Stories of Tie Up Games

Nice to see The Ghost get some well-deserved punishment, although I would have left Teresa hogtied in a München hotel room as punishment for her own monstrous personality.

If that truly is the end, then WHAT an Ending! If not, well that means there's more to come....

LunaDog wrote: 2 months ago If that truly is the end, then WHAT an Ending! If not, well that means there's more to come....

The first Part of the Epilogue is complete. The second is in the Works. What I can tell: There will be a time Gap of five Months between Chapter 6 and the second Epilogue. With the Location of Epilogue, Part 2, we will return to a Place which played a central Role in the "Hunt for the Weinstein Collection"

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Dear Friends, dear Readers, this is the first Epilouge, the second will follow in due Course!







It had snowed, a thin Layer of crisp, crystal White covered Salzburg. A sharp, cold Wind blew from the East. Snowflakes hurled through the Air, the Sky was cloudy. The Wind blew Wisps of metal grey Clouds across the Salzach. Chris was usually three or four Times a Year in Mozart´s City. The sharp Breeze bit into her Skin as she crossed the muddy, metal grey River, using the Müllner Steig.

The Blonde did not mind the Climate but was thankful for having chosen the black Baker Boy Cap. From her shiny Gianvito Rossi Boots to the Cap, Chris wore black: wide-legged black Trousers and a long Blazé Milano ‘Lahloo’ double-breasted black Coat. The only colourful touch was the thick, bright red Merino Scarf she had slung around her Neck. Purposefully, she strode along, followed the Street, turned right, passed Mirabell Palace, and entered Mirabell Park.

She had arrived in Salzburg after a two-Hour Drive from Ettal. Chris smiles: She has beaten her Record, despite the bad Weather. Everything is going as planned. Two Days before, a Press-Conference had been held at Ettal Abbey. The Weinstein Foundation´s Public Relations Department had taken care the News of newly discovered Mozart-Autographs had made it into all the right Circles. Rachel Weinstein had used her widespread Net of Contacts around the Globe.

The Pianist smiles as she walks along: Abbot Conradin had been shocked as he learned about the impending Invasion of the Abbey by a Stampede of Journalists from around the Globe - and delegated the Press Conference to Father Severinus. The Librarian was much more versed in the Ways of the World. He had outdone himself on the Podium with just the right Ounce of Benedictine Gravitas. Jodie Brewster, Curator of the Weinstein Collection, had been there for the Weinstein Foundation, too.


But the Star of the Show had been Esme.


Chris had declined firmly to play any Part in Public. “Esme,” she looked the Teacher in the Eye, “The Stage is yours. I just lend you a hand. Without you, the Mozart would still rest in the Labyrinth, never to see the light, right? Do me one favour: just keep as close to the Truth as Possible. I don´t need the Limelight.” Now she had smiled, “Except when I enter the Stage. Officially, I played no Part in the Discovery of the Autographs. You do not even know me.”

“But” Esme had wanted to object – but Chris cut her off: “This is my final Word!”

And the Teacher had done a hell of a Job. The Cameras loved her. Esme had answered every Question calmly, firmly, and enthralled the Audience with her Charm. Chris had watched from the Sidelines.

Today, she walks purposefully through the Gardens of Mirabelle Palace – it is because of Esme that she makes that Trip. Her Smile is now grim. Sybil has done some deep diving into some People´s Background here at the Mozarteum – and dug deeper. Esme has told her why she did not pursue a Career as a Pianist but hid in Ettal instead.

Chris is here today to deliver Justice. For Esme – and others.

She passes the “Four-Elements-Well” and turns left. In Front of her is the Mozarteum´s modern Main Building, a shiny Cube of Glass and Stone. Chris smiles as she spots the solitary Figure waiting at the Main Entrance. The Woman turns her back on her. She is taller than herself. Exactly 186 Centimetres in her stockinged Feet, as the Pianist knows. With her elegant maroon red high-heeled Italian Boots, even taller. She loves Heels, Chris knows.

On her Head, the Woman wears a Sable Fur Cap – an Heirloom, Chris knows. A long red-checkered Wool Coat. In her left Hand, she carries a Violin Case. She never leaves it to anyone else when Merit is not around. Merit is the Violinist´s Lady-in-Waiting. The young Egyptian is the youngest Member of the von der Marwitz´s Patchwork Family. Merit has adapted remarkably quickly to the new World she is now Part of for almost a Year:

The Pianist closes the Distance and walks the five Steps up to the Entrance. The other Woman turns around and smiles, “Hello Chris!” The Blonde hugs her best Friend. “Where is James?” “Business,” the Russian pouts – something came in the Way, and he had to leave early.” “You had Fun, though, yesterday?” Chris teases the Russian.

“We had” Anna Alexandrovna Romanova purrs “James just knows right to handle me.” Chris chuckles, “I bet.” The Pianist knows that James' handling Anna involves Rope, Rope – lots of it – and a large Gag. For obvious Reasons, “There were no complaints by other Guests this Morning – about the Noise …” Chris asks innocently, “Of course not!” Anna smiles sweetly, “I know you are pretty vocal at Times.” The Pianist teases the Violinist.

“My Sex Life has never been better!” The dark-haired Russian states firmly, “Apropos Sex …” Anna smiles mischievously, “How is Ardeth Bey?” “He is well.” Chris smiles, but her Tone makes it clear that she won´t say anything more. “Besides, we have a Job to do!” The Russian smiles, “This will be fun!” and follows the German into the large Entry Hall.

Chris is already at the Reception Desk, “Christine Auguste Victoria Wilhelmine von der Marwitz and Grand Duchesse Anna Alexandrovna Romanova”, she introduces them. “We have an Appointment with Rektor Waldenegg.” The Russian smiles, Chris sounds perfectly polite, yet there is a calm Authority in her melodious Alto Voice – and she knows how much Titles still matter in Austria, even if the K. u. K. Monarchy ended over a century ago.

Reciting their full Titles has the desired Effect: The Woman sitting behind the Desk, a plumb Red Head in her late 40s, looks up. Definitely impressed by what she sees and by the noble Pedigree of the Visitors, “You have an Appointment at 11.30 AM,” she confirms referentially, almost devoutly. “Shall I call for someone to bring you up?” That is not necessary,” Anna declines with a dazzling Romanova Smile, “Spasiba, Frau von der Marwitz, and I know the Way, thank you, you are too kind!”

Before Frau Trsnjek can reply, the Violinist and the German have turned and stride to the Elevators. Open-mouthed, the Receptionist stares after them, then she closes her Mouth and smiles: At Lunch, she will definitely have a Story to tell.

In the Elevator to the fifth Floor, Anna smiles at Chris, “Don´t tell me, this wasn´t fun!” Chris smiles too. “I won´t deny it.”


The Rektor´s Office:


Rektor Egon Bernd Waldenegg stands in his spacious Office and looks through the large Panorama Window behind his Desk. He is looking forward to the next Appointment. His Secretary has just informed him, the two Visitors have arrived. Theodora, a busty redhead, is highly dependable, competent, and loyal – and more than just his Secretary. Theodora has many Qualities. In- and outside the Office – Waldenegg smiles. He is a Connoisseur of vintage Beauty – in all its Forms.

His two Visitors embody vintage Beauty. The German Pianist and the Russian Violinist. He found the Blonde always a tad too reserved. Like Marble. Beautiful but cool. There are Rumours that the Pianist declined several Invitations for private Dinners from influential Donors, firmly, very firm. And this “Story” about the Blonde and a Russian Oligarch: Boris Oblomov? That is no Story, it is true as he knows. The Rektor is well-connected:

If the Blonde represents Ice, the Russian embodies Fire. Her fiery Stage Performances are legendary, as is her Temper – as the Mayor of Vienna could attest to. At a Reception after a Concert, the Mayor got grabby. Accidentally, the Russian stepped fully on his Toes, with the Heel of her right Platform-Sandal. Twice.

A firm Knock at the Door interrupts his Daydreams. As usual, Theodora enters without waiting for his Permission- she is one of the very few who enjoys that Privilege. He turns – without any unseemly Haste: “Yes, Theodora?” The Rektor smiles graciously, “Your two Visitors, Herr Hofrat.” She indicates the smallest of bows, “Send them in, Theodora – and bring us the Tea and the Coffee.” He knows the Red-Head has done her Homework meticulously:

The Pianist prefers Green Tea, the Russian strong black Coffee.

“Of Course, Herr Hofrat!” Theodora allows herself the briefest of Smiles and turns on her highly polished black Louboutin Heels – and graces him with a look on her firm Butt, as she leaves the Office with swaying Hips.

He smiles as he hears Theodora saying, “Frau von der Marwitz and Grand Duchesse Romanova, the Rector is seeing you now – if you would follow me?”

As his two Guests enter, he allows himself to appreciate the vintage Beauty before him: The tall Blonde and the even taller Russian. Waldenegg does not like it, but the two Women radiate Power. And for a Spell, the Blonde´s green Eyes met his. “I know you, they say. And what you are.”

Chris:


Anna and I follow the Rektor´s Secretary into Professor Waldenegg´s spacious Office. I have been here before. Many Years ago, at another Time, another Rektor greeted me then. Waldenegg walks around his massive, polished wooden Desk. Elegantly. Smoothly. He is tall, his Temples are grey – he reminds me of Joaquin Phoenix, not the one of Gladiator, but the one of the Joker and Napoleon. His dark blue Suit is tailor-made. Italian, I am sure. Waldenegg smiles warmly, affectionately almost, as he walks towards us. Under the cordial Façade, I sense something different, and I know Anna senses it too.

He executes the Handkiss perfectly – his dry Lips barely touch my Skin. As he raises, he looks me straight in the Eyes – and just for the briefest of Moments, his Façade slips. In his dark Eyes I see something, someone different – a Predator. But the moment is so short that it is barely noticeable. “It is a Pleasure to meet you, Frau von der Marwitz – your Fame precedes you.” I smile back, as naturally as possible, “You are too kind, Herr Hofrat.”

Waldenegg turns to Anna. She stands tall. One of the Moments she is Inch by Inch, the Offspring of the House of Romanov. I am always fascinated by how she does it, that effortless Grace. She smiles and presents her right Hand with the golden Signet Ring to the Rektor. He holds Anna´s Hand just a fraction of a Second longer – and looks her in the Eye just a Moment longer. He is more interested in Anna than me, not that it does matter. Anna and I exchange the briefest of Looks.

He has no Idea.

He bids me and Anna to take a Seat opposite his Desk. Distance. Waldenegg likes to play Power Games. The Seats are comfortable. Anna crosses one long Leg across the other. Von Waldenegg smiles as his Secretary serves us Tea and Coffee. His Gaze lingers on her impressive Bust – just for a second too long. This is Theodora as I know. The Rektor dismisses her with a smile.

Now he turns his Attention to us, “Is it true then, the finding of the Mozart Autographs' Waldenegg´s Smile does not reach his Eyes “You know as much as we do.” I smile warmly at him.

“There are Rumours you played a much more prominent Role in this Affair as the young Teacher, too bad I do not remember her Name.” “Rumours are Rumours,” I say lightly and look Waldenegg directly in the Eye. I sense he is on his Guard now, sensing imminent Danger. He is not wrong. “With the Name, I can help you out, Herr Hofrat. Does Esmeralda Kofler strike a Bell?”

“We wonder,” Anna seconds, “You were one of her Teachers at the Conservatory after all.” She smiles, still friendly and gracious ….. Anna is very good at this

Waldenegg looks intently at Anna, then at the Pianist. “We wonder,” Chris continues. “Esmeralda Kofler graduated as second best of her Year.” The Rector is on his Guard. He notices that the Blonde still smiles, but several degrees colder. Waldenegg seems neither irritated nor confused. It seems like he is wearing impenetrable Armour, like Siegfried. “Now we need to find his Achilles´ Heel.” Chris senses no insecurity. Waldenegg still exudes that Charme of a bygone Age, when Families like his dominated the Habsburg Monarchy.

“My Dear Frau von der Marwitz, “ he smiles like the benevolent high-ranking Aristocrat he likes to see himself. “One remembers the Best only, you should know that; Artists with extraordinary Talent like the Grand Duchess,” his dark Eyes rest on Anna, seem to drink in any Detail, “or yourself.”

He leans back in his comfortable Chair, folds one Leg across the other. “Esmeralda was a gifted Pianist,” Waldenegg concedes, like a Teacher might speak about a talented Student. “I cannot tell you why – I always had the feeling she was not able to cope with the Pressure, was not resilient enough.”

“At the Peaks of highest Artistry, one needs to be resilient.” Waldenegg smiles now at Chris, “A Resilience you possess in the highest Degree.” He looks from the Pianist to the Violinist and back, “Esmeralda was gifted, gifted, but no more.” Another benevolent Smile. “But you have not come to discuss with me Matters of artistic Excellence, right?”

Now Chris sees for a Moment, “Commodus”. Waldenegg looks almost casually at his elegant Watch – a Breguet, which goes for 10.000 Euros. The Rektor´s Tastes are expensive. But someone who is well connected with Russian Oligarchs like Boris Oblomov, no doubt, can afford them. He thinks he is safe now.

Waldenegg registers a subtle Change. Anna Romanova´s Lips cross a small Smile. Christine von der Marwitz does not smile. Instead, she produces a Tablet from her black Shoulder Bag and lays it on the Rektor´s majestic Desk. “No,” she states, “We did not come to discuss Matters of Artistic Excellence, Herr Hofrat.”

Chris smiles cooly:

“Professor, we came to discuss Matters of moral Excellence.” The Blonde´s Face is now as cool as Ice – and Waldenegg finds it impossible to turn his Gaze away. He looks at Chris and at the Tablet. He looks at the Video-Sequence. His face betrays nothing as he watches what he sees.

The Video shows Esme and him. He had invited the Blonde over for Career Advice at his Villa. Waldenegg spiked his Student´s Champagne. He is not one to let an Opportunity pass. Who would have believed her? He had made that very clear to Esme.

The Rektor looks up. Looks into this cold, clear Pair of emerald green Eyes.

Now the Blonde looks at the Joker – a refined Version, without the heavy Make Up “My dear Frau von der Marwitz,” He smiles, “This.” He points at the Tablet, “This is undoubtedly a Fake – you have been misled.” His Smile is condescending.

The Pianist is not impressed:

Chris uncrosses her long Legs and folds them again, now the left above the right: “We all know Her Hofrat, this Video Sequence is true. We know also that in our Age, this does not really matter. If this Material is authentic or not. If it goes public, you are finished. And” Anna adds, smiling sweetly. “This Video is only the Tip of the Iceberg.”

The Air in the Office is now as cold as Ice.

“And before you get any silly Ideas,” Chris adds – almost pleasantly – “if you have not resigned from your Post in three Hours, this Material, along with corroborating Evidence, will go public. Think about the Scandal.” Now her emerald green Eyes are as cool as Ice: “Think carefully about what you will do. You know what happened to Boris Oblomov?”

Waldenegg has to give her that: The tall blonde Pianist sounds conversational, almost. He knows perfectly well what happened to Boris Oblomov and the close Circle of his Friends …. Someone had taken Revenge. The Assassin had left a black Rose between the Teeth of her Victim. The Rector remembers a Phone Call he had with one of his Russian Friends. What had Arkadi Renko told him?

“[…] Konstantin Chernenko, arms dealer and one of the late Boris´ Oblomov´s best friends, had been found at his private beach, with a bullet in his brains, right between the eyes – and a Black Rose between his teeth.

Two members of his staff testified that they had seen their master walking on the beach with a tall woman with shoulder-length black hair, in a green summer dress, in an animated conversation. They had chatted and laughed; one member of his staff remembered that the woman had spoken Russian fluently.

Lazar Kaganovich had been the next. On his weekly sojourn on his private Golf Course, he had been found with a crossbow bolt in his breast – and a Black Rose between his teeth. Kaganovich had not been the last. Four more members of Oblomov´s inner circle had been killed: each one with a Black Rose between his teeth. [….]”



The Pianist´s melodious Alto Voice breaks the Spell:

Chris looks at Anna, “We're going, Anna!”

They rise. Waldenegg rises too. He stares with undisguised Hate at Chris and Anna. Gone is the Aristocrat. Left is the powerless Predator.

“We will show ourselves out, Herr Hofrat!” Chris smiles.

10 Minutes later, the two Artists step out in the Cold.

“You think he got the Message?” Anna looks Chris in the Eyes. The Blonde looks across the Park into the Distance, then smiles coolly. “He has,” Chris says firmly. She pauses and smiles broadly, “What do you think? Grab a bite here – or have Dinner in Ettal? Esme has a fabulous Roast in the Oven and can hardly wait to get to know you.” “Hard Choice!” The Russian chuckles, “Beam me up, Chris!”


The Rector´s Office:


Waldenegg looks after the two Musicians, still reeling from the Shock.

“I forgot almost about Esmeralda. I did not even recognize her on the Podium in Ettal. She has changed, that little blonde Slut. I told her back then, I would destroy her if she went to the Authorities. I showed her the Videos. Made it clear to her, it would go public.

Now I am in her Place. I have no Idea how von der Marwitz obtained the Material. She must have gotten access to my secret Cloud. But how? What I do know. No, she is not making empty Threads. I sensed the Power under the beautiful Surface. And I understood why Boris Oblomov was fascinated by her, his desire to break her.

What now? I have three Hours …. I pull the Drawer open. It is there. Gleaming. Polished – and fully functional. A Rast & Gasser M1898. The Revolver shimmers in the Light. My Grand Grand Grandfather left it to me: “Use it well!” He told me in his hoarse raspy Voice.

Without knocking, Theodora enters … Get out, I hiss at her. Cancel any Appointment for Today! What are you waiting for? Are you still here? Theodora pouts. She is irritated but hides it well. She closes the Door.

I look at the Revolver … it is fully loaded.


Two Hours later:


Chris and Anna are on the final Stretches to Ettal. Chris is about to beat another Record.

National Media report some News:

“Salzburg:
The Rektor of the famous Mozarteum Salzburg was found dead in his Office. From what is known. Third Party-Responsibility can be ruled out.”


Ettal:

Esme is singing softly to herself, dancing around in the Chalet. Heavenly Scents fill the Room. The young Teacher lifts one Lid from a Pot and inhales the Scent of Red Cabbage. She closes the Lid and lifts another one from a larger Pot: The handmade Potato Dumplings are almost ready. The Recipe is that of her Grandma.

Esme takes a Sip from the rich red Cabernet Sauvignon. She is more the “Rosé-Type” – but this Wine fits perfectly with the Meal she prepared. Chris convinced her to try it

She has no Idea what Chris is doing today in Salzburg. The Blonde declined to say what she is doing. Esme knows the Pianist well enough not to press her. What she knows? Chris can be closed like an Oyster. “Finish some unfinished Business,” She has smiled mysteriously – and bring a Friend – I told you about her!”

The Music Teacher is curious: What Friend?

The tall Blonde is out of the Door before Esme can say a Word. Moments later, she hears a Motor. Chris is gone. Only then does Esme realize what Chris meant by “Bringing a Friend” and “I told you about her.” Could that be? Could it be her? Chris's best Friend?


The Present:


Esme looks at her News Alerts. One piques her Interest. She reads it twice ….. The lithe Blonde takes her Glass and stares into the burning Fireplace … Esme still does not know what Chris did in Salzburg. But Esme feels: Something has come to a close. She told Chris why she did not pursue a Career as a Pianist after graduating from the Mozarteum. What has Chris done in Salzburg? She cannot imagine the Pianist killing Waldenegg in cold Blood. Not after what she had witnessed in Sarastro´s Sanctum.

Esme stares into the Fireplace´s Flames …

“Chris and Anna” will arrive in one Minute!” Charlotte, the Artificial Intelligence, interrupts her.

“Thank you, Charlotte!” Esme smiles.

A Car stops outside. Two Doors shut. Steps of high-heeled Boots.

The young Teacher looks at the massive wooden Door. It swings open. Chris steps over the Threshold, followed by an even taller, dark-haired Woman. In her left Hand, she carries a Violin Case, “Esme.” Chris begins “This is ….” “Anna.” The Violinist smiles, “Just Anna.” She inhales. “Tell me, what is in the Oven?”

Chris´s and Esme´s Eyes meet. The Teacher mouths a “Thank you.”


Chris and the lost Mozart:
The End:
Epilogue, Part I

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Chris is on the final Stretch of her Morning Run. Down in the Valley, she sees the imposing Weinstein Foundation Research Center complex. The four-winged Structure looks like the famous Baroque residence Oberschleissheim near Munich if the original Plans had been completed.

Carl von Winterfeldt had it rebuilt after the original Plans. To the Observer, “The Adlernest,” as Chris likes to call the Complex, looks like the perfect Copy of a Baroque Palace, including the Gardens. With a few Enhancements, the Pianist smiles:

There is, for Instance, underground, the vast Halls, which house the Weinstein Collection. Or the Modern Concert Hall – where tomorrow, an extraordinary Event will take Place. Four Compositions of Mozart will be performed on Stage for the very first Time in the Concert Hall on the Palace Grounds.

Chris accelerates her Tempo. Tomorrow will be the Day she and Esme have prepared for, since in November last Year, they recovered the lost Compositions from their Hiding Place in Ettal Abbey, where Mozart had hidden them over 200 Years ago. It is still unclear why Mozart did this.

The Blonde enjoys the fresh Mountain Air and the Quiet here in the Alps near the Brenner. Tomorrow, this Place will be a Beehive, buzzing with Activity when the Guests from all around the Globe will arrive. Today, Rachel Weinstein – the Heiress of the Weinstein Collection – and an honorary Member of the von der Marwitz-Family, will fly in from the States.

Together with her? Kate Beckett and Castle, Hayley King and her Wife Kirsty. Hayley and Kirsty run the New York Office of Art. Inc. Kriminalrätin Birte Ricciarelli from Europol will join them. They met Birte during the late Stages of the Hunt for the Lost Scrolls.

Sophie, Anna, Merit, and Ragna arrived yesterday. And there are three other Guests: A certain Thief and her latest Pet, and Ekaterina Oblomova. Chris and Esme had been at the Adlernest for three Days – preparing for the Concert.

Chris accelerates a final Time, sprints across the Parade Ground. It is not the first Time she returned to the Adlernest. Like many other Places, the Sprint across the Parade Ground stirs Memories of another Time, when a bloody Battle had taken Place on the Grounds. Chris and her Friends had planned and executed a Surprise Attack on the Enemy:

“Kirsty triggered the mortar, and the first round was in the air. Chris let the next round glide down the barrel.

The Briton triggered the mortar again. In quick succession, they fired twenty Mortar rounds, creating havoc and confusion: smoke, flashbangs, and deadly daisy cutters. Fragments seared through the Air.

Pandemonium reigned on the parade ground: People ducking for cover: Disoriented by flashbangs, blinded by smoke and cut down by daisy cutters: Deadly mortar rounds designed to explode on impact with the ground and detonated a shaped charge which sent out shrapnel in a horizontal pattern in an arc lower than the Podium, leaving Sieglinde untouched.

Brunhild had ducked for cover as the first shots were fired; when she heard the unmistakable screeching sounds of incoming mortar rounds, she bellowed: “Take cover!” Mortar fire incoming!

Time seemed to come to a standstill. Then, as suddenly as the mortar fire had begun, it stopped. […]”



But that was the Past. The Present was the Present – and Chris looks forward to Tomorrow.

She is used to the Limelight, the great Stages of the World – and even despite all her Experience, her Routine? Chris feels a growing Excitement. For Esme, it must be even worse. She senses a growing Restlessness. “No Wonder,” Chris smiles to herself as she walks up the imposing marble Staircase. On the first Floor, the Pianist turns left and follows the long Corridor in the East Wing, which leads to her Apartments.


Esme:


I inhale the cool Mountain Air, step back from the Balcony into my Suite, and stretch. I did sleep well. But I am starting to feel restless again …. Tomorrow will be the Day. The Day of Days! At Times, I still have trouble processing all that has transpired since November.

In Moments like these, I doubt that this is really, really me, the simple Country Girl Esmeralda Kofler from Ettal, Bavaria – who will step out in the Limelight tomorrow together with Chris and play Music which had never been played in Public before. Mozart´s Music. With the Eyes of the World watching me.

I remember a visit to Hamburg, Chris had invited me over to rehearse with her and introduce her “Family” to me. Anna shanghaied me for a Shopping Trip with her in the City. “You need a proper Dress for your Concert!” The Russian loves shopping, I learned.

Chris and her Family have helped me tremendously to cope with all the Changes our Discovery has brought for me. They are a fascinating Group, this Family: Anna, the great Violinist, Merit, the young Egyptian, Ragna the Herculean Icelandress, Sybil, the IT-Genius, and Sophie. Sophie is the Firm´s Lawyer and an immensely gifted Singer.

When we did not rehearse for the Concert, I accompanied Sophie on the Piano. As we arrived here in this hidden Valley, I sensed Sophie had a special Connection to this Place – the Adlernest, as Chris and she call it. Yesterday, after Dinner, she told me about it – how meeting Chris and her Friends changed her Life. I know what she is talking about.

That Chris and my Paths crossed changed my Life too. And it is not alone the Mozart. When I know something about her? She is devoted to her Friends. She does everything for them, as she did for me. I still don´t know what Chris and Anna did in Salzburg. We never talked about that. And I do not need to know it. A World without Egon Bernd Waldenegg is a better Place. He had the Grace to shoot himself. I must give him that.

After Breakfast, Chris and I will rehearse separately first. Then we will play in the Concert Hall Mozart´s Sonata for two Pianos together! I am so looking forward to it! I feel a childlike Enthusiasm!

In the Afternoon – I am told – Rachel Weinstein, the Heiress of the Weinstein Foundation, to whom I owe so much, will arrive, together with Chris´ Friends from the States. I wonder if Richard Castle will sign my Copy of his latest Novel. To see him and Kate Beckett in the Flesh? I am soo giddy with Excitement!

I look at my Watch …. “Tarried enough, Esme!” I scold myself! You have work to do! I hurry into the Bathroom.


The Adlernest, 1230 PM:


Chris looks around: The Group was talking amiably. Sophie and Evie, Ragna and Ekaterina, Anna and Merit. The latest Arrivals had been Sarah McKenzie and Natasha. The Canadian had taken the Russian under her Wings. “And there we thought Boris Oblomov´s former Chief of Security would be just another Plaything.” The Pianist smiles to herself, “We have been wrong” – in fact, it seemed The Black Lady had grown attached to the Russian. In fact, Bolkonskaya and the Masterthief had a lot in common.

Chris Gaze rests on Esme. The young Teacher is restless, and the Pianist understands her. Tomorrow is the Day, the first Time she will be in the limelight. In Chris´ professional Opinion, Esme is ready. There is nothing more to be done. Esme wants to practise for a few more Hours, but Chris has other Plans ….

The Pianist rises and taps her Silver Spoon three Times against her Crystal Goblet. The Group falls silent. Everybody falls silent. Chris looks from one to the other. A small Smile curls the Pianist´s Lips. “Ladies,” she grins, “I think we should use the fine Weather and go for a Hike! The fresh Mountain Air will do us all good! I want you geared up and ready in 60 Minutes! We will meet at the Western Entrance!”

“But I have to practise some more!” Esme objects, “Why don´t you go alone?” Chris smiled, “Esme, this is not open for Discussion.” “But ….” “No Buts,” the tall Blonde declared firmly, “There is nothing more to be done! You are prepared perfectly!” “Fine,” Esme mutters, anything but pleased. But by now, the lithe Blonde knows that any further Discussion is pointless. In the last Months, Esme learned a lot about the Pianist. Enough to know that Chris can be pretty bossy. Esme knows she will go hiking one way or the other.

Esme is the first to leave …. Muttering something under her Breath ….Chris gestures the Others to wait till the young Teacher has left … “She does not know.” Anna smiles, “No.” Chris grins, “Ladies, we have work to do!” The Pianist smiles at Natasha and Sarah, “You know what to do!”

“Of course!” The Masterthief grins, “I like your Idea!” “I knew,” Chris smiles …. Some Distraction was exactly what Esme needed ….


On the Road to the Adlernest: Late Afternoon:


A long, straight Road leads through a Valley near the Brenner Pass. The Road is fairly new and seldom used. Tourists don´t use it frequently. Two black Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 SUVs are headed South. Their Destination? The Adlernest.

A blonde, voluptuous Blonde with piercing blue Eyes drives the first Car. Riding Shotgun is a tall auburn auburn-haired Woman who has a striking Resemblance to the Actress Jaclyn Smith, who played one of Charlie´s Angels in the famous Series of the 70´s.

Kirsty King-Garrett sensed her Wife´s Tension. “Nervous, Sweetheart?” The Briton, born in a small Hamlet in rural Norfolk, former second in Command of a Criminal Enterprise, and Recipient of the Victoria Cross, knows the Blonde well enough. She smiles. They had married at the Hamptons almost one Year ago – and so far, Married Life is good. Kirsty knows the Reason for Hayley´s Nervousness.

“Nervous?” She teases her Wife, “Shut up.” Hayley huffs. They both know that Road and where it leads to. The last Time they were here was two Years ago. In another Life. Their Boss, Elizabeth Crawford, had tasked them to abduct Chris and to deliver her to the Tycoon Carl von Winter. Hayley and Kirsty used this Operation to escape Crawford's Grip. The Criminal Mastermind was obsessed with Hayley.

Meeting Chris and her Friends was a Blessing, Hayley muses. Kirsty and she had become Part of the Von-der-Marwitz-Family. The Pianist offered them a Chance for a fresh Start: They run the New York-based Office of Art Inc.

“I know why you are nervous,” Kirsty smiles at her Wife, “and it's perfectly fine, my love!” She points ahead, “Look! There it is!” Before them, a massive Wall, built of perfectly cut Granite Boulders, bars the Valley Ground from West to East. In its Centre, a massive double-winged Gate of wrought Iron. Nobody passes that Gate without proper Credentials.

They are expected: The massive Wings open noiselessly and close behind them.

Kirsty thinks back: They landed in Innsbruck in the early Afternoon. “They” are Kirsty and Hayley, Rachel Weinstein, her Personal Assistant, Kate Beckett, and Castle and Birte Ricciarelli.

Tomorrow, a special Guest will fly in. The Briton smiles: Chris has no Idea he is coming. It is a Surprise. Tomorrow´s Concert is a great Family Reunion.

Too bad 007 cannot make it: Some super-secret Mission for King and Country in the Service of His Majesty. Anna is seeing the Agent with the License to Kill for almost two Years now. They are a beautiful Pair: The fiery Offspring of the noble and ancient House of Romanov and the taciturn Briton, who prefers his Martinis shaken, not stirred.

The other Car:


Richard Castle is excited, like a Child about to open his Christmas Presents. Beckett loves this childlike Enthusiasm – when they are not working a Case, “I looked the Original Plans up!” Castle tells her, “This Place must be massive! And is it really a Copy of Oberschleißheim Palace? Really, as in really?”

“Chris told me so!” Beckett smiles. They have passed the Gates and drive now through a Forest. Massive Trees to the left and right. Sophie told her once about a Training Exercise she had here while being Carl von Winterfeldt´s Guest. Kate and the former District Attorney have become firm Friends, since they met during the Hunt for the Weinstein Collection.

This is the first Time she enters the Palace Grounds this Way. On their Rescue Mission two Years ago, they used the Backdoor “Look!” Castle interrupts her Musings. The Woods recede, and before them looms the southern Façade of a Baroque Palace. And Kate is impressed against her Will: Carl von Winterfeldt is a murderous Bastard, but one with Taste. What has he created here in the Austrian Alps near the Brenner? It is a Marvel.

She smiles: “I wonder what he thinks? We have foiled his Schemes. And to know that Rachel Weinstein, the Heiress of the Weinstein Collection, turned his Lair into a Place where Researchers from around the Globe can study the precious Artifacts of the Weinstein Collection at their Leisure, giving them back to the World?

That must hurt von Winterfeldt almost as much as the Loss of his left Eye and his right Hand. Since the Heidelberg Affair von Winterfeldt has been silent. But they all know he is not gone for good. He is looming still into the Shadows. Biding his Time. It would not surprise Beckett if he has found a way to watch the Concert tomorrow. But they will deal with him.

Rachel Weinstein watches Kate from the Backseat. She has a certain Idea of what the Detective is thinking. Since Chris and her Friends defeated von Winterfeldt, she has been frequently here in the Alps. That the Pianist recovered the Collection of her Great Grandfather was a small Wonder, and Rachel is deeply grateful. She knows that Oskar Weinstein is very pleased that his Collection is no longer hidden from the World. And he would be delighted that the Compositions of Mozart, Chris, and Esme recovered in Ettal have now become Part of the Collection, and tomorrow Chris and Esme will bring them to Life.

Yes, Oscar Weinstein will be pleased, and Carl von Winterfeldt will watch. Consumed by his Hate and impotence.

Yes, tomorrow will be a good Day!


The Adlernest: Concert Hall, around the same Time


Chris walks through the Foyer of the Concert Hall. The Contrast between the Concert Hall and the Palace always amazes her. The Palace is a Copy. An impressive one. A Copy of a Baroque Palace as it would have looked when its Builder would have had the Funds to complete it. This Replica is pure von Winterfeldt: Look! I have the Power, the Money, the Resources to build this.

The Concert Hall is different. The Concert Hall is no mere Copy. The Concert Hall is an Artwork on its own. As Chris knows by now? Carl von Winterfeldt acquired the famous Architect Seiji Ozawa for this Project. The Concert Hall is a Symphony in Glass, Stone, and Wood. Simple. Elegant. Its Form is simple: Like the circular Tower of a Medieval Fortress. But made of Stone and Glass.

Chris steps through the Main Portal on the Floor Level, stops, and takes her Time to take the Atmosphere in. In some Ways, it reminds the Blonde of a Baroque Theatre. But only in Form. Seiji Ozawa forwent any Embellishment. No Gold. No Pomp. Just purity. Chris understands the Concept behind that Simplicity very well. Nothing should distract the Visitor from what is happening on the Stage. Today, only two Grand Piano´s stand on the Stage. Two Faziolis. Two F 308 – “the absolute 'jewel in the crown', designed for modern large-capacity concert halls and very big spaces”. As the Manufacturer promotes his Instrument. Not that Chris falls for that Parlance. What matters for her is the pure Quality of the Instrument. Crown Jewel or not.

What impresses her always when she enters this Concert Hall? The Wall behind the Stage: It is made of Glass. A gigantic Panorama Window made of the finest Glass. Outside loom the majestic Mountains of the Alps. Sitting behind the Keyboard is almost like playing outside – at least it feels that way. The Hall´s Acoustics are among the best Chris knows.

Even here, at the Entrance to the Main Floor, she can hear every Note that the Man behind the left Grand Piano is playing. Crystal clear. Chris smiles as she watches the Man. A Benedictine Monk is playing here. Especially that Monk.

Chris remembers a Scene one Week after Rector Waldenegg ended his Life. She had an Appointment with Father Severinus. As she walked through the Corridors, she heard someone playing the Piano. Mussorgsky: Pictures of an Exhibition. And quite good, as she could tell. The Blonde waited before the Music Room. Gently, she opened the Door. As silent as a Ghost. Stealthily, she crossed the Threshold.


At the Bechstein Grand Piano sat a Man. A Monk. Chris smiled. Not any Monk. But Father Malachias. The Pianist recognized him.. The same misogynistic Monk who had scolded her, What she was doing in the Library “Hypocrite!” The Blonde had to smile. And an Idea crossed her Mind …. That would be fun! And would teach Father Malachias a Lesson.

Patiently, Chris waited till the Monk played the last Note. Then she applauded. Father Malachias whirled around. “Father” Chris smiled, “That was brilliant!” She chuckled, “And I thought you despise any Music after Palestrina!”

The Benedictine was entirely speechless. “Father” Chris bowed lightly. “I have a Proposal for you …..”

And so, it came that several Months later Father Malachias was practising at the Adlernest. Rehearsing Sergei Eduardovich Bortkiewicz´s third Piano Concerto. The Orchestral Part. Chris would play the Solo. Chris had transcribed the Orchestral Score herself:

S. Bortkiewicz - Piano Concerto Nr. 3 op.32 - "Per aspera ad astra"

It had taken some serious Conversations to convince Father Malachias. Finally, the Abbott had ordered the stubborn Monk to fulfill the Task “Ad majorem Dei Gloria” Abbott Conradin had concluded firmly,” Chris was surprised. That the modest Abbott displayed that Kind of Authority had surprised her.

Chris was not heartless. She had arranged that Father Malachias got a modest Suite in the Palace and use the Palace´s Chapel at his leisure. Their first Rehearsals were a bit tense. But Chris had resisted teasing the Monk too much. She had been tempted to dress to the Nines. But as she had told him the first time they had rehearsed in Ettal eight Weeks ago? “Father, it does not matter if you like me or not. We have to fulfill a duty. I would not go that far as to call it sacred. But I know you love Music as much as I do.” She had smiled mischievously, “I do not believe in your God, but I do believe that a Spirit is embodied in this Music. Our Task is to bring it to Life. Can we start?”

Since then, they had developed a sort of Relationship. Father Malachias did not like her, but he respected her as a Musician. And that was enough. Malachias had even surprised her. He was a highly skilled Pianist. Why did he become a Monk instead of a Pianist on the Stages of the World? That remained a Mystery. Even Sybil had not been able to find out more. And to Chris, it did not matter.

She walks down the Aisle. Her white Nike Running Shoes make no Sound on the polished wooden Floor. Chris had donned her “rehearsal Outfit” for this Time of Year: Running Shoes. Red Yoga Pants, a white Tank Top, and a red Fleece Jacket.

Chris smiles. Malachias just embarks on the Finish of the Concerts fifth Section “Moderato.” “He is really good,” She muses, “He plays the Orchestral Part perfectly.” Malachias steps into the Background whenever necessary. To let the Solo Piano shine. It had been hard work to achieve that Balance. They butted Heads several Times.

Once or twice, the Benedictine had lost every Ounce of Benedictine Gravitas and Humilitas. Once he had even stormed off the Podium, muttering something not very polite about Women in General and Chris in Particular. Chris was fairly certain he had called her an obnoxious Bitch – in Latin.

In Time, they had reached an Understanding – and learned that the other had expertise his Partner had not expected. Malachias had been very surprised that he could discuss the finer Points of Palestrina’s polyphonic Techniques with her. That the Benedictine was well versed in Japanese had surprised Chris very much.

True, it had been hard work, “But we made it work.” Chris smiles as she walks nearer to the Podium, “Ad majorem Dei Gloriam!” She stops and waits patiently till Father Malachias is finished. Chris knows he is aware of her Presence. And he knows she knows. It is one of their little Games. Finally, he takes his Hands off the Keyboard and turns his Head to Chris.

“Revered Father” Chris folds her Hands before her Breasts and bows – deeply. One had to know the Pianist very, very well, to detect the slightest Ounce of Jest in her polite Greeting. If the Benedictine does? He doesn´t show “Frau von der Marwitz,” he acknowledges the Blonde. “Father” Chris smiles mischievously. “How many Times have I told you to call me Christine?” “And I told you that would be improper.” The Monk responds dryly. Chris is not entirely sure, but she knows Father Malachias well enough by now. “Do I detect a touch of humour here?”

Malachias just looks back, impassive. “Right then,” Chris adds brightly, mounts the Podium with three quick Steps and takes her Seat at the other Fazioli. The Piano-Firm offered to send a technician over from Milano to tune the instruments, which Chris politely declined. She always adjusts the mechanics herself. The pianist was quite surprised that Father Malachias is quite versed in tuning instruments, too. His Hearing is almost as perfect as her own.

The Benedictine watches as Chris warms up. He cannot help himself, but with Time his Respect for the tall Blonde has grown. Not that he would admit that to the Blonde. But her Technique and her intuitive Grasp of the Composer's Intentions were immense. When she approached him with her Proposal – no, it had been more of an Ultimatum – to play Sergei Bortkiewicz´s third Concerto, they had the first of some rows. “So, playing Bortkiewicz is beyond you?” The Pianist had challenged him, “I don´t think holy Benedict would condone that level of Superbia,” and quoted the Rule of Saint Benedict verbatim – in Latin.

He had relented in the End – and buried some long harboured Prejudices since their first Meeting. Malachias is always fascinated when Chris plays – on a strictly professional level, of course.

Chris plays Scales, Jumps, with accelerating Speed – but never missing a Key. She ends with a Series of Accords. The last one resonates through the Hall. She looks up, a small Smile curls her Lips. “Father, where do we start?”

Malachias nods, “Third Section, Andante, Bar 252. The last Time you were off Key there.” “Right,” Chris agrees, “Let us begin then!” She enjoys this. The Monk is a Perfectionist who knows the Score as good as she does. The Strive for Perfection? They share that.

Chris concentrates, breathes in deeply, closes her Eyes, her Hands hovering above the Keyboard. She plays the first Notes ….


Later in the Evening, Dinner:


Esme:

I lean back contentedly, rubbing my Belly. I am stuffed. The Crème Brulée with Strawberry Sorbet? It was the proverbial icing on the Cake. The large Dining Room is filled with animated Chatter and Laughter. Different Languages. English, German, Russian – and another one I don´t know: Anna is talking with her Lady in Waiting – in Egyptian?

This is the first Time I meet all the Members of the von der Marwitz Family. Father Malachias has declined to join us – I don´t miss him, though. What is he doing here? I don´t know. Chris refused to tell me anything. It has something to do with the Concert, though.

The von der Marwitz Family is really an interesting Mix: Today arrived Rachel Weinstein, her Personal Assistant, Kate Beckett, and Richard Castle. Then there are Kirsty and Hayley – and Birte Ricciarelli – A Cop of Europol.

Chris is planning something. I know her well enough by now. That mischievous Smile … All is well, though. Tomorrow will be the Day. The Day we worked so hard for. Whatever happens today, I will enjoy it. What have I learned since I met Chris and her Family? They love to play Games … I look around and my Gaze met the one of the Canadian. Sarah McKenzie. Her Black Eyes can give one the Creeps. A small Smile curls her Lips. Sinister? Mischievous? And there is that Russian: Natalia Bolkonskaya … I don´t know what is between them … But both give me the Creeps …

Chris:


I watch Esme. She is way more relaxed than in the Morning. The Hike after Lunch did her good. She is a bit overwhelmed, meeting the Rest of the Family. Somehow, she was afraid to meet Rachel. But Rachel is good at putting People at Ease. Rachel is very relaxed, too. The Relationship with Hayley´s Father does her good. Hayley´s Face at her Wedding was priceless when the Commissioner presented Rachel as her new Partner.

Esme has no Idea what we planned for the later Night …


The Evening:


“Tell me, Rachel!” The Black Lady teases the Heiress, who had a striking Resemblance to Queen Maxima of the Netherlands. “Tell me, do you play these Games with the Commissioner too? Does Hayley know about it?” The Blonde mumbles something into her packed Mouth. For obvious Reasons:

The Masterthief had turned the voluptuous Blonde into a nude Nylon-Mummy: From Head to Toe, the Blonde had been encased in several Layers of Pantyhose – after the black-Canadian taped her long Legs in six Places together, her Arms and Elbows behind her Back.

“No?” Sarah McKenzie chuckles, “Hayley does not know?” Rachel shakes her Head. That is the only Communication Option: The Masterthief has packed two Pairs of Panties and the hiking Socks she wore today in the Blonde´s Mouth.

“You know,” The Masterthief smiles and looks down at her Prey “For an old Lady you have a bodacious Sets of Boobs” The Black-Lady cups Rachel´s Breasts “You disagree?” she teases the Blonde “In fact your Boobs are almost as bodacious as those of another Blonde we know!”

Casually, the Canadian plays with Rachel´s rock-hard Nipples. The Heiress moans and writhes on the Bed, as much as her Nylon Restraints allow, which is not much. With a devious Smile, McKenzie stretches her long, left nylon-clad leg out and presses the Sole firmly on Rachel´s Nose, while she kneads the Blonde´s left Breast firmly with her right Hand.

Indignant, muffled Protests interrupt the Play. But it is not Rachel. “Don´t go away, Rachel!” The Thief grins deviously and jumps from the Bed, elegantly like a large black Cat. Sarah McKenzie wears a silken black Negligee and black Pantyhose. With swaying Hips, she saunters to the third Woman in the Room: A tall, muscular, black-haired Woman, her shimmering curly black Tresses braided into a Ponytail. She does not wear much: Black Panties, black Pantyhose, and a black Stocking Cap, which obscure her Features.

Natasha Bolkonskaya dances on the Balls of her right Foot. Her left Foot is pressed firmly against her firm Butt. The strappado is tied in, and it is one of the strict Sorts: Her upper body is almost parallel to the floor. The Russian is forced to look straight ahead: Her Braid is tied Back to her bound Wrists. A massive Harness-Ball-Gag ensures Silence.

From a Sideboard, the Masterthief selects a Riding Crop. “Shut up!” the Canadian commands her Padavan. With a casual Flick, she hits Natasha´s right Butt-Check. Hard and precise, “I told you not to interrupt me!” “Zap, Zap!” She hits a second and third Time, “Behave or you will find sitting tomorrow difficult!” The Russian mumbles something …something that sounds like “I apologize”

“I see we understand each other!” The Canadian chuckles and smiles: This will be a long evening! “I wonder what Blondie is doing right now!”


Another Suite around the same Time:


Yes, what is a certain Blonde doing? Chris, clad in a pair of lacy red Bra and Panties and a Pair of nude Hose, is lying in the Centre of her king-size bed. A smile curls her Lips. She is not alone. At her left Side lies a Nylon Mummy and at her right Side too. Her left Hand massages the full right Breast of the smaller of the two Mummies, her right Hand massages the left Breast of the second Mummy. One Mummy is smaller than the other, but with an impressive Set of Assets. The second is taller, her Breasts full but not as large as those of the other Mummy.

Both Mummies moan and squirm around as much as their Cocoons allow. A low Buzz tells the Observer that Vibrating Eggs are doing their devilish Work.

Esme:

I am hot and sweaty inside my Nylon Prison. How did I land here? In Chris´ Suite, together with Birte Ricciarelli, the Cop from Europol? After Dinner, the black-haired Canadian, Sarah-McKenzie, and Chris exchanged a look, and the Woman in Black stood. “We all know that our revered Leader,” she smiles at Chris, “Is not the one for long-winded Speeches, so she deferred the Task to me!” Polite Applause greeted those Words – and I have the feeling all the others knew what would come – Excitement is in the Air … “Tomorrow is a stressful day,” the Canadian announces, “So the Reminder of the Evening is devoted to Relaxation ….”

And now I am here … with vibrating Eggs in my Pussy and my Anus. Taped and encased like the Ghost tied her Prey up …. Chris has been thorough … One Layer of Tape, one Layer of Nylon. Four Times. The Gag is thorough, too … The Pianist has packed one large silken Scarf and a Pair of sweaty Gym Socks in my Mouth. One Scarf ensures the Packing stays in … Chris squeezes and massages my left Breast …. This is heaven and hell. Orgasm Land is so near and yet so far. I strain against my Nylon Prison …. Chris stops massaging my Breast, the Vibrations get stronger …..

Chris smiles as she watches her two Guests. Moaning and writhing on the Bed. Time for some Selfbondage … The Blonde has already prepared. Jolly Rogers latest Version is lodged into her Vagina. The Crotch-Scarf is tight – the Knots rest where they should.

With skilled Hands, Chris ties her legs together: Ankles, Calves, under the Knees, and above. Midthigh. With a String, she ties her big toes together. She rubs her legs together. The Blonde loves that Sound! Next! An extra-large Pair of Nude Pantyhose – Chris pulls it over her legs, and finally over her Waist.

“What is real Bondage without a Gag?” The Pianist chuckles and takes a Pair of black lace Panties. Anna has been generous – and aroused, Chris smiles around the large Wad in her Mouth. But there is always Room for one more – two to be exact: One red Thong in her left and one green flimsy Affair in the left Cheek.

Chris touches her bulging Cheeks and selects a very large, very long silken Scarf. This will do the Trick. She wraps it three Times around her Head and Mouth before she knots it tightly behind her Head. Now the stocking Cap! Chris has to smile as she lies back on her Cushion – after she tied a second Scarf over her already gagged Mouth.

Esme and Birte are radiating Heat in Waves. Chris takes a small remote Control and activates a complex Program. Now Charlotte will take Control. The Blonde massages the Breasts of her two Guests. The Vibrators begin their magic Work … tonight will be Bliss.

And it is still young ….


In the West Wing:


Kate Beckett enjoys the soft Silk under her Skin. In the Bathroom, she can hear Castle sing. Some Broadway Number his Mother performed so often. Castle performs with Enthusiasm and totally off-key. Not that Kate does mind. She flexes her feet and opens and closes her Fists. Not that she can do much more. Her beloved Husband has spread-eagled her with silken Scarves on their Bed. Tightly but not uncomfortably. Kate wears her baby blue Set of silken Bra and Panties. Castle loves that one. She grates her Hips. And feels the Crotch-Scarfs Knots.

Kate is about to explode as she strains against her silken Bonds – playfully, of course. She enjoys the Darkness: Castle has blindfolded her with a broad, dark blue Scarf. Her Husband loves Scarves on her. He has gagged her with one large, cleave gagged her with a second, and tied a third one over it. The fourth was a Headscarf like in the old Hollywood Movies, like Grace Kelly in Catch a Thief.

Castle has stopped singing. Kate hears him closing the Bathroom Door. She listens to his soft Footfalls. They stop. She knows his standing at the Foot of the Bed and looking down on her. She can almost feel his Look. What can she not see? The Writer is bowing down. With his left he takes Kate´s left Ankle. Lifts it… With the right Hand, though ….

Kate almost jumps out of Bed as Castle tickles her viciously under the high Arches of her left Foot. He knows all her soft Spots …. Her high Arches are one of them … the soft Flesh of her Balls another – and this Spot between the left Big Toe and the next …..

Kate howls into her packed Mouth, begs him to stop, begs him to continue … This is only the beginning ….

Kate is not the only one to have some fun this Evening:


Ragna´s and Ekaterina´s Suite:



Ekaterina Oblomova looks at her Face in the Mirror of the spacious Bathroom – and smiles. She has bound her ashen blond Hair in a loose bun. The Russian takes a small Bottle of Perfume. Penhaligon’s Halfeti. Ekaterina loves it: What had the Accountant told her when she had purchased it in London? “So, this is love. An intoxicating, mysterious fragrance: vigorous grapefruit, oud, Levantine spice, and rose tangle in the moonlight. But what’s that upon the riverbank? Could it be the fabled black rose?”

A few Drops between her Breasts, under the Armpits, her Wrists – now the Blonde smiles coyly at her mirror Image – and some down South … She enjoys these Days in these Alps, together with her beloved Valkyrie. Ekaterina considers it an honour to have been invited to the Concert tomorrow. This will be an Occasion for the Books: For the first Time, previously unknown Compositions of Mozart will go public. And she, Ekaterina, the Daughter of the late Oligarch Boris Oblomov, will be present.

Softly she sings a Russian Lullaby, her Mother sang it for her when she was a Child, always, every night. Ekaterina looks into the Mirror once more. “I love that burgundy Nightie!” It ends right above the Knees. She looks down at her nyloned Toes: The Nail Polish matches the Nightie too. Ekaterina smiles, “Ragna loves the Nightie too!” Ragna, her beloved Icelandress … She turns on her Heels and steps into the Suite, she and the herculean Blonde share.

Soft classical Music fills the Room—Mendelssohn's “Songs without Words.” Ragna is present. She cannot see the Russian but senses her Presence. Ekaterina enjoys the View and feels the Heat. Her Pulse quickens. Ragna does that, especially when she is tied up and gagged—normally, it is the other Way around: Normally, Ekaterina ends up tied up and tightly gagged on the Bed.

Today is one of these Occasions, it is Ragna who is tied up – and tightly gagged. She is truly one of Odin´s Daughters, Ekaterina thinks, as her Gaze glides lazily above Ragna´s bound Body. Beginning at the nyloned Toes:

Ekaterina has tied her Beloved Toes together and tied them to her Ankle Bonds. Her Ankles are tied to the Bed´s Footrest. Ragna tries to move her Size 10 Feet. But to no avail. Ekaterina´s Gaze glides upwards: White Rope ensnares Ragna´s Calves. Her Legs under her Knees, above. Mid-thigh and Right under her Crotch.

Ekaterina knows that Ragna has inserted a Vibrator into her Pussy and tied a Crotchrope under light blue Nightie. Her Wrists are tied to the left and the right of the Headboard. And there is the Gag and the Blindfold: Under the bright blue silken Band which covers her Face from Chin to Nose? The Russian has stuffed three Panties in Ragna´s Mouth. Used ones. One belongs to Ragna, one to her, and Anna contributed the third one.

The Icelandress is blindfolded, but she seems to look right at her. Ekaterina steps forward. Gentle. Her nyloned Feet make no Noise on the lush Carpet. She comes nearer: She smells Ragna´s powerful Scent. It is intoxicating. With a wicked Smile, Ekaterina jumps on the Bed and straddles the Icelandress.

The Russian kisses Ragna full on her gagged Mouth and cups the Valkyrie´s firm, full D-cups. The Blonde groans with Pleasure. “My Love,” Ekaterina whispers hoarsely, “This will be a wonderful Night!” She holds something before Ragna´s Eyes – and presses a Button. “You will love that!” The Blonde steels herself. “She really did it! She brings an Electronic Toothbrush!”

Ekaterina turns around and bows down. Ragna´s Size 10 Feet are in Range now … She switches it on and touches the Balls of Ragna´s left Sole. The Pantyhose make the Sensation even stronger … it will be a long night.


There are other Ways to relax.


Kirsty´s and Hayley´s Suite:


“Tell me, Love, you don´t like this?” Kirsty let her Fingers glide above the Skin of Hayley´s Decollete. Above the right Breast, she can feel the thin Lines of Scar Tissue. They remind her always how lucky she is to still have her Wife. Seven Months ago, a Bomb almost killed Hayley. An Attack ordered by Elizabeth Crawford. Crawford paid the ultimate Price. She is gone.

Kirsty caresses the Scars, goes deeper. Cupping Hayley´s Breasts with her Hands. She sits behind her Wife. Her Breasts pressing against the Blonde´s Back. Gently, the Briton breathes Kisses on Hayley´s Neck. She feels the American shuddering as she places one Kiss to the next down the Spine.

Kirsty feels Hayley´s dry Skin – she smells the Body Crème her Wife is using. The Aroma of Lemon and black Pepper. Hayley´s Skin is slightly rosy. The Blonde groans softly with Pleasure. Kirsty has tied her Arms in a Box Tie. It compresses her Breasts.

Hayley is stark naked, except for a Pair of nude Pantyhose and for her Pair of Sapphire Blue Panties, which match her Eyes so perfectly. Eyes that can´t see right now: Thanks to a silken Scarf, which matches her Panties and her Gag – the outer Layer at least. It covers her Face from Chin to Nose. Beneath? Two more Layers. A sweaty Sock and a second Scarf. Under that: Three Pairs of Panties. Kirsty has tied her legs in frog-tie fashion. Her Soles pressed against each other. Her Big Toes were tied too, as were her Insteps.

The Briton loves the Sound as Hayley rubs her nyloned Soles against each other

“You have such beautiful Breasts,” Kirsty purrs and cups the Blonde´s Breasts, squeezes them. Hayley groans, “Tell me, my Love – shall we play a bit?” The Girl from Norfolk smiles, “There is that vibrating Egg between your Soles – and the Vibrator … you are so wet …my Love … I have something .. “ She smiles and produces a thick white Cloth … doused with Chloroform.

Hayley is horny – to say the least. Skillfully, Kirsty has played her …. She smells a familiar Scent in the Air … sweetly … intoxicating …. This Scent Hayley knows way too well – and loves it, nevertheless. When Kirsty wields the Cloth …. Gently Kirsty presses the Cloth on Hayley´s Nose. “Breathe,” her Wife whispers. Hayley inhales the sickly sweet Vapours … The Commissioner´s Daughter has a high Tolerance against the potent Fumes. So, she feels just a tingling in her Fingers and her Toes.

Kirsty takes the Cloth away and Hayley enjoys the fresh Air. She feels a bit lightheaded …. The Vibrator is buzzing …. “What do you think, Hayley? Another Round?” Kirsty smiles and presses her Breasts firmly against her Back before she presses the chloroform-doused Cloth on Hayley´s face. More firmly. Longer this Time.

Hayley feels dizzier now and wonders what Sophie and Evie, the Lawyer and the Egyptologist, are doing right now. They met Sophie here for the first Time two Years ago. A lot has happened since then …

But it is the Present that Matters.


Somewhere else in the Palace, one Hour earlier:


“I have a Surprise for you, for us!” Sophie Reichenbach smiles at Evi. Evi Callahan is a renowned Egyptologist who works currently in London at the British Museum. The Lawyer and the Egyptologist met during the Hunt for the Lost Scrolls – and fell in Love. Sophie got divorced from her Husband, Lucas, the Son of Hermann-Carl Reichenbach. Reichenbach Senior was Part of a right-wing Network and a Sadist who blackmailed Sophie into being his Bondage Toy. Only Chris´ Intervention saved her. But that is the Past.

“What Surprise?” Evi, who looks much like Rachel Weisz, presses her Partner as they walk one of the Palace´s long Corridors to their Suite. “And why are Anna and Merit joining us?” “You will see!” The Lawyer with Italian Roots smiles enigmatically, “Let´s say, we need their Help for the Surprise ….” Now the Egyptologist is very excited – and curious.

“She is so cute, when she pouts that way,” Anna chuckles as they walk the long Marble Corridor with its many impressive Paintings on the Walls. These are Originals, as the Russian knows, “How does it feel for you being here again, Sophie?” The former District Attorney shrugs, “The first Time was strange, but that feeling has receded.” She pauses, “You think Evi will like the Surprise?” Sophie switches the Subject. “Oh, I think she will!” Anna´s smile is almost sinister now. “And Merit has no Idea what lies in Store for her – later!”

They stop before the Door to Sophie´s and Evi´s Suite. The Lawyer enters the Code – and the double-winged Door opens with a soft Click. “Come and see!” The Quartet enters the Apartment. Evi stops dead in her Tracks as she spots what is lying on the Bed. “Wow!” she stammers, “You like it?” Sophie smiles innocently. The Egyptologist steps nearer: On the Bed, two fully lofted up Sets of the Enhanced Restraining System, one in green and one in silver-grey. “Those are so soft!” Evi marvels as she lets her Hand glide above the gargantuan Cocoon:

“So, Ladies!” Anna claps in her Hands. “Sophie and Evi, you go into the Bathroom and change!” Giggling like two besotted Teenagers, the Lawyer and the Egyptologist prance into the Bathroom ….


Thirty Minutes later:


“That was hard Work, Mistress!” Merit smiles at the Russian – and points at the two massive Cocoons lying on the Bed – now no longer empty, as soft rustling Noises tell them “And now Anna?” She bats her Eyelashes coyly. “Now,” the Violinist smiles, “We will leave our two Lovebirds to their own Devices – and then it is Time for your Surprise, Lady Merit!”

“Charlotte?” Anna addresses the AI as they are on their way out, “Start the Program in ten Minutes!” “Of course, Anna!” The AI confirms politely. The Door closes behind Anna and Merit and Sophie and Evi are alone ….in their Cocoons.


Evie:

Hayley was right! Those Contraptions are incredibly comfy! I can see nothing. I can hear nothing! Not a thing! The Sleepmask, the Spandexhood, and the Earbuds rob me of all Sight and Hearing. I shift in my Cocoon. I know that the heavily downfilled Suit is an enhanced Model, even better than the one we used on Chris in Egypt. The Sensation of the thick Diaper around my Groin – and there is that torpedo-style Vibrator Sophie inserted in my Pussy. I returned the Favour!

My Love tied me up with relish, after we donned our fashionable Suits. I chuckle! The Gag is a heavily padded Panelgag with a very, very large foam Ball in its Centre. Soph made it tight. As she did, the three padded Straps that hold my Arms against my Body.

My shackled and mitted Wrists are connected to a Spandex Girdle around my Waist. The most uncomfortable Strap is the one directly under my Groin, which makes me feel the bulky Diaper even more. Four more Straps hold my Legs together – Ankles heavily shackled. The two small Straps around my Insteps. The Cuff around my big Toes is pure Overkill.

I can hardly wait! Now!!! The Vibrator!! It starts to pulsate! As do the countless small Knobs pressing into my Soles, the ones behind my Knees! On the Inside of my Thighs! And the ones pressing into the soft Flesh of my Breasts! Suddenly, I hear a different Noise! The Moans of a Woman in Heat! That must be Sophie!

The Vibrator pulsates ever stronger! I strain against my Restraints, my downfilled Prison! This will be the Humdinger of an Orgasm! Out of the Blue, all Vibrations stop! Frustrated I curse into my Gag! But just as my Breathing has returned to normal? The devilish Instruments begin again! I wonder what Anna has in Store for Merit …. This is my last sane Thought for a While ….


In Palace´s Dungeons:



Merit:


Together with Anna, I stand before a massive wooden Door, with three different Looks. If I counted the Stairs correctly, we are on the third Level of the Cellars. My Mistress opens the last Lock and opens the heavy Door, which moves noiselessly. I follow Anna and gasp in Astonishment ….

The vast, cavernous Room looks like the Chambers of Pain I know from Pharaoh´s Palace – but there are some Instruments I don´t know. I follow Anna to a Contraption, which looks like some Rack …. Where have I seen it before?

Anna´s Voice cracks like a Whip! Strip Lady Merit!! Now! Her Voice is darker, colder now ….


Thirty Minutes later:


Anna:

I look down at Merit's stringently stretched Body ….. She is on the Rack. But a computer-controlled Rack. At the Moment, Merit´s Body is stretched to the Maximum. Her lithe, trained Body glistening with Sweat. Her Eyes are wide above the Gag. The Panel Gag hides a copious Amount of Gag Packing: Anna´s and Merit´s hiking Socks. But not the ones from today! Those in question are four Days old – and well matured. A soft Click indicates that the Rack has completed its Cycle. Slowly, Merit´s Body relaxed – before the next Cycle would begin anew.

Merit's feet are imprisoned at about the Level of Anna's breasts, and the prisoner's toes had all been individually bound with thin rawhide thongs, splayed, and tied to small eyebolts in the stock-like clamps.

The Egyptians´ Feet are hideously vulnerable in that Position: Anna cannot resist the Temptation to tickle Merit´s Feet thoroughly. Her Lady-in-Waiting´s pitiful Noises are well muffled.

Merit does not know that, but Anna will not overdo it. Three more Cycles on the Rack – and then Russian will release her and reward the young Egyptian at their Apartment Upstairs. This Day has been fun – and the evening even more!

Tomorrow will be Esme´s great Day. Anna had heard her rehearsing several Times – and they played even several Times together. Esme has immense Talent – tomorrow she will show it to the World.

After Waldenegg dines now in Hell, Esme started to blossom like a Rose after the Frost thawed.


 


Chris´ Apartment around the same Time:


The Pianist basks in the Afterglow of a thunderous Orgasm. Esme and Birte are returning from Orgasm Country slowly, their Breasts heaving. Chris smiles under her Gag. Charlotte has navigated them to a simultaneous Orgasm. The Blonde flexes her bound and encased Feet and sighs contentedly in her fully packed Mouth.

“Now it is Time for another Surprise,” Chris smiles. From her left Nightstand, she takes a brown glass bottle filled with clear Liquid and two thick white Cloths. She unscrews the Bottle, and the sweet Fumes of Chloroform fill the Room. The Pianist douses the Cloths heavily with the Drug.

Neither Esme nor Birte can see what she is doing since Chris has blindfolded them with Silk Scarves. But they can smell. Chris lies down on the Bed again, holding in each Hand one chloroform-soaked Cloth.

Esme and Birte are clearly surprised as the Blonde presses the Cloths simultaneously on their nylon-covered Faces. In her Head, Chris counts to ten and takes the Cloths away, gives her Victims a short respite before she presses the Cloths on their Faces again. The Blonde repeats the Procedure several Times before the Teacher and the Cop finally succumb to the potent Drug.

Chris takes a Dust mask, douses it with Chloroform, and places it on her Face. She leans back, takes long and deep Breaths …. At the same Time, Charlotte activates the Vibrator again. Chris loves the Combination of Chloroform and the Magic of Jolly Roger. In her Opinion it makes the Experience even more intense. She flexes her Feet. She feels already a slight tingling in her Toes, as the soporific Fumes do their Magic …..


Somewhere, sometime on Board of a Gulfstream Jet:


“That Single Malt?” The Man with long Black Hair, an Eagle´s Nose, and two Tattoos on his Cheeks and one on his Forehead nods contentedly, “It is? – How do you say? – rich?” His English is excellent, with a foreign Accent though ….

The blonde Man with chiselled Features smiles, “It is from the Isle of Skye – and produced in small Quantities only.” He toasts the other Man with his Drink, a Wodka-Martini “Cheers!” “Cheers!” The other Man replies.

For a Moment, they enjoy their Beverages in companionable Silence.

The dark-haired Man smiles enigmatically, “They have no Idea, we are coming?”

The other Man nods: “They don´t!”


Epilogue II, the End.

Dear @Caesar73, this sounds like the end is not the end. I'm excited to see how you continue this saga.

Jenny_S wrote: 1 month ago Dear @Caesar73, this sounds like the end is not the end. I'm excited to see how you continue this saga.

The End of Epilogue 2 is not the End Epilogue 3 will be the End

Dear Readers, alas you will have to wait a while longer for Epilogue III as planned. But worldly Work is piling up I will keep you in the Loop about Progress

Caesar73 wrote: 1 month ago Dear Readers, alas you will have to wait a while longer for Epilogue III as planned. But worldly Work is piling up I will keep you in the Loop about Progress

So, dear Readers - while Progress is being made - the third Part is not finished yet - maybe End of this week. I can promise, it will be a hot one

Whatever, we all KNOW it'll be WORTH waiting for!

LunaDog wrote: 4 weeks ago Whatever, we all KNOW it'll be WORTH waiting for!

Thankyou dear Friend. I can announce Progress is good - the Devil is - as usual . in the Details. The second Epilogue plays on the Day of the Concert - and will end, before the Artists step on the Podium. While the Musicians rehearse a final Time. The other Ladies will have fun, some more, some less

And don´t forget our two unknown guests, mentionend at the End of Epilogue II .... I will tell more.

Damn how far behind have I fallen with this tale. I swear it will take me a week just to thoroughly enjoy each and every perfectly produced chapter.

But trust me my dear friend when I state openly and honestly I’m looking forward to reading everything

Bandit666 wrote: 3 weeks ago Damn how far behind have I fallen with this tale. I swear it will take me a week just to thoroughly enjoy each and every perfectly produced chapter.

But trust me my dear friend when I state openly and honestly I’m looking forward to reading everything

Thank you for your long Time support over the Years Dear Fried. It was especially important in the early Stages, when I began the Endevour of the "Hunt for the Weinsteincollection"

The third Epilogue is almost complete - and will be online in the next Days!

It looks like Chris and co have not been able to rid the world of baddies just yet. I am wondering what they will bring cause they up against a giant group of talented woman.

Sadly, it seems like the encoding problem has caused some trouble for your stories, making them a lot harder to read.

Beaumains wrote: 2 weeks ago It looks like Chris and co have not been able to rid the world of baddies just yet. I am wondering what they will bring cause they up against a giant group of talented woman.

Sadly, it seems like the encoding problem has caused some trouble for your stories, making them a lot harder to read.

Well, the Evil never sleeps And there are some old Foes yet lingering in the Shadows, and new Enemies, not known yet.

I was not aware of the encoding Problems. I will have a look. I am sorry, that reading is difficult.

On the plus Side? I am just giving the next Chapter its final polish. Expect it today.

@GreyLord @Bandit666 @banshee @Beaumains @Bigballgag1 @Trammel @wolfman @mrjones2009 @slackywacky @Nainur @TightsBound @Pantyhose971 @TayDay95 @NotSeen @Fandango @LunaDog @Argentum @h6hlh6h @algebrauk @RopeBunny @RopeBunny @Jenny_S

So, here it is




PSALMUS 150
1 ALLELUIA.
Laudate Dominum in sanctuario eius,
laudate eum in firmamento virtutis eius.
2 Laudate eum in magnalibus eius,
laudate eum secundum multitudinem magnitudinis eius.
3 Laudate eum in sono tubae,
laudate eum in psalterio et cithara,
4 laudate eum in tympano et choro,
laudate eum in chordis et organo,
5 laudate eum in cymbalis benesonantibus,
laudate eum in cymbalis iubilationis:
omne quod spirat, laudet Dominum. ALLELUIA.

Source:

https://www.vatican.va/archive/bible/no ... LMUS%20150


The Palace´s Chapel was empty. The Chapel had a Model. The Assam Chapel in Munich, built by the Brothers Cosmas and Damian Assam in the 18th Century. It was damaged in World War II and restored in the late 20th Century:


The Chapel was empty, except for the gaunt Figure in a Benedictine Habit, in the first Pew on the left. Father Malachias finished the Lauds with Psalm 150. Psalm 150 was one of his Favourites among the Psalms - this Praise of God the Almighty. There had been Times in his Life when other Psalms dominated his spiritual Life. Psalms of Mourning and Despair.

This Morning, he felt elated.

When the revered Father Abbott had ordered him to leave the closed World of the Monastery Malachias for this Occasion, he had seen it as a Punishment – even more so, that he had to perform with “Her”. If he was honest with himself, he knew exactly why. Christine von der Marwitz. In many Ways, the Pianist reminded him of his other Life. The Life before he became a Monk. But he shoved this Thought aside. He was Father Malachias.

The Monk was about to intone the opening Alleluia, before the actual Psalm would begin the Lauds, when another Voice began to sing. A Woman. A wonderfully dark, shimmering Mezzo. Plain, without Vibrato. Effortless. Perfect Intonation.

Malachias suppressed the Urge to turn around. The Musician and the Monk in him had to concede that the Chant was sung as it should be. Whoever sang? For her, it was Prayer. Several Months ago, he would have been furious that a Woman sang Gregorian Chant. But working together with the blonde Pianist had changed this rigid Attitude – a bit.

The last Tone stood clear in the Chapel. Malachias bowed before the Altar and turned to face the Singer. He recognized her as one of von der Marwitz's Friends. Father Malachias had declined her Invitation to have Dinner with them, but he had read the Files, the Blonde had forwarded to him.

The tall dark dark-haired Woman, standing in the Aisle, reminded him much of the young Sophia Loren. Her catlike green Eyes were mesmerizing. He registered her modest Attire: Loafers, no Socks, Jeans, a white Blouse, and a light Blue Blazer. Malachias noticed the simple Silver Cross around her Neck. Her dark Tresses she wore in a simple updo.

She bowed elegantly and smiled, “Revered Father, I meant not to intrude – but when I am here, I visit the Chapel regularly. I pray always here. And singing the Psalms is like praying for me.” She indicated a small bow. Father Malachias was astute enough, that this was no lip Service only” She smiled – one of the Sort that was not coy and artificial, but warm and sincere “We have not formally introduced Father. “I am Sophie. Sophie Reichenbach, the Lawyer of Christine´s and Anna´s Firm.”

“You are the Baroque Singer,” Malachias stated dryly. “Guilty, as charged.” Sophie smiled warmly. “

“Your latest Recital of French Baroque Arias was,” Malachias paused,” adequate.” “I was pleased.” Sophie smiled. Thanks to Chris´ Briefing, she knew “Adequate” coming from Father Malachias was high Praise. “You want me to join for Breakfast later?” “I prefer to have Breakfast alone,” the Benedictine declined firmly – and just a bit gruff “But you don´t mind, I'll attend your Rehearsal with Chris and Esme?” Sophie asked unfazed, “You are welcome.” The gaunt Monk sighed sourly, turned on his Heels and left.

Sophie looked after him and smiled, “Chris did not exaggerate, Father Malachias is really a Sunshine!” The Lawyer looked at her Watch. “Time to let Evie out of the Bags” – and left the Chapel. Anna had released her early in the Night from her Bags – and they decided to free the Egyptologist in the Morning. Not that Evie was pleased about that – but thick Cloth doused with Chloroform had stifled Evie´s heavily muffled Complaints.

Sophie considered meeting Evie during the early Stages of the Hunt for the Lost Scrolls as one of the best Things that ever happened to her. With Time, their Relationship had grown into something solid, something permanent – “Maybe we are ready to make the next Step?” Sophie mused.

She had thought about that as she watched Hayley and Kirsty at Dinner yesterday. The American and the Briton had taken the final Step last year. They were such a wonderful Pair. Sophie had presented Evie to her Parents last year, and Wilhelm and Letizia Reichenbach had welcomed the Briton warmly – and accepted the Egyptologist as Part of the Family – gladly. Letizia had made it her Duty to give the Egyptologist Cooking Lessons, whenever they visited their Parents. Evie´s Cooking could use some improvement. The Lawyer smiled.

Sophie typed in the Code to their Apartment, slipped her Shoes off, and tapped into the Bedroom. “Morning, my love!” She called brightly. Muffled Mumbles from the large Cocoon on their Bed told her Evie was awake.

She stepped nearer …..


0800 Dining Room:


Chris took a Sip of her Green Tea, enjoyed the accustomed Taste, looked around, and smiled. After last Night´s Relaxation Regimen, the Mood around the large wooden Table was buoyant. Even her Royal Morning Grumpiness, Anna Alexandrovna Romanova, was in an animated Conversation with Castle and Beckett – and that before her first Cup of Coffee. The Writer must have made an amusing Remark because the Russian laughed – the one that came from deep down. Chris´s and Beckett´s Eyes met – and the Detective just raised her Eyebrows and smiled.

The Pianist turned to Esme and Birte Ricciarelli, who happened to sit across her, “Don´t tell me last Night wasn´t fun.” She smiled coyly. “Well,” The Woman from Europol added dryly, “It was surely relaxing.” Esme looked studiously at her Dishes and decided to take a Cup of Coffee. “Don´t be shy,” Chris teased her Protégé. “I did enjoy it.” “See,” The tall Blonde smiled, “That wasn´t that difficult.”

At the other End of the Table, Kirsty and Hayley sat. “You didn´t tell me.” The American pouted, “Tell you what?” Her Wife feigned Innocence, while still buttering her Toast, “That Sophie ordered two Sets of the Enhanced Restraining System latest Model!” “Who told you, my Love, I didn´t bring a third one?” Kirsty smiled deviously.

Ragna watched amused as Natasha Bolkonskaya shifted in her Seat and winced. “Didn´t she behave last Night?” The herculean Icelandress smiled at Sarah McKenzie, “Some disciplinary Measures were in Order.” The black-haired Canadian shrugged, “I had important Business to attend.” “You played with Rachel´s Boobs, you mean?” Natasha muttered, “Call that Diplomacy my Pet,” the Masterthief explained, “Rachel is our Host after all.”

She leered openly at the Heiress Bust. She has a very impressive Set of Assets!” “You are too kind,” the Blonde said dryly. But the Masterthief had a Point: At 52, the Heiress of the Weinstein Collection had the Body of a Woman ten Years her biological Age – and she was proud of her Breasts. They did not sag, were firm and full, and many younger Women envied her, she knew. And the Commissioner, Hayley´s Father, loved them too.

“More impressive than my Breasts?” Chris smiled. They had not heard the Pianist coming. “We will have to discuss that, Sarah!” the tall Blonde added coyly.” “To Business!” She clapped in her Hands three Times. The Chatter subsided. “Ladies!” Chris announced, “This will be the Program till Lunch!” She looked from one to the other. “Esme and I will rehearse a final Time in the Concert Hall – who wants is invited to join us.” Chris smiled at Anna, “Anna will give a Demonstration at the Shooting Range with the Sniper Rifle and other Arms.” She paused. “I heard Castle has asked for a Lesson in shooting with a Sniper Rifle.”

The Pianist´s Gaze landed on Ragna. “Ragna offers a Course in advanced Hand to Hand Combat.” Mischievously, she smiled at Natasha, “Natasha and Ekaterina offered to lend a Hand.” The two Russians exchanged a look. They did not know they would participate. Judging by their Looks. Natasha muttered something in Russian. Ekaterina nodded, “Da.” And shot Ragna an angry Look. The Icelandress just smiled.

Anna had followed the Scene and smiled at Chris – she turned to Merit. “Lady Merit, another Cup of that fantastic Coffee!” The Pianist chuckled, “Don´t overdo it, Anna, you might miss your Target later.”

“Never,” The Russian smiled back. “Don´t you have something else to do, Chris?”

“Good, you reminded me!” The Blonde smiled sweetly.


Later: Shooting Range:


Kate Beckett watched as Anna made her Preparations. The Russian had changed into Combat Gear and built her Sniper Rifle together – a Russian Model, an OSV 96, as she explained to Castle. Who watched the Violinist´s every Move.

“He is probably taking mental Notes for his next Novel,” The American mused. She did her best to hide a Smile. “Anna, whatever you do, give Castle a good Show!” The dark-haired Russian grinned mischievously. “Believe me, he will get something for his Money.” She paused, "I've arranged a special demonstration with the help of one of our friends." And” Anna added, “Will have some fun on my own!” Beckett noticed the wicked Smile of her Friend. Yes, Anna Alexandrovna Romanova had Plans. Her Train of Thought was interrupted as Sarah McKenzie entered the Shooting Range:

The Canadian had also donned Combat Gear – all Black, true to Form. And carried a Sniper Rifle above her Shoulder. A Barrett M82/M107. The Master Thief was a trained Sniper, as Kate Beckett knew from firsthand Experience. It was during the first Stage of the Hunt for the Weinstein Collection that Sarah McKenzie demonstrated her marksmanship, as she shot Chris´s former Fiancé, Peter Riefenstahl, an investigative Journalist.

The Black Lady played her Cards close to her Chest, but by now, they knew, the black-haired Woman with the obsidian black Eyes had served in the Canadian Special Forces – before she crossed the Paths into the Shadow World and became the Black Lady. Famous and feared in certain Circles.

“So glad you made it, Grand Ma!” Anna teased the Canadian. “I wouldn´t miss the Opportunity to teach an arrogant Aristocrat a Lesson in Humility!” Sarah McKenzie smiled sweetly. “You may try!” Anna smiled back. Kate Beckett had to smile: Anna had promised them a Show and now the American was sure, they would get one. The Russian and the Canadian both had a competitive Streak, and both were formidable Opponents.

Kate Beckett watched her Husband, who followed the Preparations of the two Snipers with Fascination. She knew Castle – he was completely mesmerized by the Spectacle. The Russian waited patiently as the Canadian made her Preparations. Finally, the Masterthief joined the Violinist.

“Ready to get kicked your Ass?” Anna grinned mischievously “Ready when you are to get your delectable Ass kicked.” The black-haired Masterthief returned evenly – and with a twinkle in her black Eyes.

Anna turned to Beckett and Castle: “This is what we have in Mind!” Kate could sense the Russian´s Excitement. “We, Sarah and I, will duel.” “We fire a Series of five Shots at a Distance of 500 Metres.”

“Then,” Anna continued, smiling, “We go forward 25 Metres.” She exchanged a look with the Canadian. “And go forward another 25 Metres,” Sarah McKenzie grinned. “The final Shoot Out is 1000 Metres.” Anna explained, “Ready?” She smiled at Sarah, “Ready when you are, my Love!” The Canadian smiled.

Kate smiled: Castle was entirely in Awe – as he watched the two Shooters making her Preparations. Cool and professional. Anna had not promised too much! Castle would get a Spectacle.

Anna blended any other Thought out and controlled her Breath. In. Out. In. Out. She would shoot first. She listened to the electronic Voice in her Ear: “Five, Four, Three, Two, One!” Anna pulled the Trigger in quick Succession – five Times. She relaxed. Now it was Sarah´s Turn.

Fascinated, Kate and Castle watched the first Round.

Sarah fired her five Shots even faster than Anna.

“Who do you think was better?” Castle whispered to Beckett, “I am not sure.” The Detective shrugged, “Both are pretty evenly matched, I would say.” Kate had seen both Competitors in Action many Times. “This is just the first Round.”

At the End of the first Round, there was no Winner. It was a draw, “Not Bad, Romanova,” The Black Lady teased her Opponent. “Seems like you inherited some of your Great Grand Grandfather´s and Grandfather´s Gene´s after all. You are too kind.” Anna smiled sweetly, “You are no total loss either. What do you say? Ready for the next Round?”

“Ready when you are!” Sarah McKenzie chuckled, “Let´s move the Target 25 Meters back then.” Anna smiled mischievously, and Kate knew her Friend was up to something. “Let us make it 50 Meters,” The Russian challenged the Canadian. “I am all in!” The Canadian smiled back.

The two Snipers retook their Positions. This Time, The Black Lady would have the first shot.


Gym in the Palace´s Cellars: Around the same Time:


Ragna greeted her Students with a Bow. All had changed into Judo Gear – and the Icelandress had asked Kirsty and Natasha to assist her. The Briton and the Russian were the most experienced Fighters of the Family in Hand-to hand-to-hand combat, next to Sarah, Chris, and Anna. Ragna´s Students were Hayley, Ekaterina, Evie, Merit, and Birte Ricciarelli.

“Listen, Ladies!” the herculean Icelandress smiled ominously, “We will train first, then fight in Pairs, and at last we will have a little Tournament. The Losers will have to watch the show from the Sidelines!” The Blonde announced, she smiled at Ekaterina.” Like a large Predator. Evie shuddered as Ragna´s Gaze rested on her. The Egyptologist did her best to keep a stiff upper lip but felt uneasy. Ragna, Kirsty, and Natasha? “They devour little Egyptologists for Breakfast. Silently, Evie cursed at Sophie.

“This will be a good Opportunity to improve your Martial Arts Skills,” The Lawyer had smiled. “And you don´t need to improve your Skills?” The lithe Woman who looked so much like Rachel Weisz huffed, “No.” Sophie Reichenbach had smiled, “At least not today. Chris asked me to observe the final Rehearsal.”

“That is not fair!” Evie pouted, “I get trashed, and you listen to Music.” “Then don´t get trashed, my Love!” She smiled coyly, “And I will make it up to you!”

The Lawyer closed the Distance and kissed her Partner fully on the Lips – Evie responded in kind.

“Warm up – and get ready!” Ragna interrupted her Musings.


The Concert Hall previously:


Father Malachias looked at his Watch. Chris von der Marwitz and her Entourage would be punctual, he was sure of that. Punctuality was a Virtue the Monk and the Pianist shared. “I will bring two Friends,” the Blonde had explained yesterday, after they had finished their game of Backgammon. After Yesterday´s Rehearsal. It had become a Ritual to play a Game of Backgammon after their Rehearsals. And the Benedictine had found out that the blonde Pianist was a formidable Opponent. He valued the Competitive Streak of the Artist.

The Door to the Concert Hall Floor opened – and four Women entered: Chris von der Marwitz, Esme Kofler, Rachel Weinstein, and Sophie Reichenbach. Not one second too late. A small Smile curled the Pianists full Lips – just a Tad mockingly. The Blonde liked to tease the austere Benedictine now and then. This had become another of their Rituals.

Father Malachias had come to admire the Pianist´s Mastery of the black and white Keys. And what impressed him even more: There was not the slightest Trace of Vanity about Christine von der Marwitz. She served the Music only. Not her Ego. Not her Glory. The Blonde was no Diva. Far from it. She strived for Perfection, but not for Perfection itself, but as a Means to an
End. To serve the Music. He had learned that “Chris” – as her Friends called her – did not believe in God, since her Parents died in a Car Crash on the Amalfi Coast. That Event had changed her. “She does not know.” Malachias thought, “But we have more in Common when she thinks.”

A personal Tragedy had changed their Life. His and Hers. They both had taken different Roads to overcome them. Both had fled the World. Malachias had sought God, become a Monk, giving up a Career on the Stages of the World. Chris von der Marwitz had broken with God, fled the World, and returned to the Stages of the World – to use her immense Talent to gift the Audiences around the World with the Power of Music.

“Father!” Chris interrupted his Thoughts as she greeted him with a deep Bow. And there was no Mockery in it, despite the little teasing Smile – but Respect.

“Frau von der Marwitz,” the Monk greeted her dryly. Looking sternly at the Blonde – but returning her Bow, with the smallest of Nods.

Chris smiled, “I learned you know Sophie and Rachel already. I hope you don´t mind, they are listening as we rehearse?”

“As long as they keep silent and don´t disturb us.” Father Malachias fixated on the Lawyer and the Heiress of the Weinstein Collection. “Of course, we will keep in the Background,” The voluptuous Blonde reassured him. “I am very grateful you agreed to leave your Abbey. I am a Jew, but I know that the Stabilitas Loci is very important to a Benedictine.” Rachel Weinstein quoted the Regula Benedicti perfectly.

“I hope I quoted correctly, Father?” “You did.” Malachias returned in perfect Hebrew.

If the Heiress was surprised, she didn´t show: She turned to Sophie, “Come, let us have a Seat and the Musicians practice.”

Chris and Esme had followed the Exchange. The Pianist smiled, “Come, Esme! We have work to do!” The Teacher kept a straight Face, but she noticed the smallest of Smiles curling Chris´ Lips.

Esme knew the Pianist well enough by now: The Blonde had enjoyed that Scene very much. The Teacher followed Chris on the Stage to warm up. Father Malachias stood still on the Ground Floor, looking after Rachel Weinstein and Sophie Reichenbach. As Esme noticed, he chose a Seat far away from the Lawyer and the Heiress.

A small Smile curled her Lips. “I did not expect anything else!”

She sat down at the Grand Piano. Chris had already sat down at the other one. She smiled at Esme:

“Shall we begin then?”

Esme smiled back:

“We shall, by all means!” The Teacher played the first Notes of the opening Allegro moderato of the Grande Sonata for Pianoforte as it was written in the Autograph. It began with a slow Introduction, “Grave”. Over Time, Chris and Esme had built a Rapport, a level of almost intuitive Understanding. Now, nearly five Months after they began to rehearse, they knew what the other would do. Chris smiled, it was almost like playing with Anna ….


The Palace: East Wing, later:


Kirsty woke up suddenly. Not the usual slow return to the waking World. No Headache. No dry Throat. As with Chloroform. And Kirsty had a lot of Experience in that Regard. To be on the receiving end of Chloroform. Or chloroforming someone.

This was different.

The Briton kept her Eyes closed. She lay on a soft Mattress. She listened. There was only Silence. She tried to remember what had happened. Slowly, Memory returned. She had fought Ragna. Make no Mistake: After three Tours in Afghanistan and as Elizabeth Crawford´s Second in Command? Kirsty Garrett was no Cannon Fodder. But the Icelandress wasn´t either. Neither of the two Combatants had pulled any Punches. Ragna had the better End for herself.

When Kirsty had struggled to her Feet again and bowed, it had happened: A sharp Prick in the Neck and then? Nothing. Just Darkness. The Briton opened her Eyes and stared at a wooden Ceiling. She sat up and looked around. “I am in some kind of Suite in the Palace,” Kirsty realized.

Then she looked down at herself: Someone had dressed her like Kelly. Like Kelly Garrett of Charlie´s Angels: The white Blouse, the wide-legged Jeans. Something was missing, though: Wedge Sandals. Kirsty looked at her Feet: No Shoes. She wore Pantyhose, though. Nude, with enforced Toes. And someone had applied fresh nail polish, purple red.

The Briton from Norfolk put her Feet on the Floor. The lush Carpet caressed her nyloned Soles. She looked around: On the Nightstand, she spotted a Tablet. The Auburn Haired Woman grabbed it and opened it …

Kirsty wiped across the Screen and looked at the beaming Faces of Natasha and Ragna. Both waved a “Hi!” “Hello Kirsty!” Ragna smiled “We have prepared a Surprise for you and Hayley! Do you have any Idea where our curvy Blonde is, Ragna?” The Russian feigned Innocence. “I have no Idea!” the Icelandress chuckled. “The Hell you have!” Kirsty huffed, “Blasted Comedians!” “Then,” Natasha shrugged “Kirsty will have to find her.” She seemed to look directly at Kirsty now. “Listen carefully! To find your beloved Wife, you have to follow the Instructions!” A Floor Plan appeared on the Screen. Several red Dots blinked. “Each Dot marks a Room,” Ragna explained. “In each Room, you will have to fulfill a Task.” “Only when you fulfill all Tasks will you find the Room where Hayley is waiting for you!” Natasha added, “So don´t tarry, Girlie, and start looking!”

“Bye” Natasha and Ragna waved at her. Their beaming Faces vanished, and the Floor Plan with its blinking red Dots remained on the Screen. Resolutely, Kirsty stood and tapped to the Door, opened it, and stepped out of the Suite in the vast Marble Corridor. The shimmering white Marble felt cool under her nyloned Soles. The Briton turned left and walked down the long Corridor, making almost no Sound.


Shooting Range:


Kate and Castle held their Breaths as Anna fired her next five Shots. It was the sixth Round, and so far, both Combatants had scored in perfect Synchronicity. This Round was no exception. Sarah too hit the Mark perfectly. The seventh Round would be the last. One Miss and the Game would be over.

Fascinated, the Detective and the Writer watched as the Russian and the Canadian made their Preparations for the final Round. Kate was fascinated by the Coolness of both Snipers.

Anna peered through her Scope. There was nothing but the Target in her Sights. Anna was in her Tunnel now, and she knew McKenzie, too. The previous six Rounds had been the Prelude to the great Final. The Canadian would begin this Time. The Black Lady fired in a precise, measured Rhythm. She was pretty sure to have fired an almost perfect Series of five Shots.

“Question is,” She mused, “Was it good enough?” During the whole Tournament, she had the Feeling Romanova had just held back … It was just a Gut Feeling, but The Black Lady trusted her Guts always.

Anna breathed in and out – and pulled the Trigger. Five Times in rapid succession. A Smile curled her Lips.

In Awe, Beckett and Castle looked at the two large Screens, which showed the Targets: The Russian´s and the Canadian´s. “Wow,” Castle said. “Wow,” Beckett said, too. Both Shooters secured their Rifles and stood and watched at the Screens too. A Smile curled Anna´s Lips.

Sarah´s five Shoots were very closely grouped in the Centre. Anna´s Target showed only one Hole. Had Anna failed? No. Anna had hit the same Spot exactly five Times. The tall dark-haired Woman smiled at her Competitor, “It´s Payday, Sarah!” McKenzie knew that Smile … she was fast, but not fast enough as Anna moved with incredible Speed…


The East Wing:


In another of the many Guest Suites in the East Wing. On the massive King Size Bed lay a Woman. That was clear. Her Identity, though, was uncertain though? But why? From the Crown of her Head down to her Ankles, she was enshrouded in Layers of Blue and White Silk. Only her Nose and her pantyhosed Feet were not covered in blue Silk. Her Toes were tied, and a white silken Band held her Feet in the en-pointe Position. Six other white silken Bands held the wrapped Body firmly on the Bed.

So tight were the silken Wraps that they accentuated the voluptuous curvaceous Body. The Woman did not move. Her Chest heaved regularly. She was probably unconscious.

Darkness engulfed Hayley King. She was still dead to the World. At least she had been, till she woke up from a drug-enforced Slumber …

Hayley:

Where am I? What has happened? I am not in the Bags, I would know …Something cool and smooth compresses my whole Body. Only my Feet are not wrapped, but I can´t move them either. I test my Restraints …. I am heavily gagged. Something silky fills my Mouth. I feel a strange Taste in my Mouth …. A Liquid trickles down my Throat. Whatever it is? It causes a slight burn – heat fills my Body. I am sure the Gag is a multilayered Affair. Thanks to Crawford, I am an expert in being gagged and a Damsel in Distress. Lizzie would have surely endorsed my Predicament. She loved tying in gagging me … Thank God she dines now in Hell!

I have been stripped to my Bra and Panties and a Pair of Pantyhose. Under the Wraps, I am tied with silken Scarves I deduce. One Band above my Breasts, one below. They compress my full Breasts, another silken Girdle around my Tummy, another around my Waist – and of Course a Crotch Scarf. It is tight. My Arms are held by my Bonds at my Sides, and my Palms rest flatly on my Thighs. Six more silken Bands keep my long Legs together. Even my Insteps are tied.

But as I find out, the Crotch Scarf is not the only Entertainment – a Vibrator is lodged into my Pussy and reminds me of its Presence …. The damned Things begins to pulsate … and that brings me back to the most important Question …. How in Hell did I end here? Comfortably restrained, gagged and vibrated – Damn it, is the Thing strong! My pulse quickens, and I strain against my silken Confinement ….. I feel the Orgasm building …..

We leave Hayley now to her own Devices. About her Gag, she is right: It is a multilayered Affair – as Kirsty might find out later …. If she completes her Tasks …


Another Corridor in the East Wing:


Kirsty:


I stop before the Door. Inside the first Task awaits me. I type in the Entry Code. With a soft click, the Door unlocks. I press the Handle down and step over the Threshold. A short Corridor leads into the Suite. I am glad to get off the cold Marble floor. My Feet are icy cold already. The lush Carpet caresses my Soles.

I step into the Main Room. Next to the large Bed stands a round Table. On it another Tablet and some other Items. I don´t need to be a Genius to deduce my first Target. The Tablet springs to Life. “Hello Kirsty!” Natasha´s Voice greets me, “Took you long enough!” “I guess you have deduced your first Task.”

“Smartass!” I mutter darkly, “Don´t be a Spoilsport!” Natasha teases me, “Gag yourself in true Elizabeth Crawford Fashion!” Ragna seconds. The two Clowns enjoy this Way too much. “Chop, chop!” The Russian teases me, “Hayley is waiting!” The Screen turns black. I sigh and inspect the Items on the Table: Lizzie would have liked this – no doubt!

Gauze Pads, lots of them, several large silken Scarfs. With a sigh, I set to Work. Disgustingly, I look at the Mass of Gauze Pads ….. If I owe Elizabeth Crawford anything, it is how to gag a Damsel thoroughly. I start to pack my Mouth with Gauze. Pack as in stuff my Mouth to the bursting ….”

I work quickly and efficiently, and ten Minutes later, my lower Face has vanished: My Mouth is packed with Gauze. Three thick and heavy silken Scarves keep the Stuff in there: The first two Scarves I folded in half and filled them with Gauze Pads. The third I wrapped three Times around my lower Face before I knotted it tightly behind my Head.

My Tablet pings: And one red Dot turns green. I leave the Suit and continue my Quest. Hayley, I am coming!


Somewhere in the Woods around the Adlernest, a Clearing:


Anna Romanova is very pleased with herself. She looks at Sarah McKenzie, who is still out to the Count. The Russian congratulates herself on her Creativity. Basically, the Violinist recreated a Tableau from several Years ago: Back then, a Day or two before the final Attack on the Adlernest, the Black Lady had ambushed her in the Mountains around the Adlernest – and left Anna literally hanging from the Tree. One of the Pranks, the Masterthief loved so much:


“[….] From her back backpack presented something to Anna: It was a heavy red bundle: a sheath; one of heavy spandex lined with a thin layer of synthetic fleece. It was a mummy sleeping bag, with a zipper running up its front and numerous horizontal and lateral nylon straps running in stitched sheaths around its circumference, from the ankles to the throat. Anna could see from her position that the Canadian put a translucent bag, containing a white powder, at the bottom of the sheath. [….]”


Anna has not just copied that Predicament but added a few Embellishments. “See you later, Sweety!” Anna told the still unconscious Thief, turned on her Heels and left.


Sarah McKenzie, later:


“Holy Shit!” Romanova really did a Number on me!” I am stuck. I have to give this to her. That was a damned fine Piece of Shooting – and this Prank? She was so damn fast!” She must have planned this since we came here. Full points for Creativity and Stealth! But I will repay her in kind – after the Concert.

The Canadian was not really scared. She knew there was no real Danger these Days. Back then, as she pranked Anna, it had been different. If a Squad of von Winterfeldt's Valkyries had found Anna hanging in the Tree? There would have been the Devil to pay. But no risk, no fun.

The Russian had surely used well-worn Underwear and Socks for the Gag. Probably both. The Black Lady knew Anna´s Style pretty well. The Master Thief tried to ignore the burning Sensation under her Soles….


The Palace East Wing:


If by Accident someone had walked the long Corridor on the second Floor? They would have been greeted by a peculiar Sight: A tall, auburn-haired Woman, dressed like one of Charlie´s Angels, was bunny-hopping down the Floor. She had to hop, because her Legs were tied in five Places with silken Scarves – as were her big Toes. The Crotch Scarf looked tight two. Her wrists were obviously shackled behind her back.

She had to be tired, but she soldiered on. Four Hops. A short Pause. Four Hops. Pause. Kirsty muttered a curse into her fully packed Mouth. She had completed five more Tasks. And had been awarded with the Location of Hayley “100 Metres down the Corridor! Third Door on the left!” Natasha had explained, smiling. The Briton vowed to murder the Russian. Murder her slowly. Her muscular Thighs burned by now. But the Child from a Hamlet in Norfolk would not give in. So, she hopped on. It could not be far anymore.. At least Kirsty hoped it.

Giving up was no Option. Kirsty King-Garrett had a stubborn Streak. All Garrets had. And she was no exception. At least something good she had inherited from her Father, “You are as stubborn as an old Mule!” her Wife teased her now and then!”

Kirsty sighed in Relief: There it was! The third Door on the left! So, the Russian had not played her this Time. That would not have been beneath Natasha Bolkonskaya. Playing her another Time.

One more hop. Heavily breathing, Kirsty stood before the Door. But how to open it? With her shackled Hands, there was a soft Click, and the Door swung open. Hayley´s Wife hopped over the Threshold, hopped along the short Corridor into the Main Room, and was greeted by a most spectacular Sight!


The Concert Hall:


Esme was utterly mesmerized:

“So that´s why Father Malachias is here! I had no Idea. Well played by Chris as well. I wonder how she got that misogynistic Misanthrope playing with her! And I didn´t know Chris made a Transcription – and I didn´t know that the Monk plays so well, like a real Professional. Well, I knew he played the Piano when he thought nobody was listening. But that he plays like a trained Pianist? I didn´t know.

And they are so well in tune together. Amazing! The Rehearsal went pretty well. I believe Chris now, when she said this morning, I am as ready as I could be. “She does that now and then,” Rachel Weinstein interrupts me. Has she read my mind? “I know Chris pretty well by now! The Heiress smiles, “It is just what she does!”

Rachel Weinstein is really easy-going. I was unsure yesterday, nervous even, when I met her first time. There is no arrogance. I look to the left, and Sophie smiles at me. Knowingly. Hell, can they all read my mind? At Times, I don´t understand what has happened in the last six Months.

To be here in this magnificent Concert Hall, in this Valley. If someone had told me this in early November I wouldn´t have believed them. I smile when I think of my last Visit to Hamburg, when Anna went shopping with me. “You need a proper Dress and a fine Set of Heels for this Concert! So, you and I will go shopping. Now!” So, Anna and Merit, and I went shopping. Anna loves this.

The young Egyptian is a fascinating Person! Hard to believe she left her Home in the Desert only roughly a Year ago. She speaks German with a light Accent only and is totally devoted to Anna, her Mistress, as she insists on calling her. The Honourable Lady Merit of the House of Senemut is Anna´s Lady in Waiting. There is an interesting Connection between them. I am very curious to learn more.

I focus on Chris and Father Malachias again. Chris has fun, she smiles while playing, Father Malachias is his austere Self again. At Times, I really doubt if he can laugh at all ….


The East Wing, a short while later:


Kirsty looked fascinated at the large King-size bed. The Woman, wrapped in Silk from Head to Ankles, was without any doubt Hayley. Only her feet were not wrapped in Silk. Her nyloned Toes were tied together and to the Footboard, which forced Hayley´s Feet into the en pointe Position.

The Silk Mummy was breathing heavily and struggling against her soft yet unforgiving Restraints. The buzzing Sound told the Briton what she had to know. Her Wife had been presented with a Vibrator. It was an incredibly erotic Sight: Mesmerized Kirsty looked at the Bed, and did not register the Movement behind her. One very strong Arm grabbed her upper Body with an iron Grip. A heavily doused, sickly sweet-smelling Cloth was pressed on her Face. Another Attacker grabbed her Ankles and lifted Kirsty off her Feet.

The first Attacker held her with an iron Grip. Lifted off her Feet, Kirsty was in no Position to fight back, bound and gagged like she was “Ragna! Ragna and Natasha, it shot through her Mind. She had subdued enough Damsels to know, the Battle was already lost. As Elizabeth Crawford´s second in Command, she had done this often enough herself.

She held her Breath. But at some Point she would have to breathe. In the initial Attack, she had already breathed in a healthy Dose of Chloroform. Her Toes and her Fingertips tingled. Her Reactions got slower. And Ragna´s Grip was like Steel, like an Anaconda squeezing every Ounce of Breath out of her Prey. The Icelandress was a formidable Enemy in any Fight. Kirsty had learned that since she and Hayley had become Part of the Family. The last Time today: In the final Fight had beaten Kirsty fair and square – that did not happen very often.

The Briton was very good at Hand-to-Hand Combat. She had gotten her Ass handed backwards to her. That did not happen very often. Ragna had today. It had been a gloves-off fight. Kirsty had yielded in the End. Then a sharp Prick in her Neck. Then Blackness. She had woken up on the Bed in that Suite ….

“I have to breathe,” Kirsty cursed. Ragna pressed her Diaphragm together and pressed the Cloth more firmly on her Face. The Tickling-Attack came out of nowhere. The second Attacker tickled her under the high Arches of her left Foot. The Pantyhose made her Feet even more sensitive. Kirsty could not resist any longer; she had to breathe. She did. Long deep Breaths – and finally she fell. Fell into the Abyss. The swirling Abyss she knew too well. Her World became dark ….


Later: The Palace, Dining Room:


Esme felt good. Relaxed. The Rehearsal had been magnificent. And she had been surprised. Or more precisely? Father Malachias had surprised her. The austere Monk, who usually made no Secret out of his Disdain for Women, had performed together with Chris and Esme, wondered how the Pianist had convinced the Benedictine to do that: To play with Chris. Chris was in every Aspect the Embodiment of all the Monk despised.

And Father Malachias had surprised her. True, she had known that he played the Piano when he thought nobody would listen. But the Way he had performed with Chris? He had to have some Training as a Pro; that much was clear to Esme. What surprised her even more? How well in Tune the Pianist and the Monk were. Esme knew that Chris and Father Malachias had butted Heads several Times during Chris´ Investigations at Ettal.

She was still nervous, in several Hours she would step out on the Podium and perform Music. Music which had been lost to the World. And what surprised her? Now, after the last rehearsal, she felt, no, she knew with the Core of her being, that she could do it. This Evening would change her Life.

“She is ready to step into the Limelight?” Anna smiled at Chris. Both Friends had watched the young Teacher. The Pianist smiled back, “She is as ready as we were. When we played the first Time in Vienna together on the Stage.”

Anna smiled. It was a knowing Smile, “You did it again, you know.” Chris raised her Eyebrows. “I did what again?” “You know exactly what I mean,” her best Friend chided her mildly. “Do I?” The Pianist teased her best Friend, “Saving People, helping them to find their Way.” Anna´s Tone was light, but Chris sensed the Violinist meant it.

“And what is wrong with that?” The Pianist smiled still, but Anna sensed an Undertone. “Nothing at all,” The dark-haired Russian conceded, “But you can´t save the whole World.” “I have no Intention to.” Chris's tone betrayed nothing. “But some People need Help, People like Esme.” She looked at the Teacher, who was talking animatedly with Sophie and Evie. “By the Way,” Chris looked the Violinist straight in the Eye, a small knowing Smile curling her Lips. “What did you do with Sarah?” “Me?” Anna shrugged, “Nothing.” Chris smiled more. “Try again. You did something to her, after your Duel, I know you.” Anna smiled deviously. “Let´s say, she is enjoying the Peace and Quiet of the Woods.”

“I see,” her best Friend nodded. “What will you do after Lunch?” Anna yawned exaggeratedly.
“I think I will have some rest.”

“Good Idea!” Chris smiled.


Somewhere in the Woods, a Clearing:


Sarah McKenzie cursed into her fully packed Mouth. She had lost any Track of Time. At least, the Vibrator had stopped buzzing – for now. She had to give Anna that: The Russian had been clever. To get the Canadian on the wrong Foot was seldom, but Anna Romanova had done that. Normally, her Spider Senses warned The Black Lady of an impending Attack. But not this Time. The Surprise Attack had been perfect. As perfect as the Russian´s Shooting. The last Series had been a damned fine Piece of Shooting.

The Canadian would not admit that, but Anna was a Genius with the Sniper Rifle. The Masterthief knew the Story of how Anna saved Chris´ out of the Clutches of Boris Oblomov. To do what the Russian had done back then – under Pressure, against all Odds. It had been a damned fine Piece of Soldiering. Sarah smiled under her Gag: She would deliver some serious Payback after the Concert. Now? She could do little else than wait. The Vibrator started buzzing again …


The Palace: Chris´ Apartment:


Chris was content. The final Rehearsal had gone well. And she was sure, she, they were all ready for the Concert this Evening. She felt the Excitement she usually felt before a Concert. This Evening, the Eyes of the World would focus primarily on Esme. It was as it should be. The Teacher deserved this.

The Pianist smiled. Maybe Aslan would watch the Concert. Chris had sent him a Link for the Livestream this Evening. To her Surprise, she regretted it a bit that the Chieftain of the Medjai would not be here to watch her personally. At Times, Chris was surprised they had made it that far: The battle-hardened Medjai and the Warrior Princess of the North, as the Warriors of the Medjai called her.

So far, they had made it work, this strange Relationship between them. Chris had not been sure in the beginning, “I am a Shield Maiden, and my Touch is not gentle,” she had told Ardeth Bey at Kirsty´s and Hayley´s Wedding. Anna and her Friend had played Matchmaker and invited him, without her Knowledge, to the Wedding ….

“Well, and here we are,” Chris smiled as she entered the Code to her Quarters and stepped over the Threshold. She slipped her red Sneakers and her sweaty Anklets off and padded Barefoot down the small Corridor, which led to the Apartments Main Room, and stopped dead in her Tracks.

There was something in the Air. Something Foreign and something familiar at the same Time. She knew that Scent. This could simply not be. But this Aroma of Cedar, Tobacco, old Leather, and Musk? She knew. Intimately. A sudden Heat shot down her Spine and deeper South. Chris stepped into the main room.

“You!” She accused the dark-haired Man sitting in an Armchair and nursing a fine Whiskey from the Isle of Skye. “What are you doing here? You told me you couldn´t come!”

Ardeth Bey gave her the once-over. From the Crown of her Head to her freshly painted Toes. His Gaze rested for a Moment longer on her full Bossom. Chris blushed. “Stop that!” “What shall I stop?” the Lord of the Medjai asked mildly. “Admiring a Work of Art?”

He put his Tumbler on the round Table to his left. “This Whiskey is very good!” Chris blushed, “I hate Surprises!” she muttered, “Even Surprises of the pleasant Sort?” Ardeth Bey smiled and rose to his feet “He is looking so damned good!” Chris mused, and her pulse quickened. “What do you think of a Shower Princess?” The Lord of the Medjai smiled innocently. “Surely you need some Relaxation before the Concert.”

“I could use some Relaxation, oh Chieftain of the Medjai,” Chris Alto's Voice was husky. She crossed the Distance, slung her Arms around him, and kissed the Beduine hard on the Mouth. “I am awfully stressed,” she whispered hoarsely as they parted. “Come!”


Another Suite:


Kirsty awoke from her drug-induced Slumber ….

Kirsty:


Where am I? I cannot see. I am blindfolded then. A thick, heavily padded Sleepmask. The Gag is still the same. I have been stripped down to my Bra and my Panties and Pantyhose. I take stock of my Restraints: Hands? Mitted. Wrists? Tied behind my back. My Elbows are welded together above and below the Joint. My Bonds are made of Silk. The Crotch Scarf is still – or again – in Place. Only now I realize I sit on someone, I straddle someone, and my Ankles are tied. Probably to the Bedframe. It has to be Hayley. I feel how she is moving, grinding her Hips against mine. I feel Vibrations. Obviously, my Wife has been presented with a Vibrator too.

I, my Body responds to Hayley´s Administrations. I press my Groins against hers. We find a common Rhythm quickly. That is the Moment when the Vibrators spring into High Gear. Oh God! That is so good. Hayley´s Struggles get more intense as do mine. I see the Humdinger of an Orgasm looming at the Horizon. We came in perfect Synchronicity. We scream in our Gags, I throw my head back! Greedily I suck Breath through my Nose and the silken Scarf, Ragna and Natasha have tied above my lower Face. Only now do I register the Pantyhood covering my Face. Slowly, my Pulse returns to normal. I hear Hayley´s heavily muffled Mumbles. I mumble back. Over Time, we learned to understand our Gag Talk. Another Thing we have to thank Elizabeth Crawford for. I do feel the heat of Hayley´s Body. Then the Vibrators spring to life again ….


Natasha and Ragna watch the two Women. Enjoying the View: The silken Mummy and her tied and gagged Wife straddling her. Both are totally unaware of their Presence. The Russian and the Icelandress look at each other, smiling. Both hold dust masks in their Hands. Doused with Chloroform.

Patiently, they waited till the next Orgasm hit Hayley and Kirsty. They walked to the Bed: Natasha applied hers to Haley´s Face, Ragna applied hers to Kirsty. Both Women took a Moment to realize what happened. Both struggled against their new Accessories, shaking their Heads. In Vain. Finally, both Women succumbed to the potent Drug.

Natasha and Ragna exchanged a Look. “You have another Job to do,” The Icelandress smiled at the Russian. “Let me take care of our two Lovebirds!” Natasha grinned, “Don´t get carried away! I wonder what Anna has done to Sarah!”

“Go and find out!” The Blonde smiled back.

Natasha looked at her Smartphone and smiled deviously

“Anna, sent mir the Coordinates and a Picture – look!”

Ragna looked – and smiled: The Photo showed a Mummy hanging from a Tree. The Contraption looked like some sort of Sleep sack.

“Have fun!” The Icelandress smiled deviously.


A Clearing, later:


Sarah McKenzie, aka The Black Lady, was not a happy Camper. The Afterglow of the last Orgasm receded slowly. Her Breathing got back to normal. Her Cocoon swung in the Air, in the gentle Breeze. “Romanova, that will cost you!” The Canadian vowed – Steps on the Ground interrupted her Musings. The Steps of a Warrior. Careful, evenly, and firm. The Masterthief listened intently. A Human´s Gait was like a Fingerprint – if one was skilled in reading it. And she knew that Gait – and relaxed a bit: Natasha!

As if on Cue, the Russian stepped onto the Clearing. Stopped and took in the View: A smile curled her Lips. A devious Smile, “Natasha Bolkonskaya – you enjoy this way too much!” Sarah McKenzie made a mental Notice to herself, “Continue Natasha´s Education!”

The Russian stepped nearer and stopped right before McKenzie and smiled up at the Canadian, “Good day, Mistress! Did you enjoy yourself?”

Sarah McKenzie's Eyes were coal Black, darker than the darkest night as she stared down at the Russian. If looks could kill? Natasha Bolkonskaya would be a heap of smouldering Ash right now.

Bolkonskaya was unimpressed. “Shall I release you?” She paused for effect. “Mistress?” The Russian smiled deviously. “Or do you want to enjoy Peace and Quiet some more?”

The Masterthief rolled her Eyes, mumbled something in her Gag, and nodded …. “Just you wait!” She smiled under her Gag. Anna Romanova had been generous with the stuffing. And McKenzie had identified two Givers: Anna herself and Kate Beckett. This Evening was the Concert, but after that… Sarah McKenzie was patient.


Another Suite:


Kirsty groaned as she awoke slowly … She remembered the wild Ride, then the Dust Masks doused with Chloroform … then the black Abyss. The auburn-haired Woman opened her Eyes, tried to get her Bearings: She was not tied up, she was not gagged, she lay on a soft Mattress.

She looked to her left. “I am not alone”, she realized. Next to her lay Hayley. It had to be Hayley. She was no longer mummified. She lay spread-eagled on the Bed. With Silk Scarves. She wore a blue Bra, Panties, and nude thigh-high nude Stockings. Her Head, though, was still entirely wrapped in Silk. Except her Nose. Hayley came obviously around: She moaned, flexed her nylon Feet and tugged at the silken Restraints, which held her Captive.

Kirsty smiled wickedly. “Hello, my Love, shall I free you?” The Blonde nodded emphatically and increased her Struggles. “Not yet,” the Briton smiled – and knelt between Hayley´s splayed Legs “We have Time!” Kirsty whispered – and unclasped her Wife´s Bra. She loved Hayley´s full and firm Breasts. The Woman from Norfolk cupped them, massaged them, kneaded them. “We have all the Time in the World,” she whispered hoarsely.

Kirsty straddled Hayley, unclasped her own Bra, and bowed down till her own Breasts touched Hayley´s rock-hard Nipples …. “You love that, do you?” Her Voice was even more husky … Hayley´s Body betrayed her: She strained against her Bonds and rubbed her Breasts against Kirsty´s …


Later:

Kirsty had unwrapped the first Scarves enshrouding the Blonde´s Head. Ragna and Natasha had been thorough: Kirsty unwrapped the Scarf that blindfolded the Blonde, only to discover that Hayley was obviously pantyhooded and over that a stocking cap. At least three Scarves were left: One, a blue Paisely Scarf which Hayley wore as a Headscarf and knotted under her Chin. Another, a moss green one, covered the American's face right under the Nose. Kirsty touched it and felt at least one more Scarf beneath it, and some packing.

Finally, Kirsty had removed Pantyhood and Stocking Cap. Underneath a Wall of translucent Tape, she could detect a massive Wad of Gag Packing. Armed with a Bandage Scissor, Kirsty attacked the Tape Wall ….

Four Pairs of Panties had been stuffed into Hayley´s Mouth.

One hour later, they had showered and dressed in comfortable Loungewear and nursed some Champagne – after the Room Service had delivered a light Meal of Pasta al lemone.

Hayley smiled at her Wife, “Don´t tell me that wasn´t Fun!” “Well,” Kirsty smiled back – Ragna and Natasha were surely creative! Cheers!”


Several Hours later: The Concert Hall, backstage:


Esme looked at Chris: The Pianist was wearing an emerald green strapless Gown, a Collier made of Emeralds, her blonde Mane fell in shimmering Waves down her Shoulders. “What?” The Blonde inquired, registering the other Blonde´s calculating Look. “Nothing,” Esme shrugged, “I cannot tell what it is, but you seem to glow from the Inside.” “Is it that obvious?” Chris chuckled, “Let´s say, I had a very relaxing Afternoon.”

Esme smiled coyly. “I understand.” “You cut a dashing figure yourself,” Chris complimented the younger Woman. “This Sapphire blue is a wonderful Colour.”

“Two Minutes!” A Technician informed them.

In Silence, they waited, concentrating. Chris looked at her watch. “Come, Esme, it is Time, you will do fine!”

Together, they stepped into the Limelight. The Crowd applauded enthusiastically …. Esme and Chris bowed, once, twice, a third Time. Chris raised her right Hand. Esme was fascinated. The Blonde´s Aura was immense.

She radiated a calm Power, and the young Teacher was sure that every Person in the Hall must feel it. “She is truly a Warrior Princess.” Esme marvelled. She had heard her Friends calling her that: “The Warrior Prince of the North,” And if Esme thought about it? That was what Chris truly was. A Warrior. A Musician. She remembered when she met the Blonde the first Time at Ettal. And yet Chris was so modest, free of any vanity. Not any great Artist was free of that Sin. Vanity.

Mesmerized, Esme watched:

Chris looked each and every Spectator in the Eye from left to right. When she raised her melodious Alto Voice, it filled the Concert Hall easily:

“Dear Guests, Friends from near and afar!” The Blonde paused, “We have met today here for two Reasons! First! To bring Music of one of the greatest Composers ever to bring to life!”

“She is doing it again!” Kate Beckett smiled at her Husband. “And she always says she is bad at Speeches!” Castle chuckled, “Worse than you, my Love?” The Detective kicked her Husband firmly against his left Shin. “Shut up and listen!” Beckett whispered, “And don´t cry!”

“Second,” the Blonde continued to present you with an outstanding Talent!” Chris turned to Esme. “Come,” she whispered. Esme hesitated for a second but stepped forward. She was in a Dream. She was living that Dream. “I present to you Esme Kofler! Without her, we wouldn´t be her, and those Compositions of Mozart would never have seen the Light of Day!” Esme blushed deeply and wanted to run away from all the Eyes resting on her. “Esme is an outstanding Talent who has never shown it to the World!” The Blonde continued.

“Come,” Chris whispered, “We bow – and then you show the World who you are! I will be with you, always!” As if in a Dream. Esme stepped forward and bowed together with Chris. The Pianist touched her right Hand gently, squeezed it as they bowed a second Time.

“Aren´t they cute?” Hayley whispered, “Cuter than me?” Kirsty whispered back, “Never, my love!” The Blonde chuckled, “But you can convince me -later!” Kirsty whispered, “More than I already did today?”

“Try me!” The American chuckled, “But look!”

On the Stage, Chris and Esme had sat down at their Benches. Chris adjusted her Gown, nodded at Esme slightly, and smiled warmly. Esme looked into those incredibly green Eyes and smiled too. With Chris, she could do anything.

Her Fingers touched the Keyboard – and anything around her vanished ….


Unknown Location:


The tall blonde Man squeezed the Tumbler with an expensive Japanese Whisky in his Hand, a 21-year-old Suntory Hibiki. His handsome Features were marred by a gruesome Scar. A wave of hot Hate filled him – and admiration. Admiration for the Artists on the Stage but Hate too. Especially for Chris von der Marwitz. To see her there. At this Place? It hurt him more than the Scar on his Face or his maimed right Hand. She had taken it from him. This Jewel he had built in the Alps.

True, the last Time they met? He escaped – and enjoyed leaving Chris down in the forgotten Bunker of the Maginot Line. But if he was honest? The Blonde had bested him again. Some Part of him loved her still, and he had learned that Christine von der Marwitz was in a happy Relationship with a Beduine. With a Bedouin! Heaven’s Sake! He would have carried her on his Hands, lay the World down at her Feet – and! And she chose that Arab?

“Christine!” he spoke to no one in particular and took another Sip of his Whiskey. “You will regret it! And you will be mine!”

I said that this would be well worth waiting for, and boy, did you NOT let us down! Utterly magnificent!

I particularly enjoyed the 'duel' between Anna and the Dark Lady,

LunaDog wrote: 2 weeks ago I said that this would be well worth waiting for, and boy, did you NOT let us down! Utterly magnificent!

I particularly enjoyed the 'duel' between Anna and the Dark Lady,

Thank you dear Friend for your Praise!

Writing the Duel was really fun. And I do like both Characters very much. I am pretty sure the Dark Lady is already making Plans for an epic revenge ... we will learn about that

@GreyLord @Bandit666 @banshee @Beaumains @Bigballgag1 @Trammel @wolfman @mrjones2009 @slackywacky @Nainur @TightsBound @Pantyhose971 @TayDay95 @NotSeen @Fandango @LunaDog @Argentum @h6hlh6h @algebrauk @RopeBunny @RopeBunny @Jenny_S


Good News my Friends. Progress on the final Part is good. If things go as planned - it might be complete End of next Week

@GreyLord @Bandit666 @banshee @Beaumains @Bigballgag1 @Trammel @wolfman @mrjones2009 @slackywacky @Nainur @TightsBound @Pantyhose971 @TayDay95 @NotSeen @Fandango @LunaDog @Argentum @h6hlh6h @algebrauk @RopeBunny @RopeBunny @Jenny_S









The Concert Hall:



Sarah McKenzie was mesmerized. The Canadian wasn´t the sentimental Type. None at all. Her Nom de guerre was “The Dark Lady” for a Reason. And in the Shadow World and beyond, alone, mentioning that Nom de guerre was enough to strike Fear in the Hearts of many. Yet, today, she was mesmerized.

She couldn´t tell exactly why. Was it the Woman? Or was it the Music? Probably both. And to differentiate between the two was a pointless Exercise: In Moments like this, Christine von der Marwitz was the Music.

Sarah McKenzie was no Expert in classical Music. True, with a Degree in History of Art from the Sorbonne, she had more than a basic Knowledge of the Classics. But she never developed a deeper Interest in Classical Music. Except when she stole a valuable Autograph.

But Christine von der Marwitz, Chris, had changed her Perspective. The Canadian did not believe in spiritual Matters. Far from it. One could call her the materialistic Weasel of the Family. If someone had told her this would happen someday, that she would be part of any Family? She would have laughed about it.

Sometimes she wondered how this came to Pass. At first, Chris von der Marwitz had been a Job only. Carl von Winterfeldt tasked her to dissuade the Pianist and her Firm from their Search for the Weinstein Collection. And Sarah McKenzie had done her Job. She remembered their first Meeting in Hamburg. From the Start, there had been a Connection between the two Women. Strong Feelings even. Hate on von der Marwitz's Part, the Canadian had shot her former Fiancé, and on her Part?

The black-haired Masterthief felt the fleeting Touch of hot, moist Lips on her left Ear. “You love her!” Natasha Bolkonskaya breathed huskily. The Canadian did not reply. Instead, she pressed a certain Point on the Russian´s right muscular Thigh. Precise – and hard. Natasha inhaled sharply but suppressed a Curse. She knew her Mistress.

But Sarah McKenzie knew Natasha Bolkonskaya wasn´t wrong on that Account. She had deep Feelings for the tall blonde Pianist. Feelings that some People might have called Love. Their Relationship had always been a Rollercoaster. Neither of them had admitted their Feelings. Another Trait they shared: Talking about their Feelings, their Emotions did not come easily to them. Both played their Cards closed to the Chest.

There had been a Point when there had been a Trench as deep as the Grand Canyon between them: Sarah had “pranked” the Pianist in Vienna, made her into a Golden Statue, and left her for all the World to see. After this “Prank,” Chris had made it very clear that she did not want any Contact with her ever again. Very clearly.

But then the Events around the Hunt for the Lost Scrolls had changed Things: Sarah had rescued Chris from the unknown Land, where the Blonde had fled to after Anna´s staged Death in a Bombing.

And now? Sarah McKenzie smiled as she watched the Pianist and Esme playing. For almost a Year now, Chris lived in a Relationship with the Lord of the Medjai, Ardeth Bey. In the Canadian´s Opinion, the mysterious Bedouin was the right Man to handle the Lioness. Her Sources told Sarah McKenzie the Love Life of the Pianist and the Desert Warrior was intense. And the Masterthief was happy for the Blonde. She deserved that Luck after the Events of the last Years.

And her own Feelings? Those would the Canadian keep for herself. She would play with the Blonde, of course. Not to play with these bodacious Pair of Breasts, the firm Butt, and those strong, perfect Feet was a Sin in Sarah McKenzie´s Book. She just couldn´t resist. But first, there were other Persons on her List: Two Russians at the Top. She had Plans for Anna Alexandra Romanova and Natasha Bolkonskaya.

The Canadian looked at the Podium:

Soon the two Pianists would finish Mozart´s Sonata for two Pianos …..


Esme:


I feel like flying. I do not think. I play. I hit every Key with Ease. I never experienced anything like this before. Chris told me about this Feeling, when you are in the Flow. When technical Difficulties do not matter. When you feel you can do anything. I look up and my Eyes meet Chris´s emerald green Eyes. She smiles warmly, and I feel no, I know: She knows exactly what I am thinking, what I am feeling right now.

It is as if we play in perfect Harmony, as if I know what Chris will do before she does it. The slightest Variation of Tempo, of Volume. We are at the final Stretch. The third and final Movement. I really would like to know why Mozart buried these Compositions in Ettal. He composed them in his prime. His Genius shines through in every Note. Chris took the Time to analyze the Autograph with me. It is perfect.

Only ten Bars left. Chris nods, “Now! Let it fly!” I accelerate my Tempo slightly, and Chris follows without missing a beat. The final Da capo. In perfect Synchronicity, we hit the final Accord. I pause a Moment before I take my Hands off the Keyboard. Chris does too. There is a moment of stunned Silence. Then Hell breaks loose. Shouts of Bravo. A Wave of thunderous Applause.

Chris beams at me. “Come!” she whispers. I raise. Chris walks at me and takes my Hand. We turn to the Audience and bow. Once. Twice. A third Time, “You did really well,” Chris smiles at me. She lets go of my Hand and congratulates me. She claps her Hands and smiles at me.

The Audience stands! I don´t get it! Standing Ovations for me! But I am just Esme! I bow again – and blush deeply. I look up and turn to Chris. She is smiling that warm smile, which is just Chris “Encore?” she whispers. We talked about that, Chris has prepared a Fantasie about Rondo alla Turca for two Pianos.

I beam at her, “Encore!”

She smiles back, “I think so too! Let us give them a good Show! Remember! No Holds Barred!”

“No Holds Barred, it is!” I smile back as I take my Seat again. Wow! This is better than Sex!”


Anna smiles at the blonde Man with the chiselled Features at her right Side. His Hand rests firmly on her left muscular Thigh. “Isn´t this wonderful?” “It is,” He smiles back, “Grand Duchesse!” Anna pouts, “You could have told me you were coming, James!” The Secret Agent with the License to Kill smiles back, “I wanted to surprise you!” Anna looked long at him. “I hope you are in good Shape, Mr. Bond! “Is that so?” Bond smiles back, “May I ask why, Your Excellency?”

“Because I have plans, Mr. Bond! Big Plans!” “At your Service!” He smiled back. That was one Thing he loved Anna for. Her Fire, her Enthusiasm. He looked at her: Anna wore a black asymmetric Gown which left her right Shoulder bare. Her long, sleek black Hair shimmered. Anna wore it in a Ponytail. On her Breastbone rested a large golden Orthodox Cross, with red Rubies. Anna wore it for special Occasions only: The Cross of Romanov.

“Enjoying the View?” Anna smiled – without turning her Head away from the Podium where Chris and Esme were just taking their Seats again.

“As a Matter of Fact?” Bond teased the Russian, “I do!” – He had noticed the rosy Shimmer on Anna´s fair Skin. Anna Alexandrovna Romanova was so ready for a Brawl. And a Brawl they would have – later. In a more intimate Setting, 007 smiled. It was always a Brawl with her Grace.

On the Podium, Chris turned to the Audience, “We will play now a Fantasie about Mozart´s famous Rondo alla Turca in a Version for two Pianos.”

Applause rolled like a Tsunami across Chris and Esme.

Patiently, the Blonde waited till the Applause died down.

Encouragingly, she smiled at Esme and nodded slightly. “Now!” she whispered.

Esme and Chris hit the first Keys.

Ardeth Bey watched Chris and Esme. He was no Stranger to Western Classical Music. His Father had paid a Fortune for his Education. At the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst. Prince William and Prince Harry had earned their first Spurs there too. The Heir and the Spare. Brother against Brother. A tragic Case. The one destined to rule. The other lost. Searching for a Purpose in Life after having left the Royal Family for California.

Had he found what he was looking for? Ardeth Bey hoped that someday he would.

He could not take his Eyes off the two Women on the Podium. If asked if he loved the Blonde, who wielded her Katanas as she played the Grand Piano? He would say, “Yes, I do!” Their Meeting in the Desert had been Fate. He was sure of that. Chris was a fascinating Person. She was demanding. Warrior she was.

He knew, he would not tame her. And he did not want to. He had seen both: The Warrior and the Artist. He knew how difficult it was for the Blonde to let get go, to give up control. Whoever thought Chris von der Marwitz a cold, white, shimmering Block of Marble? They were wrong. Loving the blonde Pianist was like taming a Lioness. Today had been no exception. Chris had made one thing clear, though: “No visible rope Marks or Scratches!” Then she had smiled that enigmatic Smile. “After the Concert, though? All bets are off!”

He was always fascinated when Chris did her Magic on the Stage. The Woman who wielded the Katana with Skill and Precision could bewitch her Audience with a single featherlike Touch of her Finger. The Blonde was a complex Personality.

To breach the Walls, she had erected around her Core had not been easy. It was like a Siege: One Trench, one Wall after the other. But he was patient. And it had been worth it. The Warrior Princess of the North had intrigued him the first Moment they met. He had sensed her Grief, her Pain back then: Struggling with Anna´s Death.

And he had seen Chris fighting. Leading the Charge against Pharaoh´s Stronghold: “You are a Warrior, an Artist, and a Woman!” he had told her before the final Attack. Chris had just smiled, that enigmatic Smile, that was so typical for her, “I am what I am!”

He remembered one Moment especially:

The blonde whirled her blade above her head, pointed her blade at the gate. She reigned in her stead sharply. It rose on its hindlegs. Its other hooves cut through the air. Chris charged:

“Kiaii!” Her sharp battle cry rang through the air like a trumpet! Like one man, the Medjai raised their blades and charged down the dune like a thundering black wave, following the Warrior Princess of the North.

The storm broke loose.

He concentrated on the Music: The two Women just let it go. A small Smile curled his Lips. This Evening would be exciting. Ardeth Bey knew that playing the Piano was like a strong Aphrodisiac for Chris.

Well, he had great Stamina.


Later: Backstage



Chris sat in a comfy Recliner. She had slipped her Gianvito Rossi Platform Sandals off. Her pantyhosed Feet propped on a Footstool. Intrigued, she watched Esme playing. The Picture was crystal clear. The Audio Feed was perfect. Just now, the young Teacher played the Adagio of the second Sonata, in D-Minor.

Chris smiled. The Audience followed her every Move. It was like Holy Mass. The blonde Pianist knew that Feeling intimately. For Esme, it was a whole new Experience. “She is good, isn´t she?” Ragna smiled, “More than good,” Chris agreed. “Her Talent is extraordinary.” The Blonde smiled, “And this is only the beginning. A whole new World lies before Esme, waiting to be conquered.”

“Where is your favourite Monk?” The Icelandress smiled innocently. “I have no Idea,” Chris grinned. “He will be there in Time.” The Pianist changed Tack: “You don´t like him very much, do you.” It was an Observation, not a Question. “We won´t be best Friends for Life.” The herculean Icelandress chuckled, “He is a stuffy misogynistic Misanthrope.”

“That he is!” The Blonde smiled.

Chris concentrated on the Screen again: Esme played the final Allegro Moderato now “All true Ragna. But on a certain Level, he intrigues me. “There is more to him than meets the Eye. I really would like to know why he fled the World.” Chris added thoughtfully.

“Make him confess then!” The herculean Blonde teased her Friend.

“Maybe I will.” The Pianist replied – only half in jest.


On Stage, around the same Time:


Esme felt like Flying. It was a feeling she could not describe. Its Intensity. The Heat. She saw and heard everything with utmost clarity. The lithe Blonde did not think anymore. She just acted. Her Fingers just knew what to do. The slightest Variations of Tempo, of Dynamics, the subtlest Rubati.

Four Bars left. Three. Two. The final Accord. Esme´s Hands still rested on the Keyboard. The Silence was deafening. She took her Hands from the Keyboard and leaned back. Then Hell broke loose. A Thunder of Applause. It was like a Wave breaking at the Beach.

Esme stood and turned to her Audience as she had practiced with Chri. Shouts of Bravo. First, only a few Listeners stood, then she couldn´t believe it, the whole Audience stood as one.

“They are standing for me!” The young Teacher realized, “For me, Esme Kofler, a simple country Girl.” Of course, Esme knew she had stopped being a simple Country Girl as she entered Waldenegg´s Office. But that was the Past. This Moment. The Audience giving her a standing Ovation. That was the Present.


After the Intermission:



Backstage, Chris waited. Ragna had already left. She was alone. A knock at the Door. “Two Minutes, Frau von der Marwitz.” “Yes, I know!” Chris replied calmly. The Blonde looked at her Watch. Where was Father Malachias? That was unlike him. The Benedictine was as punctual as the proverbial Clockwork. The Seconds trickled down. 30 Seconds now. No, Father Malachias: “I will kill him, I will kill him slowly,” Chris vowed.

Another Knock “It is Time!” the polite Voice informed her. “The Audience will have to wait a little longer!” Chris called back. Perfectly calm. “I hope you have a damned good Reason, Father!” The Blonde mused. She paced the Floor. “Stay calm, my Child!” a Voice whispered in her Head. “I am calm, Sensei!” “No, you are not!” Her old Teacher told her. And he was right. She was not calm.


The Concert Hall, five Minutes later:


“This is unusual,” Anna whispered, “What exactly revered Grandduchesse!” 007 teased her. “Shut it!” The Violinist whispered back, “Chris being late it is!” She breathed in deeply, “Chris is never late!”

“Where are they?” Ekaterina whispered to Ragna, “Did she tell you something?” “No, Ástkona, she did not,” Ragna replied in hushed Tones. “I bet that Monk made a Runner!”

The second Part of the Concert should have begun ten Minutes ago. And there was a buzzing Noise in the Audience. Hushed Whispers, Conversations in low Tones. One of the perfectly untroubled Persons in the Audience? A certain Canadian. A small Smile curled Sarah McKenzie´s Lips. “Why are you smiling?” Natasha whispered, “The whole Fuss.” The Masterthief chuckled, “The Concert won´t begin without Blondie on Stage.” She smiled, “And she will be there. Trust me!”


Backstage:


Chris looked perfectly calm. Anybody, though, who knew her very well, would have been warned: The Blonde was furious. A cool, calm, and collected Chris was something to fear. Way more than a raging and shouting one. Cancelling the Concert was out of the Question. Chris had enough Routine to play a Solo Program at short Notice … it had to be Mozart ….

A knock at the Door: Chris whirled around. In the Doorway stood Father Malachias. On the outside, his usual Self. His gaunt Features betrayed nothing, but the Blonde sensed something under the Surface. She looked long at him. “You are late!” Her Voice betrayed nothing. “I had to pray, ” Father Malachias replied just as cool. “I see,” Chris nodded, “Let´s go then, we have a Concert to play.” The Pianist strode past him, stopped, and looked over her shoulder. “Father, I think a Confession is in Order – after the Concert!” Brusquely, she turned on her Heels, she strode ahead, not minding if the Monk was following her.

He would. She knew.

As she stepped onto the Podium. The Crowd fell silent. She turned to the Audience and bowed. Her peripheral Vision told her Father Malachias was doing the same. They walked to their Grand Pianos. Chris sat down, adjusted her Gown, and looked up at the Monk. Their Eyes met. He nodded almost imperceptibly – Chris returned the Nod.

Father Malachias played the first Notes of the Introduction. Grave. The deep Bass Tones of the first Bars reverberated in the Concert Hall. Chris fell in. Her Tone was immaculate.

Esme had taken her Seat in the first Row. Rachel Weinstein at her Left, Sophie and Evie at her Right. She remembered the Moment when she had stepped from the Podium Backstage. Chris had beamed at her and hugged her tightly, “You were wonderful!” A mischievous Smile curled the tall Blonde´s Lips. “This is better than Sex, don´t deny it!” Esme blushed.

“A new Star is born!” Ragna teased her. The herculean Icelandress had held herself in the Background but stepped now forward and hugged the lithe Blonde, too. “Come!” She took Esme by her right Hand. “Let us give Chris Space and Time to gather her Wits!”

Now she listened in Awe and watched fascinated the Monk and the Pianist on the Stage ….


Esme:


“Despite being in C Minor, the piece is never melancholic on its journey to triumph. Indeed, there's always a hint of hope, with the keys of E Major and A-flat Major showing up frequently despite the home key and the heavy use of E-flat Minor. Thus, this Piano Concerto in C Minor never has the gravity typically associated. It's also less cyclic than the First and Second Piano Concertos. In other words, it avoids being schmaltzy while being emotionally profound, perfect for a monk who hides a past of being a Concert Pianist, as I suspect.”

[Annotation for the Reader:

These Thoughts are not mine, they belong to my dear Friend: aknms28 User Profile | DeviantArt]

That is what Chris told me yesterday – when I learned Father Malachias and Chris would play together. “Do you have any Proof?” I asked her, “About him being a Concert Pianist.” “Not yet,” She smiles that unfathomable Smile of hers, “But I intend to get proof.”

I concentrate again on the two Pianists.

They are in Tune – not as we were, Chris and I. Different. It is just a Feeling. Something is between the two. They play both superbly. It feels like some Electric Currency is between them. The Concert´s Title is “Per Aspera ad Astra” – To me, they are like Aspera and Astra. Chris is the Light. Father Malachias the Darkness. Yet Chris is not the warm light of the Sun this Evening, but the cold, hard Light of the Moon …. She can be the Light of the Sun when she wants to: I watched her several Times live on Stage since we met in November last Year.

The Duo embarks on the final Movement …

Chris looked up. Father Malachias did too. His Face was unreadable. He was in the flow. Chris knew that. Different from her kind of Flow. The Blonde accelerated the Tempo, the Benedictine followed with Ease. He had Quality. Chris had to admit: To make one, one single Grand Piano Sound like an Orchestra – and an acute Sense for letting the Soloist shine. It was almost as if he wanted to stay in the Background. “I have to give him that,” Chris conceded.

They were about to embark on the final Part of the final Movement ….


The Audience:


Anna was fascinated. She knew Chris well enough to understand, to feel the Dynamics between the Blonde and the Benedictine. Her best Friend´s Face had betrayed nothing. But the Violinist had sensed Chris´ Irritation. It did not influence her Performance, the Blonde was way too professional for that. But it had been there, the Irritation, and Anna was curious what had happened Backstage.

The last few Bars: sempre ff Bortkiewicz had written. And Chris used the grand Fazioli´s Potential to full effect. Every one of the full Accords clear, sharp, and precise. As it should be. Now: fff Maestoso. Then the last two Accords in Half Notes: Two mighty Hammer Strokes. Perfectly played.

Chris opened her Eyes. Her Fingers still resting on the Keyboard. Again, the Monks and her Eyes met. Father Malachias looked as unmoved as ever. And then something astonishing happened. A small Smile curled Chris´ lips. And a slight nod, signalling her Appreciation of her Partner´s Performance.

Elegantly, the Blonde rose and gestured to Father Malachias to do the same. Applause and Ovations filled the vast Hall as the Monk and the Pianist stepped forward and turned to the Audience.

Warmth filled Chris from Head to Toe as she looked down at the Crowd. In perfect unison, the two unlikely Companions bowed. Malachias was a bit stiffer in the Hips as the Pianist “Again!” She whispered and grabbed the Monk´s left Hand as they bowed a second Time. Father Malachias´ Skin was dry and warm. The Monk was too surprised, and Chris Grip too firm to retreat his Hand. They rose again – and the Blonde let go, turned to her Partner, beamed at him, and applauded, clapping her Hands!

Shouts of Bravo! Now the Audience stood!


The Crowd:


In the Crowd, Sophie and Evie were clapping their Hands enthusiastically. “This Monk makes a Face that would curdle Milk!” The Egyptologist whispered to her Companion, “Yes.” Sophie smiled. “He is a real Breath of Fresh Air!”

Castle grinned at Beckett. “And this is really a Monk?” “What else should he be?” The Detective shrugged. She noticed the Look on her Husband´s Face. “Wait, you are contemplating going all 'Name of the Rose' in your next Novel?” “This complete Adventure would be perfect, you must agree, Beckett!” The Writer smiled.


On the Podium:


The Monk and the Pianist bowed again. “And now the Encore, Father!” The Benedictine nodded. His Face betrayed nothing. They took their Seats. Chris turned to the Audience, beaming, simply radiant, “As an encore, we play Johannes Brahms, Hungarian Dances, No. 5!”

Rousing Applause!

It would not be the last Encore!


Later in the Evening:


Chris stepped out through the two-winged Door onto the Concert Hall´s Eastern Terrace, a Champaign Flute in Hand. She was pretty sure she would find him here. The Moon was full and bright, illuminating the clear Sky and the Terrace with its cold, silvery Light. Chris enjoyed the cool Mountain Air and inhaled deeply.

Inside the Hall at the Reception Area, an enthusiastic Crowd was celebrating Esme. “A Star is born!” Anna had chuckled as Chris had told her she had some Business to do and would join them later. “Let me guess!” The Russian smiled knowingly. “Hearing a Confession?” “Something like that,” her best Friend smiled enigmatically. “You simply know me too well!” Anna just grinned sanctimoniously, “We are all Sinners after all!” “Looking at you, I dare say Grand Duchesse, you will commit the one or the other Sin this Evening too!” Chris teased her best Friend, “You are one to talk!” Anna smiled mischievously, “I saw how you looked at a certain Desert Warrior earlier!” Chris had the Grace to blush slightly. “Was it that obvious?” “As you said, Chrissie.” The Russian retorted, “I know you simply too well!”

Chris´s high-heeled Platform Sandals clicked loudly on the Floor Plates made of Italian Nero Portoro Marble - a black micritic limestone with golden veins containing limonite and sulphides. A small Smile curled Chris´s lips. “Carl, you really spared no effort.” Her smile grew a tad evil. “And believe me, Carl playing this Concert here in the Eyes of the World? There is no better way to get back to you!” Resolutely, she shoved these Thoughts aside as she walked towards the Banister. There in the Centre stood a gaunt, black Figure gazing into the Distance.

Chris stepped to his left Side. “This is a wonderful Place, isn´t it, Father?” For a Moment, it seemed as if the Benedictine had not heard the Blonde. But the Pianist was patient. “It is,” The Monk acknowledged finally in his laconic Manner. He still looked into the Distance. Chris waited, did not press him.

“I knew a young aspiring Pianist once. Ready to conquer the Stages of the World. Arrogant, full of himself.” Father Malachias spoke finally. His deep Voice betrayed no Emotion, as if he were talking about the Weather. “This Man,” he continued, “was ready to do anything to fulfill his Dream, his vain Ambitions, to sacrifice even the dearest, purest, and innocent Soul on the Altar of his Vanity. Not for himself but for the Art – he kept telling himself.”

Chris listened with rapt Attention. Seldom had she heard him say so much. And she was pretty sure who the arrogant young Pianist was – and even after all these Years, she sensed the self-loathing deep beneath the Surface. Chris knew that deep, dark Chasm intimately.

“One day,” Father Malachias added, “It happened …..”


The Palace: Private Cabinet – later:



Chris´s “Family”, Esme, and a few special Guests had assembled in the Private Cabinet of Carl von Winterfeldt. Rachel Weinstein had insisted on having the After-Concert-Dinner here. To anyone familiar with the Background of the Hunt for the Weinstein Collection, a not-so-subtle Reminder of the changed State of Affairs, “I am sure” Rachel had explained to Chris and Company, “Carl von Winterfeldt will learn about this.” The Heiress of the Weinstein Collection smiled, “And it will hurt his inflated Ego even more than the Concert!”

Anna rubbed her Belly. “I am hungry – where is Chris?” The Russian pouted, “Be patient, Darling!” 007 teased his Partner, “She has to hear a Confession after all!” As if on Cue, the gilded double-winged Doors in the Style of Louis Quinze opened, and Chris and Ardeth Bey stepped into the Room: “She is all Smiles,” Anna noted. The perfect Gentleman, the Lord of the Medjai, had bidden Chris his right Arm. “She is,” James Bond smiled, “It had to be the Hell of a Confession.” “I suspect something different!” Anna muttered, “But look,” Now the Russian was excited, “How the Hell did she persuade him?”

Indeed: Another Person had stepped over the Threshold, a tall, haggard-looking Monk in the Habit of a Benedictine …. Anna rose and applauded, the assembled Guests fell in. Beaming Chris waited and enjoyed the Applause. She turned and whispered something to the Monk. The Benedictine hesitated but stepped finally at Chris´s right side.

“He looks as if he has an Appointment at the Dentist,” Natasha Bolkonskaya grinned. “Not all People do love the Limelight, my Pet.” Sarah McKenzie chided the Russian, “You do, Mistress!” “Only when the Occasion requires it,” The Canadian smiled, “In our Business, public Attention must be avoided – mostly!” She lectured, “Except on Occasions like these.”

Chris smiled, “Father, let me introduce you to some People!” She had thought long where to place the Benedictine and discussed that Topic with Rachel. “We shouldn´t put him on the Spot.” The Heiress did muse, “Esme?” Chris nodded. “She is a familiar Face.” “Merit?” Rachel suggested, “If Anna can forego her Services?” Chris grinned. The Egyptian would be a good Choice. The young Egyptian Noblewoman was polite and respectful when it came to other People´s religious Beliefs. “What do you think about Sophie and Evie?” Rachel thought aloud, “I think that could Work.” The Pianist nodded.

And so, it came that Father Malachias found himself next to a Music Teacher on the verge of becoming a Pianist, a young Egyptian Noblewoman, having left her World to discover a new one, a former District Attorney with Italian Roots, becoming a Lawyer and professional Singer.

Chris smiled as she watched Merit: As Esme introduced Father Malachias, the young Egyptian rose elegantly and bowed. She could not hear what Merit said, but the Monk returned the Bow – and said something in return which made Merit blush and bow again.

Sophie only indicated a small Bow – and smiled. Before she presented Evie to Father Malachias. And the Monk – Chris noted, surprised – even smiled. This was indeed an evening full of Surprises.

“Want to tell me what you are thinking, Princess?” Ardeth Bey teased Chris and let his strong right Hand rest on her muscular Thigh. Firmly. “Grabby are we?” The Blonde smiled, “And no, I won´t tell you what I am thinking right now.” She grinned, “It might disturb you!”

“And we can´t have that!” The Bedouin smiled, “No, we cannot have that!” Chris smiled, “But I will tell you later!”

What the Blonde didn´t tell the Medjai? She loved his firm, rough Hands on her smooth Skin. When Aslan let them glide down her Spine from North to South, it made her shiver – and hot.

At the Head of the Table, Rachel stood and raised her Goblet with sparkling Champagne: “Dear Friends, Guests from near and afar!” She smiled at Chris and Esme, and Father Malachias. “Today, we were privileged to witness a Wonder! Thanks to you! So, I like to bring out a Toast! The tall, voluptuous Blonde, clad in an asymmetric white gown, raised her Goblet “To Music!”
“To Music!” the Table roared back and emptied their Goblets.

It would be a long Evening …. And the Tides ran high ….

Father Malachias had retreated to one Corner, in a comfy Armchair, and watched. He could still not believe what had happened today. The Concert had opened Gates that he had kept shut firmly, keeping them barred for Decades. Till Chris von der Marwitz had happened, he still did not know whether he should curse her or thank her. “The Confession” after the Concert? It had felt good, if he was honest with himself. Von der Marwitz was an excellent Listener. She did not press him, put any pressure on him. She had just listened.

When he had finished, she had not judged him. Just looked long at him with these brilliant bottomless emerald green Eyes – and finally said: “Thank you” without any Jest or Mockery. It was just two Words. Two Words only. “You are welcome,” he had replied curtly. Keeping his cool Façade.

“All right,” She had smiled warmly, “You will come with me now, Father!” He had wanted to protest. But he did not. Father Malachias discovered something about Christine Auguste Victoria von der Marwitz. It was almost impossible to withstand the calm Power the Pianist exuded. He had felt it on the Stage, too.

He took a Sip of the rich Scottish Single Malt. It was heavy on the smoky turf Notes. Father Malachias did not indulge in many Vices. Scottish Single Malt was one of them. The Rule of Saint Benedict allowed that – if interpreted correctly. The Conversations he had? They had been interesting.

Especially that with the young Egyptian Noblewoman. Merit was her Name. Technically, she was a Heathen. But he had sensed her deep Respect for other religious Belief and a natural Curiosity for everything new. Her Courage, too, as she had told him her Story. He would be happy to return to his Spartan cell in the Abbey, but the last Days had changed some of his Views. And to his Surprise, he felt not tempted to return to the World he had left long ago – and visited shortly again in the last Days..

He scanned the Room, and his Gaze rested on Christine von der Marwitz and her Companion: The dark-haired Bedouin with the hawk-like Nose and the bottomless Blackeyes. The Monk sensed the Harmony between the Man and the Woman. All the small Gestures, the Looks. They were an interesting Pair – and somewhere deep down in his Soul, he felt an Emotion he had thought forgotten. Something one could call Regret, Envy? His lifelong self-discipline asserted itself quickly, though, and the Feeling passed.

Overall, he was grateful: Father Malachias felt closure.

It was true: The Lord worked in mysterious Ways.


Later (Considerably later):


Two dark Shadows hurried on stockinged Feet down the long Corridor in the Palace´s Eastwing. Both Shadows carried small Backpacks. Inside all the Tools, one might need to subdue a Damsel and render her helpless.

“What do you think, my Love?” Kirsty had grinned at her Wife before the Concert, “About what? You are up to something! I know you!” The Blonde teased the Briton, “I am so easy to read, Hayley King?” The auburn-haired Woman smiled wickedly, “I know the tell-tale Signs,” the American chuckled. “What do you have in mind?”

“Some good old-fashioned Payback!” Kirsty explained, “Meaning?” Hayley prodded, though she had a rough Idea where this would go. “Administer a healthy dose of her own Medicine to Ragna!” The Woman from Norfolk smiled sinisterly.

“Ragna?” Hayley asked dubiously. The American was no Coward – but taking the herculean Icelandress on in close combat? It had been only today that Ragna had kicked her Ass. Hayley had improved her Game much since being Part of the Family and Kirsty´s Wife. The Briton saw to that. But Ragna was a force of Nature. She had taken Hayley apart, without breaking a sweat: The Blonde had ended firmly hogtied on the Gym Floor, gagged with her Socks. Elbows together, crotchroped, her big Toes tied to her braided, long, sleek blonde Hair.

“Don´t tell me you will chicken out!” her Wife had teased her. “This will be fun! – And Ragna and Ekaterina will be sleeping – so what should happen?” The American nodded, “Right then! And for the record? I never do chicken out!” She smiled, “Unlike the current Inhabitant of the White House.”

The two Shadows stopped before the Suite, which was Ragna´s and Ekaterina´s. Kirsty tapped in the security Code. A soft Click and the Door opened noiselessly. The two Women stepped over the Threshold. Kirsty listened intently: The soft breathing Sounds of a sleeping Woman. At least one. She grinned. That would be Fun! The Briton gestured Hayley to follow her. Their stockinged Feet made no Noise on the carpeted Floor.

Hayley on her Heels, Kirsty stepped into the Main Room. The breathing Sounds were now louder. Under the Covers lay a Woman, snoring slightly. Kirsty stopped dead in her Tracks. Only one Blonde … In the same Moment, the Lights went on. The sudden Brightness blinded Kirsty for a Second, as she whirled around. She stared at Ragna´s beaming Face. The Icelandress wore a skimpy baby blue Nightie which reached barely mid-hip – and a Tranquilizer Gun in her right Hand. “Did you miss me?” she smiled – and pulled the Trigger. Twice. Precisely.

Hayley and Kirsty crumbled to the Floor. Unconscious. Ragna smiled, “Come, my Love! Lend me a Hand and let us make our Guests comfortable!”

“Da!” Ekaterina smiled back and pulled her Covers aside …


Later:


Kirsty groaned. Where was she? What had happened? Then it came back to her: Ragna´s smiling Face. The Tranquilizer Gun. The sharp Prick in her Chest. Then Blackness. They had been played. Cleverly – and merciless. That was Ragna´s Style. “I am tied up,” The Briton realized. “I am tied up and gagged.” She kept her Eyes closed and analyzed her Predicament …

“Aren´t they cute?” Ragna chuckled as she looked down at the King-size Bed. “They are,” Ekaterina grinned. They had stripped their two “Guests” down to Bra, Panties, and Hose. Kirsty wore an auburn Set of Underwear. Hayley a Sapphire Blue one. “Hayley has a really magnificent Set of Assets,” Ragna smiled. “Don´t tell me more magnificent than mine, or it is the Couch for you this Night!” Her Russian Companion scolded her. “You may try my Love!” The Icelandress teased the late Boris Oblomov´s Daughter. “Look!” They are coming around!” Indeed: Both Captives stirred – and tested their Predicament.

They were tied in an involuntary Hug: Kirsty´s Wrists were tied behind Hayley´s Back and vice versa. Scarf Bands kept them squashed together: Beginning above their Shoulders, down to their Ankles. Their nyloned Feet were tied at the big Toes – and held in the en pointe Position. One Scarf fastened their joined Feet to the Footboard.

“The Stocking Caps suit them!” Ragna grinned. Under the Stocking Caps, both Women were pantyhooded. Ragna and Ekaterina had selected ripe, well-worn Panties. The Icelandress knew for a fact that she had masturbated at least three Times on the white full-back Panties she used on Hayley.

“Shall I activate their Vibrators?” Ekaterina grinned mischievously, “No, my Love!” Ragna demurred. “Let us watch them a while longer!” Hayley rubbed her Breasts against Kirsty´s. They found a Rhythm quickly as they squirmed on the Bed ….

Hayley was pretty aroused, horny like a randy Kitten, as she rubbed her Breasts against Kirsty´s. She could not see clearly, thanks to Stockingcap and Pantyhood. Both were well used – this Perfume was intoxicating. The American was sure the Underwear, which filled her Mouth to the Brim, was used as well. Their Captors had been clever and devious: They had been crotchroped individually and a joined Crotchrope too, which the two Captives could grab with their tied Hands.

In that Moment, the Torpedo styled Vibrator logged in her Vagina sprang into High Gear …
Ragna smiled at her Companion, “What shall we do, my Love?” The Icelandress leered openly at Ekaterina´s Breast. “Let me show you!” The Russian whispered hoarsely and kissed her Lover fully on the Mouth ….

Ragna felt a sharp Prick in her left Butt Cheek. Ekaterina smiled at her as she broke the Kiss. She wanted to speak but could not. Realization dawned on her Face as she glided, paralyzed, to the Floor – she would have glided if Ekaterina had not held her steady, so she glided just on the Bed.

The Russian smiled and looked down at the three Women on the Bed. “Ladies, we will have a lot of fun! Let me just prepare Ragna!”

20 Minutes Later:


Ekaterina smiled down at the Bed: Kirsty and Hayley were very enthusiastically squirming and had boarded the Orgasm Train again. “You do look good, my love!” The Russian smiled. “Though it is hard to see your Face under all that many Layers!” The Icelandress was the perfect nylon Mummy. Her Lover had stripped the Herculean blonde out of her Negligee and encased her. Kirsty´s and Hayley´s Socks she had put to good use: They filled Ragna´s Mouth. The dirty Soles turned outside. With a wicked Grin, Ekaterina jumped on the Bed and straddled the other Blonde and cupped her full, impressive Breasts. “I promised you we would have fun!”

She manipulated Ragna´s Nipples. “What do you think about some Nippleclamps?”


Another Suite around the same Time:


Sarah McKenzie lay on her Bed. Clad in a black Negligee and a Pair of black Hose, only “You have been a naughty Girl, I heard,” The Masterthief purred in her husky Alto Voice, “And you know what they do to naughty Girls, my Pet?”

Natasha Bolkonskaya shook her Head. The only Part of her Body she could move with difficulty. The Russian smiled around the 2,5 Inch Harness Ball Gag jammed in her Mouth. Her Lips contorted in an involuntary Grin. Of Course, there was Stuffing behind the large, glistening red Orb. Two Pairs of Panties to be exact. The Masterthief had asked around for some Gifts. Anna had been generous. Chris too.

The Chicken Wing Hogtie was backbreaking. Natasha´s nyloned Heels rested firmly on her Butt. The Canadian had not only tied her big Toes together and back to Natasha´s tied Elbows but all 10 Toes. The white Ropebands that rendered Natasha a helpless Bundle of human Flesh contrasted nicely with the black nylon Body Stocking.

Sarah McKenzie smiled wickedly. She stretched out her left leg and pressed her hosed Sole firmly on Natasha´s Face. Firmly. “Breath in!” she cooed – and pressed her Sole more firmly against the Russian´s Face. Patiently, she counted to 30 before she took her left Foot away. She waited a Moment and pressed now her right Foot on Natasha´s Nose. The Masterthief smiled. This would be a glorious Night!


Another Suite in the Palace:



“Having fun, Ladies?” Sophie Reichenbach smiled down at the King Size Bed she shared with Evie. Two Nylon Mummies were squirming on it. The Lawyer was excited. After Midnight Dinner, Evie and she had retreated to their Quarters, joined by Esme. Chris had asked Sophie to take care of Esme. And that she did.

Esme and Evie were squirming in their multilayered Cocoons on their Bed. Sophie smiled: Next to a tight Crotchrope, the Egyptologist and the Teacher enjoyed the Pleasures of a Vibrator. Esme had helped Sophie tie Evie up, before it was her turn: Stripped down to her Bra, Panties, and nude Hose. Esme had taped Evie´s Arms behind her back at the Wrists and above and below the Elbows. More Tapebands from above the Shoulders down to the Ankles had rendered the Egyptologist, who looked so much like Rachel Weisz, helpless. Sophie had noted that the young Teacher had enjoyed especially gagging Evie with three Pairs of Panties. A Wall of translucent Tape, Sophie had counted 20 Passes, held the Packing in. The Encasement had been next: Three Layers of nude Pantyhose. Of Course, a Pantyhood too: A black lacy full back Affair.

Then it had been Esme´s Turn. Sophie tied her in the same Fashion as Evie. Except she gagged the lithe Blonde with four Pairs of Panties – and used black Hose. Now the two Nylon Mummies squirmed on the Bed. Sophie grinned wickedly and jumped onto the Bed between Esme and Evie. The two Mummies bounced.

This would be so much fun! Sophie´s Smile was devious. She had undressed to her black Bra and Panties and nude Hose. The Lawyer knelt at the two Mummies encased Soles. “Where should I begin? You, Esme – or you, my Love?” Suddenly, she grinned wickedly. “There is a simple Solution. You know which one?” Indistinctive Mumbles. “Come on! That is not that difficult!” Sophie chuckled, “I tickle you simultaneously!”

The former District Attorney let her left Hand glide above Evie´s nyloned Soles. She knew the Woman from the Orkneys was very ticklish. Even the soft touch of Sophie´s Hand made her giggle in her packed Mouth and curl her Toes. “Don´t be such a Whimp!” the dark-haired Woman scolded her Partner. “I haven´t nearly started!” Evie gag talked back agitatedly

Her right Hand glided above Esme´s Soles. From the Heels tantalizingly slow upwards. Esme´s Feet twitched – even more than Evie´s.” Sophie smiled, “I think this Evening will be most delightful. We have established that you, Esme, are more ticklish than Evie! Let the Games commence!”

The Lawyer tickled both Women simultaneously. Soon, desperate, muffled Laughter filled the Room. Esme thought she would die! She begged Sophie to stop …. In Vain. Sophie´s Fingers danced across her soft Soles. Evie was no better off. And then the Vibrators started their devilish Work.


Chris´ Suite, somewhat earlier:


Ardeth Bey could sense it: The Power Chris was radiating. Powerful Waves – and something different. Something like Electricity in the Air. He heard the Pianist singing in the Bathroom, “I must make myself presentable for the Lord of the Medjai.” She had smiled coyly, her Cheeks shimmering rosy, as she tapped on her stockinged Feet in the Bathroom, with swaying Hips. The Medjai´s Gaze rested on the Blonde´s full and firm Butt. “I know you are staring at my Butt!” Chris had chuckled without turning her Head. “Well,” Ardeth Beth smiled, “Your Butt Princess is worth staring at!” His dark, husky Voice sent Showers of Exaltation down Chris´ Spine. “Maybe I shall spank you thoroughly later!” “Try it!” Chris shot back – and closed the Bathroom Door behind her.

The Blonde unzipped her Gown and let it glide to the Floor in a Heap of Silk. Beneath, she wore nothing but a Pair of Panties and nude Hose. Chris rolled her Panties down and smiled at her Mirror Image. “For those I will have use later!” She sniffed at them. The Pianist inhaled the Scent. Concerts like those today aroused her very much. Her Hose was pretty sweaty too, especially the Crotch Panel – and the Soles.

“I have Plans with you!” Chris smiled at her Mirror Image, “A Shower now!” Letting Aslan wait was all Part of the Game. Ten Minutes later, Chris looked again in the Mirror: The purple Red Lipstick, the Makeup was perfect. A few drops of Perfume, Shalimar, behind her Ears, her Armpits, and on her perfectly trimmed Brazilian Landing Strip. Thigh High black Stockings, black Panties and a silken Nightie – which reached Mid-thigh. No Bra “Now the best Part!” she told her Mirror Image.

With a wicked Grin, she took the Panties she had worn for the Concert, balled them up, and stuffed them in her Mouth. Chris smiled around her Gag – she tasted her Scent. She had been pretty aroused this evening. Judging by the Panties Taste. The Blonde moaned at her Mirror Image, “You have one of the most gaggable Mouths I know!” a certain Canadian had told her. “And you should know Sarah.” Chris mused. The Masterthief had gagged her frequently and thoroughly. Now the Coup de Grace: The Pair of Pantyhose …. It took considerable Effort to get the sweaty Garment in her Mouth …..

Chris looked into the Mirror: Her Cheeks were bulging. Her Jaws stood ajar, but as they said, “There is always Room for one more.” The Blonde took a Pair of Ankle Socks.

In Chris´ Suite:

The Bedouin had helped him to another Whiskey from the well-stocked Bar. A 20-year-old Ardbeg. He enjoyed the Taste very much. He had taken off his Jack and Black Tie and opened the two top Buttons. His Breast Hair was visible. Ardeth Bey listened: Chris had stopped singing. The Bathroom Door opened, and Chris stepped into the Doorway. She winked at him coyly.

The Chief of the Medjai took the Sight in: From the shimmering blonde Crown of her Head down to the purple Red painted Toes, which shimmered through the black Nylon. Two Toe Rings shimmered golden through the transparent black Material, too. His Gaze glided upwards. Rested on Chris' perfectly sculpted Calves. The muscular Thighs.

He knew their Strength. The black silken Nightie. Ardeth Bey´s Eyes rested for a long Moment at Chris´ full and firm Breasts. He could tell her Nipples were rock hard. He looked Chris in the Face: Her lower Face was hidden behind a black, silken Paisley scarf. Her bulging Cheeks told him enough: The silken Garment hid a substantial Amount of Gag Packing.

The Bedouin set his Tumbler down and rose. There was it again: The Electricity. With the Grace of a Lioness, Chris walked toward him with long, graceful Strides. He could not help himself: Mesmerized, his Eyes rested on Chris´ Breasts. The Pianist shook them invitingly. Chris closed the Distance. And stopped, Inches away from him. He felt the Heat. And sensed her Arousal.

The Blonde´s husky Moans send Shockwaves through his Body. A Smile curled his Lips. The Chief of the Medjai could read the Signs after one Year well enough: The Blonde would not go down without a Fight. Only his quick Reflexes saved him. Chris had aimed between his Legs. “So you want a Fight then, Princess!” The black-haired Men smiled. Chris's emerald-green Eyes glittered. The Pianist enjoyed this immensely.

Ardeth Bey acted quickly: He grabbed Chris by her Hips and threw her on the large Bed. The Blonde landed face down on the Mattress. The Medjai straddled his Captive. Chris was bucking like a Kentucky Stallion under him. Her flailing Heels hit him on the Back. “You want it rough, Princess?” He chuckled. Another forceful Kick.

Chris did fight him any Step along the Way, but finally he was done. Chris lay face down on the Bed – tightly spread-eagled. With silken Scarves. Mysteriously, she had lost her Negligee in the Process. Ardeth Bey enjoyed the View: Chris´s muscular, perfectly sculpted Body, her nyloned Legs. “Well, oh mighty Warrior Princess!” He grinned, “You are in for Lesson of Obedience!”

Chris´s reaction amused him: The Blonde laughed. It was well muffled. “I think you are too loud!” The Bedouin smiled: While the Pianist had made herself presentable, he had rummaged through Chris´s Drawers. And found several useful Items. Ardeth Bey straddled her again and pressed a sweaty crew Sock on Chris´s gagged Mouth. A second silken Scarf – a blue one – kept it in Place.

“That´s better, don´t you think?” The Bedouin teased the Blonde. Chris mumbled something, “Much quieter!” The Lord of the Medjai smiled – and smacked the Pianist firmly on her Butt. The Panties did not much to soften the Blow. Chris protested, which earned her two more firm Smacks on her Butt.

Ardeth Bey got up. Chris was very excited – and very horny. The Sock that the Egyptian had used to reinforce the Gag? It was very smelly, ripe. The Blonde opened and closed her Fists and flexed her Feet. “What is he doing?” Chris mused. He had gotten up from the Bed. He came again. He must have stood next to the Bed. A sharp Pain as something hit her left Butt Cheek. Her right. A riding Crop. And Ardeth Bey used it freely …

Finally, he stopped. The Bedouin smiled. Chris Butt glowed red. He went down to the Footboard. “You enjoyed it?” The Lord of the Medjai teased the Pianist. She wiggled her Butt and grated her Hips – and mumbled something defiantly in her packed Mouth. “So, the Lesson has not sunk in yet!” Ardeth Bey smiled. “You know what a Bastinado is?” He swung wide – and the riding Crop hit the Balls of Chris´ left foot. He did what the Ottomans called: Chessboard beating, as he hit the Blonde´s left Sole again.

Later:

Chris lay still spread-eagled on her Bed. On her Back, though. Her Butt hurt, as did her Soles. But she was delighted, and she was happy. Her Panties were gone. She wore her Black Stockings only. The Pianist looked up at Ardeth Bey and shook her Breasts invitingly. The Lord of the Medjai had undressed.

Chris took his battle-hardened Body in. He was aroused. No doubt about that: The Bedouin was massive. He knelt between her splayed Legs. He held something in his Hand … it was her wet and moist Panties. With a Grin, he pulled the Garment over her Head. And pressed the Crotch Panel firmly on her Nose. “You were pretty aroused,” The Medjai teased her.

He bowed down slowly and entered her gently – they found their Rhythm easily. Ardeth Bey took the long Road. “Nice and slow,” he whispered. Chris groaned as her Body took control. “You should find a Mozart more often!” The Chief of the Medjai teased her. His Thrusts were harder, more forceful – but gentle still.

Chris let go totally.

The Search for the Lost Mozart was over.


Chris and the lost Mozart.

The End.

You know there's a lot of similarities between reading your stories and listening to a classical 'masterpiece' of music played by an, or maybe more than one, accomplished musician. I take an enormous amount of pleasure in doing both!

Every one of your stories has fantastic intricate tight bondage and liberal use of pantyhose and I love it! Bravo!