UFO STEAM FEST

In years past Roswell has always celebrated it’s unique connection with other worldly visitors. It all began in July 1947 when a mysterious craft crashed not far from the sleepy little desert village.
The controversy and conspiracy theories have raged every since. However today sixty-eight years later Roswell is anything but sleepy.

The center of UFO study is also a Mecca for Sci Fi and comic fans and film buffs. Among them is a small but growing steam-punk society.
What I find interesting about Steam-Punk is how it can be applied like a new coat of varnish to any genera; Sc-Fi, horror, western, super heroes and so on. This application is more and more being used in film, video games, television and literature,

                                                 Actress Mary Morgan 'Parallelogram'

The state of New Mexico offers many great tax incentives for major  film companies to come to the Land of Enchantment. Roswell city leaders are investing a lot in the town’s future in the film industry. The Roswell Film Festival is in its fifth year and growing in international fame.  Roswell will soon be breaking ground on one hundred and twenty acres to build  it’s very own film studio.  Already local film makers get financing from the city’s lodgers tax. Here too steam-punk is fighting for recognition. A little film called Parallelogram produced by a rebellious group of local steam-punkers made its way into the film fest.

                                                                That's one big ass gun.

New Mexico has a long illustrious history with the aerospace industry from Unexplained sightings of strange aircraft to A-bombs to stealth fighters and now the Space Port America. So there is the background and setting but what of the people. New Mexico borders Texas, Arizona, Colorado and Old Mexico and draws heavily from that rich western influence. So too one will notice the occasional steam-punk gunslinger.

                                                   Lord Epitaph sporting a reverse draw

Numerous native tribes call New Mexico home. Their art, culture and food influence everything in the state. Hispanic culture also adds a bold flavor as well. What you may not know is how international New Mexico is. Visitors from all over the world and from beyond our atmosphere flock to the state in droves. Seekers of fine art, spicy food and awe inspiring sunsets come for the colorful life style but they also come because of the wonderful friendly people. New Mexicans will go an extra mile to help a stranger no matter where they hail from. It’s one of the reasons I call New Mexico home.
I personally suspect New Mexican’s DNA has been altered by alien geneticists to make them a little nicer than regular humans. It’s a radical theory one that will surly invoke controversy. But damn it how else can you explain how kind and considerate true New Mexicans are?
Here’s another steamy factoid about New Mexico. There are boiling geothermal  hot-springs peculating all under the state. The town of Truth or Consequences is floating on geo-power. Another hot spot is Ojo Caliente a picturesque resort featuring hot mineral spas perfect for a time traveling steamer to relax in. Legend has it aliens would land and soak in the springs when they were in our quadrant. Ok, I just made that one up, but it could have happened.

                                                                Awesome goggles

Steam-punk is permeating pop culture; movies, games, art, comics. Is it a fondness for the Victorian age? Or a new fascination with hoop skirts and corsets? In Queen Victoria’s time the world was changing radically into a technological age. It was a time when coal was king, dirty but a power source that built empires. Coal fired steam pushed ships, trains and powered factories.  Mad inventors were coming up with all kinds of wild ideas. Ecto plasm detectors and the vibrator, well one of those caught on.

However, modern day steamers are powered by electricity and they build their fantastic creations from recycled junk. I was amazed at the ingenuity of the craftsmanship I saw at the cosmicon. On display was repurposeing at its best.
What looks like a fantastic high-tech weapon or gadget, upon closer examination is really scraps of plumbing, welders goggles, nut, bolts, vintage clothing, wires, old watches and duct tape. I tell you steamers put Mcgyver to shame.

                                                           Macayo makes a new friend

Aside from blowing my diet all to hell at the salsa bar. My primary objective at the cosmicon was to introduce my Crossbreed and Blood Moon novels to new readers. My traveling companion Macayo the Magnificent  had one job. Attract attention to our booth and then let me do the talking.
Our first day on the convention floor started out with Macayo getting all the attention. Every one wanted pictures with him. So being the pirate that I am and smelling loot I found a big jar and put a tip sign in it, “Parrot and Pirate photos $1.00" Macayo’s jar filled up every day. The big ham bone squawked when I closed up every evening, he didn’t want to leave his fans.

                                                     Don Glut and I are booth neighbors

Some of the high points of the con, were meeting legendary comic writer Don Glut {Savage Sword of Conan, New Adventures of Frankenstein.} He and Macayo became friends of the feather.

                                                            Macayo meets Tommy Lister

Actor Tommy Lister was on hand for autographs. You had a choice of stills from his many action films. My favorite was Fifth Element his portrayal of Earth’s president was superb. As he signed it he quipped, “When you see Obama, you tell him, I was the first black president.”

                                             A surprise visitor from a galaxy far far away

Another big star and I mean he was the biggest dude there. Was a giant wooky what a crowd stopper he was.

Their were some pretty awesome cosplayers but without a doubt the steam punks were the most creative. Judging by the crowds that gathered around their booths I would say they were the show favorites.

After the cosmicon I ran down to check out the UFO fest they had blocked off a long stretch of Main street for a carnival, live music, fireworks and a tent city of vendors. Uhmmm, Tripe tacos smothered in green chiles and foot long corn-dogs. Yeah I know, heart attack!

Macayo and I have had a blast these last few days from the festivals to the Steam Punk Ball it was total entertainment. We are looking forward to next year and now we’re on the road to Vegas to see what mischief we can find in Sin City.

Thank you for reading, your humble purveyor Karl Clay Vetter

DEATH AND DOMINATION EPISODE 11

 

I will be on the road for two weeks then back in Mystic Canyon for two then back on the road for two more. I've been writing so much these last few years and I've neglected the convention circuit. So it's time to get out and meet the fans and see what's happening. I will expect to see a lot of cosplay. A full report will come soon and now here are two new chapters.

BLOOD MOON SOCIAL CLUB

DEATH AND DOMINATION EPISODE 11

By Karl Clay Vetter & C. Vetter

This is a work of fiction. The characters, incidents, and dialogues are products of the authors’

imagination and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

This story was inspired by the fictional events and characters created at the Blood Moon Social Club interactive theater. Produced and directed by Karl Clay Vetter, C. Vetter and Patrick Foster.
The authors wish to thank all the Blood Moon Social Club members for their outstanding performances and support. The fictional characters in this story pay homage to you each and every one. Proceeds from this book go toward keeping the Blood Moon Social Club alive.
Copyright protected © 2015 by Karl Clay Vetter and C. Vetter.
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission of the creators, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews. Unauthorized digital sharing is a punishable offense.
Technical support Patrick Foster.

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CHAPTER 22 THE CATALINA CUTLAS

As the day-light hours rolled by Marilena worked without pause. She packed every plasma bag in insulated coolers with freezer packs. Jerry worked the phone calling in blood orange donors. She squeezed each one and filled another cooler. She was exhausted and yet she worked on with Jerry loading the delivery van.

“Where do you want me to deliver all this?”
“You close up and go get some sleep, I'll handle this.” Patting his hand. “Listen to me. I may be back tomorrow morning and everything will go back to normal. But there is a slim chance I won't. Can you run things for me and answer to Oleander?”
“Sure but...”
“No buts, do as I say. I'll leave the keys under the seat. If I don't return come to Lake Mead Marina and get the van.”
“Okay Boss.” He went inside and closed the door.
Marilena loaded her go-bag in the passenger seat. She unzipped it and laid a long wooded box on the bundle of hurriedly packed garments. Oleander had given her a gift before leaving.
“Even a mouse needs a claw,” Oleander had told her.
She opened the box and remove an elegant but lethal knife sheathed in what appeared to be reptilian leather. The hilt was a beautiful dark burgundy wood inlaid with a white flower. The blade was made of the finest forged steel with silver etchings in a language she could not read. It was honed to a deadly sharp edge. She replaced it feeling a bit more confident after having it fill her hand.
“Go ahead and try something Mr. One-eye and I will poke out your good one.”

***

“What in bloody hell is this?” Bret's question was delivered in a gruff bark.

Barron watched from the dock as Captain Thornton and his mate the young blond biker from the bar readied the boat. He was just as dismayed as Bret. “I thought you had some kind of sailing ship like a yacht or something?”
The Captain snorted like a bull facing down a first time matador. “A yacht! This is Lake Mead not the South Pacific. I come out here to get away from the noise and lights of Vegas. To relax, fish, drink beer and if I'm lucky, get a little. This here yacht as you call it is my home away from home. She's an eighty foot pontoon house boat. Besides you said you were taking off in that dinghy over there.” He pointed at a sleek ski boat outfitted with powerful inboard jets. It was tide up a few yards away.”
Bret gave a deep grumble. “That is hardly a dinghy and it's for getting into shore and quick getaways not a long expedition.”
“Don't you worry about my Catalina Cutlass. She has a galley sleeps as many as eight and her diesel tanks are full plus we brought extra fuel.”
Bret walked her length. “Just one question. How fast is she?”
“Fast! You never said you wanted fast. I recall a lot of gab about passengers and liquid cargo, blood for you and booze for us.”
“And booty Skip, they said lots of treasure,” The mate interjected.
“You are right Sam more treasure than we could carry but not a word about fast.”  
Barron gingerly stepped on board. “He's got us there although slow and stable doesn’t bother me. These big flat house boats aren't pron to flipping over are they?”
Sam laughed. “Hard as hell to sink a boat like this.”
Bret laughed back. “Flipping over is the least of our concerns.”
The breeze was shifting and blowing from shore on it came a distinct and tantalizing scent. Bret was the first to detect it, he being always on alert. Then it came to Barron's vampire senses, it was very familiar to him. Not being in werewolf mode the other two caught it last. They all watched as Andre pushed a heavy load along the floating dock walk. It was his companion however that had everyone's attention.
Marilena lead the way her young body alive with pulsing corpuscles. To the vampires she lit up the night like a twenty-four hour diner beckoning to hungry travelers on a lonely road. Norris and Sam got a different vibe. Any man with an ounce of testosterone would have picked up on her feminine attributes. Werewolf males could sense all her more subtle enticements, their primal urges were awakened. 
She greeted Barron with a friendly smile. “Good evening sir. It took me a long time but I filled your order It's all ready to load, every bag of fresh squeezed juice.”
Barron held up his right hand. “It's okay to speak freely everyone here knows it's not fruit juice.”
She shrugged “I figured as much but you can never be careless around strangers. Here is your invoice.”
He took the paper listing a variety of organic products. “Marilena Costa this is Norris Thornton Captain of the Catalina Cutlass and his mate Sam...Sorry didn't get your last name?”
The tall blonde sauntered past the others and stepped onto the dock. Coley...Sam Coley. Pleased to meet you Marilena.” He held her hand a second longer than necessary.
“Norris cleared his throat with intent. “Sam, get that load in the fish coolers.” 
“Aye Skip.” Sam parted but let his smile linger.
“Barron had glanced back at the paper and was suddenly struck by a figure in the total column. “Excuse me, my dear but are you sure this is the correct amount?”
She had been anticipating the reaction. “Yes sir I checked it twice and I gave you your customary business discount. I did exactly as your friend directed me to do.” She gave Bret a smug little nod. “He insisted I give you everything in stock, including all the special blends and even the reserved inventory held for my select clients. Even your special reserve sir. He demanded it all even though I told him it would cost extra. I haven’t slept in near twenty-four hours for squeezing every donor I could call in.”
Bret gave her a scorching glare. “Here let me see that.” He snatched it from Barron’s hand. His gaze burned over the amount. “You greedy little chum chaser!”
Marilena snapped back. “Richer than a pirate queen! That's what you swore. I knew you were a liar then and I'm calling you one now in front of everybody.”
“Oh you'll get your loot Sharky but spend it you won't. Because I'm gonna suck every drop of organic juice right out of you.”
In his rage Bret did not realize his threat would provoke such a response from the rest of the crew. Norris and Sam both shifted into wolf with claws and fangs showing. For a vampire to threaten a living human was a call to arms. Barron had reacted too. With a signal from him Andre had stepped between Bret and the wild eyed Marilena.
“Everyone get a grip right now. No one is attacking anyone and Bret is a boisterous fool. He knows full well she is under my protection. As are you two, I gave my word there would be no trouble from us on this trip and I stand by it. Young woman If he agreed to your terms he will honor those terms. I'll personally see to it. In fact if his claims turn out to be false tonight you'll get your cargo back by morning and a handsome restocking fee for your trouble. Now is everyone calm so we can continue.”
Norris pulled back the wolf. “You just keep him down.”
Andre and Sam finished the loading. Sam called up to Norris on the upper deck, starting the engines. “Want me to tie up the dinghy?”
“In a minute first get the bow line.”
Barron turned to Marilena. “You should go now when we return you'll be paid one way or another.”
“I don't get it. You can reach any place on the lake in just a few hours why do you need so much food?”
Barron nodded. “A fair question someday I may even have an answer for you. For now I hope my word is good enough. Your investment is safe with me.”
“I trust you Barron, have a good trip wherever you're going.” She took the dolly cart and pushed it back along the dock walk.
“Andre.”
“Yes Boss.”
“Take our bags and ask the captain where he wants us to bunk.” he turned to Bret. “That was a foolish thing to say in front of anyone but especially those two.”
“Yeah I kinda lost it. There is something about that girl that just irritates the hell out of me. It's like a spell or something whenever she's around I get crazy agitated. Are you certain she's not a sorceress?”
“Positive, but perhaps what you're feeling is something else. Something you thought you lost a long time a go.”
Bret cocked his head. “You're not seriously implying …? Don't romanticize this. Where we're going she would be supper and no one would care not even the,” he glanced around and lowered his voice, “hound dogs.” Satisfied no one overheard he turned grabbed his duffel bag then vanished into the lower deck.
Barron was having strong misgivings about the trip, Norris was unpredictable, and Bret could not be trusted. Yet his own agenda was driving him forward. If there was even a sliver of a chance he might find the orb Bret spoke of, he was willing to risk everything. Risk it all on Vegas odds ten to one... No scratch that a hundred to one.

***

“It's been five hours Patch the sun comes early out here on the water. You better come up with something or I'll have to sweep your ashes over board.”

Quiet Blondie, I'm working.” Bret adjusted a knob and the small mirror moved. He adjusted a lens and took another reading. The night sky was clear and bright with a million of points of star light. He had been searching the sky for just the right ones.
Norris called down from his perch “Want me to move again?”
“No!” Bret's voice for the first time chimed excitement. “I see it, hold steady and have a look.”
Norris ordered Sam to take the wheel. “Get up here and don't let her drift.” He came to the open deck where the astrolabe was set up on a deck table.
Bret indicated to Barron first. Look right in here.”
Barron squinted into the eye piece. “I'll be damned I see it. He stepped back. “Take a look Captain.
Norris bent down. He was silent for a moment as he gazed at what appeared to be an elliptical corona around a slip of fog. He took his eye away and looked out over the water. “That is fucking incredible I can't see it with the naked eye.” He took another look and saw it clearly in the little mirror's reflection. “Now how do we guide the Cutlass through the slip?”
Bret got very solemn. “Listen to me all of you. Now is your last chance to bail out. I stole that speed boat as an escape boat should anyone want to go back to shore.”
Sam smirked. “What if we all want to go back?”
“Then I take the dingy and go alone.”
Barron was looking into the lens. “The real question is are you a liar like Marilena said? If you have embellished anything you told us now is the time to confess? I will not hold it against you if you tell us the truth right now before we decide to go or stay.”
Bret had all eyes on him. “If you go with me I can promise more amazing sights, more treasure, more danger than anything you can ever imagine. In fact we may all die in a horrible gruesome manner before this is over. Only come with me if you're are bold, fearless fools with a powerful aching lust for high adventure and have a total disregard for your own safety.”
Barron spoke first. “And the object I'm after?”
“As I told you, I know someone that claims to have seen it and knows the way. He's known by many as Lord Rainhaven. I can guide us to where I last saw him.”
Barron looked at Andre. “Old friend I release you of your responsibilities to me. You may want to take that boat back to shore.”
“I'm with you Boss. Sounds like fun.” he stroked the object concealed under his coat. “beside you may need Little Mamma.
Norris agreed. “That's the spirit, I want to see these island wenches for myself. What says you Sam?”
From the wheel he called down. “If you're looking for a reckless fool you found him? I'm in.”
Bret looked into the lens. “Time for talk is done get back on that wheel and do as I say we only have a few minutes before the slip closes.”
Norris shot up the ladder and took the wheel. Bret called out directions his good eye locked onto the eye piece. “Steady now your drifting to starboard ease her back. Steady...steady... almost there.”
Sam sounded off an alarm. “Wind's picking up she's drifting.”
Bret never moved his eye. “Hold her tight. We're on the mark.” The bow of the big rectangular boat encounter a vertical wisp of fog which seemed to split apart as if it were made of something pliant and flexible. More fog spilled out and rolled across the flat deck like party fog at a concert. The thick unnatural cloud engulfed the whole boat. It was dense and hard to for the humans to breath. A moment later and everyone was in total choking darkness.

CHAPTER 23 OCEANUS

When the fog cleared the stars had gone and in their place was a bright gray sky. Barron took refuge under the mid-deck awning. “What time is it? How long were we in the fog?”

Bret stood in the open. “Step on out here you won't burn. In this realm you never see the sun directly only fog and clouds. Even on a clear day the rays of the sun are defused. At night there are only a few points of light that penetrate the clouds. It makes navigation difficult that's why we need the astrolabe with it's special mirrors it magnifies invisible light waves.”
Norris came down from the wheel house with a pair of powerful binoculars. “Amazing water everywhere but no land in sight. Which way is north my instruments are acting crazy?”
Bret handed him a large bulky compass it was like none he'd ever seen before. “Use this and stay on a southern course. In time you'll see islands.”
“When?”
“At this speed in a few days. A word of warning to all, do not lean over the rails, or for damn sure no one go swimming. There are things in the water you don't want to attract.”
“What about mermaids?” Sam was moving toward the stern.
Andre was close behind him. “Hey Boss you better see this.
After centuries of hiding from the sun Barron was still apprehensive of walking in the daylight. Extending a cautious hand he tested the light. When his fingers did not burst into flame he ventured forth. The brightness caused him to squint but other than a tingly sensation on his face he was not uncomfortable. “I never thought I ever do this again.” No one heard for they were all gathering to look at the dinghy.
Barron strode up next to Bret expecting to see another miraculous sight. What he saw was a slender female form, her long dark hair blowing in the sea breeze. She was standing on the engine cowling of the ski boat. As she turned to face the Cutlass she saw them watching her.
“Sorry to crash your little boat party. I hid in here to keep a watch on my cargo. I was so tired I guess I fell asleep. If you can just drop me off at the marina I can get myself home.” She was confused by the men laughing at her statement. “What's so funny?” They laughed even louder all save one. Bret's displeasure was evident without words.  
Barron hardened his composure. “Well captain I have no say in what happens now this is your boat. What do you do with stowaways?”
“Toss them over the side and let them swim.”
“Hey Skip, that's a little harsh, don't you think?”
“Oh Sam you always were a bit soft. But I suppose we could put her to work in the galley.” 
Barron's countenance turned cold. “I believe what the captain is saying is since you've seen fit to inject yourself into this expedition you better make yourself useful. There is no marina, where we go you go.”
Marilena pushed a wave of hair out of her face. “So you're saying we're not in Kansas anymore?”
Barron looked at Bret with a wry smile. “Why don't you explain it to her?”
“Why me?”
“Come Andre let's leave him to his task.”
Sam offered to take the job. “If you can't handle it I'm your man?”
Norris buffed him on the shoulder. “You have work to do let's get to it.”
Bret took hold the tow line and pulled the dinghy to within reach. “Well Sharky, you have no idea the shit you're in now.”
Marilena reached under the driver seat and retrieved her bag. “Enlighten me Bret. What kind of shit am I in?”
“That mud slide you were talking about? Well you're up to your neck in it. But you knew what you were doing, you even packed a bag.”
She hopped from the bow of the ski boat to the Cutlass, grabbing his arm to steady herself. “My whole life is in those fish coolers did you really think I would just let you run off with it?”

“You think that you're safe with those guys protecting you but who's going to save you from them. You only know the civilized side; the carefully constructed underworld that blends in. You've never seen what happens when we turn into blood crazed monsters.”

She opened her bag took the long knife out and strapped it on.
“What are you doing?”
“I'll protect myself and my investment. Richer than a pirate queen you said. I think you're a man who keeps his word if he can. I'm along to make sure you do.”
“You're a reckless fool Sharky.”
She smiled at that. “No more than the rest of you. Women can be just as reckless as men.” She looked around the horizon “I really did fall asleep. Where are we?”
“Not in Kansas for sure. Not even on earth. We came through a portal into another realm. No cell phones, no juice bars, no yoga classes. And here's one you're gonna love. You know how you girls are always bitching about equal rights. In Oceanus a goat has more rights than you.”

***

The passing of days was marked only by the cloudy gray sky growing bright then dimming to darkness. On what seemed to be the third night a break in the clouds revealed a moon of sorts. “What is that? It's too big to be the moon.” Norris used his binoculars to get a better look.

Bret took a reading with the astrolabe. “No it's not the moon you know. Some say it's a reflection of earth. Not the one we left but from a different time. The theory is that when we come across we pass through different waves of space and time. Compressed momentarily together long enough to make a jump through a slip. When that earth is in the correct alinement then we jump back, if we can find the right slip.” He then took out a battered old log book bound in the thick skin of some sort of sea creature and jotted down the results of his readings.
Barron was fascinated by how the astrolabe could detect the slightest speck of light obscured by the dense cloud cover. “Is this device used by other sailors? I'd love to meet the inventor.”
Bret stiffened. Not a word about the gadget. Do you hear me never speak of it to anyone we meet. There is only the one and if we loose it... we are lost. Do you understand?”
They both agreed.
“Good and Norris you should instruct Sam,” he looked at Barron, “and Andre too. We can't have a slip of the tongue it could spell disaster.”
Barron nodded. “Which leaves Marilena. Since we each have a charge it should be you that informs her of the necessity of tight lips.”
“Why in hell do you keep shoving her onto me. She's your blood broker, you swore to protect her, she belongs to you. If you don't want her give her to Sam he'd like nothing better.”
Barron listened with his usual careful consideration. “No she is now fully in your charge. If anything happens to her it's on you. I don't know what it is but there is a strange connection between the two of you.”
“I told you not to romanticize this...”
“I'm not this is different. I sense the connection I just can't identify it, but trust me it's there. Now while we're on the subject of secrecy is there anything else we should be wary of?”
“Everything! The five laws are simple; take what you can, careful what you say, believe half of what you hear, keep your free hand on your valuables and never pull a weapon save to kill.” The conference ended when Marilena called everyone to dinner.
Sam was always the first to arrive at meal time. Partly because he had a ravaging apatite but mostly to chat up the cook. “Can I help with anything I hate seeing you do all the work?” 
Your sweet for asking but it's all done now sit and eat.” She placed a slab of perfectly grill fish steak in front of him. Then she poured a glass of wine for him and two more of the same for Andre and Norris. The men cut into their meals with gusto.
Barron sat opposite of Norris and next to Andre. “You've certainly made yourself useful. A well fed crew is a happy lot.”
She poured him a glass of red liquid from a different wine bottle. “I like to stay busy. It's boring with nothing to on this barge.”
Bret ambled in and fell into a chair. He snatched up his long stemmed wine glass and downed the contents. “Refill.” he demanded holding the glass in his fist. “I don't know why you don't just give me a bag? Why do we need all this pretense?”
She put the cork back in the bottle and held it like a club. “Did anyone ever tell you your manners are atrocious?”
Barron sniffed his beverage then took another sip. “I quiet agree. Even though I don't eat the fish I enjoy the pleasantries of dinner conversation.”
Bret sat his glass down. “Just do your job and fill the glass...please.”
“The only reason I agreed to be the galley girl is because if any one of you slugs were in charge of meals we'd be eating raw meat off the floor. Now shut your trap before I split your skull.” She threatened with the bottle.
Norris chuckled. “Spoken like a true Sea Cook.”

***

Between breakfast and lunch the clouds thinned a bit and Marilena took some time for herself. Over hanging the bow of the boat was a sun deck where she could lay in a lounge chair and soak up some soft light.

Sam was nearby tossing out galley scrapes when he spotted her long smooth legs. He glanced around and saw no one watching. Barron was still in his bunk and the others were in the wheel house. He made his way to the bow. “Not much chance of getting a sunburn is there?”
Without opening her eyes she replied in a lazy voice. “No but it's warm at least.”
“It is warm, isn't it?” He slid his tight T-shirt off.
Through a narrow slit of her raised eyelid she could see his muscular torso.
He followed the sensual contours of her body with his approving eyes. “You know what still creeps me out is how the blood suckers can walk around without catching fire?”
Her soft full lips curled into a smile. “Barron is so set in his ways he still sleeps til evening time.”
Sam's gaze came to rest on a small round scar high on her thigh. “That's a sexy little scar how'd you get it?”
Her hand slid down her naked abs to finger the mark. “That is a bullet hole.”
He was surprised. “How the hell did you get shot?”
“Oh it's a long boring story.”
“Give me the short version.”
“I was young and in lust with a dude who was a mule for a drug lord. He wanted to marry me and I said yes. We went to one of those Vegas chapels, you know the ones. We said our vows and went out for pictures. Well he forgot to mention that he'd ripped off his boss for a big bag of cash. His gangster buddies crashed our wedding and shit went down. I took one in the leg and my bridegroom took eighteen all over. The gang took back their money and my honeymoon was a funeral.” Her story ended with a bump from under the boat, her deck chair slid sideways two feet. Sam grabbed the rail to avoid falling over the side.

***

Bret had been observing the couple from the wheel house. In truth he never missed much of anything that went on. The food in the water, the casual flirtations next to the edge all spelled trouble. When that trouble broke the surface in the form of a large jagged fin he waited for the nudge. When it came he vanished from the wheel house and mere seconds later reappeared next to the startled sunbather. A moment later a pair of dark gray fleshy tentacles grabbed Sam around his throat and chest.

“Sam!” she cried out.
Survival instinct kicked in and Sam shifted to the wolf, his body grew in size and muscular bulk. Thick fur covered his raging body. His claws raked at the powerful arms that had him ensnared.
Marilena rose to help him. Bret snatched her up in his arms and held her in a vice. She struggled to free herself but for the first time she was aware of just how incredible his vampire strength was. She was like a tiny helpless child in his crushing grip.
The werewolf gnawed at the slithering arms but they were like chewing thick rubber. Suddenly, a gaping maw appeared over the rail. It resembled the mouth of a great white shark with rows of triangular teeth, the gullet was big enough to swallow the howling wolf-man. Its long serpent like body thrashed as it struggled to keep its grasp on Sam.
Andre heard the calamity and charged up the steps from the lower deck. From under his coat he drew forth a black Russian made PP-2000. Little Mama roared like a chainsaw and silver slugs sprayed re sea monster's face.  
Sam had twisted himself around to face his attacker but he was being pulled ever closer to the creature's horrendous mouth. Norris from on high did not bother to run down the deck ladder he jumped to the deck from the wheel house. Before he landed his human form had given way to a mighty alpha wolf. His strength being twice that of Sam's he tore off one of the tentacles, inky blood spewed from the withering stump. His right hand slammed into the monster's glaring eye and his long lethal claws ripped out the things eyeball. The damage was too shocking and the beast released its prey. It sank back into the churning sea.
Marilena still struggling demanded to be released. “Let me go damn you.”
“Gladly,” Bret dropped her to her feet.
“You just stood there and did nothing, Sam could have been swallowed by that thing.”
Bret nodded. “True, but it has been made painfully clear to me that I am to protect you above all others. Not some idiot that throws chum in the water then turns his back on the sea. I warned all of you of the danger.”
Barron spoke up in his defense. “Yes you did and we have all been lax because we had not seen just what lays below.”
Norris had changed back. “From now on no more garbage over the sides and keep away from the edge that was too close.” He started back up to the wheel house. 
Bret turned his eye on Marilena's glistening body clad in a black bikini top and a pair of tight gym shorts. “As for you Sharky no more baking your naked body out there on the bow. Your attracting every predator around.” An accusing glance shot at at Sam.
Sam saw the look and got the double meaning. “Don't rag on her it was my fault.” He spied his chum bucket laying near the deck chair. “Quit bitching old woman, I'm done with fishing for the day.” He bent to pick it up. “The gang back at the bar will never believe this fish story. What the hell was that anyway a sharktopus?”
Bret gave a dry chuckle. “Believe it or not they are more like eels.”
“Eels? Oh the boys will never buy that and I didn't even get a selfie for Face Book.”
Bret grabbed Marilena by her arm and flung her back behind him and simultaneously yelled a warning. “Sam run!”
Rising from the sea like a tidal wave, was a black mass of teeth and tentacles to dwarf the the previous little monster. It's breaching bulk landed hard on the deck smothering Sam in a writhing tangle of sucker arms. The weight and force lifted the back of the boat thirty feet out of the water dragging the tethered dinghy with it. Everyone fell forward as a salty wave washed over them. Andre had reloaded Little Mamma but could not get a shot off. Barron gripped a rail with one hand and Andre's leg with the other.
Bret staggered but kept his footing he was sliding downward toward the beast when he saw Marilena rolling past him directly into its reaching arms. He was super fast but not fast enough to save both she and Sam. His decision was made in a micro second. He scooped her up and grew claws on his right hand. He slammed the floor hooking his long talons deep into the fibrous decking. Using his massive frame as a shield he covered her and held tight as the Cutlass continued to rise. Unsecured gear cascaded down bouncing and rolling over them. The weight of the whale sized behemoth nearly capsized the Cutlass. The creature having what it wanted undulated its long slippery body and slid back into the sea. The back of the boat fell hard with a thunderous crash tossing the crew across the deck like tumbling toys.
Norris was the first to recover his footing. “Sam! Sam!” his anguished cries went unanswered.
Bret warned him back from the bow. “He's gone Captain! I'm sorry but he is gone and you must get us out of here before a bigger one comes.”
Norris stared wide eyed at him. “Bigger than that?”
“Yes, now get us moving. Full speed south.”
Bret retracted his claws and stood. Marilena lay on the deck wet cold and pale. “Are you okay? Can you stand?” Her head turned and she looked up at him. Her dark eyes wet with tears. He was stoic and hardened to such events but something in her face moved him. Even though he knew she'd lived a violent life she was still a living woman with emotions and feelings. Gently lifting her he carried her to her cabin. Once there he placed her on her bunk then took a hand towel and dried her face. “I hear the engines kicking up to top speed. We will be clear of this place soon.” He was halfway through the door when she spoke.
“Thanks for not yelling at me. You were right, we should have listened to you. Sam might be alive now if I hadn't come along.”
Bret looked back at her over his shoulder. “Sam was reckless bold and daring. I kinda liked that about him. But in our world a man lives every day as if it could be his last. Because reckless bold and daring is what got him killed not you.”

Coming soon Chapters 24 CUDACARUMBA and 25 MARK OF THE CONCUBINE

What starts out as a romantic outing quickly becomes a bloody test of survival.

Thank you for reading your humble purveyor, Karl Clay Vetter

 

DEATH AND DOMINATION EPISODE TEN

If I haven’t told all my family and friends lately how much I love your company then be it now. I’ve just been informed by my cardiologist that I need to check in to the hospital on Monday. He’s concerned that there may be a blockage of blood to my lower heart. Yep he’s going to poke a tiny camera into my arteries and snoop around in there. I’ll let you know how bad it is next week. In the mean time here are two more chapters of Death and Domination hope I live to finish the book. That would suck if you never got to read the climactic ending.

BLOOD MOON SOCIAL CLUB

DEATH AND DOMINATION EPISODE TEN

By Karl Clay Vetter & C. Vetter

This is a work of fiction. The characters, incidents, and dialogues are products of the authors’ imagination and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.
This story was inspired by the fictional events and characters created at the Blood Moon Social Club interactive theater. Produced and directed by Karl Clay Vetter, C. Vetter and Patrick Foster.
The authors wish to thank all the Blood Moon Social Club members for their outstanding performances and support. The fictional characters in this story pay homage to you each and every one. Proceeds from this book go toward keeping the Blood Moon Social Club alive.

Copyright protected © 2015 by Karl Clay Vetter and C. Vetter.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission of the creators, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews. Unauthorized digital sharing is a punishable offense.

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DEATH AND DOMINATION CHAPTER 20 THE GADGET

Barron offered the stranger a seat in front of his desk. “Bret is it? I didn't get a last name?”

“Bret's good unless you want me to make one up?” He sat and folded his hands across his lap.
“No we don't put a lot of credence in names around here nor do we ask a lot of questions. However, you went to some great expense to see me so what can I do for you?”
“Nothing that I can't reciprocate. You see you have a cool little gadget that I need and I know how to use it. Now in certain circles it's rumored that you collect rare and unusual artifacts. That gadget could be very useful for say a treasure hunt.”
Barron leaned back and scowled. “I don't care about lost gold or... pretty rocks. How did you happen to hear of me and what I may or may not have?”
Bret held nothing back he could feel the hairs on his head tingling a sensation he always felt when a telepath was probing his mind. “Oh you have it alright I beat it out of Rosen so lets not play games. I'd beat it out of you, but my bad luck you have way too much security so I come to you with a proposition instead. I can be practical. You have it but I guarantee you haven’t a clue what it is. Trust me it's amazing.” He left it dangling and pushed forward in his mind an image of and island in the midst of a great ocean under a cloudy sky. A midday sky with vampires walking about unharmed.
Curiosity getting the better of caution Barron had to capitulate. “Okay I'll bite what does it do?” He removed the gadget from a desk drawer and sat it before the stranger.
Bret reached over and adjusted the dials then he turned a little knob several times and suddenly it began to move. Tiny gears engaged and the mirrors and lenses changed positions. After a moment they stopped.
“Well...?” Barron's scowl deepened.
Bret shrugged. “What you saw was a failed attempt to line up on celestial points in the sky.”
“You're saying its a navigational device?
“Yes like a sextant or an astrolabe only far more advanced. You see it only works when you use it on a large body of water. Basically you need a boat.”
Barron mulled that over. “How do you know all this?”
“That's not important. You see I haven't told you the best part yet. When you use it in a specific manner at just the right time it will find a portal into another dimension. A place I want to return to and I need it to get back there. The slips or portals if you prefer are invisible to the eye but can be seen when the optics line up with the special mirrors. And even then you only have seconds to guide the boat through the opening.”
“So these portals are opening up randomly over great bodies of water? While you and others who know the secret just pop in and out anytime you please? Amazing! And not one fisherman has posted a video on You Tube. Thanks for the entertaining story Mr. Bret Whatever, now show yourself out.”
“But you read my mind?”
“You're not the first to shield his true thoughts with well crafted fake images, I've seen it before.”
Bret nodded. “Okay you're smarter than I gave you credit for. Still, I'm telling you the truth... just not all of it. You see I held back one critical detail. The reason no one has ever witnessed one of these events is two fold. First as I've stated conditions have to be absolutely perfectly alined or you miss the slip altogether and the boat never enters. Rarely, but from time to time a boat has enter quite by accident but the poor souls had no way to return and were thought to have sunk. Second, have you ever been out in the fog on a boat?”
“No I don't like boats. You're trapped by water on all sides with blistering sun over head all day. It's like a floating coffin with no escape.”
“Yeah I know the feeling but that's only on this side, over there the sky is very cloudy and low fog lays on the water. When you come through some fog follows. On the remote chance you're seen the eye is fooled by the mist. The events only occur over water where a very few eye witness accounts have been chalked up to all kinds of things ranging from too much rum to the Bermuda Triangle. Look here's an easy solution. You rent the astrolabe to me for one night out on Lake Mead. If I'm full of shit you get some pretty rocks and keep the device. If on the other hand I disappear into the slip I keep my gadget and you're amazed. Of course if you come along you just may find the golden orb you're looking for.”
Barron stiffened. “You didn't beat that out of Rosen.”
Bret smiled. No, but I did say in certain circles one hears things and for years you've been sending minions out with large rewards searching for the orb. Where I came from there is a legend of such an orb of gold that glows from within. You know I'm telling the truth, I can feel you sifting around in my head.”
Barron relaxed and pulled back his mental probing. “Does it have to be a boat?”

***

It was well after noon when Marilena crawled out of bed. Vampires kept late hours and so it was with her. In fact she had adopted many of their habits like avoiding the sun and following a liquid diet. She started her evening with a cappuccino then followed with a fruit and vegetable smoothy. In the days before Oleander's raid on the blood bank her complexion was a rich dark chestnut. Passing a mirror she noticed how pale she'd become making her brown eyes all the darker.
She felt like dressing casual so she slid into a snug black pair of yoga pants, a black tank top and matching Nikies then tide her long bruin hair back. It was her intention to make a quick run to the Glow Worm juice bar a clever health food front for her back room off the grid blood bank. The plan was to see to it her manager Jerry, had the shop up and running. Then take the rest of the night off and finish reading a torrid romance novel she'd started a week before. Silly things she knew but a frivolous habit she picked up while waiting on former boyfriends to see their parole officers. Always about a beautiful red-head with emerald-green eyes being swept away by a handsome rogue with a castle. Why were the heroines always green-eyed red-heads? Why should they have all the fun?
Jerry was whipping up a protein shake for a customer when she trotted in. The young man was all human but a loyal donor. When she entered he smiled and said, “Hi Boss,” but gave here a sharp glance toward the back room. The look was a prearranged signal.
“Hi Jerry, I'm going to squeeze some blood oranges and refill the dispenser. Can you manage without me?”
“Sure thing Boss.”
She closed the door and locked it then entered another room. Here she would normally find a donor in need of fast under the table cash. She then would extract plasma and prepare it for delivery. Instead of a warm blooded, eager to be squeezed 'blood orange' as was the code name for donors. She was confronted by Andre and the one-eye stranger. An all to familiar surge of excitement set her skin to tingling.
Miss Costa, Barron sent me here with a new customer his name is...”
“Bret,” she interjected.
“Yes.”
“Okay Andre I'll see him. You can go have a power drink on the house.”
“Thank you Miss Costa.” He exited the room.
She took a deliberate posture of indifference. “If you're looking for a quick fix I don't usually do that here. I delver to the clubs and they serve the clients. Crimson Rein is close by tell them I sent you.”
He was silent for so long she was about to speak again when he beat her to it. “I don't need a fix.” Another long irritating pause. “How much can I get before tomorrow night?”
“Well, that depends. I have my regular stock of twenty bags, then we squeeze a few more through the night.”
“Not enough.”
“Okay, I can call my donor list and bump up at least ten or twenty more.” But it'll cost extra.”
“Something tells me you don't mind charging extra, I need twice that.”
“Sorry in that short of time it's impossible.”
His piercing eye darted to a pair of locked refrigerators. “What's in there?”
“I have special clients that are willing to pay a lot for select blends and rare types. They have first call. And you don't look like you carry a bank full of cash around with you.”
“Yeah I know the ones, older than Methuselah, richer than a Pharaoh. What they like, a little something from the old country? Hundred percent pure Romanian, or a shot of royalty. Maybe you know a fifth cousin to the Queen of England that has a gambling habit, or perhaps some fresh virgin blood?”
“It's none of your business, so take what I can sell you and get out.”
He moved closer and dumped the last of his jewels on the counter. “That's all I've got so let's load up,” it was more of an order than a request.
In spite of his menacing expression she held her ground. That won't even cover what I'm willing to sell you.”
“You knew my name,” his razor edged gaze cut away her tough bad girl facade, “someone told you about me so you should know not to piss me off.”
Her hand flew to her mouth to stifle a burst of laughter. “Oh yeah you've got a bad rep, but don't swagger in here and threaten me. I have Andre and if you're not afraid of him then let's not forget I'm protected by every bloody old Methuselah in Vegas.” She sauntered up to within inches of his face. “So don't you piss me off, or I'll scratch out your other eye.” She put up a strong defense.
“You're dangerously pushy for a blood donor. What makes you so special?”
“You need to get it through that thick skull of yours, I'm not a donor. No one has ever put their fangs on me, I'm a broker and I supply all of Vegas.”
The grimace on his ruddy face lingered but a second then melted in to a dazzling smile. “Okay you're a brazen hussy, I can respect that. So here's the deal, fuck all your old regulars and sell me everything you've got. Do that and I'll make you richer than a pirate queen.”
Her pounding heart sent a violent shudder throughout her body. Most vampires she dealt with were civilized but this one was different and just scary enough to give her the shivers. But she didn't back down.“Oh sure and you've got a diamond mine under that patch,” her voice trembling.
His tone drifted down to seductive whisper. “No but you trust Barron right?”
“We have a good business relationship.”
“What if I told you he believes in my plan so much he's going along. That's why we need your juice. We won't be able to feed for several days until we hit land and we need enough for the whole crew.”
“Where are you going Antarctica?”
He smirked. “Further than that.”
She was torn between screaming for Andre or throwing herself into his arms. He was exactly the kind of man that always got her into trouble. Worse even than the gorgeous gun-runner that swept her off her feet then dumped her with a trunk full of AK-47s in her car. While the ATF was interrogating her like a home grown terrorist. Lover-boy crashed all her credit cards making his get-away to South America. It took weeks to convince the Feds she was an innocent victim of a ruthless con man.
“Look, I get how you need all this, and I'm sure you mean every word how you'll pay me what it's worth. I'm just not sure you've considered the 'shit happens' factor.”
“The what?”
“Every time I let some guy convince me it's gonna be just fabulous... shit happens. Then everything in my life gets crushed under a mud slide. Not the regular California kind where a few houses end up on the free-way. I'm talking like the ones in China or Bangladesh where whole towns disappear.”
He moved closer. The heat of her body warmed his powerful undead chest like a glowing hearth fire. I haven't overlooked anything. Shit happens because I make it happen. Bring me everything you have to Lake Mead, Andre knows where. When Barron returns he'll have more than you'll ever need. In the mean time tell your rich clients you got robbed and it'll be a week or so before you restock.” Before she could muster a rebuttal he was gone.
She rushed to a refrigerator, punched in a code, removed a cold bag and slapped it on her neck. “Damn it to hell! You’re a fool girl, a crazy fool.” She whipped out her phone and called the only person she could trust.
Oleander answered. “Hey sweetie, what's up?”
“He was here.”
“Who was there? I'm getting better but not yet a mind reader.”
“Rock hard body, disarming smile, one eye the color of a Caribbean lagoon.”
“Oh my God! Are you okay?”
“No! He waltzed in here like he was the first and last word. Told me how it was going to be and waltzed right out.”
“Did he do anything to you? What did he want? ”
“What do you think he wanted, my juice?”
“Well I hear he's rich, jack the price and sell it. If you're nice to him maybe you'll get a big ruby for a tip.”
“He wants it all, every last drop... Including your cut and he wants credit.”
“That arrogant son-of-a-bitch, I'll kill him!”

DEATH AND DOMINATION CHAPTER 21 THE CAPTIAN

The black limo left the pavement and drove for a quarter mile on a hard pack road. A weathered sign appeared briefly in the headlights. LONE WOLF TAVERN BBQ & BEER. A moment later a ramshackled building with four motorcycles parked in front loomed. Andre parked, got out and opened the door for Barron.

Bret exited from the the other side. “Smells like somebody’s been marking the trees.”
Barron cautioned with a stern look. “None of that talk around here. You wanted a boat so let me do the negotiating. Andre you watch the car we wont be long.”
“Okay Boss but if there's trouble I loaded Little Mamma with silver bullets.” He caressed a metallic bulge under his coat.
They had taken only four steps when a strapping young biker came through the door. He was as tall as Andre, stout as an oak tree and sporting long blonde hair with matching mustache. “This is a private club so turn around and blow.”
Barron held out his hands in a jester of submission. “We just came to see Norris Thornton about a business proposition. It wont take but a few minutes of his time.”
“My uncle is out but I'll put your name on the list maybe he'll get back to you in a month or two.”
“This is very important we need to see him now.”
Three more bikers exited lead by a were-wolf showing the first stage of shape shifting and this time they were armed. “You heard him fang faggot, nothing for you to suck on around here,” growled the wolf-man. 
Andre's hand slid under his coat. “Time for Little Mamma, Boss?”
“No,” Barron replied calmly.
“I'm Barron from the Blood Moon Social Club I respect the truce and last I heard so did Captain Thornton.” Fangs and fur began sprouting on the other three.
Bret moved forward. “Stay behind me and don't say another word.” He adjusted his eye patch to cover his good eye. “Now boys we don't want to fight. We came here to talk to your boss and that's what we're going to do.”
All four of the bikers stood staring at his face. Each one began to tremble and turn pale, as he came close they cringed back out of his path. “Follow me Barron we're going in.” As he entered he glanced around and saw no other club members so he covered the demon eye. “Okay you have about ten minutes to negotiate before those boys snap back.”
Barron walked past the frozen in fear bikers and stepped up to the bar. He scanned the room with all his senses on maximum. The air was pungent with werewolf pheromones, barbeque smoke, beer and liquor. Metal rock blared from the jukebox. The walls were adorned with pictures of sexy nudes draped over hot choppers. A single individual stood behind a swinging door in what smelled like the kitchen. In spite of the loud music Barron heard the distinct clicking of a double barreled shotgun's hammers being pulled back into firing position.“Good evening Captain It's been a long time. Might I have a moment of your time?” He laid his hands on the bar top. “Come now you don't need the weapon, but if you feel more comfortable by all means bring it.”
The door swung open. A massive man of fifty filled the opening with a body sculpted from granite. Graying hair and beard cascaded down to his rolling shoulders. The sawed-off aimed steady at Barron's head. “What the fuck did you do to my boys?”
“Nothing permanent and had they not been so aggressive not even that but please let us get to our reason for coming here. My associate and I are in need of your service and we're willing to pay well, that's all. Just a little boat ride out on Lake Mead. It's known that after your stint in the US Navy you bought a large sailing craft and have it moored at the marina. We just need a ride out to the middle of the lake and for that we will pay your price.”
“Suck shit someplace else. Whatever gave you the idea that I would go out on a boat with a bunch of blood drinkers? Do I look like a vampire's pick-nick basket to you?”
Only two vampires and my man Andre. We're bringing all the blood we need for the trip. You see we don't need you and your boat for more than a few hours. We have secured a smaller vessel for our voyage. We need yours for another purpose.”
The Captain was a brutish giant equal to Andre in bulk but he was also a shrewd negotiator and instantly knew there had to be much more to this story. He laid his gun down on the bar and poured a shot glass with rum and swallowed it. “I'd offer you one but I'm fresh out of your brand.”
Barron smiled. “Quite alright.”
“So what's to see, says me? Two night crawlers want to hire a confirmed vamp hater to go for a pleasure cruise on lake Mead. Ah but they have a secret, what could it be, says me?”
“No secret we're simply testing a nautical device.”
“No secret, says you? Well first you need a big boat and you need it fast. Two you need a seaman with experience and he's got to be clued in to the underworld politics. Three you're willing to enter wolf territory to see the old salt who wears all those hats... Me. Now why, says I? You already got a boat for your trip and you packed a lunch but that makes no sense unless you're working some kind of sorcery and you need a second boat in case something goes wrong,” he paused watching their eyes, neither blinked. “Getting warm, says I. So now I'm curious what are you two about to do and why should I help you do it?” He poured another and sipped it slow while Barron pondered his next move.
Bret being impatient interrupted the verbal chess game. “Look we can pay you or we can cut you in but you need to know some details first and that's my department.”
Barron sighed. “I was doing just fine now you'll have to tell him everything.”
The Captain smiled and rubbed his hands together. I knew it let's sit down and have a nice little chat and don't worry about the boys I'll take care of them. So can I get you gentlemen anything I've got some bloody rare steaks in the back?”

***

Oleander entered the Glow Worm from the rear entrance after punching in the key-pad code. She found Marilena doing an inventory of her available stock. “You're not serious about giving all our juice to that scoundrel are you?”

Of course not. He's partnered up with Barron on some kind of crazy expedition. You know Barron and his obsession with antiques. I'll sell all this to them, not him. Barron's good for it and we don't lose a cent.”
“Listen to me sweetie I have to tell you something, You know we vampires have our big dark secret law and I broke that law when I showed you my true nature. You kept my crime between us and soon you became part of our world. I'm responsible for you and I can't let anything happen to you. Understand?”
“Don't worry I know the rules.”
“Good, and you know that we vamps have powers, we're fast, strong, bullet proof and we can read minds and stuff like that.”
“And your super hearing let's not forget about that.”
Oleander grinned. “Yes among other things but what you don't know is what I need to tell you now. I'll be breaking another law so you must promise not to repeat where you learned this.”
“Promise.”
“Vamps are not the only supernaturals out there...”
“Oh please I know about the werewolves, saw one change once. He got too drunk at Blood Moon and security booted him out.”
“Not just them there are witches and lots of others, but what I'm getting at is some of us can work magic. I mean create spells that can alter reality. That's what Barron's antiques do. He collects enchanted artifacts. Now I snooped around and heard some whispers. He and Bret are up to something really scary so I think I should make the delivery.”
You can certainly come along if you're worried but I'm not afraid.” She was busy loading boxes and did not pause in her work.
“You horny bitch! You can't wait to see him again.”
Marilena's head snapped up. “You don't know what you're babbling about.”
“Bullshit I can smell your pheromones oozing from your pours every time you hear his name.”
Marilena stood trembling with anger. “What is this some kind of jealousy thing?”
“Oh you sad little mouse, you have no clue the shit you're about to step in. Fine I did my part I tried to warn you. Go throw yourself right into his trap.”
“I'm not throwing myself anywhere this is business.”
“Really then why do you have a go-bag packed and ready next to the door?”
Marilena's eyes darted to a black bag on the floor. “That's nothing I just want to... I'm concerned about the cargo... I might need to keep an eye on him... I mean it, the load.” Her eyes exploded with salty tears. “Oh shit what am I doing? It's like he has some kind of power over me.”
“He probably does I warned you about us, we're a tricky bunch. Please stay here and let me go.”
Marilena wiped her face. “No you take over the shop, Jerry will run it until I return. I need to confront the one-eyed devil and see if he is using some kind of power. I'll have Barron to protect me and Andre, I trust them.” 
Oleander hugged her. “Sad little mouse, I tried, I really tried.”

***

“Another world!” The Captain ran a hand over his silver-gray beard. “With Pirates and the like.”

Bret tapped his fingers on the table top. “So are you in or not?”
“But technology and such explain that again, my GPS won't work?”
“No, none of that shit works over there they have other techno stuff. It's different. You navigate with sextant and compass, ships use sails and steam. The humans don't run the show either the overlords do. Vampires, werewolves and sorcerers, there is no hidden underworld. It's as it should be with us in power, not the sheep.”
“It's primitive like in the time of the Vikings?”
“Well not that primitive you'd be surprised at the machines that can run on wind and steam but yeah there is a lot of swashbuckling because of the great sea. Oceanus is mostly water and lots of islands. Each island is ruled by a High Lord Admiral with a navy to protect him from freebooters and scallywags. Trust me it's like nothing you can imagine until you've seen it. Then of course the booty is incredible not to mention the women if you're inclined.”
“Women?”
“Beautiful, young and subservient to their masters. Not like here bossy, independent an demanding.”  
The Captain clenched his fist tight around a thick choke of beard. “I'll be ready with everything you need, and if you're lying to me. I'll hang your heads from my bow and bait my hooks with your balls.”

Coming soon chapters 22 The Catalina Cutlass and 23 Oceanus.

Thank you for reading.

Your humble purveyor Karl Clay Vetter.