75 Neva 1 (2/2)
”The Lord of Storms flies.” Nikolai flinched, instantly regretting his flippant remark. [Not the best way to endear myself to my father-in-law-to-be.]
”Or rides around in a weather controlled carriage with the finest interior money can buy.” Elya offered from the side, humour glittering in her eyes. Nikolai jumped at the soft chuckle coming from Duke Suzdal's lips. The man's expression remained the same even while he laughed. It was the first time Nikolai met anyone with such a stiff face and it was surprisingly terrifying.
”I'm certain Aunt Natalia lived there during your return home.”
Nikolai relaxed at the Duke's amused tone and nodded, his lips twisting at the memory. ”She wouldn't come out. We had to buy a cot and embed it in a wall with Magic so she could sleep inside. Once Alexis started running errands for her, she didn't even move from her seat.”
Elya glanced back at the convoy gathering at the waystation, probably trying to catch sight of her companion.
”I wouldn't expect to see Alexis anytime soon.” Nikolai rotated his arm, wincing at the popping sounds coming from his shoulder. ”A big, scary old woman came and dragged her off.”
”That would be her grandmother. She's been waiting eagerly for their reunion.”
Elya paled at her father's comment, nervously biting her lip at some memory. ”Poor Alexis.” She mumbled in a voice so faint Nikolai had to strain to catch the words.
”She'll be fine.” The Duke paused for a moment, scratching his face in thought. [So that's where Elya picked up the habit.] ”After some time. Rather than worry about her we should head into the city. Your grandfather's waiting.”
Nikolai plodded along with Jarek at his side, trying to ignore the boy's confused looks whenever he paused to readjust his pants. It felt like he'd been dragged along a gravel road. Luckily, It wasn't long before they were through the tunnel and Nikolai took a deep breath to savour the crisp wind as his eyes adjusted to the bright light.
Books couldn't do Neva justice.
Terraces were cut into the mountainside, almost rising to the summit. Towering gardens hung from a thousand buildings like twisting vines. Water cascaded down the mountain along pristine canals, streaming into a hundred artificial tributaries that poured into a colossal moat. A crystal palace dominated the mountain, the old governor's residence long since converted to House Suzdal's home, its vaulted arches and ancient reliefs visible even from this distance. The setting sun cast fiery reflections from the ancient metal columns framing the gate and Nikolai blinked rapidly at the stunning sight. Few cities could match the ancient prestige of Neva.
”I never get tired of seeing home.” The Duke remarked after a moment, gesturing at the gate. ”After you son.”
”Yes your grace.” Nikolai bowed, still stunned by the city.
”Don't call me 'your grace' son, it feels far too formal.”
[It must be a Suzdal quirk, wanting to do away with formalities. Even Natalia made me call her aunt from the beginning.] Nikolai grinned and stuck out his hand, maybe it wouldn't be too difficult to get along with his stone faced father-in-law. ”Sure, father.” He said.
”Now that's not formal enough.” Ignoring Nikolai's outstretched hand and slackening jaw, the Duke waved at the gate guards forming ranks for the Welcome as he walked away.
Maybe it would be difficult to get along with him.