Benjamin and Me

Author: J. Gardham gardham1@yahoo.com

This story is fiction as are the characters, if you think you see yourself in this story that's cool as long as everyone remembers there's nothing in this story that isn't pure imagination.

"Benjamin and Me"

Chapter 22

The ranch was alive with activity early, everyone was excited to have Arnold and his crew moving in. Benjamin and the boys decided to wait breakfast until the guys were settled into their apartment.

Making Arnold and his men feel comfortable and at ease was the main goal of the day. They obviously had been through a lot in the last couple of years and had lost everything they had worked hard for. This would be a new beginning for them without worries or pressure. Thomas would discretely make sure there wasn't anyone pressuring Arnold for payment on old debts.

It looked like a major caravan when they pulled up to the motel, Arnold and Kentucky were outside packing things into their trucks while Mike, Jerry, and Walt were preparing their one remaining piece of heavy equipment from behind the motel. Arnold and Kentucky waved them down as they pulled in.

"What on earth is going on we don't have that much to move".

The guys were jumping out of their trucks and waving as they yelled their good mornings to them.

Thomas said, "we're all pretty excited about you guys coming to live on the ranch with us and everyone wanted to and see what they could do to help".

"To be honest Thomas I'm still a bit nervous about moving in with you, we're just about penniless and I feel guilty moving into your beautiful home in the financial condition I'm in".

"Penniless?" "How can you say you're penniless when it says right here on this paper your worth a quarter of a million dollars?"

"Thomas, what on earth are you talking about, I'm lucky to have a quarter let alone a quarter of a million".

With a big smile on his face Thomas handed the paper to Arnold. Arnold took one look and stumbled backwards as Kentucky reached out and grabbed him.

"Arnold are you okay, what's happened?"

Arnold sat down on the step in front of their motel room and put his face in his hands. Kentucky was beside himself with worry.

"Thomas what's wrong, someone tell me what's going on?"

Arnold handed Kentucky the check for two hundred and fifty thousand dollars that Thomas had given him attached to an agreement to have Arnold's company build the bunkhouse. Kentucky sat down with a thud next to Arnold and put his arm around Arnold's shoulders. He looked up at Thomas smiling but tears filled his eyes.

Jerry came up to ask Thomas if he had anyplace at the ranch he could put their grader, looking at Arnold and Kentucky he asked, "what's gone wrong?"

Arnold looked up at Jerry and said, "nothing gone wrong Jerry", as he got up and walked over to Thomas and hugged him. "Thomas what are you doing giving me this check when we haven't even broke ground yet?"

Looking innocent Thomas said, "well Arnold I know this building with seven apartments is going to run over a million, isn't that enough to get you started, I'll write another check right now if that's what it takes to get the ball rolling".

"Thomas you know damn well it's more than enough, there's no way on earth I'm ever going to be able to repay you for your kindness".

Kentucky put his arms around Arnolds neck and kissed him. "How about we say thank you and then to the very best job we can for Thomas and these wonderful men here".

Benjamin had walked up behind Thomas with his arms around his waist leaning his chin on Thomas's shoulder whispering, "dear Thomas how I do love you" before shouting, "what are we waiting for, Ken, Alan and I have a big breakfast to fix yet, let`s get the lead out".

Dave walked up to Thomas with a devilish look in his eyes and kissed his cheek, Looking at Arnold and Kentucky he said, "you remember Jonathan and Sparkle telling you they were wizards?"

Laughing Kentucky said, "yes but don't worry about it, we didn't take them serious".

With that Dave said, "Sparkle and Jonathan we know you're here, you might as well show yourselves".

Benjamin and Thomas both yelled, "NOT NOW!"

It was too late, with a blink of an eye there stood Jonathan and Sparkle with big smiles on their handsome faces.

Kentucky wet his pants and Arnold just stood there with his mouth hanging open.

Jerry who had been standing there watching said, "wow! That is so cool, so you really are wizards".

Arnold found his voice and said, "Kentucky you might want to go change your pants".

Mike and Walt who had been watching the entire scene said, "yeah you don't want these guys to think we're into water sports do ya Kentucky".

Regaining some of his composure Kentucky said, "why not we are, but surely not in the middle of a parking lot of a motel, I'll be back as soon as I've changed".

Getting back to business Thomas told Jerry there was all kinds of space for their grader we'll show you when you get it there.

Brad and Gavin asked what they could put in their truck to help out, and things got moving again with everything being moved in one trip. As soon as they hit the ranch Benjamin and the boys started a huge breakfast for one heck of a lot of very hungry men.

The grader was put where it wouldn't be in the way and everyone helped carry the guys belongings into their new apartment. Walt and Mike looked around and whistled, "man this is a mansion, this apartment is bigger than a lot of houses we've lived in".

Kentucky and Jerry opened the pantry to put some things in and found it was filled with everything anyone could ever think of. Arnold opened the refrigerator and found the same thing. Jerry said, "for crying out loud how can you not love these guys, they've thought of everything".

Sitting down in one of the beautiful leather chairs Arnold said, "well you can bet they're going to have the best built apartments that have ever been built".

Kentucky and the others agreed, "this is going to the best thing we've ever done".

Just about then Sparkle came in telling them breakfast was ready, "come and get it before I eat it all". Breakfast was fantastic as always with lots of fresh fruit and grains to keep the guys healthy and slim.

Arnold, Kentucky and the other new arrivals were surprised at seeing so many of the guys naked but it was a welcome sight and comforting to know that no one was shy. After breakfast Alan and Ken started to clean up, Walt and Mike started picking up dishes and following them into the kitchen asking where they should put them.

Ken said, "there's three large dishwashers over on the wall next to the large sink, if you don't mind just rinse them off and put them in there". Alan said, "guys you don't have to help us, this is our job, go have a swim with the others".

Mike said, "no we need to help, there's too much to do for the two of you, working together we'll be done twice as fast".

Overhearing the conversation Benjamin said, you know guys they're right there really is too much for just the two of you, thanks for helping guys.

"You're welcome Benjamin, we're glad to do it".

"You know I could use some help in the kitchen too, I'm going to talk to Thomas about that".

Walt said, "Mike here is a wonderful cook Benjamin, he won't speak up for himself but I will, the man's a marvel in the kitchen".

"No kidding, Mike would you mind helping me in the kitchen if we can get Arnold to let you leave your work an hour before lunch and dinner times".

"Actually Benjamin that's what I did for the crew anyway, I'm not much at the building trade, but I do whip up some pretty good meals".

Walt said, "Benjamin he's way too modest, Mike's a magician in the Kitchen".

Benjamin looked at Mike and said, "meet me here at 11:30 and we'll serve the guy's up a great lunch, if that's okay with you".

With a shy smile Mike said, "Benjamin it would be my pleasure, I'll be here at 11:30 sharp".

"Great now let's hit the pool with the other guys". Benjamin, Ken, Alan, Walt, and Mike made it to the pool to see a whole lot of very handsome naked men having a blast, and they stripped and dove in.

Kentucky swam up to Thomas and put his arm around Thomas's waist, "Thomas this is the happiest and most relaxed I've seen Arnold in two years". "I love him so much, you have no idea what you've done for me as well as Arnold". "For me to see him this happy is a dream come true".

"Kentucky this is the mission of everyone on this ranch, to bring people to a place in their lives where they understand that there are others who love them without judgment or criticism, just as they are, for who they are". "The longer you're with us you'll discover there is so much more to life than the physical world we live in".

"Thomas, those of us from Arnold's group all love each other completely and yet we felt we were an isolated part of the gay community". "It's kind of like being gay without being a part the gay world". "None of this probably makes any sense to you, I'm not very good at explaining it".

"Kentucky, it makes perfect sense to me and all of us who live here". "We in the world which includes gay society, but we're not really a part of any of it". "Most people haven't a clue where we're coming from, but the angels do, and they at times interact with us on our level which you'll discover for yourself as time goes on".

"You mean angels actually come here and you speak to them?"

"Yes that's exactly what happens, but I may be giving you more information then you want to know at this point".

"Good Lord no Thomas it's all so interesting and we'll want to become a part of whatever you will let us become a part of".

"Kentucky you are a part of it, you and the others are a part of all of it, it'll take sometime for everything to fall into place but during our chats on the upstairs balcony we'll try to fill you in on past adventures as time goes by".

"I can't wait to hear of your exploits, this is all so exciting, none of us got much sleep last night just thinking about you guys".

Leaning in to kiss Kentucky on his lips Thomas said, "we're just as excited to have you guys join our family Kentucky".

Just then Gordon swam up between Thomas's legs and sucked his cock into his mouth. Kentucky was more than a little surprised by Thomas's kiss and than seeing one of the guys swim up and start sucking Thomas's cock really surprised him. Watching what was taking place had Kentucky rock hard in seconds. Before he realized it Bill was between his legs pulling on his nuts and sucking his cock down his throat.

Thomas seeing the shocked look on Kentucky's face, winked as he said, "when if Rome". "You'll get used to it Kentucky we're all filled with love for each other and sex happens when it happens, just enjoy yourself". "Everyone just wants all of you to feel welcome and know you're among people who love you".

Just then Ken slipped onto Thomas's shoulders from the edge of the pool leaning over he kissed Thomas on the top of his head. Dave wrapped his legs around Kentucky's chest as he sat behind him on the edge of the pool and leaned around kissing Kentucky on the lips.

Dave said, "watch dad guys he's on the high dive".

Winking at Kentucky, Thomas said, "you won't believe how this guy can dive and swim".

Still having a bit of a hard time remaining calm with Bill sucking his cock and tugging on his nuts, Kentucky asked what Sparkle and Jonathan are up to standing behind Darin.

"One never knows Kentucky, but you can bet they have something spectacular planned".

Suddenly Sparkle and Jonathan ran around each side of Darin as they leaped into their cartwheel, Darin dove through their cartwheel doing a triple summersault before Jonathan and Sparkle separated and all three of them hit the water simultaneously barely making a wave.

Bill had come up for air just in time to watch as he turned and leaned against Kentucky's hard cock wiggling his bubble butt back and forth across it.

Everyone clapped and yelled as Darin, Sparkle, and Jonathan came out of the water.

Kentucky looked over and saw the love of his life, Arnold with Alan kissing him with his legs wrapped around Arnold's waist as Sam was sucking him off underwater. The look on Arnold's face was one of total bewilderment that caused Kentucky to burst out laughing.

Looking over at Thomas he said, "I guess I'm not the only guy surprised at the familiarity of everyone here".

Laughing with Kentucky, Thomas said, darn I wish I had a camera, Arnold looks like he's somewhere between terror and paradise.

Walt, Jerry, and Mike seemed to have made themselves comfortable with Brad and Gavin with a lot of mutual sucking, nipple play, rimming, and kissing going on among them.

Arnold managed to work himself free and swam over to Kentucky and Thomas with a rather silly grin on his handsome face. "Well that was shocking and wonderful at the same time".

"Yes, we kind of got that from the shocking and wonderful expression on your face". "Thomas and I only wished we'd had a camera to save it for posterity".

"Thank God you didn't I don't think I could bare the teasing I'd get for the rest of my life". "Thomas, this is something we've never experienced outside of our own small group". The comfort and familiarity all of you have is wonderful, I admit it rattled my cage a bit, but it's still wonderful and I feel like we`re truly welcomed into your family".

Kentucky agreed as he added, "yes the love that radiates from everyone here is all encompassing. It seems to draw those of us unfamiliar with such openness into your circle of unconditional love almost through a spiritual osmosis making it an easy transition as we become an intricate part of this special family".

Smiling Thomas replied, "it's because you all belong here, otherwise it wouldn't have happen as it did".

Ten months later and the Bunkhouse was finished and as a way of thanking Thomas and the others for their kindness Arnold and the guys added some special touches before taking everyone through the finished product.

In each foyer in the marble floors there was a depiction of a different angle imbedded in the center of the floor. That was amazing in itself, but consider the surprise when Thomas and the others stepped into the first apartment foyer and saw the archangel Michael looking up at them.

Thomas, Benjamin and some of the others that could see the angel all said, "Michael"

"Michael?"

"Yes, that's a perfect representation of the archangel Michael".

"Thomas it has to be a coincidence, Walt designed each angel and cut the marble into the shapes of each angel before we inlaid them into the foyer floors". "He sat at the dinning table and drew each angel by hand, it's just what came from his imagination".

"It does seem like all of you recognized the angel immediately, have you actually seen the archangel Michael?"

"Arnold, Michael had not only been here with us but has saved us from harm on several occasions, trust us when we tell you we know what Michael looks like".

"I trust you Thomas it's just so hard to imagine meeting an angel, it's giving me goose bumps just thinking about it".

Gavin said, "lets go see the other angels Walt designed and see if we recognize any of them".

Apartment one, "Michael".

Apartment two, "Raphael".

Apartment three, "Magellan".

Apartment four, "Augustine".

Apartment five, "Daniel".

Apartment six, "Muriel".

Apartment seven, "Jacques".

Thomas, Benjamin and most of the group who have meet the angels had tears in their eyes, the beauty of Walt`s work was exceptional. Walt just stood there dumbfounded wondering how he could have fashioned actual angels without having ever seen any of them.

Bill and Dave came up beside Thomas and Benjamin, "obviously these man have been brought to us Thomas, the angels have already touched them or Walt could not have created these likenesses".

"I agree Bill, it seems when I think I've experienced everything I soon discover how wrong I am and finding these remarkable and beautiful likenesses is certainly a surprise".

Turning to Arnold, Kentucky, Mike, Jerry, and Walt Thomas said, "I have a feeling we're going to have a visit from some of these angels soon, there has to be a reason Walt was given their images as he worked".

"Bill said, "Arnold I've been walking through the apartments and they're unbelievable, everyone of them is finished to perfection".

Everyone toured the bunkhouse and marveled at the workmanship that had been accomplished. They couldn't seem to thank Arnold and his crew enough. Robin suggested a champagne toast for the great job the guys had done and they all headed toward the ranch house and second floor balcony for that champagne toast and some tales of their adventures.

About half way to the house a shimmering door appeared and everyone stopped. Jerry asked if the angels were coming and Benjamin said no this is probably Goldermer, he's a wizard.

Right on cue Goldermer stepped through the door, Thomas through his arms around him and gave him a welcome hug. Smiling Thomas said, "Goldermer, I hope this is a pleasure visit and not another war going on".

"It's always a pleasure to see you all, and no there isn't a war going on....yet, but I do have a problem".

Bill and David stepped up to Goldermer, which usually meant they were aware of something happening where help was needed.

Goldermer went on to say, "you all remember Manilon who came to you asking for your help in fighting the dark wizards".

"Yes of course we remember him".

Looking deeply worried Goldermer explained that Manilon was missing and he feared that somehow dark wizards had managed to capture him.

Thomas asked how that could happen, "I thought they had been destroyed by the Purple ring of fire that emanated from Dave and Bill".

"Yes Thomas those in our hemisphere were destroyed but the dark wizards from the far east were waiting in the wings to do me harm, and they have succeeded beyond their wildest dreams".

Goldermer collapsed on the ground as Jonathan and Sparkle rushed to help him. Thomas picked Goldermer up and carried him into the house laying him gently on the sofa. Turning to Sparkle Thomas said, "he doesn't appear to be physically harmed, do you know what's wrong?"

Jonathan knelt and brushed Goldermer's brow as he said, "Manilon is Golderemer's partner Thomas, they've been lovers for over six-hundred years, in all that time they never let harm come to each other". "The grief Goldermer must be feeling is beyond anything we can imagine, he knows what methods of torture the dark wizards will use to get Manilon to call Goldermer for help". "Goldermer also knows Manilon will die before he'd lure Goldermer into a trap".

Standing close by Thomas, Bill and Dave suggested that it might be time they went on the offensive against the dark wizards rather than always reacting defensively to their murder and mayhem.

All of those who had been in battles with the dark wizards agreed. Thomas asked Jonathan and Sparkle if they could act as their guides in a plan that would set the dark wizards around the world in disarray.

Goldermer had regained his composure and spoke up saying, that the white wizards had never in all their existence gone on the offensive, but had always managed to block the dark wizards plans and send them into retreat.

Speaking with a strong and steady voice Thomas said, "Goldermer it's time we entered the dark wizards strongholds and destroyed their encampments just as they attempted to destroy yours".

Sparkle said, "Thomas we're masters at defense but I'm afraid we've never planned an offensive attack on anyone".

Jeremy, Gordon, Luke, Sam, Arnold, and others immediately said they had lots of experience planning offensive attacks against their enemies and agreed that this might be the perfect time to rattle a few cages.

Sparkle looking at Goldermer said, "we going to rescue Manilon". "Jonathan and I can provide protective shields for everyone here, what we'll need from you is permission to have some of your most powerful wizards to go with us ready to do battle beside Thomas and his men".

For the first time Goldermer appeared to have hope in his eyes, "I'm going with you, I'll leave enough white wizards here to protect our camp, and I'll send four of my best wizards to Berlin to keep guard over Thomas's property".

Taking Sparkle and Jonathan's hands Goldermer went into a trance, within moments he opened his tear filled eyes, "I've located Manilon, I know where he is".

Thomas took Goldermer's hands as he said, "you saw him didn't you?"

"Yes Thomas, he's near death and was almost unrecognizable he's been tortured so horribly".

Pulling Goldermer into a hug, Thomas said, "Goldermer we're depending on your guidance to make this rescue successful and obviously we must move quickly, were you able to send Manilon a message that help was on it`s way?"

"I tried Thomas but I'm not sure he received my message, I didn't see anything in his eyes to let me know if he understood or not".

Dave said, "Goldermer Bill and I followed your mind-link as you sought out Manilon, we were able to touch his spirit and you need to know he looked directly at us as he said, "Tell Goldermer I love him".

With renewed vigor Goldermer opened a door to the dark wizards realm big enough to drive a tank through.......

With a blinding flash of light Augustine and Daniel appeared....."Hold on guys you're not going anywhere without us".

Walt said, "Augustine and Daniel?".

Turning to Walt, the angels said, "great job with your art work Walt, your depiction of us is perfect if not flattering".

Walt stood there with a really silly expression as he mumbled, "there really are angels".

Smiling at Walt, Daniel went I to explain that Muriel had sent angel troops into the dark wizards realm throughout the world, they're in place and will protect you on this mission best they can.

Looking at Goldermer, Daniel added, "Michael has given Manilon strength to hold on until you rescue him Goldermer but we need to move now".

Before anyone knew what was happening they were in the far eastern regions of the dark wizards realm. Goldermer had put shields of invisibility around them and Augustine and given each of them angelic swords to use against the dark wizards.

Looking at Kentucky Arnold asked if he'd wet his pants again.

"Aaaaah, ...well maybe, this is kind of exciting Arnold, and you know what happens when I get excited".

Teasing Arnold said, "Remind me to buy you some diapers when this is over".

Giving Arnold a wink of his own Kentucky said, "kinky".

Laughing, Arnold added, "It's okay babe, before this is over I may wet my own, ......angels, wizards, secret realms, unseen battles, swords that just appeared in our hands, this is more than exciting Kentucky".

Kentucky said, I've never used a sword before, but I guess we'll learn how real fast.

Daniel smiled as he explained, "just use them to remove heads during the battles".

Arnold when a bit pale at hearing that.

"These aren't really for the wizards Kentucky, they're easy to kill, they're for your use in case demons join the battle".

"Demons?".

"Yes, nothing can stop an angelic sword once it's been swung so make sure you know what you're swinging at".

"Daniel, what do you mean nothing can stop an angelic sword?"

"Well let me amend that statement, nothing but another angelic sword that is, it matters not what a demon may use against you, your sword will cut thought it". "Keep in mind the demons know this so they'll come at you two and three at a time, you must move fast and be decisive, don't second thought your decision just go with it". "A second thought can be your last thought".

Using invisibility shields Goldermer send his best fighters throughout the realm. Dave and Bill have pinpointed the location where Manilon is being held and they've managed to keep a mental link open to him so he's aware of what's happening.

Michael has continued sending additional strength to Manilon to keep him conscious.

Thomas and his fighter's have surrounded the building and are ready to charge when Bill signaled for Thomas to wait. "Dave and I will soon disappear from your sight, we'll be safe but don't charge until you from us".

"Disappear?" "Bill what are you and Dave up to and how will I hear from you?"

We're going to teleport ourselves into the room with Manilon, when we're inside we'll telepathically send you the word "now" when you hear it charge in with everything you got.

"Teleport?"

Thomas started to object, but Bill and Dave were gone, he gave the signal for his men to hold. Within seconds Thomas heard "NOW" and he and the guys charged in with swords flying. Dark wizards surrounding the building mounted a fierce counter attack,

Goldermer and his wizards caught them off guard and slaughtered dark wizards with a terrible vengeance with Goldermer in the lead.

The dark wizards forces were caught totally by surprise never having had to defend themselves from a white wizard attack.

Thomas and Goldermer broke though the dark wizard forces and entered the building at the same time.

Thomas was horrified at what they found, Bill and Dave were fighting overwhelming numbers of dark wizards with swords flashing, Daniel was beheading demons like an angel in a whirlwind. They must have been out numbered twenty to one. Jonathan and Sparkle were shielding Manilon as they fought with everything they had to protect him as well as Bill and Dave.

Goldermer leaped into the air with his strongest men and met the dark wizards head on, lighting bolts and fireballs flew in every direction. Arnold, Kentucky and their men were fighting a war like nothing they'd ever seen as they charged in with swords blazing and heads flying.

Augustine joined Daniel who was nearly overwhelmed by demons, adding another angel to the whirlwind sending demon heads flying off like loose cannon balls.

Thomas fought his way to Bill and Dave with Glen, Darin, Robin, and Larry. They managed to push demons and wizards back giving Dave and Bill a chance to join hands as they sent out a crystal clear wave of flaming energy that instantly cleared dark wizards and demons from their vicinity of the building.

Goldermer sent a whirling wind that blew ashes from the building as he descended to hold his beloved Manilon. He couldn't help but weep uncontrollably at how Manilon had suffered.

Magellan appeared and leaned over Manilon blowning the breath of life over him as he laid his hands over his body healing Manilon's injuries.

Brad, Gavin, Jerry, Walt, Mike, with Jeremy, Gordon, Alan, and Ken came backing into the building fighting like madmen, those inside ran to their defense.

Augustine and Daniel flew to the door with flaming swords wiping out dozens of dark Wizards and demons, from what Benjamin could see through the door there were demons charging by the millions.

Dave and Bill motioned for their men to quickly gather in a circle, they needed the strength of every member of their team to create a enough power to send an energy wave strong enough to wipe out the overwhelming advance that was storming the shield Goldermer and his white wizards had put up to protect them.

With the help of the new members each man took the hand of the man beside him as they formed a large circle. Dave and Bill raised their arms with hands still joined as the others followed suit an energy wave built over their heads, something that had never happened before. This wave was royal blue with purple flames flickering which grew in intensity/

Bill and Dave lowered their arms just before yelling, "raise your hands NOW".

The energy wave spun over their heads as they knelt, Bill screamed for Goldermer and his wizards to hit the ground. The white wizards immediately dropped down as the blue wave rotated rapidly and flew faster than the eye could see through the building and out into the cosmos.

Terrible screaming and weeping could be heard before there was nothing but dead silence.

With a flourish of light Michael, Raphael, and Jacque appeared in the center of those gathered in the building.

The angels appeared wide eyed and a bit rattled themselves this time. Smiling Jacque said, "guys you need to watch the strength of those energy waves, you even singed some of our feathers".

Michael who was still standing about twenty feet tall dropped down to the size of those who were watching below. "The strength of your love continues to grow, we can only thank you for what you have done". Michael explained that they had their hands full fighting off a hoard of demons that appeared countless. We were winning the battle but were concerned for the safety of everyone of you who had joined the fight.

Raphael said, "when you men mean business you mean business with a capital B, well done guys".

Turning to Dave and Bill, Michael reach over and took Walt's hand and joined the three men's hands together. "Dave and Bill, Walt is one of you, when you go into battle the three of you must always be within reach of one another, it's vital for the safety of everyone you love".

Bill, Walt, and Dave said they understood.

"Thomas I see you have other new members, we've been waiting for you to locate each other and it appears you did so just at the right time". "It's now time for others from around the world to make contact with you, you must trust each group as you trust each other".

Michael put his arm around Walt's shoulders as he said, "great job on those likenesses Walt, you did us proud".

"Thomas, Augustine and Daniel will remain with you until you are back at your home and they will then stay close by". "They are constantly watching over you so don't hesitate to call on them".

"Goldermer take care of that wizard of yours".

"Good to see you healed and back to health Manilon". "You all must know from the battle we just fought that it's only going to get tougher from here on in". "You all have to look after each other, never doubt your ability to win any battle you fight".

As usual there's no lingering farewells, the angels are gone as quickly as they arrive, with the exception of Augustine and Daniel who remained with Thomas and his group of men. Opening a door between the realms Daniel proceeded the group as Augustine followed them through.

Goldermer and Manilon stood with arms around each other as the waved goodbye.

Stepping into the courtyard of the ranch the first words said came from Jerry, "wow!" "Angels, good wizards, bad wizards, demons, traveling between realms, what a rush".

Thomas, Benjamin and the others cracked up at his comment. "It seems you enjoyed our latest adventure Jerry".

"Enjoyed it, man that was totally amazing, what are going to do next?"

Robin, Glen, Darin, and Larry said they were going for a relaxing horseback ride, while Thomas, Bill, Dave, Luke, Ponso, Sam said they were going for a swim. Jerry, Walt, Gavin, and Brad were going to sit and have a cold beer by the fountain.

Laughing, Arnold suggested Kentucky go change his pants.

"Smartass, I'm just going to take them off and toss them in the laundry and go for a swim, looking of his shoulder at Arnold he said, last one in is a donkey's behind just before he took off running with Arnold chasing".

Gordon, Jeremy, Ken, Alan, and Sparkle, were going to hike up to the gazebo and just lay back and relax.

Benjamin winked at Mike say, "shall we head for the kitchen and see what we can muster up for dinner?"

With a big smile Mike said, "I'm on my way Benjamin you have anything special in mind?"

"Nope, I was hoping you had some ideas".

"Well actually I do".

"I was hoping you'd say that, go for it Mike I can use all the help I can get".

Mean while Jerry stood there alone, "well heck I guess I'll go for a swim with the others, thinking to himself, "how are earth can everyone be so relaxed about what we just went through".

Jonathan popped into view just then saying, "you'll get used to it Jerry, things get pretty wild around here at times, but we all work together and meet whatever challenge we face". "You and the others are now an important part of our family'.

"Can you teach me to do that?"

"Do what Jerry?"

"Disappear and appear like you and Sparkle do".

"Sure, it's not too hard to learn, we were wondering when someone was going to ask".

To Be continued: