WACO’S LUMMOX
Waddie
Greywolf
Chapter 67
After Monty morphed his body to a normal state, returned Jimmy
Joe’s boots to his makeshift altar, and doused the votive candles,
he cleaned himself and went to bed. He was not sorry he decided to
spend the night by himself. He was with people continually from
the time he was sent to jail until this night. He realized he
hadn’t been alone in over six months. He thought he might panic,
but he didn’t. He found it quite peaceful to be by himself with
his own thoughts, and only himself to worry about. He lay in bed
thinking about Jimmy Joe, but not in the same way he seemed to
obsess about Shanna or Coyote John. His thoughts about his ramrod
were like the words to an old country/Western song he heard one
time, gentle on his mind. He didn’t think about Ramrod Russell’s
relationship with Burt Stamper. It just never occurred to Monty to
be the jealous type. Jealously is born of self-doubt,
insecurities, and selfishness. Monty felt none of those things.
Monty was secure in his innate abilities and was soaking up the
possibilities of his newly discovered talents like a sponge
morphed into a super computer. His thoughts about his personal
image and Ramrod Jimmy Joe Russell were at peace with each other.
He was so different all his life, he would adjust to anyone’s
needs or try to become anything to please them, just to have them
like him. In essence, Monty became the bad boy lover Shanna
Ruggles needed to rebel against the strict, unbending, draconian
prison to which her fundamentalist parents subjected her. In the
darkest moments of any form of psychological repression, be it
political tyranny or severe pressure from religious conformity,
often comes a subconscious desire for freedom of the soul to shed
the bonds of submission. Shanna’s spark was not well thought out,
and before it could burst forth into a flame of passion, it was
quickly doused by her much more powerful father’s insane need to
control everyone and everything in his world. Like the worm
attached to the head of an angler fish, child abuse hides behind
the facade of religious goodness like a steal trap. It was a good
thing they weren’t Muslims. Shanna would have fared far
worse.
Growing up by himself, Monty had few role models, other than
Dexter for a companion, to help him form a healthy give and take
concept of love. He came to see most people as rejecting. His
mother, for whatever reasons, left him without explanation. His
grandfather never accepted him. If it were not for the Ongs, he
never would have developed a concept of self-worth or affection
for others. They established within him the hope not all people
are users and some could be counted on to help him without
expecting anything in return. With guarded reason, they became the
ones on which he showered his affections. It wasn’t that he tried
to buy people’s love or friendship, but with the Ong’s influence
he developed into a giving person.
He thought about Kuklacon and how his rebirth and transformation
was coming along. He gave instructions to his workers to regrow
parts of the Scarecrow to change his appearance from looking like
himself to one of his cowboy heroes. For that, they simply
returned Scarecrow's bio-body to the growing tanks before they
made an attempt to connect the whale’s brain to the body. Monty
smiled to himself wondering if Captain Shane would approve his
choice of appearance for the bio-droid. He gave his workers five
DVDs of old Republic “B” Westerns staring one of his favorite
cowboy stars from the forties and fifties, Allan “Rocky” Lane.*
Lane was a larger man than Monty, but a size adjustment was no
problem for his team. They slapped him back into the tank, beefed
him up a bit and rearranged his facial features. What Monty saw
pleased him. The new image of the Scarecrow was sitting in a
specially designed chair for working on bio-droids, and even
though he was wearing a diaper, it was like Rocky Lane stepped off
the silver screen and left his faithful companion ‘Blackjack’
behind.
He was physically larger and a more maturely developed man than
Monty. Monty made certain he had a fine set of male genitalia to
reflect his maturity of which any cowboy would be proud. He
instructed his workers to show Kuklacon the movies from which his
image was created and he noticed the bio-droid absorbed the same
speech patterns and dialect of Lane’s persona. If Monty didn’t
know better, he would swear he was speaking with Rocky Lane. While
the big bio-droid got the cowboy’s vocal inflections down pat –
Monty had to hide a smile – he sounded a lot like ‘Mr. Ed’ the
talking horse. He wondered, at the time, if ‘Rocky’ might not be a
good name for his new bio-droid. While he was talking with
Kuklacon he was mentally measuring the bio-droid’s foot. When he
used his other workshop to polish up his ramrod’s boots he visited
his five leather working buddies. He gave them Kuklacon’s size and
told them to make a pair of buckaroo boots. He knew they would be
ready by morning.
* * * * * * *
Monty’s dreams ~
Monty was tired after his busy day and quickly fell asleep. He
experienced several strange dreams. He was working hard trying to
live up to the standards he set for himself to become the best,
most productive slave for Captain Shane he could. Along with the
good dreams there were several that made no sense to him
whatsoever. Two were particularly outstanding in his mind and left
him wondering about them when he awoke the next morning. The first
began when he found himself working with Maxine and a couple of
other dogs he didn’t recognize bringing some sheep down from the
high pasture on the adjacent ranch Boss Potter recently bought. It
was a hot afternoon, and he was sweating profusely. Off in the
distance he could see a cowboy riding bareback on one of the ranch
horses.
Hoot and Cotton sent one of their trusted cowboy slave crew
leaders through the gate to the ranch to find Monty. They had an
emergency situation. One of their best cow dogs tried to fight off
a mountain lion and lost. He was dying. Monty sent Maxine to tell
Phil Pie where he would be. He knew Maxine and the other dogs
could handle the sheep without him. He sent the cowboy slave back
through the gate. Monty told him he would meet him there. The
cowboy didn’t understand Monty’s gifts and insisted he come with
him through the gate. Monty didn’t have time to explain, winked at
Maxine, and disappeared in front of the man. Maxine told the slave
trustee Monty didn’t need gates, he would find Monty waiting for
him when he got to Hoot and Cotton’s ranch.
Monty reappeared where Hoot, Cotton, and their cowboy slaves were
gathered around the back of an old pickup truck. Laid out on the
tailgate was the bloody body of a large dog. It was an older,
handsome Australian cow dog. The cowboys were startled to see him
suddenly appear among them. They moved aside as he walked to the
wounded animal. He wasted no time in explanations, threw off his
shirt, plunged his hands into the blood of the poor thing, rubbed
some up and down his arms, some across his forehead, and a bit
across his bare chest for his body to record the animal’s genetic
information.
Monty put his bloody hand on the dog’s head to sooth and comfort
him. He could hear it crying in his brain. He told it to trust
him, and he would take away his pain. The dog relaxed, stretched
out, and its breathing seemed to slow like it was dying. It
wasn’t. Monty placed it into a deep, relaxed state where it was
aware of everything but felt no pain. Then he began to work on the
animal. He repaired and healed one section at a time until the
animal was whole and sound again. The men watched in utter
disbelief at what they were witnessing. Hoot and Cotton knew of
Monty’s unusual talents, but never failed to be amazed by him. If
the young man's healing of the animal wasn't impressive enough,
Monty threw off the rest of his clothes and his boots until he was
naked in front of the men. In his conscious mind he marveled at
his total lack of modesty. He was simply doing what he knew he
must.
He instructed the cowboys to stand back away from him. When they
were far enough, they watched as he slowly morphed into one of the
biggest lummox they ever saw. He knelt next to the dog, and his
huge chest came to the height of the tailgate. He gently woke the
sleeping animal and offered him his teat. The dog began to lick
and then suck the rich milk from Monty’s huge lummox breast. He
drank more and more. The men watched as the cow dog’s stomach
ballooned up in size. He drank until he couldn’t drink anymore and
passed out. Monty morphed back into himself. One cowboy in the
back started clapping and the rest picked it up until all were
applauding and stomping their boots on the ground in appreciation
for what Monty did for their friend, their working buddy. Monty
pulled his clothes back on. A cowboy handed him his bandanna he
dipped in warm water for him to clean the blood off him.
“How can we ever thank you, Son?” Hoot put his big hand on his
shoulder. Cotton was so moved he was in tears.
“No, need. You men do the same ever’ damn day, just in different
ways. You came through for me when I needed you. You always do. He
can’t have no food but lummox milk for three days. Get Cable to
loan you an anti-grav Gurney from sickbay. Take him to Cable and
have them run a check on him in case I missed anything. Bring him
to my quarters with his main cowboy buddy. He’ll need someone with
him ‘round the clock, but I ain’t got time to be his nurse. I’ll
put ‘em both up for several days in our big barn next to my
quarters. I'll feed him lummox milk until he can get back on his
feet and can eat solid food. He should be fine in three or four
days. He can’t return to work for couple of weeks, maybe more. He
needs time to gain his strength back. He’ll let you know when he’s
ready. You won’t be able to keep him down for long,” Monty said
and smiled. He learned most of the animal’s personality traits
through his genetic material.
* * * * * * *
In his next dream, one of the cowboy slaves shot and killed a
coyote. It was unclear what prompted Monty to do what he saw
himself do in the dream, but after the cowboys walked away to
leave the carcass to be picked over by scavengers, he went to it,
picked it up, and carried it back to his quarters. He carefully
removed the bullet, repaired the wound, and brought it back to
life. He hid it in a large cage in the barn and fed it until it
was strong enough to be released into the wild. One evening he
transported himself and the coyote to an area far away from the
ranch. He carefully explained to the animal it must never be seen
in the vicinity of the ranch again or it would be shot, but when
it came time to collect wild animals for exit from the planet,
Monty would come for him. He told the animal he must be careful
because Monty couldn’t bring it back to life a second time and
left it to fend for itself. It took several months, the animal had
to cross four states, but the coyote eventually found its way back
to the ranch.
It was so grateful to Monty for giving it back its life, it began
to hang around his quarters. Monty wouldn’t feed it or acknowledge
it and tried to shoo it away any number of times, but it was drawn
to Monty. It just wanted to be near him. He even threatened it by
throwing rocks at it, but it could tell Monty’s heart wasn’t in
it. He never aimed at the animal. He knew Monty would never hurt
him. It just wasn’t in his nature. It formed an unhealthy and
dangerous attachment to Monty. In desperation, Monty made a
decision. He changed his tactic and allowed the animal to approach
him. Soon it felt comfortable enough to let Monty pet him. With
his first touch, Monty used the genetic information from the
wounded cow dog to change the coyote into another cow dog with
minor tweaks to his information to make him a different color and
with different eyes. He allowed the morphed coyote to start living
with him and taught him to live among humans and other dogs. He
quickly learned to adapt and became one of the finest cow dogs on
the ranch. Because of conflicts between Maxine and the cow dog for
Monty’s affections, Monty ultimately gave him to Ramrod Russell to
become his personal dog and protector.
* * * * * * *
Monty was up early the next morning. Other than his strange
dreams, Monty had a good night of restful sleep, but he couldn't
help wonder about the lifelike dreams he had. He quickly took care
of his morning duties, and had a cup of instant coffee as he threw
on his clothes. He was invited to the big house for breakfast.
Master Goodnight probably had something for him to do. He thought
he would surprise his master. He went into his lab and flipped the
inter-dimensional switch to be in the same time dilation as his
workers and their world. They met him and pulled him over to the
new body. A little over five months passed in their dimension
since it was decided another body should be grown for Dexter and
there was no mistaking the form of a smaller Captain Shane was
developing. It appeared to be an adolescent version of the older
man but would have proportionately the same muscle mass. Monty
smiled and mentally complimented his workers. They were happy he
was pleased. Monty thought it would be the perfect intermediate
body for Dexter. He could already imagine Dexter’s personality
inside it. He had to admit it was a better idea for Dexter than to
plunge him into an adult body. They led him to the upstairs lab,
and he was pleasantly surprised to see Kuklacon up and walking
around in the nude. He was no longer wearing a diaper. He was
stunningly handsome. He smiled when he saw Monty.
“Howdy, Monty, good to see ya’ again,” he said in a thick Texas
drawl.
“You been watching them videos again, Scarecrow?” Monty asked.
“Yes, sir, I have. I shore’ 'nuff like Mr. Lane. I understand them
videos weren't real stories, but I like the kind of man Mr. Lane
represents. I’d like to pretend I’m a good man like him,” he
replied
“You don’t have to pretend. You should be able to be a good man
with no problem,” Monty said.
“You told me to think of a name for myself. I think a new body
needs a new name. I want to be known as ‘Rocky,’” he said.
“I don’t think that will be a problem, Rocky,” Monty replied and
smiled at him, “Tell me, Rocky, have you learned to control your
solid waste?” Monty asked.
“Yes, sir, I’m doing much better. They took my diaper off shortly
after your last visit. I only had one accident since that time,
but they took care of it and cleaned me. Ain't had me one since.
They never scold me or punish me for improper behavior. They tell
me they know I’m trying to do my best. I sometimes don’t clean
myself well enough afterward, but I’m getting better. They check
me every time,” Rocky said without embarrassment.
Monty wondered what it might be like to potty train an adult. He
didn’t want to think about it, but knew if he was called on to do
it, he would rise to the occasion. His heart went out to the
dedicated nurses in the world or children taking care of elderly
parents who had to provide that service. It’s those who care
enough to do such work who elevate mankind from mere mortals to
the realm of spiritual beings.
“Would you like to visit my world today, Rocky?” Monty asked and
smiled at the large, naked, handsome bio-droid.
“I would be pleased, Monty. I’ve been shown many videos of your
world, and it appears to be quite beautiful. I’d very much like to
visit it in person. Do you think I’m ready, sir?” he asked.
“Well, you may need more development, but I think I might be able
to take care of you for a day. Later, I can return you to your
caretakers for more education and maturation,” Monty said.
“I think it would be wonderful to visit your world, sir,” Rocky
said with excitement.
The critters gathered to say ‘goodbye’ to Rocky. They knew they
wouldn’t be seeing him for a while. Since they were responsible
for his conception, growth, development, and transferring his
intelligence, Rocky was their baby. He was family to them. It
caused them some trauma to let him go. There were many hugs and a
few tears shed. Monty realized this and promised he would bring
him back. After Monty switched off the dimensional barrier, he and
Rocky stepped out into his quarters. Rocky was stunned by the
beauty of Monty’s home. Monty guesstimated Rocky’s size and asked
big Bart for the loan of an older pair of his Wranglers and an old
denim Western shirt. Monty got a couple of diapers from his
workers before he left the lab. He explained to Rocky they were
for insurance. He told Rocky to lie on his bed, got some baby
powder, and powered his butt and genitals. Monty smiled to himself
as he took great liberties fondling Rocky’s ample penis until it
began to swell. He grinned. “Does that feel good, Rocky?" Monty
asked with a smile.
“Very good, sir, is that a sexual response to having my penis
fondled?" he asked.
“It is. Have you ejaculated yet?” Monty asked like a doctor.
“Yes, sir, a couple of times. It was wonderful, but unfortunately
short lived. As a bladder whale, when we unloaded our sperm into a
female it sometimes took many hours to complete. It would cause us
to break into song and the couple would sing great love songs
together for hours. I had the same feeling when I ejaculate with
this body, but it was over so quickly I didn’t have time to sing.
I don’t know any short songs. I sang a long one afterward,” he
said.
“I often do that myself,” Monty said and chuckled thinking about
the song in his heart after his ramrod fucked him for the first
time, “There will be differences, Rocky,” he added, “You’ll learn
to enjoy the short ones as much as the long ones from your past.
You’ll just have to have more of the short ones to make up for a
long one,” he grinned, knowing he was being silly and wicked.
Big Bart’s Wranglers were about a half size too large for Rocky,
but with the diaper, they fit perfectly. Monty helped him on with
his shirt.
“Why do you cover your bodies, Monty? Are they not beautiful to
look upon?” Rocky asked.
“They are, indeed, beautiful, Rocky. Not all humans feel it
necessary to clothe themselves all the time. You will meet those
who don’t. When you’re here with me, in my quarters, you may be
naked if you prefer. I find you most handsome to look upon, but in
my world there are those who look upon nudity as wrong and have
strict rules because of false modesty. It’s just easier to move
about and get along within my world if you follow the rules."
Monty replied.
“I understand, Monty, but I feel sorrow for your people,” he said
sincerely.
“I never thought about it that way, Rocky, but now you mention it,
so do I,” Monty replied and patted Rocky on his back, “Wait here
for a minute, and I will return with coverings for your feet,"
Monty said.
Rocky was still sitting in the same place on Monty’s bed when he
returned with a brand new, fine looking pair of buckaroo boots. He
helped Rocky on with them and had him walk about. He obviously
transferred memories of the movie cowboy to his walking and
instantly turned into a cowboy. Monty was amazed at his fast
transformation. “How do they feel, Rocky?” Monty asked.
“Fine. Is it so dangerous in your world you must wear such heavy
protective footwear?” Rocky asked.
“It can be, but mostly boots are worn as a tradition among men who
raise cattle or live in rural areas," Monty replied.
“What are cattle raised for, Monty?” he asked.
“I’ll tell you about it later. You don’t need to know about that
right now.” Monty found himself wondering how he would explain
exploiting an innocent, defenseless biological life form for food.
He suddenly felt like a monster.
“Okay,” Rocky replied innocently.
Monty looked at Rocky and thought all he needed was a hat to look
like the perfect buckaroo, but he knew the bio-droid’s head was
larger than his. He would have to take care of that later. He
would have Cable replicate a nice buckaroo hat for Rocky in his
size. One of the greatest strokes of genius his workers came up
with was to make the bio-droids strands of hair a collective net
for absorbing electrical energy from the sun. Only a few minutes a
day would supply Rocky the energy he needed to keep his brain well
fed and happily active for months. His brain was much like the
structure of the Krysallians. Monty led him to the door and they
walked out into the beautiful, warm light of the rising sun. It
was a magic time of morning. Unfortunately, the peace was broken
by Ms. Jenny as she came around the corner of the barn braying at
the top of her voice. Rocky got a look of horror on his face and
started to run for the protection of Monty’s quarters.
“Easy, Rocky, she’s a friend. She just wants her morning carrots,”
Monty said, walked over to a shelf by the door, and got two
carrots from the sack he left there the night before. Jenny
followed him every step of the way. Monty gave her the carrots and
she stopped yelling long enough to enjoy them but called after
them as they crossed the bridge.
“She makes a big sound for such a small creature,” Rocky said.
Monty laughed. “It’s her way of thanking me for her treats, but
also complaining it wasn’t enough to please her. The other cowboy
slaves will be down here soon to feed her along with the other
critters,” Monty said.
“Are you a cowboy slave, Monty?” Rocky asked.
“Yes, I am, Rocky. I’m fortunate enough to be owned by your hero,
Captain Shane Goodnight,” Monty replied like he was proud of his
circumstance.
“You are a lucky man, Monty,” Rocky said.
“I like to think so, Rocky. You’ll be meeting him in a few
minutes,” Monty said and smiled.
“Really? I won’t know how to act. What if I have an accident?”
Rocky said with some anxiety.
“Captain Shane ain’t a complicated man, Rocky. He’s intelligent,
honest, and good-hearted. If you have an accident, no one will
embarrass you; least of all, my master. Knowing the kind of
compassionate man my master is, he would be the first to take you
by the hand and clean you himself. Master Goodnight will be just
as pleased to meet you, I’m sure. Just be yourself. Don’t worry,
if you should have an accident, I promise, I will take care of
you,” Monty reassured him.
They walked through the first valley, over the hill, and started
down into the second valley filled with all kinds of flowers. It
was a breathtaking sight. Rocky stopped at the crest of the hill
and looked out over the sea of color. Tears started running down
his handsome cheeks. Monty could tell he was deeply moved by what
he saw. Monty went to him and took his hand and stood with him for
a moment. “I see it everyday, but I get in such a hurry, I
sometimes forget to be thankful for its beauty,” Monty said
softly.
“I could see it every day for the rest of my life, and never
forget to be grateful for its beauty, Monty. Such songs this sight
inspires. It is the most incredible sight I’ve ever seen with
either set of eyes,” he said quietly. In the distance Monty could
see Maxine being let out the screen door of the big house by Ms.
Biddle. She made a beeline for the fence, scooted beneath it, and
started running full out toward Monty. She was barking for joy and
yelling her excitement at the same time. “Monty! Monty! Monty! Who
is the good looking new cowboy you have with you? Oh, Monty, he’s
like Dexter and Cable, but he’s so big and handsome,” In her usual
enthusiasm she was jumping about and making Rocky a bit nervous.
“Another friend of yours, Monty?” he asked.
“A very special friend, Rocky,” Monty replied. He introduced
Maxine to Rocky. She held her paw up for him. Rocky didn’t know
what to do. “Very gently take her paw with your hand, slowly move
it up and down a couple of times. It’s a ritual greeting,” Monty
explained. Rocky leaned over and did as instructed.
“Good to meet you, Rocky,” Maxine said.
“It’s good to meet you, Maxine,” he replied without prompting from
Monty.
“Good. That’s the proper response, Rocky. See, you’ve already
learned something this morning,” Monty complimented the big
cowboy-biodroid.
Maxine escorted them back to the house. She and Monty chit-chatted
on the way, and she assured him he was in no trouble with her
master. Rocky marveled at how well Maxine and Monty seemed to get
along. They didn’t seem like separate species to Rocky. They acted
like brother and sister; in fact, he heard them call each other
that several times. He decided he liked Maxine’s species. They
reached the screen door to the back porch. Monty knocked and heard
Boss Potter holler for him to come in. He held the door for Maxine
and Rocky. Maxine ran ahead. Monty and the new bio-droid cowboy
followed her. The men were gathered having coffee in the kitchen.
Monty walked in with Rocky towering behind him. Several mouths
dropped open. The men were stunned by the sight of Rocky. He was
an imposing figure of a man and looked like a buckaroo with his
big square jaw and easy smile.
“Gentlemen, I’d like you to meet our new bio-mechanical cowboy who
has decided he wants to be known as ‘Rocky.’ He is the former
‘Scarecrow’ and the former ‘Kuklacon’ of Venus,” Monty said. He
took the time to introduce Rocky to each man, Bobby, and Dexter.
Dexter was unusually reserved, but he politely shook the big
bio-droid’s hand. It was like he was looking at the man he was
meant to be. Monty saw a look in Dexter’s eye he never saw before.
It was a look of hurt and betrayal. Monty didn’t know what to do.
It was a social setting, so he pretended to overlook it. He
introduced Rocky to Ms. Biddle who nodded to him and smiled.
When Monty introduced Rocky to Captain Shane, and Shane took his
hand, the big bio-droid got tears in his eyes. “I’m sorry, sir, my
eyes are leaking. I’m so honored to meet you. You and your
brothers are such revered heroes to my former race. You saved my
father and my grandfather’s lives. Monty told me leaking eyes is a
sign of deep emotions. I guess it’s true. I’m deeply moved to be
in your presence, Captain Shane," Rocky said through his tears.
“Welcome, to Earth – son of Chacheelian and grandson of the great
father Chuchulack – you are most welcome among us,” Shane replied
sincerely. Then he spoke to Monty while still holding Rocky’s
hand, “He’s magnificent, Monty. Who did you fashion him after?”
Shane asked.
“He was a cowboy hero before your time, Son,” Boss Potter said,
“He was a big Republic Western star in the thirties, forties, and
fifties. He was the voice for the talking horse on the TV show
‘Mr. Ed’ in the sixties. He’s Allan ‘Rocky’ Lane.” Potter then
turned and spoke to Monty, “An incredible likeness, Son.
Congratulations, excellent choice,” Potter complimented Monty.
“What did you have planned for him today, Monty?” Shane asked.
“I thought I’d let him tag along with us whatever you had in mind
for me to do, Captain. I’ll be responsible for him. He’s still
getting his sea-legs, but he’s got to start sometime. He’ll make
mistakes, but I’ll be there to help him. I thought you might want
me to take him to Cable, David, and Jonathan and let them check
him out. This evening I’ll have him bunk it in with me in the
bunkhouse, or if you prefer, return him to the lab. I hate to do
that, because with the difference in time, it will be two of our
weeks or more before I can get back to him. I would like for him
to begin adjusting to our time and world as soon as possible,”
Monty said.
“Am I to become Captain Shane’s slave, Monty?” Rocky asked.
“I’m not sure, Rocky, but we can ask Captain Shane anything as
long as we're respectful. He’s a disciplined man, but he’s easy to
relate to,” Monty replied and smiled at him.
“No, you ain’t a slave, Rocky. You weren’t created for that
purpose. You were created to learn to live among us as a freeman
or a free bio-droid. We have hopes of returning some of your
brothers and sisters to Venus to care for your former relatives
and in some cases, ancestors. If you should stay with Monty and
his cowboy slave brothers for a while to learn our ways, it don’t
mean you’re a slave. Don’t worry about your designation for now.
You’ll understand more about these things in our society as you
learn more. Everything will become more clear the longer you live
among us. We are like any race, we have good things about us, and
we have bad things. I like your idea of letting him tag along and
observe, Monty, and by all means, take him by sickbay and
introduce him to his brothers. They will be thrilled to meet him,”
Shane said.
The men sat down to breakfast. Monty wasn’t ready to let Rocky eat
human food yet. He didn’t want to have to explain eating the
scrambled embryos of unborn chickens which came from the same hole
they shit from, a fried slab of a dead pig, or a meat patty made
of ground hog parts. He probably could’ve gotten by with toast,
but butter might be difficult to explain, to say nothing of
drinking the chalky-white colloidal solution which was sucked from
a cow’s udder. He started to get Rocky a bowl of dried slave chow
and perhaps a biscuit, but Ms. Biddle asked if he might like a
small bowl of oatmeal with butter, cinnamon, and honey. Monty
didn’t think it would hurt him, and it would be something new and
interesting for him.
Rocky slowly ate the oatmeal and thought it was the best thing he
ever tasted. Monty asked if he’d like some more, and he eagerly
agreed. Conversation was lively around the table. Bobby was blown
away by Rocky and thought he was the best looking buckaroo he’d
seen in a while. Rocky was so perfect in ever detail he could
easily pass for a normal human in public. The only thing that
might stand out was he was just a little too perfect. He was
stunningly good looking. Shane laughed and complimented Monty on
his choice of cowboy heroes, but for the next male, he wanted him
to try for ruggedly handsome. Monty said he would let Shane pick
the next model.
“Where’s my slave-boy?” Shane bellowed.
“He was sitting on a chair on the front porch a while ago, Captain
Shane,” Essmee Fay replied, “He looked like he wasn’t feel’n well.
It looked to me like he’d been crying. I told him we had enough
help if he wanted to go back to the Morris’ house and wait for
Bobby and Mr. Morris. He left a while ago.”
“He’s hurt, Master. I saw it in his eyes,” Monty said with
remorse, “He questioned me last night. Somehow, he knew about the
Scarecrow. He knew before we came to the ranch. I don’t know how.
I never told him. I guess he figured out Scarecrow was suppose to
be for him. I didn’t say much. I didn’t think it was my place to
discuss it with him. I told him if he was worried or concerned to
talk with you. Since today's Saturday, and he and Bobby don't have
school, I was going to ask if he could go with me today to show
him the Gopher Bay. I’m afraid he thinks I betrayed him to gain
your favor,” Monty said. Shane could tell Monty felt awful.
“I didn’t consider that, Son. You’re probably right, his feelings
are hurt, and he don’t know how to react to Rocky,” Shane agreed.
“Should I go to him, sir?” Monty asked.
“No, you got your work cut out for you today. I got things for you
to do. You ain’t gonna’ have such a hectic day today, but it will
be full. He’s gotta’ learn you’re both my slaves and for the
moment it's necessary for you to lead separate lives. When I
accepted his offer to become my slave, I took on responsibility
for him. He needs his master right now, not his brother. You done
the right thing by telling him to talk with me. I’ll walk down
there after breakfast and take care of it. The Ongs are coming
tomorrow, and I got things for you to do to get ready. I ain’t
told Dexter they’s coming yet. Tomorrow is to be a day of rest,
relaxation, and an introduction for the Ongs to our world and the
Grange. I want them to feel at home among us,” Shane explained.
“I checked on Dexter’s new body this morning, and it’s coming
along great, Captain. They’re almost through with it,” Monty gave
Shane an update.
“I get confused with the time difference. What are we looking at
in time here, Son?” Shane asked.
“Rule of thumb, Captain, one twenty-four hour period of our time
is approximately one month their time. Since we dropped off the
brains yesterday afternoon they had several weeks to beef up and
change the Scarecrow’s appearance, install Kuklacon’s brain and
work with him to create the fine looking bio-droid cowboy you see
before you. All they do is work. When you take into consideration
they don’t take breaks, they never sleep, and they don’t have to
stop to eat or pass waste you can add to that time period in
productivity,” Monty explained.
“So when you said Dexter’s new body would be ready in six months
was it our time or theirs?” Shane asked.
“Theirs, Master. That’s the beauty of working with the Hommynids.
Tasks that would take us months can be done by them in a fraction
of the time. Rocky needed a pair of boots. I gave my workers his
size last night before I went to bed, and they were ready this
morning,” Monty replied.
“So we’re looking at a few more of our days before Dexter’s body
will be ready?”
“Yes, sir. From the looks of him last night, it will only be a
couple more days. Monday at the latest,” Monty confirmed.
The men sitting around the table were stunned by the implication.
They were like Shane, they thought it would take months of waiting
for more bio-droid bodies to be ready.
“How long can Dexter's new body survive without a brain, Son?”
Shane asked.
“Indefinitely. Rocky’s body was in a suspended state for almost
three years. I just couldn’t bring myself to let go of my little
brother. To be honest, I’m glad I didn’t. I don’t mean that to
sound spiteful, it’s just I think you got a better idea about
having Dex grow up in stages. I jes' know in my heart, the body
growing in my lab will be perfect for him. I only hope you and he
will be pleased,” Monty said.
“Will he look like you, Son?” Shane asked.
“Naw, sir. I loaned my workers my Captain Shane action figure.
That's why I asked Mr. Darryl for one,” Monty said and grinned,
“He’s gonna’ look like your son, Captain Shane,” Monty said but
didn’t look Shane in the eye. They heard Ms. Biddle in the kitchen
drop a pot on her work table, let out a Cajun exclamation, then
she broke up in uncontrolled laughter. The men around the table
started laughing. Stoic Cole was laughing. Gil Morris and Bobby
were holding each other. Boss Potter almost choked on his coffee.
Even Rocky laughed at the men. He learned another human response.
Laughter is contagious.
Shane got a big grin on his face. “You were right to do that,
Boy!” he exclaimed and grinned while shaking his finger at Monty,
“I know he’s your little brother and you grew up with him, but
that boy needs a daddy. Ain’t a lot a difference between a daddy
and a good master, and I just happen to know about both,” Shane
said and grinned at Cole, “I think he needs a mite stronger bond
with us as family, and I’m a’ hoping what you done for him and me,
will make him realize how much we want and need him. I ain’t
gonna’ let his pouting rush me into a decision. Today will
determine when I let him have his new body. I don’t think I’m
gonna’ keep it a secret from him no more. I want him to know he’s
working toward a goal. If he wants to be part of my family, more
than just my slave, more than what he is right now, he’s gotta’
earn the right,” Shane said in a determined tone.
“I told him the same thing last night, sir,” Monty agreed.
“Don’t git me wrong, I don’t know how long I can wait myself. I’d
love to have a mini-me running around here,” Shane laughed,
“Certainly would be a good way to hide Dexter from outsiders to
tell ‘em he’s ma’ boy.”
“‘At was my way ah’ think’n, Master,” Monty agreed in heavy cowboy
lingo.
“So the young boy I met earlier was a bio-mechanical like me?”
Rocky asked shyly.
“Yes, but not nearly as advanced as you,” Monty replied.
“And he was suppose to have my body?” Rocky asked.
“That was my original plan, Rocky, but things happened you don’t
know about. I became a slave to Captain Shane and Dexter wanted to
be near me so he gave himself to Captain Shane as his slave to be
a part of his greater family,” Monty said but wasn't sure how that
might translate to Rocky.
“Can I give myself to Captain Shane to be his slave? It’s the
least I can do for what he did for me and my family. Will that
make me a part of your family? Does being a freeman mean I won’t
be a part of your family, sir?” he asked Shane with some
apprehension.
“No, certainly not. You have been born into this family as a free
bio-droid, Rocky. You are a member of my family by right of birth,
just like you were previously a part of your family on Venus.
There’s no difference, only you’re more lucky than most. You have
memories and ties to both families now. You can go back to Venus,
speak and sing with your mother, father, grandfather and the rest
of your family, but here you will belong to us and we belong to
you by being reborn into our family." Shane explained.
“I feel bad for Dexter,” Rocky said.
“I do, too, Rocky,” Monty said, “but if there’s anyone who can
handle my little brother, it’s Captain Shane. He’ll come around.
Dexter and I have too many memories invested in each other to
drift apart,” Monty consoled him.
“How soon can your workers begin another body, Son?” Shane asked.
“As soon as I instruct them to. We’re running low on raw
materials. We may need to order some things, but we have enough
for at least another two smaller bodies. Maxine came up with a
brilliant idea yesterday. We can create a Tesseract within the
skull of any bio-droid and fit a brain of any size to a smaller
body. We won’t need to do that with the smaller brains. Do you
want a boy and a girl the size Dexter is currently for the two
young brains, Captain?" Monty asked.
“That would be perfect, but this time I’d like to have a say in
their appearance,” Shane said.
“Of course, Master, I would appreciate your input,” Monty replied
sincerely.
Breakfast came to an end. Monty offered to help Ms. Biddle since
Dexter left. Captain Shane wanted him to take Rocky to sickbay on
the Bandersnatch and introduce him to Cable, David, and Jonathan.
From there Shane wanted Monty to proceed to his ship and see what
more he could learn about it and from it. Bobby asked if he might
go with Monty since Maxine begged her master to tag along. Monty
said he would be glad to have him, and Gil gave his consent. After
they finished helping Ms. Biddle, the four of them set off through
the flowers to the gate in the barn. Monty, Bobby, and Maxine told
Rocky about the gate on the way. He walked through with no
problem.
* * * * * * *
Shane, Cole, and Gil walked over the hill together. Cole went to
the bunkhouse to give the cowboys their jobs for the day. Shane
asked Gil to go with Cole so he could be alone with Dexter. They
parted and Shane went to the Morris' cottage. He didn’t bother
knocking, he just let himself in. He walked into Bobby’s room.
Dexter was lying on Bobby’s bed with his face to the wall. He
didn’t turn to see who came into the room. He didn’t have to, he
could tell from the sound of Shane’s boots. He memorized the
rhythm of his master’s walk, and he recognized his heartbeat.
Blindfolded, Dexter could pick out any human with whom he was
familiar from only their heartbeat.
Shane lay down beside him and put his arms around him. He pulled
him close and stole a kiss. Shane didn’t say a word, he just lay
there and held the small bio-droid. Soon, Dexter turned into his
master's big arms and shed a few tears. Shane petted him and stole
another kiss, but he didn’t say anything. They lay together for a
good while. “I’m sorry, Master Shane. I let my fuzzy-logic
subroutines overpower my emotional programming. They confuse me
sometimes, and I don't know what to do but withdraw. I know it
ain't a good excuse, because I know my first loyalty is to you,
but I was counting on getting that body for so long. I jes' lost
my perspective for a while. I'm better now,” Dexter said quietly
after getting himself together.
“I think your reaction was understandable, Dex. I might have done
the same damn thing if I was in your position. Why didn’t you come
to me last evening instead of your brother if you were troubled? I
thought we was tight with each other. If you knew about Scarecrow
and you needed an explanation you should’ve come to me. You’re
brother ain’t chore’ master, I am,” Shane said softly.
“I didn’t wanna’ bother you. You’re always so busy. Besides, I
didn’t think you wanted me to know about Scarecrow. Monty never
told me. I learned how to let myself into his labs and how to turn
on the time dilation. I know all his workers on a first name
basis; after all, they created me. They tell me everything. I
figured out a long time ago the Scarecrow was meant for me,”
Dexter replied.
“Okay, you’re right, I am busy most of the time, but I ain’t never
too busy to sit down and have a chat with you if you got something
bothering you. Have you been in the lab since we brought the barn
here?” Shane asked.
“No, sir, I ain’t had time. I ain’t even been invited down there.
Besides, it ain’t my home no more. My home is here with Bobby and
Mr. Morris,” Dexter said quietly.
“Your brother didn’t betray you, Dex. It weren’t his idea to use
the Scarecrow’s body for one of the mature whale brains. It was my
idea. A master don’t need to discuss his decisions with his
slaves. They’s suppose to understand and for better or worse
accept his judgment. In your case, it’s a little different since
you be a volunteer slave, but make no mistake, a volunteer slave
is bound by the same rules and regulations as a regular slave.
There were several reasons I made my decision. The first was, it’s
been a long time since we got them brains and the man responsible
for developing a use for them has done almost nothing to improve
their lot. I had to do something and the Scarecrow was available.
Secondly, but foremost in my decision was, I don’t think you’re
ready for a fully developed human body. Besides, I don’t want you
growing up over night. As a matter of fact, if certain things
hadn’t come to light recently, I was going to leave you like you
are now for a good while longer. Why? Just because I damn well
enjoy you like you are and didn’t wanna’ give you up right away.
Yore' brother had you to love for damn near sixteen years. I jes'
wanted a little longer to love you like you are and to think on
you as my little buddy. Can you understand that, Son?” Shane
asked.
“You think that’s why Monty left me small as long as he did,
Captain Shane?” Dexter asked in return.
“It’s exactly why. He couldn’t bring himself to give you up like
you is. Think about it, Dex. It was a Hell of a lot easier for him
to explain you away as his little brother. How could he explain
his little brother grew to the size of the Scarecrow over night?
It would’ve created a whole new set of problems for him, to say
nothing of having to cope with your adjustment problems. It
would’ve been damn near impossible for him to shift you to the
Scarecrow overnight. It would be too unusual. God knows, around
this here ranch the unusual has become common place,” Shane said.
He got a smile out of Dexter. Shane considered it a good sign.
Shane continued, “Monty wanted to take you with him this morning.
Gil let Bobby go with them and Boss Potter let his little girl go
along. Hell, Monty might not be able to git on-board his ship
without Maxine,” Shane laughed and got another smile out of
Dexter. “Come take a walk with me, ma’ pa, and Mr. Morris. I got
some'um to show you,” Shane said. Shane didn’t wait for Dexter’s
answer. He scooped him up in his huge, muscular arms and carried
him to the front door. He set him down on his feet after they were
on the porch. They walked hand in hand together to the bunkhouse.
“Relax, Men, we’re coming in,” Shane hollered for his slaves not
to come to attention. Most were already gone to their jobs, but
the lead cowboys were still sitting, having a last cup of coffee
with Gil and Cole. One of the cooks offered Shane a cup, and he
accepted. He and Dexter sat down at the large table. “Mr. Morris
I’d like you and ma’ pa to take a walk with us this morning. Won’t
take long, then we can get on with our day. You got a lot on yore’
plate today, Gil?” Shane asked.
“Not a lot. Living and working here, I’ve learned to leave slots
open for the unusual, and I got me a feeling today is one a’ them
days,” Gil said and grinned.
“It just may be, sir,” Shane replied, grinned, and patted him on
his back. The men finished their coffee and took Dexter for a walk
down through the pasture to Monty’s barn and quarters. The horses
in the remuda who weren’t being used for the day by the cowboys
followed them down. Jenny was with them and ran to take her place
with the men. Dexter petted and made over her. She had hopes for
another carrot. They arrived and went inside. Dexter felt like he
was invading his big brother’s privacy. It was a new feeling for
him. Before, he always felt like the shack was his home. He didn’t
feel that way anymore and knew he would only be welcome when he
was invited.
To Dexter's surprise, Shane led the men to Monty’s lab. “Okay, I
know you know how to turn on the time dilation, so do it,” Shane
ordered Dexter. Dexter rubbed his hand behind the post and
instantly there were critters everywhere. They rushed to Dexter
and Shane. Some took Cole and Gil’s hands. Shane could communicate
with them. << Good day to you, Gentlefolk. You already
know me, but these two gentlemen with me are my close
associates, Cole and Gil. Of course you know Dexter. I would
like to show him the new body you are creating for him,
>> Shane said. They bowed to Shane’s eloquence and ability
to communicate.
<< We would be honored, Captain Shane. Kuklacon or Rocky
has told us about you and your heroic accomplishment to save his
people. We are honored to have you in our presence, >>
the main Noldier Hommynid responded, << Since Dexter’s
new body was so much smaller it took less time to mature. We
already have him out of the growing vat, and he’s in our
upstairs lab. Come, sir, we will be pleased to show you the way,
>> he said graciously.
Shane took Dexter’s hand and led him up the stairs. Sitting in the
adjustable chair was an adolescent size exact duplicate of Shane.
It was breathtakingly accurate in every detail. The body was a
little taller than Bobby but considerably more buffed. Cole and
Gil looked at each other and just shook their heads. There was no
need for words. Dexter took one look at the smaller Shane and his
mouth dropped open. “Is he for me, Captain Shane?” Dexter asked.
“He is, Dex,” Shane said quietly, “No more secrets, okay?” Shane
insisted.
“No more secrets, Master,” Dex smiled at him, “May I inspect him?”
Dexter asked.
“Sure, it’s yore’ new body, Son,” Shane replied. He liked calling
Dexter his ‘son.’
Dexter slowly went to the handsome young man and ran his hand over
him. There was no response. He took his large penis in his hand
and smiled to see it engorge with blood. “He has some responses,”
Dexter observed.
“He has a primitive reptilian brain stem which keeps his autonomic
function working and one of those just happens to be his sexual
stimulation,” Shane explained.
“He’s very handsome, Master. He looks like your son. Was this your
idea, sir?” Dexter asked.
“No, before this morning, I had no idea what he would look like. I
left the decision to your brother. He thought you needed a daddy,
and it might be easier to hide your growth spurt if you look like
my son. I agreed with him. He also thought it would give the two
of you a better definition of yourselves as brothers since you
both belong to me. I agreed with him on that part as well. Any
questions?” Shane asked.
“When do I get my new body, Captain Shane, and what will happen to
this body?” Dexter asked.
“If you do your job well and Mr. Morris is satisfied with your
work and dedication, you can have your new body the first of June.
Your old body won't go to waste. We’ll make some modifications to
it so it won’t look like the old you. It will become home for a
young whale brain until we’re satisfied he can progress to an
adolescent body like this one. Eventually, I hope to replace your
body with a more advanced model. Even then, I won’t destroy your
old body. I’ll keep it in a safe place for sentimental reasons or
perhaps emergency purposes,” Shane said. It was the first weekend
of March. That meant Dexter had less than three months to wait. He
was thrilled.
He grabbed Shane and hugged him. “I’ll do the very best job I can
for you, Bobby, and Master Morris, Captain Shane," he pledged.
“I know you will, but there’s one more thing. You have to forgive
your brother and accept Rocky as your new brother. I want you to
go to Monty and tell him you love him and will always be his
little brother no matter how large your master lets you grow,”
Shane said and smiled at him.
“I will, Captain Shane. You want me to go to him today?” Dexter
asked.
“Yes, I do. We’ll leave here and go directly to the gate. They’re
probably still in sickbay. You’re brother invited you to spend the
day with him, and I think you should. He wants to show you his new
ship his parents left for him. I want you, Bobby, and Maxine to
become actively involved with the new bodies for the whale brains,
helping with their adjustments to their new bodies and teaching
them the ways of our world. I'm think'n about holding on to Rocky
as a bodyguard for the four of you,” Shane said.
“Thank you, Master. I feel like Pinocchio and you’re my blue
angel. He’s a lot more advanced than I am. I’ll almost become a
real boy,” Dexter said. Shane picked him up and stole a kiss.
“He’s more advanced than Rocky, Dex. Rocky’s an older model, and
as far as I’m concerned, you are a real boy. You’re my slave-boy,
right?” Shane asked. Dexter nodded his head in agreement. “You
gonna’ call me ‘dad’ when you look like my boy?” Shane asked.
“If you want me to, sir. Don’t see why not. I already think on you
that way,” Dexter admitted, “Does that mean I get to call Ramrod
Jenkins ‘Grampaw’?” he asked and grinned.
“I’m sure he’d jes' love that, Dex!” Shane said with enthusiasm.
Gil Morris laughed. Cole sent Shane a look that was intended to
cut off his oxygen supply. It only made Shane laugh harder. A
wicked thought ran through Shane's mind, with any luck his pa
might turn him across his knee and spank his big cowboy butt.
* * * * * * *
Gil Morris went back to his office to do some work. Shane and Cole
accompanied Dexter to sickbay on the Bandersnatch. Rocky was
completely naked sitting on an examination table when they walked
in. He appeared calm and relaxed. He seemed to relate easily with
Cable, David, and Jonathan because they were nude. He thought it
was quite exciting being around three beautiful naked men who
didn’t seem the least shy about their nudity. He found them
sexually stimulating. He became aroused from their inspection of
him and maintained an erection most of the time he was around
them. Cable, David, and Jonathan were quite flattered. They told
him he could come visit them anytime, and they would see to his
needs. He decided he would like to be naked when he was with Monty
in his quarters. He secretly hoped Monty wouldn’t return him to
the lab with the Hommynids. While he appreciated them, Monty’s
world was so much more to his liking. Dexter ran to Monty and gave
him a hug. He didn’t need to say anything. Monty knew Captain
Shane took him to see his new body. “Glad you could join us,
Little Brother,” Monty said.
“Rocky’s quite handsome, Monty,” Dexter complimented him.
“I thought you might approve. You watched all his movies with me.
Remember how good looking we thought he was?” Monty asked.
“Yeah, they really did a good job on him. He’s perfect,” Dexter
replied.
“You think you’ll like your new body?” Monty asked.
“I couldn’t be more pleased, Monty. Thank you. I should have taken
your advice. I let my fuzzy-logic cloud my reason,” Dexter said
with remorse.
“It’s all right, just as long as I have my little brother back. It
don’t make me no difference what ma’ little brother looks like as
long as he still loves me,” Monty said.
“I hope my new body will be pleasing to you,” Dexter said and
smiled.
“I had reasons of my own for making him look like our master, but
one was selfish. I like the way Captain Shane looks. I think he’s
very handsome,” Monty said quietly to his little brother so the
others couldn’t hear.
“I couldn’t agree more, Big Brother,” Dexter said and added as if
to himself, "I wonder if he'd let me wear a set of rings like
his?"
Shane took advantage of Rocky being nude to inspect him himself.
He was taught as a slave he could have no false modesty, and now,
as a slave owner and master he wasn’t the least shy about
inspecting any man’s body. He felt like, since he had some
responsibility for Rocky’s creation, he had the right to do so.
Rocky didn’t seem to be bothered at all. In fact, he seemed
flattered Captain Shane would show him such attention. He thought
of it as an honor to have his second birth father be concerned
about him. Rocky didn’t have the sense of shame for his new body
which was so prevalent in humans. A child is brainwashed from
birth his or her body is a nasty, shameful thing to be kept
covered at all times.
If original sin began with Adam and Eve eating fruit from the tree
of knowledge, is it any wonder religious loons are trying to
repress the knowledge of science and evolution in schools today?
Growing up in West Texas, kids are taught God loves them; however,
sex is the dirtiest, nastiest thing in the world, but you should
only do it with someone you love. Cole grinned as Shane carefully
inspected Rocky. He wondered if Shane realized how near perfect a
copy Rocky’s penis and balls were to Shane’s. They were stunningly
accurate down to his foreskin, but there was a difference. They
were noticeably larger than Shane’s. Cole grinned and wondered to
himself how long it would be before they were a matched
set.
Kyron alerted the Admiral, Monty brought the new bio-droid to
sickbay. Lazarus appeared with Charlie, Waco, Trey, Lucas, J.R.,
Travis, Little Bear and the coyote cowboys. Sickbay was almost
full to capacity. They wanted a look at their new family member.
Everyone was impressed with him, especially his genitals. Cable
asked Rocky to stand and walk around for them. He looked like a
cowboy even in the nude. Charlie recognized him immediately. So
did Waco, Lucas, and the coyote cowboys. Waco and Lucas introduced
them to the old Republic movies some time ago. They were wowed to
see a copy of one of their favorite cowboy heroes standing before
them in the nude with a strong, solid erection to boot. Rocky was
every little boy's dream come true.
“My God, he looks just like Allan Lane. He was always one of my
favorites,” Charlie said.
Rocky was inspected another time by the Admiral who seemed quite
pleased. “Excellent work, Son,” he complimented Monty, “How soon
can you begin work on the two younger bodies for the younger
brains?" he asked.
“I instructed his workers to begin when we visited a little
earlier this morning, Admiral. They won’t add the final touches
until later, but I had them begin the basics,” Shane said, "If all
goes well, our boy Dexter here will be getting his new body the
first of June. It’s almost finished and is undergoing fine
tuning,” reported Shane.
Everyone congratulated Dexter and wished him well. The coyotes
gave him hugs. Bobby was happy for him.
“And what of the quiet brain, Son? Have they been able to do
anything for it?” Lazarus asked in a concerned voice.
“No, sir, Admiral, not yet, but I’d like your permission to try
something different,” Monty said.
“What’s ‘zat?” Lazarus asked.
“I’d like to expose it to our sun for several days,” Monty
replied.
“Try it! Couldn’t hurt. I can’t tell you how pleased and impressed
I am with your work and that of your lab workers. When we get the
two younger whale brains into bodies, we will take them with Rocky
to Mars. I don’t see how the professor can deny us the rest of
them brains. We will find another job for him. He’s a good man and
won’t be put aside. He’ll be an excellent front man for selecting
brains and processing them,” Lazarus turned to Shane, “What plans
do you have for Rocky, Son?” Lazarus asked.
“None for the present. He was just born to our world today. As I
understand from my slave he may not have certain body functions
down pat yet,” Shane said and grinned.
“No, problem, Son, I have accidents myself from time to time,”
Lazarus smiled and winked at Rocky. Rocky decided he liked the
Admiral.
“I have in mind keeping Rocky as a member of our family, Admiral,"
Shane continued, "he’s sort of like our first born on our ranch.
I’d like him to become a bodyguard for Monty, Dexter, Maxine,
Bobby, and our Coyote Cowboys here.”
“I like that idea. He’s certainly big enough for the job. What
du’ya’ think, Bossman?” Lazarus asked Charlie.
“I ain’t got me no problem with it. Sounds like a good plan to
me,” Charlie replied.
“Ramrod Jenkins and I got us some things to do,” Shane said,
"We're gonna’ leave you good folks and let you go on to the Gopher
Bay. You have until noon to investigate then I want you back to
the ranch. We got things to do to get ready for the Ongs coming
tomorrow. Are you and your posse still planning on coming,
Admiral?” Shane asked.
“Yes, Son, we’ll be there. We’re going to accompany Monty and his
family to his new ship. I promised the Coyotes they could take a
look, but that’s all. We’ll be departing as soon as we take a
small tour. They’ve heard about Monty’s barn and quarters. They’re
dying to see it, and I told them if they were good today they
could join us tomorrow," Lazarus replied.
“Of course, our little brothers are welcome,” Shane said.
“Are these four small men the same heroes who helped save my
family on Venus?” Rocky asked.
“They are, Rocky. We’re proud of them," the Admiral replied.
“To whom do they belong?” Rocky asked.
“Them two next to me are from my loins, Rocky. My mate gave birth
to them, and they matured for another period within a pouch inside
a huge lummox named Strom. The other two belong to one of our
close friends and his ramrod on his ranch. Together they belong to
the Grange. It would be unfair of me to say they belonged to any
one person. They belong to a community of good people who love and
care for them. They now belong to you, as well," Lazarus said.
The big bio-droid was overwhelmed with feelings. As a whale he was
capable of great love and understanding of family, but nothing
like he was feeling at the moment. He wanted to encompass the
small cowboys who stood before him. He raised his arms and opened
them in a gesture he didn’t understand, but they seemed to. The
four coyotes went to him and embraced him in all his naked glory.
They weren’t the least shy with their arms around a mature naked
bio-droid cowboy. On the contrary, they thought it was the most
natural thing in the world to be doing. Didn’t everyone? Rocky
shed more tears and the coyotes comforted him with their hugs and
kisses and wiped his tears away.
“Okay, you guys, enough of the coyote-bio-droid love-fest. Rocky
needs to get dressed. Give him a hand, Gentlemen," the voice of
authority came from their main Coyote Wrangler, Lucas Long.
“Aww, does he have to git dressed?” Jubal whinged.
“Yeah, we like looking at him like he is, all natural like,”
Ranger Jr. agreed.
“I’m sure you do, so do I, but he’s Master Shane’s family member,”
Lucas insisted.
“I don’t give a big rat’s ass if he’s clothed or naked as long as
he’s on the ship or in Monty’s quarters,” Shane allowed, “Cable,
David, and Jonathan are rarely in clothes. It’s up to his keeper
for the moment. What do you think, Son?” Shane asked Monty.
“I think it would be better if he wore clothes, at least for a
while, Master Shane. He ain’t a hundred percent housebroken yet.
He’s worried about being embarrassed. I promised him I’ll be
responsible for him if he has an accident. I’ll see to him and
take care of him. I'll help him and clean him if he has an
accident, but I want him contained,” Monty insisted.
“Sounds reasonable to me. He wears clothes until further notice,”
Shane declared.
“We didn’t know about that,” said Cable the coyote, “I can still
remember Jubal and Bo having to clean and change me and Ranger
when we’s kids. It took us longer than them to learn to git to a
toilet when we got potty-pangs. T’weren’t pretty. It was one of
the more forgettable parts of our youth. I agree with our brother
Monty, for Rocky’s mental health and Monty’s convenience we should
help him dress, Brothers,” he concluded. They took over and did
everything. They had him lie on the exam table, they powered him,
fit his diaper on him, secured it, and helped him with his
clothes. Rocky had a look of pampered pleasure on his face. He was
amazed these young humans were so attentive and caring. He didn’t
yet understand ulterior motives or hidden agendas. He couldn’t
believe the young heroes who worked tirelessly for days to help
his family were standing before him, and he was now a part of
their greater family. He was deeply moved.
Shane and Cole departed and Admiral Long and his men accompanied
Monty to his ship. Maxine did the honors and communicated with the
ship to lower the wall. Monty and Maxine gave them a brief tour of
the parts of the ship they explored so far. There was more to be
discovered, but they didn’t have time the previous day.
That’s why they were back again to do more exploring and to run
more education programs from the ship's library of tutorials.
After an hour Lazarus figured they were taking up enough of
Monty’s time, and he and his men departed.
Monty was left with the core of his new family, Bobby, Dexter,
Maxine, and Rocky. He was growing more attached to each of them
for different reasons and learning to relate with Dexter in a
totally new way. The tour Monty gave the Admiral and his men was
only a small portion of the ship. Much more was yet to be
discovered. Monty gathered with his posse and through discussion
was decided they would explore a different part of the ship each
time they returned. Rocky was thrilled to be included as a part of
the discovery team. He never saw anything like it. He realized how
much he had to learn.
Maxine understood his frustration and took him into her
confidence. “My species wasn’t originally designed for what I’m
doing with my brother Monty. Look at me, Rocky, I don’t have hands
like you. I can’t do the things you can physically. You’re way
ahead of me in that department, and you have a fine brain. You are
capable of learning far more than sailing through the acid-yellow
skies of Venus feasting on silicon dust and singing endless songs.
I suspect whale brains are depositories of far more information
than you allow within your consciousness. Don’t become
overwhelmed. Take knowledge in small chunks and digest it as you
would the food you eat. Some things are learned through
repetition. After so many times of disposing of your waste, it
will become second nature to you. So it will be with many other
things. They will become as natural to you as floating on the
atmospheric currents of Venus," Maxine reassured him.
“You speak from your heart, Maxine. Is your heart larger than your
brain?” Rocky asked innocently.
“I’d like to think so, Rocky, but it ain’t. Monty tells me I have
a good brain, and he encourages me to speak up more often. I ain’t
afraid to use my brain when I’m with him. Monty always listens to
any idea I might have, and he don’t make me feel dumb if I ask
about something I don’t understand. He will be the same with you,
Rocky. Don’t be afraid to ask him about anything you don't
understand. It’s the only way you’ll learn.”
The five of them hooked up to the headband stimulus learning
modules. Monty helped Maxine and Rocky, and Bobby helped Dexter.
Maxine activated the lesson with which they wanted to interact,
and the room was filled with examples and holographic images of
what they were being taught. They didn’t have to sit still to
observe and learn. They could move about the room with their
headbands on and get different perspectives of what they were
seeing. They could converse with each other. The lesson master was
a humanoid of a species unknown to them but pleasant enough in
appearance not be frightening or intimidating. It introduced
itself and ask each participant’s name. It immediately knew Monty
and Bobby were human, Dexter was a bio-mechanical humanoid, Maxine
was a quadruped of the genus Canine who had been genetically
enhanced, but it was stumped by Rocky. It recognized him as an
artificially grown humanoid, but failed to recognize his
intelligence type. When Monty explained, the lesson master seemed
excited.
“This is truly remarkable. When we explored this galaxy several
hundred thousand of your years ago, the bladder whales of Venus
had not yet evolved to the state of intelligence you seemed to be
displaying. Venus still had an atmosphere and the primates were of
four separate species,” he said and flashed four creatures in the
middle of the room that seemed very much alive. One was obviously
the forefathers of Monty’s ‘Rarebits’ and another the forefathers
of the current Venerian underground people.* They looked a lot
like early man on Earth. The other two looked similar to Monty’s
Minniots and Hommynids.
The lesson master explained the latter two ultimately became
extinct. He took great pains to explain to Rocky his necessity to
leave behind his thinking as a bladder whale and begin to fully
embrace his new persona. He was not suggesting Rocky forget his
heritage, but he must strive to think of himself as a butterfly
who metamorphosed into a smaller, more agile creature. It
displayed a caterpillar, a larval form of a member of the order
Lepidoptera in time-lapse sequences and showed Rocky the unfolding
life of its metaphor. It was a new beginning for Rocky, a new
understanding of his place in the universe. He was greatly moved.
Monty carefully watched the time and allowed for travel time
through the gates to arrive back at the ranch in time for lunch.
They carefully closed up the ship and return through the first
gate to sickbay, paid their respects to Cable and his men, passed
through the second gate and walked up through the pasture to the
bunkhouse. Maxine accompanied them. She knew she could sweet talk
a handful of slave chow from the cowboy slave cooks for her lunch.
It was the cowboy’s first meeting with Rocky and they were
impressed. Several of the older cowboys recognized his likeness
immediately. Since most knew about Dexter and Monty’s lab they
figured Rocky was a bio-driod, but they couldn’t help be impressed
with his human quality. Monty thanked Bart for the loan of his
Wranglers and told him he would return them as soon as Master
Morris received another order.
Gil was there to have lunch with the men and said he expected them
by Monday or Tuesday. Monty went further and told Bart he owed him
one, and he could collect it tonight or tomorrow night, whichever
was most convenient for him. (Shane limited Monty’s entertaining
his slave brothers to weekends) The cowboys laughed at big Bart
when he blushed. He told Monty tonight would be just fine with
him. The cowboy slaves were always pleasantly surprised when their
foreman and ramrod joined them for a lunch of slave chow. Shane
told Monty he wanted him to tidy up his place and get ready for
some leather work the following week. Mr. Ong hinted to him they
had several things which needed his attention and Shane told them
to bring them. Monty said he would be glad to take care of their
repairs.
“How ya’ doing, Cowboy?” Shane asked Rocky.
“I think I’m doing okay, sir. I’m enjoying being out of the lab.
I’ve learned a lot today and met some interesting people. I’m glad
to meet these men,” Rocky motioned to the cowboys.
“You got a place for him in your quarters, Son?” Shane asked
Monty.
“Yes, sir, I got an extra room downstairs off my office area. It’s
part of the downstairs lab area, but it has a separate entry, and
it’s sealed off from the lab. We originally built it for Dexter,
but he never used it very much. It’s been closed off for several
years. We put a small bed in there for Dex, and I wired the place
for twelve volts. It’s a cozy little room, but we’ll need a bigger
bed for Rocky. The one in there now is a kid’s bed. There’s a
downstairs restroom right off my office for him to use. I’d like
to keep some privacy for myself in case I need to entertain one of
my lead cowboys. I invited Mr. Swinson down for the evening for
loaning me a pair of his old Wranglers and the shirt Rocky’s
wearing. Mr. Morris is ordering some clothes for Rocky, and if
it’s all right with you, I’ll just replace Bart’s loan with a new
pair for him. Rocky can do with the older pair for a while.”
“Fine with me. Bart looks like he could use a couple of new pair,”
Shane agreed and smiled, “A bed ain’t no problem. We got plenty
around here what ain’t being used. After lunch, Loud, you and
Fuzzy throw one of them bunks in the back of ma’ truck, and Cole
will drive you down to Monty’s quarters. Monty will show you where
he wants it.”
“Yes, sir, Master Goodnight,” Loud replied.
“Monty, I’m thinking you got most of your responsibilities down to
the big barn, and for a while, I don’t want Rocky left alone. He
don’t have to sleep with you, but I jes’ want you to be near if he
needs help. If you think he’s capable of making it outside the
lab, let’s not put him back. Your workers got enough to do with
the three new containers they be work’n on. I know we got rules
about baby-slaves, but I say what goes on around here and what
don’t. Monty, I want you to stay down there in your quarters, but
you’ll still be expected to entertain your slave brothers from
time to time. I don’t wanna’ hear no talk about Master Shane
show’n no favoritism to our new slave. I got my reasons,” Shane
said.
“I think Rocky can make it outside the lab. I don’t think he’s
gonna’ be much problem. I’ll stay near in case he gets confused,
lonely, or needs my help,” Monty assured him.
Monty created a comfortable small room for Rocky, and he seemed
grateful. He confided in Monty he didn’t want to return to the lab
unless he felt it absolutely necessary. He learned to use the
downstairs toilet and became adept at it. He asked Monty to check
him a couple of times. Monty was gracious about it and after
finding Rocky took care of himself well enough he didn’t worry
about him anymore. Sleep was not something that came natural to
ex-whales. They had to learn to put their brains in a neutral
state in order to relax and maintain a healthy balance with their
bodies. Rocky was learning to quiet his brain and let it reach a
state of rest. Even then, it wasn’t like a human might sleep and
dream. Rocky’s was more like reviewing past memories and things
learned from the day before. He would lie in his rest position
with his eyes closed aware of everything around him, but he could
feel his bio-body responding from the day’s exercise and repairing
itself. He was growing stronger and bigger by the day.
* * * * * * *
Bart Swinson spent the evening with Monty and had a good time.
Monty treated him like he was special and kept no secrets from
Bart or Telly. They knew more about him than the other lead
cowboys including Monty's slave daddies Phil and Eli. Bart noticed
the large pair of boots sitting on Monty’s makeshift altar in his
bedroom. “Them’s Ramrod Russell’s boots, ain’t they?” he asked and
grinned real big.
“Yes, sir, they sure are,” Monty replied like a proud kid.
“Is it true the rumors we been hear'n about you being able to
change shape, Monty?" Bart asked.
“It’s true, Mr. Swinson. After I moved here I discovered I have a
talent for mimicking anyone or any animal who’s genetic material I
collect within my body.”
“Like how...?” Bart asked.
“By absorbing anyone’s blood, come, sweat, urine, and probably
saliva from swapping spit,” Monty explained.
“You mean you could change to look like Telly, me, or Ramrod
Russell?” Bart asked.
“Nothing to it,” Monty replied.
“Lemme' see! Do Telly for me,” Bart challenged like a kid. Monty
lay in bed next to him and morphed into an exact duplicate of his
mate. “Son of a bitch! You look jes’ like my mate. That’s fuck'n
amazing. That sends all sorts of perverted ideas through my head,”
Bart said and grinned wickedly.
Monty changed back. “Yeah, it did mine, too, sir. My brain ain’t
stopped yet. I’m still git’n hard-ons when I think about some of
the things I might be able to try. I don’t need me no porn
pictures to jack off, I can change myself into you, Telly, Poppa
Pie, or my Ramrod and stand in front of my mirror and pretend.
Have you ever considered having sex with yourself?” Monty grinned
wickedly at him.
“You know, to be honest, I have thought about it a number of
times,” Bart admitted.
“Now’s yore’ chance, Cowboy,” Monty replied and laughed.
“Let’s do it, Boy,” Bart said and Monty morphed into another Bart
Swinson.
“Hoe-lee shee-it! That’s too damn much!” Bart exclaimed, grabbed
his double, and planted a big kiss on him. Monty kissed him back
with equal verve. They broke off.
“Wait a minute, Hoss!” Monty stopped him, I gotta’ git me some'um
from my store room. Don’t go no-wheres. Be right back,” Monty said
as Bart’s double. He jumped out of bed and ran downstairs. In a
minute he was back carrying a box. Bart moved the boxes from the
Dundee place and recognized it immediately as a box of Monty’s
buckaroo boots. Monty set on the edge of the bed and opened it. He
had a big shit-eating grin on his face. He took one of the boots
out and pulled it on and then the other.
“What are you doing, Son?” Bart asked.
Monty was stomping around in the big boots and grinning. “Damn!
They feel good. I jes’ wanted to see if these pair of boots I made
for you fit good,” Monty replied and grinned real big.
“Them boots is for me? You be kidding me, right?” Bart asked,
grinned, but looked at the boots longingly.
“Naw, sir, I ain't kidding ya' none. I made ‘em for you. Why you
think they fit me so well?” Monty razzed him.
“Don’t you mean fit me so well?” Bart asked.
“You ain’t the one what’s wear’n ‘em, Cowboy,” Monty yanked his
chain.
Bart laughed. “Damn yore' hide, Monty! Don’t do that to an old
cowboy slave brother what loves you,” he complained and grinned.
“They’s yours, Cowboy, but you gotta’ earn ‘em,” Monty gigged him.
“How’s ‘zat?” Bart asked and grinned knowing his double was up to
no good.
“You gotta’ fuck me in ‘em ‘til you make me holler ‘calf rope,’”
Monty said and laughed.
“What if I always wondered how it’ud feel git'n fucked by
ma’self?” Bart asked shyly like a little boy with a secret.
“I got me a big ole belly cinch what would strap me in yore’
saddle for a good long ride, Cowboy. I’ll fuck you ‘til you holler
‘calf rope’ or whistle ‘happy trails,’ Bart's double replied and
grinned wickedly.
“Would I still git them fine look'n boots that a’ way?” Bart
wanted to know.
“You only git one. To git the other one you gotta’ do the same for
me,” Monty replied and roared with laughter. They rolled on
Monty’s bed laughing together.
“You got chore’self a deal, Buckaroo. Cowboy up!” yelled Bart as
his booted double greased up his big cock and slowly sank it deep
within the big man’s ass. Monty memorized Bart’s fucking
techniques and gave him all the strength, goodness, and
consideration he always showed Monty when he was fucking him.
After about an hour of his double huffing and puffing in the
saddle, Bart hollered ‘calf rope.’ “I can’t go on much longer, or
I’m gonna’ shoot my wad. I wanna’ shoot it up my butt, or your
butt – no, our butt – what the fuck, you know what I mean,” he
said and laughed.
“Fine, by me. I get to take your load either way. Tell you what,
Buckaroo, you help me off with these boots and pull ‘em on. The
cowboy what does the ride’n wears the boots. How ‘bout that?”
Monty asked him. Bart grinned.
“Once't I git them boots on, they ain’t coming off ma' feet until
I walk out a’ here with ‘em,” Bart declared. Monty howled with
laughter.
“I can live with that,” Bart's double replied and smiled at him.
Bart thought it was like having sex with your identical twin
brother. He thought it was one of the hottest evenings he ever
spent with anyone. He couldn’t wait to tell Telly he got fucked by
himself and then fucked himself. He was sure Telly would have some
drop dead funny, smart ass comment. He did. He told Bart he could
believe it. He always suspected Bart could never tell whether he
was coming or going. Bart’s double helped him with his boots and
after allowing Monty to pay a little homage to them Bart stood and
stomped around in them like he’d seen his double do.
“Damn, these boots feel mighty fine, Son. I’m a cowboy what
appreciates a fine pair of buckaroo boots. Git in that bed and
reach for the sky with them legs, Hombre, there’s a new sheriff in
town and he’s about to pay for these fine boots. Y'ain’t never
been fucked like you’s gonna’ be tonight,” Bart declared.
“You wouldn’t cheat me none, now, would you, Sheriff?” his double
teased.
“No way! I wear a white hat, Boy. I’m one a’ them good guys. I’m a
straight shooter. I plan to make ma’ payment in full,” Bart
bragged, and he was good to his word. He filled Monty’s ass with
his hot thick ropey cowboy cream and got him off at the same time.
While they were making love in the afterglow of their coupling,
Monty changed back. “Thank’s, Boy, I knew you was different when
you come to this ranch. I just didn’t realize how wonderfully
different you was. Did I earn them boots I be wear’n?" Bart fished
for a compliment.
“I think I owe you some change, sir,” Monty replied and smiled at
him.
“You don’t owe me nothing, my sweet Buckaroo. You know they’s been
some talk around the bunkhouse about Phil not having time to see
to you as yore’ slave daddy. We’s git’n us six new slaves come
next week, and ole Phil’s gonna’ be busier’n a one legged man at a
butt kick’n contest. Me and Telly talked about it and we was
wondering...?”
“Yes! Absolutely! Yes! Yes! Yes! I’d love for you and Mr. Ferguson
to be my slave daddies,” Monty told him as he hugged and kissed
Bart again. “Don't get me wrong, Bart, I love Phil and Eli, but
they’s jes’ a little too much a couple if you know what I mean. I
love taking care of ‘em separately, more Mr. Pie than Mr. Stone,
but together they’s awkward for me. H’it ain’t that a way with you
and Mr. Ferguson. Will being my slave daddies conflict with you
and Telly riding herd on Loud and Fuzzy?”
“Oh, Hell, no, we can handle both. We won’t git to spend that much
time with you no ways. Maybe one night a week. Besides, yore’
three months is gonna’ be behind you ‘afore you know it. Then you
can do pretty much as you please. I got me a feeling you’re gonna’
be seeing a lot more of Jimmy Joe Russell,” Bart shared with
Monty.
“I don't know. I don’t think so, Mr. Swinson. He’s all wrapped up
in Burt, and that’s fine. H'it ain't right for me to covet another
man's partner, so I don't allow myself to think on it much. It's
up to Master Russell, I done told him I’d take what I can git,”
Monty said.
“Trust me, Son, us slaves got us an underground. It ain’t for
conspiring agin’ our masters. It’s jes’ some’um what started years
ago for survival. We know what’s going on at lots of other
ranches. We know things ain’t going well between Ramrod Russell
and Burt. We hear’d Burt blew up when he discovered Jimmy Joe’s
rodeo scar was gone and his balls was noticeably bigger, to say
nothing of them fine new pair of buckaroo boots he brought home
with him. Jimmy Joe Russell ain’t a man to lie. He jes’ refused to
tell Burt anything. He’s a master for Christ sake, he don’t have
to tell his slave nothing. Since Burt’s been working for Admiral
Long, he thinks he’s above us cowboy slaves, and his shit don’t
stink. Take it from me, things ain’t real good over to the Angus
Goodnight spread right now,” Bart said.
“I don’t wanna’ be no home wrecker, Mr. Swinson. I don't want that
on my conscience. ‘At’s why I find it easier to relate with you
and Mr. Ferguson. You men are comfortable with each other and your
sexuality. I ain’t afraid of that sort of thing with you. I ain’t
so sure about Mr. Stone. He goes through the motions, but I know
his heart ain’t in it. He don’t want nobody but his partner. I
ain’t against that sort of thing if both men enjoy it with one
another, but it becomes awkward in situations like slave daddies,”
Monty confided.
“Telly and me been together so long we can read each others minds.
Whoever goes first will die in the others arms. ‘At’s jes’ the way
it is with us. We love each other. We have us some wild old times
in the hay, but what we do outside our relationship or in the
performance of our jobs we can enjoy on a different level. What we
do in the sack with someone else stays in the sack. It don’t
affect the love Telly and me got for one another. I take that
back. You can bet I’m gonna’ tell him about git’n fucked and
fuck’n ma’self,” Bart said and laughed, “Listen to me, Boy! You
ain’t gonna’ be no home wrecker. They’s lots of men what would
like to see Burt Stamper taken down a notch and would love to see
Ramrod Jimmy Joe Russell find a little happiness. Jimmy Joe
Russell is a legend and highly respected cowboy among us cowboy
slaves.
"His slaves will tell you to a man, they’s proud to call him
‘master’ and their ‘ramrod.’ They don’t like the way Burt’s been
treat’n their master neither. We know he ain’t happy with Burt,
but once he makes a commitment, he’s loyal as an old hound dog.
Happiness to a man like Jimmy Joe is much like it is with me and
Telly. He’s learned to be a free spirit and knows when to accept
good when it comes his way. Your offer of being happy with what
you can get from him will probably git you more in the long run
than Burt ever got from him. Burt don’t allow nobody to give to
him. He wants to suck it out of ‘em; literally and figuratively.
You won’t have no problems. If you need help, come to us. We got
big ears, bigger arms, and wide-open hearts for you. It's what a
good slave daddy does best,” Bart said as he stole another kiss,
and slowly withdrew from Monty’s ass. “Shall I stay the night or
walk back to the bunkhouse?” he asked as Monty cleaned him up with
a warm, damp hand towel.
“My invitation was for the night, but if you gotta’ get back to
yore’ mate I’ll understand,” Monty replied.
“Naw, he’s spending the night with Loud. He spent last night with
Fuzzy. It’s his weekend to fuck the kids,” Bart said with a grin.
“Do Loud and Fuzzy have sex with each other?” Monty asked
innocently.
“They didn’t at first, but we made ‘em watch when we fucked either
one of them, or made ‘em suck us off. It was like watching porn
for them. They’d git hard and play with themselves. They swear
they don’t service each other, but they don’t fool us none. We can
hear the bed-springs with them moaning, groaning, and carrying
on. They’s always real quiet the next morning,” Bart
laughed.
“What made you ask if I wanted you to stay the night?” Monty
asked, “If I invite you down, Mr. Ferguson, or both, it’s for the
night,” Monty explained.
“I didn’t know if you wanted me to sleep in yore’ bed with ma’
boots on? I done told you I weren’t take’n ‘em off 'til I walk out
a here, and I meant it,” Bart said. The men shared a laugh.
“I 'on’t give a shit. We’ll jes’ sleep on the rawhide cover. I got
me a blanket what I can throw over us,” Monty went to his closet
and got a big comforter and threw it over Bart. It was luxurious
and warm. He turned out the lights and crawled in next to him.
Bart held Monty in his arms and stole another kiss. “I'm glad
you’re here, Mr. Swinson,” Monty said quietly.
“Damn glad to be here, Son,” he replied.
* * * * * * *
Monty told Rocky not to be concerned about any noises he might
hear from him entertaining his cowboy slave daddy. He told him he
would explain later. He was a bit concerned Rocky might be curious
about sex and ultimately want to experience it for himself. He
didn’t know whether imprinting him with male sex might be
appropriate. He would have to talk with his master about it. He
didn’t ask, but he imagined his workers managed to stimulate Rocky
to climax someway, or maybe he underestimated Rocky’s ability to
explore his new body for himself. Perhaps he discovered, like any
young boy, if he kept stroking it enough he would soon find out it
was good for something besides relieving himself. Maybe he applied
one situation to another; an abstract of his species mating with
his new body and figured it out for himself. Fuck the warm puppy
theory, Monty wondered if happiness might be as simple as an
opposable thumb?
* * * * * * *
Monty and Rocky joined the cowboys for breakfast the next morning.
Bart wore his new boots to the bunkhouse and casually carried his
old boots in his right hand. All the cowboys were gathered and saw
him carrying his old ones to his and Telly’s room. Nothing was
said; at least, not right away. Telly grinned, winked, and nodded
his approval. The men sat down to breakfast. Monty still didn’t
want Rocky eating regular food. He asked the cooks to give him a
small bowl of slave chow and a biscuit. He explained he wasn’t
being mean to Rocky. His biology was a little different than
theirs, and if Master Shane wants him to eat regular food, his
system has to slowly adjust to it by ingesting small amounts at a
time.
They accepted his explanation. It sounded reasonable. The men
accepted Rocky pretty quick. They understood he was a freeman
among them, a somewhat alien one, but they treated him with
respect. Even Loud and Fuzzy were pleasant to him. He didn’t talk
much unless asked a direct question. He seemed to be taking in
information at an accelerated rate and was fascinated to learn
more about the men he was living among. The more he was around the
cowboys the more he picked up and practiced the cowboy lingo.
After a month you couldn't tell the difference between them.
* * * * * * *
The day began and Monty was ready. He spent some time tidying up
his quarters. Captain Shane told him he might want to show his
family where he was living. He told Monty they had no secrets from
the Ongs, and he could tell them anything he wanted them to know.
He especially urged him to tell the two elder males and his older
Ong brothers some of the wonders of the Grange.
Shane invited the major players in the Grange and a few families,
but it was an invitation only affair. They didn’t want it to get
too large. He made it a point to invite some of the more strange
components. The Kryscellians slowly floated from place to place to
visit with everyone. Shane invited several families of
human-lummox mixed matings. The Trong-Fielding family came with
their mixed bag of lummox and human children. So did Strom and
Lyle Chambers and their three male bairns. The smallest, little
Storm, was very active and running around loving everyone. Warren
Steel and Horse came with Jack and Buck Hall. Their little one was
still in Horses’ pouch and amazed everyone when it would come out
to nurse from Horses’ big chest. Of course, Ox came with his
master, Waco, and Waco's mate, Captain Vinceeth. Shane invited
Ping and Pong and Jack and Jill and several of their new family.
The place was alive with bio-diversity. Many of the cowboys never
were exposed to the unusual creatures. As the Grange grew, the
unusual creatures stayed more in the colonies on the ships.
Loud and Fuzzy were stunned most of the day. They complained to
their older brothers Hoot and Cotton. “Why ain’t nobody told us
about all this? What are we living among? Is Master Goodnight an
alien? We hear’d he can do some strange things. And what’s with
Monty, we done hear’d all manner of strange things about him.
Where’d all these huge Bigfoot creatures come from? Are you
friends with them?” they asked.
“Welcome to the world of tomorrow, Brothers. Of course we’re
friends with them, close friends. They’s part of our family. Get
used to it. Why the Hell do you think we went to such trouble to
have you two yahoos become Master Shane’s slaves? It was so’s you
two could grow up with some discipline, learn something, and
become a part of something greater than you ever imagined. You
ain’t got no idea what you’ve fallen into. We’s hoping it might
shock you into straightening up yore’ acts to become good,
responsible citizens of the Grange,” Hoot said.
“But what’s the purpose of all this? Are they here to take over
our world? Are we being invaded?” Fuzzy asked.
“Don’t be stupid. They don’t need our world. They got worlds of
their own. Some live on Venus, some on Mars. Them big, huge men
with Captain Waco, Lucas, and Travis are from another world in
another solar system. They’s helping us when the time comes for
leaving this world. The rapture is coming, Boys, but it ain’t like
what them crazy Jesus freaks preach. You men got a front row seat.
Me and your brother wanted to give you this opportunity, but if’n
you don’t want it, you don’t wanna’ become a part of it, you will
be left behind to throw in your lot with them religious
wack-a-loons,” Cotton said. Loud and Fuzzy didn’t know what to
think. As they became more involved with the alien creatures
during the day, they began to relax and see it as the opportunity
their brothers were trying to explain.
Rocky stayed close to Monty all day while taking in the wonders of
the Grange. Bart loaned him one of his older buckaroo hats and
Rocky looked like the consummate, handsome cowboy hero. Monty was
surprised to see Ramrod Russell arrive with Master Angus and his
wife, but he was alone. Burt wasn’t with him. Monty wanted to run
to him, but he restrained himself. He settled for smiling and
nodding. Monty could almost swear he saw concern in Jimmy Joe’s
eyes when he saw Monty being attentive to his new handsome
bio-droid. Monty could see Jimmy Joe was busy meeting other folks
and speaking with Captain Shane and Cole. He disappeared with them
for a while. Monty and Dexter were busy all day. Monty had his new
posse around him most of the morning along with the Ong kids, the
coyote cowboys, and the elder Ong men. Maxine wanted to be with
them, but her sister Patty came with Jack and Buck Hall to visit.
Maxine spent most of her time entertaining her sister, but they
were around Monty and his crew most of the day.
The day was a great success. Admiral Long gave a short speech
before lunch was served welcoming the Ong family to the Grange. He
wished the Ongs, Monty, and Dexter well. He hoped they would be
become great friends and a greater part of the Grange’s family.
Cable, David, and Jonathan made one of their rare appearances in
their cowboy clothes to administer the Long-shot to anyone who
wanted it. Since learning Admiral Long was over two thousand years
old, it was too much of a temptation for the elder Ongs, Mr. and
Mrs. Ong, and their older sons. They decided they would get the
shot first, and if there was no side effects, they would later
have their wives and children take the shot. Cable agreed it was
reasonable. The Ongs seemed to be really enjoying themselves.
In his speech, the Admiral invited the Ongs to join them in a
celebration trip to Mars port the first weekend in June. If all
goes well, they expected Dexter to have his new body, and it was
to celebrate his transformation from a small child to an
adolescent male bio-droid. They seemed excited by the prospects.
It wasn’t until lunch was served when Jimmy Joe and Monty got a
chance to be near each other. They sat together with the Ongs, but
didn’t get much chance to talk personally. Monty’s first priority
was to his oriental family, and he gave them his full attention.
He could tell Jimmy Joe wanted to talk with him, but he understood
Monty had responsibilities. They did get in a couple of exchanges
after lunch when most of the Ong family drifted away or went to
get dessert.
“How you been, Son?” Jimmy Joe asked quietly.
“Rushed. Busy every minute of the day, from sunup to well past
sundown. One day melds into the next until they become a blur, but
it’s strange, Master, I’m happier than I been in a long time. I
feel more wanted, needed, and comfortable than I ever have in my
life. I know I got it easier than most slaves, but I ain’t afraid
or ashamed of being Captain Shane’s slave, nor am I bothered by
telling anyone my brotherly affection for him and ever' got-damn
critter and person what lives on this ranch. Captain Goodnight
needs me, and I need him, just like we need everyone on this
ranch,” Monty said.
“I been think'n a lot about you, Boy. I can't get chu' out of my
mind. I missed you,” Jimmy Joe cautiously admitted. Monty smiled
but didn’t reply. Jimmy Joe looked a little frustrated, “Did you
miss me, Slave?” he asked guardedly.
“It’s only been a week, Master Russell. ‘Sides, I been way too
busy to think about much of anything. C'ain’t say’s I recall so
much as a single thought about you, sir. Lemme’ think..." Monty
mused to himself, "No, no, I’m almost sure I didn’t miss you a'
tall," he shook his head, "Un-uh, not a bit, sir!” Monty said
firmly and got a wicked grin on his face. Jimmy Joe’s face fell,
then he looked up and saw Monty grinning at him.
Jimmy Joe grinned real big. “I’m gonna’ ask Ramrod Cole if'n I can
borrow his razor strop,” Jimmy Joe said with a growl. Monty
chuckled.
“Of course I missed you!" Monty said emphatically, "It was like my
heart left my body and walked through that damn gate with you
Friday morning, and it took the willpower of ever’ fiber in ma’
body to keep from running after you. I was shaking all over. My
muscles ached for an hour after you left. They still hurt when I
recall it. Ain’t been able to think of nothing else since.
S’wonder I got anything done a’ tall this last week. My mind
drifts off, and I imagine myself lying in your arms, and for hours
you’s jes’ gentle on ma’ mind,” Monty said quietly so no one else
could hear.
“‘At’s better, Slave. ‘At’s what I wanted to hear,” Jimmy Joe
grinned, “Mind if I stay for a while after everyone’s gone? I can
go home through the gate,” he said.
“Of course I won’t mind. I’d like that very much, Master Russell.
‘Sides, them new buckaroo boots you's a’ wear'n need my attention.
Y’ain’t had them damn things off since you left, have you?” Monty
said and grinned.
“You’re right,” he replied and laughed, “I worn ‘em for over a
week now. I sleep in ‘em to make sure nobody sneaks into ma’
closet and makes off with ‘em. I got others, but none fit me like
these do. They jes’ sort a’ wrap theys’selves around my feet and
legs like they’s making love to me. Cain’t tell you the number of
times I dropped my Wranglers and ordered some slave to suck me off
while I’s wear’n ‘em. Them slaves been through a tin of Bag Balm
for their lips. My boss-man made me show ‘em to him. He tried to
buy ‘em off’n me, but I done told him they weren’t for sale at any
price. He jokingly offered me the deed to his ranch, but I told
him I meant what I said,” Jimmy Joe declared and roared with
laughter.
“They wouldn’t a’ fit him no ways,” Monty grinned, “He wears a
size larger than you. ‘Side’s I got a pair for him what’ll fit him
good, but he’s gotta’ pay the same price you done paid me. I want
you to tell him, I don’t want him cheat’n me none neither. I
wanna’ be paid in full,” Monty laughed.
“He’ll fill you up, all right. He’s got more to pay you with,
Slave,” Jimmy Joe replied and looked a little dejected.
“What? Are you kidding? You got plenty to satisfy my deepest itch,
Ramrod. It’s quality what count’s, Master, not quantity. Have you
forgotten my gift to you? If you’re worried about it, I can give
you all you want and more. I can make you the size of a bull
elephant if you like,” Monty said and grinned. Jimmy Joe laughed.
“You’re right, Slave, I guess I jes’ had me a twinge of the
green-eyed monster for a second,” Jimmy Joe lamented.
“Don’t give it an inch. I’m a slave what’s got responsibilities to
my cowboy slave daddies and brothers; jes’ like you got
responsibilities to yore’ slaves. If Master Angus is gonna’ start
taking over your weaning, he can damn-well spend a night plow’n
ma’ lower forty for a fine pair a' handmade boots,” Monty
declared.
“You’re right. I been visited one too many times by that
green-eyed monster lately, and believe me, he ain’t no fun,” Jimmy
Joe allowed. Monty didn’t ask about Burt. He figured if Jimmy Joe
wanted him to know he’d tell him.
The day came to an end. The Ong’s couldn’t thank Shane and Admiral
Long enough. They had a wonderful day. They learned a lot and
there was no doubt in their minds they wanted to belong to the
greater family of which Monty and Dexter became a part. They were
very grateful and looking forward to more wonders. They left and
the rest of the Grange members drifted back to their communities.
Patty paid her respects to her sister and told Maxine she was
happy for her having such an interesting life. Maxine shared with
Patty her desire for her big brother to drink some lummox milk.
Patty promised she would speak with Mr. Hall, Warren, and Horse.
Patty bragged she thought she was somewhat of a connoisseur of
lummox milk and to her way of thinking, Horse’s milk was the
cream-de-la-cream.
Angus said ‘goodbye’ to his ramrod and got ready to drive his wife
back to the ranch. “If you wanna’ stay the night, I’ll cover for
you this evening,” he said to Jimmy Joe with a knowing grin,
“Ain’t much happening over to the ranch no-how. We ain’t going no
place. I know 'd the last couple of days has been rough on you.
Relax and stay the night,” Angus urged him.
“Thanks, Boss, I might be a little late, but I’ll be back,” Jimmy
Joe replied.
“No problem, take yore’ time, Cowboy. If you should change your
mind, and I have no doubt you will, I’ll understand,” Angus patted
Jimmy Joe on the shoulder and grinned real big.
Shane and Cole were planning on showing a new movie on their new
big screen video that evening. They invited Boss Potter, Gil,
Bobby, Maxine, and made a special point of inviting Rocky to join
them. Shane told Rocky, Monty would be entertaining a special
friend for the evening, and he wanted to give him some privacy.
Rocky understood and spent the evening with his new friends.
* * * * * * *
Monty and Jimmy Joe walked down to his quarters through the
meadows. The sun was going down in the West and the evening began
to cool down. They didn’t talk much. Monty was telling him about
Rocky, Dexter’s new body, and his new, growing relationship with
Maxine. Monty told him about exploring his new spaceship, and how
much he’d like to show it to Jimmy Joe if he could get away some
afternoon. Monty never asked about Burt. They got to the bridge
and waiting on the other side for them was the small,
self-appointed keeper of Monty’s hold. Jenny was like a guard dog
without the severe threat of teeth, but her voice alone was enough
to stop the strongest heart at fifty paces. She was like the
single voice of a siren who had been transformed into a comic
parody of an alternate Odyssian universe. When she didn’t get what
she wanted, she decided she was going to enrapture their minds to
do her bidding with her soulful crying. When that didn't work she
sulked away into her space grumbling under her breath like a
retreating storm.
Jimmy Joe stopped and looked over the railing down into the fast
flowing stream under the bridge. Monty stopped and moved closer to
him so their shoulders were touching. Jimmy Joe looked at his
friend, put his arm around him, and pulled him close. They stood
silently watching the sun go down with the soft bubbling sounds of
the creek creating a ground bass like a drone in some minimalist
composition while bobwhites and whippoorwills created a soothing
counter melody; a sound of hope; a promise of better things to
come. “I used to see something like this and give a passing nod to
the moment,” Jimmy Joe said and sighed deeply, “I suppose, if
there’s any solace to be found in aging it slows you down just
enough to let the message get through.”
“What message would that be, Ramrod?” Monty asked quietly.
“Love will find a way,” said the stoic old cowboy.
Jimmy Joe took Monty into his arms and kissed him gently. Monty
melted into his ramrod’s arms. They held the kiss through sixteen
bars of nature’s minimalist vamp until a lonely and very horny
Mockingbird began an insane melismatic cadenza of mellifluous
improvisation as a prelude for the night to come and his aria of
availability for a mate. It was like some crazy stunt a composer,
with more brains than talent might account for, like Hindemith’s
J.S. Bach chorale descant above the thundering climax of Mathis
der Maler. Monty took Jimmy Joe’s rough, calloused hand in his.
“Come, sir, I have new things to share with you,” Monty said
softly.
“What kind of things, Slave?” Jimmy Joe asked quizzically.
“Wonderful things for my handsome ramrod-master, sir,” Monty
replied.
They walked hand in hand through the door to Monty’s lair and
closed it behind them.
End of Chapter 67 ~ Waco’s Lummox
Copyright ~ © ~ 2006 ~ 2017 ~ Waddie Greywolf ~ All Rights
Reserved
Mail to: Waddie Greywolf <waddiebear@yahoo.com>
WC =18,688
03/18/2008
01/30/2017
* http://home.att.net/~bwesterns/cobtk.jpg
*The term “Venerian” and “Venusian” are both correct.