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Phaedra desperately needed a drink, preferably with some sort of distraction. They were only here in Taengea for one night before they were to leave again shortly thereafter for Egypt. On the boat, she had been in tight quarters with her own troops and there she had to keep up a brave face. They were heading to war and she was expected to exude an air of bravery and confidence in the face of battle. Now as the day wore on, and the troops were given one day of shore leave before they were to head on to Egypt, Phaedra finally could have a few moments to herself.
She had chosen a taverna near the docks where the soldiers had landed, but far enough away that it wouldn’t be swarming with soldiers looking for the first place to purchase food, alcohol, and a good time. The place had more people looking for a meal and a conversation than hoping to get drunk and that suited Phaedra just fine. Less of a chance for her drinks and potentially dinner when she got around to it, to be interrupted by rowdy soldiers.
Phaedra ordered two cups of a half-decent wine both for herself so that she could drink in peace without having to go bother the tavern owner again when she had finished. She drained the first cup quickly as she watched the people at the other tables happily talking and dining, seemingly oblivious to the war that was about to be waged on foreign soil. A war that could very well have come to their own shores if the Greeks had not chosen to take preemptive action. That is what she fought for, that others might be able to live their happy, oblivious lives in safety.
Perhaps it had been a mistake to seek solitude right before they left for Egypt. The wine was not providing the distraction she was seeking, instead leaving only her concern about the battles ahead while dulling the rational thought that allowed her to set those worries aside. Luckily, she glanced up to see a familiar face entering the tavern, and she gave a quick wave to alert her to her presence as she started sipping her second cup of wine.
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Phaedra desperately needed a drink, preferably with some sort of distraction. They were only here in Taengea for one night before they were to leave again shortly thereafter for Egypt. On the boat, she had been in tight quarters with her own troops and there she had to keep up a brave face. They were heading to war and she was expected to exude an air of bravery and confidence in the face of battle. Now as the day wore on, and the troops were given one day of shore leave before they were to head on to Egypt, Phaedra finally could have a few moments to herself.
She had chosen a taverna near the docks where the soldiers had landed, but far enough away that it wouldn’t be swarming with soldiers looking for the first place to purchase food, alcohol, and a good time. The place had more people looking for a meal and a conversation than hoping to get drunk and that suited Phaedra just fine. Less of a chance for her drinks and potentially dinner when she got around to it, to be interrupted by rowdy soldiers.
Phaedra ordered two cups of a half-decent wine both for herself so that she could drink in peace without having to go bother the tavern owner again when she had finished. She drained the first cup quickly as she watched the people at the other tables happily talking and dining, seemingly oblivious to the war that was about to be waged on foreign soil. A war that could very well have come to their own shores if the Greeks had not chosen to take preemptive action. That is what she fought for, that others might be able to live their happy, oblivious lives in safety.
Perhaps it had been a mistake to seek solitude right before they left for Egypt. The wine was not providing the distraction she was seeking, instead leaving only her concern about the battles ahead while dulling the rational thought that allowed her to set those worries aside. Luckily, she glanced up to see a familiar face entering the tavern, and she gave a quick wave to alert her to her presence as she started sipping her second cup of wine.
Phaedra desperately needed a drink, preferably with some sort of distraction. They were only here in Taengea for one night before they were to leave again shortly thereafter for Egypt. On the boat, she had been in tight quarters with her own troops and there she had to keep up a brave face. They were heading to war and she was expected to exude an air of bravery and confidence in the face of battle. Now as the day wore on, and the troops were given one day of shore leave before they were to head on to Egypt, Phaedra finally could have a few moments to herself.
She had chosen a taverna near the docks where the soldiers had landed, but far enough away that it wouldn’t be swarming with soldiers looking for the first place to purchase food, alcohol, and a good time. The place had more people looking for a meal and a conversation than hoping to get drunk and that suited Phaedra just fine. Less of a chance for her drinks and potentially dinner when she got around to it, to be interrupted by rowdy soldiers.
Phaedra ordered two cups of a half-decent wine both for herself so that she could drink in peace without having to go bother the tavern owner again when she had finished. She drained the first cup quickly as she watched the people at the other tables happily talking and dining, seemingly oblivious to the war that was about to be waged on foreign soil. A war that could very well have come to their own shores if the Greeks had not chosen to take preemptive action. That is what she fought for, that others might be able to live their happy, oblivious lives in safety.
Perhaps it had been a mistake to seek solitude right before they left for Egypt. The wine was not providing the distraction she was seeking, instead leaving only her concern about the battles ahead while dulling the rational thought that allowed her to set those worries aside. Luckily, she glanced up to see a familiar face entering the tavern, and she gave a quick wave to alert her to her presence as she started sipping her second cup of wine.
She had promised herself to stay out of taverns after what she would only refer to as the incident in Midas last year, but after two grueling weeks at sea with nothing but the ship’s walls and her comrades to look at -- Zosime was desperate for new sights. Taengea was one of the places she had been rarely enough that it could feel exciting just being there, and the archer had every intention of hunting down any potential leads on her brother’s whereabouts. The Colchian had gone to a closer tavern, but it was full of too many familiar faces for her liking. She’d seen enough of them, and would be stuck seeing them for a while yet as they sailed another fortnight towards Egypt. Her lip curled in disgust at the thought of that hell-pit of sand and heat.
When she came across the second tavern, it was less crowded with the Colchian forces and Zosime felt her shoulders relax a little. Her icy gaze was scanning it for the pair of pirates that she had managed to get herself into trouble with last year -- a habit that she had picked up since she never knew where they’d turn up next. If she never saw them again, it’d be too damn soon. However, it was Phaedra that she spotted -- the blonde lieutenant lifting her hand in a quick wave. Zosi hesitated, debating whether that was an invitation to join her commanding officer or not. She supposed it was invitation enough.
The darker woman approached, her steps almost soundless. She was dressed normally, trading in her typical military attire for something less conspicuous. Admittedly she felt odd out of uniform, but gods above her, she wanted to be able to ask questions without being badgered to death about military strategies she had no business knowing. She took the seat to Phaedra’s right, quite symbolic of their entire relationship. Zosi saw herself as something of Phaedra’s right hand, the two of them having known each other longer than just about anyone else in the unit.
”That bad, Phae?” She asked, raising an eyebrow at the two cups sitting before them, one already empty. Her tone was casual, playful almost. They were off duty. She wasn’t going to offer the woman the formalities that she was afforded when they were with the unit. ”Gods save us.” She said with a snort, waving away someone who came to try to offer her something to drink. She raised her waterskin, earning an ired look from the tavern keeper.
”Food.” She said dismissively, laying out a coin to prove her intent to purchase and not just take up valuable space. When they disappeared, she ran a hand across her face and pushed it up into the braid she was wearing -- pulling at it to loosen it some so it wouldn’t give her a headache.
”Taengea looks a lot different than I remember it last.” She murmured, turning her head to take in the place. ”You always did know how to pick a tavern.” She grinned, showing all of her teeth.
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She had promised herself to stay out of taverns after what she would only refer to as the incident in Midas last year, but after two grueling weeks at sea with nothing but the ship’s walls and her comrades to look at -- Zosime was desperate for new sights. Taengea was one of the places she had been rarely enough that it could feel exciting just being there, and the archer had every intention of hunting down any potential leads on her brother’s whereabouts. The Colchian had gone to a closer tavern, but it was full of too many familiar faces for her liking. She’d seen enough of them, and would be stuck seeing them for a while yet as they sailed another fortnight towards Egypt. Her lip curled in disgust at the thought of that hell-pit of sand and heat.
When she came across the second tavern, it was less crowded with the Colchian forces and Zosime felt her shoulders relax a little. Her icy gaze was scanning it for the pair of pirates that she had managed to get herself into trouble with last year -- a habit that she had picked up since she never knew where they’d turn up next. If she never saw them again, it’d be too damn soon. However, it was Phaedra that she spotted -- the blonde lieutenant lifting her hand in a quick wave. Zosi hesitated, debating whether that was an invitation to join her commanding officer or not. She supposed it was invitation enough.
The darker woman approached, her steps almost soundless. She was dressed normally, trading in her typical military attire for something less conspicuous. Admittedly she felt odd out of uniform, but gods above her, she wanted to be able to ask questions without being badgered to death about military strategies she had no business knowing. She took the seat to Phaedra’s right, quite symbolic of their entire relationship. Zosi saw herself as something of Phaedra’s right hand, the two of them having known each other longer than just about anyone else in the unit.
”That bad, Phae?” She asked, raising an eyebrow at the two cups sitting before them, one already empty. Her tone was casual, playful almost. They were off duty. She wasn’t going to offer the woman the formalities that she was afforded when they were with the unit. ”Gods save us.” She said with a snort, waving away someone who came to try to offer her something to drink. She raised her waterskin, earning an ired look from the tavern keeper.
”Food.” She said dismissively, laying out a coin to prove her intent to purchase and not just take up valuable space. When they disappeared, she ran a hand across her face and pushed it up into the braid she was wearing -- pulling at it to loosen it some so it wouldn’t give her a headache.
”Taengea looks a lot different than I remember it last.” She murmured, turning her head to take in the place. ”You always did know how to pick a tavern.” She grinned, showing all of her teeth.
She had promised herself to stay out of taverns after what she would only refer to as the incident in Midas last year, but after two grueling weeks at sea with nothing but the ship’s walls and her comrades to look at -- Zosime was desperate for new sights. Taengea was one of the places she had been rarely enough that it could feel exciting just being there, and the archer had every intention of hunting down any potential leads on her brother’s whereabouts. The Colchian had gone to a closer tavern, but it was full of too many familiar faces for her liking. She’d seen enough of them, and would be stuck seeing them for a while yet as they sailed another fortnight towards Egypt. Her lip curled in disgust at the thought of that hell-pit of sand and heat.
When she came across the second tavern, it was less crowded with the Colchian forces and Zosime felt her shoulders relax a little. Her icy gaze was scanning it for the pair of pirates that she had managed to get herself into trouble with last year -- a habit that she had picked up since she never knew where they’d turn up next. If she never saw them again, it’d be too damn soon. However, it was Phaedra that she spotted -- the blonde lieutenant lifting her hand in a quick wave. Zosi hesitated, debating whether that was an invitation to join her commanding officer or not. She supposed it was invitation enough.
The darker woman approached, her steps almost soundless. She was dressed normally, trading in her typical military attire for something less conspicuous. Admittedly she felt odd out of uniform, but gods above her, she wanted to be able to ask questions without being badgered to death about military strategies she had no business knowing. She took the seat to Phaedra’s right, quite symbolic of their entire relationship. Zosi saw herself as something of Phaedra’s right hand, the two of them having known each other longer than just about anyone else in the unit.
”That bad, Phae?” She asked, raising an eyebrow at the two cups sitting before them, one already empty. Her tone was casual, playful almost. They were off duty. She wasn’t going to offer the woman the formalities that she was afforded when they were with the unit. ”Gods save us.” She said with a snort, waving away someone who came to try to offer her something to drink. She raised her waterskin, earning an ired look from the tavern keeper.
”Food.” She said dismissively, laying out a coin to prove her intent to purchase and not just take up valuable space. When they disappeared, she ran a hand across her face and pushed it up into the braid she was wearing -- pulling at it to loosen it some so it wouldn’t give her a headache.
”Taengea looks a lot different than I remember it last.” She murmured, turning her head to take in the place. ”You always did know how to pick a tavern.” She grinned, showing all of her teeth.
Dorothea had been intrigued today. Inspired even. Watching those women archers practice gave her a feeling of kindred spirits that she had never felt before with other archers. The fact that she wasn’t the odd woman out, the only one who could shoot with success and with pride, that made Dorothea feel like she wasn’t truly alone for the first time in her life. Of course, she’d hardly spoken with any of these women archers, but they were intriguing to her nonetheless. She could tell by the way that they practiced that she had more in common with them than most of the women in Taengea. It was something Dorothea had been searching for most of her life, but had no idea what that meant.
After her brief introduction to the lieutenant and her second, Dorothea had stayed to watch them train, but left before they had finished. Perhaps she was intimidated, Dorothea couldn’t really say. However, when she changed her mind shortly after, she had returned to find the women gone. A few well placed questions told her which direction the lieutenant had headed. Dorothea had no idea what she was going to say when she found the woman, but all she knew was that she had to speak to hear, learn more about her unit.
The idea that had been percolating in the back of her head for some time now was starting to take on new light as she met the characters that would make it real. Could she really join these women warriors? Would they let her? Perhaps that was not something she would be outright asking tonight, but it was something she could feel out in more detail after further interaction. Dorothea could not let this chance escape her.
It did not take her long to realize where the lieutenant had gone—this was an area that Dorothea had never entered herself. However, she knew enough of it to wish she was dressed even more plainly than her simple dark green chiton. She might not stick out immediately, but she might not fit in all too well either. She couldn’t go back and change now—she might lose Lieutenant Phaedra.
Dorothea peeked her head in a few taverns, not finding her target, but finally had luck at one that was a little further out of the way. That pleased her as hopefully she wouldn’t run across anyone else she knew. She didn’t think that her cousin would frequent any tavern on the eve before they were heading off to war, but she didn’t know who might report to him that would. It would be unfortunate for him to think that she was hanging about with some purpose. For she knew if Vangelis suspected anything, he would find her and ensure she stayed in Taengea quicker than she could count to three. That was something she could not let happen.
Although Dorothea was no tavern frequenter, confidence was not something she lacked, and she made her way through the people, towards the table where the two women sat. She had not thought of anything in particular to say, but that had never been a particular problem before.
“Hello Lieutenant,” she greeted, nodding to both of the women. “I hate to interrupt, but I was wondering if I might take some more of your time? The next round is on me.”
Well, better to go boldly than not at all, she figured.
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Dorothea had been intrigued today. Inspired even. Watching those women archers practice gave her a feeling of kindred spirits that she had never felt before with other archers. The fact that she wasn’t the odd woman out, the only one who could shoot with success and with pride, that made Dorothea feel like she wasn’t truly alone for the first time in her life. Of course, she’d hardly spoken with any of these women archers, but they were intriguing to her nonetheless. She could tell by the way that they practiced that she had more in common with them than most of the women in Taengea. It was something Dorothea had been searching for most of her life, but had no idea what that meant.
After her brief introduction to the lieutenant and her second, Dorothea had stayed to watch them train, but left before they had finished. Perhaps she was intimidated, Dorothea couldn’t really say. However, when she changed her mind shortly after, she had returned to find the women gone. A few well placed questions told her which direction the lieutenant had headed. Dorothea had no idea what she was going to say when she found the woman, but all she knew was that she had to speak to hear, learn more about her unit.
The idea that had been percolating in the back of her head for some time now was starting to take on new light as she met the characters that would make it real. Could she really join these women warriors? Would they let her? Perhaps that was not something she would be outright asking tonight, but it was something she could feel out in more detail after further interaction. Dorothea could not let this chance escape her.
It did not take her long to realize where the lieutenant had gone—this was an area that Dorothea had never entered herself. However, she knew enough of it to wish she was dressed even more plainly than her simple dark green chiton. She might not stick out immediately, but she might not fit in all too well either. She couldn’t go back and change now—she might lose Lieutenant Phaedra.
Dorothea peeked her head in a few taverns, not finding her target, but finally had luck at one that was a little further out of the way. That pleased her as hopefully she wouldn’t run across anyone else she knew. She didn’t think that her cousin would frequent any tavern on the eve before they were heading off to war, but she didn’t know who might report to him that would. It would be unfortunate for him to think that she was hanging about with some purpose. For she knew if Vangelis suspected anything, he would find her and ensure she stayed in Taengea quicker than she could count to three. That was something she could not let happen.
Although Dorothea was no tavern frequenter, confidence was not something she lacked, and she made her way through the people, towards the table where the two women sat. She had not thought of anything in particular to say, but that had never been a particular problem before.
“Hello Lieutenant,” she greeted, nodding to both of the women. “I hate to interrupt, but I was wondering if I might take some more of your time? The next round is on me.”
Well, better to go boldly than not at all, she figured.
Dorothea had been intrigued today. Inspired even. Watching those women archers practice gave her a feeling of kindred spirits that she had never felt before with other archers. The fact that she wasn’t the odd woman out, the only one who could shoot with success and with pride, that made Dorothea feel like she wasn’t truly alone for the first time in her life. Of course, she’d hardly spoken with any of these women archers, but they were intriguing to her nonetheless. She could tell by the way that they practiced that she had more in common with them than most of the women in Taengea. It was something Dorothea had been searching for most of her life, but had no idea what that meant.
After her brief introduction to the lieutenant and her second, Dorothea had stayed to watch them train, but left before they had finished. Perhaps she was intimidated, Dorothea couldn’t really say. However, when she changed her mind shortly after, she had returned to find the women gone. A few well placed questions told her which direction the lieutenant had headed. Dorothea had no idea what she was going to say when she found the woman, but all she knew was that she had to speak to hear, learn more about her unit.
The idea that had been percolating in the back of her head for some time now was starting to take on new light as she met the characters that would make it real. Could she really join these women warriors? Would they let her? Perhaps that was not something she would be outright asking tonight, but it was something she could feel out in more detail after further interaction. Dorothea could not let this chance escape her.
It did not take her long to realize where the lieutenant had gone—this was an area that Dorothea had never entered herself. However, she knew enough of it to wish she was dressed even more plainly than her simple dark green chiton. She might not stick out immediately, but she might not fit in all too well either. She couldn’t go back and change now—she might lose Lieutenant Phaedra.
Dorothea peeked her head in a few taverns, not finding her target, but finally had luck at one that was a little further out of the way. That pleased her as hopefully she wouldn’t run across anyone else she knew. She didn’t think that her cousin would frequent any tavern on the eve before they were heading off to war, but she didn’t know who might report to him that would. It would be unfortunate for him to think that she was hanging about with some purpose. For she knew if Vangelis suspected anything, he would find her and ensure she stayed in Taengea quicker than she could count to three. That was something she could not let happen.
Although Dorothea was no tavern frequenter, confidence was not something she lacked, and she made her way through the people, towards the table where the two women sat. She had not thought of anything in particular to say, but that had never been a particular problem before.
“Hello Lieutenant,” she greeted, nodding to both of the women. “I hate to interrupt, but I was wondering if I might take some more of your time? The next round is on me.”
Well, better to go boldly than not at all, she figured.
Phaedra sipped at her second cup of wine as Zosi came to join her at her table. It was somewhat of a relief not to be left alone with her thoughts. Tomorrow they shipped off to Egypt. It would be yet more weeks of being stuck on a boat and then they’d be on Egyptian soil. She was not looking forward to it. Too many good women had never left those shores again last time. No, now was not the time to think about that. She turned as Zosi addressed her. She smiled wryly at her second’s admonition. “What? I can’t enjoy a couple of drinks before we ship off to war?” That was her attempt at levity, though she couldn’t be sure it had landed. She hated to let her soldiers see that she was uncomfortable heading to war, it was bad for morale. That was part of why she had chosen such an out of the way place. Zosi wasn’t just any soldier though, and she was glad she was here.
Phaedra laughed a bit at Zosi refusing the alcohol. She didn’t know the entire story but knew enough to know that she’d decided that drinking was a bad idea. To the comment of picking a good tavern, she simply responded, “I suppose that’s one benefit of growing up in one.” Phaedra never spoke much of her past. She had run from it the second she was old enough to make her own way in the world. Though the fact that she grew up in an inn wouldn’t have been news to Zosi. She’d have gotten enough bits and pieces over the years to put together a picture of her background. “Supposedly they have the freshest fish in town,” Phaedra added. She had yet to purchase any food, though she was beginning to regret that with a cup and a half of wine on her stomach.
Phaedra was considering ordering some food herself, but when she looked up there was the woman the General had introduced to her earlier. She was not the last person Phaedra was expecting to see in this tavern, but she was pretty close. Still, the woman had shown a good deal of interest in the fact that there were women archers in Colchis. She was not in the best mood for dealing with the random questions of this woman, but she definitely didn’t want to be rude to a personal friend of the General. Besides, having someone else pay for drinks was always nice.
“Not at all,” Phaedra replied to Dorothea’s question, attempting to make that answer appear true. “What brings you here?” Phaedra could only guess that she had been tracked down specifically so she could be asked questions. Dorothea’s curiosity about her job had seemed strong when they met earlier. She could almost commend the woman on the lengths she went to to get her questions answered, if only it hadn’t been her than Dorothea had decided she needed to track down. Well, it wasn’t often that many people saw the women soldiers in such a positive light, perhaps she might enjoy this conversation after all.
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Phaedra sipped at her second cup of wine as Zosi came to join her at her table. It was somewhat of a relief not to be left alone with her thoughts. Tomorrow they shipped off to Egypt. It would be yet more weeks of being stuck on a boat and then they’d be on Egyptian soil. She was not looking forward to it. Too many good women had never left those shores again last time. No, now was not the time to think about that. She turned as Zosi addressed her. She smiled wryly at her second’s admonition. “What? I can’t enjoy a couple of drinks before we ship off to war?” That was her attempt at levity, though she couldn’t be sure it had landed. She hated to let her soldiers see that she was uncomfortable heading to war, it was bad for morale. That was part of why she had chosen such an out of the way place. Zosi wasn’t just any soldier though, and she was glad she was here.
Phaedra laughed a bit at Zosi refusing the alcohol. She didn’t know the entire story but knew enough to know that she’d decided that drinking was a bad idea. To the comment of picking a good tavern, she simply responded, “I suppose that’s one benefit of growing up in one.” Phaedra never spoke much of her past. She had run from it the second she was old enough to make her own way in the world. Though the fact that she grew up in an inn wouldn’t have been news to Zosi. She’d have gotten enough bits and pieces over the years to put together a picture of her background. “Supposedly they have the freshest fish in town,” Phaedra added. She had yet to purchase any food, though she was beginning to regret that with a cup and a half of wine on her stomach.
Phaedra was considering ordering some food herself, but when she looked up there was the woman the General had introduced to her earlier. She was not the last person Phaedra was expecting to see in this tavern, but she was pretty close. Still, the woman had shown a good deal of interest in the fact that there were women archers in Colchis. She was not in the best mood for dealing with the random questions of this woman, but she definitely didn’t want to be rude to a personal friend of the General. Besides, having someone else pay for drinks was always nice.
“Not at all,” Phaedra replied to Dorothea’s question, attempting to make that answer appear true. “What brings you here?” Phaedra could only guess that she had been tracked down specifically so she could be asked questions. Dorothea’s curiosity about her job had seemed strong when they met earlier. She could almost commend the woman on the lengths she went to to get her questions answered, if only it hadn’t been her than Dorothea had decided she needed to track down. Well, it wasn’t often that many people saw the women soldiers in such a positive light, perhaps she might enjoy this conversation after all.
Phaedra sipped at her second cup of wine as Zosi came to join her at her table. It was somewhat of a relief not to be left alone with her thoughts. Tomorrow they shipped off to Egypt. It would be yet more weeks of being stuck on a boat and then they’d be on Egyptian soil. She was not looking forward to it. Too many good women had never left those shores again last time. No, now was not the time to think about that. She turned as Zosi addressed her. She smiled wryly at her second’s admonition. “What? I can’t enjoy a couple of drinks before we ship off to war?” That was her attempt at levity, though she couldn’t be sure it had landed. She hated to let her soldiers see that she was uncomfortable heading to war, it was bad for morale. That was part of why she had chosen such an out of the way place. Zosi wasn’t just any soldier though, and she was glad she was here.
Phaedra laughed a bit at Zosi refusing the alcohol. She didn’t know the entire story but knew enough to know that she’d decided that drinking was a bad idea. To the comment of picking a good tavern, she simply responded, “I suppose that’s one benefit of growing up in one.” Phaedra never spoke much of her past. She had run from it the second she was old enough to make her own way in the world. Though the fact that she grew up in an inn wouldn’t have been news to Zosi. She’d have gotten enough bits and pieces over the years to put together a picture of her background. “Supposedly they have the freshest fish in town,” Phaedra added. She had yet to purchase any food, though she was beginning to regret that with a cup and a half of wine on her stomach.
Phaedra was considering ordering some food herself, but when she looked up there was the woman the General had introduced to her earlier. She was not the last person Phaedra was expecting to see in this tavern, but she was pretty close. Still, the woman had shown a good deal of interest in the fact that there were women archers in Colchis. She was not in the best mood for dealing with the random questions of this woman, but she definitely didn’t want to be rude to a personal friend of the General. Besides, having someone else pay for drinks was always nice.
“Not at all,” Phaedra replied to Dorothea’s question, attempting to make that answer appear true. “What brings you here?” Phaedra could only guess that she had been tracked down specifically so she could be asked questions. Dorothea’s curiosity about her job had seemed strong when they met earlier. She could almost commend the woman on the lengths she went to to get her questions answered, if only it hadn’t been her than Dorothea had decided she needed to track down. Well, it wasn’t often that many people saw the women soldiers in such a positive light, perhaps she might enjoy this conversation after all.
What I can’t enjoy a couple of drinks before we ship off to war?
Zosime smiled, knowing just how deeply the hatred of war ran for both of them. She could not begrudge her friend for finding comfort in something that she could not. She was extremely affected by alcohol. It was sad really, when all she wanted was to forget her cares for a while. It was dangerous though, to let her anywhere near anything too strong. She became too relaxed, unable to control herself or her tongue. The last time she’d gotten drunk with Phaedra, she’d spilled so many dark secrets to the blonde. Even though they were close, she would not have shared those things.
”I’m just messing with you.” She said, shaking her head with a small smile. She straightened a little, still leaning on the top. At Phaedra’s mention of fish, Zosi wrinkled her nose. She hated fish. She stuck out her tongue as she shook her head. ”Hopefully they don’t bring me any fish.” She said, looking where the person who had taken her coin for her request for food had gone.
She was about to launch into general conversation, careful to avoid war topics since she knew that such things were being talked to death on the ship -- but it seemed that she was not going to have to supply all of tonight’s entertainment. Her blue gaze lifted at the sound of another’s voice, finding the brunette who had joined them on the beach earlier in the day. Zosime nodded back, noting that she was not directly addressed...but that was fine by her. She had always preferred to be in the background of things. That was why she didn’t lead her own unit, when by her own rights...she certainly could have. Her mother would have been thrilled if she’d take up command in Lyncaea.
I was wondering if I might take some more of your time?
Her eyes cut to Phaedra’s but the lieutenant only had eyes for the other woman. A lesser woman might have been jealous. Instead, Zosime simply slid over, making room for Dorothea between them. ”I don’t drink.”[/i] She said quickly, before the other woman could spend her coin on something that would sit untouched. She held up a hand, gently refusing any other offers. Phaedra asked the only question that Zosi wanted to know -- so she said nothing else, waiting for the answer.
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What I can’t enjoy a couple of drinks before we ship off to war?
Zosime smiled, knowing just how deeply the hatred of war ran for both of them. She could not begrudge her friend for finding comfort in something that she could not. She was extremely affected by alcohol. It was sad really, when all she wanted was to forget her cares for a while. It was dangerous though, to let her anywhere near anything too strong. She became too relaxed, unable to control herself or her tongue. The last time she’d gotten drunk with Phaedra, she’d spilled so many dark secrets to the blonde. Even though they were close, she would not have shared those things.
”I’m just messing with you.” She said, shaking her head with a small smile. She straightened a little, still leaning on the top. At Phaedra’s mention of fish, Zosi wrinkled her nose. She hated fish. She stuck out her tongue as she shook her head. ”Hopefully they don’t bring me any fish.” She said, looking where the person who had taken her coin for her request for food had gone.
She was about to launch into general conversation, careful to avoid war topics since she knew that such things were being talked to death on the ship -- but it seemed that she was not going to have to supply all of tonight’s entertainment. Her blue gaze lifted at the sound of another’s voice, finding the brunette who had joined them on the beach earlier in the day. Zosime nodded back, noting that she was not directly addressed...but that was fine by her. She had always preferred to be in the background of things. That was why she didn’t lead her own unit, when by her own rights...she certainly could have. Her mother would have been thrilled if she’d take up command in Lyncaea.
I was wondering if I might take some more of your time?
Her eyes cut to Phaedra’s but the lieutenant only had eyes for the other woman. A lesser woman might have been jealous. Instead, Zosime simply slid over, making room for Dorothea between them. ”I don’t drink.”[/i] She said quickly, before the other woman could spend her coin on something that would sit untouched. She held up a hand, gently refusing any other offers. Phaedra asked the only question that Zosi wanted to know -- so she said nothing else, waiting for the answer.
What I can’t enjoy a couple of drinks before we ship off to war?
Zosime smiled, knowing just how deeply the hatred of war ran for both of them. She could not begrudge her friend for finding comfort in something that she could not. She was extremely affected by alcohol. It was sad really, when all she wanted was to forget her cares for a while. It was dangerous though, to let her anywhere near anything too strong. She became too relaxed, unable to control herself or her tongue. The last time she’d gotten drunk with Phaedra, she’d spilled so many dark secrets to the blonde. Even though they were close, she would not have shared those things.
”I’m just messing with you.” She said, shaking her head with a small smile. She straightened a little, still leaning on the top. At Phaedra’s mention of fish, Zosi wrinkled her nose. She hated fish. She stuck out her tongue as she shook her head. ”Hopefully they don’t bring me any fish.” She said, looking where the person who had taken her coin for her request for food had gone.
She was about to launch into general conversation, careful to avoid war topics since she knew that such things were being talked to death on the ship -- but it seemed that she was not going to have to supply all of tonight’s entertainment. Her blue gaze lifted at the sound of another’s voice, finding the brunette who had joined them on the beach earlier in the day. Zosime nodded back, noting that she was not directly addressed...but that was fine by her. She had always preferred to be in the background of things. That was why she didn’t lead her own unit, when by her own rights...she certainly could have. Her mother would have been thrilled if she’d take up command in Lyncaea.
I was wondering if I might take some more of your time?
Her eyes cut to Phaedra’s but the lieutenant only had eyes for the other woman. A lesser woman might have been jealous. Instead, Zosime simply slid over, making room for Dorothea between them. ”I don’t drink.”[/i] She said quickly, before the other woman could spend her coin on something that would sit untouched. She held up a hand, gently refusing any other offers. Phaedra asked the only question that Zosi wanted to know -- so she said nothing else, waiting for the answer.
So far so good, Dorothea thought, when the lieutenant and her second didn’t immediately kick her out of their sight. They had every right. They were about to head off to war, this may have been one of the last nights that they could truly relax. And here she was stealing that from them. Dorothea instantly berated herself for such rude behavior. However, she could not pass up an opportunity to get to know them better. And potentially find a way in. For if she was being honest, Dorothea wanted to join them quite badly. She had thought about it for a long time and it seemed like the right path for her to take.
Dorothea had so longed to be useful. That was a large part of the recent conflict with her father. She felt that she could have been useful to Persephone and Iason in Athenia and that her father had denied that. He had promised to teach her more about ruling their people, but with his recent wedding and now new marriage, that had yet to happen. Dorothea didn’t blame him. He was starting a new chapter in his life. A well deserved one, too. He deserved happiness. And if Evie brought that to him, well then Dorothea would respect that.
However, didn’t his own new chapter mean that she deserved one too? Dorothea had too long been stagnant in her life. She did the same things every day and while that had once brought her happiness, it now brought a sense of uselessness. On top of that, she had served as her father’s confidant and companion in many things for years, but now she was replaced with a wife. Perhaps she never should have been in that position—or likely wouldn’t have been had her mother lived—but that did not erase the reality of the past years of her life.
She was hungry for something new and a small part of her hoped that these two women might provide it. Dorothea had never known others like herself. And after watching some of their practice, she was impressed by their skills. Perhaps, if they would entertain the idea, Dorothea would make an excellent addition to their numbers. Surely they could not say no to an offer of another archer? Of course, she wouldn’t lead with that. She wanted to get more information first.
“Thank you,” Dorothea smiled at Zosime when she made space for her at the table. “I was very impressed by your archers today. You both have trained them well.” She had to rein herself in from babbling in her excitement. It was almost like she was a child again, overly exited about a passion project. She had matured since then, but this had always been a dream of hers, to meet these women.
“I have always wanted to see your unit in action,” she said aloud, echoing her thoughts. “I have heard many wonderful things. I am an archer myself. It is rare for me to meet other women of such skill. It is not as welcome here in Taengea. How long have you both been with the unit? What brought you to it?”
Although Phaedra was the leader of the archers, Dorothea wanted to hear from them both. She wanted to know what it was like for like for others who might wish to join. Could she have a chance? The barmaid came by again, Dorothea gesturing for some drinks for her and the lieutenant, though there was a chance she was too excited to have anything herself. She wanted to know everything.
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So far so good, Dorothea thought, when the lieutenant and her second didn’t immediately kick her out of their sight. They had every right. They were about to head off to war, this may have been one of the last nights that they could truly relax. And here she was stealing that from them. Dorothea instantly berated herself for such rude behavior. However, she could not pass up an opportunity to get to know them better. And potentially find a way in. For if she was being honest, Dorothea wanted to join them quite badly. She had thought about it for a long time and it seemed like the right path for her to take.
Dorothea had so longed to be useful. That was a large part of the recent conflict with her father. She felt that she could have been useful to Persephone and Iason in Athenia and that her father had denied that. He had promised to teach her more about ruling their people, but with his recent wedding and now new marriage, that had yet to happen. Dorothea didn’t blame him. He was starting a new chapter in his life. A well deserved one, too. He deserved happiness. And if Evie brought that to him, well then Dorothea would respect that.
However, didn’t his own new chapter mean that she deserved one too? Dorothea had too long been stagnant in her life. She did the same things every day and while that had once brought her happiness, it now brought a sense of uselessness. On top of that, she had served as her father’s confidant and companion in many things for years, but now she was replaced with a wife. Perhaps she never should have been in that position—or likely wouldn’t have been had her mother lived—but that did not erase the reality of the past years of her life.
She was hungry for something new and a small part of her hoped that these two women might provide it. Dorothea had never known others like herself. And after watching some of their practice, she was impressed by their skills. Perhaps, if they would entertain the idea, Dorothea would make an excellent addition to their numbers. Surely they could not say no to an offer of another archer? Of course, she wouldn’t lead with that. She wanted to get more information first.
“Thank you,” Dorothea smiled at Zosime when she made space for her at the table. “I was very impressed by your archers today. You both have trained them well.” She had to rein herself in from babbling in her excitement. It was almost like she was a child again, overly exited about a passion project. She had matured since then, but this had always been a dream of hers, to meet these women.
“I have always wanted to see your unit in action,” she said aloud, echoing her thoughts. “I have heard many wonderful things. I am an archer myself. It is rare for me to meet other women of such skill. It is not as welcome here in Taengea. How long have you both been with the unit? What brought you to it?”
Although Phaedra was the leader of the archers, Dorothea wanted to hear from them both. She wanted to know what it was like for like for others who might wish to join. Could she have a chance? The barmaid came by again, Dorothea gesturing for some drinks for her and the lieutenant, though there was a chance she was too excited to have anything herself. She wanted to know everything.
So far so good, Dorothea thought, when the lieutenant and her second didn’t immediately kick her out of their sight. They had every right. They were about to head off to war, this may have been one of the last nights that they could truly relax. And here she was stealing that from them. Dorothea instantly berated herself for such rude behavior. However, she could not pass up an opportunity to get to know them better. And potentially find a way in. For if she was being honest, Dorothea wanted to join them quite badly. She had thought about it for a long time and it seemed like the right path for her to take.
Dorothea had so longed to be useful. That was a large part of the recent conflict with her father. She felt that she could have been useful to Persephone and Iason in Athenia and that her father had denied that. He had promised to teach her more about ruling their people, but with his recent wedding and now new marriage, that had yet to happen. Dorothea didn’t blame him. He was starting a new chapter in his life. A well deserved one, too. He deserved happiness. And if Evie brought that to him, well then Dorothea would respect that.
However, didn’t his own new chapter mean that she deserved one too? Dorothea had too long been stagnant in her life. She did the same things every day and while that had once brought her happiness, it now brought a sense of uselessness. On top of that, she had served as her father’s confidant and companion in many things for years, but now she was replaced with a wife. Perhaps she never should have been in that position—or likely wouldn’t have been had her mother lived—but that did not erase the reality of the past years of her life.
She was hungry for something new and a small part of her hoped that these two women might provide it. Dorothea had never known others like herself. And after watching some of their practice, she was impressed by their skills. Perhaps, if they would entertain the idea, Dorothea would make an excellent addition to their numbers. Surely they could not say no to an offer of another archer? Of course, she wouldn’t lead with that. She wanted to get more information first.
“Thank you,” Dorothea smiled at Zosime when she made space for her at the table. “I was very impressed by your archers today. You both have trained them well.” She had to rein herself in from babbling in her excitement. It was almost like she was a child again, overly exited about a passion project. She had matured since then, but this had always been a dream of hers, to meet these women.
“I have always wanted to see your unit in action,” she said aloud, echoing her thoughts. “I have heard many wonderful things. I am an archer myself. It is rare for me to meet other women of such skill. It is not as welcome here in Taengea. How long have you both been with the unit? What brought you to it?”
Although Phaedra was the leader of the archers, Dorothea wanted to hear from them both. She wanted to know what it was like for like for others who might wish to join. Could she have a chance? The barmaid came by again, Dorothea gesturing for some drinks for her and the lieutenant, though there was a chance she was too excited to have anything herself. She wanted to know everything.
Phaedra had not had the best of luck talking to nobles lately. Hopefully this encounter would go better than other such meetings. Those previous encounters might have caused her to dismiss this curious noblewoman out of hand. If she hadn’t been friends with the General, she very well might have. As the woman spoke again, she was glad she had not made such a hasty decision.
Complementing Phaedra’s soldiers was a quick way to get in her good graces, and the woman’s tense expression relaxed into an expression that one might be able to call neutral, and one that those who knew Phaedra would recognize as a good mood. “So you’d heard of my unit before?” Phaedra asked. It was so strange to her to think that someone in a foreign land knew of her and her achievements. Perhaps it was just that the General had shared her accomplishments. Still, it was nice to be appreciated even by a total stranger.
That the woman was herself an archer was quickly dismissed as unimportant to Phaedra. She knew many nobles liked to think that they were accomplished in the arts of war, and they probably were compared to many people. However, she didn’t think very highly of anyone who had never had their skills tried in battle. It was an entirely different experience than shooting at targets. Given the sheltered lives she knew most noblewomen to lead, it seemed unlikely she’d had the chance for anything more than that.
As to what had brought her to her profession. It wasn’t entirely like she had chosen it because it had strongly appealed to her as a choice of profession. It had appealed to her as a way out of a poor childhood. She supposed when one grew up with choices constantly around them, such considerations mattered. For her, they had not, but such personal details were not a thing to share with this woman she barely knew, even if she was paying for their drinks. “Well it was either this or wait tables for the rest of my life,” she answered with a bitter laugh. “I’m not entirely sure I picked the better deal.”
It was uncomfortable enough having the spotlight of the conversation turned on her own personal history. She turned the questioning back on Dorothea. “What about you? What do you find so fascinating that you would take the trouble to seek us out just to speak with us and pay for our drinks.” It was a mindset that honestly confused Phaedra. The gods knew she was no great conversationalist. She wasn’t objecting though. Someone who wanted both to compliment her soldiers and pay for her drinks was good in her books.
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Phaedra had not had the best of luck talking to nobles lately. Hopefully this encounter would go better than other such meetings. Those previous encounters might have caused her to dismiss this curious noblewoman out of hand. If she hadn’t been friends with the General, she very well might have. As the woman spoke again, she was glad she had not made such a hasty decision.
Complementing Phaedra’s soldiers was a quick way to get in her good graces, and the woman’s tense expression relaxed into an expression that one might be able to call neutral, and one that those who knew Phaedra would recognize as a good mood. “So you’d heard of my unit before?” Phaedra asked. It was so strange to her to think that someone in a foreign land knew of her and her achievements. Perhaps it was just that the General had shared her accomplishments. Still, it was nice to be appreciated even by a total stranger.
That the woman was herself an archer was quickly dismissed as unimportant to Phaedra. She knew many nobles liked to think that they were accomplished in the arts of war, and they probably were compared to many people. However, she didn’t think very highly of anyone who had never had their skills tried in battle. It was an entirely different experience than shooting at targets. Given the sheltered lives she knew most noblewomen to lead, it seemed unlikely she’d had the chance for anything more than that.
As to what had brought her to her profession. It wasn’t entirely like she had chosen it because it had strongly appealed to her as a choice of profession. It had appealed to her as a way out of a poor childhood. She supposed when one grew up with choices constantly around them, such considerations mattered. For her, they had not, but such personal details were not a thing to share with this woman she barely knew, even if she was paying for their drinks. “Well it was either this or wait tables for the rest of my life,” she answered with a bitter laugh. “I’m not entirely sure I picked the better deal.”
It was uncomfortable enough having the spotlight of the conversation turned on her own personal history. She turned the questioning back on Dorothea. “What about you? What do you find so fascinating that you would take the trouble to seek us out just to speak with us and pay for our drinks.” It was a mindset that honestly confused Phaedra. The gods knew she was no great conversationalist. She wasn’t objecting though. Someone who wanted both to compliment her soldiers and pay for her drinks was good in her books.
Phaedra had not had the best of luck talking to nobles lately. Hopefully this encounter would go better than other such meetings. Those previous encounters might have caused her to dismiss this curious noblewoman out of hand. If she hadn’t been friends with the General, she very well might have. As the woman spoke again, she was glad she had not made such a hasty decision.
Complementing Phaedra’s soldiers was a quick way to get in her good graces, and the woman’s tense expression relaxed into an expression that one might be able to call neutral, and one that those who knew Phaedra would recognize as a good mood. “So you’d heard of my unit before?” Phaedra asked. It was so strange to her to think that someone in a foreign land knew of her and her achievements. Perhaps it was just that the General had shared her accomplishments. Still, it was nice to be appreciated even by a total stranger.
That the woman was herself an archer was quickly dismissed as unimportant to Phaedra. She knew many nobles liked to think that they were accomplished in the arts of war, and they probably were compared to many people. However, she didn’t think very highly of anyone who had never had their skills tried in battle. It was an entirely different experience than shooting at targets. Given the sheltered lives she knew most noblewomen to lead, it seemed unlikely she’d had the chance for anything more than that.
As to what had brought her to her profession. It wasn’t entirely like she had chosen it because it had strongly appealed to her as a choice of profession. It had appealed to her as a way out of a poor childhood. She supposed when one grew up with choices constantly around them, such considerations mattered. For her, they had not, but such personal details were not a thing to share with this woman she barely knew, even if she was paying for their drinks. “Well it was either this or wait tables for the rest of my life,” she answered with a bitter laugh. “I’m not entirely sure I picked the better deal.”
It was uncomfortable enough having the spotlight of the conversation turned on her own personal history. She turned the questioning back on Dorothea. “What about you? What do you find so fascinating that you would take the trouble to seek us out just to speak with us and pay for our drinks.” It was a mindset that honestly confused Phaedra. The gods knew she was no great conversationalist. She wasn’t objecting though. Someone who wanted both to compliment her soldiers and pay for her drinks was good in her books.
Zosime nursed her water, wishing that it was something strong. It was wholly unfair that she could not enjoy drinks like the rest of the soldiers, forced to confront her demons head-on instead of getting to drown them in the swill for a few hours at a time. Her fingers wrapped posessively around her cup, lifting it to her lips every few moments as she listened and waited. She had seen Dorothea on the beach. It had been just a cursory glance, but when certain Colchian royalty had made a point to introduce her -- well, that had certainly piqued her interest.
She was of similar mind as Phaedra, knowing plenty of nobility that thought they could handle the bow. Oftentimes it was sloppy, or downright terrible -- another royal coming to mind, although this one was Taengean. Gods, he’d been horrible at it. Perhaps the worst that she’d ever seen. The memory of him brought a slight curve to her lips, as she looked down into the darkness of her cup.
”Women with weapons aren’t welcome much of anywhere.” She said, giving a shrug of her shoulders. There was a flicker of pain, a soreness that she had only just recently earned. ”But we manage. We fight twice as hard to prove we can stand on the same sands as men.” She sounded bored, flicking her braid over her shoulder. Her blue gaze looked over the young woman, finding her to be young and untried. Not the most ideal situation for a recruit, especially if they were considering taking her along to Egypt.
Zosi raised her eyebrows as she considered her own length of service. ”Fuck.” She murmured, rubbing her chin as she turned back to her drink. I think I was eighteen when I finally joined...I spent a couple of years…” She trailed off, not sure she wanted to share her brother with this virtual stranger. ”doing other things.” She shrugged, lifting the drink back to her lips. Zosimos was a sore point. She had been looking for him for the better part of a decade...but he had left not a single trail for her to follow.
She snorted into her drink at the idea of Phaedra waiting tables as a barmaid. ”Gods, I’d pay money to see that.” She snickered. ”I didn’t want to raise children and run a household. Zosi said of herself, waiving a hand. ”Although my mother would have been very proud of me then.”
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Zosime nursed her water, wishing that it was something strong. It was wholly unfair that she could not enjoy drinks like the rest of the soldiers, forced to confront her demons head-on instead of getting to drown them in the swill for a few hours at a time. Her fingers wrapped posessively around her cup, lifting it to her lips every few moments as she listened and waited. She had seen Dorothea on the beach. It had been just a cursory glance, but when certain Colchian royalty had made a point to introduce her -- well, that had certainly piqued her interest.
She was of similar mind as Phaedra, knowing plenty of nobility that thought they could handle the bow. Oftentimes it was sloppy, or downright terrible -- another royal coming to mind, although this one was Taengean. Gods, he’d been horrible at it. Perhaps the worst that she’d ever seen. The memory of him brought a slight curve to her lips, as she looked down into the darkness of her cup.
”Women with weapons aren’t welcome much of anywhere.” She said, giving a shrug of her shoulders. There was a flicker of pain, a soreness that she had only just recently earned. ”But we manage. We fight twice as hard to prove we can stand on the same sands as men.” She sounded bored, flicking her braid over her shoulder. Her blue gaze looked over the young woman, finding her to be young and untried. Not the most ideal situation for a recruit, especially if they were considering taking her along to Egypt.
Zosi raised her eyebrows as she considered her own length of service. ”Fuck.” She murmured, rubbing her chin as she turned back to her drink. I think I was eighteen when I finally joined...I spent a couple of years…” She trailed off, not sure she wanted to share her brother with this virtual stranger. ”doing other things.” She shrugged, lifting the drink back to her lips. Zosimos was a sore point. She had been looking for him for the better part of a decade...but he had left not a single trail for her to follow.
She snorted into her drink at the idea of Phaedra waiting tables as a barmaid. ”Gods, I’d pay money to see that.” She snickered. ”I didn’t want to raise children and run a household. Zosi said of herself, waiving a hand. ”Although my mother would have been very proud of me then.”
Zosime nursed her water, wishing that it was something strong. It was wholly unfair that she could not enjoy drinks like the rest of the soldiers, forced to confront her demons head-on instead of getting to drown them in the swill for a few hours at a time. Her fingers wrapped posessively around her cup, lifting it to her lips every few moments as she listened and waited. She had seen Dorothea on the beach. It had been just a cursory glance, but when certain Colchian royalty had made a point to introduce her -- well, that had certainly piqued her interest.
She was of similar mind as Phaedra, knowing plenty of nobility that thought they could handle the bow. Oftentimes it was sloppy, or downright terrible -- another royal coming to mind, although this one was Taengean. Gods, he’d been horrible at it. Perhaps the worst that she’d ever seen. The memory of him brought a slight curve to her lips, as she looked down into the darkness of her cup.
”Women with weapons aren’t welcome much of anywhere.” She said, giving a shrug of her shoulders. There was a flicker of pain, a soreness that she had only just recently earned. ”But we manage. We fight twice as hard to prove we can stand on the same sands as men.” She sounded bored, flicking her braid over her shoulder. Her blue gaze looked over the young woman, finding her to be young and untried. Not the most ideal situation for a recruit, especially if they were considering taking her along to Egypt.
Zosi raised her eyebrows as she considered her own length of service. ”Fuck.” She murmured, rubbing her chin as she turned back to her drink. I think I was eighteen when I finally joined...I spent a couple of years…” She trailed off, not sure she wanted to share her brother with this virtual stranger. ”doing other things.” She shrugged, lifting the drink back to her lips. Zosimos was a sore point. She had been looking for him for the better part of a decade...but he had left not a single trail for her to follow.
She snorted into her drink at the idea of Phaedra waiting tables as a barmaid. ”Gods, I’d pay money to see that.” She snickered. ”I didn’t want to raise children and run a household. Zosi said of herself, waiving a hand. ”Although my mother would have been very proud of me then.”
Dorothea hoped that she wasn’t overstepping any boundaries or her welcome by asking so many questions, but she had always dreamed of the day when she could meet someone from this famous group of archers. It was even better that she could meet the woman in charge. She’d tales from this group from the time she was little. Even though her father wanted her to grow up and be proper eventually and get married didn’t mean that he didn’t want to discourage her passion for archery. With relatives in Colchis that meant she’d heard of this unit.
“Yes,” she responded, nodding. “My cousins are from Colchis, so I’ve heard tales of your unit for some time. It is an honor to finally meet you.” It was her way of skirting around the topic of the fact that this woman’s general was her cousin and she was connected to his family. That fact might come to bear importance to someone eventually, but as far as Dorothea was concerned, it meant nothing now in this conversation. She didn’t want either of these women to look at her any differently. Of course, unless she was shooting. It would be an honor to shoot with them and prove her skills. For she was sure they had dismissed them simply because she was noble. Dorothea didn’t mind for now, determined that she would have her chance to prove herself someday soon.
The young woman listened intently as both women in front of her shared their tales of service. She was surprised that they were so willing to tell her, but felt pleased at the same time. Dorothea wondered how many people truly were ever interested in these women’s lives. Women archers were infamous to her, but in the way of the world that belonged to men, she was sure that it wasn’t the case for everyone.
As Zosime shared her experience about women with weapons being unwelcome, Dorothea couldn’t help but agree. And the fire in which she exuded while sharing that women worked twice as hard to fight alongside of men echoed a feeling Dorothea had herself. She had always worked to prove herself as a credible archer—sometimes a credible human, someone other than a woman whose only purpose was to be married off. She understood these women even if they did not realize it.
She was quiet, sipping on the drink that had been brought, listening intently to the two speak. Dorothea loved seeing the camaraderie between the two—clearly they had been through a lot together. A small smile hit her lips as they spoke of becoming barmaids and mothers. Even though they had come from different walks of life, their goals for themselves were certainly aligned. Just as they did not seem themselves destined for those roles in life, Dorothea did not want to follow what was expected of her either.
Despite these thoughts, she found herself shrugging ever so slightly at the lieutenant’s question, wondering how to answer it. “I have long admired you,” she said slowly, “But I think it’s this chance to meet other women who have defied societal expectations for themselves. And have shown how incredible they are in their craft. I could not lose this opportunity to meet you.”
And perhaps join them, but Dorothea hesitated over saying that. She didn’t know how they would respond. She knew how her cousin would respond. And her father. Neither would approve. But Dorothea was tired of letting her life be dictated by others. She wanted some control in her own destiny.
“Are members of your unit only Colchian?” she asked, curious. “Or do you accept archers from anywhere?”
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Dorothea hoped that she wasn’t overstepping any boundaries or her welcome by asking so many questions, but she had always dreamed of the day when she could meet someone from this famous group of archers. It was even better that she could meet the woman in charge. She’d tales from this group from the time she was little. Even though her father wanted her to grow up and be proper eventually and get married didn’t mean that he didn’t want to discourage her passion for archery. With relatives in Colchis that meant she’d heard of this unit.
“Yes,” she responded, nodding. “My cousins are from Colchis, so I’ve heard tales of your unit for some time. It is an honor to finally meet you.” It was her way of skirting around the topic of the fact that this woman’s general was her cousin and she was connected to his family. That fact might come to bear importance to someone eventually, but as far as Dorothea was concerned, it meant nothing now in this conversation. She didn’t want either of these women to look at her any differently. Of course, unless she was shooting. It would be an honor to shoot with them and prove her skills. For she was sure they had dismissed them simply because she was noble. Dorothea didn’t mind for now, determined that she would have her chance to prove herself someday soon.
The young woman listened intently as both women in front of her shared their tales of service. She was surprised that they were so willing to tell her, but felt pleased at the same time. Dorothea wondered how many people truly were ever interested in these women’s lives. Women archers were infamous to her, but in the way of the world that belonged to men, she was sure that it wasn’t the case for everyone.
As Zosime shared her experience about women with weapons being unwelcome, Dorothea couldn’t help but agree. And the fire in which she exuded while sharing that women worked twice as hard to fight alongside of men echoed a feeling Dorothea had herself. She had always worked to prove herself as a credible archer—sometimes a credible human, someone other than a woman whose only purpose was to be married off. She understood these women even if they did not realize it.
She was quiet, sipping on the drink that had been brought, listening intently to the two speak. Dorothea loved seeing the camaraderie between the two—clearly they had been through a lot together. A small smile hit her lips as they spoke of becoming barmaids and mothers. Even though they had come from different walks of life, their goals for themselves were certainly aligned. Just as they did not seem themselves destined for those roles in life, Dorothea did not want to follow what was expected of her either.
Despite these thoughts, she found herself shrugging ever so slightly at the lieutenant’s question, wondering how to answer it. “I have long admired you,” she said slowly, “But I think it’s this chance to meet other women who have defied societal expectations for themselves. And have shown how incredible they are in their craft. I could not lose this opportunity to meet you.”
And perhaps join them, but Dorothea hesitated over saying that. She didn’t know how they would respond. She knew how her cousin would respond. And her father. Neither would approve. But Dorothea was tired of letting her life be dictated by others. She wanted some control in her own destiny.
“Are members of your unit only Colchian?” she asked, curious. “Or do you accept archers from anywhere?”
Dorothea hoped that she wasn’t overstepping any boundaries or her welcome by asking so many questions, but she had always dreamed of the day when she could meet someone from this famous group of archers. It was even better that she could meet the woman in charge. She’d tales from this group from the time she was little. Even though her father wanted her to grow up and be proper eventually and get married didn’t mean that he didn’t want to discourage her passion for archery. With relatives in Colchis that meant she’d heard of this unit.
“Yes,” she responded, nodding. “My cousins are from Colchis, so I’ve heard tales of your unit for some time. It is an honor to finally meet you.” It was her way of skirting around the topic of the fact that this woman’s general was her cousin and she was connected to his family. That fact might come to bear importance to someone eventually, but as far as Dorothea was concerned, it meant nothing now in this conversation. She didn’t want either of these women to look at her any differently. Of course, unless she was shooting. It would be an honor to shoot with them and prove her skills. For she was sure they had dismissed them simply because she was noble. Dorothea didn’t mind for now, determined that she would have her chance to prove herself someday soon.
The young woman listened intently as both women in front of her shared their tales of service. She was surprised that they were so willing to tell her, but felt pleased at the same time. Dorothea wondered how many people truly were ever interested in these women’s lives. Women archers were infamous to her, but in the way of the world that belonged to men, she was sure that it wasn’t the case for everyone.
As Zosime shared her experience about women with weapons being unwelcome, Dorothea couldn’t help but agree. And the fire in which she exuded while sharing that women worked twice as hard to fight alongside of men echoed a feeling Dorothea had herself. She had always worked to prove herself as a credible archer—sometimes a credible human, someone other than a woman whose only purpose was to be married off. She understood these women even if they did not realize it.
She was quiet, sipping on the drink that had been brought, listening intently to the two speak. Dorothea loved seeing the camaraderie between the two—clearly they had been through a lot together. A small smile hit her lips as they spoke of becoming barmaids and mothers. Even though they had come from different walks of life, their goals for themselves were certainly aligned. Just as they did not seem themselves destined for those roles in life, Dorothea did not want to follow what was expected of her either.
Despite these thoughts, she found herself shrugging ever so slightly at the lieutenant’s question, wondering how to answer it. “I have long admired you,” she said slowly, “But I think it’s this chance to meet other women who have defied societal expectations for themselves. And have shown how incredible they are in their craft. I could not lose this opportunity to meet you.”
And perhaps join them, but Dorothea hesitated over saying that. She didn’t know how they would respond. She knew how her cousin would respond. And her father. Neither would approve. But Dorothea was tired of letting her life be dictated by others. She wanted some control in her own destiny.
“Are members of your unit only Colchian?” she asked, curious. “Or do you accept archers from anywhere?”
Dorothea’s answer to her own question had found her pleasantly surprised. She was more used to defending her own existence as a soldier than finding anyone who was willing to praise the idea. She was not one to smile, especially not while they were gearing up for war, but the wine was good, and the compliments were much appreciated. She had certainly dedicated her life to honing her skills and perfecting the craft of war. At least to the extent that she was allowed it as a woman. It was nice to have all that work recognized by someone.
Then came the question at the end of her praises. Could people from other lands join up with the Colchian archers? Was it an earnest question, or was this just her roundabout way of asking if she could join up? Of course, the flattery was because she wanted something from her. Phaedra’s mood instantly soured. What was it with these nobles with delusions of grandeur? As if she’d accept someone in her unit on the eve of battle with no military training. The idea was laughable. She didn’t have time to train up some spoiled lady while trying to make sure she and everyone whose life she was responsible for were also prepared for battle.
Phaedra sighed, setting her cup of wine down on the table with a louder thunk than she intended. “I’ll be honest. You could do it. We’ve had some people in our military born in other kingdoms or other lands. Now, should you do it?[/i] Phaedra looked her up and down for a moment before continuing. “Do you have any idea what it’s like to go to war? You’ve never known a moment of hardship in your life. War isn’t glamorous. You don’t become a hero. It’s hot and sandy and bloody and awful. I doubt you would last ten minutes.” With that, Phaedra turned to summon the server to refill her glass of wine. She had a feeling she was going to need more alcohol to get through this conversation.
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Dorothea’s answer to her own question had found her pleasantly surprised. She was more used to defending her own existence as a soldier than finding anyone who was willing to praise the idea. She was not one to smile, especially not while they were gearing up for war, but the wine was good, and the compliments were much appreciated. She had certainly dedicated her life to honing her skills and perfecting the craft of war. At least to the extent that she was allowed it as a woman. It was nice to have all that work recognized by someone.
Then came the question at the end of her praises. Could people from other lands join up with the Colchian archers? Was it an earnest question, or was this just her roundabout way of asking if she could join up? Of course, the flattery was because she wanted something from her. Phaedra’s mood instantly soured. What was it with these nobles with delusions of grandeur? As if she’d accept someone in her unit on the eve of battle with no military training. The idea was laughable. She didn’t have time to train up some spoiled lady while trying to make sure she and everyone whose life she was responsible for were also prepared for battle.
Phaedra sighed, setting her cup of wine down on the table with a louder thunk than she intended. “I’ll be honest. You could do it. We’ve had some people in our military born in other kingdoms or other lands. Now, should you do it?[/i] Phaedra looked her up and down for a moment before continuing. “Do you have any idea what it’s like to go to war? You’ve never known a moment of hardship in your life. War isn’t glamorous. You don’t become a hero. It’s hot and sandy and bloody and awful. I doubt you would last ten minutes.” With that, Phaedra turned to summon the server to refill her glass of wine. She had a feeling she was going to need more alcohol to get through this conversation.
Dorothea’s answer to her own question had found her pleasantly surprised. She was more used to defending her own existence as a soldier than finding anyone who was willing to praise the idea. She was not one to smile, especially not while they were gearing up for war, but the wine was good, and the compliments were much appreciated. She had certainly dedicated her life to honing her skills and perfecting the craft of war. At least to the extent that she was allowed it as a woman. It was nice to have all that work recognized by someone.
Then came the question at the end of her praises. Could people from other lands join up with the Colchian archers? Was it an earnest question, or was this just her roundabout way of asking if she could join up? Of course, the flattery was because she wanted something from her. Phaedra’s mood instantly soured. What was it with these nobles with delusions of grandeur? As if she’d accept someone in her unit on the eve of battle with no military training. The idea was laughable. She didn’t have time to train up some spoiled lady while trying to make sure she and everyone whose life she was responsible for were also prepared for battle.
Phaedra sighed, setting her cup of wine down on the table with a louder thunk than she intended. “I’ll be honest. You could do it. We’ve had some people in our military born in other kingdoms or other lands. Now, should you do it?[/i] Phaedra looked her up and down for a moment before continuing. “Do you have any idea what it’s like to go to war? You’ve never known a moment of hardship in your life. War isn’t glamorous. You don’t become a hero. It’s hot and sandy and bloody and awful. I doubt you would last ten minutes.” With that, Phaedra turned to summon the server to refill her glass of wine. She had a feeling she was going to need more alcohol to get through this conversation.
Her food was delivered, and as suspected it was fish. Her delicate nose wrinkled at the sight, blue gaze cutting away from the platter of seafood as she pushed it away with her fingers. It probably wouldn’t cause offense if she could pretend that she’d simply forgotten about it. She took her drink and leaned back, carefully tipping her chair up onto it’s back feet -- and using her core to balance herself. It was such a childish thing, but she found it pleasing nonetheless. Her fingers wrapped around the drink carefully, bringing the water up to her lips. At least it didn’t taste stale like the water on the ship had grown after two weeks at sea.
She rolled her shoulders, working the stiffness from them. She’d had quite the interesting evening already, and it sounded like she was in for more. She’d have to remember to regale Phaedra with her incident at the sweets shop in the agora, after all of this business was done. She had a feeling that Dorothea was not going to be swayed from talk of the unit. It was fair enough. Women in Greece were largely barred from the military, with Colchis being the exception. It was only natural that those of a different mind would seek them out. In fact, she was rather surprised that it was just one woman, but then again their arrival hadn’t been exactly announced.
She listened more than watched as Dorothea spoke, her eyes instead on the blonde commander who seemed rather annoyed already. Phaedra had no patience for the nobility, even if she was quicker to bite her tongue than Zosime. The girl was a wet behind the ears noble, as far as they were both concerned it seemed. What was surprising is that Phaedra said as much, usually infinitely more patient than this. It was true, war was not some game, and one simply couldn’t run home at the first sign of trouble. They’d be hundreds of miles from safety, and having someone inexperienced with the brutal realities of it could put people in danger. Her shortness with the girl spoke volumes about Phaedra’s feelings.
Zosime snorted into her drink, using it to cover up the smile that was spreading across her lips.
Her chair clicked against the floor as she set it back to rights, leaning towards Dorothea. ”Don’t let her scare you too much.” She said companionably. ”She’s right, but we all started somewhere.” She gave the commander a pointed look. Neither of them had been born with a bow in their hands, they’d had to learn it, hone it...and then be tested by the fire that had been their first war in Egypt. She gestured vaguely. ”What are your skills like? Have you ever been under pressure or threat, or is it all merely practice?”
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Her food was delivered, and as suspected it was fish. Her delicate nose wrinkled at the sight, blue gaze cutting away from the platter of seafood as she pushed it away with her fingers. It probably wouldn’t cause offense if she could pretend that she’d simply forgotten about it. She took her drink and leaned back, carefully tipping her chair up onto it’s back feet -- and using her core to balance herself. It was such a childish thing, but she found it pleasing nonetheless. Her fingers wrapped around the drink carefully, bringing the water up to her lips. At least it didn’t taste stale like the water on the ship had grown after two weeks at sea.
She rolled her shoulders, working the stiffness from them. She’d had quite the interesting evening already, and it sounded like she was in for more. She’d have to remember to regale Phaedra with her incident at the sweets shop in the agora, after all of this business was done. She had a feeling that Dorothea was not going to be swayed from talk of the unit. It was fair enough. Women in Greece were largely barred from the military, with Colchis being the exception. It was only natural that those of a different mind would seek them out. In fact, she was rather surprised that it was just one woman, but then again their arrival hadn’t been exactly announced.
She listened more than watched as Dorothea spoke, her eyes instead on the blonde commander who seemed rather annoyed already. Phaedra had no patience for the nobility, even if she was quicker to bite her tongue than Zosime. The girl was a wet behind the ears noble, as far as they were both concerned it seemed. What was surprising is that Phaedra said as much, usually infinitely more patient than this. It was true, war was not some game, and one simply couldn’t run home at the first sign of trouble. They’d be hundreds of miles from safety, and having someone inexperienced with the brutal realities of it could put people in danger. Her shortness with the girl spoke volumes about Phaedra’s feelings.
Zosime snorted into her drink, using it to cover up the smile that was spreading across her lips.
Her chair clicked against the floor as she set it back to rights, leaning towards Dorothea. ”Don’t let her scare you too much.” She said companionably. ”She’s right, but we all started somewhere.” She gave the commander a pointed look. Neither of them had been born with a bow in their hands, they’d had to learn it, hone it...and then be tested by the fire that had been their first war in Egypt. She gestured vaguely. ”What are your skills like? Have you ever been under pressure or threat, or is it all merely practice?”
Her food was delivered, and as suspected it was fish. Her delicate nose wrinkled at the sight, blue gaze cutting away from the platter of seafood as she pushed it away with her fingers. It probably wouldn’t cause offense if she could pretend that she’d simply forgotten about it. She took her drink and leaned back, carefully tipping her chair up onto it’s back feet -- and using her core to balance herself. It was such a childish thing, but she found it pleasing nonetheless. Her fingers wrapped around the drink carefully, bringing the water up to her lips. At least it didn’t taste stale like the water on the ship had grown after two weeks at sea.
She rolled her shoulders, working the stiffness from them. She’d had quite the interesting evening already, and it sounded like she was in for more. She’d have to remember to regale Phaedra with her incident at the sweets shop in the agora, after all of this business was done. She had a feeling that Dorothea was not going to be swayed from talk of the unit. It was fair enough. Women in Greece were largely barred from the military, with Colchis being the exception. It was only natural that those of a different mind would seek them out. In fact, she was rather surprised that it was just one woman, but then again their arrival hadn’t been exactly announced.
She listened more than watched as Dorothea spoke, her eyes instead on the blonde commander who seemed rather annoyed already. Phaedra had no patience for the nobility, even if she was quicker to bite her tongue than Zosime. The girl was a wet behind the ears noble, as far as they were both concerned it seemed. What was surprising is that Phaedra said as much, usually infinitely more patient than this. It was true, war was not some game, and one simply couldn’t run home at the first sign of trouble. They’d be hundreds of miles from safety, and having someone inexperienced with the brutal realities of it could put people in danger. Her shortness with the girl spoke volumes about Phaedra’s feelings.
Zosime snorted into her drink, using it to cover up the smile that was spreading across her lips.
Her chair clicked against the floor as she set it back to rights, leaning towards Dorothea. ”Don’t let her scare you too much.” She said companionably. ”She’s right, but we all started somewhere.” She gave the commander a pointed look. Neither of them had been born with a bow in their hands, they’d had to learn it, hone it...and then be tested by the fire that had been their first war in Egypt. She gestured vaguely. ”What are your skills like? Have you ever been under pressure or threat, or is it all merely practice?”
The conversation had taken a turn, though Dorothea hadn’t expected them to be overjoyed to speak with her in the first place. She was taking up their time on the eve of war. It was likely the last time they would have to relax for weeks or even several months if things went poorly. And here she was, some noble girl asking them fanciful questions about their units and what war was like. Dorothea knew it was foolish and a part of her regretted even asking. However, the other part of her could not let this curiosity rest. Even if she was to learn something firsthand, it would more than what she currently knew.
Lieutenant Phaedra’s words, while probably meant to be unkind, were nothing unexpected. Dorothea didn’t have any clue what it was like to go to war. She only knew what she read and she had argued the point of such theories on many occasions. War did not seem productive to her. What was the point of all the loss of life? Only sadness was ever to be gained from it. Of course, that was not exactly something Dorothea wanted to bring up on the eve these two women were shipping off to battle. It was not a fair reminder.
Dorothea gave Zosime a smile, when she swooped in to save her commander from her words. Though to Dorothea, there was nothing Phaedra needed to be sorry for. She was simply speaking her truth. The noble was glad that Zosi seemed interested in continuing the conversation, even at least for a little bit. Dorothea didn’t want to overstay her welcome.
“I learned to shoot when I was very young. Not long after I was walking, truthfully. My family lives far from the cities. We rely on ourselves for food and protection. I am quite proficient in the hunt, where there can be pressure and danger at times.” It was sometimes dangerous to hunt. Their prey could seriously injure a hunter if they were caught unaware or it was enraged. Dorothea had been part of a few hunts that had taken a nasty turn, though she herself had come out unscathed. Ultimately, they had the advantage over the beast.
Dorothea was grateful that these two women didn’t know her reputation in Taengea. Many said she was blessed by the gods in archery. She liked to think that her own hard work served her well as a contributing factor in her success.
“I have not been to war,” she continued, “ And have no illusion about my chances for success. I have not trained in battle as your unit has, so I cannot say for certain how I would react. I’d like to think that my calm head and years of muscle memory would do me some credit, but…” Dorothea trailed off, shrugging. She truly didn’t know how she would react.
“What I mean to say is that I admire you both greatly. And your unit. As a woman, it can be hard to be taken seriously in your art and harder still to have the courage to put yourselves out there to protect others who likely do not even believe in your abilities. Thank you for your sacrifices.”
She was sure that there had been many. And they deserved to know that they were not in vein.
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The conversation had taken a turn, though Dorothea hadn’t expected them to be overjoyed to speak with her in the first place. She was taking up their time on the eve of war. It was likely the last time they would have to relax for weeks or even several months if things went poorly. And here she was, some noble girl asking them fanciful questions about their units and what war was like. Dorothea knew it was foolish and a part of her regretted even asking. However, the other part of her could not let this curiosity rest. Even if she was to learn something firsthand, it would more than what she currently knew.
Lieutenant Phaedra’s words, while probably meant to be unkind, were nothing unexpected. Dorothea didn’t have any clue what it was like to go to war. She only knew what she read and she had argued the point of such theories on many occasions. War did not seem productive to her. What was the point of all the loss of life? Only sadness was ever to be gained from it. Of course, that was not exactly something Dorothea wanted to bring up on the eve these two women were shipping off to battle. It was not a fair reminder.
Dorothea gave Zosime a smile, when she swooped in to save her commander from her words. Though to Dorothea, there was nothing Phaedra needed to be sorry for. She was simply speaking her truth. The noble was glad that Zosi seemed interested in continuing the conversation, even at least for a little bit. Dorothea didn’t want to overstay her welcome.
“I learned to shoot when I was very young. Not long after I was walking, truthfully. My family lives far from the cities. We rely on ourselves for food and protection. I am quite proficient in the hunt, where there can be pressure and danger at times.” It was sometimes dangerous to hunt. Their prey could seriously injure a hunter if they were caught unaware or it was enraged. Dorothea had been part of a few hunts that had taken a nasty turn, though she herself had come out unscathed. Ultimately, they had the advantage over the beast.
Dorothea was grateful that these two women didn’t know her reputation in Taengea. Many said she was blessed by the gods in archery. She liked to think that her own hard work served her well as a contributing factor in her success.
“I have not been to war,” she continued, “ And have no illusion about my chances for success. I have not trained in battle as your unit has, so I cannot say for certain how I would react. I’d like to think that my calm head and years of muscle memory would do me some credit, but…” Dorothea trailed off, shrugging. She truly didn’t know how she would react.
“What I mean to say is that I admire you both greatly. And your unit. As a woman, it can be hard to be taken seriously in your art and harder still to have the courage to put yourselves out there to protect others who likely do not even believe in your abilities. Thank you for your sacrifices.”
She was sure that there had been many. And they deserved to know that they were not in vein.
The conversation had taken a turn, though Dorothea hadn’t expected them to be overjoyed to speak with her in the first place. She was taking up their time on the eve of war. It was likely the last time they would have to relax for weeks or even several months if things went poorly. And here she was, some noble girl asking them fanciful questions about their units and what war was like. Dorothea knew it was foolish and a part of her regretted even asking. However, the other part of her could not let this curiosity rest. Even if she was to learn something firsthand, it would more than what she currently knew.
Lieutenant Phaedra’s words, while probably meant to be unkind, were nothing unexpected. Dorothea didn’t have any clue what it was like to go to war. She only knew what she read and she had argued the point of such theories on many occasions. War did not seem productive to her. What was the point of all the loss of life? Only sadness was ever to be gained from it. Of course, that was not exactly something Dorothea wanted to bring up on the eve these two women were shipping off to battle. It was not a fair reminder.
Dorothea gave Zosime a smile, when she swooped in to save her commander from her words. Though to Dorothea, there was nothing Phaedra needed to be sorry for. She was simply speaking her truth. The noble was glad that Zosi seemed interested in continuing the conversation, even at least for a little bit. Dorothea didn’t want to overstay her welcome.
“I learned to shoot when I was very young. Not long after I was walking, truthfully. My family lives far from the cities. We rely on ourselves for food and protection. I am quite proficient in the hunt, where there can be pressure and danger at times.” It was sometimes dangerous to hunt. Their prey could seriously injure a hunter if they were caught unaware or it was enraged. Dorothea had been part of a few hunts that had taken a nasty turn, though she herself had come out unscathed. Ultimately, they had the advantage over the beast.
Dorothea was grateful that these two women didn’t know her reputation in Taengea. Many said she was blessed by the gods in archery. She liked to think that her own hard work served her well as a contributing factor in her success.
“I have not been to war,” she continued, “ And have no illusion about my chances for success. I have not trained in battle as your unit has, so I cannot say for certain how I would react. I’d like to think that my calm head and years of muscle memory would do me some credit, but…” Dorothea trailed off, shrugging. She truly didn’t know how she would react.
“What I mean to say is that I admire you both greatly. And your unit. As a woman, it can be hard to be taken seriously in your art and harder still to have the courage to put yourselves out there to protect others who likely do not even believe in your abilities. Thank you for your sacrifices.”
She was sure that there had been many. And they deserved to know that they were not in vein.
