Purpose

by  Julie O.

Edited by Amelia R.  &  Tyrone Slothrop
Background information on Santorini  by  Steffen M.

 

Chapter One

Hallie Thorn Pappadimos sat at the desk in her bedroom and studied the large topographical map of Crete that lay in front of her. Since purchasing it in the fall she frequently spent hours reviewing every detail, especially the area on the northeast coast near the town of Aghios Nikolaos. She had told Kim, her girlfriend, that it was important to be intimately familiar with the area of the impending archeological dig, but that wasn't the entire truth. The map also helped her concentrate on the whirlwind of information that was trapped in her mind.

There were many times when she took a deep breath and concentrated on everything that had happened to her in the past year. Just before the previous summer, she had been Harry Thorn, a first year grad student in the archeology department. Then came the fateful trip to Maine for the study of some mysterious Minoan objects.

Thanks to an overly ambitious fellow grad student, Harry had been transformed into her present form of Hallie. It was much more than a gender change, she had also undergone a thorough cultural transformation. To the casual observer she looked convincingly Mediterranean. Adopting her professor's last name, many thought she was Greek, but Hallie suspected that she was Minoan.

The transformation was positive in many ways. She was now, for all practical purposes, the adopted daughter of Alex and Carla Pappadimos. For the first time in her life, Hallie felt truly and unconditionally loved. Harry's parents had never really been all that giving or close. They had divorced years earlier and neither seemed to really want Harry.

Hallie had told her parents that she was having a sex change and they had accepted her story. She hadn't seen either one since her transformation. Her mother had explicitly asked her not to visit to avoid the embarrassment. Her father continued to pay her tuition, which was some solace.

Hallie remembered the phone call when she'd told him she was changing her name, and to her total surprise he took it calmly, as if he did not mind it at all.

"Well, you might as well start with a clean slate. I'm glad you're keeping Thorn, even if it won't be your last name," stated Richard Thorn.

"I'm pleased you approve," replied Hallie.

"Hallie, I'm just happy that you're content. I've never been much of a father." He paused for a moment, as if to collect his thoughts.

"Oh, when you get a chance, you ought to research our family heritage. We Thorns haven't always been law abiding citizens, but we've led some interesting lives," continued Richard in that slightly uncomfortable openness a parent begins to use with an adult child

"I'd like to do that some day."

Hallie knew about a few of her relations. She had been named after a distant relative who had sailed with Sir Francis Drake. Some historical accounts described him as a pirate.

"Your new last name is definitely interesting. It sounds vaguely familiar," continued Richard.

"I like it," replied Hallie.

"Wait a minute! I know where I've heard that name before, it's from The Guns of Navarone!" exclaimed Richard. "That was last name of James Darren and Irene Papas' characters."

Hallie laughed along with him. "That's right. I hadn't thought about that before."

"Now that was a great movie," remarked Richard. "Changing the subject, how's your mother?"

Hallie sighed.

"That good, huh?" asked Richard.

"She still thinks I'm doing this as an act of rebellion," replied Hallie.

"Let me guess, she's worried what her friends will think!" remarked Richard.

"That's right," answered Hallie.

"I hope you find happiness, Hallie. Neither of us were great parents. You're an adult and obviously you've thought about your decision, so who am I to object? I just want you to know that I'll continue to pay for your education."

"Thank you…Dad," replied Hallie. She wiped a tear away from her cheek.

"No, problem. So when are you heading to Egypt?"

"It's Crete, and we're leaving in a few weeks."

"Oh, that's right! I was in Crete once… let me think… oh, yes, it was over twenty years ago. It was before you were born. We were filming a war movie there. Well, have fun and if you find anything interesting let me know. I might be able to work it into a movie," remarked Richard.

Hallie smiled to herself. "I'll keep that in mind." She wondered who might be cast as her if they did make a movie about her transformation.

Hallie found it ironic that she had talked more to her father since she'd been transformed than in the previous ten years combined. She thought about visiting him sometime. The last time she had seen him, she had been a freshman in high school. She wondered if her father would notice that she was shorter and had different colored eyes now.

Kim snapped her out of her daydreams.

"Earth to Hallie, come on, we're going to be late!" shouted Kim.

Hallie glanced at her watch and saw that Kim was right. They were having dinner with Alex and Carla that evening.

"And try to put on a skirt tonight!" added Kim, as she entered Hallie's room.

"Yes, dear!" replied Hallie, with a laugh.

While she accepted her transformation, Hallie still wasn't totally into dressing in women's clothing. Kim constantly was pushing her to dress more appropriately. Deep down, Hallie didn't mind Kim's needling her about her appearance, as she knew that Kim did it because she loved her so much.

"I'll wear one, but only if you take me to bed when we get home!" replied Hallie.

Kim laughed. "Deal! I was planning on doing that anyway." She then leaned over and kissed Hallie.

Chapter Two

They shared a condominium just north of campus which Kim's father had bought when he realized that it would be cheaper than renting an apartment. Although Kim was from New Jersey, her father and mother were both alumni of Ohio State.

 

Alex and Carla lived south of campus in a refurbished brick house. Being that the weather was so nice, Hallie and Kim decided to walk. They crossed Lane Avenue and headed across campus.

Since Hallie's transformation, Kim had also changed greatly. Back then, she was very shy and seemed to be only interested in her studies. While still devoted to her education, she was now much more outgoing and social.

Kim had known she was a lesbian since high school, but Hallie was her first long term relationship. It had been good for both of them. Hallie had someone to help her adapt to her new life, and Kim broke out of her protective shell.

Kim had also changed physically. As she helped Hallie adapt to living as a woman, she updated her own look. From her hair to her clothes, Kim now paid more attention to her own appearance. Her hair, now styled in a short-layered look, had been lightened her from her original dark brown at Hallie's insistence. She had to admit that she really liked her new look, so much so that she even ditched her glasses for corrective surgery.

"I hope you don't mind walking," remarked Kim, " but I figured we wouldn't find a parking spot near their house anyway."

"I don't mind. It's so nice today," answered Hallie.

It was a beautiful late spring evening and many students were out enjoying it.

"I like the skirt you selected," stated Kim, as she snuggled her arm around Hallie's waist.

Hallie was wearing a long green, floral pattern skirt. "Thank you."

As they passed other students on the way across campus, they got a few gazes. Hallie had sort of gotten used to the stares that they sometimes got. The occasional slurs still pissed her off. She was so tempted to tell them that they weren't really lesbians, as she used to be a guy.

"I saw Lane today, she asked me to say hi," remarked Kim.

Hallie just nodded. Lane was the girl who had been responsible for her transformation.

"Do you mind that she's going to Crete with us?" asked Kim.

Hallie shrugged her shoulders. "I have mixed feelings. She's responsible for what happened to me. I still churn with anger that she drugged and raped me. I'll never be able to trust her."

Hallie looked at her partner wistfully "Still, if it hadn't been for her, you and I wouldn't be together."

"Lane's smart and a good researcher, but I just can't trust her. But I somehow don't want to see her get hurt either," continued Hallie.

"Well, I know she's still doing her penance."

They began to cross The Oval, the large grassy area in the middle of campus. Crisscrossed with sidewalks it was a popular place to hang out. Several squirrels carefully watched Hallie and Kim, playing a long shot on them having peanuts.

"That's good," sighed Hallie after a long pause.

She was suddenly distracted by a woman pushing a stroller with a baby about six-months old.

"Thank you," replied the woman.

"What's her name?" asked Hallie.

"Alyce."

They talked to the woman for a few minutes before continuing on to Alex and Carla's home.

"You're becoming more and more fascinated with children," remarked Kim.

"I know. I'm positive it's something to do with my change. I just wish I knew what their ultimate plan for me was," answered Hallie.

Kim didn't have to ask who Hallie was talking about. She was referring to the entities or goddesses who had transformed her.

"You any closer to understanding all the information they gave you?" asked Kim.

"No. I still get bits and pieces. I know that my increasing maternal instincts are part of it, but I don't know why. I have the strange feeling that everything will become clear when we get to Crete," answered Hallie.

They reached the end of campus and were just a few blocks from their destination.

"I just want you to know that if you want to have a baby, I'm totally cool with it," remarked Kim.

Hallie smiled and leaned over and kissed Kim on the cheek. "Thanks."

"Are you still on birth control?"

"No. The pills make me sick," she answered.

"Was that the new prescription?" asked Kim.

"Yes. I wish I didn't need them. I love you so much, but I have these damn feelings," replied Hallie.

Kim nodded. "I know that you like guys too. It's no big deal. Besides, you've never acted on them."

Hallie nodded. "I know, but the urges get stronger all the time."

"That's why they invented vibrators!" giggled Kim.

Hallie laughed. "I promise that I'll tell you if I do give in to my carnal urges."

"Carnal urges? Since when did you start using big terms like that?" laughed Kim. "Seriously, I know that this can't be easy for you. It must be really confusing. I'm here for you and I trust you."

"Confusing is a major understatement," replied Hallie. "Thank you." They kissed again.

They walked up the porch steps of Alex and Carla's home.

"I wonder what Carla has for us tonight," remarked Kim.

"I don't know, but I already have a workout planned for tomorrow morning over at Larkins Hall." Larkins Hall was the campus gym.

Chapter Three

"Welcome!" greeted Alex, meeting them at the front door.

Hallie and Kim each hugged him.

"I assume Carla's in the kitchen," stated Hallie.

He broke out in a broad smile. "Of course. Go right in, I know she could use your help. I'm going to check on the coals."

Carla fixed a large tossed salad, which complimented the main course of grilled chicken breasts, green beans, and cornbread.

"The only thing about going to Crete that bothers me is that I couldn't grow a garden this summer," sighed Carla. "When we retire to Maine, I plan on having a garden every summer, weather permitting!"

"I'll build you a greenhouse," promised Alex.

"I'm holding you to that!" replied Carla. She then leaned over and kissed him.

Hallie smiled at how much in love Carla and Alex were. She hoped that she and Kim would have as long and as happy a relationship.

The upcoming dig in Crete was the discussion over dinner.

"I talked to Stefanos and he said that Theo will be assisting us," announced Alex.

"Who's Theo?" asked Hallie.

"Stefanos' son," answered Alex.

"So he's going by Theo these days? The last time I saw him he wanted to be called Theon," remarked Carla with a smile.

Alex shrugged his shoulders. "I think he goes by Theon only when he's in Crete."

Alex then went on to describe Theon Galios. Theon was thirty and was a well-respected freelance writer and photographer. His degrees were in archeology and his articles often focused on threatened historical sites.

"Here's a photo of Stefanos and Theon. I think this was taken two years ago," stated Carla, as she handed Hallie and Kim a framed photograph.

The photo showed an older bald man with his arm around the shoulders of a handsome young man. Both had mustaches and it was obvious to even the most casual observer that they were father and son. Stefanos' weathered face was a history of the many years he had spent unearthing the history of his country. Hallie couldn't wait to hear some of his stories.

"Theon's writings have upset a lot of people over the years," remarked Alex.

"He looks like he can handle himself," commented Kim, as she looked at the photo.

"I think that runs in the family. Stefanos' father was a smuggler. I only met him once and even then he was quite formidable," stated Alex.

"Ohhh, a story!" chorused Kim and Hallie.

"Wait until I bring out dessert," interrupted Carla.

Over homemade Dutch apple pie and vanilla ice cream, Alex told them about Stefanos' father, Ulysses. He had started out as a fisherman, but quickly discovered that smuggling was far more profitable, and less backbreaking. When the German occupied his homeland, he turned partisan. As a major thorn in the side of the Nazis he soon earned a huge price on his head using his smuggling skills to help people escape and to bring in contraband. After the war he stayed with smuggling. Because he was a hero during the war, and he stayed away from drugs, weapons, and antiquities, the authorities turned a blind eye to his activities.

"He grew quite wealthy dealing in black-market cigarettes and alcohol. However, he didn't want his only remaining son to follow in his footsteps, so he sent Stefanos off to college," stated Alex.

"Only remaining son?" asked Kim.

"Yes, Stefanos had three older brothers, all were killed during the war," answered Alex, as he took a sip of his coffee. "Stefanos was very young at the time. His mother and brothers were killed in retaliation for attacks by the resistance."

"How awful!" declared Hallie.

"Ulysses personally tracked down, captured, and executed the officer responsible. Stefanos told me that it was a matter of personal honor. To the Cretans, honor is everything," continued Alex.

"Many smugglers swore eternal allegiance to Ulysses and his family," added Carla.

"Stefanos still uses his connections among the smugglers. He uses them to locate pillaged antiquities."

"I can't wait to meet him," remarked Kim.

"Does he know about the dildo?" asked Hallie.

Alex shook his head. "I didn't think it was necessary at the moment. It will be your decision to tell him. I fully believe that you can trust Stefanos."

"I think you can trust Theon too. He may be a reporter, but he's also Stefanos' son," added Carla.

Hallie nodded. "I just hope we can find something that allows us to translate Linear H." Deep down she knew that something was there. Over the past few months, she had begun to feel as if she was being drawn to the dig site.

"Stefanos promises that we'll have full access to the site. He told me that the latest attempt to stop the dig failed," remarked Alex.

"Is that creepy hotel owner still causing problems?" asked Carla.

Alex nodded.

Carla frowned. "Has Stefanos found out anything new about…oh, what's his name, I keep forgetting."

"Konstantin Jaeger. All that Stefanos knows about him is that he's very wealthy and very secretive. I've asked an old friend to see if they have more info about him."

Hallie smiled when Alex said "old friend." He was referring to someone in the intelligence community. Alex had admitted to assisting them once. Hallie didn't mind as she suspected that they had also helped in the change of her personal documents.

"Do you think he's dangerous?" asked Kim.

"Konstantin hasn't done anything yet, but he's angry that his resort maybe held up due to the dig. I think for now he'll try to fight the dig in court."

"So if we find something significant, he won't be happy?" asked Kim, with a heavy tone of sarcasm.

Alex laughed. "It would be a problem for him. The hotel won't be jeopardized, but his access road would need to be rerouted. It's presently scheduled to cut right through our dig site. Stefanos says that an alternative route is available, but it would be much longer and much more difficult to build."

"I don't know, I'm kinda excited about the idea of a villain hanging around the dig. It's makes it more like one of those Dirk Pitt stories that Hallie likes so much," quipped Kim.

"Sure, why not throw in a bad guy, we've already got the supernatural to deal with, what's one more challenge?" added Hallie with a laugh.

Alex shook his head in mock disgust. "You youngsters baffle me. In my day we were content just to go out and dig for weeks for a single potshard. Now you want adventure thrown in too!"

"Alex, please! I haven't seen you this excited about a dig in twenty years!" chided Carla. "He's been like a little boy waiting for Christmas."

"Maybe we should buy him a fedora!" exclaimed Hallie.

"And a bullwhip, too!" added Kim.

Carla began to chuckle. "Oh please, no! He'd wear the hat and hurt himself with the whip!"

"I'd look good in a fedora!" retorted Alex, struggling to hold back his smile.

"I don't know. I don't even think my father could make a movie titled "Ohio Pappadimos and the Temple of Doom!" snickered Hallie.

"Actually Indiana was the name of the dog, so he'd have to be Sparky Pappadimos," corrected Carla referring to the name of their last pet.

That was the last straw and they were all soon laughing uncontrollably.

Chapter Four

On the way home, Kim and Hallie talked about the evening.

"You nervous about Konstantin?" asked Kim.

Hallie shook her head. "I know we'll be protected."

Kim nodded. "Remember, you promised to include me on the next dream journey!"

"I'll try, but I'm not exactly in control of those. I also haven't had one since we left the island last summer." The goddesses had taken Hallie back in time to visit the Minoan culture the previous summer. Hallie knew that it wasn't just a vivid dream because she had returned with volcanic dust on her feet. The dust was analyzed and found to have come from the Thera volcanic explosion. This was the disaster that many scholars believed doomed the Minoan civilization.

Kim leaned over and kissed Hallie. "Come on, let's go home, I think I know a good way to burn off that wonderful dinner!"

In spite of herself Hallie began to giggle. "You're insatiable!"

Kim nodded, laughed, and slipped her arm around Hallie's shoulders.

Chapter Five

The next morning Hallie was walking across the Oval towards the library when she saw Lane approaching her. Hallie knew that she couldn't avoid talking to her.

"Hi, Hallie. How're you doing?" asked Lane.

"Good, thanks. You?" replied Hallie flatly.

Lane cracked a small smile. "I've been looking for you for weeks. I think we should talk a while. We're going to Crete together, so we should try to clear the air."

Hallie nodded slowly. She knew Lane was right, but it irked her to admit this.

They walked together in silence towards High Street and entered a coffeehouse. After ordering, they took a seat in a booth towards the back of the shop.

"I saw Kim yesterday. I think it's cool that you two are still together," stated Lane.

"She's been wonderful. I don't think I could have made it through this year without her," replied Hallie, taking a sip from her chai.

"I must admit that you're looking great. So I guess it hasn't been so bad after all."

Hallie held back her rising temper. "I don't have anything to compare it to. There aren't a lot of other students on campus who had their sex changed over the summer."

"Still, you're doing okay. I mean you're the rising star in the department!"

Hallie could feel her annoyance with Lane growing. "You still don't get it, do you? Every day I have to be on guard. Yes, I'm adapting to my life, and I won't argue that there have been some benefits, but I'm also living a lie. I can't tell people the truth. I don't like lying to people. Lane, I have to lie to my own parents!"

"Look, I've said I'm sorry. If I could do it over again…"

"You'd do the exact same thing you did the first time," interrupted Hallie angrily. "I don't blame you for my transformation. I'm still furious that you violated my trust and friendship."

Lane sat there speechless.

"Am I right?"

Lane nodded slowly. "I keep playing over what I did to you in my mind and I get the same answer; yes."

"At least you accept the fact that you've got a problem, which is good considering what we're dealing with," remarked Hallie. She took the last sip of her chai and almost wished that they had gone into a bar, she could really use a drink.

Lane looked at Hallie with bewilderment for a moment. "What do you mean?"

Hallie took a deep breath and let it out. "Lane, you misused a sacred item. They noted your desecration of the dildo. The object was only to be used on the willing."

Lane's eyes opened wide.

"Thankfully, for your sake, you've been doing your penance. If you hadn't, I don't know what would have happened to you," continued Hallie.

"You don't know that. You're just trying to scare me," replied Lane.

Hallie shook her head. "I just want you to keep that in mind. There's a great possibility that we'll discover more about the cult and the objects. I doubt the goddesses will be as forgiving for a second offense. Look, I don't completely trust you, and I haven't forgiven you for what you did to me last summer, but I'm not out for revenge. I want to make sure that you know that you'd be punished severely should you repeat what you did last summer."

Lane sat there contemplating Hallie's words. She stared into Hallie's eyes and could tell that she wasn't bluffing or joking. It sounded like a plot in a B grade horror movie, but after what had happened to Hallie, Lane knew that they were dealing with the supernatural.

"You don't know that," replied Lane.

Hallie cocked her head and stared back at Lane. "Why would I lie about it? I just know that the entities aren't done with us, and I don't think they're about to give you any leeway. And considering the powers that they obviously have, I'd hate to see what they might do to you."

Lane stared back and nodded slowly as the gravity of the situation sank in. "Thank you for the warning. By the way, knowing how I can get tunnel vision, feel free to remind me if I start going too far."

Hallie nodded. "I tried to warn you the last time," she murmured to herself.

"I sure could use a drink," Lane declared, as the gravity of the situation sank in. If the goddesses could turn a man into a woman, there was no telling what they could do to her.

"Me too," answered Hallie without hesitation.

Without a word, they got up and walked out of the coffeehouse, up High Street, and into one of the many campus bars. They sat quietly and sipped their drinks, as no words were necessary.

Hallie still didn't trust Lane completely, but at least now she felt confident that she could work with her this summer. Hallie had done her part and warned her about what could happen should she commit another desecration. Maybe the threat of cosmic justice would be sufficient to keep Lane in her place this time.

Chapter Six

The next few weeks were best described by Kim, who dubbed them "organized chaos." Kim and Hallie spilt their time between their classes and getting ready for the trip. Thankfully, Carla had given them a detailed list of what they should bring, and even more importantly, what not to bring!

Carla had joined Hallie and Kim for breakfast at a local diner.

"The important thing is to ensure you have a two to three month supply of your toiletries," emphasized Carla. "That includes your feminine products, Hallie. You want to make sure you have enough tampons and napkins."

Hallie blushed slightly. "Could you say that a bit louder, I don't think the couple at the table across from us heard you?"

Kim laughed. "Hallie, you missed out on being embarrassed by your mom, so think of this as another of your lessons in femininity."

"Seriously, Crete is wonderful, but you can't always get the brands you like," added Carla, unfazed by Hallie's discomfort with the topic.

"I got it, bring lots of tampons. What else?" whispered Hallie, her face turning slightly red.

"Dear, I don't mean to make you nervous, I just want to help," stated Carla.

"I know, but I'm still not used to the idea that I have a period each month," replied Hallie.

"So, you're off birth control again?" asked Carla, taking a bite of her omelet.

Hallie nodded. "They just made me sick. My doctor is confused by my reaction. I think they have something to do with it."

Kim and Carla knew who "they" were."

"Oh, do you think they have anything to do with your dream boyfriend?" blurted out Kim.

Hallie gave her a dirty look. "He's not my boyfriend. I don't even know who he is."

Carla turned to Hallie. "What're you two talking about now?"

"If you don't tell her, I will!" interrupted Kim. There was a big grin on her face.

"It's probably nothing, but there has been a guy in my dreams. It goes back a few weeks. He keeps showing up in my dreams. Not every one, but often enough that I think I'd recognize him immediately if he walked in here," explained Hallie.

"Interesting. So, he's not anyone you know?" asked Carla.

Hallie shook her head. "That's what so weird. He doesn't even look like anyone familiar. Not from school, or even from television or the movies. Do you think there's anything to this?"

"Are they pleasant dreams?" asked Carla.

"Yes. In most we're friends, or at least friendly. Sometimes I'm helping him. The problem is that, while I remember him, I can't remember much else, except that there's always a mountain with a strange cleft in it in the background. "

"Sometimes very friendly!" interjected Kim.

Hallie gave her another dirty look.

"I wouldn't worry about it. If it's related to your guardians, then it will be made clear in due time," stated Carla.

"That's the first time I've heard them referred to as my guardians," remarked Hallie.

"Well, I think it's appropriate. I think they're looking out for you."

Hallie nodded.

"Well, let's finish up and head out shopping. You told us you'd show us the best gear to get for the trip!" interrupted Kim.

Hallie looked at her watch. "We have plenty of time. The stores won't be open for another hour."

"Did you bring the lists I gave you?" asked Carla. "I helped Lane finish her list yesterday."

The two young women nodded.

Carla smiled. "Good. First we'll go to outdoors store. Alex has a strict rule on his digs, no sandals while we're working. They may be cooler, but it's a quick way to get a broken toe."

They spent the rest of their meal reviewing what they needed.

Chapter Seven

By lunch they were halfway through the list.

"After countless digs, you learn to go for comfort and durability over style," explained Carla. "Thankfully the climate in Crete is very mild, compared to other places in the Mediterranean. The northern coast reminds me of Southern California."

They were presently picking out hats. Hallie was trying on a khaki colored cotton floppy hat. It was far from stylish, but its broad brim would keep the sun from baking the top of her head.

"Oh, that's a good choice, Hallie," commented Carla. "That's the style I like."

Hallie nodded as she looked at herself in the mirror.

"See, you're getting better at shopping," quipped Kim, as she tried on the same style of hat, the only difference was that hers was olive in color.

Hallie stuck her tongue out at Kim and then broke out in laughs.

"What about our tools?" asked Kim.

"Alex had all our tools shipped over last month. What we don't have, Stefanos will provide," answered Carla.

"So, what's next?" asked Hallie, as they walked to the front counter.

"Lunch!" interrupted Kim.

Carla smiled. "That sounds like a good idea. Then we'll go gift shopping."

"Gift shopping?" asked Kim.

"Yes, it's smart to bring along some gifts to give to the locals," answered Carla.

"What do you suggest?" asked Hallie.

"The last time we were in Crete, we found that OSU t-shirts were very popular. Oh, and so were ball caps," replied Carla.

"You're kidding?" asked Hallie.

"No. They also make good trade items."

"If I had known that, I wouldn't have dumped my old wardrobe in the used clothing bin," commented Hallie. "Half my old wardrobe was made up of Buckeye shirts."

"We can also stop and pick out bathing suits!" added Kim.

"You don't have one yet, Hallie?" asked Carla.

"I have my one-piece from last summer in Maine," replied Hallie.

"You need something better than that. I mean, with your body, you should be wearing a bikini," remarked Kim.

"Well, you'll need a swimsuit. Stefanos' home is on the shore and we often end up taking a swim at the end of the day," commented Carla. "There's decent indoor plumbing, but the hot water supply is insufficient for all of us to shower in a short period of time."

Kim gave Hallie a triumphant smile.

"Okay, you win, I'll get the bikini!"

"Cool," replied Kim. "I can't wait to see you in it!"

Carla rolled her eyes as if she was shocked by their behavior.

By the end of the day, they had bought everything on their lists. They took everything back to Carla's home.

"To save room in your suitcases, we'll ship most of this stuff right to Stefanos tomorrow," commented Carla.

"I can't believe we'll be in Crete in less than two weeks!" exclaimed Kim.

"I wish we could be there sooner," added Hallie, as she placed the items to be shipped into a separate pile.

Just then Alex arrived. "Well, I see that the economy of Columbus is doing well this month!"

Hallie and Kim gave him a big hug. He then gave Carla a long kiss. Hallie smiled seeing the affection that Alex and Carla shared, even though they had been married for years.

They all walked out to the small backyard of Alex and Carla's home. They sat down on the deck and Alex opened a bottle of wine. He began to pour everyone a glass.

"I got an interesting phone call from an old associate this afternoon," stated Alex, as he handed Carla a glass of wine.

"From your old contact in the government?" asked Carla.

"Yes. She's officially retired now, but she was able to tell me about our friend Konstantin Jaeger," answered Alex.

"What did she say?" asked Carla, as she took a sip of the wine and nodded her approval.

"He was born in East Germany and is suspected to be the illegitimate son of a KGB General and a German woman. He took his mother's name. He apparently made his fortune right after the German reunification. It's suspected that he had some help from the Russian mob," explained Alex.

"They don't know for sure if he's connected with the mob?" asked Carla.

Alex shook his head. "His father has ties to them, but so far every deal Konstantin has been involved with has been legal. They think he might be used as a legitimate businessman for a front to invest dirty money."

"What about the hotel near the site?" asked Hallie.

"It appears to be perfectly legal," answered Alex, taking a sip of his wine.

"Did your friend want to know why you wanted to know about Konstantin?" asked Hallie.

Alex shook his head. "If she did, she didn't ask me."

"Do you trust her?" asked Kim.

Alex smiled. "Yes, she was always honest with me. In fact, she helped me speed up your paperwork changes, Hallie."

"Well, the next time you talk to her, give her my thanks," stated Hallie.

"I will. Andrea Carlson's a wonderful woman," answered Alex.

Chapter Eight

Two days before their flight to Athens, Hallie and Kim arrived at Alex and Carla's for the traditional pre-journey feast. Lane was already there, helping Carla in the kitchen. Hallie and Kim were immediately put to work assisting Carla.

"Where's Alex?" asked Hallie.

"He's getting the grill ready. I figured we'd have a nice barbecued dinner tonight. I prepared some shish kabobs. I can't wait to get into the market at Aghios Nikolaos, for then I will cook you all a real feast. I have several new recipes that I want to try, and I've e-mailed Stefanos on the availability of certain items," replied Carla.

"I can't wait," stated Kim, with a big smile on her face.

It was a pleasant evening as they ate outside on the deck. Alex made sure everyone's wine glass was kept full.

"You'll have all day tomorrow to recover. We'll be flying out early the following day to New York to connect to our flight to Athens," stated Alex. "Be sure to have something good to read, it's a long flight."

"Do you really think we'll find something significant on the dig?" asked Lane.

"There's a good possibility. It's been ignored over the years, in favor of bigger sites. The last time anyone did an organized dig there was before the Second World War. The damaged fresco was uncovered then," commented Alex.

"Why did they stop?" asked Kim.

"The same day that the fresco was discovered, they found the completed ones at another dig a few miles away. They then devoted all their time to that one," stated Alex.

Hallie wondered if the goddesses had anything to do with that, but kept it to herself.

"So, there's a chance the rest of the fresco is still there?" asked Kim.

Alex nodded. "It's a possibility. Stefanos says that the site is intact. The locals stay away from it."

"Why? Do they think it's haunted?" asked Lane.

Alex shrugged his shoulders. "Maybe it's been protected by the goddesses. I'm just glad that we'll be able to dig on a site that hasn't been looted."

"How soon after we get to Crete will we able to start work?" asked Hallie.

"Yes, can you go over the schedule again?" asked Kim.

"My, we're anxious," replied Alex with a grin. "We'll fly into Athens and Stefanos and Theon will meet us there. Then we catch the ferry from Piraeus to Iraklio."

"How long is the flight again?" asked Lane.

"Three hours to New York and roughly twelve hours to Athens. The ferryboat to Crete is another eleven hours. Then there is an hour drive to Stefanos' home, south of Aghios Nikolaos. Your first task when we reach Stefanos' home is to rest and get over your jet lag. The best way to do that is lay out in the sun, it helps to reset your internal body clock," answered Alex.

"Why are we taking the ferry to Crete. Aren't there flights there?" asked Kim.

"The ferry is slower, but easier. Also Stefanos will have the truck with our gear in it," replied Alex.

"So we'll start work the following day?" asked Hallie.

"Yes, but before we work, we'll feast. Stefanos and I will prepare a wonderful meal for you," stated Carla.

"I forgot to ask, is Stefanos married?" asked Hallie.

"Several times. His last wife passed away a few years ago," answered Alex.

"So, who's his latest live-in lover?" asked Carla. There was a sly smile on her face.

"He said her name is Lydia and she owns a club in Aghios Nikolaos," replied Alex.

"How old is she?" asked Carla with a smile.

"Stefanos said she's of age," laughed Alex.

Carla rolled her eyes in mock disgust. "That narrows it down a little!"

"I can't wait to meet him," remarked Hallie. "He sounds like a real character."

Carla laughed. "That, my dear, is an understatement."

"Changing the subject, I want to remind you all that we don't need a repeat of last year. We know that there are powers associated with the objects, and we don't know what will happen when we take them to the site. I want to keep the dig professional, and I want you to inform me of anything you discover. That goes for everyone," stated Alex.

Hallie, Kim, and Lane all nodded.

"Good. Now, the main goal of the dig will be to try to restore the damaged fresco. Hallie believes that it may hold the key to translating Linear A."

Linear A was one of two main written languages of the ancient Minoans. It had never been translated. Thanks to her transformation, Hallie could read it, but they needed physical proof.

Hallie noted that Alex hadn't mentioned Linear H yet, the secret language that Hallie had discovered on the objects associated with her transformation.

As if on cue, Alex brought up the new language. "A real coup would be if the fresco includes Linear H. Then, my friends, we would have a once in a lifetime discovery. For the sake of science, we must make sure we carefully excavate the site and our documentation must be meticulous."

"So the fresco is close to the site?" asked Kim.

"It's in a small building next to the site," answered Alex. "It's rarely looked at these days."

"I just want to say one thing. If we find the key to the three languages, I want to share this discovery. I know that, due to my transformation, I have a special insight into all this, but I want everyone to get credit for this," stated Hallie.

"Everyone?" asked Lane.

Hallie nodded. "I don't want this to be a competition."

Carla nodded and took Hallie by the hand, gently squeezing it into her own. She felt a warming pride of Hallie and her decision.

The rest of the evening was spent listening to Alex and Carla's stories of previous digs.

Alex and Carla hugged each girl as they departed. Alex had the last word. "Go home and get some sleep. In two days, we'll be flying to Greece!"

Chapter Nine

Kim rolled over in the bed and kissed Hallie gently on the lips. Hallie snuggled up closer to Kim.

"That was nice," sighed Hallie.

Kim smiled. "I don't condone what Lane did, but I can't imagine what life would be like without you."

Hallie giggled.

They fell asleep in each other's arms.

Hallie had another dream with her mystery man. In the dream, she was sitting in the main library and noticed him sitting across from her. He was about five-foot-nine and thin, his light brown hair was cut short, and he was wearing wire-framed glasses. Hallie even noticed that he had bright blue eyes.

Hallie got up and began to walk towards the guy. She estimated that he was in his early twenties. When she got close, he looked up and smiled. Suddenly she was alone, standing in the temple in Crete. It looked like it was brand new, and Hallie walked inside. There was a torch burning by the entrance and Hallie took it in her hand. She held it up and saw the fresco and saw that it was complete. She moved the torch down towards the bottom and could see writing in Linear B. Excitedly she moved the torch down and could see a message in Linear A. It was the same message, a blessing for the site. She looked for the Linear H message and noticed that a cloth covered it. She reached down to move it, and in an instant she was awake.

"Shit!" she exclaimed, as she sat up. She looked over and saw that Kim was still sound asleep. Glancing over at the clock, she saw that it was 5:00 AM. Hallie debated whether to go back to sleep, but decided to get up instead.

Hallie carefully slipped out of bed and walked into her room. Sitting down at her desk, she pulled out her leather-bound journal and recorded the dream. She wanted to get as much down before the images slipped away.

She then turned to the last page and looked at the sketch of the guy in her dreams. She was no artist, but had drawn a pretty good image of him. Guiding her pencil carefully, she added a little more detail to the drawing.

This couldn't just be chance, she thought. Both he and the temple were in the dream together, and that had never happened before. There had to be a connection, but what was it? she pondered.

She was so lost in thought that she didn't hear Kim enter her room.

"You want breakfast, or are you content to sit at your desk naked? If you want, you can combine the two activities; I love seeing you naked," remarked Kim.

Hallie turned and smiled at Kim. "Breakfast sounds good."

Kim walked over and looked at the drawing. "He looks pleasant enough. I wonder when you'll meet him."

"I don't know. I get the sense that I'm supposed to help him in some way, but I have no idea how or why," replied Hallie. Hallie then got a worried look on her face, as if she had just said something to offend Kim. "I'm not in love with him or anything like that."

Kim laughed and leaned down and kissed Hallie on the lips. "I know that, silly! Now, throw something on and I'll treat you to breakfast."

Hallie nodded. "Thanks for being so understanding."

Kim shrugged her shoulders. "No one said having an enchanted girlfriend would be easy!"

Chapter Ten

The trip from Columbus to Athens passed without incident. Despite being very excited, Hallie actually slept for most of the flight. She felt a growing sense of anticipation as they got off the plane and passed through Greek customs. Athens was a step closer to Crete.

As they walked into the terminal, a jovial short, bald man, with a large gray moustache greeted them. His face was wrinkled and tanned from many years spent out in the sun. Slightly overweight, it didn't seem to slow him down, as he moved quickly towards them. Hallie immediately recognized Stefanos from the photos that Alex had shown her.

"Alex! Carla! It's so good to see you!" Stefanos bellowed. There was a huge smile on his face. He gave Alex a big hug, lifting him off the ground. Then he did the same for Carla, followed by a kiss.

Hallie looked at Kim and they both broke out in smiles.

"Stefanos, let me introduce you to my grad students," stated Alex.

"Please, old friend, you described them to me, I would know them anywhere," interrupted Stefanos. He turned to Lane and gave her a hug. "It's a pleasure to meet you Lane. I understand that your father is so generously supporting this dig."

Lane was a bit caught back by his enthusiastic greeting, but quickly recovered. "Yes…yes, he is. I'm honored to meet a friend of Alex."

Stefanos nodded and turned to Kim. "You must be Kim. Alex has been telling me about you for years. He claims you're the best researcher that he's seen in years." He then wrapped his arms around her and gave her a welcome hug.

Kim responded by giving him a kiss on each cheek.

Stefanos stopped in front of Hallie and seemed speechless. He caught himself after a moment. "I'm sorry, but I'm struck by your appearance, Hallie. You look like one of the temple priestesses on a fresco in my museum."

Hallie smiled back. In her best Greek, she greeted him.

Stefanos broke out in a big laugh. "Beautiful, and cultured too. Your Greek is excellent!" He then gave Hallie her welcome hug.

Hallie also gave him a kiss.

"Theon is waiting with the SUVs. He's anxious to meet all of you," announced Stefanos.

A short time later, they met Theon. Hallie noted that while Theon was thinner, more athletic looking, and had a full head of curly brown hair, he was without doubt the son of Stefanos.

After another round of greetings, they got into the two vehicles. Kim, Lane, and Hallie rode with Theon. They learned that he had gone to the University of Pennsylvania.

"So why are you girls here?" asked Theon in a matter-of-fact way, as they followed Stefanos in the other SUV.

"What do you mean?" asked a slightly annoyed Kim.

"Well, I mean, this isn't a glamorous dig and there are just you three, it's not a hotbed for husbands," replied Theon.

Hallie glanced over at Kim, who was getting angry.

"We're here because we want to be archeologists," interjected Hallie.

Theon laughed. "Oh, I don't doubt that you enjoy the field, but it's just something to do until you get married," he remarked.

"Is that what you really think?" asked Kim, holding in her anger.

"I didn't mean to offend you, but I've seen so many women waste their time studying in some field, only to cast it off in order to get married," answered Theon.

"Why would getting married have anything to do with my career choice?" asked Hallie.

"You can't go into the field and be a mother at the same time," answered Theon, as if he was explaining something extremely obvious to a child.

"Why not?" asked Kim.

Theon glanced back at her, the look on his face said it all, and the confused look told Hallie and Kim that he had never considered that a woman could be both a mother and an archeologist.

Theon laughed again. "I've forgotten how independent you American women are! You can be so confusing at times."

Kim rolled her eyes; in spite of his sexist behavior, she still found Theon charming, for a man.

They arrived at the ferry to Crete and rejoined Alex, Carla, and Stefanos.

"The ferry departs in an hour. The weather is clear and we should be in Iraklio on time," announced Stefanos. "Relax, it's a nice eleven hour trip."

Lane, Hallie, and Kim walked up to the main deck and watched as they pulled away from the pier.

Hallie turned to Lane. "I'm surprised you didn't join in the discussion with Theon."

"What do you mean?" Lane replied.

"That crap he was uttering about women and archeology," added Kim.

"Well, for one thing, in some ways he was right. We've all known girls who've gone to college to get a husband," answered Lane.

"Yes, but that was in undergrad work," replied Kim, slightly taken aback by Lane's comments.

"I've known a few in the graduate department too," added Lane.

"Still, you weren't insulted by what he said?" asked Hallie.

Lane smiled. "No, in some ways it was very refreshing to hear a man speak his mind, without worrying about being PC."

"You feel okay?" asked Kim, putting her hand to Lane's forehead.

"Yes, why do you ask?" replied Lane. There was a sly grin on her face.

Hallie's eyes opened up wide. "You like him!"

Lane was about to deny what Hallie said, but then hesitated. "Maybe you're right. He's very handsome."

Hallie was speechless.

Kim was likewise silent.

"Did you notice how he opened the car doors for us? He's a real gentleman!" squealed Lane.

Hallie shook her head and whispered. "Lane, having once been male myself, I was shocked by what he said."

Lane shrugged her shoulders. "So, I take it neither of you is interested in him?"

Kim laughed and looked at Hallie, who was also giggling.

"Oh, that's right, you two are a couple. Sorry, my bad," Lane commented, obviously embarrassed.

"Come on, we'd better get back to the others," stated Kim. "This trip is already interesting and we haven't gotten to the dig site yet!"

Chapter Ten

The ferry arrived early the following morning, and they started their drive towards Aghios Nikolas. Hallie and Kim rode with Stefanos and Carla, who were consumed with friendly debate about the upcoming meal they would prepare together.

Hallie and Kim looked out the windows at the beautiful countryside. Hallie was overwhelmed with the feelings that she had been here before.

"I can't believe how gorgeous Crete is," exclaimed Kim.

"I agree," added Hallie.

"I must admit that I never get tired looking at my homeland," replied Stefanos. "Hallie, do you know your heritage?"

"A little," she lied. "Why?"

"I've never seen anyone who looked so much like the images of the Minoans. Would you be willing to participate in a little experiment?" he asked.

"What is it?" asked Hallie.

"I have a friend doing a DNA study, comparing present day races to the DNA of the remains of Minoans. Would you mind submitting a sample?" asked Stefanos.

Hallie hesitated. Deep down she wanted to know if she was Minoan, but if the tests confirmed that, how would she explain it?

Seeing Hallie's apprehension, Stefanos glanced back at her. "I'm sorry. Where are my manners? You don't have to give me an answer right now. Please forgive me."

"No need to apologize. I'll think about it," replied Hallie. She decided to confer with Alex and Carla in private before deciding.

"Wonderful!" exclaimed Stefanos.

"How far are we from your home?" asked Kim.

"Only another twenty minutes. We're almost to Aghios Nikolaos. You should be able to see the town in a few minutes. My home is south of the city, on the Gulf of Merabello. I'll take you all into town later this week."

Hallie stared out at the hills and it suddenly hit her that she had been here before, in her many dreams with her mystery man.

"Will we get to meet Lydia?" asked Carla, with a smile on her face.

"Of course! She's anxious to meet all of you," replied Stefanos.

They drove south along the coast until they reached a narrow road that ran towards the shoreline. At first they didn't see a house, then it appeared as if by magic. Stefanos' home appeared to be built into the hill overlooking the gulf. There were also two smaller buildings between the main house and the rocky shoreline. All three buildings were white with red tile roofs.

"Oh, Stefanos, it's wonderful," exclaimed Carla.

"The two smaller buildings are guesthouses. I plan on renting them out next summer. The larger one is for you and Alex. I'll let the girls decide who gets the other one. It has two small bedrooms. There is a large guest bedroom in the main house," he explained.

Hallie noticed that there were paths leading down to the water. Additionally the main house and each guesthouse had patios, all of which overlooked the gulf.

"I do ask you to watch your fresh water use. I haven't gotten around to installing the larger water tank yet," explained Stefanos.

He parked the SUV and they stepped out.

Alex, Lane, and Theon walked over from the other SUV and joined them.

"Do you live here, Theon?" asked Carla.

"No, I have a place in town. It's also my office and studio," he explained.

"It's so beautiful," remarked Hallie.

"Alex, Carla, let me show you your cottage. You girls can decide who gets the other one," remarked Stefanos, as he led Carla and Alex towards the larger of the two guesthouses.

Kim glanced over at Lane. Lane smiled slightly and nodded.

"Hallie and Kim will take the cottage," announced Lane.

Stefanos turned around and waved back. "Theon, help the young ladies with their luggage."

"Yes, Papa!" replied Theon.

Lane appeared to struggle with her bags and Theon took them from her. They walked together to the big house.

Hallie and Kim grabbed their bags and began to walk towards their cottage.

"Since when did Lane become so helpless?" whispered Hallie to Kim.

"I don't know. Whatever has gotten into her?" replied Kim, with an amused tone in her voice.

Kim and Hallie walked into the small cottage. There was a small room that appeared to double as a living room and dining room. There was a cozy kitchen nook, with a little fridge and stove. There were two bedrooms. One had a double bed and the other had a single. There was also a tiny bathroom with a shower stall.

"Oh well, no more baths together until we get back to the states!" bemoaned Kim.

Hallie laughed. "Hey, we do have the whole gulf to swim in together!"

Kim nodded and turned to look out the living room window, which overlooked the gulf. "This is wonderful. I can't believe the view we have."

"I know. Let's go check out the rest of the place," stated Hallie. "We can unpack later."

They walked up towards the main house and were joined by Carla, Alex, and Stefanos.

"The cottage is fantastic!" exclaimed Kim.

"Yes, it's wonderful," added Hallie.

"Thank you for the glowing reviews. I hope that the tourists like them as much next summer," quipped Stefanos. "I trust you two don't mind being so close to each other."

With a totally serious face, Kim answered him. "We don't mind. We share a place together back at school."

Carla, who was standing behind Stefanos, just rolled her eyes.

"Come, let me give you the complete tour," announced Stefanos.

The main house was very spacious. The main room overlooked the gulf. Carla was impressed with the extra-large kitchen. All the appliances were restaurant quality. The kitchen was designed with lots of counter space. Additionally, there was an island that doubled as an eating area, when it wasn't used as a food preparation station.

"I couldn't help myself. I love to cook and I decided that for once I would have enough room," remarked Stefanos.

"It's wonderful, Stefanos. But where is that marvelous invention you were bragging to me about?" asked Carla.

Theon laughed. "Papa, you really didn't tell her about that ridiculous contraption you built?"

"Humph! You keep up that sort of negative attitude and you won't get any lamb tonight!" replied Stefanos.

"What're you talking about?" asked Alex, his curiosity piqued.

Stefanos began to walk outside. "Come, my friends, let me show you my brainstorm."

He led them to a large outdoor barbecue, where there was an object covered with a large tarp. Stefanos motioned to Theon, who helped him remove the waterproof cloth. There was what appeared to be a stationary bike connected to a rotating spit. The spit was fixed above a stone firepit.

"It's simple. The lamb is placed on the spit and all we need is some gentle peddling to produce a perfect dinner!" explained a very proud Stefanos.

Alex could only nod in admiration.

"Have you used it yet, Stefanos?" asked Carla.

"Just once. I had to adjust the gears of the bike to slow down the rotation."

"It requires a lot of peddling. I suggested we use a small motor, but he would have nothing to do with my idea," added Theon. He was smiling and seemed to enjoy needling his father.

"And what happens when the power goes out? Besides, the peddling helps you build up an appetite!" answered Stefanos.

Hallie couldn't help but smile at the bickering between Stefanos and Theon; it was obvious that they truly loved each other.

"Well, we'll get a chance to try it out this out this evening. Did you get everything we need for the meal?" asked Carla.

"Lydia is bringing over the perishables. I have everything else. Why don't you relax first?" suggested Stefanos.

"I can relax better when I'm cooking. Girls, I won't need your help until later. Why don't you go take a swim or take a nap?"

"A swim sounds wonderful," answered Kim.

"There are towels in your rooms," informed Stefanos.

"I have to run into town. Do you want me to pick up Lydia, Papa?" asked Theon.

"She'd appreciate that; thank you very much, Theon," replied Stefanos.

Hallie and Kim walked back to their cottage and changed. Lane joined them by the shore. Carla was right; the swim did feel really good. Afterwards, they relaxed in the warm Mediterranean sun on a small beach, sheltered by rocky cliffs.

"Not a bad way to spend our first day in Crete," remarked Kim. "By the way, you look really cute in your bikini!"

Hallie just mumbled her reply and drifted off into a restful nap.

Chapter Eleven

Hallie was awakened from her rest by Kim, who was nudging her in the side.

"Hey, wake up!" Kim called.

Hallie slowly opened her eyes.

"Come on, sleepyhead, Carla wants us to help. Also Lydia is here and you have to meet her!" explained Kim, as she shook her lover gently.

Hallie sat up, stretched, wiped the sleep out of her eyes, and looked around. "Where's Lane?"

"She went up a few minutes ago. She wants to look nice for Theon!"

"Wow! Do you believe in love at first sight?" asked Hallie, as she stood up and shook the sand from her towel.

"Of course, I do! I felt it the first moment I saw you, silly!" Kim replied. She then leaned down and gave Hallie a kiss.

"I have a question? How do we handle our relationship around Stefanos and Theon?"

"We should tell them out front. I think Stefanos knows, and if Theon is really as sexist as he acted earlier, he'll probably be turned on," answered Kim.

"Come on, not every guy has lesbian fantasies," remarked Hallie.

Kim just stared back at Hallie and cocked her head to one side.

Hallie laughed. "Okay, maybe you're right!"

They walked up the path to their cottage for a quick shower and change of clothes.

Hallie selected a floral pattern green and white long skirt, along with a white sleeveless cotton blouse. Kim sat her down and began braiding her hair. Hallie found it to be very soothing.

"I'm so glad that you haven't cut this short," remarked Kim, as she finished braiding Hallie's hair.

"It's such a pain at times, but it does look nice," answered Hallie.

"It's not fair. You have such nice hair and you don't want it!" sighed Kim.

"No one said you had to cut yours short, although I do think you look fantastic with short hair!" retorted Hallie.

They finished dressing and headed up to the main house. They found Stefanos and Carla in the kitchen, preparing dinner.

A stunningly beautiful woman was sitting on a stool next to the kitchen island, drinking a glass of wine. She was tall, blonde, with classically striking features. Her body was deeply tanned and she looked like she was in her late twenties. She easily could have been a model or a movie star.

"Hallie, Kim, this is Lydia," greeted Stefanos, looking up from the food he was preparing.

Lydia turned and greeted them. "It's a pleasure to meet you two." She then gave them a sly wink, as if she knew they were a couple.

Hallie liked her immediately.

Chapter Twelve

Holding his wine glass aloft, Alex stood up and made the first of many toasts. "First, I would like to thank my old friend Stefanos for the hospitality of his home. Yasas!"

They all took a big sip of their wine.

"Now, I would like to toast to a successful dig. May we find what we're all looking for! Yasas!"

Hallie smiled and wondered if Alex had intentionally chosen his words with her in mind. She also wondered how many more toasts would be made as she was quickly discovering that the wine in Crete was stronger than back in the states.

"Thank you, my friend," announced Stefanos. "It's time to feast!"

The spit-roasted lamb was brought out by Theon. While Hallie had never really liked lamb, she found the aroma irresistible. Stefanos' invention worked to perfection, resulting in an excellent roasted lamb. With a lot of peddling it had produced a very succulent, tasty dinner.

"So, tell me Alex, what really brings you here?" asked Stefanos, leaning over towards Alex.

Alex looked at Hallie who nodded.

"We think the fresco is the key to decoding Linear A. There is also a possibility of a hidden third language," stated Alex.

Stefanos nodded. "I've suspected the existence of a third language. I assume you're talking about the marks on the jars that I sent you?"

Alex nodded.

"Why do you think the fresco is important?" asked Stefanos.

"Call it a hunch," replied Alex.

"You're hiding something, my old friend. We've always been honest with each other and I can only assume that your secrecy is because you're protecting someone," stated Stefanos.

Alex nodded. "I want proof before I tell you everything." He slipped a glance at Hallie.

Stefanos nodded. "I understand."

Hallie noticed that Lane and Theon were talking to each other and appeared to be oblivious to the conversation going on next to them. Lydia was talking to Carla about the meal.

Hallie looked over at Alex and mouthed, "Tell him the truth."

Alex shook his head slightly and mouthed back, "Later."

Thankfully, Stefanos didn't notice their silent conversation.

Hallie felt bad about not being open with Stefanos, and decided that she would talk to Alex about it as soon as possible.

"Alex, if this dig does lead to some major discovery, I'd love to be the one who writes about it," stated Theon.

"I think that would be appropriate. However, please run all press releases through me before publishing them. I promise that you'll get excusive rights, but I don't have to tell you the significance of keeping this a secret for now."

Theon nodded. "True. The site could be ravaged and any artifacts would be end up in the black market."

"Or worse," added Stefanos.

"Have there been any problems with Konstantin?" asked Alex.

"Nothing that I can blame him for. There have been anonymous threats against anyone helping us with the site. Thankfully, I still have some of my father's connections," replied Stefanos.

"What do you mean?" asked Hallie.

"I can still get any supplies we need for the dig. The men who supply us aren't afraid of a few Russian thugs," replied Stefanos.

"Russian thugs?" asked Kim.

"Yes, Konstantin has two Russian bodyguards with him. They have tried to intimidate local merchants and suppliers. However, the word has been put out that anyone who helps us will be protected," replied Stefanos.

"Do you really think that he'll resort to violence?" asked Hallie.

"Maybe. He stands to lose a lot of money if his resort is delayed much longer."

"Do you think he'll try to damage the site?" asked Kim.

Stefanos shook his head. "That would be a huge mistake. He'll sit back and hope we don't find anything. If we do, he may try to scare us away."

"He'd be the one making the mistake," mumbled Hallie to herself.

Stefanos gave her a look, as if he had heard what she said. Hallie wasn't sure, but he cracked a sly smile.

"I suspect that this will be a very memorable summer. Enough talk about that bastard! Come now, you've barely made a dent in the lamb! Let us eat and drink. We can address the problems of the world tomorrow!" declared Stefanos.

Much later in the evening, Hallie stumbled back to the cottage with Kim. They were both too tired to do anything but go to sleep. The combination of fatigue and numerous glasses of Cretan wine had taken their toll. Hallie undressed and collapsed on her bed; sleep came immediately.

Chapter Thirteen

Hallie awoke and found herself soaking in a soothing warm bath. Torches lit the room. She looked down and was shocked to see that she was a male again. It had to be a dream, she thought, but then she could feel the water in the bath. She stepped up and out of the bath and looked around the room. Hallie shivered slightly from the cool night air. There was a towel next to the bath and she picked it up and dried her body.

Hallie then began to examine her body. She was definitely a man, stocky and very muscular, far more muscular than she had ever been as Harry. She ran her hands over her face and felt that she now had a full beard. Her hair was shorter, but still curly. Hallie looked around and was disappointed that there wasn't a mirror, as she was intensely curious about what she looked like.

Slowly she accepted that her guardians had taken her on another dream journey. Hallie instinctively knew she was back in Minoa. She wasn't sure, but the bathhouse had the feel of being a ceremonial place, the only other thing in the room was a chair. She looked at the bath and saw that it was a natural stone formation. There was a trickle of warm water pouring into the pool from a clay pipe in the wall. She could see an overflow channel carved into the rock that allowed the water to flow to a drain in the corner of the room.

She would have studied the bath more, but the fact that she was male again was too much of a distraction. It was strange having a male body again. She ran her hands across her hairy body; it just didn't seem right. Then there was the fact that she had a penis again. She looked down at it and was almost afraid to touch it. One thing that was definitely different was that she was uncircumcised. It made her maleness look even more foreign than before.

It had never occurred to Hallie that she might be changed back into a male. It didn't feel right; she wanted to be female again. For the first time since her initial change, Hallie realized how completely female she had become. You really have been fooling yourself the past few months, she chuckled to herself. Hallie had spent the past year stating that she was still mostly male inside, but this sudden return to a masculine body had shown her how wrong she had been.

"I guess I still have a lot to learn," exclaimed Hallie aloud. She then realized that she was talking in Minoan. It was also strange hearing her voice sounding so deep.

Something told her that she was here to learn something, so she determined to remember as much as possible.

Three women walked into the room, dressed as the priestesses that Hallie had seen on the frescos and pottery. Bare breasted, they wore long ornate skirts. Their hair was styled around an ornate headdress. One of the priestesses stepped forward and handed Hallie a cup of wine. Another one was carrying an ornate labrys, the ceremonial double-bladed axe that was a symbol of power for the Minoans. From what Hallie remembered, only women of great stature carried such a weapon. The axe represented female sexuality and fertility.

"Once again I ask you, do you willingly agree to participate in this ceremony?" asked the priestess, in Minoan.

Hallie nodded and took the cup of wine. "I do."

"Then drink, and prepare yourself for a new life," stated the priestess.

Hallie drank the wine and felt its glow spread throughout her body. As soon as she emptied her cup, it was immediately refilled. To her utter amazement she actually felt the effects of the wine. She began to get lightheaded and had trouble maintaining her balance.

"Come, it is time," stated the priestess.

The two other women led Hallie outside and towards what appeared to be an altar. It was night and the only light was from the full moon which lit up the marble altar, making it seem to glow. High in the hills behind them, a large bonfire seemed to be burning just below a cleft in a peak.

The only artwork on the altar was a carved labrys, the symbol of the Mother Goddess. Hallie glanced around and saw the labrys that she had seen earlier, displayed prominently in front of the altar.

Hallie was led to the altar, with the feeling of knowing just what was expected of her as she climbed the stairs. She lay down on her back, bent her knees up, and spread her legs. Unlike the last time, she was not tied down and struggling; this was a purely voluntarily act.

The priestesses prepared Hallie's body; they began to spread the lubricant between her legs. Hallie felt its warmth against her naked body and let out a long pleasant sigh. She would soon be female again and that fact made her giddy with joy.

Hallie had to concentrate and focus on what the priestesses were doing. She watched as one soaked the dildo in the lubricant. A second priestess continued to massage the lubricant around her anus.

To her utter surprise, she began to feel her penis get hard. That hadn't happened the last time, she thought. It was so strange to feel an erection again. The lead priestess reached down and began to stroke it, encouraging it to grow bigger and harder. Then to Hallie's complete surprise, the lead priestess stripped away her skirt, and climbed up on the altar. She then spread her legs and slid down on Hallie's engorged shaft.

Without a word, the priestess began to ride up and down. Hallie felt weak, as if all her strength was being channeled into her manhood. She had never felt an erection so intense in her entire life. Then she felt the old familiar sensations of an orgasm building. Her breathing got heavier and faster, there was no way she could hold this back. The priestess rode her faster, as if she could sense the impending climax.

Hallie made no effort to hold back the wave of pleasure that was building in her male body. Her whole body was soon racked in the spasms of pleasure of the most intense and incredible orgasm in her life — well, at least the most intense male orgasm. The priestess seemed to be milking her sperm out of Hallie's cock with her vagina. Hallie let her have every drop.

When her orgasm ended, Hallie felt so weak, but at the same time she felt so free. The priestess finished and put on her skirt again. She then took the dildo and began to rub it against Hallie's anus.

Hallie didn't resist and moaned in pleasure as the object slipped into her body. She then looked up and saw the three glowing blue entities float towards her. They were the same three that had transformed her back in Maine. Unlike the last time, they acknowledged her presence with smiles. They were truly her guardians.

They began to reshape her body, sculpting a beautiful woman out of the masculine body that had encased her. Hallie sighed as they worked. As with her earlier transformation, she felt no pain. Their hands began to mold and sculpt Hallie's body into the familiar form that she had grown so used to.

Hallie watched with delight as her breasts were reformed and the muscular male body was slimmed down. She noted with fascination how her penis was slowly molded into a vagina.

Hallie felt tears of joy forming in her eyes as she saw that they were almost finished. One of the guardians reached down and wiped them away. Hallie looked into her face and tried to smile. The guardian nodded and leaned down and kissed Hallie on the forehead.

The three guardians floated above Hallie and in unison reached down and touched her. Hallie saw what could be best described as the circular ripples caused by a pebble thrown into a calm pond. The waves of blue energy spread out from her center. At first she didn't understand what had happened, but then it came to her. The waves were changing the personal history of the man that Hallie had once been. All those who had ever known her previous male persona would forget him completely, and only remember knowing the woman she now was. The guardians then spoke in unison to Hallie before departing. It took Hallie a moment to translate their words, "Blessed be, Mother of Minoa!"

Hallie was helped off the altar by the priestesses and given a skirt to wear. One of the priestesses began to braid her hair, while the others helped Hallie finish dressing. They led her back to the bath. The head priestesses whispered into Hallie's ear, "Thank you for the seed, from which a new priestess will grow."

Hallie then looked over at the fresco behind the altar and could see that all the words were uncovered. She tried to read them, but before she could make them out she was back in her bed in Stefanos' guesthouse.

Hallie sat up in bed and looked around her small room. It took her a second to realize where she was. She was naked and alone. Hallie got up and walked into the kitchen, opening the fridge. She poured herself a glass from the lone bottle of orange juice. She debated slipping into bed with Kim, but decided to record the images of her journey first. When she started, it was a little after three, and she did not finish typing out what she had experienced until after five.

Absorbing what had happened, she could see how different the transformation process was when it was a voluntary act, so without the rage and fear she had felt when Lane had forcibly violated her. Her transformation in the dream journey was so joyful; there had been no fear or anxiety whatsoever.

What was the significance of the sexual act? she wondered. Did the priestesses have the same desires to have a child that constantly ran through her own mind?

She also wondered about the wave of energy that swept out from her during the ceremony. If the Guardians had the power to change a person's history, then why didn't they do that for her? Hallie thought about it and tried to seek the answer in the whirlwind of information in her mind. When she was initially transformed the Guardians gave her a wealth of information of the Minoan culture. The problem was that Hallie couldn't comprehend it all. She had to focus on a specific question and the answer would eventually come.

"Hey! What're you doing up so early?" asked Kim.

Hallie turned around and saw Kim standing naked in front of her.

"I decided to go with your clothing-free look," quipped Kim.

"I had another dream journey last night," replied Hallie softly.

Kim nodded and wrapped her arms around her lover and kissed her.

"I'm going to get dressed; read this and let me know what you think," stated Hallie, as she pointed to her laptop computer.

Hallie dressed for comfort, as they would be visiting the dig site for the first time. She put on a pair of khaki shorts, and a sleeveless gray t-shirt. She then slipped on a cotton blouse. Hallie almost reached for her sandals, but remembering Alex's warning about them, she reached for socks and her hiking boots.

Kim had just finished reading Hallie's report. "Amazing!"

"I'm glad you believe me," replied Hallie.

Kim stood up and kissed Hallie. "Why wouldn't I?"

"Thank you. I was just worried that you'd think I was crazy."

"I didn't say that I didn't think you were crazy!" quipped Kim, as she ran towards her room before Hallie could respond.

Chapter Fourteen

Hallie decided that she would talk to Alex about telling Stefanos the whole truth. It was evident that she was in Crete for a reason that went well beyond the archeological research

After a light breakfast, they packed up the SUVs, heading down the coast to the dig site. Kim, Alex, Stefanos, and Hallie rode together. Lane traveled with Theon back to town to pick up some supplies. Carla was off to the market with Lydia.

"We're only six kilometers from my home," remarked Stefanos, as they pulled off the main road.

"So we could walk back at the end of the day?" asked Kim.

"Sure, I also have some bikes you can use," added Stefanos.

"Do you have a storage area for our tools near the site?" asked Alex.

"Yes. There is a building next to the museum. We have a night watchman to keep an eye on it," replied Stefanos.

"Great," replied Alex.

They pulled off the road and parked next to the museum, which was a very small building.

"The only thing in there is the fresco," stated Stefanos, as if he was reading their minds. "I know that you want to see it."

He unlocked the door and they entered the musty building.

"Right now, we only open by appointment," stated Stefanos.

Hallie stared at the fresco. It was lying on a large table, and it was the same one that she had seen in her dreams. The damage started just above the area where the writing began. She reached over and touched it, as if she was hoping for some sort of message from her guardians.

"It's very beautiful. I never get tired of looking at the priestesses," remarked Stefanos. He then glanced over at Hallie. His eyes swung back and forth between her and the image of the Minoans. He just shook his head in disbelief.

"I hope we can restore it," remarked Alex.

Hallie looked over at Alex and was about to speak when he interrupted her.

"Stefanos, Hallie has something to tell you. I think, old friend, that you'd better sit down first," announced Alex.

Stefanos nodded. "I know that you and Kim are deeply in love," remarked Stefanos to Hallie, "and I think it's wonderful."

Hallie smiled. "Thank you, but that's not what I want to tell you."

"You mean that you two aren't lovers?" asked Stefanos. There was a confused look on his face.

"No, you're right, we're a couple, but I have something even more shocking to tell you," stated Hallie. She took a deep breath and began to tell Stefanos her story. Kim sat next to her and put her arm around Hallie for support.

Twenty minutes later, she finished. Stefanos sat there in silence as if he was contemplating her every word.

Stefanos turned to Alex. "I can see why you didn't tell me this last night at dinner, old friend."

"I wasn't sure you'd believe me. To be honest, if I hadn't seen the video of Hallie's transformation, I wouldn't have believed it myself,' replied Alex.

"So that explains your appearance," stated Stefanos turning towards Hallie, "and your apprehension over giving me a DNA sample."

Hallie nodded. She still wasn't sure if he believed her.

"So you know what this looks like in one piece?" he asked, pointing towards the fresco.

Hallie nodded. "The only problem is that I don't know the message on it. I've never been able to get a good look at it."

"I'm sorry that this was forced upon you, but I'm slightly envious that you have seen Minoa, not once but twice!"

"So…you believe me?" asked Hallie cautiously.

"Of course, my dear! I'm honored that you trust me enough to share your secret!" exclaimed Stefanos. He stood up and wrapped his bear-like arms around Hallie and gave her a huge hug.

Hallie fought back tears as she returned his hug.

"I have many questions to ask you. I'll try not to ask them all at once," said Stefanos, in a soft and gently tone.

"I also have a few for you concerning your dream journey last night," added Alex.

"I typed out all my observations and can give you a copy, if you want," stated Hallie.

Stefanos broke out in a loud booming laugh. "You've taught her well, old friend. She is taken back in time and undergoes a magical transformation and the first thing she does is record her observations! Hallie, you're going to be an excellent archeologist!"

Hallie laughed.

"I'm also impressed at how fast you learned Greek. I wonder if it has something to do with your transformation," stated Stefanos. "Have you noticed any changes in the way you study or in your memory since the transformation?"

"I don't know. Maybe I pay more attention to things now," replied Hallie. "I think I see more detail in everything."

"You know, you might be right. I've noticed how quickly you memorize things too!" added Kim.

"Hallie, tell me the license plate number of my SUV," asked Stefanos.

Hallie immediately answered, as if had been her own car's license plate.

"Impressive!" exclaimed Stefanos.

"Thank you. Can you do me a favor and not tell Theon and Lydia what happened to me?" asked Hallie. "At least until I say it's okay?"

"Absolutely. I think you can trust them, but I will obey your wishes," replied Stefanos. "So, I think we should go and see the site of the dig."

Chapter Fifteen

They approached the ruins of the temple. Hallie knew without question that it was the same place that she had been in her dream journey. There was little left of the temple with only one wall remaining upright. It had been further damaged when the fresco had been removed. The room with the bath was almost completely destroyed. The altar was gone too.

"This is the wall that the fresco was located on," announced Hallie. She began to point to different places surrounding the temple. "The bath was right where Kim is standing, and the altar was right there."

Stefanos nodded. "I've always wondered what those ruins were. I just never had the time to excavate them." He pointed to the place where the bath once stood.

"What do you think happened to the altar?" asked Kim.

"Well, if it was marble as Hallie said, then it was most likely carted away and either used in another temple or in some rich man's home," replied Alex.

"There has been no record of a marble altar here, so I must agree with Alex. It has probably been gone for thousands of years," added Stefanos. "The ancient people practiced recycling long before modern man. However, the carving of a labrys on the front should make it easy to identify, if it's still in one piece. I'll get the word out to my father's associates and see if they know of such an object."

"So, where do we start?" asked Hallie.

"Normally, we would do a full site survey before starting the dig, but thanks to your special insight, we'll start in the area around the wall where the fresco was found," answered Alex.

"The ruins had been buried. The last dig's spoil pile is right there. Records showed that they sifted through it all, so I don't think we'll have to do it again. They never dug in the area below the fresco, so we should be able to find the missing sections, with time and a lot of hard work," commented Stefanos.

Hallie nodded. "When do we start?"

"We have to rope off the area and set it up in grids. I know you're anxious to get started, but we must document every item we find. Once we start to dig, we'll rotate through positions. Everything found will be recorded and then cleaned off. Thankfully the Minoans used dyes and paints that have held up well over the ages," stated Alex.

"Hallie, do you think you can make a life-sized drawing of the fresco's missing sections?" asked Stefanos.

"I can try."

"Good, that will help us in reconstructing it. I have paper and markers in the museum. Why don't you get started on that?" suggested Stefanos.

"Kim, you can help me lay down the grid," commented Alex.

"Oh, good, here come Theon and Lane," announced Kim.

The second SUV pulled off the road next to the museum. Theon and Lane began to unload it.

Hallie noticed that Theon wouldn't let Lane lift any of the bigger boxes. She wondered if the others noticed his behavior.

Chapter Sixteen

Hallie spent the rest of the day sketching out the missing parts of the fresco. Stefanos had rigged up a drawing board that allowed her to work right next to the original. She decided to focus on the outlines of the images first and then go back and work on the colors.

She was amazed at how detailed her drawing was. She didn't even have to think, she just drew the missing sections, every section except the area with the writings. Apparently her guardians wanted to keep that secret for now.

"Hallie, you need to finish up, we're leaving soon," yelled Kim.

"Why can't we eat lunch here?" replied Hallie, not even looking up from her work.

Kim walked into the building. "Um… Hallie, you skipped lunch, it's almost five and Alex says it's time to stop."

Hallie looked over at Kim. "You're kidding? I've lost all track of time."

Kim looked at Hallie's drawing of the missing part of the fresco. "You drew all this from memory?"

Hallie nodded.

"This must be the area where the writing is; I wonder what it says?"

"I have no idea. Maybe it's the carrot," stated Hallie.

"I'll help you put everything away. I doubt you'll want to leave this out," stated Kim, pointing to the drawing.

"Stefanos says this room is secure, but I agree we shouldn't leave it out."

Hallie folded up the drawing and placed it in a metal cabinet, along with her pencils and markers.

Alex walked into the museum. "Stefanos figured that you'd want the key to the cabinet." He tossed Hallie the key.

"He must be a mind reader," quipped Kim. "Come on, let me show you what we've done. You're not the only one who has been busy."

Hallie locked the cabinet and followed Kim and Alex outside. She was impressed to see that the area around the temple was marked off in neat orderly grids. Small wooden stakes had been driven into the ground surrounding the site. String was strung from one stake to another, creating the grid.

"We started digging, but we haven't found anything yet," stated Kim.

Hallie was about to reply, when she saw a Mercedes SUV drive down the road towards them. "Who's that?"

"Konstantin," replied Stefanos.

The SUV pulled up next to the other vehicles and the burly driver stepped out quickly and ran around to the passenger side to open the door. A tall-distinguished man stepped out of the SUV, donning a pair of sunglasses. He was wearing an expensive Italian suit, which looked out of place in the dig site.

Hallie studied the man as he slowly walked towards Stefanos and Alex. His blonde hair was short and neat. Hallie noticed that he was handsome, with the exception of a thin narrow scar on his left cheek. It looked like a dueling scar that she had seen in old photos and paintings. The scar gave him a sinister appearance.

The driver, and an even larger man followed Konstantin. They stood several feet behind him.

"Well, I see that you've set up your sandbox to play in, Stefanos," he quipped in accented in English. The accent was slightly German.

"Yes, this is my colleague, Dr. Alex Pappadimos," introduced Stefanos.

Konstantin extended a hand to Alex, who accepted.

"I suppose that Stefanos told you that this is delaying my hotel's construction," stated Konstantin bluntly.

"I'm sorry to hear that, but that is the risk one takes when they build in Crete," replied Alex.

"Just what Crete needs, another ancient site that no one visits. My hotel will create many jobs," replied Konstantin.

Hallie looked at the two men standing behind Konstantin. They must be his bodyguards. Neither looked overly intelligent, but Hallie decided that they weren't hired for their brains.

The driver was wearing a cheap Italian suit. His silk shirt was opened at the neck and Hallie could see several gold chains hanging around his bulldog-like neck. He looked like a B-grade gangster movie thug. His hair was very short, and he was clean-shaven. While he appeared very muscular, he also had a large belly, which made him look fat. He showed no emotion as he stood there watching the proceedings.

His partner was similarly dressed. He was taller and wore more gold chains than the driver. Hallie wondered if the two were related. His head had been shaved completely clean.

"So, who are the women? They look young even for you, Stefanos," sneered Konstantin.

"They're graduate students working with Dr. Pappadimos," replied Stefanos. There was a slight tone of anger in his voice.

"Ah, American girls. I suppose they're ignorant of the land and culture they're supposed to be studying. I bet my men know more Greek then the three of them combined!" laughed Konstantin. He then turned back to his bodyguards and murmured something in Greek. The men laughed at his comments.

Both Stefanos and Alex appeared shocked by what Konstantin said and were about to reply when Hallie beat them to the punch.

Without hesitation Hallie angrily yelled out "Glitsis!" to Konstantin.

He turned and glared back. He then cracked a small smile.

"So, one of them understands Greek? I'm impressed," he replied. He then turned to Stefanos and Alex. "Make sure you finish this up quickly."

"We have a permit for two months," replied Stefanos, "and that will be extended if we find anything significant."

"Assuming anyone cares about this dig," replied Konstantin.

As if on cue, another car drove down the road. The sedan pulled into the parking area and two men got out. One was carrying a camera.

"Who are they?" demanded Konstantin.

"They're from the newspaper in Iraklio. They heard we're doing a dig here and they want to do a story on our weekly progress," replied Stefanos. There was a sly smile on his face. "Would you like them to interview you for the story?"

Konstantin didn't reply and walked back to his SUV. His action caught his bodyguards off guard and they hurried to open up the door for him.

"What did he say?" asked Kim.

"He called us whores and then he wondered how well we would service him," replied Hallie angrily.

"That's the G-rated version of what he said. His actual words were much cruder," added Alex.

"What did you call him? Glitsis? I'm not familiar with that word," stated Lane.

"It basically means a filthy and stupid person with no manners, a well selected response," replied Stefanos. "A very well chosen response!" He broke out in a huge smile and began to roar with laughter. He then gave Hallie a big hug.

"Where did you learn that?" asked Kim.

Hallie shrugged her shoulders. "I have no idea."

The reporter and the photographer approached Theon. They hugged each other and started to laugh.

"I take it they're not reporters," stated Alex.

Stefanos shook his head. "They're men who work for friends of my father. I've known them their whole lives. They'll be keeping an eye on the site for us. Theon came up with the reporter story."

"So you were expecting Konstantin to show up today?" asked Kim.

He nodded. "He's very predictable in some ways. Still, we'd be stupid to underestimate him." Stefanos walked over and talked to the two men for a few minutes.

Hallie helped Kim, Lane, Theon, and Alex pack up the tools. They locked them in a shed next to the museum.

"You want to go for a swim when we get back?" asked Kim.

"That sounds like a great idea; you want to join us, Lane?" asked Hallie.

Lane looked over at Theon, who was talking to his father. "Sure, maybe Theon will want to join us."

Hallie looked at Kim, who rolled her eyes.

  

  

  

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