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xpouii · 5 years

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JSE Day 8: Connected

Day 8 of the JSE artists prompts 2019 by @septic-bella

**All of the previous entries are available on AO3 under the title “Mayhem” with my same username.**

Henrik had blood up to his elbows when the paramedics finally arrived; his voice was deceptively calm as he updated them on Jameson’s condition, and the cause of the injury. Jackie had already carried Marvin into the lab to avoid causing a fuss. The magician had been fairly out of it, but he was responsive enough that Henrik was comfortable waiting to treat him. Jameson had gone out long before the medics came for him, and he still wasn’t completely stable. “Edward Iplier is waiting in the trauma bay; he’ll be standing in as primary until I arrive.”

Henrik squeezed Jameson’s hand one last time as he was loaded onto the stretcher, then he hurried to the lab where the others waited. He walked directly to the sink, washing away Jameson’s blood and peeling off his soiled cardigan. He grabbed a clean scrub top from the nearby locker and pulled it on. All of the ruckus had finally brought Chase out of his half-dead sleep and he was watching from the cot, afraid to get close enough for a good look at Marvin’s skin. Henrik took a calming breath as he gloved up, “Jameson is in the ambulance. Dr. Iplier is going to take care of him. Let’s take a look at-“ Henrik fell silent, startled at the state of Marvin, obscenities and rambling words scarred into his arms and feet, and likely extending well underneath his clothing. “Mein Gott. What happened?”

“He was in his room,” Jackie said. “It was like his magic was burning him. I’ve never seen anything like it.”

“I let down… a barrier,” Marvin muttered. “That bastard baited me.”

Henrik started his work, cutting away Marvin’s shirt and pants; the fabric fell away, revealing a torso and legs as intricately destroyed as Marvin’s arms. Jackie took Marvin’s hand gently, “It’s ok. It’s n-not that bad.”

Marvin laughed softly, “Yeah I bet I look great. At least he left my face.”

“He needs your face,” Henrik said, gathering supplies from drawers as he prepared to clean the wounds. “These burns look to be second degree, but…”

“But?” Jackie asked, leaning in.

Henrik touched the worst looking wound on Marvin’s abdomen with gloved fingertips. Marvin didn’t flinch, or even indicate that he’d felt any contact at all. “What’s the but, Schneep?”

“They’re behaving more like third degree burns,” Henrik sighed. “Which means there could be underlying damage to nerves.”

Henrik prepared a gauze pad with a solution of iodine and saline to clean the burns. As soon as he touched the gauze to the first wound, Marvin arched up off of the table with a strangled cry of pain and the wound flared with green light. Marvin reached to grab for Henrik’s wrist but Jackie held him gently, “It’s ok Marv!”

“Please stop! Fucking please, Henrik! Stop!”

Henrik persisted, but each swipe of the gauze just caused more green light, and within seconds Marvin was babbling and sobbing incoherently. Henrik tossed the gauze down on the table, “I’m only making it worse. I’m not exactly an expert treating magical wounds.”

Silence stretched out as the lights faded and Marvin’s crying quieted to sniffles and sighs, “It’s m-my wards. They’re protecting it. I have to bring them down.”

“You’re not going back in that room,” Jackie said firmly. “Not when you’re this weak.”

“I’ll run some fluids,” Henrik said. “I’ll have to put the IV through your internal jugular vein to avoid the markings. Let’s hope it works.”

Jackie’s eyebrows furrowed in frustration, but he kept quiet. Henrik didn’t make medical decisions about them lightly, and he was doing his best. Marvin nodded, “Sounds like a plan.”

“When I get back I’ll place a Quinton catheter,” Henrik said, gathering his supplies and returning to the exam table. “And once you’ve sorted out those wards, we’ll need to start debridement.”

Marvin sighed, “Oh goodie.”

Henrik placed the IV with little difficulty, and no flaring of magical pain on Marvin’s part. He hung antibiotics and saline, checking that everything was running smoothly.

Chase finally shuffled over, looking green, “Schneep, we better go.” He took Marvin’s hand and squeezed, giving him a sad smile.

Henrik nodded, “As soon as Jameson is stabilized, I’ll-“

“I’ll be fine,” Marvin said. “As long as nobody tries to fix me. Just go help him, ok? I was trying to spy on him. I suspected him of—I thought he was a p-“

“Shh,” Jackie soothed, gently combing Marvin’s hair out of his face with his fingers. “You only did what you thought was right. Anti knew what he was doing.”

“Find him somewhere comfortable,” Henrik said. “Don’t leave him on this table for long.”

“He can stay in my bed,” Jackie said. “Anything I should look for?”

“If Anti comes back, call,” Henrik said. “And don’t let Marvin try any magic until morning. If I’m not back by then, call too.”

Jackie nodded, “Sure thing, I’ll call.”

“Good luck,” Chase said, squeezing Marvin’s hand again.

“You too,” Marvin said as Chase moved away, and he watched them go with a sigh, trying to hide how scared he was.

Jameson was in surgery when they arrived, and Henrik left Chase in Jack’s room to go and scrub in. Chase curled up in the chair beside Jack’s bed and fell asleep to the rhythmic beeping of monitors in the dark room. He stirred when Henrik and Edward stopped outside of the open door, opening one eye as he listened to their soft voices.

“He’s lucky to be alive. What the hell happened?”

“Anti,” Henrik said.

“Shit,” Edward said. “Sorry. How are the others handling it?”

Henrik was quiet for a moment, “We’re doing what we have to. Danke noch einmal. I owe you.”

Edward smiled, “Maybe you should consider officially coming off sabbatical. It was good to work with you again.”

“Once this is all dealt with,” Henrik said as the other man turned to leave. “Edward?”

He turned around, hands in the pockets of his coat, “Henrik.”

“Would you keep Jameson under your care, until he is released? He needs a watchful eye, and I’m stretched thin.”

Edward nodded, “You got it.” Then he swept down the hallway, a nurse jogging to join him with a stack of charts.

Henrik stepped into the room then, closing the door and smiling when he saw Chase was awake. Chase sat up straighter, “How is he?”

“He’ll be fine,” Henrik said. “His trachea has been repaired, and no arteries were damaged. It could have been much worse. If Anti hadn’t been in a hurry-“

“Yeah,” Chase said. “So how long does he have to be here?”

“It depends,” Henrik said. “He’s breathing just fine, but for now his jaw is sutured to his chest to keep his trachea from splitting again. If things heal quickly enough, he’ll be home and back to normal before you know it, but we mustn’t rush these things.”

Chase glanced over his shoulder at Jack, “Yeah, I know all about that.”

Henrik frowned then, not happy about what he needed to say, “Chase, about Jack.”

“What?”

“The seizures are coinciding with Anti’s attacks.”

“Wait,” Chase said. “So when he has a seizure it’s… Anti coming after us?” “The timeline fits,” Henrik said. “He had his most violent episode tonight before we arrived. Anti is either exploiting Jack for the energy to come for us, or Jack is fighting him to protect us. If the seizures continue to worsen, they could cause severe brain damage, even death. Either way, this coma will end by Jack’s hand, not ours. There’s a good possibility he’s already suffering some neuron loss by now.”

“So what do we do?” Chase asked, “What the hell do we do?”

“We end this,” Henrik said. “Once and for all. I have some ideas, but I need time. How are you feel-“

“Don’t ask that, Schneep,” Chase said, sinking back down into the chair and pulling his knees to his chest.

Henrik moved in front of Chase, “Chase.”

“Fuck,” Chase muttered. “I don’t know. My hands won’t stop shaking. Earlier I forgot I was on the way to the bathroom and that’s why I ended up puking in the sink—sorry about that, again. I can’t stop sweating and I just want a drink so goddamn bad I would probably punch you if you had alcohol on you right now. None of this matters because Jameson almost got fucking murdered, and Marvin looks like one of those really fucked up zombies that survive explosions and shit. You remember those ones on that tv show? They were melted to the asphalt and-“

“I remember,” Henrik said. “Chase I kept you with me because I expect you to report your symptoms. You’re in danger too, you know.”

“When am I not?” Chase said.

“I want to admit you here, just for a night or two, to be safe.”

“Schneep I’m not going off to some room all by myself,” Chase said.

Henrik smiled, “You can stay here, with Jack. Keep an eye on him while I go and help Marvin in the morning. Alright? Anti’s already physically manifested once. If he does it here, with nobody to defend Jack, it could be over before we even get a chance.”

Chase sighed; Henrik was humoring him again, but he nodded, “Sure. I’ll watch Jack.”

#henrik von schneeplestein #chase brody #jackieboy man #dr iplier #marvin the magnificent #jameson jackson #fanfiction #JSE artist prompt #Mayhem 2019 #Egopocalypse 2019

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kangaroo-r00 · 5 years

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“I just don’t want to be alone.” with Marv and Henrik, if you’d like?

“Mein Gott, too many jewels,” Schneep muttered under his breath as he carefully removed every piece of shiny jewelry Marvin had on his hands. Rings and bracelets were set on a metal tray to the doctor’s side. (Tragically, Marvin lost his last hair tie to the fire.)

Marvin stared blankly at the angry, blistered red skin on his hands and lower arms. They hurt even when he wasn’t moving them. Looks like he’d have new scars to join the older ones now.

“You won’t be having many feelings left in your arms if it keep up like this,” he remarked grimly. He unscrewed a jar of something and dipped his gloved fingers into it, scooping out some kind of cream. “It might hurt a bit,” was all the warning he gave.

The drastic change from pulsing pain to cooling relief shocked a gasp out of him but otherwise he stayed quiet. He scrunched his face up as Schneep slathered on the ointment. Once the bandages were wrapped, the doctor moved to leave, and Marvin panicked.

“Wait, don’t leave me!” Wow, that sounded needy—he’d never live it down.

Schneep paused, staring at the magician like he’d grown a second head. (That actually might’ve been preferable.) “Is just a short trip to the sink.” And it was… just on the other side of the room.

Next words needed to be chosen carefully to avoid being clingy. “Then you’ll stay?” He inwardly cringed. That really wasn’t any better.

The other remained silent for a minute, crushing Marvin’s feeble hope. Seeing the defeated look on his maskless face probably swayed him.

“Yes?” His brows furrowed in confusion. “A doctor mustn’t leave their patient unattended. Why?”

“Just… making sure. Don’t want to be alone.” For someone who always carried himself so high, he must’ve looked so small in that moment. Thick awkwardness— nearly palpable—hung in the air.

“Well, it’d be bad if you died of dehydration, yes?” Schneep teased, peeling off his gloves and tossing them into the waste bin.

Marvin grinned. “Yeah, probably.”

And just like that, everything heavy is gone.

#ask #victory-cookies #marvin the magnificent #henrik von schneeplestein #whump #haha theyre working on it #theyre both pretty emotionally constipated #theyre trying tho

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katsbooks · 5 years

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Down With The Fallen - Chapter Four

The Captain x Self-Insert

After being captured with several other women, Kat is given to the Captain of a group called Millennium.

The first, and perhaps only, time the Captain ever got angry with Kat was the first time she wandered around the base by herself. She stayed rather close to the conference room the Captain was in, not wanting to get lost, but the meeting was taking a rather long time and she was starting to grow restless. It was close to two weeks after the incident with Sheryl, and Hans had been quite careful in making sure she didn’t run into anymore of the women.

She sadly had heard of the death of two of them, both from exhaustion and starvation, and while the Major had not been overly amused by this, he only gave a warning to better care for the women or the officers would not be rewarded so generously anymore.

Kat spent most of her days anymore either following the Captain around, reading in the room, or “entertaining” the Captain. Something that was becoming more enjoyable than she would really wanted to admit.

She paused in her wanderings outside a room with large glass windows, peering in curiously. It looked like an armory of some sort, some rather impressive artillery lining the walls. Even Kat could appreciate a well-crafted weapon. She stood there admiring through the window for several minutes, unaware of the approaching group.

Kat realized she wasn’t alone right around the time the officers noticed her standing there. The grins on their faces sent red flags up right away and she turned to quickly make her way back to the meeting room.

“Vhy ze rush, fraulein? Don’t go, ve haven’t made friends yet!” one of them laughed. Another moved ahead of her quickly, cutting her off. Kat eyed them all nervously. “Hey, I zink I know zis one. She vas one of ze women ze Major brought in.”

“No vay, she’s too dressed,” another scoffed.

“So who’s your master, fraulein?” the one behind her jeered, far too close for comfort. Kat half wanted to tell them to fuck off, half wanted to run away in terror. She swallowed thickly, trying to speak past the lump in her throat. “Awe, look at her! She’s shaking like a leaf!”

“Are you cold, fraulein? Ve could warm you up nicely,” a younger officer cooed to her, reaching out to stroke her face. Kat jerked away, nearly stumbling back into the officer behind her.

“Don’t touch me!”

The men laughed, flashing fangs and dark sneers.

“Come now, fraulein, ve’re trying to help you. You still haven’t told us who your master is.”

“T-The Captain,” she managed to squeak out. They all paused for a moment, exchanging looks, before eyeing her rather suspiciously.

“Come now fraulein, no lying. Zat would not be gut, ja?”

“I-I’m not lying!”

“If you are ze Captain’s pet, vhy are you out here, hm? I’m starting to zink you’re trying to escape,” the officer behind her wasn’t smiling anymore. “No matter, ve know how to deal with those who try to escape, ja boys?”

“Ja,” came the collective agreement, their red eyes leering down at her menacingly. Kat had a feeling shit just got real; she really needed to get out of there, now.

Kat tried to bolt around the officer blocking her path, managing to squeeze by him, but not managing to go far before rough hands grabbed her and shoved her to the floor. The laughter and rough German taunts as her clothing was torn at nearly made her scream. She fought to get away, wanting to vomit when they started touching her, grabbing her roughly.

“Let me go! I’m not trying to escape, please! I was telling the truth!” Kat begged, trying desperately to keep her clothing on and get away from the group at the same time.

“Don’t be stupid, vhy vould ze Captain pick a woman like you as his pet?” one of them laughed, managing to shove his hand down her pants, making her shriek a little. “Mein Gott, zis one doesn’t wear underwear! How naughty.”

“Stop it!”

There was a sudden shock of energy that made them all freeze. There was an overwhelming sense of anger filling the hall and the officers realized whom was causing it.

“Ah! Captain!”

They all immediately stood to attention, giving Kat a chance to crawl away from them, stopping not even a foot away when she ran into a pair of booted feet. She looked up slowly, meeting the deep red gaze of the Captain. He looked at her coldly, eyes narrowed in anger and she drew back.

One of the officers was speaking in rapid German, finally pulling the werewolf’s glare up. The lad stuttered a little, obviously feeling a little fear.

A gunshot rang out suddenly, making Kat jump at the sharp ring. The officer fell to the ground, an empty space where his head had once been. Kat recoiled in shock and alarm, staring in horror at the twitching body. Hans put away his gun, before grabbing Kat’s arm, pulling her up with little effort. After one last glare shot at the stunned and frightened group of officers, the Captain dragged Kat away, down the halls to his room.

Kat could feel his anger, knowing some, if not most of it, was directed at her. Granted, she hadn’t done anything wrong and the Major had given her permission to wander the base within reason, but she also knew that it hadn’t been a wise idea to be that far away from the meeting room. She stumbled a little bit, almost unable to keep up with his pace. Hans merely pulled her back up and kept walking with her.

Reaching the room, he opened the door and shoved her in, making her trip over her feet and fall to the ground. He stepped in behind her, shutting and locking the door as she turned onto her backside, looking up at him warily.

The sudden, sharp pain that hit her mind made her cry out and clutch her head. The image of a snarling, raging white wolf seared into her brain, the normally gentle nudge now rough and angry. The overwhelming sense of possessiveness was almost too much and Kat felt like her head was going to explode. It was almost impossible for her to tell what was going on outside her body, but it all snapped back into reality when her pants were suddenly ripped off her and she was flipped over onto her belly.

Kat nearly screamed when she was entered roughly, clawing at the floor to try and pull away. This resulted in an angry snarl and an arm wrapping around her hips to pull them tighter against his. There was no preparation, no gentle coaxing. This was angry and dominating, a show of aggressive power.

This was something beyond her understanding, it once again seemed. The constant growl of ‘mine’ in her head added to the feeling of being overpowered. She knew it, instinctually if she had to go by something.

A sob tore from her throat as she forced herself to become submissive, the pain almost too much. It lasted only a moment longer, before the Captain growled deeply and sank his fangs once again into her neck, in the same spot where he had marked her before. Kat howled at the sharp, stabbing pain that sent shocks through her body.

Then it was over.

He kept her pressed down on her belly, against the ground, still inside her, still biting her. But the anger was dissipating now, the pressure on her mind releasing and leaving a regretful and remorseful sensation instead. He pulled his fangs from her neck, licking the aching wound closed.

Hans pressed his face into her neck, the arm around her hips loosening its grip, his hand rubbing against her skin. He rumbled softly, trying to calm the crying girl down. He knew that she had no idea about werewolf culture, knew she had no clue why he acted like that. It had just been instinct, complete and total control of needing to get rid of those fucking scents from her body. He hadn’t meant to scare her or hurt her, and he was honestly a little impressed that she somehow knew to submit.

He reached out mentally again, stroking against her mind soothingly. Her sobbing had quieted to silent tears and she was starting to relax underneath him. He could tell she was confused and still a little frightened, and she was aching from the rough treatment.

Kat shifted a little underneath him, making him grunt and press down against her. She felt him twitch inside her and she stilled again, turning her head to look at him warily over her shoulder, tear streaks on her cheeks. He looked considerably calmer, and his eyes were apologetic as they met hers. He leaned forward and nuzzled against her cheek, his lips brushing against her skin lightly.

Hans sighed softly, his breath blowing over her cheek and neck as he turned his face into her hair. Kat shivered a little, his hot breath tickling the sensitive skin of her neck. He rumbled softly, his chest vibrating against her back. His hand slid along her hip and side, around to her stomach, lightly tracing designs against it.

“….Hans…” she murmured his name, watching him as she felt him slowly harden again inside her. He gave a low hum and his hand slid down between her thighs, making her suck in a breath through her teeth. Her body responded to his touch, warming and clenching, making her toes curl.

He worked only his fingers against her, ignoring his thick length still nestled inside her until she was breathing hard and starting to press back into him. Then he moved his hand to rest on the floor and started to slowly move inside her.

Kat made a low noise of pleasure, pressing her hips back into his. Hans growled softly against her neck, moving his hand back over her stomach, sliding up underneath her shirt and pushing her bra over her breasts, cupping their weight in his hand. Faster he moved, pushing as deep into her as he could, until she was gasping and contracting around him, pulling him over the edge a second time that night.

After taking a moment to catch his breath, he pulled from her still twitching sheathe, gathering the girl into his arms and carrying her to the bed. He peeled off the rest of their clothing so they were both comfortable, then climbed in with her, curling around her a little.

As she was drifting off, Kat felt the familiar nudge at her mind again, only this time something interesting happened. It was like there was a soft voice, murmuring an apology to her. Too tired to address it, she merely muttered that she wanted an explanation later before falling asleep, unaware of the Captain’s surprised expression.

Previous: https://katsbooks.tumblr.com/post/181973752507/down-with-the-fallen-chapter-three

Next: https://katsbooks.tumblr.com/post/182103551207/down-with-fallen-chapter-five

#hellsing #self insert #the captain #captain hans #hellsing captain #fanfiction #fanfic #werewolf

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merlinmerlot · 6 years

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A prediction fic of next EP

Wanted to do a sort of prediction fanfic for next episode and all their reactions. Not finished, but wanted to show off the stuff I got done cause I was proud of it. Might get more done, might not. Also, not peer edited, so prob a lot of mistakes.

Oh, and I take writing requests so please hmu cause I need practice!

- - -

The first alarm should have been the feeling of emptiness.

Maybe it's because he was used to being empty, having the word thrust upon him like a nightmare of a bad forgotten memory. Either way, he should have known. Yasha... She was hard to miss, she said it herself.

However, that wasn't the case.

Instead, his first alarm was Caleb, shaking him awake with a frantic wide eyed fear on his face.

"Get up, get up! Aufstehen, get up!" Molly was curled up on his side, his nails clenched into the tent fabric below him as the grounded feeling left him for a sense of dread. Startled awake, he quickly got up, instinctively reaching for the sword thrown to the side and stumbling out into the open.

Beau and Nott were already awake, both looking tired and irritated. Beau was quickly tying her hair into a haphazard bun, eyes creased with morning shadows, while Nott continued to check her pockets over and over again, pupils dilated into mere lines in the yellows of her eyes.

"What's happening?" Molly asked Caleb, walking to stand in front of him. The man eyed him before going back to staring at the ground.

Molly inspected Caleb further, and dear god, something had worked him up more than usual. The poor man kept running a hand through his dirtied hair, blue eyes searching the ground for something, and his movement was erratic, body swaying back and forth like a ticking clock. It was almost Jester like, though Jester's chaotic gestures and emotes were more endearing than worrying.

Jester...

"Where's..." Molly stopped for a moment, not really comprehending the words escaping his mouth. "Caleb, where's Yasha, a-and Jester, Fjord, did you wake them, is something wrong?" His sentences hitched in his throat, he could never stop messing up his words, especially now, mornings never sat right with him. Caleb's eyes flickered toward Molly, his brow creased in worry.

"ich weiß es nicht, I don't know, They weren't in their tent and..." Caleb trailed off, German finding its way into his words without him knowing.

"We all just woke up." Beau leaned on her staff, eyes half lidded. "We don't know anything."

"Caleb said nothing had triggered his alarm spell." Nott carefully added, eyes darting toward her friend. "So they have had to..."

"Dammit! I swear to god, if Yasha went away to wherever the fuck she always goes off to and took Jester and Fjor-"

"Beau! Let's be reasonable here." Molly gave as much of a stern look toward Beau as he could give, who took it with another steely eyed stare of her own. "I'm sure Yasha didn't run off again with the others. She likes to do things... Alone, as I'm sure you know."

"Which means something worse happened." Caleb was hunching into himself, arms wrapped around one another as he continued to eye the ground. "But I should have been told by my spell that something dangerous had entered. They would have had to be outside its radius."

Beau rubbed at her eyes. "Maybe they were out on like a walk? I know Yasha likes to go out sometimes, she might have brought Fjord along... though why the fuck Jester would have joined is beyond me."

"Well that just means we will have to look for clues!" Nott grinned despite herself, though it quickly dissipated. "It isn't quite the same as with Jester though..."

"Alright, well, we better get joining. Beau, you can search over there-" Molly pointed in front on him, toward the road. "Nott, go look through their tents again, maybe they left something behind. Caleb and I can search in the back over here." He turned on his heel, and sauntered over to the never ending field of grass.

His knees felt miserable after crouching in the stickly yellow stalks of the field, and he stood up to give them a bit of a break. Examining the area over to his left, he watched as Caleb flipped through his worn spellbook, hands hastily peeling away the pages.

"Hey, Caleb, are you okay?" Molly broke the silence, stepping forward. Caleb looked up, eyebrows raised.

"Ja, I am good, Mollymauk. Are you?" Caleb continued to busy himself with the book, nails tip tapping rhythmically on the pages.

"Oh, yes, I am... Alright." Molly was the first one to break eye contact this time, and he fiddled with the threads on his coat. "I think."

"I hope they are alright." Caleb didn't bother explaining which they he meant, and sat himself in the grass. Molly cleared his throat uncomfortably before he went back to his search as well.

"Hey Caleb, Molly, I found something, you need to check this out! holy shit..." Beau's loud and rather jarring voice jumped through the silence, quickly snapping the two to attention. Molly shared an awkward look with Caleb before running over to the other side of the field.

Beau was standing in a small clearing, grass trampled in a way only done by too many feet. There was dirt and rocks scattered everywhere... And there was blood, splattered across the plants and the ground and leaving a trail that made its way toward the road.

Nott poked her head out of the grass, wading through it as she said, "It continues onto the road, a-and then it just stops, I can't see anymore..."

Beau crouched herself near some of the trampled grass, hands brushing over the greenery- Well, yellowery. "Something was... Dragged through here. It wouldn't be like this if someone was just walking through it, it would have returned to being straight again, or somethin', you know?" Beau stood back up again, expression modest and serious. "What the fuck..."

"Oh mein gott..." Caleb's voice was muffled by the hand on his mouth, eyes wide. He muttered quietly, "This is all my fault, I should have been paying more attention on my watch, I could have seen them coming..."

"Caleb, c'mon, get it together we still don't know what happened yet!" Molly separated his brow with his fingers, kneading the creases in his forehead as he said, "Beau, do you think..."

"Kidnapped." Beau wiped her bandaged hand against her forehead, still against the breathless wind. "I've heard about this sort of stuff before. People can pay a lot for... For people like us, for people like them."

"S-so, they're not dead?" Nott shifted her cloak, clasping her hands together.

"No, they're not dead. No, no they can't be dead, that's.." Beau let out a string of curses and slammed her staff against the ground with a loud crack. "Fuck! Fuck, fuck, fuck! What the hell are we supposed to do?!"

#criticalrole #critical role #critical role fanfic #Widomauk #if you squint theres like one moment #uugggh i love these characters i wish i could write them better #writing #cr #still cant tag

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jeff3 · 7 years

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“Maria, how would you like to come work for me?” Dr. Brüning sat on a corner of his office desk while Maria nervously stood in the doorway. “M-me?” “Yes. Dr. Elazar and I both agree that you’re greatly improved and need more, shall we say, stable social interactions. You could work as a maid in my household where I could keep an eye on you and you’d learn gainful employment for the future.” “You would do that for me?” “From time to time I’ve had rehabilitated patients work for me, I find it helps ease them back into society, makes them comfortable around people again.” When she made no reply, he frowned. “Don’t you want to come work for me? You’re not afraid of a little work are you?” “No, herr doktor. Please, what kind of work would I be doing?” “You would be working in the kitchen and helping to take care of my wife, to be a companion to her. She was a teacher once, you know.” “A teacher.” “Yes, she taught our children before they’d gone off to school and they’ve both done quite well.” “I didn’t know you had children.” “Two, Wilfrid and Wulfia. My son is an author and has written two books, like Frau Brüning, he’s also a teacher. My daughter is going to university, this is her second year, but I think she’s developed an eye for the fashion industry and I’m afraid she’ll quit for the lure of money and glamor.”

A few days later Maria was escorted by the doctor to his home. She stared wide eyed and frightened on the back doorstep. “Go on in Maria, mind your feet, the floor’s just been washed.” Entering the kitchen they were greeted by a middle-aged heavy set woman and a willowy brunette, both dressed in matching grey uniforms with starched white aprons and caps. The older woman was kneading dough on a floured table, in the far corner a middle-aged man was sitting on a stool peeling potatoes and dropping them into a pail of water. “Ah, Frau Lippert. Maria, I’d like you to meet Frau Lippert and Fraulein Shirer, ladies, Maria Ankömling.” The women smiled and touched hands “Over here we have Frau Lippert’s husband Albert.” “Herr Lippert,” she said softly. He grunted a reply, touched the brim of his cap and went back to peeling. “Fraulein Shirer, would you take her downstairs, she can use the spare room. Get her a proper uniform and when she’s ready we’ll take her to meet Frau Brüning.” “Ja herr doktor.” After the others had left Albert snorted; “Hmph, hasn’t worked a day in her life. She’ll not last a month.” His wife shrugged. “So right, she’s too fragile and high strung. I wish he’d stop bringing the crazy ones in, they make me nervous, you never know what they’ll do.” Albert observed from his potato bucket; “Don’t worry leibshein, she won’t take your place around here. How many loonies have we seen come and go. Once she gets a taste of Frau Brüning, she’ll turn tail and run.”

Half an hour later Dr. Brüning and the trio of ladies met before Frau Brüning’s door. Frau Lippert carried a tray with a covered dish, a small pot of tea and a saucer of pills. Dr, Brüning knocked, and at her bidding they entered. The room had a sick-bed smell to it, but there was a warm fire in the fireplace and the french provincial furniture added a feminine touch. The walls were decorated with the portraits of men and women, many of who bore a familial resemblance to the brunette who was resting on a divan. Beside the divan stood a record player with a massive horn on a mahogany stand. The woman was in the process of pacing the unwieldy needle on a thick black disc. “Some music my dear?” Dr. Brüning bent to kiss her forehead. “Ja Franz, I thought I’d listen to some Mozart, it brightens my day.” She pulled her heavy robe a bit tighter after putting the phonograph needle aside. “He is your favorite,” replied her husband and stooped to adjust the folded quilt which had slipped off her legs. “Hmph! A regular committee, the lot of you. Come to see the dowager cow without calf?” “Liebling.” Franz replied, ignoring the sarcastic self pity, “This is Maria Ankömling, she’ll be working here.” He pulled the shy girl into view. “I see…and what, exactly, is she going to be doing?” “Spending time with you. She’s a wonderful reader and will gladly read to you.” “Bah! I do my own reading, for heaven’s sake Franz, I’ve miscarried not gone blind!” Crestfallen, he bowed his head and nodded. “I suppose she’s another one of your patients.” “Yes, she’s cured and we’re…” “…helping her rejoin society, yes, I know the catechism all too well.” Frau Lippert and Fraulein Shirer shared a secret smile. His head drooped lower. Frau Lippert slipped around him and placed the tray on Frau Brüning’s lap. “I - What-are-you-doing?!” the woman shrieked at Frau Lippert. Nonplussed she uncovered the dish and flapped a napkin. “Its your dinner Frau Brüning, you should be hungry by now.” “It smells vile!” The woman covered her nose and mouth with both hands. “Ugh! Sauerbraten. Disgusting, get it out of here! Take it away, it’s making me ill!” “But Frau Brüning, its your favorite.” “Get-it-away-from-me!” she gagged. Maria darted between the doctor and the maid, snatched the tray up and placed it in the hallway, closing the door as she reentered. Maria’s voice was soothing. “Maybe you would like some porridge or some oatmeal instead? When I didn’t feel well it sometimes helped me.” “Porr…hmm. Yes. Yes, I would like some porridge with honey and a potato and a small glass of beer.”

The maids returned to the kitchen. “Whatever made you speak up like that?” “I don't know Frau Lippert. She didn’t want anything rich so I thought of the plainest thing I could, plus its satisfying if there’s enough of it.” “Well, it’s your suggestion, so you can make it.” The girl blushed and hung her head, mumbling something. “I’m sorry, what was that you said Fraulein Ankömling?” “I…I don’t…” “Let me guess, you don’t know how to cook.” “No ma’am, I was never taught.” “Clean house?” “No. I can wash dishes.” “Oh mein Gott, we’ll have to work hard on you if you’re to stay in this house. Alright then, we’ll start now. I’ll tell you how to make porridge, but you’ll do the cooking.” “Yes Frau Lippert.”

It wasn’t long before Maria became a fixture in the kitchen. Between Frau Lippert and Fraulein Shirer, the cleaning maid (Who now insisted Maria call her Irma), they had Maria up to speed by spring. Though she cleaned well and cooked well, both the older women watched her with a critical eye, just so she still knew her place. When she wasn’t in the kitchen, or cleaning, she spent time with Frau Brüning. Not an easy task; when she read to her, she corrected her speech and criticized her reading skills, when she tried to engage her in conversation, she was rebuffed and reminded she was only a maid, “And a temporary one at that.” Frau Brüning would often conclude, but Maria persisted. The weeks passed and Frau Brüning grew better. Maria helped her to walk and to dress and continued to read to her from the woman’s vast library. One afternoon they sat beside the open window to catch the early summer breezes. Maria read from a German translation of Greek tragedies until Frau Brüning stopped her. “I am amazed, I must say.” “By what herrin?” “How much you’ve improved, the way you speak, your diction, your carriage, you don’t slump over a book when you read, you sit upright and hold it just so. Your voice comes out smooth and soothing as a cool stream. Do yo like this book Maria?” “Ja herrin, the stories are interesting, but sad. Its strange, I can see how each person’s life leads to triumph as well as tragedy by their actions.” “Yes, the Greeks believed, and perhaps rightly so, that we carry the seeds of our downfalls within our characters and that in the end we get what we deserve.”

It was warm on Saturday, the sun shone through the open windows while Maria moved about the parlor waving her feather duster and humming to herself. Dr. Brüning looked up from his paper in surprise. “I didn’t know you liked Strauss Maria.” “Strauss who sir? I don’t think I know anyone by that name.” “How do you know that song you were humming?” “It was playing on the radio in the kitchen and I remember it from the sanitarium.” “You must have liked it to remember it so well.” “I do, there’s another song I like, it goes like this…” She hummed a more complex tune that leaped and gamboled in a merry way. “Ah, herr Mozart.” “Mozart, I think I’ve heard the name.” “Well, this is serious.” He folded his paper neatly and placed it on the side table. “Leave your duster on the mantle and come with me.” “But the dusting…” “Its alright, come now.” They marched upstairs to Frau Brüning’s room. “Klara, leibshein.” He called, tapping on the door as he entered. “Don’t stand out in the hall like a foolish schoolboy, come in.” The pair entered. “And to what do I owe this little parade?” “Education.” Franz said smiling and walked to the victrola “What?” “Young Maria knows a touch of Strauss, a pinch of Mozart and perhaps a dash of Haydn. I thought it was time to fully encounter them.” Frau Brüning slid out of bed, Maria helped her into a dressing gown, and she sat on the divan beside her husband. Opening a wooden case beneath the victrola Frau Brüning said; “Franz, come crank tis for me, I’ll choose some records.” Within moments the trio were seated, lightly smiling as the room filled with symphonic strains. In the kitchen below, Frau Lippert was rinsing a chicken carcass in the sink. Irma came through the door, a frown on her face. “What’s the matter with you?” The younger woman set down her dust cloth. “Dr. Brüning made Maria stop cleaning so he could take her upstairs and listen to music.” “So that’s what that’s about.” “Well, now I’ve got the rest of the house to do by myself while she sits on her perfect behind and does nothing!” “Some people have all the luck Irma, but don’t worry, she can clean the bathroom when she’s done being ‘queen of the house’. “Look,” Franz whispered and nudged his wife. “Yes, you can see in her face how much she loves it.” The pair watched Maria while she listened to the wonderful sounds. A few records later Franz could stand it no more, and as a glorious waltz careened from the horn, he stood and bowed to his wife. “Madam, may I have this dance?” She laughed and took his hand, gracefully they began to dance. Wistfully Maria thought ‘How wonderful to be n love like that.’ They were oblivious to everything but each other, lightly gliding around the room, it seemed to go on and on, then finally the waltz came to a close, Franz spun Klara one last time in his arms. “Ohh, Franz, stop, stop.” Klara stumbled a bit and only with his help regained her balance. Instantly Maria was at her side, together she and Franz gently sat her down on the edge of the bed. Outside a light rain thrummed gently against the window sill. Maria turned and closed the window. Klara murmured some protests as she settled into bed and then she fell silent. Maria and Franz exchanged a nervous glance. With a start Klara’s eyes fluttered open. “Ooo, I must have drifted off, I was having the most wonderful dream.” She yawned and stretched. “You were in it Maria, standing on a hill in the rain, surrounded by light, but I can’t recall any more.” She yawned again, which made Maria yawn. “We’d better get you into bed before we all start napping.” the maid said with a smile. “And then where would we be, hhmm?” Franz laughed as they covered Klara with a light blanket and settled pillows around her. “Thank you for the lovely music Frau Brüning.” “You are more than welcome, my dear, thank you for reminding me it was still there.” She exchanged a knowing smile with Franz. He and Maria quietly left as Klara drifted off to sleep.

The maids were in the kitchen working on Christmas dinner. Maria had burned the bread and was frantically kneading more dough. The kitchen bustled with activity as Irma rolled out cookies and Frau Lippert ground roast almonds in a mortar for her famous chocolate almond strudel. To her left was a sheet pan covered with a damp cloth, to the right was a bowl of shaved chocolate and close by was a wooden spoon to whack the hands of the other maids as they tried to sneak bits of chocolate while she wasn’t looking. “Maria,” she said, pestle grinding away, “don’t fret so much, Christmas is the day after tomorrow, we will have everything done in plenty of time.” “Irma slipped a tray of cookies into the oven and checked the temperature. “I have to leave a bit early, Nickolas is taking me out tonight.” “When are you going to marry that boy?” “When the boy becomes a man.” she smiled. “Ah, still playing hard to get I see.” “I’m not that hard to get.” the women laughed, Maria looked puzzled. “Don’t worry so much Maria, someday a man will come by for you.” “Yes,” Frau Lippert chimed in, “you’l never be a great chef, but you should be able to catch a good husband with your cooking.” “A husband,” the girl said, “What would I do with a husband?” “Do?” the women burst into laughter, Maria blushed and worked the dough furiously. “I’ve…I’ve seen some photographs, it looks…uncomfortable.” “Oh, it’s plenty comfortable, once you’re used to it.” snickered Irma. “That depends on the size.” The women doubled over, tears streaming. The kitchen door swung open, Albert sailed through. “Frau Brüning!” he sang as he escaped out the back door. Seconds later Frau Brüning entered. “Ladies, I’m hearing a good deal of laughter from in here. I trust everything is going well?” “Ja, Frau Brüning.” Irma dared to glance up at her and said: “We were just…” “You were just giggling like schoolgirls is what you were doing. If dinner is late, or if the Christmas dinner preparations are not done on time, you’re all sacked, is that clear?” “Ja, Frau Brüning.” “My daughter will be coming home tonight, rather unexpectedly, so you’ll have to set out two more plates. Maria, since you are currently sleeping in her room, the two of you will have to share. She will resent it, but that’s how life goes. Also, her birthday is this week, so I expect there will be a cake made. Extra money has been put aside to get the necessary ingredients. Sigrid, I don’t have to remind you of how important that day is.” “No Frau Brüning.” replied Frau Lippert. “Very well then ladies, I’ll leave you to your work.” The trio breathed a sigh of relief after she’d left.

Crunching it’s way across the snow covered gravel drive, the black car’s horn blared in a staccato way. The maids flew to the windows. From the passenger side door sprung a thin brunette in a severe grey outfit that was not quite a uniform, a small jet black purse gleamed in the clutches of her red kid gloves. It bore a blood red swastika embossed on the front, there was a matching pin on her left breast. “Fraulein Wulfia.” Frau Lippert intoned. “Oh, mein Gott en Himmel!” “What is it Irma?” Maria asked, seeing the younger woman go pale. “That man, the driver.” “Yes?” “He’s Klaus von Küfstein!” The other two women gave her blank looks. “The war hero! He was decorated by the Fuhrer just last week. Ooo, he’s so good looking!” “Stop it Irma, you think all men are handsome, especially if they’re in a uniform.” He was tall, a few inches over six feet, his cheekbones were high and his nose, slightly crooked, gave his face much character. His companion waited for him as he limped around the car, leaning on his walking stick. From behind the maids came Frau Brüning’s voice. “Ladies, why are you peeping like gossipy old widows? Maira, go and make coffee and sandwiches, Sigrid, go and open the door, we’ll greet our guests, Irma, go and tell Albert to bring in their luggage.” The two younger women fled as Frau Lippert opened the door. Frau Brüning stepped into the cold air. “Wulfia, let me look at you, you’re so thin! Ach, but it’s good to have you home. And who is this handsome young man you’ve brought with you?” The officer stiffly came to attention and focused his sharp gaze upon her. “Mother, this is Leutnant Klaus von Küfstein, Klaus, Klara Brüning, my mother.” Wulfia all but flung her coat at Frau Lippert and stalked into the warm room. Klaus made a stiff bow with a polite smile and brushed a kiss across the back of Frau Brüning’s hand. “Please,” she said smiling, “Won’t you come in?” He struggled to remove his top coat, Frau Lippert helped him. “Danke.” he muttered with a frown. Frau Brüning led them into the parlor just as Maria appeared with a tray of sandwiches and a steaming pot of coffee. “I imagine you two have had quite a trip?” “Is that real coffee?” Wulfia asked. “A bit but it’s mostly ‘Horst Wessel’ coffee. The real thing is so hard to come by now a-days.” There were smiles all around, except for Wulfia. Everyone knew that real coffee had become a luxury and anything called coffee was mainly malt. It was named ‘Horst Wessel coffee for the fallen Nazi martyr who marches with the Nazis ‘in spirit’. “Oh mother, the trip just went on endlessly.” “Yes, poor Wulfia, that two day trip took a lot out of her.” Klaus smiled. Wulfia glared in return. “We stopped in a little village for the night. The rooms were horrid and there were people a few rooms down the hall who were having a party and made a racket all night long!” “Oh, come on, they weren’t that bad.” “Terrible.” she muttered between gulps of hot coffee. No one was sure if she meant the partiers or the coffee. “And the riding, all day bouncing over the roads in that car. I swear, If it weren’t for Klaus telling me all about his exploits I think I would’ve gone mad.” Klaus smiled, but when he caught Maria’s eye he reddened to the hairline and looked down at his coffee. “Maria, would you bring us some more cream and some of Fraulein Shirer’s cookies please?” “Ja herrin.” she slipped from the room taking the empty cream pitcher with her. “Another one of father’s strays I take it?” “Yes, but a rather good one, she’s very quick and seems to be normal in every way.” “Normal?” from Klaus. “My father runs an asylum. Every so often we’re burdened with one of his ‘rehabilitated’ lunatics that he’s ‘helping rejoin society’.” Mother and daughter shared a wry smile. Klara spoke up, “In her defense I have to say she’s a delight to have around. I don’t believe she was actually a lunatic, but had been in some terrible accident and lost her memory. The poor thing has no idea who she is or where she’s from.” Maria entered the room with a tray of holiday cookies, a small cake and the refilled pitcher. “So, Leutnant von Küfstein, will you be staying with us?” Frau Brüning was saying. “Yes, only for a day or two, if it’s not inconvenient.” “Surely you’ll be staying through the holidays, we’d be happy to have you.” “You see, I told you.” smirked Wulfia. “I couldn’t impose.” “Nonsense, it’ll be fine. Maria?” The girl took a few steps towards her. “Go and make up the spare room and had Albert move Herr von Küfstein’s things up there.” “Ja herrin.” With a flashing glance at Klaus, she left. “This brings me to an awkward moment.” “Oh?” Wulfia was all ears. Any time her parents were out of sorts was fodder for her. Turning to Wulfia, Klara, clutching her napkin, said; “I’m afraid Maria’s been moved int your room. You see after I lost…became ill, your father installed her in your room so she would be close to me in case I needed her. The other rooms are taken, so I’m afraid you’ll have to share.” “Me, share a room with a lunatic?”  “Keep your voice down! She’s not a lunatic, I told you she suffered a terrible accident. Besides, it’ll be like school, won’t it, sharing a room with some one?” “Yes Wulfia, you should enjoy that, she can pick up after you and clean your messes.” Both the women cut him with an angry look. “This is what her room mates told me they did when she was there.” he shrugged and sipped his coffee. “When you were there? Past tense I take it?” “Not now mother.” Klara shifted in her seat, set her coffee cup down and primly clasped her hands in her lap. “I realize she’s a maid, but I would think you would treat her with the same respect you treat others Wulfia.” “Fine mother,” glad to be off the subject of college, “I just hope she doesn’t snore. Besides I probably won’t see her most of the time anyway, she’ll be doing your bidding and I’ll sleep in.” “Speaking of the time, I’ve got to run, I’m expected at the camp in an hour and in this weather I should barely make it in time and the new Major, I hear, is a stickler for punctuality.” “When should we expect you back Leutnant?” Klara sipped from her cup. “I should imagine around six, but I can’t say for sure. I’ll telephone when I’m leaving, if thats alright with you.” “That will be fine, we’ll hold supper for you then.” “Auf Wiedersehen!”

[NEED A DINNER SCENE WITH DR. BRÜNING AND SHOWING HOW MARIA IS A BETTER ‘FIT’ IN THE HOUSEHOLD THAN WULFIA. Perhaps her father comments on the startling way she now dresses and that her hair is cut short.]

Later that evening the pair of young women went upstairs to sleep. Maria was shy and quiet, not knowing how to act, sos she straightened up the room and began putting Wulfia’s things away. “I know you’re a maid and all, but you can stop, its alright. Just leave the stuff,, I’ll take care of it tomorrow.” She pulled an empty valise from maria’s hands and set it on the floor. “No, just let me…Frau Brüning wants me to…” “She’s not going to com bursting in here to scream at you because you’re not scrubbing day and night, relax, go to bed.” “But she’s always been so nice, I feel I should…” “You really like my parents don’t you.” “Certainly. They’ve been very kind, and your father has helped me so much.” “You’re a better daughter to them than I am.” “Don’t say that, its not true!” “Hmph, you’re welcome to them and their liberal babble. All they ever do is talk, just piling empty words on top of one another, there’s no substance to them!” “Substance?” Wulfia quoted; “‘The ignorance of the broad masses about the inner nature of the Jew, the lack of instinct and narrow-mindedness of our upper classes, make the people an easy victim for this Jewish campaign of lies. While from innate cowardice the upper classes turn away from a man whom the Jew attacks with lies and slander, the broad masses from stupidity or simplicity believe everything.’” “I don’t understand.” Maria stared at her wide eyed. “Haven’t you ever read ‘Mein Kampf?” “No, never.” Wulfia pulled a worn book from an open suitcase and threw it on the bed beside Maria. “Here, take my copy, it’ll open your eyes to whats really happening in the world.” “Oh, it’s written by the loud little man herr Hitler.” “He’ll soon be Chancellor and then you’ll see, everyone will see. Things will change, Germany will become strong again. He is a great man who will do great things for all Germans!” “I don’t know, he always seems so angry.” “Of course he’s angry, we’re all angry! Don’t you read the paper, pay attention to politics, listen to the wireless? The liberals have tied us down so the Jews and their European dupes can ravage us at will, and we’re expected to lay there and take it!” Maria didn’t know what to say, she was taken aback by the violence of Wulfia’s outburst. When the maid remained silent, Wulfia made a rude noise and muttered “Sheep’s head!” then turned her back on her. Maria shyly undressed and got into bed, listening to the night. Wulfia sat at the vanity running a brush through her hair, not really seeing her reflection in the mirror. A distant barking of someone’s dog made her shiver, but the sounds were soon covered by the grandfather clock in the parlor chiming the hour. Believing Maria to be asleep, Wulfia silently pulled a top coat from her closet and slipped into a pair of shoes. She crept to the window, opened it and climbed out onto the roof. Quietly closing the window, she made her way to an overhanging tree branch, climbed down the tree and was gone. Rising, Maria stared out the window and watched her run across the snow covered lawn where she disappeared behind a hedgerow. A small car slid up the drive and opened to let her in. The bright moonlight was enough for Maria to make out Leutnant von Küfstein’s face as they drove off.

“Oh no!” Frau Brüning slapped the R.S.V.P. on the table. “What’s the matter leibshein?” her husband asked without taking his eyes off the newspaper. “You’re cousin Marta can’t come, She’s going to be out of town at Christmas.” “That’s a shame, who else can you get?” “At this short notice, no one.” “That’ll be awkward with Herr Baseman having no dinner partner.” Maria walked in holding a coffee service on a tray. “I thought you might like some coffee.” She smiled and set the tray down. “Klara, I have an idea.” Franz sang.

[Wilfrid, Wulfia’s brother arrives, he will be bringing a date. He’s liberal, intellectual and the total opposite of Wulfia.]

Maria trembled uncontrollably. For most of the evening she sat mute, a smile fixed on her face, dressed in an old gown of Frau Brüning’s, not knowing what to say or which fork to use. She, Irma and Frau Lippert had prepared much of the meal ahead of time, so it was little trouble for the other two maids to finish it and serve it hot and ready. All she knew of her dining companion was that he was a blustering banker, a hundred years old (really 50, but to her he was ancient) who smelled of cigars and cabbage. “Let’s not ruin the evening by talking politics, those conversations can become a bit…tedious.” Klaus was saying. “Tell me, Frau Brüning, what is this dish?” “Its called Filet Mignon aux Oignons avec Gratin Dauphinois, a French dish made with the finest beef and potatoes in Germany.” She smiled. “Yes, of course, I’ve heard of it but never had the chance to taste it.” he turned to Wulfia: “You never told me your mother was a gourmet chef.” Before Wulfia could open her mouth, her mother leveled her formidable gaze on her and with fixed smile in place replied; “Leutnant von Küfstein you are far too charming. As much as I would like to take credit, the real honor goes to Fraulein Ankömling.” His shining blue eyes flashed across the table to touch the deep green gaze of Maria, who blushed, dabbing napkin to mouth with precise movements and wishing she could flee this sudden scrutiny. Rising to his feet he gave her a half bow. “Fraulein Ankömling, I commend your wonderful cooking,” saluted her with his wineglass and sat down to laughs and half hearted ‘bravos’ from the men at the table. Frau Brüning, sitting to Maria’s left, nudged her with a subtle elbow. “Maria, don’t be so tongue-tied!” “Now, now my dear, leave the girl alone.” Dr. Brüning said, leaning forward. “Thank you.” Maria fairly whispered. Wulfia, feeling left out and a bit bored spoke up: “Has anyone heard der Fuhrer’s latest speech?” There were some general murmurings. “He is a vibrant speaker, I’ll give him that.” Dr. Brüning said to his plate. Wulfia’s hungry gaze brushed everyone at the table. “He’s masterful. He holds the people in his hand. I can’t say enough about his leadership abilities.” “Then maybe you shouldn’t say anything, Wulfia.” “What?!” “I’ve been hearing news from Poland, disturbing news. I have some friends there at University and what they’ve been telling me is nothing short of criminal!” Everyone turned to Wilfrid as he spoke. Wulfia’s frown deepened into a thunderhead. “What liberal propaganda are you going to spread now Willy?” He took a deep breath and met his sister’s glare. “The Wehrmacht have been exterminating Jews by the dozens.” “We’re well rid of them, the sooner they’re gone, the better.” Klaus began to match Wulfia’s glare. Dr. Brüning set his wine glass down with a loud thump. “They are human beings Leutnant.” “They are animals who contaminate the very idea of Aryan purity.” Young Wilfrid leapt; “Its madness!” “I think you are becoming over-excited herr Brüning.” The leutnant carefully sipped his wine, but never took his eyes off of Wilfrid. “You must’ve been listening to that bleeding heart Blaskowitz.” Wulfia snarled. “He’s the commander of Poland, I think he knows what’s going on over there better than you do Wulfia!” “Was.” interjected Leutnant von Küfstein. “He’s been dismissed, it seems der Fuhrer didn’t agree with his radical viewpoints. “You march into Poland, begin taking Jewish prisoners and executing them immediately; the natural outcome of these actions is no less than genocide! But you won’t stop there, will you, I’m sure this army and der Fuhrer will push on and more will die, whoever you point to and say ‘enemy of the state’.” “You should be careful about what you say young Brüning, lest we come for you.” Wilfrid sprung to his feet, the chair crashing, utensils falling. Dr. Brüning also stood up. “Wilfrid! You will leave this table instantly!” “But he…” “Do NOT embarrass us any further!” “Fine!” throwing his napkin on the table he stormed off to the sound of slamming doors. Irma emerged from the kitchen, picking up the chair and removing the remains of Wilfrid’s dinner. The table guests remained silent. Frau Brüning placed a gentle hand on Franz’s arm, turned to Klaus. “I’m terribly sorry Leutnant. He’s just back from trips abroad and he’s fallen in with some bad company I’m afraid.” Wulfia stood up. “Please excuse me for a moment.” “Are you alright Wulfia?” “Fine, mother, I’ll be back shortly.” Wulfia made her way into the parlor and picked up the phone, dialing rapidly. “I need to speak to the local SS officer in charge please.” She glanced back over her shoulder, but never saw Frau Lippert peering from the kitchen. Upstairs Wilfrid picked up the phone to have Albert bring the car around and was startled to hear his sister’s voice. Silently he hung up the phone and began throwing a few last minute things into a valise. “Good thing I never unpacked.” he thought grabbing the valise and a suitcase. He made sure the parlor was empty as he slipped on his overcoat, snatched an umbrella out of the stand and fled into the night. He would never see his family again.

Many of the younger couples strolled to the middle of the floor as the music began, joined a few moments later by a few older couples. Some smiled, others had faces askew with concentration, but they wall whirled about the room to a slow graceful beat. The two women chatted away, leaving Maria to stand back a pace, poorly pretending to be part of the conversation. Leutnant von Küfstein served Wulfia a glass of wine. Maria thought him graceful and sure. “A nice party Wulfia, does your family do this often?” “Not so much any more. Years ago there were parties all the time it seemed. The house would fill with people talking, laughing, singing, It was a glorious madness. I used to sneak from my room and peek through the stair railings untilI was caught and then I’d be sent back to my room. I had great fun in those days.” “Would you care to dance?” “No, I’m terrible at it, I can barely keep step at the rallies. Do you dance well Klaus?” “I’m afraid so, I enjoy it.” “You could ask someone else.” “ It wouldn’t be right, now would it.” “Ask Maria.” What, why? She’s pretty, but…” “Go on, she’s been quite the wall flower all evening and she’s being held captive by the ‘good will’ of my mother. Be a good Knight of the Reich and rescue a damsel in distress.” “Very well.” With a nod to Wulfia, he straightened his jacket and strode across the room. From her seat Wulfia yelled: “I hear she loves a good waltzing!” and tilted her head, laughing. Klaus forced himself through the crowd making his way towards Maria. She turned a profile to him and he was touched by the sight. “I see sadness, fear, loneliness, an almost resigned air. My father would call me thunderstruck.” he thought. “Fraulein Ankömling, may I have this dance?” she gracefully took his sure hand and smiled deep into his eyes.

[Reports of a “Grey Man” have been cropping up - it’s Frankenstein’s monster]

Clouds silently gathered overhead, a stiff wind kicked up. The Brünings, with Leutnant von Küfstein, Maria, Irma and Nikolas, Frau Lippert and Albert in tow, had gone out for a picnic in the country. The youngsters laughed, gathering flowers and wading in the shallow creek, the girls shrieking at the coldness of it, the young men splashing them. Maria had wandered away, spying a small crop of wild roses at the foot of a hill near an old oak. loud As she picked them (jabbing a finger every so often on the thorns), she spied a greyish colored foot in the brush, She parted the brush with a trembling hand and spied a tall massive man in ragged filthy clothes. His skin was a corpselike grey, his hair lank and greasy. Her heart pounded, she somehow knew him from fevered dreams he was in some way familiar. Her mind whirled, she felt faint and fell back against the tree. A loud rumble of thunder announced the sudden sheets of down-pouring rain. The hulking figure rose slowly, regarded her with milky reddened eyes. Maria dropped her flowers, both hands rose involuntarily to her suddenly dry mouth. She backed away, horrified. “Wait!” the thing growled. She couldn’t believe he spoke! “Adam, I am Adam, you are Eve. Made. We were made. You are my friend.” She shrieked then and ran up the hill, the rain pelted down harder and once more thunder threatened the skies. Adam crashed trough the underbrush, paralleling her. She reached the crest of the hill lashed by icy rain, the electricity in the air danced upon her skin, scalp and skull, her hair flared about her like flames and despite her fear, she delighted in the sensation. There was a brilliant flash, she heard a sizzle and pop as the rogue lightening bolt struck hurling her into the air. Her unmoving body landed with a sodden thump and rolled to a stop beside split and burning oak. Adam flew to her side but a burning branch nearly struck him. Frightened ha backed off, then the sound of voices drove him deep into the brush as the men came running. Maria groaned to her hands and knees. She was cold and the rain was pouring down. She saw Dr. Brüning and Klaus, he’d told her to call him Klaus, were there, so were Albert and Nikolas. As they picked her up she lost consciousness again.

Maria awoke in a soft warm bed. It took half an hour to make the world stop whirling so she could gain her feet. She ached from head to toe and was dying of thirst. She drained the glass of water next to the bed and tried to stand. Her feet felt like they were burning. The room was vaguely familiar, but she couldn’t recall who’s room it was. The world was strangely silent as she made her way out the door, she needed to use the bathroom but didn’t know where it was. She staggered down the hallway and opened the first of three doors on her left. It was someone’s room, a wave of great joy washed over her from this place and a golden glow emanated from the victrola, closing the door she moved on. There were wisps of white that circulated through the air, some came close to her and took on an almost human face before evaporating or slipping away. The second door opened on a dark room, a silver and pinkish hue danced on all things in here, she closed the door and went to the third. It was a dark room with a deep purplish glow on the desk and wide couch, it smelled of cigar smoke, brandy, ancient paper and something else; death waiting vulture like in a forbidden corner. She pulled the door shut hard, but it made no noise. Something grabbed her and spun her around so fast she lost her balance and fell. People, there were people, they were talking but she couldn’t hear them. “I have to use the bathroom!” she bellowed. Some covered their ears, some laughed with silent mirth. As she was helped up an auburn haired woman took her arm and led her downstairs to the bathroom. After she’d finished the auburn haired woman took her into the parlor where the rest of the people sat. A tall man, surrounded by a purple glow bore a large black spot hovering over his right shoulder. It distracted her. “Can you hear me?” He shouted.” “Barely” She yelled. “Quieter Maria, we can hear you.” “I hurt all over, my feet are hot, I feel sick and my head hurts, ringing in my head.” “You should go back to bed.” “The lights are to bright, it hurts.” Dr. and Frau Brüning drew her up and soon had her back in bed. Dr. Brüning gave her a pill with her glass of water and she was soon asleep.

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