The Files of Art. Inc: Single Case Files (01.09.24) "Tying the knot" Chapter 20 (FFFF+/FFFF+)

[Caesar73]

Good News: The next Chapter will be online tomorrow at the latest - all Questions will be answered, well mostly

[Caesar73]

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Dear Readers! This is the complete Chapter 17. There are noticeable Differences between the Preview and the final Edition. I hope for the better! But see for yourself. The Chapter has gotten longer than expected. Probably two more Chapters will follow. But the final Decision has not been made yet.

From the Files of Art. Inc.



Tying the Knot:


Chapter 17



Judgement Day I


New York, Early August


Hayley´s and Kirsty´s Penthouse


1000 AM

Hayley King hummed softly to herself – totally off-key. The Tune of “Supertrooper” by Abba was barely recognizable. The curvaceous Blonde stepped into her Sapphire blue Gianvito Rossi Heels. They matched her wide-legged Power Suit perfectly “Off to go Darling?” Kirsty Garrett smiled warmly at her Wife “Ready for Action!” the American smiled back.

ABBA - Super Trouper (youtube.com)

Since their Wedding at Bernstein Manor, at the Hamptons, more than two Months had passed. After their Honeymoon at Fantasy Island, Work and Life had been good for the Newlyweds:

The last two Months? They had been pure Bliss – the last Evening and the early Morning had been no exception. Hayley had woken her with a passionate Kiss – and that had only been the Start … Kirsty smiled: Hayley strived for Dominance lately. This Morning Kirsty had been the Bottom. Something she was not used to. Kirsty intended to teach her Wife a Lesson that Evening.

For the Wedding look here:

Tying the Knot: Kirstys and Hayleys Wedding Prolog by Imhotep-Ra on DeviantArt

“Your Plans for Today my love?” The Blonde smiled warmly at the Briton – that dazzling Hayley-King-Smile, Kirsty found impossible to resist “I have a Call with Kate scheduled” Kirsty stated, “I am off then!” Hayley blew her a Kiss and closed the Door behind her, Kirsty listened to the Clicks of her High Heels vanishing in the Distance.

“Hayley King,” she said to herself, still smiling “You are the best that happened to me – ever!”

Her Phone signalled an incoming Call. “Punctual as usual” the Briton smiled and took the FaceTime Call “Hi Kate!” “Hi,” the Detective grinned mischievously “How is married Life? The Detective looked intently at Kirsty “Wait! Is that a Hicky at your Throat?” The Briton blushed.

She was about to answer when Kirsty sensed a powerful Vibration under her nyloned Feet. The auburn-haired Woman froze “Kirsty?” Kate interrupted the Briton. Kirsty´s Instinct told her what her Brains realized fully only later “I will get back to you Kate! Something bad has happened!”

Brusquely she cut the Connection, stepped quickly into her beige Jimmy Cho Heels, grabbed her Glock, and stormed out of the Apartment. She did not wait for the Elevator, took the Stairs instead.

A sense of Dread filled her, she pressed Speed Dial Hayley did not take her Call “Damnit Hayley King! Take the damned Call!”– the Shockwave – she was sure now it had been a Shockwave - had to be immensely powerful….

Otherwise, she wouldn´t have felt it on the fifth Floor …

The Recipient of the Victoria Cross in her knew what that meant …. She hurried along. Her Heels hammered the Stairs. Two more levels to go!

Five more Steps, she ripped the massive Steel Door open and froze:

Dark acid Smoke filled the Underground Garage, making Kirsty cough. The Stench of Cordite, Explosives, and burning Rubber was nauseating. Hayley´s Car was a Mass of bent and broken Metal like a furious Giant´s Fist had smashed it to Pieces “Hayley!” Kirsty sprinted, to the Car. Amidst the Smoke, the Briton spotted a Body lying on the Floor - left of the Car...

One high-heeled Shoe lay on the Tarmac. A Sapphire blue Gianvito Rossi Pumps …Strangely enough it stood upright on the Floor.

She ran to the Body “Lord, let her be alive!” The Smoke bit in her Eyes. She knelt next to Hayley´s Body. The Blonde lay on her back, her Extremities askew

In later Years Kirsty realized her military Training took hold in exactly that Moment. She had served three Tours in Afghanistan for a Reason. Quickly and methodically, she checked Hayley´s Vitals. Her Wife´s face was battered and bruised; her breathing laboured. Kirsty managed to keep her feelings under Lock and Key. She was focused on the Task at Hand: “You must not die Hayley King! You simply mustn´t!”

The Briton pulled her Phone out and dialed 911 – the Call was taken after the first Ring.

Precisely and clearly Kirsty informed the Dispatcher. She had done this dozens of Times in Afghanistan. Five Minutes! The Dispatcher told her. Five Minutes! The Briton rechecked Hayley´s Vitals.

Her Pulse was weak but stable, she had trouble though Breathing. Blood trickled out of her Mouth. Kirsty dialed another Contact. She had to inform Seamus King, Hayley´s Father and Commissioner of New York.

The Call was taken instantly. It was Rachel Weinstein, King´s Girl Friend, “Rachel is Seamus around?” “Yes, but …” “It is urgent!” Kirsty interrupted her sharply “Tell me what happened?” the Heiress spoke calmly “I need Seamus!” Kirsty countered agitatedly “Tell me what happened!” Rachel remained calm. Not irritated by Kirsty´s Agitation.

Crawford´s former second-in-command did not know why she told Rachel what had happened. The Blonde, who did look so much like Queen Maxima, listened before she said “Tell the Paramedics to bring Hayley to St. Mary´s – I will call Dr. Meyers – he is the leading expert for Injuries caused by Bombs – he will be there. Seamus and I will meet you at St. Mary´s!”

Kirsty ended the Call. The Heiress had not missed a beat and acted cool and controlled. Kirsty was grateful for that. Where was the damned Ambulance?

The Briton tended to her Wife again. There were no deep open Wounds, besides some Bruises and Scratches. The complicated Breathing though was an alarming Sign – Kirsty suspected inner bleeding. With practiced Motions, she touched Hayley´s Rib Cage again. Maybe broken Ribs as well …. “Where in Hell are the Paramedics?” Kirsty fumed. Cursing her Impotence.

At the same Moment, the Paramedics Van came to a screeching halt – with flashing blue lights


20 Minutes later: St. Mary´s Trauma Centre:


Kirsty watched as the Doors of Surgery closed behind Hayley. Rachel had kept Word. Dr. Meyers and his Team had already waited for them. Now the Briton paced the Floor. Five steps to the left, five Steps to the right. Again, again and again.

She could not sit still. Not now. Clicks of High heeled Shoes interrupted her dark Musings. She looked up: Rachel and Hayley´s Father hot on her Heels. The Heiress had donned a light blue striped Power Suit and matching Heels.

She hugged Kirsty tightly “Everything will be fine!” the tall Blonde said reassuringly “Dr. Meyers is the best!” She let Kirsty go. Seamus King looked outwardly calm – but Kirsty sensed his Concern. Hayley was his only Child, Kirsty sighed “We can do nothing else than wait.” They sat down in the Waiting Area. Times passed agonizingly slowly, like through a Sandglass. Grain by Grain.

Kirsty lost track of Time. The Door to the Waiting Area opened again. Kate Beckett. The Detective had donned a black Powersuit and black Platform Pumps. The Investigator did say nothing but hugged the Briton tightly “She is strong! Hayley will make it!” Suddenly she stopped in her Tracks “Did you call Chris?”

Kirsty shook her head.

Kate grabbed her Mobile …


Around the same time, a small Hamlet high in the Mountains of Sapporo:


Grand Duchess Anna Alexandrovna Romanova was standing on the Patio of the ancient House, which Chris´ Sensei had bequeathed to his former Student. Every Year, the Blonde spent two or three Weeks here in the middle of nowhere to recharge her Batteries. This Time Anna and Merit had accompanied her.

The Russian had donned a red silken Kimono and was barefoot – the polished wooden Floor felt warm under her bare Soles – she liked the feeling of the warm smooth Wood. She felt grounded. Anna explained to Merit a while ago “I need to feel connected to the Earth when I am playing, so I enjoy playing barefoot!”

“On Stage too?” the young Egyptian had asked curiously “Even on Stage!” the Violinist smiled. Merit was very intrigued when Anna told her they would accompany Chris to Japan. She had taken everything in on the Flight and since they stayed here in the Mountains of Sapporo. With the childlike Curiosity Anna loved so much.

As different as they were; Chris, Anna, and Merit shared one Trait. To leap without looking.

Anna watched her best Friend intently. The Pianist was training with her two Katanas, which was her daily Routine. Her Skill with the Blade never failed to amaze the dark-haired Woman. Anna herself had worked hard on her Skill with the Chinese Longsword: Sensei Genda had told her during their last Training before they embarked on their Journey to Japan: “You did well Anna-San!” Which was a compliment from the stoic Japanese.

“I was good enough to beat Anck-Sun-Amun!” Anna smiled to herself. She forbade herself though to wallow in the Past:

The Hunt for the Lost Scrolls: Chapter 93: by Imhotep-Ra on DeviantArt

The Russian concentrated on the Present:

Chris had just finished a lightning-quick Combination with her two Katanas – as Anna´s Phone vibrated in the left Pocket of her silken Kimono. The dark-haired Russian took the iPhone out and answered the Call:

“Kate? How is it going in New York?” Chris had sheathed her Blades and listened as the Russian spoke at length: Her facial expressions changed: From Shock to a steely Resolve.

“We will take the first Flight to New York Kate. Send Kirsty our best!” Anna ended the Call and her dark eyes fixated on Chris “Hayley?” the Blonde asked calmly “Someone tried to kill her with a Bomb in their Underground Garage. She is in Surgery still.” Anna informed the Pianist.

Chris´ best friend did not bother to waste time pondering the Question of how the Blonde knew, Kate had informed her about the Bomb Attack on the American.

Chris's emerald, green Eyes now resembled chunks of green, emerald Ice “Crawford!” she spat

“Anna, Merit pack our Things!”


St. Mary´s Trauma Centre, Waiting Area:


Kirsty stared at the Linoleum Floor. She had no precise Idea of how much Time had passed. A glance at her watch told her: Over five Hours. Five endless Hours. Five terrible Hours. The Briton looked up at the Door to the Waiting Area – it was pushed open: A Woman entered and strode at them with purposeful Steps. Like Kate Beckett the Newcomer wore a black Powersuit. On her feet black Ankle Boots. Her shiny black hair she wore in a stylish Bob. It shimmered like polished Ebony.

Kirsty rose. Sarah Mac Kenzie, also known as the Dark Lady, said nothing as she hugged the Briton tightly. In the usually cold coal-like Black Eyes, she saw deep Sympathy. Usually, a small ironic Smile curled the Canadian´s Lips.

Not today.

The Master Thief looked the Briton straight in the Eye “I know what you feel right now” she said calmly “Hayley will make it! She will! Believe in that will you!” The Canadian held Kirsty firmly by her Shoulders “Look at me! Believe me!” Kirsty could not do anything different than nodding “I do!” So great was the Thief´s Aura “It is so hard!” Kirsty whispered.

The Vibrations of a Smartphone interrupted them. Kate stood and took her Phone “I have to take this Call!” She listened intently. The Detective looked at Kirsty and Sarah “The CSI preliminary Report is in….” “I join you!” Sarah McKenzie said resolutely – maybe my knowledge comes in Handy ….”

Rachel exchanged a look with Kirsty – projecting Strength. That she was not alone in these dreadful Hours gave her Strength. Rachel was there. Kate. Sarah – Chris and Anna were on their Way.


Another Hour later:

The Door to Surgery opened … Dr. Meyers stepped out. His scrubs were bloody. Kirsty tried to decipher the look on his face “He looks tired but gives nothing away!” The Briton steeled herself – for the Worst.

Meyers walked at her.

“Mrs King-Garrett?” Kirsty nodded “Your Wife is stable – for now. We could stop the inner Bleeding. The Explosion ruptured some major blood vessels. I will not lie to you: She is in critical Condition still. We lost her almost on the Table twice. But Mrs. King is a fighter!” “But she will live!” Kirsty could not restrain herself any longer “Won´t she?”

The Surgeon looked with deep Sympathy at the distraught Briton “I cannot tell you no more than this: If she makes it through the Night, she has a good Chance!” “When can I see her!” Kirsty pleaded “Your Wife will be transferred now to the Intensive Care Unit!” Meyers continued and raised his Hand as Kirsty was about to interrupt him again “As soon as she is settled in, you and her closest Relatives” he looked at the Commissioner and Rachel Weinstein “Can see her!”


Mystery Island somewhere near the Ligurian Coast around the same time:


On the Patio of her Lodgings stood Elizabeth Crawford and stared at the bright blue shimmering Mediterranean – without really taking in the wonderful Sight “So she has gotten away! Again!” the Criminal Mastermind cursed under her Breath.

The Message she had got from New York had been plain enough: Hayley King was still alive! How could she! Her many contacts had verified the Message by now: There had been reports about a Bombing in a Parking Garage in Queens, New York …

What had Harper told her? “We know that an Ambulance arrived on the Scene and left Minutes later. Our Contacts made discreet inquiries in all important Clinics – but no Casualty of a Bombing has been admitted to one of them!” Crawford had bitten a curse between her Teeth. Her second in Command had waited patiently “I advise you to upgrade Security!” Harper advised calmly, not at least intimidated by her Bosses´ Anger.

“Then do it!” the Master Criminal had snapped “I already did!” The Blonde nodded – but did not leave “What!” Crawford challenged her “We should prepare for a Retaliatory Act” Her second in Command suggested, “As soon as von der Marwitz learns about the Bombing she will act!”

It cost Elizabeth much self-control, not to snap again “So you expect Retaliation?” she asked with surprising Calm “Von der Marwitz said as much – and the Woman does not make empty Threads” Harper replied equally calmly “But this Time she will come for you.”

“Right,” Crawford said curtly “Then do your Job! You can go!”

The Briton curtly dismissed the Blonde.

After Harper had left Crawford stepped onto the Patio and starred at the Sea, what had Kirsty written? The Words seemed etched into her Skull; she had the feeling of hearing Garrett speaking:

“[…] Before Chris cleaved Hiram Al Mansours Head in two, she gutted him like a fish, after she had shredded him to Pieces. Not metaphorically. If you think Chris will hesitate one second to do the same to you? Do not doubt. She will. After your misguided attempt to spoil our Wedding don´t count on her Mercy.

She will show you none. I mean it: None. Remember that always: None. From now on you will always look over your Shoulder. You will never know if Chris is behind you. Will it be the swift Stroke of a Katana? The sharp Pain of a Shuriken between your Eyes? A Dagger to your Heart?

Watch your Back Liz and think very carefully about what you will do.[…]


“That Blonde is just an overrated Musicians with some Skill with the Blade nothing more!” Crawford tried to convince herself “She won´t get at me! This Blonde with the big Boobs was just lucky!” she scoffed. The Criminal did not realize she had spoken the last Words aloud.

A small, but persistent Voice inside her head whispered “But what if she does get at you? What will you do then?”

And for a spell, Crawford saw that serene, beautiful Face and those icy cold emerald Eyes as clear as if the Pianist stood right in front of her. Fixating her with those Emeralds of cold green Light:

“You will never know when I strike. Will it be the swift Stroke of a Katana? The sharp Pain of a Shuriken between your Eyes? A Dagger to your Heart?”

The Briton shuddered: Did her Mind play tricks on her? She had heard von der Marwitz's cold melodious Alto Voice ….

This was just impossible!



Later: Intensive Care Unit of St. Mary´s:


After they had donned green Scrubs, Kirsty, Rachel, and Seamus King were admitted to Hayley´s Ward: The Sounds of the Machines were the only ones, which broke the Silence.

Several Liquids dropped through an IV-Unit, with several tubes into Hayley´s Veins. Her pale and bruised Face was covered by a breathing Mask “She looks so incredibly fragile and pale!” Kirsty needed every ounce of her self-control, not to rage and to scream. She just wanted to hold Hayley in her Arms …

On the Battlefield, she had lost Comrades, Friends even - “But it is my Wife now!” “Don´t you dare to quit on me, Hayley King! Don´t you dare! You hear me!!” the Briton whispered “She won´t” Rachel touched her gently on her left shoulder “You know her! She won´t!”

The Commissioner joined his Companion and touched Kirsty on her right shoulder “She won´t quit” he said soothingly into his deep Baritone – and something in his Voice made her believe him. Kirsty Garrett, the hardened Veteran, decorated with the Victoria Cross wanted to believe him. But there was a lingering doubt.

“If I only could do something!” Kirsty mused “Anything! I would do it – and even if it cost my life!” But in this Moment, in the Intensive Care Unit of St. Mary´s, the Briton realized that she should do nothing. Nothing else but being there for Hayley “I can only let her know I am there.”

Kirsty pulled a Chair nearer and sat down at Hayley´s left side, laying her warm right hand on Hayley´s left. It was clammy and cold. She could not see much of the Blonde´s battered Face: The breathing Mask covered it. Her Chest did barely move. The Briton looked at the Monitors: Hayley´s Pulse Frequency was low, low but steady. At least Kirsty kept telling her it was steady.

She forgot anything around her. Kirsty had the feeling that she could hear any Grain of Sand falling slowly through the Hour-Glass. The auburn-haired Woman did not know how much time had passed as she felt a soft touch on her left Shoulder, which brought her back to the Present “Seamus and I will go now!” Rachel Weinstein whispered gently “Should I bring you anything?” Kirsty shook her head “I am fine, thank you!” That had sounded harsher when she wanted to, she knew.

Rachel kissed her gently on her head “Everything will be fine!”

Seamus King bowed down and kissed his Daughter on her cold and sweaty forehead. The Commissioner whispered something barely audible. Kirsty was not exactly sure what, but it had sounded like “Don´t leave me, my Child, please! Don´t go away!” Then he raised, nodded curtly at Kirsty – and left – Rachel followed him.

“How hard must that be for him!” Kirsty looked after them “He has lost Hayley´s Mother, his Daughter got kidnapped for Months, then he finds finally some luck – and now Hayley´s Life hangs by a threadbare Thread!”

At this Moment something grew cold and hard inside Kirsty, a steely resolve: “If Hayley dies Lizzy – I will shred you to pieces! No!” She corrected herself “I will shred you to pieces anyway!”

The Monitors beeped in their steady Rhythm. The Hours passed. Kirsty dozed off – but in the heart of the Night, something woke her up. She needed a Moment to get her bearings. She was still in the Intensive Care Unit.

Hayley still seemed to breathe slowly but steadily. Kirsty was sure to hear a Voice. A Voice that had woken her “I know that Voice!” she realized “It is Sophie! Sophie sings “I know that Song!” Kirsty realized. It was really as if the Lawyer was here, in this Room!

It was a Memory: At their Wedding, Sophie had sung a Psalm for them: Psalm 121, Kirsty remembered now – and she began to recite the Words of the Holy Scripture:

“I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.

My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.

He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber.
Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.

The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand.

The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night.

The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul.

The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore!”

(7546) Psalm 121 with lyrics - Queen Elizabeth Funeral Service - YouTube


She would not dare to sing the Words of the Holy Scripture, Kirsty, the Child from rural Norfolk. At School Mr. Bryce-Scott, a miserable stuffy bonehead, had thrown her out of the School Choir once “Garrett, get out of my Choir! You cannot hold time, you sing like a rusty bucket, get out, get out, get out!” Teenage Kirsty had repaid him: She had cut the tires of his bicycle. Kirsty had to smile at the memory ….

As she recited the Verses of the Bible, she had the feeling that Hayley´s still cold and clammy Hand grew warmer “Don´t be naïve!” Kirsty scolded herself “These are just Words – and your Imagination!”

Time passed slowly, like tree resin dripping from a Douglas Fir.


Sapporo, Japan, around the same Time: A private Lading Strip:


A shimmering white private Jet stood on the Tarmac, ready to take off. The skilled Observer would have recognized it as a Global 8000. It bore no identification Marks. Three Women stepped up the Gangway. Two were tall: One blonde, one dark-haired, the third – at least a head smaller – kept herself two Steps behind the dark-haired Woman. All three wore outdoor Gear. They entered the Jet. The Door closed with a soft Hiss; the Gangway was rolled away. 10 Minutes later the Global 8000 rose to the Skies.

Inside the Jet, later:


As the Jet had reached cruising altitude, Chris von der Marwitz loosened her safety belt. Anna Romanova mustered her best Friend: The Blonde seemed relaxed “That was quite the Trip down to Sapporo” The Russian smiled “I did not expect the Helicopter to break down” the Pianist shrugged. One of the Helicopters Turbines which should have flown them down from the Mountains to the Airfield had been defective – so they had to wait for a replacement.

Anna had expected that Chris would grow impatient, but the Blonde did not. To the Russian´s Surprise, the Pianist had displayed the Calm of a Saint. Chris checked her Smartphone – and put it away “Any News?” the Violinist ventured “No” Chris shook her head “Nothing new: Hayley is out of Surgery but in critical Condition. Kate and Sarah will keep us in the loop.”

The Russian nodded “I will take a nap!” she yawned “You do that!” Chris smiled. Anna leaned back and closed her Eyes and Minutes later the Pianist heard her best Friend´s deep and regular breathing: Anna could sleep at anytime, anywhere. Even on sturdy Rock. Merit was sleeping too, snoring softly.

Chris gazed out of the Window – deep in thought. Elizabeth Crawford would regret that Act of a Coward “I warned her” the Pianist thought “Several Times” Her classical features grew hard as Marble: “You will regret that, Elizabeth.”

Every passing Minute brought them nearer to New York …. Chris looked at her Mirror Image: Two cold emerald pools of Ice were staring back.




The next Morning: Intensive Care. St. Mary´s, New York:


Kirsty groaned. A searing Pain in her Neck had awoken her from a fitful Sleep. Something snapped audibly as she moved. It took her a moment to get her bearings: Her Head rested on Hayley´s Mattress, her right Hand on her Wife´s left Hand. Had the Blonde´s Hand yesterday and in the night felt cold and clammy it felt warmer now! It felt definitely warmer now. She was sure.

The Briton looked at the Monitors, still beeping in their monotonous steady rhythm. Kirsty´s Eyes wandered to the Heart Monitor: Steady, regular – she tried to remember the last Figures she had seen before she had dozed off:

Haley´s Pulse was stronger, definitely. And – the Briton listened intently – her Wife´s breathing did not sound as laboured as before …. She could not turn away her Eyes from the Heart Monitor ….

A slight pressure at her right Hand startled her.

Kirsty wheeled around, and looked at Hayley´s Face, partly hidden by the Oxygen Mask. The Blonde´s Eyelids definitely fluttered. Another soft pressure. Hayley´s Fingers gripped her right Hand. Her Eyes shot open. The dazzling blue Eyes were cloudy, but they fixated on her.

Hayley´s breathing quickened “Shhh Hayley! I am there! Calm down! I get the Nurse!” But the Door already opened, and the Nurse of the Night Shift charged in “Maria Funchal” Kirsty read on her Name Tag “She is awake Maria!” Crawford´s former second-in-command exclaimed.

Quickly and professionally the young Nurse checked the Readings of the Monitors “Miss King calm down. You are in Hospital! I will get the Doctor!” The calming Voice of Nurse Funchal had the desired effect: Hayley´s Breathing got more regular. Her Eyes were clearer now.

Kirsty pressed her left Hand firmly “I am there my Love! You will be OK! Look at me! Look at me!” Slowly Hayley focused on the Briton. She wanted to say something “Shh!” Kirsty said softly “The Doctor will be there soon!”

Maria Funchal returned, Dr. Meyer´s on her Heels. The Surgeon smiled “Our Patient is awake! Remove the breathing Mask!” he ordered the Nurse - with the ample routine that came with long practice he checked Hayley´s Vitals and her Reflexes.

The Blonde wanted to say something, but it was nothing more than a hoarse Whisper “The Nurse will get you some Water Mrs. King!” Dr. Meyers said in a soothing Voice “It will get better then!”

Kirsty had stepped back, to give the Professionals Room: The young Latina returned with a Cup of Water and a Straw. Gently she pressed it between Hayley´s dry lips “Take small Sips, slowly, one at a time!” Slowly the Blonde took one Sip, then another. Finally, she leaned back “What happened, where am I?” her Voice a hoarse Whisper still.

“You are at St. Mary´s Hospital” Dr Meyers explained gently “You were admitted after a Bombing” “A Bombing?” Hayley whispered “I” She paused, thinking hard, “I remember nothing” “That kind of retrograde Amnesia is quite usual” the Surgeon supplied “Your Memory will return. Now rest! I will look after you later – and explain anything!”

But Hayley didn´t hear his last Words, she was already asleep again. Kirsty looked with deep affection at the sleeping Blonde. The Monitors beeped steadily and regularly.

The auburn-haired Woman took her Smartphone, opened one App, typed one Word, and pressed “Send”.

The Message read “Supertrooper” – the Code Word that Hayley had woken up. The Message was read in Hamburg, at London, at Geneva, in a Jet on its Way to the States, and in New York.

The next Time Hayley woke up, it was Midmorning. She had trouble processing what had happened. Dimly she remembered a Doctor, telling her she had been admitted to Hospital after a Bombing … “I still cannot remember a thing!” The blonde racked her Brain – and kept her Eyes closed, listened to her Body: She felt no Pain “Amazing Painkillers!” she deduced.

Hayley opened her Eyes – and looked up at Kirsty´s beaming Face “There you are again Sleepyhead!” “How long was I asleep?” “Four Hours straight!” the Briton smiled – and Hayley noticed the Relief on her Wife´s Face – even if she did her best to hide it.

Only now did the American realized how hungry she was. Something had given her away “I will fetch the Nurse to get you something to eat!” Kirsty smiled “Don´t go away!” “Comedian!” the Blonde muttered – and shifted in her Bed. And winced slightly … she looked around: She was on Intensive Care. For the first Time, she took in her Environment fully.

It took Kirsty not long to return with the Nurse of the Day Shift—a lithe bubbly Blonde, rolling a Trolley with a Tray in the Room. There were only three Items on the Tray: A bottle of sparkling Water with a Glass, and something which looked like a bowl of Soup.

Something must have shown on Hayley´s Face: “Doctor´s Orders Mrs King” Nurse Stefansson smiled “Today it is a light Soup only!” Hayley managed to pout – which made Kirsty smile. The Briton winked at her Wife.

Minutes later Hayley sat upright in her bed, while Kirsty was spooning her the hot Soup – more a broth, a rich one. She had to admit, that it tasted better than expected. Patiently the Briton fed her one Spoon at a Time. Gave her Time to swallow.

After the last Spoon Hayley sighed and leaned back contently “That felt good!” Kirsty looked at her intently “She looks better, but something is on her Mind” The Briton took the Bull by its Horns “What is it, Hayley? Just ask!” She waited – and a Part of her feared the Answer.

The Blonde pulled herself together “What happened yesterday?” she said softly “And who did it? I need to know! Anything!” Kirsty hesitated “You are stalling” her Wife observed gently “Whatever it is: I can handle it!” They locked Eyes.

Time stood still “Right” the Woman from the small Hamlet Warham with 146 Inhabitants, conceded finally “I will tell you anything we know!” She paused “The Moment your Pulse, your Bloodpressure goes up? I will stop!”

“Right then” the Blonde nodded “Begin then!” “Who did it?” Kirsty shrugged “I guess we know the answer – even if we can´t prove it.” In an afterthought, she added “Yet” Hayley´s battered face gave nothing away “Carry on!” “She looks so calm and composed” Kirsty mused “But on the other Hand? If anybody knows what Lizzie is capable of? It´s Hayley!”


Notice to the Reader:
If you want to learn more about Hayley´s Story read “Nothing Personal” by @AliasMisterJones


Kirsty continued her report, about Yesterday´s Events. How she had taken Kate´s Call, sensed the Vibrations of the Bomb, had hurried down to the Parking Garage …. “And that was it!” she finished finally.

“Hayley?” Kirsty asked but the Blonde was asleep again. Kirsty could not help herself: A warm feeling floated through her Body as she looked at the sleeping Hayley. Her Chest moved in a steady Rhythm – and her breathing was regular. Kirsty stood and kissed the Blonde gently on her forehead “What would I do without you, my love!”

She sat on the Chair next to Hayley´s left and looked at the battered and bruised Face “She looks so fragile, but she is so strong!” To herself, she vowed. “I will send Crawford to Hell. Once and for all!”

Time passed slowly. But Kirsty was content: Looking at the peacefully sleeping Hayley “I almost lost you! What would I do without you?”

That Nurse Stefansson did enter and took the Tray and its Contents away? Kirsty did not register. She must have dozed off. The Klicks of High Heels on the Floor woke her

Rachel Weinstein entered, wearing a violet Power Suit with matching Heels. They exchanged Pecks on the Cheeks “I brought you a Change of Clothes, Toiletries – and something to read.” The tall voluptuous Heiress smiled “How is the Patient?” Kirsty shrugged “She sleeps much – but that is the Pain Medication probably- besides that? Hayley seems stable. Dr. Meyers says this is a good sign.”

“Then you should believe him,” Rachel said sincerely “He is one of the best in the Field!” One hour later they were joined by Kate Beckett and Sarah McKenzie. Hayley was awake now and smiled at them “Hi!”

Rachel had ordered Coffee and Cake for them – and soon they were chatting amiably.

“Where are Chris and Anna?” Kirsty looked at her Watch “They should arrive any Minute!” the Masterthief smiled. As if on Cue the Door opened and Chris, followed by Anna and Merit entered “You have gone all Charlie´s Angels!” Hayley smiled.

And indeed: The Pianist and her best friend wore wide-legged Power Suits and wooden Platform Sandals: Chris in White, Anna in Red. Both wore their long Hair open. Merit held herself in the Background.

Hayley felt Chris´ Eyes resting on her. And the calm Power, the Blonde radiated. The Pianist smiled warmly “You are getting better!” she said gently. Kate interrupted them “What held you up so long? We expected you earlier!”

Anna smiled “The Helicopter broke down! We had to wait for another one!” Chatter filled the Room till Head Nurse Hadley Scott charged into the Room, eyes blazing “This is Intensive Care, not a Café! Miss King needs rest! Everyone out! Except Miss King-Garrett! Now!”

Even the indomitable Black Lady was impressed “Right then! See you, Hayley!” They filed out.

“She was really bossy!” Kate grinned “Not more than Chris!” Anna chuckled. Chris raised her Eyebrows but said nothing. The Thief was amused – as she watched the Back and Forth between the two best Friends “Listen!” she raised her voice only slightly “What do you think about that?”

“About what?” Chris had an Idea where the Thief was heading: “Why don´t you stay all at my Place, you get some rest, we get Dinner and then talk Shop!” Anna´s Eyes brightened up “Sounds like a Plan!” The Masterthief was pretty skilled in the Kitchen.

Chris mustered the Thief intently “Under one Condition only!” “Which is?” The Thief smiled innocently “None of those Pranks you love so much” the Blonde added sternly “I never would!” the Canadian smiled mischievously “That´s why I said it! Are we clear?” Her green Eyes drilled into the Thief´s obsidian ones “You are such a Spoilsport at Times Chris!” “Are we Clear?” The Thief sighed exaggeratedly “We are!” Now the Blonde smiled “Keep that in mind always!”


Around 0500 PM: Sarah McKenzie´s Penthouse:



Chris looked around at her spacious Guestroom and smiled: It was the same one she had occupied during her last Visit. The Pianist had to smile: Besides the King Size Bed laid a Tatami. At its head stood a large Bee Wax Candle and two Incense-Holders “How well she knows me!”

Chris unpacked, undressed, and went into the Bathroom. She showered hot and cold and changed into a pristine white Kimono. They had agreed to meet at 0800 PM for Dinner. Chris would meditate and then rest for one or two Hours. The Jet Lag caught up with her. Gracefully she sank to her Knees - lightened the Candle and the Incense, which filled the Room with the Scent of Ariola Pine.

Chris breathed in deeply. In. Out. In. Out. Her Eyes focused on the Candle, which burned calmly and steadily. It did not flicker. Her Palms rested on her Thighs. Slowly her Breathing got deep and regular. Anything around her diminished. There was only the steady Flame of the Candle. Nothing Else.

She stepped into the Courtyard of Himeji Castle. Under the old Cherry Tree in its Centre, which happened always to be in full blossom when she visited the Courtyard, someone waited. Someone she knew well.

Warmth filled her as she walked at the Man … Chris folded her Hands before her Breast and bowed deep “Sensei!” “Raise Christine-Sama!” her old Teacher bade her, and the Blonde rose. Her old Teacher mustered her intently. Content with what he saw, he smiled “You do look well!” Chris bowed slightly and returned the Smile “I feel well Sensei!”

“Why have you come to see me then, my Daughter?” Sensei Nakamura inquired courteously “There is a Reason why you have come to see me!” The Pianist nodded “There is Sensei. I need your Counsel in an important Matter!” The Japanese smiled warmly “Then let us go for a Walk and you tell me about it” Chris smiled too “Gladly Sensei!”

Master and Student walked the Courtyard. Chris spoke and her Sensei listened. It ever had been that Way. Though the Blonde was no longer a “Student” in the strict Sense of the Word: She was a Master in her own right.

But to her Sensei Nakamura would ever remain her Sensei and she, his Student. It was a matter of Respect and Reverence. And if Chris had learned anything through her Sensei´s Teachings it was this Lesson: Learning was a lifelong Matter. Perfection was an Illusion. There was no such thing. There was only Perfectibility. The Striving for Perfection.


Later:


Chris left her Room and followed the heavenly Scents to the large Living-Room-Kitchen-Area which formed the Centre of Sarah McKenzie´s spacious Logings. She felt relaxed and at Ease. The Discourse with her Sensei had helped her to decide. Chris was sure now what had to be done.

The Pianist wore her shimmering golden Mane open. Like a Cascade, it flowed down her Shoulderblades. Chris wore white, loose-fitting Yoga Pants and a deep green Tank Top. Her Gizeh-Birkenstocks matched the Top in Colour. For a moment she took in the Sight:

Merit was laying the large rectangular Table – made of polished Ebony. Kate was busy with her Laptop, Anna and Sarah were working in the Kitchen: The Russian stirred in a large Pot, and the Canadian cut Vegetables with fast and precise Motions.

“Hi, Chris!” Anna did not bother to turn to her Friend. The flapping Sound of the Birkenstocks was a clear giveaway “We thought you overslept!” the Violinist teased her Friend good-naturedly “Just waiting for the right Moment” Chris smiled “What is on the Menu?” She breathed in deeply: “If I had to guess: Italian?”

“For a Blonde you are really bright at Times!” the Canadian grinned without interrupting cutting a cucumber into fine Slices. She finished and laid the incredibly sharp Japanese Kitchen Knife aside: “For Starters?”

“Insalata Frutti di Mare!“ Anna seconded.
“Primi?” The Russian continued
“Spaghetti Carbonara alla Romanova” Sarah McKenzie added.
“Secondi?” Ragu di Cinghiale!” The Canadian smiled
“And for Dessert?” Anna finished “Cassata!”

Chris smiled “Sounds very well!” She grew serious “After Dinner we will talk shop. If I look at you and Kate you can barely wait to tell us, what you did find out!” The Detective looked up from her iBook and smiled enigmatically “Let it put me this way: We are on the Verge of a breakthrough. Sarah is waiting for one last Piece of the Puzzle ….”

“You have outdone yourself!” the Pianist admitted later as she loaded another generous helping of Ragu di Cinghiale on her Plate. The golden-yellow Pappardelle were homemade and were perfect for the Ragu made of Wild Boar.

Time passed quickly and the Conversation moved swiftly from one Topic to another. Over Dessert Anna told her Companions about her Holiday in Cornwall with 007 two Weeks ago:

“We found us a small Island on the Cornish Coast! One day we landed in a small, secluded Cove, there we had Picknick … and ….” The Russian smiled coyly; her Cheeks slightly rosy “James spreadeagled me on the Beach in the Surf! He released me only, when the Water had nearly reached my Chin!”

“But that was not the End, wasn´t it?” Kate teased her Friend “No!” Anna´s smile got broader “We made love at the Beach!” Her Gaze wandered to Merit, grinning mischievously “Did Merit tell you; she is in love? I mean really in love?” The young Egyptian blushed and looked at her lap.

“Come Merit! Tell us, there is nothing to be ashamed of!” the Russian prodded “He studies Law!” the Egyptian smiled “He is so cute!” She beamed “What I find strange? In Egypt, a Woman interested in a Man makes the first Step! Here Women wait for the Man to engage them!” “And you made the first Step? I take it?” Kate Beckett grinned “She did!” Chris added smiling. Merit blushed again “Chris caught them in flagrante delicto!” Anna supplied.

“And read him the Riot Act?” Sarah McKenzie chuckled “I did. He understood perfectly!” The Blonde smiled “He is a good Boy!”

“What is with you and Ardeth Bey?” Sarah McKenzie turned at the Pianist “All is well!” the Blonde smiled enigmatically, obviously not willing to share the salacious Stuff. “Then let me tell you a Story one of my Contacts in Aswan told me a few weeks ago” the Master Thief grinned like the proverbial Cheshire Cat. The Pianist still smiled.

“My Contact works at a private Airstrip mind you” the Canadian continued “One day a white Private Jet landed and a tall Blonde left. On the Tarmac she was greeted by a dark-haired mysterious Desert Warrior” The Canadian smiled at Chris mischievously “How am I doing so far?” Chris still smiled “I have nothing to say!” “The two left!” Sarah continued “Rumour had it, they spent a few days in the Desert!”

“A Week” Chris smiled.

Indeed, Chris had met Ardeth Bey in Aswan. They had spent the Time at a small Oasis in the Heart of the Western Desert, with a Pond, and the Ruins of a Coptic Hermitage. The Leader of the Medjai had shown Chris the Wonders of the Desert, they had made love under the myriads of Stars. Of course, the Blonde had it made not easy for Aslan.

They enjoyed both the Fights which ended often in passionate Love Making – and more than once Chris had ended tied up. The Pianist felt something that she had not felt long ago – “Something I would call Love?!” she smiled to herself. She was not sure. But that did not matter: “One Step at a Time!” she told herself.

“You won´t tell us the juicy Details?” The Canadian prodded “No, I will not!” Chris declined with a Smile.

After Dessert and a well-aged Grappa di Tocai Castagno Barrique, the Ladies reconvened from the Dining Table to the comfier Couches and Chairs in the Living Room. Chris had slung her long legs under her and nursed a fine Brunello di Montalcino.

She looked intently at Kate and Sarah “What did you find out?” The Blonde had noticed that during Dinner the Thief had left the Table for a few Minutes. When she returned a small smile curled her lips … Not for the first Time the Canadian was fascinated by how quickly the Pianist could change from Small Talk to Business.

The Masterthief and the Canadian exchanged a look. Beckett nodded subtly “Justine activate the Screen!” McKenzie ordered the AI that controlled the Penthouses Systems “Of Course Mistress!” the Voice of Cate Blanchett spoke. A soft Hiss and a few Panels of the southern Wall glided aside. Behind them: A large, polarized Screen.

“Kate will inform you first about the Findings of the Crime Scene Unit – then I will take over!” Now the Canadian had the undivided Attention of her Guests. Kate stood and turned to her Friends … her keen grey Eyes fixated on them:

“I will spare you the technical Details, but the Lab worked overnight – and they came up with some interesting findings: Hayley was incredibly lucky. If she had been one Meter nearer to the Car, the Blast would have killed her.”

Kate let that sink in “It was a truly professional Hit Job. There are only a few People able to build such a Bomb! Now it gets really interesting: The Crime Scene Technicians managed to find pieces of the used Detonator. It is rather unique I was told, and it is something of a Fingerprint. A Cross Check with the Databases produced interesting Results:

The same Make and Model has been used in a Series of high-profile Bombings. The Assassin left never any Traces, so Law Enforcement around the Globe dubbed the Individual in Question “The Ghost”.

Chris said nothing but looked highly concentrated at the Screen, where a List with Dates and Locations appeared. Anna did not escape the Master Thief did smile very pleased with herself “But I guess our mutual Canadian Friend can tell us more about “this” Ghost, right?”

Sarah McKenzie couldn´t help herself “How very perceptive of you Grand Duchesse – as usual, you are spot on!” The Russian didn´t take the bait though “I know you well enough!” she smiled sweetly instead.

“Well,” The Canadian continued unabashed “I made several inquiries, called in some Favours – and persuaded some not-so-savoury People” Her smile harboured on sinister now “You did not kill anyone?” Chris interrupted – only half in jest. They all knew the Ways of Sarah McKenzie “persuading People” well enough.

“Of course I did not!” The Black Lady smiled “I am reformed now, you know!” her smile perfectly innocent “That I doubt” Anna muttered just loud enough to be heard …. McKenzie decided to look the other way “Let me put it this way” she smiled “Some Fellows needed a gentle nudge to speed up their Memory!”

“And?” Chris's melodious Alto Voice betrayed just the slightest Ounce of Impatience ….The Canadian was astute enough to take the Hint “

“Let me present you!” she paused for effect “Shao Ling!” The Face of an Asian Woman appeared on the large Screen “Lucy Liu!” Anna stated. And she was not wrong: The Woman on the Screen had a strong resemblance to the famous Actress.

The Thief was obviously very pleased with herself: “Shao Ling aka the Ghost owns an Art Gallery in Queens – she specialised in Japanese and Chinese Art. Her Reputation is very good. As it happens? Shao Ling had Business at every place at every time when the Bombings in Question happened … - and she ordered certain Items by an Arms Dealer I happen to know, which you need to build that kind of Bomb ….I had to break three Fingers of his left hand”

Anna shrugged “I do not believe in Coincidences. Sounds solid enough for me.”

Chris demurred “It sounds solid enough – but we need irrefutable Proof before we act.”

The Blonde turned to the Thief “You and me will pay the Lady a Visit tomorrow – you put her under Surveillance?”

“Actually, I did” the Thief smiled “As my Contacts told me, the Lady is a Creature of Habit. She jogs every Day. From 0400 PM to 0500 PM – like a Clockwork
.”

Chris's smile grew cold “Then we will wait for her tomorrow at 0500 PM – I guess, getting into her apartment will pose no Challenge for you?”

“It won´t” Sarah McKenzie smiled.

“That is settled then.” The Pianist concluded, “Tomorrow will be a busy day Ladies – I suggest we call it a day!”

“One Moment!” The Canadian smiled mischievously “I cannot convince any of you to unwind, vent some Steam?” The Black Lady looked at Chris, then at Anna, then at Kate – and at last at Merit “Anyone?”

Chris shook her head “I am just not in the Mood” A small smile curled her Lips “I know your Ways to unwind - intimately.”

Notice to the reader: If you want to know more about the Black Lady´s special Ways to unwind? Read here:

The Hunt for the Weinstein Collection: Chapter 106 by Imhotep-Ra on DeviantArt

One Thing is sure: Chris and Sarah had fun!


“No Chance” Anna seconded firmly. The Thief looked at Kate Beckett. The Detective shook her head “Forget it!” Finally, McKenzie´s black Eyes rested on Merit “Your Friends are really a bunch of Party Poopers. You won´t let me down, will you?” The Egyptian felt uncomfortable under the intense Scrutiny. She looked at Anna. The Russian smiled “Your Choice Merit! I can tell you; it will be quite the experience ….”

Merit looked at Sarah and back at Anna. The Canadian smiled “You heard what your Mistress said little one!”

The Egyptian felt uneasy: The Canadian´s Smile was – she searched for a Word in that foreign Language which was German – disturbing ….

“You knew what you were doing Anna, right?” Chris raised her Eyebrows. They were walking to their respective Guestrooms “I did not lie. It will be an enriching Experience for Merit. Consider it as Part of her Education.”

“Anna Alexandrovna Romanova, you are incorrigible!” Chris chided her best Friend mildly.

“That´s me! Sleep well!” Anna grinned.

“I will!” Chris smiled. She yawned “God Heavens I am tired!”

“Are you getting old?” Anna asked innocently. Chris ignored the Barb – just smiled.

She stepped into her Room. She felt calm and controlled.

“Crawford will regret this,” The Blonde told herself. Chris slipped her Sandals off and stepped into the Bathroom. The Blonde looked at the Face in the Mirror. She liked what she saw.

Chris undressed, did her Routine in the Bathroom, and pulled the green Nightie over her head. It reached barely midthigh. The Pianist had to smile; Aslan liked her wearing it. Barefoot she padded into her Room – the polished wooden Floor felt cool under her bare Soles.

Exhausted she laid down, pulled the Covers over her head – and fell asleep almost instantly.

Elizabeth Crawford did not know it yet. But Judgement Day was near.


Around the same Time: St. Mary´s:


Hayley was sleeping. Compared to the Morning she looked considerably better. Doctor Meyers even had risked the Prognosis that the Blonde was very probably out of the Woods – and if nothing happened during the Night? She would be transferred to General Ward tomorrow. A single Room – with all the Perks. Rachel had told her that.

Kirsty yawned but she was too wired up to sleep “I have brought you something to read!” The Heiress had smiled “You will like it!” The Briton opened the leather Bag, a Carl Friedrik Cognac Leather Palissy Weekend, she skimmed through its Contents. The Change of Clothing she ignored. At the Bottom, she found a leather-bound Volume, gilt-edged.

Something told Kirsty this Book had to be from Rachel´s personal Collection …

She opened the Book. The Briton breathed in deeply. This Book was old. She could not decipher the Latin Ciphers though. Hayley would have told her “This Book smells like old Books do!” Kirsty smiled and read the Title: Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant.

As a diligent Student of Military History, she knew the famous General of the Civil War, who had been President of the United States later. Grant had finally bested General Lee – who had been the Scourge of so many Commanders of the Union: McClellan, Burnside, and many more – and then Lincoln had chosen the red Head Grant and stuck to him – till Lee capitulated at Appomattox Court House.

Kirsty sat down and began to read: “My Family is American, and has been for Generations, in all its branches, direct and collateral ….”

The clear, precise, laconic Prose reeled her in …. Kirsty was not much of a Reader, but Sam Grant was different … what she knew about his Biography, his upbringing made her sympathize with the taciturn Victor of Vicksburg. Vicksburg fell the same Day; General Meade was victorious at Gettysburg.

Soon Kirsty forgot everything around her ….


Around the same time: Mystery Island:


Elizabeth Crawford paced the Floor in her Study …. So far, her Contacts had failed to locate Hayley King … an incoming Message raised her attention. She read the Message. And smiled. It was a cruel and hard smile.

Crawford had burned down any Bridges already – one more did not really matter. She took her Phone – and dialed a Number.

In New York …. A small Part of her felt sorry, for what she was about to do.

A very small Part.

Things had changed …

The Recipient took the Call:

“I have a Job for you!”

[slackywacky]

Wow, that was a massive story. Not only in size but also in events. Well done.

Just one other remark:

ABBA - Super Trouper (youtube.com)

If you meant that to be a link, it isn't.

[Caesar73]

Just one other remark:

ABBA - Super Trouper (youtube.com)

If you meant that to be a link, it isn't.

It should have been a Link indeed Copy and Paste did not work - I will correct that, one Link after another.

That Chapter is really a long one - I considered splitting it. It would have disrupted the flow though - so I did not.

[wolfman]

This was epic, both in scale and content. I am glsd you posted all in one and did not split it down. The flow would have been lost and this built like an i ferno fron a spark.

Chapeau

[Nainur]

Loved the read.

When I think "the usual ammount of passion and care to the detail" is to be found again, it is surely not meant as a negative. On the contrary. The continuing writing standards are putting me in awe.

[Caesar73]

Loved the read.

When I think "the usual ammount of passion and care to the detail" is to be found again, it is surely not meant as a negative. On the contrary. The continuing writing standards are putting me in awe.

Thank you my Friend for the Compliment! Chapter 18 will tell more about what Crawford has in Mind. Who will be quicker? The Contact Crawford has hired or Chris and her Friends?

The proverbial Race against Time ...

[Caesar73]

Chapter 18 may be up on Sunday evening - otherwise you have to wait a bit longer

[Caesar73]

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

Tying the Knot:


Chapter 18


From the Files of Art. Inc.


Judgement Day II





New York, The next day: St. Mary´s, Morning:

Chris strode purposefully along the Floors of St. Mary´s, her black Max Mara Wedge Sandals making almost no noise on the Corridor´s polished Floor. Merit had trouble keeping up with the Pianist. The young Egyptian could not help but admire the Pianist´s Athletic Figure, the Way she moved: Smoothly, elegantly, gracefully. Her Black Jumpsuit fitted perfectly “Tell me Merit, how was your Night?” The Blonde smiled mischievously. She was not turning back.

The young Noblewoman blushed – she was no Stranger when it came to the Sort of Games the Pianist and her Friends were playing. Such Games had been part of her Training as Lady-in-Waiting at Pharaoh´s Court. But what the Dark Lady did with her and to her had been quite intense “Anna told me; you have a talented Tongue!” Sarah McKenzie had grinned coyly. Merit had found the Master Thief intimidating.

The Egyptian could not reply, because of the large Ring Gag strapped tightly in her Mouth. She had been stripped down to her Underwear and a Pair of Nude Hose. The Hogtie had been tight – even for Merit´s Standards:

Only her Tummy rested on the Mattress. The Thief had tied her Toes together – all ten – and tied them back to Merit´s Elbows. For a practical Reason, the Thief had explained “You have beautiful Hair, but it is simply too short to braid it properly!”

Lazily the Thief smiled at her “Now show me how talented you are!” Her dark Voice had been husky with Desire. Merit had demonstrated how talented she was. Three Times actually. Each Orgasm had been more powerful than before “You are” the Thief panted heavily after the last one “Very talented!”

But that was only the Beginning: Sarah McKenzie had changed Merit´s Gag for three Pairs of used Panties after the young Egyptian was rewarded for her Performance with a Flute of Champagne “Chris, Kate, and Anna were gracious enough to offer a Pair each!” One Pair, Merit suspected Anna´s filled her left Cheek, Kate´s her right. McKenzie had stuffed Chris´ white fullback Panties in the Centre “We shall test the effectiveness of the Gag, shall we?” Sarah McKenzie chuckled – and pinched Merit´s Nipples. Obviously, she was pleased with Gag´s Effectiveness “We shall add a little something though” The “little Something” had been first a Panty Hood and as a final touch a Stocking Cap. Both used and ripe.

The Thief had taken next a riding Crop …. If Merit had known the Thief better the young Noblewoman would have known the Thief was an Expert in the Bastinado. Merit´s nyloned Soles had burned like Fire.

And the Tickling ….

Later, considerably later, they had made Love – after Sarah McKenzie had untied her … She had been gentle. Gentle and passionate.

“Here we are!” Chris's Voice broke Merit out of her Reverie “I wonder where you have just been!” The Pianist smiled coyly. Merit felt cornered “Nothing” she muttered “Sometimes nothing is everything” The Blonde grinned – and Merit felt emerald, green Eyes seeing right through her.

That Chris seemed to see and hear many things other People did not? The Egyptian was not used to that – yet. The Pianist´s knowing, yet warm, Smile told Merit Chris knew exactly what she was thinking – and that she was not judging her in any way.

And if the young Egyptian knew anything about Chris? The tall Blonde – which seemed to some People distant and remote – had a big heart.

The Blonde knocked at the Door in a certain Rhythm: Three quick Taps, three with a Pause between each Tap, and three quick Taps again “Enter” a Voice called. Chris and Merit stepped in: Kirsty was sitting to Hayley´s left.

The Blonde looked considerably better than the Day before. The IV-Line in her right Hand had been removed. Hayley was maybe better, maybe out of the Woods even – but she was still in pain. Chris sensed it. A small Smile curled her full lips: The Painkillers had to be good.

Neither Kirsty nor Hayley knew but the Pianist had had a Conversation with Dr. Meyers. She simply had to know. Hayley´s Recovery would take time. It had been a close Call. Very close. Had it not been for the Surgeon, and Rachel´s quick thinking to call him, the Blonde might not have made it. Internal Sutures needed time to heal.

Stopping the Bleeding had been difficult the Surgeon had told Chris.

Chris smiled at the Couple “Kirsty a Word if you please?” The Briton was on the Verge of speaking, but Hayley was quicker “You can tell her, and she will tell me later Chris. But she will tell me anyway. So, spare us time and tell us together!”

The Blonde smiled – but was serious.

The Pianist looked long at the Pair. Both Women looked back. Unabashed. Not avoiding the Blonde´s inquiring Gaze “Right” Chris nodded and decided: “Sarah and Kate managed to identify the Assassin. Now we need to find out who hired her.”

“We know that” Kirsty interjected impatiently “We cannot prove it -yet” the Pianist countered “That is why Sarah and I will pay the Lady a visit today” Hayley was fascinated by how cool and controlled the Pianist spoke. That was one of Chris´ Character Traits: She did not rage and scream. She stayed focused under any Circumstances.

Her Wife was different:

“I will come with you!” Kirsty fired hotly “You won´t – only over my dead Body you would” Chris countered cooly “Why? Tell me! I have any right to have a talk with that Bitch!” Kirsty felt Hayley´s left Hand touching her right one – but her Wife ignored her “Tell me why!” “Anna” It was only one Word, but Kirsty and Hayley understood the Pianist instantly – Kirsty had the good Grace to blush.

She broke Eye Contact.

Kirsty knew exactly what Chris meant: Eight Months ago, on their Quest for the Sun-Ray-of Amon-Ra Anna had been hit by a Bomb Blast. Chris had been hit too. They had believed Anna dead. That had thrown Chris totally off Balance. She had been in a catatonic State. Only Sarah McKenzie managed to break through the Wall the Pianist had erected around her.

They found out, they had a Mole in their Midst: Shana Al Amari, a high-ranking Egyptian Police Officer. Chris had wanted to confront her to make her pay for killing Anna. The Black Lady had refused the Pianist firmly. Knowing that Chris would shred Al Amari to Pieces – which would get them nothing.


Notice to the Reader:


In Chapter 69 of “The Hunt for the Lost Scrolls,” Sarah McKenzie manages to bring Chris back. Chris though is still off Balance and consumed by Grieve about Anna´s Death – in Chapter 71 Chris and her Friends capture the Mole in their Midst:

The Hunt for the Lost Scrolls: Chapter 69 by Imhotep-Ra on DeviantArt

The Hunt for the Lost Scrolls: Chapter 71 by Imhotep-Ra on DeviantArt

Grudgingly the Blonde had backed down.

Now, here in this Room, in a Hospital in New York, Kirsty understood Chris fully. Emotionally and rationally. And she admired Chris even more. If she would have been able to muster the self-control? She did not know.

She nodded “I understand.”

“I knew you would.” Chris looked long at Kirsty. She had spoken calmly and composed.

Hayley and Merit had followed the Exchange with rapt Attention.

One could have heard the proverbial Needle falling to the Floor. Chris was not ready yet “There is another thing Kirsty was on the Verge of Speaking; the Pianist raised her right hand “Listen” The Blonde fixated on her “You will go home now. You will rest. You will have a Shower” Chris smiled “You smell ripe” The Pianist grew serious again “I don´t want to see you here before 0900 AM tomorrow!”

Kirsty was about to interrupt Chris again – but the Pianist cut across her “Hayley needs you. Hayley needs you rested!” The Blonde looked Kirsty straight in the Eye – and Kirsty found it difficult to keep Eye Contact.

“Merit will take good care of Hayley. She will stay with her. She took care of Anna; she will take care of Hayley.”

“Will you Merit?” Chris asked gently “I will!” the dark-haired Egyptian returned sincerely “I will take care of Hayley as I took for Anna!”

For a long Moment Hayley was sure Kirsty would explode. To her surprise, her Wife did not “That is settled then!” She replied curtly.

The Pianist smiled at the Briton “Why don´t you come with me? I have another Appointment anyway!”

Kirsty packed her things and Minutes later the Door closed behind the blonde Woman and the Woman from Norfolk.

Merit smiled at Hayley “Shall I sing something for you?” The American shrugged “Why not?” “My Teachers at the Houses of Healing taught me Songs they believe have the Power to heal – I have sung them for Anna too – when she was in a comatose State.” The young Egyptian explained.

The Blonde was curious “They cannot hurt I guess” The Russian had told her Friends that she had recovered quickly after the Bombing.

Hayley watched as Merit unpacked an Instrument from her Belongings – it looked like some sort of Lyra? The Egyptian tuned the Instrument. As she stroked the Strings a sweet, delicate Sound filled the Room. Merit began to sing. Her Soprano´s clear sound struck a Chord with Hayley. As did the Words in this foreign Language.

Hayley closed her Eyes. It was as if she entered a foreign World: Pyramids, Palaces …. When she opened her Eyes again, she had no Idea how much time had passed. It was as if she was returning from a long Journey.

“How long did you sing?” Merit smiled “Time has no meaning my Teachers taught me” “Was it real what I saw?” Hayley inquired “It was – in a way” Merit smiled mysteriously “Shall I tell you an Egyptian Tale?”

“Why not?” Hayley grinned “Mother used to tell me the Brothers Grimm´s Tales1” The Egyptian smiled “Then listen! It was a long time ago …” She intoned “There was a King who had two sons ….”



0500 PM Shao Ling´s Penthouse:


Anna had not been wrong: Shao Ling had a remarkable resemblance to the Actress Lucy Liu – only that she was more athletic and taller, 175 Centimetres in her stockinged Feet to be exact. Also, the Dark Ladies' Assessment of the Art Dealer being a Creature of Habit had been spot on. This Day even more so:

The Japanese, possessing American Citizenship, was in a bad mood. Very bad. Why was that? She had failed to complete her latest Assignment: Hayley King had somehow survived the Bomb Blast, and her Client had been anything but pleased.

Shao Ling did not know what hurt her more: Her hurt professional Pride, or the Loss of half of the Payment. As usual: The Client had paid the first Half of the agreed Fee in Advance. The second Half after the Job had been done.

So, the Art Dealer, an Expert in Japanese and Chinese Blades, had done several extra miles today. She was covered in Sweat – Shao Ling felt slightly better. The dark-haired Woman typed in the complex entry Code and entered her large Apartment on the sixth Floor in a modern Apartment Complex not far from Central Park.

She slipped off her pink fashionable running Shoes and tapped on stockinged Feet down the long Floor, which led to the central Room: From there she had an unobstructed View of Central Park. To the left and the right, Doors opened. The Walls were decorated with Pieces from her personal Collection: Swords, Paintings, and Lithographs.

Her wet feet left Traces on the polished wooden Floor. Something she studiously avoided under normal circumstances.

Shao Ling stepped into the spacious living Room and froze: On the large black leather Couch dominating the Room sat a Woman. She was tall and Blonde. She wore a deep green Power Suit a white Blouse, and high-heeled open-toed Platform Heels.

Two things got Art-Dealers Attention: The bright emerald, green Eyes and the Katana, she held in her right Hand. The Blade rested on her Lap.

The Japanese was one of the leading Experts in this Field for a Reason: This Blade was ancient and immensely valuable. The Blonde seemed amused by her Consternation “You are right” she explained – to Shao-Lings Surprise in perfect Japanese without an Accent “This Blade was forged by Senga Murasama. My Sensei presented me with it – since he had no Heir.”

“Who are you? And how did you get in here?” The Art Dealer had recovered somewhat” The Blonde´s smile grew cold “What I am to you depends entirely on you. As to how we get in there?”

“That would be me!” A cold Voice spoke behind Shao Ling's Back “Turn around slowly” the Voice spoke, “I am a bit twitchy!” Slowly the Japanese turned. She recognized the Woman “You!” she hissed “Me” a Smile curled Sarah McKenzie´s Lips.

“It has been a while!” “It could not be long enough for me!” Shao Ling hurled at the Thief. The Dark Lady chuckled “The Detonator gave you away you know!” “What do you want?” “That is quite simple!” The Blonde spoke English now, cool and controlled. Perfect British English, like an Absolvent of Eton or another Elite College, would speak.

Slowly Shao Ling turned around again – to face her Adversary “We want proof of who hired you to kill Hayley King. Sarah told me, you insist on taking Photos with your Clients. You hand the Evidence over that Elizabeth Crawford hired you? We are out of your Hair ….”

“In Hell!” Shao Ling spat. The Blonde smiled but it was a hard cold Smile “I feared you might react that Way!” “I told you so” The Thief retorted nonchalantly “Shao has a stubborn Streak!”

Chris turned to Shao Ling “Have it your Way then!”

The Art-Dealer felt two sharp Pricks in the Neck. Blackness engulfed her. That she crashed to the Floor? She did not feel anymore.

Chris stood and looked down at the unconscious Assassin. Her Expression cold and hard “Why do they always choose the hard Way?” She shook her Head “I never get that!” The Thief grinned “At Times you are a hopeless Idealist! And it's more fun anyway! I haven´t persuaded anybody in a while!” The Pianist looked at her Watch “You have one Hour!”

“That will suffice!” The Canadian´s smile was outright diabolic. Chris went to the large metallic Kitchen Table. On it: Shao Ling´s large iBook. The Pianist sat down and pulled out a USB-Stick out of her Blazer. Chris had downloaded a Program Sybil had sent her.

The Blonde inserted the USB-Stick in one Slot. She started the iBook and took her Smartphone. Chris dialed “Sybil it´s me! I loaded the Program!” The Pianist listened – her nimble Fingers flew about the Keyboard.

What Sarah McKenzie did to and with Shao Ling, Chris completely ignored.

Sometimes her Training was a Blessing.


Later:


Shao Ling groaned … “Where am I?” Only slowly she came to her Senses. She looked up – and stared into the dark Eyes of the Black Lady. An ominous Smile curled her Lips “Awake Bitch?” Her Eyes really black Coals now “We will have much fun together!” The Thief gave her the Once Over “I hope you enjoy your Predicament!”

The Japanese wanted to shout something at her Enemy, but nothing came out: Only now she realized her Predicament: The Art-Dealer had been gagged with a very large Harness-Ball-Gag. Its leather Straps cut deep into her Skin.

She was naked except for her Panties: She sat on one of her sturdy wooden Chairs with a High Back. Her Arms had been welded together behind the sturdy High Back at Wrists and Elbows: Below and above the Back.

A figure-eight Breast Harness accentuated her full and firm Breasts. Other rope girdles pressed her in the Chair. Her Ankles had been tied to the Chair´s back legs. Which made her bare soles easily accessible ….

The Crotchrope was very tight. It cut her in two almost. She recognized Pressure against her Crotch: A large Hitachi Wand had been tight against her left Thigh – its Head pressed against her Crotch.

“Last Chance!” The Thief smiled down at her Prey. The Black Lady had removed her Blazer and her Jacket. In her right Hand, she held a riding Crop “You will talk?” Shao Ling stared back, defiantly – and gagged and talked agitatedly back.

Sarah McKenzie sighed:

“Some People never learn! And no, I won´t fuck myself!” The Canadian smiled coyly “Fucking you though … would be a pleasure …”

She grinned “We can discuss that as soon as you have talked! If I remember correctly your Feet are very sensitive ….”

The Thief swung wide …


Roughly 90 Minutes later:



The Master Thief pulled the Door of Shao Ling's Apartment shut “So we have now all the Evidence we need?” Chris smiled “We do, Sybil worked her Magic – you persuaded our Friend! We have all we need!”

The Pianist checked her Watch “I have another appointment in 30 Minutes with a common Friend!” The Thief smiled “You don´t want me to accompany you?” The Blonde chuckled “I am a big Girl! You know me!”

“That´s why I ask” the Canadian added dryly “You have the unhealthy Habit to leap without looking!”

Chris smiled “Sensei Nakamura says the same”

“He has a Point, doesn´t he?” The Thief sounded serious – but a small Twinkle in her left Eye betrayed her.

The Pianist paused “I am grateful to have you at my side Sarah!”

She hesitated – and turned sharply on her Heels. She looked back:

“I mean it!”

Before the Master Thief could respond, the Blonde strode away with long purposeful Strides. Tall. Erect.

Sarah McKenzie smiled “You are really one of a Kind Christine Auguste Wilhelmine von der Marwitz! You really are!”

The Thief turned the other Way.

She had another Job to do.


St. Mary´s around the same Time:




Dr. Abraham van Helsing walked down the Floor which led to Hayley King´s Suite. The Physician approached the Officer keeping guard before the Door “I have to consult with Mrs King!” Van Helsing smiled “Dr. Meyers sent me!”

Clarke Middlethorpe looked up “Van Helsing the Name?” He consulted his Tablet “You can enter!” Middlethorpe noticed that the Surgeon limped slightly as he closed the Door behind him. His left leg seemed a tad shorter than his right. He took his Smartphone and continued the Game he had been playing.

Hayley and Merit turned as van Helsing entered. The Blonde had just laughed her bell-like laugh “Dr. van Helsing!” she beamed at him. She liked Dr. Meyer´s Assistant Surgeon “I thought Dr. Meyers would check in later!” “He will” Doctor van Helsing smiled “He ordered me to give you an Injection which will aid your recovery!”

The Physician pulled a Syringe out of his green lab coat. Hayley looked him up and down. She shot Merit a sideways Glance – had van Helsing limped the other Day? “What is this Injection for?” the Blonde inquired smiling “It is necessary to avoid Blood Clots.” The Physician explained patiently “Don‘t take this personally” Hayley smiled still her dazzling smile “But I am a bit squeamish with Syringes – and Doctor Meyers does apply them so well!”

“I must insist Mrs. King!” Van Helsing still smiled but a tad tense now “ With two quick Steps he closed the Distance “Elizabeth Crawford sends her best Mrs. King!” He raised the Syringe like a dagger – his smile now no longer friendly, but cold and hard “You will not feel much Pain, I assure you!”

From wide Eyes Hayley stared up at him – but she smiled! “Why does she smile?” Van Helsing wondered. A shot rang out. His Head dissolved into a Mist of Blood, Brain, and organic Matter. His lifeless Body crashed to the Floor.

The Syringe clattered on the Linoleum.

Behind him stood Merit. Her Glock firmly in both Hands. Her Eyes wide. One Moment she held the Gun steady, the next she shook and quivered violently. The young Egyptian looked at the lifeless Body on the Ground and at Hayley:

Hayley´s Covers, her face, and her Hair were covered by Blood and Brains.

Absentmindedly the Blonde noticed the Tears forming in Merit´s Eyes.

To Hayley, this Moment felt like an Eternity.

The Door was ripped open Officer Middlethorpe stormed in “What has happened here?”

“I guess, someone tried to murder me!” Hayley King smiled dryly.

The sharp Clicks of High Heels hammered the Floor outside. Anna Romanova charged in. Her Gun drawn. Anna took in the Scene: Hayley looking at her, the headless Body on the Floor, the Officer staring at the Body on the Floor and at Anna. The Russian ignored him. Her Gaze was fixed on Merit who stood still there. Her Gun aimed at the Body on the Floor. The Gun quivered. She could barely hold it steady:

“He wanted to kill Hayley! I had to shoot him, Mistress! I simply had to!”

“Merit!” Anna spoke softly, recognizing the young Egyptian was in shock. Slowly the slender young dark-haired Woman looked up, her Gaze slowly fixing on the Russian “I shot him” she said gently “He wanted to kill Hayley! I had to do it!”

A wave of Warmth filled Anna´s heart “Come to me Merit! You did the right thing! Come!” The Russian put her own Gun away “Come Little One!” With an eerily loud clatter, Merit´s Gun dropped to the Floor.

Merit threw herself in Anna´s Arms and wept, the Russian felt the Quivering of Merit´s Body. She stroked her Back gently “You did the right thing Merit. You saved a life! You saved Hayley´s Life! You get me?” Anna continued to strike Merit´s Back “You, Lady Merit of the most ancient and noble House of Senemut, you saved Hayley´s Life!”

Officer Middlethorpe coughed “Who are you?”

Anna stared him down.

“What are you Idiot still doing here!” Anna demanded icily, “Find your Superior, someone who clears up this Mess and” she paused “someone competent!” The Police Officer hesitated “But …” “F*ck but!” Anna raised her Voice only barely “Inform the Commissioner! I am very curious what he will say! You almost got his Daughter killed! Get off! Now!”

The Officer looked at the Body on the Floor, at Hayley then at the furious Russian “Need another Invitation?” Anna quipped.

Middlethorpe stormed out of the Room as if the Hounds of Hell were on his Heels.

Anna stared after him “Idiot!” she huffed.

Merit still sobbed, but she calmed down. Anna felt it. The Violinist let her go “You are, okay?” The Egyptian pulled herself together “I am Anna!” Her Underlip quivered though. The Russian looked long at her Lady in Waiting – “You don´t have to play the tough one with me Merit! We all are there for you! Killing someone is not easy – you will come to me when you need me right?” Merit nodded “I will!”

Anna turned to Hayley who had followed the Exchange – with slight amusement the Russian noticed:

“Hayley tell me, what happened here!” Anna demanded Eyes blazing, tall, and composed.

Hayley smiled. Covered in blood and brains. But she smiled “Anna Alexandrovna Romanova? You are a Force of Nature!”

“I know!” Anna smiled “

And now tell me what happened!”


Saint Patrick´s Church: One Hour before:




The Honourable Monsignore Don Pietro Cavalli loved this Hour of the Day. The Church was entirely silent. Every Friday he sat here. At this Hour. In the Confessional Booth. He had found out busy New Yorkers came often to confess – after Work, People you would not expect in a Church:

The Lawyer with ties to the Mafia, the Investment Banker, who had made a fortune by screwing over a Client, the tough Businesswoman who had just cheated on her Husband, and the corrupt Police Officer who had looked the other Way – and taken the Bribe.

But Experience taught him? The human Soul was a complex and fragile Thing. And as a good Friend of him had quoted him? The Lord works in mysterious Ways. Said Friend had called him the other Day, asked him to meet him in an Irish Pub – not far from Saint Patrick. The Monsignore was a frequent Guest there. He liked having a good Pint of Ale and listening to the Conversations around him. One could learn much if one listened attentively.

His Friend had met him for another Reason though. His only Child, his Daughter had barely survived a Bomb Blast – and Seamus King had felt the need to talk to a Friend. Don Pietro had listened – he was a good Listener. And at Times? Just listening was better than talking.

The Priest had to smile. The Wedding of Hayley King and Kirsty Garret? He had enjoyed it very much. Very keenly he remembered one Conversation he had with the blonde Pianist, Christine von der Marwitz:

It had been the Musicians´ final Rehearsal before the Wedding:

It was after they finished the Rehearsal when Don Cavalli approached Chris “That was marvellous” he smiled warmly “When I hear you play I like to think Music is really a Gift of God the Almighty” Chris smiled, and her tone was even “Forgive me Don Cavalli but since the Death of my Parents in a senseless Car Crash at the Amalfi Coast I do not believe anymore – at least not in the Christian God”.

To her surprise, the Priest replied evenly “In what do you believe then?” And Chris felt no judgment in his Words, just intellectual curiosity “I am a believer of the Eastern Philosophies” she added “Zen, Bushido” Don Cavalli nodded “I am looking forward to continuing our Conversation – but the Choir has just arrived” he smiled […]

They did not have that Conversation – but the Don was patient. The Pianist was a fascinating Person that was sure. The Monsignore remembered the Wedding, how Christine von der Marwitz had ensnared her Audience with her Play, or the Sword Dance afterwards. How she had waltzed with the dark-haired Desert Warrior. Exhilarated. Happy.

Yes, what the Blonde believed in, really believed in – he liked to know.

In his Experience, People like von der Marwitz did not believe in Christ but lived by the Words of the Gospel more than many of his Brethren who could quote the Scripture verbatim – but failed to live up to the Teachings of the Lord by their Actions

A Sound disturbed the Silence.

The massive oaken Church Door was pushed open – and fell shut. Heels clicked on the polished marble Floor. In a steady Rhythm. Purposefully. They came nearer. The other Door of the Confessional Booth, that for the Sinner opened.

Don Pietro smelled a Perfume – rich and heavy.

The Woman knelt.

“Father! I have to make a Confession!” The melodious Alto Voice was calm – but the Priest was sure to detect a Smile in that intriguing Voice “Then tell me my Daughter, what is on your Conscience”

The Woman chuckled “My Conscience is clean Father – I did what had to do” Now the Monsignore was sure, the Woman smiled “We never had that Conversation – about my Beliefs – but since I am in the Area, we could have it now!”

Don Pietro smiled “Why don´t we go a few steps, and you confess to me over a good Pint at the “Green Goblin”?”

“I would be delighted Don Pietro!” Christine von der Marwitz smiled “You are buying.”


Mystery Island later, unknown Time:




It was always risky to hire People for a job one did not know. But she had no Choice. She had to act. Act quickly. And the hasty stroke often failed. That was why she planned carefully every step. Took care of every Detail. She did that. She did that when no Emotions were in play. With Hayley King, it had been different from the Start.

The curvaceous Blonde had hit a Chord. And Elizabeth Crawford could not resist that Temptation. Not that she did tell herself otherwise. She had not wanted only to possess Hayley King. She had wanted her to love her. To brainwash the Blonde would have been simple. And Dr. Schmitt would have succeeded. But that would have destroyed the Hayley King she loved.

She did not want a brainwashed Hayley King. She wanted the true Hayley King to love her. But Hayley King loved Kirsty Garrett and married her even. And – Elizabeth had to admit – she had made that possible. That unholy Love.

“If I had not punished Garrett for, the betrayal? That Love would have never come to pass!” As a rule, Crawford pushed those Thoughts aside – resolutely. At a certain point – she did not know when exactly -Love had turned into Hate. If she could not possess Hayley King? No one else should. Especially not Kirsty Garrett. That Traitor.

Her Plans had failed though: First the spoiled Attack on the Wedding? Second the Bombing? Her last Hope now: The hastily conceived Assassination Attempt.

If the Contract Killer, she had hired on short Notice had failed she did not know. She had not received a Confirmation so far.

Crawford shook her Head.

Harper had warned her about an impending Retaliatory Strike. She had ignored the Warning. Had told Harper that Christine von der Marwitz was an overrated Pianist, with nice Boobs. But deep in her Heart Elizabeth Crawford knew the Truth.

Christine von der Marwitz was anything else than just an overrated Pianist ….

And now she would come for her. That Crawford knew: Von der Marwitz would not allow her to get another Strike at Hayley King – if the hired Help failed.

Crawford knew this in her Heart: Von der Marwitz was no overrated Pianist. She would not source out the Task. The Blonde would come for her straight like a Bullet.

Absentmindedly Crawford touched her split Ear. The Cut was clean. Back then she had thought the Blonde would kill her. But in the last, the very last split Second the Pianist had changed her Aim.

Notice to the Reader:

Elizabeth Crawford refers to this Incident:

The Mystery of Lynnewood Hall: Chapter 3 by Imhotep-Ra on DeviantArt


The Green Goblin:


“He said what?” Chris laughed loud and clear “Pietro you are pulling my leg!” The Priest smiled “I swear I am telling the Truth as a Member of the Societas Jesu.” Don Pietro just had told the Blonde a Story about a high-ranking Member of the Curia in Rome.

A Member of Opus Dei as well.

Opus Dei - Wikipedia

Said Cleric had been caught in flagrante delicto: A Investigative Journalist had been tipped off that he booked one of Rome´s high-prized Dominas regularly. The Catch? Said Priest had condemned the moral depravity of modern Western Societies in the strongest Terms publicly ….

Over a Pint Chris and Pietro – they were on a first-Name Basis now – had first discussed the finer Points of Eastern Philosophy. The Pianist had told him the Story of her Upbringing in Japan and the Death of her Parents.

Over the second Pint Pietro had told Chris how he got to know the Commissioner – and the Years he had spent in Rome as Student at the Papal University. The Pianist found the Monsignore open-minded and a brilliant Conversationalist.

Suddenly Chris´ Phone – it lay on the Table before her – signalled an incoming Call. The Pianist looked at the Display and frowned “I have to take this Pietro!” Don Pietro watched as the Blonde took the Call and listened. Her Face grew hard “She is alright?” she questioned “And Merit?” The Blonde listened “You informed Kirsty?” She nodded curtly “We will be there in” The pianist looked at her Watch “30 Minutes!”

Chris ended the Call.

“Pietro, we have to go. You come with me! I tell you on the Way!”

Don Pietro Cavalli knew the World. He had surmised something important had come up. He stood, called the Bar Man “On my Tab Devlin!” “All right Father!” the red-headed, burly Man grinned.

The Monsignore followed Chris, who was already on her Way out of the Door. They stepped on the Tarmac and the Blonde hailed a Cab “St. Mary´s Hospital!” she told the Driver. Polite, but curtly. Don Pietro noticed the Change: Chris's Face was cold and hard now.

All Joviality was gone from one Moment to the next. He did not bother to ask the Pianist about the Call. He knew she would not talk here before the Driver – but he did the Math quickly. Pietro knew that Hayley was being treated in St. Mary´s. He knew who Merit was. Chris stared ahead. Her grim Expression would have made many hardened Criminals run.

20 Minutes later they hurried along the Floor to Hayley´s Suite. They had to pass three Security Checks …. As they strode along Chris spoke for the first Time “Pietro, I might need you as a Counsellor: Someone hired a Contract Killer to kill Hayley. Merit shot him. This is the first Time she killed a Man.” The Priest nodded sincerely “I understand” Nothing more had to be said.

Hayley´s Suite was crowded with People. Someone had been astute enough to relocate her to another Room. Kate was there, Anna, Kirsty, Rachel and Sarah. Anna was talking in soft Tones to Merit. As Chris and Pietro entered the Room fell silent. Hayley smiled at Chris – she seemed remarkably composed the Blonde thought.

“Hayley, how are you?” She went to the Blonde and kissed her on the Forehead. And once more the American was amazed by the Intensity of those green Eyes.

Kirsty watched as Chris straightened and stood tall.

Chris went out on the Floor “I have to make a Call!”

The others looked after her “Any Idea who she is calling?” Kirsty ventured “My bet is on Crawford!” Anna smiled coldly.


Mystery Island around the same Time




Elizabeth Crawford was patient and controlled. Those were some of the Traits that led her to the point where she was: The leader of a highly successful criminal enterprise. Now she paced the Floor of her private Study. She had kicked off her stylish black Ferragamo Heels. Her nyloned Soles made no Noise on the lush Carpet.

He should have called already. Suddenly her Phone rang. She looked at the Display: Unknown Caller. Crawford took the Call, she snapped: “Yes! Is it done? Why did you not call sooner?”

The Caller on the other Hand chuckled – and the Master Criminal froze: It was a Woman´s laugh. The cold melodious Chuckle of a Woman. She knew who was speaking …. But how? “The second-rate Assassin you hired failed.” The Voice continued cooly and controlled “Merit shot him. We will see each other soon Lizzie – and my Strokes never go fail!”

The Caller hung up.

In Disbelief Elizabeth Crawford starred at the Display of her Phone. She felt an Emotion she had very rarely felt: Fear. Primordial Fear

She knew the Pianist made no idle Threads “This is on your head” a small Voice whispered, “You made that personal.”

Crawford knew she would not get any further Chance to get back at Hayley: After the second botched Attempt Security would be beefed up massively.

That was for sure.

And she knew one thing for Sure:

The Angel of Vengance would come for her.

Crawford had learned the Pianist had been called that way ....

[algebrauk]

Hell hath no fury like a pianist with emerald green eyes….

Fantastic chapter, Merit “coming of age” as part of Art Inc - a session with Sarah and now saving Hayley by taking a life.

The details and storytelling continue to be next level.

[Caesar73]

Fantastic chapter, Merit “coming of age” as part of Art Inc - a session with Sarah and now saving Hayley by taking a life.

"Coming of Age" is a very fitting Phrase to describe Merit´s development. I like writing her, her Character has so much Potential. Merit will never turn into a Warrior like Chris, Anna or Sarah - but she fights for the Family she is now Part off. How it will affect her, that she had to take a life to save Hayley remains to be seen. The next Chapter will shed some light on this.

Chris took Don Pietro with her to the Hospital for a Reason: She is very well aware, what a Shock this must have been for the young Egyptian. The Jesuit will be able to help Merit to deal with that traumatic Experience.

Important too? Merit is sourrounded by Friends.

[Caesar73]

Chapter 19 will be due at Monday at the latest. Probably two more Chapters will follow, then the Knot is finally tied

[Caesar73]

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

Tying the Knot:


Chapter 19


From the Files of Art. Inc.


Judgement Day III




Sarah McKenzie´s Penthouse, the next Morning:

The Honourable Lady Merit, Lady-in-Waiting of Her Grace Grand Duchesse Anna Alexandrovna Romanova, stood before the large Mirror in her Room. She had applied little Make-Up – just enough to cover the dark Shadows under her Eyes. The young Egyptian did not really pay Attention to her Mirror Image today.

Today was not the Day.

She had not slept well that night.

The Egyptian looked at the Mirror. Watched her Mirror Image. She was not sure what she saw. Focus, she told herself. Merit had chosen a black Turtleneck and a black Pencil Skirt. The Pantyhose was black too. The purple-red Nail Polish formed a fine Contrast to her black Attire.

She looked down at her hosed Toes and back in the Mirror. What she saw, what she really saw were Flashes, Fragments of Pictures, and Sounds of what had transpired yesterday in Hayley´s Suite.

It was like viewing Sequences of a Movie – only she had played a Part in that Movie …

The Moment the fake Doctor van Helsing had entered, Merit had told the Blonde an amusing Story. The real Doctor van Helsing had been found dead in an unused Room of the Clinic – with a broken Neck later.

The Contract Killer had used a Latex Mask – so everybody would think he was the real Doctor van Helsing. And his Cover would have worked had it not been for the slight Limp, which had raised Hayley´s Suspicion …

Merit did not know what was wrong, but she acted out of pure Instinct. Regular Training on a Shooting Range was mandatory in the Von-der-Marwitz-Romanova-Household. And Anna was a demanding Teacher, Chris gave Merit Lessons in Hand-to-Hand-Combat. The Pianist had decided to begin the Egyptian´s Lessons with Krav Maga.

With the Gun, Merit had reached a certain Proficiency – but she had not expected to need these Skills here in New York …. That she had taken a human Life – even in Self-Defence she had to struggle with still. In the Clinic Don Pietro had taken her aside in a Room used by Doctors for Consultations.

He had been gentle and caring “Tell me what happened my Child” he had said. Merit had talked, haltingly at first, then more fluently. The Priest had listened intently “I killed a Man Father!” she had exclaimed in Exasperation, I sinned! It is against the Laws of the Gods – mine and the Christian God!”

“Yes, my Daughter!” Don Pietro replied in his deep resounding Baritone “You took a Life. But you saved one as well: You saved Hayley´s Life.” They had talked long – and the Priest had offered Merit that she could talk to him any Time. Mostly Don Cavalli had listened – and he was a good Listener.

A knock at the Door interrupted her Musings “Merit?” It was Anna “Are you ready?” “Yes, Mistress! Coming!” Quickly she stepped into the shiny Black Louboutin Platform Heels – they had been a Present by Anna. And Merit had trained walking in those Heels, till she had walked almost as gracefully as her Mistress or Chris.

There had been one Lesson: Merit had dressed as Today. Anna had led her to the Middle of the Villa´s Music Room. Her Mistress had tied her up: Wrists and Elbows tied with white Ropes, a breast Harness. Her Legs at Ankles, Midcalf below and above the Knees. A three-inch Harness-Ball-Gag ensured Silence. On Top of her Head Anna had placed a heavy Book.

Merit´s Task: To stand still and keeping the Book on her Head, while Anna rehearsed … and the Russian had rehearsed long. But Merit was committed to her Mistress. So, she had done her best. Even if her feet ached like hell after 30 Minutes.

Anna had rewarded her, with a thorough foot massage. The Egyptian had been tied though: Mistress had tied her Wrists to the Bed Posts – and her Ankles together to the Footboard. The Russian had used silken Scarves – except for her big Toes.

Anna had magical Fingers … with ease, they found every sore spot on her nyloned Soles ….


The Present:


The young Egyptian opened the Door. Anna looked intently at her “You are all right Merit?” “Yes, Mistress! I am!” Her Lady in Waiting reassured the Russian – but the Reply had come a little too quick ….

Anna let it go – she had an Idea of what this meant for Merit. She would not pressure her. She knew when she had killed the first time …. It had been in Saint Petersburg. She had clubbed with some Friends, on a cold December Night. It happened when she had stumbled home on her High Heels. Alone. In a small Galley. The Thug had believed, she would be easy Prey. He was wrong …

Anna had lost her Heels in the Fight; she had slashed the Cut-Throat´s Gurgle, his Blood had sprayed hotly in her Face. She had vomited on his Remains. Till only yellow bile was left. Anna had scrambled to her feet and recovered her Shoes – and staggered home. The Violinist had no Idea how long she needed. Curiously enough her Mother had said nothing in the Days to come ….

Anna was concerned about Merit. This Experience was something entirely new for the Egyptian. Like so many things in this new World, she had chosen to be Part of. Anna vowed they would be there for Merit. That Innocence, that Kindness was a Treasure. And the Russian was resolved to preserve Merit´s Innocence. Her Way to look at the World. Not as it was, but as it should be.

Her Lady-in-Waiting followed Anna to the large Conference Room. At the large Table, Sarah and Kate already waited – Chris was missing “Where is our revered Leader?” the Violinist grinned “I have no Idea!” the Master-Thief sounded sincere enough

“Any Idea why Chris called in a Conference with the whole Team?” Kate shrugged “She was rather mysterious” Anna nodded “I guess, we will have to wait then. She can be pretty tight-lipped at Times!”

Not that the Violinist had not tried her luck then:

“No Anna, you will learn soon enough” The Pianist had told her best Friend with a smile. She had given nothing away.

Anna and Merit took their Places at the Table. The very large Screen at the Eastern Wall was still black. At the Head of the Table at its western End, Chris would be sitting. Anna was really curious: A Conference Call with all Members of the Family did not happen every Day, but Chris had insisted.

Sarah McKenzie though had a shrewd guess: Chris had ordered her to send the recovered Material to Sophie: Sophie´s Task? Evaluating the Evidence against Elizabeth Crawford … there had to be a Reason for that.

The Clicks of High Heels on the Floor interrupted her Musings. Chris entered the Conference Room and pulled the massive Door shut behind her. It closed with a firm click. The Atmosphere in the Room changed instantly.

The Blonde´s commanding Presence manifested itself.

Anna eyed her best Friend: She had chosen formal Wear, as all of them had. The Blonde had insisted on it.

The Violinist scrutinized her Friend. Their Bond had been deep since they met in Vienna first. The Challenges they had faced had made this bond even stronger.

The Pianist had dressed immaculately:

A severely cut black Power Suit. A white Blouse and high black Peep Toe Platform Pumps. In her right Hand, she held the Katana of Sengo Murasama. The Blonde went to the Head of the Table. Gently she laid the sheathed Sword squarely on the polished Wood before her.

Chris looked from one to the other. Her gaze rested on Merit a bit longer. Her severe Features grew soft “You are well Merit?” The Egyptian felt touched by the Gesture “I am Chris, thank you” she replied softly.

Chris smiled encouragingly “All will be well Lady Merit. It is just a question of Time. We are all there for you. You know that. All that you have to do is ask, right? “I will!” Merit nodded and her Heart felt lighter.

The Pianist grew serious again, her face serene. As she spoke, her Tone was official “Dear Friends! We have come together to discuss a serious Matter.

Chris felt all Eyes resting on her. She stood straight.

“Justine! Are all the other Ladies present and acquainted for?”

“Yes, Lady von der Marwitz they are!” The Artificial Intelligence replied:

Several Segments plopped off on the Screen: Hamburg, Geneva, London and New York:

Sophie waved a Hi as did Ragna from Hamburg! Ekaterina and Natasha joined in from Geneva and Kirsty and Hayley from St. Mary´s. Evie chimed in from London.

Chris nodded gravely “We are in Session now”

The Blonde looked at the Persons at the Table and at the Screen. With a smooth elegant Movement, she unsheathed the Katana. The polished Blade shimmered as Chris laid it squarely on the Table.

“Sophie reviewed the Evidence we obtained since the Attack on Hayley. Would this Evidence hold up in Court Sophie?”

All looked at the dark-haired Lawyer with the cat-like green Eyes “It would suffice in any Court!” The former Attorney of State nodded calmly “The Evidence is incontrovertible. Without any Doubt, Elizabeth Crawford did order “The Ghost” to kill Hayley,”

Sophie spoke in the same Manner she had spoken in Court, presenting a Case: One Piece of Evidence after the other plopped up on the Screen.

Merit was impressed this Procedure was new to her. She had witnessed a few Trials at Pharaoh´s Court. There were Similarities but Differences too.

Sophie finished her Presentation with her Recommendation:

“In my professional Opinion we have two Choices:

First: We can hand over the collected Evidence to the Authorities. Crawford will end up behind bars.

Second: We take Matters into our own Hands and terminate Crawford.”

Silence greeted these Words. Sophie had spoken entirely calmly, without Emotion.

“Thank you!” Chris took over “We have to make a decision.” The Blonde looked from one to the other “Opinions?”

Who would speak first? Whoever it would be? Her Opinion would set a precedence.

It was Sophie who voiced her Thoughts first:

“If you had asked me this Question before the Hunt for the Weinstein Collection? I would have opted for Prison. What I experienced since then changed my Perspective. I spare you the legal fine print.”

The Lawyer smiled – and not for the first Time Chris noticed how much Sophie had grown. The Pianist had seen much Potential in the District Attorney -how much she had not foreseen. Sophie continued: “It comes down to this: In the End, Elizabeth Crawford will be convicted. But that can take Years.”

“On the High Seas and before the Court, one´s fate is in God's Hands” Anna quipped.

“Some way to put it!” Sophie smiled “What matters more than Time is this: Should Hayley and Kirsty look over their Shoulders for Years? Crawford has demonstrated that she can orchestrate another Attempt on Hayley even from behind Prison Bars. That is intolerable. I vote for the Death Sentence.”

Chris nodded sincerely “Thank you, Sophie!” The Pianist turned to her Companions at the Table and to those on the Screen “Any other Opinions?” “She sounds so calm” Anna looked at her best Friend.

She had the Feeling this was like some sort of religious Ceremony to Chris.

Sarah McKenzie minced no Words “It is simple: End that Bitch!” “I agree” Natasha Bolkonskaya seconded “As long as Crawford lives Kirsty and Hailey are in Danger.”

That Evie spoke surprised Chris. Along with Sophie, the Egyptologist had made a steep learning Curve. The Pianist remembered only too well the Moments they had rescued Sophie and Evie out of Anck-Sun-Amun´s Clutches:

The Hunt for the lost Scrolls: Chapter 23 by Imhotep-Ra on DeviantArt
https://www.deviantart.com/imhotep-ra/a ... -949838628

Sophie and Evie had gone through Hell. Especially Sophie:

The Hunt for the lost Scrolls: Chapter 21 by Imhotep-Ra on DeviantArt
https://www.deviantart.com/imhotep-ra/a ... -948266815


“Elizabeth Crawford has violated the sacred Balance of Maat.” The Egyptologist said simply “According to the Laws of the Gods her Life is forfeit. Her Soul shall be devoured by Ammit.”

To Everybody´s Surprise Merit voiced her Thoughts next “Evie cited the Laws of the Gods correct. The Balance of Maat needs to be restored.” She had spoken calmly. Anna pressed her left Hand gently.

“Thank you,” Chris said calmly “Any more Statements?” She looked from one to the other – then at the Screen “Hayley and Kirsty. This concerns you the most – so you shall have the final Say!”

The American and the Briton looked at each other. Hayley was still pale and looked fragile in the large Hospital Bed. But there was a steely resolve “I hate the Thought of looking about my Shoulder for the Rest of my Days” The Blonde looked at Kirsty.

They had discussed this Matter beforehand Chris concluded. Kirsty looked straight at them “Had it not been for Merit? Hayley would be dead. We say: End Lizzie.”

Anna shot a glance at Merit: Her Underlip quivered “I did what I had to do!” Only a slight Quiver of her Voice was palpable “Everything is fine” the Russian said gently “You were incredibly brave.”

Chris watched from the Head of the Table “We will now proceed with a formal Vote Sisters!”

Chris unsheathed the shimmering Blade squarely before her on the gleaming Surface of the Table. Sophie could see that the Pianist pulled herself together and stood tall. Her Face betrayed nothing. Cool and composed she stood at the Table´s Head.

Her emerald, green Eyes clear and hard:

“All in Favour of Conviction!” she intoned in a majestic Tone.

Chris counted the Votes “The Vote is unanimous then!” She turned the Blade so that its Tip pointed at the Screen.

“We agree then that Elizabeth Caitlin Crawford's Life is forfeit.”

“So shall it be written, and so shall it be done” Anna seconded.

The Blonde waited a few seconds “Anna and Sarah will now present you the Plans for Operation “Judgement Day”! Kindly she looked at Hayley “If you are too tired, we can postpone this, Part!”

Hayley was tired, that much was clear, but she shook her Head “No, I want to hear it!”

“Very well!” Chris smiled “Anna, Sarah if you may?”

The Pianist sheathed her Blade and sat down.

Anna and Sarah rose “Justine!” the Canadian commanded “Present Operation “Judgement Day!”

“Of Course!” the Artificial Intelligence responded.

Sophie looked closely at Chris. The Pianist was focused – but the Lawyer knew it had been important for the Blonde that the Evidence to take this Decision. Terminating Crawford was incontrovertible. Taking a life was never easy but in this Case especially.

They could Crawford hand over to law enforcement. The Lawyer had spent the Night reviewing the Evidence. It would have withstood in any Court of the civilized World.

But in the End, it came down to this: Kirsty and Hayley deserved a life of Happiness. And not have to look over their Shoulder every Day.

Sophie knew well enough how precious that Good was.



Elizabeth Crawford could have just backed down after the Case of Lynnewood Hall. She did not:

The Mystery of Lynnewood Hall: Chapter 3 by Imhotep-Ra on DeviantArt
https://www.deviantart.com/imhotep-ra/a ... 946081530


And she did not stand down after the failed Attempt on Hayley´s Life.

The Holy Scripture said it all:

"For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord.”

Sophie smiled.

Sometimes the Lord needed some help …

The Lawyer concentrated on the Presentation:

Anna and Sarah outlined the Operational Concept of Operation Judgement Day. The Thief smiled deviously “We will not strike quickly. We will take Time -and play a Game of Thrones first before we actually strike.”

“Crawford shall look over her back always” Anna seconded “This will be the first Stage.”

“We want Chris to life rent-free in her Head and for her to know and to feel what Kirsty wrote her in the Letter to her:

“From now on you will always look over your Shoulder. You will never know if Chris is behind you. Will it be the swift Stroke of a Katana? The sharp Pain of a Shuriken between your Eyes? A Dagger to your Heart?

Watch your Back, Liz”

“Nicely put!” Natasha Bolkonskaya chuckled.

“Didn´t hinder her though!” Kirsty huffed “You could not have prevented it, my love!” Hayley said softly and squeezed her Wife´s Hand.

The Black Lady continued unabashed “The second Phase will be the actual Strike! We have a few different Scenarios prepared ….


Mystery Island, later:


Crawford faced Harper and Louise Williams “Any News!” The Blonde and Williams exchanged a look. They were concerned. Crawford had circumvented them. She ordered the second Strike on Hayley King on her own.

“We do have News.” Williams avoided Eye Contact “We have Scraps” Harper faced her Boss. The Hospital has been cordoned off. The Place is more protected than Fort Knox: SWAT Teams. Private Security.”

The Blonde inhaled deeply “Elizabeth. This second Attempt was an Error.” Crawford fumed but kept her Silence “Hayley King is alive. She is surrounded by an Iron Wall now.” Her second in Command paused “And Chris von der Marwitz will be coming for you. A determined Foe penetrates any Safeguards. And she is determined. None of your Guards will be able to withstand her – and there are the Members of her Team.”

Harper breathed in deeply and waited – had she overplayed her Hand?

But someone had to tell Crawford the Truth.

“You will beef up Security!” Crawford said flatly “Do not disappoint me. Leave me!”

As Harper and Williams had left? Elizabeth stepped on the Patio. It was late afternoon, and the Stone Plates felt warm under her nyloned Soles. Had Harper been right?”

Deep in her Heart? She knew “She is ….”

The Words Kirsty had written? Crawford remembered them verbatim.

“Will it be like that from now on? Will I have to watch my back always?”

The green Eyes faced her sternly:

“You will.”

Calmly and controlled.


Sarah McKenzie´s Penthouse early evening after Dinner:



Chris leaned back contentedly and sighed “Sarah did I ever tell you how I love that Lamb-Madras of yours?”

Anna grinned wickedly “A few Times! For my Part? It burned my Innards!” The Russian grinned “What we are about to do with the rest of the Evening?”

The Thief chuckled “I have different Ideas!” She looked at Chris, Kate, and Rachel “You will join me!” Chris noticed the glitter in the Canadian´s dark Eyes “I have an Idea where this is going …”

Sarah McKenzie smiled coyly “I did not doubt that for a second, despite you are Blonde as they can get!” “You sound like an old Gramophone – you know!” The Pianist grinned “Choose a new record!”

The dark-haired Thief nodded “I will!” She turned to Anna and Merit “Merit, you should spend some quality Time with your Mistress. You were so very brave!” Sarah noticed the Tears forming in the Egyptian´s dark Eyes “You were” The Thief stated gently but firmly “To do what you did? Requires Courage and quick thinking!”

Anna smiled “I will reward my Lady-in-Waiting!”
“You will!” The Thief commanded and turned to Chris, Rachel, and Kate “Get dressed and meet me in my Quarters! You know the Drill!”

Rachel smiled “We do!”

Amiably chatting the Ladies filed out and went to their respective Guest Suites. Merit followed her Mistress to her Suite “I have made some Preparations already: I want you to go the Bathroom, freshen up, have a tinkle, and put on the Wardrobe you find there!” Anna ordered sternly “Of course Mistress!” Merit bowed her Head and left for the Bathroom. A coy Smile curled the Russian´s lips.

She went to the Wardrobe and began to undress – and redress herself. The Russian heard Merit singing in her Mother Language. Anna had not told the Egyptian that, but she had written a Fantasy about one of Merit´s Songs – for Violin and Piano. She had wanted to present her Lady in Waiting with it at her next Birthday … But after yesterday? “We should give it sooner to her!”

Finally, the young Egyptian stepped out …. Her shoulder-length black Hair shimmered, and she had applied fresh make-up. Her full Lips shimmering ruby red. The Shade matched those of her freshly painted toenails and shimmered through the reinforced black nylon of her Pantyhose. Besides matching Bra and Panties she wore nothing.

Anna had opted for a red Cat-Suit and nude Hose “Step nearer Lady Merit!” she spoke in a formal Tone befitting the Aristocrat she was “Yes Milady!” Merit sauntered nearer …. ”Stand there!” the Russian commanded as her Lady-in-Waiting was only one Metre distant “Hands at your Side! Palms flat on your Thighs!” The Egyptian complied and looked down at her Toes. She was excited …. What had the Violinist in Mind? Merit had spotted the long silken Scarfs and a large amount of used Hose on the Table.

Anna took the silken red shawl and tied Merit´s slender Ankles together. Tight and secure – but not uncomfortable not that she wanted to escape … The dark-haired Russian had just finished tying Merit´s wrists to the corresponding Thigh … Merit spoke haltingly, “Does it ever go away?” Anna stopped in her Tracks “What do you mean Merit?” “After I shot that fake Doctor, I felt ….” Her Lady-in-Waiting searched for Words “Shock, Numbness, Revulsion?” the Russian supplied gently.

“I felt dirty” Merit whispered, “I still do” “It will get better with Time, it gets easier – but it stays always with you” her Mistress explained gently “Sometimes the Ghosts visit me.” She looked Merit in the Eye – and the younger Woman saw Compassion and understanding only in those keen dark Eyes “The most important Thing: You have Friends you can talk to, or you can see a Counsellor. And never forget: You saved a life yesterday!”

Anna smiled “Shall we continue?” “Yes, Mistress!” Now Merit smiled.

30 Minutes later Anna had made a pantyhose encased Mummy out of Merit. The Russian jumped on the Bed – and caressed Merit´s encased Body gently with her Hands, from Head to Toe again, and again ….

Merit enjoyed the gentle Touches of her Mistress. As the Russian tickled her under her high Arches? She giggled into her packed Mouth: Anna had put one used Pair of Hose into her Mouth. Since she was blindfolded, and Ear Buds rendered her deaf? Merit had to rely on the only Sense left that was not impaired. She shuddered as Anna´s left Sole glided above her right Breast.

The vibrating Egg lodged into her Pussy buzzed on a low Setting. Slowly all Tension left her Body. The Violinist watched as Merit relaxed. She had been so brave.



Sarah McKenzie´s Bedroom around the same Time:




The Master Thief was giddy with Excitement – that her Friends agreed to play – was more than she had expected. But she had speculated that after the last 24 Hours, all were in the Mood for it. Of Course, the Thief had played with each of them several Times and pranked them.

One of those Pranks, when she had met Chris in Vienna and turned her into a golden Statue, a Special Exhibit at the KHI in Vienna, had almost destroyed the volatile Relationship between the Thief and the Artist. Only the Events around the Hunt for the Lost Scrolls had mended Fences.

Notice:

Have a look here:


A study in gold, Part 2 by Imhotep-Ra on DeviantArt
https://www.deviantart.com/imhotep-ra/a ... -934393149


And Here:



The Hunt for the Lost Scrolls: Chapter 69 by Imhotep-Ra on DeviantArt
https://www.deviantart.com/imhotep-ra/a ... -998091029

The Canadian was curious about the Pianist´s Relationship with Ardeth Bey. Finally, the Blonde seemed to have found someone she could relate to and who could handle her. A firm Knock at the Door interrupted her Musings.

Without Waiting for her Confirmation Chris stepped over the Threshold followed by Rachel and Kate. The Pianist wore an emerald, green silken Dressing Gown and Birkenstocks which matched the Gown – and the Pianist´s Eyes in Tone. Rachel´s Colour was Burgundy Red; the Detective wore Prussian Blue today.

Chris smiled coyly, a mischievous Twinkle in her Eyes “What´s up Sarah?” The Thief took in the Sight before her: Three of the most beautiful and fascinating Women she knew. Very different from each other, but each a complex Personality.

“First Things first!” the Canadian clapped in her Hands: “Remove the Gowns! To hide your Charms would be an unforgivable Sin!” “The Word Sin in your Mouth has a certain Taste to it!” Rachel Weinstein teased the Canadian as she took off her Gown, folded it neatly, and laid it on a small round Table.

The Heiress was the oldest among the Team of Art. Inc. – but in her early Fifties the curvaceous Blonde had an impressive Figure. Her Muscle Tone betrayed the Fact she worked out regularly. Sarah McKenzie´s Eyes rested for a Moment on her impressive Bossom … she had pleasant Memories playing with those firm and full D-Cups – which still did not sag a Millimetre.

“Just you wait Rachel!” the Thief was not miffed in the slightest.

Chris and Kate had followed the Exchange with barely hidden amusement “Stop Laughing you two!” Sarah chided the Duo.

Her smile grew devious: “Let us get this Show on the Road.”

“You are prepared Ladies? I mean fully prepared?”

“Of course! You know us!” Kate grinned “Let us begin!” The Thief ordered, “You see the knotted silken Scarfs there?” She pointed to a Sideboard, made of Ebony “Rachel will give Kate a nice Crotch Scarf” The Canadian grinned “Kate will return the Favour – and I take care of Chris!”

The Blonde had to smile: Sarah McKenzie enjoyed dominating her, and she made the Scarf tight …. “Now!” the Black Lady pointed at the Sideboard again: There lay three large nylon Balls: Filled stockings ….

“I worked very hard to prepare the Fillings” The Thief explained “Two Pairs of Panties each, three from me, and three from other Contributors!”

“I bet involuntary ones!” Kate Beckett deadpanned.

“No comment” The Thief chuckled “Now take a Stocking each and put them into your Mouths – take a role of translucent Tape and make twenty wraps. I will take over then!”

Sarah pointed at the three makeshift Balls “From left to, right? “Number one is for Rachel, Number two for Kate, and Number three” the black-haired Thief smiled wickedly at Chris “For you Blondie!”

As the Blonde stuffed the Ball into her mouth, she mumbled something into her packed Mouth “Yes” The Black Lady grinned “I cheated: You have the biggest Mouth so that you could handle one more!”

“Let us continue!” Sarah McKenzie clapped into her Hands. She was continuing meant: Completing the Gags, Earbuds, Pantyhood, and Stocking Cap.

And silken Blindfolds.

Chris could only hear as Thief rendered Kate and Rachel helpless: Muffled Grunts and Curses. Slaps on nylon-covered Butts “For you I have something special in mind Chrissie!” the Thief had chuckled.

“Someday I will kill her!” Chris mused – as she waited. Somehow, she had the Feeling that her Gag was thicker and more thorough than those of her fellow Damsels. The Pianist could not deny that Today she was just in the Mood to play. She had laid down several ground Rules for the Thief – not that she was entirely sure, McKenzie would respect them. But something told her she would. The Time in Egypt had changed their Relationship.


St. Mary´s: Hayley´s Suite:




“How are you, my love?” Kirsty eyed her Wife critically: The Bruises and the Cuts on her battered Face had begun to heal. The Swelling had receded. Today Hayley had walked for the first Time on her own Accord, assisted by Nurse Funchal to the Bathroom. It had been hard Work – and afterward, the American had slept for an Hour. But it had been important for her Wife Kirsty to get back on her own Feet as soon as possible.

Kirsty sensed a certain Restlessness though.

“I could use some Relaxation” the Blonde pouted “Out of the Question!” the Briton put her foot firmly down “Your internal sutures could rupture easily!” Hayley looked crestfallen “I know ….” She said softly – Kirsty smiled “I have arranged something though – or more precisely Sarah and me – with a little Help from Nurse Funchal and Stephenson have.

“Tell me!” Hayley demanded “All in due Time!” Kirsty grinned mischievously “You know Head Nurse Hadley Scott” Her Wife nodded “She is pretty strict!” Hadley Scott was six Foot tall in her stockinged Feet, athletically built, and had a strong resemblance to Michelle Obama.

“I made some discreet Inquiries” Kirsty grinned “She is pretty strict, and Scuttlebutt says she has a kinky Side!” Hayley was definitely intrigued; the Blonde had an Idea of where this was leading ….

The Briton looked at her Watch “As it happens her Shift ends in 10 Minutes; her Husband is on a Business Trip – and tomorrow is her free Day. And even better? Her Teenage Daughter is in Italy with her High School Class ….”

“What do you have in Mind?” Kirsty noticed the Glitter in the Blonde´s Eyes “This is what we will do ….” Ten Minutes later. Head Nurse Scott sighed. It had been a long Shift …. She looked forward to having a good Soak at Home with a fine Red – and maybe some good old fashioned Selfbondage …!”

A Signal interrupted her …. The tall Nurse looked at the Switchboard. The blinking red light told her that Hayley King needed her …. The Commissioner´s Daughter was her Responsibility. Scott sighed and walked down the Corridor; her white Arizona Birkenstocks made squishing Sounds on the Floor.

The Head Nurse knocked firmly at the Door of Hayley King´s Suite “Enter!” the Blonde called. Hadley Scott stepped into the comfortable Suite, which rivalled any Five-Star-Hotel. The Blonde smiled at her and winced “Could you look after the Bandages please – they are a little tight?” “Sure” Scott shrugged and stepped nearer.

The Attack came out of nowhere. One Arm pressed her Arms against her Body and lifted her off her Feet, another pressed a sickly-smelling damp Cloth on her Face. Hadley had already inhaled a healthy Dose of the Potent Fumes, that already sapped her Strength.

Her Attacker was very strong and compressed her Diaphragm firmly together. Scott´s Vision already shrunk, and her Fingers and Toes tingled “Why Hayley King does not call for help?” Hayley watched the inequal Struggle. Hadley

Scott was strong, but Kirsty had ample Routine in subduing Damsels. Scott´s Struggles grew weaker. Finally, her Eyes rolled back in her Head. Ever the Professional Kirsty pressed the Cloth a good while longer on her Victims face – to be on the safe Side.

Effortlessly she carried the unconscious Nurse to the second Bett and laid her down. Quickly Kirsty stripped Hadley out of her starched white uniform and chuckled “Naughty Girl!” Indeed: Under her Uniform, Hadley wore a very sexy set of red Bra and Panties and thigh-high nude Stockings …

Kirsty pulled the thick white Socks off the unconscious Woman´s feet “Nice Nail Polish too!” She grinned “Let´s get her ready!” Sarah had left a brown leather Travel Bag ….


Sarah McKenzie´s Bedroom:



“Comfy Ladies?” The Dark Lady quipped, earning her some heavily muffled Mumbles from her very large Bed …. Rachel and Kate were tied together in a kneeling Frogtie. The Thief had borne their Breasts. Sensually Kate and Rachel rubbed their Breasts against each other. The Brunette and the Blonde were riding the Wave again.

They were blindfolded with a Scarf, and hooded with a Stocking Cap.

Chris was in a Predicament she knew too well because the Thief liked tying her that way …. The Pianist remembered a Night at Hall Place ….

“[…] Comfortable reclined the thief sat in a well-padded armchair, her feet popped up on a footstool, on the table next to her a carafe with a rich and heavy red wine of Spanish Vintage. For comfort, the Canadian had dressed in a red woollen turtleneck sweater, thick black leggings, and two pairs of thick red woollen socks on her feet.

She read Clausewitz´s famous treaty about the art of war in an English translation. Sarah shut the book “You know Chris? Clausewitz was right with what he wrote about the “Fog of War”, don´t you think?”

Chris did not reply “Upps I forgot, your earbuds are on” From the small table next to her she retrieved her iPad, typed, and repeated her question Chris grunted her acknowledgment because she could not communicate otherwise.

The pianist sat on Sarah´s bed. Her whole body was encased in nylon. The Canadian had tied her legs first frog-tied and then tied Chris's nyloned Soles together, so that they were tightly pressed against each other, her big toes tied too for good measure. Between her soles a vibrator was lodged, buzzing on a low frequency.

A tight crotch-rope held a vibrating egg in her vagina, also buzzing on a low frequency “Priming the pump” the thief called that, and indeed Chris was very aroused by now.

Her musky scent hang heavy in the air. The blonde´s ample bossom was compressed and enhanced by a tight breast harness, which made her breasts only more sensitive. Her nipples had the Canadian adorned with vibrating clamps, also buzzing on a more or less medium setting more annoying than painful.

Chris hands had been wrapped into duct-tape, in each hand the pianist held a foam ball. Her arms and wrists were tied in a modified box-tie which was more a reverse prayer tie. Chris wrists were almost between her shoulder blades.

The blonde´s head was covered in silk scarves, only her nose protruded from the silk. The shawls hid a most elaborated gag: Firstly the thief had packed Chris´ mouth with two pairs of used panties and in the space between a small sock.

Over that one shawl, a used sock and second shawl, a used sock, a third shawl. Sarah had taped gauze pads above Chris´ eyes and covered them with a Shawl. One shawl had been bound above her head and knotted unter her chin, causing her to bite down on the packing inside her mouth. Two more shawls covered her head.

She had been bound like this for over an hour. Sweat covered her skin by now. A soft groan escaped her lips, barely audible. The Thief switched the ear buds into silent mode and Chris was in her own small world again.

The persistent stimulation took its toll – and she knew by know how good Sarah was at this Game, letting her simmer on low temperature till she would have raped a goat, the sensory deprivation did its part in keeping her on edge. When the ear buds were off, the only the only thing she could hear was the pounding of her blood. […]


You find the full Chapter here:


The Hunt for the lost Scrolls: Chapter 18 by Imhotep-Ra on DeviantArt
https://www.deviantart.com/imhotep-ra/a ... -945862009


Her current Predicament was very similar, with a few Enhancements …. Sarah McKenzie pressed her nyloned Sole´ on Chris's nose … Her foot glided lower between Chris´ full Breasts – and deeper till her Toes found the Pianist´s Crotch … teased her. The nyloned Foot glided upwards again. She let her left big Toe glide around Chris´s left Breast, the Thief touched the Blonde´s Breasts with both of her feet simultaneously.

The Pianist´s grown was Music in the Thief´s Ear.


St. Mary´s: Hayley´s Suite:


Hadley Scott groaned … “Where am I? What has happened?” Her mind was still foggy … Hayley King had called for her, and she had entered the Room, when she was attacked. She struggled against the Bonds … she had been hogtied …. Stripped to her Underwear, hogtied, and gagged – with her Socks. Her Toes had been tied too. Hadley Scott tugged at her Crotchrope. And found her Rhythm quickly …

Hayley and Kirsty watched with Amusement “That was a brilliant Idea!” the Blonde smiled.

Kirsty grinned: “Tomorrow Morning Nurse Funchal will find her Superior accidentally in an empty Suite … in medical Restraints!”

“But before ….” The Briton took an electric Toothbrush

Hadley just recovered from her first Orgasm as the Toothbrush´s rotating Head touched her left heel – simultaneous the vibrating Egg in her Pussy sprung into High Gear …

Soon her heavily muffled peals of laughter filled the Suit … and moans of Pleasure ….

And this was only the Beginning.


Mystery Island:



If Elizabeth Crawford knew her adversaries had a blissful night and were enjoying themselves? Her Mood would have been darker than it already was.

She took the Elevators to the Dungeons of Mystery Island.

There was someone she had to talk to.

The Elevator stopped two Levels under the Dungeons of Mystery Island. Only a very small Group of People this Level existed.

They were the “Unspeakables.” Whenever they were not on Duty, they were under full Restraints to ensure their Silence.

Crawford left the Elevator. It was significantly cooler down here. She had to pass three Security Barriers. Each with a different Lock. Captive 1016/8 had not left its Prison for four Months. Before the Captive was released in the Morning it was knocked out. Before it was restrained again it was knocked out again.

The shock Collar it wore ensured some sort of Compliance. Captive 1016/8 knew it would be shocked into Oblivion if it did not follow Orders. The Inhabitant of this Dungeon was no Fool though. So, it followed Orders and did exercise when ordered to. Eat when ordered to. Shower and clean up when ordered to.

One of its main Character Traits? Patience. Captive´s 1016/8 Time would come. It knew that.

Obedience had been awarded. Obstinacy had been punished. The Captive played along for the Time being. Had been the model Captive.

Crawford stepped down the polished Corridor. The Air was cool and fresh here deep inside the Island´s Heart. The Criminal Master Mind stopped before the massive, polished Titanium Alloy Door. She typed in a Code. With a soft click, the Door swung open.

Elizabeth hesitated. But stepped over the Threshold, nevertheless. The large, cavernous Room could have been the Suite of a five-star Hotel.

Except for the massive cot on which a gargantuan black Cocoon rested. More massive even, when the latest Model of the Enhanced Restraining System. Crawford stepped nearer and looked down at the Inhabitant of the Cocoon.

Cold grey Eyes stared back. Unblinking.

“Listen!” Crawford spoke finally “I have a Proposal for you. You accept we part Ways. If not, you will stay here to rot!”

The grey Eyes betrayed nothing.

“Listen!” Crawford said, “This is what I want you to do!”

Later:

As she returned to her Quarters?

Crawford cursed the Day.

The Day she met Hayley King.

She knew the Fable of the Scorpion and the Fro

[algebrauk]

The team are playing as they are content with their plans… Crawford is afraid, under pressure of what is to come.

Brilliant storytelling as always @Caesar73

[Nainur]

never, ever going boring - it is good to read - and return to - some well known tropes and fetishes! I certainly appreciate them!

[Caesar73]

never, ever going boring - it is good to read - and return to - some well known tropes and fetishes! I certainly appreciate them!

Thank you @Nainur ! I changed the whole conception of Chapter 20. which will be final one. So there will be no update this Weekend. I am fairly optimistic though, the final Chapter will be up next Weekend.

Lots of Drama and Surprise is guaranteed.

The Chapters Title?

"The Scorpion and the Frog."

[LunaDog]

Looking forward to it already. Somehow, this story, for a while anyway, seems to have 'slipped through my fingers.' Only just caught up with it. But i needn't have worried, utterly magnificent as always from you.

[Caesar73]

Only just caught up with it. But i needn't have worried, utterly magnificent as always from you.

No Problem at all @LunaDog absolutely not. Thank you for your support! Work on Chapter 20 is progressing nicely. I am fairly optimistic that it will be complete next weekend. There will be some surprises! Think of James Bond and Mission Impossible!

[Caesar73]

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

Tying the Knot:


Chapter 20

From the Files of Art. Inc.


Judgement Day IV



“The Scorpion and the Frog”



Four Weeks later:


Somewhere in the Vicinity of Geneva, Switzerland

Elizabeth Crawford paced the polished marble Floor in the stately Villa around 20 Kilometres from Geneva like a Tiger in a Cage “It was her. I am sure!” She huffed “That blonde Bitch”

Sitting in a comfy Armchair the Woman known as Captive 1016/8 watched the Master-Criminal with barely hidden amusement. Her sleek glossy black hair was in a Ponytail. She was tall and athletically built, around six feet.

Her Asian Features would have been beautiful, had not the large fresh angry red half-moon-shaped Scar marred her otherwise beautiful Features. The Woman wore a black leather Catsuit and polished high-heeled black leather boots.

Her keen grey Eyes followed Crawford´s every Movement “She is living rent-free in your Head” Captive 1016/8 stated calmly “That is what she wants” Elizabeth Crawford had a business Meeting in Geneva with a Client when she spotted a tall blonde Woman in the Crowd.

It had been only seconds, but she had been sure. And she was sure a cool smile had curled the Blonde´s lips, ere she vanished in the Crowd.

This was not the first incident of the Kind: In the last four Weeks, Crawford always felt someone was watching her. Two Times Captive 1016/8 had explained to her it had been von der Marwitz “How do you know!” The Criminal had demanded “I am trained to feel her Presence, as she is aware of mine” Her new Bodyguard had explained:

“She wanted me to sense her Presence” The Woman with the Scar and the Asian Features added “Someone as well versed in the Secrets like her can dim down her Presence when she wants it” “Like an on-and-off Switch” Now Crawford sounded intrigued.

“Not very accurate” Captive 1016/8 nodded “But in Principle yes.” The Asian Women locked Eyes with Crawford: “A Grand Master has trained Von der Marwitz. It would be wise to not underestimate her.

“Nonsense” the Master-Criminal huffed “I do not believe in those Ninja-Nonsense!” Captive 1016/8 smiled enigmatically “That might be unwise” She did not pursue the Angle further. Crawford´s Choice.

The Master Criminal changed the Subject to “Is everything ready?” The other Woman nodded calmly “All Pieces of the Puzzle are in Place.”


Collogne-Bellerive, Canton Geneva, early afternoon after Dinner :


Collogne-Bellerive was a small community at the shores of Lake Geneva, a 20 Minute Drive from Geneva. Ekaterina Oblomova entered the security code into the pad and the massive double-winged gates swung open noiselessly and closed behind her.

In the Center of the Compound of 10000 square meters stood a “medium-sized” Villa, built at the End of the 19th Century – it had been built by a banker who searched for the peace of this secluded area which offered a fantastic view of the Lake Geneva and a short distance to Geneva. “Medium” meant: Compared to many other Estates around, this Villa was mediocre in size.

A high wall surrounded the Compound – many large old trees shielded the Villa from prying eyes. The Peace the Place offered suited Ekaterina perfectly – in fact, this was one reason why she had chosen this – for a wealthy Russian – rather modest location.

Modest was relative of course.

Ekaterina entered the large Living Room. She had arranged for her Mother to spend some Day´s at an exclusive Spa, which specialized in People with her Condition, and scolded herself, “Condition”…. Opponents of her Father the late Boris Oblomov, had abducted her Mother, tortured and sexually assaulted her. Since then, the Soul of Anoushka Oblomova had been damaged …

Ekaterina wanted her Mother out of the Way. For her own Safety. No one knew what would happen in the next Days.

To learn more read here:

Anna Romanova and the Cross of Romanov: Chapter 10 by Imhotep-Ra on DeviantArt

https://www.deviantart.com/imhotep-ra/a ... -961332992

Chris looked from one to the other:

In the spacious living Room, the whole Team was assembled. Birte Ricciarelli had been the last to arrive. The tenacious Europol-Cop had brought a high-profile Case to a close: A Smuggling Operation that had operated in Europe on a grand Scale and had specialized in Etruscan Art. As it happened Birte, and her Colleagues had uncovered Connections to Crawford´s Network.

“So, you are sure, Crawford spotted you” Sarah McKenzie smiled “I did my best” Chris grinned. The Pianist sighed “Too bad, we don´t know from where Crawford operates here in Switzerland “I am on it” Sybil, the technical Genius of the Group piped up “She has vanished in thin Air” Anna huffed “Quite the Feature” Natascha Bolkonskaya agreed “We lost the Trace of her, as soon her Jet had landed on the Private Airfield.

“She cannot vanish from the Earth” Kate Beckett stated firmly “We will find her.” Along with Rachel Weinstein, Hayley, and Kirsty, the seasoned Detective had arrived the Day before. Four Weeks had passed since the Bombing and the second Assassination Attempt on Hayley – after ten Days in St. Mary´s the American had begun her Rehab at a very exclusive Clinic in the North of Vermont. Hayley´s Condition had improved so much, that Dr. Meyers had no objections that she and Kirsty could make the Trip over the Atlantic.

Ekaterina had organized medical Care as long as Hayley would stay. The American had firmly insisted on being present in the final Phase of Operation Judgement Day, which was scheduled to commence in 48 Hours.

Now Hayley was resting after Dinner.

The Medical Staff Ekaterina had hired was pleased with the Patient. Hayley continued her physical Exercises. Her broken Rips had healed. She had to go a mile or two still. But she was determined to get better. And worked hard on it.

Sophie Reichenbach smiled at Ragna and Ekaterina “I heard you will go to the Opera this Evening and spend the Night in the City. The Lawyers right Hand rested on Evie´s left: The Egyptologist had arrived from London the other day.

“Tristan and Isolde” the herculean Icelandress nodded “It is my first Tristan” Ekaterina explained “Somehow it did escape me so far.” Anna chuckled “If you ask me? Wagner is overrated anyway” The Russian leaned forward, smiling slyly “And your Plans afterward” Ekaterina looked longingly at her Companion “That” she smiled coyly “Is on a strict need-to-know-Basis Anna dearest!” The Violinist blinked “I need to know!”

“You don´t!” Ragna grinned “You Anna of all People!” The Russian pouted.

“By the way: Where is Merit? That I need to know Anna, I am her Tutor after all!” Among Ragna´s Tasks was being the young Egyptian´s Tutor, helping her to adjust to the new World she now was Part of:

The Hunt for the Lost Scrolls: Epilogue I by Imhotep-Ra on DeviantArt

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The tall dark-haired Russian grinned “She insisted on practicing Escapology “That means she is somewhere stashed away in a Closet?” Natasha ventured “Not exactly” the Violinist explained “She is mummified and stowed into a Sarcophagus in the Cellars. Ekaterina found the Relic when she had the Cellars renovated.”

Chris followed the Conversations attentively. Her Mind was elsewhere though. Sensei Nakamura had trained her to listen to her Instincts – and since they had arrived at the Lake Geneva, she felt uneasy.

So far Operation Judgement Day had gone according to Plan with clockworklike Precision. And that made Chris not nervous, but more attentive. As she met Crawford the other Day though, the Blonde had felt a Presence she could not place. A strong Presence. Not for the first Time.

And not a friendly one.

The Pianist felt keen Eyes resting on her, she looked up and into the coal-black-Eyes of Sarah McKenzie “What is it Blondie? Everything is going according to Plan.” The Blonde shrugged “Probably that makes me uneasy.” The Masterthief looked long at the Pianist “What do your guts tell you then?” “I cannot lay my finger on it something feels off.”

The Canadian nodded sincerely “You should listen to your Guts – always.”

Chris turned to Ragna and Ekaterina “I have no good feeling; you are going out alone – as long as Crawford is not accounted for.” She raised her Palm as Ragna was about to speak “I know you are looking forward to that Evening so much – and I cannot hinder you from going!”

“Would you feel better if I go with them?” Natasha proposed

The Pianist was surprised: Even after two Years and after Egypt. If she was honest? Chris had never expected that the Russian would keep her side of the Bargain. The one they had struck on Cyprus. But she had. And she had come to her Aid when Chris had expected it the least – and needed it the most.

Her Thoughts wandered back to that Moment in Cyprus, Years ago:

Anna Romanova and the Cross of Romanov: Chapter 20 by Imhotep-Ra on DeviantArt

https://www.deviantart.com/imhotep-ra/a ... -971599339


[…] So, it came, that the dark-haired Russian sat at a well-laid table together with her Captors. Her ankles had been shackled together and to a ring in the floor. That was her only restraint. Her stomach grumbled as she smelled the strong coffee, bacon, eggs ….Natasha was astute enough to keep her mouth shut.

Her Captors wore colourful summer dresses and Birkenstocks which matched their dresses. Von der Marwitz looked long at her. Not unfriendly though “You probably wonder what you are doing here. I have decided” the blonde paused “Six Months ago I would probably have killed you” Her voice was calm and measured “but in the last weeks I have been thinking – after I beheaded Renko”

Natasha looked intrigued at the blonde “Killing you would give me no satisfaction” – another pause “Your punishment will be of a different sort: You will go to Geneva and serve and protect Ekaterina and Anouchka Oblomova. Your Boss has made many enemies and some of them might be out there and think his daughter and wife are easy prey. You are perfectly equipped to protect them – and I know you do not like Ekaterina very much, and I expect you to make this work”

With a stern look, the pianist added: “Make no mistake I will learn if you are up to your old tricks. What do you say?”

“You can speak” Anna seconded “The Collar is off”

“This is no joke, right?” Natasha´s distrust was palpable. The blonde held her gaze “No, this is no joke” The Russian shook her head “You are a strange woman Blondie: You killed all those men cold-blooded, and now you show mercy?”

“Enough blood has been spilled” the blonde replied calmly “It is that simple” she continued “And make no mistake those bastards got what they deserved: They all took part in your late boss pervert games: Torturing and killing at least eight women – don´t tell me you did not know that”

The blonde almost spat.

“What Arkadi Renko did to and with the Journalist Anya Amasova made me wretch” Her green eyes drilled into Natasha´s grey eyes “We obtained the material on your boss´ servers – so please spare me that fake outrage”

The two women stared at each other – and it was Natasha who broke eye contact first.

“I told you once: You have a choice” the Blonde added “Now you have a second choice. I want your answer after breakfast” Chris pointed at the table: “Tuck in!” And so it happened that Natasha found herself on a flight to Geneva the next day.

She gazed out of the Window, Natasha still pondering about that turn of events. She had expected the heavy bondage. Corporeal Punishment and that had been inflicted on her. But not by far as harshly as von der Marwitz had been treated during her Captivity.

“Chris von der Marwitz” the Russian mused “You are really a strange woman” Natasha had expected to lose her head instead she got offered a second chance. What had the blonde said, “I am a great believer in second chances – and a hopeless optimist” and a small but genuine smile had curled her lips.

“I would” Chris nodded and paused, looking Natasha keenly in the Eye. Searching for something – and finding nothing “That is settled then.”

[…]

Since then, the Russian had fulfilled her Duties professionally and diligently and even become Friends with her Employer …


Later that Evening: Hotel Four Seasons, Geneva:


Ragna, Ekaterina, and Natasha were chatting amiably – as they walked down the Corridor that led to the Suite Ekaterina and Ragna had booked for the Night. The Icelandress and her Companion giggled like two besotted Schoolgirls. Both had enjoyed the Champaign very much – Natasha had stayed abstinent. She was a Professional after all and her Job was to ensure her Employer´s Safety.

She had noticed Chris´ look as she explained she would volunteer. Not that she could not understand the Blonde. In Chris´ Shoes? Natasha would have distrusted herself. At Times she still wondered why she had accepted Chris´ and Anna´s Offer. She had not regretted it though. Never.

Natasha focused:

The Russian had not detected any out of the Ordinary. They were near the Suite de Luxe by now – Ragna and Ekaterina tapped along on stockinged Feet. The Icelandress held her silver Aquazura Sandals loosely in her left. They matched the strapless sequin Gown in Colour. The Russian had chosen a sapphire blue Dress and matching Heels of Gianvito Rossi.

Natasha wore her “Uniform” for such Occasions: A sleek black gown with matching Louboutin Platform Pumps. A long slit from the Ankle almost to the upper thigh showed a lot of leg. Her dark Eyes scanned the Area. She would have preferred to join her Charges in their Suite. Her Employer had firmly declined though.

Instead, Natasha had booked one of the last Single Rooms available.

Hideously expensive – but Ekaterina was buying. Natasha had to smile.

They stopped before the Suite´s Door “I can leave you two alone, right?” Natasha´s dark Eyes drilled into Ragna´s blue ones “We are big Girls Natasha!” the Icelandress chuckled “Have a good night!” “See you tomorrow!” Ekaterina grinned.

“Right then!” Natasha turned on her Heels and strode back the Corridor “Ragna? Where is the Key Card?” she heard Ekaterina giggling “Look closer!” The Icelandress whispered. The Door to the Suite closed with a soft click.

“Children!” the Russian sighed ….


Ragna and Ekaterina´s Suite:


Ragna´s and Ekaterina stepped over the Threshold.

Ekaterina pulled the Door shut behind them. On stockinged feet, they tapped along the short Floor and stepped into the Main Room. The Attack came out of nowhere. Had Ragna been sober, she would have reacted quicker so the powerful kick against her Breast knocked the Breath out of her and let her stumble back.

The Attacker followed through with a flurry of kicks and strokes. Ere Ragna could react her Assailant landed more punishing hits – one on her left eye. The herculean Blonde saw Stars. The next Stroke she evaded barely.

What was happening here?

Ekaterina stood stock still in shock as the tall Asian woman trashed her Companion mercilessly. Distracted she did not notice the Attacker behind her. A Cloth, a swelling sickly sweet thick Cloth was pressed ironclad on her Face. Another Arm pressed her Arms against her Body.

A third Pair of Hands grabbed her Ankles and lifted her off her feet. The Russian had lost the Fight before it had begun really. The Chloroform robbed her quickly of her Strength. Ekaterina Oblomova held her, Breath. Fought desperately.

A brutal jab against her Solarplexus forced her to breathe.

Her fingers and toes tingled; her Field of Vision narrowed. The Blonde heard a suppressed curse a soft thud. A body crashed to the Floor heavily. Ragna! She knew it had to be Ragna! Finally, she gave up. She breathed in deeply “That is good Miss Oblomova!” a female voice whispered in her Ear – in Russian.

Ekaterina fell into a deep Abyss.

Deep and bottomless.

Her Attacker let her body glide to the Floor “She put up quite the fight!” – she was muscular, athletic, dark-haired, and tall. An even taller Woman with Asian features ordered “Get her ready! I will take care of her off her Lover!”

Captive 1016/8 had to admit that the Icelandress had fought as best as she could, despite being caught on the wrong Foot.

“I would not want you to fight in a fair fight!” the Asian told the softly groaning Blonde. She bowed down, to undress her – and whispered something in the Blonde´s left Ear and pressed a pressure Point in her Neck.

Her opponent´s Body got limp.

Quickly Captive 1016/8 disrobed her herculean Blonde down to her Panties and nude Hose. The Asian could not help but admire the athletic Physique of the unconscious Blonde.

With Movements that betrayed long practice, the dark-haired Woman tied the Icelandress up. From her Combat gear, she produced an antique Nokia Phone in a zip-lock bag. There was also a scrap of Paper inside. Captive 1016/8 turned the Blonde on her Back and pulled her silver Panties down and inserted the Bag in Ragna´s Vagina.

20 Minutes later she had hogtied the tall Blonde, her big toes lashed together and tied to her braided blonde Hair. The Crotch Rope cut deep into Ragna. The Asian stood “Ready?” she asked her Teammates “Ready” the Russian Woman smiled. They had stripped Ekaterina, diapered her put a blue downfilled Suit on her. The Gag was a heavily padded Panel Gag.

Her Handlers had strapped Boris Oblomov´s Daughter on a Gurney and covered it with a Blanket “Let´s go then!” The Asian commanded.

The Attack-Team left the Suite, leaving the unconscious Ragna on the Floor.


Hours later: Natasha Bolkonskaya’s Room:


Sleep escaped Natasha that Night. Uneasily she rolled from the left to the right – and struggled against her Covers. The Russian had sent Chris a Message that she had delivered Ragna and Ekaterina to their Suite without a Hitch.

“Damnit!” Natasha cursed, threw the sweaty Covers aside, and tapped to the Bathroom. It was 0450 AM in the Morning. She relieved herself. The Tiles felt warm under her bare feet. As she tapped back to her Bed, she noticed something strange.

Her Smartphone signalled an incoming Call “At This Hour?” the athletic-built Woman wondered and looked at the Screen – and froze: Caller ID? Ragna …...

All sleepiness was gone in an Instant:

“F*ck!” Natasha Bolkonskaya cursed in Russian.



Ragna´s and Ekaterina´s Suite around the same Time:


Ragna groaned and breathed heavily. To make her Way, inch worming across the lush Carpet had been tedious. Even more so to unlock her Smartphone lying on the Floor. She had needed several Attempts to hit the right Numbers with her Nose.

The vibrating tool lodged in her Vagina had not exactly helped. Her Captor had tied her most securely: Elbows tied together, her bound toes tied to her braided Hair, her Elbows and the Crotchrope …

Her Body hurt in many Places. The Icelandress only dimly remembered what had happened after they had been attacked in their Suite. What she remembered was the Whisper of a soft Voice before she blackened out “Check the Phone”, So Ragna concluded that a Phone was vibrating in her Pussy. Seldom the Valkyrie had got handed her Ass that Way …

The Crotchrope – as all the other Ropes – were tight and secure. The Blonde had quickly discovered she would be unable to Pick the Knots, any Knot at all. She cursed into her fully packed Mouth – four Pairs of Panties as she learned later - “Chris has been right all along – we should have stayed home!” Ragna struggled fumingly against her Bonds – even if the coarse Ropes cut even deeper into her Skin. The soft Click of the Door to their Suite startled the Icelandress, she sighed in Relief “Natasha got the Message!”

Soft, but purposeful Footsteps came nearer. They stopped. From her prone Position on the Floor, Ragna could see the gleaming Tips of a Pair of red Sneakers. She craned her Neck even if her Neck-Muscles screamed in Pain and looked into Natasha´s dark Eyes: The Russian wore a black Jump Suit and held a Glock in her right Hand.

“I should not have left you alone I guess!” the tall-black haired Woman quipped. Produced a sharp combat knife and bowed down “Let us get you out of this Mess!” The Russian looked intently at Ragna´s battered Face “You will sport a beautiful black eye!” Ragna's gag talk talked furiously back, Eyes blazing.

“Calm down!” Natasha stroked the Icelandress gently above the Crown of her Head “I just joked” and set to work.

One Hour later:

Chris paced the Floor in the Music Room of the Villa. She could not tell what had woken her up. After Natasha´s Text, she had been somewhat calmed and fallen asleep easily. One Hour ago, she had woken up.

Chris had tapped down on socked feet to the Kitchen and brewed a Cup of Green Tea. Now she sat in front of the Grand Piano. She took another Sip. It was 0550 AM in the Morning. The Blonde was in deep Concentration, so she did not notice the Door to the Music Room opening. The soft Touch on her left Shoulder startled her “What Anna?” and turned around.

Her best Friend looked attentively at her “What is it?” Anna spoke gently. In her left Hand, she held her Stradivarius and her Bow “Something has happened, something bad” As if confirming that Notion? Chris´ iPhone flashed.

The Blonde took the Call and listened – long “Come back here, I will inform the Team.” Chris ended the Call and looked at Anna “Ragna and Ekaterina have been attacked. Ekaterina has been abducted.”

Anna cursed in Russian.


Unknown Location near Geneva, one Hour later:


Ekaterina groaned softly. She had been drifting in and out for some time. By now she was sure about the Nature of her Predicament. They had been attacked. Ragna had taken a heavy beating, and Ekaterina herself had been chloroformed.

Hayley had described once the Enhanced Restraining System to them. And Ekaterina was sure she had been restrained in exactly the same way the American had described to them. The Russian felt the thick diaper around her groin.

The heavily padded Panel Gag. The Mittens. The leather Straps. The Toe cuffs. The Russian starred at the Ceiling above her. It was pristine White. The Restraining Bags were surprisingly comfortable. She sighed and leaned back “I can do nothing” she sighed into her Gag “I do hope Ragna is okay!” She had heard a Body crashing to the Floor. A Groan. Ragna, her Ragna had been beaten in Submission. Ekaterina suppressed a Tear “I will not weep in Front of those Bitches!” She was Boris Oblomov´s Daughter after all.

She did not thank her late Father for many Things. That he had prepared her to endure such Situations was one of them though. Her Jaws hurt – and only now she realized she could use a fresh Diaper.

Ekaterina imagined Ragna´s smiling Face “I will be strong – for you!”

The Door opened. Steps came nearer. A face looked down at her “Awake, are we?”


Collogne-Bellerive, Canton Geneva:


Chris faced the assembled Team. It was 0800 AM. Anna suppressed a Groan and nursed a Cup of Coffee; Merit looked attentively at her Mistress “Another one?” The Russian shrugged “Go get it!” The Egyptian stood and went to fetch another Cup of Black and Strong. Ragna looked terrible. She sported a black Eye and Chris sensed how much self-control it cost the Icelandress not to scream and to snap.

Natasha did not look happy exactly either “She asks herself why she did not escort Ragna and Ekaterina in their Suite.” Chris felt Pity with the Russian – she would beat herself up for some time.

The Blonde shod a Glance at Hayley and Kirsty. Kirsty held her Wife firmly in her Arms. The Blonde was pale but had insisted on taking Part in the impromptu Meeting. She was visibly shaken after she had learned of the Attack on Ragna and Ekaterina.

Sarah McKenzie mustered Chris. She knew the Blonde well enough by now. One thing was sure: Elizabeth Crawford would rue the Day she had ordered that Attack. The Canadian turned to Chris “Has Sybil checked the Phone?” Chris smiled grimly “She has!” The Pianist paused “And come up with some interesting findings! Sybil if you may?”

The Brunette smiled “Of course Chris!” The Master Hacker faced the assembled Group “This is what I found out ….”


Unknown Location near Geneva, around 0800:


Ekaterina tried her best to keep her Nerves in Check. She had been let out of the Bags “Shower, put a fresh Diaper and a fresh Suit on! You have 30 Minutes!” Her Compatriot had ordered her. Now Boris Oblomov´s Daughter sat at the round Table and had Breakfast. It was continental and of decent Quality. Ekaterina laid the Cutlery aside. She had vowed to herself she would not cave in – the blonde Russian had a shrewd Idea of what this was all about.

The Door to her Cell swung open. A tall brown-haired Woman, wearing a grey Power Suit and matching Heels strode in. She was followed by the dark-haired Russian and the Redhead she knew too. Andrea was her Name.

Ekaterina did not bother to rise. The brown-haired Woman smiled at her “Mind if I take a Seat?” The Russian just stared back “My, are we in a bad Mood” Elizabeth Crawford chuckled. She turned to the other Women “Leave us alone for a Spell won´t you?” Again, that false smile. As soon as the two other Women had left Crawford´s Face grew hard “Let me tell you something, Ekaterina ….!”

“B*tch!” the Russian fumed silently “You will not intimidate me!”


Geneva, late Morning, a Park:


Katherine Haughton Beckett stepped out from under the Trees. Old Trees. She knew that Sarah McKenzie had her Back. The Detective focused on the tall Asian Woman stepping on the Clearing “So you have not come alone” The woman smiled “No, I have not” the Detective stated calmly “Considering our last Meeting, I thought some backup would be a good Idea!”

“Your distrust disappoints me” the Asian chuckled “But I understand you” Kate smiled mirthlessly “Do you!” The Detective shook her head “Why did you want to meet me? And only me?”

Captive 1016/8 chuckled “I thought you would never ask Kate!”

Kate looked back hard “Spare me the Bullshit!”

“Straight to the Point as always” Captive 1016/8 chuckled – Kate looked at her intently, the Scar was new – “Okay then Katie Waitie!” the Asian smiled. She knew that Kate hated that Nickname.


Unknown Location near Geneva later:


Ekaterina groaned into her Gag. She tethered on her tightly bound toes, which turned purple already. The Strappado was of the stringent sort: Her upper body was almost 90 Degrees to the Floor. Her Arms were almost ripped out of their Sockets.

The large Harness Ball Gag made her drool. She remembered the Conversation with Crawford “I am terribly sorry it had come to this” The Criminal had smiled “But if Chris von der Marwitz plays Ball this unpleasantness will not take long.”

Ekaterina just stared back “You can make this a bit easier on yourself” the Criminal continued pleasantly “Convince von der Marwitz to play Ball – and it is back in the Bags after a decent Dinner. What do you say?” Ekaterina shook her head “Who do you think you are? I would never condemn Hayley to be your Plaything!” Her Eyes drilled into Crawford´s “You are not that different from my Father! I know what he did to Christine von der Marwitz! Don´t expect me to help you!”

Crawford shook her Head exasperatedly, as if she was speaking with a Child “This will be on your Head then! Jelena!” She called “The Whip!”


Early Evening: The Arabesque:


Chris stepped over the Threshold of “The Arabesque” – one of the most famous Restaurants in Geneva. Crawford had called her “Be there at 0600 PM, you may bring a Friend!” The Criminal had hung up “Ragna are you up to this?” The Icelandress has insisted on coming along “I am Chris!” the Blonde had told her calmly.

“Don´t lose your temper!” Chris had admonished her Lady in Waiting sternly “I won´t” Ragna had returned calmly. Her left Eye was black by now. Chris sensed her steely resolve – and understood her Friend.

She would have reacted in the same Way.

If Crawford thought she could surprise them, play any silly Games with them? She would be in for a rude Surprise. Not that she knew that. The Maître approached them “Miss Crawford is awaiting you!” Chris smiled “Thank you, you are too kind!” Her French was free of any Accent.

She strode into the large Room. Chris felt Eyes resting on her. Many. The animated Chatter had fallen Silent. She had chosen an emerald, green Power Suit with matching Platform Sandals. The large green Emerald resting on her Breastbone felt warm. Elizabeth Crawford smiled benevolently at her “She is so full of herself” Chris mused.

Elizabeth Crawford was surprised. She had expected the Pianist to be nervous. Von der Marwitz obviously was not “The B*tch knows to command a Room” The Master Criminal had to admit grudgingly “She even smiles naturally!”

“Elizabeth!” The Blonde beamed at her “It is so good to see you!” Crawford rose walked around the Table and hugged Chris “You too! And you brought the lovely Ragna with you! Ekaterina loves you very much – but I guess you know that!”

Chris smiled “Ragna just could not resist coming along!”

The Pianist admired Ragna´s Self Discipline in that Moment “I just could not wait to see you!” The Icelandress smiled coldly.

“Why don´t you have a Seat?” Crawford grinned “You know Andrea?” The Criminal pointed at the Redhead at her left “Actually we have met!” Chris smiled as she took her Seat “Natasha and Sarah send her best!” Andrea flinched. The Blonde had scored a hit. The Red Head looked uneasy, with good Reason:

Tying the knot: Chapter 5 by Imhotep-Ra on DeviantArt

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“I may invite you to a fine Champagne- you prefer Pol Roger?” Their Host smiled “Carry on!” Chris smiled back. The Dinner was excellent she had to concede. Crawford wanted to play Games …...

After Desert, a mint-strawberry Sorbet, the Blonde laid her Cutlery aside, smiling “The Dinner was truly excellent Lizzie” Chris knew Crawford hated to be called “Lizzie” – but why did we meet today? Except that you abducted Ekaterina of Course?”

Chris knew she had scored a hit. Crawford had flinched slightly.

“You have something I want; I have something you want!” “Liz” chuckled “Do I?” Chris smiled back. Her face grew hard “Spare me the Trouble Lizzie, what do you want?” The Criminal chuckled “I thought you would never ask! It is simple in fact: You convince Hayley and Kirsty to come back to Mystery Island and Ekaterina” She smiled at Ragna “Ekaterina will come home – unharmed, when Hayley and Kirsty have settled in!”

Chris chuckled mirthlessly “Hayley is barely healed – and you expect me to send her back to the Person who tried to murder her- twice? Think again!”

The Pianist paused – her Eyes hard and cold: “If you really believe Hayley will love you one day, you are sorely mistaken. You may possess her Body – but you will never possess Hayley´s Soul.”

Chris added, “If I agree to your Terms.”

Crawford had the Grace to blush slightly. Chris had to give her that “I guarantee Hayley will get the best Care!” The Pianist´s Eyes grew hard and cold “You tried to kill Hayley twice. Why should I believe you, why should Hayley and Kirsty believe you, you of all People?”

Now Crawford grew cold “You have no Choice. Convince Hayley and Kirsty or Ekaterina suffers!”

The Pianist was not impressed at all, Crawford could tell “Crawford you have no Idea what Suffering really means – I can give you a refresher Course though if you insist.”

The Blonde smiled – her green Eyes cold as Ice.

Chris's Phone signaled an incoming Call. The Blonde looked at the Screen and smiled – Crawford sensed imminent Danger – The Pianist continued “I think, Lizzie, you should consider your Position! I forwarded you a Message!” Her smile broadened “You might find it illuminating!”

Crawford opened the Message – and froze: She looked at the first Picture. Yelena´s Eyes were wide. Her Breast was covered in Blood. She was dead. Hit by several precise Shots in the Breast. The Hits grouped close together. With trembling fingers, she opened the next Picture: Ekaterina Oblomova was smiling at her. Tired – and bruised. But she smiled. And was alive. Giving her the Middle Finger. She mouthed a “F*ck you!”

Crawford looked up and stared at Christine von der Marwitz's smiling face.

“You played me!” the Master Criminal hissed accusingly:

“The shocked-and-shaken-Part does not suit you, Lizzie!” The Pianist smiled cooly “Listen Elizabeth” the Blonde spoke calmly “Your Scheme backfired” What happened next, happened so quickly a human eye could not follow. Chris grabbed Elizabeth´s left hand and pressed a point between her left thumb and her index finger, with her right index Finger.

The Criminal felt an incredibly sharp Pain. The Pianist pressed more firmly “Listen very carefully Elizabeth!” Crawford could not do anything but stare wild-eyed in those emerald, green eyes “Get on your Plane. Leave! And do never return! If you are still here in one hour? Europol will have a field day! You will rot in Jail!”

Now the Pianist smiled “To give you something to remember me by……” Chris pressed with incredible Force “I smashed just the nerve Cluster. Two Fingers will be stiff from now on!”

The Criminal had to do her best to suppress a Scream.

Chris let go and rose “Ragna, we go!”

Crawford was lost for Words. She stared after the two Blondes. Suddenly von der Marwitz whirled around, a swift movement of her right Wrist. With a soft Thud something embedded next to Elizabeth´s right Ear – into the Chair´s High Back. At first, the Criminal felt no Pain – before she realized what the Pianist had done:

The Blonde had hurled a Shuriken at Crawford – and nailed her right Earlobe to the Chair´s High-Back. Chris von der Marwitz did not even bother to turn back. With long purposeful Strides, she left the Room, Ragna at her left.

The Icelandress though looked back above her left Shoulder – a cold Smile curling her Lips.

“Andrea!” Crawford hissed “Get that damned thing out!” A wave of hot Hate surged through her Veins. She had lost again – but how could the Pianist have known ….

A cold Fist gripped her heart:

That should just not be. It just simply couldn´t ….


Unknown Location near Geneva – three Hours before:


Darkness. Silence. Pain. These were the three Sensations Ekaterina Anushka Oblomova felt right now. None of those Sensations she experienced voluntarily. Her butt, her back, her Soles burned. At least the massive down-filled Bags which held her in their tight unyielding Embrace made lying on her sore back and butt bearable.

Ekaterina was no Wimp. Her Father, the late Boris Oblomov, had her treated like a Man. She had trained like an Athlete in any Weather. Heat and Cold. After her first Session in the Dungeon, she had hoped to spend the Time after Dinner in the Bags. She had been wrong. She had been chloroformed as soon as she had finished her Meal, which had been good. A Chili con Carne. A hot one.


When had she come around again? The Blonde had been in the Dungeon again. Tied to a Bench in a sitting Strappado. Two Bricks under her Ankles – which put a massive strain on her leg Muscles.

Her big Toes had been tied together and tied back to her Ankles. Jelena had delivered an expert Bastinado on her nyloned Soles. This Time the blonde Russian had enjoyed the enforced Napp. When she awoke, she had been in the Bags again. Ekaterina racked her Brains. What had happened to Ragna? Was she well? Had she been rescued?

Ekaterina strained against the Cocoon which held her in an anaconda-like Embrace. What gave her Strength? Her hot Hate for her Compatriot: Jelena was vicious. Hayley and Kirsty had told her as much.

But something had changed: The Briton and the American had explained that Crawford´s People handled their Captives strictly professionally. Did not treat them to Torture. That definitely had changed.

The Russian drifted off into an uneasy sleep. The Tears she did not mind …


Collogne-Bellerive, Canton Geneva, two Hours before the Meeting with Crawford:


The Team had assembled. Chris looked sternly from one to the other “We proceed as planned! Birte and Kirsty will keep the Fort and guard Hayley. Sybil will coordinate the Communications!” Kirsty seemed not entirely pleased, nodded – but remained silent: The Pianist knew sitting still on her Hands was something, Crawford's former Second-in-Command was not used to. Leaving Hayley out of her Eyes was also not an Option.

The Blonde looked kindly at her Lady-in-Waiting “You are sure you will come with me? I would understand if meeting Crawford Face to Face right would be too much now. I am not sure I could do it.” Ragna shrugged “But you would do it nevertheless” Chris nodded calmly “I would – just do not do anything rash. Before we get the Signal.”

The herculean Icelandress smiled now “You know me. I won´t.”

“Right,” Chris smiled back “You” She faced Sarah, Anna, Natasha, Kate, and Sophie “Will proceed according to Plan! Shock and awe is the Motto – but avoid unnecessary killings!” The Black Lady smiled mischievously “You know us!” The Pianist smiled “I know you, and that´s why these are the Rules of Engagement!” The Thief pouted “I am hurt” “You will get over it!” Chris said firmly “Killing Shots only if Ekaterina´s or your Lives are in Danger!”

Natasha sighed “At Times you are a real Spoilsport Chris!”

The Blonde smiled “Some Things cannot be helped!”

She turned to the assembled Team again: You know your Tasks – get ready!” The Blonde turned on her Heels and left the Room.

“She takes this personally” Anna stated, “She does!” the Canadian nodded “But one thing is for sure! This will be fun!”

Elizabeth Crawford was totally unaware that a Storm was brewing. A Hurricane. Had she seen Chris´ Face in this Moment, she would have frozen to Ice. But she did not know. After all, she knew. She had all Corners covered. And she had an Asset her Opponents did not know about:

Captive 1016/8.


Unknown Location near Geneva – one Hour before the Meeting with Crawford:


Anna had chosen a perfect Spot: A small knoll – from its Crest she had an unobstructed View at the Villa, Crawford had selected as Base, and its Compound. The Russian peered through the Night Vision Scope of her Barret MK 107. Caliber 12,7 Millimetres loaded with armour-piercing Rounds. She had decided for this Rifle and Ammunition to be on the safe Side. If she had to take a shot through bullet-proof Windows this was the right Choice.

Lowly she spoke through her Mike “The Guards have changed; you have 15 Minutes!” Anna could have taken out the Guards at this Distance easily. But Chris´ Orders had been clear. Now the Rescue Team had 15 Minutes to penetrate the Perimeter.

The Violinist grinned “Crawford has covered many Angles but not all ….” Anna concentrated on the Villa again. If the Guards only knew that Death was only a split of a second away. But like Chris, she despised unnecessary Killings. Crawford, the Russian would take out without hesitation. One of the four Guards? Not without good Reason. If anyone would make a move at Ekaterina though … all bets would be off ….

Sarah McKenzie stood before the old and rusty Door that blocked the Entrance to the old Aqueduct. Natasha stood behind her, Sophie and Kate Beckett brought up the rear. The Thief had to smile. This was her Game: Pick Locks. That one was a bit stubborn. Finally, it gave way. To her surprise, the centuries-old Door did not creek.

Anna had given them the get-go. Sybil had found out that an old Tunnel led from the Park outside the Compound almost to the Villa´s Frontgate “Nobody is perfect” the Thief smiled as they hurried through the Tunnel. Eager to get back at Hayley and Kirsty Crawford had overlooked something small – but crucial.

Anna looked at her Watch: Five Minutes to the next Changing of the Guards “You have no Idea!” the Russian smiled grimly. Elizabeth Crawford had still no Idea what would hit her. She peered through the Scope. If necessary, she would intervene. But that would be the last Choice. Anna checked Distance and Wind: 200 Metres and six Kilometres p/H from the West. Nothing she could not handle.

At the Orkney´s during the Hunt for the Lost Scrolls? The Conditions had been much more difficult:

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Anna waited. Her finger at the Trigger.

It would not need much pressure to unleash Hell.

Minutes later:

Vernie shuddered. It was not exactly cold. But she was uneasy. After the failed Mission to spoil the Wedding? She and her fellow Teammates had spent several Weeks in the Restraining Bags. At some point, Crawford had decided it had been Punishment enough. Ever since it had been Guard Duty on the Island. Boring and monotonous. That the Boss entrusted them with this Mission had come as a surprise.

So far all had gone well: They had captured the Russian. Now they were waiting. Their Orders were clear: To hinder any rescue Mission, von der Marwitz and her People might launch. Vernie was on Edge. She had a certain Idea of what the Pianist and her Team were capable of if challenged. The brown-haired Woman would not tell her Boss that, but she was sure, Crawford still underestimated the Blonde.

It was the End of September, and the Evenings in the Alps were already chilly. Even her long downfilled Coat did not keep her entirely warm. Her feet were cold despite the thick woollen Socks and the Ankle Boots “I am simply not used to the Northern Climate” she sighed. The Night was calm. Except for the usual Sounds of the Night. Vernie listened intently: Had there been a Sound? Is someone stepping on a Twig?

She listened intently. But there was only Silence. The dark figure before her emerged out of nowhere. Entirely clad in Black. Before the Tranquilizer Dart hit her? She realized: “I know!” her. Unconscious she scrambled to the floor.

“You have 15 Minutes!” Anna´s Voice whispered in Natasha´s Earpiece. The Russian set to work. Quickly she padded the Woman down and stripped her of her Coat. Shoes and Socks went next. Natasha smiled “For the Socks we will have use!”

“Don´t tarry along!” Sarah McKenzie whispered, “I won´t!” the Russian whispered back. Quickly she zip-tied the unconscious Woman. The Hogtie was very tight. “They are really smelly!” Natasha thought to herself as she pushed the grey and thick woollen Socks into Vernie´s Mouth.

“You have two Minutes!” Anna whispered “Right!” Sarah nodded. The Canadian gestured to her Teammates. Natasha left the hogtied Vernie lying on the stony Floor and vanished into the Darkness. Kate and Sophie had already melted with the Shadows.

The other Guard was in for a Surprise ….






Inside the Villa: Ekaterina´s cell later:


“Awake Precious?” Jelena teased her. Ekaterina just stared back. She was tired. She was angry. Her Jaws hurt. She needed a Diaper Change “We will have some more fun later till the Boss returns!” Her Compatriot grinned ominously “She gave me some license to treat you according to your Status! You and I will have lots of fun in the next Weeks!”

Ekaterina stared back.

The Opening of the Door startled Jelena. She wheeled around and stared into the Muzzle of a Gun – aiming straight at her Chest. Natasha Bolkonskaya looked at her coldly “You make a Move at Ekaterina it will be your very last!”

Bolkonskaya radiated Menace in Waves. She had a certain Reputation in some Circles. That she had taken over the Post as Ekaterina Oblomova´s Chief of Security had been a Surprise. To some.

Since then, two Years ago, nobody had dared to touch the Daughter of the late Oligarch, Boris Oblomov. On two Occasions the Russian had made clear her Charge and her Mother were not to be touched. Very clear.

Her Boss had forwarded the Intel to Jelena and the Team:

The Russian was torn. Crawford had charged her with taking Care of Ekaterina Oblomova. Her Orders had been clear “If someone tries to free her? Kill her!” On the other Hand, she stared into the Muzzle of a Glock. It did not waver. Would she be fast enough? Pulling her Gun? Taking out Bolkonskaya and her Charge. Jelena was fast, very fast:

Her left Hand glided down.

Ekaterina had heard Natasha´s Voice – and relaxed. Three Shots rang out. In quick Succession. A body crashed to the Floor. The Russian grew anxious. Who had been hit, who had been shot? She fidgeted in her Cocoon.

A face appeared in her limited Field of Vision:

Natasha smiled at her “Couldn´t leave you alone for a second!”

Ekaterina mumbled something in her Gag.

Natasha chuckled “You didn´t say F*ck you right? Ragna would kick my Ass if I tried!” Her Compatriot rolled her Eyes.

“Let us get you out of this!” Natasha grinned and pulled the Zipper of the first Gargantuan Bag down. Ekaterina sighed in relief as the Pressure on her Body receded.

She had been rescued. It had been a wild Ride.


On the Way to a private Airport outside Geneva:


Andrea risked a Glance at her Boss. Crawford was fuming “What do you stare at me? Look at the Street!” The Redhead concentrated on the Road. The Scene at the Restaurant had been surreal:

At first, Elizabeth Crawford had been struck dumb. Before she realized what the Pianist had done “Get that Thing out of my Ear!” she had hissed between clenched Teeth “And don´t rip my Ear off, mind you!” Andrea had done her best. She would not tell her Boss, but she was impressed by the Pianist´s Marksmanship: The Shuriken had nailed the Earlobe precisely to the Chair´s High Back.

After the Deed was done, the Master Criminal had almost stormed out of the Restaurant. The Maître reminded her discreetly that the Bill was still to be paid. He had been professional; he had not shrunken back from Crawford´s fury.

They were near the Private Airport “Leave me there and meet the Rest of the Team at the Extraction Point!” Crawford's Voice was cold and flat.

“Of Course, Mum!” Andrea nodded, keeping her Eyes on the Track. Elizabeth Crawford was a hard and demanding Boss. But since the failed Attempt on Hayley King, she had been of the Rocker “She has lost her Marbles” the Red Head mused.

Cool and controlled normally Crawford lost her Temper easily now. Andrea had been grateful to be left out of the Bags and to resume Guard Duty – but that Mission they were on right now?

The Pianist had caught her Off Guard. That Chris von der Marwitz would thwart her Plans again? Crawford had not expected that. Andrea had watched as her Boss´ Expression changed abruptly as she scanned the Pictures the Pianist had sent her. From Triumph to Consternation to Hate. Von der Marwitz had given her not much time to gather her Wits:

The tall Blonde had stood. Turned on her Heels and left – and turned a final Time …. Andrea had found Ragna, the herculean Icelandress even more creepy. Her black left Eye made her look sinister. She had said no Word as von der Marwitz and Crawford had talked – but the Way she looked? It would have made an Ice Bear shiver.

Andrea concentrated on the Road. They passed the Security Gate at the Airport without a Hitch. Crawford loosened her Safety Belt “Remember Andrea! Bring the Car back and meet with the Rest of the Team!” Crawford got out of the Car without turning back and strode to the Gangway.

Andrea turned the Car and left.


Elizabeth Crawford´s Private Jet, Minutes later:


Elizabeth´s posh black Valentino 110 High Heels hammered the Gangway´s Stairs. She fumed. Had the Pianist played her? Again. She did not know how. The Blonde did not make empty Threads though. That much she knew. And she had an Idea. That it could not have been possible she knew. But there was no other possibility when you eliminated the impossible.

She stormed into the Cabin. Captive 1016/8 smiled at her. The Asian seemed to be very satisfied. In her right Hand, she held a Beretta 92 – pointed at Crawford´s Heart “Things did not go as planned” she chuckled “Elizabeth!”

“You!” Crawford fumed “You betrayed me!” Alecto chuckled “What gives you that Impression? You are labouring under some sort of Illusion” The Asian smiled broader “I do not owe you any Allegiance – none at all. Your Offer was a Possibility to get out of that Dungeon. Nothing more. Nothing less.” She paused “I owe you for those four Months in Hell – and the Scar. And I always pay my debt.”

The tall Asian added – almost in an afterthought:

“You remember the Tale of the Scorpion and the Frog?”

“What?” Crawford was lost for Words.

“It is in my Nature” the Asian quoted.

Alekto pulled the Trigger.

Three Times.

The last Thing Elizabeth Crawford felt. Ever would feel? Was a Sledgehammer which hit her Chest.

Two Minutes later a tall Woman with Asian Features left the Plane. She strode away with purposeful long strides. A smile curled her lips.

She vanished into the Dark as she had never been there.

Another Minute later Elizabeth Crawford´s Jet disintegrated into a Gulf of Flames.


Around the same Time: Villa Oblomova:


On Natasha´s Recommendation, Ekaterina had refurbished one of the two Living Rooms of the 19th Century Villa. Now it served as the Communication Center. Her Security Chief had also counselled whom to trust with the highly sensitive Work. Some of the Contractors had Connections to the State of Israel´s Défense Industry – Boris Oblomov’s many Contacts had proved useful. It had been one of the Situations when Ekaterina had chosen not to ask too many questions.

The Room´s Western Wall was occupied by one massive LED Screen, which showed a digital Map of the Region around Geneva. Hayley lay on a comfortable Recliner, Kirsty on her Right. Sybil sat behind her many Screens, her fingers flowing about her Keyboards. Birte Ricciarelli stood in the right Corner, from where she had an unobstructed View.

“I hate sitting on my Hands!” Kirsty muttered. Hayley smiled: That Kirsty loved to be in the thickest of Melees was no Secret. The Blonde laid her right Hand on her Wife´s left “I know, but everything is all right: Ekaterina is free, and Crawford is gone for good!” “That´s the Point” Kirsty huffed “She got away!” Hayley was about to respond when simultaneously two Panels popped off on the Screen: Sarah McKenzie on the left, Chris on the right “Hi there!” the Blonde smiled, we are on our Way our Back – TOA in 15 Minutes!”

The Black Lady seconded “We clear some Things up here and return then to Base too – TOA in 60 Minutes!” “Don´t burn down the House!” Chris´ smiled “We won´t!” The Canadian smiled! Over and out!”

The two Panels grew dark.


Unknown Location near Geneva:


“Doesn´t she look cute?” Sarah McKenzie chuckled “She does!” Anna smiled “Good job!” Vernie did not react. She stood in the Villa´s Entrance Hall, strapped to Bra and Panties, Balancing on the Balls of her Feet: The Canadian had tied her in a tight standing Spreadeagle. Going down on her Heels was impossible. Moving her Head too: The Thief had tied her braided brown hair to the Ceiling.

Since she had regained Consciousness Crawford´s Senior Operative tried to come to Terms with her Predicament: She had been blindfolded, panty-hooded – a stocking Cap had been pulled over her head. Vernie had deduced that she had been gagged with her Socks and something more. Earbuds blended any Sound out. The Vibrator in her Vagina buzzed with rising intensity.

Two sharp Slaps on her Butt made her jump and mewl in her Gag.

Sarah grinned “What did you do with the other two?” Anna grinned “Perrie enjoys a nice standing Strappado in the Library, Teihani we hogtied on the Billiard Table!” The Canadian smiled “Where is Ekaterina?” “Freshening up and dressing – we found her some clothing and Toiletries!” Natasha said, “I really would have liked to have fun with that Jelena-B*tch! She got the quick exit!”

“That cannot be helped” Ekaterina stepped down the curved Stairwell. The Russian moved carefully; her compatriot noticed. Sophie and Kate guarding her: The American formed the Van, the Lawyer the Rear. Both had their Glock´s at the Ready, their Assault Rifles shouldered.

Natasha eyed her Boss critically. She had seen Ekaterina´s Butt and Back. The Blonde winced as she was freed from the Bags and put her Feet on the Floor “Bastinado” Ekaterina pointed at Jelena´s Corpse “She hit pretty hard”

They had found Ekaterina some fitting Clothes: A pair of dark blue Slacks, a white Blouse, and a moss-green Pullover. The shiny brown Ankle Boots were a tad too small, but they would do. The down-filled blue Barbour Jacket fitted well.

The Russian pointed at the tied-up Vernie “What do we do with them?” “Simple” The Canadian smiled “We drive back to Base and inform the Police later. Till then they will have some fun!”

“What is with Crawford?” Sophie ventured “We will see!” The Black Lady exchanged a knowing look with Kate Beckett. The Detective and the Thief had talked not much about their Meeting with the Informant – who had provided them with the Intel about Crawford´s Lair ….

Doctor Sophie Reichenbach´s Lawyer´s Brain analyzed the Facts and came to one Conclusion: There was something off …. Kate Beckett and The Black Lady told them not all. And Sophie suspected that Chris was in the know too.


Later:


Ragna´s and Ekaterina´s Reunion had been tearful. The Icelandress had hugged the Russian tightly. Ekaterina winced as Ragna touched her sore butt and back “It is nothing” the blonde Russian demurred “Your Eye it looks really ugly! Does it hurt much?” Ragna huffed “It will hurt much less when I kick this Bitches Ass!”

Now, after Dinner they had retreated to the large Living Room: Chris´ sat at the Piano and played Chopin, perfectly untroubled by what was happening around her… Anna and Merit were talking animatedly. Sarah McKenzie conversed with Natasha Bolkonskaya.

The tranquil Mood was suddenly disrupted by Sybil charging into the Room “There is something you must see! Come to the Communications Center. The Atmosphere suddenly changed: Chris stopped playing and got up “Right, let´s go then!”

10 Minutes later the Group watched at the large Screen – on it read “Incoming Transmission in two Minutes.” Again, Sophie noticed a quick exchange between Kate, Sarah, and Chris. The Transmission started:

The Face of an Asian Woman filled the Screen, she was sitting in an Armchair on a Private Jet. The Lawyer registered the Scar on her right Cheek. Cool, keen grey Eyes looked at them. An ironic Smile curled her lips. Captive 1016/8 obviously had much fun.

“Hello Altogether! We did not all have the pleasure to meet personally, except Captain Beckett!” she smiled “I and the Detective know each other intimately” Sophie shot a Glance at Kate: The seasoned Police Officer blushed deeply “Anyway” The Asian continued “You probably wonder if Elizabeth Crawford has left Swiss!” She chuckled “It is so much fun to see all the little Wheels turning in your Head!”

She grew serious “Elizabeth Crawford has left – not only Swiss, but this World for good. She will never be a Threat to Hayley and Kirsty or anyone else!” Kirsty cleared her Throat – and you can prove that?”

Captive 1016/8 – or as Kate Beckett knew? Alecto – smiled coldly “I understand that you demand Proof, you of all People: Watch!”

The Screen changed and a Recording appeared on the Screen: It was a Recording of what had happened at Crawford´s Jet, two Hours earlier. After the Transmission ended, Silence filled the Room. Alecto´s smiling face appeared again on the Screen “I guess, that should suffice as Proof! It was a pleasure to meet you – and I am looking forward to seeing our formidable Detective again. Soon!”

The Screen turned black.

All Eyes turned to Kate, who blushed again.

“I struck a Deal, to save Ekaterina,” she said finally “That is all what I will say!”

“Well,” Chris smiled knowingly “Then let us leave it at that and return to the Living Room, I have something to tell you, a pleasant surprise …...”


The Hamptons, Bernstein Manor, a few Days later:


It was early Evening at the Hamptons. A warm Evening End of September. Chris stepped on the still Warm Tiles of the Western Patio to the Bannister. The expensive Terracotta Tiles felt warm under her bare feet. She had kicked off her Valentino Wedge Sandals for Comfort. Her light blue Natan Couture Summerdress swirled around her toned Calves and left her Shoulders bare.

The Blonde turned to the right – and had to smile:

There were lots of animated Chatter – and tangy Smells in the Air, Laughter, and the Clanking of Glasses. The Surprise she had to tell the other about? Rachel and Kate had pulled a few Strings “I convinced Castle to invite his Poker round for a Sailing Trip in the Bahamas, so Bernstein Manor is available” The Detective smiled mischievously at Kirsty and Hayley “We, as Rachel and I thought it would be a nice Idea to wrap things up where you tied the Knot” Kate paused “After all the Turmoil of the last two Months? A few Day´s at the Hampton´s could not hurt.”

“I pulled a few Strings!” Rachel added, the Heiress smiled mischievously “Neither Europol nor the NYPD has any objections that Captain Beckett and Kriminalhauptkommissarin Birte Ricciarelli take a few Days off – and” The Blonde turned to Birte “Well informed Sources told me, there might be a Promotion in the Cards for you, for the joint Operation which put an End to Elizabeth Crawford´s Network …”

Birte Ricciarelli had blushed and muttered something. A Promotion?

Chris had to smile. The Look of Consternation on Birte´s Face had been priceless. If she thought back to their first Meeting one Year ago? Who had thought the tenacious Cop would become Part of the close-knitted Circle of People Chris called Friends?

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The Blonde took a Sip of her fine Rosé of French Origin and peered down at the Beach: Two Women were walking in the Surf, their Shoes in Hand. The Blonde laughed her Bell Like Laugh.

It was good to hear Hayley laugh. Kirsty and Hayley had finally not only tied the Knot but could live their Life without having to look over their Shoulders. Now, after Crawford was gone. As Birte had informed them, the Forensics had confirmed that the scarred remains of the badly burned Body which had been found in the burned-out Husk of Crawford´s Jet belonged to Elizabeth Crawford.

She had been shot. Three close-grouped Shots to the Chest. Confirming what they had seen on the Video Footage, provided by Alecto. Chris was curious about what Deal the Criminal had struck with Alecto. The Pianist had a shrewd Guess though: It had to do something with the previous Encounter of Beckett and Alecto … but Kate had refused to share any Details ….

The Blonde smiled. They would learn soon enough ….

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“Anna, I heard you!” The Pianist grinned without turning around. The Russian joined her best Friend, and they clanked Glasses, enjoying companionable Silence. Soft Footsteps came nearer “Kate, I heard you!” now it was Anna´s turn to smile.

“You know what?” The Detective huffed “That you and Chris hear every- and anything!” Chris could tell though, Kate was not really angry, she turned to Beckett “Why don´t you tell us about the Deal you struck with Alecto?” The Pianist smiled innocently “Our Lips are sealed!” Anna seconded; you know me!”

“Exactly” Kate could not hide the smile in her Voice completely “I know you Anna Alexandrova Romanova, and so I will say nothing!”

“I am hurt!” Anna pouted “Well” Chris interrupted “That cannot be helped then!” She smiled and pointed down at the Beach, where Kirsty and Hayley were still standing in the Surf “What do you think about a Toast?” She raised her Glass “To the tied knot!”

“To the tied knot!” Kate and Anna responded.


Later in the Night: Kirsty´s and Hayley´s Suite:


Kirsty lay comfortably reclined on the Sounds filling the Air, the Scents, the cool Linen of their King Size Bed. There were the Sounds of the Sea, the Breakers softly rolling against the Beach. The tangy Scent of the Sea, the Screeching of the occasional Seabird. The eternal rhythm of the Breakers had something calming. Not that the Briton needed calming down at all. The Sounds and Smells reminded her of her Childhood of Norfolk´s long Beaches. One of the few pleasant Memories of her Childhood.

She smelled the Fragrance of the Incense and heard the cackling of the Flames. Hayley had lighted lots of Candles of different Size and Colour – and the loveliest Sound of all? Kirsty heard Hayley singing to herself, softly – and astoundingly accurate: Moon River! The Melody of their First Dance at the Wedding here at the Hamptons, at Bernstein Manor. One of the many Moments of these Days in May she would never forget.

So much had happened since May. And now, they were here again. Full Circle. Not being able to move, to see had something Kirsty mused. Anything was so much more intense. Hayley had spreadeagled with four silken Scarves on their Bed; another Shawl blindfolded her. The Woman from rural Norfolk was naked, except for her burgundy red Panties. Of course, Hayley had tied a Crotch Scarf.

The Gag was mouth-filling as it should: Three Pairs of Panties Kirsty had counted. All ripe. Another Scarf covered her Face from Nose to Chin. Above that first Layer, several more followed: Gauze and more Scarves. Hayley had tested the Effectiveness of the Gag and bit Kirsty playfully on her left Nipple.

Inside the Bathroom, Hayley stood before the large Mirror. She had applied fresh Makeup and Perfume at strategic Places. At the Moment she wore a Pair of Sapphire Blue Panties and Nude Hose only. Above her left and between her Breasts were several thin red Lines. They stood out against her sun-tanned Skin. Absentmindedly she touched the Scars. It did not hurt, they felt smooth to the touch.

The American had always admired Anna for wearing her Scars openly “I will do the same!” Hayley decided “They remind me of the most beautiful and the most harrowing Moments of my Life!” Elizabeth Crawford was dead – and Hayley was surprised that right now she felt nothing when she thought of the Criminal Mastermind, who had influenced hers and Kirsty´s Life in so many ways. Resolutely she pulled her sapphire Blue Negligée above her Head. Of course, she wore no Bra. She was sure she would lose the Garment soon anyway.

She blew her Mirror Image a Kiss and stepped into their Bedroom – and took the Sight of her Wife in The long muscular legs, the full breasts.

This was the first time since the Bombing they would play. They had seldom made love since the Bombing only tender and carefully. And of course, they had not played the Games they loved so much. Dr. Meyers made the risks very clear. But after her latest check-up two days ago, he gave her the green light.

Hayley´s direct Approach had made him blush a bit. The Blonde sauntered to Bed after she had changed the Music.

Kirsty listened intently, listened to the soft footfalls of stockinged Feet. Hayley said nothing. Her Wife smelled the heavy Perfume as the Blonde mounted the Bed, knelt between Kirsty´s splayed legs. She sensed the Warmth of Hayley´s Body as she bowed down. Shudders of Exaltation shut through Kirsty´s hypersensitive Nerves as Hayley´s Lips closed around her left Nipple and lingered there. Stopped. Then the right one. Repeatedly.

Hayley cupped her Breasts, and squeezed them, gently. Kirsty could not see it, but the curvaceous Blonde took two Ice cubes, each in one Hand – and touched the Briton's hard Nipples with one. Let the fast-melting Cubes glide in circular motions around the Base of Kirsty´s Breasts.

Now Hayley straddled her Wife and pulled her Negligee above her Head, let it fall on Kirsty´s Nose and bowed down, till the Nipples of her Breasts touched those of the Briton, rubbed them against Kirsty´s ….

Kirsty grated her Hips, and moaned “We have all the Time in the World” Hayley whispered “We tied the Knot!”

It would be a long Night … that was for sure!


THE END of TYING THE KNOT

[Nainur]

aaaawww, even if I not felt to comment very often - my fault only and shame on me - at least I can write it was a very special tale, entertaining me very much. I like to point out the sceneries and locations, and the detailed story-telling never failed to keep me going. This is a bunch of very special characters, you have created!

[wolfman]

A perfect end to a wonderfully realised tale.

Crawford has been a thorn in the heroes side for too long and it is about tine she was dealt with. I have to say i like the decision to see her end at the hands of a potential new long tern villain.

Really excellent story telling my friend.

[mrjones2009]

I wondered if Elizabeth Crawford would get away but it was not to be. That is one woman the gang and Hayley in particular will never have to worry about again.

An explosive ending to another great entry into this series.

Keep on writing my friend!

[Ringo16885]

Awesome detail in stories

[Caesar73]

Awesome detail in stories

Thank you! If you haven´t done so already: Check out the previous Chapters.

As we learn in this Chapter Kate Beckett struck a Deal with her Nemesis to save Ekaterina. Beckett refused to tell her Friends what Deal she struck with Alecto. We will learn at some point in the Future what that Deal is: "Kate Beckett and the Mystery of Fantasy Island"

[RopeBunny]

I'm sorry to post so late, having not posted after every chapter.

A busy life, and at times I've read them in multiple. As with now.

And. Wow. Perfect and brilliant, all the way through this, it's the detail I've enjoyed the most, such good descriptions in each and every part, the people and the locations.

So many interesting interactions.

Twisting and turning, kept me wondering whether things would happen, would plans come to fruition or be spotted and countered.

A great story.