WACO’S
LUMMOX
By
Waddie Greywolf
Chapter
45
After Jesse,
Utah and Brett Jones vanished, Scudder told Del Hawkins he wanted to be
alone for a while. Del excused himself and left. Later in
the evening Jerry sent for Hawkins.
“We can’t find
him, Sir.” said Officer Krause. “I looked in his room and found a note
on his desk. It said he would be gone for several days and if you
should ask for him, to remind you of your agreement for him to take
some time off to visit a sick relative.”
Scudder was a
bit bemused, but quickly caught on to his Commander’s hidden message
within his note.
“Uh, yeah,
that’s right. Glad you reminded me. I told him he could
take some time to get away and visit his family. Let me know when
he returns and send him to me.” Jerry smiled to himself. He
had no doubt Delbert Hawkins was with his young Temple Guard brother
wherever they took him. He knew Hawkins and Jones developed a
father/son bonding and Del looked out for his younger buddy.
Jerry felt comforted someone he trusted was with Jones. He missed
both of them, but he felt he’d done the right thing.
* * * * * * *
Officer Brett
Jones knew he wasn’t in heaven. Things were strange.
Strange beyond belief, but he knew he was still alive and somewhere on
Earth or near it,— perhaps, another dimension. He couldn’t be
sure, but he knew he was in good hands. He just felt it. He
was being fussed over and taken care of by several handsome, perfectly
formed naked men attending to his every need. They were taking
blood samples and running test of all kinds. The big, good looking
cowboy named Jesse gave him a feeling of ease and a sense of peace and
well being. Brett came from folks like Jesse represented.
He projected the ultimate father figure for Jones. He was simple,
somewhat grizzled, but with a deep abiding sense of strength to him
that Brett trusted beyond measure. Jesse’s companion, whether he
was a handsome nude man or a dog, gave him courage and emanated
unconditional love. Even when Utah was in human form, Jones had
an uncontrollable urge to pet him. He was overwhelmed by the
feelings of care that flowed easily from everyone. Not only were
they concerned for him, they were concerned for each other. He
was told to lie still and relax in the bed where he found himself
transported. They would see to him shortly. They still had
several tests they wanted to complete before they had a full picture of
his damage and how best to go about treating him. Jesse suggested
they might have to try some radical procedures. Jones could hear
voices.
“Thanks for
bringing the kids, Mr. and Mrs. Steele. I think they might
be able to help us with our patient.” Jesse spoke to Sonny and Vivian
Steele.
“Well, them two
rascals just guzzled a gallon or more of Horse’s milk and their bellies
are swelled up like two ticks what just feasted on an old hound dog,
but they said they wanted to try if you thought they could be of
some help.”
Jones could see
a family with a fine looking, middle aged cowboy, his wife and two
young kids. He couldn’t believe his eyes. Jones recognized
the cowboy as Sonny Steele the famous champion rodeo cowboy. He
thought it was strange though, because the kids were naked, but then,
several folks around the place were not wearing clothes. No one
seemed to take notice. Everyone acted like it was just an
accepted part of their culture. Some wore clothes, others
didn’t. The kids were hugging and kissing everyone including the
big naked men who were taking care of Officer Jones. His
caretakers stopped what they were doing to greet and welcome the
children.
What he saw next
shook him to his core. Another, slightly older cowboy, who looked
like an older brother of Sonny Steele’s walked up behind them closely
escorted by an enormously hairy monster of a man. They called the
big furry man ‘Horse.’ He looked like pictures and drawings Jones
had seen of a Bigfoot. The kids ran to the big man-beast and
leaped into his waiting arms. They were kissing him and rubbing
his fur, laughing and obviously glad to see him. As he held one
in each enormous arm, he kissed them back and had a big smile on his
face. The kids called the cowboy accompanying the huge beast
‘granddad.’ Could he be Sonny’s father? No, he was much too
young. Then he heard Sonny call the man ‘dad’ and he knew the man
named ‘Warren Steele’ must be Sonny’s father.
The perfect nude
man, Officer Jones’ main caretaker, whom they called ‘Cable,’ seemed to
be in charge and had two older cowboys who were conferring with
him. One was called Captain Jones, the other Cable called Admiral
Long and sometimes ‘father.’ It was hard for Brett Jones to
imagine Cable as Long’s son, but the other naked men called him
‘father’ as well. He was puzzled, but he was told not to speak or
ask questions; all would be revealed to him in time. Their first
priority was to save his life and repair his body.
They transferred
him to a Gurney which seemed to float in the air without any support,
but it moved freely when someone pushed it. They placed him in a
dark room with many electronic gadgets he never saw before. They
stood on the other side of a thick glass wall talking about what they
were seeing on the screen imbedded in the glass. He could see his
own brain in a three dimensional holographic representation. He
could see where a blood vessel ruptured and the darkening tissue of his
brain from blood that flowed into the surrounding area.
“See that
darkened area, Adam?” Jesse spoke to the young boy he was holding in
his arms as he pointed it out to him with his free hand.
“Yes, Sir,
Master Jesse.” the boy replied quietly. “I see where he’s
bleeding.”
“You mean the
tear in his vessel? Good. Good. I was going to get to
that next. Do you think you can heal his wound and manage to push
the blood out through his nose?”
“You mean flush
it out— like, with a liquid?”
“Exactly,
Son. If we don’t get that blood out of there it’s going to make a
large portion of the man’s brain go soft and he will die for
sure. We’re only keeping him alive now through artificial means.”
“No problem,
Sir. Be happy to. Anything for you and Utah, Master Jesse.”
Jones had no
idea what they were talking about. How could a five year old
child heal his brain and flush out the blood?
“Can I
help?” begged the little girl as she came along side Jesse and
took his free hand.
“We couldn’t do
it without you, Eve. While Adam is working on his brain, we’d
like you to take control of his body, keep him alive and awake during
the procedure and keep him as comfortable as possible. Do you
think you can do that for us, sweetheart?”
“Sure, Master
Jesse. No problem. I’ll keep everything working.”
“Okay.
Time to go to work. We’ll follow on the holo-grid screen and
Captain Jones will tell you if you’ve missed anything. We’ll be
in constant communication with you and Officer Jones.”
Jesse led the
children into the room where Cable and David were propping up Brett
Jones into a sitting position. They had a table with metal pans
to catch any blood and swabs to wipe his nose. To Jones’
amazement he watched the children disappear into thin air, but they
seemed to leave behind a thin cloud of dust-like particles he could see
moving about like they were alive. Jesse explained to Jones.
“If you haven’t
guessed by now, the Steele children, Adam and Eve, are of another race,
Officer Jones. Mr. Steele and his lovely wife adopted them on a
pleasure cruise to Mars about a year ago and they’ve acclimated
themselves quite readily to their new parents and the folks, with
which, they live. They have several remarkable special abilities
as you just
witnessed. They are going to help us repair your body. They
will communicate with you when they get inside you. Just relax
and let them help you. Are you ready, Officer Jones?”
“I guess.
How are they going to get inside me?”
“Make yourself
comfortable and take a deep breath. Inhale slowly and deeply.”
Brett Jones had
his reservations; however, he did as he was told and could see the fine
particles moving through the air into his nares and could feel them in
his lungs. He immediately felt himself beginning to relax and a
wonderful, euphoric feeling came over him. It felt like someone
gently but lovingly took control of his body and portions of his
brain. He heard a couple of small giggles in his mind. Was
he imagining it?
<< Hello,
Officer Jones. >> he recognized the unmistakable young voice of
the little female they called ‘Eve.’ << You have a fine, strong
body. You’re much too young and in excellent condition to be
allowed to die. >> he heard Eve compliment him.
<< Thank
you, Eve. >> his thought projected to her, << I don’t want
to die unless absolutely necessary. Is that you making me feel so
good? >>
<< Yes,
Sir. My brother is getting into your blood system and will be at
the tear in your blood vessel within your brain in a few minutes.
I’m going to relax you. I’ve taken over all your body
functions. Would you like an erection, Sir? >>
<< Uh, not
right now, dear, but thanks for asking. Maybe later.
>> Brett chuckled and heard her laugh again. Others
must have been listening in on their conversation as several of the men
laughed at their exchange. << Do you do that for others, Eve?
>> Brett asked out of curiosity.
<< Oh,
sure. We lie with daddy and mommy all the time. It helps
them and it helps me and Adam know how mating is suppose to go when
we’re older and it comes time for us to take a mate and breed,— but,
not with each other. >> She added with another little
laugh.
<< I’m at
the break in his vessel, Master Jesse. >> Brett heard a male
voice in his head.
<< Do you
think you can repair it, Adam? >> Bret heard Jesse send to the
boy.
<< Piece
a’ cake, Sir. Fixing it now. Taking some of my tissue and
DNA material and piecing it in. It will take a few minutes to
stop the flow of blood. I’ll let you know. >>
The men didn’t
have to hear it from Adam. Neither did Jones. He could see
from the holo-grid projection the tissue was being quickly replaced and
repaired and the flow of blood slowly became stanched.
<< Good
boy, Adam! >> congratulated Captain Jones. << Ain’t never
seen me nothing so fine and marvelous as that, Son. You done
good, cowboy, but we ain’t out of the woods yet. Think you’ll
have any problems irrigating the blood from his brain? >>
<< Can I
have two pieces of cake, Sir? One for me and one for my sister?
>>
<< And all
the lummox milk you can drink. >> came another voice. The
booming voice of their Uncle Horse.
<<
Awe-right! >> exclaimed Adam. It took about an hour for the
boy to flush out all the blood from Officer Jones’ brain. Adam
kept insisting his blood was different from most humans, and he didn’t
think it would hurt him to leave it where it was. He thought it
would eventually be absorbed back into his system, but Jesse was
unsure. He wanted it flushed. Adam worked quickly and
skillfully as the dark blood poured from Officer Jones’ nose into a
waiting metal pan Cable held for him.
<< Don’t
throw it away, gentlemen. >> Captain Jones instructed Cable and
his assistants handling Jones’ blood. << Portions of the fluid
are part of Adam which he will reclaim when he extracts himself from
our patient. >> They continued to take care of Jones until
they heard Adam declare he thought he cleaned all of the blood from his
brain. Nothing was coming forth from the officer’s nose but clear
fluid.
<< We
can’t see a thing on the holo-grid, Adam. You and Eve have done a
wonderful job. Come out and we’ll make sure you get some
cake. You and Eve certainly deserves a treat. >>
Jesse said with all the love in his heart.
Officer Jones
could see Adam as he breathed him out from his body a little at a
time. More of the boy continued to flow as clear fluid from his
nose. The boy began to reform himself from the fluids mixed with
the blood in the gauze, from liquid collected in the pans and from the
material being exhaled by Jones’ breath. Then he felt Eve let go
of his autonomic functions and release his brain stem. He was
breathing and relaxing on his own. He saw her escape his lungs
next. The children settled next to him in his bed and enveloped
him in a cocoon of their love. Jones never felt anything so
wonderful in his life. For the first time in his life he felt
like he belonged to someone, something, to the world in which he found
himself. Tears were streaming down his face from the love he felt
from these remarkable children. He heard Sonny Steele laugh and
then speak to him.
“They take a
little get’n used to, Son. Not to worry. They do that all
the time with us. It’s jes' their way of joining and sharing
their love with another. We have no choice but to share ours with
them.”
“You are truly
blessed to have such wonderful children, Mr. Steele.” Officer
Jones whispered to Sonny.
“Thank you,
Sir. We’re right proud of them. Couldn’t love ‘em more if
they came from our bodies, and— sometimes they do. If they get
really frightened, they crawl inside us and hide.” replied Sonny with a
smile.
About that time
a parade of other cowboys walked into sickbay followed by other strange
creatures and animals. Following them was a large, ornate
football shaped object that seemed to contain hundreds of different
colored glowing crystals. The two lead cowboy were perfect
twins. They looked exactly alike. The children let go of
him, reformed and ran naked to the two cowboys as fast as their little
legs would carry them.
“Waco!
Indigo Blue!” they shouted as the jumped into their arms. There
was much hugging and stolen kisses and all the cowboys and critters
made over Adam and Eve. Then there were four younger cowboys
about the same age as the two strange kids that healed Jones
accompanied by two more huge lummox critters and several dogs who could
speak. They all looked like they were one large family— the most
remarkable family Brett Jones ever experienced. He was in awe of
them and the love they radiated for each other. He longed to be a
part of their family.
“We heard you
guys was heroes and help save this handsome officer’s life.” said the
twin they called ‘Waco.’
“We weren’t no
heroes, Captain Waco. We’s just help’n out Master Jesse and
Utah.” said Adam. Waco grabbed him up and gave him a hug and a
kiss and did the same with Eve.
“Well, to us
you’re both heroes, and I’ll bet you’d have a hard time convincing
officer Jones otherwise. I know all the grownups are proud of
you.” Waco assured them.
The quieter of
the two twins, Indigo Blue, approached Brett Jones and took his
hand. Jones felt a surge like an electric shock run through his
body. Did all these people have special powers? Indigo Blue
smiled at him as if he read his mind.
“Most of the
younger generation have some powers. We’re learning more every
day as we teach each other.” said Blue. “May I place my hand on
your forehead, Sir?” Blue asked.
“Sure.” Jones
said weakly. Blue slowly placed his hand on Jones’ forehead and
Brett could see a blue light emanating from under the cowboy’s hand.
“Is that why
they call you ‘Blue?’” he asked.
“Exactly,
Sir. See those beautiful crystals in that case floating next to
your bed?”
“Yes, Sir.”
“They are my
birth family and my brother Indigo, who resides in this body with me,
is a spark who came from my brother Waco. We are a conjoined
specie in a cloned body. Say ‘hello’ to our new brother, Indigo.”
Blue said quietly.
“Hello, brother
Jones. Welcome to our strange world.” Another voice
sounding exactly like Waco’s came out of the same body.
“You’re two
beings inside one body?” Jones asked.
“That’s
right. It took us a while to adjust, but once we did everything
worked out for the best. We’ve sort of become, for lack of a
better term, an interspecies chimera. Beauty and the beast.
My handsome brother ‘Blue’ is the beauty, and I provide the beast
part.” laughed Indigo. Everyone laughed.
“It’s really
quite the other way around, Officer Jones.” quickly commented Blue.
It was
amazing. Jones could actually tell the difference in the two’s
speech patterns. Blue continued, “My birth family would like to
remain with you for a while. They will sing to you and heal
you. Relax, learn their songs and their language. Don’t try
to sing with them yet. You need to rest and heal first and then
you may indulge yourself. We’ll also bring the Kodaly family to
sing with you if you like. They are excellent musicians and we’re
fortunate to have them as part of our extended family. The rest
of these critters and cowboy yahoos we’ll introduce to you later.
They are all part of our family.”
Suddenly six
faces appeared whom Jones immediately recognized. Two were
Officer Brick Armstrong and his mate Timmy. They were followed by
Stan Edmonds, Jimmy-Bob Dodge, another Temple guard he knew as Ernie
Shields accompanied by a fine looking middle-aged cowboy, and Jones’
beloved Commander Del Hawkins. Hawkins got to him first and took
him into his arms and sobbed to see him looking so well. It was
almost more than Jones could handle. He started sobbing, too.
“Be brief,
gentlemen.” Cable interrupted, “We have to clear everyone out and
induce a deep sleep for Officer Jones. He needs time to rest and
recover. Our friends the Kryscells will stand watch with him and
help him rest.” he said humbly but with concern. Del Hawkins
spoke to him.
“I’ll be here
for a couple of days to visit with you and help you through this.
The holy prophet doesn’t know exactly where I am, but he knows I’m with
you. He won’t say nothing. He knows I had to come and be
with you, Son. He knows how much I love you.”
“I love you,
too, Sir. Thank all these wonderful folks for being concerned and
helping me. I’ll try to live my life in such a manner to make
them proud of me.”
“They know that,
Officer Jones. You rest and we’ll see you tomorrow.”
Everyone left
except the naked men in the clinic they called ‘sickbay.’ Was he
on some kind of ship? And what of these crystals that were
playing their lights over his body? He closed his eyes, relaxed
and listened. He could barely hear a sound of someone singing
from far away. It was a single voice. He could only hear
fragments of the song until it seemed to get closer. Another
voice joined the first and made perfect sense as an
accompaniment. The more he could hear of the excellent music and
singing the more he relaxed until he was drifting into nothingness;
yet, it wasn’t nowhere. He began to see the forms and shapes of
the crystals singing to him, the geometric and harmonic progressions as
one voice led into another and one tonality piled on top of another to
go from dominant to subdominant and back in a slowly, powerful cascade
of sounds. He never experienced such euphoria,— such a sense of
well-being. It was even better than his trances he created for
himself when he sang in the cathedral. He could no longer control
his body and felt himself starting to lift from his bed. He felt
several firm hands grab him and lower him back to the bed. He
didn’t open his eyes but he heard a voice in his head.
<< You are
not to levitate until you are better, Officer Jones. You’re
hearing my voice. I am Cable, in charge of sickbay and you must
obey me. You must remain immobile for at least three, twenty-four
hour periods. If the Kryscells cause you to levitate we will have
to terminate their therapy. >>
“No, no,
Sir. Please. I will learn to control it. Don’t ask
them to go away. They are much too beautiful. I have only
tasted their wisdom and beauty. I’m just beginning to learn, and
eventually I must sing with them. I promise. I will remain
in bed for the time you require. It isn’t too long to wait.
I’m sorry. I’ve just never tried to control it before, but with
their help, I know I can.” Jones opened his eyes to look into the
most caring pair of eyes he ever saw. Cable smiled at him and
gently put his hand on Jones’ shoulder to comfort him.
“I have faith in
you, Officer Jones.” Cable spoke softly.
“Are you human,
Mr. Cable?” Jones asked shyly.
“No, but I am
the son of Lazarus Long; so are my brothers David and Jonathan.
Relax, all will be revealed to you.” was all Cable offered. He
looked deeply into Jones’ eyes, winked, turned and walked from the
room. Brett smiled to himself at the mystery of Cable’s words as
he made himself comfortable.
Once again he
heard the voices of the Kryscellians calling to him. He projected
to them his fear of levitating again. To his surprise they sent
to him an anchor. He didn’t know any other way to describe it,
but it was a tether to bind his soul when he became overwhelmed with
his incredible lightness of being. He understood it to be a
gift,— a treasured gift he would use many times to overcome his
helplessness during bouts of uncontrolled ecstasy. He didn’t know
how it worked, but it did. He even let go a couple of times to
check and would feel the covers on his bed begin to rise. He
immediately used his new found anchor to counteract the feeling and
instantly dropped back into his bed. He silently sang his thanks
to the gracious crystals. He was in awe of them and settled for
tears streaming down his face as they sang to him and healed him.
* * * * * * *
Delbert Hawkins
and those caring for Officer Jones were the only people allowed to
visit him during his three day period of forced rest by Cable as
instructed by Jesse, Captain Arlen Jones, and Lazarus. He was to
have no other visitors. They insisted he be kept quiet and sleep
as much as he could. He was only allowed to sit up for
eating. They fed him the most wonderful foods. It was
simple but tasty and nourishing. They gave him a milk to drink
that was thick, sweet and also very good. It tasted like liquid
vanilla ice cream. It was delicious. He asked Cable about
it.
“It’s lummox
milk.” Cable told him. “It’s one of nature’s most complete
foods. It is already rearranging things in you body that are not
up to standards or have become faulty. You will never have
another aneurism. It will also give you the ability to
communicate mentally with some folks and most critters.”
Jones felt
himself healing quickly. The Kryscellians were his constant
companions, and he couldn’t get enough of them. They would leave
him for brief periods to be alone with his own thoughts. It was
like those periods were carefully planned for him to digest what he was
learning and for his body to take a small rest from the work of
healing. When he began to long for them, they always reappeared
to sing for him again. The second afternoon, after taking some
blood and analyzing it Cable called Jesse and Admiral Long into sickbay
for a conference. The men looked grave, but Cable seemed
confident. They came into his room and Jesse Watkins spoke to him.
“We’ve
discovered something about your DNA we weren’t expecting. We
should’ve listened more carefully to Adam when he told us about your
blood, but we thought he was too young and inexperienced to know what
he was talking about. I will never make that mistake again.”
explained Jesse seriously. “There’s still time to correct the
anomaly, but we need to discuss it with you first.”
“Is it something
bad, Sir?” Jones asked concerned.
“It depends on
how you look at it. In essence, Adam found the reason for your
abilities to levitate, heal people with your blood and by laying on of
hands. Unfortunately, there’s nothing miraculous about it, but
because it’s so rare, new to you and those who experience your amazing
ability, it certainly might qualify as miraculous to anyone who knows
nothing about evolution and the way it works. The truth of the
matter is, it’s in your DNA. You have the power to heal yourself
as well as others. Your blood can heal because when your DNA
comes in contact with another human, even by absorption through the
skin by means of any and all bodily fluids, from minute traces of
perspiration to waste, you can control their DNA to cause them to
heal. You can do it one of two ways; either by manipulating their
DNA or causing yours to interact with theirs to heal them. Your
DNA is so pervasive the mere touch of your hand will pass enough of
your genetic information to another person to enable you to heal
them. Naturally, until now you’ve been unaware of this ability
because you do it subconsciously, but you can be taught and learn to do
it consciously.”
“Is that how you
heal others, Sir?”
“One of the
ways, yes. In that way, you and I are brothers; however, I use
combinations which I can teach you. I used the talents of Adam
and Eve with you. In another instance I used the innate healing
powers of a young man to heal his mother with his gift of song.
You have the same remarkable ability. In that way you and he are
brothers. Utah’s gifts helped me heal your prophet. I could
have healed you myself, but I couldn’t rid your brain of your blood
without help. Adam tried to tell us, your blood probably didn’t
need to be excised; you may have been able to cause yourself to absorb
the blood. I considered it at the time, but I didn’t want to take
the chance.
We didn’t know
about your blood anomaly, because nothing showed up on your lab
work. It wouldn’t unless we ran a DNA sequence and there was no
reason for us to do so. That’s another lesson we learned from
you. From now on, we will immediately run a DNA sequence as part
of any patient’s lab work. Perhaps I should have guessed, but the
condition occurs so rarely I failed to consider it. You couldn’t
have known about it either, but I’m confident you can learn to control
it, just like the Kryscellians have taught you to adjust your ability
to levitate.
“Why did this
ability come upon me at this time in my life, Sir? Why ain’t I
been able to do these things all my life?”
“Good question,
and there’s an answer for that. You’ve always been able to adapt
your DNA, but you just never knew about it and may never have known
until you ran into someone with slightly different DNA. It
happened when you began to mess around with your holy prophet.
When Utah and I brought him back to life we passed onto him some of our
DNA; however, while he absorbed enough to give him some powers a human
wouldn’t ordinarily have, his body rejected most of it. As time
goes on he’ll retain less and less, but he has enough he passed some of
our DNA on to you.
Long story
short, you have a type of DNA rarely found in humans. It hasn’t
been recorded in several thousand years. It is a highly adaptable
form of DNA which you may have some ability to control; however,
without
that knowledge, if we left you alone, there was a better than
ninety-eight percent chance you would’ve died and remained dead without
our help with a jump-start. We couldn’t allow that to
happen. We’ve been following your progress through Commander
Hawkins and several of your brother officers who love you very much.
There is,
however, a dark side to your anomaly. You are also capable of
shutting down a person’s system and terminating them like some
legendary creatures of old. I doubt that will ever happen with
you, because you place too high a value on life of any kind.
You’re far more interested in giving of yourself through healing and
saving lives. If we thought otherwise we wouldn’t have revived
you.
Now I must tell
you what has happened. By intermingling small amounts of his
tissue and fluids with yours, Adam has inadvertently given you his DNA
information. A normal human body would have seen his patch as a
temporary fix, quickly replaced it with its own DNA created tissue and
ultimately rejected his. The same would happen with his
fluids. Your DNA is so adaptable it can take on new information
and transform yours into something totally new. What? We
don’t know. In essence, your DNA is comparable to a walking
sponge, or it may even be possible for you to meta-physically change
your own DNA.”
“You mean I
could just think about becoming a certain way and my DNA would make my
body do it?”
“Theoretically,
yes. It’s within the framework of possibility— absolutely.
You can cause the stigmatas in your hands, feet and side. Then
you can heal them as quickly. You cause it to happen whether
you’re aware or not.”
“Could I make
myself better looking, Sir?”
“Why improve on
perfection, Son? You have developed your body to rival that of a
young Greek god.” Jesse smiled at Officer Jones.
“They don’t call
me ‘Dumbo’ for nothing, Sir. I know it’s because of my big ears,
but it’s also because I ain’t the brightest penny in the jar. It
hurts.” Jones said quietly.
“Did you know
before you discovered your extraordinary talents the Board of Officers
felt you weren’t working out as an officer and were going to transfer
you to another outfit? Your brother officers made an appeal
directly to your holy prophet not to approve their
recommendation. They loved you enough to place their own careers
in jeopardy by going over the heads’ of the board to keep you on with
them.”
“Naw, Sir, no
one told me about that. They did that for me? Are you
sure?” Jones was surprised and stunned as a bemused look broke across
his face.
“They certainly
did— everyone of them— to a man. I can show you video of it if
you don’t believe me.” Jesse placed his hand on Brett’s shoulder to
confirm. He continued, “I dare say there’s been a lot less jokes
made since you’ve been healing folks to say nothing of your singing
talents. Your commander tells me what once was a name of
derision, ‘Dumbo’ has now become a term of endearment in the sight of
your fellow officers. Even now, they are praying for you
around the clock in staggered prayer vigils. Their prayers are
earnest and being heard across the universe. But if it is such a
burden for you— yes, with some guidance and practice, you can change
even that.” Jesse assured him.
“Is that how you
can change Utah into a human and back again?”
“Exactly.” Jesse
admitted, “Only, Utah has the power to do it for himself, if he
wants. I’ve taught him. He knows how. He just never
has cared to exercise his option. It's been known for thousands
of years by more advanced civilizations human DNA is like a biological
Internet which can be influenced and reprogrammed by words and
frequencies. DNA is not only responsible for the construction of
your body, but also serves as data storage and communication.
Some have referred to it as genetic or sometimes incorrectly as eidetic
memory. In effect, the genetic code follows the same basic rules
as human languages. Human language did not appear coincidentally
but is a reflection of our DNA— which begs the age old question— which
begat what, the chicken or the cluck?” Jesse chuckled. He
continued his explanation. “Assuming there is a supreme being,
if, in the beginning, the word was God and man was made in God’s image,
it makes sense that man must be the mirror image of that God.
That was one of the more striking messages of the Gospel of Thomas,
that God is not separate but abides within all men. The early
Greek philosopher Epicurus was one of the first to understand that the
Gods men worshiped are to be found in their own invention.
Thus they had only but to hold up a mirror to metaphorically see their
God.
Living
chromosomes are capable of functioning just like a holographic computer
using endogenous DNA laser radiation. This means they are able
to modulate certain frequency patterns— sounds, music and
language— onto laser-like rays which influence DNA frequency and
thus the genetic information itself. Since the basic structure of
DNA-alkaline pairs and language is of the same structure, no DNA
decoding is necessary. One can simply use words and sentences of
the human language. Of course, the frequency has to be correct,
but that's where teaching and learning comes in. We can instruct
you how to reprogram your DNA, or others, through language and musical
frequencies. In effect, we will teach you to remember
yourself. That probably won’t make a lot of sense to you right
now, but it will in time.” Jesse smiled at him.
“Then what
you’re trying to tell me is, I’m becoming like Adam and Eve, isn’t it,
Sir?” Brett asked.
“Yes, Son.
Cable’s findings are irrefutable, but I have the ability to make it
right, to cancel it out if you wish, but it must be done as soon as
possible before it’s too late. Since my decision was directly
responsible for this error, I must in all good conscience make you the
offer to correct my mistake.”
“You have no
idea what I might become?” Brett asked quietly.
“None
whatsoever. One can only speculate when you’re dealing with
something as tenuous as specie DNA. One specie may become
dominant over the other or you may become a hybrid with the best of
both. There’s no telling, but you must consider if you go back
with several new abilities, you won’t be able to use them regularly;
otherwise, they’ll most likely become suspicious, put you in an
institution and dissect you to find out why you’re the way you
are. With levitation and the stigmatas, you can hide under the
protection of religious superstition. The corporations or
military wouldn’t dare try anything. People would be rioting in
the streets because they would be tampering with one of their favorite
and most popular religious icons. Furthermore, President
Scudder’s ratings at the polls are through the roof because you’re one
of his most popular Temple Guards. You must continue to maintain
that relationship, without drugs, for his continued protection. I
emphasize ‘without drugs’ because we have no idea what effect the drugs
you were taking as a Temple Guard might do to you once you’ve changed.”
“I hardly take
anything at all anymore. Dr. Scudder ordered me off all drugs,
Sir. I’ll just tell him I was instructed not to take anymore
drugs.”
“Good, it’s best
to avoid them. We suspect your brain hemorrhage might have been
caused by a delayed reaction from the steroids.”
“Are you in
contact with the ones you call the Ancients, Mr. Jesse?”
“Yes, Son.
A number of us are. You have the ability, you just don’t realize
it yet. The Kryscellians sing with the Voices of the Ancients on
a regular basis. When you sing, they hear you. The
vibrations and sounds of your voice and soul are carried throughout the
universe. You have no idea how many critters with peaceful,
intelligent, benevolent souls out there you have touched with your
music. Later you will meet young Johauk Kodaly who will explain
it all to you.”
“Are the voices
sometimes mistaken for the voice of a god or gods?”
“Sometimes— but
let’s not get into theology here. What you’re trying to ask is
what the Ancients want of you, right?”
“Yes, Sir, but I
don’t really need your answer, Mr. Jesse. I know in my heart what
they want.”
“Yes, so do I,
Son. I just had to hear it from you. So do they, but I must
ask,— are you sure it’s what you want?”
“Without a
doubt, Sir. I feel it’s part of my destiny. I feel like you
and all these wonderful people are part of my destiny.”
“I agree.
It is your destiny, but since I was responsible for this new
development, it would be remiss of me not to offer you a choice.
For your protection your own DNA is capable of rejecting this
change on its own— only, you don’t know how to activate it yet, but we
ain’t sure you’ll be able to reverse its effect later. Little is
known about Evanescent DNA; however, if it’s what you choose for
yourself we’ll let the change take place.”
“It’s what I
want, Sir. I’m willing to take the chance.” confirmed Jones.
“That being said
and understood between us, let me be the first to welcome you to our
family.” Jesse took Brett’s hand and gently shook it.
“To be honest, I
hoped one day I might be invited to join your wonderful family?”
“Certainly.
Without a doubt, you already are part of our family. You will
learn many new and amazing things while you are with us. When you
return they must remain locked away in you heart, but you won’t be
alone. You will have your Commander to lean on and we will be in
constant contact with you. We will come for you, Commander
Hawkins and several others when the time is right.”
“Will it be the
rapture, Sir?”
“Yes, in
religious terms, for those who are unable to share the knowledge you
will be given, it will be the rapture. Between us and what you
will learn, it will be the salvation of many and their final exodus
before the Earth is destroyed by a combination of human stupidity,
religious fanaticism, ultra-conservative fundamentalism, intolerance,
misplaced faith, greed, treachery, mendacity and aliens that will make
themselves known shortly. Not all people will be chosen, Officer
Jones. You must make certain you are able to leave those behind
who you know in your heart will not be saved. If you are not able
to separate yourself and choose to walk away of your own free will, you
will perish with them.”
Brett Jones
seemed stunned but satisfied for the moment. It was some tough
words, but there was no doubt whom Jesse was talking about. It
was a matter which didn’t need to be confronted at that moment.
One hurdle at a time. Brett Jones made himself comfortable and
took a deep breath. He wondered what he would become.
* * * * *
* *
After the third
day, Cable allowed Brett to be up and around. Officer Jones kept
his word, and for the most part, remained quiet, relaxed and slept a
lot. His fourth day, he had visitors all day. He was amazed
and thrilled by the wonderful and unusual characters he was
meeting. By the end of the day Cable decided there was just too
much traffic in sickbay and the decision was made to move Brett to the
clinic in Parsons. Before he left he asked Cable if he needed to
dress.
“Only if you
want to. You’ll be accepted how ever you’re most
comfortable. Everyone who comes aboard the Bandersnatch or any of
the other smaller scout-ships we have on board know the medical staff
will be nude. Me and my brothers don’t feel comfortable in
clothes, but sometimes we have to attend functions outside the ship or
in one of the communities and we wear our Western clothes.
They’re not so bad. They’re very comfortable. We don’t mind
spending a day in cowboy clothes. Besides, we’ve decided we look
quite handsome in them.”
Brett decided to
go Parsons in the raw. No one said a thing. Arnie Lewis and
Dr. Randy Stevens welcomed him with open arms. The were glad to
have him as they hadn’t had a patient stay in their small country
hospital since Indigo. Arnie patiently explained where he was,
about their small town of Parsons and the growing number of other
communities. That afternoon, Brett found out about Cable, David
and Jonathan and several others of the android staff. As Jesse
told him he would be, Brett Jones was amazed.
The Kryscellians
and Blue helped Brett through his transition. They were able to
understand his fears and help him make adjustments. Indigo and
Blue helped most of all because of their own problems with
adjustments. Indigo had come a long way and was more comfortable
and confident in his position. He probably helped Brett the
most. The fact that Indigo Blue dressed and spoke the cowboy
lingo helped considerably to put Brett at ease.
He had, what
seemed like, a never ending stream of visitors, well wishers and folks
who seemed genuinely concerned about him and offered their help.
The strangest was a small fairy-like creature who was introduced to him
as Master Waco’s slave. Her name was Keekepata and told him a
wonderful story of stowing away on young Captain Waco’s spaceship to
come live with him and his family. Keeke and her entourage of
several Shushonni warriors and ladies visited him regularly.
Brett’s friend
and commanding officer was by his side at all times. He revealed
to Brett he was introduced to this strange new world of folks during
his last vacation. Brick and Tim picked up Del and brought him to
spend his vacation with them. He got to know and love
everyone. He told Jones about a brief trip to Venus and Mars to
see the wonders of those worlds. He even introduced him to their
resident Venusian Ambassador Darryl. Hawkins didn’t think he was
being treasonous to his Holy Prophet but knew one day he might have to
make a decision as to his loyalty. He made it clear to Brett he
would chose the folks who were taking care of him. Brett had
mixed emotions because of his loyalty and devotion for Jerry Scudder,
but he was finding himself being unwittingly seduced into a
relationship with these folks unlike anything he’d ever
experienced. They were becoming family and just seemed to accept
him as one of them. Nothing was held back from him or Del Hawkins
because of their close ties with the Scudder regime. It was as if
they trusted the men to do the right thing.
Two of his most
treasured visitors became Adam and Eve Steele and their families.
As his changes took place, the children took him by the hand and taught
him how to use his changes. He learned he could make his body
completely breakdown into its smallest molecular components and move
about undetected by anyone unless they knew what to look for. He
appeared as dust particles floating in the air. They taught him
to change into anything he wanted. He could become a dog like
Moe, Patty or Utah and run and play with them. He stood in front
of a mirror and learned to change his facial features to become a
stunningly handsome man. Del Hawkins was impressed, but stressed
he would have to return to the Holy City as the old ‘Dumbo’ Jones.
The strangest
thing happened to him. He wasn’t ashamed or concerned about the
way he looked any more. His body was perfection itself, and he
was more than adequately hung. He decided his Dumbo Jones
appearance was a perfect cover for the other changes that had taken
place. He had plenty of time to become someone else. It
just might even make it easier for him to walk away from Scudder if he
had to.
* * * * * * *
It was the first
week of summer and the boy’s collective sixteenth birthday rolled
around. By that time there were so many different, strange but
wonderful people and critters it didn’t seem safe to have the
festivities out in the open at Charlie’s ranch anymore where they might
be observed. Besides, as Darryl observed, it made it easier for
him and the AIs to film everything. It had been planned for
sometime and it just so happened Officer Jones was rescued the week
before. Since the Coyote kids birthdays were in the summer
Lazarus and Charlie decided they would make it one big birthday party
for them all. The members of the Grange planned a great blowout
at Parsons on the Bandersnatch and the people of Parsons planned for it
for weeks. It marked a great passage for several of the boys and
a time when Charlie had to start thinking about Waco growing up.
Charlie was
faced with some tough decisions. Waco was the best son he could
possibly have had. It seemed like no matter how many
responsibilities he gave the kid, Waco took them on and never
complained he was overburdened. He looked at anything Charlie or
Lazarus wanted of him as a challenge and an opportunity. He never
neglected any area of his life and kept his grades in the top two or
three students in high school at all times. He did have a
tendency to expect the same from others and sometimes his brothers had
difficulty keeping up with him.
The teachers in
the high school were amazed by the Goodnight boys as they came to be
known. They were always prepared for class, always did their
homework, did it correctly, and respectfully participated in
class. They also ran the tenor of the classroom. If one of
the other students got out of hand and weren’t paying attention, they
would all turn and stare at the offending individual. It would
embarrass the shit out of the misbehaving student and they would sink
low in their seats. They made it clear they were there to learn,
and they wouldn’t put up with anyone not respecting their right to do
so. The teachers loved them, and they were all top notch athletes
as well.
Charlie
anguished over what to do about Waco and his suitor, Captain
Vinceeth. Charlie had come to love Treygor like he was another
son. He had no problem with Waco and Trey being together before
Waco was eighteen, but Charlie was a man of conviction and lived by the
laws of the land even if he didn’t agree with them. Lazarus
suggested a solution by offering to buy Waco as his indentured slave
for five years, but Charlie just couldn’t bring himself around to the
idea. Besides, he was growing more and more dependent on Waco to
help him run all the things that were going on around the ranch.
Charlie couldn’t keep track of everything, but Waco and his brothers
were always right there to remind him, take up the slack and lend a
hand. A solution to his problem came from an unexpected
sources. He was having a conversation with Hank Morgan about JR
discovering Hank was his dad. They were two fathers considering
the future of their boys. Hank shared with Charlie what JR asked
of him on their trip across the galaxy. Charlie roared with
laughter.
“I wondered when
he was gonna’ git around to it. Waco and I made a bet. Of
course, Waco won. I told him it would be in a year or so, but he
insisted JR would test the water with you sooner. Damned if he
didn’t.” Charlie looked at Hank sympathetically.
“Did you tell
him it was all right with you for him to ask me, boss?” Hank
asked respectfully.
“Yeah, he asked
me about it. I told him to follow his heart, but for him to
respect you as his dad and obey your wishes.”
“That’s exactly
what he told me, but I told him to wait. If he argued with me I
would’ve been resolved not to, but he didn’t. He just accepted my
decision and told me he loved me anyway. Now I don’t know what
the fuck to do. He’s got me dead to rights. I ain’t got me
no good argument not to. It weren’t like he was asking for a
steady thing. Just a night on a fishing trip or a git-away trip
to Mars,— just the two of us. How often does that happen?
Hell, you and Master Waco don’t git away together no more often than we
do.”
“Lord, don’t I
know it. I have to make an appointment months in advance just to
have a sit down chat with him.” Charlie complained. The men
shared a laugh.
“What do you
plan to do about Master Waco and his warrior Captain?”
“Don’t rightly
know, Hank. I done made up my mind, I ain’t a’ gonna’ sell ma’
boy to Lazarus for no amount of money. It was kind of him to
offer, but I don’t need the money. Waco’s all for it, but it just
sticks in my craw. I guess he’ll just have to wait until he’s
eighteen and can make those decisions for himself.”
“Ain’t the legal
age in Texas sixteen, boss?”
“Yeah, I think
you’re right. It was changed a number of years ago so’s Saint
Bush could draft younger boys for his wars. Waco becomes draft
age this year, but he don’t have to register as long as he’s in
school. We don’t have to worry none about our slaves.
They’re considered personal property and ain’t subject to the selective
service. Actually, that only gives Waco another two years.
He’ll be a junior this coming year and next year he’ll be a
senior. The following summer he turns eighteen and is eligible
for the draft unless he immediately enrolls in college. As long
as he continues his schooling uninterrupted, he won’t be subject to the
draft. Then he’s got another four to six years before having to
go off and fight in one of the neo-cons never ending wars.”
“If Waco’s legal
age what’s to keep him and his Captain from sharing something with each
other? What if he weren’t in the state or on the planet?
Would that make a difference to you? Wouldn’t maritime laws apply
to spaceships as well as navy vessels?”
“Don’t see why
not. Lazarus has the authority to marry folks. He’s married
any number of same sex couples and authorized the marriage of Lyle and
Strom. I see what you’re getting at, Hank, and it makes a lot of
sense to me. I gotta’ talk with Admiral Long about it.
After all, my boy is the Captain of his own ship. That might be
something for you to consider, too. Waco and Lucas done got
chore’ boy sit’n next to ‘em and taking the helm on all them flights to
Venus and Mars. He’s made a couple of trips with Bert and Phil
Stamper as their first mate. H’it ain’t gonna’ be long afore JR
is Captain of his own ship. What are you gonna’ say then?”
Charlie grinned at Hank.
“Guess I’ll have
to follow my Captain’s orders. Hell, I don’t wanna’ have ta’ walk
the plank in deep space.” laughed Hank. Charlie laughed with him.
“You’d make JR a
fine first mate, Hank. You always was good to take care of me
when I needed it. I’m almost a little envious of you and JR.”
“Have you given
much thought to you and Waco sharing anything, boss?”
“We talked about
it, but hell, we’d have to schedule it a year in advance.” Charlie
laughed again. “Who knows? It’s like you said, it ain’t
gonna’ be something we plan as a regular thing. If it happens at
all, it will be because we both happen to have a moment to share, which
ain’t too damn likely the way things are going. Things is git’n
crazy. What with having to sell directly to the city folks and
people driving all the way out here to get meat I’ve been thinking on
buying several more slaves. We need the help. That’s gonna’
increase you and Curley’s work load. I know Lazarus has been
depending more on you and Curley. Maybe you and Curley should
talk and we’ll think about promoting another couple of good slaves to
lead cowboys. You don’t even wanna’ know what Lazarus is talking
about doing with the old Bloom place.”
“Them boys can’t
keep nothing from Ida Mae, boss, and she tells me ever’ thing.
You know how jazzed up they git over any new project Master Lazarus
wants to do; especially, if it means saving or helping kids.”
Hank chuckled. “I think it’s an ambitious project, but knowing
Master Long he’ll fund it well and see it’s all run in a first class
manner.” Hank allowed.
“I know he
will. Lazarus has a great sense of organization and knows how to
get things done. He knows how to relegate authority and relies
heavily on the talents and his trust in others. He just seems to
know when someone is right for a job. I guess living several
thousand years will do that for a man.” Charlie smiled. “Do
you think we’ll ever be that wise, Hank?” Charlie asked his slave.
“If I see my boy
to adulthood, and he becomes a good man, I’ll feel like I done my job,
boss.”
“I share your
ambition, Hank, but I don’t think either one of us got a worry in that
department. JR is gonna’ be ever’ bit as good, strong, and
talented a leader as Waco. I’m proud to have folks think on me as
JR’s dad.”
“Me and Ida Mae
deeply appreciate what you and Mistress Anne done for us and JR, boss.”
“It was worth
it, but the heroine was Anne. She had to live with folks thinking
I cheated on her, but it never bothered her for a minute. She
told me it didn’t matter what others thought, we knew the truth and
that’s all that mattered. I was surprised to find out years later
most of the Grange members knew the truth. They figured it out
for themselves. Thank God them religious nuts never did.”
* * * * * * *
The big birthday
celebration was to be held that Saturday and Sunday. It was to be
a two day event. Saturday the town of Parsons invited everyone to
a county fair and rodeo, and that Sunday they were invited back for a
football game and the main part of the birthday party. Friday
evening everyone gathered in the auditorium on the Bandersnatch for the
weekly video from the Banshee. Of course Arnie and Randy Stevens
were invited and brought Officer Jones and Commander Hawkins along with
them. They managed to get Brett some cowboy clothes, a nice hat,
and a good looking pair of boots. He looked sharp.
There’s just something about Western clothes that can make even the
homeliest man appear handsome. Del already had Western clothes
stored away on the Buttercup.
There was
excitement in the air. The coyote kids were sitting in the front
row between their older cowboy brothers. The had grown so quickly
they were about the size of regular ten year olds, but they would be
only five years old in a couple of weeks. Living on the ranches
and having access to enhanced foods and mental stimulus from all the
fascinating people and critters around them caused an unprecedented
growth in them. How many kids five years of age could boast
having been to Venus and Mars no less than half a dozen times and could
claim to have Mammoths, Mastodons, Unicorns, Centaurs, and warrior
fairies for personal friends? To say nothing of being able to
speak with all the critters they loved. They had their heads
together giggling about something only they knew about. Nobody
else knew what burr they had under their collective saddles, but they
couldn’t be made to tell. Jack Hall, Buck, Warren Steele and
Horse had been riding herd on them all afternoon and were almost worn
out. They were a handful and the delight of everyone. The
critters wanted to be wherever the young cowboys were.
Brett Jones had
never experienced anything like this group of folks. He was
introduced earlier to two of Waco’s cousins Gavin and Jerry.
Gavin was a fine looking young cowboy the same age as Waco and his
brothers. His little brother Jerry was a couple of years
younger. Then they introduced him to their parents Captain Trong
and his human mate Commander Kyle Fielding. Together they had two
human sons, two lummox sons, one human daughter and the baby of the
family was a lummox female. Del Hawkins also introduced two more
Goodnight-Long cousins Bronc and Ts’gan and their dad Bron.
It became a bit confusing to Jones when his commander tried to explain
Bron was the son of Master Waco’s lummox slave Ox, and Bronc and Ts’gan
were his grandsons. He didn’t even try to explain Lyle Chambers,
Strom, Kuluke and T’kan.
The Shushonni
flew in and landed on the shoulders or laps of cowboys and a couple
landed on Ox and Strom. There was much laugher, hugs and kisses
like they hadn’t seen each other in days. Brett Jones and his
commander were joined by the Steele family. Sonny, Vivian, Adam
and Eve. He was glad to see them. The kids insisted on
conjoining with him and he had a head sticking out of each of his
muscular shoulders. He laughed to himself what he must look
like. The kids got the joke and laughed, too, but they didn’t
move an inch. They liked the comfort of being with their Uncle
Brett. Beside, they told him their cowboy dad always insisted two
or more heads were better than one. A couple of the Shushonni
flew over to him to inquire about his progress. They
couldn't help giggle at his three heads. Keeke and one of her
escorts ask if they might sit with him. He was flattered and told
them he’d be honored. Keeke began to tell him what he was about
to see. The room went dark and the holo-video began.
Officer Jones
was still becoming used to seeing new high-tech electronic marvels, but
he was amazed at the stunning definition of the holo-vids. It was
like the person was standing there before them. The man— Jones
didn’t know if he was human or not— standing there was one of the most
handsome humanoid creatures Jones had ever seen. His body was
perfectly developed even more than his commander and himself and he
appeared in a tight uniform that left nothing to the imagination.
It was obvious the man was hung like a small pony. Everyone
applauded for him, and he grinned real big. They all knew who he
was.
“That’s Captain
Treygor Vinceeth. He’s my Master’s suitor and my Lord Protector.”
whispered Keekepata. “He’s commander of the Visallian fleet and
Captain of the Banshee.” she added. Captain Vinceeth began
to speak.
“This week has
been a busy one for us.” As he spoke the video faded and his
picture was replaced by pictures of the men of the Banshee going about
their everyday routines. They would stop and wave to the camera
or give some secret signal to someone in the crowd. There was
much laughter, jeers, hoots and joking when a particularly handsome
warrior would give his signal. All the noise was coming from the
cowboys on the front rows. It was obvious several had close
relationships with some of the crew. Jones couldn’t get over how
perfect every man on the ship was. They made his corps of officer
brothers look like wimps.
“What do you
think of those warriors, Son?” his commander whispered.
“Unbelievable.
They’re awe inspiring.” he responded.
“Where do you
think I got the idea to get bigger?” said Hawkins.
“They’re
amazing!” exclaimed Jones.
The video ran
about an hour. It was entertaining, educational and funny.
There was a lot of inside jokes the cowboys fell out laughing over that
were completely missed by Jones and his commander. Finally, the
captain came back on the screen and began to tell of having taken some
new specie to Mars that the reptiles were decimating, and while there,
they discovered another scientific marvel the androids in charge had
brought out and dusted off. Next appeared scenes from one of the
many balconies in the huge cave and in the distance you could see some
huge creatures flying in the air. As they came nearer the cowboys
on the front row gasped. They could make out what they were
before anyone else could. It got very quiet in the auditorium.
“My God in
heaven! Voices of the Ancients forgive me!” exclaimed Waco.
“Flying horses!” The others were talking among themselves.
“They’re
friggin’ beautiful!” exclaimed Lucas.
“This is like
something out of a dream.” said Little Bear. “I can’t
believe it! Wait ‘til I tell my granddad about this. He’ll
mess his pants.”
“I just
did!” laughed Jack Hall.
Everyone watched
as the beautiful horses flew up to the balcony to take food from the
nude warriors and fly away to land in the meadows and eat. There
were other nude warriors in the meadow passing out food for them and
they didn’t seem a bit shy. They would walk up to a warrior,
nudge him and he would stop what he was doing to pet the beautiful
animals. Several allowed warriors to mount them and flew them up
and around the area in front of the balconies to show them off.
Every cowboy got an erection. The thought of riding a horse naked
and flying through the air was just too sensual. Captain Vinceeth
was narrating what they were seeing and told all about the beautiful
creatures.
“They’re from
the planet Lira in the Pegasus constellation. They have no
natural
predators on their world and once numbered in the millions in large
familial herds. They are highly intelligent and have a well
developed society. For the past five hundred of their years they
have been kidnaped, killed and used for food by the Reptilian
race. They are down to less than several hundred herds with less
than a hundred in each herd. When we offered a safe refuge for
them, many chose to come with us rather than have their race become
extinct. I told them we would take them to a hidden world where
they could thrive and be safe to rebuild their society.”
The video came
to an end but the Captain never explained about the wonderful piece of
technology they discovered; however, just before he signed off and gave
his not-so-secret signal to his young cowboy lover, he mentioned it by
speaking directly to the coyote kids.
“I hope you men
kept our secret.” They fell out laughing. The captain
winked and said his goodbyes. That was the end of the
video. Everyone applauded. Jones was stunned by what he
saw. Hawkins had to close his mouth for him. Waco grabbed
Bo and Lucas grabbed Jubal. Little Bear grabbed Ranger
Junior and Travis grabbed his little brother Cable.
“Okay, cowboys,
the jig is up! Fess up! What do you know we don’t?
What has the Captain set up with you guys? Who else knows about
this?” Waco demanded.
Jubal was their
spokes-cowperson for the coyotes. “Ms. Myra and Kyron know about
it. Of course our dads, the Admiral and Mr. Goodnight, know about
it. Other than them, nobody but us knows. It’s a birthday
present for all of us, but mainly for our older brothers.” Jubal stated.
“When do we get
to know about it?” Lucas demanded.
“Right now, but
ya’ll gotta’ come with us.” said Bo. The cowboys put their
younger brothers down. The coyotes took them by the hand and
dragged them laughing and giggling to the large transport bay.
Everyone followed into the huge room that was used only for
transporting very large animals or equipment. It was an enormous
area, one of the largest on the ship.
“Is ever’ body
here?” shouted Ranger Junior as sort of a rhetorical question. He
could see almost everyone followed them. “Okay, I guess we’re
ready. Happy Birthday, guys! Mr. Kyron, if you would be so
kind as to activate the transport.”
“Certainly,
young Sir. Happy to, and by the way, Happy Birthday to all you
four fine young cowboys.” Kyron answered Ranger Junior. The boys
thanked him.
Kyron activated
the huge transporter and the first to walk through was Captain Trey
Vinceeth leading a winged-pony. He and the pony were followed
closely by the spacer-dogs Larry and Curley who were running around
greeting their brother and sisters and everyone they could at
once. Waco went to his Captain and a cheer went up as they
hugged and kissed before everyone. Trey was followed by Commander
Maddragon who was also leading a beautiful winged-horse. Lucas
went to him and did the same as his brother. Then a flood of
warriors, several more leading handsome winged-ponies passed through
until those allowed shore leave were accounted for. When they
were all aboard the Bandersnatch everyone could see they brought six of
the beautiful creatures with them; three stallions and three
mares. They were magnificent creatures. While the cowboys
could see in the video among the total number of winged horses many
were as varied in color as the horses on Earth, but the six the
warriors chose to bring for a visit were pure white. They were
stunningly beautiful. They were just a little larger than an
average Earth horse but not as big as Waco’s Ranger and his family.
“How is this
visit possible?” Waco gasped for breath.
“The androids
told us about a huge transporter that had the potential to move people
and materials over large distances. We found it, tracked it
down, they dusted it off and made sure it was functional.
It can easily move us from Mars or even Venus right to Earth. It
requires enormous amounts of energy but the Ancients left ample
supplies behind. We don’t have to fly from world to world within
a solar system. We can simply transport. We wanted it to be
a surprise for your birthdays.”
“What a great
surprise.” said Waco and a cheer went up from everyone. “Come
let’s take our honored guest through another gate to Parsons so
everyone can enjoy their beauty tomorrow at the rodeo. Strom,
Lyle can we board them at your farm for their visit?”
Strom agreed and
after everyone had a chance to greet the ponies they were led through
another gate to their farm. They were shown to the huge,
comfortable barn on Strom and Lyle’s farm where they could stay for the
night. The cowboys already had their ponies stabled with Strom
and Lyle, and Ranger and his family were there, too. The cowboys
pitched in, fed and watered them. They also asked if they could
groom them for the evening. They were not used to such pampering
but allowed the cowboys to do their thing in the spirit of learning new
customs. It didn’t take them long to become accustom such
luxury. The ponies relaxed and were well pleased with the
attention and welcome they got. A couple of warriors were
assigned to stand watch over them all night and Larry and Curley were
ordered to assist them. They wanted to go with their brother,
sister and parents to visit with them, but they were now spacer-dogs
and just like their warrior brothers had their responsibilities.
There would be plenty of time to visit later.
* * * * * * *
After dinner
that evening Charlie asked if he could speak to Trey and Waco in the
living room. He invited Lazarus to join them. He poured
four brandies and handed one to Waco.
“Hank Morgan
brought it to my attention, according to Texas law the age of consent
for males, or as they legally refer to it the age of majority, is now
sixteen years of age. Before he died, the Bush administration had
it lowered from eighteen to sixteen so he could draft younger men for
his failing wars; however, it still remains eighteen for females.
I called Judge Potter to confirm it. So, I invited you to join
us, Son, in a small alcoholic beverage this evening to celebrate you
crossing that threshold. This birthday officially brings you into
adulthood, Son, and as far as I’m concerned gives you the right to
conduct yourself and make certain decisions for yourself; that is, with
the understanding as long as you are living under my protection as your
father, in my home, you will respect my rules and requirements. I realize that
probably sounds more ominous and dictatorial than I mean for it to,
because I have no doubt you will conduct yourself in an acceptable
manner as you always have and take those things into
consideration. It’s only because of the exemplary way you’ve
handled yourself, your responsibilities, and devotion to me I have come
to the conclusion you should be rewarded by giving you this
trust.
I asked our
ramrod to be present for a couple of reasons. First to thank him
for his generous offer to change your legal status to accommodate you
and Captain Vinceeth, but furthermore to have him as a witness to my
announcement to you. It may have been easier to have indentured
you, my Son, but my heart wouldn’t allow me to do it. I love you
far too much, Waco.” Charlie paused for a moment. Lazarus
had a wry smile on his face like he knew without saying Charlie would
never go for his offer to buy Waco. Charlie raised his glass and
the men followed suit.
“To my beloved
son on his sixteenth birthday. New doors have been opened for
you, and I know you will handle yourself with the same manner of
restraint and devotion you always have. Happy birthday,
Son.” Charlie’s voice quivered just a bit. The men clinked
glasses.
“To Master Waco
Goodnight!” Lazarus exclaimed.
“To my beloved
cowboy!” Trey said quietly.
The four men
threw back their drinks. Waco sputtered a bit. He’d never
tasted a full drink of brandy before, and it brought to mind Little
Bear’s metaphorical word ‘firewater.’ Trey was the first to hug
and kiss him, followed by Lazarus and finally Charlie. He held
Waco in his arms and shed a few tears.
“Does this mean—
?” Waco said quietly, but didn’t finish his sentence.
“Yes, it does,
Son. You and Trey are free to consummate your troth to each
other, but not under my roof or on Texas soil. That’s another
reason I invited Admiral Long to be with us. Let it be understood
between us four men, that on the Bandersnatch, the Buttercup, the
Banshee, or any planet under Admiral Long’s jurisdiction you and
Trey may do as you damn well please.” Waco went to Trey’s
arms. Charlie refilled their four glasses and held his up
again.
“This is to
welcome you into the Goodnight family, Treygor Vinceeth. May you
and my son find much happiness together, and no matter in what manner
you choose to live your lives, may you give me and your family many
grandchildren.” The men drank again.
“I’m happy and
honored, Mr. Goodnight.” Trey said quietly. “I will do my
best to make your son— my beloved cowboy— as happy and contented as I
can. We have already spoken of children, and if we have our way,
both families will be greatly blessed, but don’t expect all your
grandchildren to be human.” Trey laughed. Lazarus and
Charlie joined him.
“That’s for you
to decide. I will be happy with either.” Charlie assured
him.
“I take it you
will be spending the night on the Buttercup?” Lazarus smiled
knowingly.
“With your
permission, Admiral.” Waco spoke.
“Of course you
have my permission and the blessings of all your brothers, all those
who
know and love you, and every critter on four worlds— to include the
good Captain’s world.”
“Thank you,
Admiral. We hope to keep this quiet until we can tell our giant
brother the good news.”
“Do you think
he’ll feel left out?” Charlie asked with concern.
“Who says we
plan to leave him out?” smiled Treygor. Waco nodded his head in
approval. Charlie rolled his eyes and shook his head. They
shared another laugh.
* * * * * * *
The news spread
like wildfire. They barely found Ox on the Buttercup at Jack Hall
and Buck’s ranch. He was with them, Warren Steele and
Horse. He already knew about it. Waco allowed him to
eavesdrop on his mind from time to time and would send him signals to
listen when he thought it was something important he might be
interested in. Ox overheard the whole conversation between the
men. He was thrilled for his young Master and the Captain and
looked forward to his brother’s coupling. He already insisted he
wouldn’t participate, but he wanted to share the experience with
them. They agreed. They knew the first time for the lummox
and the Visallian warrior with the cowboy they both loved beyond
measure would be an experience that would bond the three of them
together for an eternity.
Soon the gates
between places were almost overheating with traffic. The critters
spread the word the Captain and Waco would be spending their first
night together as a couple. It was just understood that they
would be accompanied by their protector, their beloved lummox, Ox or
Garron as some knew him. Everyone wanted to drop by and wish them
well. Much joking and good humor was offered, but no one stepped
over the line of good taste.
Waco’s cowboy
brothers touched him with their well wishes. Even the coyote kids
had a hug and kiss for him. They didn’t fully understand the
total picture of what was about to take place, but they understood
enough to know it would bring great pleasure and happiness to their big
brother and a warrior they had come to love and admire. That’s
all they needed to know.
Brett Jones
observed all of this. He was amazed everyone seemed to know what
was about to take place, even the youngest cowboys. He was
carefully told what was about to happen, but he was stunned by the
acceptance of it all. No one even suggested two or even three
males, each of a different specie, who were about to spend an evening
making love was unusual. Everyone acted like it was the most
natural thing these three could be doing, and so it was. Jones thought of
himself as a heterosexual, but after observing the acceptance and
palpable joy that was shared by all, including the critters, was
overwhelming to him. He had to admit to himself he would have to
rethink his position if he were presented with a similar situation as
Captain Waco Goodnight. The staggering hyer-masculine beauty of
the Visallian warrior and the unmitigated lusty sexual draw of the huge
lummox was enough to keep his penis engorged for the evening. For
the first time, he was thankful for the Western clothes they provided
him, but he longed to rip them off and share the pride of his erection
with them. He could only hope for some relief with someone.
Otherwise, he was sure he would have to commit the sin of
onanism. Better he should discuss it with his commander or shoot
his seed into the belly of a whore than to spill it upon the
ground. He wondered why life couldn’t be more simple for
him. Was the simplicity of these people and their acceptance of
life a better way? Was his beliefs and customs more complicated
than they needed to be? Jones had never been
around people and critters who might overhear broadcasted
thoughts. He hadn’t yet learned to keep them private unto
himself. He never considered his thoughts might be overheard,
until he heard some gentle laughter in the back of his mind.
<< You are
welcome to share the evening with my mate and me, Officer Jones.
>> Brett recognized the deep voice of the other giant lummox
standing before him smiling at him. << Shall I help you off with
your burdensome clothing? >> Horse moved slowly to
him and towered over Brett. << The only reaction will be several
others throwing off their clothes. >> Horse chuckled.
Without waiting for an answer, Horse took Brett’s cowboy hat, set it
upon a big rock and started unbuttoning his Western shirt. Every
eye was on Horse and Jones. It was very sensual for Brett Jones
and he couldn’t get his clothes off fast enough. He became so
aroused he began to float in the air. Horse reached up and
grabbed him by the ankle. Everyone was applauding for the fine
looking officer as Horse gently lead him to his mate. Warren saw them
coming and decided to welcome Jones as his grandchildren taught
him. He rose from the ground and simply walked to Brett with his
arms extended. They met and embraced in mid-air. Horse let
go and Warren walked Jones back down to the ground.
“Don’t worry,
Son, me and my mate will take good care of you this evening. Not
to be afraid. You won’t be asked to do anything to make you
uncomfortable. After all, I’m almost three months pregnant.
You may go inside me and visit our new son if you like.”
“Thank you, I’d
like that, Mr. Steele, but maybe later.” Brett was thrilled they
thought enough of him to offer to share their evening.
* * * * * * *
The evening drew
to a close and Waco led his two mates off to their apartment in the new
hotel that was almost completed in the other valley on the
Buttercup. They cleaned up and began to relax with another
drink. Ox retired to his adjoining room for the evening. He
didn’t have to be present to enjoy his Master’s coupling with his
handsome warrior suitor. Waco and Trey walked out onto the
balcony of the apartment and overlooked the beautiful valley which was
bathed in artificial moonlight. They embraced and shared a deep
but gentle kiss. All of a sudden there was a rushing sound coming
from the distance. Waco’s brothers got the bright idea it would
be great fun to release the six winged horses into the pastures to
graze for the evening. He and Trey looked up to see them in full
flight doing wonderful things in the air and finally flying up and
around the balcony.
<<
Come, Master Waco. We have been sent by your
brothers. You and your betrothed warrior Captain, our savior,
come out from that place and meet us on the ground. We would be
honored to take you through the sky to celebrate your mating.
This is such a wonderful place. >> Waco laughed and Trey
looked at him with a bemused look on his face.
“What?” Trey
asked.
“They want to
take us for a ride to celebrate our joining.”
“Tell them, we
would be the ones honored. Should we dress?”
“Of course
not. Don’t be silly. It’s warm out.” reassured Waco.
He took Trey’s hand and they walked out of the building to meet the six
beautiful creatures on the newly planted lawn in front. A few
were grazing the lush grass. One of the largest stallions came
forward and knelt in front of Trey.
<< Since
he can not hear me, tell him my name is Xenophene,* my gracious host.
>> he spoke to Waco.
“He would have
you mount him, Captain. He said to tell you his name is
Xenophene. He can hear your thoughts, so if you become unsure he
will adjust his flight to accommodate you.”
“Thank you,
Xenophene.” Trey spoke aloud as he mounted the stallion.
Another stallion
of equal size came forward and bowed low to Waco.
<< I am
Belerophon.* Please— sit yourself upon my back, my host.
Make yourself comfortable. I would be pleased to take you through
the air. >>
<< Thank
you, gracious steed, the pleasure is mine. >> Waco answered.
<< Are you
with me, my beloved lummy? >> Waco sent privately.
<< I am
with you, my love. Your eyes are my eyes. Your heart is my
heart. Your happiness is mine, Master. Enjoy your flight.
>> Ox wished his young Master well.
The six took off
with a flurry of feathered wings. They were remarkable
animals. Their wing spans were almost twenty feet. Even
with passengers the big stallions seemed to fly effortlessly. It
was like they were used to carrying people. Waco asked Belerophon
about it.
<< We used
to live in a symbiotic culture with another form of humanoid creatures
similar to the Venusians, although they were much more fragile than us,
the snakes or the greys. Unfortunately, they were a favorite food
source of the Reptilians and the Greys. They fought them as best
they could, but they eventually perished. There were so many more
of us we thought we would never be threatened; however, when they were
gone, they began to capture, kidnap and feed on us. >>
<< I’m so
sorry, Belerophon. My species has had its guilt when it comes to
the wastefulness of our fellow animals. We are trying to learn
better ways, but I can assure you, you and your kind will be well
protected and looked after as biological treasures. >>
<< We
sense that from the way we’ve been treated. Your ground-bound
equines have nothing but praise for you. Ranger is your biggest
fan and his family swears by you and your brothers. That’s good
enough for us. We’ve had some reservations about our decision,
but after we arrived on Mars and spoke with the others there, we feel
more at ease. This trip to Earth has been a pleasure for us so
far. We’re looking forward to performing for your people
tomorrow. >>
<< You
will cause quite a stir, I assure you. >>
They flew up and
over the tall redwood trees into the warm night. Waco found the
sensation as sensual as he thought it might be. He was roaring
hard and wondered if his beloved warrior was as aroused.
<< I
assure you he is. >> came a voice in Waco’s head from Xenophene.
As they flew,
Waco could see the other valley coming into sight. He heard Trey
laughing. They could see small lights dotted around the
valley. All their families and friends were waiting for them in
the valley lying on beautiful, handmade quilts. There were many
small paper sacks with candles in them lighting the valley floor.
Everyone waved as the winged ponies flew lower and began to put on a
performance for the crowd. They flew in circles, figure eights
and did all sorts of beautiful maneuvers in the air. The crowd
would whistle and applaud. Finally, Waco heard
Johauk and his family start a song and everyone joined in. It was
an old camping song that had been the cause of many burnt marshmallows
and dripping, lip smacking Smores. It was simplicity in itself,
but everyone knew the melody and some even knew the harmony.
Tell me why the
stars do shine,
Tell me why the
ivy twines,
Tell me why the
skies are blue,
And I will tell
you just why I love you.
Waco was
astounded. It was like the winged-ponies practiced some ballet to
this song, and they were literally dancing in air to the music.
It was one of the most moving feelings Waco ever experienced. By
the time they got to the second verse, everyone had joined in and the
valley was awash with song.
Because God made
the stars to shine,
Because God made
the ivy twine,
Because God made
the sky so blue,
Because God made
you, that's why I love you.
It suddenly
dawned on Waco and Trey, this was a love song to them. What
greater expression of love could people have than to gather and sing to
the two young lovers.
I do believe
that God above
Created you for
me to love;
He picked you
out from all the rest
Because he knew
I'd love you best.
It became too
much for Brett Jones, but he was in no mood to anchor himself to the
ground. He started to rise into the air, but this time he wasn’t
alone. He found himself surrounded by Adam and Eve and Warren
Steele. Also joining them was the coyotes, Lucas, Little Bear and
Chief Ten Penny. Utah began to rise and took Moe, and Patty with
him. There was a wonderful mix of cowboys and critters flying
through the air in a wonderful dance while they all sang their hearts
out for the couple they were honoring. The ponies were a bit
nonplused, but Waco sent to them they all just recently discovered
their new talents. The winged-ponies relaxed and a great time was
had by all.
The humans and
the critters waved goodbye to Waco and Trey as the ponies circled one
last time and headed back over the tree tops to the other valley.
Their visit was over, and it was time for the ponies to return the
lovers to their nest. It was wonderful to feel the rush of warm
air against their bodies as they could hear the final chorus of the
song beginning to fade in the distance.
Tell me why the
stars do shine,
Tell me why the
ivy twines,
Tell me why the
skies are blue,
And I will tell
you just why I love you.
They landed on
the lawn and Waco thanked the beautiful horses for the ride. Trey
thanked them as well. They wasted no time departing and flew back
over the trees to join the others. Waco and Trey stood hand in
hand watching the last traces of the beautiful creatures
disappear. Trey took his cowboy into his arms.
“That’s going to
be a tough act to follow, little one.”
“Am I really so
small to you, Captain?” Waco teased.
“Only in my
heart. You’re growing by leaps and bounds and will soon be
warrior size, but I remember the young boy who I first met as Captain
of his own ship. I thought to myself how neatly he would fit into
my heart. I wasn’t wrong. You’ve dwelt comfortably within
me these last four years. You will always be my little one, the
love that fits neatly into the pocket of my heart.”
“As big as your
heart is, I would think there’s plenty of room for me to grow.” Waco
teased.
“I should hope
so, but the mind’s eye sees differently than the eyes in my head.”
“I always
suspected you had a bit of the poet inside you, Captain.”
“Not
really. I’ve never eaten one that I know of— I undersand they're
way too difficult to clean.” Trey shot back. Waco groaned.
The men walked
hand in hand back into the building and up the stairs to their
apartment. They shared one final drink on the balcony. They
were in no hurry. They had the rest of their lives to enjoy their
love. Waco carried a deep itch within him he knew only one
body within the universe could scratch. He leaned into his larger
mate, laid his head on his massive shoulder and whispered in his ear,
“I’m ready,
Captain Hogarth Treygor Vinceeth. I am yours.” Waco whispered and
brushed his lips against his warrior’s ear.
“Then, Captain
Waco Lariat Goodnight, this night I will take what is given unto me as
my
own. You and your slave will become the shared warriors of my
heart.” Trey reached down and scooped Waco up into his massive arms,
kissed him deeply and passionately, then carried him to their waiting
bed.
End of Chapter
45 ~ Waco’s Lummox
Copyright 2007 ~
Waddie Greywolf
All Rights
Reserved ~
Mail to:
waddiebear@yahoo.com
*Xenophene =
Ze-noff-a-nee
* Belerophon =
Be-lero-faun