[ladenahq]

“I… I suppose there would be no harm in that. It would be quite unbecoming of you not to escort me,” Tatiana reasoned as she turned and began heading back to her family’s apartments. She was quiet for a moment before she glanced over at the gentleman again, eyebrows furrowing. “You look familiar — do you know the Baroness Zinaida?”

[ofstrvganov-blog]

“My thoughts exactly,” he concurred, falling into step a mere pace behind the Duchess. Upon being addressed, Nikodem lifted his gaze from the ground, brows rising momentarily. “Ah, yes. She’s my younger sister. One of them, at least. You’ve spoken to her?”

[elenatheduchess-blog]

“I recently finished reading the most marvellous book describing all types of exotic and wondrous beasts,” the Duchess informed with great glee, her eyes resting neatly on her lap. “I would quite like to have a hercinia as my pet. Supposedly they glow in the dark and light the paths of lost travellers.”

[ofstrvganov-blog]

Nikodem hummed in interest, head tipped just slightly to one side. “A -- hercinia? I rather think I’ll be sticking with horses, although such abilities would be greatly advantageous. Where were these beasts found?”

[roslin-thequeen]

“With others, perhaps you do. But even without saying a word, I know exactly what it is you are thinking. I always have been able to. Mother used to joke that you and I were secretly given the power of twins, like Chubak and Ugoda from the tales.”, she reminded him, nudging the man like only a little sister could. She’d always been lucky to have Nikodem by her side, and hoped he would ask to take her with him next time he decided to leave court. “I always did enjoy a good uproar. Perhaps I shall cause one again someday.”

From the cool confines of his arm, Katya shoved her brother for his mockery, sticking a tongue out at him childishly to show her disapproval. “I’ll have you know I made wonderful friends. Kind, caring, and very well placed. I’ve done you very proud.” She gestured to her gown in reference, “Did you not notice I am not longer in mourning blacks? I had gowns made. Well, altered.”

[ofstrvganov-blog]

“Is that so, Katya? You won’t mind my asking what it is you believe I’m thinking this very second, then, will you?” He laughed airily. “I do remember that being said once... or twice. But we were almost entirely inseparable growing up.” Another ‘offended’ huff fell from his lips, brows drawn into a creasing frown. “I’m well aware, and I hope you will. It would be a change from the politics and general lack of excitement around here, certainly.”

Nikodem rolled his eyes, lifting up a hand to tug at strands of his sister’s hair in playful response to her shove, his grip momentarily tightening around her as he steadied himself. “You are aware imaginary friends don’t count, yes? -- No matter how kind, caring and very well placed they may be.” Tilting his head slightly, the elder resisted the urge to roll his eyes once more. “Of course I did, and you look lovely. Who did they belong to originally?”

[dimitriofrussia]

Text Post Meme: For The Crown Edition (001)

@duchesstatiana @dimitriofrussia @alekseidashkov @ancstcsiia @gpirina @ofstrvganov @duchessalyudmila @the-tsarina-raisa @courtlykatya @ofpotemkin @galinademidov

[willparry]

#sleepingbeauty

[aida-stroganov]

“You certainly need to give us some warning next time,” She said, poking his chest light before grinning. “But what fun would that be, брат? I’ll keep my troubles away from your eyes and ears as long as possible.”

[ofstrvganov-blog]

He feigned shock, rocking backwards carefully as if her jab held enough force to topple him. “Consider it noted, Aida. I will write you an in-depth letter each time I leave my apartment.” Nikodem beamed. “I imagine no fun at all, but fun isn’t of any importance! Do you not know we are supposed to lead entirely miserable existences? You are so young and so naive.”

[ladenahq]

“You might be right — though I think we might be the only two who have chosen walking as a means for exhaustion. I’ve tried tonics but… they keep drowsy throughout the day and it’s hardly worth it,” she mused, suddenly wishing she was wearing a cloak over her sleeping gown for modesty’s sake. “If you do not mind me going back to my apartment for my cloak, I can join you? Otherwise, it will be time for us to part ways, my lord.”

[ofstrvganov-blog]

“We certainly seem to be the only two. I’ll admit I have not given tonics a trial; for that exact reason. I prefer to be have my inhibitions fully intact during the day, regardless of what the activities for the day are.” Unless of course alcohol was involved. Inhibitions be damned if liquor became part of the equation. He glanced up, offering a warm smile. “I do not mind at all, would you prefer me to wait here or walk with you?”

[louiseoflorraine-blog]

“No trouble at all. That is you did say something.” Her voice was calm and seductive, yet surprised she was proceeding with her flirtatious way. After she spoke, the Sultan continue to swaying her hips and moved them in circular motions with the rhyme of the song, her hands curling in the art of her belly dance.  The one thing Despina enjoyed most was that she stood out most in many royal ladies in court. Not a single woman was able to be so exotic as she can.

[ofstrvganov-blog]

For a moment ( a moment that lasted far too long, when he became aware of it ) Nikodem found himself completely entranced by the smooth movements made by the Sultana before him. He cleared his throat, dark gaze fixating elsewhere for several beats before the Baron even dared to look back at her. Once more, his glass was emptied in a swift gulp. “If I were to be entirely honest with you, Your Highness. I would say I find that very difficult to believe; it seems to me that almost everyone around here seeks nothing but trouble. Perhaps it is just the men.” It wasn’t. He was sure of that.

[roslin-thequeen]

“A compliment to myself and an insult to you, naturally. You are a rather unsurprising man, but perhaps only to me.”, she clarified, enjoying the comfort of her brother’s affection. She was still rather wary around most men, but Nikodem’s presence put her right at ease. “You should have taken me with you, I miss the farm and don’t mind the work. I’d especially savor the idea of returning to his court still covered in dirt and sweat. Imagine the uproar.” 

She smirked, nodding her head in agreement, “The palace is a very boring place without you but I may have found a few amusements to keep myself occupied. I actually made a few friends.”

[ofstrvganov-blog]

The Baron heaved an exaggerated sigh, shoulders slumping. “Naturally. How predictable; I, of course, should have known that would be your answer.” He arched a brow, lifting his free hand to clutch his chest. “Me? Unsurprising? May I ask what makes you say that? I happen to think I play my cards close to my chest.” Shaking his head as if in utter disbelief, the older drew Katya closer to his side, for a moment resting his chin atop her head. “I know you do, next time I will be certain to at least invite you.” Nikodem laughed earnestly. “It would be a mighty uproar! A glorious thing to witness.”

“Friends?” His eyes narrowed, dark brows knitting together into a ( mock ) skeptical frown. “I find it difficult to believe you could make friends, I’ve never found you particularly pleasant to be around. Perhaps it is a miracle. -- Mocking aside, I’m very glad to hear you’ve made friends, Katya.”

[louiseoflorraine-blog]

“Perhaps you should try it. You would be learning from the best.” Despina answered playfully.She then placed her hands on her hips while she listened to him. “Persia is a beautiful place. Different food, lifestyle, and customs. Would be much different than Russia. But Russia is a place I adore truly.” The Sultana smiled before she continues on dancing. “Do you like to watch me, sir?”

[ofstrvganov-blog]

“I don’t dispute that, but I think it would be best if I were to avoid trying such a thing.” Nikodem smiled regardless, the empty drink in hand replaced by a newly refilled goblet. A murmur of thanks left his lips in the direction of the servant before his gaze returned to the Sultana. Another smile formed, though the Baron did well to hide the expression behind his drink. “More so than Persia, Your Highness?” Placing the goblet aside, he crossed his arms and tipped his head to one side. The Stroganov exhaled softly. “I believe that to be a trick question -- anyone who would say they don’t enjoy watching you would be a liar. But if I were to say I did, I may bring unwanted trouble.”

[aida-stroganov]

“No, she didn’t mention anything, just that she wanted to know if I’d seen you at all. Of course, at the time I hadn’t known you’d arrived at court yet. I’ll certainly have to come up and stock wonderful excuses, then, just in case I do do wrong.”

[ofstrvganov-blog]

“Ah, well I’ll likely find out very soon if there was anything in particular. -- No, no, of course not. I’ll be sure to give you a written warning next time; so you know when I’ll be returning, at least. Hmm. I have a better idea; don’t do any wrong! Surely it can’t be too difficult a feat?”

[awbuckyno]

[aida-stroganov]

“Thank you, Nik, it means a lot. You should find her, I remember her asking about you when I saw her last. You may be able to find her in the gardens? That is what I like to hear. I’d hate to become shameful.”

[ofstrvganov-blog]

“Oh? I’ll be sure to do just that; did she mention why she was asking for me? I will bear that in mind, thank you. You could never be shameful, I’m certain that anything you could do in such a negative light, you would have a perfectly good reason for. You’re my little сестра, you can do no wrong. At least, not that I won’t be willing to forgive.”

[roslin-thequeen]

“I am not often surprised, Nik, and very rarely surprised by you.”, she answered him, looking up at her big brother and feeling just a little bit safer as they walked about the halls. It was Nikodem that had helped her transition back into court life after her husband’s death, and Nikodem that had been beside her for the entire ordeal, just as he was now. “What has kept you away? I’ve missed you here, as I’m sure Zinaida has too.”

[ofstrvganov-blog]

“I confess, I’m not sure whether you mean that as a compliment or as an insult. By default, I’ll assume the former.” He returned Katya’s gaze, leaning down in order to press a soft kiss to her forehead. “Nothing of any importance, that I can promise you. I spent some time with old friends, consumed my fair share of wine and such like and worked the farm when the need arose.” A warm smile softened his features. “And I the both of you, naturally. What have you been occupying yourself with here in my absence? I imagine entertainment is in short supply when I am absent.”

[ladenahq]

“I apologize for my scandalous mode of undress — I did not think anyone would be awake at this hour. Walking helps me sleep.”

[ofstrvganov-blog]

“No apology is necessary, I assure you. You have my apologies for intruding, I was in a similar frame of mind -- apparently a near inability to fall asleep is much more common than I first thought.”

[tchliarcmirez-deactivated201811]

“That is good to hear. —- Apparently my mother used to do this as well when my father was having trouble sleeping. I guess I got that from her.” Liliya could help but smile as she listened to the baron’s words. She tilted her head as she liked at him. “No, why would I? I do not see a reason for you being annoying, my lord.” A small chuckle as Liliya agreed to his words. “I agree, it can be dull, sometimes it is just nice seeing a different face and hearing a different voice.” Not that she ever had problems with that, she loved talking to her friends but sometimes talking to someone else was just something she needed. In this case she was speaking to a Baron. “Of course, if you wish too. It will be a rather short walk though.”

[ofstrvganov-blog]

“It’s certainly very useful knowledge to hand down from parent to child.” He agreed, hands linking behind his back as he listened. “Because I see no reason to annoy you -- there are, however, many courtiers that I do enjoy being a source of exasperation for, I’m happy to admit as much.” The Baron nodded slowly, removing a hand from behind his back to card through dark curls that had fallen into his face just moments previous. “New faces are always a welcome thing; though I can’t speak on the behalf of the older, more traditional noble families around Kaborg who seem to disagree entirely.” Nikodem had little time for those unwilling to see past such a simple thing, despite how much they angered him. “I rather prefer short walks; presently brief strolls are far more manageable than others. -- Lead the way, Miss.”

[roslin-thequeen]

Katya’s lips pressed into a tight line, concealing the laugh caged behind her teeth as her elder brother stepped in to kindly tell the courtier exactly where to send his regards. Her grin appeared only after the wretched man had gone and Nikodem was smiling down at her. 

“Thank you, sir.”, she parroted, her tone mischievous. “You have quite the way with words for a soldier’s son.” 

[ofstrvganov-blog]

Unable to help himself, Nikodem turned to watch the courtier sulk away, lifting a hand to administer a sardonic wave and grin. His expression softened when they were once more out of earshot, a hand resting lightly atop his sister’s. 

“Consider it my pleasure,” the elder drawled in reply, allowing his smile to soften. “You almost sound surprised, Katya. I will have you know I’m the quickest of learners.”