Saint Mark
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Posts posted by Saint Mark
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The bus ride back to the hotel was quiet. It was not the same quiet of dejection that had accompanied them into the locker room, however, but now one of determination.
H&J had walloped them; in part because of their own excellent play, but also because Saint Mark hadn't played anywhere near their best.
Egleston had taken the team to task when they first left the field, excoriating them for being too sure of themselves.Waterman had taken a different approach. He understood that the match itself had been all the censure that was required. Now they needed to be re-directed and fortified. He pointed out their errors and where they could have done better, but he also made it clear that these were easily remedied. Their skills were not the problem. The missing ingredient in this match had been concentration. The win can not be taken as granted. They are not out of this. Victory can still be theirs, if they work for it!
Later, a three-hour strategy session had given them much to consider.
- Zoran, United Adaikes and Giovanniland
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3
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Tristan and Hunter balanced four pints each as they made their way to where the team was seated. In Saint Mark cricket, it was the traditional task of the youngest player to serve the others during any celebration. With birthdays on the same day, it was their luck to always have help from the other. The coach had declared they'd have their after match meeting in The Golden Dragon to celebrate making it to the Super 8. As they were seated, Coach Waterman stood to face the happy cohort.
"Fantastic! Of course my first praise has to go to Czarneki on his century ... bravo! Maybe you should have shoulder surgery every year! It wasn't all Czarneki, though. This is the most aggressive I've seen this team all season! Evard, that cow-corner hoick was splendid! Katie ... nice back-of-point slice! Tristan, we should start calling you the Road-Runner! Even our bowling was more aggressive. Your Doosra really caught the batsman off guard, Warren! This is where we want to be at this point in the tournament ... on the upswing. It'll get tougher from here, of course, but as long as we stay focused, I have no doubt we can go all the way."
Raising his glass, he continued. "A toast to our win and to advancing to the Super 8!"
The team cheered as they too raised their pints.
- Zoran, United Adaikes and Giovanniland
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3
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"Good show, team! This is what I knew you could do!"
Coach Waterman beamed at his team who were once again assembled in the locker room.
"Your defensive strategy was well-planned and well-executed, Captain. I loved the way everyone attacked each batsman right away and early in the match, before they could get comfortable. It really kept the pressure on. Your long barrier was just what we needed at the moment, Gomez! Nice job! Hunter, you were much more focused today. There was very little that got away from you. Hal, you seemed to be more into your rhythm."
"Offensively, we played well too. It was smart play, not just slapping at anything that comes along. Czarneki, that back foot defense was perfect. Did everyone see how he made sure to get back on his crease and meet the ball on top of its bounce? He maintained control the whole time. Well done!"
"This is the type of play we need to continue to go all the way!"
On the way back to the bus, Tristan caught up with Lucy, but just as he was about to address her, Katie ran up and hugged her.
"We're doing it, Lucky Lucy! We're taking our cricket to the world and showing them what Saint Mark can do!"Lucy laughed. "We've got a long way to go yet. It's too early to celebrate. Do you want to jinx us?"
"We can't be jinxed with you on our team, Lucy," gushed Tristan, who blushed and turned to climb onto the bus.
Katie and Lucy looked at each other and laughed.
- Zoran, Larxia and United Adaikes
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3
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Coach Waterman paced in front of his assembled team.
"A draw isn't a bad first showing ... but it isn't good either. We can't rely on our offense to do everything. Czarnecki's four consecutive sixes followed by twos four were amazing, especially given his recent shoulder issues. Katie, your batting was so well-placed, you'd think you were using telekinesis. Tristan, nice read on when to run.
Our fielding was solid, but a little slower than what I know we can do. That cost us. Hunter, you missed a couple of easy catches, but I know you feel badly enough about it. It's ok. This is your first big tournament. You're young and nervous. You'll settle in. Lucy, I don't know how you do it. Your bowling isn't particularly fast, but more often than not you fool the batters. They seem to lose focus facing you. Hal, sometimes I feel you were over thinking your pitches. Just focus on getting into your rhythm. Your googly was terrific, though! Very well-played!
All-in-all, it was a good match. We're warming up. We're a great team. I know we'll get there!"
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Howard Gresham, Private Secretary to Prince Marcarius, flipped through the papers inside the burgundy leather portfolio.
"The RAF Gryphon has been prepared and will take Your Serene Highness to New Larxia two days before the end of the tournament. His Majesty, King Maddy IV, has invited the leaders of the participating nations to join him in his box for the finals and we have accepted.""Very good, Howard," replied the prince. "Please extend an invitation to King Maddy to join me for tea in my suite there the day before the finals."
"Yes, sir."
"Our team looked quite sharp in their whites and blue blazers at the Opening Ceremony. I do hope we put on a good show. As you know, cricket has been played in Saint Mark since its invention. There are scions of three Electors on the team, including my nephew Hunter. Let's toast for luck, Howard!" Prince Marcarius raised his tea cup and smiled, as Gresham bowed his head.
"Yes, sir."
Meanwhile in New Larxia, the team was quiet but relaxed on the luxury bus that was taking them from the Kings Circle Stadium to the airport where they would board their plane to La Marina. The Opening Ceremony had just ended.
Conrad Egleston, the team Captain, and Rudolph Waterman, the coach, were in conversation about strategy.
Walter Czarneki, the second oldest on the team and one of the best batsmen in the league, wondered if this first international tournament might be his last.
The rest of the team contemplated the upcoming games and the strange country in which they would take place.
Tristan contemplated Lucy.
- Zoran, United Adaikes, embubbleblue and 1 other
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4
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Royal Cricket Team
of
Saint Mark
Number Age Batting Player 1 34 R Conrad Egleston (C) 2 24 R Milton Granger (WK) 33 19 L Hunter Markson (WK) 22 26 R Philip Entbourne 7 32 R Hal Oberman 17 28 R George Morely 19 28 L Katherine Shelby 20 27 R Gregor Simkovich 24 21 R Evard Emberfel 13 23 R Lucy Evaristo 5 30 R Warren Pierce 21 29 L Hugh Spencer 11 32 R Walter Czarneki 77 19 R Tristan Heuvels 18 25 R Gomez Trullior Coach: Rudolph Waterman
Injure my players: yes
Dismiss batmen: yes
Deliberate unfair play: no
Godmod injuries: no
Godmod scoring: no
Godmod other events: noStyle Mod +3.0
- United Adaikes and Zoran
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2
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The Holy Principality of Saint Mark will participate in the T20 World Cup.
https://www.nationstates.net/nation=the_holy_principality_of_saint_mark
- United Adaikes and Zoran
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2
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Lord Eastmarch, back in the study of his cliffside manor house in Saint Mark, closed the connection on his secure phone and looked over to where His Serene Highness sat in a leather wingback chair.
I informed General Waholi of our desire to help the Monarchists take advantage of their momentum, sir. Aside from direct intervention, we will give them anything they need.
Thank you, cousin. The Monarchists have demonstrated that they are the only faction that can govern Zoran with the people's best interests in mind. I am cheered by their recent victories and pray they continue to take control. The sooner this bloody nightmare ends and peace is restored, the better.
The prince raised his glass to his cousin and finished off his bourbon.
- United Adaikes, Fujai, Zoran and 1 other
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4
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Mother Angelica, Lady Abbess of The Order of Saint Clare, climbed the winding staircase to the Light Chamber. Her cheerful countenance belied the sharp pain in her back and knees with each step. Normally, if she had wanted to speak with her Sisters, she would have received them in her own office, but as these three were Sisters of The Mind and had just recently returned from Trance, they were still too weak to accommodate her. The Holy Hierophant himself had asked her to receive their report … so up the stairs it must be.
Many centuries ago, in the Age of Mystics, The Seers, as the Sisters of The Mind were called then, were wild, living in caves and unattached to any specific service to God. Since shortly after The Founding, however, they have been attached to The Faith, first as part of a separate Order and later under the protection of The Order of Saint Clare. Their special gifts had been used many times to guide The Faith as well as the Principality.
At the top, Mother Angelica paused outside of the small wooden door to catch her breath. After a brief prayer to Saint Agatha for healing, she tapped softly at the door. Mary Katherine, the young postulant attending the three Sisters, answered, bowed her head, and silently showed the Lady Abbess in.
The three Sisters of The Mind were propped up in their beds. Two sipped tea, while the third had her head back and her eyes closed with a cold cloth on her forehead. The two put aside their cups and the third opened her eyes and removed the cloth when she entered. “Blessings to you, Reverend Mother,” they greeted in unison.
“Blessings also unto you,” she replied. “I pray you are not too exhausted for my visit?”
“God is our strength, Reverend Mother. We are ready to serve.”
“The Faith values your use of your gifts in our service.” The Abbess seated herself on a cushioned stool and Mary Katherine brought her a cup of tea. “What have your visions told you about the poor Zoran heiress, Atsil?” she asked.
The one whose eyes had been closed answered. “The location of her captivity has not been revealed to us, but we do know that she is not in danger from her captor, the thief, and she will soon leave this place of hiding of her own accord. We do see that a son of a basket weaver, one bathed in blood, poses a grave risk to her safety. We will try to reach out to her and warn her.”
“Thank you Sisters. Your assistance is very much appreciated. I will leave you to your rest. May God continue to bless you with His many gifts and give you strength for the journey.”
With that she rose and braced herself for the long, painful trek back down the tower.
- Fujai, Larxia, Fhaengshia and 1 other
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4
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The Gift of Light: A Tale of How The Sun Came to the South
In the days before the Empire, even before The Prophet, The Sun lived in the Mountains. His Presence made the Mountains light and warm. Snow sparkled on the tall trees and streams glittered as they danced past their banks. Life was born of The Sun and thrived under His watchful and generous care.
Anor, one born of The Sun, had grown tall and strong, wise and caring. He used the gifts The Sun had given him to bring The Light to others. He turned want into comfort, fear into faith, and despair into hope. Many loved Anor … but not all. A few whose hearts were dark felt threatened by The Light. They were ashamed at what The Light might reveal. Although they lived under the same Sun, to them it scolded and burned.
One of these was Dur, a sorcerer of The Dark. With the help of the counsel of the night haunts, he devised a plot to rid the Mountains of both Anor and The Sun.
Disguised as a poor beggar and lying along the road, he waited for Anor to come upon him. Anor greeted him warmly and carried him to his house where he bathed and clothed him, gave him good food, a warm bed, and an ear to hear his troubles … as Dur knew he would. It was then that Dur told Anor of how on his many wanderings he had met the people of the South and how these people lived in cold and dark. If only they had someone like Anor to help them. Surely one as favored as Anor could bring them not only The Light, but The Sun itself.
Anor’s heart yearned to help the people of the South. The next day, he left the beggar in the care of a neighbor, and embracing him, thanked him for pointing his way to these people in need.
Dur smiled to himself, for he knew what the haunts had shared with him, something that Anor did not know. At the base of the mountains, before the South, lived a great Beast that would devour both Anor and The Sun.
To reach the South as quickly as possible, Anor rode the Great River. It carried him from slumbering lakes to crashing cataracts, from racing rivers to smoldering swamps. It was in one of these swamps, a place of heat without light, that the great Beast rose up before Anor.
Anor Carried The Sun within him and it shone forth from him, piercing the darkness. The Beast was afraid of this man of Light, but even more afraid of The Sun within him. He must not let this man release The Sun into his swamp. He must devour the man and keep The Sun imprisoned in darkness.
The Beast struck. With thrashing tail and grasping claws and mighty maw he struck. Anor was shoved into the Beast’s gullet, past the razor fangs. But Anor was without fear or despair. Alone, he would be finished, but he was not alone. The Sun was with him and in him and The Sun could not be contained by the darkness of the Beast. The Sun rushed into every corner of that great Beast, revealing death to this servant of dark.
With the Beast vanquished, Anor brought The Light and The Sun to the people of the South. But although The Sun was with them, it was not gone from the Mountains. Dur had misjudged the vastness of The Sun, the illuminating Presence of The Light. Having sought to banish both he had only aided in increasing their reach.
Anor stayed with the people of the South for a time, sharing comfort, faith, and hope. Many more were inspired to do likewise, and before long, Anor was able to return to his beloved Mountains. Light had been brought from the Mountains, down the great River to the people of the South.
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"What in Thram's Hall was that! We couldn't score one point against Larxia!?! Everyone scores against Larxia! Our defense was awesome, but we can't be all defense! We had plenty of opportunities, but didn't take advantage of a single one of them!"
The rest of the team was just as upset as hot-tempered Gregor, but much better at maintaining the typical Markan equanimity.
Sir Evan raised his hand and the mumbling replies quieted.
"Gentlemen, we all knew this was going to be an uphill battle. Rugby is a new sport to Saint Mark. We've come a long way in a year. While yes, I was disappointed in our offense today and I know we can do much better, we are indeed making a good show of it. I have received word from the palace that His Serene Highness will be in attendance at our next game. It is also our last chance to make it to the quarter finals. The game isn't until later in the day, so we have plenty of time to review plays over and over again and still be well-rested. Let's get to it."
With sighs and groans, the team surrounded to coach and prepared for a long evening.
- Fhaengshia and Zoran
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2
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The team was walking back to their rooms after being dismissed by Sir Evan after a somber debriefing.
"Don't worry about it so much, dude. They're a very defensive team. They're super hard to score against."
"I know," groaned Dasher, "but I couldn't get past that Huan Min even once! Who runs that fast!?"
"Yeah. Well, we're still doing great for our first time in the international arena. We have to play our strengths and do what we can to minimize our weaknesses. As both Saint Mark and Coach Rahl pointed out, we've won one and lost one, and we've still earned a decent number of points. We have to keep the long-term goal in mind."
"Yeah, I know." Looking up with a grin, he changed the topic. "Have you seen that crazy team from Dilber!? What the heck is going on there!!? "
Laughter and buoyed spirits accompanied them back to their rooms.
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The evening after the first game found Sir Evan in his room reviewing the recordings of the game over tea with the team.
I was quite impressed with our scoring, gentlemen. Part of that was due to a few mistakes by The Mountaineers, but mostly it was due to our own intelligent decisions.
Keep that up!Defensively, we were good, but could have done better. Remember, the post must tackle the ball carrier back towards the ruck. If they allow the attacker to cross the gain line, the rest of the defense will be forced to retire behind the last feet to be on-side. While they are doing so, a quick ball can give the attack advantage and have the defense playing catch up. I know you know this, but in the heat of the game, you want to be helpful to your teammates, of course, but it's more important for your to play your own role! You gentlemen generally did do this, and really did a fine job overall. Just, be a bit better focused.
All together, this was a fine game, gentlemen! You make Saint Mark proud!
- Zoran and Fhaengshia
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2
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It had been a long weekend. The press conference in the lobby of the Royal Central Rail Station in Sanctus Leo had gone as expected. The questions centered on three topics.
How did Saint Mark expect to compete in rugby on the international stage when only a year ago a national team didn't even exist? Good question!
Won't the fact that the team has to take the train to accommodate Rudolph Centerman's fear of flying fatigue the players even before they arrive?
At least the games were being hosted in DIlber and not off continent. If that had been the case, we would have had to either take a ship or drugged Centerman.How does Gregor Napoli feel about the civil war in Zoran?
Even though Gregor was born in Saint Mark of immigrant parents, the press still considered him Zoranian.Afterwards, the team almost missed their train when the Goldwash twins couldn't be pulled away from a crowd of admiring young ladies.Thank goodness for our charismatic Fly-Half, Nelson Saint Mark. He seems to be the only one the team listens to when they lose focus. He was able to drag the twins away while avoiding his own scrum of fans.
Upon arrival, clearing customs went smoothly, although it was odd ... the officials almost seemed surprised that we weren't carrying any drugs.
The hotel was nice, not Saint Markan of course, but nice. The crab hors d’oeuvres in every room was a nice touch.
Finally, after a team meeting and another press conference, Sir Evan was alone in his room with his feet up and a glass of Aurum Sherry in his hand.
Please God, let the team hold together! Let us have a respectable showing.- Zoran, Fhaengshia and Larxia
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Saint Markan Royal Rugby Team (Lions)
Style -1.00
1 - Bruno Goldwash
2 - Welhelo Saylor
3 - Baxtor Goldwash
4 - Eric Shoreman
5 - John Evermore
6 - Marcarius Hightower
7 - Gregor Napoli
8 - Paul Reston
9 - Michael Hawk
10 - Nelson Saint Mark
11 - Hugo Dasher
12 - Rudolph Centerman
13 - Alan Stonegate
14 - Christopher Dancer
15 - Blaze EmberfellCoach - Sir Evan Rahl
Injure my players: no
Assign my players yellow cards: yes
Assign my players red cards: no
Godmod injuries: no
Godmod scoring: yes
Godmod other events: yes -
Saint Mark wishes to participate.
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Maxwell, Lord Eastmarch, Count of Wynd, paced in front of his four attendants. As a first cousin to His Serene Highness, his participation in these covert talks was a sure sign to the monarchists that they would receive the full support of The Holy Principality of Saint Mark.
Having a stable Zoran off their shores was in their best interest, of course, and the House of Ani’-Wah’ had always been on excellent terms with the Houses of Halohin and those of many of the Electors. All of the intelligence, both normal and paranormal, that had been gathered from Saint Mark’s renowned network pointed to the monarchists as being the most likely faction to provide the needed stability, while still respecting the rights of the Zoran people … and the Saint Markian-Zoranian trade and defense agreements, of course.
It would be vital to provide as much assistance as they could, without actually being drawn into a military conflict.
At the sound of approaching footsteps echoing in the cold, ancient halls, Lord Eastmarch straightened and put a reassuring smile on his tanned face.
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His Serene Highness, Marcarius, Prince of the Holy Principality of Saint Mark, had been in Zoran for three days now, personally heading his nation's delegation paying respect to the late Zoran president. There had been somber ceremonies, eulogies, and state dinners. Although shielded from the masses by his position and his entourage, Marcarius had begun to suspect that something dangerous was brewing in the streets. Just now, his Chief of Security and his Chamberlain had confirmed his suspicions. Civil unrest at least, and possibly war at worst, was approaching. It was time to return to Saint Mark.
- Zoran and Artztokzsia
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2
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Gio is doing a terrific job as Speaker!
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Edward returned from seeing the visitor to the door.
Mr. Gryphor from the Saint Mark Tourism Council was quite upset, sir, that Ms. Blackcross' Bronze medal upset their plans for a new advertising slogan ... Saint Mark, Pure Gold.
Poor Hedwig. She wins a Bronze medal and is vilified. The worst of it is that she happens to be descended from The Knights of Blackcross. In the minds of the superstitious lower classes it will point to some sort of dark conspiracy for sure.Quite, sir. Only Rahl is considered more nefarious.
Yes, but also more glamorous, of course. There is nothing attractive about the history of the Blackcrosses.
Well, at least Her Holiness issued a statement pointing out how the lack of perfection in our medal tally is a sign that we are in proper relationship with The Lord. We are His humble servants, after all.
Let's push that narrative, Edward, and plan a huge celebration that treats the Blackcross girl as every bit as much a hero as our other athletes. -
Luke, my man! Another Gold! You are now the most awarded Olympian in Saint Mark history.
Well, it is the first Olympic Games, of course, Your Royal Highness, but thank you, sir. I'm glad I could contribute to the glory of Saint Mark.
Indeed you have! I couldn't be happier with how these games have turned out. I shall speak with the organizers and offer my heartfelt appreciation for their efforts.
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The Countess of Uia sipped her Special Royal Blend, savored the earthy sweetness, and placed her cup on its saucer.
She glanced again at Luke Waterman, something she found difficult not to do, and turned back to His Royal Highness.Did you hear what that hammer thrower from Fujai had to say about our athletes, cousin? Essentially, he declared our delegation to be nothing but aristocratic dilettantes.
Now, Susan, we mustn't concern ourselves with the comments of the ill-informed and uneducated. Edward told me that this man didn't even know that I had already ascended to the throne two years ago, calling me the heir. Of course our athletes are from the upper classes, but not everyone is titled. Luke, here, for example won Gold in the 200 meter breaststroke, and although a gentleman of course, is hardly a Peer.
Luke Waterman, almost mythically handsome, flashed a smile and raised his cup.
Seven Golds, sir! Regardless of background, each of our athletes has worked hard to prepare for competition in these olympics. Our success speaks for itself.
Congratulations to the both of you. You make Saint Mark proud.
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Good show, Your Royal Highness! You recovered just in time to help the Saint Mark team win the Gold in Team Equestrian Jumping!
The prince was feeling much better today and looked delighted over the team's Gold.
Thank you, Edward. Even though the Saint Mark medal tally may be a little light, every one of the five is Gold!
I'm proud of our athletes. Perhaps we will even put in a bid to host the next Summer Olympics!
1st T20 World Cup [rosters, roleplays, results]
in Roleplay - How the West Was Won
Posted
The evening found Prince Marcarius in his study reviewing some pending legislation. A glass of Royal Heritage Special Anniversary Very Old Tawny sat next to the late edition of The Markan Mail. The crackling fire was a delightful contrast to the howling storm hammering at the windows. A soft knock on the door broke his concentration.
"Come in."
"Your Serene Highness," began Howard Gresham as he entered and bowed. "I'm sorry to disturb you, but this invitation from the Larxian king has just arrived by courier."
Crossing the room soundlessly on the thick rug, the prince's Private Secretary handed the letter to the prince, who took it and looked it over.
"Hmm ... that would entail pushing up our plans and flying out to Larxia tonight."
"Yes, sir. What excuse would you like to give?"
"Excuse? Oh, no, Howard, I would like to attend. I've just been reading how our team has been fighting for their lives ... fantastic skills, but variable focus. I should like to give them my support. This next match is crucial. Also, I have yet to meet King James. He seems like a fascinating fellow ... taking his nation in a new direction. Yes, I would like to attend. Please send our acceptance and make the arrangements. The crew of the RAF Gryphon is top-notch. I'm unconcerned about the weather."
"Yes, sir," Gresham replied as he backed out of the study.
Hurrying down the corridor, he muttered to himself, "Holy One be with us! The prince may not be concerned, but someone needs to be!"