South Of Bikini 2- Mission To Infamy free porn video

With Sand Dollar assigned to escort duty, Captain Steinert and her sisters take on their most demanding mission to date. Can Alexandra successfully complete a mission seemingly doomed from the onset? Copyright 2008- 2010 R.G. Beyer South of Bikini: Onward Episode 3 "Mission to Infamy" 2300 hours, 200 Nautical Miles North-northeast of Tarawa Island, May 18th, 1944 "Ensign Masterson, report to the Wardroom on the double!" I said into the squawk as Emily entered and sat down. Mina arrived next, but remained standing. "Please have a seat, highness," I motioned to her. She had been extremely quiet since leaving Atlantis-Minor three days ago- something entirely out of character for her. "I'm still working the problem, Mina," I casually informed her. "What problem, Alexandra? Is there something still unknown about our latest journey?" "You know there is, Highness! I refuse to give up on a solution, though," I said just a little perturbed. "Some things cannot be easily changed, Empress. I have come to terms with my future, however it may turn out. It would be wise of you to do the same." "Unfortunately, your daughters have yet to 'come to terms' with that, Mina- nor have Emily or I for the record." "Having met Mr. Lincoln, Alexandra, would you consider him accepting of our help or will he require...convincing?" "All right, Mina, I get the point. Changing the subject, Abraham Lincoln is a fair man for his time. He is, unfortunately, unwilling to accept our presence at first and I must demonstrate the Empress' abilities." "Really, Alexandra, you should not be surprised that mortals question your very existence!" "Stop it! Stop it right now, Mina! I am still mortal- as is everyone here! What is wrong with you?" I asked in anger as I glared at her. My inner friend informed me of the answer to my question. I was shocked! "Alex?" Emily asked, concerned by my expression. "Her Royal Highness is planning on sabotaging her own future, sis," I announced. "That is none of your business, Alexandra!" Mina quickly protested. "Bull!" "Excuse me?" "Bullshit, Mina! Your future IS my business! I will not allow you to change anyone's future out of personal pity! You taught me that- you preached it until I took it to heart! I'll be damned if I'm gonna allow y'all to ignore yer own lessons!" My voice raised an octave, I was so adamant! The lights blinked almost imperceptibly. "Ya know what, Highness? You just try an off yerself this trip! Go 'head, try it! Ah'll have y'all back in the past faster'n y'all can say 'balderdash'! Ah refuse ta let one'a mah bess friends do herself harm while ah'm still breathin'! Y'all are messin' with the wrong gal, Phil'mina Smith!" I pounded the table once before I broke down in tears. Out of frustration, I looked to the ceiling. "What do ah have ta do ta keep y'all alive, Mina?" I exclaimed. I stopped crying and smiled so suddenly that Emily jumped! It's amazing how asking the right question at the right time can simplify things! "Did I come at the wrong time, Skipper?" Corrine Masterson asked as she appeared in the doorway. "Right on time, Corrine." I smiled brightly. Emily just stared at me quizzically and remained silent. She knew from my expression- just like two close sisters would- that things had taken a positive turn. "Emily and I need our hair color changed, hun. One or two shades darker should do. Oh, and we need it a little longer too- maybe six, seven inches more? Curls require more hair after all," I looked to Mina adding a little more mischief to my smile. "Mina needs hair down past her ass, Corrine," I cut her off before she started to protest. "You can start on Emily, Mina, and I while we wait for Jamie to finish her watch. Mina..." I glared at her, "Pray I don't order her to make you a true blonde!" "Skipper?" "Miss Masterson?" "Skip...how do I do this?" "How did you make your own hair longer, Corrine?" "I...I just thought about it." "Just gather our hair up in your hands and think a few shades darker, Corrine! I thought you said you talked to your future self?" "I did, I just didn't think to really listen to her, ma'am." "Just do what I said, Corrine." "How should I style it then?" "Wait," I stood and motioned for her to take my hand. "We'll be right back, ladies." Corrine and I were suddenly in the open air standing on what appeared to be a cobblestone sidewalk. Men and women of the era walked straight through us, oblivious to our existence. "Corrine, these are the hairstyles and fashions of the day. We'll watch for a few minutes then I'd like you to match us each up with the appropriate style for our clothing and color, got it?" "Aye, Skip. Are we really here- in 1865?" "1864, actually. I thought the latest fashion would bring too much attention to us when we arrive here next January." "Skipper?" "Just mind the women, Ensign." "Aye, Skip, but could we move to the side? I'm getting a little nauseous with all these people walking through me!" I pulled her back so that we were standing on the lawn. Ten minutes later Corrine said she was ready and the cramped Wardroom of Sand Dollar reappeared. "Did you just do what I think you did, Alex?" Emily asked as we rephased. "Maybe?" "Alex, it looked like you just blinked! Where did you two go?" "Corrine went shopping for our hairstyles, sis. She needed some examples," I just smiled. "Miss Masterson, you can commence when ready," I motioned to my scalp. "Aye, Skipper. Here goes nothin'!" 2315 hours, 200 Nautical Miles North-northeast of Tarawa Island, May 18th, 1944 Our travel party left the cramped Wardroom and headed aft to the Con. I dared not have us engage our Reilly Uniform's changing abilities in such close quarters as our period dresses took up way too much real estate. "What's the weather topside, Jack?" "Slightly overcast, three to four foot swells, Ale...wow! Where did you get all that hair, Cap?" "Don't you like, Jack?" I asked, batting my eyelashes several times. Emily, Mina, Corrine, and Jamie joined me in the compartment. "Holllly..." Carroll exclaimed from back by the galley. "Is that how they actually wore their hair back then, Alex?" "As near as we saw when we went back on recon, Carroll." It's massive! That has to be heavy, Skip." "Just wait 'til you see what we have to wear," I rolled my eyes. "We'll be departing from the foredeck, Commander," I informed Jack. "Can't we have a peek here, Alex? I'm just dying to see how you look." "Very well, Commander." I pointed to Mina, Jamie, Corrine, and Emily to move forward against the bulkhead. When I was sure I had enough room, I took several large breaths of air then exhaled heavily as per Emily's instructions. Focusing on the virtual switch on my uniform's HUD, I triggered the change. A series of disgusting 'cracks' signaled that I had not made myself small enough before the dread torture device known as a corset assembled itself and tightened around my midsection. If I'd had any breath left in my body, I would have screamed! Instead, I merely saw more than my share of stars, my field of vision narrowed significantly, and I cried silently in pain! Immediately I reached for anything that could support me- a pipe, a valve, some gauges, or a conduit leading to the diving alarm switch. "Alex!" Jack shouted, and was immediately at my side. While I tried to regain my breath, I heard Emily scolding Mina. "What possessed you to bring up the corset in full closure, Mina? You just gave Alex four cracked ribs! Are you trying to kill us as well as yourself?" "Doctor, I assure you that was not my intent! For your information, I only had catalog drawings and first hand observations of the bloody things in use! I have no present or previous knowledge of their installation! It was simply a slight miscalculation on my part. Alexandra, can you forgive me, love?" Mina started over to me, but I waved her back. Jack was holding me up- physically for a change- just above my waist. I didn't have the heart or breathe to tell her that's where my ribs were. "Alex, I didn't know somebody's waist could get so small!" She looked to where I was cut in two, turned bright red, and removed some pressure from my damaged ribs. "Neither..." I gasped. "Did I...Jack!" I gasped again as I labored to finish my sentence. "Randi Van Pelt to the Con!" Jack's voice echoed over the pressure hull. She never even reached for the mic- nor moved her mouth! "Ya, Commander?" Randi replied as she stuck her head out of our Radio Shack. "Randi, the captain seems to be having a problem with her uniform. Could you maybe take a look?" Jack asked officially as she momentarily glanced back in her direction. "Sure, what seems to be the pro...blem...Skip? Oh, that isn't good, is it? I'll find the problem in a minute, Skipper!" Randi stumbled as she got a better look at my situation. "Thanks," I gasped with what little air I could draw in. Immediately, a small, blue window appeared in my HUD. Print of some kind quickly filled it and kept right on scrolling up from the bottom. The words stopped after a few seconds and an entire block of print became highlighted, flashing between red and white. "There's the problem!" Randi remarked with her eyes closed. "I'll have the problem fixed in a sec, Skip." A larger block of print replaced the previously highlighted print. I immediately felt the constriction at my waist ease. "There, Skip, I rewrote the subroutine containing your corset's initialization values and incorporated a longer delay loop to gradually decrease circumference. I also adjusted the program to determine the smallest possible diameter acceptable, yet promote healthy lung function. Who wrote this program anyhow?" She tilted her head slightly. "I'm afraid I gave Random the measurements, Miss Van Pelt. I may have misjudged the Captain's size slightly." "Ya think?" Jack glared back at Mina. She looked back at me. "You look very pretty, Alex. I guess no matter what age we visit, we'll always be breathtaking." "You would choose other words had this happened to you, Miss Cummins!" "Sorry, Alex," Jack winced. "You've had your fashion show, Commander, but I have to change out of this Iron Maiden in order to scale the bridge ladder so, if you don't mind..." "Wait, Skip! I'd like to make a few more modifications to the program before you do that!" Randi insisted. Again, a window of type print scrolled before my eyes and after another minute, Randi declared me done. I triggered the change back to my modern uniform and noticed I fell a few inches. I hadn't noticed I'd been wearing three-inch heels. I didn't even know they wore high heels back then! "I'll make the necessary changes to everyone's uniform program, Skipper. It'll only take about four minutes." "Can I come over and check Capt. Steinert's ribcage while you're reprogramming our clothes, Randi?" "Go ahead, ma'am, that shouldn't affect what I'm doing." I sucked in a huge amount of air and immediately expelled every cubic inch of it. This time I did moan- loudly- as I heard further cracking from my chest. "Alex, are you okay?" Emily asked as she gently touched my unseen wounds. "I'll be alright, sis. It only hurts when I take a big breath...or smile," I winced. "Good thing they're only cracked, huh?" "Good thing we heal fast, too," Emily added as she looked back at Mina. "All ready, ladies. That shouldn't happen anymore," Randi gave us a thumbs-up. "Jack, you have the Con. We should be back in five minutes- barring any unforeseen difficulties," I glared at Mina again! That was my final warning for her to behave and not jeopardize the mission. "Alex, are you sure you can climb the ladder?" Emily asked with concern. I'll be fine. Let's get this mission started. Let's go topside everyone!" I said through tightly clenched teeth. 2330 hours, 200 Nautical Miles North-northeast of Tarawa Island, May 18th, 1944 "Hey, Salenzsky, look over at the Sand Dollar!" "What's wrong, she got company?" "No, just look on her foredeck. Tell me what ya see." "Looks like some kind of initiation to me. How'd they get them wigs past the brass?" "You know them sub mariners. They get all the breaks." "Ya...WOOW! Did you just see that? How'd they change into them old fashioned dresses so fast?" "Not a clue, Salenzsky. Maybe they hid 'em under their work clothes. HOLY SHIT! They just disappeared! We need to report this to the OD!" "And what do we tell him? We seen five men with long-haired, girly-wigs come onto the deck then we seen their regulation clothes change to somethin' from 'Gone with the Wind' an then we seen 'em disappear completely?" "Ya!" "Don't be an idiot! We'd spend the rest of the mission in the brig!" "They looked good in them dresses though didn't they?" "Shuddup!" Washington DC, January 10th, 1865 "No one let go yet! I want to make sure we're really alone here!" I cautioned my companions. I had read somewhere that Confederate Marksmen had been reported fairly close to the White House at this time. Also, assassination plots against President Lincoln were fairly common these days. "There's snow on the ground!" "Good observation, Jamie! It IS the middle of January, and this IS Washington DC after all!" "And it's dark out!" "Ya?" "Why doesn't it feel cold though, Skipper?" "Because I haven't rephased us yet, Ms. Hilf. While we're out of phase, our previous environment stays with us." "Oh." "Alex, shouldn't we be inside the White House instead of outside it?" Emily asked. It was a good point- one that required our secondary mission to be revealed as an answer. "According to my information, the Lincoln's are having a little get together tonight. Unfortunately there is also an assassination attempt we must foil before our official arrival. Let's all walk over to the side Portico, shall we?" I informed everyone. "I still don't see why I'm here, Skipper. I really can't do anything, and I don't see how my hearing can help stop an assassination." We were halfway across the snow-covered lawn by now, yet we left no tracks. Mina took notice. "My word, Alexandra, just like walking across water!" "That would be the three-inch heeled boots you put us in, highness! Did they even wear such things in this day and age?" "I've seen old photographs of women wearing heeled boots, Alex, but I don't think they ever went over two inches!" Emily answered candidly. "Great! Just great! We come to Washington to help the president looking like high-priced prostitutes of the time! So much for not being noticed," I cried, rolling my eyes as the sheer volume of our skirts caused them to bounce wildly and us to walk like drunken sailors while holding hands. "Skipper, you haven't answered my question yet," Jamie nagged. "And look, there they are," She pointed to the basement service entrance where two shadowy figures struggled with a moderate sized box. "Miss Hilf, I want you to talk them out of it- simple as that! Just suggest they shouldn't do it- that they will never succeed and concentrate on that. That should do it," I smiled at her. We had almost reached our destination. "Say again, Skip?" "Walk on over and suggest they stop what they're doing- maybe suggest they go to a saloon. Mind the dizziness as you let go of Corrine's hand, though." I nodded and Corrine released her crewmate's hand. "Aw, for cryin' out loud!" Jamie cried as she stumbled a few steps, almost falling face first in the inch deep snow. Her sudden appearance got quick attention. "Hey! Whatcha' doin' here, girly?" A man's voice asked in a quiet, angry growl. "Um...trying to stop you from...um...making a big mistake," Jamie replied in a frightened tone. "Mistake? Hell, we're meanin' ta remedy one, Missy!" "I...I really think you should find something else to occupy your time, gentlemen," She suggested cautiously as one of the men began to move closer. "I could think ah somethin' right here to occupy our time, ain't that right, Tom?" "Yep, I could do a whole lotta occupyin', cousin- yes siree!" "No...no, I was thinking more of going to a saloon for a drink, gentlemen! Leave this ill-fated plan and go have a drink. Yes, I think that is what you should do," Jamie firmly insisted, just a little flustered. "Ya hear that Tom, she wants us to go get drunk 'stead'a puttin' this here bomb in the cellar!" "Sounds like a good i'dear ta me cuz. What'er we wastin' our time here fer anyway?" "Wastin' our time? This was your plan, Tom! You says all we had ta do was put the box in the cellar; set it behind a few barrels and things ta hide it and skeedaddle! Nothin' to it ya says! Now this ere fancy whore tells us we shouldn't do it an ya takes her at er word!" "I really think you need to discuss this further over a few well- deserved drinks, gentlemen!" Jamie insisted again, her voice even and maybe a little seductive. "Ya knows what Tom? Maybe the pretty lady's right! Let's go down ta Randall's an ferget 'bout this all together!" "You buy the first round, Cuz!" "Why me? It were your plan!" "Why don't you two buy each other drinks?" Jamie suggested in an annoyed tone. "Good i'dear, ma'am! Let's go, Cuz!" The two men gently placed the box on the ground and tipped their hats to Jamie. "Have a nice night now, ma'am," One of them said. The genuine courtesy shown toward Jamie just now by the two seemed surreal- totally out of character for either one. The two walked away, oblivious of the mysterious box they left behind. I immediately rephased the four of us. "That was very well done, Miss Hilf," I said as I walked over to the wooden crate. Jamie looked thoroughly confused by what had just transpired. Placing my hand on the large wooden box, I transported it somewhere it wouldn't hurt anyone- after all what's another explosion on Ford Island in December of 1941?" "Where did you take it, Alex?" Emily asked. "Where it shouldn't harm a soul, sis!" I said as I looked at Mina calmly, but punctuated my hint to her with a slight nod. "I understand, Alexandra! I'm not the thickheaded man I once was, you know!" "No, but you're still thickheaded just the same, Highness," I giggled. "Skipper?" Jamie asked quietly. "Skipper, how did I just do that? Talking two bad guys into quitting, that is?" "The same way you got Commander Cummins to show leniency during your first monthly, Miss Hilf!" I couldn't help but smile at her confused expression. "But I haven't received my gift yet." "Ah, but you were the first to receive it, Jamie." "You mean I can talk people into doing stuff?" Jamie asked as her eyes went wide. I laughed. "It's a little bit more involved than that, Miss Hilf. We will require your gift several more times on this mission, so remember how you did it." "What, I just talked to them and suggested they..." "Yes," I laughed as I gently laid my hand on her shoulder, "Remember that." "Alexandra, if we stay out here any longer, we'll catch our death of cold, possibly even pneumonia." "Quite right, your highness, we should be moving on now. Everyone please join hands." A warm, inviting, warmly lit hallway in the White House replaced the harsh, cold night. "As before, remain holding hands until I find us a private location to rephase, ladies." "Jamie, I have to touch up your hair once the Empress finds us some privacy," Corrine told our crewmate. Her hair had become windblown, some of it escaping her delicate hairnet and she looked a little disheveled at the moment. If we were to meet the President, we'd have to look our best! A furnished, unoccupied room halfway down the hall proved the perfect place to phase in. As Corrine attended to Jamie's hair, I explained our entrance into the gala. "Okay, for tonight we are all cousins. Emily and I are sisters and..." "No real surprise there," Jamie interrupted sounding a bit catty. I stopped and glared at her before continuing. "Mina...Mina is our cousin from England, who has been stranded in the colonies because of the naval blockade. To say that she is not happy about being here, so close to the fighting is an understatement!" It was Mina's turn to roll her eyes in annoyance. The four of us are originally from Hartford, Connecticut, while Mina still hails from her birthplace. We are in town at the request of Senator Abernathy, also from Connecticut and a friend of the family, so we can meet influential beaus as requested by our respective fathers." I noticed everyone cringe, except Mina. "If asked, Alex, what do our fathers do?" Emily inquired. "This is the Civil War, sis, munitions...of course. We all should be able to talk at length about old powder rifles. Be careful of our role in this society though. Women are not expected to carry on highly intellectual conversations. Y'all must ensure the man leaves the conversation feeling superior...which is unfortunate." Corrine was just finishing up Jamie's touch up. "Jamie, when we reach the entrance to the ballroom I'd like you to suggest that we've been invited, but only after Emily and I introduce us. Once inside, we have to find Sen. Abernathy and you need to suggest that we're family friends and he's known us all our lives. Got it?" "Aye, Skipper." "One more thing..." I glared at Jamie Hilf. "We are cousins. Cousins call each other by their given or pet names. Understand, Jamie, Corrine, Emily, and Mina?" "Yes, Alexandra, I think we can handle that small detail!" Mina replied smugly. "Alex...hmmm, that's going to take some time to get used to, Skipper." "Jamie!" "I mean that's going to take some time to get used to, Alex, ma'am." I rolled my eyes as I went to slowly open the door into the hallway. Once clear I ushered my cousins and sister out. We were about midway between our original hiding place and the reception area adjacent to the ballroom when a man's voice rang out behind us. "Alexandra? You really should wait for your escort. It would not be proper to allow such beauty to go unattended in this day and age." I knew that voice! Stopping, I turned around to see who knew me in this time period. "Sanford Fleming, what are doing here?" I quietly asked in amazement. "Father advised me that eligible young women should not go out after dark by themselves. He insisted I attend you and your cousins to this ball or suffer certain embarrassment." Sandy caught up to us and took me in his arms. "Please my love, I would be tortured more from your absence than my father's disinheritance!" Immediately my stomach felt like a thousand butterflies took flight! "Why are you here?" I whispered into his ear as he held me tight. "The Empress remembered she forgot something when she was here, Captain Steinert." "And what, pray tell, did I forget, Mr. Fleming?" "Women of the time were always escorted by their men, Alex. You forget that women's suffrage was in its infancy during the Civil War and that it was not accepted for women to attend gatherings of state stag." Raising my head from his shoulder, I noticed my face peeking from the room we had just left- her visible hand giving me an enthusiastic thumbs up. I winked my thanks to her and tried to put some distance between my...our escort. Sandy looked very suave in his black suit with matching dark gray vest and pocket watch, the thick, black, silk ascot tied around his neck and collar, and black leather shoes. He sported a finely groomed mustache as appropriate for his bachelor status in this society. In all, he looked very handsome! Sandy and I shared a long glance before he looked to the others. "Ladies, I believe we are expected?" He motioned down the hallway. Sandy took my arm and offered Emily his other as we approached the heavily bearded man standing watch at the ballroom's door. "Good evening, sir. I believe we are expected? Sanford Fleming escorting Alexandra, and Emily Scott of Hartford, their cousins, Corrine Masterson, Jamella Hilf of Albany, and cousin Philamina Smith of Manchester, England." "We are invited to this occasion, are we not, handsome sir?" Jamie smiled and blinked her eyes a few times. What a flirt! "Ah yes, Mr. Fleming, I was informed by your father of your arrival here and escort of these beautiful flowers! Go right in sir!" The receptionist replied happily as he stepped aside. We entered a beautifully decorated, ornate ballroom wondering how Sandy's 'father' had passed on any message at all. Calming Chamber music filled the room as a large number of men and women socialized. Mr. Lincoln stood just off center of the room talking to- and towering over- four union officers in full dress uniform. Sandy guided us closer. "Excuse me, Mr. President?" He politely interrupted the conversation. All five men stopped talking and just stared at us like four hungry wolves' would a flock of unattended sheep! Only the President seemed to regard us as human. "Excuse me, gentlemen, I must continue my duties as tonight's host," Lincoln said to his officers. "We'll continue this discussion after dinner, thank you, gentlemen." Abraham Lincoln towered over my Sandy by about four inches. The president took a minute to apprise each of us before he said anything else. "I'm sorry, sir, I would remember such vast beauty had I made acquaintance before." "Allow me, Mr. President," Sandy offered. "I am Sanford Fleming Step-son of Col. Richard Demmit- now retired and these are my lovely charges for this evening: Alexandra and Emily Scott of Hartford, Connecticut; Corrine Masterson and Jamella Hilf of Albany, New York, and Philamina Smith of Manchester, England. Unfortunately, Miss Smith is not here quite by choice, sir." "It is regretful to have inconvenienced your return to England, Miss Smith. Unfortunately, we must sometimes make sacrifices in wartime. Seldom do such things affect the right parties, though, I'm afraid." "I'm sure her majesty, Victoria, is most displeased with the behavior of her colonies, Mr. Lincoln, but her highness has wisdom beyond her years and so chooses to refrain from taking sides. I had not expected to extend my visit with my cousins quite so long, but I understand the reluctance of the British Empire to go to war for just a single one of its subjects," Mina said with her usual royalty. Lincoln seemed unaffected by Mina's courtly scolding; instead, he motioned us to one side of the room. "Ladies, I'm afraid I must attend to my other arriving guests. I therefore leave you in the most able presence of my wife, Mary." Lincoln gently rested his large hand on his wife's small shoulder. "Mary, my love, I wish to introduce some lovely young women. Philamina Smith from England, Corrine Masterson, Jamella Hilf..." "Jamie, sir. Just Jamie," She protested. "My apologies, Miss Hilf. Misses Masterson and Hilf are from Albany. Emily and Alexandra Scott here are from Hartford, Connecticut. All five young ladies are cousins. "And who is this handsome young man, Abraham?" "Again I am sorry, dear; this is Sanford Fleming, step-son of Colonel Richard Demmit. He has the pleasure of escorting these lovely ladies around Washington." Mrs. Lincoln stared at me curiously, which made me feel very uncomfortable! Had she met me already...in my future? Given her reputation, I was sure I'd find out soon enough. "Thank you, Abraham, you and young Sanford should return to your complicated, compelling men discussions and allow us women to socialize." Mr. Lincoln took his wife's hand and kissed the top of it. "I thank you, Mrs. Lincoln," He said gently, excused himself then he and Sandy walked away. Mrs. Lincoln motioned the five of us closer to the ballroom's wall. We stood there awkwardly quiet for some time. "So, Alexandra, you and your sister are from Hartford?" "That's right, Ma'am, have you ever been there?" I answered her politely, still not sure if I'd met her on any future missions. "Though I suspect not originally?" She glared at me. This wasn't good! "I'm sorry, ma'am?" I said in surprise. "I can always spot a fellow frontiersman, Miss Scott." "My sister and I grew up in Hartford, ma'am," Emily insisted. "Miss Scott," Mrs. Lincoln looked to Emily, "You may have spent your childhood in Connecticut, but your sister's accent tells me she grew up farther west- well west of the Ohio's forks? Isn't that right Miss Alexandra...Steinert, isn't it?" Whether it was the sudden shock of my real name being spoken or simply the severe compression of my corset, I began to see stars in my vision for a second time tonight. I vaguely heard Emily and Mina gasp. Mrs. Lincoln then guided me to a nearby open window. "Empress, it was not my desire to drain the life from those pretty cheeks. Here, sit down and catch your breath," She whispered quietly. "You know? How?" I looked up into her eyes searching for any hints. "Don't you remember? You came to my aid three years past- right after...my son...left us," Her voice turned angry as tears appeared in the corners of her eyes. "I'm sorry, ma'am, but if we've met already, you must know that time flows differently for me," I tried to remind her without adding to her anger. "So you claim, Empress! So you claimed!" Her angry tone continued. Ma'am, if I have angered you in any way, I would be happy to leave the premises and not return, but I do have a mission to complete in order for the future of this country- the future of this world to remain on track." "Alexandra, you should know that I personally consider the 'Empress' the harbinger of death for my family! I assume your attendance here heralds the loss of another of my loved ones?" She asked candidly, remaining all too calm. This woman was indeed perceptive! "I gather from your silence that is the case. Who is it to be then, Empress? Will it be Robert or Tad this time?" The deep, dark scowl on her face dared me to tell her otherwise! I had no choice but to start crying! How could I deprive this woman of another loved one...of her husband? She had already buried a son, Edward, fifteen years ago and another son, William, not quite three ago. How could I possibly ask this woman to bear any more pain? "Mrs. Lincoln, please don't blame Alexandra for what she has to do. Coming here was not her wish- more an unpopular, unpleasant task this world demands be done to satisfy its undying hunger for balance. Dear lady, she is no more the grim reaper than I am really a subject of Victoria!" "You sound English to me, Ms. Smith!" "I am a reigning monarch in my own right I'll have you know, Mrs. Lincoln!" "Excuse me, Mrs. Lincoln; I really don't think you should be speaking so loudly! People in the room are already looking this way, ma'am," Jamie suggested as she interrupted. "So what is your specific power, Ms. Jamella Hilf? You arrived with the Empress, so you must be an auxiliary to her in some capacity." Jamie jerked back sharply at the question and her hand quickly covered her forehead. She quickly recovered and glared at the First Lady. "First off, ma'am, my name is Jamie and apparently my gift entails empathy to those around me, and yes this is my first time assisting the Empress! I wish you to stay calm, ma'am!" She told Mary Lincoln as she verbally strengthened her suggestion. Mrs. Lincoln's demeanor lightened. "It seems your 'gift' is nothing short of magic, Miss Hilf. A talent someone would pay dearly for just two centuries ago!" She looked intently at Jamie for a minute or so. She seemed dead set on fighting her sudden, unexpected calm. "Mrs. Lincoln, I'm sorry about our first meeting, but for me, it hasn't happened yet. I have vague memories shared from my future self, but nothing specific from her visit with you. It happens that way sometimes, ma'am," I calmly explained, hoping she would understand somewhat. "Alexandra, you tried to explain your method of travel to me three years ago. I understand it no better this time- nor do I want the malady that accompanies it! Tell me who it is to be, Empress." "We really should be going, ma'am," I looked up at Emily, Mina, Corrine, and Jamie through gathering tears. Facing this woman was tearing me apart! "I can't do this- not to you, Mary Lincoln!" I stood quickly to grasp Emily and Jamie's hands- to phase us out- to go anywhere but here! My private domain appeared in my head. The gas lit ballroom suddenly became the dark emptiness of my private domain. All five of us continued to hold hands, unsure of our location. A single gasp from behind Emily told me that we had brought along an unexpected guest. "Is this heaven or hell? Surely heaven would not be so desolate, Empress!" "You haven't been here before, ma'am?" "I would surely remember such a forbidding place, Alexandra! Is this what you call home?" "No ma'am, this is a place to which I sometimes retire when I wish to think and entertain conversation." Entertain conversation, Empress?" "It's a long story, ma'am, one which would severely bore you! We had best get you home now, so take a hand, ma'am." "I wish to see your home, Alexandra! If you truly are a traveler from the future, show it to me now! Prove to me this is no mere dream!" "So, y'all been readin' Dickens, hmmm?" I took a minute to see how bad I had fractured history this time. Surprisingly there wasn't the slightest change. Why? "All right, ma'am, I'll take you on a quick tour of our home..." I thought twice about that. "No, on second thought I'll take you to our time, ma'am. What city would you like to visit in 1944, Mrs. Lincoln?" I raised an eyebrow as I glared at her. "Washington, if it still stands after this hideous war! Show me Washington City in this 1944 of yours, Alexandra!" "Oh it still stands, ma'am, in fact, it has more than tripled in size since we left your gathering. Please take a hand, ma'am." My dark, lonely domain became a lawn sided by a wide street with cars traveling in both directions. The sky was somewhat overcast and gray and the people walking its sidewalks wore summery clothes and formal hats- late spring I'd guess. "Continue to hold hands, ladies, we are not dressed appropriately for this time period and Mary does not possess a Reilly suit," I reminded everyone. "What is a...a Reilly suit, Alexandra? What are these strange noisy carriages on the street?" Lincoln looked about in childlike wonder. "A Reilly suit is what we wear to blend into the various time periods, ma'am, and these horseless carriages are called automobiles. They were invented in the late nineteenth century and helped to mobilize this country more than ever before." "And this is Washington?" "Let's all turn around while still holding hands, ma'am," I suggested. Again the shear acreage of our period dresses made my simple suggestion into a circus clown routine! "Its still here!" Lincoln exclaimed as she beheld the President's Mansion. "And it will stand for several more centuries if I ever carry out this damnable mission!" "What is that over there, Alexandra?" She pointed past her former home to the Mall. "Is that Washington's monument? It still stands also?" "Yes, ma'am," I answered as she awkwardly pulled us across the lawn. Once we cleared the trees and buildings making up the White House gardens, she glanced farther down the mall. "And what is that being constructed at the end?" "A monument to your husband, ma'am. It will be called the Lincoln Memorial." A squadron of fighters, P51's, flew over us on patrol. Of course our guest jumped several inches and almost released her handhold. I quickly explained them. "Ma'am, what you have just seen is the limit to which technology has evolved in 1944. Early this century, 1903 I believe, we perfected manned flight. The five contrivances that have just over flown us are called airplanes- fighters to be specific. They patrol Washington for enemy aircraft intent on bombing the city. "Are we at war still?" "Unfortunately, Earth's history is fraught with wars and skirmishes, ma'am. This is but the latest of several since the end of your Civil War, as we call it here." This country is still fighting itself?" "No ma'am, England, France, the United States, and several other countries have joined forces to fight Germany, Italy, and Japan, whose leaders wish to enslave the Earth under they're rule. It will be referred to as the Second World War, Mrs. Lincoln." Nearby, a marine and a young woman sat at a bench along the sidewalk. Mrs. Lincoln raised a hand signaling her intent to listen in. "Charlene, I know you said you wanted me not to enlist, but I feel I need to do this! I need to make sure we still live free of Hitler and his Nazi plague! I have to do my part for this country and the world, Charlene, can't you understand?" "Oh Michael, I do understand! I should have realized you were the kind to try and protect this country as well as me! How long do we have together, my love?" "I ship out early next week, but I'm to report to Camp LaJune tomorrow, Charlene honey, I'm sorry!" The young woman began crying into her beau's shoulder as we continued to watch. "I don't want you to go, Michael! Stay here...with me...please?" "I have to go, honey! I gave my word! I'll be back, I promise!" "Where should I write you?" "I'm being sent to the Mediterranean, I'll write you first with the address as soon as I find out. I have to get back to base now, Charlene. I love you!" The marine was now in tears as he kissed her for several minutes. They parted in tears with him going northeast across the Mall and her just standing there dazed, silently crying until he was several hundred feet away. "Michael Ferranti, you better come back to me alive, you hear! I love you!" She shouted and waved. "Such outward display of love!" Mary Lincoln looked at me. "Empress, you say you are a seer. What future does this couple face?" I concentrated on the man's name and the girl's face. A few tears ran down my face as their tragic future played out in my mind. "Can you not stop events from happening to this poor couple, Alexandra?" Lincoln's voice grew angry again as she stared at me. "He makes it back alive, Ma'am! Charlene and Michael marry and parent four children to adulthood!" "Then why do you cry, Empress?" "They are both killed by their second son when they deny him financing to buy into a foolhardy business venture thirty-five years from now. It rips the family apart and puts the children at odds with each other. Eventually, the Grandchildren suffer and become criminals. The family so beloved at first, falls, then disappears from history." "You can stop it though! Is not that your mission?" "If I meddle in that which should not be tampered with, I chance drastically changing the future, Mary. The result of such tampering can sometimes cause unintended shifts in our timeline. It deviates from its original track to become an alternate dimension with an alternate future. In short, I must reference my gift carefully and change only those events that stand to derail this timeline. The Empress can only smooth the bumps in this road we call time. I must carefully fix the glitches that would sidetrack our future- even if it goes against my firm belief of saving as many lives as possible," I sniffed. "Mrs. Lincoln, I too am a seer," Mina informed Mary Lincoln. "I was the one who carefully guided Alex Steinert's future along with her entire crew. Had I not planned out every detail of the mission that brought them to my Island, none of us would be here with you now and the Empress would not exist. The timeline Alexandra speaks so fondly of would be on the verge of fracturing into infinite pieces and there would be absolutely no one available to offer assistance. The Earth...the Universe itself might just blink out of existence." "Skipper, is what Mina just said possible?" Jamie asked in horror. "If we had failed to rescue Mina and not undergone the Mahanilui, Janelle Hathor would have succeeded in becoming Director of Reilly Station, Jamie. There would have been no one there with reason to rescue the station or its inhabitants from their fiery demise. The Protoverse chamber at the station would have ultimately failed and the universe contained therein- our universe- would have collapsed and ceased," I responded. "You talk as if our very existence- this creation that God has graciously provided is but a small thing contained within a pail!" Mrs. Lincoln accused. "Mary, I claim nothing of the sort! I submit that God's realm is significantly larger and more complex than we humans can possibly imagine- than anyone can imagine! Think of this universe, as vast as it seems, as just big enough to be held in the water pail of a larger universe; think then of how many pails could fit in that universe; that one universe in turn, can be contained in one of how many other buckets of a larger universe and so on into infinity! To make it easier to understand, there may be an infinite multitude of universes that God oversees, ma'am. This universe is but one, yet no less important than any other!" "You've been to another of these universes, Empress?" She asked, already knowing the answer. I nodded. "Then should I not refer to you as one of the Archangels or Seraphim instead of Empress?" "To do that would only anger them that are, Mary! I am no more an Angel than a Demon from hell! I am human like you or anyone on Earth. I am no more privileged than you or any other! Like you, we are all just servants! Now shouldn't we be getting back to your fundraiser for the homeless, destitute, and orphaned, Mrs. Lincoln?" "You know about the nature of my social events?" "It is a well documented fact that the first lady of the United States of America, Mary Todd Lincoln, was a well renown sponsor of the numerous soup kitchens, relief stations, and hospitals- both military and civilian, in and around Washington during the 'War between the States'. Your generosity and selflessness during those dire times is your legacy, ma'am. As is the rumors that you are also a Confederate sympathizer just because you were born in Kentucky. A state, I might add, that didn't join the rebels until well after you and Abraham were married and living in Illinois." A gasp escaped her mouth as I revealed the last few facts. The White House Ballroom reappeared and I immediately rephased us. Hopefully, our disappearance and subsequent re-appearance- just a flicker if I had timed it right, would not be noticed. "We're back!" Mrs. Lincoln started to exclaim, but quickly lowered her volume to a whisper. "I've returned us to almost the exact time that we left, ma'am. If anything we would only look to flicker as a disturbed candlewick would. "How did you know about those awful lies? I'll have you know that I personally suggested Mr. Lincoln propose his Emancipation!" "I know that also, ma'am," I admitted as I pointed to my head. "What is your future was our history Mary; that is one of the tragic constants of time travel." "But you have shown me what will come. Am I not now destined to change it with what I have learned?" "That would be why I am here, Mrs. Lincoln." "Jack?" I asked as I carefully turned around in the voluminous dress. "Um, Allie sent me," She mumbled quietly as she dropped her head. I was so glad to see her; I let a childish squeal escape my lips as I wrapped my arms around her as best as I could, given our clothing. "I'm so glad you decided to come!" I covered for my emotional outburst. I again turned carefully and introduced Jack to Mrs. Lincoln. "Ma'am, this is my first officer, Jacquelyn Cummins. Jack, Mrs. Lincoln." "We've already met, Alex. Ma'am, nice to see you again...I hope," Jack replied shyly. "Oh, I remember you, Miss Cummins!" "Ma'am, you should calm that temper," Jamie warned. "Don't make me squelch you again." The threat worked and Mary Lincoln mentally dampened her anger. "Alex, Allie brought me back here to complete what I failed to do on our last visit," Jack whispered into my ear- apparently louder than she hoped. "What? What did you forget to do three years past, Miss Cummins?" Lincoln's face started to pale. I knew what Jack meant, but raised my hand for her to wait a minute. A stray memory caught my attention. "Ma'am, Jacquelyn's not here to kill you if that's what you're worried about," I told her quietly as several other women had migrated over to us. I glanced at them several times hoping she would get the hint. "Then what is she here TO do, Alexandra?" Lincoln lowered her voice catching my hint. "Ma'am, she's here to save you from all the grief and despair. Jacquelyn has the ability to make you forget...things," I looked around conspiratorially. "Make me forget? Make me forget what?" She looked shocked. "Whatever you allow us, ma'am. I would suggest that you allow her to erase any knowledge of us," I pointed to Mina, Emily, Jamie, Corrine, and Jack, "and the Empress, ma'am," I motioned to myself. "May I also recommend what you have just been witness to?" "So you want me to forget you and your girls were ever here?" "It would be safer for you, ma'am. Who would believe you if, by mistake you mention us, or that you've seen the future?" "I don't believe I know what will become of our lovely gardens should the confederates succeed at invading the city, Alexandra. One would hope the rebel heathens would spare at least a small portion," Mrs. Lincoln broke topic as a couple of women meandered a little too close. "One of my suitors told me that the rebels have no regard for beauty- they just assume ravage it all! It would be better to plant poisoned oak, ivy, or sumac in the gardens. At least we would extract some revenge!" I played along as Mina, Emily, and Corrine nodded in agreement. For whatever reason, Jamie remained surprisingly quiet. "I never thought of that, Alexandra! Surely they would recognize such dangerous plants growing about?" "Not if hidden by other common garden species, ma'am!" I smiled. Apparently the two women that temporarily joined our conversation became bored with such dull botanical talk and quickly moved away to join another t?te-?-t?te. We waited for them to get far enough away before resuming. "Ma'am, the time for decision is here. Jack needs to know what, if any, memories of us you would have her safeguard." "I wish to remember it all, Alexandra! Every last detail of every moment I have been in your presence! It is my wish to never forget any of you and what your importance means to my family- ever!" Again her tone grew angry. "I'm sorry to hear that, ma'am, I really am. Jack, what Allie discussed if you please," I said sadly as Mary Lincoln seemed to freeze a moment before blinking her eyes and shaking her head a few times. "Alexandra, my dear child, you've grown up quite beautiful since the last time we saw each other. How long has it been, child?" "Almost three years ago, ma'am, I try to forget those times and wish not to speak of them. It would only reopen an old wound, ma'am," I looked to the floor as I spoke, just over the music filling the ballroom. "Still, you and your sister provided unwavering support when I needed it most, Alexandra, and I thank you for that. How old are you now, child?" "Twenty-two, ma'am, and Emily just turned twenty-one. Why?" "You two don't look a day over seventeen, Alexandra!" "Thank you, ma'am. Mrs. Lincoln, have I introduced my cousins yet?" I said as both Emily and I blushed. She shook her head. "No, child, I don't believe you have." "How rude of me, ma'am. May I introduce Mina Smith of Manchester England, Corrine Masterson and Jamie Hilf of Albany, New York, and Jacquelyn Cummins of Warwick, Rhode Island. Everyone, this is Mrs. Abraham Lincoln, wife of our President," I said as I introduced each of my 'cousins'. "It is very nice to meet you all," Lincoln said happily, but I noticed her linger a fraction of a second on the word 'you'. She was being extremely careful to not reveal the accent of her birthplace, Lexington, Kentucky. "Alexandra, Emily, how long have you and your cousins been in Washington?" "Not long, ma'am. We had barely the time to wash off the dirt of the road and dress for the occasion at our escort, Sanford Fleming's house, before his father's carriage swept us away to your mansion. Travel to and from Washington these days can be extremely harrowing and uncomfortable, as you know, ma'am." "All unfortunately necessary, ladies. Tell me, were the soldiers courteous along the road?" "As can be expected, ma'am. Some may have overstepped their authority a bit, but most conducted themselves admirably," I told her as I hastily covered my mouth to stifle a yawn. "How thoughtless of me! I've failed to consider the toll you all must be feeling after such a long trip. Tell me, ladies, do you have lodging?" "Mr. Fleming has graciously offered a room or two, ma'am. He is a business associate of Daddy's and can be trusted." "Where is this escort of yours, child?" "I last saw him over with Mr. Lincoln, ma'am," I pointed to Sandy, still listening intently to the president and his officers. "Very handsome, Alexandra! Do I see an announcement in the near future?" She smiled deviously. "The future is as unpredictable as the weather, ma'am- I do hold hope though!" I smiled back. Without another word, Mrs. Lincoln motioned for us to stay put. She then turned and made her way over to her husband, carefully interrupting what looked like a somewhat heated discussion. I saw Sanford steal a glance in my direction a few times as the Lincolns conversed. President Lincoln then looked over at the six of us and, after a moment, smiled. Our hostess rejoined our little group with a satisfied grin. "It's settled. You all will be our guests here at the mansion until your departure from Washington. I shall be very disappointed if any of you should decline. I will send someone to the Fleming residence to fetch your belongings tomorrow, first thing. Shall we seat ourselves at the table as I see the staff has made the final preparations?" Mrs. Lincoln quickly changed the subject as a bell softly rang out in the large hall. 2100hrs, The Presidential Mansion, Washington DC, January 10th, 1865 "Alexandra, should you or any of your cousins require something, just let Gerald know and he will see to it. Gerald is the floor attendant on duty tonight, so sleep with the assurance that he will keep you all safe. I have requested that appropriate bedclothes be sent up for tonight until your things can be collected. Sleep well, ladies." "Thank you for your hospitality, ma'am, it is most unexpected, but appreciated," I said to our hostess with genuine gratitude. We waited until the door shut fully then waited a little while longer before we all relaxed. Our rooms, three in secession, were furnished in the style of the time, two chairs, two bureaus, several original paintings, and boasted what I would call a full sized, four poster, canopy bed. Each of the three rooms had its own color scheme and theme. I quickly accessed my HUD and selected more comfortable clothes from it. A pair of denim shorts, pink cotton tank-top, bra, white ankle socks, and pink sneakers replaced the heavy, cumbersome, period hoop dress, shawl, corset, and pair of leather, high heeled 'granny' boots. Stretching my arms over my head, I basked in the freedom of expanding my lungs and ribcage to their full capacity! Only Jack remained in her period outfit. "How on Earth can you stand being confined in that thing any longer than necessary, Jack?" I asked of my Ex-O. "Our 'bedclothes' will be here any minute now, Cap. I just figured I'd save the pleasure of modern fabrics until they leave," She replied. Unfortunately she made sense and I begrudgingly reselected my period ball gown after emptying my lungs once more. "Hey Alex. What's these two bowls, the pitcher of water, and towels on the dresser for?" Jamie asked innocently. "Miss Hilf, those simple items have been attending bed chambers since the dark ages. Have you never used a chamber pot and toiletries before?" "What, they don't even have a head in the White House? That's disgusting!" She protested, wrinkling her nose. "Not until the turn of the century I think, Jamie, sorry!" I giggled. "We just have to do things the 'old fashioned' way, hon." "I thought our suits were self contained, Alex?" I rolled my eyes. "They are, Jamie, they are." Our conversation was interrupted by gently knocking at the door. Since Jack was closest, she opened it and granted two chambermaids entrance. "Mrs. Lincoln had us bring an assortment of bedclothes for your use, ladies. We had to guess at your sizes and hope they are not too uncomfortable." "Hon, I don't think anything could be more uncomfortable than what I'm confined to now," I said with a wry smile. Both women covered their mouths and giggled. I motioned for them to set the two piles of neatly folded clothing on the bed. "Do you require assistance with your binding, ma'am?" Her question was meant for any of us instead of just me. "No thank you. We've been traveling together for some time now and have grown accustom to assisting each other, but thank you for the offer," I gave them both my best smile. "Very well then, if you should require anything, Mr. Gerald is right down the hall and will fetch us should any need arise. Good night, ladies, ma'am." "Thank you, and good night to you too, ladies," I smiled brightly. The two giggled to themselves before closing the door behind them. "Alexandra, I don't think it is entirely proper to refer to the wait staff as 'ladies'," Mina scolded in her regal tone. "You may have just- how do you Americans say- 'made their day'." "What were they- all of sixteen, Mina? Besides, they must know someone here to get on staff," I rationalized. "They were probably born here, more like, Alexandra. I have heard that, unlike your president, the service staff here remains somewhat constant," Mina stated as she crossed her arms in front of her and raised her nose smugly. Ignoring Mina's sudden regal attitude, I triggered my dress to change. Within seconds I was back to my soft denim shorts, comfy cotton tank, ankle socks, and sneakers. "I don't know about y'all, but I'm going to sleep in this tonight...minus this!" I reached around and unhooked the bra that had just changed back from the sinister corset. As had become habit, I deftly pulled my arms through the straps and pulled the foundation from under my top and tossed it to the bed. "That feels so much better!" I purred after taking a big, unrestricted breath of air. "Jack, I take it Allie will be picking you up in the morning?" I asked as I reveled in another unhindered breath. "She didn't say, Alex. Just that I needed to come back and fix what I fouled up. I guess I'm part of the crew again, huh?" "That goes without saying, Jack," I thought a minute. "So, where is Sandy staying, Jack?" "You took him back to 1952, Alex. You...Allie told me that she had special plans for both of them tonight- something about how hot he looked in his federal period finery, I think," She said punctuating her statement with a wink and devious smile. I didn't have to use my gift to know what she meant. I had been thinking the same thing earlier. "Okay, room assignments are as follows. Corrine and Jamie, Mina and Jack, and Emily and I. We'll meet in this room at 0800 to discuss tomorrow's activities. Good night, ladies, and sleep well." "Skipper?" I glared at Jamie Hilf. "Alex, won't they become suspicious when they can't find Mr. Fleming's house? I mean Sanford Fleming is your future husband...isn't he?" "I'm sure I've already thought about that issue. Go and get some rest, Jamie." Feather stuffed mattresses are not the most comfortable means of achieving sleep- I don't care who you are! They are lumpy, scratchy, and downright impossible to find a happy report with! The duvet, on the other hand, warmed quickly and stayed cozy all night- when I wasn't tossing and turning to find a comfortable position to sleep in that is! On more than one occasion throughout the night, Emily had groused about it and I had retreated to the woolen rug on the floor in front of the room's smoldering fireplace, which I had rekindled for extra warmth. The bedclothes delivered to us plus the duvet proved more comfortable as bedding. Didn't anything remotely comfortable exist in this time? With daybreak came knocking at our door. "They're coming! Everyone wake up!" Jack's voice rang out in my head. Quickly I pulled my 'nest' from the floor throwing them onto the bed. Donning my bra, I selected just my underpinnings to transform. A few seconds later, I found myself again in my corset and bloomers. After pulling down my side of the covers, I moved to Emily's side and gently jostled her shoulder a few times until she fully woke. "We have company, sis! Corset and bloomers like me!" I whispered as another set of knocks befell our door. "I heard! What time is it anyway?" She groused. "Who is it?" I spoke out. "We're here to turn the bed, Ms. Scott," one of our chambermaids answered through the door. "Already?" "It's 6AM, ma'am." Emily and I just looked at each other a minute in complete disbelief! "Just a minute, I'm almost done with my sister's laces," I told them. "They have to see our dresses, sis," I added quietly to just Emily. "We were told to attend you, ma'am," The concerned voice said from the other side the door. Instantly, we both jumped out of bed and triggered our dresses from last night. Joining hands, I took us back about fifteen minutes where we helped each other remove our 'circus tents'. We quickly joined hands again. Two huge dress hoops now sat on the floor at the foot of our bed and two piles of clothing that were our ball gowns, petticoats, and hairnets, now rested on the footboard. "Come on in then, girls- door's open. Far be it for us to deny such gracious hospitality," I said to the closed door as I took position behind Emily. The door slowly opened. To the two arriving pair of eyes, I looked like I was finishing the bow on my sister's corset in preparation for the day. "Ladies, Mrs. Lincoln asked that we launder the gowns from last night. She has dispatched our daytime floor staff to retrieve your belongings. They should arrive here presently. Miss Scott, I see there is space left in your lacing. I'll draw them tighter if you would turn around?" "You'll do no such things, hon!" I verbally pounced and winced at the same time. "I've been nursing four cracked ribs the last few days! The corset stays where it is!" I softened my glare at the helpful pair. "I'm sorry, girls, I'm still tender and Emily just got done finding my sweet spot. Oh, and you two can call me Alex and my sister, Emily. We were taught that using one's name is the highest form of respect." "Yes, ma'am," The two teens harmonized. I glared at them. "Yes, Alex," One intoned while the other girl just giggled. "Breakfast will be with the President and Mrs. Lincoln in the west ballroom, ma'...Alex, at 8 o'clock." "The West Ballroom?" Emily asked with some confusion. "The ballroom that you were in last evening, ma'am." I cleared my throat. "The same room you were in last night, Emily," She rephrased shyly. "Thank you..." Emily stopped, prompting them for names. "Elizabeth, ma...Emily, but everyone calls me Liz," The taller of the two thin, brunettes caught herself. "I'm Sarah, Miss Emily, Miss Alex." "Well, nice to meet you, Liz and Sarah," I smiled. Emily and I looked at each other for a moment then I looked back to our two attendants. "If you could, Emily and I would prefer you leave our gowns here in case our baggage does not arrive in time to prepare for breakfast. I'm sure you'll find the same is true for our cousins. We, unfortunately had a small mishap on the trip to Philadelphia." "Yes," Emily continued, "Our belongings were misplaced and arrived in New York by mistake. If not for the telegraph, our layover there would have been far longer." "We are, however, indebted to Mrs. Lincoln for her forethought and charity of our bed clothing; hopefully we will not require such donation after today. You can take them to be cleaned if you wish," I said with a sincere smile. Sarah had walked over to the dresser. "I'm...we're so sorry, Alex, Emily! How thoughtless of us for bothering you before you had the chance to wash the night off!" She apologized as she noticed the wash towels still folded neatly and the water pitcher full. "We were just getting to that. These last few days, I find it to be quite beneficial to wash after my daily lacing ordeal," To illustrate, I wiped my forehead with my hand and sniffed it. Wrinkling my nose a bit, I must have gotten my point across as both girls giggled quietly to themselves. "You are very humorous, Miss Alex," Elisabeth continued to giggle. "Sarah and I will return later to remake the bed and change the toiletries. Enjoy your morning." The two teenaged chambermaids hurried from our room and we heard them talking to themselves as they moved to the room next door. "I like them, Liz. They aren't near as rude as the other guests." "I think Miss Alex is funny, Sarah." We heard no more after the two were granted entrance to Mina and Jack's room, so we made use of our room's appointments- not that we really needed to with our Reilly suits, doing so created less suspicion. 0830hrs, The Presidential Mansion, Washington DC, January 11th, 1865 "So, Miss Smith, despite the evident hostilities, has your visit so far been a safe one?" Mr. Lincoln asked of Mina as one of the servers poured her tea. "So far we have remained clear of any altercations, sir. Being this close to your enemies does limit my sleep though." "As it does mine, madam. I cannot tell you how many nights I have lain awake trying to predict a possible onslaught. Rest assured our guests are afforded the best possible guard. How about you, Miss Alexandra? Being the daughter of one of our munitions suppliers, how has your safety fared these last four turbulent years?" His question caught me partially off guard- mainly because I'd lapsed in my foresight of this conversation. Lose of sleep can do that sometimes. "Mr. President, even before this war started Emily and I had lost sleep. Father is ever vigilant awaiting the day some saboteur sets his factory to bits! It has carried over to the house staff, as well as his daughters." "So seems the nature of that business, my dear. My hope is that one day the need for your father's products will be limited to celebrations and civil constructions. I fear the disease plaguing this country to divide its self also forces my heart to do so! The sadness I feel for this nation multiplies ten-fold each time I must order one brother to fell the other!" Lincoln looked on the verge of tears, but quickly forced a tight smile. "I am sorry for being so sullen in the presence of such beauty. Such troubling thoughts should not be your concern, ladies," President Lincoln apologized as he looked at me. For some reason I felt very uncomfortable with that look. Did he sense my real agenda somehow? Did he know and was trying to cryptically consol me? "No it shouldn't, Abraham! These girls should have stayed far from this vicinity! They have better things on their minds- like finding a husband, attaining suitable residence, and rearing children!" Mrs. Lincoln added. I noticed my 'cousins' and sister cringe...again, everyone except Mina. "I quite enjoy such conversation, mum," Mina spoke up. She had remained quiet up to this point. "The way your husband speaks o