Days Of OTMA's Lives: The Revival

[Tim]

**This bit was written by Wakas and edited by me.**


Anichkov Palace...

Sam: Gavriil, I made an application to adopt you and...
Gavriil Adopt me? Wow! So you were serious when you said you wanted me.
Sam: Yes, I was serious.
Gavriil: I thought it was just the same words I'd heard before. Well, I was wrong.
Sam: Gavriil, I’m not like the people you met before. I wouldn't say something that I don’t mean.
Gavriil: I see that now. I’m sorry that I didn't trust you.
Sam: After the bad experiences you had with foster families, it’s understandable. Anyway, the adoption agency accepted my request. They’re going to send a case worker here to interview me, you and the others.
Gavriil: Thank you, Sam. Gives her a big hug. Thank you so much.
Sam: Wraps her arms around him. You’re welcome, Gavriil. I’m happy to do that for you.


Meanwhile, Kerensky calls Olga...

Kerensky: Voice. Your father was supposed to go on a diplomatic trip to Romania to maintain friendly relations country. There were some tensions in the past between Russia and Romania, if you remember.
Olga: I do. It was that idiot, Carol’s, fault.
Kerensky: Be that as it may, since your father can’t make it...
Olga: I'll have to do it. Fantastic, I’m thrilled! First that tabloid story and then I learn that I’ll have to endure Carol again. You've just made my day.
Kerensky: I’m aware that he and you don’t get along, but this trip is important and...
Olga: I get it. Alright, you win. I will go to Romania, but I’m doing this under protest.
Kerensky: Great! I will arrange everything for your trip. If you need any further information, call me.

[Tim]

Later, Anichkov Palace, at dinner. Olga, Dimitri C-B, Alexei and Kole are present...

Olga: I have some news.
Tatiana: What is it, Olga?
Olga: Apparently, Papa was supposed to go on a trip to Romania.
Alexandra: That's right, he was. Clearly, he can't go now.
Olga: Yeah, Mama, so I have to go in his place. Kerensky informed me of this fact a few hours ago.
Alexandra: How do you feel about it, Olga?
Olga: Oh, I know I have to go, however...
Maria: You don't want to see Carol again.
Olga: Considering what he did the last time I saw him, I'd say yes.
Dimitri C-B: Don't worry, Olga, if he puts his grubby paws on you again, I'll punch his lights now, like I did before.
Anastasia: That was so cool.
Alexandra: Yes, but it doesn't look good to go around slugging the Prince of another country, even if he deserves it.
Olga: Which he did. I'm a married woman, after all.
Tatiana: When do you leave, Olga?
Olga: I don't know. Kerensky is still working out the details of my itinerary with the Romanian government. I imagine when that is worked out, he'll let me know.
Alexandra: Don't worry, Olga, you'll do fine. Not all of them are like Carol.
Olga: I know, Mama.
Kole: I'd like to come, if I can. I've always wanted to visit the homeland of Count Dracula. You should see the movies they made from that book.
Anastasia: Maybe Sam can conjure... Whoops, I forgot she can't do that anymore.
Maria: Speaking of Sam, where is she?
Anastasia: She took Gavriil to McDonald's. Apparently, he was curious about Big Macs.
Maria: That's good. When the case worker comes, we want to show them a happy new family in the making.


The next day, at the air base outside St. Petersburg, Kole is sitting in her shuttle...

Alexei: Arrives. There you are.
Kole: Sorry about that. I just wanted to come here and think.
Alexei: You want to go back into space again.
Kole: Yeah, I would.
Alexei: I don't know, Kole. I mean you being pregnant again.
Kole: I know, and I wouldn't dream of doing this unless Tatiana cleared me first. I can't take any chances. It's just that...
Alexei: Yes.
Kole: You remember what it was like when I took us all up into space. How it felt.
Alexei: Yeah, that was cool. I never thought I'd see the Earth from orbit. Russia looked so small.
Kole: I felt the same way the first time I went up. It felt liberating to be free of Earth's gravity, even if it was only for a short time. I would like to feel that way again.
Alexei: I'm heading for the Center to see Papa now. While I'm there, I'll talk to Tatiana and see what she says.
Kole: Smiles. Thank you, Alexei.


Back at Anichkov, Sam gets a visitor, Castiel...

Sam: Where the hell have you been?
Castiel: I've been busy in matters I can't discuss.
Sam: How are things back in 2011?
Castiel: If you're wondering about the Vampire Hunters, then yes, they're still after you. Of course, most of them don't know where you are, and have no way of reaching you even if they did.
Sam: Except Lothos.
Castiel: That's why I'm here, Sam. Lothos knows about that boy you're planning to adopt.
Sam: Gavriil? He knows about... Of course Lothos would know, he lives in the future, after all. He can look it up. Cas, what's going on? What is this about Gavriil?
Castiel: There are rumours that Lothos is planning another attack against you, and he might target Gavriil too. He knows how much Gavriil means to you.
Sam: What!? If that son of a bitch even touches Gavriil...
Castiel: That's all I know, Sam. All I can say is be on your guard. Now, I must go. Vanishes.
Sam: Thinking. Lothos, if you so much as look at Gavriil the wrong way, then, powers or no powers, I will make you suffer!

[Tim]

**This bit was written by Wakas and edited by me.**


Meanwhile Olga is on the phone with Kerensky...

Kerensky: I have your departure date. It’s the 13th.
Olga: That’s in eight days, right?
Kerensky: Yes. And I think it’d be nice if you brought your son, Alexander, with you. Two Heirs will prove that the future of Russia is solid. Even if the Tsar is a figurehead, the monarchy still has a lot of prestige. This will help to strengthen our alliance with Romania.
Olga: I had already planned to bring my whole family. My husband of course, and my children.
Kerensky: Excellent. You’ll leave on the Standart to Constanta. I’ll send you the rest of the itinerary by mail.
Olga: The Standart? And Constanta? It brings back memories of a certain summer in 1914...


Later Sam is talking to OTMA, Kole and Alexei, the two Dimitri’s and Ivan S...

Sam: Explains about Castiel's warning. We could hide Gavriil at your Aunt Elisabeth's nunnery until Lothos is out of the way. What do you all think?
Ivan S: Sounds a good plan. That son of a bitch won’t think to look for Gavriil there.
Maria: I agree. Gavriil would be safe there.
Tatiana: I second that.
Ivan K: Steps in. Sam, the Case Worker is here. She wants to see you.
Sam: I’m coming straight away. To the others. Can you keep an eye on Gavriil in the meantime?
Dimitri M: Sure, we won’t take our eyes off him.
Sam: Thanks.


Soon...

Case Worker: So you have four children?
Sam: I do. They’re living with my family.
Case Worker: How are you involved in their education?
Sam: Actually, I don’t see them very often.
Case Worker: What do you mean? You're playing no part in their upbringing at all?
Sam: Yes… It’s more or less that.
Case Worker: I see. Do you have a phone number where I can reach them? It's just a routine procedure.
Sam: Er… You can’t contact them, they’re not living in... In this country. They’re in San Francisco.
Case Worker: Without indiscretion. Why do you live here in Russia while they are in the U.S.?
Sam: Well… It’s... Because of my work.
Case Worker: You just told me you were unemployed.
Sam: I am. I had a job before, I meant to say.
Case Worker: A job of what kind?
Sam: Thinking. Dammit, this woman is really intrusive. Aloud. Protection of individuals. I was somewhat of a body guard.
Case Worker: Okay. To get back to Gavriil, how do you think you will manage to give him a good home life?
Sam: I’ll see to him day by day. I have no definite plan.
Case Worker: Mrs. Cohen, please allow me to speak my mind. If it depended solely on me, your adoption request would have been rejected.
Sam: How so?
Case Worker: Be honest toward yourself and you’ll see you’re not prepared for to take on the burden of adopting a child. You’re the kind of person who flees from such responsibility, considering the way you were a mother for your own children.
Sam: That’s...
Case Worker: However, your demand has already been accepted. I have no power in such circumstances.


Later...

Anastasia: So, did the interview go well?
Sam: It was awful. The Case Worker is with Gavriil at this moment. Anyway, I’m going to look into your case of lawsuit against the National Intruder now. The hearing is in a few days and I've got a lot of work to do to prepare.
Anastasia: I’m glad you agreed to help us.
Sam: You’re welcome. That’s the only job I’m good at anyway.
Maria: What’s up with you, Sam?
Sam: That woman is right. I messed up with my own children, I will mess up with Gavriil...

[Tim]

Maria: Sam, don't talk like that. What the hell does that woman know?
Anastasia: Yeah, she's known you for what, half-an-hour? We've known you our whole lives. We believe in you, Sam. You can raise Gavriil as your own son.
Maria: You WILL raise him, and you'll be a wonderful mother to him.
Sam: Yeah, but when she started grilling me about my family, about why I wasn't in contact with them...
Anastasia: Sam, what were you going to say to her? That the reason you're not in touch with your family is because they're nearly a century in the future from now? Can you imagine how that would sound?
Sam: I guess I sometimes forget that most people in the world don't know about magic.
Maria: Exactly. You have no reason to feel bad why you couldn't answer those questions. She would never have believed you anyway, had you told her the truth.
Sam: Little Pair, you both speak words of wisdom. Besides, the Case Worker told me that the final decision does not rest with her. She told me my application to adopt Gavriil has already been accepted.
Anastasia: Well, there you go then.
Sam: Let's go find Gavriil. I want to see how his part of the interview went.


Meanwhile, in the Infirmary...

Tatiana: Well, Kole, I have good news.
Kole: Which is?
Tatiana: Your blood work checks out. If you want to go into space again, I'm medically clearing you.
Kole: That's great news. Thanks, Tatiana.


And so...

Alexei: So, Tatiana cleared you.
Kole: She did. I'm good to go.
Alexei: You mean we're good to go.
Kole: Alexei...
Alexei: Kole, you don't think I'm going to let my wife do that alone, do you.
Kole: Well, it's just that I've been trained for this kind of thing.
Alexei: Hey, we didn't do too badly when we all went up before, remember.
Kole: That's true.
Alexei: Well, it's settled then. I'm sure Mashka can watch Marie until we get back.
Kole: Earth orbit, here we come!


Tatiana's Center...

Alexandra: How are you feeling today, Nicky?
Nicholas: Much better, Alix. Tatiana says I'm healing pretty well. Soon, I should be home again. How are things going with Olga?
Alexandra: She leaves for Romania on the 13th. She'll be taking her whole family with her. It's just that... A worried look comes over her face.
Nicholas: Alix, I wouldn't worry. I'm sure she'll be fine.
Alexandra: What if Carol tries something again, like he did last time.
Nicholas: I'm sure he won't. He must know what's at stake here. I think this trip will go without incident.
Alexandra: I hope so, Nicky, I hope so.

[Tim]

**This bit was written by Wakas and edited by me.**


In the afternoon...

Maria: Whew, that Case Worker is finally gone.
Tatiana: Who did she think she was? Asking so many inquisitive questions?
Anastasia: She’s a witch, I’m telling you.
Sam: Ahem, Imp.
Anastasia: Oh, sorry about that Sam, I got carried away. I meant witch in the pejorative sense of the word.
Sam: No offense taken. I agree with you. What a horrible woman. The only one she was friendly with was Gavriil.


Meanwhile Alexei and the guys are discussing...

Ivan K: So you and Kole are going up in the shuttle again. You're going to orbit the Earth.
Alexei: Yes. Tatiana gave her approval. There’s no risk to Kole and our unborn baby.
Ivan S: You’re lucky. Maria and I really enjoyed it the last time.
Ivan K: Yeah, the feeling you have up there is indescribable.
Dimitri C-B: I’d have liked to go with you. Instead I get the unpleasant task of seeing Carol’s face every day for two weeks.
Alexei: Laughs. My poor Dimitri, I pity you.
Dimitri M: Alexei, you and Kole aren’t going to Romania? Kole wanted to visit that country.
Alexei: Whoops, I forgot. I’m going to ask her. If she still wants to go to Romania, we’ll postpone our journey into space.
Dimitri M: And about Lothos? What do we do when he shows up again?
Ivan K: When he comes, we will make him feel welcome in a way he'll remember for the rest of his life. That, dude, is the plan.
Dimitri M: Sounds good.
Alexei: Tomorrow, I’ll go to the armory to buy some more guns. We didn’t have enough of them when Kole and Sam were kidnapped. Best to be prepared this time.


Later in the evening...

Sam: I dropped Gavriil off at your Aunt Elisabeth’s. She was very pleased to meet him.
Alexei: Good. Did you explain to her why?
Sam: I did. And I told Gavriil too. I had made him a promise to let him know if anything was about him.
Olga: He is in safety at our Aunt’s. She will take care of him.
Tatiana: Yes, there’s no need to worry about him anymore. And by the way, Papa will be out of the Center tomorrow.
Maria: Great news! Imp and I will pick him up.

[Tim]

Alexei and Kole's apartment...

Kole: So, how do you feel about going into space again?
Alexei: I'm looking forward to it, Kole, but...
Kole: Yes?
Alexei: I thought you wanted to go to Romania.
Kole: So did I. However, I would rather go into space. I would understand if you didn't want to come because of that...
Alexei: No, Kole, you're my wife. Where you go, I go.
Kole: Good, because I was thinking of adding a new destination to our trip. How do you feel about seeing Mars?
Alexei: Mars? The planet Mars!?
Kole: Yes, it's in range of my shuttle. I always wanted to go, but I never got the time. Now I can.
Alexei: Mars, I mean.... Wow!
Kole: Alexei, you know that, as a little girl, I loved the great Science Fiction novels of H.G. Wells, Ray Bradbury, Robert Heinlein, and the rest. Well, a lot of those authors wrote novels about Mars. Of course, the real Mars is nothing like those novels, but I would still like to see the Red Planet up close. So, Alexei, how do you feel about seeing Mars?
Alexei is speechless.


Anichkov Palace...

Sam: I just got off the phone with your Aunt Elizabeth. Gavriil is settling in nicely.
Maria: That's good to know.
Sam: Now, about your case against the National Intruder...
Anastasia: Yes?
Sam: The problem I see is that you have to prove that the articles did real damage.
Tatiana: What do you mean?
Sam: I mean that did the article hurt your reputations in any way. Believe me, a lot of tabloids have legal wiggle room when it comes to that.
Anastasia: Does that mean we have no case?
Sam: No, it simply means that I'll have to work a little harder, that's all. Of course, it's hard for me to concentrate right now, knowing that Lothos is thinking of going after Gavriil.
Maria: I'm sure he'll be fine, Sam.
Sam: I know, still I worry.
Anastasia: I can understand how you feel, Sam. I would hate to learn that someone with a grudge against me had targeted my children.
Tatiana and Maria nod in agreement.
Sam: So you see where I'm coming from.
Maria: Sam, don't you worry about Lothos going after your family in 2011?
Sam: Smiles. He can try. My two older brothers would kick him so hard that he'd come down in Australia.
Maria: So I'm guessing your family can take care of themselves.
Sam: Yes, they can. The reason Lothos is targeting Gavriil is because he believes Gavriil is helpless, and that I'm helpless to stop him. I intend to prove him wrong.
Anastasia: Correction, WE intend to prove him wrong.
Olga comes in.
Olga: My Dimitri and I are about to head home. What are you all talking about?
Tatiana: Well. Fills Olga in.
Olga: Sam, you can count on us, and the guys, to help you should Lothos attack.
Sam: Thank you all...

[Tim]

**This bit was written by Wakas and edited by me.**


Later...

Olga: Mars?
Alexei: Yeah. Mars.
Olga: I need for air. This is...
Alexei: Awesome? Thrilling? Terrific?
Olga: I'd say the right word is crazy.
Alexei: I can't wait, this is going to be great.
Olga: When will you start this journey?
Alexei: Soon. We don't know exactly when yet.
Olga: How long is the voyage?
Alexei: In Kole's space shuttle, it'll take about one month to reach Mars.
Olga: One month? That's a long time.
Alexei: Not that much if you compare to Sam's time. In 2011, it took seven months to go to Mars.
Olga: Alexei?
Alexei: Yes?
Olga: Take care of yourself and of Kole. We'll miss you both.
Alexei: Don't worry, Olga. We'll be able to see and talk to each other by webcam.
Olga: That's a relief.


Two days later...

Sam’s mobile rings. She answers the call.
Sam: Yes?
Kerensky: On phone. I heard Tatiana and Olga are suing the National Intruder and you’re going to be their lawyer.
Sam: It’s true. The hearing is in two days.
Kerensky: I found another solution. I negotiated with the National Intruder’s own lawyer and they’re ready to give 50 million in compensation if Olga and Tatiana withdraw their complaint.
Sam: Why? Are they afraid of us?
Kerensky: No. It's my idea. When I learned about that lawsuit, I contacted them to find an agreement. All of you have suffered enough from tabloids. Going ahead with that lawsuit would expose you to publicity, therefore to others malicious newspapers. Better to resolve this matter with the National Intruder privately.
Sam: I haven’t thought of the consequences. Thanks Kerensky, I’ll explain that to Olga and Tatiana. I hope they will change their minds.
Kerensky: I hope so too. If you can’t convince them, I’ll try to do so.


Later, that morning...

Sam: Speaking to Anastasia while getting into her car. I'm going to visit Gavriil. I'll see you later.
Anastasia: Okay, Sam, catch you later.


Soon, while driving, Sam sees a car following her.

Sam: Smiles. Lothos has taken the bait. He probably thought I wouldn't notice that he had placed a microphone in my car. We’ll see who is smarter here.
She drives for a half-hour and then parks her car in an empty lot. The driver behind her does the same.
Sam: Gets out of her car. Lothos, you made a big mistake.
Lothos: Gets out of his car too and pulls out a gun. I doubt it. You think you had me because I don’t know where the boy is? I don’t care about him now, Sam. You’re here all alone, nobody can hear you screaming. I’ll finish the work I started in 2011.
Sam: I doubt it. As I said, you made a big mistake, Lothos. Take a look behind you.
Lothos does so and see the two D’s, the Ivan’s and Alexei blocking his way. They’re all armed.
Alexei: You've fallen into a trap, Lothos. Castiel warned us. So we made the necessary arrangements to be ready when you showed up.
Sam: As soon I discovered the microphone in my car, I knew you were back in town. To be honest, I expected better from you. You've disappointed me this time. This looks like a schoolboy's idea, not an old dodger’s like you. You’re getting old, Lothos.
Lothos: Go to Hell, you bitch! Points his gun towards Sam but before he can pull the trigger, Ivan S shoots him and Lothos falls to the ground.
Ivan S: He’s badly hurt. We need to get him to Tatiana's Center quickly.
Sam: Wait a minute. Leans over Lothos, who is unconscious, and takes the Amulet of Hogthor. Now he won’t be able to use it to escape. To the others. Go to the Center, I’ll join you there soon. While the others leave, she contemplates the Amulet thoughtfully. What if I use it to get back to my time? I could see my family again, just one last time. I didn't have the time to say goodbye to them before, now I can...

[Tim]

Later, at Tatiana's Center...

Tatiana: Comes out. Well, Lothos will live, but he's going to be here for a few days.
Olga: Well, there will be Cossacks waiting to take him into custody when he's discharged. He committed his latest crime on Russian soil, so he should be subject to our laws.
Sam: Pulls out the Amulet Of Hogthor. Well, he won't be going back to the future, not without this. I think I'll just hang onto it for now. Looks at Olga and Tatiana. Can I have a word with both of you?
Tatiana: Sure, no problem.


And so...

Olga: Kerensky convinced the National Intruder to settle with us privately?
Sam: Yes, that is what he said.
Tatiana: Well, I can see his point. A trial would cause a lot of publicity, and not all of it would be good.
Olga: What do you think, Sam?
Sam: I'd say take the deal. Better to let this matter quietly drop than have it dragged through the mud.
Tatiana: Okay, Sam, I think you're right.
Olga: Me too.
Sam: Good, I'll call Kerensky and tell him you two have accepted to settle privately.


A couple of hours later, at Alexei and Kole's apartment...

Alexei: Kole, I've been thinking about our trip to Mars.
Kole: You're not having second thoughts, I hope.
Alexei: No, not really. It's just that I really don't fancy being away from Earth for over two months.
Kole: It won't be that long.
Alexei: Huh?
Kole: It will take us a month to get to Mars, yes. However, by the time we get there, the orbital positions of Earth and Mars will be much closer. That will cut our return trip time.
Alexei: How long will it take us to get back?
Kole: I'd say about two weeks.
Alexei: That's not bad at all.
Kole: No, it isn't. Besides, the month long trip there will give me time to train you.
Alexei: Train me?
Kole: Yeah, you'll have to learn to sleep, eat, and do other things in zero gravity. Plus you'll have to learn how to use a space suit.
Alexei: A space suit?
Kole: Yes, the shuttle has two of them. I'm going to land us on Mars. Since the atmosphere of Mars is carbon dioxide, we'll need them to breath.
Alexei: Wow, we're actually going to walk on Mars?
Kole: Yep. We'll be boldly going where no one has gone before. Smiles.


The next day, Nicholas is discharged from the Center, and they're all having a celebratory dinner at Anichkov Palace...

Nicholas: It's good to be here.
Alexandra: I agree, Nicky. However, you have to take care of yourself from now one.
Nicholas: I know. Tatiana already told me.
Tatiana: For good reason, Papa.
Nicholas: I know. Looks at Alexei. So, what's all this I hear about you and Kole going to Mars?
Alexei: It's true, Papa. Kole wants to go, and, as he husband, I'm going with her. We'll be gone for about six weeks.
Maria: I've volunteered to watch Marie until they get back.
Anastasia: I figured you would, Mashka.
Alexandra: Is it safe?
Kole: If I thought it wasn't safe, I wouldn't have suggested it. I can teach Alexei all he needs to know on the way.
Alexandra: Kole, you've been trained for all this. Alexei...
Kole: It's okay, trust me. Once the course is programmed in, the shuttle pretty much runs itself. It's not the Starship Enterprise, but it will get us where we want to go.
Anastasia: Ah yes, that show you told us all about a few years ago. Star Track?
Kole: Shares a smile with Sam. Star Trek, actually. I loved that show when I was growing up. To Nicholas and Alexandra. Trust me, Alexei and I will be fine.
Alexandra: Well, Kole, we'll just have to take your word on that. However, I trust you.
Nicholas: Me too.
Sam: Stands up. I have an announcement of my own to make.
Olga: What is it, Sam?
Sam: Holds up the Amulet Of Hogthor. With this, I can travel back to 2011.
Maria: You're leaving us!?
Sam: No, Mashka, I'm not, at least not permanently. I have Gavriil to take care of, after all. What I want to do is just go back long enough to see my family and give them a proper good-bye.
Tatiana: I can see why, Sam. You were in a coma the last time you left 2011, and didn't get a chance.
Sam: Yes, now I can. I owe it to my parents, my two brothers, my sister, not to mention Gharman and my other children, to tell them why I'm staying here in 1928. I want to tell them about Gavriil.
Kole: In short, you want to say good-bye to your time, like I did when we all went to 2071.
Sam: That's it exactly. I own them all that much, don't you all agree...

[Tim]

**This bit was written by Wakas and edited by me.**


Maria: Tell us more about your family. So you and your siblings are four altogether.
Olga: Like your own children.
Sam: Yes, except that I have a boy and three girls, while my parents have two boys and two girls.
Tatiana: Who is the eldest?
Sam: My brothers, Jason and Jaheim. They’re twins.
Anastasia: And who’s the next after them?
Sam: I am. I was born five years later. And after me is my sister, Serenity. We are ten years apart.
Anastasia: So she’s about my age?
Sam: Yeah, that's about right.
Maria: Is she married?
Sam: She is. The last time I went visiting them, she was pregnant with her first child. I guess he or she must be born by now. My brothers are married too. Jason has two daughters, and Jaheim, four kids, all boys.
Tatiana: And your children, how old are they?
Sam: Gharman is eighteen, Alaina, seventeen, Jaelyn, thirteen and Carley, twelve.
Olga: That’s quite a big family. And now you have Gavriil too.
Sam: Yes. Speaking of which, I'm going to pick him up at the nunnery. Now that Lothos is out of the way, Gavriil can come out of hiding. On the way I’ll fill him in on recent events.
Maria: And let me guess, you’ll ask him if he wants to travel with you into the future.
Sam: Exactly. I want my family to meet him. I'm sure he’ll say yes. Which kid wouldn't be excited to do a journey through time?


Later...

Sam: Are you ready?
Gavriil: I am. I can’t believe we are about to do this. Travel in time.
Sam: It’s nothing. I've done this many times. I’m used to it. Takes a deep breath. Okay, let’s count to three. One...
Gavriil: Two...
Sam: THREE! Sam uses the Amulet and both vanish in the air.


2011, San Francisco, the center of town...

Sam: She and Gavriil reappear in front of a house. Here it is. This is home. Rings the doorbell.
Gavriil: Sam, you look nervous. What’s wrong?
Sam: It’s just emotion. Just yesterday I thought I’d never see my family again... Her parents open the door. Gavriil, let me introduce you to my parents, Ronen and Hadassah.
Hadassah/Ronen: SAM?! It’s you! Oh God! Rush to embrace their daughter.
Ronen: How... How did you manage to go back here? Castiel told us you were stuck in 1928.
Sam: Long story. I’ll tell you all about it later. Right now, Mom and Dad, I’m so happy to see you.
Hadassah: We thought you’d never be able to come back to us.
Sam: Well, it was hard but I did it.
Ronen: And who is this boy with you?
Sam: That’s Gavriil, my son. My application to adopt him has just been accepted.
Hadassah: I'm pleased to meet you, Gavriil.
Ronen: Welcome. Call us Grandfather and Grandmother. Gavriil blushes and says nothing.
Sam: He’s sometimes shy with people he's just met. In a couple of days, it’ll get better. Mom, where are Gharman and my daughters?
Hadassah: They’re inside the house. I’ll call them. GHARMAN!
Gharman: Appears. Yes, Grandm... Sees Sam. MOM?!... MOM?! GIRLS! COME HERE QUICKLY! MOM IS BACK!
Alaina: From inside the house. Ha! Ha! Ha! That’s not funny, Gharman. She will never come back, you know it. Stop doing these stupid jokes.
Gharman: I swear...
Ronen: Alaina, he’s telling the truth. Come and see with your own eyes.
Sam: It’s not a joke. I’m back.
Alaina: Recognizes Sam’s voice. It’s... It’s... Gets outside the house in tears and runs into her mother’s arms. Mom...

[Tim]

Back in Russia, 1928, Alexei and Kole's place...

Kole: Well, I'm ready.
Alexei: Ready for what?
Kole: I'm going to take the shuttle into orbit for a preliminary check.
Alexei: You are?
Kole: Alexei, I have to be sure everything is working okay, before we go to Mars.
Alexei: How long will this take?
Kole: Just a few hours.
Alexei: You want me to come along?
Kole: No, it won't be necessary for this. I won't be gone that long. Why don't you take Marie over to Anichkov Palace, until I return.
Alexei: I will. I can visit Papa while I'm there and see how he's doing.
Kole: Good. I'll see you later.
Alexei: Kisses his wife. Good luck, Kole.


Anichkov Palace, later than day...

Alexandra: Lunch will be ready soon.
Tatiana: Now remember, Papa, you have to watch what you eat.
Nicholas: I know, I know. Smiles. My daughter the doctor.
Alexei: I see Sam isn't back yet.
Maria: I expect she's enjoying her family reunion. Not that I blame her.
Alexei: Me neither.
Anastasia: Comes in. Well, the children are all settled in for lunch.
Olga: I guess we should have ours too.


An hour later, Tatiana gets a call...

Tatiana: Yes?
Irina: On phone. Dr. Malama, we have a problem. That man that was in custody here...
Tatiana: Lothos?
Irina: Yes, he's escaped!
Tatiana: What!?
Irina: He overpowered his guard and escaped. The guard is not hurt, just a concussion. However, we've searched the Center and he's gone. We've called the police and they're searching St. Petersburg for him.
Tatiana: Oh my God.
Irina: There's one thing more, a scalpel was stolen from the supply room. We think he took it.
Tatiana: Thanks Irina. Ends the call.
Olga: What's happened?
Tatiana: Lothos has escaped from the Center.
Maria: Do they know where he went?
Tatiana: No, but the police are looking for him now.
Anastasia: Do they have any leads yet?
Tatiana: No.
Alexei: Well... His cell phone rings and he answers. Yes?
Voice: This is the Commander of the airbase where your wife keeps her ship.
Alexei: What happened? Did Kole's launch go okay?
Commander: Oh, it went fine. However, we've found one of our guards murdered, his throat was cut.
Alexei goes pale and drops his phone.
Tatiana: Alexei? What is it? What's wrong?
Alexei: I.... I.... I know where Lothos is.


Earth orbit, Kole's shuttle...

Kole: At controls. Well, everything is looking good.
Lothos: Voice from behind. I'm so glad to hear that.
Kole: Wh... She turns and sees Lothos there, holding a bloody scalpel. You!
Lothos: Grins evilly. Yes, my dear, me. And I must say this is working out nicely.
Kole: What do you want?
Lothos: Why you and this ship, of course.
Kole: Looks at the scalpel. How did...
Lothos: How did that happen. When I snuck onto this base, a guard just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Kole: You killed him!?
Lothos: He was in my way.
Kole: You really have no qualms about murder, do you.
Lothos: Not a one.
Kole: Well, if you kill me, you'll have no one to fly this ship.
Lothos: That is why I won't kill you, however, unless you do as I ask, I WILL kill someone dear to you. Your husband, your daughter...
Kole: Don't you touch them, you son of a bitch!
Lothos: Well, then, you better co-operate with me.
Kole: What do you want?
Lothos: I want you to land this ship in Germany, at a location I will choose.
Kole: You intend to give it to the Nazis, don't you.
Lothos: That's right. Their scientists will love to get their hands on this technology. They'll study it, and use it. By the time the war begins, they'll have a huge technological advantage over the Allies.
Kole: Which will help them win the war.
Lothos: Yes. When that happens, I'll track down the Vampire Hunters of this time. We'll form an alliance with the Nazis. They can deal with the human garbage, and me and my Vampire Hunters will take care of the rest. It will be a perfect world when we're finished disposing of the sub-human vermin.
Kole: You're mad, Lothos, raving mad. No deal!
Lothos: Well, then, unless you want me to start killing your loved ones..
Kole: Begins to secretly secure herself to her seat. Ever see the Alien movies?
Lothos: What!?
Kole: Great films. Introduced the character of Ellen Ripley to popular culture.
Lothos: I don't see how this...
Kole: I always loved the tag line from the first Alien movie: In space, no one can hear you scream! With that, Kole suddenly presses a button, opening the airlock doors.
Lothos: YAAAAHHHH!! Is sucked out into the vacuum of space.
Kole: Is securely strapped to her seat, so she's safe. She then closes the airlock and presses another button, releasing the emergency oxygen supply into the cabin. Have a nice trip, you psycho.


Soon, back on Earth, Alexei and Tatiana have arrived at the airbase...

Alexei: Look, he comes the shuttle.
They watch as the shuttle lands.
Tatiana: Alexei, be careful.
Alexei: I will. Runs over to the shuttle, as the hatch opens, revealing Kole. KOLE!
Kole: Dazed. Alexei?
Alexei: Thank God you're safe! Hugs her. Where is that Lothos?
Kole: He's taking a space walk, without a suit, I might add.
Alexei: I see.
Tatiana: Walks up. Kole, your nose is bleeding.
Kole: It is? Must have been the decompression, it might have caused some blood vessels to burst.
Tatiana: Decompression?
Kole: I'll explain when I get home.
Tatiana: Folds her arms. The only place you're going now, Kole, is to the Center. I want to have a look at you. Doctor's orders!
Kole: Ma'am, yes Ma'am!

[Tim]

**This bit was written by Wakas and edited by me.**


Tatiana’s Center...


Tatiana: Alexei, Kole is lucky that there are no after affects. She and the baby are both fine.
Alexei: Grins. This is very good news. Thank you,Tatiana.
Tatiana: She does have guts. That Lothos was dangerous and insane, yet she didn't panic. Instead she... Kicked him out.
Alexei: Good choice of words.
Tatiana: That’s what I like about her. Her fearlessness.
Alexei: She sure is, considering we’ll be walking on Mars soon. If that is not dauntless, then I don’t know what is.
Tatiana: I regret that I won't be part of this adventure. I would have loved to come along.
Alexei: I wish it were possible. However the shuttle has only two space suits.
Tatiana: I know. Anyhow, I can’t take time off from work for six weeks. It's just way too long.


Alexander Palace...

Maria: So now things are settling down, what do you think of doing our Little Pair day?
Anastasia: The one we had to cancel when Papa had his heart attack.
Maria: Yep, that one.
Anastasia: I say let’s go for it.
Maria: Okay. Knock on wood. Let’s hope this time there won’t be another big crisis.
Anastasia: Don’t be superstitious, Mashka. Bad things don’t happen all the time. There are also good things in life you know.
Maria: That makes me think of Sam. I hope she’s having a good time with her family.
Anastasia: So do I. She can enjoy things like that now Lothos, the Psychopath, is at the Center.


San Francisco, 2011, Ronen and Hadassah’s house...

Gharman: Mom, it would be wonderful if you’d consider living here again.
Alaina: With Lothos out of the way, it's safe for you to be here now.
Sam: I’d love to, but I also have another family in 1928. They’re waiting for me to come back.
Gharman: Whatever choice you'll make, wherever you go, I’ll go with you.
Alaina: Same here. If you choose to return to the past, then 1928 will be our new home.
Jaelyn/Carley: That goes for us too.
Jaelyn: Don’t even think of leaving us behind.
Sam: You can’t do that. 2011 is the time where you all belong. This is where your family and friends are.
Gharman: Mom, we missed you so much. We don't want to be separated from you ever again.
Sam: I need some time to think about it. Right now, what do you want to do?
Gharman: Why not take a walk over to the video games store? Gavriil told me he wants to try Call of Duty and there are some new games I want to take a look at.
Sam: Amused. Videos games, huh? Still your same old addiction? I see nothing much has changed since my departure. Alright, let's go to that store.


Meanwhile, back in 1928, at Olga and Dimitri’s place...

Olga: I’m depressed at the thought of this trip in Romania. If only Carol weren’t there.
Dimitri C-B: I don’t like that snooty guy either.
Olga: Sighs. Two weeks in his company will seem like an eternity. Fortunately, you’ll be there with me.
Dimitri C-B: How can the Romanians stand him. That’s a mystery to me.
Olga: He’s not popular at all in his country. People are fed up of him. They don’t want him to ascend to the throne, they prefer his younger brother, Nicholas. And to be honest, I do too.


Back at Anichkov, with Anastasia and Maria...

Anastasia: So, what’s the program?
Maria: The Divo Ostrov Island in the morning. It’s 30 minutes from St. Petersburg. There’s a big amusement park there. For the lunch, we’ll find a nice little restaurant and in the afternoon, how about a balloon ride?
Anastasia: I like the way you think. Let’s go have some fun. Checks her mobile. Mashka, I just got a text from Tatiana. You’ll never guess what Kole just did.
Maria: Tell me.
Anastasia: She... Explains. I’ll call her to check if she’s okay. Dials Kole’s number. Kole...

[Tim]

Kole: On phone. Yes?
Anastasia: We just heard what happened with Lothos. Are you okay?
Kole: I'm fine, Anastasia, don't worry about me.
Anastasia: Okay, just checking. Ends the call.
Maria: So?
Anastasia: She says she's okay.
Maria: I knew she could handle things.
Anastasia: Yeah, I guess so. Anyway, back to our plans...


Alexei and Kole's apartment...

Alexei: Who was that?
Kole: Anastasia. She heard what happened and wanted to know if I was okay.
Alexei: Well, I guess everyone will want to know that.
Kole: Sighs. If there had been any other way to deal with Lothos, I would have done it. He left me no choice
Alexei: The world is better off without him, Kole. That guard he murdered had a wife and five year old son. You gave them justice.
Kole: Yeah, I guess I did. Strange, all the times I've seen the villain disposed of in that way in movies and television, blown out an airlock. I never thought I would actually live it.
Alexei: Yet, it happened. Still, Lothos is out of our lives for good.
Kole: I'll say. At least we'll have good news for Sam when she gets back, she won't have to look over her shoulder for him anymore.
Alexei: Speaking of Sam, I wonder how thing are going for her.


San Francisco, 2011, Sam and her family are having dinner...

Hadassah: Where's Gavriil? Won't he be joining us?
Sam: He's laying down, Mom. Gharman wore him out.
Gharman: Hey, don't blame me. That kid took to video games like a thirty person takes to water.
Sam: Some things don't change, it seems. By the way, how's the Sanctuary doing?
Gharman: Great, Mom, I'm looking after it well.
Sam: Good, I might take Gavriil there. He'll be blown away by the animals we have in there.
Alaina: Considering they aren't found anywhere else on Earth.
Carley: So, Mom, have you decided?
Ronen: Decided what?
Jaelyn: Whether she's going to stay here or not. Gavriil can stay too.
Ronen: I'm sorry, but that's out of the question. Both Sam and Gavriil must return to 1928.
Hadassah: Ronen...
Ronen: She has to know, Hadassah. We can't keep this from her any longer.
Sam: I have to know what!? Dad? Mom? What's going on!?
Ronen: You are no doubt familiar with the Siege of St. Petersburg that happened, or will happen, depending on how you look at it, during World War II.
Sam: Yeah, Dad, I know about it. It lasted, or will last, over two years.
Ronen: Yes, but did you know how the siege ended in January of 1944? It was ended by Russian forces under the command of one Gavriil Baranov. He becomes a national hero in Russia because of that.
Sam: Astonished. Gavriil? MY Gavriil?
Ronen: Yes, him. So you see why you must go back, both of you. It's history.
Sam: I....
Hadassah: However, Sam, there is no reason why we can't keep in touch. Remember this? Puts an object on the table.
Sam: The magic mail box.
Hadassah: When you go back, take it with you. We have another one here with us.
Gharman: That's great, Mom. We can keep in contact with each other.
Sam: Yeah, I guess we can.... Wow! My adopted son is going to be a war hero.
Ronen: And he becomes Prime Minister of Russia after that. Of course, you can't tell Gavriil any of this.
Sam: Don't worry, Dad, your secret is safe with me. It's just.... Wow!
Hadassah: As your father said, Sam, it's history...
The doorbell rings.
Gharman: I'll get it. Goes out and comes back with Sam's brothers, Jason and Jaheim, and her sister, Serenity.
Jason: Sis, welcome back.
Jaheim: Good to see you.
Sam: Good to see the three of you. Hugs her brothers and sister.
Serenity: So, what's this about a Russian boy you've adopted?
Sam: Gavriil. Yes, I've adopted him. Oh, here he comes now...

[Tim]

**This bit was written by Wakas and edited by me.**


Sam: Gavriil, I see that nap did you good, you look better. These are my siblings, my brothers Jason and Jaheim, and my sister Serenity.
Gavriil: I’m happy to meet the rest of your family, Sam.
Serenity: And so are we, Gavriil. I heard many good things about you. You’re the one who...
Sam: Knows what Serenity is talking about, so she quickly changes the subject. Sis, Bros, do you want to dine with us?
Serenity: Sure, I’m hungry.
Jaheim: Ditto.
Gavriil: Serenity, what were you about to say?
Serenity: Looks at Sam. Oh nothing. While everyone is heading to the living room, she whispers to her sister. I guess now you know about your little Gavriil's future?
Sam: In the same tone. Yeah, Dad and Mom told me.
Serenity: I feel so sorry for you. Once again it seems you can’t live here in 2011. Seems the odds are stacked against you.
Sam: Not at all. I feel lucky.
Serenity: You do?
Sam: Yes. I have Gavriil and I was able to see you all again. Furthermore when I leave, we’ll still be able to keep in touch through the magic mail box.
Serenity: I’m glad. Letting you go without hearing from you isn’t something I want to go through again. It was too hard.
Sam: By the way, Sis, how does it feel to be a Mom now?
Serenity: It's great. My baby girl is an angel, I adore her.
Sam: So it’s a girl? What’s her name?
Serenity: April. She will be four months in a week. Why don’t you come to our home tomorrow to meet her?
Sam: I will. I want to see how my new little niece looks like.


Russia, 1928, early in the day, in a hot air balloon...

Maria: Looks at St. Petersburg. Wow, can you imagine anything more beautiful than that?
Anastasia: It’s grandiose. I can’t remember such a wonderful feeling, except when we saw the Earth from Kole’s shuttle. I’m speechless.
Maria: As am I. I’d never get tired of this panorama.
Anastasia: What a beautiful city we have, don’t you agree, Mashka?
Maria: Yes. There’s no other place in the world where I want to live.
Anastasia: You had a brilliant idea to do this balloon ride. When we return, we’ll tell the Big Pair what they missed. They’re gonna be so jealous.
Maria just laughs at this.


2011, the next day, in Sam’s Sanctuary...

Gavriil: Sam, this place is so cool! Oh, are you kidding me, is it... It’s... A hydra??!
Sam: It is. And here is a sphinx.
Gavriil: No? Really?
Sam: Indeed.
Gavriil: Are they tame?
Sam: No, not them, but this unicorn is. You can pet her, if you want.
Gavriil: Approaches the unicorn and slowly begins to caress her. How can those animals be here? They’re not supposed to exist.
Sam: Actually they exist nowhere else than here in my Sanctuary.
Gavriil: How did you do that?
Sam: I was a powerful witch, Gavriil. I created them.
Gavriil: Such a shame you don't have those powers anymore.
Sam: No, I realized it was for the best. With such powers, you can make terrible, irreparable mistakes. It was too much responsibility. Now that I’m a normal human being, it feels good.
Gavriil: I’m glad I met you, Sam. You were the first person really interested in me. And with you it’s a lot of fun, there’s always some crazy stuff to do. Like travelling in time, seeing those weird animals.
Sam: Good to see you enjoy it, but I can assure it’s nothing compared to the hectic life I used to have. THAT was crazy. Fortunately those days are over.


Some time later...

Jaheim: Seeing Sam surfing the Internet. Why are you doing, Sis?
Sam: I’m doing some research about Gavriil’s family. I couldn't do that back in 1928. The building, where Gavriil’s records were, burned in 1918. However since he appears to be a famous person, I hope that here in 2011, historians have been able to find some info on him somehow. Ah, here we are. Gavriil Baranov, birth date: 12th January 1918.
Jaheim: What else are they saying?
Sam: He was born in Perm, to Peter and Elena Baranov.
Jaheim: And what happened to them?
Sam: They were killed by the Bolsheviks when he was a few months old.
Jaheim: Poor kid. Was he an only child?
Sam: Yes, no brothers or sisters. Closes the Internet window. Okay, I’m stopping here. It’s no good to know too much about the future. I have all the info I wanted.
Jaheim: Sam, I just wanted to tell you something. I saw you with Gavriil. You’re a good Mom to him, and he’s happy with you.
Sam: Goes red. Thanks, Jaheim.


Back in 1928...

Olga: I’m thinking of that poor guard Lothos killed. There must be a way to help his family.
Tatiana: You don’t have to be concerned about that, Olga. Mama and Papa have decided to send his widow a pension each month, and they’re going to pay all the future tuition fees of his son.
Olga: Okay. For our part, we could use the money the National Intruder gave us to help needy families. That’s a good idea, isn’t it?
Tatiana: Yeah, it's a pretty good one. We could found a Committee like the ones we set up in the war.
Olga: I’ll let you handle the management. It’s not my cup of tea.
Tatiana: Alright, let’s get busy. I have plenty of phone calls to make.
Olga: Oh God, here we go again. Tanya, I'm warning you. I won’t attend any Committee meetings. I’m bored to death by them.
Tatiana: Not listening to her. Okay, okay. First I’ll have to call Kerensky, and then...

[Tim]

The next day, everyone has gathered at the air base, to see Alexei and Kole off on their journey to Mars...

Alexandra: Oh, Alexei, I'm going to miss you.
Alexei: Mama, don't worry, I'll be fine.
Alexandra: I know. Yet it seems it was just yesterday you were that little boy I couldn't let out of my sight. Now you're going to be millions of miles away!
Nicholas: You can see why this is somewhat difficult for us.
Alexei: I know, Papa, but everything will be fine. Trust me.
Nicholas: Of course, I trust you. And Kole too.
Anastasia: Good luck, Alexei.
Maria: I'll take care of your little one until you get back. Holds up Marie.
Alexei: To Marie. Now, don't give Auntie Mashka any problems now.
Tatiana: Walks up. I've just had the last of the medical supplies, from the Center, loaded on the shuttle. Kole is checking them now.
Alexei: Hopefully, we won't need them much.
Tatiana: I know, but it always helps to be prepared.
Olga: I wish I was going with you.
Alexei: Let me guess, to get out of that trip to Romania.
Olga: Any chance you can...
Alexei: Sorry, Olga, there are only two space suits on the shuttle. It was okay for us all when we were just orbiting Earth, but this is different. Kole and I will be much farther away this time.
Olga: Hey, I had to try. Anything better than seeing Carol again.
Dimitri C-B: Olga, you'll be fine.
Olga: Sighs. I know.
Dimitri M: To Alexei. Dude, good luck!
Alexei: Thank you.
More good-byes are said, before Alexei boards the shuttle.


Soon, both Kole and Alexei are strapped in...

Kole: Nervous?
Alexei: A little. This is big, I mean BIG!
Kole: Relax, you'll do great. Here we go. Begins working the controls.


Outside, everyone watches as the shuttle lifts up, going higher and higher until it disappears into the sky...

Nicholas: Alix? Are you okay?
Alexandra: Wiping tears from her eyes. I'm fine, Nicky. It's hard for me to let go, you know that. Especially Alexei, considering how sick he was.
Nicholas: Alix, that's years in the past. He's a grown man now, and he's healthy.
Alexandra: I know, Nicky, but some habits are just hard to break.
Nicholas: Looking at the sky. I know, Alix, I know.


Earth orbit...

Kole: Well, we've left Earth's gravity, so we'll be weightless from now on.
Alexei: I guess that's why we're strapped down.
Kole: Yes. Until you get used to zero gravity, you better be careful.
Alexei: Yes, I know.
Kole: Working the controls. Ion drive engaged. Mars, here we come. Flicks on a view screen which shows Earth receding to the rear.
Alexei: Wow, this is it. This is really happening.
Kole: It is. Are you thirsty?
Alexei: A little. You have any water?
Kole: Holds up a squeeze tube. Here you go.
Alexei: I see. I squirt the water right into my mouth, so it doesn't float around the shuttle.
Kole: That's it. Soon I'll show you how to eat and do other things in zero gravity.
Alexei: Kole, you seem so at home doing this.
Kole: Well, I did train for this. Mind you, I never made it to Mars in my time. I was scheduled to go...
Alexei: Had you not ended up in the past.
Kole: That's true, Alexei, but I have no regrets. I met you and your family. I met Sam. Also, we had Marie. And now I am going to Mars, with my husband at my side.
Alexei: Aw...
Kole: It's too bad that Sam wasn't there to see us off, however, I can't blame her.
Alexei: The others can tell her when she returns.
Kole: I guess they can. Anyway, there are some items I'd like to go over now.
Alexei: Can we have some music first?
Kole: Smiles. Why not. I know just the song for this occasion. I'll just put the CD in.
The shuttle flies on and the song Ends Of The Earth, by Lord Huron can be heard...

Oh, there's a river that winds on forever
I'm gonna see where it leads
Oh, there's a mountain that no man has mounted
I'm gonna stand on the peak

Out there's a land that time don't command
Wanna be the first to arrive
No time for ponderin' why I'm a-wanderin'
Nowhere the buses lay

To the ends of the earth would you follow me?
There's a world that was meant for our eyes to see
To the ends of the earth would you follow me?
If you will have a say my goodbyes to me

Oh, there's an island where all things are silent
I'm gonna whistle a tune
Oh, there's a desert that size can't be measured
I'm gonna count all the dunes

Out there's a world that calls for me, girl
Headin' out into the unknown
Wayfarin' strangers and all kinds of danger
Please don't say I'm going alone

To the ends of the earth would you follow me?
There's a world that was meant for our eyes to see
To the ends of the earth would you follow me?
Well if you want, I will say my goodbyes to me

I was a-ready to die for you, baby
Doesn't mean I'm ready to stay
What good is livin' a life you've been given
If all you do is stand in one place

I'm on a river that winds on forever
Follow 'til I get where I'm goin'
Maybe I'm headin' to die but I'm still gonna try
I guess I'm goin' alone

[Tim]

**This bit was written by Wakas and edited by me. The opening sequence in the cemetery was written by me.**


San Francisco, 2011, a cemetery, the next day. We see Sam visiting a grave stone with the name William Marshall, beloved husband and father. Also there are the dates of his birth and death. As Sam continues her visit, Gharman arrives...

Gharman: I thought I'd find you here, Mom.
Sam: Well, I couldn't leave without saying good-bye to your father now, could I. Sometimes...
Gharman: Sometimes what?
Sam: I had all those powers, yet I couldn't save him. What the hell good were those damned powers if I couldn't use them to save the man I love?
Gharman: Come on now. Dad died in a car accident, it was a random thing. There was nothing you could have done to stop it, powers or no powers.
Sam: Yeah, but sometimes I don't feel that way. I felt I'd let the one man that mattered to me down. Perhaps that's why I married those other men...
Gharman: You could have put in a revolving door, considering how long those marriages lasted.
Sam: Very funny.
Gharman: Mom, we understand how you felt. You felt we needed a father figure.
Sam: Yeah, but none of them worked out. What the hell was I thinking. William was the love of my life, and always will be. Those other men, they mean nothing to me now.
Gharman: That's okay, Mom.
Sam: I'm going to spend a few more minutes here, then we'll pick up Gavriil and go home.
Gharman: Where is Gavriil?
Sam: I left him at Serenity's house, while I came here. She said she'd watch him until I got back.
Gharman: Right, I'll just give you those few moments then.


Two hours later, at Ronen and Hadassah’s house...

Sam: Well, I think that soon it will be time for us to leave, Gavriil.
Gavriil: Can’t we stay a little longer? I like it here, and Gharman has promised to let me play with his new car video game.
Sam: Sorry, no video games for you. Last time was sufficient.
Gavriil: Why can Gharman play and I can’t? That’s unfair.
Sam: Gharman is older than you. And he doesn’t feel sick when he plays video games, unlike a certain someone I know.
Gavriil: But...
Sam: Do you know what no means?
Gavriil: Unwillingly. Yes.
Sam: Now get ready. We’ll do some sightseeing today. Tomorrow, we’ll be heading home.
Gavriil: Pff. Just when things were starting to be fun.
Sam: Stop sulking, please, Gacha. Gives him a kiss. Do it for me.
Gavriil: Smiles a little. Fine, I’ll do it for you.


That afternoon, Sam and her children take Gavriil on a tour of San Francisco...

Alaina: One of the specialties of the West Coast is the Dungeness crab.
Gavriil: The one we ate at lunch?
Jaelyn: Yes, that one.
Gharman: Here is Fisherman’s Wharf, the most popular area of San Francisco. Not far from here is Alcatraz Island.
Sam: It was the site of a famous prison before it closed down, fifty years ago. Do you want to visit it?
Carley: Gharman, Jaelyn and I, have already been there, Mom.
Sam: Not Gavriil.
Gavriil: I’d like to see this place. It sounds creepy.
Sam: It is. After that, I’ll show you the Transamerica Pyramid. It’s the tallest skyscraper in San Francisco.
Gavriil: How tall?
Sam: About 260 meters in height.
Alaina: And there‘re 48 floors in all.
Gavriil: Impressive!
Gharman: Finally, we’ll go over the Golden Gate Bridge. You can’t visit San Francisco without going over that at least once.


Meanwhile, in 1928, Olga and Dimitri’s apartment...

Dimitri C-B: All the bags are packed, Olga, and the limo is waiting to take us to the airport. Do you have everything you need?
Olga: Glances around the room. Yeah, I have. Dimitri, I’m sad that Sam, Alexei, and Kole won't be there to say goodbye.
Dimitri C-B: I feel the same. Everything feels so weird without them.
Olga: Hope they’re all enjoying their respective trips.
Dimitri C-B: Spots something on his desk. Hey, I almost forgot the airline tickets. Thanks God, here they are.
Olga: Oh Dimitri... We’d have been in trouble otherwise.
Dimitri C-B: Whew! Takes Alice in his arms. Alexander and Elisabeth, are you ready?
Alexander: He and Elisabeth come into the room. Papa, Mama, where are we going? Constanta?
Olga: No, first, to Yalta, and then we’ll be cruising on the Standart to Romania.
Dimitri C-B: Honey, we’d better hurry or we’ll be late.
Alexander: I’m ready.
Elisabeth: And so am I.
Dimitri C-B: Where is the rest of the family?
Olga: They're on their way to the airport.
Dimitri C-B: Let’s go join them then.