I live. Sorry for the length. I feel like I needed to post what I had rather than wait.

VIENNA, AUSTRIA-HUNGARY, FEBRUARY 17, 1922

Volger was frantic, and that was saying something. Normally, he didn't display that sort of behavior that one would associate with being panicked or bothered. Even now, he didn't outwardly display his feelings; they would serve no purpose.

He was frantic for anther reasons entirely- Alek was nowhere to be found.

Of course, he was the only one who 'knew' about him 'missing'. It was a feeling, blooming in his chest. The Boy-Emperor was not in any of his usual places. The library was empty, and so were his private rooms. The wildcount could not ask any of the servants if they had seen him- he could not even outwardly display any outward signs of discontent.

Alek's willful behavior had not reared its ugly head for quite some time. And generally, even when it did, things ended for the better. He supposed it gave more credit to showing that Alek was not a puppet of any sort. He toed the line being disagreeing his ministers enough to give credit to his strength but respected them enough to keep appearances. Volger gladly allowed it, but now, when it was directed at him (or so he assumed) he found he disliked it.

Sighing, he took a seat on one of the various chairs that lined the hallway. There was a nice enough view of the gardens. Volger could not ignore the slight complaint his knees made as he sat. He was getting older, he could not deny it. He supposed he should worry about what would happen to Alek when he died, hopefully many, many years in the future. Yet, somehow, despite himself, he felt an odd sort of confidence in Alek and the potential in his reign. As of late, much had been falling in place. Even Sharp had stepped back a little bit- which managed to disconcert him rather than delight.

Volger frowned suddenly. That should have pleased him, everything considered. He had found himself with more respect for her as of late. Having gotten what he wanted, though, he found himself almost getting... worried. When was the last time he had seen her go through the halls, laughing, lightening up the place as she passed for a male and flying in the face of decorum. He could (would) not admit it to himself, but perhaps there was a flicker of something close to paternal affection for the girl.

No matter. Back to the task at hand- finding Alek for the meeting he had in half an hour.