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When Emilia had first asked, it had been a very strong, extremely vehement denial from Elias and the Stravos's. Yet, it was a decision Emilia could see no sense behind. As the only surviving princess until the day whereby the status of her sister could be determined, Emilia was of the notion that she should be in attendance, if only to pay respects to the patron goddess of Athenia, and to show thanks for her father's escort to his aftrlife to Hades. It was only logical. That Elias had denied her exit from the palati was a matter Emilia questioned over and over again for the past three days until... well, she guessed she wore him down?
But the stand-in ruler of Athenia had been strict upon his allowance that Emilia could do. Along with her, he sent half a dozen guards handpicked by the lord, all of whom now closed around Emilia like a suffocating barrier, till she had to hold half the material of her seafoam green chiton over her arm as they descended the carriage and the princess was escorted to the courtyard of the temple. Having taken quite awhile with the arrangements and ride, by the time Emilia arrived, quite some time had went by, and Emilia was by all means and intents, late.
With the erratic weather, instead of allowing her hair to hang loose, Emilia had instead wound the curls up and tightened them into a chignon atop her head, a loose ringlet of ivy leaves surrounding them in silver and gold. A few tendrils framed her heartshaped face, but the usual bright smile the youngest Xanthos princess was usually known for was instead replaced by a hesitant look as she finally arrived at the courtyard, allowing the seafoam green silk material to fall around her ankles.
Danae was the very first person her eyes fell upon, and momentarily a small smile of ease settled on her previously hesitant features. Her cousin had been cordial to her, and while they were never the best of friends, a familiar face was better then nothing at all. Noticing her aunt was nearby as well, for a moment, Emilia couldn't help but wonder why Elias was so fussed over her safety if his own sister and mother was here. Surely security wouldn't be lax if so many of the royal and noble ladies were in attendance as well?
Curious now, she moved in closer to the knot of ladies sitting and sewing or weaving, Emilia greeted them all with a smile and a nod, before she picked up a question asked by a very familiar voice. Turning in the direction, Emilia smiled when she recognized Lady Vasia of Antonis. They had never been overtly close, with Vasia being more of age with her sister then she was with herself. Emilia ran more with ladies like Hebe and Danae, but still, it seemed rude to not greet the blonde lady when she had just been asking after her.
"I do apologize for being late, my ladies." she murmured, first to Vasia, and then letting her gaze fall on each lady in attendance as if she was addressing them all at the same time. "However, the palati has been in a bit of a mess trying to find our feet lately, so everything takes some time." She paused, as if trying to find the right words to say. What exactly did one say so soon after her father's death and a sister's untimely departure? Biting her bottom lip, Emilia pondered for just a moment longer before continuing, "Are we done with the fabric to outfit the goddess Athena then? Is there naught I could do to help?"
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When Emilia had first asked, it had been a very strong, extremely vehement denial from Elias and the Stravos's. Yet, it was a decision Emilia could see no sense behind. As the only surviving princess until the day whereby the status of her sister could be determined, Emilia was of the notion that she should be in attendance, if only to pay respects to the patron goddess of Athenia, and to show thanks for her father's escort to his aftrlife to Hades. It was only logical. That Elias had denied her exit from the palati was a matter Emilia questioned over and over again for the past three days until... well, she guessed she wore him down?
But the stand-in ruler of Athenia had been strict upon his allowance that Emilia could do. Along with her, he sent half a dozen guards handpicked by the lord, all of whom now closed around Emilia like a suffocating barrier, till she had to hold half the material of her seafoam green chiton over her arm as they descended the carriage and the princess was escorted to the courtyard of the temple. Having taken quite awhile with the arrangements and ride, by the time Emilia arrived, quite some time had went by, and Emilia was by all means and intents, late.
With the erratic weather, instead of allowing her hair to hang loose, Emilia had instead wound the curls up and tightened them into a chignon atop her head, a loose ringlet of ivy leaves surrounding them in silver and gold. A few tendrils framed her heartshaped face, but the usual bright smile the youngest Xanthos princess was usually known for was instead replaced by a hesitant look as she finally arrived at the courtyard, allowing the seafoam green silk material to fall around her ankles.
Danae was the very first person her eyes fell upon, and momentarily a small smile of ease settled on her previously hesitant features. Her cousin had been cordial to her, and while they were never the best of friends, a familiar face was better then nothing at all. Noticing her aunt was nearby as well, for a moment, Emilia couldn't help but wonder why Elias was so fussed over her safety if his own sister and mother was here. Surely security wouldn't be lax if so many of the royal and noble ladies were in attendance as well?
Curious now, she moved in closer to the knot of ladies sitting and sewing or weaving, Emilia greeted them all with a smile and a nod, before she picked up a question asked by a very familiar voice. Turning in the direction, Emilia smiled when she recognized Lady Vasia of Antonis. They had never been overtly close, with Vasia being more of age with her sister then she was with herself. Emilia ran more with ladies like Hebe and Danae, but still, it seemed rude to not greet the blonde lady when she had just been asking after her.
"I do apologize for being late, my ladies." she murmured, first to Vasia, and then letting her gaze fall on each lady in attendance as if she was addressing them all at the same time. "However, the palati has been in a bit of a mess trying to find our feet lately, so everything takes some time." She paused, as if trying to find the right words to say. What exactly did one say so soon after her father's death and a sister's untimely departure? Biting her bottom lip, Emilia pondered for just a moment longer before continuing, "Are we done with the fabric to outfit the goddess Athena then? Is there naught I could do to help?"
When Emilia had first asked, it had been a very strong, extremely vehement denial from Elias and the Stravos's. Yet, it was a decision Emilia could see no sense behind. As the only surviving princess until the day whereby the status of her sister could be determined, Emilia was of the notion that she should be in attendance, if only to pay respects to the patron goddess of Athenia, and to show thanks for her father's escort to his aftrlife to Hades. It was only logical. That Elias had denied her exit from the palati was a matter Emilia questioned over and over again for the past three days until... well, she guessed she wore him down?
But the stand-in ruler of Athenia had been strict upon his allowance that Emilia could do. Along with her, he sent half a dozen guards handpicked by the lord, all of whom now closed around Emilia like a suffocating barrier, till she had to hold half the material of her seafoam green chiton over her arm as they descended the carriage and the princess was escorted to the courtyard of the temple. Having taken quite awhile with the arrangements and ride, by the time Emilia arrived, quite some time had went by, and Emilia was by all means and intents, late.
With the erratic weather, instead of allowing her hair to hang loose, Emilia had instead wound the curls up and tightened them into a chignon atop her head, a loose ringlet of ivy leaves surrounding them in silver and gold. A few tendrils framed her heartshaped face, but the usual bright smile the youngest Xanthos princess was usually known for was instead replaced by a hesitant look as she finally arrived at the courtyard, allowing the seafoam green silk material to fall around her ankles.
Danae was the very first person her eyes fell upon, and momentarily a small smile of ease settled on her previously hesitant features. Her cousin had been cordial to her, and while they were never the best of friends, a familiar face was better then nothing at all. Noticing her aunt was nearby as well, for a moment, Emilia couldn't help but wonder why Elias was so fussed over her safety if his own sister and mother was here. Surely security wouldn't be lax if so many of the royal and noble ladies were in attendance as well?
Curious now, she moved in closer to the knot of ladies sitting and sewing or weaving, Emilia greeted them all with a smile and a nod, before she picked up a question asked by a very familiar voice. Turning in the direction, Emilia smiled when she recognized Lady Vasia of Antonis. They had never been overtly close, with Vasia being more of age with her sister then she was with herself. Emilia ran more with ladies like Hebe and Danae, but still, it seemed rude to not greet the blonde lady when she had just been asking after her.
"I do apologize for being late, my ladies." she murmured, first to Vasia, and then letting her gaze fall on each lady in attendance as if she was addressing them all at the same time. "However, the palati has been in a bit of a mess trying to find our feet lately, so everything takes some time." She paused, as if trying to find the right words to say. What exactly did one say so soon after her father's death and a sister's untimely departure? Biting her bottom lip, Emilia pondered for just a moment longer before continuing, "Are we done with the fabric to outfit the goddess Athena then? Is there naught I could do to help?"
Vasia blinked in surprise for only a moment as it seemed almost as if her words had summoned the young Princess, before decorum stirred her into action and she stood, dipping into a graceful curtsey before gesturing for the younger girl to join them, her smile warm.
“Your highness. It is wonderful to see you, please excuse my words, I had heard that you would not be in attendance today, but this is a most welcome surprise.”
It was more than a little awkward to be caught speaking about the Princess as if she were not there - because indeed Vasia had thought her not - but as her enquries had been nothing but well meant, the blonde woman smoothed it over deftly.
“I think the Goddess will have an array out outfits to choose from, Princess, but that is not to say she would not be gladdened of some offering from yourself. Please, there is an abundance of thread and fabrics and I’m sure your needlework will put mine to shame”. She waited for the Princess to take a seat before resettling herself and smoothing the fabric she had crinkled in her hand as she addressed the new arrival. Shooting a quick glance over at the Stravos contigent, Vasia began to sew once more, keeping her eyes down as she ventured a question towards the young girl.
It was true that the Antonis woman was closer to Persephone than to her younger sister, but with all that had befallen the royal family, Vasia could not help but feel some protective insticts toward the girl. It had worried her that Princess was shutting herself away, and yet here she was, seeming not too down spirited.
“Have you been well, your highness? My thoughts have found them with you often over the past days. I do hope you know that my family and me are at your disposal. If there is anything you need, or if you just wish to see something other than the palace walls, you need only send word. Though Persephone” there was the tiniest of hesitations “... may not be with us presently, she has friends you may count as your own.” And then the clear blue of the lady’s eyes lifted to settle on the Princess with another small smile, her gaze appraising, trying to take a measure of how the young woman was really faring in all of this.
It was no small thing, what had transpired, and Vasia could not help but consider Princess Emilia as a lamb left amongst the lions. It was not a position she would have wanted to find herself in, and she hoped the young lady would heed her words.
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Vasia blinked in surprise for only a moment as it seemed almost as if her words had summoned the young Princess, before decorum stirred her into action and she stood, dipping into a graceful curtsey before gesturing for the younger girl to join them, her smile warm.
“Your highness. It is wonderful to see you, please excuse my words, I had heard that you would not be in attendance today, but this is a most welcome surprise.”
It was more than a little awkward to be caught speaking about the Princess as if she were not there - because indeed Vasia had thought her not - but as her enquries had been nothing but well meant, the blonde woman smoothed it over deftly.
“I think the Goddess will have an array out outfits to choose from, Princess, but that is not to say she would not be gladdened of some offering from yourself. Please, there is an abundance of thread and fabrics and I’m sure your needlework will put mine to shame”. She waited for the Princess to take a seat before resettling herself and smoothing the fabric she had crinkled in her hand as she addressed the new arrival. Shooting a quick glance over at the Stravos contigent, Vasia began to sew once more, keeping her eyes down as she ventured a question towards the young girl.
It was true that the Antonis woman was closer to Persephone than to her younger sister, but with all that had befallen the royal family, Vasia could not help but feel some protective insticts toward the girl. It had worried her that Princess was shutting herself away, and yet here she was, seeming not too down spirited.
“Have you been well, your highness? My thoughts have found them with you often over the past days. I do hope you know that my family and me are at your disposal. If there is anything you need, or if you just wish to see something other than the palace walls, you need only send word. Though Persephone” there was the tiniest of hesitations “... may not be with us presently, she has friends you may count as your own.” And then the clear blue of the lady’s eyes lifted to settle on the Princess with another small smile, her gaze appraising, trying to take a measure of how the young woman was really faring in all of this.
It was no small thing, what had transpired, and Vasia could not help but consider Princess Emilia as a lamb left amongst the lions. It was not a position she would have wanted to find herself in, and she hoped the young lady would heed her words.
Vasia blinked in surprise for only a moment as it seemed almost as if her words had summoned the young Princess, before decorum stirred her into action and she stood, dipping into a graceful curtsey before gesturing for the younger girl to join them, her smile warm.
“Your highness. It is wonderful to see you, please excuse my words, I had heard that you would not be in attendance today, but this is a most welcome surprise.”
It was more than a little awkward to be caught speaking about the Princess as if she were not there - because indeed Vasia had thought her not - but as her enquries had been nothing but well meant, the blonde woman smoothed it over deftly.
“I think the Goddess will have an array out outfits to choose from, Princess, but that is not to say she would not be gladdened of some offering from yourself. Please, there is an abundance of thread and fabrics and I’m sure your needlework will put mine to shame”. She waited for the Princess to take a seat before resettling herself and smoothing the fabric she had crinkled in her hand as she addressed the new arrival. Shooting a quick glance over at the Stravos contigent, Vasia began to sew once more, keeping her eyes down as she ventured a question towards the young girl.
It was true that the Antonis woman was closer to Persephone than to her younger sister, but with all that had befallen the royal family, Vasia could not help but feel some protective insticts toward the girl. It had worried her that Princess was shutting herself away, and yet here she was, seeming not too down spirited.
“Have you been well, your highness? My thoughts have found them with you often over the past days. I do hope you know that my family and me are at your disposal. If there is anything you need, or if you just wish to see something other than the palace walls, you need only send word. Though Persephone” there was the tiniest of hesitations “... may not be with us presently, she has friends you may count as your own.” And then the clear blue of the lady’s eyes lifted to settle on the Princess with another small smile, her gaze appraising, trying to take a measure of how the young woman was really faring in all of this.
It was no small thing, what had transpired, and Vasia could not help but consider Princess Emilia as a lamb left amongst the lions. It was not a position she would have wanted to find herself in, and she hoped the young lady would heed her words.
Circenia’s smile was indulgent when the young Hebe of Antonis first came through, watching the child hand out refreshments to the servants with the most charming words and curtsies. She bit her lip on a laugh as she thought of Danae at that age—she could not imagine her willful child ever behaving in such a way, even under threat of death. Chara had been nearly as sweet and darling as Hebe, if a touch smarter, but Danae… Her youngest had a mind and temperament of her own, that much could never be denied.
Her smile quickly faded, however, when Hebe greeted her, the lack of formal address grating on the older woman’s nerves. ‘Great Aunt Circenia.’ Was that what she was now? Nothing more than the little rat’s great aunt? She may have been stripped of her nobility, but she was still royal, by all the gods, and she should still be shown the proper respect befitting her station.
“Princess Circenia,” she corrected the girl in an arch tone, the offended tilt of her chin betraying her irritation even more than her voice. Before she could dwell on it too much or reprimand her further, however, the girl was gone, headed off to flop herself down with Danae and the Nikolaos girl. A light sneer curled her lip before she let it drop, nearly forgotten in the wake of Vasia’s question and Emilia’s almost instantaneous arrival.
When the young princess’s entourage filed into the Naos, Circenia sat up a little straighter, attention keen on her niece. She had been the one to finally relent that Emilia should be allowed out of her isolation to attend this event, reassuring her son that she, Danae, and Chara would all be here to make sure she didn’t get out of line. It would seem he had listened to her, even if he’d protested heartily along the way. This was, after all, in honor of her father, and even if she didn’t hold much regard for Emilia, she did have some sympathy for her. Minas had been precious to them both, and to deny his daughter the right to be part of this… She was sure she’d pay for such a sin in the afterlife. Even she drew a line somewhere.
Circenia listened closely as Vasia addressed Emilia, keeping her own expression neutral. The lingering implication of the woman’s words, however understated, was not lost on her, though she was not so convinced it wouldn’t be lost on her niece. She was a pretty girl, but her sister had certainly inherited the lion’s share of their father’s intelligence.
“Lady Vasia, you act as if the young princess is all alone,” she chimed in, letting her needlework fall into her lap as she turned to face the lady of Antonis. “While it is quite distressing that we have yet to locate our absent Queen, my family and I have done our best to ensure her sister is well looked after. Her Highness is surrounded by friends night and day. Isn’t that right, darling?” She turned a smile in Emilia’s direction, a charming expression, but one that did not quite reach her eyes. There was a subtle hint of warning there, one that cautioned the girl not to say anything she might regret.
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Circenia’s smile was indulgent when the young Hebe of Antonis first came through, watching the child hand out refreshments to the servants with the most charming words and curtsies. She bit her lip on a laugh as she thought of Danae at that age—she could not imagine her willful child ever behaving in such a way, even under threat of death. Chara had been nearly as sweet and darling as Hebe, if a touch smarter, but Danae… Her youngest had a mind and temperament of her own, that much could never be denied.
Her smile quickly faded, however, when Hebe greeted her, the lack of formal address grating on the older woman’s nerves. ‘Great Aunt Circenia.’ Was that what she was now? Nothing more than the little rat’s great aunt? She may have been stripped of her nobility, but she was still royal, by all the gods, and she should still be shown the proper respect befitting her station.
“Princess Circenia,” she corrected the girl in an arch tone, the offended tilt of her chin betraying her irritation even more than her voice. Before she could dwell on it too much or reprimand her further, however, the girl was gone, headed off to flop herself down with Danae and the Nikolaos girl. A light sneer curled her lip before she let it drop, nearly forgotten in the wake of Vasia’s question and Emilia’s almost instantaneous arrival.
When the young princess’s entourage filed into the Naos, Circenia sat up a little straighter, attention keen on her niece. She had been the one to finally relent that Emilia should be allowed out of her isolation to attend this event, reassuring her son that she, Danae, and Chara would all be here to make sure she didn’t get out of line. It would seem he had listened to her, even if he’d protested heartily along the way. This was, after all, in honor of her father, and even if she didn’t hold much regard for Emilia, she did have some sympathy for her. Minas had been precious to them both, and to deny his daughter the right to be part of this… She was sure she’d pay for such a sin in the afterlife. Even she drew a line somewhere.
Circenia listened closely as Vasia addressed Emilia, keeping her own expression neutral. The lingering implication of the woman’s words, however understated, was not lost on her, though she was not so convinced it wouldn’t be lost on her niece. She was a pretty girl, but her sister had certainly inherited the lion’s share of their father’s intelligence.
“Lady Vasia, you act as if the young princess is all alone,” she chimed in, letting her needlework fall into her lap as she turned to face the lady of Antonis. “While it is quite distressing that we have yet to locate our absent Queen, my family and I have done our best to ensure her sister is well looked after. Her Highness is surrounded by friends night and day. Isn’t that right, darling?” She turned a smile in Emilia’s direction, a charming expression, but one that did not quite reach her eyes. There was a subtle hint of warning there, one that cautioned the girl not to say anything she might regret.
Circenia’s smile was indulgent when the young Hebe of Antonis first came through, watching the child hand out refreshments to the servants with the most charming words and curtsies. She bit her lip on a laugh as she thought of Danae at that age—she could not imagine her willful child ever behaving in such a way, even under threat of death. Chara had been nearly as sweet and darling as Hebe, if a touch smarter, but Danae… Her youngest had a mind and temperament of her own, that much could never be denied.
Her smile quickly faded, however, when Hebe greeted her, the lack of formal address grating on the older woman’s nerves. ‘Great Aunt Circenia.’ Was that what she was now? Nothing more than the little rat’s great aunt? She may have been stripped of her nobility, but she was still royal, by all the gods, and she should still be shown the proper respect befitting her station.
“Princess Circenia,” she corrected the girl in an arch tone, the offended tilt of her chin betraying her irritation even more than her voice. Before she could dwell on it too much or reprimand her further, however, the girl was gone, headed off to flop herself down with Danae and the Nikolaos girl. A light sneer curled her lip before she let it drop, nearly forgotten in the wake of Vasia’s question and Emilia’s almost instantaneous arrival.
When the young princess’s entourage filed into the Naos, Circenia sat up a little straighter, attention keen on her niece. She had been the one to finally relent that Emilia should be allowed out of her isolation to attend this event, reassuring her son that she, Danae, and Chara would all be here to make sure she didn’t get out of line. It would seem he had listened to her, even if he’d protested heartily along the way. This was, after all, in honor of her father, and even if she didn’t hold much regard for Emilia, she did have some sympathy for her. Minas had been precious to them both, and to deny his daughter the right to be part of this… She was sure she’d pay for such a sin in the afterlife. Even she drew a line somewhere.
Circenia listened closely as Vasia addressed Emilia, keeping her own expression neutral. The lingering implication of the woman’s words, however understated, was not lost on her, though she was not so convinced it wouldn’t be lost on her niece. She was a pretty girl, but her sister had certainly inherited the lion’s share of their father’s intelligence.
“Lady Vasia, you act as if the young princess is all alone,” she chimed in, letting her needlework fall into her lap as she turned to face the lady of Antonis. “While it is quite distressing that we have yet to locate our absent Queen, my family and I have done our best to ensure her sister is well looked after. Her Highness is surrounded by friends night and day. Isn’t that right, darling?” She turned a smile in Emilia’s direction, a charming expression, but one that did not quite reach her eyes. There was a subtle hint of warning there, one that cautioned the girl not to say anything she might regret.
It would seem that her appearance had caught people off guard. Did Elias tell them she had been unwell? The young princess was unsure of what news had been circulated to explain her absence, but whatever it was, Emilia hoped to dispel it with a smile and a wave of her hand at Lady Vasia. "It had not been planned, but the Gods smiled down upon us and I find myself with a pocket of time available to come down." she replied with a genuine smile, tilting her head in response to the respectful curtsy Vasia had presented her with.
Nodding at the woman's invitation, Emilia took a seat where Vasia had indicated, picking up some needle and a fine bolt of silk before starting to work. Contrary to what Vasia had said, Emilia's needlework was a far cry from beautiful. She had a head for design, but there was a reason why Emilia had ended up hiring so many seamstresses to help her make her idea's come alive. Having no inclination to sit down and focus for long made Emilia's handiwork sloppy and hurried, a sore sight.
In front of the nobility however, the brunette had to put on a show, and tried to appear as demure and gentle as she could as she focused on the needlework. Turning to the blonde as she directed a question at her, Emilia managed a neutrel, gentle smile as she nodded. Well? As well as one could be whilst having to deal with the death of their father and disappearance of her sister, she supposes, but she couldn't very well tell Vasia that. So instead, Emilia simply nodded, and gave gentle thanks to the Antonis lady. "Your well wishes and offer is very much appreciated Lady Vasia, and I will ensure Elias hears of your goodwill." She did not mention Persephone, for she would tell Persephone of the kindness offered by the Antonis lady should she see her sister again.
But that was a very big if.
Feeling that same sense of melancholy well up in her chest again, Emilia was quick to wipe it away and paste her smile back on her lips as she continued, "Have you and yours been well too, m'lady? I heard that times are a little hard in the capitol, with the waters running dry."
Her query had no chance to be responded to however, when the clear and sharp voice of her aunt rang through, and her brunette locks flew as Emilia whipped around to find the figure of Circenia, needlework in her lap. Biting her bottom lip, Emilia nodded, but with a watery smile. "Of course, Aunt Circenia." she murmured, and turned to Vasia again with another smile. "Lord Elias and the Stravoses have been an immeasurable help for the palati, for I am not used to running a kingdom, not as well as my sister does." Her words faltered towards the end, but were said nonetheless. While Elias had been nothing but kind and indulgent to Emilia throughout the time he's been in the palati, Emilia couldn't help but wonder occasionally, why was she only out at places her aunt or cousins were around.
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It would seem that her appearance had caught people off guard. Did Elias tell them she had been unwell? The young princess was unsure of what news had been circulated to explain her absence, but whatever it was, Emilia hoped to dispel it with a smile and a wave of her hand at Lady Vasia. "It had not been planned, but the Gods smiled down upon us and I find myself with a pocket of time available to come down." she replied with a genuine smile, tilting her head in response to the respectful curtsy Vasia had presented her with.
Nodding at the woman's invitation, Emilia took a seat where Vasia had indicated, picking up some needle and a fine bolt of silk before starting to work. Contrary to what Vasia had said, Emilia's needlework was a far cry from beautiful. She had a head for design, but there was a reason why Emilia had ended up hiring so many seamstresses to help her make her idea's come alive. Having no inclination to sit down and focus for long made Emilia's handiwork sloppy and hurried, a sore sight.
In front of the nobility however, the brunette had to put on a show, and tried to appear as demure and gentle as she could as she focused on the needlework. Turning to the blonde as she directed a question at her, Emilia managed a neutrel, gentle smile as she nodded. Well? As well as one could be whilst having to deal with the death of their father and disappearance of her sister, she supposes, but she couldn't very well tell Vasia that. So instead, Emilia simply nodded, and gave gentle thanks to the Antonis lady. "Your well wishes and offer is very much appreciated Lady Vasia, and I will ensure Elias hears of your goodwill." She did not mention Persephone, for she would tell Persephone of the kindness offered by the Antonis lady should she see her sister again.
But that was a very big if.
Feeling that same sense of melancholy well up in her chest again, Emilia was quick to wipe it away and paste her smile back on her lips as she continued, "Have you and yours been well too, m'lady? I heard that times are a little hard in the capitol, with the waters running dry."
Her query had no chance to be responded to however, when the clear and sharp voice of her aunt rang through, and her brunette locks flew as Emilia whipped around to find the figure of Circenia, needlework in her lap. Biting her bottom lip, Emilia nodded, but with a watery smile. "Of course, Aunt Circenia." she murmured, and turned to Vasia again with another smile. "Lord Elias and the Stravoses have been an immeasurable help for the palati, for I am not used to running a kingdom, not as well as my sister does." Her words faltered towards the end, but were said nonetheless. While Elias had been nothing but kind and indulgent to Emilia throughout the time he's been in the palati, Emilia couldn't help but wonder occasionally, why was she only out at places her aunt or cousins were around.
It would seem that her appearance had caught people off guard. Did Elias tell them she had been unwell? The young princess was unsure of what news had been circulated to explain her absence, but whatever it was, Emilia hoped to dispel it with a smile and a wave of her hand at Lady Vasia. "It had not been planned, but the Gods smiled down upon us and I find myself with a pocket of time available to come down." she replied with a genuine smile, tilting her head in response to the respectful curtsy Vasia had presented her with.
Nodding at the woman's invitation, Emilia took a seat where Vasia had indicated, picking up some needle and a fine bolt of silk before starting to work. Contrary to what Vasia had said, Emilia's needlework was a far cry from beautiful. She had a head for design, but there was a reason why Emilia had ended up hiring so many seamstresses to help her make her idea's come alive. Having no inclination to sit down and focus for long made Emilia's handiwork sloppy and hurried, a sore sight.
In front of the nobility however, the brunette had to put on a show, and tried to appear as demure and gentle as she could as she focused on the needlework. Turning to the blonde as she directed a question at her, Emilia managed a neutrel, gentle smile as she nodded. Well? As well as one could be whilst having to deal with the death of their father and disappearance of her sister, she supposes, but she couldn't very well tell Vasia that. So instead, Emilia simply nodded, and gave gentle thanks to the Antonis lady. "Your well wishes and offer is very much appreciated Lady Vasia, and I will ensure Elias hears of your goodwill." She did not mention Persephone, for she would tell Persephone of the kindness offered by the Antonis lady should she see her sister again.
But that was a very big if.
Feeling that same sense of melancholy well up in her chest again, Emilia was quick to wipe it away and paste her smile back on her lips as she continued, "Have you and yours been well too, m'lady? I heard that times are a little hard in the capitol, with the waters running dry."
Her query had no chance to be responded to however, when the clear and sharp voice of her aunt rang through, and her brunette locks flew as Emilia whipped around to find the figure of Circenia, needlework in her lap. Biting her bottom lip, Emilia nodded, but with a watery smile. "Of course, Aunt Circenia." she murmured, and turned to Vasia again with another smile. "Lord Elias and the Stravoses have been an immeasurable help for the palati, for I am not used to running a kingdom, not as well as my sister does." Her words faltered towards the end, but were said nonetheless. While Elias had been nothing but kind and indulgent to Emilia throughout the time he's been in the palati, Emilia couldn't help but wonder occasionally, why was she only out at places her aunt or cousins were around.
There was a curious glance sent Emilia’s way as the young lady mentioned passing on her well wishes to Elias of all people. Interesting, as they were not at all intended for him. But Vasia inclined her head as a neutral acknowledgement of the Princess’ words. And the blonde’s keen gaze did not miss the brave face that the young woman tried to keep in place, saw when it flickered and she felt again a stir of concern. It spoke well of her that she tried at least to guard her true feelings, but Vasia wondered if it were her own decision or if she had been briefed by those who might have vested interest in keeping the Princess silent.
The girl’s enquiry as to her own family was typical courtesy, but before the blonde could offer a response, they were interuppted. Vasia’s expression shifted minutely as Circenia set down her needlework to interject herself into conversation, the Antonis lady stilling her own hands as she turned her head to listen. It was of no great surprise to find the Stravos matriarch laying her fences around the young Princess. The young impressionable Princess whose father and sister had been wrenched from her in such quick succession.
“...my family and I have done our best to ensure her sister is well looked after. Her Highness is surrounded by friends night and day. Isn’t that right, darling?”
Vasia gave a slight laugh, as if to stress how silly such a notion was. “Oh but of course, your highness. I meant to suggest nothing different. Only to establish that Princess Emilia has friends outside of the Stravos family too.” She turned a bright smile upon Emilia. “You know, just in case she fancies a change of scenery”
But she could see the girl had already taken on board the less than subtle subtext of her Aunt’s words, and Vasia took a breath before responding to Emilia’s forced assurances. “And we would expect nothing different. All the best rulers have learnt from those around them, and the very best make sure to listen many balanced voices. I’m certain those in the senate would be more than happy to serve as advisors in those areas where the Stravos family are..less experienced.”
She gave a small shrug as if it were of no consequence, before returning to the sewing she held, drawing the needle through the silken fabric steadily and slowly. Though perhaps she might sit amongst a little nest of Stravos vipers, Vasia was not cowed by such a thing. Her family had an enduring business relationship with the other house that she knew they would not want to sour, and she thought it an important example to set for Emilia too, not to be bullied by sharp words coated in sugar.
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There was a curious glance sent Emilia’s way as the young lady mentioned passing on her well wishes to Elias of all people. Interesting, as they were not at all intended for him. But Vasia inclined her head as a neutral acknowledgement of the Princess’ words. And the blonde’s keen gaze did not miss the brave face that the young woman tried to keep in place, saw when it flickered and she felt again a stir of concern. It spoke well of her that she tried at least to guard her true feelings, but Vasia wondered if it were her own decision or if she had been briefed by those who might have vested interest in keeping the Princess silent.
The girl’s enquiry as to her own family was typical courtesy, but before the blonde could offer a response, they were interuppted. Vasia’s expression shifted minutely as Circenia set down her needlework to interject herself into conversation, the Antonis lady stilling her own hands as she turned her head to listen. It was of no great surprise to find the Stravos matriarch laying her fences around the young Princess. The young impressionable Princess whose father and sister had been wrenched from her in such quick succession.
“...my family and I have done our best to ensure her sister is well looked after. Her Highness is surrounded by friends night and day. Isn’t that right, darling?”
Vasia gave a slight laugh, as if to stress how silly such a notion was. “Oh but of course, your highness. I meant to suggest nothing different. Only to establish that Princess Emilia has friends outside of the Stravos family too.” She turned a bright smile upon Emilia. “You know, just in case she fancies a change of scenery”
But she could see the girl had already taken on board the less than subtle subtext of her Aunt’s words, and Vasia took a breath before responding to Emilia’s forced assurances. “And we would expect nothing different. All the best rulers have learnt from those around them, and the very best make sure to listen many balanced voices. I’m certain those in the senate would be more than happy to serve as advisors in those areas where the Stravos family are..less experienced.”
She gave a small shrug as if it were of no consequence, before returning to the sewing she held, drawing the needle through the silken fabric steadily and slowly. Though perhaps she might sit amongst a little nest of Stravos vipers, Vasia was not cowed by such a thing. Her family had an enduring business relationship with the other house that she knew they would not want to sour, and she thought it an important example to set for Emilia too, not to be bullied by sharp words coated in sugar.
There was a curious glance sent Emilia’s way as the young lady mentioned passing on her well wishes to Elias of all people. Interesting, as they were not at all intended for him. But Vasia inclined her head as a neutral acknowledgement of the Princess’ words. And the blonde’s keen gaze did not miss the brave face that the young woman tried to keep in place, saw when it flickered and she felt again a stir of concern. It spoke well of her that she tried at least to guard her true feelings, but Vasia wondered if it were her own decision or if she had been briefed by those who might have vested interest in keeping the Princess silent.
The girl’s enquiry as to her own family was typical courtesy, but before the blonde could offer a response, they were interuppted. Vasia’s expression shifted minutely as Circenia set down her needlework to interject herself into conversation, the Antonis lady stilling her own hands as she turned her head to listen. It was of no great surprise to find the Stravos matriarch laying her fences around the young Princess. The young impressionable Princess whose father and sister had been wrenched from her in such quick succession.
“...my family and I have done our best to ensure her sister is well looked after. Her Highness is surrounded by friends night and day. Isn’t that right, darling?”
Vasia gave a slight laugh, as if to stress how silly such a notion was. “Oh but of course, your highness. I meant to suggest nothing different. Only to establish that Princess Emilia has friends outside of the Stravos family too.” She turned a bright smile upon Emilia. “You know, just in case she fancies a change of scenery”
But she could see the girl had already taken on board the less than subtle subtext of her Aunt’s words, and Vasia took a breath before responding to Emilia’s forced assurances. “And we would expect nothing different. All the best rulers have learnt from those around them, and the very best make sure to listen many balanced voices. I’m certain those in the senate would be more than happy to serve as advisors in those areas where the Stravos family are..less experienced.”
She gave a small shrug as if it were of no consequence, before returning to the sewing she held, drawing the needle through the silken fabric steadily and slowly. Though perhaps she might sit amongst a little nest of Stravos vipers, Vasia was not cowed by such a thing. Her family had an enduring business relationship with the other house that she knew they would not want to sour, and she thought it an important example to set for Emilia too, not to be bullied by sharp words coated in sugar.
The Princess cast an approving look in Emilia’s direction as she said the words she ought to, even if their somewhat less enthusiastic delivery left something to be desired. She knew her niece wasn’t likely to speak out of turn amongst so many others, but it never hurt to be cautious. Circenia didn’t want the Court to be even more suspicious of her family’s motives than they already were.
“Nothing is preventing Her Highness from listening to the counsel of others,” the older woman said mildly in response to Vasia, lifting the needlework from her lap back into her hands and dismissively turning her attention away from her and Emilia both. “We are merely performing our familial duty where others have been severely lacking. My House has been stripped of nearly everything amidst vicious rumors others pretend not to spread, and yet we remain as steadfastly loyal as ever. Funny how that works.” Bone pushed through fabric with a soft hiss, tugging golden thread in its wake. Another hiss formed a small loop in her anchor, crystalline eyes intent on the emblem unfolding before her.
The Stravos matriarch’s expression never changed and her eyes never moved from the embroidery, but the accsatory undertone in her words was clear as she went on, “Strange that no one else has volunteered such counsel before today, don’t you agree? Wouldn’t you think our darling Princess needs those friends you speak of now more than ever, but where they have been, hm?” She lifted her voice enough that the other ladies might hear, even if she addressed none of them but Vasia. Keenly aware they were already listening, she merely wanted to emphasize her point. “Shameful, that’s what it is.” Finally deigning to actually look at the golden-haired woman she spoke to, she lifted a significant brow in her direction. “And a good thing she has you now too, eh? Perhaps you or your brothers might offer advice in areas where we Stravos… lack.”
Never mind that it was likely her own family’s presence that kept the nobles at bay, that they turned away politely made inquiries with vaguely woven tales of illness and distress. If such well-meaning friends were so determined to help their sweet little Princess, why had they not been more forceful in getting to her? Why had it been so easy to turn them away? Circenia knew well the value of another courtier’s ‘friendship,’ and there was even a small part of her that was a bit protective over her niece, that wanted to keep her safe from the other sharks in the water.
But that didn’t mean she’d refrain from sinking her own teeth in the girl. Better hers than someone else’s.
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The Princess cast an approving look in Emilia’s direction as she said the words she ought to, even if their somewhat less enthusiastic delivery left something to be desired. She knew her niece wasn’t likely to speak out of turn amongst so many others, but it never hurt to be cautious. Circenia didn’t want the Court to be even more suspicious of her family’s motives than they already were.
“Nothing is preventing Her Highness from listening to the counsel of others,” the older woman said mildly in response to Vasia, lifting the needlework from her lap back into her hands and dismissively turning her attention away from her and Emilia both. “We are merely performing our familial duty where others have been severely lacking. My House has been stripped of nearly everything amidst vicious rumors others pretend not to spread, and yet we remain as steadfastly loyal as ever. Funny how that works.” Bone pushed through fabric with a soft hiss, tugging golden thread in its wake. Another hiss formed a small loop in her anchor, crystalline eyes intent on the emblem unfolding before her.
The Stravos matriarch’s expression never changed and her eyes never moved from the embroidery, but the accsatory undertone in her words was clear as she went on, “Strange that no one else has volunteered such counsel before today, don’t you agree? Wouldn’t you think our darling Princess needs those friends you speak of now more than ever, but where they have been, hm?” She lifted her voice enough that the other ladies might hear, even if she addressed none of them but Vasia. Keenly aware they were already listening, she merely wanted to emphasize her point. “Shameful, that’s what it is.” Finally deigning to actually look at the golden-haired woman she spoke to, she lifted a significant brow in her direction. “And a good thing she has you now too, eh? Perhaps you or your brothers might offer advice in areas where we Stravos… lack.”
Never mind that it was likely her own family’s presence that kept the nobles at bay, that they turned away politely made inquiries with vaguely woven tales of illness and distress. If such well-meaning friends were so determined to help their sweet little Princess, why had they not been more forceful in getting to her? Why had it been so easy to turn them away? Circenia knew well the value of another courtier’s ‘friendship,’ and there was even a small part of her that was a bit protective over her niece, that wanted to keep her safe from the other sharks in the water.
But that didn’t mean she’d refrain from sinking her own teeth in the girl. Better hers than someone else’s.
The Princess cast an approving look in Emilia’s direction as she said the words she ought to, even if their somewhat less enthusiastic delivery left something to be desired. She knew her niece wasn’t likely to speak out of turn amongst so many others, but it never hurt to be cautious. Circenia didn’t want the Court to be even more suspicious of her family’s motives than they already were.
“Nothing is preventing Her Highness from listening to the counsel of others,” the older woman said mildly in response to Vasia, lifting the needlework from her lap back into her hands and dismissively turning her attention away from her and Emilia both. “We are merely performing our familial duty where others have been severely lacking. My House has been stripped of nearly everything amidst vicious rumors others pretend not to spread, and yet we remain as steadfastly loyal as ever. Funny how that works.” Bone pushed through fabric with a soft hiss, tugging golden thread in its wake. Another hiss formed a small loop in her anchor, crystalline eyes intent on the emblem unfolding before her.
The Stravos matriarch’s expression never changed and her eyes never moved from the embroidery, but the accsatory undertone in her words was clear as she went on, “Strange that no one else has volunteered such counsel before today, don’t you agree? Wouldn’t you think our darling Princess needs those friends you speak of now more than ever, but where they have been, hm?” She lifted her voice enough that the other ladies might hear, even if she addressed none of them but Vasia. Keenly aware they were already listening, she merely wanted to emphasize her point. “Shameful, that’s what it is.” Finally deigning to actually look at the golden-haired woman she spoke to, she lifted a significant brow in her direction. “And a good thing she has you now too, eh? Perhaps you or your brothers might offer advice in areas where we Stravos… lack.”
Never mind that it was likely her own family’s presence that kept the nobles at bay, that they turned away politely made inquiries with vaguely woven tales of illness and distress. If such well-meaning friends were so determined to help their sweet little Princess, why had they not been more forceful in getting to her? Why had it been so easy to turn them away? Circenia knew well the value of another courtier’s ‘friendship,’ and there was even a small part of her that was a bit protective over her niece, that wanted to keep her safe from the other sharks in the water.
But that didn’t mean she’d refrain from sinking her own teeth in the girl. Better hers than someone else’s.
It felt unnerving to feel eyes on her. Was this how Persephone always felt when she went to the Dikasitirio for senate? Emilia had always lived in the public eye, but the gazes thrown at her were always friendly or fond, never questioning and curious as they were now, and they were making the hair on her neck stand on end even as she kept her focus on Vasia and her aunt in attendance.
Returning the smile Vasia gave her with one of her own, Emilia hesitantly glanced at Circenia when she too responded with equal bite, and suddenly Emilia felt as if she was caught in the middle. There was no doubt in the voice of Circenia that she was still bitter over her father's actions a month ago... yet why was the Stravos helping her then?
Taking a gulp when the words were tossed in a faux polite manner between the two ladies, Emilia gave a nervous laugh as she too tugged threads through the fabric, and spoke. "I'm sure the royal families of Athenia are available should I ask. Perhaps.... perhaps I could go over for a meal with the Antonis's one of these days, Aunt Circenia?" Emilia asked with a brighter smile, and a question in the lilt of her tone.
Afterall, Vasia wasn't wrong in saying she may want a change of scenery. After a few weeks remaining indoors in the palati, her window the only connection to the outside world, Emilia found herself quite eager to see someone other then those of the Stravos family, and turned to Vasia with that same smile. "Do you mind, Lady Vasia? It has been far too long since our families shared a table, I feel." Keeping hr tone neutral and bright, it was obvious that while Emilia lack the prowess in political strategies, she was at the very least, a pacifist at heart and wished no arguments.
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It felt unnerving to feel eyes on her. Was this how Persephone always felt when she went to the Dikasitirio for senate? Emilia had always lived in the public eye, but the gazes thrown at her were always friendly or fond, never questioning and curious as they were now, and they were making the hair on her neck stand on end even as she kept her focus on Vasia and her aunt in attendance.
Returning the smile Vasia gave her with one of her own, Emilia hesitantly glanced at Circenia when she too responded with equal bite, and suddenly Emilia felt as if she was caught in the middle. There was no doubt in the voice of Circenia that she was still bitter over her father's actions a month ago... yet why was the Stravos helping her then?
Taking a gulp when the words were tossed in a faux polite manner between the two ladies, Emilia gave a nervous laugh as she too tugged threads through the fabric, and spoke. "I'm sure the royal families of Athenia are available should I ask. Perhaps.... perhaps I could go over for a meal with the Antonis's one of these days, Aunt Circenia?" Emilia asked with a brighter smile, and a question in the lilt of her tone.
Afterall, Vasia wasn't wrong in saying she may want a change of scenery. After a few weeks remaining indoors in the palati, her window the only connection to the outside world, Emilia found herself quite eager to see someone other then those of the Stravos family, and turned to Vasia with that same smile. "Do you mind, Lady Vasia? It has been far too long since our families shared a table, I feel." Keeping hr tone neutral and bright, it was obvious that while Emilia lack the prowess in political strategies, she was at the very least, a pacifist at heart and wished no arguments.
It felt unnerving to feel eyes on her. Was this how Persephone always felt when she went to the Dikasitirio for senate? Emilia had always lived in the public eye, but the gazes thrown at her were always friendly or fond, never questioning and curious as they were now, and they were making the hair on her neck stand on end even as she kept her focus on Vasia and her aunt in attendance.
Returning the smile Vasia gave her with one of her own, Emilia hesitantly glanced at Circenia when she too responded with equal bite, and suddenly Emilia felt as if she was caught in the middle. There was no doubt in the voice of Circenia that she was still bitter over her father's actions a month ago... yet why was the Stravos helping her then?
Taking a gulp when the words were tossed in a faux polite manner between the two ladies, Emilia gave a nervous laugh as she too tugged threads through the fabric, and spoke. "I'm sure the royal families of Athenia are available should I ask. Perhaps.... perhaps I could go over for a meal with the Antonis's one of these days, Aunt Circenia?" Emilia asked with a brighter smile, and a question in the lilt of her tone.
Afterall, Vasia wasn't wrong in saying she may want a change of scenery. After a few weeks remaining indoors in the palati, her window the only connection to the outside world, Emilia found herself quite eager to see someone other then those of the Stravos family, and turned to Vasia with that same smile. "Do you mind, Lady Vasia? It has been far too long since our families shared a table, I feel." Keeping hr tone neutral and bright, it was obvious that while Emilia lack the prowess in political strategies, she was at the very least, a pacifist at heart and wished no arguments.
Vasia’s eyebrows lifted but she made no comment at the very deliberate emphasis the Stravos matriarch was choosing to put upon her words. In truth she was surprised that the woman let herself be so obviously rattled as to malign her fellow courtiers. “Funny, indeed” she said, almost under her breath.
But she did not court trouble with the Princess Circenia. Vasia only looked to ensure the young Princess knew she was not without help, and she was quick to dismiss the notion that the Stravos’ were the only ones who would offer it. “It has been but three days,your highness. Certainly people do not wish to intrude too soon after what was a harrowing ordeal. But now we see the Princess is well enough to be out amongst the people then I am sure she will have many offers of company.” She turned her gaze back towards Emilia, her expression softening as she smiled at the younger girl. “And of course, my family and I will offer our aid and support in any way that we can. That goes without needing to be said, Princess Emilia”
Reading the young girls disquiet, Vasia scolded herself for being drawn into an exchange that had clearly made the Princess feel uncomfortable,and when the girl tentatively made an enquiry about dinner, the blonde Antonis found herself hoping that Circenia would at least not make things any more awkward by denying Emilia her request. She shot the girl a small smile and was quick to establish her own willingness.
“It would be our pleasure to host you your Majesty. And of course, the invitation extends to your Aunt and cousins if they should care to join you.” Anything else would have been rude of course, and Vasia would not have that. She had shifted her eyes to the Princess Circenia as she spoke, offering the woman a nod before looking back to her sewing. Coming to the end of her thread, the Antonis lady narrowed her gaze at the design that appearing, and glanced at Sophia. “I think the green spool, please Sophia” before she set about threading the bone needle with a new length of. sea green silk.
Slowly but surely the shape of a rose was beginning to take shape, though honestly, if Vasia were a goddess, she thought she would prefer something much finer. She would be content if only her humble efforts did not manage to offend Aphrodite somehow. Although she supposed they were doing what was important in showing the people that life must go on as usual.
“Perhaps you might let me know a day that suits, Princess Emilia, and which of your party will be joining us? I will try and drum up my brother’s company if I am able, though I cannot promise they will not turn talk to soldiering more than aught else”
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Vasia’s eyebrows lifted but she made no comment at the very deliberate emphasis the Stravos matriarch was choosing to put upon her words. In truth she was surprised that the woman let herself be so obviously rattled as to malign her fellow courtiers. “Funny, indeed” she said, almost under her breath.
But she did not court trouble with the Princess Circenia. Vasia only looked to ensure the young Princess knew she was not without help, and she was quick to dismiss the notion that the Stravos’ were the only ones who would offer it. “It has been but three days,your highness. Certainly people do not wish to intrude too soon after what was a harrowing ordeal. But now we see the Princess is well enough to be out amongst the people then I am sure she will have many offers of company.” She turned her gaze back towards Emilia, her expression softening as she smiled at the younger girl. “And of course, my family and I will offer our aid and support in any way that we can. That goes without needing to be said, Princess Emilia”
Reading the young girls disquiet, Vasia scolded herself for being drawn into an exchange that had clearly made the Princess feel uncomfortable,and when the girl tentatively made an enquiry about dinner, the blonde Antonis found herself hoping that Circenia would at least not make things any more awkward by denying Emilia her request. She shot the girl a small smile and was quick to establish her own willingness.
“It would be our pleasure to host you your Majesty. And of course, the invitation extends to your Aunt and cousins if they should care to join you.” Anything else would have been rude of course, and Vasia would not have that. She had shifted her eyes to the Princess Circenia as she spoke, offering the woman a nod before looking back to her sewing. Coming to the end of her thread, the Antonis lady narrowed her gaze at the design that appearing, and glanced at Sophia. “I think the green spool, please Sophia” before she set about threading the bone needle with a new length of. sea green silk.
Slowly but surely the shape of a rose was beginning to take shape, though honestly, if Vasia were a goddess, she thought she would prefer something much finer. She would be content if only her humble efforts did not manage to offend Aphrodite somehow. Although she supposed they were doing what was important in showing the people that life must go on as usual.
“Perhaps you might let me know a day that suits, Princess Emilia, and which of your party will be joining us? I will try and drum up my brother’s company if I am able, though I cannot promise they will not turn talk to soldiering more than aught else”
Vasia’s eyebrows lifted but she made no comment at the very deliberate emphasis the Stravos matriarch was choosing to put upon her words. In truth she was surprised that the woman let herself be so obviously rattled as to malign her fellow courtiers. “Funny, indeed” she said, almost under her breath.
But she did not court trouble with the Princess Circenia. Vasia only looked to ensure the young Princess knew she was not without help, and she was quick to dismiss the notion that the Stravos’ were the only ones who would offer it. “It has been but three days,your highness. Certainly people do not wish to intrude too soon after what was a harrowing ordeal. But now we see the Princess is well enough to be out amongst the people then I am sure she will have many offers of company.” She turned her gaze back towards Emilia, her expression softening as she smiled at the younger girl. “And of course, my family and I will offer our aid and support in any way that we can. That goes without needing to be said, Princess Emilia”
Reading the young girls disquiet, Vasia scolded herself for being drawn into an exchange that had clearly made the Princess feel uncomfortable,and when the girl tentatively made an enquiry about dinner, the blonde Antonis found herself hoping that Circenia would at least not make things any more awkward by denying Emilia her request. She shot the girl a small smile and was quick to establish her own willingness.
“It would be our pleasure to host you your Majesty. And of course, the invitation extends to your Aunt and cousins if they should care to join you.” Anything else would have been rude of course, and Vasia would not have that. She had shifted her eyes to the Princess Circenia as she spoke, offering the woman a nod before looking back to her sewing. Coming to the end of her thread, the Antonis lady narrowed her gaze at the design that appearing, and glanced at Sophia. “I think the green spool, please Sophia” before she set about threading the bone needle with a new length of. sea green silk.
Slowly but surely the shape of a rose was beginning to take shape, though honestly, if Vasia were a goddess, she thought she would prefer something much finer. She would be content if only her humble efforts did not manage to offend Aphrodite somehow. Although she supposed they were doing what was important in showing the people that life must go on as usual.
“Perhaps you might let me know a day that suits, Princess Emilia, and which of your party will be joining us? I will try and drum up my brother’s company if I am able, though I cannot promise they will not turn talk to soldiering more than aught else”
Three days. Was that all it had been? Only three days? With everything that had happened, it felt so much longer, and it was hard for Circenia to keep it all straight in her head. The princess had a well-deserved reputation for fire and fury, but the fact of it was that she was grieving too. No matter what the rest of the Court thought of her, an ill opinion that the Stravos matriarch was well aware of and didn’t really dispute, Minas had still been her brother. Her most beloved sibling by far, and even with her caustic demeanor, she had taken his passing hard. Perhaps her lack of propriety might be forgiven, considering the magnitude of the loss they all faced.
The princess nearly regretted the tone she had taken with the two younger women, biting back any further scathing words that would do well to work against her in her already precarious position. Even she slipped up sometimes, in spite of her years navigating the choppy waters of the Athenian Court, and she knew when it was time to dive in further and when it was time to head for the surface. This situation definitely called for the latter. No need to add more fuel to the already blazing bonfire ready to consume the entire Stravos line.
Instead, she simply nodded to both of them and firmly bit her tongue, doing her best to don a gracious mask. Circenia hardly felt gracious in that moment, but no matter. It wouldn’t do to be seen as the heartless monster they undoubtedly all thought she was.
“Thank you for your kind offer, Lady Vasia,” Circenia murmured, dropping her gaze once more to the embroidery in her hands. The lady of Antonis had deftly worked her way in, and the lady of Stravos could find no graceful way out. At least Vasia had included the stipulation that her entire family might accompany Emilia; she’d be damned if she let the girl out of her sight that long. Gods only knew what poison the other nobles might lace her niece’s ears with.
“It would likely do us all some good to have a change of scenery, not just the princess. Hearts are heavy and tempers are short these days.” Though she spun lies with more ease than she spun thread, that much, at least, was true. When Circenia suffered, so did the rest of the house. She wasn’t exactly one to suffer in silence. “We’d be delighted to accept your dinner invitation. We’ll wait on your convenience, of course. We’ve no wish to burden you.”
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Three days. Was that all it had been? Only three days? With everything that had happened, it felt so much longer, and it was hard for Circenia to keep it all straight in her head. The princess had a well-deserved reputation for fire and fury, but the fact of it was that she was grieving too. No matter what the rest of the Court thought of her, an ill opinion that the Stravos matriarch was well aware of and didn’t really dispute, Minas had still been her brother. Her most beloved sibling by far, and even with her caustic demeanor, she had taken his passing hard. Perhaps her lack of propriety might be forgiven, considering the magnitude of the loss they all faced.
The princess nearly regretted the tone she had taken with the two younger women, biting back any further scathing words that would do well to work against her in her already precarious position. Even she slipped up sometimes, in spite of her years navigating the choppy waters of the Athenian Court, and she knew when it was time to dive in further and when it was time to head for the surface. This situation definitely called for the latter. No need to add more fuel to the already blazing bonfire ready to consume the entire Stravos line.
Instead, she simply nodded to both of them and firmly bit her tongue, doing her best to don a gracious mask. Circenia hardly felt gracious in that moment, but no matter. It wouldn’t do to be seen as the heartless monster they undoubtedly all thought she was.
“Thank you for your kind offer, Lady Vasia,” Circenia murmured, dropping her gaze once more to the embroidery in her hands. The lady of Antonis had deftly worked her way in, and the lady of Stravos could find no graceful way out. At least Vasia had included the stipulation that her entire family might accompany Emilia; she’d be damned if she let the girl out of her sight that long. Gods only knew what poison the other nobles might lace her niece’s ears with.
“It would likely do us all some good to have a change of scenery, not just the princess. Hearts are heavy and tempers are short these days.” Though she spun lies with more ease than she spun thread, that much, at least, was true. When Circenia suffered, so did the rest of the house. She wasn’t exactly one to suffer in silence. “We’d be delighted to accept your dinner invitation. We’ll wait on your convenience, of course. We’ve no wish to burden you.”
Three days. Was that all it had been? Only three days? With everything that had happened, it felt so much longer, and it was hard for Circenia to keep it all straight in her head. The princess had a well-deserved reputation for fire and fury, but the fact of it was that she was grieving too. No matter what the rest of the Court thought of her, an ill opinion that the Stravos matriarch was well aware of and didn’t really dispute, Minas had still been her brother. Her most beloved sibling by far, and even with her caustic demeanor, she had taken his passing hard. Perhaps her lack of propriety might be forgiven, considering the magnitude of the loss they all faced.
The princess nearly regretted the tone she had taken with the two younger women, biting back any further scathing words that would do well to work against her in her already precarious position. Even she slipped up sometimes, in spite of her years navigating the choppy waters of the Athenian Court, and she knew when it was time to dive in further and when it was time to head for the surface. This situation definitely called for the latter. No need to add more fuel to the already blazing bonfire ready to consume the entire Stravos line.
Instead, she simply nodded to both of them and firmly bit her tongue, doing her best to don a gracious mask. Circenia hardly felt gracious in that moment, but no matter. It wouldn’t do to be seen as the heartless monster they undoubtedly all thought she was.
“Thank you for your kind offer, Lady Vasia,” Circenia murmured, dropping her gaze once more to the embroidery in her hands. The lady of Antonis had deftly worked her way in, and the lady of Stravos could find no graceful way out. At least Vasia had included the stipulation that her entire family might accompany Emilia; she’d be damned if she let the girl out of her sight that long. Gods only knew what poison the other nobles might lace her niece’s ears with.
“It would likely do us all some good to have a change of scenery, not just the princess. Hearts are heavy and tempers are short these days.” Though she spun lies with more ease than she spun thread, that much, at least, was true. When Circenia suffered, so did the rest of the house. She wasn’t exactly one to suffer in silence. “We’d be delighted to accept your dinner invitation. We’ll wait on your convenience, of course. We’ve no wish to burden you.”
She smiled gratefully to Vasia and the woman's gracious offer extended, some light shining on her currently dark predicament of her days. Perhaps she would have something to look forward to soon? For her days seemed bleak now, with naught much she could do. That Circenia answered in a positive manner only boosted Emilia's spirits, for once a sign of life flickering in her previously saddened hazel gaze.
Quickly nodding in agreement to Circenia's words, Emilia was glib to add on, "Of course, Aunt Circenia. Lady Vasia, I would be happy to go at a convenience of your family. I have met Lord Stelios before, not too long ago,and would be happy for his company." She's also met Captain Leonidas at the same time, but knowing the dubious family background the Antonis had in regards to the bastard son of the family, Emilia knew better then to bring that up. But she enjoyed the company of both the Antonis men, and would be delighted if they joined the meal now being planned.
Her eyes fell on the rose Vasia worked on, and for a moment, Emilia's eyes flashed with good-natured envy as she looked despondently at what was supposed to be a pink anemone - which now looked like any other flower. She was sadly lacking in the skills some ladies should have in court, lessons Persephone had tried hiring tutors for her, yet most of those tutors had failed, simply due to Emilia's lack of ability to sit still for too long.
A wane, almost sorry smile appeared on her lips as she tangled her threads yet again, biting her lip. "You're of course, far better at this then I am, Lady Vasia. Maybe the meal could be a time for me to work on my needlework too." Hesitantly, Emilia looked over at Circenia. Perhaps in doing so, and stating what sort of activities they would be doing, there wouldn't be a need for Danae and Circenia to escort her to that too? While Emilia was not afraid of the Stravos family technically, she was feeling a tad.... over-watched of late, and dearly wanted some time alone.
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She smiled gratefully to Vasia and the woman's gracious offer extended, some light shining on her currently dark predicament of her days. Perhaps she would have something to look forward to soon? For her days seemed bleak now, with naught much she could do. That Circenia answered in a positive manner only boosted Emilia's spirits, for once a sign of life flickering in her previously saddened hazel gaze.
Quickly nodding in agreement to Circenia's words, Emilia was glib to add on, "Of course, Aunt Circenia. Lady Vasia, I would be happy to go at a convenience of your family. I have met Lord Stelios before, not too long ago,and would be happy for his company." She's also met Captain Leonidas at the same time, but knowing the dubious family background the Antonis had in regards to the bastard son of the family, Emilia knew better then to bring that up. But she enjoyed the company of both the Antonis men, and would be delighted if they joined the meal now being planned.
Her eyes fell on the rose Vasia worked on, and for a moment, Emilia's eyes flashed with good-natured envy as she looked despondently at what was supposed to be a pink anemone - which now looked like any other flower. She was sadly lacking in the skills some ladies should have in court, lessons Persephone had tried hiring tutors for her, yet most of those tutors had failed, simply due to Emilia's lack of ability to sit still for too long.
A wane, almost sorry smile appeared on her lips as she tangled her threads yet again, biting her lip. "You're of course, far better at this then I am, Lady Vasia. Maybe the meal could be a time for me to work on my needlework too." Hesitantly, Emilia looked over at Circenia. Perhaps in doing so, and stating what sort of activities they would be doing, there wouldn't be a need for Danae and Circenia to escort her to that too? While Emilia was not afraid of the Stravos family technically, she was feeling a tad.... over-watched of late, and dearly wanted some time alone.
She smiled gratefully to Vasia and the woman's gracious offer extended, some light shining on her currently dark predicament of her days. Perhaps she would have something to look forward to soon? For her days seemed bleak now, with naught much she could do. That Circenia answered in a positive manner only boosted Emilia's spirits, for once a sign of life flickering in her previously saddened hazel gaze.
Quickly nodding in agreement to Circenia's words, Emilia was glib to add on, "Of course, Aunt Circenia. Lady Vasia, I would be happy to go at a convenience of your family. I have met Lord Stelios before, not too long ago,and would be happy for his company." She's also met Captain Leonidas at the same time, but knowing the dubious family background the Antonis had in regards to the bastard son of the family, Emilia knew better then to bring that up. But she enjoyed the company of both the Antonis men, and would be delighted if they joined the meal now being planned.
Her eyes fell on the rose Vasia worked on, and for a moment, Emilia's eyes flashed with good-natured envy as she looked despondently at what was supposed to be a pink anemone - which now looked like any other flower. She was sadly lacking in the skills some ladies should have in court, lessons Persephone had tried hiring tutors for her, yet most of those tutors had failed, simply due to Emilia's lack of ability to sit still for too long.
A wane, almost sorry smile appeared on her lips as she tangled her threads yet again, biting her lip. "You're of course, far better at this then I am, Lady Vasia. Maybe the meal could be a time for me to work on my needlework too." Hesitantly, Emilia looked over at Circenia. Perhaps in doing so, and stating what sort of activities they would be doing, there wouldn't be a need for Danae and Circenia to escort her to that too? While Emilia was not afraid of the Stravos family technically, she was feeling a tad.... over-watched of late, and dearly wanted some time alone.
As Vasia’s fingers coaxed a delicate design out the silk thread, she wondered how on earth she had managed to invite the entire Stravos family to sup with them. That would be an interesting evening. She was already considering the ways she might entrap her brothers into attending because Vasia would be damned if she was the only one playing hostess to such a gathering. Aunt Lysta too if she could manage it.
“Of course. It is times such as these when we all must support each other, your Highness, and friends are never a burden.” she intoned to Circenia, though even she could admit that friends was a little of a stretch. “I shall send a messenger once I have spoken to the family”
When she shifted her attention to Princess Emilia again, Vasia’s expression softened. “ Well then I shall insist Stelios is present, your majesty. Gods knows he should eat somewhere other than the barracks now and again.” When the girl looked enviously at the needlework in Vasia’s lap, the Antonis woman gave a small, bright laugh.
“ Oh I am sure our Housekeeper would be glad to have someone else to pass her skills on to. She was always complaining that I was a most uninterested student. “ Indeed Vasia considered her abilities passable at most. Sewing had never been a thing to hold her attention, she was much happier getting lost in the library or attending lectures at the University. Sewing was...a reasonable distraction when one had nothing better to do. In fact, Vasia would almost rather spend her free time practicing her knife work than her embroidery, but that was not considered a ladylike pursuit and so she polished those skills that were more socially acceptable too.
Hence the passable example of a rose that could be seen upon the cloth she held, and the blonde began to pick out a simple edging of leaves and vines. There was a quiet that had fallen over the assembled noblewomen and it was not altogether unwelcome. Vasia was not afraid to cross swords with the Stravos matriarch, but it was hardly relaxing, and she found herself thinking again how she envied her brothers and their more simplistic and direct way of approaching things. Mateos, perhaps, could understand how much of a trial it could be to speak words that said one thing but meant another, but he built his reputation on his military acumen so it was hardly the same. It was Vasia who found herself navigating the more subtle side of social hierarchy. And her brothers did not know how fortunate they were to sidestep it and just wave a sword around instead.
It was the arrival of a common woman bearing a jug of Kykeon that had the Antonis woman set down the sewing finally and sit back with a smile of thanks as she accepted the offered refreshment, her gaze drifting over the needlework that the other noblewomen toiled over with a considering look.
“I suppose we ought to think about gathering our efforts into something cohesive for our Goddess to wear” she mused, before taking a sip of the cool drink. For whilst they had singularly worked on some pretty little designs, the goddess Athena would be rather scantily attired should they not stitch them together into something more substantial.
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As Vasia’s fingers coaxed a delicate design out the silk thread, she wondered how on earth she had managed to invite the entire Stravos family to sup with them. That would be an interesting evening. She was already considering the ways she might entrap her brothers into attending because Vasia would be damned if she was the only one playing hostess to such a gathering. Aunt Lysta too if she could manage it.
“Of course. It is times such as these when we all must support each other, your Highness, and friends are never a burden.” she intoned to Circenia, though even she could admit that friends was a little of a stretch. “I shall send a messenger once I have spoken to the family”
When she shifted her attention to Princess Emilia again, Vasia’s expression softened. “ Well then I shall insist Stelios is present, your majesty. Gods knows he should eat somewhere other than the barracks now and again.” When the girl looked enviously at the needlework in Vasia’s lap, the Antonis woman gave a small, bright laugh.
“ Oh I am sure our Housekeeper would be glad to have someone else to pass her skills on to. She was always complaining that I was a most uninterested student. “ Indeed Vasia considered her abilities passable at most. Sewing had never been a thing to hold her attention, she was much happier getting lost in the library or attending lectures at the University. Sewing was...a reasonable distraction when one had nothing better to do. In fact, Vasia would almost rather spend her free time practicing her knife work than her embroidery, but that was not considered a ladylike pursuit and so she polished those skills that were more socially acceptable too.
Hence the passable example of a rose that could be seen upon the cloth she held, and the blonde began to pick out a simple edging of leaves and vines. There was a quiet that had fallen over the assembled noblewomen and it was not altogether unwelcome. Vasia was not afraid to cross swords with the Stravos matriarch, but it was hardly relaxing, and she found herself thinking again how she envied her brothers and their more simplistic and direct way of approaching things. Mateos, perhaps, could understand how much of a trial it could be to speak words that said one thing but meant another, but he built his reputation on his military acumen so it was hardly the same. It was Vasia who found herself navigating the more subtle side of social hierarchy. And her brothers did not know how fortunate they were to sidestep it and just wave a sword around instead.
It was the arrival of a common woman bearing a jug of Kykeon that had the Antonis woman set down the sewing finally and sit back with a smile of thanks as she accepted the offered refreshment, her gaze drifting over the needlework that the other noblewomen toiled over with a considering look.
“I suppose we ought to think about gathering our efforts into something cohesive for our Goddess to wear” she mused, before taking a sip of the cool drink. For whilst they had singularly worked on some pretty little designs, the goddess Athena would be rather scantily attired should they not stitch them together into something more substantial.
As Vasia’s fingers coaxed a delicate design out the silk thread, she wondered how on earth she had managed to invite the entire Stravos family to sup with them. That would be an interesting evening. She was already considering the ways she might entrap her brothers into attending because Vasia would be damned if she was the only one playing hostess to such a gathering. Aunt Lysta too if she could manage it.
“Of course. It is times such as these when we all must support each other, your Highness, and friends are never a burden.” she intoned to Circenia, though even she could admit that friends was a little of a stretch. “I shall send a messenger once I have spoken to the family”
When she shifted her attention to Princess Emilia again, Vasia’s expression softened. “ Well then I shall insist Stelios is present, your majesty. Gods knows he should eat somewhere other than the barracks now and again.” When the girl looked enviously at the needlework in Vasia’s lap, the Antonis woman gave a small, bright laugh.
“ Oh I am sure our Housekeeper would be glad to have someone else to pass her skills on to. She was always complaining that I was a most uninterested student. “ Indeed Vasia considered her abilities passable at most. Sewing had never been a thing to hold her attention, she was much happier getting lost in the library or attending lectures at the University. Sewing was...a reasonable distraction when one had nothing better to do. In fact, Vasia would almost rather spend her free time practicing her knife work than her embroidery, but that was not considered a ladylike pursuit and so she polished those skills that were more socially acceptable too.
Hence the passable example of a rose that could be seen upon the cloth she held, and the blonde began to pick out a simple edging of leaves and vines. There was a quiet that had fallen over the assembled noblewomen and it was not altogether unwelcome. Vasia was not afraid to cross swords with the Stravos matriarch, but it was hardly relaxing, and she found herself thinking again how she envied her brothers and their more simplistic and direct way of approaching things. Mateos, perhaps, could understand how much of a trial it could be to speak words that said one thing but meant another, but he built his reputation on his military acumen so it was hardly the same. It was Vasia who found herself navigating the more subtle side of social hierarchy. And her brothers did not know how fortunate they were to sidestep it and just wave a sword around instead.
It was the arrival of a common woman bearing a jug of Kykeon that had the Antonis woman set down the sewing finally and sit back with a smile of thanks as she accepted the offered refreshment, her gaze drifting over the needlework that the other noblewomen toiled over with a considering look.
“I suppose we ought to think about gathering our efforts into something cohesive for our Goddess to wear” she mused, before taking a sip of the cool drink. For whilst they had singularly worked on some pretty little designs, the goddess Athena would be rather scantily attired should they not stitch them together into something more substantial.
Curveball Sew Your Respect
Despite the efforts of the people of Athenia, it would appear that the chaos and discord that has fallen upon the kingdom has displeased the Goddess enough that even her loyal celebrations of the himation sewing are to be interrupted by the divine. As the people of Athenia rush to attempt to keep the himation dry and out of the downpour, rain begins to hammer down upon the proceedings, not there one moment and heavy in its torrents the next. Everyone must rush to bring the sacred garment into the temple if they are to avoid any further anger from the great Goddess of Wisdom...
JD
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JD
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Despite the efforts of the people of Athenia, it would appear that the chaos and discord that has fallen upon the kingdom has displeased the Goddess enough that even her loyal celebrations of the himation sewing are to be interrupted by the divine. As the people of Athenia rush to attempt to keep the himation dry and out of the downpour, rain begins to hammer down upon the proceedings, not there one moment and heavy in its torrents the next. Everyone must rush to bring the sacred garment into the temple if they are to avoid any further anger from the great Goddess of Wisdom...
Curveball Sew Your Respect
Despite the efforts of the people of Athenia, it would appear that the chaos and discord that has fallen upon the kingdom has displeased the Goddess enough that even her loyal celebrations of the himation sewing are to be interrupted by the divine. As the people of Athenia rush to attempt to keep the himation dry and out of the downpour, rain begins to hammer down upon the proceedings, not there one moment and heavy in its torrents the next. Everyone must rush to bring the sacred garment into the temple if they are to avoid any further anger from the great Goddess of Wisdom...
Circenia made a noncommittal noise as Emilia and Vasia continued to speak, seemingly more interested in her sewing than what they had to say. Truly, she was ready for this whole affair to be over; it had been a long few days, and the position she now occupied was a tiring one. Princess still, but no longer noble, makeshift guardian of the heir apparent… there were times even Circenia longed for a quieter life, even if those times were few and far between. This, however, definitely qualified as one of them.
So intent on the golden anchor she stitched, she didn’t notice at first when a few drops of rain tickled her hair. The day had been clear and sunny thus far, so why should any of them have thought to prepare for a storm? It was only a matter of moments, however, until she felt more drops on her face, looking up in annoyance when she saw the dark clouds rolling in.
“Of all the days…”
Hastening to her feet, she started gathering up the cloth within her reach, her sister quickly joining in to do the same. Chara rushed to join them, but not before the smattering of droplets turned into a full-on deluge. They were soaked, the himation was soaked, and she couldn’t help but think this had all been for naught.
The courtyard was a bustling frenzy of activity, the various servants and retainers rushing to help the noblewomen get the large swath of fabric inside. By the time the princess got inside the temple, she was sopping wet—her chiton dripping on the ground and clinging to her in a most unappealing fashion. “Towels,” she snapped at one of the temple’s acolytes, ringing out her peplos until there was a puddle on the floor. “Rags, whatever you can find. The himation might be ruined already, but we have to at least try to salvage it.” The girl nodded and hastened off to obey the princess’s orders, though she doubted it would do any good.
Glancing despondently out the window, Circenia sighed. Was this some sort of divine retribution or simply an unhappy coincidence? Either way, it boded well for none of them—all of that work they’d done lay scrunched up in a dripping mess on the floor.
What a waste…
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Circenia made a noncommittal noise as Emilia and Vasia continued to speak, seemingly more interested in her sewing than what they had to say. Truly, she was ready for this whole affair to be over; it had been a long few days, and the position she now occupied was a tiring one. Princess still, but no longer noble, makeshift guardian of the heir apparent… there were times even Circenia longed for a quieter life, even if those times were few and far between. This, however, definitely qualified as one of them.
So intent on the golden anchor she stitched, she didn’t notice at first when a few drops of rain tickled her hair. The day had been clear and sunny thus far, so why should any of them have thought to prepare for a storm? It was only a matter of moments, however, until she felt more drops on her face, looking up in annoyance when she saw the dark clouds rolling in.
“Of all the days…”
Hastening to her feet, she started gathering up the cloth within her reach, her sister quickly joining in to do the same. Chara rushed to join them, but not before the smattering of droplets turned into a full-on deluge. They were soaked, the himation was soaked, and she couldn’t help but think this had all been for naught.
The courtyard was a bustling frenzy of activity, the various servants and retainers rushing to help the noblewomen get the large swath of fabric inside. By the time the princess got inside the temple, she was sopping wet—her chiton dripping on the ground and clinging to her in a most unappealing fashion. “Towels,” she snapped at one of the temple’s acolytes, ringing out her peplos until there was a puddle on the floor. “Rags, whatever you can find. The himation might be ruined already, but we have to at least try to salvage it.” The girl nodded and hastened off to obey the princess’s orders, though she doubted it would do any good.
Glancing despondently out the window, Circenia sighed. Was this some sort of divine retribution or simply an unhappy coincidence? Either way, it boded well for none of them—all of that work they’d done lay scrunched up in a dripping mess on the floor.
What a waste…
Circenia made a noncommittal noise as Emilia and Vasia continued to speak, seemingly more interested in her sewing than what they had to say. Truly, she was ready for this whole affair to be over; it had been a long few days, and the position she now occupied was a tiring one. Princess still, but no longer noble, makeshift guardian of the heir apparent… there were times even Circenia longed for a quieter life, even if those times were few and far between. This, however, definitely qualified as one of them.
So intent on the golden anchor she stitched, she didn’t notice at first when a few drops of rain tickled her hair. The day had been clear and sunny thus far, so why should any of them have thought to prepare for a storm? It was only a matter of moments, however, until she felt more drops on her face, looking up in annoyance when she saw the dark clouds rolling in.
“Of all the days…”
Hastening to her feet, she started gathering up the cloth within her reach, her sister quickly joining in to do the same. Chara rushed to join them, but not before the smattering of droplets turned into a full-on deluge. They were soaked, the himation was soaked, and she couldn’t help but think this had all been for naught.
The courtyard was a bustling frenzy of activity, the various servants and retainers rushing to help the noblewomen get the large swath of fabric inside. By the time the princess got inside the temple, she was sopping wet—her chiton dripping on the ground and clinging to her in a most unappealing fashion. “Towels,” she snapped at one of the temple’s acolytes, ringing out her peplos until there was a puddle on the floor. “Rags, whatever you can find. The himation might be ruined already, but we have to at least try to salvage it.” The girl nodded and hastened off to obey the princess’s orders, though she doubted it would do any good.
Glancing despondently out the window, Circenia sighed. Was this some sort of divine retribution or simply an unhappy coincidence? Either way, it boded well for none of them—all of that work they’d done lay scrunched up in a dripping mess on the floor.
What a waste…
Emilia laughed when Vasia suggested that she may be a better student for the housekeeper of the Antonis houshold. If anyone could get ahold of her old tutors, she was very sure they would give a very different conclusion. There was a reason afterall, why Persephone has had to go through so many tutors who had quit from the job of teaching the young Xanthos princess, and why her father had begun to despair of ever finding a proper husband who would take the princess - not that there was a lack of trying, since Emilia had practically fallen in love with half the men in Athenia.
But still, she tried. She would return home that night with half a dozen pinpricks in her fingers, but let it be said that Emilia of Xanthos was not someone who gave up. With tongue in between teeth, looking at it far too close to be useful, she did her best to work hard in silence as everyone did the same around her, but could only do half as quick as everyone else at best.
Her ears had begun to ring to how hard she focused to try and stitch the pattern of a dove, when the jug of kykeon arrived with the maid. Emilia accepted the refreshment with a grateful smile, beginning to nod in agreement to Vasia's statement when the first fat droplets of rain began to fall upon her skin, the wrath of Zeus clearly felt. Did he not accept the offering they were weaving as a cohesive unit for Athena? Or was Athena herself unhappy, annd this was her sign for it?
Whatever it may be, the first thing they should do was to try and get the pattern out of the rain, and as the other noble ladies picked up their items and tried to make it for shelter to save as much of the work they had done as possible. Emilia herself hugged a swath of fabric to her chest, but the rain blurred her vision, and the frenzy of noble ladies and maids alike meant that Emilia's journey to the shelter of the Naos was stunted at every step, that it did not take long before her own himation was soaked through. Each step she took was a muddy one, her feet soaked through that by the time she found her step in to the temple, the slippery surface and her blurred vision meant all it took was one second for Emilia to loose her footing and pitch forward - and watch in horror as her hands hit the ground, and the swath of white fabric she carried fell directly into a large, muddy area where the dirt wasted no time in staining the cloth.
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Emilia laughed when Vasia suggested that she may be a better student for the housekeeper of the Antonis houshold. If anyone could get ahold of her old tutors, she was very sure they would give a very different conclusion. There was a reason afterall, why Persephone has had to go through so many tutors who had quit from the job of teaching the young Xanthos princess, and why her father had begun to despair of ever finding a proper husband who would take the princess - not that there was a lack of trying, since Emilia had practically fallen in love with half the men in Athenia.
But still, she tried. She would return home that night with half a dozen pinpricks in her fingers, but let it be said that Emilia of Xanthos was not someone who gave up. With tongue in between teeth, looking at it far too close to be useful, she did her best to work hard in silence as everyone did the same around her, but could only do half as quick as everyone else at best.
Her ears had begun to ring to how hard she focused to try and stitch the pattern of a dove, when the jug of kykeon arrived with the maid. Emilia accepted the refreshment with a grateful smile, beginning to nod in agreement to Vasia's statement when the first fat droplets of rain began to fall upon her skin, the wrath of Zeus clearly felt. Did he not accept the offering they were weaving as a cohesive unit for Athena? Or was Athena herself unhappy, annd this was her sign for it?
Whatever it may be, the first thing they should do was to try and get the pattern out of the rain, and as the other noble ladies picked up their items and tried to make it for shelter to save as much of the work they had done as possible. Emilia herself hugged a swath of fabric to her chest, but the rain blurred her vision, and the frenzy of noble ladies and maids alike meant that Emilia's journey to the shelter of the Naos was stunted at every step, that it did not take long before her own himation was soaked through. Each step she took was a muddy one, her feet soaked through that by the time she found her step in to the temple, the slippery surface and her blurred vision meant all it took was one second for Emilia to loose her footing and pitch forward - and watch in horror as her hands hit the ground, and the swath of white fabric she carried fell directly into a large, muddy area where the dirt wasted no time in staining the cloth.
Emilia laughed when Vasia suggested that she may be a better student for the housekeeper of the Antonis houshold. If anyone could get ahold of her old tutors, she was very sure they would give a very different conclusion. There was a reason afterall, why Persephone has had to go through so many tutors who had quit from the job of teaching the young Xanthos princess, and why her father had begun to despair of ever finding a proper husband who would take the princess - not that there was a lack of trying, since Emilia had practically fallen in love with half the men in Athenia.
But still, she tried. She would return home that night with half a dozen pinpricks in her fingers, but let it be said that Emilia of Xanthos was not someone who gave up. With tongue in between teeth, looking at it far too close to be useful, she did her best to work hard in silence as everyone did the same around her, but could only do half as quick as everyone else at best.
Her ears had begun to ring to how hard she focused to try and stitch the pattern of a dove, when the jug of kykeon arrived with the maid. Emilia accepted the refreshment with a grateful smile, beginning to nod in agreement to Vasia's statement when the first fat droplets of rain began to fall upon her skin, the wrath of Zeus clearly felt. Did he not accept the offering they were weaving as a cohesive unit for Athena? Or was Athena herself unhappy, annd this was her sign for it?
Whatever it may be, the first thing they should do was to try and get the pattern out of the rain, and as the other noble ladies picked up their items and tried to make it for shelter to save as much of the work they had done as possible. Emilia herself hugged a swath of fabric to her chest, but the rain blurred her vision, and the frenzy of noble ladies and maids alike meant that Emilia's journey to the shelter of the Naos was stunted at every step, that it did not take long before her own himation was soaked through. Each step she took was a muddy one, her feet soaked through that by the time she found her step in to the temple, the slippery surface and her blurred vision meant all it took was one second for Emilia to loose her footing and pitch forward - and watch in horror as her hands hit the ground, and the swath of white fabric she carried fell directly into a large, muddy area where the dirt wasted no time in staining the cloth.
“Yes,” Hebe replied, smiling at Cyrene. “I am Hebe of Antonis. I know your brother but we hardly ever see each other. I'm not at the house much anymore. I'm Princess Emilia's lady in waiting and I spend most of my time in the palace. I have rooms close to hers.” Sensing that Danae and Cyrene wished to converse alone, she felt bad for interrupting them. “Please excuse me. I see some friends I wish to greet. It was a pleasure to make your acquaintance,” she told Cyrene. “I hope we will see each other again soon.
She said her farewells to Danae and then went to sit with some other young ladies. Sewing was boring and so mindless that it wasn't long before her head was swimming with random snippets of knowledge. She tried to pay attention to her friends but it was impossible. Looking around her didn't help either, though she did wonder what her great-aunt Circenia, her cousin Vasia, and Princess Emilia were talking about. As her gaze traveled to her sisters, she pricked one of her fingers with her needle and immediately stuck it in her mouth.
Standing up, Hebe considered joining Emilia, but decided to go into the temple instead. She loved temples. They were so beautiful and there was an air of awe about them. She wandered over to the statue of Athena and looked up at it. “You'll soon have a lovely himation to adorn yourself with,” she told it. Of course, she knew the goddess wouldn't answer her. Yes, she was young, but she wasn't born yesterday. However, Hebe did believe that Athena could hear her and hoped that she was smiling down on her. The youngest Antonis sister primarily worshiped Aphrodite, but she prayed to all the gods and gave them the respect they were due. Who knew which one of them would be listening when she needed their help getting out of a tight spot?
The only thing she didn't like about temples was the silence. Noticing some priestesses going about their daily tasks, she walked up to them and asked them what they were doing. They were very kind to her and explained their tasks. One of them even let her assist by lighting candles in different parts of the sanctuary. Hebe enjoyed watching the tiny flames flicker and grow and she pretended that she was a priestess herself.
The time passed quickly. When she heard the patter of raindrops upon the roof, she remembered the himation that was being sewn in the courtyard. Hebe moved toward the door just as Princess Circinia rushed in and began barking orders. Hurrying over to her, she asked: How may I help, Your Highness?”
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“Yes,” Hebe replied, smiling at Cyrene. “I am Hebe of Antonis. I know your brother but we hardly ever see each other. I'm not at the house much anymore. I'm Princess Emilia's lady in waiting and I spend most of my time in the palace. I have rooms close to hers.” Sensing that Danae and Cyrene wished to converse alone, she felt bad for interrupting them. “Please excuse me. I see some friends I wish to greet. It was a pleasure to make your acquaintance,” she told Cyrene. “I hope we will see each other again soon.
She said her farewells to Danae and then went to sit with some other young ladies. Sewing was boring and so mindless that it wasn't long before her head was swimming with random snippets of knowledge. She tried to pay attention to her friends but it was impossible. Looking around her didn't help either, though she did wonder what her great-aunt Circenia, her cousin Vasia, and Princess Emilia were talking about. As her gaze traveled to her sisters, she pricked one of her fingers with her needle and immediately stuck it in her mouth.
Standing up, Hebe considered joining Emilia, but decided to go into the temple instead. She loved temples. They were so beautiful and there was an air of awe about them. She wandered over to the statue of Athena and looked up at it. “You'll soon have a lovely himation to adorn yourself with,” she told it. Of course, she knew the goddess wouldn't answer her. Yes, she was young, but she wasn't born yesterday. However, Hebe did believe that Athena could hear her and hoped that she was smiling down on her. The youngest Antonis sister primarily worshiped Aphrodite, but she prayed to all the gods and gave them the respect they were due. Who knew which one of them would be listening when she needed their help getting out of a tight spot?
The only thing she didn't like about temples was the silence. Noticing some priestesses going about their daily tasks, she walked up to them and asked them what they were doing. They were very kind to her and explained their tasks. One of them even let her assist by lighting candles in different parts of the sanctuary. Hebe enjoyed watching the tiny flames flicker and grow and she pretended that she was a priestess herself.
The time passed quickly. When she heard the patter of raindrops upon the roof, she remembered the himation that was being sewn in the courtyard. Hebe moved toward the door just as Princess Circinia rushed in and began barking orders. Hurrying over to her, she asked: How may I help, Your Highness?”
“Yes,” Hebe replied, smiling at Cyrene. “I am Hebe of Antonis. I know your brother but we hardly ever see each other. I'm not at the house much anymore. I'm Princess Emilia's lady in waiting and I spend most of my time in the palace. I have rooms close to hers.” Sensing that Danae and Cyrene wished to converse alone, she felt bad for interrupting them. “Please excuse me. I see some friends I wish to greet. It was a pleasure to make your acquaintance,” she told Cyrene. “I hope we will see each other again soon.
She said her farewells to Danae and then went to sit with some other young ladies. Sewing was boring and so mindless that it wasn't long before her head was swimming with random snippets of knowledge. She tried to pay attention to her friends but it was impossible. Looking around her didn't help either, though she did wonder what her great-aunt Circenia, her cousin Vasia, and Princess Emilia were talking about. As her gaze traveled to her sisters, she pricked one of her fingers with her needle and immediately stuck it in her mouth.
Standing up, Hebe considered joining Emilia, but decided to go into the temple instead. She loved temples. They were so beautiful and there was an air of awe about them. She wandered over to the statue of Athena and looked up at it. “You'll soon have a lovely himation to adorn yourself with,” she told it. Of course, she knew the goddess wouldn't answer her. Yes, she was young, but she wasn't born yesterday. However, Hebe did believe that Athena could hear her and hoped that she was smiling down on her. The youngest Antonis sister primarily worshiped Aphrodite, but she prayed to all the gods and gave them the respect they were due. Who knew which one of them would be listening when she needed their help getting out of a tight spot?
The only thing she didn't like about temples was the silence. Noticing some priestesses going about their daily tasks, she walked up to them and asked them what they were doing. They were very kind to her and explained their tasks. One of them even let her assist by lighting candles in different parts of the sanctuary. Hebe enjoyed watching the tiny flames flicker and grow and she pretended that she was a priestess herself.
The time passed quickly. When she heard the patter of raindrops upon the roof, she remembered the himation that was being sewn in the courtyard. Hebe moved toward the door just as Princess Circinia rushed in and began barking orders. Hurrying over to her, she asked: How may I help, Your Highness?”