Him Who Made The Seven Stars
By
Waddie Greywolf
Chapter
57
"It's worth noting that time really doesn't exist. There is
no such thing as a second, minute, hour, day, year, and so on.
We've invented these measurements to help orient our world and
ourselves. As Einstein noted, the experience of time depends
entirely on the perspective of the observer. For those of us
who are older, time seems to fly by at blazing speed. But when
you are young, it seems to stand still, as if the sun were
suspended in the sky on a perfect summer day." ~ Mark Siegel
Harlen slept like a baby. It was one of the best night's sleep he
had in years, but when he woke up it was still dark outside. He
awoke with a jolt. Something of a good size jumped in bed with
him. Before his mind cleared, and Harlen could take his bearings,
he thought it might be one of his dogs, but as his memory came
flooding back, he realized he wasn't at home. He heard a small
male voice speak just above a whisper, "Master Harlen! Wake up,
Buddy!" it said.
"Bossman?" he asked, sitting up looking at the boy in the middle
of his bed, "What time is it? What's the matter, Son?" he asked.
"Yes, sir, it's me. It's a little past five. On weekends ever'
body sleeps in 'til six, but we got trouble, Master Harlen. You
need to get up. Master Billy, Boomer, and Captain Nick are on
their way. Clyde's git'n dressed, and laying out my clothes for
me. We got to go through the gate to your place. I got a tickle
from Chloe. Daffy's unconscious. His hip went out again, and it
hurt him so bad, he passed out on the back walkway. I told Chloe to go get Master Jessie, but she's afraid
to leave him alone. I done told her to bark real loud to wake
Jessie up," Randy said.
Harlen grabbed Randy, gave him a big hug, and kissed him on his
forehead. "Thanks, Son, I'll get dressed. Run get your clothes on.
I'll meet you and Clyde downstairs," Harlen said.
Randy jumped off the bed, headed for the door, stopped, turned,
and stood for a minute, "Don't worry none, Brother Harlen, we
won't let nothing bad happen to Daffy," he said.
"Thanks, Son. I trust you and your big brother," Harlen replied
and smiled.
Harlen turned on the lamp by the bed, got up, and started dressing
immediately. He knew Daffy was getting bad, but he didn't realize
how far the big male dog's condition progressed. It's difficult to
tell with a degenerative joint disease,
especially when he seemed to be responding well to the cortisone
injections. Did he wait too long? Jessie tried to talk with Harlen
several times about the possibility of putting Daffy down, but he
kept putting it off. He just didn't have the heart or the will to
discuss the matter. He wasn't ready to deal with the reality of
losing one of his beloved pets. He thought it was probably
cowardice on his part. Humans more readily accept advancing age in
their own kind, and when they've run their course, it only seems
natural for them to pass-on; shed their mortal coil; no more
suffering; the trials and travails of this life past; gone to a
better place; to rejoined lost family and friends; resting upon
the bosom of Christ; in the arms of God; dancing with the Holy
Ghost; rest in peace; carousel; however, with a beloved pet, it's
something we put off until there is absolutely no other option.
Afterward, we torment ourselves with regret we didn't do it sooner
wondering if we might have saved our beloved friend some pain or
suffering. Harlen was dressed, took out his cell phone, and
punched Jessie's number. It rang twice and Harlen heard his main
man's voice, "I'm here, Boss. What's up?" Jessie
said like he was just arousing from a deep sleep.
Harlen could hear
Chloe barking in the background. "It's
Daffy, Jess, he passed out on the way back from a visit to their
dumping grounds. His hip went out. Chloe tickled Bossman Randy. He
told her to get you, but she refused to leave Daffy. Randy told
her to bark to get your attention. I can hear her," Harlen said.
"I didn't think about it. They often bark at a skunk, possums, or
raccoons. When they get bored, or the critter goes away, they come
back inside. I'll get dressed and go out there, but we're
completely out of cortisone, Boss. I gave him the last shot a
couple of days ago. One usually lasts him a couple of weeks. I
didn't think we'd need more until after the weekend," Jessie said
with remorse.
"T'ain't chore' fault, Jones. Don't do a number on yourself. Don't
try to move him. Just give Chloe some encouragement, and tell her
we'll be right there. See you in a few, Buddy," Harlen said and
broke contact. By the time Harlen got downstairs, Randy, Clyde,
and the large black man were waiting for him in the front hallway.
Kate was there in her nightgown and robe. "What's going on,
Gentlemen?" she asked.
Clyde gave the Bossman a gentle push with his hand to explain. "We
done got us an emergency, Mistress Kate, ma'am, one of Master
Harlen's big cow dog's hip went out and he's unconscious. Big
Brother, Captain Nick, and Boomer are meeting us in the compound,
and we's gate'n-it over to Master Harlen's place. We'll be back in
a bit. We won't be long," Randy assured her.
"If you're going to be later than eight, give me a call," Kate
said.
"Will do, Ms. Kate," Randy said and the men left to join the
others waiting outside.
Billy waved to him from the entry to the newer barn. Captain Nick
and Boomer were standing next to him. Boomer had the anti-grav
gurney in front of him sitting in mid-air.
"What the hell is that, Bossman?" Harlen asked.
"An anti-gravity gurney for transporting people or dogs. It's a
great tool to have. As big as you are, if you were down and
couldn't get up, I could adjust it to the ground, roll you onto
it, raise it about waist high, and take you anywhere, pushing it
with one finger," Randy explained.
"Amazing," Harlen said.
As they were walking toward the men and Boomer, there was a great
flash of light, and two cowboy-angels appeared next to Billy and
his immediate family. It was Oatie Breedlove and Jethro Quince.
"My God, they called up the reserves," Harlen said quietly.
"Not really, sir, Master Billy just thought our
family-veterinarian might be nice to have on-board with us. Oatie
and Jethro don't mind. They'd do anything for an animal in
distress, sir," Randy said.
"That tells me a lot about these men, Son," Harlen said.
Randy opened a gate to Harlen's place, and a blue wall of rippling
free-electrons sprang up. Chloe barked and ran for the gate when
she saw it. Randy was the first through. The big female dog was
there to greet him, smothering him with
love, and big, wet, doggie kisses. Chloe was so happy to see
Randy. Her new friend came through for her. Somehow, she knew he
would. << Master Randy, thank you for coming and bringing
help. I'm so worried about my mate, >> she sent among the
endless kisses.
"There, there! He'll be all right, Chloe. Master Billy and his
cowboy-angels will fix him up like new. They'll do the same for
you and make you feel young again," Randy said out-loud.
Jessie was just coming out of the house and walking down the back
stairs when he saw the gate spring up and the men come through. He
saw Chloe welcoming Randy, and the other men followed right behind
him; two were cowboy-angels complete with
their handsome wings. The larger cowboy had a ring through his
nose. Jessie never saw a more beautiful sight, but there was more.
Following Billy Daniels was another, older and a younger cowboy
with a ring through their noses, and a huge black man with a ring
through his nose as well. Following them, pushing some kind of
flat device, was a Bigfoot monster; only, Jessie didn't think he
looked like a monster at all. He was really quite handsome and his
auburn to golden-red hair swirled around him in the early morning
breeze. Jessie's heart leaped to his throat. He was stunned to say
the least.
Billy and Oatie went to where Daffy was lying. Without a word,
Billy ripped off his shirt, and motioned for Captain Nick and
Balthazar to do the same. In a great flash of light they
disappeared for a second then reappeared fully fledged with their
resplendent wings. Jessie was even more impressed. The five
cowboy-angels knelt around Daffy and raised their wings. Jessie
came to Harlen's side and stood next to him. They watched in awe
as the men gathered the life-essence of the ether onto
their wings and began to channel it to Master Billy. A
concentrated beam of blue light emanated from Billy's hands as he
move them slowly back and forth over Daffy's body.
"What are they doing, Bossman?" Jessie asked quietly.
"They're drawing the particles of the living life-force plasma
from the universe, and passing it on to give Daffy strength and
take away his pain. He'll still be paralyzed when they stop, but
it will be because my big brother wants him that way. We're gonna'
put him on the gurney Boomer brought and take him back to our
ranch so's my big brother and Doc Oatie can taste his blood,
absorb his DNA information, and repair him. Billy don't want him
moving about or trying to jump down off the gurney. It might hurt
him worse than he is now, and it would just make their job more
difficult. We'll take Chloe with us. Oatie and Billy will want to
rejuvenate her, too. Mister Jones, you might as well come along
and have breakfast with us. That way, we won't have to make
another trip to gather you," Randy said.
"What do you think, Boss?" Jessie asked Harlen.
"I think the Bossman has a good idea. We can call Cookie and tell
him to wake Handy. The two of them can take care of the place
while we're gone. Are you ready?" Harlen asked.
"Yes, sir, I set these clothes out before I went to bed last
night," Jessie said and tipped his big hat.
"You look fine to me. You make a damn good looking buckaroo when
you git chore'self all gussied up, Jones. You'll fit right in at
the Daniels' ranch," Harlen said and patted Jessie on the back.
The men powered down and relaxed their beautiful wings. Billy
gently shook Daffy. "Daffy, it's your friend, Master Billy.
Bossman Randy's here, too. Open your eyes, Daffy," Billy said
out-loud. Daffy slowly opened his eyes and blinked a couple of
times. "Don't try to move, Daffy. I shut down your body so you
won't feel any pain. I don't want you moving about because we're
gonna' put you on a gurney and take you, Chloe, and your two
masters to our ranch where we can work on you and make you like
new. Tickle my mind if you understand, Daffy," Billy said.
<< I hear you, Master Billy. I don't feel any pain. Thank
you, >> Daffy sent.
Chloe barked and wagged her tail. She seemed happy. "She heard
Daffy tell me he don't feel no pain," Billy explained to Harlen
and Jessie, "Now, we're gonna' lift you onto our gurney," Billy
said aloud to Daffy so everyone could hear.
Boomer pressed the 'down' button on the side of the gurney, and it
lowered to the ground beside Daffy. They didn't pick Daffy up. The
men slowly levitated the huge dog onto the gurney and allowed him
to settle gently upon it. Boomer pressed the up button, and it
instantly rose to waist high. They were ready.
"Should I contact Cookie before we leave, Boss?" Jessie asked
Harlen.
"Naw, let him sleep. We're ready to go. The less Cookie and Handy
see, the less we have to explain right now," Harlen said.
"I understand, and you're right, I'm ready. This is better than
any of them sci-fi programs or books I read. I wouldn't miss this
for the world," Jessie said.
Chloe was a little shy about going through the gate, but after she
saw Boomer go through pushing the gurney with her mate on it, she
looked up at Billy and Randy, and then to her master. "It's all
right, Chloe! Go! We'll be right behind you," Harlen said pointing
to the gate.
Without further encouragement, Chloe lowered
her head and walked through the wall of excited electrons. She was amazed. She was in another part of
the state, far away from her home, and the smells of nature,
cattle, and a thousand other intoxicating new odors to investigate
were exhilarating. She slowly walked toward the huge creature who
was holding the gurney steady on which her mate rested. <<
Don't be afraid of me, little Sister. I will not harm you or your
mate. I am Master Billy's bonded mate and husband, >> Boomer
sent.
Chloe barked once like she understood his words and continued
toward the gurney to be near her mate. The rest of the men
followed them through the gate and Randy closed it behind them.
Randy was carrying the shirts of his big brother, Captain Nick,
Balthazar, and Clyde. They were home on the ranch and didn't need
to morph back to their cowboy form. They proceeded directly to the
slave processing room where most of their medical equipment was in
place. The cowboy-angels gently transferred Daffy to the table and
proceeded to work on him. Billy explained everything he and Doc
Oatie were planning to do for Daffy.
Oatie handed Billy a small syringe. He spoke directly to the large
dog, "Daffy, we have to take a few drops of your blood to taste.
When Doc Oatie and I taste your and Chloe's blood, it will cause
us to become brothers with you, we will understand what's wrong,
and be able to correct it. We will be able to heal you and reverse
your aging process. I have disconnected your pain receptors so you
shouldn't feel me prick your skin to draw a small amount of
blood," Billy carefully explained in a quiet reaffirming voice. He
took a pair of battery operated clippers and quickly removed a
square patch of Daffy's hair about the size of a postage stamp to
expose a small area of skin on his leg. Oatie handed him a cotton
swab saturated with alcohol and betadine. Billy swabbed the area,
took the syringe and gently removed about one cc of Daffy's blood.
He squirted a small amount on Oatie's finger and did the same to
his finger. They simply tasted Daffy's
blood and within seconds had his information stored within them.
Harlen and Jessie were in awe.
Oatie took over at that point and moved to Daffy's side. "Hello,
Daffy. I'm Doctor Oatie Breedlove. I'm Master Billy's brother. I'm
an animal doctor. Just relax and we'll view some pictures of you
to see what we need to do," he said. Oatie waved his hand and a
large flat three-dimensional screen appeared over the table. On
the screen you could see the outline of Daffy's big body, but it
was looking past the skin into the inner-workings. Oatie made a
couple of adjustments, and they got a perfect view of Daffy's hip.
The socket and ball joint were seriously degenerated and Billy
commented it was a wonder the poor thing was able to get around at
all. Harlen and Jessie could see the damage. It was massive.
"Cost is no problem. Can you help him, Master Billy?" Harlen said.
"Cost? What cost? Who said anything about costs? Have you done
gone behind my back and created a billing department, Bossman?"
Billy asked sternly.
Randy broke up. When Billy got silly, he reduced Randy to a
quivering mass of giggles. "You know I'd never do nothing like
that, Brother, without your permission," he replied
"Good. Just checking," Billy said, then turned his attention back
to Harlen, "Now, you gotta' understand, Brother, we can refurbish
Daffy and Chloe to about the age of three to five years old, but
you being their master, must set what amounts to an expiration
date for them. We can alter their DNA to give them extra added
value. I won't give them wings, but oral communication can be a
great plus for large animals," Billy said, "I can also give them a
couple of extras I can't begin to explain to you, but it will make
them even more valuable," Billy added.
"How do you set an expiration date for someone you love?" Harlen
asked.
"There are limits. The most we can get out of them is
approximately three hundred years. Will that be enough?" Billy
asked.
"I think that should be sufficient," Harlen replied and grinned.
"Daffy ain't been neutered. Did you have Chloe fixed?" Billy
asked.
"Yes, we had her fixed after her second heat, but I regretted
never allowing them to have a litter," Harlen said.
"We can fix that, too. They can have a couple of litters, then we
can turn off her fertility without invasive surgery. She will
remain receptive for her mate, but she won't get pregnant," Billy
said.
"Will the pups inherit any genetic changes?" Jessie asked.
"Absolutely," Billy replied and smiled.
"About the other enhancement " Harlen said and looked at Jessie.
"Speech might be nice, Boss," Jessie said.
Chloe barked sharply. There was no mistaking she was confirming
what Jessie said. Harlen laughed. "You have your answer, sir," he
said and grinned at Billy.
As they stood around talking, more cowboy-angels appeared in
flashes of light in the room. Elmer Breedlove and Vox; Hank and
Buck; Will and Buster Tate with Everett and Miranda; Garth-el and
Macker-el; Bubba Kirkendall and Jack McCormack; Etienne and Ray
Escobar; Tron and Nathan; Moss and Enoch; Tom McMartin, and Grover
Parsnip. Miranda made a bee-line to Master Harlen and looked Chloe
up and down. "You're awful big to be a cow dog. Welcome to the
family, Lady," Miranda said in perfect English. Harlen watched the
look on Jessie's face and laughed. Chloe barked at Miranda and
lowered herself to her stomach to make herself smaller. They
became friends immediately. Miranda lay down next to Chloe in
sympathy for her anxiety for her mate.
"No wings, Master Billy," Harlen said shaking his head. He
remember the confusion the pups created flying around everyone's
heads and could only imagine pups the size of small piglets flying
around getting into trouble.
"No wings it is, sir," Billy agreed.
"The cowboy-angels led by Billy and Oatie banded together to draw
as much energy as the men needed to repair and refurbish the big
dog lying on the table. It took them about an hour and they moved
him to a soft bed to recover. Billy didn't release Daffy from his
suspended state. He wanted the big dog to have a chance for
everything to come together. They got Chloe on the table and did
the same rejuvenation procedure for her plus enhancements they did
for Daffy. They reconnected Chloe's plumbing. Once again she was
capable of going into heat, and she would be able to conceive. She
was in better physical shape than Daffy, and it didn't take the
men as long to complete their work on her. The animals were lying
together awake and aware, but unable to move about. It was getting
on toward breakfast time, and the men finished up just about the
time Kate went to the porch to ring the triangle. Billy wanted to
leave them alone to relax and give their bodies time to adjust. He
put Daffy and Chloe into a deep sleep, and they were out like a
light, breathing normally.
"We need someone to stay and watch over them," Billy said as Oatie
checked each big dog's heart and respiration.
"I'll stay with them, Master Billy," Miranda spoke, "Brother
Everett done already fed me this morning shortly before we
transported over here," she said.
"Good Girl. You may tickle Everett, me, Doc Oatie, or Bossman
Randy if you notice any difference in their breathing, or if they
seem to be in distress. They should sleep just fine. By the way,
who's taking care of your pups, little mother?" Billy asked.
"Catfish and Mouse. They were kind enough
to let me come by myself to take a sanity break from my dear
little angels," Miranda said sarcastically and laughed. She
broke-up every man in the room.
"All right then, we shouldn't be gone more than an hour, and I'll
bring you a plate of scraps if you like," Billy said.
"You spoil me, Master Billy," Miranda said shamelessly flirting
with him.
"You deserve to be spoiled, little mother, after what I done put
you through with the enhancements to them pups," Billy replied and
laughed, "It seemed like a good idea at
the time," he added.
"If you learned a lesson, it was worth it, sir," Miranda said
wisely.
"I did, indeed, pretty lady never give wings to rambunctious
puppies," Billy said firmly and smiled.
"Do you really think I'm pretty, Master Billy?" Miranda asked and
batted her eyes at him.
"Ain't no doubt in this cowboy's mind, ma'am, you're one of the
prettiest cow dogs I done ever' seen," Billy replied, took off his
big hat, made a sweeping gesture with it, and bowed to the small
winged cow dog. There was a smile on every face in the
room.
Jessie was going to stay behind with Miranda, but Billy and Oatie
assured him Miranda would be fine with them. Harlen encouraged
Jessie to join them for breakfast. Boomer and Brute said they
would go with them to the house, get their chow and biscuit,
return to the processing room to eat, and keep watch over Daffy
and Chloe with Ms. Miranda. That seemed to make everyone happy and
resolved any lingering doubts about the big dog's safety. The men
went into breakfast. Jessie was introduced to everyone and was
surprised, the Redbone family, including Tom and Abigale,
remembered him. Zelma Jane took him into her arms and kissed him
on each cheek. "You look as handsome as ever, Jessie. I can see
you're taking good care of yourself," she said and eyed him up and
down.
"I have a simple routine I follow, Ms. Zelma, and I try to eat
right," Jessie said, "I must say, you look wonderful. I'm glad to
see the dreadful rumors I heard around Houston are not true," he
added.
"No, they were true, Son, I just happened to be called to the
Daniels' ranch and arrived at their front gate on a wing and a
prayer with one foot already in the grave. The best doctors in the
state of Texas gave up on me and wrote me off. The Baylor med
center slammed and locked their doors when they saw me coming up
the walkway. They gave me less that two months. That was three
months ago. From what you witnessed this morning, I don't think I
need to elaborate on my looking twenty years younger and in
perfect health. Since my resurrection, or as Master Billy and his
crew like to call it refurbishing, I've only returned to my home
in Houston a couple of times for brief periods, but not long
enough to receive guests or entertain. I'm where I'm needed right
now, and enjoying the 'hell' out of it. There's never a dull
moment around this ranch. If you find yourself getting bored
wait ten minutes! All Hell will break loose," Zelma said and
winked at Jessie.
"You look wonderful, happy, and relaxed. It's good to see you this
way," Jessie complimented her.
"Welcome to our family, Jessie Jones. There's a place for you
here, too," Zelma said sincerely.
"I hope so, Ms. Zelma. I've longed for something like this to
happen to me, but never thought it might. It's like walking into
another world, ma'am," Jessie said.
"And so you have. Enjoy the ride, Son," Zelma said, and they sat
down to breakfast.
Talk was really lively around the table that morning. There was no
holding back because there were new folks with them. Everyone
accepted Jessie along with Harlen as one of them.
"How long will it take for Daffy and Chloe to speak, Master
Billy?" Jessie asked.
"The sheriff would probably be better able to answer that question
for you, Jessie," Billy replied.
"Miranda was trying to speak within twenty-four hours bits and
pieces. She worked really hard. She would get frustrated, but we
would encourage her. I don't think she got really good until Billy
refurbished ma' dad, and my little brother, Everett, come to live
with us. I'd say within a week she was talking pidgin English. In
two weeks she was carrying on conversations with us. In one month, she was correcting our English," Will Tate
said and grinned. "As you heard this morning, she can be funny
sometimes. She's developed a wicked sense of humor. She was the
only companion I had for a good while, but now she's come to be
more like a little sister to me than a pet," he added.
"Lord, I can't imagine them big dogs talking. I won't be able to
get a word in edgewise," Harlen lamented.
"What do you mean? Between Daffy, Chloe, me, Cookie, and Handy,
you don't anyway," Jessie joked.
"You got that right!" Harlen exclaimed, and everyone laughed.
Jessie was impressed by the family. Once they were in their human
form, they were like any other large family. He was most impressed
by several of Billy's immediate family. He thought Hank and Buck
were two of the finest looking cowboys he'd seen in a while. There
was no doubt in his mind the two young large cowboys, Enoch
Redbone and Moss Garrett, were a bonded pair. It was so obvious
they were very much in love with each other, Jessie almost
expected them to start feeding each other like two love birds.
Then there was Billy's Uncle Nathan and Mr. Garrett, Senior. While
they were more mature and stoic in their roles as stalwart men of
the West, they couldn't hide their admiration for each other.
Jessie never had a relationship with anyone. He and Harlen
developed a close working relationship without a physical
component which seemed to work for both of them. They never pushed
beyond their individual boundaries. Jessie thought about it, but
he never let it consume him. He was an employee and Harlen was his
boss; better to not muddy the water. That wasn't to say they
weren't fond of each other they were; however, it was more of a
mutual admiration and respect they held sacred for one another
which never allowed them to cross a finely undefined line. (think
about it!)
After breakfast the men went out to check on Daffy and Chloe and
good to his word, Billy carried out a goodly plate of scraps for
Miranda to enjoy. He gave her a few minutes to enjoy her food
before he woke the big dogs. They were probably hungry too, but
Billy wanted them to eat only slave chow and a nutrient biscuit
for several days. When Miranda was about finished with her
breakfast, Billy woke Chloe first. It didn't take her anytime to
become adjusted to her new rejuvenation and Billy allowed her to
jump down from the bunk where she lay. She felt wonderful and
proffered many kisses and a great happy dance for Master Billy and
her pack leaders. Chloe was an equal opportunity lover. She not
only offered kisses, she loved with her whole body. Daffy was a
bit slower to come around, but Oatie was by his side when he did
to make sure he didn't hurt himself. "Take it easy, big guy. It
will be a while before you gain your total strength, but a good
bowl of chow and a nutrient biscuit should help. Are you hungry?"
Oatie asked.
<< Daffy always hungry, >> Oatie heard in his head and
laughed.
"All right, we got some chow on the way. I'll let you get up when
it gets here," Oatie said.
Hank and Buck brought in a full sack of slave chow and a box of
nutrient biscuits, and gave it to Harlen and Jessie. "This bag and
box is to start you off. Buy your own when you get home and keep
them on it for about two weeks. Then you can add table scraps and
of course their regular treats. Slave chow is better balanced and
contains the extra nutrients they will need as they grow into
their new enhancements," Billy explained.
Jethro brought two large dishes and Oatie used a tin measuring cup
to place about four cups of chow into each. They placed two
nutrient biscuits next to each dish and set them before the hungry
hounds. Daffy and Chloe didn't need to be coaxed to eat. The big
dogs went to it like it was their last meal. The cowboys set out
two large pans of fresh water for them as well. They ate every bit
of their meal, but Chloe didn't eat one of her biscuits. She took
it in her mouth, turned, walked over to Miranda, and dropped it in
front of her as an offering of friendship and thanks for watching
them while the cowboys were away.
"Thank you so much for your kind offer, Chloe, but my master's fed
me and my pups this morning before we transported over here, and
Master Billy was kind enough to bring me a large plate of table
scraps from their breakfast. I couldn't eat another bite. You go
ahead. Trust me, you will need it. You will have a busy day today,
and you'll need all the extra nutrition you can handle," Miranda
said.
Chloe nodded she understood and quickly ate the other biscuit. The
men were impressed with Chloe's consideration for her smaller
sister. Harlen and Jessie were blown away. The dogs were acting
like they were considerably younger and displayed more vim and
vigor. When they were through with their meal they went to Billy
and Oatie and showered them with their love and appreciation for
making them feel so much better and younger. There was much happy
dancing and stolen kisses. It was a heartwarming site for everyone
to see the older dogs feeling better and relieved of worry brought
about by aging. They went everywhere with the men that day and were perfect guests. They stayed close
to Harlen and Jessie and made sure Miranda was near to let them
know proper protocol about who not to chase or run to too
aggressively. They were having a ball with the new sights, people,
critters, smells, and sounds. Everyone fell in love with the big
dogs; Billy's cowboy slaves in particular. They never saw other
dogs before but Miranda and her pups. They loved the talking winged little imps with
a passion.
Daffy and Chloe adopted Bossman Randy as their own. Randy took
time to communicate with them and fill them in on anything they
wanted to know about. Mental communication can be much faster than
verbal communication. Randy could pass pictures and words faster
than he could speak them. The big dogs kept him busy. They wanted
to know about everything. Daffy and Chloe herded him everywhere
the men went. Randy loved the attention. He was in constant
communication with them. He would burst out laughing and slap his
knee at something funny one of them said or their response to a
joke he made. Harlen and Jessie looked at each other in awe. There
was no doubt in their minds there was a lot of gossip and insights
Randy was sharing with his new buddies. Harlen said he was almost
jealous of their closeness. Jessie laughed at him.
The men took Harlen, Jessie, and the dogs to visit Harley-Buck and
introduced them and his bunk-mate Earl
Hickson. Jessie almost got a terminal case of the vapors when he
saw Orville, Harley-Buck, and Earl sitting together with Bubba
Kirkendall and Jack McCormack. He flushed white as a sheet and
then began to blush a deep red color. Harlen looked at him and
laughed. "Them men are the only three punishment slaves what Master Billy has in training at the
moment. He has another punishment slave what's been in prison for
eight years he and his men rescued just before he almost died in
the Huntsville prison infirmary, but they decided he'd seen and
done enough. Master Billy determines what initiation or 'slave
boot camp' a punishment slave will have and the time-period before
he's allowed to join the rest of his brothers as just another
slave. All them others are voluntary slaves from a hybrid race of
humanoid aliens who morphed from them talking cows you see milling
about out there. By the way, that harness them men are wearing has
a strap which runs under their ass what holds a large butt plug
tight inside them," Harlen said quietly to Jessie.
"Oh, Christ, Boss, why did you have to tell me that? I'm almost
ready to pass out from just looking at them," Jessie said, "I done
already got such a roaring hard-on it's stretching the skin on my
face to gimme' a sardonic grin and make my eyes look like a
Chinaman's," he said using cowboy hyperbole.
"I agree. It's gonna' be hard for me to go slow with my boy. He's
like a cold dish of ice cream on a hot summer's day you want to
dive into wiff' two spoons," Harlen said.
After introductions were made, Harlen and Harley-Buck went off to
a table by themselves and Bubba and Orville went to the loft in
the barn to share a little morning delight. They only had the
morning for any last instructions Bubba might have for his old
man. The rest of the afternoon would be taken up with the barnyard
concert and other activities. After introductions, Master Billy
and his posse took the dogs with them and went off to take care of
some last minute business before their guests for the Saturday
afternoon barbecue arrived. He took his right-hand cowboy brother
with them to act as a host for the visiting pets. Daffy and Chloe
were having a ball with all the new sights, smells, and sounds.
Jessie found himself sitting with Earl Hickson and his buddy Erin
Mascaro. The morning was getting warmer by the minute. Erin got
them each a tall glass of sweetened iced tea and set it before
them. Jessie saw Earl watching Bubba and Orville slowly walk with
their arms around each other, holding each other close, while
Bubba stole kisses as he felt him up, gently slapped Orville's
firm ass cheeks, and whispered nasty things he planned to do to
his dad, then they would laugh together. Jessie saw a look of hurt
mixed with jealousy on Earl Hickson's face. Erin caught Jessie
looking at Earl and could read his mind without the ability of
telepathy. It was obvious to Erin, the new man didn't understand
what was happening.
"My buddy Earl and Bubba were bosom buddies most of their lives.
The three of us were together in the Syria-Iranian war and
different hot-spots in the middle east. There were four of us, but
unfortunately our other buddy didn't make it back. He was my
little fuck buddy. I never had sex with a man before joining the
Marines but 'Buddy', that was his nickname, was so damn cute and
had such a sweet ass, I couldn't resist. Once I took the plunge,
so to speak, I never looked back. I had sex with women before and
after the service, but it weren't nothing like the bond I
experienced with my Buddy. When he got hit and died, I liked to
have gone off the deep end. Earl can tell ya. I became a basket
case for the rest of our hitch and did some crazy things trying to
get over my grief for my friend. I went back to women, but I just
used and abused them until they got tired of my shit and left me.
"Bubba came back to the hill country, but Earl got a decent job in Belton. He was making good money and bought
himself a nice used car. I got drunk, pulled a gun on him and
forced him to drive through one of them drive-through package
liquor stores, and I robbed the place at gunpoint. I made him
drive me to my girlfriend's place, and I let him go. He drove his
car into lake Belton and hitchhiked home to the hill country to
hide out. They never found the car or him. I never ratted on Earl
and told them it was a stranger what gimme' a ride. During our
time together in the middle east Bubba tried his best to get into
Earl's ass, but Earl werent' having none of it. I told him time
and again to just try it with Bubba. If he didn't like it or
couldn't get into it, he could always apologize and move on. I
strongly urged him to give the big man a chance. He could do a lot
worse than a fine man like Bubba Kirkendall. Bubba's one of the
four best men I ever done know'd. Earl and my Buddy are two; my
cell mate at Huntsville for the first seven years, is the fourth.
So, to shorten the story, the look you just seen on my brother's
face is one of self-doubt and remorse he didn't take Bubba up on
his offer earlier. Now Bubba's got his'self another fine looking
man he's training to be a good slave and teaching him the finer
points of giving himself to another man," Erin said, "Did I get
that right, Brother? Is there anything I left out?" he asked Earl.
Earl got a sick grin on his face and looked at his ice tea. "Naw,
you pretty well covered the bases, Bro, but for the life of me I
don't know why I feel this way. Maybe it's because I always had
Bubba's unconditional love, but I took it for granite. I know he
still cares about me and loves me like a brother, but they's just
something missing we had before what ain't there now. Now I see
him giving that part of himself to Orville, and it makes me feel
empty. I'm torn between my wish to see Bubba happy and how to deal
with the hole in my heart. I got to stop think'n on it, or it's
gonna' eat me up," Earl confessed.
"Naw it won't, Brother!" Erin exclaimed and slapped Earl on the
back, "Trust me, you're on the right track sitting here as a new
slave on the Daniels' ranch. You couldn't be in a better place to
learn what you need to know about life and where you fit into
everything," Erin assured him.
"Sometime recognizing there is a problem is the first step to
finding a solution, Mr. Hickson," Jessie said quietly.
"Earl! Just call me Earl, sir. I been reduced to a slave, but I
ain't ashamed. At least, on the Daniels' ranch, I'm treated like a
human and not an animal. Nobody's made me do nothing degrading or
humiliating what I didn't consent to before-hand. I don't think
Master Billy had the same plan for us he did for Orville
Higginbothem. It was Harley-Buck and me what asked him for the
same treatment. I know I probably look ridiculous to you with
these rings and this harness, but my bunk-mate, Harley-Buck and
me, we decided we's gonna' wear our slave training attire as a
badge of honor and pride. We done made up our minds to do this and
make the best of it," Earl said and sat a little taller but winced
a bit when it shifted his butt plug then he smiled and blushed.
"Were the piercings painful?" Jessie asked wishing his cock would
behave itself, but he just had to know.
"Not at all. The crunching sound the punch made for the hole in my
nose was a bit scary, but I didn't feel a thing. I was sure the
one through the head of my penis would be a bullet-bite'n-bastard,
but it was the easiest one. Master Billy was through and done
while I was still waiting for him to start. They laughed at me. I
looked down, and I'll be damned if it weren't already done," Earl
said.
"Would you like to see Earl's Prince Albert piercing, Master
Jones?" Erin Mascaro asked.
"If it wouldn't be too much trouble, and if Earl don't mind,"
Jessie replied.
"Earl don't have no say in the matter,
sir. I'm one of his keepers. Stand and hit parade rest, slave!"
Erin ordered his friend.
Earl didn't hesitate and immediately jumped up and assumed parade
rest. Erin reached under Earl's fully packed codpiece and popped
it off with one swift movement. "Voilα!" he exclaimed and held his
left hand to point out the masterpiece before him.
Jessie got a good look at Earl's fine piece of manhood confined in
a cock-cage wearing a large ring though his penis. Jessie was sure
his cock couldn't get any harder, but he was wrong. "That's
amazing, Earl. I can understand how you might be proud. If it's
any personal comfort to you, I must say, I'm almost envious of you
right at this moment. Almost? Hell no! My daddy taught me never to
lie or tell half-truths. Fuck it! I'm burning up with envy so bad
my ears may start erupting steam or lava at any minute," Jessie
said, slapped his leg, and fell out laughing. Erin and Earl joined
him.
"I keep telling Earl he's a knock out, but I don't think he
believes me, sir," Erin said, "Do you now, Brother?" he asked Earl
"Yes, I think it's becoming easier for me," Earl replied and
blushed.
Erin quickly replaced Earl's codpiece and motioned for him to sit
down.
"And were you given a choice when you came to be a slave for the
Daniels' ranch?" Jessie asked Erin.
"Naw, sir. It was my master's decision. I was ready to go along
with anything he planned for me. I was so happy to be alive and
out of that dreadful prison, I would have done anything he asked
of me to prove my gratefulness. Once I saw Orville, and now Earl
and Harley-Buck, I wonder if I might have benefited from this form
of basic training. It reduces a man to a common denominator and
starts to slowly rebuild him into a good and compassionate man;
which, is exactly what the Marine Corps does to new recruits, only
they turn them into mindless warriors trained to follow orders
whether they're good or bad," Erin said and paused as Harlen and
Harley-Buck walked up to the patio table.
"May we join you, Gentlemen?" Harlen asked.
"Certainly, Boss!" Jessie replied, "Erin Mascaro, one of Earl and
Harley-Buck's keepers, was beginning to tell us about his prison
experience and his cell mate," Jessie said and the other two men
encouraged them to join them.
Erin Mascaro's Story ~
"My story ain't no secret and anyone who might gain some insight
or wisdom from my experience is welcome to listen. When I first
arrived to the Daniels' ranch, I was awestruck by the difference
from the life I was living in prison. It was like walking into
paradise compared to the fear and continual imbalance you're
forced to live with under those conditions. Despite his obvious
youth, Master Billy is one of the most understanding and
compassionate men I ever met in my life. We talked for hours one
afternoon. He took me for a walk down by the river and wanted to
know my story my experiences in prison. You can't lie to Master
Billy. He can get into your head and listen to your thoughts. He
can tell in a cow-town minute if you's lying to him. I swear on
the name of some unknown god, I assured my new master it was with
the same confidence scientist have for the elegant truth of
Euler's Theorem he could comfortably apply to my situation. I made
him a promise, I would never lie to him. I did not lie to him, and
I will not lie to you, sirs," Erin said and paused.
"I was about as green as they come when I went to Huntsville. I
thought I was a tough guy. Hell, I was an ex-Marine. I'd been to
hell and back in the Middle-east and survived. I was sure I could
handle prison with no problems. I imagined I'd be able to keep to
myself, keep a low profile, mind my own business, do my time, get
out a little early for good behavior, and move on. The first five
days I was there, I was put into a cell with a mean-spirited old
man I had to fight several times to keep
him from forcibly raping me. He was considerably older than me but not nearly as fit. I just got out of the
Marine Corps, and I was in top condition. He arrogantly assumed
because I was the new kid on the block, it was his right as his
cell-mate to make me his bitch. I was able to hold him off and
told him the next time he touched me without my permission, I
would turn the tables on him and make him my bitch. It was only
one of many incidents. The next major thing which happened, I was
going to be gang raped by four Latino men in the shower one night
when in walked one of the biggest men I ever saw in my life.
"He was a giant Norwegian man by the name of Odin Asgard
Bluetooth. I shit you not! That was his name. He was the most
fearsome man in Huntsville and ever'body knew you didn't give no
grief to Big Blue. His only hobby was working-out in the
weightlifting area, and he built his body until he was massively
proportioned. He weren't only big, he was a monster with bigger
guns than many professional bodybuilder.
At seven feet six inches he was a mountain on the move and
everyone got out of his way when he passed. He saw what was going
on and told the Chicanos they were past their allotted time in the
shower, to get out, and leave the white boy alone to finish his
shower in peace.
"They grumbled and complained but quickly went their way and left
me and Big Blue to ourselves. I thanked him for intervening and
went about my shower. I noticed he was looking me over like a
fresh piece of meat, but I didn't show him any interest. What I
saw hanging between his legs wasn't your average sized penis. It
looked like a weapon of mass destruction. I certainly didn't want
to encourage him. He was quiet for a while as he went about his
shower, but as I was finishing mine, he spoke, "You're a new fish
here. You got a lot to learn, Son. Join the Aryan Brotherhood as
fast as you can. They will provide you some protection; however, I
won't kid you, everything in this joint comes at a price. To
survive you got to learn how to game the system. You will need a
mentor. Someone who will look out for you with enough scare power
reputation no one will touch you without his permission," Blue
said.
The next day at the evening meal, Blue came to the table where I
was sitting with two other men, but we weren't together. He came
and stood before me and asked if he could sit down. I motioned for
him to do so. He glowered at the other two men, nodded his head
for them to vamoose, they picked up their trays and quickly moved
to another table. He sat down and started eating his supper. "Did
you contact the Aryan Brotherhood?" he asked quietly.
"Yes, sir, I did, but I have to draw somebody's blood to become a
member. I'm in here because booze makes me a
crazy-angry-mean-assed-son-of-a-bitch a regular Dr. Jekyll and
Mr. Hyde. After a certain point, I can't control myself no more,
but I ain't no murderer. At least not yet, and I don't wanna' be
not for no dumb religious reason neither. I couldn't live with
myself anymore. I plan to do my time and get out of this place. I
don't want no extra time added to my sentence. The brotherhood's
motto is 'blood-in/blood-out.' I'll take my chances on my own,
thank you," I told him, "By the way, Mr. Blue, I noticed in the
shower last night you don't have none of them tribal tats on your
body. In fact, you ain't got a one I could notice. I done checked
on you, and you ain't a member of the 666," I added.
"I'm big, and I keep myself fit. I believe my body is a temple;
always growing and evolving. Every living cell in your body is
completely replaced once ever' seven years. You ain't the same
person you were seven years ago. If you're lucky enough to live
eighty years, there will be approximately eleven complete rebirths
of your body. I don't believe in ritual scarification or tattoos
which labels you for life. I don't choose to live my life that
way. I coexist with the brotherhood, but I don't participate in
their schemes. I stay to myself and don't get involved if I can
help it. I can handle myself in most situations because of my
size. They leave me alone, but they won't you," he growled.
"Cut to the chase, big man! I may be a fish, but I ain't no fool.
I could feel you looking me over and sizing me up in the shower.
What's it gonna' cost me for your protection, Mr. Blue?" I asked
looking him right in the eye.
The man-mountain grinned, "Well at least you ain't naοve. That's
one hurdle we don't have to jump," he replied and smiled.
"Lemme' guess. You're in the market for a wife, and you liked what
you saw last night. Are you a gay man?" I asked.
"Not by choice. Look around you. Do you see any women in here?
They don't even allow women in the hospital. I probably won't ever
see another women up close and personal for the rest of my life
and yes, I'm looking for a mate, but I won't be so crass or
insensitive to your masculine ego to ever refer to you as my
'wife,'" he said, "Cards on the table? You and me, we become a
bonded pair. Not unlike marriages of convenience in the early days
of our country, when men mostly went into the new lands to settle
the frontier, then later, through letters and pictures, chooses a
bride for himself. Like a Lyre bird performs for his mate his
gathered array of copied sounds from chain saws to guitar riffs, I
offer you my unblemished body to have and to hold, a promise of
uncomplicated protection for the use of your ass and an occasional
blowjob. That's it in a nutshell, Son. It ain't rocket science.
It's distilled Darwinism. Survival of the fittest in an impossible
situation. You got something I want and need, and I can provide
you with protection. How about it?" he asked, "So much for long,
protracted courtships," he added as an afterthought. He made me
laugh. At least he had a sense of humor, and there was something
about his use of words which made me think he was either well-read
or an educated man.
I told him, "I got me a feel'n life moves at an accelerated rate
in this place, and if you see something you like and don't throw
your hat over it, you miss out completely. The train leaves the
station, it's the last train to Clarksville, and you ain't on it.
There ain't no second chances," I told him.
"At least the Dr. Hyde part of you's got some horse-sense about
him," he replied, and we shared a laugh.
"Are you a gay man?" Blue asked.
I didn't take offense, because I was bold enough to asked the same
of him. "Not by orientation," I replied,"but I'll admit, right
now, it probably would make things easier. I've butt-fucked a
number of my buddies who wanted it. I enjoyed it as much or more
than the times I was with women; especially my little fuck buddy
in the Marines what done went and got his'self killed. I was very
much in love with him, but I would never admit it to him. I wish I
hadn't a been such a got-damned hard-ass motherfucker and told him
how much I loved and cared about him. It was the main reason I
stayed drunk most of the time and fucked up my life. I'm still
grieving for him. While I ain't never been on the receiving end, I
noticed I was more considerate, loving, and gentle with my little
buddy than I was with women. For what it's worth, I had several
men tell me they thought I would make a great gay lover. It sort
of torqued my tits the wrong way at the time, but the more I
thought about it, it was kind of a nice back-door compliment no
pun intended. I'm afraid I'm a user and somewhat of an abuser of
women. Maybe because I was rejected by my own mother when I was a
kid, I never allowed myself to trust women. I come to look upon
them as mostly conniving, manipulating baby factories sitting in
wait like a Venus Fly-trap to snare and eat you alive if you push
the wrong button. I was raised by two good and kind gay men; my
great uncle and his partner two old cowboys on a ranch in the
big pine country of East Texas," I said, "I saw your penis last
night in the shower, and it damn near scared the shit out of me,"
I added.
"Good, then you understand you will have to be completely clean
before you can safely take me," Blue said and grinned, "but not to
worry, I'm a patient lover. I have a graduated set of rubber
husbands or wife-makers, depending on your point of view, to help
you become comfortable before I attempt to take you," he
explained. "Word in the yard has it, old Ben Foggle, your cell
mate, already tried to rape you, and you beat the crap out of him
told him you were gonna' turn the tables on him if he didn't
leave you alone," he commented, "You already got a reputation for
being a scrapper," he added.
"I did, but I ain't proud of myself. I just got out of the Marine
Corps, and I was trained in hand-to-hand combat, plus I was state
champion in the Golden Gloves three years in a row when I was in
high school. Nobody will lay a hand on me if I don't want him to,
but after them Chicanos tried to gang rape me last night, I can
see it's going to be one got-damned fight after another. I never
thought it was gonna' be easy, but I only been here a week. Jesus
Christ! Did I miss the welcoming committee? I never got flowers or
candy; not even a basket of fruit to wish me well. The least they
could a' done was leave a mint on my pillow. What's wrong with
this fuck'n place?" I asked and got the big man laughing.
"That's just it! There ain't nothing to do worth a damn but fuck
the buddy you care about and try to bring you both some release
and comfort, and I'm bet'n the man you end up with, no pun
intended, won't get you by force. He'll have to win your trust,
your confidence, and your heart," Blue said, "Besides, you's too
damn good looking and unspoiled to be in prison. They never should
of sent you to a place like this. Huntsville's like the seventh
ring of Dante's Inferno," he added.
"Dante's Inferno? That did it! There was something about the way
he said them words what struck a nerve in me like a resounding
chord at the end of a great piece of music. At that moment, I
understood Blue weren't out to dominate me so much as to conjoin
with me physically and spiritually to become a team to make a
strong statement against the ravages and dehumanization of prison
life," Erin said.
"Fuck it!" I told him, "If I'm gonna' have to take on a husband to
get me a halfway decent life in this shit-hole, I'm willing to pay
the price. I want the biggest, most intelligent, best looking,
got-damned mother-fucker I can find to protect me, and if he's got
the biggest cock in the joint, I'll work with him until we get it
right and can both enjoy the talents we bring to each other," I
said.
"Do I have your word?" he asked.
"You have my word, sir, and by the way, I fuck'n hate tattoos," I
replied, and we shook hands to seal our troth.
That evening, I was moved to Blue's cell, and I began my new life
as his mate. My cellmate's parting shot was, "You won't be able to
say 'no' to that big man, Miss Priss, he'll break you in two," he
hissed.
"Thanks for reminding me, Sadie. That's exactly why I agreed to
become his cell mate. Blue's a real man. He can take what he wants
from me. At least he's not a dried up impotent old crone like you.
I done made him a promise I won't never say 'no' to him," I shot
back and thumbed my nose at him. For a while afterward, I would
catch Ben looking at us. I would kiss the palm of my hand, smile,
and blow it at him. He would glower at me. Grudges die hard in
prison.
"There was no guesswork about our relationship. Everyone in the
prison knew we became a couple. Blue became my husband. I became
his wife, but Blue never treated me that way. Together, we rose
above the labels and snide comments any recognized subordinate
partner must cope with in prison. Blue worked to stretch my
sphincter and allowed me time to become comfortable with a large
object up my ass. He open me up like Master Billy's training his
punishment slaves, with slight differences; I weren't required to
wear a butt plug until we finished our day's work and we were
alone in our cell. He worked me good with his wife-makers until I
could take the largest one with ease. When we were satisfied, I
was finally ready for our nuptial bed, Blue took me gently, with
patience, and strength. The big man wasn't an insensitive beast.
He empathized and understood what I was giving up for him, and he
took it from me with love, compassion, and understanding. I
couldn't have asked for a better mate for my first time than Big
Blue.
"After a month of his intensive training and stretching of my ass
to accommodate the length and girth of his manhood, it would be
wrong for me to refer to the first night my husband took me as
'anticlimactic' because Blue was more than I could have hoped for
in a partner. He made sure we both reached gut wrenching climaxes,
one after another, until we completed three marathon ejaculations.
When we finished we were exhausted, and at least for a while, we
were temporarily sated. That week began a routine. I worked in the
laundry, and he worked in the license plate printing area. He
didn't get back to our cell until an hour after I did. I would
clean myself and insert my plug in case my husband needed me. He
always did. We cleaned up after he got back and would go to dinner
together. After we got back we would talk for a while, then have
sex.
"Things went along fine for the first five years. We just became
an accepted item. We were known to neither carry tales nor would
we ever rat anyone out. We got the label of Mr. and Mrs.
Bluetooth. There were several other names or cognomens by which we
were known. Blue's first name was Odin and when we were alone, I
affectionately called him Odie. He like to call me his 'baby'
because he was beginning to remodel my body in his image. Others
picked up on it and started calling me 'Baby Blue.' I didn't
object. I was rather flattered being known as the big man's baby.
We stood out in the yard because we were the only two without
tattoos and Blue slowly, over the years, got me as jazzed about
bodybuilding as he was. I became his Pygmalion and he created the
perfect lover or sub-husband he wanted me to be. Other than the
big man himself, there was no man in the prison more well-defined
and pumped than me. We even looked alike Big Frack and Frack
Junior. Even though we tried, as best we could, to keep a low
profile, there were those who became jealous and angry because
anyone should find a modicum of happiness in a place so dreadful
as prison. While they were raging against the machine, we built an
ark to sail above the troubled waters.
"Alas, even the most perfect of relationships can not remain in
situ forever. We hit several bumps our sixth year together. We
were happy and content. Nothing could get to us. We laughed at the
other prisoners' snide or funny remarks about us; until, one of
the younger initiates to the Brotherhood felt like we should be
members, if you ain't for us you're agin us, abide by their rules,
and live as they live since the color of our skin was white. He
was loud, mean-spirited, nasty, and aggressive. Blue put him in
his place a couple of times and embarrassed him. He lost face for
a while and kept his mouth shut, but he was like a smoldering
ember ready to burst into flames at the least provocation. His
name was Barney Pike, but everyone called him 'Rubble' after the
cartoon character. He and I got into it one afternoon just when I
was getting off work from the laundry. Some other guys pulled us
apart. He pulled a shiv on me he made from a sharpened plastic
toothbrush and punched a couple of holes in me. He was yelling
accusations at me, but I kept my cool and remained quiet. I was
more worried about what Blue might do to him.
"Shut the fuck up, you raving lunatic and listen to me for one
Goddamn minute then you can go back to your stupid rant. My old
man is gonna' be pissed big time when he sees these holes you
punched in me. I ain't hiding behind his size none, neither. I
ain't afraid of you, Rubble, or your foul mouth. I'm calling your
cowardly ass out. What the fuck you think you're doing stabbing an
unarmed man? If you want to settle this man to man we'll have it
out in the yard bare fists with no weapons. The man left standing
is the winner," I told him. My old man will be in touch with your
man.
"To make a long story shorter, we had our rumble. It was
controlled with the guards watching. They knew what was going to
take place and were betting as heavy on the outcome as the cons. I
went into the fight as the underdog. The bets were five to one,
heavily in favor of Rubble winning the fight because he was bigger
physically. Blue knew better. He knew my past and bet heavily on
me. After the first few minutes, I realized Rubble was no fighter.
He would spend his strength and energy coming after me and leave
himself wide open. I would duck, weave, bob, and pop him a good
one every time. I would taunt him. I knew if I could get him angry
and maintained my cool, the fight was mine. He would go down,
scurry to get up, and like a slobbering raging bull, he would come
at me again. He was so clumsy and uncoordinated, it almost became
funny to me.
"What a shame, Rubble, all that money your family paid for them
ballet lessons, and you can't even chew gum and walk at the same
time! You're pitiful. Come on you fuck'n coward. Show me what you
got, asshole, 'cause when I put you down, I'm gonna' undo your
pants, slick up my old hoss real good, and take me a ride like a
pro-rodeo cowboy. I'm gonna' corn-hole yore' ass 'til it bleeds in
front of your brothers," I said and the gathered crowed laughed at
my bullshit. That really wound him up. I could swear I could see
steam coming from his nares. Finally, he decided to go at me like
a raging dervish to overpower me with crazy, but I was ready for
him. He missed a step, I put my left foot in front of him to trip
him, he fell to my right, and as he was going down, I popped him a
good one with a strong uppercut as hard as I could against his jaw
and broke it. It made a terrible crunching sound like stepping on
a bag of potato chips. He was out like a
light and didn't get up. The yard went crazy applauding, yelling,
and hooting for me. His main man walked up to me, grabbed my hand,
raised my arm as the winner, and the yard yelled some more. The
head of the brotherhood came and embraced me, kissed me on my
cheek, and shook my hand. It was a strong political statement as
well as good sportsmanship on the part of the Brotherhood. I could
see Blue grinning like a Cheshire cat at the back of the crowd,
licking his thumb, acting like he was counting money. I laughed,"
Erin said.
"Others noticed me and Blue as well. One afternoon I was called to
the Warden's office. I had no idea what they wanted because it had
been some time since the rumble with Rubble. There was nothing
wrong, the Warden and his head screw wanted to fuck me. One would
fuck me in the butt, and the other would fuck my face; then they
switched the next time. They wanted me completely naked when they
did it. They made sure I got back to my cell at my usual time. I
would quickly clean myself so Blue wouldn't suspect anything. It
went on once a week for a couple of months, usually on a Friday
afternoon. I did everything in my power to keep it from Blue but
living in a prison is like living in a frick'n goldfish bowl.
Sometimes the information becomes garbled when it's only bits and
pieces of rumors; like the old game of whispering a secret and
passing it from person to person until it's nothing like the
original message. It became like an elephant in our cell between
us. We still made love and shared sex, but there was something
missing. I knew it, and Blue knew it, but we didn't talk about it.
Finally, out of frustration and desperation Blue asked if I was
having an affair with another inmate.
"God no, Odie! And don't chu' never think that again! You're the
only man for me. There's no one in this prison who even runs a
close second to you. I swear to you on all the gods that man has
worshiped or will ever worship and any unknown gods out there in
the universe, I love you to the breadth and height my soul can
reach. You are my god, Odie! I would bow down to you and worship
at your feet if you asked me to. I put you above all others and
the day I can't have you put your body inside mine to make us one,
I will stop living," I told him. "Leave this be, Odie. Let it go
for both our sakes. You're right to be suspicious, but it's better
you not know. It might cause repercussions which might break us
apart. Once you made me a promise you would offer me your
protection if I gave you what you needed. Have I failed to live up
to my end of our bargain?" I asked.
"No, you exceeded my expectations a hundred fold. I couldn't love
you more, Baby Blue," Blue replied.
"Nothing has changed between us, I promise," I said.
"You know I never would, but I could beat it out of you, Son,"
Blue said.
"I would rather die by your hand, my love, than to betray you or
tell you something which might change our happiness. Just make
damn sure you do it after you emptied your final load in me and
made me come for my last time. Then I'll die a happy and contented
man in the arms of the man I love," I said firmly.
The big man looked at me and tears began to run down his cheeks.
"You love me that much, Baby?" he asked.
"No, no much more than that, Odie. I have no way to express the
measure of my love for you," I replied.
That was the last of our conversations about the elephant in our
cell. Weeks afterward Blue was in the yard talking with the head
of the Brotherhood and he was really down. "Why so glum, big 'un?"
Marcus asked.
"I can't get nothing from nobody about my boy and what's going on.
It's like it's the best kept secret since the false flag operation
of 9/11. I feel like I'm being cuckold and Baby Blue's being
unfaithful to me," Blue said.
"Leave it alone, Blue. Trust me. You don't wanna' know. Take my
word for it, the boy ain't doing nothing to cheat on you. They
don't come no better'n 'nat boy and his love for you is his
strength. You make his sun come up in the East and go down in the
West. You set the moon and stars out at night for him. He would
give his life for you in a heartbeat. Why do you think everyone in
this damn prison is jealous of you and him? You two got something
the rest of us can only dream about, but the worse part is, it
reminds us of what we might have had," he said firmly, "We watched
you create him in your image to become the son and lover you
always wanted and know you could never have on the outside. Think
about it, Blue. Next to you, he's got the second best body in this
prison. He's a young god in the eyes of many men, and not just the
inmates either," Marcus added. He paused for a while waiting to
see if Blue picked up on his last few words.
"Son of a bitch!" Blue exclaimed in a whisper, "How fuck'n blind
can I be? Why ain't you said nothing before now?" he asked.
"Same reason your boy don't want you to know. We may not agree
with your politics, but we have to admire you and him and what you
men built for yourselves. We'll stand up for you and Baby Blue
when you need us; just like you backed us any number of times.
This is one you can't fight, Blue. You can't fight the powers what
be and maintain your life with Erin. You mess with this, I promise
you, it will explode in your face and come tumbling down around
you. Better to let it be, and let them think you're none the
wiser. Like any other toy, they'll become bored with him in time,
and you'll have him to yourself again. It's their way of letting
you and us know they can take anything away from us if they want
to. Granted it's the worst form of psychological intimidation
bordering on mental torture. It's rough, Brother, ain't no doubt
about it, but you gotta' trust your boy and be strong for him.
Think about Baby Blue. This cain't be no Gollywog's Cakewalk for
him neither. He lives in fear ever' damn day hoping the only man
he truly loves won't find out and reject him 'cause he's being
forcibly raped by two other men," Marcus said, "He ain't got no
say in the matter, Blue. They told him they wouldn't allow you two
to be together no more if he didn't cooperate and keep his mouth
shut. You should look upon how he's handling the situation as one
of the greatest statements of love he could possibly pay you, Son.
That boy ain't ready to give you up; not by a long shot. He's
fighting with all his strength to hold onto you," Marcus added.
"Marcus was right. The Warden and his head screw got tired of me
and would only call me to the office once every other month or so.
Things almost got back to normal between Blue and me, but our
seventh year together all hell broke loose with the brotherhood.
The old blood was labeled conservative and the new blood were more
aggressive and radical. They insisted every white man in the
prison become one of them or face being murdered. One of the
younger soldiers tried to take me out with a homemade shiv. I took
some cuts but Blue found us fighting and put the kid in the
hospital. The brotherhood put out a contract on Blue, but the
screws got wind of it, told the Warden, and he slapped my husband
in solitary confinement. I got a new cell-mate. Well, he weren't
new. It was old Ben Foggle. We made up over the years and became
pretty good friends. Not enough to make the beast with two backs
but buddies. Things went along pretty well for a while. The guards
who liked me and Blue would allow us conjugal visits once a week.
We only had a couple of hours, and we would fuck our brains out.
Then it went from once a week to once a month; every other month;
every six months, and I could see the life and light slowly going
out of Blue's eyes.
"Our last visit we knew we'd never see each other again in this
life. We said our goodbyes and made the sweetest love we ever did.
I will always remember that night. It was only another six months,
and I got in the middle of an inter-racial knife fight between a
Brotherhood member and Chicano gang member. I got cut up pretty
bad, and they refused to patch me up. They claimed it would take
too much money. They were going to let me die. That's when Master
Billy and his men rescued me," Erin finished his story.
The men around the table sat in silence. There was a cool breeze
blowing through the patio, and the ends of the umbrella were
flapping. It was the only sound for a few seconds. A couple of the
men were deeply moved by Erin's story. "You never told me about
your time in prison, Brother," Earl said.
"I didn't see no need and have you think bad of me because I
jumped the fence from women to men," Erin replied.
"Have you had feelings or thoughts about women since you been on
the Daniels' ranch, Master Erin?" Harley-Buck asked.
"Ain't thought about it much either way. I thought a hell a lot
about my husband. Last I heard he refused to eat and was trying to
starve himself to death; however, it didn't sound like the man I
knew and loved. You can't never tell about rumors in prison," Erin
replied.
"If you could be with him again under better circumstances would
you still want him?" Jessie asked.
"Oh, God, yes! In a heartbeat. Blue was my husband for seven
years. Seven god-awful years. Blue turned it into seven wonderful
years seven of the greatest years of my life, I will cherish
'til the day I die. If he were to walk onto this patio this very
minute, I would fall on my knees before him, kiss his feet, and
beg Odie Bluetooth to claim me as his spouse and marry me in a
cow-town minute and insist Master Billy ring us together as his
slaves with my husband's approval, of course," Erin said,
laughed, and blushed.
"Thanks for sharing your story with us, Son," Harlen said, "I had
no idea our prisons were so poorly run today. I can understand why
Master Billy didn't think you needed further adjustments, but it
makes me wonder if you weren't robbed of a choice about your
sexuality by being forced into a situation you might not have
chosen for yourself," he added.
"I been out of prison for several weeks
now and never once thought about one of them pretty lady cowgirls.
I'm friendly with 'um and chat 'um up from time to time, but I
come to realize I prefer the company of men. I finally realized my
momma done killed any urges to take a woman for a mate. It
wouldn't be fair to the woman, because I couldn't return her love
the way she needs. In my case, I'd venture to say, prison and
becoming Odin Asgard Bluetooth's wife made me understand my own
sexuality and need better than any psychiatrist might accomplish.
You men undergoing Master Billy's training may never totally
switch, but I promise, it will make you much better husbands and
lovers for your wives if you decided to take a woman for a mate.
You'll get to experience what it's like to become a good partner
for another man and hopefully, if you're sensitive enough, you can
extrapolate that wisdom to your straight relationships. We don't
have classes in sex education to teach kids about them birds and
bees and what to expect from physical relationships. It's been a
hit and miss type thing from the beginning of time. Some primitive
tribes are much better at it than our so-called enlightened
society," Erin said.
"Cain't gainsay that, Son," Harlen agreed, "I'm still trying to
figure it out. I can understand them other men's envy of you and
your husband. I found your story most evocative," he added.
"I second that comment, Mr. Mascaro, and not because he's my boss,
neither," Jessie said and grinned.
"One thing I can assure you, Son, is my man don't hold back. He
speaks his mind," Harlen said, and the men shared a laugh.
* * * * * * *
Guests began to arrive at the ranch. Billy and his posse were
there to greet everyone. The last couple of barbecue barnyard
concert afternoons were more laid-back but impressive affairs.
Today Billy was pulling out all the stops and planned a full day
of good food and entertainment. He also invited most of the
villagers except those tending the great bulls and making
preparation for later in the evening. Billy planned a late evening
bull party in the dungeon steam baths with gentle herb teas and
brotherly camaraderie. He found he got more ideas from his family
when they were in a totally relaxed mood sharing a good time with
each other.
Both sets of Sun Bears were invited to the day's festivities.
Billy had Edith and Archie make sure the satellite feed-loop was
active so no one would see anything suspicious from space. They
found someone already took care of it, but Billy didn't have to
ask who. He knew his little brother arranged it. Randy was just a young
boy, but he was growing in mental abilities faster than anyone but
Billy could keep up with. The boy took care of some delicate
matters for Billy under the supervision of Clyde and Balthazar as
a matter of course. With his two favorite and bestest cowboy-angel
buddies to counsel and guide him, Billy didn't figure Randy could
get himself into any trouble from which they couldn't easily
rescue him. To Randy, his manipulations and insights into the
workings of the Shedu and their fund of near magic abilities was a
stroll in the park. His abilities to 'see' into the deeper
inner-workings of their talents became second nature to him. He
didn't see it as anything to get excited about. He could do it,
and he got the job done with little or no effort. The little
Bossman never worked up a sweat.
With Master Billy's permission, Jack and Bubba invited Hoss and
his cousin Doug Dewberry for another Saturday afternoon and
evening with his family. They were thrilled to get another
invitation. They never had such a wonderful time as their previous
visit to the ranch. Once again they drove to Bubba's ranch, met
him and Jack, and they drove to the Daniels' ranch in Hoss's big
truck. Hoss didn't have any problems with the guard bulls. They
recognized him immediately, wished him well, and parted for the
men to continue up to the compound. There were many more vehicles
than their last visit. Billy invited everyone in the local area.
Hoss and Doug were anxious to see the two new punishment slaves
they heard so much about from Bubba and Jack. They marveled at
Orville the last time they visited the ranch, but to see two more
men in their slave contraptions made an even
bigger impression on them.
It seemed like the compound came to life in about thirty minutes
time. Billy gathered his guests, but the cowboy-slaves along with
Earl, Harley-Buck, and Orville went with their keepers to have
their lunch and get ready for the barnyard concert. When they
parted, Bubba told Orville he would come for him just before the
concert, and they would sit together. They spent an exceptionally
fine morning in the hayloft, and the men were psyched up for the
coming day. The compound was quickly filling up with the village
people including the musicians. Several of the guest never met the
three giants and their friends Thor and Zeus. They worked and
lived in the castle on Captain Nick's ship and rarely came to the
ranch functions. Everyone was impressed by Gog, Joe, and Willie,
and the kids loved them. They were being carried around like young
princes by their family giant. Actually, it looked like a picture
out of a children's story book. The flying Sun Bears and their
acrobatic brothers and sisters were the hit of the day. Billy
grabbed Erin Mascaro, threw his arm around his shoulder, and
pulled him close, "Come with me, Brother, I have some rather large
men I want you to meet. You come in handy being a surrogate host
and my representative showing folks around on several occasions.
These men are special people, so chaperon
them, see to their comfort, and answer any questions they might
have," Billy said.
"Thanks for your trust in me, Master Billy. I'm your man," Erin
said eagerly.
When Erin caught sight of the giants with Thor and Zeus being much
larger than normal human males, he swooned and almost went weak in
his knees. Billy held his arm around him tight. "Easy there, Hoss!
Steady, big fellow. Remind you of anyone?" he asked mischievously.
"Of course, but I couldn't love you more for this assignment,
Boss. I thought my heart might stop for a minute, but it continues
to beat with a little more remembered joy. I don't know if you're
an angel or a demon and I don't care, but you knew I would come in
my Wranglers when I looked upon them men. A part of you is
deliciously wicked," Erin said and laughed.
"I was kinda hoping for that reaction," Billy said and patted Erin
on his fine butt, "I'm proud of the way you're fitting in here at
the ranch and couldn't be more pleased with your work with our new
slaves. For the moment, I think we found your place in the sun,"
Billy allowed.
"I never had a job I felt more relaxed and comfortable than I do
being a keeper. It parallels my past to a remarkable degree. I can
understand and thoroughly approve you methods, sir," Erin said.
The giants seemed to be as interested in Erin Mascaro as he was in
them. Having to contend with men for eight years in prison made
Erin the perfect social ambassador for his master. The giants with
Thor and Zeus seemed to welcome him among them as one of them. One
or the other had their arm around him all afternoon, and they
listened intently to every word he said. Erin was in his cups.
Once again Billy asked for volunteers to ride down to the river
with his staff to take food, drink, and treats to their local
stomping of Bigfoot and their ubiquitous
companions, the daddy long-legs. The giants and their company
wanted to help and Billy nodded his approval to Erin and grinned.
Erin knew to see the giants joined them and took over for his
Boss. Harlen and Jessie volunteered. They wanted to see how many
Bigfoot there were around the area. Randy was ready and told Daffy
and Chloe to not be afraid of the big beast. The were just like
Boomer and Brute, and they would not harm them or their masters.
He told them they were not to be barked at or challenged. To
Billy's surprise there were considerably more of the large beasts
and daddy long-legs that day.
<< Do you know anything about this, little Brother? >>
Billy sent to Randy.
<< Yes, big Brother, I invited them, >> Randy sent
back and giggled, << They's from the
woodlands around Master Harlen's place. I
sent a blanket invitation telling them where to gather for
transportation. Clyde and Balthazar went with me, and we brought
them through a gate. They understand we'll take them back after
the concert is over. They's eighteen of them. Ten Daddy Long-legs
and eight Bigfoot, >> Randy explained.
Billy couldn't help laugh. He couldn't be angry with the boy. He
was the one teaching him to be humanistic and to think outside the
box. "Next time, at least warn me, little Brother," Billy pleaded,
"I think we'll have enough food to go around, but we may have to
cut the others a little short," Billy explained, "I need to know
how many you invited to the party so we'll have ample," he added.
"I promise, Master Billy," Randy said contritely.
"My God would you look at the number of them beasts and them
half-clothed naked homeless men," Harlen said to his man, Jessie.
"Wow, and wow again, Boss. Who'd a thunk it!" Jessie
exclaimed,"Where did they come from, Master Billy?" Jessie asked.
"Well, that group of eighteen standing by themselves over to the
left is from your neck of the woods. Our young genius here sent a
blanket invitation to them, told his Shedu friends to open a gate,
and with Clyde and Balthazar's help, they brought them here for
food and the concert," Billy said and fell out laughing, "Bossman
Randy wanted you to meet your neighbors you never knew you had,"
he added, and they shared a laugh.
The men set to work handing out the food. Once again there was no
pushing or shoving. Everyone was well-mannered and the new men and
critters were allowed to go first by the others. They were shy and
overwhelmed by the different people and strange animals. Billy was
impressed by his resident stomping of Bigfoot
and Daddy Long-legs manners and consideration for their unknown
brothers. Randy took the biggest beast by his huge paw, led him to
the food, and helped him. When he left, he held an arm full of
food and treats. Harlen and Jessie only thought they'd seen it
all. They were awestruck by the meeting of two very different
worlds.
"This is the way it's suppose to be, Jess," Harlen said quietly.
"No argument here, Boss. I have to become a part of this, Master,"
Jessie replied.
"I share your feelings, Brother. I think we found another home,"
Harlen said, "We may never get Daffy and Chloe away from this
place. I ain't seen them so happy and active in a long time. It's
good to see," he added, "Are you ready to play midwife?" Harlen
asked and grinned.
"Might as well. I wear every other damn hat around our place. One
more won't matter," Jessie replied and laughed.
"Yes, and you're so good at changing hats, Friendly," Harlen
complimented his man.
The usual stomping of Bigfoot and Daddy
Long-legs were there including Randy's protector Ludo with his
buddy Leather Face. The big Daddy Long-leg was wearing a pair of
overalls with no shirt and a decent pair of canvas running shoes
with no socks. He looked like he was in better spirits.
<< Nice outfit, little Brother,
>> Billy sent to Randy.
<< They were my uncles. I found them stored away in the loft
of the barn along with my dad's clothes. I gave them to Ludo, and
he took them to Leather Face. Ludo said he cried when he gave them
to him, and said he would thank me at the next Saturday feed and
barnyard concert, >> Randy replied.
<< You done a good thing, Scout. I'm downright proud of you,
youngster. Sometimes it's the most simple gesture what will endear
a man to you for life. You made an imprint on that poor man's
soul, Cowboy. His heart will be yours forever. You done bought and
paid for it with them two simple gifts what ain't worth nothing to
nobody else, >> Billy sent.
<< I hope so. He needs someone to love him and care about
him. I done got me some extra spare change, >> Randy
replied, looked up at Billy, and grinned.
<< Spare change? I'd say you's on the gold standard,
Bossman, >> Billy sent, and they shared a laugh.
* * * * * * *
The giants could communicate mentally with the great beasts and
were having a good time. The Bigfoot were noticeably easy and
comfortable with the huge humanoids; one blue giant and one green
half-Ork. Erin was having a ball working side by side with the
giants. His heart was melancholy with the remembrance of his
husband, but propped up by his joy in being around such huge male
figures; especially, Joe the blue giant. Joe made him feel like he
was Baby Blue again. He even shared with them his story and told
them of the seven wonderful years with his husband Odin Asgard
Bluetooth. For such large creatures, they had big hearts as well,
and empathized with his loss.
"Will you be joining us for the barbecue?" Gog asked Erin.
"I'm to be your chaperon and ranch guide for the afternoon, and
Master Billy gave me permission to break bread with you," Erin
replied.
"Good, we will have you to ourselves for the day. Master Billy
couldn't have assigned us a better looking human. With Master
Billy's permission, would you like to share an evening with us?"
Gog asked.
"I would like that very much, sir," Erin replied.
"Have you had relations with another male since your husband,
Son?" Thor asked.
"Naw, sir, Mr. Thor. I just ain't been interested in nobody male
or female," Erin replied.
"Maybe we're just what you need, Son," Thor said quietly.
"I won't gainsay that, sir. Being around you men has been non-stop
stimulation for me. My old cock ain't stayed this hard since I was
with my husband," Erin agreed.
* * * * * * *
After the stomping of Bigfoot and the Daddy
Long-legs were taken care of, Billy and his men returned to clean
up to get ready for Sunday dinner. Everyone went through the lines
and found a comfortable place to eat. Billy and his men made a
point to sit with his guests from the Castle. Erin was with them.
"Where do these large handsome men live?" Erin asked his master.
"They live in an enormous medieval castle on a great space ship
hidden on the ranch. My pa, Captain Nick,
is the captain of the ship. You ain't been here long enough to
know about it, but since you were so gracious and willing to
chaperon my special guests for the day, we'll take you with us
tonight when we transport to spend the evening in the hot baths of
the dungeon area. There you will get to see them in all their
naked glory," Billy said mischievously.
"I can't imagine such a wonderful thing, but I've learned never to
doubt you, Master Billy. I don't think you would offer something
so appealing, and it not be true. This ain't no job. It's a
slave's holiday. It's a real treat for me, sir," Erin said.
"I like to keep my slaves happy, Brother Mascaro. It keeps them
loyal, dedicated, and hard working," Billy said and Randy giggled.
"You's so full of it, big Brother!" Randy leveled Billy, and
everyone at the table broke up laughing.
"Too pompous for you, little Brother?" Billy asked laughing.
"By a wagon load," Randy replied, and they laughed again.
"Thanks for keep'n me real, Bossman," Billy said.
"Anytime, Brother," Randy replied.
* * * * * * *
Everyone pitched in to help clean up afterward so no one had to
miss the evening's entertainment. It also became a custom to serve
dessert after the concert as opposed to another meal. That way,
everyone had a better share of the time to enjoy the barnyard
concerts. When Kate was satisfied everything was under control she
allowed everyone to mosey on down to the stage area back of the
big barn to find seats.
"You ready, Brother Jessie?" Billy asked on the way down.
"I think so, sir," Jessie replied.
"Good, 'cause you're our opening act for this afternoon. Do you
have several things worked up you can play as encores?" he asked.
"Why, yes, a couple. How many do you want?" Jessie asked.
"Play it by ear," Billy said and laughed, "I ain't kidding. You
judge, but always leave them wanting more," he added and winked.
"I understand," Jessie said.
"I'll announce the Bartok Etudes, but I'll let you explain your
encores," Billy allowed.
"What if they don't like my playing?" Jessie asked and smiled.
"Then you turn your back to them, drop your Wranglers, and show
them your ass," Billy said, and they fell together laughing.
Harlen was listening and damn near choked to death laughing.
"I've actually wanted to do that a couple of times," Jessie said
laughing.
"Who hasn't?" Billy asked in reply, and they laughed harder.
The laughter and the easy camaraderie of Billy Daniels made any
stage fright vanish from Jessie's mind. He never felt more sure of
himself or his talent.
Billy went on stage and welcomed everyone. He cracked a few jokes
and the audience laughed dutifully or groaned when one was a
stinker. "This afternoon we are fortunate to have a new talent me
and my little brother discovered a couple of days ago. We begged
and pleaded, got down on our knees and shed many tears to convince
him to come and break in our brand new Yamaha Concert Grand we
bought for our concert stage. Fortunately, for all of us here this
afternoon, he graciously consented to come and play for us. He
will play for us Three Etudes Opus 18 by Bela Bartok. A word about
Bartok's music: you will not go away humming a catchy tune, but
you will hear music what's got muscles on its body and hair on its
balls," Billy said and grinned. He waited for the audience to stop
laughing, "Furthermore, the technical expertise required to play
these pieces is overwhelmingly staggering. These three pieces
ain't for no beginners. Sun Bears, pay special attention to the
cross-rhythms of these pieces and the dance-like meters which
inspired them. I've heard similar dissonant melodies and
cross-rhythms in your folk dances. The same applies for our
village musicians and folk dancers. It would seem these traits
just might be universal. Without anymore of my nonsense, I give
you Master Jessie Jones," Billy said loudly and began to applaud
for Jessie.
The audience broke into applause and welcomed Jessie on stage.
Jessie wore his cowboy clothes including his hat. He was a bit
shocked by the crowd and the cows lined up behind them. There were
hundreds of people and critters to say nothing of the stomping of
Bigfoot and Daddy Long-legs in the balcony
limestone seats on the other side of the river. Rather than being
overwhelmed, Jessie saw it as a perfect setting. He would have no
problem. He took off his big hat and set it on the piano. He sat
down, adjusted the seat, and began to play. The audience was
stunned by the shear virtuosity of Jessie's playing. They knew
their own musicians were good, but this man was a powerhouse of
undiscovered talent. Jessie finished the first Etude and went into
the second without much pause. Billy's audience was getting more
sophisticated and didn't just jump up applauding at the end of
every movement. They waited for their master to begin applauding
and then jumped on the bandwagon. When Jessie finished the last
movement there was a stunned silence came over the audience. Billy
was so stunned he forgot to applaud. Zelma Jane jumped up, lifted
her fist over her head and yelled at the top of her voice,
"Hosanna!"
Everyone jumped from their seats, raised their fist over their
heads and answered, "Hosanna, in the highest!" Then, they broke
into a standing ovation and wouldn't let Jessie leave the stage.
"More! Encore! More!" they yelled among their applause. Harlen
nodded to his man, grinned from ear to ear, and winked. Jessie
never experienced such a reaction from his playing. The 'hosanna'
bit damn near dislocated his soul from its socket, and coming from
none other than the Grand Dame of
Houston's highest social upper crust A-list, was overwhelming for
the tall, well-proportioned cowboy. Jessie walked over to the stage mike and thanked everyone. "I will be
happy and proud to play another piece for you. The next piece will
be by the same composer, Bela Bartok, and it is his Sonata for
Piano. While the Etude's are flashy technical pieces meant to test
a pianist mettle, Bartok's Sonata is more of a concert piece. It
is even more indicative of his use of folk dance melodies and
cross-rhythms. It is in three movements," Jessie said and returned
to the piano.
Jessie was right. While the Etudes captured the audience's need
for technical bravado, the Sonata captured their hearts as a lyric
and never ending change of tempos and cross-rhythms. The Sun Bears
were captivated. So were the village people. It was as if the
music was speaking directly to their feet. There was no pause when
Jessie finished the last movement. The entire place was on their
feet cheering and shouting 'hosannas,' applauding, whistling,
stomping boots and hooves, hats being tossed in the air. Jessie
never played for such a receptive audience. He expected only a
polite applause but this crowd of mixed critters and humans were
going bananas yelling for him to play another piece. They wanted
to hear more and weren't going to take 'no' for an answer.
Billy nodded to him and Jessie went to the stage mike again.
"Gees, ain't never got such an ovation for my playing. Thank you
very much," he said and they cheered again for him, "I'll play one
more piece and then I should give way to other performers Master
Billy has scheduled for this afternoon. The last piece is
something altogether different written by a composer in Spain
almost six hundred years ago, Domenico Scarlatti, his Sonata K.
1," Jessie said and walked back to the piano. Jessie ripped off
the piece like it was a walk in the park, and it was his ice cream
cone on a warm afternoon. It was just the right chaser, a dessert
or aperitif from the Bartok. It was perfect and the crowd when
crazy again. After several bows, Jessie left the stage.
"Thanks, Brother. Now! How in the Hell do you expect us to follow
your act!" Billy said as a compliment and laughed.
"That was nothing short of phenomenal, Jess," he added.
"Thanks. Coming from you, it means a lot," Jessie said.
"Next time you play Rachmaninoff's Theme
and Variations," Billy said.
"You got an orchestra?" Jessie asked.
"No, but my little brother's got one in his back pocket. I shit
chu' not, Brother. I'll conduct," Billy said and laughed.
"I never played it with an orchestra, but I'd love to. You're on,
Cowboy!" Jessie said, and they shook hands.
Jessie walked out front to take a seat and was met by the Grand
Dame Redbone herself. She offered her hand and escorted Jessie to
a seat on the front row next to her. Harlen was sitting on her
other side. The audience applauded for him again, Jessie took
another bow, and sat down. "I'm looking forward to your
Rachmaninoff, young man," Zelma said and grinned.
"When?" Harlen asked.
"Next weekend. Here! Don't be late!" Zelma replied like the voice
of authority.
Harlen grinned and winked at Jessie.
There were four more classical pieces performed. Aunt Helen, Roz,
and Kayla worked up a Haydn trio for piano, cello, and viola. It
was originally for violin but Roz transposed it, and it worked
fine. It was a lovely piece very well suited for the occasion.
They got a standing ovation. Vox Humana played a couple of Debussy
preludes, and Billy played the Stravinsky Etudes again.
The next acts were the Village Musicians and dancers including the
Sun Bears and their folk dances. They were received with much
enthusiasm. On and on the afternoon went with dance after dance
and ancient pieces by the musicians themselves. Everyone was in a
great mood. It was one of the most fondly discussed Barnyard
Concert anyone could remember. After the Village Musicians and the
wonderful Sun Bears, Billy called for a brief intermission before
they started the final country Cajun music part of the concert.
Everyone was milling about talking about the performances. Those
who needed to take a restroom break did so. Then everyone gathered
and the music began again. It was the part of the program which
seemed to unite them into a grand family unit.
Billy installed a huge video screen over the stage, they would
play old favorite songs, and the words would flash across the
screen. Everyone would be encouraged to sing along. When you had
hundreds of people, creatures, and cows singing along it became an
overwhelmingly moving sound. Even the Bigfoot and Daddy Long-legs
were joining in the fun. The giants had deep bass voices and so
did many of the Bigfoot. It gave a ground to the total sound which
seemed to touch everyone's soul at their deepest point. It was a
most remarkable experience for everyone. The highlight of the
country portion of every concert was the dancing cows. Everyone
stood and looked back as the musicians joined to play the Virgina
Reel and several other Reels they worked up. It was a joyful sight
to behold and Harlen and Jessie couldn't believe their eyes. It
was yet another experience on the Daniels' ranch for which they
were totally unprepared.
* * * * * *
The Barnyard Concert came to an end and everyone left to return to
their quarters or Captain Nick's ship. Billy said his goodbye to
the giants and promised he would bring young Erin Mascaro with him
and his men, and 'yes' the young well-built slave could stay the
night with them if he wanted. Billy and his immediate family and
Erin, retired to the patio next to the big house to have dessert
and refreshments. Billy made an announcement the men would be
leaving shortly after dessert for Captain Nick's ship. He didn't
have to say 'what for.' They knew what an invitation to the ship
after hours meant: herb laced tea and long languid soaks in the
steam and hot waters of the dungeon baths. The men wasted no time
going through the gate Randy produced and arrived in the dungeon.
The red light motif was on and it gave the place and eerie look.
It looked like Hell. Erin Mascaro took one look and grinned at
Billy. "This is where them demons brought Harley-Buck, ain't it?"
he asked as a rhetorical question for
which he already knew the answer.
"Smart man," Billy said and winked at him, as he shucked off his
Wranglers.
"Can we get comfortable or do we have to follow good manners
protocol, Master Billy?" Jethro asked.
"Naw, we's just family tonight, Project Manager. Besides, Kagoli
form is protocol on this ship. Look where it got you," Billy said
and everyone laughed.
Erin watched in awe as Jethro and Oatie morphed into their Kagoli
demon forms. "Holy shit!" he said, "They were the demons. Where's
the big daddy Devil Harley-Buck told me about?" Erin asked.
"You was with him all afternoon. I done caught you holding his
hand and swap'n a little spit with him," Billy accused, slapped
his naked knee, and fell out laughing.
"Gog! My handsome friendly giant?" Erin said and started blushing
a deep red color. Everyone was laughing at him and Billy.
"That's right. When they get here, I'll have him morph for you, if
you like," Billy said,"He makes an impressive Satan," he added.
"I'd love to see that," Erin said. The more clothes Erin took off
the other men stopped undressing to look at him. His body was
flawless. He was perfect and he regained much of his muscle mass
in the short time he was on the ranch. That's why Billy assigned
him to the slave keeper unit. He could get the most out of them to
get their bodies in top shape. The men looked at Erin and shook
their heads. They swore to each other to start using their home
gyms again. Everyone was naked as the day they were born and
headed for the large pools of hot water when a great knocking
sound came from one of the entry doors across the steaming hot
water.
"That must be the giants. They came down the back stairway from
their apartments. Usually that door is left open. Erin, walk
around the pool, throw back that arm-drop locking the door shut,
and open it for them," Billy said.
Erin didn't hesitate and walked around the outside of the pool to
the door, raised the heavy metal bar, and moved it on its pivot to
the unlocked position. He grabbed the latch, pushed down, and felt
the door latch open. The naked young man pulled the heavy door
open and standing on the other side was another completely naked
man Odin Asgard Bluetooth, his husband.
End of Chapter 57 ~ Seek Him Who Maketh The Seven Stars
Copyright ~ © ~ 2013 ~ 2014 ~Waddie
Greywolf
All Rights Reserved ~
WC = 17981
08/23/2013
10/15/2014
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