7Stars

Seek Him What Made Them Seven Stars
Waddie Greywolf

Chapter 97

Schrodinger's Candidate: She holds a quantum super-position. On any given issue, she contains and displays every position and their opposite simultaneously, until you ask her. Then, her wave function collapses, and she takes a definite position; however, that position is random, and the probabilities can be computed by integrating the square of the magnitude of her truth-wave function over the desired range of positions for which you want to know the probability. Consequently, the paradox is, it changes when we try to observe it. She becomes a frustrating criminal elitist scion who plays an endless Whack-a-mole game for which she can never be held accountable. ~ Tyndall Wildleek

Earlier in the day, the twin watchers, Zarob and Boraz of Boomer's uncles, Gregor, and Albrecht, returned to Retikki Prime. They were each carrying a large, one-hundred pound sack of slave chow for their enjoyment which Billy gladly gifted to them. Zarob and Boraz were so impressed by the quality of substance and flavor, they found it much to their liking. The giant beasts hoped against reality there would be no one around the gate when they came through onto the castle grounds so they might carry their treats to their apartment without discovery. Unfortunately, such was not the case, as their two masters were standing not more than ten feet away when they came through the gate.

Their big hearts melted and a feeling of sadness came over them they hadn't experienced since childhood when they were punished by their parents and a favorite toy was taken away from them for a time. They knew they would have to explain and tell the truth about their good fortune. After carefully explaining to their master's about the slave chow Master Billy and his family kept available for their watchers and any other creatures who were never fully satisfied with the same food humanoids eat, their masters became curious. “Do we not feed you well enough, Faithful Warriors?” Albrecht asked like he was wounded.

“Oh, no! I mean – oh, yes, Master! You feed us quite well. I assure you, we have no complaints, Sire. We're proud and honored to be in your service. We have never felt slighted,” Boraz said.

“It's just...” Zarob came to his brother's defense – then realized he had nothing, and trailed off like he was trying to find the right word.

“What is it, Son?” Gregor asked.

“This chow from Earth is different. It tastes like an exceptionally fine treat, Sire – like something we haven't experienced since childhood. It's not only filling and nutritious, it's like eating a comforting dessert for your main meal,” Boraz tried to explain.

“Master Billy's human slaves eat it for their midday meal, and many times so does Master Billy and his staff. You know how finicky and picky humanoids can be about their food, Sire,” Zarob rushed to support his brother.

“Indeed we do, Son. You won't get an argument from us,” Albrecht replied and smiled, “If it's as tasty as you claim, I hope you plan to share a modicum of your windfall with your masters,” he added.

“Right away, Sire! As soon as we store it in our rooms and return,” Boraz said.

Gregor waved them away and the two Watcher/Protectors shouldered their large sacks of tasty booty and took them off to their private rooms. They returned to the outdoor garden with a metal bowl for each of their masters. The giant beasts bowed deeply as they presented their offering of Earth slave chow and two nutrient biscuits to the Lord High Chancellors. Gregor and Albrecht thanked their slaves and each tried a nugget of the chow. Their eyes lit up, and big smiles spread across their faces. They each ate their large bowl of chow and biscuits. They let out huge belches like it was the best thing they ate in a good while.

“Remarkable! Exceptional!” exclaimed Albrecht.

“Delicious!” exclaimed Gregor.

Boraz looked at his twin brother with a look of despair. “Would you care for more, Masters?” he asked while Zarob sucked in his breath and held it.

“No, that was sufficient, but thank you for your generous offer, Son; and, thanks for sharing with us,” Gregor replied, and Zarob let out a sigh like they were saved from losing their treats. “However, we want you to go back to Earth, and return with Master Billy and his family when they're ready to come to us. Take this bag of gold coins and buy us as many bags of slave-chow and biscuits he can comfortably allow us without running short for his family. Tell him we'd like a hundred bags but won't expect full delivery until after they have returned from their visit to Retikki Prime. We'd like some to serve to our guests. There's a hundred gold coins in that bag. On his planet, it should be enough to cover his expense and make a goodly profit for him and his family,” Gregor said.

Boraz looked at his brother, and without a word passing between them, Zarob nodded to his twin sibling. Boraz spoke, “If you would like, Sires, we will be happy to leave our sacks with you for your enjoyment and replace them with two of the bags we bring back with us,” Boraz said.

“We accept your generous and magnanimous offer, Son. We will be most grateful for your thoughtfulness,” Albrecht answered for him and Gregor.

The two giant watchers hurried off to their apartment and returned to the garden with their two precious sacks of slave chow and biscuits given to them by Master Billy. A gate to Earth was already open for them. They bid their masters farewell, turned, and walked through the portal.

* * * * * * *
Boraz and Zarob's gate exited them into the dungeon area on Captain Nick's ship. The six Angels who represented their six-hundred angel-brothers rescued from the cavern beneath Mount Ararat by Master Billy and his family, were gathering with the six giant Cat-Men to enjoy the Dedication Concert with the others already assembled in the great hall. Billy gave the six angels new names. The spokes-person named Utnapishtimel he named Noah Carpenter; Jetrel became Jeeter Boatswain; Mahoninel was changed to Mahon Gardner; Neaquel would answer to the name Neal Stout; Samsapeel his master renamed, Samwise Gamgee; and Yomyael, Billy named Yom Copper. Billy didn't need to give the six Tom-Cats new names. They were of one family who father's name was McPhee. Their names, Locard McPhee; Grady McPhee; Sean McPhee; Declan McPhee; Claron McPhee; and Sweet McPhee worked well for Billy and his family.

They walked into the great hall and seated themselves in back of their prisoners all decked out in their new cowboy duds. The prisoners were agog at the angels and some rough looking cats who looked like they were permanent residents in a Gold's Gym. “Who or what the fuck are they?” Vic Bodega asked loudly. Everyone in the hall heard him and stopped in their tracks. An embarrassed silence stronger than highly tempered cold steel filled the hall with disbelief someone in their presence could be so uncouth, rude, and antisocial to their guest.

Lieutenant Roy Boynton; Captain Bart Langstrom; Colonel Hank; Deek; Bafra; a pregnant Baug and his mate General Heavy-drop Boynton; and Lieutenant General Tate, decided to watch the concert inside the ship to answer any questions the new prisoners might have. “You wanna' answer that rude and thoughtless bastard's anti-alien question about our visiting friends, Buckaroo Jack?” Bart asked ten year old Jack and winked.

“They're new folks from around our quadrant of the universe, who have dropped in to become friends with us, sir. They are visiting to get to know us better, relax, and have a good time. There will be time after the concert to move about, mingle, and introduce yourselves to them. Them two big Watchers are twins from a beautiful planet in the Andromeda Galaxy. Their names are Boraz and Zarob. Them six handsome Angels are Noah, Jeeter, Mahon, Neal, Samwise, and Yom. From left to right, them fine looking Warrior-Cats are Locard, Grady, Sean, Declan, Claron, and Sweet.

“How can you tell them big Tom-cats apart, Son?” Jack's granddad, the Colonel, asked.

“We spent most of the afternoon together, and I got to know them as a humble and caring race of Warriors. I quite like them and I paid attention, sir,” Jack said innocently, and got a laugh from everyone. The McPhee Cat-Men fell in love with the fearless young cowboy.

“How come them big Cat-Men critters got Scotch-Irish names?” Spike Mulligan asked.*

“Their father was a Scotsman but his mother was Irish. Since they are his progeny, it seemed only logical they took on their father's last name of 'McPhee,'” Jack replied like it was a fact.

“How could a human give birth to a litter of six giant cats?” Mulligan asked.

“He didn't sire them in the common way, Mr. Mulligan. They didn't have no ordinary birth. Doctor McPhee created them in a laboratory borrowing tissue and DNA from the family's old tomcat,” Jack said and smiled.

“That's impossible!” Mulligan exclaimed.

“Maybe in your universe, sir, but I assure you, they're quite common in several other galaxies. The McPhees are a wonderful species and one of the more successful creations of men tampering with nature and advanced science. If you stroke them just right, scratch them behind their ears, they will purr for you. They are very good at Soccer, but god-forbid you should ever leave a basket of wool knitting balls unattended. We're having some special Western boots made for them to protect their feet from poisonous snakes, cockle-burrs, and bullhead stickers we have here in Texas. They should be ready soon,” Jack added.

“Puss-in-boots?” Mulligan asked.

“Naw, sir, Mr. Mulligan, Tom-cats-in-boots. They's all males,” Jack corrected him politely.

“This goes waaaay beyond what them NSA 'heads' sent us out to find, but why don't I feel intimidated by them like I do them other aliens?” Orin Sawin asked his leader quietly so they wouldn't be overheard.

“To be honest, to hear our superiors talk about aliens, I neither entertained the smallest notion there might be such a thing, nor did I imagine there could be species out there who might be interested in being friends with humans, let alone express any concerns about our well being,” Bodega replied.

“Maybe it's because of the history of our human heritage, which clearly shows a more advanced society wishing to gain new territory already inhabited by a more primitive culture, will never consider the natives rightful owners even though they have roamed and hunted the land for thousands of years. On the contrary, because the natives never understood the concept of property ownership, and never made themselves a flag, the new people considered them subhumans and hoodwinked them into believing they were friendly until they gained control. Then it was too late, and the natives became just another obstacle, no more important than potentially dangerous wildlife, a pestilence, which they systematically eradicated to gain control of the land for themselves,” Sawin said.

“But there's no proof it's a universal constant. Perhaps it's unique to man. Until we have more contact, there's no way of knowing,” Bodega challenged Sawin's comment.

“How much contact do we need to correct the errors of our past? I hope you realize, Dear Leader, my Captain, reasoning like that goes against everything we got drilled into us in our corporate NSA training. We were told to eradicate Bigfoot, even though there was no verified proof they presented much loss for our overlords. We seen many of them huge critters around this place, and while at first take, they may appear frightful, I've seen young children run to them for affection, suck their teats, and make obscene noises like it's the best dang thing they ever tasted. I've even heard one Watcher, as they call them, sing to a kid in a low rumbling tone,” Sawin responded.

“Nevertheless, Runt, I ain't likely to convert to their way of thinking or joining them around a campfire, holding their big paws to sing 'Kumbaya.' However, it would be a great feather in our caps to expose something as well organized as these men seem to be. I'm certain our headquarters ain't got a clue about what's going on here. We need to keep our mouths shut and observe everything we can; but I'll have to agree, these people seems to be much more advanced and considerably less threatening than anything the NSA told us about. Then, again, just how intelligent can a cowboy be?” Bodega said snidely and grinned.

Sawin didn't agree or return his Captain's mockery. The small man held his own strong opinions. Sawin took Billy's speech seriously about not trying to communicate with their leaders. He looked at Bodega, smiled, and replied, “Oh, I don't know about that, Billy Daniels impressed me. He has created a major work of art – a fine piece of music he composed to set a flag for his personal genius upon a high mountain for everyone to admire. I sat here beside you and could almost feel your excitement and enjoyment. I could also feel your anger, resentment, and frustration; however, I have a strong feeling you never attempted to use your talent to create something. Until you write a piece of music as equally wonderful or better, I don't think you have any right to slight him. The green-eyed mother of jealousy and envy gives birth to ugly monsters. I know you have it in you to be a better man than your comment allowed, Bull,” Sawin said firmly.

Vic Bodega hung his head and shook it from side to side, “Thanks, Jiminy Cricket, I suppose I deserved that,” he said quietly.

Sawin continued, “Actually, I had a vision of planting one of these fine cowboy boots I'm wearing up your ass as far as I can kick it to awaken your hard head to the possible future we might have if we play our cards right and join Master Billy and his family. I see a much better and more secure future for us if we catch his train, jump on board, and haul our asses on-down the track to wherever they might take us,” Sawin said and grinned.

“I could lose everything I got?” Bodega replied.

“I don't think so, Captain. I seen enough, and heard enough to believe Billy when he said he and his people can manage everything, and we wouldn't lose a penny of our private investments to join his family. How many opposing political factions would offer you such a deal? Ninety-nine percent of radical political groups including most religions would have already killed us and told god we died. What did them corporate money grubbing apes offer us beyond an average wage with little or no perks, no health insurance, and set us up to be eliminated if we were compromised so we couldn't be traced back to them? If you want to go back to eating corporate bullshit, do it on your own. I won't be a part of it. Neither will I help your week cause, nor will I make excuses for you,” Orin said firmly.

“The Daniels family might have a dark underbelly we don't know about,” Bodega replied.

“Then let's find out. It's obvious they ain't gonna' let us stray very far – for a while anyway,” Sawin said like he thought it was a reasonable compromise.

“I can already tell you're biased,” Bodega said.

“Bet chore' ass, Buckaroo! And you'd be a dang fool not to be – blind as a bat, without compassion or human decency, as to what's going on around you. You can't claim they're secretive or try to hide shit from us. If you're worried, test them, if you must. Push them to see just how much they'll share with us,” Sawin said. “I have a strong feel'n them men got all their bases covered, and you'd be downright stupid to even try to steal second base – let alone make a foolish gamble to run for home,” Sawin added strongly.

* * * * * * *
After the classical portion of the concert for the dedication of the huge auditorium, the choir and the orchestra took their seats among the folks who came to the concert. The watchers continued to wear their white bow-ties like they were merit badges. There were many visitors who shook their great paws and complemented them lavishly on their contribution to the great sound of the chorus. They were also a big hit with the children of all ages.

Billy and his family promised a short Country and Western program, but the audience wanted more. Billy extended the down-home festivities another couple of hours, and everyone seemed pleased. Billy and his posses made it their goal to learn as many new and different western songs as possible. They dug into the past to find classic Western tunes by the Son's of the Pioneers, Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys, and several other song writers including those of the late Twentieth Century. It was like listening to a musicologist recreation of the history of country music and the crowd was drinking it up like cool, clear water.

Unfortunately, everyone missed the cows dancing; however, most were already morphed and were living in the several extra bunkhouses Billy's family constructed. Approximately thirty were left, but they would soon be able to morph and take up residence on Bubba's ranch. Their cowboy brothers and sisters erected a large shelter, an extra barn, down near the gate for them to gather inside during inclement weather while they continued to do an excellent job of guarding the front gate. Archie and Edith installed one of their universal heating elements near the roof of the building which kept the inside warm and dry.

On one side, facing the road up to the front gate of the ranch, they installed large windows the guard-cattle could see through to tell if anyone might be coming to the ranch. If they were unsure of an approaching vehicle, they would leave their warm shelter, mosey out, and stand guard until the party either drove by, or pulled into the entryway and identified themselves. They were provided extra food for the day and some of the more thoughtful regulars of Billy's family brought large sacks of carrots or small apples for treats. Billy asked his tech men to install a large holo-video screen with an excellent sound system so they could enjoy the concert.

* * * * * * * *
After the guests were gone, Billy, and his family took a rest period until supper. They didn't get much rest. There were too many final small details to be approved and considered to make a massive move of their sound technology and personnel to Retikki Prime to say nothing of assigning rooms and seeing to the comfort of over a hundred orchestra players; however, Billy was learning to delegate responsibilities, and he came to rely on his family technicians to produce miracles. The K.Ds, Kinder Dervishes, as Aunt Helen referred to her small technicians never let him down. Not only were they extremely competent, but Aunt Helen, herself, was also a walking mental I-pad, who possessed superior organizational skills and abilities to get the largest projects done quickly with what seemed to be the greatest of ease. Billy had his own anachronism for Aunt Helen. Because she seemed to be imbued with magic, he called her his '3B Magic Lady' (Bibbity-bobbity-boo) She found a comfortable ally and metaphorical Staff Sergeant in Jennifer Halfablap. Aunt Helen would give orders and Jennifer would see to it they were carried-out in a timely manner. Jennifer proved herself to be a God-send for the small tigress of an organizer.

* * * * * * *
In front of the twelve prisoners, Billy invited Harely-Buck Johnson, Earl Hickson, and Orville Higginbothem to have supper with the family in the big dining hall. Earl and Harley were always together. They worked together, ate together, shared living stations together – Harley in the bottom bunk, and Earl in the top. Most of the time when Harley-Buck wasn't with his dad, they hung around with each other. Orville was always welcome to join them when he was visiting on the Daniels ranch with his master. They looked like a matched trio of three incredibly handsome well-built body builders. Billy explained the food would be left-overs from the dinner feed. It was all right with them. He told the three of them to wear their harnesses with their leather kilts and cowboy boots.

Harley-Buck asked if he could wear his horns and Billy smiled. “I become so used to them horns, I can't imagine you without them. They shore-nuff set you apart from the rest of the herd,” Billy said.

The big-horned cowboy blushed, “Thanks, Master Billy, I'm right proud of 'em, sir,” Harley-Buck replied and winked at Earl and Orville. Orville nudged Earl with his elbow, and Earl cupped his hand to whisper something to Harley-Buck. “Ah, c'moan, you two! I know you men got big enough sets of balls. What's the problem? They shrink up on you?” he confronted them and laughed. Earl and Orville looked at each other, blushed, and shook their heads. “They's worried about ask'n you for a favor, 'cause it might make them look greedy, and it would embarrass them should you say 'no,' Master Billy,” Harley-Buck added.

Billy grinned, “You men want a set of horns like your brother's, but you's afraid to ask 'cause you think you ain't done nothing as heroic as him to deserve them?” Billy asked, point blank.

Earl stiffened his back and stood at attention. Orville follow suit, and nodded to Earl, “Yes, sir, Master Billy,” they said in unison.

“Well, I don't know's you have to do something so dramatic as what chore' brother done. What he done was downright foolhardy, and dangerous, bordering on insanity. If you remember, I come down on him pretty hard. If I recall correctly, he come down pert-damn hard in that runaway pony's saddle. He walked around the ranch like an old cowboy with a bad case of rickets for a couple of days,” Billy said and got the men laughing, “You men come to us within in weeks of one another. You kept your noses clean and you worked just as hard as your brother to prove yourselves. Your masters are pleased and proud of you. I'll ask Master Bubba for his approval, Orville, and if he agrees, I don't see why we can't fix you men up with a nice pair of horns like your brother's. We'll do it after supper, so's you can wear them to Ritikki Prime tomorrow if you like. I need to take care of Buckaroo Jack Rigby this e'nin anyway. His parents gave him and me the official 'go-ahead' to change his gender and gift him with a nice, big cowboy cock.

The twelve new men looked on and listened to the conversation with awe. They wondered if they were being set-up and the men's banter was a joke on them. Colonel Hank Halfablap saw their confusion, discomfort, and consternation. “Get use to it, Gentlemen! Goes on all the time around these here parts. My Grandson Jack, here, who is one of Lieutenant Swift's staff to look after you men, was born with a woman's plumbing because of a genetic flaw in his mother's DNA. It was only recently confirmed by her dad who is a doctor for the VA hospital in Kerrville. Master Billy has my DNA on file and will make the change. This e'nin, he will build young Buckaroo Jack a penis exactly like mine was at his age. Jack's just beginning to show signs of starting puberty, and we wanna' get it done before his body starts pump'n them confusing male hormones into his system,” the Colonel explained.

“My God, I thought Jack was a young cowboy. What is Billy Daniels – some kind of God or an Angel from on-high?” Dalton Bayless, one of the new men, asked.

“While it may appear that way to you men, I assure you, he's just a Hill Country cowboy what's been enhanced multiple times by several advanced alien races. He's been gifted with far greater powers other men and many gods of myth and superstition have claimed to possess but never did,” Colonel Hank replied.

“So that's how he became so good at music,” Vic Bodega challenged.

“Not so!” the Colonel exclaimed, “Billy's grandma taught him music from the time he was big enough to sit at a piano. He was already a fine musician before he was enhanced his first time. His enhancements only matured and enriched his natural talents,” the Colonel added.

* * * * * * *
Supper on Saturday nights were usually pretty open for discussing any reasonable topic. That particular Saturday evening, the entire Daniels family and their guests made it an exceptionally fun and memorable experience. There was much conversation about the music they performed earlier in the afternoon and how excited they were to be going to another planet in a galaxy far, far away to perform much of the same music. Billy couldn't promise an exact duplicate of the previous concert because the people of Retikki Prime and the representatives from other worlds in several different galaxies might enjoy hearing something else. Many species of aliens never experienced music like the humans from Earth manage to evolve and create, and their other, much smaller, performances became the stuff of legend.

To start off the evening, Zarob and Boraz, the handsome twin watchers, set a large leather sack before Master Billy. For them, it was like an average money sack, but Billy could barely lift it from the table with both hands. He dropped it onto the table, and it made a loud thud. “Dang! That's heavy! What's in it?” he asked, as he opened it and grabbed a handful of beautiful gold coins the size of an American silver dollar but heavier. Billy set a handful on the table. There were gasps from around the room – most were from the new men. They were stunned. “Sweet Jesus, this is a king's ransom. What's it for?” Billy asked.

“We shared a small portion of our slave-chow with our masters. They loved it, and gave us that bag of coins to buy one hundred bags for themselves. They were highly impressed, Master Billy. Enough so, they want to serve it to their guests as a new taste treat when you come to our planet, Sire. They asked your forgiveness for such a short notice. They understand it is a last minute request, but if you could provide them with a few until you make arrangements to buy more, they would be most grateful,” Boraz said.

“How much slave-chow we got in stock, Ramrods?” Billy asked Hank and Buck.

“We just got in a new batch, Boss. We could take them twenty-five bags and put in another order Monday morning. It usually takes about a week for delivery. With the time difference, we could deliver the rest shortly after we return to Earth,” Buck allowed.

“We got us a surplus over to our ranch, Aunt Helen?” Bubba asked his aunt.

Helen pulled her computer-tablet from her large leather shoulder-bag she carried with her everywhere and punched in some numbers. “We could easily spare twenty-five, Bubba,” she replied.

“Good! We'll bring 'em wiff' us in the morning, Brother,” Bubba said.

“Done! We can get the rest next week, but this bag of gold coins is worth far more than payment for a hundred bags of slave-chow. We won't know how much until we can get them to our family gold merchant – but offhand, I'd say these coins would feed the entire body of our Irin slaves and every Watcher in our area for several years and still leave us with a healthy profit. Hank, put in a separate order for five hundred bags for our in-laws. We can provide more later to assure freshness,” Billy said, “Too bad we had to let go of them Lovejoy men. I got me a feel'n we're gonna' need us an eighteen wheeler tractor to pull a delivery rig,” he added.

“I don't think we seen the last of them men, Son,” the Colonel said, and the other men around the table agreed.

* * * * * * *
Lieutenant Roy Boynton and his posse began to see a change in the twelve men they incarcerated within the confines of Captain Nick's ship. The duplicitous NSA men didn't have any idea how advanced the technology was where they were staying. They were never introduced to the concept of a tesseract and would probably deny the possibility of such an idea if it was presented to them. Billy decided, once in a great while, ignorance could have its blissful moments. They were none the wiser; the huge area of the castle and surrounding area was a separate small world in a different dimension.

They didn't feel intimidated or threatened by their surroundings. On the contrary, they were treated like guests, but with a bit more reserve and caution than might be shown the average visitors to the Daniels realm; especially, those for whom Billy and his cowboy angels healed, refurbished, or made corrections. Granted, there were a number of strange things the fraudulent NSA men were exposed to they never experienced before, but on the other hand, there was more than an equal number of unusual delights to admire and ponder about – which, for the most part, kept the men stuttering and stammering for explanations. One situation, in particular, which seemed to grab them by the balls, was the ability of the Daniels pack of canines to carry on an intelligent conversation with their human masters and a few verbal exchanges with the new men. They almost fell out of their chairs when they heard Daffy and Chloe respond to Jessie Jones during the concert. The other dogs were trained to remain silent around new folks brought on board Captain Nick's ship with whom they were unaccustomed and wouldn't speak around them unless purposely engaged by one of their masters.

It wasn't until after the concert, the new men discovered every dog on the ship could speak. It was much later in the day, they were introduced to the the winged-terrors of the Tate family – Miranda and her pups. They were growing fast and were no longer in their awkward age. They were becoming knowledgeable and clever. They quickly learned how to deal with humans to get their way. While they were cute to the bone and lovable to a fault, they were also manipulative and ruthless to the core. Each pup possessed their own particular brand of attraction, and the new men couldn't get enough of them.

* * * * * * *
Buckaroo Jack became the faux-NSA men's go-to keeper to ask questions. The men developed a protective relationship with him and seemed to understand Jack was more than the young cowboy seemed. Jack would answer their questions politely without condescension and tried to help them understand what seemed amazing and unbelievable to them would soon become the norm once they got used to the people and gifted animals. That evening, at supper, Jack asked Billy if he might invite the new men to witness his physical adjustment.

“Do you think they're ready, Buckaroo?” Billy asked, winked at Jack, and smiled.

“Yes, sir, Master Billy, if not, it will be a baptism of fire for them; however, I'm bet'n they might find it a positive experience, which I hope they will look upon as sharing an extremely personal and moving moment with someone they've come to trust and appreciate. We've tried to do our best to inform them about our way of life, and tell them as much as we can without deceiving them. If we give the appearance we're trying to keep things from them, or keep them in the dark, then suspicion and distrust will begin to form in their minds and begin to rot their trust in us. I think they're coming to realize the hard fact they must weigh their options, consider becoming a part of us, or risk being terminated by those who hired them. For them to witness what you and my cowboy brothers can accomplish might give them hope,” Jack replied and spoke for the men.

“Hear! Hear! Well said, Young Man!” Tron Garrett exclaimed.

“Hear! Hear!” the other men around the table joined him.

“I'm glad your fine parents decided to let you make the transition, Son,” Billy said, “but I want you to understand one thing – I don't want you to have any doubts about your decision, and I hope you don't have any thoughts of fear or anxiety. You know a goodly number of our men who are capable of changing themselves for their mates. I will give you the same option in case some day you feel you should ever need it; however, the most important part will be, you will go through puberty like any young man. I don't think we should wait another day. I'm almost certain you're about to began your change,” Billy said, “We'll know for certain when you start to grow wing-nubs on your back,” he added and smiled.

“You needn't worry yourself none, Master Billy. I done seen what you can do, and I got great trust in your abilities. I assure you, I have no fear; however, I must admit, your thoughtful offer to bless me with the option to be a switch-hitter will certainly be appreciated. Who knows, I might even convince my big brother, Willie Whistlepie, to accept the option for himself,” Jack replied. He grinned, winked at Willie, and got a laugh from his big friend. The new men looked at the giant man but registered no emotion. They didn't have a clue what Jack was referring to and could only wonder.

Much to Jack's parents dismay, Billy was amused the young trans-gendered man was quickly picking up the cowboy lingo and seemed comfortable in his new persona. While Jack was living and working out of Captain Nick's ship, everyone cooperated with Billy and the Colonel to treat him like he was just another buckaroo. He quickly learned the cowboy way and was blossoming into a fine young cowhand.

Jack managed to wrangle his dad, Elliot Rigby, away from the crowd and took him to his room in the Colonel's suite to talk with him in private. Jack knew his window of opportunity to have himself changed into a young man was looming on the horizon as soon as Master Billy and his posse could find the time. Before his change became a solid consideration and a possible reality, Jack found himself completely under his mother's jurisdiction for the way he, as a she, was to live his life. It became less pleasant for both as Jack began to grow apart from his mother, Brenda, and his sisters, Sarah and Barbara. Billy's idea of separating Jack for the summer from his family to live as one of Billy's cowboys was exactly what Jack needed.

Slowly, Jack began to build a new relationship with his dad, but it was sometimes awkward. Elliot still lived with one foot in each world and probably would be more comfortable when the transformation became a reality; however, the prospect of having a son was a wonderful consideration and opened a new world of possibilities. With three girls, he never had to worry about conversations concerning female problems or adjustments on the journey into puberty. He pledged to himself and his soon-to-be son, he would work with Jack to make the transition as smooth as possible for both. Elliot admired Jack's room and was impressed it was the room of a hardworking cowboy. There were no frills and everything was in its place. Jack suggested they sit at a small table in the middle of the room.

“I wanted one last chance to talk with you in private, Dad. I wanted to make sure you're all right with me making this transition,” Jack said leaning back in his chair and crossing his boots.

“Wait a minute!” Elliot said and grinned, “Shouldn't I be the one taking you aside and asking you that question, Son?” he asked and smiled.

“Perhaps, Dad, but your support is of utmost importance to me if I'm to remain a part of your family. While I love my mother and sisters, I'm not sure they will ever fully accept me as a man. I know I'm breaking mother's heart and my sisters are just too young to understand and be empathetic for my needs. They're so preoccupied with 'girl' stuff they consider me a freak-a-zoid from the planet 'Weird-oh.' The only one of my family what don't is little Jenny,” Jack replied.

“Does Jenny sleep with you?” Elliot asked.

“Once in a while, when she gets scared in her room she comes and crawls in bed with me, but not often. When she comes to me, I offer her my comfort and support. I plan to continue to do so after my transition. She's just a baby, and I have no urges to molest a child let alone one so sensitive, intelligent, talented, and loving as Jenny. Because of our mutual estrangement from our families we have bonded as comfortable companions. I will never give up my love and admiration for her,” Jack said firmly.

“Do you feel estranged from your family, Jack?” Elliot asked like he wasn't totally surprised.

“Where have you been for the last five years, Dad?” Jack asked in reply.

“You got a point, Son. I can't gainsay that. Your mom and I tried to convince ourselves it was just a phase you were going through hoping you'd grow out of it. I guess I was in such denial, it never crossed my mind to check your DNA; however, I can't help feel a little left out because I haven't been the one to stand by you and champion your cause. That was my fault – not yours. To use cowboy-speak, I ain't got me no excuse, Son, but that's why I asked if I shouldn't be the one to be having a pep-talk with you. I'm behind you all the way, Jack, or I wouldn't be here right now having this conversation with you," Elliot said.

“None of this was your fault, Dad, and I appreciate you going to bat for me to convince mother I should make the change; after all, it was her gene what caused the mix-up. I'm glad you insisted she let Master Billy correct it just in case you and she decided to have another child. Hopefully, they wouldn't find themselves in the same wagon I'm in. What I called you in here for is to tell you I have asked Master Billy to give me more of Granddad Hank's DNA. I want a penis just like his. I want to become the cowboy Grandson he ain't never had,” Jack said.

“I have absolutely no problem with it, Son. After all, it's your life and you should be able to have the tools necessary to live as a man of the West; however, I have some feelings of remorse. I fear I'm losing you to your Granddad's branch of the family,” Elliot lamented.

“No more than you're losing me to Master Billy and his family, Dad. You will still be my father, I will always love and respect you, but you can't see what's going on before you without understanding those who have come under the Daniels canopy and become something much greater than what they were before. I've watched you, mom, and my sisters grow considerably since you been coming to the ranch.

“Can't gainsay that neither, Son. What it boils down to is this, I just want you to be happy, but don't leave us behind, Jack,” Elliot said, burst into tears, and grabbed his son into a bear hug.

“I won't, Dad. Have faith. I will make you proud of me,” Jack promised.

* * * * * * *
Later that evening Billy called his posse and troops to the dungeon. Practically everyone of his Cowboy-Angels were there to add their strength to his power to change young Jack Elliot from a physical female to a healthy young cowboy. He also planned to give Jack the full package. When he made it through puberty, he would begin to fledge as another one of Billy's Cowboy-Angels. Everyone gathered to wish the young cowboy well. The twelve prisoners Jack invited were there naked except for their boots. There were no women. Jack insisted there be no ladies present. His mother was somewhat hurt and took it as a rejection because she was the unwitting cause of his sexual mix-up, but her husband carefully explained Jack promised it had nothing to do with that. He simply wanted to feel like he was being brought into the brotherhood of men and his Granddad in particular. Elliot's rather clumsy explanation didn't go down well with Brenda, but she got herself together and told Elliot she wished their son well. Jack's sisters could have cared less. They had not reached the age of empathy.

The twelve prisoners were flabbergasted at what they were witnessing. They only saw Billy's Cowboy-Angels and Watcher-Protectors squad when they appeared at Joshua Swift's goat ranch in Camp Air, but when Master Billy and his larger portion of Cowboy-Angels disappeared and returned fully fledged in their resplendent wings within an instant, there was a moment of total chaos.

“My god! They're all Angels!” Exclaimed Winston Cravett, one of the six more quiet prisoners.

“They's like cowbells, Inmate Cravett. You can't have too many,” Randy said with his best bored cowboy drawl. The gathered men laughed at his reference. Randy was a big fan of SNL sketches on YouTube from the early part of the century.*

“You think we should hang cowbells around their necks so's we don't lose one of 'em inmates, Little Brother?” Billy asked.

“Only if you plan to take them on our trip across the universe. However, if they get it in their head to stray from the herd, I hope they's good at hitchhiking, it's a long walk back to the barn from the Andromeda Galaxy,” Randy replied and everyone broke up.

“We'll probably take a couple with us, but I'll leave the rest here under guard. They can watch the broadcast in the big hall if they like or they can have tea with them pop'n fresh dough-boys in their cell,” Billy said and got a laugh from his men.

* * * * * * *
After the guests retired to their rooms in the castle, the time came for Jack to lie upon the leather processing table in the dungeon. It was early enough in the evening to spend some time rejoicing and partying in the hot tubs afterward. Very few men of the Daniels family missed his changing. Jack won the hearts and minds of everyone on the ship. Those who attended came to wish him well and welcome him into the world of men. The male members of his family were there, and the men he worked with every day who accepted him as just another buckaroo were gathered to witness and offer their respect for his transformation. Even the refurbished cowboys on the Halfablap ranch, Deek and Bafra, were there. Jack invited them. The two older cowboys were like family to him during his childhood.

The procedure wasn't a difficult one for Billy and his posse. It was almost one of joy and reaffirmation of life. Everyone was in good spirits. Billy infused Jack with a considerable amount of his Granddad's DNA before he began to morph the young boy's vagina into a handsome penis. Hank stood on the other side of the table and Billy used his male member to sculpture and bless young Jack with the cowboy cock of his dreams. It didn't take very long. Everyone was making encouraging comments to young Jack how handsome his new equipment was shaping up to be, when a shimmering cloud formed over the men's head in the dungeon and moved directly over Master Billy and his men.

Billy smiled and kept on working. When he finished with Jack, the cloud began to glow and give off a brilliant golden light which made it break up into shards of sparks. The strange rays were being released to shoot down and invigorate Billy's posses of Cowboy-Angels, himself, and young Jack. No one seemed afraid and smiled at each other from the pleasant surprise. Some of Billy's protectors were concerned, but they waited for Billy to respond. When Billy finished with Jack, the cloud lowered itself just above Jack and held its place for a few minutes.

“Master Billy?” Jack asked quietly.

“Don't move, Son. It means us no harm,” he replied.

In a great booming deep voice they all heard, “Your Master is right, young Cowboy-Angel. You are unique in this world. Other than your unfortunate physical miss-assignment of the wrong sex, we find you without flaw. We have watched you grow and progress on board Captain Nick's ship and find you worthy to receive our blessing. Do not fear. We wish to conjoin with you to further enhance your person, Young Man,” the cloud said.

Jack shot a look directly at Billy to get a cue. Billy, smiled, gently shook his head 'yes,' and Jack agreed. The cloud slowly lowered onto Jack and completely surrounded him. It began to glow, vibrate, and sing to the young cowboy. Jack's body became like brightly burnished gold and looked as if someone applied several layers of gold leaf over every inch of his body including his head and his eyes. Even his cock looked like it was made from a rod of pure gold. At the same time the cloud was singing to him some of the most heavenly music anyone every heard. It was magnificent, beautiful, and relaxing. The cloud continued to do its thing for almost fifteen minutes when it finally lifted from Jack and disappeared. Jack was left with a body of pure gold, but his eyes were a deep blue. He looked like a golden idol. “Will this be permanent, Master Billy?” he asked.

“No, Son. A voice came to me and explained. You must wear it for an hour and then it will begin to go away. Just think of yourself as our golden cowboy and enjoy the gift, which whoever or whatever has blessed you,” Billy explained. “You don't feel strange do you?” he asked.

“Lord, no, sir. I never felt better in my life. They gimme' an abundant supply of energy and strength. I might have a little trouble going to sleep tonight, but I'll adjust,” Jack replied as Billy helped the new young cowboy down from the bench. Everyone in Jack's sphere of family and close friends had to have a hug and a kiss. They were shy at first, but after a great display of love shown him by his Granddad, the rest didn't hesitate.

Billy called his family to make another announcement, “Before we disperse and relax in the tubs, if you will indulge me, we have two more good folks in our family to enhance who stood out as heroes during our raid on Mount Ararat to free them angels in stasis. Captain Nick and I have discussed it, and we are in firm agreement. Will our personal warriors Cloog and his nephew Aeron please come forward,” Billy said and everyone went crazy acknowledging the two handsome men. They were applauding, whistling, and stomping their boots in approval of Billy's choice of warriors to enhance. Cloog and Aeron tucked their heads to hide their smiles as they walked through the crowd.

It didn't take much time to enhance either halfling, but a little longer to refurbish Cloog to appear nearer his younger wife's age; however, the most remarkable part was, they were both gifted with the same golden coverings to make them rather unique by some unknown power. Billy did nothing to try to intercede and allowed the transformations to take place. He had his suspicions which he shared with his surrogate pa, but Billy didn't implicate the Golden Cock. Nick rolled his eyes at Billy's guess but didn't gainsay it either.

“You think this is the last of the golden angels?” Billy asked Nick.

“I'd almost bet my ship on it, if it still belonged to me,” Nick said, grinned, and winked.

“Do you belong to me, Tonto?” Billy asked.

“Lock, stock, and this rusty old bucket, Kemosabe!” Nick said firmly.

“Well, there you go… me casa, su casa,” said Billy and laughed.

The Daniels family retired to the tubs and just about the time it came time for the pre-puberty cowboys to go to their rooms and go to bed, the gold began to melt from the three newly enhanced angels. It seemed to breakup into even smaller particles and was eventually removed by the filtration system. Neither Cloog nor the two young men seemed to suffer any ill effects. On the contrary, the three enhanced that evening reported they never felt better in their lives. Young Jack was happy beyond words with his new penis and received many compliments and encouragement from his family and the other cowboys. He was not shy and very proud to show it to anyone who wanted to get a closer look.

The men didn't stay in the tubs for a prolonged period of time after the younger buckaroos left for their beds. Billy declared he would take a third of the new inmates with them on their journey to the stars. They seemed to gather in three groups. Billy decided to take the two main men Vic Bodega, Orin Sawin, from the first group of four; Spike Mulligan from the second group, and Dalton Bayless from the third group. As he previously announce, the remaining eight inmates would be allowed to watch a direct feed of the concert in the great hall. They would be guarded by a small platoon of Master Billy's angels and watchers and a larger contingency of the Essengurda Warriors would remain behind to see to their needs and make sure they didn't get into any mischief.

* * * * * * *
The next morning was utter chaos, but when everyone going to Retikki Prime sat down for breakfast there was time to iron out some of the confusion. Because there were so many going on their voyage across the universe there were two seatings for breakfast. The first breakfast was scheduled one hour earlier than the regular time. Those going to Retikki Prime ate first and those who were to stay behind would eat second. A large portion of Billy's main family who were not performing musicians wanted to go. They remembered the previous time they went to Retikki Prime and the wonderful adventures and beautiful things they observed. They were like race horses lining up in the paddocks ready to race through the gates when they opened. Billy and his uncle laughed at the ladies from the ranch house and how excited they were. Their enthusiasm went a long way to cancel any apprehension any of the first-time orchestra members might have been harboring.

Everyone gathered before the extra large gate with Billy, his posse, and the twin Watchers each behind an anti-grav cart. Each cart was piled high with fifty bags of slave-chow and fifteen bags of nutrient biscuits. Billy assigned a couple of his Warrior-Protectors to give Boraz and Zarob a hand pushing them through the gate so they wouldn't slow down the progress. Billy couldn't help look out at the sea of people and critters he gathered over the past six months standing ready to make the pilgrimage to another world. He remembered the scene from the old C.B. DeMille movie 'The Ten Commandments' where the Jews were beginning their journey out of Egypt. The thought this many people would put their trust in him to take them to another world suddenly hit him and humbled him beyond proportion. One big tear leaked from his right eye, and he choked up. He raised his right hand for everyone to quiet-down and coughed in his left hand so they wouldn't see how moved he was.

“I have a few words to say on the doorstep of our going universal. First of all, I can't tell you good folks how proud of you I am. There are no words to express the emotions and the happiness I feel at this moment for you and the unusual family you have come to adopt. Our future and our destiny as a united family is only a few steps away from a gate of free electrons. The Houston Philharmonic, our Barnyard Players, will no longer limit themselves to thinking they are the best orchestra in the world. When we return you will know you are the best orchestra in the universe and, we will have videos to prove it!” Billy shouted and a cheer went up. “Now! Let's go do this and knock their socks off! Hosanna!” Billy shouted,

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

Billy gave Bossman Randy the signal, and he opened a large gate into the courtyard in the castle of the Lord High Chancellors on Retikki Prime. A great parade of people and critters passed through the gates until the very last to bring up the rear were Billy's Angel-Watcher-Protectors. General Royce Boynton and his staff of generals were awe struck. Billy's new Grand-Uncle Hank and his clan of Captain Langstrom, Baug, Lem, Jenny, and Cowboy Jack were speechless. Kate, Zelma, Roz, Aunt Helen, Dorcus, and Jennifer Halfablap were beside themselves with joy. So were many of the people in awe on their first trip across the universe.

* * * * * * *
It was still quite early on Retikki Prime and the first sun was barely peaking over the mountains as the shadows from its light ran down to the beautiful azure sea. The view from the huge courtyard and garden of the palace was breathtaking. It must have been very early, there were no dignitaries to greet them; not even one of the servants or an errant mouse. However, there were Palace Guards and patrols around. They were primed to expect Master Billy and his family. The crowd was so in awe they didn't make much noise when they arrived. Billy smiled, waved to the guards and signaled for them to be quiet. They knew Master Billy and trusted him. He went to the Captain of the Guard and greeted him with a big hug and a goodly kiss. He quietly spoke to him, and he transferred Master Billy's wishes to his men.

Some of the larger instruments were already there in the courtyard along with music stands and Miss Clara's trunk of music. Billy put his forefinger to his lips and shushed everyone in his family to be quiet. “Richard Wagner's 'Siegfried Idyll,' for an early morning eyeopener for our hosts, Miss Clara?” he asked. Clara Mae smiled, nodded her head in approval, and opened one of several trunks. She carefully filed everything in order and brought out a large bundle of music. Clara removed the music from the cardboard folder and began to pass out parts as the musicians were getting out their instruments.

Billy's set-up crew went into action the minute Miss Clara headed for her music and were arranging music stands before any benches in the courtyard, benches around the fountain, and set them before other suitably large stones where a musician might sit. They also found a small store room with extra folding seats they brought out until every orchestra member could be sitting comfortably. The brass and wind section insisted on standing which lowered the required amount of seating. Billy stood halfway to the top of a flight of steps leading up into the palace with his new baton his musicians gave him for the trip.

“Let's start this baby as a soft prayer and build – but not too much. Let's give it the romantic schmaltz along with the strong dignity as its due. Let's not forget, this piece is one of the greatest tone-poems ever written about a father's love for his first born infant son, and let's milk it like an old cow without a bell,” he instructed his orchestra. Everyone got his message, grinned, a few giggled, and nodded their heads in agreement. They loved Billy for his ability to be playful and serious at the same time. They were caught up in the conspiratorial aspect of the moment and were like young school kids about to play a harmless prank on their betters.

It was the perfect piece for the moment to unassumingly announce their early arrival. The orchestra began and the lovely music filled the courtyard, spilled over to run down the mountainside into the nearest shire, and continued to travel sweetly to engulf the beautifully bucolic, picture perfect pastoral scene of the county side. Slowly, like bright eyes opening one-by-one onto the faint, dim rays of early dawn, lights came on in the castle and down into the village. The staff walked to their windows wearing their night-clothes, threw open the shudders to hear and observe the soft, glorious strains of heavenly music announcing the start of a new eighteen hour day on Retikki Prime. The orchestra never sounded better. They played with constrained bravura and unquestioned authority. Billy never let the ambient sound of the music become too harsh or brash. It was, after all, a lullaby to a new born babe lying in his mother's arms.

Those members of the orchestra who Billy repaired, or enhanced – even those who played under his baton the many times they played together – could hear their Maestro in their minds softly encouraging, stroking them, and containing their enthusiasm to give the perfect performance. Billy became the consummate lover and considerate shepherd. In response, they gave their all to him and never questioned his ability to bring them to a unified climax. Billy never failed to create a mental orgasm with both sexes. No one was exempt. Not one was left behind. At the end of each piece, every member of the orchestra was completely drained, and that included the children. The younger set wasn't mature enough to understand the effect, but they experience it nonetheless. It was the perfect training ground to teach them the joys of the momentary release – the high and euphoric moment of wonderful sex between two people.

Billy's subconscious communication was not limited to his orchestra members. Those members of the audience who listened, experienced the sensation as well. For many, the fine music Billy and his musicians produced became an eyeopening experience. People who previously shunned classical music began to understand the more erotic aspects and felt the sensations; and, like a starving wolf pack, they wanted more. Billy became their benign pied-piper and led them down paths they could only dream about before. And so it was, with the two giant Supreme Watchers, the Lord High Chancellors of Retikki Prime, who fell asleep with Gregor implanted deeply within his mate's lower digestive tract.

The soft, sensuous music engulfed everyone and gently awakened them. They knew, without a doubt, from whence the lovely music originated and who was producing the soft erotic sounds. It caused them to grow strong like two rods of iron newly smelted and hammered to perfection. Gregor's member fit his smaller mate like a larger knight returning his sword to his scabbard. They were a perfect match. Gregor slowly began to move his love-pump in sync with the music like a piston on a great machine until he built up a huge head of steam, huffing and puffing, driving down his mate's track like a coal fed locomotive engine coming down a steep mountain grade. At the very highest climax point of the piece, music and ass, Gregor unloaded one of his heaviest orgasms into his beloved Albrecht and together they shouted, “Hosanna! Hosanna, in the highest!” After gathering themselves, they rang their bell by their bedside, and gave birth too twin stars in the constellation of Lyra.

Before the music finished, they managed to clean themselves, don their long majestic robes, and left their suite of apartments, arm in arm. In the great entryway, most of their other interplanetary guests they invited for the conference were patiently standing, waiting for their gracious hosts. They exchanged quiet pleasantries, bowed to each other. “Shall we go out to greet our gifted children?” Gregor put to them. Everyone smiled and nodded their approval. Albrecht gave his guards the order to open the huge doors, and with the very last few minutes of music, the Lord High Chancellors led their guests down the steps to stand directly behind Maestro Billy Daniels as the final cadence was played and drifted off into silence.

Applause, cheers, and shouts of 'Welcome' came from the castle folks, the great Lord High Chancellors, and their honored guests. There was mayhem in the palace grounds for a few minutes as the good folks from the small blue marble in the Sol system returned their enthusiasm. Billy smiled, winked at his orchestra, turned, and dropped to his knees before his Uncle-in-laws and their guests.

“Arise, and come to our welcoming arms, Maestro Daniels! Let us greet you as friends and beloved relations!” Gregor bellowed like a great bull. Many in Billy's group were new to Retikki Prime, but they were deeply moved by the giant watchers and the other strange alien groups who were gathered to bid them welcome. “Come, Nephew! Come, Captain Nick, Billy's Bright Angel, and our father-in-law! Come Bossman Randy! Bring your beautiful sister Kayla Rutherford, your Uncle Billy Bob Bane and his husband Foreman Ram Snoddy! Come Mistress Kate Daniels, Mistress Redbone, and Mistress Roz! Castor and Pollux Daniels! Cowboy-Angels Hank Renfrow and Buck Appleby! Archie and beautiful Edith Daniels! Come! Jurgen Ironmonger and his beautiful daughter, Felicity, with their family protector, Sylvan Aspidistra! Come to us,” Gregor added. For a few minutes it was mass confusion and continued that way for quite a while. The giant watchers saw the three anti-grav gurneys stacked with the bags of slave-chow and nutrient biscuits. They sighed audibly, smiled at Billy and Boomer, and hugged them again. They were very pleased.

Some of the new people stood watching with their mouths open. A few jaws were observed to hit the deck in unison. They couldn't decide whether to turn and run or shit their knickers. Several pissed their pants. Even though they were warned, to say they were flabbergasted was not strong enough. However, the balance was the immediate Daniels family and their gathered associated family members didn't hesitate to accept the largest Watcher Lord High Chancellor's invitation to come and physically greet them.

“Hoe-lee shit!” said Vic Bodega quietly, “I almost come in my pants from the orchestra's reading of the 'Idyll,' but this is beyond my wildest expectations,” he added.

“In the name of some unknown god, Praise the Lord! Don't tell me our fearless leader is having an epiphany what just might trigger the miracle of changing his mind about his misplaced loyalties with the rabid right-wing establishment back on Earth?” Orin Sawin gigged him batting his eyes and pretending to cool himself like a southern-bell with a hand-fan.

“I can say, it certainly does present other possibilities,” Bodega snapped back, “For all the shit you gimme,' Sawin, I gotta' admit you done seen a better picture about the possibilities of Billy Daniels and his clan than I might ever imagine. It took me forever to learn to swim when I was a kid until I learned to trust myself. I think you just might have been right all along. I suspect you learned to trust your gut instincts early on in life. I promise, from now on, I'll make a concerted effort to listen and consider what you have to say without sparring with you,” Bodega added sincerely.

“Nobody expects you to change overnight, Sweetie. Small steps, Brother. It's what they taught me in A. A. Take it from me, it works,” Orin said.

* * * * * * *
“Great gooba-gooba and rusty leaking faucets! Is everybody on the same page I am? This place gives the term baking-a-pie-in-the-sky new dimensions. We done hit the frick'n and frack'n jackpot, Gentlemen!” exclaimed General Royce Boynton.

“Dad! Please! Watch your language! There's women and children with us,” exclaimed Royce Junior, “I can't take you anywhere,” his boy joked and shook his head. Everyone around them laughed.

“Sorry, Son! Guess my inner-buckaroo grabbed me by my excited gonads and wouldn't let go. Didn't mean to embarrass you none. I'll try to be more of a gentleman,” the General humbly replied.

“To Hell with manners! I'm with the General, Brother Roy!” Lem said strongly. The rest of the military men and their families laughed and agreed with the young boy what they were observing was nothing short of fantastic and deserved a few raw-bone exclamations.

“You must be caught in the middle, Sweet-beast,” the General said to Baug with care.

“Not as much as you might imagine, Big Daddy,” Baug responded and blushed. Everyone smiled at the two of them. It was obvious to everyone, they were hopelessly in love.

“Good to to know,” the General replied.

“I just wish my husband could see this with me,” General Tate said softly.

“Maybe you can if we can figure a way to get that ornery, hard-headed old son-of-a-bitch to lie under Master Billy and his posse, but it will take some powerful trickery. Lord knows, we got the talent to take him down a notch. I'm convinced that old bastard would rather die than accept a miracle and afraid of becoming beholden to another man. He's just too damn proud and more stubborn than a Kentucky mule,” Royce Boynton said.

“I've thought a lot about it, sir. I'm open to any suggestions, General, and as much as I love him, I'd join any conspiracy it might take to pull him back from the gates of Hell. If he was to die, I don't know's I could go on without him. I could never suck another man's cock, make love to his ass, and be satisfied. I know I would grieve myself to death,” General Tate said.

* * * * * * *
As the morning progressed, breakfast was served for the locals and guests in the palace. The people and watchers from Earth ate before they came through the gates but enjoyed Hosanna cakes and a hot cup of coffee. Billy made sure his staff ordered a dozen large sacks of coffee beans, an industrial strength grinder, five large coffee makers, throw-away Styrofoam cups, and included condiments of sugar and cream which they brought on another large anti-grav gurney. He also brought along a variety of teas, including their beloved Texas Tea blend. The teas originally were from Retikki Prime and several other planets but never seemed to catch-on within the general populace. Therefore, Billy, Hank, and Buck felt their particular blend warranted a new name.

Billy's new guards of bonded humanoids and watchers walked through the gate naked. After having received Master Billy's enhancements, and having a comfortable length of time to appreciate their new body changes, even the smaller humanoids held no feelings of false modesty about returning to their planet of origin in the raw. Since Billy decided to take Harley-Buck Johnson and his other two recently horned and fully pierced human slaves, Earl Hickson and Orville Higginbothem, any number of his party of Cowboy-Angels chose to return to their home planet in the buff; except, for their boots. Ain't no two ways about it, a cowboy is just plumb naked without his boots.

Billy also further enhanced his three slaves with what looked like animal fur running from their heads, faces, necks, upper shoulders and arms, with a treasure trail running downward between their huge pectoral muscles, through their washboard abdomens, to end around their enhanced genitals. It looked similar to fur or more like a light pelt which was removed from a large animal and glued onto their bodies as ritual ornamentation. It was as soft as velvet and sometimes moved with the slightest of air currents. It wasn't wiry and stiff like normal human pubic hair. Harley-Buck was a golden color and looked like a lion-man with ram horns. Earl was a lighter blond color and Orville was a reddish ginger color.

Each set of horns were slightly different to give them their own unique appearance, and they were magnificent together. The three men became icons of their master's pride and faith in them – a very strong bond indeed. Each grew long strands of fur on the sides of their heads. They asked their grooms to plat several of the strands into three equal dreadlocks on each side which swung freely about as they moved their heads. Billy and his grooms turned his three punishment slaves into sexual icons. Everywhere they went, Billy insisted they be surrounded by his personal guards – not because Harley-Buck, Earl, and Orville were dangerous. On the contrary, the three slaves were the most docile and well mannered critters in the greater Daniels family.

The problem was, people who met them for the first time found it difficult to keep their hands to themselves. Their psyches became uncontrollably consumed with an uncommonly strong subconscious urged to reach out, touch, and stroke them like they were a beloved pet. Even Billy, their assigned grooms, and his closest family members couldn't keep their hands off of them. If strangers got close enough to stroke them, Billy's slaves penises became erect immediately which caused embarrassment and made for awkward explanations. There was also much talk among his other associate family members about gaining the same look for their own personal appearance to add to their physical repertoire into which they might morph from time to time to play with their mates.

A month passed since Harley-Buck was impregnated with his proto-embryo created from his own sperm removed from Clarice Wombat's womb, and he was barely beginning to show. Very few suspected the big handsome brute – half-animal/half-man – was eating for two. His companions laughed and covered for him by insisting he could eat more than both of them put together. Harley-Buck's pregnancy caused him to look more healthy and stronger than ever before. The large man's massive muscles and his aura glowed a golden-tan color surrounded by handsome purple and dark blue colors. His skin was so dark and tanned one couldn't tell where his legs left off and his handsome cowboy boots began. He was remarkably stunning to look upon and garnered much attention. Cowboys are swift to attach cognomens to those they love. His brother punishment-slaves, grooms, and other close associates who came to love him began to refer to him as Daddy Rambo.

* * * * * * *
Since Billy allowed his punishment slaves, and a number of the village people who became part of the orchestra and chorus, to come along on the trip to Retikki Prime, he also invited a number of the village people to come along including the village musicians and several others. Most notably were Leon, the Lion Man, Pan, the Panther Man, and Raza, the winged Dragon man. Billy also allowed the two Johnson Ranch dogs, Daffy and Chloe, and his own two monsters, Guy and Willow to come along. Molly wanted to go and Clara Mae Bastiaen volunteered to chaperon the beautiful dog. Clara said she would be happy to see to Molly's needs. As it happened, Molly was lovingly passed from one unusual person to another. She was in her cups. They were her people. The dogs stayed close to Billy's unusual slaves, which included Archie and Edith, and they became the hit of the morning. Everyone including the dignitaries wanted to meet and converse with them. It became obvious to Billy's people, while they were polite and considerate to a fault, the other aliens were also cleverly interviewing them to see if they were happy and content with their lifestyle under Master Billy and Captain Nick's leadership. They got nothing but sterling praise from each and every one of them.

The contingency of officials and their guests from other worlds arrived by gate the day before to discuss plans for their conference with Billy and his people. They spent the evening in the great palace and were in a good mood looking forward to the day. Ramrod Matt Quigley and his entourage was there representing the Irin. Four new races were present; the Gregots; the Heimlicks; the Spiritkins; and, the Soaronpastus, an impressive warrior race. Ramrod Quigley with Gregor and Albrecht explained there would be one more race who would join them later in the morning from another world in Orion cluster. They would be arriving shortly for their morning conference. They are known as the Etheropteans.* No one seemed to know much about them. They were a rather reclusive race and didn't have much to do with others in the universe. The other races were a bit surprised at their interest and request to join the other races to discuss the future of the human race. It would be their first time to make contact with them.

“Have you seen them, Uncles? Do you know what they look like?” Billy asked asked Gregor and Albrecht.

“No, Nephew, none of us have seen them. From galactic rumors, we have heard they are another giant race who are exceptionally advanced – far more so than our seven civilizations combined,” he said. None of the other representatives contradicted the giant watcher's estimation of the new race.

Ramrod Quigley spoke up, “We have also heard they can be downright ornery and set in their ways. They are a dynastic autocracy and rule their solar system with an iron fist; but surprisingly, it has been reported, they are beginning to show signs they are trying to evolve into a more benevolent culture than their title might suggest. They have a tiered society where anyone who is talented enough and works hard may rise to the top of their social status under the ruling families. Misfits, those who choose to politically buck the system and cause unrest, are given multiple chances to reform. Time varies due to the severity of physical actions of the individual rather than speaking out against the status quo. If they fail to reform and continue to cause unrest, they are stripped of everything and are reprogrammed to become one of the servant class.

“We understand they have a tendency to bully other civilizations less developed than themselves. We acquired new information recently, they have taken a great interest in planets such as yours who might be experiencing a difficult time transitioning into a greater society without suffering self annihilation,” Matt Quigley explained. “Don't worry, we won't allow them to intimidate you. You and your family have come too far and are establishing a solid base of operations to grow into a better life for yourselves and those on your planet. Besides, they must go through us first. You and your family have gained much attention and loving acceptance from our represented galaxies. Just remember, the concerned people on our worlds wouldn't hesitate to rise up and kick our butts if we let anything happen to you good folks,” Matt Quigley assured them.

“Then should we take the news as a threat, or should we be wary of them?” Billy asked.

“No! Not at all. We didn't invite them to join us. They invited themselves, and for the sake of peaceful negotiations and possible trade relations, we granted their request to participate. We debated among ourselves whether to allow them to participate and offer suggestions or express their concerns. We could foresee no harm as long as they agreed to our rules of conduct and protocol. It's up to them to contribute as much or as little as they choose. Our galactic alliance is too large and powerful for them to try anything unusual or rash,” One of the Gregot leaders explained, “Neither will we allow them to bully you or your family,” he added.

Billy thanked the counsel members and bowed to them. << You know something you ain't let'n nobody know about, ain't chu,' Kemosabe? >> Billy heard in his head. It was Nick's private channel.

<< Could be, Tonto, >> Billy smiled, raised an eyebrow, winked, and grinned at his surrogate dad.

<< I know you ain't gonna' come right out and tell me, but it's got something to do with Nemo, ain't it? What with you taking the orchestra and chorus off into the nether-region for some kind of secret practice session you wouldn't tell nobody about and swore them to secrecy. I tried to do me some snoop'n, but I didn't get much more'n a couple of grins. Damnation, them musicians can be a dedicated lot. Sez' a lot about their undivided devotion and trust in their leader – of which, you should certainly be proud. I couldn't play none of my devilish tricks on them neither. I thought about changing into my Kagoli form and scare'n the crap out of 'em, but by this time they'd just laugh at me. When I ask a few pointed questions, they just smiled and grinned more wickedly than I could ever pretend to be, with a look on their face what would say, 'Get thee behind me, Old Scratch! You'll get nothing from me!' >> Nick sent and got Billy laughing. << However, it must have been some bad-ass practice session. Them poor folks' tongues was a' hang'n out and their asses were dragging damn-near to the ground when ya'll returned, but they's all wear'n big smiles like a satisfied slave-boy after his master demanded his best, done worked him over real-good, and took what he needed, >> the bright angel drawled and returned Billy's wink.

Billy couldn't help but laugh, threw his big arms around Nick's neck, pulled him close, bussed a kiss behind his ear, and whispered, “My complements on your wicked cowboy talk, Tonto, and you're right, everything will be revealed soon after the Etheropteans arrive,” he said.

“I done figured as much. It's just the anticipation what makes my need to know itch,” Nick replied.

About that time, a huge gate opened and eight bald, naked giants, two by two, walked through carrying great staffs with enormous fan-like feathered ornamentation on the end. They were followed by eight other giants in long afghan robes with their bald heads covered by a similar ornamentation as the giants who preceded them. Finally, the most important Etheroptean with his consort and immediate family walked through the gate, followed by another eight of his court. When everyone cleared the gate, it disappeared and there was a great hush which came over the gathered assembly.

The top potentate was taller than the rest, and he was dressed in what looked like their idea of a leather kilt which was held onto his body with a massive 'X' strap, front and back. His immediate family wore regal, long flowing robes and the ones of the obvious ruling class had strange elongated heads covered either with a long, high hat or wrapped in fine linen. The leader or king carried two symbolic quirts which he crossed before him. They wore comfortable looking sandals held up by crisscrossed leather straps.

<< In the name of some unknown god and son of a gun! If'n they don't look just like them pitchers of them Pharaohs on Earth from early Egypt, I'll eat my hat! >> Nick sent his exclamation to Billy but forgot to single-channel his thought. Billy saw a tsunami of grins and agreed looks came over many faces; however, they were equally stunned as everyone else.

<< I remember one in particular. He could be a double for that Pharaoh Akhnaten from centuries ago, >> Billy returned and got strong feelings of agreement from his people.

<< Without a doubt, Master! >> he heard Balthazar whisper in his mind.

Activity came to a halt in the great courtyard and no one dared move. The new visitors were impressive and their leader was a fine looking giant over seven feet tall, exceptionally regal, and visually reeked of royal blood. Billy looked at his Uncle-in-laws and caught Gregor's eye. The huge watcher smiled and nodded his head. Gregor's approval was what Billy was looking for. Everyone watched as the big, handsome cowboy quickly removed his clothes. All eyes were on him. After he was completely naked, Billy pulled his beautiful dark green lizard skin boots on, stomped a couple of times like any cowboy worth the name, and slowly walked toward the gathered group.

The eight guards must have received a mental order from their king or pharaoh, and they slowly parted to allow Billy to advance closer. About six feet before the leader, Billy fell to his knees and bowed to the handsome alien king. Billy heard a soft but masculine voice. “Thank you for your humble gesture of respect to convince us of your sincerity and honesty. Arise, Billy Daniels, and stand before us as a friend that we may introduce ourselves and talk freely as equals. Now that you have shown us you carry no weapons and mean no harm, please feel free to take a moment to clothe yourself,” he said.

The ice was broken. Gregor, Albrecht, and the other dignitaries came forward to greet and welcome the visiting delegation from the Orion galaxy while Billy put his clothes on. The great giant humanoid introduced himself as Boa-Baleen Ho-Tep. Billy never cracked a smile, but he heard several mental giggles from his incorrigibly wicked posse. The large, tall, willowy giant immediately became 'Bubba Ho-tep' to the cowboys.* Billy heard it said, the incorrigible maleness of men is a standing rebuke to the Rousseau-inspired notions of human moral plasticity which are central to liberalism.* Billy didn't care. He wasn't a big Rousseau fan anyway. He wouldn't consider replacing a single one of his incorrigible posse for a hundred times their weight in gold. They were worth far more to him than any outsider could fathom, and he was an abject pauper when it came to words to describe his love for them. In his best mannerly attitude, Billy bowed again to the giants as Gregor introduced the Daniels family and the major players from other planets and galaxies.

Bubba Ho-Tep was as curious as anyone who was not in-the-know about Billy Daniels and his family. He was immediately taken by the wide variety of different people and critters who seemed to be living together in peace, harmony, and sometimes outrageous expressions of love and admiration for each other. Even more appealing to Ho-tep's curiosity was the unmistakable feeling they were a large family and treated each other as beloved friends and companions. The huge dogs and a beautiful small one could speak and answer any questions the new people asked. Everyone was well mannered and on their best behavior. They were fully aware they were proud representatives of the greater Daniels family.

The giant aliens were enthralled by the thirty winged Sun Bears and found them fascinating. Several were carrying babies they would nurse from time to time. They, too, could carry on an intelligent conversation and told stories of being rescued by Master Billy and his men. They were unable to speak when they were first rescued, but they could communicate mind-to-mind with Bossman Randy who told his master they were sentient. Later, Master Billy gifted them with the ability to speak and threw-in a set of beautiful wings. They were obviously very much in love with the Daniels family and Master Billy in particular. They looked healthy and seemed exceptionally happy with their lives.

The others were watching the newly arrived potentate closely to gauge his sincerity and receive feedback about his druthers and what he might find interesting or amusing. He seemed to be quite fond of the unusual sentient animals, but his eyes lit up with overwhelming interest when he looked upon Master Billy's three punishment slaves and the other strange creatures standing with them. Bubba Ho-tep threw caution and protocol aside and moved directly to them. “I would like to know each of your species and how you came to be living under the protection of Master Billy Daniels and his family?” he asked.

Bubba Ho-Tep watched as every eye in the gathered group looked at Billy for a cue. “Tell his royal highness what he would like to know. By his own words, the great giant is our friend and brother. We have accepted him as such, and he will be paid the same respect as any member of our family. Tell him the truth and hold nothing back from him,” Billy said quietly. They each began to tell their stories about the wonderful things their master and his family did for them. Jurgen Ironmonger and his daughter, Felicity, were most compelling when they told their story of being shot with a high-powered laser rifle by an anarchist in the town square and Master Billy saved their lives. Felicity was in tears when she described the confusion and fear she experienced that day, and the love and gentleness Master Billy showed her and her father while he ate their pain away and healed their wounds.

More stories followed from Cloog; Aeron; Archie and Edith; Razza, the dragon-man; Pan, the Panther-man; and Leon the Lion-man. Finally it came time for the three punishment slaves to tell their stories. Earl Hickson went first and told Bubba Ho-Tep everything. Orville Higginbothem was next and told the complete truth. Finally, it was Harley-Buck's turn, and he told his story. He even displayed his wash-board stomach and called attention to the slight bulge which he loving patted with his huge hand, “And this here bump, is my new son which I will give birth to in about five more months. My young bairn will then be transferred to one of our male Watcher's pouch for the rest of his development. The story of how I became pregnant with my own son is a mite complicated, but later, if you're interested and we have the time, I would be honored to explain, share with you the details, and answer any further questions you might have, your Royal Highness,” Harley-Buck said and bowed to Bubba Ho-Tep.

“I don't think our people have ever seen a race of half-man, half-animal as yourself. What species do you horned men represent?” Ho-Tep asked.

“Forgive us, your Majesty, we are human just like Master Billy and the rest of his family. We sport our horns and body modification because we asked for them when our master chose to gift us when we done something above and beyond the call of our station as slaves. He made us like he would like to see us and we're very proud to please him. We have the ability to change back to our human form if we want, but to do so strips us of our uniqueness. Watch and I will show you, Sire,” Harley-Buck said and began to morph back to his basic human self. When he finished he stood before the Pharaoh and smiled, “Which do you prefer to look upon, Sire?” he asked Bubba Ho-Tep.

“Your previous form – without a doubt. Master Billy has such powers?” Ho-Tep asked.

“Yes, Sire, and more than you can imagine. Never make the mistake of underestimating our young Cowboy-Master. At one time or another, Master Billy has healed or enhanced almost everyone you see around us. Him and his posse of Cowboy-Angels can perform what might seem like miracles to those who don't understand the intelligence and art behind his gifts,” Harley-Buck replied.

Suddenly, another large gate opened and a group of men from Fort Adam Lear rolled a huge Bosendorpher Imperial Grand piano onto the paved part of the large garden near the fountain. Billy watched as a smile crossed Ramrod Quigley's face, “Come Maestro! Play us a tune. We have been fortunate to enjoy your talent for conducting, but we rarely get to hear you play. Will you do us the honor, Sire?” Matt said as he made a sweeping gesture toward the large grand piano and grinned like a snake oil salesman with a full load to sell.

“What would you like to hear this beautiful morning on our home away from home?” Billy asked as he took long strides toward the giant beast.

“Something with plenty meat on the bone. We hear your Bach is pretty good,” Quigley urged him.

“Very well, but rumors can be deceptive. I'll be happy and honored to play for you good people. I will play Bach's Toccata in C minor BWV 911 in three movements. The final movement is a grand fugue in the form of a gigue. In the middle of the last movement is a great cadence, and you might think the piece is finished; however, like the late, great, revolutionary Bernie Sanders once said, 'To Hell with the super delegates! It ain't over until all the votes are counted!' If you find my playing worthy, please hold your applause at the cadence so you won't break my concentration. Bach decided he had more to say on the subject, and who am I to argue with such a genius,” Billy explained and smiled. Billy started in, and he was flawless. He played Bach like an angel should, and he held his audience within the palm of his hand until the last chord was struck.

“Holy crap! He's also an accomplished performing musician? This it too damn much!” Vic Bodega exclaimed in a whispered voice to his smaller companion. He had difficulty hiding his enthusiasm.

“Never heard the piece played better – even the old recordings of Gould couldn't touch what we just heard,” Orin Sawin replied.

The Gigue is one of Bach's more daunting keyboard works and Billy played it like a hot knife moves through butter. His playing was an experience among the stars – literally and figuratively. His audience applauded and cheered. Cowboy hats were flying all over the garden. Bubba Ho-Tep and his people got big-old smiles on their faces as they joined the infectiously ebullient outpouring of love and appreciation for the young cowboy, as they applauded with the rest of the audience.

* * * * * * *
After more refreshments were served, Gregor and Albrecht suggested the visiting delegations who were either leaders or ambassadors join them in their conference room in the palace. There was several hours before their featured performing guests from Earth must leave to travel into the major city for their first musical performance, and they dedicated a couple of hours for introductions, laying the foundation for the purpose of the meetings, and to establish protocol.

Everyone was invited into a great hall to sit around a large table. There was no particular seating arrangements. The guests were encouraged to sit where they felt most comfortable. Billy took only those of his closest family, the two leaders of his personal guards, the three major humanoids from the Essengurda, and the military men from Earth, including Tree Griffin and Tank Barger. Wearing their western clothes, they didn't look like military men, but nonetheless, they were introduced as such. Billy chose several of his top-notch Angels, Meat, Gabriel, Balthazar, Zeke, Clyde, and Cowboy Andy.

The only mature female present was Aunt Helen. Billy wouldn't dare exclude his and Bubba's second brain. He also gave her explicit instructions neither to be shy nor allow herself to be intimidated. The other members of Billy's posse were the young ones; Bossman Randy Rutherford and his sister Kayla; Pard Andreeson; Rory and Calhoun McMartin with their dad; Lem Boynton with his family; and Tommy Griffin with his uncles; all of whom, over the months, earned their seats at this important conference as well as his other family members. Billy gambled, while it might raise some concerns among the other members of the hearing, he suffered no qualms as to the wisdom of his choice.

Gregor rose, acknowledged everyone around the table, and began to set the stage for discussion, stressing their interest in cooperating together to make suggestions how to most effectively bring change to the political structure on Earth and rescue it from the abject greed of the upper one tenth of one percent of the population who owned most of the wealth of the planet. Gregor also stated another part of their mission was to make a concerted effort to save the planet from overpopulation and re-balance the natural function of the planet as a living organism by banning fossil fuels. Gregor went on to express his and his co-ruler of Retikki Prime concerns, and what they have been doing up to that point. A few of Gregor's admissions came as a surprise to Billy and his family, but they were none the worse for his and Albrecht's mischievous meddling. Nick's admonishment came true. One could never tell when something happened or a fortunate situation occurred whether it was by chance or the result of clever manipulations by Billy's Uncle-in-laws.

To Billy's surprise, when Gregor finished, he turned the floor over to him. Billy rose from his chair and looked around the room at familiar faces he loved and the strange faces of the concerned races who found the meeting important enough to attend. “Ladies and Gentlemen, Galactic Friends, and Neighbors,” he began, “I neither know how nor why I was chosen to represent my planet at this conference, but I will tell you it's a great honor to stand before you to give you some idea where we are in the societal mess on our planet. We seek not only your wise council and guidance, but also your help and cooperation in whatever path we decide to travel to reclaim and restore our once beautiful world. As a great leader for human civil rights from our planet once said, "I have a dream!" I have a dream of returning our world to its pristine beauty and bountifulness as it was less than a century ago. I have a dream of fulfilling the promise of man's rightful hope for pride and joy in a beautiful garden – the fabled garden of Eden. As the leader of our group, I choose to give the dreams of our movement the name of 'Edenist.'

“We have prepared a holo-video to give you some idea of the history and beauty of our planet. I think my talented staff has done an excellent job of capturing and recording the highs and lows of our world. We will show you the beauty along with our raw, abject failures, and the unforgivable squalor created by uncontrolled greed. We will also show you some of the ideas my family have implemented and the accomplishments we have already made in a short period of time. It is our hope, after viewing the video, you will have a better idea on which to base your opinions and suggestions. The run-time for our video is a little over an hour. We can take a break in the middle if necessary.

“The background musical score for this presentation is a blatant rip-off from another film from the late 20th Century called 'Koyaanisqatsi' written by a highly influential musical genius, Philip Glass. The word 'Koyaanisquatsi' comes from the language of the indigenous native American tribe of people called the 'Hopi', and is loosely translated into American English to mean 'life out of balance.' We thought it was the perfect metaphor to describe the present state of our world. One of the Hopi prophecies paints a terrible picture for the fate of our planet if the words of the prophecy are not heeded,” Billy paused for a moment, “The prophecy states, 'If we dig precious things from the land, we will invite disaster. Near the day of Purification, there will be cobwebs spun back and forth in the sky. A container of ashes might one day be thrown from the sky, which will burn the land and boil the oceans'. It's not a pretty picture, but alas, the metaphor is quickly becoming a reality,” Billy added.

The lights were lowered, and Billy turned the video presentation over to Aunt Helen and her twelve mini-tech genius-apostles. They carefully added a narration to the film written by Billy and expertly voiced by Doug Quilty. Much of the video was filmed by Wes Taylor, but about a quarter was stock footage. Everything came together under the supervision of their new station master, Stan Norsworthy. The three men, Aunt Helen, and her crew were a winning combination. The video left no doubt in anyone's mind it was a professional presentation of the highest quality. The entire crew was there with Billy's family to enjoy the pride of their excellent accomplishment.

It began showing a slowly revolving view of the planet called Earth, which looked like a giant blue marble from outer space. The video began to move from one continent to another to highlight the overwhelming beauty of the planet and the native wildlife of the different regions. Then it moved into the crowded cities and the stark difference between the haves and the have nots. The video then showed how each continent and every nation were being used, manipulated, at the expense of those unable to fight the wealth and corruption of big money corporations. The presentation started with the two American continents, North and South, and moved West across the Pacific Ocean but did not leave out the life in the sea and the depletion of species from over hunting, huge net fishing, illegal whaling, and the destruction off the ocean floors from enormous drag net trawling.

It also pointed out the destruction of the oceans' ecosystems by pouring enormous quantities of toxic chemicals into them as byproducts of industrial waste including radio-active waste which has a half-life of thousands of years. They showed how the relocation of invasive species not endemic to a certain area could cause havoc and destroy many other species – all due to the intervention of mankind. Motives ran from the knowingly wicked maliciousness of corporations while others were simply the unforgivable stupidity of individuals who didn't have the heart to kill an unwanted aquarium fish and released it into the ocean. Then, there were those who released huge rodents into swamps of North America – to say nothing of introducing the invasive Kudzu plant to the southern states which chokes out all other vegetation and can grow at the incredible rate of twelve inches a day.

After exploring the island continent of Australia and some glorious shots of strange and wonderful animals, the video moved on to the South Pacific lands and covered the Asian countries of Japan, China, India, Russia, and all the surrounding lands. Europe was next to last, and finally the African continent. As the film migrated to Egypt there was a shot high above the Earth from the International Space Station which clearly showed a spectacular shot of the three great pyramids of Giza from outer-space. A great hubbub occurred among the new guests, the Etheropteans. Bubba Ho-Tep rose from his chair, and the rest of his posse followed his lead. Aunt Helen paused the video on the three pyramids.

“Alnitak! Alnilam! Mintaka!” Ho-Tep shouted while pointing his forefinger at the screen, “Gaeia-Isis Eye-re-dani! The mother of the lost world!” he added. The Etheropteans were beside themselves with surprised joy and enthusiasm. For a moment, things were a wee-bit 'gang-aft-agley,' as they say in the Highlands when a supreme moment of confused joy spontaneously occurs and social norms fall apart from simultaneous expressions of uncontrolled excitement in a crowd. One might compare it to the expression, 'they went absolutely bananas.'

“What the Hell is Alnitak, Alnilam, and Mintaka?” General Royce Boynton asked.

“The three stars in Orion's belt, General,” Nick said, “The Pyramids of Giza were built in perfect alignment with them three stars. Any number of pyramids, from the old world to the new, are built in much the same order. They were built to be seen from long distances to direct space travelers to the lost tribes of the Etheropteans what came to Earth and genetically modified several races of hominids, who later became the Europeans and the Ethiopians. I can't be real sure about the last – it's speculation on my part, but if'n I was a bet'n man, I'd put my last chip on Momma Gaeia-Isis Eye-redani being the mother of mankind,” he added.

“And I have no doubt you'd walk away from the table a wealthy man, Captain – my Captain,” Billy said and smiled at his surrogate pa. Billy, turned away from Nick and the General to speak to Bubba Ho-Tep. “There's more to discover your Highness, and more to uncover regarding this unusual coincidence. We suspected their might be a closer kin with your race than we first believed; however, when you came through the gate with your people, we knew there must be some connection – some greater bond, than we could imagine,” Billy said in a calm voice.

There was a hush came over the room. “Please, forgive our outburst, Master Billy. In our excitement, we have forgotten our manners and the core of our mission to learn about your people – to contribute our knowledge and make sound suggestions; however, with this discovery, our purpose has become all the more sweet and purposeful. We hope we might learn as much as we can to form a more close bond with you and your people,” Bubba Ho-Tep said stately.

“It is our hope as well, your Royal Highness,” Billy said in a comforting tone of voice, “Now, if you will please be seated, we will continue the video,” he urged, and everyone sat down again. The room settled down, Billy nodded to Aunt Helen, and she gave a nod to her technicians to continue the video. Billy was right, there was a lot more pictures and explanations of the Egyptian dynasties putting them in context to earliest history before the common era. There was lots of pictures of huge stone likenesses to old Pharaohs and their Royal Consorts. When the video flashed images of Akhnaten and Queen Nefertiti there were more whispers among the Etheropteans. They were enthralled by the treasures and brilliantly colored sarcophagus's of a number of Egyptian rulers.

The video moved on to cover the disastrous political systems which took over the planet about midway during the past century with the elections of Ronald Reagan in the United States and Margaret Thatcher in the U.K. It explained how governments along with rabid fundamental religious extremist preached conservatism and austerity to the masses. It went on to discuss how the preachers, politicians, and the corporate-elite-controlled media played the old bait and switch routine, wore rags to preach their democracy killing ideas to the public but quickly changed their dress and wore Brook Brother's suits to celebrate their gains on Wall Street.

Rather than be satisfied with a more safe but slower economical system of making money from the ground up to feed the roots, they devised a deeply flawed trickle-down theory which allowed for massive corruption. While 'fixing' the economy, they slowly choked to death the last vestiges of a secure, working democracy by installing rigged voting-machines which paid-off like slot machines guaranteeing a jackpot for the established status quo every four years. If that wasn't enough they instigated wicked voter suppression laws to make sure their candidate always won. The video narrative carefully explained how the wealthy one tenth of one percent of the population were the corpulent, corrupt, out-of-control and festering cancer on the backside of humanity. It heavily stressed, the cancer was growing larger each year with no end in sight.

The last part of the video was devoted to the greater Daniels family and the strides they were making while trying to start a quiet revolution by creating their own reality of family and a community who looked out for each other and worked toward achieving goals for the betterment of everyone and not just a few. After the video finished, Billy made a brief speech thanking the members of the races who attended and looked forward to their suggestion in the next couple of days. Billy understood there would be two meeting a day for their three day visit. They broke up the meeting and returned to the courtyard were the servants of the castle were serving a noon meal. Billy noticed a couple of large trays of slave chow with nutrient biscuits. He was amused when he saw Bubba Ho-Tep and his party try the golden nuggets and then filled a quarter of their tray with them.

It seemed Ho-Tep had more in common with the humans from Earth than the other races and tended to gravitate to where they were gathered. Billy and his people were neither shy nor overbearing. They were gracious, courteous, and for the most part were respectful toward the great giant Pharaoh and his court. They could sense the monarch and his party felt out of place and went out of their way to include and welcome him, his wives, and his court into their midst. By the time the noon meal was over, Billy and his family won the hearts and minds of the Etheropteans.

The time came for those going into town to leave for the afternoon concert. They gathered their instruments and left for the mag-amp-lift to make the journey. It was a time of great excitement and discovery for the people of Earth who were experiencing the journey for the first time. Billy kept their spirits up by reminding them they were the first orchestra on Earth to be able to claim they took their talents out into the universe and played on other worlds.

The four fake NSA men were blown away by their good fortune to have been included to travel to another world. “I wonder how many of them men what conned us into joining the NSA have ever set foot on another world?” Vic Bodega asked his second in command.

“You know the answer to that question,” Orin Sawin replied.

“I don't care about politics and governments. How many damn times I done told you I only took the job because I couldn't get nothing else what paid worth a damn?” Bodega asked like he was agitated.

“More'n I can remember, Bull. That's pretty much the same story for every man in our squad, Brother, including yours truly,” Sawin replied, “So does this mean you plan to give up your hard-nose thoughts about exposing Billy Daniels and his family as some kind of right wing conspiracy extremist who plans to overthrow the government?” he asked.

“He certainly ain't no right wing extremist, and from what we done seen and heard about him, he ain't into overthrowing the government. If anything, I think he's more left of center while setting an example and showing the way to a better tomorrow for those who choose to follow him and his family,” Bodega said, “However, if he's successful, and starts to gain in popularity, he's also going to get the attention of the establishment – the status quo – and they will do everything in their power to fight against him and shut him down. Unless he agrees to live by their rules, he won't stand a chance,” Bodega added.

“That's where we part company with our ideas, Bull. I think you're wrong. He ain't going about his revolution like some tin-pot dictator with a flawed past. Admit it, we ain't seen a leader like him who the people love so much since we's kids and our parents voted for Bernie Sanders. He was the last great hope for a true revolution or renaissance for our country, and after Trump declared martial law and the right wing extremist took over our country, we've never had another real vote for our governors. They keep talking about it, but everyone knows it will never happen. The religious right and the corporations took over and have been in power ever since. I'd give my left nut to know what was discussed in that meeting this morning with them other aliens,” Sawin said.

“It could cost us our lives, Runt,” Bodega said.

“Then again, if we pick a winner, it will be a life worth fighting for even if we have a slim chance of winning. I'm willing to put my faith in Billy Daniels and his family. At least he offers hope,” Orin Sawin said firmly.

* * * * * * *
The sea of people who were patiently waiting at the station for the special train of mag-amp-lifts were excited and cheered as the special train pulled into the side station. They were yelling and calling Billy's name. Billy's immediate family knew what to expect, but the orchestra members and new guests were flabbergasted by the size and the ebullience of the crowd. They were not like crowds on Earth who were pushing and shoving each other rudely to move closer to get a better look. They were loud but polite and made room for their guests to make their way through the crowd. Billy noticed another train arrived in a separate station and brought it to Boomer's attention. “Our uncles told me they built that special train and have a secure area for themselves and their visiting royalty. It's the first time in centuries our uncles have left the security of their castle,” he explained.

“I wonder if Bubba Ho-Tep and his entourage will join them,” Billy mused to his husband.

“As I understand it, it was one of Ho-Tep's personal requirements for him to visit Retikki Prime, Billy,” Boomer replied.

“Ya' gotta' admire a ruler what's bold enough to mingle with crowds to watch someone he's only heard about. He's got balls,” Billy said and smiled at Boomer.

“There's more you don't know about, Husband,” Boomer said.

“There always is, Big Daddy,” Billy said, and giggled, “Are you in good voice today?” Billy asked.

“I warmed up in the great hall before the meeting. Vox put me through my paces like a thoroughbred getting ready for the Derby,” Boomer said, and they shared a laugh.

“Good! I want you to knock our uncle's socks off. Do they have a clue, Boo?” Billy asked.

“No! And everyone in our group knows better than to tell them. For once, we just might put one over on them lovable old codgers,” Boomer said, and they laughed again.

They finally came to the center of the plaza and found their larger instruments already there and set up. The video and sound enhancers were in place and working. They were checked and rechecked. Aunt Helen and her team were in their places and running last minute tests on the systems. The royal guests found their seats and everyone settled down in the plaza. It was the largest group of people Billy ever saw. Billy's family was sitting in a roped off area before the stage and there were several empty seats. Billy looked out and saw the two young musicians who played the Oolong so wonderfully their last time on Retikki prime whose performance was untimely interrupted when an anarchist tried to kill Balthazar.

He gave a loud whistle and pointed directly to them. He directed them to get up and come down front to sit with his family. The crowd went crazy for their two local musicians, and they gratefully followed Master Billy's instructions. Billy walked down from the podium, gave each one a big bear hug and stole a kiss. The crowd even went more bananas. Billy could do no wrong in their eyes. The Maestro returned to the podium and greeted the crowd. They cheered and applauded. After they quieted down, Billy began to speak. “I can't tell you good people how wonderful it is to once again be visiting our home away from home!” he almost yelled into the microphone like a rock star. Once again the crowd went crazy. “Hosanna!” Billy shouted.

“Hosanna, in the highest!” everyone shouted back to him.

“We weren't going to do the same concert we played at our dedication to our new auditorium in a great complex we're building back home; however, my husband's family, my in-laws, said they would be terribly hurt if we didn't. Boomer and I don't want to displease our elders and to be sent to bed without our evening meal, so we agreed and decided it might be prudent to include everything,” Billy said and everyone laughed. He went on to explain the first piece, and pictures of the composer came on the huge overhead video. Billy went on to explain his family's relationship with a highly advanced alien who was known as Him Who Made The Seven Stars who came to their aid during a tight situation when they were rescuing some angels who were placed in stasis thousands of years ago. The performance of the piece was an homage and a way of saying thanks for his kind intervention.

The first half of the concert went by like a dream in Billy's mind. His people, and his orchestra, as he came to think of the members of the Houston Philharmonic, were in top form. Billy could almost swear they were more acutely aware of their creative powers than they ever were since they started making music together. Their ability and sensitivity to communicate with the other members of their orchestra was remarkable – on the verge of spooky. The three Bach Brandenburg Concertos displayed their unique ensemble abilities and showcased several exceptionally talented soloist. It proved the same with Jesse Jones playing of the first Beethoven Piano Concerto. The audience was mesmerized by his playing and insisted on three encores. One of their favorites, Roz Cumber, captured their hearts with her playing of the Hindemith Kammermusic for Viola, and there was no doubt, she was pregnant. Finally the playing of Master Billy's own composition by the Byrd men, father and son, damn near brought on a love fest never before experienced in the center of the city. The Byrds also played two encores.

Billy gave another brief talk about Beethoven's ninth symphony and how the last piece they would play was his final work. He explained it was an Ode To Joy and the words of the final movement would be shown and translated on the huge overhead video screen while they performed. They would also show pictures of Beethoven at different ages. Billy told the tragic story of Beethoven writing his final work after he lost his ability to hear. The poor old man never got to hear the performance of his last great work and could only feel the vibrations of the music through his feet.

It was a better and much smoother performance than the musicians played on their home planet. The orchestra put their hearts and souls into it and when the last note was played there was a stunned silence overcame the audience like they were dumbfounded. Then all Hell broke loose. It was the greatest ovation Billy and the orchestra ever received. It went on for several minutes. Billy and Boomer's relatives couldn't have been more proud. The concert manager who produced the occasion was a very happy man. It was a great feather in Billy's hat, and he took bow after bow along with his orchestra family.

* * * * * * *
After the concert, the people from Earth took the train back to the castle into the mountains. The dignitaries took a different train. When they arrived at the palace, they went to their rooms to freshen up a bit before the final meal of the day was ready. The rest of the evening was unscheduled and everyone could do as they pleased.
Billy and his posse attended another two hour meeting with the leaders from the eight cultures represented. Considering the men from Earth were one of the cultures, of the other seven, three were hereditary monarchies. Of the three hereditary monarchies, the Etheropteans were the most strong and demanding with the mother-load of all trickle down theories form of government as their complex codex decreed. The Pharaoh and his family got the lion's share of their world's income, and what was left was divided among the priestly cast, the trade cast, and finally the lower casts, who barely had enough to live-on with no health benefits and died young. It was the Etheropteans way of keeping their population in check and their people under control. At least that's the way they explained themselves.

The second strongest monarchy with considerably more empathy for their people was the Gregori, and the third was the Heimlicks who operated more like a democratic monarchy similar to Great Britain. Three of the societies, the Spiritkins, the Gregots, and the Irin were progressive liberal social democracies. The strangest, most unusual of the representatives was a military society, the Soaronpastus, who created several layers of social interaction which, strangely enough, made for an unusually liberal government who shared control with their people. Billy wondered if their being a telepathic race might have something to do with their form of government.

Four of the seven's leaders of the Gregori, the Irin, the Spiritkins, and the Gregots openly discussed their form of government, while the other three left the discussion to their second in command. They explained their form of governments with much praise for the good parts but failed to fully discuss the bad parts. At the end of each speech, they gave their ideas and opinions about how to grasp control of the government on Earth, and offered plans how to go about population control.

From dream conversations with one of his surrogate Granddads, Captain Nemo, Billy knew there were only three of the societies beside his enhanced humans and angels who could send and receive thoughts – the Gregori, the Irin, and the military society, the Soaronpastus. As each speaker talked about their society, the Mentats – as Billy named anyone who could send and received another's thoughts – exchanged interesting corollaries between the speaker's government and the situation on Earth, and there was a never ending trolley of 'Mentat-tweets' consisting of one or two sentences which were either sharp rebukes or a drop-dead funny comment.* It was all the three Mentat races could do to keep from laughing out loud; however, several were looking down and coughing in their hands trying to keep a somber presence. The Gregori, the Irins, and the Soaronpastus, could control their laughter and suppressed it to a wry, and sometimes wicked smile. The men and angels from Earth? Not so much.

In Billy's opinion, and to his disappointment, the very worst of the societies seemed to be the Etheropteans. While their ideas about economics might have worked for them, several other of their recommendations seemed rather barbaric to those of the other representatives. Their ideas of population control varied from mass murder, to forced sterilization. Billy wondered how could a civilization be so advanced in certain aspects of their society as he was told and not seem to be concerned in the least for the lesser of their people? If their people overpopulated or grew to demand too much, press the delete button, flush the toilet, and forget about them. It just didn't make sense to him and several others of his party. Several of his posse began to wondered just how advanced they were or if his and Boomer's uncles and Ramrod Matt Quigley were sold a worthless bill of goods. Nothing was said or questioned and Billy sent a mental squelch around to his people not to 'tweet' negative thoughts about the Etheropteans. Billy's posse were dedicated to their master, but tensions were rising. He could feel it in the air and smelled the strong male scent of fresh testosterone beginning to bloom in their lower meadows.

<< I can't stomach much more of this, Big Brother. I'm sit'n here under a heavy pile of bullshit about to explode all over them self-righteous som-bitches. Religious representatives must be the same in every corner of the universe,” >> Randy sent to Billy.

<< I heard that, and I got chore back. Go for it, Little Brother! Just try not to get none of their crap on them new boots you be wear'n, >> Billy returned. There were several gasps and a couple of giggles from the Mentats around the table.

There came a pause in the Priest's talk. “Bullshit!” Randy shouted and slammed his small fist on the table to get the priest's attention, “I ain't never heard me such insane talk about killing people with mass murder and controlling whether they can have children. We ain't mass murderers, and while I can't speak for my big brother and the rest of my cowboy brothers, I would never consider such an outrageous thing!” Randy said in anger.

There was a moment of hushed silence, “Do you allow your children to comment, Master Billy?” the head priest representing Bubba Ho-Tep asked in an irritated and condescending manner.

“Absolutely, sir! Bet chore' ass, Preacher-man! I certainly do allow them to express their opinions. I wouldn't have allowed Bossman Randy and his brothers and sister to be in this meeting if every damn one of them didn't prove to me and my men they earned their place to sit at this table as fully fledged members of my family!” Billy exclaimed.

“Hosanna!” shouted Zeke.

“Hosanna, in the highest!” echoed almost every person in the hall.

“Do you have a better idea, Young Man?” the haughty priest asked.

“Jesus! Did you ever ask the wrong question, Preacher Man? In the name of some unknown god, please be gentle with him, Bossman,” Billy said plaintively and broke up laughing. Everyone around the table laughed at Billy.

Randy started like he was holding a buzz-saw in his hand, “We got us a planet full of wacko religions who are constantly at odds with each other and fighting every way they can to become the dominant religion to rule over the rest. Some are more fanatic and extreme than others, and like you, believe in killing everyone what don't believe the same myths and superstitions they do. When you peel back the layers of their myths and look at the naked underbelly of their beliefs, not surprisingly, they's just as crazy as your ideas of mass murder. We don't wanna' kill nobody, and knowing the pathology of religion and the 'true believer,' there ain't no way to head them off at the pass to keep them from stampeding and going over the cliff,” Randy said, “But there's got to be something better'n 'nat! We want to rebuild a Peaceable Kingdom without the 'King' or 'gimme'-dat-old-time-religion crap,” he added.

The priest opened his mouth to speak. “I wouldn't if'n I's you, Preacher. I know my little brother. He just stepped up to the plate, and he's about to knock one out of the park. Like big animals in a zoo, you don't want to hand feed them,” Billy admonished the priest, winked, and grinned.

Randy didn't wait for the priest to make up his mind, “We come to ask for your help, not to get no lecture on how to dispose of our lower classes. You can't tell me with the science and technology you people are suppose to possess, you ain't got a number of uninhabited, pristine worlds just a sit'n out there in one of them galaxies what would make a perfect home for several of the major religions on our planet. Just think about it! We could offer the four major religions a virgin planet for them and those who believe like them. We only need four. One we could call the promise land for the Jews, another we'd call paradise or Ma'ad for the Muslims, one called Heaven for the Christians, and Nirvana for them Hindus. The best part is, it wouldn't be based on faith. They could actually see videos of their new world. We could sell it to them for a modest fee and make money to help save our world, but we wouldn't deny the poor of any sect.

“Forget about them Mormon loonies, according to their scriptures, they ain't suppose to get their own planet until after they die – unless, of course, you feel generous and give us five. We could call the fifth planet Kohlrabi and them Mormon men could have all the wives they want on their new world. We could offer them 'true-believer' religious folks a deadline of a year to make up their minds, but once't they walked through the gate to their new world, there would be no return; howsomever, if'n you are very generous and give us six planets, we might be able to assist you with some problems you might need help accomplishing,” Randy finished.

“Outrageous! Why we would never consider such...” the priest objected, but got cut off by his Pharaoh.

“Enough, Setee!” Bubba Ho-Tep ordered quietly. “Young Man, you have impressed me. I would be honored if you, your brother, his husband, and his Pa, Captain Nick, will take your evening meal with me,” he said.

“Ya' got any of them naked dance'n girls?” Randy asked enthusiastically. Everyone laughed but groaned at the same time.

“That's enough, Little Brother!” Billy admonished Randy and smiled, “We'd be honored to be your guests, your Royal Highness,” Billy said, stood, and bowed.

There were a few more suggestions which came from the Soaronpastus warriors. They were cogent, empathetic, intelligent, and offered highly applicable ideas. The military men in Billy's family took to them right away and came to respect them as competent, no nonsense, military men and knew what they were talking about. Even after the meeting was over and everyone gathered in the garden for their evening meal, the military men sat with each other and continued their conversation. The general shared with Billy, he gained more usable information from the top brass of the Soaronpastus than he ever did at West Point. General Royce Boynton confided in Billy his heart was at ease, and he was shown the way to the road he must travel to bring about what Billy and his family hoped to accomplish.

* * * * * * *
Billy, Boomer, Nick, and Randy arrived at the Pharaoh's quarters and the two huge guards bowed and opened the double doors for them. They were met by Bubba Ho-Tep and his number one wife who was a great Etheroptean beauty. She put Nefertiti to shame. She never spoke the whole time they were there. None of Ho-Tep's guards or Priests were present. The food was different but delicious and plenty of it. They didn't walk away hungry. Boomer ate some things, but Billy knew he longed for his chow. Talk was informal and the Pharaoh asked many questions, like he was trying to feel out Billy to see if he could speak openly with him without regret. Finally, they finished their meal, the plates were removed, and they were left with great gold cups filled with a mulled sweet dessert wine which contained only a very small amount of alcohol. Small sweet cookies of different animal shapes were served on individual gold plates. When the slaves were through serving, Bubba Ho-Tep waved them away.

“I have heard from several reliable sources – sources I trust with my life – for all your talents and the bravado pride of your loving family, you are a man of considerable honor, compassion for others, and your word can be trusted, Maestro Daniels,” Bubba Ho-Tep threw out as a starter.

“I like to think of myself that way, Sire, but like most humans, I have my days I lose faith in myself. For those few, rare days, I rely on the strength and guidance of my family to keep me on the straight and narrow road I must travel,” Billy replied, “Would it be too bold of me to say, I sense you might have a pressing problem of such a nature you are forced to seek resolve outside your culture, Sire?” he asked.

“Too bold? Not at all, sir. I was told you're somewhat psychic, perhaps even a bit clairvoyant, or as my priests contend, a seer; although, none of them have ever seen anything past their noses. You are right, I have a rather large problem which I can't resolve by myself. I have postponed having children because of my anxiety due to an unhealthy family practice of inbreeding. I'm afraid I don't possess the ability to produce a healthy heir to inherit my throne after my death,” Bubba laid his cards on the table, “I've heard rumors you can perform amazing health or physical transformations in humanoids. If your punishment slaves are an example of your work, I would not hesitate to place myself and my queen in your care, sir,” Bubba added.

“You removed your slave's tongues…?” Randy exclaimed in disgust.

“Hesh-up, Bossman!” Billy checked Randy, “Now is not the time to rebuke another race for their practices! There's an old saying from an early England play, Henry IV, by Billy Bob Shakespeare, 'Uneasy lies the head what wears the crown...' It ain't all ice cream and cake being a monarch. No matter your rank in the food chain, there's always room for anxiety,” Billy explained.

“Exactly, sir. If the religious class ever found out, it could cause a rebellion, and we would be replaced,” Bubba said with considerable anxiety.

“What makes you think you are incapable of having an healthy heir, your Majesty?” Billy asked.

“We tried, and kept it secret from our religious class. My personal household slaves who tend us have been rendered mute. They know better than to answer any question a priest might ask them. They are out of bounds on the playing field, and if a priest was ever caught trying to pump my personal staff for information, it is grounds for gross infamy and punishable by immediate execution. While my queen was pregnant, she only wore large robes to hide her condition, and I took her away to our private retreat when it was time for her to give birth to the baby. My first child was born a microcephalic,” Bubba Ho-Tep explained quietly.

“Male or Female?” Billy asked.

“Male,” Bubba Ho-Tep replied sadly.

“How long ago?” Billy asked.

“Thirty of your days, Master Billy,” Ho-Tep replied.

“My god, he's just a baby, but all the better and easier to refurbish. I'm afraid to ask my next question...” Billy said.

“I couldn't bring myself to destroy our own flesh. He's alive and in the care of mute servants who helped raised me. They are a faithful older couple who would do anything for me. I would trust them with my life. They are living on an insignificant planet in our system,” Bubba Ho-Tep explained. “Can you help us, Master Billy?” he asked.

“I can, but you must understand and agree to my terms,” Billy said firmly.

“You men are looking at a desperate Pharaoh; the supreme Monarch of my people with unlimited wealth at my disposal. Name your price, sir! I can make you the wealthiest man on your planet,” Bubba Ho-Tep said firmly.

“Wait a minute! I didn't say anything about a price, your Highness. I said you must agree to my 'terms,'” Billy said equally firmly.

“And your terms would be…?” Bubba asked.

“If our DNA is compatible, I will have to give you some of mine to rebuild and stove-up your weaker genetic information. I will have to give your wife new genetic information from a human female donor of high rank in our society. Do you understand what that would mean, Sire?” Billy asked.

“We would become your relatives? Would I become your brother?” Bubba Ho-Tep asked in reply.

“For all practical purposes, if you carry a part of my DNA we would become brothers. Early natives of our species made a ritual, if two men wanted to become more than friends, they mingled their blood to become brothers. That's as close as you can get to exchanging DNA. Your wife, and your offspring would also become a part of our family,” Billy said firmly.

“I couldn't imagine considering such a thing with any other being, but let there be no doubt in your mind, I would certainly consider it a great honor to become a part of your family, Master Billy. I've seen how you interrelate with your people and you are greatly loved by everyone,” Bubba Ho-Tep said like he was going to break into 'Kumbaya'.

“I ain't through with my terms, Master Ho-Tep,” Billy said and smiled.

“Please! Go on! Speak! Let me hear them,” Ho-Tep said.

“You must bring your son and his caretakers to us. Also, you must give up your trusted men who are sent to gather them so there is no trail left. My husband, Boomer, will accompany your men to sedate your bairn with his milk and hide him in his pouch. We will also take them unto us, make them part of our family, and help them find rewarding lives to live. I will adjust and refurbish your son to become a normal person and restore his keepers, but I will see to it he has a different DNA pattern so complex he can never be traced back to you. I promise, the Etheropteans you give us will live full and happy lives, but your son will never know he has royal blood in his veins. We will make sure he is happy and comfortable with his life, and his parentage will not be important to him. Only you, your wife, and a few members of my family will know,” Billy said, and continued, “Once you and your wife lie under me and my men so we can make the necessary physical adjustments, you must then return to your quarters and copulate. The next morning, I will take a small sample of your wife's blood. Me and my men-of-medical-arts will taste it to confirm success or failure. If all goes well, you do a good job, and Mrs. Ho-Tep is pregnant, then you can be assured your problem will be solved. You may sire as many children as you choose without worry. Our failure rate is guaranteed less than one percent,” Billy bragged. “Those are my terms, Bubba Ho-Tep,” he added.

“Nothing more?” the Pharaoh asked.

“Nothing more, Bubba,” Billy replied.

“Uh, Brother... about them planets...” Randy said quietly.

“Hesh up, Little Brother. Haven't I given you my love unconditionally and taken care of you beyond your expectations?” Billy asked.

“Of course you have. You saved my life when I was dying of an incurable disease. The doctors gave up on me and sent me home to die. I only had a few weeks to live before I took my last breath. Then I met you by accident, you opened your arms and called for me to come to you. I have no complaints. I got your brutally honest message loud and clear. I may self-flagellate myself for a while and bleed emotionally, but thanks to you, I'll recover. I understand your message, Bubba,” Randy said.

“What does 'Bubba' mean?” the Pharaoh asked.

“Brother,” Randy replied dryly and smiled sweetly.

“Oh, I see. I understand your brother's message,” said Bubba Ho-Tep. “A brother takes care of his brother and sees to his needs,” he added.

“Be careful, your Majesty. Thoughts like that might cause a revolution,” Randy said, and the men shared a nervous laugh.

End of Chapter 97 ~ Seek Him What Made Them Seven Stars
Copyright ~ © ~ 2017 ~ Waddie Greywolf ~ All Rights Reserved
E-mail: Waddie Greywolf <[email protected]>
WC = 22,669
06/05/2016
01/20/2017

* * * * * * *
* Scots-Irish or Scotch-Irish ~ http://www.ulsterscotslanguage.com/en/texts/scotch-irish/scotch-irish-or-scots-irish/

* More cowbell ~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NnI5_0YOumE

* Siegfried Idyll ~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0QsSCPoa0w

* Etheropteans ~ from whence came the two tribes of Europeans and Ethiopians.

*Boa-Baleen Ho-tep ~ http://bubbahotep.com/

* Incorrigible quote ~ Richard Lowry, National Review, 3 July 2000

* Glenn Gould ~ J.S. Bach ~ Toccata in C minor BWV 911 ~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFK5Mc1o9-8&list=PLF6edU5hWE2QSJZslsR5Q3ziOzTcLOI2F

* Mentat ~ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mentats_of_Dune