Message-ID: <45912asstr$1071807005@assm.asstr-mirror.org> X-Original-Message-ID: <20031219023557.34313.qmail@web60403.mail.yahoo.com> From: Lazlo Zalezac <lzalezac@yahoo.com> X-ASSTR-Original-Date: Thu, 18 Dec 2003 18:35:57 -0800 (PST) Subject: {ASSM} JC: Oliver Brown 05/05 (mf slow) Date: Thu, 18 Dec 2003 23:10:05 -0500 Path: assm.asstr-mirror.org!not-for-mail Approved: <assm@asstr-mirror.org> Newsgroups: alt.sex.stories.moderated,alt.sex.stories Followup-To: alt.sex.stories.d X-Archived-At: <URL:http://assm.asstr-mirror.org/Year2003/45912> X-Moderator-Contact: ASSTR ASSM moderation <story-ckought69@hotmail.com> X-Story-Submission: <ckought69@hotmail.com> X-Moderator-ID: hecate, hoisingr All, This is the last chapter of Oliver Brown. It takes place on the same day as Chapter 23 in John Carter Part III. I hope it explains a few things that were missing in John Carter. May the Gods and Goddesses watch over you and yours. Lazlo Zalezac __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Protect your identity with Yahoo! Mail AddressGuard http://antispam.yahoo.com/whatsnewfree <1st attachment, "Oliver05.txt" begin> DISCLAIMER: This is a work of fiction. If you are offended by sexually explicit material or are under the age of 18, stop reading now. This material cannot be reproduced for commercial purposes without the consent of the author. JC: Oliver Brown By Lazlo Zalezac Copyright (C) Lazlo Zalezac, 2003 Chapter 5 Oliver stood at the eastern end of the clearing as John Carter went through the ritual of sanctifying it as a grove for the Gods and Goddesses. He had been shocked as the meteors buried themselves in the corners of the glade. While others may have seen a dust and debris flying around the glade, he had seen a blinding white light. When the lightening had struck John Carter, he had seen to the other side as John joined his loved ones that had passed before. When everything was finished, Oliver stood there numbly. Slowly coming to his senses, he looked around the clearing seeing other faces that were just as stunned as his. As one, the faces all turned to look at him. He swallowed in nervousness at being the center of attention. The Druids walked into the clearing, forming groups according to those they served. They all faced north waiting for him. He walked across the clearing to the northern end, his mind on auto-pilot, letting his feet carry him to his destination. The only thought that ran through his mind was the doubt that any mere mortal could live up to the standard established by John Carter. He faced the groups as they formally greeted him as the Grand Druid. His mind returned to a minimum level of functionality as the Druids made their way individually to greet him. When he greeted Ed, he was surprised to see that the man glowed brighter ever. There were no dark spots over his heart. He asked Ed to stay at the college and was disappointed to learn that he would be leaving in nine months. There was so much for him to learn about running the College now that it was his. The absence of Ed would make his life that much tougher. After everyone broke up into individual groups and started to head towards the college, he was faced with the reporter that had covered the ceremony. The reporter immediately shoved a microphone in his face asking, "Would you please tell our viewers how you feel about the events that took place today, Mr. Brown?" Oliver's mind snapped into focus. A very serious expression came on his face as he replied, "Today, the world has lost a great man. John Carter has transformed the world more than any other man in history. His discovery of a cold fusion process was as significant as the original discovery of fire. He brought the community of Druids out from hiding and into the light. He saved thousands of lives through his efforts. He changed the economy of the world to one that is significantly more stable than ever in history." The reporter asked, "So how does it feel to be the new Grand Druid?" "I serve the Gods and Goddesses to the best of my ability. That they have chosen me for this role is a great honor and a huge responsibility. I shall contribute as I can, but I am just one man among many." "You are very humble." "Humble? No, I wouldn't say humble. I am realistic about my abilities." Oliver nodded as he answered. He added, "I know my worth as a human being is no greater than anyone else." The reporter glanced over at the students returning to the college. He said, "So tell me about the Druid College." Oliver said, "The Druid College is one of the greatest legacies of John Carter. Most of these students will contribute to the world more than you can imagine. The young adults that shall be graduating this year are among the brightest and most driven people that I have ever met. These young people have studied a vast variety of subjects and are experts in their specialty areas. They have insights that you wouldn't believe." The reporter said, "It sounds like you are really impressed." Oliver said, "Those of us who became Druids in the past shall be considered slow and stupid in comparison to those who become Druids in the future." The reporter looked surprised at that assessment. He said, "The existing Druids are considered some of the most valued advisors available for businesses and government." "We will pale in comparison to the new crop of Druids." Oliver looked at the reporter for a second. He added, "I am lucky to have inherited from John Carter this great place of learning. I will be credited with training them, but what I do in the future shall be due to the foresight of one man, John Carter." The reporter asked, "So what about the current crop of students?" Oliver answered, "We are establishing monthly sessions where government agencies and businesses may come and interview our graduating classes starting next month. I invite all of those who are interested to call and schedule a session here." "Do you expect them all to get jobs?" Oliver laughed before he replied, "I would be surprised if they didn't get a hundred job offers each." The reporter asked, "So you expect them to get jobs with good salaries?" Oliver looked at the reporter as though he had just asked a very stupid question. He answered, "I expect each of them to find a job that satisfies them. The money is unimportant. I'm sure that some will accept jobs that pay as little as twenty thousand a year even though they may have been offered jobs that pay ten times that much." The reporter asked, "So are you saying that even small companies could hire them?" Oliver replied, "They shall go to the place that needs them most. I can not predict where that will be. Now, if you would be so kind, I have other duties that require my attention." The reporter watched as Oliver turned away and left without further word. He turned to the camera man and asked, "Did you get all of that?" The man smiled and answered, "Sure did." Oliver headed to the college, feeling that it was necessary to visit the instructors as a whole and then each year of students. He didn't know what effect the recent events would have on people, but he had to defuse any possible repercussions. It was the first of his duties to those he led. Still in a state of shock, he entered the administration building to find Catherine waiting for him. She hugged him tightly to lend him some of her strength. He relaxed into her embrace for a moment. She then said, "The instructors are in the conference room waiting for you. The sixth year students are watching over the other students." There were times when he didn't know what he had done to deserve such a woman in his life. This was one of those times. He said, "Thank you. Do you want to go with me or is there something else that you feel you should do?" She answered, "Well, I feel like I should jump your bones, but instead I'll visit the students and see if I can help." Laughing at her preferred action, he watched her leave before heading into the conference room. With as much dignity as he could muster, he moved down the isle and positioned himself behind the podium. He looked across the people gathered there, amazed at the brightness of their glow. He said, "I would like to thank you for coming here. No one could have experienced greater shock at the events of today than I. For now, I want everyone to know that there will be no changes in daily operations here at the college. Unlike most organizations, this one will not undergo any changes because a new person has been put in charge. When we are finished, please go forth and reassure the students. Are there any questions?" He stood in front of the room and waited for a question. One of the Druids stood and asked, "Shall we hold classes according to schedule?" Oliver was about to answer, though better of it, and then asked, "What would you suggest?" The Druid said, "Classes were not held today because it is Midwinter's day. I suggest that we use the rest of they day to deal with the emotional consequences of today's events. We hold classes tomorrow like normal." Oliver looked around the room noticing the large number of people nodding their agreement. A few disagreed. He asked, "Any statement from those who disagree?" One Druid whose job was deeply involved with the first years, stood and said, "It will take more than one day for the earlier years to come to grips with the events. John Carter was a daily part of their lives. I suggest that upper levels resume their schedule, but we give the lower two levels an extra day." He replied, "That is a very good point and an excellent suggestion." Another Druid stood up and said, "Let the final year of students help us with the first years." Oliver nodded and stated, "It is proposed that classes be held tomorrow for all years except for the first two and the last. The last shall help with the first years in dealing with their grief." He looked across the auditorium observing the number of people that were nodding their heads. None were shaking them in disagreement. He said, "So be it. Are there any other questions or suggestions?" Kelly stood up and said, "May I join you in addressing the students? I have first hand experience with dying and they will find what I have to say reassuring." Oliver was amazed at the selflessness of Kelly. She should be with her family sharing in their grief, but she was here to help. He asked, "Would you not be better helping your family? You have children that need comforting." She answered, "The children have talked to the Gods and Goddesses about this day for a long time. It came as no surprise to them and they suffer very little grief. Ed and Ling are helping Leroy and Linda. I can serve better this way." He said, "I accept your kind offer. Anything else?" Everyone shook their heads no. He waited for a moment and then stated, "Please gather the first years and bring them here." The crowd dissipated in their normal chaotic fashion, but in a manner that did not involve any pushing or problems. Kelly made her way to the front of the room and stood beside him. He glanced at her, realizing that she didn't feel like talking at the moment. Rather than say a word, he put an arm around her and hugged her tightly. The kitchen staff came into the room with pots of coffee, soft drinks, and cookies. One of them noticed him watching them and explained, "We thought it might help, sir." It reminded him that he would also have to talk to the staff. He answered, "That is very thoughtful of you and your efforts are appreciated. Thank you very much." The first years entered the room. All of them had turned in their robes and were once again naked. Nudity had become normal for them and they would find that the second year where they wore robes most of the time would be tough, almost confining. He watched with pleasure as he saw that all continued to glow and no new black spots had appeared as a result of the loss of John. He waited for everyone to enter and find a seat. Most stopped by the snacks and grabbed either a coffee or a soda. Very few of them picked up something to eat. He glanced over at Kelly and asked, "Do you want to talk first or should I?" She answered, "I think you should talk first." He turned to the students and looked across the room. It took a few minutes for the room to quiet down as students talked to each other. He finally said, "Hello. I'm Oliver Brown. Today I have been given charge of the Druid College under circumstances that are not of my choosing. We lost a great man today and one that I know each of you knew personally. I grieve for his passing just as strongly as you." Kelly stepped forward and interrupted, "I am Kelly Carter. I was a wife of John Carter. I want to tell you a few things about him that may help you in dealing with his death. John died twice before today. He did not fear death, knowing it for what it really is - a step from this world to the other. I have died and do not fear death. Let me say this, do not feel sorry for the dead. Let us be honest with ourselves and recognize our feelings for what they are. I grieve today because I know that I will never again feel his arms around me or hear him whisper in my ear words of love. I feel sad for myself and my loss. That is natural, but knowing the source of your grief shall allow you to deal with it much easier." She stepped back and looked at Oliver. He stepped forward and said, "When you leave here, your instructors shall be available for you to talk with if you have any problems dealing with the events. Please talk to them, even if you don't have any problems. The sixth year students shall be around in the first year dorm as well. I'm sure you'll recognize them, they'll be wearing clothes." His comment brought nervous laughter from the students and eased a little of the tension in the room. He said, "We want you to come to grips with your feelings. Towards this end, there will be no classes for you tomorrow. Please feel free to relax and talk amongst yourselves. Talk to the instructors and sixth year students. If you feel a need to be alone, take a walk in the woods." He paused for a moment and then said, "I want all of you to understand something before you leave. John Carter was a rare man. It is my belief that he was rewarded by the Gods and Goddesses with a rare opportunity. Each of us was truly blessed with the honor of observing it." Hoping to see the effect of his words, he stopped to look at the students. He asked, "Are there any questions?" A young man stood nervously licking his lips. He asked, "If the Gods or Goddesses choose us, will we have to sacrifice our lives?" Oliver looked at the student for a minute and then over at Kelly. At a loss on how to answer that question, he thought about it for several minutes as the students shuffled nervously. Finally, he said, "I don't know if your service will require that. I do know that most of us live long and healthy lives." Kelly answered, "John choose to act today knowing full well the consequences of his actions. He was prepared and spent last night saying goodbye to us. If your service requests that from you, I believe that you will be given a choice. The Gods and Goddesses are not cruel or capricious. They ask nothing of us that we are not capable of doing or are unwilling to do." The student, with a visible look of relief, sat down. He and the other students were satisfied with the answers they had given. Another student started to stand and then sat down again. Oliver asked, "Did you have a question?" The student shook her head as she said, "I'm sorry, but it was off topic." He was going to skip the question, but thought better of it. He said, "Please ask your question anyway." The student stood and looked nervously around the room. She asked, "You talk with such reverence of your service to the Gods and Goddess. Is it really that great?" Oliver smiled as he glanced at the smile spreading across Kelly's face. He answered, "Yes, it is that great. I have enjoyed every minute of my service, even the scary times were good." Kelly added, "I envy you your first service. I'll remember mine for the rest of my life." The woman smiled and sat down. Oliver asked, "Are there any more questions?" The students sat there looking from one to another. Oliver, taking their silence as a no, said, "Thank you for coming here. I shall be around later. If there is a private question that you have, I'll be glad to answer the best that I can." The students slowly left the room thinking of the words they had heard. The rest of the afternoon was spent with the other classes and finally the staff. He was exhausted by the time that the staff left the conference room. Leaving the room, he was met by Ed. With an unexpected tenderness, Ed said, "We have prepared a little something for you to eat in the president's office. Go there and eat in solitude. You need a some time alone to get your thoughts in order." Oliver wasn't going to argue. He said, "Thanks. I'll go up there now." Entering the office, he looked around before finding the plate with a sandwich on it. He sat down and started eating. The simple act of eating the sandwich took his mind off the events of the day. When he had finished his meal, he sat back wondering about the responsibilities that had been placed upon him and if he were up to the task. He wished that John had briefed him before the events of this morning. He went to the desk and looked at the pair of envelopes on it. One was addressed to him and the other to the Grand Druid. The writing on the one that was addressed to him was clearly John's, but he could not place the writing on the other. He opened the one addressed to him and read it. Dear Oliver, I am writing this to you the night before I am to die. Since you are reading this, it means that you are now the Grand Druid. I must tell you that I was never comfortable with that title. I doubt you'll ever be comfortable with it either. I know that you will do a good job at leading this disorganized mess that we call the Druids. Each one of us is an individual and that is our power. Do not undermine that power. I will give you some advice that another Druid gave me, do as little as possible to change things. The changes shall evolve in their own time and fashion as is best for the organization. It is not our job to control it. I have left a letter that was addressed to the Grand Druid. It had been entrusted to my care by Jed Hart years before I ever became the Grand Druid. After I became the Grand Druid, I wondered if it was addressed to me or my successor. Never quite believing that I was the Grand Druid, I decided that it was for my successor. If it was addressed to me, then I'm sorry that I never read it. Take care of yourself and watch over the school. I am sorry that I never got to know you better. Time was short and there was too much for me to do. When you doubt yourself or others compare you to me, just remember that I wasn't perfect or all that great despite what they may think. I did what I could and I know you will do the same. The Gods and Goddesses shall watch over you and guide you. Of that I have no doubt. Sincerely, John Carter Oliver read the letter twice. The advice within it was very easy to follow. He smiled and looked up at the sky as he said, "John, I shall follow that advice with great dedication. I shall do as little as possible to change things." He looked at the other envelope, knowing full well that Jed Hart was the previous owner of the Sporting Goods Store that Catherine now ran. Carefully opening the envelope, he pulled out the letters that were contained within. They were old and yellowed with age. He laughed as he looked at the salutations. One was to John Carter and one was addressed to whoever might read it. He read the second one first. Dear Sir or Madam, I am Jed Hart. You may or may not know of me. Odds are, you don't know of me and I can accept that. I served the God and that was all the recognition that I need. I write this as the, then de facto, leader of the Druids. Please read the letter to John as it contains all of the advice that I would have given him. The advice is just as valid for you. I imagine that if you are reading this, then you are John Carter's successor (or perhaps not). I truly believe that he will become the Grand Druid. If he did, I seriously doubt that he would open this envelope. He would never accept that he was the Grand Druid. His humility was uncommonly rare. The Sheriff of the town used to refer to us as the Plutonian circus, yet I was always proud of my fellow Druids. They made a difference in the world, each working to make it a better place as befitted their skills. As a successor to my leadership, I hope that you are able to give our rag-tag group a better reputation. One day, we will fulfill our ancient role as recognized advisers to the leaders of men. May the Gods and Goddesses watch over you and protect you from harm. With Blessings, Jed Hart Oliver read the letter wondering how well Jed knew John. He had been correct in his assessment that John wouldn't read it. It was a shame as John had made one of the dreams of Jed come true. He picked up the other letter and started reading. John Carter, I write this believing that you shall become the Grand Druid. If I am wrong, then so bet it. I was not gifted with prophecy. I wish to give you a little advice. I guess the first piece of advice that I would give would be to do as little as possible to change the Druids. Each of us has unique powers and skills. We need the freedom to apply that as we must. If you act to restrict those freedoms, then all will suffer. Always remember our two rules. If it harms none then do it. You must act to protect the weak from the strong. Those two rules are all the guidance you need to make a difference in this world. Guide our Druids according to those rules and all shall be fine. I have one other piece of advice that may contradict your natural inclination. Do not allow the Druids to become too strong. That was our downfall in the past and will cause our downfall in the future. The Gods and Goddesses shall limit the numbers that serve. Do not artificially swell those numbers. Don't make this a religion for the masses. It was never meant to be a religion with services and prayer sessions. There are other Gods and Goddesses that others serve that provide that type of security. Don't challenge their position in the world, for they will wipe us out. May the Gods and Goddess watch over you. Sincerely, Jed Hart Oliver sat back and thought about the letter. He wondered if the Druid College was a way of artificially expanding the membership. Since the college had the potential swelling the ranks, they would have to restrict enrollment. If there was a real need for more than the college graduated, the Gods and the Goddesses would choose them. He also thought about the advice at not antagonizing the other religions. Jed was a wise man and had stated facts that couldn't be denied. He wished that he had known more about the early days of the Druids, but they had been decimated by the Romans and then the early Christian Church. It was hard to believe that the Druids, who had ranged over France, parts of Germany, and the British Isles, could have been so thoroughly eliminated. Written records from the vanquished did not exist. The Druids had kept an oral history and their destruction had meant the loss of that history. He set the letters aside, deciding that all three letters should be displayed to serve the present and the future. Rejuvenated by his temporary period of isolation, he went forth to serve the Gods and Goddesses. His students needed him. It was amazing how quickly it was that he had come to think of them as his students. He left his office to find Catherine was waiting for him outside the door. She smiled as she said, "I was going to go in, but realized that you needed some time alone to gather your thoughts. I guess this is not the jungles of Columbia." He laughed as he replied, "No, if this was the jungles of Columbia I would have a better idea what I was doing." He raised an arm and she moved beneath it. He lowered his arm to encompass her, pleasing both of them with the fit. She bumped a hip against his as a way of getting his attention. She asked, "How are you holding up?" "I'm scared and nervous. This is such an awesome responsibility that I have to wonder if I'm up to it." She smiled up at him and said, "I think that John probably had that thought every day." Ling standing at the door of the apartment for the president said, "Yes, he did." Oliver turned and looked at Ling as she stood comfortably, glowing gently with much of the dark gone from over her heart. He asked, "How's your family holding up?" "They're fine. In fact, they would like to talk to you." He started to bed down to kiss Catherine goodbye, but Ling interrupted, "Bring her with you." They entered the apartment behind Ling as she led them into a formal living room that was clearly meant for entertaining visitors. Kelly, Ed, Leroy, and Linda were waiting for them. Linda and Leroy looked like they had been crying, but had recovered sufficiently to deal with people. Oliver stopped and bowed slightly to all of them. He said, "I'm very sorry for your great loss. My thoughts are with you." Ed said, "We know you are and we appreciate your feelings. I am sorry that you have had this position thrust upon you so suddenly." "I never sought it and I never wanted it." Oliver replied solemnly. He added, "It should have been you that took this position. You are much more qualified than I." Linda looked up at him in surprise. It had been her assumption that Oliver would have been happy to have the position of Grand Druid. Ed replied, "No. My service is limited. Never believe for a moment that you are not qualified." "Thanks, Ed." Kelly interrupted, "We have asked you to come here to clear up some business that must be addressed." "What kind of business?" he asked. He looked around at all of the serious faces. Ling said, "Now that John is not the president of the college, we need to move out of this apartment. Our plans are to return to our home in September. We need a place to stay until then." Catherine said, "Then move out in September." Oliver glanced at Catherine as he said, "You heard the lady. Move out in September." Kelly argued, "But this is your apartment, now." Oliver said, "Look. I need Ed to help me. You have work to do in the infirmary. Ling will start teaching self-defense. I'm sure that Linda and Leroy have things they need to do. Stay here and take your time leaving. Catherine and I need very little in the way of a living place." Ed answered, "Thank you very much. That is really all that we needed to discuss. We expected to have to negotiate for some time to allow us to move out without a major disruption to our service." Oliver lowered his sunglasses and looked at Leroy. The man had a nice glow and few dark spots. The same went for Linda. His gaze returned to Leroy as he remembered some things that he had heard about his father. If he was to lead the Druids, there were some things he needed to know. He asked, "Leroy, could you tell me about your father?" Leroy smiled and said, "Would you like to talk to him yourself? He's visiting us at the moment." Oliver nodded his agreement. The Reverend came into the room at a call from Leroy. The elderly man glowed brightly without a single black spot on his heart. He moved with grace and the kind of confidence possessed by a man that knew his God. Rather than talk in front of an audience, the two men went to Oliver's office where they would have some privacy. Oliver gestured for the man to sit down at the table and then sat in the seat across from the one that he had offered. Taking his seat, Leroy adjusted himself while examining Oliver. He asked, "What can I do for you?" Oliver answered, "I want to understand the connection between your church and the Druids." The Reverend said, "There is no connection." "What do you mean there is no connection? You are one of the major proponents that Christians should not fear the Druids. You even say that they should support us as we serve the good." Leroy's laughter was deep and rolling. He replied, "I see the source of your confusion. I serve my God in the same way that you serve your Gods and Goddesses. My God has tasked me with ending the war between religions." "Which war?" "All of them," replied Leroy. He looked around the room and then whispered, "I am not alone in this quest. There are others that work to the same end. I am only the most visible as no real war exists between Christian and Druid. Others that seek to create peace between Protestant and Catholic in Ireland hide themselves." "Is that not a dangerous thing to do?" In a very serious tone of voice, Leroy replied, "Very dangerous. You start messing with religion and things get tense very quickly. We have lost half our numbers already." "So you are only working to keep peace between us and Christians?" "Not at all. I'm also working for peace among the Middle Eastern religions." Oliver wondered what the future of that endeavor would be. Likely, Leroy would die before there was any sign of a breakthrough there. He shook his head in doubt as he said, "I'm sure that your son worries about you." The Reverend grinned, his white teeth contrasting with his dark skin. He replied, "No. I'm more worried about him." "Why?" Leroy stood up and slapped Oliver on the shoulder in a friendly gesture. He winked and said, "He's around too many Druids. Next thing you know, he's going to be in a group marriage." Oliver sat back and laughed aloud. The laughter came from deep down and continued well after Leroy left. Catherine came into the room as he was wiping his eyes from the laughter. He smiled up at her and said, "I think the day has ended on a good note. Let's go to our apartment and play around for a while." Thus, the torch was handed off from John Carter to Oliver Brown. He eventually married Catherine and she set up a workshop for making the tools needed by the servants of the Gods and Goddesses that passed through the Carter Grove. She was kept very busy by the large number of students that passed through the Grove, with most of them receiving a service. The service of Oliver Brown was not the kind on which legends would be based. He changed little and kept a low profile. He was content to serve his Gods and Goddesses by preparing the future members of the order for their service. His service was great in that respect. The graduates of the College went forth and did great things, but those are other stories to be told. <1st attachment end> ----- ASSM Moderation System Notice------ Notice: This post has been modified from its original format. The post was sent as an email attachment and has been converted by ASSTR ASSM moderation software. ----- ASSM Moderation System Notice------ -- Pursuant to the Berne Convention, this work is copyright with all rights reserved by its author unless explicitly indicated. +---------------------------------------------------------------------------+ | alt.sex.stories.moderated ------ send stories to: <ckought69@hotmail.com>| | FAQ: <http://assm.asstr-mirror.org/faq.html> Moderators: <story-ckought69@hotmail.com> | +---------------------------------------------------------------------------+ |ASSM Archive at <http://assm.asstr-mirror.org> Hosted by <http://www.asstr-mirror.org> | |Discuss this story and others in alt.sex.stories.d; look for subject {ASSD}| +---------------------------------------------------------------------------+