7Stars

Seek Him What Made Them Seven Stars
By Waddie Greywolf

Chapter 81

"When you come before us and tell us that we shall disturb your business interests, we reply that you have disturbed our business interests by your action. We say to you that you have made too limited in its application the definition of a businessman. The man who is employed for wages is as much a businessman as his employer. The attorney in a country town is as much a businessman as the corporation counsel in a great metropolis. The merchant at the crossroads store is as much a businessman as the merchant of New York. The farmer who goes forth in the morning and toils all day, begins in the spring and toils all summer, and by the application of brain and muscle to the natural resources of this country creates wealth, is as much a businessman as the man who goes upon the Board of Trade and bets upon the price of grain. The miners who go 1,000 feet into the earth or climb 2,000 feet upon the cliffs and bring forth from their hiding places the precious metals to be poured in the channels of trade are as much businessmen as the few financial magnates who in a backroom corner the money of the world.” ~ William Jennings Bryan

By the time the men-in-black spooks were put away in the dungeon on Captain Nick's ship, and everyone was certain Wilma Jean Bettage was on her way to total recovery from her traumatic incident down by the front gate, it was time for Sunday dinner at the big house. It was another warm July afternoon, and the ladies decided to serve in the formal dining room because of the large crowd. They had plenty extra help and everything came together smoothly. You can bet the talk was lively around the table that afternoon. The ladies were wowed by the story the men and boys told them and shared their sorrow for the victim and anger toward the strangers who harmed one of their morphed slaves – and a female to boot.

“Well, obviously the ancients races of the Irin and Grigori aren't the only ones watching us, Billy,” Kate said.

“I've always thought there was more to the legends of the men-in-black than the government's easy dismissal of people's claims of visitations as overwrought imagination. How long do you think it will take to find out what they really look like?” Zelma Jane asked.

“Don't know for sure, Ms. Zelma, but according to Hank, Buck, Archie, and Edith, they ain't like us. They can't morph into anyone like we can and hold that image for long periods of time. All we need is a small taste of someone's body fluids to have their DNA on file in our system. Apparently, it takes them snakes a long slow process and unless they keep up the treatment or whatever they do to maintain a human presence, they begin to slowly morph back into their reptilian form. We don't know when it will happen, but we plan on keep'n them until we find out, then our immediate plan is to turn them over to the Sheriff, but don't hold me to that, things could change. The main difference between their shape shifting and ours is, they keep their reptilian brain in any form they take, but our morphing imitates everything about the owner of the original DNA including their brain. We just transplant the imprint of our brain on the morphed clone so's it will be us inside. We got robo-cams on them around the clock so we can compare footage from one day to the next and if need be, compile a time-lapse collection of frames to show their change. If'n it ain't been for our boys mess'n around and introducing a live rat in the dungeon we probably never would have found out what them slimy bastards eat. They wouldn't tell us, and they refuse to eat anything we place in their cells,” Billy said, “Come to find out they won't eat nothing unless it's live,” he added.

“When do you plan to turn them over to me, Son?” Will Tate asked.

“Not until they completely morph into their reptilian state, Sheriff; however, in the meantime, depending on how we want to play this, we might come up with another plan for them. I think it's time they were fully exposed. The American people have been laughed at and lied to for so many years it's disgusting. I want to assemble a video of the process from their unnecessarily aggressive behavior at the front gate, shooting one of our cows, our arresting them, incarcerating them, and discovering they ain't who or what they claimed to be. I plan to give the video to Mr. Quilty and his cameraman, Mr. Taylor, to release on their TV station as a major scoop. We don't know what reaction we'll have after our interview is broadcast tonight.

“From major news sources this morning, we scored big around the country with our streaming barnyard concert program except for the rabid right wing conservatives on Fox News, the fundamental-paleolithic Christaceans what still believe in myths and superstitions from the bronze age; likewise, Orthodox Jews, and Muslims; the Mormons and Catholics not so much. They been surprisingly quiet. Maybe they finally realized how crazy their beliefs sound to any person with a good heart who is fortified with sound reasoning abilities, and they're keeping quiet lest they draw unwanted attention and comparisons to themselves. I've giving some thought to Doug's station manager's request for a follow-up interview to broadcast tomorrow at the same time. There's been so much happen in the last twenty-four hours, I think it would be a good idea. I've decided we will take some time to have another interview, but this time it won't only be me. Part of it will be interviewing some of our more unusual family members."

“What chu' gonna' do about them thousand head of cattle them ancient folks want to send, Brother?” Bubba asked.

“Ain't got that far, Bubba. Any suggestions?” Billy shot back.

“Yeah, I can take half ub'bum over to my ranch,” Bubba replied.

“You can split 'em up, Billy. We could take fifty to a hun'nert,” Elmer said.

Over a dozen hands went up around the table of ranchers who would take and care for some of the morphed cows until spots could be found for them, and the way they and the Grange were growing as a family and getting things done at an increasingly rapid pace, they thought it wouldn't take long for them to be placed.

“I'll leave the extra five hundred in your hands Bubba, but if the others want to help, let them. As a matter of fact, since you been the unofficial go-to man for the ranchers getting started with the Grange and you're doing such a great job, why don't we make it permanent and give you a salary for your management skills?” Billy said. Everyone agreed and applauded for Bubba.

“I'll also be happy to take the last of your guard cattle off your hands, Billy. I done grow'd fond of Yates and Dunn. We got a new improved bunkhouse waiting just for them. I been promise'n them people for weeks now, it wouldn't be long before we got something better for 'em,” Bubba replied.

“Done! You got a place for Orville Higginbothem?” Billy asked and grinned.

“You know I do, Brother, but I feel bad about breaking up them punishment slaves. They sort of formed a brotherhood,” Bubba said.

“Orville's done had his grand opening. As far as I'm concerned, he's graduated. He ain't a trainee no more. He's treated the same as the other slaves except he's gotta' wear his harness and chastity contraption. I still want his activities monitored. I think, as a life-time slave he should be controlled at all times, and he will come to be dependent on you, Bubba, or anyone you farm him out to temporarily for any relief we choose to afford him. We been over the details of his training, and I expect more of the same for him. We still got some time to go on Harley-Buck and Earl's graduation. I'm a firm believer they should also continue to be controlled, but perhaps, not as strenuously; otherwise, I don't see no problem. Orville will still remain a Daniels slave, but it don't mean we can't farm him out to you. I know you'll take good care of him and provide your surrogate pa with what he needs,” Billy said without nuance. Several men bit their tongues and tried not to laugh.

“It would be handy having him living on the same ranch. Sure, I'll be happy to give him a bunk and take care of him like he's one of my own,” Bubba said and grinned, “What about the Dewberrys? Aunt Helen said their applications were in order, and they will become official members of the Grange in good standing come the first of August. I was gonna' talk with Doug today about making arrangements for thirty or more Irin slaves to start living and working for them. I thought they'd be here,” Bubba said.

“Them boys is visiting some relatives in Brownwood today, Bubba. I'll have Hoss or Doug get in touch with you this week,” Grover said.

“How soon can we announce the opening of our new bank in the Hill Country, Mr. Pennywise?” Billy asked Ernest sitting next to Bubba as close as he could get. Billy was sure he'd be just as happy sitting in his new daddy's lap; Bubba probably would be, too, but there was always social decorum to consider.

“You may announce the new bank opening anytime you wish, Master Billy; but, of course, the grand opening won't be until we either rent a local facility in Mason, Junction, London, Harper, Brady or another close town of your choice. You could start with a temporary building and move to a more permanent facility when one can be built. Included in your five hundred new cattle from the Irin are experts in money management procedures with the necessary banking savvy to get you up and running within a short period of time. We want to do it as soon as possible to impress on the world you are not just a fly-by-night, may-fly, gnat-like creature who either moderately annoys or shines brightly for a short while then disappears from the scene. The more money you can flash, the faster your star will ascend in the heavens so no matter what you choose to do afterward, it will not be easily challenged,” Ernest Pennywise said.

“When will you be able to take charge, sir?” Billy asked.

“Immediately, Master Billy. I plan a brief return to Houston to wrap up some loose ends with our family business, then I will be here seeing to your bank until I get it set up and running smoothly, then I will commute back and forth from the Hill Country to Houston to manage both. I may ask your indulgence of accepting either my father or brother as my equal representative on occasion. They are as talented and knowledgeable as I am, and they will be working under my auspices,” Ernest said.

“Certainly. The Pennywise name is well-respected in financial circles,” Billy agreed.

* * * * * * *
Sunday afternoon was one of the more bucolic times the family experienced together in a good while. Everyone was in a great mood and nothing from the outside world could get to them. They were shielded, at least temporarily, from the great media wave of tsunami proportions growing among the people of the world who saw something new and wonderful happening in the Hill Country of Texas and everyone was scouring the Internet to gain the least bit of information about Billy Daniels and the Daniels family.

Billy and his posse were busy teaching their new fledglings to transport from place to place and ultimately to the 'cloakroom' to shed their wings. It didn't take long for them to learn. It was like anything else in life one learns to do. What might seem difficult and almost magical to them at first, proved to be little more than learning to exercise their newly acquired gifts to accomplish the skills they needed to sustain themselves in their new personas as Cowboy-Angels. Billy worked with Pierre, Bayrum, Tree, Tank, and Ram, to teach them how to transport their entire family if need be in an emergency. He also taught them how to open gates to go from one place to another for convenience in making greater jumps from place to place. They became quite proficient and the other Cowboy-Angels watched while the men they were training took on a new pride as members of an elite group. There was a strong group-bonding felt among them. It was like they were joining a brotherhood to end all fraternities. The newly-fledged could only wonder what wonderful things they might be able to learn in their new forms. Billy's posse assured them the possibilities were limitless, but like all good things should be tempered with wisdom and prudence.

* * * * * * *
As the afternoon progressed, there were birthday gifts exchanged and Billy's gifts to Randy, Pard Andreeson, Tommy Griffin, Rory, and Calhoun, were ponies. Last, but not least, Billy gave a beautiful pony to Kayla. Kayla burst into tears she was so touched. She resigned herself to the fact, in cowboy country, the boys would be the only ones to get a pony. Kayla ran to Billy and cried in his big arms as she hugged, kissed, and thanked him for his thoughtfulness and consideration. Like their snow-white Watcher-Protector, the McMartin boys knew they couldn't take their ponies home with them and must leave them at the ranch to enjoy when they visited. Tommy's uncles would keep his pony for him to ride when he came to visit them, or they could gate it to the Daniels ranch for longer visits and special occasions.

Billy was not expecting a birthday present from anyone and made everyone promise they wouldn't get him anything. Earlier that morning, Boomer and the twins left to help in the kitchen as Billy and Nick were finishing getting ready to leave the line-cabin. “You don't think they got me anything, do you Pa?” he asked Nick.

“No! Absolutely not! You made it perfectly clear no one was to spend any money on a present for you. You were adamant. The celebration was for our younger cow-persons. I would know if anyone even thought about having the temerity to go against their master's wishes. They would never take the chance of alienating their beloved cowboy leader and Kemosabe,” Nick assured him firmly and smiled. Nick tried hard not to laugh at the disappointed look on Billy's face as Nick's harsh words of reality slapped him upside his head.

“No, I suppose you're right, Tonto,” Billy said and sighed deeply like he was now an adult and must get used to putting birthday anxieties behind him; however, he was more than a little pleased and surprised the Houston Symphony remembered and came to celebrate his birthday. It was surprise enough for him. Any chance to make beautiful music was the greatest gift anyone could give him for his birthday. Later that afternoon, a posse of his men and several representatives from Captain Nick's ship invited Billy and Captain Nick to go through a gate with them to show them a project they were working on and completed at noon Friday. Billy had no idea what they were talking about. Everyone, including Nick, knew about it and shared input, but it was the best kept secret on the ranch. Billy's suspicions weren't even aroused when his posse insisted the women folk of the family accompany them. Bossman Randy opened a gate and everyone stepped through into the living area of the new line-cabin the family created for Billy and his immediate family.

It was spectacular. It was built on the cliffs overlooking the two rivers coming together not far from the cave where Captain Nick's ship was docked. There was a grand view of the area and you could see as far up the rivers as down. It was built on three levels and the main living area was on top. The bottom floor contained a living area with a new kitchen and dining area with an enormous fireplace, but it boasted a new Wolf brand cooking stove and modern cold-lockers. It was comfortably furnished and invitingly warm. On the second floor there were six large apartments with huge bedrooms, each with their own facilities. There would certainly be room for Archie and Edith, and Hank and Buck, in the new line-cabin. Boomer and the twins would have a much more comfortable living area than the loft in the old line-cabin. The old line-cabin was not touched and was left as a monument to the early days of Billy's family.

The most awesome part for Billy was the living area on the top floor. His old upright piano was carefully installed but sitting not far from it was a brand new Steinway concert grand. It was positioned in front of the windows with a glorious view of the western portion of the ranch and the Hill Country. The sun was beginning to go down and the view was glorious as the soft rays of evening came through the glass and created a sacred feeling in the great room. Billy was speechless and his family was having a ball enjoying their triumph to the max, because they managed to keep it a secret from him. There was a large cloth banner hanging from the ceiling which read: Happy Birthday, Master Billy! It was signed by everyone who worked on the project. It couldn't have been more perfect for Billy and his small immediate family. He vowed it would take him days to discover the many perks which were included in his new home.

* * * * * * *
There followed an early supper for everyone on the ship who wished to attend the broadcast of Billy's interview with Doug Quilty, including a goodly number of the upper echelon of the Essengurda. They were responsible for several stunning works of art placed in Master Billy's new home as tributes to him and his family. After a wonderful supper everyone went to the great hall to await the the eight o'clock showing of the news documentary/interview about Master Billy and his ranch.

Stan Norsworthy, the TV station director, decided not to go with the introduction Doug Quilty previously recorded to be shown before Billy's interview because the impromptu Internet broadcast and interviews during the barnyard concert pretty much trumped it. Instead, Doug and Wes recorded a new introduction and sent it in a file to Stan Norsworthy. It was far more bold and comprehensive than the previous intro.

When everyone gathered in the great hall before the enormous video screen, Billy looked around him at the number of people he and his posse gathered unto themselves and brought into their family. He was pleased with everyone. They were a healthy cross section of good people and their children. It was a group of people he knew he could depend on and who returned a healthy respect for the young cowboy without the taint of hero worship. They left that up to the four legged critters and the Sun Bears. In honor of his birthday, Billy and his men enhanced the rest of the thirty or more Sun Bears so they wouldn't feel less than their winged brothers and sisters.

Strangely enough, the small ones failed to grow wings, and it was decided they were like their human counterparts; they wouldn't be able to fledge until they reached sexual maturity – the much anticipated, highly overrated, and equally dreaded, Pooh-bear-tea. In the case of the young Sun Bears the cognomen was probably most apt. Not unlike their human brothers and sisters, they moaned and groaned their disappointment. The adults of both species found their plight amusing, but agreed, it was probably a better plan as witnessed by the six rambunctious flying pups. However, in defense of Miranda's offspring, the closer they came to maturity, the less mischief they got into and fewer accidents occurred. As usual, Gracie was the last to temper her spirits.

The anticipated TV news show came on, and it was a national channel who took advantage to say a few words about the strange but admirable family who live in the Hill Country of West Central Texas and a young man who displays great maturity and talents well beyond the average for most humans his age. Billy Daniels seemed to catch the world's attention with his music and his strange but appealing family he gathered around him. They went on to tell about Billy hiring many of the members of the Houston Philharmonic Orchestra for his barnyard concerts and personally reshaped them into a commanding force of music-making under his direction. Critics from around the world were claiming Billy to be the new wunderkind of his generation; however, not only could he conduct an orchestra, he could play a piano with mature bravura and good taste; and, if that weren't enough he composed a concerto for two tubas which has the music world trying to knock his door down to get permission to play the work.

They paused their introduction for a moment to play a small portion of the Byrd men's performance at the previous afternoon's barnyard concert. It was the extremely difficult cadenza where the soloist were calling back and forth to each other like a couple of wounded bull moose and the final bars of the concerto brought it to an end. Billy's audience went crazy and the video showed the love and passion the people held for their young maestro with unbridled cheers, whistles, cowboy hats being tossed high in the air, and the thunderous stomping of boots and some very big-feet. It was an exhilarating moment to say the least. Finally, the announcer said he hoped the world would appreciate getting to know Mr. Daniels and his family and turned the rest of the program over to their affiliate station in Houston, Texas.

Doug Quilty came on the big screen and everyone in the great hall applauded for him. Doug blushed and nodded to everyone his appreciation. “Thanks for joining us this evening for an interview with one of the most remarkable young men it's been my pleasure to meet and interview. For those of you who managed to catch the streaming video from the Daniels ranch of their weekly barnyard concert also got to see me doing my roving reporter bit with the help of my faithful friend and cameraman, Wes Taylor. And yes, the talking, flying dogs, dancing Sun Bears, and Bigfoot monsters you saw in the video are real. They are neither CGI nor animatronics. They are very real folks.

“I won't go into a lot of explanation in this introduction other than to say there are further shots of the more unusual of Master Billy's family and you will get to see more of the excruciatingly cute, flying, talking pups in the coming interview with him. I will neither keep you in suspense nor frustrate you any longer with my palaver other than to say, I'm extremely grateful and honored to have been a part of this broadcast. Mister Wes Taylor, my cameraman, told me to be sure and include his gratitude to the Daniels family for allowing him to film whatever we found of interest, and there's more than you can imagine. We hope you enjoy the show,” Doug said, and after several ubiquitously obnoxious advertisements, the main video began.

Billy was impressed by the professionalism and the care the two men put into the video. They were told they could use anything in the two hours of video footage he approved. They included everything from being a hard working cowboy to Billy's interaction with his cowboy and cowgirl slaves to his main posse with several who wore rings through their noses. There was no explanations asked and none were offered. The unusual only aroused more interest and questions. Billy's posse was sitting around with Billy and he introduced each one. Billy was big, but those of his Cowboy-Angel posse were bigger than him. He introduced his surrogate pa, Nick Samuels, as such. Billy explained his own parents died shortly after he was born, and he was raised by his grandmother and uncle. Doug asked why his dad had a ring through his nose? Billy laughed and replied, “I don't never want him get'n away from me,” then he fell-out laughing at his joke. Doug had the good sense not to pursue the question.

Doug brought up the subject of the talking, flying pups. As Billy carefully explained how they came about, while they were talking, the video began to show shots of the birth of the pups and Billy saving the life of the smallest they named Gracie. He explained his close neighbor passed away the year before and left his nephew his scientific papers. In them were some experiments for introducing certain qualities from one species to another via DNA manipulation. It was their first experiment and while they didn't create a Frankenstein monster, they definitely made a questionable mistake when they gave the Sheriff's faithful companion the gift of speech and the ability to grow a set of wings.

Little did they know, she would pass her gifts on to the next generation. Billy laughed and said it was not one of his or his friends more well-thought-out decisions. There was a pause in the conversation while they showed the video of Gracie flying around Uncle Tom's cabin over the heads of the orchestra looking for a place to land when Billy called to her. She immediately changed course and flew to his waiting arms. It was one of the most moving moments of the interview when it showed Billy's natural love for all creatures and asked Gracie to sing with him for the orchestra. When they began to sing you could hear everyone in the audience let out a deep sigh of empathy for the moment. It was gut-wrenchingly sweet and cute to the max.

Another scene showed Billy and his two halfling 'little brothers', as he called them, combing out their huge Watcher-Protector after cleaning him in the shower. The three men were naked, but the video was so cleverly edited you never saw their male parts. It did show Boomer playing with them, holding them close, and shamelessly stealing kisses from the small men and his master. It was like it was part of a ritual to clean him and keep him in good health. Billy talked over the video telling how Boomer became his big brother and Watcher-Protector from an early age, and he slowly became absorbed into his life and ultimately accepted as one of his family.

“And what about the rumors you have become the Protector of every Watcher-Protector and the human Daddy Long-legs who roam the country foraging for food?” Doug asked.

“I don't know it's official, but somehow the word has gotten out they are welcome on the ranches supported by the Grange. We have quite a few now, and we are growing every day. They gather each weekend at our ranch for the barnyard concert and sit in the balcony seats across the river. We take food and treats down to the river for them every Saturday afternoon so they have one good solid meal per week to supplement their foraging. They bring their sick and injured to us, and our staff medical team takes care of them for as long as it takes to get them up and going again.

“Recently, some hunters shot one of the Daddy Long-legs, and he fell off a cliff on one of the Grange ranches near Fredericksburg. His Watcher-Protector carried him in his arms from Fredericksburg to our ranch, and we managed to save him. Turns out he's a veteran of the Middle-East oil wars whom the VA refused care because he had no positive identification,” Billy said with justifiable emotion in his voice. “Let me make a plea to anyone who might find one of either in his gun sight, please don't kill them. If you do, and I find out about it, I won't be a happy camper, and you will have to deal with me personally. I promise, you will not like me in my unhappy camper mode. They do no harm and only scavenge and forage for food. They ain't harmful, but if you give them a chance, they will become your best friend. They are highly intelligent and capable of great love and empathy for those who need help,” Billy said.

The interview interspersed with the videos was a remarkable piece of work. It was nothing less than a masterpiece of news reporting and interviewing techniques. Many times, instead of Billy just answering question in front of the camera, Doug and Wes would run corresponding video shots as the two men conversed back and forth. It was timed perfectly down to the gnat's ass and was one of the most moving and compelling videos ever to be shown on National Television. Stan Norsworthy called it right. Doug and Wes won the Pulitzer prize for news coverage that year from their excellent work producing and editing of the Billy Daniels Interview.

When the interview was over there wasn't a dry eye in the great hall. Billy didn't know what to expect, but the interview and the images displayed over the conversation were spectacular. Anyone who saw it wanted to become a part of the Daniels family. It was just that good. Billy took Doug Quilty in his arms and wept. He pulled Wes Taylor into their hug and the three men cried together. Billy's family went crazy applauding for Doug and Wes's work.

“Whatever you men are making in Houston, I will double it to come work for me. We will start our own broadcasting network on the Net and you men will run it for us. It will become a beacon of liberal socialistic humanism propaganda. I know 'propaganda' is a loaded word, but it's the only word I can use to mean building a bulwark of opposite opinions coming from the neo-liberal and conservative corporate oligarchy garbage we have to listen to day in and out,” Billy proposed.

“Are you serious, Master Billy?” Wes asked.

“As serious as any man can be, Son,” Billy replied.

“I ain't gotta' do me much cogitate'n about it, Master Billy. Count me in!” Doug exclaimed.

“Absolutely, sir! Where my partner goes, I go!” Wes said firmly.

“Does that mean we can bring Elaine Parsons with us, Master Billy?” Doug asked and grinned.

“God! Why would you want to? How would you ever get her to clean up her act?” Billy asked, and the three men shared a laugh.

“I could throw a bucket of water on her,” Doug said.

“No! Don't you dare! She'd melt and run down into them red slippers, and I want them for my Ruby Keeler number in our Spring Follies next year,” Billy said and got everyone laughing.

It was getting late, and Billy's guests were ready to depart. Under Bossman Randy's supervision they encouraged Pierre Ondine to open a gate to the foyer in the Ondine home. He was successful and his family was thrilled with their dad's new abilities. Everyone in the Ondine party including René and his protector Bayrum Listrine, followed by the newly refurbished Scarbo and Le Gibet went through the gate their main man opened for them. After they went into the kitchen area and Genevieve made tea for everyone. She kept looking at the large feed sack her husband brought with him through the gate and set on the chair next to him. “What's in the bag you brought with you, Husband?” Genevieve asked. She noticed her sons, nephew, and Bayrum were smiling.

“Oh, nothing much. Trifles really,” Pierre said like he was underplaying his hand and tossing off what the bag contained as of little importance. Genevieve thought it was strange the other men laughed. “Small presents for you and the girls from the Daniels family as a memento and a gesture of thanks for your visit and your graciousness in agreeing to become part of Master Billy's extended family,” he said.

“How thoughtful. May we see them?” Genevieve asked.

Pierre reached into the sack and pulled out three small wooden boxes. The boys carefully labeled the boxes with the name of their sisters and their mother. Pierre handed each box to the lady with the corresponding name. Genevieve told the youngest daughter, Amie, to open her box first and she did. Everyone made over the beauty of the gold bracelet and the jewels. Chantel opened her box next and the bracelet inside was equally as lovely as her little sister's. She swooned in ecstasy over it, and everyone thought it was beautiful. Genevieve opened her box and was equally wowed by her bracelet as her girls were. She immediately tried it on and loved the way it looked against the texture of her fine dark skin.

“Oh, I almost forgot, Darling. There's another, larger box which goes with the emerald bracelet,” Pierre said pulling out the larger redwood box with the ornate carvings on it. “Here,” he said handing the box to his wife.

Genevieve took it, set the box on the table before her, and ran her hand over the beautiful carvings. She seemed almost hesitant to open it, but her girls couldn't wait to see what was inside and encouraged their mother to do so. Slowly Genevieve opened the box and revealed the beauty which lay before her. “Mon Dieu! C'est très magnifique!” she exclaimed in awe, “It's beautiful beyond words, Pierre, but this has to be worth a small fortune,” she added.

“I'm sure it is, but I can assure you it's monetary value is almost meaningless to Master Billy,” Pierre replied.

“Begging your pardon, Uncle,” said René, “I'm quite sure Master Billy knows its worth, but to a man who has so much, it means little in his reasoning; especially, when it could bring great joy to someone who would appreciate it like he knew Aunt Genevieve will,” he added.

“Our nephew is correct, Sweetheart. I'm ashamed I entertained the idea the man might be courting us for our wealth. I couldn't have been more wrong. Compared to the Daniels family the combined wealth of the Ondine family would pale by comparison. We are paupers compared to their wealth. It's staggering, Mon Cher. The boys, our nephew, and Mr. Listrine will confirm what I have told you ladies,” Pierre said. And the men nodded their agreement in unison.

* * * * * * *
That evening the men retired to the tubs before going to bed for the evening. However, for a while it was uncomfortable because of the terrible smell coming from their prisoners in the dungeon. Billy closed the doors to the dungeon and evacuated the stale air with large fans already in place on the ship. He also gathered sweet spices and exotic incense to slowly boil over the heater for the hot water in the tubs. Almost everyone of the main family was there. Young Wilbur, the pure, was fully recovered and couldn't be more in love with his intended husband. He appeared at the pool without his penis. His husband decided he wanted to have himself some boy-pussy for the evening.

It took Wilbur a while to ween himself from his medication. His husband was understanding and kind enough to provide him with another 'fix' from time to time, and Wilbur would be a happy camper for a while. Ernest Pennywise overheard several men talking about it and asked about Wilbur's 'medication.' They explained it to him in detail so he would understand. Bubba was sitting next to him and carefully watched Ernest's reaction. The big cowboy couldn't tell what the small man was thinking, but he wouldn't eavesdrop on him. Ernest listened intently to the other men talk and their opinions. He leaned into Bubba and spoke softly in his ear, “Would you ever require that of me, Master Bubba?” he asked.

“Yes, if I thought you truly needed it as a medical cleansing as prescribed for Wilbur's poisoning, or if you insisted you wanted to take me because no other course of action would completely fill the emptiness in the gut of your soul; howsomever, I must warn you, certain sexual practices between men may become addictive. They aren't addictive in the same sense as illegal drugs or alcohol, but nevertheless, they can play havoc on your psyche and you might find yourself growing to crave it,” Bubba explained as best he could.

“And that would be wrong, sir?” Ernie asked.

“Not at all, Son. H'it ain't wrong for Master Marcus to provide his young slave with what he needs and craves from time to time. It's strictly between them. It's their business and nobody else's. There's an old saying, one should practice moderation in all things. The problem occurs when folks forget the 'moderation' part and want more. At some point they realize they've become dependent and develop a deep emotional cravings for certain things. I think Master Marcus is a fully capable, competent master and is showing mature restraint and a healthy guidance for his young slave. Allowing his slave a treat once in a while for good behavior is certainly within reason.

“I noticed young Wilbur, Buck, and the big man named Zeus don't have penises. They have female organs instead. Why is that?” Ernie asked.

“It's their choice to please their husbands. Buck and Wilbur can morph their penises back at will, but Zeus can't. In Zeus' case he has no choice. He's his dad's wife by marriage, but he's also Thor's slave due to a punishment decision by a court on another world; Fort Adam Lear, I think, but I'm not sure. Only his dad has the power to change his son, but most of the time, Thor is required by the laws of their first planet to leave his son in his 'cunt' state,” Bubba explained.

“How did Buck and Wilbur learn to morph their genitals?” Ernie asked.

“Master Billy gave them the application and taught them how to use it,” Bubba said and smiled to himself. He could only imagine what was going through his little buddy's mind. Bubba felt under the water and found Ernest's cock was hard as a rock. Bubba gently took the small man's cock and balls in his giant hand and gently squeezed. “Does it make my slave-boy hard? Does it excite him to think about such things?” Bubba asked and stole a kiss.

“Obviously, sir. I haven't been able to take my eyes off them,” Ernest replied, “Would you like for me to have a pussy for you to enjoy, Master Bubba? Would it please you, sir?” he asked.

“To be honest with you, Ernie, I don't know. I ain't never had much to do with women, so I ain't got me no way to judge one way or t'other. I ain't ashamed to admit I'm practically a virgin to that form of sex, but I wouldn't be afraid to explore it with you if'n it's something my slave's got a real deep hankering to try. It would be a first for bow'fus,” Bubba replied.

“Should I ask Master Billy to teach me to morph?” Ernie asked.

“No, that won't be necessary. I have the application on file, and I can morph your body for you – like that!” Bubba snapped his fingers, “Furthermore, I don't want you learning the application. I want complete control over you and your body when we're alone together in our small cocoon-world of master/slave bonding. Do you understand, Slave? Do you need further explanation?” he asked, bussed a kiss behind Ernie's ear, and growled like a wild animal about to go into rut.

Bubba's words sent chills of excitement up and down Ernie's spine. “I will obey my master, sir,” the smaller man said quietly. He no sooner got the words out when he found himself in an embrace with his huge Cowboy-Master and expected a rough, hard, kiss. Ernie was surprised when Bubba gave him the sweetest, most gentle kiss one human male could give another.

“Them's the words of love for your master, Slave. I'm proud of you, Ernie. You done come a long way, Son, and I promise, I won't never let you down,” Bubba whispered, and they kissed again. “Now stand up in the water, turn around to face the other men, and put your back against your master's body,” Bubba ordered softly. Everyone around the pool was watching. Bubba stood behind his slave. The big cowboy put his big left arm around Ernest's front and pulled him back into his body. Ernie could feel Bubba's ample manhood hard against his backside. Bubba waved his right hand in front of Ernie and his penis was gone. The small man was left with a fine little cunt, especially designed to comfortably take his master's large penis. Ernie didn't expect it so quickly and began to blush. The men around the pool stood, applauded, cheered, and whistled for Ernie. Ernie grinned and turned into his master's arms from embarrassment.

“No, turn around and show them men what you chose to do for your master. Stand proud, Ernie, and show them the love you have for me. Never be ashamed of your love for your master, Son,” Bubba said. Ernie slowly turned, separated himself from Bubba, blushed from head to toe, but bowed to the men around the pool. They gave him another round of applause and a standing ovation. The men's approval infused Ernest Pennywise with more self-confidence than any long talk might have. He knew he made the right decision.

Billy turned to his pa and predicted they wouldn't remain in the pool for long. He was correct. Bubba made excuses for them, and they bid everyone a 'goodnight' and a fond farewell. As they left the pool area the men watched Bubba pick up his smaller companion and threw Ernie over his shoulder like a prehistoric man taking his prize back to his cave to have his way with him. Ernie could only smile and wave to the men in the pool as they laughed at the silly grin of anticipation on his face.

When they returned to their apartment in the castle, Bubba wasn't even breathing heavy from climbing the five stories of steps in the tower with his slave slung over his shoulder like a rack of lamb. Ernie was more in awe of his master than ever before. Ernie didn't try to challenge the big cowboy; he just relaxed, enjoyed the ride, and the splendid view of the muscles working in his master's firm buttocks. He knew Bubba was big, but he never fully appreciated just how strong and powerful his master was. Ernie likened Bubba unto a great bull complete with a ring through his nose, his tits, and his cock.

For some unknown reason, Ernie didn't yet understand, his tongue got hard, and his mouth began to salivate watching Bubba's perfect ass as he climbed the stairway to their mutual heaven. About halfway up the stairs, it flashed in his mind, he'd like to ram his tongue as far up his master's ass as he could get it. He wondered if that might also be one of the addictive sexual anomalies his master tried to warn him about. Ernie made a mental note, he would ask his master at the appropriate moment. When they got to their room, Bubba gently raised his slave from his shoulder and laid him on the bed. The big cowboy immediately lay down next to Ernie and and began to make sweet love to him. Ernie was in heaven soaking up his master's attention like it was the bread of life and he was taking part in a great feast. “For a man who likes to play like he's a Neanderthal and carries his slave off to his cave for some prime-evil deviant canoodling, you can make the sweetest love,” Ernie said.

“I can be rough and roar like a lion. I have done so with others on occasion, but not with you, my Good Slave. I don't have to demand or take from you. You are always ready to give me what I want and need. You readily learned to accept your role, and you trust me to know mine and perform without flaw. And so I shall. Once't you made up your mind and swore a commitment– first to yourself, and then to your master– there can be no room for doubts in your mind. It's a rare phenomenon, to be sure. You have given yourself to me, and therefore, you acknowledge I own you from the tip of your handsome head to the bottoms of your sweet-feet, and whatever sexual option you wish to provide me in-between. Chicken in the bread-pan pecking out dough; please your master, and a do-si-do,” Bubba said impishly and stole a kiss from his slave.

Ernie giggled. “I never imagined there was room for humor or laughter with sex. I imagined it to be dark, somber, and studious– you must be serious at all times and work at it as a career goal until you graduate. However, you make it more like play at recess than a heavy burden of work,” Ernie said.

“You are maturing and making some good observations. Good sex should always be joyful and somewhat playful, but there comes a moment when two souls join together as one like our last episode, and there is no room for either humor or darkness. You should strive to experience the awe and a joy in fulfillment a man can't reach any other way, but a good master will always welcome new ideas to heighten the experience for both,” Bubba replied.

“I'm glad you gave me a pussy, Master Bubba. Shall we take it for a test drive?” Ernest asked.

“I'd be glad to do the honors, Son, and give your new pussy what it needs. Perhaps, together, we can tame it and make it purr,” Bubba said and laughed.

“I have no doubt you can satisfy both, Master Bubba. I have faith in you,” Ernie said.

Bubba ordered Ernie to remove his heavy cock ring and set it aside. He took Ernie like he was the big cowboy's new bride, and they just came home from the wedding party. He was firm but gentle and from information he gained about sex from the Watchers on Retikki Prime, Bubba knew his slave, as a vaginal virgin, would require caution and greater care his first time. Bubba was very careful not to tear or hurt Ernie, and after a good while of letting his slave get used to him, he felt the small man dilate for him, allowing the big man to ease the rest of his larger than normal cock inside until he bottomed out. Ernie's little cunt was a perfect fit for every inch of his master's bull-like prick.

“Ah, you have pleased me very much, my Good Slave. Feeling me inside you like this is a remarkable experience, but I realize I'm in the driver's seat. We've yet to take it for a ride. If the rest is as good as this, we may have us a keeper here. How does it feel for you?” Bubba asked.

“Link with me, Master, and you can feel for yourself. I love it when you share your mind with me, and I can feel how you feel inside me,” Ernie urged his master.

Ernie felt a tickle at the base of his spine, << Come. Come inside and make yourself at home, Master, >> he urged Bubba. He heard his master let out a great sigh as he slipped into his slave's mind and could feel every nuance of how his big cock felt inside the small man lying beneath him.

<< Would you agree we have a winner here, Slave? >> Bubba asked.

<< So far, Master. Let's see how it rides with you in the driver's seat, sir, >> Ernie returned his thought.

<< No! Not this time! >> Bubba said firmly. Wrapping his big arms around the smaller man, the big cowboy rolled onto his back until Ernie was lying on top of his master's huge body, << You take us for a ride with your new surrogate-pussy and don't spare them horses until you feel your master fill you full of his love, >> he commanded.

“I'll do my best, Master Bubba,” Ernie replied.

“I'm sure you will. I have faith in you,” Bubba said.

Ernie began. It was a totally new experience for him, but the feeling was wonderful. It was unbelievably good. He couldn't imagine being more comfortable and pleased with his master than he was at that moment. The small man began his ride with short strokes like a young skater on new ice testing his abilities. He was still linked to Bubba's mind and could feel how it was feeling for him as well as himself. It was the most remarkable experience for him to have his big brute of a master inside his own mind, enjoying the sensation as much as Ernie. It was like they became one person to realize their most cherished secrets and shared hopes for their coupling.

Ernie decided his master needed to feel more of him – much more of his cunt surrounding and massaging his master's big piece of meat to make it feel better and better – as good a feeling as he could possibly provide. The better he was making Bubba's cock feel, the better and more comfortable he began to feel with his master inside him. Ernie understood why his master turned the tables on him and insisted he do the driving. With Ernie in the driver's seat, the large man didn't have to worry about hurting his smaller companion – Bubba's beloved slave.

<< I am your beloved slave, Master. I can feel your pride. Can you feel my love? Can you feel my need? Oh, God, Bubba! This is so awesome. I can't imagine a more wonderful feeling with you inside my body. I think I've finally found my missing part, sir, >> Ernie cried in his mind and Bubba could feel the small man's hot tears falling on his massive chest.

<< Keep riding for a while. Loosen your saddle, my sweet slave, and after you've had enough, your master will take the reins and ride us to the barn. Don't hold nothing back from your master, Son. Give him your best. Give him everything you have to offer. Ride your master's pony like a Valkyrie from Hell, late for her entry at the opera, my love. Show the cowboy what owns you how much you love him; welcome him into your fine little cunt, and let your body appreciate his presence inside you. Be a good host and serve your master well by making your body invite him to take what goodness you have to give, >> Bubba waxed poetic.

<< I can do better than that, Master, >> Ernie sent to his master, smiled, and blinked his eyes while looking into Bubba's. Instantly they were transported to another world and the bed they were in was floating on a giant raft near the shoreline of some tropical cove. It was almost sundown on the planet and the two suns were beginning to cross positions on their way behind the great sea of water. There was a warm, balmy breeze and the smell of exotic flowers in the air. It was a beautiful place, and they were the only two people for miles around.

<< What? Where are we? Did you make this for us, my love? >> Bubba asked.

<< We're not really on this world. I'm replaying a scene from my memory in case I wanted to create a more spectacular setting for someone I love and cherish to share with me. The application suddenly came to me, and I thought you might find it stimulating and enjoyable, >> Ernie explained.

<< It's perfect. Now you're really gonna' get it, Slave, >> Bubba roared and growled afterward.

<< There is a god after all! >> Ernie exclaimed, << And before you remind me, my god's name is Master Bubba Kirkendall, >> he added, and laughed as his master rolled him over onto his back to get into his pony's saddle.

<< And I hope I'm the only god you will ever need or choose to worship with your love, my Sweet Slave, >> Bubba said laughing at Ernie's joke. He was secretly glad to know his partner was gaining enough self-confidence he could find a bit of humor in their bonding.

<< You are the only god I will ever need, Master Bubba, >> Ernie whispered and stole a kiss from his master.

It was one of the most stimulating fucks either man ever experienced. They shared their minds and bodies until they reached the pinnacle of ecstasy and climaxed so hard together they almost passed out from the total drain of their raw-animal physical gyrations and emotional psyches. They were not only totally wasted, but also, like the Phoenix bird, they arose from their ashes after the small death of orgasm to once again make strong passionate love to each other. Ernie kept them suspended on the beautiful world until the final warm rays of the last, larger of the two suns began to fade. He turned off the mental switch, and they collapsed into each other's arms.

They slept the night with Bubba inside his slave. They did a repeat early the next morning before the artificial light began to grow strong on Captain Nick's ship. It was even more thrilling and emotionally consuming for them than the previous night. They were beginning to 'know' each other. They sowed the seeds; then, they reaped the bountiful harvest of their love until they both exseeded in unison. A master and his slave became one. They rang the small Star-Bell beside their bed three times and three new bright young stars were born in the constellation Ophiuchus. They were three lovely children.

“Thank you for a wonderful evening, Master,” Ernie whispered in Bubba's ear.

“Thank you for your awesome gifts, my Good Slave,” Bubba replied.

Ernie requested his master change his sex organs often. Only a couple of times, on certain occasions, did Bubba make a request. The big cowboy left it up to his slave what Ernie wished to bring to their banquet. Bubba was never disappointed.

* * * * * * *
The next morning, after breakfast in the large dining hall on the ship, Master Bubba's slave had to depart and return to Houston to wrap up some pressing business arrangements and prepare to leave the company in his father and younger brother's hands while he helped organize and set up the new Grange Money Management system. It was one of many sad partings with his master Ernest Forthright Pennywise would have to endure until they could take a break in time and escape to some secluded world and spend weeks or sometimes a month wallowing in their love for each other. Their get-aways became their mental and physical backbones in their sometimes frantic worlds. They used their time wisely and managed their side-trips into each other hearts as building blocks and life-rafts for their more mundane world. As strange and circuitous as it might sound, it worked for them.

* * * * * * *
Doug Quilty and Wes Taylor gated back to their places in Houston to continue their jobs, but they were filled with a new sense of joy and anticipation for the chance to get in on the ground floor of a completely new broadcasting system and to produce a news show to counter the uber-conservative stations they were force to work with. There simply were no other options – until the Daniels family came along. They watched the commentaries after the broadcast of Master Billy's interview, and for the most part, commentaries were middle of the road to downright skeptic of the honesty or goodness of such a young man.

They really didn't know what to make of the young cowboy from the Hill Country, but that didn't stop Elaine (both feet in her mouth) Parson's from slathering on her indignant indulgence in back-biting hateful rhetoric. She insinuated Billy Daniels was a fraud and a charlatan. She argued no man could have so many slaves who looked like they just came from Sunday school in a small rural western town– and there were also any number of young women as well. She intimated the bunkhouses were little more than sexual brothels and the women were only there to keep the male slaves happy.

The first thing Doug Quilty planned to accomplish upon his return to Houston was to off-load Parsons as quickly as possible and get her millstone from around his neck. Doug was determined to git rid of Parsons even if he had to take a loss. 'Who would want her?' he asked himself. Doug and Wes met for breakfast Monday morning before going into work at the station. They decided on a plan of action for the coming week and how much longer they wanted to be working for the Houston station when they could be a part of their own station on or near the Daniels Ranch.

“Look, Wes, you and me make a great team. We think alike and we agree on almost everything. It shows in our final product and for all of them conservative right-wing sons of bitches including the Mother-mouth Parsons' opinions, our work is excellent. The only regret I'll have is leaving Stanley Norsworthy behind. He's been good to us and protected us against them neo-Nazi Christo-zombies who only spout the party line. For a good while now, I've suspected he just might be a closeted progressive,” Doug said.

“Ain't no doubt in my mine, Boss. I'm sure he is, but how do you plan to off-load Parsons?” Wes asked.

“Don't know yet, but I got me a feeling when we go in this morning, we may be called on the carpet for our Daniels show and our impromptu streaming video for the barnyard concert. Legally, there ain't a thing they can do because the Internet ain't recognized as an official broadcasting system yet, even though the major movie providers have been streaming for years. However, I think along with any number of other programs there will be a major turn-around soon. I think Billy Daniels knows, and has big plans to get in on the ground floor. To speed up our time to be out of Houston and working for Billy, I may have to take a big loss with Parsons' contract,” Doug lamented.

“How soon do you think we can be out of Houston, Boss?” Wes asked.

“Could you be ready in two weeks?” Doug asked in reply.

“Forty-eight hours! Tops!” Wes replied, and the men shared a laugh.

“Come to think on it, that's probably about as long as it would take me,” Doug said, “Let's wait and see what we're up against this morning, and we'll know better; however, if you have any reservations about signing on to Master Billy's outfit tell me now and let's discuss it,” he added.

“I have none, Doug. I'm with you a hun'nert and one percent,” Wes answered and grinned.

“You're get'n better with your cowboy speak, Son,” Doug said and smiled.

The men no sooner walked through the doors to the station heading to their office when they were confronted by a young office page who told them they were wanted in Mr. Norsworthy's office immediately. Doug made sure they walked into the office on the stroke of eight o'clock so he knew Stan wouldn't call a meeting for tardiness. He looked at Wes and shrugged his shoulders like he couldn't imagine what would be so important.

“Maybe he wants to congratulate us on the Daniels piece, Boss,” Wes offered.

“Perhaps you're right, Son,” he replied softly but not convinced.

The minute they walked through the door into Stan's office, Doug knew something big was afoot. Sitting with Stan at his long table he used for staff briefings was Cactus Jack Porterhouse, one of the owners of the station and Elaine Parson's cowboy sugar-daddy. Doug and Wes knew how to work the system and you never show your real face at impromptu meetings. You always wear your biggest smile and confident face like you don't know why they might call you in, but you'll bet it's for praise or something good. They exchanged greetings and shook hands. Stan Norsworthy wore a genuine smile, was happy to see them, and complimented them on their work at the Daniels Ranch. Cactus Jack Porterhouse shook hands but didn't bother to smile. He was in his bad-ass, cock-sure cowboy intimidation mode. Doug could have cared less and Wes even less than Doug.

“That Daniels kid is a day-dreaming dip-shit. He ain't no real cowboy. Ain't no cowboy I know what rides a grand pea-annie to work ever' day,” Cactus Jack began the conversation like he was chewing too much tobacco, and he had to spit.

“Depends on what you call a cowboy, Mr. Porterhouse,” Doug replied respectfully. “Most cowboys I grew up with were a multi-talented group of men who could play instruments and sing,” he added, "It's not an uncommon phenomenon," he added.

“He's dangerous, I tell ya.' His ideas are way too radical. His way of life is unacceptable. It jes' won't work. Ever'body know that. We don't want our station broadcasting any more of his socialist liberal nonsense. We finally got rid of the damn democrat party and we ain't about to encourage another well-disguised form of it now. There will be no more coverage of him or his family from now on, and that's the final word from our board of directors,” the big cowboy brayed like a jackass.

“Stan?” Doug asked his boss for input.

“My hands are tied, Doug. I thought the interview and you and Wes's broadcast of the Barnyard Concert was boffo, top quality work. Ain't seen me none better out of New York or Los Angeles. You men are up for a Pulitzer for sure. However, as you men know well, big money pulls the strings around here,” Stan replied.

“But they approved it before the broadcast. Our filming and narrating the Barnyard Concert was for an Internet live streaming program not covered by the same rules as broadcast journalism. We drove most of the night to get back, and we ain't had time to check the figures. How is the Billy Daniels interview polling?” Doug asked.

“Eighty-nine percent positive with an overwhelming volume of folks wanting to know when the next broadcast from the Daniels ranch will be,” Stan said and smiled at the scowl on Cactus Jack Porterhouse's face.

“Considering a point or two for polling error, what you're telling me is, damn near ninety percent of the American public approved and only ten percent disapproved?” Doug asked.

“No, I'm telling you the polls were international – not just the U.S. People from all over the damn world found your broadcast much to their liking. I will have to say, the figures are startlingly accurate within one hundredth of one percent error rate. The response has been that dramatic. I hope you realize what them figures means for you and Wes Taylor's future no matter what our station decides,” Stan said like a wise father to his sons.

“We can go anywhere and name our price?” Doug asked cautiously.

“Exactly, and I don't care what Mr. Porterhouse's thoughts are on the subject, I thought it was a work of genius,” Stanley Norsworthy said, “and it's worth my job to tell you men that,” he added boldly.

“Harrumph! Balderdash, and nonsense! You won't lose your job for your flawed opinions, Norsworthy. We don't give a fuck what you think or how you feel about it, but you damn well won't broadcast no more of that foul brand of pseudo-liberal nonsense what ain't nothing but pure garbage,” Cactus Jack said.

“I haven't had time to tell you, me and Wes have received offers from three major networks and four stations supporting our work at considerably higher salaries. We ain't made up our minds yet and wouldn't until we talked with you, but remember, Mr. Porterhouse, unfortunately for you, Elaine Parsons goes with us. She's still under contract to me,” Doug said and smiled sweetly like he was holding a trump card.

“Yes, well, we're ready to buy Miss Parsons' contract. Me and my partners will make you an offer of three hundred thousand for Parson,” Cactus Jack said.

Doug felt Wes's boot gently knock into his under the table and quickly moved it away like he was encouraging his boss to jump at the figure. Doug turned to look at Wes, winked, and got a sardonic grin on his face. He began to shake his head in disbelief any sane man would offer him such a ridiculous price for Little Miss Bitch's contract. Before he could accept, Cactus Jack saw Doug shaking his head and took it to mean he would never entertain such a low-ball offer. “Oh, all right! We ain't gonna' haggle none with you, Quilty. We'll pay you five-hundred thousand for Parsons contract but not a penny more!” the dumb cowboy with a big hard-on for his little heifer exclaimed.

“Done and done! You got chore'self a deal, Cowboy!” Doug exclaimed, stood, spit in the palm of his hand and watched the big cowboy spit in his own hand. They reached across the table and shook each other's hand to seal the deal. “You get me a certified cashier's check for five hundred thousand, and I'll gladly sign over my interest in Parsons to you, sir. Good to do business with such a fine, knowledgeable gentleman who may be a conservative prig but knows good horseflesh when he sees it. I can't fault a man for that,” Doug Quilty said. Porterhouse didn't have a clue what a 'prig' was. He'd been called worse, but with his money he didn't give a shit. He got what he wanted. He now owned his little filly for himself. Five hundred thousand for Parson was a drop in the bucket for Porterhouse. He spent that much to wine and dine his rich friends in one evening.

Doug and Wes spent the morning with their secretary dictating letters of resignation from their jobs at the station. They gave the standard two week period notice which would perfectly coincide with the end of the monthly pay period for July. They both requested cashier's checks for stocks and shares they bought into the station every year they worked there as a retirement hedge. They figured they would rather invest their money in the new Grange Credit Unions Billy was founding. They knew beyond a doubt their money would be safer with the Daniels family than it would be remaining in the hands of the station.

Stanley Norsworthy almost shed tears when he got Doug and Wes's notice of resignation, but he knew Cactus Jack Porterhouse offended them deeply. They had nowhere else to go if they stayed at the station in Houston. They would constantly be censored and told what they could report and what they couldn't. Fortunately for Doug and Wes, they stumbled onto perhaps the greatest story in human history. They skyrocketed to fame in less than a month's time. Their names became household words, and they were ready to ride the crest of a great wave the size of a monster tsunami.

* * * * * * *
Bubba was busy until noon at his ranch in meetings with his top ranch hands and his growing band of watchers. Several more joined his original group who had no names but responded to numbers Bubba gave them. He learned from Bubba's Brute, numbers didn't count as names. They wouldn't get a name until the person they decided to protect gave him their name. The numbered watchers fit right in with Bubba's slaves and everyone got along famously. Bubba's ranch was pulling out ahead of the other ranches, and he was bringing the Hickson ranch along with his. He planned to gather Earl as soon as he had his grand opening and no longer had to wear his plug so Bubba could show him the improvements and Earl could spend some quality time with his mother.

Bubba and his posse healed Mrs. Hickson and refurbished her to where she was getting around fine and could participate in some of the decisions made for the ranch. One of the ranch hands drove her into the small town a couple of times a week to shop in the local food mart. Bubba gave her a food allowance and opened her a checking account to deposit her part of any profits the ranch made. She couldn't have been more happy with Bubba and apologized to him several times about the bad things she said about him when Earl got into trouble. She told Bubba she came to look upon him as her second son. It touched the big cowboy deeply. Bubba gave her a big hug and a kiss on her cheek.

Bubba was busy from sunup to sundown and didn't have a minute to himself. He grabbed food where he could and decided he might hire some older, retired ranch cook. He interview several but never contracted with one to cook a meal for him yet. While his cowboy ramrods were sharp and carried out his instructions to the letter, Bubba was having problems juggling all the projects he had going on. The last time Hoss and Doug Dewberry came to his ranch before they drove him, Jack, and Grover to the Daniels ranch, he showed the two delivery men the many different projects he had going on, and they marveled he could keep track of everything. He decided he needed a project manager like Jethro Quince and made a mental note to look for one.

That afternoon Bubba called Doug Dewberry's number to set up an appointment for him to come by or transport to check out their ranch and bunkhouse facilities on behalf of the Grange. Doug and Hoss were on a delivery of furniture run, but stopped by a barbecue place on the way for a bite to eat. They just got their food and sat down to eat when Doug's phone rang. He recognized the number. “Jesus Christ! It's Bubba calling me! What'll I do?” Doug asked in a panic.

“Calm down, Little Brother, you can handle this. Don't let your emotions rule your reason, Son. Talk to the man just like you always do. Don't let on anything happened, and you'll do fine,” Hoss encouraged his cousin.

Without further ado Doug pressed the receive button and spoke, “Hey, Bubba, how's it going?” he asked brightly.

“Frantic! One damn thing after another! Chasing my tail like an old hound dog. I need me a manager. I'm calling to set up an appointment to drive over to you and Hoss's ranch and take a look at your facilities as the final part of your application to join the grange. Will this e'nin be okay after you men drive home from work?” Bubba asked.

“Don't see why not, Bubba, but we never know exactly what time we're gonna' get off work. Can I call you after we get home. If you don't want to take the time to drive up here, we got us a Geo-position application on our cell phones. I could give you the coordinates to our old barn,” Doug said.

“I think, for the first time, I'd like to drive up there. I need to get away from here anyway, and I think a drive from here to Katemcy might do wonders for me. Will it be all right if I bring Grover and Jack along wiff' me for company?” Bubba asked.

“Sure. Why don't you men plan on coming for supper, and we'll pick up some Cooper's barbecue and fixings for a nice meal?” Doug asked.

“Wouldn't wanna' put you to no trouble, Son,” Bubba said and Doug's heart almost melted and ran down into his cowboy boots from hearing Bubba call him 'son.'

“Hell, Bubba, we done ate enough meals at your and the Daniels place. It would be a pleasure for us to have a chance to reciprocate,” Doug said firmly.

“All right then. Gimme' a call when you get home, and we'll drive out shortly after,” Bubba said.

“That'll be fine, Bubba,” Doug replied.

“How you feeling, Son? I hear'd tell you's under the weather and had to leave early the other day?” Bubba asked.

“Allergies, Bubba. Broom-weed, and bee-brush is in bloom, and I done run out of my medication. I usually carry it in the truck with me everywhere. We picked up some at Walmart over the weekend, and I'm back in the saddle again,” Doug said and chuckled.

“Good to hear you're better. Don't want nothing happening to my buddy,” Bubba said.

They said their 'goodbyes' and signed off. Doug let out a big sigh and sat for a minute watching Hoss eat his sandwich. The big cowboy looked up and grinned from ear to ear. “You were cool, Little Brother. You handled it perfectly. The allergy bit was inspired. You don't never get allergies until the cedars start to bloom in late October or early December. I done told ju' you could handle him. You still can. I got faith in you, Doug. You's a Dewberry, Boy, and don't chu' never forget it!” Hoss exclaimed and smiled real big. “So maybe we should buy the barbecue now and heat it up after we get home?” he asked.

“I think it might be a good idea. We both like barbecue enough to have it twice in one day,” Doug replied. “He acted like he was the same old Bubba and called me his 'son' and his 'buddy,'” Doug added.

“I still think there might be more – or less – to Bubba's relationship with Ernest Pennywise. We don't know the whole story. There was something mighty strange about it. It just didn't sit-right with me, but I didn't have time to ask Jack or Grover. I knew I had to get you out of there before you fell apart at the seams. I might be able to get Grover off by his'self this e'nin and ask him what he knows. Him and Jack are pretty faithful to their big cowboy buddy. He might not tell me a lot, but I'll do my best to feel him out. In the meantime, just be yourself. Don't ask no questions about Mr. Pennywise and Bubba's relationship. Little bits and pieces will fall out. People can't help talk about themselves and those they love. Jack will tell me if I'm on the right track,” Hoss said.

“Don't know what I'd do without you, Hoss, but I don't never want to find out neither,” Doug said quietly.

“We'll always be within each other's sphere of confluence, Little Brother. I don't like to think about us being too far apart neither, but if you wanna' find yourself a good husband, I want him to be the best for you. I don't wanna' have to come straighten him out or strum his head like a banjo to get him to treat you right,” Hoss said and grinned real big.

“And knowing you, I ain't got me no doubt it's just what you'd do, too!” Doug exclaimed and laughed.

“Damn right, I would!” Hoss said and winked at his beloved cousin.

“Do you think it will work out for you and Jack McCormack?” Doug asked.

“Oh, yeah! H'it's just a matter of time. Once't I take him for a ride on my old 'Mack,' he'll be putty in my hands. He won't never be able to say 'no' to me. I'll ride him with old Mack so sweetly, he'll think he's done died and went to buckaroo heaven,” Hoss bragged.

“God, how I wish I had your cowboy confidence, Big Brother,” Doug said and laughed.

“You will have soon enough, Little Brother. I got me a feel'n h'it ain't over between you and Bubba Kirkendall. Hell, you ain't even got started. Trust your old cousin. You got as much going for you, maybe more, than that tiny little money-runt. Why, he ain't even a good mouthful. I'll say it again, they's something mighty strange about that relationship. They's a key we don't know about,” Hoss encouraged him.

“You know what, Brother?” Doug asked as they approached the ranch where they were making their final delivery for the day.

“What, Son?” Hoss asked in reply.

“I'm really looking forward to seeing Bubba this evening,” Doug replied.

“Good for you, Cowboy. Now that's my little brother, the cousin I know and love, what I done grow'd up with!” Hoss exclaimed, and they share a laugh.

* * * * * * *
By the time they returned the delivery truck to the store, got into their truck, made a quick stop at the Super S grocery store, and drove down to their ranch at Katemcy, it was going on six o'clock. Doug punched Bubba's number about a mile before the turn-off to their ranch. “Hey, Bubba, it's Doug Dewberry calling. We's about five minutes to our front gate. Ya'll come on up. You know how to get here?” Doug asked.

“Grover said he's been to your place before, years ago, when he's a young man to do some fishing in the creek with with Hoss's folks. Said he found a blue topaz down there he's still got. If we get lost we'll give a holler, but knowing that old blood hound, we'll find it,” Bubba said and laughed. Doug laughed, and they signed off.

* * * * * * *
Grover remembered exactly where the turn off was to the Dewberry ranch and Bubba drove into the ranch compound. Two older mixed-heritage cow dogs came out to greet them. They were friendly and almost smothered the men with their love. The men made over them and told them what handsome dogs they were. Doug and Hoss came out to greet them. After Bubba shook hands with Doug he pulled him into a bear-hug and stole a kiss. Doug responded in kind but didn't over-do. His response was enough to be well-met, friendly, and respectful.

Bubba suggested they take them on a quick tour before they the lost the light of evening and go into the house to sit down for supper. Hoss told everyone to climb into their open-air hunting scoot-about and gave them a trip around the ranch. Grover told Bubba and Jack the old Dewberry ranch was one of the prettiest places in the county and had a couple of creeks run through it which were always running from deep springs. Grover said some of the biggest and best catfishes were caught in that creek. It was a beautiful setting and everyone enjoyed the tour, including the pups. Wherever Hoss and Doug went in the scoot-about the dogs would jump in for a ride.

They stopped at the two old barns on the property which suffered from neglect for years but were still being used and serviceable. The final stop was to inspect the bunkhouse. It was in about the same condition as the rest of the bunkhouses in the other counties. It wasn't great, but it was serviceable. With minimal effort it could easily be brought up to Grange standards. Bubba thought it was good enough for a group of about thirty men to live and work out of, but they might have to bunk it in the better of the two old barns until they did a remodel of the bunkhouse to make it more livable and comfortable. Since it was still the middle of summer Bubba figured they could have it finished before the cold weather set in.

Bubba was enthused about it and explained any upgrades, heating, cook stoves, or appliances would be paid for out of Grange funds, so nothing had to come out of the Dewberry's pockets. He already took Doug and Hoss on a tour of the Daniels oldest bunkhouse what the Irin cowboy-slaves refurbished and sectioned off with individual two man bunks, upper and lower, and small dressing cabinets with wooden lockers where they could keep their clothes. Bubba further explained the wood and tools to create the same for the Dewberry's would also be paid for out of Grange funds. Bubba asked if they might want another, more modern bunkhouse for thirty more Irin slaves? Hoss and Doug told him they'd like to think about it and see how the first thirty work out. That was fine with Bubba.

Hoss let Doug do most of the talking and negotiating with Bubba. Doug was better educated, knew more words and used them better than his big cowboy cousin. Because Hoss was shy a good education, he made damn sure his cousin learned everything he could. Doug was a smart, talented, together, young cowboy. The men talked more business over dinner and by the time it came to coffee and dessert, they understood everything there was to know about how the Grange operated and how the final profits would be split.

Doug asked many intelligent questions and Hoss was proud of him. He didn't shy away from Bubba nor did he gush or over-play his hand. He was the same old Doug who Bubba first met several months before when the men delivered furniture to his ranch. They still had a couple of deliveries; special orders Jack insisted be delivered after the store received shipment. Bubba, Jack, and Hoss went off into the comfortable living area of the ranch house to talk some more and Doug stayed in the kitchen to clean up. Grover stayed with him to give him a hand.

“You're handling yourself exceptionally well, Son. It's good to see you didn't let the day over to the Daniels Ranch set you back. My heart and empathy went out to you when I watched you leave with your cousin,” Grover said as he picked up a dishtowel and began to dry the dishes.

Doug rinsed the soap from his hands, grabbed a towel, dried them, threw his arms around Grover's neck, and gave him a quick kiss on the mouth. “Thanks, Grover, for your understanding words. You're one of the kindest, most thoughtful, noble cowboys I ever done had the good fortune to meet,” Doug said in thanks for Grover's understanding words.

“Sweet Jesus, if I agree, will it get me another one a them sweet buckaroo kisses, Son?” Grover asked and laughed.

“You can have all the kisses from me you can handle, Granddad. Besides, you don't look like no granddad no more. You's a fine looking, stalwart, mature, well-mannered, educated, and intelligent cowboy. Any man worth the name would be crazy not to share a bed with you,” Doug said, “You call me and come over anytime, and I'll take you to my bedroom, lock the door, and suck your dick until your eyes pop out or your head caves in. I'll offer up my clean ass for to you to fuck until the chickens come home to roost,” Doug said and smiled.

Grover bent over with laughter. He wasn't expecting such a positive cowboy-hyperbolic response from the handsome young man.

“I'm serious, Granddad! My young ass is just going to waste here on this ranch, and I'd be downright proud to share it with you anytime yore' itch needs to scratch my itch and mine itches all the damn time,” Doug hit him again with a volley of eye-opening words.

“Then there's Bubba,” Grover said.

“Then there's Bubba,” Doug replied repeating his words.

“I could never take Bubba's place in your heart, Cowboy. I wouldn't even know how to try,” Grover said quietly as he dried another plate.

“I wouldn't expect you to try to be anything other than yourself, Grover; howsomever, we could have us some damn good times together. I'll just bet you could teach this young tenderfoot a cowboy trick or two in bed,” Doug said and rinsed another glass.

When they finished the dishes Doug took Grover by the hand and led him to an unused apartment off the kitchen which still had the old furniture and a fine large bed in perfect condition. Doug kissed Grover again passionately, dropped to his knees, undid the old cowboy's rodeo belt buckle, unzipped his Wrangles, and pulled them down around his boot tops. He attacked Grover's fine, mature cowboy cock like a hungry dog on a delicious bone and didn't stop until Grover sighed deeply, took several deep breaths, and called out to Doug. “Oh, Son, you got me! You got me good, Boy. I'm there! I'm a' gonna' shoot, Boy! Stop if you don't wanna' catch me, Son!” Grover cried softly.

Grover's words made Doug double his effort until he felt Grover's rock hard cowboy cock began to explode into his mouth. Mature cowboy come is like aged sweet white wine. It always satisfies and is never overpowering. So it was with Grover. Doug drank him down like he was the fount of many blessings and caused him to exclaim, “Hosanna!”

Grover answered, “Hosanna, in the highest!”

Doug stood and the men joined in an embrace and another passionate kiss, “There, Granddad, do you believe me now?” Doug asked.

“I'll call for an appointment later in the week, Son,” Grover promised.

“See that you do, or I'll be on my phone calling you. A good cowboy-granddad worth his salt won't never let his grandson down!” Doug said firmly.

“You have your grandpa's word, Son,” Grover said and stole another kiss from Douglas Dewberry. “And one more thing, Son, don't let this thing between Bubba and Ernest Pennywise knock you out of the running. I can't tell you too much right now, but I promise I will later. You know Bubba's relationship with his surrogate pa, Orville Higginbothem?” Grover asked.

“Yes, sir, Bubba thinks on Orville as his dad, but he's also his slave,” Doug replied.

“That's right. Just think on Ernest Pennywise in a similar way and everything will be fine. Trust me,” Grover urged the young cowboy.

“If a cowboy can't trust his Grampa, who can he trust?” Doug asked, took Grover into his arms and they shared another goodly kiss.

* * * * * * *
“Where you men been? We's about ready to form a posse and come looking for you,” Hoss asked.

“We finished the dishes and sat down to have another cup of coffee and shared the last dessert together. I don't know what it is, but dessert always seems to taste sweeter when you share it with someone you come to love and look upon as family. Ain't that right, Grampa?” Doug asked and winked at Grover.

“Ain't nothing better than sharing a sweet treat with your grandson,” Grover agreed and everyone laughed.

“God damn it! I been pondering on some'um all damn day and gnawed heavy on it this afternoon. I even mentioned it to you earlier in the day, Doug. I'm so frick'n stupid sometimes I can't see the fuck'n forest for the trees. It just come to me. I done seen the tree. Fuck the forest! You's exactly what I need, Doug!” Bubba exclaimed. The rest of the men looked at Bubba like he was daft and held their breath.

“Uhh – I don't think I understand, sir. Could you be a bit more specific?” Doug asked.

“Remember me telling you on the phone this morning I need a manager?” Bubba asked.

“Yes, sir, I remember you were complaining about everything coming at you at once and you needed a manager,” Doug replied.

“I need you to become my business manager, Son. I know you got the smarts and the organizational ability. They way you handled yore'self this e'nin in a business like manner told me you got skills, and this damn house weren't organized and put together by that big cowboy over there,” Bubba said pointing to Hoss. Everyone laughed.

“Naw, Sir. My big bro pretty much gimme' the reins when it come to fix'n up the house. We both wanted antique fine western stuff, and I think we done pretty good on a limited budget. We scoured yard sales and flea markets for years collecting this junk,” Doug said.

“Junk my ass!” Jack exclaimed, “This place is put together with a good deal of thought, talent, interest, and considerable taste for comfort. Any cowboy worth the name would be comfortable living here,” Jack said.

“Jack's right, Son. I seen this place when it was just Hoss's parent's, and h'it t'weren't near this nice,” Grover added his approval.

“I want you to come work for me, Doug. I'll pay you four thousand per month for the first year, and if you work out like I think you will, we'll talk about a raise after that,” Bubba said.

“Hell fire, Brother! Why didn't you offer me the job?” Jack exclaimed, “Shit! There's many months I don't make that much,” he lamented and laughed.

“Me neither! Fuck me in the butt! Can I be your assistant's assistant for half that?” Grover asked and everyone laughed.

“Aww, can-it you two! I got other things in mind for you guys what you don't even know about yet. Master Billy and me done discussed a plan, and he's given me the go-ahead to implement it. I already done got the money set aside to hire you men for another job right up yore' fine alleys,” Bubba said and grinned.

“Your offer sounds wonderful, Master Bubba, but I can't quit my job with the furniture store and leave my brother alone. We's a team. We know each other, and we know how to be safe. Working with somebody else what don't give a damn about him, he might get hurt, and I don't want that on my conscience, sir,” Douglas replied.

“Wait a minute, Little Brother, listen to your big brother. Before you reject Master Bubba's offer, I got me some words to say about the matter. It's sweet of you to think about me and my health, but I'm a big boy now, and I can handle myself. If I understand it correctly, we're gonna' have another four thousand a month coming from the Grange the first of next month if we're approved by Master Bubba. I could be wrong, but I got the distinct impression we done all ready passed his inspection. Am I right, Master Bubba?” Hoss asked.

“Amen! You men passed with flying colors. Testify, Brother!” Bubba pounded his fist like an old time preacher. “What's you men's main concern?” Bubba asked.

“Paying off our truck and transportation for Doug if he's gonna' work in Mason and me in Brady,” Hoss replied.

“How much are you men making delivering furniture?” Bubba asked.

“We get paid minimum wage which ain't been raised in fifty years or more. We get seven-fifty an hour, but we don't always work eight hours. We only get paid for our hours on the time clock. We punch out before delivery and punch in after we return. We don't get paid for our time loading from the store. Together, after taxes we average about two thousand a month. To be honest, we don't live too high on the hog, sir. If Doug was to consider your job offer, and I started to work the ranch full time supported by the money we get from the Grange we'd have four times the money we got coming in now. Can you hold out until the first of August for Doug to start working for you, Master Bubba?” Hoss asked.

“Of course I can. I got two old trucks. My old truck and my brother Earl's old truck. I'm buying me a new one in the next two weeks. I wouldn't get nothing for them as a trade-ins. Doug can have either one he wants to drive back and forth to Mason. I'll give him the registration. I plan on buying my brother a new truck as a surprise when he graduates from being Master Billy's punishment slave. Douglas don't have to drive to and from Mason if'n he don't want to. He can leave his truck at my place and gate from your barn to mine. He'll save a lot of money on gas. I'll even make it sweeter for you men. Hoss, you come to work for me, too, as my strong right-arm, and all-round man-Friday, project manager, and I'll pay you the same salary I plan to pay your little brother,” Bubba said.

“Are you serious, Master Bubba?” Hoss asked.

“As serious as a slobbering bull in rut with a hard-on in a pasture of fresh heifers,” Bubba said.

“I'd say that was downright serious enough, Son,” Grover said, slapped his knee, and roared with laughter.

“I don't know what to say, sir,” Hoss said and almost broke into tears.

“I know what to say!” Douglas spoke firmly, “My brother and I would be proud and honored to accept your generous and kind offer to come work for you, Master Bubba. We will report to you at eight o'clock the morning of August first, bright eyed and bushy tailed,” Doug accepted for both.

“What my little brother done said, Master Bubba, goes for me, too,” Hoss said humbly.

“Fine, I'll look forward to working with you gentlemen. For the first two months, I will pay you weekly to help you get on your feet financially. Then I'll direct our paymaster to pay you every two weeks to make things easier for our finance department. Welcome aboard the Grange and the Daniels/Kirkendall family, Gentlemen,” Bubba said, stuck out his hand and shook the two men's hands. Bubba couldn't help be exuberant, hugged, and stole a kiss from each man. Douglas and Hoss responded in kind.

* * * * * * *
The following day was a work day for everyone and they broke off their visit early so Doug and Hoss could get their chores done and get ready for the next day. Bubba, Jack, and Grover said their 'goodbyes,' got in Bubba's old truck, and headed back to the Kirkendall ranch. After they were on the road for a while, Bubba turned to Grover who was sitting in the middle and spoke, “What took you and that young, innocent cowboy so long in the kitchen, Grampa?” Bubba asked and grinned, “We know you weren't strum'n on the old banjo,” he added.

“As it turned out, your new business manager ain't no innocent cowboy, but you know the Cowboy Code as well as I do, Bubba Kirkendall; cowboys don't never kiss and tell,” Grover said. Jack and Bubba laughed at their older companion.

“Well, whatever happened between you, it must have been a good thing. You men came back changed, and there was a glow about you,” Bubba said.

“Yeah, Grover, it was nice to see you with a satisfied smile on your face like you was gonna' break out into song at any minute,” Jack allowed and smiled.

“Listen to my words, Master Kirkendall, it's my humble opinion you just made two of the best decisions of your young life hiring them two good men to work for you. I promise, you will never regret it. Douglas Dewberry is a good boy. He's a fine young man and a better cowboy. That's all you two yahoos need to know,” Grover said, and they didn't get anymore out of him. Neither could they get the silly smile off his face.

End of Chapter 81 ~ Seek Him What Made Them Seven Stars
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Mail to: Waddie Greywolf <[email protected]>
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