...I refrained in the End from it, because I feared a split would disrupt the flow
[/quote]
fair enough!
The Files of Art. Inc: Single Case Files (12.05.24) "Tying the knot" Chapter 4 (FFFF+/FFFF+)
[/quote]
...I refrained in the End from it, because I feared a split would disrupt the flow
[/quote]
fair enough!
...I refrained in the End from it, because I feared a split would disrupt the flow
[/quote]
fair enough!
Wow now that was one incredibly enjoyable chapter as always my dear friend. As much a work of art as a bondage tale. Though I can’t help but wonder are you having a secret competition with @wolfman to see who can make the longest chapter while delighting your readers 
I might give them a run for the money myself. The Bondage Model has had several 6000+ word chapters.
@Caesar73, all the fashion terms and brands are completely foreign to me, and I fancy myself as having a wide vocabulary. You, sir, stumped me in many places, and Google was my companion to get through this.
CGC Short Stories (F+f+/F+f+): viewtopic.php?f=8&t=20527
Find my other CGC Stories in the same link above!
Find my other CGC Stories in the same link above!
-
mrjones2009
- Centennial Club
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A highly entertaining chapter for both reader and characters.
Nice to see the ladies participating in the fun and giving Hayley and Kirsty a fitting wedding celebration.
Nice to see the ladies participating in the fun and giving Hayley and Kirsty a fitting wedding celebration.
@GreyLord @Bandit666 @banshee @Beaumains @Bigballgag1 @Trammel @wolfman @mrjones2009 @slackywacky @Nainur @TightsBound @Pantyhose971 @TayDay95 @NotSeen @Fandango @LunaDog @Argentum @h6hlh6h @algebrauk
Four Shadows hurried across the Front Patio of Bernstein Manor. Each Shadow wore a large backpack. Stealthily they crept up to the massive two-winged Front Door. The first Shadow entered a Code into a Pad. With a soft click, the massive Door swung open almost noiselessly.
The Leader breathed in deeply with relief. So, the Information they had obtained by some good old-fashioned blackmail had been correct. The four Shadows communicated through hand signs. The way they acted, and the way they moved betrayed the trained Professionals – this wasn´t clearly not their first black op.
The four Intruders hurried inside. Now came the tricky Part: Their Targets were located on the first Floor. They had to act quickly and stealthily. They were on enemy territory. And their Counterparts were far from defenceless. The Elements of Surprise and Stealth were key. This was a high-risk black Operation. The Leader suppressed a slight feeling of anxiety – despite the many successful Operations she and her Teammates had pulled off.
Elegantly and as smoothly as large Cats the four entirely black-clad Women hurried up the large, curved Stair Well. At the topmost Stair, they stopped, and the Leader listened intently. The long Corridor was silent. Carefully they stepped forward. The Room of their Targets was the third on the right side.
Before the Door, they stopped. It was not entirely closed. From inside soft snoring sounds could be heard, from two Women. The Leader pushed the Door gently open. She pointed at herself, at another, and on the right Side of the large King Size Bed. The other two Shadows moved to the peacefully sleeping Woman on the left.
Then both Duos pounced. Their Targets stood no Chance as thick Cloths, doused with Chloroform were pressed on their Faces. The four Assailants had many routine in subduing unsuspecting Damsels.
Finally, the feeble Struggles of the two Targets ceased. Their Attackers acted swiftly. They set their backpacks down – and removed several Items: Two downfilled suits, diapers, manacles, and panel gags. Two Women opened four Compression Sacks and removed heavy downfilled Bags. As they lofted up the four Women set two Work.
In perfect Synchronicity, the four Women acted. And prepared the Targets, which meant: They stripped them naked first, before putting Diapers on them, manhandled them in a down-filled suit, and restrained and gagged them with heavy large Panel Gags, the latest Model with an even larger Foam Ball in its Center, highly effective Bondage Mittens, broad heavily padded Shackles, made of Lycra and Leather, and heavily padded Straps.
Eight for each Damsels. One of the Women pulled the Straps restraining the Woman on the right side extremely tight – with relish. She definitely enjoyed her job.
The Leader listened: So far everything had worked according to Plan. Now they had to put the two Women into the Bags – and then came the real tricky Part: Spiriting them down the Stairwell and to the nondescript black Van ….
A little earlier:
Sarah McKenzie´s Suite:
Sarah McKenzie could not tell what woke her up. Next to her, Natasha Bolkonskaya was snoring softly. Previously the Master Thief had hogtied the tall athletic black-haired Russian with silken scarves. Many Silk Scarves. From her big toes and insteps upwards. Including a tightly knotted crotch Scarf and a crushing Elbow Tie.
Natasha had served her with her most talented tongue. The large Ring Gag had been a good Choice – the Canadian smiled. That the dominant Russian was inclined to be a Sub had its Merits. “So, I have been right!” The Thief had teased the Russian “You are a Switch!” And pressed Bolkonskaya´s head more firmly against her Crotch “A talented one” she whispered hoarsely “Continue!”
Now Natasha was loosely bound with Silk scarves around her wrists and ankles. The Gag was a light one considering the Canadian´s high Standards: Sarah had gagged her with a large red silken Scarf with a large knot in it – after she had stuffed her own Panties in Natasha´s Mouth.
“Concentrate!” she admonished herself. Her Spider Sense warned her of grave Danger …. And Sarah McKenzie trusted her Guts always.
There had been a noise …
The Canadian was sure to have heard something … almost noiselessly she got up. She wore a black negligée which ended just over the knees. McKenzie grabbed her gun from her nightstand. It laid always there.
Silently and as noiseless as a ghost she left her Room. And listened.
On her right was Natalies and Charlotte's Suite, the door stood slightly ajar, and a beam of light fell on the dark floor. The Thief crept near and peered through the opening: She could not see much, but what she heard was enough, the unmistakable sounds of subduing a woman: The sounds were heavily muffled.
And subsided quickly …
Quickly and stealthily the Master Thief retreated and hurried as silently as possible down the Corridor to Chris´ Room. Carefully she opened the door. Sarah McKenzie switched on the light. It was always fascinating: One moment the Pianist was sleeping peacefully, the next her emerald-green Eyes fixated on her “She seems not surprised in the slightest!” The Canadian suppressed a Grin.
Another Trademark: The Pianist was quick on the Uptake and did not ask superfluous Questions:
Chris noticed the Gun in her Hand. Quickly she pulled her Covers aside and got up – in one fluid movement. Her short green negligée graced the onlooker with a good view of her tanned muscular thighs “Trouble?” she whispered “Natalie´s Room” The Thief whispered back “How many?” the blonde asked “Four!” Chris nodded “I get Anna and Gabriella – you keep an eye on them!” The Pianist walked to the small table where the two boxes with the Katanas lay. She opened the black lacquered box and took the Katana her Sensei had presented her with.
Almost noiseless in an elegant fluid movement she drew the blade out of its scabbard with her right. She grabbed her HK 23 with her left Hand and followed the Thief. Their bare feet made almost no noise on the Carpet. Chris turned left and vanished into the Darkness like a Ghost, melted with the Shadows, became Part of them.
The Canadian took Position next to Natalie´s and Charlotte´s Room from which she could shoot anybody coming out. A grim smile curled her lips. Whoever was in there? They were in for a surprise … This Situation was one of those The Dark Lady loved, she was good at that Game.
She looked down the Corridor in the other direction and could make out three shadows in the Darkness: Chris, followed by Anna and Gabriella. The tall Russian and the equally tall Chilean had gripped their handguns tightly.
Anna carried a fifth Generation Glock 17, and Gabriella a SIG Sauer P 226. Sarah McKenzie grinned: The three Amazons were quite the sight: Barefoot, short Negligées, Weapons firmly in their Hands.
“Charlie´s three Angels!” The Masterthief chuckled inwardly. Normally she was no fan of Remakes, but this one would be an exception.
The Canadian pointed at the Door then at herself and held three fingers in the Air. Three, two, one … Sarah McKenzie kicked the door forcefully open and charged into the Room Chris, Anna, and Gabriella on her Heels.
Four black-clad Intruders wheeled around. Their heads were covered by Black Balaclavas. Two of them had been in the Process of bagging Charlotte in the second Restraining Bag. Natalie was already secured completely in baby blue bags.
The Quartet starred in total shock at the business ends of four heavy Handguns and the tip of a gleaming Katana. The black-haired Canadian smiled that dangerous cold smile “It is impolite not to knock at the Door”.
She motioned with the Gun to a point next to the bed – at a safe Distance “Move your sorry Asses there and keep your hands where we can see them!” The four Assailants did not move “Now!” the Thief spoke calmly but with a coldness and menace in her voice that would have made hardened Warriors wet their Pants.
Tentatively the four Women moved away from the bed. A very muffled moan indicated that Natalie was coming around again. Chris smiled coldly. They had gotten the Intruders entirely by surprise.
She looked them up and down. They were obviously fit; she concluded. The Chilean interrupted them “These are Crawfords People!” Gabriella exclaimed excitedly – “I know at least two of them!”
Sarah McKenzie smiled ominously “Then let´s find out who is under those fashionable Balaclavas!” With delight the Thief noticed the Intruders were shifting uncomfortably under her Gaze.
“Remove your balaclavas – slowly!” The Thief commanded, her Gun trained at the Woman in the Middle, between the Eyes, “And no sudden movements – I am a bit twitchy” Her smile would have made an Ice Bear shiver “And the Lady with the Katana will cut off your head before you have made one move, we don´t like!”
The blonde smiled ominously and whirled her blade through the Air, incredibly swiftly. Her left hand held the HK 23 steady and aimed right between the second Woman's eyes from the left.
Tentatively the Woman at the utmost right removed her Balaclava. The others followed suit. Chris and her Companions looked at four Women, two brown-haired, one redhead, and one woman with short black Hair.
“I will be damned” Gabriella whispered, the Chilean stared at the four assailants “These are from left to right: Andrea, Tehiani, Perrie, and Vernie! They are among Crawford´s most experienced and best people!”
Crawford did have the Audacity to try to spoil Kirsty´s and Hayley´s Wedding? Chris was pissed off. Royally pissed off. A split ear had not been enough … After Crawford´s last Scheme to get back at Hayley and Kirsty? The Pianist had delivered a stern Warning: Touch Hayley and Kirsty again and it will be the last thing you ever do …She looked each of the four Women in the Eye, fixating them, sternly hard and unforgiving.
“Let us cut this short!” Chris addressed the Assailants curtly – in that cool and controlled manner that was a sign of impending doom “You will strip now, slowly without sudden Movements!”
“F*ck you B*tch!” Andrea challenged her hotly.
Chris and Anna exchanged a look: Anna pulled the Trigger. The Projectile graced Andrea´s left Temple. The Russian changed her Aim: The next shot would hit the other Woman squarely between the Eyes. The heavy Gun did not weaver a Millimetre.
“Anything else to say?” Anna´s voice was as cold as Glacier. Andrea froze. She looked the Russian in the Eye – and saw a steely resolve there. Andrea realized: The Russian would shoot her the next time “This should have been a simple easy Mission: In and out ….” She cursed inwardly. It was clearly not.
Noises on the Floor indicated that the Shot had woken some People.
“You heard the Lady!” The Thief smiled ominously “Strip! There will be no third Invitation! You can keep your Bra and Panties!” Strained silence greeted that announcement. The Thief aimed at the feet of the Woman on the right. The Gun Shot rang eerily loud, the Projectile pierced the Floor, next to her right Foot.
Tentatively the four Women began to disrobe.
Five Minutes later Birte and Kate, followed by Christina and Sophie charged into the Room. Guns drawn. The Intruders had stripped to their underwear in the meantime “What have we here?” Kate looked at Chris “Later” The Pianist explained calmly, “Birte and Christina get zip ties, lots of them, and Ballgags – the largest you can find!”
The Detective and Christina Howard left.
Tehani found the Blonde´s smile rivalled that of the black-haired Canadian when it came to the creepiness. She had never seen somebody wielding a sword except in Movies. But the way the tall Blonde handled the Sword betrayed the Professional.
She knew that von der Marwitz had almost beheaded her Boss, but in the last Moment changed the direction of the Stroke, so the Blade had just cut off Crawford's left Earlobe. Since then, Crawford wore her hair so long it covered her Ears always.
And she hated the Pianist for that with her Guts. She hated her even more for it, that she could not touch her, or any of her People. Von der Marwitz had been very clear, about what would happen then.
“But what will happen now?” Tehani mused. She shivered involuntarily. This was a situation new to them: Confronted with Adversaries as they faced now. What would von der Marwitz do now? She had drawn a red line – with blood. Crawford had crossed that line …
Andrea noticed that their Opponents did not leave them out of their sights for even a second. Gabriella looked at her with a mixture of disgust and apprehension. To see her Handlers again clearly had some impact.
And there was that tall dark-haired Russian. Her skimpy red negligee reached midthigh. Romanova had endless, well-sculpted muscular legs. Andrea noticed the two Scars, a thin red line above the Russian´s left breast and a Harry-Potter-like Scar above her left brow. Both were not very old. Her Gun though did not waver. Not only one Millimetre’. It aimed between her eyes. That the Russian would shoot? She had no doubt.
Andrea´s Musings were interrupted by Birte and Christina Howard returning. Sarah McKenzie smiled ominously “Now Ladies, we will have some fun!” Her smile got broader “I want you to gag each other with your Socks!” The four Women looked at each other. And stared back at them. Doing nothing. Challenging their Captors.
The Canadian grinned – almost amused “Chris, why don´t you embellish one of the Ladies?” Chris could tell the Canadian had enormous fun “Gladly” the blonde smiled equally broadly and gave her gun to Anna “Please keep it for me!” The Russian grinned “Of course Chris!” She took the heavy gun with her left and aimed at Tehani.
Right between the Eyes.
With three quick steps Chris closed the Distance “Vernie is it right?” Crawford´s Operative looked with wide eyes at the tall blonde in the skimpy green Nightie holding a gleaming Katana in her right hand. Its tip pressed against her Larynx. This was not for show, this was the real deal. So, the Rumours about von der Marwitz were true! Vernie did not dare to move.
“Where should I begin Sarah?” the blonde asked the Canadian politely “Should I cut the right cheek or the left? What do you think?”
The Canadian made a good show of pondering the Question “I think Chris, start with the right cheek and we take it from there” The Canadian smiled “Maybe it will suffice” She shook her head “Such a shame to mar such a beautiful face.”
Vernie did not dare to move a muscle, even twitch. But Perrie and Andrea exchanged an alarmed look “We will comply, but spare Vernie!” Andrea spluttered “See?” Sarah McKenzie smiled at them. She turned to Chris “I think though an Object Lesson would be most instructive, don´t you think Chris?”
“Gladly” the tall blonde smiled coolly, gripped the blade firmly with two hands, and swung wide backward in a fluid motion. One could hear a needle falling in the Room. Vernie stared at the blonde; primordial fear made her freeze to ice.
The backhand stroke would sever her head from her shoulders. She looked at the gleaming blade and into Chris´ emerald, green Eyes. Chris struck. Vernie closed her Eyes. But she just felt a short sharp pain at the left side of her Neck.
Slowly she realized “I am still alive I have not been beheaded!” The blonde had just pulled the stroke at the last the very last moment so that the incredibly sharp blade left a superficial cut only. Vernie opened her Eyes: Chris von der Marwitz was ready to strike again.
Sarah McKenzie smiled coldly “Are we clear now?” She addressed the Assailants “Gag yourself now, or blondie´s next strike will be a killing stroke!” Chris decided to let that slide. The “Blondie”. Tentatively the four Women grabbed their socks from the floor, balled them up, and stuffed them into each other’s Mouths. Some gagging noises “They are not that fresh after all” Gabriella grinned.
The Canadian turned to Birte and Gabriella “Why don´t you tie those bitches up? I think a crotch strap is in order!” The German and the Chilean did not need a second invitation. The Captives were very docile now. The Object Lesson had made an Impression. Sarah McKenzie smiled – coldly.
As Birte and Gabriella were finished each Woman sported a large jaw breaking red Ballgag. Their Hands and Arms were welded behind their backs. The Crotch Strap was very tight. As Vernie could attest to. She mumbled something not very complimentary in her sock- and ball-gagged mouth.
“Enjoying your own taste bitch?” Gabriella quipped gleefully. She remembered the taste of Vernie´s socks well – from her time on Mystery Island, Elizabeth Crawford´s Base in the Mediterranean – not far from the Ligurian Coast.
Chris smiled and looked at her Watch and stifled a Yawn “I need my beauty sleep, so why don´t we transfer our Guests to the two holding Cells in the Cellars on the second level and bag them? We have four sets of the enhanced restraining System down there. There are only rats in the holding cells” She eyed the Captives up and down “They should get along well!”
Chris smiled at her Friends.
“Who volunteers to escort the four Ladies?”
It was no surprise, that Gabriella and Christina volunteered – they had a Score to settle. They were joined by Kate, Birte, and Sophie.
Natalie stared at the cobalt blue ceiling; she had come around early enough to hear what transpired in their Room. She mumbled something in her Gag.
The Thief nodded at Natalie´s and Charlotte´s bagged bodies:
“Should we unbag them? And inform Kirsty and Hayley?” Sarah smiled “No” Chris smiled back “Natalie and Charlotte do enjoy a stint in the Bags, and we do not need to disturb the brides. That can wait till tomorrow!”
Natalie mumbled something in her Gag “The Pianist grinned “You might give them something to relax a bit – I was told Natalie loves to play with Chloroform!”
“Your wish is my command Lady of the Swords!” The Canadian bowed mockingly.
“You are too kind!” Chris smiled without missing a beat.
The beaming face of the Thief appeared in Natalie´s Vision, holding a thick Cloth in her right – by the smell heavily doused with Chloroform “I heard you love playing with Chloroform – let´s play ….”
Sarah held the Cloth over Natalie's face, so it hovered Centimetres over her gagged Face. The Detective got a good Whiff of the potent Fumes. That made her lightheaded. The Canadian took the Cloth away and repeated the Procedure. Three Times, each time a little closer.
Natalie got lightheaded. The Black Lady took the Cloth away and allowed Natalie to clear her head – the Thief waited. And pressed finally the chloroform-doused Cloth fully and firmly on the Detective´s face. Sarah McKenzie counted till thirty and took the Cloth away.
Natalie´s Eyes were already clouded by the Effects of the Drug “She is good!” Natalie mused. Five Minutes later the Detective was out. The Canadian grinned and looked around and inspected the luggage of Crawford´s People “Eureka!” she grinned. There were noise-cancelling earbuds, a heavily padded Sleepmask, and a Spandex Hood. The Thief set to Work.
On the left side of the Bed, Charlotte made questioning noises “Don´t worry it will be your turn next the Canadian grinned. 10 Minutes later she left the Room ….
The second level of the Manor´s Cellar, around the same Time:
Gabriella was surprised. She had not expected the Ghosts of Christmas Past this Weekend. It had touched her though, to see her former Handlers again, the Chilean smiled “I will not let go that opportunity to Waste.
They had blindfolded Crawford´s Team and led them down to the Cellars. Now and then encouraging their Captives with a slap on the butt to hurry. Now they stood before the first of the holding Cells.
Sophie opened the Door, and they ushered their “Guests” inside.
Andrea cursed inwardly. The Floor was icy cold under her bare soles – and the Crotch Strap cut deep into her with every step. The Cell was a Room, built of black polished Marble Ashlars. Two Cots and a Door which probably led to a Bathroom. Two Cots. On the Marble Floor two sets of the Enhanced restraining System with all other Items needed ….
Kate grinned “Looks like Chris expected Trouble everything is prepared!” Gabriella smiled “She is very perceptive!” The Detective smiled “That she is!” The American took the lead “We will prepare two of our Guests here and the other two next door!”
She looked at Vernie and Andrea “You two stay here!” The Detective turned to Tehani and Perrie “Get down on the floor! Birte and Sophie will hogtie you till we have bagged your friends!”
“And no Shenanigans!” Gabriella added sweetly “Or we leave you here to rot! Clear?” She looked sternly at Tehani and Perrie. The two Women nodded “Glad we settled that” the tall Chilenean smiled.
Soon Tehani and Perrie found themselves hogtied with zip-ties rocking backwards and forwards on the floor … while their Handlers were taking Care of Perrie and Andrea. Tehani drooled on the floor and the socks in her mouth tasted awfully … Their Captors had not spared with the Zip Ties.
She watched as Vernie and Andrea were manhandled into the Bags “How does it feel to be at the receiving end?” Gabriella quipped while she gagged Andrea …
The Chilean definitely enjoyed that moment very much.
Tehani had to admit though that their Captors did a thoroughly professional Job. Their Captors were not the absolute Problem … Crawford would be anything but pleased if she would learn about their failure. And Crawford did not forgive lightly …
Chris Room:
Chris pulled her Covers over her and slept in almost instantly “That had been quite the exciting day!” was one of her last thoughts before she fell into a deep and dreamless sleep.
A broad smile curled the lips of the sleeping blonde Woman. Everything was going according to plan.
After all, what had transpired since January? Chris had enjoyed the last 48 Hours immensely. And the most important thing of all?
Kirsty and Hayley had too.
Chapter Three:
“The Ghosts from Christmas Past”
Well after midnight:
Outside Bernstein Manor:
“The Ghosts from Christmas Past”
Well after midnight:
Outside Bernstein Manor:
Four Shadows hurried across the Front Patio of Bernstein Manor. Each Shadow wore a large backpack. Stealthily they crept up to the massive two-winged Front Door. The first Shadow entered a Code into a Pad. With a soft click, the massive Door swung open almost noiselessly.
The Leader breathed in deeply with relief. So, the Information they had obtained by some good old-fashioned blackmail had been correct. The four Shadows communicated through hand signs. The way they acted, and the way they moved betrayed the trained Professionals – this wasn´t clearly not their first black op.
The four Intruders hurried inside. Now came the tricky Part: Their Targets were located on the first Floor. They had to act quickly and stealthily. They were on enemy territory. And their Counterparts were far from defenceless. The Elements of Surprise and Stealth were key. This was a high-risk black Operation. The Leader suppressed a slight feeling of anxiety – despite the many successful Operations she and her Teammates had pulled off.
Elegantly and as smoothly as large Cats the four entirely black-clad Women hurried up the large, curved Stair Well. At the topmost Stair, they stopped, and the Leader listened intently. The long Corridor was silent. Carefully they stepped forward. The Room of their Targets was the third on the right side.
Before the Door, they stopped. It was not entirely closed. From inside soft snoring sounds could be heard, from two Women. The Leader pushed the Door gently open. She pointed at herself, at another, and on the right Side of the large King Size Bed. The other two Shadows moved to the peacefully sleeping Woman on the left.
Then both Duos pounced. Their Targets stood no Chance as thick Cloths, doused with Chloroform were pressed on their Faces. The four Assailants had many routine in subduing unsuspecting Damsels.
Finally, the feeble Struggles of the two Targets ceased. Their Attackers acted swiftly. They set their backpacks down – and removed several Items: Two downfilled suits, diapers, manacles, and panel gags. Two Women opened four Compression Sacks and removed heavy downfilled Bags. As they lofted up the four Women set two Work.
In perfect Synchronicity, the four Women acted. And prepared the Targets, which meant: They stripped them naked first, before putting Diapers on them, manhandled them in a down-filled suit, and restrained and gagged them with heavy large Panel Gags, the latest Model with an even larger Foam Ball in its Center, highly effective Bondage Mittens, broad heavily padded Shackles, made of Lycra and Leather, and heavily padded Straps.
Eight for each Damsels. One of the Women pulled the Straps restraining the Woman on the right side extremely tight – with relish. She definitely enjoyed her job.
The Leader listened: So far everything had worked according to Plan. Now they had to put the two Women into the Bags – and then came the real tricky Part: Spiriting them down the Stairwell and to the nondescript black Van ….
A little earlier:
Sarah McKenzie´s Suite:
Sarah McKenzie could not tell what woke her up. Next to her, Natasha Bolkonskaya was snoring softly. Previously the Master Thief had hogtied the tall athletic black-haired Russian with silken scarves. Many Silk Scarves. From her big toes and insteps upwards. Including a tightly knotted crotch Scarf and a crushing Elbow Tie.
Natasha had served her with her most talented tongue. The large Ring Gag had been a good Choice – the Canadian smiled. That the dominant Russian was inclined to be a Sub had its Merits. “So, I have been right!” The Thief had teased the Russian “You are a Switch!” And pressed Bolkonskaya´s head more firmly against her Crotch “A talented one” she whispered hoarsely “Continue!”
Now Natasha was loosely bound with Silk scarves around her wrists and ankles. The Gag was a light one considering the Canadian´s high Standards: Sarah had gagged her with a large red silken Scarf with a large knot in it – after she had stuffed her own Panties in Natasha´s Mouth.
“Concentrate!” she admonished herself. Her Spider Sense warned her of grave Danger …. And Sarah McKenzie trusted her Guts always.
There had been a noise …
The Canadian was sure to have heard something … almost noiselessly she got up. She wore a black negligée which ended just over the knees. McKenzie grabbed her gun from her nightstand. It laid always there.
Silently and as noiseless as a ghost she left her Room. And listened.
On her right was Natalies and Charlotte's Suite, the door stood slightly ajar, and a beam of light fell on the dark floor. The Thief crept near and peered through the opening: She could not see much, but what she heard was enough, the unmistakable sounds of subduing a woman: The sounds were heavily muffled.
And subsided quickly …
Quickly and stealthily the Master Thief retreated and hurried as silently as possible down the Corridor to Chris´ Room. Carefully she opened the door. Sarah McKenzie switched on the light. It was always fascinating: One moment the Pianist was sleeping peacefully, the next her emerald-green Eyes fixated on her “She seems not surprised in the slightest!” The Canadian suppressed a Grin.
Another Trademark: The Pianist was quick on the Uptake and did not ask superfluous Questions:
Chris noticed the Gun in her Hand. Quickly she pulled her Covers aside and got up – in one fluid movement. Her short green negligée graced the onlooker with a good view of her tanned muscular thighs “Trouble?” she whispered “Natalie´s Room” The Thief whispered back “How many?” the blonde asked “Four!” Chris nodded “I get Anna and Gabriella – you keep an eye on them!” The Pianist walked to the small table where the two boxes with the Katanas lay. She opened the black lacquered box and took the Katana her Sensei had presented her with.
Almost noiseless in an elegant fluid movement she drew the blade out of its scabbard with her right. She grabbed her HK 23 with her left Hand and followed the Thief. Their bare feet made almost no noise on the Carpet. Chris turned left and vanished into the Darkness like a Ghost, melted with the Shadows, became Part of them.
The Canadian took Position next to Natalie´s and Charlotte´s Room from which she could shoot anybody coming out. A grim smile curled her lips. Whoever was in there? They were in for a surprise … This Situation was one of those The Dark Lady loved, she was good at that Game.
She looked down the Corridor in the other direction and could make out three shadows in the Darkness: Chris, followed by Anna and Gabriella. The tall Russian and the equally tall Chilean had gripped their handguns tightly.
Anna carried a fifth Generation Glock 17, and Gabriella a SIG Sauer P 226. Sarah McKenzie grinned: The three Amazons were quite the sight: Barefoot, short Negligées, Weapons firmly in their Hands.
“Charlie´s three Angels!” The Masterthief chuckled inwardly. Normally she was no fan of Remakes, but this one would be an exception.
The Canadian pointed at the Door then at herself and held three fingers in the Air. Three, two, one … Sarah McKenzie kicked the door forcefully open and charged into the Room Chris, Anna, and Gabriella on her Heels.
Four black-clad Intruders wheeled around. Their heads were covered by Black Balaclavas. Two of them had been in the Process of bagging Charlotte in the second Restraining Bag. Natalie was already secured completely in baby blue bags.
The Quartet starred in total shock at the business ends of four heavy Handguns and the tip of a gleaming Katana. The black-haired Canadian smiled that dangerous cold smile “It is impolite not to knock at the Door”.
She motioned with the Gun to a point next to the bed – at a safe Distance “Move your sorry Asses there and keep your hands where we can see them!” The four Assailants did not move “Now!” the Thief spoke calmly but with a coldness and menace in her voice that would have made hardened Warriors wet their Pants.
Tentatively the four Women moved away from the bed. A very muffled moan indicated that Natalie was coming around again. Chris smiled coldly. They had gotten the Intruders entirely by surprise.
She looked them up and down. They were obviously fit; she concluded. The Chilean interrupted them “These are Crawfords People!” Gabriella exclaimed excitedly – “I know at least two of them!”
Sarah McKenzie smiled ominously “Then let´s find out who is under those fashionable Balaclavas!” With delight the Thief noticed the Intruders were shifting uncomfortably under her Gaze.
“Remove your balaclavas – slowly!” The Thief commanded, her Gun trained at the Woman in the Middle, between the Eyes, “And no sudden movements – I am a bit twitchy” Her smile would have made an Ice Bear shiver “And the Lady with the Katana will cut off your head before you have made one move, we don´t like!”
The blonde smiled ominously and whirled her blade through the Air, incredibly swiftly. Her left hand held the HK 23 steady and aimed right between the second Woman's eyes from the left.
Tentatively the Woman at the utmost right removed her Balaclava. The others followed suit. Chris and her Companions looked at four Women, two brown-haired, one redhead, and one woman with short black Hair.
“I will be damned” Gabriella whispered, the Chilean stared at the four assailants “These are from left to right: Andrea, Tehiani, Perrie, and Vernie! They are among Crawford´s most experienced and best people!”
Crawford did have the Audacity to try to spoil Kirsty´s and Hayley´s Wedding? Chris was pissed off. Royally pissed off. A split ear had not been enough … After Crawford´s last Scheme to get back at Hayley and Kirsty? The Pianist had delivered a stern Warning: Touch Hayley and Kirsty again and it will be the last thing you ever do …She looked each of the four Women in the Eye, fixating them, sternly hard and unforgiving.
“Let us cut this short!” Chris addressed the Assailants curtly – in that cool and controlled manner that was a sign of impending doom “You will strip now, slowly without sudden Movements!”
“F*ck you B*tch!” Andrea challenged her hotly.
Chris and Anna exchanged a look: Anna pulled the Trigger. The Projectile graced Andrea´s left Temple. The Russian changed her Aim: The next shot would hit the other Woman squarely between the Eyes. The heavy Gun did not weaver a Millimetre.
“Anything else to say?” Anna´s voice was as cold as Glacier. Andrea froze. She looked the Russian in the Eye – and saw a steely resolve there. Andrea realized: The Russian would shoot her the next time “This should have been a simple easy Mission: In and out ….” She cursed inwardly. It was clearly not.
Noises on the Floor indicated that the Shot had woken some People.
“You heard the Lady!” The Thief smiled ominously “Strip! There will be no third Invitation! You can keep your Bra and Panties!” Strained silence greeted that announcement. The Thief aimed at the feet of the Woman on the right. The Gun Shot rang eerily loud, the Projectile pierced the Floor, next to her right Foot.
Tentatively the four Women began to disrobe.
Five Minutes later Birte and Kate, followed by Christina and Sophie charged into the Room. Guns drawn. The Intruders had stripped to their underwear in the meantime “What have we here?” Kate looked at Chris “Later” The Pianist explained calmly, “Birte and Christina get zip ties, lots of them, and Ballgags – the largest you can find!”
The Detective and Christina Howard left.
Tehani found the Blonde´s smile rivalled that of the black-haired Canadian when it came to the creepiness. She had never seen somebody wielding a sword except in Movies. But the way the tall Blonde handled the Sword betrayed the Professional.
She knew that von der Marwitz had almost beheaded her Boss, but in the last Moment changed the direction of the Stroke, so the Blade had just cut off Crawford's left Earlobe. Since then, Crawford wore her hair so long it covered her Ears always.
And she hated the Pianist for that with her Guts. She hated her even more for it, that she could not touch her, or any of her People. Von der Marwitz had been very clear, about what would happen then.
“But what will happen now?” Tehani mused. She shivered involuntarily. This was a situation new to them: Confronted with Adversaries as they faced now. What would von der Marwitz do now? She had drawn a red line – with blood. Crawford had crossed that line …
Andrea noticed that their Opponents did not leave them out of their sights for even a second. Gabriella looked at her with a mixture of disgust and apprehension. To see her Handlers again clearly had some impact.
And there was that tall dark-haired Russian. Her skimpy red negligee reached midthigh. Romanova had endless, well-sculpted muscular legs. Andrea noticed the two Scars, a thin red line above the Russian´s left breast and a Harry-Potter-like Scar above her left brow. Both were not very old. Her Gun though did not waver. Not only one Millimetre’. It aimed between her eyes. That the Russian would shoot? She had no doubt.
Andrea´s Musings were interrupted by Birte and Christina Howard returning. Sarah McKenzie smiled ominously “Now Ladies, we will have some fun!” Her smile got broader “I want you to gag each other with your Socks!” The four Women looked at each other. And stared back at them. Doing nothing. Challenging their Captors.
The Canadian grinned – almost amused “Chris, why don´t you embellish one of the Ladies?” Chris could tell the Canadian had enormous fun “Gladly” the blonde smiled equally broadly and gave her gun to Anna “Please keep it for me!” The Russian grinned “Of course Chris!” She took the heavy gun with her left and aimed at Tehani.
Right between the Eyes.
With three quick steps Chris closed the Distance “Vernie is it right?” Crawford´s Operative looked with wide eyes at the tall blonde in the skimpy green Nightie holding a gleaming Katana in her right hand. Its tip pressed against her Larynx. This was not for show, this was the real deal. So, the Rumours about von der Marwitz were true! Vernie did not dare to move.
“Where should I begin Sarah?” the blonde asked the Canadian politely “Should I cut the right cheek or the left? What do you think?”
The Canadian made a good show of pondering the Question “I think Chris, start with the right cheek and we take it from there” The Canadian smiled “Maybe it will suffice” She shook her head “Such a shame to mar such a beautiful face.”
Vernie did not dare to move a muscle, even twitch. But Perrie and Andrea exchanged an alarmed look “We will comply, but spare Vernie!” Andrea spluttered “See?” Sarah McKenzie smiled at them. She turned to Chris “I think though an Object Lesson would be most instructive, don´t you think Chris?”
“Gladly” the tall blonde smiled coolly, gripped the blade firmly with two hands, and swung wide backward in a fluid motion. One could hear a needle falling in the Room. Vernie stared at the blonde; primordial fear made her freeze to ice.
The backhand stroke would sever her head from her shoulders. She looked at the gleaming blade and into Chris´ emerald, green Eyes. Chris struck. Vernie closed her Eyes. But she just felt a short sharp pain at the left side of her Neck.
Slowly she realized “I am still alive I have not been beheaded!” The blonde had just pulled the stroke at the last the very last moment so that the incredibly sharp blade left a superficial cut only. Vernie opened her Eyes: Chris von der Marwitz was ready to strike again.
Sarah McKenzie smiled coldly “Are we clear now?” She addressed the Assailants “Gag yourself now, or blondie´s next strike will be a killing stroke!” Chris decided to let that slide. The “Blondie”. Tentatively the four Women grabbed their socks from the floor, balled them up, and stuffed them into each other’s Mouths. Some gagging noises “They are not that fresh after all” Gabriella grinned.
The Canadian turned to Birte and Gabriella “Why don´t you tie those bitches up? I think a crotch strap is in order!” The German and the Chilean did not need a second invitation. The Captives were very docile now. The Object Lesson had made an Impression. Sarah McKenzie smiled – coldly.
As Birte and Gabriella were finished each Woman sported a large jaw breaking red Ballgag. Their Hands and Arms were welded behind their backs. The Crotch Strap was very tight. As Vernie could attest to. She mumbled something not very complimentary in her sock- and ball-gagged mouth.
“Enjoying your own taste bitch?” Gabriella quipped gleefully. She remembered the taste of Vernie´s socks well – from her time on Mystery Island, Elizabeth Crawford´s Base in the Mediterranean – not far from the Ligurian Coast.
Chris smiled and looked at her Watch and stifled a Yawn “I need my beauty sleep, so why don´t we transfer our Guests to the two holding Cells in the Cellars on the second level and bag them? We have four sets of the enhanced restraining System down there. There are only rats in the holding cells” She eyed the Captives up and down “They should get along well!”
Chris smiled at her Friends.
“Who volunteers to escort the four Ladies?”
It was no surprise, that Gabriella and Christina volunteered – they had a Score to settle. They were joined by Kate, Birte, and Sophie.
Natalie stared at the cobalt blue ceiling; she had come around early enough to hear what transpired in their Room. She mumbled something in her Gag.
The Thief nodded at Natalie´s and Charlotte´s bagged bodies:
“Should we unbag them? And inform Kirsty and Hayley?” Sarah smiled “No” Chris smiled back “Natalie and Charlotte do enjoy a stint in the Bags, and we do not need to disturb the brides. That can wait till tomorrow!”
Natalie mumbled something in her Gag “The Pianist grinned “You might give them something to relax a bit – I was told Natalie loves to play with Chloroform!”
“Your wish is my command Lady of the Swords!” The Canadian bowed mockingly.
“You are too kind!” Chris smiled without missing a beat.
The beaming face of the Thief appeared in Natalie´s Vision, holding a thick Cloth in her right – by the smell heavily doused with Chloroform “I heard you love playing with Chloroform – let´s play ….”
Sarah held the Cloth over Natalie's face, so it hovered Centimetres over her gagged Face. The Detective got a good Whiff of the potent Fumes. That made her lightheaded. The Canadian took the Cloth away and repeated the Procedure. Three Times, each time a little closer.
Natalie got lightheaded. The Black Lady took the Cloth away and allowed Natalie to clear her head – the Thief waited. And pressed finally the chloroform-doused Cloth fully and firmly on the Detective´s face. Sarah McKenzie counted till thirty and took the Cloth away.
Natalie´s Eyes were already clouded by the Effects of the Drug “She is good!” Natalie mused. Five Minutes later the Detective was out. The Canadian grinned and looked around and inspected the luggage of Crawford´s People “Eureka!” she grinned. There were noise-cancelling earbuds, a heavily padded Sleepmask, and a Spandex Hood. The Thief set to Work.
On the left side of the Bed, Charlotte made questioning noises “Don´t worry it will be your turn next the Canadian grinned. 10 Minutes later she left the Room ….
The second level of the Manor´s Cellar, around the same Time:
Gabriella was surprised. She had not expected the Ghosts of Christmas Past this Weekend. It had touched her though, to see her former Handlers again, the Chilean smiled “I will not let go that opportunity to Waste.
They had blindfolded Crawford´s Team and led them down to the Cellars. Now and then encouraging their Captives with a slap on the butt to hurry. Now they stood before the first of the holding Cells.
Sophie opened the Door, and they ushered their “Guests” inside.
Andrea cursed inwardly. The Floor was icy cold under her bare soles – and the Crotch Strap cut deep into her with every step. The Cell was a Room, built of black polished Marble Ashlars. Two Cots and a Door which probably led to a Bathroom. Two Cots. On the Marble Floor two sets of the Enhanced restraining System with all other Items needed ….
Kate grinned “Looks like Chris expected Trouble everything is prepared!” Gabriella smiled “She is very perceptive!” The Detective smiled “That she is!” The American took the lead “We will prepare two of our Guests here and the other two next door!”
She looked at Vernie and Andrea “You two stay here!” The Detective turned to Tehani and Perrie “Get down on the floor! Birte and Sophie will hogtie you till we have bagged your friends!”
“And no Shenanigans!” Gabriella added sweetly “Or we leave you here to rot! Clear?” She looked sternly at Tehani and Perrie. The two Women nodded “Glad we settled that” the tall Chilenean smiled.
Soon Tehani and Perrie found themselves hogtied with zip-ties rocking backwards and forwards on the floor … while their Handlers were taking Care of Perrie and Andrea. Tehani drooled on the floor and the socks in her mouth tasted awfully … Their Captors had not spared with the Zip Ties.
She watched as Vernie and Andrea were manhandled into the Bags “How does it feel to be at the receiving end?” Gabriella quipped while she gagged Andrea …
The Chilean definitely enjoyed that moment very much.
Tehani had to admit though that their Captors did a thoroughly professional Job. Their Captors were not the absolute Problem … Crawford would be anything but pleased if she would learn about their failure. And Crawford did not forgive lightly …
Chris Room:
Chris pulled her Covers over her and slept in almost instantly “That had been quite the exciting day!” was one of her last thoughts before she fell into a deep and dreamless sleep.
A broad smile curled the lips of the sleeping blonde Woman. Everything was going according to plan.
After all, what had transpired since January? Chris had enjoyed the last 48 Hours immensely. And the most important thing of all?
Kirsty and Hayley had too.
Last edited by Caesar73 3 days ago, edited 1 time in total.
WOW! This is even better than your normal, utterly superb, standard. Loved this.
I'm making my way through this story, @Caesar73. I am ready to begin Chapter 2. You have put together an amazing mix of characters.
A List of my stories:An Unlikely Savior Completed
Spy Task Force Completed
Tale of an Archer Completed
The Bandit Scout on Newhome updated 05/30/23
Thank you Grandmaster @GreyLord ! I am glad if this works out. I find keeping all Threads together a challenge. Keeping track was difficult. But writing was - and is fun. So far we had Fun and Games mostly. The next Chapters will focus more on situations and conversations. The Guests arriving, the Families of the Brides. Hayley is the offspring of an old East Coast Patrician Family with Irish Roots, Kirsty´s Family comes from Rural Norfolk. Kirsty made only recently Contact with her Family - after she returned with Hayley after sixteen Years. Have a look here:
https://www.deviantart.com/imhotep-ra/a ... -972845888
So Things will get interestings
Interesting subplot that interrupts the main events. Alas, these ladies are too used to danger to simply sleep through their own executions like that.
CGC Short Stories (F+f+/F+f+): viewtopic.php?f=8&t=20527
Find my other CGC Stories in the same link above!
Find my other CGC Stories in the same link above!
Fantastic read as always Grandmaster @Caesar73. Though I’m sure a certain Mr Dickens never planned such adventures for his characters when the ghost of Christmas past arrived
Thank you my friend! I am glad you enjoyed this Chapter
And yes, Charles Dicken's Ghost is quite different from those entering Bernstein Manor this night. They have one thing in common though: They are creepy as hell.We will find out, what Chris has planned for their involuntary Guests and their Boss - after the Wedding Night : Crawford crossed a line written with blood. There will be the devil to pay.
In the next Chapters though, the focus may shift. Not on revenge but on the Wedding to celebrate. The Families of the Brides and their Friends are about to arrive soon. Lots of Conversations, Situations .... and the occasional rope play ....
Great chapter. Caught me by surprise that the four intruders, having made it so far and to all appearances executed a successful kidnapping.
Were themselves caught
Were themselves caught
They were a bit too sure of themselves
And Chris and her Friends are no tame Lions after all Those Lions have Claws The next Chapter shall be online at Sunday at the latest. The Wedding is fast approaching. The Guests arrive. Final Preparations are being made ...
They certainly do
And, great. It's good to be able to get into this story from the go. Too daunting the thought of picking up something already many chapters advanced, as your other stuff is, so I made sure to pick this one up when you began.
Thank you for reading from the beginning @RopeBunny Yes, somehow I cannot do short The Wedding itself got considerably longer than anticipated. It is not yet finished - the Wedding Night is left to write
Yes, somehow I cannot do short The Wedding itself got considerably longer than anticipated. It is not yet finished - the Wedding Night is left to write @GreyLord @Bandit666 @banshee @Beaumains @Bigballgag1 @Trammel @wolfman @mrjones2009 @slackywacky @Nainur @TightsBound @Pantyhose971 @TayDay95 @NotSeen @Fandango @LunaDog @Argentum @h6hlh6h @algebrauk @RopeBunny
It was a peaceful sunny morning in late May at the Hamptons.
If one had a look at the long, flat, sandy Beach from the vast Western Patio of Bernstein Manor he or she would have seen, two tall Women strolling barefoot through the Surf hand in hand, conversing in low tones. Shoes in Hand. One a curvaceous blonde, one athletic auburn-haired. In their early Thirties.
“Who would have thought that Crawford would pull off such a Stunt?” Hayley scowled angrily “At our Wedding? Has she now shame? She acts always so classy, dignified!” The blonde scoffed.
“Lizzie holds Grudges you know” Kirsty shrugged dismissively “She cannot stand it, that you, that we are happy – and out of reach.” The Briton added calmly “We escaped her clutches, twice, three times? She cannot stand that. It is as simple as that.”
Kirsty pressed Hayley´s right hand firmly.
“Could be” The blonde nodded grudgingly and shook her head “I wonder about her Endgame though”.
“We will learn soon enough” The Briton chuckled mirthlessly “Sarah and Natasha can be very persuasive – and Kate is a Genius when it comes to interrogating Culprits!” Kirsty grinned “Especially when they have been softened up by McKenzie and Bolkonskaya”.
“They will say anything – as long as Natasha and Sarah leave them alone!” The blonde smiled “You bet!” Kirsty grinned. The Canadian´s and the Russian´s persuasive Skills were legendary.
At Breakfast Chris and Sarah had informed the Group about the Nights Events.
“Sarah, Natasha, and Kate will have a nice Conversation among old friends with our unwilling Guests” The blonde had smiled ominously “I, Anna, and Sophie will rehearse at the Chapel. Natalie and Charlotte will join us, to clear up a few last Details with Monsignore Don Pietro Cavalli.”
Hayley’s and Kirsty’s Conversation turned to happier Topics:
“Only 24 hours now my love” Hayley pressed her soon-to-be wife's right Hand “Unbelievable” Kirsty smiled warmly. The Briton shook her head slightly. At times the last days felt like a Dream.
The blonde sensed Kirsty was tense – even if she did a hell of a job to cover it. Kirsty gazed at the endless Sea “I am a bit afraid of meeting my family you know” Her voice was trailing away. She felt the surf whirling gently around her feet, her feet sinking deeper in the sand as the surf was washing the sand away under her soles ….
That Feeling brought Memories back: Long walks at rural Norfolk´s Beaches ….
“Says the Woman, decorated with the Victoria Cross, who is always in the midst of a fight to the death” Hayley teased her “Everything will be fine” she reassured her Companion “Look” the blonde gripped Kirsty´s left hand “They all come, even your younger Sister.”
“Except Rose” Kirsty stated dryly. Rose .... Kirsty sighed. On their Trip down memory lane in February last year to rural Norfolk because Hayley had wanted to learn more about Kirsty’s roots, Rose had tried to murder her older Sister, by drowning her in the bathtub.
https://www.deviantart.com/imhotep-ra/a ... -978809290
Hayley and Kate had saved her in the last Second. To inform her older Brother Brian about this Event was one of the most difficult Calls Kirsty had ever made.
Rose had been sentenced to life last September. She had shown no remorse. Kirsty shuddered as she remembered the intense hate in Rose's cold grey eyes when Kirsty had taken the Stand. She had insisted on that.
But that was just Kirsty, Hayley smiled “What you are smiling about?” Kirsty could not hide, she was tense.
“Nothing” the blonde demurred smiling broadly “I just thought about the Moment Grand Ma meets Anna and Chris ....”
Now Kirsty smiled “That will be a Moment for the Books”.
“Come!” Hayley smiled back – and they continued their stroll along the Beach.
Bernstein Estate:
Chapel of the Holy Trinity, five Minutes to Ten:
The Honourable Monsignore Don Pietro Cavalli SJ (Societas Jesu as in a Jesuit) was curious. This would be no “ordinary” or “proper” Roman Catholic Wedding – if there was any, ever. Any member of the fundamentalist Wing of the Church like the Spanish Opus Dei, would call hell and damnation upon the Brides.
He despised those bigoted self-righteous Fanatics.
He looked at his Watch:
The Musicians were supposed to arrive to rehearse a final Time shortly. A Pianist, a Violinist, and a Mezzo-Soprano.
At 1200 the Choir would arrive, to rehearse with the other Musicians. The Kingdom Choir under the Direction of Karen Gibson. The same Choir who had performed at the Wedding of the Duke and the Duchesse of Sussex in 2018.
'Stand by Me' performed by Karen Gibson and The Kingdom Choir - The Royal Wedding - BBC (youtube.com)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AyFlLjdNqk8
The Choir had delivered a stunning Performance of “Stand by Me” back then. Monsignore Cavalli had heard Rumours that TRH´s the Prince and the Princess of Wales had pulled some strings to make the Choir available for the Wedding of Kirsty Garrett and Hayley King. He had also heard a Story about a Private Concert at Buckingham Palace …. where they had met TRH …. The Brides had intimated as much.
The Hunt for the Lost Scrolls: Chapter 38 by Imhotep-Ra on DeviantArt
https://www.deviantart.com/imhotep-ra/a ... -963864454
HRH, the Princess of Wales, was currently undergoing adjuvant Chemotherapy after she had been diagnosed with Cancer after major abdominal surgery in January. A devout Monarchist Don Cavalli prayed for HRH´s full recovery.
Her courage to share her Diagnosis with the World in a very personal Message he admired. It told a lot about HRH´s Character.
The Monsignore thought about the Musicians …
As a great Connoisseur of Classical Music, the Pianist and the Violinist were not unknown to him, though he had not heard them perform live. The Mezzo-Soprano, Sophie Reichenbach, he did not know. As he had learned, a brilliant Lawyer by Profession, a highly successful District Attorney even, before she became Firm Lawyer of Art Incorporated, Sophie Reichenbach had recorded her first Solo Recital last Year – which had been praised by the Critique. She had sung Handel – and a selection of Songs of Dowland and Byrd.
(205) J. Dowland: Come Again, Sweet Love - Joyce DiDonato, Gianluca Geremia - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43sAA4Ld21I
With Detective Natalie Twain-Saltzmann with the NYPD, he had been in close Contact for a few Months. As Don Cavalli understood Natalie Twain-Saltzman and Christine von der Marwitz were the Wedding-Planers, though he had only been in direct Contact with the tough Detective.
“Why have I agreed to officiate this, Wedding?” he thought.
The Answer was simple:
Don Cavalli and Commissioner Seamus King, Hayley King´s Father, went way back. He was deep in his debt. As a young Priest, his Parish in the Bronx had been threatened by local Gangs.
Back then Detective Seamus King had taken decisive Action – without hesitation. So, it had been a Question of Honour to Him, when the latter had approached him, to officiate the Wedding of his only Daughter. He knew that the Commissioner would do anything to see his Daughter happy – especially after the Death of Hayley´s Mother:
Hayley´s Mother, Bethany, had died of Cancer at the Age of 40. Her premature death had forged a close bond between Father and Daughter, which had grown over time. Even when it seemed that Hayley had gone rogue.
Notice to the reader: Read for more AliasMrJones Nothing Personal Saga, beginning with Part 4.
What had surprised the Monsignore? The Brides got a dispensation easily.
Someone had to have pulled some strings, someone with a lot of Juice: Same-Sex-Marriages were still not official Doctrine of the Roman Catholic Church. The Monsignore had a shrewd guess who had pulled said Strings.
He smiled: Hayley King would be surprised when she would learn. The Monsignore knew a secret about the Commissioner, the latter had well-guarded ….
Cavalli did not share the Belief that same-sex Couples should not get the Blessing of the Holy Church. The current Doctrine of the Holy Mother Church felt not right to him. As a Christian and as a Priest.
As a Member of the Jesuits, he was more broadminded, possessing two Doctor Grades. One in Theology and one in Canon Law.
If two people loved each other, really loved each other? The Holy Mother should give her blessing. That was his personal Credo. He sighed. Sometimes the Church was like a Supertanker. To change its Course was like a Supertanker coming to a halt at full speed. It took Miles. Miles and Time. Much Time. But Don Cavalli sensed the Wind, the Wind of Change.
More of a soft breeze actually. He smiled dryly.
He had met the Brides three Times in New York. The Jesuit had been impressed by that unlikely Couple – very much—the Daughter of the Commissioner of New York and a Girl from rural Norfolk in Great Britain. One was born into an East Coast Patrician Family and the other Offspring of a dysfunctional Family who had trouble making a living. The Father abusive and an alcoholic.
A sharp Contrast no doubt, but Cavalli had concluded quickly that their love was as deep as it was honest as it was sincere – after he learned their Story. He had been impressed – and during his Career, he had heard many Stories.
The Couple had been quite frank about how they had met – but the Monsignore knew the World – and so he had kept a straight Face when the Brides had told him about some aspects of their relationship ... Hayley King had blushed when she explained the Concept of the Enhanced Restraining System. The Honourable Monsignore Don Pietro Cavalli had not.
The opening of the two-winged Church Door interrupted his Musings.
Five Women entered. In the lead was an imposing tall blonde who had donned an emerald, green Summerdress, which swirled wide around her tanned sculpted Calves. Christine von der Marwitz reminded him of a Greek statue from her classical features down to her purple painted Toenails. Her muscular shoulders she had covered with a matching scarf. On her feet, she wore Birkenstocks – also in tone. He noticed the piercing emerald-green eyes. He had read about them.
Even from the Distance Cavalli sensed the enormous Presence of the blonde. The Vatican had a Dossier about the Pianist – it had been an interesting read. The latest entries had been -he searched for a word – fascinating.
The Quest for a Mystical Weapon of Mass Destruction? No, Cavalli decided, disturbing was more like it. There were things he was supposed not to believe as a true Son of the Church. But the Proof was incontrovertible.
The Hunt for the Lost Scrolls: Chapter 95 by Imhotep-Ra on DeviantArt
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Her dark-haired Companion was even taller. Clad similarly to the blonde, but in black. Around her Neck, the Priest recognized a strange Penchant – a Udjat-Penchant if the Reports were correct. In her right hand, she carried a Violin Case. A Stradivarius he knew. The famous Lord Dunn Raven.
“Sophia Loren in Arabesque,” Cavalli thought baffled as he looked at the third Woman. The Resemblance to the Italian Legend was striking. Even if Sophie Reichenbach was taller than Sophia Loren. Not quite as tall as her two Companions, but over average. Keen catlike green eyes fixated on him.
“That has to be the Singer,” the Monsignore thought. He had read the Biography of Sophie Reichenbach and knew about her Italian Roots.
The smiling Natalie Twain Salzman and her Wife Charlotte brought up the rear.
“Monsignore!” Natalie smiled broadly at the Priest “Nice to see you again!”
“May I introduce to you!” Beaming the brunette pointed at Chris “Chris von der Marwitz, Anna Romanova, and Sophie Reichenbach!”
“It is an honour and a pleasure” Cavalli bowed slightly and to Chris's complete surprise he executed a perfect Handkiss – his lips only barely brushing her skin.
He greeted Anna and Sophie in the same way “Your Mother is Italian” he greeted Sophie with a warm smile and switched to Italian without missing a beat “Yes, Monsignore” Sophie returned warmly in Italian. They conversed shortly in Dante´s Language.
Chris loved it when Sophie spoke Italian. That melodious Mezzo! When Sophie spoke Italian it sounded like Music, like the Song of a Siren.
The blonde did not speak Italian fluently- but her listening comprehension was good enough to catch the drift of the Conversation. Sophie smiled warmly. From what Chris understood they talked about Sophie´s Italian Background.
The Pianist gave the Monsignore a closer look. The Honourable Don Pietro Cavalli worked out regularly. Under the perfectly tailored black suit with the Roman Collar, he must have the Physique of a Greek Marble Sculpture. Over seven feet tall, with short cropped grey hair he had to be in his early fifties Chris suspected. A clear-cut face. He reminded Chris of an ancient Roman Patrician.
He had felt Chris´ scrutinizing look. To Chris's surprise, he seemed neither intimidated nor scared. People usually did when the piercing glance of those emerald, green eyes rested on them.
Instead, he smiled warmly “I never had the pleasure of hearing you in Concert Signora von der Marwitz – but your Live-Recording of the Goldberg Variations is one of my Treasures!” “He means that” Chris concluded – and had to smile. This was indeed one of her finest recordings – a Concert at the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg.
ARTE Concert | Angela Hewitt spielt die Goldberg Variationen (youtube.com)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NybmG9xtLbE
“Thank you!” the blonde returned warmly “You have good Taste Monsignore!” She turned swiftly to Anna and Sophie “Get ready! The Choir will arrive in two hours’ time.” Cavalli was impressed. Now the blonde was complete business like “Monsignore” Natalie interrupted him “There are some minor details to discuss “Of course” the Priest nodded - absentmindedly.
His eyes though never left the three Musicians: Chris von der Marwitz opened the Piano, adjusted the seat, and sat down gracefully. The Pianist took off the Scarf covering her Shoulders. The Shoulders of an Athlete. She struck C 4. The clear, brilliant yet warm Sound stood in the Chapel and seemed to resonate in the Air. Chris played a full accord. With both Hands. Precise and clear.
The German was very pleased. The Quality of the Grand Piano met her Professional Standards. Normally she insisted on adjusting the Mechanic on her own – but this had not been possible this time. Whoever had done the tuning? They had done a good job. Minor adjustments she would do later.
The Russian Violinist opened her Violin Case and took the Stradivarius- as gently as a lover would touch his Companion – out of its Case, took up the bow, and prepared to play. Sophie Reichenbach´s warm, dark Mezzo filled the Chapelle easily as she warmed up.
The Preparations of the Musicians distracted Don Cavalli somewhat …He was a Man after all: Three beautiful Women in Summer Dresses, making such beautiful Music …
“Monsignore?” Natalie interrupted “Excuse me” Cavalli smiled “I was distracted” The Detective smiled knowingly “They can have that effect can´t they”.
Chris smiled. The Piano and its Mechanics. It reacted to her slightest touch, as she preferred it – an old Steinway, from 1938 - “Let us begin with the first piece the opening March!” the blonde announced.
She looked at Anna and smiled warmly. Sophie stood at the left side of the Grand Piano, her right hand resting on the black polished wood. She wore a light Summer Dress, in Prussian Blue and Birkenstocks too.
Chris nodded imperceptibly and began to play. Anna fell in. The Russian was always fascinated by how well they were in tune with together “True” she mused “We have played so many times together and yet I feel it a wonder still!” The warm radiant tone of the Lord Dunn Raven filled the Chapel.
Chris let the Violin shine, taking herself back. Now and then Anna and Chris looked at each other. The other knew what the other would do – always. They could have played blindfolded, and nobody would have known the difference.
The Introduction finished, Chris looked at Sophie – and the dark-haired Woman with Italian Roots intoned the Verses of Richard Wagner´s Lohengrin:
Wagner - Bridal Chorus (piano) (youtube.com)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0VASxTaaNw
Treulich geführt ziehet dahin,
wo euch der Segen der Liebe bewahr’!
Siegreicher Mut, Minnegewinn
eint euch in Treue zum seligsten Paar.
Streiter der Tugend, schreite voran!
Zierde der Jugend, schreite voran!
Rauschen des Festes seid nun entronnen,
Wonne des Herzens sei euch gewonnen!
Duftender Raum, zur Liebe geschmückt,
nehm’ euch nun auf, dem Glanze entrückt.
Treulich geführt ziehet nun ein,
wo euch der Segen der Liebe bewahr’!
Siegreicher Mut, Minne so rein
eint euch in Treue zum seligsten Paar.
Treulich bewacht bleibet zurück,
wo euch der Segen der Liebe bewahr’!
Siegreicher Mut, Minne und Glück
eint euch in Treue zum seligsten Paar.
Streiter der Tugend, bleibe daheim!
Zierde der Jugend, bleibe daheim!
Rauschen des Festes seid nun entronnen,
Wonne des Herzens sei euch gewonnen!
Duftender Raum, zur Liebe geschmückt,
nahm euch nun auf, dem Glanze entrückt.
Treulich bewacht bleibet zurück,
wo euch der Segen der Liebe bewahr’!
Siegreicher Mut, Minne und Glück
eint euch in Treue zum seligsten Paar.
Sophie smiled as she sang the last notes. This had felt good.
Applause cut into the Silence as the Monsignore clapped his Hands. Anna and Sophie bowed but Chris called them to order “Ladies we have some work to do!”
“You are a hard Task Master” Anna grinned – and took up her bow – again. Not that she was angry in the slightest. The highest Standards were just good enough. What had the famous Conductor Herbert von Karajan said: “If you reach your goals, you have not set them high enough!”
It was after they finished the Rehearsal when Don Cavalli approached Chris “That was marvellous” he smiled warmly “When I hear you play I like to think Music is really a Gift of God the Almighty” Chris smiled, and her tone was even “Forgive me Don Cavalli but since the Death of my Parents in a senseless Car Crash at the Amalfi Coast I do not believe anymore – at least not in the Christian God”.
To her surprise, the Priest replied evenly “In what do you believe then?” And Chris felt no judgment in his Words, just intellectual curiosity “I am a believer of the Eastern Philosophies” she added “Zen, Bushido” Don Cavalli nodded “I am looking forward to continuing our Conversation – but the Choir has just arrived” he smiled “And I am looking to hear how you accompany a Gospel Choir
“And you shall” Chris smiled back ….
“That Priest is interesting,” she thought.
Chris had to admit she was intrigued: There had been no Judgement. Not many devout religious people could deal with the fact that she did not believe in Jesus Christ. That Moment when Mrs. Mullova, a Violin Teacher at the Vienna Conservatory informed her about her Parent's Death in a Car Crash on the Amalfi Coast – it would be always with her. It had changed her life forever.
She concentrated on the Present:
Anna and Sophie exchanged a look, they had followed the Exchange between Chris and the Monsignore.
“Now Ladies! The Gospel!” Chris ordered.
Chapter 4
The Day before the Wedding:
Preparations
The next Morning, around 1000 AM:
The Day before the Wedding:
Preparations
The next Morning, around 1000 AM:
It was a peaceful sunny morning in late May at the Hamptons.
If one had a look at the long, flat, sandy Beach from the vast Western Patio of Bernstein Manor he or she would have seen, two tall Women strolling barefoot through the Surf hand in hand, conversing in low tones. Shoes in Hand. One a curvaceous blonde, one athletic auburn-haired. In their early Thirties.
“Who would have thought that Crawford would pull off such a Stunt?” Hayley scowled angrily “At our Wedding? Has she now shame? She acts always so classy, dignified!” The blonde scoffed.
“Lizzie holds Grudges you know” Kirsty shrugged dismissively “She cannot stand it, that you, that we are happy – and out of reach.” The Briton added calmly “We escaped her clutches, twice, three times? She cannot stand that. It is as simple as that.”
Kirsty pressed Hayley´s right hand firmly.
“Could be” The blonde nodded grudgingly and shook her head “I wonder about her Endgame though”.
“We will learn soon enough” The Briton chuckled mirthlessly “Sarah and Natasha can be very persuasive – and Kate is a Genius when it comes to interrogating Culprits!” Kirsty grinned “Especially when they have been softened up by McKenzie and Bolkonskaya”.
“They will say anything – as long as Natasha and Sarah leave them alone!” The blonde smiled “You bet!” Kirsty grinned. The Canadian´s and the Russian´s persuasive Skills were legendary.
At Breakfast Chris and Sarah had informed the Group about the Nights Events.
“Sarah, Natasha, and Kate will have a nice Conversation among old friends with our unwilling Guests” The blonde had smiled ominously “I, Anna, and Sophie will rehearse at the Chapel. Natalie and Charlotte will join us, to clear up a few last Details with Monsignore Don Pietro Cavalli.”
Hayley’s and Kirsty’s Conversation turned to happier Topics:
“Only 24 hours now my love” Hayley pressed her soon-to-be wife's right Hand “Unbelievable” Kirsty smiled warmly. The Briton shook her head slightly. At times the last days felt like a Dream.
The blonde sensed Kirsty was tense – even if she did a hell of a job to cover it. Kirsty gazed at the endless Sea “I am a bit afraid of meeting my family you know” Her voice was trailing away. She felt the surf whirling gently around her feet, her feet sinking deeper in the sand as the surf was washing the sand away under her soles ….
That Feeling brought Memories back: Long walks at rural Norfolk´s Beaches ….
“Says the Woman, decorated with the Victoria Cross, who is always in the midst of a fight to the death” Hayley teased her “Everything will be fine” she reassured her Companion “Look” the blonde gripped Kirsty´s left hand “They all come, even your younger Sister.”
“Except Rose” Kirsty stated dryly. Rose .... Kirsty sighed. On their Trip down memory lane in February last year to rural Norfolk because Hayley had wanted to learn more about Kirsty’s roots, Rose had tried to murder her older Sister, by drowning her in the bathtub.
https://www.deviantart.com/imhotep-ra/a ... -978809290
Hayley and Kate had saved her in the last Second. To inform her older Brother Brian about this Event was one of the most difficult Calls Kirsty had ever made.
Rose had been sentenced to life last September. She had shown no remorse. Kirsty shuddered as she remembered the intense hate in Rose's cold grey eyes when Kirsty had taken the Stand. She had insisted on that.
But that was just Kirsty, Hayley smiled “What you are smiling about?” Kirsty could not hide, she was tense.
“Nothing” the blonde demurred smiling broadly “I just thought about the Moment Grand Ma meets Anna and Chris ....”
Now Kirsty smiled “That will be a Moment for the Books”.
“Come!” Hayley smiled back – and they continued their stroll along the Beach.
Bernstein Estate:
Chapel of the Holy Trinity, five Minutes to Ten:
The Honourable Monsignore Don Pietro Cavalli SJ (Societas Jesu as in a Jesuit) was curious. This would be no “ordinary” or “proper” Roman Catholic Wedding – if there was any, ever. Any member of the fundamentalist Wing of the Church like the Spanish Opus Dei, would call hell and damnation upon the Brides.
He despised those bigoted self-righteous Fanatics.
He looked at his Watch:
The Musicians were supposed to arrive to rehearse a final Time shortly. A Pianist, a Violinist, and a Mezzo-Soprano.
At 1200 the Choir would arrive, to rehearse with the other Musicians. The Kingdom Choir under the Direction of Karen Gibson. The same Choir who had performed at the Wedding of the Duke and the Duchesse of Sussex in 2018.
'Stand by Me' performed by Karen Gibson and The Kingdom Choir - The Royal Wedding - BBC (youtube.com)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AyFlLjdNqk8
The Choir had delivered a stunning Performance of “Stand by Me” back then. Monsignore Cavalli had heard Rumours that TRH´s the Prince and the Princess of Wales had pulled some strings to make the Choir available for the Wedding of Kirsty Garrett and Hayley King. He had also heard a Story about a Private Concert at Buckingham Palace …. where they had met TRH …. The Brides had intimated as much.
The Hunt for the Lost Scrolls: Chapter 38 by Imhotep-Ra on DeviantArt
https://www.deviantart.com/imhotep-ra/a ... -963864454
HRH, the Princess of Wales, was currently undergoing adjuvant Chemotherapy after she had been diagnosed with Cancer after major abdominal surgery in January. A devout Monarchist Don Cavalli prayed for HRH´s full recovery.
Her courage to share her Diagnosis with the World in a very personal Message he admired. It told a lot about HRH´s Character.
The Monsignore thought about the Musicians …
As a great Connoisseur of Classical Music, the Pianist and the Violinist were not unknown to him, though he had not heard them perform live. The Mezzo-Soprano, Sophie Reichenbach, he did not know. As he had learned, a brilliant Lawyer by Profession, a highly successful District Attorney even, before she became Firm Lawyer of Art Incorporated, Sophie Reichenbach had recorded her first Solo Recital last Year – which had been praised by the Critique. She had sung Handel – and a selection of Songs of Dowland and Byrd.
(205) J. Dowland: Come Again, Sweet Love - Joyce DiDonato, Gianluca Geremia - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43sAA4Ld21I
With Detective Natalie Twain-Saltzmann with the NYPD, he had been in close Contact for a few Months. As Don Cavalli understood Natalie Twain-Saltzman and Christine von der Marwitz were the Wedding-Planers, though he had only been in direct Contact with the tough Detective.
“Why have I agreed to officiate this, Wedding?” he thought.
The Answer was simple:
Don Cavalli and Commissioner Seamus King, Hayley King´s Father, went way back. He was deep in his debt. As a young Priest, his Parish in the Bronx had been threatened by local Gangs.
Back then Detective Seamus King had taken decisive Action – without hesitation. So, it had been a Question of Honour to Him, when the latter had approached him, to officiate the Wedding of his only Daughter. He knew that the Commissioner would do anything to see his Daughter happy – especially after the Death of Hayley´s Mother:
Hayley´s Mother, Bethany, had died of Cancer at the Age of 40. Her premature death had forged a close bond between Father and Daughter, which had grown over time. Even when it seemed that Hayley had gone rogue.
Notice to the reader: Read for more AliasMrJones Nothing Personal Saga, beginning with Part 4.
What had surprised the Monsignore? The Brides got a dispensation easily.
Someone had to have pulled some strings, someone with a lot of Juice: Same-Sex-Marriages were still not official Doctrine of the Roman Catholic Church. The Monsignore had a shrewd guess who had pulled said Strings.
He smiled: Hayley King would be surprised when she would learn. The Monsignore knew a secret about the Commissioner, the latter had well-guarded ….
Cavalli did not share the Belief that same-sex Couples should not get the Blessing of the Holy Church. The current Doctrine of the Holy Mother Church felt not right to him. As a Christian and as a Priest.
As a Member of the Jesuits, he was more broadminded, possessing two Doctor Grades. One in Theology and one in Canon Law.
If two people loved each other, really loved each other? The Holy Mother should give her blessing. That was his personal Credo. He sighed. Sometimes the Church was like a Supertanker. To change its Course was like a Supertanker coming to a halt at full speed. It took Miles. Miles and Time. Much Time. But Don Cavalli sensed the Wind, the Wind of Change.
More of a soft breeze actually. He smiled dryly.
He had met the Brides three Times in New York. The Jesuit had been impressed by that unlikely Couple – very much—the Daughter of the Commissioner of New York and a Girl from rural Norfolk in Great Britain. One was born into an East Coast Patrician Family and the other Offspring of a dysfunctional Family who had trouble making a living. The Father abusive and an alcoholic.
A sharp Contrast no doubt, but Cavalli had concluded quickly that their love was as deep as it was honest as it was sincere – after he learned their Story. He had been impressed – and during his Career, he had heard many Stories.
The Couple had been quite frank about how they had met – but the Monsignore knew the World – and so he had kept a straight Face when the Brides had told him about some aspects of their relationship ... Hayley King had blushed when she explained the Concept of the Enhanced Restraining System. The Honourable Monsignore Don Pietro Cavalli had not.
The opening of the two-winged Church Door interrupted his Musings.
Five Women entered. In the lead was an imposing tall blonde who had donned an emerald, green Summerdress, which swirled wide around her tanned sculpted Calves. Christine von der Marwitz reminded him of a Greek statue from her classical features down to her purple painted Toenails. Her muscular shoulders she had covered with a matching scarf. On her feet, she wore Birkenstocks – also in tone. He noticed the piercing emerald-green eyes. He had read about them.
Even from the Distance Cavalli sensed the enormous Presence of the blonde. The Vatican had a Dossier about the Pianist – it had been an interesting read. The latest entries had been -he searched for a word – fascinating.
The Quest for a Mystical Weapon of Mass Destruction? No, Cavalli decided, disturbing was more like it. There were things he was supposed not to believe as a true Son of the Church. But the Proof was incontrovertible.
The Hunt for the Lost Scrolls: Chapter 95 by Imhotep-Ra on DeviantArt
https://www.deviantart.com/imhotep-ra/a ... 1027696962
Her dark-haired Companion was even taller. Clad similarly to the blonde, but in black. Around her Neck, the Priest recognized a strange Penchant – a Udjat-Penchant if the Reports were correct. In her right hand, she carried a Violin Case. A Stradivarius he knew. The famous Lord Dunn Raven.
“Sophia Loren in Arabesque,” Cavalli thought baffled as he looked at the third Woman. The Resemblance to the Italian Legend was striking. Even if Sophie Reichenbach was taller than Sophia Loren. Not quite as tall as her two Companions, but over average. Keen catlike green eyes fixated on him.
“That has to be the Singer,” the Monsignore thought. He had read the Biography of Sophie Reichenbach and knew about her Italian Roots.
The smiling Natalie Twain Salzman and her Wife Charlotte brought up the rear.
“Monsignore!” Natalie smiled broadly at the Priest “Nice to see you again!”
“May I introduce to you!” Beaming the brunette pointed at Chris “Chris von der Marwitz, Anna Romanova, and Sophie Reichenbach!”
“It is an honour and a pleasure” Cavalli bowed slightly and to Chris's complete surprise he executed a perfect Handkiss – his lips only barely brushing her skin.
He greeted Anna and Sophie in the same way “Your Mother is Italian” he greeted Sophie with a warm smile and switched to Italian without missing a beat “Yes, Monsignore” Sophie returned warmly in Italian. They conversed shortly in Dante´s Language.
Chris loved it when Sophie spoke Italian. That melodious Mezzo! When Sophie spoke Italian it sounded like Music, like the Song of a Siren.
The blonde did not speak Italian fluently- but her listening comprehension was good enough to catch the drift of the Conversation. Sophie smiled warmly. From what Chris understood they talked about Sophie´s Italian Background.
The Pianist gave the Monsignore a closer look. The Honourable Don Pietro Cavalli worked out regularly. Under the perfectly tailored black suit with the Roman Collar, he must have the Physique of a Greek Marble Sculpture. Over seven feet tall, with short cropped grey hair he had to be in his early fifties Chris suspected. A clear-cut face. He reminded Chris of an ancient Roman Patrician.
He had felt Chris´ scrutinizing look. To Chris's surprise, he seemed neither intimidated nor scared. People usually did when the piercing glance of those emerald, green eyes rested on them.
Instead, he smiled warmly “I never had the pleasure of hearing you in Concert Signora von der Marwitz – but your Live-Recording of the Goldberg Variations is one of my Treasures!” “He means that” Chris concluded – and had to smile. This was indeed one of her finest recordings – a Concert at the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg.
ARTE Concert | Angela Hewitt spielt die Goldberg Variationen (youtube.com)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NybmG9xtLbE
“Thank you!” the blonde returned warmly “You have good Taste Monsignore!” She turned swiftly to Anna and Sophie “Get ready! The Choir will arrive in two hours’ time.” Cavalli was impressed. Now the blonde was complete business like “Monsignore” Natalie interrupted him “There are some minor details to discuss “Of course” the Priest nodded - absentmindedly.
His eyes though never left the three Musicians: Chris von der Marwitz opened the Piano, adjusted the seat, and sat down gracefully. The Pianist took off the Scarf covering her Shoulders. The Shoulders of an Athlete. She struck C 4. The clear, brilliant yet warm Sound stood in the Chapel and seemed to resonate in the Air. Chris played a full accord. With both Hands. Precise and clear.
The German was very pleased. The Quality of the Grand Piano met her Professional Standards. Normally she insisted on adjusting the Mechanic on her own – but this had not been possible this time. Whoever had done the tuning? They had done a good job. Minor adjustments she would do later.
The Russian Violinist opened her Violin Case and took the Stradivarius- as gently as a lover would touch his Companion – out of its Case, took up the bow, and prepared to play. Sophie Reichenbach´s warm, dark Mezzo filled the Chapelle easily as she warmed up.
The Preparations of the Musicians distracted Don Cavalli somewhat …He was a Man after all: Three beautiful Women in Summer Dresses, making such beautiful Music …
“Monsignore?” Natalie interrupted “Excuse me” Cavalli smiled “I was distracted” The Detective smiled knowingly “They can have that effect can´t they”.
Chris smiled. The Piano and its Mechanics. It reacted to her slightest touch, as she preferred it – an old Steinway, from 1938 - “Let us begin with the first piece the opening March!” the blonde announced.
She looked at Anna and smiled warmly. Sophie stood at the left side of the Grand Piano, her right hand resting on the black polished wood. She wore a light Summer Dress, in Prussian Blue and Birkenstocks too.
Chris nodded imperceptibly and began to play. Anna fell in. The Russian was always fascinated by how well they were in tune with together “True” she mused “We have played so many times together and yet I feel it a wonder still!” The warm radiant tone of the Lord Dunn Raven filled the Chapel.
Chris let the Violin shine, taking herself back. Now and then Anna and Chris looked at each other. The other knew what the other would do – always. They could have played blindfolded, and nobody would have known the difference.
The Introduction finished, Chris looked at Sophie – and the dark-haired Woman with Italian Roots intoned the Verses of Richard Wagner´s Lohengrin:
Wagner - Bridal Chorus (piano) (youtube.com)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0VASxTaaNw
Treulich geführt ziehet dahin,
wo euch der Segen der Liebe bewahr’!
Siegreicher Mut, Minnegewinn
eint euch in Treue zum seligsten Paar.
Streiter der Tugend, schreite voran!
Zierde der Jugend, schreite voran!
Rauschen des Festes seid nun entronnen,
Wonne des Herzens sei euch gewonnen!
Duftender Raum, zur Liebe geschmückt,
nehm’ euch nun auf, dem Glanze entrückt.
Treulich geführt ziehet nun ein,
wo euch der Segen der Liebe bewahr’!
Siegreicher Mut, Minne so rein
eint euch in Treue zum seligsten Paar.
Treulich bewacht bleibet zurück,
wo euch der Segen der Liebe bewahr’!
Siegreicher Mut, Minne und Glück
eint euch in Treue zum seligsten Paar.
Streiter der Tugend, bleibe daheim!
Zierde der Jugend, bleibe daheim!
Rauschen des Festes seid nun entronnen,
Wonne des Herzens sei euch gewonnen!
Duftender Raum, zur Liebe geschmückt,
nahm euch nun auf, dem Glanze entrückt.
Treulich bewacht bleibet zurück,
wo euch der Segen der Liebe bewahr’!
Siegreicher Mut, Minne und Glück
eint euch in Treue zum seligsten Paar.
Sophie smiled as she sang the last notes. This had felt good.
Applause cut into the Silence as the Monsignore clapped his Hands. Anna and Sophie bowed but Chris called them to order “Ladies we have some work to do!”
“You are a hard Task Master” Anna grinned – and took up her bow – again. Not that she was angry in the slightest. The highest Standards were just good enough. What had the famous Conductor Herbert von Karajan said: “If you reach your goals, you have not set them high enough!”
It was after they finished the Rehearsal when Don Cavalli approached Chris “That was marvellous” he smiled warmly “When I hear you play I like to think Music is really a Gift of God the Almighty” Chris smiled, and her tone was even “Forgive me Don Cavalli but since the Death of my Parents in a senseless Car Crash at the Amalfi Coast I do not believe anymore – at least not in the Christian God”.
To her surprise, the Priest replied evenly “In what do you believe then?” And Chris felt no judgment in his Words, just intellectual curiosity “I am a believer of the Eastern Philosophies” she added “Zen, Bushido” Don Cavalli nodded “I am looking forward to continuing our Conversation – but the Choir has just arrived” he smiled “And I am looking to hear how you accompany a Gospel Choir
“And you shall” Chris smiled back ….
“That Priest is interesting,” she thought.
Chris had to admit she was intrigued: There had been no Judgement. Not many devout religious people could deal with the fact that she did not believe in Jesus Christ. That Moment when Mrs. Mullova, a Violin Teacher at the Vienna Conservatory informed her about her Parent's Death in a Car Crash on the Amalfi Coast – it would be always with her. It had changed her life forever.
She concentrated on the Present:
Anna and Sophie exchanged a look, they had followed the Exchange between Chris and the Monsignore.
“Now Ladies! The Gospel!” Chris ordered.
Last edited by Caesar73 2 days ago, edited 1 time in total.
Seriously my friend, have you ever considered writhing an actual novel? If it was of the same superb standard of your entries here, and i've NO doubt that it would be, i would definitely be GLAD to BUY a copy!
-
slackywacky
- Millennial Club
- Posts: 2647
- Joined: 5 years ago
- Location: Canada
I agree with @LunaDog, you are an excellent writer and could publish your books (like on Amazon).
A classical chapter (thank you for the links to Youtube and DA). Very enjoyable. In was trying to sing the words of the Wagner - Bridal Chorus, but me not singing them is probably better for the world.
A classical chapter (thank you for the links to Youtube and DA). Very enjoyable. In was trying to sing the words of the Wagner - Bridal Chorus, but me not singing them is probably better for the world.
Thanks for reading. Feel free to comment.
Slackywacky, also @DeviantArt
My active stories:
Slackywacky, also @DeviantArt
My active stories:
- All in the family - Updated 8/05
- Bondage model by choice - Updated 7/05
- Hitchhiker - Updated 11/05
Dear Friends @LunaDog and @slackywacky thank you for your most kind words. I enjoy it very much to develop the Characters of my Cast further and this Tale is a fine opportunity to do so. And we should not forget, that @mrjones2009 created some wonderful Characters with Hayley and Kirsty. Those two deserve a Wedding full of Joy and Splendour - and they will get it
Well my esteemed fellow contributors and commentators have said it all. You could truly write a novel with such a high standard. Though I’d be devastated should you fail to keep up with you contribution’s here my dear friend. This is without doubt the best wedding ever. Well save for maybe my own of course