From the Files of Art Inc.: Chris von der Marwitz and the lost Mozart, Epilogue II, 250525 (FF/FFF)

[AlexUSA3]

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

[LunaDog]

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

[Caesar73]

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

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

[Caesar73]

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

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

The Files of Art. Inc.:


Chris von der Marwitz and the lost Partiture


Epilogue I


“Allegro et da Capo al Fine”



Salzburg, one Week later, Mid-November:


Around 1100 AM:

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

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

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

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


But the Star of the Show had been Esme.


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


The Rektor´s Office:


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chris:


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

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

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

He has no Idea.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chris smiles cooly:

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

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

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

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

The Pianist is not impressed:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



The Pianist´s melodious Alto Voice breaks the Spell:

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

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

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

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

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


The Rector´s Office:


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

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

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

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

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

I look at the Revolver … it is fully loaded.


Two Hours later:


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

National Media report some News:

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


Ettal:

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

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

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

The Music Teacher is curious: What Friend?

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


The Present:


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

Esme stares into the Fireplace´s Flames …

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

“Thank you, Charlotte!” Esme smiles.

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

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

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


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

[Caesar73]

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

The Files of Art. Inc.:


Chris von der Marwitz and the lost Partiture


Epilogue II


“Allegro et da Capo al Fine”


Early April:


A secluded Valley in the Austrian Alps, near the Brenner:


Around 0600 AM:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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

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


Esme:


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


The Adlernest, 1230 PM:


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

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

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

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

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

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


On the Road to the Adlernest: Late Afternoon:


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The other Car:


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yes, tomorrow will be a good Day!


The Adlernest: Concert Hall, around the same Time


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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


Later in the Evening, Dinner:


Esme:

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

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

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

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

Chris:


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

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


The Evening:


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


Another Suite around the same Time:


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

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

Esme:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And it is still young ….


In the West Wing:


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

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

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

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

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

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


Ragna´s and Ekaterina´s Suite:



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


There are other Ways to relax.


Kirsty´s and Hayley´s Suite:


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But it is the Present that Matters.


Somewhere else in the Palace, one Hour earlier:


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

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

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

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

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


Thirty Minutes later:


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

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


Evie:

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

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

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

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

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


In Palace´s Dungeons:



Merit:


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

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

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


Thirty Minutes later:


Anna:

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

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

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

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

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

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


 


Chris´ Apartment around the same Time:


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

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

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

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

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


Somewhere, sometime on Board of a Gulfstream Jet:


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

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

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

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

The other Man nods: “They don´t!”


Epilogue II, the End.

[Jenny_S]

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

[Caesar73]

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

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

[Caesar73]

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