Post

Russia major wrote:

-finally-

Eirik sat at his desk, still rather cross from the bitter cold of the Finnish tundra. He'd never liked it, but it had become something he'd grown used to. Still, he longed for the lovely warmth of the Althior summer, as opposed to the cold of Finland. He typed furiously on his computer, rambling about something to do with the Syndicalists, when a knock at the door came.

"What is it now?" Eirik groaned as he answered the door.

"A letter from Petrograd, Natalia's seal." The messenger handed the letter to Eirik.

"Been a long while, though it comes at such a time... this can't be good."

Eirik sat at his desk and opened the letter:

Dearest Uncle,
I pray to Rod that your Christ protects you in these harsh days. It is unfortunate that we find ourselves at the opposing ends of a conflict between our nations, and my heart aches because of this. Family should never come to blows. But, lest we reach a settlement, I fear that Czar Feodor will mobilize into Finland, and I abhor that reality. As such, I believe that it would be beneficial to meet and discuss this conflict. The Czar has made it known that he is willing to host both you and Premier Juul, to come to a peaceful resolution. However, if you do agree, I request that you arrive with the utmost haste, and that you remain amicable to the Premier.
With the blessings of Rod and the cry of Kjaer,
Your Niece, Natalia, and her wife Alexandra

Eirik looked puzzled for a moment. First she leaves the light of God, then marries a heathen, and now begs me to enter the pagan nation and grovel at the feet of that red bastard?

Later that evening, at dinner with Queen Margaret and the royal family, Eirik brought it up.

"So the heathen wishes you to meet their Czar?" Margaret asked, almost coldly.

"Yes, that's what I got from the letter. And don't call them heathens. They're extended members of the family. Even if they are he- unbelievers, they should still be afforded some respect." Eirik answered.

"Unbelievers or heretics, I won't be stepping foot there anytime soon." Margaret returned to her cut of meat.

"Mother is far too invested in the beliefs of other nations. I'd love to go and see the- I mean, accompany you on a diplomatic venture to try to mend the relations between us and the reds." Annelie, Eirik's daughter proposed.

"You're sure, dear?"

"Of course father. I'll behave, I promise! And besides, the last time we went on a diplomatic visit together was so long ago. You can't judge me on that."

"I suppose I can't. Margaret, I suppose that, since you'd rather remain here, you'll be in charge of the war effort. You know my generals and ministers, yes?"

"Eirik, you've asked me this fifty-six times. Yes, for the love of the saints, I know your generals and ministers. Now finish your dinner."