Chapter 1: I.1. Shelter
The aroma of pine forest and earth greeted Hannes as he licked his dry lips, tasting the heat and sweat from his morning hike. He trudged on, his heavy hiking boots crunching on the gravel as he attempted to follow the GPS on his phone. He was deep in the remote Italian mountains and he was sure that he should have been back on the hiking trail by now.
But the path had disappeared and the trees had grown dense around him. He silently cursed himself for his lack of preparation; he could have marked his path with ribbons or used a proper hiking map. He took a deep breath, inhaling the crisp mountain air, and tried to calm his nerves.
Hannes always had an affinity for nature and adventure, but his daily routine in the city had left him longing for a break. He wanted to feel the earth under his hands, to hear the sound of his heartbeat as he climbed peaks, and to experience the thrill of getting lost.
This adventure was meant to be his chance to escape the constraints of city life. And yet, now that he was actually lost, Hannes felt a sudden pang of anxiety and vulnerability.
He tried to focus on his breathing as he hiked, carefully stepping over shrubs and weaving through tall trees. But as the sun started setting, the forest grew dim and the temperature dipped. His mind started playing tricks on him – every rustling sound seemed like a predator lurking behind a tree.
He had just begun to panic when he tripped over a root, tumbling down a slope.
The impact knocked the wind out of him and his phone flew out of his hand. Groaning, he tried to move, but pain shot through his leg. Hannes knew that he had to find a way to stay calm – panicking wouldn't help him escape his predicament. He struggled to sit up and assessed the damage. His leg ached and a gash on his thigh oozed blood. He had to get help, but how? He was lost and injured, and he knew he couldn't survive long without medical attention.
With a groan, he slipped into semi-consciousness, his thoughts swirling like leaves caught in a storm.
Just then, a faint melody floated through the air. It was the sweet sound of a lullaby, and it seemed to cut through the chaos in Hannes' mind. He opened his eyes and squinted against the darkness, trying to make out where the sound was coming from.
Suddenly, a figure appeared, bathed in moonlight. Her form was seemingly ethereal, like a dream. She wore long clothing that seemed to flow around her upright stature like water.
Her beautiful, large breasts were encased in thick fabric, supernatural to Hannes' eyes, who couldn't shake the fascination that always came with them. Despite the darkness, her wide, beautiful smile was unmistakable. She hurried towards Hannes, her arms outstretched, her fingers grazing the ground to avoid tripping over roots and rocks.
"Signorino, signorino! Wake up, signorino!" She called out, her voice filled with concern.
She crouched down beside him, and gently shook his shoulders. "Estás herido? ¿Te duele algo?", she asked.
Hannes slowly opened his eyes. He had no idea what she was saying, as it wasn't German, English or any other language he knew. But her soothing touch and concerned expression were comforting. He tried to sit up, and winced as pain shot through his leg. "Ah, scheiße," he muttered, and lay back down, exhausted.
The woman's eyebrows furrowed as she observed him.
She then stood up and began to rummage through the bag she had brought along. Hannes tried to focus on her face, which radiated warmth and comfort. He felt grateful for her presence, as the darkness of the forest seemed a lot less terrifying now.
The woman pulled out a small flask from her bag and walked back towards Hannes. She carefully lifted his head and fed him sips of the warm liquid. It tasted sweet and herbal, and the warmth spread throughout his body, soothing him.
"Thanks," Hannes mumbled, his voice rough from exhaustion.
He looked at her, taking in her beauty. She had a strikingly beautiful face, framed by raven-black hair that cascaded down her shoulders. Her features were well-defined and her skin glowed under the moonlight. A flash of desire ran through him as he looked at her full, round breasts, which were bigger than any he had seen in his 38 years of life, but he quickly shook it off, not wanting to trespass any boundaries.
The woman smiled at him and helped him sit up. She was about twenty centimetres smaller than him, her slender frame radiating strength and grace.
Her hair was wild and untamed, framing her face and cascading down her shoulders in messy curls. Her eyes were deep brown, and full of curiosity.
"You're welcome," she said, her voice soft but steady. "But I still don't understand what you're saying. I'm Maria Tosi, and you are?"
"Hannes Dettmann," he replied, still trying to catch his breath. "And I'm grateful for your help.
It seems I've twisted my leg badly," Hannes added, trying to keep his voice steady despite the pain that lanced through his body each time he moved.
Maria's lips pressed into a thin line of worry as she soaked in his words. She glanced down at the gash on his thigh, a look of concern coming across her face. After a moment of silence, she said, "Let me see how bad it is."
With a gentle hand, she carefully helped Hannes onto his feet.
He winced as he put weight on his leg, but he bit his lip to keep from cursing out loud. Maria gave him a sympathetic look, and led him to a nearby tree stump.
She sat down and patted the spot next to her. "Come, sit here and let me take a look at your leg," she instructed.
Hannes complied, his heart pounding in his chest as he sat down next to the gorgeous woman. Her nearness made his skin tingle with anticipation.
She gently pushed his knees apart, giving him a clear view of her hidden treasure, the very thing that fascinated him. He had never seen breasts as large and voluptuous as hers before, and the sight filled him with desire.
He quickly averted his gaze, lest she notice his lingering look.
Maria, however, was completely unaware of his thoughts. She gently lifted the hem of his pants, and studied the gash on his thigh. "It's not too deep," she said, her voice steady and calm. "But we still need to clean and bandage it before you can move around."
She rummaged through her bag once more and pulled out a vial and a clean piece of white cloth. She carefully cleaned his wound with the vial's content and applied the cloth as a bandage over it.
Hannes gritted his teeth, trying to endure the pain with as much courage as he could muster.
Maria examined him carefully, her eyes filled with concern. "Can you walk?" she asked, her voice gentle.
Hannes tested his leg, wincing as he put weight on it. "Barely," he said, wincing in pain. "But I think I can walk if you help me."
Maria nodded and helped him to his feet. "Alright, let's take it slow. I cannot take you to my village, but it is too far anyway to walk for you in your state. The night is upon us and the path is challenging. But there is a hut not far from here where we can rest until you have regained your strength." She held onto his arm, and together they limped slowly towards the shelter. The moonlight illuminated the forest path, casting a serene glow over the landscape.
The silence between them was broken only by the crunching of gravel under their feet and the distant sound of a river flowing. Hannes couldn't help but gaze at Maria, who moved gracefully beside him. Her figure, enshrouded in darkness, seemed almost otherworldly, like a wood nymph leading him to safety.
There was a mysticism to her, and he couldn't help but feel drawn to her. Those full breasts of hers that he had admired earlier, now swung gently as she moved, as if offering themselves to him.
They stumbled through the forest, Maria guiding him like a compass needle to true north. The moonlights filtering through the trees seemed to grant them the right amount of luminosity, enough to make the path illuminate the way yet dim enough to keep the darkness of the night whispering secrets to them.
Hannes couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to Maria than met the eye. Was it just his imagination, or did she possess an otherworldly grace? He tried to focus on her face as they walked, but his gaze kept shifting to her large, voluptuous breasts. He couldn't help but wonder what it would feel like to touch them, to hold their weight in his hands.
He forced himself to forcibly redirect his thoughts and instead focused on forging a connection with Maria.
After all, he was completely at her mercy. "Your English is quite impressive," Hannes said, still reeling from his impure thoughts.
Maria chuckled softly, her face lighting up under the dappled moonlight that peeked through the canopy above.
"Grazie," she replied, "but I think you give me too much credit. My English isn't as good as I'd like it to be."
Hannes smiled, grateful for the distraction of conversation. "Well, you're certainly better at it than I am at Italian," he joked, his words lacing with a hint of self-deprecation.
Maria chuckled softly again, and the two of them fell into an easy silence as they continued their trek through the forest.
Even with the pain in his leg, Hannes couldn't help but feel a sense of peace settling over him. There was something about Maria's presence that put him at ease—it was as if he had known her for years.
He couldn't explain why, but she seemed so familiar to him. He felt like he could trust her. And her confident and strong personality was a stark contrast to his own, which was why the connection between them was so fascinating.
As they walked, Maria told Hannes about herself and her family, who lived in a secluded village called Montagna. She talked about how her family had lived there for generations, how her people had lived a lifestyle barely touched by the developments of the world below them.
Maria's words and her smooth, honey-like voice painted vivid images in Hannes's mind, allowing him to dive into a world so different from his.
As they traversed through the woodlands, Maria suddenly stopped in front of a small hut, built almost entirely from stones and boulders of the local rock. She opened the door and gently nudged Hannes to move inside.
The hut was small and dimly lit, with a soft light filtering in from the outside. In the corner, there was a small bed made of a simple wooden frame, straw and wool and what looked like a handwoven blanket on top. A pot hung over the extinguished fireplace, which seemed to just be waiting to be lit again. The simple interior felt to Hannes like a time capsule, taking him back centuries into times long past. And yet it was apparent that the hut had been visited repeatedly not long ago. On the simple wall shelves he found clean hand painted plates, cups and different metal pods and containers with what looked like herbal teas and spices from the surrounding mountain flora.
Maria helped Hannes to the bed, carefully propping his leg up on a stack of pillows. She took off his shoes and covered him with the blanket.
The bed creaked softly under his weight, and a peaceful wave washed over him. He was grateful for her help but felt embarrassed at the inconvenience he had caused her.
"I'm sorry to have caused so much trouble," Hannes said, looking away from Maria. He didn't want her to see the guilt in his eyes.
Maria smiled warmly and brushed a few strands of hair out of Hannes' face. "Don't be silly," she insisted. "We Montagnari pride ourselves on being welcoming and hospitable.
We know the mountains, and we know how to respond in emergencies," Maria said with a smile. "But in the morning we must find a way to get you back home. I'll see to your injuries and get you some food, and we can talk more about your story," she said, her eyes still concerned.
Hannes nodding gratefully, "Thank you, Maria, for your kindness. I truly appreciate it," he said, glad for the company and assistance he had been given.
Hannes rested on the bed, watching as Maria moved around the room. She was busy with the fireplace now, and he admired her nimble fingers as she coaxed the flames to life. She had a graceful way of moving, and her face was serene and focused.
He felt a pang of attraction in his chest, but quickly pushed it away. She was kind, but he didn't want to impose his feelings on her.
"Would you like some tea?" she asked, glancing at him with a warm smile. "It's a special blend from the mountains. It will help you relax and heal faster."
"Yes, please," Hannes replied, feeling grateful for her care. He watched as she moved around the room, collecting various ingredients and tools.
She hummed to herself as she brewed the tea, creating a welcoming and peaceful atmosphere. The room had filled with the fragrant aroma of herbs and flowers as the tea simmered over the fire.
Maria eventually returned with a steaming cup in hand, which she offered to Hannes carefully. He thanked her as he took it, noticing her eyes seemed to sparkle in the firelight.
As he took a cautious sip, he found the tea to be surprisingly pleasant – an unusual mix of sweet and savory that warmed him from the inside out.
He leaned back on the worn pillow and allowed himself to relax. The warmth and safety this little hut provided were a respite from the harsh terrain and uncertainty of the outside world.
Slowly, his eyelids grew heavy, and soon, a comfortable sleep took hold of him.
---
When Hannes awoke, he found Maria beside him, sitting by the bedside with a worried expression on her face. She handed him a small bowl of porridge, the warm broth filling his stomach. It was comforting, nourishing, and he couldn't help but be grateful for Maria's efforts.
"This is incredible," Hannes savoured the delicious sweetness of the simple dish, and complimented it. "It's like nothing I've ever tasted before. It's so rich and creamy, yet light at the same time."
Maria's face lit up with pride, and she revealed that she had made it from the best, freshest milk. "I'm glad you like it," she replied, with a warm smile. "Our village produces the purest, most nourishing milk. Its taste is unlike anything you can find in the stores of the lowlands."
Hannes savoured the last bite, and felt a sense of contentment wash over him. He was grateful for Maria's kindness, and for the opportunity to experience a taste of the simple life that she lived. The porridge was a delight, and he could feel its rejuvenating effects as he swallowed each bite.
Maria watched him with a small, satisfied smile, as if she were proud of his reaction. She really did love to cook and nourish, it was as if doing so allowed her to connect with others on a deeper level.
Maria looked at Hannes curiously. "It is rare that I have the chance to talk to people from outside our villages. Please tell me more about you, Hannes!" Maria said with a curious smile, watching him as he devoured the porridge.
Hannes looked up, taking a moment to compose himself. "Well, I'm a nature lover who loves hiking. I live in Berlin and work as a forest ecologist, researching the biodiversity of different habitats. I grew up in the countryside but moved to Berlin after school in order to study. I have been living there ever since, but I've been longing for a break from the hustle and bustle of daily city life," he replied, smiling back at Maria.
Maria nodded thoughtfully, reflecting on his words.
She had heard travelers speak about the frenetic pace of city life, but had never experienced it herself. She could see how someone’s soul would yearn for a simpler existence after dwelling among the concrete and smog.
“You are lucky, Hannes,” she said, unable to contain her enthusiasm. “Berlin is a fascinating place, but it is also a think tank of humanity. Active minds collaborate there, creating ideas that spark change in politics, innovation, and the arts. But the beauty of nature, the ever-changing seasons, and the tranquility of a simple life in harmony with the world around us, are lost in the smog and chaos. The way you describe it, I would love to visit one day, but I could never live there."
Hannes felt an odd sense of comfort from her perspective. He had often yearned for the freedom of the mountains she spoke of, but he couldn't deny the excitement and energy he harnessed from Berlin's brimming vitality.
Maria watched him closely, her eyes gleaming with curiosity. Hannes noticed her enthusiasm and smiled. "I understand how you feel," he replied with a mild smile. "I've spent my life pacing through Berlin's busy streets, but the craving for nature, adventure and serenity is something I cannot quench. I envy you to have grown up in a village surrounded by so much truth and beauty and I would love to experience it myself." Hannes admitted, a hint of wistfulness in his voice.
Maria looked at him sympathetically, her deep brown eyes full of compassion. "I understand your longing, Hannes. I really do. But I'm afraid it's impossible for you to visit our village."
Hannes frowned, puzzled by Maria's response. "Why? I'm sure I could manage the journey if I take it slow."
Maria sighed, a troubled look crossing her face. "It's not just about the journey. Montagna is not like any other place you've visited before. We have our traditions, and our way of life is different from anything you've ever experienced."
"I don't mind. I'm open to new experiences. I'm sure I can learn from your culture." Hannes insisted, hopefulness shining in his eyes.
Maria looked at him with a mixture of sadness and understanding. "I know you mean well, Hannes, but it is not as simple as that. Our traditions are deeply ingrained in our way of life. They are not just rituals or customs, they are the very foundation of our existence in these harsh mountains. We have survived for millennia by living in harmony with nature and each other, and our traditions are what guide us."
She paused, taking a deep breath before continuing. "But there is one tradition that I must uphold, no matter how much I wish it were different. It is part of our customs to not have contact with outsiders. It is not out of malice or fear, but out of respect for our ancestors and the way of life they have built for us."
Hannes looked at her, a mixture of disappointment and confusion etched on his face.
Maria looked equally pained as she continued. "I understand your longing to learn about our traditions, Hannes. But my duty is to respect my ancestors' wishes and protect this way of life from outside influences."
Hannes leaned back, digesting this information. He could understand Maria's point of view, but his adventurous spirit remained unquenched. "What if I promised not to reveal anything about your village or its traditions? Could I visit then?" Hannes asked, holding his breath as he waited for her answer.
Maria shook her head sadly. "Even if you promised, I fear that any contact with outsiders would disrupt our way of life. It is not just about the potential harm that could come from your actions, but also about the risk of diluting our traditions and losing the harmony that has sustained us for so long. I am sorry, Hannes, but I cannot let you visit our village."
Hannes sighed, disappointed, but he could see the sincerity in Maria's eyes and knew that she was telling the truth. "I understand, Maria. I respect your commitment to preserving your culture. I wouldn't want to be the cause of any disruption or harm," Hannes said with a nod of understanding, pushing down his disappointment.
Maria smiled warmly at him, appreciating his acceptance. "I am truly sorry to have to turn you away. You seem like a kind and curious person, and I would have loved to show you our way of life."
Hannes glanced at Maria's impressive cleavage for a second before turning his attention back to her face. He couldn't help but feel a tinge of regret for not being able to explore her world further. Maria must have sensed his disappointment, as she leaned forward and placed a gentle hand on his knee. "I'm so sorry, Hannes. I really am." Maria said, sincerity shimmering in her eyes. Suddenly, as she leaned in closer to comfort him, her ample bosom brushed against his chest.
Hannes' body reacted subtly, and Maria noticed it. She pulled back, a surprised look on her face. "I'm sorry," she said, her cheeks flushed. "I didn't mean to-" But before she could finish her sentence, Hannes interrupted her. "No, it's alright," he said, trying to sound calm and composed. "It's just- I'm not used to such close proximity with women."
Maria raised an eyebrow. "Really?" she asked, skepticism clear in her voice. "But you're a grown man, aren't you?"
Hannes nodded. "Yes, I am. But I used to lack confidence, and I've never been very good with women," Hannes admitted, feeling a little embarrassed.
Maria gave him a sympathetic smile. "I understand. It can be difficult to navigate social interactions when you're not used to them. But there's nothing to be ashamed of. Everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses."
Hannes nodded, feeling a sense of relief and gratitude towards Maria for her understanding and kind words. "Can I ask you something?" he ventured, his curiosity piqued. "I don't know if you're even aware of it, but you are very well-endowed by 'normal' standards." Maria blushed deeply, taken aback by the sudden comment. She looked away, avoidant, before meeting Hannes' eyes again. Her cheeks were flushed, her heart racing. She found herself struggling to refocus her attention, trying to push away the odd feeling that flowed through her.
"I don't... I don't know what you mean," she stammered, her tone perturbed.
Hannes smiled sheepishly. "Pardon me for that. I meant no offense, truly. It's just that your… figure struck me as striking, and I've never seen breasts as large as yours in my life," Hannes said carefully, aware that his comment might be offensive.
Maria blushed but remained surprisingly composed. She glanced down at her chest before returning her gaze to Hannes. "I see. Well, in my culture, this is normal. All women have breasts like mine. Actually, mine are still considered small due to my young age. It's one of the unique features of our people." Maria explained, looking down at her chest with a soft smile.
Hannes noticed for the first time the subtle curves of Maria's nipples bulging softly through the fabric of her white dirndl blouse. He couldn't help but feel his gaze lingering there, wanting to explore that forbidden terrain.
"It is one of our sacred traditions for women to have large breasts that lactate, regardless of whether they are pregnant or not. We use the milk for sustenance and also, for making cheese and yogurt. It is considered a gift from the Divine Mother, a symbol of nurture and fertility." Maria looked slightly uncomfortable discussing the topic, but her eyes shone with pride talking about her culture.
Hannes was in utter shock at her blunt revelation and couldn't believe it. "What do you mean they lactate without being pregnant?" he asked, incredulous, staring at her big breast confined in her dirndl's bodice.
"Yes," Maria affirmed, her eyes shining with a deep sense of pride. "It is indeed a part of our culture, a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation and has ensured our survival in this harsh terrain for countless generations despite the shortage of agricultural land and almost constant persecution. It is a way of life, a way of connecting with our ancestors and understanding the world around us. The knowledge and practice have been an integral part of our community for centuries, shaping our identity and our values. To tell you the truth, it is not something that we ever thought of as strange or unusual. It is simply who we are and what we do.
Intrigued, Hannes inquired further about their practices. "How can this be possible?" he asked, genuinely puzzled yet respectful of her culture.
Maria shrugged. "As I said, it's a gift from the Divine Mother—I don't know how or why, but it just is. All the women in our villages have been blessed with this ability. Our ancestors believed it was because of our unique connection with the Divine Mother, who bestowed upon us this sacred duty to provide sustenance to our families."
Hannes listened, mesmerized by Maria's tale. "And your ancestors have been passing down this knowledge? Has any scientific research been conducted to further understand this condition?"
Maria shook her head. "While there may be scientific explanations, generations of my people have preferred to believe and live by traditions passed down orally through stories that connected us to the Divine. Science has only surfaced in our lives in recent years." Maria bit her lip and looked as if she were about to reveal something. Hannes leaned forward, expecting her to continue.
"We avoid outsiders because lowlanders have hunted us or captured and abused our women for their 'unique abilities' since before antiquity. They also seek to erase all memory of humanity's indestructable bond with the Divinie. So, we hide—even from those who might mean us no harm." The sadness in her eyes was unmistakable, but there was also resolve. Maria would continue to honor her foremothers' tradition of secrecy.
Hannes' eyes light up with realisation. "The Divine Mother...is that the same Mother that teachers like Sri Aurobindo talked about?" Hannes asked, recalling Sri Aurobindo's book, 'The Mother,' which he had recently read. "I don't know much about him, but it sounds like it might be. Our people don't have any written religious texts. Our connection to the Divine is a part of our oral history."
"I see." Hannes mulled her words over and asked, "What do you make of this connection? I mean, is it a belief or a lived experience for you?"
"It's both, I guess. I have experienced it as a lived reality, but it's also an inherent part of our cultural identity." Maria looked away, her gaze drifting toward the distant mountain peaks. She lowered her voice as if sharing a secret. "My ancestors believed that we are all part of the same universal energy, and this is our way of staying connected - physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Their stories and rituals carry centuries of wisdom, and help us understand life on a deeper level."
Hannes considered her response, nodding thoughtfully. "You know, years ago when studying Sri Aurobindo's teachings, I developed a strong devotion to the Divine Mother myself. To the extent that I too experienced her as a lived experience. It lasted for about a year until..." Hannes sighed, a tinge of longing in his voice. "...let's say a darkness was intentionally brought upon the world and managed to take hold of me too. My fascination with the Divine Mother waned, and although my mind often wandered to her presence, I strayed further from a spiritual path I felt connected to. Perhaps if I had encountered you earlier in my life, things might have been different."
Maria listened attentively as Hannes shared his personal journey. She sensed a kindred spirit in him and found herself drawn to him in a way that she could not quite explain. She felt that they were long-lost friends reunited after many lifetimes. "I believe that the Divine Mother has her own ways of guiding us to where we need to be, and bringing us together at this time is not a mere coincidence," Maria said, looking intently into Hannes' eyes.
Hannes blushed and looked down, surprised by Maria's intensity and her insightful words. He fumbled for a response, unsure of what to say.
Maria leaned in closer to him, her huge, heavy breasts brushing against his arm, her eyes full of earnestness. "I may not know you well, but my heart tells me I can trust you, Hannes." Her words took him by surprise, and he suddenly became acutely aware of her nearness. He swallowed hard, searching for something to say. "I-I appreciate that, Maria. And I want you to know that I admire and respect you and your community." She smiled at him, nodding in acknowledgment before pulling away and standing up. "It is getting late, and I should be getting some sleep. And you should too, so your leg can heal." Maria motions Hannes to recline on the bed. "I'll be right outside if you need me." She smiles warmly and exits the small room that is separated only by a thin wooden wall from the rest of the house's interior.
Hannes watches her leave and feels a flood of gratitude towards her kindness. Despite the strangeness of their encounter and the seemingly impossible situation, he can't help but be drawn to her spirituality and sincerity. He lies back on the bed and soon drifts off into a peaceful sleep, dreaming of rolling narrow cobble stone alleys with small flower decorated windows and the laughter of children.
---
As the first rays of morning light filter through the window, Hannes slowly stirs from his untroubled slumber. The pain in his leg has lessened significantly, the warmth of Maria's blanket having soothed his aching muscles throughout the night.
Maria, true to her word, had slept outside the room, ensuring Hannes' privacy and a peaceful slumber. Now, the sound of birds and the gentle rustling of the forest outside the hut filled the humble room.
Hannes rises from the bed, testing his weight on the wounded leg gingerly. Although still a bit tender, it seems to bear his weight with relative ease. Hannes tests the leg one last time before slowly opening the door to the other room. He finds Maria, as she prepares breakfast, her petite figure moving gracefully around the kitchen.
Her back turned towards him, Maria makes her porridge once more, holding one of her big, heavy breasts in her hand and squeezing her milk into the metal pot. The gentle sound of liquid trickling into the container fills the room, and Hannes watches her with fascination, as if witnessing a secret ritual. Every inch of her back, from her neck down to the top of her richly decorated traditional skirt, was smooth and flawless. The curve of her hips and slender waist were a perfect framework for those generously proportioned breasts. Her milky skin was glowing, and a few wisps of hair rested on the nape of her neck. Hannes found himself inexplicably drawn to Maria, her spirituality, and the enticing conversation they shared the last evening. Standing there, in the doorway, he marvels at the simplicity and beauty of the scene, his eyes lingering on Maria's curves. He decides to venture closer to her as she cooks, unable to resist his carnal curiosity.
"Maria," Hannes begins hesitantly, leaning into the kitchen. "About last night... I was wondering. I don't want to overstep any boundaries with my curiousity, but I couldn't help but be so captivated by you."
Maria pauses in her cooking, a smile playing upon her lips as she turns to face him, her exposed heavy breast still resting on her palm. Hannes glances at the droplets of milk running from her perfect, pink nipple.
"I don't know what you're thinking, Hannes," she says with a raised eyebrow, her tone lightly playful. "But if you want answers, you might as well ask me in a straightforward fashion."
Hannes exhales deeply, finding his voice once again. "I... I can't stop thinking about last night. Your words resonated with me, Maria. I find myself...I'm unable to shake the feeling that destiny has brought us together for a reason," Hannes confesses, his heart racing as he steps closer to Maria.
Maria raises an eyebrow, a look of intrigue in her eyes. "I see," she says, setting the pot of hot porridge to the side before turning her full attention to Hannes. "Are you saying you want to... explore our connection further?"
Hannes swallows hard, feeling his heart pound in his chest. "Yes, I suppose I am."
Maria studies him for a moment, her gaze softening. She sighs and sets aside the porridge, the question hanging heavy between them like the sweet scent of morning dew along the horizon. "I understand your desire to explore this connection," she begins, her voice gentle and measured. "But I must tread carefully, as our traditions and my family's expectations dictate my actions. I cannot simply invite any stranger into my home and heart without proper consideration."
"I understand," Hannes replies, his eyes never leaving hers. "I respect your traditions and your obligations to your family. I would never ask you to compromise them."
Maria smiled, relieved that he understood. She returned her gaze to the pot of porridge she had placed aside, uncertain of what to say next. A moment sufficed, and she looked back at Hannes, her expression serene. "But there is something I will admit," she continued, her voice hushed. "Since you arrived, I find myself drawn to you as well. I too feel a connection that I cannot quite explain. It brings a feeling of peace, happiness, and excitement." Maria confessed, her eyes sparkling with fascination.
Hannes nodded solemnly at her words, feeling relieved and grateful that Maria felt the same draw towards him. "There is no need to explain it. Often, these feelings don't require logical reasoning. Your words and your presence have affected me in a profound way, Maria."
"I'm glad to hear that," Maria replied, her heart skipping a beat at Hannes' sincere expression. She couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement in her stomach, knowing that they shared a connection that transcended the barriers of their cultures. But as she spoke, her gaze inadvertently drifted downwards, and she realized that the blouse and bodice of her dirndl were still open, revealing her big bare breasts. She felt a wave of embarrassment wash over her, her cheeks burning with heat.
Hannes, noticing her discomfort, quickly looked away, his face flushing with guilt. "Oh, Maria, I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to... I didn't notice. I was just lost in our conversation." He stammered, trying to apologize.
Maria raised her hand to her chest, her eyes still downcast. "It's alright," she murmured, her voice soft. "It's not your fault. I just got carried away in our conversation."
Hannes hesitated, unsure if he should make any move to rectify his mistake. But Maria, somehow sensing his unease, extended a hand towards him. "Here," she said, offering him her porridge, a slight smile playing on her lips. "Let's have breakfast together. I'm starving." Maria said, as if nothing had happened, removing her hand from her chest again, her exposed breasts moving softly from the motion.
Hannes took the porridge from her and set it on the table next to his. He pulled out a chair for Maria, who sat down gracefully, and then he sat down opposite her.
As they ate in silence, Hannes couldn't help but steal glances at Maria's exposed breasts moving gently as she ate her meal. He felt guilty for his fascination, but he couldn't control it. He wanted to understand how this was possible and why he was so drawn to it.
Maria noticed his furtive glances and smiled. "I know what you're thinking," she said with a twinkle in her eye. "And I'm not offended. I know my body is different from what you're used to. But to me, it's perfectly normal, and it has always been a part of my life."
Hannes nodded, feeling a mix of respect and embarrassment. "I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable. As I said, I've just never seen anything like this before, and I can't help but be curious."
Maria smiled warmly. "It's okay, Hannes. I understand. And I appreciate your honesty.
"Would you mind, then, if I asked you more about your body's unique ability to lactate freely?" Hannes asked, his fascination taking an academic turn. Maria thought for a moment before responding. "I suppose not, as long as the nature of your curiousity is purely educational and respectful."
"Of course," Hannes agreed, nodding. "I want to learn more about your traditions and your people. I have so many questions about how your body functions, but I promise to treat the subject with respect and curiosity, not with any impure intentions." Hannes looked at her earnestly, and Maria believed him. She sighed and nodded. "I understand your fascination, but I am not sure where to begin."
Hannes leaned forward, his eyes shining with excitement. "How about we start with the beginning? How did this tradition come to be in your family and your village? Was it always like this?"
Maria inclined her head, considering his question. "As far as I know, the ability to produce milk has always been present in our culture. My grandmother used to tell us stories passed down from her ancestors that spoke of a time when the Divine Mother blessed humanity with the gift of nourishment. Grandma Grazia claims that initially all women on this earth were bestowed with bodies like ours. But over time undivine forces started to exert their influence on the people and so they gradually lost their divine gifts through a seeping corruption. Now mostly only through pregnancy can they lactate and that only in tiny amounts of milk in comparison to before. It was only then that humans began looking for other sources and started stealing milk from other mammals. And from what you told me about the breast size of your women, Hannes, their size also seemed to have decreased significantly." Maria looks sad but with a hint of pride. "As far as I know, it is only us Montagnari that successfully retained the gifts of the Mother through our faithful dedication to her. But who knows, maybe somewhere on this earth there are others out there like us..." Maria's eyes shimmered with a mix of sadness and reverence as she shared the snippet of her history with Hannes. He leaned into the conversation, his hunger for knowledge momentarily eclipsing that for food.
"So, the tradition has been passed down in your family through the generations?"
"Not only in mine but in all Montagnari families. And it's not just about producing milk here in Montagna," Maria continued, "but we also use it in our daily lives to nourish our families and honor the Divine Mother. We make all sorts of things like yogurt, cheese, and desserts; it's central to our lives as a people. In fact, all these years, our ancestors subsisted mainly on breastmilk products until the availability of agriculture became more widespread, a few hundred years ago."
Hannes wanted to understand more about their lifestyle, customs, beliefs, and how they had managed to protect this secret for so long. "Maria," he asked hesitantly, "as much as I am fascinated by your community's traditions and lifestyle, I do wonder why you hide it from the rest of the world and what you fear."
Maria looked at Hannes with a hint of sadness in her eyes. "Again, you have raised a valid point. Our community has faced unimaginable persecution over centuries. We are not alone in this, though. The dark forces have persecuted all free peoples of this Earth, subjugating them tribe by tribe. They conquered or infiltrated them, twisting or erasing their cultures, as they did to yours, Hannes, and are trying to do to mine."
Hannes looked at Maria with surprise and curiosity. "What do you mean by that? I can't recall any history lessons about people with such abilities."
Maria sighed. "The ones who write history are often those who wield power. They paint a picture that serves their narrative, leaving out those who are different or don't fit into their worldview. The Montagnari have been hidden away, protecting ourselves and our traditions for centuries. Our history is not something you will find in any mainstream books." She paused for a moment, collecting her thoughts. "The world has always been full of diversity, and there were once many cultures like ours. Sadly, their voices have been silenced, and their stories left untold. Even our own survival has often hung in the balance."
Hannes frowned, his heart aching for the Montagnari people's suffering. "It's a shame that the forces have managed to erase so much of our shared human heritage. But, Maria, I'm glad I stumbled upon your village. I'm grateful for the opportunity to learn about your traditions and culture. I feel like it can teach me more about my own lost heritage."
Maria smiled warmly at him. "As am I, Hannes. It is rare to find someone so genuinely curious and accepting of our ways. But we must continue this conversation another time, as we have finished breakfast and need to leave now. We have a long hike ahead of us to reach Montagna."
Hannes looked stunned in surprise and excited. "Are you saying you will take me to your village after all? I thought you were determined to uphold the rule of not exposing your culture to outsiders?" Hannes said, a tinge of concern coloring his voice.mMaria paused and looked at him, eyes twinkling with mischief. "I have my reasons. And besides, there is something about you that makes me believe you will respect our secret and cherish it as much as I do."
The notion filled Hannes with a deep sense of honor, her faith in him humbling him further. He nodded and said, "Of course, Maria. You can trust me with all your heart."
Maria looked at Hannes, her dark eyes glistening with a mixture of gratitude and affection. "I know," she replied softly.
Hannes felt a warmth spread through him as he looked back at her. He had never met someone so kind and genuine, who made him feel so seen and appreciated. They shared one last moment together before Maria stood up, put her heavy breasts back into the blouse of her dirndl and signaled that it was time to leave. "We should get going," she said. "It's a long journey back to Montagna, and we don't want to be caught in the mountains after dark."
Hannes nodded, slowly rising to his feet. His leg felt much better now, but he still walked with a slight limp. Maria noticed this and offered to help him, but he declined, insisting that he could manage on his own.
Gathering their belongings, Maria took one last look around the hut, ensuring they had left nothing behind. Satisfied, they stepped out into the crisp mountain air, the sun still hanging low in the sky.