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Rafail hadn't understood what had gone wrong with Persephone. Twice. Well, he had understood the problem but he didn't understand how it was a problem. He didn't understand how she could possibly appear so uninterested in him when he had, well, everything he had to give. Rejection was not a feeling he enjoyed and not something he experienced very often which, as a result, meant that it wasn't something he handled well. He had to be careful at home, not let his father see him as angry as he could get, as the man deemed it weakness on his behalf and weakness was not something the family ever wished to show. Any upset was kept hidden away, shared only with Sofia, who was a verifiable expert at keeping these things from their father, especially so since Rafail had always returned the favour in his own way and protected his sister more dearly than any other. Talks with her were usually a calming experience and nothing more but, on this occasion, they had done more than simply refresh his mind and given him an idea that, for whatever foolish reason, he had not previously considered.
It seemed foolproof. After all, Persephone did have a younger sister who was not only of marrying age but, as far as Rafail knew, entirely available. She may not have been heir to the throne but it would have been a relationship as advantageous as that of his brother, and he imagined it was likely to be approved by Father. Higher class women were quite often trained to be wearier of 'men like him' and it had been the cause of a fair few problems for Rafail in the past, although he usually managed to get past them. Girls tended to be easily swayed in his direction. Princess Emilia, however, was younger than most of his romantic interests so Rafail had come to the conclusion that she would be far more naïve than most and, therefore, easier to seduce and easier to control. Nothing could go wrong.
With the full confidence that was so typical of him, and armed with just what he knew few women could resist, a single deep pink rose to present proudly to the girl, he had made his way to the Royal Paláti, hoping to obtain an audience of sorts with the younger princess. It was lucky then that he was so often seen as a guest and visitor to the palace before, especially so during his previous attempts at courting Persephone, and it was even luckier that he bore the name and titles that he did - or perhaps even simply that he had the close relations that he did - else gaining entrance to the impressive building would have been far more complicated than he found it to be. As it was, he was permitted inside without any struggle, requesting that someone find him the girl in question or, at the very least, inform her that she had a visitor.
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Rafail hadn't understood what had gone wrong with Persephone. Twice. Well, he had understood the problem but he didn't understand how it was a problem. He didn't understand how she could possibly appear so uninterested in him when he had, well, everything he had to give. Rejection was not a feeling he enjoyed and not something he experienced very often which, as a result, meant that it wasn't something he handled well. He had to be careful at home, not let his father see him as angry as he could get, as the man deemed it weakness on his behalf and weakness was not something the family ever wished to show. Any upset was kept hidden away, shared only with Sofia, who was a verifiable expert at keeping these things from their father, especially so since Rafail had always returned the favour in his own way and protected his sister more dearly than any other. Talks with her were usually a calming experience and nothing more but, on this occasion, they had done more than simply refresh his mind and given him an idea that, for whatever foolish reason, he had not previously considered.
It seemed foolproof. After all, Persephone did have a younger sister who was not only of marrying age but, as far as Rafail knew, entirely available. She may not have been heir to the throne but it would have been a relationship as advantageous as that of his brother, and he imagined it was likely to be approved by Father. Higher class women were quite often trained to be wearier of 'men like him' and it had been the cause of a fair few problems for Rafail in the past, although he usually managed to get past them. Girls tended to be easily swayed in his direction. Princess Emilia, however, was younger than most of his romantic interests so Rafail had come to the conclusion that she would be far more naïve than most and, therefore, easier to seduce and easier to control. Nothing could go wrong.
With the full confidence that was so typical of him, and armed with just what he knew few women could resist, a single deep pink rose to present proudly to the girl, he had made his way to the Royal Paláti, hoping to obtain an audience of sorts with the younger princess. It was lucky then that he was so often seen as a guest and visitor to the palace before, especially so during his previous attempts at courting Persephone, and it was even luckier that he bore the name and titles that he did - or perhaps even simply that he had the close relations that he did - else gaining entrance to the impressive building would have been far more complicated than he found it to be. As it was, he was permitted inside without any struggle, requesting that someone find him the girl in question or, at the very least, inform her that she had a visitor.
Rafail hadn't understood what had gone wrong with Persephone. Twice. Well, he had understood the problem but he didn't understand how it was a problem. He didn't understand how she could possibly appear so uninterested in him when he had, well, everything he had to give. Rejection was not a feeling he enjoyed and not something he experienced very often which, as a result, meant that it wasn't something he handled well. He had to be careful at home, not let his father see him as angry as he could get, as the man deemed it weakness on his behalf and weakness was not something the family ever wished to show. Any upset was kept hidden away, shared only with Sofia, who was a verifiable expert at keeping these things from their father, especially so since Rafail had always returned the favour in his own way and protected his sister more dearly than any other. Talks with her were usually a calming experience and nothing more but, on this occasion, they had done more than simply refresh his mind and given him an idea that, for whatever foolish reason, he had not previously considered.
It seemed foolproof. After all, Persephone did have a younger sister who was not only of marrying age but, as far as Rafail knew, entirely available. She may not have been heir to the throne but it would have been a relationship as advantageous as that of his brother, and he imagined it was likely to be approved by Father. Higher class women were quite often trained to be wearier of 'men like him' and it had been the cause of a fair few problems for Rafail in the past, although he usually managed to get past them. Girls tended to be easily swayed in his direction. Princess Emilia, however, was younger than most of his romantic interests so Rafail had come to the conclusion that she would be far more naïve than most and, therefore, easier to seduce and easier to control. Nothing could go wrong.
With the full confidence that was so typical of him, and armed with just what he knew few women could resist, a single deep pink rose to present proudly to the girl, he had made his way to the Royal Paláti, hoping to obtain an audience of sorts with the younger princess. It was lucky then that he was so often seen as a guest and visitor to the palace before, especially so during his previous attempts at courting Persephone, and it was even luckier that he bore the name and titles that he did - or perhaps even simply that he had the close relations that he did - else gaining entrance to the impressive building would have been far more complicated than he found it to be. As it was, he was permitted inside without any struggle, requesting that someone find him the girl in question or, at the very least, inform her that she had a visitor.
Curled up in her room with a book that Emilia had extracted from the library of the palace, her feet were tucked under her, her seafoam green silk chiton falling to cover her feet where she was seated on her bed. The day was a lazy one, where Emilia, for once, had no seamstress meetings, no merchants or vendors coming to visit her, and nothing else major planned for the day, after she had returned from her regular visit to the Naos of the Gods from that morning.
Having given Nicholai the rest of the day off as she had no plans, Emilia had even asked for her nooning meal to be sent to her room, intending to recluse herself since Persephone was busy with the Senate. Only with plans to join her father and sister for dinner later when they returned, it was to the girl's surprise when Helen drifted to her room, apologizing for interupting before she announced the arrival of a visitor in the foyer of the Palati.
A visitor? Emilia's brain echoed, her brows furrowing. Having not been expecting anyone, the annoucement caught her off guard, and she blinked for a bit. Sliding her feet off the bed, Helen was quick to get to Emilia's side, helping her mistress to smoothen out any creases that her chiton may have picked up as she had laid on her bed. The handmaiden was quick to lace the golden weaved belt around her waist, brushing out her brunette curls, before placing her ivy-leaf crown over them.
Who was this Lord Rafail? Emilia couldn't help b ut wonder, as she descended the marble steps towards the foyer. She had the faint suspicion that she's heard the name before in court, but for someone who rarely stepped foot there unless it was for a function and party, it shouldn't be a surprise that Emilia found it difficult to place face to name. As she entered the foyer, her eyes held curiosity as she sought out the visitor, and the usual smile of her princess-training spread when her eyes fell on the male whose back was now towards her.
"Lord Rafail." she murmured, a way to announce her arrival. "To what do I owe the pleasure of your visitation today? I apologize, as Princess Persephone is busy in the senate, and as such is not around to visit. Perhaps you would like to return at a different time for her?"
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Curled up in her room with a book that Emilia had extracted from the library of the palace, her feet were tucked under her, her seafoam green silk chiton falling to cover her feet where she was seated on her bed. The day was a lazy one, where Emilia, for once, had no seamstress meetings, no merchants or vendors coming to visit her, and nothing else major planned for the day, after she had returned from her regular visit to the Naos of the Gods from that morning.
Having given Nicholai the rest of the day off as she had no plans, Emilia had even asked for her nooning meal to be sent to her room, intending to recluse herself since Persephone was busy with the Senate. Only with plans to join her father and sister for dinner later when they returned, it was to the girl's surprise when Helen drifted to her room, apologizing for interupting before she announced the arrival of a visitor in the foyer of the Palati.
A visitor? Emilia's brain echoed, her brows furrowing. Having not been expecting anyone, the annoucement caught her off guard, and she blinked for a bit. Sliding her feet off the bed, Helen was quick to get to Emilia's side, helping her mistress to smoothen out any creases that her chiton may have picked up as she had laid on her bed. The handmaiden was quick to lace the golden weaved belt around her waist, brushing out her brunette curls, before placing her ivy-leaf crown over them.
Who was this Lord Rafail? Emilia couldn't help b ut wonder, as she descended the marble steps towards the foyer. She had the faint suspicion that she's heard the name before in court, but for someone who rarely stepped foot there unless it was for a function and party, it shouldn't be a surprise that Emilia found it difficult to place face to name. As she entered the foyer, her eyes held curiosity as she sought out the visitor, and the usual smile of her princess-training spread when her eyes fell on the male whose back was now towards her.
"Lord Rafail." she murmured, a way to announce her arrival. "To what do I owe the pleasure of your visitation today? I apologize, as Princess Persephone is busy in the senate, and as such is not around to visit. Perhaps you would like to return at a different time for her?"
Curled up in her room with a book that Emilia had extracted from the library of the palace, her feet were tucked under her, her seafoam green silk chiton falling to cover her feet where she was seated on her bed. The day was a lazy one, where Emilia, for once, had no seamstress meetings, no merchants or vendors coming to visit her, and nothing else major planned for the day, after she had returned from her regular visit to the Naos of the Gods from that morning.
Having given Nicholai the rest of the day off as she had no plans, Emilia had even asked for her nooning meal to be sent to her room, intending to recluse herself since Persephone was busy with the Senate. Only with plans to join her father and sister for dinner later when they returned, it was to the girl's surprise when Helen drifted to her room, apologizing for interupting before she announced the arrival of a visitor in the foyer of the Palati.
A visitor? Emilia's brain echoed, her brows furrowing. Having not been expecting anyone, the annoucement caught her off guard, and she blinked for a bit. Sliding her feet off the bed, Helen was quick to get to Emilia's side, helping her mistress to smoothen out any creases that her chiton may have picked up as she had laid on her bed. The handmaiden was quick to lace the golden weaved belt around her waist, brushing out her brunette curls, before placing her ivy-leaf crown over them.
Who was this Lord Rafail? Emilia couldn't help b ut wonder, as she descended the marble steps towards the foyer. She had the faint suspicion that she's heard the name before in court, but for someone who rarely stepped foot there unless it was for a function and party, it shouldn't be a surprise that Emilia found it difficult to place face to name. As she entered the foyer, her eyes held curiosity as she sought out the visitor, and the usual smile of her princess-training spread when her eyes fell on the male whose back was now towards her.
"Lord Rafail." she murmured, a way to announce her arrival. "To what do I owe the pleasure of your visitation today? I apologize, as Princess Persephone is busy in the senate, and as such is not around to visit. Perhaps you would like to return at a different time for her?"
It seemed Rafail had made a wise decision with this one.
For starters, it didn't appear from her tone that his name was recognised from any past scandals (although women could often be a wily sort and attempt to play him for a fool, only acting as though they'd never heard of him or the reputation he worked so hard to upkeep) which, for once, he saw as a benefit to his current position. Secondly, upon turning to look at her and very hurriedly running his gaze over her so as not to make it drastically obvious what he was doing, one of the skills he had perfected over the years, it was very quickly obvious to him that she was almost as beautiful as the first target of his affections. The only thing that had yet to be made clear to him was whether or not she would prove as innocent as he was both expecting and hoping, although Rafail felt he was detecting a certain level of insecurity in the way that she believed he must have been there for her older sister, and that was something he could easily exploit.
He bowed his head in polite greeting to the Princess, offering her the brightest and most charming smile in his repertoire. "Ah, no, my Princess, I'm afraid I am not here for your sister this afternoon, it was your acquaintance that I wished to make. Lord Rafail of Marikas." Rafail held out the bright pink flower he had brought with him, still keeping the polite smile on his face. In his extensive experience, the majority of pretty women could very easily be one over with a mixture of flowers and smiles, and he intended to put those methods into practice here. "I thought I might bring your Highness a token of my affections from my own gardens. We have such gorgeous blossoms every year, it seems a waste to simply leave them be." It was almost an identical ploy to the one Rafail had used with her sister some seven years earlier, and he was hoping Emilia would prove just as susceptible as he needed.
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It seemed Rafail had made a wise decision with this one.
For starters, it didn't appear from her tone that his name was recognised from any past scandals (although women could often be a wily sort and attempt to play him for a fool, only acting as though they'd never heard of him or the reputation he worked so hard to upkeep) which, for once, he saw as a benefit to his current position. Secondly, upon turning to look at her and very hurriedly running his gaze over her so as not to make it drastically obvious what he was doing, one of the skills he had perfected over the years, it was very quickly obvious to him that she was almost as beautiful as the first target of his affections. The only thing that had yet to be made clear to him was whether or not she would prove as innocent as he was both expecting and hoping, although Rafail felt he was detecting a certain level of insecurity in the way that she believed he must have been there for her older sister, and that was something he could easily exploit.
He bowed his head in polite greeting to the Princess, offering her the brightest and most charming smile in his repertoire. "Ah, no, my Princess, I'm afraid I am not here for your sister this afternoon, it was your acquaintance that I wished to make. Lord Rafail of Marikas." Rafail held out the bright pink flower he had brought with him, still keeping the polite smile on his face. In his extensive experience, the majority of pretty women could very easily be one over with a mixture of flowers and smiles, and he intended to put those methods into practice here. "I thought I might bring your Highness a token of my affections from my own gardens. We have such gorgeous blossoms every year, it seems a waste to simply leave them be." It was almost an identical ploy to the one Rafail had used with her sister some seven years earlier, and he was hoping Emilia would prove just as susceptible as he needed.
It seemed Rafail had made a wise decision with this one.
For starters, it didn't appear from her tone that his name was recognised from any past scandals (although women could often be a wily sort and attempt to play him for a fool, only acting as though they'd never heard of him or the reputation he worked so hard to upkeep) which, for once, he saw as a benefit to his current position. Secondly, upon turning to look at her and very hurriedly running his gaze over her so as not to make it drastically obvious what he was doing, one of the skills he had perfected over the years, it was very quickly obvious to him that she was almost as beautiful as the first target of his affections. The only thing that had yet to be made clear to him was whether or not she would prove as innocent as he was both expecting and hoping, although Rafail felt he was detecting a certain level of insecurity in the way that she believed he must have been there for her older sister, and that was something he could easily exploit.
He bowed his head in polite greeting to the Princess, offering her the brightest and most charming smile in his repertoire. "Ah, no, my Princess, I'm afraid I am not here for your sister this afternoon, it was your acquaintance that I wished to make. Lord Rafail of Marikas." Rafail held out the bright pink flower he had brought with him, still keeping the polite smile on his face. In his extensive experience, the majority of pretty women could very easily be one over with a mixture of flowers and smiles, and he intended to put those methods into practice here. "I thought I might bring your Highness a token of my affections from my own gardens. We have such gorgeous blossoms every year, it seems a waste to simply leave them be." It was almost an identical ploy to the one Rafail had used with her sister some seven years earlier, and he was hoping Emilia would prove just as susceptible as he needed.
She had frowned as he bowed his head, his features fine and beautiful, much like her own. A beauty in her own right, even if it did not rival that of her sisters, or others blessed by the gods as the masses say, Emilia had her fair share of people asking for her audience, and as such was fairly used to it. Gliding across the marbled floor to approach the young lord, her hazel eyes missed the way he scrutinized her from top to bottom, but when presented with the flower, her brows raised.
Stopping just before him, Emilia waved a hand at her guards, a silent signal for them to remain standing outside the doors as she conversed, before turning back to Rafail. Plucking the flower out of his fingers, the princess delicately brought the bloom to her nose, appreciating the fresh and lingering scent, before she smiled daintily at the male.
"I am surprised. I have heard you used to visit on my sister. May I query as to what had happened?" she asked, in honest curiosity. She was not privy to all of Persephone's visitors, and as such did not question. Curiousity burned her irises that flickered down to the flower again.
"I thank you for the beautiful bloom, it will go well in my dark rooms." her genuine thanks colored her words, her fingers gingerly holding its stems. It wasn't as if Emilia had no flowers - in contrary, the Palati's gardens were carefully curated, and was in fact in bloom as well, and she had fresh flowers arranged for her viewing every other day by her lady's maid. Yet a gift was a different sort, even if Emilia was not the type to fancy blooms. She preferred silks and jewelry herself.
"You need not tax yourself on the travels, albeit, my lord. Servants would do just as well." she finished, her smile flickering back to his, but a wily light had entered. Many though Emilia susceptible, silly for love, and an addled-headed princess, simply because Emilia was concerned on clothings and chitons, sandals and jewelry, quite unlike the elder sister they compared her to, bright and capable. But Emilia, while she preferred the more whimsical side of life - was her sister's sister, afterall, and she was astute enough to see when someone wanted more. "Unless you have a different reason for asking for my audience?" That didn't mean she didn't give a chance to hear others out, however.
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She had frowned as he bowed his head, his features fine and beautiful, much like her own. A beauty in her own right, even if it did not rival that of her sisters, or others blessed by the gods as the masses say, Emilia had her fair share of people asking for her audience, and as such was fairly used to it. Gliding across the marbled floor to approach the young lord, her hazel eyes missed the way he scrutinized her from top to bottom, but when presented with the flower, her brows raised.
Stopping just before him, Emilia waved a hand at her guards, a silent signal for them to remain standing outside the doors as she conversed, before turning back to Rafail. Plucking the flower out of his fingers, the princess delicately brought the bloom to her nose, appreciating the fresh and lingering scent, before she smiled daintily at the male.
"I am surprised. I have heard you used to visit on my sister. May I query as to what had happened?" she asked, in honest curiosity. She was not privy to all of Persephone's visitors, and as such did not question. Curiousity burned her irises that flickered down to the flower again.
"I thank you for the beautiful bloom, it will go well in my dark rooms." her genuine thanks colored her words, her fingers gingerly holding its stems. It wasn't as if Emilia had no flowers - in contrary, the Palati's gardens were carefully curated, and was in fact in bloom as well, and she had fresh flowers arranged for her viewing every other day by her lady's maid. Yet a gift was a different sort, even if Emilia was not the type to fancy blooms. She preferred silks and jewelry herself.
"You need not tax yourself on the travels, albeit, my lord. Servants would do just as well." she finished, her smile flickering back to his, but a wily light had entered. Many though Emilia susceptible, silly for love, and an addled-headed princess, simply because Emilia was concerned on clothings and chitons, sandals and jewelry, quite unlike the elder sister they compared her to, bright and capable. But Emilia, while she preferred the more whimsical side of life - was her sister's sister, afterall, and she was astute enough to see when someone wanted more. "Unless you have a different reason for asking for my audience?" That didn't mean she didn't give a chance to hear others out, however.
She had frowned as he bowed his head, his features fine and beautiful, much like her own. A beauty in her own right, even if it did not rival that of her sisters, or others blessed by the gods as the masses say, Emilia had her fair share of people asking for her audience, and as such was fairly used to it. Gliding across the marbled floor to approach the young lord, her hazel eyes missed the way he scrutinized her from top to bottom, but when presented with the flower, her brows raised.
Stopping just before him, Emilia waved a hand at her guards, a silent signal for them to remain standing outside the doors as she conversed, before turning back to Rafail. Plucking the flower out of his fingers, the princess delicately brought the bloom to her nose, appreciating the fresh and lingering scent, before she smiled daintily at the male.
"I am surprised. I have heard you used to visit on my sister. May I query as to what had happened?" she asked, in honest curiosity. She was not privy to all of Persephone's visitors, and as such did not question. Curiousity burned her irises that flickered down to the flower again.
"I thank you for the beautiful bloom, it will go well in my dark rooms." her genuine thanks colored her words, her fingers gingerly holding its stems. It wasn't as if Emilia had no flowers - in contrary, the Palati's gardens were carefully curated, and was in fact in bloom as well, and she had fresh flowers arranged for her viewing every other day by her lady's maid. Yet a gift was a different sort, even if Emilia was not the type to fancy blooms. She preferred silks and jewelry herself.
"You need not tax yourself on the travels, albeit, my lord. Servants would do just as well." she finished, her smile flickering back to his, but a wily light had entered. Many though Emilia susceptible, silly for love, and an addled-headed princess, simply because Emilia was concerned on clothings and chitons, sandals and jewelry, quite unlike the elder sister they compared her to, bright and capable. But Emilia, while she preferred the more whimsical side of life - was her sister's sister, afterall, and she was astute enough to see when someone wanted more. "Unless you have a different reason for asking for my audience?" That didn't mean she didn't give a chance to hear others out, however.
Perhaps Rafail's reputation had indeed preceded him.
"I did use to visit your sister on occasion, yes," he confirmed, feeling as though giving her some honesty would be the best policy in this situation. You always had to start them off like you trusted them, instil a sense of confidence in them that made them feel like they were worth something to you. Of course, that didn't mean full honesty was a necessity, just enough to sprinkle amongst the lies so that it appeared you were making an effort. "Father had some intentions that we should court some years ago but I suppose it simply wasn't meant to be. No matter. I had my sights set elsewhere at the time and the union would have been unfair to her." Or rather, it would have been completely unfair to Rafail. Imagine all that work to have someone within your grasp and then not being able to sleep with them for fear of producing a bastard! "I am glad I looked back, however, else I would never have noticed what a beauty her sister had grown to become. I feel as though perhaps Father made the wrong choice for me all those years ago."
Rafail smiled as she took the flower he had offered her, glad to hear it was appreciated. That sounded to him as though he was starting to win her over, which meant that, the next time he chose to visit with similar intentions, he could bring her a slightly more extravagant gift. And, yes, of course, he was assuming that he was going to have a second visit. He wouldn't be the same without his confidence that nothing could ever go wrong in his flirtations. "I am pleased you like it so much. Perhaps someday you could visit our gardens. I've been told they're some of the finest in Athenia." Granted, that was mostly by girls that he was already impressing and had already fallen for him but the idea still stood. The Marikas gardens were beautiful and always had been.
"Please, I hardly live far. It's no struggle to me." They were essentially neighbours to the palace, something which made visits like this especially simple. It looked like Emilia was seeing through his little tricks, however, because she questioned his ulterior motives a moment later. Rafail placed a hand on his hip, chuckling at the question. "I simply wanted to meet our other beautiful princess. I was hoping that perhaps this would not be our only audience...?"
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Perhaps Rafail's reputation had indeed preceded him.
"I did use to visit your sister on occasion, yes," he confirmed, feeling as though giving her some honesty would be the best policy in this situation. You always had to start them off like you trusted them, instil a sense of confidence in them that made them feel like they were worth something to you. Of course, that didn't mean full honesty was a necessity, just enough to sprinkle amongst the lies so that it appeared you were making an effort. "Father had some intentions that we should court some years ago but I suppose it simply wasn't meant to be. No matter. I had my sights set elsewhere at the time and the union would have been unfair to her." Or rather, it would have been completely unfair to Rafail. Imagine all that work to have someone within your grasp and then not being able to sleep with them for fear of producing a bastard! "I am glad I looked back, however, else I would never have noticed what a beauty her sister had grown to become. I feel as though perhaps Father made the wrong choice for me all those years ago."
Rafail smiled as she took the flower he had offered her, glad to hear it was appreciated. That sounded to him as though he was starting to win her over, which meant that, the next time he chose to visit with similar intentions, he could bring her a slightly more extravagant gift. And, yes, of course, he was assuming that he was going to have a second visit. He wouldn't be the same without his confidence that nothing could ever go wrong in his flirtations. "I am pleased you like it so much. Perhaps someday you could visit our gardens. I've been told they're some of the finest in Athenia." Granted, that was mostly by girls that he was already impressing and had already fallen for him but the idea still stood. The Marikas gardens were beautiful and always had been.
"Please, I hardly live far. It's no struggle to me." They were essentially neighbours to the palace, something which made visits like this especially simple. It looked like Emilia was seeing through his little tricks, however, because she questioned his ulterior motives a moment later. Rafail placed a hand on his hip, chuckling at the question. "I simply wanted to meet our other beautiful princess. I was hoping that perhaps this would not be our only audience...?"
Perhaps Rafail's reputation had indeed preceded him.
"I did use to visit your sister on occasion, yes," he confirmed, feeling as though giving her some honesty would be the best policy in this situation. You always had to start them off like you trusted them, instil a sense of confidence in them that made them feel like they were worth something to you. Of course, that didn't mean full honesty was a necessity, just enough to sprinkle amongst the lies so that it appeared you were making an effort. "Father had some intentions that we should court some years ago but I suppose it simply wasn't meant to be. No matter. I had my sights set elsewhere at the time and the union would have been unfair to her." Or rather, it would have been completely unfair to Rafail. Imagine all that work to have someone within your grasp and then not being able to sleep with them for fear of producing a bastard! "I am glad I looked back, however, else I would never have noticed what a beauty her sister had grown to become. I feel as though perhaps Father made the wrong choice for me all those years ago."
Rafail smiled as she took the flower he had offered her, glad to hear it was appreciated. That sounded to him as though he was starting to win her over, which meant that, the next time he chose to visit with similar intentions, he could bring her a slightly more extravagant gift. And, yes, of course, he was assuming that he was going to have a second visit. He wouldn't be the same without his confidence that nothing could ever go wrong in his flirtations. "I am pleased you like it so much. Perhaps someday you could visit our gardens. I've been told they're some of the finest in Athenia." Granted, that was mostly by girls that he was already impressing and had already fallen for him but the idea still stood. The Marikas gardens were beautiful and always had been.
"Please, I hardly live far. It's no struggle to me." They were essentially neighbours to the palace, something which made visits like this especially simple. It looked like Emilia was seeing through his little tricks, however, because she questioned his ulterior motives a moment later. Rafail placed a hand on his hip, chuckling at the question. "I simply wanted to meet our other beautiful princess. I was hoping that perhaps this would not be our only audience...?"
His confirmation surprised her. Emilia would've thought he would deny it, considering Persephone had many suitors. It wouldn't be surprising if he had thought one such as him would've slipped through his fingers. And so, the glimmer of surprise shined in her auburn eyes, some mild amusement added into the mix when he honestly told of his father's intentions. Unlike Persephone, while Emilia wished she had half of her elder sister's conviction, the young girl could not bring herself to enter or agree to a loveless agreed marriage.
So when he admitted that such a union would've been unfair to Persephone, that was quick to get Emilia's attention. This was a first she's heard, for a man to be considerate of a woman's wants. Others had merely seen what would benefit them, no matter how it ended for the female.
Intrigued by then, a small smile curled her lips upwards when he invited her to the gardens of the Marikas household. She gave a small, demure nod, holding the bloom up to her nose again for a sniff. A small laugh tittered at his denial of his residences distance - it was true. The Marikas were close to the Royal Palati, as were many of the residences for the nobles of Athenia. Living in the Inner Circle was of course, the biggest reason why, but still, not many nobles traversed great distance, and the walk to the palace was a fair amount.
A curious brow raised. While she was skeptical, she was not entirely in denial. Afterall, he had managed to pique her interest so far, this Rafail of Marikas. "Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. However..." she trailed off, as if considering her words, before Emilia flickered a coquettish gaze up at Rafail, one that entirely made her sixteen year old features look playful, almost cheeky. "If you manage to interest me, perhaps I may yet deign you with a visit to your gardens, Lord Rafail." Emilia was nothing if not playful, and her words did nothing to hide how she was offering the lord an entrance, however small and difficult it may be.
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His confirmation surprised her. Emilia would've thought he would deny it, considering Persephone had many suitors. It wouldn't be surprising if he had thought one such as him would've slipped through his fingers. And so, the glimmer of surprise shined in her auburn eyes, some mild amusement added into the mix when he honestly told of his father's intentions. Unlike Persephone, while Emilia wished she had half of her elder sister's conviction, the young girl could not bring herself to enter or agree to a loveless agreed marriage.
So when he admitted that such a union would've been unfair to Persephone, that was quick to get Emilia's attention. This was a first she's heard, for a man to be considerate of a woman's wants. Others had merely seen what would benefit them, no matter how it ended for the female.
Intrigued by then, a small smile curled her lips upwards when he invited her to the gardens of the Marikas household. She gave a small, demure nod, holding the bloom up to her nose again for a sniff. A small laugh tittered at his denial of his residences distance - it was true. The Marikas were close to the Royal Palati, as were many of the residences for the nobles of Athenia. Living in the Inner Circle was of course, the biggest reason why, but still, not many nobles traversed great distance, and the walk to the palace was a fair amount.
A curious brow raised. While she was skeptical, she was not entirely in denial. Afterall, he had managed to pique her interest so far, this Rafail of Marikas. "Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. However..." she trailed off, as if considering her words, before Emilia flickered a coquettish gaze up at Rafail, one that entirely made her sixteen year old features look playful, almost cheeky. "If you manage to interest me, perhaps I may yet deign you with a visit to your gardens, Lord Rafail." Emilia was nothing if not playful, and her words did nothing to hide how she was offering the lord an entrance, however small and difficult it may be.
His confirmation surprised her. Emilia would've thought he would deny it, considering Persephone had many suitors. It wouldn't be surprising if he had thought one such as him would've slipped through his fingers. And so, the glimmer of surprise shined in her auburn eyes, some mild amusement added into the mix when he honestly told of his father's intentions. Unlike Persephone, while Emilia wished she had half of her elder sister's conviction, the young girl could not bring herself to enter or agree to a loveless agreed marriage.
So when he admitted that such a union would've been unfair to Persephone, that was quick to get Emilia's attention. This was a first she's heard, for a man to be considerate of a woman's wants. Others had merely seen what would benefit them, no matter how it ended for the female.
Intrigued by then, a small smile curled her lips upwards when he invited her to the gardens of the Marikas household. She gave a small, demure nod, holding the bloom up to her nose again for a sniff. A small laugh tittered at his denial of his residences distance - it was true. The Marikas were close to the Royal Palati, as were many of the residences for the nobles of Athenia. Living in the Inner Circle was of course, the biggest reason why, but still, not many nobles traversed great distance, and the walk to the palace was a fair amount.
A curious brow raised. While she was skeptical, she was not entirely in denial. Afterall, he had managed to pique her interest so far, this Rafail of Marikas. "Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. However..." she trailed off, as if considering her words, before Emilia flickered a coquettish gaze up at Rafail, one that entirely made her sixteen year old features look playful, almost cheeky. "If you manage to interest me, perhaps I may yet deign you with a visit to your gardens, Lord Rafail." Emilia was nothing if not playful, and her words did nothing to hide how she was offering the lord an entrance, however small and difficult it may be.
The smile on Emilia's face was all Rafail needed as confirmation. She was, at the very least, impressed by his words, a good sign in his eyes. He copied her smile, grinning at the idea that he might be having yet another Xanthos daughter visiting his gardens, a sure place where women fell for the classic Marikas charm. He might not be ending up in bed with a princess that night - just a very pretty and very willing noblewoman from Mesnia - but he was seeing a very good chance of it occurring at some point in the near future. Mm, now, a princess, that was something he hadn't had before.
"If I manage to interest you?" he repeated, raising an eyebrow at her words. She was doing a beautiful job of letting him play the game, from her words to the way she was looking at him. "And how might you suggest I do that? I was thinking, perhaps, we could take some time to talk? I would absolutely adore the opportunity to know more about your Highness, and if there was anything you wished to know about myself...I am an open book." It was close to the truth, at least. Rafail did wish to know as much as he possibly could about Emilia, and it was easier if she could give him the information herself. The more he knew about her, the less complicated the seduction was. And, of course, it didn't hurt for her to feel safer around him by learning what she could of him. Royalty could never be too careful when it came to such matters.
Glancing ever so briefly behind Emilia, he took notice of a set of elaborate benches set along the wall, and gave a nod in their direction, running his fingers through his hair to push it back again as a few more strands than the usual threatened to fall to his face. "Would you care to take a seat, perhaps? I am sure it would be more comfortable than continuing to stand."
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The smile on Emilia's face was all Rafail needed as confirmation. She was, at the very least, impressed by his words, a good sign in his eyes. He copied her smile, grinning at the idea that he might be having yet another Xanthos daughter visiting his gardens, a sure place where women fell for the classic Marikas charm. He might not be ending up in bed with a princess that night - just a very pretty and very willing noblewoman from Mesnia - but he was seeing a very good chance of it occurring at some point in the near future. Mm, now, a princess, that was something he hadn't had before.
"If I manage to interest you?" he repeated, raising an eyebrow at her words. She was doing a beautiful job of letting him play the game, from her words to the way she was looking at him. "And how might you suggest I do that? I was thinking, perhaps, we could take some time to talk? I would absolutely adore the opportunity to know more about your Highness, and if there was anything you wished to know about myself...I am an open book." It was close to the truth, at least. Rafail did wish to know as much as he possibly could about Emilia, and it was easier if she could give him the information herself. The more he knew about her, the less complicated the seduction was. And, of course, it didn't hurt for her to feel safer around him by learning what she could of him. Royalty could never be too careful when it came to such matters.
Glancing ever so briefly behind Emilia, he took notice of a set of elaborate benches set along the wall, and gave a nod in their direction, running his fingers through his hair to push it back again as a few more strands than the usual threatened to fall to his face. "Would you care to take a seat, perhaps? I am sure it would be more comfortable than continuing to stand."
The smile on Emilia's face was all Rafail needed as confirmation. She was, at the very least, impressed by his words, a good sign in his eyes. He copied her smile, grinning at the idea that he might be having yet another Xanthos daughter visiting his gardens, a sure place where women fell for the classic Marikas charm. He might not be ending up in bed with a princess that night - just a very pretty and very willing noblewoman from Mesnia - but he was seeing a very good chance of it occurring at some point in the near future. Mm, now, a princess, that was something he hadn't had before.
"If I manage to interest you?" he repeated, raising an eyebrow at her words. She was doing a beautiful job of letting him play the game, from her words to the way she was looking at him. "And how might you suggest I do that? I was thinking, perhaps, we could take some time to talk? I would absolutely adore the opportunity to know more about your Highness, and if there was anything you wished to know about myself...I am an open book." It was close to the truth, at least. Rafail did wish to know as much as he possibly could about Emilia, and it was easier if she could give him the information herself. The more he knew about her, the less complicated the seduction was. And, of course, it didn't hurt for her to feel safer around him by learning what she could of him. Royalty could never be too careful when it came to such matters.
Glancing ever so briefly behind Emilia, he took notice of a set of elaborate benches set along the wall, and gave a nod in their direction, running his fingers through his hair to push it back again as a few more strands than the usual threatened to fall to his face. "Would you care to take a seat, perhaps? I am sure it would be more comfortable than continuing to stand."
His smile was charming, if it was anything to go by. But then again, Emilia has her pick of guys when it came to court, so why should one simple smile charm her? Quite well versed in steeling oneself against purple prose so often used by courtiers who were eager to gain the favor of the young Xanthos princess, Emilia merely smiled when he replied.
"Ah, but our topic of conversation has to interest me then, Lord Rafail. I talk to many in court. Why are you special enough for me to spare my extra time with you then?" she murmured, sly grin hidden under her large eyes and long lashes. Making a show of checking on the jewelry she had on her wrists, she shrugged at his other statement, as if nonchalant. "Tis quite easy for me to gain information about you... tongues wag in the court, as I'm sure you are familiar with. But... perhaps you can offer me information not privy to evryone else?"
Turning over her shoulder, Emilia followed his gaze, and nodded in assent, allowing him to escort her to the ornate benches, where she sat down, arranging her silken chiton around her feet again as she did so. Folding her hands on her lap, only then did the princess let her gaze flicker back to Rafail, the challenging smile ever present on her features. Emilia knew she was a catch - she was a princess, for goodness sake. Anyone who got close to changing her marital status would wield prestige and power, plus the protection of both her father and sister.
And it was because of that, that Emilia did not make the chase easy. She fell in love easily yes, but that didn't mean she was going to allow just anyone within her family, and to be close to her most loved ones. Besides, the things she's heard about the lord's reputation in court was... questionable, to say the least. And love played no part in that equation. "Perhaps you can first clarify the... ah, shall we say rumors? That we hear around court, Lord Rafail. That may go a long way in garnering my favor for you."
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His smile was charming, if it was anything to go by. But then again, Emilia has her pick of guys when it came to court, so why should one simple smile charm her? Quite well versed in steeling oneself against purple prose so often used by courtiers who were eager to gain the favor of the young Xanthos princess, Emilia merely smiled when he replied.
"Ah, but our topic of conversation has to interest me then, Lord Rafail. I talk to many in court. Why are you special enough for me to spare my extra time with you then?" she murmured, sly grin hidden under her large eyes and long lashes. Making a show of checking on the jewelry she had on her wrists, she shrugged at his other statement, as if nonchalant. "Tis quite easy for me to gain information about you... tongues wag in the court, as I'm sure you are familiar with. But... perhaps you can offer me information not privy to evryone else?"
Turning over her shoulder, Emilia followed his gaze, and nodded in assent, allowing him to escort her to the ornate benches, where she sat down, arranging her silken chiton around her feet again as she did so. Folding her hands on her lap, only then did the princess let her gaze flicker back to Rafail, the challenging smile ever present on her features. Emilia knew she was a catch - she was a princess, for goodness sake. Anyone who got close to changing her marital status would wield prestige and power, plus the protection of both her father and sister.
And it was because of that, that Emilia did not make the chase easy. She fell in love easily yes, but that didn't mean she was going to allow just anyone within her family, and to be close to her most loved ones. Besides, the things she's heard about the lord's reputation in court was... questionable, to say the least. And love played no part in that equation. "Perhaps you can first clarify the... ah, shall we say rumors? That we hear around court, Lord Rafail. That may go a long way in garnering my favor for you."
His smile was charming, if it was anything to go by. But then again, Emilia has her pick of guys when it came to court, so why should one simple smile charm her? Quite well versed in steeling oneself against purple prose so often used by courtiers who were eager to gain the favor of the young Xanthos princess, Emilia merely smiled when he replied.
"Ah, but our topic of conversation has to interest me then, Lord Rafail. I talk to many in court. Why are you special enough for me to spare my extra time with you then?" she murmured, sly grin hidden under her large eyes and long lashes. Making a show of checking on the jewelry she had on her wrists, she shrugged at his other statement, as if nonchalant. "Tis quite easy for me to gain information about you... tongues wag in the court, as I'm sure you are familiar with. But... perhaps you can offer me information not privy to evryone else?"
Turning over her shoulder, Emilia followed his gaze, and nodded in assent, allowing him to escort her to the ornate benches, where she sat down, arranging her silken chiton around her feet again as she did so. Folding her hands on her lap, only then did the princess let her gaze flicker back to Rafail, the challenging smile ever present on her features. Emilia knew she was a catch - she was a princess, for goodness sake. Anyone who got close to changing her marital status would wield prestige and power, plus the protection of both her father and sister.
And it was because of that, that Emilia did not make the chase easy. She fell in love easily yes, but that didn't mean she was going to allow just anyone within her family, and to be close to her most loved ones. Besides, the things she's heard about the lord's reputation in court was... questionable, to say the least. And love played no part in that equation. "Perhaps you can first clarify the... ah, shall we say rumors? That we hear around court, Lord Rafail. That may go a long way in garnering my favor for you."
Rafail was fully prepared to take offence at even the slightest indication that talking about himself was not an interesting topic - as that was what he had taken her words to mean at first - when more private details were requested about him. And then, what was there to say? As Emilia had already commented, gossip spread fast in the court, and there were few things that weren't open for all to see. Nonetheless, he could come up with something about himself that would likely interest her. There was always something or other that girls were interested in hearing. And the princess gave him even more opportunity still when they moved to take a seat on the bench, he allowing her to seat herself first so that she could see what a gentleman he really was. If she needed him to settle any rumours circulating about him, then he was very ready to clear his name.
"The rumours," he responded, confirming that he knew what she was talking about and that he too considered them to be nothing more than rumours spread to darken his name. Of course, Rafail wasn't exactly kept well-informed when it came to every rumour in the court, as those that pertained to himself were usually kept separate from him, but he was aware of his reputation, and information could be squeezed out of the more gullible women more often than not. The women in court, well, they had a tendency to be very gullible at the worst of times, and far too eager to gossip the rest of the time, which, quite often, made things a little more complex for him. But he could easily handle such comments, trained as he had been for so long in the politics of dealing with your enemies. "The rumours are just that, my Princess."
Feeling as though an explanation was required before Emilia was ready to believe him that what she had heard was nothing more than simple speculation and gossip, Rafail put on an expression that seemed to imply embarrassment that such things were being said about him. "It is true that, in my youth, I had quite the reputation around the court for how often I appeared to end up entangled in some romance or another but that is in the past." It wasn't so far in the past as he seemed to imply but any amount of time could really be considered past if you considered it, and that was what Rafail was banking on. That and the fact that this adapted version of a warning speech from his father about his plans for time ahead would sound as believable as he was sure he was making it sound. "I have matured recently. It is time for me to be putting my childish ambitions aside and looking to the future and, in the future, I shall have to be getting married. I can assure you that I am no longer as...immoral as some might say. I would never have thought to approach you like this if I was not thinking solely in your best interests."
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Rafail was fully prepared to take offence at even the slightest indication that talking about himself was not an interesting topic - as that was what he had taken her words to mean at first - when more private details were requested about him. And then, what was there to say? As Emilia had already commented, gossip spread fast in the court, and there were few things that weren't open for all to see. Nonetheless, he could come up with something about himself that would likely interest her. There was always something or other that girls were interested in hearing. And the princess gave him even more opportunity still when they moved to take a seat on the bench, he allowing her to seat herself first so that she could see what a gentleman he really was. If she needed him to settle any rumours circulating about him, then he was very ready to clear his name.
"The rumours," he responded, confirming that he knew what she was talking about and that he too considered them to be nothing more than rumours spread to darken his name. Of course, Rafail wasn't exactly kept well-informed when it came to every rumour in the court, as those that pertained to himself were usually kept separate from him, but he was aware of his reputation, and information could be squeezed out of the more gullible women more often than not. The women in court, well, they had a tendency to be very gullible at the worst of times, and far too eager to gossip the rest of the time, which, quite often, made things a little more complex for him. But he could easily handle such comments, trained as he had been for so long in the politics of dealing with your enemies. "The rumours are just that, my Princess."
Feeling as though an explanation was required before Emilia was ready to believe him that what she had heard was nothing more than simple speculation and gossip, Rafail put on an expression that seemed to imply embarrassment that such things were being said about him. "It is true that, in my youth, I had quite the reputation around the court for how often I appeared to end up entangled in some romance or another but that is in the past." It wasn't so far in the past as he seemed to imply but any amount of time could really be considered past if you considered it, and that was what Rafail was banking on. That and the fact that this adapted version of a warning speech from his father about his plans for time ahead would sound as believable as he was sure he was making it sound. "I have matured recently. It is time for me to be putting my childish ambitions aside and looking to the future and, in the future, I shall have to be getting married. I can assure you that I am no longer as...immoral as some might say. I would never have thought to approach you like this if I was not thinking solely in your best interests."
Rafail was fully prepared to take offence at even the slightest indication that talking about himself was not an interesting topic - as that was what he had taken her words to mean at first - when more private details were requested about him. And then, what was there to say? As Emilia had already commented, gossip spread fast in the court, and there were few things that weren't open for all to see. Nonetheless, he could come up with something about himself that would likely interest her. There was always something or other that girls were interested in hearing. And the princess gave him even more opportunity still when they moved to take a seat on the bench, he allowing her to seat herself first so that she could see what a gentleman he really was. If she needed him to settle any rumours circulating about him, then he was very ready to clear his name.
"The rumours," he responded, confirming that he knew what she was talking about and that he too considered them to be nothing more than rumours spread to darken his name. Of course, Rafail wasn't exactly kept well-informed when it came to every rumour in the court, as those that pertained to himself were usually kept separate from him, but he was aware of his reputation, and information could be squeezed out of the more gullible women more often than not. The women in court, well, they had a tendency to be very gullible at the worst of times, and far too eager to gossip the rest of the time, which, quite often, made things a little more complex for him. But he could easily handle such comments, trained as he had been for so long in the politics of dealing with your enemies. "The rumours are just that, my Princess."
Feeling as though an explanation was required before Emilia was ready to believe him that what she had heard was nothing more than simple speculation and gossip, Rafail put on an expression that seemed to imply embarrassment that such things were being said about him. "It is true that, in my youth, I had quite the reputation around the court for how often I appeared to end up entangled in some romance or another but that is in the past." It wasn't so far in the past as he seemed to imply but any amount of time could really be considered past if you considered it, and that was what Rafail was banking on. That and the fact that this adapted version of a warning speech from his father about his plans for time ahead would sound as believable as he was sure he was making it sound. "I have matured recently. It is time for me to be putting my childish ambitions aside and looking to the future and, in the future, I shall have to be getting married. I can assure you that I am no longer as...immoral as some might say. I would never have thought to approach you like this if I was not thinking solely in your best interests."
The slew of men she had coming after her was more then Emilia could count and she's more then well versed about their tactics. They either spoke of themselves and sang their own praises, or spoke of her and sang her praises. Both of which bored Emilia to death. She enjoyed it when people complimented her fashion, when the crushes she had reciprocated - but like it or not, she was Persephone's sister, and her intelligence was inherited. After prolonged talk of oneself, Emilia did get... bored.
As such, the princess was hoping that this one would prove interesting... even if he was starting off like all the others. Flowers? Hah, predictable.
Just that? Emilia raised a brow at how Rafail brushed off the rumors so off-handedly. She listened silently as he explained, all for allowing someone who has been slandered to redeem themselves. Afterall, as a princess, Emilia has had her fair share of rumors and bad talk tossed on her name. Most of the time, they were quickly dealt with either by her sister or father. So she knew firsthand, how some of them could be untrue. Crossing her ankles as he spoke, her gaze dropped to her fingers on her lap, and only flicked back to the young lord when he was done.
"Marriage?" she murmured in response, a small smile quirking the corner of her lip up as she peered at Rafail, some form of interest sparking in his eyes. So he looked to her for a political joining of families then? Internally, Emilia gave a small laugh. She was unlikely to settle for a political marriage, and has many a time reiterated that fact to her elder sister. Lucky for Emilia, her father doted on her, and would never see to put the younger one on the marriage block.
That meant, she had a choice.
"If that is actually the case, Lord Rafail, I'm afraid you'll have to... show me. Actions do speak louder then words, as I'm sure you know. Your actions have traversed the court, so I am afraid I'm unconvinced by mere words." It was obvious from her tone that, while Emilia was willing to allow Rafail a chance, she was also fairly skeptical, a given with how often she has suitors come after her. "Perhaps you could explain... what brought about the sudden change in heart, Lord Rafail?"
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The slew of men she had coming after her was more then Emilia could count and she's more then well versed about their tactics. They either spoke of themselves and sang their own praises, or spoke of her and sang her praises. Both of which bored Emilia to death. She enjoyed it when people complimented her fashion, when the crushes she had reciprocated - but like it or not, she was Persephone's sister, and her intelligence was inherited. After prolonged talk of oneself, Emilia did get... bored.
As such, the princess was hoping that this one would prove interesting... even if he was starting off like all the others. Flowers? Hah, predictable.
Just that? Emilia raised a brow at how Rafail brushed off the rumors so off-handedly. She listened silently as he explained, all for allowing someone who has been slandered to redeem themselves. Afterall, as a princess, Emilia has had her fair share of rumors and bad talk tossed on her name. Most of the time, they were quickly dealt with either by her sister or father. So she knew firsthand, how some of them could be untrue. Crossing her ankles as he spoke, her gaze dropped to her fingers on her lap, and only flicked back to the young lord when he was done.
"Marriage?" she murmured in response, a small smile quirking the corner of her lip up as she peered at Rafail, some form of interest sparking in his eyes. So he looked to her for a political joining of families then? Internally, Emilia gave a small laugh. She was unlikely to settle for a political marriage, and has many a time reiterated that fact to her elder sister. Lucky for Emilia, her father doted on her, and would never see to put the younger one on the marriage block.
That meant, she had a choice.
"If that is actually the case, Lord Rafail, I'm afraid you'll have to... show me. Actions do speak louder then words, as I'm sure you know. Your actions have traversed the court, so I am afraid I'm unconvinced by mere words." It was obvious from her tone that, while Emilia was willing to allow Rafail a chance, she was also fairly skeptical, a given with how often she has suitors come after her. "Perhaps you could explain... what brought about the sudden change in heart, Lord Rafail?"
The slew of men she had coming after her was more then Emilia could count and she's more then well versed about their tactics. They either spoke of themselves and sang their own praises, or spoke of her and sang her praises. Both of which bored Emilia to death. She enjoyed it when people complimented her fashion, when the crushes she had reciprocated - but like it or not, she was Persephone's sister, and her intelligence was inherited. After prolonged talk of oneself, Emilia did get... bored.
As such, the princess was hoping that this one would prove interesting... even if he was starting off like all the others. Flowers? Hah, predictable.
Just that? Emilia raised a brow at how Rafail brushed off the rumors so off-handedly. She listened silently as he explained, all for allowing someone who has been slandered to redeem themselves. Afterall, as a princess, Emilia has had her fair share of rumors and bad talk tossed on her name. Most of the time, they were quickly dealt with either by her sister or father. So she knew firsthand, how some of them could be untrue. Crossing her ankles as he spoke, her gaze dropped to her fingers on her lap, and only flicked back to the young lord when he was done.
"Marriage?" she murmured in response, a small smile quirking the corner of her lip up as she peered at Rafail, some form of interest sparking in his eyes. So he looked to her for a political joining of families then? Internally, Emilia gave a small laugh. She was unlikely to settle for a political marriage, and has many a time reiterated that fact to her elder sister. Lucky for Emilia, her father doted on her, and would never see to put the younger one on the marriage block.
That meant, she had a choice.
"If that is actually the case, Lord Rafail, I'm afraid you'll have to... show me. Actions do speak louder then words, as I'm sure you know. Your actions have traversed the court, so I am afraid I'm unconvinced by mere words." It was obvious from her tone that, while Emilia was willing to allow Rafail a chance, she was also fairly skeptical, a given with how often she has suitors come after her. "Perhaps you could explain... what brought about the sudden change in heart, Lord Rafail?"
Was she not interested in the concept of marriage? No, of course, she wasn't, she was too young for something like that. Even after they reached marrying age, most weren't considering marriage just yet: it was more a concern for their fathers. Rafail should have guessed when he had arrived that it was not something Emilia was remotely interested in just yet, and he did not plan to scare her away from the possibility of choosing him as a future husband by appearing too eager, although the smile that had begun to form on her lips was promising.
"I don't wish for you to misunderstand, my Princess," he hurriedly corrected himself, shaking his head slightly, trying to play the situation off as humorous. "I would never wish to ask for your hand if you were not interested in me. You should never have to be forced into anything, I would never allow it." Not that that was strictly true but Rafail was excellent at these sorts of white lies. That and, he had always somewhat believed that, although women were only significant for the production of heirs in the marriage, their happiness tended to make them a little more compliant. Happiness alongside gifts. Rafail would happily provide plentiful gifts in future.
It appeared that Emilia didn't fully believe Rafail and, honestly, he couldn't exactly blame her. His reputation was great enough that it would be difficult to clean his slate so easily. A few words were unlikely to do it. "Of course. I understand how important it must be to have full faith in me. You would not want an untrustworthy suitor." Just how he was supposed to prove it, however, now that was a whole other matter. "As I said, I have matured recently now that I must consider marriage. Your sister aided me in my new beliefs, to be perfectly honest, when I last spoke to her with intentions of courting. She led me to understand that a sense of responsibility is a necessity in any lasting relationship. I have worked to improve myself in such a way recently, and I can only hope you come to see that." Surely that should appease the girl?
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Was she not interested in the concept of marriage? No, of course, she wasn't, she was too young for something like that. Even after they reached marrying age, most weren't considering marriage just yet: it was more a concern for their fathers. Rafail should have guessed when he had arrived that it was not something Emilia was remotely interested in just yet, and he did not plan to scare her away from the possibility of choosing him as a future husband by appearing too eager, although the smile that had begun to form on her lips was promising.
"I don't wish for you to misunderstand, my Princess," he hurriedly corrected himself, shaking his head slightly, trying to play the situation off as humorous. "I would never wish to ask for your hand if you were not interested in me. You should never have to be forced into anything, I would never allow it." Not that that was strictly true but Rafail was excellent at these sorts of white lies. That and, he had always somewhat believed that, although women were only significant for the production of heirs in the marriage, their happiness tended to make them a little more compliant. Happiness alongside gifts. Rafail would happily provide plentiful gifts in future.
It appeared that Emilia didn't fully believe Rafail and, honestly, he couldn't exactly blame her. His reputation was great enough that it would be difficult to clean his slate so easily. A few words were unlikely to do it. "Of course. I understand how important it must be to have full faith in me. You would not want an untrustworthy suitor." Just how he was supposed to prove it, however, now that was a whole other matter. "As I said, I have matured recently now that I must consider marriage. Your sister aided me in my new beliefs, to be perfectly honest, when I last spoke to her with intentions of courting. She led me to understand that a sense of responsibility is a necessity in any lasting relationship. I have worked to improve myself in such a way recently, and I can only hope you come to see that." Surely that should appease the girl?
Was she not interested in the concept of marriage? No, of course, she wasn't, she was too young for something like that. Even after they reached marrying age, most weren't considering marriage just yet: it was more a concern for their fathers. Rafail should have guessed when he had arrived that it was not something Emilia was remotely interested in just yet, and he did not plan to scare her away from the possibility of choosing him as a future husband by appearing too eager, although the smile that had begun to form on her lips was promising.
"I don't wish for you to misunderstand, my Princess," he hurriedly corrected himself, shaking his head slightly, trying to play the situation off as humorous. "I would never wish to ask for your hand if you were not interested in me. You should never have to be forced into anything, I would never allow it." Not that that was strictly true but Rafail was excellent at these sorts of white lies. That and, he had always somewhat believed that, although women were only significant for the production of heirs in the marriage, their happiness tended to make them a little more compliant. Happiness alongside gifts. Rafail would happily provide plentiful gifts in future.
It appeared that Emilia didn't fully believe Rafail and, honestly, he couldn't exactly blame her. His reputation was great enough that it would be difficult to clean his slate so easily. A few words were unlikely to do it. "Of course. I understand how important it must be to have full faith in me. You would not want an untrustworthy suitor." Just how he was supposed to prove it, however, now that was a whole other matter. "As I said, I have matured recently now that I must consider marriage. Your sister aided me in my new beliefs, to be perfectly honest, when I last spoke to her with intentions of courting. She led me to understand that a sense of responsibility is a necessity in any lasting relationship. I have worked to improve myself in such a way recently, and I can only hope you come to see that." Surely that should appease the girl?
He was a walking contradiction as of yet. Since he had started the conversation with her, he had been continuously assuring her to not misunderstand his intentions, which simply made Emilia wonder why was theres so many instances of her having the chance of the misunderstanding in the first place. A quick note - Lord Rafail really did need to clean up whatever rumors and reputation he had, if he had a wish to marry well, as what he seemed to be doing now.
Choosing to believe him this time, Emilia gave a slow smile at how rigorous reinforcement that she should trust him, and that he would never allow such a devious thing to happen to her as a forced hand in marriage - not that Emilia would want that. She wouldn't ever agree, as she was now.
Nodding slowly and allowing him to continue to appease her suspicions, Emilia made a show of listening as he spoke. Maturity? Seems so, with the respectful way he was now conducting himself. Slowly, Emilia's eyes turned towards Rafail's, less wary and more warm now, that accompanied the happier, more welcoming smile now adorning her lips. "It appears you do look quite earnest, Lord Rafail." she murmured, picking up the silk sheets of her chiton, the princess stood up from her seat next to the young lord, and offered a hand in a more coy manner then she did before.
"If you'd like, my lord, you can escort me to the palace libraries. I was thinking to look for a book there, and your presence is... not unwanted."
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He was a walking contradiction as of yet. Since he had started the conversation with her, he had been continuously assuring her to not misunderstand his intentions, which simply made Emilia wonder why was theres so many instances of her having the chance of the misunderstanding in the first place. A quick note - Lord Rafail really did need to clean up whatever rumors and reputation he had, if he had a wish to marry well, as what he seemed to be doing now.
Choosing to believe him this time, Emilia gave a slow smile at how rigorous reinforcement that she should trust him, and that he would never allow such a devious thing to happen to her as a forced hand in marriage - not that Emilia would want that. She wouldn't ever agree, as she was now.
Nodding slowly and allowing him to continue to appease her suspicions, Emilia made a show of listening as he spoke. Maturity? Seems so, with the respectful way he was now conducting himself. Slowly, Emilia's eyes turned towards Rafail's, less wary and more warm now, that accompanied the happier, more welcoming smile now adorning her lips. "It appears you do look quite earnest, Lord Rafail." she murmured, picking up the silk sheets of her chiton, the princess stood up from her seat next to the young lord, and offered a hand in a more coy manner then she did before.
"If you'd like, my lord, you can escort me to the palace libraries. I was thinking to look for a book there, and your presence is... not unwanted."
He was a walking contradiction as of yet. Since he had started the conversation with her, he had been continuously assuring her to not misunderstand his intentions, which simply made Emilia wonder why was theres so many instances of her having the chance of the misunderstanding in the first place. A quick note - Lord Rafail really did need to clean up whatever rumors and reputation he had, if he had a wish to marry well, as what he seemed to be doing now.
Choosing to believe him this time, Emilia gave a slow smile at how rigorous reinforcement that she should trust him, and that he would never allow such a devious thing to happen to her as a forced hand in marriage - not that Emilia would want that. She wouldn't ever agree, as she was now.
Nodding slowly and allowing him to continue to appease her suspicions, Emilia made a show of listening as he spoke. Maturity? Seems so, with the respectful way he was now conducting himself. Slowly, Emilia's eyes turned towards Rafail's, less wary and more warm now, that accompanied the happier, more welcoming smile now adorning her lips. "It appears you do look quite earnest, Lord Rafail." she murmured, picking up the silk sheets of her chiton, the princess stood up from her seat next to the young lord, and offered a hand in a more coy manner then she did before.
"If you'd like, my lord, you can escort me to the palace libraries. I was thinking to look for a book there, and your presence is... not unwanted."
"Well, I wouldn't wish to lie to your Highness," Rafail responded with a shrug, despite the fact that every one of his words was nothing more than a lie. All he had to hope for was that no one would be able to inform Princess Emilia otherwise on that regard. He would have to be absolutely positive that none of the other girls he was courting were going to accidentally let any information slip, else every part of his plans would be ruined. As for the other princess, well, nothing could be done about her. Rafail would simply have to hope that she didn't tell her younger sister all too much. "I could never mislead a lady."
The way she offered him her hand now, it was different, it betrayed a certain flirtatiousness in her character, the manner in which she'd fallen to his words already. He was a stunning wordsmith. "I would be honoured to escort you to the library," he agreed, the polite smile back on his face as he held out an arm for the princess to rest hers on and starting to lead her in the direction of the palace libraries, a place he'd been only a few times before and that was for similarly amorous reasons.
Once they'd reached the libraries, he paused, turning to glance back down at the princess. Compared to him, the girl seemed tiny, and even without the smile put on for effect, he still found there to be a certain cuteness about her. "Unfortunately, my Princess, I have matters to attend to at home but I hope we can continue this meeting another time...?" Rafail left the question hanging a moment, giving her ample opportunity to answer. The circumstances were aligning themselves for one more thing, however, before he left, and he was convinced that the girl would not have any complaints as he ever so gently leaned in for the kiss.
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"Well, I wouldn't wish to lie to your Highness," Rafail responded with a shrug, despite the fact that every one of his words was nothing more than a lie. All he had to hope for was that no one would be able to inform Princess Emilia otherwise on that regard. He would have to be absolutely positive that none of the other girls he was courting were going to accidentally let any information slip, else every part of his plans would be ruined. As for the other princess, well, nothing could be done about her. Rafail would simply have to hope that she didn't tell her younger sister all too much. "I could never mislead a lady."
The way she offered him her hand now, it was different, it betrayed a certain flirtatiousness in her character, the manner in which she'd fallen to his words already. He was a stunning wordsmith. "I would be honoured to escort you to the library," he agreed, the polite smile back on his face as he held out an arm for the princess to rest hers on and starting to lead her in the direction of the palace libraries, a place he'd been only a few times before and that was for similarly amorous reasons.
Once they'd reached the libraries, he paused, turning to glance back down at the princess. Compared to him, the girl seemed tiny, and even without the smile put on for effect, he still found there to be a certain cuteness about her. "Unfortunately, my Princess, I have matters to attend to at home but I hope we can continue this meeting another time...?" Rafail left the question hanging a moment, giving her ample opportunity to answer. The circumstances were aligning themselves for one more thing, however, before he left, and he was convinced that the girl would not have any complaints as he ever so gently leaned in for the kiss.
"Well, I wouldn't wish to lie to your Highness," Rafail responded with a shrug, despite the fact that every one of his words was nothing more than a lie. All he had to hope for was that no one would be able to inform Princess Emilia otherwise on that regard. He would have to be absolutely positive that none of the other girls he was courting were going to accidentally let any information slip, else every part of his plans would be ruined. As for the other princess, well, nothing could be done about her. Rafail would simply have to hope that she didn't tell her younger sister all too much. "I could never mislead a lady."
The way she offered him her hand now, it was different, it betrayed a certain flirtatiousness in her character, the manner in which she'd fallen to his words already. He was a stunning wordsmith. "I would be honoured to escort you to the library," he agreed, the polite smile back on his face as he held out an arm for the princess to rest hers on and starting to lead her in the direction of the palace libraries, a place he'd been only a few times before and that was for similarly amorous reasons.
Once they'd reached the libraries, he paused, turning to glance back down at the princess. Compared to him, the girl seemed tiny, and even without the smile put on for effect, he still found there to be a certain cuteness about her. "Unfortunately, my Princess, I have matters to attend to at home but I hope we can continue this meeting another time...?" Rafail left the question hanging a moment, giving her ample opportunity to answer. The circumstances were aligning themselves for one more thing, however, before he left, and he was convinced that the girl would not have any complaints as he ever so gently leaned in for the kiss.
She was wont to believe him - but Emilia was wont to believe any guy who came her way, good looking or not. While Lord Rafail was not the best looking one who had crossed her path, his eager attitude and way with words had managed to catch her attention, at least enough for Emilia to be willing to give him some time of the day. Her smile was sweet as he agreed to escort her, and the girl threaded her arms through his arms, her steps treading softly on the marbled floors as they walked.
Her curls fell in wisps around her shoulders, the silence somewhat a curiosity to Emilia on their short trek to the library. She had not been lying - the princess had been eager to seek out a new piece that the royal scribe had casually mentioned to be available in the library, a musical piece that Emilia would use as she practiced her mandolin later in the day.
Having the company of a pleasant male only made the walk easier.
Upon their arrival, she paused as he did, her gaze turning questioning when Rafail looked at her, a frisson of delight running down her spine when their gazes met. Her smile turned slightly shy, and Emilia instinctively dropped her gaze, a flush staining her cheeks. His words made Emilia's eyes widen, a strain of obvious regret showing when she gazed at him again. "I... I suppose, Lord Rafail. Important matters cannot be helped, I guess." Emilia wasn't going to lie, her heart did sink with disappointment that he was going to leave.
What did caught her off guard however, was him leaning in. Her breathe caught as his lips pressed against hers - a chaste kiss for all intents and purposes, but Emilia was not one who freely gave her affections. Her heart skipped a beat, throat tightened for the briefest of seconds, and then her whole body relaxed as she closed her eyes and return the kiss with a gentle one of her own, hands still kept firmly in front of her but neck leaning forward as they pulled apart.
"Lord... Rafail." Emilia's tone held a breathless quality to it, the flush staining her cheeks again. Shyly, she bit her lip, and hid an embarassed smile. "Thank you for your company today. I'll be happy to have your audience"
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She was wont to believe him - but Emilia was wont to believe any guy who came her way, good looking or not. While Lord Rafail was not the best looking one who had crossed her path, his eager attitude and way with words had managed to catch her attention, at least enough for Emilia to be willing to give him some time of the day. Her smile was sweet as he agreed to escort her, and the girl threaded her arms through his arms, her steps treading softly on the marbled floors as they walked.
Her curls fell in wisps around her shoulders, the silence somewhat a curiosity to Emilia on their short trek to the library. She had not been lying - the princess had been eager to seek out a new piece that the royal scribe had casually mentioned to be available in the library, a musical piece that Emilia would use as she practiced her mandolin later in the day.
Having the company of a pleasant male only made the walk easier.
Upon their arrival, she paused as he did, her gaze turning questioning when Rafail looked at her, a frisson of delight running down her spine when their gazes met. Her smile turned slightly shy, and Emilia instinctively dropped her gaze, a flush staining her cheeks. His words made Emilia's eyes widen, a strain of obvious regret showing when she gazed at him again. "I... I suppose, Lord Rafail. Important matters cannot be helped, I guess." Emilia wasn't going to lie, her heart did sink with disappointment that he was going to leave.
What did caught her off guard however, was him leaning in. Her breathe caught as his lips pressed against hers - a chaste kiss for all intents and purposes, but Emilia was not one who freely gave her affections. Her heart skipped a beat, throat tightened for the briefest of seconds, and then her whole body relaxed as she closed her eyes and return the kiss with a gentle one of her own, hands still kept firmly in front of her but neck leaning forward as they pulled apart.
"Lord... Rafail." Emilia's tone held a breathless quality to it, the flush staining her cheeks again. Shyly, she bit her lip, and hid an embarassed smile. "Thank you for your company today. I'll be happy to have your audience"
She was wont to believe him - but Emilia was wont to believe any guy who came her way, good looking or not. While Lord Rafail was not the best looking one who had crossed her path, his eager attitude and way with words had managed to catch her attention, at least enough for Emilia to be willing to give him some time of the day. Her smile was sweet as he agreed to escort her, and the girl threaded her arms through his arms, her steps treading softly on the marbled floors as they walked.
Her curls fell in wisps around her shoulders, the silence somewhat a curiosity to Emilia on their short trek to the library. She had not been lying - the princess had been eager to seek out a new piece that the royal scribe had casually mentioned to be available in the library, a musical piece that Emilia would use as she practiced her mandolin later in the day.
Having the company of a pleasant male only made the walk easier.
Upon their arrival, she paused as he did, her gaze turning questioning when Rafail looked at her, a frisson of delight running down her spine when their gazes met. Her smile turned slightly shy, and Emilia instinctively dropped her gaze, a flush staining her cheeks. His words made Emilia's eyes widen, a strain of obvious regret showing when she gazed at him again. "I... I suppose, Lord Rafail. Important matters cannot be helped, I guess." Emilia wasn't going to lie, her heart did sink with disappointment that he was going to leave.
What did caught her off guard however, was him leaning in. Her breathe caught as his lips pressed against hers - a chaste kiss for all intents and purposes, but Emilia was not one who freely gave her affections. Her heart skipped a beat, throat tightened for the briefest of seconds, and then her whole body relaxed as she closed her eyes and return the kiss with a gentle one of her own, hands still kept firmly in front of her but neck leaning forward as they pulled apart.
"Lord... Rafail." Emilia's tone held a breathless quality to it, the flush staining her cheeks again. Shyly, she bit her lip, and hid an embarassed smile. "Thank you for your company today. I'll be happy to have your audience"
Gods, was it really this easy? Why had Rafail wasted so many months on the frigid being that was Persephone when there was another princess so much more capable of molding into what he wanted. The first object of his affections had been impossible, Emilia, on the other hand, here she was kissing him right back on their very first meeting. When the two of them finally pulled apart - he'd chosen just the right amount of time to hold the kiss that would keep it romantic without awkwardness and should keep her wanting more. You couldn't be as experienced as Rafail was in these matters without picking up a few tricks.
"I know, I apologise," he repeated, glancing away as though in pure regret that he wouldn't be able to spend more time with the girl. "I wish I could stay longer but, alas, my position of baron does not come without extensive responsibilities, and I would not want to disappoint those in Thesnia by not having given them my full attention." Girls seemed to like men who were so considerate of their duties and caring for the people who lived in their provinces. Rafail, for the most part, remained indifferent towards his barony outside from enjoying the power of simply having it: you really shouldn't be giving twelve-year-old boys so much authority. "Maybe someday you might care to visit. The town is lovely." And, urgh, so incredibly boring. You would have thought Father could have given him a better province. Nonetheless, it was the sort of place that girls tended to find charming, and he was going to milk that to its full extent.
And there it was. That was exactly what the man had come here to hear, now convinced that he had obtained the princess's heart for himself. Stepping back, admiring the blush on her face as she seemed to stumble over her words and her smile, Rafail beamed at her, his expression a mixture of fondness and amusement at her expression of gratitude. "No, no, my Princess, I should be the one thanking you for allowing me to spend this time with you. Perhaps I could have the pleasure of another meeting with your Highness in the next few days?"
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Gods, was it really this easy? Why had Rafail wasted so many months on the frigid being that was Persephone when there was another princess so much more capable of molding into what he wanted. The first object of his affections had been impossible, Emilia, on the other hand, here she was kissing him right back on their very first meeting. When the two of them finally pulled apart - he'd chosen just the right amount of time to hold the kiss that would keep it romantic without awkwardness and should keep her wanting more. You couldn't be as experienced as Rafail was in these matters without picking up a few tricks.
"I know, I apologise," he repeated, glancing away as though in pure regret that he wouldn't be able to spend more time with the girl. "I wish I could stay longer but, alas, my position of baron does not come without extensive responsibilities, and I would not want to disappoint those in Thesnia by not having given them my full attention." Girls seemed to like men who were so considerate of their duties and caring for the people who lived in their provinces. Rafail, for the most part, remained indifferent towards his barony outside from enjoying the power of simply having it: you really shouldn't be giving twelve-year-old boys so much authority. "Maybe someday you might care to visit. The town is lovely." And, urgh, so incredibly boring. You would have thought Father could have given him a better province. Nonetheless, it was the sort of place that girls tended to find charming, and he was going to milk that to its full extent.
And there it was. That was exactly what the man had come here to hear, now convinced that he had obtained the princess's heart for himself. Stepping back, admiring the blush on her face as she seemed to stumble over her words and her smile, Rafail beamed at her, his expression a mixture of fondness and amusement at her expression of gratitude. "No, no, my Princess, I should be the one thanking you for allowing me to spend this time with you. Perhaps I could have the pleasure of another meeting with your Highness in the next few days?"
Gods, was it really this easy? Why had Rafail wasted so many months on the frigid being that was Persephone when there was another princess so much more capable of molding into what he wanted. The first object of his affections had been impossible, Emilia, on the other hand, here she was kissing him right back on their very first meeting. When the two of them finally pulled apart - he'd chosen just the right amount of time to hold the kiss that would keep it romantic without awkwardness and should keep her wanting more. You couldn't be as experienced as Rafail was in these matters without picking up a few tricks.
"I know, I apologise," he repeated, glancing away as though in pure regret that he wouldn't be able to spend more time with the girl. "I wish I could stay longer but, alas, my position of baron does not come without extensive responsibilities, and I would not want to disappoint those in Thesnia by not having given them my full attention." Girls seemed to like men who were so considerate of their duties and caring for the people who lived in their provinces. Rafail, for the most part, remained indifferent towards his barony outside from enjoying the power of simply having it: you really shouldn't be giving twelve-year-old boys so much authority. "Maybe someday you might care to visit. The town is lovely." And, urgh, so incredibly boring. You would have thought Father could have given him a better province. Nonetheless, it was the sort of place that girls tended to find charming, and he was going to milk that to its full extent.
And there it was. That was exactly what the man had come here to hear, now convinced that he had obtained the princess's heart for himself. Stepping back, admiring the blush on her face as she seemed to stumble over her words and her smile, Rafail beamed at her, his expression a mixture of fondness and amusement at her expression of gratitude. "No, no, my Princess, I should be the one thanking you for allowing me to spend this time with you. Perhaps I could have the pleasure of another meeting with your Highness in the next few days?"