Stories of Tie Up Games

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Location: Salzburg, Austria, Neustadt

In February: An Apartment Complex, early Evening


The Winter holds the City of Salzburg by the River Salzach in its iron Grip.
Esme is hurrying up the Stairwell.
Now and then, looking back over her Shoulder.

The young Teacher and Pianist is sure someone followed her the Way from the Mozarteum to the Apartment Complex where she lives when she is in Salzburg.

In the last 14 Months her Life has changed dramatically: Esme was a Teacher at Ettal Abbey. The Discovery of lost Autographs by none other than Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart himself changed that: She helped Chris von der Marwitz recover them. In Hindsight, that Meeting was Karma.

Esme still teaches at Ettal but now pursues a Career as Pianist. Here in Salzburg, she offers Masterclasses for Students at the Mozarteum. On the third Floor Esme stops and looks back. Nothing.

It all began four Weeks ago: Anonymous Mails, Letters, Calls. Threatening her. And she could never shake the Feeling that someone is watching her every Move.
There have been Photographs as well. Esme under the Shower, Esme sleeping, Esme in her Underwear.

The young Teacher has considered asking Chris for help, but something has made her hesitate. The Pianist would help, no doubt about that. The tall Blonde sees Esme as Part of the Family she knows.

But Esme is resolved to solve the Problem herself. “I am a big Girl.” She keeps telling herself. “I cannot run to Chris anytime when something is amiss!” Esme will tell Anna tomorrow who is giving a Concert this Evening in Salzburg with the Berliner Philharmonic Orchestra.

With trembling Fingers, she types the Security Code in for her Penthouse on the topmost Floor. Mistypes the first Time. The Door clicks open at the third Attempt. Esme stumbles across the Threshold and kicks the Door shut. Her Pulse is hammering.

Carelessly, she throws her thick, dark-blue Coat onto the Floor, pulls her blue Suede Gianvito Rossi Boots off her Feet, and taps on socked Feet along the Floor into the living Room.

Her Heart is hammering in her Chest.
Esme has made a Decision.
She takes out her iPhone and dials Chris´s Number.
The Blonde is giving a Recital this Evening in Copenhagen.
The Call gets straight to Voicemail:

“Chris, this is Esme. Call me back as soon as possible. Someone is…”
She never finishes the Call.
Someone grabs her from behind, presses her Arms against her Body with a vice-like Grip.
Her Mobile tumbles on the Carpet, a second Arm presses a thick Cloth on her Face. “Chloroform!” it shoots through her Mind.

The young Teacher has already breathed in a healthy Dose of the potent Drug. She feels the familiar tingling in her Fingertips and Toes. She kicks after her Attacker. But her socked Feet lack Power. Her Field of Vision already narrows. Her Attacker is strong. So intense is the Pressure on her Face. Esme feels as if her Nose is flattened.

The brutal Pressure on her Diaphragm forces her finally to breathe.
The Battle is lost, and Esme does the sensible Thing:
She takes long, deep Breaths. Esme falls into the whirling Abyss.
Her Eyes roll back in her Head. Her Body grows limp.

The Attacker let her glide on the Floor and smiles. Quickly, she sets to Work and strips Esme down to her Underwear and nude Hose. It does not take long, and many padded Leather Straps compress the lithe Blonde in a tight Ball. From her Toes all the Way up.

Her Head vanishes beneath a massive Leather Helmet with a large, built-in Gag. A Pump Gag. The sensory-deprivation Helmet robs Esme of all Senses. A Strap on the Crown of her Head presses her Forehead down on her Knees.

Her Kidnapper opens a very large black Trolley. It is lined with Foam inside. With surprising Strength, the Woman lifts Esme in the Trolley. Additional leather Straps secure the Captive. The Attacker fastens two plastic Tubes to Esme´s Nostrils.

She cannot know it, but she breathes in a Compound of Oxygen and Drugs. Her Attacker closes the Trolley and rolls it down the Corridor and out of the Penthouse.

Only Esme´s discarded Clothes tell that Esme ever was here.

And her Phone on the Floor.

 

Copenhagen, DR Koncerthuset, Artist´s Room, around 11:00 PM:


Chris kicks the Room´s Door shut, with the left high-heeled Foot of her green “Nancy” Gianvito Rossi Platform Sandals. The Blonde sighs and kicks the Sandals of her nyloned Feet.

She wears wide-legged emerald-green Trousers and a matching Top, leaving her muscular, tanned Shoulders bare. Her long blonde Mane flows free like a River of Gold down her Shoulders.

She pads to the comfortable Lounge Chair and lets herself fall down. The Pianist gingerly rubs the right Sole and props her Feet on the Table. Chris smiles.

As ordered, a Bottle of Pol Rodger is waiting for her in a Champagne Cooler. Someone must have filled the Champagne Flute not too long ago. Chris takes a Sip and savours the Taste.

The Program today has been demanding:

All five Ballades of Chopin, and after the Intermission, the first Book of Debussy´s Preludes. Not included in the five Encores she gave afterwards.

She ended the Concert with the Aria of the Goldberg Variations.

Chris can´t hardly wait to get into her Suite at the Grand Joanne, where she usually resides, when she is in the Danish Capital. Accidentally, her Gaze rests on her heavily encrypted Mobile.

Anybody trying to touch it would have been in for a rude Surprise.
Only its Owner can touch it with impunity, let alone open it, thanks to a beneficial Modification by Q.
The Q.
The one and only Q.

The Blonde unlocks the Phone, checks for Calls in Absence, and frowns: One Call by Esme. She knows that the Teacher is currently in Salzburg. Chris smiles. Esme will meet with Anna and Merit tomorrow.

Esme left a Message, Chris listens, first relaxed, then concentrated, then concerned. Esme is interrupted by an Attacker.

The Blonde knows the Sounds only too well: A Woman is forcefully subdued and chloroformed. The Pianist listens a second Time.

Chris dials Esme´s Number. But the Call goes straight to Voicemail.

The Blonde calls Sybil. The IT-Geek takes the Call almost immediately. “Yes, Chris?” “Locate Esme´s Phone at once,” Chris orders curtly. “On it!” Sybil confirms. Chris hears her nimble Fingers flying across the Keyboard. “Esme´s Phone is in her Penthouse in Salzburg.” The Brunette says, after 30 Seconds.

Chris digests the Information. “Get me Ragna on the Phone, Sybil, would you?” Sybil does not ask a Question but puts Chris straight through. “Yes, Chris?” The Icelandress smiles through the Phone. “Her Tone is light, but she knows something is up.” The Pianist thinks.

“Esme is in Trouble, probably kidnapped.” Ragna listens concentrated to Chris, “I need you to prepare the Jet and gather all things necessary. You, Sybil, and Sophie shall be ready to depart for Salzburg when I return to Hamburg tomorrow. Pack the Gadgets, Anna brought from her last Visit to London.” Chris adds in an Afterthought.

“Shall I call Anna and Merit?” The Icelandress asks, “No.” Chris demurs after a short Pause. “Let them enjoy the After-Concert-Reception. I call her in the Morning.”

“Alright.” Ragna smiles, but I can call Natasha and Kata. Kata´s Mother is on Holiday anyway.” Chris thinks that through for a Spell. “Do that, if I am right? We can use any Help, and Natasha is a real Asset in a tight Spot.”

The Icelandress chuckles, “Who would have thought that you and Natasha would become something like Friends?”

“Certainly not me!” Chris chuckles, too, and gets serious again. “Then till Tomorrow, could you get me, Sybil, again? I have another Task for her.”

“Sleep well, Chris!” Ragna says seriously. “I will.” The other Blonde confirms.

“Yes, Chris?” Sybil is almost at the Phone instantly. “I need you to check any Mails, Messages, Texts Esme received in the last four Weeks.”

“Will do, Boss,” Sybil confirms. Chris knows that the IT-Genius will work her Magic. If there is anything to find? She will. The Pianist trusts Sybil with her Life.

Some People say that Chris is too trustworthy, considering that a Weakness. Not Chris. In her Book this Trust is a Strength.

She takes another Sip of her Champagne and gazes into the Distance for a Moment. She picks up her Mobile again and composes several Messages on a secure Channel.
To New York, to Mexico City, and to London.

Chris gets up and undresses. She checks her watch, the same one that Anna wears. With one Exception: Anna´s is a Family Heirloom, with some Scratches on the Glass.

The Watch reminds Chris of one of the darkest Moments of her Life, when she had to believe that her best Friend died in a Bomb Blast.

It also reminds her of the unbreakable Bond between them, since they met at the Vienna Conservatory so many Years ago.

30 Minutes later, Chris enters her Suite in the Grand Joanne and kicks her medium-heeled Louboutin sling-back Pumps off her Feet. Medium-heeled meant 56 Millimetres. She undressed, changed into a loose red leisure Suit and thick red Socks.

Chris had ordered Spaghetti Vongole and a dry Riesling in Advance. While she ate, she thought Things through. Before she went to Bed, ere she falls asleep instantly. Her inner Clock would wake her up at Seven.


Salzburg, Hotel Schloss Mönchstein, well after Midnight:



Outside the Maria-Theresia-Suite, three black-clad figures wait. They wear Gasmasks on their Faces. The Leader looks at his Watch. A few Minutes earlier, they had opened the Valve of a metal cylinder from which a Tube led into the Suite. The Target has no Idea what is happening …..

Anna is sleeping deeply and dreamlessly. A Smile curled her full Lips. Her right Hand rests on Merit's full right Breast. Her Lady-in-Waiting has insisted that her Mistress mummifies her in Nylon and gags her. The Russian has not been heartless though. In her right Hand, which Anna taped to Merit´s Thigh the Noblewoman holds a sharp Knife, so she can free herself any Time she wants.

The Violinist has no Idea that she and Merit breathe in a powerful Sleeping Gas ….

The Suite´s Door opens, three Shadows hurry inside, one pulling a very large Trolley, which is empty. They understand themselves blindly and act without Words. The Attackers work swiftly and efficiently. 30 Minutes later. Three Persons in the Hotel Livree leave the Suite, as silently as Ghosts.

The Trolley is no longer empty ….


The next Day: Early Morning, on Board LH 335, Destination Hamburg:


Chris is concerned. Very concerned. Her Mobile rang at Six in the Morning. She needed a few Seconds to get her Bearings. After Concerts she sleeps deeper and longer than usual.

The Blonde searched for her Mobile, grabbed it from her Nightstand, and looked at the Screen. The Caller is Anna. “Yes!” She takes the Call. It takes her a Moment to realize that it is not Anna who is speaking, but Merit.

Anna´s Lady-in-Waiting is in Tears. And the Blonde needs some Time to make Sense of what Merit is stammering, between Sobs.

When Merit speaks coherently, Chris listens, “Anna is gone, you say.” Merit tells her that she remembers waking up in the early Morning. Still mummified.

That she realized that Anna was gone.
That she panicked.
“I needed sometime to free myself, Anna left me a Knife ….”

Chris listens. “Merit that is you will do…”


The Present:


The Blonde looks at her Watch. ETA at Hamburg: 09:00 AM. Chris rescheduled her Flight immediately after Merit´s call. “What is going on here?” She racks her Brain. Esme has been kidnapped; she is sure of that. Anna too. But why? What is the Connection?

She has called Ragna before Take Off. Natasha and Ekaterina are on their way to Salzburg. Chris knows that everything will be ready when she is Home. Sybil has sifted through Esme´s email, her Social Media Contacts, and found Dozens of hate emails and disturbing photos.

They had a common Denominator:
“You will pay for what you did!”
“He is dead because of you!”

Chris stares out of the Window: “I am missing something, but what?”


Private Jet. Art. Inc.

Somewhere in the Air between Hamburg and Salzburg:

Six Hours later:



Sophie shoots Chris a Glance.
The Blonde is concerned. The Lawyer can tell as much.
Chris is taking Notes. Kanji. Sophie knows.
The Pianist writes and thinks as fluently in Japanese as in German.
Chris does that consistently when she is thinking things through.
Analyzing a Problem.
Getting to its Bottom.

They left the small, exclusive private Airport in Hamburg one Hour ago.
Ragna had already packed Chris´s Things: Her Katanas, her Gear.
Chris has not talked much since she arrived at Villa von der Marwitz.
Sophie has a particular Idea why:

The Idea that something happened to Anna terrifies Chris.
The last Time, when she had to believe that a Bomb Blast had killed the Russian?
It had almost destroyed Chris. Sophie knows that too well.
Only Sarah McKenzie had saved the Blonde back then.

Chris does not know that, but Sophie has called the Canadian, told her to be ready on Standby.

Sophie knows where the Masterthief is right now.
She will already be on her Way to Salzburg.

True, Grand Ma, as they all call Sarah McKenzie, is in Love with Natasha Bolkonskaya. But the Lawyer knows she has deep Feelings for the Blonde. Even if she has accepted that Chris is in firm Hands right now.

It is good to know that the Black Lady will be there soon. “No better Friend. No worse Enemy.” That Epitaph of the Roman Dictator Sulla is Sarah McKenzie´s Credo.

If the Lawyer is sure of one Thing? That whoever is behind all this has seriously miscalculated.
To get on the black-haired Woman´s bad Side is never a good Idea.

Ragna looks up from her Mobile and meets Chris´ Gaze and sees the Question in the emerald Eyes:

“Natasha and Ekaterina have picked up Merit and are on their Way to the Safe House. We will meet them there. Merit is shaken but keeps herself together.”

“I did not expect anything else.” The Pianist nods.
But Ragna knows that Chris´ Mind is elsewhere.


Salzburg, not far from Hellbrunn Palace, around the same Time:


Natasha Bolkonskaya manoeuvres the silver metallic Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid Coupé with Skill on the partially frozen Roads. The Safe House lay on the Grounds of Hellbrunn Palace, an early Baroque Villa of palatial Proportions, located in Hellbrunn, a southern district of Salzburg. It was built in 1613–19. The Safe House was one of the many Buildings on the vast Estate. That Hellbrunn is closed to the public right now is an additional Bonus.

The Russian smiles. It surprises her every Time how Sybil manages to acquire the perfect Location, almost any Time. Ekaterina and Natasha picked up Merit at St Peter's Abbey, a Benedictine Monastery. The Father Abbot had been very forthcoming. He had not said it directly, but he had indicated that the Monastery was in Chris´s Debt.

The Russian looks in the Rear Mirror. Merit seems far away. In her lap, she clutches Anna´s Violin Case, and Natasha knows the Egyptian will defend the Lord Dun Raven with her Life, if necessary. The young Noblewoman does her best to keep herself together. But the dark-haired Russian is sure, Merit is beating herself up for failing her Mistress.

Natasha surely would have, if something had happened to Ekaterina on her Watch. And Ekaterina´s Chief of Security is sure that Merit will not rest till Anna is safe.


Hours earlier: Unknown Location, a Cell:


Esme is awake now for an Hour, she thinks. She dared not open her Eyes, for any movement sent Vertigo; even the Attempt to open her Eyes.

To piece together what has happened the Evening before is difficult. Only slowly she remembers: “I called Chris, left a Message on the Mailbox, then I was attacked.” Her Attacker had been swift and brutal.

Esme is sure that she has not only been sedated with Chloroform. The Side Effects she feels are different. Finally, she dares to open her Eyes. The Room is dimly lit. The young Teacher looks at a vaulted white Ceiling. Brick, she suspects. “I am covered with a rough Blanket.” Esme discovers.

She wants to pull the Covers away and realizes only now that heavy Manacles shackle her Wrists, heavily padded ones. Polished, gleaming Steel. She can move her Hands a bit. Esme looks down. She wears an orange, heavily downfilled Suit. Her Ankles are shackled, too. On her Feet matching woollen Socks.

The young Pianist sits on a Cot. On her left: A Wall made of huge, grey, rectangular Ashlars. Next to her Pillow on her right, a small Table, with a Book on it. There is a rectangular metal Table, bolted to the Stone Floor, and two simple Metal Chairs. And a simple Cupboard.

The Door looks massive. No Handle. On the right Side a small Door. “The Bathroom.” Esme suspects. Her Bladder reminds her that she has urgent Business to do. With a groan, she swings her socked Feet on the Floor and shudders. The stone Floor is icy cold. For a Spell she just sits there. Esme gets up and shuffles to the Door.

The Bathroom is as spartan as the Rest of the Cell: A simple Mirror, a Sink, a Toilet, a Cubicle with a Shower. The Toilet Paper is rough, as are the Towels. Esme washes her Hands and looks at her pale Mirror Image. Someone has tied her long blonde Hair in a Ponytail. Around her Neck, she discovers a padded Steel Collar.

The Teacher shuffles back into her Cell and stops in her Tracks. In the massive Door of her Cell, a rectangular Hatch opens, and someone shoves a Tray into her Cell. The Hatch closes with a soft Click. Esme bows down, takes the Tray and carries it to the Table:

“Breakfast,” she thinks: Three Slices of Bread, Cheese, a reddish Confiture, Butter. And a Pot of steaming-hot coffee, a Bottle of Water, and a metal Mug. “Of course, nothing I could use as Weapons.”

The Quality is decent. Esme discovers. She tucks in, only now she discovers how famished she is. After breakfast, she curls up on the Cot. The Book on her Nightstand is a Bible she discovers. There is a Bookmarker. She opens the Holy Scripture and reads. Romans 12:19:

“Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.”

Esme shudders and closes the Book. She pulls the Covers over her Body and falls into a deep, uneasy Sleep, haunted by Dreams. She cannot know it, but these vivid Dreams are one Side Effect of the Drug Cocktail still in her System.


Another Cell:

In another Cell, almost identically to Esme´s, Anna is trying to come to Terms with her Situation. She has no Idea how she got here. The Russian is not scared. “I have been through worse.” The Violinist thinks. It takes more to intimidate Anna, much more. Her Situation is serious. What gives her Pause? She has no Idea where she is, how she got here, and above all? The Identity of her Captors. They have to be absolute Professionals that much is sure.

What piqued her Curiosity is the Book on the Nightstand. A Russian Copy of Dostojewski´s “Crime and Punishment.” Wherever Anna goes, this Book goes with her; a Present from her Uncle Fjodor. The Edition on her Nightstand is not her own.

The Choice of this Title tells Anna two Things:
First? Her Captors know her very well.
Second? The Title itself. “Shall I be punished? If so? For what Crime?”

The Violinist worries not so much about herself. She can handle herself. But what happened to Merit? What happened to her Stradivarius?

Anna lies down and stares at the Ceiling after Breakfast. She is sure that she is being watched.
Her Captors are playing one of the oldest Games in the Book: The silent Treatment, to keep her of Balance. A slight Smile curl Anna´s Lips. Two can play this Game.

Right now, she can do nothing but wait.


Apartment Complex, Salzburg; Late Afternoon


After establishing HQ at Hellbrunn Estate, the Team split up:

Sybil builds up her Computers and beefs up Security.
Natasha and Ekaterina will visit Schlosshotel Mönchstein to search for Clues: how the kidnappers got in, and how they got out?

Chris, Sophie, Ragna, and Merit will search Esme´s Penthouse for any Traces of the Kidnapper, though the Pianist is not very optimistic.
Merit has insisted on coming along: “I cannot sit just on my Hands, when Anna and Esme are in Danger!”

They park on the Street across from the modern Apartment Complex, built in 2010. Chris cannot shake the Feeling of impending Doom.
So far, they fight an Enemy who hides in the Shadows. An Enemy without Face.
The Blonde hates being blind.

At least Sophie came up with a plausible Hypothesis: “We need to find the Connection between Esme´s and Anna´s Kidnapping.” She has deduced. “Why didn´t they take Merit as well? Why did they not take the Stradivarius? And is this the End or the Beginning?” The Lawyer paced the Floor, then stopped in her Tracks: “When did Anna and Esme meet for the first Time?” “During the Search for the Lost Mozart.” Chris shrugs.

“Exactly!” Sophie smiled. “The Abductions have to be connected somehow to the Events in Ettal.”

Now they cross the Street.
To get the Keys and Codes to Esme´s Penthouse had not been a major Problem.
Chris goes first, then Sophie follows, then Merit.
Ragna brings up the Rear.
Except for the Egyptian the Ladies have drawn their Guns.

“We take the Stairwell!” Chris decides. A short while later, they stand before Esme´s Door on the Topmost Floor. Ragna and Sophie cover Chris as she punches in the 10-Digit Code from Memory. The Pianist visited Esme twice since the Events. With a soft click, the Door swings open. Guns at the ready, they step over the Threshold.

On the polished wooden Floor, they find Esme´s Boots and her Coat, where she let them fall to the Floor. Carefully, they move forward, securing the Rooms to the left and to the right. They step into the large living Room-Kitchen-Area.

Sophie still smells the faintest Air of Chloroform. On the burgundy-red Carpet, they find Esme´s Clothes in an untidy heap on the Floor. It is Ragna who spots the Teacher´s iPhone.

They search the Room. Not that they expect to find something important.
Suddenly, Merit cries out and points to the large Dining Table in the Centre of the Room.

It is made of Steel and Glass. On it, an Envelope. Heavy handmade Paper Chris can see. “Give it to me, Merit, please!” The Pianist holsters her Gun and pulls her Tanto.

On the Envelope she reads in Black Ink in a clear, plain Script: “To Christine Auguste Victoria Wilhelmine von der Marwitz.” Ragna watches Chris intently. For a split second, it seems as if her Friend wants to throw the Envelope to the Floor.

With one swift Movement, she cuts the Envelope open.

“There is one Sheet in it,” Chris tells her Friends.
“Let´s see it!” The Icelandress presses on.

Carefully, the other Blonde pulls the Sheet out and unfolds it, reads it, and hands it over to Sophie. “Read it aloud, would you? Someone likes his Theatrics!” She scoffs.

Chris Features betray nothing, but all feel it: The Room got colder.

Sophie clears her Throat and reads:

“And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were, the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts saying, Come and see.
And I saw and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer.

And when he had opened the second seal, I heard the second beast say, Come and see.
And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword.

And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, Come and see. And I beheld, and lo a black horse; and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand.

And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and see thou hurt not the oil and the wine.

And when he had opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth beast say, Come and see.
And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth.”


Sophie stops and looks up.

Chris´s Face betrays nothing.
Ragna looks like the Valkyrie she is, ready for Ragnarök at Odin´s Side.

Merit looks confused:

“Where is that Text from?” She whispers, “What does it mean?”

“It is from the Bible. The Holy Scripture.” Sophie explains calmly. “The last Book. About the World´s Ending. The four Riders of the Apocalypse bring Death and Destruction.”

Merit comprehends the Information and nods, “The World´s Ending.” She whispers. “Whose World?”

“A good Question.” Chris looks Merit straight in the Eye. Esme is alive. Anna is alive. You would know if she were dead.”

“She sounds convincing.” Sophie thinks. “I would believe her.” The Lawyer knows how much it costs Chris to open those Doors to the Basalt Chamber, where she keeps every painful Memory under Lock and Key.

Chris produces an evidence Bag, takes the letter and the Envelope, and puts them in the Bag.
“Let´s go and find Anna and Esme.”
Ragna feels that icy Coldness, the grim Determination.
The Warrior Princess of the North is on the War Path.
Sophie watches in Astonishment as Chris bows, folds Esme´s Clothes, and puts them on the Couch. “She will need them when she gets back.” The Pianist shrugs.

She turns on her Heels and walks out.

Chris looks over her Shoulder “You Guys are coming?”

They walk down the Stairwell in Silence.

Chris steps out in the bleak Winter Sun.
The Sunlight reflects on the pristine white Snow.
She steps down the two Stairs onto the Tarmac.
She breathes in and closes her Eyes, enjoys the Sun on her Face.

The Blonde looks up at the Apartment Building across the Street.

A Reflection catches her Eye.

Sun on Glass.

That means …. “Sniper, on the Roof!” She calls.

The same Second two Hammer Blows hit her in the Chest.
Strangely enough, she feels nothing.
She loses control over her Body.
Chris glides down to the Floor.
She sees the clouded Sky above her.
Does not fully comprehend what has happened.
She coughs.
Coughs up blood.
Chris wants to get up. “Why am I lying on the Stairs?”
Everything is happening as if in Slow Motion.
Her Heart is pumping Blood.
Pumping Blood on the Tarmac.
Her Blood ….
Someone is screaming her Name ….

No surely not? But it doesn't look good right at the moment.

LunaDog wrote: 2 weeks ago No surely not? But it doesn't look good right at the moment.

No dear Friend it does not look good at all. Chris´ is at Deaths Door right now. If she crosses the Threshold? Impossible to tell. Imagine, she has been hit by two GSW in the Chest. And even if she wears Body Armour ... Two hits at 120 Yards Distance? The only positive News right now? The Sniper did not try for a Headshot.

Anna Romanova would have done that ....

Dear @Caesar73, you know how to build suspense and tension. Good gravy.

Caesar73 wrote: 2 weeks ago Anna Romanova would have done that ....

I've NO doubt at all that she would have done just that!

Jenny_S wrote: 2 weeks ago Dear @Caesar73, you know how to build suspense and tension. Good gravy.

Thank you, dear @Jenny_S that means much to me.

This first Chapter is only the beginning.

@LunaDog

You are quite correct. Anna would have taken the shot and she would have not missed. The Shooter though should watch their back .... he or she is already dead.

There are quite some People out there who are more than willing to avenge Chris, Anna and Esme.

Good News. Chapter 4 is almost complete. You will read Chapter 2 at Monday at the latest.

Chris stands at Death´s Door. The Door is open. Question is: Will she step over its Threshhold?

Caesar73 wrote: 2 weeks ago Chris stands at Death´s Door. The Door is open. Question is: Will she step over its Threshhold?

Let's hope not. She's been at death's door before, and somehow avoided stepping across, so she's NOT dead yet!

LunaDog wrote: 2 weeks ago

Caesar73 wrote: 2 weeks ago Chris stands at Death´s Door. The Door is open. Question is: Will she step over its Threshhold?

Let's hope not. She's been at death's door before, and somehow avoided stepping across, so she's NOT dead yet!

No, Chris is not dead yet.
But it is very very close.
Closer than ever before.
Future will tell.

Question is:

Will do her Friends the sensible Thing.
Act.
But will that be enough?

Dear @Caesar73, surely someone will pull her out of the danger zone, assess and treat her wounds.

Caesar73 wrote: 2 weeks ago Will do her Friends the sensible Thing.
Act.
But will that be enough?

But doesn't Anna have a few problems of her own to contend with right now?

Jenny_S wrote: 2 weeks ago Dear @Caesar73, surely someone will pull her out of the danger zone, assess and treat her wounds.

We will learn tomorrow

@LunaDog

Quite correct: Anna is in no Position to help. But there is Ragna and Sophie. And what I can tell you: In Times like these: The Family will corral the Wagons. From New York, from London, from the Egyptian Desert, from the Hague.

Whoever ordered the Hit on Chris and Anna´s and Esme´s Abduction: They are in for a rude Surprise.

Ragna will never forgive herself, that Chris got shot on her Watch, and there is a certain Masterthief ....

Not to mention a lady by the name of Natasha Bolkonskaya of course.....

LunaDog wrote: 2 weeks ago Not to mention a lady by the name of Natasha Bolkonskaya of course.....

Natasha is ready for Action Some People will learn.

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








Sophie will remember these Moments as long as she lives:

Chris shouts: “Sniper!”
Sophie hears the two soft Plops.
At least she thinks she does.

Everything happens in slow Motion:
Chris stumbles back, as if a gigantic Fist hit her.
Sinks to the Floor.
The Blonde coughs up Blood.
Her green Winter Coat grows dark on the left Side.
Red Blood covers the white Snow on the Tarmac.

This cannot be.
“Do something!” A Voice shouts. Ragna?
Sophie grabs her Phone, dials 112.
The Call is taken immediately.
As if she is in the Courtroom Sophie goes through the Motions.
“Shots fired. Two GSW to the Chest”
“Send an Ambulance. Inform the Police.”
Sophie ends the Call:
She sees Merit kneeling at Chris's side, acting cool and controlled.
Speaking softly to Chris.

Merit watches in Shock as Chris sinks to the Floor.
The Egyptian sees the Blood.
The white Snow.
The red Blood.

Something clicks in Merit´s Mind.
“I cannot help my Mistress, but I won´t let Chris die!”
The Egyptian hurries down the Stairs to the tall Blonde lying on the Ground.
Kneels at her Side.
Her Breathing is wet, laboured.
Her emerald green Eyes are unfocused.

Merit acts.
All she learned in the House of Healers, from Pharaoh´s Physician, Ahmose? She knew it for this Moment.

Tanto! Where is Chris, Tanto! There! Merit grabs it.
The Egyptian cuts through the wet, blood-soaked Cloth of Chris´s Coat, the Blouse.
Rips off the Bra.
Two Entry Wounds. Two gruesome Craters.
“You must stop the Bleeding!” Pharaoh´s Physician whispers in her Ear:
“Pressure! You must apply Pressure!”
“Do it, Merit! Pressure!”

Merit rips the expensive, red silken Scarf from her Throat.
It is a Present of Anna.
Will it help to save Chris's life? The better.
She balls the Scarf up and presses the silken Wad on Chris´s Breast.
Merit presses as hard as she can.
She feels the Blood seeping through the Cloth.
The warm Blood on her Hands.
But she keeps pressing.

“You will not die on me!” Merit whispers. “Anna needs you! You hear me?”
Merit does not know where she takes the Power from to carry on.
Chris ' Breathing gets shallower.
“Don´t leave me, Merit!” The Blonde whispers and grabs Merit´s left Hand. “Please!”
“I won´t, Chris! I won´t!”
Chris whispers something in Japanese.
Merit presses harder.
Chris's Eyes close.
The ragged Breathing stops.

Merit does not think for a second,
“You must do Cardiac Message now!”
Merit thinks it is Anna who is speaking.
She presses both Palms against Chris´s chest.
“One. Two. Three. Four. Five. Six.” Merit presses rhythmically.
Again. Again. Again.
Again. Again. Again.
Something cracks under her Hands.
But she carries on.
She barely registers the Alarm of the Ambulance.
Suddenly, she feels a Pulse.
Weak but steady.
Chris coughs up blood again.
But she breathes.
Merit feels a Hand on her Shoulder.
Gently but firm.
“You did well, Madam. Let us take it from here.” A calming, deep Voice speaks.
“Let it go, Merit,” Sophie says softly. “You did really well.”

Merit gets up and watches as the Paramedics do their Job. They lift Chris onto a Gurney.
“Come,” Ragna whispers in her Ear. “We will follow the Ambulance to the Hospital. They will take good Care of Chris.

“She must not die!” Merit whispers and throws herself at Ragna, hugs the Valkyrie as if she is drowning. “She must not die!”

“She won´t!” says Ragna firmly. “She won´t!”
And does not know where she takes the Surety from.
“You saved her, Merit!”
Absentmindedly, she caresses Merit's back.

They follow the Ambulance in their Car.
Nobody says a Word.
Sophie drives.
Ragna´s Jaws are set. Sophie knows, if Ragna gets the Shooter or the one who ordered the Shot? She will rip them apart.

A grim Sense of Determination embodies Sophie. “Chris offered me a new Life, saved my Life!”

Sophie sends a Message to a Contact known only to a very few People.
Just one Word:
“Come!”

“You will reap what you sowed.”
She whispers almost inaudibly.


Later: University Hospital Salzburg:


Ragna paces the Floor.
Chris is in Surgery.
The Icelandress does not know how many Hours have passed.
She looks to the left:
Sophie and Merit sit there on the uncomfortable plastic Chairs.

The young Egyptian refused to change her Clothes, stained with Chris´s Blood.
Ragna is impressed by Merit.

If Chris makes it, Ragna vows to build an Altar for Anna´s Lady-in-Waiting.
Merit gathered her Wits first, acted when she, the Valkyrie, was shocked and shaken.
Frozen.

“No,” The Icelandress corrects herself.
Chris will make it. She is a Fighter.
She is Samurai.
“But two GSW to the Chest!” A small Voice whispers.
The Icelandress ignores it.

Ragna smiles:

Sophie moved Heaven and Earth to get the best Surgeon here asap. And made the Consequences quite clear. One of the World's best Artists dying on their Watch would not be good Publicity.

Sophie reduced the Medical Director to Pieces when he refused to call Professor Mayerhofer back to the Clinic because the Surgeon was on a Reception for the Mayor and not to be disturbed.

“If Frau von der Marwitz dies, because of your Incompetence, I will make sure you can look for a new Job!” Sophie glared at him. And Ragna got an Impression of why Sophie had been feared in the Courtrooms.

The Minutes trickle by, slowly.
Minutes become Hours.
Ragna has lost any Sense of Time.
She checks her Watch. Six Hours.
And nobody tells them anything.
This is so unnerving.
Waiting. Sitting on her Hands. Ragna is a Valkyrie.
She has to do something.
Braining somebody.
Anybody.

At least Natasha and Ekaterina are holding the Fort.
“We got something!” The Russian told Ragna.
“And Chris will make it! Believe me!”

Ragna smiles ruefully. “You, of all People, should know Natasha!” The Icelandress thinks.

But to have Natasha here and now? It evens the Odds.

The Door to the Reception Area swings wide open. Ragna looks up: A tall Woman in Black strides in. Black fur Cap. Black Bop. Black Eyes. Black Coat whirling around her Calves. Black knee-high Boots with a block Heel.

Relief fills the Icelandress.
Grandma has come.

Sophie and Merit look up too.
The Lawyer rises.
Wants to go to Sarah, but the Canadian ignores her and goes straight to Merit. “Come, little One!” She says in her slightly husky Alto Voice.

Merit throws herself into the Canadian´s Arms. The Egyptian sobs. “It is okay.” The Masterthief says gently, stroking Merit´s back. “You were really really brave my Child. We will save Anna, and Chris will live, because of you! You hear me?”

The Masterthief looks Merit straight in the Eye: “You hear me!”

Once again, the Canadian surprises Sophie. Sarah McKenzie is very good at making the World believe no living heart beats in her Chest.
But the Lawyer knows different.
The Master Thief just showed again.

The Canadian continues to strike Merit´s Back gently but looks Sophie straight in the Eye: “I brought the best Surgeon for Gun Shot Wounds with me. If he cannot do the Job nobody can. Jeff is the best.”

Sophie smiles. “Thank you, Grandma!”
“You are welcome!” The Master Thief smiles.

The Canadian lets Merit go and turns to Ragna and Sophie: “And now you tell me what is going on here!”

“As if we knew …” Sophie thinks.

Ragna has followed the Exchange. She feels better now. Whoever is pulling the Strings here? They made a crucial Mistake: To piss off Sarah McKenzie is a very bad Idea.

Sophie and Ragna brief The Black Lady.
Tell her what they know.
The Canadian listens mostly, asks a Question now and then.
Finally, she nods.
“I have an Idea.” She smiles wolfishly. “Listen!”

“I am all Ears!” The Icelandress smiles.
To make Plans, to plan Revenge is way better than to wait without doing anything.


Unknown Location. Unknown Time:


Chris steps into the White Room:

Everything is white:
The Floor.
The Walls.
Anything.
So bright it hurts her Eyes.

Chris looks down: She wears a wide-cut white Powersuit, made of white, gleaming Satin. “I am barefoot,” She realizes. “But the Tiles are warm under my Soles.”

She feels no Pain.
She has no Idea where she is.
What has happened? “I should remember!”
But she cannot.
Cannot remember.

The White Room looks like a Metro Station.
Kings Cross Station.
Platform Nine and Three Quarters. “Am I in a Movie?” Chris thinks.

“No, you are not, my Child.” A gruff Voice says.
A Voice she knows.
Chris turns, surprised:

“Sensei? What are you doing here?”
Sensei Nakamura smiles, “Waiting for you.”
“What am I doing here?” Chris is irritated.
“You have been shot in the Chest. Two Times.” Her Sensei explains gently.
Chris looks down at her Chest, and the white Cloth turns red.

She touches it and looks at her Palm. There is no Blood on it. “I am dead then, Sensei?”
Her old Teacher shakes his Head. With a knowing Smile. “That depends on you, my Child.” He pauses, “It is upon you to decide. You can go now, leave the World and her Troubles behind you.”

Chris knows that Tone. Her Sensei is delivering a Lesson to his Student.

“It is upon you to decide, Christine.”
Chris frowns. Not very often her Sensei called her by her first Name.
This is important.
“Do you want to go?” Sensei Nakamura smiles.

Chris thinks for a second and shakes her Head.
“No, I don´t want to. I cannot. I have to save Anna.”
The Blonde pauses:
“And I will kill the Bastard who shot me.”

“Then you have made your Decision already.” Her Sensei smiles. “Go, my Child!”

The next Thing Chris knows?” The White Room is gone. She hears the beeping Sounds of Machines. She still feels nothing. She drifts away into Darkness,


University Hospital Salzburg: 04:00 in the Morning:


The Opening of the Surgery´s Door rise Sophie from her Stupor.
Merit´s Head rests on Ragna´s left Shoulder.
The young Egyptian is snoring softly.

“You didn´t miss anything!” Sarah McKenzie chuckles as she rises elegantly and walks up to the middle-aged Surgeon.
His Scrubs are bloody. Sophie finds it difficult to read his Face.
But probably she is simply too tired.

“What can you tell us, Jeff?” The Masterthief smiles at the Surgeon. “Jeff seems immune to Sarah´s Charms” Sophie muses. “That´s a first!”

“Well,” The Surgeon states, “It was very, very difficult. One Projectile missed the Heart by Millimetres, the other stuck very close to the Spine.” He paused. “It was touch and go. Your Friend's stamina is impressive. Few People would have survived two Shots like this.” He looks Sarah straight in the Eye. “But the Damage was … substantial.”

The Canadian nods.
Digests the grim News.

“But she will live?”
Jeff looks her in the Eye: “I am surprised she survived Surgery.”

The Surgeon turns to Merit, “You did CPR, I heard? You saved your Friends Life, young Lady.”

“I did?” Merit whispers in disbelief. “You did.” The Surgeon confirms and turns to Sarah, “Frau von der Marwitz is not out of the Woods. But she has a real Chance now.”

“Thank you, Jeff!” The Masterthief smiles sincerely.

“You won´t thank me if you get my Bill.” The Surgeon returns.

“Believe me, I will thank you and pay you a Bonus.” The Canadian smiles. “You have no Idea how important this was to me.”

The Surgeon leaves.

“And now?” Merit asks tentatively.

“Now we will return to Base.” The Black Lady orders. “You did enough for a Day.” She turns to Sophie and Ragna. “Chris is in an artificial Coma right now, to help her heal. The Hospital will inform us if anything changes.”

Ragna is on the Verge of arguing. “And I took care of proper Security Arrangements.” The Canadian smiles coolly. “Nobody will get to Chris.”

The Masterthief chuckles, “Without a Bullet between the Eyes.”


Unknown Location:


“So, she lives?” A Woman asks.
“Yes.” The Person at the other End confirms.
“But it is unclear if she survives.”

“Then finish the Job!” The Woman demands furiously. “Impossible.” The other Person replies. “The Intensive Care Unit is more secure than Fort Knox.”

The Woman suppresses a Curse. “And you are sure?” “I am.” The Caller says. “I strongly recommend refraining from any Action.” She pauses. “And there is another Thing you should know.”
“Yes!” The Woman snaps.
“The Black Lady has arrived, my Contacts tell me.”

Silence at the other End.

“Right then. Keep the Hospital under Surveillance.” The Woman huffs.

“I will.” Her Contact confirms.

The Woman ends the Call and stares into the Distance.
All went well so far.
She had planned for anything, but not for the Stamina of the blonde Witch.
And she has to admit:
She has underestimated the Egyptian, who is Romanova´s Lady-in-Waiting.
The Arrival of The Black Lady changes the Equation.
“But it won´t change the Outcome.” She whispers.
Von der Marwitz is out of the Picture.
Without her? The rag-tag Rabble she calls Family is not worth much.
They have no Idea where to look for their Friends.
She smiles coldly.
“They have no Idea who I am!”


Anna´s Cell around Midnight:


Sleep escapes Anna. She stares at the large Screen over her Head. It stays black. Mostly. Only when Instructions for the Captive appear on it. The last one: “Prepare for Bed. It is Lights out in 15 Minutes.”

So far, nobody has come for her.
Nobody talked to her. The only Interruption?
The Meals shoved through the Hatch in the massive Steel Door.

For Lunch it had been Borscht. A good one. “My Captor has a special Sense of Humour.” Anna thinks: “First Crime and Punishment, then Borscht.”
In the Evening she got Bread, Butter, Cheese, and a Salad.

“Someone wants to play Mind Games.” Anna muses. “If they think they get under my Skin that way, they are sorely mistaken.”

Since her Captivity in the Western Desert, she is well versed in playing Game of Thrones.

The Restraints are pretty comfortable, except the Collar. It is indeed a Discipline Collar. Anna found out the hard way:

When she gets nearer the Door, as long as the Hatch is open, she gets a nasty Shock. Nothing terrible, but strong enough to dissuade her from attempting anything stupid.

Suddenly, the Screen springs to life!

At first Anna does not realize what she is seeing:

A tall blonde Woman in a green Winter Coat stands in a Doorway. She stumbles backwards. Her Coat turns red in the Chest Area. Slowly, the Woman sinks to the Floor. Blood is turning the pristine white Snow red.

The Scene starts again. And only now, Anna realizes what happened, and more importantly, who was shot. It is Chris! Chris has been shot! To her Surprise, the professional Sniper Anna Romanova takes over, analyses what she sees with the cool Eye of a professional: Two Shots to the Chest. “Amateur.” She scoffs. “I would have gone for a Headshot.”

The Shock sets in only later.

Her Captor is playing a perverse Game:
It is impossible to tell if Chris is dead.
Again, again, and again she has to watch the Sequence.
Anna forces herself not to look away.
She bites her Lip. “I won´t cry! Don´t give them the Satisfaction Anoushka!”
Now Anna realizes what Chris felt in Luxor when she had to believe she, Anna, had been killed by a Bomb Blast.
It feels like someone is cutting her Heart out of her Chest, using a blunt Knife.
But something strange is happening in the Darkness:
When the initial Shock has passed? Anna gets as cold as Ice and as hard as Diorite.
Whoever pulled the Trigger:
He is already dead.
He does not know it yet.
And the one who gave the Order, too.

And slowly, as she lies there in the Darkness, some Pieces of the Puzzle fall into Place ….



The Hague: Europol HQ, late Evening:


Kriminalrätin Birte Ricciarelli sits behind her Desk in Darkness and stares at the large Screen. Someone has filmed the Events in Salzburg and leaked the Material to the Press. In Austria, it was all over the News.

Birte has replayed the Scene again and again, analysed it from every Angle. Their forensic Experts told Birte that Chris is lucky to be alive. “I don´t know what that foreign Woman did exactly, but she did save the Victims Life." Eugene de la Cour, the leading Expert for Sniper Cases, stated matter-of-factly.

Birte considers de la Cour as emphatic as an Amoeba but as a Genius in his Field of Expertise.

She thinks back:

When she got the Report from Salzburg, her initial Reaction had been Shock. Max was surprised when she left the Meeting with her Superiors. “Excuse me!” She tried to say as calmly as she could, “I have to take this Call.”

Afterwards? Birte made a Decision.

“I need a few Days off.” She tells her Superior, Kriminaldirektor Jesper Christensen, curtly. Christensen is used to Birte´s disregard for Protocol and Hierarchy. “You will take a few Days off, if I like it or not.”

Birte looks him straight in the Eye; “Yes, I will.”

“You have five Days!” Jensen decides. Birte is almost out of the Door when the Dane calls after her: “And Ricciarelli?” Do try not to step on anyone’s Toes in Salzburg. Some of those Guys think the K. u. K. Monarchy still exists.”

“I do my best, Sir!” Birte smiles.

“That is exactly what I fear.” Jensen sighs.

But Ricciarelli is already out of the Door.


The Present:

Birte thinks back to when she last met Chris on Amrum in late December, celebrating New Year's Eve with the Family. The Pianist had been in high Spirits back then. The Investigator forbids herself to dwell too long on the Possibility the Pianist might not make it.

Chris is a Fighter, no Quitter.
Birte has seen the best and the worst of the Blonde.
When the dark Dogs of Depression were hot on her Heels, after Anna´s supposed Death … when she wreaked Havoc like a Wolf among Sheep in the final Battle in Egypt.

And the Russian has disappeared too. Birte has made some discreet inquiries and used Europol´s Contacts. The Intel she obtained was interesting.

She smiles that impish Smile that is a Trademark of hers:
“And Jensen asked me not to step on anyone´s Toes.”
Birte grins.
“I will have to disappoint him!”

Birte shuts down her Computer and leaves her Office.
She has a Flight to catch.
Destination: Salzburg.



The Third Day:


University Clinic Salzburg, early Morning:



“No, you are not allowed to enter.” A middle-aged Nurse in blue Scrubs, Arms folded under her Chest, tells Sophie, the Black Lady, Ragna, and Merit resolutely. “I will give you, not allowed,” Ragna mutters darkly.

Sophie feels that the Icelandress is ready for Action.
The former District Attorney gently touches the Blonde on the wrist.
“Let me do this.” She whispers.

Sarah McKenzie stays in the Background and watches amused.

“And exactly why are we not allowed?” Sophie smiles sweetly.
“That will be fun!” The Canadian smiles.
The Nurse is in for a rude Surprise!
“Only Relatives are allowed.” The Nurse, Sister Dorothea, insists stubbornly. “
“I don´t like that Woman!” Ragna thinks.

Sophie still smiles, sweetly:

“If you check the Paperwork, you will find that Frau von der Marwitz named the Persons who are allowed to see here under all Circumstances. And we are all on that List. I am Doctor Sophie Reichenbach, Frau von der Marwitz’ personal Lawyer.“ Sophie presents her Credentials. “Will you let us pass now, or shall we discuss the Matter with your Superior?”

Sophie still smiles, but there is an Edge now in her melodious dark Mezzo-Soprano.

Nurse Dorothea reddens and steps aside.

“See, Ragna smiles, “That was not that difficult.”
“What is in there?”
The Nurse stops Merit, who is carrying the Instrument Case with her Lyra.

Sophie suppresses a Sigh.

“If you check the Papers, a second Time Nurse Dorothea,”
“We both know that you should have done this before.” The Lawyer smiles coldly. The Nurse blushes.

Sophie continues:

“Frau von der Marwitz mandated that the Honourable Lady Merit is allowed to play the Harp for her in Case of a Coma. Lady Merit is a qualified Healer.”

She looks the Nurse straight in the Eye “Didn´t you do your homework?” The Lawyer looks down at the Nurse´s Name Tag: “Dorothea.”

“Dear, why don´t you go and get Christine´s Physician?” Sarah McKenzie smiles, but something in her Manner gives the Nurse Pause. “I will go and get him.” The Masterthief smiles. “See? That wasn´t so difficult.”

Sophie looks after the Nurse and chuckles. “You didn´t have to intimidate her, Sarah!”

“Who? Me?” The Canadian smiles innocently. “You did that all by yourself, Sophie!”

“Sarah McKenzie?” They hear a familiar Voice from behind. “Birte!” Sophie beams, “You made it.” The Investigator grins, “My Boss granted me Leave under one Condition only if I, and I quote, don´t step on too many Toes.”

“And did you step on some Toes?” The Lawyer smiles.
“Some.” The Cop smiles back. “But not too many.” She pauses. “Yet.”

After they have changed into Scrubs, they are admitted to Chris´ Room.

Chris Body is connected with many Tubes. Electronic Instruments are beeping; her Face is ghostly Pale under the breathing Mask. The Black Lady steps nearer.

“You will make it, Blondie! I know it!” The Masterthief says in a low Voice. “And I will personally kill the Lowlife who ordered the Hit.” Her dark Alto Voice as hard as tempered Steel.

Outside, Sophie confers with Doctor Sedlatschek. “So, she is not out of the Woods.” The young blonde Physician shakes his head. “She is stable for now. But it is too early to tell if she will pull through.”

The Lawyer nods thoughtfully. “Lady Merit is a skilled Healer.” She points at Merit. “The Lady who administered First Aid?” “The very same.” Sophie smiles. “Merit has asked if she is allowed to sing Songs for Chris.”

“I see no harm in that.” The Surgeon nods. “It may even help.”

“Thank you.” Sophie says sincerely.”

“Would you leave us alone?” Merit turns to her Friends. “These Songs are more effective when Chris can fully focus on me.”

“She is sedated anyway.” The Masterthief shrugs.
“She senses our Presence. Even in her present State.” The Egyptian says firmly.

“Alright.” Sarah nods, “You are the Expert.”
She is impressed by the young Noblewoman.

Her Smile grows wolfishly. “Ladies, we have work to do anyway.” She turns to Birte, “You have new Intel for us?” The petite Investigator nods, “I might have a lead.”

“Then what are we waiting for?” Ragna´s Impatience is showing. Since Chris´s was shot, the Valkyrie is as tense as a coiled Spring. “I have to kick somebody´s Ass!”

“That might happen sooner than you think.” Sarah chuckles. “News from Sybil!”

As soon as the others are gone, Merit opens her Instrument Case and takes her Lyra out. She pulls a Chair to Chris´s Bed, sits, and tunes her Instrument. “Chris looks so fragile.” She muses.

This is not the Warrior Princess of the North she got to know in the Egyptian Desert. Her Breathing is still shallow and laboured. Her Pulse weak but steady.

Merit strikes the Chords of her Lyre. The silver-pearl-like sound fills the Room. She strikes several more Chords.

Merit starts to sing in the ancient Egyptian Tongue.
The young Egyptian lays all her Heart in her Voice.
She will do all she can to help Chris recover.
And Merit knows how powerful those Songs of Healing are.

From outside, Doctor Sedlatschek watches fascinated. The Microphones transmit the Sound. The crystal-clear Soprano is wonderful; the Harmonics are strange but comforting.

“Doctor!” The Head Nurse in the Control Room calls him. “You must have a look at those Readings!”

Sedlatschek hurries into the Control Room ….looks at the Monitors. “I will be damned,” The Physician mutters ….


Unknown Location. Morning: Anna´s Cell:


Anna has not slept very well.
The Pictures of Chris being shot have haunted her, even in her Dreams.
She has Breakfast. At least the Coffee is strong.
She lays the Cutlery aside and leans back in the Chair.
Anna gazes into the Distance.
It is just a Feeling, but her Instinct tells her something will happen today.

“My Captors probably think they have softened me up.” Anna scoffs.

A robotic Voice rings into the Silence: “You will step back to the Wall across the Door, till your Back touches the Wall. Disobedience will not be tolerated. Understood?”

Anna says nothing. The electric Shock is strong. The Violinist curses in Russian.

“Understood!” The Voice repeats. “Confirm!”

“I understand!” Anna fumes.

“Then comply!” The mechanical Voice demands.

Anna bites another Curse between her Lips.

She stands and shuffles back till her Back touches the cold Stones.

The Violinist faces the Door and straightens.

With a click, the door opens.

Two black clad Women step in.

Both were knee-high high-heeled Boots and Catsuits.

One is covering the other.

The Woman covering the other holds a heavy Tranquilizer Gun.
The Woman with the Gun has shimmering black Hair, the other is a Blonde.

“Listen Romanova,” The Blonde addresses Anna. “I will remove the Shackles now. Then you will shower, clean up, and dress. You will find Clothing in the Cupboard. When you are done, you will shackle yourself and wait till we come for you. Understood?”

“It´s not Romanova. It´s Grand Duchesse Anna Alexandrovna Romanova to you, B*tch.”

The Electroshock is so strong Anna crashes to the Floor.

Anna struggles to her Feet. Stands ramrod straight.

She smiles coldly.

Her dark Eyes drill into her Handler's blue ones.

“Understood, Romanova!”

“I did.” Anna keeps her Temper in Check.

“Good!” The Blonde smiles coldly.

“Hands front!” She commands.

This Time Anna complies.
There is no Point in resisting.
She made her Point.
And she needs a Shower.
But she will neither forgive nor forget.

Her Handler takes a minor Key.
The two Women measure each other up.
Anna keeps her Silence.
Even as her Warden bows and unlocks the Shackles around her Ankles.
It is hard to resist the Temptation.
But the second Handler keeps the Gun firmly trained at Anna, and the Blonde is clever enough never to block her Line of Fire.

The Bonde steps back.
“You have 30 Minutes. Use them well. You stink.”
Anna does not take the Bait.
She smiles.
And her Smile is a promise.

Anna looks after her Captors.
For a Moment, she just stands there.
The Cold creeps through the thick black Socks and the Pantyhose.

Her Handler left a Timer on the Table: 28 Minutes ….

Anna walks to the Cupboard and retrieves a fresh Pair of Panties, a Bra, a Pair of black Hose.

She inspects the Clothing:
A severe cut white Blouse.
A black leather Skirt, reaching down to the Ankles.

“Looks like a Hobble Skirt.” Anna thinks.
A Pair of black Platform Sandals. Aquazura. She knows the Model: “Wild Dreams, with a 130 Millimetre Heel. She owns three Pairs: In Black, in Silver, in Gold.

“Again, this strange Sense of Humour.” Anna wonders.
Her Captor knows a great deal about her, but very little about the other Side, either.
“She does not understand me.” Anna realizes.
“If she knew me very well, she would have devised other Ways to throw me off Balance.”

25 Minutes.

She pads into the Bathroom and disrobes.
She takes her Time in the Shower.
She needs that Moment of Respite.

10 Minutes.

Anna inspects her Mirror Image.
She brushed her Hair so long that it shines.
The Ponytail is perfect.
Heavy Makeup.
Heavy on the Mascara.
Heavy on the deep purple Lipstick.

Anna wears her Armour now.
What the Onlooker sees is a beautiful Larva.
Nothing More.
The Blouse fits perfectly.
The Skirt too.
It is a Hobble Skirt, very restrictive.
She steps into the Platform Sandals, closes them, and walks back into the Cell.

5 Minutes.

Anna looks at the gleaming Shackles on the Table.
The Time to play is over.
She takes the Ankle Cuffs.
Click. Click.
The Handcuffs.
Click. Click.
Anna stands and shuffles to the Centre of the Cell till she faces the Door.
She stands straight.

1 Minute.

The Door opens, her two Handlers enter.
Anna´s Face is an inscrutable Mask.

“On Time Romanova.” The Blonde taunts her.
Anna does not take the Bait. “My Time will come!”
The Blonde approaches her.
Anna recognizes what she holds in her Hands.
A heavily padded black Blindfold.
A heavily padded Panel Gag with a very large Foamball on the inside.
“You won´t give us any Trouble, Russian Whore?” The Blonde smiles condescendingly.
“Not now.” Anna admonishes herself. “Payment is only put off!”
She accepts the Blindfold.
She even opens her Mouth when the blonde Bitch gags her. Tightly.
Anna is blind and dumb; she has to rely on her other Senses.
Her Handlers grab her by the upper Arms and lead her out of the Cell.
Not brutal, but firm.
Her Platform Sandals click on the Floor. Anna counts steps. They walk up Stairs.
It gets warmer with every Step.
The Sound tells Anna that they now walk on a Marble Floor.
They stop.
A slap on her Butt encourages Anna to step over a Threshold.
It is much warmer now. Anna hears and smells a Fireplace. Her Handlers press her down on a Chair.
One of them is fumbling with the Blindfold.
The other one with the Gag.
Finally, Anna can see and speak again. She licks her Lips
It takes a Moment for her Eyes to adjust to the sudden Brightness.

“Welcome, Grand Duchesse Anna Alexandrovna Romanova!”
Anna stares at the Speaker.
Her Face grows hard.

“You!” She snaps.


The End of Chapter 2

Dear @Caesar73, that was a close call. Sweet baby Jesus.

We all have Merit and her quick thinking for this. At least now Chris now stands a chance, although it's quite clear here she's a long way from being out of the woods yet.

Meanwhile, Anna is about to discover just who is behind her own particular situation. Will it be somebody that we're all familiar with, or somebody we've never met before?

LunaDog wrote: 2 weeks ago We all have Merit and her quick thinking for this. At least now Chris now stands a chance, although it's quite clear here she's a long way from being out of the woods yet.

Meanwhile, Anna is about to discover just who is behind her own particular situation. Will it be somebody that we're all familiar with, or somebody we've never met before?

As the Surgeon told the Black Lady? The Damage was extensive. Chris will need long Rehab, if she makes it. That is sure.

What I can tell you dear Friend:

The Person who ordered a Hit is someone Chris and Anna know. But none of the Villains we know. Old Hate dies hard.

Dear @Jenny_S you nailed it: It was a very close Call. A very very close Call. Had Merit not acted so quickly, not been so quick on her Feet. Chris might have not made it at all.

Currently I am writing the fifth of six planned Chapters

Expect Chapter 3 next Monday at the latest.

Some Questions will be answered.

Progress is good. Chapter Six is almost complete. It will be one Chapter more.

Chapter 5 got too long. So I split it up

This will be Title of Chapter 7:

"With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right,"

I love the Speech where this Quote is from

One Question for the Harry Potter Fans among you:

One Scene in Chapter 2 is a Reference to Harry Potter.

Any Guesses which one?

Chapter 3 will go online on Monday Brace for impact.

"With malice towards none..." that's a part of Abraham Lincoln's second inauguration speech. Incidently enough, the man who shot him a month later, was in the crowd when Lincoln gave this speech.

Jenny_S wrote: 1 week ago "With malice towards none..." that's a part of Abraham Lincoln's second inauguration speech. Incidently enough, the man who shot him a month later, was in the crowd when Lincoln gave this speech.

Rather ironic, indeed.

I always loved that Quote. The complete Address. One of the great "If´s" of History: What would have happened if Lincoln had not been shot? It is safe to say the Reconstruction would have happened very differently.

Lincoln was a brilliant Orator. His Gettysburg Address is a Masterpiece.

As it happens Chris´ Adventure will have eight Chapters. Work on it has begun.

Thank you for your Support Dear @Jenny_S !

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









“Welcome, Grand Duchesse Anna Alexandrovna Romanova!”

Anna stares at the Speaker.

Her Face grows hard.

“You!” She snaps.

“Me!” The other Woman smiles malevolently.

“The Look on your Face is priceless, Romanova!” She chuckles. “You did not expect that.”

“Still the same condescending B*tch, Vero!”

“Manners, Romanova, Manners, or our Guests will pay the Price for your Insolence!”

Only now does Anna realize that she is not alone.

Across her, at the other End of the large polished wooden Table, Cherry, Anna thinks, sits “Vero.”

Short for Veronica. Veronica von Waldenegg.

The voluptuous Redhead had been the Ringleader of a Group of fellow Students at the Vienna Conservatory. Their Hobby? Terrorizing fellow Students, they considered inferior.

Like “Vero”, her Friends were all Offsprings of old, noble Families of the Habsburg-Monarchy.

They picked on Anna and Chris.
Anna, because of her Russian Accent, and Chris, because of her Upbringing in Japan.
The main reason, though, was that Anna and Chris declined the Offer to join “Vero´s Club”, “The Club de Sade.”

One of the Club Rules demanded that every Member take part in Re-enactments of de Sade´s Works.

On the left Side of the Table sits Esme, her Eyes wide above the large red Harnessballgag, which jacks her Jaws apart. Esme´s Eyes are red-rimmed. “She has cried.” Anna feels pity for the young Teacher. “They made her watch the Attempt on Chris´ too, I bet!”

The Russian still does not believe that her best Friend is dead. She must believe. Not to despair.

Esme´s upper Body is ensnared in pristine white Ropes. The Bondage is meticulous. “I must give her that.” Anna scoffs. The Set of Esme´s Shoulders indicate her Arms are welded behind her

Vero is a proficient Rigger.

Anna can attest to that.

On the right Side sit two Women. “Mother and Daughter.” The Violinist decides.
The older Woman is in her mid-fifties, her Daughter in her early 20s.
Both are Blondes with impressive Assets.
Both are tied and gagged, too.

“Vero” always loved her Silk!” Anna scoffs:
The lower Faces of both Women are covered by expensive Scarves. The bulging Cheeks indicate a substantial Amount of Stuffing.

The Violinist can tell that the Arms of both Women are tied in a strict Reverse Prayer Tie.

Vero breaks Anna out of her Reverie: “Let me make the Introductions! Esme, you already know. You had never the Misfortune to meet my dear Stepmother and my dear Stepsister!”
The Red Heads Voice oozes with Malice.

She chuckles contemptuously: “Too bad, Chrissie, will not make it to the Party! Did you enjoy the Video?”

“Amateur,” Anna says simply, registering with Satisfaction that Vero is irritated.

“What?”

“The Shooter was an Amateur.” Anna smiles.

“A real Pro would have shot Chris in the Head.”

Anna can tell; she scored a Hit.

She sighs exaggeratedly.

“You never fired a Gun yourself, Vero, you have not the Guts or the Talent for that.”

Anna smiles: “You prefer to let others do the dirty Work.”

Vero is lost for Words. “Good,” Anna thinks.

“I would have hit at 120 Yards. Any Professional would.”

She stressed “Professional”.

”There was no Wind. The Conditions were perfect. I am a Professional Vero. Your Sniper was not.” Anna pauses, “You hired an Amateur. Pretty revealing, don´t you think?”

Anna's tone is conversational.
She smiles.
To give Vero the Satisfaction to give in?
Out of the Question.

Their Host decides not to press the Point. Just glares at Anna.

“I will pay for this later.” Anna knows.

“Romanova,” Vero smiles ominously, you have an Idea why you all are here as my Guests?” She gestures at the Interior of the Room.

“You will tell us, I guess.” Anna´s Voice oozes Boredom.

A flash of Anger crosses Vero´s Face, and something darker.

“You, Romanova, little Esme, will pay for killing my Father.” Vero hisses. “You, Mother, and my Sister!” She spats the Words “You will pay because you betrayed Father!”

“I always knew you were a stable Genius.” Anna smiles condescendingly. “And your Father was a sexual Predator. He had at least the Courage to end his life.”

The Red Head looks at Anna, at Esme, at her Relatives: “I have mad great Plans for your Demise, believe me!”

She smiles malevolently at Anna: “You, Romanova, I will save for last. I will make you watch!”

Anna fears not for herself but for Esme.

Vero rings a small golden Bell on her right.

Four Women, in the same Uniform as Anna´s Guards enter the large Room, which looks like a Copy of the King´s private Chambers in Versailles.

“Bring those three!” She nods at Esme, Genoveva, and Walburga, “To the Dungeons and make them really comfortable!”

Vero turns to Anna: “You and I will play one of the Games we played back then!” She chuckles maliciously. “For any Disobedience on your Part? Little Esme will pay!”

Esme and the other two Captives are hauled to their Feet. Anna can see now that they wear similar Attire to hers. Anna tries to reassure the young Teacher.

Then, the three Women are marched out of the Room.

“Ever so noble!” Vero chuckles, “You have not changed, Romanova.”

“You neither.” Anna returns calmly. “Still an Upstart.”

“We will have so much fun!” Vero scoffs. “Get up!”

As elegantly as possible, Anna stands.

“Know this, Vero: I promise you!”
The Russian smiles her most arrogant Smile, “When I have your ugly Face in my Sights, I won´t miss.”


Salzburg: Headquarters around the same Time:


In the large Living Room, the remaining Team sits around the large, massive Table. Sarah McKenzie sits at the Head. In Chris´ and Anna´s Absence Granma has taken the Lead automatically.

The black-haired Master Thief looks from one to the other: Sophie, Natasha, Ekaterina, Ragna, and Birte.

Sybil works her Magic at her Computers.
Merit is still in the Clinic.

To care for Chris is now her Top Priority; the young Egyptian has made that clear.

The Canadian senses the Air of Resolve and grim Determination around the Table.

The Mood is less tense than at Breakfast.

The Relief that Chris made it through the Night is palpable, even if the Blonde is not out of the Woods.

“Bring the War to the Enemy´s Doorstep.” That is what Chris would want, and this is what Sarah McKenzie intends to do. She turns to Birte. “What can you tell us?”

“As Sophie pointed out.” The Cop smiles at the Lawyer briefly, “Esme´s and Anna´s Kidnapping, the Attempt on Chris´ Life must be connected to the Events around the Ettal Mystery. We know that Esme and Anna met for the first Time after Chris and Anna returned from Salzburg. Chris and Anna met there, the late Director of the Mozarteum, Egon Bernd Waldenegg.”

“The Bastard shot himself, two Hours after Chris and Anna left,” Sophie added coolly.

“Exactly.” Birte continues, “To me, the most plausible Motive for the recent Events is Revenge.” The Investigator points out.

“Whoever is behind this has the Money, the necessary Resources to pull such an Operation off.”

“To get into the Hotel, and get away and leave no Trace is quite the Feature.” Natasha concurs,

“The Camera Footage has been erased,” Ekaterina added.

“So, another dead End.” Ragna muses darkly.

“Not exactly,” Birte smiles now, “I let Sybil make a Background Check and used Europol´s Contacts.”

The Investigator paused for Effect.

“Waldenegg was married the second Time. Genoveva Waldstein. She brought one Daughter, Walburga, into the Marriage. Waldstein does not fit the Bill. And here things get interesting: Genoveva and her daughter vanished three Days ago without a Trace.”

Birte knows she has anybody´s Attention now. “My Contacts at the local Landeskriminalamt told me that everything points to an Abduction.”

“He was married the second Time.” Ragna questions, “What is with his first Wife?”

“She died in a Car Crash in Switzerland, 10 Years ago.” The Investigator explained. “Waldenegg had a Daughter with her: Veronique, or Vero. She studied Violin at the Vienna Conservatory.”

“Together with Chris and Anna!” Sybil grins. All Faces turn to the IT-Geek who has silently entered the Living Room. “I just found out!”

“And” Birte adds “Vero, fits the Bill quite well: She is wealthy and has good Connections to Organized Crime.”

She turns to Sybil, “I want you to do an in-depth Background Check asap!”

“On it!” Brunette almost salutes and leaves the Room.

The Atmosphere in the Room had changed a second Time, the Black Lady noticed.

An Aura of renewed Confidence and Determination.


Unknown Location:


Anna has a certain Idea what to expect from Vero.

She remembers one Incident from their Time at the Conservatory…

Anna:

It was early Spring on our second Year. Chris and I shared a Flat on the third Floor. The House had been built in the 1890s and lay in the third District, close to the Belvedere. I just returned from the Conservatory.

I open my Door and kick my black High Heels off. “Chris?” I call. Nothing. On my stockinged Feet I tap down the long Corridor. At its End is the large Living Room. Now I hear something … muffled Sounds, suppressed Laughter. Involuntary Laughter.

I step over the Threshold. In Front of the old Bechstein. Chris lies on the Floor. A very hogtied, very gagged Chris. Behind her, a red-haired woman kneels and rakes her long red Fingernails across Chris´s nyloned Soles. My Friend wears Jeans and a white Top. Her Face is obscured by a red Scarf that must hide substantial Packing.

Chris Toes are tied, more neat Rope Bands around her Ankles, under her Knees, above the Knies. Her bound Wrists rest on the Tops of her pantyhosed Feet.

Vero is totally concentrated on Chris´s feet, tickling her between the Toes, which Chris hates. I don´t register the Steps behind me, so the Attack catches me entirely by Surprise. My Arms are pressed against my Sides, and I have already inhaled a healthy Dose of Chloroform.

I know, the Battle is lost, but I fight with all my Might. But I am at a serious Disadvantage …

When I come around, I, too, lie hogtied and gagged on the Floor.

Hands on her Hips, Vero glares down at us. Two of her Cronies stand on her left and right Sides.

“Hello B*tches!” She taunts us. “We will have so much fun!” …


The Present:


“Move your lazy Ass you Russian Whore!” Vero snaps.

“Still the same arrogant, condescending B*tch.” Anna thinks.

She knows that the two Guards stand behind her, ready to subdue her when she does something stupid.

No, Anna will not take the Bait.

She will endure and bide her Time.

A third Guard brings lots of neat Coils of white Rope and silken Scarfs and lays them neatly on the Table.

“Still love your Ropes?” Anna challenges the Red Head who smiles. “You will see how much, Romanova!” Vero´s Voice is giddy with Anticipation.

On a curt Nod, the third Guard removes Anna´s Shackles. The Russian rubs her Wrists. “You know the Drill.” Vero smiles malevolently, “Strip down to your Bra, Panties, and Hose like a good little Captive.”

Anna complies, but bides her Time.
Never breaking Eye Contact.
She will not give her Captor the Satisfaction.

As she stands in stockinged Feet on the Floor, the tall Russian folds her Arms under her Chest in a gesture of Defiance. Pointless, Captor, and Captive know.

Vero strides nearer and inspects her Captive.
She touches the Scar above Anna´s left Brow.
Anna needs every Ounce of Self-Control she possesses to keep still.
She feels the need to throw up.
Of course, Vero touches the thin Scar above her left Breast.
Squeezes her left Nipple.
Twists it.
Anna keeps her straight Face.
To give Vero the Satisfaction she craves? Never.
“I would rather die!”

“The Scars suit you, Romanova!” The Redhead taunts her, sensing Anna´s Disgust perfectly well. Anna just stares back. “Hands behind your Back!” Vero commands, takes the first Length of Rope.

Her former fellow Student has not lost her Touch, Anna finds out. She hates to admit it, but Vero is an outstanding Rigger. She knows her Stuff. Vero bides her Time to transform Anna into a Piece of Art.

It takes almost an Hour till Anna´s Host is satisfied with her Work:

In point of fact, it was more than an hour before Vero exhausted her cord supply. Anna finds herself in an incredibly strict, incredibly tight Hogtie. Her Heels are resting on her Hands, and her Hands are on her Rump.

Multiple Bands of Cord bind her Legs together, above and below the Knees. More neat bands force her Elbows together, pin her Arms to her Sides, and lash her Thighs to her ankles.

Additional Cord links everything together with horizontal, vertical, and diagonal Strands; and flat, rosette Knots or elegant Hitches are tied wherever Cord crosses Cord.

Next, Vero ties Anna´s nylon toes to her Elbows and to her Crotchrope.

The Pièce de Résistance is a final, additional cord linking Anna's thumbs and big Toes to the D-Ring at the Crown of her Head. Now, the uniform tension on her Gag and Hair immobilizes her Head as effectively as the Rest of her Bonds immobilize her Limbs and Torso.

Anna can squirm a little and rock her Body forwards and back, but just barely. With considerable Effort she thinks she might be able to roll onto her side, but what it is the Point?

Any Effort on her part causes the Cords to tighten and dimple her Skin, or grow on her Scalp, Toes, and Thumbs.

With professional Detachment, she has tried to follow the process of her Body being rendered so totally, completely helpless, and had already reached the conclusion that there were no flaws in Vero's technique.

Her Captor's carefully compacted and arranged bands of cord, secured with their clever hitches and complex knots, might as well have been bands of steel, secured with Spot-Welds.

Yes, Vero Waldenegg has planned and executed her Predicament with the Precision and Planning of a Bondage Master.

If there is an Organization that certifies such things, she would have their highest rating. Anna raises her eyes and finds Vero gazing down at her.

The Redhead's expression is ... disturbing. Her face is shining, her features flushed, and her gloating smile betrays Elements of Lust and Obsession. "The noble Offspring of Tsars..." she muses, "rendered totally and completely helpless." She reaches out and strikes Anna's ballgagged Face.

"Your eyes are so beautiful, Anna... and your breasts." She rolls Anna onto her left side, sits on the table, and cups the Captive's right Breast. "Full, firm, perfect in shape and form... generous, ..."

Her fingers toy with the Nipple, which, to Anna's chagrin, pops hard and sensitive in Response. "Sometime soon," Vero continues, "I'll have to bind these pretty Globes with twine, or leather thongs, or wire. With your fair complexion, I'm sure they'll turn a delightfully deep shade of red." She leans close and gives the nipple a delicate Kiss.

Vero rolls Anna back onto her stomach and stands.

Her hands travel from Knot to Knot, checking their tightness. "Breast binding will be a short-term Game, of course. I always like to start with a clean canvas... no unsightly bruises or rope burns marring the Subject's Skin." She stepped back into Anna's field of vision, and once again, captive and captor locked eyes.

Vero turns and steps from Anna's View. "I'm going to take a shower and get back to work. When I return, I'll be able to watch the Progress of your Escape from my Desk. And don't be embarrassed, as my Senior Staff comes and go throughout the day.

They're all used to the sight of my 'living Sculptures'. Most of them have been one of my living sculptures, on more than one Occasion."

Followed by her Guards Vero strides out of the Room.

Anna is alone.

She rocks slightly backwards and forwards.

More going through the Motions than trying to escape, the Spiders Web.

This will get old very fast, the Russian knows.

“The only Thing I can do is conserve my Strength.” Anna analyses.

Her Jaws hurt already: The Harness Ballgag is one of the largest she has ever been gagged with. A large shiny red Orb.

“The three Panties are Esme´s, Genoveva´s, and Walburga´s!” Vero has explained. “I always found you have a very gaggable Mouth Romanova!”

Anna fears not so much for herself but for Esme and her fellow Captives: “Vero will use Esme as Leverage to keep me in Line. The Question is, how long will the Cavalry need to arrive?”

One Question Anna tries to ban in the darkest Corner of her Mind:

Is Chris still alive?


Salzburg: University Clinic. Intensive Care Unit:


Doctor Sedlatschek is fascinated: The Patient´s Readings have improved considerably.

Her Breathing is not as laboured as before.
Her Pulse stronger, more regular.
The Battle for her Survival has not yet been won.
But the Physician knows, the Patient has turned the first Cornerstone.
Thanks to the young Egyptian.

The young Noblewoman´s right Hand is resting on Chris´s left.
The Lady Merit is talking to the Blonde in that ancient Tongue.
Merit is looking intently at Chris´s still-pale face.
Her Cheeks shimmer slightly, rosy.
And her left Hand is no longer cold like Marble.


Same Time, somewhere over the Atlantic:


Hayley King looks at her Wife. “Will Chris make it?” Kirsty shrugs. “Impossible to tell from the Distance. I have seen much in Afghanistan, I mean, you pulled through after the Bomb Blast.”

Absentmindedly, her Wife touches her Breast, where the Scars are hidden under her white Blouse.

“Two GSW to the Chest is surely no Walk in the Park,” Kirsty adds. From what Sarah told me, Merit saved Chris´ Life.”

“And Chris is one of the strongest Persons I know!” Captain Kate Beckett adds. Beckett knows what she is talking about; she was shot by a Sniper years ago.

“You know,” Hayley adds thoughtfully, “We are just used to the fact that Chris is always there.”

Silence greets those Words.

Kirsty looks out of the Window. Thank God, Maureen de Angelo lent them her Private Jet. The Latina even offered to come with them.

A Thought crosses Kirsty´s Mind:

“Did someone inform Ardeth Bey and James?”

Kate shrugs: “I am not sure, but I think Sarah will have taken care of that.”

“When Ardeth Bey gets the Culprit in his Hands? There will be the Devil to pay!” Hayley smiles grimly.

And that is an encouraging Thought.


Around the same Time, somewhere in the Western Desert, Egypt:


A tall Egyptian Noblewoman, clad in the traditional Garb of the High Priestess of Isis, watches after an ascending Private Jet, together with an Egyptian in his Fifties. “I will pray for Chris and Anna!” Merit Amun says to her Father Ramose.
Former Grand Vizier of Pharao and now Ruler of Little Egypt.

“May the Gods save her!” Ramose replies.

Quite a few People think Ramose has no beating Heart in his Chest. But Merit Amun knows better: Her Father admires the Warrior Princess of the North and Anna Romanova. And that is high Praise coming from Ramose.

Admiration is what comes closest to Empathy, Love in Ramose’s World.

That the Lord of the Medjai boards a Jet from Little Egypt to Austria shows how much the World has changed.

As the Private Jet from London had landed. A blonde Man with chiselled Features left the Jet and greeted Ardeth Bey. The Man is 007. James Bond. With the License to kill. And Partner of Anna Romanova.

Nefer feels the dry Wind from the East on her Skin.
The Wind of Seth.
The Wind of Death.
A Storm is gathering.
Nefer feels it in the Air.
Nefer feels it in the Water.
Whoever is responsible for what happened to Anna and Christine:
Death is coming. On swift Wings.

“Father, I have to do this!” She addresses the Grand Vizier. “The Order of Maat must be restored.”

“Then you do it. Daughter.”

Ramose nods

“I will, Father!” Meri replies curtly.

“This is the right thing to do!

Ramose suppresses a Smile.

“It is my Child!”


Salzburg: Central City: Waldenegg-Real Estate:



“And you think this will work?” Ekaterina Oblomova looks down on herself a bit dubiously.
“Of course, Boss.” Natasha Bolkonskaya smiles lopsidedly. “You look every Part the arrogant Russian Oligarch Bitch Ekaterina Oblomova, Daughter of Boris Oblomov.”


Ekaterina wears heavy Makeup. A grey wide-legged Power Suit. Matching Louboutin Heels.
“You might have overdone it with the Perfume.” Natasha chuckles.
They get out of the Car.

Waldenegg Real Estate is a modern Six-Storey Complex.

Natasha plays the Role she is best known for: Head of Security of Ekaterina Oblomova. She wears her Uniform:

Wide cut, wide-legged black Power Suit, black Jimmy Choo Platform Heels, black Pantyhose. Her curly black Hair in a Ponytail.
Natasha radiates Power. Even Menace.
And Ekaterina is glad to have her at her Side.
Both Women put on their Game Faces as they stride to the Reception Desk.
Their High Heels click in perfect Synchronicity on the Floor.

The young Woman behind the Reception Desk and looks at the two Visitors:
Both are very tall. “Russians.” Elizabeth Schneider thinks:
The heavy Makeup, the expensive Heels, the Clothes. A Blonde and a black-haired Woman.
The Blonde exudes Arrogance.
The Blackhead something different: Menace.

“My Boss demands to see Veronica Waldenegg.” The black-haired Woman does not even try to be polite.

“You have an Appointment?” Elizabeth smiles professionally.

“Ekaterina Oblomova does not need an Appointment.” The tall, black-haired Woman cuts across her.

“Frau Waldenegg is not in the House, but can refer you to her personal Assistant.” Elizabeth offers.

“The Baker does not talk to the Bread Rolls.” The Blonde speaks for the first Time. Haughty. Arrogant. “I am in Town till tomorrow.” She adds.

“If Frau Waldenegg is not interested in Business, her Fault. I know enough People in Salzburg who will take my Millions gladly.”

“But,” Elizabeth tries to say.

“Natasha, give the young Lady my Business Card.” Oblomova interrupts her.

The Blonde turns sharply on her Heels.

Natasha leaves the Expensive Business Card on the Desk.
“Are you coming, Bolkonskaya?” her Boss asks the black-haired Woman impatiently.

The two Women leave the Reception Area.

Elizabeth watches on the Screen as Natasha Bolkonskaya opens the rear Door of the black Maybach Limousine for her Boss.

One Minute later, the heavy Limousine leaves.

Inside, Natasha looks at her Mobile:
“The Eagle has landed.” Sarah McKenzie texted.
The Russian smiles deviously.


A few Minutes later:

A blonde Woman in a black Power Suit enters Veronica Waldenegg´s Office on the sixth Floor. One of the Woman´s Talents: To avoid being seen. People see her, but they have no Memory of her. It is as if she weren´t there. Very useful in her Line of Business.

She powers up the large iMac. Obviously, Veronica Waldenegg likes her toys. It is the latest Model, the most expensive. Instead of entering the Password, the Blonde inserts a Flash Drive in the right Slot.

She checks her Watch:
2 Minutes.
1 Minute.
The Upload is complete.

The Woman removes the Flash Drive and powers the iMac down.
Five Minutes later, a Blonde Woman leaves the Building.
Nobody will remember her.
And she will not appear on the Security Footage.
Sarah McKenzie smiles.
Operation Thundercloud is on.
Veronica Waldenegg does not yet know it.
But her Enemies just brought the War to her Doorstep.


Hellbrunn: Headquarters:

Sybil looks at her Screens and smiles.

She is in. Now they have to wait till Waldenegg powers up her Computer.


The White Room:


Chris steps into King´s Cross Station again. She wears the white satin Powersuit again, barefoot.
She feels no Pain. Something has changed. Chris touches her Breast. No blood.

“Welcome, my Child.” Sensei Nakamura greets her with a polite Smile.
“Why am I here again?” the blonde Pianist asks her old Teacher “Am I dead?”
“You are not, Christine.” The Japanese states firmly.

“You are not dead, but not ready to return to the World yet.” Her Sensei explains.

“But I must return! I must save Anna!” Chris makes no Effort to hide her Irritation.

“Give yourself Time to heal, my Child.” Sensei Nakamura tells her warmly.

He looks warmly at his former Student:

“You will return when you are ready.”

He reads so many Emotions on her Face, Chris knows.

“Come,” Her old Teacher says gently, “Let us go a few Steps and talk about Affairs.

“I have no Choice in the Matter,” Chris huffs,

“No.” Sensei Nakamura returns, “No, you have not. You will know when it is Time.”
Chris nods.

“Lead the Way then.”

Salzburg: A private Air Strip:


A Private Jet has landed. To Men, get out.
One is a Bedouin. One is blond.
A black Mercedes Limousine waits for them.
“I have Business in the City” The blonde Man says. “Shaking some Trees.”
“You go to the Clinic.”
Ardeth Bey nods.





 

Well, i'm sure that whilst she a long way from being out of woods yet, Chris is making the signs of a recovery. Phew!

Anna is however in a tight spot. Not so much regarding her own position, but rather she has to move very carefully or Esme could suffer badly.

Bad news for the 'baddies' here though. Sarah MacKenzie is VERY much on the 'warpath!'