Mystery and Mayhem and St Marks

Mystery and Mayhem At St Mark's

A Sequel

by

Joel

Seq: 29:

Some of the Characters Appearing or Mentioned: Mark Henry Foster The story-teller: Newly graduated. Tristan (Tris) Price-Williams His well-proportioned boyfriend. Francis Michael Foster Alias Toad/Microbe Mark's younger brother Adam Benjamin Carr Mark's cousin: History Fellow Ivo Richie Carr Ditto, as his twin, a diplomat Sophia Carr Their mother in Dorset George Carr Their father: A farmer Victoria ['Tory] Carr Ivo's wife George Henry Carr Ivo and 'Tory's new-born son Ignasz Zendener The hotel manager in Strelzen Tomas, Igor, Frantischek; Receptionists and students Aloys zum Adamszberh Rector of the Rodolfer University Jerzy zum Adamszberh His son, studying at Cambridge Tadeuz Galenosz A botanist, also at Cambridge Yniold Schreiber A student at the Gymno [Strelzen] Pyotor Borisov Yniold's friend. A promising singer Margaret zu Glottenberh Andrei's mother: Related to Mark's family Andrei zu Glottenberh Rothenian Army Officer [Special Services] Klaus & Bastian zu G.. His brothers Lucasz Voynovich Rothenian Army Officer [Signals Division] David Vinodosj Secret police

"And the badge?" Tris asked.

Andrei pulled down the top of his tee-shirt. He drew up a thin chain and a small polished badge was on it. "I wear it all the time. It's my talisman."]

He held it up to us as we went round the table. Spontaneously we both held it and kissed it. Andrei smiled and held out his hands and grasped ours. "Lucasz did exactly the same thing. I knew we were destined then to be together. You are part of our destiny as well."

As we sat and finished breakfast Tris said he would also experience something at Ulvescott. Some of our destiny had been foretold there.

No, we weren't sombre, because as the others gradually joined us plans for the morning were made. Yes, Wendel was an interesting town as we strolled around having the old buildings pointed out to us. Yes, Waclav was a very interesting boy. He was reasonably fluent in English and told Bastian off when we said he'd soaked us. Yes, perhaps his strong character might be a match for Bastian. I didn't know at the time what Tris said to Waclav in a quiet moment away from the rest of us, but, yes, the happy look on Bastian's face later was enough to give everyone a clue about future developments.

All too soon we were in the SUV again with an extra passenger. He sat beside Tris and asked him all sorts of questions as we journeyed along. In a stage whisper he said Waclav had asked him to go hiking when he had finished his duty at the Palace and he only had a small tent which they would have to share. Tris asked him who would be sleeping on top and he did blush, or it may have been the reflection of the sunset. 'Red sky at night: Shepherd's delight!'

At the hotel we introduced Bastian to Tomas and Igor. They said the Americans had enjoyed the Spa so much they were going tomorrow and they were joining them. Well, we had a morning free as the plane wasn't until four in the afternoon and Lucasz was going to drive us to the airport, so Bastian could be introduced to the delights and we could see.... But that was for the morrow!

Needless to say that Bastian had been sized up by the pair. Here was another playmate! But first we had to eat. As Tris and I still had quite a few krone and euros and Adam was still solvent we took Andrei, Bastian and Lucasz out for a meal and Nate paid for a bottle of champagne - certainly not the 80 euros kind the ugly bird had cost Yoggers Stags. We said goodnight to the older pair as they dropped us at the hotel and met the American crowd just returning from their night out. Free of US alcoholic restrictions they seemed more than slightly inebriated without being aggressive as so many UK drinkers become. They welcomed us, literally, with open arms and inhibitions were definitely loosened. Adam was hugged by a tipsy Ethan and he and Nate helped another couple up the stairs - I wondered if beds might be shared and virginities lost? Freddie the Hunk, however, was quite sober. I said we would be going to the Spa in the morning. After a shit-eating grin in acknowledgement he nudged me and pointed to the last two who were well over the top and clutching each other as they went up the stairs. "If only their Daddies could see them now," he whispered, "We baptised them like Adam said. You watch tomorrow!"

Bastian had been watching them as they dispersed to their much-needed beds. "Fancy any of them?" I asked.

The cheeky smile was there. "All of them. But one at a time!"

We checked with Tomas who was on duty if there were any messages. He shook his head. "Only for one American boy but he too drunk to take. I wrote. His girl say she missed." Tris asked if she said 'she missed him'? Tomas shook his head. "She just say she missed and she was crying. Why she upset?" Oh, a little surprise in a few month's time!

We had that little tidbit to savour and explain to an initially puzzled Tomas and an intrigued Bastian. However both were quite conversant with the birds and the bees and giggled at the explanation, then we were ready for bed, too. We said our goodnights as Adam and Nate had returned downstairs to a couple of innuendos about their loss of probable bedmates. Two fingers from each and we left them looking at the Zenda brochure. Outside our room Bastian said he wanted a goodnight kiss like his Mother used to give him. Tris was first and the kiss was rather protracted. My turn and Krote pressed a substantial young erection against me as he tried to tongue-fuck me. I slapped his clothed bum again. He pouted. "Only trying what I saw..." He stopped.

"...On the Internet?" I asked. He nodded. We lip-locked again and two very sturdy erections pressed against each other.

Tris separated us. "Bed, Bastian, and we're going for breakfast at seven thirty."

I got told off when he shut our door. I was not to lead Bastian astray. Leave that to Waclav. Huh! Given what Bastian had tried just now I think Waclav might be in for a few surprises. I said I was repentant. I was forgiven as my still erect prick was expertly dealt with. Oh, Bastian, I hope Waclav is the one for you!!

Thursday

Rooting around I found that Frankie had left behind a bundle of even more complimentary tickets Ivo had given him for the Spa. Impecunious Americans would be having a free outing. In fact there were about sixteen so we should all be OK.

Bastian was already waiting in the Reception Lobby. He was chatting to Ignasz who seemed quite captivated with the polite young man. He bowed as usual when he saw us. Yes, he said, he was hungry. We went along to the cafe where he proceeded to make short work of a plate of ham and cheese with about half a long baguette. "I like this place," he said after downing a glass of fruit juice and two brimming cups of coffee, "I was asking Mr Zedener what the hotel rates were for students." He wrinkled his nose. "I do not want to live in a concrete block and if Waclav shares it should be quite cheap." He would be doing a five-year course to qualify as a doctor and it would quite expensive anyway.

As we left the cafe the Americans were just emerging en masse from the hotel looking not too worse for wear - young frames must have metabolized the alcohol most efficiently! More greetings and whoops of joy when I handed out the tickets. We said we would be ready to go by nine. There was a note for us from Adam. 'Going to Zenda. See you at Airport.' Cutting it fine with the distance!

Anyway, the morning was a real hoot. Bastian was a good swimmer - not up to the standard of the team though - but he joined in and was treated like the team mascot. He had worked out who needed a bit of livening up. That is, livening up to his standard. I'd noted the way a couple of the lads had kept back and were a bit hesitant in displaying themselves - the Strict ones I assumed. The team let them alone but Bastian made it his mission to get them thoroughly sorted. He got them to teach him various tricks of the trade in water polo and soon they were being harried by a very fast learner - or someone who was already in the know. After they'd had their lanky cocks tweaked underwater, not certain who was doing it, they just succumbed to whatever was going to happen and the action got quite fast and furious.

Ethan swam over to us at one point and said very confidentially that pair of tight- assed fuckers had surprised them all. Not only had they taken to the demon drink the night before but had slept the night away in the same bed and he wasn't sure it was because they were drunk and now they were showing off their peckers which were usually kept strictly out of view. Out of view? He then added that they were all praising Cornell for getting his pecker wet with Sheryll Parker. He'd have to get married but his Daddy owned the biggest store in his town and he was going to work for him anyway. Yep, having Cornell pointed out we knew why Sheryll fancied him! Cut, thick and sturdy attached to a muscular swimmer's body!

After the pool we all went up to the grassy knoll. Here more energy was expended as the two frisbees had been handed over by Adam and were hurled from one to the other in a glorious melee of boy flesh. Two less than Strict Baptists were kept on the run and could do nothing about the mounting erections they were showing before long. In fact, all ten of the group, including young Bastian, were rather rampant.

Tris and I were quietly watching and savouring the sight of so much unclothed beauty when up came five more. Our Irregulars, each carrying a plastic bag as well as their small bag of personal possessions. We were greeted formally until Yniold couldn't contain himself. He bowed to Tris and then gave him a hug which meant we both were half- strangled by all of them having a go which only helped our half-hard cocks to get fully erect. This stopped the frisbee game and the team gathered round until all were introduced. They had already seen Tomas and Igor but here were three more charming young buddies. But before play resumed the contents of the bags were distributed. Tomas had had the bright idea, knowing the Americans were a bit short of cash, to get their mothers to supply sandwiches, buns and cakes, enough to make any hungry lad happy. As soon as we were a little more decently flaccid Tris and I went off and ordered enough fruit juices for the lot.

Ethan had come over to sit between Tris and me when the food and drink was being distributed. His nicely-toned body was sweaty but his scent was quite arousing. I noticed Tris had to shift slightly as his instincts also took over as mine had and there had been mutual stirrings in our groins. Not to worry, dear Ethan's prong was semi-hard anyway and he casually batted it as he flopped down on the grass. "Fucker's got a mind of its own," he said and smiled. The stirrings increased and his eyes flicked between the two of us. "This place," he said, "Seems to have an effect on us all." He nodded towards his pal Freddie who was chatting to Yniold and both were sporting a good six inches of hard gristle. "Wouldn't dare to be seen like this at home. Even Freddie's a bit shy there. We've had a coupla circle-jerks but not with those two." He nodded to his left.

I noted Bastian had the taller of his Baptists by his side and he was quite openly stroking the hairy thigh stretched alongside his while talking to him. The lad was just about panting with barely suppressed lust and I wondered if he might have a spontaneous emission as his slim dick was stretched taut up his flat muscular belly. No one was taking any notice except the lad's friend who looked as if he wouldn't mind a bit of the same action.

"Those fuckers' dicks ain't seen the light of day for years," Ethan continued, "Not since their Mammies last changed their diapers, I guess." Although quite tanned both had dead white middles where their Speedos had covered their nakedness. "Ain't seen neither of them nekkid before." He did nod approvingly as he surveyed them.

"Did you meet Freddie at College?" asked Tris, I think as much to divert his thoughts from observing the second Baptist whose erection now matched his pal's having moved up to sit on Bastian's other side.

"Yah," he said, "We both have the same classes. I sat next to him and then I changed dorms so we room together." He smiled. "Same bed," he said quietly.

Ouch! The imagery was getting to me. "Adam told us he'd helped some football players who were in trouble," I said to stop my own unruly member from showing off my seven inches of French/Italian/English heritage, "And he got them through an exam."

Ethan's smile was even more dazzling. "That is one hunky kind dude," he murmured, his head shaking back and forth. "Jed's balls were on line and that sweet guy just gave up his time to help. Jed 'fessed up he jerked off every night thinking of him after he came and visited." He gave a throaty chuckle. "I did, too."

"You and Jed seem very close," I said without 'fessing up' I'd also wanked to images of my hunky cousins many times.

Ethan nodded. "We've always shared a room. And...." He stopped and looked down shyly.

"...Brotherly confidences?" said Tris. "Don't worry, it's common in England, too."

Ethan looked up at Tris and the smile was back. "All over the world, I guess!"

"Has Jed got anyone yet?" I asked.

Ethan shook his head. "Naw, but he's pretty much friendly with one of the wide receivers, but he'll have better chance at grad school next year. He's going to do Law and no football."

I wondered what a wide receiver was. Sounded interesting but American Football was a complete mystery to me. I didn't get a chance to enquire further.

"Not going to look after the farm?" Tris asked.

Ethan shook his head again. "Nor me. Leaving that to Jethro. He's our young brother," he said in explanation. "He's sixteen and he and Daddy talk about the farm all the time." He grinned. "He's the straight one. Caught him fucking Lindy Maggs in the barn on Easter Sunday. At least he had a rubber on not like Cornell!"

Freddie sauntered over, a sandwich in one hand, a bottle of juice in the other and his four inches of softness now drooping over his young plums. Tris patted the grass beside him. In a very limber move Freddie lowered himself and sat cross-legged without moving his arms.

"What's he been telling you?" he asked and grinned at his lover.

"All your guilty secrets," whispered Tris. "How you spent your first night bouncing up and down and broke the bed and then you made him so sore he had to..." His fabrications stopped because Freddie looked so startled.

"You told them that?" he said to an equally startled Ethan who was shaking his head vigorously.

Tris was merciless and was laughing. "Sorry Ethan, I made it up, but it's true isn't it?"

The two lads looked at each other. Ethan luckily saw the funny side and laughed. "Too fuckin' true, eh Freddie? You tell 'em!"

We hadn't noticed Tomas who had walked up behind us and must have heard the interchange. He held his bag of goodies towards Freddie. "We had fat German lady who had fuck and broke bed." Freddie extracted a rather nice looking, slightly larger than his own, plum from the bag. I was glad for him his were not deeply purple as was the fruit! Tomas also did a graceful descent and sat legs stretched out. "Fat man with her fuck off from hospital. No pay for bed! My Uncle say he needs swanze cut off and he do it if he sees him again." Tomas chuckled. "I think her man do it first!"

The two stories had to be told. The boys had essayed their first major sexual encounter in Ethan's bed in the dorm. Unfortunately the bed had a defective leg and before passion could be fully spent there had been an almighty crash. "Hell!" said Freddie, now fully relaxed and with purple juice running down his chin. I had an urge, sadly unfilled, to lick those drops and wondered why I was so fatefully attracted to blonds. My Tris. Definitely both Freddie and Ethan. I had to shift again. The serpent had stirred. "Lucky the dorm was empty that night as all were celebrating some team winning. Made up for it, though, didn't we, Ethan?"

The ball was in his court and he took the lob as well as a rather nicely filled sandwich from Tomas's bag. "Never laughed so much. Two horny jerkers and horns were down." Ethan indicated the droop with his fingers. He took a bite and swallowed. "Not for long." He looked at Tris. "You guessed correct. I was sore." There were grins all round.

I had a bite, too. The sandwich I had was filled with the most delectable smoked meat. I looked at Tomas ready to ask him what it was but he was intent in telling his own tale. "I sore as well. That Igor not tell when he push hard. I no let him do again. Just make handwork."

Freddie and Tris were from the same mould. Freddie was first. "We say 'handjob' but that sounds good, too."

Tomas looked at him and nodded. "I remember that. I tell him tonight I want handjob only, no push, push."

Heaving chests all round as we all savoured the thought and the food.

"What is this?" I asked Tomas, opening the sandwich.

Tomas smiled. "You like?" I nodded fervently. "Good pig in forest. Franzi's father go hunt. Bang, bang. All cut up and hang in cabin with special smoke."

I said it was the best I'd ever tasted. It certainly was better than the usual smoked meats I'd had in the past. Tomas nodded. "No more here. I give you piece for England. You take home." I murmured thanks and finished off the sandwich. Tomas got up, bowed and walked off over to his pals.

Ethan watched his trim body as he walked away. "He's some character. They all are. This place is so different," he mused, "I wouldna told you all that at home. Or about Jed and me. I'll tell you something else. If your cousin had said anything to Jed he would have been there."

"Can I tell Adam that?" I asked.

"Of course. And if he and his friend want to visit they'll be very welcome. My Daddy liked Adam. Said he was very English."

"English and gay. What would your father say?"

"He said he was very English and reminded him of his brother Edgar." He giggled.

I got the message. "And Uncle Edgar?" He nodded. "And what does your father say about you and Jed?"

Freddie was listening with quite a grin on his face. He butted in. "His Daddy says as long as young Jethro provides him with grandchildren it's OK!"

"And young Jethro is practising already?"

"Too fucking right!"

Grins all round again. But it was time for fun anew. One of the lads stood up and thanked the Irregulars and said now that food had gone down he was ready for another match. So said he threw the frisbee high in the air and there was a concerted scramble to catch it. They were off again. "Better join in," said Ethan and he and Freddie were soon in the thick of it.

Tris and I said nothing but moved up closer to each other. We were both watching the interaction between Bastian and the second Baptist during the start of the fairly uncoordinated game.

Bastian was at his side constantly giving him encouraging pats on his butt and in the end that lad disappeared in the direction of the pissoir and I don't think it was to empty a too- full bladder. Boys don't take three and a half minutes to drain the snake! And he came back via the shrubbery so hadn't been to the obvious place. No erection, either. At least for the next ten minutes.

Just before twelve we gathered up a rather sweaty Bastian, said our au revoirs to the Irregulars and our, no doubt, goodbyes to the team and went back to the pool area to shower and dress and to get back to the hotel to collect our bags ready for our transport. Tris went to the cafe‚ and stocked up with a couple of filled rolls each for the plane. I said we would eat much later in Cambridge and texted Charles to invite him, too, as he was collecting us from Stansted.

No problems. There was a parcel addressed to me on the Reception desk. 'Much thankyous Love Tomas' on the note attached. He wasn't in sight but hadn't forgotten. I opened my case quickly and stuffed it in. If there were sniffer dogs at the airport I wondered what would happen. But then a car turned up with Andrei and we were whisked off to Hofbau. Even Adam and Nate were in time to catch the plane and were full of the description of what they'd seen. It was difficult on a crowded plane to shout out about the sights revealed to us, including the lad who had been so worked up he had to go for a wank in the woods and that Adam had been correctly diagnosed or whatever by Jed's Daddy. That would all have to wait until we got the pair on their own. We said cheerio to them as they were going straight to Ulvescott and had to hurry to catch the train to London first.

Charles was waiting for us and as usual, full of bonhomie. Andrei and Bastian were greeted effusively and somehow we and the luggage fitted in the car with me in prime position in the seat next to the driver. I heard that the Bursar was away playing golf somewhere exotic so Charles had free rein. Contractors were in dealing with the upper stories of the sets. The footings were in for the new accommodation to be built at Hampton House. Unfortunately, Sean had decided he preferred working his way up the catering ladder rather than be in the office. Jak and Max were so good and were causing so little upheaval, etc., etc.. Luckily he didn't take his hands off the wheel as he described all this as gestures ordinarily would have accompanied every sentence. And how had we got on? That would have to wait until we were feeding said I, please join us later. I asked if Curt and Logan were around. He thought they were working this evening. I assumed he meant at the Club. So, we arrived at St Mark's in good time and hefted our bags to the two sets.

We deposited Andrei and Bastian first in the set opposite mine - the Servant of the Chapel's set. It had been prepared for them and Liam was there to greet us all. Both goggled when he brought them to my set. I said all would be revealed in the morning but now we needed to eat. The Greek restaurant near St Benet's was agreed by Charles to be a good choice and Jak and Max who were in a room on the next stairway joined us. We promised Bastian we would take him punting in the morning but we would have a quick tour to see King's, Trinity and St John's at least first and then he could see the cellars in the afternoon, Andrei included, of course.

Friday

Cambridge was crowded with tourists and shoppers but the peace of the Chapels at King's and the other two Colleges was welcome. The usual 'Wow' was forthcoming from Bastian as he gazed at the unbelievable ceiling in King's. He more or less had to be dragged away as one of his passions was stained glass and he said he would have to return to take in all that beauty. The statue of Newton in Trinity drew a respectful Rothenian bow from him and he giggled when I showed him Tennyson's pipe craftily depicted in the statue of him. Both had seen the film 'Chariots of Fire' so were very taken with the courtyard of Trinity until we told them the episode of the race had been filmed elsewhere. Bastian shook his head in wonderment as we stood looking into the huge Chapel at John's. "Even in Strelzen we have nothing like this," he whispered.

We hurried along then to find a punt at Magdalene Bridge. Tris was going to propel us. Both Andrei and Bastian were in their element. Tris took us along the Backs as far as Mill Lane. The languorous warmth was so soporific and enervating I found it difficult to keep up my description of what we were seeing. No problem, just looking and watching the other punts and the antics of the occupants was sufficient. We took them back to College to let them savour a lunch in Hall. Dusty and young Steve were serving and the food wasn't bad. At least up to Rodolfer standards!

After lunch Tris left us to pop to the office so leaving us three to have coffee in my set where Bastian opened the secret door. It was then time for his tour of the cellars which Andrei had already seen but wanted another look. Wayne was in charge of the cellar input and slowed the human traffic to allow us almost a private viewing. The look on Bastian's face when confronted with the large-scale depiction of Frankie and the Twins in full glory was quite priceless. "The King was right!" he murmured. We didn't have to ask. Yes, Frankie was depicted as 'well-hung'. Both he and Andrei knelt when they were faced with the replica of the St Guthlac relic. "When you have more time you must come back and see the real one," I said as they reverentially crossed themselves.

Upstairs they wanted to see our Chapel and to hear me play. Sean was there industriously polishing the plenteous brass. They came up to the organ loft and in that quiet atmosphere I played them my favourite, that Alain piece which had so much become my own. When we went down two others were there. Curt and Logan. 'Baron' was introduced to two 'Counts'! I left them to it and went across to my set to get things ready for the weekend. I was making a pot of tea when Jak and Max appeared. They were ready to set off, whenever, but tea and biscuits first.

"Another week and we should have the system so tuned even Adam won't be able to crash it!" Apparently he had caused more than slight discomfort to the pair when he'd accidentally discovered a loophole in their set-up at Ulvescott and the system went down. Actually, they said, he'd done them a good turn as he'd highlighted a possible flaw in coding which they'd altered at some point without realising the consequences.

What a welcome when we got to Ulvescott. Our bit of the family were already there with Francis talking to the elder Dr Thomson in what sounded quite reasonable French. The Arab lads were locked away somewhere with the Sheikh. Dad, Mum and Pugsy were sitting round talking to the younger Dr Thomson and Ibrahim and the remains of tea was being cleared away by no one other than Barry Hall. He said he'd joined the household earlier than planned as there were several functions scheduled for the summer but he was being allowed time off for his trip to Skye. Jak's brother Saf was there with his wife and the two young boys. Bastian was scrutinised carefully by the two kids. The room was reduced to hilarity when a clear young voice announced, "Yes, you could be in the family from your face but we won't know properly until you take your trousers off!" That was to come later!

After a round of introductions, Andrei, Tris and I were led away to a study by the Colonel so he could hear our tale. First though, he told us some things about his work during the Cold War especially and that Mr X as a very young man had come to their attention as being quite ruthless. "His unit almost managed to infiltrate our group in East Berlin, in fact, one of our agents was shot trying to get over the Wall but we managed to cover up his activities." He shook his head. "Unfortunately in a war there are always casualties. Then, after the Wall came down, we found he'd been compromised by X who, luckily for us, hadn't realised the implications as Gunther had full plans of their set-up. We had got those safely from another agent almost immediately." He snorted. "After the Wall was down X tried his hand at being a double agent but he had too much of a record. He was arrested but wriggled his way out and disappeared. I was one of the interrogators. At least I sat in as my German is scanty. He gave us names and we knew they were correct, then he tried lying about others. I have the feeling one of his ex-STASI pals arranged the escape but it was covered up so as not to cause waves. He surfaced now and again but the world, or Europe at least, had moved on." He waved a dismissive hand. "By that time I'd moved on, too, and was interested in other things." He grinned. "You'll have to buy the book to find out more! And then he turns up in Cambridge, but that's your story!"

Andrei had been looking at him with such fascination and before we could start our tale he leaned forward. "Sir, I am very honoured to meet you and to hear you and we have much to tell you. But first, I think you know Brigadier Presilev. He sends his best wishes but I did not dare to ask more."

The Colonel's face lit up. "Young Karl! He was attached to us for about three years when I was dealing with matters in West Germany. Yes! He's risen in the ranks. A Brigadier now? Is he your Commanding Officer?" Andrei nodded and said the officer had just been promoted. "Then you couldn't have a better man." He grinned. "I still keep in touch occasionally even though his English is quite rudimentary!"

Interesting! The connection with the 'reliable source' was now clear!

After that we didn't emerge until pre-dinner drinks were announced and we hadn't finished even then! Frankie had Bastian in tow with the 'labourers' and the younger of Saf's sons was holding Bastian's hand. "He's my cousin," he announced as we emerged from the study. "Are you his big brother?" he asked Andrei who knelt down beside him. "You can help read my story tonight!" The elder boy came across. "They can all take in turns. It's nice to have new people."

His father came up behind him. "Do you mean you're fed up with the rest of us?"

His inheritance must have been the imperious part of the gene. "No, but if they are part of my family everyone must share."

Andrei leaned over and took hold of a hand. "I am very proud to be in your family and you must visit all the others who have found they are now part."

"Yes," the young lad said, looking straight at Andrei, "I know you are in our family. The boy said I would meet a brave soldier and that's you!"

Piers had spoken! Andrei's face broke into a happy smile. "I am only brave because I have to be. It's difficult to be brave." I hadn't noticed he wore a signet ring but he took one off the little finger of his left hand. "This is for you. I think you will be brave, too. A soldier too, perhaps, but you must keep this and wear it when you are bigger."

I think we were all either open-mouthed or overawed by this little interchange. Andrei sounded so sure and the lad wasn't fazed . He took the silver ring and turned it. I spotted that word again - FIDENTIA. "I will keep it safe." He leaned up and gave Andrei a kiss on the cheek. There was nothing more to be said. His younger brother didn't ask why he hadn't been given anything. He bestowed a gift though. He reached up and planted a kiss on Andrei's other cheek. "For you," he said.

Bastian had been watching this quietly. He reached down and hugged the younger boy. Then he held his arms open for the other one. "You will be good and clever," Jeremy announced as Bastian hugged him tight. Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings! But we all knew that messages had been exchanged even if we didn't understand the whole realm of the sources.

Down to business now! Dinner was ready. "You can sit with us," young Jeremy announced and as we went into the dining-room led Bastian and Andrei in either side of him. I know I love succulent lamb but the cutlets tonight were superb with some special sauce I hadn't experienced before. Although we'd had a large bowl of soup with crusty bread to start all plates were clean when the table was cleared after the main course. Dr Thomson said as there were so many youngsters present, and it was also a favourite of his, we could have trifle, or... He didn't finish as there was an almost unanimous murmur of 'Trifle!'. The 'or' was then brought in, too. A stupendous fruit compote. All corners were filled but a selection of cheeses followed, with port for the hardened drinkers, as Jak said. The Chef was called for and Barry emerged. It was his first big evening. He ushered in three under-chefs and explained the sauce was one he had been taught by his Rothenian friend, Jerzy zum Adamszberh, and was produced tonight in honour of the special guests.

Full to the brim we just lounged around and talk between groups just flowed. The little'uns had to go to bed as they had been allowed to stay up for the grand meal. Andrei and Wasim went off with one and Bastian and Kasim with the other. They weren't away long. Small boys full of food and happy fall asleep very quickly.

For the ninetieth time, it seemed, we had to fill in some of our story. Our medals, and Andrei's were appraised. The elder Dr Thomson was told to show his recent honour - a French one awarded for his scholarship and contribution to the understanding of French literature. As usual the subject of the birthmarks was raised and we said we'd promised the young'uns another display would be put on in the morning. All too soon it was time for bed. There was no argument. Andrei and Bastian would share Piers' room; somehow Francis, Pugsy, Waz and Kaz would all be sleeping in the Horsebox. But first, the picture gallery and family tree on the wall in Piers' room had to be seen. Again, I had that feeling of great peace as the younger Dr Thomson explained it all to the newcomers.

"Andrei and Bastian," he said pointing to the large branching tree, "You and your family will appear here soon. On behalf of us all we welcome you with open hearts and you still have more to meet."

More to meet! Yes, we'd heard that Jak and Saf's parents would be arriving in the morning. "My brother James says all the merrier," Dr Thomson said, "More places to spend holidays!"

Saturday

Tris and I were in the African Room and, as usual, I slept well knowing our unseen friends were there. At breakfast it was all the younger end present to begin with. Naturally, Tris and I were down first dying for the first cup of coffee for the day. Barry was supervising the preparation in the kitchen and said he couldn't think of being anywhere else. He'd been in situ for a fortnight so far and was being given more and more responsibility as the usual head chef was thinking of retiring. "Monsieur Pierre is teaching me so much and the other lads are excellent. I just hope I'm up to the standard they know." All we could say was how good everything was the night before. That standard was the tops!

I asked if the household he'd just left were coping OK without him. He laughed and said he thought a combination of Jacob's cooking and Marks and Spencers' ready meals was just about keeping them going. Tris said if they were really desperate they could see if Curt would be a useful lodger. "Never thought of that," Barry said, "Seriously, though, he's a very good cook. Cheffie used to let him loose while I was in the kitchen and he never made any mistakes." He grinned. "He'd certainly liven the place up. I'll phone Jacob later and suggest it."

"They'd get Logan, too," I said, "He keeps the tyke in order!"

Barry nodded. "I think the pair of them would make a very good team." He laughed. "And if Logan's doing Engineering there's plenty of jobs to be done. The central heating needs a good seeing to and there's masses of electrical stuff plugged in all over the place. Paul's got a workshop at the back of the big garage and loves making things so someone to help would be ideal." He nodded again. "Yep, they keep saying they want to extend and have a couple more bedrooms so another couple in the bungalow would probably get them working on it. I know they've had Charles in to see if the College architects would do some designing. Let's get breakfast over and I'll get on to it!"

While we were eating and talking I texted Curt. It was a rather long message and I had to do it in two bits. I said we'd spoken to Barry, would it be a good idea? etc. etc. Tris said to add that Logan would be included in the package as his gravy and custard were ideal.

Gradually the others filtered in. Waz and Kaz looking even more relaxed than they had been after being closeted with the Sheikh. They said they were having another session with him today and he was helping them to understand what their role in the future of their country might be. They said they knew now they had been singled out. They exchanged looks at that but didn't elaborate.

Tris asked if they liked being back at work. Wasim laughed. "Frankie's in charge again. He told Martin that he didn't think the new footings were quite right because his dumper was taking fewer loads. Martin measured again and Frankie was right. The sub- contractor had marked them out wrongly. Martin says he'd do much better in the building trade than fiddling about with organs."

Kasim said he was enjoying the actual physical labour. "We've had everything done for us in the past and I feel so much better for doing something active. His Excellency says we can stay here in vacations if we wish and he's got plenty for us to do here. We'd better see if Frankie and Tony want to come here as well."

Our chat was interrupted then by that pair. Frankie was instructing Pugsy about some excursion round the estate he was planning for them for the morning. "I promised Jeremy you would take him and little Andrew and the dog to see the stone in the churchyard. You can take Waz and Kaz as well and then you can all have a swim later..." He saw us sitting there. "...Hi, folks. Just getting organised for the morning. Dr Thomson wants to hear me play and I can't have you all sitting around idle." He grimaced. "I've forgotten Andrei and Bastian. Haven't heard a sound from their room. You can see to them." This last directed at Tris and me. "We need breakfast, don't we Pugs?"

He gave me and Tris the usual 'I'm resigned to the gab-fest' look and sat next to me. "What a place," he said quietly, "That room we're in is a bit strange but I feel so at home here, it's uncanny." He shook his head. "Dad's not important in my life anymore. I know I'm OK and I've never got to think of him again. It's almost as if I've shed a skin." He put a hand out - a quite rough and calloused hand now - and grasped mine. "I've so much to thank you and Tris and the rest of your families for. I don't think I would have survived otherwise. I would have probably ended up harming the bugger even more. At least he got away with just a bloody nose and bruised ribs!" He squeezed my hand. "I know I've been forgiven. I've been told. Yes, I must not waver just like you were told somewhere else."

Frankie and the other two had been listening. Frankie put an arm round his friend's shoulder. "Pugs, you'll never waver," he said very sincerely, "I'm proud to have you as a friend. Just make sure I don't make any mistakes."

Wasim smiled at Pugsy. "We would be proud to have you as a friend, too. I think we are. I will make you blush but His Excellency told us yesterday that you remind him of his friend the Colonel though you are so much bigger! He meant, I am sure, his strength of character. I think we will be friends for a long time and you must guide us, too. We know, we have been told."

Poor Pugsy. He looked rather bewildered. Yes, I knew what the Sheikh meant. There was something solid, reliable, trustworthy in Antony Pugsley. A certain shyness to overcome but someone who could lead and be honest in their dealings.

"You know, Tony," said Kasim, "We've had to deal with who we are and you will have to deal with who you will be. It may be hard but with your friends you'll succeed. I will be a friend if you will let me."

A real hush seemed to be around us. Not an embarrassed sort of hush but a sense of quiet and of things said and, perhaps, only partially understood. Pugsy sat back and nodded and looked at his three main buddies, one he'd known for some time, the other two just a matter of weeks. Yes, there was a feeling of a true comradeship being fostered. It would be interesting to find out more about Wasim and Kasim.

But to breakfast and any other plans for the day. Andrei and Bastian hadn't surfaced by the time Tris and I had finished so we wandered up and went through from the Horsebox to the intervening bathroom and listened at the door which was ajar. We could hear the pair talking together softly. Tris knocked and opened the door.

"May we come in?" he asked.

Two rather solemn faces broke into smiles. Andrei beckoned us in. They were dressed and sitting on the window-seat side by side. They stood as we entered and we got hugs of greeting.

"Please," Andrei said, "We have much to tell and you might be able to explain some things. Please sit with us."

Yes. Quite separately they had had similar dreams. The golden-haired boy was there. We explained this was the Colonel's younger brother, known as Flea.

"He was a very brave pilot," said Tris, "He died quite young. Not flying or anything like that, he was ill. Anyone else?"

Andrei looked startled. "You know?"

"Piers would have been there, too. Perhaps with Miles in the background." Tris stood up and went over to the desk in the corner of the room and opened the drawer containing the diaries. He picked out the last two and handed one to Andrei, the other to Bastian.

"These are his," said Andrei, "I know. I can feel it."

"He told me how brave my brother was and will be and I must be studious as I have my way mapped for me," said Bastian, softly. "Andrei may have seen St Fenice but I have heard your Piers."

"Tonight," said Andrei, "You must join us in here. We heard of others who have slept here and have made their vows of friendship. Many have and we must, too."

Yes, Jak and Max had told us of the influence of the room and its inhabitants on them and on others going back to at least three generations.

"We will be bonded in the family," Andrei added. "My brothers and families must come here as well. Dr Thomson said last night all are welcome." He smiled. "I must phone my mother this morning."

We said breakfast was still being served and surely they were hungry? We would then explore the house, have a swim and talk to the live inhabitants. "No Baptists to tweak in the pool," I said. Bastian had to confess to Andrei about his persecution of the pair. He'd also noted the disappearance and leaned over and whispered something to Andrei in Rothenian.

"You must say that out loud, in English. You naughty boy!" said Andrei winking at us over Bastian's bowed head.

Bastian sat up straight, lightly red about the gills. "I just said the boy had to relieve himself."

Tris, the ever pedantic - no, just didactic! - said that 'to relieve oneself' meant 'to pass water', but the boy took much longer and was not in the pissoir so...

"...He had a wank!" said Bastian loudly and his brother playfully swatted his back.

"Where did you learn such words?" his brother quizzed him.

He did go bright red then. "I have read stories. In English." The imp or Krote surfaced. The blush disappeared. "To improve my English!" he said looking directly at his brother. "You did not clear your History one time at home." It was Andrei's turn to blush but he just laughed.

"And what else did you learn?"

The nose wrinkled. "Some boys are bigger than you!" He giggled. "I think they alter the photographs. Do not worry, you are big enough!"

He got another swat and then a hug. "You must not tease Klaus like you tease me."

The nose twitched again. "I tease him anyway. He is quiet and I do not think he looks at rude things. He may but he has passwords to enter." He looked at me. "I must ask the big one. Max. He can tell me how to find a way. I expect Klaus looks at other things." He made rapid gestures of voluptuous shapes. "He is not gay I know."

Andrei looked heavenwards. "Family secrets." He shook his head. "He has talked to me. He has had to make up his mind. A long time thinking but he is very fond of Madeleine. I think he will ask her soon."

"Good," said Bastian, "He can get married in the Palace Chapel. I will be a page-boy with Marek." He laughed. "Frankie can be one, too. There are plenty of uniforms. I will ask Marek to tell his father..."

Andrei put up a hand. "...Hold it," he said, "He hasn't asked her yet."

Bastian smirked. "I think he will ask today. You wait. There will be a message!"

We went down and we waited while they ate. My mobile pinged. Message back from Curt. 'It would be a privilege to be considered'. My, my, a very serious Curt and thinking of his future. A second ping and it was Logan. 'He will talk to the Master this morning.' Yes, his Godfather for advice. I think that would be 'Take it if offered!'.

After they had finished we spent time wandering upstairs, looking at the Horsebox and Piers' room more closely and going further up into the attics and just talking to each other. We didn't find time for a swim as at eleven there was coffee served and the younger Dr Thomson showed Andrei and Bastian a copy of the illustrated book. Bastian's eyes nearly popped when the frontispiece was displayed just as the elder Dr Thomson came into the study with Frankie and said it was him in younger days. There was laughter then as the illustrations with bits of Dr Francis Thomson and his brother were shown. "You met Nicholas Good at Burns Night," Francis Thomson said and pointed at a very well appointed set of tackle, "He is very proud of that page!"

"Anyone would be," breathed Tris, "I didn't know that was him when I was shown the book before. If I'd known I might have asked for a demonstration..."

He stopped, realising the older Dr Thomson was still present. No worry. Both roared. "I think Andrew might have objected," Francis Thomson said, "Nick belongs to him!"

We were invaded then by the return of the younger ones all looking slightly damp but glowing. Young Jeremy saw his great-uncle Francis closing the book. "I suppose you have been laughing again?" he said, "I think the pictures are very good."

"When have you seen them?" his great-uncle asked.

"Several times," he said, "I always come in here when I am here with Flea and I look at that book as well." He pointed at a copy of 'Paul's Odyssey' also on the desk. "I can read most of the words now."

Francis Thomson turned and looked at his father. The elder Dr Thomson bent down to the boy. "Who told you his name is Flea?"

"He did, Grandpa. A long time ago. When I was very small. I always wait for him when I go to sleep."

The two older men exchanged looks. Bastian reached out and held the little boy's hand. "I have met Flea as well. He must love us very much to come and tell us things."

The boy's smile was heavenly. "He loves all of us. He tells this Francis things, too, doesn't he?" This directed at my brother.

Frankie dropped to his knees by the boy. "Yes," he said, "And we must listen carefully to what he says, mustn't we?"

"Me too," said the smaller boy, young Andrew. "He has my name, too." He looked slightly puzzled. "Or do I have his name?"

The elder Dr Thomson smiled. "He was named Andrew as well, just like you. We called him Flea because he was small and very lively. But you share the name with Uncle Andrew as well. Andrew is a family name now, like Francis. You are all part of the family."

Bastian looked across at his brother Andrei. "Andrei, Andrew! It is the same," he said. He shook his head and looked at the elderly man. "It is so strange. You must explain everything, please? We need to know." He looked even more puzzled than the small boy.

Dr Thomson smiled. "I can't explain. It is something within our family. You are part of us and you have been accepted. You have been told?" Both Andrei and Bastian nodded. "Then take it as a gift. A gift that does not have to be repaid except in acts of love and friendship." He pointed at Pugsy standing at the back. "I think you have been told as well." A silent, observing Pugsy nodded slowly. "What we experience here is a force for good. I have more than benefited over the years. I feel that force as strongly now, if not stronger, than I did on my early visits to this house. Then it was Piers and Miles but now they have been joined by my lovely friend, my Flea. I know some of you have also experienced another great force, too. We cannot explain. Accept and be accepted."

"I will," said Andrei putting his hand on his brother's shoulder.

"I will," said Bastian, very firmly. He reached out again, this time with both hands and put them on the small boys' shoulders.

"I will," they said simultaneously.

It was strange that sense of timelessness seemed to be with us again. A silence broken only by the ticking of the grandfather clock in the corner of the room. The clock whirred and struck the half-hour. Time happened again! I think we had all mentally, or under our breath, repeated 'I will'.

Jeremy looked up at Bastian. "You can come with me to see the stone. We will take some flowers. We forgot to take them earlier." He smiled. "And Andrei can bring Andrew."

Time flew then. Mum and Dad had already gone off to see a church with wall- paintings with Adam and Nate and said they would be back in time for lunch. The boys went off leaving the elder Dr Thomson with Frankie, Tris and me. He wanted to hear more about our adventures and especially about my recital and wanted to hear me play, too. Even with just the dozen or so stops on the two-manual organ I was able to give a good performance of the Alain. I played several other pieces from the substantial cabinet of books by the side of the organ. While I was playing the last piece the Sheikh and the two lads came into the room.

"Don't stop," he said, leaning heavily on his stick, "When Jacko plays I find my memories flood back." He smiled, his eyes twinkling behind his spectacles. "My happy memories." He looked at Wasim and Kasim. "I have written as much as I can remember. You must promise me you will read and learn." Both bowed their heads and put their hands together. Two others whose destinies were mapped , I thought.

We sat and talked a bit more. The Sheikh explained a bit about how Safar and Khaled, his sons, had been kidnapped. It was fascinating hearing his side of the story. How he had to cope with the knowledge that his sons might be killed if he did not agree to the threats of the man who wanted to be ruler but had plotted his own destruction. He said his friendship with Lachlan was even deeper after the rescue and they had worked together on numerous other occasions.

On the return of the group looking at the memorial stone Jeremy said it was time for Andrei and Bastian to be photographed for the picture gallery in Piers' room. A line-up of that pair with young Andrew, plus Frankie and me, all in short shorts was supervised by Jeremy. I could see he was a younger version of the Toad as he loved organising. All was done and Tris promised he would print off photos or send jpegs to all and sundry.

After another superb lunch Tris and I managed to corner Frankie while Pugsy and the Arab lads were going off to look at the craft shops on the edge of the estate..

"Just as a matter of interest..." Tris began as the trio disappeared.

"...I know what you're going to ask," said Frankie, "You've been itching to ask ever since you first met them, eh?"

We both managed wan smiles. Francis was certainly on the ball.

"All I'll say...," he continued, "...Is that they enjoy each other's company. They sleep together and have done so since they went to the school in Switzerland when they were thirteen. Pugs and I have had lots of conversations with them about all sorts of things and they admit they have tried things out together but they are not gay." He smiled. "They say all young Arabs are quite uninhibited about showing friendship by holding hands. You should see Pugsy when he's holding forth and Waz or Kaz is holding his hand, he's getting quite Arabian!" Frankie shook his head. "It's as if we've all been friends for yonks. We took them up to see the Lion King with Bozo and Harpo and the four of them sat in a row all holding hands and enjoying just being together. What we did find out is they have to get married and that quite soon. Their society is quite closed in many ways and it was the Sheikh who told their fathers to send them to Switzerland. I get the impression he has more than one finger in a rather complicated pie! Sorry, but there's no other way to say it!"

We both nodded. "And you and them?" probed Tris.

"Not telling!" That remark told it all, though. All, not gay, but....

That night Tris and I followed Andrei and Bastian into Piers' room after another long evening of convivial chat. Nothing more than holding and caressing each other with Andrei and I in the most loving embrace. He whispered that he hoped he might be able to bring Lucasz here. Somewhere where he knew they could renew their vows of love and friendship. As we held each other I could feel the warmth of his body and then the almost simultaneous outflow of our love sealing us as members of this so-wide family. Tris and Bastian beside us were experiencing the same intensity of feeling. I heard them whispering together but couldn't make out what they were saying. They were silent for a few moments, then there were gasps as their juices flowed. I think we all slept a while before partners were exchanged.

As I stroked his back Bastian was feverishly whispering how much he wanted to tell Tris and me of his love for us. He needed our love as well as that of his brothers. "That little boy said he loved me as well when I read to him last night. I hope I can love someone like Waclav, too. Real love, like this." We were silent then, just two bodies, or souls perhaps, united. My, my, for a seventeen-year-old Bastian was well-developed because as two engorged, wanton cocks rubbed together, he just about matched mine if not in length but in girth. He then beat me as what erupted from his young monster squirted up between us and coated my chest hair with quite a copious amount. My effusion joined his and we fell asleep holding each other tightly, first sharing our mingled offerings from fingers which had mixed those streams. "We've shared our love," he whispered as we kissed and fell contentedly asleep.

Sunday

We were awake early. The four of us were so happy. Andrei said the past two nights had released him from any residual shock he had felt after the shooting. He confessed he'd had some sleepless nights reliving the drama as he had felt so responsible for our safety. When he'd been back to see the doctor at the hospital for a check-up he'd said he must expect to get flashbacks from such a traumatic occurrence. "I'm prepared now for whatever might happen in the future. I think I will have to cope with a lot more quite soon. But, I have been told..."

A big group of us went for a long walk during the morning exploring the estate and the surrounding country lanes. Tris and I walked for a while with James Thomson, the solicitor, and his wife. He said he had many tales to tell about the place and never tired making the journey to visit. "You still have many more to meet," he said to me, "Diane and I are going to the States in August to see my second cousin, Truscott, and his wife. He's larger than life and that's a real understatement! I leave you to work out your relationship to him! His brother lives in France so that's another place to visit for you. A big villa which belonged to Uncle Tony." He laughed. "Now with the others joined to the family Dad's going to have his work cut out enlarging the tree."

I said that there was a possibility of another link between my line and Andrei's.

"Yes, Adam's asked me about that," he said. "I'm asking our researcher to explore it. It shouldn't take long and we know the connection is Scottish. Charteris and Foster. Shouldn't be difficult."

This family web seemed formidable!

That walk set us up very nicely for lunch and a rather comatose afternoon. It was while most people were snoozing or just chatting that Andrei said he'd just looked at his flight ticket again and their flight back wasn't until Tuesday afternoon, he'd given Bastian the wrong date when he was on the computer booking it. Not to worry as long as Bastian was back in time for the levee on Thursday. That meant we could visit the Guthlac Relic on Monday. But, as Nate pointed out, the Fitzwilliam Museum was closed on a Monday. Nothing ventured, he phoned Dr Masterton who said no problem, she would be in her office there at two o'clock and Andrei and Bastian could have a private viewing. It would also mean we could fill her in with all the details of what had been found in Strelzen. A quick call to the hotel booked Bastian a room for Tuesday and Wednesday instead as he said if he stayed there the lads could take him to the Spa, but, if he stayed with Marek and his parents, he wouldn't be allowed to go. Andrei gave him a look. "I will behave," he said and butter wouldn't melt!

Departures came all too soon. After a substantial tea we said cheerio to Mum, Dad and the lads who all managed to squeeze into the roomy estate car. "Work tomorrow," said Pugsy as he prodded Kasim in the back as he got into the car, "Work off some of that good food. Must say they live well."

Kasim turned to his friend. "So will you. Now, get in the front with Uncle Gordon because you'll take up too much room in the back!"

Oh, so Dad was Uncle Gordon!

As I said cheerio to Dad he was nodding towards the interior of the laden car. "Thought when you went off to St Mark's I'd only have your little brother to contend with but look what I'm landed with now!"

A quiet voice from the back. "But we all love you!" It was Wasim, egged on by Mum, no doubt.

Monday

That night more love was shed. We four slept together again and our powerful friendship and kinship was consolidated twice more. We all woke early and decided to have a quick shower then a swim before breakfast. No swimming costumes as no one else was around. After being assaulted twice by an underwater monster I grabbed him as he surfaced for air. As both Tris and Andrei had also received his attentions we told him about how we had tickled for trout with Stepan. That lithe young trout squawked and squirmed as we demonstrated methods, joined by his brother as well. Poor lad then demonstrated something we had witnessed at other times, that teenagers cannot contain themselves even if they had shed at least two loads the night before! Luckily the coagulating strands were sucked away by the filtering equipment. We quickly showered off and rushed upstairs to dress ready for breakfast. Of course, Jak and Max were already eating.

"Of course, young boys can't be relied on to vacate warm beds," said Max airily waving a piece of toast and marmalade with a look of mock disdain on his face.

"Four in a bed, disgusting," added Jak dipping a toast soldier into a boiled egg.

"Could have been six if you had joined us," said Tris, pouring four cups of steaming coffee as the others of us chose our cereals. "Though you'd've probably snored after all that cold meat and pickle you had for supper, Max. Good appetite to keep your strength up? Or anything else up?"

"Don't you start again, young sir. You'll give our guests the wrong impression of us," he said holding out an empty cup to be filled as well.

Andrei looked over to him as he put two large spoons of sugar in the cup. "You like your coffee hot, strong and sweet. Just like him?" He indicated Jak.

"Bugger me," said Max softly, grinning, "Got the bloody foreign lot at it now. I get enough from Adam especially after he pooped on our system."

Jak laughed. "Saved us a good few quid though if a client had had the misfortune to do the same." He turned to Andrei who had sat beside him. He put a hand down and squeezed his thigh just above the knee. Andrei winced and almost dropped the spoonful of Rice Krispies he was about to put in his mouth. "Wow, you've got a nice bit of muscle there." He winked at him. "Thanks for the compliment. But you're hot, you're strong." He leaned over and gave Andrei a pursed-lip little kiss on the cheek. "And you're tho werry thweet yourthelf!" he said in a good imitation of Violet Elizabeth Bott.

Breakfast was punctuated then by giggles as Jak and Max told us several rather stupid jokes. "All off the Internet," said Jak asking Bastian "What's the difference between pink and purple?" He shook his head. "The grip!" Groans from the rest of us as Jak held up two clenched fists one on top of the other! After "Why do squirrels swim on their backs?" and a chorused "To keep their nuts dry!" from Tris and me they were told to shut up, much, I think, to Bastian's disappointment.

To be continued: