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[sub][color=c0c0c0]"Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and unto God the things that are God's."[/color][/sub]
[hr][color=c0c0c0][b]Location:[/b][/color] Carriage (en route to Almack's)[/center][hr][hr]

	Shock slapped Mary, hard and fast, though she took pains trying not to let it show on her face. Formality was one of her strong points, right alongside respect for her place in the hierarchy of her Church, her Order, and her family. She had just committed a blunder in this regard, whether or not Elizaveta truly felt no offense at her presumptions. Romanova? Of course, that was the name of the Russian ruling family. Why had she not put it together? 

	To be fair, the daughters of the First Family of Russia were supposed to be deceased. But that still wouldn't excuse using the simple title of "Lady" with a woman of Royal lineage. Mary was humbled. Especially when this Grand Duchess just referred to her as "Lady Mary". For a fraction of a second, the young Sister doubted the woman's claim, but judgement told her that her face held no dishonesty. This was a Royal, not a Noble. 

	[color=c0c0c0]"Your Imperial Highness,"[/color] she began, remembering the proper method of initiating speech with someone of her standing, [color=c0c0c0]"Please forgive my earlier statements. I had incorrect assumptions concerning Your Grace. And to readdress the request you made of me in the Undercroft - I would be honored many times over to be your entourage for the evening, provided I may fulfill my obligations to my Order."[/color] It pained her to think that she had turned the conversation over, asking in turn if [i]she[/i] would accompany [i]Mary[/i]. 

	Indeed, they would have a lot to discuss later in the evening. A passing thought took her for a moment, [color=c0c0c0]"If it please Your Grace, I do not have the title of Lady. I am the daughter of a hereditary Knight, which means nothing in this country because I was born a woman. The Church allowed me to earn the titles of Sister and Dame, appropriate to the role I fulfill from task to task. I do not presume to correct, merely to clarify. I am of course at your service, Your Grace, so long as it does not contradict my duty to the Order."[/color]

	Sister Mary had considered the possibility of enjoying a relaxing ride through London, but it was apparent to her that her sense of humility and obligation wouldn't let that happen tonight. She was ever on the clock, and what's more, now the Imperial Entourage of the Grand Duchess of the Russian Empire. It was most definitely an interesting day. It promised to get more interesting, too. For now, all Mary could do was remain sharp and keep this important woman polite company while waiting to arrive at Almack's. It was humorous, if just a little - the Soulless Hunter had made friends with a dead lady. (!?)

	Very interesting day, indeed.