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To say that Magnus had been scarce following his return from Taengea would have been an understatement. Even with Leto being his personal guest at court, she had shared more time with members of the royal family (quite shockingly) and the Dikastirio statuary (not quite so shockingly) than her own brother.
There were shared dinners with the family and brief moments, if she were fortunate enough to rise early, to see him before he left in the mornings. Of course, these moments were all in the presence of their parents, who had always preferred plainer topics and jokes around their children. The talk of business, as their father said, was for daylight hours. Dinner was her favorite part of the day, but it was always over far too quickly, as the Master Informer would resume his duties behind the closed doors of his study, which only opened if he was obliged to entertain a visitor in the night - a rather frequent occurrence. Very rarely, he would emerge before all the lamps in the house had been dimmed, especially in the weeks following the fires.
Tonight, as always, he spoke lightly of his work at dinner, only to let their parents know he would likely not return until late or until the next day, as the investigations in the mines would be extensive. Leto, now growing more well versed in the development of her courtier's mask, was cautious not to show her reaction at the dinner table, merely mimicking her mother's soft smile as she urged her only son to be careful. As dinner came to a close, she helped her mother and the housemaid to clear the table, before excusing herself. As she began to leave, she glanced quickly over her shoulder at the two women before silently plucking a bottle of claret from the wooden rack along the wall. With the quietest swish of fabric, she turned the corner and
Leto quietly slipped into one of their small, rarely-used drawing rooms, a lamp in one hand as the long, ivory fingers of her other hand deftly plucked a small, checkered case from the shelf. Taking a moment to blow the dust away, she smiled, much like a huntress setting a trap. Passing her parents as they took an evening walk through their interior courtyard, she kept her steps quiet as she watched her brother's tall frame move along the second story out of the study, a glow from the doorway indicating his preparations for a long evening. With each step, she thought of all the things she wanted to tell him, particularly about the shared interests and fledgling acquaintance between her and Prince Silas of Kotas, including and leading to a recent missive and request she had received from the young royal. Additionally, she had several things to ask him, especially following his rather distinctly timed disappearance at court with Lady Iolanthe of Pesistratos. The young noblewoman had very quickly become a person of interest for Leto, but she knew it was not her place to bring it up around the dinner table, as Magnus had not spoken a word of her. Yet.
Quickly stealing up the stairs, she watched as he stepped into his own quarters for a moment before swiftly sliding through the doorway into his study, smiling as she quickly set the bottle of claret on the marble, claw-footed table near the hearth, swiftly going about her preparations as quietly as possible.
There were a few things in this life of which Leto was certain: the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, the sea will always bear salt, and Magnus could not resist a game of Pettiea. At least, not when they were younger. Once, when he visited Chaossis, he taught her the game as it had been taught to him by his peers and mentor. It was a game of mental challenge, not only as the pieces on the board waged war against one another, but as a way to start a conversation. There were many missed conversations between the two of them over the years, she knew, and as shown by the dust on the case, it had been some time since they had taken the time to do recapture these stolen moments. She hoped that this would be enough, and that the years had not changed them so entirely.
Across the room, she retrieved two crystal glasses, their soft clatter on the marble table the only sign of her presence in the room. Uncorking the bottle of claret, she began to fill the glasses, catching the drip from the mouth of the bottle before it could marr the white marble of the table. Just as she placed the bottle down, she felt rather than saw her brother open the door behind her back, smiling softly to herself, feeling for the briefest of moments a touch of nervousness. Her brother, the Master Informer, had a desk filled with papers and missives - what if he was too preoccupied for this?
"I know there are many things to be done before dawn," she started, not looking at him as she began to set up the game. Her delicate, ivory fingers placing the pieces along the sides of the board, eight in a row, "But, before you bury yourself beneath your duties, we could...share some time." The words as they came out of her mouth sounded off, as if she were making an appointment with the Master Informer as opposed to inviting her brother for a bit of wit and fun. However, as she stood and looked along the highly ornamented walls of his study, she could see how the line could be blurred, especially now that she was a part of the world of court. It was uncomfortable in some ways, but she persisted, pinning him with her round, blue eyes for a quiet moment before quietly adding,"If you have the time, that is."
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To say that Magnus had been scarce following his return from Taengea would have been an understatement. Even with Leto being his personal guest at court, she had shared more time with members of the royal family (quite shockingly) and the Dikastirio statuary (not quite so shockingly) than her own brother.
There were shared dinners with the family and brief moments, if she were fortunate enough to rise early, to see him before he left in the mornings. Of course, these moments were all in the presence of their parents, who had always preferred plainer topics and jokes around their children. The talk of business, as their father said, was for daylight hours. Dinner was her favorite part of the day, but it was always over far too quickly, as the Master Informer would resume his duties behind the closed doors of his study, which only opened if he was obliged to entertain a visitor in the night - a rather frequent occurrence. Very rarely, he would emerge before all the lamps in the house had been dimmed, especially in the weeks following the fires.
Tonight, as always, he spoke lightly of his work at dinner, only to let their parents know he would likely not return until late or until the next day, as the investigations in the mines would be extensive. Leto, now growing more well versed in the development of her courtier's mask, was cautious not to show her reaction at the dinner table, merely mimicking her mother's soft smile as she urged her only son to be careful. As dinner came to a close, she helped her mother and the housemaid to clear the table, before excusing herself. As she began to leave, she glanced quickly over her shoulder at the two women before silently plucking a bottle of claret from the wooden rack along the wall. With the quietest swish of fabric, she turned the corner and
Leto quietly slipped into one of their small, rarely-used drawing rooms, a lamp in one hand as the long, ivory fingers of her other hand deftly plucked a small, checkered case from the shelf. Taking a moment to blow the dust away, she smiled, much like a huntress setting a trap. Passing her parents as they took an evening walk through their interior courtyard, she kept her steps quiet as she watched her brother's tall frame move along the second story out of the study, a glow from the doorway indicating his preparations for a long evening. With each step, she thought of all the things she wanted to tell him, particularly about the shared interests and fledgling acquaintance between her and Prince Silas of Kotas, including and leading to a recent missive and request she had received from the young royal. Additionally, she had several things to ask him, especially following his rather distinctly timed disappearance at court with Lady Iolanthe of Pesistratos. The young noblewoman had very quickly become a person of interest for Leto, but she knew it was not her place to bring it up around the dinner table, as Magnus had not spoken a word of her. Yet.
Quickly stealing up the stairs, she watched as he stepped into his own quarters for a moment before swiftly sliding through the doorway into his study, smiling as she quickly set the bottle of claret on the marble, claw-footed table near the hearth, swiftly going about her preparations as quietly as possible.
There were a few things in this life of which Leto was certain: the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, the sea will always bear salt, and Magnus could not resist a game of Pettiea. At least, not when they were younger. Once, when he visited Chaossis, he taught her the game as it had been taught to him by his peers and mentor. It was a game of mental challenge, not only as the pieces on the board waged war against one another, but as a way to start a conversation. There were many missed conversations between the two of them over the years, she knew, and as shown by the dust on the case, it had been some time since they had taken the time to do recapture these stolen moments. She hoped that this would be enough, and that the years had not changed them so entirely.
Across the room, she retrieved two crystal glasses, their soft clatter on the marble table the only sign of her presence in the room. Uncorking the bottle of claret, she began to fill the glasses, catching the drip from the mouth of the bottle before it could marr the white marble of the table. Just as she placed the bottle down, she felt rather than saw her brother open the door behind her back, smiling softly to herself, feeling for the briefest of moments a touch of nervousness. Her brother, the Master Informer, had a desk filled with papers and missives - what if he was too preoccupied for this?
"I know there are many things to be done before dawn," she started, not looking at him as she began to set up the game. Her delicate, ivory fingers placing the pieces along the sides of the board, eight in a row, "But, before you bury yourself beneath your duties, we could...share some time." The words as they came out of her mouth sounded off, as if she were making an appointment with the Master Informer as opposed to inviting her brother for a bit of wit and fun. However, as she stood and looked along the highly ornamented walls of his study, she could see how the line could be blurred, especially now that she was a part of the world of court. It was uncomfortable in some ways, but she persisted, pinning him with her round, blue eyes for a quiet moment before quietly adding,"If you have the time, that is."
To say that Magnus had been scarce following his return from Taengea would have been an understatement. Even with Leto being his personal guest at court, she had shared more time with members of the royal family (quite shockingly) and the Dikastirio statuary (not quite so shockingly) than her own brother.
There were shared dinners with the family and brief moments, if she were fortunate enough to rise early, to see him before he left in the mornings. Of course, these moments were all in the presence of their parents, who had always preferred plainer topics and jokes around their children. The talk of business, as their father said, was for daylight hours. Dinner was her favorite part of the day, but it was always over far too quickly, as the Master Informer would resume his duties behind the closed doors of his study, which only opened if he was obliged to entertain a visitor in the night - a rather frequent occurrence. Very rarely, he would emerge before all the lamps in the house had been dimmed, especially in the weeks following the fires.
Tonight, as always, he spoke lightly of his work at dinner, only to let their parents know he would likely not return until late or until the next day, as the investigations in the mines would be extensive. Leto, now growing more well versed in the development of her courtier's mask, was cautious not to show her reaction at the dinner table, merely mimicking her mother's soft smile as she urged her only son to be careful. As dinner came to a close, she helped her mother and the housemaid to clear the table, before excusing herself. As she began to leave, she glanced quickly over her shoulder at the two women before silently plucking a bottle of claret from the wooden rack along the wall. With the quietest swish of fabric, she turned the corner and
Leto quietly slipped into one of their small, rarely-used drawing rooms, a lamp in one hand as the long, ivory fingers of her other hand deftly plucked a small, checkered case from the shelf. Taking a moment to blow the dust away, she smiled, much like a huntress setting a trap. Passing her parents as they took an evening walk through their interior courtyard, she kept her steps quiet as she watched her brother's tall frame move along the second story out of the study, a glow from the doorway indicating his preparations for a long evening. With each step, she thought of all the things she wanted to tell him, particularly about the shared interests and fledgling acquaintance between her and Prince Silas of Kotas, including and leading to a recent missive and request she had received from the young royal. Additionally, she had several things to ask him, especially following his rather distinctly timed disappearance at court with Lady Iolanthe of Pesistratos. The young noblewoman had very quickly become a person of interest for Leto, but she knew it was not her place to bring it up around the dinner table, as Magnus had not spoken a word of her. Yet.
Quickly stealing up the stairs, she watched as he stepped into his own quarters for a moment before swiftly sliding through the doorway into his study, smiling as she quickly set the bottle of claret on the marble, claw-footed table near the hearth, swiftly going about her preparations as quietly as possible.
There were a few things in this life of which Leto was certain: the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, the sea will always bear salt, and Magnus could not resist a game of Pettiea. At least, not when they were younger. Once, when he visited Chaossis, he taught her the game as it had been taught to him by his peers and mentor. It was a game of mental challenge, not only as the pieces on the board waged war against one another, but as a way to start a conversation. There were many missed conversations between the two of them over the years, she knew, and as shown by the dust on the case, it had been some time since they had taken the time to do recapture these stolen moments. She hoped that this would be enough, and that the years had not changed them so entirely.
Across the room, she retrieved two crystal glasses, their soft clatter on the marble table the only sign of her presence in the room. Uncorking the bottle of claret, she began to fill the glasses, catching the drip from the mouth of the bottle before it could marr the white marble of the table. Just as she placed the bottle down, she felt rather than saw her brother open the door behind her back, smiling softly to herself, feeling for the briefest of moments a touch of nervousness. Her brother, the Master Informer, had a desk filled with papers and missives - what if he was too preoccupied for this?
"I know there are many things to be done before dawn," she started, not looking at him as she began to set up the game. Her delicate, ivory fingers placing the pieces along the sides of the board, eight in a row, "But, before you bury yourself beneath your duties, we could...share some time." The words as they came out of her mouth sounded off, as if she were making an appointment with the Master Informer as opposed to inviting her brother for a bit of wit and fun. However, as she stood and looked along the highly ornamented walls of his study, she could see how the line could be blurred, especially now that she was a part of the world of court. It was uncomfortable in some ways, but she persisted, pinning him with her round, blue eyes for a quiet moment before quietly adding,"If you have the time, that is."
He would always try and make time for his family. In earlier days when he had first moved his whole family to Midas from Chassis, Magnus would attempt to ensure he returned home every night to share the evening meal and update each other on how life has been like, before retiring to his study for the night. He had, on occasion, brought Leto out to the market, or invite seamstresses to the manor he purchased for the family in order to outfit his family in finer clothings compared to the ones they were back in Chaossis.
But as his responsibilities grew and his travels increased, the shared dinners and brief moments grew shorter and shorter. His mother still did his best to wake up before he did in the morning and send him off, but as age caught up to them, they too needed their rest more and more, and Magnus did not fault them. He did his best to still return home daily for the evening meals he looked forward to, but when he was away, he had no choice but to opt out of them, and that meant that over the time he had spent in Taengea, he had seen scarce little of his parents and his sister. The disaster of a fire he had returned to did not help in offering him more time to spend with them, and the court attendance had been the first time in weeks he had properly spent with Leto... and even that night had been interupted.
He had a deadline to chase, however. The mines had people unaccounted for, as much as Magnus suspects anyway. From the numbers given to him by Maeva, when compared side by side to the ones he had gotten from the royal files, it did not match. He had to go through them one last time, but by the time he had emerged from his study for dinner, his eyes had been crossed. He knew he had to go down to the mines tomorrow... but a night with is family was just what he needed.
His laughter had been tired, his eyes half-masted even throughout the meal, but a couple of glasses of wine latere assisted in his spirits. By the time dinner came to a close, Magnus was made very aware by his mother, that her only son was now a heathen who was unwashed and cleaned, and Magnus was left with little choice but to call for a bath and a change of clothes under is mother's duress. Barely noticing as his sister slipped away, the male was led to his room where he was given a warm bath, and then dressed in a simple white chiton. With hair damp still, Magnus took a little while more before he picked up his longer cloak, wrapping the forest green material himself and bringing his disheveled self to his study. As much as he'd like to collapse in his bed, he had work to finish, and the man was a classified workaholic.
Except when he opened his door, and saw the form of his bushy-haired, impish sister staring at him, two glasses of claret and a slightly uncertain smile on her face, inviting him to play the game they shared many memories over.
And then she mentioned time.
Magnus's heart lurched, and for a brief moment, he was reminded just how much time he had not spent with his sister.... and to know what a woman she has grown to become. He escorts her to court, convinces her that she is deserving of no less then a noble marriage... but what has his sister grown into ever since they moved to Midas? A faint sense of nostalgia and guilt gripped at Magnus as his eyes flickered to the pile of papers on his table, illuminated by a small lamp, and then back at Leto waiting with a half-set up board, and the uncomfortable blue eyes showing him much more then her words did.
He couldn't.
Turning on his heels, without a word, Magnus strode towards his table, making as if he was about to go to his work anyway. But just as he reached the edge of it, he bent, and then blew out the lamp waiting at the edge, and turned to grin at Leto. "Of course. If you would finish setting up the board, slowpoke."
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This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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He would always try and make time for his family. In earlier days when he had first moved his whole family to Midas from Chassis, Magnus would attempt to ensure he returned home every night to share the evening meal and update each other on how life has been like, before retiring to his study for the night. He had, on occasion, brought Leto out to the market, or invite seamstresses to the manor he purchased for the family in order to outfit his family in finer clothings compared to the ones they were back in Chaossis.
But as his responsibilities grew and his travels increased, the shared dinners and brief moments grew shorter and shorter. His mother still did his best to wake up before he did in the morning and send him off, but as age caught up to them, they too needed their rest more and more, and Magnus did not fault them. He did his best to still return home daily for the evening meals he looked forward to, but when he was away, he had no choice but to opt out of them, and that meant that over the time he had spent in Taengea, he had seen scarce little of his parents and his sister. The disaster of a fire he had returned to did not help in offering him more time to spend with them, and the court attendance had been the first time in weeks he had properly spent with Leto... and even that night had been interupted.
He had a deadline to chase, however. The mines had people unaccounted for, as much as Magnus suspects anyway. From the numbers given to him by Maeva, when compared side by side to the ones he had gotten from the royal files, it did not match. He had to go through them one last time, but by the time he had emerged from his study for dinner, his eyes had been crossed. He knew he had to go down to the mines tomorrow... but a night with is family was just what he needed.
His laughter had been tired, his eyes half-masted even throughout the meal, but a couple of glasses of wine latere assisted in his spirits. By the time dinner came to a close, Magnus was made very aware by his mother, that her only son was now a heathen who was unwashed and cleaned, and Magnus was left with little choice but to call for a bath and a change of clothes under is mother's duress. Barely noticing as his sister slipped away, the male was led to his room where he was given a warm bath, and then dressed in a simple white chiton. With hair damp still, Magnus took a little while more before he picked up his longer cloak, wrapping the forest green material himself and bringing his disheveled self to his study. As much as he'd like to collapse in his bed, he had work to finish, and the man was a classified workaholic.
Except when he opened his door, and saw the form of his bushy-haired, impish sister staring at him, two glasses of claret and a slightly uncertain smile on her face, inviting him to play the game they shared many memories over.
And then she mentioned time.
Magnus's heart lurched, and for a brief moment, he was reminded just how much time he had not spent with his sister.... and to know what a woman she has grown to become. He escorts her to court, convinces her that she is deserving of no less then a noble marriage... but what has his sister grown into ever since they moved to Midas? A faint sense of nostalgia and guilt gripped at Magnus as his eyes flickered to the pile of papers on his table, illuminated by a small lamp, and then back at Leto waiting with a half-set up board, and the uncomfortable blue eyes showing him much more then her words did.
He couldn't.
Turning on his heels, without a word, Magnus strode towards his table, making as if he was about to go to his work anyway. But just as he reached the edge of it, he bent, and then blew out the lamp waiting at the edge, and turned to grin at Leto. "Of course. If you would finish setting up the board, slowpoke."
He would always try and make time for his family. In earlier days when he had first moved his whole family to Midas from Chassis, Magnus would attempt to ensure he returned home every night to share the evening meal and update each other on how life has been like, before retiring to his study for the night. He had, on occasion, brought Leto out to the market, or invite seamstresses to the manor he purchased for the family in order to outfit his family in finer clothings compared to the ones they were back in Chaossis.
But as his responsibilities grew and his travels increased, the shared dinners and brief moments grew shorter and shorter. His mother still did his best to wake up before he did in the morning and send him off, but as age caught up to them, they too needed their rest more and more, and Magnus did not fault them. He did his best to still return home daily for the evening meals he looked forward to, but when he was away, he had no choice but to opt out of them, and that meant that over the time he had spent in Taengea, he had seen scarce little of his parents and his sister. The disaster of a fire he had returned to did not help in offering him more time to spend with them, and the court attendance had been the first time in weeks he had properly spent with Leto... and even that night had been interupted.
He had a deadline to chase, however. The mines had people unaccounted for, as much as Magnus suspects anyway. From the numbers given to him by Maeva, when compared side by side to the ones he had gotten from the royal files, it did not match. He had to go through them one last time, but by the time he had emerged from his study for dinner, his eyes had been crossed. He knew he had to go down to the mines tomorrow... but a night with is family was just what he needed.
His laughter had been tired, his eyes half-masted even throughout the meal, but a couple of glasses of wine latere assisted in his spirits. By the time dinner came to a close, Magnus was made very aware by his mother, that her only son was now a heathen who was unwashed and cleaned, and Magnus was left with little choice but to call for a bath and a change of clothes under is mother's duress. Barely noticing as his sister slipped away, the male was led to his room where he was given a warm bath, and then dressed in a simple white chiton. With hair damp still, Magnus took a little while more before he picked up his longer cloak, wrapping the forest green material himself and bringing his disheveled self to his study. As much as he'd like to collapse in his bed, he had work to finish, and the man was a classified workaholic.
Except when he opened his door, and saw the form of his bushy-haired, impish sister staring at him, two glasses of claret and a slightly uncertain smile on her face, inviting him to play the game they shared many memories over.
And then she mentioned time.
Magnus's heart lurched, and for a brief moment, he was reminded just how much time he had not spent with his sister.... and to know what a woman she has grown to become. He escorts her to court, convinces her that she is deserving of no less then a noble marriage... but what has his sister grown into ever since they moved to Midas? A faint sense of nostalgia and guilt gripped at Magnus as his eyes flickered to the pile of papers on his table, illuminated by a small lamp, and then back at Leto waiting with a half-set up board, and the uncomfortable blue eyes showing him much more then her words did.
He couldn't.
Turning on his heels, without a word, Magnus strode towards his table, making as if he was about to go to his work anyway. But just as he reached the edge of it, he bent, and then blew out the lamp waiting at the edge, and turned to grin at Leto. "Of course. If you would finish setting up the board, slowpoke."
Blue eyes watched her brother's form as it entered the room, following the glances that his own eyes made towards the desk, piled high with important missives from important people. Tomorrow, as he had mentioned, was a paramount day for the kingdom as the investigation into the fires would begin. As he often was, he was the linchpin in this circumstance, the gateway through which information passes to those who can truly wield the power in such circumstances. On more than one occasion, she was certain he used his grasp over that valuable currency to shape the Kingdom of Colchis as a sculptor could shape clay, but as always, kept her lips sealed with regard to those thoughts.
Perhaps, she made a miscalculation, and tonight he was needed by the kingdom, not by her loneliness.
That thought was supported briefly for a moment as he began to cross towards the desk, wordlessly. Her ribcage seemed to shrink in size, closing in around her heart and lungs for a brief moment, yet in that same flash of feeling, she swallowed hard as her mind encouraged her to continue this never-ending practice in composure. She was not longer a volatile teenager, or so she often convinced herself, and if he had important business to attend, then games could wait...
All of these thoughts and feelings flared for the briefest of moments, and were snuffed just as quickly as the lamp on his desk. No practice in composure could hide the widening of her eyes and then the parting of her lips in a soft smile, especially at his teasing tone.
"In my defense, I thought I had more time," she teased back, her hands placing the pieces at double the pace as she spoke. "You can lose hours in the new wash basin if you're not careful." She would know. Ever since moving into Magnus' estate seven years ago, some upgrades had been made, including a deeper basin in their washroom. Magnus had always made an effort to spoil her with fine oils and perfumes the moment he discovered her innate ability to turn into a crocodile as soon as she stepped in the water. It was his way to show his love and to dote, what with his lack of time.
"White goes first," she stated, once the board had been set, leaving it just askew enough to be turned either way. Picking up her chalice of claret, she took a seat across from her brother, a soft grin still on her lips. Magnus, by his nature and now his profession, had always been more inclined to watch the move another made before making his own. Always the hunter, never the hunted. Leto was almost certain which way it would turn.
Almost.
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Blue eyes watched her brother's form as it entered the room, following the glances that his own eyes made towards the desk, piled high with important missives from important people. Tomorrow, as he had mentioned, was a paramount day for the kingdom as the investigation into the fires would begin. As he often was, he was the linchpin in this circumstance, the gateway through which information passes to those who can truly wield the power in such circumstances. On more than one occasion, she was certain he used his grasp over that valuable currency to shape the Kingdom of Colchis as a sculptor could shape clay, but as always, kept her lips sealed with regard to those thoughts.
Perhaps, she made a miscalculation, and tonight he was needed by the kingdom, not by her loneliness.
That thought was supported briefly for a moment as he began to cross towards the desk, wordlessly. Her ribcage seemed to shrink in size, closing in around her heart and lungs for a brief moment, yet in that same flash of feeling, she swallowed hard as her mind encouraged her to continue this never-ending practice in composure. She was not longer a volatile teenager, or so she often convinced herself, and if he had important business to attend, then games could wait...
All of these thoughts and feelings flared for the briefest of moments, and were snuffed just as quickly as the lamp on his desk. No practice in composure could hide the widening of her eyes and then the parting of her lips in a soft smile, especially at his teasing tone.
"In my defense, I thought I had more time," she teased back, her hands placing the pieces at double the pace as she spoke. "You can lose hours in the new wash basin if you're not careful." She would know. Ever since moving into Magnus' estate seven years ago, some upgrades had been made, including a deeper basin in their washroom. Magnus had always made an effort to spoil her with fine oils and perfumes the moment he discovered her innate ability to turn into a crocodile as soon as she stepped in the water. It was his way to show his love and to dote, what with his lack of time.
"White goes first," she stated, once the board had been set, leaving it just askew enough to be turned either way. Picking up her chalice of claret, she took a seat across from her brother, a soft grin still on her lips. Magnus, by his nature and now his profession, had always been more inclined to watch the move another made before making his own. Always the hunter, never the hunted. Leto was almost certain which way it would turn.
Almost.
Blue eyes watched her brother's form as it entered the room, following the glances that his own eyes made towards the desk, piled high with important missives from important people. Tomorrow, as he had mentioned, was a paramount day for the kingdom as the investigation into the fires would begin. As he often was, he was the linchpin in this circumstance, the gateway through which information passes to those who can truly wield the power in such circumstances. On more than one occasion, she was certain he used his grasp over that valuable currency to shape the Kingdom of Colchis as a sculptor could shape clay, but as always, kept her lips sealed with regard to those thoughts.
Perhaps, she made a miscalculation, and tonight he was needed by the kingdom, not by her loneliness.
That thought was supported briefly for a moment as he began to cross towards the desk, wordlessly. Her ribcage seemed to shrink in size, closing in around her heart and lungs for a brief moment, yet in that same flash of feeling, she swallowed hard as her mind encouraged her to continue this never-ending practice in composure. She was not longer a volatile teenager, or so she often convinced herself, and if he had important business to attend, then games could wait...
All of these thoughts and feelings flared for the briefest of moments, and were snuffed just as quickly as the lamp on his desk. No practice in composure could hide the widening of her eyes and then the parting of her lips in a soft smile, especially at his teasing tone.
"In my defense, I thought I had more time," she teased back, her hands placing the pieces at double the pace as she spoke. "You can lose hours in the new wash basin if you're not careful." She would know. Ever since moving into Magnus' estate seven years ago, some upgrades had been made, including a deeper basin in their washroom. Magnus had always made an effort to spoil her with fine oils and perfumes the moment he discovered her innate ability to turn into a crocodile as soon as she stepped in the water. It was his way to show his love and to dote, what with his lack of time.
"White goes first," she stated, once the board had been set, leaving it just askew enough to be turned either way. Picking up her chalice of claret, she took a seat across from her brother, a soft grin still on her lips. Magnus, by his nature and now his profession, had always been more inclined to watch the move another made before making his own. Always the hunter, never the hunted. Leto was almost certain which way it would turn.
Almost.
While Magnus's job was not as obvious to many as it was to his own superiors, as the spymaster, that did not mean he just sat on his behind whenever important occasions arose. His was a position of much debate, for he had to be able to perform his duties and assist the crown, yet at the same time garner information from, at times, very questionable sources which he was not always at the liberty to expose. All of that results in Magnus oft times finding it hard to seek that balance between truth and deceit. Too often, has Magnus thought of perhaps seeking out a different form of employment, yet to do that would be to risk the livelihood he has worked so hard to ensure his family had. So until he achieved his dream, he couldn't stop at what he's worked so hard to achieve.
But at the same time, Magnus wanted to be sure that he wasn't sacrificing one aim to work for another. After all, what good would his dream be, if the one he worked for was left behind eating dust? If Leto had sought him out, the dark-haired male knew his sister was at least seeking some form of comfort, especially when she had started setting up a game of Pettiea. Magnus also knew however, that it had been awhile since he's properly sat down with his sister, and it was long overdue.
"You always get lost in new items." he replied in a gently teasing tone. Straightening up from where he had blew out the lamp at his table, on his way back, he lit up a lamp nearer to the table where his sister was setting up, grabbing one of the glasses of claret before settling down in the seat opposing to the one Leto had chosen, as she finished up the last few pieces. They had both taken after their father's darker looks, much to their mother's chagrin. But Nifakis had been proud of his children, in as much as they took after his looks, but more because they had taken after their mother's personality and zest for survival and life. It was why Magnus had wanted to ensure he wanted to allow them a legacy to leave behind.
A Noble House in their name.
The male nodded, not needing Leto to know how Pettiea worked. It had been a game he had grew up with, something Nifakis would pit brother and sister against when they were younger. Their father had said it would sharpen their mind, and that it definitely did. Magnus half suspected that it was from playing copious rounds of this game that had enabled his ability to work as Master Informer for their Kingdom today. However, he also disliked being the first, and when he noticed Leto had intentionally given him white, Magnus flashed an irritable scowl at her, but gave in.
Lifting a hand, Magnus started slow, using his rook first in a move that seemed more watchful then it was offensive. Completing his move, the male gestured with a hand at his sister, grinning at her through the dim light as he leaned back in his seat. "Have you been practicing, sister?"
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While Magnus's job was not as obvious to many as it was to his own superiors, as the spymaster, that did not mean he just sat on his behind whenever important occasions arose. His was a position of much debate, for he had to be able to perform his duties and assist the crown, yet at the same time garner information from, at times, very questionable sources which he was not always at the liberty to expose. All of that results in Magnus oft times finding it hard to seek that balance between truth and deceit. Too often, has Magnus thought of perhaps seeking out a different form of employment, yet to do that would be to risk the livelihood he has worked so hard to ensure his family had. So until he achieved his dream, he couldn't stop at what he's worked so hard to achieve.
But at the same time, Magnus wanted to be sure that he wasn't sacrificing one aim to work for another. After all, what good would his dream be, if the one he worked for was left behind eating dust? If Leto had sought him out, the dark-haired male knew his sister was at least seeking some form of comfort, especially when she had started setting up a game of Pettiea. Magnus also knew however, that it had been awhile since he's properly sat down with his sister, and it was long overdue.
"You always get lost in new items." he replied in a gently teasing tone. Straightening up from where he had blew out the lamp at his table, on his way back, he lit up a lamp nearer to the table where his sister was setting up, grabbing one of the glasses of claret before settling down in the seat opposing to the one Leto had chosen, as she finished up the last few pieces. They had both taken after their father's darker looks, much to their mother's chagrin. But Nifakis had been proud of his children, in as much as they took after his looks, but more because they had taken after their mother's personality and zest for survival and life. It was why Magnus had wanted to ensure he wanted to allow them a legacy to leave behind.
A Noble House in their name.
The male nodded, not needing Leto to know how Pettiea worked. It had been a game he had grew up with, something Nifakis would pit brother and sister against when they were younger. Their father had said it would sharpen their mind, and that it definitely did. Magnus half suspected that it was from playing copious rounds of this game that had enabled his ability to work as Master Informer for their Kingdom today. However, he also disliked being the first, and when he noticed Leto had intentionally given him white, Magnus flashed an irritable scowl at her, but gave in.
Lifting a hand, Magnus started slow, using his rook first in a move that seemed more watchful then it was offensive. Completing his move, the male gestured with a hand at his sister, grinning at her through the dim light as he leaned back in his seat. "Have you been practicing, sister?"
While Magnus's job was not as obvious to many as it was to his own superiors, as the spymaster, that did not mean he just sat on his behind whenever important occasions arose. His was a position of much debate, for he had to be able to perform his duties and assist the crown, yet at the same time garner information from, at times, very questionable sources which he was not always at the liberty to expose. All of that results in Magnus oft times finding it hard to seek that balance between truth and deceit. Too often, has Magnus thought of perhaps seeking out a different form of employment, yet to do that would be to risk the livelihood he has worked so hard to ensure his family had. So until he achieved his dream, he couldn't stop at what he's worked so hard to achieve.
But at the same time, Magnus wanted to be sure that he wasn't sacrificing one aim to work for another. After all, what good would his dream be, if the one he worked for was left behind eating dust? If Leto had sought him out, the dark-haired male knew his sister was at least seeking some form of comfort, especially when she had started setting up a game of Pettiea. Magnus also knew however, that it had been awhile since he's properly sat down with his sister, and it was long overdue.
"You always get lost in new items." he replied in a gently teasing tone. Straightening up from where he had blew out the lamp at his table, on his way back, he lit up a lamp nearer to the table where his sister was setting up, grabbing one of the glasses of claret before settling down in the seat opposing to the one Leto had chosen, as she finished up the last few pieces. They had both taken after their father's darker looks, much to their mother's chagrin. But Nifakis had been proud of his children, in as much as they took after his looks, but more because they had taken after their mother's personality and zest for survival and life. It was why Magnus had wanted to ensure he wanted to allow them a legacy to leave behind.
A Noble House in their name.
The male nodded, not needing Leto to know how Pettiea worked. It had been a game he had grew up with, something Nifakis would pit brother and sister against when they were younger. Their father had said it would sharpen their mind, and that it definitely did. Magnus half suspected that it was from playing copious rounds of this game that had enabled his ability to work as Master Informer for their Kingdom today. However, he also disliked being the first, and when he noticed Leto had intentionally given him white, Magnus flashed an irritable scowl at her, but gave in.
Lifting a hand, Magnus started slow, using his rook first in a move that seemed more watchful then it was offensive. Completing his move, the male gestured with a hand at his sister, grinning at her through the dim light as he leaned back in his seat. "Have you been practicing, sister?"
Even the softest of smiles managed to deepen the ever-present line that ran from the corner of her nostril nearly down to her chin as he teased her for her newfound indulgences. If she were a bit more vain, it would bother her as it seemed to age her well past her mere 26 years, but fortunately, she had yet to reach such levels. Almost hiding the smirk by taking a sip from her claret glass, she watched as he picked out precisely which pawn to move first. They both knew that it did not matter which piece made the first step forward - there was no surprise in it. It always mattered which pieces were moved next.
It was much the same in entering into a conversation. The first cautious, shallow steps in the waters of small talk were to get a feel for the tug of the current and the temperature. Magnus, fortunately, had always had rather predictable shallows to wade in when it comes to starting conversation. As of late, she was quite familiar with those shallows, as that was all they managed to share for most days. While he had been away on his trip to Taengea, she felt that she began to miss even those simple talks of weather and food.
"Not so often," she replied, setting her glass aside to lean forward and idly examine her varied options. "Father and I will play occasionally when he is not taking one of his afternoon-long rests. Mother, as you know, has never been fond of the game." They had likely worn her out with it growing up, with all the bickering it caused. In her younger years, Leto was quite a bit of a sore loser. Even when she won a round, she always doubted whether or not it was of her own doing or from her brother's care.
Once making her move, she shifted her weight to lean on the velveteen arm of the chair, one hand fidgeting with the fabric of her gown. "Do the Princes play?" There was a brief pause, for his response and she nodded.
Another moment passed, watching his face as he scoured the board for his next twelve moves. Leto set her eyes to measure his expression, delicately adding, "What about Lady Iolanthe? Does she play? I can imagine playing the game would pass the time on such a long voyage."
And with that, Leto knew the conversation could either move past the breakers or wash her back ashore.
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Even the softest of smiles managed to deepen the ever-present line that ran from the corner of her nostril nearly down to her chin as he teased her for her newfound indulgences. If she were a bit more vain, it would bother her as it seemed to age her well past her mere 26 years, but fortunately, she had yet to reach such levels. Almost hiding the smirk by taking a sip from her claret glass, she watched as he picked out precisely which pawn to move first. They both knew that it did not matter which piece made the first step forward - there was no surprise in it. It always mattered which pieces were moved next.
It was much the same in entering into a conversation. The first cautious, shallow steps in the waters of small talk were to get a feel for the tug of the current and the temperature. Magnus, fortunately, had always had rather predictable shallows to wade in when it comes to starting conversation. As of late, she was quite familiar with those shallows, as that was all they managed to share for most days. While he had been away on his trip to Taengea, she felt that she began to miss even those simple talks of weather and food.
"Not so often," she replied, setting her glass aside to lean forward and idly examine her varied options. "Father and I will play occasionally when he is not taking one of his afternoon-long rests. Mother, as you know, has never been fond of the game." They had likely worn her out with it growing up, with all the bickering it caused. In her younger years, Leto was quite a bit of a sore loser. Even when she won a round, she always doubted whether or not it was of her own doing or from her brother's care.
Once making her move, she shifted her weight to lean on the velveteen arm of the chair, one hand fidgeting with the fabric of her gown. "Do the Princes play?" There was a brief pause, for his response and she nodded.
Another moment passed, watching his face as he scoured the board for his next twelve moves. Leto set her eyes to measure his expression, delicately adding, "What about Lady Iolanthe? Does she play? I can imagine playing the game would pass the time on such a long voyage."
And with that, Leto knew the conversation could either move past the breakers or wash her back ashore.
Even the softest of smiles managed to deepen the ever-present line that ran from the corner of her nostril nearly down to her chin as he teased her for her newfound indulgences. If she were a bit more vain, it would bother her as it seemed to age her well past her mere 26 years, but fortunately, she had yet to reach such levels. Almost hiding the smirk by taking a sip from her claret glass, she watched as he picked out precisely which pawn to move first. They both knew that it did not matter which piece made the first step forward - there was no surprise in it. It always mattered which pieces were moved next.
It was much the same in entering into a conversation. The first cautious, shallow steps in the waters of small talk were to get a feel for the tug of the current and the temperature. Magnus, fortunately, had always had rather predictable shallows to wade in when it comes to starting conversation. As of late, she was quite familiar with those shallows, as that was all they managed to share for most days. While he had been away on his trip to Taengea, she felt that she began to miss even those simple talks of weather and food.
"Not so often," she replied, setting her glass aside to lean forward and idly examine her varied options. "Father and I will play occasionally when he is not taking one of his afternoon-long rests. Mother, as you know, has never been fond of the game." They had likely worn her out with it growing up, with all the bickering it caused. In her younger years, Leto was quite a bit of a sore loser. Even when she won a round, she always doubted whether or not it was of her own doing or from her brother's care.
Once making her move, she shifted her weight to lean on the velveteen arm of the chair, one hand fidgeting with the fabric of her gown. "Do the Princes play?" There was a brief pause, for his response and she nodded.
Another moment passed, watching his face as he scoured the board for his next twelve moves. Leto set her eyes to measure his expression, delicately adding, "What about Lady Iolanthe? Does she play? I can imagine playing the game would pass the time on such a long voyage."
And with that, Leto knew the conversation could either move past the breakers or wash her back ashore.
Perhaps the one thing that Magnus regretted in his taking on more and more duties as the Master Informer, was that it came at the cost of his sacrificing time he spent with his family. In his younger days, he would remember returning home every evening after completeing his job as a litigator within Chaossis, and would immediately be met by the scent of their mother's famous lentil stew. Their little family would share a meal by the fireside, and Nifakis would regale his children with tales from the day, or whatever stories his customers would feed him.
Nowadays, the house was so large that any smell from the kitchen would have long dissipated before it reached the front doors or their rooms. Eudora was no longer as fit as she once was to cook up a large pot of lentil stew, and while Magnus found himself missing it, he would never ask his elder mother to cook any longer - not when the kitchen was much larger, which meant she would have to walk twice as far to get to where she needed. It was why he had hired an army of servants to care for them.
And his sister? His sister was growing up, and how much of that Magnus was missing, he wasn't entirely sure. Only tonight as they sat facing each other, her features subtly illuminated by the small lamp that shone on their boardgame, was Magnus reminded of how long it has been since he last simply sat down and spoke to Leto. Gone were the days he used to spend riding up and down a beach with her, hearing of her daily gambols with the boys and girls in the village, or how she would complain that their father did not trust her to do the work around the shop.
But as they played the game, they fell into familiar banter, the kind that they oftened shared when she would steal into her room, or he into hers when they were both much younger, and were in an age of rebellion, simply not sleeping despite their parents telling them to. Except now, they were rebelling against, or at least Magnus was, against his duties and deadline, if only for one game with his sister.
"He needs those aftrnoon-long rests, you know that." he scolded gently. He knew Eudora would never enjoy such games - she had always been more happy spending time crafting things for her little family. Be it with cooking or with mending, knitting, sewing... you name it, their mother would do it. Neither children had ever been want for much growing up, even if they did not earn much. Plus, Magnus had an inkling that all the bickering the game caused had liekly made their mother grow a distaste for it.
His eyes watched Leto's move carefully, and if one watched closely, one would likely see all the gears in Magnus's brain turning as he calculated his next move, almost off-handedly replying Leto as he observed the board, before making his own move next. "Not much. The Crown Prince, I've heard, played with a Taengean lady who visited, but otherwise they are more sword fighters then boardgame players."
Leaning back in his seat in a way much similar to Leto, it was undeniable to anyone watching that they were siblings in that split moment. He turned to look up at her just as she asked, and for a moment, Magnus's features froze.
Iolanthe? Why would his sister bring up the name of his lover? His gears grinded to a halt, and Magnus took a moment longer then usual, before he answered, in a manner he hoped brokered no curiosity. "We... did, quite a few times. It was quite boring on the ship after all, during a weeklong voyage with only the seagulls and sea creatures for company." he paused, and then continued, watching her as she made her own move. "Of course, I was busy and had many documents and reports to write up upon the conclusion of my Taengean trip, so I spent much of my time within my quarters." It wasn't entirely a lie, afterall.
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Perhaps the one thing that Magnus regretted in his taking on more and more duties as the Master Informer, was that it came at the cost of his sacrificing time he spent with his family. In his younger days, he would remember returning home every evening after completeing his job as a litigator within Chaossis, and would immediately be met by the scent of their mother's famous lentil stew. Their little family would share a meal by the fireside, and Nifakis would regale his children with tales from the day, or whatever stories his customers would feed him.
Nowadays, the house was so large that any smell from the kitchen would have long dissipated before it reached the front doors or their rooms. Eudora was no longer as fit as she once was to cook up a large pot of lentil stew, and while Magnus found himself missing it, he would never ask his elder mother to cook any longer - not when the kitchen was much larger, which meant she would have to walk twice as far to get to where she needed. It was why he had hired an army of servants to care for them.
And his sister? His sister was growing up, and how much of that Magnus was missing, he wasn't entirely sure. Only tonight as they sat facing each other, her features subtly illuminated by the small lamp that shone on their boardgame, was Magnus reminded of how long it has been since he last simply sat down and spoke to Leto. Gone were the days he used to spend riding up and down a beach with her, hearing of her daily gambols with the boys and girls in the village, or how she would complain that their father did not trust her to do the work around the shop.
But as they played the game, they fell into familiar banter, the kind that they oftened shared when she would steal into her room, or he into hers when they were both much younger, and were in an age of rebellion, simply not sleeping despite their parents telling them to. Except now, they were rebelling against, or at least Magnus was, against his duties and deadline, if only for one game with his sister.
"He needs those aftrnoon-long rests, you know that." he scolded gently. He knew Eudora would never enjoy such games - she had always been more happy spending time crafting things for her little family. Be it with cooking or with mending, knitting, sewing... you name it, their mother would do it. Neither children had ever been want for much growing up, even if they did not earn much. Plus, Magnus had an inkling that all the bickering the game caused had liekly made their mother grow a distaste for it.
His eyes watched Leto's move carefully, and if one watched closely, one would likely see all the gears in Magnus's brain turning as he calculated his next move, almost off-handedly replying Leto as he observed the board, before making his own move next. "Not much. The Crown Prince, I've heard, played with a Taengean lady who visited, but otherwise they are more sword fighters then boardgame players."
Leaning back in his seat in a way much similar to Leto, it was undeniable to anyone watching that they were siblings in that split moment. He turned to look up at her just as she asked, and for a moment, Magnus's features froze.
Iolanthe? Why would his sister bring up the name of his lover? His gears grinded to a halt, and Magnus took a moment longer then usual, before he answered, in a manner he hoped brokered no curiosity. "We... did, quite a few times. It was quite boring on the ship after all, during a weeklong voyage with only the seagulls and sea creatures for company." he paused, and then continued, watching her as she made her own move. "Of course, I was busy and had many documents and reports to write up upon the conclusion of my Taengean trip, so I spent much of my time within my quarters." It wasn't entirely a lie, afterall.
Perhaps the one thing that Magnus regretted in his taking on more and more duties as the Master Informer, was that it came at the cost of his sacrificing time he spent with his family. In his younger days, he would remember returning home every evening after completeing his job as a litigator within Chaossis, and would immediately be met by the scent of their mother's famous lentil stew. Their little family would share a meal by the fireside, and Nifakis would regale his children with tales from the day, or whatever stories his customers would feed him.
Nowadays, the house was so large that any smell from the kitchen would have long dissipated before it reached the front doors or their rooms. Eudora was no longer as fit as she once was to cook up a large pot of lentil stew, and while Magnus found himself missing it, he would never ask his elder mother to cook any longer - not when the kitchen was much larger, which meant she would have to walk twice as far to get to where she needed. It was why he had hired an army of servants to care for them.
And his sister? His sister was growing up, and how much of that Magnus was missing, he wasn't entirely sure. Only tonight as they sat facing each other, her features subtly illuminated by the small lamp that shone on their boardgame, was Magnus reminded of how long it has been since he last simply sat down and spoke to Leto. Gone were the days he used to spend riding up and down a beach with her, hearing of her daily gambols with the boys and girls in the village, or how she would complain that their father did not trust her to do the work around the shop.
But as they played the game, they fell into familiar banter, the kind that they oftened shared when she would steal into her room, or he into hers when they were both much younger, and were in an age of rebellion, simply not sleeping despite their parents telling them to. Except now, they were rebelling against, or at least Magnus was, against his duties and deadline, if only for one game with his sister.
"He needs those aftrnoon-long rests, you know that." he scolded gently. He knew Eudora would never enjoy such games - she had always been more happy spending time crafting things for her little family. Be it with cooking or with mending, knitting, sewing... you name it, their mother would do it. Neither children had ever been want for much growing up, even if they did not earn much. Plus, Magnus had an inkling that all the bickering the game caused had liekly made their mother grow a distaste for it.
His eyes watched Leto's move carefully, and if one watched closely, one would likely see all the gears in Magnus's brain turning as he calculated his next move, almost off-handedly replying Leto as he observed the board, before making his own move next. "Not much. The Crown Prince, I've heard, played with a Taengean lady who visited, but otherwise they are more sword fighters then boardgame players."
Leaning back in his seat in a way much similar to Leto, it was undeniable to anyone watching that they were siblings in that split moment. He turned to look up at her just as she asked, and for a moment, Magnus's features froze.
Iolanthe? Why would his sister bring up the name of his lover? His gears grinded to a halt, and Magnus took a moment longer then usual, before he answered, in a manner he hoped brokered no curiosity. "We... did, quite a few times. It was quite boring on the ship after all, during a weeklong voyage with only the seagulls and sea creatures for company." he paused, and then continued, watching her as she made her own move. "Of course, I was busy and had many documents and reports to write up upon the conclusion of my Taengean trip, so I spent much of my time within my quarters." It wasn't entirely a lie, afterall.
The house Magnus had provided for the family far exceeded anything that Leto ever thought she would need, or even want for a while. While they wanted for nothing as children in Chaossis, they knew that work produced their living, and when it went well, life was good. Now, in a large house with servants at their aid, it still managed to feel a bit strange after all these years. One day, she wondered if she would be used to it. Already, she had small luxuries that she enjoyed, but a purpose? That was still a mystery to her.
"Yes, I know he does," she added, matching the gentleness of his scold with a soft rebuttal of her own, "All I am saying is, I have been short of partners as of late. It is a losing battle trying to convince the servants to play, and even if they do, they quickly let themselves lose in a few moves so they can go back to work. Understandably so." Not one to get the hardworking attendants in the house in trouble, she kept the tone lighter on the end, almost teasing but entirely truthful. Of the servants in the house, none were of her age and most were there to assist their mother and father, with Leto alongside.
Leto gave a small, soft snort of a laugh, agreeing that the Colchian Princes hardly seemed like the kind to play board games when they take turns on the practice courts. Silas, from their conversations at her first court appearance, would be the most likely of them to play, she thought. Still, these thoughts where not her focus. At the mention of Iolanthe's name, there was a clear-cut moment where the cogs in her brother's head stopped and switched directions. To anyone else, he would still have clearly been thinking about the move, perhaps coming up with a potential set of moves to follow.
Leto knew her brother, though, and as great of a litigator as he may be, there were few things that could be hidden behind the bond of family. He tried to mask his lapse with his move and a casual air about his words. Leto would nod at them appropriately, examining the board. In the time he made his move and she planted the seed of conversation, she had already decided this move and was predicting her brother's moves to follow. If his mild reaction was anything to go by, his next moves would be quick and this game very well could be hers. Then again, there was no point getting ahead of herself.
"I can only imagine," she mused quietly, carefully leaning forward to feign studying the board as she spoke, "She seems a very sweet lady, and kind too, for inviting us to Arcanes. I would look forward to such a trip sometime." It wasn't so much a statement of interest as it was asking the dates of the trip Magnus had assuredly already planned. Leto placed her chip in her decided move and sat back in her chair, waiting for her brother to take the bait for the next moves, his mind clearly elsewhere, if not visibly uncomfortable with the direction of the conversation.
Why not take it a step further? If it did not give her any true information, it might at least win her this game.
"Do you like her?"
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The house Magnus had provided for the family far exceeded anything that Leto ever thought she would need, or even want for a while. While they wanted for nothing as children in Chaossis, they knew that work produced their living, and when it went well, life was good. Now, in a large house with servants at their aid, it still managed to feel a bit strange after all these years. One day, she wondered if she would be used to it. Already, she had small luxuries that she enjoyed, but a purpose? That was still a mystery to her.
"Yes, I know he does," she added, matching the gentleness of his scold with a soft rebuttal of her own, "All I am saying is, I have been short of partners as of late. It is a losing battle trying to convince the servants to play, and even if they do, they quickly let themselves lose in a few moves so they can go back to work. Understandably so." Not one to get the hardworking attendants in the house in trouble, she kept the tone lighter on the end, almost teasing but entirely truthful. Of the servants in the house, none were of her age and most were there to assist their mother and father, with Leto alongside.
Leto gave a small, soft snort of a laugh, agreeing that the Colchian Princes hardly seemed like the kind to play board games when they take turns on the practice courts. Silas, from their conversations at her first court appearance, would be the most likely of them to play, she thought. Still, these thoughts where not her focus. At the mention of Iolanthe's name, there was a clear-cut moment where the cogs in her brother's head stopped and switched directions. To anyone else, he would still have clearly been thinking about the move, perhaps coming up with a potential set of moves to follow.
Leto knew her brother, though, and as great of a litigator as he may be, there were few things that could be hidden behind the bond of family. He tried to mask his lapse with his move and a casual air about his words. Leto would nod at them appropriately, examining the board. In the time he made his move and she planted the seed of conversation, she had already decided this move and was predicting her brother's moves to follow. If his mild reaction was anything to go by, his next moves would be quick and this game very well could be hers. Then again, there was no point getting ahead of herself.
"I can only imagine," she mused quietly, carefully leaning forward to feign studying the board as she spoke, "She seems a very sweet lady, and kind too, for inviting us to Arcanes. I would look forward to such a trip sometime." It wasn't so much a statement of interest as it was asking the dates of the trip Magnus had assuredly already planned. Leto placed her chip in her decided move and sat back in her chair, waiting for her brother to take the bait for the next moves, his mind clearly elsewhere, if not visibly uncomfortable with the direction of the conversation.
Why not take it a step further? If it did not give her any true information, it might at least win her this game.
"Do you like her?"
The house Magnus had provided for the family far exceeded anything that Leto ever thought she would need, or even want for a while. While they wanted for nothing as children in Chaossis, they knew that work produced their living, and when it went well, life was good. Now, in a large house with servants at their aid, it still managed to feel a bit strange after all these years. One day, she wondered if she would be used to it. Already, she had small luxuries that she enjoyed, but a purpose? That was still a mystery to her.
"Yes, I know he does," she added, matching the gentleness of his scold with a soft rebuttal of her own, "All I am saying is, I have been short of partners as of late. It is a losing battle trying to convince the servants to play, and even if they do, they quickly let themselves lose in a few moves so they can go back to work. Understandably so." Not one to get the hardworking attendants in the house in trouble, she kept the tone lighter on the end, almost teasing but entirely truthful. Of the servants in the house, none were of her age and most were there to assist their mother and father, with Leto alongside.
Leto gave a small, soft snort of a laugh, agreeing that the Colchian Princes hardly seemed like the kind to play board games when they take turns on the practice courts. Silas, from their conversations at her first court appearance, would be the most likely of them to play, she thought. Still, these thoughts where not her focus. At the mention of Iolanthe's name, there was a clear-cut moment where the cogs in her brother's head stopped and switched directions. To anyone else, he would still have clearly been thinking about the move, perhaps coming up with a potential set of moves to follow.
Leto knew her brother, though, and as great of a litigator as he may be, there were few things that could be hidden behind the bond of family. He tried to mask his lapse with his move and a casual air about his words. Leto would nod at them appropriately, examining the board. In the time he made his move and she planted the seed of conversation, she had already decided this move and was predicting her brother's moves to follow. If his mild reaction was anything to go by, his next moves would be quick and this game very well could be hers. Then again, there was no point getting ahead of herself.
"I can only imagine," she mused quietly, carefully leaning forward to feign studying the board as she spoke, "She seems a very sweet lady, and kind too, for inviting us to Arcanes. I would look forward to such a trip sometime." It wasn't so much a statement of interest as it was asking the dates of the trip Magnus had assuredly already planned. Leto placed her chip in her decided move and sat back in her chair, waiting for her brother to take the bait for the next moves, his mind clearly elsewhere, if not visibly uncomfortable with the direction of the conversation.
Why not take it a step further? If it did not give her any true information, it might at least win her this game.
"Do you like her?"
He didn't fault Leto's complaints, for he knew what she meant. Growing up in Chaossis was a world away from the busy life they led now in Midas. Back in Chaossis, even if their parents and Magnus himself had been busy, Leto had no lack of friends in the neighborhood to play with. Chaossis had been a small, warm province that was friendly and looked after each other. For his sister, to now have to adjust to a large, busy capitol where crime was strife, he could only imagine it would be difficult for her.
Sighing when his sister explained, Magnus did not miss the teasing lilt, but was smart enough to know there was more to it when Leto let on.
It wasn't a problem he could solve though... for now, at least. In a way, he knew that at least Leto would have company if he married, most of all if he married Iolanthe. The woman would be a good influence on Leto, and he knew she was kind enough to assist his sister in all courtly manners as he busied himself with matters regarding the royal crown and his duties. In that, he was certain. Yet to marry Iolanthe would require a certain finesse and time that Magnus was still working on. Her brother's illness meant that she may, eventually get the barony in her family... yet the 'maybe' part halted Magnus. He had never wanted anything more then to ensure his father's name was continued for the next generation in a House Name, and Iolanthe gave him an easy path to that.
Yet was that the only reason why he wanted the woman?
Magnus watched his sister carefully after his reply. His smart mind was something he inherited from his parents... and Leto did come from the same set of humans, afterall. She was a smart one, and had she been born male, Magnus had no doubt she'd be able to do much better then he did, if only because he was biased for his only sibling. Nodding, his tight chest eased a little, hoping she did not catch on that they were both far beyond simply fancying each other. "I shall arrange that soon. I need to go up there first, to ensure her brother and sister-in-law will be readied for our arrival. You can follow shortly." he murmured, following her move with one of his own - but by now, it was obvious his mind was not in the game.
The man paused at her last question, hands halfway through returning to his lap. What could he tell her? That he enjoyed her company? That he wanted to marry her because of the barony she may bring him?
But like?
Clearing his throat, he waved at his sister to take her turn, before speaking. "Perhaps? Tis too early to tell. She... is a good influence on you, I should think, sister." Magnus flicked his gaze up to his sister's, a teasing light in its depths. "And she is a lovely woman to have by one's side. And you? Would she fit well in our family, you think?"
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He didn't fault Leto's complaints, for he knew what she meant. Growing up in Chaossis was a world away from the busy life they led now in Midas. Back in Chaossis, even if their parents and Magnus himself had been busy, Leto had no lack of friends in the neighborhood to play with. Chaossis had been a small, warm province that was friendly and looked after each other. For his sister, to now have to adjust to a large, busy capitol where crime was strife, he could only imagine it would be difficult for her.
Sighing when his sister explained, Magnus did not miss the teasing lilt, but was smart enough to know there was more to it when Leto let on.
It wasn't a problem he could solve though... for now, at least. In a way, he knew that at least Leto would have company if he married, most of all if he married Iolanthe. The woman would be a good influence on Leto, and he knew she was kind enough to assist his sister in all courtly manners as he busied himself with matters regarding the royal crown and his duties. In that, he was certain. Yet to marry Iolanthe would require a certain finesse and time that Magnus was still working on. Her brother's illness meant that she may, eventually get the barony in her family... yet the 'maybe' part halted Magnus. He had never wanted anything more then to ensure his father's name was continued for the next generation in a House Name, and Iolanthe gave him an easy path to that.
Yet was that the only reason why he wanted the woman?
Magnus watched his sister carefully after his reply. His smart mind was something he inherited from his parents... and Leto did come from the same set of humans, afterall. She was a smart one, and had she been born male, Magnus had no doubt she'd be able to do much better then he did, if only because he was biased for his only sibling. Nodding, his tight chest eased a little, hoping she did not catch on that they were both far beyond simply fancying each other. "I shall arrange that soon. I need to go up there first, to ensure her brother and sister-in-law will be readied for our arrival. You can follow shortly." he murmured, following her move with one of his own - but by now, it was obvious his mind was not in the game.
The man paused at her last question, hands halfway through returning to his lap. What could he tell her? That he enjoyed her company? That he wanted to marry her because of the barony she may bring him?
But like?
Clearing his throat, he waved at his sister to take her turn, before speaking. "Perhaps? Tis too early to tell. She... is a good influence on you, I should think, sister." Magnus flicked his gaze up to his sister's, a teasing light in its depths. "And she is a lovely woman to have by one's side. And you? Would she fit well in our family, you think?"
He didn't fault Leto's complaints, for he knew what she meant. Growing up in Chaossis was a world away from the busy life they led now in Midas. Back in Chaossis, even if their parents and Magnus himself had been busy, Leto had no lack of friends in the neighborhood to play with. Chaossis had been a small, warm province that was friendly and looked after each other. For his sister, to now have to adjust to a large, busy capitol where crime was strife, he could only imagine it would be difficult for her.
Sighing when his sister explained, Magnus did not miss the teasing lilt, but was smart enough to know there was more to it when Leto let on.
It wasn't a problem he could solve though... for now, at least. In a way, he knew that at least Leto would have company if he married, most of all if he married Iolanthe. The woman would be a good influence on Leto, and he knew she was kind enough to assist his sister in all courtly manners as he busied himself with matters regarding the royal crown and his duties. In that, he was certain. Yet to marry Iolanthe would require a certain finesse and time that Magnus was still working on. Her brother's illness meant that she may, eventually get the barony in her family... yet the 'maybe' part halted Magnus. He had never wanted anything more then to ensure his father's name was continued for the next generation in a House Name, and Iolanthe gave him an easy path to that.
Yet was that the only reason why he wanted the woman?
Magnus watched his sister carefully after his reply. His smart mind was something he inherited from his parents... and Leto did come from the same set of humans, afterall. She was a smart one, and had she been born male, Magnus had no doubt she'd be able to do much better then he did, if only because he was biased for his only sibling. Nodding, his tight chest eased a little, hoping she did not catch on that they were both far beyond simply fancying each other. "I shall arrange that soon. I need to go up there first, to ensure her brother and sister-in-law will be readied for our arrival. You can follow shortly." he murmured, following her move with one of his own - but by now, it was obvious his mind was not in the game.
The man paused at her last question, hands halfway through returning to his lap. What could he tell her? That he enjoyed her company? That he wanted to marry her because of the barony she may bring him?
But like?
Clearing his throat, he waved at his sister to take her turn, before speaking. "Perhaps? Tis too early to tell. She... is a good influence on you, I should think, sister." Magnus flicked his gaze up to his sister's, a teasing light in its depths. "And she is a lovely woman to have by one's side. And you? Would she fit well in our family, you think?"
Leto could tell that in this moment, if not also the game in front of them, she had won. Perhaps it was her brother's borderline exhaustion that released into a moment of relaxation that allowed for her to break through is usual tight barriers, but she would take her victory without flaunting and harbor it safe inside her ribcage. She loved her brother so dearly, and though he had mastery of his life beyond any she could imagine obtaining for herself. Perhaps if she were a man, it could be so, but she brushed those thoughts away, quietly savoring the turn in the conversation.
"Good," she said, simply smiling contently. She would hold this non-promise over his head until it was done. Nevermind that, she thought, noting the swiftness of his move following hers. It was a predictable move, one that - if followed by many more along those lines - would bring the game to a quick end, with her reigning victorious. That was not her intention. Ending the game meant her time with her brother would draw to a close all too quickly. Aware that she could not steal his attention for the entire night, she was not content to have him throw away a game simply to move along. That would not abide.
Upon asking her question, her eyes locked with his as he paused then sighed. She had him.
Listening to his response with a grin that was a little more smug than it should have been, she looped her forearm along the nape of her neck and in a familiar, fluid motion managed to swoop most of her hair from along her back over her shoulder as she leaned forward, nodding as he spoke while making a decent show of looking for her next move. As he shifted the conversation from his affections toward Lady Iolanthe to the noblewoman's influence upon Leto, one dark brow shot up the other one laying motionless and low over her eye. Really? Deflection? Oh, Magnus would have to try harder than that to get her off his scent.
"Only perhaps?" she teased, a touch more edge to it than the lofty teasing she had practiced for the nobles. This was a jab akin to her prodding him with one of the wooden play swords from their childhood - it was more than just a little poke. That one little poke was likely to prick a hole in the facade she had been manicuring to be presented among the nobility. Now, it was just them. He could use it, she thought.
"Ahhh, I see. It makes perfect sense now. I did not know it was in style in Midas to woo and wed noblewomen simply to provide companions to family members, but that does make it rather convenient for all." Swiftly making her move, one that she knew would puzzle him by allowing him access to a corner of the board that would normally be easily guarded, she stood and crossed to the crystal decanter of claret, still talking as she moved, "Of course, she would fit very well into our family....and our family very well into hers...."
There was a good chance she was crossing the line with her comments about her brother's theoretical rise to nobility should he marry the widow, but likely -and hopefully, if she read the room right - it was not enough to pin the conversation and end the night. To prevent his visual and rising verbal scolding, she softened her tone a moment, bringing the decanter to the rim of his chalice. He had hardly touched his, but out of courtesy, she dribbled a small amount in to top off the dark, shimmering liquid.
"Magnus," she started, her voice still filled with amusement but laced tightly with sincerity as well, "From what little I have seen of her, I like her...and I believe you do as well, in some capacity. Though, the question remains: as much of a good influence she may be on me, is she a good influence on you?"
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Leto could tell that in this moment, if not also the game in front of them, she had won. Perhaps it was her brother's borderline exhaustion that released into a moment of relaxation that allowed for her to break through is usual tight barriers, but she would take her victory without flaunting and harbor it safe inside her ribcage. She loved her brother so dearly, and though he had mastery of his life beyond any she could imagine obtaining for herself. Perhaps if she were a man, it could be so, but she brushed those thoughts away, quietly savoring the turn in the conversation.
"Good," she said, simply smiling contently. She would hold this non-promise over his head until it was done. Nevermind that, she thought, noting the swiftness of his move following hers. It was a predictable move, one that - if followed by many more along those lines - would bring the game to a quick end, with her reigning victorious. That was not her intention. Ending the game meant her time with her brother would draw to a close all too quickly. Aware that she could not steal his attention for the entire night, she was not content to have him throw away a game simply to move along. That would not abide.
Upon asking her question, her eyes locked with his as he paused then sighed. She had him.
Listening to his response with a grin that was a little more smug than it should have been, she looped her forearm along the nape of her neck and in a familiar, fluid motion managed to swoop most of her hair from along her back over her shoulder as she leaned forward, nodding as he spoke while making a decent show of looking for her next move. As he shifted the conversation from his affections toward Lady Iolanthe to the noblewoman's influence upon Leto, one dark brow shot up the other one laying motionless and low over her eye. Really? Deflection? Oh, Magnus would have to try harder than that to get her off his scent.
"Only perhaps?" she teased, a touch more edge to it than the lofty teasing she had practiced for the nobles. This was a jab akin to her prodding him with one of the wooden play swords from their childhood - it was more than just a little poke. That one little poke was likely to prick a hole in the facade she had been manicuring to be presented among the nobility. Now, it was just them. He could use it, she thought.
"Ahhh, I see. It makes perfect sense now. I did not know it was in style in Midas to woo and wed noblewomen simply to provide companions to family members, but that does make it rather convenient for all." Swiftly making her move, one that she knew would puzzle him by allowing him access to a corner of the board that would normally be easily guarded, she stood and crossed to the crystal decanter of claret, still talking as she moved, "Of course, she would fit very well into our family....and our family very well into hers...."
There was a good chance she was crossing the line with her comments about her brother's theoretical rise to nobility should he marry the widow, but likely -and hopefully, if she read the room right - it was not enough to pin the conversation and end the night. To prevent his visual and rising verbal scolding, she softened her tone a moment, bringing the decanter to the rim of his chalice. He had hardly touched his, but out of courtesy, she dribbled a small amount in to top off the dark, shimmering liquid.
"Magnus," she started, her voice still filled with amusement but laced tightly with sincerity as well, "From what little I have seen of her, I like her...and I believe you do as well, in some capacity. Though, the question remains: as much of a good influence she may be on me, is she a good influence on you?"
Leto could tell that in this moment, if not also the game in front of them, she had won. Perhaps it was her brother's borderline exhaustion that released into a moment of relaxation that allowed for her to break through is usual tight barriers, but she would take her victory without flaunting and harbor it safe inside her ribcage. She loved her brother so dearly, and though he had mastery of his life beyond any she could imagine obtaining for herself. Perhaps if she were a man, it could be so, but she brushed those thoughts away, quietly savoring the turn in the conversation.
"Good," she said, simply smiling contently. She would hold this non-promise over his head until it was done. Nevermind that, she thought, noting the swiftness of his move following hers. It was a predictable move, one that - if followed by many more along those lines - would bring the game to a quick end, with her reigning victorious. That was not her intention. Ending the game meant her time with her brother would draw to a close all too quickly. Aware that she could not steal his attention for the entire night, she was not content to have him throw away a game simply to move along. That would not abide.
Upon asking her question, her eyes locked with his as he paused then sighed. She had him.
Listening to his response with a grin that was a little more smug than it should have been, she looped her forearm along the nape of her neck and in a familiar, fluid motion managed to swoop most of her hair from along her back over her shoulder as she leaned forward, nodding as he spoke while making a decent show of looking for her next move. As he shifted the conversation from his affections toward Lady Iolanthe to the noblewoman's influence upon Leto, one dark brow shot up the other one laying motionless and low over her eye. Really? Deflection? Oh, Magnus would have to try harder than that to get her off his scent.
"Only perhaps?" she teased, a touch more edge to it than the lofty teasing she had practiced for the nobles. This was a jab akin to her prodding him with one of the wooden play swords from their childhood - it was more than just a little poke. That one little poke was likely to prick a hole in the facade she had been manicuring to be presented among the nobility. Now, it was just them. He could use it, she thought.
"Ahhh, I see. It makes perfect sense now. I did not know it was in style in Midas to woo and wed noblewomen simply to provide companions to family members, but that does make it rather convenient for all." Swiftly making her move, one that she knew would puzzle him by allowing him access to a corner of the board that would normally be easily guarded, she stood and crossed to the crystal decanter of claret, still talking as she moved, "Of course, she would fit very well into our family....and our family very well into hers...."
There was a good chance she was crossing the line with her comments about her brother's theoretical rise to nobility should he marry the widow, but likely -and hopefully, if she read the room right - it was not enough to pin the conversation and end the night. To prevent his visual and rising verbal scolding, she softened her tone a moment, bringing the decanter to the rim of his chalice. He had hardly touched his, but out of courtesy, she dribbled a small amount in to top off the dark, shimmering liquid.
"Magnus," she started, her voice still filled with amusement but laced tightly with sincerity as well, "From what little I have seen of her, I like her...and I believe you do as well, in some capacity. Though, the question remains: as much of a good influence she may be on me, is she a good influence on you?"
It wasn't often that Leto bested him in the game, but neither was it impossible. Impervious as he would seem to normal human nature, Magnus was no demigod nor was he supernatural, and despite the outlook he presented to everyone else, Magnus was very much human. So occasionally when weariness and work hit him at the same time, his concentration would falter, in a way that Leto could take advantage of.
Of course, his sister's capability to sharply latch on to a facet in his personality or intonation meant it was a rare occasiona that Magnus could keep her from finding out matters. In their younger days, it meant Magnus shared much with his dark-haired sibling, unless it was matters of his job that remained confidential. In recent days however, with the reducing time he spent in her company, it meant that occasionally, Magnus would have empty lots of time he wouldn't know what Leto was up to. He could only hope their parents was on hand for her growth, for at this point and juncture in his life, Magnus was trying to juggle too many balls in one hand.
Rolling his eyes when she teased, he leaned forward to make his move again, capturing a few of her pieces, but not a notable effort to change the game. Her sarcastic comment did not pass without a pointed look from Magnus as he leaned back in his seat again, steepling his hands on his laps as his eyes remainded unwaveringly on his sister's visage. "It isn't just I that would be wedded to her - I would not foist someone you were not comfortable with upon you, nor on our parents. You know that." It really shouldn't be surprise, for all Magnus has done ever since he had turned of age, was done for the sake of his family. In fact, the dark haired former litigant had done little for himself - the very fact that he was actually considering marriage, was surprising in and of itself, for their mother had given up on Magnus ever marrying and providing her with grandchildren.
Picking up the chalice as Leto topped it off, the male took a gulp, the warm liquid spreading down his throat, before he replied his sister. "It is good, well enough that you like her." In his words, his tone held a finality to it, firm but gentle. For him, this was not a matter for discussion. It was enough for him to know that Leto was not opposed to a possible joining of him to Lady Iolanthe, and she was not opposed to Lady Iolanthe as a person - he trusted his sister's judgement of people, but further then that, it was a decision for him to make. For the sake of his sister's future, and of his father's name.
He would ensure Nifakis of Chaossis would be etched on more then just a tombstone in a graveyard, and a memory in their minds.
Reaching out, he picked up his kingpiece, and lay it on its side on the board, throwing the game and allowing her victory. Draining his chalice, he stood up, and went round the table to press a soft kiss on the top of her head, the way he used to when they were children and he would tuck her in bed with a night time story, before he resumed his work. "What influence people have on me is my own decision to make, mikrí adelfí. So long as my choice of a wife does not hinder and hamper the quality of life for you and for our parents, that is enough for me. It is my job to ensure your future."
His words were gentle, but final as he took a step back. "I have work tomorrow, and I depart the day after to visit Lady Iolanthe. I'll speak to Papa and Mother tomorrow, and arrange for your carriage to ensure your arrival in safety. Ask Mama to help you pack if you need." With tired eyes, he bidded his sister a good night, and then turned to exit the room. Come tomorrow morning, Magnus knew he would have to work extra hard to make up for the work he had failed to complete tonight, but on the heels of his conversation with his sister, the Master Informer knew concentration was shot for the night.
Because in all his life, he's never had to think of himself first.
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It wasn't often that Leto bested him in the game, but neither was it impossible. Impervious as he would seem to normal human nature, Magnus was no demigod nor was he supernatural, and despite the outlook he presented to everyone else, Magnus was very much human. So occasionally when weariness and work hit him at the same time, his concentration would falter, in a way that Leto could take advantage of.
Of course, his sister's capability to sharply latch on to a facet in his personality or intonation meant it was a rare occasiona that Magnus could keep her from finding out matters. In their younger days, it meant Magnus shared much with his dark-haired sibling, unless it was matters of his job that remained confidential. In recent days however, with the reducing time he spent in her company, it meant that occasionally, Magnus would have empty lots of time he wouldn't know what Leto was up to. He could only hope their parents was on hand for her growth, for at this point and juncture in his life, Magnus was trying to juggle too many balls in one hand.
Rolling his eyes when she teased, he leaned forward to make his move again, capturing a few of her pieces, but not a notable effort to change the game. Her sarcastic comment did not pass without a pointed look from Magnus as he leaned back in his seat again, steepling his hands on his laps as his eyes remainded unwaveringly on his sister's visage. "It isn't just I that would be wedded to her - I would not foist someone you were not comfortable with upon you, nor on our parents. You know that." It really shouldn't be surprise, for all Magnus has done ever since he had turned of age, was done for the sake of his family. In fact, the dark haired former litigant had done little for himself - the very fact that he was actually considering marriage, was surprising in and of itself, for their mother had given up on Magnus ever marrying and providing her with grandchildren.
Picking up the chalice as Leto topped it off, the male took a gulp, the warm liquid spreading down his throat, before he replied his sister. "It is good, well enough that you like her." In his words, his tone held a finality to it, firm but gentle. For him, this was not a matter for discussion. It was enough for him to know that Leto was not opposed to a possible joining of him to Lady Iolanthe, and she was not opposed to Lady Iolanthe as a person - he trusted his sister's judgement of people, but further then that, it was a decision for him to make. For the sake of his sister's future, and of his father's name.
He would ensure Nifakis of Chaossis would be etched on more then just a tombstone in a graveyard, and a memory in their minds.
Reaching out, he picked up his kingpiece, and lay it on its side on the board, throwing the game and allowing her victory. Draining his chalice, he stood up, and went round the table to press a soft kiss on the top of her head, the way he used to when they were children and he would tuck her in bed with a night time story, before he resumed his work. "What influence people have on me is my own decision to make, mikrí adelfí. So long as my choice of a wife does not hinder and hamper the quality of life for you and for our parents, that is enough for me. It is my job to ensure your future."
His words were gentle, but final as he took a step back. "I have work tomorrow, and I depart the day after to visit Lady Iolanthe. I'll speak to Papa and Mother tomorrow, and arrange for your carriage to ensure your arrival in safety. Ask Mama to help you pack if you need." With tired eyes, he bidded his sister a good night, and then turned to exit the room. Come tomorrow morning, Magnus knew he would have to work extra hard to make up for the work he had failed to complete tonight, but on the heels of his conversation with his sister, the Master Informer knew concentration was shot for the night.
Because in all his life, he's never had to think of himself first.
It wasn't often that Leto bested him in the game, but neither was it impossible. Impervious as he would seem to normal human nature, Magnus was no demigod nor was he supernatural, and despite the outlook he presented to everyone else, Magnus was very much human. So occasionally when weariness and work hit him at the same time, his concentration would falter, in a way that Leto could take advantage of.
Of course, his sister's capability to sharply latch on to a facet in his personality or intonation meant it was a rare occasiona that Magnus could keep her from finding out matters. In their younger days, it meant Magnus shared much with his dark-haired sibling, unless it was matters of his job that remained confidential. In recent days however, with the reducing time he spent in her company, it meant that occasionally, Magnus would have empty lots of time he wouldn't know what Leto was up to. He could only hope their parents was on hand for her growth, for at this point and juncture in his life, Magnus was trying to juggle too many balls in one hand.
Rolling his eyes when she teased, he leaned forward to make his move again, capturing a few of her pieces, but not a notable effort to change the game. Her sarcastic comment did not pass without a pointed look from Magnus as he leaned back in his seat again, steepling his hands on his laps as his eyes remainded unwaveringly on his sister's visage. "It isn't just I that would be wedded to her - I would not foist someone you were not comfortable with upon you, nor on our parents. You know that." It really shouldn't be surprise, for all Magnus has done ever since he had turned of age, was done for the sake of his family. In fact, the dark haired former litigant had done little for himself - the very fact that he was actually considering marriage, was surprising in and of itself, for their mother had given up on Magnus ever marrying and providing her with grandchildren.
Picking up the chalice as Leto topped it off, the male took a gulp, the warm liquid spreading down his throat, before he replied his sister. "It is good, well enough that you like her." In his words, his tone held a finality to it, firm but gentle. For him, this was not a matter for discussion. It was enough for him to know that Leto was not opposed to a possible joining of him to Lady Iolanthe, and she was not opposed to Lady Iolanthe as a person - he trusted his sister's judgement of people, but further then that, it was a decision for him to make. For the sake of his sister's future, and of his father's name.
He would ensure Nifakis of Chaossis would be etched on more then just a tombstone in a graveyard, and a memory in their minds.
Reaching out, he picked up his kingpiece, and lay it on its side on the board, throwing the game and allowing her victory. Draining his chalice, he stood up, and went round the table to press a soft kiss on the top of her head, the way he used to when they were children and he would tuck her in bed with a night time story, before he resumed his work. "What influence people have on me is my own decision to make, mikrí adelfí. So long as my choice of a wife does not hinder and hamper the quality of life for you and for our parents, that is enough for me. It is my job to ensure your future."
His words were gentle, but final as he took a step back. "I have work tomorrow, and I depart the day after to visit Lady Iolanthe. I'll speak to Papa and Mother tomorrow, and arrange for your carriage to ensure your arrival in safety. Ask Mama to help you pack if you need." With tired eyes, he bidded his sister a good night, and then turned to exit the room. Come tomorrow morning, Magnus knew he would have to work extra hard to make up for the work he had failed to complete tonight, but on the heels of his conversation with his sister, the Master Informer knew concentration was shot for the night.
Because in all his life, he's never had to think of himself first.
Leto could not help but narrow her eyes as he spoke, once again turning the concept of binding his life to that of another person, a kind and gentle person (albeit noble) at that, away from his part in it and more to the effects it would have on the family. It was odd though fully understandable how her brother often held such a fixation on their family's station in life while somehow managing to barely hang on as a part of it. This position of his was taxing, no doubt, with the kingdom's security balancing on a blade that he and the royal family held in their hands. It was not lost on her as it might be with other women of Colchis.
Still, the shift in his tone as he spoke of his future motions as simply impacting the family's future. In the time he had spoken, Leto had moved to place the crystal decanter back upon the shelf and Magnus had laid down the kingpiece on the board - a move that shocked and in many ways appalled Leto at first thought.
His kiss on her forehead was genuine, that she knew, as was her arm that wrapped around his waist to return the affection in a hug. Leto could not stop the disappointed sigh that escaped, but chose not to refute or beg for him to return to the game. They were too old for such things, and this had already carved precious time from his work. It would likely mean him falling asleep too late and rising too early, likely before she did.
"Goodnight, Magnus," she said, shielding her voice from showing disappointment, and offering a smile of her own as she watched him walk through the doorway and down the corridor to his rooms. An even heavier sigh escaped her in a long, slow puff. In many ways, she had learned what she wanted and sated her curiosity for the time being, but at what cost? Now, by having a question answered, more questions emerged. Hopefully, her venture to Arcanaes in the upcoming days would shed some light.
Iolanthe. Perhaps she was able to pierce through her brother's shell in the way only amorous affection could. Or at least, that is what the tales she read advised. If not, then...well, there were more issues at hand than limited hours with her brother and talk of marriage.
In one fell swoop, she downed the last of her claret and set the crystal down on the marble tabletop with a definitive clink. Two thin, pale fingers pinched the kingpiece and she held it between them nearly at eye level. It was a curious piece, deemed the most powerful by many, though having the least mobility. The fate of the king decided the game. However, there were many more pieces on the board that did the heavy work, much like Magnus.
Closing her eyes a moment and shaking her head, she prevented herself from waxing a further thought on it, knowing that she would already have a hard enough time sleeping tonight. Placing the pieces back into the storage box, she stepped to the hallway and summoned a servant to take care of the fire in the hearth as she made her way to replace the box in the study below. ,
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Leto could not help but narrow her eyes as he spoke, once again turning the concept of binding his life to that of another person, a kind and gentle person (albeit noble) at that, away from his part in it and more to the effects it would have on the family. It was odd though fully understandable how her brother often held such a fixation on their family's station in life while somehow managing to barely hang on as a part of it. This position of his was taxing, no doubt, with the kingdom's security balancing on a blade that he and the royal family held in their hands. It was not lost on her as it might be with other women of Colchis.
Still, the shift in his tone as he spoke of his future motions as simply impacting the family's future. In the time he had spoken, Leto had moved to place the crystal decanter back upon the shelf and Magnus had laid down the kingpiece on the board - a move that shocked and in many ways appalled Leto at first thought.
His kiss on her forehead was genuine, that she knew, as was her arm that wrapped around his waist to return the affection in a hug. Leto could not stop the disappointed sigh that escaped, but chose not to refute or beg for him to return to the game. They were too old for such things, and this had already carved precious time from his work. It would likely mean him falling asleep too late and rising too early, likely before she did.
"Goodnight, Magnus," she said, shielding her voice from showing disappointment, and offering a smile of her own as she watched him walk through the doorway and down the corridor to his rooms. An even heavier sigh escaped her in a long, slow puff. In many ways, she had learned what she wanted and sated her curiosity for the time being, but at what cost? Now, by having a question answered, more questions emerged. Hopefully, her venture to Arcanaes in the upcoming days would shed some light.
Iolanthe. Perhaps she was able to pierce through her brother's shell in the way only amorous affection could. Or at least, that is what the tales she read advised. If not, then...well, there were more issues at hand than limited hours with her brother and talk of marriage.
In one fell swoop, she downed the last of her claret and set the crystal down on the marble tabletop with a definitive clink. Two thin, pale fingers pinched the kingpiece and she held it between them nearly at eye level. It was a curious piece, deemed the most powerful by many, though having the least mobility. The fate of the king decided the game. However, there were many more pieces on the board that did the heavy work, much like Magnus.
Closing her eyes a moment and shaking her head, she prevented herself from waxing a further thought on it, knowing that she would already have a hard enough time sleeping tonight. Placing the pieces back into the storage box, she stepped to the hallway and summoned a servant to take care of the fire in the hearth as she made her way to replace the box in the study below. ,
Leto could not help but narrow her eyes as he spoke, once again turning the concept of binding his life to that of another person, a kind and gentle person (albeit noble) at that, away from his part in it and more to the effects it would have on the family. It was odd though fully understandable how her brother often held such a fixation on their family's station in life while somehow managing to barely hang on as a part of it. This position of his was taxing, no doubt, with the kingdom's security balancing on a blade that he and the royal family held in their hands. It was not lost on her as it might be with other women of Colchis.
Still, the shift in his tone as he spoke of his future motions as simply impacting the family's future. In the time he had spoken, Leto had moved to place the crystal decanter back upon the shelf and Magnus had laid down the kingpiece on the board - a move that shocked and in many ways appalled Leto at first thought.
His kiss on her forehead was genuine, that she knew, as was her arm that wrapped around his waist to return the affection in a hug. Leto could not stop the disappointed sigh that escaped, but chose not to refute or beg for him to return to the game. They were too old for such things, and this had already carved precious time from his work. It would likely mean him falling asleep too late and rising too early, likely before she did.
"Goodnight, Magnus," she said, shielding her voice from showing disappointment, and offering a smile of her own as she watched him walk through the doorway and down the corridor to his rooms. An even heavier sigh escaped her in a long, slow puff. In many ways, she had learned what she wanted and sated her curiosity for the time being, but at what cost? Now, by having a question answered, more questions emerged. Hopefully, her venture to Arcanaes in the upcoming days would shed some light.
Iolanthe. Perhaps she was able to pierce through her brother's shell in the way only amorous affection could. Or at least, that is what the tales she read advised. If not, then...well, there were more issues at hand than limited hours with her brother and talk of marriage.
In one fell swoop, she downed the last of her claret and set the crystal down on the marble tabletop with a definitive clink. Two thin, pale fingers pinched the kingpiece and she held it between them nearly at eye level. It was a curious piece, deemed the most powerful by many, though having the least mobility. The fate of the king decided the game. However, there were many more pieces on the board that did the heavy work, much like Magnus.
Closing her eyes a moment and shaking her head, she prevented herself from waxing a further thought on it, knowing that she would already have a hard enough time sleeping tonight. Placing the pieces back into the storage box, she stepped to the hallway and summoned a servant to take care of the fire in the hearth as she made her way to replace the box in the study below. ,