Incest/Taboo Lady in Red

"Steve, I don't want to intrude, but can I possibly help?" asked Naomi. "Jared and I would like to accompany you."

Steve had been concentrating on the situation when Naomi interrupted his thoughts. He face softened as he turned to her. He mulled over her suggestion briefly before smiling.

"Naomi, that would be great! I appreciate your willingness to help us on such short notice. Kate? Do you think you and Chip could drop everything and come with us too? I'm sorry to thrust this on you so suddenly, but time is suddenly a luxury we don't have. We're jetting to Moscow as soon as possible."

Kate glanced at Chip before turning back to Steve. "Absolutely. We can leave right away. We'll have our luggage packed to meet us at the airport. You know you can always count on us."

Both phone conversations had been broadcast live. What had been a Super Bowl victory celebration had suddenly morphed into international intrigue. Steve Hammer had just promised President Rosen to leave for Moscow immediately. He had then received another call where he'd held a brief conversation in what sounded like Russian. Something momentous was happening. Even sports reporters could identify real news when it was thrown into their faces. They began asking questions, which the normally responsive Steve and Gwen simply ignored.

Steve took Gwen's hand and nodded to his friends to follow him from the locker room. He led them into a private room and closed the door before speaking.

"There's been a coordinated attack on the Russian leadership. President Kozlov has been seriously injured, and his survival's in doubt. There's no clear line of succession in Russia. Prime Minister Oblonsky would normally be next in line, but he was killed in a separate attack at the same time. All told, the top five Russian bureaucrats were targeted with only Kozlov remaining alive, and that's only for now."

"My God!" gasped Gwen. "The situation is ripe for anarchy... a coup! But what does Vince think we can accomplish?"

"He said he has no idea. Marshall Yahontov just contacted him and requested him to ask us to fly to Russia immediately. I had no sooner ended my conversation with Vince, when Vavara Suchkov called. Her father is an advisor to Kozlov. Vavara said her father insisted she contact us as soon as she could. He too wants us to fly to Moscow immediately. I told her we were making plans to leave within the hour."

"I don't have to tell you a volatile situation like this is dangerous as hell," stated Naomi. "It's obvious someone's trying to throw Russia into chaos. There are a few ambitious actors in the Russian military. Gwen mentioned a possible coup, and I think that very well may be the case. There's a radical Russian colonel the CIA has been watching closely. He's very anti-American and has been gaining support within the Russian Army."

"Colonel Chernov," replied Steve. "He's bad news for the US, and even worse for Russia. He has a reputation as a cruel, brutal man. He commanded a division in Russia's war in Georgia back in 2008. The Georgians claimed his men indiscriminately killed civilians, including women and children. Many of the women were raped before they were killed. He committed almost every war crime imaginable and got away with it."

"So if he gains control of Russia, all hell will break loose? What does Kozlov expect you to do about it?" asked Chip. "Challenge him to a duel?"

"If he manages to grab power, he'll make Stalin look like a boy scout," worried Naomi. "I repeat. This trip will be dangerous as hell."

"Steve and I have a limo waiting for us, and we're leaving for the airport. I won't ask any of you to go with us, now that I realize how dangerous this may be," stated Gwen. "No one will blame you for staying behind."

"If Chip and I aren't there, who's going to pull Steve's ass out of the fire?" asked Jared. "We don't abandon our friends just because things get a little edgy."

Steve spoke to Jason. "You're a cabinet member now, so you and Lisa will be keeping an eye on things here. This isn't a government sanctioned visit."

"As the one responsible for Gwen's safety, I'll be going with you," declared Sybil. "Don't even think about dissuading me."

Steve turned to see how Tyler felt about his wife's announcement. "We missed your world tour, so it's only fair we get to go with you to Moscow. It'll be something to tell the grandkids."

"You make it sound like we're inviting you along on a family picnic; but okay, you and Sybil are in, and thanks," replied Steve.

There was a tattoo of rapid knocks on the door. Kate opened it, and Heather rushed into the room, with Colt following closely.

"They just broke into regular programming. There's pure hell to pay in Moscow. I know you're going there as soon as your flight is ready, and I'm begging a ride. The network wanted to send Jim Perkins, but I insisted it was my assignment. I'm aware of the danger, but it's what I do. You have the room, so give me a seat, please!"

"Could you make that two seats?" asked Colt. "I'm not comfortable with Heather going into danger like this. I can't talk her out of it, so I'd like to go along. Maybe I can help keep her safe."

"I was just notified our limo is here," stated Gwen. "Luckily it's a stretch. Those of you foolish enough to want in, come with us now and bring your passports. We don't have any time to waste."

Fewer than ten hours later, the group climbed into an extended van hired to take them to their hotel in Moscow. As they were being driven through the streets, it was obvious the city was on edge. Large groups of people milled about on street corners and unrest was in the air.

Steve was on the phone as soon as they landed. He spoke to the Russian State Department and then called Vavara Suchkov. As soon as he finished the call, he spoke to the driver in Russian.

"Steve just told the driver to take us straight to the Kremlin," revealed Gwen after listening to Steve.

"Kozlov is barely hanging on, and he wants to speak to us before he dies. This is looking worse all the time. The Russian State Department tells me Colonel Chernov's arrived in Moscow. They suspect he's responsible for the bomb attacks on the Russian hierarchy, but they need time to connect the dots and find the proof. He could be the next President before they manage to assemble that proof."

As soon as they reached the Kremlin, Steve and Gwen were led into the center of the complex while the others were shown to a well-furnished waiting room. Kozlov was awake when Steve and Gwen entered his room, but he appeared very pale and in obvious pain. His head was wrapped in bandages, as was his abdomen.

Steve immediately noted the presence of Marshall Yahontov, the Commander of the Russian Federation. That title indicated he was the top military man in Russia. He nodded as Steve followed Gwen to Kozlov's side. A doctor stepped away to allow Gwen and Kozlov a private conversation. Yahontov stepped alongside Steve as he and Gwen listened carefully to the weakened voice of President Kozlov.

Half an hour later, Gwen and Steve rejoined their entourage. "Things have gotten pretty strange," began Gwen. "President Kozlov just passed away while we were there. There's great concern about the vacuum these five deaths have created.

"Marshall Yahontov seriously fears Colonel Chernov. Yahontov still controls the Russian military, at least in theory, but he's concerned that more than a few brigades might break ranks and follow Chernov's lead. He's convinced Chernov's responsible for the coordinated attacks on the Russian government. Chernov has grown extremely bold; he's openly making a serious attempt to assume command of the Russian military, as well as the government itself, and he may have the influence to pull it off."

"Exactly why are we here, Gwen?" asked Naomi. "There's something you're not telling us."

"What Gwen hasn't yet said is the real kicker! In about ten minutes, she'll be sworn in and introduced to the world as the Interim President of the Russian Federation!" revealed Steve. "Kozlov managed to squeeze a promise from Gwen just before he passed away."

"What?!" exclaimed Kate. "You can't be serious! That's completely impossible! Russia would never accept a US citizen, never mind a former American President, to serve as President of the Russian Federation, interim or not. Please tell me you're making an insane joke."

"It's no joke," replied Gwen. "Marshall Yahontov will be here any minute to accompany Steve and me to the Great Kremlin Palace to be presented to the citizens of Russia. I'll be sworn in as the Interim President."

"I asked the Marshal to send someone to escort all of you to the Great Palace," added Steve. "Ostensibly, you're simply Gwen's guests," stated Steve as he looked to Chip and Jared. "The reality is things may get pretty dicey when Chernov hears he isn't being named President. I don't know how you can help, but I'll feel better if you're present and already aware of the situation. I only wish we all could go in armed, but that's out of the question. If something goes down, we'll all need to be resourceful."

"I see what's going on," declared Naomi. "They're appointing Gwen Interim President in hopes of holding Chernov at bay until they can proceed with an orderly transfer of power that doesn't include him. They're banking on Gwen's popularity in Russia to overcome the obvious objections many Russians will have."

Two men in dark suits appeared at the door to escort the group to the Great Kremlin Palace. It was only a couple of minutes later when Marshall Yahontov appeared at the door to escort Gwen and Steve to the ceremony.

"If I may have a private word with your husband, Mrs. Hammer?" requested the Russian.

Gwen simply nodded as Steve stepped into another room with Marshall Yahontov. They returned in less than two minutes. Steve appeared grim as he offered Gwen his arm. The walk to the Great Palace of the Kremlin took several minutes, but Steve was very quiet. Gwen knew his taciturn demeanor indicated he was on high alert. He tried not to be obvious about it, but he closely watched their surroundings for any indication of trouble.

There were surprisingly few cameras and reporters in attendance as Gwen and Steve entered the palace. Gwen noted the lack of news people. In the United States there would have been wall to wall reporters and cameras.

Steve saw Chernov standing with several other military officers near the center of the hall. He was a large man with a scar running across his cheek and down over his chin. He was smirking as he joked with the two officers standing closest to him.

As he and Gwen walked farther, Steve noticed that the two of the officers with Chernov wandered with suspicious casualness to the rear of the room. They proceeded to circle to either side of the rather small crowd. Everyone in uniform had handguns holstered at their sides. Steve held back as Yahontov escorted Gwen onto a dais at one end of the room and to a podium.

"People of Russia," began Marshall Yahontov as he faced the cameras. "It is my unpleasant duty to inform you of the passing of President Kozlov. He will be greatly missed."

Yahontov paused as those in attendance gasped, while more than a few broke into tears. Gwen imagined much the same reaction was occurring across the entire nation. Apparently Yahontov was not one to break bad news gently.

"President Kozlov left me with a final request, which I am about to honor. It was his wish that Mother Russia avoid turmoil during the transfer of power following his demise. It was his belief that Russia required the services of an Interim President to serve until we are able to select our next President in a peaceful and orderly manner. The person President Kozlov believed would best serve Russia during this dark time is Mrs. Gwen Anderson Hammer. She will now take the oath of office."

"What the FUCK?" screamed Chernov in Russian. "We will NEVER have an American whore ruling Russia. I will not allow it!"

Heather had been videoing the proceedings when Colonel Chernov burst out with his tirade. While she didn't understand Russian, she could easily tell how displeased the man was. She recorded Chernov as he suddenly began striding toward Gwen. As he walked, he reached for his handgun.

"I'll kill her, cut the bastard from her womb and then kill it with my bare hands!" bellowed Chernov as his hand closed on his weapon.

Steve had seen and heard enough. He took several quick strides toward Chernov, who showed surprise at Steve's aggressive response. Steve delivered a wicked punch to the man's throat. As Chernov staggered backwards, Steve stepped closer, grabbed the man's head and brutally snapped his neck!

As Chernov's body began to sag, Steve grabbed the gun from the dead man's grasp and swung it around to face Chernov's two lieutenants, both of whom were now bringing their weapons to bear on Gwen. Shots rang out. Screams and gun smoke filled the air as the two men fell dead to the floor.

There was a commotion in the back of the room. Steve turned to see Chip stepping away from another officer's body as it dropped from his grip. Hearing a scuffle in the other corner, Steve swung his attention in that direction in time to see Jared deliver a vicious blow to a fifth officer's head. The force of the blow caused the man to slide several feet on his back before coming to rest. The gun which had been in his grip slid another ten feet and lodged against a wall.

Steve scanned the room carefully, nodded to Marshall Yahontov and then allowed the weapon in his hand to drop onto Chernov's inert body. He turned back to Gwen. The entire room was silent as Steve marched forward onto the dais to stand before his wife. Then he dropped to a knee and bowed his head!

Gwen somehow managed to remain stoic as she considered the recent events and the timely actions of her remarkable husband and his fellow warriors. The weeks since her being removed from office had been a roller coaster ride, leading to this very moment.

Gwen formulated her words carefully. She needed to convey both strength and humility. It was imperative for her to remain calm and self-assured. The Russians had to believe the situation was now under control and beneficial to their nation. With Steve still kneeling before her, Gwen turned to the microphone to address Russia and the world.

"Citizens of Russia, I have accepted this very rare and incredible honor only after the strong urging of my Warrior husband. When Marshall Yahontov and President Kozlov presented me with their proposal that I become acting President of the Russian Federation, at first I could see no possible outcome that would benefit either Russia, or me.

"It was my husband who explained that Russia was on the brink of civil war, which would yield control of this great nation to a bloodthirsty madman, the same Colonel Chernov who was probably responsible for President Kozlov's death. That madman was determined to violently seize control of the government and begin a reign of terror that would make Stalin's tyranny pale in comparison.

"President Kozlov discussed this situation with us briefly before he succumbed to his injuries. He and Marshall Yahontov expressed great concern that the explosions which ripped through Moscow, killing the five highest level Russian officials including the President and the Prime Minister, would eventually be traced back to Colonel Chernov, the man who built his reputation in the Georgian War by ordering the brutal murders of hundreds, and possibly thousands of innocents.

"Make no mistake. The Warrior has just altered the course of history. Think about that. Just moments ago, he saved Russia from the rule of a madman, risking his life to do so. His strength and skill are the real reasons I have been asked to serve as your temporary President. The situation was dire. In its time of need, Russia turned to The Warrior. If anyone else had been named President, Chernov would have killed them instantly and laughed as he seized control of your Mother Russia.

"The world knows my husband will always protect me against all dangers. Marshall Yahontov and President Kozlov likely foresaw the very scenario we have just witnessed. When governments hang in the balance, when thousands and thousands of lives are at risk, the world turns to my husband," concluded Gwen.

"Rise, Warrior," intoned Gwen as her eyes clearly reflected her love for Steve.

As Steve stood, Gwen moved close, wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him passionately. Frantic applause erupted from those watching, even as the dead bodies were being removed.

When the pandemonium slowly began to subside, the Chairman of the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation approached Gwen, obviously nervous at this complete break with the traditional succession. He once again glanced over at the Marshall of the Russian Federation, who nodded for him to proceed. Speaking haltingly in his native Russian, he requested Gwen to place her hand on the Russian Constitution and repeat the Oath of Office.

"I swear in exercising the powers of the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic to observe the Constitution and laws of the RSFSR, to protect its sovereignty, respect and protect the rights and freedoms of man and citizen, and the rights of peoples of the RSFSR, and to conscientiously fulfill the duties entrusted to me by the people," repeated Gwen in fluent Russian with a strong, unwavering voice.

"Ladies and Gentlemen," began Amber Stahl from network headquarters in New York, "the world has just born witness to perhaps the most unbelievable, most incredible change of power that it has ever seen.

"Russia, one of the most powerful nations in the world, was under siege from within. Colonel Chernov was poised to seize control of the Russian military, as well as the government. He was the prime suspect in the bombing deaths of the top five Russian bureaucrats. In its time of need, Russia turned to the Queen of Peace and her Warrior, realizing they were the only two people in the world able to end this threat and bring immediate stability to Russia.

"It remains to be seen how the Russian people will accept Gwen Hammer as their President, but personally, I predict she will be welcomed with open arms. While she is as American as apple pie, she has developed a strong bond with the people of Russia, beginning with her very memorable trip here as a high school senior.

"Who will ever forget the incredible photo of Gwen holding the newborn baby with a soft light glowing behind her? That was also when her future husband, her Warrior, first demonstrated his knowledge of global issues and international diplomacy. That Russian trip was, in fact, a glimpse into the future.

"We are told President Rosen is about to make a statement in the Rose Garden," revealed Amber. "We'll go there now."

"My fellow Americans," began Vince Rosen. "The United States sends its heartfelt condolences to Russia. President Kozlov served his nation with honor. He will be missed.

"Quite frankly, the appointment of Gwen Hammer as the Interim President of the Russian Federation took the United States completely by surprise. That said, Gwen and Steve have already delivered on the expectations of the late President Kozlov.

"Russia is far more stable than it was just an hour ago. The world is a safer place because of the valor of this incredible couple. Arrangements will be made for me to attend President Kozlov's funeral when the details are made available. The United States hopes this will be the beginning of a new spirit of cooperation between Russia and the US," concluded Rosen.

The Russian citizenry's initial reaction was shock. No one had ever expected to see a former President of the United States taking the reins of their government. The extraordinary situation was discussed at great length in Moscow, and all throughout Russia. Many Russians, especially the older ones, had grown up disliking and even fearing the United States and anything American.

It was the younger Russians who were first to embrace Gwen's tenure. They had lived through her exploits, seen her movies, her concerts and especially her accomplishments as President of the United States. For the most part, they were proud to have this beautiful woman serving and leading them. Gwen had made it clear she was there to serve the people of Russia as well as to lead them, and that she had nothing personal to gain by so doing.

Their enthusiasm and quick acceptance of Gwen Hammer began to spread throughout the nation. Gwen immediately began to win over the doubters by performing as a selfless public leader. Over the next few weeks, she was seen at schools and hospitals, listening to the concerns of parents, patients, medical professionals and teachers, all while showering the children with love and affection. It was a recipe for success.

Kozlov's body lay in state at the Kremlin for three days. Although quite pregnant, Gwen remained near the coffin, greeting mourners for hours on end. Her husband was always close by her side as he watched over his wife. It was obvious to everyone who came in contact with them that they were a very special couple.

One of Gwen's first official appointments was Vavara Suchkov as her press secretary. She then asked Vavara's father to serve as an advisor. These appointments were met with widespread approval. Many Russians had been concerned Gwen would surround herself with American aides and advisors. Gwen allayed that fear as, paying careful heed to the Suchkovs' recommendations, she appointed numerous Russians to positions of authority.

No one seemed concerned when she announced that her sister Kate, and her very accomplished personal friend Naomi, would also serve in her government as liaisons with the many government officials with whom Gwen interacted.

The people of Russia had their first opportunity to see the Hammers represent their nation just a week after Gwen had taken the oath of office. President Kozlov's state funeral was attended by an unusually large number of world leaders.

It was widely accepted that many world leaders came to Moscow for the opportunity to see, and to be seen with, the Queen of Peace. Gwen did not disappoint. She and Steve met as many leaders at the airport as possible. She smiled, hugged, and posed with them as, on behalf of Russia, she made them feel welcomed.

Russia, as well as the rest of the world, watched when Steve and Gwen welcomed Vince and Cindy Rosen to Moscow. Neither couple made any attempt to behave as anything less than very close friends when they embraced on the tarmac. As attractive as the American First Lady was, the Russians agreed their President was even more beautiful.

The funeral ceremony was broadcast live across the nation. Viewers could not help but admire Gwen's beauty and poise as she interacted with other world leaders. Near the end of the funeral ceremony, Steve played the piano as Gwen sang "Bridge over Troubled Waters", in Russian! Kate and Naomi later told her they believed that was the moment Russia truly fell in love with their new President.

Gwen and Steve settled into their new reality. Saint and Vicky were enrolled in a Russian school instead of one of the English-speaking schools in Moscow, much to the delight of all Russians. It did not go unnoticed that Hungarians Adam and Hanna Kiss moved to Moscow and frequently attended official events with President Hammer and her husband. Their daughter Lena attended the same school as Saint, and the two were inseparable.

Hanna and Adam tutored the pair several evenings a week. They learned the same subjects as the other children while at school, but the Kisses also introduced them to physics, chemistry and advanced math. Steve had instructors teaching the kids various self defense disciplines, as well as several musical instruments three days a week. On the other days, Steve worked on improving the kids' conditioning and strength in the Kremlin's gymnasium.

Reaction in the United States to Gwen's reign as President of the Russian Federation was varied and often predictable. Senator Lancer seized on the unprecedented situation in an attempt to bolster his slumping campaign. He appeared on as many news shows as possible. His message did not waver.

"The former and disgraced President of the United States now sits in the Kremlin. She has had full access to our intelligence. She knows in great detail our military capabilities and weaknesses. Therefore, America is in extreme danger because of her. Nobody on earth has the capacity to damage the United States as badly as she can!" repeated Lancer at every opportunity.

Oddly, a young woman emerged as Gwen's champion in the media. Pamela Stenson, the high school senior who had met Gwen after the Miracle at the Oxbow and the same student body president who had led the student exodus out of Senator Lancer's intended media-grabbing speech in that town, was interviewed on a local station. It was picked up by the networks and she was frequently invited to appear on various news programs to be interviewed.

"Gwen Hammer is the Queen of Peace! She and her Warrior risked their very lives to save Russia from a vicious traitor. No one else on earth could have preserved the peace while ending the threat Colonel Chernov represented," insisted the young woman.

"We are so much safer now than we would have been if Chernov had been successful. Does our Queen know many American secrets? Of course she does. But who among us can point to a single instance when the Hammers have not acted honorably? Who can deny they have proven themselves willing to work, fight, and even die for peace?" challenged Pamela.

"Senator Lancer is representative of the old, self-serving ways in Washington. He seeks to further himself above all others. He's small-minded. He suspects everyone of everything. Only a man who is unworthy of trust himself, is unable to trust another. And tell me... Who has done more to restore our faith in mankind than Gwen and Steve Hammer?

"This is fact. I sleep much better at night knowing my Queen, with her Warrior at her side, is watching over Russia. I plan to step up my efforts to promote Gwen Hammer as the next President of the United States, and I expect everyone watching today to help me make that goal into reality!"

Gwen had been in office almost a month and was only a couple of weeks from her delivery date, when she approached Steve. "There's been a gas explosion in a large apartment complex in Sochi. There's been over 15 fatalities and many serious injuries. An entire apartment complex was pretty well destroyed. I want to visit the scene and offer my support."

"I thought we were going to stay close, so our baby would be born in our Lady in Red hospital here in Moscow. It's probably the best facility in Russia. Traveling in your condition isn't very easy, you know that."

"I won't go if you tell me I shouldn't, but I'm hoping you'll agree. Those poor victims need hope, and they need it now. They may not survive until after our baby is born," worried Gwen.

The next afternoon Gwen, Saint and Steve, along with Hanna, Lena and Adam Kiss, were surveying the damage caused by the explosion. Heather and Colt had asked to join them when Gwen mentioned her intentions the previous evening at dinner. Sybil and Tyler were also there since Sybil refused to allow Gwen to go out in public without her. Heather had been given complete access to Gwen's schedule. Her network had told her to remain in Russia and report anything she felt would be of interest in the states. Gwen's trip had not been announced, and almost no one was expecting them in Sochi.

The Sochi mayor had been one of the few apprised of Gwen's itinerary, and he met them at the airport. The city supplied an extended van for the group to use. Steve was impressed with the man's knowledge of his city. He seemed to know many of the people by name.

"See the girl standing by all those boxes? They're boxes of clothes and canned goods for the victims, donated by concerned citizens of Sochi. She's scheduled an orderly distribution of the items to begin two hours from now, even though I don't know if she's slept since the explosion. She's been on the local radio and in our newspaper asking for donations and setting up the distribution of goods. She's quite an amazing young lady. You actually met her once, Madam President," concluded the mayor.

The young woman, while taking an inventory of the supplies she had collected, noticed a couple of her comrades suddenly go very still. Realizing they were staring at something behind her, Galina Smirnova turned around, only to find President Hammer smiling at her!

"Madam President, my Queen," managed the surprised girl as she dropped to a knee and bowed her head.

"Galina Smirnova! Stand and give me a hug!" insisted Gwen. "I'm so very pleased to see you again. You've grown into a wonderful young woman."

The girl hesitated slightly before standing and approaching Gwen, who promptly swept her into her arms. "You know who I am? You couldn't possibly recognize me," reasoned the teen.

"Your mayor told me you were the baby I helped deliver here on the streets of Sochi. Now you're busy helping others in their time of need. I can't tell you how proud I am of you," replied Gwen.

"We've had a bad time of it," admitted Galina. "We've been doing what we can, but there are far more people hurt, hungry and in need of clothes and housing than we can aid."

"That hasn't stopped you from doing your best for them, which is a lot more than most others," stated Gwen as she studied the teen's face. "Would you accept some help from our company?"

"From Lady in Red?" asked Galina incredulously. "Of course! That would be great. Will you donate some food or something?"

"Or something," chuckled Gwen as she pointed down the street where several large trucks with Lady in Red logos had parked. "We've gathered up some food, clothes and supplies, and now that I've met you, I want you to take charge of distributing it all. We also have people working on finding housing for those displaced by the explosion. As soon as we find places, we'll pass the information on to you. I want you to determine who is the best fit for each home or apartment as they become available."

"That's a lot of responsibility for a person my age, but if you think I can do it, I'll be glad to take care of it. You're even kinder than I heard you were. Did Steve, I mean your husband, come with you? I'd love to meet The Warrior."

"That looks like him walking up the street with a young woman I think may be your cousin," responded Gwen. "He wanted to see the girl he held in his arms as you made your appearance into this world. Your mayor told him where she worked, so he went to find her."

"Gwen, this is Fanya Smirnova. She was that cute little girl I held in my arms as Galina was born. Fanya, this is my wife Gwen," concluded Steve.

Fanya immediately dropped to a knee and bowed her head, only to have Gwen grasp her hand and tug her back up to her feet.

"Look how beautiful you are," praised Gwen. "I hear you're a nurse at the local hospital. I'm so proud of you both, and delighted to be able to see you again."

"Galina is a huge fan of yours. She watches every movie, and every television and internet broadcast you're in," revealed Fanya. "She's always telling people how she was delivered into this world by the Lady in Red, the Queen of Peace, and lately, the President of the Russian Federation. All of Sochi knows her story."

"My cousin neglected to mention all the posters and magazines featuring The Warrior she's collected over the years," confided Galina. "She tells everyone about being trapped in that bombed out building. She claims it was filled with smoke and was shaking, about to collapse, when The Warrior suddenly appeared. He scooped her up and carried her to safety in his strong arms. She told everyone she would marry him when she grew up."

"I was just a young girl then. I would never do anything to harm your marriage, Madam President, not that I ever could," responded a blushing Fanya.

"That sweet fantasy has been shared by a lot of girls over the years," responded Gwen with a laugh. "I should know. It was my fantasy for a long time, too."

"And now you're living the dream!" joked Steve.

Gwen had almost forgotten about Heather until she spoke. She had been standing off to the side videoing the entire exchange.

"This is too good an opportunity to pass up. Could I get some pictures of the four of you standing together? We obviously can't recreate the exact scene, since the girls have grown up. This is the sort of thing people love to see."

The week after returning to Moscow, Gwen gave birth to a son. Leaders from around the world issued congratulatory statements. Gwen had conceived while serving as President of the United States and given birth while President of the Russian Federation!

The infant was named Zachary Robert Hammer. The name Zachary was after Ted's deceased father, while Robert had been Steve's paternal grandfather's name.

"This is an easy one!" pointed out Kate after mulling over the boy's name for a few minutes. "He was born in Russia and his initials are ZR. We'll call my new nephew Tzar Hammer. The T is silent!"

Gwen, Steve, Saint and Vicky spent most of the next two weeks bonding with young Zachary. The family was ecstatic with the new addition. Gwen often caught Steve smiling as he watched her with the children. He made no effort to conceal his pride and pleasure in his growing family. In turn, Gwen marveled at her good fortune in marrying such an incredible husband and father.

In mid-April, Gwen went in front of the Russian nation to reveal the selection of next President. "It's my great honor and pleasure to announce the Federal Assembly has decided the next President of the Russian Federation will be Vlad Novokov!

"He will take the oath of office on May 1st. In honor of his inauguration and the incredibly kind treatment Russians everywhere have given us, Lady in Red will perform a celebratory concert in Red Square immediately after he is sworn in. My husband and I want all Russians to know how much we appreciate the cooperation and support we have received from the people of this great nation. As soon as the inauguration ceremony is complete, we'll take to the stage along with a few very good friends. We hope you enjoy it as much as we've enjoyed Russia since our arrival here in January."

Charlie had been inundated with requests from famous artists around the world who wanted to participate in the concert. The event would be like no other he could remember. The most popular performers of the time were coming together to celebrate Vlad Novokov's presidency and the success of Gwen Hammer's brief tenure as President of the Russian Federation.

Five days after she made the announcement, Gwen and Steve welcomed world leaders to Moscow for the annual G8 summit. Gwen had insisted Vlad and Anna Novokov join them for all the meetings and events. She wanted Vlad up and running from day one, and his interactions with the world leaders would help make that possible.

Russia watched with pride as the Hammers and Novokovs met with other world leaders. The two couples were obviously very comfortable together. Russians were delighted Gwen and Steve were so friendly and respectful to their incoming President and his First Lady.

Gwen and Steve dominated the evening of the formal dinner with their grace, charm and humility. In a room filled with the most important people in the world, the Hammers stood out. They would soon be returning to private life, but no one doubted the power and influence the couple carried so easily on their shoulders.

Gwen looked beautiful as she danced with dignitaries, while Steve captivated the ladies with whom he danced. When Steve and Gwen took the floor together, everyone else simply stood, watched and marveled at their elegant dignity. Many Russians secretly lamented they would soon be losing the Queen of Peace's service as the President of the Russian Federation.

Russian bureaucrats are not known for being succinct, but they made an effort during Vlad Novokov's swearing in ceremony. Once Vlad repeated the Oath of Office, his wife Anna hugged him tightly. She was followed by Gwen Hammer, who hugged him warmly and kissed his cheek. An orderly transfer of power was successfully accomplished without incident. Russia, as well as the rest of the world, breathed a collective sigh of relief.

Vlad kept his remarks brief. He knew the huge crowd which had gathered was there to see Gwen and Steve Hammer perform with Charlie and Jordan Burns.

With so many the performers in attendance, the concert lasted almost seven hours, and hundreds of thousands of people were present and loved it, most of them remaining until the very end. It was more than a concert, it was Gwen Hammer thanking the people of Russia for their kindness while telling them goodbye.

An hour into the concert, Gwen asked Galina and Fanya Smirnova to step onto the stage. The pictures Heather had taken of the cousins with Gwen and Steve had been immensely popular in Russia. The two girls smiling and waving to the crowd while standing with the Hammers brought a roar of approval from the huge crowd.

The motorcade carrying Gwen and her entourage to the airport the next morning saw thousands of Russians lining the streets to honor the woman who, along with her Warrior husband, had saved Russia from the reign of a cruel dictator. The Russian people were extremely grateful. Gwen had graciously helped Vlad Novokov assume the presidency seamlessly. Yielding power so graciously was not a custom with which Russians were very familiar. People cheered as Gwen's limousine approached, and kneeled as it passed. She was truly their Queen.

Gwen and Steve Hammer returned to American soil for the first time since the day of the Spartans' Super Bowl victory. Sparta was teeming upon their return. Business was bustling as tourists had made it one of the most popular destinations in the world.

Always mindful of their hometown and how important they were to its growth and development, Gwen and Steve surprised everyone by strolling into Marsh's Landing the second evening after their return.

The main dining room went completely silent as Gwen, carrying her infant son and holding Saint's hand, entered the restaurant. Steve entered behind her, carrying Vickie on his hip. Gwen immediately recognized Sandy Turner sitting at a table with her family.

"Sandy! Ned! It's so good to see you again," gushed Gwen with a smile as she hugged them both. "Your kids are so adorable! You must be very proud."

"Proud? I guess we are," beamed Sandy. "I have a great family and I love them to pieces. I also have a friend who's pretty much saved the world at least twice, and that makes me super proud. Your baby is so cute!"

Gwen smiled as she carefully handed Zachary to her friend. "He's been a very good baby so far and Saint and Vickie love him to pieces. Steve hasn't been able to wipe that smile off his face since Zachary was born."

Honored that Gwen would entrust her with her baby, Sandy carefully cradled it in her arms while chatting with Gwen for a few minutes about raising babies and how delightful they were.

"Everyone is watching and listening to us. I'm keeping you from your dinner," apologized Sandy. "I'd better give him back so you can eat."

"Would you and Ned care to join us in the other room? I know Saint and Vickie would love to play with your kids. They haven't seen them in months," added Gwen.

"I don't know if I'll ever get used to the most famous people in the world treating my family and me so well," responded Sandy. "We'd be happy to have dinner with your family. Thanks for being so good to us."

"You're a friend, Sandy. We both enjoy your company, even if Ned's jokes are a little lame," teased Gwen.

Steve and Gwen spoke to other diners as they worked their way across the room. It was a source of pride for residents of Sparta that Gwen and Steve remembered their names and spoke with them in such a friendly and personal manner. They were one couple who had never forgotten their roots. That they were so friendly with a "regular family" like Ned Turner's was proof positive their incredible success hadn't gone to their heads.

Lisa gave Gwen and Steve a few days to settle in before stopping in to visit. "I flew back from Washington to speak with you both about the efforts Lady in Red is directing toward politics in Washington. Jason's been pretty busy with FEMA. We're committed to living there for the foreseeable future.

"As Steve and I discussed last fall, I've been creating a network of activists in every state. We have a list of candidates you should consider supporting for Congress in the fall."

"Thanks, Lisa. I knew you'd come through for Gwen," replied Steve. "You made sure they aren't just s bunch of sycophants, right? We want intelligent, independent thinkers."

"I think you'll approve of the people on the list," answered Lisa. "It's almost entirely comprised of people who've never run for an office of any kind. They're carpenters, mechanics, teachers, nurses, truckers... well, you get the idea.

"We looked for hardworking, taxpaying, community minded folks who understand honesty and ethics. Sadly, I expect half, or more, of Congress will be reelected. We have people doing the math, and they're telling me if we replace half of the members of the House of Representatives and a dozen or so senators, it would be a tremendous victory. I was really hoping to run them all out of town, but I'm told that's highly unlikely."
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