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The Colchian Crown Prince and his younger sister the Princess Athanasia have left the kingdom to pursue connections in Taengea. In the wake of their absence and the King still fighting in the Northern Lands to subdue a small uprising from the tribes of the north, Queen Yanni holds court in the Colchian Dikastirio. Nobles from all over the kingdom attend whenever the elegant Queen opens the doors and fine food and wine is always expected. Not to mention the rumour mill that Colchis becomes when alcohol is prevalent and secrets have been exposed...
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The Colchian Crown Prince and his younger sister the Princess Athanasia have left the kingdom to pursue connections in Taengea. In the wake of their absence and the King still fighting in the Northern Lands to subdue a small uprising from the tribes of the north, Queen Yanni holds court in the Colchian Dikastirio. Nobles from all over the kingdom attend whenever the elegant Queen opens the doors and fine food and wine is always expected. Not to mention the rumour mill that Colchis becomes when alcohol is prevalent and secrets have been exposed...
The Serpent's Tongue Event - Colchis
The Colchian Crown Prince and his younger sister the Princess Athanasia have left the kingdom to pursue connections in Taengea. In the wake of their absence and the King still fighting in the Northern Lands to subdue a small uprising from the tribes of the north, Queen Yanni holds court in the Colchian Dikastirio. Nobles from all over the kingdom attend whenever the elegant Queen opens the doors and fine food and wine is always expected. Not to mention the rumour mill that Colchis becomes when alcohol is prevalent and secrets have been exposed...
Court sessions was not something Magnus enjoyed. It was perhaps the one thing the male tried to stay away from ever since stepping into his role in the gray area between a commoner and of nobility. He toed the line, for being a Master Informer meant he was allowed and invited to all the royal functions, but at the same time he was of no noble or royal birth, so people tended to not know what to do with him. Luckily, his colleagues would engage him in conversation whenever necessary.
But at the end of the day, his idea of a good evening to relax would still be with a chalice of wine and a book in his study.
He was, however, a responsible man. That, and the fact that he had a meeting with a few of the advisors in the royal palace studies, to update them on all that he had managed to seek during his trip to Taengea, a meeting that ended just an hour or so before the ball, which meant that he had no way of escape. Usually, Magnus would mention he had work of some sort when he could, but the Master Informer was also well aware that him attending this sort of functions meant he could glean a lot of information and make plenty of connection to further his work capabilities.
So the dark haired male gritted his teeth and went along with it. In his maroon chiton, a black and gold himation over his right shoulder, Magnus appeared in the ballroom where nobles and royals alike amongst themselves. A faint chatter could be heard, accompanied by the sound of wine and laughter. His eyes roamed, but failed to find the familiar black head of his sister - he had sent a carriage and a missive to her earlier instructing her to prepare and dress.
Along with the missive, he had attached a new chiton in her favorite color, one he had brought back from Taengea and had commissioned a seamstress within Midas to craft it specially for her. He had just managed to pick it up before attending his meeting, and wanted to see Leto attend court in her finest. The man would stop at nothing but the best for his sister. Had his parents wanted to attend, Magnus would likely have sponsored them as well, but Nifakis and Eudora were too comfortable in their life to attempt to assimilate into the nobility, so they often told their son to not bother.
With an ever watchful eye for his sister, the other roamed again, this time seeking out a brunette head that would come with a light laugh he found himself quite enjoying. Ever since returning from Taengea the week before and finding himself up to his neck in work in the wake of the fire that had wrecked Midas, Magnus had only had the time to send one missive to Lady Iolanthe seeking her forgiveness for not keeping in touch. Tonight however, Magnus intended to remedy that.
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Court sessions was not something Magnus enjoyed. It was perhaps the one thing the male tried to stay away from ever since stepping into his role in the gray area between a commoner and of nobility. He toed the line, for being a Master Informer meant he was allowed and invited to all the royal functions, but at the same time he was of no noble or royal birth, so people tended to not know what to do with him. Luckily, his colleagues would engage him in conversation whenever necessary.
But at the end of the day, his idea of a good evening to relax would still be with a chalice of wine and a book in his study.
He was, however, a responsible man. That, and the fact that he had a meeting with a few of the advisors in the royal palace studies, to update them on all that he had managed to seek during his trip to Taengea, a meeting that ended just an hour or so before the ball, which meant that he had no way of escape. Usually, Magnus would mention he had work of some sort when he could, but the Master Informer was also well aware that him attending this sort of functions meant he could glean a lot of information and make plenty of connection to further his work capabilities.
So the dark haired male gritted his teeth and went along with it. In his maroon chiton, a black and gold himation over his right shoulder, Magnus appeared in the ballroom where nobles and royals alike amongst themselves. A faint chatter could be heard, accompanied by the sound of wine and laughter. His eyes roamed, but failed to find the familiar black head of his sister - he had sent a carriage and a missive to her earlier instructing her to prepare and dress.
Along with the missive, he had attached a new chiton in her favorite color, one he had brought back from Taengea and had commissioned a seamstress within Midas to craft it specially for her. He had just managed to pick it up before attending his meeting, and wanted to see Leto attend court in her finest. The man would stop at nothing but the best for his sister. Had his parents wanted to attend, Magnus would likely have sponsored them as well, but Nifakis and Eudora were too comfortable in their life to attempt to assimilate into the nobility, so they often told their son to not bother.
With an ever watchful eye for his sister, the other roamed again, this time seeking out a brunette head that would come with a light laugh he found himself quite enjoying. Ever since returning from Taengea the week before and finding himself up to his neck in work in the wake of the fire that had wrecked Midas, Magnus had only had the time to send one missive to Lady Iolanthe seeking her forgiveness for not keeping in touch. Tonight however, Magnus intended to remedy that.
Court sessions was not something Magnus enjoyed. It was perhaps the one thing the male tried to stay away from ever since stepping into his role in the gray area between a commoner and of nobility. He toed the line, for being a Master Informer meant he was allowed and invited to all the royal functions, but at the same time he was of no noble or royal birth, so people tended to not know what to do with him. Luckily, his colleagues would engage him in conversation whenever necessary.
But at the end of the day, his idea of a good evening to relax would still be with a chalice of wine and a book in his study.
He was, however, a responsible man. That, and the fact that he had a meeting with a few of the advisors in the royal palace studies, to update them on all that he had managed to seek during his trip to Taengea, a meeting that ended just an hour or so before the ball, which meant that he had no way of escape. Usually, Magnus would mention he had work of some sort when he could, but the Master Informer was also well aware that him attending this sort of functions meant he could glean a lot of information and make plenty of connection to further his work capabilities.
So the dark haired male gritted his teeth and went along with it. In his maroon chiton, a black and gold himation over his right shoulder, Magnus appeared in the ballroom where nobles and royals alike amongst themselves. A faint chatter could be heard, accompanied by the sound of wine and laughter. His eyes roamed, but failed to find the familiar black head of his sister - he had sent a carriage and a missive to her earlier instructing her to prepare and dress.
Along with the missive, he had attached a new chiton in her favorite color, one he had brought back from Taengea and had commissioned a seamstress within Midas to craft it specially for her. He had just managed to pick it up before attending his meeting, and wanted to see Leto attend court in her finest. The man would stop at nothing but the best for his sister. Had his parents wanted to attend, Magnus would likely have sponsored them as well, but Nifakis and Eudora were too comfortable in their life to attempt to assimilate into the nobility, so they often told their son to not bother.
With an ever watchful eye for his sister, the other roamed again, this time seeking out a brunette head that would come with a light laugh he found himself quite enjoying. Ever since returning from Taengea the week before and finding himself up to his neck in work in the wake of the fire that had wrecked Midas, Magnus had only had the time to send one missive to Lady Iolanthe seeking her forgiveness for not keeping in touch. Tonight however, Magnus intended to remedy that.
Had someone walked by the room shared by the second prince of Colchis and his wife just the half hour before court was due to start, one would've heard a peal of laughter in the voice of Evras of Kotas, as she swatted her husband's hands away from her, and in the process dropping the silken emerald green fabric she had been twisting around herself to tuck into the first layer her maids had done for her, before Zanon had subsequently woken up and chased said maids away from the chambers. Which now left Evras alone to finish pinning and twining the rest of her peplos into place so she could be ready for the court session to be held that night.
Now if she had just woken up earlier, bidded her husband goodbye so she could get ready in her own quarters just a room away, this problem would probably not even exist? But truth be told, Evras was loathed to leave her husband, especially now that both the King and Vangelis away, which meant Zanon had had to pick up most of the work and was left busier then ever. That meant the woman only got to see her husband at night when Dion was asleep and he returned to the room. Plus, she has found herself oddly alot more sleepy these days, so the couple had had scarce time to spend.
So Evras enjoyed his eyes on her as she dressed, turning to him to offer him a smile as she finally finished tying the golden cord around her waist which held up the remainder of the soft emerald material. Strolling over to the mirror, the woman combed through her dark locks as she spoke over her shoulders, "Get dressed already husband," her teasing words were accompanied by a laugh, reaching to take the paint for her lips. Her pale skin meant it was a necessity for her lips to be accentuated, and the red merely made her eyes look a darker shade, making her pale beauty stand out even more.
She was... excited wouldn't be the right word when it came to court session. When she was still unmarried within the Thanasi household, court meant it was a time for Nethis to push her to hold conversations with people she did not know, smile at men she may not favor. Now as a princess and wife to Zanon, court meant she had to uphold both Kotas and Thanasi honor, and navigate the murky waters of political conversations to ensure she would insult no one.
All in all, it was tiring.
But at least she wouldn't have to handle Dion in court yet. At eleven, he was still too young to attend his first court session. Evras remembered her first being at the age of fifteen, in a way the woman would be proud when she sees her son dressed for court the first time - but for now, she had a whole room full of nobility and royalty to contend to, all while ensuring the Queen was happy with her actions.
Taking a deep, steadying breathe, she finally turned to let her eyes fall on her husband, smiling as she extended a hand at him, fully ready to enter Colchian court on his arms.
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Had someone walked by the room shared by the second prince of Colchis and his wife just the half hour before court was due to start, one would've heard a peal of laughter in the voice of Evras of Kotas, as she swatted her husband's hands away from her, and in the process dropping the silken emerald green fabric she had been twisting around herself to tuck into the first layer her maids had done for her, before Zanon had subsequently woken up and chased said maids away from the chambers. Which now left Evras alone to finish pinning and twining the rest of her peplos into place so she could be ready for the court session to be held that night.
Now if she had just woken up earlier, bidded her husband goodbye so she could get ready in her own quarters just a room away, this problem would probably not even exist? But truth be told, Evras was loathed to leave her husband, especially now that both the King and Vangelis away, which meant Zanon had had to pick up most of the work and was left busier then ever. That meant the woman only got to see her husband at night when Dion was asleep and he returned to the room. Plus, she has found herself oddly alot more sleepy these days, so the couple had had scarce time to spend.
So Evras enjoyed his eyes on her as she dressed, turning to him to offer him a smile as she finally finished tying the golden cord around her waist which held up the remainder of the soft emerald material. Strolling over to the mirror, the woman combed through her dark locks as she spoke over her shoulders, "Get dressed already husband," her teasing words were accompanied by a laugh, reaching to take the paint for her lips. Her pale skin meant it was a necessity for her lips to be accentuated, and the red merely made her eyes look a darker shade, making her pale beauty stand out even more.
She was... excited wouldn't be the right word when it came to court session. When she was still unmarried within the Thanasi household, court meant it was a time for Nethis to push her to hold conversations with people she did not know, smile at men she may not favor. Now as a princess and wife to Zanon, court meant she had to uphold both Kotas and Thanasi honor, and navigate the murky waters of political conversations to ensure she would insult no one.
All in all, it was tiring.
But at least she wouldn't have to handle Dion in court yet. At eleven, he was still too young to attend his first court session. Evras remembered her first being at the age of fifteen, in a way the woman would be proud when she sees her son dressed for court the first time - but for now, she had a whole room full of nobility and royalty to contend to, all while ensuring the Queen was happy with her actions.
Taking a deep, steadying breathe, she finally turned to let her eyes fall on her husband, smiling as she extended a hand at him, fully ready to enter Colchian court on his arms.
Had someone walked by the room shared by the second prince of Colchis and his wife just the half hour before court was due to start, one would've heard a peal of laughter in the voice of Evras of Kotas, as she swatted her husband's hands away from her, and in the process dropping the silken emerald green fabric she had been twisting around herself to tuck into the first layer her maids had done for her, before Zanon had subsequently woken up and chased said maids away from the chambers. Which now left Evras alone to finish pinning and twining the rest of her peplos into place so she could be ready for the court session to be held that night.
Now if she had just woken up earlier, bidded her husband goodbye so she could get ready in her own quarters just a room away, this problem would probably not even exist? But truth be told, Evras was loathed to leave her husband, especially now that both the King and Vangelis away, which meant Zanon had had to pick up most of the work and was left busier then ever. That meant the woman only got to see her husband at night when Dion was asleep and he returned to the room. Plus, she has found herself oddly alot more sleepy these days, so the couple had had scarce time to spend.
So Evras enjoyed his eyes on her as she dressed, turning to him to offer him a smile as she finally finished tying the golden cord around her waist which held up the remainder of the soft emerald material. Strolling over to the mirror, the woman combed through her dark locks as she spoke over her shoulders, "Get dressed already husband," her teasing words were accompanied by a laugh, reaching to take the paint for her lips. Her pale skin meant it was a necessity for her lips to be accentuated, and the red merely made her eyes look a darker shade, making her pale beauty stand out even more.
She was... excited wouldn't be the right word when it came to court session. When she was still unmarried within the Thanasi household, court meant it was a time for Nethis to push her to hold conversations with people she did not know, smile at men she may not favor. Now as a princess and wife to Zanon, court meant she had to uphold both Kotas and Thanasi honor, and navigate the murky waters of political conversations to ensure she would insult no one.
All in all, it was tiring.
But at least she wouldn't have to handle Dion in court yet. At eleven, he was still too young to attend his first court session. Evras remembered her first being at the age of fifteen, in a way the woman would be proud when she sees her son dressed for court the first time - but for now, she had a whole room full of nobility and royalty to contend to, all while ensuring the Queen was happy with her actions.
Taking a deep, steadying breathe, she finally turned to let her eyes fall on her husband, smiling as she extended a hand at him, fully ready to enter Colchian court on his arms.
Ever since their reconciliation, it had been nearly impossible to keep his hands off of her. That love that they had shared, the passion from the beginning, was fully rekindled and now he could barely pull himself from her side. The guilt over his doubt and subsequent mistreatment had yet to fade, and he was trying to make up for the time he had missed whenever and however he could. The absence of his father to the northern lines and Vangelis’ trip to Taengea left him as the eldest Kotas male to in image take the reins of the kingdom. He wished his brother all the best in his endeavors, secretly hoping he brought back Selene of Leventi as his future bride. When the woman had visited the court in the past Zanon had been incredibly impressed with her elegance and how she handled the pressures of being a foreigner in court given the circumstances he himself had put her through.
He had wanted to just hold Evras in bed for the remainder of the day, but supporting his mother as she held court without either his father or Vangelis for the first time was important. And deep down he knew that, but he couldn’t bring himself to let go of his wife as she tried to prepare herself for the event. His hands slid around her waist and circled around her stomach to hold her close against his chest and his lips trailed from her shoulder to her neck before brushing his nose against her earlobe. Chuckling at her scolding, Zanon stole one final kiss before giving a heavy sigh and finally releasing her.
”As you wish my love. But when you look so irresistible, how am I to focus?”
The process of pulling himself together for the court session took far less effort than Evras’ toilette, and after he’d pulled on his red and gold trimmed white tunic he laced up his sandals before donning a red chlamys also bordered in gold over his shoulder. A small gold circlet sat in his dark brown hair and he scratched at his beard, studying it in the mirrored surface over his wife’s shoulder, pondering when he ought to take a razor to it again. Too long and he looked a madman, but without his face felt far too plain. It was too late to change anything before the court session, but thought for another time.
As soon as Evras was ready, Zanon held out his arm to her and together the royal couple made their way through to the dikastirio. Squeezing her hand, as she extended it to him he brought it to his lips and before all gathered placed a hand on the back, another subtle show of unity, that the rift between them was healing. He smiled to those friends in the crowd and nodded to the others, bowing before his mother in a show of respect before he released his wife’s hand and stepped up to stand at Yanni’s side. His mother looked regal and entirely in her element, the perfect Colchian queen and as he thought of Vangelis’ journey he wondered if anyone would ever be able to truly fill her shoes.
”Mother.” Kissing the queen’s hand in reverence, he stood back to allow her to take all precedence, hands clasped behind his back as he surveyed the room. He could see his wife’s Thanasi relatives, the Drakos and Peisistratos and Valaoritis were well represented. His remaining siblings too filled out the room and he was pleased to see that the master informer was well placed amongst everyone. While Magnus had been gone to Taengea himself a while prior, he felt confident that anything worth noting would be overheard by the spymaster without any additional prompting from him.
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This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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Ever since their reconciliation, it had been nearly impossible to keep his hands off of her. That love that they had shared, the passion from the beginning, was fully rekindled and now he could barely pull himself from her side. The guilt over his doubt and subsequent mistreatment had yet to fade, and he was trying to make up for the time he had missed whenever and however he could. The absence of his father to the northern lines and Vangelis’ trip to Taengea left him as the eldest Kotas male to in image take the reins of the kingdom. He wished his brother all the best in his endeavors, secretly hoping he brought back Selene of Leventi as his future bride. When the woman had visited the court in the past Zanon had been incredibly impressed with her elegance and how she handled the pressures of being a foreigner in court given the circumstances he himself had put her through.
He had wanted to just hold Evras in bed for the remainder of the day, but supporting his mother as she held court without either his father or Vangelis for the first time was important. And deep down he knew that, but he couldn’t bring himself to let go of his wife as she tried to prepare herself for the event. His hands slid around her waist and circled around her stomach to hold her close against his chest and his lips trailed from her shoulder to her neck before brushing his nose against her earlobe. Chuckling at her scolding, Zanon stole one final kiss before giving a heavy sigh and finally releasing her.
”As you wish my love. But when you look so irresistible, how am I to focus?”
The process of pulling himself together for the court session took far less effort than Evras’ toilette, and after he’d pulled on his red and gold trimmed white tunic he laced up his sandals before donning a red chlamys also bordered in gold over his shoulder. A small gold circlet sat in his dark brown hair and he scratched at his beard, studying it in the mirrored surface over his wife’s shoulder, pondering when he ought to take a razor to it again. Too long and he looked a madman, but without his face felt far too plain. It was too late to change anything before the court session, but thought for another time.
As soon as Evras was ready, Zanon held out his arm to her and together the royal couple made their way through to the dikastirio. Squeezing her hand, as she extended it to him he brought it to his lips and before all gathered placed a hand on the back, another subtle show of unity, that the rift between them was healing. He smiled to those friends in the crowd and nodded to the others, bowing before his mother in a show of respect before he released his wife’s hand and stepped up to stand at Yanni’s side. His mother looked regal and entirely in her element, the perfect Colchian queen and as he thought of Vangelis’ journey he wondered if anyone would ever be able to truly fill her shoes.
”Mother.” Kissing the queen’s hand in reverence, he stood back to allow her to take all precedence, hands clasped behind his back as he surveyed the room. He could see his wife’s Thanasi relatives, the Drakos and Peisistratos and Valaoritis were well represented. His remaining siblings too filled out the room and he was pleased to see that the master informer was well placed amongst everyone. While Magnus had been gone to Taengea himself a while prior, he felt confident that anything worth noting would be overheard by the spymaster without any additional prompting from him.
Ever since their reconciliation, it had been nearly impossible to keep his hands off of her. That love that they had shared, the passion from the beginning, was fully rekindled and now he could barely pull himself from her side. The guilt over his doubt and subsequent mistreatment had yet to fade, and he was trying to make up for the time he had missed whenever and however he could. The absence of his father to the northern lines and Vangelis’ trip to Taengea left him as the eldest Kotas male to in image take the reins of the kingdom. He wished his brother all the best in his endeavors, secretly hoping he brought back Selene of Leventi as his future bride. When the woman had visited the court in the past Zanon had been incredibly impressed with her elegance and how she handled the pressures of being a foreigner in court given the circumstances he himself had put her through.
He had wanted to just hold Evras in bed for the remainder of the day, but supporting his mother as she held court without either his father or Vangelis for the first time was important. And deep down he knew that, but he couldn’t bring himself to let go of his wife as she tried to prepare herself for the event. His hands slid around her waist and circled around her stomach to hold her close against his chest and his lips trailed from her shoulder to her neck before brushing his nose against her earlobe. Chuckling at her scolding, Zanon stole one final kiss before giving a heavy sigh and finally releasing her.
”As you wish my love. But when you look so irresistible, how am I to focus?”
The process of pulling himself together for the court session took far less effort than Evras’ toilette, and after he’d pulled on his red and gold trimmed white tunic he laced up his sandals before donning a red chlamys also bordered in gold over his shoulder. A small gold circlet sat in his dark brown hair and he scratched at his beard, studying it in the mirrored surface over his wife’s shoulder, pondering when he ought to take a razor to it again. Too long and he looked a madman, but without his face felt far too plain. It was too late to change anything before the court session, but thought for another time.
As soon as Evras was ready, Zanon held out his arm to her and together the royal couple made their way through to the dikastirio. Squeezing her hand, as she extended it to him he brought it to his lips and before all gathered placed a hand on the back, another subtle show of unity, that the rift between them was healing. He smiled to those friends in the crowd and nodded to the others, bowing before his mother in a show of respect before he released his wife’s hand and stepped up to stand at Yanni’s side. His mother looked regal and entirely in her element, the perfect Colchian queen and as he thought of Vangelis’ journey he wondered if anyone would ever be able to truly fill her shoes.
”Mother.” Kissing the queen’s hand in reverence, he stood back to allow her to take all precedence, hands clasped behind his back as he surveyed the room. He could see his wife’s Thanasi relatives, the Drakos and Peisistratos and Valaoritis were well represented. His remaining siblings too filled out the room and he was pleased to see that the master informer was well placed amongst everyone. While Magnus had been gone to Taengea himself a while prior, he felt confident that anything worth noting would be overheard by the spymaster without any additional prompting from him.
Given his usual distaste for the Kotas family, it seemed rare that Mihail would ever want to attend court. But there were two reasons why he had chosen to participate on this particular day, and neither had to do with the food and drink he knew would be on offer. Firstly, he could never resist the gossip and rumour that ran rampant through the court and, secondly, he had promised Evras that he would make an effort. He would make an effort to integrate himself with the Kotas family, to stop seeing them as nothing more than just an enemy to be defeated, and what better time to do that than when the Crown Prince and King were away?
Mihail wanted to make his sister proud, show himself off and make sure she was aware that he cared for her opinions and all that which she requested of him. He was dressed up neat and tidied in a navy blue shade which brought out his paleness and darkened his hair, done up with a silver clasp on shoulder and belt. He had chosen to make his way to the Dikastirio alone on this occasion, arriving early enough. Look at that. Mihail, early to something. It was truly a sight to behold. At least he was quick to spot his sister and her husband, although he avoided rushing towards them right away, instead moving to greet the Queen as was expected. He may not have liked the family all too much, but he was not so stupid as to insult them so openly. A smile was plastered onto his face, a polite expression that was perhaps not as subtle in its falsehood as he had intended it be. "Your Majesty." He placed a soft kiss on her outstretched hand, smiling brightly. "Such a pleasure to attend court once more. Do give my best to my cousin upon his return from the North, hm?"
With formalities now handled, he stepped away once more, making a beeline towards his sister. "Evras!" he called over as he approached her and her husband, elongating the final syllable of her name, stealing a goblet of wine from a passing waiter. "I've missed you so." He reached over to kiss her on either cheek, turning to face Zanon afterwards with that same plastered-on smile, making his effort obvious to his sister as he bowed his head slightly in respect. "It's...good to see you as well, your Highness. I hear Dion is starting his military training? Evras was saying only the other day how he's becoming quite the archer."
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Given his usual distaste for the Kotas family, it seemed rare that Mihail would ever want to attend court. But there were two reasons why he had chosen to participate on this particular day, and neither had to do with the food and drink he knew would be on offer. Firstly, he could never resist the gossip and rumour that ran rampant through the court and, secondly, he had promised Evras that he would make an effort. He would make an effort to integrate himself with the Kotas family, to stop seeing them as nothing more than just an enemy to be defeated, and what better time to do that than when the Crown Prince and King were away?
Mihail wanted to make his sister proud, show himself off and make sure she was aware that he cared for her opinions and all that which she requested of him. He was dressed up neat and tidied in a navy blue shade which brought out his paleness and darkened his hair, done up with a silver clasp on shoulder and belt. He had chosen to make his way to the Dikastirio alone on this occasion, arriving early enough. Look at that. Mihail, early to something. It was truly a sight to behold. At least he was quick to spot his sister and her husband, although he avoided rushing towards them right away, instead moving to greet the Queen as was expected. He may not have liked the family all too much, but he was not so stupid as to insult them so openly. A smile was plastered onto his face, a polite expression that was perhaps not as subtle in its falsehood as he had intended it be. "Your Majesty." He placed a soft kiss on her outstretched hand, smiling brightly. "Such a pleasure to attend court once more. Do give my best to my cousin upon his return from the North, hm?"
With formalities now handled, he stepped away once more, making a beeline towards his sister. "Evras!" he called over as he approached her and her husband, elongating the final syllable of her name, stealing a goblet of wine from a passing waiter. "I've missed you so." He reached over to kiss her on either cheek, turning to face Zanon afterwards with that same plastered-on smile, making his effort obvious to his sister as he bowed his head slightly in respect. "It's...good to see you as well, your Highness. I hear Dion is starting his military training? Evras was saying only the other day how he's becoming quite the archer."
Given his usual distaste for the Kotas family, it seemed rare that Mihail would ever want to attend court. But there were two reasons why he had chosen to participate on this particular day, and neither had to do with the food and drink he knew would be on offer. Firstly, he could never resist the gossip and rumour that ran rampant through the court and, secondly, he had promised Evras that he would make an effort. He would make an effort to integrate himself with the Kotas family, to stop seeing them as nothing more than just an enemy to be defeated, and what better time to do that than when the Crown Prince and King were away?
Mihail wanted to make his sister proud, show himself off and make sure she was aware that he cared for her opinions and all that which she requested of him. He was dressed up neat and tidied in a navy blue shade which brought out his paleness and darkened his hair, done up with a silver clasp on shoulder and belt. He had chosen to make his way to the Dikastirio alone on this occasion, arriving early enough. Look at that. Mihail, early to something. It was truly a sight to behold. At least he was quick to spot his sister and her husband, although he avoided rushing towards them right away, instead moving to greet the Queen as was expected. He may not have liked the family all too much, but he was not so stupid as to insult them so openly. A smile was plastered onto his face, a polite expression that was perhaps not as subtle in its falsehood as he had intended it be. "Your Majesty." He placed a soft kiss on her outstretched hand, smiling brightly. "Such a pleasure to attend court once more. Do give my best to my cousin upon his return from the North, hm?"
With formalities now handled, he stepped away once more, making a beeline towards his sister. "Evras!" he called over as he approached her and her husband, elongating the final syllable of her name, stealing a goblet of wine from a passing waiter. "I've missed you so." He reached over to kiss her on either cheek, turning to face Zanon afterwards with that same plastered-on smile, making his effort obvious to his sister as he bowed his head slightly in respect. "It's...good to see you as well, your Highness. I hear Dion is starting his military training? Evras was saying only the other day how he's becoming quite the archer."
Having only recently turned twelve years of age, it was the first time that Aras and Babis had been made to attend the Colchian court. Of course, the older of the twins had always known that there would one day come a day that he and his brother would have to throw away their childish whimsies and begin to act like adults, as many had so eloquently put it. It was a day they had feared for a while now and had somehow managed to avoid for the better part of a few weeks, but avoidance there was no more. Their mother had dragged them out of their beds early that morning and made sure the pair of them were dressed up to the nines with their hair combed nicely to one side, a final inspection before they left the Eliades home for the Dikastirio ensuring that there were no badly placed grass stains around their knees or tears in the fabrics of their chitons. Once she had deemed them appropriately dressed, the family had left.
'Court' did not seem an exciting prospect to either of the Eliades twins. They had spoken on the subject many times in the past and the general consensus had always been that it was not interesting in the slightest and that they were not happy with the idea that one day they would be dragged into this whole new world against their will. They had always been told that it was not a place where they could play their games and that they would have to be on their best behaviour - and 'best behaviour' was not something either of them was ever too keen on - and now that the reality was looming, it was nothing short of a terrifying mystery. But the boys were nothing if not mischievous, and they were generally capable of making their own fun even when it wasn't permitted.
"Brace yourself, Bab,' he had whispered to his younger brother as the pair of them had been led into the grand hall. The place was crowded with faces, most of which were quite familiar to the oldest of the Eliades boys. These were almost all people that he had met in the past, in family events or otherwise, which stressed him out less, but the formality of the event was no reassurance. He followed their parents as they made their way to greeting the Queen, staring up at her awkwardly in that childish manner that everyone thought so cute.
"Your Majesty," he greeted her, kissing her hand just like his father had before him, and waiting for his brother to do the same thing and for their parents to finish making small talk. As soon as the group of them had stepped away again, Aras turned back to his brother, a grin on his face as he whispered his idea. "Babis...I saw a lot of empty halls when we were coming in here. If Mother and Father aren't looking...maybe we could sneak out and find something better than this to do?"
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This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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Having only recently turned twelve years of age, it was the first time that Aras and Babis had been made to attend the Colchian court. Of course, the older of the twins had always known that there would one day come a day that he and his brother would have to throw away their childish whimsies and begin to act like adults, as many had so eloquently put it. It was a day they had feared for a while now and had somehow managed to avoid for the better part of a few weeks, but avoidance there was no more. Their mother had dragged them out of their beds early that morning and made sure the pair of them were dressed up to the nines with their hair combed nicely to one side, a final inspection before they left the Eliades home for the Dikastirio ensuring that there were no badly placed grass stains around their knees or tears in the fabrics of their chitons. Once she had deemed them appropriately dressed, the family had left.
'Court' did not seem an exciting prospect to either of the Eliades twins. They had spoken on the subject many times in the past and the general consensus had always been that it was not interesting in the slightest and that they were not happy with the idea that one day they would be dragged into this whole new world against their will. They had always been told that it was not a place where they could play their games and that they would have to be on their best behaviour - and 'best behaviour' was not something either of them was ever too keen on - and now that the reality was looming, it was nothing short of a terrifying mystery. But the boys were nothing if not mischievous, and they were generally capable of making their own fun even when it wasn't permitted.
"Brace yourself, Bab,' he had whispered to his younger brother as the pair of them had been led into the grand hall. The place was crowded with faces, most of which were quite familiar to the oldest of the Eliades boys. These were almost all people that he had met in the past, in family events or otherwise, which stressed him out less, but the formality of the event was no reassurance. He followed their parents as they made their way to greeting the Queen, staring up at her awkwardly in that childish manner that everyone thought so cute.
"Your Majesty," he greeted her, kissing her hand just like his father had before him, and waiting for his brother to do the same thing and for their parents to finish making small talk. As soon as the group of them had stepped away again, Aras turned back to his brother, a grin on his face as he whispered his idea. "Babis...I saw a lot of empty halls when we were coming in here. If Mother and Father aren't looking...maybe we could sneak out and find something better than this to do?"
Having only recently turned twelve years of age, it was the first time that Aras and Babis had been made to attend the Colchian court. Of course, the older of the twins had always known that there would one day come a day that he and his brother would have to throw away their childish whimsies and begin to act like adults, as many had so eloquently put it. It was a day they had feared for a while now and had somehow managed to avoid for the better part of a few weeks, but avoidance there was no more. Their mother had dragged them out of their beds early that morning and made sure the pair of them were dressed up to the nines with their hair combed nicely to one side, a final inspection before they left the Eliades home for the Dikastirio ensuring that there were no badly placed grass stains around their knees or tears in the fabrics of their chitons. Once she had deemed them appropriately dressed, the family had left.
'Court' did not seem an exciting prospect to either of the Eliades twins. They had spoken on the subject many times in the past and the general consensus had always been that it was not interesting in the slightest and that they were not happy with the idea that one day they would be dragged into this whole new world against their will. They had always been told that it was not a place where they could play their games and that they would have to be on their best behaviour - and 'best behaviour' was not something either of them was ever too keen on - and now that the reality was looming, it was nothing short of a terrifying mystery. But the boys were nothing if not mischievous, and they were generally capable of making their own fun even when it wasn't permitted.
"Brace yourself, Bab,' he had whispered to his younger brother as the pair of them had been led into the grand hall. The place was crowded with faces, most of which were quite familiar to the oldest of the Eliades boys. These were almost all people that he had met in the past, in family events or otherwise, which stressed him out less, but the formality of the event was no reassurance. He followed their parents as they made their way to greeting the Queen, staring up at her awkwardly in that childish manner that everyone thought so cute.
"Your Majesty," he greeted her, kissing her hand just like his father had before him, and waiting for his brother to do the same thing and for their parents to finish making small talk. As soon as the group of them had stepped away again, Aras turned back to his brother, a grin on his face as he whispered his idea. "Babis...I saw a lot of empty halls when we were coming in here. If Mother and Father aren't looking...maybe we could sneak out and find something better than this to do?"
As soon as the missive arrived from her brother, Leto found herself in a flurry of action. Yes, there was time before the event, but as always and as with anything in her life, she wished she were better prepared. One of the household servants offered assistance and soothing words as they looked over the new chiton.
Magnus had outdone himself. The chiton was a beautiful blue-grey garment with fabric so light it seemed seemed to flutter and billow with every small motion. It was cut in a new fashion from Taengea - one that took a short while for both Leto and the servant to figure out before affixing it properly. Once it was attached and secured, draping gracefully over her lithe figure, the silver embroidering shimmering with each ripple in the fabric, the servant began the arduous task of pinning and securing her hair.
No pins in Colchis, she imagined, were strong enough to bind down her thick curls, and through the use of many oils and tight braids, they managed an elegant hairstyle, with part of her hair braided and wrapped around the crown of her head and the remainder, smoothed to cascade over her shoulder. Finally adorned with two fine silver pins above her temples, it was considered done.
The carriage ride to the Dikastirio was brief, but not brief enough to prevent her mind from wandering. This would be her first time attending court at her brother's invitation. For years, she had not put much thought into stepping into her brother's world and had been content to toe the line between their modest upbringing and their introduction to higher society. Within the last year or so, she began to take an interest in doing so. Many lessons and sessions with etiquette tutors and others later, she supposed that, by the books, she was well enough prepared to not be a complete embarrassment to Magnus in front of his peers, though the voice in the back of her mind continued to whisper insidiously.
Upon entering the Dikastirio, she found it sparsely populated at first, with her brother nowhere in sight. The corner of her lip tugged nervously for a moment, as she folded her hands in an effort not to fidget with her dress. It was not her first time in the Dikastirio, having seen Magnus at work more than once over the years in the captial, but it was adorned quite differently for such an occasion.
After walking not too far from the entrance to admire the room, a servant offered her a finely decorated cup of wine, which she accepted if only to have something to preoccupy her hands. Magnus had warned her about imbibing too much, particularly at courtly occasions, but on the same hand, the last thing she wanted to do was to insult the royal hosts by refusing to accept anything at all.
Not wanting to stand in the middle of the room looking terribly lost, she began to wander along the edges of the room, taking the time to admire the artwork and sculptures depicting ancient royals and others of note, preoccupying herself with reading the engravings on each piece. It was an excellent way to keep an eye on the room around her. The issue arose in that she found herself more engaged in the history along the walls of the Dikastirio than initially intended, reading intently each of the engravings and taking note of the detail within the artwork. She lost sense of time, and by the time she turned around, the number of people within the room had nearly tripled, and by the gods, she had managed to miss the entrance of Queen Yianni entirely.
Once again a part of the world, she glanced around, having a moderate advantage over many with her height, to find her brother far across the room. It would be nearly impossible to reach him without practically swimming through the crowd and simply waving an arm for his attention was completely out of the question. Taking a breath and ensuring her posture was straight, she tried to find the clearest pathway through the milling nobles and retainers, hesitation winning when it came to trying to take a step forward.
At this rate, she pondered how likely it was for her cowardice to cause her to live out the rest of the night along the wall.
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Check out their information page here.
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As soon as the missive arrived from her brother, Leto found herself in a flurry of action. Yes, there was time before the event, but as always and as with anything in her life, she wished she were better prepared. One of the household servants offered assistance and soothing words as they looked over the new chiton.
Magnus had outdone himself. The chiton was a beautiful blue-grey garment with fabric so light it seemed seemed to flutter and billow with every small motion. It was cut in a new fashion from Taengea - one that took a short while for both Leto and the servant to figure out before affixing it properly. Once it was attached and secured, draping gracefully over her lithe figure, the silver embroidering shimmering with each ripple in the fabric, the servant began the arduous task of pinning and securing her hair.
No pins in Colchis, she imagined, were strong enough to bind down her thick curls, and through the use of many oils and tight braids, they managed an elegant hairstyle, with part of her hair braided and wrapped around the crown of her head and the remainder, smoothed to cascade over her shoulder. Finally adorned with two fine silver pins above her temples, it was considered done.
The carriage ride to the Dikastirio was brief, but not brief enough to prevent her mind from wandering. This would be her first time attending court at her brother's invitation. For years, she had not put much thought into stepping into her brother's world and had been content to toe the line between their modest upbringing and their introduction to higher society. Within the last year or so, she began to take an interest in doing so. Many lessons and sessions with etiquette tutors and others later, she supposed that, by the books, she was well enough prepared to not be a complete embarrassment to Magnus in front of his peers, though the voice in the back of her mind continued to whisper insidiously.
Upon entering the Dikastirio, she found it sparsely populated at first, with her brother nowhere in sight. The corner of her lip tugged nervously for a moment, as she folded her hands in an effort not to fidget with her dress. It was not her first time in the Dikastirio, having seen Magnus at work more than once over the years in the captial, but it was adorned quite differently for such an occasion.
After walking not too far from the entrance to admire the room, a servant offered her a finely decorated cup of wine, which she accepted if only to have something to preoccupy her hands. Magnus had warned her about imbibing too much, particularly at courtly occasions, but on the same hand, the last thing she wanted to do was to insult the royal hosts by refusing to accept anything at all.
Not wanting to stand in the middle of the room looking terribly lost, she began to wander along the edges of the room, taking the time to admire the artwork and sculptures depicting ancient royals and others of note, preoccupying herself with reading the engravings on each piece. It was an excellent way to keep an eye on the room around her. The issue arose in that she found herself more engaged in the history along the walls of the Dikastirio than initially intended, reading intently each of the engravings and taking note of the detail within the artwork. She lost sense of time, and by the time she turned around, the number of people within the room had nearly tripled, and by the gods, she had managed to miss the entrance of Queen Yianni entirely.
Once again a part of the world, she glanced around, having a moderate advantage over many with her height, to find her brother far across the room. It would be nearly impossible to reach him without practically swimming through the crowd and simply waving an arm for his attention was completely out of the question. Taking a breath and ensuring her posture was straight, she tried to find the clearest pathway through the milling nobles and retainers, hesitation winning when it came to trying to take a step forward.
At this rate, she pondered how likely it was for her cowardice to cause her to live out the rest of the night along the wall.
As soon as the missive arrived from her brother, Leto found herself in a flurry of action. Yes, there was time before the event, but as always and as with anything in her life, she wished she were better prepared. One of the household servants offered assistance and soothing words as they looked over the new chiton.
Magnus had outdone himself. The chiton was a beautiful blue-grey garment with fabric so light it seemed seemed to flutter and billow with every small motion. It was cut in a new fashion from Taengea - one that took a short while for both Leto and the servant to figure out before affixing it properly. Once it was attached and secured, draping gracefully over her lithe figure, the silver embroidering shimmering with each ripple in the fabric, the servant began the arduous task of pinning and securing her hair.
No pins in Colchis, she imagined, were strong enough to bind down her thick curls, and through the use of many oils and tight braids, they managed an elegant hairstyle, with part of her hair braided and wrapped around the crown of her head and the remainder, smoothed to cascade over her shoulder. Finally adorned with two fine silver pins above her temples, it was considered done.
The carriage ride to the Dikastirio was brief, but not brief enough to prevent her mind from wandering. This would be her first time attending court at her brother's invitation. For years, she had not put much thought into stepping into her brother's world and had been content to toe the line between their modest upbringing and their introduction to higher society. Within the last year or so, she began to take an interest in doing so. Many lessons and sessions with etiquette tutors and others later, she supposed that, by the books, she was well enough prepared to not be a complete embarrassment to Magnus in front of his peers, though the voice in the back of her mind continued to whisper insidiously.
Upon entering the Dikastirio, she found it sparsely populated at first, with her brother nowhere in sight. The corner of her lip tugged nervously for a moment, as she folded her hands in an effort not to fidget with her dress. It was not her first time in the Dikastirio, having seen Magnus at work more than once over the years in the captial, but it was adorned quite differently for such an occasion.
After walking not too far from the entrance to admire the room, a servant offered her a finely decorated cup of wine, which she accepted if only to have something to preoccupy her hands. Magnus had warned her about imbibing too much, particularly at courtly occasions, but on the same hand, the last thing she wanted to do was to insult the royal hosts by refusing to accept anything at all.
Not wanting to stand in the middle of the room looking terribly lost, she began to wander along the edges of the room, taking the time to admire the artwork and sculptures depicting ancient royals and others of note, preoccupying herself with reading the engravings on each piece. It was an excellent way to keep an eye on the room around her. The issue arose in that she found herself more engaged in the history along the walls of the Dikastirio than initially intended, reading intently each of the engravings and taking note of the detail within the artwork. She lost sense of time, and by the time she turned around, the number of people within the room had nearly tripled, and by the gods, she had managed to miss the entrance of Queen Yianni entirely.
Once again a part of the world, she glanced around, having a moderate advantage over many with her height, to find her brother far across the room. It would be nearly impossible to reach him without practically swimming through the crowd and simply waving an arm for his attention was completely out of the question. Taking a breath and ensuring her posture was straight, she tried to find the clearest pathway through the milling nobles and retainers, hesitation winning when it came to trying to take a step forward.
At this rate, she pondered how likely it was for her cowardice to cause her to live out the rest of the night along the wall.
Being left behind was the worst. Or at least in Philippos mind, he was destined to stay behind instead of traveling to the lush and exotic Taengea. He would have been able to meet new, beautiful women to tell his many, many stories. However, he stayed in Midas. He had been sulking for what was probably only about a day or two, but felt like a year when he had heard the news that there would be a session of court held. If there was anything to lift the spirits of Philippos, it was the idea of free alcohol, free food, and all the noble eligible ladies crowded together in one spot. It was what dreams were made of.
There was a downside. Pos stood with his underclothing on staring at the armor he would have to wear to present himself in front of so many important people. It was the pieces that would tell everyone he was a commander and not just some soldier off the street. Which he was. There was no marrying any of the noble women he spoke with or flirted with, not unless they wanted to ruin their reputation and abandon their houses. It was maybe a little romantic, but it worked out well for Philippos. He didn't want commitment anyway. He shrugged on the armor. He shook it around until it fell upon his muscles in the most comfortable way. If that was even possible. It was accompanied by a quick eye roll as he slid his sword into its sheath to make his way down to where the Queen was hosting.
Philippos only nodded to those that he passed as he moved into where the people were already moving around. He had never been great with punctuality. A running joke between far too many and himself. Why would he change that now? With so many already attending and greeting the Queen, it was hardly be seen as a slight. He could have been there for a while and no one would see the difference. Instead, confidence was everything. His shoulders were held high as he walked through the crowd and finally near the royal family.
Lips quickly curved into a bright smile as he bowed his head and his body to the Queen. "Your Majesty." He greeted as so many others had. Merely a bow, armor clanking as he lowered himself and then came up. Philippos didn't have a grievance to share, not one that the Queen of Colchis should be bothered with. He had plenty of things to complain about regularly, but this wasn't the appropriate place. Instead, he moved out of the way so others would be able to interact with her. Down the line, there were Zanon and Evras. The first made him smile, the next, well that all depended on how Zanon was doing with his wife lately. Philippos was always a loyal and supportive friend. "Evening, your highnesses." He nodded and spoke in a certain official tone. That could almost be thought of as playing, but not in a disrespectful sort of way.
"We should meet later. Right now, I will indulge on the kindness of the Kotas." He gave a nod. There was usually a point in the night where the ladies would retire one way and the men in another. Course, Philippos was unsure how that would all work considering it was just hosted with the one man. They were almost like statues ready to serve their people... Philippos was more interested in making sure he got a drink into his hand. He bowed again before taking a step back.
He circled the outside of the room, it was an easy way to look at all that was there. The heat in the room starting to bother at the hems of his clothes. Philippos paused to adjust his armor, thankfully interrupted by a passing tray. He welcomed the glass into his hand with his gaze passing over the servant as though they were invisible. Instead, his attention was soon admiring a lady he had never seen before. One that looked as though she might be alone and one that he felt he should introduce himself to.
Philippos was close to the wall and put himself next to her. For only a moment, he watched her gaze to the artwork she was examining. "Is this your first time in attendance to court in Midas, your ladyship?" A brow raised up as he questioned. His voice was pleasant as he always had a friendly tone with everyone.
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Being left behind was the worst. Or at least in Philippos mind, he was destined to stay behind instead of traveling to the lush and exotic Taengea. He would have been able to meet new, beautiful women to tell his many, many stories. However, he stayed in Midas. He had been sulking for what was probably only about a day or two, but felt like a year when he had heard the news that there would be a session of court held. If there was anything to lift the spirits of Philippos, it was the idea of free alcohol, free food, and all the noble eligible ladies crowded together in one spot. It was what dreams were made of.
There was a downside. Pos stood with his underclothing on staring at the armor he would have to wear to present himself in front of so many important people. It was the pieces that would tell everyone he was a commander and not just some soldier off the street. Which he was. There was no marrying any of the noble women he spoke with or flirted with, not unless they wanted to ruin their reputation and abandon their houses. It was maybe a little romantic, but it worked out well for Philippos. He didn't want commitment anyway. He shrugged on the armor. He shook it around until it fell upon his muscles in the most comfortable way. If that was even possible. It was accompanied by a quick eye roll as he slid his sword into its sheath to make his way down to where the Queen was hosting.
Philippos only nodded to those that he passed as he moved into where the people were already moving around. He had never been great with punctuality. A running joke between far too many and himself. Why would he change that now? With so many already attending and greeting the Queen, it was hardly be seen as a slight. He could have been there for a while and no one would see the difference. Instead, confidence was everything. His shoulders were held high as he walked through the crowd and finally near the royal family.
Lips quickly curved into a bright smile as he bowed his head and his body to the Queen. "Your Majesty." He greeted as so many others had. Merely a bow, armor clanking as he lowered himself and then came up. Philippos didn't have a grievance to share, not one that the Queen of Colchis should be bothered with. He had plenty of things to complain about regularly, but this wasn't the appropriate place. Instead, he moved out of the way so others would be able to interact with her. Down the line, there were Zanon and Evras. The first made him smile, the next, well that all depended on how Zanon was doing with his wife lately. Philippos was always a loyal and supportive friend. "Evening, your highnesses." He nodded and spoke in a certain official tone. That could almost be thought of as playing, but not in a disrespectful sort of way.
"We should meet later. Right now, I will indulge on the kindness of the Kotas." He gave a nod. There was usually a point in the night where the ladies would retire one way and the men in another. Course, Philippos was unsure how that would all work considering it was just hosted with the one man. They were almost like statues ready to serve their people... Philippos was more interested in making sure he got a drink into his hand. He bowed again before taking a step back.
He circled the outside of the room, it was an easy way to look at all that was there. The heat in the room starting to bother at the hems of his clothes. Philippos paused to adjust his armor, thankfully interrupted by a passing tray. He welcomed the glass into his hand with his gaze passing over the servant as though they were invisible. Instead, his attention was soon admiring a lady he had never seen before. One that looked as though she might be alone and one that he felt he should introduce himself to.
Philippos was close to the wall and put himself next to her. For only a moment, he watched her gaze to the artwork she was examining. "Is this your first time in attendance to court in Midas, your ladyship?" A brow raised up as he questioned. His voice was pleasant as he always had a friendly tone with everyone.
Being left behind was the worst. Or at least in Philippos mind, he was destined to stay behind instead of traveling to the lush and exotic Taengea. He would have been able to meet new, beautiful women to tell his many, many stories. However, he stayed in Midas. He had been sulking for what was probably only about a day or two, but felt like a year when he had heard the news that there would be a session of court held. If there was anything to lift the spirits of Philippos, it was the idea of free alcohol, free food, and all the noble eligible ladies crowded together in one spot. It was what dreams were made of.
There was a downside. Pos stood with his underclothing on staring at the armor he would have to wear to present himself in front of so many important people. It was the pieces that would tell everyone he was a commander and not just some soldier off the street. Which he was. There was no marrying any of the noble women he spoke with or flirted with, not unless they wanted to ruin their reputation and abandon their houses. It was maybe a little romantic, but it worked out well for Philippos. He didn't want commitment anyway. He shrugged on the armor. He shook it around until it fell upon his muscles in the most comfortable way. If that was even possible. It was accompanied by a quick eye roll as he slid his sword into its sheath to make his way down to where the Queen was hosting.
Philippos only nodded to those that he passed as he moved into where the people were already moving around. He had never been great with punctuality. A running joke between far too many and himself. Why would he change that now? With so many already attending and greeting the Queen, it was hardly be seen as a slight. He could have been there for a while and no one would see the difference. Instead, confidence was everything. His shoulders were held high as he walked through the crowd and finally near the royal family.
Lips quickly curved into a bright smile as he bowed his head and his body to the Queen. "Your Majesty." He greeted as so many others had. Merely a bow, armor clanking as he lowered himself and then came up. Philippos didn't have a grievance to share, not one that the Queen of Colchis should be bothered with. He had plenty of things to complain about regularly, but this wasn't the appropriate place. Instead, he moved out of the way so others would be able to interact with her. Down the line, there were Zanon and Evras. The first made him smile, the next, well that all depended on how Zanon was doing with his wife lately. Philippos was always a loyal and supportive friend. "Evening, your highnesses." He nodded and spoke in a certain official tone. That could almost be thought of as playing, but not in a disrespectful sort of way.
"We should meet later. Right now, I will indulge on the kindness of the Kotas." He gave a nod. There was usually a point in the night where the ladies would retire one way and the men in another. Course, Philippos was unsure how that would all work considering it was just hosted with the one man. They were almost like statues ready to serve their people... Philippos was more interested in making sure he got a drink into his hand. He bowed again before taking a step back.
He circled the outside of the room, it was an easy way to look at all that was there. The heat in the room starting to bother at the hems of his clothes. Philippos paused to adjust his armor, thankfully interrupted by a passing tray. He welcomed the glass into his hand with his gaze passing over the servant as though they were invisible. Instead, his attention was soon admiring a lady he had never seen before. One that looked as though she might be alone and one that he felt he should introduce himself to.
Philippos was close to the wall and put himself next to her. For only a moment, he watched her gaze to the artwork she was examining. "Is this your first time in attendance to court in Midas, your ladyship?" A brow raised up as he questioned. His voice was pleasant as he always had a friendly tone with everyone.
Perhaps taking a few sips of wine would give her the mental fortitude to cross the room. Then, again, she did not want to risk the wine going to her head on such an important evening. One little sip would not hurt, she thought, as she turned herself to face the engravings on the wall once more. With time, Magnus would likely spot her and come to her rescue, she was certain. She was also certain that at his side, making her first appearance before the Queen of Colchis and his other noble and royal peers would be much easier. It was not something she looked forward to doing on her own.
Taking another quick nip of wine, she felt rather than saw the soldier next to her. Her wrist instinctively moved to dab at her lips a moment before offering a practiced smile. Bright, round eyes immediately glanced from the man's face to his armor and ranking - a Commander, she believed, if her memory of insignias from the tutor's tomes were correct. His tone was soft and quite amiable, catching her only slightly off guard and allowing her smile to soften a touch. With a slight shift, she checked her posture once more and inclined her head as she gave a curtsy before shyly rising.
"Commander," she replied, hoping that the title did in fact match the rank. She offered a soft, nervous laugh and a small shrug before asking, "Tell me...is it terribly obvious?" Not having perfected the erasure of her inner thoughts from her face, her brows lifted and pinched a bit in the middle out of concern.
Magnus had spent a good deal on giving her excellent tutors to prepare her for a day like this, and she loathed the thought of all that work and expense being for nothing. Even though the past several years had her adjusted to life in a larger city in a home where others worked in service to the household alongside her as she learned the ins-and-outs of caring for an upper-level estate, she had long postponed this final step into the social realm. For the briefest moment, she wondered if she should have taken the time to offer a quick prayer or offering to Athena for guidance and wisdom for this night. It might be too late now...
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This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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Perhaps taking a few sips of wine would give her the mental fortitude to cross the room. Then, again, she did not want to risk the wine going to her head on such an important evening. One little sip would not hurt, she thought, as she turned herself to face the engravings on the wall once more. With time, Magnus would likely spot her and come to her rescue, she was certain. She was also certain that at his side, making her first appearance before the Queen of Colchis and his other noble and royal peers would be much easier. It was not something she looked forward to doing on her own.
Taking another quick nip of wine, she felt rather than saw the soldier next to her. Her wrist instinctively moved to dab at her lips a moment before offering a practiced smile. Bright, round eyes immediately glanced from the man's face to his armor and ranking - a Commander, she believed, if her memory of insignias from the tutor's tomes were correct. His tone was soft and quite amiable, catching her only slightly off guard and allowing her smile to soften a touch. With a slight shift, she checked her posture once more and inclined her head as she gave a curtsy before shyly rising.
"Commander," she replied, hoping that the title did in fact match the rank. She offered a soft, nervous laugh and a small shrug before asking, "Tell me...is it terribly obvious?" Not having perfected the erasure of her inner thoughts from her face, her brows lifted and pinched a bit in the middle out of concern.
Magnus had spent a good deal on giving her excellent tutors to prepare her for a day like this, and she loathed the thought of all that work and expense being for nothing. Even though the past several years had her adjusted to life in a larger city in a home where others worked in service to the household alongside her as she learned the ins-and-outs of caring for an upper-level estate, she had long postponed this final step into the social realm. For the briefest moment, she wondered if she should have taken the time to offer a quick prayer or offering to Athena for guidance and wisdom for this night. It might be too late now...
Perhaps taking a few sips of wine would give her the mental fortitude to cross the room. Then, again, she did not want to risk the wine going to her head on such an important evening. One little sip would not hurt, she thought, as she turned herself to face the engravings on the wall once more. With time, Magnus would likely spot her and come to her rescue, she was certain. She was also certain that at his side, making her first appearance before the Queen of Colchis and his other noble and royal peers would be much easier. It was not something she looked forward to doing on her own.
Taking another quick nip of wine, she felt rather than saw the soldier next to her. Her wrist instinctively moved to dab at her lips a moment before offering a practiced smile. Bright, round eyes immediately glanced from the man's face to his armor and ranking - a Commander, she believed, if her memory of insignias from the tutor's tomes were correct. His tone was soft and quite amiable, catching her only slightly off guard and allowing her smile to soften a touch. With a slight shift, she checked her posture once more and inclined her head as she gave a curtsy before shyly rising.
"Commander," she replied, hoping that the title did in fact match the rank. She offered a soft, nervous laugh and a small shrug before asking, "Tell me...is it terribly obvious?" Not having perfected the erasure of her inner thoughts from her face, her brows lifted and pinched a bit in the middle out of concern.
Magnus had spent a good deal on giving her excellent tutors to prepare her for a day like this, and she loathed the thought of all that work and expense being for nothing. Even though the past several years had her adjusted to life in a larger city in a home where others worked in service to the household alongside her as she learned the ins-and-outs of caring for an upper-level estate, she had long postponed this final step into the social realm. For the briefest moment, she wondered if she should have taken the time to offer a quick prayer or offering to Athena for guidance and wisdom for this night. It might be too late now...
On the arms of her husband, Evras entered the resplendent dikasitrio upon their carriage ride from the Kotas residence - a short distance away, yet Evras could not walk the way when dressed in her jewels and the light circlet on her head - a crown she felt growing heavier by the day, the more her sisters spoke to her.
Yet for the night, Evras chose to ignore the circlet, and instead kept her hands in her husband's grasp, drawing strength from Zanon's presence. Court sessions had never been her favorite - the gossips of her marriage with Zanon had never truly been quelled, and had only been stronger over her husband's actions the past three years. Despite their show of unity and strength and the way he doted on her at the harbor festival, Evras knew there was quite some ways to go as of yet. The whisper had simmered down, but they have yet to be complete extinguished.
But she can do it. Thanasi's were made of stronger ilk, and Evras is unlikely to back down as of yet.
The Dikasitrio was bright with lamps and torches, yards of silk draped across to give the affair an even more polished look. Tables were laid with food, and slaves and maids alike wandered the chamber to serve the members of nobility wine and mead as they preferred. It was to this visage that Evras entered on her husband's arm. Following Zanon's lead, the princess nodded to a few who she knew, but made the beeline for the Queen as was custom. Upon her husband stepping up next to his mother, Evras too made a quick curtsy, greeting the Queen with a smile before stepping to stand next to her husband. Her eyes wandered to search the ballroom, seeking out dark heads similar to her own. Evras had warned her brothers to attend - Nethis would be unhappy to find out the Thanasi siblings skipped a court session simply because she was in Taengea.
So now, her pale blue-green eyes searched for the familiar looks of her brothers, and smiled when she spotted the dark head of Mihail approaching the Queen. Her eyes remained on him as he made his formal introduction, and then grinned when he began making a beeline for her. Giggling as he greeted her with a kiss, Evras leaned back, and nodded when the younger Thanasi addressed her son's training. Dion was getting better by the day - or so his father tells her. She had yet to visit Dion while he trained, yet something told her not to. A territory mainly for the male of the kingdom, Evras remained within the Kotas mansions whenever Dion was out wit his uncles or aunt. What she's heard, she's heard from Zanon or from Dion himself.
But it was enough to make Evras proud as punch of her son. "Dion takes after his aunts and uncles, it seems." she replied with an easy smile, insinuating both her own families' penchant for archery, as well as Asia and Silas's skill at the bow. Having been married close to ten years now, Evras was beginning to be quite well at walking the line between her two families.
Turning to give another curtsy to the Queen and a kiss to Zanon's cheek, Evras slung her arms in the crook of Mihail's arms, and led her younger brother off. It was her chance to escpae standing in the spotlight all day, a position she thoroughly hated. Plus, while the folk would bring issues and problems to Yanni to handle, Zanon would have to escort her as the next highest ranking male now with Vangelis and the King gone. But that didn't mean Evras had to remain there. She still had to mingle and connect with the nobility, so Evras thought she may as well do it with her brother in tow.
"Is Dysius and Thea coming on their own then?"
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This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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On the arms of her husband, Evras entered the resplendent dikasitrio upon their carriage ride from the Kotas residence - a short distance away, yet Evras could not walk the way when dressed in her jewels and the light circlet on her head - a crown she felt growing heavier by the day, the more her sisters spoke to her.
Yet for the night, Evras chose to ignore the circlet, and instead kept her hands in her husband's grasp, drawing strength from Zanon's presence. Court sessions had never been her favorite - the gossips of her marriage with Zanon had never truly been quelled, and had only been stronger over her husband's actions the past three years. Despite their show of unity and strength and the way he doted on her at the harbor festival, Evras knew there was quite some ways to go as of yet. The whisper had simmered down, but they have yet to be complete extinguished.
But she can do it. Thanasi's were made of stronger ilk, and Evras is unlikely to back down as of yet.
The Dikasitrio was bright with lamps and torches, yards of silk draped across to give the affair an even more polished look. Tables were laid with food, and slaves and maids alike wandered the chamber to serve the members of nobility wine and mead as they preferred. It was to this visage that Evras entered on her husband's arm. Following Zanon's lead, the princess nodded to a few who she knew, but made the beeline for the Queen as was custom. Upon her husband stepping up next to his mother, Evras too made a quick curtsy, greeting the Queen with a smile before stepping to stand next to her husband. Her eyes wandered to search the ballroom, seeking out dark heads similar to her own. Evras had warned her brothers to attend - Nethis would be unhappy to find out the Thanasi siblings skipped a court session simply because she was in Taengea.
So now, her pale blue-green eyes searched for the familiar looks of her brothers, and smiled when she spotted the dark head of Mihail approaching the Queen. Her eyes remained on him as he made his formal introduction, and then grinned when he began making a beeline for her. Giggling as he greeted her with a kiss, Evras leaned back, and nodded when the younger Thanasi addressed her son's training. Dion was getting better by the day - or so his father tells her. She had yet to visit Dion while he trained, yet something told her not to. A territory mainly for the male of the kingdom, Evras remained within the Kotas mansions whenever Dion was out wit his uncles or aunt. What she's heard, she's heard from Zanon or from Dion himself.
But it was enough to make Evras proud as punch of her son. "Dion takes after his aunts and uncles, it seems." she replied with an easy smile, insinuating both her own families' penchant for archery, as well as Asia and Silas's skill at the bow. Having been married close to ten years now, Evras was beginning to be quite well at walking the line between her two families.
Turning to give another curtsy to the Queen and a kiss to Zanon's cheek, Evras slung her arms in the crook of Mihail's arms, and led her younger brother off. It was her chance to escpae standing in the spotlight all day, a position she thoroughly hated. Plus, while the folk would bring issues and problems to Yanni to handle, Zanon would have to escort her as the next highest ranking male now with Vangelis and the King gone. But that didn't mean Evras had to remain there. She still had to mingle and connect with the nobility, so Evras thought she may as well do it with her brother in tow.
"Is Dysius and Thea coming on their own then?"
On the arms of her husband, Evras entered the resplendent dikasitrio upon their carriage ride from the Kotas residence - a short distance away, yet Evras could not walk the way when dressed in her jewels and the light circlet on her head - a crown she felt growing heavier by the day, the more her sisters spoke to her.
Yet for the night, Evras chose to ignore the circlet, and instead kept her hands in her husband's grasp, drawing strength from Zanon's presence. Court sessions had never been her favorite - the gossips of her marriage with Zanon had never truly been quelled, and had only been stronger over her husband's actions the past three years. Despite their show of unity and strength and the way he doted on her at the harbor festival, Evras knew there was quite some ways to go as of yet. The whisper had simmered down, but they have yet to be complete extinguished.
But she can do it. Thanasi's were made of stronger ilk, and Evras is unlikely to back down as of yet.
The Dikasitrio was bright with lamps and torches, yards of silk draped across to give the affair an even more polished look. Tables were laid with food, and slaves and maids alike wandered the chamber to serve the members of nobility wine and mead as they preferred. It was to this visage that Evras entered on her husband's arm. Following Zanon's lead, the princess nodded to a few who she knew, but made the beeline for the Queen as was custom. Upon her husband stepping up next to his mother, Evras too made a quick curtsy, greeting the Queen with a smile before stepping to stand next to her husband. Her eyes wandered to search the ballroom, seeking out dark heads similar to her own. Evras had warned her brothers to attend - Nethis would be unhappy to find out the Thanasi siblings skipped a court session simply because she was in Taengea.
So now, her pale blue-green eyes searched for the familiar looks of her brothers, and smiled when she spotted the dark head of Mihail approaching the Queen. Her eyes remained on him as he made his formal introduction, and then grinned when he began making a beeline for her. Giggling as he greeted her with a kiss, Evras leaned back, and nodded when the younger Thanasi addressed her son's training. Dion was getting better by the day - or so his father tells her. She had yet to visit Dion while he trained, yet something told her not to. A territory mainly for the male of the kingdom, Evras remained within the Kotas mansions whenever Dion was out wit his uncles or aunt. What she's heard, she's heard from Zanon or from Dion himself.
But it was enough to make Evras proud as punch of her son. "Dion takes after his aunts and uncles, it seems." she replied with an easy smile, insinuating both her own families' penchant for archery, as well as Asia and Silas's skill at the bow. Having been married close to ten years now, Evras was beginning to be quite well at walking the line between her two families.
Turning to give another curtsy to the Queen and a kiss to Zanon's cheek, Evras slung her arms in the crook of Mihail's arms, and led her younger brother off. It was her chance to escpae standing in the spotlight all day, a position she thoroughly hated. Plus, while the folk would bring issues and problems to Yanni to handle, Zanon would have to escort her as the next highest ranking male now with Vangelis and the King gone. But that didn't mean Evras had to remain there. She still had to mingle and connect with the nobility, so Evras thought she may as well do it with her brother in tow.
"Is Dysius and Thea coming on their own then?"
The announcement of a court session held under Queen Yanni came as music to Thea’s ears. Despite being ground into this path by her ruthless elders, namely Dionysius and Nethis, the second daughter of the Thanasi family had grown to enjoy walking the murky line of politics. It was not all rosy and colored glass at first, of course. Court was an acquired taste. It might seem like a hyperbole, but personally Thea viewed court as a jungle where everyone was a predator. And their prey? Power. See, as much as there is a food chain out there in the wild, here in the Colchian courtroom they also upheld an established hierarchy of authority: first the monarch, then their families and relatives, then trusted servants beneath them and nobility. All frequenters of the court, with their twinkling jewelry dangling off every limb and their colorful apparels, were like exotic animals. Some eagerly pranced across the marble tiles of the grand room. Some idled around among the crowd and patiently waited for the chance to pounce onto someone, perhaps in need of a favor or to propose an offering. No matter what, eyes were always alert and hungry, and the intents were thick in the air. Yet the insatiable thirst was always masked well with flowery words and hollow smiles. And since this was the jungle, there was only one true rule: whatever one did, cover the track well. One unwise decision would be all it took to get absolution.
To aptly put it, politics was an intricate performance art, one that Thea had become a passionate patron of. And there were more reasons to why today’s court was even more entertaining. Firstly, half of the Kotas family could not make an appearance. As Queen Yanni so delicately conveyed, the king had more urgent matters in the warfare aspect of the kingdom to tend to. Vangelis, their crown prince, was pursuing connections in Taengea with his sister, princess Athanasia. To be perfectly candid, the second made her sigh a breath of relief. The dynamics of her relationship with the eldest Kotas son was by no means conventional, especially when they were held to the Thanasi – Kotas standards.
Second of all, Queen Yanni had apparently taken the initiative to lead the court, going so far as announcing that she would be available to convene with all who wished to address even the most minute problem to her. In Thea’s eyes, this was nothing but a mere public relations stunt. In this time of need, when Colchis was wrecked with one upheaval after another, the matriarch put on a dutiful and hopeful front to boost morale and maintain goodwill. The little play about the perfect royal family could just warm anyone’s heart up, if the “anyone” did not know any better. And being a skeptical Thanasi, Thea wanted the front row seat to this theatrical show of diplomatic buffoonery.
All of these rampant thoughts ran through the dark-haired belle as she sat wordlessly through the ride to the dikasitrio, hands folded neatly on her lap. Her chestnut locks cascaded down her slender back like a silky waterfall and gently bounced with the movements of wooden wheels cruising down roads of Midas. Every once in a while, she would daintily lifted the corner of the curtain up to glance at the streets whipping by them outside the window and check to see where they were. Sitting across from her was Ophion, who occasionally mimicked this gesture while keeping his hand on the sword holstered at this waist, ready to draw it at any given moment if imminent danger were to greet them.
After a while, the carriage came to a half. A few seconds passed before a rhythmic knock sounded. The bodyguard cracked it open and exchanged a few hushed words with whoever was outside before shutting it again. ”We are here, my lady.”, he informed Thea. She nodded in acknowledgement to his words before reaching up to feel for her messy half bun, which was held in place and pinned together by a few flowers and hair ornaments made from gold and tiny gemstones. Then, she combed through the rest of her hair, which was worn down in wavy curls that framed her face and small shoulders. She stood up, smoothed her silk peplos dress and fixed the serpent-shaped bracelet wrapped snuggly around her upper arm. Another nod from her and Ophion opened the door of the vehicle, him exiting before her to make sure everything was fine outside.
Thea stepped down from the carriage. The tall brunette man beside her closed the door and gave it a knock to signal for the driver to take off again. They entered the building, and as soon as they did, lively chatter filled their ears. Natural light filtered through the large windows on the wall and beams of golden sunlight streamed the interiors of the room. The enticing aroma of food and wine was evident in the air. People were strewing around, the flowy fabric of their apparel softly swaying with their motions. This was it. Colchis’ elites, all gathered under one roof, met Thea’s eyes everywhere she turned. Amidst the sea of people pouring in and out of the room, she spotted two familiar raven heads. With a light spring to her steps, she closed the gap between her and her two younger siblings.Within seconds, she was within their earshot, just in time to overhear Evras asking Mihail about her. "My name was mentioned.", Thea remarked with a hint of amuse in her amber orbs, waiting for the oblivious Thanasis to realize that she was standing right behind them.
JD
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Staff Team
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The announcement of a court session held under Queen Yanni came as music to Thea’s ears. Despite being ground into this path by her ruthless elders, namely Dionysius and Nethis, the second daughter of the Thanasi family had grown to enjoy walking the murky line of politics. It was not all rosy and colored glass at first, of course. Court was an acquired taste. It might seem like a hyperbole, but personally Thea viewed court as a jungle where everyone was a predator. And their prey? Power. See, as much as there is a food chain out there in the wild, here in the Colchian courtroom they also upheld an established hierarchy of authority: first the monarch, then their families and relatives, then trusted servants beneath them and nobility. All frequenters of the court, with their twinkling jewelry dangling off every limb and their colorful apparels, were like exotic animals. Some eagerly pranced across the marble tiles of the grand room. Some idled around among the crowd and patiently waited for the chance to pounce onto someone, perhaps in need of a favor or to propose an offering. No matter what, eyes were always alert and hungry, and the intents were thick in the air. Yet the insatiable thirst was always masked well with flowery words and hollow smiles. And since this was the jungle, there was only one true rule: whatever one did, cover the track well. One unwise decision would be all it took to get absolution.
To aptly put it, politics was an intricate performance art, one that Thea had become a passionate patron of. And there were more reasons to why today’s court was even more entertaining. Firstly, half of the Kotas family could not make an appearance. As Queen Yanni so delicately conveyed, the king had more urgent matters in the warfare aspect of the kingdom to tend to. Vangelis, their crown prince, was pursuing connections in Taengea with his sister, princess Athanasia. To be perfectly candid, the second made her sigh a breath of relief. The dynamics of her relationship with the eldest Kotas son was by no means conventional, especially when they were held to the Thanasi – Kotas standards.
Second of all, Queen Yanni had apparently taken the initiative to lead the court, going so far as announcing that she would be available to convene with all who wished to address even the most minute problem to her. In Thea’s eyes, this was nothing but a mere public relations stunt. In this time of need, when Colchis was wrecked with one upheaval after another, the matriarch put on a dutiful and hopeful front to boost morale and maintain goodwill. The little play about the perfect royal family could just warm anyone’s heart up, if the “anyone” did not know any better. And being a skeptical Thanasi, Thea wanted the front row seat to this theatrical show of diplomatic buffoonery.
All of these rampant thoughts ran through the dark-haired belle as she sat wordlessly through the ride to the dikasitrio, hands folded neatly on her lap. Her chestnut locks cascaded down her slender back like a silky waterfall and gently bounced with the movements of wooden wheels cruising down roads of Midas. Every once in a while, she would daintily lifted the corner of the curtain up to glance at the streets whipping by them outside the window and check to see where they were. Sitting across from her was Ophion, who occasionally mimicked this gesture while keeping his hand on the sword holstered at this waist, ready to draw it at any given moment if imminent danger were to greet them.
After a while, the carriage came to a half. A few seconds passed before a rhythmic knock sounded. The bodyguard cracked it open and exchanged a few hushed words with whoever was outside before shutting it again. ”We are here, my lady.”, he informed Thea. She nodded in acknowledgement to his words before reaching up to feel for her messy half bun, which was held in place and pinned together by a few flowers and hair ornaments made from gold and tiny gemstones. Then, she combed through the rest of her hair, which was worn down in wavy curls that framed her face and small shoulders. She stood up, smoothed her silk peplos dress and fixed the serpent-shaped bracelet wrapped snuggly around her upper arm. Another nod from her and Ophion opened the door of the vehicle, him exiting before her to make sure everything was fine outside.
Thea stepped down from the carriage. The tall brunette man beside her closed the door and gave it a knock to signal for the driver to take off again. They entered the building, and as soon as they did, lively chatter filled their ears. Natural light filtered through the large windows on the wall and beams of golden sunlight streamed the interiors of the room. The enticing aroma of food and wine was evident in the air. People were strewing around, the flowy fabric of their apparel softly swaying with their motions. This was it. Colchis’ elites, all gathered under one roof, met Thea’s eyes everywhere she turned. Amidst the sea of people pouring in and out of the room, she spotted two familiar raven heads. With a light spring to her steps, she closed the gap between her and her two younger siblings.Within seconds, she was within their earshot, just in time to overhear Evras asking Mihail about her. "My name was mentioned.", Thea remarked with a hint of amuse in her amber orbs, waiting for the oblivious Thanasis to realize that she was standing right behind them.
The announcement of a court session held under Queen Yanni came as music to Thea’s ears. Despite being ground into this path by her ruthless elders, namely Dionysius and Nethis, the second daughter of the Thanasi family had grown to enjoy walking the murky line of politics. It was not all rosy and colored glass at first, of course. Court was an acquired taste. It might seem like a hyperbole, but personally Thea viewed court as a jungle where everyone was a predator. And their prey? Power. See, as much as there is a food chain out there in the wild, here in the Colchian courtroom they also upheld an established hierarchy of authority: first the monarch, then their families and relatives, then trusted servants beneath them and nobility. All frequenters of the court, with their twinkling jewelry dangling off every limb and their colorful apparels, were like exotic animals. Some eagerly pranced across the marble tiles of the grand room. Some idled around among the crowd and patiently waited for the chance to pounce onto someone, perhaps in need of a favor or to propose an offering. No matter what, eyes were always alert and hungry, and the intents were thick in the air. Yet the insatiable thirst was always masked well with flowery words and hollow smiles. And since this was the jungle, there was only one true rule: whatever one did, cover the track well. One unwise decision would be all it took to get absolution.
To aptly put it, politics was an intricate performance art, one that Thea had become a passionate patron of. And there were more reasons to why today’s court was even more entertaining. Firstly, half of the Kotas family could not make an appearance. As Queen Yanni so delicately conveyed, the king had more urgent matters in the warfare aspect of the kingdom to tend to. Vangelis, their crown prince, was pursuing connections in Taengea with his sister, princess Athanasia. To be perfectly candid, the second made her sigh a breath of relief. The dynamics of her relationship with the eldest Kotas son was by no means conventional, especially when they were held to the Thanasi – Kotas standards.
Second of all, Queen Yanni had apparently taken the initiative to lead the court, going so far as announcing that she would be available to convene with all who wished to address even the most minute problem to her. In Thea’s eyes, this was nothing but a mere public relations stunt. In this time of need, when Colchis was wrecked with one upheaval after another, the matriarch put on a dutiful and hopeful front to boost morale and maintain goodwill. The little play about the perfect royal family could just warm anyone’s heart up, if the “anyone” did not know any better. And being a skeptical Thanasi, Thea wanted the front row seat to this theatrical show of diplomatic buffoonery.
All of these rampant thoughts ran through the dark-haired belle as she sat wordlessly through the ride to the dikasitrio, hands folded neatly on her lap. Her chestnut locks cascaded down her slender back like a silky waterfall and gently bounced with the movements of wooden wheels cruising down roads of Midas. Every once in a while, she would daintily lifted the corner of the curtain up to glance at the streets whipping by them outside the window and check to see where they were. Sitting across from her was Ophion, who occasionally mimicked this gesture while keeping his hand on the sword holstered at this waist, ready to draw it at any given moment if imminent danger were to greet them.
After a while, the carriage came to a half. A few seconds passed before a rhythmic knock sounded. The bodyguard cracked it open and exchanged a few hushed words with whoever was outside before shutting it again. ”We are here, my lady.”, he informed Thea. She nodded in acknowledgement to his words before reaching up to feel for her messy half bun, which was held in place and pinned together by a few flowers and hair ornaments made from gold and tiny gemstones. Then, she combed through the rest of her hair, which was worn down in wavy curls that framed her face and small shoulders. She stood up, smoothed her silk peplos dress and fixed the serpent-shaped bracelet wrapped snuggly around her upper arm. Another nod from her and Ophion opened the door of the vehicle, him exiting before her to make sure everything was fine outside.
Thea stepped down from the carriage. The tall brunette man beside her closed the door and gave it a knock to signal for the driver to take off again. They entered the building, and as soon as they did, lively chatter filled their ears. Natural light filtered through the large windows on the wall and beams of golden sunlight streamed the interiors of the room. The enticing aroma of food and wine was evident in the air. People were strewing around, the flowy fabric of their apparel softly swaying with their motions. This was it. Colchis’ elites, all gathered under one roof, met Thea’s eyes everywhere she turned. Amidst the sea of people pouring in and out of the room, she spotted two familiar raven heads. With a light spring to her steps, she closed the gap between her and her two younger siblings.Within seconds, she was within their earshot, just in time to overhear Evras asking Mihail about her. "My name was mentioned.", Thea remarked with a hint of amuse in her amber orbs, waiting for the oblivious Thanasis to realize that she was standing right behind them.
His hand reached out at a passing tray picking off a few of the olive treats. He popped one in his mouth and then another as the woman he had greeted responded to him. Philippos shook his head and grinned just a moment. He had to finish eating what he had taken. This was the perfect opportunity to over indulge on all the riches he didn’t get when he was out on the battlefield. Not to mention, if he didn’t get sustenance to combat the amount of wine he was planning on drinking, well they would all be in for a rather interesting show. Nike wasn’t here to keep him in check and neither was Vangelis. That just plain spelled disaster.
”No, no. Of course not. I just meant. With as beautiful as you are, I would have seen you before.” That lopsided grin hopefully would ease her mind. Or it was just too obvious a line. Pos was known for either making things better with his kindness, or basically just shoving his foot in his mouth. If she was newer to court, he might have lucked out. ”That color is stunning. It stopped me.” He offered further. It wasn’t hard to stop Philippos, but of all the young ladies in the room, he had stopped to speak with Leto.
A look right and then left over the rim of his glass before putting his attention directly back on her brown hair. There was time and detail put into it. She was a lady of some stature, but he couldn’t place the house. And just when he thought he had all the rich families figured out in Colchis. ”Are you alone tonight?” An interesting question, especially since it came before any sort of introduction. Maybe it was because she had already called him commander. Or he was just more interested if she was alone than anything else. He didn’t want to get punched. Also, something that he had a habit of receiving.
”My manners, I am Philippos of Elimea, Commander in the Red Knights.” They were Vangelis’ group. He was left behind to take care of what needed to be. He was at Zanon’s beck and call, if the other Prince needed anything. It was fine. The Kotas family was like a second family for himself. Which was good because his family sucked. He would catch up with Zanon later, but for now it was all about networking with the ladies - or the worst would happen. Philippos would be alone for the night.
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His hand reached out at a passing tray picking off a few of the olive treats. He popped one in his mouth and then another as the woman he had greeted responded to him. Philippos shook his head and grinned just a moment. He had to finish eating what he had taken. This was the perfect opportunity to over indulge on all the riches he didn’t get when he was out on the battlefield. Not to mention, if he didn’t get sustenance to combat the amount of wine he was planning on drinking, well they would all be in for a rather interesting show. Nike wasn’t here to keep him in check and neither was Vangelis. That just plain spelled disaster.
”No, no. Of course not. I just meant. With as beautiful as you are, I would have seen you before.” That lopsided grin hopefully would ease her mind. Or it was just too obvious a line. Pos was known for either making things better with his kindness, or basically just shoving his foot in his mouth. If she was newer to court, he might have lucked out. ”That color is stunning. It stopped me.” He offered further. It wasn’t hard to stop Philippos, but of all the young ladies in the room, he had stopped to speak with Leto.
A look right and then left over the rim of his glass before putting his attention directly back on her brown hair. There was time and detail put into it. She was a lady of some stature, but he couldn’t place the house. And just when he thought he had all the rich families figured out in Colchis. ”Are you alone tonight?” An interesting question, especially since it came before any sort of introduction. Maybe it was because she had already called him commander. Or he was just more interested if she was alone than anything else. He didn’t want to get punched. Also, something that he had a habit of receiving.
”My manners, I am Philippos of Elimea, Commander in the Red Knights.” They were Vangelis’ group. He was left behind to take care of what needed to be. He was at Zanon’s beck and call, if the other Prince needed anything. It was fine. The Kotas family was like a second family for himself. Which was good because his family sucked. He would catch up with Zanon later, but for now it was all about networking with the ladies - or the worst would happen. Philippos would be alone for the night.
His hand reached out at a passing tray picking off a few of the olive treats. He popped one in his mouth and then another as the woman he had greeted responded to him. Philippos shook his head and grinned just a moment. He had to finish eating what he had taken. This was the perfect opportunity to over indulge on all the riches he didn’t get when he was out on the battlefield. Not to mention, if he didn’t get sustenance to combat the amount of wine he was planning on drinking, well they would all be in for a rather interesting show. Nike wasn’t here to keep him in check and neither was Vangelis. That just plain spelled disaster.
”No, no. Of course not. I just meant. With as beautiful as you are, I would have seen you before.” That lopsided grin hopefully would ease her mind. Or it was just too obvious a line. Pos was known for either making things better with his kindness, or basically just shoving his foot in his mouth. If she was newer to court, he might have lucked out. ”That color is stunning. It stopped me.” He offered further. It wasn’t hard to stop Philippos, but of all the young ladies in the room, he had stopped to speak with Leto.
A look right and then left over the rim of his glass before putting his attention directly back on her brown hair. There was time and detail put into it. She was a lady of some stature, but he couldn’t place the house. And just when he thought he had all the rich families figured out in Colchis. ”Are you alone tonight?” An interesting question, especially since it came before any sort of introduction. Maybe it was because she had already called him commander. Or he was just more interested if she was alone than anything else. He didn’t want to get punched. Also, something that he had a habit of receiving.
”My manners, I am Philippos of Elimea, Commander in the Red Knights.” They were Vangelis’ group. He was left behind to take care of what needed to be. He was at Zanon’s beck and call, if the other Prince needed anything. It was fine. The Kotas family was like a second family for himself. Which was good because his family sucked. He would catch up with Zanon later, but for now it was all about networking with the ladies - or the worst would happen. Philippos would be alone for the night.
It had been a confusing few weeks. From her impromptu trip to Taengea, to the tryst on the boat with Magnus, and the silence that followed after, Iolanthe wasn’t entirely sure where she stood. He had sent her a note, but it had simply been a brief explanation for his lack of communication. Nothing in regard to their time on the ship, nothing about when he might see her again or if he had any desire to see her again or pursue anything further. When she had returned home the young widow had been half giddy at the prospect of feeling something, being with him was something unlike she had ever felt with a man and for a moment she had fooled herself into thinking that perhaps he could be a choice. She had to marry, someone without a title would be the best choice to avoid any inheritance issues, and Magnus had no title.
On their voyage he had been nothing but kind and respectful, clever and honorable all in one, and he held the confidence of the royal family which to her spoke volumes. If she could ensure that her family’s line continued and kept hold of the barony it would be her greatest triumph. To become a matriarch though required a partner that would match her ambitions and help shape the Arcanes barony into one of the most prized in Colchis. She had thought that it could be him, given the sparks she had felt in his presence and when he kissed her, but with his lack of communication, she had begun to feel rather jaded as if she had been merely a conquest instead of a prospect.
Dressing for the court meeting had been an ordeal that she had spent far too much time on. It was going to be one of her first events in public without her mourning state and would once again be an opportunity for her to present herself as an available heiress before the nobles of Colchis. Surely some second son would want an opportunity to take hold of a barony, and as long as she could maintain some sort of control and be sure that Galatea was well taken care of. Her chiton was of a pale blue and draped over one shoulder leaving the other bare with an emerald green himation to give contrast and catch the eye. Brown curls that were frequently pinned up and orderly had been left to mostly flow free down her back aside from the braided details that kept it out of her face and a diadem of silver to match the bands she’d placed around her arms.
Stepping from the carriage, Iolanthe was all smiles as she entered the room, nodding to those few she recognized and approaching the queen before all others. As she curtseyed deeply and kissed the elegant woman’s hand, she couldn’t help but glance about the room, looking for dark curls that she had wound her own fingers through not more than a week ago before scolding herself mentally. He was not her focus tonight. Finding someone else was her goal. A handsome blonde man caught her eye first and she approached even as he spoke to another dark haired woman whose face she couldn’t see until it was too late. Without allowing her smile to falter, Iolanthe recognized Leto of Chaossis too late to withdraw and take another track.
”Hello miss Leto, I didn’t expect to see you here. Welcome to court.” Greeting accomplished, with what she hoped was the proper title for the master informer’s sister, she turned to the commander with a slightly more coy smile as she gave her introduction. ”I’ve found so many faces are unfamiliar in the time since I’ve been away. I don’t suppose you could give me a tour of names so I don’t make a fool of myself? Lady Iolanthe of Peisistratos.”
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It had been a confusing few weeks. From her impromptu trip to Taengea, to the tryst on the boat with Magnus, and the silence that followed after, Iolanthe wasn’t entirely sure where she stood. He had sent her a note, but it had simply been a brief explanation for his lack of communication. Nothing in regard to their time on the ship, nothing about when he might see her again or if he had any desire to see her again or pursue anything further. When she had returned home the young widow had been half giddy at the prospect of feeling something, being with him was something unlike she had ever felt with a man and for a moment she had fooled herself into thinking that perhaps he could be a choice. She had to marry, someone without a title would be the best choice to avoid any inheritance issues, and Magnus had no title.
On their voyage he had been nothing but kind and respectful, clever and honorable all in one, and he held the confidence of the royal family which to her spoke volumes. If she could ensure that her family’s line continued and kept hold of the barony it would be her greatest triumph. To become a matriarch though required a partner that would match her ambitions and help shape the Arcanes barony into one of the most prized in Colchis. She had thought that it could be him, given the sparks she had felt in his presence and when he kissed her, but with his lack of communication, she had begun to feel rather jaded as if she had been merely a conquest instead of a prospect.
Dressing for the court meeting had been an ordeal that she had spent far too much time on. It was going to be one of her first events in public without her mourning state and would once again be an opportunity for her to present herself as an available heiress before the nobles of Colchis. Surely some second son would want an opportunity to take hold of a barony, and as long as she could maintain some sort of control and be sure that Galatea was well taken care of. Her chiton was of a pale blue and draped over one shoulder leaving the other bare with an emerald green himation to give contrast and catch the eye. Brown curls that were frequently pinned up and orderly had been left to mostly flow free down her back aside from the braided details that kept it out of her face and a diadem of silver to match the bands she’d placed around her arms.
Stepping from the carriage, Iolanthe was all smiles as she entered the room, nodding to those few she recognized and approaching the queen before all others. As she curtseyed deeply and kissed the elegant woman’s hand, she couldn’t help but glance about the room, looking for dark curls that she had wound her own fingers through not more than a week ago before scolding herself mentally. He was not her focus tonight. Finding someone else was her goal. A handsome blonde man caught her eye first and she approached even as he spoke to another dark haired woman whose face she couldn’t see until it was too late. Without allowing her smile to falter, Iolanthe recognized Leto of Chaossis too late to withdraw and take another track.
”Hello miss Leto, I didn’t expect to see you here. Welcome to court.” Greeting accomplished, with what she hoped was the proper title for the master informer’s sister, she turned to the commander with a slightly more coy smile as she gave her introduction. ”I’ve found so many faces are unfamiliar in the time since I’ve been away. I don’t suppose you could give me a tour of names so I don’t make a fool of myself? Lady Iolanthe of Peisistratos.”
It had been a confusing few weeks. From her impromptu trip to Taengea, to the tryst on the boat with Magnus, and the silence that followed after, Iolanthe wasn’t entirely sure where she stood. He had sent her a note, but it had simply been a brief explanation for his lack of communication. Nothing in regard to their time on the ship, nothing about when he might see her again or if he had any desire to see her again or pursue anything further. When she had returned home the young widow had been half giddy at the prospect of feeling something, being with him was something unlike she had ever felt with a man and for a moment she had fooled herself into thinking that perhaps he could be a choice. She had to marry, someone without a title would be the best choice to avoid any inheritance issues, and Magnus had no title.
On their voyage he had been nothing but kind and respectful, clever and honorable all in one, and he held the confidence of the royal family which to her spoke volumes. If she could ensure that her family’s line continued and kept hold of the barony it would be her greatest triumph. To become a matriarch though required a partner that would match her ambitions and help shape the Arcanes barony into one of the most prized in Colchis. She had thought that it could be him, given the sparks she had felt in his presence and when he kissed her, but with his lack of communication, she had begun to feel rather jaded as if she had been merely a conquest instead of a prospect.
Dressing for the court meeting had been an ordeal that she had spent far too much time on. It was going to be one of her first events in public without her mourning state and would once again be an opportunity for her to present herself as an available heiress before the nobles of Colchis. Surely some second son would want an opportunity to take hold of a barony, and as long as she could maintain some sort of control and be sure that Galatea was well taken care of. Her chiton was of a pale blue and draped over one shoulder leaving the other bare with an emerald green himation to give contrast and catch the eye. Brown curls that were frequently pinned up and orderly had been left to mostly flow free down her back aside from the braided details that kept it out of her face and a diadem of silver to match the bands she’d placed around her arms.
Stepping from the carriage, Iolanthe was all smiles as she entered the room, nodding to those few she recognized and approaching the queen before all others. As she curtseyed deeply and kissed the elegant woman’s hand, she couldn’t help but glance about the room, looking for dark curls that she had wound her own fingers through not more than a week ago before scolding herself mentally. He was not her focus tonight. Finding someone else was her goal. A handsome blonde man caught her eye first and she approached even as he spoke to another dark haired woman whose face she couldn’t see until it was too late. Without allowing her smile to falter, Iolanthe recognized Leto of Chaossis too late to withdraw and take another track.
”Hello miss Leto, I didn’t expect to see you here. Welcome to court.” Greeting accomplished, with what she hoped was the proper title for the master informer’s sister, she turned to the commander with a slightly more coy smile as she gave her introduction. ”I’ve found so many faces are unfamiliar in the time since I’ve been away. I don’t suppose you could give me a tour of names so I don’t make a fool of myself? Lady Iolanthe of Peisistratos.”
The spymaster had moved to greet the Queen and Prince Zanon with his wife when they had entered, making a mental note to inform the prince on what his travels to Taengea had provided him with upon witnessing the coronation of the new King and Queen. Granted, it was no big information, but he had missed Vangelis's departure, and his thoughts as well as further information he had gained from his followers on the ground meant such sensitive information could be on written paper, and as such he would first have to update Zanon, before Vangelis's return. That the King was coronated was common knowledge. But what Magnus wished to inform was the wary way in which he saw Stephanos move, the subtle body language, everything he had picked up from witnessing the ceremony and subsequent court session and gossip from there.
With the faint memory of the King dealing with the loud-mouthed royal lord back in Vasiliadon a week and a half ago, Magnus faintly notice the entrance of a lady whose dark hair was not unsimilar to his own, with a chiton in the shade of blue-grey he was entirely too familiar with.
Despite conversing with a lord from Chaossis who had travelled to Midas for this court session, Magnus found his eyes zeroing in on his sister as he was wont to do. He was raised as Leto's protector - it was a role Magnus stepped into most comfortably.
Making his excuses to extricate himself out of the conversation, the spymaster immediately frowned when, upon turning to head to his sister's side so he could bring her to greet the Queen, the male saw a man by his side. If his memory served him correctly, the man was a Commander with the crown prince's regiment. The name slipped his mind, yet as the brother he was, Magnus was unlikely to allow just anyone to speak to his sister on such friendly terms. And the way in which the Commanders eyes lingered on his sister's frame made the dark-haired male narrow his eyes.
Quickening his step, he managed to get to their side - just as a very familiar lady appeared to speak. So focused was Magnus on Leto's interactions with the Commander, that he had not even noticed Iolanthe's arrival. A rare occurence for sure, but as his eyes finally fell on the familiar- too familiar - form of Lady Iolanthe, he felt a warmth stir in his gut, the kind she has managed to stir one too many times on their ride back.
It was to his disadvantage that things in Midas had been busy the moment he had returned. With the crown prince and the King both gone, Magnus had spend much time within the Dikasitrio to converse with colleagues and royal advisors alike in lieu of the situation in Taengea. While they were but different kingdoms, the friendly status of Colchis and Taengea meant they had to be prepared for any eventuality with the Creed happening in Taengea. As such, he had only managed to send a missive to Iolanthe in the past few days they had been back, despite sharing much closer connections on the ship. He was eager to continue such, yet as a man of responsibilities, his work held him back.
"Commander Philippos, this is my sister, Leto of Chaossis. I thank you for watching over my sister," he murmured, a friendly smile in place as he placed a hand on the small of her back and gestured at Leto to give a small curtsy. Yet his dark eyes glinted whilst he gave a shallow bow to the Commander, his tall frame towering over Philippos. It was a dangerous glint. he had seen the coy smile Iolanthe had flashed Philippos, and Magnus had not liked it one bit. He had shared an intimacy with the lady whilst they had been aboard ship, and Magnus had been eager to pursue more. Of course, he had also considered the fact that marriage to her would lead to a barony in hand, something Magnus had chased after his whole life. But that being said, he had done his own studying, and the Lord Isidore, while on his sickbed, was yet to succumb to his death. And with the matter kept close behind wraps, he wasn't entirely sure what would be the procedure even if he did offer Iolanthe marriage at this point.
While further planning was required, that did not mean he wanted to just let his plan go to waste. As such, his eyes flicked to Iolanthe next, the dark irises almost honeyed, melting with warmth when they gazed on her. Surely she has not forgotten the warmth they shared? It had been but a few days. Dipping into a bow deeper then the one he had given Philippos, the spymaster picked up Iolanthe's wrist, and placed a chaste but warm kiss on the back of her hand, as he had done the first time they had met again in the harbor's reopening.
As he straightened, his eyes held a wealth of meaning, yet he turned his attention to his sister, and directed his next query at both ladies, offering an arm to each. "We'll have to greet the Queen first. And then perhaps, some refreshments?" he murmured. "Leto, you surely remember Lady Iolanthe? I had her esteemed company on my trip to Taengea. Are you not curious to hear of the neighboring kingdom from ladies' viewpoint?"
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The spymaster had moved to greet the Queen and Prince Zanon with his wife when they had entered, making a mental note to inform the prince on what his travels to Taengea had provided him with upon witnessing the coronation of the new King and Queen. Granted, it was no big information, but he had missed Vangelis's departure, and his thoughts as well as further information he had gained from his followers on the ground meant such sensitive information could be on written paper, and as such he would first have to update Zanon, before Vangelis's return. That the King was coronated was common knowledge. But what Magnus wished to inform was the wary way in which he saw Stephanos move, the subtle body language, everything he had picked up from witnessing the ceremony and subsequent court session and gossip from there.
With the faint memory of the King dealing with the loud-mouthed royal lord back in Vasiliadon a week and a half ago, Magnus faintly notice the entrance of a lady whose dark hair was not unsimilar to his own, with a chiton in the shade of blue-grey he was entirely too familiar with.
Despite conversing with a lord from Chaossis who had travelled to Midas for this court session, Magnus found his eyes zeroing in on his sister as he was wont to do. He was raised as Leto's protector - it was a role Magnus stepped into most comfortably.
Making his excuses to extricate himself out of the conversation, the spymaster immediately frowned when, upon turning to head to his sister's side so he could bring her to greet the Queen, the male saw a man by his side. If his memory served him correctly, the man was a Commander with the crown prince's regiment. The name slipped his mind, yet as the brother he was, Magnus was unlikely to allow just anyone to speak to his sister on such friendly terms. And the way in which the Commanders eyes lingered on his sister's frame made the dark-haired male narrow his eyes.
Quickening his step, he managed to get to their side - just as a very familiar lady appeared to speak. So focused was Magnus on Leto's interactions with the Commander, that he had not even noticed Iolanthe's arrival. A rare occurence for sure, but as his eyes finally fell on the familiar- too familiar - form of Lady Iolanthe, he felt a warmth stir in his gut, the kind she has managed to stir one too many times on their ride back.
It was to his disadvantage that things in Midas had been busy the moment he had returned. With the crown prince and the King both gone, Magnus had spend much time within the Dikasitrio to converse with colleagues and royal advisors alike in lieu of the situation in Taengea. While they were but different kingdoms, the friendly status of Colchis and Taengea meant they had to be prepared for any eventuality with the Creed happening in Taengea. As such, he had only managed to send a missive to Iolanthe in the past few days they had been back, despite sharing much closer connections on the ship. He was eager to continue such, yet as a man of responsibilities, his work held him back.
"Commander Philippos, this is my sister, Leto of Chaossis. I thank you for watching over my sister," he murmured, a friendly smile in place as he placed a hand on the small of her back and gestured at Leto to give a small curtsy. Yet his dark eyes glinted whilst he gave a shallow bow to the Commander, his tall frame towering over Philippos. It was a dangerous glint. he had seen the coy smile Iolanthe had flashed Philippos, and Magnus had not liked it one bit. He had shared an intimacy with the lady whilst they had been aboard ship, and Magnus had been eager to pursue more. Of course, he had also considered the fact that marriage to her would lead to a barony in hand, something Magnus had chased after his whole life. But that being said, he had done his own studying, and the Lord Isidore, while on his sickbed, was yet to succumb to his death. And with the matter kept close behind wraps, he wasn't entirely sure what would be the procedure even if he did offer Iolanthe marriage at this point.
While further planning was required, that did not mean he wanted to just let his plan go to waste. As such, his eyes flicked to Iolanthe next, the dark irises almost honeyed, melting with warmth when they gazed on her. Surely she has not forgotten the warmth they shared? It had been but a few days. Dipping into a bow deeper then the one he had given Philippos, the spymaster picked up Iolanthe's wrist, and placed a chaste but warm kiss on the back of her hand, as he had done the first time they had met again in the harbor's reopening.
As he straightened, his eyes held a wealth of meaning, yet he turned his attention to his sister, and directed his next query at both ladies, offering an arm to each. "We'll have to greet the Queen first. And then perhaps, some refreshments?" he murmured. "Leto, you surely remember Lady Iolanthe? I had her esteemed company on my trip to Taengea. Are you not curious to hear of the neighboring kingdom from ladies' viewpoint?"
The spymaster had moved to greet the Queen and Prince Zanon with his wife when they had entered, making a mental note to inform the prince on what his travels to Taengea had provided him with upon witnessing the coronation of the new King and Queen. Granted, it was no big information, but he had missed Vangelis's departure, and his thoughts as well as further information he had gained from his followers on the ground meant such sensitive information could be on written paper, and as such he would first have to update Zanon, before Vangelis's return. That the King was coronated was common knowledge. But what Magnus wished to inform was the wary way in which he saw Stephanos move, the subtle body language, everything he had picked up from witnessing the ceremony and subsequent court session and gossip from there.
With the faint memory of the King dealing with the loud-mouthed royal lord back in Vasiliadon a week and a half ago, Magnus faintly notice the entrance of a lady whose dark hair was not unsimilar to his own, with a chiton in the shade of blue-grey he was entirely too familiar with.
Despite conversing with a lord from Chaossis who had travelled to Midas for this court session, Magnus found his eyes zeroing in on his sister as he was wont to do. He was raised as Leto's protector - it was a role Magnus stepped into most comfortably.
Making his excuses to extricate himself out of the conversation, the spymaster immediately frowned when, upon turning to head to his sister's side so he could bring her to greet the Queen, the male saw a man by his side. If his memory served him correctly, the man was a Commander with the crown prince's regiment. The name slipped his mind, yet as the brother he was, Magnus was unlikely to allow just anyone to speak to his sister on such friendly terms. And the way in which the Commanders eyes lingered on his sister's frame made the dark-haired male narrow his eyes.
Quickening his step, he managed to get to their side - just as a very familiar lady appeared to speak. So focused was Magnus on Leto's interactions with the Commander, that he had not even noticed Iolanthe's arrival. A rare occurence for sure, but as his eyes finally fell on the familiar- too familiar - form of Lady Iolanthe, he felt a warmth stir in his gut, the kind she has managed to stir one too many times on their ride back.
It was to his disadvantage that things in Midas had been busy the moment he had returned. With the crown prince and the King both gone, Magnus had spend much time within the Dikasitrio to converse with colleagues and royal advisors alike in lieu of the situation in Taengea. While they were but different kingdoms, the friendly status of Colchis and Taengea meant they had to be prepared for any eventuality with the Creed happening in Taengea. As such, he had only managed to send a missive to Iolanthe in the past few days they had been back, despite sharing much closer connections on the ship. He was eager to continue such, yet as a man of responsibilities, his work held him back.
"Commander Philippos, this is my sister, Leto of Chaossis. I thank you for watching over my sister," he murmured, a friendly smile in place as he placed a hand on the small of her back and gestured at Leto to give a small curtsy. Yet his dark eyes glinted whilst he gave a shallow bow to the Commander, his tall frame towering over Philippos. It was a dangerous glint. he had seen the coy smile Iolanthe had flashed Philippos, and Magnus had not liked it one bit. He had shared an intimacy with the lady whilst they had been aboard ship, and Magnus had been eager to pursue more. Of course, he had also considered the fact that marriage to her would lead to a barony in hand, something Magnus had chased after his whole life. But that being said, he had done his own studying, and the Lord Isidore, while on his sickbed, was yet to succumb to his death. And with the matter kept close behind wraps, he wasn't entirely sure what would be the procedure even if he did offer Iolanthe marriage at this point.
While further planning was required, that did not mean he wanted to just let his plan go to waste. As such, his eyes flicked to Iolanthe next, the dark irises almost honeyed, melting with warmth when they gazed on her. Surely she has not forgotten the warmth they shared? It had been but a few days. Dipping into a bow deeper then the one he had given Philippos, the spymaster picked up Iolanthe's wrist, and placed a chaste but warm kiss on the back of her hand, as he had done the first time they had met again in the harbor's reopening.
As he straightened, his eyes held a wealth of meaning, yet he turned his attention to his sister, and directed his next query at both ladies, offering an arm to each. "We'll have to greet the Queen first. And then perhaps, some refreshments?" he murmured. "Leto, you surely remember Lady Iolanthe? I had her esteemed company on my trip to Taengea. Are you not curious to hear of the neighboring kingdom from ladies' viewpoint?"
Not always the first one to events such as these, Silas arrived a little later than his Zanon and Evras. He had ridden his own horse over, not wanting to make them wait for him while he finished getting ready. He was dressed well, wearing some of the finest clothes that he owned as expected by him. He had straightened out any folds that he may have made while riding over. His hair was still damp at the end, however, there was no other indication that he had spent a considerable time in the baths before getting ready to attend tonight's events. He had taken his time, no haste to get there. He planned to spend his night with a single wine goblet in his hand and a friend. He knew almost everyone who would be attending tonight, names and houses being a common language that was drilled into him from birth. His walk was languid as he entered the court, a soft smile fixed into place. His eyes briefly crossed the room, noticing the presence of his siblings and some other notable noblemen.
His bright green eyes then turned towards his mother, who was elegant as ever. She was such a strong, unwavering figure in his life. His smile became a little more genuine as he stepped towards her. Much like the others, he bent forward into a bow and placed a kiss on his mother's hand. "Good evening your majesty." His eyes danced with amusement as she gave him an unimpressed look. It could have been his words or his tardy arrival. In any case, he exchanged a few pleasantries with her, trying to gauge her mood before he stepped away. His intent was for a goblet of wine and it seemed like he was in luck. A maid passed by, with a few goblets in her hands. He took one off her and held the wine to his chest as he relocated Zanon and then Evras. She seemed to be socialising with her brother, and Zanon was sure to attract all the conversation. Truly familiar faces were few and far between so he resigned himself to standing beside the food table. He'd wait until someone approached him since he seemed so bereft of topics to speak of. He eyed the food but decided that he was not hungry yet, so he sipped on the wine.
It was so odd, his oldest brother and youngest sister being gone. Silas would have to leave the city soon enough, leaving Zanon and his mother to lead. It was odd to the prince, to think that Vangelis would be gone once again. He had no Asia to distract him too so it would be all work and no play once he got back to Chaossis. His lieutenants were sure to have a ton of paperwork for him sort through, on top of what he already had. Silas was looking forward to seeing his men again, that was for sure. It was good to know that this event was going to be one of the last for at least a few weeks. Forced socialisation had never been Silas' forte, as friendly as he was. He preferred natural occurrences of friendship and not having to watch his every word in front of other people. It was what it was though, there was no changing court.
JD
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JD
Staff Team
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Not always the first one to events such as these, Silas arrived a little later than his Zanon and Evras. He had ridden his own horse over, not wanting to make them wait for him while he finished getting ready. He was dressed well, wearing some of the finest clothes that he owned as expected by him. He had straightened out any folds that he may have made while riding over. His hair was still damp at the end, however, there was no other indication that he had spent a considerable time in the baths before getting ready to attend tonight's events. He had taken his time, no haste to get there. He planned to spend his night with a single wine goblet in his hand and a friend. He knew almost everyone who would be attending tonight, names and houses being a common language that was drilled into him from birth. His walk was languid as he entered the court, a soft smile fixed into place. His eyes briefly crossed the room, noticing the presence of his siblings and some other notable noblemen.
His bright green eyes then turned towards his mother, who was elegant as ever. She was such a strong, unwavering figure in his life. His smile became a little more genuine as he stepped towards her. Much like the others, he bent forward into a bow and placed a kiss on his mother's hand. "Good evening your majesty." His eyes danced with amusement as she gave him an unimpressed look. It could have been his words or his tardy arrival. In any case, he exchanged a few pleasantries with her, trying to gauge her mood before he stepped away. His intent was for a goblet of wine and it seemed like he was in luck. A maid passed by, with a few goblets in her hands. He took one off her and held the wine to his chest as he relocated Zanon and then Evras. She seemed to be socialising with her brother, and Zanon was sure to attract all the conversation. Truly familiar faces were few and far between so he resigned himself to standing beside the food table. He'd wait until someone approached him since he seemed so bereft of topics to speak of. He eyed the food but decided that he was not hungry yet, so he sipped on the wine.
It was so odd, his oldest brother and youngest sister being gone. Silas would have to leave the city soon enough, leaving Zanon and his mother to lead. It was odd to the prince, to think that Vangelis would be gone once again. He had no Asia to distract him too so it would be all work and no play once he got back to Chaossis. His lieutenants were sure to have a ton of paperwork for him sort through, on top of what he already had. Silas was looking forward to seeing his men again, that was for sure. It was good to know that this event was going to be one of the last for at least a few weeks. Forced socialisation had never been Silas' forte, as friendly as he was. He preferred natural occurrences of friendship and not having to watch his every word in front of other people. It was what it was though, there was no changing court.
Not always the first one to events such as these, Silas arrived a little later than his Zanon and Evras. He had ridden his own horse over, not wanting to make them wait for him while he finished getting ready. He was dressed well, wearing some of the finest clothes that he owned as expected by him. He had straightened out any folds that he may have made while riding over. His hair was still damp at the end, however, there was no other indication that he had spent a considerable time in the baths before getting ready to attend tonight's events. He had taken his time, no haste to get there. He planned to spend his night with a single wine goblet in his hand and a friend. He knew almost everyone who would be attending tonight, names and houses being a common language that was drilled into him from birth. His walk was languid as he entered the court, a soft smile fixed into place. His eyes briefly crossed the room, noticing the presence of his siblings and some other notable noblemen.
His bright green eyes then turned towards his mother, who was elegant as ever. She was such a strong, unwavering figure in his life. His smile became a little more genuine as he stepped towards her. Much like the others, he bent forward into a bow and placed a kiss on his mother's hand. "Good evening your majesty." His eyes danced with amusement as she gave him an unimpressed look. It could have been his words or his tardy arrival. In any case, he exchanged a few pleasantries with her, trying to gauge her mood before he stepped away. His intent was for a goblet of wine and it seemed like he was in luck. A maid passed by, with a few goblets in her hands. He took one off her and held the wine to his chest as he relocated Zanon and then Evras. She seemed to be socialising with her brother, and Zanon was sure to attract all the conversation. Truly familiar faces were few and far between so he resigned himself to standing beside the food table. He'd wait until someone approached him since he seemed so bereft of topics to speak of. He eyed the food but decided that he was not hungry yet, so he sipped on the wine.
It was so odd, his oldest brother and youngest sister being gone. Silas would have to leave the city soon enough, leaving Zanon and his mother to lead. It was odd to the prince, to think that Vangelis would be gone once again. He had no Asia to distract him too so it would be all work and no play once he got back to Chaossis. His lieutenants were sure to have a ton of paperwork for him sort through, on top of what he already had. Silas was looking forward to seeing his men again, that was for sure. It was good to know that this event was going to be one of the last for at least a few weeks. Forced socialisation had never been Silas' forte, as friendly as he was. He preferred natural occurrences of friendship and not having to watch his every word in front of other people. It was what it was though, there was no changing court.
