Seek Him What Made Them Seven Stars
By Waddie Greywolf

Chapter 90

“This is part of the involuntary bargain we make with the world just by being alive. We get to experience the splendor of nature, the beauty of art, the balm of love, and the sheer joy of existence, always with the knowledge that illness, injury, natural disaster, or pure evil can end it in an instant for ourselves or someone we love.” ~ Jeff Greenfield

Ox's pronouncement of his love for Bart hung in the air like a lingering fart. It was an awkward moment, to say the least. Bart was flummoxed: bewildered, confounded, and confused. He no sooner got through telling the giant beast he was leaning in the direction of forming a bond with the Colonel if asked, even toying with the idea of becoming his slave, but he wanted it to happen naturally over a course of time and out of a genuine desire to become a part of the big man's life. Bart also stressed, he wasn't interested in making any commitments until he was sure of himself and his feelings. Ox was putting the pressure on Bart by declaring his love for him. Bart didn't want to appear rude or rejecting, but it was like putting the cart before the horse. Bart got a blank look on his face and walked away from the giant beast shaking his head like he couldn't believe what he was hearing.

Ox took Bart's reaction as a rejection and got a look of hurt on his big face. “Do you think you could ever come to love me, Bart?” Ox asked quietly like he was fishing in shallow water.

“Oh, I don't know, perhaps, one day when you start living up to your half of our troth not to lie to each other,” Bart replied rather nonchalantly, took a deep breath, and let it out like a resigned sigh.

“I ain't lied to you, Bart,” Ox said strongly.

“The Hell you ain't! Lemme' see if I understand our situation. Let me explain it to you the way I see it so's there won't be no misunderstanding between us. Feel free to jump in any-wheres if this dumb cowboy ain't make'n no sense. You're asking if I could love an Irin-Grigori-human hybrid who in a former life lived as a cowboy in the Hill Country, rescued an innocent babe from an outlaw-kidnapper, and decided to raise the boy-child himself, who, by-the-way, was no blood kin to the infant? He denied the natural development of his own life to take responsibility for a small innocent life-form to insure the child grew into a fine man who became a cowboy, a war-hero to his nation, and an all around damn good human. The man what raised the child in question is somehow granted another go round at life as a gift and a reward from a highly advanced race of beings for his benevolence, compassion, and selflessness only this time he finds himself inside the body of a huge hyper-masculine, Watcher-Bigfoot Beast. His reward, is to link-up with the man he raised, to become his bonded slave, companion, and Grigori-Warrior-Protector as a major player in the boy's new family. Having discovered these things, my answer is, what's not to love? But before you answer, when did you plan to tell me the truth about the lie you're living right now, at this very moment?” Bart asked.

“I've been with the Colonel every minute of the day, so I know he didn't tell you. How could you know these things?” Ox demanded.

“I tried to tell you before, but you brushed me off and ignored me like I was a silly dreamer. Obviously you ain't seen the brief video the highest leader of the Irin worlds provided Master Billy about the beginnings of the Colonel's life and how he came to live with his old man, Baug Heiffernablaupt. In less than an hour, it shows everything from the saddle-tramp outlaw-cowboy stealing little Oran Augustus Daniels from his play-pen he was sharing with his twin brother Daws Butler Daniels and bringing him to Baug's ranch,” Bart said.

Ox looked stunned. His eyes were flashing from gold flecks to red like he was about to panic, “You's shit'n me, Cowboy!” the great beast said firmly holding Bart away from him to look into his eyes for any sign of deceit.

“How else would I know these things? I suspected as much last night, and tried to give you a chance to tell me the truth, but you didn't. Your speech patterns, your use of perfect cowboy lingo, the hyperbolic bullshit you sling, the way you walk; all them things gave you away. You don't walk like the average Watcher-Protector what leans forward with a rolling-gate. You remind me of the famous Robert Crumb cartoon from the sixties “Keep on trucking.” You throw your hips forward and your shoulder's back like a cocky cowboy what's proud of his tackle and wants to share his good fortune with the world. You sling your feet out before you like you were born wear'n a heavy pair of buckaroo boots and a tight pair of Wranglers what showcases your pride; only your junk is covered with fur; nevertheless, old habits die hard,” Bart said and grinned like he was mischievously enjoying pulling the big beast's crank.

Bart continued, “It's elementary, my Dear Watson! After watching the video, and having it fresh in my mind, I only needed to be around you for about thirty minutes before I began to get suspicious you weren't no average Grigori Watcher-Protector. Nobody else in the Daniels family was ever gifted his own special Watcher-Protector from a potentate on another world. It was only a matter of putting the pieces together to figure out who's who inside that gigantic Goldilocks Gorilla suit. Ya' need more? The way the Colonel took to you like lint on wool, like you two was old friends and bosom buddies without asking nary a question about who or why you were here and for what purpose? The only solution to that conundrum was, Colonel Hank already knew you from his past. He not only knew you, he knew you well. Your auras bend and flow into and out of one another like you share a great love for each other, and Master Hank calling you 'Fur Ball,' 'Fuzzy britches,' and 'Fuzz Nuts' ain't no nasty palaver from an ignorant cowboy what's a species racist; they were secret names of affection the Colonel used to call you in your past life because your other body, as Baug, was so big and hairy. You're a bit more hairy now, but as they say, if'n the boot fits, wear it!” Bart finished and smiled.

Ox placed his big paws on the young cowboy's shoulders and held Bart away from him looking into his eyes. He saw hurt and anger. Bart stopped smiling, dropped his eyes, and looked down to avoid the big beast's probing eyes. “You sound angry. I swear on the name of some unknown god, it t'weren't what I was hoping for,” Ox said somewhat dejected.

Bart hesitated for a moment, just long enough for the Colonel to walk out of the head while zipping up his Wranglers. “You can't put the man on the spot like that, Baug, without expecting a reaction. You's try'n to put the damn cart before the horse. You also should never underestimate the intelligence of an enhanced Cowboy-Angel nor the enhanced hearing abilities of your Cowboy-Master. The young man ain't angry with you. He's just upset and confused. He's got a right to be. Draw in your hooks, Beast! He wants to love bow'fus if we'll let him, but he's trying to tell you he's pissed and hurt because you already done went and broke your promise to him about not lying to each other. You're pushing way too hard and too fast. Not a winsome trait in a would be lover; especially, one your size. Bart was willing to overlook it until you backed him into a corner. Besides, it ain't up to you to be play'n no match maker for me. You would never pass muster as Dolly Levi. Lord help me, we'd never find a dress big enough for you no ways. You'd look like Robert Preston in drag. You only have one person to love and to please, my handsome beast, and that's yore' master. If you love my mate equally, that's a plus, but you don't get to say who I choose.   

“We got to make us some ground rules in this relationship, and since I'm gonna' be the Big Kahoona in this stage of our lives together, I will be the one to steer this ship. Don't mean I won't listen to grievances nor will I be inconsiderate, but my word will be final on a subject. Granted you were my pa in your last life, and I lived by your rules; however, you ain't the boss here. You're welcome to come aboard as a major part and player in my new family. I'm glad to have you, but I will be the one in charge – not you. I lived the first three decades of my life under your roof and respected you and your ways. Now, however difficult it might seem for you to adjust, I expect the same courtesy from you.

The Colonel continued, “Bart and I already done had us a good talk about a possible relationship between us the night before you got here, and I think we come to an easy understanding. We agreed we wouldn't rush into anything until we got some road under us and laid down some tracks. Until we share some life with each other, we won't even consider sitting down and talking about the future and what we both might hope to expect. We's to the stage of exchanging a fine gentlemanly kiss before bed and Bart's been kind enough to cuddle wiff' me and hold me in his strong young arms. That young cowboy's generosity of spirit is a damn sight more love'n than I got in the last thirty years, and I very much appreciate his empathy and understanding.

“I was feeling particularly lonely and a mite down the other e'nin, and he was gracious enough to indulge me to share the comfort of his capable arms. I ain't asked for more, and I won't until Bart's ready, and we're in agreement. Even though I got me a fine new penis and a set of balls what would make the biggest bull cry with envy, I ain't no sex starved crazy hound-dog what can't control his body and feel like I have to push my attentions onto another when they might not be ready for it. Love is either won or given freely. It ain't taken. Besides, Bart and me, we's both virgins to male sex, and I think we mutually agreed, should we decide to make the beast with two backs, we want to bring to the banquet the best we got to offer each other.

"From this point on, there will be no more talk about relationships among my staff. I will expect you to work and live together with me in harmony. If you have a certain admiration for each other, more's the better. Likewise, there will be no more talk of Bart becoming my slave, but if he thinks it's something he would like as an addendum to our previous conversation, and he would be comfortable with the concept, we will explore the possibility together. Then we will discuss it and and reach a mutual understanding. You will not have a vote or a say in what we choose or choose not to do. Do I make myself clear without sounding like a tin-pot dictator?” Hank asked as gently as he could put it while strongly driving his point home.

“Yes, sir, Master Hank, my apologies to your young escort and to you sir. I'm overstepping my bounds. I'm a fortunate beast to be your slave and share your relationship with a fine young man as talented and bright as Mr. Langstrom. There is no excuse for my insolence or presumption Bart might love me in return. Like everything else in life, love is earned over a period of time, and one blowjob does not guarantee a permanent bond. It only makes for a hungry beast who wants more of a good thing but ain't quite yet learned the same strong patience you have developed over the years. I'm a clumsy beast rushing in where Cowboy-Angels are more likely to tread lightly,” Ox said.   

“So you say, my good beast; however, don't over do on the humility gambit. You will not be required to wear the bow-of-shame because of your overwrought moment of divulging your bro-crush for our cowboy.* Love, or what we like to think of as love, can cause a man to do some crazy things. Lord knows I'm a living testament to how misguided and insane the idea of loving someone can cause a man, or beast, to make the consummate fool of themselves. I was such an insecure and mislead young man to sacrifice a wonderful part of my penis because I thought I was marrying a women above my station in life, and it was the price I must pay to bring myself to her level. To my great regret, I learned no woman is worth the price her family required. I also learned the idea of levels in society are myths created by the obscenely wealthy or the radically pious. Neither has any legitimate place in a well balanced society.

“Since we share that trait together – I'm taking the cowards way out and claiming the obvious -- I must have learned it from my pa. Therefore, I'm blaming you for my mistakes!” Hank exclaimed, slapped his knee, and laughed, “Neither, do I want to blow this whole thing out of proportion. I must take into consideration, you had few, if any, occasions for release in your past life due to your devotion and dedication to me. Now, you're probably feeling insecure and trying to make up for lost time or grasping for straws; however, I'm bet'n if you play your cards right, perhaps a bit more subtly, you will have all the physical love or mental stroking you desire or can handle. Just be forthright and honest with your master, and for as long as Bart chooses to be with us, I expect you to live up to your troth with him. I assure you your secret will be safe with us. It's the people we tell it to we have to be careful about,” the Colonel said seriously, winked at Bart, then doubled over with laughter. Bart couldn't contain himself and laughed, too.

“If young Master Bart has figured out who I was from a video supplied by the Irin, there's little doubt others have as well,” Ox lamented.

“I wouldn't worry about it, but if confronted, I would urge you to be open and honest. I don't care what them advanced critters on them other worlds told you, they don't live among us and while we will work to appease them for the most part, there are some things we must have control over and you and your secret is one of them. We don't have to have sandwich boards made up advertising the new Oran's Oxygen is the late Baug Heiffernablaupt but neither should we deny it if confronted with the facts,” the Colonel said.

Hank didn't have a clue, in his moment of compassion for his surrogate pa and his equal concern and gentle admiration for Bart's cunning, bought him a major chunk of real estate in the young cowboy's heart. Bart fell in love with the big Jar-head Colonel.

“Is there a chance I might view the video Master Bart was speaking of, Master?” Ox asked.

“Of course there is,” Bart spoke up, “I'll take you and our master to a small video room with a large screen and we can watch it together before supper. Until then, I think your suggestion to join the other men in the gym and put ourselves through some exercises would be a healthy thing to do and would certainly go a long way to build our master's stamina,” Bart said, “And to back our master's comments, my handsome beast, I will leave you with this thought: You live up to your commitment to me, and I will live up to my commitment to you. As the Colonel said, if you play your cards right, I think you'll find I'm an equal opportunity lover,” Bart added and smiled at Ox.
 
“There you go, Fuzzy Britches! If our cowboy cares enough about you to let you off the hook, you's still in the game. You ain't got chore'self nothing to worry about,” Hank said and smiled.

* * * * * * *
The gym was packed with Billy's Warriors including the Hanz and Franz pump-em-up crowd. They were far more serious with their workouts than the average gym goers in most athletic flex-and-chatter institutions. It seemed like every other man wore a slave harness, and it certainly didn't go unnoticed by the Colonel and his posse. Ox was wrong about how he thought his new master might respond to the several men who were slaves to their master/lovers and working out in their slave attire, but he did notice Bart was considerably more taken with the idea than the Colonel. The Colonel was yet to developed his ability to see auras, but Bart could see them and was wowed by the way the men's auras ebbed and flowed into one another.

After a couple of hours of working out, the men and the great beast showered and left the gym to get ready for supper, but they still had a couple of hours to kill before the first bell rang. They were having a late afternoon snack of Texas Tea and Hosanna Cakes in the main dining hall with Deek and Bafra. Bart suggested they show Ox the video the Irin sent of young Oran Augustus Daniels being kidnapped, and they headed for the small viewing theater on the same floor. Deek and Bafra asked if they could come along and the Colonel encouraged them. On the way, they ran into Billy and his posse, and after greetings were exchanged, Bart told him where they were going. “Ox didn't get to see the video the Irin provided us. Since he expressed his curiosity and said he would like to see it, I didn't think you would mind if we gave him a private showing,” Bart added and smiled.

“No, not at all. He certainly should see it. We were just headed to your apartment to spend a few minutes and discuss a few things with you men before supper. Do you mind if we tag along and watch the video again, or is this a family bonding moment?” Billy asked motioning to the Colonel's complete posse.

Bart grinned and assured Billy they were welcome, but he didn't reply to the second part of his question; however, the Colonel picked up the ball like an unintentional fumble an ran with it.
 
“My faithful escort is a supreme diplomat; a trait I humbly admire in any man; especially, one of such intelligence and charm. I only wish I owned more of his down-to-Earth savvy and his compassion for those with whom I must deal. Alas, my approach has always been kill-em-all-with-kiss-my-balls-honesty and let Jesus sort 'em out. 'Subtlety' was not in my vocabulary until after I lost my cock and balls. A trauma of such personal magnitude will cause any man to reevaluate his place in the scheme of things and cause him to tart up his compassion considerably. My handsome escort is covering for me and my faux pas as head-of-household for the newly refurbished Halfablap portion of your family, but since I have come to consider the five of us, including my beloved cowboys, as a part of the greater Daniels family, our purpose for reviewing the Irin video is to include our newest family member as well, and bring him up to speed, so to speak,” the Colonel explained, raised an eyebrow, and grinned.

“We can certainly understand your reason, and I fully agree the great Oran's Oxygen should be brought on board our greater family. Neither men nor Watchers are  island unto themselves. Family is important. Families share,” Billy said.

From what Bart didn't say and what his master did say, Billy picked up on the unspoken truth, they were struggling to come to grips with Ox's former identity. Billy was almost sure Ox was the former Blaug, but as his Pa, Captain Nick, said, “The proof would be in the viewing and the giant beast's reaction.”

Billy and his posse filed into the small theater. Bubba and Ernest were with them. It was Ernie's last night with his master before he planned to gate back to Houston to continue his work with his company. He needed to get back early Saturday morning to get ready for the following week.

Most everyone in Billy's family saw the video when it was first shown to the Colonel. Hank and his new family sat on the front row. Captain Nick and Billy sat next to the Colonel. Ox sat between the Colonel and Bart. Deek and Bafra sat next to Bart. The other cowboys filled in the surrounding seats, but nobody sat directly behind the beast. Ox was so big they could neither see over nor around him. When everyone was seated, Billy nodded to Bart. “Seth, Old Friend,” Bart spoke, “several of us, including Master Billy and his posse, are gathered in the small theater. Would you be so kind to run the video we received from the Irin concerning the kidnapping and brief bio of Oran Augustus Daniels who became Colonel Hank Halfablap?” he asked.

“Certainly, Master Bart. Would you prefer HD or Holovid?” Seth asked.

“Is Holovid all right with everyone?” Bart asked, and everyone agreed. “Holovid will be fine, Seth, and thank you,” Bart replied.

“My pleasure, sir,” Seth said and the video began.

Ox was startled from the very first picture of the woman hanging out her laundry, and the two young baby boys playing in their play-pen. He was squirming in his seat like he was about to take his first ride on a roller-coaster. When the saddle tramp came into view, Baug recognized him immediately and sucked in a huge breath of air and held it, “How could they have pictures from so long ago? I didn't think it was possible so long ago. I didn't believe you, Bart. I'm sorry,” Ox said as tears began to roll down his cheeks.

Bart slipped his left arm around the big beast and felt the Colonel slipping his right arm around him. They clasped each other's arms behind Ox's back. When the saddle tramp came upon Baug, himself, Ox let out with a great groan like someone stuck an ice pick into his heart. He managed to get through the roughest part of him disarming the saddle tramp and killing him, but when it got to the part where Baug was holding the baby, Oran, and talking to him, did he breakdown. It was all the Colonel and Bart could do to console him. As the video came to an end with Baug and his young ward walking down a dirt road together with fishing poles and big-old smiles on their faces did he really let go. “Oh, Sweet Jesus, that's just too damn hard to watch! That ain't fair! That's like dragging my soul and guts out of my body and hanging 'em out to dry! Oh, Dear God, help me! How could anything hurt so bad and feel so damn good at the same time? I've always heard the saying: Be sure your sins will find you out, but I never imagined they would include sublime joy along with them,” he wailed and cried some more like his big heart would surely break.

“It's all right, Ox. You're with family who love and appreciate you,” Colonel Hank said, “However, I think it's time for you to come-out to these good folks if you want them to love and trust you. A number of them, including Master Billy and his Pa, have already figured it out and now the rest of these men will know from your reaction your connection with this video is deeply personal,” Hank said.

“You tell them who I am. That way, maybe I won't get punished by them folks on Fort Adam Lear and Retikki Prime because I broke my pledge to them,” the gentle giant said through his tears.

“The minute I agreed to accept you into my greater family and you bonded with my great uncle, we took full responsibility for your actions here on this planet. They wouldn't dare take any action against you without first taking me and the Colonel into consideration. Let it be known throughout the universe, there will be no secrets in my family which could potentially cause division among us. We are family, Ox, and we share with each other. To love us, they must love you, and to love you they must love the whole of us as a family,” Billy said.

“Hear! Hear!” shouted Tron and Nathan in unison.

“Hosanna!” shouted Randy.

“Hosanna, in the highest!” the rest responded.

“Let's try this another way,” Hank said, “How many of you men know what we're talking about, and why my slave is so upset?” he asked for a show of hands.

Every hand in the room went up, and everyone looked around to see if anyone didn't know. Meat, the former Metatron, stood in the back. “Excuse me, Gentlemen, but I want to know why in the Hell you named him Ox or Oxygen? I don't give a shit what skin he's wear'n, he ain't no Ox, he's Baug! He's the same heroic man we watched in the video!” he exclaimed loudly like he was really pissed. (Meat was not immune to cowboy speak and was trying desperately to fit in.)

“I second that, Master Meat, with the strong conscience of my heart! Who the Hell but us, his brothers, gives a fly'n rat's ass what we call him? I say his name should be Baug!” Nathan Daniels said.

“I agree with my bonded mate! Baug was and still is unique in our universe, and if them ancient critters thought enough of him to give him a second chance, he should damn-well carry the name what won him their notice!” Tron Garrett jumped up and exclaimed.

“Amen, Brother! You men got my vote!” Zeke jumped up and shouted.

“Mine, too! Loud and strong!” shouted Gabriel.

“Us boys done took us a mental vote, Master Billy. We want to know our new big brother-critter as Baug, our hero. Meat's right! He ain't no Ox, and we refused to call him by a false name even if it takes a Pooh-bear-tea-cowboy rebellion!” Pard jumped up and exclaimed. His brothers jumped up with him and roared like Lion cubs. Everyone laughed, but felt and understood the boys' passion.

Bafra stood, “We know he's Baug. If'n it t'weren't for him us buckaroos wouldn't be together today. We agree with them boys, and every man what stood up and spoke his peace. Hell, if you can make two Angels out of two old cowboys as worthless as me and my mate, it must be within your power to set it right and give him back his real name, Master Billy!” the old cowboy pleaded and his partner agreed.

Bart stood and looked at the emotionally broken giant. “I don't know's I could ever love an 'Ox' but I'm pert-damn sure I could love a beast named Baug and everything he stands for,” he said with great conviction.

Billy allow everyone to have their say and finally spoke up, “Oh, Dear Lord, just the thought of a Pooh-bear-tea-cowboy rebellion is enough to send cold chills up me spine, shiver me timbers, and bring this cowboy to his knees. I don't need any more convincing! I done heard me enough!” Billy exclaimed and everyone laughed, “Yes, I have the power and the authority to change his name, but I won't do it without conferring with his Good Master who was only trying to play by the rules by naming him 'Ox,'” Billy said.

The Colonel stood and faced the men, “Baug became my protector when I's just a wee bairn, and he ain't never stopped. I only give him that name because he told me I must never call him 'Baug' again, and I just assumed I didn't have me no other option. Now I know better, I'm afraid the popular consensus; especially our junior Cowboy-Angels' response, won me over. I concede, the bonded protector of my family you see here before you today, should be known by his previous name, Baug,” the Colonel said.  

There went up a great cowboy whoops and cheer from the gathered. “Hosanna!” shouted Bafra.

“Hosanna, in the highest!” shouted the rest.

Billy disappeared for a couple of seconds and reappeared fully fledged holding the great sword Excalibur. Ox never saw Billy winged up before and fell to his knees before him. “May I pay homage to you, Master?” he asked.

“You may, Slave,” Billy replied.

Ox kissed both of Billy's boots and remained in a kneeling position. Billy removed Excalibur from its sheath and handed the scabbard to Bart. He held the mighty sword before him, and it began to glow. Billy placed the flat blade on Ox's right shoulder and spoke. “With this mighty sword I will correct a wrong of misunderstanding. This slave before me previously known as Golden Ox, Goldilocks, Oran's Oxygen, and just plain Ox, is no more. From this time forward you shall be known as the noble Sir Baug Daniels, Protector-Warrior and Slave to his master Colonel Henry Halfablap, also recognized as Oran Augustus Daniels, and his family,” Billy said and moved the glowing sword to Baug's other shoulder and back again. He pulled the sword away and held the flat part with his left hand and the handle by his right. “If you acknowledge your new name, lean forward and kiss Excalibur, Slave,” Billy commanded. Baug complied. “It is done! Rise, Sir Baug, and embrace your master, and his family,” Billy ordered.

“Hosanna!” shouted the boys.

“Hosanna, in the highest!” echoed the men.

There were many tears shed by Baug and several of the men and boys. It was a profoundly moving moment among the Daniels family men. Baug became a symbolic hero for the young boys including those who were temporarily housed on board Captain Nick's ship. They found an empathetic old-soul cowboy inside a humongous handsome beast. Baug was the only Watcher who could speak their language. He was a lost boy himself within his big heart and understood their fears and enthusiasm. He was thrilled with the attention and held both arms full of the younger set everywhere he went. The young girls were somewhat wary of him until they found out he was as gentle as a lamb. He became an instant celebrity in the Daniels family.

Hank and Bart couldn't have been more happy for their big beast and watched him mellow from his somewhat frenetic agenda to begin taking life and his place in the greater scheme of things in a more graceful stride. It seemed like it happened instantly after Master Billy returned his old name to him. It certainly eased his need to have his love confirmed by his peers. He became more quiet and introspective but never gave up his sharp and biting wit. He could take a giant bite out of the Colonel's new shapely butt when he became a mite too pompous.

* * * * * * *   
The Colonel asked if he could remain on Captain Nick's ship as Billy's guest through the weekend. “I'm a bit concerned about the fledging of my brothers, and I've neglected them to survive on their own for so long, I have feelings of guilt and remorse. I'd like to become a better steward for them, my girls, and my new family. I'm coming along with learning to make short jumps and de-wing under my handsome escorts capable wing, but I want some time to sit under the education cloud chambers. Bart told me them chambers was the best way-to-go about learning to morph into my old face so's I won't have much trouble mustering out of the military when I return,” Hank said.

“Stay as long as you like, Uncle Gus. You're home here. You and your family have become a major part of my complete family. Perhaps a couple extra days will give you some time to consider what we should do about your ex-wife. She seems adamant she doesn't want to return to the ranch. I offer my services to act as an intermediary between you. I suggested some options to Jennifer, and she said she would discuss them with her mother,” Billy said.

“I would appreciate your help, Son. What options did you suggest?” Hank asked.

“We recently bought a large luxury apartments/condo complex in Fredericksburg in which we use the manager's apartment so my grandmother can gate to and from to shop at H.E.B. and a large Walmart there. H.E.B. is within walking distance. She takes a posse of stout cowboys with her and does a weeks shopping without the travel. We have another apartment available. We can move Ms. Wilma in there and she will be nearer to her two older daughters. Jennifer said she will help her with the move, but she wants to return here to the ranch to help out in the big house for a while until other arrangements can be made. Grandma Kate invited her, and she could use the help. If she wants to visit her mother, all she has to do is walk through a gate,” Billy explained.

“Damn, Son! Sounds like a perfect plan to me. I never considered there might be some unforeseen perks having a larger family, but I'm beginning to cotton to the idea as a right smart one,” Hank said. “With everything what's been going on here on the ship, I ain't been thinking properly. Has Jennifer contacted her sisters?” he asked.

“Yes, and they're driving up from Kerrville and Fredericksburg tomorrow with their families to visit, have dinner, and stay for the Barnyard Concert. Your oldest, Dorothy, and her family lives in Kerrville and your next youngest daughter Stefanie lives in Fredericksburg with her family,” Billy said.
   
“That's right. Oh, gees, I wonder how much Jennifer told them. Maybe I shouldn't stay around for the weekend to avoid a nasty confrontation,” Hank said.

“I don't think you need to worry, Uncle Gus. Jennifer swore her allegiance to the Daniels family and you. She's willing to cast her lot in with us, and when it comes to you, she's become like a mother tiger protecting her young. Obviously there's going to be some questions asked about Wilma's and Jennifer's refurbishments, to say nothing of your own. Your daughter Dorothy's husband is a doctor at the VA in Kerrville. He will certainly be curious, and your next oldest, Stefanie – her husband is a Dentist in Fredericksburg. He won't see a bad set of teeth on the property, and it's bound to spark his curiosity. For medical reasons, I've urged Wilma to stay in her room for the weekend. She's still gaining her strength, and it's all she can do to walk up and down the hallway right now. Jennifer suspects she's not drinking her watcher's milk because of her bizarre religious beliefs. I think you should stay the weekend. The sooner you confront your past, the sooner you'll be on the freeway to a better future,” Billy said like an old sage.

“I just wish I'd been a better family man,” the Colonel said with deep remorse like he was about to breakdown and lose it.

“Hey, Uncle Gus! No cry'n over spilt milk. According to your daughter, Jennifer, you did as much as Wilma would allow you. Jennifer stressed there was very little love which passed between the two of you, but Jennifer firmly believes h'it t'weren't your fault. She went so far as to call her mother a manipulative, cold-hearted bitch who only cared about her birth family and becoming an unquestioned matriarch to her daughters,” Billy said, “Jennifer said your other daughters gave up on her a long time ago and would only come to the ranch to visit a couple of times a year. She said they didn't like their mother preaching religion to their children the whole time they were there, but they were too intimidated by her to tell her otherwise,” Billy added.

The Colonel responded, “The temptation of freedom from Wilma and her narrow ways is too great. I lived under her domination for too many years. I had little to say in the lives of my daughters or the running of my ranch. You're right, Son. I need to stand up for myself and start looking forward to an emotionally unencumbered future where I can become the 'Bossman' of my ranch and the unquestioned head of my household. I swear on the name of some unknown god, within reason and compassion for any bonded mate I might choose, I will have as much sex as I desire and my mate can handle. I will never again allow anyone to dictate to me I must live by their severe religious austerity rationing programs and allot only one ticket to ride to have a child. In all them years I was married to that woman, we only had sex three times to have our daughters.

“The only time I asserted myself and demanded it, she yelled, screamed, and called me a barbarian rapist. Wilma told me she should have listened to her daddy and never married below her station in life. No wonder she was more than happy to hear I lost my cock and balls. May the gods forgive me, while I'm extremely grateful for a second chance, I certainly don't care to waste my new 'uncircumcised barbarian' cock on a woman who imagines herself to be of such high placement. Don't it make you wonder if Adam was circumcised? If God was perfect, he wouldn't make a mistake like that? Circumcision and the cutting of young girls are barbaric rites passed down from tribal rituals from the bronze age. Any religion which practices body mutilations is by definition 'barbaric,' No one should build a Taj Mahal or a religious shrine around something so basic as a good hot fuck. Love? Maybe, but when it comes to get-down, root'n-grunt, get-it-all-over you, hot, wonderful sex? Never!” exclaimed the Colonel firmly.
   
* * * * * * *
Jennifer talked with her mother about their future over the noon meal in her mother's room. Wilma took breakfast with the Daniels family, but she asked Jennifer if she would join her to have lunch in her room. They were providing her with watcher's milk and urged her strongly to drink it. While she tried it, and it tasted good, she couldn't get past the fact it came from a strange beast she wasn't familiar with other than hearing tales of them, and she didn't know whether her beliefs would allow such a thing. She would have to take it up with her pastor and family. Ever one to be on the safe side of her superstitions, Wilma drank as little as possible and as a result she wasn't recovering as quickly as her daughter. Jennifer knew what her mother was doing and lost all patience with her.

“So the Daniels have an apartment for me to live in?” Wilma asked her daughter.

“Not just any apartment, but one of a group of luxury apartments in Fredericksburg with two bedrooms, garage, and a private patio. You can be closer to Dorothy and Stefanie than you were at the ranch,” Jennifer said.

“Will you live in the other bedroom with me?” Wilma asked.

“No, this is where we part company, Mother. I will use the other bedroom to visit you regularly and see to you until you're more self-sufficient. I will help you gather your things from the ranch. With gates to walk through there won't be much hassle – minimal packing and easy moving furniture. Deek and Bafra and some of Billy's larger cowboys will give us a hand, but you will be on your own once I'm satisfied you can fly solo. I've been given a second chance at life and since I gave up my life to take care of you until now, I think I deserve a life of my own,” Jeniffer replied.

“That's very selfish of you, Jennifer, thinking only of yourself, but I've come to expect it from you,” Wilma laid on a guilt trip.

“Yes, I agree. It is selfish, isn't it? Any other choice brick-bats you care to toss my way, Mummy Dearest? I've lived with you long enough to expect the same from you and watched you try to manipulate everyone in our family until they don't care to have any more to do with you. Dorothy and Stefanie only come to see you once or twice a year, and I can't remember a time they stayed overnight at the ranch. They don't like you preaching to their families from the time they get there until they leave. A little of your Pentecostal ranting goes a long way, until it becomes embarrassing. I assure you, your daughters never wondered why their dad rarely came home in all those years. We knew why,” Jennifer said taking a sip of her hot tea.

“Oh, so it's all my fault. If you find my beliefs so distasteful, why did you stay so long?” Wilma asked.

“The love any sibling has for their parent, I suppose, but mostly pity because you had no one else. I watched you run everyone away. I heard the same crap come out of your mouth for so many years, I developed a hide tougher than a rhino. Your religious rants became like water off a duck's back to me. I just tuned you out and went about my business. Your suffocating vision of religion and worshiping an all powerful rigid dictator we should be deathly afraid of, just never rang true to me. There was something missing, and one day it came to me while I was sitting in one of two required Bible classes for graduation from Baylor. You and your kind worship a god who is vengeful, spiteful, genocidal, a baby killer, and such an all round psycho case, he made the myths of Satan sound like a school boy. The only thing keeping Christianity afloat is endless propaganda; without it, a heavy load of truth would sink it like a rock,” Jennifer said.

“You always had a rebellious spirit. I had to constantly rein you in to keep you under control. I should never have allowed you to go to Baylor. The Baptist are far too liberal in their thinking. Be careful what you say, Young Lady, your immortal soul is in great jeopardy of damnation. You have spoken blasphemy to your mother, but I will pray for you, Jennifer,” Wilma said condescendingly.

“Oh, Dear, save yourself the trouble,” Jennifer sighed, “You asked, Mother, and I told you the truth as I see things. I will no longer bow to your uncharitable, loveless beliefs, neither will I allow you to preach to me anymore. Over the years, I have developed my own set of beliefs, and they are much different from yours,” Jennifer replied.   

“You haven't mentioned your father. Is he all right?” Wilma asked, hoping to change the subject.

“I didn't think you wanted to hear about him. He's doing fine. He's discovered his real family, and I'm proud and happy for him," Jennifer said.

“What do you mean? That dirty old cowboy, Baug something-or-other, we had to take care of until he died? He was the ignorant old man who raised Henry from a baby? He was always so secretive about it, we could only speculate how it came about. No one, not even Henry, knew for sure. Baug was the only family Henry could claim, and he was an uncouth, uneducated, vulgar excuse for a cowboy. I was never so happy at the ranch as I was when he finally died, and I could run the ranch like it should be run,” Wilma said viciously.

“Yeah, right! You almost ran the ranch into bankruptcy. If it hadn't been for dad coming to the rescue like a Knight on a white horse, we would have lost everything, thanks to your mismanagement. At least, when Baug could still manage the ranch, we kept our heads above water. Besides, you never lifted a hand to take care of Granddad Baug. Your daughters and our ranch hands Deek and Bafra took care of him, and I promise you, we loved Baug very much. He was a much better granddad to us than your father ever was. Your dad was such a mean spirited old cuss we used to run hide from him when your family came to visit. Baug would lie to him and cover for us. We were scared to death of your dad and hated to be around him. He was the one who instilled the idea in your head, his family, including you, were very high-placed people in Texas. He always said you married a man far beneath your station in life. Tell me, Mother, do you consider the Daniels family measures up to your ideal station in life or perhaps even a little higher?” Jennifer asked and smiled.

“Well, certainly! Billy Daniels and his men are Angels. They have the wealthiest woman in the state of Texas for a permanent house guest residing in their home, and they have been close friends for years. The Redbones are scions within the social order of Texas. Zelma Redbone's two nephews are on Mr. Daniels' board of directors and the youngest works for him in another capacity. Look what that young man did for us. He has to be one of God's chosen Angels come to Earth to prepare the way for Jesus to return and bring about a new age of no-nonsense Christianity,” Wilma said without reserve.

"Just don't make the mistake of calling him the Walmart Cowboy Jesus, Mother, if you don't want to offend him," Jennifer said, rolled her eyes at her mother's response, but went on to tell her mother the complete story of how Billy and his family discovered Hank Halfablap was Billy's granddad's twin brother and her dad was christened as Oran Augustus Daniels. Jennifer was thorough telling her mother of the near miracle and how Billy proved beyond a shadow of a doubt her dad was Billy Daniels' Great-uncle. “They even have fingerprints and footprints of the baby, and they matched daddy's prints perfectly,” Jennifer said, “Oh, yes, and by the way, Billy gave his Uncle Gus Daniels a set of beautiful wings. Daddy is now one of his Cowboy-Angels. Doesn't that make you wonder if you might have misjudged him?” Jennifer asked.

There was a great gap of silence which passed between them. Wilma sat with her mouth open like she was stunned and her face grew bright red with anger. “I don't care!” she said firmly, “He was Henry Halfablap until the discovery was made, and I still refuse to have anything to do with him. He certainly has nothing to do with the coming of the chosen. He's just not good enough!” Wilma said firmly.

“I wouldn't be so sure of that, if I were you, Mother. Dad could have made it easy on himself and just let you die, but he didn't. He couldn't. I'm convinced dad truly loved you and wanted you to have a second chance with him, but hopefully, on a more equal basis as any normal man and wife might,” Jennifer said without remorse.

“Oh, so now you're calling me 'abnormal'?” Wilma asked with anger in her voice.

“Yes, you took no sacred vows. You're not a nun, Mother. You married my father – a man – a human being. You didn't marry a church. You're a housewife, and according to the information I've gathered over the years, normal couples have sex several times a week for recreational purposes, as well as having children, to share and express their physical love for each other. It may vary as they grow older, but a goodly romp in the sack with your husband on a quiet Sunday afternoon isn't going to send you to Hell. Did you enjoy the times you allowed dad to have intercourse with you so you could get pregnant with us?” Jennifer asked.

“No, I hated every minute of it, but I saw it was my duty, as a woman and his wife, to endure the humiliating degradation and discomfort to have children. A woman is not suppose to enjoy sex. I can't imagine any woman would actually enjoy having sex with a man and have his foul urinary gland forced into her body. It's women's curse for having sinned in the garden,” Wilma said with disgust.

“Oh, I don't know. I dated a football hero when I attended Baylor, and I enjoyed every time we coupled. I just lay back, relaxed, and enjoyed the ride. He was a fine lover and as big a man as daddy,” Jennifer said.

“You had sex out of wedlock? And you never got pregnant? That's an unforgivable sin,” Wilma accused her daughter.

“I was smart enough to take precautions, Mother. The only reason I did, I knew you would have a conniption fit if I got pregnant out of wedlock. I must have been a good enough partner, he asked me to marry him, but I turned him down because I was worried you wouldn't approve of him. To this day, I regret I didn't say 'yes.' He went on to become a doctor and a wealthy rancher. He has seven sons and a daughter. It makes me sad to think they might have been my sons and daughter. I always dreamed of having a large family. So from first-hand experience, I would say you have some deeply rooted psychological problems with sex,” Jeniffer said.  

“You always were your daddy's little girl. He spoiled you rotten. I managed to protect your two older sisters from his influence, but I never could control you. You idolized your father almost to an unhealthy degree. Your sisters were never so rebellious. You were my lost sheep,” Wilma said.

“That's from a woman I gave up my life for to take care of? That's the thanks I get, and you have the hubris, temerity, and unmitigated gall to ask if I'm going to continue living with you? The answer in a resounding 'No'! Enough of your warped religious bullshit is enough, Mother! I plan to see more of my dad and become a greater part of his life, in a more humanistic and socially liberal manner, and if, by the goodness of fate, I find a man who is anywhere near the image and bearing of my father, I will have his seven sons. Then, one evening while he's enjoying riding his willing filly, I'll beg him to give me a daughter.

“My father has more compassion in him than you will ever understand. Even though he realized he may never have you as his wife again, he couldn't say 'no.' He has a higher calling inside him than you or your family will ever know. It's much greater than your myths and superstitions allow. It's simply known as 'The Cowboy Way; in essence, do the right thing!” Jennifer said firmly and continued, “And furthermore, some higher beings not-unlike Archangels gathered our Granddad Baug's spirit when he died and placed his soul inside a giant Watcher-creature as a reward for having lived an unselfish life. He was sent to Earth by a greatly enhanced race of people to become a slave and protector for daddy.  

“Your daughters and our ranch hands can confirm it really happened, but we didn't understand what was going on at the time. We were there, in the room, with Baug when he passed away. Suddenly, a great light came out of nowhere and lovingly surrounded him. We stood in fear and awe, unable to move, as we watched Baug's strong light in his body rise from his chest, his mouth, and his head to conjoin with the great light. Then we heard Baug's voice tell us 'goodbye,' to love one another, not to grieve for him, and he promised he would see us again one day. The great light flew up and away and was lost to our sight. I always wondered if I would see him again and so I will this evening at supper. Like I gave up my life for you, Baug gave up his own life to raise a young homeless baby by himself. And now, Dad is talking about turning the ranch into a home and school for homeless children. My dad and Baug are more Christ-like than anyone on your side of our family,” Jennifer said.

“And I suppose that puts you in the same category as them because you stayed with me all these years?” Wilma asked viciously.

“No, Mother. I wasn't in their category at all. I wasn't even in the running. I was a fool who allowed you manipulate and intimidate me into believing it was my duty as your youngest daughter to take care of you. Dad and Baug did the right thing. I didn't! There was no heroine-ism in what I did; only shameful cowardice for failing to stand up to you,” Jennifer said bitingly.
 
“So, now you plan to make up for lost time?” Wilma asked grasping for straws.

“Yes, that's my plan. Like you and dad, I've been given a second chance, and I'm trying to assure you, I won't make the same mistakes again. It's time for you to face your own social inadequacies and you'll have lots of time to contemplate, sitting alone, thinking, and reading your bible. The real pity is, I don't think you will ever change. You've been so brainwashed by your family you can't think and reason for yourself,” Jennifer said firmly, got up from her chair, took their breakfast trays, turned, and walked to the door.

“I don't have to think for myself. I allow my lord and savior to think for me and guide me with his holy word,” Wilma said to have the last word and put the period at the end of the sentence.

“Then you might want to consider praying to another imaginary deity, Mother. Your god has sucked all the love and compassion from your soul and deserted you like an unholy succubus. You're a bitter, barren wasteland in which your soul has seen neither the light of reason nor the healing waters of human kindness in a very long while. You have been given another chance, but not by your God. It was because of the goodness and generosity of my father's heart and the enhanced gifts of a very talented young cowboy from the Hill Country of West Central Texas you're still alive,” Jennifer checked her mother.

“No, you're wrong. Dead wrong! God sent Billy Daniels to us so we could bring his word to more people. You better get down on your knees and ask our heavenly father's forgiveness, Little Girl, or you will be doomed to the everlasting fires of Hell and your soul will burn in a lake of fire forever!” Wilma ranted, but Jennifer was halfway down the hall and pretended she didn't hear her mother's last comments. She wickedly reminded herself to pickup a six-pack of some extra-heavy duty sunscreen just in case and laughed at herself from the backwash of her lingering personal insanity from the irrational fears of having once believed.

* * * * * * *
After breakfast the next morning, Bubba opened a gate to Ernest's posh apartment and took him back to Houston. Ernie promised his big master he wouldn't shed any tears. He wanted to learn to be strong and not let his emotions get the better of him, and for the most part he was brave; however, a couple of uncalled for tears found their way out of his eyes. Bubba wiped them away with his bandanna, kissed the small man gently, quietly and calmly told Ernie he loved him, and walked back through the gate. Ernie stood alone feeling like half his soul left him and returned to the Hill Country – and so it did, but that part, the spark which was Ernest Pennywise, was shining just a little bit brighter.    

The small man was proud of the work Bubba and he accomplished. They may have paid a tad too much for the bank, but Ernie felt secure they would make it up in the long run. They installed Dociean and Dorcas as president and vice-president of the Money Management Facility. They both had experience with money institutions and the legal end of the system. They were heavily schooled in what they could do and what might arouse suspicion. As it was, they were having an uncomfortable time explaining to Billy and Bubba why they couldn't do things the way they wanted. They found a staunch ally in Ernest Pennywise. Ernie acted like the deciding vote between owners and management and the two large cowboys acquiesced to their greater knowledge and experience.

Billy and Bubba wanted to offer savings accounts with an enticing percentage growth factor, which was fine with their staff except, they explained, like the dinosaurs, savings accounts were a thing of the past. The hard truth was, with the cost of living increases, and the endless austerity programs forced on the general public, no one was making enough money to set any aside in a savings account for a 'rainy day.' The banks lowered the interest rates so severely there was very little incentive until savings accounts were done away with altogether. Dociean, Dorcas, and Ernie argued it would be like a bad joke; however, since they weren't opening a bank per se, a Credit Union MMF just might get away with it without too much publicity; especially, in a small town.

Billy and Bubba planned to begin paying their slaves within the Grange an allowance like any good parent would do for their young adolescent children so they could learn to manage their own funds. They would deposit a given amount into their savings account on a monthly basis, and they could transfer as much as they needed for personal items into their checking accounts. Furthermore, they planned to bring the standard of living up for the members of the Grange and a savings account might prove to be a good draw. Billy and Bubba stuck to their guns but reached an acceptable agreement with their staff. They would offer savings accounts with a low three percent interest rate which would increase one percent every two years up to six percent maximum after six years. Then one percent every three years until their account reached the maximum of nine percent.

Dociean, Dorcas, and Ernest wanted to offer to refinance any outstanding real estate loans at a substantially lower percentage. It wouldn't cost them that much, it would be a help to their community, a substantial tax right-off, and they could fatten up their books to show growth. Active short term loans for automobiles and ranch equipment would stay the same, but the Grange Credit Union would promise to beat any other loan institution for Ranch or Farm related upgrades or machinery, including trucks. Billy and Bubba agreed.

Even though they opened the Money Management Facility that week under new ownership, they placed signs around town the new Hill Country – Highland Shire Grange Co-op Credit Union and Money Management Facility would have their grand opening the first of September. Bubba figured they would need a month to ease into the saddle and grow accustom to the people who worked for them and train them in the new way they wanted the Credit Union to operate. They would be busy setting up their slaves 'allowance' accounts for five hundred slaves to go into effect the first of August. Billy and Bubba agreed their three punishment-slaves would also be granted an allowance but smaller than the regular family slaves.

* * * * * * *
It was Friday evening, and it almost became a tradition for everyone in the family to gather in the great dining hall for supper. It made it easier on the ladies in the big house for the coming weekend. They made Wilma a light supper and her nurse-attendant, Cynthia, served it to her in her room. The young lady was an Irin slave studying to become a nurse. Wilma tried to talk to her about religion.

“Tell me, Cynthia, have you been saved?” Wilma asked.

“Saved from what, Mrs. Halfablap?” Wilma asked in reply.

“Why, saved from sin and accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and savior?” Wilma asked firmly.

“Oh, no ma'am. As I understand the word, I have never sinned,” Cynthia said.

“Nonsense! Man is born into sin!” Wilma exclaimed.

“Well, I don't think it would apply to me because I'm not a man, and I'm not human. Why would I need a man named Jesus to save me for something I never did, when I already gave my life to serve Master Billy Daniels when I came to Earth? When he accepted me to become one of his slaves, it was the happiest day of my life. I'm glad I did. It was the best decision I ever made. You see, I'm from another planet in the Andromeda galaxy, and we don't believe in the primitive myths and questionable superstitions in which you unenlightened folks are so unfortunately immersed. At best, we look upon religion like we might an addictive drug; at worst we look upon it as an undesirable mental condition. While it might seem harmless taken in moderation, if you get hooked, it can warp rational thinking, become habit forming, and cause a constant craving to shore up your doubts by gathering with addicted groups to reassure each other your baseless ideas are valid with even more radical, overwrought public displays of your devotion.

"Religion will close your mind to new concepts which could help you and your species evolve more rapidly and naturally. It can cause great social and mental damage if abused. Religion, hand in hand, along with insatiable financial greed, can destroy the infra structure of a civilization causing it to collapse. It drives many species insane with terrible ideas and practices to force their imagined level of piety onto those they consider less holy than themselves. Those on other worlds have fought each other over beliefs until they killed so many of their own kind, their species couldn't recover enough to survive. Hopefully, someday soon, your species will advance intellectually and outgrow the need to believe in such nonsense,” Cynthia said sweetly and smiled.

Wilma looked perturbed, but at least she had the decency to drop the subject. She didn't know if the girl was telling the truth or mocking her. Fortunately, she decided not to pursue the matter. After all, the ignorant girl was only a slave, and in Wilma's mind, slaves were of no consequence. Why should she care? Wilma dismissed Cynthia's words as garbage; the young woman was obviously so far out in left field it probably wouldn't be worth the time Wilma would have to invest if she tried to save her. One more in Hell would leave another slot open in Heaven for a true believer.

* * * * * * *
The first bell rang. The men and the visiting children gathered in the great hall to await the ladies and a couple of visitors from the big house. Everyone was cleaned up and wearing their best western clothes, or in the case of Billy's warriors, their uniforms. The usual group of Essengurda warriors with their wives were there. Everyone was looking forward to a laid-back weekend without a lot of trauma. The ladies arrived and were being greeted by everyone. Jennifer got her first look at her dad fully fledged in his handsome wings, and standing on either side of him, was his new watcher protector, Baug, and his stalwart, handsome, uber-masculine escort, Bart Langstrom. Jennifer went to her father's open arms and cried at how wonderful and handsome he looked. They embraced and exchanged kisses on the cheek. “I always knew in my heart you were an angel, Dad,” Jennifer said, “You look wonderful,” she added.

“You and you sisters were always my angels, Sweetheart,” the Colonel replied, and took her hand, “You remember my faithful, young Cowboy-Angel escort, Mr. Bart Langstrom,” Hank said.

“Mr. Langstrom? Of course I remember him. It would be difficult to forget such a virile, fine looking, young man,” Jennifer poured on the charm and offer her hand.

Bart came to attention, snapped his boot heels together, took Jennifer's hand, bowed from his waist, and gently kissed the back with utmost politeness. “It's always a pleasure and an honor to see you again, Miss Halfablap,” Bart said.

A few minutes earlier, Brent and Gertie arrived. Bart just finished introducing them to the Colonel and his Warrior-Protector Baug when Jennifer came into the hall. Gertie giggled at Bart's formality. Everyone laughed at the small dog causing Bart to blush, but he laughed, too. The Colonel threw his big arm around Bart's shoulder and pulled him close as a gesture of masculine solidarity.

“Hesh, up, Gertie!” Brent checked her, “It's not polite to laugh at our brother,” he said and couldn't help snicker himself. It was so out of character for Bart.

“And who might you be, Pretty Lady?” Jeniffer asked Gerty.

“I'm Gertie, ma'am. I'm Master Bart's little sister. I apologize if I caused my big brother any embarrassment. I love him very much and would never do anything to hurt him. I have never seen him so formal, but I will have to say, Master Bart makes a fine figure of a man and a polite Cowboy-Angel,” Gertie said. Everyone laughed again.

“It's all right, Gertie,” Bart spoke up, “I was going to introduce you and my brother to Ms. Jennifer anyway. Ma'am, this fine looking man next to me is my bonded brother, Mr. Brent Sparks. He is the master of my little sister, Gertie. For many years, Mr. Sparks was my personal angel without a set of wings. Because of my brother's selfless heroism and some minor thing I done for Master Billy and his posse, Brent and I were enhanced to became Cowboy-Angels the same evening. I'm quite sure, what I done didn't deserve such an honor, but I think I understand now why I was offered a set of wings. I heard rumors it was because Master Billy and his posse weren't real sure my brother could handle a little monster like Gertie by himself,” Bart bit back, laughed, but continued his gentlemanly stance. Everyone laughed, including Gertie.

“You deserved that, Gertie!” Brent said firmly and laughed. “It's an honor to meet you, ma'am,” Brent said, took Jennifer's hand, and gently shook it once.

“It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Sparks. It's good to meet you, too, Gertie,” Jennifer said.

Out of the corner of her eye, Jennifer was watching the huge, giant Watcher-Protector monster standing next to her dad and could see he was on pins and needles to reunite with his youngest granddaughter. Jennifer turned her attention to her father, “I've heard rumors you have your own Watcher-Protector for a slave. Were the rumors correct, Colonel? Could this be him standing next to you, sir?” she asked, smiled, and winked at her father.

“Well, Mr. Fuzzy Britches, you're on! Say 'hello' to your granddaughter,” Hank said to his protector.

“Miss Jennifer, I can't tell you how wonderful it is to see your sweet face again,” Baug said and opened his huge arms to the much smaller woman.

“Granddad Baug, is it really you?” she asked and moved into the giant's strong arms. For his immense size Baug was exceptionally gentle. Jennifer never felt more safe in her life.

“Yes, it's me, Dear One. I promised I would see you and your sisters again,” Baug said.
   
“Your voice is much deeper and stronger, but I would know it was you in the darkest night,” Jennifer said and shed a few tears. It was a very moving moment for everyone in the room to see them reunited again.

“Hosanna!” shouted Bart Langstrom.

“Hosanna, in the highest!” everyone in the room echoed.

Jennifer didn't seem the least intimidated by her granddad's new form. She gave him a big kiss right on his huge mouth. She didn't hold back her joy or her affection for her lost relative. Baug was gentle as a lamb with her and shed big tears to feel his youngest granddaughter in his arms again. The great beast's mind flashed back to sitting on the front porch of the old bunkhouse in a rocking chair with Jennifer on his lap and her two sisters sitting around them listening to one of Baug's tall cowboy tales from a bygone era.

The third bell for supper rang, they broke off their brief reunion, and everyone went into the great dining hall and found their seats. Baug excused himself to join his watcher brothers who were fed separately. Baug loved the slave chow and nutrient biscuits. After Bart introduced him to the wonder of slave chow the previous morning, Baug never wanted to eat human food again, unless it was to drink straight from a cow – or in Baug's case, a bull.

Supper was served and talk was lively around the table. “You been awful quiet about the Barnyard Concert tomorrow, Master Billy,” Randy said.

“I ain't try'n to be secretive. You and your Brandenburg posse agreed to start the concert off wiff' your dead-on readings of the first three concertos. Your beastie-boys and ladies auxiliary baroque band of misfits has been the most requested repeat in our feedback polls. Master Jessie has been working hard on some old and new material. He and and four members of the Houston Philharmonic have formed a group and have already performed the second piece on our program last week at a sold out performance of several works. They will play Mozart's Piano Quintet In E flat major, K.452. Their group consists of our dear Clara Mae Bastiaen on Oboe, Jason Durst on Bassoon, Clementine Andover on Clarinet, and William Merrill on French Horn. The quintet is considered to be one of Mozart's finest works. We have a rehearsal in the morning at Uncle Tom's cabin. The orchestra will be playing Stravinsky's Symphony in Three Movements, and after another couple of to-be-announced performances, we will end the classical part of the program with Stravinsky's Ebony Concerto. Master Jessie will be at the piano for both. It will be a nice segue piece into our country music portion,” Billy allowed.

“I know you. You got a surprise up yore' sleeve, don't chu?” Randy asked.

“You'll just have to wait until tomorrow and see, Bossman,” Billy said and smiled.

* * * * * * *
Jennifer was sitting between Hank and Bart. Bart was the consummate gentleman cowboy, held the lady's chair for her to sit, and didn't sit down himself until his master sat.

“How is your mother?” the Colonel asked.

“Oh, let's not talk about her, Dad. After our little chat this morning, I'm more convinced than ever, she will never change. My plan is to start a new life without her and her influence. Her life suppressing ideas of how to live life no longer hold any power over me. I told her I would help her move and get on her feet. I plan to visit regularly and often, but beyond that, when I'm satisfied she can fly solo, she's on her own. I know she'll go for the luxury apartment, and hopefully, my sisters can take up some of the slack for me. They've never been as open with you as I have about our mother. They know you and I share something special, but so did me and Baug. I was their go between with you when they wanted something and didn't want to ask mother. I plan to sit them down and remind them of that fact and talk 'turkey' with them about the future. I ran interference for them for many years. It's time they made an effort to repay me enough to keep mother in the happy fog of her own manufactured delusions,” Jennifer said.

“I plan to change my name, Jen,” Hank said softly.

“Good! I think you should. Like Baug has been transformed, you have every right to take on the name which was given you at birth. I think Oran Augustus Daniels is a much better name than Henry Halfablap,” Jeniffer said sincerely, “As a matter of fact, with your permission, I would like to ask the Daniels family if I might change my name to 'Daniels,' too,” she added.

“No, I don't mind at all. It would please me very much, and I know Billy would appreciate the gesture of solidarity in the face of disappointment,” Hank said and sighed deeply shaking his head.

Bart excused himself and walked over to Baug. He wanted to check on him to see if he was comfortable and getting enough to eat. While he was away, Jeniffer took the opportunity to ask her dad an uncomfortable question. Jeniffer watched as Baug smiled, put his huge arm around the good looking cowboy and pulled him close to speak more intimately with him.

“Mother really hurt you, didn't she?” Jeniffer asked her dad quietly.

“I'd be a damn liar if'n I's to say no, Daughter, but I'm glad you brought some things to my attention of which I was unaware. I got me boots on the ground, and with the help of my surrogate dad and a fine young man as an Escort, I'm slowly learning to live again. I'm certain I will learn to love again. I'm looking forward to retirement and the freedom it will bring to pursue other options. Would it bother you if I never got married again, Sweetheart?” Hank asked, and quickly added, “With a woman, that is – ” he said and grinned sheepishly.  

“Why, Daddy, you kinky old dog! I would never have suspected. Would it bother me? Not in the least. Especially if it's Bart Langstrom you have your sights set on. I would urge you to snap up that young cowboy like a kid finding a prize in a Crackerjack box, sing the last act of La Boheme together, and keep him on a short leash,” Jennifer replied and grinned.

Hank broke-up laughing, “You been around cowboys too many years, Darlin,'” Hank said. Jeniffer giggled.

“I plan to marry the biggest damn cowboy I can find. I will tell him he's got a ticket for one free ride in the saddle to prove himself and not to worry because I'm protected. I'll lay my cards on the table. I want seven sons and one daughter, and if he ain't cowboy enough or feels like he can't give me what I want, to hitch up his Wranglers, put his Cope can in his back pocket, and move on down the line,” Jeniffer said firmly and Hank roared with laughter. Everyone laughed at them. They were glad to see Hank and his daughter were getting along well with each other and were happy. “Before Bart gets back would you mind telling me why you're considering crossing the great continental divide?” Jeniffer asked quietly.

“Continental divide? Best metaphor I've heard in a good while. Apropos in several states,” the Colonel laughed and continued, “One word and one name; enhancement and Bart Langstrom. Both have opened my mind and heart to other realities and possibilities. God knows, I done tried the orthodox route and failed miserably,” Hank said remorsefully.

“Oh, Puuu-lease! You were not a failure. You married a woman who was pre-set by her family with a mental disease. She was little more than a 'wholly babble' zombie construct, and she hasn't change a whit in all these years. My mother is synonymous with the words 'rabid orthodoxy,' but she isn't the norm! Say no more. You are not to blame. I finally came to see the light just about the time mine was growing dimmer by the day. I realized what a fool I was to have spent my life living in her dark and lifeless shadow. I felt cheated. I don't blame you a bit. I loved Deek and Bafra all these years and know if I needed anything I could go to them, and they would always shoot straight with me. I knew Grandpa Baug was a man's man, but I always thought you, my fearless warrior-father, would gut it out; the straight-arrow, missionary-position, hard-core, staunchly straight-arrow buckaroo type until the end of your days; however, I will have to say, I'm pleasantly surprised, and you have my most sincere blessings, Dad,” Jeniffer said.

“Will you back me with your sisters if it should come up in conversation?” Hank asked.

“I got chore' back, Cowboy. I'll set them two down and when I get through, I promise, they will eat out of your hand. They're already in awe of you. Unfortunately, Mother instilled in them you were a monster, and for most of their lives, they were scared to death of you. Now they have families of their own, they have done a hundred and eighty degree turn-around. They can't abide being around mother more than a couple of hours. Somehow, her ranting and raving against you never took with me. I just knew better. Like the rest of her nonsense, it ran off my back like water off a duck,” Jennifer said.

“God, I'm so sorry you had to live in such dark sadness, Darling,” Hank said.

“Don't be, Daddy! Let's bury the past and look to the future,” Jennifer said as Bart returned to his seat.

Hank stood, pulled Bart's chair out for him, motioned for him to sit, and pushed him to the table. “Why, thank you, Colonel,” Bart spoke in a voice which said he was surprised and touched by the big man's gesture.

“Acknowledgement of worth and minor considerations are small enough investments in admiration and appreciation, but ten times worth their weight in gold, Son,” the Colonel said quietly.

“I'll remember that, sir. Shall I add it to your already healthy account, Colonel?” Bart asked.

“I would appreciate it, Son... savings for a rainy day, or perhaps a get-out-of-the-dog-house free card,” Hank replied and laughed.

“Be happy to, sir, and I'll pray it rains soon,” Bart agreed.
 
Bart was sitting next to Kate, and she asked him a question which drew his attention away from the Colonel. Jeniffer leaned into her dad, “You let that hunk of Grade A Hill Country cowboy meat get away and I promise, I will haunt your dreams for the rest of your days, Oran Daniels,” she said quietly, giggled like a school girl, and they shared another laugh.

“We're taking it slow. I don't know if I can become what he needs and feel fulfilled, but I'm willing to give it the old Aggie try. Baug is already head over heels in love with Bart. He damn near upset the apple cart trying to play Dolly Levi and become our matchmaker. Fortunately, I had enough good sense to lay my cards on the table the first night Bart and I spent together, and we reached an agreement we would take it one day at a time and see how it goes. We ain't rush'n into anything,” Hank said.

“I'll be comfortable as long as I know there's a chance,” Jennifer said.

“There's definitely a chance, Sweetheart, and a good one, at that,” the Colonel said.

* * * * * *
As they were having dessert, Billy stood and announced, after the ladies leave and their young guests taken up to their rooms, the men would be gathering in the hot tubs for a while before retiring for the evening.

Jennifer was talking with Bart as they were enjoying their dessert and asked him what his full name was. “Latham Augerance Bartholomew Langstrom, ma'am,” Bart replied, “I was raised by my grandparents and I was known as 'Augie' until I left home and started to ride on the rodeo circuit. I didn't think 'Augie' was a good 'cowboy' name. I always thought it sounded like a comic book character or someone from Mayberry RFD, so I began to go by 'Bart,'” Bart added.

“What a coincidence, my middle name is 'Latham.' I was named after my granddad Baug's grandmother's maiden name,” Jennifer said, “Were you named after family member, Bart?” she asked.

“Yes, ma'am, my great-grandmother was named 'Frances Virginia Latham' but everyone called her 'Franny.'” Bart said. “She was a tiny little woman and had six sons and two daughters. I still have old pictures of her in my family album,” he added.

“Wait a minute! I'm almost sure that was Baug's grandmother's name. Dad, what was Granddad Baug's grandmother's full name?” she asked as Bart leaned over to listen.

“Frances Virginia Latham, why do you ask?” Hank asked.

“Bart's first name is Latham. Did she have a nickname?” Jennifer asked.

“Yeah, he said everyone called her 'Franny.' She was somewhat of a frontier heroine. Single handed, she fought off a band of Apache raiders to protect her family,” the Colonel replied.

“From down Uvalde way, Colonel?” Bart asked.

“Yeah, our ranch, which is pretty large by modern standards, was only a small part of the land homesteaded by the Lathams,” Hank replied.

Bart and Jennifer looked at each other and laughed. “You tell him,” Jennifer said.

“No, you tell him,” Bart smiled and said.

“Would somebody please tell me what this it all about?” Hank asked and grinned.

“Bart's great-grandmother was called 'Franny' and her name was Frances Virginia Latham. He told me he's still got pictures of her in his family album,” Jennifer explained.

“That's remarkable but not unusual in larger Texas families. For God's sake don't say nothing to Baug about it. He's already insanely in love with Bart and that information just might push him over the edge,” Hank said and laughed, “Save it for one a them rainy days, Son, when we're all sitting around jawing with each other about nothing in particular,” Hank added.

“I understand, Colonel, and I agree. News like that would only fan the flame and make things even more awkward,” Bart agreed.   

“Don't chu' say nothing, neither, Missy,” the Colonel admonished his daughter.

“I promise, Daddy, I'll be a good girl,” Jennifer said like a little girl and got a laugh out of the two men.

* * * * * * *
Baug wasn't much of a fan for the hot tubs. He would abide it if the Colonel wanted, but it seemed to take forever for him to dry. The other watcher owners had family slaves and grooms to use hairdryers to brush and blow them dry. The Colonel was just starting out and was still learning the ins and outs of living with a giant beast. Bart volunteered he wouldn't mind blowing Baug, and they laughed at his unintended double entendre.

“He's half again bigger than them other critters. It would be a monumental task even if we both blowed him while holding a drier in our mouth with a brush in each hand. I don't plan to spend the rest of my life taking care of a giant beast, even if he was once my surrogate Pa. We'll hire a staff if necessary, but neither do I want you spending your time with a chore like that when you could be seeing to your master's needs,” Hank said boldly, grinned, and winked at Bart.

Bart smiled to himself but didn't respond right away. The young cowboy sighed deeply, “Baug is family, Colonel, yours and mine, no matter what form he was given,” Bart said softly not to arouse his assigned master's ire.

“I agree, and as such, he can wait patiently for us in our apartment until we return. He has his own room and there's a vid screen he can watch. We're in no danger on this ship. Besides, I want some time for you and me away from him. He don't always have to be with us, looking over our shoulders, and certainly not trying to influence either of us. He don't know it yet, but I plan to talk to Billy about leaving him here on the ranch or he can pal around with Deek and Bafra at our ranch while we're gone. They'll take care of him. Baug can be a great help to Jennifer and my other daughters by helping my soon-to-be ex-wife move into her new apartment. The sooner we get her relocated the better. I'm sure she'll be much happier living in a luxury apartment away from the ranch. We will go to Houston and maybe on to Washington depending on what I need to do to muster out of the Service. It shouldn't take too long. There ain't that much to do other than submit the paperwork.

“I might have to have a muster-out physical but my last checkup was less than a month ago. I think I can pull some strings and avoid it. The usual process time is about one week after the papers have been filed. I think they been expecting it for sometime now. I got me some worries, but as much as I love Baug, he's one of them. Right now, I only want to worry about getting my retirement taken care of so's we can begin our new lives,” Hank said.
 
“Usually when someone of your rank retires they throw a big party so everyone can schmooze, drink too much, tell bad jokes, and kiss ass,” Bart said.

Hank laughed, “I done had me enough of that kind of crap. I don't want any parties. I never was much for small talk and learned to survive by telling funny cowboy stories. Them parties used to bore me to the tits. I plan to use my sick wife as a get-out-of-jail free card,” Hank said and grinned.

“Your wife ain't sick now, Boss,” Bart gently reminded him.

“They don't know that. The last info they got was she's gravely ill and not expected to live. I'll just stretch the situation out a bit to get me over the hump,” the Colonel replied. “Hopefully, the excuse of having to go home to care for the old cow will be one last favor she can unwittingly do for me,” he added, winked, and grinned wickedly. “I think it's worth a lifetime of comfort with only three fucks for her to suffer,” the Colonel said but didn't laugh. He was dead serious, and there was a touch of bitterness in his voice.

“I don't mean to check you, sir, but you're kidding about them 'three fucks,' ain't chu?” Bart asked with an incredulous look on his face hoping the Colonel was pulling his leg.

“That ain't no cowboy hyperbole, Son, nor am I blow'n smoke up your fantastic young ass. In damn near forty years, the only time she let me have intercourse with her was when we decided to have a child. Do the math, Son. Three daughters equals three fucks,” Hank said and smiled at Bart.

Bart looked at his master like he was stunned. One tear formed in his right eye and ran down his cheek. Hank saw it, put his big arm around his escort, pulled him close, and kissed his tear way. “There, there, Son, don't go feel'n sorry for me. I could have bailed out earlier, but I kept hoping she would change. After I lost my cock and balls, h'it t'weren't that important no more. It's my own damn fault, but now I got me a second chance, with a brand new body, a fine cock with a goodly set of low-hangers to make someone happy. I don't plan to make the same mistakes,” he said.

“Is there anything I can do, Colonel?” Bart asked sincerely.

“No, nothing, just be your sweet-self, gimme' one a them wonderful cowboy hugs, one of them brotherly, sloppy wet buckaroo kisses 'afore we bunk-it-in together, let me hold you if I lose my way in that big bed during the night, and become my mental crutch to lean on to help me through the final days of my military service,” Hank said.

“I promise, I'll be by your side every step of the way, sir. Have you cleared it with my master about taking me with you back to Houston?” Bart asked.

“I didn't know I had to, Son. I thought he agreed to assign you to me as long as I needed you,” Hank replied.

“Manners, Colonel, the Code of the West, and the Cowboy Way,” Bart quietly reminded him.

“Of course, you're absolutely right. With all what's going down in the last several days, I ain't been think'n right. That's exactly why I asked for you to be my Escort so's you could keep this big-old bull from making a gall-durn fool of his'self,” Hank said using his best cowboy speak. “C'moan, Son, let's us mosey on down the way in this here pool so's we can speak with yore' master,” the Colonel said and they walked closer to Billy. The Colonel asked a couple of the men to please make room for them. The men gave them a fake bad time and grumbled but quickly made room for them. Everyone laughed at them.   

“Nephew Billy, I'm planning on leaving the ranch Monday morning after breakfast. I'll probably be gone for a week or more, but with them gates, what make it so easy to come and go, I'd like to return next Friday afternoon. Do you think you could spare my handsome young Escort for a week – maybe more, sir?” the Colonel asked.

Billy looked at Nick and winked like he was going to have some fun with his new uncle. “I don't know if I can spare him that long, Colonel. Bart's a special cowboy on this here ship. He's busy every damn day working his ass off from start to, sometimes, way after quit'n time. What do you say, Master Quince?” Billy passed the ball to Jethro.

“Don't know, Master Billy,” Jethro started with a frown on his handsome face and shaking his head, “Bart's ma' number two man. Ever' body on this ship and in the yard loves theys-selves some Bart Langstrom. He answers to more than just me though. What say you, Master Blue?” Jethro passed the ball to Big Blue the foreman of the electricians.

“I don't know what we'd do without him without slow'n down production long enough for another man to learn how to fill his boots, and I'm sure it would take a couple of weeks. Didn't take Bart a week, and he made his'self indispensable. He didn't just stand around waiting for somebody to tell him what to do. He would see a lack of communication between the building guilds, and made it his own damn job to find solutions equitable to everyone. We ain't never run so smoothly before Bart come to live on the ship with us. He can do practically any job. He sat through a week of electrical training lectures I give the men when I first come here. Now he can do it himself or show another what he's done wrong and give him a hand with it. Since he come, we ain't had us no bicker'n or misunderstandings. That cowboy is worth his weight in gold,” Blue finished.

“What say you, Master Obbligato?” Billy asked Marcus.

“My boy runs his ass off from the time the work-clock starts to well after we shut down for the day. Bart's my extra yard pup and fills in the gaps for my boy when he's just about to go under for the third time. Bart's quick to analyze a problem and find a solution faster than any go-between we ever had, and he makes our day considerably easier,” Marcus said and shook his head like he would hate to see the cowboy go.

“Well, there you have it, Uncle Gus,” Billy said and threw the ball back to the Colonel.   

“Gees, I didn't know my handsome, young cowboy escort was so talented and such a well-thought-of integral part of your construction crew, Nephew, but I ain't surprised. I only have to think back over the past several days I been with you men and count the ways his brilliance kept me from embarrassing myself by step'n in a mess of social cow pies and get'n my nice new boots messed up. He's been like a God-send to me with his help, knowledge, and compassion for a new recruit. I must have misunderstood when he volunteered to have me stay with him in his apartment and you assigned him as my Escort. I never considered I might be taking him away from his work mates,” the Colonel said. “I guess I'll just have to go back alone and make the best of it by myself. I'm sorry. I was being selfish and only thinking about myself, but that ain't all. I gotta' admit, I done went and developed a major bro crush on my Cowboy Escort, and I didn't want to suffer the pain I know I'm gonna' feel when I have to tell him goodbye. I feel like a danged old fool in the body of a much younger man in need of a good companion,” Hank lamented.
   
“Y'ain't alone, Uncle Gus. I feel like a fool ever' damn day because of the things I miss and overlook around this place. My pa here keeps me from step'n in a shit-load of cow-pies ever' damn day. Sometimes he don't catch me quick enough, and I fall on my face into one,” Billy said and got a laugh, “I don't think there's a man in this bath what ain't felt the same way one time or t'other, especially during our work days. That's why we only work four and a half days. Tell you what, you can have Master Bart for five days starting Monday, but if you need him longer, depending on how our workload is coming along, he might have to gate to work during the day from your place in Houston or wherever you're staying. We can talk again next weekend,” Billy said.

“I'd greatly appreciate it, Master Billy. My old soul ain't caught up with my younger body yet, and it's a great relief to know I'll have Bart with me to keep me from doing something stupid,” the Colonel said.

“Now we got that taken care of, there's one more matter we need to discuss. What name do you want to be known as?” Billy asked.

“I told my daughter at dinner tonight, as soon as I muster out of the service, I plan to go through the process of legally changing my name to Oran Augustus Daniels, and Jeniffer told me she wanted to change her last name to Daniels. I will still be known to the government as Henry Halfablap. Dealing with the government bureaucracy would be a can of worms best left unopened. I don't plan to give up being known as 'Colonel.' I'm proud of my rank, but I want to be known as Oran Augustus Daniels; Oran or just Gus. You don't know what it does for my old soul to hear you call me 'Uncle Gus,' Billy,” the Colonel said.  

“Does that apply to ever' body, Colonel?” Billy asked.

“Yes, everyone including my family, and right now I'm presumptuously including my young Escort in that category,” Oran Augustus replied.

“So be it. From now on, you shall be known to us as Oran Augustus Daniels and when you return and have your name legally changed, I will have your soul branded with the name by Excalibur,” Billy said.

“It would be an honor, Nephew,” Gus replied. “I have one last thing to discuss. I would like to leave Baug here with you. He thinks he must go with me everywhere as my protector, but it's too much of a worry for me right now. I'm worried he might feel rejected and unwanted. I don't know if watchers go into depression or not. It's certainly not my intention to hurt him or exclude him. Quite honestly, I'm proud to have him as a member of my new family; however, he has some adjustments to make to become a good companion and protector,” the Colonel said.

“I agree. I've watched him, and he's uncertain about himself. He's like a bull in a China shop. While he originally came from Earth, times have changed, and being in a different form with enhanced senses and a few powers, can be frustrating and dangerous. For a while, he must be supervised and taught our ways. I will take care of it Sunday afternoon. I am the master of all Watchers on Earth, and he must obey my commands and his personal master, as well as learning how to become the best protector for you and our family,” Billy said.

“I feel bad not including him, but I wasn't prepared for his arrival. I think I should have a period of time to adjust to my new reality. My greatest worry is to become overwhelmed, but with your and Bart's help, I hope to make the transition without major trauma,” Gus said.   

“Not to worry, Uncle Gus. We're here to help. It's what families do for each other,” Billy reassured his uncle.

“Do you think we should share with my nephew what we discovered this evening during supper?” Gus asked Bart quietly.

“I don't believe in keeping secrets from my masters, Colonel. Secrets, if found out, could erode confidence,” Bart said loud enough Tron and Nathan Daniels heard him.

“Hear! Hear!” Tron exclaimed.

“Listen to your Escort, Uncle!” Nathan said firmly.    

“Bart and Baug are blood relations,” the Colonel laid it on the line and smile.

“Woah dogies! I didn't see that one coming. Tell me the rest, Uncle,” Billy urged him.

“I named my youngest daughter after Baug's grandmother, Jennifer Latham Halfablap. She asked Bart what his full name was, and he told her it was Latham Augerance Bartholomew Langstrom. They began to put two and two together, and discovered Bart's great-grandmother was Frances Virginia Latham, and she was known to everyone as “Franny.” Our ranch was part of a much larger Mexican land grant bought by the Latham family and eventually passed down to Baug,” the Colonel said.

“Ain't nothing like keeping it in the family,” Billy said and laughed, “It never occurred to me to ask Bart his full name. With a name like Augerance, did you ever get called 'Augie,' Bart?” Billy asked.

“I'd still be called 'Augie' if I's to go home. I used the name Bart when I began my ill-fated, short-live rodeo career. I thought the name 'Bart' sounded more like a tough rodeo cowboy,” Bart said, “Didn't do me much good. I found out real quick-like I weren't none too tough,” he added and laughed.

“Hummm,” Billy mused, “Augie and Aggie – works for me. Them ancients got a wicked sense of humor,” he added and laughed. Everyone around the pool laughed with him.  

* * * * * * *
Shortly after the pre-pooh-bear-tea Posse Comitatus were herded off to the big house grumbling like a receding storm, the Colonel put his arm around Bart's shoulder and pulled him closer. “Have you had enough soaking for this evening, Son?” Gus whispered in his ear.

“I believe so, Master Gus. I'd rather be spending some quality one-on-one time with you before we bed down for the night. You've never been to a Saturday Barnyard Concert, and since you're family now, you will be expected to work as hard as any slave working by your side to see to the Daniels' guests to help make sure everyone has a good time. Trust me, you will need your rest,” Bart replied.

“How is it you always seem to know the right words to say to me when I ask you a question?” Gus asked.

“I cheat, sir. I read your aura. A moment before you asked, it was a deep scarlet surrounded by dark purples signifying the sexual urges of a bull about to go into rut who is keeping his passions in check by his more noble and compassionate instincts rather than let them run free through the streets of your imagination. There are also bands of gold which surround both like a metal bands hold the staves of a whiskey barrel to insure none is lost or in you case none gets out. You are in complete control of your inner animal, but when you look at me, it grows larger and stronger by proportion, much more red, but the others keep him controlled. That's why I'm so comfortable with you. You are a true cowboy and you live by the Code of the West or the Cowboy Way,” Bart said quietly.

“You're amazing, Son. You're right, bow'fus want to be alone with you for the rest of the evening,” Gus said softly in Bart's ear.

“You and your bull, sir?” Bart asked.

“Do you see another?” Gus asked in reply.

“No, sir. I would very much like to be alone with both. Since you are my master for this evening, I'll leave it up to you to be gracious to our host and have him excuse us for the evening,” Bart replied.  

“I shall, and I promise, I will control my other half until we're both ready to release him, but you will never suffer the same fate as your previous attempts at bull riding. It will be one rodeo, I guarantee, you will win, Cowboy,” the Colonel said softly and watched Bart smile and nod.

The Colonel made excuses for him and his escort which were hollow but sincere. Most everyone around the pool could read their auras and could see they urgently needed to be alone with each other. Everyone wished them well. Billy was proud of his posse. They conducted themselves like gentlemen, and Billy thought that was saying a lot for a bunch of rowdy cowboys. There was a bond between them which wanted to see something good happen for two men they came to know and love.

* * * * * * *
Bart and Gus showered in the dungeon and dried themselves with towels provided so they wouldn't have to use the shower in the apartment and disturb Baug. When they got there, they went into Bart's room and closed the door. They embraced with Bart's arms thrown around the Colonel's neck, and the Colonel held one of Bart's butt cheeks with each huge hand. Gus enveloped the cowboy's young strong body into his mature hardened military body. They shared a passionate kiss which lasted some time; long enough, they both got roaring erections, and laughed at each other for not being able to control their basic animal instincts.

They moved to the bed. Gus got in first and opened his arms for Bart to come to him. Bart lost no time finding a safe harbor for himself in the Colonel's massively muscular arms. Gus held him and stroked the young cowboy like he would a fine pet, but he never suggested anything more. Bart didn't expect him to and wallowed in the comfort one man can bring another by holding them close. Gus was no fool. He trained horses as a young cowboy and knew how to make a horse fall in love with him. There was no magic to it. He simply made himself available, but he never pushed himself onto the beast. Gus treated him with kindness and relayed his honesty and affection for his pony with his touch. Then one day, he would come to trust Gus enough, he would give himself to the young cowboy. He would learn he could always trust his master. Slowly, Gus would teach him to wear a bridle and a bit, and then his saddle. Then all Gus had to do was mount him, let him get used to him being in complete control, and then he could ride his pony without any psychological trauma from being broken. Gus planned to train Bart the same way. Slowly, with love and trust. Gus needed to get in a lot of hard riding to make up for the many years he spent alone in a barren wasteland, and he needed a well trained pony with a comfortable saddle.

* * * * * * *
Baug gently knocked on Bart's bedroom door the next morning. Bart hollered for him to come in, and he gently turned the knob and stuck his head inside. Baug could see his naked master's arms around Bart's waist with his head laying on the young cowboy's chest. “Come in, Baug. What time is it?” Bart asked.

“Ten minutes before first bell, Master Bart. I thought you and Master Hank might like to know,” Baug said nervously.

“Thanks, we need to get started for the day. Come in! Come in! There's no reason for you to be sitting by yourself out there,” Bart urged him.

“Thanks, Master Bart. I was get'n a mite lonesome,” Baug said shyly.

“Wake up, Master Gus, your fine looking Watcher-Warrior Protector is here, and it's time to get up and get our day started,” Bart insisted.

The Colonel moaned and groaned, and let go of Bart. Bart got up and walked to Baug, slowly raised his arms, and put them around the giant beast's neck and gave him a quick peck on the cheek. “Good morning, Baug. I'd kiss you on the mouth, but I probably have morning breath which might kill the biggest beast,” Bart said groggy from sleep.

“You have a wonderful clean, masculine smell about you, sir. It's very pleasant and appealing to me,” Baug said quietly.

“You have a remarkably fresh smell this morning,” Bart observed.

“I ask them two little halflings, Mace and Picard, with bodies by god his'self, to groom me before I come up for bed, and they were kind enough to take pity upon me. I was so limp when they got through with me, I didn't know if I could walk up them stairs to your apartment, but I managed. I had my doubts about the usefulness of such small men, but I was so wrong. They's wonderful little men to have around,” Baug said.    

The Colonel headed for the bathroom and motioned for his Escort to join him. Bart followed, and they showered together in the extra large shower stall. There was also a huge jacuzzi tub in the large bathroom Bart never used because he got enough soaking in the hot tubs in the dungeon; however, with the Colonel being his apartment guest, he thought it might get used. He could imagine kicking back, relaxing, soaking in his master's huge arms and popped a boner in the shower.

“Here! I'll have none of that, Boy!” the Colonel barked and grinned. “The very idea, you having nasty thoughts about your master,” he added, and turned for Bart to see his own impressive erection.

Bart laughed, “Yes, sir, Colonel, I'll keep that in mind, sir,” he replied.

The Colonel continued, “Besides, it's a proven medical fact, dirty thoughts and erections are contagious,” Gus said with authority. “We must remember at all times, we are an intelligent, rational thinking species, and we should be able to control our baser urges; but Sweet Jesus come to me, I ain't real sure how much longer I can hold out ever' time I see or touch that sweet young cowboy ass of yorn,” Gus said, and they fell together laughing.  

“One step at a time, Bossman. We're on the right track aboard the right train. We'll get there together,” Bart declared.

The Colonel and his fine, strapping young Cowboy Escort dried themselves and returned to the living area still in the raw.

“These clothes arrived for you and Master Bart while you's in the shower, Master Hank,” Baug said pointing to the clothes on the table and boots on the floor.

There were two handsome new western shirts of the same design and color, two brand new pair of Wrangles, two matching belts, white hats, and two new pair of handsome buckaroo boots.

“What's this, Son?” Gus asked.

“UFOD, Colonel! I been get'n by with just my regular western clothes, but this is a message; we're family now, and we must dress like the rest of the Daniels family today so's guests can distinguish us from the visitors,” Bart said.*

They quickly got dressed and looked like a million bucks when they finished. The men and Baug walked down the stairs and joined the giants on their way to the great dining hall. They arrived just outside the entrance when the ladies from the big house came through a gate. Jennifer came to them and made over her dad, Bart, and Baug about how good and sexy they looked. She even had a big hug and a kiss for Baug. Everyone went in for a big country breakfast but broke up soon afterward.

Billy was barking marching orders about who goes where, for what reason, and when. He invited the Colonel, Bart, Baug, and Jennifer to join them to help set up for rehearsals with the orchestra, and they readily agreed. “What if the rest of our families arrives early, Billy?” Gus asked.

“Someone will notify us, we'll send one of you back, and have them join us,” Billy said nonchalantly.

“Are you sure, Son?” Gus asked.

“I'm sure, Uncle Gus. No more secrets; especially, with family. Your family is our family now. We don't have to hide anything from them,” Billy said firmly.

“Thanks for that, Son. You're right. That's the way it should be,” Gus agreed.      

* * * * * * *
Jennifer wouldn't have missed the rehearsal for the world. She promised she would return after breakfast to sit with her mother until Wilma's other daughters and their family arrived, but she sent word back with Kate Daniels something came up which was far more important and a Hell of lot more interesting. Kate laughed at Jennifer. She wasn't about to tell her mother what her daughter said, but she promised she would see to it Wilma was looked after.

The orchestra arrived early to have treats, schmooze a bit, renew friendships, and were in their places and ready to go at the downbeat of their Maestro's baton. It really wasn't a baton per se. It was an old piece of one-eighth inch doweling Billy cleaned up and sprayed with white enamel paint. Billy drilled an eighth inch diameter hole in a fishing cork and stuck it on the bottom. It looked like a cheap magic wand made by Huck Finn, but it worked just fine to create the magic of music.   

Billy stood before the orchestra. “This may prove to be one of our most challenging Barnyard Concert yet. The music we've chosen is not often played today, but we hope to change that; and, the only way we can is by being the best orchestra in the nation and have the rest of them sit up and take notice,” Billy said strongly.

“Hosanna!” shouted Jack Roamer the bass player who was suspicious of Billy at their first rehearsal.

“Hosanna, in the highest!” shouted the orchestra in reply.

By that time, the orchestra was so hyped to play some good music, they read the complete Stravinsky Symphony in Thee Movements with very few interruptions from their Maestro. Once corrected, they played it just the way Billy wanted it every time. They were hot and they knew it. Billy never saw them so enthusiastic. He briefly told them the program, and several whistled their surprise. This was the sort of meat a starving group of musical lions were drooling to sink their teeth into. Several cheers went up.

Billy explained, the next piece was going to be somewhat unorthodox. They would play Vaughn-Williams “The Lark Ascending” but the solo part would be played by the Daniels family's own Roz Cumber on her Amati Viola. Billy told them she performed it several times with a hacked-up chamber group of musicians around the ranch, but never with a complete orchestra. “She has, however, performed it with our group of rag-tag musicians on two different worlds in two different galaxies,” he tossed off, like it was just a fact – nothing to be concerned about. Now, with their help, he planned to introduce and showcase one of the finest rising stars of the Daniels' music world.

“And you will notice our dear Roz is wearing a maternity smock. She is well into the second trimester of her pregnancy, and for those of you who don't already know, our beloved little sister is carrying me and my watcher husband's son, Billy Augustus Daniels, Junior,” Billy said and grinned.

Several applauded, but the others looked stunned. “I won't go into the lurid details, but before you condemn me as a misogynist pig, let me assure you, Roz volunteered for the position. If you're interested, ask one of our family members or Rox herself and they will be happy to tell you how this is possible,” Billy said, grinned, and looked at the orchestra members. They didn't look convinced. “I tell you what, the evening my son is due, I'll get in touch with Miss Clara Mae, and she can alert everyone. You can drive here to Uncle Tom's Cabin and gate to the ranch, but bring your instruments. We will play Wagner's 'Siegfried Idyll' softly as Roz goes into labor; similar to what old man Wagner done when his Siegfried was born,” Billy said. That got them laughing and in a good mood again.

Roz came forward and they began to play. From the very first note, the orchestra fell in love with her and how the more full-bodied sound of her fantastic instrument brought to the piece. They played their hearts out, and when they finished, the orchestra gave Roz a standing ovation. She played with perfection.

The next piece was Paul Hindemith's Kammermusik Number 7 for organ and chamber orchestra. Billy explained they would do something different for the organ part. For rehearsal he would play the organ part on the old upright piano they stored in the warehouse. He assigned Aunt Helen's halfling sound and video geniuses to plant micro-mini UHF transmitting microphones onto the pedal harpsichord at the ranch and by the time they got through processing the sound, it still didn't sound like an organ, but it was like a new instrument altogether. It was strong and powerful, brilliant and crisp. It gave a new perspective to Hindemith's answer to the Brandenburg Concertos. Billy played and directed from the keyboard. He damn near made the old upright piano sound like an organ and you could tell the orchestra was taking it in with great delight. They loved anyone who would take a risk, and their young maestro was exactly the kind of conductor they responded to best.

It was after the slow movement, one of Billy's cowboy slaves came through to announce the arrival of Uncle Gus's two daughters and their family. The Colonel and Jennifer went through the gate and invited them to join them at the rehearsal. The ladies wanted to see their mother first, but their husbands wanted to go. Jennifer felt sorry for her nieces and suggested they go with their dads, and the three daughters could have time alone with their mother before she was inundated with the rest of the family. Everyone liked the idea. The Colonel told them to go through the gate, and they would find themselves in a huge warehouse. The men and the young girls disappeared.

The girls knew and worshiped Master Billy. When he stood to welcome them, they immediately recognized him, and rushed Billy with their arms held out shouting like a pack of teenyboppers from the sixties what just caught sight of the Beatles, “Master Billy! Master Billy!” they shouted as they surrounded their hero. Each one had to have a hug and hold him except for the smallest. She stood back from the herd, stared in awe, but smiled the sweetest smile like she was enthralled for the moment in her on private little world. The orchestra laughed at the girls' enthusiasm and enjoyed themselves.

The two doctors were stunned by the gate. “Where is this warehouse? I think I was here once for a medical convention. It was in the McMartin facility in the Woodlands,” Elliot, the VA doctor, said.

“That's exactly where you is, Son,” Hank said, emphasized the 'is' and grinned, “I'll explain later. They still got some music to play,” he added as Gus went to gather his granddaughters.

Billy and the orchestra played the last movement of the Hindemith. They didn't have to practice the final Stravinsky Ebony Concerto because the members of the orchestra played it with Jessie at the same concert he played the Mozart Wind Quintet. Billy said a few words before he left the podium. “I can't tell you good people how proud I am of you. We've come a long way together, but every step has been worth it. I think this will be the Barnyard Concert people will talk about and listen to for years to come. Thank you, one and all, for your dedication and devotion for me and my family,” he said and there wasn't a dry eye in the orchestra. They gave him a standing ovation.

“My God, I just realized...” Don the dentist said quietly to his brother-in-law, “Did you get a good look at the Colonel, Elliot?” he asked.

“Jesus! I thought something was different, but my mind wouldn't let me believe it. He looks like a man in his early forties, and he has both hands. Look at the bulge in his pants. You suppose that's a vanity prosthesis?” Elliot asked.

“Did you pass arithmetic in grade school, Buddy?” Don asked and laughed.

“You mean...?” Elliot paused.

“If he's got a new hand, a new leg, and he probably got his junk replaced – but how?” Don asked.

“Arithmetic my ass! Some dentist you are. Look at his damn teeth. They ain't false, and they ain't implants, Brother,” Elliot zinged his brother-in-law. “And did you notice how much younger Jennifer looks? She didn't look like she's dying to me. Hell she don't even look sick. What the Hell's going on here?” Elliot asked.

“I have no idea. I suppose our best bet is to ask the Colonel,” Don replied.

The musicians were packing up and headed for the gate. They were hungry and they knew wonderful food was waiting for them only moments away. The girls were talking to the dogs and having a great time. Billy noticed one of the girls was wearing male Wranglers, a pair of cowboy boots, a nice western shirt, and her hair was cut like a boys. She even walked like a boy, and her sisters called her Jack. One of the other girls was smaller than the rest and slow. Her sisters and cousins pretty much ignored her, and she didn't join in the conversation with the others. She seemed to be in her on little world. She smiled a lot like she was listening to her own jokes.

Billy took a chance, << Hello in there, Little Sister, can you hear me? >> Billy sent to her.

<< Who speaks to me? Where are you? >> she asked and started looking around when her eyes met Billy's, and a big smile crossed her pretty little face.

<< Yes, it's me. Come to me, Sweetheart, and don't be afraid, >> he sent. She ran to Billy full-out, he picked her up in his arms, and they exchanged kisses. << I saw you holding back when your sisters and cousins came to me. Were you afraid of me? >> he asked.

<< No, sir. My sisters and cousins don't include me much. They make fun of me behind my back. I'm slow with speech, but I can think fast. I don't communicate well. They call me a stupid dummy and Dodo Head. They're not very nice to me. They showed me a picture of an ugly, extinct, flightless bird and told me that's what I was. I just don't feel sure of myself and didn't want to appear stupid when my talk-making part vapor-locks and the words won't come out, >> she replied.

<< What's your name, Pretty Lady? >> Billy asked.

<< The same as my Aunt Jennifer, but they call me Jenny, >> she replied.

<< You ain't slow. Your mind works fine. Here, I'll show you, >> Billy said, took her to the piano, and sat down with her in his lap. << Now watch my fingers on my right hand and listen carefully. >> Billy played the first eight bars of Bach's first Invention. << Now you play it, Jenny, and don't be afraid. I will help you, >> he sent.

Jenny played it perfectly and all conversation in the room stopped. Everyone gathered behind Billy and the little girl to watch. << Good. Now I'll play the next eight bars, but I'll start with the first eight. Understand, Dear? >>

<< Yes, Sir, Master Billy. You teach me song? >> Jenny asked.

<< That's right, Darling. Now pay careful attention, >> Billy sent in reply and played the first eight bars and then the second eight bars.

Jenny played the first eight bars again and the second eight bars without a flaw.

<< Now let's try eight more bars, >> Billy said, and they continue until Jenny could play the right hand part of the Invention from beginning to end perfectly. Every time she played it she got better. Her dad was about to have a stroke. Tears were rolling down Don Robertson's face.

<< Now let's play a duet. I'll play the left hand part and you play the right hand part I just taught you. You go first, and I'll come in after the first eight bars. Okay, Sweetheart? >> he asked.

<< Yes, Master Billy. It sounds fun. Let's make music together, >> she sent back.

Jenny started and Billy came in behind her, and they played the complete Invention without a mistake. The gathered crowd applauded for Billy and Jenny. The little girl got the biggest smile on her face, hugged, and kissed Billy on the cheek. “Thaaa-ann que, Masser Be-wee.  Wuv musik. Wuv you, two times, too,” she said aloud making a homonymic-rhythmatical joke and laughed with glee.    
 
“I love you, ten times too with twenty-two toots and a holler, Jenny,” Billy replied.

Jenny laughed. “Ten times too? Twenty-two toots for only one holler? Thas a lotta' toot'n for just a holler, Masser Be-wee,” she said, threw back her pretty little head, and roared with laughter at their nonsensical exchange.

Don Robertson was so taken with what just happened, he was unconsciously grinding his back molars with anxiety. “You're a very talented little lady, Jenny. And I'll just bet that big cowboy with them big ears, a face full of fears, standing behind me grinding his gears, and shedding big tears is your handsome daddy. Am I right, Dear?” Billy asked, Jenny shook her head, and laughed again at Billy's verbal nonsense.

“That's amazing. I've never see her laugh like that. What...? How...? Is it obvious I'm frustrated because I don't understand, sir? What did you to do to turn her on? Oh, Hell, that ain't what I mean. You know what I'm trying to say,” Don said and blushed.

“How I invited Jenny to step out of her self-imposed shell for a while? We had us a good heart to heart, mind to mind, chat, and I realized your daughter is a very talented little lady. She's got some problems, but they can easily be corrected,” Billy said firmly. “You didn't learn to talk until you were five years old,” Billy said, and Don got a look of incredulity on his face and his jaw dropped open like he was completely flummoxed.

“Big daddy flummoxed, but not Lummox like my Great Granddad Baug,” Jenny said and Billy laughed. She was still listening to Billy's thoughts. As usual he forgot to turn off his channel. She even got old stoic Nick laughing.

“How could you know about my childhood?” Don asked.

“It's a minor genetic flaw you passed down to your daughter. You out-grew it and overcame it. She ain't. More of the gene is activated in Jenny, and she won't grow out of it unless she gets help. I don't mean to be condescending, sir. It might take a while to explain, and Jenny and I are hungry,” Billy said as the last of his crew were finished putting the warehouse back in order and the last of his posse were ready to leave and shut down the gate.

“Go ask Alice, I think she'll know,” Jenny sang perfectly without any slurring or stuttering. Billy winked at Jenny, and she broke up laughing again.

“See! She can rhyme or sing and speak perfectly. That's why we been speaking nonsense,” Billy explained.  

“Are you a doctor?” Don asked.

“Naw, sir, I'm just a brown-dirt cowboy with a high school education. I'm a simple man of the Earth what's been enhanced by a couple of advanced alien races, and they gimme' the power to heal and correct genetic flaws in others,” Billy said.

The big man looked Billy in his eyes to see if he could see any deceit, but he found none. Billy tapped the man's brain and heard clear as day, << My God, I remember now – he's the Walmart Cowboy Jesus! >>

<< While I did heal my little brother, Randy Rutherford, in the Walmart parking lot in Fredericksburg, I ain't no Jesus nor am I the legendary 'second coming.' Don't panic, Don. All will be revealed to you today. By the time you and your family leave our ranch today or tomorrow, you will have a solid understanding of me and my family. There's nothing to fear. We have no axes to grind or agendas to push. Just listen, learn, and enjoy, >> Billy sent to the big cowboy and his eyes blinked.

“That's how you talked with my daughter?” he asked.

“Yes, sir, it is,” Billy replied.

“That's amazing. I heard you clearly. I believe you,” Don said quietly.

“March, April, and may I try me by my very self, Masser-Bee-wee?” Jenny asked brightly.

“Certainly, Jenny, but make it quick. Master Billy's stomach is empty and sometimes it roars like a hungry old bear. Show your daddy what you can do, Pretty Lady,” Billy urged her.

Jenny started at a much faster pace and played the complete Invention perfectly with both hands after watching Billy play his part only once. She was every bit as good as Randy's first attempt at Bach. The gathered group listened with their mouths open. They were stunned, but Billy and his men started cheering, and applauding. Finally, her family joined them. Don went to Jenny and picked her up to lavish her with praise and kisses. For once in her life, little Jenny was the center of attention, and she was wallowing in her moment in the sun.

* * * * * * *
The rest of Billy's posse with the Colonel and Bart, the Colonel's son-in-laws and granddaughters, and several of the dogs returned to the ranch and shut down the gate. The Daniels guests, members of the orchestra, and other entertainment folks were already going through the food lines. Billy invited almost everyone on the ship, and if they were on the entertainment docket they were in line from the smaller Sun Bears to several of the giants. Randy and his merry band of musicians came through a gate from the ship after a morning of practicing the first three Brandenburg Concertos in the tall tower in the castle with his posse to get ready for the concert. They decided since it was being broadcast by live-streaming on the Internet, they would call themselves the Broadband Baroque Brigade or the 'Three Bees' for short. Randy and Jenny formed an unspoken bond from the moment they saw each other. Randy tickled her and she invited him in. << Hi! I'm Randy Rutherford. I can read your aura. You're special. Not like your sister and cousins. You have gifts they don't have, >> he sent.

<< I'm Jenny Robertson. You're like Master Billy, >> Jenny replied.

<< He's ma' big brother. He will be your big brother, if you let him, >> Randy sent.

<< He teach me Invention. Now I can make music, >> Jenny sent.

<< I will take you to my Essengurda family, and they will help you, too, >> Randy said.

<< Your soul is good, Randy. I hope we can be friends, >> Jenny sent.

<< If my brother thinks enough of you to teach you an Invention, you're at home here, Jenny. You are a sister, >> Randy returned and smiled.

* * * * * * *
Billy was surprised there were some new faces, but it was more like a homecoming for those Billy and his men helped in the past several months. Sheriff Andreeson and Little Willie Whistle Pie came through a gate from Tall Pine. The Sheriff told his wife, he and Willy were going hunting and fishing together, and he wouldn't be back until Sunday evening. Willy picked up the Sheriff at his home and they drove to Nellie's Cantina, hid Willy's truck, and walked to the old two-car garage to gate to the ranch with Clyde and Cowboy Andy. Gog was entertaining someone else for the weekend so Willie and the Sheriff decided to bunk-it-in together on the ship. They were assigned their own private apartment – one of the newly refurbished apartments a special crew was working on to upgrade several of them as the number of weekend guests continued to grow.

The Gumbo Angels decided to make an appearance, and they were staying in their own set of apartments. Bubba, and his posse with Hoss and Doug Dewberry were there; along with Cletus and Coo-zone Da'veed. Of course, most of the regulars were there, and the old judge, Judge LaFleur, came with his son Wesley and his wife and little boy, Cody. It was time for another treatment for Cody.   

 The Ondine family was standing in line with René. René ran to Billy and took his hand, “Come, Master Billy and meet my parents, sir,” he said excitedly.

“Lead the way, Son, I'd love to meet your parents,” Billy said, and they walked hand in hand toward the food line.

The Colonel and his family followed, and the two doctors were flabbergasted to hear Billy greet and warmly welcome his new guests in perfect French, as René introduced him to his parents. As a matter of fact, the Colonel was somewhat gob-smacked his nephew could speak French.

“Did you know Billy could speak French, Son?” Gus asked Bart.

“Oui, Monsieur,” Bart said with impeccable inflection.

“You, too, Son?” he asked.

“Fluently, sir. I downloaded the apps to several languages, Colonel. The cloud chambers are phenomenal,” Bart replied.

“Book us in ASAP, my handsome escort,” the Colonel said.

“It's on our schedule for late tomorrow afternoon, sir,” Bart replied.

The French, while sometimes cold to strangers, can be ebullient with those they wish to convey their joy and admiration at first meeting. René's parents were a case in point. Mr. Ondine wasn't satisfied his beautiful wife gave the young cowboy a big kiss on the mouth, he had to have one too, and didn't hold back on his gratitude and admiration for the young man. René looked on and beamed with pride.   

“What language did you take in school, Brother?” Elliot Rigby ask his brother-in-law.

“Spanish,” Don replied.

“I took French. I got pretty good with basic conversation, but I was never that good,” Elliot lamented and smiled.

They turned to the Colonel, “How do we find out more about what's going on here, Dad?” Don asked his father-in-law.

“I introduced you to my fine young Escort, Gentlemen. While Bart is quiet and mannerly to a fault, he also happens to be one of Master Billy's more important cowboy brothers and one of the most respected members of his posse. He's well-loved by his family group. He is a fund of information about the Daniels family, and has made my sojourn into learning about my birth family an easy one,” the Colonel replied, “If'n it's something he doesn't know, Bart's mind is linked with a great reasoning intelligence who can provide him an answer in seconds. Bart and Seth are good friends – on a first-name basis,” he added.

The Colonel's son-in-laws looked at him as if they hoped he was blowing smoke up their asses, but Gus didn't even smile.  

* * * * * * *
Jennifer and her two older sisters came from the big house to join the men. Jennifer was all smiles. Her sisters? Not so much. Their countenance expressed rather dower looks on their faces like they suddenly stepped in a large fresh cow-pie and it stunk.

“Did you have an enjoyable visit with your mother, Dear,” Elliot Rigby asked his wife Dorothy.

“We listened to the complete books of Leviticus and Revelations followed by a sermon about her daughters shunning her in her old age, keeping her granddaughters away from her, and being threatened with eternal damnation in a lake of never ending fire because we didn't honor our dear mother like we should have. If you consider that enjoyable, then yes, it was a lovely visit,” Dorothy said and let out a deep sigh. “Jennifer's right. Our mother will never change. She's filing for divorce from Daddy for irreconcilable differences. Basically, Daddy didn't measure up to her religious standards as a husband. Of course she didn't consider it until she found out Billy Daniels returned Daddy's genitals to him and gave him back his foreskin. It was the straw what done broke the old camel's back,” Dorothy said using Texas speak.

Dorothy continued, “The most remarkable thing is, she's been rejuvenated to look like she's in her mid-forties. Jennifer filled us in on what might seem to us as miracles Billy Daniels and his Cowboy-Angels can accomplish. Our little sister was dying of cancer and now she's cured and looking better than she did when she was in college. Look at Dad. He has a new hand, a new leg, and he's been given his manhood back. He was refurbished to look like he did when he came back from Vietnam over forty years ago. It's almost too remarkable to believe, but here we are living it,” Dorothy said.

* * * * * * *
Slowly the rest of the Colonel's family came on line with his new life and his new found relationship with the Daniels family. Eventually they were shown the video in which Billy proved beyond a shadow of a doubt, the Colonel was his long lost Great Uncle Oran Augustus Daniels.

“You mean we're cousins by blood to the Daniels?” Stefanie asked.

“That's right. As soon as dad can retire and muster out of the service, when he returns, he plans to legally change his name to Oran Augustus Daniels, and I have the blessing of the Daniels family to change mine too. While I greatly appreciate Granddad Baug for lending us a facsimile of his family name, I think he would agree to us becoming Daniels. After all, he was Knighted yesterday by Master Billy using the great sword of legend, Excalibur, as Sir Baug Daniels. So Granddad has become a Daniels family member, too.

The most unusual surprise for the Colonel's daughters was getting to reunite and talk with their surrogate granddad, Baug. Both cried in the big creature's arms and told him how much they missed him. They declared if it wasn't for their dad, him, Deek, and Bafra, they would have turned out just like their mother. After talking with him for a while, and laughing together over remembered incidents, they were convinced he was who he claimed to be. 

* * * * * * *
Immediately after lunch, Billy took a group of his men down to the river to feed the wild Watchers and Daddy Long-legs. He made it a point of taking the Colonel, his son-in-laws, and Baug as part of his feeding posse. Elliot's oldest daughter, they called 'Jack,' wanted to go along and Billy readily agreed. He let her ride in the seat of the wagon with him and Randy. Pierre Ondine and his boys wanted to help and René wouldn't let them go without him. René's dad wanted to see for himself.

Poor Baug had to set aside his great-granddaughter, Jenny. The smallest of the Robertson family observed the Rutherford baby sucking like crazy on her family watcher's teat, and the Colonel urged her to try some of her great-granddad's milk. Once Jenny hooked up to Baug, they thought they might have to get one of them jaws of death which rips auto-bodies apart to get someone out of a wrecked vehicle. The Colonel jokingly told her dad, it was probably the only way they would be able to get her off poor Baug's teat.   

* * * * * * *
While they were down at the river, there came a large number of droans heading their way, but before they could respond, they looked like they hit a solid wall and dropped to the ground, never to fly again. Billy asked Bart if he knew anything about it. Bart was way ahead of him. “Seth told me they knew they were on the way, but your Shedu's threw up an impenetrable invisible wall which would stop and disable them. All you need to do is have the Watchers and the Daddy Long-legs collect them and leave them for us to gather,” Bart reported to Billy.

“Do you think they might have a Trojan Horse component to them what might compromise our defense systems or intelligences?” Billy asked.

“Seth says they didn't find any hint of that kind of plumbing in the last batch. I doubt there would be in these, but it's always better to err on the side of caution. They're mostly pretty basic, with minimal bells and whistles,” Bart replied, “Our take-em-apart and tickle-'em-techs think it's more of an observational tool rather than invasive, but that's not talking about privacy. It has been postulated, whoever is sending them may be testing our defense systems, and the first time they caught us with our pants down,” he added. “They're certainly a nuisance, but they're costing somebody a goodly sum of money to keep doing it and losing them,” Bart allowed.  

“Have our band of Watchers and Daddy Long-legs gather them, but don't bring them on the ship. Take them to one of the barns for them techs to tear apart. Ask them about the possibility of putting a Trojan Horse of our own in one and releasing it to trace it back to it's source,” Billy said.

“Good idea. Will, do, sir!” Bart said. The Colonel's son-in-laws were impressed.

* * * * * * *
Old man Tollefson was with his Daddy Long-leg and his Watcher-Protectors, but this time he was wearing a pair of old tattered overalls; however, so were several of the other Daddy Long-legs who previously were naked. “Looking good, Mr. Tollefson! You men are welcome on the Daniels ranch anytime. I ain't got me no thing about modesty, but I'm glad to see more men wearing something to protect them,” Billy said.

“Yeah, I contacted the Masons, the Lion's Club, and the VWF and asked for donations of wearable older overalls or Wranglers for the Daddy Long-legs, and they come through pretty good for us. We hope to get more of these men clothed before winter gets here,” Carl Tollefson said.

“I'll put out a call to our neighbors and make an announcement at the concert this afternoon. We'll be starting up a slush fund for the poor in our area at our new Grange Co-op Financial Center. We'll see if we can do you some good and maybe help them men a bit,” Billy said.

“It sure would be appreciated, Son,” Carl said.

“You're welcome to come to our barbecue and concert with your boy and Pete. You're welcome to bring your Long-leggers and Watchers with you,” Billy said.

“I do come to your concerts. Ain't miss a Saturday in two months. It's the only way I get any exercise to speak of, and them boys push me at a pretty good clip. Last stress test I had at the VA, they couldn't make the damn treadmill go fast enough at the steepest incline to make me breathe heavy. They said I got the heart of a thirty year old man. So, it must be doing me some good,” Carl said and grinned.  
 
“Alway glad to have you men join us. Eat, relax, and I hope you enjoy the show. We got us a good'un today,” Billy said and winked at the old man.

“Fine looking young man you got by your side, Master Daniels; a right fine looking buckaroo,” Carl said before he left with his posse.

“Why, thank you, Mr. Tollefson. Young Jack, here, is a blood cousin of mine visiting our ranch for the first time. He asked if I would allow him to come with us to help feed our visitors, and I told him I would be right proud to have him along. We hope he comes back often, so you might see him around quite a bit, sir,” Billy said.

Billy's new cousin, Jack, was working next to Billy handing out paper bags with three pieces of fruit in it. She was very quiet, but Billy could tell she was taking everything in, and for a while could imagine herself to be a young cowboy and being accepted as such. After Billy explained her presence to Mr. Tollefson, Jack stood up straighter, and seemed to be proud of himself.

“Thanks Cousin Billy for them nice words. I don't want you to think I'm a wus or nothing, but I feel comfortable around you. I don't know why I was surprised at you calling me a boy. I watched a man what is much more than a brown dirt cowboy this morning have compassion for my little cousin, Jenny, and I knew you would understand and have compassion for me,” Jack said.

“When you's with me, Cowboy, you're just another one of my posse. I ain't got me no problem think'n on you as one of ma' little brothers, Jack. How old are you, Son?” Billy asked and could tell his cousin was eating it up like Billy's words were the sweetest dessert he ever tasted.

“I'll be eleven in September, sir,” Jack replied.

“Have you shown signs of the highly anticipated but much dreaded Pooh-bear-tea, as my young cowboys call it?” Billy asked and grinned.

Jack laughed at Billy's play on words, “Naw, sir, not yet, but I'm dreading it like the plague. The truth is, I'm trapped in the wrong damn body, sir. I know I should have been a boy,” Jack said. He stood tall in his boots but didn't breakdown.

“How do your parents feel about your plight, Son,” Billy asked.

“They try to be progressive and liberal minded. My dad thinks it's a phase I'm going through, and he's a respected doctor. Go figure. He thinks it's something I will grow out of once I go through puberty. Mom's not so sure, but she don't encourage me either way. They spent a lot of money on specialist and shrinks, but they were mostly fools who just took their money and wouldn't make a stand one way or the other. They're masters at telling parents what they want to hear, and they herd them like sheep to get the big bucks,” Jack replied.

“Would you like for me to talk with your parents, Jack?” Billy asked, “I just might be able to get my boot in the door if I ask the Colonel right nice-like. He owes me a solid,” Billy added.

“I wouldn't mind. I think you got a better grip on what I'm going through than any person I ever met. I overheard my parents talking. They didn't know I was in the next room reading. They said you gave my granddad back his hand, his leg, his penis and testicles and not only that, you gave him back his foreskin. Is it the solid you're talking about?” Jack asked.

“You know I ain't gonna' lie to you, Son. The Code of the West won't allow it, and h'it just ain't the Cowboy Way. I think you's familiar with the concept and know a cowboy's word is his bond. A cowboy just ain't gonna' lie to his brother less'n the cowboy in question is an ornery no good cuss what ain't never deserved the name in the first place. Yes, I gave your granddad back his hand, and his cock and balls so's when he's feel'n lonely he can play wiff' his'self,” Billy said and giggled. He got Jack laughing, and Jack gently punched Billy in the arm and blushed. Billy continued, “I repaired every broken part of the Colonel's body, removed every battle scar, gave him a new leg, and refurbished him to be a man about forty years old,” Billy replied.

“I know it might be a long shot and maybe a dumb question, but do you have another set of cock and balls sitting around in a drawer somewhere nobody ain't using you could gimme', sir?” Jack asked.

Billy laughed good naturedly, “Unfortunately, h'it don't work that way, Son. In the name of some unknown god, I wish't it did – I wish't it was that simple, but the truth is, it ain't. It's a bit more complicated than that; however, I love the metaphor – cain't fault chu' none for that. It was very creative. That's why I need to talk with your parents, Son,” Billy said.

“Could you change me, Master Billy, and make me what I'm suppose to be, sir?” Jack asked.

“I can, but doing it is another thing. I'll tell you what, Son, I'll look into the matter further, and I'll get back to you. After I test your DNA and talk with your folks to get a better pitcher, if I think it's the right thing to do, I'll go to bat for you, but I won't promise I can hit a home run. There are just too many variables. Do you understand, Son?” Billy asked firmly.

“Not totally, sir, but I know intuitively you ain't blow'n smoke up my butt. You make a Hell of a lot more sense than anybody else I talked with. Them other clowns don't know their asses from a whole in the ground nor what it's like to be living a life-sentence as a prisoner in a body where you don't belong. I respect my parents and I'm good to my sisters. I never done nothing to deserve this. I'll gladly settle for your promise to go to bat for me. You're the first person in my life what ever truly offered,” Jack lamented.   

“Until then, you still gonna' be my buckaroo brother?” Billy asked and smiled.

“Womb to tomb, Bossman,” Jack said. Randy looked over, winked at Billy, and grinned.

<< Ju' tell her that, Bossman? >> Billy sent.

<< Naw, sir, he done come up with that one his'self, >> Randy sent and grinned wickedly.

<< I deserved that, Bossman. Here, we just done bonded as brothers, and I go and refer to 'him' as 'her.' I gotta' be careful about that. Thanks for keep'n my sensitivities in line, Pod'na, >> Billy sent and grinned.

<< An easy mistake, Big Bro. A mere slip of the tongue, but I'd rather have Jack for a brother than some cowboys I seen around town, >> Randy sent.

<< I hear that, Little Brother, >> Billy returned.

* * * * * * *
By the time the Watcher – Daddy Long-leg feeding posse returned, it was time to start the Barnyard Concert. The newly formed Broadband Baroque Brigade already took the stage and were in their positions. They asked several members of the orchestra to join them to get a fuller sound and as young as some of the player were they looked very professional. They were ready, chomping at the bit, and pulling on the reins. Billy came on stage and the audience went bananas cheering and applauding for him. He waved, bowed, and walked down to the first row where the Robinson family were sitting with the rest of the Daniels family on the front row. He walked over to Don Robertson, took his hand and shook it. “May I borrow your lovely young daughter, Jenny, for a few minutes, Brother Don?” he asked.

“Certainly, sir, if she's willing,” Don replied looking down at Jenny in her mother's lap.

“My will is in my master's arms; is where my heart belongs,” Jenny said perfectly and raised her little arms to Billy. Billy gently took her and pulled her into his arms. He gave her a quick kiss on her little cheek, turned and walked back up the steps onto the stage. He went to the microphone and the audience went silent so everyone could hear. “I'd like to open this Barnyard Concert by introducing you to one of the youngest members of my family, my littlest cousin, Jenny Robertson," Billy said.

The audience went “Awwww,” she was so cute. "We're here as learned musicians to play for your entertainment, but every darn one of us started somewhere around the age of Jenny here. We represent a point where we have learned and practiced to a cutting edge, but we should never forget our beginnings and the passion what sparked us to sit down at a piano, take up a bow, blowed through the mouthpiece of a horn, or began to play every other instrument you see in our orchestra. I spoke with Jenny earlier and ask if she would be our opening number for our concert today, and she graciously told me she would. Are you ready, Sweetheart?” Billy asked and stole another kiss.

“My heart is full for you, to play, and what I play will say, to all, let it be a good day,” Jenny said and every heart on the ranch melted.

“Jenny ain't had a long career. We sat down together this morning after rehearsals with the orchestra, and I taught her this piece. So you are a rare audience who are getting to hear a fine new musician in the Daniels family make her first debut on our stage here in the Hill Country,” Billy said.

“What is he doing, Don?” Stefanie asked her husband like she was about to panic for her daughter.

“Shuuu, sit back, relax, and prepare to be amazed, Dear Wife. We never knew, but you have given birth to a child prodigy. I will explain the details later,” Don replied.

Billy stood Jenny on her feet, took her little hand in his, and walked her over to the large Yamaha concert grand, and lifted her onto the seat. “Are you comfortable, Dear One, keeper of your master's heart? Remember your master is with every step to help your heart express your art. Any time you're ready, Jenny,” Billy said and squatted down on his boot heels next to her.

Jenny placed her hands on the great keyboard and began to play. She played Johann Sebastian Bach's Invention number one from beginning to end at a goodly pace and didn't make a mistake. She was flawless. The audience was so taken with her they jumped to their feet and gave the small musician a standing ovation. Jenny held her arms out to Billy and he took her and stole another kiss. “You were wonderful, Jenny. You see you ain't no dummy dodo bird. Now do you believe me?” Billy asked.

“I believe my master's true as his two eyes are blue. Thank you, sir,” Jenny replied.

Billy sat her down and walked hand-in-hand with the small child to the front of the stage while the audience was still applauding. “Now, take a bow, Jenny, like this...” Billy bowed from the waist and Jenny joined him. The audience only applauded louder. “See they love you, Jenny. Would you like to thank them?” Billy asked.

“Yes, Master Billy,” she replied.

Billy took her in his arms and moved to the microphone. "Jenny would like to say something. Go ahead-on, Sweetheart,” Billy urged her.

“Thank you every one and have a good day,” she said in a small voice, and the audience went crazy again. Billy caught Stefanie's eye, grinned, and winked at her. She was smiling from ear to ear. Billy took Jenny back to sit with her parents and family.

* * * * * * *
Billy announced the newly formed Broadband Baroque Brigade would perform the first three Bach Brandenburg concertos, and took his place at the pedal harpsichord to conduct and play. The players were at their peak and flawless. If the intricately beautiful music of Bach didn't capture a listener's heart, the breathtaking brilliance of the musicians grabbed them and wouldn't let go. Cloog and Aeron were brilliant on the coach horns in the first concerto and the McMartin boys, Rory and Calhoun shined brightly. Aeron expressed an interest in the horns. Cloog taught him the basics then took him to the Essengurda. They graciously enhanced the boy, and they made a perfect pair for the Brandenburgs. Gog played his bassoon flawlessly.   

The second Brandenburg Zeke continued to shine. Billy bought Zeke a more modern piccolo trumpet than what he was using. It was an old trumpet they found in the attic of the castle. Billy was assured by his research team the new sparkling silver trumpet was the best money could buy. Billy didn't even react to the price. He gave the go-ahead to buy it. He felt it was a solid investment for two musically bonded souls, his and Zeke's. It took Zeke very little time to master the instrument and his Bach was perfection. It was not only brilliant, it was heavenly. Zeke became the Gould of the trumpet. People all over the world were so in awe of Zeke's playing, they played the video recording of the second Brandenburg over and over. The piece went viral overnight on the Net. People were astounded. They just couldn't believe playing like that could be achieved by a human – and, they were right.

Roz was just the right fit for a break in the baroque and the more modern music. She played better than Billy could ever remember. She shared with Billy she was playing for their son and she knew he was listening. Roz thought it wouldn't be long before they could began to communicate with each other. The audience cheered and applauded for several minutes. They gave her a standing ovation. They loved everything about the piece and Roz was one of their own.

And so, the rest of the concert went without a flaw. Jessie and his wind quintet brought down the house. It was a lovely reading of the piece and became a standard by which all other performances were compared. Billy's playing the sexed-up pedal harpsichord for the Hindemith piece was a brilliant achievement, and the audience responded in kind. It was one of the most memorable Barnyard Concerts anyone could remember and Billy wondered if his increased family had anything to do with his joy in the day.

It was the Colonel's family's first experience of the Saturday barbecue and Barnyard Concert. They were amazed how quickly the musicians could change from extremely difficult classical music to the get-down country music part of the concert. They were hooked and knew they would be spending much more time at their relatives ranch. The two families decided to stay overnight in the big house so they could have an evening meal with the self-appointed matriarch of the family. It was a quiet and somber meal – almost like there was a great pall over the people around the table.

“Did you get to see any of the concert, Mother?” the eldest daughter Dorothy asked.

“I listened, but I didn't watch it. I was forced to listen to that heathen clap-trap because my attendant nurse insisted on watching,” she replied with sufficient venom to kill an army.

“I hardly consider the music of Bach, Mozart, Hindemith, Stravinsky, and Vaughn-Williams, the music of heathens, Mrs. Halfablap. Everyone of those composers wrote deeply moving religious music as well as ventures into even more sublime areas to increase the human intellect. Perhaps if you were better educated you would think differently,” Zelma said quietly with the sting of a deadly viper.   

Wilma didn't say another word. She was sharply, but politely reprimanded by her superior. Fortunately, she knew when to withdraw her fangs, but then she turned on her own brood like a mother animal will do from time to time and eat their young. “Why are you still allowing that child to wear men's clothes and calling her 'Jack'? Her name is Jacquelin! And why do you continue to baby, Jenny. You're doing nothing to help her come out of her shell. Neither of you girls are fit to be parents!” Wilma proclaimed.

“And you're a mean-spirited old poopy-head who would cause scooby-doo to shed!” Jenny shouted at Wilma.

Everyone around the table broke up laughing. “Way to go, Jenny-girl! I love you, Sweetheart!” Jack exclaimed and laughed with the others. “You are so out-of-touch with reality, Lady, I'm ashamed to think on you as my grandmother!” she added.

“Weeeell!” Wilma barked indignantly like she was just nailed to her own personal cross.

The rest of the meal was eaten in total silence. It was so unusual around the Daniels table. Most of the time you couldn't hear yourself think – there would be so many interesting conversations going on. Kate decided maybe Billy was right about religion after-all.

Billy didn't intrude on the Halfablap's supper in the big house. He had his own problems going for the moment. He wondered how long they could keep up the pace of the Barnyard Concerts when they would soon have a new, lavish, hall to host concerts. If he gave up the Barnyard Concerts the Watchers and Daddy Long-legs wouldn't have anything to look forward to, and he was almost certain it contributed to their becoming less wild and more used to humans and their ways. Several of the Grange families adopted any number of them. As supreme commander over the beasties on Earth, he couldn't let them down. It was at that very moment Billy had a vision. He would build safe shelters on all Grange ranches for the wild Watchers and the Daddy Long-legs.


End of Chapter 90 ~ Seek Him What Made Them Seven Stars
Copyright ~©~ 2015 ~ 2017 ~ Waddie Greywolf ~ All Rights Reserved
Mail to: Waddie Greywolf <[email protected]>
WC = 26,471
05/15/2015
01/16/2017

Bow Of Shame ~  http://oglaf.com/son-of-kronar/
UFOD = Uniform Of The Day.
Mozart Piano Quintet In E flat major K. 452   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t196Vh-nPno
Hindemith: Kammermusik 7: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xD52SYpKnIQ
Stravinsky: Symphony In Three Movements: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n9oY_cikDl0
Vaughan Williams: The Lark Assending: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZR2JlDnT2l8
Stravinsky: Ebony Concerto:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ccwFZ6-COec