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The Files of Art. Inc.:
“Hayley King, Kirsty Garrett, Kate Beckett and the Morpheus Formula”
Location: New York, August
Chapter 3
The previous Evening:
Manhattan: Parking Garage
Kate Beckett´s grey Aquazura open-toed Platform Pumps clicked eerily loud on the Tarmac in the Parking Garage. The Detective had hoped for a quiet Evening on the Couch, after a long Soak in the Bathtub.
But the Commissioner had different Plans … so the Captain had refreshed, changed into a wide-legged grey Powersuit by Max Mara, a white Blouse, stepped into her Heels, and left the Penthouse she shared with Castle.
Kate opened her black Lexus ES and put the Safety Belt on. She was tempted to kick her Heels off and drive in stockinged Feet. Of Course, she did not follow that Impulse. Career Officer, she was.
The Movement behind her, she did register too late: A sickly sweet-smelling Cloth was pressed over her Face with brutal Strength. Kate´s undoing was the Safety Belt, which impeded her Movements. Another Arm pressed her upper Body in her Seat with an iron Grip ….
Beckett had already inhaled too much of the potent Drug. Her Fingers and Toes were already tingling. But Kate Beckett would never go down without a fight. She struggled. First flew the left Heel, then the right one.
Her Field of Vision narrowed. Desperately, she held her Breath, but she had to breathe! The Arm around her upper Body pressed against her Diaphragm. She had to breathe! And inhaled another strong Dose of Chloroform. Kate had some Experience with the Drug. Something was different. A different Brand. Finally, she fell into the bottomless Abyss … her Eyes rolled back in her Head.
Her Attacker pressed the Cloth for two Minutes longer over her Face.
A short while later, two black clad Figures carried the unconscious Detective to a black nondescript Van. Inside, they stripped Beckett down to her grey Bra and Panties and nude Hose.
One of the Attackers gagged the Detective with a heavily padded Panel Gag. The other Attacker tied Beckett with padded leather Straps, after she had shackled and mitted Kate´s Hands and Wrists and shackled her Ankles. Ten Straps, from above her Breast down to her nyloned big Toes.
Working together, Beckett´s Attackers manhandled her Body in a heavily padded Mummy Sleeping Sack Contraption. They strapped the Brunette to a Bench. The taller Attacker produced a Syringe and injected Kate with a Drug Cocktail.
“Pleasant Dreams!” the black clad Criminal chuckled maliciously.
Five Minutes later, the Van left the Parking Garage.
What was left of Kate were her grey High Heels. And the Smell of Chloroform in the Air.
The next Day:
Unknown Location: Josephine´s Office, 0730 AM:
Again, Doctor Sophia Mabuse sat in Josephine´s Office before the latter´s Desk. But there were remarkable Differences: Sophia sat in a comfy Chair, was not restrained and strapped into a Wheelchair, wore no down-filled Suit and a Diaper, but her “Work Uniform”:
A severe cut white Blouse, a black Pencil Skirt, nude Hose, shiny black Jimmy Cho Platform Heels, and a pristine white Lab Coat. Mabuse had slung the right leg over the left, and her right Heel dangled from her nyloned Foot.
The Nights she still spent in the Bags, but she was no longer chloroformed when she was escorted to the Lab. Instead, the Scientist was blindfolded and had noise-cancelling Earbuds in her Ears.
The Gag was a new Model: A Tongue Stopper Panel Gag. Her Hands were mitted and shackled before her Body. As were her Ankles. The Scientist had the Feeling they were custom-made. The heavy broad Shackles were made of polished Steel and thickly padded on the inside.
Her new “Employer” had an Eye for Details.
“So,” the Villainess asked Mabuse, “What do you plan for today with our Test Subjects?” The brown-haired Woman smiled; it was that cold Smile that was so typical of Josephine.
Mabuse looked at her Pad and then at Josephine:
“Weinstein and Adam´s Results yesterday were very promising. I plan an Experiment for both together to test their Responsiveness to enhanced Stimulation of certain Body Areas.”
“Carry on!” The Villainess nodded.
“For Thundermere and Reichenbach, it will be the usual first Phase: Establishing their Level of Tolerance for different Brands of Chloroform.”
Josephine nodded but said nothing. Sophia took this as her Clue to carry on.
“For Beckett and de Angelo, I plan two different Experiments,” Sophia explained. “Since I possess already conclusive Data for Beckett, and the Information we have about de Angelo indicates she has a very high Tolerance.”
The Villainess smiled deviously, “Do as you see fit.”
The Scientist looked at her Pad, “That leaves one Candidate, the Asian ….”
“You don´t do any Testing on her.” Josefine cut across her, sharply and with barely suppressed Rage. “Are we clear?” “Crystal”, Sophia nodded, “I do have a special Program for her.” The Master Criminal explained.
If Mabuse was irritated, she didn´t show, but she was clever enough to realise that this Point was not open for Discussion.
“That would be all then, Sir!” she rose from her Chair.
“Very well.” Josephine had regained her Composure.
“Proceed then as planned and report after Dinner for debriefing!”
Her Smile made Sophia shiver ….
She knew by now what the Criminal understood under debriefing.
New York: Sarah Mackenzie’s Penthouse, 1000 AM
Chris yawned as she tapped into the large Living Room of Sarah´s Penthouse. Her Madrid Birkenstocks made flapping Sounds on the Floor. She was not the first to arrive: The Canadian was there preparing Breakfast, assisted by Merit.
Her Thoughts wandered back:
“We will stay together till this Case is solved.” Chris had declared firmly yesterday. The Pianist had looked from to the other. “This is not open for Discussion.” And brushed off Hayley, who had been on the verge of Speaking. “This is final.” The two Blondes had stared at each other. Ready for Battle.
It was Hayley who broke Eye Contact first. “Fine”, she relented sullenly. The Blonde was not happy with Chris´s Decision.
Though:
Sarah´s Place was the logical Choice. Nobody in their right mind would try to break into her Penthouse on the Top Floor of an Apartment Complex with a direct View of Central Park. Its security Measures dwarfed Fort Knox.
Ragna, Sybil and Evie had arrived late at the Night. Evie had done her best to keep herself together. But her Underlip had quivered as the Canadian did something very unusual. The Black Lady had hugged the Egyptologist tightly and held her, stroked her back.
Chris had not been surprised. The Masterthief was not as cold and heartless as she wanted the World to believe.
The Present:
“Blondie, some green Tea?” The Canadian had not even turned her back “Gladly”, Chris nodded “I am knackered, Jet Lag is catching up.” The Blonde looked at the well-laid Table “I hope you have the Coffee Machine going – Anna will need it!” “I know”, the Masterthief chuckled. “Her Grace will be even grumpier than usual in the Morning.”
Chris took her Place at the Head of the Table, where a set of fine Japanese China stood, which Grandma had only purchased for her, the Pianist knew. Sarah McKenzie smiled as she filled Chris´s Cup with a fine Sencha. The Blonde recognised the Bouquet as she took the Cup with both Hands and took a Sip. The Tea was perfect. Chris stared into the Distance in deep Concentration ….
One Hour later, they assembled in the Conference Room.
Chris looked from one to the other. They were all together. That was good. Someone targeted the Family. Someone would regret that. Someone had made a terrible Mistake.
The Pianist could not suppress a smile as she looked around: Natasha had joined them, Sarah McKenzie´s latest Pet-Project. Chris wondered when McKenzie would admit she had developed Feelings for the tough Russian. To have her here in this Situation was a good Thing. In the coming Battle, the black-haired Natasha was an Asset.
The Blonde breathed in deeply. Before her on the polished Wood lay her Katana, the five-hundred-year-old Blade made from Starsteel, forged by Sengo Murasama. Her Sensei had presented her with.
Chris looked down at the End of the Table where Thane was sitting. A Cup of Black and Strong before him. She sensed his Determination. He had slept little, Chris could tell. Their Eyes met – and Thane saw something in those green Pools of Ice. A grim Determination, a steely resolve, a Promise: We will get our loved Ones back!”
He had told Maureen last year, at Kirsty´s and Hayley´s Wedding: “The Woman is the Weapon.” Now the Gunny knew he had been right.
The Pianist looked at the large Screen on the opposite Wall, from where Cate Blanchett smiled down at them “Justine, would you please present the Facts we know to us?”
“Of course,” The AI in Residence smiled, “I have joined Forces with Charlotte in Hamburg, and Sybil here, and with Lydia in San Francisco.”
“This is what we know!” The AI began.
Unknown Location, the same Time, a Lab Room:
Maureen de Angelo had no Idea where she was right now. In the Morning, she had woken up in a strange, thick Cocoon of Sorts and gagged, wearing a Diaper. She had blushed as she realised she had soiled it. Her Handlers, two Women, had acted professionally.
They had answered no Questions. Given her curt Orders: To freshen up, and shower, putting on a Diaper, Pantyhose and a fresh Suit. All in black. Then Breakfast. After Breakfast, she had been strapped into a Wheelchair, gagged with a Tongue Stopper Gag, and chloroformed again.
Then she woke up again. It was all dark around her. Her Head had been encased in Leather. She had read about such Contraptions: They were called Disciplinary Helmets. Her upper Body was encased in Leather, too. Maureen could not know it, she wore a Leather Straitjacket with a stiff, high posture Collar.
Her long Legs were encased in a Leather Sheath which was connected to the Straitjacket. The Sheath ended at her Ankles, which were confined in Stocks. Moving her Toes was impossible: Each Toe was tied with a String to a Bolt. Maureen felt that Pads were taped to her Soles: At the Heels, under her High Arches, and on the Balls.
Under the Leather which compressed her Body, she felt other Pads. Straps held her on a padded Surface. A Table? Voices were whispering in her Head. Soothing, Comforting … but she could not understand them.
The Latina tried to control her Breathing. Think positive Thoughts. Thoughts about Thane, about her wonderful Daughters … despite the Danger she was in, she knew with absolute Clarity Thane and her Family would come for her. She clung to that Thought. Embraced it.
The first Electroshock against her left Heel caught her by Surprise and shot right through her Body under her Skull. Another One. Maureen´s Breathing quickened. Her soft nyloned Soles were her Weakness – since her crazy Maniac had sprayed them with Orgasm Elixir.
The Shocks followed now in quick Succession…
In the Controlroom Doctor Mabuse watched the Monitors – and was fascinated. Maureen de Angelo reacted extremely to the Stimulation of her nyloned Soles.
The Scientist switched to another Screen, which showed a padded Cell:
On the Floor, a Woman. A Brunette in a heavy Canvas Straitjacket, with a Posture Collar. She wore nude Pantyhose, her long, muscular Legs tied with leather Straps in a kneeling Frogtie. The Brunette was held in that Position by a System of Straps.
A thickly padded Panel Gag covered her lower Face, a heavily padded Sleeping Mask robbed Kate Beckett of her Eyesight. Mabuse had injected her with an experimental Drug, the same one she had used on her before. But in a much higher Dosage.
It made her feel every Sensation a 1000 Times more intense. The Scientist had taped vibrating Eggs under the Detective´s high Arches and the latest of a Vibrator designed by Mabuse herself in her Vagina.
Sensors taped to her Skin at different Places transmitted Beckett´s Reactions. And she did react. Her ride lasted already one Hour, it would last at least another Hour.
Sophia Mabuse switched to the Screen, which showed Maureen de Angelo.
The Scientist was very pleased with herself.
Later, she would review the Results of the Tests of Reichenbach and Thundermere. First, she would pay a visit to her other two Test Subjects, “R and R” as she dubbed them: She switched to another Monitor …..
Josephine had promised her at least three new Test-Subjects ….
She blended the Thought of her Debriefing in the Evening out …
New York: The Offices of Rosenbaum and Associates, 0300 PM:
Ruth Rosenbaum, Senior Partner and Founder of Rosenbaum and Associates, looked at her expensive Cartier Watch. The black-haired Woman wore her Hair in a severe Updo. Her Resemblance to the Actress Gal Gadot was striking.
Rosenbaum and Associates was a small but exclusive Law Firm, with an exclusive Circle of Clients, some with close Connections to the Shadow World. The Firm was renowned for its absolute Discretion. The Lawyer was curious about her next Appointment. It had been made on short Notice: The Client´s Name? Christine von der Marwitz.
Rosenbaum´s Assistant had provided her Boss with a Background Check: Old Prussian Nobility. A Star on the great Stages of the World. The Fotos showed a classical Beauty, a tall Blonde with the greenest Eyes Ruth had ever seen.
Besides her Career on the Stages of the World, the Pianist had founded a Firm, specialised in searching and finding lost and stolen Art, and was quite successful, together with her Partner, the famous Violinist Anna Romanova, a real Grand Duchesse and related to the last Russian Tsar.
At certain Points, Rosenbaum´s Research Team had hit a Roadblock. Some Sources had reported that the blonde Pianist was highly trained in Martial Arts and a skilled Fighter with the Samurai Sword, the Katana.
One Rumour said her Blades were Centuries old and made of Starsteel, whatever that was. Ruth Rosenbaum dismissed that as Fairy Tales. Starsteel? God Heavens, what Nonsense. Nevertheless, Rosenbaum was intrigued.
Her Intercom on her polished Teak Desk beeped. “Yes?” Rosenbaum answered. “Boss, Miss von der Marwitz is here. Should I send them in?” “Them?” The Lawyer frowned. So, von der Marwitz had brought Company. The double-winged Oaken Door opened, and two Women entered.
Rosenbaum stood. The Blonde was von der Marwitz. Her blonde Hair in a stylish Updo, she commanded the Room easily. The Lawyer noticed every Detail: The perfectly tailored wide-legged red Suit, the white Blouse and the red open-toed Platform Heels. Louboutin, Rosenbaum suspected.
Von der Marwitz´s Companion was less tall, but not much. She had to be in her mid-forties. A black-haired Woman. A shimmering, stylish Bob. A black Power Suit and black Heels. Most remarkable, though her obsidian black shimmering Eyes:
They were like dark Holes. Bottomless like Mayan Cenotes. A small, ironic Smile curled her purple-red Lips. With the two Women entering, the Atmosphere had changed. Normally, it was Rosenbaum who dominated the Room easily. Now the Balance had shifted.
The Pianist closed the Distance with a few long Strides “She moves like a trained Athlete”, Rosenbaum mused and had to think about the Blonde being a skilled Martial Arts Fighter. “Miss Rosenbaum, nice to meet you on short Notice.” Her Handshake was firm, her Skin dry “May I introduce my Friend Sarah to you?”
The Canadian nodded politely but made no move to shake the Lawyer´s Hand. And suddenly, Rosenbauer was sure, the Woman carried a Gun. “Her Suit is tailored wide enough.” The Lawyer concluded.
They had a Seat in the Corner. Von der Marwitz slung one leg above the other. And put her brown leather Shoulder Bag on the Floor “Sarah” took the Seat at her right, after she took her small leather Backpack off. The Lawyer sent for Refreshments. Chris noticed that Rosenbaum´s Assistant brought them Coffee for the Lawyer and Sarah. And Green Tea for her.
After some Smalltalk the Lawyer scrutinised Chris. “What can I do for you, Frau von der Marwitz?” Rosenbaum noticed the quick Exchange of Looks between the German and the Canadian. The Pianist smiled as she focused on the Lawyer. It was pleasant, but it did not reach her Eyes. And Ruth had the feeling of running against a Marble Wall, as she tried to read the tall Blonde. Ruth felt the Power she radiated.
“I intend to purchase Real Estate here in New York, and a common Friend recommended you and your Firm for their Discretion. Discretion and Privacy are very precious Goods.”
The Lawyer was curious where this was going.
Von der Marwitz´s Alto Voice had a mesmerising Quality and her Eyes an incredible Intensity:
Ruth Rosenbaum felt as if those green Pools of Ice drilled right through her. “Get a Grip!” she admonished herself. “Sarah” had said nothing, just watched. Ruth felt Vibes here, too. But Coldness and pure Menace. This Conversation was a Power Play, plain and simple. Ruth Rosenbaum was no Novice to this Discipline; she considered herself a Master.
“May I ask who our common Friend is?” The Lawyer smiled innocently. The Pianist smiled back, “Elizabeth Crawford.” The Name hung in the Air. Rosenbaum felt the Room Temperature had fallen several Degrees.
“It was such a pity she left us so unexpectedly.” Sarah McKenzie smiled. Never breaking Eye Contact. Rosenbaum noted the smallest of Nods of the Pianist. “Her Passing didn´t leave us any Time to conclude Common Business,” Sarah added.
“And I could help you why?” Ruth played Possum. Her Face was an inscrutable Mask. Now it was the blonde Pianist who spoke, “We know, Lizzie, purchased some Real Estate here in New York, before her Death. A secluded Estate. Peaceful and Quiet. Alas, nobody could help us with any Details.”
Ruth noticed the Tone, the Bearing of the Blonde. There was more to it.
“Frau von der Marwitz”, the Lawyer smiled condescendingly “, I would help you gladly. I really do. But Lawyer-Client-Privilege, you know.”
“False Snake”, Chris mused, “Have it your way then.” The Pianist suppressed a Smile as Sarah took over. “We act like an old Couple.” The Canadian smiled sweetly, “And you don´t think you can make an Exception? It would be for the best, you know.”
“I fear not.” Ruth Rosenbaum stated firmly, “It is the Law.”
For a split Second, Chris regretted that Sophie was not present. She would have ripped Rosenbaum apart in any Court of Law.
“This is your last Word then?” The Pianist smiled, but Rosenbaum sensed something had changed. Danger was imminent, her Instincts told her. But she had no Idea where from. Suddenly, she felt very uncomfortable in the presence of these two, physically fit Women.
But it was the Aura that gave her the Creeps.
The Pianist radiated Power, if she had to describe it? It would have been a powerful white Light. A bright Beam of Light. Like Galadriel, who gave Frodo the Phial filled with white Light in LOTR. “Sarah” was different: Her Aura was Dark. Pitch black. A Coal Mine.
“This is my last Word.” The Lawyer nodded. On her Guard now. She looked from the Blonde to the black-haired Woman.
Von der Marwitz's smile had dissolved into Mist. “I see. You cling to Lawyer-Client Privilege to hide your Dealings with a Criminal Mastermind.” The beautiful Face was stern and hard now. “I despise your kind. Cowards. Shielding behind their Power and their Money, but unable to fend for themselves like a true Warrior would. One with Honour.”
“It is useless, Chris”, Sarah smiled coldly “She does not get it.”
Ruth felt the Pianist´s absolute Disdain and contempt.
“One last Time,” Chris spoke coldly and low now. “Give us the Information we need. If our Friends get hurt because of you? You will regret it. I guarantee that.”
Ruth Rosenbaum held her Ground “I have nothing to tell you.”
The Pianist sighed. “This is on your head then.” Her Movement was swift, a flick of her Wrist. Her Cartier Watch flashed. The Lawyer felt a sharp Prick in her Breast, then Blackness. She sank back in her Chair. Her Body grew limp.
“You are too soft at Times!” Sarah McKenzie chuckled, “We knew she was a vicious Bitch before. You could have spared her the Lecture. She wouldn´t have understood it, even if you had cut it into her Skin. With your Tanto.
Chris sighed. “I had to do it. You know me.”
“I do”. The Canadian smiled that lopsided Smile. But said no more. “Let us get to work!” She added briskly.
Someone nodded at the Door: “Boss?” Rosenbaum´s Secretary looked aghast at the Tableau before them: The Blonde and the Black, and her Boss unconscious on the Floor. Her left Heel at her Foot, the right one at the Floor …
Two Pairs of Eyes looked at her ….
The Canadian reacted with incredible Speed.
30 Minutes later:
Chris watched as Sarah McKenzie restrained the Lawyer. The Blonde had left it to her. Chris had not trusted her Emotions entirely. So, she had stepped back. The Blonde had taken Care of Rosenbaum´s Assistant instead.
The Masterthief smiled. She knew exactly what Chris was doing. Why did she leave Rosenbaum to her. The Blonde did not trust herself in that Matter. To keep her Dark Side at Bay.
The Pianist had flown across half the World after she learned what had happened to Sophie and Rachel, after the Attack in Sydney. Chris was dead tired, but she did not back off. No, she never would, when People she held dear were in Danger.
And whoever it was who was behind all this. They had no Idea what they had done. Chris had upped her Game in the last Months. The Canadian had watched her train. If possible? Chris had reached a new Level. And that said something.
The Blonde was already a Grandmaster with the Swords. And yet she had become even better. Sarah had speculated about the Reason … she suspected a certain Bedouin had something to do with it. He was good for Chris. The Pianist had finally found someone she could give herself to, totally. And that was something new. At Times, she envied the Lord of the Medjai. On the other Hand, she was happy for the Blonde.
One Thing was for sure. The Criminal behind all this would regret the Day they decided to attack Chris´s Family. And yes: The Dark Lady was proud to be part of this Endeavour. And it had its Moments: Tying up this arrogant Lawyer, for Instance …
The Masterthief looked down at her Work:
She had stripped the Lawyer to Panties and her nude Hose. The Canadian smiled: Then she had tied her into a Shrimp Tie, a devious one. Ruth Rosenbaum's upper Body was almost parallel to the Floor. Her Head and upper Body encased in Pantyhose, her Arms in a reverse Prayer Tie.
From each big Toe, a piece of String was connected to one of the Nipple Clamps, devious little Tools. Vibrating ones. And speaking of Vibrating:
The black-haired Thief had taped a vibrating Egg under each of Rosenbaum´s High Arches – and of course a vibrating Egg in her Vagina.
Chris smiled at the Canadian “She will have a lot of fun when she comes around.” “I am not entirely heartless.” Sarah McKenzie smiled, “You know that.” Chris smiled back, but the Canadian noticed that the Pianist was preoccupied “We have all we need!” The Black Lady reassured the Blonde – and once more, Chris was fascinated by how well “Grandma” could read her by now. Sarah McKenzie was in a very exclusive Circle.
The Blonde herself had tied the Lawyer´s Secretary in a no-nonsense Hogtie. After she had stripped her to her Hose and Underwear. The Tips of her Fingers were pressed against her nylon Heels.
Chris looked around: The Master Thief had opened the Safe and found some very interesting Materials. The Lawyer´s Laptop, she also had packed into her backpack, several Hard Drives as well.
She felt uneasy. Something was in the Air. So far, they had no Idea what was going on. Hopefully, this Heist would shed some Light on that.
As they left the Office? Ruth Rosenbaum was just regaining her Faculties ….
New York, the same Time, Manhattan:
Thane Reynolds was impatient. Maureen was lost now for 24 Hours. And they had made no Progress. Lydia had joined Forces with Sybil and the two Artificial Intelligences. He shot a Side Glance at his new Partner, the herculean Icelandress Ragna. She was as tall as he – and it was easy to imagine the Blonde wielding a Battle Axe or a Bihänder.
“I am Ragna”, she had introduced herself curtly. What had he learned? The Valkyrie was a Woman of few Words.
He remembered Hayley´s and Kirsty´s Wedding, when Chris had danced with her two Katanas for the Brides. Ragna had carried the two Blades in their Boxes made of lacquered Wood. This Dance was something he would never forget. And this Memory gave him Hope. Hope that Chris and her Friends would get to the Bottom of this and bring Maureen back.
His right Hand rested on his Browning. If anybody had done any harm to Maureen. They would regret it. The Gunny concentrated. They were on their Way to a Banker who had contacted Hayley and Kirsty and told them she had Information about what was going on here.
They had discussed following that Tip. Anna had voiced her doubts. “Dakkota is reliable.” Hayley countered. “We know Dakkota Grey from several Cases. She always had been reliable.” Kirsty seconded her Partner and Wife.
“Fine”, Chris nodded, who had followed the Exchange highly concentrated. “We cannot afford not to pursue any Lead we have, as spurious as it might be. I know this is a long Shot, Anna!” The Blonde raised her Palm. And the Russian relented. Disgruntled though.
Thane stopped the Car, a metallic grey Lexus. “Let´s go!” He was already out of the Car. Ragna followed him, in her Business Uniform: A dark blue wide-legged Pant Suit and black Ankle Boots. The Banker had forwarded them the Entry Codes to the Penthouse on the fifth Floor …
“We take the Stairs,” Thane stated firmly and drew his Gun. “Lead the Way!” The Icelandress smiled. And drew her Glock 17. Thane noticed the Blonde was fit. She followed him effortlessly. On the fifth Floor, they left the Stairwell. The Gunny turned left and followed the Corridor, all Senses at high Alert.
They stopped before a heavy, polished wooden Door. It stood slightly askew. The Icelandress and the Gunny exchanged a look. Ragna nodded. Thane kicked the Door open. They stepped over the Threshold. The new Partners secured every Room before they stepped into the Living Room.
It was empty.
Except for a Pair of gleaming High-Heeled black Slingback Pumps, standing on the Floor. And a thick Piece of Cloth. The Smell of Chloroform hung heavy in the Air.
“Damn it!” Thane cursed. “We were too late! Again!” “Maybe not!” The Icelandress smiled, who had checked the Room ….
Unknown Location: A Cell:
Rachel Weinstein was spent. She was sweaty, she was tired. The Heiress had long stopped to count how many Times she had been chloroformed today. The Blonde tried to remember how this Day had begun …
It had been the second Day she awoke in that cursed Contraption. It had been the same Routine, it had been the Day before: Out of the Bags. Freshen up. Fresh Diaper, new Pantyhose, new Suit. Breakfast.
The Wheelchair again … the first enforced Nap of the Day …
When she woke up?
They, as in Rachel and Rachel Adams III, had been tied to sturdy, thickly padded Benches. Basically, in a sitting Strappado. Their legs stretched out before them, tied in five Places with Rope and with padded leather Straps to the Bench.
Their Ankles confined by Stocks. Each Toe was tied individually with Strings to small Bolts, which made their nyloned Soles very vulnerable.
“Of course, they gagged us”, Rachel mused darkly. A multilayered Gag. She had looked at her Companion in Misery. Adam´s Cheeks bulged above the outer Silk Scarf, which covered her lower Face from Chin to Nose.
They locked Eyes. “We are in this together”,. Adam´s Eyes told her, projecting Strength. Weinstein nodded. She understood.
Then, four humanoid Robots had entered the Chamber. Doctor Mabuse could have told them a lot about them. Kate Beckett, too. Two of the Robots moved to their Feet, two took Position next to their Heads.
The following Minutes, Hours …. Rachel had no Idea how much Time passed … they were a Blur. The Robots at their Feet had used a complete Arsenal of Instruments on their vulnerable Soles: Wartenberg Wheels, Micro Floggers, Brushes of all Sorts. They had laughed in their Gags, screamed.
Soon their Faces were glistening with Sweat, Tears running down their Cheeks. The other two Robots had pressed chloroform-doused Cloths on their Faces, different Brands. Sometimes longer, sometimes shorter. But never enough to knock them out completely.
Sometimes on the Edge. Sometimes just a few Seconds. It was a calculated Attack on their Senses. A devastating one. To be Honest, Rachel had welcomed the Moment when she finally fell into the whirling black Abyss, she knew so well by now.
And now? “Out of the Fire into the frying Pan”, Weinstein had no Idea where that Thought came from. When she awoke from her latest enforced Nap, she discovered their Situation had not improved. Their Handlers had tied the two Rachels together.
They looked each other in the Eyes. Their sight was obscured by Nylon. Layers of Nylon. Many Layers. They could not know their Bodies were encased from Head to Toe in six Layers of Nylon. First, their Arms had been enshrouded in Tape – like an Armbinder behind their Backs, their Hands taped in Fists.
Their Legs were taped together in six Places with neat Tape Bands. Over that, the first Layer of Nylon. Tape Bonds. The next Layer. In their Vaginas and their Anus´s vibrating Eggs.
Their Big Toes had been first tied individually, then together. Under their Arches, vibrating Eggs had been taped. Like Snakes, they squirmed, rubbing their Breasts against each other.
It was sensory Overload, the Dust Masks doused with Chloroform made them dizzy … “This is a never-ending Nightmare,” Rachel mused drowsily. She felt another Orgasm building and knew Adams was too.
She let it go ….
New York: Sarah McKenzie´s Penthouse 0300 PM:
Hayley was pacing the Floor in the Living Room. Kirsty watched her Wife from the Couch. “Sit down, Hayley”, Natasha chuckled “You will ruin the Floor!” The black-haired Russian had been tasked with “Guard Duty.”
Chris had made it very clear that Hayley and Kirsty would not leave the House. If their Hypothesis was correct, the American and the Briton were the next Targets on their Adversary´s List. “You have a very close Connection to Crawford; you are probably the next on their List.”
Especially Hayley had not been pleased with Chris´s Decision, but in the End she had relented grudgingly. The Blond looked around. They were alone. Evie had retreated to her Room, and Sybil was working her Computer Magic.
Kirsty´s Phone buzzed: An incoming Message; Hayley´s too. Kirsty looked at the Screen. Hayley too. Their Eyes met. The Briton saw the Question in Hayley´s Eyes. She nodded almost imperceptibly. The Blonde nodded too …
Unknown Location, a Laboratory Room:
Sophie looked to her left: On the other Bed lay a dark-haired Woman, similarly, restrained to herself. Fixated on the Bed with medical Restraints. She too wore a downfilled Suit, in Purple, though. Her lower Face was covered with a thick purple Panel Gag. Electrodes were taped to her Temples, her Breasts, the pantyhosed Soles of her Feet.
Their Eyes met. Sophie was still groggy after her last enforced chloroform-induced Nap. The Lawyer saw Sympathy in them. Sophie shifted on the Bed. The Sensation of the Diaper was not new to her. Somehow, she had gotten used to.
What had worn her down were the frequent Electroshocks and the frequent Naps. “Evie must be worried sick ….” And somehow the Thought gave her Strength to endure. Whatever lay in Store for her?
She would not give in …
Her Father in Law had tried to break her.
Anck-Sun-Amun had tried to break.
She wasn´t broken yet.
Unknown Location: One of the Guest Rooms:
Dakkota Grey came slowly around. She stared at a bright blue ceiling. Slowly, the Blonde remembered: She had come home from Work. Dakkota had walked into the Living Room and frozen. Three dark-clad Persons stood in the Room. The Attack came from behind: A heavily doused Cloth had been pressed on her Face. Strong Arms pressed her Arms against her body … another Pair of Hands grabbed her Ankles and lifted her off her Feet …
And now? “Now I am in a sort of Cocoon …. The Gag is thickly padded … A soft, large Ball fills my Mouth …. What is that around my Groin ….. is that a Diaper? Hell no! I stop struggling as I hear the Click of a Door. Someone enters the Room. High Heeled Steps come nearer. A Woman looks down at me! I freeze! It is her! “Dakkota, Dakkota, you have been a very naughty Girl, you wanted to betray me! And we cannot have that!” The Crazy Woman smiles that cold Smile of hers. And now I know, I am screwed!
New York: Apartment Complex, Parking Garage:
Sarah McKenzie stops her Car. “You have been very silent, Blondie” She looks at Chris “, Sybil, Justine and Charlotte will crack those Drives – and then we will bring the War to whoever is behind this!”
“I know,, The Pianist sighed, “But my Gut tells me it will not be that easy. There is a Danger we have not identified yet.” The Masterthief nodded, “But we will get to it.” Chris´s Phone signalled a Message. The Blonde opens it and reads, looks at Sarah, “Ragna and Thane are on their Way to base. “They searched for Grey and made some Inquiries.”
Chris and Sarah get out of the Car and take the Elevator upstairs. The Masterthief enters a special Code, which grants Access to the Top Floor. McKenzie registers that the Pianist is still preoccupied. At the Top Floor, they leave the Elevator and walk towards the massive Door of Sarah´s Penthouse. Their Heels click loudly on the black, polished Marble.
The Door is not only massive. It is designed to withstand the Explosion of shaped Charges and other explosive Devices. Chris suspects that even the Gates of Hell are not that heavily shielded. Of Course, there is nothing so common as a Keyhole.
The System demands four Security Checks: An Alphanumeric Code, a Retina Scan, a Scan of Sarah´s right Palm, and a Voice Check. “Access granted.” Justine´s Voice acknowledged, and the Door swung noiselessly open.
Chris and Sarah stepped over the Threshold. The Masterthief closed the Door behind her. Chris automatically kicked her Heels off her Feet but stopped dead in her Tracks. Like she had heard a Bell, only she could hear. The Blonde drew her Glock 17 from her Bag.
The Master Thief looked intently at her but said nothing. She drew her Beretta 92. “Justine”, she called, “Status!” “The Living Room!” The AI in Residence states in a neutral Tone.
Chris and the Canadian exchanged another Look. Decisively, the Pianist stepped forward, her Gun at the ready. The Master Thief at her Heels, covering the Blonde. They secured every Room. Finally, they stepped into the living Room.
The Penthouse´s Central Room was large. 200 Square Metres, a combined Living Room and Dining Room, and a Kitchen Area. Quickly, Chris scanned the Room. Her Body was a coiled Spring. Tense, like a Cobra, ready to strike.
The vast Room was empty except ….
“I´ll be damned!” the Canadian muttered. On the polished wooden Floor lay Natasha Bolkonskaya. A very tied up, very gagged Natasha. Stripped down to her Hose and Underwear. Nude Hose and a Pair of lacy black Bra and Panties.
The Russian was blindfolded. Someone had done a really professional Job. “Justine!” The Black Lady ordered, “Locate Sybil and Evie!” “Of course, Mistress!” The AI responded politely, “Sybil is in the Command Centre. Evie is in her Room.”
Chris had spotted three Things on the Table. An Envelope of Creamy Paper and two Phones … she stepped nearer … She recognised the Hand on the Envelope, “For Chris” it read. It was Hayley´s Hand. The Blonde holstered her Gun and pulled her Tanto … with one Flick, she cut the Envelope open, pulled the folded Sheet outside. She unfolded it and read ….
Sarah McKenzie knelt and cut through the Scarf which blindfolded the Russian, “Natasha, Natasha, in what Mess you have gotten yourself into.” Natasha glared at the Master Thief. Mumbling something into her Gag. And tugged at her Bonds. “Shall I cut the Rope that connects your Braids to your Toes?” The Thief chuckled.
“Sarah!” The Canadian turned around: Chris was holding a Piece of creamy Paper in her Hand. “Read!” Now more than ever, her classical Features resembled a Greek marble Sculpture. Beautiful, cold – and hard.
The Canadian took the Letter and read ….
30 Minutes later:
They had found Evie hogtied in her Room on her Bed, Sybil tied to her Chair in the Command Room. Now they had assembled in the Living Room. The Team was complete, well, what was left of it. Chris mused darkly. Natasha, Evie and Sybil had refreshed and redressed.
Evie was on the Verge of Crying. But did her best to keep herself together. Sybil was remarkably composed. Natasha was furious. Chris could tell. She looked at Anna and Merit, at Thane and Ragna.
Anna smiled at her, and the Pianist was grateful for the Support. Thane looked unmoved, but Chris sensed the steely Determination beneath the Façade. The Gunny looked up, and their Eyes met. Chris nodded. A silent understanding.
The Pianist turned to Natasha: “So this is what happened.”
“Hayley and Kirsty attacked you out of the Blue?” “Yes”, the indomitable Russian huffed “Kirsty grabbed me from behind, and Hayley pressed the chloroform-doused Cloth on my face. “I hate to admit, but they are pretty good at this.”
“They didn´t say anything?” Anna ventured, “Except that I shouldn´t fight it, and that they had no Choice? No! No Choice, my Ass! Bloody Traitors!” Natasha´s Eyes were blazing. She cursed in Russian.
Chris and Sarah shared a look. So far, nobody had read the Letter. Except for the two.
“Well,” Chris said slowly “, There might be more to it than meets the Eye.” She produced the Letter and read it aloud. Her Voice was firm, strong and clear, but the Russian noticed the Undercurrents ….
There was more to it. Anger, Disappointment, Fury?
“Dear Chris
I know how this has to look. You must feel betrayed. You all must do. You allowed us to become Part of your Family. And Guys, you are the best. It is because of you that we do this. We were told that if we turn ourselves in, Rachel and Rachel, Kate and Sophie and Maureen would be returned.
If we had not agreed, the Enemy threatened to sell them on the White Slavery Market.
It was not an empty Thread. You find the Evidence on our Phones. We had to take it seriously. Tell Natasha, Evie and Sybil that we are sorry, it had to go this way.
If we don´t see each other again, Chris, would you please tell my Father how sorry I am that I had no Choice?
(There were wet Spots on the Paper here)
Guys, you will all be forever in our Hearts!
In Love
Hayley and Kirsty
Chris looked up, looked from one to the other. She saw Anger, Sympathy – but no Judgement. Ragna exuded grim Determination. Her Lady in Waiting was ready for Action. And whoever got in the Valkyries' Way would regret it. Anna smiled that typical Romanova Smile, “Scotty beam me up!”. Merit pressed her Hand. Chris was always touched by the young Egyptian. Her Gentleness, her Kindness.
She pushed that Thought away right now.
Evie was struggling hard, Chris could tell. Her Underlip quivered, but her Eyes were clear. Sarah and Natasha, Master and Padavan, they were so ready for a Brawl. Chris suppressed a Smile. The Canadian felt way more for the Russian than she let on.
Chris looked at Thane. The Gunny looked unmoved but determined. Their Eyes met. The Pianist nodded most imperceptibly, “I made a few Calls and asked some Friends to come over. We might need them.” The Gunny explained. “Commander Robert Hamilton and Jeff West, a fellow Marine.”
“The Angel of Death?” The Black Lady smiled, “He has a Reputation. In your Circles.” Anna chuckled. “He is a good Friend.” Thane returned evenly, “And one of the People you can rely on in a Fight. No Matter what.”
There was a Moment of Silence. “All right”, Chris nodded, “Sybil, we need the Information on the Hard Disks we obtained. No matter what.” The IT-Genius, which looked so much like Chrissy Marie, nodded. Chris saw the Determination in her Eyes. “You will get it.”
People often underestimated the soft-spoken Brunette. She was the good Soul of the House and so much more. Chris's trust in her was total. If she said, she would get the Data? Sybil would!
Chris looked from one to the other: “Anything else?”
“All right”, the Blonde nodded. “We will see for Dinner in two Hours.” A small smile curled her Lips “Ragna and Merit volunteered.” The Pianist turned on her stockinged Feet and left for her Room.
“Don´t call me paranoid,” Natasha chuckled “, You saw the dark Cloud around her?”
“Well,” Sarah McKenzie stated, without any Jest. “You are lucky. Few People can see it. And believe me, when Blondie is in that Mood? The Enemy should be very careful.”
Chris retreated to her Room, disrobed, showered, and refreshed. She put on a shimmering black Kimono and rolled out the Tatami. She lit the Candle, and the Incense Holders the Masterthief had provided. The Scent of Cedar Wood filled the Room. Gracefully, she knelt on the Tatami, closed her Eyes and breathed in and out.
It was Time to get some spiritual Advice. A short Time later, she walked through the Doorway which led to the inner Courtyard of Himeji Castle …
Unknown Location, a Guest Room, around 06:00 PM:
Maureen stared at the large Screen above her. Not that she could do anything else. She had lost Sense of Time. At some Point, she had been chloroformed – and she had been grateful for it. That Torment of her Soles had worn her down. They were still prickling, even if the burning Sensation had subsided. The Latina had lost Count, how many Times she orgasmed. Her Pussy was still throbbing.
When had she come around again? Maureen had been confined in the Bags again. She still felt drowsy and fell asleep again. The next Time she woke up? Her two Handlers had let her out of the Bags, told her to have a Shower, put on a fresh Diaper, Pantyhose and a new black downfilled Suit. “How I hate this. Putting on a Diaper.” Maureen fumed.
She knew this Humiliation was calculated. And it worked; she hated to admit that. But despite her dire Situation, somehow he clung to the Hope that Thane, Chris and Friends would come for her.
She had Lunch, it had to be Lunch: Pasta. Spaghetti alla Carbonara. Rather good, she had to admit. Then it had been back in the Bags again. “We have something to relax for you”, one of her two Handlers had told her. A muscular Blonde, with short-cropped Hair. No, Maureen had not fought. And taken slow and deep Breaths …
Now, she watched a Spanish Telenovela. If she were honest? A welcome Distraction. Staring at the blank Ceiling was boring. The opening of the Door interrupted her. Maureen heard her two Handlers approaching. The pale, black-haired Woman with the left artificial Eye was smiling down at her:
“Listen, Maureen. The Boss wants to celebrate with you and the other Guests at 08:00 Hours. We will let you out. You will freshen up and dress for a festive Dinner. You will find everything you need in the Bathroom and your Cupboard. Exactly at 07:30 PM, you will be ready, dressed up to the Nines.” The B*tch paused, “And you do a good Job, mind you? The Boss is a Stickler for Perfection! Understood?”
Maureen nodded.
Now, at 07:25 PM, she sat at the Table in her Quarters and waited. The Latina was sure to have done a good Job. The black, asymmetric Sequin Gown fitted perfectly, as did the black Aquazura Platform Sandals. Her sleek black Hair shimmered. She had fashioned her typical black Bun.
It was really creepy; it was as if all the Wardrobe had been tailor-made. “This was all planned long before.” Maureen mused. “I have no Idea who is behind that.” The Latina was not easily scared. She had her Share of Dealings with Criminals and Creeps, Maniacs, the Yakuza, and organised Crime: Drug Cartels.
The Billionaire did not despair, though. “Not yet”, the little Devil on her left Shoulder whispered gleefully in her Ear “, That will come! You will see! You know that!” He chuckled maliciously. Maureen ignored him. Thane was out there, looking for her. And there were other Friends in New York: Hayley, Kirsty, and their Friends. She forbade herself firmly from giving in to despair.
The Door opened again ….
Unknown Location: The Dining Hall, 07:45 PM:
Kate Beckett listened intently. “Not my first Rodeo,” The Detective mused. She had been ordered to dress up to the Nines. “Surprise, Surprise? I have not been chloroformed!” The Brunette smiled sardonically under her Gag. A heavily padded Panel Gag. Tongue Stopper. Kate knew that, because her Husband had tried a similar one on her, not long ago.
Kate was blindfolded, her Wrists shackled before her Body, as were her Ankles. She had been allowed to walk under her own Steam. One of her Captors had encouraged her to walk faster, with a gentle Nudge: With some sort of Cattle Prod aimed at her Butt. The Captain had growled into her Gag, which earned her another Nudge.
She sensed she was in a large Room. Kate had been urged to sit down. On a padded high-backed wooden Chair. Beckett knew she was not alone. Several other People had arrived. She had listened to the clicking of high-heeled Shoes on the Stone Floor. To describe her Feelings was not easy. She knew that she had been abducted by the same People who had kidnapped Sophie, and Rachel Weinstein and Rachel Adams III.
Kate Beckett did not allow herself to despair. She knew that help was on the Way. The Detective had to smile under her Gag. Their Captor could not know they had awoken a beast. Kate knew that Chris, Ragna and Anna were on their Way – by now? They had to have landed in New York.
There were Hayley, Kirsty and Sarah McKenzie too. No, Kate was sure their Abductor were in for a rude awakening. So, till Help came, she had to endure and keep her cool. As best as she could. “And keep my Tongue in Check!” She admonished herself. The free Use of the Cattle Prod had been a good reminder that her Captors meant business.
Kate Beckett had survived her fair Share of life-threatening Situations. On the Job, and during her Adventures. Kate felt someone fumbling at the Blindfold behind her Head. Finally, she could see again. Her Eyes needed some Time to adjust to the sudden Light.
They were in a large Dining Hall, like Downton Abbey. Like Buckingham Palace. She sat at one Side of a T-shaped Dinner Table. Made from dark polished Wood. The Detective could not know it, but the Table and Chairs had been imported from a French Benedictine Monastery in Burgundy. All were Centuries old. The Highchair at the T´s Junction had been the Abbot´s Chair. It was sturdier and larger than the others.
Kate looked around. Across her, dressed in an emerald green Sequin Gown, sat Sophie, her dark Tresses in a stylish updo. The Lawyer looked tired, but Beckett was sure she smiled under her Gag. At her left sat Rachel Weinstein, clad in a sapphire blue Gown. The Heiress didn´t look fresh either.
At her Right: Rachel Adams III in a shimmering red Gown. The Detective noticed that behind the Chair of each Woman stood a Guard, in some Sort of Uniform. “They aren´t just here to refill our Glasses.” Kate scowled.
Beckett looked to her left, and her grey Eyes met the black ones of Maureen de Angelo. The Latina made a striking Figure in her black Gown. Her lower Face was obscured by a large black Panel Gag. De Angelo nodded in a friendly way.
Beckett looked right, and her Eyes grew colder: Her Neighbour was that accursed Scientist, Sophia Mabuse. The Doctor wore a golden Dress and beamed at her. “Mad Cow!” Kate fumed.
Kate looked again at the Head of the Dining Table and rested on the two marble Columns behind the Chairs. They were not empty. Each Column was decorated with a tied-up Woman. A very tied-up Woman. A tall, athletic Blonde and a rubenesque, brown-haired Woman, with an impressive Bossom:
Both sported Beanie Hoods, but Kate recognised them, nevertheless. The Detective had run into both Women during Investigations: The Blonde was a Banker with close Contacts to the Shadow World: Dakkota Grey. The brown-haired Woman was Danielle Thundermere. The Real Estate Manager had been under Investigation for some not-so-clean Deals.
The two Women wore neck Corsets, which ended right under their flaring Nostrils. Kate knew those Contraptions from experience. Their upper Bodies were confined in heavy black leather Straitjackets.
Their pantyhosed Legs were bound with Leather Straps. From right under their Crotches, to their Ankles: Six black Bands of gleaming Leather. On their Feet, they wore very high, gleaming black High Heels, which had to be hellishly uncomfortable. What Kate could not know? The Shoes were one Size too small …
The Opening of a large double-winged Door interrupted Beckett's Musings. All Heads turned to the Door: A Woman stepped through the Doorway and strode nearer. Her silver Platform Sandals clicking eerily loud in the Silence:
To Kate, she looked oddly familiar. Tall, classical Features, curly brown Hair, she wore in a stylish Knot atop her Head. The Detective couldn´t look away. The Woman smiled benevolently. She walked past Kate, Mabuse and Maureen and stood next to the Highchair at the Head of the Table. The Woman seemed to enjoy the stunned Silence of her Guests.
“It seems like I still know how to make an Entrance!” Their Host chuckled. It was a cold one. And her Smile did not reach the Eyes.
Mesmerised, Kate stared at her: “You are dead! We saw you dying!” it shot through her Mind. “This is impossible!”
The End of Chapter 3
