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Dorothea had to admit that it was nice to have another woman her age about the household. Although Persephone was often caught up with Iason, as she should be, the two women had managed to forge a connection. Dorothea hadn’t forgotten her early promise to the queen and had scheduled their first archery lesson for this morning. She had worked with pupils at a variety of levels. Some total beginners and others more advanced. Although she didn’t doubt that Persephone would try her best, she was interested to see how the woman would do. Doro very much doubted that the royal had ever needed to defend herself personally, a thought that was practiced by most noble women. She, on the other hand, would rather die than let a man defend her. Now, help every now and again could be appreciated, but to solely depend on a man…no, that was not in Dorothea’s nature.
She didn’t expect Persephone to become an expert, but she did hope that the woman would be proficient enough to defend herself if the moment called for it. Dorothea had found an old practice bow of hers, smaller and significantly less grand than her current instrument. Yet, it was a solid choice for beginners and had taught her well. She hoped that Persephone would be able to learn as much.
Haven risen early, Dorothea was dressed and had eaten before much of the household was up. She set an early time for Persephone, but far after she usually rose. She greatly enjoyed having the mornings to herself. This morning it would be nice to get in some practice before her companion arrived. Dorothea made her way out to the practice court alone and started with some simple stretches. As she warmed up, the movements became quicker, mirroring the actions she would take with her bow. It was a soothing routine, familiar to her.
As a final warm up, she grabbed her bow and fired at several different targets in quick succession, closing her eyes, trusting her body to do the work for her. For a moment, Doro stood in silence, allowing the gentle sounds of her breath to center her and ready her for the day. When she opened her eyes to survey her work, her companion caught her attention.
“Ah, you know how to sneak up upon a person,” she smiled. “Good morning, Persephone. Ready to begin your lessons?”
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Dorothea had to admit that it was nice to have another woman her age about the household. Although Persephone was often caught up with Iason, as she should be, the two women had managed to forge a connection. Dorothea hadn’t forgotten her early promise to the queen and had scheduled their first archery lesson for this morning. She had worked with pupils at a variety of levels. Some total beginners and others more advanced. Although she didn’t doubt that Persephone would try her best, she was interested to see how the woman would do. Doro very much doubted that the royal had ever needed to defend herself personally, a thought that was practiced by most noble women. She, on the other hand, would rather die than let a man defend her. Now, help every now and again could be appreciated, but to solely depend on a man…no, that was not in Dorothea’s nature.
She didn’t expect Persephone to become an expert, but she did hope that the woman would be proficient enough to defend herself if the moment called for it. Dorothea had found an old practice bow of hers, smaller and significantly less grand than her current instrument. Yet, it was a solid choice for beginners and had taught her well. She hoped that Persephone would be able to learn as much.
Haven risen early, Dorothea was dressed and had eaten before much of the household was up. She set an early time for Persephone, but far after she usually rose. She greatly enjoyed having the mornings to herself. This morning it would be nice to get in some practice before her companion arrived. Dorothea made her way out to the practice court alone and started with some simple stretches. As she warmed up, the movements became quicker, mirroring the actions she would take with her bow. It was a soothing routine, familiar to her.
As a final warm up, she grabbed her bow and fired at several different targets in quick succession, closing her eyes, trusting her body to do the work for her. For a moment, Doro stood in silence, allowing the gentle sounds of her breath to center her and ready her for the day. When she opened her eyes to survey her work, her companion caught her attention.
“Ah, you know how to sneak up upon a person,” she smiled. “Good morning, Persephone. Ready to begin your lessons?”
Dorothea had to admit that it was nice to have another woman her age about the household. Although Persephone was often caught up with Iason, as she should be, the two women had managed to forge a connection. Dorothea hadn’t forgotten her early promise to the queen and had scheduled their first archery lesson for this morning. She had worked with pupils at a variety of levels. Some total beginners and others more advanced. Although she didn’t doubt that Persephone would try her best, she was interested to see how the woman would do. Doro very much doubted that the royal had ever needed to defend herself personally, a thought that was practiced by most noble women. She, on the other hand, would rather die than let a man defend her. Now, help every now and again could be appreciated, but to solely depend on a man…no, that was not in Dorothea’s nature.
She didn’t expect Persephone to become an expert, but she did hope that the woman would be proficient enough to defend herself if the moment called for it. Dorothea had found an old practice bow of hers, smaller and significantly less grand than her current instrument. Yet, it was a solid choice for beginners and had taught her well. She hoped that Persephone would be able to learn as much.
Haven risen early, Dorothea was dressed and had eaten before much of the household was up. She set an early time for Persephone, but far after she usually rose. She greatly enjoyed having the mornings to herself. This morning it would be nice to get in some practice before her companion arrived. Dorothea made her way out to the practice court alone and started with some simple stretches. As she warmed up, the movements became quicker, mirroring the actions she would take with her bow. It was a soothing routine, familiar to her.
As a final warm up, she grabbed her bow and fired at several different targets in quick succession, closing her eyes, trusting her body to do the work for her. For a moment, Doro stood in silence, allowing the gentle sounds of her breath to center her and ready her for the day. When she opened her eyes to survey her work, her companion caught her attention.
“Ah, you know how to sneak up upon a person,” she smiled. “Good morning, Persephone. Ready to begin your lessons?”
Persephone was one who rose with the sun. It had always been that way. Regardless of the time of year, or how early in the day the orb rose from above the horizon, setting the land afire with bright sparks of white colour, Persephone was awake by the time its complete curve had broken free of the land and had out of bed by the time its lowest dip had become fully visible. It was both a curse and a blessing in her role as woman and then Queen.
Today, however, it was a bonus to her daily plans. For the Lady Dorothea had made it clear at the repast the night before that their first archery session would be conducted that morning; an activity that Persephone was particularly looking forward to.
Whilst, as any inheritor of the Leventi bloodline could claim, Persephone was an incredibly proficient horse-rider, she held little to no other physical skills. A woman of mind and grace and courtly etiquette and social standing that was only maintained with the least amount of physical exertion; for a Queen never handled her own matters by hand, she was hardly the kind of person that had been taught or encouraged to learn physical arts.
It had always irked her that people seemed to believe that she couldn't learn such talents. And Dorothea's willingness to teach her without holding derision or judgement that she didn't already know how to put one foot in front of the other, so to speak, was greatly appreciated, securing an even stronger affection than she already felt for her future sister-in-law.
After an hour of preparation, Persephone was considered presentable by herself and her borrowed lady's maids. Dressed in double-shouldered peplos of soft pink with a himation of purest white tied at her waist to trail down over her skirts, Persephone deliberately avoided any loose jewellery around her wrists or hands, wearing only her father's wedding band on her thumb and choosing instead rose gold cuffs around her upper arms that sported the Dimitrou stag. Her hair, in order to keep that as clear from her archery lessons as her raiment, she had ordered to be fastened in a long braid that fell down her back in a single rope of elegant design, a white ribbon woven in between the locks of darkest brown. She wore adornment of rose gold at her ears but no tiara or diadem for her state as monarch. For she had, by now, grown used to the idea that she would not be returning to Athenia, but living her life as a Taengean baroness...
Despite the altogether very feminine look of her attire, the choices he had made were realistic in not impeding her lesson (or so she hoped). For she knew enough of archery at the very least to know how she might be expected to perform the task.
When the hour arranged for her lesson drew near, Persephone was quick to leave the Dimitrou manor and locate her new friend in the archery shooting range that family held upon their private lands. This would ensure that no servants or slaves witnessed her uselessness at the art, nor would she endanger anyone with her ineptitude.
When she reached the spot in question, just a few minutes’ walk from the manor itself, Persephone paused when she witnessed Dorothea lining up a shot. Her eyes trailed over the frame of the girl, attempting to learn from example as she noted the way in which she stood, the means with which she held the bow and arrow nocked upon the string… the angle of her elbow… She knew that she would be getting all of it wrong upon her first attempt but trying to get the general idea before she even touched a bow seemed a smart move to make.
When the Lady Dorothea let loose the arrow, Persephone barely saw it leave the bow. It moved with such power and grace and speed as to blur and disappear before the human eye. The softest of thunks from across the grassland was all the indication Persephone had of its location before she spotted it, embedded in the straw woven target some hundred yards away. Dead centre.
Keeping her expression calm and free from the surprise and impress that she felt upon the girl’s skill, Persephone simple stepped forwards when Dorothea greeted her. Her smile was soft and sweet when the girl accused her of sneaking, knowing that she meant it only as a friendly jest. Her training in how to walk with the proper grace and poise had led to her naturally moving very quietly. It was a trait that Aimias had often pointed out whenever she had made him jump in his offices when he had been absorbed in work.
“Most certainly.” Persephone responded to the girl. “Though I feel the need to warn you once more of my complete novice status.” She said with an expression of apology. She held out her hands palm up as if to bed forgiveness for her ignorance, stepping forward to stand beside the girl. “I have never been allowed to touch a weapon, less so taught how to use one.” She winced a little in mirth. “You’ll have to teach me as a you would a babe.”
What she did have where an infant did not however, was an eagerness for being taught and the intelligence of an adult. So, perhaps her lessons would progress more positively than she was expecting them to. She offered out her hands as her eyes landed on the bow Dorothea still held.
“What would you like me to do first?”
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Check out their information page here.
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Persephone was one who rose with the sun. It had always been that way. Regardless of the time of year, or how early in the day the orb rose from above the horizon, setting the land afire with bright sparks of white colour, Persephone was awake by the time its complete curve had broken free of the land and had out of bed by the time its lowest dip had become fully visible. It was both a curse and a blessing in her role as woman and then Queen.
Today, however, it was a bonus to her daily plans. For the Lady Dorothea had made it clear at the repast the night before that their first archery session would be conducted that morning; an activity that Persephone was particularly looking forward to.
Whilst, as any inheritor of the Leventi bloodline could claim, Persephone was an incredibly proficient horse-rider, she held little to no other physical skills. A woman of mind and grace and courtly etiquette and social standing that was only maintained with the least amount of physical exertion; for a Queen never handled her own matters by hand, she was hardly the kind of person that had been taught or encouraged to learn physical arts.
It had always irked her that people seemed to believe that she couldn't learn such talents. And Dorothea's willingness to teach her without holding derision or judgement that she didn't already know how to put one foot in front of the other, so to speak, was greatly appreciated, securing an even stronger affection than she already felt for her future sister-in-law.
After an hour of preparation, Persephone was considered presentable by herself and her borrowed lady's maids. Dressed in double-shouldered peplos of soft pink with a himation of purest white tied at her waist to trail down over her skirts, Persephone deliberately avoided any loose jewellery around her wrists or hands, wearing only her father's wedding band on her thumb and choosing instead rose gold cuffs around her upper arms that sported the Dimitrou stag. Her hair, in order to keep that as clear from her archery lessons as her raiment, she had ordered to be fastened in a long braid that fell down her back in a single rope of elegant design, a white ribbon woven in between the locks of darkest brown. She wore adornment of rose gold at her ears but no tiara or diadem for her state as monarch. For she had, by now, grown used to the idea that she would not be returning to Athenia, but living her life as a Taengean baroness...
Despite the altogether very feminine look of her attire, the choices he had made were realistic in not impeding her lesson (or so she hoped). For she knew enough of archery at the very least to know how she might be expected to perform the task.
When the hour arranged for her lesson drew near, Persephone was quick to leave the Dimitrou manor and locate her new friend in the archery shooting range that family held upon their private lands. This would ensure that no servants or slaves witnessed her uselessness at the art, nor would she endanger anyone with her ineptitude.
When she reached the spot in question, just a few minutes’ walk from the manor itself, Persephone paused when she witnessed Dorothea lining up a shot. Her eyes trailed over the frame of the girl, attempting to learn from example as she noted the way in which she stood, the means with which she held the bow and arrow nocked upon the string… the angle of her elbow… She knew that she would be getting all of it wrong upon her first attempt but trying to get the general idea before she even touched a bow seemed a smart move to make.
When the Lady Dorothea let loose the arrow, Persephone barely saw it leave the bow. It moved with such power and grace and speed as to blur and disappear before the human eye. The softest of thunks from across the grassland was all the indication Persephone had of its location before she spotted it, embedded in the straw woven target some hundred yards away. Dead centre.
Keeping her expression calm and free from the surprise and impress that she felt upon the girl’s skill, Persephone simple stepped forwards when Dorothea greeted her. Her smile was soft and sweet when the girl accused her of sneaking, knowing that she meant it only as a friendly jest. Her training in how to walk with the proper grace and poise had led to her naturally moving very quietly. It was a trait that Aimias had often pointed out whenever she had made him jump in his offices when he had been absorbed in work.
“Most certainly.” Persephone responded to the girl. “Though I feel the need to warn you once more of my complete novice status.” She said with an expression of apology. She held out her hands palm up as if to bed forgiveness for her ignorance, stepping forward to stand beside the girl. “I have never been allowed to touch a weapon, less so taught how to use one.” She winced a little in mirth. “You’ll have to teach me as a you would a babe.”
What she did have where an infant did not however, was an eagerness for being taught and the intelligence of an adult. So, perhaps her lessons would progress more positively than she was expecting them to. She offered out her hands as her eyes landed on the bow Dorothea still held.
“What would you like me to do first?”
Persephone was one who rose with the sun. It had always been that way. Regardless of the time of year, or how early in the day the orb rose from above the horizon, setting the land afire with bright sparks of white colour, Persephone was awake by the time its complete curve had broken free of the land and had out of bed by the time its lowest dip had become fully visible. It was both a curse and a blessing in her role as woman and then Queen.
Today, however, it was a bonus to her daily plans. For the Lady Dorothea had made it clear at the repast the night before that their first archery session would be conducted that morning; an activity that Persephone was particularly looking forward to.
Whilst, as any inheritor of the Leventi bloodline could claim, Persephone was an incredibly proficient horse-rider, she held little to no other physical skills. A woman of mind and grace and courtly etiquette and social standing that was only maintained with the least amount of physical exertion; for a Queen never handled her own matters by hand, she was hardly the kind of person that had been taught or encouraged to learn physical arts.
It had always irked her that people seemed to believe that she couldn't learn such talents. And Dorothea's willingness to teach her without holding derision or judgement that she didn't already know how to put one foot in front of the other, so to speak, was greatly appreciated, securing an even stronger affection than she already felt for her future sister-in-law.
After an hour of preparation, Persephone was considered presentable by herself and her borrowed lady's maids. Dressed in double-shouldered peplos of soft pink with a himation of purest white tied at her waist to trail down over her skirts, Persephone deliberately avoided any loose jewellery around her wrists or hands, wearing only her father's wedding band on her thumb and choosing instead rose gold cuffs around her upper arms that sported the Dimitrou stag. Her hair, in order to keep that as clear from her archery lessons as her raiment, she had ordered to be fastened in a long braid that fell down her back in a single rope of elegant design, a white ribbon woven in between the locks of darkest brown. She wore adornment of rose gold at her ears but no tiara or diadem for her state as monarch. For she had, by now, grown used to the idea that she would not be returning to Athenia, but living her life as a Taengean baroness...
Despite the altogether very feminine look of her attire, the choices he had made were realistic in not impeding her lesson (or so she hoped). For she knew enough of archery at the very least to know how she might be expected to perform the task.
When the hour arranged for her lesson drew near, Persephone was quick to leave the Dimitrou manor and locate her new friend in the archery shooting range that family held upon their private lands. This would ensure that no servants or slaves witnessed her uselessness at the art, nor would she endanger anyone with her ineptitude.
When she reached the spot in question, just a few minutes’ walk from the manor itself, Persephone paused when she witnessed Dorothea lining up a shot. Her eyes trailed over the frame of the girl, attempting to learn from example as she noted the way in which she stood, the means with which she held the bow and arrow nocked upon the string… the angle of her elbow… She knew that she would be getting all of it wrong upon her first attempt but trying to get the general idea before she even touched a bow seemed a smart move to make.
When the Lady Dorothea let loose the arrow, Persephone barely saw it leave the bow. It moved with such power and grace and speed as to blur and disappear before the human eye. The softest of thunks from across the grassland was all the indication Persephone had of its location before she spotted it, embedded in the straw woven target some hundred yards away. Dead centre.
Keeping her expression calm and free from the surprise and impress that she felt upon the girl’s skill, Persephone simple stepped forwards when Dorothea greeted her. Her smile was soft and sweet when the girl accused her of sneaking, knowing that she meant it only as a friendly jest. Her training in how to walk with the proper grace and poise had led to her naturally moving very quietly. It was a trait that Aimias had often pointed out whenever she had made him jump in his offices when he had been absorbed in work.
“Most certainly.” Persephone responded to the girl. “Though I feel the need to warn you once more of my complete novice status.” She said with an expression of apology. She held out her hands palm up as if to bed forgiveness for her ignorance, stepping forward to stand beside the girl. “I have never been allowed to touch a weapon, less so taught how to use one.” She winced a little in mirth. “You’ll have to teach me as a you would a babe.”
What she did have where an infant did not however, was an eagerness for being taught and the intelligence of an adult. So, perhaps her lessons would progress more positively than she was expecting them to. She offered out her hands as her eyes landed on the bow Dorothea still held.
“What would you like me to do first?”
Dorothea took a moment to assess Persephone’s choice of outfit, finding herself pleased. She had dressed sensibly, clearly ready for their lesson. She noted the cuffs on that held her family crest on Persephone’s arms and found herself rather more pleased than she could have imagined. It was nice to see that their family was still able to be shared with others. Despite her “dressed down” look, the queen still managed to look more regal that Dorothea ever could. However, the Dimitrou woman didn’t find herself all too envious. Rather, she was happy that her brother could be so lucky. Dorothea preferred her plainness, happy with the lifestyle it afforded her. If she were much prettier, surely she would be married off by now. And that certainly wasn’t something she wanted.
When Persephone reminded her of her novice status, Dorothea paid little mind. She had taught plenty of beginners before. Beginners of all ages. It hadn’t served as much of a problem. Rather, it was a challenge that Dorothea rather enjoyed. She liked to test her eye and watch the way others moved. Although archery was as natural to her as walking, Dorothea appreciated the reminder that it was not always so for others.
She did feel a brief sympathy for Persephone, when she mentioned never having any training in weaponry. She supposed that it did make sense that a princess wouldn’t be trained to defend herself, but Doro thought that idea was rather antiquated. Surely a person who was a potential target ought to know some basic skills to watch over herself in the absence of others. The likelihood of her being unprotected at some point was there. And in Persephone’s case, it had already happened. Yet, most families found it rather unfit to train any woman. Dorothea considered herself lucky that her father was not among those of that particular mindset. To her, shooting an arrow was as natural as breathing. It would be a great pang of absence not to have her bow nearby. “Please don’t worry,” Dorothea reassured her. “I have taught many – especially those with limited or no experience. I can remember what it was like to be a beginner. I will only constructively judge.” It was true – though in all truthfulness, her beginner status had been unlike any of those she had taught. Shooting had always come rather easily to her and she had the goddess to thank for it.
“Come,” she gestured, moving down closer to the target. Not only would that be their practice space, but she had a bow appropriate for beginners waiting for them. “First, we will go over the basics of the bow. It’s important to understand the tool you will be using. Usually, I make my students carry the bow around with them day and night so that they understand their weapon. It grows heavy after a time, but they must be able to wield it even then.” It might have seemed extreme to some, but Dorothea took weapons training very seriously and she never doubted the strength that lay in her instrument.
When they reached the closer range, Dorothea slung her own bow over her back and then handed Persephone the practice bow.
“There are four basic parts to the bow,” she explained. “The riser, limbs, string nock, and the string itself.” Dorothea pointed each part out on the bow that Persephone held. “Similarly, the arrow also has four basic parts.” She grabbed an arrow, pointing to each part as she continued her explanation, “The point, shaft, fletching, and nock.
“Now, before you shoot anything, let’s practice getting your grip correct and feeling comfortable.” Dorothea then instructed Persephone to hold the bow up, gently guiding her arms into the appropriate position.
“Yes, that’s it,” she said. “It’s higher than you think. Very good. Now, to pull back on the string, keep your elbow high. Keep pulling. When you release, make sure to keep your hand on the string back, letting go firmly. Try it now.”
When Persephone had demonstrated that she could pull it back to a desirable length, Dorothea nodded. “Let’s try again with an arrow this time, shall we? Don’t worry about the aim. That will be a later lesson. For now, let’s practice the release.”
She handed the queen an arrow, instructing her how to notch it and ensuring her left hand was nowhere near where the arrow might graze it. “When you’re ready,” she nodded, standing back to watch Persephone send her first ever arrow flying.
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Check out their information page here.
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Dorothea took a moment to assess Persephone’s choice of outfit, finding herself pleased. She had dressed sensibly, clearly ready for their lesson. She noted the cuffs on that held her family crest on Persephone’s arms and found herself rather more pleased than she could have imagined. It was nice to see that their family was still able to be shared with others. Despite her “dressed down” look, the queen still managed to look more regal that Dorothea ever could. However, the Dimitrou woman didn’t find herself all too envious. Rather, she was happy that her brother could be so lucky. Dorothea preferred her plainness, happy with the lifestyle it afforded her. If she were much prettier, surely she would be married off by now. And that certainly wasn’t something she wanted.
When Persephone reminded her of her novice status, Dorothea paid little mind. She had taught plenty of beginners before. Beginners of all ages. It hadn’t served as much of a problem. Rather, it was a challenge that Dorothea rather enjoyed. She liked to test her eye and watch the way others moved. Although archery was as natural to her as walking, Dorothea appreciated the reminder that it was not always so for others.
She did feel a brief sympathy for Persephone, when she mentioned never having any training in weaponry. She supposed that it did make sense that a princess wouldn’t be trained to defend herself, but Doro thought that idea was rather antiquated. Surely a person who was a potential target ought to know some basic skills to watch over herself in the absence of others. The likelihood of her being unprotected at some point was there. And in Persephone’s case, it had already happened. Yet, most families found it rather unfit to train any woman. Dorothea considered herself lucky that her father was not among those of that particular mindset. To her, shooting an arrow was as natural as breathing. It would be a great pang of absence not to have her bow nearby. “Please don’t worry,” Dorothea reassured her. “I have taught many – especially those with limited or no experience. I can remember what it was like to be a beginner. I will only constructively judge.” It was true – though in all truthfulness, her beginner status had been unlike any of those she had taught. Shooting had always come rather easily to her and she had the goddess to thank for it.
“Come,” she gestured, moving down closer to the target. Not only would that be their practice space, but she had a bow appropriate for beginners waiting for them. “First, we will go over the basics of the bow. It’s important to understand the tool you will be using. Usually, I make my students carry the bow around with them day and night so that they understand their weapon. It grows heavy after a time, but they must be able to wield it even then.” It might have seemed extreme to some, but Dorothea took weapons training very seriously and she never doubted the strength that lay in her instrument.
When they reached the closer range, Dorothea slung her own bow over her back and then handed Persephone the practice bow.
“There are four basic parts to the bow,” she explained. “The riser, limbs, string nock, and the string itself.” Dorothea pointed each part out on the bow that Persephone held. “Similarly, the arrow also has four basic parts.” She grabbed an arrow, pointing to each part as she continued her explanation, “The point, shaft, fletching, and nock.
“Now, before you shoot anything, let’s practice getting your grip correct and feeling comfortable.” Dorothea then instructed Persephone to hold the bow up, gently guiding her arms into the appropriate position.
“Yes, that’s it,” she said. “It’s higher than you think. Very good. Now, to pull back on the string, keep your elbow high. Keep pulling. When you release, make sure to keep your hand on the string back, letting go firmly. Try it now.”
When Persephone had demonstrated that she could pull it back to a desirable length, Dorothea nodded. “Let’s try again with an arrow this time, shall we? Don’t worry about the aim. That will be a later lesson. For now, let’s practice the release.”
She handed the queen an arrow, instructing her how to notch it and ensuring her left hand was nowhere near where the arrow might graze it. “When you’re ready,” she nodded, standing back to watch Persephone send her first ever arrow flying.
Dorothea took a moment to assess Persephone’s choice of outfit, finding herself pleased. She had dressed sensibly, clearly ready for their lesson. She noted the cuffs on that held her family crest on Persephone’s arms and found herself rather more pleased than she could have imagined. It was nice to see that their family was still able to be shared with others. Despite her “dressed down” look, the queen still managed to look more regal that Dorothea ever could. However, the Dimitrou woman didn’t find herself all too envious. Rather, she was happy that her brother could be so lucky. Dorothea preferred her plainness, happy with the lifestyle it afforded her. If she were much prettier, surely she would be married off by now. And that certainly wasn’t something she wanted.
When Persephone reminded her of her novice status, Dorothea paid little mind. She had taught plenty of beginners before. Beginners of all ages. It hadn’t served as much of a problem. Rather, it was a challenge that Dorothea rather enjoyed. She liked to test her eye and watch the way others moved. Although archery was as natural to her as walking, Dorothea appreciated the reminder that it was not always so for others.
She did feel a brief sympathy for Persephone, when she mentioned never having any training in weaponry. She supposed that it did make sense that a princess wouldn’t be trained to defend herself, but Doro thought that idea was rather antiquated. Surely a person who was a potential target ought to know some basic skills to watch over herself in the absence of others. The likelihood of her being unprotected at some point was there. And in Persephone’s case, it had already happened. Yet, most families found it rather unfit to train any woman. Dorothea considered herself lucky that her father was not among those of that particular mindset. To her, shooting an arrow was as natural as breathing. It would be a great pang of absence not to have her bow nearby. “Please don’t worry,” Dorothea reassured her. “I have taught many – especially those with limited or no experience. I can remember what it was like to be a beginner. I will only constructively judge.” It was true – though in all truthfulness, her beginner status had been unlike any of those she had taught. Shooting had always come rather easily to her and she had the goddess to thank for it.
“Come,” she gestured, moving down closer to the target. Not only would that be their practice space, but she had a bow appropriate for beginners waiting for them. “First, we will go over the basics of the bow. It’s important to understand the tool you will be using. Usually, I make my students carry the bow around with them day and night so that they understand their weapon. It grows heavy after a time, but they must be able to wield it even then.” It might have seemed extreme to some, but Dorothea took weapons training very seriously and she never doubted the strength that lay in her instrument.
When they reached the closer range, Dorothea slung her own bow over her back and then handed Persephone the practice bow.
“There are four basic parts to the bow,” she explained. “The riser, limbs, string nock, and the string itself.” Dorothea pointed each part out on the bow that Persephone held. “Similarly, the arrow also has four basic parts.” She grabbed an arrow, pointing to each part as she continued her explanation, “The point, shaft, fletching, and nock.
“Now, before you shoot anything, let’s practice getting your grip correct and feeling comfortable.” Dorothea then instructed Persephone to hold the bow up, gently guiding her arms into the appropriate position.
“Yes, that’s it,” she said. “It’s higher than you think. Very good. Now, to pull back on the string, keep your elbow high. Keep pulling. When you release, make sure to keep your hand on the string back, letting go firmly. Try it now.”
When Persephone had demonstrated that she could pull it back to a desirable length, Dorothea nodded. “Let’s try again with an arrow this time, shall we? Don’t worry about the aim. That will be a later lesson. For now, let’s practice the release.”
She handed the queen an arrow, instructing her how to notch it and ensuring her left hand was nowhere near where the arrow might graze it. “When you’re ready,” she nodded, standing back to watch Persephone send her first ever arrow flying.
Persephone smiled when the young woman assured her that she would only judge in a constructive manner. Her brow rose in an expression of shrewd assurance as she spoke with a sense of amused self-deprecation.
"I can assure you that judgement does not phase me and something I have come to know more than a little intimately." She assured the girl. "Your criticism can be as harsh as you like and it shall only make me try harder."
When Dorothea urged her forwards, Persephone followed in her wake. Perhaps it was odd that a woman used to be a princess and queen was content to take instruction but Persephone's life had been less one of grand authority but of constant lessons and tutoring. She had learnt very young that being a royal did not mean you knew everything. It meant that you had to learn everything. And assuming that you were already a master of a craft stopped any real progression in it. So, she was perfectly content to follow Dorothea's instructions.
Nodding calmly at every piece of information that the archer gave to her, Persephone watched with a clearly attentive stare that betrayed a genuine enjoyment of learning.
When she was given the bow, Persephone took it with care and careful application. When she was told to draw it, she was quick to pull the string back with a speed uncommon in beginners. Whilst she might turn out to be an appalling shot, the strength required to pull back the string of the bow was located largely in the back and shoulders. Muscles that Persephone had strengthened and toned all her life with regular lessons in posture that lasted for days on end. In fact, the adjustments that Dorothea made to her stance and hold, suggested that she had pulled the string too far, warping the bow was she did so.
As she was told to move it higher, Persephone did so, her elbow coming into a straight line and her aiming hand lifting slightly. Persephone looked forwards, although she wasn't sure what she was aiming at and followed the instructions she was given.
She was then told to do it again but with an arrow this time. Again, the drawing of the bow was not difficult, nor was the clear posture with which she had to stand to align her arrow. But the hold of both was a little tricky and the arrow head juddered about for a moment before she had it securely in hand and kept it straight and true.
Feeling confidence, Persephone noted Dorothea take a clearing step backwards and encourage her to let the arrow loose towards the target ahead of them. In what she thought was a calm moment of release, Persephone let the arrow go. Unfortunately, it didn't work out as well as she had hoped.
Instead of shooting forwards in a lovely arch, something caught the arrow, shocked it into a sort of pinwheel, right there on the bow, and Persephone let out a yelp and dropped both bow and arrow in a clatter to the floor, as she darted back a step, worried for taking an arrow to the eye as the thing spun in a crazy tangle before her eyes.
Her fingers coming to rest against her lips, Persephone glanced down at the equipment that now lay in the grass and then looked up at Dorothea with a look of apology, before a giggle started to ripple through her chest.
"Well." She said, with a dignified voice that only sounded funnier in the circumstance. "... that went well."
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Persephone smiled when the young woman assured her that she would only judge in a constructive manner. Her brow rose in an expression of shrewd assurance as she spoke with a sense of amused self-deprecation.
"I can assure you that judgement does not phase me and something I have come to know more than a little intimately." She assured the girl. "Your criticism can be as harsh as you like and it shall only make me try harder."
When Dorothea urged her forwards, Persephone followed in her wake. Perhaps it was odd that a woman used to be a princess and queen was content to take instruction but Persephone's life had been less one of grand authority but of constant lessons and tutoring. She had learnt very young that being a royal did not mean you knew everything. It meant that you had to learn everything. And assuming that you were already a master of a craft stopped any real progression in it. So, she was perfectly content to follow Dorothea's instructions.
Nodding calmly at every piece of information that the archer gave to her, Persephone watched with a clearly attentive stare that betrayed a genuine enjoyment of learning.
When she was given the bow, Persephone took it with care and careful application. When she was told to draw it, she was quick to pull the string back with a speed uncommon in beginners. Whilst she might turn out to be an appalling shot, the strength required to pull back the string of the bow was located largely in the back and shoulders. Muscles that Persephone had strengthened and toned all her life with regular lessons in posture that lasted for days on end. In fact, the adjustments that Dorothea made to her stance and hold, suggested that she had pulled the string too far, warping the bow was she did so.
As she was told to move it higher, Persephone did so, her elbow coming into a straight line and her aiming hand lifting slightly. Persephone looked forwards, although she wasn't sure what she was aiming at and followed the instructions she was given.
She was then told to do it again but with an arrow this time. Again, the drawing of the bow was not difficult, nor was the clear posture with which she had to stand to align her arrow. But the hold of both was a little tricky and the arrow head juddered about for a moment before she had it securely in hand and kept it straight and true.
Feeling confidence, Persephone noted Dorothea take a clearing step backwards and encourage her to let the arrow loose towards the target ahead of them. In what she thought was a calm moment of release, Persephone let the arrow go. Unfortunately, it didn't work out as well as she had hoped.
Instead of shooting forwards in a lovely arch, something caught the arrow, shocked it into a sort of pinwheel, right there on the bow, and Persephone let out a yelp and dropped both bow and arrow in a clatter to the floor, as she darted back a step, worried for taking an arrow to the eye as the thing spun in a crazy tangle before her eyes.
Her fingers coming to rest against her lips, Persephone glanced down at the equipment that now lay in the grass and then looked up at Dorothea with a look of apology, before a giggle started to ripple through her chest.
"Well." She said, with a dignified voice that only sounded funnier in the circumstance. "... that went well."
Persephone smiled when the young woman assured her that she would only judge in a constructive manner. Her brow rose in an expression of shrewd assurance as she spoke with a sense of amused self-deprecation.
"I can assure you that judgement does not phase me and something I have come to know more than a little intimately." She assured the girl. "Your criticism can be as harsh as you like and it shall only make me try harder."
When Dorothea urged her forwards, Persephone followed in her wake. Perhaps it was odd that a woman used to be a princess and queen was content to take instruction but Persephone's life had been less one of grand authority but of constant lessons and tutoring. She had learnt very young that being a royal did not mean you knew everything. It meant that you had to learn everything. And assuming that you were already a master of a craft stopped any real progression in it. So, she was perfectly content to follow Dorothea's instructions.
Nodding calmly at every piece of information that the archer gave to her, Persephone watched with a clearly attentive stare that betrayed a genuine enjoyment of learning.
When she was given the bow, Persephone took it with care and careful application. When she was told to draw it, she was quick to pull the string back with a speed uncommon in beginners. Whilst she might turn out to be an appalling shot, the strength required to pull back the string of the bow was located largely in the back and shoulders. Muscles that Persephone had strengthened and toned all her life with regular lessons in posture that lasted for days on end. In fact, the adjustments that Dorothea made to her stance and hold, suggested that she had pulled the string too far, warping the bow was she did so.
As she was told to move it higher, Persephone did so, her elbow coming into a straight line and her aiming hand lifting slightly. Persephone looked forwards, although she wasn't sure what she was aiming at and followed the instructions she was given.
She was then told to do it again but with an arrow this time. Again, the drawing of the bow was not difficult, nor was the clear posture with which she had to stand to align her arrow. But the hold of both was a little tricky and the arrow head juddered about for a moment before she had it securely in hand and kept it straight and true.
Feeling confidence, Persephone noted Dorothea take a clearing step backwards and encourage her to let the arrow loose towards the target ahead of them. In what she thought was a calm moment of release, Persephone let the arrow go. Unfortunately, it didn't work out as well as she had hoped.
Instead of shooting forwards in a lovely arch, something caught the arrow, shocked it into a sort of pinwheel, right there on the bow, and Persephone let out a yelp and dropped both bow and arrow in a clatter to the floor, as she darted back a step, worried for taking an arrow to the eye as the thing spun in a crazy tangle before her eyes.
Her fingers coming to rest against her lips, Persephone glanced down at the equipment that now lay in the grass and then looked up at Dorothea with a look of apology, before a giggle started to ripple through her chest.
"Well." She said, with a dignified voice that only sounded funnier in the circumstance. "... that went well."
Although Dorothea had meant her comment about judgment in jest, Persephone seemed to take it rather seriously. It made her think more deeply about her life – knowing that she had hardly ever faced the pressures that the woman next to her had. Although there were certain expectations of her and ideas about the way that she should be acting amongst nobles, it was still relatively inconsequential in the grand scheme of things. Although she was a noble, her role was not one that demanded the center of attention. It had always been much a relief, but she hadn’t thought about how the pressure might impact others.
“Well, we shall endeavor to see some improvement,” she assured Persephone. “Though it takes many years to become truly skilled. We shall aim for the best in the time that we have.”
Slowly, the lesson unfolded, much in the same manner as many of her past ones had. In some ways, it was much easier to teach first time students. They were a blank slate of sorts and didn’t need to unlearn any bad behaviors from previous practice. She also enjoyed watching the quick levels of improvement that were common in beginners. They went from not being able to hold a bow to hitting a target within a few lessons. Although it sometimes felt frustratingly slow to her pupils, it was actually rather impressive in Dorothea’s books. She enjoyed watching them learn and gain confidence. It was one of the more rewarding aspects of teaching.
Persephone proved to be an excellent student. She was attentive and seemed to really enjoy and thrive in the learning environment. This made Dorothea smile fondly. She too was a avid learner and loved practicing a new skill or gaining new knowledge. It was nice to see that her future sister felt the same way. It was rather boring to live one way the whole time without ever learning anything new.
Dorothea made gentle suggestions as Persephone took hold of the bow. A hand on an elbow indicated where her pupil should move and how to hold the bow. Persephone took her suggestions in stride. When it was finally time for her to try and shoot, Dorothea took a step back and nodded confidently at her student.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a first lesson if all went smoothly. Persephone’s arrow failed to leave her bow, causing the woman to drop both and jump back. It was hardly the first time Dorothea had witnessed such an event and far be it from her to laugh at a student’s mistake. She did smile a bit though, as Persephone let out a giggle.
“It could have been worse,” Dorothea said, smiling as she bent down to pick up Persephone’s weapon. She disentangled the arrow from the bow, checking the string to see if it needed to be tightened. With ease, she corrected the instrument and held it back out to her friend. “Try again?”
This incident might worry students and she didn’t want Persephone to fear the bow. “This time, keep your arm up, even as you let go of the string. Maintain your position. Don’t let your arm twist in.” Dorothea waited until Persephone took the bow again, holding it back in the shooting position. “Now, before you let go, take a breath. Look at the target. Close your eyes and envision the target and your arrow striking it.” Dorothea spoke slowly, almost meditatively, waiting for Persephone to go through the steps. “Good. Now, breathe again and release on the exhale.”
She watched as Persephone released the arrow, watching it fly as it hadn’t upon the first time. It managed to clip the bottom of the target, hanging on as if for dear life. It was a valiant effort for a second shot.
“How did that feel?” she asked. She didn’t care where the arrow landed – that was something they could work on later. She wanted to know more about the feelings Persephone went though.
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Although Dorothea had meant her comment about judgment in jest, Persephone seemed to take it rather seriously. It made her think more deeply about her life – knowing that she had hardly ever faced the pressures that the woman next to her had. Although there were certain expectations of her and ideas about the way that she should be acting amongst nobles, it was still relatively inconsequential in the grand scheme of things. Although she was a noble, her role was not one that demanded the center of attention. It had always been much a relief, but she hadn’t thought about how the pressure might impact others.
“Well, we shall endeavor to see some improvement,” she assured Persephone. “Though it takes many years to become truly skilled. We shall aim for the best in the time that we have.”
Slowly, the lesson unfolded, much in the same manner as many of her past ones had. In some ways, it was much easier to teach first time students. They were a blank slate of sorts and didn’t need to unlearn any bad behaviors from previous practice. She also enjoyed watching the quick levels of improvement that were common in beginners. They went from not being able to hold a bow to hitting a target within a few lessons. Although it sometimes felt frustratingly slow to her pupils, it was actually rather impressive in Dorothea’s books. She enjoyed watching them learn and gain confidence. It was one of the more rewarding aspects of teaching.
Persephone proved to be an excellent student. She was attentive and seemed to really enjoy and thrive in the learning environment. This made Dorothea smile fondly. She too was a avid learner and loved practicing a new skill or gaining new knowledge. It was nice to see that her future sister felt the same way. It was rather boring to live one way the whole time without ever learning anything new.
Dorothea made gentle suggestions as Persephone took hold of the bow. A hand on an elbow indicated where her pupil should move and how to hold the bow. Persephone took her suggestions in stride. When it was finally time for her to try and shoot, Dorothea took a step back and nodded confidently at her student.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a first lesson if all went smoothly. Persephone’s arrow failed to leave her bow, causing the woman to drop both and jump back. It was hardly the first time Dorothea had witnessed such an event and far be it from her to laugh at a student’s mistake. She did smile a bit though, as Persephone let out a giggle.
“It could have been worse,” Dorothea said, smiling as she bent down to pick up Persephone’s weapon. She disentangled the arrow from the bow, checking the string to see if it needed to be tightened. With ease, she corrected the instrument and held it back out to her friend. “Try again?”
This incident might worry students and she didn’t want Persephone to fear the bow. “This time, keep your arm up, even as you let go of the string. Maintain your position. Don’t let your arm twist in.” Dorothea waited until Persephone took the bow again, holding it back in the shooting position. “Now, before you let go, take a breath. Look at the target. Close your eyes and envision the target and your arrow striking it.” Dorothea spoke slowly, almost meditatively, waiting for Persephone to go through the steps. “Good. Now, breathe again and release on the exhale.”
She watched as Persephone released the arrow, watching it fly as it hadn’t upon the first time. It managed to clip the bottom of the target, hanging on as if for dear life. It was a valiant effort for a second shot.
“How did that feel?” she asked. She didn’t care where the arrow landed – that was something they could work on later. She wanted to know more about the feelings Persephone went though.
Although Dorothea had meant her comment about judgment in jest, Persephone seemed to take it rather seriously. It made her think more deeply about her life – knowing that she had hardly ever faced the pressures that the woman next to her had. Although there were certain expectations of her and ideas about the way that she should be acting amongst nobles, it was still relatively inconsequential in the grand scheme of things. Although she was a noble, her role was not one that demanded the center of attention. It had always been much a relief, but she hadn’t thought about how the pressure might impact others.
“Well, we shall endeavor to see some improvement,” she assured Persephone. “Though it takes many years to become truly skilled. We shall aim for the best in the time that we have.”
Slowly, the lesson unfolded, much in the same manner as many of her past ones had. In some ways, it was much easier to teach first time students. They were a blank slate of sorts and didn’t need to unlearn any bad behaviors from previous practice. She also enjoyed watching the quick levels of improvement that were common in beginners. They went from not being able to hold a bow to hitting a target within a few lessons. Although it sometimes felt frustratingly slow to her pupils, it was actually rather impressive in Dorothea’s books. She enjoyed watching them learn and gain confidence. It was one of the more rewarding aspects of teaching.
Persephone proved to be an excellent student. She was attentive and seemed to really enjoy and thrive in the learning environment. This made Dorothea smile fondly. She too was a avid learner and loved practicing a new skill or gaining new knowledge. It was nice to see that her future sister felt the same way. It was rather boring to live one way the whole time without ever learning anything new.
Dorothea made gentle suggestions as Persephone took hold of the bow. A hand on an elbow indicated where her pupil should move and how to hold the bow. Persephone took her suggestions in stride. When it was finally time for her to try and shoot, Dorothea took a step back and nodded confidently at her student.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a first lesson if all went smoothly. Persephone’s arrow failed to leave her bow, causing the woman to drop both and jump back. It was hardly the first time Dorothea had witnessed such an event and far be it from her to laugh at a student’s mistake. She did smile a bit though, as Persephone let out a giggle.
“It could have been worse,” Dorothea said, smiling as she bent down to pick up Persephone’s weapon. She disentangled the arrow from the bow, checking the string to see if it needed to be tightened. With ease, she corrected the instrument and held it back out to her friend. “Try again?”
This incident might worry students and she didn’t want Persephone to fear the bow. “This time, keep your arm up, even as you let go of the string. Maintain your position. Don’t let your arm twist in.” Dorothea waited until Persephone took the bow again, holding it back in the shooting position. “Now, before you let go, take a breath. Look at the target. Close your eyes and envision the target and your arrow striking it.” Dorothea spoke slowly, almost meditatively, waiting for Persephone to go through the steps. “Good. Now, breathe again and release on the exhale.”
She watched as Persephone released the arrow, watching it fly as it hadn’t upon the first time. It managed to clip the bottom of the target, hanging on as if for dear life. It was a valiant effort for a second shot.
“How did that feel?” she asked. She didn’t care where the arrow landed – that was something they could work on later. She wanted to know more about the feelings Persephone went though.
Persephone quelled her giggled but was pleased that Dorothea seemed amused alongside her. For this lesson was only partially about learning the ways of a bow and arrow. But also about bonding with her future sister. Their ages were not dissimilar and whilst the worlds they had grown up in were entirely different, the family units to which they belonged were not so. Despite being a ruling family rather than a side royal branch, the House of Xanthos had always been a group that operated more as a normal familial base than solely a dynasty. The additional pressures of royalty had always been added on top.
Pushing away such thoughts. Persephone focused on the here and now, bringing herself into this moment with Dorothea and the moment of sisterhood they could hold through so simple a task as learning archery. Not that archery itself was simple, as Persephone was starting to realise.
When she had seen archery performed at shows, festivals or in military displays, she had never thought the skill to be one of great ease of effort but the singular motion of drawing and releasing certainly made the art appear less complex than some other instruments or techniques of war. One fluid motion and the arrow was already winging its way towards the enemy. But in reality, it was all far more complex than that.
This time, as Dorothea aided her with corrections and Persephone was a good enough student to listen to them, she was able to release the arrow in a strike that didn't fly particularly fast or deadly in its manner but did reach the target in question. The arrow head - not given enough force by means of its release - sunk a little ways into the bottom edge of the target and then became victim to gravity as its rear drooped and the head was forced to hold on to the coiled rope that completed the target's face.
Still. It was a significantly more successful shot than the first time. And Persephone stared at the arrow as she lowered the bow in a manner that appeared distracted and far away. She stared at that target with a thoughtful look upon her face that probably prompted Dorothea's next question.
Persephone's eyes narrowed a little as she considered how the process had made her feel, how becoming one with the bow and shooting an arrow through the sky had made her reaction mentally. In truth, it was a strange reaction.
"It made me frightened." She admitted, without thinking to censor her words or explain them, as she stood up straight, took a long and slow inhale and held the end of the bow in both hands whilst its other braced itself upon the grass...
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Persephone quelled her giggled but was pleased that Dorothea seemed amused alongside her. For this lesson was only partially about learning the ways of a bow and arrow. But also about bonding with her future sister. Their ages were not dissimilar and whilst the worlds they had grown up in were entirely different, the family units to which they belonged were not so. Despite being a ruling family rather than a side royal branch, the House of Xanthos had always been a group that operated more as a normal familial base than solely a dynasty. The additional pressures of royalty had always been added on top.
Pushing away such thoughts. Persephone focused on the here and now, bringing herself into this moment with Dorothea and the moment of sisterhood they could hold through so simple a task as learning archery. Not that archery itself was simple, as Persephone was starting to realise.
When she had seen archery performed at shows, festivals or in military displays, she had never thought the skill to be one of great ease of effort but the singular motion of drawing and releasing certainly made the art appear less complex than some other instruments or techniques of war. One fluid motion and the arrow was already winging its way towards the enemy. But in reality, it was all far more complex than that.
This time, as Dorothea aided her with corrections and Persephone was a good enough student to listen to them, she was able to release the arrow in a strike that didn't fly particularly fast or deadly in its manner but did reach the target in question. The arrow head - not given enough force by means of its release - sunk a little ways into the bottom edge of the target and then became victim to gravity as its rear drooped and the head was forced to hold on to the coiled rope that completed the target's face.
Still. It was a significantly more successful shot than the first time. And Persephone stared at the arrow as she lowered the bow in a manner that appeared distracted and far away. She stared at that target with a thoughtful look upon her face that probably prompted Dorothea's next question.
Persephone's eyes narrowed a little as she considered how the process had made her feel, how becoming one with the bow and shooting an arrow through the sky had made her reaction mentally. In truth, it was a strange reaction.
"It made me frightened." She admitted, without thinking to censor her words or explain them, as she stood up straight, took a long and slow inhale and held the end of the bow in both hands whilst its other braced itself upon the grass...
Persephone quelled her giggled but was pleased that Dorothea seemed amused alongside her. For this lesson was only partially about learning the ways of a bow and arrow. But also about bonding with her future sister. Their ages were not dissimilar and whilst the worlds they had grown up in were entirely different, the family units to which they belonged were not so. Despite being a ruling family rather than a side royal branch, the House of Xanthos had always been a group that operated more as a normal familial base than solely a dynasty. The additional pressures of royalty had always been added on top.
Pushing away such thoughts. Persephone focused on the here and now, bringing herself into this moment with Dorothea and the moment of sisterhood they could hold through so simple a task as learning archery. Not that archery itself was simple, as Persephone was starting to realise.
When she had seen archery performed at shows, festivals or in military displays, she had never thought the skill to be one of great ease of effort but the singular motion of drawing and releasing certainly made the art appear less complex than some other instruments or techniques of war. One fluid motion and the arrow was already winging its way towards the enemy. But in reality, it was all far more complex than that.
This time, as Dorothea aided her with corrections and Persephone was a good enough student to listen to them, she was able to release the arrow in a strike that didn't fly particularly fast or deadly in its manner but did reach the target in question. The arrow head - not given enough force by means of its release - sunk a little ways into the bottom edge of the target and then became victim to gravity as its rear drooped and the head was forced to hold on to the coiled rope that completed the target's face.
Still. It was a significantly more successful shot than the first time. And Persephone stared at the arrow as she lowered the bow in a manner that appeared distracted and far away. She stared at that target with a thoughtful look upon her face that probably prompted Dorothea's next question.
Persephone's eyes narrowed a little as she considered how the process had made her feel, how becoming one with the bow and shooting an arrow through the sky had made her reaction mentally. In truth, it was a strange reaction.
"It made me frightened." She admitted, without thinking to censor her words or explain them, as she stood up straight, took a long and slow inhale and held the end of the bow in both hands whilst its other braced itself upon the grass...
Teaching perhaps was one of the things Dorothea enjoyed the most about her hobby. While it was fun to shoot and see what she could challenge herself to do, there was nothing more challenging than teaching a student. It hadn’t taken Dorothea long to realize that her arrow finding its target was never going to be all that much of a challenge for her. She had always been able to make it happen, no matter how difficult the shot. Of course, she challenged herself often, but that didn’t mean that it didn’t sometimes grow boring. Teaching, on the other hand, was almost always interesting.
It was a pleasure to be able to give this gift to her new sister. Persephone had never needed to shoot anything in her life and Dorothea had always relied on her talents. She wished for every woman to feel as empowered as she did when wielding a weapon. Even if Persephone didn’t think that she was all that good, Dorothea only had to remind her that she had never held a bow before this morning. That was a vast improvement indeed.
Dorothea observed Persephone carefully as she shot again. This time the arrow managed to clip the target, which was a vast improvement. She would only continue to get better with more practice, Dorothea was sure. She liked to ask all of her students how they felt. It helped her to gain an understanding of what was going on in their minds when they were shooting. Dorothea felt a calm focus whenever she held her weapon. It was her comfort and her joy. When she was overwhelmed, she knew she could come back to her bow and it would always be there for her. She knew she could accomplish whatever she wanted with it in her hand. But of course, those were the thoughts of someone who was relatively accomplished with it. A beginner always had something else.
She waited patiently as Persephone took a moment to think about her feelings. Dorothea wasn’t expecting a simple answer, but she was curious about what was going on in the other woman’s head. When Persephone finally answered, Dorothea found she wasn’t all that surprised. She wanted to know more, though.
“Why is that?” she asked gently. She would pass no judgment—Persephone was entitled to feel however she wanted. “Come sit for a moment,” she added, motioning to the bench nearby. It would give the both of them a moment to regroup before practicing once again.
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Teaching perhaps was one of the things Dorothea enjoyed the most about her hobby. While it was fun to shoot and see what she could challenge herself to do, there was nothing more challenging than teaching a student. It hadn’t taken Dorothea long to realize that her arrow finding its target was never going to be all that much of a challenge for her. She had always been able to make it happen, no matter how difficult the shot. Of course, she challenged herself often, but that didn’t mean that it didn’t sometimes grow boring. Teaching, on the other hand, was almost always interesting.
It was a pleasure to be able to give this gift to her new sister. Persephone had never needed to shoot anything in her life and Dorothea had always relied on her talents. She wished for every woman to feel as empowered as she did when wielding a weapon. Even if Persephone didn’t think that she was all that good, Dorothea only had to remind her that she had never held a bow before this morning. That was a vast improvement indeed.
Dorothea observed Persephone carefully as she shot again. This time the arrow managed to clip the target, which was a vast improvement. She would only continue to get better with more practice, Dorothea was sure. She liked to ask all of her students how they felt. It helped her to gain an understanding of what was going on in their minds when they were shooting. Dorothea felt a calm focus whenever she held her weapon. It was her comfort and her joy. When she was overwhelmed, she knew she could come back to her bow and it would always be there for her. She knew she could accomplish whatever she wanted with it in her hand. But of course, those were the thoughts of someone who was relatively accomplished with it. A beginner always had something else.
She waited patiently as Persephone took a moment to think about her feelings. Dorothea wasn’t expecting a simple answer, but she was curious about what was going on in the other woman’s head. When Persephone finally answered, Dorothea found she wasn’t all that surprised. She wanted to know more, though.
“Why is that?” she asked gently. She would pass no judgment—Persephone was entitled to feel however she wanted. “Come sit for a moment,” she added, motioning to the bench nearby. It would give the both of them a moment to regroup before practicing once again.
Teaching perhaps was one of the things Dorothea enjoyed the most about her hobby. While it was fun to shoot and see what she could challenge herself to do, there was nothing more challenging than teaching a student. It hadn’t taken Dorothea long to realize that her arrow finding its target was never going to be all that much of a challenge for her. She had always been able to make it happen, no matter how difficult the shot. Of course, she challenged herself often, but that didn’t mean that it didn’t sometimes grow boring. Teaching, on the other hand, was almost always interesting.
It was a pleasure to be able to give this gift to her new sister. Persephone had never needed to shoot anything in her life and Dorothea had always relied on her talents. She wished for every woman to feel as empowered as she did when wielding a weapon. Even if Persephone didn’t think that she was all that good, Dorothea only had to remind her that she had never held a bow before this morning. That was a vast improvement indeed.
Dorothea observed Persephone carefully as she shot again. This time the arrow managed to clip the target, which was a vast improvement. She would only continue to get better with more practice, Dorothea was sure. She liked to ask all of her students how they felt. It helped her to gain an understanding of what was going on in their minds when they were shooting. Dorothea felt a calm focus whenever she held her weapon. It was her comfort and her joy. When she was overwhelmed, she knew she could come back to her bow and it would always be there for her. She knew she could accomplish whatever she wanted with it in her hand. But of course, those were the thoughts of someone who was relatively accomplished with it. A beginner always had something else.
She waited patiently as Persephone took a moment to think about her feelings. Dorothea wasn’t expecting a simple answer, but she was curious about what was going on in the other woman’s head. When Persephone finally answered, Dorothea found she wasn’t all that surprised. She wanted to know more, though.
“Why is that?” she asked gently. She would pass no judgment—Persephone was entitled to feel however she wanted. “Come sit for a moment,” she added, motioning to the bench nearby. It would give the both of them a moment to regroup before practicing once again.
The manner in which Persephone was elegant without conscious thought had been what prompted the rumours of her being blessed by the Gods. Whenever she was attempting to hold her posture, it was always perfect. But this could be said for many a woman of the Athenian - or, in fact - any particular Court. It was the moments in which her thoughts were obviously elsewhere, where she was unaware of being observed or in the times where she simply moved from one activity to the other without mental determination, that had led to such whispers of blessings before she had seen her thirteenth summer. For as she lowered the bow and turned to follow Dorothea's suggestion of finding a seat, it was clear in her manner and frame that she was moved with an effortless grace. As if she weighed nothing, as if her feet hovered over the ground, every motion of limb and body was fluid and graceful.
Not that Persephone noticed anymore.
Instead, she simply followed her future sister towards a nearby bench, formed from elegant marble with veins of dark grey crackling beneath its smooth surface and took her place beside her. Arranging her skirts and then holding the bow across her knees, Persephone was carefully in the manner in which she held it. Her hands were dainty as they supported the arching wood between her finger tips and her nails brushed at the end of the stitching where a grip had been fastened to its central curve. Such movements were subconscious for the rest of Persephone's attention was centred ahead of her, looking towards the target she had only gently wounded with her arrow. A slight furrow had appeared between her brows as Dorothea asked her to explain such a comment and she searched for the right words so that she could do so...
"I am unsure as to whether I can formulate the notion into words, but I shall try." She told the girl with a soft smile of bemusement at her own loss of alacrity. She kept her gaze forward as she spoke...
"All that I have done or that has been expected of me has been an extension and detachment from myself." She stated, carefully. "I might have held power or skill in something but such... effects that they might yield onto another were detached from myself as an individual. I would sign a document and men would carry out such an order. I would make a command and a reactive response would occur miles away... My power as a princess was vast but... enacted not by my own hands." Her gaze turned to look down upon the bow she still held, her fingertips following the grain of the bent wood. "Now I am presented with the first of such skills and find myself woefully inadequate as any learning apprentice must be... but I am... fearful of the reminder that without my authority as a royal figure, I have little if anything at all to offer your brother." She looked around at Dorothea with an open and honest expression that gave way to true self-awareness. "I feel as if I were blessed with the skill of utilising a particular source of power and then such a source has been removed... Leaving me ignorant of all ways I might acquire it with my own hands."
She wondered if her words made any sort of sense... If Dorothea might be able to recognise such a feeling of loss if her bow was suddenly taken from her. Persephone wasn't feeling low in her own self esteem. Only impotent in the lack of viable skills for the life that now lay before her feet. A life very different from the one that she had been trained to expect and handle. This little exercise had served to remind her of limitations of her own self. A frightening concept for anyone; to know that you must begin your life again and anew… accepting the years of study that must now replace the decades already determined as useless.
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The manner in which Persephone was elegant without conscious thought had been what prompted the rumours of her being blessed by the Gods. Whenever she was attempting to hold her posture, it was always perfect. But this could be said for many a woman of the Athenian - or, in fact - any particular Court. It was the moments in which her thoughts were obviously elsewhere, where she was unaware of being observed or in the times where she simply moved from one activity to the other without mental determination, that had led to such whispers of blessings before she had seen her thirteenth summer. For as she lowered the bow and turned to follow Dorothea's suggestion of finding a seat, it was clear in her manner and frame that she was moved with an effortless grace. As if she weighed nothing, as if her feet hovered over the ground, every motion of limb and body was fluid and graceful.
Not that Persephone noticed anymore.
Instead, she simply followed her future sister towards a nearby bench, formed from elegant marble with veins of dark grey crackling beneath its smooth surface and took her place beside her. Arranging her skirts and then holding the bow across her knees, Persephone was carefully in the manner in which she held it. Her hands were dainty as they supported the arching wood between her finger tips and her nails brushed at the end of the stitching where a grip had been fastened to its central curve. Such movements were subconscious for the rest of Persephone's attention was centred ahead of her, looking towards the target she had only gently wounded with her arrow. A slight furrow had appeared between her brows as Dorothea asked her to explain such a comment and she searched for the right words so that she could do so...
"I am unsure as to whether I can formulate the notion into words, but I shall try." She told the girl with a soft smile of bemusement at her own loss of alacrity. She kept her gaze forward as she spoke...
"All that I have done or that has been expected of me has been an extension and detachment from myself." She stated, carefully. "I might have held power or skill in something but such... effects that they might yield onto another were detached from myself as an individual. I would sign a document and men would carry out such an order. I would make a command and a reactive response would occur miles away... My power as a princess was vast but... enacted not by my own hands." Her gaze turned to look down upon the bow she still held, her fingertips following the grain of the bent wood. "Now I am presented with the first of such skills and find myself woefully inadequate as any learning apprentice must be... but I am... fearful of the reminder that without my authority as a royal figure, I have little if anything at all to offer your brother." She looked around at Dorothea with an open and honest expression that gave way to true self-awareness. "I feel as if I were blessed with the skill of utilising a particular source of power and then such a source has been removed... Leaving me ignorant of all ways I might acquire it with my own hands."
She wondered if her words made any sort of sense... If Dorothea might be able to recognise such a feeling of loss if her bow was suddenly taken from her. Persephone wasn't feeling low in her own self esteem. Only impotent in the lack of viable skills for the life that now lay before her feet. A life very different from the one that she had been trained to expect and handle. This little exercise had served to remind her of limitations of her own self. A frightening concept for anyone; to know that you must begin your life again and anew… accepting the years of study that must now replace the decades already determined as useless.
The manner in which Persephone was elegant without conscious thought had been what prompted the rumours of her being blessed by the Gods. Whenever she was attempting to hold her posture, it was always perfect. But this could be said for many a woman of the Athenian - or, in fact - any particular Court. It was the moments in which her thoughts were obviously elsewhere, where she was unaware of being observed or in the times where she simply moved from one activity to the other without mental determination, that had led to such whispers of blessings before she had seen her thirteenth summer. For as she lowered the bow and turned to follow Dorothea's suggestion of finding a seat, it was clear in her manner and frame that she was moved with an effortless grace. As if she weighed nothing, as if her feet hovered over the ground, every motion of limb and body was fluid and graceful.
Not that Persephone noticed anymore.
Instead, she simply followed her future sister towards a nearby bench, formed from elegant marble with veins of dark grey crackling beneath its smooth surface and took her place beside her. Arranging her skirts and then holding the bow across her knees, Persephone was carefully in the manner in which she held it. Her hands were dainty as they supported the arching wood between her finger tips and her nails brushed at the end of the stitching where a grip had been fastened to its central curve. Such movements were subconscious for the rest of Persephone's attention was centred ahead of her, looking towards the target she had only gently wounded with her arrow. A slight furrow had appeared between her brows as Dorothea asked her to explain such a comment and she searched for the right words so that she could do so...
"I am unsure as to whether I can formulate the notion into words, but I shall try." She told the girl with a soft smile of bemusement at her own loss of alacrity. She kept her gaze forward as she spoke...
"All that I have done or that has been expected of me has been an extension and detachment from myself." She stated, carefully. "I might have held power or skill in something but such... effects that they might yield onto another were detached from myself as an individual. I would sign a document and men would carry out such an order. I would make a command and a reactive response would occur miles away... My power as a princess was vast but... enacted not by my own hands." Her gaze turned to look down upon the bow she still held, her fingertips following the grain of the bent wood. "Now I am presented with the first of such skills and find myself woefully inadequate as any learning apprentice must be... but I am... fearful of the reminder that without my authority as a royal figure, I have little if anything at all to offer your brother." She looked around at Dorothea with an open and honest expression that gave way to true self-awareness. "I feel as if I were blessed with the skill of utilising a particular source of power and then such a source has been removed... Leaving me ignorant of all ways I might acquire it with my own hands."
She wondered if her words made any sort of sense... If Dorothea might be able to recognise such a feeling of loss if her bow was suddenly taken from her. Persephone wasn't feeling low in her own self esteem. Only impotent in the lack of viable skills for the life that now lay before her feet. A life very different from the one that she had been trained to expect and handle. This little exercise had served to remind her of limitations of her own self. A frightening concept for anyone; to know that you must begin your life again and anew… accepting the years of study that must now replace the decades already determined as useless.
Dorothea sat, silent, as Persephone attempted to explain her feelings. A part of this felt so intensely familiar, as if the woman sitting next to her really was her sister. She had had these same heart to hearts with Iason many times and was beginning to have them with Alexa. Though Alexa was still too young and Dorothea still felt too much like a mother to her for them to dive deep yet. And even though she and Iason knew the cores of each other, there was still something different about speaking with a woman her own age. It wasn’t something Dorothea had experienced before. And she liked it. This camaraderie between the two of them felt like something she had been missing out on her entire life.
Of course, Persephone’s words reminded her that they weren’t actually related. Dorothea had not known that same life. She hadn’t ever had such power and although she was certain she never wanted something like it, the potential of such freedom was alluring. Though she supposed that in some ways she could understand what the queen was saying. Dorothea knew that if put in the other woman’s shoes, without her own methods of living and usefulness, she would feel utterly at a loss. That was one of the many reasons why she didn’t want to get married. How could she function if she was no longer expected to be part of the hunt and instead was supposed to be waiting at home for the hunters to come back. That simply was not who Dorothea was.
Perhaps it was that connection that caused such a strong reaction in her, but Dorothea reached out and squeezed Persephone’s hands. “Although I haven’t lived such a life as yours, I feel as though I can relate. My father desperately wants me to get married, but to live that life would be to take away everything I know. Everything I am good at. Everything I was raised to do. For me, to live my life without those things that make me me is almost unthinkable.”
And as she said it, Dorothea wondered what that meant for Persephone. The way she was describing her life seemed to shout that she wanted it back. And that was within her power. Or at least, it was in her power to try. She couldn’t expect to stay here with them and life a simple life. Not when she was born to rule. As much as Iason might dream it to be true, Dorothea could not imagine it for Persephone.
“We all adapt,” she began, not quite wanting to address what she was thinking. “Give it time. And you certainly don’t have to start shooting things to contribute. There are plenty of us here that like it well enough to do it for everyone.” Dorothea smiled at that, winking. “But I believe that my brother loves you. You offer enough to him. Don’t feel as though you have to change yourself overnight. Like when you learned things growing up, I’m sure it took time, yes? The same thing will happen here.”
While she was certain of that, what Dorothea was not so certain of as that Persephone would stay. Dorothea thought that perhaps if she was in the queen’s position, she wouldn’t. Would love be enough? Rather, which love was more important? Love of a man or love of a country?
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Dorothea sat, silent, as Persephone attempted to explain her feelings. A part of this felt so intensely familiar, as if the woman sitting next to her really was her sister. She had had these same heart to hearts with Iason many times and was beginning to have them with Alexa. Though Alexa was still too young and Dorothea still felt too much like a mother to her for them to dive deep yet. And even though she and Iason knew the cores of each other, there was still something different about speaking with a woman her own age. It wasn’t something Dorothea had experienced before. And she liked it. This camaraderie between the two of them felt like something she had been missing out on her entire life.
Of course, Persephone’s words reminded her that they weren’t actually related. Dorothea had not known that same life. She hadn’t ever had such power and although she was certain she never wanted something like it, the potential of such freedom was alluring. Though she supposed that in some ways she could understand what the queen was saying. Dorothea knew that if put in the other woman’s shoes, without her own methods of living and usefulness, she would feel utterly at a loss. That was one of the many reasons why she didn’t want to get married. How could she function if she was no longer expected to be part of the hunt and instead was supposed to be waiting at home for the hunters to come back. That simply was not who Dorothea was.
Perhaps it was that connection that caused such a strong reaction in her, but Dorothea reached out and squeezed Persephone’s hands. “Although I haven’t lived such a life as yours, I feel as though I can relate. My father desperately wants me to get married, but to live that life would be to take away everything I know. Everything I am good at. Everything I was raised to do. For me, to live my life without those things that make me me is almost unthinkable.”
And as she said it, Dorothea wondered what that meant for Persephone. The way she was describing her life seemed to shout that she wanted it back. And that was within her power. Or at least, it was in her power to try. She couldn’t expect to stay here with them and life a simple life. Not when she was born to rule. As much as Iason might dream it to be true, Dorothea could not imagine it for Persephone.
“We all adapt,” she began, not quite wanting to address what she was thinking. “Give it time. And you certainly don’t have to start shooting things to contribute. There are plenty of us here that like it well enough to do it for everyone.” Dorothea smiled at that, winking. “But I believe that my brother loves you. You offer enough to him. Don’t feel as though you have to change yourself overnight. Like when you learned things growing up, I’m sure it took time, yes? The same thing will happen here.”
While she was certain of that, what Dorothea was not so certain of as that Persephone would stay. Dorothea thought that perhaps if she was in the queen’s position, she wouldn’t. Would love be enough? Rather, which love was more important? Love of a man or love of a country?
Dorothea sat, silent, as Persephone attempted to explain her feelings. A part of this felt so intensely familiar, as if the woman sitting next to her really was her sister. She had had these same heart to hearts with Iason many times and was beginning to have them with Alexa. Though Alexa was still too young and Dorothea still felt too much like a mother to her for them to dive deep yet. And even though she and Iason knew the cores of each other, there was still something different about speaking with a woman her own age. It wasn’t something Dorothea had experienced before. And she liked it. This camaraderie between the two of them felt like something she had been missing out on her entire life.
Of course, Persephone’s words reminded her that they weren’t actually related. Dorothea had not known that same life. She hadn’t ever had such power and although she was certain she never wanted something like it, the potential of such freedom was alluring. Though she supposed that in some ways she could understand what the queen was saying. Dorothea knew that if put in the other woman’s shoes, without her own methods of living and usefulness, she would feel utterly at a loss. That was one of the many reasons why she didn’t want to get married. How could she function if she was no longer expected to be part of the hunt and instead was supposed to be waiting at home for the hunters to come back. That simply was not who Dorothea was.
Perhaps it was that connection that caused such a strong reaction in her, but Dorothea reached out and squeezed Persephone’s hands. “Although I haven’t lived such a life as yours, I feel as though I can relate. My father desperately wants me to get married, but to live that life would be to take away everything I know. Everything I am good at. Everything I was raised to do. For me, to live my life without those things that make me me is almost unthinkable.”
And as she said it, Dorothea wondered what that meant for Persephone. The way she was describing her life seemed to shout that she wanted it back. And that was within her power. Or at least, it was in her power to try. She couldn’t expect to stay here with them and life a simple life. Not when she was born to rule. As much as Iason might dream it to be true, Dorothea could not imagine it for Persephone.
“We all adapt,” she began, not quite wanting to address what she was thinking. “Give it time. And you certainly don’t have to start shooting things to contribute. There are plenty of us here that like it well enough to do it for everyone.” Dorothea smiled at that, winking. “But I believe that my brother loves you. You offer enough to him. Don’t feel as though you have to change yourself overnight. Like when you learned things growing up, I’m sure it took time, yes? The same thing will happen here.”
While she was certain of that, what Dorothea was not so certain of as that Persephone would stay. Dorothea thought that perhaps if she was in the queen’s position, she wouldn’t. Would love be enough? Rather, which love was more important? Love of a man or love of a country?