NationStates Jolt Archive

Mikhail smiled, getting up as well and offering his arm to Anastasia in order to escort her back to her rooms. "No, not for tonight. Tomorrow we'll be starting off towards the north by train. But not before your aide has had his chance to purchase his souvenirs", he said with a smile.

Savajev smiled a little as well. "Do not worry, Vladimir. I will show you one of the jewelry stores first thing tomorrow morning. As for you, colonel...", the old man said, turning his stern gaze to David. "You are free to make sure that the royal train suits your... demands."

Savajev made a quick nod, and one of the Home Guards stepped up. "Lieutenant Selin will show you to the train depot."

OOC i think Dads Army every time you use Home Guard
IC

"you can go Lieutenant as we be going over it with the Wolves checking for Bombs and Bugs in the morning "said David before falling in behind Anastasia

Mikhail smiled, getting up as well and offering his arm to Anastasia in order to escort her back to her rooms. "No, not for tonight. Tomorrow we'll be starting off towards the north by train. But not before your aide has had his chance to purchase his souvenirs", he said with a smile.

Anastasia politely declined taking Mikhail's arm but smiled nonetheless. "I am glad to hear that we will be starting off towards the north and I am sure Vladimir will be happy to be able to purchase the items he wants."

Savajev smiled a little as well. "Do not worry, Vladimir. I will show you one of the jewelry stores first thing tomorrow morning. As for you, colonel...", the old man said, turning his stern gaze to David. "You are free to make sure that the royal train suits your... demands."

"Thank you, sir. I want to make sure I find some good quality jewelry for my wife; I am sure that you, who must have seen the jewelry worn by Northern Rangerian women, can find me some."

Savajev made a quick nod, and one of the Home Guards stepped up. "Lieutenant Selin will show you to the train depot."

Vladimir nodded his head before looking at Mikhail. "Prince Mikhail, I am sure you have seen the jewelry worn by aristocratic women. Do you think we could find some for my wife? She should like the idea of wearing such jewelry; especially if she and I go to a social event such as a gala for example."

Mikhail nodded politely, retracting his arm. After they had risen, he had taken his dress knife and slid it back to its hilt. The knife was apparently quite new, not a royal heirloom or anything like that. The dark red leather hilt was decorated with gold studs, but the knife itself was curiously devoid of ornamentation, save for a stylized eagle's head that formed the pommel.

If he had intended to say anything, he was postponed from saying that due to Vladimir's sudden interjection. "I am sure Savajev will help you in finding something suitable for your wife, Vladimir. Savajev prides himself in making himself an expert on any field overnight", he said, chuckling a little. Savajev, of course, remained calm - even though the insistence of Colonel David to always do things his own way was chafing the grey-haired man like a pair of badly-fitting boots.

"I hope that Savajev will be able to help me; I want to make sure that I have a good gift for for my wife when I return to Ixania. Perhaps, one day, I could bring my family to Northern Rangeria on a vacation. Now, shall we go to our rooms?"

"If you so wish", Mikhail said and turned to Anastasia. They were now outside the dining hall, in the corridor that lead to the guest wing. "Good night, Anastasia. I will wake you up in the morning."

"Good night, Mikhail."

After changing into her nightgown, Anastasia looked out the window; seeing the moon shining over the buildings of Halsanki. A small smile crept upon her face as she walked to her bed; covering herself with the blankets before she closed her eyes and fell asleep.

bump.

(OOC: Whoops, sorry... Must have missed that ;) )

The bed was warm and comfortable, feeling like a protective cocoon. If anything could be said about the Northern Rangerians, they were good hosts.

Morning came, of course too early. But while Anastasia still slept, Vladimir could hear a knock on his door.

Vladimir rose from his bed; calmly walking towards the door. He opened the door and looked to see who had been knocking; he assumed that it could have been Savajev knocking at his door while his liege, Prince Mikhail, slept in his bed.

Vladimir's hunch was correct, for it was indeed Savajev who stood at the doorway. He was, however, surprisingly casually dressed. Instead of his black uniform, he wore a dark brown cardigan and trousers. On his arm he held a thick winter coat and a fur-rimmed hat - a headpiece the Northern Rangerians seemed to be fond of.

"Well, Vladimir? Shall we go?" he asked, even though he probably noticed that Vladimir had only just gotten up.

Vladimir was already dressed; he had woken up and dressed himself early, he was dressed in the suit he wore the previous day. "I am ready to go, Savajev; I am glad that we will be able to visit the jewelry store before we leave on the train. Yes; we shall go now."

Savajev nodded. "Very good. And do not worry for Her Majesty. Mariga will wake her up for breakfast with His Majesty", he said, putting on his coat.

He lead Vladimir through the servants' area, where the resident staff was already preparing for the day. Kitchen was already hot with cooking and the sounds of chefs. Savajev walked into a separate parking area, pulling a set of keys from his pocket. He opened one of the garages, pushing the door up. Inside was a silver, streamlined Volvo.

Savajev pulled out his car keys and opened the doors. "Shall we, then?"




OOC: I'll be gone for two days, starting tomorrow morning. Just so you know and don't get worried ;)

Bump.

Double bump.

Savajev nodded. "Very good. And do not worry for Her Majesty. Mariga will wake her up for breakfast with His Majesty", he said, putting on his coat.

He lead Vladimir through the servants' area, where the resident staff was already preparing for the day. Kitchen was already hot with cooking and the sounds of chefs. Savajev walked into a separate parking area, pulling a set of keys from his pocket. He opened one of the garages, pushing the door up. Inside was a silver, streamlined Volvo.

Savajev pulled out his car keys and opened the doors. "Shall we, then?"

"I do not worry about the Empress; I know she can take care of herself but I do admit that I have some concern for her; I've known her since she was a little girl."

Vladimir got into the Volvo and took his seat; looking out the window while thinking about his wife; who he always thought was the most important woman in his life; next to his mother and the Empress of Ixania. "Savajev, I must say that this is a nice car. I have a car myself, you know; a Bentley. It is quite nice to take it for a ride; especially with the family on a vacation, the wife on a romantic getaway or alone if you just want to relax."

"I believe it is our obligation to be somewhat worried about our royal employers", Savajev said with an uncharacteristic grin. "And please, call me Leo. We are off-duties now, so there is no need for formalities."

That was certainly true. Savajev seemed much more relaxed now, as if the stern face he had worn before had been a mask, part of his livery as the Prince's major domo.

Starting the car and driving towards the gates, he began to talk again. "A Bentley, you say? You must show it to me someday. I am something of a car buff, when I have the luxury of vacation. Unfortunately, there are not many classical vehicles here, thanks to the Occupation and the War. I have tried to suggest the Prince to purchase a Maybach as his official vehicle, but he believes it is too... what's the word...? Flashy, that's it."

*****

Meanwhile, in the guest wing, the maid Mariga slowly crept inside and next to the Empress's bed. She leaned over her, to see if she was still sleeping...

from the shadow of where he was sleeping in the Empress's room Thor watchs every move

"I believe it is our obligation to be somewhat worried about our royal employers", Savajev said with an uncharacteristic grin. "And please, call me Leo. We are off-duties now, so there is no need for formalities."

"I have always been there for the Empress's family; ever since the day she was born. I can remember that day well; the birth of the first prince or princess is always celebrated extravagantly and with much pomp and circumstance. My duty, I believe, is to serve the Empress loyally and efficiently."

That was certainly true. Savajev seemed much more relaxed now, as if the stern face he had worn before had been a mask, part of his livery as the Prince's major domo.

Starting the car and driving towards the gates, he began to talk again. "A Bentley, you say? You must show it to me someday. I am something of a car buff, when I have the luxury of vacation. Unfortunately, there are not many classical vehicles here, thanks to the Occupation and the War. I have tried to suggest the Prince to purchase a Maybach as his official vehicle, but he believes it is too... what's the word...? Flashy, that's it."

"You could always visit Ixania and see my Bentley, Leo. I would not mind a visit from a fellow assistant. My wife would be most accomodating to you; she would not mind a visit from you either, I am sure of it. The Bentley is one of my most prized posessions and I always keep it clean and working."

*****

Meanwhile, in the guest wing, the maid Mariga slowly crept inside and next to the Empress's bed. She leaned over her, to see if she was still sleeping...

Anastasia's eyes were calmly focused on Mariga's face; as if they were guns locked upon a target. "Good morning, Mariga. It is nice to see you again. I am sure you have brought me my breakfast. Thank you for doing so."

Savajev chuckled to himself. "Very well... I might some day take you up on that offer, Vladimir. But for now, let us see if we can find something lovely for your wife to behold and to carry, shall we?"

With that, Savajev slowly pull to a stop in front of a jewelry store. It was still closed, but at the moment the Volvo stopped, the door opened with an immaculately dressed young man standing at the doorway.

"Mr Savajev, Mr Kalewa has been expecting you", the young man said with a smile and a polite nod, letting the two men step inside. The jewelry store was still quite dim, but a few lights had been lit to show-case a selection of ember jewelry presented on the table. Organizing them was a rather well-fed elder man with old-fashioned pince-nez glasses. He looked up and began to speak in fast-paced Rangerian, with Savajev laughing and managing to get a few words in between before the old man fell silent again, returning behind his counter.

"Forgive us that", Savajev said with a smile. "Antonius Calewa doesn't speak English. But he said he has prepared a selection of his finest jewelry 'for the Prince's friend to peruse', as he says."

With that, Savajev stepped aside, allowing Vladimir to run his eyes over the selection of necklaces, anklets, bracelets, rings, earrings and medallions, many set in bright silver.


*****

Mariga startled a little at the Empress's intense stare, but she smiled nonetheless.

"Um, no, Your Majesty. His Majesty the Prince wishes you to join him for breakfast. But if you wish, I can bring your breakfast here instead."

Savajev chuckled to himself. "Very well... I might some day take you up on that offer, Vladimir. But for now, let us see if we can find something lovely for your wife to behold and to carry, shall we?"

"Hopefully we can find such an item, my friend. It will be nice to see her face when she looks upon the item I have bought her and that will make me glad."

With that, Savajev slowly pull to a stop in front of a jewelry store. It was still closed, but at the moment the Volvo stopped, the door opened with an immaculately dressed young man standing at the doorway.

"Mr Savajev, Mr Kalewa has been expecting you", the young man said with a smile and a polite nod, letting the two men step inside. The jewelry store was still quite dim, but a few lights had been lit to show-case a selection of ember jewelry presented on the table. Organizing them was a rather well-fed elder man with old-fashioned pince-nez glasses. He looked up and began to speak in fast-paced Rangerian, with Savajev laughing and managing to get a few words in between before the old man fell silent again, returning behind his counter.

"Forgive us that", Savajev said with a smile. "Antonius Calewa doesn't speak English. But he said he has prepared a selection of his finest jewelry 'for the Prince's friend to peruse', as he says."

With that, Savajev stepped aside, allowing Vladimir to run his eyes over the selection of necklaces, anklets, bracelets, rings, earrings and medallions, many set in bright silver.

"I am happy that Mr. Calewa has prepared a selection; tell me that I thank you for his time."

Looking through the selection for a while, Vladimir began to think about what he would purchase for his wife. He looked at Savajev; beckoning his Rangerian counterpart to him. "Can you ask Mr. Calewa what he would recommend for my wife?"


*****

Mariga startled a little at the Empress's intense stare, but she smiled nonetheless.

"Um, no, Your Majesty. His Majesty the Prince wishes you to join him for breakfast. But if you wish, I can bring your breakfast here instead."

"No, no; I'll have breakfast with the Prince. I'll change my clothes afterwards. Can you take me to him, Mariga?"

Savajev nodded and translated the question for Calewa, who just laughed and shook his head as he answered.

"He says he cannot tell for certain without seeing your wife", Savajev said, apparently slightly amused. "He says it would be like making a coat for a man you have never seen. But he urges you to a picture your wife in your mind, and think what would look best on her."

*****

Mariga nodded with a smile on her lips. "Of course, Your Majesty."

Savajev nodded and translated the question for Calewa, who just laughed and shook his head as he answered.

"He says he cannot tell for certain without seeing your wife", Savajev said, apparently slightly amused. "He says it would be like making a coat for a man you have never seen. But he urges you to a picture your wife in your mind, and think what would look best on her."

*****

Mariga nodded with a smile on her lips. "Of course, Your Majesty."

Vladimir silently thought for a moment before he began to speak to Savajev. "I think that a necklace would look great on her; perhaps a bracelet too."

He began to walk around and examine the various pieces of jewelry; looking for the necklace that was just right. "Do you have any necklaces with jewels in the shape of a heart or something that looks like a heart with a jewel, preferably red, in it?"

--------

Anastasia smiled as she got out of her bed; proceeding to walk with Mariga to her host.

an behind Anastasia was David who HUD was scrolling with words as he walks not saying a word

The distinguishable old gentleman Antonius Calewa and the Prince's major domo Leo Savajev discussed for a moment in Rangerian. The old jeweller smiled and nodded to Vladimir, before opening one of the long jewelry drawers. From it, he lifted out a beautiful necklace that looked like a silvery spider-web with pearls of almost red amber. The main piece of the necklace was an oval, deep-red piece of amber that once worn would rest upon the wearer's bosom like a large droplet of blood.

"Perhaps this would be to your liking?" Savajev translated Calewa's words to the Neo-Ixanian.

*****

Mariga stopped right on her tracks when she saw David follow them.

"Colonel David", she said sternly, even though she was clearly shorter, lighter and physically not as strong as the officer. "The invitation was for Her Imperial Majesty alone. I am sorry but Master Savajev gave me specific orders to bring only Her Majesty for breakfast."

Mariga stopped right on her tracks when she saw David follow them.

"Colonel David", she said sternly, even though she was clearly shorter, lighter and physically not as strong as the officer. "The invitation was for Her Imperial Majesty alone. I am sorry but Master Savajev gave me specific orders to bring only Her Majesty for breakfast."

"and my orders are to be near where ever she is ,so means i'am standing outside a door waiting as she eat so be it"said David as he walks pass

The young servant girl muttered under her breath at the colonel's insistence, but said nothing to him. The overzealous officer was certainly making no friends among the Northern Rangerians.

The young servant girl muttered under her breath at the colonel's insistence, but said nothing to him. The overzealous officer was certainly making no friends among the Northern Rangerians.

"you can mutter all you want ma-am and you can tell all i'am not here to make friends as we don't see why we need your nation as one "

The distinguishable old gentleman Antonius Calewa and the Prince's major domo Leo Savajev discussed for a moment in Rangerian. The old jeweller smiled and nodded to Vladimir, before opening one of the long jewelry drawers. From it, he lifted out a beautiful necklace that looked like a silvery spider-web with pearls of almost red amber. The main piece of the necklace was an oval, deep-red piece of amber that once worn would rest upon the wearer's bosom like a large droplet of blood.

"Perhaps this would be to your liking?" Savajev translated Calewa's words to the Neo-Ixanian.

"Although the main peace is not in the shape of a heart; I'll gladly purchase it from Mr. Calewa because I am sure that my wife will be overjoyed when she recieves this. How much will this necklace cost?"

*****

Mariga stopped right on her tracks when she saw David follow them.

"Colonel David", she said sternly, even though she was clearly shorter, lighter and physically not as strong as the officer. "The invitation was for Her Imperial Majesty alone. I am sorry but Master Savajev gave me specific orders to bring only Her Majesty for breakfast."

"Mariga, the Colonel will stand outside the door while I partake in breakfast with the Prince. I am sure that will not impede me from enjoying the morning nor the Colonel from obeying his superiors."

Savajev nodded to Vladimir and turned to talk to Calewa again. The old jeweller frowned and started to wave his hands, shaking his head as he calmly answered to the major domo.

"He says it is a gift, to your lovely wife. He will not accept payment from honoured guests", Savajev said, a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "I recommend you do not try to haggle, my friend. He will be offended if you insist on paying."

*****

Mariga's eyes had jumped on at the colonel's sudden insult. It was good thing that Savajev was not here; to insult one's hosts in such fashion would have probably made the old man see how well the Isan officer's gut suited as a scabbard for a Rangerian blade.

All those words and anger, however, Mariga kept to herself as she curtsied to Anastasia. She then lead them through the palace to the Prince's private quarters. At the doors stood two armed Home Guards, who let Anastasia and Mariga pass but informed the colonel this was as far as he would go.

Before Anastasia and Mariga was a rather small chamber with a view over Halsanki. On the side of the room stood a single mahogany desk laden with newspapers. Northern Rangerian papers, the New York Times, Washington Post... even some Neo-Ixanian papers. At the center of the room was a single large table, decked with two sets of breakfast dishes and a selection of food, from porridge to cereal, fresh fruit, coffee, tea...

Prince Mikhail IV himself was already sitting by the table, lifting his eyes from the paper. He was not decked in formal wear, but rather a simple morning robe and slippers. Clearly he took breakfast as a private moment, not a grand social function.

"Good morning, Anastasia", he said as his eyes met the Neo-Ixanian monarch's. "Please, come and join me."

Isan officer's
OOC
he Imperial there is no Isan in this or do you want one of these (http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t69/zxc_047/Imperial%20MT%20rifle/FT%20Imperial%20ships/HeavyCapitalBattleshipImperiumClass.jpg) parked above you if you keep calling him FT officer

OOC: Nathaniel BUMPo. Also,
1.) apologies for using the wrong term. I thought "Isa" to be the name of your nation, therefore the adjective being "Isan".
2.) Shapeshifter super soldier with a wolf companion and a spaceship... Not saying a thing. :D
3.) Calm down ;)

Savajev nodded to Vladimir and turned to talk to Calewa again. The old jeweller frowned and started to wave his hands, shaking his head as he calmly answered to the major domo.

"He says it is a gift, to your lovely wife. He will not accept payment from honoured guests", Savajev said, a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "I recommend you do not try to haggle, my friend. He will be offended if you insist on paying."

Vladimir smiled. "I accept the generosity of Mr. Calewa; tell him that his honored guest thanks him and that he is sure his wife will love the necklace."

*****

Mariga's eyes had jumped on at the colonel's sudden insult. It was good thing that Savajev was not here; to insult one's hosts in such fashion would have probably made the old man see how well the Isan officer's gut suited as a scabbard for a Rangerian blade.

All those words and anger, however, Mariga kept to herself as she curtsied to Anastasia. She then lead them through the palace to the Prince's private quarters. At the doors stood two armed Home Guards, who let Anastasia and Mariga pass but informed the colonel this was as far as he would go.

Before Anastasia and Mariga was a rather small chamber with a view over Halsanki. On the side of the room stood a single mahogany desk laden with newspapers. Northern Rangerian papers, the New York Times, Washington Post... even some Neo-Ixanian papers. At the center of the room was a single large table, decked with two sets of breakfast dishes and a selection of food, from porridge to cereal, fresh fruit, coffee, tea...

Prince Mikhail IV himself was already sitting by the table, lifting his eyes from the paper. He was not decked in formal wear, but rather a simple morning robe and slippers. Clearly he took breakfast as a private moment, not a grand social function.

"Good morning, Anastasia", he said as his eyes met the Neo-Ixanian monarch's. "Please, come and join me."

Anastasia took her seat at the Prince's table with a smile on her face. She studied the breakfast dishes and beverages that were on the large table and smiled; immediately she planned what foods she would partake in during breakfast.

"Did you sleep well, Mikhail. I must say that I had an enjoyable sleep during the night."

Savajev nodded, clearly pleased that Vladimir had not insisted on paying. Otherwise the otherwise calm Antonius Calewa might have taken affront and started one of his infamous rants - something that Savajev himself was not anxious to be part of. Calmly the grey-haired aide said his and Vladimir's thanks to the jeweller, who smiled and bowed to the Neo-Ixanian aide. Deftly the old man pulled out the necklace and placed it into its velvet tray, closing the lid. With a smile, he then handed it over to Vladimir.

*****

Mikhail smiled, folding his paper and then placing it aside. Clearly there would be no servants present now; even Mariga seemed to have disappeared somewhere, and there was no sign of Savajev, who otherwise seemed to follow Mikhail like a shadow.

"I slept decently, thank you", he said, with a smile on his face as he poured himself some more tea, adding a drop or two of a clear liquid from a small silver bottle on the table. "I recommend you eat heartily, dear sister. We have a long way ahead of us: by train to the Northlands today, hunting tomorrow. After that I am sure you are eager to continue your tour."

Mikhail smiled a little wickedly at this point. "After all, I don't want diplomatic troubles for dominating your time so..."

OOC: Nathaniel BUMPo. Also,
1.) apologies for using the wrong term. I thought "Isa" to be the name of your nation, therefore the adjective being "Isan".
2.) Shapeshifter super soldier with a wolf companion and a spaceship... Not saying a thing. :D
3.) Calm down ;)

OOC sorry thought you may be someone how don't listen and isa from killzone and what it stand for in my sig

Shapeshifter super soldier with a wolf companion and a spaceship... Not saying a thing

Shapeshifter Ruler soldier with a shadow wolves as companion and married to 3 Werewolve's ,3 Vampire's ,2 Spirit's and 1 human wifes with spaceships, that FT me all the way :D

Savajev nodded, clearly pleased that Vladimir had not insisted on paying. Otherwise the otherwise calm Antonius Calewa might have taken affront and started one of his infamous rants - something that Savajev himself was not anxious to be part of. Calmly the grey-haired aide said his and Vladimir's thanks to the jeweller, who smiled and bowed to the Neo-Ixanian aide. Deftly the old man pulled out the necklace and placed it into its velvet tray, closing the lid. With a smile, he then handed it over to Vladimir.

Vladimir smiled. "My wife will be thrilled when she sees this. Thank you for taking me here, Leo and thank you for the necklace, Mr. Calewa."

*****

Mikhail smiled, folding his paper and then placing it aside. Clearly there would be no servants present now; even Mariga seemed to have disappeared somewhere, and there was no sign of Savajev, who otherwise seemed to follow Mikhail like a shadow.

"I slept decently, thank you", he said, with a smile on his face as he poured himself some more tea, adding a drop or two of a clear liquid from a small silver bottle on the table. "I recommend you eat heartily, dear sister. We have a long way ahead of us: by train to the Northlands today, hunting tomorrow. After that I am sure you are eager to continue your tour."

"It will be nice to see the Northlands today; I'm eager to see more of this nation and I am anxious to continue my tour of this world; there is so much to see and do and so many people to talk to."

Mikhail smiled a little wickedly at this point. "After all, I don't want diplomatic troubles for dominating your time so..."

Anastasia grinned. "I'm sure they're will not be any diplomats ranting about it."

(OOC: Jumping ahead a little...)

Mikhail only smiled at Anastasia's optimism. The rest of the dinner went smoothly with small-talk, basically the two monarchs merely stepping outside of their titles to talk as people. Mikhail did his best to be a good host, gladly telling stories about his childhood, and stories that he had learned as a young boy.

Nonetheless, duty called all too soon with the arrival of Savajev and Vladimir. In his liege's presence the grey-haired major domo reasserted his stern appearance, calmly reminding the two monarchs that the train would be waiting for them soon. With that, the breakfast was brought to a halt and the last preparations for the trip were made.

An hour and a half later, the two limousines pulled in front of the Halsanki Central railway station, a large building made of red granite and steelbarred windows. Cheering crowds waving Neo-Ixanian and Northern Rangerian flags were there to greet the two monarchs as they made their way to the pier. There, a private train was waiting for them, under the protection of the Home Guard. Mikhail smiled and turned to Anastasia, offering his gloved hand to help her step inside the dark red train car with the coat-of-arms of House Halsar emblazoned on its side.

(OOC: Jumping ahead a little...)

Mikhail only smiled at Anastasia's optimism. The rest of the dinner went smoothly with small-talk, basically the two monarchs merely stepping outside of their titles to talk as people. Mikhail did his best to be a good host, gladly telling stories about his childhood, and stories that he had learned as a young boy.

Anastasia told Mikhail all about her childhood and stories that she had learned; he even told him about how much time and effort was spent to groom her into the ideal heir to the throne when she was born.

Nonetheless, duty called all too soon with the arrival of Savajev and Vladimir. In his liege's presence the grey-haired major domo reasserted his stern appearance, calmly reminding the two monarchs that the train would be waiting for them soon. With that, the breakfast was brought to a halt and the last preparations for the trip were made.

Anastasia warmly recieved Vladimir and was glad to hear about the purchase of the necklace for his wife; Vladimir smiled when he listened to Anastasia say how his wife would adore him for buying her such a gift.

An hour and a half later, the two limousines pulled in front of the Halsanki Central railway station, a large building made of red granite and steelbarred windows. Cheering crowds waving Neo-Ixanian and Northern Rangerian flags were there to greet the two monarchs as they made their way to the pier. There, a private train was waiting for them, under the protection of the Home Guard. Mikhail smiled and turned to Anastasia, offering his gloved hand to help her step inside the dark red train car with the coat-of-arms of House Halsar emblazoned on its side.

Anastasia smiled at the crowds as she took Mikhail's hand and walked aboard the dark red train car; reminiscing about the days she had to spend walking through crowds back in Ixania. "Shall we find our seats, Mikhail?"

Mikhail chuckled. "I do not think finding our seats will be a problem", he said, opening the door to the Royal Car. Inside was a large salon, furnished in 19th century Empire style. In one corner, a large TV screen was stappled to the wall. The car was cut in two by a separating wall, decked with a bookshelf filled with books. Comfortable chairs and sofas made up the interior.

"This car has been in the family for fifty years. On the other side, are the sleeping compartments for myself, you, Vladimir and Savajev. All separate, of course", he said with a smile as he took off his hat and jacket, placing them into the closet. "Make yourself comfortable."

Outside the car, Savajev was helping Vladimir with his luggage. They would travel in a car next to the Royal Car, along with a squad from the Home Guard and clerical workers. He looked around, trying to find the Imperial officer...

(- Bump - Though, if you like we can move on or just 'time-jump' the last day of hunting in Northlands.)

Mikhail chuckled. "I do not think finding our seats will be a problem", he said, opening the door to the Royal Car. Inside was a large salon, furnished in 19th century Empire style. In one corner, a large TV screen was stappled to the wall. The car was cut in two by a separating wall, decked with a bookshelf filled with books. Comfortable chairs and sofas made up the interior.

OOC: We can time jump if you want.

"The Royal Car is pretty much the same as my own Imperial Car; as they are both filled with all the luxuries a monarch could want when traveling through their nation by train. Nonetheless, I must say this car looks good aesthetically."

"This car has been in the family for fifty years. On the other side, are the sleeping compartments for myself, you, Vladimir and Savajev. All separate, of course", he said with a smile as he took off his hat and jacket, placing them into the closet. "Make yourself comfortable."

Anastasia smiled as she made herself comfortable. "You must tell me more about what we will be doing when we arrive at our destination."

Mikhail sat down on one of the chairs just as the old train's whistle blew. They were travelling by an older train, knowing that the 'ancient' car might not take kindly to the speed of newer and more efficient trains.

"Well, to my understanding it is the final day of your visit, so I thought we might do something less common. Have you ever hunted with a crossbow?"

The young prince's face flashed into a grin immediately after the question, the train pulling out from the station with them in the Royal Car, and Savajev, Vladimir and Col. David travelling in the passenger car with the personnel and the Home Guard detachment. The train was slowly picking up speed, cutting across the snow-laden Halsanki and heading past the motorways to the densely forested countryside. The large pines and spruces were dark green under the weight of snow, and from time to time the monotony of the scenery was broken by fields and small towns.

OOC hey who said you can say where my guy is, far you know he may like to be on the roof as if he was on a troop train

OOC hey who said you can say where my guy is, far you know he may like to be on the roof as if he was on a troop train

OOC: Well, since I hadn't heard from you in days I thought it might be best to at least get you on the train...

OOC: Well, since I hadn't heard from you in days I thought it might be best to at least get you on the train...
OOC i see if no one talking to him or did thing he have something to say about,they just there ,then waste with small post of what they doing EG every hour

PS i'am fine that you knowledge he there with the group

Mikhail sat down on one of the chairs just as the old train's whistle blew. They were travelling by an older train, knowing that the 'ancient' car might not take kindly to the speed of newer and more efficient trains.

"Well, to my understanding it is the final day of your visit, so I thought we might do something less common. Have you ever hunted with a crossbow?"

"Not particularly; although I have hunted in a sense with one of my father's friends when I was younger as my father had a forest lodge which he would take me to whenever they were not constantly grooming me."

Mikhail nodded. "Well, now is your chance. Hunting is one of my favourite pastimes in the few occasions I have time for it", he said, smiling. "And I'll teach you, if you'd like."

Mikhail nodded. "Well, now is your chance. Hunting is one of my favourite pastimes in the few occasions I have time for it", he said, smiling. "And I'll teach you, if you'd like."

"I would not mind learning how to hunt with a crossbow, Mikhail. Perhaps, one day, you could visit Ixania; I would be glad to give you a personal tour of the nation I reign over."

"I would not mind learning how to hunt with a crossbow, Mikhail. Perhaps, one day, you could visit Ixania; I would be glad to give you a personal tour of the nation I reign over."

"Perhaps", Mikhail answered, smiling that enigmatic smile of his.

The train trip to the Northlands was quite uneventful, the two royals spending their time talking and relaxing in the Royal Car, and Savajev making sure that there was no rowdiness in the passenger car. He kept an especially watchful eye on Colonel David, making sure that the officer knew his place.

The scenery changed slowly, the alternating forests and fields giving way to smaller shrubs as they approached the Arctic Circle. Here, despite the season, winter still had a strong hold of the land, even though the approaching spring already warmed the smooth hillsides and the mountains in the distance. Finally, after hours of travelling, the train ground to a halt. Outside, a squadron of SUVs was waiting to carry the Prince, his guests and their entourage to the the Royal Hunting Lodge.

Imperial Troops carrying Full Combat load of 98 pounds / 49 Kgs jump easy off the Roof of passenger cars where they been the whole trip easy

"man that Savajev a dumb ass he thinks he out ranks you as he aid to Mikhail "sadi the Majlor

"he don't i hold more power then that fuck wit,he can't give order's to go to war, i can"said David before landing on the ground like a cat

Imperial Troops carrying Full Combat load of 98 pounds / 49 Kgs jump easy off the Roof of passenger cars where they been the whole trip easy

"man that Savajev a dumb ass he thinks he out ranks you as he aid to Mikhail "sadi the Majlor

"he don't i hold more power then that fuck wit,he can't give order's to go to war, i can"said David before landing on the ground like a cat

OOC: WTF?! You seriously think nobogy would have noticed combat-ready foreign soldiers on the train transporting the monarch and a visiting empress?!

No offence, Imp, but that just won't do :mad: That if anything is godmodding.

"Perhaps", Mikhail answered, smiling that enigmatic smile of his.

The train trip to the Northlands was quite uneventful, the two royals spending their time talking and relaxing in the Royal Car, and Savajev making sure that there was no rowdiness in the passenger car. He kept an especially watchful eye on Colonel David, making sure that the officer knew his place.

The scenery changed slowly, the alternating forests and fields giving way to smaller shrubs as they approached the Arctic Circle. Here, despite the season, winter still had a strong hold of the land, even though the approaching spring already warmed the smooth hillsides and the mountains in the distance. Finally, after hours of travelling, the train ground to a halt. Outside, a squadron of SUVs was waiting to carry the Prince, his guests and their entourage to the the Royal Hunting Lodge.

Anastasia smiled at Mikhail before stepping calmly out of the train dressed in her comfortable and warm winter coat and with her Russian style hat donning her head. She waved to Vladimir before following Mikhail and reminiscing about the times she visited the lodge back in Ixania. "Mikhail, this will probably bring back memories of my childhood; and I must say that this place is aesthetically nice despite it being cold. I've grown used to winter, you know."

OOC: WTF?! You seriously think nobogy would have noticed combat-ready foreign soldiers on the train transporting the monarch and a visiting empress?!

No offence, Imp, but that just won't do :mad: That if anything is godmodding.

OOC i said all the long they were in full gear from the start of the thread just not the weight of it and i said occ as far you know they on top of the train

OOC i said all the long they were in full gear from the start of the thread just not the weight of it and i said occ as far you know they on top of the train

OOC: I honestly don't remember you mentioning any kind of Imperial troops, besides the whole issue with the limousine in the beginning. But okay, I'll roll with that.

OOC: I honestly don't remember you mentioning any kind of Imperial troops, besides the whole issue with the limousine in the beginning. But okay, I'll roll with that.

OOC you look back i said see sign up thread for what i have in a post
here the post
http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13418196&postcount=9

OOC: Sorry for the long silence, I've been busy as hell...

IC:

Mikhail smiled to himself as he and Anastasia stepped into one of the SUVs and drove off, escorted by a pair of the Home Guard vehicles and led by a larger plow-truck to make sure that the roads were clear of snow for the royalty to pass.

At the railway station, Savajev marched calmly to Colonel David and his troops. The old man clearly did not like what he saw, as the piercing, cold gaze of his eyes made the freezing wind seem like a soft summer wind.

"Colonel, while I applaud you and your men's... enthusiasm, the Royal Lodge is not meant to accommodate more than we have already in the royal entourage", he said calmly, clearly not in the mood for argument. "We have organized housing for your troops while we are here. You personally are of course welcome to join us at the Lodge."

OOC it only those that were in the M21's which is ten, not the whole dam lot of them
IC

"no they can just sleep outside like they done at the frontline's in summer and in winter with subzero Temperature's, after all we combat troops not toy soldiers"said a Captain as David was loading a Bastet (http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t69/zxc_047/Imperial%20MT%20Navy-Army-Air%20Forces/ImperialBastetMG.jpg) he was carrying then his usely Anudis (http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t69/zxc_047/Imperial%20MT%20rifle/AssultRifleLayoutforshop.png) as he was checking it
"mm you learn"said David to the 20 year old soldier who was the owner of the MG

OOC2 RL before NS i say

OOC: Bump.

IC:

Savajev scoffed. "Very well. But I trust you remember, you are a guest in this country. Your men will be appointed a location once we get to the lodge. But I will not have Her Imperial Majesty's last day in the Principality turn into some sort of imperial bivouac. Do we understand each other, colonel?"

The aide said all this with a calm, even voice, but it was his eyes that spoke volumes. He was certainly getting figurative gray hairs from this over-zealous officer, and despite his age he was neither blind nor dumb.

"Oh, and furthermore... Teach your troops some manners. I would hate to ruin these last moments by cutting some cocky youngster's tongue out for mocking myself or His Majesty."

Whether Savajev intended to go through with his threat, was not clarified. The old man turned around and started walking back to his SUV.

By the end of the day, the whole entourage had arrived to the old mansion that stood by a frozen lake. The royal hunting lodge was a site of welcoming warmth, as roaring fires told as the two blue-bloods entered its halls.

"I must say that this lodge is quite nice aesthetically; but perhaps the monarch of Northern Rangeria would show me around the lodge? I'd love to see every inch of the lodge..and who better to should me around then the Prince of Northern Rangeria himself."

Mikhail laughed loudly, looking at Anastasia with sparkling eyes. "Flattery will get you everywhere, cousin", he chuckled as he led Anastasia inside. He helped the jacket off her, putting it and his own in the closet. Vladimir and Savajev would arrive later with another SUV, hopefully after organizing things with the colonel and his troops.

The entrance hall was a large room, the staircases leading to the second floor, the corridor upstairs forming a terrace around the hall. "It is a simple organization, really... Servants and staff sleep upstairs, the master bedroom and the guest rooms are on the ground floor, along with the living and dining rooms. Kitchen and storage are downstairs."

no heard the words that sounded like 12 year old know it all that came from Savajev as all stop wasting their time listening an turn up what ever music they had playing in their helmet's which they could only hear

--------

before long no one could see them in the Area they had Walked to as they were now Hiden by camouflage and was not moving about

Mikhail laughed loudly, looking at Anastasia with sparkling eyes. "Flattery will get you everywhere, cousin", he chuckled as he led Anastasia inside. He helped the jacket off her, putting it and his own in the closet. Vladimir and Savajev would arrive later with another SUV, hopefully after organizing things with the colonel and his troops.

"I only mean to be polite, Mikhail." Anastasia said with a sly grin as she walked around with her Rangerian host. "I must thank you for taking me here, Mikhail....well, I'd ought to thank you for allowing me to visit and for taking the time to be my tour guide. Thank you for all of that."

The entrance hall was a large room, the staircases leading to the second floor, the corridor upstairs forming a terrace around the hall. "It is a simple organization, really... Servants and staff sleep upstairs, the master bedroom and the guest rooms are on the ground floor, along with the living and dining rooms. Kitchen and storage are downstairs."

"You have made this place aesthetically presentable, Mikhail; every room is clean and tidy. I must say that I have a lodge or two back in Ixania and I used to partake in visiting a lodge back when my father reigned. I was only a young girl then."

bump.

OOC: My apologies for the silence... The internet connection died completely a couple of days back... I don't know how well this will stay up, either. Also... the suitor thread is where?

IC:

"I wish I could take the credit for this place, dear cousin", Mikhail said as he led Anastasia to the sitting room, where a good fire was already burning in the old stone fireplace. "But no, this place is quite old... 19th century, actually. It was built during the Occupation, as a hunting lodge for the Governor General of Northern Rangeria", he continued, with a tinge of sorrow in his voice as he sat down on one of the large armchairs. "My father was actually the first Northern Rangerian Prince to come here... soon after the declaration of independence..."

OOC: My apologies for the silence... The internet connection died completely a couple of days back... I don't know how well this will stay up, either. Also... the suitor thread is where?

IC:

"I wish I could take the credit for this place, dear cousin", Mikhail said as he led Anastasia to the sitting room, where a good fire was already burning in the old stone fireplace. "But no, this place is quite old... 19th century, actually. It was built during the Occupation, as a hunting lodge for the Governor General of Northern Rangeria", he continued, with a tinge of sorrow in his voice as he sat down on one of the large armchairs. "My father was actually the first Northern Rangerian Prince to come here... soon after the declaration of independence..."

OOC: Thank you for telling me that and I'll bump the suitor (sign-up) thread for you.

"You must be very passionate about the Occupation, Mikhail and I can understand that well. In Ixania, we are passionate about the life of our founding father, Leto the Great. We fondly remember him and his many achievements as much as you remember the Occupation. Ixania has never been occupied but we have made sure that anyone seeking to will face a stern and stubborn enemy who is ruthless in protecting family and nation."

Anastasia smiled. "I am a direct descendant of Leto in the paternal line as well, Mikhail and I have always idolized Leto as a sort of hero in my life. Ixanian men and women have honored him for centuries."

Mikhail smiled, but that smile seemed to be rather joyless as he poured two shots of brandy.

"Northern Rangerians generally are. If you remember what my mother told you, we were under Greater Rangerian boot for almost two hundred years. And it has been barely over twenty years since the War for Independence ended. There is not a soul alive today who doesn't have a connection to the Occupation, either because they remember it or... because they lost someone because of it."

Mikhail sighed, lost in his memories for a moment.

"Leto the Great?" he asked curiously, a small smile returning to his lips when he listened to Anastasia. "It would seem, then, that our St Gid or the First Prince are quite similar to your Leto, at least in spirit. You remember? The reliquary in Halsanki? And the painting in the National Gallery?"

Mikhail smiled a little. "That's the problem with being blueblood, really... When just about everybody learns your lineage in school as part of a history class, it takes a good deal of the interest out of knowing your own family roots."

"In any case... tomorrow's the last day of your visit, correct? I'll wake you up early, so we can get some hunting done."

Mikhail smiled, but that smile seemed to be rather joyless as he poured two shots of brandy.

"Northern Rangerians generally are. If you remember what my mother told you, we were under Greater Rangerian boot for almost two hundred years. And it has been barely over twenty years since the War for Independence ended. There is not a soul alive today who doesn't have a connection to the Occupation, either because they remember it or... because they lost someone because of it."

"It is always a good thing to remember the past and pay respects to the dead and I am glad to see that people are actually trying to remember their nation's history instead of disposing with it as merely something that happened long ago."

Mikhail sighed, lost in his memories for a moment.

"Leto the Great?" he asked curiously, a small smile returning to his lips when he listened to Anastasia. "It would seem, then, that our St Gid or the First Prince are quite similar to your Leto, at least in spirit. You remember? The reliquary in Halsanki? And the painting in the National Gallery?"

"Leto the Great unified the Ixanian people into a nation and his descendants reigned for many years; every Ixanian man, woman and child learns about his achievements and those of his army and friends. I do remember the reliquiary and the painting...I am still amazed that an Ixanian princess lived in Northern Rangeria."

"I was amazed of it myself, to be honest", Mikhail answered, smiling. "I actually thought of that painting the first time I saw a photograph of you."

"I was amazed of it myself, to be honest", Mikhail answered, smiling. "I actually thought of that painting the first time I saw a photograph of you."

"Many people look at photographs of me and I've had plenty of admirers but yet I do not commit myself to a romantic relationship with anyone. Right now I'm simply the single and childless woman who became an Empress."

Mikhail smiled a wry smile, looking straight at Anastasia.

"I meant that the resemblance was uncanny", he said with a teasing tone before taking a sip from his drink.

Mikhail smiled a wry smile, looking straight at Anastasia.

"I meant that the resemblance was uncanny", he said with a teasing tone before taking a sip from his drink.

Anastasia smiled. "I'm going to look into this Ixanian princess who lived here....it will be interesting to learn more about her."

Mikhail smiled and nodded. "Ah, I almost forgot", he then said and stood up. He walked briefly into the foyer, to rummage something from his coat pocket.

When he returned, he was holding a small, silver-colored memory stick. "After we discussed Queen Karina, I went to have a talk with one of the professors at Halsanki University. He was kind enough to gather a small biography of her on such short notice, as well as some paintings and documents relating to her", he said with a smile, giving Anastasia the stick.

Mikhail smiled and nodded. "Ah, I almost forgot", he then said and stood up. He walked briefly into the foyer, to rummage something from his coat pocket.

When he returned, he was holding a small, silver-colored memory stick. "After we discussed Queen Karina, I went to have a talk with one of the professors at Halsanki University. He was kind enough to gather a small biography of her on such short notice, as well as some paintings and documents relating to her", he said with a smile, giving Anastasia the stick.

"I must thank you for the memory stick; it should enlighten me about the life and times of Queen Karina....and I'll make sure to show it to my mother and other relatives who will be sure to have interest in learning about her."

Mikhail nodded as he sat down again. An old grandfather clock suddenly began to bong, the sombre tone echoing in the warm, cozy room.

"Well... It seems the night is falling fast. I think I will turn in for the night. I advice you do the same, Anastasia. I'll wake you up early, before sunrise."

Mikhail nodded as he sat down again. An old grandfather clock suddenly began to bong, the sombre tone echoing in the warm, cozy room.

"Well... It seems the night is falling fast. I think I will turn in for the night. I advice you do the same, Anastasia. I'll wake you up early, before sunrise."

"I'll turn in as well but do you think that you could take me to my room?"

Mikhail smiled at Anastasia's request. "It would not be proper, I suppose. But... seeing that our chaperones have yet to arrive...", he said with a teasing tone of voice, and then extended his hand to Anastasia.

Meanwhile, Savajev was cursing with the reason they were late. The car on which he and Vladimir had been travelling towards the hunting lodge had suddenly frozen on the road, the engine and the lights simply dying out. The old man and the driver had been at the hood for a good while now, trying to figure out what was wrong. Finally, the grey-haired aide opened the backseat door, looking at Vladimir.

"It seems that the mechanic had not prepared for this cold spell. The engine is useless", he reported in a calm tone of voice. "I already called the Lodge, they'll send a car to pick us up. Are you okay until then?"

Mikhail smiled at Anastasia's request. "It would not be proper, I suppose. But... seeing that our chaperones have yet to arrive...", he said with a teasing tone of voice, and then extended his hand to Anastasia.

"Thank you, Mikhail. I must say that I look forward to seeing the room prepared for me; I am sure it is fit for royalty."

Meanwhile, Savajev was cursing with the reason they were late. The car on which he and Vladimir had been travelling towards the hunting lodge had suddenly frozen on the road, the engine and the lights simply dying out. The old man and the driver had been at the hood for a good while now, trying to figure out what was wrong. Finally, the grey-haired aide opened the backseat door, looking at Vladimir.

"It seems that the mechanic had not prepared for this cold spell. The engine is useless", he reported in a calm tone of voice. "I already called the Lodge, they'll send a car to pick us up. Are you okay until then?"

Vladimir could tell that something was wrong as he listened to Savajev cursing in anger. "I don't mind waiting here until we are picked up; as long as I can stay warm and the like I will be alright, Leo. Thank you."

Mikhail chuckled a little. "I hope you won't be disappointed in that respect, dear cousin. We have purposefully kept this place relatively simple, a safe haven away from the world, if you will", he said as he led Anastasia to her bedroom. He pushed the door open, revealing a quite simple room, with a large, comfortable bed, a sturdy oak table and wardrobe. It was already dark outside the large window, but one could see the shadow of a nearby mountain looming over the valley, a black mound against the velvet blue of the night sky.

Meanwhile, Savajev nodded. "Well, it should not be too long", he said and pulled out a small flask from his pocket, offering it to Vladimir. "Here. Have a sip. It will keep you warm."

Das Bump.

Mikhail chuckled a little. "I hope you won't be disappointed in that respect, dear cousin. We have purposefully kept this place relatively simple, a safe haven away from the world, if you will", he said as he led Anastasia to her bedroom. He pushed the door open, revealing a quite simple room, with a large, comfortable bed, a sturdy oak table and wardrobe. It was already dark outside the large window, but one could see the shadow of a nearby mountain looming over the valley, a black mound against the velvet blue of the night sky.

Meanwhile, Savajev nodded. "Well, it should not be too long", he said and pulled out a small flask from his pocket, offering it to Vladimir. "Here. Have a sip. It will keep you warm."

"This room is quite aesthetically presentable and the bed is comfortable, Mikhail. I must thank you for this room which has such a good view of the mountain nearby. I guess this means good night so adieu, my fellow monarch."

Anastasia smiled before she had Mikhail leave; she did not want him to see her change into her nightgown.

----------

Vladimir took a sip from Leo's flask and thanked him with a smile. "What kind of drink is this?"

Mikhail nodded politely. "Adieu, dear cousin", he said with a smile as he returned to the door. He did, however, offer a teasing grin when he saw Anastasia turn to look at the door before he finally closed it.

*****

Savajev grinned a little.

"Illegal, let's just leave it at that", he answered just as Vladimir's throat began to burn. It felt like he was choking, the strong liquour burning him from inside out. The choking feeling did lessen after a few seconds though, leaving a deep, pleasant warm that reached from the Ixanian aide's scalp down to the very tips of his toes.

"Feels good, doesn't it?" the grey-haired man asked as he took a deep sip himself. "Officially we frown on this... but His Majesty has graciously turned a blind eye to this vice of mine."

Mikhail nodded politely. "Adieu, dear cousin", he said with a smile as he returned to the door. He did, however, offer a teasing grin when he saw Anastasia turn to look at the door before he finally closed it.

After changing into her night clothes, Anastasia looked out the window briefly before tucking herself in and falling asleep on the comfortable bed that she was given; dreaming about various things which only she was privy to.

*****

Savajev grinned a little.

"Illegal, let's just leave it at that", he answered just as Vladimir's throat began to burn. It felt like he was choking, the strong liquour burning him from inside out. The choking feeling did lessen after a few seconds though, leaving a deep, pleasant warm that reached from the Ixanian aide's scalp down to the very tips of his toes.

Vladimir grinned a little before he felt the full effects of the Rangerian liquor in his body; it was something that he was definately not really used to but yet he was able to handle it as if he was used to it.

"Feels good, doesn't it?" the grey-haired man asked as he took a deep sip himself. "Officially we frown on this... but His Majesty has graciously turned a blind eye to this vice of mine."

"He doth not see the vices of faithful servants but of those who are not then?" Vladimir said with a grin. "Yes; it feels good. Thank you, Leo."

Leo chuckled.

"You could say that. And this little mixture has kept me warm and nice even during the War", he merely responded before taking a swig from the flask and then pocketing it again.

It was no more than an hour later, than a car appeared to pick them up again and bring them back to the hunting lodge. Apparently the two men's royal protegés had been worried about their well-being, since warm baths, food and drink were provided - even a small flask of the burning liquour for Vladimir.

*****

A few hours later, the sun was still only creeping up from beyond the horizon, when a strong but calm hand shook Anastasia's shoulder a little.

"Wakey wakey", a chuckling male voice cooed before the hand retreated. "Wake up, cousin. We're wasting good hunting time"

The floorboards creaked a little as Prince Mikhail stepped back, giving Anastasia room. He was fully dressed already, wearing a grey overcoat and warm, grey-and-white combat fatigues. On his side he carried a quiver and a hunting knife, and over his shoulder she might see the butt of a crossbow jutting with his movements.

Leo chuckled.

"You could say that. And this little mixture has kept me warm and nice even during the War", he merely responded before taking a swig from the flask and then pocketing it again.

"You fought in the War, Leo? Perhaps you could tell me some war stories."

It was no more than an hour later, than a car appeared to pick them up again and bring them back to the hunting lodge. Apparently the two men's royal protegés had been worried about their well-being, since warm baths, food and drink were provided - even a small flask of the burning liquour for Vladimir.

*****

A few hours later, the sun was still only creeping up from beyond the horizon, when a strong but calm hand shook Anastasia's shoulder a little.

"Wakey wakey", a chuckling male voice cooed before the hand retreated. "Wake up, cousin. We're wasting good hunting time"

The floorboards creaked a little as Prince Mikhail stepped back, giving Anastasia room. He was fully dressed already, wearing a grey overcoat and warm, grey-and-white combat fatigues. On his side he carried a quiver and a hunting knife, and over his shoulder she might see the butt of a crossbow jutting with his movements.

"Good morning, Mikhail. I'll be ready to go in several minutes."

Sending Mikhail out of the room while thinking about how he looked, Anastasia put on some distinctively Ixanian clothes which she knew would be suitable for hunting although she was more into the hunting for food philosophy than into the idea that people could kill an animal just to put its head on the wall. She did, after all, have some sort of an affection for nature and the inhabitants of the forests, etc. Coming out of her room fully dressed and with a smile on her face, she walked towards Mikhail and studied him briefly. It was possible for Mikhail to see that Anastasia's clothes gave her a slender figure but she did not wear it to entice him; she was not promiscuous or anything like that.

"I'm ready to go now, Mikhail. I assume you were out earlier before you woke me up?"

movement inside did not go unnoticed by the troops outside, but no movement by them could seen or heard as they watch through the scopes on thier rifles

The night before, Savajev had suddenly become sullen at Vladimir's requests for war stories.

"I doubt you would enjoy them", he said in a tone of voice that told he was clearly unwilling to share his experiences. "It was a very ugly war, our war of independence against Greater Rangerian occupiers. Let's just say that for them, we were not soldiers. We were... insurgents. And they treated as such."

*****

In the morn, Mikhail had waited patiently in the lobby for Anastasia to finish dressing. When she appeared, he stood up from his chair as a gentleman should when a lady enters.

"Yes, I was getting our transportation ready", he said with a smile and pointed at the two pairs of skis leaning against the wall. "Cars are useless in snow, and snow mobiles will scare away our prey - should we choose to hunt, that is."

Mikhail just smiled and flung his crossbow back to his shoulder. "Shall we, then? It's a good trip cross-country to any good hunting grounds."

Just then Savajev marched into the room, looking unusually grim.

"Your Majesties", he says sternly, bowing to both Mikhail and Anastasia. "Milord, we've received a transmission from the Home Guard in Halsanki. There is a military uprising going on."

All this the grey-haired aide said in one mouthful, clearly not going to waste breath about it. Mikhail's joviality suddenly turned to shock, and his eyes focused on the old man.

"Good God... Greater Rangerians?" he asks.

"Unlikely, sir. The intel on them says that there is no border activity. Our governor in Rovanie has informed that Mr Aho has left his house arrest... unhindered."

"Aho...", Mikhail suddenly hissed, his lips curling into an uncharacteristically vicious snarl, his eyes burning with rage. "We should have executed that bastard when we had the chance!"

"No use crying over that now, m'lord. However, we must get you both to safety. We still hold the Anjala air base near Rovanie. VTOL planes are on their way here. For both of you", the aide continued, his eyes turning to Anastasia.

"Leo", Mikhail snapped. "Minä en jätä kansaani", he continued sternly in Rangerian, clearly showing he was refuting something.

"Majesteetti, meillä ei ole varaa menettää teitä. Kyynelille on ilmoitettu, ja uskolliset varuskunnat ovat hälytystilassa", Leo answered to him. "We will win this, Your Majesty. And pardon me for saying this, but you will be more good to the nation as a monarch than as a martyr."

ooc ok never saw that coming

ooc ok never saw that coming

OOC: Well, I had planned this for a long time... Just decided to stop stalling it and just go on with it. Check the Breaking News thread (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=558131).

OOC: Before I make any replies to your two posts (#337 and #338), NR, does this mean that Anastasia's tour of Northern Rangeria ends here? I'll probably have her and Ixania as neutral in this conflict but the Prince can always be sent to Ixania if he avoids death, that is, he could live in Ixania if the rebels win.

OOC: Well, I had planned this for a long time... Just decided to stop stalling it and just go on with it. Check the Breaking News thread (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=558131).

OOC let me remind you Both ,i have two Planes at the Airport with other troops and the ten here

OOC let me remind you Both ,i have two Planes at the Airport with other troops and the ten here

OOC: Would those be used to safely secure the Empress of Ixania's safety? I am assuming that Anastasia will be sent back to Ixania; after which she will make a declaration about her government's stance on the conflict. I already have it all planned out in my mind.

OOC: Would those be used to safely secure the Empress of Ixania's safety? I am assuming that Anastasia will be sent back to Ixania; after which she will make a declaration about her government's stance on the conflict. I already have it all planned out in my mind.

OOC no we leaving her and runing for out lives :p

Yes the two platoons be used to keep her safe,they why they there

OOC: Um... Isa? You do realize that Halsanki airport (where you arrived) is
1.) - most likely under rebel control now and
2.) - several hundred miles away? The train trip from Halsanki to the Northlands took a whole day.

Just saying, since I don't remember you dispatching the planes anywhere from Halsanki. After all, the original intention was that they would return to Halsanki to see Anastasia on her way.

OOC let see my Planes that Anastasia Flow here by at the start be sitting waiting for her return at the Airport are now getting attack

Iam calling Bull shit ,you going to do something like this ,talk to the other RPers in thread First so you know where every one is first

i've really got to talk to NI about this ,seeing it's NI thread and NI has the last say

OOC let see my Planes that Anastasia Flow here by at the start be sitting waiting for her return at the Airport are now getting attack

Iam calling Bull shit ,you going to do something like this ,talk to the other RPers in thread First so you know where every one is first

OOC: Okay, sorry, I must have written my intentions wrong way. I did not mean they were getting attacked. I was merely saying I was under the impression the planes had remained in Halsanki, instead of following the entourage to some viable Northlands airport. I just wanted to make clear what you meant by mentioning the planes.

OOC: Okay, sorry, I must have written my intentions wrong way. I did not mean they were getting attacked. I was merely saying I was under the impression the planes had remained in Halsanki, instead of following the entourage to some viable Northlands airport. I just wanted to make clear what you meant by mentioning the planes.


OOC if you told there was another airport i would have flown the them up and not left them at the airport they landed at first

can we say they have ?

OOC if you told there was another airport i would have flown the them up and not left them at the airport they landed at first

can we say they have ?

OOC: We can. So, Rovanie International or Anjala military base? Your call ;)

And yes, Ix, I think the Northern Rangerian bit ends here. I'm sorry I didn't inform of you this sooner... but I was planning on this for a long time. Now just seemed like an opportune moment, that's all.

Besides, it's a good reason why Mikhail hasn't sought Anastasia's hand. Who'd want to marry a monarch who is fighting a civil war? ;)

OOC: We can. So, Rovanie International or Anjala military base? Your call ;)

And yes, Ix, I think the Northern Rangerian bit ends here. I'm sorry I didn't inform of you this sooner... but I was planning on this for a long time. Now just seemed like an opportune moment, that's all.

Besides, it's a good reason why Mikhail hasn't sought Anastasia's hand. Who'd want to marry a monarch who is fighting a civil war? ;)

OOC your forgiven for now :p

the C12 is a bigger copy of the C-5 Galaxy so which ever one have a long enough runnway is where they at

i still want to talk to NI as i want to know how NI want David and others to act, EG David kicks in door after hearing the New and enter with the ten with to cover her

Edit oh and about the poeple at the embassy

OOC: Isa, what do you wish to talk about? I plan to have Anastasia return to Ixania while plans will be made to evacuate my ambassador and his family to Ixania unless Northern Rangerian rebels get there first.

ooc NR can the ambassador and his family to thts other airport you can get them out with Anastasia now on my planes

ooc NR can the ambassador and his family to thts other airport you can get them out with Anastasia now on my planes

OOC: Um, the ambassador and his family are in Halsanki, remember? David, Mikhail and Anastasia are in the Northlands. And for the sake of clarity, your planes are at Anjala.

OOC: Um, the ambassador and his family are in Halsanki, remember? David, Mikhail and Anastasia are in the Northlands. And for the sake of clarity, your planes are at Anjala.

OOC: By the way, what is going to happen with my ambassador and his family? Will you detain or kill them?....or is it just going to be a surprise? :D

OOC: By the way, what is going to happen with my ambassador and his family? Will you detain or kill them?....or is it just going to be a surprise? :D

OOC: You'll see. Muahaha-muaHAHAHA-RUAAAHHAAHHAA-HACK... *cough* *cough* :D

David covered in snow walks into the Building Cool as Ice and looks at Anastasia
"get what you can carry no time to get all of your bags, the C12s are loaded warmed up and waiting to take off"