Chapter 4
The next day, the sun dawned bright and clear as Melody boarded the ship that would take her to Russia and the Romanov's summer palace. The voyage began swiftly and in no time the waves were lapping along the side of the ship. Melody would lean against the railing and watch the waves roll into the horizon as the sun set in the evening. Most days she would promenade along deck, until it was meal time or late in the day.
One evening, Alexander sought her out in an attempt to lessen her worries.
"Hello Maria, I just wondered how you were doing and if you had any questions or concerns."
"Oh hello Alexander. Well yeah I am a little worried that your family might not like me. I know it probably seems silly..." Melody said shyly.
"Oh I think they'll like you well enough. Our father might seem a little rough around the edges, but he can be quite soft when he wants to be. Our mother is kind, though a bit delicate and sometimes some of our younger siblings can be a bit boisterous, but Nixa and I could always take care of them, so you have nothing to worry about. You'll make Nixa a wonderful wife." Alexander reassured her.
"That's good, since I was a bit concerned. I hope all goes well, because somehow I have a feeling..." Melody said.
"Ah it's just nerves. Come on and let's see if we can see the shore yet." Alexander said in a friendly fashion.
"Okay let's see what we can see." Melody said as she took his arm and strolled to the side of the deck.
As they watched the shoreline in silence, Melody suddenly interrupted their thoughts and asked.
"Will you be able to introduce me to your parents and show me around?"
"I'll introduce you, although I was under the impression that you had already met my father and brother...But still I'll introduce you to our family. After that though, I have a campaign I must attend to, so I'll be gone for awhile." Alexander explained.
"Oh that's too bad, but thank you for what you can do." Melody answered, as she looked toward the horizon as the land came into view.