8 Fiancées 2 (2/2)
”Is there a problem Nikolai?” the Baroness glared him into submission and he looked like a boy reprimanded for his mistakes, glancing at the Suzdal party and comprehending his blunder.
”No.” He replied sheepishly, glancing at Elya and offering a sad little grin in apology.
”Run along now Niki and show Elya around.” The Baroness ordered, and Nikolai's shoulders slumped a little, looking lost, but he stood up and Elya accompanied him, their escorts following them out.
Behind them planning for the wedding began. If the daughter of a Grand Duke was going to be married, it had to be a spectacular affair. While Elya herself only had a mild interest in the event, it actually seemed like a hassle to be honest, her aunt would ensure that the Suzdal's would not be lacking and she caught some of their discussions on dowry as she exited. Her father really valued this alliance it seemed, the initial figure was shocking, almost as much as the dowry prepared for her wedding to the fourth Prince.
Outside the parlour Nikolai glanced at her for a moment and Elya was sure he was just as confused as she was. They barely knew each other and were engaged, which was actually the norm for the nobility, but things had moved so fast this time, without a chance for them to even talk with each other. That had to be a first for an engaged couple.
”Why don't you take her into the town.” The soldier behind Nikolai offered. He'd followed them along with Alexis, ostensibly acting as bodyguards, but considering her and Nikolai's abilities, they'd serve as advisors. Or in Alexis' case, Elya had sternly instructed her to act as a buffer in case things became awkward.
”Would you like that Dame Suzdal?” Nikolai asked her. Her lips quivered, trying to hold in a smile when she saw him behaving so shy, unable to meet her gaze, the magical Count was nowhere in sight.
”Of course, Count Morales.” She retrieved her sword from Alexis and buckled it to her side, confidence coming once the familiar weapon was back at her side. She hadn't realised how lost she would feel without it in this environment.
”Umm… you can call me Nikolai.” He said, flinching a little at the sight of her armed.
”Then please call me Elya.” She smiled and saw him flush a little. It was such a contrast with the stories she had heard, this soft-spoken young man who was feared by an Empire. There was an awkward silence for a moment and she searched for a topic, but Nikolai seemed to realise something and slapped his head.
”Have you ever had volha-borscht?” He said suddenly, perking up and grinning at her, mischief sparkling in his eyes. She twitched a little as he grabbed her arm and pulled her into a brisk walk. The soldier stumbled after them exchanging shocked looks with Alexis who trotted to keep up, her stride too short to match their pace.
”What's borscht?” Elya asked as she was whisked into town.