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Tythra was not one to ever feel nervous. She was born confident and raised to have her head held high always. She was Princess of Colchis. Her brother was to be King and Tythra would support him in any way that she could. The Kotas family were loyal to one another all the way to the end. There was nothing she would not do for them, or for her Kingdom of Colchis.
And yet Tythra felt sick. She sat in a carriage in complete silence after being on a boat for a week, sailing from Colchis to Athenia. Her heart pounded and everything that was said from her ladies and guards went in one ear and out the other. Her mind was far away. Tythra of Kotas was nervous.
There is nothing to be nervous about, She chastised herself. You are a Kotas. Stop this. But there was, in fact, many things to be nervous about. Should all go well, and Tythra had no reason to expect otherwise, she may very well not leave Athenia for a very long time. And when she did leave it would be with a crown on her head and at the side of her husband: King Minas of Xanthos.
It was an honor and a privilege for an opportunity such as this. To be crowned Queen was many young women’s dreams. But to leave Colchis and her family behind and marry a man she hardly knew did not sit well with the young Princess. She knew, logically, that a political marriage was always going to happen to her. But it was Tythra’s desire to remain home, close to family, and close to everything that felt familiar to her.
Despite the long journey, Tythra did not show signs of weariness. Her hair was carefully made, done partly up so a sea of curls gently grazed her upper back. It was speckled with jewels found in the mines of Colchis. A tiara also sat upon her head, shining as it caught the sun’s rays. She wore a beautiful chiton, the likes of which even Tythra had never seen. No expense was spared. The chiton was of a deep scarlet red, and as she moved it almost seemed to shimmer, the layers seemingly dancing in the light. It was embroidered in white, an elegant and classic design. Though she supposed in the coming months the deep red would be replaced with black and her old house shedded like a snake’s skin. That very thought made her heart squeeze.
The biggest reservation Tythra had was not of leaving home, nor was it of missing her family. She simply did not know King Minas very well. She had spoken to him on occasion, during royal visits to and from Athenia. But besides polite conversation, Tythra had never truly spoken to the King. Certainly not in the way a wife was expected to speak. Her image of the man was formed only by niceties that were exchanged and by the words of gossip that floated around court. She did not know if he dawned a mask in public, and if he did what laid behind the mask in private.
Another fear was of Tythra herself. She could very well make a fool of herself, and return to Colchis rejected and with a stain left on her family’s great history. If King Minas grew to detest her what would happen to the relationship of the families? She could ruin a strengthening of ties between Athenia and Colchis and be responsible for turbulent waters between the two nations. Should this be anyone else, a Lord who was detached from the throne, Tythra wouldn’t feel near this unsettled. But Tythra felt like she was walking on a rotting bridge. On one end was King Minas and a happy marriage where both families were proud. But a misstep could bring the bridge, and their happiness, plummeting deep into the abyss.
Tythra was typically a confident woman. She was polite, she was kind, and she knew her power. But as the carriage finally arrived to the Palatai and she sat in the carriage waiting for it to be opened the world felt, for just a moment, like it stopped. Everything was in slow motion. Tythra was not prepared.
Just breathe, Tythra. Breathe.
And all at once, time picked up again. A smile was on her face as she took the hand of the man who was offering assistance as she disembarked from the carriage. There to greet her was the royal family. And when Princess Tythra of Kotas was announced, she gave the royal family a deep, respectful curtsey, bowing her heard along with it.
Her eyes lifted up once more to meet the royal family again. “Thank you for allowing me into your home, Your Majesty.” She said to King Minas. Her eyes moved to Princess Circenia, “and you, Your Highness.” Princess Sera was missing, but Tythra had been given the forewarning ahead of time. A festival in another province, apparently.
Tythra motioned behind her and three chests appeared. “I bring gifts from King Silas. Jewels from the mines of Colchis, and jewelry for the Princesses.” Originally her father was only going to give a gift of jewels, but Tythra did not want to anger the women who would potentially be her sisters-in-law. Everything had to be perfect.
There is nothing to worry about. Everything will be just fine.
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Tythra was not one to ever feel nervous. She was born confident and raised to have her head held high always. She was Princess of Colchis. Her brother was to be King and Tythra would support him in any way that she could. The Kotas family were loyal to one another all the way to the end. There was nothing she would not do for them, or for her Kingdom of Colchis.
And yet Tythra felt sick. She sat in a carriage in complete silence after being on a boat for a week, sailing from Colchis to Athenia. Her heart pounded and everything that was said from her ladies and guards went in one ear and out the other. Her mind was far away. Tythra of Kotas was nervous.
There is nothing to be nervous about, She chastised herself. You are a Kotas. Stop this. But there was, in fact, many things to be nervous about. Should all go well, and Tythra had no reason to expect otherwise, she may very well not leave Athenia for a very long time. And when she did leave it would be with a crown on her head and at the side of her husband: King Minas of Xanthos.
It was an honor and a privilege for an opportunity such as this. To be crowned Queen was many young women’s dreams. But to leave Colchis and her family behind and marry a man she hardly knew did not sit well with the young Princess. She knew, logically, that a political marriage was always going to happen to her. But it was Tythra’s desire to remain home, close to family, and close to everything that felt familiar to her.
Despite the long journey, Tythra did not show signs of weariness. Her hair was carefully made, done partly up so a sea of curls gently grazed her upper back. It was speckled with jewels found in the mines of Colchis. A tiara also sat upon her head, shining as it caught the sun’s rays. She wore a beautiful chiton, the likes of which even Tythra had never seen. No expense was spared. The chiton was of a deep scarlet red, and as she moved it almost seemed to shimmer, the layers seemingly dancing in the light. It was embroidered in white, an elegant and classic design. Though she supposed in the coming months the deep red would be replaced with black and her old house shedded like a snake’s skin. That very thought made her heart squeeze.
The biggest reservation Tythra had was not of leaving home, nor was it of missing her family. She simply did not know King Minas very well. She had spoken to him on occasion, during royal visits to and from Athenia. But besides polite conversation, Tythra had never truly spoken to the King. Certainly not in the way a wife was expected to speak. Her image of the man was formed only by niceties that were exchanged and by the words of gossip that floated around court. She did not know if he dawned a mask in public, and if he did what laid behind the mask in private.
Another fear was of Tythra herself. She could very well make a fool of herself, and return to Colchis rejected and with a stain left on her family’s great history. If King Minas grew to detest her what would happen to the relationship of the families? She could ruin a strengthening of ties between Athenia and Colchis and be responsible for turbulent waters between the two nations. Should this be anyone else, a Lord who was detached from the throne, Tythra wouldn’t feel near this unsettled. But Tythra felt like she was walking on a rotting bridge. On one end was King Minas and a happy marriage where both families were proud. But a misstep could bring the bridge, and their happiness, plummeting deep into the abyss.
Tythra was typically a confident woman. She was polite, she was kind, and she knew her power. But as the carriage finally arrived to the Palatai and she sat in the carriage waiting for it to be opened the world felt, for just a moment, like it stopped. Everything was in slow motion. Tythra was not prepared.
Just breathe, Tythra. Breathe.
And all at once, time picked up again. A smile was on her face as she took the hand of the man who was offering assistance as she disembarked from the carriage. There to greet her was the royal family. And when Princess Tythra of Kotas was announced, she gave the royal family a deep, respectful curtsey, bowing her heard along with it.
Her eyes lifted up once more to meet the royal family again. “Thank you for allowing me into your home, Your Majesty.” She said to King Minas. Her eyes moved to Princess Circenia, “and you, Your Highness.” Princess Sera was missing, but Tythra had been given the forewarning ahead of time. A festival in another province, apparently.
Tythra motioned behind her and three chests appeared. “I bring gifts from King Silas. Jewels from the mines of Colchis, and jewelry for the Princesses.” Originally her father was only going to give a gift of jewels, but Tythra did not want to anger the women who would potentially be her sisters-in-law. Everything had to be perfect.
There is nothing to worry about. Everything will be just fine.
Tythra was not one to ever feel nervous. She was born confident and raised to have her head held high always. She was Princess of Colchis. Her brother was to be King and Tythra would support him in any way that she could. The Kotas family were loyal to one another all the way to the end. There was nothing she would not do for them, or for her Kingdom of Colchis.
And yet Tythra felt sick. She sat in a carriage in complete silence after being on a boat for a week, sailing from Colchis to Athenia. Her heart pounded and everything that was said from her ladies and guards went in one ear and out the other. Her mind was far away. Tythra of Kotas was nervous.
There is nothing to be nervous about, She chastised herself. You are a Kotas. Stop this. But there was, in fact, many things to be nervous about. Should all go well, and Tythra had no reason to expect otherwise, she may very well not leave Athenia for a very long time. And when she did leave it would be with a crown on her head and at the side of her husband: King Minas of Xanthos.
It was an honor and a privilege for an opportunity such as this. To be crowned Queen was many young women’s dreams. But to leave Colchis and her family behind and marry a man she hardly knew did not sit well with the young Princess. She knew, logically, that a political marriage was always going to happen to her. But it was Tythra’s desire to remain home, close to family, and close to everything that felt familiar to her.
Despite the long journey, Tythra did not show signs of weariness. Her hair was carefully made, done partly up so a sea of curls gently grazed her upper back. It was speckled with jewels found in the mines of Colchis. A tiara also sat upon her head, shining as it caught the sun’s rays. She wore a beautiful chiton, the likes of which even Tythra had never seen. No expense was spared. The chiton was of a deep scarlet red, and as she moved it almost seemed to shimmer, the layers seemingly dancing in the light. It was embroidered in white, an elegant and classic design. Though she supposed in the coming months the deep red would be replaced with black and her old house shedded like a snake’s skin. That very thought made her heart squeeze.
The biggest reservation Tythra had was not of leaving home, nor was it of missing her family. She simply did not know King Minas very well. She had spoken to him on occasion, during royal visits to and from Athenia. But besides polite conversation, Tythra had never truly spoken to the King. Certainly not in the way a wife was expected to speak. Her image of the man was formed only by niceties that were exchanged and by the words of gossip that floated around court. She did not know if he dawned a mask in public, and if he did what laid behind the mask in private.
Another fear was of Tythra herself. She could very well make a fool of herself, and return to Colchis rejected and with a stain left on her family’s great history. If King Minas grew to detest her what would happen to the relationship of the families? She could ruin a strengthening of ties between Athenia and Colchis and be responsible for turbulent waters between the two nations. Should this be anyone else, a Lord who was detached from the throne, Tythra wouldn’t feel near this unsettled. But Tythra felt like she was walking on a rotting bridge. On one end was King Minas and a happy marriage where both families were proud. But a misstep could bring the bridge, and their happiness, plummeting deep into the abyss.
Tythra was typically a confident woman. She was polite, she was kind, and she knew her power. But as the carriage finally arrived to the Palatai and she sat in the carriage waiting for it to be opened the world felt, for just a moment, like it stopped. Everything was in slow motion. Tythra was not prepared.
Just breathe, Tythra. Breathe.
And all at once, time picked up again. A smile was on her face as she took the hand of the man who was offering assistance as she disembarked from the carriage. There to greet her was the royal family. And when Princess Tythra of Kotas was announced, she gave the royal family a deep, respectful curtsey, bowing her heard along with it.
Her eyes lifted up once more to meet the royal family again. “Thank you for allowing me into your home, Your Majesty.” She said to King Minas. Her eyes moved to Princess Circenia, “and you, Your Highness.” Princess Sera was missing, but Tythra had been given the forewarning ahead of time. A festival in another province, apparently.
Tythra motioned behind her and three chests appeared. “I bring gifts from King Silas. Jewels from the mines of Colchis, and jewelry for the Princesses.” Originally her father was only going to give a gift of jewels, but Tythra did not want to anger the women who would potentially be her sisters-in-law. Everything had to be perfect.
There is nothing to worry about. Everything will be just fine.
Marriage had never really been a foreign thought in his head. Born a royal prince, Minas knew that one day, it was in his future and his duty as the heir to a throne, to marry advantageously and bring a proper Queen who would rule by his side, as well as his parents were. As such, he had never been one to go in to any serious relationships he knew his parents would deem inappropriate. His father regulated Minas's behavior with a strict hand, being his regeant as King until Minas's twelfth year, so much so that by the time Minas had taken on the proper leadership of the kingdom at 12, the words of Lord Omiros practically reverberated in the back of his head even without his father's advisory present. Oh sure, he's sowed his oats, had his fair share of flings, but Minas always made sure to be careful, especially as he was a King despite his young age.
Of course, had someone told Minas how hard his father had fought for the crown to remain in his hands, he likely would have quite different ideas regarding his father, but as it stood, Minas merely saw Omiros as a strict father intent on ensuring the young man grew up to be a proper King. So despite his father having passed years ago, many of Omiros's words still rang in his head in certain situations, this being one of them.
A proper King needed a proper wife to be Queen. With this being his eighth year as a King and now pass the age of twenty, the urges for him to take a wife was growing stronger, yet despite the various woman Minas had slept with on occasion, none properly classified as a wife, much less a Queen. Minas was, surprisingly, someone who wore his heart on a sleeve, and while he understood the need to marry for responsibility, a part of him couldn't properly let go of the fact that it did not feel right to marry just anyone. He should at least like his wife, should he not?
Still, as his advisors told him, it wouldn't harm to just get to know people. He had already met all the prospective young women who fit the bill to be Queen in Athenia, and none met his calls, so why not try someone from a neighboring kingdom? It wasn't as if he's never met many of them before. As a young King, he was often brought by his father to neighbouring kingdom's. Omiros saw a need to secure his son's position as King, perhaps due to the young age at which he had ascended, and as such, Minas had made many connections over the years. Those visits had continued with the accompaniment of his mother and advisors once his father had passed.
After the advise of a few trusted officials, Minas had eventually sent a missive inviting Princess Tythra over for a visit. She had met the strong young lady before in his few visits to Colchis, and when she had visited Athenia. The young lady was well spoken of by her parents and those who knew her, cited as someone who was in equal parts capable as she was intelligent. For all intents and purposes, Tythra of Kotas would make a wonderful Queen.
So why was he still hesitant? Was he still wondering if that was all there is to it, to grade a woman base on her ability to think and act soundly as a Queen, and then marry her? While he wasn't exactly a casanova, neither was he a romantic, Minas did not mindlessly take woman to bed. He was still a kind lover, and for that reason, he had his reservations.
But he had to give this a chance. Afterall, if his mother and advisors said this would be the way King's usually took wives, they should be right, shouldn't they? It wasn't as if he particularly took notice of how King's usually act when he was younger, so now he largely only had their word to go on.
Dressed in Xanthos colors of black with gold trimming, his hair was neatly spruced, his chiton sweeping his ankles as he exited the royal palati to stand at the steps, his father behind him with a pointed look at him, whilst his advisor's and Circenia stood together to greet the visiting royal, with Sera having been brought to see a festival in another province with her bevy of guards and handmaiden. Sera had been particularly interested, so Nefeli had went along with her, leaving Circenia with Minas.
Returning her greeting with a respectful nod of his head as she turned to his sister, Minas couldn't deny her decorum was impeccable. Internally, Minas sighed, but outwardly he was all respectful as he stepped forward once the chests of jewels and jewelry was opened with a smooth smile of his own. "We thank you for your gifts, Princess Tythra. Your journey must have been tiring. Come," the young King offered an arm to the princess, "We have prepared a meal to welcome you, before we will show you to your chambers. I believe you would need some fresh nourishment after the dried fare on the voyage?"
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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Marriage had never really been a foreign thought in his head. Born a royal prince, Minas knew that one day, it was in his future and his duty as the heir to a throne, to marry advantageously and bring a proper Queen who would rule by his side, as well as his parents were. As such, he had never been one to go in to any serious relationships he knew his parents would deem inappropriate. His father regulated Minas's behavior with a strict hand, being his regeant as King until Minas's twelfth year, so much so that by the time Minas had taken on the proper leadership of the kingdom at 12, the words of Lord Omiros practically reverberated in the back of his head even without his father's advisory present. Oh sure, he's sowed his oats, had his fair share of flings, but Minas always made sure to be careful, especially as he was a King despite his young age.
Of course, had someone told Minas how hard his father had fought for the crown to remain in his hands, he likely would have quite different ideas regarding his father, but as it stood, Minas merely saw Omiros as a strict father intent on ensuring the young man grew up to be a proper King. So despite his father having passed years ago, many of Omiros's words still rang in his head in certain situations, this being one of them.
A proper King needed a proper wife to be Queen. With this being his eighth year as a King and now pass the age of twenty, the urges for him to take a wife was growing stronger, yet despite the various woman Minas had slept with on occasion, none properly classified as a wife, much less a Queen. Minas was, surprisingly, someone who wore his heart on a sleeve, and while he understood the need to marry for responsibility, a part of him couldn't properly let go of the fact that it did not feel right to marry just anyone. He should at least like his wife, should he not?
Still, as his advisors told him, it wouldn't harm to just get to know people. He had already met all the prospective young women who fit the bill to be Queen in Athenia, and none met his calls, so why not try someone from a neighboring kingdom? It wasn't as if he's never met many of them before. As a young King, he was often brought by his father to neighbouring kingdom's. Omiros saw a need to secure his son's position as King, perhaps due to the young age at which he had ascended, and as such, Minas had made many connections over the years. Those visits had continued with the accompaniment of his mother and advisors once his father had passed.
After the advise of a few trusted officials, Minas had eventually sent a missive inviting Princess Tythra over for a visit. She had met the strong young lady before in his few visits to Colchis, and when she had visited Athenia. The young lady was well spoken of by her parents and those who knew her, cited as someone who was in equal parts capable as she was intelligent. For all intents and purposes, Tythra of Kotas would make a wonderful Queen.
So why was he still hesitant? Was he still wondering if that was all there is to it, to grade a woman base on her ability to think and act soundly as a Queen, and then marry her? While he wasn't exactly a casanova, neither was he a romantic, Minas did not mindlessly take woman to bed. He was still a kind lover, and for that reason, he had his reservations.
But he had to give this a chance. Afterall, if his mother and advisors said this would be the way King's usually took wives, they should be right, shouldn't they? It wasn't as if he particularly took notice of how King's usually act when he was younger, so now he largely only had their word to go on.
Dressed in Xanthos colors of black with gold trimming, his hair was neatly spruced, his chiton sweeping his ankles as he exited the royal palati to stand at the steps, his father behind him with a pointed look at him, whilst his advisor's and Circenia stood together to greet the visiting royal, with Sera having been brought to see a festival in another province with her bevy of guards and handmaiden. Sera had been particularly interested, so Nefeli had went along with her, leaving Circenia with Minas.
Returning her greeting with a respectful nod of his head as she turned to his sister, Minas couldn't deny her decorum was impeccable. Internally, Minas sighed, but outwardly he was all respectful as he stepped forward once the chests of jewels and jewelry was opened with a smooth smile of his own. "We thank you for your gifts, Princess Tythra. Your journey must have been tiring. Come," the young King offered an arm to the princess, "We have prepared a meal to welcome you, before we will show you to your chambers. I believe you would need some fresh nourishment after the dried fare on the voyage?"
Marriage had never really been a foreign thought in his head. Born a royal prince, Minas knew that one day, it was in his future and his duty as the heir to a throne, to marry advantageously and bring a proper Queen who would rule by his side, as well as his parents were. As such, he had never been one to go in to any serious relationships he knew his parents would deem inappropriate. His father regulated Minas's behavior with a strict hand, being his regeant as King until Minas's twelfth year, so much so that by the time Minas had taken on the proper leadership of the kingdom at 12, the words of Lord Omiros practically reverberated in the back of his head even without his father's advisory present. Oh sure, he's sowed his oats, had his fair share of flings, but Minas always made sure to be careful, especially as he was a King despite his young age.
Of course, had someone told Minas how hard his father had fought for the crown to remain in his hands, he likely would have quite different ideas regarding his father, but as it stood, Minas merely saw Omiros as a strict father intent on ensuring the young man grew up to be a proper King. So despite his father having passed years ago, many of Omiros's words still rang in his head in certain situations, this being one of them.
A proper King needed a proper wife to be Queen. With this being his eighth year as a King and now pass the age of twenty, the urges for him to take a wife was growing stronger, yet despite the various woman Minas had slept with on occasion, none properly classified as a wife, much less a Queen. Minas was, surprisingly, someone who wore his heart on a sleeve, and while he understood the need to marry for responsibility, a part of him couldn't properly let go of the fact that it did not feel right to marry just anyone. He should at least like his wife, should he not?
Still, as his advisors told him, it wouldn't harm to just get to know people. He had already met all the prospective young women who fit the bill to be Queen in Athenia, and none met his calls, so why not try someone from a neighboring kingdom? It wasn't as if he's never met many of them before. As a young King, he was often brought by his father to neighbouring kingdom's. Omiros saw a need to secure his son's position as King, perhaps due to the young age at which he had ascended, and as such, Minas had made many connections over the years. Those visits had continued with the accompaniment of his mother and advisors once his father had passed.
After the advise of a few trusted officials, Minas had eventually sent a missive inviting Princess Tythra over for a visit. She had met the strong young lady before in his few visits to Colchis, and when she had visited Athenia. The young lady was well spoken of by her parents and those who knew her, cited as someone who was in equal parts capable as she was intelligent. For all intents and purposes, Tythra of Kotas would make a wonderful Queen.
So why was he still hesitant? Was he still wondering if that was all there is to it, to grade a woman base on her ability to think and act soundly as a Queen, and then marry her? While he wasn't exactly a casanova, neither was he a romantic, Minas did not mindlessly take woman to bed. He was still a kind lover, and for that reason, he had his reservations.
But he had to give this a chance. Afterall, if his mother and advisors said this would be the way King's usually took wives, they should be right, shouldn't they? It wasn't as if he particularly took notice of how King's usually act when he was younger, so now he largely only had their word to go on.
Dressed in Xanthos colors of black with gold trimming, his hair was neatly spruced, his chiton sweeping his ankles as he exited the royal palati to stand at the steps, his father behind him with a pointed look at him, whilst his advisor's and Circenia stood together to greet the visiting royal, with Sera having been brought to see a festival in another province with her bevy of guards and handmaiden. Sera had been particularly interested, so Nefeli had went along with her, leaving Circenia with Minas.
Returning her greeting with a respectful nod of his head as she turned to his sister, Minas couldn't deny her decorum was impeccable. Internally, Minas sighed, but outwardly he was all respectful as he stepped forward once the chests of jewels and jewelry was opened with a smooth smile of his own. "We thank you for your gifts, Princess Tythra. Your journey must have been tiring. Come," the young King offered an arm to the princess, "We have prepared a meal to welcome you, before we will show you to your chambers. I believe you would need some fresh nourishment after the dried fare on the voyage?"
Princess Circenia of Xanthos stood at her brother’s side, head held proudly in the air. Arm linked with that of Minas, the royal pair stood at attention as they watched the carriage approach, the carriage that held the king’s potential soon-to-be bride, Princess Tythra of Kotas. A few years her junior, Circenia had met the woman on several occasions in travels to Colchis and during Kotas visits to Athenia. From what she knew of her, she was bright and intelligent with a courtly demeanor set to rival her own. However, even at nineteen, she knew Tythra couldn’t hope to compare to the sort of influence she had. Even if Minas did marry her, Circenia knew how large of a place she held in her brother’s heart. Tythra might be Queen, but this princess could bring her down in an instant.
Her attire mirrored her brother’s, a golden silk chiton outlined in artful black embroidery. A glittering gold tiara inlaid with diamonds rested among perfectly coifed ebony curls, matching diamonds glittering in her earlobes and around her neck, while gold bangles marched up each arm. Delicate golden sandals encased her feet, laced up elegantly curved legs to mid-thigh. Her face was made up in masterful strokes of kohl and carmine, a shimmering gold powder dusted along her cheeks and touched over the carmine on her lips. Circenia never shunned the opportunity to display her wealth and status, and it would do well to serve as a subtle reminder to Princess Tythra who the true queen was in Athenia, title or no. Nefeli and Sera were inconsequential. With her brother’s favor and a cunning intellect that surpassed both of her siblings, Circenia was a force that could hardly be matched and never ignored.
“Do you think this time will be different, Minas?” she asked her brother in a low tone to keep her words from the prying ears of the retainers and advisors behind them. Like Circenia herself, Minas had so far rejected every marriage opportunity that came his way, and she wondered if Tythra would just be more of the same. “Do you think Tythra of Kotas will prove any more promising than the others?”
Whatever his answer was, it was soon swept away by the carriage’s arrival, a servant handing out the princess herself. Circenia returned her polite greeting, curtsying to the exact degree required of a royal showing respect to another of the same status. “Welcome back to Athenia, Princess Tythra,” she said with a warm and effusive smile, all charm and elegance as she stepped away from her brother to greet her ‘friend’ more personally. Lightly kissing the woman’s cheek, she stepped back to stare in awe at the gifts Tythra’s servants presented.
“Oh, darling, you shouldn’t have,” she enthused as she pulled a particularly impressive ring from the chest one of the servants opened. Sparkling with rubies and sapphires, the blue stones perfectly matched the hue of her eyes, much to her delight. Slipping the ring on her finger and admiring the way it caught the light, she rejoined her brother’s retinue, falling into step on Tythra’s other side once Minas offered his arm.
“Yes, Your Highness, just wait until you see the feast my brother has ordered,” she said to Tythra with a conspiratorial grin. “No expense was spared, that I can assure you.” Her grin deepened, eyes sparkling with a mostly feigned enthusiasm. “While we eat, you simply must tell us all about your trip here. And of course, how your family fares. It has been too long since His Majesty and I have been able to visit. We shall have to remedy that soon, shall we not, Minas? After all, we may soon be a big happy family.”
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Princess Circenia of Xanthos stood at her brother’s side, head held proudly in the air. Arm linked with that of Minas, the royal pair stood at attention as they watched the carriage approach, the carriage that held the king’s potential soon-to-be bride, Princess Tythra of Kotas. A few years her junior, Circenia had met the woman on several occasions in travels to Colchis and during Kotas visits to Athenia. From what she knew of her, she was bright and intelligent with a courtly demeanor set to rival her own. However, even at nineteen, she knew Tythra couldn’t hope to compare to the sort of influence she had. Even if Minas did marry her, Circenia knew how large of a place she held in her brother’s heart. Tythra might be Queen, but this princess could bring her down in an instant.
Her attire mirrored her brother’s, a golden silk chiton outlined in artful black embroidery. A glittering gold tiara inlaid with diamonds rested among perfectly coifed ebony curls, matching diamonds glittering in her earlobes and around her neck, while gold bangles marched up each arm. Delicate golden sandals encased her feet, laced up elegantly curved legs to mid-thigh. Her face was made up in masterful strokes of kohl and carmine, a shimmering gold powder dusted along her cheeks and touched over the carmine on her lips. Circenia never shunned the opportunity to display her wealth and status, and it would do well to serve as a subtle reminder to Princess Tythra who the true queen was in Athenia, title or no. Nefeli and Sera were inconsequential. With her brother’s favor and a cunning intellect that surpassed both of her siblings, Circenia was a force that could hardly be matched and never ignored.
“Do you think this time will be different, Minas?” she asked her brother in a low tone to keep her words from the prying ears of the retainers and advisors behind them. Like Circenia herself, Minas had so far rejected every marriage opportunity that came his way, and she wondered if Tythra would just be more of the same. “Do you think Tythra of Kotas will prove any more promising than the others?”
Whatever his answer was, it was soon swept away by the carriage’s arrival, a servant handing out the princess herself. Circenia returned her polite greeting, curtsying to the exact degree required of a royal showing respect to another of the same status. “Welcome back to Athenia, Princess Tythra,” she said with a warm and effusive smile, all charm and elegance as she stepped away from her brother to greet her ‘friend’ more personally. Lightly kissing the woman’s cheek, she stepped back to stare in awe at the gifts Tythra’s servants presented.
“Oh, darling, you shouldn’t have,” she enthused as she pulled a particularly impressive ring from the chest one of the servants opened. Sparkling with rubies and sapphires, the blue stones perfectly matched the hue of her eyes, much to her delight. Slipping the ring on her finger and admiring the way it caught the light, she rejoined her brother’s retinue, falling into step on Tythra’s other side once Minas offered his arm.
“Yes, Your Highness, just wait until you see the feast my brother has ordered,” she said to Tythra with a conspiratorial grin. “No expense was spared, that I can assure you.” Her grin deepened, eyes sparkling with a mostly feigned enthusiasm. “While we eat, you simply must tell us all about your trip here. And of course, how your family fares. It has been too long since His Majesty and I have been able to visit. We shall have to remedy that soon, shall we not, Minas? After all, we may soon be a big happy family.”
Princess Circenia of Xanthos stood at her brother’s side, head held proudly in the air. Arm linked with that of Minas, the royal pair stood at attention as they watched the carriage approach, the carriage that held the king’s potential soon-to-be bride, Princess Tythra of Kotas. A few years her junior, Circenia had met the woman on several occasions in travels to Colchis and during Kotas visits to Athenia. From what she knew of her, she was bright and intelligent with a courtly demeanor set to rival her own. However, even at nineteen, she knew Tythra couldn’t hope to compare to the sort of influence she had. Even if Minas did marry her, Circenia knew how large of a place she held in her brother’s heart. Tythra might be Queen, but this princess could bring her down in an instant.
Her attire mirrored her brother’s, a golden silk chiton outlined in artful black embroidery. A glittering gold tiara inlaid with diamonds rested among perfectly coifed ebony curls, matching diamonds glittering in her earlobes and around her neck, while gold bangles marched up each arm. Delicate golden sandals encased her feet, laced up elegantly curved legs to mid-thigh. Her face was made up in masterful strokes of kohl and carmine, a shimmering gold powder dusted along her cheeks and touched over the carmine on her lips. Circenia never shunned the opportunity to display her wealth and status, and it would do well to serve as a subtle reminder to Princess Tythra who the true queen was in Athenia, title or no. Nefeli and Sera were inconsequential. With her brother’s favor and a cunning intellect that surpassed both of her siblings, Circenia was a force that could hardly be matched and never ignored.
“Do you think this time will be different, Minas?” she asked her brother in a low tone to keep her words from the prying ears of the retainers and advisors behind them. Like Circenia herself, Minas had so far rejected every marriage opportunity that came his way, and she wondered if Tythra would just be more of the same. “Do you think Tythra of Kotas will prove any more promising than the others?”
Whatever his answer was, it was soon swept away by the carriage’s arrival, a servant handing out the princess herself. Circenia returned her polite greeting, curtsying to the exact degree required of a royal showing respect to another of the same status. “Welcome back to Athenia, Princess Tythra,” she said with a warm and effusive smile, all charm and elegance as she stepped away from her brother to greet her ‘friend’ more personally. Lightly kissing the woman’s cheek, she stepped back to stare in awe at the gifts Tythra’s servants presented.
“Oh, darling, you shouldn’t have,” she enthused as she pulled a particularly impressive ring from the chest one of the servants opened. Sparkling with rubies and sapphires, the blue stones perfectly matched the hue of her eyes, much to her delight. Slipping the ring on her finger and admiring the way it caught the light, she rejoined her brother’s retinue, falling into step on Tythra’s other side once Minas offered his arm.
“Yes, Your Highness, just wait until you see the feast my brother has ordered,” she said to Tythra with a conspiratorial grin. “No expense was spared, that I can assure you.” Her grin deepened, eyes sparkling with a mostly feigned enthusiasm. “While we eat, you simply must tell us all about your trip here. And of course, how your family fares. It has been too long since His Majesty and I have been able to visit. We shall have to remedy that soon, shall we not, Minas? After all, we may soon be a big happy family.”
We may soon be one big happy family.
Tythra’s smile remained steady but her heart squeezed at the Princess’s words. It wasn’t untrue, not at all, but it still didn’t quite sit well with her. She wanted this to work. She needed this to work. But the idea of being away with her family and being a part of a new one hurt Tythra. It was just little over six years ago where she had scrutinized Yanni looking for any flaw that would send her home. Her young heart feared that her brother would leave her and Tythra would be without anyone. And now this fear had returned, only this time Tythra truly was alone.
But perhaps not. For when Minas offered his arm, Tythra gently took it. He was handsome, that had never changed. But was he kind? Would he fill the void when she leaves her family? Would Circenia prove to be a sister just as Yanni had? Could this union work for everyone, and together they can rule Athenia in peace?
Tythra could only hope. If this would help Colchis, she would put her happiness aside. But if there was a chance she could fulfill her duty and have a true, genuine smile on her face then she will work harder than any woman could before. If Yanni can travel to a different kingdom and find love, then Tythra could as well.
“Oh, my family would love a visit from His Majesty and his sisters.” Tythra said with the same enthusiasm. “Tython would never admit to it, but he gets so excited when he hears of your arrival.” Attention returned to Minas for just a moment. “And Princess Circenia, I would be most excited to show you the shopping stalls in Midas. I suspect they are almost as lovely as the ones in Athenia are.” They were likely more lovely, but she did not want to insult either Princess or King.
After all, soon Tythra would have to do away with her Colchis pride and instead prioritize Athenia. The Colchis people would not be her people any longer. The Kotas colors would not be her own. No longer her highness, Princess Tythra of Kotas, but her majesty, Queen Tythra of Xanthos. To think that Colchis was superior would be foolish now… even if her heart wished it to be so.
“And a feast?” Eyes looked from one person to the next. “Your welcome has been so warm. You honor me.” She knew it was propriety. To lack a feast would be insulting. A feast was a minimum of what was needed, just as the gifts that were bestowed upon the Xanthos.
The only worry Tythra had was Princess Circenia. Her experiences in the past with Circenia had not all been the most… pleasant. But she would work to turn that around, to win her favor so that she would have a peaceful marriage with Minas. And to Minas, she would prove her worth so that he would be happy to marry her. And both families would be united, strengthening the alliance between Colchis and Athenia, just as Taengea did with Colchis.
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We may soon be one big happy family.
Tythra’s smile remained steady but her heart squeezed at the Princess’s words. It wasn’t untrue, not at all, but it still didn’t quite sit well with her. She wanted this to work. She needed this to work. But the idea of being away with her family and being a part of a new one hurt Tythra. It was just little over six years ago where she had scrutinized Yanni looking for any flaw that would send her home. Her young heart feared that her brother would leave her and Tythra would be without anyone. And now this fear had returned, only this time Tythra truly was alone.
But perhaps not. For when Minas offered his arm, Tythra gently took it. He was handsome, that had never changed. But was he kind? Would he fill the void when she leaves her family? Would Circenia prove to be a sister just as Yanni had? Could this union work for everyone, and together they can rule Athenia in peace?
Tythra could only hope. If this would help Colchis, she would put her happiness aside. But if there was a chance she could fulfill her duty and have a true, genuine smile on her face then she will work harder than any woman could before. If Yanni can travel to a different kingdom and find love, then Tythra could as well.
“Oh, my family would love a visit from His Majesty and his sisters.” Tythra said with the same enthusiasm. “Tython would never admit to it, but he gets so excited when he hears of your arrival.” Attention returned to Minas for just a moment. “And Princess Circenia, I would be most excited to show you the shopping stalls in Midas. I suspect they are almost as lovely as the ones in Athenia are.” They were likely more lovely, but she did not want to insult either Princess or King.
After all, soon Tythra would have to do away with her Colchis pride and instead prioritize Athenia. The Colchis people would not be her people any longer. The Kotas colors would not be her own. No longer her highness, Princess Tythra of Kotas, but her majesty, Queen Tythra of Xanthos. To think that Colchis was superior would be foolish now… even if her heart wished it to be so.
“And a feast?” Eyes looked from one person to the next. “Your welcome has been so warm. You honor me.” She knew it was propriety. To lack a feast would be insulting. A feast was a minimum of what was needed, just as the gifts that were bestowed upon the Xanthos.
The only worry Tythra had was Princess Circenia. Her experiences in the past with Circenia had not all been the most… pleasant. But she would work to turn that around, to win her favor so that she would have a peaceful marriage with Minas. And to Minas, she would prove her worth so that he would be happy to marry her. And both families would be united, strengthening the alliance between Colchis and Athenia, just as Taengea did with Colchis.
We may soon be one big happy family.
Tythra’s smile remained steady but her heart squeezed at the Princess’s words. It wasn’t untrue, not at all, but it still didn’t quite sit well with her. She wanted this to work. She needed this to work. But the idea of being away with her family and being a part of a new one hurt Tythra. It was just little over six years ago where she had scrutinized Yanni looking for any flaw that would send her home. Her young heart feared that her brother would leave her and Tythra would be without anyone. And now this fear had returned, only this time Tythra truly was alone.
But perhaps not. For when Minas offered his arm, Tythra gently took it. He was handsome, that had never changed. But was he kind? Would he fill the void when she leaves her family? Would Circenia prove to be a sister just as Yanni had? Could this union work for everyone, and together they can rule Athenia in peace?
Tythra could only hope. If this would help Colchis, she would put her happiness aside. But if there was a chance she could fulfill her duty and have a true, genuine smile on her face then she will work harder than any woman could before. If Yanni can travel to a different kingdom and find love, then Tythra could as well.
“Oh, my family would love a visit from His Majesty and his sisters.” Tythra said with the same enthusiasm. “Tython would never admit to it, but he gets so excited when he hears of your arrival.” Attention returned to Minas for just a moment. “And Princess Circenia, I would be most excited to show you the shopping stalls in Midas. I suspect they are almost as lovely as the ones in Athenia are.” They were likely more lovely, but she did not want to insult either Princess or King.
After all, soon Tythra would have to do away with her Colchis pride and instead prioritize Athenia. The Colchis people would not be her people any longer. The Kotas colors would not be her own. No longer her highness, Princess Tythra of Kotas, but her majesty, Queen Tythra of Xanthos. To think that Colchis was superior would be foolish now… even if her heart wished it to be so.
“And a feast?” Eyes looked from one person to the next. “Your welcome has been so warm. You honor me.” She knew it was propriety. To lack a feast would be insulting. A feast was a minimum of what was needed, just as the gifts that were bestowed upon the Xanthos.
The only worry Tythra had was Princess Circenia. Her experiences in the past with Circenia had not all been the most… pleasant. But she would work to turn that around, to win her favor so that she would have a peaceful marriage with Minas. And to Minas, she would prove her worth so that he would be happy to marry her. And both families would be united, strengthening the alliance between Colchis and Athenia, just as Taengea did with Colchis.
Despite the rumors of some others, Minas had always been fairly close to his siblings, especially after the passing of Omiros. With a strong sense of responsibility, he took it upon himself to be brother, King and father figure to both Sera and Circenia, and quite honestly, also took their advise seriously as they grew older, when it came to matters of relationships and people. Circenia had always been quite astute in her observations of others, so Minas was partially glad that she had been available on the date Tythra would arrive, even if Sera had been dragged away.
That Circenia and Tythra had a former 'friendship' of sorts boded well with the young King, as he watched his sister greet the Kotas born princess. Of course, Tythra had chosen well, for Circenia was immediately enamoured by the jewelry flashed in front of her. An amused smile curled his lips upwards as he watched the younger of the Xanthos siblings immediately slip the ring on, and then rolled his eyes good-naturedly at how quickly Circenia was no longer on his side.
The smile remained even as Tythra spoke of her brother. He had conversed with Tython many times during their meetings, both about the same age and destined to take the throne. And while he would've dearly loved to be able to have a firmer friendship, the seas stood between a firmer friendship between the two. Despite so, Minas always enjoyed visiting the future king of Colchis, admiring the way in which Tython stood firm in his decisions and how quickly he grasped the strings of being a King.
"The honor is ours, Your Highness." he murmured in return, as he led the ladies in. The servants surrounded them in a flurry, taking away any form of clothing they had worn to protect them from the weather, now no longer needed once they were within the royal palati of Athenia. Freshly cleaned and polished for the arrival of their guests, the expensive cloth of Xanthos colors draped the hallways. Marble columns gleam as Minas led the ladies into the foyer, allowing the servants to do their thing before continuing their way to the larger dining hall. The hall itself was smaller then the grand hall, which served as a receiving room and a hall for court sessions, but it was not any less grand in its decor. Gold gilded ornaments, fresh sprigs of vegetation served as both a pop of color and to give the area a scent of fresh meadows to all who enter.
Despite a promised feast, there was yet to be food laid upon the table, for Minas had instructed the servants to ensure what served was to be piping hot. It wouldn't do good to serve his guests with cold food, and as such, the young King led and seated first Tythra, and then his own sister on either side of him at the long table (which could usually seat far more, and now seemed gargantuan for just the two of them), before taking his own seat at the head. Servants came again, filling their wine chalices as he gestured for Tythra to have hers.
"I opened up a few bottles of wine from the Condos vineyards, Your Highness." he explained, having purposefully sought out wines from teh finest vineyards in Greece. "I hope they are to your taste... an a touch better then the ones you would have had on your voyage here, I hope?" he murmured, casting a gaze to Circenia. Her brother was a great leader for the economy and people of Athenia, but he... occasionall fell short when it came to charming someone, much less trying to get the conversation to a marriageble sort.
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Despite the rumors of some others, Minas had always been fairly close to his siblings, especially after the passing of Omiros. With a strong sense of responsibility, he took it upon himself to be brother, King and father figure to both Sera and Circenia, and quite honestly, also took their advise seriously as they grew older, when it came to matters of relationships and people. Circenia had always been quite astute in her observations of others, so Minas was partially glad that she had been available on the date Tythra would arrive, even if Sera had been dragged away.
That Circenia and Tythra had a former 'friendship' of sorts boded well with the young King, as he watched his sister greet the Kotas born princess. Of course, Tythra had chosen well, for Circenia was immediately enamoured by the jewelry flashed in front of her. An amused smile curled his lips upwards as he watched the younger of the Xanthos siblings immediately slip the ring on, and then rolled his eyes good-naturedly at how quickly Circenia was no longer on his side.
The smile remained even as Tythra spoke of her brother. He had conversed with Tython many times during their meetings, both about the same age and destined to take the throne. And while he would've dearly loved to be able to have a firmer friendship, the seas stood between a firmer friendship between the two. Despite so, Minas always enjoyed visiting the future king of Colchis, admiring the way in which Tython stood firm in his decisions and how quickly he grasped the strings of being a King.
"The honor is ours, Your Highness." he murmured in return, as he led the ladies in. The servants surrounded them in a flurry, taking away any form of clothing they had worn to protect them from the weather, now no longer needed once they were within the royal palati of Athenia. Freshly cleaned and polished for the arrival of their guests, the expensive cloth of Xanthos colors draped the hallways. Marble columns gleam as Minas led the ladies into the foyer, allowing the servants to do their thing before continuing their way to the larger dining hall. The hall itself was smaller then the grand hall, which served as a receiving room and a hall for court sessions, but it was not any less grand in its decor. Gold gilded ornaments, fresh sprigs of vegetation served as both a pop of color and to give the area a scent of fresh meadows to all who enter.
Despite a promised feast, there was yet to be food laid upon the table, for Minas had instructed the servants to ensure what served was to be piping hot. It wouldn't do good to serve his guests with cold food, and as such, the young King led and seated first Tythra, and then his own sister on either side of him at the long table (which could usually seat far more, and now seemed gargantuan for just the two of them), before taking his own seat at the head. Servants came again, filling their wine chalices as he gestured for Tythra to have hers.
"I opened up a few bottles of wine from the Condos vineyards, Your Highness." he explained, having purposefully sought out wines from teh finest vineyards in Greece. "I hope they are to your taste... an a touch better then the ones you would have had on your voyage here, I hope?" he murmured, casting a gaze to Circenia. Her brother was a great leader for the economy and people of Athenia, but he... occasionall fell short when it came to charming someone, much less trying to get the conversation to a marriageble sort.
Despite the rumors of some others, Minas had always been fairly close to his siblings, especially after the passing of Omiros. With a strong sense of responsibility, he took it upon himself to be brother, King and father figure to both Sera and Circenia, and quite honestly, also took their advise seriously as they grew older, when it came to matters of relationships and people. Circenia had always been quite astute in her observations of others, so Minas was partially glad that she had been available on the date Tythra would arrive, even if Sera had been dragged away.
That Circenia and Tythra had a former 'friendship' of sorts boded well with the young King, as he watched his sister greet the Kotas born princess. Of course, Tythra had chosen well, for Circenia was immediately enamoured by the jewelry flashed in front of her. An amused smile curled his lips upwards as he watched the younger of the Xanthos siblings immediately slip the ring on, and then rolled his eyes good-naturedly at how quickly Circenia was no longer on his side.
The smile remained even as Tythra spoke of her brother. He had conversed with Tython many times during their meetings, both about the same age and destined to take the throne. And while he would've dearly loved to be able to have a firmer friendship, the seas stood between a firmer friendship between the two. Despite so, Minas always enjoyed visiting the future king of Colchis, admiring the way in which Tython stood firm in his decisions and how quickly he grasped the strings of being a King.
"The honor is ours, Your Highness." he murmured in return, as he led the ladies in. The servants surrounded them in a flurry, taking away any form of clothing they had worn to protect them from the weather, now no longer needed once they were within the royal palati of Athenia. Freshly cleaned and polished for the arrival of their guests, the expensive cloth of Xanthos colors draped the hallways. Marble columns gleam as Minas led the ladies into the foyer, allowing the servants to do their thing before continuing their way to the larger dining hall. The hall itself was smaller then the grand hall, which served as a receiving room and a hall for court sessions, but it was not any less grand in its decor. Gold gilded ornaments, fresh sprigs of vegetation served as both a pop of color and to give the area a scent of fresh meadows to all who enter.
Despite a promised feast, there was yet to be food laid upon the table, for Minas had instructed the servants to ensure what served was to be piping hot. It wouldn't do good to serve his guests with cold food, and as such, the young King led and seated first Tythra, and then his own sister on either side of him at the long table (which could usually seat far more, and now seemed gargantuan for just the two of them), before taking his own seat at the head. Servants came again, filling their wine chalices as he gestured for Tythra to have hers.
"I opened up a few bottles of wine from the Condos vineyards, Your Highness." he explained, having purposefully sought out wines from teh finest vineyards in Greece. "I hope they are to your taste... an a touch better then the ones you would have had on your voyage here, I hope?" he murmured, casting a gaze to Circenia. Her brother was a great leader for the economy and people of Athenia, but he... occasionall fell short when it came to charming someone, much less trying to get the conversation to a marriageble sort.
And Princess Circenia, I would be most excited to show you the shopping stalls in Midas. I suspect they are almost as lovely as the ones in Athenia are.
“My darling, it would be my absolute delight,” Circenia assured the woman at her side, calculative blue eyes glancing her way. Was there any true sincerity in her offer, or was it simply what was expected of her to say? The Xanthos princess found more people tended toward the latter, particularly in a place like Athenia where honor and politeness were esteemed so highly. Was it the same in Colchis? Or did they speak their minds more freely?
From what the young woman had seen of the country, she doubted that very much. The people seemed to be of a sterner stock, while perhaps not dressing their words in the cordial niceties like the nobility of Athenia. Whatever it was, it didn’t matter. Circenia played the Court game as well as any other. She, too, knew what words to say when, whether there was any truth to them or not.
The princess remained quiet as they walked to the palati, letting Minas and Tythra fill the chatter instead. After all, they were the ones to be wed; Circenia was here at the request of her brother, and as a formal show of support. Whether she actually supported this union or not would remain to be seen. And that all depended on just how… malleable… Tythra was.
The fact of the matter was that Circenia had no wish to bring another woman into the family who could match or even outdo her. As it stood now, she all but ruled the Athenian Court, and she would do everything in her power to keep it that way. If Tythra wanted to be Queen, that was fine. But she needed to know her true place. And if she couldn’t… well then… she would be dealt with, wouldn’t she?
Entering the dining hall, Circenia offered her brother her most gracious smile when he seated her, soon turning that smile on Tythra. “I told you, my brother is a very generous man,” she enthused when Minas glanced her way, clearly beseeching her help. Gods help him, he was a good man, and a good king, but a socialite, he was not. “Your visit is all he has been talking about for at least the past week, isn’t that right, Minas dear?” She looked his way, expecting him to respond in the affirmative, before turning her attention back to Tythra. “I imagine he nearly sent the household staff into the ground with all their preparations. Only the best, he said. And I would say he has outdone himself this time.”
Taking a sip of wine from her goblet, she made a soft sound of approval. “Delicious,” she commented, gently swirling the liquid around the glass’s edges. “A particularly fine vintage, this one. Aged… ten years, I believe we were told? Athenian wines are delightful, but nothing can match the Condos vineyards.”
Setting her glass back down, she made sure Tythra had her full attention, playing the part of the gracious hostess like she was born to it. Her face the perfect picture of attentiveness, her expression was soft and open as she gestured to the woman across from her. “Come now, Your Highness, do not let me prattle on. How was your journey? How fares your family? Tell us everything we have missed since last we saw you.”
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And Princess Circenia, I would be most excited to show you the shopping stalls in Midas. I suspect they are almost as lovely as the ones in Athenia are.
“My darling, it would be my absolute delight,” Circenia assured the woman at her side, calculative blue eyes glancing her way. Was there any true sincerity in her offer, or was it simply what was expected of her to say? The Xanthos princess found more people tended toward the latter, particularly in a place like Athenia where honor and politeness were esteemed so highly. Was it the same in Colchis? Or did they speak their minds more freely?
From what the young woman had seen of the country, she doubted that very much. The people seemed to be of a sterner stock, while perhaps not dressing their words in the cordial niceties like the nobility of Athenia. Whatever it was, it didn’t matter. Circenia played the Court game as well as any other. She, too, knew what words to say when, whether there was any truth to them or not.
The princess remained quiet as they walked to the palati, letting Minas and Tythra fill the chatter instead. After all, they were the ones to be wed; Circenia was here at the request of her brother, and as a formal show of support. Whether she actually supported this union or not would remain to be seen. And that all depended on just how… malleable… Tythra was.
The fact of the matter was that Circenia had no wish to bring another woman into the family who could match or even outdo her. As it stood now, she all but ruled the Athenian Court, and she would do everything in her power to keep it that way. If Tythra wanted to be Queen, that was fine. But she needed to know her true place. And if she couldn’t… well then… she would be dealt with, wouldn’t she?
Entering the dining hall, Circenia offered her brother her most gracious smile when he seated her, soon turning that smile on Tythra. “I told you, my brother is a very generous man,” she enthused when Minas glanced her way, clearly beseeching her help. Gods help him, he was a good man, and a good king, but a socialite, he was not. “Your visit is all he has been talking about for at least the past week, isn’t that right, Minas dear?” She looked his way, expecting him to respond in the affirmative, before turning her attention back to Tythra. “I imagine he nearly sent the household staff into the ground with all their preparations. Only the best, he said. And I would say he has outdone himself this time.”
Taking a sip of wine from her goblet, she made a soft sound of approval. “Delicious,” she commented, gently swirling the liquid around the glass’s edges. “A particularly fine vintage, this one. Aged… ten years, I believe we were told? Athenian wines are delightful, but nothing can match the Condos vineyards.”
Setting her glass back down, she made sure Tythra had her full attention, playing the part of the gracious hostess like she was born to it. Her face the perfect picture of attentiveness, her expression was soft and open as she gestured to the woman across from her. “Come now, Your Highness, do not let me prattle on. How was your journey? How fares your family? Tell us everything we have missed since last we saw you.”
And Princess Circenia, I would be most excited to show you the shopping stalls in Midas. I suspect they are almost as lovely as the ones in Athenia are.
“My darling, it would be my absolute delight,” Circenia assured the woman at her side, calculative blue eyes glancing her way. Was there any true sincerity in her offer, or was it simply what was expected of her to say? The Xanthos princess found more people tended toward the latter, particularly in a place like Athenia where honor and politeness were esteemed so highly. Was it the same in Colchis? Or did they speak their minds more freely?
From what the young woman had seen of the country, she doubted that very much. The people seemed to be of a sterner stock, while perhaps not dressing their words in the cordial niceties like the nobility of Athenia. Whatever it was, it didn’t matter. Circenia played the Court game as well as any other. She, too, knew what words to say when, whether there was any truth to them or not.
The princess remained quiet as they walked to the palati, letting Minas and Tythra fill the chatter instead. After all, they were the ones to be wed; Circenia was here at the request of her brother, and as a formal show of support. Whether she actually supported this union or not would remain to be seen. And that all depended on just how… malleable… Tythra was.
The fact of the matter was that Circenia had no wish to bring another woman into the family who could match or even outdo her. As it stood now, she all but ruled the Athenian Court, and she would do everything in her power to keep it that way. If Tythra wanted to be Queen, that was fine. But she needed to know her true place. And if she couldn’t… well then… she would be dealt with, wouldn’t she?
Entering the dining hall, Circenia offered her brother her most gracious smile when he seated her, soon turning that smile on Tythra. “I told you, my brother is a very generous man,” she enthused when Minas glanced her way, clearly beseeching her help. Gods help him, he was a good man, and a good king, but a socialite, he was not. “Your visit is all he has been talking about for at least the past week, isn’t that right, Minas dear?” She looked his way, expecting him to respond in the affirmative, before turning her attention back to Tythra. “I imagine he nearly sent the household staff into the ground with all their preparations. Only the best, he said. And I would say he has outdone himself this time.”
Taking a sip of wine from her goblet, she made a soft sound of approval. “Delicious,” she commented, gently swirling the liquid around the glass’s edges. “A particularly fine vintage, this one. Aged… ten years, I believe we were told? Athenian wines are delightful, but nothing can match the Condos vineyards.”
Setting her glass back down, she made sure Tythra had her full attention, playing the part of the gracious hostess like she was born to it. Her face the perfect picture of attentiveness, her expression was soft and open as she gestured to the woman across from her. “Come now, Your Highness, do not let me prattle on. How was your journey? How fares your family? Tell us everything we have missed since last we saw you.”
Tythra could play the court game very well. She suspected it was a better game than most in Colchis. She knew how to turn on the charm, the smiles, and the laughters and the niceties. (After all, that’s all she received from her different Ladies growing up. Nothing was ever sincere.) But it was different being on this side of the table. Tythra suspected this was exactly how Yanni felt. She suddenly not only had a man that she had to impress but a family in which to keep happy. All the while Tythra had to not be… insincere but also… say exactly what they wished to hear?
Honestly, feelings and emotions were something that Tythra much rather bury deep. She almost wished this was a transaction. She wouldn’t have to worry so much that she was boring to the Princess or King. She wouldn’t have to question her every word, even her every breath, as if the slightest wrong thing would ruin her chances at a throne, at love, and besmirch her family name. Tythra had to be graceful under pressure, and what enormous pressure it was.
She wished she could pop into the King’s mind. Did he find her beautiful? Kind? Was he nervous as well? Or did he find her horrid and was looking for any way to send her back and not offend her family at the same time? Gods, this was not like Tythra. She was confident. She was sure. She marched on a path all her own and didn’t let others dictate how she talked, acted, or thought. Yet here she was, a nervous little girl tiptoeing around like she was on a frozen lake with sirens circling beneath ready to drown her. If her brother saw her now he wouldn’t believe it. He’d laugh at her, or call her an idiot, or both. Because this was… idiotic. She shouldn’t be this nervous.
And yet…
Tythra was grateful for the wine if only to ease her nerves. And they were very correct, nothing could match wine from the Condos vineyards. Next time Tythra was in Taengea she would have to personally thank them, for they gave way to an easy response. “Oh yes, it truly is remarkable. When Yanni first arrived from Taengea we bonded over our love for their wine, shared a glass of it ourselves. I am… glad that this tradition has remained now with the two of you.” Yes, bonding over wine, how... a love that every Greek kingdom shared.
“The journey was long but peaceful. I’m afraid I don’t have anything of interest to share. The waters were calm, and not even a pirate to provide a lively story to regale the two of you. I supposed I should count that as a blessing.” She joked, trying to ease more herself than anyone else.
“My family is doing quite well. They are… as excited as they are saddened to see me go.” Tythra missed them so much. If she were not a woman of Colchis, then she would have shed tears when onboard the ship. But she was strong and way too damn proud, so she kept calm and carried on.
What did Yanni tell Tythra when she had questioned her so many years ago? Tythra had meant to bring up the conversation to hurt Yanni and hopefully convince her to go back to Taengea. Oh yeah, “They’re pleased, however, that now the family will grow. As am I.” A new husband, two new sisters, and… potentially children down the line.
Tythra was speaking too little words, wasn’t she? It was how people of Colchis spoke, answering questions as directly as possible. Athenians weren’t like that though, were they? They were a lot more proper.
“I was hoping, if it wasn’t too much of a bother, that within the next few days I could have… a tour around the capital.” Tythra was careful with every word she said, not wanting to be rude and demanding within the first hours of her arrival. “It would be lovely if you could join, your Majesty, but I also know that you’re a busy man. If it’s not possible, perhaps Princess Circenia could be of company? I apologize. I am the type of woman who likes to be well informed, and I don’t think it would be very proper of me to live here and not know much of what surrounds me. I’m afraid between books and the brief royal visits in the past, there’s still much I want to know about this beautiful capital.” And the surrounding provinces, but that would come with time.
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Tythra could play the court game very well. She suspected it was a better game than most in Colchis. She knew how to turn on the charm, the smiles, and the laughters and the niceties. (After all, that’s all she received from her different Ladies growing up. Nothing was ever sincere.) But it was different being on this side of the table. Tythra suspected this was exactly how Yanni felt. She suddenly not only had a man that she had to impress but a family in which to keep happy. All the while Tythra had to not be… insincere but also… say exactly what they wished to hear?
Honestly, feelings and emotions were something that Tythra much rather bury deep. She almost wished this was a transaction. She wouldn’t have to worry so much that she was boring to the Princess or King. She wouldn’t have to question her every word, even her every breath, as if the slightest wrong thing would ruin her chances at a throne, at love, and besmirch her family name. Tythra had to be graceful under pressure, and what enormous pressure it was.
She wished she could pop into the King’s mind. Did he find her beautiful? Kind? Was he nervous as well? Or did he find her horrid and was looking for any way to send her back and not offend her family at the same time? Gods, this was not like Tythra. She was confident. She was sure. She marched on a path all her own and didn’t let others dictate how she talked, acted, or thought. Yet here she was, a nervous little girl tiptoeing around like she was on a frozen lake with sirens circling beneath ready to drown her. If her brother saw her now he wouldn’t believe it. He’d laugh at her, or call her an idiot, or both. Because this was… idiotic. She shouldn’t be this nervous.
And yet…
Tythra was grateful for the wine if only to ease her nerves. And they were very correct, nothing could match wine from the Condos vineyards. Next time Tythra was in Taengea she would have to personally thank them, for they gave way to an easy response. “Oh yes, it truly is remarkable. When Yanni first arrived from Taengea we bonded over our love for their wine, shared a glass of it ourselves. I am… glad that this tradition has remained now with the two of you.” Yes, bonding over wine, how... a love that every Greek kingdom shared.
“The journey was long but peaceful. I’m afraid I don’t have anything of interest to share. The waters were calm, and not even a pirate to provide a lively story to regale the two of you. I supposed I should count that as a blessing.” She joked, trying to ease more herself than anyone else.
“My family is doing quite well. They are… as excited as they are saddened to see me go.” Tythra missed them so much. If she were not a woman of Colchis, then she would have shed tears when onboard the ship. But she was strong and way too damn proud, so she kept calm and carried on.
What did Yanni tell Tythra when she had questioned her so many years ago? Tythra had meant to bring up the conversation to hurt Yanni and hopefully convince her to go back to Taengea. Oh yeah, “They’re pleased, however, that now the family will grow. As am I.” A new husband, two new sisters, and… potentially children down the line.
Tythra was speaking too little words, wasn’t she? It was how people of Colchis spoke, answering questions as directly as possible. Athenians weren’t like that though, were they? They were a lot more proper.
“I was hoping, if it wasn’t too much of a bother, that within the next few days I could have… a tour around the capital.” Tythra was careful with every word she said, not wanting to be rude and demanding within the first hours of her arrival. “It would be lovely if you could join, your Majesty, but I also know that you’re a busy man. If it’s not possible, perhaps Princess Circenia could be of company? I apologize. I am the type of woman who likes to be well informed, and I don’t think it would be very proper of me to live here and not know much of what surrounds me. I’m afraid between books and the brief royal visits in the past, there’s still much I want to know about this beautiful capital.” And the surrounding provinces, but that would come with time.
Tythra could play the court game very well. She suspected it was a better game than most in Colchis. She knew how to turn on the charm, the smiles, and the laughters and the niceties. (After all, that’s all she received from her different Ladies growing up. Nothing was ever sincere.) But it was different being on this side of the table. Tythra suspected this was exactly how Yanni felt. She suddenly not only had a man that she had to impress but a family in which to keep happy. All the while Tythra had to not be… insincere but also… say exactly what they wished to hear?
Honestly, feelings and emotions were something that Tythra much rather bury deep. She almost wished this was a transaction. She wouldn’t have to worry so much that she was boring to the Princess or King. She wouldn’t have to question her every word, even her every breath, as if the slightest wrong thing would ruin her chances at a throne, at love, and besmirch her family name. Tythra had to be graceful under pressure, and what enormous pressure it was.
She wished she could pop into the King’s mind. Did he find her beautiful? Kind? Was he nervous as well? Or did he find her horrid and was looking for any way to send her back and not offend her family at the same time? Gods, this was not like Tythra. She was confident. She was sure. She marched on a path all her own and didn’t let others dictate how she talked, acted, or thought. Yet here she was, a nervous little girl tiptoeing around like she was on a frozen lake with sirens circling beneath ready to drown her. If her brother saw her now he wouldn’t believe it. He’d laugh at her, or call her an idiot, or both. Because this was… idiotic. She shouldn’t be this nervous.
And yet…
Tythra was grateful for the wine if only to ease her nerves. And they were very correct, nothing could match wine from the Condos vineyards. Next time Tythra was in Taengea she would have to personally thank them, for they gave way to an easy response. “Oh yes, it truly is remarkable. When Yanni first arrived from Taengea we bonded over our love for their wine, shared a glass of it ourselves. I am… glad that this tradition has remained now with the two of you.” Yes, bonding over wine, how... a love that every Greek kingdom shared.
“The journey was long but peaceful. I’m afraid I don’t have anything of interest to share. The waters were calm, and not even a pirate to provide a lively story to regale the two of you. I supposed I should count that as a blessing.” She joked, trying to ease more herself than anyone else.
“My family is doing quite well. They are… as excited as they are saddened to see me go.” Tythra missed them so much. If she were not a woman of Colchis, then she would have shed tears when onboard the ship. But she was strong and way too damn proud, so she kept calm and carried on.
What did Yanni tell Tythra when she had questioned her so many years ago? Tythra had meant to bring up the conversation to hurt Yanni and hopefully convince her to go back to Taengea. Oh yeah, “They’re pleased, however, that now the family will grow. As am I.” A new husband, two new sisters, and… potentially children down the line.
Tythra was speaking too little words, wasn’t she? It was how people of Colchis spoke, answering questions as directly as possible. Athenians weren’t like that though, were they? They were a lot more proper.
“I was hoping, if it wasn’t too much of a bother, that within the next few days I could have… a tour around the capital.” Tythra was careful with every word she said, not wanting to be rude and demanding within the first hours of her arrival. “It would be lovely if you could join, your Majesty, but I also know that you’re a busy man. If it’s not possible, perhaps Princess Circenia could be of company? I apologize. I am the type of woman who likes to be well informed, and I don’t think it would be very proper of me to live here and not know much of what surrounds me. I’m afraid between books and the brief royal visits in the past, there’s still much I want to know about this beautiful capital.” And the surrounding provinces, but that would come with time.
Minas breathed an internal sigh of relief when Circenia got her beseeching, discreet look. They had grown up together quite close, even more so after the passing of their father when Minas took up the mantle of both elder brother and father along with being a young King. Circenia had been a great help to him the whole while, and he relied on her for many things. Minas was unlike many men of their era who thought women were but ornaments, and included Circenia in many of his discussions, fully taking her words into consideration.
In this case, he relied on her words to fill the silence.
Instead, Minas simply sipped the wine the servants served, and nodded when the time called for it each time his sister addressed him. For the large part however, the young King merely allowed the two ladies to converse. That was what they did best, was it not? Minas knew what to say when it came to political discussions and debates, but small talk and the skill to sustain them eluded him. It was his luck that Circenia was, in turn, blessed with the grace and skills to be a perfect hostess, for that filled many gaps where his lack of a wife left him, and focused on ensuring the servants filled everyone's trenchers with food.
That didn't mean however, that he wasn't listening. Unlike most of the men in his company, Minas was a considerate soul, a soft one, but still someone who ensured he listened to every word spoken in his company. He still was a picture of rapt attention as Tythra told them tales of her journey here (or lack thereof) and of her family as Circenia had asked of her. That he was to marry her seemed to be an eventual thing. Afterall, being a princess to Colchis, she had been raised to lead a kingdom, was she not? With a lack of choices as of now, Minas can't imagine who else would make a better candidate.
"Of course, I would do my best, Your Highness." he responded quickly, when Tythra requested for his presence in her travels. He had already requested Circenia to bring her around the city, perhaps even a short trip to a neighboring seaside province to sample the fresh seafood Athenia was so famous for. That she would request for his presence however, did throw his plans off kilter a little. Minas had planned for meetings with his advisors to put forth a new plan and system for some provinces which were falling behind in tax payments, but he could rearrange some, he supposed.
Trying to see if Circenia approved of her, Minas at least, was pleasantly pleased that Tythra actually thought of touring Athenia to get to know the kingdom that she was supposed to be Queen of. It was a sign of a good Queen, was it not? It would mean his people would have someone who cared for them, even if she was not born of them. "There would be the weekend markets tomorow, when the merchants of lands far away come and drop by our port. I think Princess Tythra would enjoy that, would she not sister?" he asked cordially, even as his mind shifted his schedule around his head wildly. Minas made a mental note to check with his scribe later for his schedule, but none of his working cogs showed up as he picked at a slice of cheese and cured meat. "Is there anything in particular you'd be interested in?" he asked the visiting princess, motioning for the servant to fill her plate with food.
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Minas breathed an internal sigh of relief when Circenia got her beseeching, discreet look. They had grown up together quite close, even more so after the passing of their father when Minas took up the mantle of both elder brother and father along with being a young King. Circenia had been a great help to him the whole while, and he relied on her for many things. Minas was unlike many men of their era who thought women were but ornaments, and included Circenia in many of his discussions, fully taking her words into consideration.
In this case, he relied on her words to fill the silence.
Instead, Minas simply sipped the wine the servants served, and nodded when the time called for it each time his sister addressed him. For the large part however, the young King merely allowed the two ladies to converse. That was what they did best, was it not? Minas knew what to say when it came to political discussions and debates, but small talk and the skill to sustain them eluded him. It was his luck that Circenia was, in turn, blessed with the grace and skills to be a perfect hostess, for that filled many gaps where his lack of a wife left him, and focused on ensuring the servants filled everyone's trenchers with food.
That didn't mean however, that he wasn't listening. Unlike most of the men in his company, Minas was a considerate soul, a soft one, but still someone who ensured he listened to every word spoken in his company. He still was a picture of rapt attention as Tythra told them tales of her journey here (or lack thereof) and of her family as Circenia had asked of her. That he was to marry her seemed to be an eventual thing. Afterall, being a princess to Colchis, she had been raised to lead a kingdom, was she not? With a lack of choices as of now, Minas can't imagine who else would make a better candidate.
"Of course, I would do my best, Your Highness." he responded quickly, when Tythra requested for his presence in her travels. He had already requested Circenia to bring her around the city, perhaps even a short trip to a neighboring seaside province to sample the fresh seafood Athenia was so famous for. That she would request for his presence however, did throw his plans off kilter a little. Minas had planned for meetings with his advisors to put forth a new plan and system for some provinces which were falling behind in tax payments, but he could rearrange some, he supposed.
Trying to see if Circenia approved of her, Minas at least, was pleasantly pleased that Tythra actually thought of touring Athenia to get to know the kingdom that she was supposed to be Queen of. It was a sign of a good Queen, was it not? It would mean his people would have someone who cared for them, even if she was not born of them. "There would be the weekend markets tomorow, when the merchants of lands far away come and drop by our port. I think Princess Tythra would enjoy that, would she not sister?" he asked cordially, even as his mind shifted his schedule around his head wildly. Minas made a mental note to check with his scribe later for his schedule, but none of his working cogs showed up as he picked at a slice of cheese and cured meat. "Is there anything in particular you'd be interested in?" he asked the visiting princess, motioning for the servant to fill her plate with food.
Minas breathed an internal sigh of relief when Circenia got her beseeching, discreet look. They had grown up together quite close, even more so after the passing of their father when Minas took up the mantle of both elder brother and father along with being a young King. Circenia had been a great help to him the whole while, and he relied on her for many things. Minas was unlike many men of their era who thought women were but ornaments, and included Circenia in many of his discussions, fully taking her words into consideration.
In this case, he relied on her words to fill the silence.
Instead, Minas simply sipped the wine the servants served, and nodded when the time called for it each time his sister addressed him. For the large part however, the young King merely allowed the two ladies to converse. That was what they did best, was it not? Minas knew what to say when it came to political discussions and debates, but small talk and the skill to sustain them eluded him. It was his luck that Circenia was, in turn, blessed with the grace and skills to be a perfect hostess, for that filled many gaps where his lack of a wife left him, and focused on ensuring the servants filled everyone's trenchers with food.
That didn't mean however, that he wasn't listening. Unlike most of the men in his company, Minas was a considerate soul, a soft one, but still someone who ensured he listened to every word spoken in his company. He still was a picture of rapt attention as Tythra told them tales of her journey here (or lack thereof) and of her family as Circenia had asked of her. That he was to marry her seemed to be an eventual thing. Afterall, being a princess to Colchis, she had been raised to lead a kingdom, was she not? With a lack of choices as of now, Minas can't imagine who else would make a better candidate.
"Of course, I would do my best, Your Highness." he responded quickly, when Tythra requested for his presence in her travels. He had already requested Circenia to bring her around the city, perhaps even a short trip to a neighboring seaside province to sample the fresh seafood Athenia was so famous for. That she would request for his presence however, did throw his plans off kilter a little. Minas had planned for meetings with his advisors to put forth a new plan and system for some provinces which were falling behind in tax payments, but he could rearrange some, he supposed.
Trying to see if Circenia approved of her, Minas at least, was pleasantly pleased that Tythra actually thought of touring Athenia to get to know the kingdom that she was supposed to be Queen of. It was a sign of a good Queen, was it not? It would mean his people would have someone who cared for them, even if she was not born of them. "There would be the weekend markets tomorow, when the merchants of lands far away come and drop by our port. I think Princess Tythra would enjoy that, would she not sister?" he asked cordially, even as his mind shifted his schedule around his head wildly. Minas made a mental note to check with his scribe later for his schedule, but none of his working cogs showed up as he picked at a slice of cheese and cured meat. "Is there anything in particular you'd be interested in?" he asked the visiting princess, motioning for the servant to fill her plate with food.
“Even if such a tale would be quite rousing, I am glad your journey held little interest, Your Highness,” Circenia told Tythra with a smile, nodding at her description of the boat ride over. No pirates, no sea serpents, no trouble at all. Good for her, but rather… disappointing, otherwise. Not that she would let that disappointment show, of course; it was hardly becoming of her to wish an ill fate on anyone, much less the woman who could soon be her sister-in-law.
The princess kept her face schooled to polite interest, nodding, shaking her head, and sighing or laughing at the appropriate intervals of Tythra’s speech. Truthfully, she cared little for the woman’s answers, but a lot could be discerned about someone not just from the words they said, but the way they said them. In fact, Circenia found she could often learn more from those subtle cues, rather than the speech itself. She had always been remarkably intuitive when it came to such things, and she supposed it stemmed from her environment. Being raised around liars and flatterers meant she quickly learned how to sniff such things out, selective on who she trusted. The short list came down to Minas and sometimes Sera, but she held little regard for her oldest sibling. Would Tythra be able to count herself among those few?
Somehow, she doubted it.
“An excellent idea, to tour the capital,” Circenia agreed when Tythra suggested it. “You are right, it is hard to rule a kingdom if you know little of what surrounds you. It would be my honor to show you around, Princess Tythra. I would be happy to fill whatever lack my brother cannot.”
Smiling at Minas, the expression was a bit more genuine than it had been when turned on Tythra. For all her scheming and all her ideals of power, Circenia did love her brother and held him in higher regard than she did anyone else. Of course, a lot of that had to do with the way he favored her, the lenience he showed her and his allowance for her machinations. Had he been less open to her suggestions, perhaps she would not have esteemed so highly. A good thing for them all that he possessed the sort of open heart he did.
Nodding in agreement as he spoke of the weekend markets, she turned back to Tythra. “Yes, that would be perfect. I am sure you would enjoy it. It is quite the spectacle to behold, and the merchants always bring such… exotic things. Last year, there was even one selling monkeys, can you believe that? I nearly bought one for myself until our dear older sister was kind enough to remind me of how messy they are. Cute, though.”
Raising her glass to her lips, she sipped delicate at her wine as she quietly observed Tythra’s reactions to their little back and forth. So far, she seemed quite capable of handling herself, and Circenia wasn’t sure if that was a good thing or a bad thing. The more time they spent together, the better she would be able to gauge, so she found herself quite looking forward to accompanying her to the markets the next day. Any time that could be spent observing the older princess was valuable, and Circenia was nothing if not a connoisseur of worth.
Was Tythra worthy of bearing the name Xanthos? Well, they would all know soon enough, particularly if Circenia had her say.
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“Even if such a tale would be quite rousing, I am glad your journey held little interest, Your Highness,” Circenia told Tythra with a smile, nodding at her description of the boat ride over. No pirates, no sea serpents, no trouble at all. Good for her, but rather… disappointing, otherwise. Not that she would let that disappointment show, of course; it was hardly becoming of her to wish an ill fate on anyone, much less the woman who could soon be her sister-in-law.
The princess kept her face schooled to polite interest, nodding, shaking her head, and sighing or laughing at the appropriate intervals of Tythra’s speech. Truthfully, she cared little for the woman’s answers, but a lot could be discerned about someone not just from the words they said, but the way they said them. In fact, Circenia found she could often learn more from those subtle cues, rather than the speech itself. She had always been remarkably intuitive when it came to such things, and she supposed it stemmed from her environment. Being raised around liars and flatterers meant she quickly learned how to sniff such things out, selective on who she trusted. The short list came down to Minas and sometimes Sera, but she held little regard for her oldest sibling. Would Tythra be able to count herself among those few?
Somehow, she doubted it.
“An excellent idea, to tour the capital,” Circenia agreed when Tythra suggested it. “You are right, it is hard to rule a kingdom if you know little of what surrounds you. It would be my honor to show you around, Princess Tythra. I would be happy to fill whatever lack my brother cannot.”
Smiling at Minas, the expression was a bit more genuine than it had been when turned on Tythra. For all her scheming and all her ideals of power, Circenia did love her brother and held him in higher regard than she did anyone else. Of course, a lot of that had to do with the way he favored her, the lenience he showed her and his allowance for her machinations. Had he been less open to her suggestions, perhaps she would not have esteemed so highly. A good thing for them all that he possessed the sort of open heart he did.
Nodding in agreement as he spoke of the weekend markets, she turned back to Tythra. “Yes, that would be perfect. I am sure you would enjoy it. It is quite the spectacle to behold, and the merchants always bring such… exotic things. Last year, there was even one selling monkeys, can you believe that? I nearly bought one for myself until our dear older sister was kind enough to remind me of how messy they are. Cute, though.”
Raising her glass to her lips, she sipped delicate at her wine as she quietly observed Tythra’s reactions to their little back and forth. So far, she seemed quite capable of handling herself, and Circenia wasn’t sure if that was a good thing or a bad thing. The more time they spent together, the better she would be able to gauge, so she found herself quite looking forward to accompanying her to the markets the next day. Any time that could be spent observing the older princess was valuable, and Circenia was nothing if not a connoisseur of worth.
Was Tythra worthy of bearing the name Xanthos? Well, they would all know soon enough, particularly if Circenia had her say.
“Even if such a tale would be quite rousing, I am glad your journey held little interest, Your Highness,” Circenia told Tythra with a smile, nodding at her description of the boat ride over. No pirates, no sea serpents, no trouble at all. Good for her, but rather… disappointing, otherwise. Not that she would let that disappointment show, of course; it was hardly becoming of her to wish an ill fate on anyone, much less the woman who could soon be her sister-in-law.
The princess kept her face schooled to polite interest, nodding, shaking her head, and sighing or laughing at the appropriate intervals of Tythra’s speech. Truthfully, she cared little for the woman’s answers, but a lot could be discerned about someone not just from the words they said, but the way they said them. In fact, Circenia found she could often learn more from those subtle cues, rather than the speech itself. She had always been remarkably intuitive when it came to such things, and she supposed it stemmed from her environment. Being raised around liars and flatterers meant she quickly learned how to sniff such things out, selective on who she trusted. The short list came down to Minas and sometimes Sera, but she held little regard for her oldest sibling. Would Tythra be able to count herself among those few?
Somehow, she doubted it.
“An excellent idea, to tour the capital,” Circenia agreed when Tythra suggested it. “You are right, it is hard to rule a kingdom if you know little of what surrounds you. It would be my honor to show you around, Princess Tythra. I would be happy to fill whatever lack my brother cannot.”
Smiling at Minas, the expression was a bit more genuine than it had been when turned on Tythra. For all her scheming and all her ideals of power, Circenia did love her brother and held him in higher regard than she did anyone else. Of course, a lot of that had to do with the way he favored her, the lenience he showed her and his allowance for her machinations. Had he been less open to her suggestions, perhaps she would not have esteemed so highly. A good thing for them all that he possessed the sort of open heart he did.
Nodding in agreement as he spoke of the weekend markets, she turned back to Tythra. “Yes, that would be perfect. I am sure you would enjoy it. It is quite the spectacle to behold, and the merchants always bring such… exotic things. Last year, there was even one selling monkeys, can you believe that? I nearly bought one for myself until our dear older sister was kind enough to remind me of how messy they are. Cute, though.”
Raising her glass to her lips, she sipped delicate at her wine as she quietly observed Tythra’s reactions to their little back and forth. So far, she seemed quite capable of handling herself, and Circenia wasn’t sure if that was a good thing or a bad thing. The more time they spent together, the better she would be able to gauge, so she found herself quite looking forward to accompanying her to the markets the next day. Any time that could be spent observing the older princess was valuable, and Circenia was nothing if not a connoisseur of worth.
Was Tythra worthy of bearing the name Xanthos? Well, they would all know soon enough, particularly if Circenia had her say.
Monkeys?
Athenia was odd. It wasn’t that Tythra was so uncultured to not see exotic animals. Never did she desire to keep one though. The people of Colchis were practical people. A hound might due, or even a cat to hunt the rats. Monkeys were… well, a tad over the top were they not? It seemed like it was more of something that Taengeans would be interested in, rather than Athenia.
And that prospect frightened Tythra. It wasn’t just the landscape Tythra was unfamiliar with, it was the people. How different were the Greek kingdoms from one another? They all shared a language and the same type of political system, but were there nuances that went beyond what Tythra read and experienced as a visitor?
“There’s nothing, in particular, I’m interested in, your Majesty. I’m just so excited to experience it all.” Tythra replied. At least Minas would be joining. She was so afraid this would be a cold marriage. People in Colchis, particularly the Kotas, were very good at bottling their emotions. But that did not mean they were without a heart. Tythra hoped to get to know the man that she would marry. She would one day have children with him, raise a family, lie beside him in bed. She wanted this man to be someone who was kind and thoughtful. Not… cold and uncaring.
Though, Tythra knew her duty. But so far King Minas and his sister have been nothing but kind. It gave Princess Tythra hope that when she became Queen Tythra, it would be a moment of joy and a celebration of partnership rather than simply another political alliance.
Tythra couldn’t wait to write home to her father and brother. She would tell them that she had arrived safely and of the warm welcome the Princess and King gave her. She would tell them not to worry and that everything in Athenia was fine. She would ask them to send her love to Yanni, her sister, and inform her that she missed her very much. Not that… Tythra would share this with Minas or his family. They won’t ever know how much Tythra missed Colchis, just like Yanni had missed Taengea. It would be her secret to take to the grave. Or… at least until she had a daughter that may be married off to a Prince in another kingdom.
But that was in the future, and now she had to focus on the present. “A monkey does sound adorable, Princess Circenia. I would love to see one,” Tythra agreed, with a small giggle. “Though… perhaps when I am well rested and with a full stomach.” And with that being said, her eyes flickered to Minas, still sparkling with joy. “Shall we begin?”
The first feast of many… Tythra hoped.
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Monkeys?
Athenia was odd. It wasn’t that Tythra was so uncultured to not see exotic animals. Never did she desire to keep one though. The people of Colchis were practical people. A hound might due, or even a cat to hunt the rats. Monkeys were… well, a tad over the top were they not? It seemed like it was more of something that Taengeans would be interested in, rather than Athenia.
And that prospect frightened Tythra. It wasn’t just the landscape Tythra was unfamiliar with, it was the people. How different were the Greek kingdoms from one another? They all shared a language and the same type of political system, but were there nuances that went beyond what Tythra read and experienced as a visitor?
“There’s nothing, in particular, I’m interested in, your Majesty. I’m just so excited to experience it all.” Tythra replied. At least Minas would be joining. She was so afraid this would be a cold marriage. People in Colchis, particularly the Kotas, were very good at bottling their emotions. But that did not mean they were without a heart. Tythra hoped to get to know the man that she would marry. She would one day have children with him, raise a family, lie beside him in bed. She wanted this man to be someone who was kind and thoughtful. Not… cold and uncaring.
Though, Tythra knew her duty. But so far King Minas and his sister have been nothing but kind. It gave Princess Tythra hope that when she became Queen Tythra, it would be a moment of joy and a celebration of partnership rather than simply another political alliance.
Tythra couldn’t wait to write home to her father and brother. She would tell them that she had arrived safely and of the warm welcome the Princess and King gave her. She would tell them not to worry and that everything in Athenia was fine. She would ask them to send her love to Yanni, her sister, and inform her that she missed her very much. Not that… Tythra would share this with Minas or his family. They won’t ever know how much Tythra missed Colchis, just like Yanni had missed Taengea. It would be her secret to take to the grave. Or… at least until she had a daughter that may be married off to a Prince in another kingdom.
But that was in the future, and now she had to focus on the present. “A monkey does sound adorable, Princess Circenia. I would love to see one,” Tythra agreed, with a small giggle. “Though… perhaps when I am well rested and with a full stomach.” And with that being said, her eyes flickered to Minas, still sparkling with joy. “Shall we begin?”
The first feast of many… Tythra hoped.
Monkeys?
Athenia was odd. It wasn’t that Tythra was so uncultured to not see exotic animals. Never did she desire to keep one though. The people of Colchis were practical people. A hound might due, or even a cat to hunt the rats. Monkeys were… well, a tad over the top were they not? It seemed like it was more of something that Taengeans would be interested in, rather than Athenia.
And that prospect frightened Tythra. It wasn’t just the landscape Tythra was unfamiliar with, it was the people. How different were the Greek kingdoms from one another? They all shared a language and the same type of political system, but were there nuances that went beyond what Tythra read and experienced as a visitor?
“There’s nothing, in particular, I’m interested in, your Majesty. I’m just so excited to experience it all.” Tythra replied. At least Minas would be joining. She was so afraid this would be a cold marriage. People in Colchis, particularly the Kotas, were very good at bottling their emotions. But that did not mean they were without a heart. Tythra hoped to get to know the man that she would marry. She would one day have children with him, raise a family, lie beside him in bed. She wanted this man to be someone who was kind and thoughtful. Not… cold and uncaring.
Though, Tythra knew her duty. But so far King Minas and his sister have been nothing but kind. It gave Princess Tythra hope that when she became Queen Tythra, it would be a moment of joy and a celebration of partnership rather than simply another political alliance.
Tythra couldn’t wait to write home to her father and brother. She would tell them that she had arrived safely and of the warm welcome the Princess and King gave her. She would tell them not to worry and that everything in Athenia was fine. She would ask them to send her love to Yanni, her sister, and inform her that she missed her very much. Not that… Tythra would share this with Minas or his family. They won’t ever know how much Tythra missed Colchis, just like Yanni had missed Taengea. It would be her secret to take to the grave. Or… at least until she had a daughter that may be married off to a Prince in another kingdom.
But that was in the future, and now she had to focus on the present. “A monkey does sound adorable, Princess Circenia. I would love to see one,” Tythra agreed, with a small giggle. “Though… perhaps when I am well rested and with a full stomach.” And with that being said, her eyes flickered to Minas, still sparkling with joy. “Shall we begin?”