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Leto's eyes followed the man's hand as it reached out to a passing tray, her eyes trained on each little movement of his face as he indulged in the treat. Though her temperament was completely different from her brother's, likely due to the years he spent cultivating a refined air, they both possessed a keen sense of observation and a rather strong intuition. The Commander was quite friendly and did not seem terribly threatening at the moment, socially or otherwise.
His compliments to both her appearance and her attire should have resulted in a demure blush and a coy smile, finely crafted after years of practice. Leto, however, initially made a silent 'ah', recognizing this sort of approach. It proved to her, once and for all, that all men - no matter their station - had one thing in mind. Perhaps, she should have just thanked him for the compliment and then offered one of her own, maybe toward his attire as well? Instead, she glanced down at her dress, one hand delicately pinching the fabric between two fingers and dropping it, so it could flutter back into place.
"True, it is a rather unique color, though I had no choice in it. It is a gift from my brother," she replied, her voice practiced and light over the rather unsteady comment. For half a moment, she wondered why she even bothered saying it. Too late now. Perhaps, returning a compliment would help? "I like your.....armor?"
Nope. That wasn't it.
Her face nearly winced at her own words, but she lifted the glass to her lips to try to hide it. Just at that moment, he asked if she were alone tonight. With the tartness of the wine on her tongue causing her lips to purse, she swallowed perhaps a touch harder than was ladylike, but shook her head. "No. I am here at my brother's invitation."
Before she could turn to see if her brother was in fact still there, the Commander introduced himself as Philippos of Elimea. For the briefest of moments, her mind scanned through the names of noble and royal houses and after a moment, her face softened a touch, and she started another curtsy, just about to give her own introduction, when another voice spoke her name first.
Blinking as she came to stand again, her eyes widened a touch in recognition of Magnus' friend, followed by a smile and a much deeper curtsy than she had offered to Philippos. At least she knew the noblewoman's titles for certain.
"Lady Iolanthe, how lovely to see you again," she replied as she stood. At first, she admired Iolanthe's stunning appearance and graceful air, only to further admire her navigation of introductions. Leto wished for the briefest of moments she could ask the lady to repeat what she had just said word for word, then perhaps again so she could write it down so as not to embarrass herself again. "This is Commander Philippos of the Red Knights. We just met."
Before the introductions could be completed, Leto felt rather than saw the familiar form of her brother approach her side. Once again, introductions were exchanged; this time, Leto was familiar with the subtle underlying inflection in her brother's voice. While he had always been protective of her, it held a different sort of weight within the polished stone walls. Feeling both meeker and more confident with her brother at her side, she marked his silent gesture and dipped into another curtsy.
Her eyes grew ever watchful as her brother bowed deeply and seemed to lock gazes with Lady Iolanthe, taking his time to kiss the back of her hand. They all seemed to be locked in a moment that held a silent conversation, almost as if listening to a song in a different language. It was clear there was something between them, different from the brief meeting during the celebrations following the harbor's recovery.
Magnus had always been one to speak truth but to keep certain details secret. Leto wished she had been bold enough to press him further after the celebrations and even more so after his return from Taengea, but he had been endlessly preoccupied with the aftermath of the fires. In truth, before this sudden invitation to court, they had not had nearly as many evenings talking together as usual. That would change after tonight, even if she had to force the matter.
Leto's eyes were full of a silent barrage of questions aimed at her brother, none of which could be answered now. At her brother's reminder that they were to greet the queen, Leto felt the familiar flutter of nerves beneath her ribcage and her shoulders straightened, more tension than anything. Silently, she nodded in response, trying not to let her nerves show.
Turning to Philippos again, she masked her nerves with a smile and said, "Yes, thank you, Commander, for your company. I hope I haven't been a bother." As her brother spoke, she nodded.
"Yes, we were just being reacquainted," she said honestly, her brows raising in interest as her brother mentioned she had joined him on the trip to Taengea. Now, THAT was an interesting bit of information! Her wide eyes sparked with interest and began to bounce between her brother and the diminutive woman at his other side before they crinkled with curiosity, making a mental note to add several other questions to her brother's future interrogation.
"Oh, yes! I would like to hear about your trip. I have never been to Taengea, but on one of Magnus' prior visits, he brought back Eteon, my beloved horse. I hear it is quite an exciting place, what with the murders of the king and crown prince...." she started, the words spilling out of her quickly before she caught herself, glancing up at Magnus in a quick, silent apology. Taming her bad habits and loose tongue had been quite a task over the years. Quickly thinking through appropriate conversation, she started a bit slower and asked, "Is....there anything I should know before meeting the Queen?"
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Leto's eyes followed the man's hand as it reached out to a passing tray, her eyes trained on each little movement of his face as he indulged in the treat. Though her temperament was completely different from her brother's, likely due to the years he spent cultivating a refined air, they both possessed a keen sense of observation and a rather strong intuition. The Commander was quite friendly and did not seem terribly threatening at the moment, socially or otherwise.
His compliments to both her appearance and her attire should have resulted in a demure blush and a coy smile, finely crafted after years of practice. Leto, however, initially made a silent 'ah', recognizing this sort of approach. It proved to her, once and for all, that all men - no matter their station - had one thing in mind. Perhaps, she should have just thanked him for the compliment and then offered one of her own, maybe toward his attire as well? Instead, she glanced down at her dress, one hand delicately pinching the fabric between two fingers and dropping it, so it could flutter back into place.
"True, it is a rather unique color, though I had no choice in it. It is a gift from my brother," she replied, her voice practiced and light over the rather unsteady comment. For half a moment, she wondered why she even bothered saying it. Too late now. Perhaps, returning a compliment would help? "I like your.....armor?"
Nope. That wasn't it.
Her face nearly winced at her own words, but she lifted the glass to her lips to try to hide it. Just at that moment, he asked if she were alone tonight. With the tartness of the wine on her tongue causing her lips to purse, she swallowed perhaps a touch harder than was ladylike, but shook her head. "No. I am here at my brother's invitation."
Before she could turn to see if her brother was in fact still there, the Commander introduced himself as Philippos of Elimea. For the briefest of moments, her mind scanned through the names of noble and royal houses and after a moment, her face softened a touch, and she started another curtsy, just about to give her own introduction, when another voice spoke her name first.
Blinking as she came to stand again, her eyes widened a touch in recognition of Magnus' friend, followed by a smile and a much deeper curtsy than she had offered to Philippos. At least she knew the noblewoman's titles for certain.
"Lady Iolanthe, how lovely to see you again," she replied as she stood. At first, she admired Iolanthe's stunning appearance and graceful air, only to further admire her navigation of introductions. Leto wished for the briefest of moments she could ask the lady to repeat what she had just said word for word, then perhaps again so she could write it down so as not to embarrass herself again. "This is Commander Philippos of the Red Knights. We just met."
Before the introductions could be completed, Leto felt rather than saw the familiar form of her brother approach her side. Once again, introductions were exchanged; this time, Leto was familiar with the subtle underlying inflection in her brother's voice. While he had always been protective of her, it held a different sort of weight within the polished stone walls. Feeling both meeker and more confident with her brother at her side, she marked his silent gesture and dipped into another curtsy.
Her eyes grew ever watchful as her brother bowed deeply and seemed to lock gazes with Lady Iolanthe, taking his time to kiss the back of her hand. They all seemed to be locked in a moment that held a silent conversation, almost as if listening to a song in a different language. It was clear there was something between them, different from the brief meeting during the celebrations following the harbor's recovery.
Magnus had always been one to speak truth but to keep certain details secret. Leto wished she had been bold enough to press him further after the celebrations and even more so after his return from Taengea, but he had been endlessly preoccupied with the aftermath of the fires. In truth, before this sudden invitation to court, they had not had nearly as many evenings talking together as usual. That would change after tonight, even if she had to force the matter.
Leto's eyes were full of a silent barrage of questions aimed at her brother, none of which could be answered now. At her brother's reminder that they were to greet the queen, Leto felt the familiar flutter of nerves beneath her ribcage and her shoulders straightened, more tension than anything. Silently, she nodded in response, trying not to let her nerves show.
Turning to Philippos again, she masked her nerves with a smile and said, "Yes, thank you, Commander, for your company. I hope I haven't been a bother." As her brother spoke, she nodded.
"Yes, we were just being reacquainted," she said honestly, her brows raising in interest as her brother mentioned she had joined him on the trip to Taengea. Now, THAT was an interesting bit of information! Her wide eyes sparked with interest and began to bounce between her brother and the diminutive woman at his other side before they crinkled with curiosity, making a mental note to add several other questions to her brother's future interrogation.
"Oh, yes! I would like to hear about your trip. I have never been to Taengea, but on one of Magnus' prior visits, he brought back Eteon, my beloved horse. I hear it is quite an exciting place, what with the murders of the king and crown prince...." she started, the words spilling out of her quickly before she caught herself, glancing up at Magnus in a quick, silent apology. Taming her bad habits and loose tongue had been quite a task over the years. Quickly thinking through appropriate conversation, she started a bit slower and asked, "Is....there anything I should know before meeting the Queen?"
Leto's eyes followed the man's hand as it reached out to a passing tray, her eyes trained on each little movement of his face as he indulged in the treat. Though her temperament was completely different from her brother's, likely due to the years he spent cultivating a refined air, they both possessed a keen sense of observation and a rather strong intuition. The Commander was quite friendly and did not seem terribly threatening at the moment, socially or otherwise.
His compliments to both her appearance and her attire should have resulted in a demure blush and a coy smile, finely crafted after years of practice. Leto, however, initially made a silent 'ah', recognizing this sort of approach. It proved to her, once and for all, that all men - no matter their station - had one thing in mind. Perhaps, she should have just thanked him for the compliment and then offered one of her own, maybe toward his attire as well? Instead, she glanced down at her dress, one hand delicately pinching the fabric between two fingers and dropping it, so it could flutter back into place.
"True, it is a rather unique color, though I had no choice in it. It is a gift from my brother," she replied, her voice practiced and light over the rather unsteady comment. For half a moment, she wondered why she even bothered saying it. Too late now. Perhaps, returning a compliment would help? "I like your.....armor?"
Nope. That wasn't it.
Her face nearly winced at her own words, but she lifted the glass to her lips to try to hide it. Just at that moment, he asked if she were alone tonight. With the tartness of the wine on her tongue causing her lips to purse, she swallowed perhaps a touch harder than was ladylike, but shook her head. "No. I am here at my brother's invitation."
Before she could turn to see if her brother was in fact still there, the Commander introduced himself as Philippos of Elimea. For the briefest of moments, her mind scanned through the names of noble and royal houses and after a moment, her face softened a touch, and she started another curtsy, just about to give her own introduction, when another voice spoke her name first.
Blinking as she came to stand again, her eyes widened a touch in recognition of Magnus' friend, followed by a smile and a much deeper curtsy than she had offered to Philippos. At least she knew the noblewoman's titles for certain.
"Lady Iolanthe, how lovely to see you again," she replied as she stood. At first, she admired Iolanthe's stunning appearance and graceful air, only to further admire her navigation of introductions. Leto wished for the briefest of moments she could ask the lady to repeat what she had just said word for word, then perhaps again so she could write it down so as not to embarrass herself again. "This is Commander Philippos of the Red Knights. We just met."
Before the introductions could be completed, Leto felt rather than saw the familiar form of her brother approach her side. Once again, introductions were exchanged; this time, Leto was familiar with the subtle underlying inflection in her brother's voice. While he had always been protective of her, it held a different sort of weight within the polished stone walls. Feeling both meeker and more confident with her brother at her side, she marked his silent gesture and dipped into another curtsy.
Her eyes grew ever watchful as her brother bowed deeply and seemed to lock gazes with Lady Iolanthe, taking his time to kiss the back of her hand. They all seemed to be locked in a moment that held a silent conversation, almost as if listening to a song in a different language. It was clear there was something between them, different from the brief meeting during the celebrations following the harbor's recovery.
Magnus had always been one to speak truth but to keep certain details secret. Leto wished she had been bold enough to press him further after the celebrations and even more so after his return from Taengea, but he had been endlessly preoccupied with the aftermath of the fires. In truth, before this sudden invitation to court, they had not had nearly as many evenings talking together as usual. That would change after tonight, even if she had to force the matter.
Leto's eyes were full of a silent barrage of questions aimed at her brother, none of which could be answered now. At her brother's reminder that they were to greet the queen, Leto felt the familiar flutter of nerves beneath her ribcage and her shoulders straightened, more tension than anything. Silently, she nodded in response, trying not to let her nerves show.
Turning to Philippos again, she masked her nerves with a smile and said, "Yes, thank you, Commander, for your company. I hope I haven't been a bother." As her brother spoke, she nodded.
"Yes, we were just being reacquainted," she said honestly, her brows raising in interest as her brother mentioned she had joined him on the trip to Taengea. Now, THAT was an interesting bit of information! Her wide eyes sparked with interest and began to bounce between her brother and the diminutive woman at his other side before they crinkled with curiosity, making a mental note to add several other questions to her brother's future interrogation.
"Oh, yes! I would like to hear about your trip. I have never been to Taengea, but on one of Magnus' prior visits, he brought back Eteon, my beloved horse. I hear it is quite an exciting place, what with the murders of the king and crown prince...." she started, the words spilling out of her quickly before she caught herself, glancing up at Magnus in a quick, silent apology. Taming her bad habits and loose tongue had been quite a task over the years. Quickly thinking through appropriate conversation, she started a bit slower and asked, "Is....there anything I should know before meeting the Queen?"
Iolanthe tried to keep her expression impassive as Magnus bowed to her and placed a kiss on the back of her hand. There was a warmth in his eyes as if a fond memory had crossed his thoughts, and she had to look away to keep her own cheeks from flushing furiously. She was still irritated with him, no contact since they had departed the ship and now here he was yet again, acting as if nothing had happened and he had just stepped away for a moment like he had back in Taengea. His discussion between sister and commander held her attention just enough to keep her in place until he offered her his arm.
”I have already spoken with the queen, one does not want to impose too much upon her grace when such tedious court events are to follow.” Holding out her hand for Philippos to take instead should he choose to, Iolanthe smiled to the blonde man. A soldier who held the prince’s confidence could be a very good choice for future spouse indeed. Speaking with him away from the presence of former lover..no. Not even former lover, former….fling. In any case, getting away from Magnus was rather high on her priorities list.
”Perhaps the commander could accompany me until you have accomplished your greeting. Being presented to the queen for the first time is a very important moment in a young woman’s life after all.”
Her smile for Leto was nothing but genuine, just because she was dealing with a distaste for the brother didn’t mean she had to shun the poor girl. She was brand new to this world, a place it was hard enough to live in when one had been born into it, much less when the advantages of nobility had placed a hold on things. Taking the younger girl’s hand with a squeeze, she kept her gaze firmly away from the older man as she spoke to his sister.
”Leto, you should visit me someday, we could talk all about Taengea and how to fit in at court. I would love to show you the gardens in Arcanes. If your brother could part from you for a few days that is.” Emphasis was laid on the word part. She needed more than a note saying he wouldn’t have time to see her to make up for the indiscretions she’d taken part in. It was utterly scandalous, something she had spent her life striving to avoid, and though thoughts of those nights on the boat made heat rise in her there was no promise with him. She was a conquest to entertain him and nothing more as far as she could tell, and she wouldn’t make the mistake of allowing him to catch her with her guard down again.
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Iolanthe tried to keep her expression impassive as Magnus bowed to her and placed a kiss on the back of her hand. There was a warmth in his eyes as if a fond memory had crossed his thoughts, and she had to look away to keep her own cheeks from flushing furiously. She was still irritated with him, no contact since they had departed the ship and now here he was yet again, acting as if nothing had happened and he had just stepped away for a moment like he had back in Taengea. His discussion between sister and commander held her attention just enough to keep her in place until he offered her his arm.
”I have already spoken with the queen, one does not want to impose too much upon her grace when such tedious court events are to follow.” Holding out her hand for Philippos to take instead should he choose to, Iolanthe smiled to the blonde man. A soldier who held the prince’s confidence could be a very good choice for future spouse indeed. Speaking with him away from the presence of former lover..no. Not even former lover, former….fling. In any case, getting away from Magnus was rather high on her priorities list.
”Perhaps the commander could accompany me until you have accomplished your greeting. Being presented to the queen for the first time is a very important moment in a young woman’s life after all.”
Her smile for Leto was nothing but genuine, just because she was dealing with a distaste for the brother didn’t mean she had to shun the poor girl. She was brand new to this world, a place it was hard enough to live in when one had been born into it, much less when the advantages of nobility had placed a hold on things. Taking the younger girl’s hand with a squeeze, she kept her gaze firmly away from the older man as she spoke to his sister.
”Leto, you should visit me someday, we could talk all about Taengea and how to fit in at court. I would love to show you the gardens in Arcanes. If your brother could part from you for a few days that is.” Emphasis was laid on the word part. She needed more than a note saying he wouldn’t have time to see her to make up for the indiscretions she’d taken part in. It was utterly scandalous, something she had spent her life striving to avoid, and though thoughts of those nights on the boat made heat rise in her there was no promise with him. She was a conquest to entertain him and nothing more as far as she could tell, and she wouldn’t make the mistake of allowing him to catch her with her guard down again.
Iolanthe tried to keep her expression impassive as Magnus bowed to her and placed a kiss on the back of her hand. There was a warmth in his eyes as if a fond memory had crossed his thoughts, and she had to look away to keep her own cheeks from flushing furiously. She was still irritated with him, no contact since they had departed the ship and now here he was yet again, acting as if nothing had happened and he had just stepped away for a moment like he had back in Taengea. His discussion between sister and commander held her attention just enough to keep her in place until he offered her his arm.
”I have already spoken with the queen, one does not want to impose too much upon her grace when such tedious court events are to follow.” Holding out her hand for Philippos to take instead should he choose to, Iolanthe smiled to the blonde man. A soldier who held the prince’s confidence could be a very good choice for future spouse indeed. Speaking with him away from the presence of former lover..no. Not even former lover, former….fling. In any case, getting away from Magnus was rather high on her priorities list.
”Perhaps the commander could accompany me until you have accomplished your greeting. Being presented to the queen for the first time is a very important moment in a young woman’s life after all.”
Her smile for Leto was nothing but genuine, just because she was dealing with a distaste for the brother didn’t mean she had to shun the poor girl. She was brand new to this world, a place it was hard enough to live in when one had been born into it, much less when the advantages of nobility had placed a hold on things. Taking the younger girl’s hand with a squeeze, she kept her gaze firmly away from the older man as she spoke to his sister.
”Leto, you should visit me someday, we could talk all about Taengea and how to fit in at court. I would love to show you the gardens in Arcanes. If your brother could part from you for a few days that is.” Emphasis was laid on the word part. She needed more than a note saying he wouldn’t have time to see her to make up for the indiscretions she’d taken part in. It was utterly scandalous, something she had spent her life striving to avoid, and though thoughts of those nights on the boat made heat rise in her there was no promise with him. She was a conquest to entertain him and nothing more as far as she could tell, and she wouldn’t make the mistake of allowing him to catch her with her guard down again.
He bowed to Iolanthe’s with ease. He was from a low background, but he had been around long enough to learn his manners. That coy smile wasn’t lost on Philippos. In fact, it merely only bolstered his confidence in attempting to impress both ladies at the same time. Pleased with his good fortune, he gave a nod and sloppy grin when Leto had covered introducing him. ”Lady Iolanthe, so plea-” He didn’t even have a chance to finish his greeting to the beautiful blonde lady that had just joined them. Magnus had appeared out of nowhere.
”It is my pleasure, Lord Magnus.” He bent at the hip, only enough to hear the armor clink and clank here and there. Magnus took over the conversation, as though he was something important. Philippos sized him up with a look from head to floor. He could take him. If he was in the business of getting himself in trouble while Vangelis was away. Which, he sometimes could. His hand rested on the hilt of his long sword. Idle hands were dangerous.
His hands went up, moving as he spoke. ”Don’t be worried. I am sure you will impress her Majesty, Lady Leto.” The ever optimist moved to look towards Iolanthe as she extended her hand and offered another plan for the two of them. Philippos was never smart enough to know that he was merely a pawn in a moment, instead, he was happier taking the lady’s hand and tucking it securely in the hook of his elbow. He allowed for that moment to say what she needed to the younger lady, but then he took a step in another direction.
His hand holding out to receive a refill on his cup with only a nod of thanks before promptly pressing it to his lips. Pos was going to indulge in every way necessary, even if it wasn’t very Colchian of him. ”I have heard that Taengea is quite different than here. I’ve never had the luxury either.” He was left behind on the most recent mission there, no matter how much it pained him. Philippos was always teased about how he might fit in with the touchy feelies of the people there. The wine, the beauty, and everything else rumored.
”Lady Iolanthe, how long were you there?” He had heard her first request, the one that asked for help deciphering the changes, but he needed to know how long she was gone to really know what that was. ”I could introduce you to anyone, maybe the Princes?” He gestured to Silas and then Zanon. Silas he knew less than Zanon, but either he would be happy to go have a short conversation with. He was only proving his rank and how close he was, anything to impress the lovely lady.
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He bowed to Iolanthe’s with ease. He was from a low background, but he had been around long enough to learn his manners. That coy smile wasn’t lost on Philippos. In fact, it merely only bolstered his confidence in attempting to impress both ladies at the same time. Pleased with his good fortune, he gave a nod and sloppy grin when Leto had covered introducing him. ”Lady Iolanthe, so plea-” He didn’t even have a chance to finish his greeting to the beautiful blonde lady that had just joined them. Magnus had appeared out of nowhere.
”It is my pleasure, Lord Magnus.” He bent at the hip, only enough to hear the armor clink and clank here and there. Magnus took over the conversation, as though he was something important. Philippos sized him up with a look from head to floor. He could take him. If he was in the business of getting himself in trouble while Vangelis was away. Which, he sometimes could. His hand rested on the hilt of his long sword. Idle hands were dangerous.
His hands went up, moving as he spoke. ”Don’t be worried. I am sure you will impress her Majesty, Lady Leto.” The ever optimist moved to look towards Iolanthe as she extended her hand and offered another plan for the two of them. Philippos was never smart enough to know that he was merely a pawn in a moment, instead, he was happier taking the lady’s hand and tucking it securely in the hook of his elbow. He allowed for that moment to say what she needed to the younger lady, but then he took a step in another direction.
His hand holding out to receive a refill on his cup with only a nod of thanks before promptly pressing it to his lips. Pos was going to indulge in every way necessary, even if it wasn’t very Colchian of him. ”I have heard that Taengea is quite different than here. I’ve never had the luxury either.” He was left behind on the most recent mission there, no matter how much it pained him. Philippos was always teased about how he might fit in with the touchy feelies of the people there. The wine, the beauty, and everything else rumored.
”Lady Iolanthe, how long were you there?” He had heard her first request, the one that asked for help deciphering the changes, but he needed to know how long she was gone to really know what that was. ”I could introduce you to anyone, maybe the Princes?” He gestured to Silas and then Zanon. Silas he knew less than Zanon, but either he would be happy to go have a short conversation with. He was only proving his rank and how close he was, anything to impress the lovely lady.
He bowed to Iolanthe’s with ease. He was from a low background, but he had been around long enough to learn his manners. That coy smile wasn’t lost on Philippos. In fact, it merely only bolstered his confidence in attempting to impress both ladies at the same time. Pleased with his good fortune, he gave a nod and sloppy grin when Leto had covered introducing him. ”Lady Iolanthe, so plea-” He didn’t even have a chance to finish his greeting to the beautiful blonde lady that had just joined them. Magnus had appeared out of nowhere.
”It is my pleasure, Lord Magnus.” He bent at the hip, only enough to hear the armor clink and clank here and there. Magnus took over the conversation, as though he was something important. Philippos sized him up with a look from head to floor. He could take him. If he was in the business of getting himself in trouble while Vangelis was away. Which, he sometimes could. His hand rested on the hilt of his long sword. Idle hands were dangerous.
His hands went up, moving as he spoke. ”Don’t be worried. I am sure you will impress her Majesty, Lady Leto.” The ever optimist moved to look towards Iolanthe as she extended her hand and offered another plan for the two of them. Philippos was never smart enough to know that he was merely a pawn in a moment, instead, he was happier taking the lady’s hand and tucking it securely in the hook of his elbow. He allowed for that moment to say what she needed to the younger lady, but then he took a step in another direction.
His hand holding out to receive a refill on his cup with only a nod of thanks before promptly pressing it to his lips. Pos was going to indulge in every way necessary, even if it wasn’t very Colchian of him. ”I have heard that Taengea is quite different than here. I’ve never had the luxury either.” He was left behind on the most recent mission there, no matter how much it pained him. Philippos was always teased about how he might fit in with the touchy feelies of the people there. The wine, the beauty, and everything else rumored.
”Lady Iolanthe, how long were you there?” He had heard her first request, the one that asked for help deciphering the changes, but he needed to know how long she was gone to really know what that was. ”I could introduce you to anyone, maybe the Princes?” He gestured to Silas and then Zanon. Silas he knew less than Zanon, but either he would be happy to go have a short conversation with. He was only proving his rank and how close he was, anything to impress the lovely lady.
Military men. If Magnus wasn't at court, he may have risked rolling his eyes, irritated as he was at the presence of the male around his sister and Lady Iolanthe, along with the too-smooth way he seemed to want to raise his brows at them. Or maybe it was just a week's worth of work catching up to him and making him feel irritable on top of being weary now. Whichever it was, Magnus's eyes followed the way Philippos took Iolanthe's hand in the crook of his arms, but his features never once betrayed him, trained as he was.
So instead, the Master Informer waited patiently by his sister's side, as Leto chatted with Iolanthe. Catching Leto as she spilled about the murders in Vasiliadon, he quickly squeezed her hand, catching her eye, but merely gave a reassuring smile. He did not expect her to be able to fit in the court session so quickly, but such topics of conversation was dangerous, and a young lady as he should not veer into such waters yet.
Watching the exchange between his sister, a part of him couldn't help but be glad that at the very least, despite the cold shoulder Iolanthe was now clearly giving him, his sister was not caught in the crossfire. Leto was already trying her best to fit in with a crowd she had not grown up being used to, to have a noble lady of the realm shun her would have done a number on her self confidence. So on that, Magnus knew Iolanthe had a kind heart, kinder then most he had seen of her rank.
Yet if so - why the cold shoulder? He had sent her a note a day or two after their return informing her of his busy schedule. Had she taken offense then?
The idea made him frown inwardly. To have a lady he was considering for positions greater then just his lover look upset over him working would not do - but still, Magnus reasoned with himself, this was early days yet. He was yet to be sure if his plans would work. And from the way things looked for now, it did not seem as if Iolanthe would be giving in so easily. A pity, considering the pleasure and delight they had managed to find in each others arms, those many nights they had spent on the ship. She had been as bold as him after that first night. Magnus had been hoping to see more of that boldness once they had arrived in Midas.
No matter. He had plans.
"I have no intention to part from Leto just yet." he responded with an easy, almost teasing smile, directing some of it at his own sister with a grin. "However, I am fairly interested in Arcanes. Lady Iolanthe has told me much of her home, and I find myself interested to see it for myself." Turning to Iolanthe in a smooth manner, Magnus dipped his head at the lady. "I thank you for your invite to us, we shall perhaps see you very soon at your own barony, my lady." Deftly maneuvering is words so he could avoid being personally invited by Iolanthe himself, Magnus was inwardly grinning like a cheshire cat even as he gave a final bow to her and to Philippos, before bringing Leto along with him to the line waiting to see and greet the Queen.
"Death isn't exactly a great topic of conversation, sister." he teased, waiting as a young noble from Chaossis approached the queen. Holding back, he turned to give a proper look at the only sibling he had, her wild, untamed hair only adding on to her outstanding look. So be it if others whispered about her looks or even her behavior - Magnus thought his sister was fine in every way. They navigated odd waters, after all. Not really nobles, yet allowed to participate in all events as nobles could, they both stood in grey areas. "Do not be worried, Leto. The queen is fair and just, kind if not noticeably so. Just greet her as you would a regular noble lady. 'Your Highness' should be the only change you make."
With that final murmur, Magnus stepped up, his formal smile in place as he greeted first the queen, and then the prince next to him with a bow, and then flourished his hand at his sister. "May I present my sister, Your Highnesses. Leto of Chaossis. It is her first court session, and I hope she will attend many yet to come." His smile was proud as he nudged Leto forward, waiting to watch her introduction.
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Military men. If Magnus wasn't at court, he may have risked rolling his eyes, irritated as he was at the presence of the male around his sister and Lady Iolanthe, along with the too-smooth way he seemed to want to raise his brows at them. Or maybe it was just a week's worth of work catching up to him and making him feel irritable on top of being weary now. Whichever it was, Magnus's eyes followed the way Philippos took Iolanthe's hand in the crook of his arms, but his features never once betrayed him, trained as he was.
So instead, the Master Informer waited patiently by his sister's side, as Leto chatted with Iolanthe. Catching Leto as she spilled about the murders in Vasiliadon, he quickly squeezed her hand, catching her eye, but merely gave a reassuring smile. He did not expect her to be able to fit in the court session so quickly, but such topics of conversation was dangerous, and a young lady as he should not veer into such waters yet.
Watching the exchange between his sister, a part of him couldn't help but be glad that at the very least, despite the cold shoulder Iolanthe was now clearly giving him, his sister was not caught in the crossfire. Leto was already trying her best to fit in with a crowd she had not grown up being used to, to have a noble lady of the realm shun her would have done a number on her self confidence. So on that, Magnus knew Iolanthe had a kind heart, kinder then most he had seen of her rank.
Yet if so - why the cold shoulder? He had sent her a note a day or two after their return informing her of his busy schedule. Had she taken offense then?
The idea made him frown inwardly. To have a lady he was considering for positions greater then just his lover look upset over him working would not do - but still, Magnus reasoned with himself, this was early days yet. He was yet to be sure if his plans would work. And from the way things looked for now, it did not seem as if Iolanthe would be giving in so easily. A pity, considering the pleasure and delight they had managed to find in each others arms, those many nights they had spent on the ship. She had been as bold as him after that first night. Magnus had been hoping to see more of that boldness once they had arrived in Midas.
No matter. He had plans.
"I have no intention to part from Leto just yet." he responded with an easy, almost teasing smile, directing some of it at his own sister with a grin. "However, I am fairly interested in Arcanes. Lady Iolanthe has told me much of her home, and I find myself interested to see it for myself." Turning to Iolanthe in a smooth manner, Magnus dipped his head at the lady. "I thank you for your invite to us, we shall perhaps see you very soon at your own barony, my lady." Deftly maneuvering is words so he could avoid being personally invited by Iolanthe himself, Magnus was inwardly grinning like a cheshire cat even as he gave a final bow to her and to Philippos, before bringing Leto along with him to the line waiting to see and greet the Queen.
"Death isn't exactly a great topic of conversation, sister." he teased, waiting as a young noble from Chaossis approached the queen. Holding back, he turned to give a proper look at the only sibling he had, her wild, untamed hair only adding on to her outstanding look. So be it if others whispered about her looks or even her behavior - Magnus thought his sister was fine in every way. They navigated odd waters, after all. Not really nobles, yet allowed to participate in all events as nobles could, they both stood in grey areas. "Do not be worried, Leto. The queen is fair and just, kind if not noticeably so. Just greet her as you would a regular noble lady. 'Your Highness' should be the only change you make."
With that final murmur, Magnus stepped up, his formal smile in place as he greeted first the queen, and then the prince next to him with a bow, and then flourished his hand at his sister. "May I present my sister, Your Highnesses. Leto of Chaossis. It is her first court session, and I hope she will attend many yet to come." His smile was proud as he nudged Leto forward, waiting to watch her introduction.
Military men. If Magnus wasn't at court, he may have risked rolling his eyes, irritated as he was at the presence of the male around his sister and Lady Iolanthe, along with the too-smooth way he seemed to want to raise his brows at them. Or maybe it was just a week's worth of work catching up to him and making him feel irritable on top of being weary now. Whichever it was, Magnus's eyes followed the way Philippos took Iolanthe's hand in the crook of his arms, but his features never once betrayed him, trained as he was.
So instead, the Master Informer waited patiently by his sister's side, as Leto chatted with Iolanthe. Catching Leto as she spilled about the murders in Vasiliadon, he quickly squeezed her hand, catching her eye, but merely gave a reassuring smile. He did not expect her to be able to fit in the court session so quickly, but such topics of conversation was dangerous, and a young lady as he should not veer into such waters yet.
Watching the exchange between his sister, a part of him couldn't help but be glad that at the very least, despite the cold shoulder Iolanthe was now clearly giving him, his sister was not caught in the crossfire. Leto was already trying her best to fit in with a crowd she had not grown up being used to, to have a noble lady of the realm shun her would have done a number on her self confidence. So on that, Magnus knew Iolanthe had a kind heart, kinder then most he had seen of her rank.
Yet if so - why the cold shoulder? He had sent her a note a day or two after their return informing her of his busy schedule. Had she taken offense then?
The idea made him frown inwardly. To have a lady he was considering for positions greater then just his lover look upset over him working would not do - but still, Magnus reasoned with himself, this was early days yet. He was yet to be sure if his plans would work. And from the way things looked for now, it did not seem as if Iolanthe would be giving in so easily. A pity, considering the pleasure and delight they had managed to find in each others arms, those many nights they had spent on the ship. She had been as bold as him after that first night. Magnus had been hoping to see more of that boldness once they had arrived in Midas.
No matter. He had plans.
"I have no intention to part from Leto just yet." he responded with an easy, almost teasing smile, directing some of it at his own sister with a grin. "However, I am fairly interested in Arcanes. Lady Iolanthe has told me much of her home, and I find myself interested to see it for myself." Turning to Iolanthe in a smooth manner, Magnus dipped his head at the lady. "I thank you for your invite to us, we shall perhaps see you very soon at your own barony, my lady." Deftly maneuvering is words so he could avoid being personally invited by Iolanthe himself, Magnus was inwardly grinning like a cheshire cat even as he gave a final bow to her and to Philippos, before bringing Leto along with him to the line waiting to see and greet the Queen.
"Death isn't exactly a great topic of conversation, sister." he teased, waiting as a young noble from Chaossis approached the queen. Holding back, he turned to give a proper look at the only sibling he had, her wild, untamed hair only adding on to her outstanding look. So be it if others whispered about her looks or even her behavior - Magnus thought his sister was fine in every way. They navigated odd waters, after all. Not really nobles, yet allowed to participate in all events as nobles could, they both stood in grey areas. "Do not be worried, Leto. The queen is fair and just, kind if not noticeably so. Just greet her as you would a regular noble lady. 'Your Highness' should be the only change you make."
With that final murmur, Magnus stepped up, his formal smile in place as he greeted first the queen, and then the prince next to him with a bow, and then flourished his hand at his sister. "May I present my sister, Your Highnesses. Leto of Chaossis. It is her first court session, and I hope she will attend many yet to come." His smile was proud as he nudged Leto forward, waiting to watch her introduction.
Gossip The Serpent's Tongue
"Psst! Did you hear? The second prince was running around the streets naked during the fire!"
"He was not! I heard he just wasn't wearing a shirt."
"Either way, what was his royal highness doing half dressed in the middle of the day? Maybe those rumours of him still taking lovers are true... His wife was in the temple. Maybe he was... entertaining... when the fire started?"
JD
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"Psst! Did you hear? The second prince was running around the streets naked during the fire!"
"He was not! I heard he just wasn't wearing a shirt."
"Either way, what was his royal highness doing half dressed in the middle of the day? Maybe those rumours of him still taking lovers are true... His wife was in the temple. Maybe he was... entertaining... when the fire started?"
Gossip The Serpent's Tongue
"Psst! Did you hear? The second prince was running around the streets naked during the fire!"
"He was not! I heard he just wasn't wearing a shirt."
"Either way, what was his royal highness doing half dressed in the middle of the day? Maybe those rumours of him still taking lovers are true... His wife was in the temple. Maybe he was... entertaining... when the fire started?"
Zanon did his best to keep a pleasant look on his face as he stood by his mother’s side, greeting those who came through the reception line with a few words of his own and unable to hide his grin as Silas slipped through in a tardy manner with a twinkle in his eye. Winking at his youngest brother, the second prince fought to hide his amusement when their mother turned to give him a glare. No doubt she expected him to be stone faced as Vangelis would be in this moment. Ever a slight disappointment in comparison.
He was envious as Silas slipped away into the crowds, watching the others mill about and discuss before the next person stepped up in line to greet them. The spymaster, the lady Iolanthe. Philippos received a grin and a nod as he once again pulled the formality of prince instead of friend into place. ”Indeed Commander we will. Enjoy the evening.” After that it was an endless row of greeting, though it did not escape his notice that Thea of Thanasi entered and began mingling before paying her respects to the queen and he had to hide his scowl. The arrogance of the Thanasi grew by the day.
Whispers surrounded him and he couldn’t help but chuckle as he picked up on a few maids gossiping in the corner off to the side about the state of dress he had been in during the fire. Yes, it had been a tragedy, but at least some humor could be found in the fact that he had ridden into it wearing little more than a loincloth. Blocking out the idle chatter, Zanon finally felt as if the curse of being his brother’s stand in might have lifted as Magnus of Chaoissis stepped up for a second time, this round bringing a beautiful young woman with him. The resemblance was obvious, and he silently applauded the man for using his position to raise his family along with him. He had always respected the master informer, liked him well enough on the occasions they spoke, and knowing now that he had a beautiful sister certainly didn’t hurt.
”Welcome to court, mistress Leto. I am glad to see your brother has brought you out of hiding, such a pretty face would be wasted outside of these walls. What do you think of our court so far?”
He could almost feel his mother’s eyes boring into him as she gave her own kind greeting to the young woman, a veiled threat that if he were to overtly stray again Yanni of Kotas would drive a sword through her second son’s heart herself. Not that he could blame her after the spectacle they had made on the night when he and Evras had fought, then reconciled. It had left a man dead and a good deal of blood and agony on her flooring and even the gracious queen didn’t have patience for stained marble.
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Zanon did his best to keep a pleasant look on his face as he stood by his mother’s side, greeting those who came through the reception line with a few words of his own and unable to hide his grin as Silas slipped through in a tardy manner with a twinkle in his eye. Winking at his youngest brother, the second prince fought to hide his amusement when their mother turned to give him a glare. No doubt she expected him to be stone faced as Vangelis would be in this moment. Ever a slight disappointment in comparison.
He was envious as Silas slipped away into the crowds, watching the others mill about and discuss before the next person stepped up in line to greet them. The spymaster, the lady Iolanthe. Philippos received a grin and a nod as he once again pulled the formality of prince instead of friend into place. ”Indeed Commander we will. Enjoy the evening.” After that it was an endless row of greeting, though it did not escape his notice that Thea of Thanasi entered and began mingling before paying her respects to the queen and he had to hide his scowl. The arrogance of the Thanasi grew by the day.
Whispers surrounded him and he couldn’t help but chuckle as he picked up on a few maids gossiping in the corner off to the side about the state of dress he had been in during the fire. Yes, it had been a tragedy, but at least some humor could be found in the fact that he had ridden into it wearing little more than a loincloth. Blocking out the idle chatter, Zanon finally felt as if the curse of being his brother’s stand in might have lifted as Magnus of Chaoissis stepped up for a second time, this round bringing a beautiful young woman with him. The resemblance was obvious, and he silently applauded the man for using his position to raise his family along with him. He had always respected the master informer, liked him well enough on the occasions they spoke, and knowing now that he had a beautiful sister certainly didn’t hurt.
”Welcome to court, mistress Leto. I am glad to see your brother has brought you out of hiding, such a pretty face would be wasted outside of these walls. What do you think of our court so far?”
He could almost feel his mother’s eyes boring into him as she gave her own kind greeting to the young woman, a veiled threat that if he were to overtly stray again Yanni of Kotas would drive a sword through her second son’s heart herself. Not that he could blame her after the spectacle they had made on the night when he and Evras had fought, then reconciled. It had left a man dead and a good deal of blood and agony on her flooring and even the gracious queen didn’t have patience for stained marble.
Zanon did his best to keep a pleasant look on his face as he stood by his mother’s side, greeting those who came through the reception line with a few words of his own and unable to hide his grin as Silas slipped through in a tardy manner with a twinkle in his eye. Winking at his youngest brother, the second prince fought to hide his amusement when their mother turned to give him a glare. No doubt she expected him to be stone faced as Vangelis would be in this moment. Ever a slight disappointment in comparison.
He was envious as Silas slipped away into the crowds, watching the others mill about and discuss before the next person stepped up in line to greet them. The spymaster, the lady Iolanthe. Philippos received a grin and a nod as he once again pulled the formality of prince instead of friend into place. ”Indeed Commander we will. Enjoy the evening.” After that it was an endless row of greeting, though it did not escape his notice that Thea of Thanasi entered and began mingling before paying her respects to the queen and he had to hide his scowl. The arrogance of the Thanasi grew by the day.
Whispers surrounded him and he couldn’t help but chuckle as he picked up on a few maids gossiping in the corner off to the side about the state of dress he had been in during the fire. Yes, it had been a tragedy, but at least some humor could be found in the fact that he had ridden into it wearing little more than a loincloth. Blocking out the idle chatter, Zanon finally felt as if the curse of being his brother’s stand in might have lifted as Magnus of Chaoissis stepped up for a second time, this round bringing a beautiful young woman with him. The resemblance was obvious, and he silently applauded the man for using his position to raise his family along with him. He had always respected the master informer, liked him well enough on the occasions they spoke, and knowing now that he had a beautiful sister certainly didn’t hurt.
”Welcome to court, mistress Leto. I am glad to see your brother has brought you out of hiding, such a pretty face would be wasted outside of these walls. What do you think of our court so far?”
He could almost feel his mother’s eyes boring into him as she gave her own kind greeting to the young woman, a veiled threat that if he were to overtly stray again Yanni of Kotas would drive a sword through her second son’s heart herself. Not that he could blame her after the spectacle they had made on the night when he and Evras had fought, then reconciled. It had left a man dead and a good deal of blood and agony on her flooring and even the gracious queen didn’t have patience for stained marble.
It did not take much for Leto to decide that she liked Iolanthe, whether in admiration for her deft, natural presence in social situations or simply for the kindness she had shown in the few moments they had known each other, she was not sure. Despite whatever situation existed between her and Magnus - something she was dreadfully curious about but knew better than to ask in that moment - she could not help but admire how the lady navigated it all so delicately. It did not seem the sort of thing someone could learn strictly from a book, as Leto had attempted, but through living it.
"Then, we will join you afterward," Leto stated, very excited to now have two acquaintances at court, a Commander and a Lady. Then, as the noblewoman took her hand and squeezed it to offer the invitation, the young woman's blue eyes doubled in size as a broad smile spread across her face. The fluttering within her ribcage shifted from nerves to excitement at the noblewoman's words.
"I would love to!" Leto beamed, her excitement present as she did her best to keep her voice at an appropriate volume. Immediately, her round, dish-like eyes flashed up to Magnus like that of a child who saw a tray of sweets pass by, silently begging. It would be so lovely to have someone kind enough to teach her first-hand about navigating court, and simply to have another woman to be around.
In the several years since she had moved to Midas, she had few female friends near her age, often considering the lead servant within the household to be as close to a friend as she could manage. Her parents were lovely, of course, and Magnus was fine company as well when he was not busy, but to have someone like Iolanthe to help her through this season in her life - it was like a gift. On top of that, it would give her the opportunity to travel, a distinct jealousy that she silently held against her brother from time to time.
As Magnus and Leto shared their parting bows with Philippos and Iolanthe, she could not help but add, "We should plan it soon." The grin had not fully melted from her face as they started to walk, the fluttering in her chest shifting between excitement and nervousness like water in a glass. Her brother's tease over her conversation starter shifted it a touch more towards nerves, but her mind was still on visiting the Lady Iolanthe's estate, even as they stood in line. In a response to his tease, she lightly shrugged her shoulders.
They were next His final words did comfort her in their own way, and she nodded. Leto always worked well when she knew distinct processes. Once she had a framework in her mind of what needed to happen, she would stay within the bounds. It was her way. Taking a bit of a deeper inhale as they stepped up to the Queen. Throughout the introduction, Leto could not tear her eyes away from the Queen's decadent finery and jewelry. Magnus' nudge was welcome and she curtsied deeply to first the Queen and then the Prince Zanon.
"Your Highnesses," she started, as she rose. Her eyes immediately returned to the Queen, noting the slight smile of approval on the woman's lips, which sent a rush of relief over the nervous wings of her heart batting against her chest. A soft smile of her own settled onto her features and flowed into her posture, still standing tall but with less tension in her shoulders and her hands folded calmly in front of her.
Her eyes rounded once again as the Prince spoke to her, welcoming her to court, and she dipped her head in a bow of silent thanks as he continued. His words caused her to blink a few time, and she felt a warm blush warm the cool cream of her cheeks. It took a quick moment to register that he asked a question, and another moment to ensure she would not stumble on her words. Normally, she would glance to Magnus for a supportive nod or something of that sort, but with him standing behind her and out of sight, it was not an option.
"To say it is an honor to be welcomed so warmly is an understatement," she started, pulling together words in her mind that would make sense, be truthful, yet not be overblown, "There is so much to take in, Your Highness. I am fortunate to have my brother by my side to guide me. Without him, an evening like this would simply be a dream."
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It did not take much for Leto to decide that she liked Iolanthe, whether in admiration for her deft, natural presence in social situations or simply for the kindness she had shown in the few moments they had known each other, she was not sure. Despite whatever situation existed between her and Magnus - something she was dreadfully curious about but knew better than to ask in that moment - she could not help but admire how the lady navigated it all so delicately. It did not seem the sort of thing someone could learn strictly from a book, as Leto had attempted, but through living it.
"Then, we will join you afterward," Leto stated, very excited to now have two acquaintances at court, a Commander and a Lady. Then, as the noblewoman took her hand and squeezed it to offer the invitation, the young woman's blue eyes doubled in size as a broad smile spread across her face. The fluttering within her ribcage shifted from nerves to excitement at the noblewoman's words.
"I would love to!" Leto beamed, her excitement present as she did her best to keep her voice at an appropriate volume. Immediately, her round, dish-like eyes flashed up to Magnus like that of a child who saw a tray of sweets pass by, silently begging. It would be so lovely to have someone kind enough to teach her first-hand about navigating court, and simply to have another woman to be around.
In the several years since she had moved to Midas, she had few female friends near her age, often considering the lead servant within the household to be as close to a friend as she could manage. Her parents were lovely, of course, and Magnus was fine company as well when he was not busy, but to have someone like Iolanthe to help her through this season in her life - it was like a gift. On top of that, it would give her the opportunity to travel, a distinct jealousy that she silently held against her brother from time to time.
As Magnus and Leto shared their parting bows with Philippos and Iolanthe, she could not help but add, "We should plan it soon." The grin had not fully melted from her face as they started to walk, the fluttering in her chest shifting between excitement and nervousness like water in a glass. Her brother's tease over her conversation starter shifted it a touch more towards nerves, but her mind was still on visiting the Lady Iolanthe's estate, even as they stood in line. In a response to his tease, she lightly shrugged her shoulders.
They were next His final words did comfort her in their own way, and she nodded. Leto always worked well when she knew distinct processes. Once she had a framework in her mind of what needed to happen, she would stay within the bounds. It was her way. Taking a bit of a deeper inhale as they stepped up to the Queen. Throughout the introduction, Leto could not tear her eyes away from the Queen's decadent finery and jewelry. Magnus' nudge was welcome and she curtsied deeply to first the Queen and then the Prince Zanon.
"Your Highnesses," she started, as she rose. Her eyes immediately returned to the Queen, noting the slight smile of approval on the woman's lips, which sent a rush of relief over the nervous wings of her heart batting against her chest. A soft smile of her own settled onto her features and flowed into her posture, still standing tall but with less tension in her shoulders and her hands folded calmly in front of her.
Her eyes rounded once again as the Prince spoke to her, welcoming her to court, and she dipped her head in a bow of silent thanks as he continued. His words caused her to blink a few time, and she felt a warm blush warm the cool cream of her cheeks. It took a quick moment to register that he asked a question, and another moment to ensure she would not stumble on her words. Normally, she would glance to Magnus for a supportive nod or something of that sort, but with him standing behind her and out of sight, it was not an option.
"To say it is an honor to be welcomed so warmly is an understatement," she started, pulling together words in her mind that would make sense, be truthful, yet not be overblown, "There is so much to take in, Your Highness. I am fortunate to have my brother by my side to guide me. Without him, an evening like this would simply be a dream."
It did not take much for Leto to decide that she liked Iolanthe, whether in admiration for her deft, natural presence in social situations or simply for the kindness she had shown in the few moments they had known each other, she was not sure. Despite whatever situation existed between her and Magnus - something she was dreadfully curious about but knew better than to ask in that moment - she could not help but admire how the lady navigated it all so delicately. It did not seem the sort of thing someone could learn strictly from a book, as Leto had attempted, but through living it.
"Then, we will join you afterward," Leto stated, very excited to now have two acquaintances at court, a Commander and a Lady. Then, as the noblewoman took her hand and squeezed it to offer the invitation, the young woman's blue eyes doubled in size as a broad smile spread across her face. The fluttering within her ribcage shifted from nerves to excitement at the noblewoman's words.
"I would love to!" Leto beamed, her excitement present as she did her best to keep her voice at an appropriate volume. Immediately, her round, dish-like eyes flashed up to Magnus like that of a child who saw a tray of sweets pass by, silently begging. It would be so lovely to have someone kind enough to teach her first-hand about navigating court, and simply to have another woman to be around.
In the several years since she had moved to Midas, she had few female friends near her age, often considering the lead servant within the household to be as close to a friend as she could manage. Her parents were lovely, of course, and Magnus was fine company as well when he was not busy, but to have someone like Iolanthe to help her through this season in her life - it was like a gift. On top of that, it would give her the opportunity to travel, a distinct jealousy that she silently held against her brother from time to time.
As Magnus and Leto shared their parting bows with Philippos and Iolanthe, she could not help but add, "We should plan it soon." The grin had not fully melted from her face as they started to walk, the fluttering in her chest shifting between excitement and nervousness like water in a glass. Her brother's tease over her conversation starter shifted it a touch more towards nerves, but her mind was still on visiting the Lady Iolanthe's estate, even as they stood in line. In a response to his tease, she lightly shrugged her shoulders.
They were next His final words did comfort her in their own way, and she nodded. Leto always worked well when she knew distinct processes. Once she had a framework in her mind of what needed to happen, she would stay within the bounds. It was her way. Taking a bit of a deeper inhale as they stepped up to the Queen. Throughout the introduction, Leto could not tear her eyes away from the Queen's decadent finery and jewelry. Magnus' nudge was welcome and she curtsied deeply to first the Queen and then the Prince Zanon.
"Your Highnesses," she started, as she rose. Her eyes immediately returned to the Queen, noting the slight smile of approval on the woman's lips, which sent a rush of relief over the nervous wings of her heart batting against her chest. A soft smile of her own settled onto her features and flowed into her posture, still standing tall but with less tension in her shoulders and her hands folded calmly in front of her.
Her eyes rounded once again as the Prince spoke to her, welcoming her to court, and she dipped her head in a bow of silent thanks as he continued. His words caused her to blink a few time, and she felt a warm blush warm the cool cream of her cheeks. It took a quick moment to register that he asked a question, and another moment to ensure she would not stumble on her words. Normally, she would glance to Magnus for a supportive nod or something of that sort, but with him standing behind her and out of sight, it was not an option.
"To say it is an honor to be welcomed so warmly is an understatement," she started, pulling together words in her mind that would make sense, be truthful, yet not be overblown, "There is so much to take in, Your Highness. I am fortunate to have my brother by my side to guide me. Without him, an evening like this would simply be a dream."
Iolanthe smiled at the enthusiasm Leto showed, already fond of the girl from two interactions, and nodded at her request to plan the visit soon. She was planning to return to Arcanes shortly, why not bring along a guest to entertain them. Galatea certainly wouldn’t mind the addition of lovely visitor, Leto would bring a bit of lightness to the two older women and their myriad miseries and trials. It was difficult to keep her smile from faltering when Magnus invited himself along, and she pressed her lips together to prevent from instantly saying no.
”We shall certainly see. Good evening.”
Taking Philippos’ arm, she followed the commander and stood by his side as he had his own cup refilled, taking one of her own and keeping a bright smile on her lips. She could stand here and discuss Taengea, but all of her memories of the other country were entwined with Magnus even before their return journey spent in bed with one another. Giving a nod she tried to push aside most of those memories to focus on generalities, the fashion and the food and the people.
”It’s very different, there’s a layer of elegance atop everything, but goodness I’ve started to think their people are mad given what I heard. The king himself seems a bit touched.” Her tone was conspiratorial and she leaned in closer to speak with him, trying to bring herself to flirt and shove her insecurities away but it was difficult after seeing Magnus again.
”We were there only three days, hardly worth the time it took to get there and back, but it did show me that my husband will not be of Taengean blood. My sister-in-law is Taengean, and I do love her so I had hoped that perhaps one of her countrymen might suit, but it wasn’t meant to be I fear.”
His offer to introduce her to the princes was kind, and really she ought to be thanking him and leaning on his influence, but she found tears pricking the back of her eyes and she just wanted to flee. Her cup had been emptied in the moments they had spoken and she set it aside, offering a smile and reaching out to squeeze his arm in thanks. He had been kind at least, and once she had gotten herself under control she would return.
”Actually, I need some air, if you don’t mind. I’ll just be off for a moment, thank you.” Iolanthe briskly turned and made her way through the crowd as subtly as possible to break free and find peace.
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Iolanthe smiled at the enthusiasm Leto showed, already fond of the girl from two interactions, and nodded at her request to plan the visit soon. She was planning to return to Arcanes shortly, why not bring along a guest to entertain them. Galatea certainly wouldn’t mind the addition of lovely visitor, Leto would bring a bit of lightness to the two older women and their myriad miseries and trials. It was difficult to keep her smile from faltering when Magnus invited himself along, and she pressed her lips together to prevent from instantly saying no.
”We shall certainly see. Good evening.”
Taking Philippos’ arm, she followed the commander and stood by his side as he had his own cup refilled, taking one of her own and keeping a bright smile on her lips. She could stand here and discuss Taengea, but all of her memories of the other country were entwined with Magnus even before their return journey spent in bed with one another. Giving a nod she tried to push aside most of those memories to focus on generalities, the fashion and the food and the people.
”It’s very different, there’s a layer of elegance atop everything, but goodness I’ve started to think their people are mad given what I heard. The king himself seems a bit touched.” Her tone was conspiratorial and she leaned in closer to speak with him, trying to bring herself to flirt and shove her insecurities away but it was difficult after seeing Magnus again.
”We were there only three days, hardly worth the time it took to get there and back, but it did show me that my husband will not be of Taengean blood. My sister-in-law is Taengean, and I do love her so I had hoped that perhaps one of her countrymen might suit, but it wasn’t meant to be I fear.”
His offer to introduce her to the princes was kind, and really she ought to be thanking him and leaning on his influence, but she found tears pricking the back of her eyes and she just wanted to flee. Her cup had been emptied in the moments they had spoken and she set it aside, offering a smile and reaching out to squeeze his arm in thanks. He had been kind at least, and once she had gotten herself under control she would return.
”Actually, I need some air, if you don’t mind. I’ll just be off for a moment, thank you.” Iolanthe briskly turned and made her way through the crowd as subtly as possible to break free and find peace.
Iolanthe smiled at the enthusiasm Leto showed, already fond of the girl from two interactions, and nodded at her request to plan the visit soon. She was planning to return to Arcanes shortly, why not bring along a guest to entertain them. Galatea certainly wouldn’t mind the addition of lovely visitor, Leto would bring a bit of lightness to the two older women and their myriad miseries and trials. It was difficult to keep her smile from faltering when Magnus invited himself along, and she pressed her lips together to prevent from instantly saying no.
”We shall certainly see. Good evening.”
Taking Philippos’ arm, she followed the commander and stood by his side as he had his own cup refilled, taking one of her own and keeping a bright smile on her lips. She could stand here and discuss Taengea, but all of her memories of the other country were entwined with Magnus even before their return journey spent in bed with one another. Giving a nod she tried to push aside most of those memories to focus on generalities, the fashion and the food and the people.
”It’s very different, there’s a layer of elegance atop everything, but goodness I’ve started to think their people are mad given what I heard. The king himself seems a bit touched.” Her tone was conspiratorial and she leaned in closer to speak with him, trying to bring herself to flirt and shove her insecurities away but it was difficult after seeing Magnus again.
”We were there only three days, hardly worth the time it took to get there and back, but it did show me that my husband will not be of Taengean blood. My sister-in-law is Taengean, and I do love her so I had hoped that perhaps one of her countrymen might suit, but it wasn’t meant to be I fear.”
His offer to introduce her to the princes was kind, and really she ought to be thanking him and leaning on his influence, but she found tears pricking the back of her eyes and she just wanted to flee. Her cup had been emptied in the moments they had spoken and she set it aside, offering a smile and reaching out to squeeze his arm in thanks. He had been kind at least, and once she had gotten herself under control she would return.
”Actually, I need some air, if you don’t mind. I’ll just be off for a moment, thank you.” Iolanthe briskly turned and made her way through the crowd as subtly as possible to break free and find peace.
It was with a note of pride for Magnus to step back just a fraction of a step and allow his sister to take front and center stage as she greeted the prince and Queen. While Leto was not raised and trained to be a noble lady, the male knew his sister had been putting in a great deal of effort and tried her best, even if it resulted in her being short of temper sometimes. Sometimes, Magnus wondered if perhaps, leaving and their parents to live out the rest of their lives as common folk would be best, but then he watched at the best of lives the nobility would get, and retracted his thoughts. If there was a better life to be led, he would always try to do so for his sister. He had little chances of being deemed as royalty, for Magnus was a realist. But a noble house, he can aim for. He had come this far afterall.
The spymaster wore a wry smile at the second prince's flirtatious words. Vangelis had many a time told him of Prince Zanon and his affinity for a pretty face, even if rumor were to have it he and his wife were on the road to mending their marriage. But a few choice words that would uplift his sister's confidence and spirits, Magnus had no qualms over.
From the corner of his eye, Magnus noted the soft blush on Leto's cheeks, and hid a chuckle at how easily the words affecting the young lady. He made a mental note to remember that now Leto was of marriageable age, he would carefully vet the companions she keeps, as he stepped forward while Leto ended her words. Taking her arm again, the spymaster gave a sharp bow to the Queen, and then the prince. "My sister and I appreciate the hospitality and festivities of the night, Your Highnesses. Prince Zanon,' he turned to the male, an affirmative, more serious nod as he usually gave when it concerned work matters. "I shall update you upon news I have gained since my return from Taengea. For now, we take our leave, and wish you a pleasant evening."
With that, Magnus drew Leto away, grinning down at her once they were out of earshot. "I see someone has been practicing." he murmured, pride tinging his tone as he squeezed the arm he had a hand laid over. Turning to the side as a servant passed by, Magnus was just taking two chalices of wine being offered, when a familiar brown head flashed in the corner of his eye. Frowning as he tilted his head for a better look, the flutter of a familiar chiton made the spymaster pause, collecting his thoughts, and then turning to Leto, smile back in place.
Offering the chalice of wine to her, his eyes cautioned her on overimbibing, and then took up her arm again as he saw someone of note. "Come, sister. I shall introduce you, and then I have some work to tend to."
Leaning down to press a soft kiss to the top of her head, he weaved their way through the crowds of the court, chuckling as the gossip reached his ear of the second prince. "I do hope you did not catch sight of the half-naked Prince Zanon during the fire, Leto." he quipped, a laugh underlining his words as they finally drew to up the figure of the youngest prince nursing his wine. Bowing respectfully, a signal for Leto to do the same, Magnus greeted the youngest male of the Kotas family, someone he had contact with the least, but knew of all the same.
"Prince Silas, I see you have decided to take the quieter route for the night. I trust all is well with yourself, and your affairs after the torrid fire in Midas?" It was a question to start off their conversation, and awaited Silas's response, before Magnus tugged Leto forward, gesturing at her with a flourish in his hands. "May I introduce my sister, Leto of Chaossis. It is her first time in court, so I fear I have many to introduce her to, tonight." It was obvious in Magnus's tone of the pride and affection he had for his sister as he introduced her, watching whilst his sibling greeted the royal figure.
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It was with a note of pride for Magnus to step back just a fraction of a step and allow his sister to take front and center stage as she greeted the prince and Queen. While Leto was not raised and trained to be a noble lady, the male knew his sister had been putting in a great deal of effort and tried her best, even if it resulted in her being short of temper sometimes. Sometimes, Magnus wondered if perhaps, leaving and their parents to live out the rest of their lives as common folk would be best, but then he watched at the best of lives the nobility would get, and retracted his thoughts. If there was a better life to be led, he would always try to do so for his sister. He had little chances of being deemed as royalty, for Magnus was a realist. But a noble house, he can aim for. He had come this far afterall.
The spymaster wore a wry smile at the second prince's flirtatious words. Vangelis had many a time told him of Prince Zanon and his affinity for a pretty face, even if rumor were to have it he and his wife were on the road to mending their marriage. But a few choice words that would uplift his sister's confidence and spirits, Magnus had no qualms over.
From the corner of his eye, Magnus noted the soft blush on Leto's cheeks, and hid a chuckle at how easily the words affecting the young lady. He made a mental note to remember that now Leto was of marriageable age, he would carefully vet the companions she keeps, as he stepped forward while Leto ended her words. Taking her arm again, the spymaster gave a sharp bow to the Queen, and then the prince. "My sister and I appreciate the hospitality and festivities of the night, Your Highnesses. Prince Zanon,' he turned to the male, an affirmative, more serious nod as he usually gave when it concerned work matters. "I shall update you upon news I have gained since my return from Taengea. For now, we take our leave, and wish you a pleasant evening."
With that, Magnus drew Leto away, grinning down at her once they were out of earshot. "I see someone has been practicing." he murmured, pride tinging his tone as he squeezed the arm he had a hand laid over. Turning to the side as a servant passed by, Magnus was just taking two chalices of wine being offered, when a familiar brown head flashed in the corner of his eye. Frowning as he tilted his head for a better look, the flutter of a familiar chiton made the spymaster pause, collecting his thoughts, and then turning to Leto, smile back in place.
Offering the chalice of wine to her, his eyes cautioned her on overimbibing, and then took up her arm again as he saw someone of note. "Come, sister. I shall introduce you, and then I have some work to tend to."
Leaning down to press a soft kiss to the top of her head, he weaved their way through the crowds of the court, chuckling as the gossip reached his ear of the second prince. "I do hope you did not catch sight of the half-naked Prince Zanon during the fire, Leto." he quipped, a laugh underlining his words as they finally drew to up the figure of the youngest prince nursing his wine. Bowing respectfully, a signal for Leto to do the same, Magnus greeted the youngest male of the Kotas family, someone he had contact with the least, but knew of all the same.
"Prince Silas, I see you have decided to take the quieter route for the night. I trust all is well with yourself, and your affairs after the torrid fire in Midas?" It was a question to start off their conversation, and awaited Silas's response, before Magnus tugged Leto forward, gesturing at her with a flourish in his hands. "May I introduce my sister, Leto of Chaossis. It is her first time in court, so I fear I have many to introduce her to, tonight." It was obvious in Magnus's tone of the pride and affection he had for his sister as he introduced her, watching whilst his sibling greeted the royal figure.
It was with a note of pride for Magnus to step back just a fraction of a step and allow his sister to take front and center stage as she greeted the prince and Queen. While Leto was not raised and trained to be a noble lady, the male knew his sister had been putting in a great deal of effort and tried her best, even if it resulted in her being short of temper sometimes. Sometimes, Magnus wondered if perhaps, leaving and their parents to live out the rest of their lives as common folk would be best, but then he watched at the best of lives the nobility would get, and retracted his thoughts. If there was a better life to be led, he would always try to do so for his sister. He had little chances of being deemed as royalty, for Magnus was a realist. But a noble house, he can aim for. He had come this far afterall.
The spymaster wore a wry smile at the second prince's flirtatious words. Vangelis had many a time told him of Prince Zanon and his affinity for a pretty face, even if rumor were to have it he and his wife were on the road to mending their marriage. But a few choice words that would uplift his sister's confidence and spirits, Magnus had no qualms over.
From the corner of his eye, Magnus noted the soft blush on Leto's cheeks, and hid a chuckle at how easily the words affecting the young lady. He made a mental note to remember that now Leto was of marriageable age, he would carefully vet the companions she keeps, as he stepped forward while Leto ended her words. Taking her arm again, the spymaster gave a sharp bow to the Queen, and then the prince. "My sister and I appreciate the hospitality and festivities of the night, Your Highnesses. Prince Zanon,' he turned to the male, an affirmative, more serious nod as he usually gave when it concerned work matters. "I shall update you upon news I have gained since my return from Taengea. For now, we take our leave, and wish you a pleasant evening."
With that, Magnus drew Leto away, grinning down at her once they were out of earshot. "I see someone has been practicing." he murmured, pride tinging his tone as he squeezed the arm he had a hand laid over. Turning to the side as a servant passed by, Magnus was just taking two chalices of wine being offered, when a familiar brown head flashed in the corner of his eye. Frowning as he tilted his head for a better look, the flutter of a familiar chiton made the spymaster pause, collecting his thoughts, and then turning to Leto, smile back in place.
Offering the chalice of wine to her, his eyes cautioned her on overimbibing, and then took up her arm again as he saw someone of note. "Come, sister. I shall introduce you, and then I have some work to tend to."
Leaning down to press a soft kiss to the top of her head, he weaved their way through the crowds of the court, chuckling as the gossip reached his ear of the second prince. "I do hope you did not catch sight of the half-naked Prince Zanon during the fire, Leto." he quipped, a laugh underlining his words as they finally drew to up the figure of the youngest prince nursing his wine. Bowing respectfully, a signal for Leto to do the same, Magnus greeted the youngest male of the Kotas family, someone he had contact with the least, but knew of all the same.
"Prince Silas, I see you have decided to take the quieter route for the night. I trust all is well with yourself, and your affairs after the torrid fire in Midas?" It was a question to start off their conversation, and awaited Silas's response, before Magnus tugged Leto forward, gesturing at her with a flourish in his hands. "May I introduce my sister, Leto of Chaossis. It is her first time in court, so I fear I have many to introduce her to, tonight." It was obvious in Magnus's tone of the pride and affection he had for his sister as he introduced her, watching whilst his sibling greeted the royal figure.
Leto and Magnus were well on their way to speaking with the royal family stationed at the front of the room. The people around him were so much better at this type of event than he was. Philippos felt uncomfortable as he was forced to abide by the rules of the court and keep his manners about him. He could do it. For a while. But, he was easily distracted by another full cup of libations as he nodded to Iolanthe’s words. Nike would have probably swatted this third cup from his hand… but she wasn’t here.
”It’s very different, there’s a layer of elegance atop everything, but goodness I’ve started to think their people are mad given what I heard. The king himself seems a bit touched.”
”Perhaps, some day, I will have the pleasure of the journey there. I heard the voyage was long and hard.” He smirked to himself knowing that he was better used here on the soil of Colchis or towards the North. Taengea was a dream that lay far away with rumored beautiful women he would never get to see, or more importantly, touch. The commander so easily lost in his own thoughts, even with a beautiful maiden in front of him. Though, he didn’t often bother himself with those that were real options for a future. He didn’t want commitment.
”We were there only three days, hardly worth the time it took to get there and back, but it did show me that my husband will not be of Taengean blood. My sister-in-law is Taengean, and I do love her so I had hoped that perhaps one of her countrymen might suit, but it wasn’t meant to be I fear.”
He bowed his head and took a long sip off his cup. ”Distance can be difficult. I leave for months at a time for campaigns and have many I miss.” Philippos didn’t have a constant lover and he didn’t have a family he truly cared about. In fact, that line was merely a line to be polite in the conversation. The men who were his friends and new family were with him. Though with Vangelis and Nike away to Taengea, it could be argued he felt their absence oddly enough. Especially here.
When there was silence, he looked towards her with a tilted head. He was like a puppy looking at something unknown. Philippos was certain he had been on his best behavior, but to make a lady cry so early in the evening was a curiosity.
””Actually, I need some air, if you don’t mind. I’ll just be off for a moment, thank you.”
Her words did nothing to comfort him. Pos was left wondered what he had said or done wrong. Not that it really mattered, there were plenty of women in the room. When she returned he would likely be just as attached to another one. He just nodded kindly and allowed her to leave. Women were far too emotional of a creature. He spun on his heels as he looked at who else was in the room to talk to, perhaps he would just have to join and speak to the Prince’s alone.
Just as he did, a lady he had been with before began to make a beeline for him. Philippos swallowed the rest of his goblet and shoved it into her hand as soon as she arrived by his side. Her etiquette was impeccable as she stood far enough away not to make it uncomfortable. The commander asked her to find him another drink, but it was only a ploy to push through the crowd and find some other distraction. He moved through the people smiling and apologizing as he past not even bothering to look over his shoulder to be sure he had lost her.
His hands pressed against his armor adjusting for what must have been the thousandth time before finding himself in front of Thea of Thanasi. He cleared his throat some and bowed to her. ”Lady Thea, I apologize for my intrusion.” Philippos hadn’t meant to just appear next to her and honestly wasn’t sure if she was midconversation or even midthought. He had found to always just apologize. Especially, when now he had realized much of the Thanasi clan was around. A bow of the head to each of them that still remained in the vicinity. ”Have you heard the rumors of the room tonight?” He quirked a brow as he attempted reporting what the others at court were buzzing about.
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Leto and Magnus were well on their way to speaking with the royal family stationed at the front of the room. The people around him were so much better at this type of event than he was. Philippos felt uncomfortable as he was forced to abide by the rules of the court and keep his manners about him. He could do it. For a while. But, he was easily distracted by another full cup of libations as he nodded to Iolanthe’s words. Nike would have probably swatted this third cup from his hand… but she wasn’t here.
”It’s very different, there’s a layer of elegance atop everything, but goodness I’ve started to think their people are mad given what I heard. The king himself seems a bit touched.”
”Perhaps, some day, I will have the pleasure of the journey there. I heard the voyage was long and hard.” He smirked to himself knowing that he was better used here on the soil of Colchis or towards the North. Taengea was a dream that lay far away with rumored beautiful women he would never get to see, or more importantly, touch. The commander so easily lost in his own thoughts, even with a beautiful maiden in front of him. Though, he didn’t often bother himself with those that were real options for a future. He didn’t want commitment.
”We were there only three days, hardly worth the time it took to get there and back, but it did show me that my husband will not be of Taengean blood. My sister-in-law is Taengean, and I do love her so I had hoped that perhaps one of her countrymen might suit, but it wasn’t meant to be I fear.”
He bowed his head and took a long sip off his cup. ”Distance can be difficult. I leave for months at a time for campaigns and have many I miss.” Philippos didn’t have a constant lover and he didn’t have a family he truly cared about. In fact, that line was merely a line to be polite in the conversation. The men who were his friends and new family were with him. Though with Vangelis and Nike away to Taengea, it could be argued he felt their absence oddly enough. Especially here.
When there was silence, he looked towards her with a tilted head. He was like a puppy looking at something unknown. Philippos was certain he had been on his best behavior, but to make a lady cry so early in the evening was a curiosity.
””Actually, I need some air, if you don’t mind. I’ll just be off for a moment, thank you.”
Her words did nothing to comfort him. Pos was left wondered what he had said or done wrong. Not that it really mattered, there were plenty of women in the room. When she returned he would likely be just as attached to another one. He just nodded kindly and allowed her to leave. Women were far too emotional of a creature. He spun on his heels as he looked at who else was in the room to talk to, perhaps he would just have to join and speak to the Prince’s alone.
Just as he did, a lady he had been with before began to make a beeline for him. Philippos swallowed the rest of his goblet and shoved it into her hand as soon as she arrived by his side. Her etiquette was impeccable as she stood far enough away not to make it uncomfortable. The commander asked her to find him another drink, but it was only a ploy to push through the crowd and find some other distraction. He moved through the people smiling and apologizing as he past not even bothering to look over his shoulder to be sure he had lost her.
His hands pressed against his armor adjusting for what must have been the thousandth time before finding himself in front of Thea of Thanasi. He cleared his throat some and bowed to her. ”Lady Thea, I apologize for my intrusion.” Philippos hadn’t meant to just appear next to her and honestly wasn’t sure if she was midconversation or even midthought. He had found to always just apologize. Especially, when now he had realized much of the Thanasi clan was around. A bow of the head to each of them that still remained in the vicinity. ”Have you heard the rumors of the room tonight?” He quirked a brow as he attempted reporting what the others at court were buzzing about.
Leto and Magnus were well on their way to speaking with the royal family stationed at the front of the room. The people around him were so much better at this type of event than he was. Philippos felt uncomfortable as he was forced to abide by the rules of the court and keep his manners about him. He could do it. For a while. But, he was easily distracted by another full cup of libations as he nodded to Iolanthe’s words. Nike would have probably swatted this third cup from his hand… but she wasn’t here.
”It’s very different, there’s a layer of elegance atop everything, but goodness I’ve started to think their people are mad given what I heard. The king himself seems a bit touched.”
”Perhaps, some day, I will have the pleasure of the journey there. I heard the voyage was long and hard.” He smirked to himself knowing that he was better used here on the soil of Colchis or towards the North. Taengea was a dream that lay far away with rumored beautiful women he would never get to see, or more importantly, touch. The commander so easily lost in his own thoughts, even with a beautiful maiden in front of him. Though, he didn’t often bother himself with those that were real options for a future. He didn’t want commitment.
”We were there only three days, hardly worth the time it took to get there and back, but it did show me that my husband will not be of Taengean blood. My sister-in-law is Taengean, and I do love her so I had hoped that perhaps one of her countrymen might suit, but it wasn’t meant to be I fear.”
He bowed his head and took a long sip off his cup. ”Distance can be difficult. I leave for months at a time for campaigns and have many I miss.” Philippos didn’t have a constant lover and he didn’t have a family he truly cared about. In fact, that line was merely a line to be polite in the conversation. The men who were his friends and new family were with him. Though with Vangelis and Nike away to Taengea, it could be argued he felt their absence oddly enough. Especially here.
When there was silence, he looked towards her with a tilted head. He was like a puppy looking at something unknown. Philippos was certain he had been on his best behavior, but to make a lady cry so early in the evening was a curiosity.
””Actually, I need some air, if you don’t mind. I’ll just be off for a moment, thank you.”
Her words did nothing to comfort him. Pos was left wondered what he had said or done wrong. Not that it really mattered, there were plenty of women in the room. When she returned he would likely be just as attached to another one. He just nodded kindly and allowed her to leave. Women were far too emotional of a creature. He spun on his heels as he looked at who else was in the room to talk to, perhaps he would just have to join and speak to the Prince’s alone.
Just as he did, a lady he had been with before began to make a beeline for him. Philippos swallowed the rest of his goblet and shoved it into her hand as soon as she arrived by his side. Her etiquette was impeccable as she stood far enough away not to make it uncomfortable. The commander asked her to find him another drink, but it was only a ploy to push through the crowd and find some other distraction. He moved through the people smiling and apologizing as he past not even bothering to look over his shoulder to be sure he had lost her.
His hands pressed against his armor adjusting for what must have been the thousandth time before finding himself in front of Thea of Thanasi. He cleared his throat some and bowed to her. ”Lady Thea, I apologize for my intrusion.” Philippos hadn’t meant to just appear next to her and honestly wasn’t sure if she was midconversation or even midthought. He had found to always just apologize. Especially, when now he had realized much of the Thanasi clan was around. A bow of the head to each of them that still remained in the vicinity. ”Have you heard the rumors of the room tonight?” He quirked a brow as he attempted reporting what the others at court were buzzing about.
"I shall have to visit him during his training someday," Mihail decided, always happy to see his young nephew, though he had usually tended to avoid trips to the Kotas home in doing so. More often than not, it was Dion who visited the Thanasi home alongside his mother, although the man was willing to make some degree of effort to do so in future as was necessary. He might have been well aware that there was some archery skill in the Kotas family and, no doubt, they would have chosen excellent tutors for the boy but, to be perfectly frank, Mihail did not exactly trust easily, and that fully applied to this situation. "I cannot wait to see just how improved he is since we last met." It was hardly a secret that he cared deeply for Dion, not to mention the wellbeing of his archery talents. He would not have the Kotas who most resembled him ruined by subpar training.
As his sister took his arm in her own - and what a relief it was; this was far too much positive interaction with those he did not entirely like for Mihail - he let her drag him away, nodding in response to the query on their siblings. While he had never gotten on drastically well with Dysius, he was far closer to Thea and, for the most part, the pair of them shared their plans with one another often. Besides, Nethis fully expected them to attend court in her absence, and he was sure the others would hence be showing up in their own time. Adjusting his chiton slightly as he gazed over the crowd of current nobles now filling the hall, searching for the familiar heads of either sibling. "I assume Didi shall make his own way, but he never deems me good enough to share his plans with. Thea, however, she should be arriving shortly. She did mention plans to attend." Mihail shrugged, an air of nonchalance about his response despite his eagerness to see himself surrounded by the rest of his family. The presence of further Thanasis tended to make these situations more manageable.
It was in that moment that Thea appeared with the silence of a shadow, and that was no doubt part of the reason there were such rumours of witchcraft surrounding her. Such quiet movements were enough to still shock Mihail at moments and yet he had grown up at her side. That was the case now, as he had almost jumped at her words, turning to glare at her in a manner that she would doubtless understand as jokier than his usual expression, though it was noticeable that his gaze momentarily slid over the bodyguard who stood at her side.
"Thea!" he exclaimed at the woman, his dark eyes narrowing and lips coming together to form an irritated pout. "I would rather you didn't appear from nowhere and humiliate me with the surprise so publicly. Especially not in the presence of such delightful company..." Mihail reached over to place a hand on Ophion's upper arm, smirking up at the man. Gods, he would have loved to ravage that and he was not afraid to show it before his sisters. Still, court was not exactly the appropriate place to display such lust, and as another approached the dark-haired trio, the youngest removed his hand from where it rested to turn his gaze onto the newcomer.
The rumours. Mihail had heard snippets of what was being said as he had crossed the room alongside Evras, and they had led him to chuckle under his breath in amusement, particularly given that he had been present when such events had occurred. It was delightful to hear such gossip, though he had only spread some of the words himself - a slipped comment on the prince's state of dress during a heated evening - but he enjoyed hearing the scandal from another. The fragments of conversation involving affairs...those he did not care for, nor did he claim any responsibility for. Awkward conversations with Evras had led Mihail's assurance he would not gossip so drastically on the matter of Zanon.
His eyebrows raised, however, as he answered, a sign that he did not exactly approve of everything which had been said. "I am well aware of the rumours, though I cannot say I agree with them." He did not say much else just yet, however, despite however much Mihail might have had to say on the subject of gossip. Instead, he could not help but nod his head slightly in his sister's direction, waiting to see precisely what Evras wished to say about such rumours before he made any further remarks. She had the right, after all, to defend her husband's honour, and Mihail did so wish to prove to her that he could be impartial surrounding his brother-in-law.
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"I shall have to visit him during his training someday," Mihail decided, always happy to see his young nephew, though he had usually tended to avoid trips to the Kotas home in doing so. More often than not, it was Dion who visited the Thanasi home alongside his mother, although the man was willing to make some degree of effort to do so in future as was necessary. He might have been well aware that there was some archery skill in the Kotas family and, no doubt, they would have chosen excellent tutors for the boy but, to be perfectly frank, Mihail did not exactly trust easily, and that fully applied to this situation. "I cannot wait to see just how improved he is since we last met." It was hardly a secret that he cared deeply for Dion, not to mention the wellbeing of his archery talents. He would not have the Kotas who most resembled him ruined by subpar training.
As his sister took his arm in her own - and what a relief it was; this was far too much positive interaction with those he did not entirely like for Mihail - he let her drag him away, nodding in response to the query on their siblings. While he had never gotten on drastically well with Dysius, he was far closer to Thea and, for the most part, the pair of them shared their plans with one another often. Besides, Nethis fully expected them to attend court in her absence, and he was sure the others would hence be showing up in their own time. Adjusting his chiton slightly as he gazed over the crowd of current nobles now filling the hall, searching for the familiar heads of either sibling. "I assume Didi shall make his own way, but he never deems me good enough to share his plans with. Thea, however, she should be arriving shortly. She did mention plans to attend." Mihail shrugged, an air of nonchalance about his response despite his eagerness to see himself surrounded by the rest of his family. The presence of further Thanasis tended to make these situations more manageable.
It was in that moment that Thea appeared with the silence of a shadow, and that was no doubt part of the reason there were such rumours of witchcraft surrounding her. Such quiet movements were enough to still shock Mihail at moments and yet he had grown up at her side. That was the case now, as he had almost jumped at her words, turning to glare at her in a manner that she would doubtless understand as jokier than his usual expression, though it was noticeable that his gaze momentarily slid over the bodyguard who stood at her side.
"Thea!" he exclaimed at the woman, his dark eyes narrowing and lips coming together to form an irritated pout. "I would rather you didn't appear from nowhere and humiliate me with the surprise so publicly. Especially not in the presence of such delightful company..." Mihail reached over to place a hand on Ophion's upper arm, smirking up at the man. Gods, he would have loved to ravage that and he was not afraid to show it before his sisters. Still, court was not exactly the appropriate place to display such lust, and as another approached the dark-haired trio, the youngest removed his hand from where it rested to turn his gaze onto the newcomer.
The rumours. Mihail had heard snippets of what was being said as he had crossed the room alongside Evras, and they had led him to chuckle under his breath in amusement, particularly given that he had been present when such events had occurred. It was delightful to hear such gossip, though he had only spread some of the words himself - a slipped comment on the prince's state of dress during a heated evening - but he enjoyed hearing the scandal from another. The fragments of conversation involving affairs...those he did not care for, nor did he claim any responsibility for. Awkward conversations with Evras had led Mihail's assurance he would not gossip so drastically on the matter of Zanon.
His eyebrows raised, however, as he answered, a sign that he did not exactly approve of everything which had been said. "I am well aware of the rumours, though I cannot say I agree with them." He did not say much else just yet, however, despite however much Mihail might have had to say on the subject of gossip. Instead, he could not help but nod his head slightly in his sister's direction, waiting to see precisely what Evras wished to say about such rumours before he made any further remarks. She had the right, after all, to defend her husband's honour, and Mihail did so wish to prove to her that he could be impartial surrounding his brother-in-law.
"I shall have to visit him during his training someday," Mihail decided, always happy to see his young nephew, though he had usually tended to avoid trips to the Kotas home in doing so. More often than not, it was Dion who visited the Thanasi home alongside his mother, although the man was willing to make some degree of effort to do so in future as was necessary. He might have been well aware that there was some archery skill in the Kotas family and, no doubt, they would have chosen excellent tutors for the boy but, to be perfectly frank, Mihail did not exactly trust easily, and that fully applied to this situation. "I cannot wait to see just how improved he is since we last met." It was hardly a secret that he cared deeply for Dion, not to mention the wellbeing of his archery talents. He would not have the Kotas who most resembled him ruined by subpar training.
As his sister took his arm in her own - and what a relief it was; this was far too much positive interaction with those he did not entirely like for Mihail - he let her drag him away, nodding in response to the query on their siblings. While he had never gotten on drastically well with Dysius, he was far closer to Thea and, for the most part, the pair of them shared their plans with one another often. Besides, Nethis fully expected them to attend court in her absence, and he was sure the others would hence be showing up in their own time. Adjusting his chiton slightly as he gazed over the crowd of current nobles now filling the hall, searching for the familiar heads of either sibling. "I assume Didi shall make his own way, but he never deems me good enough to share his plans with. Thea, however, she should be arriving shortly. She did mention plans to attend." Mihail shrugged, an air of nonchalance about his response despite his eagerness to see himself surrounded by the rest of his family. The presence of further Thanasis tended to make these situations more manageable.
It was in that moment that Thea appeared with the silence of a shadow, and that was no doubt part of the reason there were such rumours of witchcraft surrounding her. Such quiet movements were enough to still shock Mihail at moments and yet he had grown up at her side. That was the case now, as he had almost jumped at her words, turning to glare at her in a manner that she would doubtless understand as jokier than his usual expression, though it was noticeable that his gaze momentarily slid over the bodyguard who stood at her side.
"Thea!" he exclaimed at the woman, his dark eyes narrowing and lips coming together to form an irritated pout. "I would rather you didn't appear from nowhere and humiliate me with the surprise so publicly. Especially not in the presence of such delightful company..." Mihail reached over to place a hand on Ophion's upper arm, smirking up at the man. Gods, he would have loved to ravage that and he was not afraid to show it before his sisters. Still, court was not exactly the appropriate place to display such lust, and as another approached the dark-haired trio, the youngest removed his hand from where it rested to turn his gaze onto the newcomer.
The rumours. Mihail had heard snippets of what was being said as he had crossed the room alongside Evras, and they had led him to chuckle under his breath in amusement, particularly given that he had been present when such events had occurred. It was delightful to hear such gossip, though he had only spread some of the words himself - a slipped comment on the prince's state of dress during a heated evening - but he enjoyed hearing the scandal from another. The fragments of conversation involving affairs...those he did not care for, nor did he claim any responsibility for. Awkward conversations with Evras had led Mihail's assurance he would not gossip so drastically on the matter of Zanon.
His eyebrows raised, however, as he answered, a sign that he did not exactly approve of everything which had been said. "I am well aware of the rumours, though I cannot say I agree with them." He did not say much else just yet, however, despite however much Mihail might have had to say on the subject of gossip. Instead, he could not help but nod his head slightly in his sister's direction, waiting to see precisely what Evras wished to say about such rumours before he made any further remarks. She had the right, after all, to defend her husband's honour, and Mihail did so wish to prove to her that he could be impartial surrounding his brother-in-law.
Her sister had always been an anomaly - albeit one that Evras welcomed. In the court where people gossiped and gave side eyes, whispered amongst themselves, the youngest of the sisters was thankful for the comfortable space she had when it came to being with her siblings. She had Zanon, but how much can she rely on her husband when he had duties to attend to, nobles to see, and when he had to ensure the Queen was accompanied on a night such as this, when the King and Vangelis were both away? Evras did not wish to burden Zanon.
Smiling when Thea spoke up as if she had been conjured when Evras had spoken of her name, she laughed, and leaned in to buss her sister's cheeks. The closest of the three, Thea, Evras and Mihail had always been as thick as thieves while Dysius and Nethis would walk together with plans for the house. Make no doubt, the siblings banded together when necessary, but within themselves, they did have favorites, and Evras did not bother denying.
Hiding a laugh when Mihail's attention obviously swayed to her sister's guard, Evras's own eyes swivelled to the handsome guard of Thea's, and gave a nod of acknowledgement. She could acknowledge the good looks of the man, which she did as she let her gaze linger on Ophion, but Evras was loyal to her husband. "I'm sure Dion would be glad to see you - he's been anxious for your visits, and misses his uncles and aunts." Evras replied her brother's earlier comment. In a way, she was thankful her son had yet to enter the mines, what with the recent collapse and fire which had came from it, she was antsy yet to allow her son to go to a place which may potentially be unsafe.
As they moved to accomodate their sister to join their trio, the whispers of the court rumors drifted by Evras's ears, which caused her to give an amused smile, eyes sparkling as she looked above the heads, attempting to find and meet her husband's eyes to give him a knowing, almost teasing grin and pointed look. Somehow she wasn't surprised that Zanon's naked dash to the temples to get her had got around the court gossip - but it was amusing, somewhat. "It isn't untrue, of course. You've seen it, Mimi." the elder one teased Mihail, hiding a laugh, but eyes glittering thanks to the younger one for at least withholding making a scathing comment about her husband's absurdity.
Peering around the crowd, it was to her surprise when Commander Philippos made an appearance next to her sister, appearing somewhat mildly disconcerted as he shifted in his armor. Hearing his question, Evras had to hide a smile again, her gaze flicking to Thea, wondering what her elder sister would reply.
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Her sister had always been an anomaly - albeit one that Evras welcomed. In the court where people gossiped and gave side eyes, whispered amongst themselves, the youngest of the sisters was thankful for the comfortable space she had when it came to being with her siblings. She had Zanon, but how much can she rely on her husband when he had duties to attend to, nobles to see, and when he had to ensure the Queen was accompanied on a night such as this, when the King and Vangelis were both away? Evras did not wish to burden Zanon.
Smiling when Thea spoke up as if she had been conjured when Evras had spoken of her name, she laughed, and leaned in to buss her sister's cheeks. The closest of the three, Thea, Evras and Mihail had always been as thick as thieves while Dysius and Nethis would walk together with plans for the house. Make no doubt, the siblings banded together when necessary, but within themselves, they did have favorites, and Evras did not bother denying.
Hiding a laugh when Mihail's attention obviously swayed to her sister's guard, Evras's own eyes swivelled to the handsome guard of Thea's, and gave a nod of acknowledgement. She could acknowledge the good looks of the man, which she did as she let her gaze linger on Ophion, but Evras was loyal to her husband. "I'm sure Dion would be glad to see you - he's been anxious for your visits, and misses his uncles and aunts." Evras replied her brother's earlier comment. In a way, she was thankful her son had yet to enter the mines, what with the recent collapse and fire which had came from it, she was antsy yet to allow her son to go to a place which may potentially be unsafe.
As they moved to accomodate their sister to join their trio, the whispers of the court rumors drifted by Evras's ears, which caused her to give an amused smile, eyes sparkling as she looked above the heads, attempting to find and meet her husband's eyes to give him a knowing, almost teasing grin and pointed look. Somehow she wasn't surprised that Zanon's naked dash to the temples to get her had got around the court gossip - but it was amusing, somewhat. "It isn't untrue, of course. You've seen it, Mimi." the elder one teased Mihail, hiding a laugh, but eyes glittering thanks to the younger one for at least withholding making a scathing comment about her husband's absurdity.
Peering around the crowd, it was to her surprise when Commander Philippos made an appearance next to her sister, appearing somewhat mildly disconcerted as he shifted in his armor. Hearing his question, Evras had to hide a smile again, her gaze flicking to Thea, wondering what her elder sister would reply.
Her sister had always been an anomaly - albeit one that Evras welcomed. In the court where people gossiped and gave side eyes, whispered amongst themselves, the youngest of the sisters was thankful for the comfortable space she had when it came to being with her siblings. She had Zanon, but how much can she rely on her husband when he had duties to attend to, nobles to see, and when he had to ensure the Queen was accompanied on a night such as this, when the King and Vangelis were both away? Evras did not wish to burden Zanon.
Smiling when Thea spoke up as if she had been conjured when Evras had spoken of her name, she laughed, and leaned in to buss her sister's cheeks. The closest of the three, Thea, Evras and Mihail had always been as thick as thieves while Dysius and Nethis would walk together with plans for the house. Make no doubt, the siblings banded together when necessary, but within themselves, they did have favorites, and Evras did not bother denying.
Hiding a laugh when Mihail's attention obviously swayed to her sister's guard, Evras's own eyes swivelled to the handsome guard of Thea's, and gave a nod of acknowledgement. She could acknowledge the good looks of the man, which she did as she let her gaze linger on Ophion, but Evras was loyal to her husband. "I'm sure Dion would be glad to see you - he's been anxious for your visits, and misses his uncles and aunts." Evras replied her brother's earlier comment. In a way, she was thankful her son had yet to enter the mines, what with the recent collapse and fire which had came from it, she was antsy yet to allow her son to go to a place which may potentially be unsafe.
As they moved to accomodate their sister to join their trio, the whispers of the court rumors drifted by Evras's ears, which caused her to give an amused smile, eyes sparkling as she looked above the heads, attempting to find and meet her husband's eyes to give him a knowing, almost teasing grin and pointed look. Somehow she wasn't surprised that Zanon's naked dash to the temples to get her had got around the court gossip - but it was amusing, somewhat. "It isn't untrue, of course. You've seen it, Mimi." the elder one teased Mihail, hiding a laugh, but eyes glittering thanks to the younger one for at least withholding making a scathing comment about her husband's absurdity.
Peering around the crowd, it was to her surprise when Commander Philippos made an appearance next to her sister, appearing somewhat mildly disconcerted as he shifted in his armor. Hearing his question, Evras had to hide a smile again, her gaze flicking to Thea, wondering what her elder sister would reply.
Thea fought to keep a smirk from forming on her rosy lips, but a twinge of mischief shone in her amber eyes at the slight jump Mihail did when the dark-haired male noticed her visage next to him. Maybe it was because she was raised to not show any herself, but she had always enjoyed getting reactions out of people. Her siblings were no exception of course, though as their big sister she would keep things innocuous, mostly giving them a bit of a jumpscare with her natural sleight of foot. After all these years, they still had never really managed to detect her, which was why the devious woman was now at the receiving end of her brother’s trademark playful scowl.
”Ophion has been with us more than enough by now, Mihail.”, Thea reassured her little brother while returning Evras’ peck with one of her own, tenderly placed on the pale princess’ ivory cheek. She then cast a sideway glance at the ‘delightful company’ in question, who was awkwardly clearing his throat to mask his bashfulness now that all eyes had averted their gaze onto him. He had been with the family enough now that nothing would probably shock him anymore, certainly not Mihail's having a scare. And the fact that they had never gotten involved at all during his years of servitude by her side, by no means, was an indicator of indifference. On the contrary, the second Thanasi daughter was more than well aware of how ungodly gorgeous her bodyguard was. On the other hand, she also knew for a fact that Nethis would give her an earful were it ever leaked out that one of her siblings, in this scenario herself, had bedded someone of lesser status. Apollo forbid, Thea would never hear the end of it about that one time when she fornicated with a lowly servant. Even if he looked like something Aphrodite had sculpted to perfection with her own two hands.
Nonetheless, before she got lost in his fierce sea-green eyes, the dark-haired siren turned back to her sister and brother. At the mention of her nephew, Thea’s eyes twinkled. ”Consider me in on one of those visits, too, Evie.”, she chimed in, already mentally tallying up a grocery list for ingredients to make some of his favorite sweets. Though her sister never explicitly said so, she was mindful of the fact that Dion was nearing the age where all royal men from a military background would start the grinding process of their training. Especially with a family like the Kotas, the boy would sure to be occupied at all times, which meant his aunts and uncles should squeeze their quality time in now while they still comfortably could.
Their family chatter was abruptly interrupted when a towering man clad in armor arrived next to the triad. Judging from his strong blue eyes, his goofy energy and the stature that loomed over even Ophion himself, the newcomer must be… Commander Phillipos. As Thea recalled, he was known for being one of Vangelis’ most devoted followers and the fearless leader to the Colchian Army. Despite being a vassal to the Kotas family, the blonde male had always been convivial towards her during any and all of their, albeit limited, interactions. Maybe it had something to do with how the crowned prince and herself held a mutually respectful relationship towards another, or perhaps it was simply because Phillipos did not really have a political bone in him.
Regardless, the man was overall tolerable to be around, and Thea did not mind his presence in the slightest bit. She would even entertain him for the time being, seeing how he was eager to meet her enough to the point of somewhat sprinting through the crowded room. And she had to admit, it would quite tickle her to hear out loud the story about how prince Zanon, one of the subjects of her avid disdain, streaked the streets of Midas mid fire in a loin cloth. So she quirked an eyebrow and answered his inquiry with a neutral expression, her voice possessing an almost inquisitive character to its tone to appear nonchalant and unknowing enough to Evras and Migail, who were probably gauging for her reaction to this supposedly hot gossip. ”Forgive me, Commander, I was not early enough to court today to have caught word of the news.” She then cast a look around the buzzing room before turning her eyes back on his features. ”Can I trouble you to brief me?”
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Thea fought to keep a smirk from forming on her rosy lips, but a twinge of mischief shone in her amber eyes at the slight jump Mihail did when the dark-haired male noticed her visage next to him. Maybe it was because she was raised to not show any herself, but she had always enjoyed getting reactions out of people. Her siblings were no exception of course, though as their big sister she would keep things innocuous, mostly giving them a bit of a jumpscare with her natural sleight of foot. After all these years, they still had never really managed to detect her, which was why the devious woman was now at the receiving end of her brother’s trademark playful scowl.
”Ophion has been with us more than enough by now, Mihail.”, Thea reassured her little brother while returning Evras’ peck with one of her own, tenderly placed on the pale princess’ ivory cheek. She then cast a sideway glance at the ‘delightful company’ in question, who was awkwardly clearing his throat to mask his bashfulness now that all eyes had averted their gaze onto him. He had been with the family enough now that nothing would probably shock him anymore, certainly not Mihail's having a scare. And the fact that they had never gotten involved at all during his years of servitude by her side, by no means, was an indicator of indifference. On the contrary, the second Thanasi daughter was more than well aware of how ungodly gorgeous her bodyguard was. On the other hand, she also knew for a fact that Nethis would give her an earful were it ever leaked out that one of her siblings, in this scenario herself, had bedded someone of lesser status. Apollo forbid, Thea would never hear the end of it about that one time when she fornicated with a lowly servant. Even if he looked like something Aphrodite had sculpted to perfection with her own two hands.
Nonetheless, before she got lost in his fierce sea-green eyes, the dark-haired siren turned back to her sister and brother. At the mention of her nephew, Thea’s eyes twinkled. ”Consider me in on one of those visits, too, Evie.”, she chimed in, already mentally tallying up a grocery list for ingredients to make some of his favorite sweets. Though her sister never explicitly said so, she was mindful of the fact that Dion was nearing the age where all royal men from a military background would start the grinding process of their training. Especially with a family like the Kotas, the boy would sure to be occupied at all times, which meant his aunts and uncles should squeeze their quality time in now while they still comfortably could.
Their family chatter was abruptly interrupted when a towering man clad in armor arrived next to the triad. Judging from his strong blue eyes, his goofy energy and the stature that loomed over even Ophion himself, the newcomer must be… Commander Phillipos. As Thea recalled, he was known for being one of Vangelis’ most devoted followers and the fearless leader to the Colchian Army. Despite being a vassal to the Kotas family, the blonde male had always been convivial towards her during any and all of their, albeit limited, interactions. Maybe it had something to do with how the crowned prince and herself held a mutually respectful relationship towards another, or perhaps it was simply because Phillipos did not really have a political bone in him.
Regardless, the man was overall tolerable to be around, and Thea did not mind his presence in the slightest bit. She would even entertain him for the time being, seeing how he was eager to meet her enough to the point of somewhat sprinting through the crowded room. And she had to admit, it would quite tickle her to hear out loud the story about how prince Zanon, one of the subjects of her avid disdain, streaked the streets of Midas mid fire in a loin cloth. So she quirked an eyebrow and answered his inquiry with a neutral expression, her voice possessing an almost inquisitive character to its tone to appear nonchalant and unknowing enough to Evras and Migail, who were probably gauging for her reaction to this supposedly hot gossip. ”Forgive me, Commander, I was not early enough to court today to have caught word of the news.” She then cast a look around the buzzing room before turning her eyes back on his features. ”Can I trouble you to brief me?”
Thea fought to keep a smirk from forming on her rosy lips, but a twinge of mischief shone in her amber eyes at the slight jump Mihail did when the dark-haired male noticed her visage next to him. Maybe it was because she was raised to not show any herself, but she had always enjoyed getting reactions out of people. Her siblings were no exception of course, though as their big sister she would keep things innocuous, mostly giving them a bit of a jumpscare with her natural sleight of foot. After all these years, they still had never really managed to detect her, which was why the devious woman was now at the receiving end of her brother’s trademark playful scowl.
”Ophion has been with us more than enough by now, Mihail.”, Thea reassured her little brother while returning Evras’ peck with one of her own, tenderly placed on the pale princess’ ivory cheek. She then cast a sideway glance at the ‘delightful company’ in question, who was awkwardly clearing his throat to mask his bashfulness now that all eyes had averted their gaze onto him. He had been with the family enough now that nothing would probably shock him anymore, certainly not Mihail's having a scare. And the fact that they had never gotten involved at all during his years of servitude by her side, by no means, was an indicator of indifference. On the contrary, the second Thanasi daughter was more than well aware of how ungodly gorgeous her bodyguard was. On the other hand, she also knew for a fact that Nethis would give her an earful were it ever leaked out that one of her siblings, in this scenario herself, had bedded someone of lesser status. Apollo forbid, Thea would never hear the end of it about that one time when she fornicated with a lowly servant. Even if he looked like something Aphrodite had sculpted to perfection with her own two hands.
Nonetheless, before she got lost in his fierce sea-green eyes, the dark-haired siren turned back to her sister and brother. At the mention of her nephew, Thea’s eyes twinkled. ”Consider me in on one of those visits, too, Evie.”, she chimed in, already mentally tallying up a grocery list for ingredients to make some of his favorite sweets. Though her sister never explicitly said so, she was mindful of the fact that Dion was nearing the age where all royal men from a military background would start the grinding process of their training. Especially with a family like the Kotas, the boy would sure to be occupied at all times, which meant his aunts and uncles should squeeze their quality time in now while they still comfortably could.
Their family chatter was abruptly interrupted when a towering man clad in armor arrived next to the triad. Judging from his strong blue eyes, his goofy energy and the stature that loomed over even Ophion himself, the newcomer must be… Commander Phillipos. As Thea recalled, he was known for being one of Vangelis’ most devoted followers and the fearless leader to the Colchian Army. Despite being a vassal to the Kotas family, the blonde male had always been convivial towards her during any and all of their, albeit limited, interactions. Maybe it had something to do with how the crowned prince and herself held a mutually respectful relationship towards another, or perhaps it was simply because Phillipos did not really have a political bone in him.
Regardless, the man was overall tolerable to be around, and Thea did not mind his presence in the slightest bit. She would even entertain him for the time being, seeing how he was eager to meet her enough to the point of somewhat sprinting through the crowded room. And she had to admit, it would quite tickle her to hear out loud the story about how prince Zanon, one of the subjects of her avid disdain, streaked the streets of Midas mid fire in a loin cloth. So she quirked an eyebrow and answered his inquiry with a neutral expression, her voice possessing an almost inquisitive character to its tone to appear nonchalant and unknowing enough to Evras and Migail, who were probably gauging for her reaction to this supposedly hot gossip. ”Forgive me, Commander, I was not early enough to court today to have caught word of the news.” She then cast a look around the buzzing room before turning her eyes back on his features. ”Can I trouble you to brief me?”
Silas would have been deaf as to not hear the whispers of the court. The noble men and women who passed him shot ridiculing looks at his older brother. He didn't want to necessarily agree with them and he certainly wouldn't publicly. His brother was acting a little reckless and strange, but he had always been a little less put together than Vangelis. Silas hoped that the scrutiny of the court wouldn't be a problem for Zanon, while he kept things in order in the kingdom. As he stood quietly, he nodded in greeting to a few passing noblemen but managed to avoid fruitless conversation as he appeared to be drinking whenever someone approached.
Magnus had caught Silas at the right time, as he placed his goblet in the hand of a slave. The prince smiled at the pair that stood before him, recognising Magnus as the Master Informer but not the lady on his arm. She looked like a sibling, although he supposed she could be a cousin or niece. Silas didn't have much to do with Magnus, but he knew he was a respectable man, and the fact he had brought a relative to such a meeting raised his respect in Silas' eyes. He ducked his head in agreement, "Yes, I'm finding it to be a refreshing change. All the repairs for the city seem to be going quite well, so I will be back off to Chaossis again soon. How are you faring yourself, and your lovely companion?"
Silas gave a polite smile to Leto, "It's a pleasure to meet you, Leto. Are you enjoying yourself here? Your brother has a point, there are many people to meet. I wouldn't stretch myself too thin, you'll want to make an impression on the people you meet." Silas did not have the experience himself of having to integrate himself into the court- but he had proved himself as a young man. He had watched many people trying to assimilate into the court culture and failing because they tried to meet everyone and everything. Magnus was a smart man, smarter than Silas for sure, so he was certain to know this already.
Silas gestured to a slave to bring more goblets of wine closer and offered one to the two as he grasped his own, his smile turning a little nervous. It seemed that Silas had forgotten the polite small talk while working with his men, and he felt a little awkward.
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This post was created by our staff team.
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Silas would have been deaf as to not hear the whispers of the court. The noble men and women who passed him shot ridiculing looks at his older brother. He didn't want to necessarily agree with them and he certainly wouldn't publicly. His brother was acting a little reckless and strange, but he had always been a little less put together than Vangelis. Silas hoped that the scrutiny of the court wouldn't be a problem for Zanon, while he kept things in order in the kingdom. As he stood quietly, he nodded in greeting to a few passing noblemen but managed to avoid fruitless conversation as he appeared to be drinking whenever someone approached.
Magnus had caught Silas at the right time, as he placed his goblet in the hand of a slave. The prince smiled at the pair that stood before him, recognising Magnus as the Master Informer but not the lady on his arm. She looked like a sibling, although he supposed she could be a cousin or niece. Silas didn't have much to do with Magnus, but he knew he was a respectable man, and the fact he had brought a relative to such a meeting raised his respect in Silas' eyes. He ducked his head in agreement, "Yes, I'm finding it to be a refreshing change. All the repairs for the city seem to be going quite well, so I will be back off to Chaossis again soon. How are you faring yourself, and your lovely companion?"
Silas gave a polite smile to Leto, "It's a pleasure to meet you, Leto. Are you enjoying yourself here? Your brother has a point, there are many people to meet. I wouldn't stretch myself too thin, you'll want to make an impression on the people you meet." Silas did not have the experience himself of having to integrate himself into the court- but he had proved himself as a young man. He had watched many people trying to assimilate into the court culture and failing because they tried to meet everyone and everything. Magnus was a smart man, smarter than Silas for sure, so he was certain to know this already.
Silas gestured to a slave to bring more goblets of wine closer and offered one to the two as he grasped his own, his smile turning a little nervous. It seemed that Silas had forgotten the polite small talk while working with his men, and he felt a little awkward.
Silas would have been deaf as to not hear the whispers of the court. The noble men and women who passed him shot ridiculing looks at his older brother. He didn't want to necessarily agree with them and he certainly wouldn't publicly. His brother was acting a little reckless and strange, but he had always been a little less put together than Vangelis. Silas hoped that the scrutiny of the court wouldn't be a problem for Zanon, while he kept things in order in the kingdom. As he stood quietly, he nodded in greeting to a few passing noblemen but managed to avoid fruitless conversation as he appeared to be drinking whenever someone approached.
Magnus had caught Silas at the right time, as he placed his goblet in the hand of a slave. The prince smiled at the pair that stood before him, recognising Magnus as the Master Informer but not the lady on his arm. She looked like a sibling, although he supposed she could be a cousin or niece. Silas didn't have much to do with Magnus, but he knew he was a respectable man, and the fact he had brought a relative to such a meeting raised his respect in Silas' eyes. He ducked his head in agreement, "Yes, I'm finding it to be a refreshing change. All the repairs for the city seem to be going quite well, so I will be back off to Chaossis again soon. How are you faring yourself, and your lovely companion?"
Silas gave a polite smile to Leto, "It's a pleasure to meet you, Leto. Are you enjoying yourself here? Your brother has a point, there are many people to meet. I wouldn't stretch myself too thin, you'll want to make an impression on the people you meet." Silas did not have the experience himself of having to integrate himself into the court- but he had proved himself as a young man. He had watched many people trying to assimilate into the court culture and failing because they tried to meet everyone and everything. Magnus was a smart man, smarter than Silas for sure, so he was certain to know this already.
Silas gestured to a slave to bring more goblets of wine closer and offered one to the two as he grasped his own, his smile turning a little nervous. It seemed that Silas had forgotten the polite small talk while working with his men, and he felt a little awkward.
His smile broadened when Mihail spoke up that he had heard them, or maybe he was foolishly thinking that he was even talking about the same thing. After all, he had intruded on their group. The rumors were probably true, just not the part about the mistress, or Pos hoped (even though Philippos was not the role model on promoting monogamy). Philippos couldn’t be sure, but he did know that the fires were hot and if he had the time or the wits he would have stripped some layers off to feel better. His arms abruptly crossed his chest over the bulky uniform giving a side eye to Mihail. It was only then Evras piped in with her own tease. Perhaps boldly encouraged to speak of it due to the way the pair of them had entered. They were getting along. And the people had to talk about something. Even in Colchis, the most serious of patrons enjoyed gossip.
Those bright blue distinct eyes darted from one angular featured Thanasi to another. He suddenly felt a tad in over his head. Course, Philippos often got himself into these predicaments, there was just no one around to save him. He bowed his head in reverence to her as she was of a much higher station than himself. Though, beyond that he had little problem conversing with those who would have been off limits had he not achieved the rank of Commander.
”Prince Zanon was a hero of the fires. It is said that he … “ His voice hushed as he invited himself in quite close to Thea to whisper the rest into her ear. The worst of it dismissed and changed, as all rumors typically did as they telephoned through a crowd. One line was changed again and again sometimes getting worse and other times getting better. ”He was shirtless in the street. Now, there are theories to why. Some less than appropriate for a lady - however, I know from experience that the flames and smoke were hot. The last word held a breath release, because that was who Philippos was. He only teased at the idea he was shirtless for any other reason besides sex with a mistress. He had been known to dabble before, unfortunately, not very good at keeping secrets.
He pulled back from his close intrusion of her personal bubble. But, the charming grin remained as he stood tall and proud. His confidence would not be diminished by the intimidating congregation of siblings. ”I could start new rumors amongst the crowd… if you care to make some?” He had a positively devious smirk as his attention moved from Evras, to Mihail, and to Thea again. He was an extroverted man with no worries about who he spoke to or what he said to them. Chasing rumors around the room and changing them just to delight on what he would hear when it came back around was a common pastime during these usually dull evenings.
JD
Staff Team
JD
Staff Team
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His smile broadened when Mihail spoke up that he had heard them, or maybe he was foolishly thinking that he was even talking about the same thing. After all, he had intruded on their group. The rumors were probably true, just not the part about the mistress, or Pos hoped (even though Philippos was not the role model on promoting monogamy). Philippos couldn’t be sure, but he did know that the fires were hot and if he had the time or the wits he would have stripped some layers off to feel better. His arms abruptly crossed his chest over the bulky uniform giving a side eye to Mihail. It was only then Evras piped in with her own tease. Perhaps boldly encouraged to speak of it due to the way the pair of them had entered. They were getting along. And the people had to talk about something. Even in Colchis, the most serious of patrons enjoyed gossip.
Those bright blue distinct eyes darted from one angular featured Thanasi to another. He suddenly felt a tad in over his head. Course, Philippos often got himself into these predicaments, there was just no one around to save him. He bowed his head in reverence to her as she was of a much higher station than himself. Though, beyond that he had little problem conversing with those who would have been off limits had he not achieved the rank of Commander.
”Prince Zanon was a hero of the fires. It is said that he … “ His voice hushed as he invited himself in quite close to Thea to whisper the rest into her ear. The worst of it dismissed and changed, as all rumors typically did as they telephoned through a crowd. One line was changed again and again sometimes getting worse and other times getting better. ”He was shirtless in the street. Now, there are theories to why. Some less than appropriate for a lady - however, I know from experience that the flames and smoke were hot. The last word held a breath release, because that was who Philippos was. He only teased at the idea he was shirtless for any other reason besides sex with a mistress. He had been known to dabble before, unfortunately, not very good at keeping secrets.
He pulled back from his close intrusion of her personal bubble. But, the charming grin remained as he stood tall and proud. His confidence would not be diminished by the intimidating congregation of siblings. ”I could start new rumors amongst the crowd… if you care to make some?” He had a positively devious smirk as his attention moved from Evras, to Mihail, and to Thea again. He was an extroverted man with no worries about who he spoke to or what he said to them. Chasing rumors around the room and changing them just to delight on what he would hear when it came back around was a common pastime during these usually dull evenings.
His smile broadened when Mihail spoke up that he had heard them, or maybe he was foolishly thinking that he was even talking about the same thing. After all, he had intruded on their group. The rumors were probably true, just not the part about the mistress, or Pos hoped (even though Philippos was not the role model on promoting monogamy). Philippos couldn’t be sure, but he did know that the fires were hot and if he had the time or the wits he would have stripped some layers off to feel better. His arms abruptly crossed his chest over the bulky uniform giving a side eye to Mihail. It was only then Evras piped in with her own tease. Perhaps boldly encouraged to speak of it due to the way the pair of them had entered. They were getting along. And the people had to talk about something. Even in Colchis, the most serious of patrons enjoyed gossip.
Those bright blue distinct eyes darted from one angular featured Thanasi to another. He suddenly felt a tad in over his head. Course, Philippos often got himself into these predicaments, there was just no one around to save him. He bowed his head in reverence to her as she was of a much higher station than himself. Though, beyond that he had little problem conversing with those who would have been off limits had he not achieved the rank of Commander.
”Prince Zanon was a hero of the fires. It is said that he … “ His voice hushed as he invited himself in quite close to Thea to whisper the rest into her ear. The worst of it dismissed and changed, as all rumors typically did as they telephoned through a crowd. One line was changed again and again sometimes getting worse and other times getting better. ”He was shirtless in the street. Now, there are theories to why. Some less than appropriate for a lady - however, I know from experience that the flames and smoke were hot. The last word held a breath release, because that was who Philippos was. He only teased at the idea he was shirtless for any other reason besides sex with a mistress. He had been known to dabble before, unfortunately, not very good at keeping secrets.
He pulled back from his close intrusion of her personal bubble. But, the charming grin remained as he stood tall and proud. His confidence would not be diminished by the intimidating congregation of siblings. ”I could start new rumors amongst the crowd… if you care to make some?” He had a positively devious smirk as his attention moved from Evras, to Mihail, and to Thea again. He was an extroverted man with no worries about who he spoke to or what he said to them. Chasing rumors around the room and changing them just to delight on what he would hear when it came back around was a common pastime during these usually dull evenings.
