7Stars

Seek Him What Made Them Seven Stars
By Waddie Greywolf

Chapter 75

"One day, when I was a young boy, I saw a mother otter with her cubs. Even as I watched, the mother otter dived into the water and came up with a plump salmon, which she subdued. Of course it was still alive, and as she proceeded to eat it, the body split and the pink roe spilled out much to the delight of the baby otters. Mother and children dining upon mother and children. And that is when I first learned about evil. It is built into the very nature of the universe. Every world spins in pain. If there is any kind of supreme being, it is up to us to become his moral superior." ~ Lord Vetinari; a character created by Terry Pratchett for his 'Discworld' series.

The next morning was Tuesday, and the cowboys were up and at it well before the crack of dawn. Billy told Doug Quilty and Wes Taylor to be ready by six o'clock as the family sat down to breakfast at seven. Billy punched Doug's number and the big man responded almost immediately.

“Good morning, Master Billy,” Doug answered the ring.

“Good morning to you, Mr. Quilty. Are you and Mr. Taylor ready to spend the morning with us cowboys in the Hill Country?” Billy asked.

“We're up and ready. We already had a cup of instant coffee. Wes stayed the night in my guest bedroom so's we would both be here and on time,” Doug said.

“Good! I like organized men what keep their word,” Billy said, “Now, set your cell phone on a table and stand back a ways,” Billy said.

Doug already had the phone on speaker, set it down on dining table, and he and Wes moved several yards away. “We're ready, Master Billy,” Doug said. There was a bright flash of light, a gate appeared near the table, and Billy, Nick, and Boomer walked through.

“Morning, Gentlemen,” Billy took off his hat and hailed the two men.

“Damn, Mr. Daniels, that's frick'n awesome!” exclaimed Wes Taylor, stepping forward to take Billy's free hand and shook it like he was priming an old rusty pump handle.

Billy grinned and shook Doug's hand next. “Good to see you men, again. Grab your things, let's us mount up and ride for the Hill Country,” he said and the men shared a laugh.

“This certainly beats riding five to six hours in that old, uncomfortable TV van,” Doug allowed.

The men walked through the gate into the hallway of the big house on the ranch. Billy showed Doug and Wes where to set their equipment on a grand old oak table next to the stairs. “Just set them things down on this table. Nobody will bother them,” Billy said, and the men did as they were told.

They followed Billy, Nick, and Boomer into the kitchen area where the main family was gathered and everyone hailed them. One by one, each person came and took their hand to welcome them like they were long lost family come to visit for a spell. They made Doug and Wes feel like family. The family sat down to eat and the two men were in awe of the food the ladies prepared. They heard cowboys ate big breakfasts, but they weren't prepared for the large amount of food several of the cowboys, like Moss and Enoch, could pack away. There wasn't as many folks as usual because Tom McMartin, his wife, and boys gated back to the cabin and drove home from there.

“We've prepared a video for you to take back with you to edit any way you please. It's about two hours long,” Billy said.

“Make that four hours, Master Billy,” Cowboy Andy said, “We got to talk'n about the amount of stuff we had left over and some of it was pert-dang good, so Aunt Helen told us to just include the rest. Mr. Quilty and Mr. Taylor can pick and choose what they want to use,” he explained.

“Good to know,” Billy replied, “I was gonna' suggest we take time to run though the tape; however, after four hours sit'n and my butt would need major reconstruction. Why don't we just do the interview and you men can intersperse what you like and leave the rest; or, you might want to use some later. Ain't nothing in there what I ain't approved. Over time, I seen all them clips. I just don't care to sit through them again. How long a segment did they give you men?” Billy asked.

“A full hour, Master Billy. They're pulling out all the stops. Several major news groups have bought into showing your interview. We're afraid it's gone national. They got several major corporations for sponsors. Funny thing is, they heard you're pretty liberal in your thinking, but they still want to sponsor. We also got a host of non-profit offers, but theirs weren't near as high as the corporate boys. Wes and I talked about it, and we wonder if they're gonna' like what they hear,” Doug Quilty replied.

“Do you men plan to downplay my more liberal ideas?” Billy asked.

“Absolutely not!” Doug exclaimed, “But we can't predict what the big boys over us will demand. If we're lucky, we can play the accept-it-as-is or not at all ploy, but that might raise a red flag they won't like it; or, we might present you as a young, naive idealist whom the corporate shills will see as refreshing but won't feel threatened by you. Let's face it, sir, they got a choke-hold on our country and economy. They feel pretty damn smug about their power and ability to put-down anything or anybody what goes against them or gets in their way. They use money like a bulldozer. Nothing gets done without their approval and financial backing; however, like Goliath, they might just feel so mighty they see themselves as invincible and won't see you as a threat,” Doug added.

“Do you see me as a threat, Doug?” Billy asked.

“God no, Master Billy! I see you as a ray of hope. I don't know everything yet, just what kind of backing you got, or what power you might wield, but from what we seen so far, I'm willing to bet you got the means and the talent to make major inroads of change in our society a possibility. Your idea of leading by example is unheard of in our day and age, because no one has ever possessed the wherewithal to do such a thing let alone the personnel it would take to do it,” Doug said, “You can't fault me or Wes for having our doubts, but I know we're united in our dedication to give you a good cover and a fight'n chance,” he added.

“I agree with my partner, Master Billy. We talked about it a lot, what it could mean to us, and we wanna' see you succeed,” Wes Taylor said, “I don't know a Hell of a lot about government and economics, but I do know our country is running on fumes. The churchy-fied military industrial complex we was warned about back in the fifties is the new Neo-nazi corporate-socialistic oligarchy. I feel something should be done, but we ain't got no heroes to come along to say 'no' to power and ride it down hard like a wild bronc. We had a couple come along, but they killed them. Maybe a cowboy can do it. I don't know, but I'd shore' like to think you's just the buckaroo what can do the job,” Wes shared his thoughts.

“What if we run across something in your footage we ain't real sure about including in the final copy, Master Billy?” Doug asked.

“If it's on the DVD, you got my permission to use it,” Billy said confidently, “When do they want you men to get it together? How much time you got?” he asked.

“You know them corporate types, Master Billy, they want it done yesterday. If we play our cards right, we might be able to put them off until the last minute to show them anything. By then, there won't be time to change anything they find disagreeable to them. They're giving us a full hour national slot Sunday evening. All the major networks will be carrying it except Fox. They're so solidly right-wing they ain't interested in anything what ain't money based or destroying someone's life. All the others want a piece of the Billy Daniels' pie,” Doug said and grimaced like he just might be on his way to an execution.

“Worried, Brother?” Billy asked and grinned.

“Somewhat, but I'm far enough along in my career, I ain't afraid to take chances; beside, if I play my cards right, I just might become president and general manager of the Highland Shire Broadcasting System in the near future,” Doug said and laughed.

“You just might at that, Mr. Quilty,” Billy said, laughed, and the men shook hands.

Billy showed the men the house and asked where they would like to set up for the interview. Doug and Wes walked away from Billy and talked quietly among themselves and finally nodded their a heads in agreement. “We'd like to do the main interview upstairs in your office on the top of the big house. Later we'd like to have you play something for us on the stage where you have the barnyard concerts, sir,” Doug said.

Billy agreed, and they did the interview in two hours. The rest of the time they spent following Billy around and filming him playing at the concert stage. They did a lot more interview than they could cram into an hour, but they explained they could pick and choose what they wanted and how best to intersperse it with scenes from the video. It took about four hours total. Billy played several pieces which they recorded, and the Irin cowboys and cowgirls who weren't working and members of Billy's family made up the audience. They applauded politely for Billy after he played brilliantly. They fed the men lunch and Billy and his men took them back to Doug's condo. There were handshakes, hugs, pats on the back, and many promises to get together again soon.

“Would you want to review the final cut, Master Billy?” Doug asked.

“No, I trust you men's judgment and talent. You'll do your best by me. I ain't worried none,” Billy replied and smiled.

“We'll do our best, sir,” Wes assured him.

“I know you will, Mr. Taylor. Good luck to you men, and we enjoyed having you to the ranch this morning,” Billy said.

“We appreciate your time, cooperation, and hospitality, Master Billy, and the best of luck to you, sir,” Doug Quilty said.

The men left and the gate disappeared. Doug looked at Wes, smiled, and shook his head. “Why do I feel like I just said goodbye to my younger brother like he was going off to war, and I might never see him again?” Doug asked, "Why do I feel so damn empty inside?" he asked.

“Hell, I don't know, but I thought I's going crazy there for a minute. Glad you said something, Partner, I feel the same damn way. We got to make this good, Doug,” Wes replied.

“We will. We got the talent. We got the know-how, and we got the time. Let's make it as perfect a story as we can. Let's make some popcorn, open a beer, kick off our boots, pop that DVD in the player, and see what Master Billy's got for us in them four hours of video,” Doug said.

“You got a rubber-doughnut around the place for my ass?” Wes asked teasing.

“No, but the couch wraps itself around you like a lonesome old whore,” Doug replied and laughed.

“Good enough! Let's pop corn, Brother!” Wes said, and the men moved to the kitchen.

* * * * * * *
Billy went back to the ship with Nick and sat under Seth's scanners for the final session he needed to be qualified as a pilot in one of the scout-ships. He didn't plan on bumping one of Nick's regular pilots or one who logged far more flight-time than him, but he just wanted the experience. Once again Sweet Sue, as he began to call his S2P at the beginning and end of their sessions, was a gracious, and understanding host. Billy was all the more impressed with the female synth. Afterward, Nick showed him some of the neat little apps available with the scout-ships he could program and use to cause any kind of mischief or confusion he wanted. Billy discovered one app what simulated the old bi-planes which would barn-storm around the countryside with long streaming banners following behind, advertising anything from Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus coming to town to a Firestone Tire sale at Western-Auto. Billy got an idea, and after going into a detail description of his plan, asked Nick if it might be possible. Nick damn near fell off his chair laughing. Billy tried to calm him. He was sure the big Cowboy-Angel was going to have a stroke. His face got red as a beet.

“Only a cowboy would come up with something so off-the-wall crazy, Kemosabe. That's outrageous!” Nick exclaimed.

“If'n h'it's so damn outrageous, why the Hell are you laughing, Tonto?” Billy asked.

“Because it just ain't never been done before, I guess; ain't nobody ever thought about it,” Nick knew better. He knew Billy would pounce on his reply like a cat on a fat mouse.

“They's always a first time, Pa,” Billy said and grinned impishly, “That's what you done told me the first night we's together, and it turned out all right,” he added and grinned.

“It turned out better'n all right, Son. I might expect something like 'iss from our Bossman, but not you; not my serious, down-to-Earth-brown-dirt-cowboy; not my faithful stalwart companion, Kemosabe!” Nick challenged.

“Is it possible? Can we do it?” Billy asked.

“Of course it's possible. Don't see why not. You write it up, I'll have Seth program it into the apps, and tell him you will give your S2P the order when to activate,” Nick said.

“Good! Now that's the Tonto, my faithful companion and wing-man I know and love what would do some'um so absolutely crazy to please his Kemosabe,” Billy said and laughed, “Now where do I type in the info, Pa?” Billy asked eager to accomplish his bit of cowboy nonsense.

“Here! Use this keyboard, and when you're through, click here to type in the program's name, hit 'enter' to send it to file; then hit 'enter' again to run a simulation,” Nick explained, “What chu' gonna' name it, Kemosabe?” Nick asked.

“Burma-shave!” Billy exclaimed and drew a blank look from Nick. He had no idea what Billy was referring to, “It's an old joke,” Billy added.

It only took Billy a couple of minutes to program the app, he entered it into Seth's system, typed in the name, hit the 'enter' button, then hit it again and a simulation of his program slowly crossed the screen. Billy thought Nick was going to have a conniption fit he was laughing so hard. “And you were the one who didn't want to buzz no passenger jets and draw attention to our mission,” he managed to get out, wiping away the tears from his eyes with his bandanna.

“What was it Will Tate told me? In for a penny, in for a pound?” Billy asked in response and laughed at Nick's laughter, “Nobody will be the wiser, pa,” Billy said.

“Oh, no? They's lots of folks out there who know your brand of humor what are gonna' recognize it immediately as one of yore' little stunts the minute they hear about it,” Nick assured him.

“Perhaps, but you gotta' admit it's downright slap-yore'-knee-fall-on-the-floor funny, Tonto,” Billy said.

“It's frick'n hilarious, Kemosabe,” Nick agreed.

* * * * * * *
Captain Nick, Billy, and Boomer gated to the castle and met again with the Giants and Fallen Angels. They expressed an interest, and wanted to discuss some ideas for the mission. Nick opened a gate, and they went to the holding bay for the docked scout-ships. They wanted to know an approximate number going on the mission. Billy told them he learned from a reliable source, there might possibly be a larger number of slumbering angels than historical records recount, so he planned to take a greater complement of men than he previously considered. They agreed, but no one seemed to know the exact number of Fallen Angels in the stasis chambers.

“There was such confusion in those day, Master Billy. They shared nothing with us. There was such secrecy, we lived every day in abject terror. Our entire infrastructure collapsed. Up until the last minutes, we didn't know who would be placed in stasis or who they would chose to keep as their slaves. As we shared with you, if it hadn't been for Metatron sacrificing himself for us, we never would have escaped. Only a handful like Nick, Clyde, Andrew, Balthazar, Zeke, Ipos, and them Cajun angels and several others managed to be rescued by the Watchers and the Irin. We don't think Metatron even knows how many are in the vault,” Uriel said speaking for the others.

“You're right. Metatron don't know either. We got it confirmed by a couple of good sources,” Billy said but didn't make reference to Marcus or Madam Spartza.

How many do you plan to take with you, sir?” Uriel asked.

“Right at a hundred men – give or take. I cain't say for sure, because there might be several what decides they want to be included before I cut off the enlistment period which will be just before we go to the stables on this ship, kneel before our great Shedu protectors, ask their blessing, and have a small ceremony to bind us together as a blood family. Gabriel bring your horn. If there's as many as five hundred of them sleeping beauties, we will awaken them, and get them to the twenty ships. Even with our hundred cowboy-angels, the total count should only be thirty bodies on each ship for the flight back to the hill country. According to ma' pa, every ship can carry fifty to eighty people without too much stress. I foresee more stress on us Cowboy-Angels than them ships,” Billy said and several men agreed. “Have any of you Angels ever been in the stasis chamber or been near the entrance?” Billy asked.

“No, sir, we don't know anymore about it than you do. It will be a first experience for us. We've heard it's guarded by Demons from Hell, the so-called Hounds of Hell, but we don't know for sure. We were lied to so much we never knew what to believe. We could never stand around and have a talk like we're doing with you where everyone is free to exchange ideas and feel comfortable enough to point out flaws in logic or weakness in a plan. We had so much bowing and scraping to do, we feared for our lives most of the time, and we were created to be immortal. We are physically, but that only means we won't die from old age. Our bodies are self-replicating; however, we can be terminated by disembowelment, decapitation, or being torn apart by Demons. We were threatened at every turn, and sometimes, it just seemed like we couldn't do anything to please them aliens what called themselves gods,” Gabriel said.

“They were used to having everything they could possibly want, they became jaded and ill tempered about the least little thing. They were nothing more than parasites with advanced intelligence, what came to suck this beautiful planet dry and then move on to another world to do the same. We were merely their foot soldiers, their super-servants. When we developed empathy for the natives and tried to help them, they threatened to terminate us. Only problem was, and lucky for us, they were cheap-ass mother-fuckers; they had so much invested in our creation, they didn't want to destroy us in case they decided to come back and needed us again. We talked among ourselves and come to the conclusion, if they ain't come back in ten thousand years, chances are pert-damn good they won't never come back a' tall,” old Zeke allowed.

“I promise you men will have options, Gentlemen. No one will intimidate you or force you to do anything you don't want to do. None of you are required to go on this mission. No one here must stay with me and my family, with one exception. I can't let my old Zeke go because him and me, we speak the same language, we's become buddies. If you look real close, it ain't too difficult to see, we done become joined at the hip like Siamese-twin brothers. I come to love this old Cowboy-Angel, and it would break ma' heart to say goodbye to him. I think on Zeke like he's my older brother, and I won't never be able to find me no better trumpet player,” Billy said and laughed. Zeke hugged, and kissed Billy on his cheek. The others shared a laugh with them.

“Hosanna!” exclaimed Gabriel.

“Hosanna, in the highest!” the other men replied.

“We were given other options on both worlds, Master Billy – not once, but several times by both races, and we declined every offer. We made it clear to the leaders of them worlds we wanted to come back to Earth, become a part of your family, and set things right, if we can. To a man, we have accepted that responsibility, and as your Cowboy-Angels, we are morally obligated to go with you on this mission. You must have no doubt, sir, there ain't one among us what don't want to be here and follow you wherever you choose to lead us,” Uriel said firmly.

“Quite frankly, Master Billy,” spoke up Ipos Kokobiel, “While we know you're being influenced by your surrogate pa, Captain Nick, to go on this mission and set things right with our brothers, we fully embrace the idea and would like to see the situation rectified in their favor, sir,” he said.

Rather than breaking out the marshmallows, building a campfire, and sitting around singing 'Kumbaya,' Billy thanked the men and broke up the meeting after he was satisfied their questions were answered, and he covered their concerns. He planned to provide them with a small ceremony just before the trip what would join them together into a cohesive unit.

* * * * * * *
Wes Taylor and Doug Quilty sat looking at the huge flat screen TV in Doug's living room long after the final scene was gone from the four-hour DVD Billy gave them.

“Something's wrong, Doug,” Wes said not daring to take his eyes from the screen.

“What, Buddy?” Doug asked.

“That couldn't have been four hours long,” Wes said.

“E'aup! It was four hours. We sat down at one, and it's right at five P.M., Brother,” Doug said with a deep sigh.

“I'm still hungry, but not for food. I want more Billy. No that ain't right neither. I crave more Billy,” Wes said quietly.

“Yeah, me too, Pod'na, it was very probably the most remarkable video I ever done seen,” Doug agreed, “Fastest damn four hours I ever spent in my life. I wanna' watch it again,” Doug said.

“We got two hours worth of interview to review, Brother,” Wes reminded his boss.

“Did you wonder how they got some of that footage of Billy and his rope'n partner, the big cowboy named Moss Garrett, winning the local rope'n contest; or, Billy riding that huge bull to win the bull riding part of the rodeo? We couldn't get video of that quality if we were in the ring with them,” Doug said.

“We got our work cut out for us, Pard'ner,” Wes said.

“Look, I'll order take-out – on my dime – and we can watch the interview footage. We break for the night, and see how we feel in the morning at work. We'll meet for breakfast at that little mom and pop diner in the mall to form a strategy before we have to report to the heads. We don't tell them how much we got, and we edit it the way we want it – not the way we think they might want it,” Doug outlined his plan.

“Sounds good to me, Boss,” Wes agreed.

“What do you want? Pizza, Burgers, Tex-Mex, Chinese, Japanese, or Cajun,” Doug asked.

“You feel like a Whataburger, Boss?” Wes asked.

“Oh, Hell, yeah! I'm always up for a Whataburger. We got one in that small mall at the end of the block. They know me. I order from them a couple of times a month,” Doug said. He already had the number punched into his phone and placed the order. The men put the DVD into the machine and ran the first thirty minutes waiting for the food. They paused it when the doorbell rang while Doug went to gather the food and pay the delivery man. When he returned, and they were divvying up the food, Doug let out a deep sigh. “Let's face it. Our footage is just as good. I don't think it would matter much what camera you point at that cowboy, they all seem to fall in love with him. They love themselves some Billy Daniels, Pod'na,” Doug Quilty said and laughed.

“It makes our jobs easier, Boss,” Wes said.

“I'm convinced, it won't matter what or how we put it together, it will be the most talked about news program of the decade,” Doug declared, “Eat your heart out, Parsons!” he threw back his head and yelled. The men shared a laugh.

“Do you plan to use some of the more radical clips from the stuff he gave us, Boss?” Wes asked.

“You mean the conversation with the flying pup and them singing a duet before the Houston Symphony Orchestra?” Doug asked.

“They's several like that with them dogs talking to everyone,” Wes said.

“Do you think he added that stuff to test us, Son?” Doug asked.

“No! You asked him, point-blank, if we could use anything on the DVD. Ain't no way that cowboy could have misunderstood your question. How many times did the two words 'Cowboy-Way' come up in conversation and our interview with him, Boss?” Wes asked.

“More than I can remember. I get your point,Wes, and it's a good'un. He told us to use anything on the DVD we wanted, and he's a man of his word. I think he intended for us to use it,” Doug Quilty replied, as he clicked the button on the remote to start the video of the interview again.

* * * * * * *
Before leaving the nether-region of the docking bay, Billy told his gathered Cowboy-Angels there would be another meeting an hour before supper the following evening before they got aboard the scout-ships and took off. Billy asked the staff to move supper up one hour, so they should make note of the time and meet one hour before. Everyone going on the mission needed to be there for the final briefing. After the meeting, no others could join their group. Going into the meeting would close the door for any last minute volunteers. After the final briefing, they would quietly move to the dungeon area where they would remove their clothes, and they would go in together, as family, to ask a final blessing from their great Shedus. After their blessing, they would get dressed, and go into supper together in the great hall. Billy asked if there were any questions, but no one responded.

* * * * * * *
Billy's Uncle Nathan and his mate, Tron Garrett learned from Moss and Enoch, the time was close for 'the mission' to take place. The younger men took them to the cloakroom to tell them. Nathan and Tron were righteously indignant Billy didn't say anything to them or gave them a chance to be included. He was unprepared when they ambushed and confronted him. “I thought you men might like to stay, see to the ranch, and take care of the ladies. You'd be doing me a great service and give me peace of mind knowing ever'thing here was being looked after. We ain't got us no idea what we're getting ourselves into or what we's going up against. I just imagined you mature men might like to leave the swashbuckling shit up to us younger generation,” Billy said.

Nathan looked at Tron with a blank look what said, 'Can you believe what my nephew just said to us?' Tron shook his head, turned, walked a few steps away, and started laughing. “That's just wrong-headed think'n, Son. We got us six bunkhouses of fine, dedicated, strong, upright, Irin cowboys and cowgirls to see to the ladies if they need anything. I ain't even gonna' go into the age thing. That's just plumb wrong on so many levels h'it ain't worth discussing. Don't make me pull rank on you, boy. You just plan on and make room for two more Cowboy-Angels. End of discussion!” Nathan exclaimed as Tron Garrett broke up laughing.

“Ramrod Garrett...?” Billy tried to get Tron's attention to feel him out.

“Our Bossman has spoken, Master Billy. To save face and keep peace in the family, I suggest you chalk this one up as a growing lesson,” Tron said firmly, grinned, and winked at Billy.

“Yes, sir, Ramrod, I'll take your advice. Supper on the ship has been moved up an hour for tomorrow night. You may check with the ships synthetic-intelligence, Seth, for times and details. We scheduled a meeting an hour before supper on the ship to meet with our Great Shedus for their blessing. Gate to the dungeon on the ship to remove your clothing. Wear what you plan to wear on our mission because an hour after supper we will board the scout-ships and take off,” Billy explained.

“We'll be there with our old-folk's four-pointer walkers, Son, ready to go,” Nathan said and laughed. Tron joined his mate, but Billy didn't. He felt bad. He apologize to the men and left.

“I think you hurt his feelings, Boss,” Tron said.

“Naw, he's just embarrassed. He knows we're right. He'll get over it. It takes more'n my high-and-mighty Uncle Nate routine to hurt that kid's feelings. Besides, he's got a Hell of a lot more on his mind than you and me. We's the least of his worries right now,” Nathan said and smiled.

* * * * * * *
His Uncle Nathan and Tron rattled Billy so bad, he forgot the reason he walked up to the big house in the first place, and then it came to him, he needed to call his little brother and ask to borrow his new foreman for the morning, and he would send Ram home by a gate after he had lunch with his family. Billy wanted to take some extra Irin cowboys with him just in case there were many more Angels in stasis than anyone imagined. He wanted to be prepared to the point of being over prepared if necessary. It was a once-in-a-lifetime chance on both accounts, and he wanted the odds stacked in his and the sleeping Angel's favor for a successful rescue. He no sooner walked into the old barn and started to whip out his cell-phone when a gate sprang up and two men walked through in military fatigues, combat boots, with AK-47 automatic assault rifles strapped over their shoulders, with back-packs loaded with extra ammo.

“Woah! Where the Hell did you men come from?” Billy exclaimed, and then he recognized them. “Tree? Tank? What the fuck! What are you men doing here? You liked to scared me to death,” Billy exclaimed.

“Sorry, Master Billy, we done got a phone call from our nephew, Tommy, telling us he's been in touch with your little brother, Randy. Said you men was planning an assault on a dangerous position to rescue some fallen comrade-at-arms and needed all the help you can get. We got out our old military gear and brought our rifles along to give you a hand. We's here to help, sir,” Tree Griffin explained.

“Holy shit! This is get'n out of hand, but it ain't you men's fault. It's considerate and noble of you to wanna' help, even if you don't know the situation. C'moan and follow me,” Billy said and took off his cowboy shirt. He waved his hand and the gate they came through disappeared. “I take it ma' little brother sent the gate to your place,” Billy said.

“Yes, sir, we left our cell-phone on, and he followed the signal,”Tank said.

“Shit! It takes two of us to triangulate a signal. Wonder how he done it?” Billy said shaking his head.

“Our nephew give him the second set of co-ordinates from his coign of vantage in Hurst, Texas,” Tree said.

“Of course, h'it don't matter none where you are in relationship to the target. That's damn smart of them kids. I gotta' remember that,” Billy said and laughed.

About that time, Nick and Boomer walked up looking for Billy. “You men remember Doutry Griffin and Tank Barger from The Woodlands area; the uncles of little Tommy Griffin. They just gated in unannounced and like'd to scared the b'Jesus out of me, thanks to their nephew and our Bossman near Fredericksburg. They got word we's having ourselves a big rumble wiff' the Jets gang, and they wanna' volunteer,” Billy said and winked at Nick and Boomer. “Hold ma' shirt for me, Mr. Griffin,” Billy said, disappeared, and reappeared fully fledged. “I'm gonna' take us to the 'cloakroom' where us Cowboy-Angels wing-up so's we can have some privacy,” Billy said and transported Tree, Tank, Nick, and Boomer to the nether-region of the cloakroom.

“What is this place?” Tree asked.

“It's a dimension between two dimensions. A nether-region which ain't neither. It's where we come to dump our wings for a while. We can't be overheard here. We's trying to keep all this on the down-low. Of course, my little brother ain't help'n none get'n you men all stoved up. Damn, you look like them Marines from that old “Platoon” movie. Truth is, we probably could use your help, but do you have any idea the scope of what we're about to do?” Billy asked.

“Rescuing some comrades what got themselves caught in a trap behind enemy lines what need to be liberated?” Tank Barger asked, “We got plenty of combat time in the Marines, Master Billy, and we're loaded for bear and ready to roll. We even scored a dozen 'Pineapples' to toss at the enemy,” he added.

“Well, at least my little brother is disguising our real mission with a fantasy one. We ain't going behind no enemy lines. We're flying to Turkey tomorrow evening to make an assault on a crypt underneath Mount Ararat some three to five miles underground to rescue an unknown number of Fallen-Angels what were placed in stasis thousands of years ago. This ain't us against a country. This is us rescuing the brothers of a number of Fallen-Angels we done already got in our family like my pa, here, Captain Nick. We got us about twenty more what managed to escape entombment who are going with us. We been told their resting place is guarded by terrible monsters referred to in ancient texts as the Guardians of Hell or the Hounds of Hell. We don't even know if they can be killed or stopped. We're taking a big gamble. Still interested?” Billy asked.

“Hell, yes! They don't call us Marines Devil Dogs for nothing, sir,” Tree Griffin exclaimed and his mate agreed.

“To be honest, we ain't even thought of using guns, but who knows, they might come in handy. We're flying blind into this mission. This is one a' them places where the old saying was born: fools rush in where Angels fear to tread. We don't know what to expect or how dangerous it is. I'm taking that sword you see over there. It's the original Excalibur what once belonged to King Aurthur. It ain't a defensive weapon. It's offensive. It don't smell bad or nothing, h'it just don't hurt nobody; it repels them, and keeps them from hurting you. I suppose you could run somebody through with it, but that weren't how it was intended to be used. We ain't out to kill nobody, but rescue them Angels what's been asleep thousands of years to give them a second chance,” Billy said.

“How you gonna' get there and back without being seen, sir?” Tank asked.

“Best way is to show you. You can also talk with the giants tomorrow, but just make sure you're in one a these nether-regions,” Billy said, “Still interested?” he asked again.

“Bet chore' sweet cowboy butt, sir!” Tank exclaimed and grinned.

“There could be casualties. We just don't know. Are all your affairs in order?” Billy asked.

“Everything is in order, Master Billy. We're hot for some action, sir,” Tree confirmed.

“Let's get you men to Captain Nick's ship and get you billeted for the night. The other men will fill you in on the details as we go,” Billy said, raised his wings, and transported them to the dungeon in the castle. The Giants welcomed the two Cowboy-Warriors with handshakes, hugs, hardy slaps on the back, and a few stolen kisses. Tank and Tree felt like it was a homecoming. The Giants put them up in the same room they stayed in their last couple of visits, and they were comfortable. They met and became good friends with Bart Langstrom who served his obligatory three years in the non-stop middle east petro-wars. He was also a Marine and had much in common with the other cowboys.

* * * * * * *
Billy finally found a minute to get off by himself, gated to his office in the tower of the big house and gave Ruth Rutherford a call. She was happy to hear from Billy, but knew it had to be something about the ranch or Randy. “What can we do for you, Mr. Daniels?” Ruth asked.

“Would it be all right with you if I was to have Randy and Foreman Snoddy gate over here in the morning for breakfast? I need them to pick out some Irin Cowboys for a job we got coming up, and I'm in need of their talents. I promise to have them back to your place before noon or they can eat lunch wiff' us and then I'll send them home, ma'am,” Billy asked.

“Sure, no problem. I know they'll enjoy it. It will be a nice break for them. They been working pretty hard. We couldn't be more pleased with Mr. Snoddy. I don't dare call him 'Ram' anymore,” Ruth said and broke up laughing. She got a laugh out of Billy, “If Randy don't get on my case, Kayla does,” she added, and they shared another laugh.

“The boy's right, Mrs. Rutherford, everyone on the ranch should show him respect, and I certainly don't plan to let my little buddy down,” Billy replied. “So is it all right with you if I contact Randy and let him know?” Billy asked.

“Sure. Hope it all works out for you, Billy,” Ruth said.

“With them two cowboy's help, I can't fail, ma'am,” Billy said and signed off.

Billy didn't bother with the phone, propped his big boots up on the corner of his desk, crossed his feet, leaned back in the comfortable leather chair, closed his eyes and sent out a tickle.

<< Zat' chu,' Master Billy? >> Randy asked.

<< It's me, little Brother, >> Billy replied.

<< You mad at me? >> Randy asked.

<< Naw, not a bit. Maybe a little disappointed you didn't share or remind me about them men. We got so many folks come'n and go'n in our lives sometimes I can't keep track of all of 'um. That's where you come in. You don't never fergit nothing, but next time, gimme' a shout out and a warning what to expect. They come fog'n through that gate you and your brother set up in full Marine uniforms, wiff' combat boots and AK-47 automatic rifles slung over their shoulders. Liked to scared the pee-waddlin' out this old cowboy. It took several minutes to swallow my heart back down; it tried to jump out of my body by way of my mouth, Son. I damn near pissed ma' Wranglers, >> Billy sent and heard Randy laughing his ass off in his mind.

<< Well, you might as well know, Uncle Tom done heard it through the grapevine, and he's hurt you ain't said nothing to him. He called me twice last night and tickled me three times this afternoon want'n to know if I done heard from you. I know you so well by now, Brother, I know what you're doing, but you cain't leave out them what loves you just because you see them as being a little higher up the social ladder than a common cowboy, >> Randy sent with empathy.

<< Yeah, you're right, little Bro, I done got my ass chewed out by my uncle earlier this afternoon and his Ramrod t'weren't none too happy wiff' me, neither, >> Billy confessed.

<< Besides, you gotta' consider, Uncle Tom's got them two boys what worship the ground their dad walks on, and I gotta' say, I'm proud they find me worthy to worship at his big boots wiff' 'um. He's a good man. I only hope I grow up to be half as good as Tom McMartin. Uncle Tom's got an image to uphold to us boys, and he takes his job seriously. I thank them ancients and a ring-tail cat he does, >> Randy sent.

<< It was the ring-tail cat what convinced me, Bossman, >> Billy sent, and they shared a laugh. << You sure he wants to go wiff' us, Son? >> Billy asked.

<< Don't matter none what I think. The right thing to do is be honest wiff' him, give him a choice, and let him decide. It's the Cowboy Way, Brother, and you know it! >> Randy exclaimed.

<< I do know it, and I will. I already done got chore' momma' permission to have you and your new foreman, Mr. Ramson Snoddy, gate over here early in the morning for breakfast. I need you men to pick out about fifty Irin cowboys what will be going wiff' us on our little trip, >> Billy sent, but Randy paused for a moment.

Billy could feel his little brother take a deep breath and let it out in a sigh. << Do I have to tell you what's gonna' happen, Brother? >> Randy asked.

<< I'm afraid I got way too much shit go'n on in my heard right now to second guess. Lay it on me, Little Brother. I'm sitting down in a comfortable chair, >> Billy sent.

<< My foreman ain't gonna' let you go on this mission without him. Why? He loves you! Pure and simple. He loves me and my family. I know him so well, I know he will insist on going to look-out for my uncle. And if you're the cowboy I think you are, you'll let him go with you without an argument, because I love you both. Furthermore, I promise I won't whine and nag you none to take me along; although, I will never pass up the opportunity to point out to you I probably got more apps what could possibly make a difference between success or failure, >> Randy said.

<< Point well taken, sir. I accept your terms, Bossman. You drive a hard bargain, Buckaroo, but it's part of why I come to love you, >> Billy sent.

<< It just make good sense, Master Billy. Ain't no manipulate'n here. Of course, I won't sleep a wink until I get a tickle from you on your way back, >> Randy said.

<< See you in the morning, Bossman, wiff' your fine looking Foreman, Mr. Snoddy, by your side, >> Billy signed off.

<< See you soon, Brother, >> Randy sent.

* * * * * * *
Billy sat at his computer and typed out an e-mail to Tom McMartin: Dear Uncle Tom. Your surrogate nephew done read me the riot-act about the Cowboy Way, why we should be upfront with folks, and give them options. I agree with him. You know the business deal I been talking about for sometime trying to reawaken interest among them cowboys what folded under heavy market pressure some years ago? We're planning a round-up of interested parties. It's my hope to offer them a deal they can't refuse and bring them into our grange to merge with a promise of a brighter future for everyone concerned. On the down side: unknown territory, untested situation; perhaps weaker assets than expected; shaky intel suggests more boots off-the-ground than polls confirm; dangerous, and risky at best. On the up side; sturdy, time-tested resources; lots of talent gathered for a strong presentation; dedicated negotiators, and a prediction from two big cows in-the-know about speculative futures whose predictions are respected by most high-finance mavens, predict the merger will be tight but successful, with one set back we can correct later. Don't wish to discuss details. Might be unwise at this juncture. Your suggestion of using whispers in the 'cloakroom' have served us well. Hope to hear from you soon. Your faithful cowboy, Billy Daniels, Manager, Hill Country Grange Co-op. Billy read it, smiled, and hit the send button.

About an hour later, Billy's cell phone buzzed. It was a brief message from Tom: “Will be proud and honored to stand by your side to help negotiate merger for a taste of the action. Family transcends monetary considerations. Belonging is a difficult commodity to price. Heroes can be made in a boardroom as well as on a battle ground. See you for breakfast tomorrow morning. Thanks for your consideration, Mr. Daniels. It's always a pleasure doing business with you and your family. Your Bossman was right. All my best, Tom McMartin.” Billy smiled as he clicked off his phone. He felt comfortable, and a bit more secure. The young cowboy was certain Tom understood his cryptic message.

* * * * * * *
Later that evening, just before supper was served on the ship there was a big commotion in the giant's quarters. Billy was visiting Aunt Helen and her staff and planned for everyone connected to the coming mission to be close and available for last minute consultations about any changes in plans. They were going to sit down together as family for supper. From what seemed to be a fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants effort several days before, was beginning to come together like an egg-based custard in the last few minutes of cooking. The worry of a new, would-be chef, became known by seasoned cooks as 'quiche anxiety.' They were living proof, real men do eat quiche.

The grooms, Mace and Picard, along with Poly and Cass, came running into Aunt Helen's suite of offices in the castle all excited. They announced to their master and his staff they watched three people come through a gate from Retikki Prime with several anti-grav carts packed to the brim with personal belongings and other things which were not adequately explained to them. They knew few details for their master except one was a strikingly good looking warrior-dwarf named Jurgen Ironmonger and his young daughter, Felicity, accompanied by a large, tall, willowy, seven foot six inch, handsome alien humanoid with blond hair cut short. His eyes were a deep, sparkling emerald green, and his name was Sylvan Aspidistra.

“Here we are on the verge of an undertaking so big and bodaciously audacious, I don't think any of us are fully aware of its importance, and our in-laws send us three more immigrants?” Billy asked in frustration.

“Calm down, Kemosabe. They's usually a method in them big giant master's madness. Be gracious and understanding. Take it in stride with your usual charming unflappable cowboy aplomb,” Nick urged his master.

“Was that cowboy hyperbole, Tonto?” Billy asked and grinned.

“H'it weren't intended to be, but in a pinch, I suppose it might be considered border-line,” Nick said and smiled.

“So what you's really trying to say is, don't stick my thumb up my ass, 'cause I just might pull out aplomb – a cross between a plum and a bomb, or a stink-bomb made up of plums?” Billy asked.

“Exactly, Kemosabe. There's no refuting cowboy logic like that. I knew you'd see right through my poor attempt at word play,” Nick said and laughed.

“Well, you're excused this time, Tonto,” Billy said and threw his arm around Nick's shoulder, and pulled him close, “C'moan, let's us mosey on down to the dungeon to meet and greet our new family members. Too bad we ain't got us no plums to give 'em to welcome them. It's always considered thoughtful to be concerned about their regularity; unfortunately, they done plumb caught us off guard and we's fresh out of plums,” he added.

“Are you through plumbing your depths of cowboy nonsense, Kemosabe?” Nick asked drolly.

“I think so. My weakness for verbal diarrhea seems to be somewhat abated,” Billy replied.

“Good, but it ain't completely cured? Right?” Nick asked with concern.

“No. It never is. It's an ongoing problem, Tonto. I guess I'll just have to learn to live with it,” Billy supposed.

“Such courage is such an inspiration, Kemosabe; a real comfort for us ordinary buckaroos,” Nick said.

“Thanks, Tonto, it's a great burden to bear, but if I keep trying, perhaps I can learn to overcome the urge to relieve myself in public,” Billy lamented with a deep sigh. For all their nonsense, Billy felt better about the interruption and saw the break as a diversion from getting too 'stoved-up' to think clearly. A little verbal diarrhea always seemed to clear his head and refocus his purpose.

When the men walked into the dungeon, Billy recognized the Warrior-Dwarf, Jurgen Ironmonger, and his daughter immediately. They were the two unwitting victims of the attack on Balthazar's life whose lives Billy saved in the town square on Retikki Prime. Billy never saw the taller alien before. He was not with them that fateful afternoon. The Warrior-Dwarf was dressed in a heavy-duty pair of boots what came all the way up to his crotch and were more like a pair of pants with a hole in the front for his genitals to hang through. The legging-boots and a dark-brown leather kilt to cover his private parts were held up by a wide heavy belt and a shiny buckle. He was wearing a finely tooled leather shirt with no sleeves which accentuated his huge massive arms. He grew a full auburn mustache and beard someone spent several hours combing and braiding until he looked perfect. He was an imposing piece of manhood. Warrior-Dwarfs were much larger than the average, smaller Dwarfs. Billy learned on Retikki Prime there are five general sizes of Dwarf people. The term 'Dwarf' merely applied to their body structure and not necessarily their size. The Warrior-Dwarfs were the largest at over six feet and ran down in size to three feet. The two largest sizes were generally about the same size as cowboys on Earth. A few were even larger, but no matter the size they all inherited dwarf features and hyper-masculine physiques. Jurgen Ironmonger was a stunningly handsome large Dwarf.

The good looking Dwarf strolled up to Billy with a smile on his face with a masculine, sure-of-himself swagger what would put any proud cowboy to shame. He threw his arms around Billy. The big cowboy grinned and did the same. Jurgen looked into Billy's eyes like he was looking for something. When the Dwarf was satisfied he found it, he grinned and spoke, “I never got to thank you properly, Warrior to Master, for saving my daughter's and my life, Master Billy. We were taken away and cared for. You and your men's attention was pulled away by throngs of adoring fans. The next day, we couldn't get near you, but we enjoyed your concert. I'd like to thank you, sir, for what you done for me and my daughter,” Jurgen said and before Billy could begin his golly-gee-whiz-h'it-t'werent-really-nothing-routine he found himself in a lip lock with the Warrior-Dwarf what curled his toenails inside his buckaroo boots.

Billy let the man give and take as much as he wanted. The cowboy certainly wasn't in any hurry to call a halt to their exchange. It soon became obvious to both men, they found each other arousing and much to their mutual appreciation. Jurgen broke it off, but continued to hold Billy close. Billy could feel Jurgen's large cock pressing insinuatingly against his thighs. “Thank you, Master Billy. Forgive my boldness, but I gambled you might understand,” he said.

“And you won the wager, Warrior Ironmonger. I do understand. You're certainly welcome. The hard-felt admiration of your warrior-hood, and your honest, grateful affection is greatly appreciated, sir. Welcome to the Daniels family, sir. I hope you and your family find a peaceful and interesting home here among us,” Billy welcomed him.

“I have no doubt we will, and I'm even more certain you will find us a boon to your family, sir. Come, Felicity!” he spoke to his daughter. The beautiful young lady dwarf came to her father's side and wasn't as frightened of Billy as she was the afternoon he healed her. Since that time she had many opportunities to watch episodes of 'The Daniels Family' on the planetary video service. She felt like she knew Master Billy, and came to idolize him. Felicity curtsied for him, and offered her hand. Billy took it, bowed deeply to her, bent over and gently kissed the back of her smaller hand.

Felicity was in awe and laughed. “You're such a gentleman, Master Billy. I knew you would be. Thank you sir for saving me and my dad's lives. I felt like a fool that day. I let you get away without telling you how grateful I was and how wonderful you were to me. It all happened so fast, but all I could think about was how you took my pain away and healed me and my father. Please forgive me for being such an empty-headed young girl, sir,” Felicity said.

“You are nothing of the sort, Young Lady! You're well spoken, pretty, and you're welcome there. We're glad to have you good people join us,” Billy said.

Finally, Jurgen and his daughter, Felicity, introduced the the tall, giant humanoid to Master Billy as their family guardian and caretaker, Mr. Sylvan Aspidistra. Jurgen took great pride in telling Billy, Mr. Aspidistra, was one of the last of his race. He lived with, and protected the Ironmonger family, and in cases of bad times occasionally supported members of the family who needed a helping hand. He was not a slave, but he was considered a servant in the employ of the Ironmonger family for over two dozen generations. He was afraid, unless Jurgen sired a son by another wife, he would have to find another position. After Jurgen's wife died in childbirth, the handsome Warrior-Dwarf threw himself into his work to provide for and raise his daughter. He never expressed interest in another woman.

Sylvan was wearing a floor length Arabian style Caftan with long sleeves and buttoned to the neck made from the softest suede leather of a light beige color. Beneath the caftan Billy could see he wore a similar pair of heavy boots which came up to his thighs and surrounded his waist. The tall man was noticeably fey or effeminate in his movement, but not in a flamboyant manner; more in the way a male ballet dancer floats through his world. His stately deportment and deep bass voice commanded respect, and he would not suffer fools readily who chose to insinuate he might be different from other humanoids. Of course he was different. He was a completely separate species who evolved on a planet in another solar system. Anyone, with half a brain, could tell after talking with the big man for more than a few minutes, his demeanor of aristocratic mien was no affectation. His complete personality was resting comfortably on a foundation of rock-solid self-assurance. His composure would rattle Mr. Spock's nerves. He reminded Billy of 'Lurch' from the Addams Family.

Jurgen Ironmonger was exactly the opposite. He was two-hundred and thirty-eight pounds of well packed, enormously well defined, male flesh. He worked hard at any undertaking and it showed. He was a studly, hyper-masculine Warrior-Dwarf at six feet in his heavy boots he made by hand to give himself a lift in both the soles and heels. At least a pound and a half of his heft rested comfortably between his massive thighs – most of the time. His young daughter, Felicity, whom he often referred to as, Felix, when she became stubborn, petulant, or obstinate was intelligent and a budding beauty. They were perfect names for her dual nature of being soft and feminine, but on the other hand, she could sometimes be a strong willed tomboy, becoming bossy and demanding.

“I hope you good folks will forgive us if our hospitality is somewhat lacking. You've caught us at a moment when we are in the process of planning one of our most bold and possibly dangerous missions my family may every face. We ask for you to bear with us, and don't feel disappointed if we immediately absorb you into our greater family and leave the getting to know each other to be a work-in-progress, until we can have more time to sit down and more readily devote time getting to know each other better,” Billy said.

“No problem, Master Billy. We understood before we came it would be this way. Actually, we were sent to help you. Master Ironmonger and myself will accompany you on your journey. We have talents you will need. While Master Ironmonger makes his living from metal working and leather crafting, he is also an expert swordsman, and a well-trained warrior. I could sing heroic songs for several hours about his bravery and cunning as a warrior, but being a modest man, I would only embarrass him. I, on the other hand, am aware I don't look much like a warrior, but I have my on powers which may come in handy during an assault. For most of my life, I have made a peaceful living by the more arcane healing practice of using herbs and potions to cure and heal everything from rheumatism to a broken heart. I am well versed in arcane, archaic, potions for love and sleeping. I am an expert at helping to heal most known poisons throughout several galaxies. Of the several carry-alls we brought, two are nothing but herbs and fetishes for potions. It is my hope to become a practitioner here on Earth, if it is allowed,” Sylvan said.

“Before we go any further, Master Billy, I have a humble present I made for you,” Jurgen said. The dwarf walked over to one of the gurneys and took down what looked like a medium size leather suitcase. He carried it back over to Billy resting it in his arms like it was a sacred palanquin he was bringing to his Messiah. He sat the case at Billy's feet and moved back.

“What's this?” Billy said absentmindedly.

“I think this is where you open the case to view the contents of the man's gift, Son,” Nick said quietly.

“My apologies, Master Ironmonger. For a moment, I thought the ornate, intricately carved case was your present, sir. It is a stunning work of art in itself. I was merely trying to think what its purpose might be,” Billy explained while choking down a goodly slice of humble-pie. He quickly undid the two buckles and slowly opened the handsome case. Inside was the most handsome, handmade pair of buckaroo boots Billy ever saw. It suddenly struck the young cowboy, having another incredibly masculine man design and make a pair of boots for him with his own hands was a highly erotic symbol of the dwarf warrior's passion and respect for Billy. Some cowboys look upon wearing a fine pair of boots as a powerfully sensual experience. Billy was stunned and blushed a deep red color.

“Hosanna!” Billy exclaimed quietly as he took one of the boots and cradled it in his arms like he was holding a holy child about to bring it to his breast to suckle. He carefully examined it and was struck by the intricately beautiful and accurate carvings on the boot. On the outside edge was an imposing rattlesnake coiled with his mouth open ready to strike and on the inside edge was a roadrunner standing under a saguaro cactus. Billy noticed they were taller boots than you could buy in the store and began to flair just above the ankle until the were much larger at the top than a usual cowboy boot. Travis Houston Redbone introduced Billy's granddad to a private boot maker who made boots for wealthy ranchers who wanted something a bit different from the usual. Travis like to put his pants down inside his boots as a societal comment he owned a lot of cattle. He had his boots especially made to flair at the tops rather than the the usual stovepipe tops of the regular buckaroo boots. Daws Butler Daniels adopted his friend's style. Billy kept several pair of his granddad's boot hidden away.

“I'm amazed. Very few times in my life have I been speechless, but I find my brain struggling for words. I've never seen such a beautiful pair of boots in my life. Thank you, Master Ironmonger, your gift has pleased me very much, sir,” Billy said sincerely.

“May you enjoy them and wear them in good health, Master Billy,” Jurgen said smiling from ear to ear at Billy's response. “They have been blessed with secret potions for keenness of mind, braveness of heart, strength of purpose, and they are protected by a dwarf-warrior's love. The leather has been cured with my own ejaculate to protect you from harm, sir,” Jurgen said. Several of the men chuckled.

“Jesus! I don't know whether to wear them or eat them,” Billy said and everyone laughed, “I think I'll change rye-cheer and wear this handsome pair into supper this e'nin,” Billy said. He considered cowboy speak was certainly in order for the moment. One of Billy's grooms was right there to help him off with his others and held the new pair for him to put on. Billy was impressed the boots were made in such a manner, they seemed to invite him to wear his Wranglers inside, and his feet sunk into them easier than Cinderella's glass slipper marked her as the princess from the ball. They were tall boots and came all the way to the knees with a pronounced 'V' cut out of the front and less in the rear for comfortable walking. Billy thanked his groom for his assistance and asked him to take his old pair off to his and Captain Nick's apartment in the castle. Billy stood and stomped around to get the feel of his new boots and a big grin crossed his face as his posse applauded his appearance and Jurgen's craftsmanship. Billy walked over to the big antique full-length mirror in the dungeon and got a good look at himself. “If I only had a mask, I really would look like the Lone Ranger,” Billy said and got another laugh from the gathered crowd, “I'm happy with ma' pa's cognomen of 'Kemosabe,'” he added.

Billy walked over to the small family and took Jurgen into his arms again and gave him another big hug and a couple of goodly pats on his massive back. “Fine work, Master Ironmonger. Your new master is very pleased, sir. Welcome to our family,” Billy said from the bottom of his heart. The two men sealed their troth to each other with another outstanding passionate kiss, but this time, Billy took the lead and didn't stop until he felt Jurgen's strong body complete its last orgasmic spasm from a heavy ejaculation. Billy held his dwarf tight throughout his climax. Even then, Billy held the fine looking man petting him, soothing him, speaking softly like a turtle dove calling its mate and stealing kisses as Jurgen Ironmonger recovered from the small-death of an intense sexual release

“Hosanna!” Captain Nick said softly and the rest responded, “Hosanna, in the highest!” like the soft 'Amen' to a whispered prayer.

“We must get you and your family settled-in for the evening. We can put you and your giant friend in the giant's wing here in the castle. There's another complete set of apartments across from theirs, but perhaps your daughter might like to stay with the women folks at the big house until we can decide on more permanent living arrangements. The giants are used to running around the castle with little or no clothing,” Billy said almost musing to himself. Several of his family laughed at him. He looked puzzled.

“Remember, Kemosabe, they come from a planet where nudity is the norm and clothing in private is optional,” Captain Nick reminded him.

“I was thinking about the tubs, Tonto,” Billy said grasping for straws.

“You have no problem with Roxanne accompanying Elmer. No one says a word about Little Willie Whistle-Pie, or Buck, Zeus, Erin, big Blue Willie, and now Wilbur who sometimes comes to the tubs with their genitals morphed,” Nick checked him, “You're employing a false equivalence because they started out as males, but you've accepted their freedom to express themselves as they please for their husband's comfort. Perhaps we could get a strap-on dildo for Felicity if it would make you feel more comfortable, Kemosabe,” Nick said and smiled wickedly. Everyone laughed. Young Felicity laughed, too. She thought the idea was hilarious.

“No! You're right, Tonto. I hate it when you're right, but that's the way we learn to accept change from our outdated mores. It's just in my overprotective mind, she seems so young to be around a bunch of randy ranchers and cowboys in the buff,” Billy was determined to ride the dying nag to its grave.

“What about our growing number of prepubescent buckaroos? We think nothing of having them join us until their bedtime. Tom McMartin has set himself up as the Sheriff of Nod County rounding up them dogies to herd 'em off to bed only to keep them from hearing the dirty-bits us lecherous and depraved older men talk about when they ain't here jus' so's we can get our jollies,” Nick said and everyone laughed harder.

“There ain't no such thing and you know it, Tonto,” Billy said.

“And neither is there any such thing in your mind. They're simply 'what if' scenarios which, for the most part, don't relate to reality. It should be left up to Felicity's family and Felicity herself whether she would feel comfortable in such a social setting,” Nick said like a great judge making a well-reasoned decree from the bench.

“So let it be done!” Billy said and laughed, “It don't have to be settled this evening anyway. We got lots of other things to get done,” he added, and that was the last chapter of the pilgrim's progress for the moment.

Billy and his posse took them and their belonging to a three bedroom suite in the main tower of the castle across from the giant's apartments, and they fell in love with the place. It boasted most of the modern conveniences found in upscale apartments in the larger US cities with the natural charm of living in a castle. The three new immigrants found it much to their liking and Felicity in particular. There was a balcony off her room which looked out over the small village and into the dark woods beyond. Billy and his posse said their goodbyes and told them one of the giants would collect them to bring them down to the great dining hall for supper. He would see them then. Everyone going on their mission would be joining the family for supper. Billy left his two grooms to help them get settled and show them around the place.

The more Billy wore his new boots, the better he liked them. He never owned such a comfortable pair, but right in the middle of each boot, it felt like he had a broom-handle point stuck into his arch. It was somewhat uncomfortable at first, but after several hours, it began to subside, and he didn't notice it as much. As a matter of fact, his feet were beginning to feel pretty damn good. He decided to have a chat with Jurgen about it over supper. Also, his feet didn't seem to be as tired as they usually were late in the afternoon when he and Nick did a lot of walking. Everywhere they went, Billy got compliments on his new boots. His grandmother swore they looked exactly like the pairs of boots his granddad and Travis Houston Redbone came back wearing from their only trip to Retikki Prime to visit Billy one time when he was given his final eviction papers to vacate Boomer's pouch. Still, for sometime after the wee bairn's formal eviction, Billy would sleep as close to Boomer's pouch as he could get.

Supper in the great hall was like homecoming at Hogwarts. With all the players going on the mission and a couple of other family members, including the ladies of the big house, there was well over a hundred people for supper that evening. It was a lot of extra work for the staff; however, they were paid handsomely, and it meant bringing in extra help. Relatives and friends came to help to earn a little extra money for their families. Since the ship crash landed on Earth, the village people and crew never had it so good. Master Billy was most generous with them and any dispute was usually resolved in favor of the workers.

The newcomers hoped they found a home and Captain Nick would allow them to settle down for a while. Billy asked Jurgen about the anomaly of the sharp pointed feeling when he first began to wear his new boots. He went on to explain, since that time, he got used to it, and now they seemed quite comfortable; probably the most comfortable pair of boots he ever owned.

“I get that a lot when someone new to my work wears a pair of my boots for the first time and thinks there is a flaw in construction. I always tell them to wear them for one day and see if the problem persists for the second day. In all my years of boot-making, I've never had anyone come back to me after the second day. I did an exhaustive study of the humanoid foot and discovered the problem most people have with tired feet is not wearing a properly made pair of boots. I purposely position a portion of the arch higher in every boot and give them an extra added tilt by slightly raising the heel to give it far more than just a flat surface you get in mass produced boots and even handmade boots if the maker don't know the secret. It is the sharp point you feel at first, but the sensation quickly goes away. If you wear my boots for another day, I swear to you, Master Billy, you will never want to wear another pair of boots unless I make them for you,” Jurgen Ironmonger said proudly.

“At this point, I have no reason to doubt you, Master Ironmonger. My feet never felt better and less tired after a full day walking around the ranch. I'm looking forward to wearing them again tomorrow,” Billy said.

Talk was lively around the table, and the family wanted to know more about the new arrivals. For a while, they became the center of attention. Billy forbid any talk about the mission, even though Beauford promised the dining hall would be off-limits for the vid-cams. After supper, they went through a gate to the hangar bay and Billy gave a brief talk about how many people were going with them on the mission, and announced he would be recruiting another fifty-one in the morning from his Irin cowboys who previously had military training on Fort Adam Lear. The meeting didn't take long and the family went their way. Billy didn't mention the baths that evening. He wanted everyone to get a good night's sleep because the following day would probably be one of the longest, most exhaustive days of their lives. He suggested, if his family didn't have anything to do from noon to late afternoon the following evening, they should lie down and try to get some rest before supper. Then, perhaps, they would be fresh and stronger for the trip.

* * * * * * *
The next morning there were several boxes of Hosanna Cakes left on the table in the line cabin with a simple note: “The hearts and minds of many galaxies will be with you today. May our love and best wishes surround and protect you.” It was signed: “Your other family.”

<< Good morning, Sunshine, >> Billy responded to a familiar tickle.

<< I was worried you might not be awake. We're ready, big Brother, >> Randy sent.

<< It's still early, Cowboy. The sun ain't even up yet. We's just get'n our act together. You and Mr. Snoddy gate to the line-cabin. Our other family done sent us a special delivery of some fresh Hosanna Cakes. You men can enjoy one wiff' some coffee while we get ready, then we'll gate to the big house together, >> Billy sent.

<< Great! I could shore' 'nuff use me a nice sweet treat this morning with a cup of Daniels ranch cowboy mud topped off wiff' some sweet watcher's cream. Maybe it will cause hair to grow on ma' body, >> Randy allowed.

<< Don't rush it, Little Brother. I know it might seem like empty words coming from yore' big brother who has everything from exceptionally good looks, above average intelligence, knows a few neat cowboy skills, but is still a humble, charming, kick-ass buckaroo wiff' a brand new pair of boots what will make yore' mouth water, but hear me out; kick-back and enjoy your youth! Once you hit pooh-bear-tea, you cain't never get chore' sense of wonder back again, and you got lots of living to do afore Mother Nature decides to drop your voice an octave, and then she causes a couple of other important things to drop as well, >> Billy replied.

<< If I live to survive your bullshit, I'll consider myself lucky,” Randy sent, “See you soon, Brother, >> he added.

<< I love you, too, Bossman! Over and out! >> Billy signed off and laughed.

There was a flash, and a gate sprang up. Randy and his new foreman, Mr. Snoddy, walked through the gate. Billy just pulled his new boots on as Randy ran to him and jumped into his big brother's arms. The force of Randy's jump knocked Billy back onto the bed, and the young buckaroo landed on top of his master, “Oooff!” Billy exclaimed, “If I can live though a morning attack from my little brother, I know I got a fight'n chance against them demons from Hell,” he said.

He tickled Randy, and they rolled together on the bed in gales of laughter. Ram was grinning from ear to ear as he took Nick's hand and shook it. “Good morning, Mr. Snoddy,” Nick greeted him.

“Good morning to you, Captain Nick, but you don't have to call me Mr. Snoddy, sir,” Ram said.

“The Hell I don't! I love my balls too much, Son,” Nick said grabbing his own crotch, “One thing I took to learn when we crash landed in Texas is the 'Cowboy-Way,' and it says clear as day you always show respect to the Bossman on a ranch and his Foreman,” he added.

“You must a' been reading the book of 'Wranglers' attributed to one R. Rutherford, the younger, sir, what clearly states any cowboy what fails to show his Foreman the proper respect shall be immediately de-horned,” Ram replied and got Nick laughing.

“I done memorized scripture and verse, Son, and although they's some controversy about the exact mean'n of the word 'de-horned,' it's strong enough language I don't care to go agin' it,” Nick said, and they shared a laugh. “Here, Son, grab yore'self a cup of coffee and one a them Hosanna Cakes. Our 'other-family,' them buckaroo brothers from outer-space done left them for us last night. It was mighty nice of them,” Nick explained, “and greatly appreciated,” he added just in case they were tuned in or listening.

With the looming thought of venturing into the unknown, Randy was a joy; a ray of sunshine in everyone's morning. Boomer came ambling in followed by the still sleepy-eyed twins, and they suffered a wide-awake rambunctious young buckaroo attack. They went along with Randy's hugs and kisses.

Billy stood and stomped around in his new boots like he was looking for something. He leaned his right boot to the side to get a good look at it; then, he stood on his left foot, raised the right boot to get a look at the taller-than-usual slightly under-slung boot heel, and rapped his knuckles on the bottom. It gave a good sturdy report.

“Was Jurgen right, Son?” Nick asked.

“Damn straight, he was!” Billy exclaimed, “It's like they's making a little early morning love to my tired old feet,” Billy declared.

“Wow, what a handsome pair of boots, Big Brother. Them ain't no store bought boots neither,” Randy said, “Now you look like a real rancher wiff' his pants shoved down inside his boots. It's a good look for you. Makes you look like a real Kemosabe,” Randy allowed.

When everyone was ready the cowboys gated to the big house for breakfast. They were still early enough they pitched in to get things ready. Hank and Buck were already making coffee and smiled when they saw Billy, Nick, and Boomer carrying Hosanna Cake boxes. They shared with everyone. Talk around the table was general. Tom McMartin was already in the kitchen with a small knife pealing potatoes. He stopped long enough to greet everyone, shake Mr. Snoddy's hand, and give Randy a big hug and a well-deserved kiss. The ladies came in and breakfast was fully underway. They greeted everyone and made a special point to give Ram a hug and a kiss on his cheek to congratulate him on becoming Foreman of the Rutherford ranch.

Billy talked about what he wanted Mr. Snoddy and his Bossman to do for him in generalities with little mention of the mission. “I sent out a call for volunteers for a secret mission to all the ranches where we got our cowboys stationed and working. We didn't try to whitewash the danger or the chances there might be casualties. Out of the five hundred cow-persons we got from the Irin, about three hundred were male and two hundred were female. I stressed, I only wanted males for the mission because of the extreme danger of the operation, but not wanting to be accused of being sexist, I would consider a cowgirl what might bring some special talent to the fifty you are to choose,” Billy told Ram and Randy.

He continued, “We got back damn near four hun'nert requests to go wiff' us. Before we send out final interview invitations, we done like you men asked and got them to submit a piece of paper telling us why they wanted to go along. They were assigned a corresponding number to their name. Since I opened it to a few of the ladies, each one was required to put an “M” or “F” after their number. We need you to narrow the number down to one hundred, and we'll send for them. You men think you can handle a hundred this morning?” Billy asked.

“We can tell from their paper most everything we need to know about them. We only need to observed their aura for a few minutes with a couple of questions. H'it don't really matter much what the questions are about. We ain't interested in the answers anyway unless they's just off-the-wall loonies. I doubt we'll have any problems with the Irin folk. We're mostly interested in watching their aura. We'll know all about them in five minutes, make notes, and arrange them in order. The top fifty will be the chosen ones. Did I mishear or did you say you need fifty-one?” Ram asked.

“No, not anymore. Our Bossman done told me you wouldn't let his uncle go on the mission unless you're allowed to go along to look after him,” Billy said and smiled.

“It is my job, Master Billy,” Ram said quietly trying not to be disrespectful.

“I agree with you, Mr. Snoddy. It's the right thing to do. It's the Cowboy Way,” Billy said and smiled. They shook hands, “You make an even one-hundred family members to make the trip,” Billy confirmed. Randy smiled, took Ram's hand and gently squeezed it. Ram sat a little taller in his chair.

* * * * * * *
Billy was impressed by his staff's organizational abilities. He was even more impressed by the speed Ram and Randy went through the preliminary sheets of paper each person submitted. They were through in an hour and would have been through sooner if they didn't have a bit of a problem with a couple. Billy had to admire Ram's patience with his young and sometimes petulant Bossman. He was the perfect diplomat while bringing Randy around to his way of thinking without any hurt feelings or ruffled feathers. There were no women chosen from the Irin slaves. When they were finished, they sent word to those on other ranches and Billy's staff gathered them. There were six from the handful of un-morphed guard-cattle, naked as the day they were born. It didn't bother anyone, and the interviews began.

Billy, Tom, Nick, and several other close family members marveled at the speed and cunning Randy and Ram exhibited in the interviews. Once in a while, Randy would ask some nonsensical question, and the man being interviewed would almost swallow his tongue he was so unprepared. The ones what had a quick comeback, even if it was more off-the-wall, got extra points for thinking on his feet. If his answer was funny, and blew them out of the water, he got many extra points. Billy began to see the method in their madness, and Tom saw it, too. It was a simple but effective means by which they could determine a man's ability to think on his feet. They laughed and slapped each other on the back at Ram and Randy's methods.

Four of the six naked cowboys were picked. The other two were picked, but Randy and Ram picked the head bulls, Yates and Dunn, and the other two chosen were Bloomfield and Raskin, their seconds in charge. Billy apologize, but he wanted them to stay to guard the front gate. They were disappointed but knew they had an important job to do. They walked away looking like they came so close only to become complete failures. It was obvious to everyone they were hurt, disappointed, and looked terribly dejected.

“Wait a minute! Wait a minute! Stop! This ain't right!" Billy exclaimed, "You two bulls! Bloomfield and Raskin! How many guard cattle you got left down to the front gate?” Billy yelled after them.

“Thirty-two, including us, Master Billy,” Raskin replied.

“You got another couple of bulls you can trust to fill in for tonight?” Billy asked.

“Yes, sir, Faraday and Kepler,” Raskin replied.

“Hell, if we can't trust two bulls with them names for one night, we ain't got no business going on this trip in the first place,” Billy said firmly and got a laugh from everyone.

“You men clean up and get ready with them other bulls. We'll just take two more along,” Billy said and everyone cheered for Raskin and Bloomfield.

And it was done. Billy closed the door on the number of his group who would be accompanying him to Mount Ararat later that evening – or, at least he thought he did. After the naked Irin cowboys got cleaned up and were outfitted with comfortable clothes, Billy and his family went to the great hall for lunch. It was discussed, and Billy agreed with his staff the big meal for the day should be the noon meal and their supper would be a spare one so their systems wouldn't be overloaded. Everyone in Billy's family gated or transported to Captain Nick's ship for lunch, but only the hundred and fifty-two people would be present at the last supper before launching the ships. One hundred and fifty-one males and one small female – Edith. She and Archie would have it no other way. They were a team.

After lunch was over, Randy said his tearful 'goodbye' to his Uncle Billy Bob Bane, hugs and handshakes for his new foreman, Ramson Snoddy, his big brother, and the rest of the Daniels family to gate back to his ranch. They had some time before lunch to explain to Billy Bob why Randy decided to make Mr. Snoddy Foreman of the Rutherford ranch. His uncle took the news like a condemned prisoner what just heard from the executioner, the governor called and granted him a reprieve. He didn't express his relief, but it was more than a little obvious to those in the know. Billy winked at Randy as if to say, “See, I told you so!” and Randy grinned back with his “You's so full of shit!” look, they fell together laughing; glad the situation was resolved to everyone's satisfaction.

Billy Bob wasn't naïve. He knew something was up when he overheard several men congratulating Ram and calling him, Mr. Snoddy. When Randy went through his explanation it was almost a strain for Billy Bob. Not because he didn't get the top job on the ranch, but because it brought undue attention to himself when he was still desperately trying to adjust to living among people again. It was just the kind of situation which made him nervous and uncomfortable. It made his flesh crawl, he wanted to throw off his clothes, and start running again; but, he didn't. Not unexpectedly by a few, Billy Bob Bane welcomed the news. It was actually a great relief for him, and he let out a deep sigh. The conundrum of his attraction for Mr. Snoddy removed him from the drivers seat, and he was happy to turn the wheel over to his new foreman while still retaining some pride in becoming the top hand or Ramrod for the Rutherford ranch.

Randy kept referring to Ram as 'Mr. Snoddy' and told his uncle, since he would become the ranch's Ramrod, he would be expected to show the Foreman of the ranch respect by always referring to him as 'Mr. Snoddy' in public. “Whatever, you men decide to do in private, is your own business,” Randy finished, grinned, and winked at his big brother. It wasn't missed by either Ram or Billy Bob, and they blushed in unison on the downbeat.

As Randy made the rounds to say 'goodbye' he got his big brother off to the side for a few words, “You plan to gift ma' Foreman with the app to remove the 'Jungle Gym' my uncle talked you into permanently installing to keep my grubby little hands off his male bits, Brother?” Randy asked with a wicked grin.

“You done figured it out,” Billy said and grinned.

“I can't blame ma' Uncle. I blame the world we live in,” Randy said.

“You's absolutely right, Cowboy. I promise, I will take care of Mr. Snoddy as soon as you leave and give him the keys to his new grazing pasture. He might wanna' break in his new ramrod this afternoon. As hungry as them two look at each other, I'd say it will be a pretty even race to the bed. I'll have one of our new apprentice grooms stand-by just in case,” Billy promised, and they shared a laugh.

“Come back to me, Kemosabe,” Randy whispered and gently kissed Billy on his cheek.

“I'll tickle you the minute we leave the mountain, Little Bro. I got to come back. We got us too much living to do. You know I wouldn't miss your burf-day for no amount of Angels or Demons,” Billy said, and they hugged one last time. Randy walked through the gate, and it vanished behind him.

Billy walked over to one of his favorite new grooms in the castle, Thular Rhymer, and talked with him quietly. Billy called to Billy Bob Bane and asked him to join him and his groom. Billy introduced the men, and they shook hands. “Ramrod Bane, Mr. Rhymer will take you to his special room in the castle to groom you for this afternoon. When he's through with you, he'll come get me, and I'll come check his work. Wait there for us and we will give you further instructions,” Billy said like it wasn't an invitation. It was an order.

“As you wish, Master Billy,” Billy Bob said and followed the handsome young halfling to his assigned grooming room in the tower.

“Foreman Snoddy, you're wiff' me and ma pa for a while this afternoon. My punishment slaves, you're wiff' me,” Billy commanded, and the men followed him down into the dungeon. When they got there, Billy casually instructed Mr. Snoddy and his slaves to strip naked. Not a one asked why. The three slaves saw to Mr. Snoddy, helped him off with his boots, the rest of his clothes, and then helped each other undress. Billy patted the big black leather covered table and smiled at Ram. The foreman jumped upon the bench and lay down on his back. Billy and Nick winged up and stood on either side of Ram. Billy looked down at Ram's ample set of male tackle, looked up and caught Nick grinning at him.

“Jesus, Mr. Snoddy, you done got enough meat between yore' legs to feed a starving halfling family for a month and keep them sated and sassy,” Billy said and the other men laughed at Billy's cowboy hyperbole. Howsomever, it's the law over to the Rutherford spread, the Foreman must have the biggest cock on the ranch. Ma' pa done told me them words is direct from the revered book of “Wranglers” by R. Rutherford, the younger, in the holy writ about the Cowboy Way, and I ain't one to go agin scripture. If R. Rutherford wrote it, I believe it, end of conversation!” Billy said emphatically.

“When we restored Randy's uncle for the job of Foreman, we done give ole' Billy Bob enough to make a mature stallion's head go dizzy when he got an erection. Things didn't turn out the way we thought it might, so now you's the new Foreman, you gotta' have the biggest cock on the ranch. I'm gonna' make your cock a full inch and a half longer and considerably larger than your Ramrods; maybe even beef up yore' balls a mite so's he can really feel 'em slamming hard against his butt when you's sit'n tall in his saddle ride'n the high country,” Billy declared like there would be no argument; after all, the law was the law.

“Hosanna! There is a god!” Ramson Snoddy said softly as a wicked smile came across his face. The other men were trying hard to keep their composure, but when Captain Nick broke up, the three punishment slaves did too.

“He'ar! You men show some respect! This is serious business,” Billy said sharply, but it only made them laugh harder at his nonsense. “Don't pay them no never-mind, Mr. Snoddy. Good slaves is hard to come by these days, sir,” Billy said and laughed himself, “While I'm fixing up your special deluxe foreman's package, I'll also give you the application to remove my slave's rings so's you don't have to fight his Jungle-gym. 'At's what the Bossman calls his uncle's body jewelry,” Billy said and giggled. He got everyone laughing at Randy's words.

Billy and Nick went to work and in little more than twenty minutes they were finished. The three punishment slaves were in awe of the results. “When, and if, I ever get to be a freeman again, can I come work for you, Mr. Snoddy,” Harley-Buck asked, and everyone laughed.

“Me, too, Mr. Snoddy! I'd shore as Hell be proud to play second fiddle to my big-horned-brother if'n he didn't satisfy you, sir! You know us cowboys. A good Foreman cain't fuck just one. He's gotta' have dessert!” Earl declared to everyone's surprise.

“I won't never be a freeman again, but I'd be downright pleased if my master saw fit to loan me out to you for an e'nin – a weekend – or a month, when your Ramrod might be away and you need a surrogate port to dock that fine cock a' yorn, sir. I been trained up real good, and I been told by my other young master, I give a pert-damn good fuck, sir,” Orville bragged.

It was just what Ramson Snoddy needed to hear. It boosted his morale to new heights, and he was ready to break his Ramrod to his saddle.

“Here! You slaves line up in front of Mr. Snoddy – assholes to bellybuttons. I'm gonna' use you to show him how to remove his ramrod's Jungle-gym,” Billy said and they laughed as they got in line behind Earl Hickson. Billy got into Ram's head and only had to show him once how to remove their permanently attached cock-rings and return them. After several turns, Ram was convinced, he wouldn't have a problem removing Billy Bob Bane's cock ring.

“Now, I'm gonna' give you men a consideration. I can remove your jewelry for our trip to the badlands or you can wear it if you want. I'm giving you the choice. Of course, if you choose to go without, it will be returned when we return,” Billy said.

The three slaves looked at each other. “Don't think I'd be comfortable without mine, Master Billy, but thanks for the consideration,” Earl said.

“Me neither, sir,” Orville said.

“Nor me, sir. Can I wear my horns?” Harley-Buck asked.

“You can wear your horns, Cowboy,” Billy said and everyone laughed.

Billy sent Ram to his room in the giant's wing of the castle he shared with Randy and his Uncle the previous weekend. He told Ram he would send his Ramrod to him in a while. He wanted a chance to talk with Billy Bob in private for a few minutes. Billy said he would leave it up to them what they decided to do with each other; however, he expected them to get a little rest before five o'clock in the afternoon. He wanted everyone going with him to meet in the dungeon to have an audience with the two great Shedu's, then go together to the dining hall for a light supper before boarding the scout-ships. Ram promised him they would get some rest and be there on time.

Billy thanked his punishment slaves and gave them the same advice. Go hit their bunks and take a good nap, but be sure somebody woke them to come to the dungeon by five. He knew their grooms were pretty good to make sure they were where they were suppose to be on time. Billy and Nick walked up the stairs to the floor where the grooming rooms were and knocked on the door to Thular Rhymer's room. Thular came to the door to greet them and invited them in.

“We're through, Master Billy. Ramrod Bane is clean as a whistle, and drank several mugs of herb spiced Texas tea. He's quite mellow, relaxed, and as lovable as a big bear what found his favorite camphor tree,” Thular said.

“Good. Glad to hear it. I just came to make sure he knows about some of his special talents to make his time with his Foreman an enjoyable one for both. I ain't had time to go over some of his physical apps with him I give him when I gave him the whole package and made him into a Cowboy-Angel. It shouldn't take too long. If you're finished, you don't have to stay,” Billy said.

“Thanks, Master Billy, I could be a big help to the kitchen staff. Another hand for such a busy time is always welcome,” Thular said. He walked over to Billy Bob, gave him a hug and a kiss on his cheek, and told him he wished him well. Billy Bob threw his big beefy arms around the handsome halfling, stole a big, wet, sloppy buckaroo kiss and thanked him for his time and talents.

After Thular left, Billy Bob was like putty in his master's hands. His assigned groom bathed and pampered him like he never was before, to say nothing of the wonderful effect of the herbs on his mind an body. He was as mellow as the smell of smoke from a dwarf's pipe packed with cherry tobacco as he kicked back to enjoy a bowl as his last effort at the end of a perfect day. Billy ran through the list of enhanced apps with Billy Bob and despite his mellow mood he was a quick study. He showed him how he could remove his own teeth for giving his partner the best blow-job possible, and how to restore them after he finished bringing comfort to his foreman.

Billy removed his clothes, except for his new boots, and morphed into a perfect copy of Foreman Ransom Snoddy. That really made Billy Bob sit up straight. Billy winked at Nick when he told Billy Bob he was going to show him how to take his foreman just like his own pa taught him to take his big fallen-angel.

“I don't remember Mr. Snoddy being quite so big,” Billy Bob said almost with glee.

“He weren't until I made sure he's got the biggest cock on the Rutherford ranch. You got chore' Bossman to thank for this hunk of meat. He declared the foreman of his ranch must have the biggest cock of all them cowboys, and that includes his ramrod,” Billy said and grinned.

Billy Bob learned what he should know about cocksucking and pigged out on a duplicate of his new foreman's penis. He amazed himself he was easily able to take all of him without any discomfort to himself. Billy didn't let him overdo. He wanted Billy Bob to go to his foreman as a virgin. When Billy was satisfied Billy Bob could fly solo, he broke it off, morphed back to himself, and put his clothes on.

“If you and others are capable of morphing into each other, how will I be able to tell if I'm really with my Foreman, Master Billy,” he asked confused.

“Good question, but an easy one to answer. Smell. Body odor. Every man has his own unique, distinct fragrance. It depends on his metabolism, what he eats, who he's with, and if he's comfortable with his life. Once you get used to your foreman's unique smell, you won't think about it until you might find yourself with someone morphed to look like him. With your enhanced sense of smell, you will be able to tell in an instant, he may look like your Foreman, but he ain't. Always trust your animal senses. They won' t lie to you,” Billy said. Last but not least, Billy waved his hand in front of Billy Bob's cock and balls and they morphed into a nice hairless little cunt. Billy Bob wasn't too surprised because he knew other men on the ship were capable and showed him how they could change from one to the other, but having it happen to himself was something new and exotic.

“Just in case your Foreman might like something a little different, you will have the app available,” Billy explained.

“I hope he will, Master Billy. I have no problem with it,” Billy Bob said sincerely.

Billy showed him how to do it several times and was convinced he would do fine on his own. Billy Bob thanked Billy and Nick over and over and had many hugs and sloppy kisses for them. They sent him off to the arms of his foreman waiting for him in their shared apartment in the giant's quarters.

* * * * * * *
“Are you through for the day, Kemosabe? Is that it? Are you going to practice what you preach? Can we vamoose to the line-cabin, or walk upstairs to our apartment for a couple of hours down time and make a little love afore we have to take off for Turkey?” Nick asked.

“Come to think on it, them two was the last project on my list. Don't see why not, Tonto. We ain't far from our apartment. Let's go there and get comfortable,” Billy said.

“You know what must be first on your list of 'to-dos' once't we get back, don't chu'?” Nick asked.

“Gift Mr. Snoddy wiff' the complete package, Tonto?” Billy asked.

“I could look up the scripture and verse in the Buckaroo's Good Book about the Cowboy Way, if you like, Kemosabe,” Nick said and grinned.

“Naw, t'ain't necessary, Tonto. When my pa is right, he's right! Ain't no two ways about it. Howsomever, I'm pert-dang sure you'll find it in the book of 'Wranglers' by R. Rutherford, the younger,” Billy said, and they shared a laugh.

“Wudden it him what wrote about having your own planet to rule over if you're very good, but you only have to be good to people what think like you. And for their reward, they get to rule over them assholes what don't buy into their beliefs about another planet named Kohlrabi where their god lives?” Nick asked.

“No, I think you got that confused with them Marmosets and their books about Macaroni and Cheese-its,” Billy replied, and they shared a laugh at their nonsense.

* * * * * * *
Foreman Snoddy and his ramrod drank their fill of each other for a couple of hours and then slept until the giants knocked on their door. They cleaned up, and pulled on their boots, but carried their clothes in their hands. They walked out into the main living area of the giant's quarters and everyone else was naked except for their boots. They were going down to the dungeon to meet Master Billy and visit the Shedus. They didn't see any reason to dress only to undress again in the dungeon. Billy and Nick did the same.

Nick watched Billy pull on his boots. “You gonna' wear them nice new boots into the unknown, Kemosabe,” he asked.

“Damn, right! I want to be comfortable and there ain't no tell'n how long we might be on our feet. I want to wear my most comfortable pair of boots and these be them, Tonto,” Billy said.

The men from the giant's quarters met Billy and Nick in the hallway, and they walked down the back stairs together into the dungeon. Almost everyone was gathered and placed their clothes around anywhere they could find to put them. Everyone, was naked except for their boots. Psyches didn't wear any clothes. Like the watchers, they had their fur to cover themselves. Billy looked around and saw a hundred and fifty-three faces looking back at him. Every critter from Halflings, Dwarfs -- large and small, Psyches, giants, an even dozen Essengurda white skinned Warriors and twelve more blue skinned; Fallen-Angels, and Cowboy Angels; members of his close family and fifty three large beefy Irin cowboys. Billy held up his fist and shouted, “Hosanna!” and every humanoid and critter lifted their arms with a clenched fist and responded, “Hosanna, in the highest!”

Billy looked out into their faces and the feeling which came over him almost brought tears to his eyes. He started to speak, but his voice betrayed him, and he choked. Billy turned his head to the side and coughed into his fist to hide the discomfort of his strong emotions. No one was fooled by his attempt to hide his feelings. It only endeared him to them more. Billy almost prayed for a distraction, he was so embarrassed, and someone must have read his mind. A gate opened and through it walked Harlen Johnson, Jesse Jones, with Daffy and Chloe.

“Thought you was gonna' get away without us, didn't chu!” Harlen bellowed, laughing, and pointing his finger at the surprised look on Billy's face.

“Tell him the truth, Boss!” Jessie demanded.

“Them damn dogs like to done drove us crazy!” Harlen said and everyone broke up laughing.

“We just couldn't let you go alone, Master Billy. We been in contact with Guy and Willow, and they done told us ya'll were going on a secret mission. We had to come to go with you and protect you men,” Daffy said like a warrior. Guy and Willow came over and the four dogs did their greetings and sniffed each other's butts.

“It's too damn late to argue the point, Gentlemen. Git chore' clothes off, pull on your boots, we're going before them Shedus to give us their blessing, we'll go in for a light supper, board them scout-ships and be on our way,” Billy said as he shook both their hands and gave them hugs. Harlen and Jessie undressed as Billy went on with his talk. “There ain't much more to say, folks, but this is the moment we been talking about and planning for months. When we get to the stables we will all bow to our beloved Shedus, then form a great circle in front of them. Dogs, you sit by you master's side. Daffy, Chloe, by Harlen and Jessie. You men put your arms over them. Guy and Willow between me and Bubba and we'll do the same. After their blessing, we stand, bow again, and leave. We come back here, dress, and go in for supper. Any questions?” Billy asked.

“Yeah, where's the exit gate for us cowardly type?” Bubba asked holding up his hand.

“To late for that, Buckaroo! This roller-coaster done hit them cogs to take us up that big incline and drop our butts out from under us. At this point, the most we can do is bend over and kiss our asses goodbye!” Billy exclaimed and everyone laughed.

They walked slowly into the stable area, and when they were all gathered, Billy bowed deeply to the two great Shedus standing no more than about ten feet from each other. The closest anyone ever saw them before.

“Welcome, friends! Welcome, Master Billy and Captain Nick! It is a great honor to have you stand before us," Madam Spartza said.

“Thank you and Master Beauford for granting us an audience with you this afternoon. We have come to ask your blessings for our undertaking, ma'am, and sir,” Billy said formally.

“It will be our honor, Master Billy,” Madam Spartza said.

“Everyone, kneel, form a circle and hold hands. Don't break the circle until both our beloved Shedu's speak,” Billy said, and they did as he ordered. They formed a large circle. Billy and Bubba draped their arms over Guy. Billy and Nick draped their arms over Willow. Harlen and Jessie did the same with their dogs. It became very quiet.

“We thank all of you – everyone of every specie gathered here before us, united in one great cause, attempting to do something no one else has ever done. Your task will not be easy. There will be danger on your right and danger on your left; however, out of the chaos and horror you will come together as a coherent force and together you will face your task with ingenuity and bravery not seen on this planet since the days of Camelot and the great wizard Merlin. May the ancient voices be with you, but we will also be riding by your side. Go forth brave warriors, for the conquest you seek is a just and honorable one; worth far more than any hidden treasure you might imagine,” Madam Spartza said, looked over, and nodded for Beauford to speak.

“I speak to all who can hear my voice – everyone of you, without exception, have become my family. I have little more to say, but when you board the Scout-ships and the synthetic-intelligence detects an extra heartbeat, it will be mine. Go my Captain! Go my beloved Master! Go Grooms! Go everyone of you with both our blessings and come back victorious. We have decided we love you very much,” Beauford said and almost broke into tears.

“Everyone stand!” Billy said and everyone stood. Billy bowed once more and the others followed suit. “Thank you, Madam! Thank you, Sire!” Billy lifted his arm and made a fist, “Hosanna!” Billy shouted.

Everyone made a fist, raised it high above their heads and shouted, “Hosanna, in the highest!”

Billy turned to follow the men from the area. They returned to the dungeon, dressed, and went into the great dining hall for supper. Billy could swear he saw a couple of men and Angels wipe a tear away. Nick assured him he wasn't imagining it. Many were moved by the brief but impressive audience with the great Shedus.

After everyone dressed, Billy made a call for his cowboy-angels to wing-up. They did so, and when they returned, Gabriel was carrying his long silver trumpet and Billy was carry Excalibur. It never occurred to him, the Essengurda didn't know about the great sword, but Billy knew a number of his refurbished Fallen-Angels and most of his Cowboy-Angels were aware of it. When Billy came into the room with the magnificent sword, the Essengurda were stunned. Commander Hunk bellowed loudly to his men, “Kneel before the bearer of the great sword, Excalibur!” the Commander, his officers, and their men went down on one knee and bowed their heads.

Billy didn't know what made him do it, but it was like another entity took control of his mind and body. He unsheathed Excalibur and raised it high over everyone's head and it began to radiate a great sparkling light which fell on everyone, dropped off them like rain, and onto the floor. Billy moved before Commander Hunk and placed the tip of the blade on his left shoulder and then moved it over his head to his right shoulder. “By the power given to me as Master of this great weapon, and from the instructions given to me by this great and noble sword, I hereby make you and your men Knights of the inner-circle of this family who stand before you. What say you, Sir Knight, Sir Hunkagurden? Will you and your men accept my honor and pledge to defend our family?” Billy asked firmly.

“I know the hearts of my men, Master Billy. We will gladly accept your honor to become Knights of your family, Sire,” Hunk replied.

“So say you all!” Billy shouted to the rest.

“So say we all, Sire!” they said in unison.

“Rise my good Knights and embrace your Master!” Billy ordered and Hunk was the first. Billy went down the line until he embraced and kissed every Essengurda warrior on each cheek. Billy wasn't real sure what just happened but something clicked with Commander Hunk and his men. They were no longer a separate squad. They were made an important part of Master Billy's family, and they didn't take the ceremony they just went through lightly. They were giants; men of old; men of renown. They found a new home where they were welcome and pledged their lives to a new young master whom they were eager to serve. Billy gave them back their honor and their pride in themselves.

The last supper was neither one of regret nor fear. After the formal annexing of the Essengurda into Billy's family, everyone from the smallest to the largest were in perfect sync with each other and their spirits were high they were going on a daring adventure with friends who proved to them they could be trusted when the going got tough. Billy closely watched tall and stout Jurgen Ironmonger and his taller, willowy servant and marveled at how quickly and how well they integrated themselves with the rest of his family. They were accepted with open arms, and Jurgen was even more taken with his new young master's presence. He watched a young cowboy transform into a great leader, and he knew in his heart he would follow Billy anywhere for the rest of his days.

Other than the kitchen help, servers, and cleanup crew, there was no one there to say goodbye. It's the way Billy wanted it, but from the village the musicians cobbled-together a choir and sang songs of valor and heroism which came up through the open windows from the courtyard. It was a moving experience as they left the dining hall and headed for the dungeon one last time. There Captain Nick opened a gate to the Hangar-bay for the Scout-ships and they passed through. Their names were already above the gate to the ship they were to travel on. Most of Billy's family flew with him and Cloog. Others flew with Captain Nick in the lead ship.

When everyone was aboard, the gates were closed and the co-ordinates entered into the synthetic-intelligence. Captain Nick did a final check to make sure everyone was strapped in tight, and they were ready for takeoff. Seth gave the final, all clear, and the twenty, small, basket-ball size ships lifted in unison and began to slowly move through the nether dimension, passed through the walls of the ship, through the granite and rock of the cave wall, and gathered at the opening of the cave. It was still bright daylight outside, but Captain Nick assured them it would get dark quickly as they headed east. Nick gave the order to leave the cave and shouted, “Wagons, ho!” everyone laughed and one by one the twenty scout-ships left the cave and flew low across the pastures and fields of the Hill Country of West Central Texas.

Nick wanted to gain altitude while they were still in a sparsely populated area, and the other ships followed. They climbed to about twenty-five thousand feet and headed due east. At the speed they were traveling it didn't take them long to reach the eastern coast of the country, and they climbed some more to avoid any international flights. After hitting thirty-five thousand feet, Captain Nick spotted an American Airlines jumbo jet on its way to Paris, France.

“Here's you chance, Kemosabe,” he sent to Cloog's ship. Billy was sitting in the number two seat next to his beloved warrior. “Are you ready to activate your program, Son?” Nick asked.

“Sue, are you with me?” Billy asked.

“I'm here, Master Billy ready for you to give me the command,” Sue replied.

“I'm going to fly up along side and slow down. You should be able to see the people looking out at you from the windows and get their reaction,” Nick said and proceeded to take his ship as close as he could and maintain a safety level between them and the backwash of the giant plane.

“Let's do it, Sweet Sue! Activate Master Billy's 'Burma-shave' program,” Billy said.

“Done! Burma-shave is loaded and running, sir,” Sue confirmed.

Several passengers on the large Transatlantic Airliner spotted the small silver orbs flying in strict formation just a few hundred feet off the right-hand side of the plane. There was a commotion going on on-board the jet liner. Billy and his people could see the cameras come out and picture after picture was being taken. Program Burma-shave kicked in and from Captain Nick's small ship the words came out like a running billboard on Times Square in big, bright red letters much larger than the small silver orbs themselves. (Imagine the capital “O” in the following represents each of the small scout-ships as they slowly traveled by the great airliner.)

O – Burma-Shave.... O – These signs.... O – are not for laughs alone.... O – the ass they save.... O – may be your own.... O – Drop you pants, my brothers.... O – show them spooks your mother-pumper.... O – flip NSA the bird and proudly tell them.... O – to kiss your humpty-dumpter.... O – Burma-Shave.... Behind the next scout-ship was a Rainbow Flag and an emoticon of a laughing face. As the very last scout-ship passed the jumbo jet, there was a final message; an animated, grinning, tail-wagging, crocodile running along pumping his fists like he was trying to catch up with the rest of the orbs with the following caption: See ya' later alligator! When the final orb flew past the pilot's cabin of the plane, Captain Nick gave the order to return to their original speed, and they left the jumbo-jet behind in the blink of an eye. To the pilots, it was like they were there one minute, and then, vanished into thin air.

* * * * * * *
“We gonna' report that, Sam?” the co-pilot asked his captain rather nonchalantly after about fifteen minutes of contemplative silence between them.

“Mumm, what do you think, Phil?” Captain Sam asked his co-pilot adjusting his seat-belt to give himself a little more wiggle room.

“I ain't real sure what I saw, Sam. I was laughing too damn hard. I couldn't wipe the tears away fast enough, and they blurred my vision,” Phil replied.

“Same here. I ain't been that entertained since I dated that cheerleader in college,” Sam said.

“If we report it, them spooks is gonna' be all over them good folks back there to confiscate every last camera, but if we don't, we could find our asses in a sling over it,” Phil said.

“My ass in a sling...?” Sam asked musing to himself, “Humm, I always wondered what that might feel like,” Sam said, “We're both overdue for retirement, Phil. You wanna' keep on going with all the frick'n shit we got to deal with. I already made my nest egg, and I know you. You still got half the first dollar you ever made,” Sam said and grinned.

“Then you're saying we should just ignore it, and let them folks have fun with it,” Phil said thinking.

“E'aup! We can claim we never actually saw them damn things. We didn't detect any threat to the plane,” Sam said, “Unless you wanna' consider the possibility of the pilot dropping dead from laughing. Whatever or whoever they are, I don't think they mean us any harm,” he added.

“All right, Sam. Maybe we can get jobs as Walmart greeters,” Phil said and grinned.

“Oh, fuck no! We'd starve to death! Hell, we could make more money if we buy a monkey, get two tin cups, and beg on the streets,” Captain Sam allowed.

End of Chapter 75 ~ Seek Him What Made Them Seven Stars
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Mail to: Waddie Greywolf <[email protected]>
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06/12/2014
10/12/2017