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It two days before the prearranged feast that would be some form of celebration for Vangelis' safe return to the shores of Colchis. Whilst not a coronation, it would also be a moment of joyous communion to herald the passing of the crown from father to son. But, to Vangelis, the whole thing was hollow. Not only did it feel strange to accept the death of his father when he had neither seen the fatal moment, nor the body in question, it also felt strange to accept a crown when there was no guarantee of it staying within his own immediate bloodline.
He had no wife. No heirs. The crown would pass to his brother and then to Dion if the situation did not change which meant that the line of inheritance had not altered with his father's death. Even possessing the crown only made Vangelis feel like a place holder for the line that had actual heirs to continue it.
Then there was his changing and confusing relationship with Selene whom he had spent little time with since their docked in Colchis, but had felt the need to confide in - even silently - in the stables the morning after his father's death had been revealed. Then there was their conversation on the ship. And the fact that she was the only one to know that he had abdicated his throne for a temporary period of time... He was fully aware that he held certain feelings for Selene that did not equate to that of solely friendship. Yet, barring one manic incident that she had determined was a mistake back in the Dimitrou lands, she had never given the indication that her affections were any more than that of a companion. At least, not that he had seen...
'When he is ready, he will choose you. It is not because he does not wish to, but because he does not feel worthy. Those around him can see it... But it will take him longer. When he accepts it in himself, he will saddle you and let you lead him to conquer the world.'
The words rang in his head - a forgotten conversation that hadn't even been for him to hear - but one that Selene had held with his horse. His lips curled at the corner as if he wished to smile at the notion of Selene having such an in-depth conversation with a stallion. The words, though, held an effect on him and they swirled in his mind as he headed from his study to the private quarters of the family, looking for his brother.
She had been talking of the horse and his duties towards he - the new King - but in his current mindset Vangelis thought upon them differently. Thought upon them as if they were referring to a wife rather than an animal. 'When he is ready, he will choose...', 'Those around him can see it... When he accepts it in himself... let you lead him to conquer the world...'
Looking to such advice - to the fact that others could see what he was supposedly blind to, Vangelis found himself at his brother and sister-in-law's bed chamber, his curled fist raised and then rapping on the door. Despite the fact that he had no need for propriety and could walk in at his own volition given he was now monarch, Vangelis waited for his friend, brother and confidant, simply calling through the door.
"Zanon." He called through the wood. "Are you free for a ride? I have something I must discuss with you."
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Sept 25, 2019 11:10:32 GMT
Posted In Fraternity on Sept 25, 2019 11:10:32 GMT
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It two days before the prearranged feast that would be some form of celebration for Vangelis' safe return to the shores of Colchis. Whilst not a coronation, it would also be a moment of joyous communion to herald the passing of the crown from father to son. But, to Vangelis, the whole thing was hollow. Not only did it feel strange to accept the death of his father when he had neither seen the fatal moment, nor the body in question, it also felt strange to accept a crown when there was no guarantee of it staying within his own immediate bloodline.
He had no wife. No heirs. The crown would pass to his brother and then to Dion if the situation did not change which meant that the line of inheritance had not altered with his father's death. Even possessing the crown only made Vangelis feel like a place holder for the line that had actual heirs to continue it.
Then there was his changing and confusing relationship with Selene whom he had spent little time with since their docked in Colchis, but had felt the need to confide in - even silently - in the stables the morning after his father's death had been revealed. Then there was their conversation on the ship. And the fact that she was the only one to know that he had abdicated his throne for a temporary period of time... He was fully aware that he held certain feelings for Selene that did not equate to that of solely friendship. Yet, barring one manic incident that she had determined was a mistake back in the Dimitrou lands, she had never given the indication that her affections were any more than that of a companion. At least, not that he had seen...
'When he is ready, he will choose you. It is not because he does not wish to, but because he does not feel worthy. Those around him can see it... But it will take him longer. When he accepts it in himself, he will saddle you and let you lead him to conquer the world.'
The words rang in his head - a forgotten conversation that hadn't even been for him to hear - but one that Selene had held with his horse. His lips curled at the corner as if he wished to smile at the notion of Selene having such an in-depth conversation with a stallion. The words, though, held an effect on him and they swirled in his mind as he headed from his study to the private quarters of the family, looking for his brother.
She had been talking of the horse and his duties towards he - the new King - but in his current mindset Vangelis thought upon them differently. Thought upon them as if they were referring to a wife rather than an animal. 'When he is ready, he will choose...', 'Those around him can see it... When he accepts it in himself... let you lead him to conquer the world...'
Looking to such advice - to the fact that others could see what he was supposedly blind to, Vangelis found himself at his brother and sister-in-law's bed chamber, his curled fist raised and then rapping on the door. Despite the fact that he had no need for propriety and could walk in at his own volition given he was now monarch, Vangelis waited for his friend, brother and confidant, simply calling through the door.
"Zanon." He called through the wood. "Are you free for a ride? I have something I must discuss with you."
It two days before the prearranged feast that would be some form of celebration for Vangelis' safe return to the shores of Colchis. Whilst not a coronation, it would also be a moment of joyous communion to herald the passing of the crown from father to son. But, to Vangelis, the whole thing was hollow. Not only did it feel strange to accept the death of his father when he had neither seen the fatal moment, nor the body in question, it also felt strange to accept a crown when there was no guarantee of it staying within his own immediate bloodline.
He had no wife. No heirs. The crown would pass to his brother and then to Dion if the situation did not change which meant that the line of inheritance had not altered with his father's death. Even possessing the crown only made Vangelis feel like a place holder for the line that had actual heirs to continue it.
Then there was his changing and confusing relationship with Selene whom he had spent little time with since their docked in Colchis, but had felt the need to confide in - even silently - in the stables the morning after his father's death had been revealed. Then there was their conversation on the ship. And the fact that she was the only one to know that he had abdicated his throne for a temporary period of time... He was fully aware that he held certain feelings for Selene that did not equate to that of solely friendship. Yet, barring one manic incident that she had determined was a mistake back in the Dimitrou lands, she had never given the indication that her affections were any more than that of a companion. At least, not that he had seen...
'When he is ready, he will choose you. It is not because he does not wish to, but because he does not feel worthy. Those around him can see it... But it will take him longer. When he accepts it in himself, he will saddle you and let you lead him to conquer the world.'
The words rang in his head - a forgotten conversation that hadn't even been for him to hear - but one that Selene had held with his horse. His lips curled at the corner as if he wished to smile at the notion of Selene having such an in-depth conversation with a stallion. The words, though, held an effect on him and they swirled in his mind as he headed from his study to the private quarters of the family, looking for his brother.
She had been talking of the horse and his duties towards he - the new King - but in his current mindset Vangelis thought upon them differently. Thought upon them as if they were referring to a wife rather than an animal. 'When he is ready, he will choose...', 'Those around him can see it... When he accepts it in himself... let you lead him to conquer the world...'
Looking to such advice - to the fact that others could see what he was supposedly blind to, Vangelis found himself at his brother and sister-in-law's bed chamber, his curled fist raised and then rapping on the door. Despite the fact that he had no need for propriety and could walk in at his own volition given he was now monarch, Vangelis waited for his friend, brother and confidant, simply calling through the door.
"Zanon." He called through the wood. "Are you free for a ride? I have something I must discuss with you."
Sleep had been hard to come by lately, and he found himself mostly at his desk trying to keep up on the correspondence that had seemingly never ended since Vangelis' absence. Instead of just his own province to maintain he had to keep up with all of them, respond to the sympathies that were rolling in about his father, behave as king until Vangelis took over. It was his way to continue this, silently doing as needed behind the scenes until his elder brother took on the burden when he was ready. It was a good deal to do, so many things to think over and the stress weighed on him, but Vangelis was now king, and he had the entire country on his shoulders, so what little he could do to help support him was what would be done.
The knock on the door barely registered until the aforementioned elder brother's voice filtered through and he stood with a wince. His cane leaned beside the desk but it was a short enough walk to the door, and he wasn't fully ready to confess to his brother how bad the latest flare up of the badly scarred wound was. Leaving it aside, he crossed to the door and opened it with a tired if warm smile for the eldest Kotas.
"Always, brother."
Already dressed fit enough for a ride, he reached beside the door to pull his dagger from where it hung to sheath at his side. There was little in the way of threats against them, especially on their own lands, but it was better safe than sorry. Once it was settled he stepped out of the room, closing the door behind him and gesturing for Vangelis to lead the way as the brothers made their way down to the stables.
He had a few vague inklings of what the new king wanted to discuss. The state of the kingdom since he'd been gone, their father's passing, the news of the Egyptian visit to Taengea that had arrived along with his party. Really the topics were endless, but Zanon had another thought in mind before things descended into other serious discussion.
"Before you begin, I wanted you to be the first to know that Evras is with child again. We're...hopeful."
It had been nearly four years since the last pregnancy had ended in miscarriage, and in the time that had passed between he had thought himself prepared to be father only to one, and that if this were to ever happen again he would be ready for whatever disappointment. Now though, he remembered how it felt. The excitement of the prospect of another babe racing about the halls, Dion being the proper elder brother he had always been so eager to be. A reconciliation that would keep him and Evras close again. So much hope pinned on one small thing, it wasn't fair for him to give it so much weight.
Looking over, he waited for Vangelis' reaction, wondering how his brother would respond. He couldn't be sure if it would be a happiness or dread that the family might once again have to go through the mourning and loss as they had with the others.
"But, what did you wish to speak of. There's little more to say on that yet."
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Sleep had been hard to come by lately, and he found himself mostly at his desk trying to keep up on the correspondence that had seemingly never ended since Vangelis' absence. Instead of just his own province to maintain he had to keep up with all of them, respond to the sympathies that were rolling in about his father, behave as king until Vangelis took over. It was his way to continue this, silently doing as needed behind the scenes until his elder brother took on the burden when he was ready. It was a good deal to do, so many things to think over and the stress weighed on him, but Vangelis was now king, and he had the entire country on his shoulders, so what little he could do to help support him was what would be done.
The knock on the door barely registered until the aforementioned elder brother's voice filtered through and he stood with a wince. His cane leaned beside the desk but it was a short enough walk to the door, and he wasn't fully ready to confess to his brother how bad the latest flare up of the badly scarred wound was. Leaving it aside, he crossed to the door and opened it with a tired if warm smile for the eldest Kotas.
"Always, brother."
Already dressed fit enough for a ride, he reached beside the door to pull his dagger from where it hung to sheath at his side. There was little in the way of threats against them, especially on their own lands, but it was better safe than sorry. Once it was settled he stepped out of the room, closing the door behind him and gesturing for Vangelis to lead the way as the brothers made their way down to the stables.
He had a few vague inklings of what the new king wanted to discuss. The state of the kingdom since he'd been gone, their father's passing, the news of the Egyptian visit to Taengea that had arrived along with his party. Really the topics were endless, but Zanon had another thought in mind before things descended into other serious discussion.
"Before you begin, I wanted you to be the first to know that Evras is with child again. We're...hopeful."
It had been nearly four years since the last pregnancy had ended in miscarriage, and in the time that had passed between he had thought himself prepared to be father only to one, and that if this were to ever happen again he would be ready for whatever disappointment. Now though, he remembered how it felt. The excitement of the prospect of another babe racing about the halls, Dion being the proper elder brother he had always been so eager to be. A reconciliation that would keep him and Evras close again. So much hope pinned on one small thing, it wasn't fair for him to give it so much weight.
Looking over, he waited for Vangelis' reaction, wondering how his brother would respond. He couldn't be sure if it would be a happiness or dread that the family might once again have to go through the mourning and loss as they had with the others.
"But, what did you wish to speak of. There's little more to say on that yet."
Sleep had been hard to come by lately, and he found himself mostly at his desk trying to keep up on the correspondence that had seemingly never ended since Vangelis' absence. Instead of just his own province to maintain he had to keep up with all of them, respond to the sympathies that were rolling in about his father, behave as king until Vangelis took over. It was his way to continue this, silently doing as needed behind the scenes until his elder brother took on the burden when he was ready. It was a good deal to do, so many things to think over and the stress weighed on him, but Vangelis was now king, and he had the entire country on his shoulders, so what little he could do to help support him was what would be done.
The knock on the door barely registered until the aforementioned elder brother's voice filtered through and he stood with a wince. His cane leaned beside the desk but it was a short enough walk to the door, and he wasn't fully ready to confess to his brother how bad the latest flare up of the badly scarred wound was. Leaving it aside, he crossed to the door and opened it with a tired if warm smile for the eldest Kotas.
"Always, brother."
Already dressed fit enough for a ride, he reached beside the door to pull his dagger from where it hung to sheath at his side. There was little in the way of threats against them, especially on their own lands, but it was better safe than sorry. Once it was settled he stepped out of the room, closing the door behind him and gesturing for Vangelis to lead the way as the brothers made their way down to the stables.
He had a few vague inklings of what the new king wanted to discuss. The state of the kingdom since he'd been gone, their father's passing, the news of the Egyptian visit to Taengea that had arrived along with his party. Really the topics were endless, but Zanon had another thought in mind before things descended into other serious discussion.
"Before you begin, I wanted you to be the first to know that Evras is with child again. We're...hopeful."
It had been nearly four years since the last pregnancy had ended in miscarriage, and in the time that had passed between he had thought himself prepared to be father only to one, and that if this were to ever happen again he would be ready for whatever disappointment. Now though, he remembered how it felt. The excitement of the prospect of another babe racing about the halls, Dion being the proper elder brother he had always been so eager to be. A reconciliation that would keep him and Evras close again. So much hope pinned on one small thing, it wasn't fair for him to give it so much weight.
Looking over, he waited for Vangelis' reaction, wondering how his brother would respond. He couldn't be sure if it would be a happiness or dread that the family might once again have to go through the mourning and loss as they had with the others.
"But, what did you wish to speak of. There's little more to say on that yet."
When Zanon answered the door and was quick to offer his time without consideration for anything else, Vangelis felt a flash of warmth in his chest. Whilst there were many families in the kingdoms that he both knew and was a stranger to, who hounded one another, schemed and even murdered their own blood for the throne, the Kotas family had never been like that. Not once had any of his brothers shown a form of jealousy. Nor had his aunt Tythra ever regarded her brother with resentment over his gender. The entire Kotas brood had one creed over everything else: Blood Above All. They were a family first and a ruling monarchy second.
Yet each and every one of them was aware of the significant of their status as the first family of Colchis. Vangelis: the son who performed to the best of his abilities and to the detriment of his personal life, the role of perfect Prince and General. Zanon: the brains behind the power of the throne, who acted as a shadow made of stone - always present and always a source of power and strength to be relied upon. Yiannis was the fire, the passionate rebellion who was needed in times of hard decisions. And Silas was the heart. The one to keep them honest and together as a brotherhood. Whilst Athanasia was female, her role was, in a way, the most important. A single girl, younger than her siblings, was a point of vulnerability; an individual that all those who came before her were united in protecting and ensuring a better world for. Significant in her very existence.
Vangelis had never once doubted a single one of his siblings or his parents - not even his cousins came into suspicion. The Kotas clan was not like other ruling Houses. They were loyal. And in that loyalty, lay power.
Taking a step back so that Zanon might exit his rooms, Vangelis followed his brother's direction and led the way to the stables. They walked in a grave silence that was not uncomfortable - simply the way the both of them were, for neither was the sort of idle chatter. Instead, the silence was only broken when they arrived outside into the dusky night air and made their way to the stables, where a torch bracket burned to illuminate the internal stalls.
Avoiding Phobos' stall again, for Vangelis did not have the time now to break in a wild stallion, he reached out to touch his muzzle in an apology, only to turn to the devout and dependant Windrunner.
It was then that Zanon delivered his news, stilling Vangelis' hands on the gate of his preferred steed's compartment.
Looking around at his brother with a face deliberately shut down - for Vangelis turned ever stonier when emotions ran high - the emotions inside himself were far more obvious in their order and strength. The first, was an intense joy. For his brother, for his family. Another Kotas to enter into the world. Potentially another heir to solidify their reign all the more. Such news could not be more joyous in a time of tragedy. The thought of which led to a feeling of deep sorrow. For this would be the first grandchild that their father would never know. There would be more events to be missed. Celebrations of birth, festivals, coronations, marriages and further children added to the Kotas name. But this would be the first one that Tython would not bear witness to himself. Had Zanon not specified that he was the first to be told, Vangelis would have wondered if their mother knew and she would react to such bittersweet news.
His eyes turning soft and his expression warm, Vangelis jolted from his reverie of shock and quiet and was immediately striding the four steps it took to bring him back to his brother. A large hand reached out to come upon Zanon's shoulder and then pull him into an embrace of strength and support.
"This is joyous news, brother mine." Vangelis told him with perfect sincerity, his voice low and offered to Zanon's ear. He squeezed hard and then slapped at the man's back and drew back, his gaze landing hard upon his younger brother. "Do not let past sorrow intrude on you and Evras's elation." He said, the words coming out like a sharp command from a King. He slapped his hand down upon the man's shoulder. "Take happiness where it can be found, else why do we bother to fight through our sorrows?"
It was a common paraphrase that their father had liked to dish out in informal moments with his family.
Vangelis had never been a father. Never, barring once, ever thought that he was to become one. And he had certainly never lost the chance to meet a child of his, conceived yet not born. He knew that his advice could not come from a position of wisdom or experience. Only blind objectivity and naive idealism. But he hoped that it helped his brother even then...
When Zanon changed the topic to Vangelis' own concerns, the elder of the two, followed his lead, clearly not wishing to continue speaking of his family's latest future addition.
Vangelis' response was a soft shake of the head and a nudge of his brow towards the horses. His message was silent but clear... his words were not for the stables but for the privacy of the open cliffsides that the two of them had been riding along and exploring since they were young.
Experienced horsemen, both of them, it took only moments for Vangelis and Zanon to be mounted and riding from the stables of their home at a speed unsafe for any without the years of practice they each possessed. Vangelis took the lead, if only through habit - as he had always led his brothers on their adventures. If any dangers were to befall them, he had always been determined that he would be the one to suffer them before the siblings that he considered his responsibility. But the role of leader was quickly abated as their horses climbed the well-known paths of the cliffs and mountain pathways - surefooted even in the darkness - and found themselves upon an open grassy plateau some hundred feet or so above their home...
It was here that Vangelis drew back on the reins and allowed his brother to draw himself up beside him, the two of them turned out to face the inky black sea, rolling beneath a midnight blue sky...
It was now that was the best chance for Vangelis to open conversation, but he had not the knowledge or skill to know how. What was he to say to his brother that would properly begin the topic but in a tone that was right, with facts that were accurate? He knew his brother's opinion on his status of bachelordom. Zanon had made it very clear with multiple jests over the years. But he did not seek his brother's comedic notions now. More the mature and calculating mind of the man he respected...
"I think..." Vangelis began, his words odd both in his head and on his tongue. "... that I am determined to marry, brother." He said, setting off the conversation in a manner that immediately felt wrong. His brow furrowed. "No. I have determined that I should marry." Yes. That was slightly better...
He glanced at his brother with a quick and unsure look before turning back to watch the dark waves crest in little froths of dimmed white in the distance...
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When Zanon answered the door and was quick to offer his time without consideration for anything else, Vangelis felt a flash of warmth in his chest. Whilst there were many families in the kingdoms that he both knew and was a stranger to, who hounded one another, schemed and even murdered their own blood for the throne, the Kotas family had never been like that. Not once had any of his brothers shown a form of jealousy. Nor had his aunt Tythra ever regarded her brother with resentment over his gender. The entire Kotas brood had one creed over everything else: Blood Above All. They were a family first and a ruling monarchy second.
Yet each and every one of them was aware of the significant of their status as the first family of Colchis. Vangelis: the son who performed to the best of his abilities and to the detriment of his personal life, the role of perfect Prince and General. Zanon: the brains behind the power of the throne, who acted as a shadow made of stone - always present and always a source of power and strength to be relied upon. Yiannis was the fire, the passionate rebellion who was needed in times of hard decisions. And Silas was the heart. The one to keep them honest and together as a brotherhood. Whilst Athanasia was female, her role was, in a way, the most important. A single girl, younger than her siblings, was a point of vulnerability; an individual that all those who came before her were united in protecting and ensuring a better world for. Significant in her very existence.
Vangelis had never once doubted a single one of his siblings or his parents - not even his cousins came into suspicion. The Kotas clan was not like other ruling Houses. They were loyal. And in that loyalty, lay power.
Taking a step back so that Zanon might exit his rooms, Vangelis followed his brother's direction and led the way to the stables. They walked in a grave silence that was not uncomfortable - simply the way the both of them were, for neither was the sort of idle chatter. Instead, the silence was only broken when they arrived outside into the dusky night air and made their way to the stables, where a torch bracket burned to illuminate the internal stalls.
Avoiding Phobos' stall again, for Vangelis did not have the time now to break in a wild stallion, he reached out to touch his muzzle in an apology, only to turn to the devout and dependant Windrunner.
It was then that Zanon delivered his news, stilling Vangelis' hands on the gate of his preferred steed's compartment.
Looking around at his brother with a face deliberately shut down - for Vangelis turned ever stonier when emotions ran high - the emotions inside himself were far more obvious in their order and strength. The first, was an intense joy. For his brother, for his family. Another Kotas to enter into the world. Potentially another heir to solidify their reign all the more. Such news could not be more joyous in a time of tragedy. The thought of which led to a feeling of deep sorrow. For this would be the first grandchild that their father would never know. There would be more events to be missed. Celebrations of birth, festivals, coronations, marriages and further children added to the Kotas name. But this would be the first one that Tython would not bear witness to himself. Had Zanon not specified that he was the first to be told, Vangelis would have wondered if their mother knew and she would react to such bittersweet news.
His eyes turning soft and his expression warm, Vangelis jolted from his reverie of shock and quiet and was immediately striding the four steps it took to bring him back to his brother. A large hand reached out to come upon Zanon's shoulder and then pull him into an embrace of strength and support.
"This is joyous news, brother mine." Vangelis told him with perfect sincerity, his voice low and offered to Zanon's ear. He squeezed hard and then slapped at the man's back and drew back, his gaze landing hard upon his younger brother. "Do not let past sorrow intrude on you and Evras's elation." He said, the words coming out like a sharp command from a King. He slapped his hand down upon the man's shoulder. "Take happiness where it can be found, else why do we bother to fight through our sorrows?"
It was a common paraphrase that their father had liked to dish out in informal moments with his family.
Vangelis had never been a father. Never, barring once, ever thought that he was to become one. And he had certainly never lost the chance to meet a child of his, conceived yet not born. He knew that his advice could not come from a position of wisdom or experience. Only blind objectivity and naive idealism. But he hoped that it helped his brother even then...
When Zanon changed the topic to Vangelis' own concerns, the elder of the two, followed his lead, clearly not wishing to continue speaking of his family's latest future addition.
Vangelis' response was a soft shake of the head and a nudge of his brow towards the horses. His message was silent but clear... his words were not for the stables but for the privacy of the open cliffsides that the two of them had been riding along and exploring since they were young.
Experienced horsemen, both of them, it took only moments for Vangelis and Zanon to be mounted and riding from the stables of their home at a speed unsafe for any without the years of practice they each possessed. Vangelis took the lead, if only through habit - as he had always led his brothers on their adventures. If any dangers were to befall them, he had always been determined that he would be the one to suffer them before the siblings that he considered his responsibility. But the role of leader was quickly abated as their horses climbed the well-known paths of the cliffs and mountain pathways - surefooted even in the darkness - and found themselves upon an open grassy plateau some hundred feet or so above their home...
It was here that Vangelis drew back on the reins and allowed his brother to draw himself up beside him, the two of them turned out to face the inky black sea, rolling beneath a midnight blue sky...
It was now that was the best chance for Vangelis to open conversation, but he had not the knowledge or skill to know how. What was he to say to his brother that would properly begin the topic but in a tone that was right, with facts that were accurate? He knew his brother's opinion on his status of bachelordom. Zanon had made it very clear with multiple jests over the years. But he did not seek his brother's comedic notions now. More the mature and calculating mind of the man he respected...
"I think..." Vangelis began, his words odd both in his head and on his tongue. "... that I am determined to marry, brother." He said, setting off the conversation in a manner that immediately felt wrong. His brow furrowed. "No. I have determined that I should marry." Yes. That was slightly better...
He glanced at his brother with a quick and unsure look before turning back to watch the dark waves crest in little froths of dimmed white in the distance...
When Zanon answered the door and was quick to offer his time without consideration for anything else, Vangelis felt a flash of warmth in his chest. Whilst there were many families in the kingdoms that he both knew and was a stranger to, who hounded one another, schemed and even murdered their own blood for the throne, the Kotas family had never been like that. Not once had any of his brothers shown a form of jealousy. Nor had his aunt Tythra ever regarded her brother with resentment over his gender. The entire Kotas brood had one creed over everything else: Blood Above All. They were a family first and a ruling monarchy second.
Yet each and every one of them was aware of the significant of their status as the first family of Colchis. Vangelis: the son who performed to the best of his abilities and to the detriment of his personal life, the role of perfect Prince and General. Zanon: the brains behind the power of the throne, who acted as a shadow made of stone - always present and always a source of power and strength to be relied upon. Yiannis was the fire, the passionate rebellion who was needed in times of hard decisions. And Silas was the heart. The one to keep them honest and together as a brotherhood. Whilst Athanasia was female, her role was, in a way, the most important. A single girl, younger than her siblings, was a point of vulnerability; an individual that all those who came before her were united in protecting and ensuring a better world for. Significant in her very existence.
Vangelis had never once doubted a single one of his siblings or his parents - not even his cousins came into suspicion. The Kotas clan was not like other ruling Houses. They were loyal. And in that loyalty, lay power.
Taking a step back so that Zanon might exit his rooms, Vangelis followed his brother's direction and led the way to the stables. They walked in a grave silence that was not uncomfortable - simply the way the both of them were, for neither was the sort of idle chatter. Instead, the silence was only broken when they arrived outside into the dusky night air and made their way to the stables, where a torch bracket burned to illuminate the internal stalls.
Avoiding Phobos' stall again, for Vangelis did not have the time now to break in a wild stallion, he reached out to touch his muzzle in an apology, only to turn to the devout and dependant Windrunner.
It was then that Zanon delivered his news, stilling Vangelis' hands on the gate of his preferred steed's compartment.
Looking around at his brother with a face deliberately shut down - for Vangelis turned ever stonier when emotions ran high - the emotions inside himself were far more obvious in their order and strength. The first, was an intense joy. For his brother, for his family. Another Kotas to enter into the world. Potentially another heir to solidify their reign all the more. Such news could not be more joyous in a time of tragedy. The thought of which led to a feeling of deep sorrow. For this would be the first grandchild that their father would never know. There would be more events to be missed. Celebrations of birth, festivals, coronations, marriages and further children added to the Kotas name. But this would be the first one that Tython would not bear witness to himself. Had Zanon not specified that he was the first to be told, Vangelis would have wondered if their mother knew and she would react to such bittersweet news.
His eyes turning soft and his expression warm, Vangelis jolted from his reverie of shock and quiet and was immediately striding the four steps it took to bring him back to his brother. A large hand reached out to come upon Zanon's shoulder and then pull him into an embrace of strength and support.
"This is joyous news, brother mine." Vangelis told him with perfect sincerity, his voice low and offered to Zanon's ear. He squeezed hard and then slapped at the man's back and drew back, his gaze landing hard upon his younger brother. "Do not let past sorrow intrude on you and Evras's elation." He said, the words coming out like a sharp command from a King. He slapped his hand down upon the man's shoulder. "Take happiness where it can be found, else why do we bother to fight through our sorrows?"
It was a common paraphrase that their father had liked to dish out in informal moments with his family.
Vangelis had never been a father. Never, barring once, ever thought that he was to become one. And he had certainly never lost the chance to meet a child of his, conceived yet not born. He knew that his advice could not come from a position of wisdom or experience. Only blind objectivity and naive idealism. But he hoped that it helped his brother even then...
When Zanon changed the topic to Vangelis' own concerns, the elder of the two, followed his lead, clearly not wishing to continue speaking of his family's latest future addition.
Vangelis' response was a soft shake of the head and a nudge of his brow towards the horses. His message was silent but clear... his words were not for the stables but for the privacy of the open cliffsides that the two of them had been riding along and exploring since they were young.
Experienced horsemen, both of them, it took only moments for Vangelis and Zanon to be mounted and riding from the stables of their home at a speed unsafe for any without the years of practice they each possessed. Vangelis took the lead, if only through habit - as he had always led his brothers on their adventures. If any dangers were to befall them, he had always been determined that he would be the one to suffer them before the siblings that he considered his responsibility. But the role of leader was quickly abated as their horses climbed the well-known paths of the cliffs and mountain pathways - surefooted even in the darkness - and found themselves upon an open grassy plateau some hundred feet or so above their home...
It was here that Vangelis drew back on the reins and allowed his brother to draw himself up beside him, the two of them turned out to face the inky black sea, rolling beneath a midnight blue sky...
It was now that was the best chance for Vangelis to open conversation, but he had not the knowledge or skill to know how. What was he to say to his brother that would properly begin the topic but in a tone that was right, with facts that were accurate? He knew his brother's opinion on his status of bachelordom. Zanon had made it very clear with multiple jests over the years. But he did not seek his brother's comedic notions now. More the mature and calculating mind of the man he respected...
"I think..." Vangelis began, his words odd both in his head and on his tongue. "... that I am determined to marry, brother." He said, setting off the conversation in a manner that immediately felt wrong. His brow furrowed. "No. I have determined that I should marry." Yes. That was slightly better...
He glanced at his brother with a quick and unsure look before turning back to watch the dark waves crest in little froths of dimmed white in the distance...
The embrace was unexpected but not unwelcome, and Zanon smiled as he clapped his brother on the back in return. To see that the family could still be excited about the news of another child after so many lost between them was a relief. They had gone through so much, ups and downs, joy and loss, and as Vangelis repeated the oft said family mantra in an attempt to keep his spirits up. It touched his heart to know that his brother was a constant source of support through thick and thin, the Kotas were not an overly emotional family and so moments like this were all the more cherished.
"We are trying to remain optimistic."
Silence ensued as the men prepared their horses and rode out, taking in the cliffs and sea as they went through the Colchian countryside. Though it was considered the least beautiful of the Greek kingdoms, Zanon had always found the rugged landscape to hold its own kind of unique attraction. Something about the way the waves crashed against the rock, and the plants that grew stubbornly in the rocks of the mountainside were all the more beautiful for their insistence at thriving where other things could not.
When his elder brother drew his horse to a halt, the second prince pulled along side him and looked to over with a quiet curiosity, waiting for Vangelis to say what he needed to say. Fighting the automatic lift of his brow as the man who he had only ever known to be stoic and sensible laid out his decision to marry. He knew that Vang was far from chaste, but to hear him discuss the idea of marriage felt somehow odd and foreign. At the same time it made perfect sense. Why else would the company of a certain Taengean woman have been included in the party that had returned.
"Yes. Now you are king I believe that is the logical next step."
Zanon hesitated a moment, staring out over the waves before proceeding in what he hoped was delicate enough phrasing.
"I had thought, that was the reason the Lady Selene returned with you. Was she not the lady you had in mind?"
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The embrace was unexpected but not unwelcome, and Zanon smiled as he clapped his brother on the back in return. To see that the family could still be excited about the news of another child after so many lost between them was a relief. They had gone through so much, ups and downs, joy and loss, and as Vangelis repeated the oft said family mantra in an attempt to keep his spirits up. It touched his heart to know that his brother was a constant source of support through thick and thin, the Kotas were not an overly emotional family and so moments like this were all the more cherished.
"We are trying to remain optimistic."
Silence ensued as the men prepared their horses and rode out, taking in the cliffs and sea as they went through the Colchian countryside. Though it was considered the least beautiful of the Greek kingdoms, Zanon had always found the rugged landscape to hold its own kind of unique attraction. Something about the way the waves crashed against the rock, and the plants that grew stubbornly in the rocks of the mountainside were all the more beautiful for their insistence at thriving where other things could not.
When his elder brother drew his horse to a halt, the second prince pulled along side him and looked to over with a quiet curiosity, waiting for Vangelis to say what he needed to say. Fighting the automatic lift of his brow as the man who he had only ever known to be stoic and sensible laid out his decision to marry. He knew that Vang was far from chaste, but to hear him discuss the idea of marriage felt somehow odd and foreign. At the same time it made perfect sense. Why else would the company of a certain Taengean woman have been included in the party that had returned.
"Yes. Now you are king I believe that is the logical next step."
Zanon hesitated a moment, staring out over the waves before proceeding in what he hoped was delicate enough phrasing.
"I had thought, that was the reason the Lady Selene returned with you. Was she not the lady you had in mind?"
The embrace was unexpected but not unwelcome, and Zanon smiled as he clapped his brother on the back in return. To see that the family could still be excited about the news of another child after so many lost between them was a relief. They had gone through so much, ups and downs, joy and loss, and as Vangelis repeated the oft said family mantra in an attempt to keep his spirits up. It touched his heart to know that his brother was a constant source of support through thick and thin, the Kotas were not an overly emotional family and so moments like this were all the more cherished.
"We are trying to remain optimistic."
Silence ensued as the men prepared their horses and rode out, taking in the cliffs and sea as they went through the Colchian countryside. Though it was considered the least beautiful of the Greek kingdoms, Zanon had always found the rugged landscape to hold its own kind of unique attraction. Something about the way the waves crashed against the rock, and the plants that grew stubbornly in the rocks of the mountainside were all the more beautiful for their insistence at thriving where other things could not.
When his elder brother drew his horse to a halt, the second prince pulled along side him and looked to over with a quiet curiosity, waiting for Vangelis to say what he needed to say. Fighting the automatic lift of his brow as the man who he had only ever known to be stoic and sensible laid out his decision to marry. He knew that Vang was far from chaste, but to hear him discuss the idea of marriage felt somehow odd and foreign. At the same time it made perfect sense. Why else would the company of a certain Taengean woman have been included in the party that had returned.
"Yes. Now you are king I believe that is the logical next step."
Zanon hesitated a moment, staring out over the waves before proceeding in what he hoped was delicate enough phrasing.
"I had thought, that was the reason the Lady Selene returned with you. Was she not the lady you had in mind?"
Vangelis stayed quiet whilst Zanon attempted to find the words to his brother's sudden admittance and plan. He wasn't surprised that his own plans were a shock to his younger brother. For the man had been attempting to joke, con and guilt him into marriage since the birth of Dion. For Vangelis to openly admit to such a consideration now, after such probing had failed to bring him any closer to serious talks of matrimony, it had to be a source of confusion or curiosity for the man.
Vangelis was almost amused by the level of restraint Zanon clearly employed so as not to jump upon his ambition with a selfish enthusiasm. Instead, he fell upon the logic that, as he was now King, it was Vangelis' duty to provide offspring and heirs.
Despite how odd the idea sat with him still.
Having allowed Zanon the silence to come upon his preferred response in his own time, Vangelis' features hardened and his lips parted to answer almost immediately when Zanon brought up the topic of Selene.
He was no idiot. Whilst the subject had not yet been broached given that the death of the king had taken priority over everything else since his arrival home, he had been aware of what it would look like to return with Selene in toe. At least to some. Yet, despite his thoughts swirling around that very person, Vangelis felt the need to set his brother right. He operated only ever with honesty. Especially with his blood.
"No." He stated simply, answering his earlier statement over his question first time around. He then paused, wondering how best to frame his next words so they did not read as an excuse or deceit. "Lady Selene was in the company of her sister when I attempted to free Stephanos and his wife from Taengea. She came to Colchis solely because she refused to remain on Taengean soil with her sister so close to delivering her child." He glanced towards his brother with an almost amused expression - as if to say how you could possibly thing otherwise - "She did not come here for me, nor did I bring her with any intentions between us."
His gaze turned back to the waters that were too far below them to have their roaring noise reach up towards the precipice of the cliffside. But the oceans around the Kirakles isles were so familiar to Vangelis that he could hear their call even if it was only in his own head. He allowed it to filter the quiet between them and dance with the soft hum of the wind. The breeze tugged at his clothes and sent the mane and tail of his steed streaming out to one side, intermittently lowering back towards the ground as the winds of the mountains dimmed and rose in a fluid movement similar a water, fathoms below. He felt the chill seep beneath his shirt and into his skin but he did not shiver.
"Yet..." He turned his attention to the second part of Zanon's query. "The Lady Selene is the one I am considering for marriage." His eyes narrowed and his lips thinned in thought. "She... she meets the criteria I would require in a Queen." He began, knowing this information with a certainty that had it easy to fall back on as a conversation starter. The rest was more subjective and harder to manage... "And whilst I was in Taengea..." He frowned, not sure how to phrase his words. "She asked something of me, brother... The fact of it matters not but... I don't believe I would have done it for any but our blood..." He turned his gaze back to the man whom he had - without knowing it - potentially made King of Colchis for just a few hours. Whom he had risked being King of Colchis permanently. "Whilst I cannot claim to love her as you love Evras... I have only felt able to do such for one woman in the thirty-two years of my life... I fear that I would not again, were I to continue searching for something I don't rightly understand myself."
Vangelis shook his head as if to clear his thoughts or refocus his mind.
"It seems foolish to continue a quest for so perfect a mate such that I'm unlikely to see it when I find it, at the expense of woman such as Selene..." He turned back to the man who sat on his own steed beside him.
"Yet, I would not be content without your advice, brother."
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Vangelis stayed quiet whilst Zanon attempted to find the words to his brother's sudden admittance and plan. He wasn't surprised that his own plans were a shock to his younger brother. For the man had been attempting to joke, con and guilt him into marriage since the birth of Dion. For Vangelis to openly admit to such a consideration now, after such probing had failed to bring him any closer to serious talks of matrimony, it had to be a source of confusion or curiosity for the man.
Vangelis was almost amused by the level of restraint Zanon clearly employed so as not to jump upon his ambition with a selfish enthusiasm. Instead, he fell upon the logic that, as he was now King, it was Vangelis' duty to provide offspring and heirs.
Despite how odd the idea sat with him still.
Having allowed Zanon the silence to come upon his preferred response in his own time, Vangelis' features hardened and his lips parted to answer almost immediately when Zanon brought up the topic of Selene.
He was no idiot. Whilst the subject had not yet been broached given that the death of the king had taken priority over everything else since his arrival home, he had been aware of what it would look like to return with Selene in toe. At least to some. Yet, despite his thoughts swirling around that very person, Vangelis felt the need to set his brother right. He operated only ever with honesty. Especially with his blood.
"No." He stated simply, answering his earlier statement over his question first time around. He then paused, wondering how best to frame his next words so they did not read as an excuse or deceit. "Lady Selene was in the company of her sister when I attempted to free Stephanos and his wife from Taengea. She came to Colchis solely because she refused to remain on Taengean soil with her sister so close to delivering her child." He glanced towards his brother with an almost amused expression - as if to say how you could possibly thing otherwise - "She did not come here for me, nor did I bring her with any intentions between us."
His gaze turned back to the waters that were too far below them to have their roaring noise reach up towards the precipice of the cliffside. But the oceans around the Kirakles isles were so familiar to Vangelis that he could hear their call even if it was only in his own head. He allowed it to filter the quiet between them and dance with the soft hum of the wind. The breeze tugged at his clothes and sent the mane and tail of his steed streaming out to one side, intermittently lowering back towards the ground as the winds of the mountains dimmed and rose in a fluid movement similar a water, fathoms below. He felt the chill seep beneath his shirt and into his skin but he did not shiver.
"Yet..." He turned his attention to the second part of Zanon's query. "The Lady Selene is the one I am considering for marriage." His eyes narrowed and his lips thinned in thought. "She... she meets the criteria I would require in a Queen." He began, knowing this information with a certainty that had it easy to fall back on as a conversation starter. The rest was more subjective and harder to manage... "And whilst I was in Taengea..." He frowned, not sure how to phrase his words. "She asked something of me, brother... The fact of it matters not but... I don't believe I would have done it for any but our blood..." He turned his gaze back to the man whom he had - without knowing it - potentially made King of Colchis for just a few hours. Whom he had risked being King of Colchis permanently. "Whilst I cannot claim to love her as you love Evras... I have only felt able to do such for one woman in the thirty-two years of my life... I fear that I would not again, were I to continue searching for something I don't rightly understand myself."
Vangelis shook his head as if to clear his thoughts or refocus his mind.
"It seems foolish to continue a quest for so perfect a mate such that I'm unlikely to see it when I find it, at the expense of woman such as Selene..." He turned back to the man who sat on his own steed beside him.
"Yet, I would not be content without your advice, brother."
Vangelis stayed quiet whilst Zanon attempted to find the words to his brother's sudden admittance and plan. He wasn't surprised that his own plans were a shock to his younger brother. For the man had been attempting to joke, con and guilt him into marriage since the birth of Dion. For Vangelis to openly admit to such a consideration now, after such probing had failed to bring him any closer to serious talks of matrimony, it had to be a source of confusion or curiosity for the man.
Vangelis was almost amused by the level of restraint Zanon clearly employed so as not to jump upon his ambition with a selfish enthusiasm. Instead, he fell upon the logic that, as he was now King, it was Vangelis' duty to provide offspring and heirs.
Despite how odd the idea sat with him still.
Having allowed Zanon the silence to come upon his preferred response in his own time, Vangelis' features hardened and his lips parted to answer almost immediately when Zanon brought up the topic of Selene.
He was no idiot. Whilst the subject had not yet been broached given that the death of the king had taken priority over everything else since his arrival home, he had been aware of what it would look like to return with Selene in toe. At least to some. Yet, despite his thoughts swirling around that very person, Vangelis felt the need to set his brother right. He operated only ever with honesty. Especially with his blood.
"No." He stated simply, answering his earlier statement over his question first time around. He then paused, wondering how best to frame his next words so they did not read as an excuse or deceit. "Lady Selene was in the company of her sister when I attempted to free Stephanos and his wife from Taengea. She came to Colchis solely because she refused to remain on Taengean soil with her sister so close to delivering her child." He glanced towards his brother with an almost amused expression - as if to say how you could possibly thing otherwise - "She did not come here for me, nor did I bring her with any intentions between us."
His gaze turned back to the waters that were too far below them to have their roaring noise reach up towards the precipice of the cliffside. But the oceans around the Kirakles isles were so familiar to Vangelis that he could hear their call even if it was only in his own head. He allowed it to filter the quiet between them and dance with the soft hum of the wind. The breeze tugged at his clothes and sent the mane and tail of his steed streaming out to one side, intermittently lowering back towards the ground as the winds of the mountains dimmed and rose in a fluid movement similar a water, fathoms below. He felt the chill seep beneath his shirt and into his skin but he did not shiver.
"Yet..." He turned his attention to the second part of Zanon's query. "The Lady Selene is the one I am considering for marriage." His eyes narrowed and his lips thinned in thought. "She... she meets the criteria I would require in a Queen." He began, knowing this information with a certainty that had it easy to fall back on as a conversation starter. The rest was more subjective and harder to manage... "And whilst I was in Taengea..." He frowned, not sure how to phrase his words. "She asked something of me, brother... The fact of it matters not but... I don't believe I would have done it for any but our blood..." He turned his gaze back to the man whom he had - without knowing it - potentially made King of Colchis for just a few hours. Whom he had risked being King of Colchis permanently. "Whilst I cannot claim to love her as you love Evras... I have only felt able to do such for one woman in the thirty-two years of my life... I fear that I would not again, were I to continue searching for something I don't rightly understand myself."
Vangelis shook his head as if to clear his thoughts or refocus his mind.
"It seems foolish to continue a quest for so perfect a mate such that I'm unlikely to see it when I find it, at the expense of woman such as Selene..." He turned back to the man who sat on his own steed beside him.
"Yet, I would not be content without your advice, brother."
The crown prince of Colchis was hard pressed to think of another time when he had been more confused by a relationship between two people. It seemed clear as day to him that Selene was the best choice for Queen, someone soft to balance out his brother’s hardness. And he liked her, she was interesting and amusing instead of just being a proper lady. She could hold her own court sessions without fear and no doubt bring a bit of grace and elegance to the Kotas line. And after all, they had a family tradition of Taengean queens who flourished on the rocky shores.
Keeping his thoughts to himself, lips pressed in a thoughtful line, Zanon watched as Vangelis thought, wondering what stoic masterpiece theatre was playing out behind that solemn brow. His brother’s reaction drew a choked laugh of surprise from him, and Zanon had to draw to a halt as he chortled at the king’s attempts at logic in love. At least when he came around to the true point of it, it was easy to see what he was trying to get to even if it seemed hopeless to try to open him il to the more emotional side of things. But then again, that was how they had always been. Vangelis stoic and strong, able to make hard decisions with an apparent ease, and Zanon, still logic and strategy, but with a more emotional edge that allowed him to see the other side of the coin.
“Brother mine, what you describe is love. One never understands it, and it manifests in different ways. But I have seen how the lady looks at you, and you at her, and I think we could not be happier to bring her into our family.”
He urged his mount forward, a smile still on his lips as he reached over to slap his brother on the back in congratulations. “I daresay though, the lady is wondering why you’ve taken so long. Have you even kissed her? Said a word of how you feel?”
With another clap to Vangelis’ shoulder, Zanon grinned broadly and featured back to the direction of the palace. “Were I in your shoes, I wouldn’t dare wait much longer. Even goddesses can grow weary of waiting.”
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The crown prince of Colchis was hard pressed to think of another time when he had been more confused by a relationship between two people. It seemed clear as day to him that Selene was the best choice for Queen, someone soft to balance out his brother’s hardness. And he liked her, she was interesting and amusing instead of just being a proper lady. She could hold her own court sessions without fear and no doubt bring a bit of grace and elegance to the Kotas line. And after all, they had a family tradition of Taengean queens who flourished on the rocky shores.
Keeping his thoughts to himself, lips pressed in a thoughtful line, Zanon watched as Vangelis thought, wondering what stoic masterpiece theatre was playing out behind that solemn brow. His brother’s reaction drew a choked laugh of surprise from him, and Zanon had to draw to a halt as he chortled at the king’s attempts at logic in love. At least when he came around to the true point of it, it was easy to see what he was trying to get to even if it seemed hopeless to try to open him il to the more emotional side of things. But then again, that was how they had always been. Vangelis stoic and strong, able to make hard decisions with an apparent ease, and Zanon, still logic and strategy, but with a more emotional edge that allowed him to see the other side of the coin.
“Brother mine, what you describe is love. One never understands it, and it manifests in different ways. But I have seen how the lady looks at you, and you at her, and I think we could not be happier to bring her into our family.”
He urged his mount forward, a smile still on his lips as he reached over to slap his brother on the back in congratulations. “I daresay though, the lady is wondering why you’ve taken so long. Have you even kissed her? Said a word of how you feel?”
With another clap to Vangelis’ shoulder, Zanon grinned broadly and featured back to the direction of the palace. “Were I in your shoes, I wouldn’t dare wait much longer. Even goddesses can grow weary of waiting.”
The crown prince of Colchis was hard pressed to think of another time when he had been more confused by a relationship between two people. It seemed clear as day to him that Selene was the best choice for Queen, someone soft to balance out his brother’s hardness. And he liked her, she was interesting and amusing instead of just being a proper lady. She could hold her own court sessions without fear and no doubt bring a bit of grace and elegance to the Kotas line. And after all, they had a family tradition of Taengean queens who flourished on the rocky shores.
Keeping his thoughts to himself, lips pressed in a thoughtful line, Zanon watched as Vangelis thought, wondering what stoic masterpiece theatre was playing out behind that solemn brow. His brother’s reaction drew a choked laugh of surprise from him, and Zanon had to draw to a halt as he chortled at the king’s attempts at logic in love. At least when he came around to the true point of it, it was easy to see what he was trying to get to even if it seemed hopeless to try to open him il to the more emotional side of things. But then again, that was how they had always been. Vangelis stoic and strong, able to make hard decisions with an apparent ease, and Zanon, still logic and strategy, but with a more emotional edge that allowed him to see the other side of the coin.
“Brother mine, what you describe is love. One never understands it, and it manifests in different ways. But I have seen how the lady looks at you, and you at her, and I think we could not be happier to bring her into our family.”
He urged his mount forward, a smile still on his lips as he reached over to slap his brother on the back in congratulations. “I daresay though, the lady is wondering why you’ve taken so long. Have you even kissed her? Said a word of how you feel?”
With another clap to Vangelis’ shoulder, Zanon grinned broadly and featured back to the direction of the palace. “Were I in your shoes, I wouldn’t dare wait much longer. Even goddesses can grow weary of waiting.”
When his brother stated, in no uncertain terms, that the thoughts and emotions he had surrounding Selene were in fact the very definition of 'love', he reacted without much expression, as was his way. He had seen how his father looked upon his mother, how she back at him. He had seen the way in which Zanon and Evras - whilst not always on the best of terms - would fly into passions (be they positive or negative to their own relationship)... Perhaps it was hard to see yourself through your own eyes or the emotions others held towards you personally... but he could not seem to collate in his head the same emotions that he saw in the couples around him with the way he felt regarding Selene.
Attempting to be wise in his decisions; balancing the emotional understanding of his brother and the more logical and rational approach that he knew he tended to favour, Vangelis decided, in that moment, that his feelings for Selene were not yet love as his brother dictated. But that they were certainly on the road to it... And, more significantly... were unlikely to be turning back.
"Hmm..." Was all he offered his brother by way of showing that he was listening, when Zanon insisted to him that he was in fact in love with Selene. It was neither a noise of agreement or disagreement. More the balance of consideration that mimicked the compromise he had come to in his own head.
When the man moved on to ask whether or not he had kissed Selene, or made his more romantic intentions known, Vangelis rolled his eyes at his brother. How could he have made his intentions known to a woman of her standing if he had not yet come to the conclusions on whether he wished to marry her?
He knew that his brother had always been a little freer with his affections than he but this was less to do with personal interest and more to do with their order of birth. Vangelis had learnt from a young age of adulthood that giving even the smallest encouragement or interest to a young woman of high birth was the equivalent of promising said woman a crown - or at least so in their eyes. In an effort to avoid giving false hopes, Vangelis had turned to priestesses and professionals to handle his bodily needs and avoided encouraging romantic connections with women of substance...
Until such a time when he could offer the throne so many assumed would be forthcoming...
As for whether he had kissed her or not, Vangelis only glanced at his brother when he asked and said nothing. For, technically, he had not. He hadn't had the chance to do so on the one time that Selene had kissed him. But he doubted his brother would appreciate the distinction that he himself thought to be significant.
When his brother turned the conversation to timings and insisted that Vangelis should not wait, it was the first time during the conversation that he agreed with the man. For whilst Vangelis would spend a lot of time considering his movements, his choices and his plans... once he had made the choice that something was to happen, he wasted no time at all in seeing it come to pass.
And his brother had succeeded in convincing him that while he might not yet be able to claim that he had fallen entirely in love with Selene of Leventi, what he was certain of, was that he wanted her for his wife and Colchis' queen. Which meant he needed to do something about it.
Accepting the slap upon his back and turning Windrunner so that he would naturally follow in the wake of Zanon's own steed, Vangelis was lost to his own thoughts for a moment, allowing the decision to cement and turn concrete within his mind. Waiting to see if his gut reacted with revolt or acceptance.
Having made his decision, he steered Windrunner forwards once more, so that he was again riding beside his brother, along the side of an open cliffside.
"So be it, brother." Vangelis told him, in a voice that was calm and decided but with an expression that sported a rare smile. "Gods and lady willing, Colchis will have a new Queen."
At which point, his expression turned challenging and he kicked his gelding into a high speed, glancing over his shoulder to tempt his brother into a race as old as their childhood was long...
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When his brother stated, in no uncertain terms, that the thoughts and emotions he had surrounding Selene were in fact the very definition of 'love', he reacted without much expression, as was his way. He had seen how his father looked upon his mother, how she back at him. He had seen the way in which Zanon and Evras - whilst not always on the best of terms - would fly into passions (be they positive or negative to their own relationship)... Perhaps it was hard to see yourself through your own eyes or the emotions others held towards you personally... but he could not seem to collate in his head the same emotions that he saw in the couples around him with the way he felt regarding Selene.
Attempting to be wise in his decisions; balancing the emotional understanding of his brother and the more logical and rational approach that he knew he tended to favour, Vangelis decided, in that moment, that his feelings for Selene were not yet love as his brother dictated. But that they were certainly on the road to it... And, more significantly... were unlikely to be turning back.
"Hmm..." Was all he offered his brother by way of showing that he was listening, when Zanon insisted to him that he was in fact in love with Selene. It was neither a noise of agreement or disagreement. More the balance of consideration that mimicked the compromise he had come to in his own head.
When the man moved on to ask whether or not he had kissed Selene, or made his more romantic intentions known, Vangelis rolled his eyes at his brother. How could he have made his intentions known to a woman of her standing if he had not yet come to the conclusions on whether he wished to marry her?
He knew that his brother had always been a little freer with his affections than he but this was less to do with personal interest and more to do with their order of birth. Vangelis had learnt from a young age of adulthood that giving even the smallest encouragement or interest to a young woman of high birth was the equivalent of promising said woman a crown - or at least so in their eyes. In an effort to avoid giving false hopes, Vangelis had turned to priestesses and professionals to handle his bodily needs and avoided encouraging romantic connections with women of substance...
Until such a time when he could offer the throne so many assumed would be forthcoming...
As for whether he had kissed her or not, Vangelis only glanced at his brother when he asked and said nothing. For, technically, he had not. He hadn't had the chance to do so on the one time that Selene had kissed him. But he doubted his brother would appreciate the distinction that he himself thought to be significant.
When his brother turned the conversation to timings and insisted that Vangelis should not wait, it was the first time during the conversation that he agreed with the man. For whilst Vangelis would spend a lot of time considering his movements, his choices and his plans... once he had made the choice that something was to happen, he wasted no time at all in seeing it come to pass.
And his brother had succeeded in convincing him that while he might not yet be able to claim that he had fallen entirely in love with Selene of Leventi, what he was certain of, was that he wanted her for his wife and Colchis' queen. Which meant he needed to do something about it.
Accepting the slap upon his back and turning Windrunner so that he would naturally follow in the wake of Zanon's own steed, Vangelis was lost to his own thoughts for a moment, allowing the decision to cement and turn concrete within his mind. Waiting to see if his gut reacted with revolt or acceptance.
Having made his decision, he steered Windrunner forwards once more, so that he was again riding beside his brother, along the side of an open cliffside.
"So be it, brother." Vangelis told him, in a voice that was calm and decided but with an expression that sported a rare smile. "Gods and lady willing, Colchis will have a new Queen."
At which point, his expression turned challenging and he kicked his gelding into a high speed, glancing over his shoulder to tempt his brother into a race as old as their childhood was long...
When his brother stated, in no uncertain terms, that the thoughts and emotions he had surrounding Selene were in fact the very definition of 'love', he reacted without much expression, as was his way. He had seen how his father looked upon his mother, how she back at him. He had seen the way in which Zanon and Evras - whilst not always on the best of terms - would fly into passions (be they positive or negative to their own relationship)... Perhaps it was hard to see yourself through your own eyes or the emotions others held towards you personally... but he could not seem to collate in his head the same emotions that he saw in the couples around him with the way he felt regarding Selene.
Attempting to be wise in his decisions; balancing the emotional understanding of his brother and the more logical and rational approach that he knew he tended to favour, Vangelis decided, in that moment, that his feelings for Selene were not yet love as his brother dictated. But that they were certainly on the road to it... And, more significantly... were unlikely to be turning back.
"Hmm..." Was all he offered his brother by way of showing that he was listening, when Zanon insisted to him that he was in fact in love with Selene. It was neither a noise of agreement or disagreement. More the balance of consideration that mimicked the compromise he had come to in his own head.
When the man moved on to ask whether or not he had kissed Selene, or made his more romantic intentions known, Vangelis rolled his eyes at his brother. How could he have made his intentions known to a woman of her standing if he had not yet come to the conclusions on whether he wished to marry her?
He knew that his brother had always been a little freer with his affections than he but this was less to do with personal interest and more to do with their order of birth. Vangelis had learnt from a young age of adulthood that giving even the smallest encouragement or interest to a young woman of high birth was the equivalent of promising said woman a crown - or at least so in their eyes. In an effort to avoid giving false hopes, Vangelis had turned to priestesses and professionals to handle his bodily needs and avoided encouraging romantic connections with women of substance...
Until such a time when he could offer the throne so many assumed would be forthcoming...
As for whether he had kissed her or not, Vangelis only glanced at his brother when he asked and said nothing. For, technically, he had not. He hadn't had the chance to do so on the one time that Selene had kissed him. But he doubted his brother would appreciate the distinction that he himself thought to be significant.
When his brother turned the conversation to timings and insisted that Vangelis should not wait, it was the first time during the conversation that he agreed with the man. For whilst Vangelis would spend a lot of time considering his movements, his choices and his plans... once he had made the choice that something was to happen, he wasted no time at all in seeing it come to pass.
And his brother had succeeded in convincing him that while he might not yet be able to claim that he had fallen entirely in love with Selene of Leventi, what he was certain of, was that he wanted her for his wife and Colchis' queen. Which meant he needed to do something about it.
Accepting the slap upon his back and turning Windrunner so that he would naturally follow in the wake of Zanon's own steed, Vangelis was lost to his own thoughts for a moment, allowing the decision to cement and turn concrete within his mind. Waiting to see if his gut reacted with revolt or acceptance.
Having made his decision, he steered Windrunner forwards once more, so that he was again riding beside his brother, along the side of an open cliffside.
"So be it, brother." Vangelis told him, in a voice that was calm and decided but with an expression that sported a rare smile. "Gods and lady willing, Colchis will have a new Queen."
At which point, his expression turned challenging and he kicked his gelding into a high speed, glancing over his shoulder to tempt his brother into a race as old as their childhood was long...