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Xene leaned a little more sharply against the railing of her balcony, looking down into the gardens of the Palati. She had been raised in this building. This manor as old and as brilliant and luxurious as anyone could truly remember. To her, this was her home. She had taken her first steps in these halls, chased her brothers though the various rooms and into the gardens. She had learned everything she knew in the library and made her first friends in the great hall under the watchful eye of her mother. There were so many good memories here, but even now, the bad memories had started to outweigh the good in a way that was almost demeaning to Xene's own psyche.
To say that she had been utterly stalled, flabbergasted, and stunned by the news that Lord Emilios had brought her was an understatement. The princess had carried this large secret close to her chest through Achilleas coronation and through seeing him off to war. He knew. He was aware, that much she knew, but it did not seem right to start looking to her own future when his was just beginning. Both of them were going through immense changes, transitions. With her favored cousin gone to war, it was finally time to bring the news of it to those that were closest to her.
To those that it affected above all else, whether through blood or connection to herself.
The princess closed her eyes for a moment, breathing in the sweet, earthy scents of the autumn winds. Then she opened them, feeling for the first time that this place was no longer home, but a temporary living space. It no longer belonged to her or her family, but steps needed to be taken to move them into something different. Better. Better for the remaining members of King Zennon's family.
And that was why she had called her sister and her confidant to join her that afternoon. The weather was still somewhat warm, the autumn breeze drifting through the princess' chambers. There was a comfort to this season and how mild it was compared to the hotter months when sometimes it could grow stifling even for the natives.
Dressed in one of her favorite gowns of crimson and gold, the princess had decidedly doned a more Mikaelidas wardrobe that day. The fabric was soft and the gown fit her exquisitley. She had had some help, Kalliope's hands still deft and practiced even without her sight. But Xene did not usually require help dressing herself. Part of her had determined that she would need a second handmaiden before long, but in the relaxed nature of her life now, she didn't need to seek out a new retainer just yet.
Thankfully, after all this time, Kalliope seemed to know the layout of her Xene's chambers without needing to be guided. She would need to be retaught once they moved out of the Palati, but there would be plenty of time for that. Approaching her handmaiden who was carrying a tray of finger foods, Xene reached out to carefully take it from her, bending down to set it on the small table between a circle of chaise lounges. "Kalliope," Xene said very slowly at first, thinking through her words carefully. "My sister, Princess Gianna, and Basilides of Acaris are joining us shortly. I have something to tell all of you, so I would like it if you made yourself comfortable," she noted, giving the girl permission to settle down and wait for the other two guests to join them.
The princess had sent Heron to summon Princess Gianna, and a letter had been sent to Basilides the night before to instruct him to be here for luncheon. It was going to be a quiet, private affair, but there would be much to discuss and Xene needed this to stay small. "I'll take care of the rest of the set up," the princess noted, honestly wanting to keep herself busy as her stomach twisted into anxious knots.
She was equal parts excited and horrified at what she was about to tell them, but it would all turn out for the good of her, her sister, and mother, she was sure. That had been Lord Fotios' point in arranging such a thing for her.
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Xene leaned a little more sharply against the railing of her balcony, looking down into the gardens of the Palati. She had been raised in this building. This manor as old and as brilliant and luxurious as anyone could truly remember. To her, this was her home. She had taken her first steps in these halls, chased her brothers though the various rooms and into the gardens. She had learned everything she knew in the library and made her first friends in the great hall under the watchful eye of her mother. There were so many good memories here, but even now, the bad memories had started to outweigh the good in a way that was almost demeaning to Xene's own psyche.
To say that she had been utterly stalled, flabbergasted, and stunned by the news that Lord Emilios had brought her was an understatement. The princess had carried this large secret close to her chest through Achilleas coronation and through seeing him off to war. He knew. He was aware, that much she knew, but it did not seem right to start looking to her own future when his was just beginning. Both of them were going through immense changes, transitions. With her favored cousin gone to war, it was finally time to bring the news of it to those that were closest to her.
To those that it affected above all else, whether through blood or connection to herself.
The princess closed her eyes for a moment, breathing in the sweet, earthy scents of the autumn winds. Then she opened them, feeling for the first time that this place was no longer home, but a temporary living space. It no longer belonged to her or her family, but steps needed to be taken to move them into something different. Better. Better for the remaining members of King Zennon's family.
And that was why she had called her sister and her confidant to join her that afternoon. The weather was still somewhat warm, the autumn breeze drifting through the princess' chambers. There was a comfort to this season and how mild it was compared to the hotter months when sometimes it could grow stifling even for the natives.
Dressed in one of her favorite gowns of crimson and gold, the princess had decidedly doned a more Mikaelidas wardrobe that day. The fabric was soft and the gown fit her exquisitley. She had had some help, Kalliope's hands still deft and practiced even without her sight. But Xene did not usually require help dressing herself. Part of her had determined that she would need a second handmaiden before long, but in the relaxed nature of her life now, she didn't need to seek out a new retainer just yet.
Thankfully, after all this time, Kalliope seemed to know the layout of her Xene's chambers without needing to be guided. She would need to be retaught once they moved out of the Palati, but there would be plenty of time for that. Approaching her handmaiden who was carrying a tray of finger foods, Xene reached out to carefully take it from her, bending down to set it on the small table between a circle of chaise lounges. "Kalliope," Xene said very slowly at first, thinking through her words carefully. "My sister, Princess Gianna, and Basilides of Acaris are joining us shortly. I have something to tell all of you, so I would like it if you made yourself comfortable," she noted, giving the girl permission to settle down and wait for the other two guests to join them.
The princess had sent Heron to summon Princess Gianna, and a letter had been sent to Basilides the night before to instruct him to be here for luncheon. It was going to be a quiet, private affair, but there would be much to discuss and Xene needed this to stay small. "I'll take care of the rest of the set up," the princess noted, honestly wanting to keep herself busy as her stomach twisted into anxious knots.
She was equal parts excited and horrified at what she was about to tell them, but it would all turn out for the good of her, her sister, and mother, she was sure. That had been Lord Fotios' point in arranging such a thing for her.
Xene leaned a little more sharply against the railing of her balcony, looking down into the gardens of the Palati. She had been raised in this building. This manor as old and as brilliant and luxurious as anyone could truly remember. To her, this was her home. She had taken her first steps in these halls, chased her brothers though the various rooms and into the gardens. She had learned everything she knew in the library and made her first friends in the great hall under the watchful eye of her mother. There were so many good memories here, but even now, the bad memories had started to outweigh the good in a way that was almost demeaning to Xene's own psyche.
To say that she had been utterly stalled, flabbergasted, and stunned by the news that Lord Emilios had brought her was an understatement. The princess had carried this large secret close to her chest through Achilleas coronation and through seeing him off to war. He knew. He was aware, that much she knew, but it did not seem right to start looking to her own future when his was just beginning. Both of them were going through immense changes, transitions. With her favored cousin gone to war, it was finally time to bring the news of it to those that were closest to her.
To those that it affected above all else, whether through blood or connection to herself.
The princess closed her eyes for a moment, breathing in the sweet, earthy scents of the autumn winds. Then she opened them, feeling for the first time that this place was no longer home, but a temporary living space. It no longer belonged to her or her family, but steps needed to be taken to move them into something different. Better. Better for the remaining members of King Zennon's family.
And that was why she had called her sister and her confidant to join her that afternoon. The weather was still somewhat warm, the autumn breeze drifting through the princess' chambers. There was a comfort to this season and how mild it was compared to the hotter months when sometimes it could grow stifling even for the natives.
Dressed in one of her favorite gowns of crimson and gold, the princess had decidedly doned a more Mikaelidas wardrobe that day. The fabric was soft and the gown fit her exquisitley. She had had some help, Kalliope's hands still deft and practiced even without her sight. But Xene did not usually require help dressing herself. Part of her had determined that she would need a second handmaiden before long, but in the relaxed nature of her life now, she didn't need to seek out a new retainer just yet.
Thankfully, after all this time, Kalliope seemed to know the layout of her Xene's chambers without needing to be guided. She would need to be retaught once they moved out of the Palati, but there would be plenty of time for that. Approaching her handmaiden who was carrying a tray of finger foods, Xene reached out to carefully take it from her, bending down to set it on the small table between a circle of chaise lounges. "Kalliope," Xene said very slowly at first, thinking through her words carefully. "My sister, Princess Gianna, and Basilides of Acaris are joining us shortly. I have something to tell all of you, so I would like it if you made yourself comfortable," she noted, giving the girl permission to settle down and wait for the other two guests to join them.
The princess had sent Heron to summon Princess Gianna, and a letter had been sent to Basilides the night before to instruct him to be here for luncheon. It was going to be a quiet, private affair, but there would be much to discuss and Xene needed this to stay small. "I'll take care of the rest of the set up," the princess noted, honestly wanting to keep herself busy as her stomach twisted into anxious knots.
She was equal parts excited and horrified at what she was about to tell them, but it would all turn out for the good of her, her sister, and mother, she was sure. That had been Lord Fotios' point in arranging such a thing for her.
Today was a good day so far with the warm breeze drifting through the halls with a comforting caress, after helping Lady Xene get ready for the day, Kalliope had left not long afterward to get her friend and mistress something to snack on for an early lunch. A bowl of olives still cool from the cellar below; a freshly baked loaf of bread with olive oil to dip in. Bits of roasted lamb wrapped in grape leaves, various fruits and slices of veggies. Her tray was full, but with light foods that would be easy to just snack on. As they spoke earlier, Kalliope noted how distracted her lady sounded, keeping the meal light so Xene could keep doing what she was set out to complete. Kalli was wearing only a light chiton today; soft to the touch and fairly thin in the way the air was able to still keep her cool. It was one of her favorite outfits that she had received while working with Xene and knew that it was nothing inappropriate that would embarrass her ladyship. Kalliope still never knew what color it was, some of the things that she missed from her old life, but without the sense of sight, all of her other senses heightened beautifully.
Stepping into the room, she remembered where everything's placement in the room, avoiding a pilar here and a brazer there. She could hear movement just in front of her, getting closer to Kalliope in a familiar way that alerted the young woman that her mistress was right before her right as the tray left her hands. It was when Xene said her name, how she stated it slowly as if she was carefully thinking through her next words, that Kalliope felt like she suddenly swollowed a stone and it sat in the pit of her stomach. Was she going to get rid of her now? Was she to informal with how they talked in her rooms and somehow insulted her? "Yes, my lady?" Doing as Xene suggested and listening intently, Kalli sat down on the cushion nearby the very table that Xene placed the platter on. So Princess Gianna and Lord Basilides of Acaris would be here in a short while, should she leave for the day? At the comment that she would complete the lunch set up, Kalliope had to speak up, "Is everything ok? You sound... nervous. Whatever it may be, I know you will get through it. In all the time I have been able to serve you, you have been beyond capable to handle everything." There, speaking the truth of how she saw the princess, Kalli really did think that her friend could handle anything that headed her way. Fiddling with the gown as it rested across her legs, Kalliope dared to ask, "What is wrong, my friend?"
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Today was a good day so far with the warm breeze drifting through the halls with a comforting caress, after helping Lady Xene get ready for the day, Kalliope had left not long afterward to get her friend and mistress something to snack on for an early lunch. A bowl of olives still cool from the cellar below; a freshly baked loaf of bread with olive oil to dip in. Bits of roasted lamb wrapped in grape leaves, various fruits and slices of veggies. Her tray was full, but with light foods that would be easy to just snack on. As they spoke earlier, Kalliope noted how distracted her lady sounded, keeping the meal light so Xene could keep doing what she was set out to complete. Kalli was wearing only a light chiton today; soft to the touch and fairly thin in the way the air was able to still keep her cool. It was one of her favorite outfits that she had received while working with Xene and knew that it was nothing inappropriate that would embarrass her ladyship. Kalliope still never knew what color it was, some of the things that she missed from her old life, but without the sense of sight, all of her other senses heightened beautifully.
Stepping into the room, she remembered where everything's placement in the room, avoiding a pilar here and a brazer there. She could hear movement just in front of her, getting closer to Kalliope in a familiar way that alerted the young woman that her mistress was right before her right as the tray left her hands. It was when Xene said her name, how she stated it slowly as if she was carefully thinking through her next words, that Kalliope felt like she suddenly swollowed a stone and it sat in the pit of her stomach. Was she going to get rid of her now? Was she to informal with how they talked in her rooms and somehow insulted her? "Yes, my lady?" Doing as Xene suggested and listening intently, Kalli sat down on the cushion nearby the very table that Xene placed the platter on. So Princess Gianna and Lord Basilides of Acaris would be here in a short while, should she leave for the day? At the comment that she would complete the lunch set up, Kalliope had to speak up, "Is everything ok? You sound... nervous. Whatever it may be, I know you will get through it. In all the time I have been able to serve you, you have been beyond capable to handle everything." There, speaking the truth of how she saw the princess, Kalli really did think that her friend could handle anything that headed her way. Fiddling with the gown as it rested across her legs, Kalliope dared to ask, "What is wrong, my friend?"
Today was a good day so far with the warm breeze drifting through the halls with a comforting caress, after helping Lady Xene get ready for the day, Kalliope had left not long afterward to get her friend and mistress something to snack on for an early lunch. A bowl of olives still cool from the cellar below; a freshly baked loaf of bread with olive oil to dip in. Bits of roasted lamb wrapped in grape leaves, various fruits and slices of veggies. Her tray was full, but with light foods that would be easy to just snack on. As they spoke earlier, Kalliope noted how distracted her lady sounded, keeping the meal light so Xene could keep doing what she was set out to complete. Kalli was wearing only a light chiton today; soft to the touch and fairly thin in the way the air was able to still keep her cool. It was one of her favorite outfits that she had received while working with Xene and knew that it was nothing inappropriate that would embarrass her ladyship. Kalliope still never knew what color it was, some of the things that she missed from her old life, but without the sense of sight, all of her other senses heightened beautifully.
Stepping into the room, she remembered where everything's placement in the room, avoiding a pilar here and a brazer there. She could hear movement just in front of her, getting closer to Kalliope in a familiar way that alerted the young woman that her mistress was right before her right as the tray left her hands. It was when Xene said her name, how she stated it slowly as if she was carefully thinking through her next words, that Kalliope felt like she suddenly swollowed a stone and it sat in the pit of her stomach. Was she going to get rid of her now? Was she to informal with how they talked in her rooms and somehow insulted her? "Yes, my lady?" Doing as Xene suggested and listening intently, Kalli sat down on the cushion nearby the very table that Xene placed the platter on. So Princess Gianna and Lord Basilides of Acaris would be here in a short while, should she leave for the day? At the comment that she would complete the lunch set up, Kalliope had to speak up, "Is everything ok? You sound... nervous. Whatever it may be, I know you will get through it. In all the time I have been able to serve you, you have been beyond capable to handle everything." There, speaking the truth of how she saw the princess, Kalli really did think that her friend could handle anything that headed her way. Fiddling with the gown as it rested across her legs, Kalliope dared to ask, "What is wrong, my friend?"
Gianna had spent the morning in a perfumed bath, the oils thick as she swirled them across the surface of the water before massaging them into her skin. Elpis had taken particular care that morning as there were a number of purple blossoms floating in the bath in addition to the customary oils. She routinely soaked until the water became too cold to bear, but this morning the princess had waited until the tips of her fingers ached from the wrinkles that had formed. And so she had moved her luxuriation to the looking glass in her bed chambers.
Elpis assisted her with dressing—she had chosen a brightly hued purple gown in an attempt to lift her mood since seeing her cousin off to war. She was choosing to focus on what she could control during these days when so much seemed beyond her influence. Her gaze absentmindedly drifted over her various pieces of gold and silver as her retainer toyed with her hair. It did not take long for Elpis to pull a select few strands away from Gianna’s face, pulling them from either side of the princess’s head and securing them in a thin braid at the nape of her neck.
Gianna ran her hand over a simple necklace as Elpis disappeared from sight, returning moments later with little purple flowers in her hand. She set about carefully placing them into the braid she had just created. Satisfied with her work, she stepped back and looked to her Lady for approval. Gianna nodded, releasing the young woman to whatever else she had on her agenda for the morning and her hand closed around a clear, oddly shaped gem hanging on a silver chain. Just the right amount of adornment without being disproportionate to the chiton she had selected.
There was a knock on the door of her chambers just as she slid a pair of plain silver bangles onto her wrist. Having released her handmaid, Gianna rose from her seat. She was rarely called upon these days, so she was a bit wary as she opened the door to find Heron standing a respectful distance from the doorway. The man greeted her and informed her that Princess Xene had requested her presence for a luncheon. “Heron… All is well with my sister, I hope?” He offered her no response to her inquiry, but indicated that he was to escort her to Xene’s quarters.
Lest she keep her sister waiting any longer, Gianna slipped her feet into her most comfortable leather sandals before allowing Heron to lead her through the familiar hallways. How many times had she made this journey in her twenty-two years? How often would she make a mad dash for her sister’s bedchambers in the middle of the night after a bad dream? Or just because she did not want to be alone in the night?
Entering her sister’s chambers was familiar, comfortable. It was akin to stepping into the past for a fleeting moment, before she noticed Xene’s retainer nervously settled on a kline as Xene herself was up and fretting about the room. Gianna moved deeper into the scene, collecting a handful of olives before settling down next to Kalliope. She took the girl’s hand in her own and offered a gentle squeeze as she softly greeted the other blonde before turning her attention to Xene.
“I agree with Kalliope, you seem nervous. Should we be worried, sister?”
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Gianna had spent the morning in a perfumed bath, the oils thick as she swirled them across the surface of the water before massaging them into her skin. Elpis had taken particular care that morning as there were a number of purple blossoms floating in the bath in addition to the customary oils. She routinely soaked until the water became too cold to bear, but this morning the princess had waited until the tips of her fingers ached from the wrinkles that had formed. And so she had moved her luxuriation to the looking glass in her bed chambers.
Elpis assisted her with dressing—she had chosen a brightly hued purple gown in an attempt to lift her mood since seeing her cousin off to war. She was choosing to focus on what she could control during these days when so much seemed beyond her influence. Her gaze absentmindedly drifted over her various pieces of gold and silver as her retainer toyed with her hair. It did not take long for Elpis to pull a select few strands away from Gianna’s face, pulling them from either side of the princess’s head and securing them in a thin braid at the nape of her neck.
Gianna ran her hand over a simple necklace as Elpis disappeared from sight, returning moments later with little purple flowers in her hand. She set about carefully placing them into the braid she had just created. Satisfied with her work, she stepped back and looked to her Lady for approval. Gianna nodded, releasing the young woman to whatever else she had on her agenda for the morning and her hand closed around a clear, oddly shaped gem hanging on a silver chain. Just the right amount of adornment without being disproportionate to the chiton she had selected.
There was a knock on the door of her chambers just as she slid a pair of plain silver bangles onto her wrist. Having released her handmaid, Gianna rose from her seat. She was rarely called upon these days, so she was a bit wary as she opened the door to find Heron standing a respectful distance from the doorway. The man greeted her and informed her that Princess Xene had requested her presence for a luncheon. “Heron… All is well with my sister, I hope?” He offered her no response to her inquiry, but indicated that he was to escort her to Xene’s quarters.
Lest she keep her sister waiting any longer, Gianna slipped her feet into her most comfortable leather sandals before allowing Heron to lead her through the familiar hallways. How many times had she made this journey in her twenty-two years? How often would she make a mad dash for her sister’s bedchambers in the middle of the night after a bad dream? Or just because she did not want to be alone in the night?
Entering her sister’s chambers was familiar, comfortable. It was akin to stepping into the past for a fleeting moment, before she noticed Xene’s retainer nervously settled on a kline as Xene herself was up and fretting about the room. Gianna moved deeper into the scene, collecting a handful of olives before settling down next to Kalliope. She took the girl’s hand in her own and offered a gentle squeeze as she softly greeted the other blonde before turning her attention to Xene.
“I agree with Kalliope, you seem nervous. Should we be worried, sister?”
Gianna had spent the morning in a perfumed bath, the oils thick as she swirled them across the surface of the water before massaging them into her skin. Elpis had taken particular care that morning as there were a number of purple blossoms floating in the bath in addition to the customary oils. She routinely soaked until the water became too cold to bear, but this morning the princess had waited until the tips of her fingers ached from the wrinkles that had formed. And so she had moved her luxuriation to the looking glass in her bed chambers.
Elpis assisted her with dressing—she had chosen a brightly hued purple gown in an attempt to lift her mood since seeing her cousin off to war. She was choosing to focus on what she could control during these days when so much seemed beyond her influence. Her gaze absentmindedly drifted over her various pieces of gold and silver as her retainer toyed with her hair. It did not take long for Elpis to pull a select few strands away from Gianna’s face, pulling them from either side of the princess’s head and securing them in a thin braid at the nape of her neck.
Gianna ran her hand over a simple necklace as Elpis disappeared from sight, returning moments later with little purple flowers in her hand. She set about carefully placing them into the braid she had just created. Satisfied with her work, she stepped back and looked to her Lady for approval. Gianna nodded, releasing the young woman to whatever else she had on her agenda for the morning and her hand closed around a clear, oddly shaped gem hanging on a silver chain. Just the right amount of adornment without being disproportionate to the chiton she had selected.
There was a knock on the door of her chambers just as she slid a pair of plain silver bangles onto her wrist. Having released her handmaid, Gianna rose from her seat. She was rarely called upon these days, so she was a bit wary as she opened the door to find Heron standing a respectful distance from the doorway. The man greeted her and informed her that Princess Xene had requested her presence for a luncheon. “Heron… All is well with my sister, I hope?” He offered her no response to her inquiry, but indicated that he was to escort her to Xene’s quarters.
Lest she keep her sister waiting any longer, Gianna slipped her feet into her most comfortable leather sandals before allowing Heron to lead her through the familiar hallways. How many times had she made this journey in her twenty-two years? How often would she make a mad dash for her sister’s bedchambers in the middle of the night after a bad dream? Or just because she did not want to be alone in the night?
Entering her sister’s chambers was familiar, comfortable. It was akin to stepping into the past for a fleeting moment, before she noticed Xene’s retainer nervously settled on a kline as Xene herself was up and fretting about the room. Gianna moved deeper into the scene, collecting a handful of olives before settling down next to Kalliope. She took the girl’s hand in her own and offered a gentle squeeze as she softly greeted the other blonde before turning her attention to Xene.
“I agree with Kalliope, you seem nervous. Should we be worried, sister?”
It was remarkable how easily Basilides had adjusted the new normal. Well, perhaps 'easily' was not the term to use, given the hefty price of the way he stumbled, crumbled, and fell in the weeks after Zephyrus' death. There were so many questions that lingered and since he felt personally responsible in not being there for his lover, he felt obligated to find some sense of closure.
While attending to Princess Xene's near daily companionship was getting him no closer to closure, it certainly kept him more than pleasantly distracted from the lack of resolution.
And, well, it was fun.
Never in his life did he or his family think he would find himself in such regular, fine company. They reaped the benefits of it, given that he was now a direct connection for any wants or needs of the nobility from fabrics to decor to anything beyond. With his family name attached to the recent Royal Wedding, he found himself quite busy within the Merchant’s Guild as well, with more inquiries than he could typically manage from buyers and sellers from many walks of life. It was simultaneously easier and more difficult to running the logistics and finances for a theatrical troupe, but the best part of it was that…..well, little changed.
The invitation to the luncheon arrived and Basilides prepared himself in usual fashion, wearing a crisp, ivory chiton edged fine, cerulean embroidery in a pattern of overlapping waves. Over his shoulder he wore a rich, deep blue himation, pinned with his Merchant’s Guild fibulae.
Having become a familiar face at the Palati, Basilides was quickly granted entrance and was guided by the a servant to the Royal Wing. Usually, Basilides would bring a satchel carrying various things - a stylus, a bottle of ink, his ledger, and perhaps a letter or two of interest to the Princess, particularly with who was buying what. It always led to something informative of the comings and goings within the Capital and entertained them both. While coin consistently bore value to the merchant, he was learning from the Mikaelidas princess that information could be just as valuable.
Once guided into the Princess Xene’s chambers, he was quick to note the company present, but caught the words shared between her handmaiden and Princess Gianna as he crossed the room. Indeed, his royal companion did not seem much herself, moving about the room instead of sitting in stationary confidence as he had often seen her when welcomed to her casual company. It was clear that a lifetime of courtly decorum kept her countenance firmly in place, but clearly with those in the room who knew her well, something was different.
“Your Highnesses,” Basilides greeted, approaching and offering a bow. He made the slight errant mistake of nodding his head towards Kalliope before stiffening and remembering her condition, quietly adding, “Mistress.”
He let a curious glance flicker between the three women before falling in line with the others and taking a seat in a simple wooden chair, separate from them slightly but in the same circle.
“Are we waiting for others, princess?”he asked, curiously, noting the closeness each of them held to her. If so, she would let them know. If not, then he imagined that she would soon explain why she had them all gathered together in such a way.
Whatever the issue, it was clearly important.
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It was remarkable how easily Basilides had adjusted the new normal. Well, perhaps 'easily' was not the term to use, given the hefty price of the way he stumbled, crumbled, and fell in the weeks after Zephyrus' death. There were so many questions that lingered and since he felt personally responsible in not being there for his lover, he felt obligated to find some sense of closure.
While attending to Princess Xene's near daily companionship was getting him no closer to closure, it certainly kept him more than pleasantly distracted from the lack of resolution.
And, well, it was fun.
Never in his life did he or his family think he would find himself in such regular, fine company. They reaped the benefits of it, given that he was now a direct connection for any wants or needs of the nobility from fabrics to decor to anything beyond. With his family name attached to the recent Royal Wedding, he found himself quite busy within the Merchant’s Guild as well, with more inquiries than he could typically manage from buyers and sellers from many walks of life. It was simultaneously easier and more difficult to running the logistics and finances for a theatrical troupe, but the best part of it was that…..well, little changed.
The invitation to the luncheon arrived and Basilides prepared himself in usual fashion, wearing a crisp, ivory chiton edged fine, cerulean embroidery in a pattern of overlapping waves. Over his shoulder he wore a rich, deep blue himation, pinned with his Merchant’s Guild fibulae.
Having become a familiar face at the Palati, Basilides was quickly granted entrance and was guided by the a servant to the Royal Wing. Usually, Basilides would bring a satchel carrying various things - a stylus, a bottle of ink, his ledger, and perhaps a letter or two of interest to the Princess, particularly with who was buying what. It always led to something informative of the comings and goings within the Capital and entertained them both. While coin consistently bore value to the merchant, he was learning from the Mikaelidas princess that information could be just as valuable.
Once guided into the Princess Xene’s chambers, he was quick to note the company present, but caught the words shared between her handmaiden and Princess Gianna as he crossed the room. Indeed, his royal companion did not seem much herself, moving about the room instead of sitting in stationary confidence as he had often seen her when welcomed to her casual company. It was clear that a lifetime of courtly decorum kept her countenance firmly in place, but clearly with those in the room who knew her well, something was different.
“Your Highnesses,” Basilides greeted, approaching and offering a bow. He made the slight errant mistake of nodding his head towards Kalliope before stiffening and remembering her condition, quietly adding, “Mistress.”
He let a curious glance flicker between the three women before falling in line with the others and taking a seat in a simple wooden chair, separate from them slightly but in the same circle.
“Are we waiting for others, princess?”he asked, curiously, noting the closeness each of them held to her. If so, she would let them know. If not, then he imagined that she would soon explain why she had them all gathered together in such a way.
Whatever the issue, it was clearly important.
It was remarkable how easily Basilides had adjusted the new normal. Well, perhaps 'easily' was not the term to use, given the hefty price of the way he stumbled, crumbled, and fell in the weeks after Zephyrus' death. There were so many questions that lingered and since he felt personally responsible in not being there for his lover, he felt obligated to find some sense of closure.
While attending to Princess Xene's near daily companionship was getting him no closer to closure, it certainly kept him more than pleasantly distracted from the lack of resolution.
And, well, it was fun.
Never in his life did he or his family think he would find himself in such regular, fine company. They reaped the benefits of it, given that he was now a direct connection for any wants or needs of the nobility from fabrics to decor to anything beyond. With his family name attached to the recent Royal Wedding, he found himself quite busy within the Merchant’s Guild as well, with more inquiries than he could typically manage from buyers and sellers from many walks of life. It was simultaneously easier and more difficult to running the logistics and finances for a theatrical troupe, but the best part of it was that…..well, little changed.
The invitation to the luncheon arrived and Basilides prepared himself in usual fashion, wearing a crisp, ivory chiton edged fine, cerulean embroidery in a pattern of overlapping waves. Over his shoulder he wore a rich, deep blue himation, pinned with his Merchant’s Guild fibulae.
Having become a familiar face at the Palati, Basilides was quickly granted entrance and was guided by the a servant to the Royal Wing. Usually, Basilides would bring a satchel carrying various things - a stylus, a bottle of ink, his ledger, and perhaps a letter or two of interest to the Princess, particularly with who was buying what. It always led to something informative of the comings and goings within the Capital and entertained them both. While coin consistently bore value to the merchant, he was learning from the Mikaelidas princess that information could be just as valuable.
Once guided into the Princess Xene’s chambers, he was quick to note the company present, but caught the words shared between her handmaiden and Princess Gianna as he crossed the room. Indeed, his royal companion did not seem much herself, moving about the room instead of sitting in stationary confidence as he had often seen her when welcomed to her casual company. It was clear that a lifetime of courtly decorum kept her countenance firmly in place, but clearly with those in the room who knew her well, something was different.
“Your Highnesses,” Basilides greeted, approaching and offering a bow. He made the slight errant mistake of nodding his head towards Kalliope before stiffening and remembering her condition, quietly adding, “Mistress.”
He let a curious glance flicker between the three women before falling in line with the others and taking a seat in a simple wooden chair, separate from them slightly but in the same circle.
“Are we waiting for others, princess?”he asked, curiously, noting the closeness each of them held to her. If so, she would let them know. If not, then he imagined that she would soon explain why she had them all gathered together in such a way.
Whatever the issue, it was clearly important.
Both her retainer and her sister seemed concerned for the fact that Xene was nervous. And she was nervous, though it was not something bad that set her nerves alite. It was the news and the opportunity that she was being given. Something she never would have expected nor dreamed of in all of her life. And now that she had it, the princess was eager to share with the people that she loved the most.
Basilides entered the room right on time and the princess felt herself relax immediately at the sight of him. She felt like she could get through anything, do anything, so long as Basilides stayed at her side. He had become something of a comfort to her over the last weeks, and she relied on his presence far more than she would likely ever admit to anyone. Though, she did want to ensure that he felt appreciated for all of the hard work that he did for her.
Reaching for her cup of wine, Xene brought it to her lips as she considered the four people before her. Kalliope, her sister, Heron, and Basilides. All integral to her in one way or another. All important and all very well cared for and compensated. Honestly, without Kalliope, the princess would surely be lost. It was her friendship that kept the princess' sanity. She only hoped that Kalliope would not be daunted by their eventual change of home and scenery. Having to learn the halls of a new location all over again likely would be an arduous process, but one Xene knew Kalliope would be up to the challenge for.
With all present, the princess took a final swallow of her wine and faced each one of them. "It is nothing to be worried about. Rather... something of great import and excitement both," Xene finally said, giving them all a weak smile.
"I have been given a barony," she said slowly, "Messenis, to be exact," she added slowly. "As Achilleas is now King and Emilios the head of house, no Mikaelidas holds a parcel of land. In an effort to ensure that our branch of the family remains in some sort of power and financially supported, I have been given new responsibilities," she said slowly. "It will be a learning process, but this is... really all that I could have ever asked for," she murmured, "I am equal parts elated and trepidatious, if only because the circumstances of coming into his new position are so poor and untimely," the princess murmured lightly.
"But Lord Emilios has offered us the Mikaelidas manor as our home," Xene said slowly, looking directly at Gianna now. "So that we may find our privacy and so that perhaps mother will feel more secure instead of encroached upon," she continued, giving a weak smile. "I... wanted all of you here because I wanted to hear of your opinions on all of this. It will be a big change, even for you, Basilides," Xene finished carefully. "And I am remiss to accept the new responsibilities and place of residence if you are not happy with such an arrangement, Gianna."
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Both her retainer and her sister seemed concerned for the fact that Xene was nervous. And she was nervous, though it was not something bad that set her nerves alite. It was the news and the opportunity that she was being given. Something she never would have expected nor dreamed of in all of her life. And now that she had it, the princess was eager to share with the people that she loved the most.
Basilides entered the room right on time and the princess felt herself relax immediately at the sight of him. She felt like she could get through anything, do anything, so long as Basilides stayed at her side. He had become something of a comfort to her over the last weeks, and she relied on his presence far more than she would likely ever admit to anyone. Though, she did want to ensure that he felt appreciated for all of the hard work that he did for her.
Reaching for her cup of wine, Xene brought it to her lips as she considered the four people before her. Kalliope, her sister, Heron, and Basilides. All integral to her in one way or another. All important and all very well cared for and compensated. Honestly, without Kalliope, the princess would surely be lost. It was her friendship that kept the princess' sanity. She only hoped that Kalliope would not be daunted by their eventual change of home and scenery. Having to learn the halls of a new location all over again likely would be an arduous process, but one Xene knew Kalliope would be up to the challenge for.
With all present, the princess took a final swallow of her wine and faced each one of them. "It is nothing to be worried about. Rather... something of great import and excitement both," Xene finally said, giving them all a weak smile.
"I have been given a barony," she said slowly, "Messenis, to be exact," she added slowly. "As Achilleas is now King and Emilios the head of house, no Mikaelidas holds a parcel of land. In an effort to ensure that our branch of the family remains in some sort of power and financially supported, I have been given new responsibilities," she said slowly. "It will be a learning process, but this is... really all that I could have ever asked for," she murmured, "I am equal parts elated and trepidatious, if only because the circumstances of coming into his new position are so poor and untimely," the princess murmured lightly.
"But Lord Emilios has offered us the Mikaelidas manor as our home," Xene said slowly, looking directly at Gianna now. "So that we may find our privacy and so that perhaps mother will feel more secure instead of encroached upon," she continued, giving a weak smile. "I... wanted all of you here because I wanted to hear of your opinions on all of this. It will be a big change, even for you, Basilides," Xene finished carefully. "And I am remiss to accept the new responsibilities and place of residence if you are not happy with such an arrangement, Gianna."
Both her retainer and her sister seemed concerned for the fact that Xene was nervous. And she was nervous, though it was not something bad that set her nerves alite. It was the news and the opportunity that she was being given. Something she never would have expected nor dreamed of in all of her life. And now that she had it, the princess was eager to share with the people that she loved the most.
Basilides entered the room right on time and the princess felt herself relax immediately at the sight of him. She felt like she could get through anything, do anything, so long as Basilides stayed at her side. He had become something of a comfort to her over the last weeks, and she relied on his presence far more than she would likely ever admit to anyone. Though, she did want to ensure that he felt appreciated for all of the hard work that he did for her.
Reaching for her cup of wine, Xene brought it to her lips as she considered the four people before her. Kalliope, her sister, Heron, and Basilides. All integral to her in one way or another. All important and all very well cared for and compensated. Honestly, without Kalliope, the princess would surely be lost. It was her friendship that kept the princess' sanity. She only hoped that Kalliope would not be daunted by their eventual change of home and scenery. Having to learn the halls of a new location all over again likely would be an arduous process, but one Xene knew Kalliope would be up to the challenge for.
With all present, the princess took a final swallow of her wine and faced each one of them. "It is nothing to be worried about. Rather... something of great import and excitement both," Xene finally said, giving them all a weak smile.
"I have been given a barony," she said slowly, "Messenis, to be exact," she added slowly. "As Achilleas is now King and Emilios the head of house, no Mikaelidas holds a parcel of land. In an effort to ensure that our branch of the family remains in some sort of power and financially supported, I have been given new responsibilities," she said slowly. "It will be a learning process, but this is... really all that I could have ever asked for," she murmured, "I am equal parts elated and trepidatious, if only because the circumstances of coming into his new position are so poor and untimely," the princess murmured lightly.
"But Lord Emilios has offered us the Mikaelidas manor as our home," Xene said slowly, looking directly at Gianna now. "So that we may find our privacy and so that perhaps mother will feel more secure instead of encroached upon," she continued, giving a weak smile. "I... wanted all of you here because I wanted to hear of your opinions on all of this. It will be a big change, even for you, Basilides," Xene finished carefully. "And I am remiss to accept the new responsibilities and place of residence if you are not happy with such an arrangement, Gianna."
The announcement came as somewhat of a surprise to the merchant, not only in the gravity of it, but also in his inclusion in being informed. For some time now, he knew he had achieved what seemed impossible by finding his way into the Princess' company, particularly in so small of a circle.
Basilides was more than familiar with Messenis, having not only enjoyed every venture the troupe made there due to the way the people of the city enjoyed the arts, but also gathering several of their prime performers into their fold. It was a beautiful province, he knew, but he had only ever seen it 'from the ground' as it were, among the people - not in the company of nobility.
And in this case, the new baroness.
Suddenly, he realized what role he may play in this. Part of his particular skillset was with handling financials and resources, not only for the troupe but also now, in his present position with his family's trade. There would be a learning curve, certainly, but knowing the quick mind of the Princess and his own skills brought to the table, along with the undoubtedly knowledgable household staff they would receive.
At the mention of his name, a dark brow rose. It cemented an idea that he thought merely had been batting around inside his head. In closely befriending the young royal, serving as close friends and confidants these passing weeks for one another, he always imagined that was simply how it would remain.
Eventually, he knew he would need to board a ship again to take care of his family's business, even if just between the capital and Acaris. But, from the way Princess Xene made it sound, it seemed as if his role would shift entirely with this new change.
"This is grand news," Basilides noted, knowing that it was a terse line to toe between congratulating her new title as baroness and not offending in knowing that it was due to the need to all but remove her from her childhood home. "When the time comes to make the transition, I am at your disposal, whether for adjusting furnishings to your taste or in any overview of the province ledgers and resources. Or...in whatever other capacity you may need."
The last statement was more of a question - was his position truly changing? Would he need to leave his family business behind? In private conversation, they could continue this, but still, his commitment to standing at Princess Xene's side was resolute.
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The announcement came as somewhat of a surprise to the merchant, not only in the gravity of it, but also in his inclusion in being informed. For some time now, he knew he had achieved what seemed impossible by finding his way into the Princess' company, particularly in so small of a circle.
Basilides was more than familiar with Messenis, having not only enjoyed every venture the troupe made there due to the way the people of the city enjoyed the arts, but also gathering several of their prime performers into their fold. It was a beautiful province, he knew, but he had only ever seen it 'from the ground' as it were, among the people - not in the company of nobility.
And in this case, the new baroness.
Suddenly, he realized what role he may play in this. Part of his particular skillset was with handling financials and resources, not only for the troupe but also now, in his present position with his family's trade. There would be a learning curve, certainly, but knowing the quick mind of the Princess and his own skills brought to the table, along with the undoubtedly knowledgable household staff they would receive.
At the mention of his name, a dark brow rose. It cemented an idea that he thought merely had been batting around inside his head. In closely befriending the young royal, serving as close friends and confidants these passing weeks for one another, he always imagined that was simply how it would remain.
Eventually, he knew he would need to board a ship again to take care of his family's business, even if just between the capital and Acaris. But, from the way Princess Xene made it sound, it seemed as if his role would shift entirely with this new change.
"This is grand news," Basilides noted, knowing that it was a terse line to toe between congratulating her new title as baroness and not offending in knowing that it was due to the need to all but remove her from her childhood home. "When the time comes to make the transition, I am at your disposal, whether for adjusting furnishings to your taste or in any overview of the province ledgers and resources. Or...in whatever other capacity you may need."
The last statement was more of a question - was his position truly changing? Would he need to leave his family business behind? In private conversation, they could continue this, but still, his commitment to standing at Princess Xene's side was resolute.
The announcement came as somewhat of a surprise to the merchant, not only in the gravity of it, but also in his inclusion in being informed. For some time now, he knew he had achieved what seemed impossible by finding his way into the Princess' company, particularly in so small of a circle.
Basilides was more than familiar with Messenis, having not only enjoyed every venture the troupe made there due to the way the people of the city enjoyed the arts, but also gathering several of their prime performers into their fold. It was a beautiful province, he knew, but he had only ever seen it 'from the ground' as it were, among the people - not in the company of nobility.
And in this case, the new baroness.
Suddenly, he realized what role he may play in this. Part of his particular skillset was with handling financials and resources, not only for the troupe but also now, in his present position with his family's trade. There would be a learning curve, certainly, but knowing the quick mind of the Princess and his own skills brought to the table, along with the undoubtedly knowledgable household staff they would receive.
At the mention of his name, a dark brow rose. It cemented an idea that he thought merely had been batting around inside his head. In closely befriending the young royal, serving as close friends and confidants these passing weeks for one another, he always imagined that was simply how it would remain.
Eventually, he knew he would need to board a ship again to take care of his family's business, even if just between the capital and Acaris. But, from the way Princess Xene made it sound, it seemed as if his role would shift entirely with this new change.
"This is grand news," Basilides noted, knowing that it was a terse line to toe between congratulating her new title as baroness and not offending in knowing that it was due to the need to all but remove her from her childhood home. "When the time comes to make the transition, I am at your disposal, whether for adjusting furnishings to your taste or in any overview of the province ledgers and resources. Or...in whatever other capacity you may need."
The last statement was more of a question - was his position truly changing? Would he need to leave his family business behind? In private conversation, they could continue this, but still, his commitment to standing at Princess Xene's side was resolute.
Xene noted the look in her sister's eye. The excitement and the quiet acceptance of the news that had been given to her. It was wonderful news, was it not? Save for the fact that they would soon be moving out of their birth home and into the home of their late uncle. It would be a change, but it would be a change that would allow the current royal family their privacy and Xene and her female family member's their own spot of solitude and quiet contemplation. That was what they needed, no doubt. Never once had the family really been given their time to grief nor to breathe with each event flying directly one after the next.
But then her gaze flit to Basilides, a smile settling on her features at the way the man seemed to perk up at the idea that he was her friend and she was including him into this news. She wanted him to stay close. She would want his help and his support, no matter if he could do little or much to be of service. It didn't matter because he was her confidant and one of her closest friends as of late. She had not gone to pick him back up when he'd fallen just to leave him behind when she knew that she would need him the most.
"This pleases me, Basilides," Xene said softly to her friend, shifting so that she could settle onto one of the chaise lounges instead of stand about and pace back and forth. "I don't think that I could really do any of this without either of you. All of you," the princess said, "There is a deep sense of... fear in me," the admission was soft, but it was real, "I am not sure what I am to expect in the coming months and it would make me feel both happy and safe to know that I had your support. I will not ask more of you than I am willing to take on myself," she noted, shaking her head.
"But your presence when I need you or seek your company will be the least that I will ask of you. And if it comes to a point where I will need you in further capacity, know that you will be my first choice," the princess said softly to Basilides, her smile growing slightly, the gesture affectionate for the man before her.
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Xene noted the look in her sister's eye. The excitement and the quiet acceptance of the news that had been given to her. It was wonderful news, was it not? Save for the fact that they would soon be moving out of their birth home and into the home of their late uncle. It would be a change, but it would be a change that would allow the current royal family their privacy and Xene and her female family member's their own spot of solitude and quiet contemplation. That was what they needed, no doubt. Never once had the family really been given their time to grief nor to breathe with each event flying directly one after the next.
But then her gaze flit to Basilides, a smile settling on her features at the way the man seemed to perk up at the idea that he was her friend and she was including him into this news. She wanted him to stay close. She would want his help and his support, no matter if he could do little or much to be of service. It didn't matter because he was her confidant and one of her closest friends as of late. She had not gone to pick him back up when he'd fallen just to leave him behind when she knew that she would need him the most.
"This pleases me, Basilides," Xene said softly to her friend, shifting so that she could settle onto one of the chaise lounges instead of stand about and pace back and forth. "I don't think that I could really do any of this without either of you. All of you," the princess said, "There is a deep sense of... fear in me," the admission was soft, but it was real, "I am not sure what I am to expect in the coming months and it would make me feel both happy and safe to know that I had your support. I will not ask more of you than I am willing to take on myself," she noted, shaking her head.
"But your presence when I need you or seek your company will be the least that I will ask of you. And if it comes to a point where I will need you in further capacity, know that you will be my first choice," the princess said softly to Basilides, her smile growing slightly, the gesture affectionate for the man before her.
Xene noted the look in her sister's eye. The excitement and the quiet acceptance of the news that had been given to her. It was wonderful news, was it not? Save for the fact that they would soon be moving out of their birth home and into the home of their late uncle. It would be a change, but it would be a change that would allow the current royal family their privacy and Xene and her female family member's their own spot of solitude and quiet contemplation. That was what they needed, no doubt. Never once had the family really been given their time to grief nor to breathe with each event flying directly one after the next.
But then her gaze flit to Basilides, a smile settling on her features at the way the man seemed to perk up at the idea that he was her friend and she was including him into this news. She wanted him to stay close. She would want his help and his support, no matter if he could do little or much to be of service. It didn't matter because he was her confidant and one of her closest friends as of late. She had not gone to pick him back up when he'd fallen just to leave him behind when she knew that she would need him the most.
"This pleases me, Basilides," Xene said softly to her friend, shifting so that she could settle onto one of the chaise lounges instead of stand about and pace back and forth. "I don't think that I could really do any of this without either of you. All of you," the princess said, "There is a deep sense of... fear in me," the admission was soft, but it was real, "I am not sure what I am to expect in the coming months and it would make me feel both happy and safe to know that I had your support. I will not ask more of you than I am willing to take on myself," she noted, shaking her head.
"But your presence when I need you or seek your company will be the least that I will ask of you. And if it comes to a point where I will need you in further capacity, know that you will be my first choice," the princess said softly to Basilides, her smile growing slightly, the gesture affectionate for the man before her.
Gianna carefully considered her sister’s words. Xene was to be the Baroness of Messenis and Elise and Gianna would be expected to embark on this new adventure alongside the eldest princess. As the knowledge continued to settle around her, so did a deep ache, a nostalgic yearning for the home she knew would never return to her. While of course the youngest princess was grieved to be leaving the only home she had ever known, she would be remiss to not admit that it had not been the same in months. Perhaps relocating to one of the outlying baronies would be a refreshing change for the remainder of Zenon’s family.
She had visited their ancestral home, of course, and while she had never imagined herself making a home within the manor walls, it was certainly somewhere she could find respite after recent events. Xene made her point regarding timing, but Gianna found herself in silent disagreement. Her sister may find the timing to be perfect, just what the sisters needed after everything that they had experienced. Of course Xene would be imbued with the additional responsibilities that came with running a baron, but perhaps Gianna could finally breathe once more.
A warmth bloomed in her chest at her sister’s words. Knowing that Xene valued her opinion and her satisfaction confirmed that the pair had seemingly overcome their years of differences. Gianna was careful to guard her emotions, hoping to keep them from crossing her features for once as she turned her attention to Basilides as he proclaimed his excitement and support for the new baroness. She wholly understood the man’s desire to show his commitment to her sister, after all he was a close confidant in addition to the textile services he had provided to the Royal family.
“I cannot help but to agree with Master Basilides. This is excellent news, sister, and most gracious of Emilios,” Gianna started, cautious at first. “While this is certainly not how I had pictured myself leaving Vasiliádon, I cannot imagine a finer selection to take his place in Messenis.” She studied her sister for a moment as the woman reclined on a chaise lounge, ever the picture of elegance. The younger Mikaelidas stood from her position to pace the room as she continued, “I will of course have a number of stipulations that must be met before I can agree to such an arrangement, the most important being the relocation of my beloved Alcaeus.”
Gianna could no longer keep her solemn guise and she broke into a girlish smile as she crossed the room to kneel in front of Xene, taking the woman’s hands into her own. “Oh sister, you will be a most wonderful baroness!” She kissed the back of her sister’s hands in turn and gazed up at Xene. “What a marvelous adventure we shall have!”
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Gianna carefully considered her sister’s words. Xene was to be the Baroness of Messenis and Elise and Gianna would be expected to embark on this new adventure alongside the eldest princess. As the knowledge continued to settle around her, so did a deep ache, a nostalgic yearning for the home she knew would never return to her. While of course the youngest princess was grieved to be leaving the only home she had ever known, she would be remiss to not admit that it had not been the same in months. Perhaps relocating to one of the outlying baronies would be a refreshing change for the remainder of Zenon’s family.
She had visited their ancestral home, of course, and while she had never imagined herself making a home within the manor walls, it was certainly somewhere she could find respite after recent events. Xene made her point regarding timing, but Gianna found herself in silent disagreement. Her sister may find the timing to be perfect, just what the sisters needed after everything that they had experienced. Of course Xene would be imbued with the additional responsibilities that came with running a baron, but perhaps Gianna could finally breathe once more.
A warmth bloomed in her chest at her sister’s words. Knowing that Xene valued her opinion and her satisfaction confirmed that the pair had seemingly overcome their years of differences. Gianna was careful to guard her emotions, hoping to keep them from crossing her features for once as she turned her attention to Basilides as he proclaimed his excitement and support for the new baroness. She wholly understood the man’s desire to show his commitment to her sister, after all he was a close confidant in addition to the textile services he had provided to the Royal family.
“I cannot help but to agree with Master Basilides. This is excellent news, sister, and most gracious of Emilios,” Gianna started, cautious at first. “While this is certainly not how I had pictured myself leaving Vasiliádon, I cannot imagine a finer selection to take his place in Messenis.” She studied her sister for a moment as the woman reclined on a chaise lounge, ever the picture of elegance. The younger Mikaelidas stood from her position to pace the room as she continued, “I will of course have a number of stipulations that must be met before I can agree to such an arrangement, the most important being the relocation of my beloved Alcaeus.”
Gianna could no longer keep her solemn guise and she broke into a girlish smile as she crossed the room to kneel in front of Xene, taking the woman’s hands into her own. “Oh sister, you will be a most wonderful baroness!” She kissed the back of her sister’s hands in turn and gazed up at Xene. “What a marvelous adventure we shall have!”
Gianna carefully considered her sister’s words. Xene was to be the Baroness of Messenis and Elise and Gianna would be expected to embark on this new adventure alongside the eldest princess. As the knowledge continued to settle around her, so did a deep ache, a nostalgic yearning for the home she knew would never return to her. While of course the youngest princess was grieved to be leaving the only home she had ever known, she would be remiss to not admit that it had not been the same in months. Perhaps relocating to one of the outlying baronies would be a refreshing change for the remainder of Zenon’s family.
She had visited their ancestral home, of course, and while she had never imagined herself making a home within the manor walls, it was certainly somewhere she could find respite after recent events. Xene made her point regarding timing, but Gianna found herself in silent disagreement. Her sister may find the timing to be perfect, just what the sisters needed after everything that they had experienced. Of course Xene would be imbued with the additional responsibilities that came with running a baron, but perhaps Gianna could finally breathe once more.
A warmth bloomed in her chest at her sister’s words. Knowing that Xene valued her opinion and her satisfaction confirmed that the pair had seemingly overcome their years of differences. Gianna was careful to guard her emotions, hoping to keep them from crossing her features for once as she turned her attention to Basilides as he proclaimed his excitement and support for the new baroness. She wholly understood the man’s desire to show his commitment to her sister, after all he was a close confidant in addition to the textile services he had provided to the Royal family.
“I cannot help but to agree with Master Basilides. This is excellent news, sister, and most gracious of Emilios,” Gianna started, cautious at first. “While this is certainly not how I had pictured myself leaving Vasiliádon, I cannot imagine a finer selection to take his place in Messenis.” She studied her sister for a moment as the woman reclined on a chaise lounge, ever the picture of elegance. The younger Mikaelidas stood from her position to pace the room as she continued, “I will of course have a number of stipulations that must be met before I can agree to such an arrangement, the most important being the relocation of my beloved Alcaeus.”
Gianna could no longer keep her solemn guise and she broke into a girlish smile as she crossed the room to kneel in front of Xene, taking the woman’s hands into her own. “Oh sister, you will be a most wonderful baroness!” She kissed the back of her sister’s hands in turn and gazed up at Xene. “What a marvelous adventure we shall have!”
Xene felt warmth spread through each of her limbs. There was something special about earning the approval of her little sister that made her feel warm. Through and through. It was a relief, because she had almost expected that the young woman would turn her nose up at the very thought of leaving their childhood home. But this was going to be something good for the both of them. New experiences, new places, new people. It wasn't that the Palati was not welcoming to them, because it still was, and it would be so easy to remain there even as King Achilleas and Queen Theodora grew their own family, but it was something that Xene would not allow.
They were no longer the main royal family, and she did not seek to step on the toes of those that had already shown them such kindness by not throwing them out on their own. Then again, Achilleas would never have done that anyway, which was another relief. To have found such kindness in the man was a welcome relief. He had never been much like his own father, and that showed even now. Emilios, too. For he had been the one to offer Xene the barony in the first place.
It was an exciting state of afairs that the princess was more than elated for. New experiences were something that she was to embrace, and was more inclined to do now that their situations no longer left them much of a choice in the matter. Giving a soft smile to her younger sister, she basked in the soft, glowing words of Gianna, nodding along as the young woman spoke. But it was the demands that she apparently had to make that had Xene laughing softly, dipping her head and lifting her shoulders in something like a shrug.
"Of course, sister. I would not dream of uprooting you without listening to whatever it is what you might need to be comfortable in our new home," the princess said with a gentle smile. "We can absolutely have your Alcaeus moved with us. My cat will also attend with us, along with my own mare. We will leave nothing of our own affects behind. They are wholly our own and we would not leave without them in any regard. In addition, Emilios has offered us Mikaelidas manor, asserting that he will instead take up residence in the Palati for the time being. So we will not be leaving Vasiliadon just yet. Exploring Messenis will be for after the war," Xene asserted calmly, nodding her head.
Leaning forward when Gianna ran to her and took her hands, kissing the backs of them, Xene smiled lovingly. "I cannot wait to have more adventures with you, sister," she said gently, "Never leave my side. I don't think that I could truly bear it." And she couldn't. Her mother and Gianna were truly all that she had left in that moment, and leaving either one of them behind was something that she could not fathom.
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This character is currently a work in progress.
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Xene felt warmth spread through each of her limbs. There was something special about earning the approval of her little sister that made her feel warm. Through and through. It was a relief, because she had almost expected that the young woman would turn her nose up at the very thought of leaving their childhood home. But this was going to be something good for the both of them. New experiences, new places, new people. It wasn't that the Palati was not welcoming to them, because it still was, and it would be so easy to remain there even as King Achilleas and Queen Theodora grew their own family, but it was something that Xene would not allow.
They were no longer the main royal family, and she did not seek to step on the toes of those that had already shown them such kindness by not throwing them out on their own. Then again, Achilleas would never have done that anyway, which was another relief. To have found such kindness in the man was a welcome relief. He had never been much like his own father, and that showed even now. Emilios, too. For he had been the one to offer Xene the barony in the first place.
It was an exciting state of afairs that the princess was more than elated for. New experiences were something that she was to embrace, and was more inclined to do now that their situations no longer left them much of a choice in the matter. Giving a soft smile to her younger sister, she basked in the soft, glowing words of Gianna, nodding along as the young woman spoke. But it was the demands that she apparently had to make that had Xene laughing softly, dipping her head and lifting her shoulders in something like a shrug.
"Of course, sister. I would not dream of uprooting you without listening to whatever it is what you might need to be comfortable in our new home," the princess said with a gentle smile. "We can absolutely have your Alcaeus moved with us. My cat will also attend with us, along with my own mare. We will leave nothing of our own affects behind. They are wholly our own and we would not leave without them in any regard. In addition, Emilios has offered us Mikaelidas manor, asserting that he will instead take up residence in the Palati for the time being. So we will not be leaving Vasiliadon just yet. Exploring Messenis will be for after the war," Xene asserted calmly, nodding her head.
Leaning forward when Gianna ran to her and took her hands, kissing the backs of them, Xene smiled lovingly. "I cannot wait to have more adventures with you, sister," she said gently, "Never leave my side. I don't think that I could truly bear it." And she couldn't. Her mother and Gianna were truly all that she had left in that moment, and leaving either one of them behind was something that she could not fathom.
Xene felt warmth spread through each of her limbs. There was something special about earning the approval of her little sister that made her feel warm. Through and through. It was a relief, because she had almost expected that the young woman would turn her nose up at the very thought of leaving their childhood home. But this was going to be something good for the both of them. New experiences, new places, new people. It wasn't that the Palati was not welcoming to them, because it still was, and it would be so easy to remain there even as King Achilleas and Queen Theodora grew their own family, but it was something that Xene would not allow.
They were no longer the main royal family, and she did not seek to step on the toes of those that had already shown them such kindness by not throwing them out on their own. Then again, Achilleas would never have done that anyway, which was another relief. To have found such kindness in the man was a welcome relief. He had never been much like his own father, and that showed even now. Emilios, too. For he had been the one to offer Xene the barony in the first place.
It was an exciting state of afairs that the princess was more than elated for. New experiences were something that she was to embrace, and was more inclined to do now that their situations no longer left them much of a choice in the matter. Giving a soft smile to her younger sister, she basked in the soft, glowing words of Gianna, nodding along as the young woman spoke. But it was the demands that she apparently had to make that had Xene laughing softly, dipping her head and lifting her shoulders in something like a shrug.
"Of course, sister. I would not dream of uprooting you without listening to whatever it is what you might need to be comfortable in our new home," the princess said with a gentle smile. "We can absolutely have your Alcaeus moved with us. My cat will also attend with us, along with my own mare. We will leave nothing of our own affects behind. They are wholly our own and we would not leave without them in any regard. In addition, Emilios has offered us Mikaelidas manor, asserting that he will instead take up residence in the Palati for the time being. So we will not be leaving Vasiliadon just yet. Exploring Messenis will be for after the war," Xene asserted calmly, nodding her head.
Leaning forward when Gianna ran to her and took her hands, kissing the backs of them, Xene smiled lovingly. "I cannot wait to have more adventures with you, sister," she said gently, "Never leave my side. I don't think that I could truly bear it." And she couldn't. Her mother and Gianna were truly all that she had left in that moment, and leaving either one of them behind was something that she could not fathom.
