Days Of OTMA's Lives: The Original

[Tim]

And so...

Ivan S: I think I got Little Tatiana to eat again.
Tatiana: That's good. However, it's clear she misses you and Mashka.
Ivan S: I know.
Anastasia: This sucks. That poor little girl doesn't deserve this.
Olga: I know, Nastya, and hopefully, on Tuesday, it will be fixed.
Anastasia: Part of me wishes we had the Old Empire back, so we could exile the Krycek's to Siberia.
Tatiana: Nastya!
Anastasia: I'm sorry, but that's how I feel. They come into our lives, shatter my sister's heart, and only end up hurting Little Tatiana too. That little girl belongs to OUR family
Olga: And hopefully we'll get her back.


Upstairs...

Kole: Maria, it's me, Kole. No response.
Alexei: Do you think she knows we're here.
Kole: I don't know. She does seem partly aware of the world around here, so I think yes.
Alexei: Still, I hope she snaps out of it.
Kole: Me too.


Downstairs...

Victoria: Mama?
Tatiana: Yes dear?
Victoria: Where's Aunt Maria?
Tatiana: Your Aunt Maria is ill right now, Victoria. However, we are taking care of her.
Victoria: Will she get better.
Tatiana: Pats her daughters head. I hope so.


In the study...

Nicholas: Well.
Alexandra: Alexei and Kole are with her now. She still isn't responding.
Nicholas: Damn.
Alexandra: Did you hear about Little Tatiana?
Nicholas: Yes, I did. I'm glad Ivan got her eating again. However, this shows she wants to come home, that this is her home.
Alexandra: I know, Nicky. All we can do is wait for Tuesday.
Nicholas: Ironic, in the old days I could have ordered the Krycek's to return her.
Alexandra: I know, but you're not that man anymore. The man the Russian people hated, remember.
Nicholas: Yes, I remember. You're right, we have to wait...


Tatiana comes upstairs and runs into Kole and Alexei...
Tatiana: How is she... any response?
Alexei (Kole shakes her head): Nope... not even one!
Tatiana (sighs): I'll go and sit with her now! (both Kole and Alexei nod and she goes in): Maria? It's me... it's your sister Tatiana! (very slowly Maria moves her head and looks at her but all of a sudden moves it back staring ahead again) At least you noticed me! Maria, we've all been taking turns sitting with you... we're trying to help you come back to us! Will you come back to us soon? (no response, Tatiana shrugs) It didn't hurt to try and trigger another response! Do you know what tomorrow is? (no response) It's Sunday... which of course means Mass at the Feodorovski Sobor! (no response) Will you be able to make it? (shakes head) Perhaps not! (places a hand on top of one of hers) I'll return shortly... I'm just going to get some needlepoint alright? (no answer) Alright then!
Sam (runs into Tatiana): Well?
Tatiana: No response except for one! When I told her I was there... she very slowly turned her head and looked at me then turned it back!
Sam: I think she recognizes you because your one of her sisters!
Tatiana: Funny but she didn't do that for Kole and Alexei... and Alexei is her brother!
Sam: Hmm, i don't know then!
Tatiana: I'll return to her after i get some needlepoint to work on!
Sam (jokes): Oh yes... must not be idle for one second heaven forbid!
Tatiana (laughs): Yes, i suppose not!
Sam: Alright then... as you were! (Tatiana nods and goes on her way, Sam peeks in) Oh Maria... dear, dear Maria!

She just shakes her head and goes on her way. Downstairs...
Anastasia (watches): Olga?
Olga: What?
Anastasia: What's on your mind?
Olga: Maria... what else could possibly be on my mind right now!?
Anastasia: Gee, you didn't have to get all snappy all of a sudden!
Olga (sighs): I'm sorry... it's just...
Anastasia: You're concerned for her... we all are!
Olga: This is all their fault!
Anastasia: Who's?
Olga: The National Intruder... if they would just leave us alone for one minute everything would be okay!
Anastasia (sighs): I know Olga, i have an article or two about me remember... not to mention the stuff they've printed about you! (Olga laughs) What's so funny?
Olga: I must admit... after everything that happened that day...
Anastasia: What?
Olga: I guess I did deserve those articles didn't I?
Anastasia: Do you really need clarification on that?
Olga (shakes head smiling): No, i suppose I don't!
Alexandra (comes in): Dinner is ready girls!
Olga: We'll be right there Mama! (gets up) Does anyone know where Tatiana is?
Anastasia: She's up with Maria right now! (shakes head) It's like Mama all over again!
Olga (stops on the stairs): What makes you say that?
Anastasia: Do you remember when we were growing up... one sister always had to stay behind and be with Mama while the others had fun or something! Now look at what's happening with Maria!
Olga: Good point... never thought about that! There's only one difference!
Anastasia: What?
Olga: It's not one sister for the entire day... it's all of us taking shifts instead!
Anastasia: One difference... big deal! (starts heading in to dinner) I'll let them know you're getting Tatiana!
Olga: You do that!

Olga gets upstairs...
Tatiana (puts down her embroidery and turns at a knock on the door): Oh, hi Olga!
Olga: Hey! Mama just told us dinner is ready!
Tatiana: Alright! Just let me take care of this IV drip here! (inserts a new syringe to keep the drip going) There we go... alright lead the way!
Olga: I shouldn't have to!
Tatiana: True... i think i may have worded that wrong then!
Olga: I know what you meant!
Tatiana: Hold on... (goes and knocks on Sam's door) Sam?
Sam (voice): Yeah?
Tatiana: Mama says dinner is ready!
Sam (opens door): Alright, let's go then!

They come into the dining room...
Alexandra: I don't know if you've heard...
Sam: Dinner's ready!
Alexandra: Yes!
Ivan S (sighs as they all sit): Something's wrong here!
Olga (looks to where Maria usually sits): Maria's not here!
Sam: She'll join us again soon... we have to believe that!
Nicholas: Let's talk about other things for now!
Sam: I agree!
Ivan S: What else is there to talk about?
Tatiana: We'll find something to talk about, don't worry!
Ivan S (shrugs): Alright then!

Next day...
Sam (goes in to the nursery): Maria, hey... it's me! (no response) The others went to the Feodorovski Sobor for Sunday Mass just so you know! (very slowly Maria raises her hand and slowly but surely crosses herself and slowly bows her head but quickly brings it back up) Another trigger... let's see what happens if i say it again! (watches her) Maria? (no response) Sunday Mass! (Maria's triggered again the same as earlier) That works! I guess I found another trigger! I wonder... maybe we can have a priest come over... would you like that Maria so you could still have some sort of... (doesn't say it) well, you know! (no response) If you agree and I can get a priest here... (takes her hand) squeeze my hand! (Maria slowly but surely squeezes her hand) That is a yes then! (pats her hand) I'll be right back then! (goes down and to the phone) I'd like to speak with a priest please?
Priest (voice): You are speaking to one child!
Sam: Oh yeah... i knew that! Look, i need a priest to come for some sort of Mass here!
Priest (voice): Are you infirm child?
Sam (rolls her eyes hating the term "child"): No, it's not for me! But in a way, yes... she's incapable right now of going anywhere! (sighs) She's catatonic right now!
Priest (voice): Ah, call the Tatiana Malama medical center... they have priests there in the hospital chapel who deal with this!
Sam: Ah, thank you!
Priest (voice): Bless you daughter!
Sam (nods and hangs up shaking her head): Yeah, yeah, yeah! (calls the center) I need to connect with the center's chapel please?
Receptionist (voice): Right away!
Father Konstantin (voice): This is Father Konstantin, how may i be of service?
Sam: We have a catatonic woman here in need of the Mass! The priest at the Feodorovski said to call the hospital chapel for a case like this!
Father Konstantin: Yes, we were sent here to specialize in things like this! Many of the patients here are also from the psyche ward! We even go to the same ward for those that can not make it!
Sam: Can you travel to Anichkov Palace then?
Father Konstantin: Allow me to get my things, I shall be there soon!
Sam: Thank you for your help!
Father Konstantin: Bless you child!
Sam: Yeah, thanks! (hangs up) Whatever! (goes upstairs) Maria? (no response) A priest is coming to see you! (sighs) If only you'd snap out of it! (no response) I guess not! (hears it) That's the door... that must be Father Konstantin! (goes down and answers the door to see a young man) Father?
Father Konstantin: Yes, take me to the young woman!
Sam: Right this way!
Father Konstantin: May I ask her name?
Sam (sighs): It's Maria! (opens the nursery door) Please come in! (kneels beside her) Maria... he's here!
Father Konstantin (as Sam heads towards the door): You aren't going to attend?
Sam: I'm not much for this... but I'll be right here at the door watching on if that's alright?
Father Konstantin: Very well! (he does a small liturgy where Maria slowly crosses herself again and bows her head quickly bringing it back up, he does the Eucharist which although very slowly she accepts and kisses his ring and the cross and all that stuff but goes right back into her state. He turns) It is done!
Sam: Thank you Father for your help... it was very well appreciated! (gestures) I'll show you to the door!
Father Konstantin: Very well!

They get downstairs when the door opens...
Tatiana (surprised): Father Konstantin! When did you get here?
Father Konstantin: Some time ago! This young lady asked for a priest for Mass although the woman who needed it was catatonic!
Olga: Did Maria...?
Sam: Yes, I watched from the door! She slowly but surely went along with everything!
Ivan S: Is she... has she come back to us?
Sam (shakes head): I'm afraid not... she went right back into that state when the mass was completed!
Father Konstantin: I'll be on my way... if you need me again let me know!
Sam: I doubt we will... but we'll keep that in mind!
Tatiana (Father Konstantin nods and leaves): How did you do it?
Sam (smiles): I found another trigger! If you say Sunday Mass, she slowly but surely raises her hand and crosses herself, slowly bows her head but quickly brings it back up again! I asked if I could... if she would like a priest to come for some sort of Mass service! If she agreed, I asked her to squeeze my hand!
Alexandra: She did?
Sam: She did! So I called the cathedral who told me to call the Center Chapel... rest is history!
Olga: Sam?
Sam: What?
Olga: You are brilliant!
Sam: Yeah, too bad she miraculously didn't snap out of it!
Tatiana: It's has to do with her mental state... surely having a priest perform mass here is good but that doesn't bring Little Tatiana back to her now does it?
Sam: Good point!
Olga: How's about some lunch everyone?
Sam: Lunch sounds good!
Alexandra/Olga: I'll get it started!
Olga: We'll get it started... right Mama?
Alexandra: Right!

At lunch...

TBC... Scene continues with Lunch of course. Maria's back her in catatonic state again... until Tuesday of course! It was smart of Sam to have a service provided for her!

[Tim]

Ivan S: I just want me wife back.
Tatiana: Ivan, we all want her back. I too am worried. The IV's are there to keep her nourished, but it doesn't take the place of REAL food.
Olga: Two more days.
Nicholas: What was that.
Olga: Two more days until Tuesday, the 20th. That's when the appeal is.
Alexandra: I hope this snaps her out of it.
Ivan S: Me too. Little Nicholas keeps asking about his mother. I've been able to hold him off, but sooner or later, he'll work it out.
Anastasia: Part of me wonders how this happened, how could ANY judge on the face of this Earth think that Mashka is an unfit mother.
Tatiana: Nastya, as we said, it's not that. The Krycek's are Little Tatiana's blood relatives, and that is why they got custody.
Anastasia: That doesn't make it right.
Tatiana: We know. However, I hope whatever rabbit Sam will pull out of her hat on Tuesday will help.
Alexandra: So do we all.
Kole is quiet.
Alexei: You've been awfully quiet, Kole, is anything wrong.
Kole: I'm still wondering why Sam won't come to services with us. I know she's not a member of our Church, but surely she can come and watch. I used to attend services of churches I wasn't part of. You know, for weddings and stuff like that.
Alexei: I don't know. Just out of curiosity, Kole, what religion did you belong to in your time.
Kole: Well, I was born into a family of Roman Catholics, but as I got older, I drifted away. On Sundays I was too busy flying to go to church. Flying planes became my religion, I guess you could say. Ironic because that is what ultimately landed me here.
Anastasia: What do you think of our faith, Kole, being a relative newcomer and all that.
Kole: I like it. It's nice to belong to something larger than yourself. Besides, converted allowed me to join this family, and I've never looked back. So that brings me back to my original question of why Sam won't come. She's practically family here. She doesn't have to convert if she just wants to come and watch. Right?
Alexei: Yes, that's right.
Kole: Someone should ask her.
Olga: Maybe we will, but after Mashka is better.


Later, in the basement...

Kole: Well, that's it.
Alexei: What is it?
Kole: My ship, it's finally fixed.
Alexei: It is. After all these months.
Kole: Yes.
Alexei: Are you still planning on taking it into Earth orbit?
Kole: Yes, I am.
Alexei: Then I'm still coming with you.
Kole: I don't know if your parents would be too thrilled about that.
Alexei: Doesn't matter, I'm a grown man. I can go if I want, and they can't stop me.
Kole: I have to warn you, there will be risks.
Alexei: I don't care, Kole. You're my wife. Where you go, I go.
Kole: Smiles. Thank you. Of course, this won't happen until after Maria is better. I'll have to call someone to get the ship moved.
Alexei: Where will you move it to.
Kole: How about that air base outside of St. Petersburg, the one where we flew in that plane.
Alexei: Yeah, I still remember that. It was fun, mind you the first time I fainted dead away.
Kole: Yes, but since then you've taken in it stride.
Alexei: Anyway, Kole, I'm going to tell the others your news. You coming?
Kole: In a while, I'm just going to do some more checks.
Alexei: Okay, see you later! Leaves.
Kole: To herself. To be in space again...


Alexei: Hey guys, I have news!
Sam: News huh?
Alexei: Yeah, Kole just got her ship fixed!
Tatiana: Really?
Alexei: Really! She was even thinking of orbiting into space! But there is one problem!
Sam: Don't worry, i have friends in high places remember! Besides who says the ship will be seen?
Alexei: Huh?
Sam: I have enough power to make it invisible... no one sees and no one even hears it!
Alexei: You can do that?
Sam: The Queen of Quotes has returned yet again!
Olga: A friend of mine once said...
Sam: I was getting to that! She once said "Magic is very simple, all you have to do is want something and let yourself have it! But of course that applies to people such as myself not mortals such as well you!
Olga: Makes sense I suppose!
Alexei: I'm going to tell Mashka!
Sam: You just may get a response if lucky!
Alexei: Here's hoping!
Sam: Oh and by the way... your parents are with her just so you know!
Alexei: Good to know that!

Upstairs...
Alexei (pokes head in): How is she?
Alexandra: She's still the same we fear!
Alexei: Just think tomorrow... everything will be okay again!
Nicholas (sighs): I hope so!
Alexei: It's a good thing you're here anyhow! I have news!
Nicholas: What news is this?
Alexei: Kole's finished work on her ship! After a few more checks to make sure everythings alright... she wants to take it back out into orbit!
Nicholas: I don't know if that's a good idea son!
Alexei: Yeah, but get this... Sam says she can help so there's still no knowledge about it!
Alexandra: How?
Alexei: She says she can make the ship invisible! No sight of the ship and no one will hear it!
Nicholas: She's that powerful?
Alexei: Apparently so! (Alix sighs) Mama?
Alexandra: Just... just be safe dear!
Alexei: Don't worry, we will be! (goes and takes Maria's hand) If i have your approval and you heard everything... squeeze my hand or give me some sort of triggered sign!
Nicholas (Maria squeezes Alexei's hand): She did it... my boy, you triggered a response!
Alexei: I did didn't I?
Nicholas (Alix is saddened he goes and puts his arms around her): Alix, do not worry... soon come tomorrow everything will be okay again!
Alexandra: Or Wednesday... like Sam said a decision isn't made in one sitting!
Nicholas: True, but i don't think she'll go catatonic again on us!
Alexandra: We can only hope for that!

Next day...
Olga (sitting with Maria, Olga smiles ): Remember when i talked about not taking my job... this is one of those moments! (goes serious) Mashka... we're worried about you! This is so unlike you... we always thought being the brave sister that you were emotionally stronger to handle things! But Sam did say everyone has their breaking point... i guess yours has been reached! (sighs and sits in front of her putting her head back on her lap) If only you would snap out of it! (All of a sudden Maria's hand moves and she places it on top of Olga's head) Maria? (gets up but as she does Maria places her hand right back on the arm of the chair) You moved... the others have got to know this!
Sam (Olga rushes down): What's going on?
Olga: Maria, she moved! I sat on the floor and rested my head against her lap! I told her if only she would snap out of it! Her hand must have moved because all of a sudden i felt it on my head but when I got up in surprise... her hand moved right back to the arm of the chair!
Sam: Maybe you triggered a comforting response... she saw you were worried about her! She only partially realizes the world around her... little by little she's fully coming back though!
Tatiana: That's a good thing right?
Sam: That is a very good thing!
Olga: I'm going to go back up to her!
Tatiana: Very well!

TBC... Maria's still catatonic until tomorrow! Tomorrow, Sam and her Ivan "snap her out of it" a couple hours before the hearing and she's not even going to realize she was out of it! By the way Sam's quote comes from Aggie Cromwell in the first Halloweentown Movie!

[Tim]

Meanwhile, Alexei and Kole are overseeing the ship at the airfield...

Kole: There, we'll keep it here until it's ready to go. Of course, as I said, nothing is going to happen until Maria is better. In fact..
Alexei: What is it, Kole?
Kole: As you see, this ship can accommodate a crew of ten if needed. Maria can come with us, in fact, your whole family can, if they want.
Alexei: I don't know about that, Kole.
Kole: It doesn't hurt to ask.
Alexei: I'll keep that in mind. Oh, Sam told me that she can make the ship invisible, so no one can see it.
Kole: Cool, a real life cloaking device.
Alexei: Cloaking device?
Kole: On Star Trek, some of the aliens, like the Romulans, use what is called a cloaking device. It makes their ships invisible.
Alexei: Sounds cool.
Kole: Well, there is a drawback. The cloaking device takes up so much power the ship can't fire its weapons or raise its shields. Of course, that doesn't apply here.
Alexei: Yeah, I guess Sam just wants to make sure history stays on course.
Kole: Yeah, considering the first man made object won't be launched for another thirty-one years, according to history.
Alexei: Oh yeah, you told us about that. Russia does it. Spu... Spu...
Kole: Sputnik.
Alexei: Yeah. Anyway, we better get back. The hearing will be in a few hours. We'll all want to be there for Maria.
Kole: Right behind you.


Sam and Ivan S go upstairs...
Ivan S: Today's the day... you really think this will work?
Sam: If Maria wants to get her back it will! (takes a breath) Here goes nothing! (they both go in) Maria? Ivan, take the other side! (Ivan S nods. She kneels at one side, him on the other) Mashka... today's the day! Today is the new hearing!
Ivan S: Mashka... just come back to us honey!
Sam (her and Ivan S look to each other. She looks to Maria): You want to get her back don't you? I think they'd be wondering why you would be absent... they probably won't take too kindly to that actually! Maria... (moves hair from her face) honey... you have to snap out of it! Do it for your daughter if not for any of us!
Ivan S (Maria's head slowly moves to look at Sam, then moves the other side to look at Ivan): She's moving... you think she's coming to?
Sam: I don't know! Maria?
Maria (slowly): Sam? Ivan?
Ivan: She's speaking!
Sam (laughs): Yes Maria... we're here!
Maria (fully comes to and looks around): Where am I?
Ivan S: You're in the nursery!
Maria (looks to her arm): Why do I have a needle in my arm?
Sam (looks to Ivan and back to Maria): You don't remember do you?
Maria: No, I guess I don't! What's going on?
Ivan S: Honey, you were catatonic!
Maria: WHAT!?
Sam: Do you remember anything before it happened?
Maria (shakes head): Not really!
Sam: What do you remember about last Saturday... anything at all?
Maria: I woke up, I came in here thinking and hoping it was all a bad dream! When I looked into the empty crib... i realized that it wasn't a dream at all! I remembered that is was real, that it really happened! Then...
Ivan S (Maria shakes her head trying to remember): Then?
Maria: I don't know! Everything went hazy... i do remember sitting down though!
Sam: Maria, the IV you noticed... it was put in to keep you fed!
Maria: How long have I been...
Sam: Catatonic?
Maria: Yes, that! (Ivan S and Sam look at each other making her look back and forth) HOW LONG... ANSWER ME!
Sam: Maria, you've been out since Saturday and you just came back to us today!
Maria: Saturday, back today... (gasps) that's almost been four days straight!
Sam: Yes... but Mashka you've come back to us! Here... let me take care of this! (as gentle as possible, she takes the IV out) There you go! (all of a sudden Maria hugs her) Oh, it's so good to have you back!
Maria: It's good to be back! (hugs Ivan S) Oh, Ivan!
Ivan S: Welcome back Mashka... oh I've missed you!
Maria (alarmed): Nicholas?
Ivan S (puts her at ease): It's alright... i told him you were ill! Him and the others are already at school for the day!
Maria: Oh! Where are the others?
Sam: Kole and Alexei went to put her ship in an airfield... she finally finished fixing it! The others are downstairs! Why don't you get cleaned up and everything and meet us down there... you still have some time before the hearing okay?
Maria: Okay!

Downstairs...
Olga: I'm going up there! If Maria hasn't yet...
Tatiana (stops her): No, Olga! Sam said she knew what she was doing! (hears footsteps) I think that's her and Ivan coming now!
Nicholas (Ivan S and Sam come into view): Well?
Sam: You'll find out soon enough!
Alexei (enters with Kole): What's going on?
Sam: You'll see!
Alexei: I can't wait to be at the courthouse again! (Sam shakes her head smiling) What?
Sam: None of you are going to be there! Me, Maria and her Ivan, and my surprise witness are going to be there today! Speaking of surprises... (door knocks) come in!
Olga: ANYA!
Sophia (comes in behind her): Hey, did you miss us?
Anya: Oh but of course you guys did!
Tatiana (looks around them): Where's Sandra?
Sophia: Don't know... she said she had to do something this afternoon!
Tatiana: Oh!
Maria (voice): Everyone?
Olga (and everyone else turns in shock): MASHKA! You're back!
Maria (almost clobbered making her laugh): Okay, okay... don't everyone squish me at once!
Alexandra (hugs her): Oh welcome back my little one! It is so good to hear you laughing again!
Maria (smiles): It's good to be back and laughing again... I didn't even know I was out at first!
Anastasia: You...
Maria: It's alright, Sam and Ivan told me everything! Tatiana?
Tatiana: Yes?
Maria: Thank you... for putting in that IV to keep me fed!
Tatiana: You're welcome!
Maria: Has anyone made breakfast yet?
Tatiana: No, not yet... there's still some time!
Maria: Good... it's time i slipped back into my routine of things!
Alexei: Yeah, yeah it is!

At breakfast...
Ivan S: Wow Mashka...

TBC... scene continues with Ivan S's line of how he's missed her cooking and everyone else agrees! Next, I'll send Sam and Maria and her Ivan off to court while the others stay behind! Of course I know where Sandra is! Look, Anya and Sophia are back!


Ivan S: Wow, Mashka, I never realized how much I've missed your cooking.
Maria: Oh you!.
Anastasia: He's right. I'm just glad you're back.
Maria: Yeah, and I don't remember any of it. I woke up and felt a needle in my arm.
Tatiana: That was me, Maskha. I had to give you an IV drip to make sure you were nourished.
Maria: It doesn't beat real food though.
Olga: I agree.
Anastasia: To Anya and Sophia. How have you two been?
Anya: Fine. We love our place. By the way, we're in the same apartment building as Alexei and Kole are.
Alexandra: You are!?
Kole: How do you think we found out about the apartment in the first place. They're two floors above us.
Maria: Did you know that Sablin, Cousin Dimitri and R (too lazy to look up his name right now) are in that building too?
Sophia: Yes, we see them from time to time as well.
Anya: We heard about Yurovsky. We're so sorry.
Kole: Actually, he's at peace now. I'll explain later.
Sophia: Sounds like we missed a lot here.
Nicholas: You have.
Anastasia: Yes. Brings Anya and Sophia up to speed.
Anya: Wow, I lot did happen. However, we promise to keep more in touch.
Olga: We'd like that.
Sam comes in.
Ivan S: Mashka, I think it's time to go.
Maria: Okay, wish us luck everyone...


On their way...
Sam (looks to Maria): You scared?
Maria: I'm trying not to be... the last time we were here my heart was taken out and stomped on, on the floor!
Ivan S: We know... we started to think we had lost you because of it!
Maria: No, I'm still here... I'm back and i don't ever want be like that again!
Sam: We don't want you to be like that again either... that terrified the hell out of all of us!
Maria: What do you recall happening on Saturday? I mean, who found me?
Sam: I did! It was Saturday morning when i found you! We all thought it weird you weren't at breakfast so I said I'd go up and see what's going on! I thought, maybe you'd overslept... your bed and the room was empty! I remember going down the hall and my eyes caught that the nursery door was open! I peek in and sure enough there you are in the rocking chair! The neatly folded blanket and the pillow on top of it on your lap, you staring straight ahead, and you were rocking back and forth in the rocking chair! I called out to you, i waved my hand in front of you and tapped your shoulder... nothing! It was as if you just shut down... i realized "oh no, she's catatonic"
Ivan S: Then she screamed out the door that we had a problem... a big, big problem!
Sam: Exactly! All of us took shifts sitting with you hoping that whatever we might say... that it might trigger you to snap out of it!
Ivan S: You should tell her about before the IV!
Sam: Oh yes... certain things would trigger certain responses! Ivan said something about taking you down to the center to keep you fed... you apparently disagreed with that! You did not want to be removed from that chair because all of a sudden your hands clutched the arms of the chair and when Ivan tried to lift you... you wouldn't budge! So correction half percent of the time you were only semi-catatonic! You looked at Tatiana once when she called out to you but then went right back to looking straight ahead!
Maria: Was someone stepping on my foot?
Sam (smiles): Nastya tried... hoping maybe that would snap you out of it! But it didn't! You even had Sunday Mass in a catatonic state!
Maria: I vaguely remember that... Father Konstantin that was his name!
Sam (gasps): You remember! Yes, that was his name!
Maria: I would expect this from Olga... especially not from myself!
Sam (shakes head): Everyone has their breaking point... what happened destroyed you and in the end it really showed! (looks to Ivan then looks back to her) Do you remember that article from National Intruder?
Maria: Oh, that I have not forgotten about! (smiles) Do you remember Mattress Sliding?
Sam: Yes, and I do remember that i made you have fun... which is all the more reason why the next morning shocked the hell out of all of us!
Maria (looks out window): We're here!
Sam: It's going to be okay... stay strong!
Maria: I can only try!
Ivan S (sighs): So can I!

Back at the palace...
Anastasia: How do you think it's going?
Olga (looks to the clock): They've probably just started!
Tatiana: We just have to wait until they come back!
Anya: Hey Olga?
Olga: Yeah?
Anya: I have a wonderful idea!
Olga: Which is?
Anya: How about celebratory fudge!
Olga: We have to find out if they win first! (gasps) Anya, you are amazing!
Anya (surprised): What did i say?
Olga (sends a text): Now we just wait and see!
Tatiana: Did you text Maria?
Olga: I did! (gets a text and smiles) They were just entering the courthouse! She says she'll be more than glad to tell us if they won!
Tatiana: Alright! Though if they lose, this can become more like "Feel better" fudge!
Olga (shrugs): Let's start working on that fudge... i haven't made some in quite a while!
Anastasia: That, and Sam keeps eating it!
Tatiana: Well, she does love chocolate that's for sure!
Anastasia: We know!
Olga: Care to help?
Tatiana: Who was that question addressed to?
Olga (looks to Anya): All of you!
Tatiana (looks to Anastasia who nods): Why not?
Olga: Let's get started then!
Tatiana (hears knock): Hold on, I'll get the door! (answers it) Sablin, Rodionov... Cousin Dmitri!
Dmitri P: We just wanted to wish them luck!
Tatiana: I'm sorry but you just missed them! Don't worry, Olga will get a text from Maria when it's all over!
Rodionov: Well that works!
Tatiana: Come in!
Sablin: Gladly! Where are...
Tatiana: Mama and Papa? (they nod) Winter Palace, so Mama can rest!
Sablin: One of her headaches again?
Tatiana: Yes, unfortunately!
Olga (voice): Are you coming to help or what?
Tatiana: My apologies, i agreed to help in the kitchen!
Alexei: Don't worry, we'll keep them company!
Tatiana: Thank you Alexei!
Alexei: Ah, don't mention it!


At courthouse, they come out...
Maria: Did that really just happen?
Sam: Yes, my dear it really just happened!
Maria: I told Olga I'd send her a text!
Ivan S: Oh yes, wait until we see the looks on everyones faces!
Sam: Oh, i know!

Anichkov Palace...
Olga: That's my phone!
Anastasia (Olga grabs her phone from the counter): Well... what happened?
Olga: She says to call Mama and Papa... they'll be returning soon!
Tatiana: Did they win or not?
Olga: I don't know... that's all her message said!
Tatiana: I have an idea... (pokes head out) Alexei?
Alexei: Yes Tatiana?
Tatiana: Could you please call Mama and Papa and tell them to come right away?
Alexei: Sure thing! Did they win?
Tatiana: Maria's text didn't say!
Alexei: Alright!

Soon, the three have returned...
Maria (voice): Could someone please get the door? (the door opens) Thank you Olga... don't look so shocked!
Olga: Oh my goodness!
Maria: Shh (gestures down to... is that?) you'll wake her up!
Olga: This gives us cause to celebrate!
Tatiana (Olga comes into the dining room smiling): You're all happy!
Olga: It's time for the celebratory fudge!
Tatiana: Is...? (they all come out) She's here!
Maria: She's not the only one... (they enter) everyone meet Anton and Raisa Krycek! (they're stunned) Mama, Papa... they're her grandparents just as much as you two are and i want them to still be a part of her life!
Raisa Krycek: Thank you Maria!
Sam: There's one other person... yes, the identity of the suprise witness is to be revealed now!
Tatiana (shocked like everyone else): SANDRA!
Sandra: Hey, long time no see! (smiles at Sophia and Anya) I did say i had something to do this afternoon! (turns to the Kryceks) Although from what I gather... you would've never treated her the way my grandparents treated me... she's lucky!
Anton: We're sorry you weren't so lucky!
Sandra: Oh it's done, it's over with and luckily they're both dead so i don't even have to worry about them! Sorry if that sounded harsh!
Olga: But it's the way you feel!
Tatiana: Fudge anyone? Sugar free so the imp can still have some! Speaking of... Mama, Papa?
Alexandra: Yes dear?
Tatiana: Me and Anastasia now also know how to make fudge!
Anastasia (smiles and nods towards Anya and Olga): We had good teachers!
Olga: Well your quite welcome!
Anya: Yeah! (grins) Let's celebrate!
Maria: I have one thing left to say to the Kryceks!
Anton Krycek: Which is?
Maria: Thank you for giving her back to us without that much of a fight!
Raisa Krycek: She was miserable without you... we thought it would be best for her!
Sam (sees someone on the stairs smiling): She's here Maria!
Maria: Who is?
Maria K (voice): I am!
Raisa Krycek: Anton, that isn't...
Maria K (comes down the stairs smiling): Yes Mama, it's me... I'm really here! You and Papa did the right thing giving her back!
Anton Krycek: Maria, if i could take back the things i said in your last years of life...
Maria K: Don't Papa, it's okay! I forgive you, you and Mama both! I want you to know that i never stopped loving you even when you slammed the door in my face when I needed a place to stay! (to Tatiana) I knew I was pregnant but i also knew i needed the money! I went to them asking for a place to stay!
Anton Krycek: I told her she was an unwelcome stranger and that our daughter was dead... i then slammed the door in her face! That was that! We didn't know that in the next three months our daughter really would be dead!
Maria K (Raisa starts crying): Mama, please don't cry... i am at peace now! I'm also glad you still get to be a part of her life... I want you to be here for her too! (looks behind her) Mama, Papa... (looks to the others) everyone, I have to go now! I was allowed to finally see you and to say the goodbye i never got to say before!
Anton Krycek: Go in peace my daughter!
Raisa Krycek: I never stopped loving you my dear child!
Maria K: And I never stopped loving either of you! (dissipates, voice) Goodbye!
Sam: Why don't you both sit... let yourselves process all this!
Raisa Krycek (wipes tears): Thank you for your hospitality!
Maria: You're quite welcome!
Maria K (reappears): Oh and Maria?
Maria: Yes?
Maria K (smiles): I'll see you around... (starts to dissipate again) in the Misty Field!
Maria: Alright!

That night Maria and Maria see each other in the misty field...


TBC... Scene continues with both Maria's who are having a happy conversation! Maria K's happy she's allowing her parents to be a part of the little ones life... go figure knowing our Maria! !She's back... Little Tatiana is back where she belongs! How sweet of Maria to forgive and let the Kryceks still be a part of Little Tatiana's life! Everyone is happy now! That was a sweet moment with Maria Krycek... now everyone got to see what she looks like besides Maria!


Maria: Hello again.
Maria K: I just wanted to say thank you. You will be a wonderful mother to Little Tatiana.
Maria: And I thank you for giving me your blessing to raise her.
Maria K: Also, I'm happy that I was able to make peace with my parents at last.
Maria: What happened, if you don't mind me asking.
Maria K: I got into a bad fight with them one day. They didn't like the man I wanted to date and they tried to forbid me to see them. We got into a terrible argument and I walked out, vowing never to return. Turns out they were right, the man was a creep. However, I was too proud to admit I had made a mistake and go back home. Life on my own was not as easy as I had hoped, I needed money.
Maria: So that is why you turned to prostitution?
Maria K: Yes, it was easy money and the best part, so I thought, is that I didn't have to risk getting an emotional connection to the men I met. It was just a job to me, a way to make money.
Maria: It must have been hard.
Maria K: It was. As you know, I ended up pregnant, the protection doesn't always work. That was when I went to my parents. However, when they saw what I had become, they slammed the door in my face. I had no choice but to continue my trade. Then I met the Moscow Ripper.
Maria: That must have been horrible.
Maria K: It was. Although I was mortally injured by him, I clung to life, because I knew of the baby inside me. I survived just long enough to reach your sister. You know the rest.
Maria: Yes. I promise that little girl will have a long and happy life with me, my husband, and other children.
Maria K: That's all I wanted to know. Farewell Maria Skorokhodov
Maria: And you Maria Krycek.

Maria K disappears into the mist and our Maria wakes up.

Maria: Ivan! Ivan, come in here...


Ivan S (rushes in): Maria... what is it? What's wrong!?
Maria (smiles): Nothing's wrong Ivan! (sighs) I think I may have seen the other Maria for the last time! She just wanted to make sure Little Tatiana would be okay! She's happy her parents get to be a part of the little ones life... that's what she wanted! But you know?
Ivan S: What?
Maria: I wouldn't doubt that she'll be watching over us like the rest of them!
Ivan S: She probably will be! Get some more sleep, you had a long day!
Maria: I will and goodnight!
Ivan S (kisses her forehead): Goodnight my dear!

At breakfast...
Sam (sees Maria come out of the kitchen): She's up... she's cooking!
Maria: Oh very funny!
Little Nicholas (and the others walk in): Where's...?
Maria (nods to the lunches): The counter... where they always are!
Little Nicholas: Oh yeah... we knew that! Thanks!
Maria (watches them run off): Right! Who's taking them in this morning?
Sam: Tatiana's Dmitri, she's the one picking them up though!
Maria: That works! (looks around) Where is everyone?
Tatiana (her and OA enter): Right here!
Maria (sits): Let's eat!
Sam: Eating is always good!
Maria: I have news!
Anastasia: What's up?
Maria: I saw her in the misty field again!
Sam: Maria... the other one i mean?
Maria: Yeah, her! We talked and she said she was happy that her parents were going to be in Little Tatiana's life... that's the way she wanted it to be! She's happy that Little Tatiana's going to be happy here! She did what she felt she had to do before completely moving on!
Olga: Making sure her daughter would be okay?
Maria: Yeah! She even told me her story!
Anastasia: Can you share it with us?
Maria (nods): Her and her parents got into a big fight about a man she was dating... one they didn't approve of! So she walked out and vowed never to return! However the guy she was dating was a jerk just like her parents thought he was! However they weren't going to welcome her back with open arms... so she went and stayed on the streets! Needing money to survive, she became a lady of the night! She got pregnant and went back to her parents asking them to take her in! Her father slammed the door in her face refusing to welcome her! So she returned to the streets and resumed what she was doing when she ran into him! She survived long enough to be taken to you Tatiana!
Tatiana: When she entered the office... she was dead on arrival!
Maria: She tried to fight it... she tried to fight to stay alive for her daughter but she lost in the end!
Olga: Here we all are now!
Maria: Yep... here we all are now!
Sam: Poor Maria... her parents should've taken her in! I mean, she was with child for God sake... it would have been one thing to punish her but they should never have taken it out on her child!
Maria: Things worked out in the end didn't they... i mean, they want to be a part of Little Tatiana's life now!
Sam: Yes they do... which is good on their part!
Tatiana: They now want to make up for lost time... time they could have spent with Maria but didn't!
Maria: I know and I'd no doubt she'll probably being watching over us with everyone else up there now! She's fully at peace now!
Sam: I would like to think so!
Tatiana: So would I!

TBC... Looks like Maria Krycek is fully at peace now!

[Tim]

Alexei and Kole walk in...

Alexei: What's going on?
Maria: Well. Explains.
Alexei: That's good to know.
Anastasia: I'm just glad Mashka is okay.
Maria: Yeah, it's good to be back.
Anastasia: Part of me was worried that you would take to the bottle.
Maria: No, not me. I remember when Alexei did it.
Alexei: Don't remind me.
Kole: That happened when I was ill. I remember you telling me about it.
Alexei: Yeah, and I don't like to think about it.
Olga: At least we didn't have to stage an intervention, like we did with Papa that time.
Tatiana: Oh yes, I remember that.
Alexei: To Kole. When our grandmother died, Papa blamed himself and started drinking. It took an intervention with us, Mama, Uncle Misha and Aunts Xenia and Olga, to set him straight.
Kole: Well, I'm glad you did. Anyway, I'm off to run some more tests on my ship. Leaves.
Olga: Where's she going?
Alexei: As I said, her ship is fixed. Now that Maria is being, we're planning a trip into Earth orbit. Sam said she can make sure no one sees us.
Anastasia: Sounds cool. Part of me wishes I could come.
Alexei: You can.
Anastasia: Huh?
Alexei: Kole's ship can fit ten people in all. That is why I'm here, who wants to come into orbit with us...


Anastasia (smiles): Well you should already suspect that i would love to come along!
Alexei (looks around): Anyone else? Anyone? (sighs) You guys still have some time just so you know... I'm going to go see how Kole is doing!
Tatiana: Alright!
Sam: Hold on... I just want you to know that I'm choosing to stay behind! Who knows though... maybe I'll change my mind or maybe not!
Maria: I'll probably sit the first one out... but perhaps the next one!
Alexei: Alright, I'll let her know that then! Anyone else have something to say before i actually go this time? (BP look to each other) Well... (no one responds) i take that as a no then!
Tatiana (to Sam after Alexei exits): Are you sure you don't want to come?
Sam: Are you?
Tatiana (smiles): I asked you first!
Sam: Touche! (smiles) I might... or not! I'll have to think about it! What about you Olga?
Olga: It sounds like fun actually... i may say yes but I'm not too sure just yet!
Tatiana: I feel the same!
Sandra (knocks, voice): Is anyone there?
Maria: I'll get the door! (goes and does so) Hey you guys!
Sandra: You still okay?
Maria (laughs): Yes and believe me when i say i don't ever want to be catatonic again!
Olga (comes in): Yes, because once again that's one of my jobs... thank you very much!
Maria (her and everyone else laugh): Shush Olga!
Olga: I'd say it but even though you don't have the Loch to push me into this time... I'll be smart!
Maria: Good choice!
Olga: For a minute after it happened i thought i was going to be the Loch Ness Monster's next meal!
Anastasia: Yeah and thankfully we found out Nessie was harmless!
Sophia: Okay what's going on?
Sam (enters): Nessie's real, a lot of other "things" are real... that answer your question?
Anya: I'm confused!
Tatiana (changes subject): Anyhow... how are things over there?
Anya: Awesome!
Sandra: Although we kind of miss being around you guys... i even miss being around Olga believe it or not!
Olga: I'd believe it... (smiles) I'm too miss able i do admit it!
Sam: Really now?
Olga (looks to Sam grinning): Must be something to do with being the oldest... right Sam?
Sam (laughs shaking her head at Olga): Don't even start there!
Olga: I can only try!
Sam: Yeah, we know!
Anastasia: Hey, how would you feel about traveling in space... Kole just got her ship fixed!
Sandra: Wouldn't there be a problem with that?
Maria: Not to worry... Sam will take care of that to protect history!
Sandra (looks to Sam): You can do that?
Sam: You'd be surprised... hell sometimes i even surprise myself with what i can do!
Anya: I want to go... (turns to Sophia) and Soph i will not let you say no on this!
Sophia (smiles): I wasn't going to... i want to go as well!
Sandra (thinks about it): Ah, why not?
Sam: So that's Kole, Alexei, the imp and Anya, Sophia, and Sandra... that's only six people so far which leaves four spots left! (looks to BP) Well?
Tatiana: Perhaps!
Olga: Same here!
Sam: We already know I'm not going... (winks and then walks away) or will I?
Tatiana (as they're stunned and confused by that last statement): What was that supposed to mean?
Olga: I haven't a clue!

TBC... So we only have some seats left as Maria is going to sit the first one out to be with Little Tatiana after everything that happened and the BP are undecided! Sam has a plan! What it is well you'll just have to wait and find out!


Meanwhile, Kole is in the ship...

Kole: To computer. NavComp voice test. Munro, Kathryn, Serial Number 294837
Computer: Identity confirmed.
Kole: Begin full system diagnostic
Computer: Beginning.
Alexei arrives.
Alexei: What's going on?
Kole: I'm just checking the NavComp, the Navigation Computer, to make sure it's okay. So, who's coming with us?
Alexei: Anastasia is, and I got a text on my way over, Anya, Sophia and Sandra want to come too.
Kole: What about the BP, Maria, and Sam?
Alexei: Maria has decided to sit this one out. Sam and the BP are sitting on the fence.
Kole: Well, we still have time.
Computer: Diagnostic completed, Major Munro. All systems functioning within established paramiters.
Kole: Good. Looks like navigation won't be a problem. Of course, at this point, we won't have to worry about crashing into another ship or satellite. We should have Earth orbit all to ourselves.


Back at the palace...

Olga: What is it, Tatiana?
Tatiana: I was just thinking how interesting it would be to see the affect of space travel on us, as a medical observer
Olga: So are you leaning towards going?
Tatiana: I am. What about you?
Olga: I still don't know. It sounds interesting, but what if something goes wrong?
Tatiana: Olga, Kole knows what shes doing. She did this for a living, remember. Besides, Sam will make sure we're safe.
Olga: Yeah, I guess. However, I'm still undecided.
Tatiana: Well I am. Pulls out her cell.


Back at the ship, Alexei's cell goes off..

Alexei: Answers. Yes. Oh, great. I'll tell her. Hangs up.
Kole: What is it?
Alexei: Tatiana has decided to come. She wants to be, in her words, a medical observer.
Kole: What about Olga?
Alexei: She's still undecided.
Kole: Well, there's still time.
Alexei: Yes, there is.


Almost a week later...
Tatiana: This is going to be fun!
Anastasia: I so agree!
Maria: Yeah, even though I'm not going on this first one!
Anastasia (Olga sighs): Well?
Olga (smiles): I think I'll go too!
Anastasia: Awesome!
Maria: What do you think Sam meant when she said she was not going or maybe she would... or whatever it is she said?
Olga: She's up to something again!
Sam (right behind Olga): I could be!
Olga (jumps): You scared me!
Sam: Oh like i didn't already know that!
Olga: Funny, very amusing!
Sam: I try hard, that's all i can say!
Maria: So, what did you mean when you said... (Sam smiles) what?
Sam: You'll see!
Maria: Well actually I won't this time!
Tatiana: Don't worry, when we find out what she meant then we'll fill you in!
Anastasia: Yeah, how's that?
Maria: That works!
Sam: So let's see how this goes... The BP, Anastasia, Anya, Sophia, Sandra, Alexei and Kole herself of course! That would make eight people with two spots still open!
Maria: You, maybe?
Sam: Nope but that doesn't mean i won't be around somewhere!
Maria (Sam smiles and walks away): What?
Alexei (enters): What's going on?
Anastasia: Sam's being confusing again! Anyhow, (nudges Olga) don't you have something to tell him?
Olga: Oh yes... yes, i have decided to come along!
Alexei: Cool! I bet Kole will be thrilled!
Maria: Where is Kole?
Alexei: Still working on her ship! We're taking a break so I'm going to get some food going!
Tatiana: That's sounds good! Enjoy yourselves!
Alexei: We will, well... are!
Anastasia (Alexei heads towards the kitchen, smiles): How sweet!
OTM (laughing): Oh imp!

Alexei comes downstairs with lemonade and sandwiches for him and Kole...

TBC... Scene continues with Kole and Alexei and of course he'll tell her about Olga! Soon they'll be up in orbit and they'll have a surprise visitor... nearby not in the ship! But you're going to have to wait and see what happens!

[Tim]

Alexei: Well, Olga is coming too.
Kole: Great, so that's all your sisters, except Maria. What about Sam?
Alexei: She's still being elusive.
Kole: Smiles. Sounds just like her. I can't wait to get up there. So much to see. Someday I must tell you about the Earth/Pluto mission in which..
Alexei: Pluto? What's Pluto!?
Kole: Duh! I forgot, Pluto won't be discovered until 1930!
Alexei: Is it a planet?
Kole: For seven decades, it will be considered the ninth planet yes, out beyond Neptune. However, in the first decade of the 21st Century, it will be reclassified as a dwarf planet. Turns out a few more dwarf planets will be discovered out there beyond Neptune, such as Eris, Haumea, and Makemake.
Alexei: Makemake!?
Kole: Hey, I didn't make those names up. In my opinion, they should have called one of them Yuggoth.
Alexei: Yuggoth?
Kole: You ever read H.P. Lovecraft?
Alexei: No, I haven't. I've heard of him, though. Olga has some of his books in her library.
Kole: Well, Lovecraft made up the Old Ones, some ancient powerful aliens that came to the Earth thousands of years ago. Cthulhu and Yog-Sothoth among them. They have an outpost on Yuggoth, which Lovecraft describes as a dark planet at the edge of our solar system. When Pluto is discovered, Lovecraft will say, in his story, Whisperer In Darkness, that Yuggoth is Pluto.
Alexei: Interesting. Sounds like a good story.
Kole: Yeah, but Lovecraft hasn't written this one yet.
Alexei: Well, I'll keep my eyes open for it.


When Alexei and Kole go upstairs, they find Nicholas and Alexandra there...

Alexei: Mama, Papa, when did you two get here?
Nicholas: Just now.
Alexandra: We heard about how Anastasia, Tatiana, and Olga are going into space with you.
Kole: Yes, they are.
Tatiana, Olga, and Anastasia arrive on the scene.
Olga: Don't try to talk us out of it, Mama.
Alexandra: Oh, I won't. I know you're all grown up now.
Nicholas: However...
Tatiana: Yes, Papa?
Nicholas: We heard that there is still room for two more.
Anastasia: You mean..
Alexandra: Yes, your father and I are coming along!


Alexei and Kole's apartment, a few weeks later. Alexei is reading when Kole comes in..

Alexei: Well..
Kole: Looks like our space flight is cancelled for the time being.
Alexei: More bad weather?
Kole: No, I'm grounded. Doctor's orders.
Alexei: By doctor you mean..
Kole: Tatiana, of course.
Alexei: Why.
Kole: I had another fainting spell. Alexei looks worried. It's nothing, Tatiana checked. However, she decided I was grounded for the rest of my pregnancy. I can see her point. I can't risk fainting at a crucial moment. I won't risk your safety, or the safety of your... our family.
Alexei: Are you sure?
Kole: Yeah, I am. In the military, the word of the Medical Officer is law when it comes to matters like this. The same applies here. Yawns. I'm going to lie down now. See you later. Kole goes into lie down.


Soon, Alexei goes to Anichkov Palace and sees OTMA..

Tatiana: If this is about Kole being grounded, I'm sorry, but I can't risk her flying when she might faint at any moment.
Alexei: It's not that. Kole's birthday is this Friday. The 28th of October.
Anastasia: Yeah, that's right.
Maria: It's her first birthday since she arrived here.
Alexei: Yeah, and I want to make it special.
Olga: You came to the right place. We'll get right on it.
Alexei: Thanks. Looks around. Where's Sam?
Tatiana: She went back to 2011 several weeks ago.
Alexei: Why?
Olga: She didn't say.
Alexei: You think she'll be back for Kole's birthday?
Maria: I don't know.
Anastasia: I hope she is. I miss her.
Maria: We all miss her, Nastya. I hope she's okay.


Tsarskoe Selo...

Alexandra: Nicky, did you hear. Kole's birthday is this Friday.
Nicholas: I see. Is a party being planned.
Alexandra: Yes, I just got off the phone with Tatiana. The girls are going to plan it.
Nicholas: That's good to know. Any word about Sam?
Alexandra: Shakes her head. No, no word at all.
Nicholas: This is very strange. She's never gone away for so long without calling us. I hope she's okay...



BTW: October 28th is also my birthday. Since Kole is my creation, I gave her the same birthday as me.

[Tim]

Anichkov Palace, October 28th, Alexei and Kole walk in..

All: SURPRISE!
Kole: Amazed. What!? Turns to Alexei. You knew about this.
Alexei: Grinning. Yeah, we've been planning this for days.
Kole: Aw, you shouldn't have.
Anastasia: Nonsense, you're part of our family, Kole.
Maria: I made the cake.
Kole: Smiles. I thought you would.
Nicholas and Alexandra walk up.
Nicholas: Happy Birthday, Kole.
Alexandra: From me too.
Kole: Thank you both.


The party gets under way..

Olga: So, Kole, how are you enjoying your party?
Kole: I'm loving it.
Tatiana: How old are you now, if you don't mind me asking.
Kole: No, I don't. I'm 31 now. Of course, technically speaking, I haven't even been born yet.
Dimitri M: Yeah, that is strange.
Dimitri C-B: Not something you hear every day. Of course, in this family, strange can be normal.
Anastasia: Strange can be normal. Never heard that before.
Maria: But it is true.
Tatiana: The children made something for you, Kole. It was an art project in school. Would you like to see it?
Kole: Yes, I would.
Tatiana: Right this way.
They go into the dining room where a huge banner says HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AUNT KOLE!
Kole: It's great, I love it!
Victoria: Thanks, Aunt Kole.
Little Alexandra: We're glad you like it.


Soon they are all seated at the table with the other guests, Dimitri P, Sablin, Rodionov, and others, but someone is missing...

Kole: Where's Sam?
Anastasia: We tried to reach her, Kole, but she's not answering her cell. It's like she's totally vanished.
Kole: I hope she's okay.
Olga: So do we all, Kole, but we figured this is what she'd want. For us to give you a party.
Kole: I know she would.
The meal is eaten and Maria comes out with the cake. Soon, the song is sung.

Happy Birthday to you.
Happy Birthday to you.
Happy Birthday dear Kole,
Happy Birthday to you!

Kole blows out the candles as the celebration continues...

[Tim]

Several days later, Tatiana is at work when...


Irina: Pokes her head in. Dr. Malama, the school is calling.
Tatiana: The school? Why?
Irina: They said your son is in trouble.
Tatiana: Dimitri!? Why? What happened?
Irina: They didn't say. They want you to go down there.
Tatiana: Tell them I'm coming.


At the school...

Principle: Thank you for coming, Dr. Malama.
Tatiana: I was told Dimitri is in trouble. Why?
Principle: He started a fight on the playground. He punched a boy. He won't say why. We called you here because of his status...
Tatiana: As I said, the children are to be treated no differently than any others.
Principle: Well, then, the standard punishment is a three day suspension.
Tatiana: I understand.


Anichkov Palace, Tatiana gets home with Little Dimitri...

Tatiana: Up to your room, young man! You're grounded for the rest of the week!
Little Dimitri: Sullen. Yes, Mama.
Tatiana: You think about what you have done. March!
Little Dimitri goes upstairs and Tatiana joins her sisters in the kitchen.
Olga: What happened?
Tatiana: He punched a boy on the play ground and got suspended. He still won't say why.
Maria: Are you going to punish him?
Tatiana: I have. He's grounded for the rest of the week. He'll only be allowed out of his room for meals.
Anastasia: I wonder why he punched that boy?
Tatiana: I'm going to find out.


Soon Tatiana is upstairs in Dimitri's room. She is tapping her foot in anger...

Tatiana: I'm waiting, Dimitri, why did you punch that boy!
Dimitri: I punched him because he was saying some bad things about Grandfather.
Tatiana: Such as?
Dimitri: He said grandfather was a bad leader, he called him Nicholas The Bloody. Mama, what's a pogrom?
Tatiana: Under her breath. Oh dear...


Meanwhile, at Alexei and Kole's...

Alexei: Kole, you ought to see this.
Kole: Puts down the magazine she had been reading. What is it?
Alexei: It's a letter from Sam.
Kole: Does it say why she didn't come to my birthday.
Alexei: Yeah, it does. I was pretty mad at her for that. However, after reading this, I have changed my mind.
Kole: Is it address to you, or me?
Alexei: Actually it's to both of us. Here.
He shows the letter to Kole, here is what it says...

To Alexei and Kole...

First of all, Kole, I am so sorry that I couldn't make it to your birthday. I was hoping I could, but events beyond my control prevented me from doing so. Which brings me to my next point.

I'm afraid something has happened here in 2011, and it requires my remaining here for the time being. At this point, I cannot say when, or if I will return. I just hope I will. I cannot say how much I am going to miss you. I hope to be back when your baby is born, but I can't make any promises right now.

Until we meet again, I'll be keeping you in my thoughts.


Your friend,

Sam

Kole: My God, what do you think has happened to her?
Alexei: I don't know. She doesn't say, however, it must be something big. I wonder if the others got any letters like this.


Tsarskoe Selo...

Alexandra: Comes into the study. Nicky, did you see this!?
Nicholas: What is it?
Alexandra: Holds up the letter from Sam. It's from Sam. She says that she may not be coming back!
Nicholas: Let me see that. Reads the letter. Oh my, this sounds back. At least it explains why she didn't make it to Kole's birthday.
Alexandra: What has happened in 2011 that she cannot come back here?
Nicholas: I don't know, Alix,I just don't know.


Anichkov Palace, OTMA and their guys are talking...

Tatiana: And I just made some excuse and got out of the bedroom as fast as I could.
Dimitri M: You want me to talk to Little Dimitri?
Tatiana: No, this is something I have to do myself.
Olga: Are you sure, Tanya.
Tatiana: Yes, Olga, I'm sure. He had no right to punch that boy, even if that boy brought up the unpleasant truth about the past.
Anastasia: Geez, the Old Empire has been dead for years, yet the ghosts remain.
Maria: Well, the pogroms did happen, and we can't deny that.
Ivan S: Yeah, we can't keep our children shielded from the truth forever. It was bound to come out.
Ivan K: Perhaps we better tell all the children the truth. Better they hear it from us, rather than a strange, or, God forbid, the National Intruder.
Tatiana: I know. God, I just wish Sam were here. She's good at stuff like that.
Dimitri C-B: Enters holding a letter. Well, that might be a problem.
Olga: What's that you have there?
Dimitri C-B: A letter from Sam. You better take a look at it.
He puts it down on the table and they all read it...

To OTMA and their guys...

This is the hardest letter I had to write, and I wish I didn't have to. As you all know, I didn't make it to Kole's birthday, and I have sent her and Alexei a letter apologizing for that. I have also sent a letter to Nicky and Alix. However, I have saved the hardest for last. Here it is.

Something has happened here in 2011, something that I need to handle. Mystic Falls is under attack by Vampire Hunters. We're engaged in all out war. I need to stay here and help my friends fight this unprovoked attack against them. I wish I could say more, however, I can't. Needless to say, these events will keep me here in 2011 for the foreseeable future. Right now, I can't say when or if I will return.

I just want to see how much I will miss all of you. Living with you all has been the best time of my life. You are the family I never had, and I will always treasure that. I hope that some day, I can be part of your lives again.

Olga, I know your birthday is coming up. If I can't make it back, I'll say Happy Birthday now.

I love you all, and I sincerely wish that we'll be together again someday.

With love...

Sam


Alexei and Kole soon arrive, followed by Nicholas and Alexandra...

Alexei: Did all of you get a letter from Sam?
Tatiana: Yes, we did. She said she sent you one.
Kole: She did, apologizing for not coming to my birthday.
Nicholas: Alix and I got one too.
Anastasia: This war must really be bad, if she felt she had to write to all of us.
Nicholas: War?
Anastasia: Yes. Explains.
Alexandra: Oh dear...
Maria: Well, until she contacts us again, we can only wait.
Olga: Still why didn't she ask us for help?
Tatiana: Well, Olga, maybe she felt we couldn't help.
Maria: Maybe we can go to the future ourselves.
Anastasia: Sorry, Mashka, I've already tried. Nothing.
Ivan K: So we're cut off.
Kole: Well, now what?
Nicholas: Now nothing. There is nothing we can do now except wait until Sam contacts us again.
Alexandra: But Nicky, what if she never comes back?
Nicholas: Then we'll have to mourn her and move on.
Maria: Mourn her. She's not dead.
Olga: As far as we know, that is.
Tatiana: Anyway, Papa, I'm glad you're here. We have a problem with Little Dimitri.
Nicholas: What problem.
Tatiana: Well. Explains.
Nicholas: Oh, I see.
Tatiana: We were wondering how to handle it, Papa.
Nicholas: Can I speak to Little Dimitri. I think it's best he hears it from me.
Tatiana: Okay, Papa, if you think it will help.


So, Nicholas goes up to see Little Dimitri...

Little Dimitri: Grandfather!
Nicholas: Hello, Dimitri, I hear you got in trouble.
Little Dimitri: Yes, I punched a boy at school.
Nicholas: Why?
Little Dimitri: Because he said bad things about you. He said you were an auto...auto...
Nicholas: An autocrat?
Little Dimitri: Yes, that's what he said. What's an autocrat, Grandfather.
Nicholas: Sits down. Well, to put it simply, it's a leader who thinks he rules because God rules through him.
Little Dimitri: That's stupid. God doesn't work that way.
Nicholas: Laughs. I know, at least I know that now. But for a long time, I didn't.
Little Dimitri: When was this?
Nicholas: Before you were born. I thought it was the right way to rule because that is what my father taught me. However, I don't think that way anymore.
Little Dimitri: So was that boy right? Were you a bad ruler, Grandfather?
Nicholas: Well, Dimitri, that's hard to explain. I'll just say I made some mistakes, and if I could do it all again, I would have made some changes. However, Dimitri, what you have to know is that your grandfather is not like that anymore.
Little Dimitri: I know. Most of the kids at my school say you're great. It was just that one boy that I punched that didn't.
Nicholas: Well, still, you shouldn't have punched him, although part of me can understand why you did.
Little Dimitri: I wanted to stop him saying those things about you.
Nicholas: I know. However, I can't promise that you won't hear other things about me, and your grandmother, as the years pass. Just remember, that is not how it is anymore.
Little Dimitri: I will, Grandfather.


A short time later...

Olga: Look, here comes Papa.
Tatiana: Papa, how did it go?
Nicholas: I think I got him to understand. Of course, I couldn't explain the whole story, he's much too young.
Tatiana: When he's older, I'll explain.
Alexandra smiles.
Tatiana: What is it, Mama?
Alexandra: I'm just proud of you, you're a great mother, Tatiana.
Dimitri M: Amen.
Nicholas: Hopefully, this will smooth things over for now.
Tatiana: I agree, Papa.

[Tim]

Tsarskoe Selo, December 25th, 1926


Nicholas and Alexandra are looking at the Christmas tree. It is brightly decorated with lights and there are presents under it.


Nicholas: Well, Alix, what do you think?
Alexandra: It’s beautiful, Nicky. I’m sure they’ll love it.
A knock is heard.
Nicholas: Speaking of which. Goes to answer the door. OTMA, their husbands, and children are there.
Children: As they run inside. Hi Grandfather!
Tatiana: Don’t run so fast!
Olga: Come back and give your grandfather a proper hello.
Nicholas: Smiles. It’s okay, they’re just exited
Anastasia: I know, Mashka and I saw it this morning. At home and at Tatiana’s Center.
Maria: Nastya and I handed out presents in the children’s ward. It was wonderful to see those little faces light up.
Alexandra: Walks up. The children are waiting at the Christmas tree.
Nicholas: I can well imagine.
Maria: They’re all exited, Papa, even Little Tatiana. She keeps asking about “Sandy Clost”.
Everyone laughs.
At that point, Alexei and Kole arrive.
Alexei: Are we late?
Dimitri M: No, you’re right on time.
Kole: That’s good to know.
Tatiana looks at Kole’s stomach, her pregnancy is starting to show.
Tatiana: How are you feeling, Kole?
Kole: Smiles. I’m fine, Tatiana.
Dimitri M: Hey, doc, take the day off.
Dimitri C-B: Yeah, it’s Christmas, after all.
Tatiana: Sorry, habit.

Later, Christmas dinner is served. Joining them are Dimitri P, Sablin, Rodionov, Anya, Sophia, Sandra, Nagorney, Kerensky, Natalia, and Vlad. The children are seated at the children's table.

Ivan S: Mashka, you’ve done it again.
Ivan K: Yeah, this meal is great.
Maria: Well, I had some help. Looks at Anya, Sophia, and Sandra. Thank you all.
Anya: No problem.
Sophia: We were glad to help.
Sandra: For all of you taking me in, I owe you.
Alexei: To Nagorney. I’m glad you were able to get leave this Christmas.
Nagorney: Me too.
Nicholas stands up.
Tatiana: Looks like Papa has something to say.
Anastasia: Well, I hope it’s not too long. I’m starved.
Tatiana: Nastya!
Anastasia: Well, I am.
Nicholas: Clears his throat. Well, it’s been quite a year, we’ve had our trials and tribulations. However, I like to think we’ve come through it stronger. Here’s to all of you on this blessed holiday.
Alexandra: And here’s to those who aren’t here to share it with us.
Sablin and Rodionov: Yurovsky.
Dimitri P: And let’s not forget our favourite Witch Woman, Samantha Cohen.
All: Amen.
Nicholas: Well, wherever she is, I’m sure Sam would like us to have a great Christmas, so let’s just do that. Merry Christmas.
All: MERRY CHRISTMAS!


January 1, 1927, breakfast time at Anichkov Palace...


Anastasia: Happy New Year to all.
Maria: Yeah, it was fun last night.
Tatiana: I'm glad we kept it booze free.
Olga: Me too.
The guys come in.
Tatiana: There you all are.
Dimitri M: Sorry, we've just realized something.
Tatiana: Which is?
Dimitri C-B: This February will be the tenth anniversary of the revolution.
Maria: Yeah, that's right.
Anastasia: Where did the time go?
Ivan K: Apparently, the Duma is planning to honour it.
Maria: Well, I'm all for it. Olga looks like she's about to object, but Maria continues on. After all, without the revolution, I would never have met my husband.
Anastasia: Me too. So some good did come out of it after all.
Olga: Yeah, I guess it did.

[Tim]

Later, Tatiana is examining Olga in the Infirmary...

Tatiana: I can tell you're not too thrilled about this.
Olga: Why should I be. Okay, I'm glad things worked out for Mashka and Nastya, but we could have died there.
Tatiana: But we didn't. Olga, stop focusing on the bad things and try for the good.
Olga: I will, but I can't promise anything. So, Doc, how am I?
Tatiana: You're fine and so is your baby.
Olga: That's good to know. Kole comes in. I see our other pregnant wife is here. See you both later. Leaves.
Kole: Well, here I am.
Tatiana: Good. Examines Kole.
Kole: Well?
Tatiana: Well, you and your baby are fine.
Kole: Thank God. Why did Olga look so grim just now?
Tatiana: Because this year is the tenth anniversary of the revolution.
Kole: Alexei mentioned that to me this morning. I missed a lot.
Tatiana: Yes, you did. However, you were lucky to arrive here when you did.
Kole: Yeah, I guess I am.


Tsarskoe Selo...

Alexandra: Nicky, who was that on the phone?
Nicholas: Kerensky. He wants to know what we think of honouring the tenth anniversary of the revolution.
Alexandra: What did you tell him?
Nicholas: Well...
At that point, I grim faced Castiel appears.
Alexandra: Better hold that thought, Nicky.
Nicholas: What? Sees Castiel. Oh, what is it?
Castiel: I have news...
Alexandra: Does it concern Sam?
Castiel: Yes, it does. It's.. It's not good.
Nicholas: What is it? What's happened?
Castiel: I'd rather tell all of you.


Later, at Anichkov Palace, OTMA, their husbands, Alexei and Kole are waiting...

Tatiana: What's going on?
Maria: We don't know. Mama called and said she and Papa we on their way over with Castiel. They say he has news concerning Sam.
Kole: Maybe it's good news.
Maria: I don't know about that, Kole. From what Mama said, Castiel looked pretty grim.
Alexei: Well, we'll know soon, they're here.
Nicholas and Alexandra come in with Castiel. Nicky and Alix join the others at the table.
Olga: Well, don't keep us in suspense. What's happened to Sam? Where is she?
Castiel: Samantha Cohen is in a coma.
Maria: A coma! What happened?
Castiel: Some Vampire Hunters confronted Sam in an abandoned building. Soon after, the building exploded. Apparently, after the explosion, Sam managed to crawl out of the wreckage, but that took all the strength she had left. I then took matters into my own hands.
Alexandra: What does that mean?
Castiel: Looks at Tatiana. I brought her back to this time and then took her to your Center.
At that point, Tatiana’s cells goes off.
Tatiana: Answers. Yes?
Irina: On phone. Dr. Malama, your friend, Samantha Cohen is here. A man just admitted her.
Tatiana: Looks at Castiel. Let me guess. Describes Castiel.
Irina: Yes, that’s him. How did you know?
Tatiana: Never mind that now. Where is Sam exactly?
Irina: In one of the private rooms.
Tatiana: Thank you, Irina. We’ll be there shortly. Hangs up.
Castiel: There is one more thing you all should know.
Nicholas: What is it?
Castiel: Before the building blew up, Sam managed to destroy the Vampire Hunters that were there, but in so doing, she used up all her witch and vampire powers forever.
Olga: Meaning?
Castiel: Sam is just a normal human now. She's no longer a witch or a vampire.
Anastasia: Whoa. That will be some adjustment for her to make.
Maria: Assuming she wakes up at all.
Castiel: Of course, losing her powers left her defenseless against all the Vampire Hunters in her time. That is why I brought her back to this time, she's much safer here in 1927 than she would be in 2011.
I've already informed her family. They support my decision because they know she's safer back here. I'll leave her in your care now. Vanishes.
Tatiana: Sam is at the Center, as he said.
Nicholas: Let’s go there.
Olga: I’ll ask Vlad if he can watch the children while we’re gone.
Kole: Good idea.


Later, at the Center, everyone is waiting outside Sam’s room...

Olga: What is taking Tatiana so long in there?
Kole: Olga, give her a chance.
Alexei: Yeah, she’s the doctor around here, after all.
Olga: Yeah, yeah, I know.
Maria: Some things never change.
Anastasia: Tell me about it.
Tatiana comes out of the room..
Alexandra: Well, how is she?
Tatiana: I wish I had better news, but her EEG readings are almost nothing.
Anastasia: Huh? Could you repeat that in plain English?
Tatiana: Sorry, I meant that she has virtually no higher brain activity.
Nicholas: Are you saying she’s brain dead?
Tatiana: No, Papa, there is some activity, but it shows she’s deep in coma.
Olga: When will she wake up?
Tatiana: She could wake up tomorrow, or twenty years from now. There is no way to tell.
Nicholas: And there is no way for you to wake her up?
Tatiana: Sadly shakes her head. No, Papa. I can make sure she gets fed and is comfortable, but waking her up is beyond my abilities. Only time will tell if that happens.
Maria: Oh this sucks on so many levels.
Anastasia: Yeah, we finally get Sam back, but in a way she’s as far away as ever.
Kole: Well, at least we know where she is now.
Alexei: Yeah, and now all we can do is wait.
Maria: Something just occurred to me.
Olga: What is it, Mashka.
Maria: If Sam no longer has any powers, that means she can't time travel. She can never get back to her own time.
Anastasia: You speak like that's a bad thing.
Tatiana: Let's just see if she comes out of this coma, then we'll worry telling her that she's here for good...



A few months later...


Kole is in the kitchen of her and Alexei's apartment, when...

Kole: Clutches her stomach. Ow! Ow!
Alexei: Kole, are you okay?
Kole: I.... Ow! Suddenly, her water breaks. Uh oh!
Alexei: I’ll get you to Tatiana’s Center!


Soon, at the Center...

Kole: OH GOD! MAKE IT STOP! GIVE ME DRUGS!!
Alexei: Kole, it’s okay.
Kole: SHUT UP, ALEXEI! YOU TRY TO HAVE A BABY, THEN YOU CAN TALK!
Tatiana: Easy, Kole, it’s coming.
Kole: WHEN? GAHHHH, GET IT OUT OF ME! GET IT OUT NOW!
Tatiana: Head, I see the head, it shouldn't be long now.


In the waiting room...

Anastasia: Wow, Kole’s baby is here.
Maria: Yeah, another niece or nephew to add to the list.
Olga: I guess I’m next. Looks down at her belly.
Anastasia: Yeah, I guess little Alice won’t be long now.
Nicholas and Alexandra arrive.
Nicholas: What’s the situation.
Alexandra: Did we miss anything?
Maria: No, Tatiana is still in there.
Soon, Tatiana comes out.
Nicholas: Well?
Tatiana: Smiles. It’s a girl.
Alexandra: Can we come in?
Tatiana: Yes, but just for a few moments.


Soon they are all in with Alexei and Kole. Kole is holding their new daughter in her arms...

Alexandra: She’s beautiful.
Nicholas: Have you decided on a name yet?
Kole: Yes, we have.
Alexei: We’re going to call her Marie.
Anastasia: In honour of our grandmother.
Alexei: That’s right.
Nicholas: I’m sure she’s watching and is happy.
Olga: I’m sure she is.
Tatiana: Congratulations on your first child, Alexei and Kole.
Alexei and Kole together: Thank you.


A few days later, Alexei and Kole, who is holding little Marie, are walking down the corridor of the Center...

Alexei: Well, here we are.
Kole: Yeah, let's go in.
They enter Sam's room. Sam is lying in bed, hooked up to a bunch of tubes and monitors. Tatiana is there.
Tatiana: What brings you two here?
Kole: I wanted to tell Sam about little Marie.
Alexei: We felt she should know.
Tatiana: I don't see any harm in it, however, I doubt Sam will be hearing you.
Alexei: Still no change?
Tatiana: Shakes her head. No, she's the same as the day she was admitted. Part of me...
Kole: What is it, Tatiana?
Tatiana: Don't tell Olga or the Little Pair this, but part of me is beginning to lose hope that Sam will ever come out of this coma. I've been monitoring her condition since she got here, and there is no sign that she's even close to waking up.
Alexei: But there must be a chance. Surely after all she's been through, to just lie there like that, it doesn't seem fair.
Tatiana: No, it doesn't.
Kole: Walks up to Sam's bed, holding little Marie. Sam, this is Marie. Yes, Alexei and I had our baby. I would love for you to meet her, but first you have to wake up.
Alexei: To Tatiana. Anything.
Tatiana just looks at the monitors and sadly shakes her head.
Kole: Well, we will just have to keep our hopes up.
Tatiana: Easier said than done, Kole....


Yay! Alexei and Kole’s baby is finally here! Say hello to little Marie


A week later, Dimitri C-B comes running into the Center, helping Olga.

Tatiana: I see her water finally broke.
Olga: GAHHHHH! Get Alice out of me. GET HER OUT NOW!!
Dimitri C-B: Just hang on, Olga.
Tatiana: Quick, we don’t have much time, I see.


Hours later, everyone is in Olga’s room. Olga is holding little Alice in her arms.

Nicholas: Another grandchild joins our family.
Alexandra: She’s beautiful, Olga.
Olga: Thanks, Mama.
Tatiana: Took a while to get her out, she was stubborn.
Anastasia: Sounds like her mother.
Maria: That is so true.
Olga: Oh hush, you two. I’m just glad she’s here.
Alexei: And we’re all here to see her.
Kole: Most of us, that is.
Olga: I know. I was thinking of taking Alice down to Sam’s room later, to show her.
Kole: I did the same with Marie. Didn’t do much good, it seems.
Tatiana: Actually that may not be the case.
Nicholas: What do you mean?
Tatiana: When I checked Sam’s charts later, I saw a spike in brain activity when Kole was showing her Marie.
Kole: You mean Sam heard me?
Tatiana: Not on a conscious level, but I think you did reach part of her somehow.
Anastasia: So there may be hope after all.
Olga: Then I will take Alice down. We’ll see if it has the same reaction.
Nicholas: All we can do is hope. However, now let us welcome a new life into our family...

[Tim]

As the year 1928 dawned, the OTMAA, their spouses, and children went on with their lives. It was a happy time, save for the fact that Sam was still in a deep coma, and showed no signs of ever coming out of it.

Then came the day of their long delayed flight into space. Leaving their children and babies in the care of their Uncle Misha and Aunt Xenia, Olga, Tatiana, Maria, Anastasia, and Alexei were at the air base outside of St. Petersburg. Also there were Dimitri C-B, Dimitri M, Ivan S., and Ivan K. They watch as Kole comes out her shuttle.

Kole: Are you all ready?
Alexei: I am. Turns to the others. Are you all sure about this?
Anastasia: I am.
Ivan K: Whatever the Imp wants, I want.
Anastasia: Oh you!
Tatiana: Well, I’ve medically cleared everyone.
At that point, Nicholas and Alexandra arrive.
Nicholas: We’re not late, I hope.
Olga: No, Papa, you’re right on time.
Dimitri C-B: We’re just about to get aboard.
Alexandra: Good.
Kole: All aboard!


The family all board the shuttle. Kole sits in the pilot’s seat, and Alexei sits in the empty seat beside her and watch as Kole begins pre-flight checks.

Alexei: How does it look?
Kole: Good so far.


Meanwhile, in the back, the others make a discovery. The comatose form of Sam is slumped in the back seat.

Dimitri M: How did she get here?
Tatiana: Closing her cell phone. I don’t know, but Irina just said she vanished from the Center a few moments ago.
Maria: Hey, there’s a note here? Picks it up.
Nicholas: What does it say?
Maria: Well. Begins to read the note:

Dear Friends:

I know this may come as a surprise to you all, but you must take Ms. Cohen on this trip. I wish I could go into more detail, but I’m afraid I can’t. However, I think you all will be grateful for this. Good luck.
Sincerely,

Castiel

Anastasia: Well, if it’s Castiel, then I guess he knows what he's talking about.
Olga: To Tatiana. Is she okay to travel.
Tatiana: Checks Sam over. She seems to be. I guess there is no harm in her coming.
Alexei: Comes back to see what is going on. How did Sam get here?
Maria: Castiel brought her. Shows Alexei the note. He says we have to take Sam along.
Alexei: But she’s in a coma, she won’t see anything!
Nicholas: Still, I feel that we should take her.
Alexandra: I feel the same way.
Alexei: Okay, I’ll tell Kole.

Soon...

Kole: Is everyone ready back there?
Everyone says they are.
Kole: Good, here we go. She works the controls and the shuttle begins to take off. You all might feel a slight wrenching, but don’t worry. It will pass.
Alexei: I’m glad you were okay with Sam coming.
Kole: Well, Tatiana was okay with it, and she’s the doctor around here. Still, I don’t see the point, it’s not like Sam will see anything.
Alexei: I know, but Castiel seemed adamant in that note he left.


When the shuttle leaves Earth’s gravity...

Anastasia: Whoaaaa! I’m floating.
Maria: This is so cool.
Kole: Smiles. Welcome to zero gravity. We’re in orbit over Russia, if you all want to take a look.
The I.F. looks down at Russia, on the Earth.
Nicholas: It’s incredible.
Alexandra: I agree, Nicky.
Anastasia: H.G. Wells and Jules Verne, eat your hearts out!
Dimitri M: Tatiana..
Tatiana: Smiles. Don’t worry, Dimitri, I’m fine. This is wonderful.
Olga: Looking at Russia. It looks so small from up here.
Dimitri C-B: Yes, but you look at beautiful as ever.
Olga: Blushes. Oh Dimitri..
Anastasia: Oh, get a room, you two.
Olga: Little hard to do up here, Nastya!
Kole: To everyone. I’m setting a course for the Moon now. We’ll orbit it a few times, and then return to Earth.


When the shuttle reaches the Moon...

Kole: In just forty-one years, Apollo 11 will land here and Neil Armstrong will be the first man to set foot on the Moon. He’ll utter the famous words: “That’s one small step for Man, one giant leap for Mankind.”
Alexei: And more will follow, including you, Kole.
Kole: Yes, and I’m grateful. Had I not entered the space program, I would never have ended up back here in the 1920's, and met you.
Alexei just smiles.

Suddenly...

Anastasia: Hey, everyone, come here!
Maria: What is it, Nastya?
Anastasia: It’s Sam, I think she’s waking up!
Tatiana: Let me see. Checks. Nastya’s right. Sam’s waking up.
Ivan S: So that’s what Castiel meant. This trip would wake Sam up.
Ivan K: He knew, but he just couldn’t tell us.
Sam opens her eyes.
Olga: She’s back with us.
Sam: Looks around. What did I miss?
Everyone just laughs, glad that their longtime friend is awake.
Nicholas: We’ll explain later, Sam. Right now just enjoy the ride?
Sam: Ride? Where on Earth are we?
Anastasia: The question you should be asking is where OFF Earth are we!
Sam smiles as she realizes where they are.


In the cockpit...

Alexei: Kole, did you hear, Sam's awake!
Kole: I guess that calls for some music. Punches a button and soon the music starts.
Alexei: What music is that?
Kole: The theme from 2001: A Space Odyssey. I thought it would be fitting for this trip.
The shuttle soars through space as the classic piece of music continues, showing the the future, bad and good, lay ahead for all of them...




The story continues in Days Of OTMA's Live: The Revival

Here

or

Here