NationStates Jolt Archive

OOC1: Warning, this thread will eventually contain some mature content. If this upsets you, then do not read it.

For: Her Imperial Majesty Empress Anastasia II of Ixania
From: Her Imperial Majesty Empress Taunja I of the IFSR
RE: Diplomacy and Trade

Your Imperial Majesty,

I am sure you will recall that recently Ixania and Romandeos have been involved in some informal discussion regarding the establishment of trade and a political friendship. Well it has come to my Parliament’s attention as well, and they have urged me to act on this idea immediately. Therefore it is my pleasure to invite you to send a delegation to Romandeos if you wish, at Your Majesty’s earliest convenience. This delegation should consist of the individuals you feel can best represent you, plus a small basic security force.

I look forward to hearing back from you.

Sincerely,
Her Imperial Majesty Empress Taunja I Lockeheart of the IFSR

OOC2:

My apologies for the basic start, N-I. I'm a bit rushed at the moment.

For: Her Imperial Majesty Empress Anastasia II of Ixania
From: Her Imperial Majesty Empress Taunja I of the IFSR
RE: Diplomacy and Trade

Your Imperial Majesty,

I am sure you will recall that recently Ixania and Romandeos have been involved in some informal discussion regarding the establishment of trade and a political friendship. Well it has come to my Parliament’s attention as well, and they have urged me to act on this idea immediately. Therefore it is my pleasure to invite you to send a delegation to Romandeos if you wish, at Your Majesty’s earliest convenience. This delegation should consist of the individuals you feel can best represent you, plus a small basic security force.

I look forward to hearing back from you.

Sincerely,
Her Imperial Majesty Empress Taunja I Lockeheart of the IFSR

OOC:

My apologies for the basic start, N-I. I'm a bit rushed at the moment.

OOC: No problem; I understand.

For: Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Taunja I Lockeheart of the IFSR
From: Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Anastasia II Schverzinski of the Empire of Ixania

Your Imperial Majesty,

I can recall the informal discussion that our two nations have had concerning the establishment of both a political relationship and trade. I was glad to hear that there is support for such a move in Romandeos and, since there is support for it in Ixania, I shall send you a delegation led by Ivan Rucinsky, my nation's Foreign Minister. I hope that you will not mind if one of my cousins, Prince Gregory, coming in the company of Rucinsky as he has been quite interested in seeing the sights of Romandeos for some time now and would enjoy being able to visit. Whenever you are ready to recieve them, I shall send them over to Romandeos. Thank you for your time, Miss Lockeheart.

Sincerely in friendship,
Empress Anastasia II of the Ixanian Empire (Grand Duchess of Hanslow)

OOC: No problem; I understand.

For: Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Taunja I Lockeheart of the IFSR
From: Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Anastasia II Schverzinski of the Empire of Ixania

Your Imperial Majesty,

I can recall the informal discussion that our two nations have had concerning the establishment of both a political relationship and trade. I was glad to hear that there is support for such a move in Romandeos and, since there is support for it in Ixania, I shall send you a delegation led by Ivan Rucinsky, my nation's Foreign Minister. I hope that you will not mind if one of my cousins, Prince Gregory, coming in the company of Rucinsky as he has been quite interested in seeing the sights of Romandeos for some time now and would enjoy being able to visit. Whenever you are ready to recieve them, I shall send them over to Romandeos. Thank you for your time, Miss Lockeheart.

Sincerely in friendship,
Empress Anastasia II of the Ixanian Empire (Grand Duchess of Hanslow)

For: Her Imperial Majesty Empress Anastasia II of Ixania
From: Her Imperial Majesty Empress Taunja I of the IFSR
RE: Diplomacy and Trade

Your Imperial Majesty,

It would be my pleasure to welcome Minister Rucinsky, and Prince Gregory. This is actually an opportunity. I have not had a break from my office in years by now. Perhaps the Prince could stand a local guide? He would probably have a more enjoyable stay with good directions and somebody to guard him from hounding press.

Sincerely,
Her Imperial Majesty Empress Taunja I Lockeheart of the IFSR

For: Her Imperial Majesty Empress Anastasia II of Ixania
From: Her Imperial Majesty Empress Taunja I of the IFSR
RE: Diplomacy and Trade

Your Imperial Majesty,

It would be my pleasure to welcome Minister Rucinsky, and Prince Gregory. This is actually an opportunity. I have not had a break from my office in years by now. Perhaps the Prince could stand a local guide? He would probably have a more enjoyable stay with good directions and somebody to guard him from hounding press.

Sincerely,
Her Imperial Majesty Empress Taunja I Lockeheart of the IFSR

For: Her Imperial Majesty Empress Taunja I Lockeheart of the IFSR
From: Her Imperial Majesty Empress Anastasia II Schverzinski of the Empire of Ixania

The prince does not mind having a local guide; seeing him or her as a person talented in providing him with knowledge of the land around him during his visit. I shall send the Prince along with Mr. Rucinsky tomorrow; so please arrange for a greeting party at the airport. By the way, I hope that we can meet each other in person one day; it would be nice to make you into one of my personal friends.

Sincerely,
Anastasia II Schverzinski

--------------------------
Sitting in the private plane as it flew calmly over Romandeosian airspace, Prince Gregory looked out the window at the land below him and was quite anxious to land. A young man of 29, he had always been interested in travel since he was a schoolboy at the Imperial Academy and was able to get himself on this trip with Rucinsky only by convincing the Empress and Rucinsky to allow it. As Gregory sat in the plane, Rucinsky was busy talking to his wife over his CD-5 phone; often laughing or making jokes. His wife, though saddened that romantic excursions had to be delayed because of this trip of his, was actually quite proud of her husband and his life and mainly supported him. Gregory had once met his wife, albeit briefly, and that brief meeting made him think about his own lovelife but he shrugged those thoughts away from him for now; he assumed that he would work on finding a woman after returning to Ixania.

The plane gently landed onto the airport runway; with Gregory and Ivan Rucinsky stepping out to find themselves in the nation of Romandeos. Gregory smiled as he studied his surroundings while Ivan finished his phone conversation with his wife; both waiting to be greeted by their hosts.

bump.

IC:

Chadwick Hannah, the MFA official chosen to welcome the Ixanian Prince and Minister, mopped his forehead with an expensive handkerchief and adjusted a little imaginary imperfection on his business coat. Around him, several officials made up the rest of the official welcoming committee. Several yards back the motorcade vehicles were gathered, two limousines and some armored SUVs, a heavily armored diplomatic convoy.

Hannah straightened up as he saw who was coming from the aforementioned motorcade vehicles. Her Imperial Majesty Empress Taunja I Lockeheart looked her characteristically casual self, dressed in blue jeans, a button-up shirt and her expensive but from the rack sports jacket and shades. Her brown hair sat loose and curly on her shoulders.

"Mr. Hannah," she called. "Is everything ready?"

"Yes, Your Majesty," he replied. "We are prepared."

"Excellent!" The Empress treated the diplomat to a dazzling smile.

Minutes later, specially designated airport security had led the Ixanian party in the right direction, and the meeting took place.

"Your Highness, Minister," Hannah spoke formally, addressing the two Ixanian men in turn. "Welcome to Romandeos. I am Chadwick Hannah."

He paused a moment, taking a subtle breathe.

"Permit me to introduce my sovereign, Her Imperial Majesty Empress Taunja I Lockeheart." He gestured back to Taunja, who stepped forward with a nod, a hand extended in greeting.

"Gentlemen," she said. "Once more, welcome to Romandeos."

IC:

Chadwick Hannah, the MFA official chosen to welcome the Ixanian Prince and Minister, mopped his forehead with an expensive handkerchief and adjusted a little imaginary imperfection on his business coat. Around him, several officials made up the rest of the official welcoming committee. Several yards back the motorcade vehicles were gathered, two limousines and some armored SUVs, a heavily armored diplomatic convoy.

Hannah straightened up as he saw who was coming from the aforementioned motorcade vehicles. Her Imperial Majesty Empress Taunja I Lockeheart looked her characteristically casual self, dressed in blue jeans, a button-up shirt and her expensive but from the rack sports jacket and shades. Her brown hair sat loose and curly on her shoulders.

"Mr. Hannah," she called. "Is everything ready?"

"Yes, Your Majesty," he replied. "We are prepared."

"Excellent!" The Empress treated the diplomat to a dazzling smile.

Minutes later, specially designated airport security had led the Ixanian party in the right direction, and the meeting took place.

"Your Highness, Minister," Hannah spoke formally, addressing the two Ixanian men in turn. "Welcome to Romandeos. I am Chadwick Hannah."

He paused a moment, taking a subtle breathe.

"Permit me to introduce my sovereign, Her Imperial Majesty Empress Taunja I Lockeheart." He gestured back to Taunja, who stepped forward with a nod, a hand extended in greeting.

"Gentlemen," she said. "Once more, welcome to Romandeos."

"It is a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Hannah. I am Ivan Rucinsky, the Foreign Minister of the Ixanian Empire and this is Prince Gregory; the one whom the Empress mentioned in her messages to Empress Taunja."

When Taunja arrived, Gregory and Ivan immediately bowed respectfully to her before greeting her. "It is a pleasure to be here in Romandeos, Your Majesty. We hope to have a good time here; seeing much of your beloved nation while improving diplomatic relations between us."

Gregory kept his eye on Taunja; having been told about her before he arrived. She did look quite young, like his reigning cousin, but was older than her. He would be interested in knowing more about Taunja; but for now he was filled primarily with an eagerness to see more of Romandeos. "I hope that the Empress of Romandeos will be able to get me an experienced tour guide who will show me much of this land." Gregory said with a smile. "After all, I am sure Anastasia mentioned that I enjoy traveling."

Prince Gregory's remark was answered by a grin from the Empress that could be described only as impish.

"I certainly can, Your Highness," she said. With a fresh grin. "Will I do?"

"My sovereign has decided the best way to ensure His Highness experiences Romandeos to the fullest is to accompany him personally," said Hannah, using his formal diplomat's tone.

"Exactly." Taunja nodded, smiling brightly at the Ixanians. "Mr. Hannah will be in charge of the Romandeosian negotiations. Things should be straightforward here for the most part. We both know what is desired, and how to get it, and it should all go fairly smoothly."

"Now, gentlemen," Hannah continued, gesturing to the diplomatic vehicles the Romandeosians had brought along in preparation. "If you will follow me? We will see to accomodations, and then we can begin our business."

Prince Gregory's remark was answered by a grin from the Empress that could be described only as impish.

"I certainly can, Your Highness," she said. With a fresh grin. "Will I do?"

"You should be able to tell me more about Romandeos than a mere tour guide, my lady."

"My sovereign has decided the best way to ensure His Highness experiences Romandeos to the fullest is to accompany him personally," said Hannah, using his formal diplomat's tone.

Gregory smiled. "The Empress of Romandeos would arguably be the best tour guide to have; it would be a pleasurable honor to have her at my side."

"Exactly." Taunja nodded, smiling brightly at the Ixanians. "Mr. Hannah will be in charge of the Romandeosian negotiations. Things should be straightforward here for the most part. We both know what is desired, and how to get it, and it should all go fairly smoothly."

"Gregory could go on his tour while I spend time talking to Mr. Hannah about diplomatic relations between our nations; as I am sure Gregory would rather want to see Romandeos than listen to us old diplomats talking."

"Now, gentlemen," Hannah continued, gesturing to the diplomatic vehicles the Romandeosians had brought along in preparation. "If you will follow me? We will see to accomodations, and then we can begin our business."

Ivan and Gregory immediately began following Hannah to the diplomatic vehicles; both of them thinking about the tour and the diplomatic meeting respectfully."

Mr. Hannah led the way, his aides and so on following him, the Empress, with her usual casual attitude towards station, walked with Gregory. Hannah made his best effort to keep Rucinsky alongside him as they walked.

"As you can see, Minister," he said, gesturing to the modern airport. "This is a highly prosperous country. We have experienced troubles in the past, but the life of a nation is often a hard one, after all, and we have re-bounded."

Meanwhile, as the joined groups walked, Gregory might have noticed Taunja's mildly unusual closeness to him. If she was doing so deliberately, she hid it and kept a straight face as they approached the cars. Hannah and Rucinsky went in to one car accompanied by some of both men's underlings and the Empress led Gregory to the second one, with a few guards.

"They follow me everywhere," she said apologetically, pointing to the soldiers in the Imperial Household Guard uniform. "It can be annoying, but, they mean no harm by it."

Mr. Hannah led the way, his aides and so on following him, the Empress, with her usual casual attitude towards station, walked with Gregory. Hannah made his best effort to keep Rucinsky alongside him as they walked.

"As you can see, Minister," he said, gesturing to the modern airport. "This is a highly prosperous country. We have experienced troubles in the past, but the life of a nation is often a hard one, after all, and we have re-bounded."

"It is good to hear that Romandeos has been able to secure its prosperity after suffering from its troubles. Yes, the life of a nation is a hard one, but there are some who can handle it."

Meanwhile, as the joined groups walked, Gregory might have noticed Taunja's mildly unusual closeness to him. If she was doing so deliberately, she hid it and kept a straight face as they approached the cars. Hannah and Rucinsky went in to one car accompanied by some of both men's underlings and the Empress led Gregory to the second one, with a few guards.

Gregory noticed that Taunja was keeping the unusual closeness to him but did not mind it at all; although he did contemplate it at times. "Your Majesty, what shall we see first on our tour of Romandeos?"

"They follow me everywhere," she said apologetically, pointing to the soldiers in the Imperial Household Guard uniform. "It can be annoying, but, they mean no harm by it."

"My cousin, Empress Anastasia II, has to have her Imperial Guardsmen following her everywhere as well but she has been able to handle it well."

"Good for her," said the Empress as she settled in to a seat. The caravan got moving following a few moments.

"You had asked what we should see first?" she said. "Well, there are places a man like you would like throughout this country. If you like skiing, then you're in for a treat, as the San Fiorenza mountains are always snow covered. They happen to be the tallest mountains in Romandeos. We heave beaches around here that are positively gorgeous, white and black. Despite our population we have managed to keep many large and healthy forests alive."

For a moment, the monarch paused in thought.

"If you find exploring cities more enjoyable, then, we can satisfy that craving readily enough. We have several and they are all quite exciting places."

******************************

Meanwhile, in the second car, Mr. Hannah was speaking to Minister Rucinsky.

"Minister, basically the goal of this neogitation for my country is to set up the links necessary to carry out basic commerce and diplomatic discourse. From a basic relationship such as that, we can hopefully move on to a more solid link in the future. If alliance is possible this time, we will be very pleased, but the Imperial Federated States will be satisfied for the time being, if necessary, by basic trade and diplomacy."

Good for her," said the Empress as she settled in to a seat. The caravan got moving following a few moments.

"You had asked what we should see first?" she said. "Well, there are places a man like you would like throughout this country. If you like skiing, then you're in for a treat, as the San Fiorenza mountains are always snow covered. They happen to be the tallest mountains in Romandeos. We heave beaches around here that are positively gorgeous, white and black. Despite our population we have managed to keep many large and healthy forests alive."

"All of those sound like places I want to visit; I want to see every inch of Romandeos or as much as is possible during my visit."

For a moment, the monarch paused in thought.

"If you find exploring cities more enjoyable, then, we can satisfy that craving readily enough. We have several and they are all quite exciting places."

"It would be a pleasure to explore the cities of this realm; especially the capital."

******************************

Meanwhile, in the second car, Mr. Hannah was speaking to Minister Rucinsky.

"Minister, basically the goal of this neogitation for my country is to set up the links necessary to carry out basic commerce and diplomatic discourse. From a basic relationship such as that, we can hopefully move on to a more solid link in the future. If alliance is possible this time, we will be very pleased, but the Imperial Federated States will be satisfied for the time being, if necessary, by basic trade and diplomacy."

"My government has expressed a desire for the exchanging of embassies and the establishment of trade; from there we can discuss creating a student exchange program and the like. An alliance would be alright but Ixania would be satisfied with the knowledge that our nations are, at least, good friends."

IC:

For a moment Taunja was silent, contemplating what Gregory had said. Every inch of Romandeos. Well, that could be possible.

"You'd have to stay here a while for that, Your Highness," she said, chuckling in response to his naked enthusiasm. "Romandeos is a massive land, and most here is worth seeing at least once. How long will you be staying with us?"

*******************************

"Minister, if an alliance is possible on honorable and just terms, we will have it made before this day is through. Trade should be simple, as well."

Hannah paused a moment as an aide spoke to him.

"I think we are nearing the Palace as I speak. The diplomatic suite there is an impressive place. We just keep it ready at all times, you see, just in case we need it. I am certain it will be suitable for you."

******************************

Mr. Hannah led the diplomatic party directly to the diplomatic area, which sat in its own wing of the Palace Complex. It contained lodgings for foreigners, at least a dozen large meeting rooms, and more. Everything was modern and the intense cleanliness of the place suggested it was always kept in good shape.

Prince Gregory, meanwhile, was led by Taunja elsewhere in the Palace.

"So," she started. "Gregory-may I call you Gregory?-I understand you and the Empress are cousins? I imagine being born into royalty makes dealing with the level of wealth here less intimidating. I know that when I made it here following my predecessor's death, I was a bit nervous. Even now, I am not quite entirely used to it really."

For a moment, she paused as she led him through the hallways.

"Minister Rucinsky and his delegation will be housed in the Diplomatic Suite as is normal, but since you are not here on purely diplomatic business, I thought it might be best to put you up in one of the separate Guest Houses. They are in a different part of the Complex, and are usually reserved for special guests like relatives and so on."

IC:

For a moment Taunja was silent, contemplating what Gregory had said. Every inch of Romandeos. Well, that could be possible.

"You'd have to stay here a while for that, Your Highness," she said, chuckling in response to his naked enthusiasm. "Romandeos is a massive land, and most here is worth seeing at least once. How long will you be staying with us?"

"I will be staying for as long as Rucinsky does; although I do not mind extending the duration of my visit to Romandeos if it will allow me to see more of it."

*******************************

"Minister, if an alliance is possible on honorable and just terms, we will have it made before this day is through. Trade should be simple, as well."

"I am glad to hear such words, Mr. Hannah. Her Majesty, the Empress, should be pleased when I bring her a report on our dealings."

Hannah paused a moment as an aide spoke to him.

"I think we are nearing the Palace as I speak. The diplomatic suite there is an impressive place. We just keep it ready at all times, you see, just in case we need it. I am certain it will be suitable for you."

"I am sure it would be."

******************************

Mr. Hannah led the diplomatic party directly to the diplomatic area, which sat in its own wing of the Palace Complex. It contained lodgings for foreigners, at least a dozen large meeting rooms, and more. Everything was modern and the intense cleanliness of the place suggested it was always kept in good shape.

Prince Gregory, meanwhile, was led by Taunja elsewhere in the Palace.

"So," she started. "Gregory-may I call you Gregory?-I understand you and the Empress are cousins? I imagine being born into royalty makes dealing with the level of wealth here less intimidating. I know that when I made it here following my predecessor's death, I was a bit nervous. Even now, I am not quite entirely used to it really."

"Yes, Taunja; being born into royalty dampens the effect of dealing with this level of wealth less intimidating and thus I won't fret over it; wealth is wealth no matter where you are and yes, you can call me Gregory."


"Minister Rucinsky and his delegation will be housed in the Diplomatic Suite as is normal, but since you are not here on purely diplomatic business, I thought it might be best to put you up in one of the separate Guest Houses. They are in a different part of the Complex, and are usually reserved for special guests like relatives and so on."

"As long as the room is furnished and the bed is comfortable, there will no reason for me to worry about where I am staying."

bump.

OOC:

BUMP.

Letting you know I'm still alive, N-I. Been sick, but I'll be posting here shortly.

OOC:

BUMP.

Letting yo uknow I'm still alive, N-I. Been sick, but I'll be posting here shortly.

OOC: Don't worry about it; I understand. Just post whenever you can.

IC:

"You are welcome to stay as long as you wish, Gregory," Taunja replied. "The business of ruling has kept me busy these past five years, and I need a break in routine anyway. Showing you around is infinitely more fun than reading the latest reports from my Cabinet's Ministries. Besides which I'm pretty sure that half or more of those people don't really like me so they'll be happy to see me leave, if only for a little while."

It was a short walk covering the remaining distance to the Guest House area in the Palace Complex. It was, essentially, a gated community in the Complex in which several private, modern cottages were maintained for special guests.

Like a visiting cousin to a foreign, hopefully soon to be allied, monarch.

"This is the place," said Taunja, pointing out one of the sizeable buildings and handing Gregory a small key set. "It should meet the requirements you named if I'm not mistaken. Decent bedroom, so on. Completely self-contained house."

******************************

"Minister Rucinsky, what my government will desire to know about an alliance made here today will be the specific terms. The word alliance encapsulates a lot of ideas, you see. Anything from special trade agreements to defense and mutual protection. That said, what, precisely, did you have in mind?"

"You are welcome to stay as long as you wish, Gregory," Taunja replied. "The business of ruling has kept me busy these past five years, and I need a break in routine anyway. Showing you around is infinitely more fun than reading the latest reports from my Cabinet's Ministries. Besides which I'm pretty sure that half or more of those people don't really like me so they'll be happy to see me leave, if only for a little while."

"It would be a pleasure to stay in Romandeos for even just one day, Taunja, for I have been quite interested in visiting ever since my cousin, the Empress, asked if I wanted to accompany Mr. Rucinsky. I must say that travel, in my opinion, is a great way to get out of the confines of repetitive routines such as reading reports like you said and I must say, Taunja, that you look quite beautiful and I would not be surprised if you were popular among the men of Romandeos."

It was a short walk covering the remaining distance to the Guest House area in the Palace Complex. It was, essentially, a gated community in the Complex in which several private, modern cottages were maintained for special guests.

Like a visiting cousin to a foreign, hopefully soon to be allied, monarch.

"This is the place," said Taunja, pointing out one of the sizeable buildings and handing Gregory a small key set. "It should meet the requirements you named if I'm not mistaken. Decent bedroom, so on. Completely self-contained house."

"I am sure that it will be suitable for me, Taunja. Thank you. Will you be waiting outside for me?"

******************************

"Minister Rucinsky, what my government will desire to know about an alliance made here today will be the specific terms. The word alliance encapsulates a lot of ideas, you see. Anything from special trade agreements to defense and mutual protection. That said, what, precisely, did you have in mind?"

"I was assuming that our alliance could be a mixture of mutual protection and trade; although the terms would be discussed between us. First, what does Romandeos seek? I like to know what the other nation seeks so I can develop a good response in my mind; plus know more about what the other nation desires. After all, a foreign minister must know everything about the other nation's desires."

Hearing the Ixanian Prince's words, Taunja flushed just a little and fought the urge to laugh.

"Why, Gregory, I do believe you're trying to engage in flattery!" She chuckled lightly at that. "To answer, yes, I am considered quite attractive by the local men, though I would hardly presume to say I was truly beautiful!"

For a moment Taunja paused, seemingly deep in thought.

"Though...perhaps I should come inside? Show you around?"

******************************

"Romandeos would seek, at the least, basic mutual defense, which is to say a binding, written promise that one will come to the other's aid if attacked, and back up during diplomatic situations. We seek trade, if possible, an international exchange of good such as foods, fuels, and less essential things such as entertainment material, etc..."

Hannah paused, checking his notes.

"Cultural exchange would be prefered as well."

Hearing the Ixanian Prince's words, Taunja flushed just a little and fought the urge to laugh.

"Why, Gregory, I do believe you're trying to engage in flattery!" She chuckled lightly at that. "To answer, yes, I am considered quite attractive by the local men, though I would hardly presume to say I was truly beautiful!"

"That may be so, Taunja, but I do not mind being honest with women when it comes to such things."

For a moment Taunja paused, seemingly deep in thought.

"Though...perhaps I should come inside? Show you around?"

"That would be good; please come inside, Taunja."

******************************

"Romandeos would seek, at the least, basic mutual defense, which is to say a binding, written promise that one will come to the other's aid if attacked, and back up during diplomatic situations. We seek trade, if possible, an international exchange of good such as foods, fuels, and less essential things such as entertainment material, etc..."

Hannah paused, checking his notes.

"Cultural exchange would be prefered as well."

"All of that, especially the cultural exchange, sounds great to me, Mr. Hannah. We can offer Romandeos a diverse variety of goods such as silk, diamonds and even soda and our automobile industry seems to be flourishing. Basic mutual defense would also be suitable; although Ixania has a neutrality policy in place....."

Hannah shook his head firmly when Rucinsky mentioned Ixania's neutrality. He had obviously not clarified what a 'mutual defense pact' meant to Romandeos.

"Please, you misunderstand. Mutual defense, minister, means that should any nation attack Ixania, thus making the Empire the aggrieved party, Romandeos is then obliged to send financial and material aid, at the least, and vice versa if Romandeos is attacked. No direct, military action would be required, though it would certainly expedite the conclusion of any conflicts. Also, should Ixania initiate a conflict without good reason, though we do not assume they would, Romandeos is not obliged to assist, in any way. Again, this works both ways."

******************************

"Umm..." Taunja was at a loss for words. The monarch had intended to jest a little with the Ixanian Prince, but...she couldn't just back down now, and he'd made it quite plain, if he wasn't kidding, this was what he wanted. There was little she could do, really.

"Sure," she said, once more sounding like the confident monarch. She opened his front door, waving him inside.

"As you can see, there is a very spacious front room here, with all the basics right in the open. Entertainment center, comfortable furniture and so on, and beyond this of course you have a kitchen, which is also fully decked out with modern appliances and fully stocked. I had it stocked with an Ixanian bent to its loadout for your benefit. There is also a swimming pool out back and there is fully Internet access and top-of-the-line television links."

While she was speaking, Taunja had removed her sports jacket.

"There, finally," she said, pointing down a hallway. "Is the bedroom, though it isn't likely you'll be there much if we move around the country as much as you seem to wish."

Hannah shook his head firmly when Rucinsky mentioned Ixania's neutrality. He had obviously not clarified what a 'mutual defense pact' meant to Romandeos.

"Please, you misunderstand. Mutual defense, minister, means that should any nation attack Ixania, thus making the Empire the aggrieved party, Romandeos is then obliged to send financial and material aid, at the least, and vice versa if Romandeos is attacked. No direct, military action would be required, though it would certainly expedite the conclusion of any conflicts. Also, should Ixania initiate a conflict without good reason, though we do not assume they would, Romandeos is not obliged to assist, in any way. Again, this works both ways."

"I only meant to state for the record that we have such a policy; so you would know that it existed. Ixania would not mind providing support to Romandeos if we are to get ourselves into a pact founded upon trust between our two nations. We would help you if you need it; as you would help us if we need it."

******************************

"Umm..." Taunja was at a loss for words. The monarch had intended to jest a little with the Ixanian Prince, but...she couldn't just back down now, and he'd made it quite plain, if he wasn't kidding, this was what he wanted. There was little she could do, really.

"Sure," she said, once more sounding like the confident monarch. She opened his front door, waving him inside.

Gregory smiled at Taunja; he was happy that she would come inside with him; he would have asked her for a brief tour as he wanted to know where everything was without spending time finding it. After all, he wanted a tour of Romandeos and that needed time.

"As you can see, there is a very spacious front room here, with all the basics right in the open. Entertainment center, comfortable furniture and so on, and beyond this of course you have a kitchen, which is also fully decked out with modern appliances and fully stocked. I had it stocked with an Ixanian bent to its loadout for your benefit. There is also a swimming pool out back and there is fully Internet access and top-of-the-line television links."

While she was speaking, Taunja had removed her sports jacket.

"There, finally," she said, pointing down a hallway. "Is the bedroom, though it isn't likely you'll be there much if we move around the country as much as you seem to wish."

"I must say that this place is acceptable to me; it has all the luxuries that one would expect as a visiting prince and I must thank you for showing me around. You can go now if you want, Taunja. I'll just get settled in before we go on a tour of the capital city....you'll be outside, right?"

Gregory smiled. "Unless you want to talk then I'm open for that. It would be nice to talk to a foreign monarch and get to know new people...I'm sure you like to meet new people too, Taunja and I'd like to know more about you...more than just the typical basics like Taunja Lockeheart is the Empress of Romandeos and so forth." He had smiled at her again; he was just trying to be friendly and get to know her better as he liked to meet new people and was always polite to people. "I look forward to my tour of Romandeos; it must have plenty of sites, etc for me to see and what better tour guide could I get for such a tour than the Empress of Romandeos herself!"

Hannah nooded when Rucinsky had finished. They had an understanding. This bore good implications for the future.

"Well then, Minister, it seems we have th ebasic outline of what our countries need and want from this alliance. The exact legal terms still need writing, and it still needs to be signed in to effect by authorites beyond ourselves, but we have, at least, reached a preliminary understanding, wouldm't you agree?"

******************************

For a moment, Taunja paused again, jacket in hand, looking at Gregory whilst her mind calculated the possibilities.

"Sure," she said finally, with a smile. "Would you like to talk about anything specific?"

Hannah nooded when Rucinsky had finished. They had an understanding. This bore good implications for the future.

"Well then, Minister, it seems we have th ebasic outline of what our countries need and want from this alliance. The exact legal terms still need writing, and it still needs to be signed in to effect by authorites beyond ourselves, but we have, at least, reached a preliminary understanding, wouldm't you agree?"

"I am glad to hear that we have reached a preliminary understanding, my friend. I believe it is time that we start writing down the exact legal terms and I would be most willing to sign it into effect; as I am the Foreign Minister of Ixania."

******************************

For a moment, Taunja paused again, jacket in hand, looking at Gregory whilst her mind calculated the possibilities.

"Sure," she said finally, with a smile. "Would you like to talk about anything specific?"

"Tell me more about you, Taunja. What does the Empress of Romandeos do beside reading reports and talking to ministers?"

"I am also cleared to sign this agreement for the IFSR," Hannah said. "Though it is not a standard practice at this level, the Empress has made an exception in this case so that she will be more able to accomodate the Prince."

******************************

"Well," Taunja said. "Aside from politics, which have interested me since I got my first office in Parliament, riding horses has always been one of my favorite hobbies. Not racing, mind you, only riding. I tried racing once. Broke my leg, a horrible accident. I couldn't walk right for months."

Her confession begun, Taunja paused a moment in thought.

"I like to ski as well, though I'm probably not the best at that. Certainly a bad instructor, if nothing else, but that's a story for a different day. I enjoy hiking in the woods, camping in the woods, and I even dabble in hunting."

Finally, the Empress paused, as though considering something, finally laughed in response to some private joke, gave a 'what the hell' shrug, and continued.

"I'm also an avid gamer," she said, almost sheepishly. "Video games. Shooters mostly. It's probably the only hobby I have time to engage in lately. I haven't much of a love life, and the others are too time consuming."

Looking sullen for a moment, the Empress soon perked up once more.

"Sorry, Gregory," she said brightly. "Didn't mean to saddle you with my issues. You're supposed to be having a good time, after all."

I am also cleared to sign this agreement for the IFSR," Hannah said. "Though it is not a standard practice at this level, the Empress has made an exception in this case so that she will be more able to accomodate the Prince."

Rucinsky smiled. "The prince is probably happy to be with the Empress; he had told me of his interest in meeting her."

******************************

"Well," Taunja said. "Aside from politics, which have interested me since I got my first office in Parliament, riding horses has always been one of my favorite hobbies. Not racing, mind you, only riding. I tried racing once. Broke my leg, a horrible accident. I couldn't walk right for months."

"Many people that I know absolutely enjoy riding horses; horse riding has always been popular in Ixania and I know one or two of my cousins that have won equestrian awards, etc."

Her confession begun, Taunja paused a moment in thought.

"I like to ski as well, though I'm probably not the best at that. Certainly a bad instructor, if nothing else, but that's a story for a different day. I enjoy hiking in the woods, camping in the woods, and I even dabble in hunting."

"I've gone hiking a couple of times; there are some woods near my personal estate and I usually start early in the morning. As for skiing, I've done some of that but I've also tried snowboarding. There is a resort that we members of the House of Schverzinski often visit."

Finally, the Empress paused, as though considering something, finally laughed in response to some private joke, gave a 'what the hell' shrug, and continued.

"I'm also an avid gamer," she said, almost sheepishly. "Video games. Shooters mostly. It's probably the only hobby I have time to engage in lately. I haven't much of a love life, and the others are too time consuming."

"The Empress' sibling, Prince Nicholas, loves it when I play video games with him. In fact, he'll ask anyone to play with him even a butler. At times, I've even play a game with the Empress herself; we all try to spend time together as one large and nationwide expanded family."

Looking sullen for a moment, the Empress soon perked up once more.

"Sorry, Gregory," she said brightly. "Didn't mean to saddle you with my issues. You're supposed to be having a good time, after all."

"Utter nonsense, Taunja! I was happy to listen to you talk about them. Being a prince or Empress does not prevent one from having problems or what not. You know, if you ever come to Ixania....I'll be your tour guide. It would be a pleasurable honor to give a tour of my beloved homeland to the beautiful and lovely Empress Taunja I of Romandeos who has been generous enough to accompany me on my tour of Romandeos."

"Is that so?" asked Hannah. "I had not heard that. Well, so long as he doesn't mind strong-willed women, he should be well pleased with the Empress."

Having said that, Hannah began the longer, more tedious process of writing a legally binding treaty agreement between nations. It helped that all the basic legal terms had been hammered out beforehand, but still, red tape is red tape.

******************************

"Many people that I know absolutely enjoy riding horses; horse riding has always been popular in Ixania and I know one or two of my cousins that have won equestrian awards, etc."

"Well then, those cousins have one up on me!" the Empress exclaimed with a laugh. "No awards for me. I just like riding."

"I've gone hiking a couple of times; there are some woods near my personal estate and I usually start early in the morning. As for skiing, I've done some of that but I've also tried snowboarding. There is a resort that we members of the House of Schverzinski often visit."

"Hiking is good for the body, I find, especially if you can get started early and have most of the day to yourself, just to enjoy the scenery. You can do that if you go skiing, too...just more quickly." The Empress laughed at that.

"The Empress' sibling, Prince Nicholas, loves it when I play video games with him. In fact, he'll ask anyone to play with him even a butler. At times, I've even play a game with the Empress herself; we all try to spend time together as one large and nationwide expanded family."

"Well it's good to know you all maintain strong family bonds. That is important in any level of society. Without family, the world can become...cold."

"Utter nonsense, Taunja! I was happy to listen to you talk about them. Being a prince or Empress does not prevent one from having problems or what not. You know, if you ever come to Ixania....I'll be your tour guide. It would be a pleasurable honor to give a tour of my beloved homeland to the beautiful and lovely Empress Taunja I of Romandeos who has been generous enough to accompany me on my tour of Romandeos."

"Well, that's very kind of-" Taunja paused a moment. "Beautiful and lovely?" she asked. "Well, it isn't every day somebody calls me that and means it. Usually it's just the flatterers. You mean it, though, I can tell. Thank you."

OOC:

I'd say the official alliance may be considered concluded, N-I, fit to be listed in factbooks and such.

Is that so?" asked Hannah. "I had not heard that. Well, so long as he doesn't mind strong-willed women, he should be well pleased with the Empress."

Having said that, Hannah began the longer, more tedious process of writing a legally binding treaty agreement between nations. It helped that all the basic legal terms had been hammered out beforehand, but still, red tape is red tape.

"Prince Gregory should be well pleased with her; he was quite interested in meeting her since he was told that he could come with me here."

******************************



"Well then, those cousins have one up on me!" the Empress exclaimed with a laugh. "No awards for me. I just like riding."

Gregory smiled. "I'm sure you are a good rider regardless of having no awards, Taunja."



"Hiking is good for the body, I find, especially if you can get started early and have most of the day to yourself, just to enjoy the scenery. You can do that if you go skiing, too...just more quickly." The Empress laughed at that.

"I usually start hiking early in the morning and I usually go alone. It is always nice to just walk through the woods while listening to the birds chirping and the wildlife moving."


"Well it's good to know you all maintain strong family bonds. That is important in any level of society. Without family, the world can become...cold."

"The House of Schverzinski's members are all over Ixania but we all find a way to be together."

"Well, that's very kind of-" Taunja paused a moment. "Beautiful and lovely?" she asked. "Well, it isn't every day somebody calls me that and means it. Usually it's just the flatterers. You mean it, though, I can tell. Thank you."

"I do mean it, Taunja; it is not every day that such a woman accompanies a tourist on his visit to a foreign nation. I've been interested in meeting you since I was told that I could visit Romandeos with Mr. Rucinsky, you know. It's been a pleasurable honor meeting you. Now, shall we begin our tour?"

OOC:

I'd say the official alliance may be considered concluded, N-I, fit to be listed in factbooks and such.

OOC: That's good to hear.

During the next few weeks, Empress Taunja and Prince Gregory toured the country while Minister Rucinsky moved on to his nest assignment and left the young Prince to enjoy his long-awaited sight-seeing expedition throughout all Romandeos. As promised Taunja and her charge saw all the most impressive sights, and the attractions. The San Fiorenza range in southern Romandeos, the tallest mountains in the country, were visited about one week in to the trip. The two engaged in skiing, mountain climbing, hiking, and even spelunking in some nearby caves. It was probably the most fun they had both had in years, especially in Taunja’s case, though she took pains to ensure Gregory had fun.

It was on the third day at a resort/ski lodge in the mountains, Taunja and Gregory sat with hot cocoa mugs in hand, looking out the lodge building’s huge front windows at the snow hanging on the mountains, some distance away from them. A huge fireplace roared softly in the background as the various thrill-seekers in the lodge enjoyed themselves drinking a lot of warm drinks and just trying to relax following a fun day up on the slopes.

“So, Gregory,” Taunja began, leaning back in her seat. Her hand seemed to slip when she moved, and brushed lightly against his. This and things like it had happened occasionally, in the past week, seemingly casual and very accidental. “How do you find Romandeos? It is, I hope, as enjoyable as you believed it would be?”

Before the Ixanian prince could reply, Taunja noticed something behind him and laughed. Looking back at him, she gestured with her eyes.

“You seem to have attracted some…attention,” she remarked. Sure enough, several of the ladies in the large, well furnished sitting area were casting glances his way, and obviously liking what they saw.

“Well,” said the Empress. “I can hardly blame them. You are quite handsome.” Then, she laughed again. “Especially when you're blushing!”

During the next few weeks, Empress Taunja and Prince Gregory toured the country while Minister Rucinsky moved on to his nest assignment and left the young Prince to enjoy his long-awaited sight-seeing expedition throughout all Romandeos. As promised Taunja and her charge saw all the most impressive sights, and the attractions. The San Fiorenza range in southern Romandeos, the tallest mountains in the country, were visited about one week in to the trip. The two engaged in skiing, mountain climbing, hiking, and even spelunking in some nearby caves. It was probably the most fun they had both had in years, especially in Taunja’s case, though she took pains to ensure Gregory had fun.

Gregory enjoyed every minute of the sight-seeing expedition as he saw and heard all the sights and sounds that Romandeos had to offer him with the help from his royal tour guide. He would often tell Taunja how much he was enjoying his time in Romandeos and how he would visit more than once if he had the chance.

It was on the third day at a resort/ski lodge in the mountains, Taunja and Gregory sat with hot cocoa mugs in hand, looking out the lodge building’s huge front windows at the snow hanging on the mountains, some distance away from them. A huge fireplace roared softly in the background as the various thrill-seekers in the lodge enjoyed themselves drinking a lot of warm drinks and just trying to relax following a fun day up on the slopes.

“So, Gregory,” Taunja began, leaning back in her seat. Her hand seemed to slip when she moved, and brushed lightly against his. This and things like it had happened occasionally, in the past week, seemingly casual and very accidental. “How do you find Romandeos? It is, I hope, as enjoyable as you believed it would be?”

After taking sips from his hot cocoa, Gregory smiled. "I have enjoyed my visit to Romandeos since the first day that I arrived here and I must say that it is very enjoyable especially with such a beautiful tour guide like yourself accompanying me. Traveling in the company of the Empress of Romandeos is a pleasurable honor."

Gregory thought briefly about the hand brushing; knowing that it was becoming more common but he decided not to ask about it in the end.

Before the Ixanian prince could reply, Taunja noticed something behind him and laughed. Looking back at him, she gestured with her eyes.

“You seem to have attracted some…attention,” she remarked. Sure enough, several of the ladies in the large, well furnished sitting area were casting glances his way, and obviously liking what they saw.

Gregory smiled at the ladies. "It is nothing new to me; some women are quite fond of me and of other people I know. The Empress' brother, Alexander, is swarmed by women."

“Well,” said the Empress. “I can hardly blame them. You are quite handsome.” Then, she laughed again. “Especially when you're blushing!”

"I would hardly blame the men of Romandeos for admiring you, Taunja. I am sure you have had some admirers and perhaps a lover or two."

Hearing her guest speculate as to her past love life, Taunja hid a grin with her drink while inwardly coming to a decision. It was time.

“You know Gregory,” she said. “I’ve really enjoyed this week. It’s been the most fun I’ve had in years. Actually, because you have been such a fun guest, I’ve decided to thank you in turn. I’ve gone and got you a little gift. I’ll give it to you soon, but…”

Barely smothering a yawn, Taunja continued.

“For now, I find I am quite tired. You will not mind if I seek out a bed? Thank you. Don’t leave the main room on my account, please. I’ll see you in the morning.”

Having excused herself, the Empress stood up and left the main room. She headed quietly in the direction of the stairs leading to the private rooms. She threw Gregory a smile, then headed upward.

Upon reaching the private level, she moved right to her destination. The doors all seemed largely alike, but she found the one she wanted quickly.

It was the entrance to Gregory’s room.

Reaching in to a pocket on her jeans, Taunja pulled out a spare access card. Normally, the individual renting the room would be the only one with such a card apart from the lodge’s head superintendent, but there are advantages to being the Empress. She slid the card, and headed in to the well-appointed suite, closing the door as she entered.

“Thank God for uniform construction,” she said as she headed to the bedroom. She had to move fast. Gregory could show any second. She closed the bedroom door and then pulled her sweater off, tossing it to the carpet at the foot of the bed. Next came her shoes, placed in the same pile as the shirt. Then she removed her jeans, and within minutes the Empress had stripped down almost completely, leaving only her socks.

Her preparations completed, Taunja looked up as she heard footsteps. She only hoped the man approaching liked the 'present' he was about to recieve.

Hearing her guest speculate as to her past love life, Taunja hid a grin with her drink while inwardly coming to a decision. It was time.

“You know Gregory,” she said. “I’ve really enjoyed this week. It’s been the most fun I’ve had in years. Actually, because you have been such a fun guest, I’ve decided to thank you in turn. I’ve gone and got you a little gift. I’ll give it to you soon, but…”

"I am glad to have been such a fun guest; it has been a pleasure seeing Romandeos with you as you have made it more fun for me than I'd ever imagined that it would be. I must thank you for taking the time to be my tour guide."

Barely smothering a yawn, Taunja continued.

“For now, I find I am quite tired. You will not mind if I seek out a bed? Thank you. Don’t leave the main room on my account, please. I’ll see you in the morning.”

Gregory smiled. "Feel free to go to sleep, Taunja. I do not mind if you do."

Having excused herself, the Empress stood up and left the main room. She headed quietly in the direction of the stairs leading to the private rooms. She threw Gregory a smile, then headed upward.

Upon reaching the private level, she moved right to her destination. The doors all seemed largely alike, but she found the one she wanted quickly.

It was the entrance to Gregory’s room.

Reaching in to a pocket on her jeans, Taunja pulled out a spare access card. Normally, the individual renting the room would be the only one with such a card apart from the lodge’s head superintendent, but there are advantages to being the Empress. She slid the card, and headed in to the well-appointed suite, closing the door as she entered.

“Thank God for uniform construction,” she said as she headed to the bedroom. She had to move fast. Gregory could show any second. She closed the bedroom door and then pulled her sweater off, tossing it to the carpet at the foot of the bed. Next came her shoes, placed in the same pile as the shirt. Then she removed her jeans, and within minutes the Empress had stripped down almost completely, leaving only her socks.

Her preparations completed, Taunja looked up as she heard footsteps. She only hoped the man approaching liked the 'present' he was about to recieve.

As Gregory walked upstairs towards his room, he could only think about Taunja and how much he enjoyed being with her during his sight-seeing tour of Romandeos. Just thinking about her put a smile on his face. He decided that he'd rest in his room for the night before continuing his tour of Romandeos the next day. Taking out the card that Taunja had given him, Gregory opened the door and noticed a pile of clothes on the ground before his eyes were fixed upon the beautiful nymph that was laying seductively on his bed. He smiled slightly and was consumed in amazement but he seemed to be studying the nude body of Taunja and she could tell that he liked what he saw. With a grin on his face, he began to speak in a solemn tone. "This is an unexpected gift, Taunja, but I'll take it happily."

He walked towards the bed with his hands preparing to feel his gift....Taunja could tell what Gregory wanted and he assumed that she would know. "Taunja must be in love with me or she just wants a quickie....I'll take it regardless."

From that night forward, Taunja and Gregory became much closer. They would still have individual rooms when they went somewhere, but one room was usually left empty, when it came time to go to bed. Not that they did much sleeping nights. They continued touring like before around the country, and eventually, it came time for Gregory to leave, go back home to his nation. By this time, what had started out as a fling, based entirely on sex had largely morphed in to something more emotional, and Taunja was as upset to see Gregory leave as the Ixanian prince was to be leaving.

Little did they know as they were preparing to have one last day together, the results from Empress Taunja’s latest medical examination (such took place regularly) would provide a lovely reason for him to stick around for a bit.

It was the morning of his last, planned day, and they were back in the Palace Complex, in his appointed Guest House, just enjoying a quiet breakfast. They were both in a advanced level of undress, and so when somebody knocked on the front door, Taunja jolted with an irritated squeak and reached for the bathrobe on her seat.

“I’ll get it,” she said with a smile. She leaned down and planted a kiss on the Ixanian, and headed to the doorway tying the robe as she walked. She walked up to the LCD screen set in the wall next to the door, and pressed a button, which brought up an image of the porch in full crystal clarity. It was Lieutenant Klein, one of her IHG guard.

“Damn it, what does he want?” She opened the door, just enough to see him clearly.

“What is it, lieutenant?” she inquired. She was obviously irritated, but the young officer’s manner seemed unperturbed.

‘Probably that’s why he’s a Guardsman,’ she thought.

“My Lady,” he began. “We have some interesting results from your latest blood tests, and it was Colonel Leroy’s opinion that you might wish to see them.”

He held out a small folder, obviously holding just a few papers. She took it from him, and looked inside. She was silent for a moment, and then looked up.

“Fuck,” she said simply, then regained control “Thank you, lieutenant. That will be all.”

Lieutenant Marco Klein nodded sharply and left quickly. She had looked upset and he did not desire to be around if she exploded about something. He was curious as to what it was in that message that had caused her to look so…not well.

He stopped, standing on the stone pathway. Well, she had bee chumming around with the Ixanian for a long time now, and rumors had it they were close. Also, that report was sent in to Colonel Leroy’s office by her person physicians, so…

Klein shook his head. Best not to go there, he decided, and walked on.

******************************

Back in the Guest House, the Empress swallowed hard as she walked back to Gregory, an incredibly nervous expression playing on her face.

“Gregory?” she said softly. “We have a problem, Gregory.”

It had not been expected by Gregory that he would be sleeping with the Empress of Romandeos who, according to him, had good carnal talents from which he assumed she had done such things before but he did not regret sleeping with her because he had grown to love her and care for her. To him, she was not only an Empress but a lover who was firmly planted in the confines of his mind and heart. The sun rose one day to its place in the sky as Gregory groggily awoke after hearing Taunja move and speak; he held the blanket over his toned and muscular body while he watched before he planned to change into his regular clothes. After Klein left, Gregory smiled at Taunja while thinking about what the problem she mentioned could be. Was she pregnant? It was possible, he thought, but what would people think of him knocking up the Empress of Romandeos?

"What is the problem, Taunja? You can tell me."

Gregory smiled and rose from the bed to comfort her; restraining himself from asking if she was pregnant although a part of him did tell him that she was. If she was, however, Gregory would make sure he handled the event professionally and with care. He would not just abandon her....he would stick by her and help her.

IC:

For a moment, Taunja considered lying to Gregory, brushing it off, acting like it was nothing. She could just enjoy this one last day with him and then once it was done, get it terminated.

Right then, her more sensible compassionate side kicked in. She'd been raised in a very traditional, conservative home, and while her parents were dead the ideas they had passed on remained very much alive. Abortion was a horrible, wrong act, and keeping the man in the dark was also not right.

Her head dropped down, her shoulders slumped. She sighed deeply.

"Yeah," she said, answering the unspoken query. "I guess we should have been more careful, right?"

Her hands crumpled the medical report as she sat on the edge of the bed and looked out the window.

IC:

For a moment, Taunja considered lying to Gregory, brushing it off, acting like it was nothing. She could just enjoy this one last day with him and then once it was done, get it terminated.

Right then, her more sensible compassionate side kicked in. She'd been raised in a very traditional, conservative home, and while her parents were dead the ideas they had passed on remained very much alive. Abortion was wrong, and keeping the man in the dark was also not right.

Her head dropped down, her shoulders slumped. She sighed deeply.

"Yeah," she said. "I guess we should have been more careful, right?"

Her hands crumpled the medical report as she sat on the edge of the bed and looked out the window.

Gregory was silent for a moment as he contemplated the news that he had just recieved from Taunja. While some people he knew would simply ditch the girl and run off; not caring for the well being of the child whose existence they had contributed to, Gregory was not such a person. He was an honest and well raised man who would take responsibility for his actions. Walking calmly a bit, he sat next to Taunja and began to comfort her. "We were consumed by passion, Taunja; we did not expect this though we were both educated in the way such things work."

Gregory smiled. "I shall not run away from this; I shall stand by you. If you want this child....then I shall be there as its father....though I understand if you want me sent away or if that is the desire of the Imperial Court. All I want is to be honest with you....I am a person who shall not just knock up a girl and then run off into the distance and never seen again."

It started out as a low chuckle, even a giggle, but before long Taunja started laughing out loud.

"Th-the Imperial Court," she choked out. "Do what I tell them. As for an idiotic notion like sending you away..." she paused. "I will not lie. I considered it, but...not for very long. Maybe a couple seconds. I didn't want to keep you latched to me, all on my account, but if you want to stay..."

Her voice trailed off, and she suddenly leaned in to him. A though dawned on her in that moment. In all the time they had spent together, she had not said it to him, one little phrase.

"Gregory?" she said, looking up at him. "I...ah...I love you, Gregory."

For a moment, she just sat there, barely hearing his reply.

"Oh, crap!" she said, eyes going wide. "We still have to let Anastasia know!"

It started out as a low chuckle, even a giggle, but before long Taunja started laughing out loud.

"Th-the Imperial Court," she choked out. "Do what I tell them. As for an idiotic notion like sending you away..." she paused. "I will not lie. I considered it, but...not for very long. Maybe a couple seconds. I didn't want to keep you latched to me, all on my account, but if you want to stay..."

"Although I expected to leave in a day or so....these developments have made me firmly decided upon staying here with you in order to support you during these times. I knocked you up and it will be a disgrace to flee and not take full responsibility for it."

Her voice trailed off, and she suddenly leaned in to him. A though dawned on her in that moment. In all the time they had spent together, she had not said it to him, one little phrase.

"Gregory?" she said, looking up at him. "I...ah...I love you, Gregory."

"You love me, Taunja?.....really?"

For a moment, she just sat there, barely hearing his reply.

"Oh, crap!" she said, eyes going wide. "We still have to let Anastasia know!"

"I do not know what my cousin would think but I am sure she would be at least concerned and surprised. Shall we send word of this event to her?"

Laughing again, though a bit less jovially this time, Taunja lightly tapped the Ixanian prince's arm.

"I don't give myself to just anybody, Gregory," she said. "There was an inkling of something there from the start even if I didn't realize it at first, and it's only grown since then. It's how I've always done things, I guess. As for a report to Anastasia, she's related to you, so...could you handle that?"

Laughing again, though a bit less jovially this time, Taunja lightly tapped the Ixanian prince's arm.

"I don't give myself to just anybody, Gregory," she said. "There was an inkling of something there from the start even if I didn't realize it at first, and it's only grown since then. It's how I've always done things, I guess. As for a report to Anastasia, she's related to you, so...could you handle that?"

"I have grown to have feelings for you myself, Taunja.....though I am not really surprised that you may love me. No woman would just be nude on a bed with only her socks on...waiting for the man they do not love to take them on a ride through the streams of passion. As for Anastasia, I can handle sending her a report."

IC:

It seemed to be a good day to laugh as Taunja broke out in to giggles again.

"Well, not many women, anyway," she said. "Certainly, I would think, not any kind of woman you want to be with. As for Anastasia, well she may not enjoy hearing about this, but what can she do? Demand an abortion? Anyway she's not the kind, I think, to be too upset by news like this. Correct me, if I am so horribly wrong as to warrant it, but that was the impression that I got."

For a moment, Taunja just leaned in to Gregory, closing her eyes and heaving a sigh.

IC:

It seemed to be a good day to laugh as Taunja broke out in to giggles again.

"Well, not many women, anyway," she said. "Certainly, I would think, not any kind of woman you want to be with. As for Anastasia, well she may not enjoy hearing about this, but what can she do? Demand an abortion? Anyway she's not the kind, I think, to be too upset by news like this. Correct me, if I am so horribly wrong as to warrant it, but that was the impression that I got."

For a moment, Taunja just leaned in to Gregory, closing her eyes and heaving a sigh.

Gregory held Taunja close to him as he spoke to to her; his hand gently caressing the back of her head and her back. "I am sure that Anastasia will understand what has happened; I am doubtful that she will ask for an abortion.....but I must know if you, Taunja, want to keep this child.......Do you?"

IC:

It only took Taunja a few seconds to contemplate Gregory's question. It was not a hard choice. Not a choice at all, really. She looked at Gregory, and told him her decision in one sentence.

"You'd best go and send Anastasia that message, Gregory. We're going to be really busy soon."

OOC:

I'll have that other thread up before long, NI.

IC:

It only took Taunja a few seconds to contemplate Gregory's question. It was not a hard choice. Not a choice at all, really. She looked at Gregory, and told him her decision in one sentence.

"You'd best go and send Anastasia that message, Gregory. We're going to be really busy soon."

OOC:

I'll have that other thread up before long, NI.

OOC: No problem. Just send me a link when you have it up.

IC:

Gregory nodded his head before getting dressed. "I shall notify the Empress of what has happened and we will see what the future holds in store for us next."

After getting dressed, he briefly looked into Taunja's eyes (OOC: feel free to assume a kiss occured) before he walked out of the room to compose a report for his cousin.