Vernon Cooper

## Early Life

Born in 1867, Vernon Cooper grew up amidst the rugged beauty of the Wild West, alongside his younger brother Robert. The brothers shared their formative years on their family ranch, a place where their personalities were shaped by wide open spaces and the call of the wilderness. While Robert was pragmatic and grounded, Vernon’s soul always seemed to drift along the currents of thoughts that went beyond the confines of the ranch.

As a teenager, Vernon’s life took an unexpected turn when his uncle introduced him, his father, and his brother to the wonders of the untamed outdoors during a long camping and hunting expedition. That experience lit a fire within Vernon, igniting a lifelong passion for the wilderness. The call of the open lands, the thrill of adventure, and the harmonious rhythm of nature had a grip on him that would never let go.

When it came to ranching, Vernon was barely a capable hand, always daydreaming of exploring and navigating the great unknown. Vernon was a good son, and a kind brother, but he was never truly captivated by the ranching life. His mind seemed to wander beyond fences and cattle, drawn to the untouched horizons that whispered promises of discovery and freedom.

Despite his wanderlust, Vernon retained a strong bond with his family, especially his younger brother Robert. It was clear to his parents that while he might have been an excellent rancher, his true passion lay in the wild places that existed beyond the family land. So, when the time came to decide who to pass down the ranching legacy to, it was Robert who was set to inherit the responsibility.

Vernon’s life took another unexpected turn when he met Evelyn, a close friend of Maribeth’s. Evelyn’s soul resonated with his own longing for adventure and exploration. She shared his passion for the wilderness and art, and their connection was instantaneous. Their shared interests soon blossomed into love, leading to their marriage and the birth of a daughter.

They settled into a cozy cabin nestled within the woods, away from the bustling town. Vernon found his calling as a guide, leading intrepid souls through the rugged terrain he cherished so dearly. During his excursions, Evelyn and their daughter would find refuge at the ranch, becoming an extended part of the family. The cabin echoed with laughter, love, and the dreams of a future together.

However, tragedy’s shadow eventually fell upon Vernon’s idyllic life. During one of his extended trips into the wilderness, a merciless fire engulfed the ranch. The inferno claimed the lives of his beloved wife Evelyn and their daughter. The devastation left Vernon’s heart shattered, his dreams reduced to ashes.

Stricken with grief, Vernon struggled to find meaning in a world that had turned cruel. He grappled with the emptiness that had replaced his once vibrant life. The wilderness, which had once been his solace, now seemed to reflect his inner turmoil.

## Ruthless County

As he navigated his grief, Vernon’s path intertwined with Robert and Maribeth’s. He was drawn to their determination, their shared dream of starting anew in a different land. The fire within him might have dimmed, but the brothers’ bond remained as unbreakable as ever. Respectful of their aspirations, and perhaps seeking a fresh purpose for himself, Vernon decided to join them on their journey.

Together, the trio embarked on a new adventure, seeking solace and purpose in the vast expanse of the untamed West. For Vernon, the goal was less defined than that of his companions. His heart still ached for the family he had lost, but he also recognized the need to heal and find his place once again.

As they forged ahead, navigating the unknown with resilience, Vernon’s presence brought a sense of grounded wisdom to the trio. His connection to the wilderness, once a source of boundless enthusiasm, now held echoes of bittersweet memories. Yet, the determination that had fueled his previous life still lingered, intertwined with the promise of a future that was yet to be discovered.

## Relationships

* Brother to Robert Cooper
* Brother-in-law to Maribeth Cooper