Walking the Blue Line.
Every rookie police officer knows the dangers of the job by the second week under their training officer. By the end of their training every rookie understands that there are something they can’t control, and not all crimes will be solved. Though all rookies share the same dream. Their first assignment following training. For 21 year old Officer Joe Cartwright of the Baltimore PD that dream is to be a member of the Mounted Patrol. What he got would lead to a life changing path.

Chapter 5
Return to Duty.
Downtown District Station House. 7:00 am, 4 months later.
As Josie walked through the doors of the Downtown District, she did so with a confidence that set her apart from most rookie officers. Very few newcomers to the force could match the assuredness she displayed, and even fewer would show it so openly in their stride.

The past four months had been challenging for Josie. It had taken her that long in physical therapy not just to recover, but to come to terms with the changes she was forced to deal with as a woman. Though she had been cleared to return to duty, her adjustment was ongoing. Once a week, she continued to meet with her psychologist, working through the emotional and psychological aftermath of her forced gender change.

Her struggles were compounded by the unwanted attention from the media. The press had managed to obtain her personnel records, and the situation worsened when they published her picture in connection with the Twisted Blue case. The exposure made an already difficult transition even more challenging, by adding a layer of public scrutiny to her private battles.

As she approached the lobby desk Josie noticed a young man standing off to the side holding a folder, a uniform on a hanger, and police issue duffel bag. Walking up to him Josie sit her duffel bag down and held out her hand. “Hi I’m Josie Cartwright.”

“Neil Pattrick.” He said and set down his duffle bag to shake her hand. “I’m transferring in from the Northwest district. How about you?”

“West District. Which unit are you reporting to?” Josie asked politely.

“Motor Patrol. You?” Neil answered referring to motorcycle patrol.

“I got Mounted Patrol.” Josie answered with a smile.

“I know this is going to sound corny, but you can pay me enough to put up with the horse shit of Mounted Patrol.” Neil snarked offering the oldest joke about the Horse Mounted Patrol and police work. Josie just grimaced and shook her head.

“Neil that joke is so old that it’s mummified.” Josie grunted.

“I know it’s old but still a good one.” Neil chuckled then turned thoughtful. “Don’t take this the wrong way Josie, but you look like that transgender cop.”

“Because I am the transgender cop. You got a problem with that?” Josie almost snarled.

“Not really, I just can’t believe you made it through the academy. I mean they must have been going out of their way to drive you out.” Neil told her honestly.

“Let’s just say I was already being held to higher standards than other cadets. And not just because I’m transgender. I also had to deal with my family’s reputation.” Josie told him bluntly.

“Let me guess. You come from a big cop family?” Neil asked.

“I’m fourth generation PD blue. How about you?” Josie said.

“First one in my family. Though I can understand your situation.” Neil told her.

“How so?” Josie asked him.

“I come from a big Army family. My first diaper was GI issue.” Neil joked then turned serious. “My dad expected me to join the army after high school. Instead I went to college for criminal law on a baseball scholarship. Halfway through my senior year I blew out my knee and lost my ride. After I recovered I applied to the academy. The rest as they say is history.”

“You two our transfers?” The desk Sergeant asked from behind the desk.

“Yes sir.” Joise answered and walked over to the desk. “I was told to see a Captain Mathews.” Josie told him as she handed over her transfer orders.

“Go down that hall take the third right. You’ll find Captain Mathews’ office at the end.” The Sergeant said and handed back the folder after taking out of copy of her orders.

“Thanks Sergeant.” Josie said before turning to Neil. “Maybe I’ll see on the streets.”

“Maybe.” Neil said before Josie turned and walked off. Once she was out of earshot Neil looked over at the Desk Sergeant. “At least they have her in working a publicity unit. Leaving the real police work to real cops.”

“Son I suggest you correct your fucking attitude. That little lady was working undercover before she ever completed her rookie year. Thanks to her work a major drug ring was taken down, and a serial killer that had terrorized five cities was busted.” The Desk Sergeant told Neil.

“That might true, but it was real cops who did the actual arrests.” Neil countered.

“Listen up, Officer,” the Sergeant said. “Josie Cartwright volunteered for a dangerous undercover assignment instead of returning to patrol, despite the risks. She spent over a month recovering from severe injuries in the hospital and three more on medical leave. She's earned her place here, while you're still proving yourself. Understood?” The Sergeant handed Neil his folder and a key.

“Report to Officer Daniels in the motorpol. Your locker is third from the end on the last row. Now leave my area.” As Neil walked away, he wondered what he'd done to upset the Desk Sergeant. Meanwhile, Josie was introducing herself to her new Captain.

“Excuse me sir, but are you Captain Mathews?” Josie asked form the door to his office.

“Come on in and take a seat Officer. I’ll be right with you.” The captain said as held his hand over the receiver of his desk phone. “Mr., Harper I told you that we need to have the hay here by Thursday. I understand your position sir, but you signed a contract with the city.”

“Sir tell Harper that if he doesn’t have that hay here by Thursday per his contract, you’ll call Walians Acme in Hagerstown.” Joise said without thinking.

“Walians Acme?” The captain asked before covering the receiver. “What? Oh nothing Mr. Harper. I was just talking to one of my officers. They mention something about getting his hay and feed for his personal horses from Walians Acme in Hagerstown. Well of course, we don’t want to change suppliers but if you can’t meet your delivery dates I’ll be forced to look to a more reliable contractor. Of course, see you on Thursday.”

“Arrogant asshole. If he didn’t have that damn contract I would love to call Walians Acme. But we can’t.” The captain said as he hung up the phone. Taking a deep breath he looked up a Josie. “You my new officer?”

“Yes sir.” Josie said and handed over her transfer folder. “Excuse me sir, but what was Harper’s excuse for delaying our hay?”

“Harper said his cost of delivery has gone up and can’t afford to make more than two trips per month into the city. He just doesn’t understand that we can’t store as much hay as we like because of city health codes.” The captain explained as he looked over Josie’s personnel jacket.

“Sir if Harper keeps delaying your deliveries go ahead and cancel his contract. I can get my aunt to fill our hay stores weekly.” Josie offered.

“That’s right you’re Carla North’s nephew. Sorry I mean niece. You probably don’t remember me, but I know your family Josie. Back before you were born and your parents meet I was your father’s partner. That was before your father took the transfer to Frostburg.” At Josie’s look of shock Mathews waved for her to set down.

Captain Mathews leaned forward and spoke candidly to Josie Cartwright. “Look, I’ll be honest with you, Cartwright. When I heard Josie Cartwright was being assigned to my unit, I stormed the Commissioner’s office. Not because you’re transgender, I know the truth about your situation and how you ended up here, but because I have thirty-two qualified officers for Mounted Patrol, including myself, and only twenty-six horses.” He paused for emphasis, then continued.

“That means, on any shift, I have thirteen officers on horseback and the other five riding shotgun in a patrol car. With you, that’s one more officer I have to put in a car until you’re trained for mounted duty.” Mathews’ tone grew more direct.

“To be blunt, officer, the last thing I need is a public relations officer who doesn’t even know how to ride.” He watched Josie closely, awaiting her response to his concerns about her readiness and the practical challenges of integrating her into the Mounted Patrol unit.

“I understand sir, but I think I can put your worries to rest. I already know how to ride, and I also know mounted procedures.” Josie told him with confidence.

“Care to explain that Cartwright?” Mathews asked as he sat back in his chair.

“For starters sir, I’ve been riding since I was six years old. I’ve been Eventing since I was twelve. I grew up around horses sir. Also as part of my rehab I spent the last two months with a family friend learning Mounted Patrol procedures at their farm.” Josie told him honestly.

“Who’s this family friend?” Mathews asked in bewilderment.

“Doctor Victoria Wolf, in Garette county sir.” Josie answered honestly.

“You couldn’t have found a better shrink. I take it she was the one to sign off your return to duty?” Mathews asked with a smile. Josie just nodded her head. “If that’s the case I only got one problem. It concerns the locker room.”

“About that sir. I know there will be problems with the other women in the unit, but there will be just as many problems with the men. That’s why I won’t use the showers unless I absolutely have to. So long as I never drop my panties in front of the other officers. I can guarantee that one of them will ever know what is between my legs sir.” Josie assured him. At his look of consideration Josie made him offer. “Sir if you like I can use the men’s lock room, and you can see for yourself.”

“I’ll take your word for it Cartwright. Do you have the correct uniform with you?” Mathews asked as he pointed towards Josie’s uniform.

“Yes sir. I picked everything up last week after Doctor Wolf signed off on my return to duty.” Josie told him as she stood up and showed him the dark blue breeches, uniform shirt, English riding boots, vest, winter jacket, and helmet. “I also have working breeches and paddock boots in my duffle bag. In case you want me to muck out the stalls.”

“Not today Cartwright. Go get changed into duty uniform and meet over at the motorpol.” Mathews told her as he handed her a key and piece of paper. “That’s your locker assignment. Don’t lose the key. It costs the department seventy-five dollars to replace them.”

“Yes sir.” Josie said with a smile and headed for the women’s locker room. It didn’t take her long to find her locker. As she stripped down to her lingerie another female officer entered the locker room. The woman took one look at how Josie was dressed.

“Where did you get your under breeches?” She asked.

“Website called the Lady Equestrian. They specialize in women’s equestrian wear.” Josie said as she pulled on her long sleeve base layer shirt.

“I so got to order me a few pairs. I’m Sally McGragor.” The woman said and held out her hand.

“Josie Cartwright.” Josie said as she shook the outstretched hand. Sally blinked her eyes then looked Josie up and down.

“Don’t take this the wrong way, but how could anyone ever mistake you for a boy. When did you start your transition in grade school?” Sally asked.

“Believe it or not I live as a man for twenty-three years. I even served five years in the army as an MP. I got three tours of duty in Afghanistan.” Josie told her as she pulled on her boot socks.

“Well welcome to the Mounted Patrol. Do you know who your TO is going be?” Sally asked as she stripped down to dress for patrol. Seeing Sally in just her panties and bra Josie reached into her duffle bag. Pulling out a pair of under breeches and handed them to Sally.

“Here I packed a spare set. You’ll find they smooth and support you while eliminates panty lines and boasts a seamless, gusseted crotch design for comfort.” Josie told her then added with a soft chuckle. “Don’t worry they’re brand new. I just took them out of the package this morning.”

“Damn girl. You must have been riding for a long time to know about these.” Sally said.

“Since I was a kid. As for knowing about under breeches. I learn about them from my aunt. She’s been riding for almost forty years. Oh I almost forgot. You want to wear over the calf boot socks.” Josie told her as she pulled up her uniform breeches.

“I got to say. I can already feel the deference. I can’t believe I’ve been working Mounted Patrol for two years and never heard of under breeches.” Sally said as she sat down and pulled on a second pair of boots socks.

“What’s with the second pair of socks?” Josie asked her as she pulled on her uniform shirt.

“I kind of need them. I can’t find a pair of boots in a five and a half. So I get size six and double up my socks.” Sally told her as she pulled on her uniform breeches.

“Have you tried Ariat or Dover Saddlery?” Josie asked as she tucked her shirt tail in.

“No. Do they have websites?” Sally asked as she pulled on her long sleeve base layer shirt. When Josie saw the name brand she sighed.

“Sally don’t take this the wrong way, but where the fuck have you been shopping for your base wear and other nonuniform equestrian clothing?” Josie asked as she sat down to pull on her boots.

“Harm and More uniforms. Why?” Sally asked as she pulled on her uniform shirt.

“Okay. Look I don’t mean to sound like a bitch but their the wrong people to shop for women’s equestrian clothing. How many of our female officers shop there for other than their uniforms?” Josie asked as she stood up and stamped her feet setting boots.

“All of us why?” She asked.

“Oh man. Look pass the word to the other females. Meet back here at end of shift for an all experiences paid shopping trip. I’m paying. Don’t worry I can afford the shopping spree.” Josie told her as she pulled on her winter jacket.

“You do know that there are another twelve females in the Mounted Division. Oh and that is not counting you and me. Are you sure you want to do this?” Sally asked as she pulled on her boots.

“Trust me Sally. I want to do this. Besides I can afford it. The city paid me a settlement after what happened with the press.” Josie told her as she closed her locker down.

“That was kind of fucked up. I mean you were already dealing with shit that is extremely personal on top of working undercover on the Twisted Blue case. Then that shithead reporter goes and puts your face front page center. I heard you got injured during the take of that serial killer. Is that true?” Sally asked as she secured her duty belt.

“Yes put I don’t want to talk about that, if you don’t mind. I’m still dealing with the whole mess.” Josie told her honestly as Sally pulled on her jacket.

“Sure I get that. At least you’re cop enough not to take the medical retirement like some slugs.” Sally said as she closed her locker.

“Got too much cop in me to do that.” Josie told her as they turned to leave the locker room.

“Say you never said who your TO is for Mounted Patrol.” Sally said.

“I don’t know yet. The just told me to get suited up and meet him in the motorpol.” Josie told her.

“Oh you poor soul. You must have told Skipper that you know how to ride.” Sally chuckled. “Come on. I got to get to roll call, and you need to meet up with the Skipper. Though I got to know why you would tell him you knew how to ride.”

“Well he was worried about having to train in how to ride.” Josie said before she was interrupted.

“Someone told the Skipper they could ride are they crazy?” Another female officer remarked as they approached the locker room. “Hay Sally who’s the new meat?”

“Carrie Storm meet our newest rider Josie Cartwright. The gal who’s treating the ladies of Mounted Patrol to a shopping spree at the end of shift. So be nice.” Sally told her.

“Can you at least ride?” Carrie asked Josie.

“I’ve been riding since I was six. Not just western but hunt seat was well. By the time I was twelve I competing in dressage, cross country, and showjumping.” Josie told her bluntly.

“Holy shit you were Eventing at twelve?” Carrie asked in total surprise before running into the door jam. “Oh damn it that hurt.”

“I’m just full of surprises.” Josie smirked then asked. “Which way to the motorpol?”

“Take that hall to the far end and turn right go through the double doors. See you this evening.” Carrie said as they neared the bullpen.

“Thanks. See you later.” Josie said and headed for the motorpol.

“I got twenty that says she won’t last the day.” A male Mounted Patrol officer said as he walked up to Sally and Carrie as they entered the bullpen. “Any takers?”

“Put your money away Skinner. Cartwright’s been riding since she was six. If anyone is going to be in for a hard time keeping up it’s the Skipper.” Sally told him.

“Cartwright? As in that DEI hire we got stuck with. That Cartwright?” Skinner bitched.

“Drop it Skinner. Cartwright earned their shoot with us. Besides, if anybody should have a bitch it’s us. She’s using our locker room after all.” Sally snarled.

“Wait. That hottie was a guy?” Carrie asked with a grin then turned serious. “Skinner the captain might not have given you shit birds the low down on our new rider, but he did for us. She was actually supposed to join our division three months ago. She got fucked up really bad during the take down of that serial killer. Enough that she’s been on mandatory medical leave until today.”

“You mean to tell me those rumors we’ve been hearing about him being some kind of super cop are true?” Skinner asked in surprise.

“If you’re talking about Josie Cartwright, Skinner. It’s her and yes the rumors are true. I talked with one of the Detectives that worked the Twisted Blue case with her. They had nothing but praise for the little lady. Believe me when I say she isn’t a DEI or publicity stunt. If even half of what he said is true. We’ll be the ones trying to keep up with her.” The shift Sergeant told them.

“No offence Sergeant Grady but why do we have to get stuck with the DEI hire? Why can he be happy working patrol? Better yet why not send him over to Vice to work the with the rest of the freaks? We got good cops working a desk. Let him take over one of them.” Skinner demanded.

“Skinner this is your only fucking warning. Drop the attitude or turn in your badge and gun. I mean it. Officer Cartwright more than earned her place here and in any unit. If it wasn’t for that fucking reporter she would have been give her choice on any detective squad. Now she’s stuck working patrol for the rest of her career.” Sergeant Grady snarled.

“Skinner I don’t care about your personal fucking hang ups. You give Cartwright any shit, any at all, I’ll report your ass to Professional Standards myself.” Carrie snapped.

“She isn’t the only one Skinner. Better yet. Just transfer over to another unit. We don’t need officers like you in our division.” A tall male officer snarled.

“Don’t tell me you’re on their side Harper?” Skinner asked in surprise.

“Let’s just say I’m willing to give her the chance she’s earned to be here. Unlike your sorry ass Skinner I read the case files that earned Cartwright her place in this division. I also read her file. To be blunt Skinner next to her you’re nothing more than a slug.” Harper sneered. “Now do us all a favor and turn in your badge.”

“Fine if you guys want to work with the DEI hire. Knock yourselves out. Sergeant I want a transfer.” Skinner said with a frown. “Just don’t expect backup from the real cops.”

“That’s fucking it Skinner. You just earned yourself two weeks unpaid leave. You can wait for me in my office.” Sergeant Gardy snarled.

“This is bullshit. You’ll be hearing from my rep.” Skinner snarled back.

“Go right ahead and call me, Skinner.” Another police officer said as he joined them in the bullpen area. “Only the Union won’t be supporting you. Before you bitch. There are seven other officers on unpaid leave for the same bullshit harassment against LGBTQ officers. The days of you homophobe assholes being protected by the union are over.”

“What the fuck is the world coming to when decent cops are being fucked over for the freaks we used to bust.” Skinner spat. “Well two people can play the discrimination card Yates.”

“Skinner let me give you some advice. Take the suspension and apply for a transfer to another city. Say some place out west. Because by the time the HR department gets done with you. No department will touch you with a ten foot cattle prod. If you think I bluffing talk with Hines over in the Southeast. He just lost his case.” Yates told him.

“Fine if you wanted to work with the freaks. Go right ahead with your DEI horseshit. Sooner or later you and the department will learn they’re making a mistake. I just hope it isn’t too late.” Skinner spat as he pulled off his badge and gun before setting them on the bullpen podium. Before he walked out Skinner gave one last parting shoot. “I just hope the department’s DEI policies don’t get a good cop killed before it’s too late.”

“God what an asshole. I wonder how many more there are like him in the department.” Grady sighed. As he picked up the badge and service weapon. “I hate to say about an asshole, but Skinner is a good cop. He’s just pissed off because he was passed over for Detective again. This is his third strike. He either transfers to another department or stays in patrol until there’s an open Sergeant’s position somewhere in the department other than patrol.”

“Doesn’t give him an excuse to be a fuck head Sergeant Gary.” Carrie grunted.

“Especially towards an officer who was injured in the line of duty during an undercover assignment he lacks the balls for in the first place. The kick in the head is she was outed by a leak in the department. One that damned near blew five Narcotics and two Organized Crime cases.” Gardy told the gathered officers. Looking at the time Grady shifted to business. “Okay people listen up. We got to BOLOs this morning. Both in connection to a missing persons.”

Downtown Motorpol
When Josie found Captain Mathews he was standing next to a police pickup truck with a horse trailer. As she walked up to him Josie asked. “Excuse me sir but what’s with the trailer?”

“Here’s the deal Cartwright. The Mounted Patrol patrols just over eighty square miles of parks and eleven square miles of waterways in the Baltimore area year around. That doesn’t count parade and special event duties. The safest way to get our equine partners to and from our patrol areas is by trailer. Currently we have three four-horse trailers and one two-horse trailer. So not only do you have to know how to ride but drive a pickup truck with trailer.” Mathews told her as he handed her the vehicle logbook. “Let’s see what your Patrol TO taught you.”

“Yes sir.” Josie said as she began her inspection of the truck and trailer. The first thing Josie noticed was the cracked passenger side taillight. While Officer Nolan never trained her in how to tow or hook up a trailer her father had. After checking the ball latch and chains Josie tugged on the trailer electrical hookup for the lights. With a firm shove Josie reset the lose plug. “Sir can you please turn on the lights?”

“Nice catch Cartwright. You’ve dealt with trailers before.” Mathews said with a smile.

“I dealt with my first horse trailer when I was eight sir. I lost count of the number of times I hooked up our family’s for competitions. Though it has been awhile since I last hooked up one up.” Josie told him as she walked to the rear of the trailer. “Sir do we have any spare bulbs?”

“Why?” Mathews asked in confusion as he joined her at the rear of the trailer. When he saw the dark taillight Mathews sighed. “There should be spares in the toolbox. Passenger side.”

Josie just nodded and went to check the toolbox. A few minutes later she returned with a new bulb and a Philps screwdriver. Ten minutes later the bulb was changed and the cover replaced. “Sir how often does this trailer blow taillights?”

“Why are you asking?” Mathew wondered where Josie was going.

“Simple sir. If this trailer is blowing taillights on a regular basis then we could have a short somewhere in the wiring harness. My father had a similar problem with our trailer.” Josie said.

“Then write it up in the logbook and include your suspicions.” Mathew told her. “Are you done with your walk around or is there something else you need to check?”

“As this is the first time I pulling this trailer. I want to check the inside, and the loading ramp sir. But I can do that at the stables.” Josie told him.

“Okay. Do you know how to get there?” Mathews asked as he waved for her to get in.

“Not from here sir. I can get there from my condo with my eyes shut.” Josie told him as she moved to the passenger side of the truck.

“At least you’re honest. By the way get behind the wheel. I want to see how you do actually pulling the trailer.” Mathews told he as he tossed her the keys. “Don’t worry I give good directions for an Officer. I learned how from your father.”

“Yes sir.” Josie said with a chuckle as she moved around the truck to the driver’s side. Once they were driving Mathews was impressed with Josie’s handling of the truck and trailer. As they made the trip to the stables Mathews quizzed Josie on her horse knowledge. Even when he tried to trip her up with trick questions Josie sidestepped the trap. When they finally reached the stables Mathews had one last test instore for Josie.

“Back the trailer into the load area. This is a timed proficiency test officer.” Mathews told her as he checked his watch. Josie just smiled and backed the trailer into the loading area without using the trailer mounted backup camera. “Damn. Five minutes from start to finish. That is the fastest anyone has ever maneuvered a trailer into position.”

“I told you sir. I’ve been dealing with horse trailers since I was eight. My mother may have done the road driving when my dad couldn’t make a competition, but I always parked the trailer for my mom.” Josie chuckled as she set the parking brake.

“If I didn’t know better Cartwright. I would swear you were farm raised.” Mathews chuckled as he climbed out of the truck. “Come on. I’ll introduce you to your partner for the day.”

“Yes, sir.” Josie said as she closed the door. Ten minutes later Joise was looking at a four year old Chestnut Tennessee Walker mare with a white blaze. The name on the stall door read Star Dancer. Holdin out her hand to the horse Josie talked softy to the mare. “Hello pretty lady. Want to get out of there for the day?”

“Damn. I’ve never seen Star nuzzle a hand like that before.” Mathews gasped. “She normally bits people when she first meets them like this.”

“Root beer candy drops work wonders with temperamental mares and fillies.” Josie chuckled as she held out a handful of the aforementioned hard brown candies.

“That is playing dirty Officer Cartwright.” Mathews chuckled. “But I can’t fault you. Who told you about the Star Dancer test?”

“The test has been around for years sir. The Mounted Patrol has been testing newbies with the most unpredictable horse in the stables at the time. Though I do have a question sir. I can tell that this stable is big enough to house forty horses. Why do we only have twenty-six horses?” Josie asked as she pulled open the stall door.

“Reality check time, Cartwright. Currently the Mounted Division is being kept afloat with donations from privet citizens. As such we don’t have the funds for our full complement. We made be one of the oldest Mounted patrol units in America, but our budget keeps getting slimmer and slimmer every year.” Mathews said as he opened the next stall and stepped inside.

“Excuse me sir. Is that why we’re having to pay for our uniforms, boots, and helmets out of our own pockets?” Josie asked she took a curry brush to Star Dancer.

“Pretty much Cartwright. I would give my eye teeth to see all these stalls filled once more.” Mathews told her as he brushed down his own mount.

“Sir, how many of the female officers were trained to ride by you?” Josie asked out of the blue.

“Of the twelve female officers not counting you under my command. I trained ten of them. Only Lieutenant Sarah Albertson and Sergeant Angie Stone on second shift were trained by my predecessor. Why are you asking?” Mathews asked her.

“Well sir, while I was changing that Sally McGragor and Carrie Storm were missing certain personal items that should be part of their uniform. Not so much for appearances but comfort during their duty shift.” Josie told him as she slipped Star Dancer’s bridle over her head. “Good girl, you’re not so mean are you?”

“Did you just get Star Dance to take her bit without getting bit yourself?” Mathews asked from his stall in total surprise. When Josie nodded Mathews chuckled. “I can’t wait to see you ride.”

“Why do you say that sir?” Josie asked as she attached a lead rope to the bridle.

“Because in the last half hour you have shown more horsemanship than every officer in the unit and that includes me. It’s like you were born in the saddle as they used to say.” Mathews told her.

“They still say that in parts of Maryland sir.” Josie chuckled as she tied Star Dancer to a hitching ring outside the stall. “Do we have time to much the stalls sir?”

“That’s next in our daily duties Cartwright.” Mathews answered as he led his own mount out of its stall. When Josie saw the midnight black stallion she felt a stab of jealousy. The Morgan was big for the breed standing a good 17 hands high. A full hand taller than a normal Morgan. “Meet Sky Warrior, Cartwright. The second most temperamental horse in the stable.”

“Which one is the most temperamental, sir?” Josie asked as she took a pitchfork and went to work cleaning out Star Dancer’s stall.

“You’re riding her for today. If you can handle Star through a full shift. I’ll keep you off the regular patrol rotation.” Mathews told her honestly.

“Understood sir. Though I do have one question.” Josie said.

“What do you need to know?” Mathews asked.

“Where’s the wheelbarrow?” Josie asked earning a laugh from Mathews. Over the next half hour as they muck out the stalls the rest of the Mounted officers for the shift arrived. Because they didn’t attend morning roll call Mathews and Josie were the first ones out of the stables. This time Mathews drove the truck. While Josie tried not to show it, Mathews driving scared the shit out of her. When they reached the parking area for Herring Run Park she practically kissed the ground when she got out of the truck. Turning to face her Captain Josie said. “No offence sir, but who the fuck taught you how to drive?”

“I’m not that bad.” Mathews countered then asked. “Is that any way to talk to a superior officer?”

“Sir please don’t take this the wrong way, but I could feel our mounts kicking the trailer ramp.” Josie joked as she moved the rear of the trailer.

“Okay I’ll confess. It’s been a while since I last pulled a trailer. I normally work the downtown beat and let one of the others drive while I do paperwork.” Mathews told her then chuckles at the look she gave him. “I guess what they say about certain skills getting rusty if you don’t use them. I think it’s been almost four years since I last drove one of the rigs.”

“Sir, please don’t take this the wrong way, but I’ll drive back to the stables at end of shift.” Josie told him with a grin as she lowered the ramp. “At least we don’t have to report damage to the ramp. These babies can cost an arm and leg to replace.”

“Sounds like hard earned experience Cartwright. That and a story.” Mathews said as he entered the trailer to get Sky Warrior out first.

“You could say that sir. Back when I was sixteen my mother loaded my horse after a Four-H show. Like a fool I didn’t check the ramp latches. Halfway back to my Aunt’s farm the ramp dropped. By the time I got pulled over I had dragged the ramp for three quarters of a mile. I had to work a shit load of overtime to replace the ramp.” Josie said as she backed Star Dancer down the ramp. After tying her to the side of the tailer Josie went to the truck bed for her saddle, saddle pad, and the girth. It didn’t take her long to have Star Dancer saddled and ready to ride. While Mathews was saddling Sky Warrior Josie closed the ramp and secured the truck. “Sir do we leave the rig here until the end of our shift?”

“Yes. That’s why we parked at the far end of the lot. Remember when I said we have ninety plus square miles of land and waterways to patrol. This is one of the largest areas we patrol. We cover everything from Hall Spring down to I-eight-ninety-five. That’s three-hundred-and-seventy-five acres of urban woodland and covers two point three miles of the Herring Run stream.” Mathews told her as he mounted his horse.

“That’s a lot of area to cover sir for just two officers.” Josie said as she mounted up.

“That’s why the second mounted patrol is at the South end of the park. As we work our way south along the eastern half they work their way north on the western side. We ride a circular route through the park. This way there is always somebody patrolling the parks. Only the midnight shift doesn’t have a mounted patrol working the parks.” Mathew explained.

“Is it a lack of funding sir or lack of resources?” Josie asked as she thought about her settlement.

“Both really. I’m currently working on a grant proposal. If it comes through I’ll be able to add twelve more horses, two more rigs, and get the rest of the unit out of patrol cars.” Mathews said as they headed for the first park trail. “We follow the trails but stay off of them as much as possible during our patrol.”

“Yes sir, about how many miles is that?” Josie asked him.

“Between the loop, park, horse, and running trails, just under ten miles. In this park alone. When I add in all the other parks with their trails. It comes to just over fifty-eight miles. The Baltimore Greenway Trails Network will expand that by adding another forty-eight miles. That means more foot and bike patrols if the Mounted unit is ever shut down.” Mathews told her as he led the way along the park’s walking trail. As they rode Josie noticed that most of the people using the trail at this time of the day were either jogging or walking.

“Sir, I know this is going to sound like a stupid question. Why are we patrolling the park at this time of the day?” Josie asked him.

“Two reasons. First is to actually keep the morning exercisers safe. The prime time for park muggings is between seven and eight am. Number one targets of those muggings is joggers and walkers. Reason two is this is when most dumped bodies are found. Usually by a some walker’s dog. When the body is found in the parks we’re usually the first unit to respond.” Mathews told her as he led her a little further away from the trail towards the Herring Run waterway. “One of our main concerns during our first sweep of the parks is the waterways.”

“Why’s that sir?” Josie asked as they neared the stream.

“We want to be on the lookout for bodies. Waterways are favorite dumping grounds for criminals. And not just serial killers. Drug dealers, hired hitters, you name it, even your first time murderer knows that water is a great counter forensic measure. By the time a body fills with gas and starts to float most DNA, and physical evidence has washed away.” Mathews told her bluntly.

“So we’re looking for bodies before some nature lover finds them?” Josie asked as they rode.

“That and any signs of people screwing with the herring nests. Don’t forget the waterways are protected zones.” Mathews said with a smile before adding. “And dropping bodies into them is considered an act of illegal dumping.”

“Uuuhhhggg. That was bad sir. I talking that’s a Dad level joke.” Josie groaned before chuckling.

“What can I say. I got a thirteen, eleven, and seven year old at home. All my jokes are dad jokes.” Mathews told her with a grin before turning serious. “Cartwright I got to ask. Why didn’t you take your settlement from the city and run?”

“Because this is all I know sir. Seeing as how you know about the settlement, I assume you know the deal I struck with Downtown and the FBI?” Josie said only to see Mathews nod.

“I know the whole story Josie. I hope you don’t mind me calling you Josie?” Mathews asked.

“No sir. If you’re keeping my secret then I guess I can allow you that.” Josie sighed then asked him. “Just how much were you told by your source?”

“That you really aren’t transgender in the normal sense. From what the Chief of Ds told me. You were a normal rookie. Close to the top of your class, good performance in the field, were twenty days shy of completing your rookie year when the tasking came down. You went undercover using some new kind of tech. Tech that was so good it let you pass as a real trans girl. Then during the second night of your uc assignment something happen. From what I understand you were roofied and then attacked by a serial killer. I was told you spent the next twelve days in a coma, and something went wrong with the tech that helped you go undercover. I don’t know what went wrong with the tech, but I was told it screwed with your body big time.” Mathews told her.

“Then you know that used to be Joe Cartwright. As for what went wrong that is hard to explain. The tech that was used was supposed to be temporary.” Josie told him then went on to explain about how the Twisted Blue and electrical shock from the modified taser reacted with the bio-adaptive cosmetics and structural modification systems. By the time Josie finished with her explanation Mathews could tell there was more to the story.

“What aren’t you tell me Josie?” Mathews asked politely.

“A whole lot sir. Before you ask, sir. I’m under an NDA concerning what I can tell you and what I can’t.” Joise told him honestly.

“Understandable. I take it part of your NDA concerns the tech that was used?” Mathews asked.

“Yes sir. There are currently several undercover operations underway that are using the tech.” Josie told him as she guided Star Dancer around a bolder.

“Understandable. No need to endanger UCs. Though I do have to ask. Are they aware of a possible repeat of your situation?” Mathews asked her.

“They are. Though from what I understand my situation was a one in a million convergence.” Josie answered with a frown.

“From the look on your face. You’re wishing you knew about the risk beforehand.” Mathews said as he guided them away from the water’s edge and back towards the trail.

“Let’s just say I’ve been remind of that old military saying. Never volunteer. Even for KP.” Josie joked as they spotted a group of early morning walkers. “Do the elderly normally use the trails?”

“There’re several Assessed Living Centers that bring the more able residents to the park during the spring, summer, and fall. Though sometimes they bring them during the winter when the weather isn’t too cold, the sun is out, and the trails are clear. Days like today. Speaking of bad weather. We still patrol the parks and waterways during inclement weather. Especially during snowstorms. Though we usually move over to the streets and patrol the less traveled areas.” Mathews told her as they passed the elderly walkers. “Morning folks nice day for a walk.”

“Morning Captain Mathews. Who’s the newbie?” One woman asked him with a smile.

“Morning Mrs. Wells. This is Officer Cartwright. She just joined my unit today.” Mathews said as he reigned Sky Warrior to a stop.

“Morning ma’am.” Josie said as reigned in Star Dancer.

“You must really know your horses young lady. You’re the first officer we’ve seen riding Star Dancer in three years. I think the last person to ride that mare was Sergeant Ben Atlas.” Another old woman said as she reached up and stroked Star’s muzzle. “Good morning Star. You being a good girl for your new rider?”

“In more ways than one, Mrs. Henshaw. Star didn’t even take her customary nibble.” Mathews chuckled bring startled gasps from the old ladies. “Cartwright allow me to introduce the Blue and Gray Society. Everyone here is or was married to a cop. In some cases, both. Like Mrs. Henshaw here. They are also some of our biggest supports.”

“More than that later dear. We’re also part of the Police Auxiliary. We take care of fund raising events and making sure the annual Police Ball happens without any problems.” Mrs. Wells said as she took something from her pocket and held out her hand to Star. The mare quickly, yet very gently, took the sweet from the old woman’s hand. Though mare wasn’t fast enough that Josie didn’t see the small brown hard candy.

“So you’re the one who got her hook.” Josie laughed.

“Don’t blame me young lady. We all know about Star’s love for root beer candies. If you want to blame anyone blame her former rider Ben Atlas. You’ll find him over in the South District Homicide division. You can’t miss him. Tall red head, green eyes, and goes through a pack of Bazoka Joe bubble pre shift.” Mrs. Wells chuckled as she pushed Star’s muzzle back. “Sorry greedy guts. That’s all I got today. I was expecting to see you out and about.”

“Well she wasn’t on the rotation Mrs. Wells. As it is Star Dancer is due to retire at the end of the month. I figured Officer Cartwright could be her last rider.” Mathews said as Star tossed her head.

“How does she rate the retirement horse Tim?” An old man asked him. then held out his hand to Josie. “Captain Jake Slone I retired out of the Northern District.”

“Josie Cartwright newly assigned to the Mounter division. Pleasure to meet you Captain.” Josie said as she leaned down and shook his hand.

“How’s the leg Jake?” Mathews asked him.

“I have my good days. You still haven’t answered my question Tim.” Slone said as they shook.

“Let’s just say that of all the riders currently under my command. Cartwright is probably the most overqualified officer for mounted patrol. From what her Aunt Carla told me. She’s been riding horses since she was six years old and competing since she was twelve.” Mathews chuckled. “The only thing I need to teach is proper procedure for a mount patrol.”

“If her aunt is who I think it is Tim. You won’t have too much to teach.” Jake chuckled. They would have continued to talk with the walkers, but a radio call would call them away.

“Ten-Mike-two-hundred see the man at the East end of Montebello Lake for a possible ten-eighty-nine.” The dispatcher called.

“Copy. Show Ten-Mike-one-hundred and Ten-Mike-fourteen responding.” Mathews said into his radio before turning to Josie. “Okay rookie time to get your feet wet.”

“Hope you can keep up sir?” Josie said with a grin and wheeled Star Dancer in place. Before she spurred the mare Josie tipped her helmet towards the walkers. “Ladies and gentlemen it’s been a pleasure. I hope to see you again.”

As she took off at a high lope Jake Slone turned to Mathews. “Tim I think you just found your replacement for Adams. She’s a spitfire.”

“Yah she is. Look I got to go. See you on Friday.” With that Mathews spurred his horse into a gallop to catch up with Josie. As soon as he did Josie moved Star Dancer into a gallop. Mathews was amazed at not only her skill but the confidence she showed as she rode through the woods towards the lake at the other end of the park. By the time they reached the lake Mathews knew that Josie would be his newest patrol officer.

It didn’t take them long to find the gentleman in question. The possible bomb turned out to be a lost backpack, but they still followed procedure and called for the bomb squad. An hour later the backpack was secured by the bomb squad, and they were back to their patrol. Josie was surprised when the Captain called them out of service at just after one. With a smile Mathews led her out of the park to a nearby McD’s just outside the southern end of the park. Josie had to laugh when Mathews led her through the drive through to place their order. After a lunch of hamburgers, fries, and shakes the two mounted officers returned to their patrol.

“Sir I have to ask. Does that McDs always make you go through the drive through?” Josie asked.

“Only on days that end in y.” Mathews chuckled as they returned to the park.

-----tbc-----