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Celine had known for a year now, for absolute certainty, that she loved Maximus of Laconia. In truth, she had suspected something on her fifteenth birthday, but been unsure exactly what that something had been.
She fingered the earrings he'd given her that day. Somehow, even though gold never lost its lustre, they glowed more brightly now...
The problem was that he seemed to be oblivious now, and that frustrated her. What had changed in those three years, other than that she finally realized what it was she had felt all along?
Court was mostly awful as usual this time, though meeting Essa of Drakos had been an unexpected blessing. However, being in Midas did mean that she could now visit the temple of Aphrodite in person.
She was unsure just how to go about it, in the sense that she'd never thought much about Aphrodite. Celine's situation was different from most people's at the time due to the circumstances under which her family had fled Taengea. As such, with their lives potentially being in danger, her father had decided to let his children, if possible, find love, in the hopes that they would feel more protected by someone they trusted if their lives should come under threat again. Though the immediate fear had passed with time, the danger was, in a sense, always present, even in another part of Greece. Working for the Master Informer had its advantages-which included a little political power on Cassander's part, though not nobility- the lack of which was what made court awkward for many of his children. However, it had its disadvantages too, and one of them was, presumably, that if someone didn't like a policy you advocated, you were to blame when it passed.
She wished now more than ever for the nobility, though she knew it was unlikely, even if she only wanted it because Max's father was ambitious and she knew it. In addition, Celine's phobia of touch by strangers as well as her more reserved change in personality since the fire made finding a trustworthy relationship unlikely, which somehow seemed to make it even more imperative that she grab hold of whatever love she could find.
But that wasn't the problem she'd come about today. She had experienced with sexual intercourse out of curiosity- though with only the minimum amount of physical contact required- but had come to the conclusion that it was awkward for her and in her case only meant to be shared with one she loved.
Love, however, was the problem. How did one deal with it when the other party was seemingly unaware without making it uncomfortable for either person?
She was so inexperienced with actual love- that was, in her mind, love that was both eros and phileo at once- that she didn't even know how to send up a prayer.
But Hermes, her patron god, and Aphrodite had been lovers once.
Perhaps he could reach the goddess with a message.
Even the smell of the incense seemed to evoke passion here. But passion with no return might as well just be pure torture.
"Great goddess, how do I not die of it? For I could very well, if he is oblivious to my passion forever."
It was not, perhaps, the most eloquent of prayers. But she hoped it would do.
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Celine had known for a year now, for absolute certainty, that she loved Maximus of Laconia. In truth, she had suspected something on her fifteenth birthday, but been unsure exactly what that something had been.
She fingered the earrings he'd given her that day. Somehow, even though gold never lost its lustre, they glowed more brightly now...
The problem was that he seemed to be oblivious now, and that frustrated her. What had changed in those three years, other than that she finally realized what it was she had felt all along?
Court was mostly awful as usual this time, though meeting Essa of Drakos had been an unexpected blessing. However, being in Midas did mean that she could now visit the temple of Aphrodite in person.
She was unsure just how to go about it, in the sense that she'd never thought much about Aphrodite. Celine's situation was different from most people's at the time due to the circumstances under which her family had fled Taengea. As such, with their lives potentially being in danger, her father had decided to let his children, if possible, find love, in the hopes that they would feel more protected by someone they trusted if their lives should come under threat again. Though the immediate fear had passed with time, the danger was, in a sense, always present, even in another part of Greece. Working for the Master Informer had its advantages-which included a little political power on Cassander's part, though not nobility- the lack of which was what made court awkward for many of his children. However, it had its disadvantages too, and one of them was, presumably, that if someone didn't like a policy you advocated, you were to blame when it passed.
She wished now more than ever for the nobility, though she knew it was unlikely, even if she only wanted it because Max's father was ambitious and she knew it. In addition, Celine's phobia of touch by strangers as well as her more reserved change in personality since the fire made finding a trustworthy relationship unlikely, which somehow seemed to make it even more imperative that she grab hold of whatever love she could find.
But that wasn't the problem she'd come about today. She had experienced with sexual intercourse out of curiosity- though with only the minimum amount of physical contact required- but had come to the conclusion that it was awkward for her and in her case only meant to be shared with one she loved.
Love, however, was the problem. How did one deal with it when the other party was seemingly unaware without making it uncomfortable for either person?
She was so inexperienced with actual love- that was, in her mind, love that was both eros and phileo at once- that she didn't even know how to send up a prayer.
But Hermes, her patron god, and Aphrodite had been lovers once.
Perhaps he could reach the goddess with a message.
Even the smell of the incense seemed to evoke passion here. But passion with no return might as well just be pure torture.
"Great goddess, how do I not die of it? For I could very well, if he is oblivious to my passion forever."
It was not, perhaps, the most eloquent of prayers. But she hoped it would do.
Celine had known for a year now, for absolute certainty, that she loved Maximus of Laconia. In truth, she had suspected something on her fifteenth birthday, but been unsure exactly what that something had been.
She fingered the earrings he'd given her that day. Somehow, even though gold never lost its lustre, they glowed more brightly now...
The problem was that he seemed to be oblivious now, and that frustrated her. What had changed in those three years, other than that she finally realized what it was she had felt all along?
Court was mostly awful as usual this time, though meeting Essa of Drakos had been an unexpected blessing. However, being in Midas did mean that she could now visit the temple of Aphrodite in person.
She was unsure just how to go about it, in the sense that she'd never thought much about Aphrodite. Celine's situation was different from most people's at the time due to the circumstances under which her family had fled Taengea. As such, with their lives potentially being in danger, her father had decided to let his children, if possible, find love, in the hopes that they would feel more protected by someone they trusted if their lives should come under threat again. Though the immediate fear had passed with time, the danger was, in a sense, always present, even in another part of Greece. Working for the Master Informer had its advantages-which included a little political power on Cassander's part, though not nobility- the lack of which was what made court awkward for many of his children. However, it had its disadvantages too, and one of them was, presumably, that if someone didn't like a policy you advocated, you were to blame when it passed.
She wished now more than ever for the nobility, though she knew it was unlikely, even if she only wanted it because Max's father was ambitious and she knew it. In addition, Celine's phobia of touch by strangers as well as her more reserved change in personality since the fire made finding a trustworthy relationship unlikely, which somehow seemed to make it even more imperative that she grab hold of whatever love she could find.
But that wasn't the problem she'd come about today. She had experienced with sexual intercourse out of curiosity- though with only the minimum amount of physical contact required- but had come to the conclusion that it was awkward for her and in her case only meant to be shared with one she loved.
Love, however, was the problem. How did one deal with it when the other party was seemingly unaware without making it uncomfortable for either person?
She was so inexperienced with actual love- that was, in her mind, love that was both eros and phileo at once- that she didn't even know how to send up a prayer.
But Hermes, her patron god, and Aphrodite had been lovers once.
Perhaps he could reach the goddess with a message.
Even the smell of the incense seemed to evoke passion here. But passion with no return might as well just be pure torture.
"Great goddess, how do I not die of it? For I could very well, if he is oblivious to my passion forever."
It was not, perhaps, the most eloquent of prayers. But she hoped it would do.
Euterpe knew the pain of unrequited love; it was a vast and torturous thing, winding its way into your very core and tearing at the tenderness within. To love one who did not return it was agony like no other, and it broke her heart to see it so often. Of course, one could not control another’s feelings; things could be hinted and nudged, but ultimately fate would decide. If the priestess could change such circumstance, she would; she never wanted another to suffer so profoundly. But such was not her power, and so she would do what she could. She could always listen.
When she heard the woman’s prayer, her heart ached. There was a poignant misery in the simple words she spoke, an abject torment that Euterpe would wish on no one. Her face softened as she looked on the woman, standing away from her at a polite and respectful distance. She waited for the worshipper to notice her presence before she spoke, keeping her voice quiet and gentle. She didn’t want to scare her away.
“Love is a wily beast when it holds us in its clutches.” The priestess offered a soft smile, her expression infused with a knowing sympathy. “While the joy it can bring us is indescribable, so too can it tear us down to nothing. The pain it brings us is very real, often in more than one way. Those who suffer from ‘just’ a broken heart often speak of the aches and pains in their bodies, the stuttering heartbeat, the lack of energy or desire to thrive. It often feels like death would be preferable, but it rarely allows us even that release.”
Inclining her head in polite greeting, “My name is Euterpe, and I am a priestess of this temple. Forgive me for listening, and if you wish to be alone, I will leave you, but your prayer called to me. I too have felt the sting of a love unreturned, and I thought perhaps you would like someone to talk to.” There was nothing on her face but a friendly openness, genuine care pressing her lips into a smile that dimpled rounded cheeks. “I cannot speak for Aphrodite herself, of course, but I hope I can be helpful in other ways.”
Sitting down on a nearby bench, she patted the seat next to her in offering before folding her hands in her lap. “Come, sit with me, if you like. Tell me what it is that troubles you so.”
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Euterpe knew the pain of unrequited love; it was a vast and torturous thing, winding its way into your very core and tearing at the tenderness within. To love one who did not return it was agony like no other, and it broke her heart to see it so often. Of course, one could not control another’s feelings; things could be hinted and nudged, but ultimately fate would decide. If the priestess could change such circumstance, she would; she never wanted another to suffer so profoundly. But such was not her power, and so she would do what she could. She could always listen.
When she heard the woman’s prayer, her heart ached. There was a poignant misery in the simple words she spoke, an abject torment that Euterpe would wish on no one. Her face softened as she looked on the woman, standing away from her at a polite and respectful distance. She waited for the worshipper to notice her presence before she spoke, keeping her voice quiet and gentle. She didn’t want to scare her away.
“Love is a wily beast when it holds us in its clutches.” The priestess offered a soft smile, her expression infused with a knowing sympathy. “While the joy it can bring us is indescribable, so too can it tear us down to nothing. The pain it brings us is very real, often in more than one way. Those who suffer from ‘just’ a broken heart often speak of the aches and pains in their bodies, the stuttering heartbeat, the lack of energy or desire to thrive. It often feels like death would be preferable, but it rarely allows us even that release.”
Inclining her head in polite greeting, “My name is Euterpe, and I am a priestess of this temple. Forgive me for listening, and if you wish to be alone, I will leave you, but your prayer called to me. I too have felt the sting of a love unreturned, and I thought perhaps you would like someone to talk to.” There was nothing on her face but a friendly openness, genuine care pressing her lips into a smile that dimpled rounded cheeks. “I cannot speak for Aphrodite herself, of course, but I hope I can be helpful in other ways.”
Sitting down on a nearby bench, she patted the seat next to her in offering before folding her hands in her lap. “Come, sit with me, if you like. Tell me what it is that troubles you so.”
Euterpe knew the pain of unrequited love; it was a vast and torturous thing, winding its way into your very core and tearing at the tenderness within. To love one who did not return it was agony like no other, and it broke her heart to see it so often. Of course, one could not control another’s feelings; things could be hinted and nudged, but ultimately fate would decide. If the priestess could change such circumstance, she would; she never wanted another to suffer so profoundly. But such was not her power, and so she would do what she could. She could always listen.
When she heard the woman’s prayer, her heart ached. There was a poignant misery in the simple words she spoke, an abject torment that Euterpe would wish on no one. Her face softened as she looked on the woman, standing away from her at a polite and respectful distance. She waited for the worshipper to notice her presence before she spoke, keeping her voice quiet and gentle. She didn’t want to scare her away.
“Love is a wily beast when it holds us in its clutches.” The priestess offered a soft smile, her expression infused with a knowing sympathy. “While the joy it can bring us is indescribable, so too can it tear us down to nothing. The pain it brings us is very real, often in more than one way. Those who suffer from ‘just’ a broken heart often speak of the aches and pains in their bodies, the stuttering heartbeat, the lack of energy or desire to thrive. It often feels like death would be preferable, but it rarely allows us even that release.”
Inclining her head in polite greeting, “My name is Euterpe, and I am a priestess of this temple. Forgive me for listening, and if you wish to be alone, I will leave you, but your prayer called to me. I too have felt the sting of a love unreturned, and I thought perhaps you would like someone to talk to.” There was nothing on her face but a friendly openness, genuine care pressing her lips into a smile that dimpled rounded cheeks. “I cannot speak for Aphrodite herself, of course, but I hope I can be helpful in other ways.”
Sitting down on a nearby bench, she patted the seat next to her in offering before folding her hands in her lap. “Come, sit with me, if you like. Tell me what it is that troubles you so.”
Celine nodded, well aware that she could use some experienced advice. "Nice to meet you, Lady Euterpe." For in her mind, in its own way, priesthood was a nobility all its own. What else did one call someone worthy of such religious respect? "I'm Celine of Acaris, though I call Laconia home now. It- it seems as though there might be special circumstances in my case, although I am sure everyone must think so of their own cause to go before the goddess. In truth, this is the first time I have done so on such a personal matter. I'm more familiar with one of her lovers...Hermes." She did not tell many that Hermes was her patron god because of his responsibility of messenger, being that she enjoyed reading, and she was well aware that most young women would probably have chosen a goddess, However, Celine was unlike most young women even she was acquainted with. And above all, she knew better than to lie in front of the gods.
Celine sat on the bench when it was offered, though she did not come closer than necessary. "Do forgive me. I have had a phobia of being touched by strangers- and you may understand why my case is special when you know a little more." Celine had originally not been going to reveal so much, but somehow she considered a priestess a safe haven for her secrets if need be,
"I believe the phobia began in earnest as a child, when after a terrible fire possibly started by my father's political enemies- we don't know for sure- we had to leave Taengea for our own safety. One of my sisters was injured in the fire, and it might have started then...I lost so many relationships and felt uneasy when making new ones. I was only ten- eleven by the time we moved- and not yet a woman in body. Nonetheless, with time, I was able to make a few good friends, but unless I really trust someone- and it takes more time now- I cannot let them in." She sighed. "And therein lies the problem- one problem among many. My father understands my position, and approves of my finding love before I wed in hopes that if ever our lives are potentially threatened, there would be true trust in that person's ability to protect me. But it is like this. I have fallen in love with a friend who seems oblivious to the fact that I have fallen in love. And even were he to return it, my father's power is in political influence only- not nobility. One need not be a noble to work for a country's Master Informer. There is pay, of course, but it is not sufficient to increase us from middle class standing- and the father of the one I love seems to care a great deal about pairing his son off with a noblewoman. Yet the fact remains that this young man is the one I would trust with my life- not to mention that I would trust him with matters of pleasure- the kind Aphrodite knows well." There was no need to state that those matters did often involve a great deal of close physical contact.
"So you see, I really have two problems. But even were a miracle of the gods to occur that made my family noble, it is of little use if I can't get the one I love to notice me. Indeed, though I never realized it until just now, I used to think I was incapable- not of loving, but of letting myself be loved. And now that I know I'm not, it seems not to matter either way. And in any case, I'm not very good at what one might call sending intentional signals. If he has not noticed the way I trust him, hang on his every word, yearn to breathe the same air as he does, indeed, even let him hold my hand- touch is the ultimate trust in my book- I can't understand how sending other types of signals would help. He doesn't appear to be interested in finding a woman. He is so interested in becoming a soldier, it seems he has little time for that kind of a relationship anyway. I'm pretty sure he might be waiting- leaving it to his father, if you will. And I understand why, to an extent- arranged marriages are usually the way of our world. But my case is different- my parents did not suffer the same type of danger, and could take the time to grow with each other after they were wed. My father did not begin work for the Master Informer until after he had been wed. I am eighteen now, and have lived in Laconia for seven years. The fear of someone finding me- in the immediate sense- has lessened with time, but the danger is always present. Thank you for listening, and...I hope you see now, and can help. What is your advice?" She was trying her hardest not to cry, but even so, her sighs seemed to come from her toes.
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Celine nodded, well aware that she could use some experienced advice. "Nice to meet you, Lady Euterpe." For in her mind, in its own way, priesthood was a nobility all its own. What else did one call someone worthy of such religious respect? "I'm Celine of Acaris, though I call Laconia home now. It- it seems as though there might be special circumstances in my case, although I am sure everyone must think so of their own cause to go before the goddess. In truth, this is the first time I have done so on such a personal matter. I'm more familiar with one of her lovers...Hermes." She did not tell many that Hermes was her patron god because of his responsibility of messenger, being that she enjoyed reading, and she was well aware that most young women would probably have chosen a goddess, However, Celine was unlike most young women even she was acquainted with. And above all, she knew better than to lie in front of the gods.
Celine sat on the bench when it was offered, though she did not come closer than necessary. "Do forgive me. I have had a phobia of being touched by strangers- and you may understand why my case is special when you know a little more." Celine had originally not been going to reveal so much, but somehow she considered a priestess a safe haven for her secrets if need be,
"I believe the phobia began in earnest as a child, when after a terrible fire possibly started by my father's political enemies- we don't know for sure- we had to leave Taengea for our own safety. One of my sisters was injured in the fire, and it might have started then...I lost so many relationships and felt uneasy when making new ones. I was only ten- eleven by the time we moved- and not yet a woman in body. Nonetheless, with time, I was able to make a few good friends, but unless I really trust someone- and it takes more time now- I cannot let them in." She sighed. "And therein lies the problem- one problem among many. My father understands my position, and approves of my finding love before I wed in hopes that if ever our lives are potentially threatened, there would be true trust in that person's ability to protect me. But it is like this. I have fallen in love with a friend who seems oblivious to the fact that I have fallen in love. And even were he to return it, my father's power is in political influence only- not nobility. One need not be a noble to work for a country's Master Informer. There is pay, of course, but it is not sufficient to increase us from middle class standing- and the father of the one I love seems to care a great deal about pairing his son off with a noblewoman. Yet the fact remains that this young man is the one I would trust with my life- not to mention that I would trust him with matters of pleasure- the kind Aphrodite knows well." There was no need to state that those matters did often involve a great deal of close physical contact.
"So you see, I really have two problems. But even were a miracle of the gods to occur that made my family noble, it is of little use if I can't get the one I love to notice me. Indeed, though I never realized it until just now, I used to think I was incapable- not of loving, but of letting myself be loved. And now that I know I'm not, it seems not to matter either way. And in any case, I'm not very good at what one might call sending intentional signals. If he has not noticed the way I trust him, hang on his every word, yearn to breathe the same air as he does, indeed, even let him hold my hand- touch is the ultimate trust in my book- I can't understand how sending other types of signals would help. He doesn't appear to be interested in finding a woman. He is so interested in becoming a soldier, it seems he has little time for that kind of a relationship anyway. I'm pretty sure he might be waiting- leaving it to his father, if you will. And I understand why, to an extent- arranged marriages are usually the way of our world. But my case is different- my parents did not suffer the same type of danger, and could take the time to grow with each other after they were wed. My father did not begin work for the Master Informer until after he had been wed. I am eighteen now, and have lived in Laconia for seven years. The fear of someone finding me- in the immediate sense- has lessened with time, but the danger is always present. Thank you for listening, and...I hope you see now, and can help. What is your advice?" She was trying her hardest not to cry, but even so, her sighs seemed to come from her toes.
Celine nodded, well aware that she could use some experienced advice. "Nice to meet you, Lady Euterpe." For in her mind, in its own way, priesthood was a nobility all its own. What else did one call someone worthy of such religious respect? "I'm Celine of Acaris, though I call Laconia home now. It- it seems as though there might be special circumstances in my case, although I am sure everyone must think so of their own cause to go before the goddess. In truth, this is the first time I have done so on such a personal matter. I'm more familiar with one of her lovers...Hermes." She did not tell many that Hermes was her patron god because of his responsibility of messenger, being that she enjoyed reading, and she was well aware that most young women would probably have chosen a goddess, However, Celine was unlike most young women even she was acquainted with. And above all, she knew better than to lie in front of the gods.
Celine sat on the bench when it was offered, though she did not come closer than necessary. "Do forgive me. I have had a phobia of being touched by strangers- and you may understand why my case is special when you know a little more." Celine had originally not been going to reveal so much, but somehow she considered a priestess a safe haven for her secrets if need be,
"I believe the phobia began in earnest as a child, when after a terrible fire possibly started by my father's political enemies- we don't know for sure- we had to leave Taengea for our own safety. One of my sisters was injured in the fire, and it might have started then...I lost so many relationships and felt uneasy when making new ones. I was only ten- eleven by the time we moved- and not yet a woman in body. Nonetheless, with time, I was able to make a few good friends, but unless I really trust someone- and it takes more time now- I cannot let them in." She sighed. "And therein lies the problem- one problem among many. My father understands my position, and approves of my finding love before I wed in hopes that if ever our lives are potentially threatened, there would be true trust in that person's ability to protect me. But it is like this. I have fallen in love with a friend who seems oblivious to the fact that I have fallen in love. And even were he to return it, my father's power is in political influence only- not nobility. One need not be a noble to work for a country's Master Informer. There is pay, of course, but it is not sufficient to increase us from middle class standing- and the father of the one I love seems to care a great deal about pairing his son off with a noblewoman. Yet the fact remains that this young man is the one I would trust with my life- not to mention that I would trust him with matters of pleasure- the kind Aphrodite knows well." There was no need to state that those matters did often involve a great deal of close physical contact.
"So you see, I really have two problems. But even were a miracle of the gods to occur that made my family noble, it is of little use if I can't get the one I love to notice me. Indeed, though I never realized it until just now, I used to think I was incapable- not of loving, but of letting myself be loved. And now that I know I'm not, it seems not to matter either way. And in any case, I'm not very good at what one might call sending intentional signals. If he has not noticed the way I trust him, hang on his every word, yearn to breathe the same air as he does, indeed, even let him hold my hand- touch is the ultimate trust in my book- I can't understand how sending other types of signals would help. He doesn't appear to be interested in finding a woman. He is so interested in becoming a soldier, it seems he has little time for that kind of a relationship anyway. I'm pretty sure he might be waiting- leaving it to his father, if you will. And I understand why, to an extent- arranged marriages are usually the way of our world. But my case is different- my parents did not suffer the same type of danger, and could take the time to grow with each other after they were wed. My father did not begin work for the Master Informer until after he had been wed. I am eighteen now, and have lived in Laconia for seven years. The fear of someone finding me- in the immediate sense- has lessened with time, but the danger is always present. Thank you for listening, and...I hope you see now, and can help. What is your advice?" She was trying her hardest not to cry, but even so, her sighs seemed to come from her toes.
“I am no lady,” the priestess replied with a smile, shaking her head as the woman introduced herself. “But I’m happy to meet you, Celine. I’m very glad I ran into you today.” Her smile deepened as the woman took the seat next to her, turning a little in order to face her more fully. “Even if Aphrodite is not your patron goddess, your prayers are still welcome here. She is often a jealous goddess, but she does appreciate attention when it comes.”
Euterpe was glad Celine informed her about her phobia of touch and made sure to keep her hands carefully tucked in her lap. Casual touch was a common strategy of hers to make her patrons and clients more comfortable, but the last thing she wanted to do was upset this girl. Though, after the young woman started her story, the priestess wished more than ever that she could reach out to her, to hug her or even just place a hand on her knee. Instead, she simply gazed at her with a gentle expression, tutting softly in sympathy.
“It is never an easy thing to feel like we are unnoticed, especially with a history of such loss and change. Sometimes, we grasp desperately onto the things that feel familiar, the things that stir us or make us feel safe; we hold onto these things ever the more tightly in the fear of losing something again.” She shook her head. “Love in itself is a complicated beast, but throw such phobias as yours or politics and status into the mix, and it only gets all the more difficult to sort through.”
She listened attentively to what Celine had to say about this friend she had fallen for, nodding at the appropriate intervals and humming thoughtfully when she finished. “I am glad you’ve found someone you feel you can trust,” she said with a warm smile. “That’s always a good feeling, and if nothing else, it sounds like you have a good friend in him. Even if he seems oblivious to your advances.” Chuckling quietly, she shook her head again. “However, men are often very… simple and straightforward creatures. Have you ever outright told him that you love him? Forgive me if that’s a silly question, but some men just don’t pick up on hints, however obvious they seem to us. It may be your friend is one of those men.”
Again, she wished she could take Celine’s hand or squeeze her shoulder, something to express sympathy and solidarity with the misery the young woman was feeling. Instead, she just sighed and went on, “My honest advice would be to speak with him frankly. To tell him how you feel in simple terms and ask him how he feels in return. It’s nerve wracking, I know, especially if you find others to be so hard to trust already. But even if he does not feel the same, you won’t have to wonder any more. You never know, Celine.” Her smile widened, an infectious expression that she hoped would spread to her companion. “He may feel the same way and not know how to show it, either. He may even think he’s showing it, but just hasn’t figured out the right way.”
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“I am no lady,” the priestess replied with a smile, shaking her head as the woman introduced herself. “But I’m happy to meet you, Celine. I’m very glad I ran into you today.” Her smile deepened as the woman took the seat next to her, turning a little in order to face her more fully. “Even if Aphrodite is not your patron goddess, your prayers are still welcome here. She is often a jealous goddess, but she does appreciate attention when it comes.”
Euterpe was glad Celine informed her about her phobia of touch and made sure to keep her hands carefully tucked in her lap. Casual touch was a common strategy of hers to make her patrons and clients more comfortable, but the last thing she wanted to do was upset this girl. Though, after the young woman started her story, the priestess wished more than ever that she could reach out to her, to hug her or even just place a hand on her knee. Instead, she simply gazed at her with a gentle expression, tutting softly in sympathy.
“It is never an easy thing to feel like we are unnoticed, especially with a history of such loss and change. Sometimes, we grasp desperately onto the things that feel familiar, the things that stir us or make us feel safe; we hold onto these things ever the more tightly in the fear of losing something again.” She shook her head. “Love in itself is a complicated beast, but throw such phobias as yours or politics and status into the mix, and it only gets all the more difficult to sort through.”
She listened attentively to what Celine had to say about this friend she had fallen for, nodding at the appropriate intervals and humming thoughtfully when she finished. “I am glad you’ve found someone you feel you can trust,” she said with a warm smile. “That’s always a good feeling, and if nothing else, it sounds like you have a good friend in him. Even if he seems oblivious to your advances.” Chuckling quietly, she shook her head again. “However, men are often very… simple and straightforward creatures. Have you ever outright told him that you love him? Forgive me if that’s a silly question, but some men just don’t pick up on hints, however obvious they seem to us. It may be your friend is one of those men.”
Again, she wished she could take Celine’s hand or squeeze her shoulder, something to express sympathy and solidarity with the misery the young woman was feeling. Instead, she just sighed and went on, “My honest advice would be to speak with him frankly. To tell him how you feel in simple terms and ask him how he feels in return. It’s nerve wracking, I know, especially if you find others to be so hard to trust already. But even if he does not feel the same, you won’t have to wonder any more. You never know, Celine.” Her smile widened, an infectious expression that she hoped would spread to her companion. “He may feel the same way and not know how to show it, either. He may even think he’s showing it, but just hasn’t figured out the right way.”
“I am no lady,” the priestess replied with a smile, shaking her head as the woman introduced herself. “But I’m happy to meet you, Celine. I’m very glad I ran into you today.” Her smile deepened as the woman took the seat next to her, turning a little in order to face her more fully. “Even if Aphrodite is not your patron goddess, your prayers are still welcome here. She is often a jealous goddess, but she does appreciate attention when it comes.”
Euterpe was glad Celine informed her about her phobia of touch and made sure to keep her hands carefully tucked in her lap. Casual touch was a common strategy of hers to make her patrons and clients more comfortable, but the last thing she wanted to do was upset this girl. Though, after the young woman started her story, the priestess wished more than ever that she could reach out to her, to hug her or even just place a hand on her knee. Instead, she simply gazed at her with a gentle expression, tutting softly in sympathy.
“It is never an easy thing to feel like we are unnoticed, especially with a history of such loss and change. Sometimes, we grasp desperately onto the things that feel familiar, the things that stir us or make us feel safe; we hold onto these things ever the more tightly in the fear of losing something again.” She shook her head. “Love in itself is a complicated beast, but throw such phobias as yours or politics and status into the mix, and it only gets all the more difficult to sort through.”
She listened attentively to what Celine had to say about this friend she had fallen for, nodding at the appropriate intervals and humming thoughtfully when she finished. “I am glad you’ve found someone you feel you can trust,” she said with a warm smile. “That’s always a good feeling, and if nothing else, it sounds like you have a good friend in him. Even if he seems oblivious to your advances.” Chuckling quietly, she shook her head again. “However, men are often very… simple and straightforward creatures. Have you ever outright told him that you love him? Forgive me if that’s a silly question, but some men just don’t pick up on hints, however obvious they seem to us. It may be your friend is one of those men.”
Again, she wished she could take Celine’s hand or squeeze her shoulder, something to express sympathy and solidarity with the misery the young woman was feeling. Instead, she just sighed and went on, “My honest advice would be to speak with him frankly. To tell him how you feel in simple terms and ask him how he feels in return. It’s nerve wracking, I know, especially if you find others to be so hard to trust already. But even if he does not feel the same, you won’t have to wonder any more. You never know, Celine.” Her smile widened, an infectious expression that she hoped would spread to her companion. “He may feel the same way and not know how to show it, either. He may even think he’s showing it, but just hasn’t figured out the right way.”
Celine managed a weak smile. "But you are a lady- of a sort. Isn't priesthood a nobility all its own? I always thought it was a title of respect." But then again, Celine was a bookish sort and knew of different ways to interpret words, even if she wasn't exactly a writer.
She nodded as she listened to the priestess' advice. "That's true- I should tell him. But my history- or rather, my father's- might indicate that speaking the truth only causes pain. Tell me, is it inevitable that there's someone else he might have his eye on?" she asked. Love triangles seemed to be common among all classes, but when one might be ambitious enough to try to break into another class different from their own, it seemed almost inevitable- not to mention those of all walks of life who had secret lovers.
Would Celine have been happy just being Max's mistress? The idea was so new to her that her mouth opened in shock for a moment. Her throat went dry and she licked her lips, tilting her head in thought.
No. Not only would she not be happy with that, knowing there might have to be an end, but she couldn't imagine her family or his being too pleased, either. That only left one option, though, and it was the scariest one. Then again, if you weren't willing to risk everything for something or someone, did you really love them?
"Let's assume that I have told him, but that he needs...a way to tell, an action to judge it by. As I said, I am not good at sending signals, and while I've had intercourse in the past, I have come to the conclusion that, for me personally, such activities are too...intimate to be shared with someone who doesn't care for me. A kiss, or wearing clothes I know he likes- would those help, do you think?" This, perhaps, was the reason she had come. If she was not good at sending signals, perhaps an Aphrodite priestess would be.
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Celine managed a weak smile. "But you are a lady- of a sort. Isn't priesthood a nobility all its own? I always thought it was a title of respect." But then again, Celine was a bookish sort and knew of different ways to interpret words, even if she wasn't exactly a writer.
She nodded as she listened to the priestess' advice. "That's true- I should tell him. But my history- or rather, my father's- might indicate that speaking the truth only causes pain. Tell me, is it inevitable that there's someone else he might have his eye on?" she asked. Love triangles seemed to be common among all classes, but when one might be ambitious enough to try to break into another class different from their own, it seemed almost inevitable- not to mention those of all walks of life who had secret lovers.
Would Celine have been happy just being Max's mistress? The idea was so new to her that her mouth opened in shock for a moment. Her throat went dry and she licked her lips, tilting her head in thought.
No. Not only would she not be happy with that, knowing there might have to be an end, but she couldn't imagine her family or his being too pleased, either. That only left one option, though, and it was the scariest one. Then again, if you weren't willing to risk everything for something or someone, did you really love them?
"Let's assume that I have told him, but that he needs...a way to tell, an action to judge it by. As I said, I am not good at sending signals, and while I've had intercourse in the past, I have come to the conclusion that, for me personally, such activities are too...intimate to be shared with someone who doesn't care for me. A kiss, or wearing clothes I know he likes- would those help, do you think?" This, perhaps, was the reason she had come. If she was not good at sending signals, perhaps an Aphrodite priestess would be.
Celine managed a weak smile. "But you are a lady- of a sort. Isn't priesthood a nobility all its own? I always thought it was a title of respect." But then again, Celine was a bookish sort and knew of different ways to interpret words, even if she wasn't exactly a writer.
She nodded as she listened to the priestess' advice. "That's true- I should tell him. But my history- or rather, my father's- might indicate that speaking the truth only causes pain. Tell me, is it inevitable that there's someone else he might have his eye on?" she asked. Love triangles seemed to be common among all classes, but when one might be ambitious enough to try to break into another class different from their own, it seemed almost inevitable- not to mention those of all walks of life who had secret lovers.
Would Celine have been happy just being Max's mistress? The idea was so new to her that her mouth opened in shock for a moment. Her throat went dry and she licked her lips, tilting her head in thought.
No. Not only would she not be happy with that, knowing there might have to be an end, but she couldn't imagine her family or his being too pleased, either. That only left one option, though, and it was the scariest one. Then again, if you weren't willing to risk everything for something or someone, did you really love them?
"Let's assume that I have told him, but that he needs...a way to tell, an action to judge it by. As I said, I am not good at sending signals, and while I've had intercourse in the past, I have come to the conclusion that, for me personally, such activities are too...intimate to be shared with someone who doesn't care for me. A kiss, or wearing clothes I know he likes- would those help, do you think?" This, perhaps, was the reason she had come. If she was not good at sending signals, perhaps an Aphrodite priestess would be.
But you are a lady- of a sort. Isn't priesthood a nobility all its own?
Euterpe chuckled softly. It was a happy sound, though, not one meant to be derogatory to the woman’s question. “Of a sort, I suppose,” she answered warmly, slim shoulders briefly lifting in a shrug. The chuckle turned to a merry laugh, lashes lowering in a wink. “Though I’ve never found the nature of my work to be particularly… ladylike.” Her laugh faded to a playful grin, hazel eyes still lit with mirth. “But I do agree. We are in a position that should be respected. Nonetheless, you may still just call me Euterpe. No need for titles here.”
Her mirth slowly faded as Celine spoke, tilting her head thoughtfully when she asked if it was inevitable that the man she loved already had his sights set on another. Without knowing who he was and without a clear view of his circumstances, she couldn’t answer with any certainty, but she also didn’t want to crush this young woman’s heart. There was a certain line between delicacy and honesty she often had to walk, and it was no easy task.
“I wouldn’t say inevitable, necessarily,” she mused in response, her words measured and deliberate. “It’s certainly possible, especially if his father has the idea of furthering the family prestige.” Euterpe brought a smile back to her face, hands spread in a questioning gesture. “Unfortunately, such is the risk to us all, no matter what social class we stand in. We mortals can be as fickle as the goddess of love we worship, and some hearts and eyes are easily swayed. But, do you love him enough to take that chance? Would you rather lay out your feelings and have the chance of him turning his heart to you, or would you rather go the rest of your days hinting and praying that he notices? I’m sure you can guess which way I suggest you go.”
The next questions Celine asked were more easily answered; after all, Euterpe was a priestess of the goddess who ruled desire, and as such, was very well acquainted with the notion. “There are subtle signals you can give to reinforce your words, yes,” she replied with another grin. “Even without the need to touch him. A kiss is certainly a hard gesture to mistake for anything else,” she advised with a laugh. “And clothing he likes is sure to make him more amenable. Pleasing scents and perfumes are another less obvious way to catch his attention. Lavender, jasmine, vanilla, rose; these are all very stimulating aromas with the potential to… arouse him to passion.”
In addition to her duties as a priestess, Euterpe was also an accomplished herbalist, able to recite the names of such aphrodisiac plants without even thinking. “I also have potions and brews that help to aid in such things, if you are interested. There is no guarantee of success with these concoctions, of course, but they won’t hurt your chances, either. I have those that prompt desire, others that stimulate the heart, others that simply help invoke a sense of calm. I’ve worked for years in perfecting the recipes; most of the feedback I’ve had so far has been positive.”
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But you are a lady- of a sort. Isn't priesthood a nobility all its own?
Euterpe chuckled softly. It was a happy sound, though, not one meant to be derogatory to the woman’s question. “Of a sort, I suppose,” she answered warmly, slim shoulders briefly lifting in a shrug. The chuckle turned to a merry laugh, lashes lowering in a wink. “Though I’ve never found the nature of my work to be particularly… ladylike.” Her laugh faded to a playful grin, hazel eyes still lit with mirth. “But I do agree. We are in a position that should be respected. Nonetheless, you may still just call me Euterpe. No need for titles here.”
Her mirth slowly faded as Celine spoke, tilting her head thoughtfully when she asked if it was inevitable that the man she loved already had his sights set on another. Without knowing who he was and without a clear view of his circumstances, she couldn’t answer with any certainty, but she also didn’t want to crush this young woman’s heart. There was a certain line between delicacy and honesty she often had to walk, and it was no easy task.
“I wouldn’t say inevitable, necessarily,” she mused in response, her words measured and deliberate. “It’s certainly possible, especially if his father has the idea of furthering the family prestige.” Euterpe brought a smile back to her face, hands spread in a questioning gesture. “Unfortunately, such is the risk to us all, no matter what social class we stand in. We mortals can be as fickle as the goddess of love we worship, and some hearts and eyes are easily swayed. But, do you love him enough to take that chance? Would you rather lay out your feelings and have the chance of him turning his heart to you, or would you rather go the rest of your days hinting and praying that he notices? I’m sure you can guess which way I suggest you go.”
The next questions Celine asked were more easily answered; after all, Euterpe was a priestess of the goddess who ruled desire, and as such, was very well acquainted with the notion. “There are subtle signals you can give to reinforce your words, yes,” she replied with another grin. “Even without the need to touch him. A kiss is certainly a hard gesture to mistake for anything else,” she advised with a laugh. “And clothing he likes is sure to make him more amenable. Pleasing scents and perfumes are another less obvious way to catch his attention. Lavender, jasmine, vanilla, rose; these are all very stimulating aromas with the potential to… arouse him to passion.”
In addition to her duties as a priestess, Euterpe was also an accomplished herbalist, able to recite the names of such aphrodisiac plants without even thinking. “I also have potions and brews that help to aid in such things, if you are interested. There is no guarantee of success with these concoctions, of course, but they won’t hurt your chances, either. I have those that prompt desire, others that stimulate the heart, others that simply help invoke a sense of calm. I’ve worked for years in perfecting the recipes; most of the feedback I’ve had so far has been positive.”
But you are a lady- of a sort. Isn't priesthood a nobility all its own?
Euterpe chuckled softly. It was a happy sound, though, not one meant to be derogatory to the woman’s question. “Of a sort, I suppose,” she answered warmly, slim shoulders briefly lifting in a shrug. The chuckle turned to a merry laugh, lashes lowering in a wink. “Though I’ve never found the nature of my work to be particularly… ladylike.” Her laugh faded to a playful grin, hazel eyes still lit with mirth. “But I do agree. We are in a position that should be respected. Nonetheless, you may still just call me Euterpe. No need for titles here.”
Her mirth slowly faded as Celine spoke, tilting her head thoughtfully when she asked if it was inevitable that the man she loved already had his sights set on another. Without knowing who he was and without a clear view of his circumstances, she couldn’t answer with any certainty, but she also didn’t want to crush this young woman’s heart. There was a certain line between delicacy and honesty she often had to walk, and it was no easy task.
“I wouldn’t say inevitable, necessarily,” she mused in response, her words measured and deliberate. “It’s certainly possible, especially if his father has the idea of furthering the family prestige.” Euterpe brought a smile back to her face, hands spread in a questioning gesture. “Unfortunately, such is the risk to us all, no matter what social class we stand in. We mortals can be as fickle as the goddess of love we worship, and some hearts and eyes are easily swayed. But, do you love him enough to take that chance? Would you rather lay out your feelings and have the chance of him turning his heart to you, or would you rather go the rest of your days hinting and praying that he notices? I’m sure you can guess which way I suggest you go.”
The next questions Celine asked were more easily answered; after all, Euterpe was a priestess of the goddess who ruled desire, and as such, was very well acquainted with the notion. “There are subtle signals you can give to reinforce your words, yes,” she replied with another grin. “Even without the need to touch him. A kiss is certainly a hard gesture to mistake for anything else,” she advised with a laugh. “And clothing he likes is sure to make him more amenable. Pleasing scents and perfumes are another less obvious way to catch his attention. Lavender, jasmine, vanilla, rose; these are all very stimulating aromas with the potential to… arouse him to passion.”
In addition to her duties as a priestess, Euterpe was also an accomplished herbalist, able to recite the names of such aphrodisiac plants without even thinking. “I also have potions and brews that help to aid in such things, if you are interested. There is no guarantee of success with these concoctions, of course, but they won’t hurt your chances, either. I have those that prompt desire, others that stimulate the heart, others that simply help invoke a sense of calm. I’ve worked for years in perfecting the recipes; most of the feedback I’ve had so far has been positive.”
Celine was impressed with Euterpe's herbal knowledge in particular, though she chuckled despite herself at the idea of lavender arousing passion in a man. "I've just been recommended to try smelling lavender for an unfortunate lung ailment," she confided with a grin she couldn't quite suppress. It did help, but she'd never heard of using lavender for that!
"Roses, though... that might be better. And he also seems to be partial to fruit, so if you have any suggestions I'm all ears. I distinctly remember a perfume made of wild strawberries...."
She blushed despite herself, even though the memory that came to her mind was a completely innocent one.
"He kissed me for the first time when I was wearing it. In all innocence and on the hand. He was in a contest. We were eleven. I thought that was just what a girl did- kiss a contestant for luck. Being the daughter of someone who works for Taengea's Master Informer, I tried as best I could to remember customs." Her smile turned a little sad. "I still do- sometimes I wonder how much of the real me is actually left. But the bond became real, you see, in a way I don't think any other ever quite has. When I lost my old life, I think it was...sort of...my trying to be brave, though I'm only just realizing this now. We'd just moved to Colchis and everything was so new to me, but somehow he gave me back a little of the bravery I lost back then. Now...I want... everything." Celine fought tears. "The most confusing thing of all is perhaps also one of the other most innocent ones. See these earrings? We were fifteen, and it was after that awful...incident...in the markets of Eubocris..." Celine shivered. "Were you in Colchis at the time, Euterpe?" She didn't like to talk about that memory any more than a lot of her other ones, but as it seemed important to explaining why she was so confused about Max's feelings for her, she would refresh the priestess' memory if need be.
She was aware that it might seem she was going around in circles. but she really did have a purpose for saying everything she did. "I wonder if a person can be in love and not really know it?" Especially if that person was a man!
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Celine was impressed with Euterpe's herbal knowledge in particular, though she chuckled despite herself at the idea of lavender arousing passion in a man. "I've just been recommended to try smelling lavender for an unfortunate lung ailment," she confided with a grin she couldn't quite suppress. It did help, but she'd never heard of using lavender for that!
"Roses, though... that might be better. And he also seems to be partial to fruit, so if you have any suggestions I'm all ears. I distinctly remember a perfume made of wild strawberries...."
She blushed despite herself, even though the memory that came to her mind was a completely innocent one.
"He kissed me for the first time when I was wearing it. In all innocence and on the hand. He was in a contest. We were eleven. I thought that was just what a girl did- kiss a contestant for luck. Being the daughter of someone who works for Taengea's Master Informer, I tried as best I could to remember customs." Her smile turned a little sad. "I still do- sometimes I wonder how much of the real me is actually left. But the bond became real, you see, in a way I don't think any other ever quite has. When I lost my old life, I think it was...sort of...my trying to be brave, though I'm only just realizing this now. We'd just moved to Colchis and everything was so new to me, but somehow he gave me back a little of the bravery I lost back then. Now...I want... everything." Celine fought tears. "The most confusing thing of all is perhaps also one of the other most innocent ones. See these earrings? We were fifteen, and it was after that awful...incident...in the markets of Eubocris..." Celine shivered. "Were you in Colchis at the time, Euterpe?" She didn't like to talk about that memory any more than a lot of her other ones, but as it seemed important to explaining why she was so confused about Max's feelings for her, she would refresh the priestess' memory if need be.
She was aware that it might seem she was going around in circles. but she really did have a purpose for saying everything she did. "I wonder if a person can be in love and not really know it?" Especially if that person was a man!
Celine was impressed with Euterpe's herbal knowledge in particular, though she chuckled despite herself at the idea of lavender arousing passion in a man. "I've just been recommended to try smelling lavender for an unfortunate lung ailment," she confided with a grin she couldn't quite suppress. It did help, but she'd never heard of using lavender for that!
"Roses, though... that might be better. And he also seems to be partial to fruit, so if you have any suggestions I'm all ears. I distinctly remember a perfume made of wild strawberries...."
She blushed despite herself, even though the memory that came to her mind was a completely innocent one.
"He kissed me for the first time when I was wearing it. In all innocence and on the hand. He was in a contest. We were eleven. I thought that was just what a girl did- kiss a contestant for luck. Being the daughter of someone who works for Taengea's Master Informer, I tried as best I could to remember customs." Her smile turned a little sad. "I still do- sometimes I wonder how much of the real me is actually left. But the bond became real, you see, in a way I don't think any other ever quite has. When I lost my old life, I think it was...sort of...my trying to be brave, though I'm only just realizing this now. We'd just moved to Colchis and everything was so new to me, but somehow he gave me back a little of the bravery I lost back then. Now...I want... everything." Celine fought tears. "The most confusing thing of all is perhaps also one of the other most innocent ones. See these earrings? We were fifteen, and it was after that awful...incident...in the markets of Eubocris..." Celine shivered. "Were you in Colchis at the time, Euterpe?" She didn't like to talk about that memory any more than a lot of her other ones, but as it seemed important to explaining why she was so confused about Max's feelings for her, she would refresh the priestess' memory if need be.
She was aware that it might seem she was going around in circles. but she really did have a purpose for saying everything she did. "I wonder if a person can be in love and not really know it?" Especially if that person was a man!
“Strawberries are another good choice,” Euterpe replied with a smile, both at the woman’s words and the blush that spread over her cheeks. It was obvious Celine had feelings for this man, strong feelings, and the description of her memory of that long-ago kiss only made it that much more obvious. “Try that perfume again,” the priestess advised her charge with a soft chuckle. “It may stir memories that he isn’t even aware of. Scent has a way of doing that. Invoking times of long past.”
The priestess listened thoughtfully as Celine continued on, nodding where appropriate and offering her a sympathetic expression. It was difficult to carry such feelings when one could not be assured they were returned, particularly when they carried over into different stages of life. As she went on to speak of her earrings and when she received them, Euterpe simply nodded. “Yes, I was in Colchis then,” she murmured in return, her voice unobtrusive so she would not interrupt the line of thought her companion travelled down. “Though, thankfully not in Eubocris. I can’t imagine…” A delicate shudder ran down her spine at the thought. The priestess was not a woman who dealt well with violence. “I have rarely left the temple, even in childhood. It has been home since birth and likely will be until death. Aphrodite claimed me young, and I always knew what I wanted to do.” Resisting the urge to pat Celine’s knee or squeeze her hand, remembering her caution against touch, Euterpe simply smiled again. “Particularly on days like this, where I can help guide a wayward heart.”
I wonder if a person can be in love and not really know it?
“Oh yes,” Euterpe replied with another laugh, nodding enthusiastically. “It happens far more often than you might think. People are remarkably closed off from their own feelings, particularly the ones that move us so strongly. There are many who are afraid of love, who cut themselves off from it because of that fear.” Gods knew Euterpe had come across it time and time again, especially in those of the higher classes who could not marry for love. It was much easier to keep yourself from pain if you denied the feelings in the first place. Or buried them so deeply that not even you could find them. “Could it be your friend is the same? Given what you’ve said, I doubt he feels nothing at all, Celine. Sometimes, you just have to be willing to take a risk in order to have what you want. And once you take that risk… gods, but the rewards are so worth it. Perhaps, a year from now, you’ll be questioning why you even had to come here in the first place.”
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“Strawberries are another good choice,” Euterpe replied with a smile, both at the woman’s words and the blush that spread over her cheeks. It was obvious Celine had feelings for this man, strong feelings, and the description of her memory of that long-ago kiss only made it that much more obvious. “Try that perfume again,” the priestess advised her charge with a soft chuckle. “It may stir memories that he isn’t even aware of. Scent has a way of doing that. Invoking times of long past.”
The priestess listened thoughtfully as Celine continued on, nodding where appropriate and offering her a sympathetic expression. It was difficult to carry such feelings when one could not be assured they were returned, particularly when they carried over into different stages of life. As she went on to speak of her earrings and when she received them, Euterpe simply nodded. “Yes, I was in Colchis then,” she murmured in return, her voice unobtrusive so she would not interrupt the line of thought her companion travelled down. “Though, thankfully not in Eubocris. I can’t imagine…” A delicate shudder ran down her spine at the thought. The priestess was not a woman who dealt well with violence. “I have rarely left the temple, even in childhood. It has been home since birth and likely will be until death. Aphrodite claimed me young, and I always knew what I wanted to do.” Resisting the urge to pat Celine’s knee or squeeze her hand, remembering her caution against touch, Euterpe simply smiled again. “Particularly on days like this, where I can help guide a wayward heart.”
I wonder if a person can be in love and not really know it?
“Oh yes,” Euterpe replied with another laugh, nodding enthusiastically. “It happens far more often than you might think. People are remarkably closed off from their own feelings, particularly the ones that move us so strongly. There are many who are afraid of love, who cut themselves off from it because of that fear.” Gods knew Euterpe had come across it time and time again, especially in those of the higher classes who could not marry for love. It was much easier to keep yourself from pain if you denied the feelings in the first place. Or buried them so deeply that not even you could find them. “Could it be your friend is the same? Given what you’ve said, I doubt he feels nothing at all, Celine. Sometimes, you just have to be willing to take a risk in order to have what you want. And once you take that risk… gods, but the rewards are so worth it. Perhaps, a year from now, you’ll be questioning why you even had to come here in the first place.”
“Strawberries are another good choice,” Euterpe replied with a smile, both at the woman’s words and the blush that spread over her cheeks. It was obvious Celine had feelings for this man, strong feelings, and the description of her memory of that long-ago kiss only made it that much more obvious. “Try that perfume again,” the priestess advised her charge with a soft chuckle. “It may stir memories that he isn’t even aware of. Scent has a way of doing that. Invoking times of long past.”
The priestess listened thoughtfully as Celine continued on, nodding where appropriate and offering her a sympathetic expression. It was difficult to carry such feelings when one could not be assured they were returned, particularly when they carried over into different stages of life. As she went on to speak of her earrings and when she received them, Euterpe simply nodded. “Yes, I was in Colchis then,” she murmured in return, her voice unobtrusive so she would not interrupt the line of thought her companion travelled down. “Though, thankfully not in Eubocris. I can’t imagine…” A delicate shudder ran down her spine at the thought. The priestess was not a woman who dealt well with violence. “I have rarely left the temple, even in childhood. It has been home since birth and likely will be until death. Aphrodite claimed me young, and I always knew what I wanted to do.” Resisting the urge to pat Celine’s knee or squeeze her hand, remembering her caution against touch, Euterpe simply smiled again. “Particularly on days like this, where I can help guide a wayward heart.”
I wonder if a person can be in love and not really know it?
“Oh yes,” Euterpe replied with another laugh, nodding enthusiastically. “It happens far more often than you might think. People are remarkably closed off from their own feelings, particularly the ones that move us so strongly. There are many who are afraid of love, who cut themselves off from it because of that fear.” Gods knew Euterpe had come across it time and time again, especially in those of the higher classes who could not marry for love. It was much easier to keep yourself from pain if you denied the feelings in the first place. Or buried them so deeply that not even you could find them. “Could it be your friend is the same? Given what you’ve said, I doubt he feels nothing at all, Celine. Sometimes, you just have to be willing to take a risk in order to have what you want. And once you take that risk… gods, but the rewards are so worth it. Perhaps, a year from now, you’ll be questioning why you even had to come here in the first place.”
She smiled again at the memories, and at the idea that the priestess had supposedly become one in part to help those with broken hearts. She agreed with the priestess' assessment that Max might indeed feel things, and that she might have a different story in a year or so. Still...
"It's only that I wish it weren't so awkward now. I am sure the goddess knows that one can't help who they are in love with. And perhaps, in more ways than one, it's best to have such feelings for a friend if possible, knowing that they care about you beforehand. But if he rejects my feelings...or doesn't realize he has his own feelings for me..." She swallowed, her stomach suddenly feeling a bit sour at the thought. "Then- well... it's doubly embarrassing. And that's putting it lightly! To potentially lose a friend, when I have so few pains me, but you are right...I can't let my feelings be hidden forever." Celine felt unbearably torn. "I don't know what to do... how I'd live it down. I can't let it be a secret that I love him forever, but I do feel that I have to acknowledge that possibility." She couldn't help a frustrated sigh. "What do you think you would do? Sometimes- throughout my life I often have the wish that I'd been stronger...strong enough to get past the fear of losing those I have a relationship with all over again, and to have the courage to make more friends. But I'm not stronger, and that bothers me almost as much as knowing that it's possible I might lose a close friend if everything turns out wrong."
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She smiled again at the memories, and at the idea that the priestess had supposedly become one in part to help those with broken hearts. She agreed with the priestess' assessment that Max might indeed feel things, and that she might have a different story in a year or so. Still...
"It's only that I wish it weren't so awkward now. I am sure the goddess knows that one can't help who they are in love with. And perhaps, in more ways than one, it's best to have such feelings for a friend if possible, knowing that they care about you beforehand. But if he rejects my feelings...or doesn't realize he has his own feelings for me..." She swallowed, her stomach suddenly feeling a bit sour at the thought. "Then- well... it's doubly embarrassing. And that's putting it lightly! To potentially lose a friend, when I have so few pains me, but you are right...I can't let my feelings be hidden forever." Celine felt unbearably torn. "I don't know what to do... how I'd live it down. I can't let it be a secret that I love him forever, but I do feel that I have to acknowledge that possibility." She couldn't help a frustrated sigh. "What do you think you would do? Sometimes- throughout my life I often have the wish that I'd been stronger...strong enough to get past the fear of losing those I have a relationship with all over again, and to have the courage to make more friends. But I'm not stronger, and that bothers me almost as much as knowing that it's possible I might lose a close friend if everything turns out wrong."
She smiled again at the memories, and at the idea that the priestess had supposedly become one in part to help those with broken hearts. She agreed with the priestess' assessment that Max might indeed feel things, and that she might have a different story in a year or so. Still...
"It's only that I wish it weren't so awkward now. I am sure the goddess knows that one can't help who they are in love with. And perhaps, in more ways than one, it's best to have such feelings for a friend if possible, knowing that they care about you beforehand. But if he rejects my feelings...or doesn't realize he has his own feelings for me..." She swallowed, her stomach suddenly feeling a bit sour at the thought. "Then- well... it's doubly embarrassing. And that's putting it lightly! To potentially lose a friend, when I have so few pains me, but you are right...I can't let my feelings be hidden forever." Celine felt unbearably torn. "I don't know what to do... how I'd live it down. I can't let it be a secret that I love him forever, but I do feel that I have to acknowledge that possibility." She couldn't help a frustrated sigh. "What do you think you would do? Sometimes- throughout my life I often have the wish that I'd been stronger...strong enough to get past the fear of losing those I have a relationship with all over again, and to have the courage to make more friends. But I'm not stronger, and that bothers me almost as much as knowing that it's possible I might lose a close friend if everything turns out wrong."
Euterpe nodded sympathetically as Celine spoke; it was a difficult decision, but it was one that could only be made by her. Of course, there was always the chance that she would be rejected, and her feelings would not be returned. But if the friendship was as strong as she said it was, would such a thing truly ruin it forever? It might even plant the seed that would lead to their happiness in the future. Only the gods knew for sure, but she would never know if she didn’t say anything.
“I understand,” she murmured in reply to the woman’s grievances, a litany of pent-up worries that gushed forth at Euterpe’s gentle prodding. “It is not an easy choice, especially with your past misfortunes. But such things rarely are, the things that truly matter. There are different kind of strengths, Mistress Celine. Some seem to be born with a certain strength of character that crumbles in time. Some must hone it, and it is the choices we make that build that strength in the long run. Strength does not come to those who don’t work for it. If you wish to be strong, you must be the one to choose to make that happen.”
When Celina asked what it was she would do in the same situation, the priestess smiled. “I would tell him. There is no reward without risk, and while there is a chance it could all go wrong, think instead of what you may gain in the end. Is the promise of this man’s love not worth the chance you take to get there? Life is full of risks, my new friend. It is up to you to decide which ones are worth it.”
Her smile deepened as she regarded the woman at her side, so clearly torn with indecision. “No matter what happens, you will survive it, I promise you. Even if you doubt your own resilience, we are always sturdier than we believe we are when it comes down to it. I do not think this will make you crumble. And I do believe it will have a better outcome than what you fear.” Chuckling, she added, “I expect to see you back here in a month or so, brimming with the news of your budding love affair.”
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Euterpe nodded sympathetically as Celine spoke; it was a difficult decision, but it was one that could only be made by her. Of course, there was always the chance that she would be rejected, and her feelings would not be returned. But if the friendship was as strong as she said it was, would such a thing truly ruin it forever? It might even plant the seed that would lead to their happiness in the future. Only the gods knew for sure, but she would never know if she didn’t say anything.
“I understand,” she murmured in reply to the woman’s grievances, a litany of pent-up worries that gushed forth at Euterpe’s gentle prodding. “It is not an easy choice, especially with your past misfortunes. But such things rarely are, the things that truly matter. There are different kind of strengths, Mistress Celine. Some seem to be born with a certain strength of character that crumbles in time. Some must hone it, and it is the choices we make that build that strength in the long run. Strength does not come to those who don’t work for it. If you wish to be strong, you must be the one to choose to make that happen.”
When Celina asked what it was she would do in the same situation, the priestess smiled. “I would tell him. There is no reward without risk, and while there is a chance it could all go wrong, think instead of what you may gain in the end. Is the promise of this man’s love not worth the chance you take to get there? Life is full of risks, my new friend. It is up to you to decide which ones are worth it.”
Her smile deepened as she regarded the woman at her side, so clearly torn with indecision. “No matter what happens, you will survive it, I promise you. Even if you doubt your own resilience, we are always sturdier than we believe we are when it comes down to it. I do not think this will make you crumble. And I do believe it will have a better outcome than what you fear.” Chuckling, she added, “I expect to see you back here in a month or so, brimming with the news of your budding love affair.”
Euterpe nodded sympathetically as Celine spoke; it was a difficult decision, but it was one that could only be made by her. Of course, there was always the chance that she would be rejected, and her feelings would not be returned. But if the friendship was as strong as she said it was, would such a thing truly ruin it forever? It might even plant the seed that would lead to their happiness in the future. Only the gods knew for sure, but she would never know if she didn’t say anything.
“I understand,” she murmured in reply to the woman’s grievances, a litany of pent-up worries that gushed forth at Euterpe’s gentle prodding. “It is not an easy choice, especially with your past misfortunes. But such things rarely are, the things that truly matter. There are different kind of strengths, Mistress Celine. Some seem to be born with a certain strength of character that crumbles in time. Some must hone it, and it is the choices we make that build that strength in the long run. Strength does not come to those who don’t work for it. If you wish to be strong, you must be the one to choose to make that happen.”
When Celina asked what it was she would do in the same situation, the priestess smiled. “I would tell him. There is no reward without risk, and while there is a chance it could all go wrong, think instead of what you may gain in the end. Is the promise of this man’s love not worth the chance you take to get there? Life is full of risks, my new friend. It is up to you to decide which ones are worth it.”
Her smile deepened as she regarded the woman at her side, so clearly torn with indecision. “No matter what happens, you will survive it, I promise you. Even if you doubt your own resilience, we are always sturdier than we believe we are when it comes down to it. I do not think this will make you crumble. And I do believe it will have a better outcome than what you fear.” Chuckling, she added, “I expect to see you back here in a month or so, brimming with the news of your budding love affair.”
Celine did indeed doubt her own resilience at times, especially now. "It's only that I wonder- is there a breaking point for everyone? If so, perhaps I've passed mine long ago, and not without a few cracks to show for it." She was serious, but had to smile at the pottery analogy she had just used. "Do you enjoy art, Euterpe? Perhaps that's partly why I feel things so deeply. If things had turned out differently, I might have been a painter. My mother studied painting at the Scholeio herself, but being taught by her isn't the same as having that experience. Or I might have been a poet, though I doubt he'd like it very much- only because I doubt he would read it. He's going to be a lieutenant, you see... I doubt they have time for reading poetry, or that they would read it if they did." Of course, there were exceptions to every rule, but in this case,Basil seemed far more likely to read poetry than Max would probably be.
She had to laugh a little at the idea that their love affair would have only just now budded by the time she saw Euterpe again. "If you're right, we may both have been hiding it...perhaps even for awhile. Maybe he doesn't say much because in part, he might be as afraid as I am, in his own way. I don't know what's worse. Unrequited love, or knowing that your chances of being together would be slim regardless. But thank you. I'll take into account everything you've said, and I'll be sure to let someone know the results. Maybe next time I'll be in here offering a sacrifice of some sort." She still didn't have any idea what kind of sacrifice, because was not love already making a sacrifice of her sanity? Nonetheless, she smiled at the thought that there might be something to celebrate sooner rather than later as she bid Euterpe goodbye.
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Celine did indeed doubt her own resilience at times, especially now. "It's only that I wonder- is there a breaking point for everyone? If so, perhaps I've passed mine long ago, and not without a few cracks to show for it." She was serious, but had to smile at the pottery analogy she had just used. "Do you enjoy art, Euterpe? Perhaps that's partly why I feel things so deeply. If things had turned out differently, I might have been a painter. My mother studied painting at the Scholeio herself, but being taught by her isn't the same as having that experience. Or I might have been a poet, though I doubt he'd like it very much- only because I doubt he would read it. He's going to be a lieutenant, you see... I doubt they have time for reading poetry, or that they would read it if they did." Of course, there were exceptions to every rule, but in this case,Basil seemed far more likely to read poetry than Max would probably be.
She had to laugh a little at the idea that their love affair would have only just now budded by the time she saw Euterpe again. "If you're right, we may both have been hiding it...perhaps even for awhile. Maybe he doesn't say much because in part, he might be as afraid as I am, in his own way. I don't know what's worse. Unrequited love, or knowing that your chances of being together would be slim regardless. But thank you. I'll take into account everything you've said, and I'll be sure to let someone know the results. Maybe next time I'll be in here offering a sacrifice of some sort." She still didn't have any idea what kind of sacrifice, because was not love already making a sacrifice of her sanity? Nonetheless, she smiled at the thought that there might be something to celebrate sooner rather than later as she bid Euterpe goodbye.
Celine did indeed doubt her own resilience at times, especially now. "It's only that I wonder- is there a breaking point for everyone? If so, perhaps I've passed mine long ago, and not without a few cracks to show for it." She was serious, but had to smile at the pottery analogy she had just used. "Do you enjoy art, Euterpe? Perhaps that's partly why I feel things so deeply. If things had turned out differently, I might have been a painter. My mother studied painting at the Scholeio herself, but being taught by her isn't the same as having that experience. Or I might have been a poet, though I doubt he'd like it very much- only because I doubt he would read it. He's going to be a lieutenant, you see... I doubt they have time for reading poetry, or that they would read it if they did." Of course, there were exceptions to every rule, but in this case,Basil seemed far more likely to read poetry than Max would probably be.
She had to laugh a little at the idea that their love affair would have only just now budded by the time she saw Euterpe again. "If you're right, we may both have been hiding it...perhaps even for awhile. Maybe he doesn't say much because in part, he might be as afraid as I am, in his own way. I don't know what's worse. Unrequited love, or knowing that your chances of being together would be slim regardless. But thank you. I'll take into account everything you've said, and I'll be sure to let someone know the results. Maybe next time I'll be in here offering a sacrifice of some sort." She still didn't have any idea what kind of sacrifice, because was not love already making a sacrifice of her sanity? Nonetheless, she smiled at the thought that there might be something to celebrate sooner rather than later as she bid Euterpe goodbye.
