Ophelia almost felt guilty for having addressed the girl she caught the expression that flickered across her youthful face. Her azure eyes were wide with...what? Fright? Trepidation? Suspicion? NO, not that. This girl had probably never had a suspicious thought in her life. Slowly, though, Ophelia watched the butterfly emerge from its metaphorical chrysalis of bewilderment as a dazzling smile graced the lips of the maiden in the flower crown.

"Yes, I thought so," she replied, careful to keep her voice meld and gentle so that she not startle the girl. As Rene bent at the waist, Ophelia offered yet another curtsy. Her smile only grew at the young girl's invitation. "I would love to! Truly, I have been rather lonely seated all by myself. You have a lovely companion, but I had to leave my favoured handmaiden at home as she is not up to travelling at present. The two servants I brought have been most good to me, but they are not of as high a station as your dear handmaid, and so I fear they find conversing with me awkward," she explained, lowering herself delicately into an empty seat beside Rene.

She had not found the word 'us' an odd choice at all, for the woman seated beside her was clearly a handmaiden, and Ophelia was incredibly fond of her own. She might have brought Evanthe along, but the girl was needed far more in Taengea at present with her own family and Ophelia had many other servants that could attend her. She would give Evanthe a full report of all that had transpired here upon returning -- this she had promised.

Ophelia let out a light, lilting laugh at the girl's little speech. "I find you utterly delightful already!" she exclaimed, her emerald eyes shining brimming with affection. "Truthfully, I very rarely attend sporting events myself, but one of my brother's friends was competing so I thought it only right I come and support him. I know a fair but about archery, but little about any other sports. As to this rumour, well, if you are referring to my brother and the Lady Evangelina, I can confirm that Lady Evangelina is indeed uninterested. It certainly seems that way, anyway," Ophelia giggled along with her, lowering her voice to a conspiratorial whisper. "But you need not fear for our dear Nikos. Let us just say that he is rarely ever lonely, my sweet little dove. Sometimes, I wish he were!" she laughed again, the sound merry and mellifluous, as she flashed the girl a grin.

"Oh, you should absolutely come to Taengea!" Ophelia's eyes lit up at the thought. This girl was sweet and warm and innocent, everything a young girl should be. She would very much value having such a companion. Moreso, she would consider it a great honour if this girl would permit her to be her guide. So many young girls lost themselves to sin on the rocky path to womanhood due to the lack of a warm and steady hand to gently steer them in the right direction. "It is such a beautiful place! The capitol city is beautiful...and, of course, there is so much to shop for!"

At the girl's next words, a soft blush of modesty crept across Ophelia's delicate features. "Oh! I saw your portrait!" she explained. "Do forgive me, I should have explained at once. Your poor handmaiden probably had quite the fright when I addressed you by name, I am sorry about that. I have quite a good memory for faces, however, and I recalled yours most vividly. You have a lovely smile, my dear; it is quite unmistakable," having delivered this entirely sincere compliment, she turned to Rene's handmaiden with a smile of genuine warmth. "We have not been properly introduced, Miss. I am Ophelia of Condos, may I ask your name?"

Noting that the handmaiden had repositioned the sunshade so it now sheltered her from the rays that might dare darken her fair complexion, she offered the woman a sweet smile of gratitude before turning back to her young charge. Rene's voice was like a bell, silken and silvery, pleasant to thear. Ophelia drank in her every word as she spoke of her dearest handmaid, her own smile transforming into one of deepest fondness as the manner in which she spoke put her in mind of her dearest Evanthe.
"Melba, what a beautiful name," she replied, the words sliding like honey from her tongue. "You are fortunate indeed to have such a dear companion, and you need not fear any judgement from me, my little one. My own handmaiden Evanthe is quite like a sister to me, so I completely understand the close bond you must share."
Still, she could also understand the need for milder displays of affection in public, for not every girl was as fond of her handmaid as she was of her sweet Evanthe. Melba was wise to act with caution and discretion. As a handmaid, however, she did have more liberties than other servants. She was no ordinary servant; handmaids were above the rest, so it was surely only natural that their mistress would become fond of them, even if it was only slightly...or was that only what she liked to think?

As Rene began to speak, Ophelia leaned slightly closer to hear her. She was careful to keep her expression neutral so that no passers by would become curious about what they were talking about and attempt to overhear. This she did purely for Rene's sake, as she did not wish to cause the girl embarrassment or bring any scandal upon her family. If she could have, she would have hugged the girl right then and there. "I do wish my family were so kind to their attendants," she whispered back. "They do not see things the way you and your parents do, but I do. My own servants are treated as I see fit, and are thus given permission to visit their families in the city. They work on rotation and I check in with them every week to make sure they are getting adequate sleep and enough food," even that does not seem enough sometimes, she added in silence, her cheeks colouring as she decided it was safe to share this thought with the girl. "Sometimes I wish I could do more for them. I do not own any slaves personally, I refuse. Those who serve me personally are paid attendants..." continuing, she dropped her voice even lower, fearing to be overheard. "I am not in support of slavery at all. I believe that all workers should be paid, if not in money then at least in decent food and clothing for themselves and any family they might have, but I know this is a highly unpopular opinion, thus I must be careful where I voice it. You too should take care, little dove. Not all will agree with our views. We must choose our allies wisely, for should we ever confide in the wrong person, they could destroy us both."

It was a wise warning, one she hoped the girl would heed and comprehend: she was a trustworthy confidant; she would never divulge anything the Nickolaosi noble had said. She would repeat Rene's intimate words to no other, but there were those who would do exactly the opposite. While she agreed with the girl's views and had therefore only grown in determination to protect her, information like this falling into the wrong hands could be the ruination of the lovely young thing and her kindhearted father.

"Not everyone is as I am, little flower," she whispered.

Ophelia's eyes lit up at the invitation. As it happened, she did not have a place to stay in Athenia. Her plan had been to seek out a wealthy merchant and offer to pay them well for their hospitality, but it seemed now that a better option had presented itself. "As it happens, I do not have a place to stay while in Athenia," she confessed, her lips quirking into a hopeful smile. "And you are the first Athenian noble to welcome me to your great Kingdom. Everyone has been very busy with this grand event, I suppose. I have received such kindness and warmth from all of the lower-class citizens however, and from several guards. If you are certain that it would not be an imposition, I would be most delighted to stay with you. I only intend to remain a few days after this event, for I was hoping to take a tour of the city; I have not seen it in such a long time, but then I must return, for my duties call me back to Taengea. I am very involved with the less fortunate there and they shall miss me if I remain away for a prolonged period of time."

Ophelia's eyes lit up with excitement as Rene's eyes fell upon the archery range. "Do you see that man over there? The one in the flowing red chitton? His bow is very fine, is it not? One of the finest I have ever seen? His name is Mihail of Thanassi, 'tis him I come to champion today," she explained, beaming as she took him in. "He is a very fine archer, the finest I have ever met. I have always wanted to work up the courage to ask him if he might like to shoot a few rounds with me, but he is so skilled that I fear to do so. Though many praise my skill with the bow, I know that he is on an entirely different level! He practises every day and I have simply not the time! I can only practice once every three days if that."


Noticing the look of concern that fluttered across the face of the little doe, Ophelia instinctively reached out to her, placing a gentle hand upon her shoulder. "No, sweetling. You have nothing to apologize for!" she exclaimed, her eyes widening with earnest compassion. "You are curious, which is never a bad thing in my opinion. Curiosity leads to wisdom, and Athena is the patron Goddess of your kingdom is she not?" Ophelia smiled, hoping that this logic would lift the girl's spirits. "Your father is right in the fact that many rumours are false. Most are made up simply to harm others, but there is truth in that which concerns Nikos and Evangelina. There is no harm in seeking knowledge.If ever I were to learn a rumour was a mere slander, I would discard it immediately, but were I to learn it were fact, there would be no harm in its discussion for it is then a known fact and no longer a rumour. I am probably making no sense...what I mean to say is that rumours are not always black and white, my dear. It is quite alright to ask for information, quite alright to say something if you believe one hundred percent in your heart it is true, but I would never advise the intentional slander of another. Far too many people participate in that cruel practise for my taste."

Much to her relief, Rene's smile soon returned. The girl looked so very pretty when she smiled; so wholesome and innocent. "Most definitely," Ophelia agreed. "And should your family need reassurance of your safety, House Condos would be more than happy to host you, and any attendants they insist you bring, of course," she nodded then to Melba, knowing that the girl would most likely not wish to leave her behind. This was absolutely fine with Ophelia. "Perhaps I could then introduce you to my own dear handmaiden, Evanthe. I think you would like her very much."

When the portrait was mentioned, the poor girl looked flustered for a moment. Clearly, she had not sat for it. The artist had rendered her from memory then, making the whole thing even more impressive. The likeness really had been rather striking. "Indeed, a portrait of you," Ophelia confirmed, letting out a light, mirthful laugh. "And quite a wonderful likeness it was too. How perfectly the artist captured the sweetness of your smile and the innocence of your eyes. And I am glad that he thought to do so, for it has given us the opportunity to meet."

Ophelia grinned broadly at Rene's response, giving a slightly exaggerated bow of the head in mockery of how she -- and all nobles -- always greeted each other. "Why hello, my dear one!" she exclaimed, having more fun than perhaps she ought to mocking her own traditions. But when Rene asked if she would count her among her friends, her exaggerated smile morphed into a grin of genuine joy and she dipped her head once more in a nod of ascent. "I shall be honoured to count you among my friends, little flower."

The little smile that danced across the rosebud's lips was utterly charming. It clearly said 'I told you so,' and was so reminiscent of a smile that Ophelia might give to her brother that she could prevent the light laugh escaping her own lips. This girl reminded her so much of herself as she was just reaching womanhood that it was almost like peering back in time. "I am very fortunate indeed," she concurred. "And you are correct, I shall simply have to journey back to Athenia so that Evanthe might experience its many delights for herself. Not to do so would simply be unforgivable!"
For after all, she had a friend in Athenia now. Surely Evanthe would delight in that? And everything was so scenic here, so beautiful and the people so very intelligent.

Ophelia grinned broadly at the girl's effervescence, though her eyes darted nervously up and down the stands, searching anxiously for any familiar faces. She did agree most wholeheartedly with Rene's sentiments, but were anyone to overhear their conversation it could bring scandal upon both their families. This was not something she wanted for the young and innocent girl and most certainly not something she wanted for herself, for the wrath of her family would be great should she dare to dishonour them. It was her personal philosophy that generosity was a virtue and virtue brought honour, but most would say argue that nobles and servants were worlds apart and that sympathy for the lower classes should only go so far. She was revered by the lower classes for her charity work and many of the wealthier citizens respected her dedication to helping the less fortunate, but would they still feel the same way if they knew that she saw those people in rags not as nameless faces to be looked down upon, but as human beings with thoughts, feelings and burning desires to be nurtured and uplifted?

Ophelia leaned close to her young friend, no wishing to risk being overheard. "It is very uncommon for others to think as we do. That is why we must be careful," she explained. "Some will seek to turn our views to their advantage should they learn them; not all are as good-natured as we are. We must beware of those who are not."
She watched as the girl reached for her signity, grasping it with both hands. She was undeniably impressed at how well REne now managed the situation, straightening in her seat and affirming that she, too, would keep Ophelia's confidence. Despite her youth, the girl spoke with such authority and confidence that Ophelia was immediately reassured. A gentle smile graced the Lady's features, as she did not wish to frighten the girl. Yes, it was important that the grasped the gravity of the situation. Nobles could be vicious creatures, but she did not wish to tarnish Rene's trust in all others.
"I have no doubt that you shall keep my confidence, little dove," she said softly. "But fear not, though I have spoken true in telling you that some can be vicious, that is not the case for everyone. You will meet a great many people in your life. Some will be those of whom you must be wary, but some will become great allies and friends to you. Your sweet nature will serve you well; people will be drawn to you."


Ah, there was that smile, lighting her face like the sun lit the sky. She could tell that the girl was attempting not to lose grip of her poise lest it give way to untamed glee; this she found utterly endearing. Truthfully, she herself was very excited to spend more time with Rene. Despite the difference in age, she indeed felt as though she had found a kindred spirit. She had always wanted a little sister. Perhaps, through cultivating a friendship with this darling bud, she could gain a relationship that was almost as precious.
"Truly, the honour and privilege shall be mine," was her earnest reply. "Of course I shall come! And I would love to visit your capital city! I am sure it is absolutely beautiful. Everything I have seen here so far is beautiful!" she exclaimed in delight.

A soft blush crept across her porcelain cheeks as Rene enquired after her work with the less fortunate. Would the girl think she was doing enough to help them? Was she doing enough to help them?
"I do a lot of charity work. I work very closely with the less fortunate citizens of Taengea," she explained delicately. "Those of less wealth, those with disabilities, those who others may not consider favoured by the Gods. There are about ten families I prioritize, though I lend aid to many more when needed, and I also lend aid to organizations such as orphanages and hospitals. If a hospital is in need of more medical herbs, for instance, I can bring them from my family's lands. I sew blankets for newborn infants, clothes for those who may need to prioritize the purchase of food...I do all that I can to be of service to Taengea's people."
She spoke quietly and modestly. It was clear that she was not bragging; in fact her words were tentative, almost shy. She was not proud of her work, for she always wondered if more could be done, and each time one of the people she had taken up responsibility for succumbed to illness or failed to live a long and healthy life, she secretly blamed herself.
Upon hearing the girl's next words, Ophelia's eyes lit up with undisguised glee. Now, her interest was piqued. It was as though this girl had plucked a thought from her own head and spoken it aloud. Her eyes widened slightly and for a moment she could not find the words to speak.
"I-I concur completely," she eventually managed, taking a deep breath in order to compose herself. "Forgive me, Lady Rene, if I seem startled. It is only that I have often had the very same thought myself. The Gods have deemed us fit for luxury, but what they give, they can take away, and what they take from us, they could easily give to those who at this moment starve. We know not who will be born noble and who a peasant, but birth does not determine who a person is in their heart, and so I take the children to pray at the temples while their parents work to earn money for their daily bread, and I bring them all the provisions my family will allow; I teach them to read and write and instruct those girls who wish to learn in the feminine arts. I have even had the honour of delivering several children, one of them just last month."
She beamed at the girl once again as wisdom far beyond her years fell from her lips. "You are wise," she praised. "And correct. There are more of them than there are of us and they know how to do many things that we do not. They serve us with such patience, and never once do many think to thank them. 'Tis truly a shame."

As Rene studied Mihail, Ophelia studied Rene. The young woman could hardly keep a straight face as the girl held back her giggles, yet somehow she maintained her dignity. Rene's expression was as open as a book; she had clearly deduced that Mihail was arrogant, eccentric and utterly unique. There was no other like him on the planet. He radiated pride simply with his stance at present, but why should he not be proud? His performance had been exemplary. "He is truly the best archer I have ever seen," she stated honestly. "But from what I hear, he has earned that reputation fairly. I do no doubt he will win, all of his targets hit the centre."
She made no mention of the parchment, as Rene spoke not of it. She kept her eyes averted from it, fixing them instead on the girl's face. It would be unbecoming of her to seem as if she were prying into the personal affairs of one she had just met, even one who shared such dangerous views as she did.

"It is no trouble at all!" Ophelia beamed benevolently, her eyes lighting up with excitement. "Please, do not let me know if you ever visit Taengea and we can make the arrangements. My dear Evanthe will even make you a flower crown almost as beautiful as the one you wear now," she promised.
She listened in fascination as Rene rhapsodised about her love for the arts. This girl truly was a wonder. "I regret having not met you before, Lady Rene! We are simply too similar!" the noblewoman gushed. "I would dearly love to see some of your work sometime, if you are comfortable with showing it. I would show you mine in exchange?" the offer was almost tentative. Ophelia had been told that she excelled in the feminine arts, praised for her weaving, pottery, painting and other forms of art, but being the perfectionist she was, she was always able to find some fault -- minor or otherwise -- with her work. Somehow, this was not the case when she viewed the works of others. Instead she would find herself comparing theirs to hers, praising their excellent use of shadow and wishing she had better captured the difference in light and shade in her rendering of Persephone and Hades. She decided that she would make a second attempt at that one, for her own peace of mind. The uneven shadows near the gates of the underworld always irked her when she looked at them. Now her rendering of Athena, on the other hand, she was extremely proud of. It was one of the few things she had painted that actually made her smile. Athena, torch in hand, regal as ever as she stood at the open gates of Athenia, illuminated by a sunset sky. Dear and wise Athena.

The young Lady of House Nickolaos spoke, she kept her azure eyes pinned firmly to the arcus. Her words were uttered quietly, lest they be overheard by the wrong person. Ophelia smiled slightly -- already the girl was learning and learning well. She too kept her eyes fixed frontward, trained on the archery range and Mihail's competitors. In truth, though, her full attention was on Rene.

The girl's words struck a chord with the Lady of Condos, for she too was the youngest of her family, yet dreamed of bringing great honour to her house. From what she knew of House Nickolaos, however, Lady REne had more siblings than she did, again both a blessing and a curse. More siblings would provide a greater shield to hide behind should she make some minor slip. One of them could easily step in with a success to hide her failure.On the other hand, a success on Rene's part could easily be overshadowed by the triumph of another sibling, as was so often the case in larger families.

"You are most welcome, dearest Lady of Nickolaos," she replied gently. "If I may ask, how many siblings do you have? Your words intrigue me, you see, for I too am the youngest of my family, but I only have two elder siblings, one sister and one brother; Nikos and Marisa. Like you, I strive to bring my family honour, and sincerely hope I succeed. There are ways for a younger child to be noticed, even one of a large family, though I shall admit it is difficult. However..." she offered the young girl a knowing smile. "...if I can make even a small name for myself among the nobility of Taengea, then surely you can among the people of Athenia."

This was something entirely new to her. Never had she had a noble hang upon her every word when she spoke of her philanthropic endeavours. A warm glow spread through her as her fondness for the little dove intensified. That look of awed admiration shining so clearly in Rene's eyes only confirmed to Ophelia that she was the very epitome of goodness and purity, a sacred treasure that must be nurtured, cherished and protected at all costs. Rene's words caught by mild surprise, but she quickly regained her equilibrium, only to abandon it completely to joy. Why should she feign serenity when she had had at last found a kindred spirit among the nobility? One who was gentle, kind, and utterly unafraid to do what was right? A broad grin spread across the Condos' beauteous features as she dipped her head in a gentle nod of consent.
"Of course I will teach you!" she gushed. "My dear, you have no idea how happy it shall make me to do so!"
Again, she lowered her voice to that whisper that indicated she dare not be overheard, for the words she would speak next were dangerous. "Most nobles praise me for my work, but I never know how sincere they are. Some have told me that I should stop wasting my time with the poor and find something more useful to do, but I truly believe that this is the most useful thing I can do with my time. I feel so blessed to have finally found a person who thinks as I do, and I shall gladly assist you in any way I can to begin your philanthropic endeavours."
Oh wow...this gets better and better! She even wants to begin improving Athenia! This girl truly is magnificent! Ophelia's head began to spin with ideas as she imagined how wonderful it would be to bring Rene to Taengea, introducing her to all the unfortunate families whose lives would be lit up by her sunny smile. And then they would journey back to Athenia, where they would seek out the less fortunate there, take note of what they lacked and begin providing it.
"It would be my immense honour to host you in Taengea so that you might assist me in my endeavours, and then to return with you to Athenia, so that we might put such plans in place for the improvement of the lives of the less fortunate here," she replied with an effervescent smile.
The girl seemed a little concerned at her ignorance, but Ophelia was not. She placed a gentle hand on Rene's shoulder, shaking her head slightly. "If you are proficient enough at the wheel to weave tapestries, clothing and blankets should come easily to you!" she assured immediately. "I shall gladly teach you."
The girl's enthusiasm was so infectious. Ophelia might have leaped from her seat and danced for joy were she not surrounded by royalty and nobility from every realm and kingdom. The best she could do was bestow upon the girl her brightest, warmest smile and hope that Rene took it for what she was -- a confirmation of everlasting friendship.
"You are ever welcome in Taengea, and in my home. I pray that you will indeed make this visit so that we may see each other once again, and spread joy to those who need it most," her voice was quiet, but her eyes emerald danced with a joy that had not held in quite some time. "And yes, Evanthe will make you a beautiful flower crown, for you yourself are a beautiful flower."

Ophelia felt her cheeks heating with a modest blush. She could perhaps show the Lady her painting of Athena. Hailing from Athenia, she would certainly appreciate that. She had also received many compliments on the thin, delicate vase she had recently completed,painted with Aphrodite's symbols. There was a tapestry of a grief-stricken Demeter, led by Hecate, searching for her missing daughter on which she had received many an admirational remark. Yes, those would do nicely as showpieces. She noted how confident Rene was in her own work; the girl must have an expert hand.
"It shall please me to see anything that was created by you, though I am particularly fond of paintings. They are so detailed and the colours are ever so beautiful," Ophelia responded gently. "And fear not, I shall not make a harsh critique. I feel instinctively that your art must be as beautiful as your smile."
It was then that the rose was offered her: a delicate thing of expert craftsmanship. A soft gasp escaped the lips of the young noble as she accepted the precious gift, handling the parchment as though it were as delicate as blown glass. Her eyes widened slightly as pure poetry flowed from the lips of the youth beside her, stunning her into a momentary silence.
"Has anyone ever told you that your wisdom reaches far beyond your years, my dear Lady?" she questioned curiously. "I shall keep this, and I shall treasure it always, as a symbol of the friendship we have formed today. I hope that, just as this rose shall endure, our friendship shall too."

The other nobles were all absorbed in their own conversations, or with the goings on in the arcus. Good, that was all just as well. Ophelia did not wish to be spied upon, nor did she wish the words of her young companion to be overheard and dissected for the twisted pleasure of the masses. As Melba refilled her goblet, she graciously thanked the handmaiden, making no concealment of her gratitude. She had treated the servant with kindness and compassion since the moment she had first presented herself to the woman's youthful mistress and had every intention of continuing to do so.

Listening attentively as Rene spoke of her siblings, she made a point of memorizing their names. "I do hope I may have the pleasure of making their acquaintance sometime," she replied, a soft smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Marisa is the eldest of us all, and then there is Nikos, Baron of Doralis."
Roses bloomed in the hollows of her alabaster cheeks as the little lamb sang her praises. Truly, Ophelia was overcome with warmth and fondness for this darling girl. She had only the sweetest things to say; Ophelia doubted her capable of a harsh utterance.
"You are so very kind," she murmured meekly. "But you do yourself a great injustice, My Lady. Your word is worth a great deal, especially to me. My siblings are considered valuable treasures, so to hear myself praised so highly is an enormous honour for me, especially by one as sweet and sincere as you."

Ophelia's eyes briefly darted to the arcus, but there was not much there to capture her attention. They strayed immediately back to the Lady of Nickolaos, who was gazing at her with an expression of intent. The vow she made warmed the Taengean noble to the core, prompting her to reach out and twine the girl's delicate hand with hers. "You are a true and loyal friend, my dear, and I shall treasure you always," Ophelia swore fervently. "And should you ever have need of me, in a small or large way, be it now or later, I swear that I shall come to your aid. You have only to ask any favour, and if it is within my power I will gladly grant it. Remember this, my dearest one; I do not forget my friends and I am always there for them in times of need."

She briefly wondered if ever Rene would have a need to call on her. She hoped that the girl would not find herself in any sort of distress, but Ophelia would come at once if she did. Perhaps one day, Rene would wish her to be present at the birth of her child, or seek her advice on the best way to reciprocate a man's affections. Perhaps they would become regular correspondents. Yes, she believed she would enjoy receiving letters from this vivacious flower, if indeed the Lady was the letter-writing type.

Rene's question needed no answering, but Ophelia dipped her head in a nod of acknowledgement nevertheless. When the girl's expression faltered and fell into one of solemnity, however, Ophelia's own smile wavered. She wondered what had caused the sun to set in her eyes. She had not long to wait for the answer. Letting out a quiet gasp, she quickly shook her head.
"No, my dear, no! I would never be involved in anything that could bring my family dishonour, nor would I lead you down such a path," she gave her hurried assurance, softly squeezing the girl's tiny hand. "There are no laws against what I do, nor any social penalties. Some nobles are just a little bit closed-minded when it comes to the poor, that is all. They do not see them as they do and thus do not see what gain there is in assisting them. I assure you that you will be perfectly safe, though I would advise you never to wander into an area you are unfamiliar with alone, lest you get lost. It is always best to bring somebody with you anyway, as they can help you carry your supplies. One cannot carry all the supplies alone, after all."

Placing the finished roses beside her, Rene sought to make at least a dozen of them, fingers nimbly manipulating the sheets of delicate paper into long stem roses, with petals lightly splayed as if in early bloom. “Oh I am certain you will. My siblings, at least, most of them, are involved in the court. Especially my sister Dione. She is the primary and has been groomed for such responsibilities. Their victories are mine as well to celebrate as they represent the good of the House,” the young lady explained, raising one rose eye level to examine it more closely. Folding down an errant bit of paper that stood against the stem, Rene flattened the piece back down and held it for a few seconds to let the adhesive quality of the dried egg whites stick. “Given the alliance between the kingdoms, I have no doubt you will cross paths. Nor is there any question you are likewise a valuable treasure to your house. What other kind of person would travel internationally to support the friend of a sibling in a tournament? Or befriend a stranger?” Satisfied when the stem appeared smoothed, Rene’s smile brightened more so, if such a thing were possible. “I shall not forget. I promise that if I must call in a favor, it will signify a serious need. I wish not to pester her Ladyship unnecessarily,” she added.

Feeling Ophelia give her hand a reassuring squeeze, Rene’s fingers instinctively closed as well in reciprocity. The involuntary action in response to the gesture was not discarded by the Tangean, commendable especially considering the viscous coating to the tactile pads of Rene's digits, having been working with the coated parchment. “It is a particular soul indeed who volunteers to shoulder the burdens of others, at the risk to their own safety. I shall observe all of your counsel with my own undertakings.” Locating a cloth kerchief she had used earlier to clean her fingers, she offered it to the noble should she wish to remove any adhesive that had transferred. Inadvertently collecting art media was the risk one took of contacting Rene’s hands.

For a minute or so, Rene looked out towards the assorted events, some athletes engrossed in contest, some limbering up off towards the side, others taken to mingling. “Other than your archer, do you know who any of the others are?” she asked, willing to glean any other pointers from the more knowledgeable patron, lest she find herself in a social situation that warranted competent contribution.

Rene completed the self-imposed task of molding sheets of paper into roses, taking a moment to admire the bouquet before cleaning her hands and squaring her attentions back on her beautiful Tangean companion. Not even her own parents had instilled in her so much enthusiasm or inspiration, so much confidence and encouragement. Now whether those inclinations could withstand the proverbial firing squads of the court was another matter entirely. Endlessly hypothesizing who was genuine and who was not, who was friend and who was a wolf in sheep’s clothing, was an insight that seemed necessary to parley such terrain, and admittedly, not a language Rene was well versed in. Such plaudit gave the young teen a feeling of exceeding warmth and acceptance. Not born of familial obligation, Ophelia’s benevolence was voluntary, and it filled a niche that had long been drained as the years rolled by, creating larger and larger chasms between Rene and her once-close siblings.

Leaning close once more, the lovely petite girl with locks of blonde that gleamed in the sun where they descended beyond the protection of the sunshade whispered with a sheepish grin. “I confess that I do not much care for the court. Everyone seems to present artificially. I much prefer seeing people as they are naturally, in a state where they do not put on airs. People are their most beautiful to me when they think no one is watching, when they acquiesce, even for a fraction of a moment, to simply being human, the scratch of an ear, the rub of an eye, the tired drop of shoulders, all of the little mannerisms that are somehow stifled to make way for the appearance of perfection,” she explained. Perhaps such a sentiment was born that Rene herself felt to be in her purest form when seated in front of her easel, or at the pottery wheel. “Creation is an act of sheer will, and art, whether physical or performing, is nothing if not creation, fueled by the heart of the creator. And the heart can oft see what the eye cannot.”

As Ophelia patiently schooled young Rene on the contenders present, the teen’s crystal blue eyes drifted from individual to individual, absorbing the names and faces and committing such to memory, at least as best she could given the distance. “Well, we do have a dozen roses,” she suggested in earnest. “If you think anyone would like one? I brought them to hand out.” A small gesture, but a meaningful one. She cut a sideways glance to Melba, as her indirect suggestion of drifting around the arcus, to gauge the handmaid’s response. As she could have predicted, the notion was met with disapproval. “If we are together we would be safe, no?” Rene reasoned to Melba, whose lips pursed, her facial expression being the only response she felt was warranted.