Alexei scowled, putting the finishing touches on his jacket. The scowl was quickly wiped away, however when the small whirlwind that was Baba, came flying into the room. He wanted to say something to this formiddable woman, but two things kept him quiet. One, this woman had a major hand in raising him, and he was certain she would box his ears if he interrupted her. And two, even if he wanted to comment on one thing, she was off to the next topic before his brain could process it. And that fact had him stunned into silence. It wasn't until she was gone that he shook his head, as if to shake off a glancing blow.<br/><br/>"Christ, she got all that out in one breath," he remarked, the awe in his voice clear. Looking up at his old friend, his blue eyes were still wide with surprise. "Are you sure I still can't interest you in a campaign away from home?" he spared a glance toward the closed door. "Far *far* away from home?"<br/>He already knew what Nikolai's answer would be, but he had to ask. Being married to a tiny tornado of Baba's calibre....his friend was either very patient, or a complete glutton for punishment. He picked up the small bite provided by the bane of his existance. There was no point in meeting his bride on an empty stomach. Finishing the last bites, he turned to look at himself in the mirror, the scowl returning to his face. He looked like one of those preening peacocks that tried to bend Pavel's ear constantly. He hated those men. "Well, I suppose it's time." He commented, giving a resigned sigh. "I really *don't* want to be here should she return." Leading the way out of the rooms, he didn't need to look back to know Nikolai was following. Pavel probably assigned him to be his shadow until the vows were exchanged.<br/><br/>Exiting the palace, he found the Czar and Czarina standing out front waiting for him. Leaning down, he kissed Liz's cheek, before shooting Pavel a glare.<br/><br/>"I know you're still cross, Alexei," Pavel explained, his voice contrite. "And no matter how long it takes, I want you to know, I still need you," he admitted, breathing a sigh of relief when he saw the anger in Alexei's eyes lessen.<br/><br/>"I know, Pav," He looked at Liz, not able to fault his cousin for his decision. Elizabeth Romanov was a vital part of both of their lives. She was the other half of his kinsman's soul. "Even though I feel as if I'm the one paying the price, if it means we get to keep our Liz, I'd say it's more than worth it."