Poseidon's Door

By Dorman Walters Jr.

“You are in the city of Poseidon… eighty-five million years in Earth’s past.”

Tom West was heading home to Silverton, Colorado on leave when a portal of massive power opened up and swallowed the train. The train came out the other side, 85 million years ago in the Cretaceous era. Poseidon’s door turned out to be one way with new arrivals daily from across the universe and multiple timelines. There was a thousand year old society already here of aliens and humans called the Kingdom of Poseidon ruled by Queen Talia. They attempt to blend in when an old nemesis shows up in pursuit of the Trident of Poseidon that turns out to be real. Turns out the gods were aliens and the trident was an advanced piece of technology. Meanwhile a threat to the Queen emerges in Senator Remus and a power struggle ensues. Who will get the Trident first? Can the door be closed? Will they make it home? 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Outskirts Press
• Release date: Jun 25, 2023
• ISBN: 9781478745075

Dorman Walters Jr.

Dorman is a graduate from the University in Oklahoma where he got is Bachelors of Art in History. He lives in Chickasha, OK with his wife and three kids. Dorman is an avid writer. He currently has written five other books available at Outskirtspress.com.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Thomas Lee West watched in mild amusement as a mom slapped her daughter in the mouth for swearing , he remembered his mom putting soap in his mouth. He didn’t require toothpaste for a week! She had tried to curb his tongue but ten years in Delta Force did nothing to stop his own swearing. If anything, it had made it worse but whenever possible he tried to control the urge. Sometimes a good swear word made one feel better, especially under fire. May not do any good but it beat some other form of destructive behavior…Like say, murder or smoking. He had served all over the world and he had killed people on multiple occasions. Killing came easy to Tom and that disturbed him. Was he a killer? He figured probably not because he could still see that line in the sand. Did he have nightmares? Sometimes but that seemed to be part of the job description. The nightmares was his conscience way of keeping him focused on what needed to be done. His upbringing by his mom and dad kept him on the straight and narrow. Someday that little girl would thank her mom for the same thing.

I’m sorry about that. She smiled, sitting down across from Tom.

Think nothing of it, ma’am.

Jenny and this little potty mouth is Becky.

Tom West.

Old west gunslinger? Jenny smiled.

Only in my childhood, ma’am.

Becky was four years old and seemed to be a handful. Tom had mad respect for her attempts to instill manners in the little girl, but like all kids Becky’s age it was always a challenge. Jenny was an attractive, petite, green-eyed red head in her twenties and was hard to ignore.

Military?

What?

Are you, military? Jenny asked, smiling.

Is it obvious, ma’am? Tom smiled, staring out the train window, admiring the snowcapped mountains in the distance.

It is all the ma’am’s and haircut. Jenny answered, admiring the handsome soldier.

Tom West was six-foot two inches, two hundred and twenty-five pounds. His team called him ‘Poseidon’ because he was a fish and could hold his breath long enough to drown a one. Years of training and exercise had hardened and chiseled his body which had gotten Jenny’s attention. His head was clean shaven and sitting beside him was a black, bull hide cowboy hat with a silver-tone inset hat band. He was wearing blue jeans and a black t-shirt.

I am on leave to visit family in Silverton, ma’am.

Jenny. I look around for my mom when you call me ma’am. She smiled, shaking his hand.

Right. Tom smiled.

Husband leave you to wonder the mountains by yourself, Jenny?

Divorced… I never knew who’s bed his Tennis shoes were under. I packed up with the only good thing from that marriage and moved on. How about you, Tom? Jenny smiled, rubbing Becky’s head.

Never married… occasional girlfriend but nothing that last long with my line of work being gone all the time.

But a good man…I can tell. Jenny said, gently touching his hand.

Depends on who you talk to. Tom smiled, enjoying the warm feelings Jenny’s touch gave him.

I’m hungry momma. Becky said, pulling at Jenny’s green, tank top.

Me to Becky! What say we find out what kind of food this train serves? Tom said.

You don’t have to—

My pleasure. Tom said, waving down the onboard attendant.

Yes, sir?

A pastry with… chocolate? Tom grinned, glancing at an excited Becky.

Yes, please!!!! She said, jumping up and down.

Yes, sir. The Attendant answered, with a pleasant smile.

The ride to Silverton was three and half hours at a pleasant eighteen miles per hour, which gave one time to enjoy the beautiful country. An area steeped in western history, snowcapped mountains, and crisp air. The San Juan National Forest was one point eight million acres in the southwest corner of Colorado. It ranged from high desert mesas to Alpine peaks. There was thousands of miles of backtrails to get lost on and Tom enjoyed those moments of quiet to bath in the beauty of nature. The area was a conifer forest that included Ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, white fir, and Aspens. Mule deer, Elk, mountain goat, bighorn sheep, moose black bear, and mountain lion called the area home.

The route followed the Animas River through narrow canyons, around the Horseshoe Curve and over the Royal Gorge Bridge that was nine hundred and fifty-six feet above the Arkansas river. There was plenty of photo opportunities to go around that was for sure. Jenny took lots of photos and video to take home back in San Antonio, Texas. The conversation had been pleasant and enjoyable. It had been a long time since he had been this comfortable around a woman.

Jenny was an open book, genuine, and he could not help the feelings for her, but he knew realistically that she would go home, and he would never see her again. That last thought bothered him a lot. Why should it? Jenny was a moment in time, but it felt like more than that. Tom knew he could not subject her to his lifestyle. He was gone months at a time on secret missions. Jenny would sit at home worried to death if he would come home in a flag-draped coffin.

Tom West had been raised in Silverton. A small town of less than seven hundred people and former mining town. There was a ski mountain, Silver Mountain, that opened nearby. The town was a tourist attraction in the warmer months with the train and a ski town in the winter months. There was cold, snow-filled winters and warm summers. Tom could not even begin to count the trails he had wandered, the near misses with black bears and mountain lions, and the worry his mom let him know about once home. He had never felt at home in big cities around large groups of people. The starry sky and the wide open was his home and temple.

Suddenly the train started screeching as the conductor pulled on the brakes. Jenny fell into Tom’s arms as he grabbed hold of a screaming Becky. Tom looked out the window to see what was happening but saw nothing. They were crossing Lime Creek on a trestle bridge, a rigid steel frame structure. Was the bridge out?

What is happening, Tom? Jenny asked, looking around, visibly frightened.

I don’t know. Stay here. Tom answered, standing up, headed for a door, looking out the windows.

The attendant stopped him, Sit down please. Everything is fine, sir.

Then you won’t mind if I take a look. Tom smiled, opening the door, wishing he had not.

The end of the bridge was flowing right into a giant opening that popped and cracked from lightening emitting from the sides. What the hell was that? The train had already entered which meant the conductor was gone. Who was driving the train? Tom ran back to his seat, pulling Jenny and Becky in close.

What is it, Tom?

It will be okay. Tom smiled as the they entered the light show.

The air was electric and loud as passengers screamed.

Chapter 2

The train was coming to a slow stop as people boarded the train, checking on passengers. Tom looked around seeing their new surroundings and, instantly, all his senses went into high alert. Where were they? It appeared to be a giant train station with no tracks, behind them was a solid wall. To both sides was people taking readings, looking for something. Others offered blankets and water trying to calm the passengers that were gathering outside.

Are you and your wife, okay?

We are fine. Tom answered, squeezing Jenny’s shoulder. They were not even a couple but their best bet at the moment was him.

There is fresh beverages and blankets outside—

Where are we?

All will be explained, I promise. You are in no danger, sir.

Thanks. Jenny said, once they were just out of earshot, hugging Tom.

You’re welcome. Tom answered, enjoying the hug, that had his heart racing one hundred to nothing.

They were given water and offered sandwiches as they exited the train. Tom walked slowly, looking around as they were guided to a waiting room at the end of the giant stone room. The only means of escape was through that door. Where would that lead them? How did they get here? Who had the ability to pull off a stunt like this? The best bet was to stay calm and not get separated till he could figure things out. Once the action started, it would be quick with no time for questions.

Where are we? The attendant asked, whose name was Emily.

That is a good question. Don’t say any more than you have to and stay close. Taking note of the train conductor’s body, draped in a white blanket.

Behind them, people were inspecting the train. On their tail was someone taking notes and pictures, while others were taking what was not nailed down. What was going on? This gave a whole new meaning to train heist. Surely there was easier ways to rob a train. They went through the door that beeped as they went through single file and given shots. Tom walked through the door first, grabbing the hand with the needle.

Where are we and what is in the needle? Tom demanded, giving her wrist a twist that caused her to yelp.

We are not going to hurt you…promise.

Let me be the judge of that. Tom smiled, knocking the needle out of the technician’s hand. What happened to the train conductor? Tom had known him for years. He was a kind old man nearing retirement.

He was dead when we found him. Our first guess until he is examined was a heart attack.

He wanted to mourn but had bigger things to worry about at the moment. Tom had known Chris, the conductor, since he was a boy. Chris was a friendly old man that always had stories and time for him.

Amazons in black leather armor, carrying swords and shields, filled the room. On their shields and armor was a golden trident. Where were they? The trident was the symbol of Poseidon, god of the sea, from Greek mythology. How could people with swords pull off the train robbery? How did they get that kind of tech? Shouldn’t they be carrying weapons a little more advanced? Did those swords do more than stab?

Please be calm. We are not going to hurt you, sir. Said the brunette Amazon. She was the officer in charge of the women soldiers.

All things considered I am relatively calm. Tom said, maintaining his grip on the tech.

We are just checking your health and —

And the light show before we ended up here. How was that accomplished?

One of the Amazon soldiers edged forward slightly, which did not go unnoticed. The Amazon glanced at her shaking her head. She saw Tom for the warrior he was. Her training as an Amazon warrior knew he was more than just some Joe off the street.

You are in the city of Poseidon… eighty-five million years in Earth’s past.

Tom West stared at her a moment, and she was not smiling. Was it possible? Ten years in the Delta force and he had never seen anything like it. He had led missions to Afghanistan, Iraq, Russia, and many other places that were highly classified. He had gathered intel and data from many places, but he had never seen anything like what brought them here. Tom could see she was serious about that last statement. He could spot a liar and he prided himself on that.

And you are?

Captain Penthesilia.

Tom West had heard that name before from his studies in mythology. Penthesilia was the enemy of Achilles, son of Thetis and Peleus, King of Phthia. Penthesilia had fought against him at the siege of Troy three thousand years ago. The daughter of Ares and Otrera. Otrera was the consort of Ares and the first Queen of the Amazons. She was also founded the shrine of Artemis in Ephesus. Penthesilia was the sister of Hippolta, Antiope and Melanippe. Achillies had killed her. Looked pretty good for a dead woman. Wonder how far she would go with this story? Let’s find out.

The Amazon killed by Achilles?

Homer embellished a battle to sell it to his people. Achilles was an arrogant warlord and thug killed by Prince Paris with an arrow in the back as he walked away victorious after a one-on-one combat with his brother, Prince Hector. While fleeing the city with Prince Paris, Poseidon’s door appeared and blocked our path. I assumed it was sent by my father, Ares, and I led them through it to here.

Tom West studied Captain Penthesilia face a moment. She truly believed the incredible story she just told.

Prince Paris is here?

No, he fled with Helen and his soldiers.

But not you because Ares, your father, sent Poseidon’s door?

I thought he sent it… yes.

And you were in the wooden horse?

Me and my sisters opened the gates of Troy.

Tom West stared a moment before releasing the technician. Either that story was true or she was a crackpot. In the end it did not matter because there would be no escape with the gathering soldiers behind Captain Penthesilia. Tom stared at those that had been vaccinated and they seemed perfectly fine. The technician put the needle in his arm and injected the yellow liquid.

Sorry about that. Tom said to her.

It’s fine. I understand.

They were led outside a castle against a cliff that overlooked an ocean. The castle sat on a hill that sloped down to trees that went behind the cliff.

Tom! Jenny screamed, pointing up.

Overhead, Tom saw pterodactyl’s circling above the castle. He pulled Jenny close, Becky was giggling and pointing. In the distance could be heard the sounds of large animals Tom could not recognize. Maybe Captain Penthesilia was telling the truth? They were led around the side to an open courtyard that had tables with food. Jenny held Tom’s hand tight as they took seats. Becky smiled as someone put a slice of chocolate cake in her plate.

Yummy!

Tom smiled, Becky seemed to have no issues with what was happening but what child would when there were dinosaurs and cake. Tom filled their glasses with water urging Jenny to eat. At this moment, he was willing to go on a little faith. An older gentlemen, wearing red robes, walked up to a podium, and sipped on a cup of red wine before speaking.

I am Senator Remus…Welcome to the great city of Poseidon.

Poseidon? All he seen was a castle on a hill, against a cliff. It was beautiful and picturesque but not a city. Probably a holding station till people could be educated before being released which was a good policy. The hill wrapped around the cliff which was the probable location of Poseidon.

This city was founded a thousand years ago when the first citizens came through Poseidon’s door in the aftermath of the battle of Mount Olympus when the gods fought their final battle and died.

Great god war? Was that the fate of the Greek gods or was this another tale of a long dead past when they thought times were better. Tom West tended to believe the latter, but they were here, and that part of the story was true. Was the crack an unexplainable phenomenon? The god story was the easiest explanation for the masses but that did not make it untrue. He needed further conversations with people of scientific backgrounds before deciding on how to proceed with their situation. Right now, he would play along. Tom turned his attention back to Senator Remus, as he continued his story.

The cult leaders of the Christians, with a massive army, led an uprising with the help of the Titans and attacked the gods of Olympus. In the battle, the gods were killed or fled. Poseidon himself seen defeat and the end of their time coming opened a door. Zeus was badly injured, with the help of his son, Hercules, went through the door first. Poseidon and Ares went next when the door was struck by the Titans with a mighty blow. Poseidon and Ares came out here, unable to return to their own time. A search for Zeus turned up nothing. He had vanished and the door opened by Poseidon turned out to be one way. Ares and Poseidon was said to have crossed the Sea of Poseidon, never to be seen again.

Tom tried not to roll his eyes at the religious babble being spouted. Odds were high that there were statues and temples in the city dedicated to Poseidon and the stories now being told. Except for this god door, there seemed to be no hard evidence to support it. Tom bet on a freak-of-nature moment without scientific understanding being explained away by Senator Remus. Was he supposed to be the brother of Romulus, the founder of Rome?

The Titans were then betrayed by the cult and murdered after they served their purposes.

Of course, being here there was no proof of that statement. Where he came from, the cult had split into a second major branch of Islam. Perhaps Zeus had suffered this same fate and that had led to his defeat? The changing of religions was throughout history. Everyone had their moment and then was replaced. But the common themes always remained: control, fleecing of the people, and suppressing anything that messed with their power. In the midst of all this, scientific thought and proof always suffered. If not for religion, Tom and most scholars think, we would have settled on Mars, or at the very least, have a city on the moon. Imagine being stationed there and seeing an Earth rise? That would have been spectacular!

It was told that some the followers founded this city in the land of monsters, awaiting Poseidon’s return.

Karma is a bitch., Tom laughed to himself.

You will be shown the city and given opportunity to thrive. We will not cast you to the wolves. That is the act of an un-enlightened people. Any questions?

I saw your people inspecting the train. What will become of it? Tom asked.

We incorporate what shows up, which you will see when we tour the city. Senator Remus answered with a smile.

What of our things on the train? Another asked.

We have your stuff in the castle and you will have the opportunity to claim them after you have seen the city. Then you will be provided housing until ready to merge with the general population. We have law and order. Chaos would ensue if we just let you go. That was a lesson learned the hard way.

Tom believed that statement. People were animals that panicked first and asked questions later. Maybe he should snoop around later, after everyone fell asleep. What would he find? If people had really been here that long and things like their train had been incorporated, then the city of Poseidon would be interesting to say the least.

Is this Poseidon’s door random? Tom asked.

We assume so. People emerge from different times and planets with no order of any kind. The only thing we know for sure is the door emerges here and is one way.

Now he had to see the city. Different planets besides Earth?

With billions and billions of planets, do you find this hard to believe?

When put like that…no. Tom smiled. He had considered the idea of them being alone a little arrogant.

Enjoy your meals. I will walk amongst you and answer any more questions you may have.

People flocked to Senator Remus with many questions. The man had to have the patience of a saint to deal with this or one would go crazy. Senator Remus looked comfortable and was probably well paid for his time. Was his purpose really to educate the people or brainwash them? A little snooping around would give Tom more clarity. Tom held up a glass and nodded towards Captain Penthesilia. She stared, probably seeing his thoughts, but that was a chance he would take. What of Jenny and Becky? He stared a moment at the pretty green-eyed red head and smiled. She would be okay. Jenny was stronger than she realized. Becky was four and would be fine. She would play princess unaware of any real danger.

Save my seat? Tom smiled.

Where are you going? Jenny asked.

I have questions for the Captain.

She is very beautiful—

Not like that at all.

Then why?

To know our situation better. The Senator may be telling tall tales to brainwash, or he believes them which is scary. Tom answered patiently, knowing the source of her questions.

What if it is true?

I will wrap my mind around that later if it is true. Tom answered knowing the possibility of parts of the story being true with pterodactyls flying around.

Enjoy talking to the pretty warrior woman. Jenny smiled.

I just might.

Who knows how long or how many times Jenny’s husband cheated on her. She would always have shadow of a doubt because of him and that was his fault. Tom had never felt the connection like he had with Jenny and was looking forward to exploring it further. Right now, he just wanted to get a feel for their surroundings and what he was up against.

Chapter 3

Tom walked casually up to Captain Penthesilia, eating what tasted like an apple. She was surrounded by her women warriors who never took their eyes off him. They placed their hands on their swords at his approach.

Easy sisters. I am sure this man plans no harm.

Men are un-trustable, Captain. Bremusa said.

As a rule, but I will not shut the door on the possibility for that would be closed minded on our part my sisters.

You are wise as you are beautiful. Tom said, throwing the apple away.

Captain Penthesilia was a former Amazonian queen in the eastern steppes. Her empire stretched across the whole area till the arrival of the Persian empire. It was a vast temperate area of grasslands, savannas and shrublands. They fought for three years before fleeing their homeland. The Persian Empire had more resources and had outlasted hers. Upon her arrival in Sparta, she was given land and title by King Menelaus. She had encouraged the war with Troy because of Helen. They had a secret affair and Penthesilia figured her confused when she ran off with Prince Paris. Menelaus followed King Agamemnon, his older brother and commander in chief to the Greek forces. Penthesilia had confronted Helen during the battle about Prince Paris.

Come back and I will protect you, Helen. Penthesilia pleaded.

You attacked Troy and now the city will burn because of your jealousy, Penthesilia.

Please do not do this my love. Penthesilia pleaded, on the verge of tears.

We have to go! Prince Paris shouted, running up to Helen. Did I interrupt something?

No, my handsome Prince.

You really love each other?

We do. Prince Paris smiled, pulling Helen close.

Then I am coming to. Penthesilia said quietly, looking down at the ground.

Thank you. Helen smiled, lifting her chin, kissing Penthesilia.

Captain Penthesilia mind returned to