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Post by Lucan de Rousseau on Jan 23, 2011 23:18:05 GMT -5
The air was unnaturally chilly as we rose on the day of our arrival in Ruskovia, even though it was springtime. I made sure to dress Laurel in furs, though he complained of being hot. "Wear it for now," I said, "it will be cold on the deck."
The sun was just finished rising when we went up on the deck. I looked for Lessandrie, who I was sure was brimming with anticipation.
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Lessandrie de Mereliot-Romanov
Noble (Staff)
Sovereign Duchesse of Eisande, Lady of Marsilikos *Voted Member of Best Storyline 2010*
Wife of Fydor Romanov
Posts: 2,623
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Post by Lessandrie de Mereliot-Romanov on Jan 23, 2011 23:33:19 GMT -5
I'd risen unconsciounably early in sheer anxiety, wanting everything to be perfect for my arrival. The supplies on a ship were always limited but I managed to get enough water to take a small bath and washed all of the sea-spray from my skin and hair, then brushed my red locks shiny and untangled but still hanging in the abundant curls I knew Fydor liked, held back only with the snow-scene barrette he'd gifted to me. My gown was turquoise blue with bronze at the collars, hem and neck, and cut modestly enough to fit Ruskovian style. I hoped it would be enough.
The food wasn't too terrible but I only managed to get a couple bites down, then went onto the deck and stood by the prow where I could see the Ruskovian shoreline coming closer and closer. Was Fydor there, just as he said? I couldn't believe he would be otherwise, for I trusted him implicitly, and the sight of his face was all I could think of for a time.
The sound of Laurel's rushing footsteps behind me caught my attention and I gave him a smile, then cast a glance to my father before I looked back at the shoreline again. "Look, there it is," I told them as I pointed at the edge of the land, a wide smile on my face and my eyes likely blue with pure joy. "We're almost there."
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Post by Lucan de Rousseau on Jan 23, 2011 23:37:39 GMT -5
"Yes, I know," I said. "And you look lovely. I am sure you will cut a very impressionable figure."
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Lessandrie de Mereliot-Romanov
Noble (Staff)
Sovereign Duchesse of Eisande, Lady of Marsilikos *Voted Member of Best Storyline 2010*
Wife of Fydor Romanov
Posts: 2,623
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Post by Lessandrie de Mereliot-Romanov on Jan 23, 2011 23:46:15 GMT -5
A light flush rose to my cheeks and I looked toward the water for a moment. It was colder than I'd realized and I unconsciously rubbed my arms in the breeze that kept the sails filled. "Thank you," I told him quietly but with complete sincerity when I finally looked back at him, having the childish urge to spin and and ask him, Do you really think so, Papa? Will he like it? But I knew everything he said was real and sincere, and I was at an age where I needed to build my own confidence, not lean on his, as much as I would have liked to. "We should be there soon. Laurel, are you warm enough?" All of my anxiousness focused on that question since there was nothing else for me to worry over and I looked around for where he might be hiding.
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Post by Lucan de Rousseau on Jan 23, 2011 23:52:53 GMT -5
Laurel darted to Louie's side. "I'm too hot!" he complained. "Papa made me wear this fur."
"You'll thank me later when you're not frozen," I told him sternly, before giving Louie a wink only she would see. "I think your sister might need a fur too."
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Lessandrie de Mereliot-Romanov
Noble (Staff)
Sovereign Duchesse of Eisande, Lady of Marsilikos *Voted Member of Best Storyline 2010*
Wife of Fydor Romanov
Posts: 2,623
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Post by Lessandrie de Mereliot-Romanov on Jan 24, 2011 0:01:01 GMT -5
I managed to hide a smile as I petted Laurel's hair. "Papa's right, you'll need it. When the wind picks up it gets very cold. Look at me, I forgot mine and I'm going to turn into an icicle." With a wider smile I looked at Papa, willing myself to be a little more calm for Laurel's sake because he'd likely get upset if he saw me so nervous. "I'm going to hug you to stay warm," I told Laurel again in a playful tone, wrapping my arms around him. "Soon you'll be back on dry land and can run around- after we do all of the meeting people, I promise."
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Fydor Romanov
Royal
His Highness, Prince of Ruskovia, House Romanov *Voted Member of Best Storyline 2010*
Husband to Lessandrie de Mereliot; youngest child of Nikolai and Ivana Romanov
Posts: 1,170
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Post by Fydor Romanov on Jan 25, 2011 22:20:00 GMT -5
A runner had informed me that a ship flying D'Angeline colours had been spotted coming to shore. I sent him off to tell Olga, and nearly flew down to the docks. It didn't matter that she was probably hours away still, I had promised to be waiting for her there, and frankly, there was nowhere I'd rather have spent my time. Time passed agonizingly slowly, but eventually I was able to see the ship. And then when it drew closer still, I thought I saw that blaze of red hair. Oh please let it be her...
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Post by Lucan de Rousseau on Jan 26, 2011 0:48:34 GMT -5
As we neared the docks, I could see but one man waiting there, a faint figure in the distance. "Is that him?" I asked.
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Lessandrie de Mereliot-Romanov
Noble (Staff)
Sovereign Duchesse of Eisande, Lady of Marsilikos *Voted Member of Best Storyline 2010*
Wife of Fydor Romanov
Posts: 2,623
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Post by Lessandrie de Mereliot-Romanov on Jan 26, 2011 8:29:44 GMT -5
I already had my arms wrapped around Laurel in an affectionate hug that he was playfully trying to escape from when my father's words caught my attention and I looked back at the docks. There was a faint figure standing there and I tried to focus on it more. My heart was telling me that it was him, meeting me like he'd said, but my mind knew that it was possible something could have changed and that I couldn't tell at this distance. I was d'Angeline though, and I trusted my heart more than my senses. "Yes," I said quietly, my eyes not leaving that person. If I was wrong then I was a fool, but I'd take the chance.
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Fydor Romanov
Royal
His Highness, Prince of Ruskovia, House Romanov *Voted Member of Best Storyline 2010*
Husband to Lessandrie de Mereliot; youngest child of Nikolai and Ivana Romanov
Posts: 1,170
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Post by Fydor Romanov on Jan 26, 2011 22:13:27 GMT -5
As the ship came nearer and nearer, the spot of red didn't disappear. Even when I let myself blink. It was her, Laima, it was really her. As soon as the boarding plank was lowered, I was up it. I caught her up in my arms with a laugh, lifting her up and spinning her round before my lips found hers for a kiss. I didn't care how proper or not it might have been, I was too caught up in the moment. Slowly our kiss came to an end, and I lowered her to the deck once more. "Hello love," I whispered with a smile that split my face.
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Lessandrie de Mereliot-Romanov
Noble (Staff)
Sovereign Duchesse of Eisande, Lady of Marsilikos *Voted Member of Best Storyline 2010*
Wife of Fydor Romanov
Posts: 2,623
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Post by Lessandrie de Mereliot-Romanov on Jan 26, 2011 22:27:37 GMT -5
Every moment the ship moved closer to the dock and I could recognize more and more of Fydor's familiar features and my heart nearly burst with happiness. I'd been a little worried that it would have to be some formal occasion, in which case I had to observe all of the etiquette I'd been learning, but it was just him, waiting for me as he'd promised, and I was exceedingly grateful. The things I was feeling weren't likely to make it easy to follow the very subtle rules of the culture.
As soon as he started up the plank I was walking toward him and met him halfway, smiling widely and wrapping my arms lightly around his neck as he spun me around and laughing in pure joy before his lips pressed to mine and I returned his kiss. My heart was full and I held his gaze as the kiss parted and my hand went to stroke his face gently for a moment. Soon we would probably be in much different surroundings and unable to do such things so I reveled in it for now. "Hello my Fydor," I whispered in reply. "I'm so happy to see you. I missed you."
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Fydor Romanov
Royal
His Highness, Prince of Ruskovia, House Romanov *Voted Member of Best Storyline 2010*
Husband to Lessandrie de Mereliot; youngest child of Nikolai and Ivana Romanov
Posts: 1,170
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Post by Fydor Romanov on Jan 26, 2011 22:46:34 GMT -5
"I missed you too, so very much," I told her, smiling still as I stole another quick kiss. How I wanted it to be longer, but I knew that there were people to meet. I kept her in my arms for now though, and glanced to see an older man with Lessa's red hair, and a six year old dressed in furs.
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Lessandrie de Mereliot-Romanov
Noble (Staff)
Sovereign Duchesse of Eisande, Lady of Marsilikos *Voted Member of Best Storyline 2010*
Wife of Fydor Romanov
Posts: 2,623
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Post by Lessandrie de Mereliot-Romanov on Jan 26, 2011 22:57:06 GMT -5
There was an easy sort of peace between my love and I- and our reunion may have been a short one as far as private reunions went, but it was sweet. I smiled as I returned his kiss, then held him close for a moment before I stepped back slightly and took his hand, then glanced at my father and Laurel with another warm smile before I looked back at my love. Some people would have been apprehensive at this point, I knew that, but my father and brother loved me and they'd love whoever made me happy. "Come meet my family," I said with a light flush, my tone soft but inviting. "They've heard a lot about you."
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Fydor Romanov
Royal
His Highness, Prince of Ruskovia, House Romanov *Voted Member of Best Storyline 2010*
Husband to Lessandrie de Mereliot; youngest child of Nikolai and Ivana Romanov
Posts: 1,170
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Post by Fydor Romanov on Jan 28, 2011 19:04:10 GMT -5
"It's very good to meet you sir," I said with a smile, holding out my hand to her father first. "And you as well sir," I continued when Lucan had shaken my hand, holding it then out to Laurel. I knew that even a young boy enjoyed being treated as an adult. "I'm been looking forward to meeting both of you. Lessa's told me a lot about you as well."
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Post by Lucan de Rousseau on Jan 29, 2011 16:53:54 GMT -5
I watched the reunion of my daughter with her love with an affectionate smile. They did love each other, that much was clear. When he came to introduce himself, I got a look at him. He was handsome for a non-d'Angeline, and well spoken. "Very nice to meet you as well, Fydor," I said. "My daughter speaks quite highly of you."
"Yeah," piped up Laurel. "She said you're the best. You better be, or I'll...I'll..." he looked at me. "What'll I do, Papa?"
"You'll defend your sister's honor, my boy," I said, giving a wink and a nod to the couple. "I have a very valiant son as well as a bright and beautiful daughter."
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Fydor Romanov
Royal
His Highness, Prince of Ruskovia, House Romanov *Voted Member of Best Storyline 2010*
Husband to Lessandrie de Mereliot; youngest child of Nikolai and Ivana Romanov
Posts: 1,170
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Post by Fydor Romanov on Jan 29, 2011 17:45:53 GMT -5
Laurel's reply made me grin. "I'll take care of her, I promise," I told the little guy sincerely. I looked to Lessa then, and kissed her cheek. I couldn't help myself, I hadn't seen her in far too long. "Now that introductions have been made, may I accompany you up to the palace? We have our best rooms made up for you. I'm sure you'd all like solid ground beneath you."
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Post by Lucan de Rousseau on Jan 29, 2011 17:48:10 GMT -5
"I like the boat," said Laurel.
"Ah, but you also like trees," I said. "I'm sure that this country has lots of good ones to climb." I looked to Fydor. "Thank you for your hospitality. We look forward to meeting your family."
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Lessandrie de Mereliot-Romanov
Noble (Staff)
Sovereign Duchesse of Eisande, Lady of Marsilikos *Voted Member of Best Storyline 2010*
Wife of Fydor Romanov
Posts: 2,623
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Post by Lessandrie de Mereliot-Romanov on Jan 29, 2011 17:58:45 GMT -5
Laurel had always been a far more outspoken child than I was, but nevertheless the interaction made me smile and I flushed a bit under Fydor's kiss and smiled happily. Everyone was getting along well for a first meeting, but of course there were always things to be taken care of. "I need to go down and get something, but I'll be right back," I replied quietly, then slipped away from the group and toward the entrance below deck. I'd brought a gift for Fydor as well and now seemed like the best place to give it to him, before all of the official meetings started.
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Fydor Romanov
Royal
His Highness, Prince of Ruskovia, House Romanov *Voted Member of Best Storyline 2010*
Husband to Lessandrie de Mereliot; youngest child of Nikolai and Ivana Romanov
Posts: 1,170
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Post by Fydor Romanov on Jan 29, 2011 18:59:19 GMT -5
Lessa left to fetch something below deck, and when her hand left mine, I wanted to snatch it back up and never let go. I scolded myself for thinking so possessively, and hoped she would be quick.
"My father is looking forward to meeting you, as well as the rest of my family. Though I feel as if I should warn you, he can be quite a tough negotiator," I told Lucan, wanting to warn him. Most D'Angelines had no idea what they were getting into when they dealt with Father. "But he always wants what's best for his family."
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Post by Lucan de Rousseau on Jan 29, 2011 19:05:31 GMT -5
"Then he and I are of the same mind," I said with a cordial smile. "I too want what is best for my family." I had heard rumors that the Tsar was a harsh man, but here was my confirmation. I too could be made of metal when I wanted to be.
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Lessandrie de Mereliot-Romanov
Noble (Staff)
Sovereign Duchesse of Eisande, Lady of Marsilikos *Voted Member of Best Storyline 2010*
Wife of Fydor Romanov
Posts: 2,623
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Post by Lessandrie de Mereliot-Romanov on Jan 29, 2011 19:13:26 GMT -5
It wasn't far back to my own cabin where I picked up a package wrapped in brown paper, something I'd brought with me from the City- a finely crafted dagger that had caught my eye. I didn't know what he'd think of it, but it was something that was suitable enough not to cause problems and still showed some taste and expense. Smiling to myself I stepped back up onto the deck and went back over to Fydor and my family, offering him the package. "I got this for you, I hope you like it."
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Fydor Romanov
Royal
His Highness, Prince of Ruskovia, House Romanov *Voted Member of Best Storyline 2010*
Husband to Lessandrie de Mereliot; youngest child of Nikolai and Ivana Romanov
Posts: 1,170
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Post by Fydor Romanov on Jan 29, 2011 19:29:36 GMT -5
It was as much as I could say, and I hoped that it was enough so that Lucan didn't underestimate my father. "That's good to hear sir," I said with a slight smile before Lessa returned.
I took the package, and began to unwrap it carefully. "Thank you solnshyshko," I murmured with a wide smile as I uncovered the beautifully crafted dagger. I unsheathed it slightly, and then further when I saw the words etched in the metal. The message made my heart swell with my love for her "It is wonderful Lessa."
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Lessandrie de Mereliot-Romanov
Noble (Staff)
Sovereign Duchesse of Eisande, Lady of Marsilikos *Voted Member of Best Storyline 2010*
Wife of Fydor Romanov
Posts: 2,623
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Post by Lessandrie de Mereliot-Romanov on Jan 29, 2011 21:23:24 GMT -5
"I'm glad you like it," I said with a light flush, then looked over at my father and brother with a smile. "Are we ready to go then?" Was I forgetting anything? My mind was spinning with excitement and a little bit of anxiety and my heart was full, and it all left me a little turned about in terms of my usually completely composed mental state.
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Post by Lucan de Rousseau on Jan 30, 2011 22:45:56 GMT -5
"Our men will follow us with our trunks," I said. "I think we are ready to go."
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Fydor Romanov
Royal
His Highness, Prince of Ruskovia, House Romanov *Voted Member of Best Storyline 2010*
Husband to Lessandrie de Mereliot; youngest child of Nikolai and Ivana Romanov
Posts: 1,170
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Post by Fydor Romanov on Jan 31, 2011 0:00:47 GMT -5
"Of course sir," I said with a smile before beginning to lead them from the deck. I offered my hand to Lessa as she descended to the dock and then ascended into the open carriage, not to steady her for she seemed stable, but as an excuse to touch her. I was also beaming, for I hadn't missed the look on my countrymen's faces. They had seen d'Angelines before, but Lessa was particularly beautiful, and it caused a stir as we headed up to the palace.
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Lessandrie de Mereliot-Romanov
Noble (Staff)
Sovereign Duchesse of Eisande, Lady of Marsilikos *Voted Member of Best Storyline 2010*
Wife of Fydor Romanov
Posts: 2,623
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Post by Lessandrie de Mereliot-Romanov on Jan 31, 2011 13:32:20 GMT -5
Even as the Lady of Marsilikos I was only used to being the center of attention so much, and it always made me feel a little self-conscious, but now I didn't seem to mind it as much. Fydor was near me and while the only touch was between our hands I could still see the happiness that showed in him, and return it with my own smile as the trip to the Palace continued. What lay ahead would be harder than what I'd just done, but I'd be able to do it. At the end I'd be married to my love and returning home, and for that I could endure anything.
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