As promised, this week showcases the villains of Rusty Gulch. While traditional western stories may have land barons and outlaws for antagonists, here in the post-apocalyptic sci-fi western world of Rusty Gulch, we have cyborg land barons, and robot outlaws. Yeah. We’re that cool.

Silas Cain, the Land Baron
A rich, smooth operator from back east, Silas was one of the first settlers in the region. He’s charming and charismatic, though some find his cybernetic body a bit off-putting. Silas values power above all else, and he resents Sheriff Glasser’s authority over the town of Rusty Gulch. Most evil schemes to eliminate Abbey or take over the town start in Silas Cain’s luxurious ranch office. Cain claims most of the open range outside town for his herd of mutant cattle, and often comes into conflict with other ranchers and the few farmers who work the land.

Damien Locke, the Lawyer
A quiet, oily man from back east, Locke in an expert in law (such as it is on the frontier) and human psychology. He is Silas Cain’s unflappable right hand, keeping his employer out of trouble and subtly maneuvering Cain’s enemies into weakened positions. His cool, almost mechanical exterior has led some to whisper than Locke is secretly a robot.

Rex Ten, the Robot Gang Leader
Those who say that robots have no morality have never met the evil robot Rex Ten. When his squad was destroyed in the Robot Wars, Rex Ten found himself trapped behind enemy lines. Here be began a one-bot guerrilla war, raiding the human supply lines for weapons, ammo, and energy packs. After a time, he attracted other robots to his side. Now that the war is over, he has no interest in politics, but continues raiding human settlements for supplies and the sheer joy of destruction.

Croke, Rex Ten’s Lieutenant
The assassin bot Croke worked with Rex Ten during the war. With Rex’s leadership and Croke’s ruthlessly brilliant strategy, they were able to wipe out a dozen human towns without losing a single robot under their command. The two met up again after the war, and Croke quickly assumed the position of Rex Ten’s right hand (after destroying any bot who might challenge him for the position). While he tries to keep his mind analytical and pure, Croke’s robot heart burns with hatred for all humanity.

Next Week: Could it be? Yes! We’re following up the "the Good" and the "the Bad" with "the Ugly." (It’s a great shtick, and I’d be remiss if I didn’t use it when given the opportunity.) Give me seven days, and I’ll give you another fistful of characters from the upcoming Rusty Gulch comic.