There Were Spirits Lurking In The Darkness

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1:05Hello, I'm Wilkins' stories all the time. Glad you are here. Let's get into it. The mellow grocery store music that wafted down from the high ceiling gave James the impression of a barely conscious mariachi band that had gotten odd to kill of the night before. Hell, he half-expected to hear a moon's company in high notes. He pushed his shop and cart a lawn a wide aisle, gathering the essentials to stock up the bunkhouse for another two weeks. He and Yancey had only been in the store for a few minutes and several ladies had very nearly fainted as James strutted past. Small wonder, what with him being decked out in his finest Western shirt Grey felt Stetson, form-fitting 500 ones, gator kicks, and the mod a splash of old spice that sent out a subliminal message. Ladies, the love boat has arrived. Now James hadn't given much thought to romance up till now, but after they'd say skied his knees from old scratch and his gown of nut jobs, Debbie Sunderson started shuring up at the ranch for no reason in particular. And sure as eggs come out of the south end of a north bun chicken, her and Abe fell for each other like a couple of stray much sure in a plate of spaghetti. Hell, lately it seemed like James couldn't turn around

2:06without catching the two of them checking each other for ticks. Not wanting to be a sad, pathetic third wheel, he decided to start trolling. And what better place to cast out his bait than the produce department at El's food and pet supplies, Cady Cornert, El's tire repair and barbershop? It wasn't that he was looking for Miss Wright so much as Miss Wright now and the pond was full, so to speak. The first thing he looked for was a wedding ring, of course. No rain. Check. Smile and nod. Most of her teeth. So far so good. He was about to introduce himself when an intercom crackled and El's distraught voice cut off the Spanish guitar solo. Mrs. Dunham, your son, is added again. James's quarry did in about face and headed for the manager's office. Missed it by that much, James thought. Next. On the other side of the store, Yancey wandered down the aisle that was lined with vitamins, beauty aids, and feminine products that he usually avoided like a den of rattlesnakes. After checking two more items off Emily's shopping list, he smiled and rolled on. He hadn't been this happy since he got his Remington 700 back

3:06from the gunsmith with his new barrel, Trigger, Bipod Base, Rings and Scope. But the only thing still original was the polish took stock and that was only because it was so damp early. A white tail's worst nightmare. He waited patiently while two old laders that had part their cut side by side in the middle of the aisle finished the week's gossip session. When all the world's problems had been solved, they moved on. Spending his cut this way and that like he was leading Dinda Roger across the dance floor, he paid no attention to his fellow shoppers who had begun giving him a wide berth. He was especially unaware of the set of eyes that cut glances of him between the gaps in the boxes of laders and mentionables. The stocking eyes kept pace with him until they reached the end of the aisle. Yancey rounded the corner absolutely, trying to think of something that rhymed with tampons when a cart came around the opposite corner and glided with his, making enough noise to turn heads. Why don't you watch where you're going? You damn Renek. A lady's voice scolded. Road faced. Yancey started to apologize when the woman's laugh had cut his apology short. D-D? He said, still half traumatized.

4:07What are you doing here? The woman stepped around her cart and gave Yancey a tight squeeze. I've been stalking you for the last ten minutes. You see now a little bastard. And what's with this get up? She stepped back and looked him up and down. Do you not own a mirror? Yancey looked down at the holy t-shirt he had absent mind a deeper dawn that morning. The baguess wettenants were probably fall apart in a washing machine and a tart of tennis shoes that looked like they had been used to stomp out a flaming bag of dog shit. Oh well. Yancey smiled bashfully. I guess I've been a little preoccupied. The strikingly beautiful woman that stood before him feigned disgust. O sea and a brown eyes narrowed. You haven't been hitting the bottle, have you? She was starting to sound like a mother-hand. No, mother, I haven't been hitting the bottle. He said, raising his hands passively. I just... He hesitated. He hadn't seen D.D. since the college days, but she'd always been a friend in you he could trust. I just haven't been getting much sleep lately. What's wrong? You got a guilty conscience. Things had been off-shits

5:07and giggles up to that point, but Yancey really could use a sympathetic ear. What's going on with you, Tanner Hill? D.D. asked, sensing that her old friend could use a sympathetic ear. So right, there on aisle seven, between the protein shakes and snack cakes, Yancey told her about their trip to Delas. He'd even from help possessing a body and taking that godforsaken shape and how he blew the damn thing back to where it came from. All's well, that ends well, right? But what Yancey hadn't told anyone, not even his old palski-der, was that just before he pulled the trigger at the beast had looked at him. He must have been 400 yards away, but when it turned his head and looked at him with those white, hot, glowing eyes, he had an overwhelming urge to drop his gun and run away. He felt his fingers squeeze the trigger, but it was almost like it was someone else controlling him. Like a dream? Did he ask? If it was a dream, I haven't woken up yet. To Yancey's surprise, did he wasn't laughing or smirking? Or dial a 911 to send for the paddy wagon? You see, D.D. stands at the door. Yancey stands at the door. All one name was a full-blooded Native American Navajo,

6:07and in her culture there was nothing funny about the spirit world. Yancey's mind wandered back through the years to his first days as a wet behind the years freshman in college. Headstrong and cock-shower, he was ready to take in the world and God helped anyone who tried to stand in his way. By the second week, he was seriously thinking about tucking his tail between his legs and heading back to the farm, where the sheep didn't judge him for his thick, Kentucky accent or his countryside choice of wardrobe. He had signed up for an English lit course which had nothing to do with learning how to run a successful business, his only real reason for being there, and so far it looked like it was going to be one more on the long list of disappointments. Every day another spoiled rich kid would stand up in front of the class, introduce their self, and brag about how rich their parents were. Most of the girls didn't even try to hide the fact that the only reason they were in the class was because it would look good to the beauty-pagent judges. What the hell have I gotten myself into? Yancey wandered. And then, like a ray of sunshine on another wet shitty day, D.D. stands at the door took center stage. The future industry leaders that sat on the front row turned up colors on their matching polo shirts and turned up noses to match,

7:08stopped speculating on stock prices and took notice. The bleach blonde set that had paired up with the great and the good on the front row, showing the professor why they deserved it even though they never cracked a book, closed their legs and listened with interest, as this raven-haired beauty told a story more genuine than any of these self-centered pissheads had a right to hear. She began by telling about her great-great-great-grandfather who had been conscripted to Guidee as a covering across the plains of Arizona and New Mexico. While they camped at Fort Summer, the white men would gamble and drink or sleep through the night while her grand for the stood vigil at the gates of the fort, watching for raven-partis. Just before dawn on a cold winter's night, banned from the neighboring tributat the fort, but her grandfather raised the alarm before the radios reached the gate and the white men along with a handful of Navajo braves fought off the raven party. The garrison of 100 men had sustained less than a dozen casualties and afterwards her grandfather was given a medal of honor, which he later traded for a rifle. A man after my own heart, Yancey thought. He was also given the name stands at the door. Years later, when his children were taken away and forced to go to school, they were assigned given names and stands

8:08that the door was adopted as their surname, and that explained that. She also told about the long walk, in which her ancestors were forced to walk more than 400 miles and held as prisoners at Boss Cradondo in time and camp of almost no water or rations. By the time, they were released and allowed to return to the ancestral land 80% of the tribe had been wiped out. Hey, it's Baba Wallace from 2311 Racing. You know what it feels like forever? Sitting on a plane waiting for takeoff. Good thing, I've got Jamba Casino with daily boost in social casino games on tap. This is a kind of fun that makes time fly. Why not turbocharge your downtime? Play now at JambaCasino.com. Let's Jamba. Sponsored by Jamba Casino. No purchase necessary, VGW Group Void where prohibited by law, 21 plus terms and conditions apply. Dear McDonald's, your breakfast menu? Fire. Tens across the board. I could be happy with anything. Even though I ordered the same thing every time.

9:08Thanks for not judging me. I'll try something new next time. Make. Score a two for five dollar deal and a sausage McMuffin with egg and more. Limited time only, price and participation may vary cannot be combined with any other offer, single item at regular price. The room was silent. Somehow stock market prices and beauty pageants didn't seem quite so important. While D.D. had their undivided attention, she also explained that the Colorado River ran through their territory, providing her tribe with more than enough water to grow their crops, and her people had been prosperous. Then representatives of the white man's new government came with their empty promises and conned the tribal chiefs set of all, but a ditch full of water. She met the eyes of the upper Chris in the front row. A travesty that has not been rectified to this day. Even though Yanceu sat closer to the back of the class, he still felt the coach all run down his spine. In the weeks that followed, Yanceu tried to get to know this amazing woman, but it seemed like just about every jerk, computer nerd, politician's son, and Stona buzzed around her like a swarm of bees

10:08trying to pollinate the first honeysuckle of spring. Yanceu's prospects were looking pretty bleak, until fortune finally decided to take pity on him. You see, one day while Yanceu was passing through one of the commons areas, he noticed a brightly colored poster on the notice board and stopped to read it. Meet and greet this Friday at the Omega Theta Pi House. Starts at seven o'clock. No alcohol. Now, under other circumstances, Yanceu wouldn't even consider going to a party with that alcohol. But on second thought, there might be an off chance he could meet somebody who wasn't as phony as a prostitute smile, and besides, what the hell else did he have to do on a Friday night? When he stepped out of the taxi in front of the Omega Frat House and looked the place over, he almost climbed right back in the cap, telling the driver, home, James, and don't spare the horses. He had been expecting to see a bunch of half-naked kids dancing in the yard, throwing frisbees, smoking questionable cigarettes, and generally ignoring the no alcohol. Rule. He'd at least be in his element if that were the case, but what he found and said made his blood room cold. Two young ladies stood at either sides of the gilded door that looked like it would be right at home

11:08keeping out the riffraff at Buckingham Palace, and the girls themselves looked like wealthy that had gotten lost on their way to one of the king's bowls. Yanceu fastened the top button on his best western shirt and stepped up on the porch. After being given a name tag that read Clancy, even though he had told the girls twice his name was Yanceu, he was shown to the refreshment table and left the fin for himself. He was just laddling out a cup of punch from a crystal-punch bowl that probably cost more than the family farm when he heard a familiar voice ask, careful and hose-derver. Yanceu turned around and almost swallowed his tongue. It was her. He gurgled something that sounded like a low and she smiled. Apparently it's not pronounced towards Derver. It's pronounced hose-derver. She said, sounding like an insect that crawled up her nose. Yanceu, right? Yanceu looked down at his misspelled name tag. They do that if they don't think you were making material. I take that as a compliment. Yanceu felt the tension drain. DD's ability to put people at ease was almost as impressive as her ability to make people check their privilege. That's some beautiful beadwork. Yanceu said,

12:08finally finding his voice. Thanks. A smile deepened as she ran her fingers over the intricate beadwork in the pouch that hung from a leather strap around her neck. This was my father's medicine pouch. A few minutes later, they found themselves on a swing in the backyard telling each of those stores. Yanceu about growing up on a sheep ranch and all the crazy shit he and his best friends get to do to entertain themselves. And DD growing up on a reservation in Bryson, Arizona and all the crazy shit her and her friends did. The BS session would have gone on all night if the sprinklers hadn't kicked on and ran them out. Yanceu made more friends when wrestling season started and eventually found his place in a big world. But he never felt closer to home than when he was with DD. When Yanceu's dad passed away, DD gave him a cardboard box not much bigger than your average classroom textbook and told him not to open until after the funeral. When his dad had been laid to rest, Yanceu got home feeling like a washer that had been ran through the ringer. He sat on the couch fumbling with the box, almost opening it several times before giving into temptation and looking inside. He hadn't shed more than a dozen tears at his dad's funeral.

13:10Not that he wouldn't miss the old man, but it had felt like a dream. Like he'd wake up and be back at college. Now the dam embarrassed, and Yanceu balled like the first time he had watched Old Yeller. He pulled out a medicine pouch that was an exact copy of the one DD had often worn. Running his fingers over the blue diamond collar that had been painstakingly crafted and tiny bees in a flat, brought back fond memories of the Native American beauty that had taken pity on and out of place farm gift from Kentucky. Nothing would have pleased him more than to get in his truck and head back to college and DD. But ready or not, he had a wrench to run. He'd be sure to send her a thank you note as soon as he had time. After Yanceu, DD said for the second time. Yanceu blinked and 20 oddies flashed by. Sorry I was just. I know DD said. Seeing you brings back a few memories too. She held up a small pink and blue box that she had fished out of his cart and said, looks like someone's been up to the devil's business. Yanceu smiled sheepishly, pooched out his belly and rubbed it fondly. I think it might be twins. DD pointed at his hands and said, I'm not seeing any jewelry.

14:11Yanceu inspected his hand before catching her meaning. Oh well, I'm working on it. DD froze him with a little bit felt like a nice cube slide in Dennis' spine. You know you've got a bad habit of letting good things slip away. Yanceu felt the pang of guilt that he hadn't failed in decades. He always meant to stay in touch, but the longer he prided off, the more awkward it got. DD watched him squirm, and then just when he was about ready to fold to his knees and stop begging for forgiveness, she smiled. Do you remember calling me your sister from another mother? Yeah, he nodded. Well, I got two sisters that I haven't spoken to in years. That doesn't mean I don't love them. And just like that, the guilt was gone more or less. DD decided to stay at a conversation towards something less depressing. Do you remember me telling you about my Uncle Sweat Lodge? There. Yanceu nodded. Well, he's got one coming up, and it might be just what you need to help with your bad dreams. Yanceu mulled it over. What were the chances of running into DD after all these years? What were the chances her Uncle was about to do with Sweat Lodge?

15:12And what were the chances that Emily, would let him go tracing off halfway across the country with a maybe baby in the way? Yeah? He nodded again. If what you said was true when you really did send the evil one back to the spirit world, then you're going to need some help. Yeah. Yanceu nodded for a fourth time. My Uncle will know what to do. Yanceu's head couldn't take another nod, so he pulled out his phone and asked her for her number. He punched it in as she gave it to him and then called it. When it rang, he hung up and added her to his contacts. And DD did likewise. Okay, stands at the door. Yanceu said with a playful smirk. Let me know when and where and I'll make it happen. Yanceu was about to say his goodbyes and exited Steve left when James strolled up looking like the pond had frozen over. Then he caught sight of DD and his jaw dropped. Yanceu introduced a two of them and James googled something that sounded like hello. Yep, DD still had it. After Yanceu got the two of them acquainted, he took his exit and left the rest to fate. He went to the bakery and picked up the cake for it. Birthday that was coming up, paid for the lot

16:12and went out to wait in the truck for the Peruvian Casanova. Twenty minutes later, James showed up gurning like keeping it a juiced him for target practice. He bailed in and the first word out of his muffler, hey boss, any chance I can borrow the truck this Saturday. You got something to haul? Yanceu asked and the two of them stared at each other in silence. James was the first to break and they laughed like a pack of hyenas being offered a bowl of vegetable soup. Then James confided, I think I'm in love, dude. Yanceu's left her tapered to a chuckle and he said, you never stood a chance, Hermano. Hell, that woman could make the poke crosses legs. So you're okay with me and her. Yanceu didn't know what James and DD had talked about, but he reassured him that they had never been anything more than friends. Hey, it's Cole Swindell and when I spend 200 days a year rolling down the highway, the bus can start to feel smaller than a guitar case. Everyone wonders how I stay chill while the hours crawl by. Truth is, one good luck spent on Chamba and suddenly the trip was a whole lot shorter. Finding your space even when there isn't much to spare.

17:13Need some chill? Let's Chamba. No purchase necessary. VGW Group Boyd were prohibited by law. 21 plus TNC supply. Sponsored by Chamba Casino. Before you begin your road trip, ask yourself, do you really need five full suitcases? With the 2026 Kia Sportage X Pro's Class Leading Cargo Space, you'll have room for what you need. Find out more at your local Kia dealer today. Keep the adventure going. Kia, movement that inspires. Call 800-334-Q for details. Always drive safely and obey all traffic laws. Comparisons based on second-row legroom and cargo space behind second-row seats in the subcompact SUV class according to Kia's segmentation as of October 2025. Besides, who was he to stand in the way of true love? TNC and the brothers had been helping Skeeter raise a new barn since the last one that had been standing since the Nixon era just about didn't survive the heavies knowful that winter. Even though none of them had much carpentry experience, Skeet figured if some old Amish bloke showed up and looked the thing over, he'd probably say something like, not bad for a bunch of beginners.

18:14Since today was ape's birthday, the tools were put away early and everyone headed up to Skeet's Hossander for what he called barbecue cup hearts. Since law no and Emily started getting together in the kitchen, a barbecues a turn into four-course feast that usually ended in an afternoon siesta. Everyone jokered for position around the picnic table and lawn-a-brought-aids kick out of the back door, with about half a dozen candles all lit up. Everyone started singing happy birthday and whatever Keeta could manage, and she said it done on the table in front of them. Happy birthday, little Bandita was written in gold letters in the black frosting, which didn't make much sense to ape. People had been calling him that all week, but if it was going to be his new nickname, so be it. He had been called a lot worse. He made a wish for world peace, plenty of rain, and a new bottomy string for his guitar and blew out the candles. Since this was a special occasion Skeet's care parts were actually marinated robes and ribats that had been slow cooking all morning. Now, I don't know if you've ever tried carrying on a conversation whilst drawing down a mouthful of robes, but the answer can testify. It ain't easy. Hey Skeet, he mumbled between mouthfuls.

19:15Leave me alone. I'm eating Skeet grilled. After chewing for a minute, Yancey asked, do you think this is chewed up enough to swallow? And opened his mouth, revealing a sliny bowl of red meat. I hope so, Skeet said, looking it over. A ink giving you no Heinleck maneuver. Pure class, Emily said, passing Lano a bowl of salad. Typical behavior for men who peak mentally at 14. Lano said, shooting Skeet a look of distressed. Thinking fast, Yancey said, if you don't like it, you shouldn't cook so good. Skeet agreed, not giving his annoying jaws a moment's rest. Yancey wiped the drool off his chin and cleared his throat. You remember yours a go me telling you about, D? As stands at the door? Skeeter, better known as Mr. Tackle, swallowed and said, you mean the smoking hot girlfriend from college? Friend, Yancey corrected. Emily's ears perked up. Anyway, I read into her the other day in the store. Now Yancey could feel Emily's stable on a hole for his head. Skeet weld his ear of corn as a gesture to continue. Well, her uncle is somehow up, Navajo medicine man,

20:16and he's doing a sweat lodge in a couple of weeks. Skeet soaked a kernel out of his tea twas giving Yancey a no shit look. If these delicate little purr flowers can survive without us for a few days, what do you say we check it out? Skeet wiped the sauce but her dressing beer and slobber off his gob. And what tribe did you say she was from? This was already more interest than Yancey had expected. She's Navajo, Yancey said. I can't remember which cleanse she's from. The Kenyana, James said. When all eyes turned to James, he beat back a shit eating grin and said, that's my girlfriend you're talking about. A little premature Yancey thought. But James was beaming like a four foot LED light bar so Yancey shot him and encouraging thumbs up. Skeet wiped the honey glaze out of his eyebrow thoughtfully and said, as far as I know, the shony of Navajo never had any conflicts. Yancey looked at his old buddy like he had a third nod spurting out of his forehead. What? He didn't know I was part native? Hell, you probably ought to look into your own genealogy, tenderfoot. You might be surprised. Yancey had never given two shits about what kind of seabed

21:18running through his veins, but now that he thought about it, it might be kind of interesting to find out. Skeet mothed through another row of corn, then used his tongue like a squeegee to mop the butter off his face with a stack of napkins within reaching distance. Lana had seen enough. Grabbing a napkin, she squashed his cheeks and turned his head to face her. Hold still, she said as he struggled to get free. She spat on the napkin, which made him struggle all the harder. Take it like a man, Abe said. Yet, dog, don't be such a wimp, James howled. Turn the hose on them, Yancey said. Words he would later regret. Suddenly, the rock's crowd was struck silent. Even Lucy Bell, who had been grazing in the north pasture, watched with interest. That can't be healthy, Yancey said with a sigh of expression. James turned away, pretending to wretch, and airpulled at a room. As for Skeet, well, Skeet have melted like the butter on his chin. Not an ounce of fight left in him. Lana's lit pressed into his and a cacophony of smacks and slurps. As they shared in the ecstasy of barbecue bliss,

22:18Yancey noticed that Emily was practically swinging at the side of the two lovers embroiled in redneck rapture. Seen the opportunity for a little bow, chick a while while thorough, and he grabbed the rib with a healthy slaughtering of sauce and smeared his mouth, then waited for Emily to notice the not-so-subtle invitation. Skeet and Lana ended their romantic interlude by wiping the slobber from each other's faces. Then Skeet turned and noticed the smear of barbecue sauce on his old buddy's face, and the fact that Emily wasn't giving him the time of day. He raised his arms in a cum-get-sun gesture, saying, all right, pal, there is plenty of Skeeter's sauce for everybody. Emily shot Yancey, as I always glitz. Why don't you have Diddy wipe it off? She said frustily. I was just kidding about the girlfriend thing. Skeet said with enough guilt in his voice to brand a rat. That's okay, pal. Yancey said with enough sorrow in his voice to drown two rats. I think I'll go take a cold shower. Skeeter, James, and Abe washed with sympathy as Yancey heaved a discouraging sigh and poached out his bottom lip for the birds to shit on. Lana, sensing there was more going on than some lovers' quarrel, kept his suspicious eye on Emily.

23:19Emily stealthily scooped out a slice of banana cream pie into the palm of her hand. Her eyebrows danced as she sent Lana a devious smile. Oh, all right, she said in a calm before the storm tone. Here's a smooch-free. Yancey turned to her with an expected speed and first a handful of cold whipped cream down the front of her shed. Speaking of guard, she squealed and pushed a pipe into his face. For her part, Lana yanked off Skeet's ball cap and smeared a handful of gravy into his hair. Steve pointed at Yancey laughing despite the stream of gravy running down his own face. Yancey scooped the last few ribs out of the pan and yelled defiantly, oh yeah. Well, at least I ain't covered in barbecue sauce. Then hurled the murky remains. His heart sank with instant regret when Skeeter ducked and Lana didn't. She was engulfed in a brown tsunami. Skeet threw his legs over the bench and stood. He backed away from his beloved who's aquavering with her mucked up face buried in her hands. It was impossible to tell if she was laughing or crying, but Skeet knew a sense of comment was cold for so he cleared his throat and pronounced. Then doll face, he looked like he got shot at her

24:19missing shit and hit. Lana pealed her face away from her hands, drew in a deep breath, and let out a battle cry that would have made her an immo-browd. Fruit fight. She started bustling a handful of potatoes at Yancey to caught him squaring the pus. That even that score. All how broke loose with everyone joining in except James, who being a pacifist by nature rolled up like an armadillo and gave to country and tried to stay at a notice. When things went quiet, he cracked his shell open and looked up. Big mistake. He was surrounded. If anyone asked him what it was like to be shit on by an elephant after today he could describe the experience and find that detail. Spotplop wish repeat. When it dusted settled, it was hard to tell who had gotten the worst of it. Abe had birthed a kick smeared into his usually perfectly slicked back hair. James was pretty much unrecognizable, and the ladies looked like, well, they were still pretty damn sexy in a lady-mad restless order-boy. Nobody noticed when Debbie rounded the corner of the house. Sweet baby Jeepus, she hollered. I didn't hear anything about a tornado touching down around here. Yancey scooped up a handful of cake and chased her across the yard.

25:22It was like watching a 50-year-old toward us chasing a 30-year-old rabbit. Daddy had to slow down to keep it interesting. Too many years and too many beers, old man, Skeet tormented. My end-you-blood pressure, Emily threw in. Finally, Yancey gave up and saunted back to the table, sucking wind like an auctioneer with asthma. I got to get my ass in shape. He admitted, more to himself than to Skeeter, who didn't know whether to keep laughing or feel sorry for the old bastard. In the end, he kept laughing. No one noticed that Lana had disappeared. Now she was back, dragging the garden hos. A blast of cold water hit Skeet Square in the face, but instead of ducking for cover, he raised his hands like a divot parishioner when the pastor asked for a name in. Lana sprayed indiscriminately, washing away the refuse of a well-fought battle before turning the hose on herself. Emily retreated to the house to be the first one in the shower. Yancey, followed by James, Abe, and Skeeter, walked around the house to the sun-drenched front lawn and sprawled out to let the afternoon sun bake then dry. I've still got frosting in my ear, Abe said, pushing it in further with his finger.

26:22I think I've got something out my nose, dude, Jane snorted. I think it's either a carrot or a pea. Well, I've still got gravy dripping down the crack of my ass, Skeet said, trumping everybody. Now it was Yancey's turn. Sure, he had pie in his belly button, mashed potatoes in both ears, and who knows what the hell that was tricking down his pants. But since everyone was waiting to hear what he had to say, he decided there would be no better time to unburn his conscience than now. He sat up and felt something's culture with things shouldn't be squelching. Listen, fella, he said trying to ignore that squishy feeling. I've got something to say. It's better to burn out Skeet Wales, raising a fist, then to fade away. They all joined in, including Yancey. But no, seriously, he said trying to stifle their enthusiasm. There's something that I haven't been totally honest about with y'all. Nothing's were getting serious. James and Abe put away their air guitars and did their best to focus. Let me guess, Skeet said, in almost complete seriousness. When we went to Dallas last year to find Debbie, just before he took the shot that sent Satan back to hell or wherever he disappeared to.

27:23He looked at you like you was staring into your soul. And you've been having nightmares ever since, a finished. Damn dog, I was way off, James laugh. I thought you were going to say you've been trying your girls' lingerie or something. How did he know Yancey asked? Skeeter, not James. You should keep your curtains close. James snickered. Yancey rolled his eyes. I meant about the dreams. I think it's pretty obvious Skeet said with a light-hearted smirk. He told Emily and she wrote an article in the Lexington Post. Yancey narrowed his eyes. Skeet grinned. She told us because she was worried about you shit, biscuit. And he thought Yancey might have had a butt being mad at Emily evaporated. Damn boss. I'd be shooting my britches if our Diablo looked at me, James said. Now mirrors on Noah, Amigo. You've got El Grand Conace in my book. Abe held up his hands like he was holding a couple of bowling balls. My grand, that's why he walks bowl-legged. Skeet said, spreading his legs to emphasize the reference. As good as it made him feel to hear everyone exaggerate the size of his love spuds.

28:25Yancey needed to get the conversation back on track. Listen, Skeet, the reason I want to do this sweat-lodge is because D.D. thinks her uncle might be able to help me control these dreams. I don't think I could take many more nice like I've been having. Don't worry pal, Skeet reassured him. He'll be sleeping like a frackle on a baby's nose in no time. About that time, Deb came strilling down the sidewalk and asked, he'd be strong men gonna let us women clean up that mess all by our little old selves. That was the signal. James and Abe went to help Yancey off the ground. Get away from me, he grilles swiping James' hand away. I ain't that old. Skeet sent Abe to the shop to get a push broom and when he was about halfway across the yard, Lana and Emily stepped up the door and they all quietly followed him to the shop. The lights flickered on and Abe worked to the back wall where the broom hung on the pegboard. When he turned around, a garage door was opening and everyone stood in the door where looking like ice cream wouldn't melt if they had a mouthful. He knew this couldn't be an intervention, seeing as how Skeetor and Yancey both put way more beer than him. He started walking toward them when Skeetor stopped them in his tracks.

29:25Did you park this pile scrap out here? Pointing at something in the middle of the building with a black car cover draped over it. Abe hadn't even noticed a thing on his way in. Now he started suspecting something was up. No boss, he said, holding back a smile. This piece of junk isn't mine. Well, it is now, Skeet said, while Debbie pealed off the sheet. Everyone broke into a second chorus of Happy Birthday. Suddenly Abe knew what it must feel like to be the winning contestant on deal or no deal. Not quite as good as his wish for world peace, but pretty damn close. Just to make sure he wasn't dreaming, he reached out and put his hand in the hood. Yap, it was a no-shit 77-puntiac transom. Black with gold pinstripe, thunder chicken on the hood. Hell, it even had the teetops. Now the little bandito thing made sense. The closer he looked, the more he noticed little flaws. A scratcher, a dent there. He did a quick calculation and decided if he started growing his snops during a right now, it should be growing out just about the same time the restoration was done. The grin on his face might never wear off.

30:26How did you guys know? Skeet pointed at James. You watch that stupid movie every weekend, bro. Debbie threw away the keys and slid into the passenger seat. Abe looked at Skeet for reassurance. See what this bitch will do, Skeet hollered. Abe brought all 185 horses to life and everyone stood back. Jansi gave him the universal signal to light him up. Abe stepped on the lab pedal and the car shot forward like it was being launched off an aircraft carrier. Skeet to clap the hand on Jansi's shoulder, eyes watering in the cloud of carbon monoxide and tyre smoke. She's running a little rich. Never mind that. Jansi hollered, still feeling the exhilaration of Rohorus by being unleashed. Did you see the look on his face? I sit it before and I'll say it again. Partner, life ain't bad. Hey, it's Bubba Wallace from 2311 Racing. You know what it feels like forever? Sitting on a plane waiting for takeoff. Good thing I've got Jamba Casino. With daily boost in social casino games on tap, this is a kind of fun that makes time fly.

31:26Why not turbocharge your downtime? Play now at JambaCasino.com. Let's Jamba. Sponsored by Jamba Casino. No purchase necessary, VGW GroupFord. We're prohibited by law, 21 plus terms and conditions apply. You know what I could really go for right now? Literally anything that comes in a McDonald's carton, wrapper, or bag, or a McDonald's cup. Yes, any of those items you do it. We've got your cravings covered. Now, stop in for the flaky filet of fish, the crispy snack wrap, or a large fries for just $2.99. Limited time only, price and participation may vary. Cannot be combined with any other offer. The next morning, Yancey was up with the chickens, stretching, yawning, farting, and scratching as he crossed the porch and stepped down onto the driveway. It's two miles to Brent Bastion's house, so four miles run trip, he thought. So about on 30 minutes, they're in back. 35, if I stopped to bus. An I.O. later, Yancey came,

32:27dragging his wild cockers back up the driveway, looking like the walking dead. Next day, after the pain meds kicked in, he scrounged his old bench press, free weights, and heavy bag out of the barn, and packed them over to the old Willow tree, which was a workout in itself. By the day of the big trip, Yancey had cut his time to Brent's housing back in half, and the heavy bag knew it had been in a fight. He wasn't down to his old wrestling weight yet, but he was getting there. Of course, the best part was that he couldn't walk in the house without Emily frisking them, a security guard at the White House and him with a suspicious bulge in his pants. D.D. have made all the arrangements, to meet in a five-fingered being that had done bath over the evil one as he put it. Oh yeah, in case you were wondering, D.D. and James had hit it off and were already tighter than three fingers up a bull's ass. FYI, if you ever get a hanker and to find out how tight that is, my advice is to be on the other side of a very strong fence. Skeeter and Lana came pulling up the driveway and Yancey threw a sitcase in the back before he and Emily climbed in the back seat. Since they wouldn't be taking any guns or stabbing utensils on this trip, they decided to take the direct route.

33:27After the airport, James, and don't spare the horses, Yancey ordered, curling his upper lip like he'd been weaned on a pickle. Never being one to shy away from a challenge, Skeet gave it the beans and 20 minutes later they were packed at site terminal 7. Lana's knuckles turned pink again, and she released her death grip on the old shithendle. From now on, I drive in the city she said in a shaky voice. I don't know who deserves the ask it worse, you're the dumbass that gave you a license. License? Skeet looked confused. She went out and congregated on the sidewalk. Taking Emily in his arms, Yancey said, it's not goodbye. My dear, it's just over of war. What's that Skeeter ask? One of those fancy toilets that spray water up on your hoo-ha. While it couldn't be said that Yancey had an all-out for be about flying, given the choice, he'd rather keep his feet on good old terra firma. I think the terra must never fly at so to compensate. He'd down a half a bottle of cold medicine before boarding, and somewhere between Denver and Las Vegas. He started snoring so loud people started looking out the windows and was on fire. As the plane started its descent,

34:27a shitter rolled down the cabin, and then bucked gently as they dropped through the cloud kind of like when a horse blows down from a gallop to a trot. Yancey tempered his breathing in so its docks still. He held the bead of the open-site fore and she's above the target with the butt of the rifle tied against his shoulder. He gently squeezed the trigger. A black plume rose and the earth began to shake. The turning vortex turned and upon itself and was sucked down. Suddenly, they're open beneath his feet. It circles of hell rushed past. He saw the fiery furnace that waited below rushing up to meet him closer or closer. Deep gasp, the realization that it had been just a dream combined with skis reassuring words. Well, you crazy bastard. You almost gave me a hard attack, Comt is nervous and he sat back. Feeling the eyes of the other passengers bearing Denon and him skittest stood and sat with a passable smile. Nothing to worry about, fucks, just a bad dream. When skis had sat down, Yancey leaned closer and said, This better work, by the grace of God. Yancey fought, the plane landed safely. They wandered to the baggage carousel and billed up to the car rental counter. Yancey told the service attendant he had a car reserve. Yancey was sure she would have picked out something nice. The young lady scrolled on her screen. Let me see. Here we are. She looked over the screen and shot him.

35:28Acquired his thank you for saving a planet look. The baby blue press hybrid. What did you say? Skeets nod. Ready to kill the next person who said hybrid. Um, there'd been some kind of mistake. Yancey said, trying to avoid blotchet. We reserve the um. The must-ant skis said. The fastest one you've got. Slightly crystalline. The fact that it was going on Yancey's credit card. You probably ought to go for the extra insurance too. Yancey set his jaw and signed the contract. Rolling past the flag's thus city limit sign. Yancey dropped the hammer and their heads sink into the headrests. Now we're talking hyperspace. Skeeter squealed and Yancey forgot all about the price. They led her a while later. They pulled up to the tourist info center on the outskirts of Bryson. So this is what DD grew up. Yancey thought. It doesn't look that different from Kentucky. Except for all the sagebrush and cactus and the red dirt and butts come to think of it. It didn't look anything like Kentucky. But the desert had a beauty all its own. After getting the barons. They wound their way through the streets of Bryson and eventually found themselves cruising the main drag of a smaller and much older town. Nestled in the burrow of a bigger town. You sure you didn't take a wrong turn. Partner. Skeet asked. Ticking in the sights.

36:28This looks like the set of a Clint East for movie. Yancey thought this sonnet up just about right. Hey. Look. There's the bank. Skeet pointed at a time where they're building on his side. Jackson McIntell. So for strike hotel. Holy shit. Cassie's a lun. Skeet belt jumped at the car. Hullo ring. We gotta go. We gotta go. There'll be time. Yancey promised. Right now we need to find DD. Kids that couldn't have been more than 7 or 8 run out of the bank onto the wood plank sidewalk shooting at each other with their fingers. I'll tell you what. Partner. Skeet said. Trying to hold back is in a seven year old. Two days ain't near long enough to see this place. It rounded the corner to dilapidated water tower and we're back in the 21st century. There it is. And she said. Pulling up averted driveway. A shaggy mud that had to have been at least three breed rolled into one croled out of its doghouse and casually sunk it down the driveway. Barking occasionally like its heart really wasn't in it. An elderly gentleman stepped out onto the porch as Skeetor and Yancey got out of the car. The old dog took the licking skeet's hand like it was covered in gravy. The old man yells something. Obviously in his native language. And the mutts sauntered back up the driveway and found a shady spot to lay down. Welcome to my home. The old man said. Reaching out a hand while Yancey was still several steps away. Yancey closed the distant and shook his hand.

37:29I'm Yancey. Mr. Stans at the door. And Demon's Lear. The old man said. It is a great honour. Yancey stammered. Well, thank you. Skeetor reached out a hand. Saving Yancey. Any more embarrassment. Skeetor bull and Mr. Stans at the door. We have heard a lot about you. Again, the old man said something that sounded cool but was completely beyond their understanding. You are welcome in my home. He clarified. And you can call me Wally. Okay. Wally it is. Skeetor and Wally looked like they might have grabbed their clothes out of the same closet that morning. Western shirts, levies, and cowboy boots. What set them apart was that the old man's silver-streaked hair was pulled back into a braid and a red bandana was pulled down to his eyebrows. Along, two strand turquoise necklace hung around his neck and silver with turquoise and labracers covered his wrists. Yancey studded the man and could see a definite resemblance to his niece. These novel horror had some race, he thought. They packed their bags into the house and were just making themselves comfortable when a man wore it in bold as a set of brass monkey nuts and said, I thought I saw a couple of white guys drive up here. Sounded really similar to someone sitting not a million miles away.

38:30Yancey thought. We preferred the turmpel face, Skeet said, and stood to greet the man who could almost be described as his doppelganger. Skeetor bowling. Duncan big horse. They met in the middle of the living room acting like they had known each other their whole lives. Then Skeetor turned and said, Duncan, I'd like to introduce. Duncan repeated the phrase that Wally had said earlier. The demon slayer. Yancey stood to shake his hand. Yancey, he said. Not the demon slayer, he wanted to say, but he just nodded. Listen, fellas, I got to tell you something. He was getting used to making the speech. All I did was pull the trigger. It ain't like I killed the bastard with my bare hands. Not this time, Duncan said. Wally sprang up and stood between them. We can discuss this later, he said, pushing an elbow into Duncan's roots. There is much to be done before the ceremony. The four men sat on Wally's back porch, drinking sage to you while Skeetor told their new friends about the events leading up to Yancey's dance with the devil. Then Yancey finished the story. So you see, he was about to say that he was no hero when Duncan cut him off.

39:32Your bravery was tested. He paused to let the word sink in. You were compelled to drop your gun. The evil one has the power to make men. Even strong willed men do his bidding. That is why you have been brought to us. Wally said, shaking a crooked finger at both Skeetor and Yancey. What do you? Yancey asked. There are forces at work that the five fingered beings cannot understand. Wally spoke in his native tongue again. He both have a significant part to play. So why us? Skeetor asked. I know of a hillcope who can a sheep herder from Podunk, Kentucky. When you think of almost all religious teachings, who were the ones called on to serve the great spirit, Wally put his hands together. Being close to Mother Earth gives a spiritual strength, as well as physical strength. Damn Skeetor thought. This guy really knows his shit. The lessons turned into more of a BS session until the sun went down and Skeetor and Yancey were shown to a spare bedroom. Before dawn the next morning, two young boys, not much older than the ones they had seen in town the day before, climbed up in the back of Wally's old pickup,

40:32and Skeetor and Yancey followed them down a red dirt road that led out of town. After a couple of miles of getting their skeletons rearranged, the pull off the road and stopped. The climbed out of the car and were about to give each other what the hell are we doing here look into other men, maybe in the mid-twenties, stepped out of a low opening of another man that was all but invisible against the tower and bought in a distance. The younger boys dropped the tailgate, and Skeetor and Yancey pitched and packed four good-sized locks and placed them around a fire pit that they were surprised to see was already burning. These two are our fire tenders, Malcolm and Jacob Topper Hansel. The four men exchanged greetings, and these two, Duncan pointed at the two boys, are learning the old ways even if he kills them. Bold Winsassi. The taller boy extended a hand and said, what's shaking eggs and bacon? The other boy shook Skeetor's hand, saying, nice to Gorgonzola. The words no more than got past the boy's lips when Skeetor up back. What's going on, Cheech and Chan? Apparently this meant the boy's approval. They looked at Yancey expectantly. Yancey returned a deer in the headlights' look, then stammered. I'll give me some skin, Gungardy.

41:33The taller boy, Bold Winsassi's head. Needs work. And the younger boy asked, who's Gungardin? Look it up later, Max, Duncan said. The sun's about to come up. These guys are practicing to be rappers. Yeah, we're going to be famous. Bold Winsassi said as if it was just a matter of time. Max reached through the window of a truck and took out a tom-tom. Everyone stood facing the east, and Wally recited a prayer of thanks as the sun rose out of the horizon. The boys chanted instead he rhythm at the beat of the tom-tom. Prayers were offered to the south, west, and north, and invitations to the holy ones to join them in a day's ceremony. Yancey took off his bafferub as they prepared to enter the sweat lodge. Suddenly, the boys burst into laughter, and Wally stepped up quickly to help Yancey put his roof back on. Duncan unwrapped a towel that covered his midsection, revealing instead of nature's handiwork, a pair of white gin shorts. Wally destroyed, also sporting a pair of shorts. Yancey felt like he needed to sit down before he passed out from embarrassment. Dee Dee told us, he stammered, recalling her humorous expression when she told him that all the ceremonies in the male sweat lodge were done in the nude.

42:36Trust me, she said. No one will look at you twice. She was right. One's was enough. Even Skeeter laughed, even though he didn't have a stitch on under his roof either. Luckily, the brought swimming trunks, just in case the desert he'd got the best of them. Yancey dropped the top on the car, and this crouched the trunks out of their suitcases. She got you good, old man. Skeeter laughed. Now that the sting of embarrassment had worn off, Yancey had to admit it was a good one. Now that everyone was dressed appropriately, Skeeter, Yancey, the tribal elder, and the medicine man ceremoniously entered the sweat lodge. Skeeter, Yancey, and Duncan sat down around the fire pit while one by one Wally was passing seven glowing hot rocks through the opening on a pitchfork. The rocks, that they called ground for those, were placed in the pit. Wally sat down and the entrance was covered, plunging the men into darkness. The cleansing ceremony began. When the first round ended, the entrance was opened and closed four times, and the four men emerged. A Skeeter and Yancey would learn throughout the day, many of the beliefs in the Navajo religion revolved around the number four.

43:38Four worlds, four states of being, four seasons, and so on. By a strange coincidence, Yancey had had an overwhelming urge from a young age to count in fours. Touching things four times, tapping each of his fingers four times. Hell four was even his lucky number. More prayers, more songs. They drank air-fill of water, and it was back in a sweat lodge for round two. The healing ceremony. This time, there were fourteen grandfathers in the fire pit. Water was poured on them in a cloud of seam rose up. Before long, Skeeter and Yancey were getting their sweat on, and Wally's words, combined with the steady rhythm of the Tom-Tom, big informant pictures in Yancey's mind. He had his breast concerned to Wally the day before, that he wouldn't be able to remember the majority of Wally's teachings. Duncan Pass, Jansy some of Mama's fry bread, and said, even crazy ass-white guys can remember Wally's teachings. No Yancey marveled as Wally's words became seas that planted themselves deep in his subconscious. This was the beginning of the journey that Denny's called the Beautyway Path. Another was spied on the two crazy ass-white guys were prepared for the third round.

44:38DED had vaguely alluded to the ceremony. Skeeter and Yancey stilled themselves as they re-entered the sweat lodge for round three, the herding. More ground for those were placed in a pit, and the steamhound in the air as the ceremony began. You know the old saying, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. Well, the same can be said for what happens in the herding ceremony. Suffice it to say, it's definitely a life altering experience. Skeeter and Yancey came out of the lodge feeling both enriched for the experience, and thankful it was behind them. More prayers, more chance, more water. And it was time for the big payoff. Not that the whole experience wasn't worth the trip. The four men entered the sweat lodge in a light-hearted mood juxtaposed to the previous round. Duncan even told how he would go home and call out to his wife and two daughters as he walked through the front door. Damia, daunia, daunia. And they'd all yell back from different places in the house, we're busy. Of course, Skeeter couldn't resist telling Duncan about his three cousins quick, fast, and my rapido. When the crickets started chirping, Skeeter hit him with a punchline. I'm pretty sure my rapido was adopted.

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46:40according to Kia segmentation as of October 2025. Round four, the truth's sweat. These were the life lessons Yancy had been hoping for. These teachings were deeply personal and as the sweat poured from Yancy's body, his mind began to wander. He watched as a fine mist rose off the desert floor. The day was sweltering. The afternoon sun beat down relentlessly. In the distance, an image appeared in the haze. As it slowly came into focus, Yancy's heart raced. This was his animal spirit. It seemed to be standing on a time legs. A bear, his heart beat faster with anticipation. The mist cleared and the image came into focus. Yancy's heart slowed. It was no bear. Two other creatures rose and stood alongside the taller one. His offspring, Yancy deduced. A hand on his shoulder brought him back from the spirit world. This ain't no time for an afternoon nap powered, Skit said. We're out. Duncan and Wally were just getting up. Wait, Yancy said. Wally and Duncan sat back down on the softsheet again. Yancy's pride was screaming at him to take his vision to the grave without telling us all.

47:43But the new, more humble Yancy spoke up. He didn't come all this way just to go home with more questions. I think I saw my animal spirit, he said. Half expecting to be laughed out of the sweat lodge. You either saw your spirit animal or you didn't, Duncan said. Tell us what you saw. Yancy prepared himself for hazing and said full voice. It was a prairie dog. To a surprise, the lodge was silent. Then Duncan asked. Are you sure it wasn't the majestic mountain lion or the mighty bear? No, it was just a prairie dog. Yancy said his embarrassment growing. One big one and a couple of little ones actually. Wally and Duncan smiled with no hint of sarcasm. You have young ones on the way. Wally said just as sure as if he had read it in the newspaper. Twins. Yancy felt a large spin. How you? Wally's laughter drummed out the question. A firefinger being maybe guided by several spirit animals during his lifetime, depending on what he requires help with. If you ever watched a prairie dog interact with its young, you would know that you don't need the size of the mountain lion or the strength of the bear to be a noble bean.

48:44Love patience, understanding and sacrifice. The prairie dog will help you with these things. In a rare moment of solemnity Duncan added, their children will be blessed to have you as their father. Yancy came out of the sweat lodge, feeling reborn. Valve went held out skaters' robe and skits said, mind blown, chicken-bellen. He'd been waiting to use that one. Max handed Yancy his robe and waited expectantly. I'll make a happen cat. Max shook his head and discussed. The men and bows gathered around the outside fire that was starting to die down to finish the ceremony and give thanks to the holy people for their communion. No one noticed at first when the smoke began to billow up on the embers crackled and popped. The purse stopped when the earth began to tremble. Flame suddenly rose up in a shower of sparks spewed out of the pit. This isn't part of the ceremony, Duncan set panic raising in his voice. Everyone struggled to keep their feet under them as they backed away from the fire. Suddenly the pitter-up did in dazzling technicolour as a magnificent pylomino stallion emerged from the flames. Appearsing battle-cry came from the spectral warrior that sat us tried to grate beast.

49:45And the two tenders broken run for the truck waskita and Yancy and the two young boys made for the car. Wally held his walking stick over his head in an effort to distract the warrior's spirit, but neither the powerful raith nor his steed paid him any heed. The warrior's hand rose high and a spear appeared from the ether. In the next instant, the battle-hardened warrior let slip the spear and raise his hand again for not a spear to materialize out of the air. Max and Baldwin bounced in the backseat. Yevors' news pickle juice, one of them shouted. Let her rip tater-chir. The other boy's terror-stricken voice squeaked. The Mustang was already backing away from the terrifying scene at full throttle. Yancy watched over his shoulder, deafly guiding the speed machine onto the road. He threw the car into drive and turned the face forward. His heart damn near jumped out of his chest when he saw six Fitzby is sticking up out of the hood right in front of him. He held back the comment he was about to make, just in case the boys hadn't heard the more colorful side of the English language here. Yancy checked the mirror, but all he could see was the discloud they had churned up. He gave up on trying to avoid the pot holes as the speedometer steadily climbed.

50:46The old part of town was coming up fast. Yancy tried to remember which turns to take to get them through town. Without consciously thinking about it, his brain came up with a plan. Get through town, hit the highway, burn rubber back to flat stuff, and find a police station. After that, they just have to play it by ear. Yancy stabbed the brakes as the first building's blurred past. That way, he pointed to the right apparently with the same idea. Things were starting to look familiar. They hung a left at the hotel, and Yancy was about to put the pedal to the Shelby embossed format when skit hauled. We got company. The warrior spear rode toward them, the stallion at full gallop, another spear at the ready. How the hell did he get in front of us? The question went him-is. He took the center of the road and gunned it. What are we doing? Part. Again, the question went unanswered. With laser focus, he bared town on the Palomino and its rider. A second before, impact the stallion leapt. Time seemed to slow as the magnificent creature sailed over their heads. That's something you don't see every day,

51:46skit thought. Look at. A panic-strieking voice came from the back seat. He spun the wheel, causing the car to slide sideways into the dilapidated water tower. The impact sent Yancy flying over the center console. When Yancy came to, he wondered why he was pulled across skit's lap. He sat up, rubbing the knot on the top of his head, and their eyes met. I told you, Pal, there is enough skider assaults to go around. Skit smiled. That aimed even a little bit funny. Yancy groaned as he maneuvered back into the driver's seat. The rickety scaffold that held up the water tower made a resounding crack and began to collapse. Time to go Eskimo. The voice came from the back seat again. Luckily, the car was still running, so all Yancy had to do a stomp and throttle when they were forced back into their seats. Behind them, the water tower fell into the street and exploded into a million toothpicks. Everyone watched and awes the dust railed. Unreal, banana peel. This time, the voice came from the front seat. Yancy shot Skie of what the fuck look. What? It's a dicting. An instant later,

52:46the warrior burst out of the bedlam at speed. Holy shit, this guy doesn't know when to quit Skit said. That started the wheels turning in Yancy's brain. In a moment of clarity, he spun the wheel and took a hard left. Wrong way, Skie hollered. I've got a plan, Yancy answered. Remembering where the pistol for it came from, he yelled, we've got to go back. A loud thump came from the back of the car. Skeet watched as the spirit, who was now holding the bow, notched another arrow. Get down boys, he ordered. The boys sank low as another arrow slammed into the trunk. Back at the sweat lodge, Wally threw two omfles of pinion and a couple omfles of sage in the fire. White smoke rose into the afternoon sky. Yancy pointed. Good old Wally. They felt something that could almost pass for hope. The engine sounded like it was on life support when they wheeled up to the sweat lodge. It tried behind us. Skeet hollowed as he climbed over the mangled door. Boys, go away in the sweat lodge. Wally instructed. Skeeter, Yancy, stay behind me. No earthly weapon can defeat the evil one,

53:47but we can send it back to the spirit realm of prayer. Sounds good to me. Skeet said, taking his place behind Wally. Yancy walked over to the fire pit and picked up the pitchfork. That won't do you any good. Wally warned. Yancy didn't answer nor did he move. A distant battle cry announced the spirit's approach. This is it. Wally said, raising his staff. Suddenly the fire flayed up as the warrior burst forth from the flames. Turned and stumbled to the ground. Yancy backed away from the skull and hot flames whilst Skeeter helped Wally to his feet. The warrior's spear raised his hand and a spear appeared. This time, the spear was adorned with a single eagle feather. Yancy drew back and held a pitchfork with all his might. His hot sank as the pitchfork passed through the warrior's visage with no more resistance in a shadow. Yancy had no time to react when the warrior threw the spear. He felt his back and lay still with a spear buried deep in his chest. Ah, Skeeter screamed. Oh God no, he felt the energy drain from his body. At that moment, he had no desire to go on. The warrior let go along, high pitch cry.

54:48The overwhelming feeling of dread that had enveloped Skeeter's all turn to rage. Without thinking, he turned and bull rushed the evil son of a bitch. The warrior raised his hand and produced a tomahawk also adorned with a single eagle feather and let it fly. Skeeter's forward momentum stopped. He dropped his knees and then onto his back. With no show of emotion, the warrior dismounted and walked to Yancy's lifeless body. He took the spear and with a quick, almost effortless twist, snapped the spear head off just below the jagged wound. The long wooden shaft dissolved into nothingness. Then the warrior turned and knelt a skeet his side. A quick thrust with the palm of his hand snapped the flint head of the tomahawk, leaving a jagged sword embedded deep in Skeeter's chest. Again, the remains of the weapon disappeared. The warrior stirred and turned. Wally stood between him and his horrors. He raised his hand and smiled as the warrior approached. The warrior raised his hand and spoke in the ancient language of their people. When he was finished, Wally bowed as the warrior passed through him. He turned around as the warrior vanished. Wally hid the boars, helped carry Yancy's then Skeeter's boders into the sweat lodge

55:50and laid them on the soft sheetskins. When the sun sank below the horizon, Wally covered the bodders with woven blankets and started a small fire. A short time later, Duncan pulled up a Mwally's truck, followed by a law enforcement truck. When Duncan and the tribal officer entered the lodge, Wally was sat facing the east, eyes closed and praying softly. The officer knelt at the first man's body and checked repulse them and went to the second man and held his finger on his garotted artery. The officer turned to Duncan and shook his head. Billy told the chimney it is good to see you, Wally said. Now that Wally was done praying, the young officer had about a dozen questions that needed answered. But since Wally was a tribal elder, and the main reason he decided to serve his community in the best way he knew how, he tended his words with respect. Mr. Stan's at the door, it is good to see you. Tell me what happened here. Wally stood the fire and put on another pinion branch before answering. An ancient prophecy has begun. These warriors are being prepared. He pointed at the two bodders. These men are dead, Billy said, expecting at the very least to see a look of surprise.

56:52Wally sang when Smiles struck a nerve in the officer had to remind himself who he was talking to. Mr. Stan's at the door, do you realize you could be arrested for not reporting to murders? There was a stirring sound. Billy almost went for his gun when Skeeter sat up, gasping for air. Where is that son of a bitch? He hollered, ready for round two. They announced he raised upon one elbow, yawning like he had just had the best sleep of his life. These fellas won't believe the dream I just had. He scratched his chest and felt something that hadn't been there before. He sat up and stared over the bridge of his nose. The scar had healed, and now look like the remnant of some childhood accident. I'll skeet. Skeet felt the solid mass under his own scar. Yeah, I don't think that was a dream part. The two boys laid back in the reclined seats of the Mustang, watching shooting stars streak across the night sky until sheer exhaustion overcame them and they drifted off. Things were a lot more chaotic in the sweat lodge. Everyone had questions that they were all asking at once. Wally decided it would be easiest to address all of them at once. He raised a hand and everyone was respectfully closed their squawk boxes.

57:55He began by telling them that there had been no evil spirit, which raised a few eyebrows. The one they battled was actually one of the holy people. Duncan eager to show he was up to speed, said, so the holy people were testing these crazy ass. He decided the jerk had run its course. These two, he corrected, were up for the job. Skeet ran a finger across his scar. Well, I guess we failed that test. Wally smiled like he had good news. The holy people are satisfied with their choice. He pointed. Yancey, you have demonstrated that you are willing to fight against impossible odds. And Skeeter, you have shown that you will sacrifice everything to protect the ones you love. Skeet wrinkled his nose at Yancey and said under his breath in a manly sort of way. Wally went on, the next time he faced the evil one, he will be prepared and the battle will be much harder. Oh great, Yancey said. I came here to get rid of my nightmares, not make them worse. Yancey, Skeeter. The venerable medicine mind shook his finger at both of them. To be chosen by the holy people to protect all of mankind is a great honor.

58:55He must prepare yourselves physically, mentally, emotionally and most of all, spiritually. Share the teachings you have learned here and learned to walk to beautyway path. Enjoy the time you have been given with your families and friends and do not fear the evil one. No matter what happens, we will see each other in the fourth world. After all the next level shit they had seen, they had no problem believing Wally's words. Since Baldwin was already in the driver's seat, Yancey let him drive the car back to Wally's house and they caught a few eyes a shut eye before son-up, over eggs and bacon and coffee black enough to call most men's toes. The officer filled out a police report. Other than the VI and number and description of the car, the rest of the report read like a PG, word house novel. When he was finished, he signed it and passed a de-ancey who read the important part out loud. 2024 Blue and White Shabby Mustang, serial number Yada Yada, was stolen by unknown individuals. It was later found in its present condition so don't flick Mr. Tan Hill any shit. You should have been a poet, Yancey said. A few minutes later, they said their goodbyes to Duncan and Wally and the boys followed them to the car.

59:57Baldwin shook their hands, saying, return to sender, chicken tender. Then Max chimed in, saying, take it easy, mac and cheesy. Skeeter said they'd be listening for them on the radio and the boys beam like they had just won their first Grammy. As the ease down the driveway, Yancey reached out the hand to wave at a perry dog that stood at the side of the road. He think there's crazy ass white guys are going to be okay. Duncan asked, Wally shook his head. I hope so. For all our sakes, they met up with the boys in the driveway and Duncan said, let's go to my place. Demi is making fry bread and mutton chops. And that is the end. Thank you for listening and I will see you in the next one.

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