Sheepland: A Tale of Baaad Intent and Redemption

By G.M. Glenn

The Brother Wolves stalk the night.

A conspiracy lurks in the shadows.

Earnest, a young ram, escapes Meadowbrook Farm in search of Maggie, a ewe who went to the County Fair and then on to the mythical place known as Sheepland. On his way, Earnest comes across Gabriel, the leader of the wild rams that live on Fire Mountain.

Earnest learns of Gabriel’s journey to find Sheepland and his constant battle with the Brother Wolves. But the greatest threat to Gabriel and the flock comes from within. A dire plot threatens to ruin their idyllic life. If successful, their paradise will crumble and life on the farm will change forever.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Ramstate Productions
• Release date: Nov 28, 2017
• ISBN: 9781386701088

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Title Page

By

G.M. Glenn

Copyright Information

Copyright © 2017 by G.M. Glenn

All rights reserved.

Published by Ramstate Productions

Cover Design and Layout Copyright © 2017

Designed by Daring Creative Designs

daringcreativedesigns.com

This book is a work of fiction. All rights reserved. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either products of the author’s imagination or used fictionally. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental. No part of this publication can be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without permission in writing from the author.

NOVEMBER 2017

Table of Contents

Title Page

Copyright Information

About Sheepland

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About the Author

Dedication

About Sheepland

And then the Great Ram opened the pearly-white doors, and from that day onward all sheep were given the right to enter Sheepland — an axiom passed down from sheep to sheep over the generations.

Yes, I have, my friends. It was the most wonderful sight — an eye-witness account from Isaiah.

Smith loves all of you more than anything in the world. He is your father, your protector, your good shepherd. Oh, how lucky you are to be a sheep — Henry the Goat.

- 1 -

The flock grazed contentedly under cloud-drenched skies, feeding on the lush green grass still wet from the morning dew. Earnest, a little white ram who reached maturity a few months ago, only had this one chance to escape. With his heart fluttering like the wings of a hummingbird, he glanced toward Hargrove, one of the sheepdogs who protected the flock.

Go, Earnest. The rotund dog took a step closer to the little ram. His voice lowered. Go now before it’s too late. Run for the woods and never look back. You may still find her, Earnest... if you can reach Sheepland.

Thanks, Hargrove. Earnest bolted for the woods, tears dribbling down his cheeks. He would never see his family and friends again. He hated Smith the Farmer for choosing Maggie, but everyone on the farm knew he would pick her. Fairest of all the ewes, Smith had chosen her to represent Meadowbrook Farm at the County Fair.

Why did she have to win? Now she’s feeding in the fields of Sheepland. I’ll never see her again, unless....

Where are you going? bleated a sheep.

Don’t go, Earnest! another sheep baaed.

Come back, Earnest, come back! cried Tennessee, one of the wise rams of the flock. He was so old that he walked with a limp and his white coat had lost its sheen. If you head into the forest, you’ll be fodder for the Brother Wolves!

Earnest didn’t listen to any of the flock, and he never stopped. Neither Smith the Farmer nor any of the other sheepdogs saw him enter the forest. He rushed into the morning chill of the spring not knowing what he would find. But he had only one thought on his mind.

I must find Sheepland. I have to find Sheepland so I can be with Maggie.

- 2 -

Earnest stepped deeper into the forest and swallowed hard. Tall trees with thick branches and green leaves surrounded him blotting out most of the sun’s rays. The call of birds whispered on the breeze. A faint howl echoed in the distance.

For most of the morning, he walked with great care through the woodland, and then he came upon an immense field bleached blonde by the sun’s bright rays. He strolled through the field, enjoying the sun’s warmness as it caressed his face. Normally, he didn’t like a sunny day. He preferred cloudy days when the morning dew covered the grass, and thick moisture lingered like a wool blanket in the air.

He reached the end of the field, and reentered the forest walking upon a path of hardened dirt. He expected to see bears and lions, as he often heard from Tennessee that bears and lions ruled the forest.

Suddenly, a thrashing rustled the brush. He froze, his little legs trembling. But it wasn’t a bear or lion. A pair of skunks waddled out from a group of mulberry bushes. They stared at Earnest with their noses wrinkled.

A white sheep, one of them said.

Impossible, remarked the other.

They scurried back into the woods. Earnest swallowed hard, trying to control his fear, and continued along the path, thinking more about Maggie. He missed her, loved her. He was still upset Smith had picked her for the County Fair. She had taken first prize and won a blue ribbon. Now, she lived like a queen, feeding in the wonderful fields of Sheepland.

Earnest longed to go to Sheepland, but then all sheep wanted to go there. If it weren’t for Tennessee or Henry the Goat, Earnest would have never learned about their sacred paradise and the Great Ram. But all the sheep on the farm knew of both, and understood that if they could go to the County Fair and win, then they had a chance to go to Sheepland and live with the Great Ram.

Earnest picked up his pace, as he wanted to leave the danger of the woods far behind him and came upon another field of lush green grass. In the distance, there they stood—the mountains. Earnest nodded, wearing a look of determination. Nothing would stop him.

Sheepland lie beyond these mountains.

A day or two of hard climbing, and he would reach his paradise.

- 3 -

Earnest climbed up the craggy mountainside, taking his time, making sure he didn’t slip. He reached the first patch of level ground, and all of sudden a huge ram, three times his size, stepped out from a cave, blocking his path.

Earnest took a step back, his heart beating in a frantic pound that ached under his ribs. Ever since he could remember, he heard stories about the wild rams. They were mean and malicious, and maybe even insane because they lived on the mountains and pummeled civilized sheep to death.

The mountain ram was gray with a dark black stripe running down its muzzle and a light-colored saddle patch. His huge menacing horns curled sharp. He snarled with a fierce scowl. Who dares come upon Fire Mountain?

Earnest swallowed hard, struggling to force the saliva down his throat.

The large ram moved closer to him. You’re not one of us, are you? His eyes filled with a hard glint. Well, speak, little white ram! What is your name?

Earnest bent his head and his shoulders drooped. Earnest.

And you desire passage, Earnest?

Yes.

Well, you can’t have it! The ram rasped a wicked laugh. Now turn around and go back down the mountain, or else!

Earnest hesitated.

The large ram bent his head, and pawed at the ground. He let out a heavy breath and the wool on his chest flexed. Earnest feared the wild ram would butt him off the pathway.

Please. He glanced back down the mountainside. I’ve been traveling for nearly a whole day. I really need to pass.

The ram huffed and bleated, his glare like the winter rain.

Okay. Earnest bent his head, and frowned, tears in his eyes. He would have to find another way. He was too small to fight such a large ram. He turned, ready to head back down the mountain when another ram charged toward him.

Black and tall, with a white nose, his horns even larger than the gray ram’s horns, the mighty ram came to a sudden halt only a few feet away from Earnest. Don’t let Thaddeus frighten you, little one. His voice resonated deep. Tell me where you’re from, and then I’ll let you know whether or not you can pass.

He refuses to say, Warner. The gray ram snickered. This little ram acts more like a little ewe.

Shut up! Warner snapped. He stared Earnest up and down, his black eyes unwavering. Well, my little ram, where are you from? Are you from Eastern Hills? If so, then you know we can’t let you pass. Maybe you’re from the western fields and Osgood Lake. If that’s true, you’re a long way from home. Again, you must turn around and find another way.

But... I... I... Earnest fumbled with his words. I’m not from any of those places. I’m from a place called Meadowbrook Farm.

Meadowbrook Farm! the two rams said in unison.

Warner took a step closer to Earnest. If that is so then Gabriel, the greatest of all the rams that live on Fire Mountain, will wish to see you.

Well, what are you waiting for? Thaddeus laughed so loud that his voice echoed throughout the mountainside. Follow us!

And keep up! Warner added. The Brother wolves will come out soon.

That’s right. Thaddeus wore a strange grin. If you fall behind, they'll catch you and rip you apart.

Earnest followed the two large rams as they climbed the side of the mountain, trying to keep up with them. Wolves terrified him. Over the last few months, twice he spotted a wolf, and both times he grew lightheaded and almost passed out.

He did his best to keep up with the two rams, finding the right nooks in the terrain. But even finding the proper footing, he struggled climbing up the mountainside. Thaddeus and Warner, however, had little trouble climbing the rugged path. They went from one crag to another with elegant balance and graceful steps.

It wasn't long until Earnest found himself falling farther and farther behind. Please, slow down. I can’t climb that fast.

But the two rams ignored him, keeping to their steady pace. They reached a vast land of rocks and hills, and hundreds of rams and ewes stood before them. Some had tan heads and darker tan bodies. Others had solid gray bodies with lighter muzzles and saddle patches. Still others had black bodies with white and black heads.

Follow me. Warner motioned with his horns. And stay close.

Thaddeus laughed. Or you may find yourself in a fight that you can’t win.

Earnest followed Warner and Thaddeus as they swaggered past the many rams and ewes. Some of the sheep ignored the three, content to eat the brush and grass which had turned brown from lack of rain. Others basked in the bright sunlight. Most, however, glared at Earnest. Rams scowled. Ewes hissed. Some of the younger sheep nudged his backside, trying to pick a fight with him. One juvenile even spat on him. Earnest ignored their steely glares, their prods and pushes, and kept close to Warner and Thaddeus.

The two rams led him to a rocky path that reached the top of Fire Mountain. On a large plateau stood four huge black rams, and a white ram with a goatee grayed from age. The large white ram spotted Warner and Thaddeus and charged.

Earnest swallowed hard, and his little legs knocked together. Since they were going to fight, he panicked and hid behind Thaddeus.

But the large white ram stopped inches before the two rams. What’s wrong? His voice thundered. Are the Brothers back? Or is it a bear or Sun-Yat Fu, the bloodthirsty mountain lion?

No, oh great one. Warner bowed his head. We’re not under attack by any force.

Then why have you disturbed the council?

Thaddeus snickered. We’ve brought a visitor to see you. He stepped to the side.

The large white ram’s eyes opened wide. It can’t be...

He’s from—

I know where he’s from, Warner! His gaze shifted from Warner to the small white ram and his voice took on a cordial tone. What is your name, little ram?

Earnest.

And how is Mr. Smith?

Earnest tilted his small horns. You know Mr. Smith?

Of course. The large white ram’s gaze shifted back to Warner and Thaddeus. Return to your vantage point. For the time being, Earnest will stay with the council. Let me know immediately if you see the Brothers.

Warner and Thaddeus bowed their horns and rushed back down the rugged pathway.

My name is Gabriel. The ram raised his chin. I rule Fire Mountain. Join us, little one.

Earnest followed Gabriel toward four other rams. All had black and gray fur, large horns, and stood taller than any of the other rams, including Gabriel.

These four rams help me keep the peace on Fire Mountain. Then Gabriel introduced the four to Earnest. This is Brown, Cowan, Mack, and Scibelli.

Each ram nodded as Gabriel called their name, except for Brown, the largest of the four.

I don’t want to know any more rams from that place! He glared at Earnest, rage burning in his eyes. Get away from me! Then he turned away and charged to the edge of the highland.

Earnest’s shoulders slumped.

He’s not angry with you. Gabriel moved closer to Earnest. He lost a dear friend to Sun-Yat Fu, the mountain lion, a dear friend who once lived on Meadowbrook Farm, just as I once lived on Meadowbrook Farm.

Earnest's dark eyes opened wide. You did?

Gabriel nodded, his majestic grin never leaving his face. Yes.

Snowy was a dear friend to all of us, Mack said, his powerful voice soothing. He was the fastest of all the rams. I still don’t know how Fu caught him.

So, tell us, why you’re here? Gabriel asked.

To find Sheepland.

Gabriel burst out laughing, as did the other rams.

But I was told Sheepland lies just past these mountains. I have to get there.

At one time, I believed the same. Gabriel's grin wilted. But there is no Sheepland.

But that’s where Maggie is grazing. I was told—

Sit, Earnest. Gabriel indicated the ground next to him. Many years ago when I was a sheep not much older than you, I believed in Sheepland. The entire flock believed in the holy land. It was a time of sunshine and great hope, especially for me. I was the farm’s next champion. He nodded and a look of great concern crossed his face. That’s right. I was to go to the County Fair, win first prize and a blue ribbon. But it was also a time of danger on the farm, for they—the Brother Wolves— lurked in the woods. We believed they were our greatest enemy, but we were wrong. Terribly wrong. Another enemy lurked among us—an enemy we mistook as a friend—that enemy was Mr. Smith the Farmer.

Earnest backed away and shook his horns. He blinked his eyes, had trouble keeping his balance. How could the man he admired be an enemy? No one had treated him with more kindness. No one had treated him with more love. There has to be a mistake.

When I was your age, I would have thought the same.

I should continue the story, Mack said. I have heard it so many times I know it as if I was there myself. And of course, I am the better storyteller.

Gabriel nodded. Very well.

Earnest looked to the ram, all ears, his eyes wide. He wanted to hear every detail. He sniffled, still thinking about Smith the Farmer, and how much he loved him, then sat next to Gabriel waiting to learn more about the ram's life.

Mack stared the little ram up and down, offered a comforting grin, then cleared his throat. It all happened many years ago. Gabriel was such a carefree little ram. But he knew of the danger. Since only a few weeks old, he had been told about the Brother Wolves. As evil as can be. As evil will always do. They were the demons of the woods, the makers of nightmares, and they were ready to strike Meadowbrook Farm again.

- 4 -

Smith and his three sons rode on horseback, keeping a watchful eye on the many sheep, as the flock grazed peacefully upon the lush hillside. Smith was on the other side of fifty, short and stocky, with a haggard red beard graying at its edges, and a large aquiline nose. His eldest son, John Jr., stood tall and thin, with blonde hair and blue eyes. His other two boys, Peter and Paul, looked remarkably like him. Paul even grew a scraggly, red beard like his father.

Fifteen sheepdogs worked busily on the hill, making sure the flock stayed together. Three Doberman Pincers—Lance, Fabio, and Duke—whom Smith had specially trained to protect the flock, stayed on the perimeter, making sure no wolves dared enter the fields.

After the last incident nine months ago, when the wolves savagely murdered several ewes and a half-dozen lambs, Smith purchased the three Pincers.

The dogs looked remarkably similar to each other except for Duke who stood taller and brawnier. Duke recently killed one of the Brother Wolves. He bit the little pup in the throat, nearly decapitating it, then carried the carcass proudly to Smith, dropping it at his master’s feet. Smith patted Duke lovingly on the head for doing such a fine job. You’re a good dog, Duke. I should have gotten dogs like you a long time ago.

Since that day the wolves remained much more cautious when entering the pasture. But they still often hid where the grass met the woods, just waiting for their chance to strike.

The flock grazed upon the hillside, having no care that wolves and bears and mountain lions lurked in the nearby forest. Being early spring, it took until midday before the sun broke through the overcast sky and dried the fields.

The sheep loved the grass wet from the morning dew. For them, it tasted exceptional.

Gabriel, a young white ram, stood among his peers, gnawing on the glistening blades. He was the pride of the flock, and a handsome ram. Since only a few weeks old, Smith and his sons treated him with more care than the rest of the sheep. They fed him better food and often praised him, telling him someday he would be a champion. Emily, Smith’s youngest daughter, often bathed and combed him. She even made him a blue bow that he wore proudly until he lost it one day.

Now that Gabriel had grown older, he stayed with the flock in the fields, feeding and playing during the day and staying in the safety of the pens at night. The flock mainly consisted of ewes and a few lucky rams. Smith sold most of the male sheep when still lambs, to Essex Hills Farm, several towns away. Once he sold a ram, that ram never returned. No one knew for sure why Essex Hills Farm purchased so many young rams, but Isaiah once told Gabriel it was so they could work on the farm. Everyone knew rams were much stronger than ewes.

Isaiah, the elder statesram at Meadowbrook, claimed that most rams worked at Essex Hills Farm for several years, and after that they went to Sheepland where they lived like kings.

A fair trade, working hard and then going to Sheepland.

But Gabriel never had to worry about going to Essex Hills Farm. Smith had special plans for him.

A ram much like Gabriel, but an inch shorter and a little thinner, stepped up to him. One more year, Gabriel. Truax bleated with delight. Everyone is counting on you to win the trophy. You’re the best hope we’ve had in a long time.

Gabriel nodded, and threw out his chest. Truax and all the sheep on the farm expected him to take first place at the County Fair. The only other ram ever to win at the fair was Pettibone, and that happened some time ago. But Pettibone grew ill while he stayed there, and even though he won a first-place trophy and a blue ribbon, he never went to Sheepland with the other winners.

Instead, Smith loaded him back onto his plush trailer and drove him back to the farm. Now, he lived as an ornery, old ram who grazed by himself, loathing the rest of the flock. Some of the sheep believed Smith would sell Pettibone to another farm, or even send him far away to another state. But so far Smith had refused to part with the large ram.

We should go visit Pettibone, Truax said. Get some pointers from him.

I’m not going anywhere near him. Gabriel shook his small horns. I heard he tried to kill the last young ram that approached him.

But that young ram wasn’t you.

The commotion happened like a thunder strike. The Dobermans barked with urgent warning. Lance bolted for the woods, with Fabio and Duke charging full-bore behind him. In a frenzy, the sheepdogs herded the few strays. But sheep grazed in all parts of the field.

At first, Gabriel and Truax stood where they grazed, unsure what to do. But then Gabriel's eyes opened wide.

Wolves rushed from the woods—six of them, all large and menacing.

Run! Truax shouted. He turned and dashed for the flock.

Too frightened