A collection of stories features a pair of centuries-old vampires whose relationship is tested by a sudden fear of flying, a dejected teen who communicates with the universe and a massage therapist who heals a tattooed veteran by manipulating the images on his body.

Vampires in the lemon grove -- Reeling for the empire -- The Seagull Army descends on Strong Beach, 1979 -- Proving up -- The barn at the end of our term -- Dougbert Shackleton's rules for Antarctic tailgating -- The new veterans -- The graveless doll of Eric Mutis.