Chapter 21

Three months had passed, and Jesse and I were heading to Karl’s garage. Fenrir, Ursus, Cetus, and Cobra were coming with us. All the miners who were compatible with the spirits had become members. Jesse was right when he said that having only 35 miners was too low; these men worked in cramped spaces alongside others day in and day out. There had to be more men like us. In the end, we got 52 miners to accept out of the 62 who were compatible. Since we could leave the mine in the hands of the multiple duplicates of the five spirits, Jesse decided we should take a break and go see Karl.

Traveling through the portals was much faster than flying. We reached Karl’s garage in only a few minutes. Karl knew we were coming and had stocked the apartment with everything we wanted. I said "wanted" and not "needed" because the spirits could create anything to clothe and feed us. Not that we needed to eat, but eating was enjoyable, and Karl insisted on supplying us with the best.

Shortly after we settled in, Karl appeared through the same portal, with James in tow. "I thought James had no interest in other men?" Jesse asked.

"I am interested in only one man; my Boss is the one I long for. I would do anything for him."

"Then I guess Cobra read James wrong," I said, looking at Cobra.

"I did say he was only interested in Karl."

"Have you had threesomes, or are you only interested in Karl?"

James looked at me for a long moment. "We’ve had relations with Leo. I’m getting used to the idea of being intimate with some others. You may not know this, but Jesse had me all hot and excited when I first met him. Who wouldn’t get aroused seeing the body he has?"

"It’s good to hear you open up. So, you’re under Leo then?"

"I report to whoever my employer is under. Like I said, my Boss is who I want to be with. Wherever he goes, I go."

"I’ve told him to call me Karl, but he can’t seem to do it. It’s either ‘Boss’ or ‘Mr. Hodgkin.’ One day, I’ll get him to loosen up," Karl said hopefully.

"We’re here for three reasons, actually. First, we wanted to see you and spend some time together, along with James," I began, smiling at Karl. "Second, we’re here to attend a heavy equipment Expo. We need equipment for the ‘Off-Grid or Prepper’ community we’re building."

"That’s right," Jesse added. "We want to ensure we have the tools and machinery to support the community’s self-sustainability."

"And third, we need equipment to monitor both the land and the world," I said.

Karl nodded. "I see, but why the need to monitor the world!?"

"In a few months, we’ll have a habitable cave system in the mine. This will mark a new phase, as we’ll be actively searching for men who are compatible with the spirits. That’s where the monitoring comes in; we’ll need to keep track of potential candidates from all around the world."

Karl’s eyes widened. "Ah, I see now. You need the surveillance to identify and locate these compatible men. I apologize for jumping to conclusions earlier."

"Exactly. On top of that, we’ve received help from two new spirits since we last spoke. They have experience traveling with the five spirits. Omega assured me that if they don’t have a vessel, they can only stay for a few days at a time before returning to their spirit plane to recover what energy they lost."

"I bonded with them, which allows them to stay longer before returning. My bonding with them first, prevents them from forming the same bond Keith has with the five, when he bonded with them" Jesse added.

Karl listened intently. "That’s quite intriguing. It seems your mission has expanded even further with the involvement of these additional spirits."

I smiled, grateful for Karl’s understanding. "Yes, it certainly has. There’s still much to learn and discover along this journey. But for now, we’re here to enjoy some time off and make the most of this equipment Expo. We’ll keep you updated on our progress."

Karl nodded. "I look forward to not only hearing more about your journey but also being involved in it. I’m glad to have you here with us. Other than this news, how is the process going with converting the mine and preparing the soil?"

"We’re receiving enriched soil as quickly as we send the raw materials. The only limitation is digging out the existing tunnels. We send half of the soil up to the park and move the rest into the already enlarged tunnels. Once we have enough members to build the community, that soil will be transferred to the land we purchased to cultivate crops," I explained.

"What is causing the issue with digging the tunnels? You have the mining equipment and some skilled operators," Karl asked.

"That’s true, but the equipment isn’t able to dig the roof of the tunnels quickly. Even if it could go fast enough, the tunnel would still have low ceilings, though we could go deeper in some areas. What we need is more men, which would enable the spirits to split enough to carve through the rock ceiling and send it directly to their plane."

"We’ve discovered that certain individuals provide more emotions and sustenance to the spirits. Some people can feed one spirit, while others may require three or more to nourish a single spirit. Sexual interactions primarily provide power to the spirit world, with some energy transferring to the spirits here. Jesse and I seem to be unique in that respect. I believe there must be others like us out there, but finding them is proving to be a challenge."

As we discussed the happenings at the mine, the spirits prepared dinner for us.

"Dinner is served," Ursus announced.

We chatted more about lighthearted topics, sharing the story of how everything unfolded, mostly for James’s sake. After dinner, we had a great time playing a game of Fill the Hole; it didn’t matter whose hole or which one we were filling. Late into the night, we all curled up on the living room floor, using the spirits’ bodies as our blankets, their warmth enveloping us.

When morning arrived, the room felt fresh, as if the night’s events had never taken place. Karl had planned well when building the apartment. The two bathrooms featured spacious showers, and the wall dividing them could be removed, creating a space large enough for us all to squeeze in. It was still cramped, but not so cramped as to discourage our playful antics as we showered together.

Before Karl left, he invited us to join him in his study.

Jesse and I followed Karl and James back thru the portal. As we entered Jesse exclaimed, "Wow, you have the starting layout of the park model here. It looks amazing, " Both of us were trying to take in all the details at once as we headed over to the model.

"The ideas for the rides were all contributed by the miners, and then we had experienced amusement park builders refine them to ensure they are safe yet exciting. We also had children from the town, as well as some miners’ children, draw their ideas and describe how their rides would work. As you can see, we have two distinct areas for different-aged children."

"The construction of the rides is already underway, and once the materials arrive, the miners who are certified to weld will assemble the less complex rides. Other miners who are heavy equipment operators but not members are currently being trained to operate the cranes. We want everyone to be involved in some aspect of the park."

"I know that planting trees is not a priority right now, but we could procure them and bring them to the land to acclimate and grow larger. It would give the park a more established feel on opening day," Jesse suggested.

"Actually, we could even plant them in the soil that’s currently piling up. Once construction is complete, we can move the trees into position. When it comes to landscaping, you can just tell the contractors that the trees are another contractor’s responsibility," Ursus added.

"I agree. The soil we have is specially designed to enhance the growth of plants, including trees. Just let us know what trees you want, and we can modify the soil accordingly," Cetus offered.

"You guys seem really excited about this project." I remarked.

"Yes, sir. Our world has very little plant life, so seeing plants thrive here is a unique experience for us. The emotions generated by the growth of plants can also be transferred to our plane. Any strong emotion felt by a member can be used by the spirits in the spiritual plane," Fenrir explained.

*****

The Expo turned out to be disappointing. While many companies showcased their latest equipment, few had what we needed. Fenrir, in his human form dressed in a suit and tie, was the only spirit who could pass for a businessman, so he accompanied us. As our frustration grew, Fenrir spoke to every company that had the equipment we desired and exchanged contact information with them, requesting brochures that included pricing and availability.

We had better luck the next day with the surveillance equipment. We visited some unconventional shops and found a man who could build us an internet listening device. This device would scour the entire web-based on the parameters we set and strip any personal information from the targets. It was an expensive purchase, given its illegal nature. The man assured us it would be ready for pickup in a week’s time. To ensure he understood the consequences of crossing us, Ursus and Cetus made sure they intimidated him just a little. We acquired the equipment to connect to the web from another ‘off-label’ shop. As for the computer interface, we found it at a big-box office supply store.

Afterward, I inquired about our remaining funds. "We spent a lot of money today. How much do we still have available?"

"We still have over 10 million available, not including the long-term bonds." Cetus replied.

"Is it because of how we bought the mine and the other properties?"

"Some of it, yes. We’re still involved in market trading, although not as actively as when you lived in your apartment. The internet speeds at the mine are incredibly slow. Luckily, Fenrir has taken over that responsibility since he lives with Karl, and his connections are excellent."

"Well, with the equipment we just bought, things should improve at the mine."

That evening, we returned to Karl’s cabin retreat. Karl greeted us. ‘I see you’re back. Would you care to have dinner with me?’

‘Sure, just me and Jesse. Or can everyone come?’

‘Bring everyone if they want to come, but they’ll need to be in their human forms. We need to keep Nancy in the dark. She insists on serving dinner to all of my friends.’

‘Oh, so we’re all friends now. That’s an excellent cover, Karl. Does Nancy always treat your friends this way?’ Jesse asked.

‘Well, I’ve never invited friends over before. Leo was the only exception. When he first came here, I had to come up with a cover story for him. I told Nancy that I met a group of guys at the gym and that Leo and I hit it off right away. I offered him a job to help me stay in shape since he was a part-time instructor there. The other guys were also instructors, and I became friends with them through Leo. I had already told Nancy that I met you and Jesse before I met Leo. At that time, I mentioned we were working out together, and even though you two are younger, I felt a connection to both of you.’

‘I take it she wants to show her gratitude for befriending her Boss.’ I said. Holding back a chuckle.

‘Yes, she does. There is a feast being prepared here as we speak. Come casually dressed. James has set up the study for the occasion. This way, after she serves, I can get her to leave, and we can have some privacy.’

_ _

‘We’ll be there in a few.’

We walked from the garage apartment to Karl’s front door, and before I could knock, the door swung open.

"Welcome! Karl is waiting in his study. My, what a fine bunch of men you two brought. Please come in," Nancy said, waving us inside.

I introduced each of the four spirits to Nancy. Jesse and I were dressed in casual clothes. Nancy noticed that all the guys looked as though they had just come back from the gym, wearing their work out clothes.

"My, my, now that I can see you better the four of you are bigger than Jesse. Thank heaven I was warned about your appetites," Nancy proclaimed.

"I know the way if you have other things to do."

"Oh, yes, I still need to bring the food over. The table is set, and drinks were brought in by James."

"Miss Nancy, let us help you with the food. We know Karl is hosting dinner in his study. It must be a burden for you to haul everything from the kitchen," Cetus offered.

"If you insist, it will keep the food warm if we can bring it all over in one go," Nancy accepted.

"Come on, Cobra, you and I should be enough help."

"Hey, I want to help too," Ursus chimed in.

*****

Jesse, Fenrir, and I entered the study. The room had been rearranged to accommodate a large table and ten chairs. The park model had been moved to a corner, leaving enough room to walk around it for those who wanted to see all the different views.

"Well, hello again. Is it just you three? Nancy made way too much food if the others weren’t coming," Karl said.

"No, the others are helping Nancy bring the food here," Jesse replied.

"Good, I dread having to eat leftovers for weeks," Karl said with a smile.

Fenrir walked over to the model, his curiosity piqued. The now intricately detailed model showcased all the rides and attractions of the amusement park, complete with restrooms and three food courts. However, it lacked any models of office spaces. Fenrir noticed the model featured different colored ground surrounding each element—green for grass, yellow for flowers or bushes, and a darker green to signify trees, represented by large round shapes. There were also various shades of blue, with some areas shaped like small boats, showing bodies of water.

‘Master, may I make some improvements to the model?’ Fenrir asked, excitement radiating from him.

‘Let’s wait until after dinner to discuss it with Karl. After all, it is his project,’ I replied, trying to temper Fenrir’s enthusiasm.

Meanwhile, James was setting up a bar by one of the large windows. Jesse couldn’t help but comment on it. "There’s no need for that. Didn’t Karl tell you what the spirits are capable of?"

"Yes, of course he did. But this bar is just for Nancy’s sake. She would give me a hard time if I didn’t set it up for a dinner with guests," James explained.

Just then, Nancy rolled in a cart full of mouth-watering desserts and cheese plates with crackers, followed by Cetus, who’s cart carried covered dishes to keep the food warm. Cobra trailed behind him, bringing in more covered dishes. Finally, Ursus entered, skillfully balancing one large platter in each hand. If it weren’t for the size of his flexed biceps and his over muscle pecs, he could easily pass for a server. One platter held a succulent roasted turkey, while the other showcased two large hams. Both platters were adorned with a variety of vegetables, sauces, and perhaps gravy, thoughtfully placed around the perimeter.

"Please, come and sit before everything gets cold," Nancy urged.

Nancy carefully placed the platters on either end of the table with Ursus’s help. Cetus then pulled out two covered platters and set them beside the meat dishes. He continued with two more platters, arranging them to form a square on the table. Cobra mirrored his actions with smaller covered trays, ensuring that all the food was properly displayed. Already bustling around, Nancy began arranging the various desserts and treats on smaller tables scattered throughout the room.

We all sat, eagerly awaiting Nancy, James, and Cobra to join us at the table. Cobra was the first to take a seat while Nancy began serving the turkey, and James attended to the hams. "Please help yourselves to the sides. I hope you enjoy my cooking. And try both types of ham, as I prepared them differently," Nancy said, handing a platter of sliced turkey to Cetus. Simultaneously, James passed a platter of ham slices to Karl, then handed another platter of a different ham to Ursus. It was only after everyone had food within reach that Nancy and James finally sat down.

Karl led us in, saying grace, and we all bowed our heads. ‘Follow along; this is a tradition for anyone who believes in a higher power,’ I thought to the spirits.

As we ate, compliments of Nancy’s culinary skills filled the air. James had placed open bottles of wine on the table, allowing each of us to refill our glasses as needed. The dinner lasted for an hour, during which Nancy started clearing the table with James’s help. "You all stay right here. I’ll take care of the dishes in the kitchen. Enjoy yourselves and have a good time. Goodnight," she said as she left.

We expressed our gratitude for the delicious meal as Nancy exited the study and James closed the door behind her. "She’s just as dedicated to you as James," I remarked to Karl.

"She truly is. Despite the short notice, she called in some extra help to prepare all of this. She supervised every single detail to ensure everything was just right, all for a simple dinner," Karl sighed. "She works tirelessly. I’ve tried to convince her to retire, but she insists on working until her last breath. She finds happiness in cooking and cleaning here."

"Have you considered hiring an assistant for her? Perhaps someone she could train—like a young lady who aspires to follow in her footsteps but lacks experience. You might reach out to orphanages to find potential candidates who are just coming of age. Once a girl turns eighteen, she typically has to fend for herself and could benefit from an opportunity like this. I’m confident you could find a suitable young woman for Nancy to mentor," I suggested.

Karl responded, his words tinged with hope. "I’ve offered help before, but she always declines. However, your suggestion might work. I can talk to her soon and offer her the chance to work with someone she chooses. After training one, we could help her find employment and then get another. Thanks for the idea."

Jesse chimed in, "If this works, you can do the same for James. This way, when you both move to the Oasis, Nancy will always have a driver and handyman available. Of course, James will need to vet the candidates to avoid any issues with the ladies while you’re away."

I proposed another option. "Another solution could be to have Leo become a guard here while you’re at the Oasis."

Leo interjected, "There’s a better way, Master."

"Okay, let’s hear it."

Leo explained, "There are two solutions. First, we can have a member present whenever Karl and James are in the Oasis. It would be the same man each time, so the ladies would feel more at ease. Second, we can monitor the new driver by sending power to him. This would be a short-term measure, needing to be done every two months. If the boy is just learning the trade, he might be here for about a year before we find someone new to take his place. Sending power to him during that time wouldn’t harm him."

Karl then made his decision. "I like the idea of helping young men in need of a skill. If Nancy agrees to take on a trainee, I’ll have James look for someone to assist him as well."