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Athanasia paced back and forth in the foyer of the Dimitrou manner. She knew she was early, but she had been too excited to wait in her room any longer. Although she didn't think she needed any actual lessons, she was still looking forward to practicing with another woman who shared her passion for archery. Lady Dorothea was a few years older than she and probably had more experience, so maybe there were a few things that she could teach her. Perhaps Dorothea could learn from her as well. The princess had been taught by the best … her brothers … and she was quite confident in her skills.
As she neared one of the walls, she stopped and gazed for a few moments the bow and quiver of arrows propped up against it. That bow, given to her a few months ago by Vangelis after she had broken her old one by throwing it at Zanon in a fit of anger was one of her most prized possessions, finely crafted of mahogany wood and highly polished. Her quiver was made of leather in the Kotas colors accented with gold and decorated with their coat of arms. She'd had the arrows made especially for this trip. The feather fletchings were also of her family's colors and an 'A' had been carved in gold on each shaft close to the point. Athanasia doubted that Dorothea would be impressed. She probably had beautiful equipment of her own.
The young princess turned around and resumed her pacing, the open sides of her saffron peplos flowing around her with each step she took. It was fastened at her shoulders with golden fibulae accented with rubies and a crimson belt embroidered with gold threads cinched it around her tiny waist. Her hair had been entwined with red and gold ribbons and woven into one long thick braid which hung down her back. Other than golden bands around her upper arms and above her wrists, she wore no other jewelry. It would only get in the way. She didn't even wear a circlet or a tiara, for she wished for everything to remain informal today.
Perhaps she should have stayed in her room awhile longer. She probably looked rather strange walking the length of the foyer and back again over and over. The accommodations she had been given were quite spacious and had a lovely view of the gardens. Maybe if Imeeya had been sharing the room with her, she might have conversed with her for a bit to dispel some of her restless energy and anticipation. But Imeeya had her own room and she had no idea how her cousin planned to spend her day.
It was either pace around her chambers or pace here where there wasn't any furniture to get in the way. Her ears picked up the sound of approaching footsteps. Hopefully it would be Lady Dorothea and not a curious servant wondering who was marching up and down the foyer. Turning in the direction of the sound, Athanasia smiled.
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Athanasia paced back and forth in the foyer of the Dimitrou manner. She knew she was early, but she had been too excited to wait in her room any longer. Although she didn't think she needed any actual lessons, she was still looking forward to practicing with another woman who shared her passion for archery. Lady Dorothea was a few years older than she and probably had more experience, so maybe there were a few things that she could teach her. Perhaps Dorothea could learn from her as well. The princess had been taught by the best … her brothers … and she was quite confident in her skills.
As she neared one of the walls, she stopped and gazed for a few moments the bow and quiver of arrows propped up against it. That bow, given to her a few months ago by Vangelis after she had broken her old one by throwing it at Zanon in a fit of anger was one of her most prized possessions, finely crafted of mahogany wood and highly polished. Her quiver was made of leather in the Kotas colors accented with gold and decorated with their coat of arms. She'd had the arrows made especially for this trip. The feather fletchings were also of her family's colors and an 'A' had been carved in gold on each shaft close to the point. Athanasia doubted that Dorothea would be impressed. She probably had beautiful equipment of her own.
The young princess turned around and resumed her pacing, the open sides of her saffron peplos flowing around her with each step she took. It was fastened at her shoulders with golden fibulae accented with rubies and a crimson belt embroidered with gold threads cinched it around her tiny waist. Her hair had been entwined with red and gold ribbons and woven into one long thick braid which hung down her back. Other than golden bands around her upper arms and above her wrists, she wore no other jewelry. It would only get in the way. She didn't even wear a circlet or a tiara, for she wished for everything to remain informal today.
Perhaps she should have stayed in her room awhile longer. She probably looked rather strange walking the length of the foyer and back again over and over. The accommodations she had been given were quite spacious and had a lovely view of the gardens. Maybe if Imeeya had been sharing the room with her, she might have conversed with her for a bit to dispel some of her restless energy and anticipation. But Imeeya had her own room and she had no idea how her cousin planned to spend her day.
It was either pace around her chambers or pace here where there wasn't any furniture to get in the way. Her ears picked up the sound of approaching footsteps. Hopefully it would be Lady Dorothea and not a curious servant wondering who was marching up and down the foyer. Turning in the direction of the sound, Athanasia smiled.
Athanasia paced back and forth in the foyer of the Dimitrou manner. She knew she was early, but she had been too excited to wait in her room any longer. Although she didn't think she needed any actual lessons, she was still looking forward to practicing with another woman who shared her passion for archery. Lady Dorothea was a few years older than she and probably had more experience, so maybe there were a few things that she could teach her. Perhaps Dorothea could learn from her as well. The princess had been taught by the best … her brothers … and she was quite confident in her skills.
As she neared one of the walls, she stopped and gazed for a few moments the bow and quiver of arrows propped up against it. That bow, given to her a few months ago by Vangelis after she had broken her old one by throwing it at Zanon in a fit of anger was one of her most prized possessions, finely crafted of mahogany wood and highly polished. Her quiver was made of leather in the Kotas colors accented with gold and decorated with their coat of arms. She'd had the arrows made especially for this trip. The feather fletchings were also of her family's colors and an 'A' had been carved in gold on each shaft close to the point. Athanasia doubted that Dorothea would be impressed. She probably had beautiful equipment of her own.
The young princess turned around and resumed her pacing, the open sides of her saffron peplos flowing around her with each step she took. It was fastened at her shoulders with golden fibulae accented with rubies and a crimson belt embroidered with gold threads cinched it around her tiny waist. Her hair had been entwined with red and gold ribbons and woven into one long thick braid which hung down her back. Other than golden bands around her upper arms and above her wrists, she wore no other jewelry. It would only get in the way. She didn't even wear a circlet or a tiara, for she wished for everything to remain informal today.
Perhaps she should have stayed in her room awhile longer. She probably looked rather strange walking the length of the foyer and back again over and over. The accommodations she had been given were quite spacious and had a lovely view of the gardens. Maybe if Imeeya had been sharing the room with her, she might have conversed with her for a bit to dispel some of her restless energy and anticipation. But Imeeya had her own room and she had no idea how her cousin planned to spend her day.
It was either pace around her chambers or pace here where there wasn't any furniture to get in the way. Her ears picked up the sound of approaching footsteps. Hopefully it would be Lady Dorothea and not a curious servant wondering who was marching up and down the foyer. Turning in the direction of the sound, Athanasia smiled.
Dorothea greatly enjoyed teaching others the skill that had brought her so much joy over the years. Although she never managed to find a pupil that had the same raw talent she herself exhibited, it was still a joy to watch them grow through their skills. This was the one time that she hoped for a student more skilled than all the others. She had heard rumors and stories of the princess and her talent with the bow. Dorothea hoped she would see such talent on display today.
The two of them had had precious little time to interact on the royal family’s visit so far. Dorothea would be happy to spend time with the princess in the more informal setting of an archery lesson. It was also a place where Doro felt extremely comfortable and so found herself on more equal footing. She was not made to sit in rooms all day, engaging in small talk that was inconsequential. In many cases, she would rather not talk at all, preferring to ride or shoot or even run through the forests if that was what it took.
The lesson was scheduled for the morning, Dorothea hoping to avoid the heat of the midday sun and catch her pupil when she was fresh. Dressed in a plain chiton, sleeveless and pinned close for ease of movement, Dorothea finished braiding her hair so that it would be out of her way for the lesson. She hoped that the princess would be dressed similarly. Although it was not quite their time to meet, she headed down to the kitchens, grabbing a quick bite to eat and some food for them to take out to the practice courts.
Still early, but not by much, Dorothea headed to the foyer to wait for Athanasia. It turned out, she had been beaten, she noticed a moment later. It seemed the princess was just as anxious for their lesson. Returning the girl’s smile, Dorothea gave a greeting, “Good morning.”
Before she could ask if Asia had eaten, she was distracted by the beautiful bow laying against the wall. Dorothea approached it, examining with her eye, but not touching it. It was a beautiful piece of craftsmanship and she hoped that the princess would let her examine it more thoroughly. Already, she longed to test it. Her own bow, was also of excellent quality, and felt so comfortable in her hands that Dorothea often missed it when it was gone. Yet, she could appreciate the beauty of another’s instrument.
“Forgive me,” she said, turning back to her companion. “You have a magnificent bow. I hope you’ll let me try it when we get to the practice court.” After a short pause, she continued, “If you’re fed and ready, we can begin early. I’ve been looking forward to our lesson.”
The two women made their way outdoors, Dorothea smiling once the sun hit her face. She turned to the princess as they began their walk. “Have you been enjoying your stay in Taengea so far?”
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Dorothea greatly enjoyed teaching others the skill that had brought her so much joy over the years. Although she never managed to find a pupil that had the same raw talent she herself exhibited, it was still a joy to watch them grow through their skills. This was the one time that she hoped for a student more skilled than all the others. She had heard rumors and stories of the princess and her talent with the bow. Dorothea hoped she would see such talent on display today.
The two of them had had precious little time to interact on the royal family’s visit so far. Dorothea would be happy to spend time with the princess in the more informal setting of an archery lesson. It was also a place where Doro felt extremely comfortable and so found herself on more equal footing. She was not made to sit in rooms all day, engaging in small talk that was inconsequential. In many cases, she would rather not talk at all, preferring to ride or shoot or even run through the forests if that was what it took.
The lesson was scheduled for the morning, Dorothea hoping to avoid the heat of the midday sun and catch her pupil when she was fresh. Dressed in a plain chiton, sleeveless and pinned close for ease of movement, Dorothea finished braiding her hair so that it would be out of her way for the lesson. She hoped that the princess would be dressed similarly. Although it was not quite their time to meet, she headed down to the kitchens, grabbing a quick bite to eat and some food for them to take out to the practice courts.
Still early, but not by much, Dorothea headed to the foyer to wait for Athanasia. It turned out, she had been beaten, she noticed a moment later. It seemed the princess was just as anxious for their lesson. Returning the girl’s smile, Dorothea gave a greeting, “Good morning.”
Before she could ask if Asia had eaten, she was distracted by the beautiful bow laying against the wall. Dorothea approached it, examining with her eye, but not touching it. It was a beautiful piece of craftsmanship and she hoped that the princess would let her examine it more thoroughly. Already, she longed to test it. Her own bow, was also of excellent quality, and felt so comfortable in her hands that Dorothea often missed it when it was gone. Yet, she could appreciate the beauty of another’s instrument.
“Forgive me,” she said, turning back to her companion. “You have a magnificent bow. I hope you’ll let me try it when we get to the practice court.” After a short pause, she continued, “If you’re fed and ready, we can begin early. I’ve been looking forward to our lesson.”
The two women made their way outdoors, Dorothea smiling once the sun hit her face. She turned to the princess as they began their walk. “Have you been enjoying your stay in Taengea so far?”
Dorothea greatly enjoyed teaching others the skill that had brought her so much joy over the years. Although she never managed to find a pupil that had the same raw talent she herself exhibited, it was still a joy to watch them grow through their skills. This was the one time that she hoped for a student more skilled than all the others. She had heard rumors and stories of the princess and her talent with the bow. Dorothea hoped she would see such talent on display today.
The two of them had had precious little time to interact on the royal family’s visit so far. Dorothea would be happy to spend time with the princess in the more informal setting of an archery lesson. It was also a place where Doro felt extremely comfortable and so found herself on more equal footing. She was not made to sit in rooms all day, engaging in small talk that was inconsequential. In many cases, she would rather not talk at all, preferring to ride or shoot or even run through the forests if that was what it took.
The lesson was scheduled for the morning, Dorothea hoping to avoid the heat of the midday sun and catch her pupil when she was fresh. Dressed in a plain chiton, sleeveless and pinned close for ease of movement, Dorothea finished braiding her hair so that it would be out of her way for the lesson. She hoped that the princess would be dressed similarly. Although it was not quite their time to meet, she headed down to the kitchens, grabbing a quick bite to eat and some food for them to take out to the practice courts.
Still early, but not by much, Dorothea headed to the foyer to wait for Athanasia. It turned out, she had been beaten, she noticed a moment later. It seemed the princess was just as anxious for their lesson. Returning the girl’s smile, Dorothea gave a greeting, “Good morning.”
Before she could ask if Asia had eaten, she was distracted by the beautiful bow laying against the wall. Dorothea approached it, examining with her eye, but not touching it. It was a beautiful piece of craftsmanship and she hoped that the princess would let her examine it more thoroughly. Already, she longed to test it. Her own bow, was also of excellent quality, and felt so comfortable in her hands that Dorothea often missed it when it was gone. Yet, she could appreciate the beauty of another’s instrument.
“Forgive me,” she said, turning back to her companion. “You have a magnificent bow. I hope you’ll let me try it when we get to the practice court.” After a short pause, she continued, “If you’re fed and ready, we can begin early. I’ve been looking forward to our lesson.”
The two women made their way outdoors, Dorothea smiling once the sun hit her face. She turned to the princess as they began their walk. “Have you been enjoying your stay in Taengea so far?”
Athanasia's smile broadened as she was approached by the woman who was going to give her lessons today. “Good morning, Lady Dorothea,” she replied. The other girl was dressed a bit plainer than she was, and the young princess wondered if she should have worn a simpler peplos. She felt a bit overdressed but it was too late to go back upstairs and change now. And perhaps Dorothea would be impressed that she was able to hit a target while elegantly attired. While sure of her archery skills, she was a bit apprehensive and didn't want to make a total fool of herself.
Dorothea seemed more interested in her bow than she was in the way she was dressed. Athanasia watched as she appraised it, but said nothing. She was proud of that bow and no longer regretted throwing her old one at Zanon. If it had not broken, she would still be using it, and even though it had also been made to her size, she had grown a bit taller and stronger since she had received it. The new one was suited to her much better ... wonderfully balanced and the absolutely perfect weight. Of course Vangelis would give her only the best. They weren't as close as she would like them to be, but she knew that he loved her in his own way.
Athanasia dared hope that she and Dorothea would become friends as well as cousins. She loved Taengea and would like to visit it again someday. Perhaps these lessons would become a regular occurance and she would be able to come back every year or so, at least until both of them were married. And if their friendship flourished and their husbands liked to travel, they could still see each other often. Perhaps she was so eager for friendship because she had never met another woman who adored archery as much as she did.
“There is nothing to forgive. And of course you can try it. Maybe we can switch bows while we practice.” The princess nodded when Dorothea asked if she had eaten. She'd had a light breakfast soon after she got up. She tended to eat sparingly before any type of vigorous activity. Being too full seemed to slow down her reflexes, and especially today, she wished nothing to interfere with her competence.
“Yes, I've eaten and I'm eager to get started. I've been looking forward to this ever since I was told about it.” Not knowing where she was going, Athanasia wws content to follow where her companion led. She had not seen an archery range when her party had arrived at the manor, nor had she had time to do any exploring. The morning sun was warm on her head and bare shoulders. As usual in this kingdom, it was going to be a beautiful day.
She glanced over at Dorothea when the other woman asked how she was enjoying Taengea. “Oh yes,” she enthused. “It's a lovely land, and it's so green and fragrant. I love the ocean and have been swimming a few times already. The water is much calmer than it is in Colchis. In fact, Colchis seems quite wild in comparison to Taengea, and much more austere. But it has it's own beauty. Have you ever been there?”
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This character is currently a work in progress.
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Athanasia's smile broadened as she was approached by the woman who was going to give her lessons today. “Good morning, Lady Dorothea,” she replied. The other girl was dressed a bit plainer than she was, and the young princess wondered if she should have worn a simpler peplos. She felt a bit overdressed but it was too late to go back upstairs and change now. And perhaps Dorothea would be impressed that she was able to hit a target while elegantly attired. While sure of her archery skills, she was a bit apprehensive and didn't want to make a total fool of herself.
Dorothea seemed more interested in her bow than she was in the way she was dressed. Athanasia watched as she appraised it, but said nothing. She was proud of that bow and no longer regretted throwing her old one at Zanon. If it had not broken, she would still be using it, and even though it had also been made to her size, she had grown a bit taller and stronger since she had received it. The new one was suited to her much better ... wonderfully balanced and the absolutely perfect weight. Of course Vangelis would give her only the best. They weren't as close as she would like them to be, but she knew that he loved her in his own way.
Athanasia dared hope that she and Dorothea would become friends as well as cousins. She loved Taengea and would like to visit it again someday. Perhaps these lessons would become a regular occurance and she would be able to come back every year or so, at least until both of them were married. And if their friendship flourished and their husbands liked to travel, they could still see each other often. Perhaps she was so eager for friendship because she had never met another woman who adored archery as much as she did.
“There is nothing to forgive. And of course you can try it. Maybe we can switch bows while we practice.” The princess nodded when Dorothea asked if she had eaten. She'd had a light breakfast soon after she got up. She tended to eat sparingly before any type of vigorous activity. Being too full seemed to slow down her reflexes, and especially today, she wished nothing to interfere with her competence.
“Yes, I've eaten and I'm eager to get started. I've been looking forward to this ever since I was told about it.” Not knowing where she was going, Athanasia wws content to follow where her companion led. She had not seen an archery range when her party had arrived at the manor, nor had she had time to do any exploring. The morning sun was warm on her head and bare shoulders. As usual in this kingdom, it was going to be a beautiful day.
She glanced over at Dorothea when the other woman asked how she was enjoying Taengea. “Oh yes,” she enthused. “It's a lovely land, and it's so green and fragrant. I love the ocean and have been swimming a few times already. The water is much calmer than it is in Colchis. In fact, Colchis seems quite wild in comparison to Taengea, and much more austere. But it has it's own beauty. Have you ever been there?”
Athanasia's smile broadened as she was approached by the woman who was going to give her lessons today. “Good morning, Lady Dorothea,” she replied. The other girl was dressed a bit plainer than she was, and the young princess wondered if she should have worn a simpler peplos. She felt a bit overdressed but it was too late to go back upstairs and change now. And perhaps Dorothea would be impressed that she was able to hit a target while elegantly attired. While sure of her archery skills, she was a bit apprehensive and didn't want to make a total fool of herself.
Dorothea seemed more interested in her bow than she was in the way she was dressed. Athanasia watched as she appraised it, but said nothing. She was proud of that bow and no longer regretted throwing her old one at Zanon. If it had not broken, she would still be using it, and even though it had also been made to her size, she had grown a bit taller and stronger since she had received it. The new one was suited to her much better ... wonderfully balanced and the absolutely perfect weight. Of course Vangelis would give her only the best. They weren't as close as she would like them to be, but she knew that he loved her in his own way.
Athanasia dared hope that she and Dorothea would become friends as well as cousins. She loved Taengea and would like to visit it again someday. Perhaps these lessons would become a regular occurance and she would be able to come back every year or so, at least until both of them were married. And if their friendship flourished and their husbands liked to travel, they could still see each other often. Perhaps she was so eager for friendship because she had never met another woman who adored archery as much as she did.
“There is nothing to forgive. And of course you can try it. Maybe we can switch bows while we practice.” The princess nodded when Dorothea asked if she had eaten. She'd had a light breakfast soon after she got up. She tended to eat sparingly before any type of vigorous activity. Being too full seemed to slow down her reflexes, and especially today, she wished nothing to interfere with her competence.
“Yes, I've eaten and I'm eager to get started. I've been looking forward to this ever since I was told about it.” Not knowing where she was going, Athanasia wws content to follow where her companion led. She had not seen an archery range when her party had arrived at the manor, nor had she had time to do any exploring. The morning sun was warm on her head and bare shoulders. As usual in this kingdom, it was going to be a beautiful day.
She glanced over at Dorothea when the other woman asked how she was enjoying Taengea. “Oh yes,” she enthused. “It's a lovely land, and it's so green and fragrant. I love the ocean and have been swimming a few times already. The water is much calmer than it is in Colchis. In fact, Colchis seems quite wild in comparison to Taengea, and much more austere. But it has it's own beauty. Have you ever been there?”
Dorothea was grateful for her cousin’s willingness to let her test her bow. She often felt a strong reluctance when her students – or anyone – asked if they could use her bow, but she felt that she could trust Athanasia. The girl was rumored to be already quite excellent. Not to mention, Doro would see how she shot for herself not long from now. Through that, she felt reasonably comfortable lending her own bow. Besides, it was nice to test other’s instruments. This was a scenario that could befall them in life should they not be around their bows when there was trouble. They might have to borrow another’s.
She gave her cousin a smile as the girl expressed her eagerness to get started. Dorothea too had been looking forward to these lessons. While it was rewarding to teach another to shoot, it would be wonderful to have someone to compete with. It was rare that she faced someone remotely close to her skills. It would be a fun and interesting challenge to see how she might improve upon her cousin’s skills.
“I have as well,” Dorothea replied, as they exited the home and moved closer to the practice courts. The archery range wasn’t far, but it was well out of the way of where others might pass. It had been carefully constructed in such a way that it would nearly be impossible for someone to walk or ride by accidently. They first approached the regular practice area, a few wide sand courts for fighting or swordplay. Behind that was a grove of dense trees with an obvious path leading inward.
She listened intently as her cousin described Taengea. It was lovely to hear about it from another’s perspective. It wasn’t often that Dorothea was able to meet with foreigners. As she wasn’t one to attend court in the capital much, that meant that she had relatively limited exposure. What she knew, she knew from reading books. However, lately, she had the itch to travel more than ever before. “I’ve heard as much about our waters,” she returned, smiling. How lovely it was to swim in them. Perhaps she and her cousin might make a trip down to the ocean after practice. A warm day like today would be perfect for swimming.
“I have not been to Colchis, unfortunately,” she answered. “Though I have read much about it. I hope to go some day. You are lucky to be able to travel so much. Where has been your favorite place to visit so far?”
Soon, they were walking down the path that led to the archery range, trees surrounding them on both sides. When they finally reached the clearing with the targets, they stopped. Behind the targets was a gentle hill, designed to catch any arrows that might go astray. Sometimes the range was set up more like an obstacle course, increasing the difficulty. Today it was set up traditionally, with the intention for simple shooting. Dorothea wanted to see how Athanasia would do before increasing the challenge. “How long have you been shooting for?” she asked, wanting to learn more of her cousin’s experience. “What do you hope to improve during your time with me?”
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Dorothea was grateful for her cousin’s willingness to let her test her bow. She often felt a strong reluctance when her students – or anyone – asked if they could use her bow, but she felt that she could trust Athanasia. The girl was rumored to be already quite excellent. Not to mention, Doro would see how she shot for herself not long from now. Through that, she felt reasonably comfortable lending her own bow. Besides, it was nice to test other’s instruments. This was a scenario that could befall them in life should they not be around their bows when there was trouble. They might have to borrow another’s.
She gave her cousin a smile as the girl expressed her eagerness to get started. Dorothea too had been looking forward to these lessons. While it was rewarding to teach another to shoot, it would be wonderful to have someone to compete with. It was rare that she faced someone remotely close to her skills. It would be a fun and interesting challenge to see how she might improve upon her cousin’s skills.
“I have as well,” Dorothea replied, as they exited the home and moved closer to the practice courts. The archery range wasn’t far, but it was well out of the way of where others might pass. It had been carefully constructed in such a way that it would nearly be impossible for someone to walk or ride by accidently. They first approached the regular practice area, a few wide sand courts for fighting or swordplay. Behind that was a grove of dense trees with an obvious path leading inward.
She listened intently as her cousin described Taengea. It was lovely to hear about it from another’s perspective. It wasn’t often that Dorothea was able to meet with foreigners. As she wasn’t one to attend court in the capital much, that meant that she had relatively limited exposure. What she knew, she knew from reading books. However, lately, she had the itch to travel more than ever before. “I’ve heard as much about our waters,” she returned, smiling. How lovely it was to swim in them. Perhaps she and her cousin might make a trip down to the ocean after practice. A warm day like today would be perfect for swimming.
“I have not been to Colchis, unfortunately,” she answered. “Though I have read much about it. I hope to go some day. You are lucky to be able to travel so much. Where has been your favorite place to visit so far?”
Soon, they were walking down the path that led to the archery range, trees surrounding them on both sides. When they finally reached the clearing with the targets, they stopped. Behind the targets was a gentle hill, designed to catch any arrows that might go astray. Sometimes the range was set up more like an obstacle course, increasing the difficulty. Today it was set up traditionally, with the intention for simple shooting. Dorothea wanted to see how Athanasia would do before increasing the challenge. “How long have you been shooting for?” she asked, wanting to learn more of her cousin’s experience. “What do you hope to improve during your time with me?”
Dorothea was grateful for her cousin’s willingness to let her test her bow. She often felt a strong reluctance when her students – or anyone – asked if they could use her bow, but she felt that she could trust Athanasia. The girl was rumored to be already quite excellent. Not to mention, Doro would see how she shot for herself not long from now. Through that, she felt reasonably comfortable lending her own bow. Besides, it was nice to test other’s instruments. This was a scenario that could befall them in life should they not be around their bows when there was trouble. They might have to borrow another’s.
She gave her cousin a smile as the girl expressed her eagerness to get started. Dorothea too had been looking forward to these lessons. While it was rewarding to teach another to shoot, it would be wonderful to have someone to compete with. It was rare that she faced someone remotely close to her skills. It would be a fun and interesting challenge to see how she might improve upon her cousin’s skills.
“I have as well,” Dorothea replied, as they exited the home and moved closer to the practice courts. The archery range wasn’t far, but it was well out of the way of where others might pass. It had been carefully constructed in such a way that it would nearly be impossible for someone to walk or ride by accidently. They first approached the regular practice area, a few wide sand courts for fighting or swordplay. Behind that was a grove of dense trees with an obvious path leading inward.
She listened intently as her cousin described Taengea. It was lovely to hear about it from another’s perspective. It wasn’t often that Dorothea was able to meet with foreigners. As she wasn’t one to attend court in the capital much, that meant that she had relatively limited exposure. What she knew, she knew from reading books. However, lately, she had the itch to travel more than ever before. “I’ve heard as much about our waters,” she returned, smiling. How lovely it was to swim in them. Perhaps she and her cousin might make a trip down to the ocean after practice. A warm day like today would be perfect for swimming.
“I have not been to Colchis, unfortunately,” she answered. “Though I have read much about it. I hope to go some day. You are lucky to be able to travel so much. Where has been your favorite place to visit so far?”
Soon, they were walking down the path that led to the archery range, trees surrounding them on both sides. When they finally reached the clearing with the targets, they stopped. Behind the targets was a gentle hill, designed to catch any arrows that might go astray. Sometimes the range was set up more like an obstacle course, increasing the difficulty. Today it was set up traditionally, with the intention for simple shooting. Dorothea wanted to see how Athanasia would do before increasing the challenge. “How long have you been shooting for?” she asked, wanting to learn more of her cousin’s experience. “What do you hope to improve during your time with me?”
Athanasia had rarely used any bow but her own, so it would be interesting to see how well she did with Dorothea’s. She’d only had the new one for a couple of months and she was still becoming accustomed to it. It had been fashioned to her height and weight, which had changed a bit since she had received her former weapon. All of her bows had been customized for her, and she still had them all in a cupboard in her room. Sometimes she took them out and entertained herself with them memories of taught by her brothers or practicing with them. The smallest one looked like a toy to her now. How small she had been then. She recalled attempting to pick up one of her brother’s bows when she was about five. It was far too heavy for her. Which brother had it belonged to? She didn’t remember, but she knew it wasn’t Vangelis, as he had been away with the military at that time.
She also knew the importance of being able to use a borrowed bow. Though she had not needed to do so yet, she sometimes found herself embroiled in trouble during her forbidden visits to the lower city in disguise. Usually, she was able to get herself out of bar brawls using just her fists. Her brothers would be proud if they knew how good she was at hand-to-hand combat. But if she faced a larger threat, she might need to grab a bow. She wouldn’t be able to command that somebody relinquish theirs or she would give her true identity away. And then she’d be in hot water with her parents.
Her mind returned to the present as they left the house and headed to the archery range. Athanasia was glad that Dorothea was as enthusiastic about their lesson as she was. In truth, she hadn’t been thrilled when she first found out about it. She had thought that she was good enough that she didn’t need to be tutored anymore, but she had discovered otherwise when she had visited the White Temple and met the priestess Aedea. The princess still had a lot to learn and she was sure that she would be a better archer tomorrow than she was today, thanks to Dorothea’s expertise.
Athanasia wasn’t surprised that her cousin had not been to Colchis. A noble girl rarely left her homeland unless she was married to a man from another kingdom. Dorothea was only a few years older than she was, and Athanasia would probably have remembered if she had visited. Her family would most likely have stayed with them. “You can visit me,” she said, grinning at her companion. “If your parents don’t mind. You can stay with us and I can show you around.”
As for other places she had traveled to: “I’ve never been anywhere besides Colchis and Taengea. I don’t really have a favorite province. They are all so beautiful and so different. I should like to see all of them someday. I definitely want to return.”
When they reached the archery range, Athanasia observed the area with interest. It looked similar to the one they had at home, so she shouldn’t have any problem accustoming herself to this new place. The targets were familiar to her as well. If she made a fool of herself, she wouldn’t be able to blame her surroundings. But I won’t embarrass myself, she resolved. The young princess felt uncharacteristically nervous for some reason. She’d had that feeling before at the White Temple, but it had eventually faded.
Athanasia tilted her head to the side. “My brothers began to teach me as soon as I was able to hold a bow. I think I was about four. I want to prove my skills in general. Every tip you can give me will be appreciated.” One eyebrow quirked upward. “I’ve heard that you are divinely gifted.”
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Athanasia had rarely used any bow but her own, so it would be interesting to see how well she did with Dorothea’s. She’d only had the new one for a couple of months and she was still becoming accustomed to it. It had been fashioned to her height and weight, which had changed a bit since she had received her former weapon. All of her bows had been customized for her, and she still had them all in a cupboard in her room. Sometimes she took them out and entertained herself with them memories of taught by her brothers or practicing with them. The smallest one looked like a toy to her now. How small she had been then. She recalled attempting to pick up one of her brother’s bows when she was about five. It was far too heavy for her. Which brother had it belonged to? She didn’t remember, but she knew it wasn’t Vangelis, as he had been away with the military at that time.
She also knew the importance of being able to use a borrowed bow. Though she had not needed to do so yet, she sometimes found herself embroiled in trouble during her forbidden visits to the lower city in disguise. Usually, she was able to get herself out of bar brawls using just her fists. Her brothers would be proud if they knew how good she was at hand-to-hand combat. But if she faced a larger threat, she might need to grab a bow. She wouldn’t be able to command that somebody relinquish theirs or she would give her true identity away. And then she’d be in hot water with her parents.
Her mind returned to the present as they left the house and headed to the archery range. Athanasia was glad that Dorothea was as enthusiastic about their lesson as she was. In truth, she hadn’t been thrilled when she first found out about it. She had thought that she was good enough that she didn’t need to be tutored anymore, but she had discovered otherwise when she had visited the White Temple and met the priestess Aedea. The princess still had a lot to learn and she was sure that she would be a better archer tomorrow than she was today, thanks to Dorothea’s expertise.
Athanasia wasn’t surprised that her cousin had not been to Colchis. A noble girl rarely left her homeland unless she was married to a man from another kingdom. Dorothea was only a few years older than she was, and Athanasia would probably have remembered if she had visited. Her family would most likely have stayed with them. “You can visit me,” she said, grinning at her companion. “If your parents don’t mind. You can stay with us and I can show you around.”
As for other places she had traveled to: “I’ve never been anywhere besides Colchis and Taengea. I don’t really have a favorite province. They are all so beautiful and so different. I should like to see all of them someday. I definitely want to return.”
When they reached the archery range, Athanasia observed the area with interest. It looked similar to the one they had at home, so she shouldn’t have any problem accustoming herself to this new place. The targets were familiar to her as well. If she made a fool of herself, she wouldn’t be able to blame her surroundings. But I won’t embarrass myself, she resolved. The young princess felt uncharacteristically nervous for some reason. She’d had that feeling before at the White Temple, but it had eventually faded.
Athanasia tilted her head to the side. “My brothers began to teach me as soon as I was able to hold a bow. I think I was about four. I want to prove my skills in general. Every tip you can give me will be appreciated.” One eyebrow quirked upward. “I’ve heard that you are divinely gifted.”
Athanasia had rarely used any bow but her own, so it would be interesting to see how well she did with Dorothea’s. She’d only had the new one for a couple of months and she was still becoming accustomed to it. It had been fashioned to her height and weight, which had changed a bit since she had received her former weapon. All of her bows had been customized for her, and she still had them all in a cupboard in her room. Sometimes she took them out and entertained herself with them memories of taught by her brothers or practicing with them. The smallest one looked like a toy to her now. How small she had been then. She recalled attempting to pick up one of her brother’s bows when she was about five. It was far too heavy for her. Which brother had it belonged to? She didn’t remember, but she knew it wasn’t Vangelis, as he had been away with the military at that time.
She also knew the importance of being able to use a borrowed bow. Though she had not needed to do so yet, she sometimes found herself embroiled in trouble during her forbidden visits to the lower city in disguise. Usually, she was able to get herself out of bar brawls using just her fists. Her brothers would be proud if they knew how good she was at hand-to-hand combat. But if she faced a larger threat, she might need to grab a bow. She wouldn’t be able to command that somebody relinquish theirs or she would give her true identity away. And then she’d be in hot water with her parents.
Her mind returned to the present as they left the house and headed to the archery range. Athanasia was glad that Dorothea was as enthusiastic about their lesson as she was. In truth, she hadn’t been thrilled when she first found out about it. She had thought that she was good enough that she didn’t need to be tutored anymore, but she had discovered otherwise when she had visited the White Temple and met the priestess Aedea. The princess still had a lot to learn and she was sure that she would be a better archer tomorrow than she was today, thanks to Dorothea’s expertise.
Athanasia wasn’t surprised that her cousin had not been to Colchis. A noble girl rarely left her homeland unless she was married to a man from another kingdom. Dorothea was only a few years older than she was, and Athanasia would probably have remembered if she had visited. Her family would most likely have stayed with them. “You can visit me,” she said, grinning at her companion. “If your parents don’t mind. You can stay with us and I can show you around.”
As for other places she had traveled to: “I’ve never been anywhere besides Colchis and Taengea. I don’t really have a favorite province. They are all so beautiful and so different. I should like to see all of them someday. I definitely want to return.”
When they reached the archery range, Athanasia observed the area with interest. It looked similar to the one they had at home, so she shouldn’t have any problem accustoming herself to this new place. The targets were familiar to her as well. If she made a fool of herself, she wouldn’t be able to blame her surroundings. But I won’t embarrass myself, she resolved. The young princess felt uncharacteristically nervous for some reason. She’d had that feeling before at the White Temple, but it had eventually faded.
Athanasia tilted her head to the side. “My brothers began to teach me as soon as I was able to hold a bow. I think I was about four. I want to prove my skills in general. Every tip you can give me will be appreciated.” One eyebrow quirked upward. “I’ve heard that you are divinely gifted.”
Dorothea smiled at her young cousin’s offer to let her stay with her upon her visit. While she was more than prepared to start traveling, her father had entirely different plans in mind. He would rather have her find a suitable husband and spend her life attached to him. And if that plan couldn’t work, she was sure the backup was to have her by his side for the rest of his life. Although Dorothea loved her father dearly and would do anything for him, she still desperately wanted to travel. She wanted to explore all of the places that she read about in her books. She wanted to practice all of the languages that she had learned from her Uncle Dorotheos. Wouldn’t that be nice? Dorothea knew she was dreaming, but they were nice dreams nonetheless.
“Thank you for the offer,” she smiled. “Unfortunately, my father is not so fond of travel and he isn’t likely to let me go on my own.” She paused, then added, “But if that’s to change, I will gladly take you up on your offer.
“I read so much of other places, it would be nice to finally visit one,” she admitted. “I’m very jealous of all your travels, even if it’s only between Colchis and Taengea.”
Dorothea listened carefully to what Athanasia said she would like to learn. She wanted to make sure that her students got what they wanted out of their lessons with her. Especially the more gifted students. The beginners were easier. They had never shot anything before, so lessons were all about learning to shoot. Improvements came rapidly and expectations were usually low. Students who had been practicing since they were four were a different story. Athanasia was no doubt as used to her bow as Dorothea was used to hers. If she loved the sport as much Doro did, then she would have practiced a great deal. Dorothea wanted to ensure that Athanasia would leave their lessons satisfied, even if there were only small improvements to make.
It was often she dealt with the question that her cousin posed. Dorothea didn’t like to brag or boast about her gift. She paid tribute to the gods and remembered to thank them for what they gave to her every time. However, that didn’t mean that she hadn’t put in work to be as good as she was. She thought she had thoroughly earned her reputation. “I’ve heard the same,” she replied, winking, an amused smile on her face. “I’ve also spent years practicing my gift so that the gods don’t think I’ve gone to waste.” That was the extent she would say on that. Let the girl decide what she thought after seeing Dorothea shoot.
“What do you perceive your weaknesses to be?” she asked, curious. It was always interesting to see what her students thought was holding them back from perfection. Sometimes they were right, other times they were missing something completely.
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Dorothea smiled at her young cousin’s offer to let her stay with her upon her visit. While she was more than prepared to start traveling, her father had entirely different plans in mind. He would rather have her find a suitable husband and spend her life attached to him. And if that plan couldn’t work, she was sure the backup was to have her by his side for the rest of his life. Although Dorothea loved her father dearly and would do anything for him, she still desperately wanted to travel. She wanted to explore all of the places that she read about in her books. She wanted to practice all of the languages that she had learned from her Uncle Dorotheos. Wouldn’t that be nice? Dorothea knew she was dreaming, but they were nice dreams nonetheless.
“Thank you for the offer,” she smiled. “Unfortunately, my father is not so fond of travel and he isn’t likely to let me go on my own.” She paused, then added, “But if that’s to change, I will gladly take you up on your offer.
“I read so much of other places, it would be nice to finally visit one,” she admitted. “I’m very jealous of all your travels, even if it’s only between Colchis and Taengea.”
Dorothea listened carefully to what Athanasia said she would like to learn. She wanted to make sure that her students got what they wanted out of their lessons with her. Especially the more gifted students. The beginners were easier. They had never shot anything before, so lessons were all about learning to shoot. Improvements came rapidly and expectations were usually low. Students who had been practicing since they were four were a different story. Athanasia was no doubt as used to her bow as Dorothea was used to hers. If she loved the sport as much Doro did, then she would have practiced a great deal. Dorothea wanted to ensure that Athanasia would leave their lessons satisfied, even if there were only small improvements to make.
It was often she dealt with the question that her cousin posed. Dorothea didn’t like to brag or boast about her gift. She paid tribute to the gods and remembered to thank them for what they gave to her every time. However, that didn’t mean that she hadn’t put in work to be as good as she was. She thought she had thoroughly earned her reputation. “I’ve heard the same,” she replied, winking, an amused smile on her face. “I’ve also spent years practicing my gift so that the gods don’t think I’ve gone to waste.” That was the extent she would say on that. Let the girl decide what she thought after seeing Dorothea shoot.
“What do you perceive your weaknesses to be?” she asked, curious. It was always interesting to see what her students thought was holding them back from perfection. Sometimes they were right, other times they were missing something completely.
Dorothea smiled at her young cousin’s offer to let her stay with her upon her visit. While she was more than prepared to start traveling, her father had entirely different plans in mind. He would rather have her find a suitable husband and spend her life attached to him. And if that plan couldn’t work, she was sure the backup was to have her by his side for the rest of his life. Although Dorothea loved her father dearly and would do anything for him, she still desperately wanted to travel. She wanted to explore all of the places that she read about in her books. She wanted to practice all of the languages that she had learned from her Uncle Dorotheos. Wouldn’t that be nice? Dorothea knew she was dreaming, but they were nice dreams nonetheless.
“Thank you for the offer,” she smiled. “Unfortunately, my father is not so fond of travel and he isn’t likely to let me go on my own.” She paused, then added, “But if that’s to change, I will gladly take you up on your offer.
“I read so much of other places, it would be nice to finally visit one,” she admitted. “I’m very jealous of all your travels, even if it’s only between Colchis and Taengea.”
Dorothea listened carefully to what Athanasia said she would like to learn. She wanted to make sure that her students got what they wanted out of their lessons with her. Especially the more gifted students. The beginners were easier. They had never shot anything before, so lessons were all about learning to shoot. Improvements came rapidly and expectations were usually low. Students who had been practicing since they were four were a different story. Athanasia was no doubt as used to her bow as Dorothea was used to hers. If she loved the sport as much Doro did, then she would have practiced a great deal. Dorothea wanted to ensure that Athanasia would leave their lessons satisfied, even if there were only small improvements to make.
It was often she dealt with the question that her cousin posed. Dorothea didn’t like to brag or boast about her gift. She paid tribute to the gods and remembered to thank them for what they gave to her every time. However, that didn’t mean that she hadn’t put in work to be as good as she was. She thought she had thoroughly earned her reputation. “I’ve heard the same,” she replied, winking, an amused smile on her face. “I’ve also spent years practicing my gift so that the gods don’t think I’ve gone to waste.” That was the extent she would say on that. Let the girl decide what she thought after seeing Dorothea shoot.
“What do you perceive your weaknesses to be?” she asked, curious. It was always interesting to see what her students thought was holding them back from perfection. Sometimes they were right, other times they were missing something completely.
Athanasia wondered why Dorothea’s father didn’t like to travel. Was he so busy with his responsibilities that he had no time for himself? Everyone needed a break now and then. It seemed as if he would want to visit his sister and her family. Queen Yanni had not accompanied them on this trip. Surely he was curious about her. Or was there no love lost between the two of them? Not all siblings were close. Maybe Lord Gavriil was jealous because his sister had become a Queen?
Athanasia was traveling in the company of her elder brother. Why couldn’t Dorothea travel with a member of her own family or even with a friend? Maybe her father wanted her to marry within Taengea and was afraid that she would find a suitable match in Colchis instead? Perhaps he wanted to keep all of his children close. As a woman grown, her cousin should be able to have a say in her own life. Athanasia didn’t enjoy that privilege, but she was a princess and royals were held to stricter standards.
“Maybe he’ll change his mind,” she remarked. It did sound as if Dorothea longed to visit the places she had read about in books. An adventurous spirit was something else the cousins had in common. Athanasia felt a bit guilty about enjoying an opportunity that Dorothea craved, particularly as she hadn’t been too enthusiastic about the trip in the first place. Oddly enough, it was this lesson she had dreaded most and now she found herself looking forward to it.
Her cousin was not arrogant about her prowess with a bow and seemed genuinely happy to meet another woman who shared her interest. Female archers were not as prevalent in Taengea as in Colchis, though of course some families wouldn’t mind if their daughters learned how to hunt. They just weren’t allowed in the military. Athanasia sometimes wondered if she would have chosen to fight for her kingdom if she had been born a commoner or if she would have joined the Cypress Sisterhood.
Dorothea didn’t deny that she was divinely gifted, but she didn’t brag about it, claiming that she had worked hard to please the gods. So she knew for certain that she was blessed? How did one find that out? Had Athena visited her in a dream and told her when she was a child? Athanasia would have liked to ask, but she didn’t want to put her cousin on the spot.
Her weaknesses? The young princess cocked her head as she contemplated the question. “In truth, I don’t know,” she finally answered. She had usually been praised, not criticized. “You would probably be a better judge of that.” She looked out over the targets. “Shall I shoot? I promise I shall not be angry no matter what you tell me.”
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Athanasia wondered why Dorothea’s father didn’t like to travel. Was he so busy with his responsibilities that he had no time for himself? Everyone needed a break now and then. It seemed as if he would want to visit his sister and her family. Queen Yanni had not accompanied them on this trip. Surely he was curious about her. Or was there no love lost between the two of them? Not all siblings were close. Maybe Lord Gavriil was jealous because his sister had become a Queen?
Athanasia was traveling in the company of her elder brother. Why couldn’t Dorothea travel with a member of her own family or even with a friend? Maybe her father wanted her to marry within Taengea and was afraid that she would find a suitable match in Colchis instead? Perhaps he wanted to keep all of his children close. As a woman grown, her cousin should be able to have a say in her own life. Athanasia didn’t enjoy that privilege, but she was a princess and royals were held to stricter standards.
“Maybe he’ll change his mind,” she remarked. It did sound as if Dorothea longed to visit the places she had read about in books. An adventurous spirit was something else the cousins had in common. Athanasia felt a bit guilty about enjoying an opportunity that Dorothea craved, particularly as she hadn’t been too enthusiastic about the trip in the first place. Oddly enough, it was this lesson she had dreaded most and now she found herself looking forward to it.
Her cousin was not arrogant about her prowess with a bow and seemed genuinely happy to meet another woman who shared her interest. Female archers were not as prevalent in Taengea as in Colchis, though of course some families wouldn’t mind if their daughters learned how to hunt. They just weren’t allowed in the military. Athanasia sometimes wondered if she would have chosen to fight for her kingdom if she had been born a commoner or if she would have joined the Cypress Sisterhood.
Dorothea didn’t deny that she was divinely gifted, but she didn’t brag about it, claiming that she had worked hard to please the gods. So she knew for certain that she was blessed? How did one find that out? Had Athena visited her in a dream and told her when she was a child? Athanasia would have liked to ask, but she didn’t want to put her cousin on the spot.
Her weaknesses? The young princess cocked her head as she contemplated the question. “In truth, I don’t know,” she finally answered. She had usually been praised, not criticized. “You would probably be a better judge of that.” She looked out over the targets. “Shall I shoot? I promise I shall not be angry no matter what you tell me.”
Athanasia wondered why Dorothea’s father didn’t like to travel. Was he so busy with his responsibilities that he had no time for himself? Everyone needed a break now and then. It seemed as if he would want to visit his sister and her family. Queen Yanni had not accompanied them on this trip. Surely he was curious about her. Or was there no love lost between the two of them? Not all siblings were close. Maybe Lord Gavriil was jealous because his sister had become a Queen?
Athanasia was traveling in the company of her elder brother. Why couldn’t Dorothea travel with a member of her own family or even with a friend? Maybe her father wanted her to marry within Taengea and was afraid that she would find a suitable match in Colchis instead? Perhaps he wanted to keep all of his children close. As a woman grown, her cousin should be able to have a say in her own life. Athanasia didn’t enjoy that privilege, but she was a princess and royals were held to stricter standards.
“Maybe he’ll change his mind,” she remarked. It did sound as if Dorothea longed to visit the places she had read about in books. An adventurous spirit was something else the cousins had in common. Athanasia felt a bit guilty about enjoying an opportunity that Dorothea craved, particularly as she hadn’t been too enthusiastic about the trip in the first place. Oddly enough, it was this lesson she had dreaded most and now she found herself looking forward to it.
Her cousin was not arrogant about her prowess with a bow and seemed genuinely happy to meet another woman who shared her interest. Female archers were not as prevalent in Taengea as in Colchis, though of course some families wouldn’t mind if their daughters learned how to hunt. They just weren’t allowed in the military. Athanasia sometimes wondered if she would have chosen to fight for her kingdom if she had been born a commoner or if she would have joined the Cypress Sisterhood.
Dorothea didn’t deny that she was divinely gifted, but she didn’t brag about it, claiming that she had worked hard to please the gods. So she knew for certain that she was blessed? How did one find that out? Had Athena visited her in a dream and told her when she was a child? Athanasia would have liked to ask, but she didn’t want to put her cousin on the spot.
Her weaknesses? The young princess cocked her head as she contemplated the question. “In truth, I don’t know,” she finally answered. She had usually been praised, not criticized. “You would probably be a better judge of that.” She looked out over the targets. “Shall I shoot? I promise I shall not be angry no matter what you tell me.”
Dorothea was sure that she would have the chance to travel someday, with or without Gavriil’s permission. The older she got and the more she learned, the more she was interested in making a travel a reality for her. She was beginning to realize that her father would never be happy unless she was home at his side. The thought of letting her go was not something he would easily relish. Dorothea thought that might even be true for the marriage he wanted for her. He was going to have a difficult time letting her go no matter what. She smiled and nodded at Athanasia’s suggestion that he might change his mind. That would certainly be the easiest way around everything.
The young woman was relieved that her cousin didn’t press further about her blessing from the gods. It wasn’t something she loved to talk about, though she did feel thankful to the gods. Dorothea just felt that she had worked too hard over the years to explain everything away to them. Certainly even with a blessing she wouldn’t possess the skills she had without practice. There was plenty of skill to archery, more than simply notching a bow and shooting.
When her cousin admitted to not being sure of her own weakness, Dorothea wasn’t surprised. Archers couldn’t always tell what their problems were. It often took someone else watching to note something. That was what Dorothea was here to do today. Then they could begin to work on improvement.
Dorothea smiled when Athanasia promised not to become mad. She wondered how often that happened or if people were too afraid to critique a princess. Dorothea could promise that she was not afraid—even if Athanasia was a princess, she was still her pupil. Those who came to study with her, no matter what their rank, understood that in this area she was the expert. She hoped that her cousin would have realized that too.
“Of course,” Dorothea replied, both acknowledging the promise not to be angry and the question of shooting. “I am always fair with my students. You will get my honest opinion, both good and areas of improvement. Don’t fear.”
The shooting area was ready for a variety of scenarios. First, she would test Athanasia at the standard distance for shooting. Then, she would ask her to shoot from a variety of lengths and with different circumstances. Dorothea explained all of this to her pupil, waiting for any questions. Once Asia was ready, she stood back, to get a good look as the girl shot. She had heard the princess was a great shooter and she was excited to see how well the girl did.
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Dorothea was sure that she would have the chance to travel someday, with or without Gavriil’s permission. The older she got and the more she learned, the more she was interested in making a travel a reality for her. She was beginning to realize that her father would never be happy unless she was home at his side. The thought of letting her go was not something he would easily relish. Dorothea thought that might even be true for the marriage he wanted for her. He was going to have a difficult time letting her go no matter what. She smiled and nodded at Athanasia’s suggestion that he might change his mind. That would certainly be the easiest way around everything.
The young woman was relieved that her cousin didn’t press further about her blessing from the gods. It wasn’t something she loved to talk about, though she did feel thankful to the gods. Dorothea just felt that she had worked too hard over the years to explain everything away to them. Certainly even with a blessing she wouldn’t possess the skills she had without practice. There was plenty of skill to archery, more than simply notching a bow and shooting.
When her cousin admitted to not being sure of her own weakness, Dorothea wasn’t surprised. Archers couldn’t always tell what their problems were. It often took someone else watching to note something. That was what Dorothea was here to do today. Then they could begin to work on improvement.
Dorothea smiled when Athanasia promised not to become mad. She wondered how often that happened or if people were too afraid to critique a princess. Dorothea could promise that she was not afraid—even if Athanasia was a princess, she was still her pupil. Those who came to study with her, no matter what their rank, understood that in this area she was the expert. She hoped that her cousin would have realized that too.
“Of course,” Dorothea replied, both acknowledging the promise not to be angry and the question of shooting. “I am always fair with my students. You will get my honest opinion, both good and areas of improvement. Don’t fear.”
The shooting area was ready for a variety of scenarios. First, she would test Athanasia at the standard distance for shooting. Then, she would ask her to shoot from a variety of lengths and with different circumstances. Dorothea explained all of this to her pupil, waiting for any questions. Once Asia was ready, she stood back, to get a good look as the girl shot. She had heard the princess was a great shooter and she was excited to see how well the girl did.
Dorothea was sure that she would have the chance to travel someday, with or without Gavriil’s permission. The older she got and the more she learned, the more she was interested in making a travel a reality for her. She was beginning to realize that her father would never be happy unless she was home at his side. The thought of letting her go was not something he would easily relish. Dorothea thought that might even be true for the marriage he wanted for her. He was going to have a difficult time letting her go no matter what. She smiled and nodded at Athanasia’s suggestion that he might change his mind. That would certainly be the easiest way around everything.
The young woman was relieved that her cousin didn’t press further about her blessing from the gods. It wasn’t something she loved to talk about, though she did feel thankful to the gods. Dorothea just felt that she had worked too hard over the years to explain everything away to them. Certainly even with a blessing she wouldn’t possess the skills she had without practice. There was plenty of skill to archery, more than simply notching a bow and shooting.
When her cousin admitted to not being sure of her own weakness, Dorothea wasn’t surprised. Archers couldn’t always tell what their problems were. It often took someone else watching to note something. That was what Dorothea was here to do today. Then they could begin to work on improvement.
Dorothea smiled when Athanasia promised not to become mad. She wondered how often that happened or if people were too afraid to critique a princess. Dorothea could promise that she was not afraid—even if Athanasia was a princess, she was still her pupil. Those who came to study with her, no matter what their rank, understood that in this area she was the expert. She hoped that her cousin would have realized that too.
“Of course,” Dorothea replied, both acknowledging the promise not to be angry and the question of shooting. “I am always fair with my students. You will get my honest opinion, both good and areas of improvement. Don’t fear.”
The shooting area was ready for a variety of scenarios. First, she would test Athanasia at the standard distance for shooting. Then, she would ask her to shoot from a variety of lengths and with different circumstances. Dorothea explained all of this to her pupil, waiting for any questions. Once Asia was ready, she stood back, to get a good look as the girl shot. She had heard the princess was a great shooter and she was excited to see how well the girl did.
Athanasia saw no reason why Dorothea’s father would refuse to let her visit the royal family. As a child, she had thought Uncle Gavriil was rather scary, but since she had started visiting taverns in disguise, she had met people who were a lot more frightening than he. She was a Kotas and was not supposed to be afraid of anybody or anything. The young princess didn’t relish approaching him, but perhaps that would be the best way to get him to allow Dorothea to travel to Colchis. She didn’t know her sister well, but Alexa would be welcome too. Maybe she would hit it off with Essa. The two younger girls were around the same age.
Yes, that was what she would do as soon as the opportunity presented itself. Uncle Gavril would at least listen to the daughter of his King. Perhaps he would even see advantages in allowing his own daughters to visit the capitol. First, though, she needed to ask Vangelis what he thought. Athanasia couldn’t make a decision as big as that one without the approval of her brother or her parents. In fact, Vang may have an easier time convincing their uncle to let his daughters travel. Men, she had discovered to her chagrin, were more likely to listen to advice from other men. Some of them didn’t take women seriously at all, even if they were princesses.
If she had known Dorothea’s thoughts, Athanasia would have told her that her assumption was correct. Most courtiers always agreed with her because they didn’t want to get on the bad side of the royal family. As a mischievous little girl, she had sometimes said ridiculous things just to test them. Instead of correcting her, they smiled and said ‘Yes, Your Highness,’ no matter how preposterous her statement. She had long since grown out of that little game, but the result of everything she said was just the same. Only her cousin Imeeya was brave enough to contradict her.
“That’s what I need,” the princess answered. Her brothers gave her their honest opinions about her archery and so had the priestess she had met in the White Temple. Nobody else had dared.
Dorothea explained what she was going to ask her to do, and Athanasia nodded. She wouldn’t have to use the trick Aedea had taught her at the standard distance. Smiling at her cousin, she assumed her usual position, pulled an arrow from her quiver, nocked it, and aimed. In less that two seconds she released the arrow and it hit the target right in the center.
Yes! Lowering her arrow, she turned back to Dorothea. “What do you think?” she asked.
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Athanasia saw no reason why Dorothea’s father would refuse to let her visit the royal family. As a child, she had thought Uncle Gavriil was rather scary, but since she had started visiting taverns in disguise, she had met people who were a lot more frightening than he. She was a Kotas and was not supposed to be afraid of anybody or anything. The young princess didn’t relish approaching him, but perhaps that would be the best way to get him to allow Dorothea to travel to Colchis. She didn’t know her sister well, but Alexa would be welcome too. Maybe she would hit it off with Essa. The two younger girls were around the same age.
Yes, that was what she would do as soon as the opportunity presented itself. Uncle Gavril would at least listen to the daughter of his King. Perhaps he would even see advantages in allowing his own daughters to visit the capitol. First, though, she needed to ask Vangelis what he thought. Athanasia couldn’t make a decision as big as that one without the approval of her brother or her parents. In fact, Vang may have an easier time convincing their uncle to let his daughters travel. Men, she had discovered to her chagrin, were more likely to listen to advice from other men. Some of them didn’t take women seriously at all, even if they were princesses.
If she had known Dorothea’s thoughts, Athanasia would have told her that her assumption was correct. Most courtiers always agreed with her because they didn’t want to get on the bad side of the royal family. As a mischievous little girl, she had sometimes said ridiculous things just to test them. Instead of correcting her, they smiled and said ‘Yes, Your Highness,’ no matter how preposterous her statement. She had long since grown out of that little game, but the result of everything she said was just the same. Only her cousin Imeeya was brave enough to contradict her.
“That’s what I need,” the princess answered. Her brothers gave her their honest opinions about her archery and so had the priestess she had met in the White Temple. Nobody else had dared.
Dorothea explained what she was going to ask her to do, and Athanasia nodded. She wouldn’t have to use the trick Aedea had taught her at the standard distance. Smiling at her cousin, she assumed her usual position, pulled an arrow from her quiver, nocked it, and aimed. In less that two seconds she released the arrow and it hit the target right in the center.
Yes! Lowering her arrow, she turned back to Dorothea. “What do you think?” she asked.
Athanasia saw no reason why Dorothea’s father would refuse to let her visit the royal family. As a child, she had thought Uncle Gavriil was rather scary, but since she had started visiting taverns in disguise, she had met people who were a lot more frightening than he. She was a Kotas and was not supposed to be afraid of anybody or anything. The young princess didn’t relish approaching him, but perhaps that would be the best way to get him to allow Dorothea to travel to Colchis. She didn’t know her sister well, but Alexa would be welcome too. Maybe she would hit it off with Essa. The two younger girls were around the same age.
Yes, that was what she would do as soon as the opportunity presented itself. Uncle Gavril would at least listen to the daughter of his King. Perhaps he would even see advantages in allowing his own daughters to visit the capitol. First, though, she needed to ask Vangelis what he thought. Athanasia couldn’t make a decision as big as that one without the approval of her brother or her parents. In fact, Vang may have an easier time convincing their uncle to let his daughters travel. Men, she had discovered to her chagrin, were more likely to listen to advice from other men. Some of them didn’t take women seriously at all, even if they were princesses.
If she had known Dorothea’s thoughts, Athanasia would have told her that her assumption was correct. Most courtiers always agreed with her because they didn’t want to get on the bad side of the royal family. As a mischievous little girl, she had sometimes said ridiculous things just to test them. Instead of correcting her, they smiled and said ‘Yes, Your Highness,’ no matter how preposterous her statement. She had long since grown out of that little game, but the result of everything she said was just the same. Only her cousin Imeeya was brave enough to contradict her.
“That’s what I need,” the princess answered. Her brothers gave her their honest opinions about her archery and so had the priestess she had met in the White Temple. Nobody else had dared.
Dorothea explained what she was going to ask her to do, and Athanasia nodded. She wouldn’t have to use the trick Aedea had taught her at the standard distance. Smiling at her cousin, she assumed her usual position, pulled an arrow from her quiver, nocked it, and aimed. In less that two seconds she released the arrow and it hit the target right in the center.
Yes! Lowering her arrow, she turned back to Dorothea. “What do you think?” she asked.
If there was one thing that Dorothea was proud of, it was her ability to assess and give honest feedback. Archery had been something she had been practicing in since she was young and over the years her skills had become impeccable. She never seemed to miss nor have an arrow fly in an unintended direction. The times she had been dissatisfied with her performance had been when she was uncertain how or where to shoot. Uncertainty was a foolish and even dangerous attribute held by archers and with time she had trained it out of herself. Yet it was often what plagued others. And so, she had always had to be very careful when it came to giving feedback. Some might be upset by the truth, even if it was what they needed to improve. Dorothea did not want to instill false confidence, but did not want to discourage so much that it became a distraction. There was a fine line to walk there and she did well with it for the most part.
This would be no different, for all her pupil was both a royal and her cousin. When Dorothea promised to give her honest opinion, she meant it. Yet, she knew already that she would not be harsh. She also knew that Asia had been training for many years, so Dorothea would have to be more precise with her feedback. She did not come all this way to be told something that any archery teacher could explain.
Dorothea took a step back and watched as her cousin shot, her arrow landing in the center of the target. It was well placed, though Dorothea did not expect anything different from the princess. She had been training for many years. If she could not hit the center of the target from a basic distance, then Dorothea would have more work to do than she anticipated.
However, she let none of her thoughts show, offering her cousin a genuine smile. She was pleased after all to see how Asia could shoot. “Well done,” she offered. “You have good form and your aim is true. I would like to see how you shoot from further away and with some obstacles. Perhaps later we can try from horseback as well. Do you often hunt or shoot while riding?” Now, that would be an interesting lesson. Dorothea had never taught anyone to shoot from horseback before. That was too advanced for most of her students. Perhaps Asia would finally be the person to practice with.
Before she got too far ahead of herself, Dorothea returned to the practice at hand. “Why don’t you try from a farther length? Try and shoot in the center of the three different targets.” She gestured to the three targets that stood several feet apart from the left to the right. They were staggered as well, so asking Asia to move back several feet would make each one a different challenge.
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If there was one thing that Dorothea was proud of, it was her ability to assess and give honest feedback. Archery had been something she had been practicing in since she was young and over the years her skills had become impeccable. She never seemed to miss nor have an arrow fly in an unintended direction. The times she had been dissatisfied with her performance had been when she was uncertain how or where to shoot. Uncertainty was a foolish and even dangerous attribute held by archers and with time she had trained it out of herself. Yet it was often what plagued others. And so, she had always had to be very careful when it came to giving feedback. Some might be upset by the truth, even if it was what they needed to improve. Dorothea did not want to instill false confidence, but did not want to discourage so much that it became a distraction. There was a fine line to walk there and she did well with it for the most part.
This would be no different, for all her pupil was both a royal and her cousin. When Dorothea promised to give her honest opinion, she meant it. Yet, she knew already that she would not be harsh. She also knew that Asia had been training for many years, so Dorothea would have to be more precise with her feedback. She did not come all this way to be told something that any archery teacher could explain.
Dorothea took a step back and watched as her cousin shot, her arrow landing in the center of the target. It was well placed, though Dorothea did not expect anything different from the princess. She had been training for many years. If she could not hit the center of the target from a basic distance, then Dorothea would have more work to do than she anticipated.
However, she let none of her thoughts show, offering her cousin a genuine smile. She was pleased after all to see how Asia could shoot. “Well done,” she offered. “You have good form and your aim is true. I would like to see how you shoot from further away and with some obstacles. Perhaps later we can try from horseback as well. Do you often hunt or shoot while riding?” Now, that would be an interesting lesson. Dorothea had never taught anyone to shoot from horseback before. That was too advanced for most of her students. Perhaps Asia would finally be the person to practice with.
Before she got too far ahead of herself, Dorothea returned to the practice at hand. “Why don’t you try from a farther length? Try and shoot in the center of the three different targets.” She gestured to the three targets that stood several feet apart from the left to the right. They were staggered as well, so asking Asia to move back several feet would make each one a different challenge.
If there was one thing that Dorothea was proud of, it was her ability to assess and give honest feedback. Archery had been something she had been practicing in since she was young and over the years her skills had become impeccable. She never seemed to miss nor have an arrow fly in an unintended direction. The times she had been dissatisfied with her performance had been when she was uncertain how or where to shoot. Uncertainty was a foolish and even dangerous attribute held by archers and with time she had trained it out of herself. Yet it was often what plagued others. And so, she had always had to be very careful when it came to giving feedback. Some might be upset by the truth, even if it was what they needed to improve. Dorothea did not want to instill false confidence, but did not want to discourage so much that it became a distraction. There was a fine line to walk there and she did well with it for the most part.
This would be no different, for all her pupil was both a royal and her cousin. When Dorothea promised to give her honest opinion, she meant it. Yet, she knew already that she would not be harsh. She also knew that Asia had been training for many years, so Dorothea would have to be more precise with her feedback. She did not come all this way to be told something that any archery teacher could explain.
Dorothea took a step back and watched as her cousin shot, her arrow landing in the center of the target. It was well placed, though Dorothea did not expect anything different from the princess. She had been training for many years. If she could not hit the center of the target from a basic distance, then Dorothea would have more work to do than she anticipated.
However, she let none of her thoughts show, offering her cousin a genuine smile. She was pleased after all to see how Asia could shoot. “Well done,” she offered. “You have good form and your aim is true. I would like to see how you shoot from further away and with some obstacles. Perhaps later we can try from horseback as well. Do you often hunt or shoot while riding?” Now, that would be an interesting lesson. Dorothea had never taught anyone to shoot from horseback before. That was too advanced for most of her students. Perhaps Asia would finally be the person to practice with.
Before she got too far ahead of herself, Dorothea returned to the practice at hand. “Why don’t you try from a farther length? Try and shoot in the center of the three different targets.” She gestured to the three targets that stood several feet apart from the left to the right. They were staggered as well, so asking Asia to move back several feet would make each one a different challenge.
Athanasia didn’t look nearly as nervous as she felt. She was generally confident when using a bow, both at hunting and shooting targets. But today she felt as if she was on display, something she had never liked when attending events with her family. Despite the rapport she was developing with her cousin, Dorothea was far superior than she was at archery and she was a bit anxious when called upon to shoot at a distance that she had mastered as a child. The princess looked forward to Dorothea’s feedback and wanted to learn how to be as exceptional as her cousin, but she didn’t wish to embarrass herself. She could handle constructive criticism. Her brothers gave it to her all the time. I have to quit thinking and just do it, she thought.
As soon as she released the arrow, it felt as if all of the tension in her body followed it when it hit the center of the target. Dorothea praised her form and her aim, which pleased her immensely. Athanasia didn’t like doing things on demand, but how would she improve if she didn’t do as her cousin asked? When Dorothea mentioned learning to shoot on horseback, her expression became a bit sheepish. “I’ve been afraid of horses since I fell off one and broke my arm when I was five.
“Only a few months ago, I decided to conquer that fear when Lady Selene gifted with me with a beautiful white mare. She and I went riding a few times and she helped me to become more comfortable on horseback. I always hunt on foot but when I’m better at riding, I’d love to learn how to shoot a bow from the back of a horse. I would like to learn on my own horse, though, and I didn’t bring her with me.” Athanasia had been riding borrowed horses while in Taengea. She was a bit wary of them, even thought they were all quite docile. Childhood fears were not banished overnight.
“Why don’t you try from a farther length? Try and shoot in the center of the three different targets.”
Dorothea indicated three staggered targets, still not much of a challenge, but perhaps they were just warming up. Athanasia nodded and dis as requested, hitting the center of those targets too. And so the lesson progressed, the challenges that her cousin set her becoming ever more difficult. She didn’t hit every target perfectly … some not at all … but Dorothea gave her some good advice and when she was so tired she could barely lift her bow, she knew that she had the knowledge to continue improving her skills when she got home.
When they were done, the two young women walked back to manor, discussing other things they could do together during the princess’ visit.
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This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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Athanasia didn’t look nearly as nervous as she felt. She was generally confident when using a bow, both at hunting and shooting targets. But today she felt as if she was on display, something she had never liked when attending events with her family. Despite the rapport she was developing with her cousin, Dorothea was far superior than she was at archery and she was a bit anxious when called upon to shoot at a distance that she had mastered as a child. The princess looked forward to Dorothea’s feedback and wanted to learn how to be as exceptional as her cousin, but she didn’t wish to embarrass herself. She could handle constructive criticism. Her brothers gave it to her all the time. I have to quit thinking and just do it, she thought.
As soon as she released the arrow, it felt as if all of the tension in her body followed it when it hit the center of the target. Dorothea praised her form and her aim, which pleased her immensely. Athanasia didn’t like doing things on demand, but how would she improve if she didn’t do as her cousin asked? When Dorothea mentioned learning to shoot on horseback, her expression became a bit sheepish. “I’ve been afraid of horses since I fell off one and broke my arm when I was five.
“Only a few months ago, I decided to conquer that fear when Lady Selene gifted with me with a beautiful white mare. She and I went riding a few times and she helped me to become more comfortable on horseback. I always hunt on foot but when I’m better at riding, I’d love to learn how to shoot a bow from the back of a horse. I would like to learn on my own horse, though, and I didn’t bring her with me.” Athanasia had been riding borrowed horses while in Taengea. She was a bit wary of them, even thought they were all quite docile. Childhood fears were not banished overnight.
“Why don’t you try from a farther length? Try and shoot in the center of the three different targets.”
Dorothea indicated three staggered targets, still not much of a challenge, but perhaps they were just warming up. Athanasia nodded and dis as requested, hitting the center of those targets too. And so the lesson progressed, the challenges that her cousin set her becoming ever more difficult. She didn’t hit every target perfectly … some not at all … but Dorothea gave her some good advice and when she was so tired she could barely lift her bow, she knew that she had the knowledge to continue improving her skills when she got home.
When they were done, the two young women walked back to manor, discussing other things they could do together during the princess’ visit.
Athanasia didn’t look nearly as nervous as she felt. She was generally confident when using a bow, both at hunting and shooting targets. But today she felt as if she was on display, something she had never liked when attending events with her family. Despite the rapport she was developing with her cousin, Dorothea was far superior than she was at archery and she was a bit anxious when called upon to shoot at a distance that she had mastered as a child. The princess looked forward to Dorothea’s feedback and wanted to learn how to be as exceptional as her cousin, but she didn’t wish to embarrass herself. She could handle constructive criticism. Her brothers gave it to her all the time. I have to quit thinking and just do it, she thought.
As soon as she released the arrow, it felt as if all of the tension in her body followed it when it hit the center of the target. Dorothea praised her form and her aim, which pleased her immensely. Athanasia didn’t like doing things on demand, but how would she improve if she didn’t do as her cousin asked? When Dorothea mentioned learning to shoot on horseback, her expression became a bit sheepish. “I’ve been afraid of horses since I fell off one and broke my arm when I was five.
“Only a few months ago, I decided to conquer that fear when Lady Selene gifted with me with a beautiful white mare. She and I went riding a few times and she helped me to become more comfortable on horseback. I always hunt on foot but when I’m better at riding, I’d love to learn how to shoot a bow from the back of a horse. I would like to learn on my own horse, though, and I didn’t bring her with me.” Athanasia had been riding borrowed horses while in Taengea. She was a bit wary of them, even thought they were all quite docile. Childhood fears were not banished overnight.
“Why don’t you try from a farther length? Try and shoot in the center of the three different targets.”
Dorothea indicated three staggered targets, still not much of a challenge, but perhaps they were just warming up. Athanasia nodded and dis as requested, hitting the center of those targets too. And so the lesson progressed, the challenges that her cousin set her becoming ever more difficult. She didn’t hit every target perfectly … some not at all … but Dorothea gave her some good advice and when she was so tired she could barely lift her bow, she knew that she had the knowledge to continue improving her skills when she got home.
When they were done, the two young women walked back to manor, discussing other things they could do together during the princess’ visit.