NationStates Jolt Archive

The flight to Tarasovka was one that Angelina Ormond had not pictured herself on, especially not in an official capacity. To be honest she never thought that she would be on her way there at all, but Fate had a way of making things happen that were more than a little unexpected. She still could not really believe that she had been given the role of Ambassador of Tartarus in Tarasovka. All of it coming from a night in Devras for the Coronation of Imperatrice Nathicana.

Settling back in the seat, she accepted a glass of wine from the Stewardess, and gazed absentmindedly out of the window, watching the clouds as they floated below, looking like a bed of cotton wool spread across the sky. She took a small sip of her drink, and stretched her legs out in front of her, relaxing totally as she let her mind wander. She had work to do, she knew, but she would have plenty of time to catch up, it was not as if she was going home in a couple of days.

As she sat there, her thoughts turned towards the night in Devras causing a smile to spread across her lips. She lifted her drink to her mouth, and took another sip as she let her eyes close bringing into her vision the face of Ithun Khat. Cupping the glass in her hands, she let her mind drift.

* * * * *

Devras, DLN, Day after the Coronation

Deborah Cornick looked up from her task of packing as she heard the door open and smiled as she saw Angelina enter, her gaze following her roommate as she made her way over to the bed and collapsed down upon it. Debbie raised her eyebrows, a questioning look upon her face, wondering whether she should speak first or allow her friend to begin the conversation. After a moment, when no words were forthcoming from Angelina, Debbie stopped what she was doing and smiled.

“So, are you going to tell me where you’ve been all night?” She moved to the side of her own bed, and perched on the edge.

“Mmm.” Angelina let out the lowest of sounds, before rolling over on her side and looking over at her colleague. “I had a very nice look around Devras, with a very entertaining guide.” She grinned slyly, as her eyes twinkled mischievously. “What more can I say?”

Debbie burst out laughing. “Looking at you, I would say a hell of a lot more.” She picked up the pillow from the bed and tossed it at her friend. “You know that Stratton is going to tear you to pieces once he runs into you.” She shook her head as she rose from the bed and walked over to the wardrobe, pulling out some more belongings.

Resting her head on her hand, her elbow resting on the bed, Angelina laughed. “No he isn’t. I met him before breakfast. He was most cordial…which I must admit surprised me a bit considering he went to the Ball on…his…own.” She stuttered as she watched the look on her companions face. She sat up right and looked incredulous. “You didn’t?”

Nodding her head slowly, Debbie broke into a grin. “I was trying to keep you out of trouble.” Suddenly her smile disappeared and was replaced by a frown. “I’m afraid I didn’t do a very good job. He guessed it wasn’t you.” She shrugged slightly as she lowered the garment into the case. “But he didn’t seem that upset.” Gazing at her friend, she gave Angelina a concerned look. “That doesn’t mean he won’t be livid once we get back to Tartarus.” She shook her head. “I wouldn’t be surprised if we aren’t both dismissed as soon as the plane lands.”

Angelina burst into another fit of laughter. “Oh, you worry too much.” She rolls onto her back and gazes up at the ceiling. “How can he be angry when I was building international relations?” She flicked her gaze to Debbie, as both of them giggled.

* * * * *

Angelina put down her book, struggling to get into the story. She placed it on the seat beside her, and picked up her laptop, and placed it on the table before her. Tapping a few buttons, she pulled up a work document, guiding her eyes over the information, before her mind once again began to wander. Flicking the mouse, she clicked on an old email and reread the message, smiling as she took in the words of congratulations sent to her from Ithun.

She shook her head once again, recalling the path that got her to this moment in time. How much had come about from her dance with a stranger from Tarasovka. She blushed slightly as she remembered exactly where that first meeting had taken her. If someone had told her she would meet someone at the Carnivale and her life would change so drastically she would have laughed at them. But here she was, the proof that good things could happen.

Unable to focus on the work ahead, finding herself more than a little excited at the prospect of meeting Ithun again, more so than actually taking up the position that had been bestowed upon her, she slipped the laptop back into its case, and once again relaxed back into the chair, her thoughts arriving at her destination before her.

* * * * *

Erebus, Tartarus. Several days after the return from Devras.

Emma Sarie, Secretary of Foreign Affairs looked up from her paperwork and looked at the young woman who sat before her. She had been given a full report of her behaviour in Devras, and though she was far from happy that one of her staff had let her down, it turned out to be a more beneficial move than she had expected. Still, Lord Stratton did not want to make a large song and dance over the incident, as it had not caused too much of a problem.

“I don’t think I need to tell you that you were sent to Devras in an official capacity.” Emma frowned slightly. She had been young once, and carefree, but that did not mean she did not know duty. “Your running off with another diplomat, though not the worse thing that could happen, does not put the Empire in a very good light.” She sighed and shook her head. “But as we have not received any outside complaint concerning your conduct, I think we can close this incident with a warning.”

Angelina smiled slightly, looking very demure and abashed at her behaviour, even though given the night to do again, she would not alter her actions one bit. “I understand that I overstepped the mark. It will not happen again.”

Emma nodded her head, a smile playing at her lips. “I’m sure it will not.” She then sighed. “But I have had a request from Lord Stratton. He has asked that you be replaced in his service. He seems to think that you would work better under your own steam, and I agree. You can hardly run off if you are the official delegate for the nation.” She closed the file. “You have been very lucky today, Angelina. You might not be so lucky next time.”

* * * * *

Looking out of the window, Angelina could see the ground growing nearer and nearer. She took in her first view of Tarasovka below, glad that her journey had almost reached its conclusion. Checking her seatbelt, she made herself comfortable for the landing, looking forward to once again being on the ground. She wondered for a moment if she should be worried about her life ahead, worried that it would not work out and in a few months she would find herself back in Tartarus. But most of all, she could not help worrying that things had changed between her and Ithun. Perhaps he had forgotten her already.

She felt the plane touch down, and sat silently as it taxied its way off the runway, and drew to a stop. Gathering all her things together, making sure not to leave anything behind, she made herself ready to step off the plane, and begin her new role in a new country.

Capital City of Vigvar, Federal Sisgardian Fiefdoms.

The convoy of slim black hovercars sped through the streets of Old Vigvar, a police escort opening the way to the cars bearing governmental number plates. Ithun sat in one of the limousines, a diplomat from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs opposite him, looking out of the windows on the streets of the capital.

“Memories, hmm?” Said the diplomat as he took a sip of wine from his glass, his eyes quickly glancing at Ithun’s one, untouched, resting in the young man’s hand as his eyes wandered from the window to face the diplomat.

“Yes,” he said, grinning suddenly, “and not even memories…” He said as he raised his glass and sipped some wine. “Daydreams.” Ithun looked outside, just as the convoy was passing the 20 kilometers long Bridge of Swords that connected the Old Vigvar in the south with its northern part over the Vigvar Gulf.

* * * * *

Devras, DLN, Day after the Coronation

Vladimir shook his head as Ithun showed up at their aircraft mere moments before take off. The young man had the face of a happy cat and one could even imagine hearing some purring coming from the Airborne officer. All of the Taraskovyan personnel were gathered, seated and ready to leave, the craft taking off swiftly from the landing pad.

“Had a nice time, Lieutenant?” Vladimir said as he hit several keys on a laptop type of device, sipping some wine.

“Yes, General.” Ithun said, pouring himself some wine (that came out to be a local brand) and looked up at his superior. “What are you doing?”

Vladimir smiled as he shook his head. “Just looking through those Kaskad and MFA dossiers on the NDA, especially on the Arkhora. It would seem she is quite… well… let’s say she had all the time she needed to become an experienced leader…”

“You and your politically correct talk. Oh, wait, you spent the evening with the Arkhora?"

"Yes, why?"

"Oh, nothing." Ithun shook his head to chase the evil thoughts away and radically changed the subject of the conversation. "Have you begun compiling the debriefing report, yet?”

“No.”

Ithun looked at the General up with eyes full of surprise and misunderstanding. Such an attitude from Miloludov was very… surprising. Vladimir only grinned as he erupted into laughter. “Of course I have begun the debriefing report. After all, if all Taraskovyan delegates followed your example, the Federation would be even more isolated than it is today.”

Ithun looked out of the window on the city of Devras that was now visible in the distance below and pondered. “Speaking of isolation, Sir…” The young officer grinned, took a sip of his wine and looked his superior into the eyes. “I already have some suggestions to be incorporated into the debriefing…”

* * * * *

Capital City of Vigvar, Federal Sisgardian Fiefdoms.

The gigantic complex of the Vigvar International Aerospace Port was bustling with activity. Aircraft of various origins and technologies landed and took off in specially arranged sectors. Vetrical Take Off and Landing or standard jets, the VIAP had the infrastructure needed, also incorporating a military airfield and a VIP sector for ‘special occasions’. After all, the Aerospace Port did occupy a major share of the Northern Vigvar Plateau and could be called a city of its own. One could, thus, easily guess which sector the convoy headed for.

The welcoming committee was in place before the plane with Tartarian personnel landed, the diplomats from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs ready to greet the most welcomed guests while the representative of the Secretariat of Foreign Relations stood behind, amused and intrigued and even, he had to admit it, slightly nervous at the idea of seeing her again. After all, during several months their relations were limited to that offered by various communication means. And they only spent a day together. And… and… he shook his head violently and chased all of the doubts away just as the plane landed.

Stopping halfway to the exit of the plane, Angelina took a moment to take in the scene. Around her the hustle and bustle of her colleagues as they gathered together everything they needed. Amidst the confusion, the voice of one man could be heard over the top of the others, as Keith Mortimer arranged the staff to some semblance of order. He looked over to the new Ambassador and smiled at her, raising his hand in the general symbol of okay. Nodding her head, she returned his smile, and continued towards the door, suddenly feeling nervous.

Berating herself for being foolish, Angelina paused once more to run over some last minute details with her secretary as the airplane staff began to prepare for disembarking. Bending slightly, Angelina took a brief look out of the window, to see whether the only person she knew in Tarasovka personally was present. Flicking her eyes quickly over the scene before her, she was interrupted just as she thought she had laid eyes on the one she seeked.

“Ma’am, we are ready when you are.” A voice broke through her thoughts, drawing her attention.

Brushing her hands lightly over her body, getting rid of any creases that she may have picked up in her outfit during the flight, Angelina nodded. “I’m ready.” She looked back at Keith. “You have everything in hand?”

His laugh greeted her question. “You can rely on me to get this lot to the Embassy.” He shot her a quick wink. “Get going before they think we’ve changed our mind.”

Smiling as she turned towards the door, Angelina stepped out of the plane, and made her way down the steps, a big smile nervously pasted on her lips, not obvious to the general bystander.

* * * * *

Erebus, Tartartus

Angelina sat at her desk, her fingers running up and down her pen, as she stared into space wondering what was going to happen to her. She had always hoped that she would progress up the ladder and become someone in her own right, she just never realised that it would take place so soon, or under such circumstances. She threw the pen into the box that was slowly being filled with her belongings.

“I thought you would be happy, moving on.” The male voice floated into her consciousness, causing her to look up at the familiar sound. “I cannot believe you are unhappy about leaving me.”

Angelina pulled open her draw and began to rummage inside. “Lord Stratton, it’s very kind of you to see me off.” She stopped what she was doing and looked up at him, as he moved towards the desk.

“You think at the moment that my requesting your move is a bad thing, but I think you will thank me eventually.” As he spoke he pulled out the chair, and sat down. “Sometimes the things that look the most desperate are usually blessings in disguise.” He laughed lightly. “Would you change anything that happened in Devras?”

Angelina looked at him silently for a moment then shook her head. “No, I wouldn’t change anything.” A smile broke upon her lips. “And I’m sure Debbie did a better job at being me than I could have.”

“Something good will happen.” Val Stratton grinned. “You always land on your feet, Angelina.”

* * * * *

Angelina’s Apartment, Erebus, Tartarus

Kicking the front door shut with her foot, Angelina made her way inside, struggling with the two bags of shopping she carried. Finally making it through to the kitchen, she placed the bags on the counter, and walked into the lounge. As she entered, she picked up the remote from the chair, and flicked on the news, half listening for any stories of interest, as she kicked off her shoes.

Walking over to the phone, she checked the answering machine for messages, growing disheartened as none of the voices turned out to be anyone she particularly wanted to speak to. She ran her hand through her hair, trying to brush her cares away, as she made her way back into the kitchen, heading for the fridge, where she knew half a bottle of wine waited. Grabbing it and a glass, she strolled slowly back towards the couch, her thoughts in a land far away, with a man she had hoped had left a message.

She fell back onto the couch, and curled her legs under herself, as she popped open the wine and poured a large glass full. Placing the bottle on the floor, she stretched her legs out along the length of the chair, and rested her head on the arm, as she took a long, slow sip, feeling the golden liquid begin to ease her body within moments.

Finishing the glass to the halfway mark, she placed the glass beside the bottle, and turned over until she was lying on her stomach. Reaching over, she picked up the handset from the coffee table, and dialled the number she had received in Devras, hoping that Ithun would be there to take the call, suddenly needing reassurance that she had not imagined the magical night.

* * * * *

Making her way slowly down the steps, Angelina finally put her foot down on solid ground, happy and a little apprehensive. Behind her several members of staff, including her secretary stopped at the foot of the stairs and waited. Getting her first look at Tarasovka, she let out a little sigh, as her smile grew becoming more natural as she looked at the greeting party, her eyes lingering on one of those present, as a night full of memories flooded her thoughts.

Capital City of Vigvar, Federal Sisgardian Fiefdoms.

He smiled and nodded slightly as his eyes met hers, but did not move a muscle, even if the desire to simply rush off and whirl her around was overwhelming. He waited, looking calm to an outside observer, for her to walk down to the tarmac and for the horde of civvie dippies to rush off to greet her. One of them, an aged man in the uniform of a Principal Councilor (yes, diplomats from the Foreign Ministry had ceremonial uniforms the wearing of which became obligatory under the Ruling Council), bowed slightly to the young woman as he greeted her.

“Welcome to the Federation, Honourable Ambassador. This is a grand day for both our nations for your presence here symbolizes the first step in securing profitable long term relations between the Federation and the Empire.”

Just as he spoke, Ithun came forward with a look of menacing superiority on his face and hushed down the diplomat who was clearly off into a Tolstoiesque monologue. “Thank you, Principal Councilor. The Secretariat for Foreign Relations will take care of everything.” The aged man sighed and shook his head silently, bowing again to Angelina and making a step back. Ithun gleamed a smile at her as he himself bowed slightly to her.

“Welcome to Vigvar, Your Ambassadorshipness!” He could swear he felt the MFA folks freeze with horror at the blatant breach of diplomatic protocols. “If you would be so kind as to follow me to the transportation, I would show you to your place of assignment for the next few years.”

Letting her eyes flick to Ithun as the man spoke to her, a smile playing on her lips, Angelina listened with interest as he spouted his greeting. “Thank you...,” she barely got the words out before she saw the only man she really knew in Tarasovka stepped forward and took over the proceedings. She did not fail to miss the look on the other man’s face, as Ithun spoke. The smile that she gave him lit up her face; his presence making her feel more at home than she thought she would be. “Lieutenant Khat, it is most kind of you to greet me into your wonderful nation.”
She bowed her head slightly, her eyes sparkly with humour as she tried to remain as professional as possible, when she wanted nothing more than to ask him how he was and greet him properly, wrapping her arms around him. “I am ready to begin when you are.”

He nodded as he took a step aside, motioning towards the dark silhouettes of vehicles waiting for their passengers. “If you would be so kind as to follow me, My Lady. Your staff, as well as your stuff, will also be taken care of and delivered safely.” He smiled as he led the way to a civilian hoverdyne designed to serve as a limousine equivalent. Nodding her head, Angelina turned briefly and spoke to her staff, one of whom answered her briefly, before stepping back from the party, ready to return to the plane with news of the plans. Looking back at Ithun, she stepped up beside him as they made their way over to the vehicles, her eyes every now and then flicking over her surroundings.

“I think I’m going to like it here.” She turned her head, and smiled up at him, her voice low enough for only him to hear, but not enough to be considered whispering. “I hope I get the chance to explore my home.” A little grin spread over her lips, her eyes twinkling. “If I can find a good guide, of course.” Ithun only grinned as they approached the limousine. “I believe a guide could be arranged for. Now, My Lady, you will first be taken to the Embassy building to oversee it. Afterwards you will have an audience with one of the Ruling Councilors, don’t know which. You will hand them your accreditation paper issued to you by your leaders and you will be in turn issued with an accreditation by the Federal authorities, granting you and your staff diplomatic immunity and other funny stuff.”

He opened one of the doors and invited the woman into the vehicle, the interior of which was crafted finely with leather and boasted a rather rich inventory of various things dedicated to making one’s trip less boring. He looked into the skies as various other aircraft flew over the airspace port complex landing in various sectors and followed his company inside. And just as the door closed and the vehicle swiftly took off, lead by two police hoverbikes, Ithun immediately closed the window between the passenger saloon and the driver cockpit, grabbed Angelina, brought her against him and kissed her impatiently and passionately on the lips, her arms wrapping around him, her own lips pressing to his, the months of separation disappearing in a single moment. When their lips parted, she looked at him, breathing in deeply as she caught her breath. “Now that is a much better greeting, I really feel like I’m home.” She ran her fingers over his cheek and over his jaw. “It’s so good to see you again.”

He smiled as he kissed her forehead and stroked her hair. “I missed you so much. I even stopped seducing pretty female secretaries and assistants.” He grinned wickedly as he grabbed her chin, shaking it gently. “What have you done to me, witch?” He asked as they both erupted into a laughter, Angelina’s voice melodic in her happiness. “Let’s just say I weaved a spell on you, and now you are mine to do with as I please.” She let her hand move down his chest, falling softly near his hand, which she took gently in her own. “That flight felt like it took a lifetime.” She tightened her fingers around his, and lifted his hand to her lips, placing a tender kiss on his knuckles.

He brought his hand back and grinned as he whispered quietly to her. “Let us not get too carried away for now. I still have to show you to your residence, a nice manor in the Old City half an hour or so walk from your new working place.” He winked as he gave a glance outside. By this time their limousine already exited the North Vigvar Plateau and was now riding on the Bridge of Swords. Ithun leaned closer to the windows and motioned Angelina at the marvel of architecture and engineering. Indeed, the bridge was tremendous not only in length, but also in size. It featured several floors and three lanes for each direction, including special ‘reserve’ lanes in the center and passage ways between the different floors. And all this at a kilometer altitude above the water deep below in the Vigvar Gulf.

“This here is the famous Bridge of Swords, rebuilt several times over. The first bridge was built centuries ago but was destroyed in one of the numerous civil wars. An other one was destroyed due to natural hazards. This here was built fifty years ago and renovated a dozen years ago.” He said as he gave a glance at Angelina. “This built connects the two Vigvar plateaus, the South and the, obviously, North ones. The Capital City of Vigvar itself, or the Old City as we call it, is situated on a plateau a kilometer above sea level, so you might need some time to get accustomed to the local climate and the difference in oxygen levels.”

Looking out at the sights that passed by the window, Angelina listened as Ithun spoke, not sure whether she was enjoying the topic he was speaking of, or just the fact that she could hear his voice again. “A little light headedness never hurt anyone, and I’m sure I’ll get used to it soon enough. Although I’m afraid you and your fellow countrymen will have to put up with a rather strange Tartarian Ambassador until I do.”

She watched as they moved over the bridge, then looked around at Ithun and smiled. “Please tell me that my new apartment has a bath?” She stretched slightly in the seat, trying to bring some life into her slowly tiring body. “And will I have time to make myself look decent before the exchanging of papers?”

“Oh, your residence, Your Ambassadorshipness, has more than a bath.” He grinned as they engaged into the twisted streets of the South Vigvar, also known as the Old City, also known as the Capital City of Vigvar. The streets weren’t straight for a simple reason – winds. Indeed, winds battered violently in autumn and winter and so making straight streets would allow the masses of cold air to burst freely through the city.

It did not take them long before they arrived on a rather large square, in the center of which was a small park with flowers, fountains and a giant statue in honour of Grand Duke Alexander Ist. On one side of it were massive gates leading of the Winter Palace outer walls. A road went by the barred walls of the complex that gave a view on gorgeous gardens within the complex. The buildings around the square were built in an old style, reminding a mix of European, Slavic and ‘Something Else’ styles, none of the structures higher than three of four floors. The square itself was ‘decorated’ with two police APC’s and several squads the length of the Palace gates and the walls. Ithun smiled as he motioned at the scene. “I will explain afterwards, but it is rather important.”

As he said that their vehicle stopped next to a building on the opposite of the gates. It was a three storey high manor, surrounded by a small garden and barred walls and even had a little parking. And a police squad outside of the gates. Ithun got out of the car and led the way to Angelina into the interior of the building. The corridors and halls were richly decorated, gorgeous furniture, paintings, tapestries, carpets added to the beauty of the scene. Ithun smiled as he led Angelina through the various rooms and corridors. “This building served as Embassy to the Vortex Corporations, maybe the closest allies my nation ever had. But when we simply became one single nation with them, the need to have an embassy dissipated. And so the building was left vacant…”

“Until today.” She smiled, as her eyes moved around the interior, hardly sure where to look first. Not being that sure of what she had been expecting, she had always been told to expect the unexpected, and had made it a habit not let herself imagine her new home and work place, rather she had decided to take whatever came to her, but this was something that took her breath away.
“I speak for the Empire of Tartarus, and Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Gehenna when I say that Tarasovka has afforded us an honour in allowing us to reside here.” She turned her attention to Ithun’s face as she spoke, a look of wonder on her own. “I hope that we may build similar ties to your nation, like the previous occupants.”

Ithun winked to her as he grinned. “Well, now let us go see your residence. It is not far and we can take the walk on foot. I believe you could finish the visit of the place along with your staff and specially dedicated maintenance tech folks.”

“I know that Mr Mortimer ha our move well in hand.” She smiled as she let her eyes wander once more around her surroundings, before letting her gaze once more rest upon the man before her. “Lead the way, Ithun.” Moving herself to stand beside him, she slipped her arm through his. “As much as I love this place, becoming acquainted with my new home sounds wonderful.”

He laughed as he led her out of the building, giving a slight nod to the driver and to their police escort. They went through the streets of the Old City, roads bordered by manors surrounded by small gardens. The greenery was ever present in the City that resembled one giant park. Here and there the landscape was spoiled by a military or a police APC. At moments, one could spot the towering pillars of the Outer Ring in the distance.

As they walked, Ithun explained the situation to his company. The ongoing security instability explained the high presence of police and military in the streets. There was nothing to worry about in the Old City, he said, but would be better not to venture into the Outer Ring labyrinths without proper escort. And, of course, going to other cities would be quite dangerous for a foreigner considering the White Legion out there…

“Well, I know this is rather boring stuff I am telling you, dear heart, but it is important. But now that the briefing has been finished, tell me, how were all this time? Since return from Devras?”

Angelina tightened her arm against his, bringing herself as close as possibly while still being able to walk comfortably. If his presence was not enough to make her visit worthwhile, she might have begun to wonder whether accepting the post had been a good plan. Letting her mind roll back over the months that separated their last meeting, she thought over the ups and downs that had clouded her days. She did not even want to dwell on the days when she feared being reprimanded only to find herself assigned the plum role of Ambassador. “Oh, I’ve not been doing much. A little worrying; a little packing; a lot of missing you.” She grinned happily, as they walked along outside. “If it was slightly darker, it would be like our first meeting.”

He grinned as he remembered their very first meeting and rubbed her side gently. “Yes. Unfortunately, there is no music here lately. But well, you are here, that is all that matters.” He leaned in to kiss her head, taking a breath of the sweet perfume of her hair. “I believe you have the entire Secretariat that would like to thank you.” He grinned. “I am not the same careless Casanova I was before.”

He sighed as they finally approached a manor behind high stone walls. By the gates stood a policeman in combat outfit that saluted them as they made their way through the gates and into a courtyard filled with trees and flowers. The building itself consisted of two floors and was built in a typical 18th century style (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Namellar/palmse.jpg).

“This manor is owned by the Dukes Orlov and since I have been acquainted with them for some time now… Don’t ask how.” He grinned as he winked to her. “I have convinced them to rent it to, well, your government for a symbolic price for the next ten years. And this is where you will be living.”

“I hope you aren’t too much changed.” She laughed lightly, the sound dying on her lips as she looked at the building in front of her, her mouth drying suddenly, before she burst into another fit of laughter. “Oh, that is mean, leading me on like that.” She looked into his face waiting for him to join in with her mirth. “You are serious?” Looking back at the building, she stood open mouthed as she thought back to her own apartment in Tartarus.

He brought her close to himself as he covered her open mouth with a kiss, leaning back for a moment to wink to her. “Watch out, a fly might get in there. And what did you expect? We Taraskovyans are known for our hospitality!” He erupted into laughter as he led her towards her new living place, the two vanishing inside of the manor…

Ms Ormond’s Residence, 7 Orlov Street, Capital City of Vigvar.

With her arm lying lightly over his chest, her head resting on his shoulder, and her body nestling against his, Angelina lay naked on the bed with Ithun, covered only by a single sheet, following the kind of reunion that she had been dreaming off since she said goodbye to him in Devras. Sleeping peacefully, a mix of her travel and the pleasure she had just experienced, she lost herself in her dreams, replaying the last few hours over and over.

Slowly she felt herself coming towards consciousness, as she blinked herself awake. She moved her fingers, tenderly stroking his skin beneath her touch. She murmured softly, as she brushed away the remnants of her sleep, and tilted her head slightly, so she could look at his face, moving slightly to press her lips lightly against his cheek. She could not recall a time when she had felt more content, or felt that she had found someone she wanted to spend time with, maybe even a lifetime. She smiled up at him as she met his eyes. “Is that a proper Taraskovyan welcome?” She moved her hand up his chest, running her finger along the base of his neck.

He blinked sleepily as he opened his eyes to meet hers, a smile drawing on his lips. “I guess not, but I do believe it would be a good idea to make it a tradition around here.” He replied to her question as he put his put his hand above hers on his chest and stroke her fingers gently, bringing it up to his lips and kissing it while pulling her closer to him and switching from her fingers to her lips.

He kissed her not with flaming passion, but gently, kindly, something he could not remember doing ever before to other women. He stroked her hair and caressed her back, until he finally broke the kiss, brushing her lips with his fingers and kissing her forehead. “Never thought I’d miss someone like I missed you, Lina…” He said in a mysterious tone that included some share of… sadness in his eyes as he smiled at her.

“I missed you too.” She moved her body, so that she was almost lying on top of him, her arms resting on his chest, as she looked down into his face. She kissed his lips briefly, before the look in his eyes caught her attention. “What’s the matter?” She frowned slightly, her brow creasing with concern.

“Nothing that is of much concern right now.” He said as his betrayed his words. Clearly, he was being torn between two opposites. To speak or not to speak, such is the question! He took a deep sigh, feeling the warmth of her body, repeating yet again. “Nothing that is of concern…”

The frown remained for a moment, before she swept it away, not wanting to dwell on the situation when it was clear he did not wish to talk about it right now. She was sure that once he was ready to speak to her of his troubles he would, until then she would not push him into revealing all to her. “I think I could get used to this being a tradition.” She nestled against him, wrapping her arms around him, changing the conversation back to the previous one.

Ithun chuckled as he gave her yet another kiss on the lips. “You will see we are a very tradition loving folk. And one with hospitality being part of the legal system too.” He winked to her as he ruffled her gorgeous hair a bit, asking: “So, how does it feel to be an Ambassador?”

Angelina laughed along with him. “I’ll let you know once it really sinks in.” She sighs contentedly, as she moved her body against him, once again nestling in his arms, her head back on his shoulder. “This is the life. Lying in bed, in the middle of the day, wrapped in the embrace of someone I love.” She grinned. “Who needs a title with all that?”

“Well…” He said pensively. Going off into declarations of love like that was really not his style, but he knew he could not just skip her phrase simply like that. He kissed her forehead as he looked up at his watch, his eyes becoming round as two soup bowls. “Maybe you need no titles, but you do need your accreditation. And your audience is in a bit more than an hour.”

She smiled, as she sighed slightly. “I don’t want to keep the Council waiting on my first day.” She sat up slowly, as she watched him lying on the bed, suddenly wondering whether it was too soon to be admitting her feelings for him. “An hour? That’s hardly time to get showered and dressed, let alone getting there.”

Ithun shook his head as he sat up in the bed, kissing her on the lips gently. “You let me organize and go take a shower. I believe there is a bathroom attached to every bedroom in here.” He looked around the room, pensively. “Yes, and when you come out, I’ll have a surprise for you.” He grinned as he gave her a joyful wink.

“A surprise? Sounds interesting.” She pressed her lips to his, then slid off the bed heading in the direction of the door she assumed had to be the bathroom. As she reached the door, she turned and faced him. “Thank you for everything.” She lowered her eyes and smiled. “You’ve really made my arrival special.” Raising her gaze once more to touch his, she turned before he could answer and disappeared into the bathroom, knowing that she really did not have the time to get all sentimental and gushy, and feeling more than a little sure that he was not really in the mood to hear it. Within minutes, the sound of water could be heard coming from within.

He smiled as he shook his head and looked around the room looking for his trousers. Hopefully, they were there, hanging from the top of a shelf. He brought them down and searched in the pockets, extracting some little device. “Lath?” He said in Taraskath after pressing some buttons and putting the device against his head like a phone. “Is everything ready? Good, I want you here in five minutes with the cargo. Of course, bring a bird. Over and out.”

He stretched slightly as he put on his underwear, his uniform not being in the correct state to be put on the upcoming event. But, he has made preparations just in case of such pleasant circumstances and it was not long before he could hear the engines of a small VTOL aircraft landing in the street outside of the manor, several men exiting it and going into the manor.

Lath and his men immediately went up to the bedroom, picking up the clothes they found on their way, carrying several packages. Ithun saluted them, exchanged several brief phrases, giving a quick glance at the door of the bathroom and allowed the men to leave, which they did. Ithun unwrapped one of the packages, extracting a parade uniform in perfect condition, which he immediately put on. He grinned at the other package as he waited for her to come out from the shower.

Fifteen minutes after she entered the bathroom, Angelina stepped out, her body covered by a white fluffy towel, a similar one curled up around her hair. She was surprised when she emerged to see Ithun already dressed and ready. “I must have been longer than I expected.” She caught sight of the clock, and grinned, putting his organisational skills down to his military background.

As she moved further into the room, her eyes fell upon a set of boxes lying on the bed. She flicked her gaze to his questioningly. “Is this the surprise?” A smile spread over her face, her eyes widened with excitement. “You shouldn’t have.” As she spoke she carefully took the lid off the first box then stood speechless as she looked at the contents.

After a couple of minutes, she lifted the garment from its wrapping, and watched as the dress unfolded itself showing off its full elegance. Long and black, backless with a halter neck, the material soft, a dress that she would have picked for herself. She smiled as she held it up against her body, flicking the slightly flared skirt with her hand. “It’s beautiful.” She laid it carefully along the length of the bed, as she moved on to the next box, blushing slightly as she saw that it contained underwear.

She left that where it was as she turned her attention to the next box, this one the smallest of the set. Taking off the lid, she once again fell silent, as she looked at the perfectly matched set of jewellery that rested on its velvety cushion. “Ithun, I don’t know what to say.” She looked up at him and smiled, as she made her way to where he was standing. “It’s all too much.” She felt a lump growing in her throat. “Thank you.” Pressing her lips to his, she kissed him tenderly. “Can you help me with them?” Her eyes sparkled, as she presented the box to him.

He smiled and nodded as he took out a chain of white gold with a medallion crafted with diamonds and deep blue sapphires. “They match your eyes perfectly.” He said as he put the chain around her neck, closing it and rubbing her shoulders slightly and smiling again. He helped her with the rest of the set, the stones shading her eyes and the metal matching her hair. He kissed her on the lips again as he unwrapped the towels, tossing them away and making a step back to admire her forms. “Too bad you cannot go like this. Truly, you need nothing else.” He sighed and shook his head with regret.

Laughing lightly, Angelina moved towards the bed. “I do not think that the Council would be too impressed if I turned up wearing only diamonds.” She carefully pulled on the underwear, feeling the coolness of the material against her skin, warm from the shower. “What exactly is this ceremony going to entail? I really did not think it would be such a glamorous affair.” As she spoke, she once again picked the dress off of the bed, and clothed herself in it, feeling the softness of the material brush against her skin, clinging to her form. Once the garment was in place, she turned back to Ithun. “How do I look?”

“You look perfect, how else can it be? This dress fits you marvellously.” He grinned as he made a mental notice to pay Lath, his adjutant, a bottle of the best vodka there was. After all, even if Ithun had good taste, he knew nothing in female garments. But then again, how did Lath come to be such an expert in these fields in the first place? Ithun shook his head and smiled. “I believe you should get your hair ready, dear heart. We still have the time.”

“I think someone is afraid we are going to be late.” She laughed lightly as she made her way over to the bathroom door. “It’s fashionable not to arrive on time, you know?” Without waiting for him to answer, she disappeared through the door, this time leaving it open so that she could continue to speak to him, although most of her words were lost under the sound of the hairdryer.

Some ten minutes later, following a lot of moaning, as her hair decided to make a fight out of it, Angelina emerged with her hair piled loosely on the top of her head, with tendrils curling around her face, softening the look. “You don’t have to look so worried. I’m almost ready.” She headed back to the bed, and opened the last box, quickly slipping the shoes on her stockinged feet.

Gripping the clutch bag that finished off the outfit, Angelina stood before Ithun transformed. “I hope I do you justice.” She moved over to him, suddenly noticing his own attire. “You look very tasty.” Pressing her lips to his, she kissed him tenderly. “Do we really need to go?” She winked at him teasingly.

“I wish we didn’t have to, but I might lose my job if we do not attend. And same goes for you, young girl.” He answered, grinning, as his hand caressed the girl’s cheek. “And it would be sad to see you go so soon.”

With that, he took her arm and led her out of the manor, explaining the procedures as they went. In fact, everything was simple. “You see, when the Ruling Council seized power, they abolished pretty much everything. They even came to abolishing the Grand Ducal diplomatic protocols. But then, suddenly, all of the members of the Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs refused to compile new protocols.”

He laughed slightly as he sighed and shook his head. “And so we still abide by the Grand Ducal laws at least in diplomacy. And Grand Ducal protocols insist on the fact that guests must be treated with a lot of attention, caring and no harm must come to them. The accreditation of Ambassadors usually happened in presence of several foreign dignitaries, not just one as will be in your case. A dinner would be organized by the Grand Duke and then maybe some gala or a ball or what not. As I have said – we like to throw in parties, but, unfortunately, you will not have the right to a ball in your honour. The Council is submerged by various dealings. But I did, however, reserve a table at the best restaurant in the Old City, if the Lady accepts to bestow me with the honour of a dinner in her company, of course.”

“Dinner sounds perfect.” She smiled as she tightened her arm against his. “Balls are so large and take up so much time.” A faint blush appeared on her cheeks, as she recalled the last ball she attended, or did not attend, as the case was. “I thought you might remember that I prefer dinner with you over big gatherings.”

He only smiled and nodded to her, as sweet memories of months ago filled his mind. They got into the limousine waiting for them along with a police escort. And as the two vanished inside, the convoy took off towards its next destination – the Palace of the Ruling Council.

Capital City of Vigvar, Federal Sisgardian Fiefdoms.

Ithun looked out of the window onto the streets and buildings that passed outisde, nodding approvingly as he turned to look at Angelina. “We will arrive soon, Lina. Now don’t worry, it is nothing overly complicated nor is there a particularly harsh procedure to observe. I will be serving as your Guide and will be the one who introduces you to the whatever Councilor that will meet you. Then the Councilor accepts to see you, you come in and hand him that Entrustment Letter written by your Empress to the Federal authorities. He will accept it and hand you out an Accreditation Letter signed by his hand. Normally, the other two signatures are already down on paper so you’ll have the three in no time. After that maybe he will make some fancy speech or will want to ask some questions. Or he might just as well let you go. Do not think that the fact that he releases you quickly is an insult or a sign of disdain to you or to your nation, it is just that… well…” He frowned and sighed. “The Taraskovyan diplomatic customs have a very, very long and complicated history and are full of traditions that the Ruling Councilors cannot always observe.”

Angelina nodded briefly, before casting Ithun a smile. “I have been around a few diplomats in my time, so you have no need to worry about me being insulted.” She reached over and took his hand on hers. “I’m pleased that you are going to be with me, not that I’m nervous…well, perhaps a little…” She let out a soft giggle. “But it’s nice to have a familiar face around.” He rubbed her fingers gently, smiling. “I couldn’t just leave you all by yourself in unknown territory.” He leaned forward to kiss the girl, murmuring: “As the Russians say: ‘We never abandon ours on the battlefield!’” “Battlefield? Now I am getting worried.” She laughed, as she rested back in the seat, her hand still holding his. “To be honest, I’m looking forward to getting the official business behind us, so that you can tell me everything you’ve been doing since I last saw you.” As they travelled in the car, she let her gaze flick past him to the scenery outside the window, then returned her attention to him. “Be patient, young girl, and you shall be rewarded.” Ithun grinned as he gave her a wink.

At this moment their limousine began to slow down until it came to a halt, Ithun coming out, while the driver also got out to open the door to Angelina. They now were in front of what appeared to be a palace built in an ancient style. The building was not overly high, but was made of black stone, with spires rising to the sky in various points. The car itself was parked in a stone courtyard that also housed several other cars as well as two military APCs. This ‘parking’ was circled by the building on three sides, the emptiness of the fourth one opening the view on the street. Ithun took Angelina’s arm and led her through giant wooden doors and into the entry hall. “This is the Kashtarkhir Palace, where the High Council used to meet. Now it is where the Ruling Council and the various Secretariats, including the one I’m in, have settled.”

Upon their entry into the Palace they were joined by two soldiers in parade uniforms, who were immediately halted by a single motion of Ithun’s hand. “We will make do with no honourary escort.” He grinned as he glanced at Angelina as he led her up the stairs of the entry hall and into a corridor. The interior of the palace was far from being ‘luxurious’, the only decorations being the bas-reliefs and the tapestries, both depicting various scenes from the history of Tarasovka. Angelina let her eyes wander over her surroundings, letting them linger on different points of interest for as long as she could before they were passed by and replaced with new objects. “Reminds me of home.” She grinned, as she turned back to her companion. “Except this place is slightly bigger than my old apartment.” She knew was not the time for joking, but she could not help herself. He only grinned in response and shook his head. “Too bad you cannot see the Winter Palace…” The officer sighed, pensively, remaining silent for a minute. “But well, maybe one day…” The Lieutenant grinned as he stopped in front of two big doors by the end of the corridor, with two honour guards in black armor, cloaks and helms by them. Ithun nodded to the guards who opened the doors, allowing the officer to make several steps into the hall on the other side and, making a military salute, to speak out loud.

“Ms. Ormond, Ambassador of the Empire of Tartarus to the Taraskovyan Federation, requests audience with the Taraskovyan leadership.”

And after that, the voice of an other man answered: “Let the Ambassador come!” Casting a brief look at Ithun, she smiled, suddenly feeling a little nervous. “Wish me luck,” she mouthed to him, before turning her attention on the room ahead. She stepped through the door, her smile plastered on her face. As she moved inside, the guards turned and drew their swords. Angelina felt a momentary panic rush through her, before she realised the reason for their doing so. The sound of metal touching metal filled her with a sense of relief, as she made her way through the arch that had been made. Without missing a step or revealing her nerves, she walked towards the man, who she instantly recognised as Ruling Councilor Puchinov. Her footsteps echoed in the large room, until she reached the end of her journey. As she stopped, she bowed her head slightly out of respect, before raising her eyes until they met his, a small smile on her face.

The Ruling Councilor, standing by a small table with two armchairs beside it, made a bow in return and then frowned, faking a mask of mistrust on his face: “So this young lady claims to be the Envoy of Empress Gehenna of Tartarus herself? Do you have any proof to back your claims? Or do I call in the guard?” And just as he said that, the guards by the door turned to face the hall, standing side by side in the doorway, blocking it. While all this was happening, Ithun quietly made his way to place himself behind the Ruling Councilor, facing Angelina. He smiled and nodded to her reassuringly, indicating that all this was just a ‘play’. Flicking her eyes between the Councilor and Ithun, Angelina took a breath before speaking. “I come on behalf of Her Imperial Majesty, Gehenna of Tartarus and bear with me an Entrustment Letter, signed and sealed by her.” She presented the document to Puchinov, the smile fading slightly from her lips.

Puchinov accepted the document, read it quickly through and then nodded, just as a young man in an adjutants uniform appeared in the hall with a silver tray. Puchinov lay the Entrustment Letter down on the tray and took a thin folder of silver colour, with a black sword on it. The Ruling Council invited the young woman to sit down by the table, doing the same once the Ambassador was seated as the adjutant made his way out. He took out a pen, opened the folder, which contained a letter, and put his signature at the bottom. With that, he closed the folder and put it on Angelina’s side of the table. And once that done, he looked up at her, with a smile on his face, the look of mistrust erased from his features. “So, Ms. Ormond, I see you came with a minimal escort. Which is good, I hate it when there are a lot of secretaries running forth and from.”

He raised his hand and a door by the side opened, an other adjutant entering, this time with a platter on which rested a bottle of red wine and two glasses. The young man put the bottle down on the table, poured wine into the glasses for the two dignitaries, and went out of the hall. Puchinov raised his glass: “To a new start between the Federation and the Empire! Vivat!” Angelina, who missed nothing of the proceedings and observed the ceremony carefully, smiled as the Councilor became less formal, accepting a glass of wine. “To a new start. One that goes from strength to strength. Vivat!” She lifted the wine to her lips and took a small sip, before lowering the glass and cradling it in her hand, allowing herself a moment to survey those around her.

Ithun smiled broadly as he saw Angelina cheer in the good old Taraskovyan military fashion and nodded approvingly just as the Ruling Councilor put his glass back on the table and smiled at the lady. “So, Ms. Ormond, how was your first day in the Federation?” Flicking her eyes to Ithun before answering, the girl could feel a slight blush rising on her cheeks. “My first day has been most interesting, and very…enjoyable.” She lowered her eyes for a moment, and smiled, before returning her gaze to the Councilor’s. “It is an honour to be in your fine nation, Councilor Puchinov.”

“And it is an honour for us to receive such fine guests from such a fine nation as yours, Ambassador Ormond. I hope your stay in here will bear positive results. And I hope the same from our Ambassador in Tartarus, of course.” He paused for a moment, pondering. “As always, Ambassador Ormond, we stand ready to cooperate with you should you request any assistance in exercising or expanding your activities.” “You are most generous, Councilor Puchinov.” She could feel her smile growing as she began to truly relax. “I would also like to thank you for sending Lieutenant Khat to assist in my arrival. He has been the perfect guide.” Taking another sip of her wine, she finished by placing it back on the table.

Puchinov erupted into laughter at the mention of Lieutenant Khat, shaking his head. “Oh, this officer is a legend on its own, Ambassador Ormond.” He chuckled as he looked back at the young woman, smiling. “Well, Ambassador, should you require anything, the Federal authorities are ready to assist. And in the meanwhile, unless you have any questions, I believe I will let you go and enjoy the Old City in the evening.” Bowing her head slightly again, Angelina laughed lightly along. “Thank you for your hospitality, Councilor Puchinov.” The laughter cease and was immediately replaced by another smile. “I am sure that I shall enjoy the Old City.” She shoot Ithun a quick look, before returning her gaze to Puchinov, who stood up and nodded. “Well then, Ambassador, I wish you to have a pleasant evening. On this, I must abandon your company to government duties.” He bowed and directed himself out of the hall, quickly vanishing behind one of the side doors. Ithun frowned and shook his head. “He didn’t even think of accompanying the Lady to the exit.” He said, smiling, as he looked at Angelina.

“So, Lina, how do you like our customs?” “Your customs seem…like customs.” She replied, returning his smile. “They are what make a nation. Although you could have warned me he was going to be so…unfriendly.” She laughed lightly. “I would hate to think what would have happened if I had forgotten to pick up the letter before leaving.” As if sparking a thought, she reached over and took the documentation the Councilor had signed from the table. Ithun sighed as he took Angelina’s arm and led her out of the palace. “Sorry, dear, I thought that you did receive some briefing before being sent off here. Oh well, guess that with all the mess my nation is in. Now, the official part is ready and the Lady promised me a dinner. And so off we go.” He said as he smiled and led the young woman out of the building and back into their car, the limousine setting off, this time without the police escort.

The sun was setting above Vigvar, painting the skies in orange and red. Streets began to fill with people walking home from work; families began slowly filling the parks as young lovers began appearing the streets, heading for some night club or what not. Everything was peaceful and calm in the Capital City.

The driver took another turn and the limousine, carrying the Tartarian Ambassador and a Taraskovyan Secretary for Foreign Relations, rode through some old gates into a park. Leaving the fence behind, the craft took the main road to finally arrive by a small building, decorated in old fashion.

Ithun got out of the car, the driver opened the door to Angelina. The Taraskovyan Lieutenant looked around and smiled. “And here we are, the Pearl of Vigvar, one of the best restaurants around here.” He took her arm and led her into the interior, informing a waiter of their arrival and getting guided to their table.

The table was outside of the building, on a balcony overlooking the Vigvar Gulf. Somewhere, hundreds of meters below, water could be heard. Far away were the cliffs of the Northern Plateau and the lights of Northern Vigvar glimmering in the growing darkness. The balcony itself was quite large and wide, with the tables being located closer to the building, the edge of the balcony being free for people to come and admire the splendid view.

Ithun helped Angelina get seated and only then took his own seat, nodding to the waiters that put menus on the table and then walked away. As she settled and let her gaze roam over the scenery, Ithun made himself comfortable. Turning back to him, she gave him a smile. “This looks perfect.” She raised her eyes to the sky, once more admiring the view, before again catching his gaze with hers. “Is there anything on the menu you recommend trying?” She turned her attention to the list of food on offer. “It all looks so appetising; this could be a hard decision.”

Ithun grinned as he looked through the menu. “Well, you could try some of their Russian food. I wouldn’t suggest Taraskath traditional food for it is rather… let us say… particular.” He pondered for a moment. “If you want a soup, I’d suggest trying out their shchi. It is sort of a cabbage soup with potatoes, meat and other vegetables. Don’t ask exactly what’s in there, I know how to survive out in the wild, but I wouldn’t know how to use an oven. Or you could try a kiev cutlet, made of chicken. Or I would suggest the dranniki, sort of potato pancakes, though a tad fatter and smaller. Or simply go in for some Russian pancakes with honey.”

Closing the menu, Angelina placed it down on the table and looked at Ithun. “I’m going to have whatever you have.” She laughed lightly. “That way I don’t have to try and choose.” Absentmindedly, she moved the fork a fraction, as if straightening it. “This has been a very pleasant day…if a long one.” She laughed again. “I must remember to put a ‘do not disturb’ sign on my door for the morning.”

Ithun chuckled and shook his head. “I am pleased that you are pleased, dear heart… Now… I was just about to take some kshedur. But since I very much doubt you would like it, I will go in for some dranniki. Have you ever tasted vodka?”
Angelina nodded, and blushed slightly. “When I was a little younger, although I think that is a topic for another time.” She laughed again, as she recalled the state her and some friends had got in following a binge of vodka during her university days, she recalled the hangover the next morning even more. “Vodka will be fine.”

“Then some vodka and I will also take some Taraskovyan wine. And I guess we will order something else if we want it.” He put his menu down and clicked his fingers in the air, calling for a waiter, but receiving a waitress instead. The girl took the orders and darted off, soon to reappear with a pitcher of water and two glasses, some bread, spices, immediately vanishing after having put everything down.

Ithun shook his head and looked up at Angelina, grinning. “So you have tasted vodka, hmmm? How was your first impression of this most noble and enjoyable drink?”

“It certainly has a kick.” She grinned slightly. “I have to admit, most of my memory concerning it was lost in a blur. But then, most of the university parties were lost in a very similar way.” She shook her head at herself at the memory. “Of course, I have become much more responsible since then; it might please you to know.” She picked up a piece of bread and broke a piece off.

He shook his head, smiling. “Actually, I guess it would please your superiors to know that you are responsible. But tell me, how was a civilian university? We certainly did not have the right to be drunk where I was.”

Angelina thought back for a moment, as she popped a piece of bread in her mouth, and chewed, a smile on her lips. “I think my parents and professors would have preferred me to attend one of your universities, but it was good fun.” She frowned slightly. “I hope I’m not giving you a bad impression of me, I did knuckle down when I needed to, but all work and no play, as they say, makes Lina a dull girl.”

He shook his head and chuckled. “No, no, no bad impressions at all, I assure you. Well, I wasn’t in a university, properly, but in a military Academy. So the discipline was tight. Did not prevent us to flee from the compound to party out in the city and then present ourselves more or less fresh to the review in the morning.” He chuckled as he thought back to his earlier days. “I was once caught in the female sleeping quarters with a pretty Russian female yunker. Oh, what a scandal that was! I was nearly expelled, but all came out to the best and I simply finished the Academy in the rank of Kornet, instead of Podporuchik. From there, since the Airborne was my specialization, I continued service there, in the Seventy Fourth Division.”

“And there was me worried that I would be making a bad impression.” Angelina took another piece of bread, suddenly realising how hungry she was feeling, it had been a while since she had last eaten. “Caught in the women’s dorm room and graduating a rank down.” She shook her head. “I think my father would have beaten me if I had almost got myself expelled.” She laughed again, displaying that she was only joking.

“Ah, you are accustomed with Taraskovyan military ranks.” He blinked for a second, his eyes shining with a lot of respect towards the woman as he continued. “So you father was a strict man, as I can tell. Mine wasn’t really strict, he let the Army do the disciplinarian part of my education.”

Finishing chewing another piece of bread, Angelina shook her head, at the thought of the image Ithun must have of her father. “I was never beaten, I think I just disappointed him sometimes, but he would never lay a finger on me, he never had to.” She smiled, as she picked up the pitcher and poured herself some water, then indicated his glass. “Would you care for some? My father had the ability to instil fear without having to raise a hand in anger.”

“Your father sounds like a Taraskovyan class Seven and higher officer.” He said just as their meals arrived. Hot dranniki arranged with some cream on the plate, a pitcher of vodka and of wine, as well as appropriate glasses were also delivered. Ithun blinked as he looked back at Angelina, picking up the pitcher of wine. “Euh… I guess we could pass on to wine directly, no?” He poured himself some wine, filled Angelina’s glass and smiled as he raised his glass. “Well, I guess I can only say one thing… To us!”

Picking up her glass, she chinks it gently against Ithun’s. “To us!” She takes a sip before looking over the food in front of them. “Mmm, it looks and smells delightful.” She placed her glass on the table, and picked up her cutlery, turning briefly to the waitress as she finished laying the last item before them. “I think I could eat a horse.” She looked up at him questioningly. “We aren’t eating horse, are we?”

He looked at the potato pancakes and poked one with his fork, listening attentively. “Well, I do not hear any whinnies, so I think that we at least are not eating a horse.”

“That’s good to know.” She looked down at the plate in front of her, and pushed her fork into a piece of food, and brought it up to her mouth. “You know, if this isn’t very nice, I’m going to blame you.” She grinned. “Why do you think I let you choose?” Laughing lightly, she stopped as she placed the first bite of the meal in her mouth and chewed, the smile instantly showing that he was free from blame.

He smiled as he tasted some of the food, enjoying it, as always. He looked up at his company, pondering for a moment and asked. “Tell me, Lina, just how did you come to be in diplomacy in the first place? You finished some specific International Relations oriented university or something else inspired you?”

“My father.” She put down her knife, and took another sip of her wine. “When I was born, he was as an Ambassador, and worked his way up the channels. So, sharing his life as I was growing up kind of made the decision for me. He encouraged me along that path, opened a few doors for me.” She laughed. “I guess you can see why he was disappointed in my behaviour.”

“Well, I believe that he must be rather proud of you now. The first Tartarian Ambassador to a nation known for its rather suspicious attitude to foreigners.” He chuckled and laughed softly. “It is rather a paradox that we are also known for our ancestral warm hospitality.”

Angelina nodded, as she finished yet another mouthful. “I think he is, he gave me a nice congratulation gift on my promotion.” She lowered the fork. “What about you? What made you enter the military?”

He sat back and smiled cunningly, in the way a cat does when its happy. “Well, when I was very little I wanted to become an officer in the Airborne. Tarasovka is nearly completely covered with mountains, so I let you imagine how thrilling jumping with a parachute is.” He chuckled and shook his head.

“At first my parents did not pay any attention to my ‘aspirations’. To the day when, aged eight, I took two umbrellas and jumped off the second floor of our house. As you imagine, one of the umbrellas broke and I did a nice little chute.” He laughed again as he relived the scene in his memories. “After that my parents just put me into an army school and so I went from there.”

“You were lucky they weren’t putting you in hospital.” She looked at him a little concerned, and then smiled. “I hope you haven’t done or are planning on doing anything that foolish again.” Reaching over the table, she presented her hand to him, as she smiled at him happily. “I’m wouldn’t want you to come to any harm, I’ve already grown fond of you.”

He took her hand in his and rubbed her fingers gently. “Do not worry, Lina, just for you I will make sure to remain alive.” He smiled back at her, lingering on her eyes for a moment, before they finally returned to their food. They would spend the evening chattering happily about various subjects, enjoying food and drinks and, at the end, after Ithun resolved all of the administrative and monetary issues, got back into their car and rode after Ithun resolved all of the administrative and monetary issues, got back into their car and rode away.

The car brought Lina to her residence, stopping in front of the entrance. Ithun helped Angelina out of the car and took her in his arms, kissing her gently for a moment. “Well, dear heart, I guess I will say good bye to you now. I will see you soon enough again, I hope.”

Slipping her arms around Ithun, Angelina kissed him tenderly, before looking deep into his eyes. “I hope to see you too.” She looked over her shoulder at the door. “You don’t want to come in for a nightcap…or something?” Her eyes sparkled mischievously.

“I believe not, I have to report to my residence. As you can imagine, the Secretariat is not entirely thrilled with my close ties to a foreign dignitary, so they have made some arrangements. Miloliudov, my boss, is trying to ease the situation, but well… bureaucracy is sometimes slow.” He winked to her, just as the silence of the evening was shattered by sounds of numerous engines.

Before they knew, a number of police and army dropships flew over Angelina’s residence, heading towards the Outer Ring. Ithun looked at them worryingly as he asked the driver of their car something in Russian. The driver replied, with a tone that indicated that whatever was happening he was sick and tired of it. Ithun shook his head and sighed again. “The White Legion is causing trouble in the Outer Ring again. The pillar in which the Officer’s Residence is situated is blockaded by rioters. So I guess I will take your offer after all, if it is still valid, of course.”

“The offer is always welcome.” Taking his hand, Angelina smiled as she led Ithun to the door, stopping on the threshold. “I’m sorry that I’m causing you so many problems. If you think it would help, we could stay away from each other for a while, accidentally ‘run in’ to each other occasionally?” Although she spoke the words she was hoping that he would decline her suggestion.

And so he did, staring at her with big open eyes and shaking his head. “I’d rather quit the Secretariat altogether and enter reserve service instead of staying far from you.” He said as he stroke her hair, a smile on his lips now. “Do not worry, Lina, I have managed to overcome many difficulties. It is not some filthy rats that will make me fail.” He winked to her as he yelled something to the driver, the man nodding and driving off. He followed the car with his gaze for a moment and then turned to kiss Angelina again. “I have nowhere to go now and my fate depends entirely on you.”

Watching the car disappear, Angelina turned to Ithun and grinned. “You are in luck. I am feeling very charitable tonight.” She pressed a brief kiss to his lips, before turning her attention to letting them in the premises. Pushing open the door, she pulled him inside quickly, before kicking the door closed with her foot. Without uttering another word, she walked to the bottom of the stairs and looked back at him. The hallway was lit only by the light from outside, but was bright enough for them to see each other. “So, do you want a drink…or do you want me?”

He walked up to her, slowly, his steps being the only sounds resonating in the silence of the hall. He looked her into the eyes, taking her into his arms and pulling her close to him, his lips mere millimeters away from hers as he whispered passionately. “I think I will take both. I will drink you… slowly… enjoying each sip… down to the last drop…”

Angelina smiled. “I like the sound of that.” Taking hold of his hand lightly, she began to walk up the stairs backwards, her eyes locked to his. Finding this method too slow for her growing desire, she turned and jogged up the stairs, pulling him along behind her, leaving him no doubt as to where they were going.

As the bedroom door closed behind them, they were already in a passionate kiss, fumbling with each other’s clothing.

Offices of the Secretariat for Foreign Relations,
Kashtarkhir Palace
Capital City of Vigvar,
Federal Sisgardian Fiefdoms,
Sisgardia.

Ithun stood silent as the Count Ivan Kumysov, Chief Secretary for Foreign Relations (or the Big Bad Pen Pusher as he was known among other individuals), read the morale to the young officer about duty, honour of the Taraskovyan uniform and other things of various relevance or importance. Lieutenant Khat did not actually listen to the words of his elderly superior that was clearly falling deeper into the riches of morale and lectures and invented new arguments to prove to Ithun that his behaviour is a disgrace to the Secretariat for Foreign Relations, a disgrace to the honour of the Taraskovyan uniform, a disgrace to the… to the… the… eeeh… well, a disgrace!
The pile of aging bones, finally having satisfied his lust for talking, pointed Ithun at the door, mumbling something like ‘You can go away now’. Needless to say that the Poruchik immediately directed himself out of the office, to fall under the not-very-welcoming gaze of High Secretary Miloliudov, Secretary Khat’s direct superior. The General shook his head and motioned to Ithun to follow him to his own office, where the young officer prepared to listen to an other stockpile of moralizing speeches about being a disgrace to whatever one would come up with.

Instead, he was, to his own surprise, allowed to get seated. Vladimir looked at his aide and sighed, shaking his head. He took out a file that bared the emblem of the Kaskad and handed it over to Ithun. The young man opened it, his gaze falling on a high resolution and the best of qualities colour photograph of him and Angelina kissing in front of her house. His blood ran to his head as he shivered with rage, gazing up at Vladimir, hissing menacingly.

“Who ordered the surveillance?”

“Guess?”

“Kumysov?”

The General nodded as he sat back in his arms chair, taking out a smoking pipe, which he lit up, spreading fumes through the room. Ithun skipped through the photographs, none of them depicting anything happening inside of the mansion (a pity for the Kaskad spies, truly…), and passed on to a rather short text expressing Kaskad’s opinion on ‘Leib-Count Ithun Khat, Poruchik of the Airborne and Secretary for Foreign Relations’. …due to facts outlined above, we esteem that this element is potentially liable to the national security of the Federation… …element known for his irresponsible behaviour and obsession with representatives of opposite sex… …we deem that the element might set his priorities wrongly and abandon his duties to get carried away with a member of opposite sex… He sighed and shook his head as his eyes jumped from one sentence to the other, covering the document quickly, but efficiently. So far, nothing that he did not expect. Element known for past traumatisms of great importance, the fact of being the sole survivor of an entire division might cause megalomaniac behaviour. We greatly advise the Secretariat for Foreign Relations to restrict the element’s access to… He did not finish reading the document, tossing it against a wall and breathing deeply, trying to keep calm. Fighting and dying for his Motherland, serve with faith and honour, defend freedom of his people, to be rewarded by this? Miloliudov shook his head.

“Do not worry, I will take care of the formalities with the Kaskad.”

“And what about Kumysov?”

“He is a pawn. I do not know whose, but he has been placed here specifically to hinder our foreign diplomacy.”

“Do you think it is safe to say such things here?” – Ithun asked as his eyes wandered around the room, as if searching for some listening devices or cameras. Of course, if there were any he would not spot them, but still his eyes wanted to reassure themselves.

“Of course, I have made arrangements…”

“Arrangements?”

“I have friends, Ithun.” – the General leaned forward and whispered – “Same friends as you had once.”

The Lieutenant smiled and shook his head. His thoughts were not with his past, but with his future. And the most important issue on the agenda was the fact that the Kaskad was on his tail, somebody for Gods know what reasons was tracking him down, wanting to keep him away from Lina… Lina…

“As of Miss Ormond, you can continue meeting her. Just try to keep your meetings to one per every couple of days.”

“But… ?”

“I have told the goons from the Kaskad that you are my close informant with Ambassador Ormond.”

“And they believed you?”

“I think not, but not every single person in the Kaskad is rotten scum. There are still good souls in there… Oh, and in case you were thinking of resignation from your post… you can forget the idea. I will not sign any such papers. I need you here, for you are one of the few capable people in this dump.”

Ithun thought his chief’s words over and then grinned wickedly, looking into the direction of the Kaskad report on the floor.

“If these bastards think they can break me, they will see what a Taraskovyan parachutist is capable of!”

“Yes, that is the spirit! Just remember to write me a couple lines about what the Tartarian Ambassador is supposedly up to, to keep up with the informant legend.”

“Yes, Sir.”

“You may return to your duties, Poruchik.”

Ithun stood up, saluted joyfully and went out of the office, heading for his own one, surely already filled with some bureaucratic mess to resolve.

It was just an other day in the Federation…

Tartarian Embassy, Capital City of Vigvar

Angelina walked through the door, carrying her briefcase in one hand, and a newspaper in the other, her eyes fixed to one of the stories that had caught her attention. The security people on duty gave a cheerful good morning, bringing her focus to the Embassy. She smiled, returning their greeting, as she continued on through to her office. As she walked she took in the hustle and bustle as the people continued to add the finishing touches to their move in, a lot having be carried out before her arrival in the nation.

As she neared her office, she nearly bumped into Keith Mortimer coming out of one of the side rooms. “Good morning, Keith.” She looked around her. “Things seem to be coming along well.”

Keith looked at Angelina and smiled. “Someone is cheerful, this morning.” He winked at her playfully, before returning to business. “We’ve practically finished setting up the various offices. I’ve had the systems checked, and we are secure. And we had one final sweep of the premises and we are clean.” He fished his notebook out of his pocket and scanned its contents. “Stephen Holmes wants to meet with you, just to run over various details.”

“Stephen…?” Angelina looked at her assistant questioningly.

“Head of Security.”

Angelina nodded. “I have nothing booked today, so let him know that I am free whenever he can pop in.” She thought for a moment. “Probably best to make it after eleven, as I need to send a report to Emma…let her know that we are officially settled in.”

“The ceremony went well.” Keith asked, as they continued on to Angelina’s office.

“I wasn’t arrested, so I think it went well.” She laughed. “It was fine. I have the documents in my case.” They reached the door to her secretary’s office, which Keith opened for her, and waited until she entered before following. “Good morning, Louise.”

Louise Naylor stopped what she was doing and looked up at Angelina. “’Morning, Miss Ormond.” She smiled, as she looked at several notes on her desk. “I’ve a message from Ms Sarie…”

“That woman will send herself into an early grave.” Angelina looked at Keith, and shook her head. “Chasing up that report already.”

Louise smiled. “And there have been a few calls from various offices, really just to confirm that everything is going to plan.” She ran her eyes over her list. “Nothing of importance. I’ll condense them into a memo.”

“Thank you, Louise.” Angelina looked at the two with her. “Louise, if Stephen Holmes calls, tell him I’m free anytime after eleven.” She turned to Keith. “Do you have time for a coffee?” He nodded, and replied in the affirmative. She turned to Louise, but the woman was already on her feet, heading towards the percolator.

“I’ll bring them through.”

Angelina and Keith headed in to her office. As they passed through the door, Angelina stared at the surroundings. Spacious, elegant, the kind of office she had seen her previous employers in. She smiled, as she walked over to the large desk, and seated herself in the plush leather seat, planning on staying in its comfort for as long as she could.

* * * * *

Having finished running over the finer details of the Embassy, and deciding what needed to be completed straight away, and what could be left for a while, Angelina sat back in her chair and watched Keith leave. She picked up her coffee and took a sip, grimacing as the cold liquid touched her mouth. Looking at the clock, she was surprised to see that it was already nine thirty.

She flicked on her computer, the screen coming instantly to life. As she made herself comfortable, she ran her eyes down the list of waiting mail, noticing nothing of immediate importance, most of them seemed to be congratulations and greetings from friends, wishing her luck in her new role. She would answer them once she had dealt with the report. She began to type.


Secure Channel/Encrypted

To: Emma Sarie, Minister of Foreign Affairs
From: Angelina Ormond, Tartarian Ambassador to Tarasovka

Subject: Tarasovka Embassy

The arrival in Tarasovka has been successful. All Embassy staff have been working hard to ensure that the Embassy and all its contents were in place for our arrival. Other than the items that were transported on my flight, everything has been installed, and the entire move should be completed before the week is out.

All security checks have been completed successfully. Security level is set to amber following an incident of unrest nearby, but we anticipate that this will return to green within the next few weeks. I will apprise you of the situation regularly.

The meeting with the Ruling Council took place yesterday, and entrustment papers have been exchanged. The signatory for the exchange was Councillor Puchinov. Full details will be forwarded to you shortly.


Hitting the send button, she sent the secure communiqué to Tartarus, and sat back in her chair, giving herself a moment to reflect on the short time that she had been in this nation, already she felt like she belonged here. Her thoughts turned for a moment to a certain Lieutenant, which she quickly swept away, knowing that she had work to do.

Getting out of her chair, she moved over to the window, and looked out at the sights. She could here the hustle and bustle of the Embassy staff outside as they worked to bring everything into order. She looked at the clock, and wondered where the day was going. In another hour, she was open to seeing the Security Head. Returning to her desk, she began to plough through her emails and the documents that were already piling up in her in tray.

Offices of the Secretariat for Foreign Relations,
Kashtarkhir Palace
Capital City of Vigvar,
Federal Sisgardian Fiefdoms,
Sisgardia.

Ithun stretched lazily in his armchair as he lay aside a pile of sheets covered with Cyrillic handwriting, red corrections and remarks dotting the landscape of the papers. He was the one to have insisted that Angelina should learn to write in Russian simultaneously with learning to speak the language and he was the one playing the teacher, doing all the corrections and giving advice. All in all, she was doing nicely and he was already looking forward to teaching her Taraskath.

He stood up from his chair and went up to the window of his office, opening a view on the old city that was painted gold by the autumn. Taraskovyan old cities always comprised a great number of parks, with at least half the territory of the city being dedicated to greenery. And so, when autumn came each year, the cities would be painted into gold, orange, red, with rare isles of green. A truly magnificent view. The leaves fell on the ground and were carried away by the wind, creating a moving carpet beneath the feet of the by passers.

It has already been a couple months since Lina assumed her functions and they have been meeting regularly. He showed her through the city, took her to the theatres and various parties, taught her about local history and customs. Not that she would really need to have such deep knowledge, but he wanted to make her an integrated asset that would know her way around Tarasovka. After all, he did wish for her mandate in Tarasovka to last for a long, long time. Was he acting selfishly? Maybe…

His thoughts were interrupted by a bright flash of light, almost blinding, that appeared among the Pillars of the Outer Ring for a second. And then a second one, dimmer, and two other followed. Seconds later, he heard the almost deafening echo of thunder. But, alas, it was no thunder that he heard, but an explosion of tremendous proportions. And as the horizon filled with smoke, he rushed to his communications terminal…

***



Federal Government Warning to All Foreign Diplomatic Staff in Vigvar.
Timestamp: 15:24:15 ; 23/9/1147

All foreign diplomatic personnel living and working in the Capital City of Vigvar are strongly discouraged from exiting into the Outer Ring pending further developments. All foreign diplomatic personnel living or working in the Outer Ring are strongly advised to remain at home or at the place of work and request police escort for exit.

***


From: Ithun Khat
To: Angelina Ormond
Subject: Security Measures

Lina,

Can’t join you via the phone since all of the lines seem to be overloaded. As you must have already learned, there has been a terror attack of tremendous scale in the Outer Ring and I fail to even imagine the number of victims. But I now fear that the White Legion, if indeed it were them, might want to try and pursue their onslaught within the Old City, profiting from the unavoidable disorder that will strike the security services soon enough.

I advise you to remain at the Tartarian Embassy. You are situated next to a large concentration of Federal forces around the Winter Palace and in adjacent districts, so your security is guaranteed.

I will contact you later with further information. As of now, stay safe.

Yours,
Ithun

***

Federal Government Warning to All Foreign Diplomatic Staff in Vigvar.
Timestamp: 18:13:24 ; 23/9/1147

All foreign diplomatic personnel living and working in the Capital City of Vigvar are hereby prohibited from exiting into the Outer Ring. The Federal government has ordered an increase of security of all diplomatic compounds in the Capital City to guarantee the security of foreign diplomatic staff. All foreign diplomatic personnel living or working in the Outer Ring are hereby ordered to retreat to their diplomatic compounds under the protection of Federal forces.

***

18:01:34,
Epicentre of the Vigvar Bombings,
Outer Ring of Vigvar,
Federal Sisgardian Fiefdoms,
Sisgardia.

“Konstantin! Kostya! Damnit! Call medics! NOW!”

“Sir, his vital functions are out. He is dead.”

“Shut up, Peter, and call a medic team!”

“But Sir, he is dead. Medics will not help him.”

Voevodov sat on the floor and shook his head in disbelief as Ustinov roared with anger into the comms device. In less than a minute a small aircraft landed next to them and evacuated the two surviving Ruling Councilors to safety.

***


Taraskovyan Press Agency

Ruling Councilor shot dead.

VIGVAR, TPA - The Ruling Councilor Konstantin Puchinov was shot dead today during inspection of the blast site in Vigvar’s Outer Ring. The other Ruling Councilors were not wounded. The killer, that has also been shot dead by the security, was a Kaskad officer always seen as loyal and trustworthy by his superiors.

Inquiries have already been opened and the Kaskad is taking steps to track down possible moles within its ranks.

The TNDF and the TSF have been ordered to highest state of alert.

As the communiqué hit her desk, Angelina sighed, knowing instantly that the news would not be good. Over the last few hours things seemed to be escalating out of control, not that she was allowing herself to fall into a panic just yet. She had received a message from Ithun, which had helped to alleviate her fears slightly, but still, being in the midst of a potential civil war did not make her feel all that comfortable.

She bleeped in her secretary, who moments later knocked and entered. Angelina indicated the seat for the woman to take. “Louise, I need to send word to Tartarus apprising them of the situation. I want us to be ready to withdraw if we are given word to do so. I want you to arrange with Keith to get the evacuation procedure confirmed, just in case.” She looked at the woman before her, who was looking a little worried. “We have nothing to fear, I believe that the Taraskovyans have everything in hand.”

Just as she finished speaking, there came another knock on her door, and Keith popped his head around the door. “Angelina, I think you should take a look at this.” As he entered, he produced a news report. “One of the Ruling Council has been killed.”

Angelina looked at him silently, a look of disbelief in her eyes as she reached over and took the offered paper from her aid. “When did this happen?” She ran her eyes over the words before her. “I think I need to send word to Tartarus. Keith, I want you to work with Louise, we need to keep on top of the situation.”

The two nodded and left, both knowing what had to be done. Keith was more than just an aid, and was Angelina’s right hand man, the one she relied on to keep things moving behind the scenes while she worked as the more public face of the Tartarus. Turning to her computer she started on her own messages.


Secure Channel/Encrypted

To: Emma Sarie, Minister of Foreign Affairs
From: Angelina Ormond, Tartarian Ambassador to Tarasovka

Subject: Hostilities in Tarasovka

Recent documentation has reached me concerning the recent hostilities that have been erupting in the Outer Ring of Vigvar. We have received communication from the Taraskovyans that we should remain in our Embassies, which we have been following to the letter.

Within the last few hours, word has reached us concerning the murder of The Ruling Councilor Konstantin Puchinov. This recent development has alarmed us. And although at present we are under no immediate danger, we have raised our security level to red and have begun to implement a procedure for evacuation, should the word be given.

I shall keep you informed of further details as and when I receive them.


Hitting the send button, she sat back in her chair for a moment before setting to work on the next.


From: Angelina Ormond
To: Ithun Khat

Subject: Re: Security Measures

Ithun

I’m a little concerned about the escalating hostilities around here. With the death of the Ruling Councillor, I cannot help but fear that things are about to go from bad to worse.

On top of worrying about my own safety, I am also concerned for yours. Please keep me updated of your wellbeing.

Yours,

Lina

Sending off the second message, Angelina rose from her chair, and switched on the television, in a bid to keep on top of the situation. She just hoped that the Taraskovyans did not blanket their news.

And the Taraskovyans, surprisingly enough, did not blanket their news. The reasoning was simple – those politically active enough would find out anyway, and those without the sense of initiative presented no immediate danger anyway. And so all national channels, be they private or public, were busy with retransmitting the events in Taraskath and Russian throughout the country, while the South Cardininian and Utharian networks were talking in a language that became Taraskovyan only recently – Dutch. Networks on Mars were also busy with news from the Metropoly, of course.

And so those curious could switch between channels and even networks to fin what suited them best. However, all of them were broadcasting the same message: tremendous explosion in the Outer Ring of Vigvar, three pillars completely collapses, several other damages, the infra-layers on all four levels damaged, number of dead rising by the second. Most crews were not allowed on the site of the rescue operation for security reasons, but a crew from the state owned “Channel 3” was allowed to enter certain areas of the location and was filming scenes worthy of horror movies. Dust covered the ground, debris, human remains, everything was just a big puddle of grey. Clouds of dust mixed with smoke and filled the air, grey figures in protective outfit could be seen. A trooper in combat armor passed by the camera, carrying a young elvish girl in his arms, holding a respirator to her face. The Head of the Federal Emergency Committee (EmerCom), a governmental agency charged in dealing with this sort of situations, reassured the population that his service and those collaborating with them had all the resources and assets they needed to fulfill their tasks efficiently.

From time to time the live coverage of the events in Vigvar was interrupted to show various local events, such as the tightening of security measures, or international events. At 20:00 all of the channels broadcasted a message by the Ruling Council calling the people to remain calm and putting into action a martial hour lasting from 21:00 and up to 9:00 of the next day, to preserve an already rather fragile peace. But all in all, no major clashes nor attacks happened after the Vigvar bombings (except for some overzealous robbers in Arkhangelsk that tried to loot a shop profiting from the absence of police in the area and falling on an entire Airborne company that was being deployed to the neighbourhood).

***

But while the major part of the population was busy watching various networks to be updated on the latest events, there were some, those discontent with the Ruling Council, that were gathering to discuss the events and measures to be taken. It was thus no surprise that a little group of conspirators met at a random apartment somewhere on the outskirts of the Old City. And whilst the apartment was rather modest, it’s visitors were most surely not. Duke Anatoly Orlov, Leib-Duke Il’liar Tal-Nash, General Lazarevic, General Miloliudov, Poruchik Khat. All dressed into military combat armors. Indeed, the City was under Martial Hour and the only ones allowed to roam about the streets were military patrols.

“At this rate, our nation will be nothing more than a pile of smoldering ruins,” – Orlov sighed.

“And as terrible as that sounds, I have to agree with you, Orlov…”

The others smirked at the remark by Duke Tal-Nash. Everybody knew that the Tal-Nash, being rivals of the Shakhovskoy Dynasty, were the fiercest enemies of the Orlovs, who were tied to the Ruling Dynasty by blood and were their loyal allies. Moreover, the two families competed even on the economic agenda, always fighting for various sectors of the market. As such, the jewelry market was more or less equally divided by the two houses. Lazarevic, who was the commander of the Airborne, only shook his head.

“Unity is what we need. We all agree we want the old days back. But the problem is – who do we entrust with the Sword?”

“I believe we have a legitimate heir, Sir,” – Ithun said pensively – “Archduchess Vethara, sister of His Highness, Sathala watch over his soul.”

“Vethara is a weakling! We cannot possibly place her at the head of state!”

“And who else, Il’liar? You? In that case, you can expect my house to challenge that! And we will have an other nice little civil war.”

“Gentlemen! Calm down. Whatever Vethara is, we cannot deny the fact that she is a Shakhovskaya, and thus still has some extent of popular support. Pending further developments, we should stick with the plan of bringing her to power. We are still very, very far from attaining our goal and our plan still has the room to evolve in the process.”

“You and your compromises, Miloliudov,” – Il’liar chuckled and shook his head, - “but I have to agree. I will restrain myself and my house from our claims to the Sword for the time being.”

“We will need to convert the army to our cause… and the police…” Duke Orlov remained pensive for a second looking at Lazarevic and Miloliudov, the latter nodding in agreeing. Ithun, however, shook his head.

“To lure the army over to us we must prove that we are an authority. And that Vethara is a worthy leader. And how do we prove that if she is hiding in a foreign country, Gentlemen? A solution would be to have a strong commander that would inspire all branches of the army. So far, we can only count on the Airborne and on the Air Force, but what about the Space Fleet, which still is fanatically loyal to Puchinov even if the latter is dead? Old habits die hard.”

“And what does the Leib-Count propose then?” Duke Orlov frowned, making an insistence on Ithun’s title, which was lower than his.

“We will need some sort of organized paramilitary group. But not an obvious one… hmmm…” The young Poruchik looked at the two rival nobles and grinned. “I do believe that the Orlov and Tal-Nash Houses have enough means to create an extensive Security Corporation. There are many former TDI, TNSD and army personnel out there that would rally to our cause.”

“An undercover militia trained by military standards… very cunning, Poruchik,” – Lazarevic grinned.

“So shall it be! Il’liar, how about it?”

“Why not. I could spare some of my riches.”

And so it was decided and the conspirators drank to their future success before vanishing from the apartment one by one. Little did they know that parallel to their little plot a machination of greater scale was taking place, led by one who was supposed to never return…

Regierung House, Erebus, Tartarus

Sitting in front of the computer screen, reading through her emails, Emma frowned as she clicked the next in the list and read the contents. She shook her head slowly, as she pressed the com on her desk, the voice of the secretary answering almost immediately.

“Dane, contact Her Imperial Majesty, I need to speak with her immediately.” She released the button and listened as he consented before the room once more filled with silence. She quickly tapped in a message and sent it off to Angelina, asking for more information as soon as possible, knowing that they had to have all the facts before they could make a decision. This was something they could really do without so soon after opening relations with the Taraskovyan government.

Gathering up her paperwork, she began to focus her thoughts, making notes and silently hoping that this did not escalate before they could react to matters. They certainly did not want to lose this connection before the ink had even dried on the agreement.

* * * * *

Ewige Verdammnis Palace, Erebus, Tartarus

Gehenna looked over the dossier that resting in her hands, her eyes following the words. As the minutes passed her expression matched that of the Foreign Minister hours before. She sighed deeply, as she came to the end of the document and lowered it onto the desk before her. Her gaze moved to the face of Emma, who was sitting opposite.

“All we can do is wait for more information, and be on standby to ship our personnel out of there the moment we need to.” Gehenna sat back in her chair and shook her head. “I want to know the minute we hear anything from Ambassador Ormond. Keep me informed of every change, and get Intelligence working on discovering what this uprising is all about. I don’t want our people sitting in the middle of a war zone, without knowing what the war is all about.”

Emma nodded making some notes. “Ambassador Ormond should be able to get some details from inside the nation.”

“Of course, that would depend on how much information the Taraskovyan government is releasing.” Rising from her chair, Gehenna walked around and stood just before her minister. “I do not want us caught any more unprepared than we already are. All information from Ambassador Ormond needs to be sent to Intelligence and to this office. I want everyone, who needs it, to have a complete understanding of the entire situation.”

Jotting down a few more details, Emma looked up. “Our arrival in Tarasovka could not have come about at a worse time.”

Gehenna shook her head. “With any luck, the Taraskovyan government will have everything under control before we need to make a move.” The discussion continued for several more minutes, both women knowing that they could do nothing for the time being other than wait.

It would have seemed as if the White Legion was not eager, for one reason or another, to press on with its offensive and initiate a full scale uprising aiming at an overthrow of the wailing government. Within the days that came after the Vigvar attacks, the situation went back to the ‘relative peace’ that reigned over the Federation, with Legion backed thugs attacking elvish interests, the Valinorhíni countering the menace the best way they could and the law enforcement caught in between. From time to time Federal forces would clash with ‘regular’ White Legion or Valinorhíni troops, or raid suspected hideouts of various criminal organisations (the list of such including, but not limiting itself, to the two aforementioned organisations), various operations taking place throughout the entire Metropoly. The Kaskad, following recent events, decided to make public some of its information concerning the White Legion ( http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/White_Legion). And although most of it was already widely speculated about, the official report confirmed the worst of fears on the extent of the organisations reach. And although the information could not be compared to a political bomb, it did spark some heated debates in the midst of Taraskovyan intellectual and political circles.

In Vigvar things returned to their usually grey and agonizing state, the rainy weather clearly not helping cheer the population up. Cold winds battered through the streets as winter made its approach on the country, a winter that promised to be very cold, as icy water poured down from the sky. It was a Sunday, but the streets were empty, except for police patrols and the army barrages in several locations, especially the one stretching the length of the Winter Palace perimeter. Federal troops stood under the rain, water pouring down their combat armour, as they faced, on the other side of the fence, Alexander Leib-guards in their deep blue armour. From time to time, two soldiers from ‘adverse’ sides would engage into dialogue, ones asking why didn’t the others surrender, others asking why were they treated as criminals. None could answer the other’s questions and so the contact died out soon after being established, only to be reestablished again some time later to end in the same manner.

But even a brief contact of such nature was what Ithun craved for. He had not seen Lina ever since the attacks happened, resolved to satisfy himself with messages that he sent her, taking news of her situation and reassuring her the best he could. Foreign diplomatic staff was yet again allowed full freedom of movement (to the acceptable boundaries, of course), but diplomats were dully advised by the Kaskad to provide themselves with armed police or army escort should they leave the limits of the Old City. But even that, however, did not allow him to arrange a meeting with Angelina, for she had her schedules, he had his and, most importantly, the Kaskad was again carrying out purges amidst the ranks of the army, searching for White Legion sympathizers. And the young Poruchik already had quite a bad record with the Taraskovyan intelligence community already. He did not fear being locked up behind bars or executed, but he simply could not accept the idea of never seeing her smile again. Besides, he feared for her own safety, for he doubted that the Kaskad would be very respectful of such a notion as ‘diplomatic immunity’ and ‘ambassadorial status’ should it really decide to act. He sighed as he poured himself a glass of water and sat on the couch of his living room, looking over his little apartment, his gaze wandering off, outside the window, staring into the grey skies beyond.

His thoughts jumped from one completely unrelated subject to another, like a kangaroo that caught its tail on fire, as he tried to empty his mind, failing miserably. His turmoil was ended by the ringing of the door bell, that brought him back to the real world.

- And here they come, - he said to himself, immediately thinking that the Kaskad finally came for him. He sighed, stood up and went to open the door, preparing himself for the worst. After all, with the Kaskad, hope was forbidden.

“Come on. I know you are there.”

Fidgeting as she waited, Angelina pushed the bell again, and looked over her shoulder, afraid that she might find one of the rebels standing behind her, pointing his weapon at her. She knew that leaving the embassy had been a foolish move, but she had felt herself growing increasingly worried over the last few days, and despite the reassuring emails and messages, it was not enough for her anymore. She needed to see with her own eyes that Ithun was safe and well.

Running her fingers nervously through her hair, she began to wonder if he was there. She knew in the current situation he would be needed elsewhere, which was one of the reasons she had not been much in his company, as well as the fact that she believed he was trying to keep her at a safe distance from the trouble. But at this moment, her own safety was secondary to laying her fears to rest. Pushing her finger again on the button, she rang the bell several times in succession.

“Please be there. Please.”

Placing her head near the door, she thought she could make out the sound of movement inside. Pressing her ear to the door she listened, but could not make out any definite sounds as the noises in the street made it hard to tell. Suddenly she wondered whether this was such a good idea. She had no idea if Ithun was home, despite the signs of light in some of the windows, and if he was home, who was to say that he was alone.

She sighed, annoyed with herself for not really thinking this through. She had literally stormed out of the embassy, with no plan. She had not listened to Keith when he tried to tell her of the folly of her desire to leave, and had been angered into action when he pulled Stephen, Head of Security, into the conversation. She could still here them calling after her as she jumped into her vehicle and sped towards Ithun’s residence.

Feeling herself getting more and more agitated, Angelina began to worry, and feel a little foolish. Ithun would probably think she had gone mad, and would more than likely be annoyed with her decision to come out. He had told her to remain inside, and she had gone against his advice and risked her safety needlessly.

Just as she was about to give up, and return to the embassy, she heard the clicking of the lock, and stood outside expectantly. Suddenly fear rose through her body, as it occurred to her that she had no idea if the person opening the door would even be the man she hoped it was…

He shook his head as he approached the door as thoughts flooded his mind. After all, it could just be a friend coming to visit him. Yes, a neighbour that would come over out of boredom to spend some time. That could be a possibility, after all, by such a rainy Sunday... But he received no visits for weeks already, his neighbours clearly wishing to stay clear of him with each passing days, only a few good friends remaining loyal. He sighed, feeling more and more confused with every step, a part of him refusing to believe the other part. One called for calm, the other to seize his handgun and, if it were Kaskad goons, to offer some resistance worth of a Taraskovyan parachutist. The only problem was that he knew quite clearly that using force against the Kaskad would be synonym to a death sentence. And that made him rather enraged, for he could not fight his enemies.

He stood in front of the door as the bell ringed yet another time, his hand reaching for the handle to open it, pulling the door on himself. His heart was no longer beating wildly, he was calm, as he was taught at the Academy, to always be calm, regardless of events, because rage leads to blindness and blindness leads to bumps on the head or worse, as his combat instructor used to repeat. Quite a fine man he was. Too bad he died during the Plague.

And as the door came open, his eyes widened and breath was cut, as he clearly did not expect that. Anything but that, actually. It was dangerous for a foreigner to walk out in the streets, it was dangerous for a foreigner to walk out in the streets all alone, it was dangerous for a foreigner to leave the Old City and venture into the Outer Ring. He repeated it several times in his messages to her. And yet, she was there. He knew that her ambassadorial status would open most of the locks on her path, but he never believed she would actually brave the block posts on the exit-bridges of the Old City, pass the patrols in the Outer Ring and hammer the building’s security to let her in.

“Lina?”

He murmured softly as they stood silent for a moment, until he pulled her in, closing the door, and hugged her tightly, reaching up to stroke her head.

“By the Gods! I… you… here...” He blinked, not finding the right words. “I would have never thought! I have told you to stay safe, Lina. And it is not safe around here, especially not for a foreigner.”

He paused for several seconds, just stroking her hair, until he looked down into her eyes, shaking his head and sighing, with a small smile, as he spoke, in a soft tone, without any measure of anger, but actually with a great deal of admiration.

“What in the name of all of the Seven Deities am I to do with Your Rebellious Ambassadorshipness?”

The sigh of relief that escaped from Angelina’s lips as she saw Ithun at the door was long and loud. Feeling his arms wrapped around her, she found the bravery that was beginning to seep from her as she stood at the door. Looking up into his face, she smiled happily, one of her arms moving around his body, while the other reached up, her hand cupping his cheek.

“I was so worried about you.” She let out another deep breath, feeling her heartbeat slowly returning to its usual pace. “I know you said to stay put, but I needed to see you.” A smile slowly etched itself on her lips. “And you are doing exactly what I and the Seven Deities would want you to be doing.” She tightened her arm around him, as she pressed a kiss to his lips.

Relaxing her hold, she let her hand drop from his cheek, and took hold of his hand, that was playing with her hair. She interwove her fingers with his, and smiled again, as her eyes flicked around his home. “I hope I haven’t caused you a problem by being here. It’s just…well, I just needed to see that you were alright.” Her eyes began to sparkle. “And I missed you.”

Standing in front of Ithun, Angelina began to blush slightly, hoping that he did not think her too foolish; it was obvious that he thought her at least a little foolish to have ventured out, especially against his warnings. “I guess I was a little impetuous.” She shrugged slightly and smiled wryly. “Well, very impetuous…but it’s good to see you.”

His face shone with happiness as he listened to her words. It felt good just standing there by her side, holding her closely, rubbing her back gently. “Do not worry about anything, Lina. You are here and you are safe. That is what matters. And when you leave, I will arrange for an escort for you.” He said as he leaned forward to kiss her again, before looking back into her eyes, his own ones clearly shining with joy. “You cannot imagine how happy I am to see you, dear heart.”

He let her go a little, leaving an arm around her waist, and led her from the rather small entry hall into the not so big either living room. Everything was very tidy and quite. A sofa with a low glass table in front of it, some furniture, a ‘computer’ in a corner, all in all the room was neither over encumbered nor ‘naked’. On the surfaces some photographs stood. Some depicting a man and a woman embraced together, both having some of Ithun’s distinct traits, but clearly older than him, most surely being his parents. Other photographs featured Ithun himself in company of his friends. On some of the pictures Ithun was in company of civilians, on others he was in company of men and women in various military uniforms, ranging from photographs with young people in yunker uniform to a photograph depicting several dozen soldiers, including Ithun, in combat armor, with their helmets off, posing triumphantly somewhere in the mountains. The picture was dated of October 1141 A.S., the month of the famous last stand of the 74th Airborne division in the Northern Spine during the Plague. Next to it a curious person could spot the face of a young woman, with blonde hair and blue eyes, clearly taken from some official database, and most specifically from a Ministry of Foreign Affairs document bearing the name of one Ormond Angelina.

On the wall above the sofa was suspended a sword, an important part of the uniform of a Taraskovyan officer. The rest of the outfit was surely hidden away in one of the shelves of the bedroom, for Ithun clearly did not walk around in his military uniform while being at home. Indeed, he was merely dressed into a white t-shirt and a pair of jeans, the entire image being a clear contrast with his usual self. There was a small bar standing next to the sofa, between it and the windows that were giving access to the balcony. On the other side of the sofa, halfway between it and the door leading into the entry hall, was a closed door. Parallel to it, on the other side of the room, was an open door that led into the kitchen.

Ithun rubbed Angelina’s back slightly and gave her a kiss on the cheek. “You can make yourself at home.” He said with a smile as he looked into her eyes. “Do you want a drink? Or may I show you the bedroom?”

Angelina looked into Ithun’s eyes and smiled. “A drink would be wonderful. I kind of left the Embassy in a hurry.” She felt herself blushing slightly, as she revealed her impatience. “Some strong would go down a treat.” She smiled, as she let her eyes wander around the room. “You can show me the bedroom later, if the offer still stands.”

Releasing him from her arms, she moved over to where a few photographs stood. “Cute baby.” She turned to face him, smiling. “It’s no wonder you turned out so handsome.” Returning her attention to the other pictures, she let her gaze linger on each one for a moment, before inspecting the next. Picking up the odd one or two, she gave them a closer look before placing them back in their spots.

“I really hope I haven’t caused you any trouble by coming here.” She wandered back to where he was. “Especially causing you the hassle of arranging an escort for my return to the embassy. That means a whole host of people will know of my visit.” She shook her head, knowing that really was not in either of their best interests. “I really should listen to advice. Yours especially.”

She leant forward and placed a kiss on his cheek, before moving off towards the window, where she stood watching the city, as she waited for him to prepare their drinks.

He smiled as he opened the bar, looking through the bottles, trying to pick something good. “Strong, hmmmm? Some cognac would do nicely then.” He took out a bottle of the drink and a pair of crystal cognac goblets. He poured some liquid into each glass, put the bottle on the table in front of the sofa, picked up the goblets and came up to Angelina, handing the girl her drink.

“Do not worry about people knowing, Lina. I will just as well accompany you myself, if that makes you feel better.” He smiled as he sipped his drink a little. He did lie about the fact that nobody would know. He knew that they did not yet resort to putting his flat under surveillance, but he was sure that the building’s security had received very generous ‘encouragement’ to communicate them any interesting happenings involving one Khat Ithun. But there was no need for her to know every single detail and to make her worry any more than she already is. After all, her mere presence in that room indicated that she could do incredible things when worrying.

He looked out the window, on the unstopping rain outside, and sighed. “We should be having snow by now. I have a feeling this will be one dirty winter…” He said pensively, before returning his gaze on his lover. “You really are one kind of a girl, you know. To dart out into a territory still officially considered as a highly potential battleground…” He shook his head. “But it is not my job to preach.” He smiled and reached forward to rub his hand against her cheek.

“I think I need to be preached to more then maybe I will listen.” Angelina shook her head slowly, before she took a slow sip of her drink, feeling the heat of the liquid as it slid down her throat. “Mmm, that’s better.” She looked up into his eyes, her feelings for him reflected in her gaze. “Father always did say I was one for doing foolish things, and said I would either end up in jail or in the Ambassadorial profession.”

She laughed lightly then turned back to the window, and gazed out. “Snow doesn’t sound good, especially not with all the trouble around.” Turning suddenly, worry etched into her features, she looked at Ithun questioningly. “How is this going to end? I am so frightened something is going to happen to you, Ithun.” She wrapped her free arm around his body, as she buried her head in his chest.

He rubbed her back reassuringly, kissing the top of her head, breathing the perfume of her hair for a second. He did not know how it would all end, but, as always, he hoped for the best. Even if, deep inside of him, he knew quite clearly that there were chances that everything might as well turn out for the worst. “Oh, I am sure that eventually everything will be just fine.” He grinned as he buried his face into her hair for a second, kissing her head again, before continuing. “I will be fine. After all, I have survived the Plague, so what is a little civil unrest for me?”

He laughed slightly as he yet again stroked her back, keeping her close to him. “Life is not a fairy tale, of course, but all fairy tales have some part of truth in them, you know. So I guess that, sooner or later, the Prince will marry the Princess and they will live happily ever after.” He frowned for a second as he glanced around his little apartment. “Of course, the Prince will have to put to some use all those funds that are rotting on his bank accounts and buy a bigger apartment or a house.” He laughed again, wishing he had just bit his tongue instead of saying such a load of stupidities in a row. And as he remained calm on the surface, inside of him he wished to bang his head against the wall until he made an extra exit out of his apartment. It was true that he thought about founding a family with Lina, but not then, not at the moment when the country was steadily going into a black hole. But well, what was said could not be taken back and so he just kissed the top of her head again, waiting for a reaction, if any.

OOC: Just wanted to say how good this thread is; excellent writing, good context and a lovely story. Kudos to both of you!

Angelina raised her head and looked at Ithun, her expression could not display her incredulity any plainer even if it had been written there in black ink. “Ithun, there are people attacking your nation, doing their utmost to destroy everything important here.” She shook her head sadly. “I think you have cause to be concerned.” She lowered her eyes from his and sighed. “I’m sorry.” She ran her finger lightly over his chest. “I can’t help being worried.”

She loosened her grip around him, and brought her glass up to her lips, emptying it in one go. “I really could use another one of those.” Smiling up at him, she released her hold completely, and held the cup up before her. “So…” She again watched him, her expression questioning. “The Prince is looking to settle down?” A small laugh came from her lips, lightening her mood somewhat. “And he feels the need to move house?”

Looking around her she moved over to the table where she saw the picture of herself. “You really need a better picture.” She squinted as she stared at it. “If I didn’t know better I would say it wasn’t me.” Turning back towards Ithun, she smiled again. “You know, the Princess might have somewhere for them to stay if she didn’t find this place kind of cosy.”

He shook his head as he took her goblet and headed towards the bottle. “I was very, very worried six years ago, Lina, when I and them…” He turned around slightly and made a motion of his head at a picture on which he was represented with his comrades in combat armor, posing somewhere atop some mountains. “… were holding out in the Northern Spine. The Plague, Lina, claimed the lives of five hundred million Taraskovyans in a mere four to five months. You see the smiling and triumphant faces on this picture? We had just taken position and were readying to repel the first waves of separatist forces. From all these people only I survived the weeks of fighting. If Hell exists, Lina, than that was it, for it poured fire as the ground burned.” He bit his tongue, not wishing to go into details, for there was no need to scare her. He was not angry, just sad, sad because of the friends he lost, sad because of other reasons. “Compared to that, the current events are just a gang shooting.” He shook his head and sighed, pouring her and himself another portion of cognac before pondering if it was wise filling their stomachs with alcohol without any food. “But yes, I do consider settling down once things are calm around here once again.” He walked up to her, smiling, and handed her the goblet.

“If the Princess will be generous enough as to provide her humble servant with an illustration of her divine self, her humble servant would appreciate the gesture greatly.” He laughed, bowing slightly, before taking a sip of his drink and looking at her. “Do you wish something to eat? I am not a cook, but I surely have some ‘warm ‘em up’ dishes around my kitchen… somewhere…” He blinked as he looked into the direction of the entry into the kitchen. He knew how to cook a lizard or a toad to survive out in the wild, but house cooking was surely not made for him, unless his guests liked charred coal, of course. But since he knew no one who would like this kind of cuisine, himself included, he preferred to buy already prepared meals that just needed to be warmed up. Not the best solution to impress a girl with cooking skills, true, but he had no choice.

He leaned slightly forward, pressing his forehead gently against hers, smiling as he looked into her eyes. “And you know, the Prince would welcome the Princess to stay here, if only it was possible.”

“Dinner would be most welcome.” Angelina laughed lightly. “Like I said, I kind of left the Embassy in a rush, and I skipped lunch, so at the moment even a piece of cardboard seems appetising.” She pressed a kiss to his cheek. “Although, that does not mean I want you to serve cardboard.” A grin slipped onto her lips as she moved out of his arms.

She walked over to the couch, and sat down, slipping her shoes off of her feet and wriggling her toes. As she rested, she let her mind wander over what he had said, her eyes turning to where the photo he had mentioned was placed. She looked at the faces smiling out of the picture and felt sad, hoping that he did not think that she had belittled what he had gone through. During their conversations, she knew that he had been through hell.

Angelina raised her glass to her lips and looked a little embarrassed. “I know you have been through harder things, but I haven’t.” She blushed slightly. “And I hate not being able to do anything. I’m here in a nation that I barely know, in a situation that I have no control over.” A wry smile played on her lips. “And someone I care about could become wrapped up in it in a big way. This is a worrying time for me.” Tilting her glass, she took a long sip.

Ithun clacked his heels and nodded, retiring to the kitchen, letting Angelina alone in the living room for a moment. He opened the refrigerator, looking through the available meals. After going through a couple boxes, he decided to prepare some lasagna. And so the oven was alit and the lasagna was inside, cooking steadily, as Ithun appeared in the door between the living room and the kitchen, smiling at Angelina.

“Well, dear heart, as of now we are here and we are both safe, so you just relax and stop worrying.” He pondered for a moment before continuing. “And speaking of worries, you might want to call your chief of security and tell him or her that everything is fine with you.” He gave her a wink and a smile, motioning his head in the direction of the phone (which had many more uses than just audio contact, of course, but it was still a phone in the common understanding of the term), and vanished back into the kitchen.

Angelina looked towards the kitchen where Ithun had just disappeared into to. Raising her voice slightly, she called after. “Do you honestly think he wouldn’t have had me tailed as soon as I left the building?” She shook her head and laughed. “He might have let me walk out, but he would have made sure he knew where I was, if only for him and Keith to have a good laugh at my stupidity.”

Rising from her seat, she moved over to the kitchen door, leaning lightly on the frame as she took another sip of her drink, feeling the soothing effects of the first. “But I should ring them, just so they know I’ve not been kidnapped or something.” She blew him a kiss. “I’ll just be a minute.” Turning back into the living room, she picked up the phone, and dialled, finally getting through to the security department, informing them of her whereabouts and safety.

Minutes later she placed the receiver in its cradle and returned to kitchen. Peering inside, she raised an eyebrow questioningly. “Do you need any help with anything? I’m a dab hand with microwave food.” She entered the room, placing her glass on the counter, freeing her hands to give any aid if required.

“A good laugh at your stupidity? I surely hope not, I would have to challenge them to duel if they insulted you in one way or the other.” He gave her a malicious wink and grinned, while going through several cupboards looking for the forks and knives and other very useful kitchen tools. Finally, he found them in one of the drawers, sighing with relief. While she was away calling her security department, he managed to find the plates.

When she returned he gave a glance at the oven where the lasagna was cooking steadily and smiled, walking up to her. He lay his hands on her waste, pulling her closer to him, and claimed her mouth in a kiss before breaking it a rather lengthy moment later, looking her deep into the eyes, smiling. “You are a guest, Lina, and guests do not help with routine house tasks. Masters of the house worry about those.” He brought his arms up, laying them on her cheeks, smiling again. “Or do you wish to consider yourself as a master of the house?”

And however magical this moment was, it was all shattered when the lasagna in the oven began to crackle suspiciously. Ithun, wide eyed, turned around and dashed towards the oven, switching it off. He opened it and extracted their meal, hopefully not calcinated, for the Poruchik managed to rescue it just in time. He erupted into laughter and shook his head, looking back at Angelina. “Yes, true, I do need help at food preparing. Anyway, could you pass me a knife, please?” He said, laying the lasagna in its container on the counter, blowing on it slightly to cool it down.

Doing as asked, Angelina passed Ithun a knife and smiled. “Guest or not, I really don’t mind helping out. And technically I’m not really a guest, as you didn’t invite me, I kind of appeared unexpected.” She moved over to him and pressed a kiss to his cheek, before stepping back to allow him room to finish dishing the food. “Mmm, it does smell nice and I’m famished.”

Picking up her glass, she took another sip, before stepping back into the living room, and depositing her drink on the table. “Is this a lap or table dinner?” She called over her shoulder to Ithun, who she could hear cutting around the edges of the food. “Either is fine by me.” She really did not want him to go to any trouble, especially as she really should not have come in the first place.

She walked over to the window, and watched the street for a moment, hoping for a return to the times that she and Ithun could walk down the street, and eat out in some restaurant, rather than have to remain behind closed doors. Turning, she looked back towards the kitchen. “Once this mess is over, I’m going to take us out for dinner, and then throw some Embassy bash.” If we still have one by then. This might not go our way, she thought sadly.

“The prospect of what you have just decided sounds most delightful and I am already looking eagerly forward to it.” He said as he entered the living room carrying a table-cloth that he spread over the low glass table, clearing the surface of it from various objects first, of course. He laid the covers for two, giving her a smile and inviting her to get seated. Both sets were by the couch, for the length of the table allowed to do so. By all of the rules of etiquette and traditions, he should have laid them on opposite sides of the table, but he wanted to sit next to the girl at a dinner for once, in the good mood of a family dinner.

With that, he vanished back into the kitchen, reappearing with two plates, on each of them a fuming share of lasagna, cooked in the best traditions of ‘la rapide cookeengue cuisine’. He lay the plates on the table, between the covers, fetched the bottle of cognac that he also placed on the table, and smiled at Angelina. “Bon appetit, dear heart.”

Making herself comfortable on the couch, she looked over at Ithun as he placed the plates before them, and seated himself. She let her gaze run over his body, feeling a happiness and contentment spread over her, as always happened in his company. She cut herself a bit of the lasagne and brought it up to her lips, blowing it before slipping it into her mouth carefully, so as not to burn herself.

“I won’t start planning it just yet.” She spoke, as soon as she finished swallowing the first bite. She took several more mouthfuls in silence before turning back to Ithun, her fork stopped halfway between her mouth and plate. “Any word on the Ruling Council? They must be reeling from Councillor Puchinov’s death.” She did not want to dwell on the things happening around them, wanting more to lose herself in his company, but being ever the professional, she needed to know as much as she could.

Ithun finished chewing the hot piece of lasagne and swallowed it, frowning slightly as he heard her question. “Well, my rank is not high enough to be able to meet them personally… But I guess it must have come as a shock.” He sighed as he looked her into the eyes, smiling sadly. “It came as a shock to everybody, actually. Puchinov, and it is no secret, was the most beloved by the people among the Ruling Councillors. And the Space Fleet was fiercely loyal to him.” He took another bit of lasagne that he chewed rather quickly.

“As of reeling or not, I would think the latter is more probable. They are Taraskovyan officers, after all, you do not destabilise one of our kin by killing his comrade. So I fear that nothing will change.” He smiled again as he placed his arm on her knee, rubbing it gently, his gaze fixing it for a moment, absently, as he thought back to numerous things. There were actually many, many more things happening that he could not reveal. It was not the fact that he distrusted Angelina that kept him silence, on the contrary if there was one person he thought he could trust, it was her, but his duty was with his country and if something had the mention “Secret” on it, then he would do everything to make sure it remained so. He looked back up at her and smiled again. “But how are things with you? Hope you had no security problems as of late.”

Angelina prodded her fork into a piece of lasagne, and then stopped as she looked at Ithun frowning. “But surely despite the fact that they are Taraskovyan officers, they must be feeling something. You don’t just lose one of your ruling council without there being some repercussions.” She stared at him disbelievingly, the food momentarily forgotten. “The others have been taken to a safe place, which means they cannot be in the heart of the country as they were before.”

Shaking her head slightly, she once more focused on her fork, finally bringing it and its contents to her mouth. She cautiously took a bit, careful not to burn herself on the still hot food. “Have you noticed that cheese always takes a long time to cool down?” She spoke as she cleared her mouth of the morsel, her fork already in place to pick up the next bit of food.

“And you do not have to worry about the Embassy, we have everything under control.” She lowered her free hand and placed it on top of his, as it rubbed up and down her leg. “And if the worst happens, we have contingency plans in place that will have us out at the first sign of trouble.” She pressed a kiss to his cheek. “You just look after yourself, and let me do the worrying.”

He smiled pensively as his hand rubbed her thigh, before he turned it around to mingle his fingers with Angelina’s, holding her hand gently. “Well, if you have any problems, just give me a call and I shall see what I can do. Have some friends around.” He looked up at her and gave her a wink. “Well armed friends.”

He released her hand to slide his arm behind her to rub her back this time. “And worry not about me. I can fend for myself.” He grinned widely as his eyes fixed hers. Just at that moment several police urban pacification aircraft glided through the air, maneuvering between the buildings, their sirens yelling out to rape the silence of the day. Mere moments after silence befell on the place again, interrupted by the raindrops battering against the windows. Ithun sighed sadly and shook his head, looking up at her, smiling. “Do not worry Lina. Eat now. I do not want a hungry Tartarian ambassador running around. Would be bad PR for Taraskovyan hospitality.”

Taking another mouthful of her food, Angelina looked thoughtfully at Ithun and smiled. “I don’t think you have to worry about me being hungry, unless it’s for you.” She gave him a wink, and returned her fork to her plate, ready to pick up the next morsel. “It’s so hard staying away from you at the best of times, but since this started…it’s been horrendous.”

Outside, some distance away, the rumbling of fighting filled the air. In the street, the voices of people as they moved quickly out of sight, in case suddenly the action moved closer to them. The pounding sounded like a heartbeat, but one filled with terror. As she listened, Angelina felt not only a little sad at what was happening, but fearful too, despite her act of bravery.

“I want it to end. I want to be able to walk down the street, to see you. I want to be able to work in the embassy without fear of someone knocking at the door, brandishing their weapons and ordering us out…or worse.” She shook her head sadly. “It’s like everything has gone from being so perfect to being…well, it’s almost like being in a nightmare; one that I’m afraid I’m going to be torn from and then I will have no word of you.” She smiled, sadly, as she dropped her fork onto her plate and wrapped her arms around him.

He remained silent, holding her close to him, not finding any words to say to reassure her, apart from lying that soon everything would be over. He knew not if anything will be over one day, after all, it has been going for the last six years. First with the uprising in Ekaterinburg when the army had to raze a significant portion of the Cardinian metropolis’es own Outer Ring. Then there were sporadic clashes all over the country, but these were minor skirmishes. And then came the Vigvar attacks, hundreds of thousands of dead, curfew over the Outer Ring, the army out in strength, police authorized to use lethal weaponry, off duty army and police officers allowed to carry firearms and use them if need be. Indeed, the situation was ugly. Something needed to be done. His ‘friends’ already had some ideas and were already working on a plot, but deep inside of him he knew that they would end up getting just an other armed militia. But then again, in the situation they were in, one more or one less had no significance.

He buried his face into her hair, sighing, and kissed her head. “You know, Lina, I never told you anything about the Plague. Not because I did not wish you to know more, but because I did not wish to ruin our rare meetings with sadness and horror.” He smirked slightly and shook his head, sighing again, pulling her closer to him, wrapping her arms as a barrier around her, shielding her from the outside world. “You know, the Plague was triggered by a dispute between Mikhail and Anastasya about who would rule the Grand Duchy. And, somehow, it all turned into an ECTOS infestation of Aphyr, people going mad and shooting at their own friends, plants poisoning us with toxic fumes. We could not take our helmets off, we could not take our armours off. Those wounded could only take healing stimulators. We were thirty at the position we had to defend. A small pass in the Northern Spine, without any strategic importance, but which could still be used by the separatists to access the territories still held by the Grand Duchy.”

He rubbed her back slightly as he paused for a second to look out of the window. Deaf sounds of gunfire were coming from some distance away as he sighed again and kissed the top of her head. “Our lines were simply outstretched. Many went mad and passed on the other side. It was not just a change of loyalties, Lina. It was madness. They ceased to be human, they opened fire at their friends, they killed children. Taraskovyan men killed Taraskovyan children. It was as if the past thousand years had never existed, as if our society was never united under a common banner and common values.” His heart beat increased as his voice trembled slightly. Indeed, because he was nervous he jumped from one point to the other, forgetting everything in between, to suddenly return to what he said earlier. It was the first time he made an attempt at opening his soul to her and he, already, was not sure that unleashing all this at her was a good idea. And so he raised her chin with his hand gently, rubbing her cheek with his thumb as he smiled at her. “I am sorry. I should not burden you with all this.” He clearly had much more to say, but he did not want to impose anything on her.

Looking up into Ithun’s eyes, Angelina smiled thinly. “No, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean this to turn into me whining about what is happening. I wanted to see you, to make sure you were alright.” She raised her hand and took hold of his by her face. “And I really did not want to rake up a painful part of your past.” Moving her hand, she brought his to her lips and pressed a kiss to his knuckles, as her gaze stayed fixed to his. “Not that I do not wish to know the things that have made you into the man I love, but I do not want to force you into reliving things you would rather…’, she paused searching for the right words. “Not forget…more keep buried.”

She lowered their hands to her lap, her finger stroking gently. “We should do something to cheer ourselves up…unless you want to talk?” Her expression turned questioning. “After we’ve finished here, we could retire.” She yawned playfully. “I’m feeling a growing need to lie down.” The grin and twinkling in her eye, indicating that she had no intention of sleeping.

Ithun looked lovingly into her eyes, smiling, as her words made him feel warm inside. “Oh, Lina… you truly are one of a kind.” He said mysteriously as he looked into her eyes. “That must be why I love you so much.” It was the first time he ever declared his true feelings towards her and, still reluctant to give in to any additional sentimentality, quickly pulled her slightly closer to claim her lips in a kiss, not allowing her a chance to reply. He could not describe the feeling of just having her by his side, but it made him joyful and happy, made him forget any troubles he had. The sweet taste of her lips, the softness of her skin, the perfume of her body made him crazy.

He said no further words, for they were not needed, and slid an arm beneath her knees. He picked her up, holding her firmly in his arms, and carried her off to the bedroom. He opened the door of the room with a kick of his foot, not caring about closing it once the two entered the room plunged into shadows. Indeed, the dark curtains were shut and there was no source of light, but they did not really need any as they let their bodies take care of everything.

Following Day
Tartarian Embassy, Capital City of Vigvar

“What the hell were you thinking?”

Angelina stared at the Head of Security as he paced back and forth in front of her, his face growing redder as he spoke. She had known this was coming; she would have been a fool if she had not. She had a feeling this was going to get much worse before it began to get better.

“Running off through a district of the capital that you were warned not to enter just speaks of a stupidity that I thought was beyond you.” Stephen stopped his walking, coming to a stop in front of her desk, resting his hands on the surface. “I know you are new to this role, Angelina, but anyone with an ounce of sense would not have done what you did.”

“Stephen, I realise that my actions might have been a little rash, but…” She managed to get out before being cut off.

“Rash is an understatement. You could have gotten yourself killed.” He shook his head, trying to understand where the woman was coming from, before resuming his rant as if talking to a child. “Then what would have happened? Inquest? Accusations? And then Tartarus would have been involved, not to mention what this looks like to the Taraskovyans.” He raised his hands slightly and banged them of the desk.

Angelina looked at Stephen, and then to Keith Mortimer, who was sitting off to one side. He shook his head as she returned her gaze. “Don’t look at me, Lina. I have to agree with Stephen, your actions could have caused an incident. A Tartarian Ambassador unable to follow simple instructions doesn’t give a very good impression of you or the Empire.”

“When Miss Sarie is informed of this, she will have you back in Tartarus before you can say sorry.” Stephen frowned heavily, stepping back from the desk slightly, and turning to the other man.

Angelina rose from her seat. “Nothing happened, I do not see why this needs to go further than this room.” She leant on her desk, her finger pointing angrily at the security head. “You’ve have blown this right out of proportion. My life was in no danger, and I was escorted back to the embassy without incident.”

Stephen turned to her as she spoke, stepping forward his anger rising. “If you had listened to me in the first place, there would have been no threat of an incident. You risked everything just to visit that man. Damn it, Angelina, this is about more than your sex life.”

“How dare you?” If the desk had not been between her and Stephen, she would have slapped him. “If you continue with this, it will be you on the plane back to Tartarus.”

As they shouted at each other, Keith rose from his chair, and moved into position between them, hands up in front of him, trying to bring some order to the meeting. “Alright, alright, let’s all calm down.” He sighed and shook his head. “There is no reason for either of you to return to Tartarus.” He looked at Stephen. “The Ambassador knows that she her actions were foolhardy, and she will not do it again. If she does, you can file your report and have her sent straight back to the Empire.” He then turned to Angelina. “And you know better than to question Stephen’s actions. He is only doing his job trying to ensure the safety of you and everyone else in this Embassy.”

As he flicked his gaze between the two, they nodded their heads. Angelina lowered herself into her seat, and Stephen stepped back, retaking his own seat. Waiting for a moment, Keith let the two calm a little before continuing. “Good. Now, I suggest we learn from this situation and make sure it doesn’t happen again.”

Angelina nodded. “I concur. I will behave in a much more reasonable manner in future.” She looked at Keith and then Stephen. “If there is nothing else to discuss, I have some work to do.”

The two made their exit silently, each of them distracted by their thoughts. As the door closed, Angelina could imagine the conversation they would be having. Leaning back in the chair, she sighed, knowing that she was in the wrong, but hated being told by two men who did not realise what she was feeling. Shaking the thoughts from her head, she settled into her work, thoughts of Ithun and the conversation popping in to her head every now and then.

And yet again Ithun was listening to the wisest of all words coming from the illustrous mouth of Chief Secretary Kumysov himself! He was not really listening to what the old man had to say, since everything he said revolved around the same principle of ‘behaviour improper for a Taraskovyan officer’ or something of sorts. He was actually thinking back to the day before, to Lina, her smile, the fire in her eyes, her devotion made him feel warm and happy, despite the shower of icy words being poured at him by his boss. However, at a certain point Kumysov, clearly irritated by the fact that some youngster dared smile joyfully while being lectured, allowed himself some freedom in qualifying the situation.

“I will contact the Kaskad and get to the bottom of this, Poruchik! And your refusal to collaborate does not play in your favour! Whose initiative was it? Yours? Or the one of Miss Ormond?”

Ithun sighed and shook his head. Kumysov, as horrible as the thought appeared, was the one responsible for the foreign policy of the Federation. And if he did not like a foreign representative, and he was bound not to like somebody who went against the advices given by the Federal authorities simply like that, because that somebody simply wanted to do so, he could contact the Ruling Council. And the Ruling Council could contact the rulers of the foreign nation. And the Ambassador could get recalled. All these thoughts flashed through Ithun’s mind in less than a second as his eyes narrowed slightly, imitating Kumysov’s ones, for the old man was of Tatar origins and thus had slightly narrow eyes himself.

“It was solely my initiative, Your Excellency.”

“And Miss Ormond just dashed off like that by the magic of your call?”

“It would seem so, Sire.”

Kumysov narrowed his already narrow eyes and fixed Ithun right into the eyes.

“Tell me, Poruchik, could you not have found a prostitute somewhere closer? Or do you have a certain liking for exotic personalities? I am sure that it must be quite exciting to… negotiate… with a foreign ambassador…”

Ithun sprang up from his chair, the knots of his muscles moving wildly from side to side as his blue eyes narrowed, flashing up with the cold, icy fire that is proper to Taraskath who are preparing to kill somebody and take an enormous amount of pleasure in doing so. The young officer placed his hands on the table between him and Kumysov as he looked the old man over and the old man returned the favour.

“You have a problem, Poruchik?” Kumysov said, accentuating the last word intentionally as he grinned.

“No, Sire. No problems at all. But tell me, Sire, where were you during the Plague?”

“I was Chief Quartermaster of Cardinia. Why?”

“So you did not fight?”

“No. Any further questions, young man?”

Ithun breathed deeply, his icy gaze still fixed to Kumysov’s eyes, and straightened his back, taking his hands off the Chief Secretary’s desk. “No, Sire. I ask forgiveness and assure you that this will not happen again.” The young officer’s eyes finally concentrated elsewhere as he tried to relax. After all, while he fought and died that rear rat sat cosily behind the lines and was, thus, not worthy of the anger of a warrior. Kumysov sighed and shook his head. “This is your last warning, Poruchik. After that, I am sure that the post of Federal Overseer to Stribog will fit you nicely. Dismissed.”

Ithun saluted his superior and went out of his office, quickly taking the direction of Miloliudov’s, entering it and slamming the door behind him. Vladimir looked up at the fireball of anger and shook his head, sighing tiredly. “I already know the details, Ithun. Take a seat.” The Poruchik did as he was told, and bit his lower lip in anger. “Sire…” Miloliudov made a dismissive gesture with his hand, cutting Ithun in his speech and spoke himself. “Ithun, I hope you made her understand that such escapades, although thrilling, are not the best for the both of you in the current situation.” Ithun only nodded, still trying to cope with his irritation, while Vladimir sighed and shook his head, smiling. “Do not worry, I am rather optimistic about the future.” Ithun looked up at the General known for his rather realistic views of the world, the same man who never allowed himself to make any prognostics without being able to back them was now being ‘optimistic’. Miloliudov caught the lieutenant’s gaze and smiled.

“I will tell you on an other day, Ithun. Now, I think I know what makes you angry…”

“He threatened to send me to Stribog! That… that… rear rat thinks he can threaten me just like that! After…”

“After all you have been through? After your heroism at battle? Tell me, Ithun, do you know that while you were sitting up there in the mountains, Kumysov was the one who evacuated a hundred million civilians from Illuthid? He may be a rear rat, Ithun, but he is a hero, for he went against what he was told to do and concentrated on saving people instead of making up reports on the amounts of ammunition left in the depots. It is a pity that this country values those who fight and forget all about those who make it possible for the warriors to fight!” Miloliudov shook his head and looked up at the young officer, who was clearly getting more and more confused on the matter. “Do you know that while he managed to save millions of souls he lost both sons in Aphyr? They fell at Srebrograd, they were parachutists, just as you. Their families died because of the Plague. If there is somebody who suffered during that war, Ithun, it is Ivan. His wife died soon after the conflict ended, unable to continue after such a tragedy. He lost his wife, Ithun, his sons, his grandchildren. I know you have lost many friends, Ithun, and that is terrible. But you still have your parents, your sister, your nephew and niece. You have your family, something that Ivan lost.”

Ithun sighed deeply, clearly ashamed of his earlier feelings, shaking his head. “I am sorry… I did not know…” Vladimir smiled in a fatherly sort of way. “You are young, Ithun. But you will soon learn to understand that life is not about fighting and killing. It is about surviving… But I think you have work to do.” Ithun stood up, saluted his superior and went of the office, taking direction of his own, the words Miloliudov said haunting his mind. Lieutenant Khat sat by his desk, his gaze fixing the emptiness, and he tried to imagine what his life would be if his parents and his family were dead… what if Lina was not there… Would he become the like of Kumysov? Or have the courage to shoot himself? He could not find the answer…

Days changed into day, turned into days, flowed into days as days passed by. Days, days, days. All the same. Grey, ugly, stagnating, routine. Ithun did not know what to do; the frustration that he felt as he realized that he was not in power to change things was simply unbearable. It has been months since he last saw Lina. It has been months that he had to resign himself to messages and phone calls. On random days, on holidays, on New Year. He could not even spend the New Year with her, for he felt Kumysov’s breath on his neck everywhere he went, no matter what he did. He had to retire from participating in some of his earlier arrangements, only exchanging several words with Miloliudov from time to time on it (in a manner than nobody knew what they were talking about, of course).

The Private Security Company, funded jointly by Duke Orlov and Leib-duke Tal-Nash expanded rapidly, quickly taking over the leading places in providing security to privates. They were guarding the houses of nobles, rich businessmen, they were even hired by some municipal authorities to help provide security. All in all, everything was fine, until several days ago the headquarters of the PSC was raided by the Tax police. What happened afterwards was easily guessed – managers arrested for fiscal fraud and tax evasion, the company’s assets in some of the banks frozen (the others, profiting from the sacred banking secret, refused to abide by the Federal orders). Somehow, the Kaskad found out about everything and was conducting an effective campaign of eliminating the rebellion before it began. Members of the PSC were arrested, the Kaskad somehow found out about Lazarevic’s participation and took him into custody. And now, Miloliudov did not show up.

Somebody knocked on the door of his office, a knock that broke the silence that seemed to have subdued the entire building. Ithun said the usual “Come in!” without even caring for who would enter. The door opened and two men in civilian outfits entered the office, smiling friendly. “Poruchik Khat?” The asked in a friendly manner, but that made Ithun suddenly feel as if threatened.

“Yes, that is me. And who might you be?”

The two men took their identity cards out and the one that spoke earlier smiled again. In fact, he was the one doing the talking, the other character behind him just keeping silent. Ithun sighed as he read what was on the IDs. In fact, he suspected nothing else.

“Kaskad, third directorate. Do you mind if we ask you some questions, Sir?”

“No, of course not.” Ithun put a most charming of smiles on his face. “Pray, be seated.”

“Thank you, Sir.” The man said as the two sat down into chairs, facing the young officer. “Tell me, Sir, do you know where General Miloliudov might be?”

“I do not have the slightest idea, to tell the truth.”

The Kaskad officer sighed and reached into a pocket of his jacket, taking out several photographs. He put them on the table in front of Ithun and looked at the lieutenant again. “Do you recognize the man on these photos?” Ithun’s answer got stuck in his throat as he recognized the man. It was Miloliudov, pale, clearly dead, with blood running from his temple. “This is General Miloliudov Vladimir.”

“Indeed it is. Tell me, Sir, do you know why would the respected officer want to commit suicide?”

Ithun shook his head and sighed. “I do not know… maybe you could tell me?”

“Unfortunately, we are still investigating the matter and have not yet come to a conclusion.”

“When did this happen?”

“Early morning, today.” The Kaskad officer said, fixing Ithun attentively with his eyes and noting every single change in the young man’s attitude. However, the young man knew how to keep his calm and, although there were clearly some reactions to what was going on, overall he was calm as a rock. “Tell me, Sir, do you know anything about the Private Security Company?”

“Of course. Everybody knows about them. They provide efficient security at reasonable prices, they say.” Ithun chuckled and smiled at the Kaskad officers as both of them nodded.

“Indeed, Sir. Do you know how General Miloliudov might have been connected to it?”

“No idea. But the General did know quite a few retired army servicemen and women, so he could recommend the personnel to the PSC.”

“Interesting… do you know General Lazarevic?”

“Of course I do! What Airborne trooper wouldn’t know Lazarevic?” Ithun shook his head and sighed. Lying was of no use in the current situation. He had to tell the truth, partially, of course, but still the truth.

“Same question as before then.”

“Don’t know. Same thing? You know, there are myriads of high ranked officers that have, for ages, supplied various private security companies with personnel. That dates back to the Grand Duchy.”

“Of course…” The two Kaskad men looked at each other as if consulting what to do with the Lieutenant. Silence befell on the room, it only lasted several seconds, but for Ithun it was an eternity. Finally, the two stood up and, inclining their heads slightly in respect, thanked the officer for his cooperation.

“I serve the Motherland.” Ithun said with a smile as he saw the two Kaskad officers off. He could not believe that they did not take him away, that it all ended so well. But his face and actions showed no emotion as he realized quite clearly that he could be watched at any moment in his office. He stretched slightly and went to the window, looking outside, thinking about what he just heard. It was obvious that somebody helped Miloliudov commit suicide and he was sure that the Kaskad was the one to blame. Whatever it was, it was clear then that their little plot collapsed in the most miserable and humiliating of ways. It would, thus, have seemed that nothing would change. He sighed again as he watched the snow fall on the now white city…

Tartarian Embassy, Capital City of Vigvar

Barely hearing the knock on the partially opened door, Angelina was startled as it swung open. Lowering her paperwork, she stared as the gap grew wider, and then sighed with relief when she saw the familiar face of Keith peeking in. She gave him a pleasant smile, as he entered the room.

“I just came to say goodnight, and make sure everything was alright.” Keith looked at her questioningly, as he neared the desk, seeing the remnants of her shock still on her face. “I didn’t mean to startle you.”

Angelina shook her head and laughed lightly, trying to lighten the moment and forget her own stupidity. “It’s a jumpy time at the moment.” She leant forward and placed the file she was reading on the desk in front of her. “I don’t know what I’m expecting to happen, but it doesn’t feel good, whatever it is.” Leaning back, she relaxed in the chair. “I’m just letting myself get overly concerned.”

“It’s understandable.” Keith reached the desk, and looked down at his boss, knowing more than anyone what it was that was bothering her. “How long has it been?”

Frowning slightly, she gave him a wry smile. “Too long.” Her thoughts instantly brought to mind images of Ithun from the last time she had seen him, the night she had sneaked out of the embassy to see him. “Weeks, months…a lifetime it feels like.”

Keith shook his head, and then smiled brightly. “This will be over soon.”

“Will it?” Angelina’s voice rose incredulously. “Someone else said something similar a few months ago.”

Moving around the desk, Keith stopped beside Angelina’s chair, and swung it around until she was facing where he stood. He took hold of her hand, and pulled her gently out of her seat. “Come on, time to go home.”

“But I have too much to do…” She complained, while giving little resistance to his actions.

Keith laughed. “We can catch up in the morning. You need a drink and an early night. You’ll feel better tomorrow.”

Shaking her head, Angelina smiled. “You might be right. Goodnight, Keith.”

“Goodnight, Ambassador.” He returned her smile, as he turned and made his way out of the door. Her eyes followed him out, until he disappeared from view.

Putting her work in the drawer, and locking it, Angelina gathered up her belongings and made her way to her house, looking forward to relaxing the evening away with a warm bath, a bottle of wine and a good film, while snuggled up under the duvet.


Ms Ormond’s Residence, 7 Orlov Street, Capital City of Vigvar

Finally entering her home, Angelina closed the door, shutting the world outside. She walked quickly into the living room, throwing her bag and jacket onto the couch. Moving over to the window, she stared out onto the garden, wondering how somewhere could look so peaceful with the crisis happening around it. She pulled open the window, and listened to the sounds of firing that seemed to constantly fill the air.

As she stood watching the growing darkness outside, her thoughts turned once more to the man who held her love, wondering as she always did what he was doing and whether he was alright. Their contact had been scarce over the last few months, barely more than the odd email if they were lucky. She knew that it was a dangerous time for all of them, but that did not help the intense feeling of emptiness she felt being away from him for so long.

Sighing heavily, as she tried to clear her mind of thoughts that would only make her miserable, she moved back into the room, pausing briefly by the television to turn it on, losing the sound of battle with the newsreaders voice, which was much more warming. Leaving the man to talk to the room, she stepped through to the kitchen, heading for the freezer, where she pulled rummaged around before pulling out a ready meal of some kind, and tossed it into the microwave.

Letting the clock take care of the cooking, she moved over to the fridge and pulled out a bottle of wine, half empty from the night before. She shook her head sadly, wondering why her days seemed to be filled with such monotony. Barely had this thought cleared her mind, when she heard the shattering of glass nearby.

Not stopping to think what it could be, she stepped back into the hallway, moving quickly into the reception room at the front of the house, one that she rarely used on a day to day basis. She opened the door carefully, and looked towards the window. There in the middle of one of the panes was a gapping hole. Frowning, and not at all happy, she moved closer to where the damage was, moaning silently at what she was going to do with those kids when she got hold of them.

Looking at the floor, she cast her gaze around for evidence of what had been thrown, when suddenly another pane smashed into pieces, this time the reason could not be mistaken, as the sound of gunfire filled the street further down the road. Ducking down, realising the danger she was in with the stray bullets entering the room, she moved carefully yet quickly out of the room, heading for the back of the house. Outside she could hear the shouts of her security personnel.

Kashtarkhir Palace

“The Ruling Councilors have gathered, Sir. They are expecting you.” The NGF trooper said as she looked at the identity cards of those sitting in car. The car itself was at a checkpoint at the entry to the courtyard of the Kashtarkhir Palace, from which the Ruling Council had been ruling over the Federation for already half a dozen years. The barrier went up, letting the vehicle into the courtyard. It rode to take position by the entrance, passing by several NGF soldiers that were following the car with the visors of their helmets.

The car stopped at a parking lot not far from the entrance and three came out of it: High Secretary for Foreign Relations Khat Ithun and two of his aides. Yes, somehow, lieutenant Khat, the black sheep of the Foreign Relations Secretariat, managed to get the rank of High Secretary after the death of his boss. He regretted not having been named Chief Secretary, but then again, life was not a fairy tale and it was never really fair. And the most blatant example of the latter was the fact that NGF soldiers were guarding the Palace. It would have been such a cakewalk if it would still have been guarded by the 1st Airborne, but the Ruling Council trusted nobody except artificially bred killing machines that had loyalty hammered into their DNA codes.

New Generation Forces, a project that hailed to them from the Grand Duchy, that the Ruling Council had no fear to resurrect following the Plague, to create a private little army for their own selves. A four hundred thousand men strong private little army, well equipped and ready to fight, more than enough to plunge the country into an other civil war. That is why Ithun’s new ‘unofficial’ chief wanted the two surviving Ruling Councilors alive, but for that they had to be smuggled out of the Palace first, not an easy thing to do considering that Ustinov could get the idea to play hero while lieutenant Khat and his men had strict orders to deliver both Councilors alive and completely unharmed. Which meant that the NGF troops had to go, and there was only one way to do so…

By the massive doors that let into the entry hall of the palace they were hailed by two other guards, with portable scanners in their hands, with which they checked the three officers for weapons, finding none. And indeed, Ithun and his friends had no weapons, for the weapons were already inside, as were the other members of the conspiracy, all of them members of the Palace staff or of the Secretariats loyal to the one who was leading the game behind the curtains. He would soon reveal himself to broad day light, but had to remain in shadows for the time being.

Once the weapons were retrieved from the hiding place within the Palace (the weapons being silenced handguns, other weapons would have to be retrieved from elsewhere), Ithun and the two of his men moved out in the direction of a guard room nearby. Several other groups of conspirators were charged with securing the other similar installations throughout the Palace. And as they were doing that, elements of the 1st Airborne and of other loyal army and police units would quietly take over the streets of the Capital City.

They had to hold out the night, for in the morning everything would explode to broad day light, something that would allow them to take the country over without further bloodshed. They did not doubt that most would join their ranks, but it was their duty as Taraskovyans to avoid an other civil war, so soon after one that claimed so many lives.

He heard that the White Legion might somehow have found out and would try to counter them, but he did not care for what was going outside of the Palace he was in. He did care only for one thing, to which he saw in advance. He had everything ready. There could be no mistake. Failure was not an option. And as the cameras at the reinforced door that led to the guard room fixed on Ithun, he was calm and sure of himself and he smiled as he heard a voice over the loudspeakers: “You require something, Sir?”

Ms Ormond’s Residence, 7 Orlov Street, Capital City of Vigvar

Walking quickly back into the living room, Angelina shut the door behind her, hoping that not being able to see or hear what was going on outside would make her feel better. She shook her head, wondering what she had done to be caught in the middle of a battlefield. Grabbing her bag from the couch, she scrambled the contents as she searched for her phone, before throwing the bag back down as it began clear she had left it back at the embassy.

Moving over to the landline, she picked up the receiver, her finger banging out a number on the keypad, before she realised she had no dialling tone. “What the…?” She slammed the phone down, and muttered under her brief, the words getting stronger as her anger and worry flared. “Damn it!”

She picked up her bag, and flung it on her shoulder as she grabbed her jacket and headed back to the door, knowing that if she wanted to get any information she would have to get back to the embassy and find out what was going on. Pulling open the door, she listened for a moment to see if any more stray bullets had found their way through her window. Hearing silence, something that unnerved her more than the sound of gunfire had, she made her way slowly down the corridor.

Reaching the front door, she stopped for a moment, searching frantically for her keys. Suddenly, she heard a commotion coming from the location she had just left. She took a step in the direction of the living room, before almost jumping as a loud knock came from the door, sounding very urgent. Standing still for a moment, not sure which do deal with first, before turning towards the door, deciding it must be her personnel checking if she was alright.

She placed her hand on the handle, and looked out of the peephole, seeing nothing, which did not make her feel any better about the situation. She turned the lock, and carefully opened the door, her heart stopping as her gave fell not on one of her security detail, but on a man, obviously a soldier, with a blue ribbon tied around his arm.

“What do you want…?” She fell silent as she saw several of her people lying on the ground behind the soldier, while others milled around beside the fallen men.

Taking his helmet off, the stranger looked at her, his eyes showing no emotion. “Ambassador Ormond, you are to come with us.” His voice told her that he would not take kindly to her refusing.

Kashtarkhir Palace, Capital City of Vigvar

As the door slid open, Ithun raised his arms, quickly extracting a small knife from his left sleeve, and slid the throat of the NGF soldier. Indeed, a helmet is quite useful in saving a life, but unfortunately for them, the guards had their helmets off. Ithun and his men had the major advantage that was surprise, but it would only last mere seconds. The lieutenant caught the falling body with his right arm just as he took out the silenced handgun out with his left one, sending several bullets in the direction of the guard that was sitting by the control panel, dangerously close to one of the ‘ALARM’ triggers.

Two down, as much to go and the living ones were not ready to give up. One of them had already seized his handgun and opened fire at Ithun, most of the bullets slapping into the dead NGF soldier lieutenant Khat was using for shield, but one of the bullets did reach living flesh, making a deep scratch in Ithun’s shoulder, who profited from the occasion to drop on the floor, opening the line of fire to his men who awaited nothing else to finish off the surviving guards.

One of the conspirators helped Ithun take the rather heavy corpse, in combat armour, off him. “Do you require medical treatment, Sir?” “No, get status on the other teams!” His heart was beating wildly now that the battle was over. Indeed, they had to act quickly and efficiently and prevent the vigils in the surveillance rooms to set off the alarms and to cut the rest of the guard garrison from eyes and ears. The lieutenant stood up, cursing in Taraskath as he glanced at his wound, for even if it was not grave, it did ache in the moment when any distraction was very, very unwelcome. But his immediate worries were dissipated as all of the teams confirmed total success. So far, the enemy was still ignorant that he was under attack, and Ithun hoped it would stay that way.

He walked up to a reinforced shelf, which he opened, smiling contentedly as he discovered several combat armours bearing NGF insignia. “Time to get dressed up, gentlemen.” He said as he began to take off his uniform. Indeed, a light Taraskovyan combat armour had to be worn over a special protective suit, resembling that of a diver, over which you attached the cuirass, plaudrons, et cetera. One could wear the ‘armour’ itself without the suit, but the latter had nice NBC-protection properties and also had special little things that helped a great deal in keeping the armoured part well attached. And the fact that the cloth was done of a thermo-adaptive material also helped. And, of course, it was part of the rules to wear a suit beneath the armour anyway and the NGF troops in the building would immediately see that something was not right, so Ithun, the two of his men, as well as the other men under Ithun’s command in various surveillance rooms throughout the building began a process that would last several minutes, but would allow them to avoid problems with the local security, at least temporarily...

Ms Ormond’s Residence, 7 Orlov Street, Capital City of Vigvar

Angelina stood for a moment, frozen to the spot, unable to speak or move as she tried to get her head around what was going on. There on her front door, was a stranger ordering her to leave her premises and go with him. Where? She had no idea, and had no intention of finding out either. Taking a step back inside, she grabbed the door and pushed it closed, unfortunately he was too quick, and the wood was stopped from filling its hole by the boot of the soldier.

“Ambassador, I must stress the importance of you coming with us, right now.” As he spoke, he pushed on the door, easily edging it open despite her weight being behind it. “This is not a request.”

Moving away from the door, so as not to be crushed behind it, Angelina stared at the soldier, her eyes wide with fear. She wanted to run, but she did not know where she would be safe. She would never make it to Ithun’s, especially looking at the way they had dealt with her guards. Backing away slowly, she edged further into the house, moving back in the direction of the living room.

“What do you want?” Her voice rose slightly, agitation and fear revealed in her tone. “I have diplomatic immunity. You can’t do this.” Her hand reached out, touching the side of the wall, feeling for the doorway as she continued to put a little distance between her and the front door.

Behind her, the door swung open. “The garden is clear.” The second man looked over at the other coming in the front door before turning her attention to Angelina. “We are ready to move out.”

Nodding his head, the first man spoke to Angelina, his voice rising with impatience. “Let’s go, Ambassador.” He indicated in the direction of the exit.

Looking between the two men, Angelina sighed resignedly, and made her way to the door, wondering what kind of mess she had gotten herself caught up in now. As she walked out of the door, she saw the soldier nod at his colleague in the house, before hearing the others steps disappear back the way they had come. Silently followed, she was accompanied to a waiting vehicle, the door already open and waiting for her. She as walked past her security, she was relieved to notice that they seemed to still be alive.

The door slammed shut as she and the soldier entered and made themselves comfortable. She stared out of the window as her residence grew smaller and eventually disappeared from view.

Kashtarkhir Palace, Capital City of Vigvar

Stairs. Corridor. Stairs again and a long corridor. Ithun knew his way around the building perfectly well, having worked there for quite some time, and so he was guiding his comrade as they hurried towards the office of Ruling Councilor Ustinov. The two were bound to be holding their little meeting in that particular cabinet, for it was the one where they risked the less. Indeed, the windows were placed in such a position as to face a wall of an other structure of the palace (which was built in a very particular fashion), so that snipers had no line of sight whatsoever. Of course, Councilor Ustinov had no other view than a plain wall several meters away from his nose, but at least it was entirely safe, for there were no windows in that same wall. There was also an antechamber, surely full with security, which they would have to worry about later.

The information they gathered from the surveillance rooms indicated that the NGF soldiers were patrolling the corridors in pairs, and so Ithun decided not to attract any attention to a particularly large security detail by taking ordering one of his men along, whilst two others would join them by Ustinov’s office. And as they entered yet an other corridor, Ithun saw an NGF patrol heading right at the two conspirators. Taking a deep breath beneath his masked helmet, the young lieutenant walked confidently by the patrol, giving a quick nod in salute to the two NGF soldiers that seemed to have taken the bait, not noticing anything strange, Ithun thanking the Seven Deities for the fact that the two NGF were not consulting the patrol plans (Taraskovyan helmets made wonders for their bearers, enabling them to do many, many things). But sooner or later, one of the NGF will surely switch to see the patrol plans, or to see through the list of his unit and, upon noticing several names in black, he would sound the alarm, something that Ithun and his friends did not need.

The conspirators had to be quick and swift, for each second they wasted could cost them their lives, but also to their comrades, not to mention that it would jeopardize the general plan as laid out by their ‘boss’. Of course, there was a Plan B, and loyal soldiers from the 1st Airborne Division had already stealthily taken position around the building to storm it if the operation of arresting the two Ruling Councilors went wrong. But Ithun would not fail, for he had no right to fail. They rushed up some stairs, to fall on another patrol in a corridor that was leading straight to Ustinov’s office. Yet again, the two conspirators in combat armours with NGF signs walked calmly past the two real Next Generation Forces soldiers. Ithun could swear that his heartbeat could be heard from the outside, for, as much as he tried to relax, he could not help to be anxious due to the responsibility that was weighing on his shoulders. But everything went fine again as the two NGF nodded in greeting and passed their way. Ithun sighed in relief and thought the worst behind just as he heard a voice in his helmet. It was not an inner voice, it was not one of his friends, but it was the voice of one of the NGF soldiers that just crossed his path.

“Identify yourself!”

Ithun’s blood froze as he turned slowly around, the visor of his helmet hiding his face from his opponents. Somehow, now the officer was very calm, for at that very moment he was faced with a clear threat, and he at least knew where to strike and how to strike. He looked at the two NGF, who had already reached for their handguns, leaving their assault rifles alone, and pointed their pistols on the ground, on a spot between them and the two conspirators, as the visors of the guards’ helmets were clearly directed at Ithun and his colleague. One thing was certain is that should one of the two conspirators move a muscle, the two handguns would dart up and decorate the imposters with a generous array of bullets.

“Efreytor Demidov, 5th Company.”

Ithun recited the name and rank of one of the men he killed not so long ago, giving the unit that was indicated on the armour of the dead man. Silence befell for a second before, suddenly, several silenced shots were heard and the two guards fell abruptly on the floor as blood flowed through holes in their helmets, quite clearly caused by bullets. Ithun sighed with relief as he opened the visor of his helmet looking at the two new actors on the scene, the two newcomers doing the same.

“You arrive just on time!”

“Thank you, Sir. Shall we?”

Ithun nodded, closing the visor again. He was reluctant to use the intercoms, for he could be rather easily traced or listened to by those whose attention he least desired. And so, having dragged the bodies into one of the side rooms (the blood on the floor still leaving a rather visible mark of their passage, but yet not as visible as two bodies lying around in the open), the four conspirators literally rushed towards the doors of the Ruling Councilor’s office. Ithun knocked on the door and, having no answer, stepped inside the antechamber, plunged into complete darkness. However, he could clearly distinguish light coming from the keyhole of the oak door leading into the cabinet of the Councilor. Ithun motioned to his men to follow him, the four preparing their weapons, and knocked on the oak door.

The Streets of Vigvar

Having nothing to do other than sit back and watch as things panned out, Angelina gazed out of the window, trying to keep herself calm. Not knowing what this was about worried her more than she would want anyone to know. She had not expected to have been forced out of her house. Deep down she wondered if this had something to do with her relationship with Ithun. The last thing she wanted was to be used as some pawn in a power game.

Watching now familiar sights rush passed, Angelina mentally noted the direction they were heading, knowing only one place that would need this route to reach, and she could not think of any reason why she would be taken there, unless things had gotten a lot worse than she knew. It was times like this that she wished she listened to others advice. Once she found out who had ordered this treatment of her she would give them a piece of her mind.

She turned her attention to the man seated beside her. He had not said a single word to her during the drive, and this made her oddly uncomfortable. “What is this about? What have I done?” Her voice remained strangely calm despite her fear. “You know, taking me from my home is going to cause a great deal of trouble when news of this reaches Tartarus.”

The soldier kept his eyes forward, watching out of the front window, down their road ahead. “Everything will become clear in time.” He once more fell silent, indicating that she would be wasting her breath to continue.

The rest of the journey was completed in silence, other than the odd sound of life in the street outside the vehicle. Finally the car pulled off the road, through the entrance to one of the most famous locations in Tarasovka.

Angelina’s eyes grew wide as she turned her attention to the front of the car, gazing up at the sight before them, seeing the distant building grow slowly bigger as they made their way through the Great Gardens. Her attention flickered to the scenes around her, as she wondered again just what this was all about. She turned to ask her capture another question, but the expression on his face killed the words before they formed on her lips.

Moments later, the vehicle pulled to a halt outside the Winter Palace. The door beside her swung open, indicating for her to get out of the car. Exiting slowly, she stood beside the car, her eyes taking in her surroundings. Before she had time to utter a word, the soldier, who seemed to be in charge of the operation, pointed towards the door. Glaring at him briefly, she turned and headed in the direction indicated.

Kashtarkhir Palace, Capital City of Vigvar

“What is it?”

The roaring, thunder like voice of Ustinov could be mistaken for nothing else and Ithun sighed with relief as he became sure that at least one of the Ruling Councilors was in the expected place. And since the two were supposed to hold a meeting discussing new purges in the law enforcement, then Voevodov was to be in the room, too. Ithun nodded to one of his men to stand forward and speak, for he could not. Indeed, even if it was highly improbable, one of the Ruling Councilors could possibly recognize his voice, for he had been working in the Secretariat for quite some time, whilst his men were enrolled only recently. And so one of the conspirators, having raised the visor of his helmet so that his voice sounded clearly, approached the door to speak out.

“Sir! We have received reports of mutiny among the units stationed in Vigvar. Some of them are reportedly heading this way. For your security, we would like to escort you out of the building.”

A moment of silence, that appeared to have lasted an eternity for the conspirators, befell on the antechamber before Voevodov’s voice broke it.

“And who do we have the honour of speaking to?”

Ithun groaned with anger as he gave a clear order with his arm to proceed to ‘Plan B’. One of the troops immediately placed some sort of small box on the lock of the door as the four put themselves against the wall, some distance away from the door. The door could have been open, in which case the entire procedure was useless, but if it came out to have been closed than the two Councilors would have gotten even more suspicious if their own guards made an attempt to break in. And so the conspirators had to act in a rush.

A deaf explosion shook the door, hitting out the locks out of the centuries old oak door. Ithun immediately kicked it open with his foot, rushing in, followed by his men as they pointed their guns at the astonished Ruling Councilors. Ustinov tried to reach for the table he was sitting by, but a bullet into the back of his armchair, mere centimeters away from his shoulder, calmed the Councilor’s resolve.

“What does this mean?” Ustinov said as his eyes narrowed, anger evident on his face. Voevodov’s reaction was much more composed, as his phlegmatic face revealed no particular emotion.

“In the name of the Grand Duchy, you are under arrest!” Ithun said as his words were met with laughter from the two Councilors, Ustinov shaking his head and asking with a broad smile. “Is this some kind of joke? April fools passed several weeks ago!”

And yet, their laugh faded away as the four men continued to point their weapons silently at the Ruling Councilors, their head repeating his words.

“In the name of the Grand Duchy, you are under arrest. Please follow us without any resistance, for we have orders to use force if necessary.”

The two Councilors looked at each other, beginning to understand that the situation was serious. Ustinov sighed as he stood up, muttering something that sounded like “I will make the bitch pay.” Ithun only grinned behind the mask of his helmet, for the Councilor was up to a surprise. Indeed, the four conspirators were not following the orders of one Ustinov was clearly referring to. The two Councilors went out of the room, escorted by Ithun and his men in a way to make it seem as if they were forming a protective escort around VIPs. Luck was clearly with them, for they had no problems reaching the parking behind the Palace, the NGF guards only saluting to the two Ruling Councilors, who behaved well, with Ustinov not showing any readiness to play a hero. Ithun and one of his men, as well as the two Councilors, got into a car, which was already occupied by two other conspirators. The others had already taken position in other vehicles, the convoy leaving the backyard of the Palace, passing the gates safely. Ithun sighed with relief under his mask as he knew them out of danger. The NGF did suspect something for several of them made a couple meters running and waving hands calling for the convoy to stop, before taking their assault rifles and aiming at the vehicles. But they did not open fire; after all, they could not open fire at the convoy of the Ruling Council.

The two Ruling Councilors remained silent and grim as the vehicles sped through the streets of Vigvar, clearly heading for the Winter Palace, a fact that the two men noticed soon enough. Maybe they were already thinking of what Fate had prepared for them, or thought about how to get out of the mess, or of other things. Ithun, for his part, thought about getting to the Winter Palace as soon as he could to get rid of the ‘cargo’ and to finally meet with somebody he had not seen for so long… And so he smiled happily as their vehicle passed the gates of the Winter Palace, taking the road through the Great Gardens, crossed from time to time by vehicles of the leib-Guards heading in the direction of the city.

The Winter Palace, Capital City of Vigvar

As she made her way a short distance down the corridor, Angelina watched the approach of a young woman, a smile on her face as she greeted the group. It was obvious from her attire that she was a member of the domestic staff, and this made Angelina feel a little more relaxed, as it reminded her of normality, and not this farce that she seemed to have become caught up in.

The woman looked her over and pointed further down the corridor. “If you’ll come this way.” She briefly cast her eyes in the direction of the soldiers, who seemed to acknowledge that their role had ended, and gratefully passed their charge into the hands of the new arrival.

Her own gaze paused on the man who had brought her here, and knew that she would not stand much of a chance of getting out, even if she could lose the maid. Giving up the idea, she followed silently looking around her at the ornamentation that made up the décor of the interior. Several times she wanted to stop to give a piece of artwork a closer look, but every time she slowed down, she received a stern look and a cough from her companion.

Several minutes later, they reached an open door, and Angelina was bidden to enter and make herself comfortable. As she walked into the room, she was greeted by a small room, containing a table, chairs, a sofa and a couple of bookshelves. It looked to Angelina like a private sitting room, for more intimate chats. She felt grateful she had not walked into some kind of interrogation room.

“Please take a seat.” The voice of the woman broke the momentary silence. “Can I get you some refreshments?”

Whatever Angelina had been expecting, it had not been that. She shook her head, as she tried to come to terms with just what was going on here. As the woman moved away, the Ambassador turned. “Actually, could I have a coffee?” She gave the woman a smile, who gave her a nod in return then left, pulling the door closed behind her.

Knowing there was little else for her to do, Angelina wasted a couple of minutes checking out her surroundings, before moving over to the bookshelf and running her eyes over the titles. Giving up on that endeavour, she walked over to a chair and sat herself down, waiting for whatever was going to happen next to reveal itself.

Vigvar Winter Palace

Eventually, the convoy came to a stop in front of the main entrance of the Palace. Ithun came out of the car first and surveyed his surroundings. The rather impressive courtyard in front of the entrance was nearly empty, except for several leib-Guards on duty, with their loyal black wolves near them. Whilst other army and police units used trained dogs, the Alexander Guard was blessed with the privilege of working with black wolves, proud and ferocious beasts, loyal to their friends, but who showed no mercy to their ennemies. The animals had no leashes and, should the order be given, they would charge their foes on the spot, without losing time.

Other men under Ithun's command got out of their vehicles, escorting the Ruling Councillors towards the doors of the building. Ustinov glanced at the leib-Guards, frowning with regret. "Too bad they did not starve to death!" Voevodov only smirked at his colleague's remark as the two vanished inside of the building, followed closely by the ever vigilant lieutenant Khat. The group proceeded through the Nikolay Hall, named after the famous Grand Duke, which served as entry hall into the Palace. Spanning over an impressive surface and over several floors, the hall features galleries, stairs, side entrances and a tremendous amount of works of art on every single step. However, the group was not doing a museum visit, and so the men proceeded through the hall and into a corridor. It took them several minutes to finally arrive at their destination, a small hall used for conferences, complete with a table in form of crescent, an already seated "guest" and several leib-Guards positioned around the room.

Ithun saluted an officer of the Alexander Guard charged with making sure no harm came to the guests until they were all gathered, and invited the Ruling Councillors to get seated, which they did, clearly waiting for what was to happen to them next. Ustinov glared at the guest who was already present in the chamber, a woman with a proud and haughty look on her face and coal black hair falling behind clearly pointy ears. Having passed the responsibility over to the local "authority", Ithun went out of the room, leaving politics behind.

"You are dismissed for the night, gentlemen." He said to his men, who nodded in return and directed themselves out of the Palace, following the same route they took to reach the conference hall. Ithun sighed contently, knowing his tasks for the night over, and concentrated on what non-political tasks awaited him ahead.

"Do you anything about a squad of parachutists that should have delivered a woman to here?" He asked a leib-Guard who was passing by, the guard stopping for a moment, remaining silent to the world outside of his helmet as he contacted the command asking for information, nodding to Ithun as he received what he wanted.

"Yes. You are Poruchik Khat?" the guard asked, raising the visor of his helmet to look at the Airborne officer, the latter nodding in return.

"I have asked a Palace maid to guide you to the room. She should be here any moment."

Ithun thanked the soldier, the latter nodding in return, and waited for his guide, who arrived several minutes later, inviting him to follow her. And as he walked through the darkened corridors, his heart beat became irregular as he felt nervous. After all, they he had not seen her for nearly half a year, maybe she had already moved on and he would just be greeted with an angry monologue about his irresponsible and adventurist behaviour in kidnapping young ladies from their houses. And yet, somehow, he knew that nothing was over…

How long she had been in the room, Angelina had no idea. All she did know that during her time, the maid had arrived with her coffee and had brought a couple of biscuits, which she did not know was a good sign or not. Giving up trying to work out what was going on any more, she sat down on one of the chairs, sure that sooner or later someone would come and explain the situation to her. She resigned herself to a bit of a wait, and slowly sipped her coffee and nibbled on the snacks.

Replacing the cup on the table before her, Angelina once more let her eyes move about the room. She had always been fascinated with the Winter Palace since she first saw it, and had often thought how she would like to see inside. Of course, being dragged there in the night was not how she had envisaged the occasion. She stood up from the chair, and once more began to pace around the room.

Behind her the door clicked, and pushed open. Turning, she looked into the familiar ‘face’ of a helmeted guard. Sighing audibly, Angelina suddenly became a little concerned, once more wondering what was going to happen next. “What the hell is this all about? You cannot hold me like this?” She practically shouted at the new arrival, her anger rising.

He sighed in relief as he saw her in the room, his relief quickly transforming into surprise as he blinked behind the visor of his helmet that was concealing his face from the outside world. He realized that Angelina must have taken him for one of the parachutists that took her to the Palace, due to the armours being the same, with insignia indicating the branch of the armed forces, the unit, et cetera.

“Don’t worry, it’s me!” Ithun said, his voice escaping through the speakers in the chin of his helmet clearly transformed to the point that she would have hardly recognized it. Obviously, that could only confuse her even more and so he brought his hands to his neck, undoing some safety locks, and slid the helmet off his head, taking a deep breath of fresh air as he smiled up at her, happiness and joy clearly indicated on his face and in his eyes. “It is me, Lina.”

Staring, she looked at his face as it was revealed to her, for a moment not realising who it was until her senses finally caught up with her. “Ithun?” She frowned as she tried to get her head around the situation. “What are you doing here?” Her confusion was not getting any clearer. “What am I doing her? What the hell is going on?”

He came up to her, slowly, until he was a mere step away. He took her hand into his, smiling and shaking his head, understanding well enough her state of mind after such a series of events. “I have asked for you to be evacuated here after I learned that combats had erupted in your vicinity.” He sighed as he brought her hand up, kissing her fingers gently before smiling at her again.

She snatched her hand away from his grasp, her eyes blazing with hardly concealed anger. “And you could not have told me this? You had those men come into my home and force me to come here.” Taking a step back, she turned and walked to the other side of the room, before once more fixing her eyes to his face. “I didn’t know what was happening. Damn it, Ithun, I thought they were going to kill me.” The pain of the memory brought tears to her eyes.

He sighed sadly, biting his lower lip, knowing all too well that she was right, that he should have found a way to warn her, that it was his fault. He shook his head as she stood still, not sure what to say, until he looked up at her. “Lina… we had to act in a rush. When I learned that combats had erupted in your vicinity, I asked one of our commanders to get a squad to evacuate you to safety. They had no time to explain. By the Gods, the same soldiers who were escorting you did not even know the reasons, they were acting on a clear order to get you out of there alive and unharmed and deliver you to the Palace.” He breathed deeply, as he looked into her eyes again. “I am sorry I did not warn you. I would have, if I could.”

Taking several breaths, her hand absentmindedly brushed over her eyes, her fingers removing the tears before they fell. “I was afraid, Ithun. If I had known…” She walked back over to him, her eyes never leaving his. She stopped in front of him, her hand rising to his face, caressing his cheek. “I can’t believe you are here,” she whispered softly as her fingers moved to his lips. A smile appeared, her eyes no longer looking so pained, as a faint twinkle grew. “It’s been so long.” Her eyes moved down his face, familiarising herself with features she thought she would never see again. “I’ve missed you.”

He took his gauntlets off, tossing them on the nearby chair before raising one of his hands up to take hers into it, feeling the warmth of her touch as his other hand placed itself on her waist. He pulled her closer as his hand slid from her side to her back. “It has been too long, Lina. Way too long,” he said as he leaned in to claim her lips in a passionate and tender kiss, being attentive not to crush her against the breastplate of his armour as he pressed her against himself.

As her lips touched his, it was as if all the intervening months had disappeared, taking her back to the last time they had been together. Her arms wrapped around him, struggling around his armour, but not letting it get in the way. Her lips parted from his, as she stood happily in his embrace gazing into his eyes. “I love you.” She smiled, the last few hours totally forgotten.

“I love you.” He echoed her words with his own, not finding anything else to say as he looked into her eyes for a moment before taking one of her hands into his and walking over to the couch. He sat down, pulling her down on his lap, wrapping his arms around her as he kissed her cheek, the tip of her nose, her forehead, remembering the taste of her skin, having done the same for her lips only moments ago.

Having showered her with enough kisses, he sighed happily as he looked her into the eyes, his eyes burning with joy and love like a wild fire through a dry forest. “The wait is over, Lina. No more hiding, no more obstacles, nothing to keep us apart.”

Getting comfortable, Angelina turned to Ithun and looked at him, confusion once more etched into her features. “I don’t want to be the Bringer of Doom and Bad News, but have you looked outside recently.” She shook her head. “Nothing has changed, Ithun. The fact that I am here at your request, for my safety, only confirms that.”

He smiled at her, somewhat amused by her words, for he knew something that she did not. “Then how do you explain that you are sitting on the lap of a, technically, administrative servant clad into full combat apparel right in the middle of the Winter Palace which was sealed off from the outside world for six years, with the Federal troops blockading all exits?” He sighed as he smiled at her again. “So far, it has been the Legion versus the Ruling Council. This night, the third player made his move.”

“I don’t know what is happening any more, if I even knew to begin with.” She smiled sadly. “I feel like I’ve woken in the middle of a movie, unsure of how it all began and now have no idea how much is left before we reach the conclusion.” A sigh escaped her lips. “But I am glad that I am in it, just to be here with you. I just wish I knew what this was all about.”

“It is about me, actually,” a voice said as the door into the room opened and a figure clad into a dark blue parade uniform entered. It was a man, rather tall, with black hair and brown eyes that fixed the couple with a mix of amusement and curiosity. Ithun stared at the man for a second, clearly a little confused, until the man nodded lightly, smiling. “It is alright, Poruchik, no need to salute.”

Turning at the sound of the door, Angelina stared at the man who entered, his voice echoing through her head. Her gaze travelled the length of his body, lingering on his face, which seemed familiar and yet different. She frowned as she tried to put a name to him, her eyes widening as it finally dawned on her. Her eyes flicked quickly between Ithun and the man, as she stood suddenly. “Grand Duke Mikhail…?” Her brow creased even more, as she tried to come to terms with this revelation. “Aren't you supposed to be dead?”

Ithun grinned broadly as his lover darted off from his lap, clearly taken aback by the sudden appearance of the officially dead Grand Duke. In fact, the lieutenant did not expect his ruler to show up, for he was supposed to be busy proving to the various bickering fools who was the true Supreme Lord and Ruler of the nation.

The Grand Duke, in the meantime, nodded to Angelina, a smile on his face. “Yes, my Lady, Grand Duke Mikhail, second by name, of Tarasovka, at your service.” He inclined his head in respect as he made several steps forward, until he stood close enough to Angelina to take her hand and kiss it in a ceremonial way in sign of greeting, after which he smiled at her again. “Do I seem as a dead one to you?”

Angelina continued to stare for a moment then slowly shook her head. “No, you do not.” A smile slowly spread over her lips, before it quickly disappeared, as she finally came to her senses. She dropped him a curtsey, having the courtesy to blush slightly. “Please forgive my rudeness, your Highness. I forgot my manners.” Despite her words, she could not pull her eyes from his face.

The Grand Duke laughed slightly, shaking his head. “It is alright, my Lady, I would understand that you would be a little confused. Let us hope that you will not be the only one…” He said mysteriously as he looked over at Ithun, the young officer already standing straight near Angelina. “Pardon, Your Highness,” the lieutenant said, “I present you Miss Angelina Ormond, the Plenipotentiary Representative of Her Imperial Majesty Gehenna of Tartarus to our nation.”

Mikhail inclined his head in respect, smiling at the Tartarian Ambassador. “Ah, so you are a foreigner? I would have never thought, your Russian is perfect.”

Blushing a little more, Angelina smiled and turned slightly to Ithun before returning her gaze to the Grand Duke. “I have had a good tutor.” She lowered her eyes for a moment, feeling slightly uneasy at getting compliments from the man before her. Her fingers played lightly with the hem of her shirt. “And once I got started, I really got into learning it. I’m honoured that you should say so.”

Ithun wrapped an arm around Angelina’s waist, rubbing her side reassuringly as he smiled at her. The Grand Duke looked at the two and smiled before looking back at Angelina. “You can be commended for your efforts and I hope that you shall learn to wield Taraskath with the same grace as you wield Russian, my Lady.” With that, he took a seat by the table, looking at Ithun and at Angelina.

“You two can get seated. I know I should not be here as of now, but one of my guests is late for the meeting.” He said with a grin as his eyes sparkled with mischief. “And the leib-Guards reported that an unexpected guest has been brought to the Palace upon request of Poruchik Khat.” He grinned again, looking at Angelina, speaking in a tone that indicated that he was joking. “So I thought I would come over and see those who dare enter my abode without asking me.”

“I have to admit, Your Highness, that I was unable to ask your permission, as I had not planned on coming here.” Angelina looked at Ithun and smiled, her eyes brimming with mock annoyance. “I am most grateful for your patience, and I apologise for causing you to have to go out of your way on my behalf.” This evening was not turning out at all as she thought it would.

“Indeed, Your Highness, I am the one who took the initiative of bringing Miss Ormond to the Palace, for the area she lives in became dangerous. I thought the Palace would be a perfect place, for I would meet up with her after having finished escorting,” – he made a special emphasis on the last word, with a tone of irony, – “the guests under my responsibility to your meeting.”

The Grand Duke nodded again, laughing as he shook his head. “Indeed, I have heard that there were some skirmishes with the Legion. I still wonder how did they manage to find out… but that is of no importance, for very soon they will no longer be an issue.” With that, he looked back at Angelina. “Tell me, my Lady, what are your impressions of my country? Pray, be frank.”

Angelina smiled, having settled herself in the chair. “Up until recently, I have been most happy here. It is a lovely nation, not that I have managed to see as much of it as I would have liked.” She brushed a strand of hair behind her ear. “The last few months have been hard for anyone to live peacefully here, without living in fear and being taken from those one wishes to be with.” She gave Ithun a brief look, before once more returning her attention to the Grand Duke. “On the whole, I have been very honoured to call Tarasovka home.”

“You are a very wise person, my Lady.” The Grand Duke said, pensively, as his eyes looked at Angelina before looking at Ithun. “You two must be really dear to each other. And knowing the Ruling Council and those who they appointed to second them, I guess it must have been quite a trial for your relationship.”

Ithun grinned and shook his head at these words as he stood next to Angelina, leaning in to kiss the top of her head before addressing the Grand Duke. “I had the chance of falling in love with a woman who has as much courage as a Cardinian Northerner.” He knew that Angelina would possibly not understand the reference to the fiercest and bravest species of the Taraskovyan Black Wolves, but the Grand Duke understood well enough, his eyes sparkling up with amusement.

“Oh? How so? Pray, tell me. Having spent years in the dark, I welcome any bit of life that comes my way.” Mikhail said, looking at Angelina.

“I..ah…took it upon myself to venture out after curfew, which I know was more foolish than brave.” Angelina smiled at the memory. “I have, of course, learnt my lesson and have striven to be a little less reckless.” She turned her head to look at up at Ithun. “Fortunately for me, Ithun saw me safely back home.” And then we’ve not seen each other since, the thought making her smile slip.

“I see.” The Grand Duke said, laughing lightly. “Wise and brave. Rare qualities these are.” He said and paused for a moment, as if considering something, before standing up and walking to one of the book shelves, stopping in front of a locked drawer. He extracted a ring with a myriad of keys, finding the needed one in a few seconds.

He opened the drawer and took out a sheet of papers and a bundle of candles of blood-brown colour, along with a quill and a pot of ink. He went back to the table, laying the sheet on the surface. It was no ordinary paper, for it was thicker, with the Grand Ducal coat of arms in the top, had a frame made out of intricate motives.

He took the quill, dipped it into the black ink and quickly wrote something on the sheet in a perfect handwriting, ending up by imposing a generous and clearly visible signature on the bottom. Once that done, he took out a lighter, setting it alight as he put one of the sealing-wax candles above the paper, making it melt, raining down on the paper in a rain of hot wax.

Satisfied with the amount of it on the paper, Mikhail took of a signet ring he was wearing and applied it firmly on the wax, before pulling it away, leaving a clearly visible mark featuring the Grand Duke’s seal. He took the newly created document and, once the wax was dry, handed it to Angelina. On it, in Russian, was written that the bearer of the document, one Angelina Ormond, was granted with priority for audiences with the Grand Duke or any of his ministers should the bearer express the need to see the aforementioned persons urgently. “Here you go, my Lady. Take good care of it.” He said with a smile.

Angelina watched the Grand Duke’s actions, and stared at the document as he placed it in her hand. She smiled gratefully, unsure of what to say, so settled for the obvious. “Thank you, Your Highness. I am truly honoured.” She let her eyes drift once more to the parchment in her hand, her finger lightly brushing over the seal. Her gaze returned to Mikhail’s face, unable to find the words she wanted.

Ithun patted his lover on the shoulder, smiling at her proudly as the Grand Duke nodded in return to her words. “My kin is generous to friends and merciless to enemies.” Mikhail said with a smile as he looked at Ithun and Angelina for a moment before his attention was suddenly distracted by something.

He remained pensive for a moment before addressing the two again. “I have just been informed that the last of my guests is about to arrive. So I shall be taking my leave of you soon. Besides, I am sure the two of you have a lot of things to tell each other.” He said as he looked over the room, frowning with discontent as he surveyed the room. In his mind, the plan of the Palace came up as he searched for something else, finally standing up and nodding to the two. “Pray, follow me.” With that, he first put the sealing-wax, the ink, the quill back into the drawer, locking it again, before he directed himself out of the room.

And as the Grand Duke was leaving the room, Ithun extended his hand to Angelina, helping her get up on her feet. “You do know that you are first foreign dignitary to have had an audience with the Grand Duke since his return?” He smiled at her as he wrapped his arm around her back.

Slipping her arm around him, she looked into his eyes, her gaze displaying her feelings for him now that they were partially alone, or at least did not have an audience. “It is an honour.” She tilted her head, and pressed a kiss to his lips, before she turned her attention to following the Grand Duke, wondering where they were going now. “Today has turned out to be quite an eye opener, on many levels.” She grinned at Ithun. “I hope tomorrow isn’t quite as exciting.”

“We shall see tomorrow about tomorrow.” Ithun responded as he smiled at her, giving her a malicious wink as they followed the Grand Duke through the corridors of the Palace, crossing several leib-Guards from the 1st Battalion, clad into their dark blue armours, wrapped into cloaks.

One of the guards was patrolling in company of a black wolf, the huge beast that was capable of ripping a person in two beating its tail as a puppy as the Grand Duke petted it on the head before continuing with the trail.

Ithun made sure, as they walked, that Angelina was always close to him. Not that he feared for her safety any longer, but after spending months away from her, her mere presence by his side made him happy.

Finally, the Grand Duke came to a stop in front of some doors and took out his key ring again, going through the metal objects of various sizes and forms until he picked out one and opened the lock of the doors. He then pushed the doors open and invited Angelina and Ithun inside of a rather impressive room.

It was quite big, with a swimming pool in the middle of it, a good three meters in its width at least, starting several meters away from the entry doors and stretching through the length of the room. All around the pool the floor was covered with soft rugs, with piles of pillows of all sizes and forms lying in various spots of the room. The ceiling was made of glass, forming a dome above, letting the light of the stars penetrate the room and illuminating it with a particular aura. At the far end of the pool could be seen a small artificial mountain with a waterfall going down into the pool from its top, forming a perfect wall of water. Behind it, one could guess the presence of a small room, roughly three on three meters or so. And indeed, there was one, decorated with various crystals and gems on the walls and fitted with soft furs and pillows.

The Grand Duke surveyed the room, nodding approvingly and handed the key to Ithun. “Should you leave, hand the key to a guard.” With that, he turned to face Angelina, inclining his head politely. “Farewell, my Lady. I hope that is not the last time we meet.” He smiled and headed out of the room, closing the doors behind him, leaving the two alone.

Angelina stepped inside the room, her eyes flicking around her as the Grand Duke spoke, barely hearing him or noticing him as he left, other than a rather lost ‘Thank you’. She finished her survey and looked at Ithun, finally discovering that they were on their own. “Oh, where did he go?” She looked towards the doors, seeing them closed and gathering that he had left. Moving over to where he Ithun stood, she smiled at him, as she wrapped her arms around him. “I wonder what he had planned for us to do here.” Tilting her head upwards, she claimed his lips in a passionate kiss, not giving him the opportunity to answer.

He wrapped his arms around her as he kissed her with growing passion and lust, his hands running up and down on her clothes until the need to feel her skin took over and he began unbuttoning her shirt. His hands trembling out of lust, impatience and the joy of having her by his side, he somehow managed to undo all of the fastenings, sighing contentedly as he touched her bare skin.

He put his hands up to her shoulders and then down her arms, sliding her garments off her as his lips travelled down her neck to her shoulders, biting lightly as the months of staying away from her both far away and yet so close, to the point of him wanting to chase them away by having her near.

As he worked on her clothing, her fingers frantically worked on his, prying off one piece of his armour, continuing alternatively until their garments were scattered on the floor. Not shy in her state of undress, certainly not with him, she slid her hands over his body, until she finally took his hands in hers. Not saying a word, she began to pull him to one side of the pool, her goal a pile of pillows.

Walking backwards carefully, she kept her eyes fixed to his, leading him merely by instinct. Finally she felt fabric brush against her ankle, causing the smile to grow on her lips, as she leant towards him, kissing him again, as she slowly lowered them both onto the makeshift bed.

Ithun held her close to him, enjoying the warmth of her body against his as they lay down on the pillows. He travelled all over her body with his hands and lips, as if rediscovering something forgotten, feeling bliss as her body remembered his touch and responded accordingly, just as she rediscovered his own flesh as the two drifted off into the realms of pleasure caring about nothing else but each other.

Foreign Secretary’s Office, Regierung House, Erebus, Tartarus

Emma Sarie was annoyed, and that was something that rarely happened. She looked back at the communiqué in her hand and frowned, a deep crease etched into her forehead, making her look older than her thirty-six years. She clicked the button on her intercom, and moments later the door opened to reveal her assistant. He walked into the room, his brow raised questioningly at the look on her face.

“Dane, get me Her Majesty’s office on the line, we have a problem in Tarasovka.” Emma shook her head, hoping that they were not about to have to break the ties of friendship that they had recently opened with the Taraskovyans.


Ewige Verdammnis Palace, Erebus, Tartarus

Sitting at her desk, Gehenna lowered the phone, her expression almost identical to that of her Foreign Secretary. At the moment she could do little other than get as much information as possible. It was not altogether impossible for this to be some misunderstanding rather than an actually attack on her Ambassador, but she had to keep in mind what her options were, regardless of the outcome, and worse case scenario was always the best place to start and then backtrack from there. This did not fill her with much joy, in fact, it had her temper rising already.

She had left word with Emma to keep her informed, and she had already set steps in motion, ready to react if things were following her worse case scenario. Not wanting to jump before she had the full facts, she settled back into her chair, looking over her schedule for the day ahead. In the back of her mind, she was focused on the events miles away, waiting for a call that would bring her peace of mind.


Ms Ormond’s Residence, 7 Orlov Street, Capital City of Vigvar
The following day

The drive to her house had been in silence, her mind in a whirl as she wondered just what had happened after the incident in the night. She would not be surprised to see the place overrun with security, trying to establish who had entered the house and took her off. She would have to make contact with Tartarus very quickly before this sparked into something bigger than a slight misunderstanding. She knew that the Empire would be demanding an explanation from those in power.

Getting out of the car, she walked into the grounds, and quickly made her way up the path to the door. She looked around, spotting some very familiar and not too happy faces. As she moved closer, one of them saw her and headed in her direction, the scowl on his face indicated that he held her to blame for what had happened.

“Where the hell have you been?” The Head of Security practically shouted at her from across the grass, his pace fast as he strode towards her. “Your residence was attacked last night.”

Angelina looked at him, her eyes displaying the fear she had felt the previous night, when the armed soldiers had taken her away. “I’m well aware of what happened, Stephen. I was here at the time.” She continued to walk towards the house. The feel of his hand on her shoulder ceased her movement.

“What happened?” This time his voice sounded a little more concerned, as it finally struck him that she might not have sneaked off for a rendezvous.

Shaking her head, she sighed deeply. “It was a misunderstanding. Someone thought I would be safer away from the house.” She looked around at the ground, recalling where she had seen her security personnel. “Is everyone alright?”

Stephen nodded. “Everyone has been checked over. Nothing more than a little knock, but we are going to have to increase security. We can’t have people walking in here and taking you.” He looked at her questioningly. “Should I ask who?”

Again she shook her head. “A concerned friend.” She smiled and pointed towards the door. “I need to contact the Empire and make sure nothing comes of this. They are not going to be happy…this is not the auspicious start we were hoping for. The Empress is going to have a lot of questions over how this came about, I just hope the answer is a good enough one.”

Backing away slightly, the head of security watched as she walked to the door and disappeared inside. Turning, he headed to one of his men. “Let’s have a complete review. I don’t want this happening again.”

Ithun walked slowly through the streets of the city, breathing the fresh air of spring as his mind filled with pleasant memories of the night he spent and of the morning that came after it. The streets were busy with people converging towards the Midnight square to witness for themselves the return of the Grand Duke, peering curiously at the young man dressed into a Next Generation Forces outfit, carrying no gauntlets, no helmet and no weapons. Ithun paid no attention to them as he walked through the city towards one of the bridges that would take him to the Outer Ring. Walking on foot would most surely take him hours to get home, but he did not mind having a little walk.

He reached up with his hand to seize a branch of lilac that bended over the fence of a manor by the sidewalk. The beautiful purple flower and its majestic perfume were greatly loved by the Taraskovyans, some even offering to make it an ‘official flower’ of the nation, as if there was nothing else to do than to name national flowers… Ithun smelled the flower, smiling happily as he cracked the branch, taking it with him.

***

“What will you do now?”

Her voice sounded from behind his back as he readjusted the ‘swimsuit’, as it was affectionately called by the army, before picking up a boot to put it on. He looked back into the pile of pillows, a pile that he was sure to remember for some time, at Angelina who was pulling her stockings on, a happy smile on her face as she looked at him.

“Do you have anything special to propose?” He asked as he finished with his boots and began clipping the various parts of the greaves on the swimsuit, the entire process going quickly. Indeed, the various components of light Taraskovyan combat armours could be taken off and put back on in the blink of an eye without too much effort. Of course, it was intended for the medical teams to be able to access the wounds quicker, but, as was always the case, the concept proved useful for many other purposes. She peered at Ithun as she began to button her shirt, frowning slightly, wondering how those military folks could get dressed up so quickly into something that clearly did not look as comfortable as a set of normal clothes.

“I have promised you a dinner, remember?” Angelina said with a smile as he walked up to her, chasing her fingers from the buttons of her shirt. “I remember.” Ithun said as he buttoned her shirt, wrapping his arms around her as he finished. “But I just might have an idea... I will just kidnap you to a secret lair where I’d make love to you for days, relentlessly, compensating for the past year.”

Angelina could not help but to erupt into laughter as she leaned in to give him a peck on the lips. “That sounds…delightful. But don’t you think kidnapping a foreign ambassador will cause more problems for your nation?” He shrugged as he let her go, walking up to where the plaudrons and breastplate of his armour were. “I think I have already kidnapped you, no?” He said as he fixed the remaining parts of the protective elements on the swimsuit. “But you are right. And that is why you are going back to your residence to calm your compatriots down.”

He grinned as he invited her to follow him outside once she finished dressing up.

***

He did not notice, plunged into his memories, as he ended up in front of the bridge he came to. An airborne unit was keeping guard, one of the soldiers stopping the intriguing NGF trooper to check his identity, immediately saluting as he saw the credentials of a Poruchik of the Airborne. Ithun peered at the bridge and then at the slopes covered in forests that ran from the Vigvar Plateau down into the valleys below before they crashed into the tall pillar-buildings composing the Outer Ring. Long ago, there were many communities and cities down in the valleys, but then everything just merged into one gigantic entity known as the ‘Outer Ring’. The young officer sighed as he asked for a ride back home, his colleagues happily offering them the service of one of their APCs.

Angelina stepped out of the shower, her body glistening with droplets of water. She wrapped a towel around her and made her way to the bedroom, humming softly to herself, as she grabbed a second towel. Walking over to the bed, she sat down on the edge, and patted her hair dry slightly, before wrapping the towel around her head, stopping the water running down her back.

She looked over at the clock on the bedside, checking how much time she had, smiling when she realised she had plenty to get ready in. She wanted to look her best; she always did when she was meeting Ithun. As he came into her mind, her smile grew. Not that she did not see him any more, since the arrival of the Grand Duke she had managed to spend more time with him than she had. Gone were the days of the odd note or email, hiding from each other. Now they had time for each other, they had kind of been given the Duke’s blessing. The evening she had met him bringing to mind a very pleasant moment.

Slipping off the bed, she wrapped her hands over her body, drying herself off. She padded over to the walk-in wardrobe, where she scanned her clothing, picking out something suitable for the evening. Settling on am elegant midnight blue dress, she picked out the co-ordinated accessories and moved back over to the bed, where she laid out her clothing.

She finished drying herself, and quickly put on her underwear, followed by the dress, which slipped over her body, hugging her form. She ran her hand over the material, smoothing it against her skin. Next, she moved over to the mirror and applied her makeup, and then worked on her hair, blow drying it then putting it up in an elegant style. Giving her appearance a smile, she moved back over to the bed, and pushed her stocking covered feet into a pair of midnight blue high-heeled shoes, adding to the shape of her legs.

Picking up her bag, she stopped in front of the mirror, and admired her reflection, turning around slowly, checking herself over. Confident that she was looking good, she moved over to her dressing table and picked up a couple of pieces of makeup, a comb and her mobile, and placed them in her bag. Giving herself one last glance in the mirror, she left the bedroom and headed downstairs, waiting for Ithun’s arrival.

He arrived a little earlier than the time they agreed upon, as usual. The young officer halted his car in front of the gates leading into Angelina’s mansion, got out of it, breathing the fresh evening air, the coolness of it appeasing his otherwise very excited mood. Indeed, there were reasons for him to be excited and happy and even proud and these reasons were the ones why he decided to take her out for a dinner.

Ithun nodded to the Tartarian guard by the gates, the latter smiling in return and letting the Taraskovyan in. The local guards had grown used to seeing the young man dash forth and from the ambassador’s residence on a rather regular basis for the last month. And yet, that time, the close friend of the ambassador was a little different. A white scarf was sticking out in front of his neck, folded elegantly to appear voluminous without sticking into the officer’s face. And if some were overly attentive, they would have noticed that his shoulder straps, albeit being the same as before, were now barren of any little silver stars.

Ithun smiled to himself as he checked his watch, his eyes lifting up to look at the doors of the mansion. And as they opened in a quick motion, which seemed to Ithun to have lasted an eternity, he was awed by the Goddess that appeared before him. His jaw did not drop, his eyes did not become round, but it could be seen that she had taken him aback with her beauty, as she did every evening they spent together.

Their love and passion for each other, held back for more than a year by a dam of administrative fuss and bureaucratic filth, was now left to blossom freely, Lady Fate rewarding them for having stood out during the trials and difficulties. Well, she would have rewarded them, but Ithun did not believe in Fate and so he just shook the thoughts away as he smiled at Angelina, who was getting closer to him with every of her elegant, gracious, and yet somehow impatient steps.

“You look… beautiful, dear heart.” Ithun said as she finally came up to him. He bowed, taking her hand and kissing it tenderly before straightening himself again. “Shall we?” He presented her with his arm as he invited her to follow him. In fact, he wanted to grab her and whirl her around, but he knew quite well that it was not something to do to an ambassador in front of her subordinates. Not that her dress would have appreciated such a treatment, either...

As she opened the door, Angelina smiled, her eyes lighting up with her feelings, as she her gaze fell on Ithun. Of course, she knew it would be him when she heard the knock, but seeing him filled her with so much happiness. It was seeing him that always had her heart pounding loudly in her chest. Sometimes she was surprised no one else could hear it.

“Thank you.” She spoke as she slipped her arm through his, letting him lead her to the waiting car. “You look very handsome tonight.” Turning her head, she ran her gaze over his body, knowing that there was something different but not being able to put her finger on it. She pressed a kiss to his cheek then turned her gaze forward, nodding to the men on security as she passed through the gates.

She stopped by the car, and turned to look at Ithun, moving so that she was standing in front of him. “So, my love, where are we eating tonight?” She smiled up at him, as she ran her finger lightly down his chest. “Or is it a surprise?” Her eyes remained fixed to his, twinkling with her feelings…and if he looked closely, he would see how much she wanted to throw her arms around him and kiss him passionately.

Ithun smiled at Angelina, raising his hand to caress her cheek as he whispered mysteriously. “It is a surprise. This and something else.” He gave her a wink as she looked at him with curiousity, but said nothing else. He opened the door of the car for her, helping her get in. Once that done, he took driver’s place and drove them off through the streets of Vigvar drowning into night. The atmosphere around the city was festive, with people celebrating the restoration of the Grand Duchy, which officially happened on the previous night, shortly after midnight. Old Grand Ducal and Federal flags, banners of the Grand Duke and of the Dynasty, even a couple White Legion flags, everything mixed on buildings, on trees, in the hands of the people that, having celebrated all day long, hadn’t even begun celebrating to their fullest potential.

Ithun looked at Angelina as he drove through the streets that weren’t locked off to traffic, a smile on his lips. “Doesn’t this remind you something?” His words were lost in a sudden burst of fireworks that lit the street in a myriad of colours, the crowd immediately cheering, whistling and applauding. The car soon stopped at a small parking in a park. Ithun got out, opened the door to Angelina, helping her out of the car, and, upon taking her arm, led her off through a shadowed alley, where the two, unable to subdue their passion, shared a long kiss in the shadows of trees.

Happy and enthralled, the two then continued their short walk to a one storey house standing in a corner of the park. It most clearly was a restaurant, with a terrace and a signpost with the name of the establishment. “Chiara Luce” could be read above, with a menu following, the plates clearly belonging to Italian cuisine. Ithun smiled at Angelina as a waiter approached them, the Taraskovyan giving his name to the young man.

“Of course. Pray, follow, Vashe Vysokoblagorodie.” The waiter said, having given a quick glance at Ithun’s shoulder-straps, and invited the officer and the young lady to follow him.

As she stepped out of the car, Angelina smiled, and took in her surroundings. Not having long, as she took Ithun’s hand and followed him into the restaurant. She was barely paying much attention as the waiter walked up to them, but her interest was grabbed the moment he address her companion. Almost like a light going on, the thing about him that was niggling at her mind finally became clear.

Taking her seat, she smiled at Ithun as he made himself comfortable in his own. She leant conspiratorially over the table towards him, her voice low, as soon as the waiter had left the menus and had walked away. “Vashe Vysokoblagorodie?” She smiled at him, her brow raised questioningly. “Since when were you greeted that way?” Her eyes moved to his shoulders, where she instantly spotted the difference in his attire. “Is there something you aren’t telling me?”

Her voice was full of excitement, as she reached over to take his hand, her own merely indicating its need to be held. Her menu remained closed in her other hand, as she waited for his reply, her eyes twinkling with interest.

Ithun smiled as he took her hand into his, rubbing her fingers gently. His gaze remained fixed to her fingers for a moment as he remained silent to keep her waiting for the reply. He then lifted his eyes to look into Angelina’s ones, an even broader smile drawing on his lips as his face reflected happiness and pride.

“I have been made Captain of the Airborne, affective as of today.” He sighed contently as he paused for a moment before continuing. “The People and Fiefdoms restored the Grand Duke in his functions, so he immediately went to work with plans he had prepared in advance. Which included officially rewarding the people who helped him certain little tasks.” He said with a wink. “Oh, and that little document he gave you is officially valid as of today, too.”

On a table nearby a group of officers suddenly stood up and began singing the anthem of the Grand Duchy. Ithun grinned as he looked at them and shook his head. “Loyalists celebrating…” He uttered as he looked back at his companion.

“Congratulations.” Angelina smiled, and lowered her menu to free her other hand. She raised her fingers to her lips and blew Ithun a kiss across the table. “Now I’ll have to get used to addressing you differently.” Her smile showed that it would not be a difficult task, as she had yet to really address him as anything other than Ithun. On the rare occasions she had called him by his rightful title, she had hardly got into a habit, and changing his form of address would take as much concentration as it did to use his former one.

Squeezing his hand, she nodded her head as she spoke. “I’m hoping I won’t have any call to use the document.” She released his hand and poured herself a glass of water and then one for him. She gave him another smile, and brought her glass to her lips and took a sip, before replacing it on the table and picking up the menu. Giving it a slight glance, her attention was then directed towards the other table where a group were celebrating.

She watched them for a while before turning back to Ithun. “They have every reason to be happy and joyous. The return of the Duke is a very significant event, and hopefully will bring order back to Tarasovka, something that has been missing in the last few months.” She lowered her eyes and glanced over the list of food on offer. “I don’t know what to have that will be worthwhile for all the celebrating we have to do today.” She smiled. “Champagne most definitely, which is on me, to congratulate you on your promotion.”

Ithun smiled and nodded to Angelina as his eyes studied the choice of food. “I gladly accept your gift of champagne. As of the food… maybe the same thing we took last time we ate Italian?” He grinned as his eyes rested upon the very renowned meal in the menu. “And then we shall take some Taraskovyan wine, something from Amalor.” He laid the menu aside, having decided on what he’d take and looked up at the young girl.

“How are things on your side?” He smiled mysteriously all of a sudden as he continued. “Oh, I need to warn you that, as of today, the Ruling Council’s Secretariat for Foreign Relations no longer exists. This means that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is free to do its job once again and that you diplomatic folks shall very soon have to deal with a new Taraskovyan Foreign Minister.”

It was at this moment that the waiter arrived to take the orders. Ithun made his choice of meal and drinks, leaving Lina do hers.

Scanning the menu, Angelina raised her eyes briefly, nodded and smiled, as Ithun made his suggestion for what they should eat. Her gaze had only just returned to their task of finding a suitable choice of meal, when his next words plucked at her interest, the list of dishes before her being forgotten. Before she could ask him a question, the waiter arrived to take their order. She gave in her list of choices and handed the man her menu, before her attention returned totally to her dinner companion.

“The Grand Duke is certainly making changes very rapidly, that will keep us all on our toes.” She gave Ithun a smile, as she looked at him questioningly, her expression not hiding her interest at all. “And has the new Foreign Minister been announced.” She tried to keep her voice level, as if the information was of little interest, but the fact that she asked gave her away. “I hope it doesn’t turn out to be some unapproachable, unhelpful man…or woman. There is nothing worse than coming up against a brick wall every time you need something.”

Lowering her glass, she gave Ithun another smile. “Even if I do have that document from the Grand Duke, I’d hate to have to struggle and beg for the tiniest scrap of information.” She let out an audible sigh. “And to think, I’d just got used to dealing with the last lot.”

Ithun looked at his companion with a smile as he shook his head. “The new Government has not been announced for now, because the Grand Duke has only offered the places to the candidates he thinks are suited the best. Well, all but two of the potential Ministers have already agreed to take the jobs, but two of them, including the potential Foreign Minister, are still hesitating.”

He sipped some of his water, enjoying the refreshing effect in his throat, before continuing. “And I do believe that the new person shall be better than the Chief Secretary for Foreign Relations we had. And I have known him well enough, with him being my very, overly and just most sincerely beloved boss.” He gave her a wink as he smiled, making the sarcasm of his last words evident.

“Although just imagining you begging is quite an interesting sight…” He laughed, grinning at her. “But worry not. The Grand Duke is a rather… unconventional man, to say the least, but I am sure he holds the wellbeing of his nation above any personal interests. So to say, I am sure that he chooses the candidates not based on favouritism but on skill. Which shall be seen once the Government is announced. After the two remaining candidates confirm or reject their appointment, of course.”

“Hopefully most national leaders do hold the wellbeing of their respective nations above anything else, although there are cases throughout history that say otherwise.” Angelina paused for a moment in thought. “The Grand Duke is not new in this position, so I’m sure his judgement is wise in this case. Personal experience with him has made me realise he has a very shrewd head on his shoulders.” Her eyes twinkled with the memory of her meeting the ruler of Tarasovka, though they lingered longer on the time afterwards.

She shook away the memories as she gave Ithun a smile. “I must say that I will not be sorry not to have to deal with Count Kumysov anymore, though there were some very helpful members of staff working for him.” She grinned and then her brow furrowed for a moment, as she become once more briefly lost in thought. “Of course, this leads me to a very important question. What are you going to do now that your position is no longer needed? You are, strictly speaking, out of a job.”

To say that Angelina’s question caught him unprepared was to commit an understatement. In fact, confusion could be read on Ithun’s face as he wondered what to answer her. Yet, it was not the confusion of somebody who had nowhere to go, his eyes did not reflect hopelessness, but instead they sparkled with mischief as he proceeded to answer her. “Well, I am sure I will… err… find something. I do have some cosy bank accounts in the meanwhile.” He paused for a second as his brows furrowed. “I will most surely not go into active service, especially not with the situations in Der Angst and Tarvalak heading to open war. I’ve had my share of combat already.”

His brow arched mysteriously as he smiled at her. “But I am quite sure I will be able to find something in the Capital City. Actually, I already have a job in view, but I wanted to consult with you before taking it, if you do not mind.” It was at this precise moment that their food and drinks arrived, the waiters placing the plates on the table. Ithun chose to have champagne served first and, once the glasses were filled, inclined his head respectfully to the waiter, allowing him to leave.

That done, the young Captain of the Airborne fixed his eyes upon his lover once again, a smile playing on his lips. “But that shall be after dinner.” With that, he raised his glass of champagne and waited for Angelina to do the same. “This is not exactly the way officers celebrate their promotion, but none the less…” He paused for a second, smiling at her. “But let us first not drink to my rank, but to… you. Indeed, the past year has been overly difficult, what with all the uprisings and paranoid espionage mania one could really go mad. Yet I did not, I held out, and it is due to you. Yes, to you, to your eyes and your smile and to the love you hold for me. And… ahh…” He went silent all of a sudden, seeking the words to express what he wanted and finding none. After several seconds, he came up with something acceptable. “I do not believe in Lady Fate, Lina. Yet, if she exists, I shall be eternally indebted to her for arranging for my coming to Devras where I met you. Thank you for being there and… well… to you!”

Angelina blushed as Ithun said the toast to her, causing to her be caught a little by surprise. “I would not have got through this year without you.” She smiled, her eyes sparkling with her love for the man sitting opposite her. “So, I shall raise a toast not to me…but to us. May Lady Fate continue to watch over us, and bring us a path of happiness, which is, from this day forward, trouble free.” She chinked her glass against Ithun’s and took a long sip, the champagne bubbles tickling her tongue.

Returning her glass to the table, she looked at into the eyes of her lover, her eyes gazing into his looking for some kind of sign. “You are being very mysterious today.” She looked down at the plate that was steaming in front of her and picked up her fork, which she paused just above a piece of vegetable and returned her attention back to Ithun. “You know I would be honoured to discuss anything you want to discuss, and I am more than happy to leave it until after dinner.”

She finally stabbed the piece of food and brought it up to her mouth, tentatively slipping in between her lips in case it was hot. After chewing a swallowing, she smiled. “This is very good.” She indicated the plate with her fork. “You haven’t told me who was in the running for the Foreign Minister’s role. I’m sure you could give me a little clue. Forewarned is forearmed, afterall.” She gave him her best puppy dog eyed look, and smiled charmingly.

Ithun smiled at her as he chewed on some of his food, fighting hard not to erupt into laughter as he admired the expression on her face. “Well,” he said as he swallowed the bit in his mouth, “I cannot say anything because the candidate has not decided, yet. But since you are asking just for a clue…” He paused for a moment, arching a brow as he looked on the bottle of champagne before looking up at her again.

“Well, I am most definitely sure it is not a woman.” He took another piece of his meal into his mouth, enjoying the taste. Teasing her was proving more interesting than he first thought. But what he also knew was that she would kill him after dinner.

“I take it that means you aren’t going to tell me.” Angelina frowned slightly, with a slight pout, before breaking into a smile. “I’ll just have to wait like all the others.” Her fork once more found and captured a piece of food. “And I thought sleeping with a member of the Taraskovyan staff would have benefits.” She laughed lightly, and took the morsel into her mouth, chewing it enthusiastically as she savoured the taste.

“Actually, we didn’t come here to talk shop, so let us get back to what we should be doing, celebrating your promotion and celebrating us.” She lowered her fork to the plate, and picked up her glass, taking another sip of champagne. Her eyes lingered on the man opposite her, reflecting her feelings in gaze.

She admired him more than anyone she knew. He had been through so much, a lot of things she knew he had not told her to spare her the horror of knowing. And despite all of that, he did not let it takeover and control his life. She knew that it was his strength that had helped her through her time in Tarasovka, without him, she was sure she would have been back in Tartarus before then.

“I was thinking.” She paused all her actions, just sitting there watching. “You’ve not been to Tartarus, have you?” Her voice held that questioning note, even though she already knew the answer. “Once the Grand Duke has everything under control, why don’t we go there? I could show you my homeland, if you want, that is.”

He shook his head as she mentioned Tartarus. “I have never been there and now that you mention it, it would be nice to go there. And I am honoured that you invited me.” Ithun smiled at her as he paused for a moment, pensively, before continuing. “There are plans to hold the Parliamentary elections in two months time. As such, we could either postpone it until afterwards, or go before… What say you?”

He looked at her silently, still wondering how not only a Taraskovyan, but one with Taraskath heritage, managed to become closer to a foreigner than he had ever been with the members of his kin, except for his mother, for quite obvious reasons. Yet he was happy to have met her. “If you don’t mind, maybe I could see your family? I’d love to see the parents that have raised such a formidable daughter.” He smiled as he took his glass of champagne and extended it slightly towards her. “To your parents!”

“My parents!” Raising her glass, she chinked it once more against his and took a sip. She let out a soft laugh as she lowered it back to the table. “I had planned on taking you to meet them, if only to prove to my mother than I am not too busy with my career to meet someone.” She shook her head, and leant over the table conspiratorially. “She has informed me more time than I can remember that I will never find a husband, I’d like to show her that I have what it takes.” She sat back in the chair and grinned. “Not that that was a proposal, in case you were wondering.”

She blushed slightly, wondering what had made her walk down that path. She hoped that he did not think that she was reading more into their relationship than there actually was. Talk of marriage was not on the cards, not yet, she thought, though in the future. She speared another piece of food, and chewed it distractedly as thoughts swam through her head, until she finally got them under control.

“Once you have a date that you are free, I shall make the arrangements. Perhaps we can find some time for me to give you a little tour of the Empire. Although I doubt we will have much time for too much sightseeing.” Lowering her fork, she picked up her champagne and took a small sip, clearing her palate of the taste of the last forkful. “Mmm, that was delicious. You chose well coming here.” She blew him a kiss over the table, and smiled happily.

He could not help but smile at her blush as she mentioned marriage. He remembered the past times when she would also rush ahead of things, pausing all of a sudden with that expression on her face that made him want to take her into his arms, to embrace her tightly. “Then the Prince shall be looking forward to meeting the mother of the Princess.” Ithun with a warm smile as he remembered the day she came to see him, during the 1147 Uprising.

The two of them finished their food and Ithun called for a waiter, asking for the bill. And as the man drifted away between tables, the young officer smiled at Angelina. “I am sorry for not offering you any dessert, for I actually wanted to have you for one. Already stuffed up on cream and other tasty things.” He gave her a malicious wink as the waiter came over with a leather folder, which Ithun opened and, having taken notice of the sum, put in enough cash to cover for the dinner and provide for a tip.

“You shall reimburse the champagne later.” He said as he stood up and helped her do the same. He wrapped an arm around her waist, caring not for the rules of etiquette, and the two directed themselves out of the restaurant and into the park outside. Ithun remained silent as they walked between darkened trees, the silence of the night constantly interrupted by sounds of cheering and partying in the adjacent neighbourhoods. It was clear that he was thinking of something, a little smile playing in the corners of his lips as his eyes sparkled in the dark.

Angelina waited until they were in the park before she spoke again. “You want me for dessert, do you?” She moved until she was standing in front of him, both her arms wrapped around his body, as she gazed into his eyes, her own twinkling with more than just her love for him. “Well…” She paused for a moment, as smile growing on her lips. “I could accommodate you, but…” A frown appeared on her brow, as she thought for a moment. “It’s going to cost you.” She grinned, and turned, walking a couple of steps ahead of him, her back to him, waiting to see what his reaction would be.

She knew exactly what she was doing. He had played hard when she wanted information out of him, now she was going to pay him back in kind. At least make him work for what he wanted.

Ithun grinned broadly as he looked at her, amused and pleased by her behaviour. “It will cost me something? My, my, I really wonder what I could use as payment.” He said in an obviously ironic tone, walking over to the side of the path and leaning against a tree, his eyes never leaving her silhouette illuminated by the stars.

“Oh, I think I know. You want the candidate’s name, don’t you?” Ithun chuckled and shook his head. “Remember I’ve told you I had something to discuss with you in private, about a certain job I might have, but I was not sure about taking it?” He paused for a second before continuing. “Well, Lina, I am the candidate. And I really need your advice on this one.”

Angelina frowned and groaned loudly. “Of all the low down, nasty things to do.” She walked over to him, her eyebrow raised questioningly. “Are you teasing me? Or have you really been offered the position?” She shook her head. “Because if you are leading me down the garden path, there may be no dessert for you for a very long time.” She stood in front of him, reading his expression and knowing somehow that he was telling the truth.

“This is amazing.” She broke into a large smile. “It is such a good opportunity for you.” She could hardly put her thoughts into words, as a million things rushed around her head. “What is stopping your from accepting it? It’s a good promotion and you are more than deserving of the post.” She pressed a kiss to you cheek and wrapped her arms around him. “I am so proud of you.”

He wrapped an arm around her and stroked her back as with the free hand he cupped her cheek, looking into her eyes. “There are two reasons that make me think before accepting it. The first one is that you already have a schedule and if I take this post I will surely be having lots of work. Which would mean we would have less time for us.” He smiled as he leaned forward to kiss the tip of her nose.

“The other one is that I am, to put it quite bluntly, overly young and inexperienced to take such a job. I am sure the Grand Duke knew what he was doing when he picked me and I am truly honoured to be bestowed with such a chance to serve my nation, but I do not want to endanger the Grand Duchy by committing youthful blunders.” He sighed and smiled. “It is maybe the first time that I am at a loss on what to do.”

Angelina returned his gaze, the smile slipping slightly off of her lips as he spoke. “Well, we’ve survived on less time, not that I really want to repeat that.” She raised her hand and lightly traced her finger around his hairline, and then brought her fingers down to his chin, as she leant forward and placed a tender kiss on his lips. She let her hand continue to travel down his body, sliding down his neck and coming to rest on his chest, as their lips parted.

“Whatever you want to do, I want you to do.” She frowned for a moment, hoping that made sense, before breaking out into a large smile. “But this will be a very good move for you, allowing you to make a difference. Instead of doing the bidding of others, you will make the choices, and I think you have made some very good choices in the past.” She winked. “You picked me, after all.”

He broke into a smile as his eyes lit up with that particular fire they were known for. “Indeed, picking you was a good choice.” Ithun paused for a second, looking her into the eyes. “And what you say is true. It is a chance not to let pass and I shall inform His Highness that I accept his offer first thing tomorrow.”

His eyes wandered to look behind her, on the path heading somewhere into the depths of the park, before they returned to look at her. “This path leads to a manor owned by the Shakhovskoy family, which the Grand Duke decided to make into the residence of the Foreign Minister, because it is not far away from the Ministry.” He smiled maliciously at her and winked. “So if you allow me to have my dessert, I shall take it there.”

Following his gaze down the path, Angelina returned his smile, with a very mischievous one of her own. “I must admit, I’ve never had dessert with a future foreign Foreign Minister.” She grinned, and pressed another kiss to his lips. “And was this the reason that we came for a walk in this particular spot? Hmm?” She raised her eyebrow against and let her hand reach out and take hold of his lightly, her fingers rubbing lightly over his skin.

“I think you had better lead the way before I remember how mean you have been to me today.” The light of the moon and stars twinkled in her eyes, adding to the smile that she gave him. “And I’ll make sure you get up early…but not too early, to make your meeting with the Grand Duke, even if I have to kick you out of the bed.” Despite her plea for him to lead the way, she began to walk off in the direction indicated, slowly pulling on his hand encouragingly.

Ithun sighed happily as he let her guide him through the path, closer to his place of residence. He had already visited the building, made some preparations for the ‘celebrations’ and was now looking forward to every second of it as his eyes looked at her. “Now that I think of it, sleeping with a member of the Taraskovyan staff does yield benefits.” He said as he grinned broadly, shaking his head as they walked towards the house, quite soon reaching the fence around it and a gateway leading into the garden, full of blossoming flowers.

“Let’s hope I am patient enough to wait until we enter the house…” He whispered into her year, wrapping an arm around her waist, shifting his head slightly to smell her hear, breathing contently. “It feels so good having you by my side more often than once half a year.” He added as he nibbled on the top of her ear gently, teasing himself and her before the main show.

“If you continue like that, I doubt we’ll even get into the garden.” Angelina sighed softly with pleasure as his breath sent warm air over her skin, which caused shivers to spread down her spine. “And I don’t think we want to get arrested doing something that we should not be doing in public, especially with your promotion on the table.” Despite her words, she turned and faced him, her arms wrapping around his body, pulling him into a passionate kiss.

As she looked at him moments later, feeling slightly breathless, she smiled, her eyes twinkling with her love for him. “I think we had better get inside.” Releasing her hold, she once more found his hand with hers, and let him into the garden, her eyes barely picking up the features of her surroundings.

He laughed lightly as they went through the garden and to the door, saying nothing as excitement ran through their bodies. He did not see as they skipped past the various plants, for all he felt and noticed was her by his side, her hand in his. He opened the door into the house and let her in, kicking it closed once he was inside where, sheltered from the curious gazes of the public, the two felt secure and ready to do everything and anything.

Their hands slid up and down their bodies as they took their garments off, their lips tied in a passionate kiss as they left a trail of clothes behind them. And so they continued until there was nothing else to take off and, shivering as their bare flesh touched, they abandoned themselves to their lust and desire.

The following day, Angelina entered the embassy, her mind whirling over the details of the previous evening. She tried to recall all the changes that Ithun had mentioned in their conversations, the revelation that he had been offered the role of Foreign Minister played heavily on her mind, and as much as she had pushed him to take to opportunity for the sake of his career progression, it also worried her that she was going to lose so much time with him, but then that was something she had to sacrifice for him to climb the ladder. Her thoughts then shifted to the latter part of the evening, and a smile appeared on her lips, as she realised that time apart led to other things.

“Good morning, Louise.” Entering her secretary’s office on the way to hers, Angelina watched as Louise Naylor rose from her seat and grabbed a few things from her desk. As she walked into her office, she could hear the gently footfalls of Louise following behind her. “Anything important for me today?”

Louise shook her head and looked down at her notebook. “The Secretary of Foreign Affairs has booked a conference call with you at eleven, she wanted it earlier but you have an appointment with Martin French today, he wants to cover some of the stories that are running around Tarasovka at the moment, what with the changes the Grand Duke is bringing about.”

“Yes, there are certainly a lot of those in the pipeline.” Angelina placed her briefcase on her desk, and slipped off her coat, laying it on top of the case. “I guess we have to be ready for anything. Have they released any details of the changes yet?”

Looking once more at her notes, Louise flicked through a few pages then looked at Angelina. “No, so far they have released nothing, but Keith does not think we will hear anything for a while. They’re probably still working on the finer details.” She smiled. “Once we hear anything, I’ll get the news to you asap.”

Angelina moved over to her chair and dropped herself into it, feeling more tired than she should have, she had certainly slept well last night, eventually. “Louise, can you see if you can rearrange the meeting with Martin for earlier, just in case it overruns, you know how he has a tendency to talk for Tartarus.” She ran her fingers through her hair and sighed.

“Late night?” Louise asked as she closed her notebook.

Angelina nodded her head and smiled. “Celebrating.” She looked up and caught Louise’s gaze.

“Coffee?”

“You know me too well.” Angelina laughed lightly to herself, and pulled open her drawer and took out some notes that she had been reading yesterday, and began to prepare for her meeting.

Taraskovyan News Wire – Breaking News

The logo of the news show of the TNW, along with its tune, played rapidly on the screens throughout the nation as the image changed into a view of the studio with the famous presenter smiling into the camera. “Good afternoon, I am Natalya Veselova with the breaking news straight from the Winter Palace where the Grand Duke has announced the composition of the Grand Ducal Government.”

The image switched from the smiling woman to a screen featuring the Grand Ducal flag, on which a series of portraits appeared. The presenter’s voice could be heard as one of the portraits, that of the Grand Duke himself, got enlarged. “His Highness, the Grand Duke of Tarasovka shall combine the duties of Head of Government and of Minister of National Security, the successor to the Kaskad.”

The Grand Duke’s portrait was minimised as an other one came up. “His Highness the Duke Anatoly Orlov, received the post of Minister of Defence. Anatoly Orlov is renowned as a skillful military officer and politician, as well as being the head of the Orlov House, staunch allies of the Shakhovskoy family.”

The Duke’s portrait was minimised as yet another one was brought up, featuring a typically Taraskath face. “His Highness High Duke Karth Tal-Nash, younger brother of High Duke Il’liar Tal-Nash, is to become the new Minister of Interior. It is known that the Tal-Nash have been claiming the Sword for centuries and have been in very hostile relations with the Shakhovskoy and their Orlov allies. Placing a prominent Tal-Nash on such an important position would thus appear as a message of unity to the Taraskovyan people.”

Karth’s portrait drifted back as another one came up, this time featuring the face of a young officer in the uniform of an Airborne Captain. “His Highness the High Count Ithun Khat, awarded with the Order of Saint Alexander* for his performance during the Plague**, has been given the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs. His nomination comes despite the fact of his young age and alleged close ties to a foreign dignitary.”

The explanation went on, the other Ministers (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Namellar/GDT/government.jpg) introduced briefly by the channel before the show changed into a debate between some Taraskovyan political analysts on the new Government and the various details of it.

[OOC:
*The Order of Saint Alexander (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Namellar/GDT/stalexander.jpg) is the highest military honour in Tarasovka.
**Plague is the name given by Taraskovyans to the Civil War of 1141 A.S., known abroad as the Aphyr Conflict. ]

Angelina switched off the television as the report ended and frowned. She was only grateful that her name had not been mentioned in connection with Ithun’s as details of his promotion had been officially announced. Still, there was nothing she could do about it, and the Grand Duke has offered him the role knowing that Ithun was in a relationship with her, he had given them his blessing after all. Fortunately it was only a rumour at the moment, but there were so many people who already knew.

Brushing the thoughts away, not wanting her day to progress into her dwelling over whether they were right or wrong in their relationship, telling herself how could it be so bad when it felt so right, she settled down into some work, losing herself for several hours in catching up, and giving herself some time to read up on the new Ducal Government so that she could report back to Emma, keeping their own Foreign Office up to date.

At lunch time, she took herself for a walk, needed some air and time to think about the arrangements she needed to make for their trip to Tartarus. She, of course, needed to wait until Ithun could give her a time that he was free, as both would be busy during the changeover period, the New Foreign Minister especially. Having already informed her parents of her future plans, it was only a matter of finding the date and arranging the flights.

Having become totally lost in her thoughts, Angelina had wiled away an hour, and made her way back to her office in order to compete her report, and forward on a copy of the official announcement that she had received from the Taraskovyan government, detailing the list of new government officials.

The soft wind ran through the gallery giving on the Great Gardens as two men walked the length of it, discussing something. In one of them one could immediately recognize His Highness the Grand Duke, whilst the second man was nobody else than the newly appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs, High Count Khat. Mikhail listened to his new Minister with attention as the latter briefed him into the latest state of affairs and how his coming affected the Ministry.

“So I deem that your first week as Foreign Minister has been quite pleasant?” The Grand Duke said as his gaze drifted into the gardens, at a patrol of “Silence and Death” Guards, before setting his eyes once again upon Ithun.

“Indeed, Sire. My staff has taken kindly to my coming and has been very collaborative. Our foreign counterparts have not expressed any discontent with the current state of affairs, either.”

“So much for the better. “

“Sire, are you really sure that I am the right choice for the job?”

Mikhail stopped abruptly, frowning as he looked at Ithun coldly. “Do you doubt your skills or is it because of your relation with Miss Ormond?”

Ithun blinked for a second, sighing, and then nodding. “The latter.”

“Oh! It is all good then.” Mikhail laughed lightly. “I was afraid you doubted your skills, which would have been a very bad thing indeed. As of Miss Ormond, I, from all people, know about your ties to her and judge it not to be an issue. I have full confidence that she will not compromise you by asking too many questions, nor will you betray your Motherland by answering those questions. Should you do so, then I shall personally send you off to the Hold. Any further questions?”

“No, Sire.” Ithun said as he smiled, clearly relieved. “Oh, no, I do have a question… Angelina… I mean, Miss Ormond has invited me to visit her homeland.”

“When?”

“Whenever it is possible. So I wanted to ask permission from you, Sire.”

“You have it, but be sure to return two weeks before the Parliamentary elections. I doubt the future Parliamentarians shall take it kindly to the Foreign Minister running about on personal errands in the very first months of the Restoration, so better be here once they are all elected.”

“I understand, Sire.”

One week later...

Looking around her room, Angelina checked her luggage making sure that she had everything she needed. Things had come about a lot quicker than she imagined it would, one minute she was waiting for Ithun to announce his free time, not expecting it for several months, the next she was on the phone clearing everything with the Tartarian Foreign office and The Empress.

A week after receiving confirmation from Ithun, she was rushing around packing her bags making sure she was ready for the off. Frowning slightly, she tried to think of anything else she needed, but decided if there was anything she had missed she could easily buy a replacement in Tartarus. Closing the lid of her case, she zipped it up and declared herself finished, which made her feel more than a little relaxed, as it was less that thirty minutes before they were due to leave.

Taking the luggage downstairs, Angelina glanced at her watch and sighed, wondering when time began to go so slow. She was both excited and nervous about the trip ahead. She wanted everyone to meet Ithun and share in her happiness, but at the same time she hoped they were not about to say something that would embarrass her, and she dreaded her mother getting out the photo albums.

What seemed like a lifetime later, she heard the car pull up outside the house, and moved quickly to the door, pulling it open and smiling at the occupant of the car. “I’ll just grab my things, one moment.” She blew Ithun a kiss and moved back inside to pick up her things.

Ithun smiled back at her, getting out of the car and moving towards the entrance to help her with the luggage. He greeted some familiar guards in the garden before he entered the house, looking around for his overly energetic beloved. “You do understand that we shall be back here soon enough and you do not need to take everything along, dear heart?”

He said to her as he picked the heaviest of her bags up, walking out of the house to place them into the trunk of the car. That day was a rare moment when Ithun could be spotted outside wearing a casual civilian outfit instead of his officer uniform. He did pack it up and take it along, just in case need would arise to use it, but he thought that a civilian outfit would suit him finer on a plane to a foreign nation.

The freshly appointed Taraskovyan Foreign Minister smiled at the Tartarian Ambassador as he piled the luggage into the trunk, already imagining what his trip would be, looking forward to every moment of it, even if feeling a little nervous at the idea of meeting Lina’s parents. But, after all, he had all the reasons to deem himself a worthy company for their daughter.

“You do realise you can never have too much luggage?” Angelina looked at her belongings as they put them into the boot of the car, and blushed slightly as she compared the volume of hers to his. She smiled at him sweetly, and pressed her lips to her cheek, her hand resting lightly on his back. “You do want me to look my best, don’t you?” She laughed lightly as she moved around to the passenger door of the car, and smiled at him over the top of the roof.

Climbing inside, she got herself settled and put on her seat belt, before checking out her appearance in a compact mirror she pulled out of her bag. “I want to look good for my mother. She’ll probably tell me I’m not eating enough.” She looked at Ithun and grinned. “You know what mothers are like.” Putting the mirror away, she relaxed back in the seat, feeling the nervousness beginning to build up in her.

“I can’t believe I’m getting worked up about seeing my parents.” She giggled, trying to hide her discomfort. “If I’m feeling like this, I can’t imagine how you must be feeling.” She shook her head. “I’m being silly. Anyway, we’d best get going, otherwise we’ll miss our flight.”

Ithun grinned as he shook his head, giving her a quick glance, before starting the car and setting off on the winding streets of the Capital City, towards the Bridge of Swords. “Do not worry, I doubt they shall set off without first class passengers.” He gave her a wink as a police motorbike took place in front of them, turning on its alarm lights. “And, of course, being a Minister allows me to pull little selfish tricks.”

The small convoy finally reached the bridge, Ithun steering over to a lane reserved to special vehicles, the policeman continuing to escort them. “I hope you have warned some friends or family to meet us there.” Ithun turned his head slightly to look at Angelina, as with a hand he reached over to take hers, stroking her fingers gently. “Somebody is nervous, eh? Worry not, everything shall be fine. I am sure they’ll like me!”

Their car passed by a convoy of military armoured personnel carriers, with Ithun giving a curious glance at the vehicles and at the soldiers atop of them. “Hm… they have began withdrawing the military from the city. This is a good thing.” He returned his gaze to Lina, smiling. “So far, so good, our little journey is starting well enough.”

“I know that I’m worrying about the trip, but I’m not worried about them not liking you.” Angelina smiled and brought his hand up to her lips, pressing a tender kiss to his skin. “I’m more concerned about you not liking them.” She smiled at him. “How could anyone fail to love you?” She relaxed back into the seat, her eyes being drawn to the same spectacle that Ithun had been gazing at, feeling happy for the Taraskovyans that the nation was coming back to a more civilised stance; civil war is never a pleasant experience.

She looked at her watch and calmed down, realising that they had managed to complete that much of the journey so quickly. “I still can’t believe you pulled rank and got us an escort.” She laughed lightly. “The Grand Duke will revoke your priviledges.”

Ithun laughed along as they sped through the bridge, getting nearer to their destination with each passing moment. “Well, if he does revoke my privileges, at least I would have had the opportunity to use them.” He gave her a wink. “I could have taken a Ministerial aircraft, but I thought that it would have been too much fuss coordinating the special corridors and clearances for a private visit. So we shall have to fly like the common of mortals… well, first class common of mortals.” He laughed lightly as he smiled at her.

It was not long before they arrived at the gigantic complex of the Vigvar Internation Aerospace Port. The little convoy took a lane reserved for VIP passengers and up to the departure terminal.
Coming to a halt, Ithun opened his door, getting out of the car, while the door on Angelina’s side was opened by a Taraskath-looking young man in the uniform of a Kornet. Ithun smiled and nodded to him.

“Angelina, in case you have not already met, this is Lath, a good friend and my former adjutant at the Secretariat.” The young unter-officer inclined his head respectfully to the young woman as he offered her his hand to help her out. “An honour to meet you, My Lady. Pan Kapitan, I have warned the company that you might be late.”

Ithun only nodded as he opened the trunk of the car, starting to take out the bags as a member of the airport personnel came towards the car with a carriage, whistled, and took out his radio to call for reinforcements.

Angelina smiled at Lath and took his offered hand. Stepping out of the car she looked about her, surprised at the amount of fuss they had caused at the airport. Of course, she would have been a fool not to expect some reaction to the Foreign Affairs Minister leaving the country, but she had expected something a little more low key. She walked up to Ithun as he pulled the luggage out of the back of the car.

“Ithun, I, ah, wasn’t expecting all this.” She indicated the people around them feeling a little obvious standing there surrounding by all these people. As if by magic the television report that had detailed her rumoured relationship with him sprang to mind, which made her look around for people staring at her. “I thought we would be doing this like normal tourists?” She frowned slightly. “I haven’t got anything like this planned at the other end.”

“Oh, don’t worry, Lina, just a couple porters and Lath,who is here to take the car back to Vigvar, aren’t really that much of a fuss.” Ithun said as he gave her a wink, offering her his arm to lead her into the terminal. “Besides, my face has been on the news for the past week. I am quite sure that the personnel at check in will be staring at me wide eyed. And at you, too.”

He rubbed her arm reassuringly. “But, after all, we have nothing to hide.” The Taraskovyan Foreign Minister smiled again as they walked through the terminal and up to the check in booth. “You want to go along with me or do you wish to wait at a distance so that they don’t see you?” He said with a grin as he halted his advance, turning to face her, looking her into the eyes.

Angelina smiled, but at the same time blushed as Ithun realised her fears. “I’m sorry. It’s just that meeting my parents is kind of…scary I suppose.” She frowned and shook her head sadly. “I feel just like a teenager trying to persuade my parents that just because you have a pierced nose and a mohican, and drive the weirdest thing on four wheels, you aren’t all bad.” She laughed suddenly, her arm tightening on his. “Not that you are like that of course, and I know my parents are going to love you.”

Moving through the terminal, they headed for the check-in, which fortunately was not the busiest of queues, even though she believed that had it been they would have been pushed to the front. Checking in her luggage, she smiled at the woman at the counter, instantly spotting the look of recognition the woman had on her face as she looked at the new Foreign Affairs Minister. Pleasantness itself, the woman soon had their luggage checked and had processed their tickets.

They followed the signs to the lounges and they got themselves comfortable as they waited for their flight. Sitting down on one of the seats, Angelina sat back and turned towards the man she loved. “I know we are going to have such a good time.” She leant forward and kissed him tenderly. “I love you, Ithun.”

“I know.” Ithun said as their lips parted, his eyes looking into hers, the usual spark playing in them each time that he looked at her. “And I love you.” He frowned jokingly all of a sudden, arching an eyebrow the second after. “Earlier you sounded so sure of yourself as if you have actually dated somebody with a pierced nose and a Mohican.” He grinned broadly as he gave her a wink. “You’ll have to tell me about it.”

He sat back in his own chair, wrapping an arm around Angelina’s shoulders and pulling her closer. He kissed the top of her head, inhaling the perfume of her hair. “Pardon me for the bad game of words, but I would have never thought I’d be so impatient to get to Tartarus.” He shook his head, sighing a bit as he shook his head. “Do you think we might meet… ehhh… what was his name already… Lord Stratford?” He blinked for a second before adding with a laughter. “Gosh, I shall make one great Foreign Minister by mixing up foreign dignitaries!”

Angelina laughed and shook her head. “Damn, one secret out of the bag already, and you haven’t even met my parents.” She snuggled against him, resting her head on his shoulder and she leant against him, enjoying this odd piece of normality. She hoped that once they were in Tartarus they could forget everything and just be two people who loved one another very much, instead of a Minister and an Ambassador, having to watch what they said to each other.

“Lord Stratton?” Angelina grimaced as she recalled how she had let the man down the day she had first met Ithun, not that he held any grudges, and everything had worked out very well in the end. “I’m sure I could arrange it if you wish.” She smiled, as she moved her head to look at him carefully, admiring his face like she always did when she looked at him.

“No, it will not be necessary. Just thought you could, sort of, show off in front of him.” Ithun gave Angelina a wink as he put a hand on her knee, stroking it gently. “We shall meet whoever you want us to meet and I’ll be fine with that. Personally, I’d find it nice just staying in bed with you all the time.” He sighed happily as he kissed her forehead, feeling good with just having her by his side.

At that time, a soft woman’s voice could be heard, which invited the first class passengers on the GT Airlines flight to Erebus to proceed to boarding. Ithun smiled contently as he stood up, offering Angelina a hand to help her up. “Well, dear heart, it would seem that we must go take our seats.” His eyes lit up with a special fire as he looked forward to Tartarus already, a million images swarming through his mind as he imagined their arrival.

The flight to Tartarus was uneventful, and the couple passed the time in the time honoured fashion of eating, sleeping and watching the in-flight movies, one of which always tended to be a disaster movie usually depicting a plane in trouble somewhere in it. When the couple were doing none of those, they were either reading or talking softly to each other, and just enjoying being together, even if there was a planeload of people around them.

Eventually the plane touched down and taxied to a stop, allowing them all to depart and head off in search of their luggage, which finally arrived and they made their way out of customs with nothing more than a cursory glance of recognition, but as neither were there on official business they were allowed to continue through without pomp.

Having booked a hire care, the couple climbed inside, this time Angelina at the wheel as Ithun made himself comfortable in the passenger seat. She looked over at him and smiled. “In an hour and a half, you will be face to face with my family. Now is the time to tell me if you have had second thoughts and want to back out of the visit.” She grinned and gunned the engine, not giving him time to respond.

“Ack! Tactical retreat! Tactical retreat!” Ithun squealed with a comedy voice as he erupted into laughter, making himself comfortable in the passenger seat as they drove out of the airport grounds. “Your words reminded me of a story that happened to me during my Academy years, during a combat drill. There were two teams, the Blue and the Green. I was on the Green team, part of a squad that was charged with attacking the enemy from behind.” He paused for a second, smiling at her, taking the time to admire his beloved behind the wheel of a car, before he continued.

“So our commander, a funny man that had nothing to do at the army and who was transferred into a non-combat unit following this event, leads us, when suddenly one of us says into the intercom: 'Double One at Midday!' Translated into normal language, this means enemy to the north. So we most stealthily engage the enemy to the north, our stealthy approach alerting a bit every single Blue guy in the area to our presence.” He fought erupting into laughter as he continued.

“So we take position among some rocks and hold it, with the enemy coming from the North. You have the soldiers crying: 'Midday!' But then, suddenly, one of us starts shouting into the intercom: 'Midnight! Midnight!' So the commander looks behind us, to the South, and spots an incoming enemy unit. He stares at it for a couple seconds before squealing into the intercom: 'Ack! Tactical retreat! Tactical retreat!'” With that, Ithun erupted into laughter as the images of his past days filled his mind.

Angelina laughed, allowing herself a brief glance at Ithun before her attention was once more focused on the road ahead. She shook her head and grinned. “You Taraskovyans are mad, I swear.” She looked at him again her eyes twinkling with humour. “That is entirely off the record, by the way. I don’t want you to start throwing around your ministerial might.” Turning the car, she pulled onto the main highway that would lead them into the heart of Erebus.

The drive continued in the same vein, with light hearted conversation and Angelina pointed out locations of interest, giving Ithun a brief view of her homeland. The closer she got to home, the more nervous she could feel herself growing. Why? She did not know, and she continuingly berated herself silently for being so foolish. The odd glance that she managed to grab of Ithun made her feel better, and she knew that once they arrived everything would be fine.

Angelina’s family home was away from the heart of the capital, but close enough to be classed as being a part of it. Winding the car through the busy roads and skipping down the odd shortcut that she knew, it was an hour and a half after they had entered the car that they pulled through the gates of a large house, not some country manor, but a home that indicated those inside had never had to want for anything.

Bringing the car to a halt, Angelina spotted the twitching of a downstairs curtain and turned to Ithun. “Well, here we are.” She gave him a smile, and swung open her door to climb out, just as the main door to the house opened.

Ithun grinned as they came to a stop, a mixture of nervousness and curiousity filling him as he gave a glance about the house by which they were. “Nice house there.” He said as he opened the door on his side to get out of the vehicle, taking a deep breath of the fresh air outside. Compared to what he had already been through, such a ‘formality’ as meeting the parents of a girl he was with should have been like a breeze. Yet, he knew that this time it was no ‘formality’ and Angelina was no simple girl.

“Uhm… do we go to the house or do I get the luggage out… or… euh… well, yes, from the boot?” He blinked for a couple seconds, standing still, before he shut the door of the car closed and looked up at Angelina.

Waving at the figure that had appeared by at the door, Angelina smiled before turning her attention to Ithun. “We’ll get the luggage in a bit. Let’s go and greet my parents.” She moved around the car, coming up to her lover and placing her hand in his, squeezing gently. She pressed a kiss to his lips and grinned. “My mother has come to greet us, she’s a little impatient. But you have nothing to worry about; she will love you, almost as much as I do.”

She headed off towards the house, the figure at the doorway stepping forward slightly ready to greet the couple as they moved the short distance to the house. Angelina smiled warmly, as she let go of Ithun’s hand, and embraced her mother. She turned to her companion. “Ithun, I would like you to meet my mother, Catherine Ormond,” she turned to her mother. “Mother, I would like you to meet, Ithun Khat.” Her eyes twinkled as she spoke his name.

Catherine smiled, and presented her hand to Ithun. “It is a pleasure to meet you, Ithun. I would like to say that Angelina has told us a lot about you, but I would be lying.” She laughed lightly as she looked at her daughter and Ithun, and pointed towards the door. “Let’s go and have some refreshments and introduce you to the rest of the family.”

Angelina blinked. Rest of the family? She grimaced then taking hold of Ithun’s hand, she followed her mother into the house.

Ithun clacked his heels as he bowed to kiss Catherine’s hand. “It is an honour to meet you, My Lady.” He said as he straightened back, giving Angelina’s mother a smile. “I must admit Angelina has been a true Bielorussian partisan and did not say much about you either. This will only make our meeting even more interesting.”

He squeezed Angelina’s hand a little as the two followed Catherine into the house, the young Taraskovyan already thinking about not only how his lover’s parents would react, but also how the ‘rest of the family’ would. The even, it would have seemed, had just grown in proportion and importance…

Catherine laughed as she saw the look on their faces. “I only meant your father and Peter, who came home especially when he heard you were coming back and bringing, Ithun.” She looked at him quizzically. “Do you mind if I call you that? I really detest all this Mrs, Lady, Ma’am stuff. This is a home, and you are practically family. Call me Catherine.” She laughed lightly. “Let’s not put on any airs and graces during your visit.”

She continued to lead them through the house towards the lounge, where the family tended to gather when they had guests. She chatted on about this and that, mainly the weather, the flight over and general little tit-bits.

Angelina turned and smiled at Ithun, her voice lowered as she whispered. “I don’t know what we were so worried about.” She squeezed his hand, and continued down the hall.

“Of course, My Lady… Euh… I mean, Catherine, you can call me Ithun.” Ithun blinked for a second before smiling as they walked down to the lounge. He nodded to Angelina, a smile on his lips, as he whispered back. “So far, so good. And it is especially good since it is, in a way, my first ever foreign visit as Minister.” He gave her a wink as he freed his hand from hers, only to wrap it around her waist, pulling her closer to give her a kiss on the cheek.

“I hope we shall be settled in a single room.” He gave her an other wink as he began to get assured of himself in front of the people he could consider as a new family, assured enough to even allow himself a couple jokes.

“I wouldn’t push your luck you know, you’ll be lucky if we have adjoining rooms.” Angelina kept a very serious look on her face, only breaking into a smile when she thought he could not it.

Catherine pushed open the door to the room and smiled. “They are here.” She stepped aside to let Angelina and Ithun into the room, before following in behind them. Moving quickly, she managed to get back in front of the couple pointing first to her husband and then her son, as she introduced them to her guest. “Ithun, this is my husband, Samuel and my son, Peter.” She then turned to her family. “Everyone, this is Ithun, and you all know Lina.”

She smiled and waved them deeper into the room, as the other two men moved forward to shake his hand and offer some words of greeting. Angelina gave both a hug and smiled happily, feeling much more comfortable than she had all day.

Catherine once more took over the proceedings. “Sit down, Ithun and I’ll get us some refreshments. Are you okay with tea and coffee?”

Ithun greeted the two men with all the politeness proper to a Taraskovyan officer and noble, shaking their hands, before he accepted Catherine’s invitation to sit down, choosing a couch that had enough place for him and for Angelina, should she choose to sit beside him. “I shall have some tea, if you please.” Ithun answered Catherine, before his gaze fell on his beloved. He felt good just seeing her happy, surrounded by her family. After all, not only was she amongst her kin, but she was also home, a feeling that nothing could replace.

Ithun gave a look about the lounge, noting some particularly interesting elements of decoration, before he looked back at Samuel and Peter. He pondered how to start the conversation, his mind covering a million ideas in less than a second, before settling upon one of the most appropriate ones. “I am honoured that you accepted to host me and Lina for a time and I already promise not to intrude anymore than I already have and not to be of any major annoyance.” He smiled, hoping that his joke was not in vain.

Angelina finished hugging her brother and turned to see Ithun taking a seat on the couch. Giving Peter a smile, she moved quickly over and sat down beside him, knowing how hard it must be for him to suddenly find himself amongst strangers. She reached over and took his hand, interweaving her fingers with his, as she looked at him, her eyes sparkling with her feelings and happiness.

Laughing lightly, Catherine shook her head and waved her hand at the young man, as if to stop him. “You are most welcome in our home, Ithun. It is not often that Angelina brings someone to meet us, especially someone so special to her.” She flicked a glance as her daughter, noting her total look of disbelief. If Ithun had been looking at her, he would have notice her rolling her eyes.

“Ithun, we understand congratulations are in order.” Samuel spoke from his position across the room, as he once more took his seat. “It must have been an honour to receive such a rank in the Taraskovyan government, especially for your age.” He smiled; having himself worked his way through various government roles he knew how it felt.

Catherine nodded. “We were surprised to hear you were still coming, once Angelina had told us.” She looked at her husband. “When Sam took up several of his roles, we barely saw him for days.”

“Although we still suspect he was under a table somewhere, following heavy celebrating.” Angelina laughed lightly, as she repeated a long standing family joke that somehow they all still reacted to.

The Taraskovyan Foreign Minister looked at Angelina, a twinkle in his eyes, as he said quietly. “Well, I remember very well where we were after celebrating.” He smiled happily and looked back at Samuel, inclining his head politely to the man. “Thank you, Sir. Indeed, it did come as very unexpected to me and I had some doubts as of whether accepting the job, but I had a good advisor…” He gave a glance at Angelina, smiling, before looking back at her father. “Who told me to accept the position. But that should remain secret, there are many in Tarasovka who would find such a fact very… uhm… unacceptable.”

With that he looked back at Catherine, smiling politely. “Well, I did want to come here to meet with you, but my coming depended solely on the Grand Duke’s decision. Thankfully, we do not yet have a Parliament that could start an uproar about the Grand Duke’s decisions, so he was swift to agree to let me go. On the condition that I return before the Parliamentary elections that are due in a bit more than a month.”

Angelina blushed slightly, which was spotted easily by her eagle eyed mother, who smiled and grinned to herself, remembering herself what it was to be young. She moved over to the table, and poured Ithun a cup of tea, making it without adding milk, sugar or lemon, depending on his taste. She turned to the young man and smiled. “How do you like your tea, Ithun?”

As Catherine continued with the drink, Samuel nodded to the Taraskovyan Minister. “You can rest assured that no one will learn that knowledge from us.” He smiled, his eyes flicking to Angelina. “She can be very persuasive.”

A laugh came from the direction of the refreshment table. “She certainly managed to persuade Peter to into more than his fair share of trouble.” She looked over at her son, who was two years older than his sister. “She had him wrapped around her little finger.” She shot a smile at the young man. “And she still does.”

“I’m sure Ithun isn’t interested in such things.” Angelina gave her mother a look that was not at all meant seriously, her smile indicating as much. “Do you?” She turned and looked into his eyes, smiling with happiness and fun. “I mean, they really are going to spoil my image.”

“With three teaspoons of sugar and some lemon, if you please.” Ithun smiled at Catherine before looking over at Angelina’s father and then at her brother. “Oh, if you knew all the troubles I have got myself into during my life, you’d be surprised.” He smiled broadly as he looked back at Lina, wrapping an arm around her shoulder and shaking her a little, playfully. “Oh, but I am very much interested in what they have to say. Besides… I doubt anything could ruin your image.”

He moved his arm to rub her back as he looked her into the eyes for a moment before looking at Catherine who finished serving his drink. “Thank you, Ma’a… Catherine.” The young officer bit his lower lip for a second before smiling at the woman.

Catherine finished giving Ithun his cup and headed back off to serve drinks for the rest of the family. She smiled to herself, seeing how happy and content her daughter was looking, even if her expression belied this fact, due to the faint blush of her cheeks and the glint in her eye. Like Angelina had mentioned to Ithun, Catherine had imagined her daughter would become too wrapped up in her career to find someone to spend her life with, and now she had found someone through her work.

Angelina smiled, and wrapped her arm around Ithun briefly before her mother brought her over her cup. “I just think that they should let you get settled before they tell you all my little stories.” She laughed. “I don’t want you running off until we’ve at least brought the cases in.”

Her father grinned, and took a sip of his coffee, that Catherine had just presented him with. “I hope Angelina is planning to show you around Erebus, and hopefully further. It would be such a waste for you to come all this way and only see us Ormonds.”

For the first time, other than during the introductions, Peter spoke. “I would be honoured to take you anywhere that Angelina does not want to visit. It would be nice to learn more about the man who finally tamed this hellcat.” He winked at his sister, and received a pleasant smile in return despite her next words.

“Someone is so going to pay for causing me trouble.” She suddenly burst out laughing to show no harm was intended, and then turned to Ithun. “It would probably be nice to spend some time with Peter without me. I’ll just have to fill my time shopping instead.”

Catherine laughed, as she finally took her own seat and tasted her tea. “Such a sacrifice, Lina.” She shook her head.

“I do wonder what kind of places Angelina would not want to visit… so I accept yor invitation with joy, Peter.” Ithun said as he looked at the young man, inclining his head politely, before turning back to Lina. “And I doubt I’ll be running off soon. We have dated tickets, after all.” He arched his brow pensively as he continued. “Of course, should things get stinky-poo, I could always run to the NashSec folks crying: ‘Help! Help!’ But I doubt I’ll need to do that.”

He smiled broadly as he sipped his tea and then looked at the Ormonds, pensively. “Which makes me wonder whether we should not bring our… uhm… most small and not at all imposing luggage…” He winked to Angelina before continuing. “… in and maybe settle down. So, once this done, we shall have all the time to speak without any idea of upcoming labour clouding our minds.”

Angelina nodded and smiled at Ithun, quickly sipping the rest of her tea. “Yes, we probably should get settled before it gets too late. I’m already starting to feel more than a little tired.” She laughed lightly. “That’s what I hate about travelling.” She rose from the chair and taking Ithun’s cup, walked over and placed them on the table. She gazed over at her mother questioningly, and received a nod in return to her unspoken question.

She looked at Ithun as she approached and took hold of his hand, gently guiding him to his feet. “We’ll be back in a little while. I want to freshen up a little.” The family said a few last words and told Ithun how happy they were to meet him, before the couple exited the room.

Angelina paused just outside and pressed a kiss to Ithun’s lips. “It is going very well.” She smiled. “I think they like you. Not that I can blame them.” She squeezed his hand and led them towards the door.

“Well, they are nice people. And I am already looking forward to what they would tell me about you.” Ithun gave Angelina a wink as they walked through the hallway and outside, where he grabbed her around the waist, whirled her around and, pressing her against the wall of the house, gave her a lengthy, passionate kiss. And as it came to an end and he broke the kiss, Ithun looked her into the eyes, smiling. “Ah, always wanted to do that. No idea why. Just one of my little phantasms.”

With that, he arched an eyebrow pensively, giving a look to his surroundings. “What was your father doing, again? I do remember you telling me he was a diplomat, but I admit I have forgotten the details.”

Being caught by surprise by his actions, Angelina took a moment to answer his question. Her arms looped around his neck, as she gazed into his eyes, lost in them for a moment. “For one, you are not hearing all my little stories, despite how much my mother loves to embarrass me with them. If I have to, I will lock you in the bedroom the whole time you are here…and I don’t mean with me either.” She gave him a wink as she broke into a smile.

She pressed a brief kiss to his lips. “My father was a diplomat, though he is semi-retired. He works more in an advisory role now.” She gently stroked the back of his neck with her finger. “The Empress has been making sweeping changes to everything that she can, but she is trying to hold onto some of the traditional elements of the Empire, and my father is almost old enough to be a tradition.” She laughed lightly.

“We should go and get the luggage.” She grimaced. “I really feel like I need a shower. I hate travelling.” Kissing him again, she loosened her grip on him, separating herself from him.

Ithun smiled and let her go as they walked over to the boot of the car. “Well, if you lock me up, I could always jump out of the window with the bedspread for improvised parachute. Taraskovyan military parachutists can do that and even more!” He chuckled, pausing pensively before continuing. “You know, if we take photographs of such an event and then sell them to the Grand Ducal yellow press, we could make millions!”

He laughed as they reached the car and Ithun opened the boot, giving a glance about the luggage and handing Angelina the least heavy ones. “Take care of this one, there’s my uniform in it.” He took care of the other bags. “Oof! Reminds me of my Cadet days. We were twelve years old and had to walk around with backpacks twice our heights during drills out in the wild.” He chuckled again as he looked up at her. “Well, lead the way. You know this place better than I do.”

Angelina looked at Ithun and laughed. “Are you suggesting that I have brought too much with me?” She shook her head and stopped him with her free hand. “Let me take something else. I have two hands, and I believe I have them for a purpose. Besides, my mother will think I’m abusing you if I make you do all the hard work.” Laughing, she showed that this was not really the case, but she wanted to help the man she loved, rather than watch him struggle.

Not waiting for him to protest, she managed to free one of the other bags from his grasp and carried it towards the house. She smiled to herself, happy that she had him in her home. It did not matter how much she loved being in Tarasovka, Tartarus would always be the place her heart was. And having Ithun there, made her feel so much more complete.

Once they entered the front door, she guided them up the stairs, making sure she did not cause any harm to his uniform while she struggled with the other bag. Finally, and slightly out of breath, she reached the landing and guided them to a bedroom, the one she had used when she was growing up. She dropped the bag on the floor and carefully draped the uniform over the back of a chair.

Waiting until he lowered the rest of the luggage, she wrapped her arms around him and kissed him tenderly. “I’m so glad you are here.”

Wrapping his arms around Angelina’s waist, Ithun lifted her up, separating her feet from the floor as he gave her another kiss on the lips before sliding down to her neck. “Well, so far I have been given no reasons to complain.” He sighed happily as he looked on her face, admiring her traits for a moment. “Now, somebody wanted to take a shower, eh?” He said as he shook her in his arms before resting her back on the floor.

He looked about the room, glancing at the luggage, still keeping her firmly locked in his arms. “I suddenly wonder if you’ve taken your own towels or counted on your family to provide for some. I, for one, took one along.” He looked her back into the eyes as he smiled. “Well, if you are going for the shower, I shall be most eager to… uhm… rub your back or provide any other assistance you might require.” He leant forward to place a kiss on her forehead, loosening his grip on her while still embracing her.

Angelina looked up into his eyes and smiled. “I didn’t realise you Taraskoyyans had such a good foreign service.” She gently brushed her lips against his as she spoke, almost a kiss but not quite. “Who am I to refuse my very own back washer?” Moving slightly, she pressed a kiss to his lips, before pulling back to once more look in his. “Perhaps I can negotiate a deal where you get to wash more than my back,” her voice growing raspy as she spoke.

Her fingers slid down his arms, until she was able to grasp his hands in hers. A smile grew on her lips as she briefly flicked her eyes to their luggage and then the door, which was still open. Without saying a word, she released one of his hand and stretched over to the door, kicking it shut with her foot, and then she headed toward the ensuite bathroom, pulling his hand slightly.

As she reached the door, she looked at the luggage again. “We can unpack later. We won’t be needing anything in them for a while.” She winked and grinned, as she pushed open the bathroom door.

The door to the shower booth opened, letting forth a generous load steam as Ithun came out, smiling like a happy cat. He pulled Angelina along, pressing her body against his as he kissed her on the lips, her arms around his neck. He slid down to collect the drops of water on her neck and shoulders with his lips, sighing contently. “Ah, this was most reinvigorating.”

He reached out for a towel, wrapping it around her, only then getting one for himself. “Do you think your mother prepared a dinner? Which would mean for us going downstairs.” He smiled at her as he brushed away some stray hair from her face, sliding his fingers over her cheek until her took her chin gently, tracing his thumb over her lower lip. “You are so beautiful…” He said as he leant forward to kiss her tenderly.

“You say the nicest things.” Angelina smiled, and tucked the top of her towel in to stop it slipping from her body, as she grabbed another and wrapped it around her hair. “You need not worry about dinner, it will be late. My father was always in the habit of late dining if ever he flew into Tartarus from abroad. The tradition has kind of stuck for anyone staying in the house.” She ran her finger lightly over his chest. “Which means there is no need to rush off downstairs.”

She pressed another kiss to his lips, before walking back into her bedroom, and sitting on the edge of the bed. She could hear Ithun re-entering the room, and her gaze followed him as he walked over to her. “Come sit down and relax.” She patted the bed beside her with her hand. “There is time for a nap if you want one.” Her eyes never left his face as he moved about the room.

Ithun smiled pensively as he walked over to the bed, sitting down next to her. “Whether I want a nap? Hmmm… good question. I do not feel tired. Do you?” He wrapped an arm around her waist, resting the other hand on her knee as he leant over to kiss the back of her neck. “But then again, I could do with a nap. On condition that I have a good pillow.” He said with a grin as he fell on his back, pulling her along.

He then rested on his elbow, looking at her from above as with his free hand he unwrapped the towel around her body. With a grin, he lay down, resting his head on her chest, sighing happily. “Ah, this is perfect! Soft, warm and cosy, just the right kind of pillow!” He nuzzled against her flesh a little to confirm his words.

Angelina smiled, her hand moving to his head, her fingers stroking over his hair. She tilted her head and pressed a tender kiss to his head, as her other hand found his chin, and with a gentle pressure, she guided him up until his face was level with hers. “I’m not that tired yet.” She murmured softly, as she gazed into his eyes, her hand moving down his head, until it rested on the back of his neck. “Maybe there is something that will help me sleep,” her breath sounded raspy.

She pulled him down into a kiss, her free hand moving onto his back, as she pulled him down against her naked body. Her fingers slid lightly down his spine, until they come in contact with his towel. A bit of tugging soon had him in the same state of undress as she found herself. Breaking the kiss, she smiled up at him, as she playfully squeezed his butt.

“Mmm,” she pondered for a moment, as she moved the hand off his neck, and pulled the towel from her hair, dropping it onto the floor. “Do you have any ideas?” The mischievous glint in her eye and the smile on her lips indicated that she did.

“Maybe I do have an idea.” Ithun said, with a mischief in his smile and a spark in his eyes, as he pulled her up on the bed so that they lay entirely on it. He then kissed her again as their bodies, still wet from the shower, pressed against each other, their hands moving on them as they stroked, caressed and fondled. He broke the kiss, pulling back a little as he looked her body over, smiling.

“You know, I am sure a horde of men would kill to be in my position. As such, I think I have all the rights to enjoy my… erm… situation to the fullest.” He chuckled as he came down to place a kiss on her neck, gliding down to her shoulders and then to her chest, going lower, but slowly, enjoying every second. And as his mouth was still above, his hands already found their way below, spreading her thighs and preparing her for what was to come in not long a time.

Closing her eyes, as her body was flooded with sensations, Angelina lost herself in the moment. She guided him back into a passionate kiss, her arms wrapping around him as he claimed her, and began the journey that would take them both to heaven and back.

* * * * *

Blinking open her eyes, Angelina was surprised to find the light in the room was beginning to fade. Her body was wrapped in Ithun’s embrace, her head resting on his shoulder, her arm lying across his chest, as she lay against his right side, her leg looped over his. She murmured softly as sleep began to become a distant memory, as she moved her body in small motions bringing it to life.

She ran her fingers over his chest, as she tilted her head to look at his face. He was still sleeping, which made her smile, and move a little more to place a tender kiss on his lips. Her movements caused him to stir, with made her stop briefly until he seemed to settle down again. She brushed her fingers lightly over his cheek, as she gazed down into his face, her eyes filled with her love for him.

Glancing around, she caught sight of the clock, discovering it had already become late afternoon. Frowning slightly, she turned back to Ithun, and kissed his cheek, her hand lightly resting on his chest. “Ithun,” she whispered softly, wanting him to come out of gently. “Ithun, it’s time to wake up.” She kissed him again as she felt him begin to stir.

He sighed lazily as he began to wake up, opening his eyes a bit to look at her face above his. He stretched, wrapping his arms tighter around her, pressing her body against his as he reached to kiss her on the cheek. He blinked a couple times, opening his eyes, and smiled at her, bringing a head up to her head to gently stroke her hair. “Good whatever time it is. Slept well?” He said with a grin as he looked around.

“Mmmm… you have a bad influence on me. I should have normally been up, fully dressed and combat ready in a minute.” He chuckled as his hands went up and down her body as he enjoyed just her being naked in his arms. “But I have to admit that waking up in this fashion is much better.” He pulled her down into a lengthy, tender kiss. “You know, nothing compares to claiming your beloved in her parents’ house, especially in the very bed she grew up in.”

He sighed happily, as he traced the contour of her lips with his finger. “All of a sudden, I don’t feel like going anywhere. Will your parents mind if we skip dinner?”

Angelina ran her finger lightly over his chest, her eyes fixed to his, as she pressed another kiss to his lips. “They will be expecting us, and more importantly, I am starving.” Her eyes twinkled with mischief as she moved her hands suddenly, and began to tickle Ithun furiously, laughing as she did so. “And this will teach you to be so smug, Mr Foreign Minister.” She continued for a moment, then collapse against him, wrapping her arms around him.

“But seriously, we should go down to dinner.” She kissed him again briefly then sat up, stretching her body. “My parents have been looking forward to meeting you, for some strange reason, and they’ll never forgive me if I keep you hidden up here.” She faced him again and grinned. “Plus, you need some sustenance. I might have need for you later.” She winked, before climbing off the bed, padding over to the luggage to retrieve some clothing.

Ithun sat up in the bed, his eyes never leaving her as she walked through the room, as he admired the natural grace in each of her moves. “Well, I’ve already told you and I shall repeat it again: you look much better without clothes.” He smiled as he stretched a little, getting out of bed to walk over to his own luggage. He quickly retrieved some clothes, specifically some undergarments, putting them on as he pondered what kind of clothes to use for the occasion. At least, he tried to, his thoughts distracted by the woman searching through the bags in front of him, he smiled when she glanced at him, causing her to smile in return, as they looked each other in the eyes for a moment. Then she went back to her searches as he had an idea.

He walked over to the chair over which the garment bag was draped over. He took it to the bed, laying it down and opening it to reveal his uniform. He smiled as he began dressing up, putting the various pieces on, adjusting them in front of the mirror. He fixed the scabbard with the dagger, adjusted the dark blue beret and then went over to another one of his bags to retrieve the boots that were part of the uniform. Putting them on, he clacked his heels, bringing his hand to his forehead in military salute as he looked at Angelina. “Captain Khat ready for service, My Lady!”

Angelina had been too busy getting dressed to notice what Ithun was doing, other than the odd glance in his direction which was more to make sure he was getting ready rather than what he was getting ready in. When she finally looked at him and saw what he was wearing her jaw dropped open and her eyes were wide with surprise.

“Ithun, please tell me that you are not seriously wearing that to dinner?” She ran her gaze over his body, and despite her actually thinking he looked very handsome in his uniform, she was frowning. “It’s just dinner with my parents. They are going to think you are being funny with them.” She shook her head as she walked over to him. “You have ten minutes to get changed, soldier!” She grinned and walked past him, slapping his butt playfully.

Ithun arched an eyebrow cunningly as he turned around, looking at Angelina’s back as he reached her in a couple steps, wrapping his arms around her and pulling her against him, as with his hands he cupped her breasts through the fabric of her clothes, squeezing her flesh gently. “As they say, an eye for an eye, a breast for a buttock!” He chuckled, leaning forward to place a kiss on her neck, before he let her go as he took off his beret and put it on her head.

“Ma’am, yes, Ma’am!” He said with a serious expression on his face as he went back to the bed, taking his uniform off and piling it accurately on where not so long ago he and Lina were experiencing the greatest of pleasures. He then found some ordinary clothes in his bag and put them on, looking back at her. “Better now?” He asked as he smiled at her. “That beret fits you nicely, you know.”

Angelina smiled, and placed a kiss on his lips. “You are incorrigible.” She shook her head, trying not to laugh. “We will never get to dinner at this rate, and my parents will be very upset, and they probably won’t have us back again.” Despite her stern expression her eyes revealed that she was teasing. “Mother will be up here soon banging on the door wondering what we are doing.” She grinned, knowing her mother would not interrupt them, just in case she walked in on something she would not want to.

Returning to her luggage, she search for a pair of pumps, rather than the usual heeled court shoes she favoured at work, and quickly slipped them on her feet. “If you are ready, Mr Minister?” She ran her eyes appreciatively over his body. “We don’t have to stay with them long; we can claim to be jet lagged or something. Anyway, we don’t want to sleep in tomorrow, as I want to show you around.

“It is all right. We will stay with them all the time we need or until you feel tired. After all, I am quite enduring.” Ithun winked as he walked up to Angelina. He wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her closer by his side. “And as of sleeping in tomorrow… well, it shall depend on what we do after dinner. I guess I will, as usual, wake up before sunrise.” He smiled broadly as he moved his arm to stroke her spine. “So I guess I could just wake you up. At any rate, I think you should lead the way, you know this house better.”

But as they walked towards the door of the room, his eyes suddenly lit up as he looked her into the eyes. “Remember our night in Devras and how I woke you up before sunrise? This was a great time... I rather miss not being able to wake up with you in my arms every day.”

Angelina smiled and took hold of Ithun’s hand, bringing it up to her lips and placing a tender kiss on his knuckles. “I would love to be able to wake up with you every morning – not before dawn though.” She grinned momentarily before returning to a more serious tone. “One day, perhaps, but already there is speculation in your press about our relationship, which although we have the blessing of the Grand Duke, might not be so widely accepted by everyone else, especially not this soon into the new government.”

She smiled, and tilted her head towards him, kissing him tenderly and then, leading him by the hand, guided him out of the bedroom, where her family were waiting for them.

* * * * *

Angelina blinked open her eyes, and wished suddenly that she had left them shut. The sun was blazing through the window, casting its spiny bright fingers across the room. Her head felt like it was going to explode if she saw any more light, and the bed had begun to spin, which did nothing for the contents of her stomach. She once more peeked into the morning, managing just to keep her eyes from rebelling.

She turned over in the bed, her arm not finding what she was expecting. She frowned slightly, as she looked at the empty bed. If her head was spinning before, it was positively aching to explode. Lifting her head, with a groan, she looked around the room, her eyes falling on the familiar form of her love.

“What time is it?” She asked sleepily, even if she could have turned her head and seen for herself. Her hand went up to her forehead, and then slide through her hair. “Please tell me its well after dawn?” She gave him a weak smile, before falling back into the bed, as she pulled the sheet over her head. “Remind me, no more celebrating for the rest of our stay.”

Ithun stood by the window, looking at something outside that attracted his attention, when his attention was caught by the sounds of Angelina’s awakening. He turned around, his back to the glass and his hands on the window-sill, his eyes now resting on her figure in the bed. He smiled as she reached out with her hand searching for him, and then as she looked around, her eyes settling upon him for a moment before she vanished beneath the sheets.

“It is eleven in the morning, dear heart.” His hands parted with the window-sill as he walked slowly up to the bed, sitting himself carefully next to her. His hands traced her shape beneath the sheets until they reached the level of her face, his fingers grabbing the edge of the sheet and pulling it slowly down, enough to reveal her eyes. “You were so cutely cuddled up that I did not dare wake you up.”

He smiled, leaning forward to place a kiss on her forehead. And as he sat back, he rested a hand on her head, stroking her hair gently. “I’ve had my breakfast, had a chat with your father on Erebus. He advised the usual – museums, theatres.” He smiled as he gave her a wink. “Do you want me to give you some Taraskovyan anti-hangover pills? Quite efficient they are.”

Angelina peaked over the top of the sheet and smiled up at Ithun, mumbling almost incoherently, “Yes, please, they sound wonderful. I think I should take one if we are going sightseeing today.” She was not sure how much he had actually heard, but regardless he produced the tablets which she took as quickly as possible, before lying in the bed for a while, until she felt settled enough to be able to attempt to climb out of bed.

An hour later, the couple were standing outside the house, beside the car. Angelina was feeling like her old self again, as she looked over at Ithun and smiled. “So, you want to see Erebus by car, or do you fancy going down market and taking the metro?” She looked at him for a moment and then shook her head. “Car, I think. I would hate to be linked to some story involving the Taraskovyan Foreign Minister being murdered on a tube.”

Clicking the button, to unlock the car doors, she smiled at Ithun. “Lunch first, I think, being as I’ve not had breakfast. We can start the sightseeing properly tomorrow.” She pulled open the door and climbed inside, fastening her seatbelt as she waited for him to get comfortable. “Any preference on food?”

Ithun climbed into the passenger’s seat, making himself comfortable and putting on his own seatbelt. He looked at her pensively as he considered her question, before shrugging and making a dismissive gesture of his hand. “You have the tactical and cartographic knowledge of the surrounding area, so you choose the supply point.” He chuckled as he looked at her puzzled face. “Translated from militarish, it means that you get to pick the restaurant. Sorry, just had to tease you a little.”

He gave her a wink before looking out of the window of the car, suddenly arching his brow and turning around to get a full view of his surroundings. “I just hope none of the Taraskovyan dignitaries present at our Embassy has the great idea to provide me with a NashSec escort.” He smiled as he looked back at her. “But well, with all the private side to my visit, I still have at least one ministerial privilege left.” He paused for a second, a smile playing on his lips. “I still have my own chauffeur.”

Turning her head to face Ithun, Angelina cocked her brow questioningly. “Oh, so I’m your official chauffeur now, am I?” She laughed lightly as she turned the key and gunned the engine. She drove out of her parent’s gates and headed off to the heart of Erebus, once again pointing out various locations of interest, some of which she notes for a closer look in the days of their visit.

Twenty minutes later, in one of the more secluded areas of the old town, she pulled into one of the side streets, and stopped outside a little café. On the pavement, there was a sprinkling of tables and chairs, which partially sat under the awning over the front of the building.

“This is one of my favourites, homemade Tartarian.” Angelina grinned as she unbuckled her seat and pushed open her door. Before climbing out, she looked over at Ithun. “Do you mind spicy? If you prefer, there is a little deli just down the road a bit.”

“Spicy in Tartarus? Something tells me it is going to be… fiery.” Ithun chuckled as he gave her a wink. “If you want spicy, then we shall have spicy.” He said as he got out of the car, giving a glance around his surroundings, noting some particular elements that attracted his attention, smiling politely to some people in greeting. His eyes quickly lay upon Angelina who was, by then, already outside, closing her door. Ithun did the same as he allowed himself another round of gazing about.

“Quite an interesting place this is.” He went around the car, joining up with his beloved, and took Angelina’s hand, squeezing it gently as his fingers mingled with hers. “I am already looking forward to seeing more of the city. But before satisfying my curiosity, we should satisfy your stomach.” He smiled as he rubbed her tummy gently. “Wouldn’t want to lose my official chauffeur and guide before time.”

“You do realise, if you keep calling me your official chauffeur, I’m going to be invoicing the Taraskovyan government for expenses?” Angelina looked at him with a raised eyebrow and then laughed, as she walked around the car towards Ithun and linked her arm through his. “How would they like to know that you have been abusing your position so early into your new role?”

She led them to the door, but stopped short before entering. “Now, are you really sure you want spicy?” She looked at him questioningly. “I am more than happy for something light now and spicy later.” Moving her free hand, she gently tapped his stomach. “I don’t want to cause trouble to the delicate balance of your insides, at least not this early into the visit.” She pressed a kiss to his cheek and grinned playfully.

“This list contains all the food and drinks that are forbidden to you for the next year at least.” Ithun sat up in his hospital bed, frowning a little as his entire body ached from it, and looked the list over as it went on and on and on. “That is quite… a lot.” The bearded doctor nodded, looking at his patient through his glasses. “My young man, the fact that you still live is not simply a miracle, but far beyond it. Your organism has been not only damaged by the various shreds and projectiles, but also totally saturated with various combat stimulants and drugs.”

The young officer grimaced as the pain in the various parts of his body began to grow, and he collapsed back on the pillow. “How long will I stay here?” The doctor just shrugged. “An other two months at least. Maybe more.” “Why don’t you put me into a tank?” The doctor’s eyes went wide as he exclaimed. “Your body has already had its share of various agents! Putting you into a healing tank could finish off the natural healing and resistance functions of your body.”

Ithun turned his head to look the doctor into the eyes, lingering for a moment, his ones filled with a million questions. “Everybody avoids telling me… but… it has been weeks. I need to know…” The doctor sighed and shook his head. “You are the sole survivor of the Seventy Fourth.” “Nobody else?” “Nobody.”

***

Ithun stood silent as memories flooded his mind before shaking his head a little. “Indeed, considering my past… experiences… it would be best not to put my insides into jeopardy.” He smiled as he led her off towards the café. Even if it has been years since he was given the orders by the doctor, he did not feel like risking. And this made him feel strange…

Angelina smiled and guided them up the street to the delicatessen, her armed linked through Ithun’s. “I don’t know if you want to take a trip to the Taraskovyan Embassy while you are here, it might be a good idea to keep them informed of your whereabouts.” She peaked at his profile, as they walked. “I’d hate for people to lose track of you and then have me arrested for losing the Foreign Minister.” Grinning she pushed open the door to the café and entered, feeling the cool air from inside.

Making her way to a table, she had unhooked her arm, and had taken hold of his hand instead. “This looks like a nice one, away from the window, but still able to see out.” She released his hand and took her seat, making herself comfortable and picking up one of the little menu cards from the table. “Once we’ve eaten, we can wander around the streets around here, there are come nice little curio shops.” She looked up from the list. “And we can decide where we are going to visit tomorrow.”

“Oh, our Embassy knows quite well of my presence here. At least, I am sure the Ambassador knows. But it wouldn’t hurt paying him a visit and see what he is like. After all, he was appointed by the Ruling Council, and having known Kumysov for quite some time, I am eager to see whether I should suggest to the Grand Duke to replace his representative here.” Ithun smiled as he glanced over the list of proposed meals.

“And don’t look at me like that!” Ithun arched an eye brow as he grinned. “I am not throwing my ministerial might around. I am merely trying to make sure that Her Imperial Highness does not issue an order to kill Taraskovyans on sight because our Ambassador committed a blunder. You remember how Kumysov was.” He laughed lightly as he looked at Angelina. “As of your plan, I have no objections. Always good to scout the ground before sending in the cavalry.”

Angelina laughed, once more abandoning her attempt to pick something to eat. “I do not think Her Imperial Majesty would kill all Taraskovyans, although you could expect to see his head outside the gates as a warning to others, I would imagine.” She continued to chuckle to herself as she finally ran her eyes over the menu, making her choice. Placing the list into its holder, she looked at Ithun, her eyes full of her feelings for him. “If the Empress was not happy with the Ambassador, do you think he would still be here?”

She turned and caught the eye of one of the waiters, who began to make his way over to the table. “Are you ready to order?” Her eyes once more fixed to Ithun’s face. “We can just get drinks if you are not sure what you want to eat.”

The man finally arrived at the table, giving the two occupants a brief look, a warm smile on his face that seemed to be part of the job description. “I’ll have a sparkling water, with a slice of lemon, and the crispy chicken sandwich, with salsa dressing, in a poppy seed roll.” She looked at Ithun, as did the waiter.

“Just the head? Eh. I’ll have to tell you how the Taraskovyans intimidated their foes in the past. But after meal, I want you to be able to eat.” He gave her a wink as the waiter approached. Ithun let Angelina place her order before he looked at the waiter himself. “I shall have tomato juice, slice of lemon, and bring me some salt and pepper, if you please. And also some natural mineral water.” He paused for a second pondering what to take as meal. And since he was not hungry, having already had breakfast some hours ago, he decided to take something light. “How large is a ham sandwich?”

The waiter shrugged and showed the approximate size with his hands. Ithun nodded. “Hm. I shall take two, then.” The waiter chuckled as he noted down the orders and went away, leaving the couple to themselves. Ithun smiled at his beloved as he looked about the room, until he looked through the window outside. There was nothing interesting there and he was about to move his gaze away when suddenly he saw, on the other side of the street, a group of men walking slowly. Most were, most surely, Tartarian. However, two members of the group seemed to come from a whole other world. Their shirts and pants were not crafted in the usual western style, and instead of shoes they were wearing boots. But what attracted his attention were their ears which, while displaced at the same place as with humans, appeared cat-like and shifted constantly as their owners concentrated on one or the other of their interlocutors.

Ithun’s gaze became frozen to the two men, his eyes not leaving them for a second as he looked at them and could not believe it. It was as if the descriptions of the ancient Taraskath in the history books had suddenly become alive. Yet, the group kept moving and soon vanished out of sight. And as much as he wanted to dart after them, Ithun remained calm as he looked at Angelina with a smile, deciding to probe the grounds. “Did you see those? Quite an interesting fashion...”

Angelina drew her attention back to Ithun, having kind of zoned out as he was ordering his lunch, while she thought about where they could spend the rest of the day. She looked over at the window, which she had been staring out of, as if it would give her ideas of where to go. “Hmm? Oh, those two people who walked passed?” She frowned trying to recall what they had been wearing. “Some people have odd fashion sense.” She looked back at Ithun, a questioning frown marring her features. “I didn't realise you were turning into a fashion guru?” She laughed, as the waiter returned with their drinks.

Ithun shrugged to her question, a smile on his face. “And why not? It is never too late to start. And, just in case, the Army is maybe the biggest fashion designer ever!” He paused for a second as he looked Angelina in the eyes before he looked at his glass of tomato juice. He tossed some salt and pepper into it, squeezed the lemon juice and, having mixed everything, sipped a little on his drink. “Summer uniforms, winter uniforms, officer uniforms, service uniforms, parade uniforms, et cetera. The list goes on and on. Doesn’t it remind you of the so-called ‘collections’ the fashion designers come up with a bit every month?”

He chuckled as he gave another glance outside, spotting nothing of interest. He knew all too well that they could have not been Taraskath, for there were few original Taraskath left in the Grand Duchy. Centuries of interbreeding with Slavs left its trace on the kin. The only ones who could have remained pure were the Banished Ones. He sighed as the thought crossed his mind and he suddenly wondered how the Taraskovyan intelligence could miss out Pariahs walking in broad daylight. Ithun looked at Angelina, a smile on his face. “If you do not mind, I think I shall go see the Taraskovyan Ambassador in Erebus tomorrow. I have certain questions I need to ask him.”

Angelina laughed. “You know, you just gave me a wonderful idea for something we can do while we are here.” She gave him a very smug smile. “Shopping! I’ve not been to Erebus for a while now, and it would be good to get around the shops again and boost my wardrobe.” She waited for the sigh. Most men hated going shopping, especially when it came to women’s fashion.

“As for you visiting the Taraskovyan Ambassador, why would I mind?” She looked at him and smiled. “This trip is not about doing what I want, it’s about doing what we want. You go and see the Ambassador, and I’ll lie in.” Her smile grew until she laughed lightly. “I’ll think of something.” She picked up her drink to take a sip, as the waiter reappeared carrying their order, which he placed down in front of them and left the table.

Lowering her glass, she picked up the roll she had ordered. “Mmm, I’m starving.” She took a bit and chewed enthusiastically. Once she had swallowed, she looked at Ithun questioningly. “You never did say what was so interesting outside.”

Ithun arched a brow pensively as she mentioned shopping before nodding approvingly. “Then we shall do some shopping. But I demand access to your changing booth, especially in lingerie shops.” He gave Angelina a cunning wink as he sipped on his tomato juice. He closed his eyes from a brief moment, imagining her trying out the best articles of lingerie stores, and his smile grew as he reopened them to see her again. “We shall go to the best shops in town, where lots of young and pretty assistants will rush around to assist you.” He chuckled and shook his head, smiling at her.

It was that moment that the waiter chose to reappear with the orders. Ithun inclined his head politely in sign of gratitude and reached for one of his sandwiches, taking a generous bite and chewing it. Once swallowed, his looked at Angelina, his eye brow arched. “I just found the particular designs of the outfits and some… other details… quite intriguing. Reminded me of ancient Taraskath fashion.”

Angelina laughed. “You know, I don’t understand men’s fascination with lingerie shopping.” She picked up her roll and once more took a bite, her stomach ordering her to eat first talk later. Finishing chewing and then washing down her mouthful with a sip of her water, she smiled. “The shopping can come later, just as long as we have a good time while we are here, I will be happy. It’s so nice for us to be able to do normal things. Well, as normal as possible, considering you probably have people watching your back the whole time, even if they don’t show themselves.”

Her eyes flicked to the window as he continued to speak. “Taraskath?” She frowned and shook her head. “I can’t say I know of any reason anyone would be wearing that kind of fashion around here.” She shrugged her shoulders and gave Ithun a warm smile. “I expect some fashion designer has seen a picture somewhere or read a description and added it into this year’s collection.”

“The interest of men in lingerie shopping depends on the girl they go shopping with. All I can say is that I am very, very interested.” Ithun narrowed his eyes a little as he smiled, looking at Angelina, before he turned his gaze to the windows. “And yes, you must be right about all the fashion business. It is funny how the world is so big, and yet so… small.” He said pensively, sipping some of his tomato juice.

The two continued chatting as they ate, laughing joyfully as they came upon funny and hilarious subjects. Both were happy to be able to finally enjoy some time together without having to worry about what hour it was, about the various duties they had, about anyone clad into combat armour and fully armed knocking on the door. And so they spoke about everything and nothing in particular, not noticing how their respective meals vanished from their plates. Ithun took care of the financial technicalities, using the magical instrument known under the common appellation of ‘credit card’, and the two went out of the café.

The street was momentarily empty, which allowed the Taraskovyan Foreign Minister to give a glance around the surroundings. Yet, knowing not where to go or what to do, he pulled his beloved closer to him and, holding her firmly, but gently, by the waist, raised her off the ground as his lips locked with hers in a kiss. “As I was taught in the Academy,” he said as he broke the kiss, yet still holding her against himself, “If you do not know what to do – just improvise.” He broke into a smile. “And now that I have improvised, maybe you have any thoughts on what we could do next? Maybe go hunt for some new wardrobe for your gorgeous… hmmm… attributes?”

“We are not going lingerie shopping.” Angelina laughed and shook her head. “Anyway, I like to buy on my own, and surprise you wearing it later.” She lowered her eyes as she grinned to herself, before picking up her belongings and rising from the chair. “Anyway, we were going to take a stroll, if I recall and see what is around the area.” She met his eyes, and frowned. “Unless you want to do something else? And don’t even mention shopping.”

They headed out of the café and walked towards the car, which was slightly up the road. “I don’t want to do too much today. An early night and an early start tomorrow, I think, especially if you want to visit your Embassy.” She stood before him, looking into his eyes, brushing his hair along his forehead. “Just remind me, no alcohol for the rest of the visit, I don’t want to sleep in so late tomorrow.”

“No alcohol?” Ithun frowned as he looked at Angelina. “But… you are so cute when you are drunk! Especially in the bed.” He gave her a smile full of mischief and a wink as they approached the car. “But as you wish. We shall have all the time we need to get drunk in Vigvar, upon our return. Just remind me not to go paint graffiti on the Northwind Palace where the Parliament will meet once it is elected.” He laughed, shaking his head, as he looked back at his beloved.

“It would be good if you showed me the location of the Taraskovyan Embassy during out little stroll so that I can find it tomorrow morning without having to ask my way around.” He chuckled as he imagined the image of a man in the uniform of a Taraskovyan Airborne Captain asking his way to the Taraskovyan Embassy. “I am most sure people will find it suspicious and call the police. And I shall enter history as the first ever Taraskovyan Foreign Minister to have spent a night in a detention cell outside of Tarasovka.” With that, he stopped in front of the car, and opened the door to the driver’s seat, inviting her to get in.

Climbing into the car, Angelina pulled on her seatbelt and waited as Ithun walked around to his side of the vehicle and got in. She gave him a smile, as he got settled and turned of the engine, sending them off down the street. Her eyes flicked about them as she pointed out little shops and various cafes and restaurants that they might like to try during their visit.

“The Embassy is not too far from here, about fifteen minutes.” She turned briefly to look at him. “Are you going to be able to find it tomorrow, or do you want me to drop you off? It’s not far from the Ministry, so I could pop in there while you are busy, and then I can get you, and then we can do some shopping.” A grin spread over her face. “I’ll even let you pick.”

They drove around the city, and fifteen minutes or so later, she pulled the car to a stop, across from the main entrance of the Taraskovyan Embassy. “There she is.” She pointed, not that Ithun could not have spotted the uniforms and flags of his own nation.

And indeed there she was, just as the Taraskovyans loved it – a discreet location, lost in the middle of the old city. A manor, surrounded by a park, separated from the outside by a thick layer of vegetation along the fence. The gates leading to the complex were shaded by trees and gave a view on a short road that led straight to a building with, in front of it, several poles flying the flag of the Grand Duchy, as well as some other, less important banners, that were flying below the Grand Ducal flag.

Behind the closed gates one could spot the silhouettes of men in the uniform of Foreign Protectors, the so-called ‘private army’ of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that existed as far as under the rule of Mikhail I of all Taraskovya. With all the developments back in the Grand Duchy, security was tightened, which was also clear due to the presence of several Tartarian policemen by the gates.

Ithun nodded approvingly as his gaze left the Embassy entrance and returned to Angelina. “Thing is that I shall be wearing my uniform when I go meet the Ambassador. So if you do not mind being seen in company of a foreign officer, I am only for the lift.” He smiled as he laid a hand on her knee, rubbing it gently. “Will avoid me getting lost while trying to find you ou in the city.” He looked around again, to memorize the surroundings, before fixing his eyes on her face again. “Now then. Do we go home…” He arched an eyebrow as the word escaped him intuitively. “… or do you have something else in mind?”

“If I minded, I would have booked you a taxi instead of offering to drive you myself.” Angelina looked at Ithun and smiled. “And if I push you out as I drive passed, no one will see me anyway.” She winked and started up the car, pulling out into the traffic, leaving the Taraskovyan Embassy to disappear into the distance. “I’ll give you my bleeper number, so you can contact me tomorrow when you are finished.”

She drove them around the city, once again pointing out sights of interest as they went. Her eyes flicked between the road, the mirror and her lover as they discussed many things about the city. She answered as many questions as she could, and once she had managed to get them onto one of the quieter back roads, she headed them back to her family home, pointing out the areas nearby where she went to school, university and other places that played a part in her history.

Finally they reached the gates to her parents’ house, and pulled into the driveway. Cutting the engine, she unbuckled her seatbelt and looked over at Ithun. “It’s such a nice day, I thought we could relax by the pool for the afternoon and chill out.” She grinned. “What do you say?”

Ithun stretched lazily in his seat before unbucking his seat belt and looking at Angelina. “I say that it is a good idea. I won’t mind snoozing by the pool...” He grinned suddenly. “Reminded me of a day when my sister drew a big ‘Kick Me’ on my back with sun cream. Did not yield such a big of a result, but you could make out the letters if looking closely.” He opened his door and got out of the car, circling it to open Angelina’s door and help her out.

And as she locked the door behind her, Ithun arched an eye brow pensively. “Not that I want you to repeat my dear sister’s deeds. I would have to undertake punitive actions in such a case.” He gave her a mischievous wink as he took her hand into his and led her towards the house.

Angelina looked at Ithun and laughed, as they walked back to the house, stopping only for her to open the door and let them. “I swear, you have a one track mind. I don’t know how you get anything done all day.” She pressed a kiss to his cheek, before calling out. “We’re home! Anyone here?” The resounding silence that greeted them indicated that there was no one in the house.

“Let’s go and get changed.” Holding his hands she led him up the stairs, making her way to the bedroom. Dumping her belongings on the bed, she looked over at him and smiled. “I can’t remember the last time I just lay by the pool for the afternoon. I expect it was last time I was here.” She began to unbutton her shirt, and took it off, draping it over the bed. “Did you bring swim wear,” she enquired as she slipped out of her pants and placed them with her top, before walking over to the chest of drawers to retrieve her bikini.

Ithun watched with a smile as she undressed in front of him, nodding in response to her question. “I did bring something along.” He said as he gave a glance over to his, still, unpacked luggage. He went to one of the bags and, after some short search, he withdrew his swim wear, his eyes never leaving her as she got changed in front of him.

He took his own clothes off and slipped his swimwear on, which left the near entirety of his body, with exception to the intimate parts, uncovered. “Hmmm…” he looked pensively on his chest and arms, more precisely on the numerous ‘souvenirs’ there left by a conflict that killed so many, yet spared his life. “I hope that your family will not get scared by the… hm hm… exposition on my skin.” He chuckled and smiled as he looked back at Angelina, admiring her smooth body covered only by the bikini. “And you look gorgeous! With all the things we’ve been through, I have never seen you wearing a two pieces swim suit.”

Walking over to Ithun, Angelina lightly ran her fingers over his body, caressing the marks that detailed what he had been through. “My family will think they have a hero amongst them.” She smiled and pressed a kiss to his lips. “And they will not think more about you than that.” Her eyes met his, showing her emotions as she spoke. “And anyway, it doesn’t matter what they think. I love you, and that’s the important part, isn’t it?”

Standing before him, she wrapped her arms around him, pulling his body against hers. “As for the bikini, you’ll just have to take me more places where I can wear one, won’t you?” She looked up at him and grinned. “Or if you really want to see me in a bikini…you only have to ask, and I’ll see what I can do.” She winked then laughed. “Let’s go down and swim. I really fancy a nice dip followed by a sun drying and then repeat the above.”

Ithun kissed her forehead as he rubbed her back. “Then let us go take a dip then.” And so he let Angelina take them over to the swimming pool. Upon arriving, Ithun looked at the surroundings before moving over to the edge of the pool and dipping a foot into the fresh water. His lover came up to him, smiling as she looked at him. “How is the water?” She asked as he shrugged.

“You shall see for yourself.” Waiting no longer, he got hold of her, took her in his arms and stepped to the edge of the pool. He stretched a leg out, straightened his back and, before Angelina even had the time to react, entered the water in a scuba-diver jump.

***

The water was icy cold; he knew it, even if he could not feel it since his nervous system was kicked out by pain killers long ago, somehow still leaving him conscious, even if a bit hazy. He could not see anything as the water went dark with blood, his blood. Several bullets hit the water near him, leaving traces in the water as they directed themselves to the bottom. And then there was nothing and he detached some pieces of his armour to be able to return to the surface, where he gulped hungrily for air. Nobody was around, the rebel soldiers had already left, and he crawled out on the bank of the river, looking around, trying to figure out where he ended up while fleeing the rebel troops. At a distance, he spotted the remains of an armoured personnel carrier, which weren’t smoking, indicating that Battle came here long ago, did its share of destruction, and moved on elsewhere…

***

As they resurfaced, Ithun blinked confusedly as he looked around himself. And as his gaze fell on the frowning face of Angelina, his features relaxed and he smiled. “So, Lina, how is the water?”

Breaking the surface of the water, Angelina shot Ithun a look that - if she had the ability – would have killed. Her hands brushed over her hair, pushing off the excess water, with rushed in rivlets down her back. “What was that for?” She frowned at him, before her laughter finally broke trough, and she began to giggle. “I was hoping for some sun first.”

She looped her arms around his neck, having closed the gap that had formed between them, and gave him a kiss. “This is nice, it’s kind of normal.” She looked into his eyes and smiled. “No ties, no work, no rules or regulations. Just you and me together…on our own, away from everyone.”

“I didn’t realise anyone else was here.” A voice suddenly floated over from the edge of the pool from where Peter was standing, watching the couple. “I thought you were sightseeing or something.” He sat down on the edge, his legs dangling in the water. “Not that I blame you from coming home for a swim instead. It’s hot today.” He suddenly met Angelina’s eyes. “I’m not interrupting, am I?”

Angelina shook her head. “No, of course, not. We are just swimming.” She looked at her brother. “Are you coming in?”

“In a little bit.” Peter flicked his fingers in the water.

Angelina laughed. “Apart from the way I got in the pool, it is very pleasant in here.” She smiled, and suddenly flicked some water up into Ithun’s face, before unwrapping her arms from around him, and making a slight swim to get out of his way.

Peter chuckled from his position. “I’m glad you’ve finally found a new target, Lina.” He looked at Ithun. “That used to be me.”

Ithun smiled at Peter as a certain number of various things he planned doing to his Lina came crashing down now that they had an audience. “Hello, Pe-”, he didn’t have the time to finish as a load of water hurled upon his face, some getting into his mouth. He frowned as he spit the water out in a fountain, his eyes sparkling with mischief as he looked at the smiling Angelina.

“Well, Peter, I am very happy to be her target.” The Taraskovyan Foreign Minister said and, forgetting all rules of etiquette and diplomacy, dived beneath the surface. Swimming in dolphin-style he was beneath Lina in no time and, grabbing her by her legs, pulled her down to join him underwater. And as she turned to face him, Ithun pulled her against him and kissed her on the lips, quickly giving a blow with his legs to take them up.

He made a deep breath as their lips parted, smiling happily as he looked her into the eyes, before flicking his gaze over at Peter. “Come on, Peter, you have nothing to fear. I reserve that treatment to her alone.” He chuckled and, unwrapping his arms from around her, vanished beneath the surface again, dodging preemptively another splash of water.

Peter chuckled from him place at the side of the pool, watching the frivolity going on before him. “It looks like you’ve met your match, Lina.” He grinned at her as he watched Ithun disappear back under the water. “Although I give him a few more months before you have him under your thumb.”

Laughing, while once more brushing the excess water from her face and hair, Angelina smiled at her brother. “Oh, he already is, he’s just in the denial stage at the moment.” She winked, and turned to face Ithun as he emerged once more from under the water.

Sliding off the edge, Peter slipped into the water and swam over to where his sister was standing, he lowered his voice slightly. “I think he’s good for you, Lina.”

“I know.” She replied her voice equally low, as her eyes sparkled. “It’s not been easy, what with all the trouble in Tarasovka, but I think the fact that we made it through still together means something.”

Peter nodded. “If he upsets you, though, I’m going to play big brother.” His voice was back to its normal level and his tone was full of fun. “It’ll just be like old times. I remember that one boyfriend of yours, who was a right as…”

“Thank you.” Angelina cut him off. “Ithun is not interested in such things, or my poor taste in boyfriends back then. He’s just grateful that I’ve change my ways…” She whispered, as she smiled at Peter. “And so am I.”

The siblings smiled at each other and then laughed cheerfully.

“Conspiring in my absence, aren't we?” Ithun said with a mischievous smile as he swam towards the brother and sister. He put his feet on the bottom, standing up next to Angelina as he pulled the girl against him, smiling as he looked into her eyes. “And are we trying to conceal accounts of past mischief? Oh, don’t be afraid, nothing can diminish you in my eyes, you know. You are my little goddess.” He smiled as he kissed the tip of her nose.

Looking back up at Peter, the young man arched an eyebrow pensively. “Tell me, Peter, do you know any good places in Erebus to spend a night out? Some good clubs or anything?” Ithun smiled as he rubbed Angelina’s back with a hand. “It has been awhile since I’ve last been to a good nightclub. Between work and various nationalistically radically religiously fanatic groups going off into revolts, not much time for fun…”

He looked warmly at Angelina. “I know you are an excellent classic dancer, but I have never seen you in a modern setting, wearing a nice short miniskirt... mmmm... or tight leather pants...” Ithun sighed happily as pictures that his imagination drew swarmed through his mind. “Ah! It has been so long since I was free to just have fun. Of course, back then I didn't really have someone to have fun with. Now I do!”

Angelina stared at Ithun as he addressed Peter about the nightclub. “You are not being serious, are you?” Her expression indicated she hoped he was not. “I can’t take you to a nightclub. If something were to happen to the Foreign Minister in one of Tartarus’ nightspots, we’d have a lot of explaining to do, especially me.”

Flicking his eyes between the two, Peter nodded. “That is true, Lina, but there are some pretty good upmarket places you could go to. I wouldn’t be a real nightclub as such, but they are pretty close and they are members only, which cuts down a lot of undesirables coming in.”

“You are suddenly the expert, are you, Peter?” Angelina smiled, before looking at Ithun. “We’ll think about it.” Her eyes frosted over slightly, miserable at having to disappoint him. “I just don’t want to cause a scandal. You don’t have the luxury of freedom like you had before you took on your new role.”

“You are my personal little security detail, aren’t you?” Ithun said, rubbing her back as he leant forward to kiss Angelina on the forehead. “I have been to much worse places than a nightclub fight. Besides, I am here on my own initiative, I wonder if the local authorities even know about my presence here.” He gave her a wink, pausing for a second before continuing. “But since you already sound like you would not feel comfortable in a nightspot and, thus, would be nervously glancing around instead of having fun, I deem that such a choice is eliminated. I want you to enjoy yourself.”

With that, he looked back at Peter. “Your offer sounds interesting… I take it that you are a member, eh?” The Taraskovyan smiled. “Then how about we abuse of your hospitality and impose ourselves as your company one of these evenings?” He chuckled, already imagining that the young man was most surely regretting having a big mouth.

Angelina smiled, as she slipped her arm around Ithun’s waist. “Yes, I am your security detail. You are here as a guest of mine, how will I feel if something bad happens to your physically or sometimes occurs to ruin your reputation.” She kissed his cheek lightly. “Not to mention, it would not be good for my career either.”

Laughter suddenly came from Peter. “Just like you, Lina, thinking of yourself.” He looked at Ithun with a grin. “My dear sister was always a firm believer of self preservation.” He looked at her and smiled, his eyes revealing his mirth. “But we all love her anyway.”

“Even you?” Angelina asked credulously.

“Yes, even me.” He joined her in a little laughter, before he focused on the other thing Ithun had spoken of. “I do have membership in several such places, and would be more than honoured to drag you both along to one. Give me a shout when you want to go, and we’ll arrange something.”

“Selfish or not, she’s still my little Lina.” Ithun gave Angelina a wink as he shook her lightly in his arm. “Besides, Peter, even if she might seem selfish at times, she has proven me that she really isn’t.” The young Taraskovyan smiled at Peter and then looked around the pool. “Well, I figure I’ll do a couple lengths and then go dry myself. You folks can profit to talk to each other and conspire behind my back.”

With that, he let Angelina go, as he reached to kiss her briefly on the lips. “Just don’t conspire too much.” With that, he vanished swiftly beneath the surface. Yet, as he did that, he wrapped his legs around hers and, in a spinning motion, made her collapse into the water. And as she resurfaced, he was already out of reach, swimming quickly in perfect crawl.

Emerging once more from below the surface of the water, Angelina stared over to where Ithun had swum off to, and shook her head. “Sometimes I wonder…could I arrange for the disposal of the Taraskovyan Foreign Minister and get away with it?” She pondered for a moment and laughed. “Unfortunately not, the consequences would be too big.”

Peter nodded. “You never were very good at picking the gentlemen.” He chuckled as she watched her move towards the edge of the pool. “Are you getting out?”

“I think I’ve had enough water for now.” She reached the steps and climbed out, walking quickly over to one of the sun loungers and picked up a towel. Drying off the excess water, she made sat down in the sun, looking back at the pool in time to see Peter following her example.

He also picked up a towel and began to dry his body. “You too look really happy, Lina. But it must be hard, with your jobs and everything.” He frowned. “Especially through the trouble they had. We were all worried to death over here about you.”

“Silly, Peter. If it had gotten that bad, we would have been shipped out.” She smiled up at him. “But it’s nice to know you were thinking about me.”

“You are my sister, you know. I do care about you, despite all our childhood fights.”

Angelina nodded and smiled, before looking over at Ithun. “What do you think of him?” She met her brother’s eyes questioningly.

“I like him. He reminds me of me.”

Angelina laughed, and shook her head exasperatedly. “Both as arrogant as each other.” She let out a large. “It’s so lucky I love you both.”

Having done enough lengths in the pool and feeling definitely refreshed, Ithun halted himself by the edge of the pool, resting for a moment, feeling warm in the water. He gave a look over to where Angelina and Peter were discussing something and smiled to himself as he admired her while she laughed, her beautiful smile and the spark in her eyes when she looked at him. Finally, he took hold of the edge of the pool and got himself out of it.

The officer walked over to where the two siblings were and, picking up a towel, began to dry himself. “This was quite refreshing.” He grinned as he sat down on a lounger and looked at Peter. “Do you know where Mister… I mean… Samuel and Catherine might be? I surely hope we did not start some ‘sightseeing’ pandemic with our coming here.” Ithun chuckled as he winked to Angelina, for the last thing that he wanted were the owners of the house going on 'errands' to leave him and his beloved alone in the house. After all, they had two entire mansions back in Vigvar to be alone in, and as that thought crossed Ithun's mind, he smiled again as certain memories came up.

Peter patted himself down with a towel as Ithun approached; a smile on his lips as he turned to Angelina and then back to the Foreign Minister as he spoke. “Mother and Father are out visiting friends, a prior engagement. They said they would be here for dinner, although they won’t be offended if you two are not eating with us. You been here on holiday, you probably want to see as much as you can.”

“I’m more than happy to dine in, Ithun wants to go to the Embassy tomorrow, and it would be nice to get an early start.” Angelina replied, as she made herself comfortable, putting on a pair of sunglasses. “I don’t want to spend the whole day doing business.”

Peter frowned. “Are you going into the office?”

“Just for a bit, while Ithun is busy.” She looked at the man in question and gave him a smile. “It will make meeting him afterwards a lot easier. I don’t want to get arrested sitting outside the embassy in my car. They’ll probably have me for loitering.” She laughed lightly, turning her gaze between her brother and her lover.

Arriving in a Volkswagon Phaeton Sedan alone, save his chauffer and Body Guard. Emerging in Semi-Formal dress and Fez, His Lordship of Ratorz made his way into the dining area of the Embassy as his chauffer sped off. pulling out his own chair and sat down across from his body guard, the idea of making new ties to outside countries weighed heavily on his mind. A waitress placed water for him and his Companion and as she walked away he stared intently at his counter-part. "Well...so far so good, wouldnt you say?". The Guard said nothing.
"sigh...."

“Oh, nothing to worry about, I just have a couple things to ask the Taraskovyan Ambassador. It shouldn’t take long.” Ithun smiled as he laid aside his towel. “This is the most official stuff I hope to be doing on this trip. I am here to relax and enjoy myself, after all, before me and my colleagues have four and a half hundred representatives of People and Fiefdoms to watch our steps.”

The Foreign Minister chuckled and shook his head as he lay down on the lounger. “Mmmm… this is good. I shall have to build myself a swimming pool over at my residence. There is an inside one, but no outside ones.” He laughed lightly. “Not that the organisation charged with preserving Vigvar’s architectural heritage will allow me to do so, but dreams do not harm.”

Ithun looked at Peter, smiling. “Indeed, building something new or modifying something existent in the Capital City is a huge headache. Taraskovyans are very permissive on many things, yet they are totally paranoid about others. It is the sacred right of all Taraskovyans to bear cold arms at any time, yet you must pass psychiatric tests and get a special license to be able to keep firearms at home. Concealed carry requires even further licensing.” He paused for a second, enjoying the warmth of the sun. “And yet, it is very easy to obtain a firearm. Just sign up for the Civil Defence and, if you are enlisted, you will be allowed to keep an assault rifle or a handgun at home. All you have to do in return is take it out for a day of shooting practice each year as well as three weeks military training every two years, to keep in shape.”

Ithun paused again, pondering something. “And how is life in Tartarus like? I am not talking about laws, but generally. It is one thing to read reports, but nothing is better than hearing it directly from somebody directly concerned.” His question was addressed to both Angelina and Peter as he looked at them in turn.

Peter was the first to speak, as Angelina went about drying her hair with a towel. “Tartarians are not allowed to carry guns, not in the streets for example, but you can own licenses for hunting and other type of weapons. It’s not like the officials like to risk being shot because someone has got out of bed in the wrong mood. The police do have a shot on sight and ask questions later policy on people carrying weapons where they should not be.”

Nodding her head, Angelina chipped in. “It’s not really much different here than countless over nations you could visit. Everyone has there rules they have to live up to. For one, my parents did not need permission to put a pool in their garden, although if they wanted to add something to the house, they would have to get permission. All in all, it’s not a bad place to live. There are probably worse places and there are probably better places, but we are happy here.”

Perching himself on one of the loungers, Peter agreed with a simple nod of his head. “Yeah, it’s reasonable here. I probably wouldn’t shout at the top of my voice that people should flock to live here, but I would not tell them not to either.”

“On the other hand, I am paid to do just that.” Angelina looked between Ithun and Peter and laughed.

“And she is quite good at her job, you know.” Ithun said to Peter before looking into Angelina’s eyes, a smile on his lips. “She is a hit with the Taraskovyan nobility and establishment. After all, every nation is sending men and women in their forties, grave looks on their faces and all the stuff that goes along. And with that, you have a most charming, smiling and young Tartarian Ambassador who is as skilled as all others.”

He lay back on his lounger and stretched a little as he presented his face to the sun, closing his eyes. “Remember when we were invited to that event organized by the Orlovs?” He tilted his head to look at Angelina, smiling. “His Highness the Duke Orlov has spoken quite highly of you to me, in person. And, as you know, he is quite an important personality in Taraskovya. And he is also my colleague over in the Government now.”

He presented his face to the sun again, closing his eyes and enjoying the warmth. “We Taraskovyans love originality, because routine is boring and we love to have fun.” Ithun turned his head again to look at Peter this time. “You should come over to the Grand Duchy one of these days. Consider this an official invitation from the Taraskovyan Minister of Foreign Affairs.” He paused for a second, pondering. “Actually, it would be nice if all of you folks came about, see the place where Lina works. Very nice spot, right opposite the Midnight Gates of the Winter Palace. And the Midnight Square is so better without the armoured personnel carriers all over the place.” He chuckled and laughed, shaking his head.

Peter nodded his head and smiled at Ithun’s invitation. “It would be nice to visit, I’ve never been there, and it’s always good to see new place. Having Lina there as an unofficial tour guide will also help.” He looked over at his sister and laughed at the look on her face. “Come on, you know you would love the whole family under your feet for a week or two.”

“The good thing is, if you get too rowdy, I know someone high up who can have you kicked out if necessary.” Angelina turned to Ithun and winked playfully. “Of course, father knows some influential people here, so I have to be careful not to have him ask them to get me pulled back here unceremoniously.” She looked at Peter. “We can arrange something, if you can spare the time?”

Standing up from his lounger, and wrapped the towel around his body. “We’ll talk later. I need to get a drink. Do either of you want one?”

Angelina pondered for a moment. “I’ll just have a glass of lemonade. I’m off alcohol for the rest of the trip.”

Peter’s eyebrow rose questioningly. “You’re not…?”

“No, I’m not.” Angelina laughed. “I just don’t want a repetition of this morning.”

Ithun furrowed his eyebrow as he looked at Angelina. “Oh, I am sure some ‘kicking out’ could always be arranged, if anything. I know some people in the Grand Ducal government.” He chuckled and shook his head as he listened pensively to the discussion between the brother and sister, his heart suddenly picking up as Angelina laughed.

He looked through half-shut eyes at her before looking back at Peter. “I shall have something cool, with few alcohol. I was something refreshing, not something to warm me up.” He smiled and watched the man leave. The Foreign Minister sat in his lounger, measured the distance between it and Angelina’s one and stood up to pull his one next to hers.

Lying down again, he reached out and placed his hand on her stomach, spreading his fingers. “Do you think that if I leave it long enough, you’ll have a fancy white mark on a tanned body?”

Angelina placed her hand over Ithun’s as it rested against her body. “If I don’t get and all over tan, you will be punished, and I don’t mean in a good way.” She turned her head towards him, her eyes finding his, as a smile grew on her lips. “This is nice. Me and you. Just being normal people, with no pressure, no people watching and telling us what to do. I could get used to this.” She frowned at the thought of how much it would change once there vacation was over. Her sitting in her large house and him in his, together but never truly together. “I’m going to make the most of this.”

She rolled over onto her side, facing him, her head resting against her arm. “Sometimes I wish we could just disappear and live a quiet life, but I know we’d probably both go mad with leaving what we love doing.” She took his hand in her free one, rubbing her thumb along the back of it. “I love you, Ithun.” She smiled, and blew him a kiss.

Ithun smiled at his beloved as he brought her hand closer to his lips. “I know.” He said with a wink and kissed Angelina’s fingers. He looked at her pensively, rubbing the back of her hand with his thumb before he shifted to his side to face her. “Once we have the time, I shall take you to Jester’s Keep.” Smiling as he caught her quizzical look, Ithun proceeded to explain.

“Jester’s Keep is the ancient Taraskath Citadel that belonged and still belongs to my family. The name has an interesting history. My ancestor, Narith Khat, was the personal Jester of Uidath Karetsah, the one who created the unified Taraskovyan state. You remember what happened shortly after the unification.” He smiled as he paused for a second, giving her the time to remember what she knew about the history of the Grand Duchy. “The Eternal War erupted, during which every blade and man was crucially important. My ancestor was given a handful of men and charged with raiding enemy villages and undertake various minor tasks which aimed at weakening the enemy. Those were things both useful to warrant dedicating men to them, yet unimportant enough for a group of non-warriors to handle.”

Ithun paused for a second before continuing, smiling. “Yet, at one occasion Narith managed to butcher a thousand Amalori soldiers in a narrow mountain pass, whilst having only a couple dozen men under his command. So to say, Uidath was impressed and entrusted Narith with a larger force.” The Taraskovyan smiled and sighed happily. “I shall skip all the naughty things my ancestor did, but suffice to say that he won enough victories to be granted his own little Citadel, which he built in the middle of the Cardinian Spine. My family has been holding it ever since, even if we do not live there anymore. After the Strife we had been given another estate, yet the Jester’s Keep is still our domain.” Ithun chuckled and shook his head. “High Count Ithun of Tal-Kerillath, Ruler of Jester’s Keep.”

Angelina smiled and nodded as Ithun finished. “It would be wonderful to visit. I’d like to see a little of your history. I feel I’ve known you so long and yet I don’t really know all that much about you.” Her eyes found his. “If you would like, we could half the time we were going to spend in Tartarus and travel there instead of remaining here.” Her smile grew into a grin. “If we do too much during this visit you will not need to come back again.”

She let her gaze drift up towards the sky, pondering for a moment. “Shall we go inside? I don’t know about you, but I really could do with a shower. Sitting in the sun is nice, but there is nothing like standing under a warm shower of water.” She lowered her eyes back down until she once more found his. “Unless you want to stay here for a little longer?”

Ithun shrugged and smiled at Angelina’s question. “Choosing between getting to rub your back under a shower or to just lie in the sun doing nothing… hm hm… this is a difficult one to make.” He chuckled and shook his head. “I’ll go with the former.” With that, his eyes traveled to the entrance to the house as he arched his brow. “I do wonder what Peter is doing so long… I surely hope he is not fixing some exotic cocktail. It would not be nice of us if he came out with masterpieces only to find the loungers empty.”

With that he stood up and stretched a little, sighing happily as he looked down on her. “You are simply gorgeous.” He ran his eyes over her body and gave her a wink as their eyes met. He leant slightly forwards and offered Lina a hand to help her get up. “There is no rush in running to see Jester’s Keep. It has stood four dozen millennia, I am sure it can last a little bit longer.” He laughed lightly.

Angelina smiled and offered Ithun her hand as she rose from the lounger. “Shower it is then.” She gazed into his eyes and tilted her head, pressing a kiss to his lips. “I thought we could eat out tonight and see a little of the city, and then perhaps meet Peter at one of these clubs that you seem so keen to see.”

They wandered back into the house, just as Peter was bringing a tray containing their drinks. “Oh, have you decided to give up swimming?” He pointed to the drinks, offering one each to Ithun and Angelina.

“We’ve had a long day, and are going to get ready for dinner.” Angelina informed him with a smile. “If you are free tonight…?”

Peter nodded, and smiled, as she paused knowing he would understand her question. “I’ll give you the address and meet you there later, as I’ve promised to meet up with some old friends for a quick drink. This being home on leave makes visiting everyone a priority.” He looked at Ithun. “I’m sure you understand what I mean?”

Ithun nodded to Peter with a smile. “Indeed, enjoy your time to the fullest.” He sipped his drink a little before resting it back on the tray and wrapping an arm around Angelina’s waist. “If we don’t catch you before you leave, just write it down somewhere and we will pass by. Now, if you’ll excuse us, we have to go and get ready.”

He grinned as he led Lina away, up the stairs and off to the room they were occupying. There, they spent some time between enjoying being together away from the eyes of others, making the most of their time in Tartarus before their duties in Tarasovka split them apart again, and getting ready for their night out.

***

Ithun smiled at her as he watched Angelina concentrate on the road while driving through Erebus. Her eyes parted with the road for a second as she gave him a glance, smiling tenderly before looking back on the road. “Your brother has some excellent taste.” The Taraskovyan Foreign Minister as he adjusted the Order of Saint Alexander on his chest. Taraskovyan protocol dictated that an officer was to wear only the highest of his honours in a certain order, and so Ithun’s uniform was only decorated with one order, yet it was the highest military award in Tarasovka. A Foreign Minister going to see his Ambassador was what one would call a ‘special occasion’, and so Ithun dressed up accordingly. Even if the Ambassador did not know the Grand Duke's Minister of Foreign Affairs was coming...

“That club we were to was excellent. We should pull him out to somewhere again, discover new places.” Ithun put his hand on Angelina’s knee, rubbing it gently. “I’ll try to be brief, so we can go about seeing some more of the city, or do something else if you have any plans.”

Angelina pulled the car to a halt and smiled, looking at Ithun, finding it strange to see him dressed so elaborately. “Take as much time as you need. You have my cell phone number, just call when you are finished. I’ll be at the office.” The office she spoke of was the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, which was only ten or so minutes up the road. “I’ll come and get you then, and we can arrange what we’ll do for the rest of the day.”

She leant over and pressed a kiss to Ithun’s lips. “As for Peter, I am sure he can be easily persuaded to take us someone equally as entertaining.” She sat back in her seat and looked over at her companion, enjoying the view. “I know he has entrance to a few clubs around the area.”

The young man smiled and leaned over to Angelina, claiming her lips in a kiss as he stroked her hair. And as they parted, he rubbed her chin with a finger, giving her a wink. “I will not be long.” With that, he opened the door of the car and got out, breathing in the fresh air. He shut the door and followed the car with his eyes as it drove off, before he directed himself towards the gates.

The Tartarian police on guard duty halted him and, upon seeing his Taraskovyan passport, let him proceed. The Taraskovyan guard at the checkpoint, however, arched an eyebrow as he saw a Taraskovyan officer, Cavalier of the Order of Saint Alexander, in front of him. It was clear that the member of the Foreign Protectors did not yet had the time to memorize the face of his new commander and so he requested Ithun’s identity card, which the Foreign Minister produced with a smile.

“Purpose of your visit to the Embassy?”

“Just visiting.” Ithun said with a smile.

And even if the shaded glass was hiding the face of the guard behind it, Ithun could not help but notice that the guard’s eyes suddenly became wide as he checked for the card’s authenticity. Hesitating a second, yet true to his safety instincts, the guard requested the passport this time, which was also produced and offered for the security procedures. He then picked up the phone and said something into it, surely requesting some information, before putting it down and giving Ithun his papers back.

“Pardon, Your Excellency. Had to make sure you were you and not… somebody else.”

“Vigilance is an excellent trait, especially in our troubled times.” Ithun chuckled and proceeded through the gates into the compound. The Foreign Protectors in the shadows of the courtyard, in full security attire, saluted their chief, their smiling faces hidden behind the visors of their helmets.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs entered the building and, upon getting one of the local staff as guide, went to the Ambassador’s office, greeted on his way by the people around. Finally, he reached the needed office, giving a quick wink to the young secretary that rose from her seat, staring wide eyed, before vanishing behind the doors.

The office was clearly the one of a man who treated his work seriously. There were no unnecessary extras in it, but everything required for work with some well chosen and well placed decorations.

“Ambassador Verestshagin, I presume?” Ithun said with a smile, narrowing his eyes a little, as the man, in his forties, nodded.

“Indeed. We have not been expecting Your Excellency over at the Embassy, so pardon for the lack of a proper welcome.” Count Verestshagin rose from his seat and greeted Ithun in ceremonial Taraskovyan fashion before offering the young man a seat and a drink. “I understand there were some… complications at the entrance?”

“In fact, I think the guard that showed such a care about your security needs to be rewarded.” Ithun grinned, accepting a glass of whiskey. “But I deem the situation has been calm around here?”

“Indeed.” The Ambassador nodded, sipping on his whiskey. “The locals are good at handling security and as you have seen our Foreign Protectors are as professional as ever.”

The two men shared a laugh before Ithun continued. “I have some matters to discuss with you. I wonder if the local NashSec chief could join us. They always have different ranks at a different Embassy, so pardon me for not knowing who to call.”

The Foreign Minister chuckled as the Ambassador nodded before taking out some sort of small cell phone and calling somebody over it. “Colonel Odintsov shall meet us shortly.” The Ambassador said. “I offer we move to another room. No need for the staff to know the three of us in one place… may I guess? You want to speak about the pariahs?”

The Minister grinned with a slight nod, and then stood up and followed the Ambassador out and down through the corridors of the building.

Angelina drove away from the Taraskovyan Embassy, her eyes flicking to the mirror as Ithun slowly disappeared into the distance. She had decided that she would make a stop into the Foreign Office, to catch up with some old friends and just show her face. Unlike Ithun, she had no real reason for going, other than it was nearby for when he was finished with whatever it was he had to do.

Once her car had pulled through the security gates and the usual checking of documents had taken place, she made her way into the main office building, greeting some familiar faces on the way.

“Miss Ormond.” A man’s voice filled the corridor before her.

Smiling, Angelina approached the more than familiar face of her previous boss. “Your Highness.” She dropped a little curtsey and rose to look Lord Stratton in the face. “I was not expecting to see you wandering around here.”

He grinned. “I could say the same about you too.” His eyes wandered around her, as if he was looking for someone. “On your own?”

The young woman smiled. “Yes, I’m just here to catch up on news and other bits and pieces.”

“And the Taraskovyan Foreign Minister?” Val enquired.

Angelina broke into soft laughter. “He’s working at the moment.”

Val grinned. “Some people just do not know how to relax on vacation.” He met her eyes again. “If you are back in Tartarus for a while, perhaps I can persuade you and Mr Khat to join me for dinner, for old time sake.”

“It would be an honour.” Angelina smiled. “We are here for a few weeks and dinner would be lovely.”

“Then I will arrange it and send you an invitation.” Lord Stratton made a mental note. “Unfortunately, I would love to stay and talk for longer, but I have an appointment to make. I will see you at dinner.”

Angelina nodded. “It has been a pleasure seeing you again, Lord Stratton.”

With that, the two parted and headed off in their separate directions.

Ithun exited the Embassy building, his mind filled with various thoughts and questions that needed some further answering. He had discovered many new, very intriguing things during a comparatively short discussion. And he also wondered whether the Grand Duke knew what he had just learned… Obviously he did, the Ambassador had to report.

Regardless of who knew what, Ithun knew very well that he was on vacation and that he had a girl to catch. Having left the gates of the Embassy compound behind, he asked the Tartarian police officers on duty where the Foreign Office was and, upon receiving a direction, decided to head out.

It did not take him long to walk all the way to the Foreign Office, where he took out his cellphone.

“Angelina?” He asked, having dialed the needed number. “Yes, it is me. I am in front of the main entrance to your former working place, so if the windows of where you are give on it, I can give you a wave.” Ithun chuckled and laughed lightly. “But I hope nobody will take pictures, or I will make front cover of Taraskovyan magazines.”

Angelina clicked off her phone and frowned, wondering what she had to do to stop Ithun doing stupid things. She could already imagine the Grand Duke having her kicked out of Taraskovya for corrupting their Foreign Minister and allowing him to put himself into dangerous or foolish situations. She shook her head and said farewell to her colleagues, before heading out of the building to where Ithun was waiting.

The look on her face when she spotted him was not a happy one. She walked over to him, a frown etched into her brow. “I told you to contact me when you were finished and that I would pick you up.” Her voice sounded a little annoyed, more for the fear of his safety. “If anything had happened to you, what would I have done?” She looked at him, her straight lips slowly slipping into a smile. “Fortunately, no harm done.”

She pressed a kiss to his cheek, and indicated the car. “Let’s get going.” She pulled open the door and slipped into her driver’s seat, waiting while Ithun made himself comfortable. “Oh, we’ve been invited to dine with an old friend.” Looking over at him, she smiled. “Lord Stratton wants us to have dinner with him.”

“You know, Lina, I do not think it is right for an Ambassador to create an aura of criminality around her own country.” Ithun said with a grin as he gave Angelina a wink. “Besides, walking is good for me. Makes me remember you have feet and I fear I shall be forgetting quite soon I have them, being Minister and traveling by car or whatnot a lot…” He nodded sagely as he followed her to the car and made himself comfortable inside.

“Ah, His Highness, haven’t seen him in awhile, ever since we’ve bumped into him in Devras, actually.” He grinned broadly, remembering the morning meeting, and then the whole series of events that happened in the capital of the Dominion. “It is a pleasure to learn that he still remembers us.” Ithun gave his lover a wink.

“But what are our plans for the immediate future? I think we have agreed on lingerie shops, hmmm? If we do that, I would propose we quickly return home,” he used that last word very naturally, not even wondering whether it was appropriate or not, “for me to put on some more casual clothes. That is unless you wish to show off in company of a handsome officer with fancy military honours?” The Taraskovyan winked at Angelina and grinned.

***

“I just hope you know what you did, Sire.” Duke Orlov frowned and shook his head. He had known Mikhail for quite some time, he knew the current Grand Duke’s father, his mother. He also knew that the Grand Duke’s grandmother was an Orlov herself. So to say, the Grand Duke could be very unpredictable; he had that written firmly into his genes.

“Worry not, Anatoly. We shall see how he does during his stay there, may come quite beneficial.” The Grand Duke sipped on his tomato juice.

“The Tal-Nash did not appreciate.”

“They never appreciate anything I do. They want the Sword for themselves, after all. But right now I wield the Sword and I decide how things are going to be.”

“We cannot anger the Tal-Nash forever, Sire. We need them to symbolize unity. This reminds me that the formation of the Conservative Party has gone extremely well. The Tal-Nash accepted to join up, so, if everything goes nicely, you shall have a majority in both chambers of Parliament.”

“What about the Dutch speakers?”

“The Democratic Conservative Party?” Orlov snorted. “They shall join us. They see you, Sire, as a symbol of unity and stability. And their republican tendencies are minor, since the overwhelming majority of them are former Vortex nationals and the former Knootians in the leadership cannot really shift to a republican platform by fear of losing their party.”

“I know all that, Anatoly... but I want you and the Tal-Nash to work on getting a firm majority in the Parliament. Hire the best campaigners, PR specialists, concentrate on ancestral Taraskovyan values. Those two years shall be important in stabilising the country, so I do not want to see the NPCA blocking laws and fiddling with referenda.”

The discussion between the two men went on for a moment before they parted, each doing his part in the hard labour of restoring the prosperity and stability of Tarasovka. The Parliamentary elections were looming and everything had to go smoothly.

Angelina laughed. “If I was speaking to anyone but you, I would be telling you safe it was here, but I don’t want anything to happen to you for two very good reasons.” She paused for a moment, and counted one on her index finger. “Firstly, I do not want to start an International Incident which could result in the end of any form of relationship with Taraskovya other than one of war. I feel responsible for your safety while you are here, and I do not want the Grand Duke after my head.”

She counted off two on her next finger. “And secondly, and more importantly, I don’t want to lose you. I care too much to want to let you go, especially in a way that can be avoided with a little thought.” She leant over to him and pressed a kiss to his lips before settling back in her seat and gunning the engine to life.

“As for the shopping, you are most definitely getting dressed before we go.” She looked at him briefly before turning her attention back to the road ahead. “For all the reasons I’ve just stated. Anyone could pick you off dressed like that. You do stick out like a sore thumb.”

“Just a sore thumb?” Ithun’s brows rose up as he looked at his lover. “And I was thinking of something more refined. As an ice palace in a desert or something along the lines. But no, just a sore thumb.” The Taraskovyan minister sat back in his sit and frowned, chuckling. “You have successfully hurt my ego.” He gave Angelina a wink before looking out of the window and the city streets.

He grew to like the city and his lover’s family’s welcoming was warm, so he was very happy with the visit. He loved spending time with Lina away from the bothers of work and various important haughty personalities with their acute xenophobia. He did read the estimations on the parliamentary elections and knew quite well that the Slavic nationalists had a chance to win a considerable amount of seats. He could already imagine scorn being poured on him and other Taraskath members of Government. And especially on him, for he had the audacity to fall in love with a foreigner.

Ithun looked back at Angelina, smiling, and placed a hand on her knee, rubbing it gently. Not that anything was going to stop him from being with the one he loved. And he was not keen to sacrifice his ministerial post for it, for he was of the Khat House, those who rose from nothing to everything. “All or nothing”, “ratekh na vorekh” - such was the motto.

Now that he has met Angelina’s parents, he had to return the favour, which could prove a tad tricky. His father has always leant more towards the Orlov, whilst his mother was a true Tal-Nash, and as all Tal-Nash she was suspicious of foreigners. Yet his mother has already asked him about the woman he was with, and he did not see any enmity, so his fears could have very well be unfounded. It was actually quite interesting, the nervousness he felt at the idea of introducing her to his own family, a new and rather pleasant feeling.

And so they rode all the way home, sharing a pleasant discussion about nothing in particular, enjoying being together. Once arrived, Ithun glanced over at the house as he got out of the car, before looking back at Angelina.

“Well, I guess no need to come with me. I can’t striptease in uniform anyway, it is not practical enough.” He faked a sad sigh and gave her a wink. “I’ll be downstairs shortly.”

As Ithun disappeared upstairs, Angelina walked into the lounge, making herself comfortable in the chair as she waited. She shook her head with a smile as she replayed the conversation that had shared. Somehow, she was sure that it would be a while before Ithun realised that he was not longer a free as he had been. His position offered him more privileges but it also meant that he had lost some freedoms. The idea of him wandering around Tartarus, in full dress uniform, alarmed her more than she had admitted. And it had nothing to do with her not trusting her own nation.

She picked up a magazine that rested on the table before her and flicked through the pages, not really reading anything. Her mind had already turned to another conversation that she had had earlier with Lord Stratton, and that in turn had brought up the memory of how she and Ithun had first met. That memory brought a grin to her face, and a faint blush to her cheeks.

Hearing Ithun moving around upstairs, she assumed that he had managed to get himself out of his uniform. She rose to her feet and climbed the stairs, walking to the bedroom they were sharing, careful not to draw his attention to her arrival. She pushed open the door and peered inside, just in time to catch him before he put his clothing back on.

“Would you like a hand?” Angelina asked as she revealed her presence, walking over to where he was standing. “It’s been a long time since I helped a man dress.” She grinned, her eyes travelling over his body.

Getting out of a parade uniform is not something easy. One must first take care of the various honours, taking them off and putting them away. Then one had to go through the uniform itself. Finally, the garments were on the hanger and the officer was in underpants, a frown on his face as he wondered what civilian clothes to put on.

It was true that uniform was not as varied as civilian clothes, yet it meant no time wasted on choosing. And it also gave a fashionable look at all times, except if you served in the Separate Chetniks Regiment. But those guys were a whole different story and every army in the world needed somebody to laugh at within its own ranks anyway.

Angelina’s appearance made him smile as he turned around to meet her. “Yes, I would like your hand and the rest of you along, too.” He gave her a wink before giving a glance at a selection of his clothes.

“Because you have already helped a man dress?” Ithun’s eyebrow rose in mock suspicion as he grinned and shrugged. “Well, I am all yours, dressing, undressing, whatever you like. I am actually happy to have somebody else find me suitable civilian clothes.”