Saved By A Goddess: Gifts free porn video

This story takes place immediately following the events found in the story Saved By A Goddess. It is highly recommended you read it before starting this one. Saved By A Goddess, Gifts By: StefB Edited by Sylvan Goddess and LorasPa (Thank you both so very much) My mind was racing as I walked outside to enjoy the peace and quiet offered by the massive front porch of the rural cabin my wife I were temporarily sharing. I looked over the quiet lodge while sipping a cup of gourmet coffee I made from the supplies available in the deluxe kitchen. Inhaling the crisp mountain air caused me to begrudgingly admit to myself how much I missed this aspect of the area in which I grew up. It had been an eventful couple of weeks to say the least and as I looked down at the pink striped modal slip and matching kimono robe that did little to hide the ample curves underneath, I had many doubts I would ever learn to deal with the repercussions. In some ways if felt like a lifetime ago I was a man named Tyler Dawson but in others it seemed like only yesterday I became Callista Zoyra. Tyler had it rough growing up in a house where his father killed his mother and treated Ty as his own personal slave/punching bag. His father also tried to emasculate Ty at every turn since he was so small and androgynous. His father achieved it by making Ty wear his mother's old clothes while doing what his father deemed woman's work. As I search the memories for Cali, which my mother guarantees are real, my father was still an evil man who molested me late at night. In my new past, my half brothers tried to keep him from having as many opportunities to abuse me. Cali does not carry quite the anger Ty did but she does have her share. Best as I can tell, Cali is a spunky little woman. Only five foot one and maybe one hundred or so pounds with prisms for eyes and fiery red hair who can fight with the best of them and did so often when she was young. I was still in the process of discovering who Cali is, I mean, who I am. Instinct still carries me to Tyler's part of the mind... With his best friend Ryan Crews' help, Tyler was able to escape the small town nightmare he grew up in and together they built a new life as two of the most respected stuntmen in Hollywood. Granted most of Tyler's work was as a woman but Ty was determined to better himself and did whatever it took. Which was how he met his wife Danica Zoyra. She was a makeup artist hired to work on a movie Ty and Ryan were working with on a small island close to Greece. Danica Zoyra possessed a beauty unlike any Ty had ever seen. Extremely tall for a woman, at six foot one with long dark hair and piercing violet eyes unlike any Ty had ever seen before. Like his friend Ryan used to say, Dani had curves that made a Ferrari weep with joy. To everyone's amazement Ty and Dani became a couple on that small island and were married less than three months later and are still together, at least at the moment, after some seven years of wedded bliss. I say at the moment because things have changed recently... By accident I literally fell into a member of an immortal race of men who was attacking a woman that looked so much like my wife that I placed myself between him and the woman to save her. A fight ensued where I managed to kill him but not before I sustained injuries that ,without the woman's help, I would have never survived. She informed me she was the goddess Zaria and I later found out she was also my mother in law. Zaria offered me a chance to live, she said I only had to say yes and I could go back to my wife who I love dearly. She explained there would be changes and I would lose some things but at the same time gain others. A life lesson learned there... Always read the fine print. If something seems too good to be true, it usually is. My life will never be the same. Ty no longer exists, in fact to everyone but Dani and I he never existed. He was replaced by Cali, a very short and most might say, very attractive woman who looked far younger than her twenty-eight years. In the brief time since I became a woman, my best friend Ryan died in my arms, my wife was almost killed, a man I once considered a friend attempted to rape me and any respect I had ever gained from my coworkers was gone. My boss and mentor, Aaron Brachman, no longer trusted my knowledge. Every other person I worked with totally dismissed the fact I knew anything at all. Try as I might, nobody would listen to my concerns prior to the accident on set that claimed Ryan and injured my wife along with many others. With the exception of Ryan's passing, Dani's easy dismissal of my changes led to more mental and emotional turmoil than everything else combined. She was like a roller coaster. One minute she would be so loving and supportive but the next, she treated me as an indentured servant and totally rejected my feelings without a thought. Granted she has been doing better since I tried to kill myself but I still had my doubts that she was a changed woman. I started to tear up again at the thought and sighed as I poured myself another cup of coffee. Because I knew she had to be sore from the accident and it was still very early AND I wanted to be alone, I decided to let Dani sleep as long as she needed. Aaron paid for the luxury cabin as an apology for not believing me when I tried to prevent the accident that killed my best friend. Dani told me he felt terrible about everything. I desperately wanted to believe her and I knew deep down I could possibly forgive him for his role leading up to Ryan's death but I was not sure if I could ever forget. I was still reeling from everything that happened but meeting my niece Kaley was refreshing and life affirming. The little girl taught me life could still be fun. She also taught me that love could be unconditional because I loved that little girl, who looked just like a young version of Cali, so much it hurt. I also learned I could still be strong by watching my sister in law Trish struggle for the sake of her daughter and husband. Without knowing she was doing it, she helped me see life from a different perspective. There are worst things in life than being turned into a woman. In fact, being a woman was starting to be better than I expected. My mind went immediately to my mother. The woman who twice devoted her life to me and how she spent her second chance at life making sure I knew love. I felt ashamed I had given up so easily when I realized it would be selfish to waste her sacrifice. Knowing she was in my heart, I projected a mental hug while I said, "I'm sorry Mama, I love you." I delved deeper into my female memories and realized that Cali is far more confident and self-assured than Ty ever was. I had no doubt that was due to Mama's influence on my brothers who always worked hard to build up my self-esteem instead of tearing it down at every turn. I thought about my father and how he was finally going to receive justice for killing my mother. I was told too much time had passed for him to be charged for his abuse of me growing up. I might have been upset about that information but if what Mama said were true, he would face something much worse than a jury very soon. Since she was never far from my thoughts, Dani entered my mind. Yesterday I had already forgiven her for her initial disregard of my feelings concerning my transformation. I also forgave her for dismissing my concerns prior to the accident that led to the death of my best friend but this morning my anger and hurt over the incident was returning stronger than before. I could not really explain it but I felt new sense of betrayal regarding her and had no idea why. I immediately felt guilty over the fun I had the day before and could not believe I allowed myself to even momentarily forget what happened to my dearest friend. I knew I would never truly get over Ryan's senseless passing. The rational side of my mind tried to convince me I had done all I could do to prevent it but the irrational side; the part of me who loved and missed my friend more than anything, tried to tell me I could have done more. I could not help but wonder if his death was more my fault than I even realized before. Before I agreed to allow Dani's mother, the Goddess Zaria, to save me, she said I would have to make sacrifices. Did I sacrifice my best friend to save myself? Just the thought of that had me shaking uncontrollably as my tears overflowed in buckets. Ryan had been the one constant in my turbulent life. No matter what, I always knew Ryan had my back. I thought I had lost him right after I changed but in true Ryan form, he fought the new memories implanted in his mind. He came to me only three days ago to tell me he remembered both of my lives and he would help me through my changes. It's hard to explain the joy of having him completely back in my life as he always had been. Sadly, that would no longer be the case because of my selfishness to see Dani again. The sight of a Sheriff's SUV brought me from my thoughts. It seemed way too early for a social call. I wiped my eyes and tightened the sash on my robe as I stepped off the porch to see Ryan's father park next to the charcoal gray Mini Cooper Aaron had rented for me as an apology for being attacked by the studio approved doctor. "Hi Mr. Crews, what brings you out here at this hour?" I asked as the large older gentleman stepped out of the beefed up SUV. He walked over and gave me a hug. "Sorry for bothering you so early Cali but I needed to talk to you." I led him up the steps. "No problem, would you like some coffee?" He nodded and I flipped over the extra cup I had brought out in case Dani woke up sooner than I expected. "How are you and Mrs. Crews holding up?" I asked as I filled his cup. He added some cream and sugar to his coffee. I smiled when it occurred to me that he liked his Java the same way his son did. Mr. Crews looked at me sadly and wiped a stray tear from my cheek with his thumb. "About as well as you are if I had to venture a guess." I started to cry all over again. "I'm so sorry it happened. It's all my fault. I've been wracking my brain, trying to figure out what else I could have done to prevent it." Mr. Crews took my hand in his. "Stop it Cali. Mr. Brachman showed me a tape from the meeting. I know you did everything possible. It could have been much worse if not for your recommendations." I stared at him dumbfounded. "What do you mean? Why is there a tape? What recommendations? They completely ignored everything I said." He shook his head. "Apparently he records all conference calls to cover his butt. Aaron didn't ignore you. After you left the meeting, he tried to kill the stunt but everyone else refused. He did insist that as many of your safety precautions be placed on the site as possible. The injuries could have been much worse if not for that. The only fault Aaron Brachman made in this is doubting you in the first place, but as soon as he realized his mistake he fought hard to correct it." I sat silently for a moment as I realized Aaron really did go to bat for me. His actions might not have saved my friend but it did save others. "Wow, I had no idea but if I had done more..." I said quietly. Mr. Crews moved his chair closer and pulled me into a hug. "You did everything within your power. I don't know of anyone else that could have done more. They had six different cameras recording the area so I saw the raw footage of the accident; it was amazing how you saved your partner and her coworker as well as the injured stuntman. I'm sure at least two, possibly three more would have died that day if not for you." He then sighed sadly, as he tightened his embrace. "They recorded Ryan's last moments on film. I could not hear what was said but I saw it all and want to thank you for being with him. I know how much you two meant to each other and I also know you tried absolutely everything to save him. You can't blame yourself for any of this." I did not believe a word he said but nodded to help him feel better as I wiped away the fresh tears that were starting to fall. He made no attempt to release me as he continued. "I hate to add to your misery but I thought you needed to know that your father bonded out about an hour ago. You need to be careful while you are in town. There are some members of his church that are not entirely stable and they have it in for you. I have filed a protective order on your behalf but you know how he is." I sighed. "When it rains it pours." He nodded as he started to stand. "We decided to hold his visitation Friday night at six and the service will be Saturday at noon so that his friends from California can attend. I sent a mass email from his phone with all the information, but if you can think of anybody else out there that needs to know; please feel free to invite them. If you need anything do not hesitate to call, day or night." I could almost feel Ryan standing behind me pushing to ask his father an important question. I finally gave in as I turned to him but I was not sure how to phrase my question so as not to offend him. "Have you called Evan? I know she and Ryan were still close." Mr. Crews' eyes started to dampen as a look of shame crossed his already sorrowful face. "No, I don't know how to find him or what to say if I did. I said some terrible things to him; I mean her, a long time ago. She's the only child my wife and I have left. If I could go back in time to change things I would, but I am afraid it's too late. I was a terrible father to him. Shit, I mean her." My heart broke for the man who was the only positive adult male role model from Ty's youth. I stood to hug him. "As long as you both have a breath left in your bodies, it's never too late. If you have Ryan's phone, look for Evie in the contacts. She just got a message from her brother's phone that he is dead. She needs to talk to somebody. If you don't want to call I'll be happy to do it, but she deserves to know." He nodded knowingly. "I saw that number and wondered if that was him, I mean her. I'll call her when I get back to the office. It's what a father should do, she has to be hurting and in shock right now." He then tightened his embrace so hard I was having a hard time breathing. "Thank you Cali. I hope you know my wife and I have always considered you part of the family. When I talk of my son I also talk of my daughter, I talk of you. We are just as proud of your accomplishments as we were Ryan's." My damn tears started up again as I leaned up to kiss his cheek. "I love you too." He seemed pleased but embarrassed by my show of affection and shuffled his feet gruffly. "Yeah, so I think I said all I came out here to say so I need to go. Thanks for the coffee." I tried to not to laugh and thankfully succeeded. "Thank you for coming out here. If I can do anything for either of you please let me know." While watching Ryan's father drive away I grabbed my phone to call my brother Thomas and let him know Daddy was out on bond. He agreed to stay at Trish's apartment for the time being in order to keep his family safe. After ending my call, I needed my wife's comfort but my residual anger kept me from stepping foot inside. I moved over to the porch swing and pulled my knees to my chest as I released all the sorrow I felt inside. Chapter Two "Are you okay?" Dani asked as she walked outside and wrapped her arms around me. I shook my head and hugged her tightly. She tried to turn me to face her but I held my place. "What's wrong?" I buried my head in her chest. "We can talk later. Just hold me now." Dani leaned down to kiss me on the top of my head as she held me quietly and allowed my tears to flow. As had been the case the last few days, a few minutes of crying in Dani?s arms did wonders for my mood. I was no longer as mad at her as I was earlier and the pain of losing Ryan had eased greatly. "You want to talk about it?" Dani asked after I calmed down. She listened intently as I told her everything Ryan's father told me. While I was talking, I also shared with her my thoughts from before. She did not interrupt me at any point, she allowed me to put everything from my mind into words. I could not believe how much lighter my load felt after I finished. "Thank you," Dani said earnestly after a few moments. I turned to her puzzled. "Why are you thanking me? It should be the other way around." Dani shook her head before resting her forehead on mine. "For loving and trusting me enough to share about everything you are feeling. This is a heavy load to bear and too much to carry alone. I am happy to share it with you. Together we can get through anything." I stared at her a moment before I asked the question that was bothering me so much I kept it closely guarded. "I did not share everything. The sacrifice your mother talked about me making, was Ryan that sacrifice? If it is then I want to give this back right now." Dani?s mouth dropped in astonishment. "No baby, Mother does not work like that. Is that what you have been thinking?" I pulled my knees to my chest again and buried my head in them. "She said I would lose some things and gain others. I still believe that had I not changed Ryan would be alive." Dani did not respond and I looked up to see why and realized we were no longer on the porch of the cabin. We were sitting on a marble floor before a grand throne in an exquisite white marble room. Zaria rose from her throne. "Callista dear, I understand you have concerns?" I nodded. "Yes Mother I do." She glided across the floor to take my hands in hers to lift me up. "I already know what is bothering you and I assure you that your friend was never part of our deal. Nobody was supposed to perish in the accident. I have my people trying find out what happened and why. You must not shoulder this blame." I immediately sensed she was not telling me everything but do I dare confront her about it? It was my best friend?s life that was taken so I decided yes. "What are you leaving out Mother?" Zaria?s violet eyes widened in surprise. "How did you know that?" I shrugged. "I believe it to be one of your gifts. I can sense when someone is being less that truthful." She nodded and appeared deep in thought. "Very interesting and very powerful to sense that in me." Her focus then returned. "I have reason to believe an otherworldly force played a hand in this." I stared at her dumbfounded for a moment before it occurred to me. "A Thetan did this in retaliation?" Zaria sighed. "That is my thought yes, but we think they want to harm me, not you. We believe they were aiming for Danica as a way to lure me out but you arrived before their plan succeeded." "So it was my fault. Had I not killed Adorious they would have not done anything." I said matter of factly. The goddess shook her head. "No child. That horrible race is solely to blame. If Adorious had not attacked me and then you, he would still be alive today. You gave him a chance to leave but he refused. I give you my word I will find the one responsible and make him regret his actions." I filled with rage at the thought the Thetans had tried to kill my wife and were successful with Ryan. "Thank you Mother. If I can be of assistance in your search please let me know. I would love nothing more than to take vengeance on those responsible for this." Her smile was glorious as she looked down at me. "Not yet Callista, you still have much to learn about yourself but when the time is right I will call on you." Her words did little to ease the pain of losing my friend but I no longer felt the unbearable weight of responsibility. "What can I do to speed up the process?" I asked, eager to face those who turned my life upside down. Zaria frowned slightly. "Calm down young one. A little anger is good motivation but too much will eat your soul. Learn to accept your new fate. Embrace the woman you are and everything else will follow." She lifted my chin so I could look into her eyes. "Burn the grasp your past holds because you can never move forward while looking back. Learn forgiveness, because when you hold a grudge you are only harming yourself. Yearn to be better, because you have never been one who was content with remaining stagnant. Earn the gifts you have received, because once you have gained full understanding of who you are now, you will be capable of great thing. All those pale in importance to my last piece of wisdom, discern your new place in this life. When you chose the path you feel this life will take you, so much good will come of it." Her look took on an even more serious edge. "This journey will not be easy at times but it will be rewarding on many levels. You must remember that in addition to all I have told you that you must also take time to enjoy the second chance you have been given. Stop and smell the flowers as your kind likes to say. If you can do those things you will go far." I smiled as I took in her advice. "Thank you Mother." She smiled as she released me. "You are most welcome child. I will help when I can. Now I must send you back alone. It is imperative that I speak to my daughter privately. I will send her back when I am done." As soon as Callista disappeared, Zaria turned toward her daughter. "Tread lightly Danica." Dani was taken aback by her mother?s words. "What have I done?" Zaria sighed as she relaxed in her seat on the massive marble throne. She was far less formal when not in the presence of her subjects. "You are manipulating Callista?s feelings. You are suppressing her emotions and not allowing her the chance to properly mourn. Because of that you are holding back her ability to move forward." Dani became defensive. "You have not seen her Mother. She is in such pain that I cannot bear it. It breaks my heart to watch the person I love hurt like this knowing I can help. I ache for her and if I can ease that pain why should I not? Are our gifts not supposed to be used for good?" Zaria leaned forward. "That is not how humans work. There is a process of grieving they must go through and you are prolonging her pain. I know you are trying to help but you are hurting her more in the end. Part of the reason she was so upset when you found her this morning is because all the emotions you held back released at once and overwhelmed her." "Callista is strong yet you continue to underestimate her. Allow her to grieve unless she asks you otherwise. I believe she is already starting to sense something is wrong. If you do not stop interfering, and she discovers what you have done, she will never forgive you." Dani dropped her head in shame. "I had not thought of it like that Mother. Thank you for your wisdom. May I ask why you did not allow her to see Ryan while she was here? I know his words would do more to ease her guilt than anything you or I could ever say." Zaria sat solemnly silent for a moment and Dani turned to leave thinking she had overstepped her bounds but Zaria stopped her. "Wait, there is more but Callista must not know. I see no choice but to tell you that Ryan?s soul did not cross over and we have reason to believe they are either trying to recruit him as a common or are holding him in the hopes that you will come to save your friend. If Callista were to even suspect this she would foolishly rush into a trap to save him." Stunned by what she was hearing she slowly turned around. "Recruit Ryan? Why? He?s one of the most open minded and loving men I know. He would never agree to be their Common. Commons are hideous and disgusting mindless beings made for servitude and mayhem, we must save him before he becomes the next Grendel." Zaria frowned. "We are searching for him as we speak. Your friend is strong and he is close to you. I do not believe they know of Callista yet but if they are able to break him, they soon will. Be ever vigilant daughter and I will be watching to ensure your safety." In a very uncharacteristic move on Dani?s part, she rushed to her mother and gave her a hug. "Thank you Mother. I love you." Startled but not displeased by her daughter?s actions, Zaria returned her embrace awkwardly. "And I you Danica." --------- While waiting for my wife to return I busied myself in the kitchen making breakfast. While I readied the dough for biscuits, I decided that if I were going to be able to avenge Ryan I would have to embrace the life I now had. The quicker I adapted, the sooner I could join the fight. I may not be happy with my wife but I still loved her more than anything and I would be damned if I would let anyone harm her. Dani appeared just as I removed the biscuits from the oven. "Nice visit?" I asked as she poured herself a cup of coffee. She sat her coffee down before reaching for the cup in my hand and sitting it on the granite countertop next to hers. I could tell Dani was severely troubled as she wrapped her arms around my waist from behind. She held me tighter than usual while resting her head on mine. "I wouldn?t go that far but it ended much better than my usual trips home." I spun in her arms and saw the sadness in her eyes. "What?s wrong? Worried about the Thetans?" Dani sighed sadly. "A little, but that is not what is bothering me. I have a confession to make and I am afraid it will upset you further." I led her to a stool in front of the breakfast bar and sat beside her. "What is it?" She hesitantly looked at me with tremendous fear in her beautiful lavender eyes before she took a deep breath. "One of my gifts is the ability to suppress emotions." My brows pushed together as I tried to understand why telling me this was so important. "There must be a reason you are telling me this." She nodded. "I can take someone's pain or grief away." I stared at her emotionless as it slowly became clear why I was able to forget about everything while we went out. "And you used that gift on me." Tears started streaming down her cheeks. "Yes. You were hurting so much and I couldn?t stand to see you in pain. I did not realize it only delayed the ache instead of eliminating it. The reason you were crying so hard this morning was because of what I did and I am so sorry. I?ll never do it again." I should have been angry but I was not. I was hurt. I was betrayed. I needed time to process this. I jumped off the stool and headed toward the door. "Breakfast is on the stove, help yourself. I?m going for a walk." "Please talk to me. I was only trying to help. I love you," Dani cried as she reached for my arm. The anger I was not feeling only a moment ago suddenly engulfed my entire body. For the first time ever, her touch was not desired. The disgust I felt from her contact caused me to spin away so fast it shocked both of us. "Don?t touch me," I snarled. "Don?t talk to me, don?t help me like that again, and for damn sure don?t try to use our love as an excuse for your actions. I'm sick of every time you do something I don't like it's because you claim to love me so damn much. I can?t believe you tried to manipulate me after everything I told you. You still think I am nothing more than a weak little girl who you can mold to your will instead of the grown man that would have never tolerated being treated this way." I stood just inside the back door. "You need to learn to either stand by my side or stay the hell out of the way. This pushing your will on me bullshit is never going to happen again." I rushed out the back door and up the hill behind the cabin. I continued walking through a wooded area until I came upon a clearing beneath tall cliff. Something about the area struck me as familiar. I was standing on a very large slab of flat rock and noticed it had recently been disturbed. The scratches across the rock from something being drug on it helped me realize this was where I fell the night my life changed forever. I surveyed the area before searching for an entrance to the area I knew was beneath my feet. I desired to see that cavern. I had to know it really existed. I have lost so much because of my changes that I coveted a reminder of what happened that fateful night. I needed to assure myself that I had done the right thing. If I relived the circumstances, knowing the costs, would I still have reacted the same way? I noticed a small stream and remembered the cavern possessed a stone bath fed from somewhere. On a hunch I started following the path of flowing water. Before long in disappeared into the side of the same bluff I had jumped off of, only about five hundred yards from where I had originally been supposed to land. There was a small crack in the side large enough for either version of me to fit through, but I was not entirely sure a man of any significant size could. I followed the water deeper and deeper as the path continued downward with many crooks and curves. After about thirty minutes I entered the large open cavern. It surprised me I could see but there was a soft phosphorescent glow emanating from what appeared to be thousands of cracks running along the stone walls and ceiling. Everything else was as I remembered, minus any effects of the life changing battle that took place. I cupped my hands and bent over to get a drink from the stream before I sat on the edge of the bath. My mind was reeling. How could my own wife do that to me? Did she think I was so weak that I could not handle everything? Of course, she thought that. She carried me in from the woods after I tried to kill myself. Maybe I need her to take control. Maybe I am as weak as she believes me to be? I barely held it together carrying the burdens of one life, how can I handle it now that my mind has two sets of horrific memories? Still? She should not control me like I am some pet she needs to properly train. Why did I actually take the time to have fun yesterday? There are far more pressing issues and it was a slap to Ryan?s memory for her to make me forget my hurt for him over such a simple thing. "Burn the grasp your past holds. Learn forgiveness. Yearn to be better. Earn the gifts you have been given and most importantly, take time to enjoy the little things so you can discern your new place in this life." I looked around as I heard Zaria?s voice echo in my ears. "Mother? Where are you?" I asked aloud. The statuesque goddess appeared before me. "Danica loves you and was only trying to help. She did not, nor does she now think you weak. It was never her desire to control you when she used her gift. She was worried and only sought to ease your pain the best way she knew, even if only for a brief time. If the situation were reversed would you not have done the same for her?" I started to cry as her words ripped through my heart. "I had not considered that." Zaria nodded knowingly. "Give her the benefit of the doubt. She is trying her best to understand and help you cope with your new emotions. She cannot treat you the same as before because honestly, you are not the same as before. She is also experiencing new emotions herself and needs you as much as you need her." She placed both hands on either side of my face. "Her gift can be beneficial as it is not healthy to carry so much pain all the time. Allow her to give you a break occasionally so you may recharge." I leaned on my toes to kiss my mother in law?s cheek. "Thank you Mother. I believe I owe my wife an apology." Stunned, Zaria gently caressed where I showed my affection. "You are quite welcome you loving child. If you were not bound to my daughter, I might try to keep you for myself. I can finally see why she feels so strongly for you." My head was filled with questions but, as before, I did not feel worthy of asking them. Once again Zaria recognized my reticence. "You may ask me anything." I turned to look up into her eyes. "Why were you here? It seems odd to me that my mother in law just happens to be right below my feet." She laughed lightly. "That's a name I never expected to be called. Danica is your wife in the eyes of more than human law so maybe I should be you mother in the highest order." She managed to make me giggle. "Yes Mother in the Highest Order." She shook her head while still laughing. "Allow us to continue with you calling me Mother." I nodded. "Yes Mother but you are evading my question." She sighed sadly. "I was in this place due to the proximity to my youngest child. I may not have been the best Mother but I do love my daughter. I was wondering who you were and why she would abandon the life I had given her. Tyler Dawson was but a small human male who looked more like a woman and my daughter had her choice of many strapping men waiting to do as she requested. I had been watching the two of you and came to this place so I could calm the tide of emotion rising within me before returning to my realm. I must say, prior to our meeting, I could not understand her reasoning." I really thought Zaria had done everything possible to emasculate me before I stepped foot in this cave but I could not have been more wrong. In a few words she managed to find the last vestiges of masculinity and crush them into a fine powder. Now I knew where Dani got it from. Both women could lift me then slap me down verbally unlike anyone I had ever met. "I arrived to see a wisp of a man who acted more like a servant to my daughter than a husband. I could not fathom why he dressed as a woman to do a job. I could not see the honor in that." I looked up at the woman who so resembled the woman I loved. "Was it really necessary I become a woman? Or was it a punishment for taking your daughter? Is there a way I can become Tyler again now that I have proved myself worthy?" She led us back to the edge of the stone bath and sat beside me. "I never would have changed you into the person you are now without good cause. You can never be male again. It was necessary for you to change because your blood became infected as you crawled through where he bled out." She took my hands in hers. "What you would have become is considered an abomination. When human and Thetan blood intermingle it is never a pretty sight. For whatever reason, the worst of both species emerges in one being and that being is always male. Thetans are a sterile immortal male race who cannot replenish their numbers so they make Commons by introducing their blood to humans." "I could not bear to think that would be the fate of the one human brave enough and strong enough to save me. I was able to slow the process enough to make you female because it is common knowledge among our kind that Thetan blood refuses to bond with that of a female because they believe it would weaken their race." "It was never my intention to make you feel less than what you were. What you have been given has always been intended to be a wondrous gift. I am here now in the hopes of helping you accept what has happened. None of the events of recent have been deliberate to punish you in any way and they most certainly have not been your fault." Zaria leaned down to lightly kiss my forehead. "As a mother, I never imagined anyone could be worthy of my Danica. I misjudged you based on appearances. I should have looked at you as she does every day. Had I looked at your heart I would have known immediately why she fell in love. Many things about you have changed but your heart remains unscathed. That is what Danica loves. That is what she needs. That is what she never wants to change." She pulled back to look me in the eyes again. "That is what makes you so strong." I nodded. "Thank You Mother. I need to go to her. She must be a mess right now." She smiled and urged me to stand. "She is very distraught. Allow me to save you some time." In the blink of an eye I found myself at the back door. I rushed back to the cabin and found Dani in the exact spot I left her. I walked to her side and lifted her gorgeous head from her trembling hands. "I?m so sorry baby. I know you were only trying to take care of me. I was so wrapped up in self pity that I didn?t give you enough credit for trying." She wrapped her arms around me tightly. "I am sorry too. I will never use any gift on you without your permission again. Please do not leave me, I could not take it if you did. I am feeling new things and do not know what to do. I love you so much it hurts." I leaned close to her perfectly full lips that had become even softer than usual from all her tears running across. "I have felt that every day since we met. Now kiss me so we can start making up." Chapter Three After a wondrous make up session in the bedroom and a reheated breakfast, Dani and I went hiking into the mountains. It was refreshing to be alone with her in nature. Our hands never parted the entire time as we laughed about the fun times I shared with my best friend and cried more about his loss. She also shared stories of her time growing up on an island inhabited by an ancient race similar to the Amazons of which her goddess mother was their queen. She explained that her family and others similar to her were not actually Gods and Goddesses just a different evolutionary version of humans who had been around much longer. Dani explained that in most ways they were the same as us but they had learned long ago to use more areas of their brain. She said it was why so many of our legends are filled with people with different gifts. I understood it better when she compared it to the difference between an artist and a construction worker. According to her an artist uses their hands to make magnificent works of art but could not even put together a table from IKEA, even with all the tools available. Whereas a construction worker uses his hands to build spectacular buildings but at best he could only draw a stick figure. She said it was the same with her people. Some could do small things very well whereas others were more versatile and were able to master amazing things. She also said that as humans became more advanced many of her kind, such as herself, abandoned the old ways to enjoy what the human race had become. As a result, her people were slowly dwindling in numbers. Even after I asked, Dani refused to tell or show me her gifts as she said it was not the proper time and could influence the gifts I received. She did promise that as I came into my own I would know everything there is to know. As we walked back toward the cabin, I asked her to suppress my emotion so we could go for a swim without me completely breaking down. We had a minor disagreement after we returned to the cabin. On the way back, I was all for the idea of taking a dip since it was so hot outside but I quickly changed my mind when she handed me a tiny string bikini to wear. "Are you crazy?" I asked as I held up the tiny yellow scraps of cloth. Dani laughed. "Some might say I am, but not about this. You have a great body, might as well show it off." I stared at her dumbfounded. "You?re joking right? I?m not wearing it." Dani quickly put on a matching string bikini except hers was purple and I groaned because I knew she picked it out because it was my favorite color for her to wear since it matched her exquisite eyes. I was getting hot and bothered looking at her six foot one inch golden skinned body that was mostly left unexposed. I still was not used to getting excited in places I did not have that long ago. The kicker was when she pulled the hair tie from her long dark hair and shook her head to allow her dark brown hair to flow free. I was caught in a puddle of desire at that moment with no idea how to react. "That?s not playing fair." I pouted as I crossed my arms under my breasts. She quickly gathered me in her arms and playfully bit my extended bottom lip. "What have I told you about pouting? I am playing fair. I wear this because I know you like it. The least you can do is wear that because you know I like it." I sighed in defeat. "Fine but you have to tie all the strings." My wife?s eyes were hungry as she stared at me while I undressed. "So long as I get to UNtie them when we get back." I giggled as she helped me into the skimpy swimsuit. "I thought that was already a given." The large pool was full of people taking advantage of the respite from the heat the water gave them when we arrived. The men stared as Dani and I made our way to two open loungers together near the deep end. I laughed as every eye around the pool watched as she removed her wrap before she sat down. "Your turn." Dani said to me after I made no attempt to take off my cover. I knew I had to do this. In order to have the courage, I momentarily zoned out everyone else and focused on my wife. I slowly lifted my beach dress over my head as if I were doing a striptease before I removed my hair clip and shook my head to allow my hair to fall free in the same manner as she did earlier. Dani?s eyes were wide and filled with desire as she focused on me. Her expression quickly changed to anger then amusement when I heard a splash behind me. "What did I miss?" I asked as I sat down in the second lounger. Dani shook her head with a frown. "Maybe your wearing that wasn?t such a great idea." I raised my brows and rolled my eyes simultaneously as I started to apply sunscreen. Unlike my wife, who had otherworldly skin and never needed lotion, I would turn into a crispy, freckled mess without it. "I tried to tell you that but nooo, you insisted. This was entirely your idea. I knew I?d look silly but I let you talk me into it." She shook her head. "Believe me Baby you look anything but silly. That man who fell in the pool did so because he was so focused on you that he did not pay attention to where he was going." My mouth dropped open in amazement as I started applying lotion to my legs. "He did not." Dani nodded as she scanned the area growing more agitated by the second. "I do not know what I was thinking. They are staring at you like you are a piece of meat." I giggled as I handed her the bottle and rolled on my stomach. "Get my back please. I don?t see why you are so upset. I've been dealing with this for years. At least the guys aren?t looking at you like ?How the heck did that little guy get her??" "Nobody thought that. I do not want to hear you say such things again.? She replied as she ran her hands over my lower back. I said nothing because I knew how guys thought about me being with Dani because they told me often when she was not around. ?How did you handle people staring at me? I do not like it when they look at you that way." She asked as she started on my back. I moaned softly as she started rubbing my shoulders. "I remembered our vows and I trusted you completely." I turned and dropped my sunglasses enough that she could see my eyes. "I still trust you completely." Her smile was glorious and her mesmerizing eyes glistened as leaned forward to kiss me. I pulled myself up to meet her lips before she stopped herself, realizing others were staring. She resumed her seat with a pout. "I?ll be glad when we can go home so we can be ourselves." I felt her pain as I dropped my head across my folded arms. "Me too Baby, me too." We did not last long at the pool because as soon as we returned to our loungers after taking a quick dip there were four men waiting with towels for us. It did not surprise me to see Dani turn on her charm to accept, she always had a flirtatious personality. I was not bothered since she was a mistress at harmless flirtations. She continued until she saw me duplicate her actions with the two guys who were talking to me. I did not enjoy what I was doing but felt it was necessary to fit in since she was doing the same. I started to worry as she shrugged the towels off to grab the ones we brought from the cabin before she handed my wrap to me explaining we needed to go. I had to run to keep up which was hard to do since my legs were so much shorter than hers and she marched with a quick, determined gait. I almost laughed at the irony of her getting upset by me copying how she acts around men. "I was just following your lead Baby. Why are you so upset? Did I do something wrong?" Dani started crying as soon as we reached the porch. "Is that what it is like for you when I talk to men?" Her outburst caught me by surprise and I no longer found an ounce of amusement in our situation. I led her to a chair and sat her down before climbing in her lap. "What do you mean?" "The times I?m friendly with men. Does it bother you?" I shook my head. "Not really, it bothered me when Jesse did it because I felt disrespected, not because I thought you would leave me. It bothered me more when you acted that way with women because I knew that was your preference before we met." She appeared confused. "Why didn?t men make you jealous? It?s driving me crazy to think, with the changes to your body that your preference will follow." I hugged her tightly. "Sweetheart let?s be honest. With your beauty, if you wanted a man you never would have gone out on that first date with me. The only reason you agreed to go out with me was that I was small and androgynous. The only reason you fell for me was that I took care of you." I started to giggle. "The fact I had a built in dildo was only icing on the cake." My attempt to cheer her up failed miserably as she started to sob into my shoulder. "Did you really think I was that shallow? I fell for you because you are smart, caring, compassionate and never content with your place in life. You possess more heart than anyone I ever met. You were always striving to improve and in turn pushed me to be a better person. The fact that I thought you were perfect physically and possessed the most beautiful eyes I had ever seen was my icing on the cake." She lifted her head so we were eye to eye. "I have lived many years and you are the first and only person to ever hold my heart. You are the first real relationship I ever had and I gave up living in my mother?s realm for you. I had no idea I was making so many mistakes but please do not give up on me. I?ll do better by you I swear." I leaned in to kiss her. "I?m not going anywhere and to set your mind at ease. Neither Ty nor I have ever been attracted to men. The fact nobody in my hometown was surprised by you should help set your mind at ease about that." Dani finally smiled. "Yes, that is a very strong clue is it not? I love the way your friends have described you. It is quite colorful." I laughed as I stood and grabbed her hand. "You gotta love the South. We have a way with words unlike anybody else. Let?s go take a shower to wash off the chlorine then make dinner. You can help me make lasagna." Dani hugged me again after she reached my side. "I love you so much. Thank you." "I love you too." Chapter Four Dani and I spent most of the next day alone in the cabin reconnecting. I refused to let her suppress my emotions and in spite of my crying spells or maybe because of them, we were slowly becoming closer than ever. She was so much more loving and attentive than I had ever known her to be. Once again, we shared many stories of Ryan but we also talked about the danger we were facing because of the Thetans. We decided it would be best to be prepared so we made a quick trip to the town?s only hardware store to buy what was needed so that I could reinforce our stilettos so they could be used as a weapon in case of a possible attack. We also each placed a small spike in each of our purses just to be sure. The day of Ryan's visitation, I was quietly nervous. Dani helped me with my black hose. Showing me how to properly gather them at the feet before sliding them up my legs. She gave my shoulders a reassuring squeeze after she zipped up the back of the black sheath dress she had picked out for me. She kissed the back of my neck after fastening the pearls I had received in the box of mementos left to me by my mother. My four-inch spike heels did little to help me gain any height next to my wife since she was wearing her three-inch versions with her matching black dress. By the time we arrived outside the funeral home her silent strength gave me the power to walk inside. She promised she was not suppressing anything. I was glad I had her hand to hold because I seriously doubt I could have walked in without it. I hated this place. I had only been here once before and it was when we had to bury my mother after my father had murdered her and gotten away with it. The memory of him keeping me by his side and digging his fingers into my arm anytime it appeared I might cry became fresh in my mind. I leaned into Dani's side for support and rubbed the same spot my father dug into my arm as we approached the casket. I found some small relief in knowing that it was open. Ryan always took pride in his appearance and I pictured him smiling from above with the knowledge that the ladies would get to look at him one last time. I could not believe the person who had been my best friend throughout most of my life was actually gone. He looked like he was sleeping. I kept praying he would open up his playful eyes while wearing his mischievous grin and tell me I just fell for the best practical joke ever. I placed my hand on Ryan's cheek and my tears fell furiously when I felt the coldness of his lifeless shell. I leaned in to give a last kiss to his chilled cheek. It did not seem real, my heart could not accept this was my best friend but my head overrode all doubts I held. "At least the accident didn't damage your pretty face, it should give the ladies something to look at while they are here. I love you brother. Thank you for always being there. I'd have never made it without you." I whispered before I returned to Dani's arms. We approached Ryan's parents and both hugged me warmly. It was strangely soothing to be with the two others that would miss him as much as me. I tried to walk away to an inconspicuous corner of the room but Ryan's mother was having none of it. She held my hand tightly. "You are just as much his family as his father and I. You knew him better than anyone and it makes me feels closer to my son to have you near." I leaned to Ryan's father. "Did you get a hold of Evie?" He nodded sadly. "Yes but I don't know if she's coming. I told her she was more than welcome." I sat silently as a steady stream of people flowed through the building. Many that Ryan and I went to school with, as well as mutual friends from California stopped to offer their condolences but try as I might; I was not feeling very sociable. Any mention of my best friend's name caused more tears to fall. I could spot the members of my father's church immediately from the heated whispers and disapproving stares they gave me. I chose to ignore them since it was not the time or place for confrontations. After the visitation was over and we were in the car, I looked over at Dani. "I don't know how I'm going to make it tomorrow." She gripped my hand tightly. "We'll make it together." The following day was painful emotionally and it was made even worse by the fact my father and his 'girlfriend' Daphne arrived shortly after the family started receiving visitors. I excused myself as soon as I saw them getting close to the front. Mr. Crews gave me a questioning look, wondering why I was walking away but nodded knowingly when he saw my reason approaching. Dani was by my side as we turned the corner and were almost run over by Dave and Ivan rushing in the door. I glared at the pair before I stepped to the side and kept walking. Dave reached for my arm. "Please Cali wait. I need to apologize." I spun around quickly. "No you don't Dave. The person you need to apologize to is lying in the other room. You might also want to explain to his parents why it was worth their only son's life for you to prove to everyone that you knew so much more than me." I turned to the director. "I hope you got that massive final shot you so desperately wanted because I?d hate to think all this happened for nothing." I paused, "Oh wait, it did happen for nothing more than the fact that your bloated ego thought bigger was better." Dave started to speak again until I moved inches from him in an offensive posture. When I did his mouth closed into a grim line. I shifted my foot, ready to plant my spiked heel into his flesh. ?You were going to speak Dave? Please, by all means do. I want to hear you give me an explanation as to why Daniel and Gregorio are still in the hospital, why my wife almost died and most importantly why my best friend is DEAD. Yes Dave, please enlighten me.? Dani lifted me from behind and started carrying me away before I caused more of a scene. She tried to lead me to a small room away from everyone but I escaped her grasp and stormed back to the Ryan?s parents to make sure I was with the Crews when those two paid their respects. I noticed Aaron walking toward the back of the room when we walked in but I was in no shape to deal with him at the moment. As Dave and Ivan started to approach, I leaned to his father's side while still glaring at them. "Those are the two mostly responsible for the accident." He nodded. "I know; I've seen the tape. They have a surprise waiting for them as soon as they get to the front of the line." I looked up questionably. His smile scared me as he nodded his head for two uniformed deputies to be ready. "Their pride and carelessness killed my boy in my county. They don't call it small town politics for nothing. I have warrants in my pocket for their arrests and the judge was Ryan?s little league coach. I'm also going for the others in that meeting as well. If I can't charge them with anything, I'll sue them for every dime they have. Everyone who didn't listen to you will pay in one way or another." I frowned thinking of Aaron. Mr. Crews patted my hand as if he could read my mind. "Don't worry. You and Mr. Brachman are safe. We have solid proof both of you tried to prevent it." I hugged him tightly as my former coworkers approached. He released me and turned to Dave. "I understand it was your reckless disregard that killed my son." He then looked at Ivan. "And your desire for the perfect ending as well as not heeding the advice of a recognized expert that contributed to the conditions I found on the set." Both stammered for words as Mr. Crews motioned for his deputies to come over. First, he turned to Dave as the deputy cuffed him. "David Elliot Echols, you are under arrest for the reckless manslaughter of Darrel Ryan Crews and the reckless endangerment of three others." Next, he turned to Ivan who was being placed in restraints by the second deputy. "Jeffrey Ivan Taylor, you are also under arrest for the reckless manslaughter of Darrel Ryan Crews and the reckless endangerment of three others." "I'm sure I'll come up with a list of other charges before it comes time to go to trial." Mr. Crews said as he looked at both men. After the men were led away, Mr. Crews turned back to me. "I haven't forgotten about your father. He will get his as soon as this is over. I would do it now but there are too many fellow members of his cult or church or whatever it is. They would cause such a disruption that we?d never be able to properly pay our respects to my son.? He paused contemplatively before adding. "I have nothing against God. I pray to him every day but I seriously have issues with some members of his fan club." Mr. Crews then glanced back at my father with disgust. ?He has a lot of nerve to show his face after all the things he has done. Not to mention everything he said about Ryan after the two of you left town. I have already arranged for a couple of deputies to be waiting at the gravesite after my son is laid to rest. We are going to place all three in general population and let it leak what their crimes are. You and my boy are; I mean were, the pride of this town. You may work behind the scenes but around here, you are a celebrity. Every time a kid talks about making it big, they use you and my son as an example that it can be done. Everyone is proud of what ya?ll accomplished even the most hardened of my criminals asks for updates. Those bastards are going to pay for their actions." I wiped away a tear as I watched him turn his attention back to his wife. It felt good to know that Dave and Ivan would have to face justice in a town where their big city lawyers would have little effect. It was also bittersweet to know that the town was proud of what Ryan and I had accomplished knowing that he would have no more accomplishments to be proud of. I leaned close so only Dani could hear. "Lord love a redneck and heaven help anybody who crosses one." She tried her best not to laugh but failed miserably. I looked around the room and was shocked by the number of people in attendance. I am sure many of the older people were there out of respect for Ryan's parents but I was touched by how many of our friends from the west coast had shown up. What really caught my attention was an extremely tall, thin, auburn haired woman in the back of the room who appeared to be taking my friend's death especially hard. She looked very attractive and vaguely familiar but I could not place her for anything. I wanted to go to her because I truly understood the pain she was feeling. The minister stepping to front to start the service kept me from acting on my thoughts. Hopefully I could find her at the gravesite to talk. The funeral itself was horrible. I had personally witnessed every significant moment in my best friend's life that was highlighted and I was by my best friend's side in almost every picture they showed of him from the time he was nine. Ryan's parents asked me if I wanted to say a few words beforehand but I knew there was no possible way I could do it without breaking down so I politely declined their offer but Dani graciously accepted in my stead. She had the entire room laughing, myself included, when she started off by sharing a couple of very amusing tales that more than adequately summed up the wonderful man who was always quick to offer a helping hand or be the first to crack an inappropriate joke or have all the women falling at his feet. She talked about the man we trusted enough to give a key to our place and kept a room solely for him in case he inevitably broke up with whatever gorgeous woman he was living with at the time and needed to crash til he found a new place. She told of a friend who was always there whenever he was needed and even when he was just wanted. She talked of how we always kept at least a twelve pack of his favorite beer waiting for him in our refrigerator for whenever he inevitably stopped by just to hang out. She spoke of her initially being jealous of him and how I informed her from the beginning that if she wanted to be in my life she would have to accept Ryan. She told of how he worked his way into her heart and that she loved him as the brother she never had. Ryan's mother and father moved me between them as my wife became serious and discussed how much his friendship meant to both of us. The first story she told had me crying uncontrollably as she told of witnessing firsthand the bond Ryan and I shared. She told how listening to a conversation between us was an acquired skill since neither of us ever finished a sentence before the other started in on the next one. She then told of the strength Ryan and I gained from the other and how either of us dropped everything for the other. She eloquently stated how that each of us was an extension of the other and how both us became better people because of the bond we shared. She closed by saying our life would not be as bright now that he was no longer in it. I felt a tremendous amount of pride and love for my wife and how she totally got Ryan and me. Chapter Five If I thought the funeral was horrible, it was a cakewalk compared to what I felt when they lowered my friend into the ground. I wept uncontrollably and Dani had to hold me tightly as they started to cover his coffin with dirt. After everything was said and done, I still was not ready to go. I asked Dani to give me a moment as I walked over to where Ryan?s body had been buried. I knelt next to the head and ran my fingers through the fresh soil. "I?m going to miss you brother. I need you now more than ever. As you already know, your father took care of Dave and Ivan and he is going after the rest but I swear to you that I will find those others who are responsible and make them regret what they have done." I kissed my dirty hand and laid it on the dirt. "I love you." I stood and started to wipe off my hands when a large man with graying red hair stepped in front of me. "Hello Callista, we need to talk." He reached for my neck. "Nice necklace. I wondered what happened to it." I slapped his hand away to block his attempt to grab the jewelry that meant so much to me and glared up at him as I clutched the pearls protectively. "I'm sure you were looking for them along with the countless millions of other things Mama left me." I made sure to emphasize millions when I said it to let him know she left me her money. I stepped forward to show the man of my nightmares that he could no longer intimidate me. " Father, I don't believe you want to hear what I have to say to a man such as yourself." He moved even closer towards me showing his rage. I doubt you could have slipped a sheet of paper between us. "I need to know what sort of voodoo you have done to me. You need to take it off. You should understand a man my age can?t go to jail." I stepped away from Ryan?s grave, although I'm sure he was whooping and hollering for me from wherever he was. "You go girl, it's about damn time. Kick his ass!" I had the feeling he would love to see my father's face planted into the fresh dirt but I was not sure everyone else would feel the same way. I walked toward an open path before turning back to the evil man whose blood ran through my veins. I had often dreamed of this moment but sadly the timing was not right. I looked up at him again with a voice that was amazingly calm. "You will pay for what you have done, one way or another, but right now is neither the time nor the place. I know the concept is difficult for a man such as yourself to understand, but can you show an ounce of respect and leave me alone. Can?t you see today is not about you?" "How dare you disrespect the man who raised you like that?" His girlfriend Daphne sneered. I do not know why I found her words so funny but I started laughing. "Shut the hell up bitch. What do you know about respect or how I was raised? Stay out of this if you know what's good for you." I felt a tingle of warning flow through my body and I leaned back, easily avoiding her hand as it flew toward my face. I grabbed her wrist tightly then kicked her legs out from underneath her. At the same time, I thrust my free hand, palm side up, into her chest and sent her crashing to the ground. I grabbed a handful of her hair to guide her to her feet before I shoved her towards my father whose face was beat red. "You need to put a leash on your pet before I have no choice but to put it down." He removed a handkerchief from his pocket and wiped his brow. "You will listen to me Callista Dawn Dawson." I shook my head. "No I won't and for the record my name is Callista Dawn Zoyra now." I pointed to Dani. "You remember my wife don't you?" He tugged at the collar of his shirt as his face became even redder. "You are a sorry excuse for a woman. Your actions and attitude are better suited for a man." I started laughing again as I remembered how he said something similar to me when I was Ty. "I just can't win with you old man. First I was not man enough and now I'm not enough woman enough. There is no pleasing you father, you are just a sorry excu