#/ liesel ivanov / drabble
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Drabble: The People's Leningard
Oktyabrsky terminal, newly renamed last year, looked just like its Moscow counterpart. She almost wondered if she had imagined the train ride because it seemed like she was back to the beginning of her journey, but the difference being that the pace here was different. Bustling though it was it felt changed somehow.
In all honesty she wasn't sure how she felt about so much change as of late. Her brother had accepted a position here in fair Leningrad which meant either being left behind in a city that wasn't her own or following him here to start a new way of life here. It wasn't much of a choice really. He had been so kind to her since finding one another or rather him finding her in a hunt for his father. He was just a month too late as it were.
And yet there she was- his last link to family and he was hers.
He invited her to live with him in Moscow while she recovered from her grief- he made enough to provide for them both with his position. A former general in the Red Army now serving as an officer with Moscow policing regiment. They were happy there. She, in her free time, had made friends with their roommates, an older couple, and worked on penning stories and poetry. Some of it made it to newspapers and were published recently, but...she knew with the move to Leningrad she'd need to put it aside and focus on creating her own life now. Her brother, Stefan, had secured her a job amongst the typewriter girls within his office and told her that with his move and promotion that they'd have the luxury of having their own small quarters. Privacy. He had gone ahead of her to settle in while packed the last of her things and settled what small affairs and friendships she had made.
So now she stood in the vaulted hall of the Leningrad station trying to find a way out and then figure out how to navigate the city. Her brother had sent word for her to meet him outside the office building, but getting there was another challenge. Fingers readjusted their grip on the suitcase and the fabric travel bag in each hand as the weight began to take its toll. She needed to get moving before the bags became unbearable and so she turned to go towards the ticket counter hoping to find someone to direct her-
Somehow she didn't see the figure as she turned about with her bags and the letter from her brother clutched loosely in her hand. The slam threw her off balance and dropped the bags in surprise as she stumbled to regain her self as the letter began float with the wind and soar away from her.
A voice sounded near her in a panic. "I'm sorry- are you alright?"
"No-! My letter!" The gasp followed at seeing it get farther away from her when the olive dressed figure that apologized now darted away and after her only means of finding her way. Thankfully the wind dissipated soon and the letter began to flutter down to man's expectant hands that snatched the paper from its descent. She stared at the broad cut shoulders that held her brother's letter and she began to recognize the coat. He was an officer. She knew that color at first glance, but suspicions were confirmed as he turned around to her and the full view of his uniform was revealed. The overcoat was sharp pressed, tailored well to his built stature as the standard military uniform peeked at the collar just like her brother's.
Dark eyes scanned the hall briefly before finding hers it was then her heart thumped and- he smiled. "Again, I'm so sorry, miss. I didn't see you there." He said with a chuckle as he strode across the floor, his boots muffled in the chaos the coming and going passengers from the trains. The writer couldn't find the words for a moment as she looked up at the handsome figure approaching with a smile and near bashful look. Eyelashes fluttered as she raced to find words and stammered out. "Its quite alright. I should have been more careful."
"Well...here we are." Gloved hand extended the letter to her as he came to a neat stop and she reached to take it back.
She managed the words breathlessly. "I- um...Thank you, comrade." The officer nodded then turned to walk away when she glanced at the letter and the idea dawned on her. Frantically forest colored eyes lifted to search for the tall figure and call out again taking a step before hesitating then reaching for her bags again. "Um, comrade? Sir? Wait-! Do you have a moment?"
The officer stopped, startled by the call for him that wasn't colored with insults, and turned back to her as she scrambled to get her things then hurry to catch up to him.
His hands moved to rest in his coat pockets. "Is there a problem, comrade?"
"Not exactly." She said with a slight laugh as a train nearby whistled. "Do you know where the Leningrad Militia Criminal Investigation Division office is?"
"I do." A dark brow arched at her question. "Which one?"
"Ahm-" She fumbled again for the paper, eyes skimming through the words before finding the telling hint. "The one located on the Nevsky Prospekt?"
Again he smiled and her heart skipped a beat as lungs struggled to remember its basic purpose. "That's the division I'm based in. Its close by- I'm heading there myself right now, if you'd like to come with me?"
"Thank you-! I was so worried I would be entirely lost. Its my first time in Leningrad." She sighed in relief as she shifted her grip on the bags while he seemed to brighten a bit more at the idea of having company.
"Here-" He stepped closer and gently took the bags from her hands "-that looks heavy allow me. I'm General Gleb Vaganov, by the way."
"Liesel." She winced as the bags settled in his hands and she began to apologize profusely. "I'm so sorry about the weight- I brought quite a few books."
A slightly puzzled though amused look danced across handsome features before he lightly bounced the weight of the bags in his hands as though it were nothing then shook his head as they walked out of the train station and began on their way down the street. "I hadn't noticed." He chuckled warmly before brow furrowed softly in thought as people on the street quickly shifted out of his path warily. "Liesel...that's a very-"
Immediately she cut in as her chest tightened in fear. She was well aware of the sentiments of the populace for that particular country and even more so after the Great War. "German name? I-I know- its just that my mother was German, but my father is from Odessa and they fell in love. He brought her home and she fell in love with Russia as well and they made their life here. I'm very grateful to be here."
It took every ounce of bravery through the pounding in her head to dare to glance at him as she worried he'd find something wrong about her, some reason to change the kind, warm attitude he had shown her thus far. Thankfully when she looked she saw still that same warmth as he smiled empathetically and kindly spoke again. "I was going to say its a lovely name."
"Oh." She flushed looking away. "Thank you. I'm sorry I just thought-"
"No, no." He laughed shaking his head. "You have every right to be concerned. I can't fault you for that, comrade. Not everyone's wounds have healed over yet. Some may never recover, but we all must bear our burdens and our pasts and move towards a better fairer future."
"Exactly, I couldn't agree more." The weight off her chest now as they walked along the sidewalk as people hurried along and the tram rolled past with two dozen people crammed within trying to make their way across the city. It was only a handful of moments in quiet companionable silence till they stood outside their destination.
"So what exactly brings you here? This isn't exactly a typical meeting place for people new to Leningrad." He asked as she noticed that he hadn't set her bags down yet though they stood at the steps to the building.
"I'm meeting my brother here actually." Was the reply as she glanced around searching the passing people. "He's an officer as well, I'd have asked you if you knew him, but I thought he said he worked in a different division. I assume he asked me to meet him here since its the main headquarters."
"I see-" Gleb remarked with a thick swallow before shifting closer ever so slightly. "Well comrade, if you need a friend who knows the city I'd be glad to-"
"Stefan-!" He didn't continue his offer as the very familiar figure stepped through the doorway behind them and the sandy blond hair of his newest coworker shone in the sunlight. Stefan Ivanov was a formidable officer in his own right through his achievements, nonetheless his stature as he cut through the distance from door to the two standing outside.
"You're here. I hope there wasn't any trouble, Eliska" Stefan said as Gleb's eyes narrowed momentarily then softened as he looked to the petite woman beside him. It was then that he clicked. He had overheard the new officer request for accommodation for two and had quietly mentioned to few who asked that his sister would be arriving from Moscow this week. However, it was always 'my sister' or the rare glimpsing 'eliska'. It only took another moment to realize that both Eliska and Liesel were equal nicknames for Elisabeth.
"Comrade Ivanov, I hadn't realized this was the sister you mentioned. I should have figured." A bemused laugh was managed as Gleb, still holding the luggage, looked between the two.
Liesel now caught between both men smiled shyly then managed out. "Comrade Vaganov walked me from the station, Stefan. I might have been wandering the city lost if it weren't for him. I'm very grateful."
"It was nothing at all." Gleb interjected looking to the brunette still smiling at him. "I'm glad to be the first friendly face to welcome you to Leningrad."
He could've sworn he saw a rose colored flush across her cheeks as she answered in return. "I'm glad as well."
"Thank you, General Vaganov. I believe I'll take it from here. I've already notified Gorlinsky that I'll be out for a few hours to get my sister settled. I'll return after lunch. Eliska come along." The cold clipped tone of the elder Ivanov cut in immediately after the exchange as he stepped forwards and reached to take the bags from him then move towards his sister who now seemed startled by the abruptness. She twisted following her brothers form as he moved to leave and she took a few steps before stopping to look back at Gleb with an apologetic expression.
"I look forward to working with you, General Vaganov." Was the gentle remark before she hurried off to catch up to her brother's long strides. Somehow his hands and his heart felt lighter as he quietly answered back unheard.
"I look forward to working with you as well, Liesel Ivanova."
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@noblehcart con’t from [ here ]
He’d heard the muffled scream and without a thought to Crane he’d left the room, leaving the fear-master behind as Crane’s calls for him faded into nothing, his focus narrowing to a single room, floors away. What a cry to have even made it to him and Crane. What they must be doing to her to elicit such a cry. The thought brings a gun to his hand before he even consciously realizes he’d reached for it. It takes minutes to get to the room- minutes too long- and the guards outside follow him in. While he’s prepared to unleash a beating on whoever made her cry out, he’s not prepared for the scene that greets him.
She’s hanging, wrists bound with chains from the ceiling and it’s only sheer strength of will that he doesn’t empty the contents of his stomach right that second. He needs to move, to strike, to stop this, but he’s frozen for a split second that feels like a lifetime. It feels like his very blood ices over, freezing him in place as his skin grows clammy ( it had been cold in that goddamn basement before they’d thought to toss a blanket over him ) and his shoulders ache ( they only let him down to beat him more, than Y A N K it was right back up so not a moment to breath or heal was given ) and his stomach twists as though it hasn’t been a mere few hours since he last ate something ( he wouldn’t be able to say when he ate- if he ate, in that damp room ).
The flashback lasts only a moment, then all that’s left is R A G E. A gunshot lets her down ( if he’d been more coherent he’d have let her down gently, but reason and rationale have left him ) and then bullets fly into one, two, three men who sat and watched it happen. Not the leader though, no, a bullet in his brain would be too quick, too kind. He drops the gun and its his fists that show this asshole what happens when you disobey his orders, when you fuck with his girl.
He’s so far gone he doesn’t even realize the body beneath his fists has stopped fighting back, stopped flailing… stopped moving entirely. The two guards that had followed him in are wisely sticking near the door- witnesses to pass word of what happens when the Arkham Knight is disobeyed. Liesel’s voice starts to break through the red sheen across his vision, but it’s her hand touching him that causes him to whip around, an arm flying out with a finger pointing across the room. “Go back to where you were sitting.” His voice is harsh, even through the filter and he can’t tell her why he needs her away from him, away from the blood. He can’t touch her, not like this, not drenched in blood and rage.
He won’t let that touch her.
“Sit down. Shut up. I gave orders, they disobeyed.” He turns away from her to pin his faceless mask on the two guards by the door, causing them to startle and stand up straighter as though he’s about to leap at them ( who knows, in the mood he’s in, he just might ). “Make sure you remember this. You’re in charge now. My orders are the same. Get the numbers, don’t. Fucking. Touch her. Understood?” Quick, nervous nods and he knows they’ll obey. Now that they know what awaits them if they don’t. He can’t help the half glance back at her. “You okay?”
#omfg this is well and truly a drabble I'M SO SORRY#pls gods do not feel the need to match any kind of this length#this is crazy and I recognize that haha#HE JUST HAS A LOT OF FEELING MY BOY DOES#noblehcart#jason todd. / int. / liesel ivanov. / noblehcart#jason todd. / v. / arkhamknightreigns
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drabble: office hot gossip
Author’s note: yeah there is legit no point here other than me indulging in liesel dealing with office gossip in the Leningrad office.
LENINGRAD, RUSSIA : circa 1927
"what is it this time?"
because there was a particular group of workers who gathered in the small kitchenette, beside the samovar as hot tea was sipped at and equally hot gossip. liesel preferred not to get involved with office gossip, but sometimes one couldn't help but get involved or overhear the occasional salacious piece...besides it was a little interesting.
"we were just discussing how lucky we are to work in an office with such handsome men dedicated to their country." alisa smirked as she delicately sipped at her tea.
alisa fedorova was perhaps, by most standards, the prettiest of the office girls and she wielded her rank with terrifying ease. the only one who didn't shrink at the girl's ferocity was samara bazhenov, who was a middle aged terror and dragon in her own right nearly ruling the office with as much a steely fist as gorlinsky himself. there was a small betting pool on who would win in a battle of intimidation (her bet was on comrade bazhenov.)
lips pressed into line, hinting at frown though olive green eyes twinkled slightly in amusement. of course, that was the topic of the hour. she had already heard a few of her closer friends remark on it and now it seemed like it had turned into an official topic. she tried to ignore it as best she could considering that her half brother was in the list of handsome desirable officers. "well...i can't argue that." she conceded knowing better than to speak any other way considering she didn't want the office secretarial pool turning on her for being less than social.
"General Baranov has been keeping up with his physique as much as Vaganov and Essen, you know." Liese tried not to flinch at the reference of names she considered friends. Anton Baranov had become a dear friend as of late and yes, like the other office girls, she had noticed his sharp frame. Major Essen had become like a brother now and General Vaganov …Gleb …well she kept her eyes focused on making her tea as she swallowed carefully.
"Of course, our officers have to remain fit for duty." She remarked lightly now keeping her back turned on Alisa's prying eyes and thanked god when she felt that thorny gaze disappear off her back. unfortunately, that gaze turned to a weaker prey at her side. Poor Misha. She was the most unfit girl for office work. Shy, timid and utterly affected by those around her at the slightest teasing; her only saving grace being that samara bazhenov had taken a liking to the dandelion like girl as a daughter or a niece and kept her under her dragon's wing protection.
"what do you make of our officers, misha?" alisa hummed watching the mousy girl stop digging into her biscuit tin for a bite to eat and freeze under the gaze of the six women in the small kitchen. "who do you think is one of our more handsome men, hm?"
gaping slightly, a fish out of water, misha set her biscuit down and glanced around anxiously before stammering out quietly. "i-i don't know....captain mikahilov is very kind and-and handsome i think-"
"oh please- mikhailov doesn't count." alisa hissed in return, startling misha back against the cabinets while clutching her tin as she tried to figure out what she said wrong. which was why liesel's eyes narrowed faintly, catching the venom in the other girl's tone and the thick tension that sat in the room as the other women shifted uncomfortable.
"and why is that?" liesel managed out as she gently stirred her cup while wondering if her guess was close as to why.
"he's diseased, obviously." the blonde hissed and in turn liesel flinched at the hatred unleashed in her words. "he's with that street walking whore. anything handsome about him is clearly gone-"
"she does have a name. natasha is a lovely woman." liesel retorted evenly in return as she carefully stepped around the girls sitting grouped around the table. natasha was friendly, clever and sharp, but no matter her profession she was still a person and no matter who luka mikhailov chose to see deserved respect. and in turn respect to him. he was the little brother she wished she had, but that also left her irritated at the animosity flooding from alisa. her guess as to why had been correct. she was still stinging from mikahilov's rejection. " and captain mikahilov is one of the BEST men in leningrad. there isn't any officer in this building who wouldn't serve with him."
not to mention it was dangerous to let loose lips slip about mikahilov because of General Vaganov's favor of the boy. not that alisa wasn't aware of such a thing. other than liesel it was alisa who kept tabs on everything that gleb vaganov did, said and looked. liesel was just glad that alisa had yet to pick anymore on how she felt about the general, but then again he was the most difficult man in the building to get to know other than gorlinsky...and perhaps her own brother. which unfortunately was the next topic of choice. "right, well, i still wouldn't put him in the ranks of vaganov, baranov or even ivanov."
liesel could feel the ice sliding down her spine at the light smirking tone. "so tell us, liesel, what is your brother up to, hm? any special women or men in his life?"
"aside from russia? no." she replied sharply at alisa's jab as she glanced to the ground briefly noting alisa's long skirt splayed on the ground. a thought came to mind and she mused on it for a moment before edging closer to another girl sitting on a stool in turn scooted closer to alisa as the foot of the stool sat on the edge of the skirt. "my brother is focused on his work and is just as interested in the role of deputy commissioner as general baranov and vaganov."
alisa smiled sweetly. "we're all very curious to see who will win that seat. the office will certainly change. positions shifting amongst the secretarial pool."
it felt traitorous to say, but the words spilled out anyway as liesel spoke coolly, utterly confident in her belief. "i'm sure general vaganov will be a great deputy commissioner. he's the obvious and better choice." eyes narrowed briefly at alisa. "besides even if my brother did get the role i know he'd be even more dedicated to his position than to anything or anyone. for that matter- he's not the romantic he looks to be."
and like an answer from God himself did samara bazhenov stride in looking in a dark mood as the entire group sat up straighter and made a point of finishing up their tea.
"private fedorova, commissioner kozlov needs you in his office immediately." bazhenov hissed as alisa leapt to her feet at the order while the sound of fabric ripped loudly in the room. the dark green skirt of alisa's, caught on the stool had ripped half way up to her thigh drawing a horrified shriek and a glare from bazhenov.
another delay, another order and situation to figure out. "go home and change, private fedorova." private bazhenov glowered as alisa fumbled to make herself decent before turning to liesel. "see to commissioner kozlov's orders, private ivanov and bring the paperwork to me since some girls can't be aware of their surroundings. afterwards general vaganov will be needing your assistance with a ceremony next week."
"yes, of course, comrade bazhenov. i'll go see to that." she managed out quickly as misha reached to take her tea cup for her allowing her to hurry out of the kitchen before a smile gave her away.
#// drabble#/ liesel ivanov / drabble#walkingshcdow#tagging u cause i referenced natasha bless her heart
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Drabble:
Journal Entries: The Siberian Journey (Russia 1916-1917)
@lordofthestrix
xx/xx/xxxx
This is I think my first entry in freedom. Absolute freedom. The countryside is passing me by in vibrant beautiful color and it almost makes me want to weep. It also makes me want to weep because I see the hovels and the poverty that the Romanovs do not see. Ever since the fiasco with almost escaping to France it was near impossible to find a means of freeing myself, but I finally found it.
It was just a matter of finding an opportunity during an outing with the girls. Creating a chaotic scene and then thankfully finding a cart of a certain measure. I'd like to think Tristan would find my method amusing. Ironically my inspiration came from a book in my time that felt so oddly appropriate. I have Addie la rue to thank for this chance at freedom. Escaping the sight of future deaths by hiding beneath corpses in a cart leaving the city. It was the most horrifying thing I have ever done and I cannot wait to find some stream or river to wash myself in gravel till my skin is raw. In a way I tried to think of it as a sort of penance for...for allowing the future to happen as it is. Though it more than likely it won't happen as it was because Tristan does know something of it.
But still who would look for a girl amongst the dead?
No one did as I was carted out of the city and out towards freedom. All that I have now in the world is my journal and a few pieces of jewelry to sell, but otherwise I am a child of the world as it seems. I'd like to say the future is bright and I suppose in a way it is, but I also know the world is going to be shaken to its core for many decades to come.
xx/xx/xxxx
I admittedly miss the plush of the trains afforded by traveling with Tristan, but I'd still gladly trade it for release. The benches are hard and the journey is long to siberia, but its as close to utter and complete freedom without having to fear my actions or words. I imagine my life in siberia and its hopeful. Maybe I can be a seamstress, or a teacher or....something; I'm sure I can do something out there. Its funny how growing up you don't consider your abilities to survive in the forest. There's horses at least. I can help care for horses though there isn't any pay in it I don't think. I'll figure it somehow.
I want a small cabin warmly lit by a fire and lamp light. A few books and the smell of the earth and trees brushing through an open window. Warm bread in the hearth. Its going to take quite a while to get there, but I'll get there.
I'm going to regret having to disembark at the next instance the train slows. Its better to continue changing means of travel because I have no doubt that Tristan's agents aren't stationed near everywhere hunting for me. Thankfully we are not in the age of instant messaging and telegrams and telephones are much more rudimentary and unreliable. I have an edge in that at least. I managed to steal an extra overcoat off a clothing line on my way to the train station and I'm sure I'll be needing it the deeper into siberia I go. Here's to hoping I don't die in the snow when winter hits, but I suppose if I do then it isn't the worst thing. My secrets and my future die with me. My hope for any means of going back to my own time has been virtually extinguished, but for the small faint ember barely glowing. I try to keep it alive if not for something to warm my fingertips with.
I think we're approaching another stop. I should stop.
xx/xx/xxxx
I've been walking for two weeks now and I want to die. My feet are killing me, blisters on everything that brushes the side of my boots and I can't stop shaking. I don't know if its because of exhaustion, little food or just fear. I miss home. My brother and parents. I miss being little and my uncle scooping me up in his arms when I tired from hiking the highlands and carried me back to the car.
I passed a cart and a truck going the opposite way and they mentioned that I was another full day's walk to the next city. I think I might be finally far out enough to start considering where I can settle in somewhere. Hopefully. We'll see where I can go from Irkutsk. The Paris of Siberia. A place filled with exiles just like me. Ironic really. Nearby are mountains to the northwest. Perfect remote place near the mountains and if I remember right its near the Vitim reserve though its probably not considered a reserve right now. Maybe I can go see the seals at lake Baikal- deepest lake in the world. I think I remember seeing a documentary about the seals there on Disney. It'd be nice to see more of the rugged nature. Sometimes I think I'm too much a city girl if these last two weeks were any indication and to be honest I'm missing the city horribly.
xx/xx/xxxx
God clearly herd my pryrs becase anothr truck came rollng by and this time its onits wy to Irkutsk. I wn't wrte much becase its hrd with the road ( i mss pvmnt), but at least i'moff my feet.
xx/xx/xx
I am now SURE I made the right decision. Fate or the universe must agree with me in that I can't meddle in the timeline. Street life is not becoming of me, but thankfully it was only two nights in Irkutsk when I passed by some men unloading a small truck; one of which men was talking about how he worried about his mother because she and his wife didn't get along. His mother refuses to leave her home and he was afraid he'd find her dead and alone. From the look of what came off the truck he seemed to live deep into Siberia. It didn't take long to get his attention and start talking with him. Probably one of the most difficult interviews in my life reassuring this man that I would absolutely love to move in with his mother and take care of her. No pay just as long as I had a roof over my head and thank God that I managed to convince him. He'll be returning home tomorrow morning and it would be a three day drive out. His village was north of Ikab'ya which is a 30 hour drive out from here alone.
Now what I'm afraid of is that he's going to murder me in the woods because I'm doing EVERYTHING my mother and uncle warned me not to do. Go off with strange men into the woods alone. Or at night. But I guess I just have to take this chance, try to find a weapon and pray to god that my guardian angels are with me. I need to turn in for the trip. Hopefully my next entry will be soon and I'll be alive.
xx/xx/xxxx
I am here and my roommate hates me. The journey was long and hard again, but at least I wasn't walking. My driver's name was Mikail Voronsky. Thankfully, he seemed to be a man of honor as he kept to himself and was a nice conversationalist asking about me and my past. I hated lying to him, but of course I couldn't tell him I was a time traveler from modern London escaping a vampire who wanted the secrets to the future. No. I am Sonya Nikolaievna Larina. I think the references are appropriate. Sonya, the antithesis to Raskolnikov, otherwise a saint accepting her existence as a long road to martyrdom. Nikolaievna as a means of honoring the girls and Larina, with her distain for apparent happiness and rejection of the man she loves. Sonya Larina is a woman escaping a terrible husband and wants to start life anew in solitude. Sonya Larina can cook and clean and sew and is a quick learner.
Sonya Larina wishes she could hear someone call her by her whole real name one last time, Elisabeth Andreievna Ivanova, but those days were gone long long ago.
Thank god I started this journal in French because I at least have to peace of knowing no one out here will be able to read it. As the musical of a famed Romanov went 'only the courts spoke french; russian was for the common folk.' as I am relieved to see.
We arrived to the small village at dusk and Mikail walked me to his mother's house after introducing me to his wife and children, or rather teenagers I should say, four boys. Then came the moment of truth, meeting his mother, Vassa, and letting her know that I had his permission and expectation to move in and help. To which I did feel terrible about. Being thrust on this woman who has maintained her house and been independent suddenly being told she can't be trusted on her own. Its terrible, but I do see the concern. She moves about, but not well and her fingers show the tell tale mark of age with rounded knuckles and fingers locked in an angle. The first night I am writing from the light of her lantern....through the window outside. She's locked me out. This is going to be hell if I can't win her over one way or another.........
xx/xx/xxxx
It has been a week since my last entry and its been a busy one. For two nights I slept outside the house, but on the third she let me sleep inside thanks, I think, to the meal I made and neatly folded laundry left at the step. She's starting to see I'm useful and that I don't argue. What's the point really? I'm exhausted from the mental olympics Tristan gave me at the palace. A cantankerous old woman is not going to get my goat here, but she's warming up. Bit by bit as I listen to her complaints and bitter gossip while I mend and cook and clean. Its funny but I really sort of like her, I'd like her better if I didn't have to sleep outside in terror for two nights.
I noticed the village doesn't have a school and its a very closed community. I see why Mikail was okay with a stranger caring for his mother. No one liked Vassa, an outcast so what did it matter than another outcast helped her? Well...its not great being stared at as I walk to get water and line dry the clothes, but I'll find a way to just ignore it. I saw a couple of kids lingering near by to stare at the new stranger before rushing away. Maybe I can find a way to settle in here somehow.
xx/xx/xxxx
Its been a few weeks since my last entry now. A good month and a half-ish though the days just blur out here. Vassa has now warmed to me much more and I think its just sheer determination on my part with enduring her remarks and her smacking my hands at certain points when I tried to do things. She showed me how to do them better. And she has so many stories. I love listening to them by the small hearth she has in the evening when I make us some tea. The villagers still stare, but I think they're getting used to me being here now. Some of the children even said hello and asked a few questions. I really hope this is some hint that I can fit in here some day soon.
At least Mikail and his wife seem relieved that things are working out. He brings us wood for the hearth, sometimes sending one of his boys around to bring it, which helps so much since the last time I tried to break firewood I nearly lost a foot. One of the boys saw it and told him I think and thank god they did. Vassa is sleeping now and I should turn in too. She's been more tired lately, but at least not so grumpy. I should try to warm one of the blankets and set it on her to help with her aches.
xx/xx/xxxx
Vassa is both a mentor and an eerie seer. She knows. As in she KNOWS, but yet doesn't fully know. We sat out behind her house staring at the dense wood expanding behind it just yards away and she asked me who I was running from. I told her my story and she looked at me with such a look I don't know that I'll ever recover from. It made me feel like some naughty little girl who so obviously got caught and lied still. I had to tell her something of the truth. I was running from a powerful man who wanted something I knew. That I was afraid and I just wanted to be left alone to live in peace without the turmoil being near him would bring. She was silent for a long time and patted my hand reassuring me that I'd survive it. I asked her survive what? but she never answered me. Next I looked over she was dozing in her chair again and we sat there till night fell and it was time for supper.
xx/xx/xx
Its been about three months now. I can't believe it. I'm free. Those first few weeks I lived on edge constantly searching the tree line for him or for anyone like him who'd drag me into the darkness like some horror creature in fairytales devouring young girls. But nothing. I have nothing to fear anymore and I'm relieved. The villagers like me more now because I've managed to temper Vassa's bad moods and the children come by for treats I bake when I have the ingredients.
But I'm worried.
Mikhail and I had to have the 'talk' about Vassa. She is very old and everyone knows she doesn't have very long left if she makes it to snowfall. I asked if that meant I'd have to leave the house and find somewhere else and he said he was thinking of it, but his sons might be marrying soon and would need a house and it is in their family's. So ...so much for that security, but I'll figure it out somehow.
xx/xx/xxxx
Well its been another two weeks and the matter of the house was settled by none other than Vassa herself. I shouldn't be surprised, but somehow I was when she and I went for our daily walk in the village and overheard the rumors and talk about what would happen to her house. Everything about her is aching, slow and impaired, all but her ears. My god that woman's ears are in absolute working order. The next thing I know she's yelling at the others that the house would go to me and if anyone tried to ignore her wishes she'd haunt them and curse their families.
Mikhail's wife brought me a basket of vegetables the next morning with an uneasy smile. Vassa and I laughed for the next hour.
We feasted that night on a rather robust dinner, Vassa ate more than I've seen her eat in weeks and for once it felt like home. She was kind that night and offered to brush my hair telling me how she wished she had daughters, but all she had were sons. I admittedly cried. I missed my mum and how she'd brush and braid my hair. I missed home all of a sudden in rush that I had been ignoring the nudges of throughout all this time. Vassa let me cry other than a chide that tears never fixed anything but the soul. She made me think of my great aunt diana in a way.
She told me to open my eyes more to the village that they'd continue to take me in and that someone already did. I noticed as much. His name is Sergei Pavlov. He has kind eyes and is a hard worker. A soft round face that didn't match the sharp cut of his physique from working, but it was those eyes I find on me when Vassa and I walk about. Right now I can't think of him or that. I don't want to. My heart still belongs in another time and I would never be a good wife to anyone right now.
xx/ xx/xxxx
Vassa has left me. Its been four months now, of being here in the village, altogether. I was out in the woods with the other women, they started inviting me now to go with them to gather mushrooms. I've finally perfected my stroganoff. I was so excited to tell Vassa what we'd be having for dinner, but when I went to Mikhail's where I left her to sunbathe on her son's porch she was gone. Stepping inside I asked for her and Mikhail's wife, Marya was in tears telling me she had passed over the last hour. She looked so small laid carefully in a bed in Mikhail's home. My one dear friend and somewhat confidant was gone and now I was alone again.
I suppose the joke is on me for thinking I was ever not alone. Now the house seems too big and awkward and out of place. Maybe now I'm the one out of place again. The burial is tomorrow morning at dawn. Vassa always was an early riser and loved seeing the dawn crest through the woods.
I miss her so much.
xx/xx/xxxx
I taught a class today. Its been two weeks since Vassa left and I felt aimless in the house. Fearful the first week that Mikhail would force me out, but he didn't and no one questioned it either. Thank god for that. But the house is still too big for me and its somewhat scary being on my own in here. I still have my daily chores but I finish it early with plenty of time since I don't have to care for Vassa in between. So I decided I'd teach.
It did not go over very well at first, but I managed to get a few students. All boys because unfortunately the girls must stay and do housework. I'll find a way to get them in bit by bit. One of Mikhail's sons came over and helped me rearrange the house so I could have the children sit on the floor in rows as I worked out how to have the means to teach. Over the weeks as travelers and caravans came through to sell things I've managed to buy a few books, pencils and extra paper. I might have to take class outdoors and write in the dirt but at least its something.
Sergei came by as well to offer his condolences and left me some wild flowers. I have to remain resolute with him. But the flowers are pretty and it makes me happy to see them on the table.
xx/xx/xxxx
I've gotten more students and they're so sweet. There's finally three girls. Two of them sisters. They bring me ribbons sometimes and sometimes some of the boys bring an apple. More often than not I try to cook a meal to share with all the kids and make it a lesson in of itself literary wise. Teaching has finally started to fulfill some sort of aching gap that was left in my life. I hated it in the palace not doing anything productive. Papa always had a creative outlet, uncle sasha continually found chores right along with mama. Never a dull unproductive moment unless it was a reading break and even then reading was a measure of learning and doing too. I'm going to try to sneak some lessons for the other girls who's parents won't let them attend. Bits and pieces after all can make a reader.
And I don't see anything wrong or world changing by teaching someone living in the middle of the Vitim woods to read.
I'm hoping the caravan comes by again soon so I can build up more on my books and trade for a few more things. Vassa's house is feeling a lot more like my own now and I try to keep her spirit alive with everything I do. Like getting up early to watch the dawn and sometimes I think I can almost feel her there with me watching it come over the green of the woods, which are now starting to change color and turn bare.
Winter will be upon us soon and I'm not looking forward to my first siberian winter.
#// drabble#lordofthestrix#/ liesel ivanov / drabbles#NOW THAT WAS FUN TO WRITE#after the last entry things slow /speed up more because she's teaching the kids to read and sergei keeps pushing things#luckily- or unluckily tristan can take her back for anything serious comes of it#i want to be generous and say she's escaped for 6 months total by the time tristan finds her again#i mean she's literally in the middle of siberia#in an era with millions of people and little tech to go by#and im like 99% sure she tried to throw tristan before she left#like mentioning how she's always wanted to see paris again and austria ...ect#more europe driven ideas of escaping to than fleeing to deeper russia
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drabble: siberian adventures continued....
@lordofthestrix
xx/xx/xxxx
the school is flourishing. i think vassa would be relieved to see how things have settled in here and that the village has finally warmed up to me more. i think about 80% of the children come to my rudimentary lessons and they're doing wonderfully. some are coming along more stubbornly, but that's to be expected. i've even seen some adults lingering around the area as if to listen in. at first i thought it was to make sure i wasn't teaching them something inappropriate, but something tells me it isn't that.
maybe i can reach a different population with my classes. we'll have to see.
michal's family has continued to take me in and his wife has warmed up more considerably. to which i'm so relieved. its so much more lonely now without vassa. i miss her voice even if it was scolding me for fumbling through chores she used to do steadily.
sergei has been coming around a bit more too. like he's taken the personal responsibility to make sure i have all that i need. i'm worried about what that means. hopefully i'm being silly.
xx/xx/xxxx
its starting to get cool. winter will soon be on us and i'm afraid. everyday i pile more and more wood in preparation. the village women tease that i'm going to host a bonfire for the entire community. the older women cluck that i should marry one of the men available to take care of me and the house. i could just imagine how vassa would've scowled at their remarks....then later bring up sergei again. he brought me more flowers.
and kindling.
sometimes those old women almost make me believe their right. there's a song in the musical jekyll & hyde that comes to mind. 'A girl alone, all on her own, must try to have a heart of stone' .
a heart of stone indeed. it is still lonely. and sergei has such a sweet smile. somehow i have to remain resolute. i don't have a future here so i need to remember not to start one. i have to remind myself that tristan could find me any day and i'll have to run again....but i can't live here always fearing he'll show up like an ugly spider in a corner of the house. if i have to live in this time then i want to live as best i can without changing anything.
xx/xx/xxxx
i've gotten my first few adult students now. i'm so excited. one of the married village girls, polina , she's expecting soon and can't do much but sit now. a perfect student. there's an older man, vasili, who used to ask me to read whatever news was printed in the papers we get once a month. now he's learning to read for himself.
my woodpile grows. sergei brought more wood for it and flowers. and he smiles at me again.
the first snowfall began as he walked away. winter has begun its descent and its bringing change. i know it will and i can feel it as the air chills my skin.
xx/xx/xxxx
he almost kissed me. sergei. he offered to fix a broken shelf in the house after it fell and nearly hit the children during their lesson. everyday the number of attending students dwindles with the snow. i know soon enough we'll all be trapped in our homes to survive off what was saved earlier. and i'll be alone.
or maybe not so alone.
sergei was hanging my dried herbs up for me after having fallen down when he fixed the shelf. he turned to me and leaned down to speak- to kiss me when the last caravan drove into the village for the month with its loud bells and whistles. last chance for precious valuables. paper. chalk. ink. boots. books.
i don't know who pulled away, but there was no kiss and we went on with our work.
xx/xx/xxxx
its snowed blindly for two weeks now. i almost screamed when i saw a figure by the window near the woodpile. a thief. or so i thought. sergei lifted his head and i made him come inside to warm up for a moment. he told me he brought more firewood. it wasn't safe for me to go out on my own since i was still so clearly from the city. he somehow made me laugh at that. and he brought me flowers, dried flowers, but still.
-then somehow i asked him to come to dinner tomorrow. he said yes. for once i feel hopeful. safe here in my little home in the snow. my personal snow globe- safe and sound.
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drabble: in which ale.k gwyl.im & liesel get to know one another
@lordofthestrix
"um, alek is it?" liesel stammered out at last within the library or war room. she wasn't sure which it was or if it was both. a part of her worried about how much trust tristan put into this mysterious man who was now staring at her.
he must have realized just the same as he glanced away with a warm laugh then shook his head. "forgive me, my lady. you just look so much like your ancestor. in this new world its like seeing a ghost."
"oh, you knew my ancestor then?"
"very well. her name was ecaterina" forest green eyes took in the look in his before feeling her cheeks flush at that flicker of emotion.
"oh." she said with a soft breath which made him laugh again. she liked his laugh. it was warm and filled the air with a sense of comfort she hadn't felt since the beginning of all this chaos.
"nothing so intimate, my lady. she was just a very dear friend."
"liesel, please. just liesel." she asked with a soft smile as shoulders relaxed under his gaze. "it sounds like we'll be doing a lot of work together. so...please just call liesel, alek."
"of course, liesel." he said with emphasis on her name with a twinkle of mirth in his eyes that made her smile all the more. "i only wish the circumstances of us meeting were on a better tidings. though i suppose it wouldn't happen at all if it weren't for this...situation."
tristan had told her enough, but there were still questions. there were still gaps. she was only just still getting used to the concept of the supernaturals as a whole, but to hear that this man before her was older than tristan and vampires as a whole was shocking. unbelievable. he looked barely older than her though his frame fit the soldier's description and the fine lines around his eyes told the nights of worry and strategizing. other than his odd way of speaking there was little to tell of his magic imbuement.
"i think a bit of wine is in order. tristan can spare us a bottle or two i think." alek surmised before turning to a small alcove with bottles and glasses as she agreed in relief. even still with his back to her while he gathered the bottle and glasses with far too much ease. she wondered just how many bottles he had handled in his lifetime as he turned to her balancing all three with grace and nimble hands. feet carried her over to his side to take a glass from him as he set his own on the nearest table so both hands could hold the bottle. his rough calloused large hands made easy work of the cork, removing it with a finesse surprisingly smooth and gentle than she thought he would.
"thank you." she said as he neared to fill her glass and she caught the color of his pale blue eyes. he smiled in return before taking his seat with an aching sigh.
"you'd think immortality would take away the old aches, but it seems the dark powers wanted to torture us in every measure."
liesel's head tilted slightly as she sipped then spoke. "tristan told me about the 'dark powers', but i'm still a little lost." she saw his eyes darken as a storm swirled in the greys, his mouth tightening before he took a drink of the wine and adjusted his grip on the bottle. somehow she had already missed that he was refilling his second glass already.
"they're a being that my lord- that strahd bargained with for his power and immortality. its darkness. its evil. it consumed him because it found his weakness. an obsession with a girl. tatyana. in his bargain it cursed us both."
he chuckled somberly. "well damned him to what he is and cursed me to what i am now. his undoing. i suppose its only fair to me-" his hand moved over his chest with a grimace. "he killed me to complete his ritual. he killed his brother, sergei, to take his bride tatyana. they were both children really."
"i'm so sorry." she said taking a seat near him as forest dark green eyes reflected the sorrow welling in her chest at the story. at the sound of the weariness and ache in his voice.
"don't be. we never stood a chance. we all placed our trust in him and i, the fool, i loved him" he sighed with a slight movement of his hand clutching the bottle. "but now i have to make things right. end this tragedy that's fall on all of us."
her hand reached out to lightly cover his as she spoke again with a confidence she didn't know she had. "we will make things right. you, me and tristan. we'll finish this. just tell me what all i can do to help. i'm not really familiar with magic, but i'll do everything i can."
the hand cradling the bottle easily set it down before taking her hand in his and she noticed how small and fragile her fingers were against his. "your task in all of this might be the most dangerous of all. your ancestors bargained and used the dark powers. its in your blood and might be our only advantage against him. i'll do all i can to keep you from meeting our fates. in complete honesty it might take a miracle."
she sighed with a smile. "faith makes a miracle and a miracle makes faith."
it was the first time she saw the relief and delight in his eyes as he answered in turn. "then something tells me we will be just fine."
#// drabble#request: alek gwylim#/ liesel ivanov / drabble#not me patting myself on the back for sneaking in an I Strahd quote#but also yes to support what i already sent you#in case you wanted to get a better feel of things#i may have an fc for him too -wink-
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drabble: yule ball take 2 a winter solstice
@walkingshcdow
she thought of percy as the cold bit through her dress and the wind danced across the garden sending loose strands of hair to coldly kiss her cheek. "They don't feel the cold," Percy had said then, gazing at the revelers. "The Fair Folk are nothing if not a part of nature. Neither chill nor heat disturbs them."
she supposed she should've remembered that upon stepping out of the ballroom into the elements. the ballroom was still cool for her taste, but the heat of the swirling dancers and the raging hearths, torches and fireplaces burning solely for decoration were still just slightly warmer than the unrestrained elements. although she supposed it wouldn't matter soon enough. she'd eat something off the plate resting on her knees and she'd be tied to a fae court once and for all of her life. no more being left out. belonging somewhere some how. there would be more freedom. more choice in a way. she’d die eventually as she would die untethered, but at least it’d be easier.
a willful part of her mind told her that she was just blinding herself to the truth of the matter. taking the easy road that would blind her to the truth. but she had been resisting on her own for quite some time now. cressida, her personal servant, had made so many sniping remarks to how long and willfully stubborn she had been to refusing food and drink. that now at the length it had been at that it was almost insulting. that she couldn’t continue toeing the line of honored guest for much longer.
in complete honesty she knew her days were more likely numbered and that the rules that bound the unseelie king to protect an ‘honored guest’ were wearing thin if she displeased him. which more often than not she did. which was why she stared at the plate of food after a few hours of dancing late into the night. she stared at the rib of meat and fresh vegetables brought by the seelie court in token to celebrate the solstice. its rich abundance and warmth wafting up to her nose and made her think about the benefits of the seelie court. evergreen. bright. lively. the seelie queen masha, seemed kind and warm, if the golden glint in her eyes didn’t remind her of a golden arrow that could pierce anyone’s heart. her current champion, gleb, was kind and equally warm. one of the few in either courts to be friendly to her. she knew she’d like the seelie court. she felt like she knew the seelie court and creatures better. she could make a life for herself there somehow with whatever time she had left.
-but she’d rarely see stefan again.
she wasn’t sure how the law and restrictions worked between the two courts. unless she became a member of masha’s court then she could only assume she couldn’t travel between the two often or if ever at all. joining the seelie ranks would mean possibly never seeing her brother again. not that he cared to remember she existed. he seemed as of late to only live and breathe for his king. he was happy and she loved to see him happy though it wounded her to see him forget all about her. forget why he even came to the unseelie court to begin with.
whether the king cared to admit it at all she knew in her heart of hearts that his happiness with her brother was thanks to her and her alone. it was debt she knew he’d never acknowledge or admit, but she knew. and she knew she’d love her brother till either breathed their last. she didn’t want to stop seeing him.
eyes swept over to the clear goblet of wine and sumptuous dessert that resembled snow and candied ice in swirls of silver, white and dark blue. the closest thing to color aside from shades of black and grey that the unseelie court liked. she could stay with the unseelie court. see her brother. perhaps even have something of a title. champion’s sister. that had to mean something, didn’t it? a place at court no less. she’d have the freedom to roam the fey wild in the unseelie lands. she’d get to keep her friends, stolas and octavia, elwan and fania. she could stay in the silvers and content herself here. perhaps find work doing something with books. at least they wouldn’t drain at her the way they do now once she was claimed in-part by the fae law.
“if i may offer an alternative-?”
she startled nearly dropping the plate and glass entirely at the sound of percy’s voice. she didn’t know how she didn’t hear him approach.
the ground crackled with ice and crunched with snow amongst the fallen branches that had blown out with the wind. the fae of the hour. the real reason why the party was going on to begin with if yuletide hadn’t been already so close. winter solstice. shortest day of the year. darkness across the world creeps in for longer signaling and celebrating the cold that was to come. it was funny to her that it was percy’s duty to bring about the seasons, especially winter, because he was anything but cold. he was a playful autumn breeze, he was the shining light of summer, he was the bright color of spring....but he was nothing like the winter. the only thought that she could make of percy and winter was his warmth. he was the warmth respite of a hearth in the cold of winter. safe. comforting. burning with a flame unlike anyone else. he felt so familiar sometimes. like she could just fall into his arms and let herself forget the rest of the world.
-but she didn’t.
it was improper. he was one of the esteemed rulers....of a sort. the uncourt. the wild hunt. one of the triumvirate of rulers though he had no court. however if stolas’s careful remarks were telling then perhaps the two courts lived in deathly fear of him. she wasn’t sure she wanted to know either. she wanted to keep thinking of him as the sole kind fae that was her friend. her confidant. her....she wasn’t sure of the word yet. defining that meant defining her feelings about him. though she could easily say that those feelings were as warm as his coat that he now draped around her shoulders after she had stood up after setting her plate and goblet on the bench beside her.
“thank you. it got to be so chilly all of a sudden.” she said now realizing just how cold she felt. the dress was impractical for a winter ball, but not for a fae winter ball. even still it was impractical for a human in a fae ball.
although she couldn’t bring herself to regret it either. it was exactly what she wanted. elawn called it his masterpiece. she had begged and pleaded with him to undertake the daunting task of her idea, straying away from the winter themes of snowflakes, darkness, ice, and winter. i want it to shimmer like starlight. she had pleaded and he refused reminding her that starlight was difficult to replicate. the night sky with shimmering , she paused and added, silver stars. that’s court ties enough isn’t it? he had only scowled at her and gestured at her petite frame with a scoff.
i’m not putting you in dark colors, dearest. they’d swallow you whole.
she bravely stepped up to take his hands, squeezing firmly with unexpected fondness. i know but i also know you can give me starlight. please? a shimmery starlight gown. like the north star.
elawn had only made the sighing remark that she should ask her bird friend about it since he’s in the business that deals with miracles and curses and stars, but at the end he agreed to see what he could do. for a moment when the gown had been delivered to her room the afternoon of the ball she was admittedly disappointed. it looked like any celestial type of dress she had seen on teenagers going to prom or other dances. she almost asked if it was a mistake, but the words didn’t fall as elawn swept into the room with a wave of his hand sending the doors shut and the balcony doors shut in a whoosh. without a word he marched over to where she stood holding the dress and struggling to find something nice to say when he ripped it out of her hands and shook the dress with a snap. the sound of tinkling balls bounced across the marbled floor and the silver and gold star dress that befitted a teenager unveiled before her eyes into something else entirely. the tawdry gold stitched stars had melted into golden threads at the ribs like the silvers of the smaller stars separated and multiplied dispersing across the dress like tiny silvery flickering flames.
the dress itself seemed to burn in silvery hued flames as it was consumed and transformed into starlight. hundred of pricks of flickering starlight of different sizes had congregated at the bust before cascading in a slight fade throughout the rest of the dress. the thin sheer cape at the shoulders unrolled itself from the tawdry silver pauldrons at the shoulders melting and unfolding into the sheerest shimmering spider thread like tulle. she wanted to weep. she’s pretty sure she was crying as he explained why the dress had to be changed. he didn’t want to risk it being destroyed by jealous fae hands or would be courtiers who’d do anything to get their hands on it.
even more he groused at her as he skimmed over the material again searching for faults. you have no idea how difficult it was to get this sort of faelight species to adhere to the dress. incredibly rare to find this color faelight as its mined from a notoriously difficult cave in the fae wild. i had to trade my favorite cufflinks for these so you’d better be appreciative of it.
she’s sure she cried more, but all she could really remember was hugging elawn as he awkwardly and shortly returned the gesture before demanding she get into it so he can do final touches as he had other fae to finish up as well. so she put on the weightless dress in utter disbelief that it was made for her.
now you are to tell the king, elawn griped under his breath as he adjusted a seam, that should he want something like this and better then to ask for me.
liesel smiled wryly, you told me this dress was almost impossible-
the trick dearest, elawn hummed with a needle in hand, is to always undersell and overdeliver. that way the customer is always delighted. you wanted something as basic and silly as the *north star*, but i gave you the essence of the winter solstice. i gave you a dress of the star reborn in flashing shimmering silverlight. precisely what the winter solstice is about. rebirth. that is what you want isn’t it? to shine like the star born on the darkest of nights?
rebirth. she supposed now, as she stood in the frosted frozen roses with percy, that in the end that was what she wanted. rebirth into a new life. to live differently. to live again. whether it was a new life amongst the unseelie or the seelie. she needed a fresh start. a different slate. and her path to that sat on the abandoned plate she had left on the bench till his words echoed in her mind what he had said mere moments ago.
and so she asked in slight confusion, head tilting up to meet his eyes as her small diadem of faelights matching her dress shifted and shimmered with the movement..
“what do you mean alternative?”
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drabble: liesel & sir tony (fae au)
"oh god-! you scared me!" Liesel could scarcely catch her breath as Tony laughed while pulling her out of the bush. He had startled her from deep thoughts and she had fallen into the closest bush with a mild shriek as flower petals and leaves scattered onto the stone floor of the garden path around them.
"the apologies are mine, miss ivanov." he smiled warmly as he helped her upright, lightly dusting off the leaves and bramble off her skirt. "i should've noticed you were lost in thought."
she laughed smiling at him with a sadness that he felt looked foreign on her features. "it seems like that's the only place i'm allowed to get lost in these days."
"is a rapier necessary for that? what sort of battles are you facing in that lovely mind of yours?" was the teasing snort in response as he tilted his head to the weapon sitting on the bench she had once been staring at before he had startled her. liesel flushed glancing at the sword while trying to find an explanation that wouldn't make her feel inept around him, but found no other response would do besides the truth. pride be damned.
"i um...might have borrowed it from the armory. there were several so i don't think it'll be missed." she added. "i was trying to remember some of the movies i had seen of people using one. to sort of...self teach myself."
a soft sigh was added after with another remark. "i was drawing up blank on any."
"i'd have thought, my lady, that you would ask sir percy for lessons. he's the best damned swordsman i've ever seen. we have quite the entertaining sparring bouts and i know with certainty that he would be honored if you were to ask." he knew percy very well enough to know when the man was interested in a person and knew humans well enough to know when they felt the same. no matter how timid they behaved to the notion as he watched her flush deeper than she had telling him the reason behind her startle.
"i kind of didn't want any one to know." she said quietly as one hand brushed back loose strands of hair that slipped from her neat braid. "there'd be questions and rumors that might get back to the king and questions i didn’t want to answer and-and well....i didn't want to bother him. i-i don't have to learn, but i um..."
but she told him. he smiled his warmest smile before dipping into a slight bow. "well then, you have my word that your secret is safe with me, miss ivanov."
her relief was palpable as petite frame relaxed and she smiled differently at him while speaking. "thank you, lord dewhurst."
"please, just call me antony-" he insisted with a shake of his head. " or tony even."
"only if you call me liesel. none of that miss ivanov or my lady business." was the delighted plead at the idea that she might have another friend. she had gotten along thus far with all of the league that she had met, but never quite had enough time to really speak thoroughly with them all. it would figure that sunny laughing antony would be the first. "it would be so nice to not have to deal with courtly propriety all the time. scandalous as that might be. besides i’m not really a lady here so to speak."
"liesel, it is, but i don't think i'll stop with 'my lady'." he laughed as she'd smiled quizzically at the rather odd exception though she found that somehow from him it didn’t carry the same weight as when other people said it. perhaps that’s because on the tongues of others it was a sarcastic. antagonistic and cruel. none of which would ever be used to describe tony. “you are a lady whether the court officially deems you as such or not. not to mention the unseelie court is damned lucky to have you as a guest if i may say so. you’ve brightened up all our visits here at the least. the rest of the court can be so dreadfully stuffy.”
“thank you. i had forgotten what...”she paused fighting back the stinging hint of tears as his words touched a raw edge of her heart. “what genuineness actually sounded like. the only friends i have here at court is prince stolas and his daughter.”
tony frowned at the remark before extending his hand to which she placed hers in his only to find his grasp gently squeezing hers. “you have a friend in me then as long as duty to the league permits me. and-” he added quietly. “if you’d like a few lessons i’d be happy to share some with you whenever the league comes to visit. in private.”
he cast a glance to the rapier on the stone bench before look at her mischievously. “though i think a different weapon would be better suited for you- like a foil. for a newcomer to the art like yourself.”
for the first time in the longest time liesel laughed, her hand slipping from his hand as she covered her mouth giggling and trying to control the sound. sometimes it felt like it was improper or illegal to laugh here at court, but she always found herself doing so with percy and his men. dear tony her newfound friend and secret keeper of silly ideas. she brushed her eyes from the tears that almost fallen as she laughed shaking her head. “i think i’ll leave the weapons choices to you, tony. i just grabbed the first thing i was able to lift. everything else i felt like would topple me over.”
“rightly so.” he grinned before glancing between them. “well then first lesson we begin on footwork. it’ll be a bit of time before we lift a sword, my lady. though i have quite the feeling you’ll be picking it up sooner than you or i think.”
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drabble: socialite au in which vincent arnoult is threateningly nice
"um, vincent-?"
the little tailor shop was the perfect place to catch him. or so she thought at least. he was perhaps one of the intimidating people she had ever met. sort of. nothing compared to the society vipresses that hissed at her at st. george's, but still of the boys at Eton- she was rather terrified.
but terror had to be conquered because she owed him a thanks.
it was an hour's train ride from st. george's to eton, but it must be done. he had saved her hide in the midst of being skinned by the olivia gray and her attendants at the last evening garden party held by some old classmate of her mother's. he had whisked in like a sudden fog materializing at her side where she had been trapped and nearly tripped into the massive expanse of the water fountain base. the strong brace of his arm had magically looped around her waist as her unsteady heel hit the concrete basin nearly toppling her over. the girls immediately set to praising his heroics with little gwen cadieux gaping starstruck while liesel tried to make sense of her rescuer. a smart dry remark was made before vincent asked if she was thirsty and she could only answer with a nod as he led her away on his arm making the world spin in how suddenly everything had shifted. just as smoothly moments later a glass with champagne was placed in her hands and vincent arnoult said little else the rest of the night which was thankfully short. after breathless sips of her drink and nerves were settled he directed her across the glimmering garden lit with twinkling lights towards her mother. a pristine gentleman he let her mother know that he'd be sending his personal car to take her home.
now here she was standing outside of the tailor's shop that she had seen him step into. her small box, chosen with care, resided in her hands as she stood waiting patiently for him to step out before anxious anticipation had her peering through the shop window- then looking away at the sight of his piercing dark eyes staring back at her. fingers tightened on the gift as she tried to remain calm, now facing the street as she tried to steel her resolve to even stay, but luckily vincent emerged and turned to walk the opposite direction from her. quickly.
" um, vincent-?" she managed out quickly scurrying to catch up with him, gift still carried in both hands as she reached his side then slightly ahead as he abruptly stopped.
"i-i wanted to give you this. as a thanks for the ...for helping me at-at christine spencer's party last week. i really-" she stammered out holding the flat square box out which was scrutinized before being taken abruptly from her hands and tucked into his suit jacket.
"let me be absolutely clear, elisabeth. " the low tone harsh startling her as she looked up at the clearly annoyed expression on his features. " i don't have time to be here, engaging with you. write a card next time so you don't waste mine."
she stumbled to the side as he brushed past her a second later and continued on without a second glance back while she restrained the sting of tears. immediately she turned back around towards the college to find julian cromwell and cry on his shoulder while he reassured her that vincent arnoult was known to be a stiff arse and that she was far too kind and above him to take anything he thought or said to heart. it helped. she had resolved herself to try and forget the experience entirely. she knew she hadn't done anything wrong- she had gone out of her way to show her appreciation and he was rude.
it still stung nevertheless, but she tried to shake it off.
just like she tried to shake off the brief confusion two weeks later at a coffee shop from the corner of her home on the outskirts of london. a cappuccino was set on her her table by the waitress in the midst of where her books were splayed out.
"i-i didn't order this." was the breathless stammer as she tried to tell the waitress who scurried off while a shadow at the corner of her vision appeared. she tried not to startle again as the frame of vincent arnoult now stood at her table and then sat across from her, still looking as stern and immovable as he always did.
"i don't apologize, elisabeth. i'd like to say that firstly." dark lashes fluttered as she tried once again to make sense of the presence of vincent across from her, but remained silent as he continued to meet her eyes. "-however, i'm aware that my behavior could be considered... reprehensible."
there was a lingering silence for a moment before she realized what he was saying exactly. "oh um, its um...forgiven and forgotten, vincent." swallowing thickly she glanced around then back to the cup before posing a question. "how did you even find me he-"
she wasn't sure where or when he had gotten a cloth napkin, but she watched as he carefully folded one and set it to the side as another cup of coffee was set in front of him. "i have contacts, elisabeth. getting an address really isn't that hard and you're rather predictable."
"its actually liese-" her words died in her throat as the look he fixed her with left her dry and scarcely able to breathe. she supposed the whole name preference thing wasn't really that important.
" the gift-" he remarked pointedly. "-was thoughtful. you're clearly observant, considerate and rather kind if i'm going to be generous."
she stammered a response as he took a sip of his coffee. "ah-thank you-?"
"i'm not finished." vincent set the cup back down, mindful of her books then looked over the girl across from him with a slight air of distaste she could sense in a heartbeat. " you're obscenely naïve and the incident at the spencer party was my taking pity on you because you are so inanely helpless. i don't extend pity or mercy often and so i thought it best i inform you i'll only do so twice more."
"i'm not helpless, vincen-" though the tightness in her chest and the fearful anxiety of his presence down to her toes said otherwise. the bored expression of his only made it worse as he cut in.
"-you are and so the best 'gift' i can offer you is the advice to get a backbone, elisabeth." his fingers traced the curve of the cup while giving her a reprieve from the intense gaze now fixed on his coffee. "i am not your 'dark knight' or 'mr. darcy' as the girls in our social standing like to whisper about; i'm well aware of the rumors and romanticization. so i thought it was best i come down and state it clearly for your understanding. i will help you twice more, if and when i see fit, in order to give you the time to adjust to handling the likes of people like miss gray and her little followers."
she tried not to sink into her seat as he met her eyes again pinning her to the chair. "do we have an understanding, elisabeth?"
for a moment she couldn't manage to think of or form the three simple words that would end their meeting, but she eventually managed out the quiet response. "y-yes, we do."
#// drabble#socialite au yessss#ugh im in love with vincent#he's such a jerk#/ liesel ivanov / drabbles#npc; vincent arnoult
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drabble: a walk home
author's note: again another 1927 era drabble cause i never get to write this npc and i've been dying to work out his personality. he is SUCH a doll.
"-and what are you doing here still?" anton baranov thought the majority of the office had left already as the evening hours crept in and the building slowly fell quiet. to his surprise he found general vaganov's petite secretary standing in the coat room shuffling her bag and what looked to be her brother's coat.
"waiting for my brother...or i suppose, general vaganov at least, but they haven't come out from their offices?" he forgot that he never saw her leave the office without one or the other escorting her out. it was amusing to him that for men who so strongly believed in men and women's equality that both insisted that liesel not walk alone. he supposed in his own way he could see why. a strong enough winter wind seemed like it could blow her away and unfortunately not all men thought the way they did in regards to a woman's rights and capabilities. nor have the obvious affection towards her as he knew they had. which was why a faint grimace crossed his features as he delivered the unfortunate news.
"ah, gorlinsky pulled them into a last minute meeting. it didn't sound like a short meeting either." soft brow furrowed on her features as she took in the information then began to shift her brother's coat in her arms again tiredly.
"i see. i guess i'll be waiting for a while then."
his hand once rubbing at his neck, tired from being bent over paperwork, moved to brush the faint stubble on his jaw thoughtfully. "why don't i walk you home?"
her head snapped up, surprised by the offer. "i don't want to take up your time, general baranov. i'm sure you're tired and ready to head home yourself."
"anton, please." his head tilted towards her as a soft smile followed. "and it's not a problem. those two have their hands full and ...-why keep you sitting here? besides i'll walk back and let them know you're home safe and sound."
Already he turned and reached for his coat as he continued with a light laugh, already figuring he could also stop along the way to the butcher. His cabinets were beginning to look dreadfully low and unlike that befitting of an officer of his district. "Besides i could use the fresh air. The desk work is a bit... stifling."
liesel could only laugh quietly alongside him before pressing again. " general vaganov says just the same, but are you sure?"
"absolutely." was the firm response as he shrugged on his coat and waited for her to hang her brother's again then readjust her own. it was only moments of quiet before they were on the street walking side by side as she spoke up.
"thank you again, anton, for walking me. stefan is so protective i've told him so many times i could walk home alone, but he is a worrier."
"of that i know for sure." anton grinned recalling how stefan had driven him up the wall regarding reports that needed to be written, turned in and filed. he was close to crossing words if it wasn't for ruslan stepping in to distract him and lighten the tension brewing in the office. "besides one can't be too careful. we're a new country still learning to embrace some of these new ideals. it doesn't hurt to take some precautions."
"i guess you're right." she smiled shaking her head at how right he was. she realized it was the first time she had ever actually been alone with anton baranov. somehow she had always been around him in the company of...well anyone. she had been around luka, gleb and ruslan alone plenty of times, but some how never with anton. she supposed it was always a good time to get to know one another as they did work together. what little she knew of him she had overheard from others. he had served with general vaganov in great war and joined the red army. still the relative new officer after luka. he was charming, supposedly had gone out with a few of the office girls, but nothing serious or long standing. he and ruslan acted almost like brothers at moments with sparing and laughter shared, but he was still much of a mystery to her.
thoughtful and kind were some new adjectives she could use to describe him at least. "you and general vaganov served together, is that right?" she questioned gently as he looked to her still rather amused.
"same division, yes, during the war. we weren't what you'd call close, but i wouldn't have any other man leading a unit."
"the war sounds horrifying." liesel cringed, shoulders rising slightly to her ears before she wrapped her arms around herself. it wasn't as though things at home were any better though.
he hummed, dark eyes pensive for a moment before shrugging. "it was. but worth it, if it means russia can have a better future."
"where were you stationed after the war?" she asked turning her gaze up to him as she stepped to the side to let an elderly couple pass between them.
"believe it or not, moscow. that is how i met your brother."
"really?" she asked incredulously wondering why stefan had never thought to mention him before. her life in moscow was a quiet one as her brother let her work on her writing and publishing while still grieving for her father. now that she thought about it he didn't mention much of his division.
"for a while, i was in one of the lower district offices, but i got a promotion. then i was transferring into your brother's division when he was leaving for here. he recommended i transfer to leningrad once i got my feet wet in his old office."
"i see. just passing each other by then?"
"-seems like it."
the young woman turned thoughtful as she considered life in moscow to life in leningrad. very different cities. much of the same problems though. "are you glad you transferred?"
"to leningrad?"
"mhm." she hummed with a nod as he cracked a grin then reached up to lift off his hat to enjoy the cooler breeze cutting through at the moment.
"absolutely. " he stopped in the middle of the sidewalk, his boot scraping against stone as he looked to her. "are you glad to have transferred here?"
her face flushed as she realized the possible impertinence she had implied at. questioning a general. her superior. however any moments of fear were washed away as he smiled and dark eyes seemed rather warm. "its absolutely fine by me if you're not. believe me, we're outside the office. you don't have to regurgitate any patriotic drivel. moving isn't easy especially when you're happy somewhere else."
still flushed she managed a shy, rather embarrassed smile before considering her answer as they continued on their way. "it was hard at first." she admitted. "a new city to adjust to. starting a new job, but i'm glad to be here now. i do sometimes miss moscow, but i love the people i work with. you, ruslan, misha, luka and...general vaganov. it makes it worth it."
"good, good. i'm glad to hear that." he nodded having already noted how she had paused on one name and started to see why office rumors circulated the way they had. he stayed on the silent end of things, but somethings were rather obvious and others took a bit more time to see. now he could see the interest.
a soft sigh sounded from the secretary however before she quietly spoke. "although, i'll admit you're the first to ask me that."
"its nice to be asked." was the gentle remark earning him a smile from the other.
"it is." the small building was not one of the newer constructions, but it was a better one than most could afford. she was grateful that her brother let her stay with him as officers were granted better living quarters. she didn't want to consider what it would be like living with ten other families or the chaos that ensues with that. she took a step towards the walkway with him at her side before a soft gasp escaped at a sight.
"your sleeve is ripped-" it was a flashing glance. his button glimmered in the sunlight peeking through dark clouds, which drew her gaze to the tear in his sleeve. he frowned, lifting his arm to glance before sighing.
"right. i thought i had caught it on something earlier today. i'll have to find a seamstress i suppose-"
"don't be silly." liesel shook her head as she shifted her purse on her shoulder. "give it to me. i'll stitch it up tonight and bring it tomorrow. i stitch my brother's rips and tears its no problem to handle this one."
"are you sure?" he asked concerned about her taking up the task despite her head shaking at him and hand extended to take his uniform coat.
she beamed as he shrugged out of his jacket. "absolutely."
#// drabble#/ liesel ivanov / drabble#AAAND then he gets back to the office to tell stef where liese is and WHAM the orders go out to the three generals that all rumors#of the princess anastas.ia must be squashed on pain of DEATH#npc; anton baranov
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Drabbles: Liesel Journal Entries (1916)
1916 #1
I have been dropped into some horrific pseudo nightmare. One moment I'm reshelving books and the next I find myself in a familiar palace in St. Petersburg. In an unfamiliar room with Tristan's journal in my hands. I don't even remember having it in my hands before the *shift* as it were, but yet somehow there I was. And then there *he* was. I guess mama was right, your instincts are never wrong, because right I away I knew it wasn't Tristan. He was exactly like him, but it felt different.
He scared me.
Things got even more confusing with him taking the journal from me saying it was *his* journal which was also horrifying as he took his current replica and there were pages unwritten. Fifteen minutes into the past and I broke every code and rule there was to time travel. Worse still he changed the page from what it was supposed to be to something new and my book didn't change. It remained just the same. String theory and the multiverse theory came to mind immediately, but I couldn't explain that to him. Concepts that hadn't even begun to exist in this period which was also horrifying because it took a few days to even figure out the year. 1916. The majority of the modern world wasn't even invented. Sliced bread hasn't even been invented! I'm trapped in a nightmare time period with a ticking clock. His journal that he took with the history from my world already ticked him off to what was to come. The sorrow and angst of losing the love of his life (or whom I presume it to be) Olga Romanov. There's only one thing I'm glad of is that the journal didn't reveal anything, but his emotions and thoughts about her loss and very little about the time or manner of losing her.
Unfortunately he knows that I do. Already he's offered me the role of 'foreteller'. It felt so horribly cliché and what's worse I couldn't even say it was cliché because the term hasn't even been invented yet with the context of using it. All I could do is just stand there relieving every movie where the villain offers ultimate power and position in exchange for help or information. I know he'd be so offended if he knew I considered him a villain, and the truth is he isn't. Not with how much love and hurt he has for someone. Villains usually aren't capable of that and if the positions were reversed I might want or offer the same. But then again I don't want to know my future. That's terrifying....but if it meant not being able to save my family then maybe I would.
All I know is I can't possibly give him that information. There's too much at stake if I do. I can't change the future. That can't be what I'm here to do. I can't alter things and worse what if the fact that my book didn't change right away doesn't mean that it won't later? Reverberations through time aren't a science that even exists yet, maybe it just takes time and it could still change. Meaning my future could change. People won't be born or won't die or die too early or too late. So many things could change by me telling him something. I could very well erase my whole family line by accident.
No. I can't tell him. I just have to figure out a way to get home before I give too much away and before the coming storm. Why did it have to be Russia? In 1916? This is one of the WORST times to be in this country of all places. Although if I'm honest no where in the world would really be safe from what's coming. At least I was able to get Maria to give me a journal so I don't go out of my mind here and have something to talk to that won't shift the entirety of human history. I'll have to find someplace to hide this because I'm sure he's considered that I have a journal.
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1916 #12
The man is going to drive me insane I swear to GOD. He's pulling the guilt trip on me shoving these girls on me. Which to be fair it works horrifically well because all I can think about is what's going to happen and how they are going to die. I hate that I know exactly what happens. I hate that I know their favorite colors and sailors and lessons and dances. I hate it here. Tristan is horrifically like my Tristan, but still so different somehow. Its so confusing and just torturous. He's supposedly my Tristan's ancestor, but something tells me that isn't true.
I have a feeling of who he is, but if I do then that means....that means Mr. Stoker might have been on to something. Which is also terrifying. And humiliating. Its bad enough to know he has a legion of people at his disposal to keep tabs and interfere with-well anything and everything. Definitely not a person to tell about the future.
He keeps offering the role again and again and I keep telling him flat out 'no' which makes me wonder why he keeps trying. Maybe he's waiting out for me to snap under pressure or to snap as world events begin to occur as he knows from what little I've let slip will happen. He doesn't know what is happening, just that at some point in 1918 he loses Olga. I was glad to see that my guess as to which Romanov this 'supposed' ancestor was in love with was correct...and i also hate it seeing it happen in front of me.
I...my Tristan and I never leaned into whatever it was between us, but I love him. I don't think it was 'in love' like romantically or maybe it was and I just am too scared to admit it now that its too late. Either way it hurts to see him with her because my brain sometimes forgets to separate that he's not mine. Not my Tristan who I didn't realize I'd miss quite so much.
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1916 #20
Oh he's so getting pissed with me now. Well maybe not pissed per say but definitely annoyed. Has he never met anyone who has morals you can't buy? And if he hasn't then that's really horrifying on the statement of humanity, but what can I do about it. He still offers and I still refuse. He keeps dragging me into interacting with the Romanovs and attending their events, which are as glamourous as I've always imagined....which makes me think of the poverty beyond these gates. That somewhere out there my own ancestors are trying to survive.
That's the other tricky thing though about all of this. I only found his journal because I was looking for my family's history here in Russia, granted I was looking for a later time period like early 1930s, but questions could be answered if I looked maybe. Great Aunt Diana said that her grandfather fled Russia sometime between 1928 to 1930ish and that there was a journal, but I never found it and she never discussed why he did either. She didn't know. What's worse is I know that if I asked Tristan he'd give me the answers...but not without me giving him answers in return and worse still now he knows about my family. If he's feeling wicked he could eradicate my ancestry and I'd cease to exist. Papa and Stefan and Aunt Diana would cease to exist. I can't risk them just because I want to know where we came from. Although there is someone here in the palace I've glimpsed that's made me question something, but...its better not to even say it here. Just in the off chance that he does find this book too. God I hope not. It would be nice to just have something of my own that I don't have to worry about. Everything I say or do, movement, gesture and tone is being studied and analyzed by him. In a moment of laughing (i hadn't expected i could here) with the girls I almost flashed the peace sign which really isn't peace so much as victor which doesn't even come into play till the 40s thanks to...well again I probably shouldn't mention his name. I don't remember when he was born or if he's already existing. I should've studied more than just focusing on Russian history...
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1916 #35
Starling. Starling. Starling. I hate it and I hate that its cute. I miss my Tristan's way of calling me. I could never admit it to him that it felt like the best name for me. It felt like me. The real me. Not starling. I hate that we had a whole conversation about the nickname and then I felt like a dick after he explained. Granted though it was a horrible ride out in wintery weather and I was trapped in a cabin with him during the storm. Alone. It was terrifying. It was intimate and I almost kissed him.
Clearly, I'm desperately homesick. I miss my Tristan. Vampire or not I don't care at this point. This man is not my Tristan or at least not yet and probably won't ever be and I can't....I can't think about that because it takes every ounce of strength not to find some damn revolver. I want to go home so much. I miss my cats. I miss mcdonalds. I miss my family and my books. Its becoming unbearable especially being here of all places. Maybe I can handle my exile if I could just so somewhere and forget it all, but he won't let me leave.
Of course not. He'd be stupid to do it. I don't blame him in that regards, but also I do because what part of the fate of the world don't you get? What part of your responsibility to humanity and free will don't you get?? So here I am tucked in bed with you my only friend here trying to warm up and catch my breath after having spend that ordeal of a night with him. He's like some horrific tempting demon perfected to torture me. He's doing an excellent job.
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1916 #46
I have to fucking get out of here. The year is going by so quickly and its coming. I have to go because he's going to keep pressing on and on me about all of this. Plans are already pieced together and i’ve been studying routes and what not. I hate taking advantage of OTMA’s kindness with some of the baubles and jewelry they’ve given me but selling them once I’m out will fund me plenty to get on till I figure out a more stable means. I have to start relaxing into things as it seems to get trust established, go out more with outings because maybe I can get a glimpse of train schedules. That’s really the only means of travel right now in this period. What I’d give to hop a plane.
Thankfully the staff is just as uncomfortable with Tristan as I am and seem more than willing to answer questions and maybe even help me with my escape. We’ll see how things go, but for now plotting and planning. Where to go though is the other consideration with the upcoming events that will mark the world forever. They call it the Great War. These poor people have no clue that no one will ever remember this current war as the Great War. Just the first.
These poor girls are exhausted working in the hospitals. Poor Olga literally had a mental breakdown and thankfully it’s kept Tristan at bay with him hovering over her care. Thank god. And also...it makes me so horribly sad for them both. For everyone. I just have to get out of this area if I cannot get out of this period. Lost to time was something I never thought possible, but here I am. Exile is the only place for me and I think I know just the place.....
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drabble: Nina Ivanov in Po.T.O
"but mama-"
"its time for us to go now, ma cher."
"-but mama."
it was then that liesel knew there would be no peace under her roof if she didn't heed the small girl's plea. her feet were aching, back sore and she was quite ready for supper and to retire for the evening now that the work was done. mostly. there was a stack of costumes in need of mending on her hip and yet still her child begged for a few more minutes to stay in the opera auditorium. in utter fairness she couldn't blame nina for the desire because she in many ways wanted to linger, but it was late, she was tired and they didn't belong there at that hour. the last thing she wanted was for the managers to think she stole from the establishment with the late hours and lack of overseer. however it was always difficult to argue with nina when she became set on something. tonight's something was a few more lingering minutes.
"alright. i am going to walk very slowly towards the side door and you can run to catch up, but that is all. we'll be back tomorrow to discuss with Monsieur François about violin lessons." something she knew might be futile, but she had to at least try for nina's sake as she had seen how her little one stared in a frozen rapture watching him play.
even still she couldn't deny the swell of warmth at seeing her daughter light up at the prospect before nodding with a 'yes mama' before darting up the rows of auditorium seating with uncontained excitement. perhaps she should just be happy that nina found delight in every new and unexpected thing with an incredible amount of bravery she could only assume was the sole inheritance from her father. because from the moment liesel had begun work at the opera garnier little nina ivanov was enchanted with the building and more so of the phantom that reportedly haunted it. she had ran into her mother's legs with breathless excitement from what the ballet rats had told her and all her mother had to tell her was to be respectful of spirits. liesel for as much as she did believe in spirits didn't believe it was actually haunted and assumed the theater staff was odd in that it typical for people of their work. however it didn't take long of working there to learn that the opera was fundamentally eccentric in every way and her daughter was thrilled by it at every turn; more than once did liesel find nina chattering to the open air.
"and who are you talking to?" she'd ask little nina who just smiled and sigh.
"monsieur le fantome, mama."
she could only entertain her little fantasy of course. she wouldn't be the one to deny her daughter the imagination of a friend in this rumor. "what had he to say today?"
"nothing. he never speaks to me." nina's shoulders would slump slightly before she chirped up again with surprising confidence. "perhaps he'll show himself again soon. the girls in the ballet said he hasn't been seen in quite sometime."
liesel could only laugh softly at the notion with a small smile. "perhaps he is an old ghost, ma cherie. supposedly he's as old as the building. he might tire with all these appearances. perhaps he's taken some days away for rest?"
"perhaps." nina murmured now lost in thought staring up at the boxes where the wealthy patrons would watch performances from in their glitter and splendor. sometimes liesel feared that she would damage her dear little girl by letting her spend her days in the opera amongst all the grandeur she could not herself offer her. but what else was she to do with the girl, but take her with her to work? the worry still lingered however as she took in the dreamy look in her daughter's eyes.
"remember your manners, mon lapin. even the spirits deserve respect. hello, goodbye and please & thank you. hm?" she gently nudged the distracted girl to draw her back from her imaginings which succeeded in its purpose as nina giggled quietly then nodded before running off. even now as liesel stood at the edge of the auditorium at the close of day as nina scampered up the aisle, stopping at the orchestra pit before sweeping into a curtsey, that she didn't know how her daughter had learned, before promptly addressing the open air in her soft voice now having forgotten her mother entirely.
"monsieur fantome?" was the soft sweet curious voice sounding out. "mama and i must go now. adieu. i shall leave my gift here on the seat for you, monsieur. it is my favorite book and i think you might like it as well...."
#/ nina ivanov / aesthetics#// drabble#nina treating the OG like an imaginary friend? more likely than u think
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DRABBLE: an office with a view
@pcachdrunk tagging u bc AGAIN thIS is ur fault and i am not to blame for the ember u turned into a fire.
He was sure he was this close to finding clumps of hair in the bathtub with his stress levels and blood pressure climbing with every day's new trouble. The rumors of a surviving princess to quell, the in-house competition for the deputy commissioner's seat amongst all the other issues at hand (bread lines, riots, and of course riots IN the bread lines) in their fair Leningrad. Commissioner Kozlov was going to leave his position soon. they all knew it. he was getting older, tired and impatient with the dealings of the bustling lively city. a war hero and revolutionary at the forefront it was time he retired. now the question was whether gorlinsky would promote one of his own officers or bring in some muskovite to take the lead of the department.
there were many men in the office who could fill the role, but he knew who the competition was. himself, stefan ivanov and anton baranov.
he didn't particularly like his odds.
he knew he was a strong contender. his father had served with gorlinsky and had known him since he was a lanky teen, though it didn't help much as he knew the man didn't care for him. still he was the most decorated of the triumvirate and had been stationed at the frontlines during the great war and had returned home to liberate his country from imperial rule. an event that still stole precious nights worth of sleep that kept him up with the empty reassurances that it was for the best. he knew he had the respect of the office because he always showed them respect in turn, trusting their skills and abilities as he saw them but-
-but there was stefan ivanov.
much like him in many ways. a general in his own right. served in the war without as many accolades, but he received a different sort of respect. a near reverence with the officers and other workers in the office that seemed something more stifling. he couldn't remember ever seeing the man laugh, but there were times that he caught stefan smile in his own stoic way. however it was known that he and gorlinsky skated one another on thin ice as the two had some pre-established loathing before ivanov was transferred to the leningrad division. his chances at it were low, but they were still there. where stefan ivanov lacked in personality he made up for it with a perfectionism that made his own demand for detail pale in comparison. ivanov was always ahead of schedule and prepared for near anything that could go wrong.
and then lastly there was the newest of them. anton baranov.
he had what both he and stefan lacked. charm. popularity and certain lighthearted energy that hadn't been squashed in the revolution. he too had served in the war though he hadn't been at the front the way he and ivanov had or commanded units of men into the foray as he did. still there was a certain quality to this muskovite transfer that drew people to his electric personality that gleb knew if anton had requested something of anyone in the office that they'd all do so eagerly for him. even gorlinsky had seemingly fallen for baranov's ease and charm as he seemed to be the favorite. nepotism was an unfortunate factor in politics even in their new regime. which was why he found every opportunity to be helpful, to stay ahead of cases and to continue to find ways to stand out.
"any word from gorlinsky?" gleb asked his secretary. a brunette young woman with forest green eyes and a soft smile.
there were moments he doubted he could trust her. elisabeth ivanov, liesel to everyone in the office, and the sister to his right hand and competition, stefan ivanov. but if he was honest he knew she had never failed him and that part of the reason he was as solid a choice for the role was that she kept pace with him in his endeavors. he had asked her once if she hoped her brother got the commissioner's seat some weeks ago and he was stunned by the honest response.
"i'm not sure that's where he belongs." the steam from the tea softening her neat hairdo as pieces slipped into a soft curl near her eyes. he felt his stomach twist for a moment, unsure if it was her words or that look that made him anxious. either way he managed a nod in response before dismissing her to catch up on other work he had already assigned to her.
but now she just offered him an apologetic smile and sad shake of her head. "nothing, but i heard from a friend that works in his building that he's been locked in his office for hours this morning. they think he'll make his decision sometime today."
his fingers combed through his hair, sweeping it back as an exhausted sigh released and he nodded quietly at the news. by this afternoon someone would be named the next deputy commissioner once kozolov finished his term and he couldn't be sure it was going to be him. he could feel the excitement and gossip in the office as rumors swirled and bets were taken on who would be up for the role. he knew there was a betting pool because he was offered a chance to join in on it by his only real friend in the office, but it wasn't surprising if anyone knew ruslan essen. brash, loud and dedicated he found himself counting his friends and realizing it only took one hand to do so.
"notify me the second you hear of any other news." was the quiet request as she nodded then in an unexpected gesture put her hand on his arm.
"you'll be the first to know. i promise." she squeezed his arm ever so briefly before sweeping out of the area to do just that. search and listen for any information.
which left him to do what he always did best. work. throw himself headlong into his work sorting through paperwork, overseeing orders, covering another officer's beat to stretch anxious limbs before returning to a hot cup of tea brough by liesel as he settled in for more paperwork. he never thought that in his role here in leningrad that he'd have so many papers to sort through, but that was the role thus far. he tried to remind himself that he might not want the commissioner's seat after all. it would mean more paperwork. less being amongst the other officers. it meant separation and loneliness as the division leader. it meant possibly never seeing her again. the frightened little street sweeper. he had walked several shifts since he last saw her, but hadn't glimpsed the girl with the broom again. if he became deputy commissioner he'd probably never walk a beat again unless he insisted on it and by then there were bigger issues to focus on than his desire to meet her again. still he couldn't shake the strange tightness in his chest at the memory of her. though he supposed it was for the best that he focused on what he could have rather than what he could lose like-
Liesel quickly rushed into his corner of workspace, flushed and shaking before meeting his eyes. immediately he rose from his seat, unthinkingly taking her arm to tug her into a back hallway that was thankfully empty. she had an envelope held in both hands extended to him which he took carefully from her.
"i'll let you read it while i step out and get some tea." she said quietly turning to leave once the envelope was in his hand, but he reached to hold her wrist.
"no. please." he said throat tight and dry. "just stay. you might as well know with me. you can be the first to congratulate your brother."
words he didn't expect echoed softy from her. "gorlinsky is a fool if he put anyone in that position other than you."
"i suppose its time we find that out then-" he sighed then braved tearing open the envelope to read the note that had been signed & written by gorlinsky's hand. words were read and reread again and again from top to bottom as he blinked in disbelief. dark eyes lifted from the words to liesel's worried eyes while he croaked out the words in shaky breathless relief. "i've been awarded the seat."
her face lit up in delight as he continued laugh in utter disbelief, one hand rubbing his face as he tried to let the relief wash over him. "you were?! congratulations-!"
it was a strange moment as the rush of emotions swarmed him. relief. happiness. responsibility. sobriety and hope. something like pride because his hard work had been vindicated. he wondered if he had in some way made his father proud, but something about that thought made his stomach turn with a wave of nausea and instead he pushed that thought away to focus on the good. he had gotten the promotion. why had he gotten the promotion he wondered, but he knew he could think on that later. right now with the paper in his hand did he reach out to take liesel's for a moment sharing in their relief as a thought crossed his mind.
"i'll be requesting that you stay on as my personal secretary. will that be alright with you?"
he wasn't expecting the tears in her eyes as she nodded in response happily replying. "i'd be honored, deputy commissioner vaganov."
he laughed. "that will take some getting used to hearing." liesel only shook her head at him before gently pulling her hands from his as he realized that he was still holding on. quickly he set about straightening his uniform as his next thoughts followed with the announcement. "i suppose i should let the others know."
the brunette smiled as delight glimmered in jade eyes. "ruslan will be so pleased that he won the bet."
"hm, maybe we can delay the news a little bit then. ruslan pleased is a dangerous thing." their laughter mingled in the empty hallway as the office chatter in the distance continued on for the anxious announcement of their future commissioner.
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Drabble: Last letter
@walkingshcdow
Author's note: ohh you didn't think i just sent you the idea of the letter and didn't write it out did you? I do not suggest gut wrenching ideas without backing it up.
xx/xx/xxxx
My Dearest, Finn
I don't know why exactly I'm writing this letter to you. We haven't written letters to each other in quite some time. Cars, texts and video calls kind of eliminated the importance of letter writing and both our lives got so busy that the time to do it just dissolved. I'm sitting in my apartment above the shop, yes, i know- I shouldn't have made the climb up the stairs since I have a temporary place till I should be able to do so again after the baby is born. I just wanted to come home for a little bit as me and while my apartment is just mine before this little person is here and the whole world changes. Its selfish I know, but life as we know it will be gone soon.
That's what everyone says.
That the world shifts and nothing is ever the same again. Its scary and exciting and maybe a little sad. I will never be quite the same me and neither will anyone else in our lives really. Priorities and interests will shift and change or even disappear, but we'll have someone new to love and I think that's worth it all. I'm so excited for him or her. Being a mother is kind of terrifying in a thrilling way. I'm worried about whether I'll be a good mum and wonder how on earth my mother did it with Stefan and me. Parenting just seems so daunting...especially without a boyfriend or husband there, but I have you and Stefan. I can't think of better men to be in my baby's life. Knowing you both you're going to spoil him/her rotten. Believe me, I'm fully aware of whom I'll contending with in regards to adoring my baby and I'm so terribly grateful for it.
I don't know what I'd do without you in my life. I don't think I'd be me without you, Finn. Growing up you always just seemed so sure of everything. And I mean everything. Even of me, when I surely didn't feel the same about myself. Sometimes I still don't, but there you are with a well timed text like you just knew. I don't know how you know, but I'm glad you do. I guess the point of this letter is just me wanting tell you that I absolutely adore and love you (I always will) and I'm so glad you're going to be with me with this next chapter in my life. He or she is going to have the best godfather/ uncle that anyone could ever ask for and there's no one I trust more than you with this baby.
So I expect you there at their first riding lesson, ballet class and violin recital and every birthday. For our little family traditions to continue with summers at Erskine so my mum and Edith and spoil this child horrifically while we make our escape for the stables like we're still thirteen and just worried about what we'd do the rest of the summer. He or she (oh i'm so wishing i could get you to tell me the gender so I don't have to keep writing he/she) stepping on your feet like I did all those years at those horrible dance lessons Edith had us take. This child is going to be just as blessed as I am to have you in our lives and I just wanted you to know that and to know that I'm utterly and eternally grateful for everything you've done for me. It was never unseen or unappreciated. You're my best and dearest friend that the word friend or brother doesn't seem to have enough meaning for it.
So I'm closing this letter with this; I love you Michael Finnegan and I cannot wait to see you being the amazing godfather I know you're going to be. I need to go pack my hospital bag and nap now. I'll be seeing you soon though.
All my love, Liesel Ivanov
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So I wrote a POV drabble a while back on an old blog and after revisiting it....I have GOT to rewrite it. And I’ve been on my anastasia kick again so...here’s the original one’s link and below the cut is the new one!
Drabble: POV Liesel; Fill out a new report!
Send me a scene that happened in canon and I’ll write in detail how my muse felt in it!
It never was a good morning when suspects were brought in for questioning and it never put any officer in a good mood when they had to interview the prostitutes. That is unless they were behind closed locked doors as the radio was turned up louder to muffle the obvious sounds going on as they were ‘interrogated’. She was just glad that the gaggle that came in with their alleged information came to one of the few men in the office who didn’t participate in those sorts of interviews. There was a reason why Gleb Vaganov was lined up to be the next deputy commissioner and in a world filled with so few men of their word, he was the exception. A man of honor and pride and duty to his country. Working with him always made her feel proud of her position and proud of the strides their country was making.
She wondered more often than not at her desk just how far he’d rise through the ranks. He couldn’t be bound to this office for long she was sure. His dedication to his work, pride in his country and sharp stature would win him step after step in the bureaucracy more likely. The only other person fast on his heels was her brother, but she knew he didn’t care for the seat personally and had other goals in mind than achieving deputy commissioner. Both men she admired and unfortunately knew the entire office of secretaries and file girls did too.
It wasn’t hard to over hear the whispers and giggles of the women around the office about either of the men. Objectively she knew her brother was handsome, but Gleb….she knew the reason why they swooned and plotted and attempted to get his attention. Sometimes she even entertained the idea of some small kind of flirtation, but sheer respect somehow managed to get in the way. Be it her anxiety or respect, a small voice always stopped her and scolded her. He was a man with a goal and a purpose, but more than that he trusted her as his secretary. How could she betray that by giving in to silly feelings she was sure he wouldn’t notice or return.
Love has no place in a revolution or the office. Unfortunately, the group of prostitutes brought information on an already tiresome and sore topic regarding the revolution that burned through the office as of late.
“Another rumor on the street!” Murmured Alina as she passed by with a stack of files only to be elbowed by Sofia, her dark hair tucked into a braid swinging at her back as her head shook. “Another rumor to attend. Time to fill out a new report.”
“The rumors never end!’ Was the exhausted huff of her superior Private Bazhenov with her greying hair in a neat tidy bun as she passed by her. “As if he doesn’t have better matters to deal with than rumors of a princess.”
Galina swept by in flourish almost grinning as she looked to Liesel then gestured to the oncoming group passing by. “Another spy betrays a friend!” To which Liesel could only sigh at the delight taken at her comrades for more gossip and excitement. Not that she could blame them. The silly rumors was the whispered hot topic of the office even if it was tiresome. She did what she could to try and squash the talk but usually she was the one questioned the most about it considering her superior officer was next in line for promotion.
Olive eyes watched the sharp stern figure cut through the office workers as the group of women scurried after him while he explained the seriousness of the information they had brought. She wasn’t sure on whether they could be trusted concerning information, but she knew he was right. Gleb was almost never wrong.
“Anything concerning the Romanovs, even the most preposterous rumor, we take very seriously.” His brow furrowed slightly as hands gestured broadly before following onwards to his office while the hissing words of one of the girls echoed out as the door began to slowly swing towards closing, but didn’t quite catch.
“I told you-! She’s about as much of a Romanov as I am.”
Features cringed at the words before she moved on towards her desk to get the necessary paperwork that was sure to follow with the information given. However truthful that information that might be. She didn’t understand why the rumors continued to persist the way they did. Let the past die and let those people be put to rest. For all the horrors that came from their reign she knew they were just as much people as the rest of them. Everyone needed to be left in peace eventually-
The sharp sound of the slap on wood startled her as the pen slipped from her fingers and the sound of the tea kettle clattering on the table echoed sharply around them from Misha’s own startle. Deathly silence filled the office as everyone stopped to listen, straining for the low murmured words that were surely being exchanged in the half closed room. Breath was held still before the slightest noise of a chair being slid back managed to slip through cueing her to hurry and finish gathering her paperwork. To which she was right as seconds later she watched the girls flee from the room like a creature was at their heels rather than the mild mannered general that followed after.
Feet carried her closer to him with the paperwork tucked into her arms as she caught him murmuring tiredly to himself then nodding towards the Lieutenant Mikhailov standing nearby. She hadn’t noticed when he had come in, but she was sure he was worried concerning one of the girls that had swept in and out with the group. “Another rumor on the street, another girl to apprehend. One more pretender who no longer plays pretend.” Gleb sighed shaking his head before noticing the silent and still office watching him. There was a brief moment where his dark eyes caught hers and she could’ve sworn she had seen the weariness in his features soften slightly as he nodded to her gently before turning to the rest of the office.
“FILL OUT A NEW REPORT-!”
The snap that followed triggered the office back into their daily work scrambling about to fill out orders, sort through paperwork and follow up on leads. His arm swept out to hand her the notes he had taken on his meeting with the girls for her to interpret into a new report. Startling slightly at the raised voice she quickly hurried to take the extended notebook, catching his eye and silently nodding that she’d handle the rest. Tucking it to her chest she moved to quickly start on the new work but stopped to glance back to him in the hall and catch the slightest fall of features again.
Tiredness or annoyance, she wondered, but still he carried on with his work, shoulders set back straight, head level and features impassive as though the three women hadn’t even walked in. He worked the hardest of the officers in the division, her brother included, and there was no question about who would be leading the office in the sometime future. It was all just a matter of time. She just wondered how much could those shoulders of his bear and whether he could bear it alone. Deputy Commissioner was a high and lonely place to be and she hoped he’d be ready to handle what came with the new office and position. Thoughts flickered to her own family, her uncle’s weight and regret for failure of duty and then her brother now as he swept through his work in an attempt to smooth and progress anything that slipped Gleb’s gaze. Very little did. However, she knew in the meantime the rumors of these fake Anastasias running about kept him busy and more frustrated than before.
One rumor would be squashed and another would begin.
“Misha, finish setting the tea please.” She murmured with a soft hand on the young girl’s still trembling shoulder as Misha fumbled about the kitchenette still reeling from the shouted order. “Its fine. I’ll bring him his tea, just get the hot water going and go take a seat. I have some dried fruit in my desk if you want a bit to settle your nerves. I need to go type up these papers.”
The sheer relief in the young woman’s features were palpable as she nodded then quickly moved about to do as she was asked while Liesel began to walk towards the row of typewriters set up with different women who were already gossiping about what occurred. Head shook at the nonsense before taking her own seat to handle the new report, sitting still for a moment to catch her breath and leave her wondering if the general ever had a moment to himself where he wasn’t serving his country either.
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drabble: in which liesel gets an inheritance from her late great-aunt
The Past: December 1927
“Come with me, Elisabeth. I can’t leave you here with them-!” She stared up to the determined fearful eyes of her uncle and shook her head. Glancing to the door for a moment she looked to him again and took his hands in hers.
“Stefan is protecting me, but there’s only so much he can do. And so the least I can do is get rid of any evidence and warn you.” Her hands were engulfed with his calloused scarred hands as he squeezed tighter and heavy breaths echoed in the room. “I don’t want to lose you, Uncle Sasha. So you need to take treasure and get out of Russia. Forever.”
“ I would never see you again and your parents would never forgive me if I did-”
“They would if they knew it was to keep me safe. I have Stefan and I have you, but only if you leave and take these with you. I have faith in my God and in my brother. Have some faith in us.” Her hand pulled gently from his and instead pressed a suitcase into it laden with diamond encrusted tiaras, necklaces and gold. Tears streamed down soft features as she tried to take in the last image of her uncle’s features in an attempt to imprint them into her memory like a photograph. The suitcase dropped to the floor as Alexsander pulled his niece into his arms one last time before remarking on how proud her parents would be and how proud he was before stepping from the apartment and disappearing from her life one final time.
------------------Ninety-Two years Later------------------
The large leather backed chair seemed to swallow the petite young woman as she sat alone in the wood paneled room. Luxury coated every inch of the space from the massive wood desk to the plush throw rugs and elegant art pieces on the walls. A soft smile and murmur of thanks was offered to the suited figure leaving the large safety deposit box atop the velvet mat to shield the wood from damage. With the door softly clicking shut and she was left alone she wondered how her great-aunt diana had felt when she had passed. Did she feel alone? Did she have regrets? Did she live the life she had wanted?
As a little girl she used to love to sit beside her on the couch and listen to her stories, adored the soft gentle pat on her head or knee. Playing dress up with her costume jewelry or putting on a pretty dress. She remembered walking through the garden, holding her hand as her aunt told her old family stories about her aunts and uncles and her grandfather fleeing Russia to start a new life. It all sounded so fantastical- so hard to believe as anything other than family lore and storytelling, but she knew somewhere deep down that it was real. Those ancestors had to be real because her aunt was real and now her great aunt was gone. Her fingers gently touched the cold metal box containing what her great aunt had left to her.
She knew it wouldn’t be what she really wanted. Just one more afternoon of tea with her to hear the stories. See her aging hands pouring tea as she wove the history in a new light.��
But she knew those hands wouldn’t be seen again and she knew that the inheritance left to her that meant the most was those stories carried through the years. So carefully she lifted the lid to the box to see what documents and affects had been entrusted to the Swiss bank that her aunt left to her. The lid clattered shut as she jumped up and back from the overwhelming leather seat.
Trembling hand pressed over her heart to slow the racing beat momentarily before she dared lift the lid again and take in the glittering jewelry and tiara. Choking for breath for a moment she tried to make sense of the treasures as her eye caught sight of a rolled parchment tucked along the side. Fingers reach for the paper rather than touch the jewelry while she looked to the door still waiting for someone to barge in and say she had gotten the wrong box. Carefully she unrolled the paper and tried to read the writing then moments later dropped that paper back into the box with horrified breath. She knew that signature and the embossing with the double eagle crest.
“This can’t be real-” Shaking breath followed as she read through the letter carefully once again then paused at the other name listed. Aleksander Daniilovich Ivanov. She didn’t know that name. She didn’t know how her great-aunt came to have this letter from the last tsar of russia who entrusted these treasures to aleksander ivanov, but she knew she’d find out one way or another. Until then she needed to figure out what she was supposed to do with the russian crown jewels in the meanwhile...
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