The Z-1 Ranch

The Z-1 Ranch P-45 CGW©

Zach had Madison take them over to the Roland's residence so he could break the news that Houston's transformation was complete but it had a small hick-up, that wasn't exactly small but it was a hick-up.

Zack knocked on the Roland residence and Denton opened the door and welcomed Mr. Z inside. Lester was about to take off for work but was asked to stay behind. Lester and Francis took a seat at the table along with her oldest son Denton.

Well he went through his transition last night and the boy is quite remarkable in fact he's no longer a little boy, he is a full-grown man at 6 foot three and 230 pounds, he's all muscle no fat at all. But we had a small problem occur this morning at the residence.

Denton flexed his fist if anybody hurt him, I'm going to kill them.

Nobody was hurt but I'll admit that, they are tired. This morning Madison took the new Dr. over to check up on Houston and his progress. Dr. Allen doesn't know genman and has never been around genman other than a little bit at the symposium. He definitely did not know humans should not be around freshly transitioned Genmen alone because of the pheromones they give out. What doesn't make it any easier on the good doctor is that Houston, prior to his transition had made it very clear that the Dr. was on his target. Dr. Allen went inside the room and the door closed behind him, Houston's roommate Howie another young hybrid and Madison were standing on the front porch when they heard Houston yelp out, by the time they reached the door it was already too late and the two were going at it and it continued for three hours.

Denton slammed his fist down on the table; dammit he wasn't ready for that, he needed to wait and it's the new doctor's fault when I get my hands on him, I'm going to rip him apart limb from limb.

No Denton you will not touch the doctor because he is just as much a victim in this whole matter as your brother. And I can tell you that your brother had already made it abundantly clear that when his time was up and he could conceive a child, his first one would be by the good doctor. And as far as a child is concerned, I wouldn't really worry about it. Houston should tell you this himself but I'm taking it upon myself.

Sometimes when hybrids form because of the different DNA things are forgotten in their genetic makeup. A normal Hybrid or pure blood Genman have three ovaries attached to the uterus to ensure conception takes place very easily, in some cases only two ovaries are attached and they can still conceive about 60% of the time but it's a little more difficult. In Houston's examination it was discovered that he only has one ovary making the likelihood of him conceiving outside of cycle almost impossible and he only has about a 30% chance if he has sex during his peak cycle. The good thing is he lost his virginity, his vent got stretched out some, hell it was stretched a lot by the good doctor and he gets to know what it means to have someone hold him and make love to him, not just have sex.

If the two had not met and done this, Houston would have been a rejected by most all Genmen and Hybrids altogether and on top of that most humans would have felt that they could screw him all day long and all night, all they would've done to him would've been no less than what they would have done to a street corner worker from the city without anyone ever loving him.

I can tell you I met them both this morning, one thoroughly exhausted young man sitting on the couch haphazardly dressed and not groomed anymore and the other one still exhausted in bed and they both were saying it was the most amazing thing in the world, what had happened between them. Houston will be at work Monday at the construction warehouse along with his roommate, the Dr. will be on his job at the clinic, nobody will give either one of them any shit about what happened. I've already punished them both, and they'll have to learn how to live with each other.

Lester looked at Zack; Sir, exactly what can a punishment did you give them.

Oh, their permanently together courtesy of the Z1, the good doctor won't leave us nor will he leave Houston behind for anyone else and neither will Houston because they are a bonded pair.

Denton spoke up; you mean you left them to in the same house together.

No Denton; I didn't just leave them in the same house, I in fact had Madison strip the good doctor but ass naked and put him back in the bed with Houston and before we were out of the room and closed the door, we could hear the bed Springs singing. I don't know if it was the good doctor was who topped Houston or if Houston topped the good doctor but however it goes it's their business keep out of it. Do I make myself plain and clear?

Denton hung his head; yes, perfectly clear I will not involve myself in their personal matters, but he better not hurt my brother or break his heart.

Young man; one thing you need to know about Dr. Caleb Allen, he is a tender and caring person and he would never hurt your brother nor would he ever break his heart. Houston on the other hand still has a lot of growing up to do, this is what he needed, he needed to be grounded.

Francis wiped the tears from his cheeks, my baby is not a little baby anymore he's a full-grown man and when they're available I'm going to have them over for supper and nobody in this family will give them any shit or your heads will bounce off the damn walls do I make that perfectly clear right now. I'm hormonal, I'm pregnant and I'm not putting up with anybody else's bullshit you hear me Denton and that goes double for you Lester.

Both Lester and Denton sounded up that they heard loud and clear, Francis's rules were Francis's laws.

At the end of the conversation Lester verbally made his intentions known that he was going to work and it was all on Denton to keep the peace.

Denton was not happy, he felt that Houston was too young and should've matured longer before taking any kind of lover, so he went outside to sulk the front porch.

Francis spoke; Mr. Zack I don't know what I'm to do with Denton, he helped me raise Houston when he was young, after I had Houston and I wasn't doing very good because I got pregnant too fast and I lost the next child, if it hadn't been for Denton, I would've lost my mind. Now I have Phoenix and a new one on the way. I hope this doesn't put any pressure Houston because of his condition.

Don't worry about it, Francis you'll get the very best prenatal care there is here on the Z1 in fact with Phoenix; his birth was very easy on you with the new chairs. And as far as Denton is concerned let me do a little talking and little mentoring for him, tell Rudy not to worry about it because Denton will be late tonight, in fact he may not be back until morning I need him to witness a few things that he's never seen before and maybe it will open his eyes up.

Zack walked out the front door and closed it behind him, he turned to Denton and told him to go get in the speeder, you're coming with me today end of discussion and it's not even up for debate.

Denton crawled into the back of speeder; Mr. Zack took the passenger front seat. Madison Drive around the Z1 a little bit and I mean all around it, front and back sides and over to the Hawthorne ranch we need to look at a few things. I'm not going to really stop anywhere were just going to observe and then when I tell you we're going to leave the Z1 and take a trip. Zack got on his phone and called Ed and the two discussed a few matters and Ed agreed that it was time for a small trip.

They were coming up to F-section when Zach told Madison to pull over and hand him the binoculars. Zach took a look and found exactly what he was looking for, Denton take these and look over there to your left the light green house and I want you to see something.

Denton picked up the binoculars and took a review of the light green house, there setting on the front porch was a nice-looking man dressed in very relaxing clothes, out of the front door another nice-looking young man walked out with two glasses of ice cold Coolwater, he could tell by the color what it was. The younger of the two took a seat beside the other in the swing pulled his feet up and laid his head upon the Genman's chest, the one that had been setting gently wrapped his arm around the freshly seated one then he took a sip of the Coolwater then leaned over and kissed the younger one.

Denton put the binoculars down and remarked; there's two guys sitting on a swing on the front porch their drinking Coolwater and the older one kissed the younger one, so what about it?

Denton Roland would you pick up those binoculars again and zoom in on those two and look at them very closely especially the younger guy responded Mr. Zack.

Denton looked again and he realized he knew the younger guy, but he couldn't believe who it was. He pulled on the binoculars again to speak to Mr. Zach, is that who I think it is. Houston, that's what he looks like now?

Zack chuckled; transition does a body good doesn't it. Did you notice something between the two of them the tenderness and the caring between them? Do you actually think that Dr. Caleb Allen; the young man who is sitting with his arm wrapped around your younger brother would ever think about hurting him?

Not form what it looks like here, but they're just getting started, things go smoothly but he might turn on him, humans have been known to do that especially if they drink the wild-water, I believe you call it alcohol.

Yes, you're very right Denton that's the reason it's not allowed on the Z1 nor is it allowed any form or fashion in any business in the Township Center that we're building or the one's that we bought. Madison lets go over to the Hawthorne Place and start reviewing some of it, I need to see what's going on and so do you. Madison took off.

Madison pulled up in front of the main warehouse for the Hawthorne ranch. Ed Hawthorne was standing out in front of the warehouse when they pulled up, Zack shook his hand and introduced Denton to him.

Well young man I see that you have a little dilemma within your family. But hey it's not as bad as it could be, my Carter and I had to keep our relationship under wraps for 10 years he could not be found out to be a pure blood because it would have been disastrous for everybody. He's a little high strong so everybody thought he was gay so that was fine with me, gay people have rights Genmen don't and neither do hybrids. What you can get away with nowadays is amazing but they're still aside humanity that can't stand Genman or the Hybrids in your going to get to see that side of Human society in the city firsthand tonight and maybe you'll understand where young Dr. Allen started out and where he is today because to be here he gave up everything in his life including his family.

What do you mean, he gave up his family to be here, he's got wife and kids or something?

No; Caleb's father is a very rich man and high up in the corporate world. The man is evil and ruthless in his business dealings and wanted his son and only child to follow in his footsteps. But Caleb had a different calling in life there was a gentle side of him that struggled against the brutish side. He wanted to become a doctor so he could help those less fortunate and his father hated it but he did one thing decent, he did allow his son to go to med school and go to get his licensing. Much to his dismay his son excelled in the medical field and is well respected for what he's done especially in the cardiac rehab section. When he found out his son had taken an appointment with Hawthorne Memorial's outreach program serving the smaller communities and would soon take over and run an outreach clinic and a program servicing small ranches and farms. Well that just chapped the old man's ass and he blew his top, he gave him an ultimatum either his career or his family but he could not have them both, you see where he is at now and it looks like his found his new family on his own.

You mean he gave up everything for the Z1 and a bunch Genmen that he didn't even know, wow that takes a lot of nerve and a whole Lot of character. Maybe Houston does have good taste when it comes to the love department. If you don't mind can I ask where were headed to today.

You can ask Denton; which I'm not going tell you but I will tell you this much get ready to have your eyes opened and realize exactly how well you have it here.

Ed picked up his communicator and asked if they were ready for departure yet, a voice on the other end responded 10 minutes Sir and we will be loaded and ready. Okay just let us know. Ed put the communicator back in his pocket.

Well let's go get us a small snack and a couple of drinks and were off when they beep me.

Denton was a little apprehensive about going into the main house and the Hawthorne ranch, it was so elegant and huge.

Carter met the guys at the door and kissed his husband, you four have a safe trip and Ed don't make me have to come bail you out of jail again. Last time he ended up in the society section, his arrest and everything I almost couldn't live that down.

Carter quit complaining you know you love me and I was right because I brought down that political figure for his corruption, even though it cost me a night in jail, it cost him his career.

Carter showed the young men where the kitchen was and that their lunches were all packed along with thermoses of Coolwater. Madison and Denton thanked him for everything. Now boys do not let these two old geezers get you into trouble because I've been around long enough that I put up with his mess but I doubt that your spouses will put up with it very much at all.

Both Madison and Denton just smiled knowing he was perfectly correct.

Ed's communicator went off signaling that they were packed up and ready to go, he kissed Carter and told him he would see him and the boys later on not to worry.

The four of them made it outside and headed to the landing pad. Setting on the landing pad was the Hawthorne's personal air shuttle. The two young men were amazed they were going to ride in the air shuttle and it was a fancy one at that.

Now boys make sure and put on your seatbelts before we take off, I don't want anyone rolling around on the floor. They buckled themselves in and felt funny as the air shuttle slowly lifted off the pad when it was clear the building it bank hard to the right and took off like a rocket.

Both boys were wide-eyed, Ed and Zack just laughed. Ed that's the cheapest thrill I've ever had, damn I love it.

Ed told the pilot to take it up to the higher levels so the boys could see everything. Like kids in a candy store Denton and Madison were amazed what the planet looked like from up here. Ed was careful to show them the perimeter of the Z1 and the Hawthorne property then in the distance he showed them the new sections that were coming online next to the Township. Far in the distance you can see a hazy cloud covering something.

Ed pointed out to the boys, you see that nasty looking thing up there that grayish black cloud will that's the main city where we're headed, I have a few things to do and a few things to drop off to some good people that have fallen on hard times. Everyone settled in for the smooth ride. Before they knew it, the pilot said we are approaching our destination Sir. Shall I set it down on the court. As long as there's not any kids playing sure put it down.

When the pilot ascertained that all was clear he began his dissent and gently set the air shuttle down.

Now boys, excuse me young men, the cargo area back here is full of supplies that we're going to need some help unloading to these kind people here at the center. After we get through were gonna do a walk-through and I want to show you how fortunate you really are living where you live.

Ed and Zack for the first two off followed by Denton and Madison. Denton was taking it all in when a group of children rushed up and hugged Ed. He ate it up, he was making his way slowly toward someone that they felt was in charge. The lady hugged Ed's neck and welcomed him to the shelter.

One of the young girls walked up to Denton and asked him, are you one of those things that's not human. Denton took a knee; my name is Denton and I am a hybrid my father is human like you but I have dad who is a pure blood genman so that makes me a hybrid genman. The little girl surprised it by hugging his neck and kissed him on his cheek, welcome to the center, we don't have much but that's okay at least we have a warm place to sleep in a roof over our head. Soon the kids were all over Denton and then they converged on Madison.

Zack realized that this was just what the boys needed, someone less fortunate than them appreciating them for just being there. As they went in for a tour, the shelter's director made sure that everyone knew what they were all about and how they try to help the less fortunate.

Denton inquired with the director about the children's parents where were they at?

Sir; that's a very good question, a few of them have jobs in the daytime so they can try to make some money before they're put out of the shelter due to the time limitations for stay. Others are here for a week maybe less and they leave one morning and never come back. We do our best to keep the children together but when the government workers come through if we can't match the children up with parents, they round them up and we never see them again.

Madison replied; you mean the government comes here and removes children from your care because the parent happens not to be here at the time or is because they cannot get a hold of them.

Both actually, so if there are two parents one stays here while the other one works and tries to make a little income, we don't report it to the authorities because if we do, they consider them no longer indigent and we must kick them out of the shelter. It's really a sad situation parents trying to claw their way out of poverty have their children removed from the custody and they'll never see them again they'll be put into children's home raised to a certain age then released on the streets to any scum that'll try to pick them up.

Zach inquired; how many parentless children do you have right now under your care?

If I told you it was 75 would you believe it, we have single people here pose as the parents just to keep them hid out from the government workers. But is just a matter of time before were busted and they take all of these little children away.

Ed and Zack looked at each other, something had to be done.

Madam director if I told you that I had a place where these children could be educated and raised with full medical treatment available should they become ill and we had dormitory statuses to hold almost 2500 how would that help?

Oh, I tell you that would help tremendously, there's a network of underground shelters that are begging for someone to help these children. Now we also have families here that are just holding on by a thread. Some are getting ready to be put out on the streets with their children and we can't let them return to the shelters legally for two weeks or we lose our funding.

Madison was looking around when he noticed a gentleman sitting there with two small children, he walked over and introduced himself and took a seat as he began to asked the gentleman some simple questions.

Arlen Williams felt at ease with the young man and began to open up, he his wife and three children were at the shelter because she was laid off from her job in the business was closed, they lost their apartment because they could make the rent only with one income. They tried to sell items that nobody would buy their goods but as soon as they were set on the curb the people descended upon their property like vultures. They had three children a 15-year-old Kirby, a seven-year-old Angelica and a four-year-old by the name of Thomas. His wife Sheila was working as a server at a local diner trying to make tips just enough to get them by and she always brought leftovers home to the shelter to help out. He was worried about his oldest Kirby who was always so angry now, he felt betrayed by his parents because they had nothing left. The little ones were doing okay but once they run out of time, he knew that they couldn't stay on the streets with the rainy season coming up and they would have to make a major decision regarding their children.

Madison looked at them and felt for them, he had always had a home even if it was a space station and he didn't know what he would do if he had to choose between his family or a place to stay. Sir what are your skills in life for his job experience?

Me I was an accountant, you know a number cruncher for one of the big firms and low man on the totem poles are the first ones to leave and I had been there for 14 years, Sheila had been at an exclusive restaurant called the Greens for 16 years, the last 10 was head maître d' when it was closed due to partnership problems. I've applied everywhere as well as she, there's just no jobs.

Madison told him to keep a chin up because things would soon turn loose.

Arlen thanked the young man for listening to his story and went back to playing with the children.

Madison headed directly to Mr. Z, he filled him in on all of the information on the family. And how they could use some help in certain sections at the Z1 by experienced people. Donnie could definitely use the help in the restaurant with someone with her experience as well as Ty, another number cruncher with that many years' experience he would have to be an asset and if Ty didn't want him Jake definitely could use the help. His payroll is always screwed up no matter how many buttons they pushed there's always a shortage or overage on someone's check.

Take me to him, I want to meet him and if I like what I see I'm going to offer him the jobs.

Madison took Zack to the family section where Arlen was sitting with his two youngest, Mr. Williams I would like to introduce you to my boss Mr. Zachary Spinelli the owner of the Z1 ranch.

Arlen set Thomas down wiped his hand and stuck it out for Zach to shake. Madison slowly backed away and let the two discuss their future.

A young teenager approached Madison and inquired who was that speaking to his father?

Madison turned around and put his hand out and replied; you must be Kirby my name is Madison I'm very pleased to meet you, a confused Kirby shook the young man's hand. As far as the gentleman that's talking to your father his name is Mr. Zachary Spinelli.

Kirby inquisitively looked at Madison up and down, and who is Zachary Spinelli and what's he doing here. We came in to deliver supplies to help the shelter make ends meet, Mr. Ed Hawthorne and Mr. Spinelli are business partners the other young man Denton and myself live on Mr. Spinelli's ranch.

It dawned on Kirby who he was talking to; holy shit your real-life Genmen.

Madison smiled no not really my father is human and my dad is half Goran and human. And what I mean by human, I mean old world human I was raised on a space station on the other side of the galaxy.

Kirby's mouth fell open, you mean you were born in space?

Precisely and until we landed here, I had never walked on soil it was always another metal hallway connecting different sections of the orbiter together.

Wow that must have been exciting to grow up on orbiter space station. What's it really like in space.

Well I can tell you one thing in space no one can hear you scream. But it was okay until we were attacked by a battle cruiser. There were a lot of deaths and a whole lot of injuries, my uncle was kidnapped when he was just a baby and they took off. My Grandfather was out on a mission when it occurred. He returned on the freighter that he transported goods on and he picked up the pieces of our life. We were put in stasis pods and put into a control container where we resided for the next 107 years until he arrived here and we were all revived. It's taken a lot to get used to living on the Terran environment but it has its advantages at least you about to float away when the gravity generator goes out.

As Madison was talking to Kirby about his life a whole group of children and adults had gathered to listen to the story.

Kirby looked at him, you're just pulling my leg aren't you. You never lived in outer space now did you?

Mr. Zack walked up behind Madison and looked young Kirby directly into his eyes, no he is not pulling your leg, young Madison was born in outer space and he lived on a space station orbiting a planet until it was attacked, everything he told you was the truth because if there's one thing that Madison is not and that would be a liar.

Arlen looked at his oldest son was slightly disappointed in him, but he really couldn't blame the boy because he had also been through a lot.

Sheila Williams walked up and was immediately suspicious and wish to know what was going on and for answer she looked at her husband.

Arlen introduced his wife to Mr. Zach and Madison, and told her exactly who they were and where they were from.

Sheila almost passed out when she saw Ed Hawthorne at the shelter, she knew him by site from the many times that she checked him and his partner in at the restaurant before it closed.

Ed smiled and walked directly to her, wrapped his arms around her and patted her on the back, and exactly how are you doing Sheila. I've always wondered what happened after the Greens closed down.

It's been rough Mr. Hawthorne; I pick up work where I can Arlen lost his job and we lost everything we had but the kids. But we're barely hanging on, in about a week we will be asked to leave here for two weeks and with the rainy season in the cold weather coming in the kids can't be out in the streets.

That my dear lady is one thing that you do not have to worry about, you have been hired sight unseen but with a very good recommendation at a new exclusive five-star restaurant as head maître d', you will live on a ranch that is connected to the Museum library and educational center if you accept and your husband can put his great skills to work for a gentleman named Jake Traylor from Traylor Construction Enterprises. But you will have to get used to living around people that may be a little bit different from you.

Ed motioned for Denton and Madison to meet the lady, both young men introduce themselves and they explained who and what they were. Sheila was blown away at the respectful way that these young men acted toward her and her children.

Zack introduced himself to Sheila is the owner of the Z1 were her family would be residing should they choose to accept the jobs. She couldn't say yes fast enough, no disrespect Sir but I would live in a den with rackknars before I lose my children. And if these two young men here are any kind of example of the people that live there, I know my oldest Kirby will be in good hands.

Well I can tell you that we have some teachers there that have removed themselves from human society and live on the Z1 now, we have a museum curator who used to be over the Metropolitan here in the city she and her husband and their children live there also so you'll never get lonely plus there's plenty of stay-at-home dad's that raise their children while the father's work in the Genmen and hybrid community. Your family will be living right along with the rest of in fact there's a fully renovated home that I'm thinking about that's directly across from Homer and Clayton Romano and their children Roman and Evan the course there's mama Celeste she brought two of her troubled sons out of little Sicily to get jobs and live on the Z1, she sent one first after she applied for the job for him in the construction department and then she tricked the other son there and he stayed. In fact, I've got a great grandson that's due anytime thanks to the first son.

Sheila looked at him, strangely, you have a Genman mate? To which Zach responded yep sure do and my next oldest son is going to be joined soon with Madison's older brother but Mason has to make sure everything is perfect and the house is complete before he will say I do and as usual Tim is running a little slow.

Sheila looked at Ed and asked how Carter was doing?

Well he's doing just fine and the babies are keeping him very busy these days we have a live-in nanny and they help with the twins and their brother but other than that, I have realized is perfect, there's nothing like three hybrid Genmen children scuffling on the floor knocking everything over and Carter throwing pillow at them and knocking them off the table.

Sheila, looked a little scared; sounds like you've got three little fireballs on your hands and Carter could use even more help.

We do just fine they are just typical little hybrids letting their genman genetics show. But when Carter's had enough of it, he raises his voice and they scatter and head to their room.

Somehow, I can definitely see that happening, I always admired that about Carter he walked in the room and he commanded it, not meaning to sound condescending but I always thought that you two were a gay couple.

For 10 years we had to play that part in public because of acceptance but after we bought the land next to the Z1 and Zack, the boys came along Carter could care less who knows exactly who he is and what he. Oh, he still commands the room when he walks into it even more so now.

Before they were getting ready to leave Ed checked back in with the director of the shelter and make sure she had all the proper paperwork and documentation for the transfer of the children, there were exactly 76 parentless children at the shelter. They heard the air horn blast out; the Z1 transports had arrived, two of them. The door opened and off stepped Carter Hawthorne he walked directly over to Sheila and hugged her neck, I expect good things, because your life is about to change.

Arlen and Kirby helped Madison and Denton load up the transports with the children's meager belongings. All of the kids were more than excited to get to go on a trip especially on these nice transports that had arrived for them. The director showed restraint but hugged and kissed every child, said goodbye to Arlen and his wife and the two younger kids were getting on the transports, when Denton inquired if Kirby would be allowed to go back the air shuttle. They would get there in about 45 minutes compared to the two-hour trip that the transports would take, Kirby pleaded with his parents.

I promise I won't be any problem not at all, this is a chance of a lifetime for me it's not like people like us ever get to do anything much less fly across the countryside, you know that's for the only privileged. Please mom and dad would you let me do this.

Sheila looked at her oldest, if it's all right with Mr. Hawthorne that you go with them then I'm okay with it but you stay with Denton and mind him because he's in charge of you, I trust him with your safety.

Denton assured Sheila that young Kirby was almost Madison's younger brother Ronnie's age and he would be just fine because they were always used to having children around the house, little brothers and then there's Rudy and my triplets they are only about six human years old but they're still quite a handful. I hand raised my little brother Houston, who just transitioned so I'm always the big brother.

Sheila shocked by Denton and she walked up to him and wrapped her arms around him and thanked him for thinking of Kirby, the whole shelter thing had been very hard on the teenager.

Kirby stood at the stairs to the air shuttle and waved bye to his parents as the transports took off headed to the Z1. He turned to Ed and asked for permission to come aboard.

Ed just grinned get your butt in here boy, were going to see the countryside from way up high so get ready.

The pilot warmed the engines and then the air shuttle gradually lifted off from the shelters ball court. No sooner than the pilot had cleared all the buildings and got into position he asked everyone if they were ready for the ride of their lives. Kirby was a little apprehensive but give it a thumbs up. Ed nodded his head and the pilot went full throttle send in the air shuttle screaming out of the city. He rose to 35,000' and told everyone they could unbuckle if they would like to and look around because the skies were the limit. There were three young men on the shuttle that were amazed at what they saw.

Hey Zack why don't we take these boys over to the mountain ranges and show them what this planet really looks like on the backside, Kirby's jaw fell open at Ed's suggestion.

Really the far-off mountains and maybe the Painted Hills.

Kirby my young man for you it's the painted Hills, get ready to be amazed and here you'll want to hang onto this digital recorder so that you can document your trip for your family. Ed pitched a very expensive piece of electronic equipment to the young man. All you have to do is hit the red button and look into the viewfinder and you're filming.

Kirby was ecstatic with the opportunity that he had been given today, he had two new friends even though they were older than him not by whole lot but still they were friends.

Madison was taking in the sights along with Denton who was like a kid in a candy store, in lots of ways Kirby and him have a lot in common even though Denton had children by his mate he was still growing mentally.

The boys were all over the back of the observation deck when the pilot put over the intercom system, coming up on your left are the painted Hills called this because of their bright coloration in the layers of sediment and rock. This is the most rural area on our planet and totally unsettled.

Ed and Zack set back and discussed business as the pilot took the boys on a tour of the world that they lived on they would see things that most people never got to see their entire lives.

Zack looked back at Kirby, young man if the footage is good enough, we can always take it over to the editing department at the Museum and it can be added to the exhibit there.

Kirby thought about it and decided to take very good footage so that he could have something to pass on to others that were less fortunate and didn't get this kind of treatment. He thanked Mr. Zack and told him that he would do his utmost to be sure that the video footage was best quality.

Ed gave Zack thumbs up and thanked him for his mention of the video.

As they come through the pass headed to the community Ed suggested that they might sit down in the motor lodge's parking lot so that they could all partake a rich ice-cold chocolate malt at Constantine's if that was okay with all the passengers. There was not a single complaint from anyone even Zack said it would be fitting before heading to the Z1.

The pilot landed the air shuttle with no problem and everyone disembarked. Kirby was amazed at how nice the Township was and how modern and clean everything was. Does this belong to y'all also?

Ed looked around; well some of it does and some of it belongs to our other partner Jake Traylor I believe your father is going to be working for him because his books are a mess and he needs help. Not that Genmen can't learn to work in the financial industry is to say money management has not always been their greatest forte.

Madison chuckled; you can say that right, Benjamin has a hard time managing a budget at the house. It seems that the more we make the more he spends and doesn't realize where it goes.

Kirby spoke up; if you need household budgets my dad can show him how to account for everything down to the last scrap of bread much less a dime in, he can make a penny scream according to my mom.

Zack walked in walked up behind Constantine, excuse me young man we have several weary travelers that are in need of nourishment one of your famous chocolate ice cream malts.

Constantine turned around and smiled; great to see Mr. Zack, you haven't been around enough and we missed you. It looks like you have a very thirsty bunch for sure, Mr. Ed how you are doing Sir?

We're doing wonderful Constantine we've just returned from humanitarian trip to the city to one of the shelters and that we've read turned with excess baggage in this piece of baggage, he is a little thirsty and might be a little bit hungry. So, I think I better feed him and nourish him before his family arrives at the Z1.

Constantine walked up to Kirby and stuck his hand out to the young man, welcome to the family because at the Z1 that's what we're about family. I'll start everyone with a glass of Coolwater and burgers and fries are all the way around with chocolate milkshakes and then if you still hungry we have fresh pies.

Kirby looked around and thought better of it, I'm sorry I can't eat because I would feel guilty my brother or sister will be hungry to.

Don't worry about that young man, what Constantine doesn't know is the shuttles are going to stop by here and you're being forewarned in about an hour to hour and a half you're going to have a group of children that are headed to the Z1 but first they're going to stop by here for a treat. Carter along with Kirby's parents and his two siblings are on the transports along with a total of 76 orphaned human children headed to the Z1 for a new life and they are all going to be starving for food and of course your famous milkshakes.

Constantine looked around; well I better get busy in the kitchen because it looks like we're going to be quite busy out here but it's not a problem. With the expanded exterior dining that Jake added we've got more than enough room and none of the ruffians will give the kids any lip if they ever want to eat here much less breathe. In fact, I'm going to make a phone call to Jake just to lace him up on what's fixed to take place.

Zack thought for a minute, that reminds me I need to go talk to Sonia some of the children are going to need clothing and they all need haircuts so they might be in town for a while. Ed and Zack walked out of the diner and headed down to Sonia's leaving the three young men there to talk and to drink Coolwater something that Kirby had never experienced but he loved it.

Sonja was thrilled to see Zach and hugged his neck, what can future granddaughter in law do for her grandfather?

Well besides of getting Ty to marry you, you and your staff are going to be very busy. We have a couple of transports headed this way and their full of children. 76 children to be in fact who are homeless and considered orphans after their parents abandoned them in local shelters in the city. They're going to need a suit of new clothes and a bunch of need haircuts. We have a 14-year-old with us down at the diner, he's going to need a haircut and some special clothing before his parents arrive at the Z1 on the transports, he is Ed's special guest. Before all the meals are served at Constantine's I'm sending Madison and Denton down here for a touchup because they're both a little bit shaggy and that will help Kirby build trust in people.

Send them right on I am waiting to do my magic, you know miss Sonja makes people look beautiful.

Zach hit his transponder and called Madison, who answered promptly. Put your drinks down I know you're drinking Coolwater that's not a problem. Now the three of you need to head down to Sonia's place she's waiting on you because you're getting a little shaggy you need a touchup and so does Denton, this will help build confidence in Kirby when it's his turn to hit the chair after she has already picked out new clothing for him and why you two are at it go ahead and pick up your suit also you both deserve it.

Yes, Mr. Zack we're on our way and as soon as were through there we will return to the diner for our lunch. Guys come on we need to go down the block for a minute, we have an appointment with miss Sonja per Mr. Zack, Denton.

Denton looked up and set his glass down, but if it's for Mr. Zach we have to move, come on Kirby you got an appointment along with us.

Kirby was a little unsure; exactly what kind of appointment do I have.?

The best kind wait to you meet miss Sonja, she's gonna love you. The three young men walked out of Constantine's and told him that they would return as soon as they were finished at Sonja's place.

And I'll have your food waiting on you hot and fresh replied Constantine.

Kirby walked down the sidewalk and noticed the beautiful shop on his right and it was a sign out front miss Sonja's place bring your raggedy self in and walkout a new person.

Sonja put her hands on her hips and looked at Madison, boy you have been working way too hard, you look like a shaggy rackknar and I don't let none of my customers look that way. You get yourself in that chair now, Denton you get in the other one baby. So that just leaves one more and I believe your name young man is Kirby, I have been instructed by Mr. Zach himself, my grandfather in-law to make you look like a proper young man so that your parents can see what kind of potential you have in life. First, I'm going to wash that mop you call hair and then we're going to pick out a style for it to be cut in, after that we step in the back, you'll want to pick out some new clothing for you, shoes, socks, undergarments the whole 9 yards.

Sonja began to work her magic on the boy, Hair was flying in all directions as she started to trim and cut the mop of hair. Before Kirby knew it, he could see a whole new young man appearing. He wanted cut short on the top and spiky on the top.

Kirby was amazed in himself; he didn't realize he had matured this much but in two weeks he would be 16 not that anybody would ever remember his birthday because they were too poor.

Sonja recognize there was something wrong the lad and asking what the big deal was?

He relayed to her that in two weeks he would turn 16 but that was just another year nothing special about his birthday.

Well child let me tell you one thing today is your lucky day, Mr. Zack has approved for you to receive five suits of clothes, three pairs of shoes and a week's worth of socks and undergarments so young man I think it's your birthday come early, little bit early this year and I am going to make sure you get the best, no second-rate clothes for such a sweet looking young man who's going to have all of the young hybrids, Genmen and local girls drooling wanting to get his name and number.

Sonja walked him to the back to the dressing rooms and had him to try on some clothing, before you knew it all the new clothes were picked out, he looked sharp in his newest outfit.

Madison and Denton had received their haircuts and freshen up's when Denton asked Sonja was everything going okay.

Going just fine child, this young man here is going to be a heartbreaker and a vent wrecker that's for damn sure he was commando and there ain't no shame in his game.

Denton smiled; we better get back to the soda shop it's about time that our meal is going to be ready. Now you just wait till you sink your teeth into Constantine's cooking it's going to be wonderful.

The three young men walked back into Constantine's Madison was first followed by Denton and then bringing into the rear was last but not least Kirby. Zach looked over at him, wow a little water, haircut new clothes and boy you look presentable now just like a proper young man should. But let me warn you, don't be embarrassed when you get propositioned by one of the young ones out at the ranch. They don't mean nothing by it other than to let you know that your cute and they wouldn't mind when they transition if you help them out of a difficult situation by being their first.

Kirby was a little embarrassed and blushed, do hybrids and Genmen always speak so bluntly?

Madison cleared his throat; it's just part of their routine life, if they see good stock genetics and a chance to conceive a child and bear it they'll make themselves available to you but you have a couple years before you're ready to make that leap but they do love to kiss and make out. All those teenage hormones never go to waste.

Constantine brought out the meal and a worker brought out the chocolate milkshakes. Zach set a blessing over the meal is Kirby set there mesmerized by the food that he would be able to consume. He had never seen anything like this before it was fabulous.

I think I just found my favorite place to eat, besides at the house, because that's where will probably be at most the time struggling to put food on the table.

Jake busted out laughing, boy do you have a rude awakening when you get to the ranch. We have our own greenhouse's and vegetable fields; we raise star birds and other livestock to consume it's all readily available to everyone that lives on the Z1 or Hawthorne Ranches so you will never ever worry about being hungry again young man.

Madison and Denton verified the story that Jake had just told Kirby.

As a finished up the meal Zach stepped up to Constantine and squared the ticket.

Constantine walked over and shook Kirby's hand and told him not to be a stranger and if he ever felt that he needed to make a little money to help out he could always have a job working at the soda shop. This made Kirby's chest swell with pride he thanked Constantine.

Denton's communicator went off it was his dad; they spoke for a few minutes and he told his dad goodbye and hung up.

Zack asked was everything okay?

Yes Sir; I have been instructed by dad to stop by and deliver a message to Houston, Howie and the young doctor. They have been summoned to a meal at the house tomorrow night, non-attendance isn't an option.

Well; Madison can drive you by so that you deliver the message, then he can take you home, I'll escort this young lad to the staging area so that he can meet his parents unless you want to be there when they see him then I suggest we get it in high gear so you can meet that deadline of yours.

Denton was very happy that he would be included in the fold of Kirby meeting his parents for the first time on the ranch.

Jake chuckled; well Ed had better get that bird in the air then for going to make this deadline. Ed smiled; just waiting on you slowpoke because it's already warmed-up and ready to take off.

Madison and Denton and Kirby took his bags and they all followed the three men over to the travel Lodge to the waiting sky transport.

Within seconds they were in the air and headed to the ranches. No sooner than they touched down Madison and Denton were off to go deliver the message and to return to the staging area for the transports to arrive.

Denton walked up to the cabin door and knocked; Howie answered the door.

Denton introduced himself and told him that he was here to see his brother Houston to deliver a message from their dad and it also pertained to him.

When Denton walked into the living room Caleb removed his arm from around Houston and the two set up straight. No sense playing it all cool because we all know what happened and I don't care I'm not going to get into it, it's not my place, but what is my place is to deliver to you Houston, Howie and Caleb a formal request for you to attend a meal Saturday night at 5 PM; don't you dare be late. Non-attendance is not an option, as you know dad is hormonal and grouchy because of the pregnancy. Do not test his patients because I don't want to see anybody's head flying across room like he threatened us earlier, father left the house and went to work on his off day. I had another errand to do with Mr. Zack myself. So, if you three know what's good for you and you like breathing have your butts there at 5 o'clock sharp for supper that's the message, I've got a transit to meet so goodbye. Denton took leave and left the cabin.

Everyone was standing out front as the two transits arrived, Arlen, Sheila, Angeline and Thomas stepped off. Sheila could not believe her eyes there standing in front was her not so little boy Kirby. She hadn't realized that he had grown up so fast, hair neatly trimmed and styled dressed in brand-new clothing. Kirby walked to his mom and wrapped his arms around her, he told her how very much he loved and appreciated everything that she did to keep their family together along with his father. Arlen joined in the hug fest.

Zack stepped forward and welcomed the William's to their new home on the Z1 and took them on a small tour. Ed and Jake along with Carter helped match up all of the homeless children with sponsor families. There were more homes than there were children but Carter told everyone not to despair because there would be more children on the way that needed a loving home to be raised in. These were human children but that didn't matter, a child is a child and it needs a family.

Coming Soon P-46

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