South Of Bikini 2- Setting The Past Right free porn video

An offer is made to the women of U103. While giving as much information via a meeting with Grand High Counsel Tibius, Alex tries to fulfill one of the rescued German officer's wishes- to say goodbye to his wife- who, in 2029, is long deceased. Will the Empress succeed in saving another lost soul? South of Bikini: Onward Episode 10 "Setting the Past Right" 0757 hours, Reilly Research Station, Kili Island, July 11th, 2029 "Empress, our presence is requested on level three." Tibius' voice said quietly... From within my room! "How did you get in here? I know I disabled the outside door controls after Jack left last night." "You did, but station protocol is to re-enable the director's door in case of incident within the station, Alexandra." "You WOULD know all about the protocols, Tibius! Lights!" I said covering my eyes from the gradual increase in illumination. Tibius stood just inside my door in his official regalia. "New nightdressing, Alexandra? I approve, my love!" He asked, looking at me like a wolf would a lone sheep! Why had I decided to wear my favorite pink nightie? The last thing I wanted to do was present myself to him in such a fashion! "Like it? It's a little something I designed myself." Why did I say that? Moreover, why did I bat my eyes at him just now and...oh God, did I just pose seductively? "RVP, Status of the local telepathic dampening field?" I said quickly! "Dampening field is operational at full power, Alex. Is there a problem, functionally, that my sensors haven't detected?" If everything was working it couldn't be him, it was me! What was I doing? What was happening to me? What was I thinking? I mentally counted the days since my last monthly. It had been three days since leaving 1917: one day back at base to prepare Sand Dollar, one day at sea in 1918, one day at Brie's in 1983. In addition there was the unknown time spent in my domain with Russell Brackenridge, Momma Scott, and Russell's sister, Anna Brackenridge-Vogel. Hours were usually days there so I figured about four days. How long had I been gone while trying to find a safe realm to break the news to Jack's Connie? I had decided to search directly after I'd left Brie's. How many dimensions had I examined? I concentrated harder. When I ran the scenerios, several choices, fifteen in all showed promise. I knew that I hadn't visited them all yet, so how many did I survey? Six? Seven possibly? Choosing six as a good number, I began to think how long I spent in each. A day sounded good. So I had spent another six days scouting out a suitable dimension for all hell- a hell named Constance- to break lose. That only added up to twelve days. I was only in the middle, so why was I flirtin' like a wanton hussy? I needed to ask Emily her professional diagnosis when I had the chance. For living in this body the last fourteen years, I still had a lot to learn! Granted, my crewmates would argue that we'd only been like this for three months, but traveling through time adds up quickly. "Alex? Director, please acknowledge." RVP broke me from my thoughts. "Is there a functional problem my sensors have not detected?" She repeated. "No. No, RVP I was just making sure, that's all, thank you." I responded as I looked to Tibius, still standing by the door. He was almost laughing at me! "What's so funny?" I asked with my best pout. "You are particularly alluring when bewildered, my love." My cheeks burned as I selected my modern dress whites. "My Empress, were you not going to dress as the alluring Aryan Empress we discussed last evening? I thought we agreed that your new sisters would still be attracted and theoretically comprehend more of what was told to them?" Inwardly, I cursed that conversation! "Maybe after I have my coffee and something to eat, Tibius." I nodded. "It has already been provided, my Empress." He motioned to the small table next to my lounge chair. I glared at him for a moment before walking over and taking the cup of hot liquid. Sipping it, I decided that it was just the right temperature to drink. "We only have time for my coffee." I informed him as I drank it straight down. "There, let's go, counselor." I said starting for the door. "Are you forgetting something, Empress?" He asked with a devious smirk. Reluctantly, I selected my Aryan Empress costume and stood on my tiptoes before enabling the change. "Stunning, Alexandra! I believe your ancient Greeks wrote of a woman, Helen, whose features were said to have launched a thousand ships? You, my dearest, could launch a fleet ten times that count to do your bidding- and willingly, I might add!" "Flattery will get you everywhere, Sire." I felt my cheeks burning again! There I go again, I thought. What was wrong with me today? "Empress, if I may?" Tibius chuckled and offered his arm. I smiled involuntarily as my arm intertwined with his. Tibius triggered the door's control. Uncle Rick and Jack were waiting for us in the corridor just outside. I thought the old man would have a heart attack on the spot! "I told you she cleaned up nice." Jack told the two men. She then fell to one knee. "M'lady Alexandra, I took the liberty of retrieving your crown, Empress." She held my tiara out to me at arm's length with both hands as she continued to look toward the floor. "We appreciate the thought and sacrifice, Lady Jacquelyn. You may attend us to our requested destination. Please follow us and attend our esteemed Admiral." I decreed as I carefully placed my tiara on my head. Uncle Rick rolled his eyes while Tibius fought valiantly to hold back his laughter! The four of us proceded, royal fashion, to the elevator and level three. The lift's door opened on a slapstick comedy! My crewmates chased, ducked, retreated, and ineffectively re-corralled ten screaming women, all dressed in ill-fitting Kaiserliche Marine uniforms! The scene before us reminded me of the Buster Keaton, Keystone cops, or Charlie Chaplin silent films of my youth! The four of us watched the comical escapades for several minutes. Tibius gently patted my arm. "Okay, Jack. Enough of the comedy routine for today." Ten screaming women suddenly flew off the floor and hung several feet above it along the corridor wall opposite us in silence! Our crew immediately stopped and turned to us in thanks. "Ya sure took yer time getting' here, Commander!" Ricky Lynn growled as she twisted her Reilly back into position. "Ma'am, I'm sorry things got so out of control. They're faster than they look, Skipper!" Tammy Richards apologized. At Jack's apparent telepathic order, all six crewmen fell into formation and stood to attention while the ten, silenced, securely detained, women squirmed spastically on the wall behind them. "Admiral Demmit, the security detail is present and accounted for, sir!" Jack announced. "Thank you, Miss Cummins. Empress, the new recruits are ready for your review." He announced as he and Jack exited the elevator. Tibius and I followed in royal fashion. My sisters' eyes widened, having never seen my Aryan Empress look before! "Hooooly, shit!" Kaylee Andrews exclaimed quietly. Chief Samuels whistled. Tammy Richards gulped loudly. Jamie Hilf gave me a bright, cheerful smile. Another ten pair of eyes bulged from behind them! "Thank you, ladies; that will be all. Miss Cummins?" "Detail! Dismissed!" Jack said loudly. All six crewmen broke rank and entered the elevator, bowing slightly as they passed Tibius and I. Slowly, Tibius and I approached our new 'recruits'. I eyed each one menacingly. "They smell as if they haven't taken a bath in decades!" I exclaimed scrunching up my nose. "They will receive a proper cleansing, I assure you, Empress. They have just awoken from they're Mahanilui." Admiral Demmit explained. "There is no excuse for lack of proper hygiene, Admiral!" I said raising my hand to stop any more excuses. "Of course, Empress." He yielded with his own modest bow. "What do you have to say for yourselves?" I glared at the one I knew to have been Manfred Heinz. She was now about five-four, had shoulder length brown hair, and a lithe, but athletic body. Tears streamed from her eyes in response, as her mouth wouldn't open. "Allow her to speak, Miss Cummins." I ordered with a predatory grin. "As you wish, Empress." She nodded. "You will answer the Empress, woman!" "Have we all caught this 'Temporal Flu' you spoke of, Empress?" I laughed evilly. "Miss Heinz, there is no such thing as the Temporal Flu. That is something we made up to entice your consumption of alcohol." "You wanted us drunk? Why?" "Tell me your name and rank, hun." I commanded. "You already know my name, Empress!" The girl replied angrily. "You will answer the Empress in a civil tongue, woman, or it will cease to function once more!" Heinz looked terrified as Jack took a step toward her. "Heinz, Manfred H, Captain, Kaiserliche Marine U103." She answered timidly. "Well Miss Heinz, I'm afraid Capt. Manfred H. Heinz died one hundred and eleven years ago. In fact, you all died one hundred and eleven years ago. You all look remarkably fit for being that age, but I'd work on the gender issue a little more, girls." "But we were men just yesterday." "Yesterday is but a memory, Miss Heinz. You yourself said it was impossible to travel back to it." "I was the one that said that, Empress." Hans, now Honi, Meyer volunteered politely, if quietly. Tibius and I moved in front of her and I stared into her eyes as Admiral Demmit had taught me. "That one is going to be trouble, mother." Alexis admitted as she approached from down the hallway. Another brown haired woman of nineteen or twenty walked with her. Both were wearing their default Reilly suits. Heidi had already acclimated herself to her new body's feminine gait. Even so, she grew nervous the nearer she got to us. "Good morning, Heidi. I trust you slept well?" "Yes, Empress, my room and furnishings were more than adequate, thank you." Her German accent was noticed by her former crewmates. Ten heads turned almost simultaneously in her direction. "You are German?" Miss Honi Meyer accused. "I am. That is, I was, sister. My name is Heidi...Heidi Wolmacher." "Traitor!" Exclaimed Meyer as she fought against the invisible force holding her to the wall. "Miss Meyer, it is useless to fight my Mind Warrior's gift. We do not wish you to harm yourself." I advised calmly. "Put me down," Honi ordered! "There are rules protecting prisoners of war from such torture!" The disheveled girl's face flushed as she began to slip to the floor! "Miss Cummins, boost your output, please." I asked calmly. The air around us began to smell of ozone. "Very good, Miss Meyer, you have found your gift." Alexis congratulated as she approached her. "What are you talking about, frauline? What gift?" "Why, the gift your Mahanilui has given you, Honi. If you would let my mother explain, you would learn that each of you has been given a specific gift." Alexis scolded. "Hans, it isn't that bad...being like this." Heidi told her new sister. "I thought just as you last night before the Empress patiently explained things to me. I feel like a new person! Any ailments I had previously have disappeared completely! Remember my deformed ribcage that I've had since birth? Gone! Perfectly normal! This Mahanilui is a miraculous thing, my sisters. Please listen to the Empress, I beg all of you!" "How can we be sure you are Heinrich Wolmacher, frauline?" Honi questioned, her red face subsided slightly as she examined her supposed crewmate. "Check your right forearm, Honi, you will find the scar from that Beergarden fight completely gone." "How do you know about that?" She asked as Jack allowed her to raise and examine her right arm. She gasped seeing unblemished skin! "Captain," Heidi continued, "The fingertip you lost before the war...have you looked at it since waking?" I nodded to Jack to lower the women to the floor. Once touching it, Heinz wiggled her right ring finger in amazement. A smile crept onto her face as she examined it and her longer fingernails. Honi Meyer brusquely pushed past Heidi and Alexis and took off running! Heidi shook her head several times, disappointed in her new sister. She made it halfway around the far corner before we saw her feet reemerge on the corner's floor. She was apparently lying on her face. Honi's unconscious body rejoined her sisters about ten seconds later. Jack put her back against the wall with a devious smirk. "Would anyone else like to try Miss Cummins' patience?" I asked the other nine. After several minutes of silence, Honi began to groan as she awoke. "Miss Meyer, you may have received your gift quickly, but you are inexperienced and are no match for Lady Jacquelyn. I would listen to Miss Wolmacher if I were you. Oh, and you are not prisoners, my sisters, you are welcome to leave at any time." "How are we not prisoners, Empress? You hold us captive?" Heinz spoke for his crew. "It was for your own safety, Miss Madeline Heinz. From experience, we know how disorienting the Mahanilui can be. I have heard tell that there have even been some who choose death over life as a gifted woman. If y'all promise to behave yerselves, I'll tell the story of how the Empress came to be... and the part you can choose to play in your new home." I nodded to Jack to release Honi Meyer. "Ladies, if you will please enter the elevator? We'll go up to my private conference room where you can ask any manner of questions once I have conveyed my information. All we ask is that you listen to what we have to tell you and think about all of it rationally and intelligently." "Empress, if you can see the future as you told me last night, then why even give us a choice? Shouldn't you already know what we decide?" Heidi asked curiously. "Even though I have seen a satisfactory conclusion to all this, there have been times when Time itself has thrown in a twist or two, Miss Wolmacher. As I have said many times- to many people over the years- your future is what you ultimately decide to make it. I can only advise and guide those I interact with in hopes that they make an intelligent choice, not one based on resentment or hatred toward me. So yes, I saw the proper outcome to all your futures, but you are free to choose whether you take that path or not. I cannot stop you." "So, you say we can change our futures- that you will not interfere with that decision?" "We have already interfered in your lives by rescuing you from the middle of the North Atlantic, Mandy Heinz." Our group remained quiet until seated in the fourth level administrative conference room next to the director's office. When all ten women gave me their attention, I began my presentation. "My name is Alexandra Steinert. I am a Commander in the United States Navy in 1944. My submarine, the Sand Dollar, is the first of her kind- built as a weapon of war to help defeat the Axis powers of Germany, Italy, and Japan. Before March 27th, 1944, I was Commander Alexander Steinert, US Navy. My first mission was to evacuate the residents of this very island in advance of the Japanese invading it..." 1057 hours, Reilly Research Station, Kili Island, July 11th, 2029 "So now I'll turn this session over to Grand High Counsel, Tibius of the planet Terra. Thank you all for giving me your time and patience. Sire?" I thanked them then stepped aside to allow Tibius the floor. "Thank you, Alexandra. Ladies, you have heard the Empress correctly. I am indeed alien to this planet you call Earth. If it wasn't for Alexandra, and her peaceful excursion to our stricken world, I might not be here under these conditions." "Approximately nine hundred of your years ago, we discovered, unfortunately too late, that our sun, Solara, was entering its second stage of existence- that it would shrink in size from a yellow sun such as yours, to what is called a blue dwarf. Its light, heat, and radiation outputs would more than double, causing catastrophic destruction planet-wide. We were doomed unless we could find some way to protect ourselves from these increases!" A plan was conceived to genetically alter our bodies to make them less susceptible to the expected harsh conditions. It was decided that besides hardening our bodily defenses, that we would also increase our longevity and enhance our natural abilities of telepathy." "What we hadn't counted on was the loss of our ability to produce female offspring. After our plan was set in place and enacted, we found that only male children were born to our mates. Without new females being borne, we realized that we had sealed our fate better than Solara ever could have. Although we now lived longer, our remaining females dwindled and finally became extinct. My generation was the last to be borne on Terra. Until the Empress suddenly appeared one afternoon in Citadel's city gardens." "Alexandra and her companions proved remarkably unaffected by our methods of protection and," Ya? You call that unaffected?" Jack interrupted. Tibius cleared his throat and continued. "And after being assured that they meant us no harm, we welcomed them to our world. As you can see, the Empress and all her sisters possess ageless beauty and several members of my staff took an instant liking to them. My own sights had been set on Alexandra from the first moment I laid eyes on her!" I felt myself blushing as all eyes landed on me! "With their cooperation, permission, and...and charity, four female children were born on Terra for the first time in almost nine hundred years. My daughter, Alexis, was the first and I have never been so proud in my long life!" Tibius smiled to Alexis, who blushed immediately! "Over the next thirty years, the Empress helped us increase our female population by finding more volunteers to aid in that repopulation- which now stands at one hundred. It seems the combination of you 'special' Earth women and our Terran men may have saved our world. Still, there is more work to be done. Before our vain attempt to save our people, women out numbered men four to one. After my precious Alexis was born, she became the rarest commodity on all Terra- imagine, one of only four females on a planet of one billion!" "As I remember it, the demand for the four of us caused rioting in the streets, Grand High Counsel." I interjected. "The male murder rate went up as well, Empress." He added with a raised eyebrow before continuing his presentation. "With your permissions, ladies, I would like to take you on a telepathic tour of Citadel, the political center and largest city, on Terra." After three pancakes and another cup of coffee, I noticed the girls' eyes started blinking as Tibius finished his virtual tour of his hometown. Honi Meyer's face grew angry and she glared at him. "You are asking us to be breeding stock?" "Do not make it sound so crude, Miss Meyer! The women of Terra are only treated with the highest respect, reverence, and love. There is no division between the sexes as here on Earth. Male and female Terrans alike are treated equally and are given the same tasks and stipends. My ladies, do not think that we are so callus or controlling as to simply take you as breeding stock! You are entirely free to decline my offer and stay with the Empress if you wish. I only ask that you think about what I have presented. It would be an opportunity to help your galactic neighbors and to continue the humanitarian efforts set forth by Ladies Alexandra, Jacquelyn, Randi, and Takashi some ninety-eight of my years ago. Think about it, ladies of the Empress' sisterhood. Thank you for your time and attention." Tibius bowed honorably to everyone at the long table and walked off to the side where he took his seat. It was refreshing to see that all eleven women were deep in thought and hopefully weighing their options. "Grandmother Empress, may I address our sisters?" Alexandra asked as she appeared in the doorway. "With all due respect, Grandfather, I would like to have my voice heard?" "Ladies, my granddaughter Alexandra, Empress of Time and Space." A confused hush fell over our new sisters! They looked between the two of us repeatedly. "Yes, ladies, we look and are the same woman. I am what Grandmother refers to as 'The Future Empress'. Genetically, we are identical. As abilities go, we both manipulate time and space in exactly the same way. I believe she would say we possess the same gift. But, there is a difference between grandmother and I as there are differences between grandmother and the 'Past Empress', Alexandra Reilly, the original director of this research facility. Our experiences. Experiences shared between me, grandmother, and Alexandra Reilly are what define the Empress, my sisters. We use the shared knowledge to facilitate repair and guarantee continuance of the time stream in each dimension and universe. Sometimes we even combine our gift when the need warrants." "Right now, you feel vengeful toward us- you most likely hate us. That is to be expected considering what you each have given up in the past twenty-four hours. From grandmother's memories, I can tell you that the vengeance, the hate- even the self-loathing will pass, as will the feeling of loss. If you have yet to be informed, the crew of Sand Dollar shared your frustrations and emotional tirades after experiencing their Mahanilui, but they stand here today fully acclimated and accepting of their changes. They too lost everything they knew and loved. There was even concern that Sand Dollar herself would be scrapped and her crew taken to some laboratory for experimentation! If not for the forward thinking of my Great-Uncle Richard that is exactly what would have happened. Earth is not as liberal as Terra and her peoples. Here, there is bias, bigotry, hate, discrimination, and racism. Women in many countries on Earth are still treated like second or third class citizens- in some cases livestock is treated with more reverence!" She paused and took a sip from my offered coffee cup. "Do not think Terra is not without her faults and therefore a veritable utopia. There is still much work before we can say the sexes are truly equal and there is still bias, hate, and discrimination within a small distribution of our people, but progress is made every day- more so since Alexandra Steinert-Fleming first visited our world." "In case you are wondering, I can attest to the inequalities of Terra personally. Growing up, I was considered 'different' from the other children because I lacked the basic ability of telepathy- a genetic characteristic of our world. Because I lacked the ability to read a person's mind, I was shunned- even bullied, as a child! As my gift developed though, I used it to anticipate what would be said to me and therefore appeared to be telepathic. There was also the advantage of moving through time and using the knowledge gained on my trips to counter any would-be aggressors!" "A wise traveler once took me with her and explained how I was special- even more special than the individuals around me in that I could influence their lives for the better. She told me how I could make a difference- not just for an individual, but also for the universes." "I have never known my grandmother to do anything that would adversely affect anyone or anything. She...we make sure that the changes we make or attempt to make assure time moves securely on track. If the Empress of Time and Space has seen that you bring beneficial contributions to the known universes through your changes, trust our foresight, experience, and impartial decisions. As anyone here can attest, the Empress watches out for and protects those she considers friends and family. If she has brought you here and shared with you our secrets and gifts, we must consider you all sisters and therefore relatives of the Empress of Time and Space." Alexandra paused to take another sip of coffee and clear her throat before continuing. Her face grew very serious now and she glared at the ten new women seated before her. "The Grand High Counselor has not asked any of you to prostitute yourselves just to increase our numbers on Terra, he is offering you a chance to do something decent and noble- something you will be proud to have done- not for yourselves, but for humanity! Yes, humanity...we are all human at this table- albeit in varied stages of evolution. You would be surprised how many galaxies humans inhabit- how many different universes we inhabit. Earth isn't a stronghold for us, as many here think; rather, it is an outpost- just one solar system in a near infinite number of systems." "Like my grandmother before me, I have also done my part to assure that a civilization continues. Markus, please come in now." A tall man of maybe twenty-five entered with a young child in his arms- a girl with golden hair! "This is my daughter, Alexia. She is the latest female Terran born just two years ago. She will also be the last female to be born on Terra before Solara enters its third stage of existence." Alexis and Tibius gasped, obviously seeing the child for the first time. "I would ask that each of you explore the feelings this child conjures within you. It is an integral part of who you now are- of what you can be- what is attainable! It can also be very rewarding and gratifying." "Because of the Empress' charity, you now have the power- the ability- to affect a civilization! You have been given the power to grant life, my sisters!" Alexia started to fuss and Alexandra offered her arms to the child. Instead of accepting her ma's outstretched hands, Alexia instead looked directly at me and babbled, "Em'pess!" as she reaching out to me! "How do you do that, Grandmother? When you are around Alexia always prefers your shoulder to mine. I just don't understand it." "Differences, Alexandra, it's the differences." I giggled as I stood to take the child. Alexia began laughing, clapping her hands together, and drooling. The emotions I was feeling at the moment brought back future memories of my own children. Looking around, I noticed the expressions on every woman in the room soften. Alexandra and I exchanged knowing looks as I passed sweet little Alexia back to her ma. Alexis stood and mother, daughter, and granddaughter embraced in the corner opposite the doorway. "Thank you, Alexandra, Second granddaughter of the Grand High Counsel of Citadel, Terra." I said as I glared at the former U103 officers. "Thank you for setting our sisters straight on our motives. I'm sure they will all give a great deal of consideration to our offer of a loving, secure, home on Terra and Terra Nuevo when the time comes." Tibius had gone over to Markus and congratulated him. They held forearms and Tibius unexpectedly pulled his Grandson-in-law to him. "Once again the Empress of Time and Space has out maneuvered this old politician. I'm sorry if I've apparently been preoccupied the last few years, son. Planning for the relocation of a whole planet is a time consuming endeavor." "Grand High Counsel, you worry too much. The move to Terra Nuevo will proceed smoothly- and in sufficient time as to avoid any distortions from Solara. It is a beautiful world, Grand High Counsel." The younger man reassured his elder. "Sire, if you require that the whole planet be moved to another galaxy, allow me to fetch Alex Reilly and together I'm sure the three Empresses could manage the feat with nary a wet brow." I suggested noticing ten sets of ears perk up. "No, my love, I must decline. Our computations have proven that the appearance of another planetary mass around Terra Nuevo's sun would accelerate its decline into its next stage. Of course you have seen that scenario I'm sure, Alexandra." Alexandra turned to her grandfather and we both smiled simultaneously at him. "Richard, does the Empress enjoy these mannerisms in your company also?" "You should see when four of them get together, High Counsel. It becomes truly intolerable then!" "High Counsel, Richard? I thought we were well beyond those formalities?" "I was brought up to respect my elders, sire." "Richard, I propose that you have spent too much time in the Empress' company! I am but a mere six hundred Terran years in this existence." "I rest my case, sire." Uncle Rich chuckled. "Ouch! Again, out-manuevered by an Earther!" Tibius laughed. "Alex, shouldn't we get back to the subject at hand?" Jack asked from her seat at the far end of the table. She and Heidi had been quiet during the whole meeting so far, but talking nonetheless. 'I take it that Heidi has found a portion of her gift, Jack?' I thought to her. 'A portion of my gift, Empress?' Heidi answered instead. I smiled toward the other end of the table. 'You mean there is still something more miraculous, Empress?' She added in my head. Again I smiled at her. "So, ladies, I trust the Empress has provided enough information for each of you to make an intelligent decision about your futures?" "Empress," Honi Meyer asked in a tiny voice? "A question. Good! I was hoping there would be at least a couple." I responded as Alexandra and I smiled. "How...um...how do you do it? Keep yourself separate and straight...person- wise?" "Oh, that's easy, Honi. I'm the one with the blue eyes- for right now." I laughed. Her sour expression told me I had answered the question properly- by my perspective! "Grandmother! Must you continually tease?" Alexandra scolded. "Miss Meyer, I admit it is very confusing. There are still occasions where I forget if I am Alex, Allie, Allison, or Lexi- we share so many memories amongst each other. As we travel together on our missions, you all will warm to the proper references. I would advise bringing an ample supply of anti-inflammatories the first several trips though." She smiled deviously. "That's if we submit to your proposal, of course." Honi replied with a smug expression. "Of course." Alexandra's smile grew even more evil. Honi's expression fell immediately! "And you accuse me of teasing!" I laughed. "Empress, we are frightening our sisters." "Confounding, yes, Empress! Frightening? I seriously doubt that, given their individual gifts." "What do you mean? Are we to become monsters of some kind?" Madeline Heinz asked in alarm. "Nothing a well disciplined Mind Warrior couldn't cope with, Miss Heinz." "You mean I will..." "No, no, Miss Heinz! Constance, Jacquelyn's daughter, is the resident senior Mind Warrior on Terra. She will tutor all ten of you in the Terran protocols concerning illegal telepathic intrusion." I winked toward Heidi Wolmacher and smiled. Miss Wolmacher quickly turned and stared at Jack in absolute amazement. I assume more conversation went on between the two. "How about you?" Heinz turned toward Heidi, contempt in her eyes. "You have been quiet during this entire briefing. Have you made your decision so quickly, Wolmacher?" Jack and Heidi nodded once to each other as if finishing their silent, private conversation. "Herr Captain, having already experienced this fantastic Mahanilui, and already developing at least some of my gift, I am actively contemplating starting my new life in another part of the galaxy. As the Empress has stated previously, our prior lives ended off the coast of Ireland that day in 1918. Here in 2029, even my two children are long-since departed, so what importance is it to dwell on what we left behind or what we have lost already?" "That is exactly the wrong way to think of your past, Heidi! Throughout history those that have forgotten the past have inevitably doomed themselves to repeating the same mistakes. Never forget the experiences in your previous life, Heidi- embrace them! Allow them to teach and guide how you live your life from this day forward!" I scolded. The woman was quiet for a moment. "I never got to tell her goodbye." She said, almost above a whisper. I saw tears forming in her eyes. It always worried me when things went as prophesized. I walked around the table. "Miss Wolmacher, please stand up." I asked gently and offered my hand. Her unspoken question was obvious in her face. 'Please take my hand, Heidi. No harm will come to you.' I thought to her as I smiled. Standing, she cautiously took my hand. 'I think someone would like to talk to you, Miss Wolmacher.' I thought, as the conference room became a void dimly lit by a small unmoving yellow sun. I immediately felt her grasp tighten. "This is my private domain, Heidi. It is perfectly safe to release the death grip on my hand." "You said there was someone here that wanted to talk to me? I see no one but us." "Why am I here? What is this dismal place? How did I get here?" A woman's voice demanded in heavy German. "Liebschen?" Wolmacher cried out, slightly recognizing the voice. "Who calls me? The voice is not known to me!" "Frau Wolmacher, please follow the sound of my voice and step into the light." I asked of the unseen voice. "Why should I follow another strange voice in such a strange place? I demand to know who calls me!" The irate voice demanded. "Honey, when the Empress of Time and Space calls you, you obey without question? Now come on!" Momma Scott's voice echoed around us. Two women emerged from the darkness. Momma Scott appeared first pulling a small, very agitated, elderly woman with short, pure white hair. Heidi's expression deflated immediately. "I thought for a second I heard my wife's voice. Who is this, Empress?" "Momma Scott, Hilde Wolmacher, my I present Heidi Wolmacher, one of my newest sisters." "Who are you, 'frauline'? Where is this Empress?" The older woman growled! "Hilde, you will not talk to my daughter in that tone of voice! Show some manners!" Ruth Scott scolded. "Beggin' yer pardon madam, I'm the Empress of Time and Space, Alexandra Steinert. I have someone here who was so worried about you that she wanted to talk with you before making a life changing decision. Before we continue let me even things out." I said as I concentrated on the image of Hilde Wolmacher, as she looked in 1918- that Jack had liberated from Heidi's mind moments before we left the conference room. The years began to melt from the elderly woman's face and frame. The pure white hair returned to its natural red and grew longer. Her spine straightened and a young woman's dress replaced her present sixties era garb. The Elder Wolmacher immediately noticed and began running her hands up and down her younger form. "Thanks Alex, she looks much better now." Momma Scott smiled. "My God! Hilde was that really you? How did you get so old?" Heidi exclaimed in surprise. "Lt. Wolmacher, you have a lot to learn about paying a compliment to a woman!" I chided. "Who are you child?" Hilde stopped examining herself and looked to my companion. She then looked at me. "How do you know Lt. Wolmacher? That was my husband's rank when he was lost at sea?" She said in surprise. "Hildegard Wolmacher, my daughter may look too young, but she has met your Heinrich." The younger looking woman glared at me so intensely that I thought both Heidi and I would begin to melt. "Thanks, Ma; that helped loads." I said sarcastically. "What my mother meant to say, Mrs. Wolmacher, is that my submarine crew rescued Lt. Heinrich Wolmacher from the North Atlantic May 12th, 1918, along with ten of his fellow crewmen." "Rescued? Why did he not come home after the surrender?" Her eyes grew narrow. "How could a woman use a submersible to rescue anyone? The Kaiserliche Marine only allowed men, as does the American Navy!" "Hilde, my daughter is the leader of a special group of women! You heard me call her the Empress of Time and Space just a minute ago- well, she can literally travel time and space as she sees fit! Alexandra travels to different periods in time to...to make things right that may have strayed from the path...so to speak." Hilde glared at me again; this time she also widened it to include Heidi, who had wisely remained quiet. "If that is to be believed then where is my Heinie, 'Empress'?" Her tone lacked no kindness or subtlety! "First, Mrs. Wolmacher, you must understand the conditions that day." I began. She crossed her arms and waited impatiently for me to continue. I wondered how these two had ever been married. "When we arrived in 1918, the surface conditions of the North Atlantic were terrible at best. The air temperature was ten degrees Celsius with a sustained wind of twenty knots out of the northeast." Heidi tapped my shoulder. I let her continue the tale. "We had been on wolf pack when two of our fellow U-boats sustained failure and signaled that they would attempt to leave the targeted shipping lane to make repairs. Capt. Heinz decided to continue our patrol independently." "How can this child relate facts of that day when she clearly..." "Hilde, let the dear have her say, hun." Momma interrupted. "The story gets better." Heidi closed her eyes for a few seconds and prepared to continue. "The lookout had spotted smoke on the horizon and the captain ordered us to submerge until we could positively identify the ship. He also ordered us to maximum submerged speed. By his bearings, we would pass well ahead of it and would come about if it looked promising." At this point Heidi paused and shook her head a few times. Her eyes began to moisten as she recalled that next half hour of her previous life. "We had no warning that the Troop ship had changed course and was now heading directly at us. The collision was unavoidable! Heinz ordered us to the surface and we barely had time to take to the lifeboats before the 103 slipped below the waves for the last time." The ship never stopped, instead proceeding on its way. It never made any attempt to rescue us!" "For twenty minutes we suffered the raging wind and waves until an American destroyer appeared and began rescue operations. Twenty-two of us were still afloat when they mysteriously ceased recovery! From what we could hear over the furious winds they had spotted something on the horizon. The ship quickly got underway and immediately began to turn into the tempest. It was then that we spotted the reason! A wall of water ten meters in height was bearing down on us! We had no recourse but to pray that it would be over quickly and painlessly." Stopping to compose herself, Heidi wiped her cheeks dry and took a big breath. "To our amazement, nine of us had survived the monstrous wave! Someone pointed to a man swimming, waving and shouting frantically a short distance from our overturned lifeboat. It took several minutes, but we managed to reach him and pull him back to the overturned boat. That is when we first saw the periscope not fifty meters away. It looked like no other we had ever seen before and as we watched it grew in height. Within a minute a strange looking submersible numbered 353, surfaced between four others and us. Several of its crew appeared on the foredeck. We were wondering how they would attempt our safe rescue in such deplorable conditions when suddenly we were lifted from the water, boat and all, and deposited on the strange submersible's deck. It was only then we heard them speaking English. They were American!" Hilde Wolmacher remained quiet, but grew visibly agitated. "So what does this have to do with my Heinie? Is he alive or not, 'Empress'? She groused, mocking me. "I survived, Lieben!" Heidi cried out. "You, Schlampe, are not Heinrich Wolmacher! Why have you wasted my time, you who calls herself 'Empress'?" "If you'd shut your trap, frau Wolmacher, the girl will explain! Now hush and listen!" An angered Ruth Scott scolded! "Why must you Germans be so difficult?" Heidi looked to me with pleading eyes- her face looked so sad, but I nodded for her to continue. "We were taken below and given blankets and rations- all twelve of us! No one could explain how Johan and Fritz suddenly were among us again! Hans said that he had seen them disappear under the waves just seconds before the submersible had surfaced. They even somehow increased the temperature in the compartment we were seated in to warm us! Within minutes our uniforms had dried and feeling returned to our extremities. That is when we first laid eyes on the Empress." "She and her Admiral informed us that we had been brought aboard the Sand Dollar, her flagship, which was part of her Temporal Fleet. One of the men among us turned out to be an American who had somehow fallen overboard from the destroyer. The Admiral apparently knew this American and exposed him to us, but didn't seem worried that we were enemies." Heidi took another long breath. "Hilde, I've seen the future! The Empress took us to the future! To the year 2029, Hilde, can you believe it? I've seen one hundred and eleven years into the future! Isn't that amazing?" "Oh, very interesting, Schlampe! It is very believable evidence to who you claim to be! Tell me, how many of you did Heinrich have in each port?" "Hilde, I am not a slut, nor was I ever unfaithful to you! I am trying to tell you how I came to look like this!" "I've heard enough! You three have tried my patience long enough, I'm leaving!" I watched Heidi's expression fall! This woman was downright rude and I couldn't hold my tongue any longer! Diplomacy be damned- in all the times and people I've called here, Hilde Wolmacher was the most inhospitable entity to date and she needed to be told so! "Frau Wolmacher!" I hissed in anger. "You WILL leave this place when I say so and not one second sooner! This is my domain and I will have civility!" I began to bring an image into my mind as I continued my warning! "You are my guest here and will behave accordingly or I will repeal any and all generosity!" The cross, bitter old woman began to shift and change back to her original shape. She now matched her attitude as far as I was concerned! Heidi's expression turned to one of shock. "Why has she grown old again, Empress? She asked. "I just returned her to the form that she, herself conveys, Miss Wolmacher. It was a mistake for me to blindly offer the appearance of youth when there was no reciprocal gratitude! Something offered in friendship and not accepted as such shouldn't have been given in the first place!" I argued with more anger than I even expected. "Alexandra! That is not the way you were brought up, young lady! A gift, once given, should never be rescinded- no matter what the recipient's response!" Ruth Scott reprimanded me. "Some 'Empress'!" The old woman spat! "Nothing more than a spoiled child- as I suspected!" The elder Wolmacher mocked! "If this is truly your 'private' domain and if you really did change my appearance, then show me that this 'schlampe' is indeed my deceased husband, oh mighty 'Empress'!" Momma Scott and I stared at the bitter woman, amazed by her venom and audacity! After a few moments we looked to each other. Could it be done? Could I actually manipulate the appearance of someone on my side of this realm? I had never tried or even considered such a thing! Was it possible? I raised my eyebrows in wonder, an expression mirrored by Ruth Scott as she looked at me. She then nodded for me to try. I nodded back. Carefully, I closed my eyes and brought an image of Heinrich Wolmacher back into my mind. I began to concentrate on it intensely while calling the form to me as I would Ruth Scott, Grandpa, or...Hilde Wolmacher. I wasn't aware of it working until I opened my eyes to see Hilde Wolmacher and Momma's eyes bulging! I felt strange, and a bit light- headed. Cautiously, I turned my gaze to Heidi...correction...I turned my gaze to Heinrich! He was already running his hands over his male form in total disbelief! "You did it, but how?" He stared at me then gasped. "And at what cost to you, Empress?" He asked quietly raising his hand to my face and wiping something from just below my nose. "Blood...from your nose, Empress!" He said with concern, showing me his finger. "You should not have pushed so hard at this old fool's challenge! I am sorry you have hurt yourself, frauline!" "Some all-powerful Deity!" Hilde Wolmacher heckled with an evil sneer! "Such a simple undertaking for someone claiming the power to control time and space! Oh look, she bleeds just like us!" She cackled. Heinrich's face grew red with anger. "You cannot possibly be my lovely and kind-hearted, Hilde! How dare you denigrate the Empress in such an arrogant, smug manner, you ignorant, old sow! You will know your place and abide there, old woman! This woman, Empress Alexandra- the woman that saved my life...you will show her the proper respect! How dare you mock the kindness and charity shown to either of us?" "Heinrich? It is you! Where have you been all these years? I've missed you so much!" The elder woman started to come closer to him as her tone softened considerably. "Stay back you old, misshapen, crone! You do not deserve that which you have not given! The Empress was right to have taken aback her generous gift of youth from you! What has become of you, Hildegard Lesch? Where have your manners gone since that day?" "They were ripped from me the day the letter arrived, Heinrich! That day, my entire life drained from me as I read that you had been reported missing somewhere in the Atlantic! Did you know it took our government over a year to report your loss? The children, they didn't...couldn't understand why you wouldn't be home- ever! "That is reason to treat this woman in such an ugly manner?" Heinrich accused as he took a step back from her. "I should think you would be elated that I had survived and that I was being given a second chance! How could you be so cold and evil to this woman whose only mission is to protect our existence and save as many people as the timeline can tolerate?" As much as I wanted to enjoy her comeuppance, I still felt lightheaded. Heinrich turned his head and looked at me as he took another step away from what once was his wife. He gasped again- this time louder and more intensely. "Empress, holding this form for me is apparently taking a heavy toll on you!" He said calmly. "I fully accept the new life offered me and do not wish you anymore harm on my behalf. Please release me, Empress. Release me from this cursed male form and return me to the form for which I have been given a second chance. I wish to no longer set eyes upon such a wicked and vile creature- the beast that calls herself my beautiful and kind Hilde! Leave my sight, hag, and fill your remaining existence with the thoughts of how this reunion should have developed! Think of the form the Empress willingly granted you and how you simply discarded it without consideration or thanks! Think of how things could have been in your later years had you accepted me for who I am and not just my appearance! Go now and wallow in the evil depression you have brought on this day. I wish to never see you again, Hildegard Lesch!" My dizziness disappeared immediately as I granted Heidi's wish to return to her female form. I felt pins and needles in my left leg and I might have stumbled a little. A hand caught me on either side. Ruth Scott held me on the left, while Heidi Wolmacher held my right side. "Alex, are you okay? You look like you're ready to pass out!" Momma asked as the two steadied me. "Heinrich! You can't do this to me! I've waited so long to see you again, Heinrich!" The old crone cried. "Please, you must stay Heinrich! We must be together! You must get me out of here, mine leiben!" "As you so ardently stated...I am no longer your husband! My name is Heidi Wolmacher, I am nineteen years of age, single, and I am one of the Empress's sisters!" Heidi turned her back on the old woman. "You may dismiss her now, my Empress, we are through!" I nodded sadly and mentally released the older woman from my domain. "Heinrich! Don't leave me! I need you, Heinrich! You're the only one that can rescue me from this...place! Heinrich, I'm sorry I was so rude! HEINRICH YOU @#$|%%|!" Hilde Wolmacher faded from our presence, as did her screams and curses. Heidi immediately turned her head into my shoulder and began crying. "What was I thinking? You should have never brought me here, Empress. This was a big mistake. I'm sorry you were hurt by this, ma'am- please forgive me." She sobbed. "I apologize for the way my wife treated you, Empress. I never thought she could be so cruel." "Alex." I said to her softly. "What?" She lifted her head slowly and looked into my eyes. "My name is Alex, Heidi. I'd like y'all to call me Alex." "But Empress...!" "Sweetheart, when my daughter tells someone they should call her 'Alex', she's just made you a bonefide member of the family. You best call her by that name from now on." Ruth Scott suggested with a giggle. "Welcome to the family, sweetie." Momma announced as she raised her arms to my companion and pulled her into a tight embrace. "Momma, I'm afraid we should go." I said quietly after a minute. "Alexandra is waiting for our return to Reilly. She, Markus, and young Alexia are eager to return to Terra. Also, I must prepare for my next mission." "You don't have to go it alone, Alexandra. You need but to ask and several of us will be there for you, honey." Momma Scott offered. "That's very kind of you momma, but I promised Alex I'd help her. She's the one that has to face what has been done." "Well then I wish you good luck, Empress of Time and Space; my wonderful Alexandra. Heidi, know that we will be watching on your behalf too, child. Never forget that there are others here that care deeply for you and what you are doing for the good of us all. There will always be friends and family watching over you, Heidi Wolmacher." "Thank you, Frau Scott. I am sorry for the way Hilde behaved. I would have never thought she would become so spiteful." "It wasn't your fault, dear girl. Some people handle the loss of a loved one very badly. Few though, transfer that hate in such a way as your Hilde did. She will realize her mistakes in time and you may see her again. Believe me, she will have a long time to think things through...especially where you sent her, my dear." "But I didin't send her anywhere, Frau Scott. What do you mean?" "Some beings call it the 'underworld'- some call it 'purgatory', others simply cut the bull and call it 'hell'. In our domain though, we simply call it 'time out'." Momma Scott explained. She giggled a couple times. "Because you refused her...'cursed' her, some would say, she has been sent somewhere to think and learn her lesson about how she behaved. We have very strict rules on how we are allowed to interact with the other dimensions, sweetie. Hildegard Wolmacher will learn the true meaning of evil, cold-hearted, rude, and malevolent!" Momma's expression grew dark and sinister, but then she smiled and laughed. "But then again there are those that say we design our own hell by the choices we make. Heidi Wolmacher, have yourself a wonderful life." Momma looked to me as she released Heidi. "Empress, may I please be dismissed?" "Not yet, momma." I said as I quickly stepped to her and wrapped my arms around her tightly. "Not without saying a proper goodbye, momma." I told her as I squeezed harder. "Thank you for your help with Hilde. Things may have ended differently without you being here." "I should say they would have, Alex. I don't think your world could handle the likes of Hildegard 'The Horrible' Wolmacher in her present character!" "So that was her plan?" I asked in amazement. "Even if it cost your life, my daughter! You handled yourself beautifully, child." Momma Scott beamed as she took a step back from me. "Now we must part and you must return to your dimension to continue your miraculous adventures, Empress. As always, we...will be watching." Ruth Scott winked. As she stepped back into the darkness, I felt tears rolling down my cheeks. I felt Heidi slowly take my hand and squeeze gently to let me know she was ready. I had an idea that I thought might heal some deep wounds. My private domain became a sidewalk on a nondescript city street. 1920's vintage cars, as well as horse-drawn wagons slowly clattered along the cobblestone street to our left. "I think I might recognize this place, Empress!" Heidi gasped. "The name is Alex, hun. Don't make me tell y'all again! Did Jacquelyn instruct you on how the suit operates?" I asked her with a little annoyance in my voice. "She did, Emp..." I glared at her. "She did, Alex." She replied. "This is Frankfurt-on-Main, 1922. Select some period clothing and have your Reilly suit change to them. Remain holding my hand until I tell you to let go though." I informed her just as two children ran right through us. Heidi gasped in horror at the sight! "They...they..." "They ran right through you- yes. At the moment we are what I call out of phase with this reality. We can see and hear what is going on here but cannot be seen nor heard, Miss Wolmacher. Now please change your clothes. If you select high heels, you should stand on your toes so the increase in height will not startle you." I answered as I stood on my own tiptoes and triggered my suit to change. In seconds we were dressed in period attire proper for 1922 Germany. "Frauline Wolmacher, since you speak the language, you may disable your translator. I have selected a dialect of Austrian." I said giving her a slight tug and we began walking down the sidewalk. Two more children ran through us, screaming and laughing as they played. Heidi stopped dead in her tracks. "Alex, I think those are my children!" "You're probably right, Heidi." I answered casually. "Why are we here?" "To mend a heart or two, Miss Wolmacher." I smiled. Heidi looked over at me in silence. Her eyes again began to tear up. "I was just about to rephase us, hun. It wouldn't look good for a pretty thing like y'all to be cryin' now, would it?" She shook her head no and wiped her eyes dry with her free hand. A delivery truck was parked on the side of the street just a few yards ahead of us and I began to look around to see if we would be observed as we rephased. Satisfied we were out of sight, I rephased us as we walked beside the truck. I didn't tell Heidi I had done it though. The same two children that had just passed us a moment before appeared again from between two buildings and ran right for us. They appeared to be having such a good time they failed to see us and promptly collided with us! Heidi was completely surprised and fell backwards to the brick walkway! "Sorry, frauline, we didn't see you! Did we hurt you?" The girl asked. "No, you just surprised us, little one. You'd best watch where you're going from now on though." I answered, as I helped a tongue-tied Heidi to her feet. "We will, frauline! Bye!" The girl replied. "Leibshen!" I called. "We are looking for Frau Wolmacher. Have you knowledge of her address?" "She is our mother! What do you want of her?" The girl asked. I was beginning to wonder if the younger boy could even talk. "I am Alexandra Steinert and this is my friend Heidi Wolmacher, we have arrived from D?sseldorf to see her." I told the young girl. "You are related to us, Miss Heidi?" The girl's eyes grew bigger. "I am a cousin of your father, Heinrich -heaven rest his weary soul." Heidi told her while looking to the sidewalk in sadness. "Is your mother at home, little one?" I asked as I showed concern for my travel companion. "Heidi, come now, it has been four years. You said it was getting easier." "No, she won't be home for another couple hours, Miss Alexandra. Would you like to wait and play with us?" The girl asked as I helped wipe Heidi's eyes dry. "That just might help my friend now..." I let the sentence hang waiting for her to introduce her and her brother. Quickly, I saw that I would get no such response! "That is very good, children! Your mother has taught you well to not give such information to strangers. Though, I bet I can guess your names! If I guess correctly, we'll stay and play games with you. If I don't we shall come visit your mother when she is home. Would you agree to that?" I asked the girl and looked for any sign her brother would comply. Heinrich's daughter thought a moment then nodded her head. I looked at her brother for his answer. He tugged on his sister's dress sleeve. They turned away from us and I heard some short discussion ensue. The quick huddle concluded with both children nodding to each other. "You would really stay and play with us?" She asked. I gave them my brightest smile. The girl looked to her brother once more. He nodded ever so slightly. "Okay. You guess our names and you have to play." "Deal!" I said continuing to smile. I put my right pointer finger to my lips and pretended to think and concentrate hard. "Hmmmm, " I started, "We know your father's name was Heinrich..." I paused. "We also know that your mother's name is Hilde or Hildegard." I paused again. "She hates that name, Miss Alexandra!" The girl warned sternly. "Oh, okay then, she hates Hilde, got it!" "Noooo! She hates the name Hildegard, Miss Alexandra!" She cried. "Oooh, I'm sorry! Okay, if I'm not mistaken, I think your name is..." I paused again as if to think hard once more. I looked to Heidi and winked with the eye the kids couldn't see. Heidi's eyes pleaded that this might not be a good idea- or maybe she wanted to leave. "Hmmmm, There are so many good names that would fit such good children as you." I praised and continued to smile. I pointed to the boy first. "I know! You are Hansel and you are Gretel!" I said pointing to the girl last. Her nose immediately wrinkled and she exhaled loudly. "That's not our names!" She cried; disappointed that they had lost two play partners. "May I try again?" I said looking a little disappointed with myself. Her face brightened instantly! "Ah huh." "Oh, okay, thank you." I now held my chin between my thumb and pointer finger and concentrated harder. "Okay, I think I have it this time. You are Francis and you are Beatrice. I pointed to each as I said the names. "No, that's not our names at all." She told me, even more disappointed than before. Even her brother dropped his head slightly in disappointment. I quickly wrinkled my nose and squinted one eye. "Oh, then you are Beatrice and you must be Francis." I said pointing to the boy first. I noticed Heidi smile slightly. "No, those aren't our names!" The boy said quietly, his head staring at the ground. "Oh, I'm sorry." I said. "I thought I could guess your names, but apparently my gift is not working today." I told them sadly. I turned to Heidi, who had remained deathly silent with the exception of the slight smile a minute ago. "Then I guess we will leave and come back later when Hilde is home. Come along, Heidi, I couldn't guess Maria and Joseph's names, so I guess we can't stay and play." I said sadly. We took a few steps in the direction we had come. A hand tugged a few times at my dress. "Miss Steinert, you know our names." Joseph said in a louder voice. "You have to stay and play with us now!" We turned around to see him looking up at us with a huge grin on his face. His sister stood a few feet back, her eyes wide in astonishment! Heidi looked at me with the same pleading look. I winked at her and smiled. "You are absolutely correct, Joseph Freidrich Wolmacher, I did say that we would stay and play!" A smile filled his face. I glanced back at Maria. "Before you ask, hun, I have a gift that allows me to know what you are thinking before you ask it!" Maria gasped and quickly covered her mouth with both hands in surprise! Her eyes couldn't get any wider! "Heidi, we promised these two that we would play, so I see no alternative but to stay and spend time with them. Lead on children." I told the two. They happily led us to the apartment building they lived in. We spent two hours playing games I had never known existed. We also played dolls with Maria while Joseph stared out the second floor apartment window in boredom. I had never played with dolls before. It wasn't as bad as I had thought it would be. 1657 hours, Hilde Wolmacher Residence, Frankfurt, Germany, June 11th, 1922 "You're funny, Alex! How could you not have played with dollies when you were a little girl?" Maria asked in absolute confusion. "I guess I never had the chance to be a little girl, Maria." Heidi suddenly stared at me, alarmed. "She's just kidding, Maria. Don't let Alex tease you so easily." Heidi advised her former daughter. The young girl stared at my companion strangely. "Maria, Joseph, I'm home!" A familiar voice called. "Momma!" They both screamed and ran for the door. "So what did you do today, you two?" The voice asked. "One of Papa's cousins came to talk to you, Momma! She and her friend were playing dollies with me!" Maria confessed innocently. "How many times have I told you about strangers, young lady?" Hilde scolded! "But Alex guessed my name, Momma! She and Heidi have been waiting to talk to you since they arrived!" "Is that so, Joseph?" "Yes, Momma! They just appeared beside the delivery truck down the way. And we ran into them when we were playing tag! Maria knocked over Heidi, but she apologized and then Alexandra guessed our names, though I think she already knew them because it sounded like she was already playing with us, so we invited them in and started playing, but I got bored of playing Maria's games and so I just started looking out the window waiting for you, momma." I was amazed that so much had come out of the boy's mouth at one time! I was also curious as to what he said about us 'appearing'. Heidi started to look frightened. "What do you hear, Miss Wolmacher?" I asked quietly so the people in the next room wouldn't hear us. "She thinks we are thieves here to steal from her, Alex." "A logical assumption given she has spent the last five years alone with just the children, Heidi." "She is debating calling the Burgermeister, Empress." She said reaching for my hand. "We should not have come here." "Nonsense, Heidi. We are two women here to see your cousin by marriage. We mean her no harm. "Momma, come and meet Alex! She's fun to play with!" "I thought you said Alex and Heidi, Maria?" "Heidi reminds me of you, momma." Joseph interrupted in a sour tone. "Is that so? Well, introduce me to them then." Hilde said with concern. The three entered the room to find Heidi and I sitting on the floor with our legs crossed. "Frau Wolmacher." I said as I tried to get up off the floor. I struggled a bit longer then apologized. "I would get up, but my legs seem to have fallen asleep. Alexandra Steinert." I instead introduced myself and offered up my hand to her. My legs weren't really numb, but it was a way to show that I was no threat. "Hilde, it is so nice to see you again." Heidi said as she successfully struggled to her feet. "And you would be Heidi?" The woman asked of her. "Sorry, I'm Heidi...Heidi Wolmacher. I'm a relative of Heinrich's." Her face immediately became sad and her gaze dropped to the floor. "I don't remember you...Heidi." Hilde squinted at her, obviously sizing her up. "I think we only met once. I was just a girl when we visited from D?sseldorf. You haven't changed though, Miss Hilde." She told her former wife. Heidi was holding it together pretty well so far. Her expression easily passed as pensive and awkward. "And you are related how, Alexandra?" "I'm not, Frau Wolmacher, I'm just a friend of Heidi's. We sometimes travel together." I admitted. "I live in D?sseldorf myself, Frau.