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This year had been turmoil from the start, and Diogenes wondered if he would ever be free of the dark colors of mourning that seemed to follow each event. First his dearest and oldest friend, seeing Zenon's head on a pike in the Circus had shaken even the unflappable elder statesman. Then as things finally seemed to settle, the accusation that the man's poor last son had been the one to kill him, and now this death at a wedding. He couldn't pretend to have shed real tears for the loss of Irakles as he had for the elder brother. Zenon had been his dearest friend for as long as he could remember, aside from his brother of course. The luck of being boys close in age and whetting their blades in the same early wars. After the loss of Hallia, then Orphion, the old king's funeral had been the last time he had cried.
Whatever kind of rest Irakles might have finally found had only left more turmoil in the line of Mikaelidas, and though Diogenes would have preferred to see the crown transferred once more to the line of his friend, Achilleas was the best choice they had until Stephanos' name could be cleared and the man returned. If that was possible, if he was even still alive. He wouldn't put it past some of the vipers in court to have him taken care of like his dear friend, and the eldest son. He had reached out to Elise, to see if there was anything he could do to help her in this trying time, the possibility of marrying one of his sons to one of her girls never far from her mind even if he didn't say so outright.
His audience today was with the young Achilleas, the new king who must be going through unimaginable turmoil with his new wife to get used to, his new position, and the loss of his father. The senator waited in the foyer, his garb the dark of mourning but with a flare that was entirely his own. His rings were situated upon each finger, the deep navy chiton he wore trimmed in gold threading and his black himation pinned with a golden Kassotis crest. The fabrics were fine, gilded in his usual fashion in a way he considered understated, though that classification might not fit for everyone who saw him.
As soon as the king was in his eyeline Diogenes gave a low bow before standing upright, arms outstretched to clasp the shoulders of the boy he'd known grown into a man. It wasn't an embrace, but a gesture of support and sympathy.
"Your majesty, I wish we met in better circumstances. Be assured, as my family has always been loyal to Mikaelidas, still Kassotis shall follow the lion."
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This year had been turmoil from the start, and Diogenes wondered if he would ever be free of the dark colors of mourning that seemed to follow each event. First his dearest and oldest friend, seeing Zenon's head on a pike in the Circus had shaken even the unflappable elder statesman. Then as things finally seemed to settle, the accusation that the man's poor last son had been the one to kill him, and now this death at a wedding. He couldn't pretend to have shed real tears for the loss of Irakles as he had for the elder brother. Zenon had been his dearest friend for as long as he could remember, aside from his brother of course. The luck of being boys close in age and whetting their blades in the same early wars. After the loss of Hallia, then Orphion, the old king's funeral had been the last time he had cried.
Whatever kind of rest Irakles might have finally found had only left more turmoil in the line of Mikaelidas, and though Diogenes would have preferred to see the crown transferred once more to the line of his friend, Achilleas was the best choice they had until Stephanos' name could be cleared and the man returned. If that was possible, if he was even still alive. He wouldn't put it past some of the vipers in court to have him taken care of like his dear friend, and the eldest son. He had reached out to Elise, to see if there was anything he could do to help her in this trying time, the possibility of marrying one of his sons to one of her girls never far from her mind even if he didn't say so outright.
His audience today was with the young Achilleas, the new king who must be going through unimaginable turmoil with his new wife to get used to, his new position, and the loss of his father. The senator waited in the foyer, his garb the dark of mourning but with a flare that was entirely his own. His rings were situated upon each finger, the deep navy chiton he wore trimmed in gold threading and his black himation pinned with a golden Kassotis crest. The fabrics were fine, gilded in his usual fashion in a way he considered understated, though that classification might not fit for everyone who saw him.
As soon as the king was in his eyeline Diogenes gave a low bow before standing upright, arms outstretched to clasp the shoulders of the boy he'd known grown into a man. It wasn't an embrace, but a gesture of support and sympathy.
"Your majesty, I wish we met in better circumstances. Be assured, as my family has always been loyal to Mikaelidas, still Kassotis shall follow the lion."
This year had been turmoil from the start, and Diogenes wondered if he would ever be free of the dark colors of mourning that seemed to follow each event. First his dearest and oldest friend, seeing Zenon's head on a pike in the Circus had shaken even the unflappable elder statesman. Then as things finally seemed to settle, the accusation that the man's poor last son had been the one to kill him, and now this death at a wedding. He couldn't pretend to have shed real tears for the loss of Irakles as he had for the elder brother. Zenon had been his dearest friend for as long as he could remember, aside from his brother of course. The luck of being boys close in age and whetting their blades in the same early wars. After the loss of Hallia, then Orphion, the old king's funeral had been the last time he had cried.
Whatever kind of rest Irakles might have finally found had only left more turmoil in the line of Mikaelidas, and though Diogenes would have preferred to see the crown transferred once more to the line of his friend, Achilleas was the best choice they had until Stephanos' name could be cleared and the man returned. If that was possible, if he was even still alive. He wouldn't put it past some of the vipers in court to have him taken care of like his dear friend, and the eldest son. He had reached out to Elise, to see if there was anything he could do to help her in this trying time, the possibility of marrying one of his sons to one of her girls never far from her mind even if he didn't say so outright.
His audience today was with the young Achilleas, the new king who must be going through unimaginable turmoil with his new wife to get used to, his new position, and the loss of his father. The senator waited in the foyer, his garb the dark of mourning but with a flare that was entirely his own. His rings were situated upon each finger, the deep navy chiton he wore trimmed in gold threading and his black himation pinned with a golden Kassotis crest. The fabrics were fine, gilded in his usual fashion in a way he considered understated, though that classification might not fit for everyone who saw him.
As soon as the king was in his eyeline Diogenes gave a low bow before standing upright, arms outstretched to clasp the shoulders of the boy he'd known grown into a man. It wasn't an embrace, but a gesture of support and sympathy.
"Your majesty, I wish we met in better circumstances. Be assured, as my family has always been loyal to Mikaelidas, still Kassotis shall follow the lion."
It had been a long and tiresome day. As well as dealing with the preparations for departure to Egypt, Achilleas had spent a good portion of the morning discussing defence for Taengea’s shores. It would be stupid and arrogant not to consider that his own mission might fail and if that were to happen then there needed to be measures to protect the island which would be the first reached by any Egyptian ships. Much as he knew he needed to be planned for, it was a disconcerting thing to do, knowing that should such plans ever have to be enacted, it would likely mean he would already have crossed the river.
Then Achilleas had received the Head of House Condos, a meeting which he had been eager to see done because he needed to be assured that the crown could still count on the House's support, despite the idiocy of Nikolias’ son. That had been a...less satisfying meeting than he had hoped and he was second-guessing himself, wondering if perhaps he had been too dismissive of Nikolias’ concerns even as his next meeting was announced.
It seemed as if there were barely time to draw breath between receiving those who wanted to make well wishes or pass on their condolences - or both as some did, given the discordant fact that he was both newly married, newly King and newly bereaved - and Achilleas sighed and set down his stylus, he’d lost his train of thought anyway. As the steward, a man he didn’t know well, informed him that it was the Head of Kassotis House that was awaiting entry, he at least took some comfort in the fact that the Lord Diogenes was generally a genial man. Perhaps this meeting would not be so much hard work as the last. He was tired of being stuck in the room he was in, and so the King shook his head at the question as to whether the Kassotis Baron should be announced, instead standing and walking through to the grand foyer where the man waited. Unusual perhaps, and outside of protocol but Achilleas thought he might go mad if he were to sit in the same place any longer.
As he entered, the steward bustling along behind him looking most perturbed, Achilleas gave a nod of his head in return to the Lord Diogenes low bow, an action that still felt odd to him. All his life, the man before him would have been afforded a more deferential greeting, and yet now it was Achilleas who accepted those formalities.
He was glad then when Lord Diogenes moved them past that, the younger man’s shoulders a little rigid under the other’s hands, but his smile real even if it was not quite enough to chase the fatigue from his expression. He briefly grasped the man’s arm before stepping away and beginning to walk through the foyer, not toward the throne room or even the solar rooms but towards the gardens.
“Well met my Lord. Thank you for your assurances. I hope you do not mind, but I have been kept inside all this fine morning. What say you to a walk in the grounds as we talk?”
When Lord Diogenes took no exception to the idea, the Mikaelidas man led them through the hallways to where the palati itself gave way to the green lawns and gardens that surrounded it. And once they were outside, there was no missing the long breath the young king drew in, and the relief that seemed to come on the exhale.
With a glance over his shoulder to ensure they were out of earshot of the palace staff, Achilleas smiled fleetingly. “You will forgive me. There are only so many hours I can bear behind a desk, and you offered me a brief chance to escape.”
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It had been a long and tiresome day. As well as dealing with the preparations for departure to Egypt, Achilleas had spent a good portion of the morning discussing defence for Taengea’s shores. It would be stupid and arrogant not to consider that his own mission might fail and if that were to happen then there needed to be measures to protect the island which would be the first reached by any Egyptian ships. Much as he knew he needed to be planned for, it was a disconcerting thing to do, knowing that should such plans ever have to be enacted, it would likely mean he would already have crossed the river.
Then Achilleas had received the Head of House Condos, a meeting which he had been eager to see done because he needed to be assured that the crown could still count on the House's support, despite the idiocy of Nikolias’ son. That had been a...less satisfying meeting than he had hoped and he was second-guessing himself, wondering if perhaps he had been too dismissive of Nikolias’ concerns even as his next meeting was announced.
It seemed as if there were barely time to draw breath between receiving those who wanted to make well wishes or pass on their condolences - or both as some did, given the discordant fact that he was both newly married, newly King and newly bereaved - and Achilleas sighed and set down his stylus, he’d lost his train of thought anyway. As the steward, a man he didn’t know well, informed him that it was the Head of Kassotis House that was awaiting entry, he at least took some comfort in the fact that the Lord Diogenes was generally a genial man. Perhaps this meeting would not be so much hard work as the last. He was tired of being stuck in the room he was in, and so the King shook his head at the question as to whether the Kassotis Baron should be announced, instead standing and walking through to the grand foyer where the man waited. Unusual perhaps, and outside of protocol but Achilleas thought he might go mad if he were to sit in the same place any longer.
As he entered, the steward bustling along behind him looking most perturbed, Achilleas gave a nod of his head in return to the Lord Diogenes low bow, an action that still felt odd to him. All his life, the man before him would have been afforded a more deferential greeting, and yet now it was Achilleas who accepted those formalities.
He was glad then when Lord Diogenes moved them past that, the younger man’s shoulders a little rigid under the other’s hands, but his smile real even if it was not quite enough to chase the fatigue from his expression. He briefly grasped the man’s arm before stepping away and beginning to walk through the foyer, not toward the throne room or even the solar rooms but towards the gardens.
“Well met my Lord. Thank you for your assurances. I hope you do not mind, but I have been kept inside all this fine morning. What say you to a walk in the grounds as we talk?”
When Lord Diogenes took no exception to the idea, the Mikaelidas man led them through the hallways to where the palati itself gave way to the green lawns and gardens that surrounded it. And once they were outside, there was no missing the long breath the young king drew in, and the relief that seemed to come on the exhale.
With a glance over his shoulder to ensure they were out of earshot of the palace staff, Achilleas smiled fleetingly. “You will forgive me. There are only so many hours I can bear behind a desk, and you offered me a brief chance to escape.”
It had been a long and tiresome day. As well as dealing with the preparations for departure to Egypt, Achilleas had spent a good portion of the morning discussing defence for Taengea’s shores. It would be stupid and arrogant not to consider that his own mission might fail and if that were to happen then there needed to be measures to protect the island which would be the first reached by any Egyptian ships. Much as he knew he needed to be planned for, it was a disconcerting thing to do, knowing that should such plans ever have to be enacted, it would likely mean he would already have crossed the river.
Then Achilleas had received the Head of House Condos, a meeting which he had been eager to see done because he needed to be assured that the crown could still count on the House's support, despite the idiocy of Nikolias’ son. That had been a...less satisfying meeting than he had hoped and he was second-guessing himself, wondering if perhaps he had been too dismissive of Nikolias’ concerns even as his next meeting was announced.
It seemed as if there were barely time to draw breath between receiving those who wanted to make well wishes or pass on their condolences - or both as some did, given the discordant fact that he was both newly married, newly King and newly bereaved - and Achilleas sighed and set down his stylus, he’d lost his train of thought anyway. As the steward, a man he didn’t know well, informed him that it was the Head of Kassotis House that was awaiting entry, he at least took some comfort in the fact that the Lord Diogenes was generally a genial man. Perhaps this meeting would not be so much hard work as the last. He was tired of being stuck in the room he was in, and so the King shook his head at the question as to whether the Kassotis Baron should be announced, instead standing and walking through to the grand foyer where the man waited. Unusual perhaps, and outside of protocol but Achilleas thought he might go mad if he were to sit in the same place any longer.
As he entered, the steward bustling along behind him looking most perturbed, Achilleas gave a nod of his head in return to the Lord Diogenes low bow, an action that still felt odd to him. All his life, the man before him would have been afforded a more deferential greeting, and yet now it was Achilleas who accepted those formalities.
He was glad then when Lord Diogenes moved them past that, the younger man’s shoulders a little rigid under the other’s hands, but his smile real even if it was not quite enough to chase the fatigue from his expression. He briefly grasped the man’s arm before stepping away and beginning to walk through the foyer, not toward the throne room or even the solar rooms but towards the gardens.
“Well met my Lord. Thank you for your assurances. I hope you do not mind, but I have been kept inside all this fine morning. What say you to a walk in the grounds as we talk?”
When Lord Diogenes took no exception to the idea, the Mikaelidas man led them through the hallways to where the palati itself gave way to the green lawns and gardens that surrounded it. And once they were outside, there was no missing the long breath the young king drew in, and the relief that seemed to come on the exhale.
With a glance over his shoulder to ensure they were out of earshot of the palace staff, Achilleas smiled fleetingly. “You will forgive me. There are only so many hours I can bear behind a desk, and you offered me a brief chance to escape.”
The loss of a father was never easy in a young man's life, no matter the relationship the two had. Diogenes had wept over the death of his own father, unashamedly wishing he'd had more time while still filled with the excitement of having the barony in his own hands instead. Achilleas had been caught in a most unfortunate situation. The loss of the father in the same breath as the beginning of his marriage, a crown suddenly his that may or may not belong depending on who was asked, and now this war that was set to take him from the shores before his honeymoon should even properly be over. It was not a position Diogenes envied in the slightest.
Smiling warmly the baron shook his head, hands clasped behind his back as they walked. A turn around the gardens of the Mikaelidas palace were beautiful in every season, and Diogenes had been attempting to replicate something just as beautiful if not more so in his own home. Any chance to take a look and see what plants had been added and what he had over them was a welcome one even when they had to also discuss business.
"Of course, your majesty. I do enjoy a good walk." It was obvious when the younger man's frame finally relaxed a bit, a sympathetic expression on the elder's face as he took a deep breath of his own. They were here to discuss the state of things, but he was happy to remain quiet as long as Achilleas needed to feel a bit more at ease. The stress of taking on a kingdom was something he couldn't imagine, though he had planned quite a number of parties that could have rivaled the royal wedding and coronation alike if he did say so himself. Which he did.
"No forgiveness is required, I understand entirely. I am blessed that I have my brother's constant assistance in managing Argothia, between the two of us we are able to take our breaks from the desk when required. It is a shame you are not able to do the same, though I imagine his highness Prince Emilios will be getting his taste as you lead the men south?" Unless Achilleas had been foolish enough to name his wife the regent in his absence. He wouldn't put it past a Leventi girl to try to finagle that, but with a perfectly capable younger brother and no heir Emilios made perfect sense as a regent choice.
"My men are ready, they should be here to join your contingent to Egypt shortly. I only wish I was able to go with you, one feels quite useless when one becomes too old to go into battle. Quite....irrelevant." Diogenes chuckled, not at all sorry that he couldn't go fight, but sad to be missing out on time in Egypt to explore. He was sure there would be some fabulous items in the bazaars, but war was hardly as enjoyable as a trinket hunting tour.
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The loss of a father was never easy in a young man's life, no matter the relationship the two had. Diogenes had wept over the death of his own father, unashamedly wishing he'd had more time while still filled with the excitement of having the barony in his own hands instead. Achilleas had been caught in a most unfortunate situation. The loss of the father in the same breath as the beginning of his marriage, a crown suddenly his that may or may not belong depending on who was asked, and now this war that was set to take him from the shores before his honeymoon should even properly be over. It was not a position Diogenes envied in the slightest.
Smiling warmly the baron shook his head, hands clasped behind his back as they walked. A turn around the gardens of the Mikaelidas palace were beautiful in every season, and Diogenes had been attempting to replicate something just as beautiful if not more so in his own home. Any chance to take a look and see what plants had been added and what he had over them was a welcome one even when they had to also discuss business.
"Of course, your majesty. I do enjoy a good walk." It was obvious when the younger man's frame finally relaxed a bit, a sympathetic expression on the elder's face as he took a deep breath of his own. They were here to discuss the state of things, but he was happy to remain quiet as long as Achilleas needed to feel a bit more at ease. The stress of taking on a kingdom was something he couldn't imagine, though he had planned quite a number of parties that could have rivaled the royal wedding and coronation alike if he did say so himself. Which he did.
"No forgiveness is required, I understand entirely. I am blessed that I have my brother's constant assistance in managing Argothia, between the two of us we are able to take our breaks from the desk when required. It is a shame you are not able to do the same, though I imagine his highness Prince Emilios will be getting his taste as you lead the men south?" Unless Achilleas had been foolish enough to name his wife the regent in his absence. He wouldn't put it past a Leventi girl to try to finagle that, but with a perfectly capable younger brother and no heir Emilios made perfect sense as a regent choice.
"My men are ready, they should be here to join your contingent to Egypt shortly. I only wish I was able to go with you, one feels quite useless when one becomes too old to go into battle. Quite....irrelevant." Diogenes chuckled, not at all sorry that he couldn't go fight, but sad to be missing out on time in Egypt to explore. He was sure there would be some fabulous items in the bazaars, but war was hardly as enjoyable as a trinket hunting tour.
The loss of a father was never easy in a young man's life, no matter the relationship the two had. Diogenes had wept over the death of his own father, unashamedly wishing he'd had more time while still filled with the excitement of having the barony in his own hands instead. Achilleas had been caught in a most unfortunate situation. The loss of the father in the same breath as the beginning of his marriage, a crown suddenly his that may or may not belong depending on who was asked, and now this war that was set to take him from the shores before his honeymoon should even properly be over. It was not a position Diogenes envied in the slightest.
Smiling warmly the baron shook his head, hands clasped behind his back as they walked. A turn around the gardens of the Mikaelidas palace were beautiful in every season, and Diogenes had been attempting to replicate something just as beautiful if not more so in his own home. Any chance to take a look and see what plants had been added and what he had over them was a welcome one even when they had to also discuss business.
"Of course, your majesty. I do enjoy a good walk." It was obvious when the younger man's frame finally relaxed a bit, a sympathetic expression on the elder's face as he took a deep breath of his own. They were here to discuss the state of things, but he was happy to remain quiet as long as Achilleas needed to feel a bit more at ease. The stress of taking on a kingdom was something he couldn't imagine, though he had planned quite a number of parties that could have rivaled the royal wedding and coronation alike if he did say so himself. Which he did.
"No forgiveness is required, I understand entirely. I am blessed that I have my brother's constant assistance in managing Argothia, between the two of us we are able to take our breaks from the desk when required. It is a shame you are not able to do the same, though I imagine his highness Prince Emilios will be getting his taste as you lead the men south?" Unless Achilleas had been foolish enough to name his wife the regent in his absence. He wouldn't put it past a Leventi girl to try to finagle that, but with a perfectly capable younger brother and no heir Emilios made perfect sense as a regent choice.
"My men are ready, they should be here to join your contingent to Egypt shortly. I only wish I was able to go with you, one feels quite useless when one becomes too old to go into battle. Quite....irrelevant." Diogenes chuckled, not at all sorry that he couldn't go fight, but sad to be missing out on time in Egypt to explore. He was sure there would be some fabulous items in the bazaars, but war was hardly as enjoyable as a trinket hunting tour.
Achilleas sent the man a side-long glance, and another of those brief, polished smiles as the other enquired as to his plans for managing the kingdom when war took him from its shores. “My brother, yes.” He kept an attentive gaze on Lord Diogenes then, because his one worry in leaving Emilios in charge was that the other was so untested in any of this. For Achilleas himself, a baron for half his life, the matter of absolute responsibility was a daunting one. For his brother, a man who barely bothered to show up for court sessions and had who he honestly didn’t think had considered taxes for one minute of his years; it would be a trial by fire to be sure. And if he were to make a success of his stewardship? He would need the support and guidance of those who knew more about what they were about.
“I am sure he will welcome your counsel if you are gracious enough to give it..” Achilleas said, testing the water. He wasn’t sure his brother would thank him for it, but then Emilios did not know what he was stepping in to. Lord Diogenes had been in Zenon’s trust, had been a familiar figure in his childhood and then beyond and that spoke well enough to his character for the new King, even if he were a little...flamboyant for Achilleas’ comfort at times. The younger man clasped his hands behind his back as they walked, led the Kassotis baron through the herbaceous garden, designed as it was to allow the fragrance to permeate the solar rooms that opened to the formal gardens. Thyme, Mint and Rosemary were those more hardy who offered up their sweet green aroma now, carried by the fresh breeze off the Aegean.
It was the older man who brought one of, the more pressing topics to bear, Achilleas giving a nod at the pledge from the baron regarding forces. He raised a brow at the man’s complaints of feeling useless, giving a small shake of his head as they walked. “Wisdom gleaned over your years is more useful there than in Egypt” he corrected. “And my endeavours do not need vast numbers; our hopes are to act quickly and decisively to set the tone for this conflict before it is begun.”
Of course, that was the intent though the king knew better than to assume things could not and would not change. There were contingencies in place, the man’s own son one of those slanted to sail with a supporting force should things not go as planned. Unsure if Esdras had spoken to his father of it yet, Achilleas said nothing, but he drew a breath and felt the responsibility - as he always did - of leading so many sons away from fathers, husbands from wives.
The field of battle and warcraft was one place he felt more than comfortable, did not doubt himself, and he clung to that. If this initial mission paid its dues, then the balance in this war would be turned in their favour, and Taengea at least would not be at risk of war being brought to her shores. Those he would leave behind would be protected.
“ If the gods are with us, I should be gone weeks rather than months. I know there are those amongst the senate who think I am wrong to go” What was it the Lord Condos has said…glory hunting? Achilleas looked to the Kassotis baron to see if he could read a similar sentiment from those quarters.
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Achilleas sent the man a side-long glance, and another of those brief, polished smiles as the other enquired as to his plans for managing the kingdom when war took him from its shores. “My brother, yes.” He kept an attentive gaze on Lord Diogenes then, because his one worry in leaving Emilios in charge was that the other was so untested in any of this. For Achilleas himself, a baron for half his life, the matter of absolute responsibility was a daunting one. For his brother, a man who barely bothered to show up for court sessions and had who he honestly didn’t think had considered taxes for one minute of his years; it would be a trial by fire to be sure. And if he were to make a success of his stewardship? He would need the support and guidance of those who knew more about what they were about.
“I am sure he will welcome your counsel if you are gracious enough to give it..” Achilleas said, testing the water. He wasn’t sure his brother would thank him for it, but then Emilios did not know what he was stepping in to. Lord Diogenes had been in Zenon’s trust, had been a familiar figure in his childhood and then beyond and that spoke well enough to his character for the new King, even if he were a little...flamboyant for Achilleas’ comfort at times. The younger man clasped his hands behind his back as they walked, led the Kassotis baron through the herbaceous garden, designed as it was to allow the fragrance to permeate the solar rooms that opened to the formal gardens. Thyme, Mint and Rosemary were those more hardy who offered up their sweet green aroma now, carried by the fresh breeze off the Aegean.
It was the older man who brought one of, the more pressing topics to bear, Achilleas giving a nod at the pledge from the baron regarding forces. He raised a brow at the man’s complaints of feeling useless, giving a small shake of his head as they walked. “Wisdom gleaned over your years is more useful there than in Egypt” he corrected. “And my endeavours do not need vast numbers; our hopes are to act quickly and decisively to set the tone for this conflict before it is begun.”
Of course, that was the intent though the king knew better than to assume things could not and would not change. There were contingencies in place, the man’s own son one of those slanted to sail with a supporting force should things not go as planned. Unsure if Esdras had spoken to his father of it yet, Achilleas said nothing, but he drew a breath and felt the responsibility - as he always did - of leading so many sons away from fathers, husbands from wives.
The field of battle and warcraft was one place he felt more than comfortable, did not doubt himself, and he clung to that. If this initial mission paid its dues, then the balance in this war would be turned in their favour, and Taengea at least would not be at risk of war being brought to her shores. Those he would leave behind would be protected.
“ If the gods are with us, I should be gone weeks rather than months. I know there are those amongst the senate who think I am wrong to go” What was it the Lord Condos has said…glory hunting? Achilleas looked to the Kassotis baron to see if he could read a similar sentiment from those quarters.
Achilleas sent the man a side-long glance, and another of those brief, polished smiles as the other enquired as to his plans for managing the kingdom when war took him from its shores. “My brother, yes.” He kept an attentive gaze on Lord Diogenes then, because his one worry in leaving Emilios in charge was that the other was so untested in any of this. For Achilleas himself, a baron for half his life, the matter of absolute responsibility was a daunting one. For his brother, a man who barely bothered to show up for court sessions and had who he honestly didn’t think had considered taxes for one minute of his years; it would be a trial by fire to be sure. And if he were to make a success of his stewardship? He would need the support and guidance of those who knew more about what they were about.
“I am sure he will welcome your counsel if you are gracious enough to give it..” Achilleas said, testing the water. He wasn’t sure his brother would thank him for it, but then Emilios did not know what he was stepping in to. Lord Diogenes had been in Zenon’s trust, had been a familiar figure in his childhood and then beyond and that spoke well enough to his character for the new King, even if he were a little...flamboyant for Achilleas’ comfort at times. The younger man clasped his hands behind his back as they walked, led the Kassotis baron through the herbaceous garden, designed as it was to allow the fragrance to permeate the solar rooms that opened to the formal gardens. Thyme, Mint and Rosemary were those more hardy who offered up their sweet green aroma now, carried by the fresh breeze off the Aegean.
It was the older man who brought one of, the more pressing topics to bear, Achilleas giving a nod at the pledge from the baron regarding forces. He raised a brow at the man’s complaints of feeling useless, giving a small shake of his head as they walked. “Wisdom gleaned over your years is more useful there than in Egypt” he corrected. “And my endeavours do not need vast numbers; our hopes are to act quickly and decisively to set the tone for this conflict before it is begun.”
Of course, that was the intent though the king knew better than to assume things could not and would not change. There were contingencies in place, the man’s own son one of those slanted to sail with a supporting force should things not go as planned. Unsure if Esdras had spoken to his father of it yet, Achilleas said nothing, but he drew a breath and felt the responsibility - as he always did - of leading so many sons away from fathers, husbands from wives.
The field of battle and warcraft was one place he felt more than comfortable, did not doubt himself, and he clung to that. If this initial mission paid its dues, then the balance in this war would be turned in their favour, and Taengea at least would not be at risk of war being brought to her shores. Those he would leave behind would be protected.
“ If the gods are with us, I should be gone weeks rather than months. I know there are those amongst the senate who think I am wrong to go” What was it the Lord Condos has said…glory hunting? Achilleas looked to the Kassotis baron to see if he could read a similar sentiment from those quarters.
Diogenes gave a soft hum, acknowledging the king's confirmation that his younger brother would be left behind as the regent. It unsettled the older man that so quickly after his ascension to the throne that the king would be departing. The rate their country was going through kings this year it was a great fear that Achilleas would leave and end with the unmarried Emilios as his heir. If something were to happen to that final son of Mikaelidas, he shuddered to think what might happen. Perhaps if Stephanos could be located, he and his line could be restored, or worst case scenario the Condos family would get what their smug hearts desired. It had crossed his mind more than once that perhaps the Condos were somehow part of the sudden losses of the Mikaelidas.
"I shall make myself available for any queries he might have, your majesty. It would be my honor to serve the Mikaelidas dynasty in anyway I can."
The words might have sounded flowery, as only his speech could, but there was a warmth and honesty to it he hoped was not lost. From Zenon on, the only Mikaelidas he'd harbored any ill will for had been Irakles, and only because of how the man had treated his poor nephew after the loss of his father and brother. He hoped that when Achilleas returned, and hoped that it would be soon, some semblance of peace would be restored to the country. He'd never felt quite so old as when having to deal with the political matters and changes that had taken place over the short span of this year.
"You flatter me, your majesty. I am happy to serve here at home as I can. We shall all pray that you are correct, and your absence will be mere weeks." Even as he said it he doubted such a thing would come to pass. He remembered the war from a decade ago, the final conflict he'd taken part in though he had not been put into the action himself. The Egyptians were not to be underestimated, a foe that especially when the battle was brought to them, had the ability to steal victory from even the most confident of generals.
There was a moment in which he considered simply brushing off the comment about glory hunting, something he did not think Achilleas capable of. It would be a lie, however, if he did not say what he was thinking and supported a false narrative. He had known the man beside him since his childhood, and hoped that though they had never been the most intimate of friends he would still understand that his words came from a respectful place.
"I will not give out false assurances. This year has been one of the most trying in our country's history of late as you have sadly witnessed firsthand. The loss of so many kings in quick succession is difficult for even the most solid of monarchies." Diogenes turned to meet the king's gaze, his own honest and as solemn as he could be. "If my advice had been sought, I might have counselled that it was wiser to send the younger brother to war, while the elder remained here to solidify his position as king and husband. But I also know the benefits of a king leading his army to battle. The men will look up to and respect you if you lead them well there, and their loyalty will preserve your reign."
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Diogenes gave a soft hum, acknowledging the king's confirmation that his younger brother would be left behind as the regent. It unsettled the older man that so quickly after his ascension to the throne that the king would be departing. The rate their country was going through kings this year it was a great fear that Achilleas would leave and end with the unmarried Emilios as his heir. If something were to happen to that final son of Mikaelidas, he shuddered to think what might happen. Perhaps if Stephanos could be located, he and his line could be restored, or worst case scenario the Condos family would get what their smug hearts desired. It had crossed his mind more than once that perhaps the Condos were somehow part of the sudden losses of the Mikaelidas.
"I shall make myself available for any queries he might have, your majesty. It would be my honor to serve the Mikaelidas dynasty in anyway I can."
The words might have sounded flowery, as only his speech could, but there was a warmth and honesty to it he hoped was not lost. From Zenon on, the only Mikaelidas he'd harbored any ill will for had been Irakles, and only because of how the man had treated his poor nephew after the loss of his father and brother. He hoped that when Achilleas returned, and hoped that it would be soon, some semblance of peace would be restored to the country. He'd never felt quite so old as when having to deal with the political matters and changes that had taken place over the short span of this year.
"You flatter me, your majesty. I am happy to serve here at home as I can. We shall all pray that you are correct, and your absence will be mere weeks." Even as he said it he doubted such a thing would come to pass. He remembered the war from a decade ago, the final conflict he'd taken part in though he had not been put into the action himself. The Egyptians were not to be underestimated, a foe that especially when the battle was brought to them, had the ability to steal victory from even the most confident of generals.
There was a moment in which he considered simply brushing off the comment about glory hunting, something he did not think Achilleas capable of. It would be a lie, however, if he did not say what he was thinking and supported a false narrative. He had known the man beside him since his childhood, and hoped that though they had never been the most intimate of friends he would still understand that his words came from a respectful place.
"I will not give out false assurances. This year has been one of the most trying in our country's history of late as you have sadly witnessed firsthand. The loss of so many kings in quick succession is difficult for even the most solid of monarchies." Diogenes turned to meet the king's gaze, his own honest and as solemn as he could be. "If my advice had been sought, I might have counselled that it was wiser to send the younger brother to war, while the elder remained here to solidify his position as king and husband. But I also know the benefits of a king leading his army to battle. The men will look up to and respect you if you lead them well there, and their loyalty will preserve your reign."
Diogenes gave a soft hum, acknowledging the king's confirmation that his younger brother would be left behind as the regent. It unsettled the older man that so quickly after his ascension to the throne that the king would be departing. The rate their country was going through kings this year it was a great fear that Achilleas would leave and end with the unmarried Emilios as his heir. If something were to happen to that final son of Mikaelidas, he shuddered to think what might happen. Perhaps if Stephanos could be located, he and his line could be restored, or worst case scenario the Condos family would get what their smug hearts desired. It had crossed his mind more than once that perhaps the Condos were somehow part of the sudden losses of the Mikaelidas.
"I shall make myself available for any queries he might have, your majesty. It would be my honor to serve the Mikaelidas dynasty in anyway I can."
The words might have sounded flowery, as only his speech could, but there was a warmth and honesty to it he hoped was not lost. From Zenon on, the only Mikaelidas he'd harbored any ill will for had been Irakles, and only because of how the man had treated his poor nephew after the loss of his father and brother. He hoped that when Achilleas returned, and hoped that it would be soon, some semblance of peace would be restored to the country. He'd never felt quite so old as when having to deal with the political matters and changes that had taken place over the short span of this year.
"You flatter me, your majesty. I am happy to serve here at home as I can. We shall all pray that you are correct, and your absence will be mere weeks." Even as he said it he doubted such a thing would come to pass. He remembered the war from a decade ago, the final conflict he'd taken part in though he had not been put into the action himself. The Egyptians were not to be underestimated, a foe that especially when the battle was brought to them, had the ability to steal victory from even the most confident of generals.
There was a moment in which he considered simply brushing off the comment about glory hunting, something he did not think Achilleas capable of. It would be a lie, however, if he did not say what he was thinking and supported a false narrative. He had known the man beside him since his childhood, and hoped that though they had never been the most intimate of friends he would still understand that his words came from a respectful place.
"I will not give out false assurances. This year has been one of the most trying in our country's history of late as you have sadly witnessed firsthand. The loss of so many kings in quick succession is difficult for even the most solid of monarchies." Diogenes turned to meet the king's gaze, his own honest and as solemn as he could be. "If my advice had been sought, I might have counselled that it was wiser to send the younger brother to war, while the elder remained here to solidify his position as king and husband. But I also know the benefits of a king leading his army to battle. The men will look up to and respect you if you lead them well there, and their loyalty will preserve your reign."
It was some small comfort that Emilios would have the liked of the Kassotis baron and their cousin Lord Gavriil to aid him when Achilleas could not. He would have thought Fotios a good man to have at his brother’s side but since learning of the arrangement made between their father and the man, Emilios certainly did not trust him, and Achilleas was finding it more difficult to as well. He had not raised it with the Leventi lord, and there was nothing the new king could fault him for - in-person he had been nothing but a useful ally - but still, it rankled that he had gone along with the arrangement at all. With a small nod of thanks, Achilleas let the subject lie though. It would all depend on Emilios being willing to seek counsel and he hoped his younger brother would not let pride prevent him from doing so.
It was the king’s own pride that he had to check in the next moment though when the Kassotis lord opted to speak frankly. Achilleas’ pace slowed a fraction, a furrow between his brows as he listened attentively to the other’s words. He could hardly deny any of what Lord Diogenes said to begin with - that their kingdom had been shaken over the past months. His Uncle’s brutal murder at the hand of the Creed; his cousin Zacharias not even afforded the dignity of a burial. And then with those wounds still raw, the mess with Stephanos that had seen him named a traitor. Achilleas’ gaze dropped to his feet; that had been a topic of conversation in the past days, and he was still troubled by the notion that people might think he beleived the words spoken against his cousin, that the suspicion that some cast upon his father would be thrown over him too.
Seeing Lord Diogenes turn in his peripheral, the newest of Taengean’s kings raised his eyes to meet the earnest expression of the older man and he steeled himself for the next. He valued honesty, always had, but the past days had left their mark upon the Mikaelidas lord so for a flicker he wished someone would give him some false assurances. Surely they would hurt less as they fell? Still, he gave a smile encouraging smile so as to bid the man proceed, turning his gaze forward as he listened.
The thought had occurred to him and had been debated at length, and if Achilleas were being brutally honest with himself, perhaps there had been a part of him that wished to do something he knew he was good at. He weathered the mildly stated criticism because there was merit in Diogenes idea, it was why it had been considered. Emilios was a capable Commander.
But Achilleas was too, and more than than, he thought it sent a stronger message to the Egyptians. If he, as newly crowned king, had hidden away at home whilst others answered the threat the sand rats offered with their declaration of war then it would have spoken more to a country unsure of itself, and ripe for the taking. More than anything he thought Taengea needed to prove itself strong and acting aggressively and without hesitation was the easiest way to send that message.
“I appreciate your candour my lord” Achilleas responded after a moments pause when Diogenes had finished speaking. “And I confess to you, I had considered that option too. But I could not rest easy nor feel I was doing right by Taengea to hide away here whilst others take our fight to the Egyptians. Nor could I ask our allies for their aid whilst I myself sat safely upon the throne. I hope you can understand that?”
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It was some small comfort that Emilios would have the liked of the Kassotis baron and their cousin Lord Gavriil to aid him when Achilleas could not. He would have thought Fotios a good man to have at his brother’s side but since learning of the arrangement made between their father and the man, Emilios certainly did not trust him, and Achilleas was finding it more difficult to as well. He had not raised it with the Leventi lord, and there was nothing the new king could fault him for - in-person he had been nothing but a useful ally - but still, it rankled that he had gone along with the arrangement at all. With a small nod of thanks, Achilleas let the subject lie though. It would all depend on Emilios being willing to seek counsel and he hoped his younger brother would not let pride prevent him from doing so.
It was the king’s own pride that he had to check in the next moment though when the Kassotis lord opted to speak frankly. Achilleas’ pace slowed a fraction, a furrow between his brows as he listened attentively to the other’s words. He could hardly deny any of what Lord Diogenes said to begin with - that their kingdom had been shaken over the past months. His Uncle’s brutal murder at the hand of the Creed; his cousin Zacharias not even afforded the dignity of a burial. And then with those wounds still raw, the mess with Stephanos that had seen him named a traitor. Achilleas’ gaze dropped to his feet; that had been a topic of conversation in the past days, and he was still troubled by the notion that people might think he beleived the words spoken against his cousin, that the suspicion that some cast upon his father would be thrown over him too.
Seeing Lord Diogenes turn in his peripheral, the newest of Taengean’s kings raised his eyes to meet the earnest expression of the older man and he steeled himself for the next. He valued honesty, always had, but the past days had left their mark upon the Mikaelidas lord so for a flicker he wished someone would give him some false assurances. Surely they would hurt less as they fell? Still, he gave a smile encouraging smile so as to bid the man proceed, turning his gaze forward as he listened.
The thought had occurred to him and had been debated at length, and if Achilleas were being brutally honest with himself, perhaps there had been a part of him that wished to do something he knew he was good at. He weathered the mildly stated criticism because there was merit in Diogenes idea, it was why it had been considered. Emilios was a capable Commander.
But Achilleas was too, and more than than, he thought it sent a stronger message to the Egyptians. If he, as newly crowned king, had hidden away at home whilst others answered the threat the sand rats offered with their declaration of war then it would have spoken more to a country unsure of itself, and ripe for the taking. More than anything he thought Taengea needed to prove itself strong and acting aggressively and without hesitation was the easiest way to send that message.
“I appreciate your candour my lord” Achilleas responded after a moments pause when Diogenes had finished speaking. “And I confess to you, I had considered that option too. But I could not rest easy nor feel I was doing right by Taengea to hide away here whilst others take our fight to the Egyptians. Nor could I ask our allies for their aid whilst I myself sat safely upon the throne. I hope you can understand that?”
It was some small comfort that Emilios would have the liked of the Kassotis baron and their cousin Lord Gavriil to aid him when Achilleas could not. He would have thought Fotios a good man to have at his brother’s side but since learning of the arrangement made between their father and the man, Emilios certainly did not trust him, and Achilleas was finding it more difficult to as well. He had not raised it with the Leventi lord, and there was nothing the new king could fault him for - in-person he had been nothing but a useful ally - but still, it rankled that he had gone along with the arrangement at all. With a small nod of thanks, Achilleas let the subject lie though. It would all depend on Emilios being willing to seek counsel and he hoped his younger brother would not let pride prevent him from doing so.
It was the king’s own pride that he had to check in the next moment though when the Kassotis lord opted to speak frankly. Achilleas’ pace slowed a fraction, a furrow between his brows as he listened attentively to the other’s words. He could hardly deny any of what Lord Diogenes said to begin with - that their kingdom had been shaken over the past months. His Uncle’s brutal murder at the hand of the Creed; his cousin Zacharias not even afforded the dignity of a burial. And then with those wounds still raw, the mess with Stephanos that had seen him named a traitor. Achilleas’ gaze dropped to his feet; that had been a topic of conversation in the past days, and he was still troubled by the notion that people might think he beleived the words spoken against his cousin, that the suspicion that some cast upon his father would be thrown over him too.
Seeing Lord Diogenes turn in his peripheral, the newest of Taengean’s kings raised his eyes to meet the earnest expression of the older man and he steeled himself for the next. He valued honesty, always had, but the past days had left their mark upon the Mikaelidas lord so for a flicker he wished someone would give him some false assurances. Surely they would hurt less as they fell? Still, he gave a smile encouraging smile so as to bid the man proceed, turning his gaze forward as he listened.
The thought had occurred to him and had been debated at length, and if Achilleas were being brutally honest with himself, perhaps there had been a part of him that wished to do something he knew he was good at. He weathered the mildly stated criticism because there was merit in Diogenes idea, it was why it had been considered. Emilios was a capable Commander.
But Achilleas was too, and more than than, he thought it sent a stronger message to the Egyptians. If he, as newly crowned king, had hidden away at home whilst others answered the threat the sand rats offered with their declaration of war then it would have spoken more to a country unsure of itself, and ripe for the taking. More than anything he thought Taengea needed to prove itself strong and acting aggressively and without hesitation was the easiest way to send that message.
“I appreciate your candour my lord” Achilleas responded after a moments pause when Diogenes had finished speaking. “And I confess to you, I had considered that option too. But I could not rest easy nor feel I was doing right by Taengea to hide away here whilst others take our fight to the Egyptians. Nor could I ask our allies for their aid whilst I myself sat safely upon the throne. I hope you can understand that?”
It said a good deal of the new king that he was able to listen and respond with such understanding and control to even a criticism. Not that Diogenes' had been especially harsh, only that had he been in this place he might have advised differently. He had always felt respect for this Mikaelidas son, and seeing the king eloquently defend himself made the elder man smile fondly at the boy he'd known grown into a man. At the very least it would appear they were in capable hands of leadership, even if that leadership was currently disputed. He couldn't deny his unease at the thought of Emilios left in charge.
The second son of the second son had always been a sort of enigma, he was handsome as his brother, yet reckless as Stephanos had been in the past. The two were frequent visitors to his province, and he had seen firsthand some of their activities. But Stephanos had been a competent leader in spite of the obstacles set in his way, so perhaps Emilios would prove the same should the same demands rest on his shoulders. It was more difficult to expect such things from second sons, the sons that had never planned on ruling or leading beyond what their elder brothers required of them, Achileas at least had the required education to preserve a barony.
"Of course, your majesty. I understand entirely why choices have been made, the fact you considered the former and made your decision as it was shows that you are wise enough to consider all sides. We can hope for nothing less in our king." Walking still by his side, Diogenes stopped beside a particularly fragrant stand of herbs and took a deep breath in, closing his eyes with a smile to enjoy it before falling in by Achilleas once more.
"I wonder if I might be bold again, my lord." It was something that had been weighing on his mind and though he was uncertain about asking it of the young king he had heard from the loose tongues of those he did business with that the former king would be on the field of battle with the new one. "What will you do, when you meet your cousin again? Is he to be exiled forever, or allowed to return and given his due? I think only of his poor wife, as a Leventi supplicant I am as fond of dear Lady Olympia as I am your own Queen."
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It said a good deal of the new king that he was able to listen and respond with such understanding and control to even a criticism. Not that Diogenes' had been especially harsh, only that had he been in this place he might have advised differently. He had always felt respect for this Mikaelidas son, and seeing the king eloquently defend himself made the elder man smile fondly at the boy he'd known grown into a man. At the very least it would appear they were in capable hands of leadership, even if that leadership was currently disputed. He couldn't deny his unease at the thought of Emilios left in charge.
The second son of the second son had always been a sort of enigma, he was handsome as his brother, yet reckless as Stephanos had been in the past. The two were frequent visitors to his province, and he had seen firsthand some of their activities. But Stephanos had been a competent leader in spite of the obstacles set in his way, so perhaps Emilios would prove the same should the same demands rest on his shoulders. It was more difficult to expect such things from second sons, the sons that had never planned on ruling or leading beyond what their elder brothers required of them, Achileas at least had the required education to preserve a barony.
"Of course, your majesty. I understand entirely why choices have been made, the fact you considered the former and made your decision as it was shows that you are wise enough to consider all sides. We can hope for nothing less in our king." Walking still by his side, Diogenes stopped beside a particularly fragrant stand of herbs and took a deep breath in, closing his eyes with a smile to enjoy it before falling in by Achilleas once more.
"I wonder if I might be bold again, my lord." It was something that had been weighing on his mind and though he was uncertain about asking it of the young king he had heard from the loose tongues of those he did business with that the former king would be on the field of battle with the new one. "What will you do, when you meet your cousin again? Is he to be exiled forever, or allowed to return and given his due? I think only of his poor wife, as a Leventi supplicant I am as fond of dear Lady Olympia as I am your own Queen."
It said a good deal of the new king that he was able to listen and respond with such understanding and control to even a criticism. Not that Diogenes' had been especially harsh, only that had he been in this place he might have advised differently. He had always felt respect for this Mikaelidas son, and seeing the king eloquently defend himself made the elder man smile fondly at the boy he'd known grown into a man. At the very least it would appear they were in capable hands of leadership, even if that leadership was currently disputed. He couldn't deny his unease at the thought of Emilios left in charge.
The second son of the second son had always been a sort of enigma, he was handsome as his brother, yet reckless as Stephanos had been in the past. The two were frequent visitors to his province, and he had seen firsthand some of their activities. But Stephanos had been a competent leader in spite of the obstacles set in his way, so perhaps Emilios would prove the same should the same demands rest on his shoulders. It was more difficult to expect such things from second sons, the sons that had never planned on ruling or leading beyond what their elder brothers required of them, Achileas at least had the required education to preserve a barony.
"Of course, your majesty. I understand entirely why choices have been made, the fact you considered the former and made your decision as it was shows that you are wise enough to consider all sides. We can hope for nothing less in our king." Walking still by his side, Diogenes stopped beside a particularly fragrant stand of herbs and took a deep breath in, closing his eyes with a smile to enjoy it before falling in by Achilleas once more.
"I wonder if I might be bold again, my lord." It was something that had been weighing on his mind and though he was uncertain about asking it of the young king he had heard from the loose tongues of those he did business with that the former king would be on the field of battle with the new one. "What will you do, when you meet your cousin again? Is he to be exiled forever, or allowed to return and given his due? I think only of his poor wife, as a Leventi supplicant I am as fond of dear Lady Olympia as I am your own Queen."
It should not please him so much, Achilleas knew, to hear such words from the older man beside him. He was King, it was not for others to offer approval or to shore up his decisions. And yet though he did not respond outwardly, the younger man held on to the words, the testimony that perhaps he had done something right in amongst everything that he seemed to be getting criticised for.
It was not a thing he had ever managed to take well. Whilst he did not stamp his feet or react petulantly as some might, the Mikaelidas man tended to dwell on such things, turn his aggravation inward and second guess himself. It was an exhausting past time, but one that he’d grown well practiced in, growing with a father who taught through highlighting ones failures rather than praising any success.
“ I hope then to have put your mind at rest some. Emilios knows what is at stake, he will do well enough I am sure.” Achilleas paused his steps a moment when the older man stopped to take a breath of the fragrant air, showing no sign of impatience. He was rather appreciative of the sharp winter chill himself, and the moment’s respite it offered him. Things would be easier when he set sail, when he was in a sphere he did. It need to question himself so, when he was doing something he was good at and had earned his place in.
The next question that Lord Diogenes put to him though, reminded him that he wasn’t there yet, and that things here were much less clear cut. The only sign of Achilleas’ discomfort with the question was the flicker of a muscle in his jaw as the man dropped his head to look at his feet as he tried to decide how to answer.
He did not know what would happen when he saw his cousin again. Stephanos’ last letter had been bitter and angry, and whilst he tried to understand the why, it did not change the fact that for it to be directed at him felt unfair. He had not asked for any of this. But perhaps it was as Theodora had said, that people believed he had done nothing and was complacent about his cousin’s plight. Achilleas had not broadcast his thoughts on the matter, not when he was still uncertain as to who he could trust, or who might use such information against him.
“ It is bold of you to ask.” The words edged a little harder than those gone before, a warning to tread lightly. Defensive almost. But Achillleas drew a long breath in through his nose, tried to temper that feeling because he thought he could trust the man beside him at least. He had been a good friend of his Uncle and a supporter of Stephanos for the most part. Clearing his throat, Achilleas looked steadily at Lord Diogenes before he spoke again.
“I have nothing but love for my cousin and his wife and it would make me happiest to see them welcomed back to their home and their names cleared. But you and I know that is not so easily done. Any such recourse would require the support of the same senate that motioned to have him detained when I did not, and those same Heads of House who signed away his rights to rule. I will tell Stephanos as much, though he knows my thoughts already.”
It was enough to indicate that he had been in communication with his exiled kin, and Achilleas hoped, to establish his position on the matter which others seemed so ready and willing to misunderstand. [/i]
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It should not please him so much, Achilleas knew, to hear such words from the older man beside him. He was King, it was not for others to offer approval or to shore up his decisions. And yet though he did not respond outwardly, the younger man held on to the words, the testimony that perhaps he had done something right in amongst everything that he seemed to be getting criticised for.
It was not a thing he had ever managed to take well. Whilst he did not stamp his feet or react petulantly as some might, the Mikaelidas man tended to dwell on such things, turn his aggravation inward and second guess himself. It was an exhausting past time, but one that he’d grown well practiced in, growing with a father who taught through highlighting ones failures rather than praising any success.
“ I hope then to have put your mind at rest some. Emilios knows what is at stake, he will do well enough I am sure.” Achilleas paused his steps a moment when the older man stopped to take a breath of the fragrant air, showing no sign of impatience. He was rather appreciative of the sharp winter chill himself, and the moment’s respite it offered him. Things would be easier when he set sail, when he was in a sphere he did. It need to question himself so, when he was doing something he was good at and had earned his place in.
The next question that Lord Diogenes put to him though, reminded him that he wasn’t there yet, and that things here were much less clear cut. The only sign of Achilleas’ discomfort with the question was the flicker of a muscle in his jaw as the man dropped his head to look at his feet as he tried to decide how to answer.
He did not know what would happen when he saw his cousin again. Stephanos’ last letter had been bitter and angry, and whilst he tried to understand the why, it did not change the fact that for it to be directed at him felt unfair. He had not asked for any of this. But perhaps it was as Theodora had said, that people believed he had done nothing and was complacent about his cousin’s plight. Achilleas had not broadcast his thoughts on the matter, not when he was still uncertain as to who he could trust, or who might use such information against him.
“ It is bold of you to ask.” The words edged a little harder than those gone before, a warning to tread lightly. Defensive almost. But Achillleas drew a long breath in through his nose, tried to temper that feeling because he thought he could trust the man beside him at least. He had been a good friend of his Uncle and a supporter of Stephanos for the most part. Clearing his throat, Achilleas looked steadily at Lord Diogenes before he spoke again.
“I have nothing but love for my cousin and his wife and it would make me happiest to see them welcomed back to their home and their names cleared. But you and I know that is not so easily done. Any such recourse would require the support of the same senate that motioned to have him detained when I did not, and those same Heads of House who signed away his rights to rule. I will tell Stephanos as much, though he knows my thoughts already.”
It was enough to indicate that he had been in communication with his exiled kin, and Achilleas hoped, to establish his position on the matter which others seemed so ready and willing to misunderstand. [/i]
It should not please him so much, Achilleas knew, to hear such words from the older man beside him. He was King, it was not for others to offer approval or to shore up his decisions. And yet though he did not respond outwardly, the younger man held on to the words, the testimony that perhaps he had done something right in amongst everything that he seemed to be getting criticised for.
It was not a thing he had ever managed to take well. Whilst he did not stamp his feet or react petulantly as some might, the Mikaelidas man tended to dwell on such things, turn his aggravation inward and second guess himself. It was an exhausting past time, but one that he’d grown well practiced in, growing with a father who taught through highlighting ones failures rather than praising any success.
“ I hope then to have put your mind at rest some. Emilios knows what is at stake, he will do well enough I am sure.” Achilleas paused his steps a moment when the older man stopped to take a breath of the fragrant air, showing no sign of impatience. He was rather appreciative of the sharp winter chill himself, and the moment’s respite it offered him. Things would be easier when he set sail, when he was in a sphere he did. It need to question himself so, when he was doing something he was good at and had earned his place in.
The next question that Lord Diogenes put to him though, reminded him that he wasn’t there yet, and that things here were much less clear cut. The only sign of Achilleas’ discomfort with the question was the flicker of a muscle in his jaw as the man dropped his head to look at his feet as he tried to decide how to answer.
He did not know what would happen when he saw his cousin again. Stephanos’ last letter had been bitter and angry, and whilst he tried to understand the why, it did not change the fact that for it to be directed at him felt unfair. He had not asked for any of this. But perhaps it was as Theodora had said, that people believed he had done nothing and was complacent about his cousin’s plight. Achilleas had not broadcast his thoughts on the matter, not when he was still uncertain as to who he could trust, or who might use such information against him.
“ It is bold of you to ask.” The words edged a little harder than those gone before, a warning to tread lightly. Defensive almost. But Achillleas drew a long breath in through his nose, tried to temper that feeling because he thought he could trust the man beside him at least. He had been a good friend of his Uncle and a supporter of Stephanos for the most part. Clearing his throat, Achilleas looked steadily at Lord Diogenes before he spoke again.
“I have nothing but love for my cousin and his wife and it would make me happiest to see them welcomed back to their home and their names cleared. But you and I know that is not so easily done. Any such recourse would require the support of the same senate that motioned to have him detained when I did not, and those same Heads of House who signed away his rights to rule. I will tell Stephanos as much, though he knows my thoughts already.”
It was enough to indicate that he had been in communication with his exiled kin, and Achilleas hoped, to establish his position on the matter which others seemed so ready and willing to misunderstand. [/i]
"Indeed it has, Your Majesty." Diogenes nodded along with his vocal affirmation. Emilios was a Mikaelidas, no doubt he would prove just as competent as the rest of them had. He would not voice the little concerns in the back of his mind, that the threats facing the country from within had not yet faded away. Yet there was no proof of this, and if Achilleas had faith in his younger brother, so too would Diogenes until given reason otherwise.
The sharpness in the young king's tone as he spoke made no perceptible change in the old senator's face, keeping his gaze ahead at the garden and his posture without shift. If he was going to strike at him for the question it would not do for him to show any cowardice or weakness, and there was a certainty in his heart that Achilleas would not be the vengeful king his father and other relatives might be. He was too much of his Dimitrou mother to have that uncontrollable rage.
Diogenes turned to look at the king steadily as the man put forward his feelings on the matter, nodding along in understanding. The two cousins had been put into a situation no family should have to handle. Kassotis had voted against the movement to strip Stephanos of his crown and label him a traitor, but Irakles' threats had been made plain. Thanks to the wealth of the family they had not had to bend to him, but enough in the senate had been swayed by their own threats and motivations. If things were stabilized and the former king brought before the senate to make his case, the evidence examined would reveal at the least the man and his family could be brought back to take a barony if not the throne.
Taking a deep breath and exhaling slowly, the older man gave a satisfied hum, looking to the younger with a smile. "I am glad you have spoken. There is nothing worse than a rift between family. Especially when the cause is so shocking." He considered a moment how best to phrase his next statement. "Kassotis is prepared to support the return of the family, in whatever capacity Your Majesty sees fit. Our voice is with yours."
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"Indeed it has, Your Majesty." Diogenes nodded along with his vocal affirmation. Emilios was a Mikaelidas, no doubt he would prove just as competent as the rest of them had. He would not voice the little concerns in the back of his mind, that the threats facing the country from within had not yet faded away. Yet there was no proof of this, and if Achilleas had faith in his younger brother, so too would Diogenes until given reason otherwise.
The sharpness in the young king's tone as he spoke made no perceptible change in the old senator's face, keeping his gaze ahead at the garden and his posture without shift. If he was going to strike at him for the question it would not do for him to show any cowardice or weakness, and there was a certainty in his heart that Achilleas would not be the vengeful king his father and other relatives might be. He was too much of his Dimitrou mother to have that uncontrollable rage.
Diogenes turned to look at the king steadily as the man put forward his feelings on the matter, nodding along in understanding. The two cousins had been put into a situation no family should have to handle. Kassotis had voted against the movement to strip Stephanos of his crown and label him a traitor, but Irakles' threats had been made plain. Thanks to the wealth of the family they had not had to bend to him, but enough in the senate had been swayed by their own threats and motivations. If things were stabilized and the former king brought before the senate to make his case, the evidence examined would reveal at the least the man and his family could be brought back to take a barony if not the throne.
Taking a deep breath and exhaling slowly, the older man gave a satisfied hum, looking to the younger with a smile. "I am glad you have spoken. There is nothing worse than a rift between family. Especially when the cause is so shocking." He considered a moment how best to phrase his next statement. "Kassotis is prepared to support the return of the family, in whatever capacity Your Majesty sees fit. Our voice is with yours."
"Indeed it has, Your Majesty." Diogenes nodded along with his vocal affirmation. Emilios was a Mikaelidas, no doubt he would prove just as competent as the rest of them had. He would not voice the little concerns in the back of his mind, that the threats facing the country from within had not yet faded away. Yet there was no proof of this, and if Achilleas had faith in his younger brother, so too would Diogenes until given reason otherwise.
The sharpness in the young king's tone as he spoke made no perceptible change in the old senator's face, keeping his gaze ahead at the garden and his posture without shift. If he was going to strike at him for the question it would not do for him to show any cowardice or weakness, and there was a certainty in his heart that Achilleas would not be the vengeful king his father and other relatives might be. He was too much of his Dimitrou mother to have that uncontrollable rage.
Diogenes turned to look at the king steadily as the man put forward his feelings on the matter, nodding along in understanding. The two cousins had been put into a situation no family should have to handle. Kassotis had voted against the movement to strip Stephanos of his crown and label him a traitor, but Irakles' threats had been made plain. Thanks to the wealth of the family they had not had to bend to him, but enough in the senate had been swayed by their own threats and motivations. If things were stabilized and the former king brought before the senate to make his case, the evidence examined would reveal at the least the man and his family could be brought back to take a barony if not the throne.
Taking a deep breath and exhaling slowly, the older man gave a satisfied hum, looking to the younger with a smile. "I am glad you have spoken. There is nothing worse than a rift between family. Especially when the cause is so shocking." He considered a moment how best to phrase his next statement. "Kassotis is prepared to support the return of the family, in whatever capacity Your Majesty sees fit. Our voice is with yours."
It had been Lady Evangelina who had pointed it out to him when he made it too obvious that his cousin was a sore spot, and Achilleas realised he’d done it again as he heard himself, tried to moderate his tone a little, to be more neutral. It was difficult though with a subject that had been a source of discord between him and his wife, a problem that he knew needed and deserved his attention and yet that he was not granted the time to address properly. He sighed quietly, frustrated at himself and the situation both.
That Lord Diogenes seemed to ignore his momentary lapse in composure was a welcome thing, Achilleas giving a pensive nod as the older man spoke. He wasn’t so certain the man’s relief was well-placed, given the tone of his cousin’s last letter. Was this what this was now, a rift? He wanted no such thing. But Achilleas had a responsibility now, to Taengea, and rushing Stephanos back into power only for it to plunge the kingdom into infighting and bickering was not a thing he was prepared to do. It needed to be handled with care and finesse, some of the political delicacy that always made the new king afraid of tripping himself up.
‘Kassotis is prepared to support the return of the family, in whatever capacity Your Majesty sees fit. Our voice is with yours.’
That had the Mikaelidas man turn a more assessing gaze on the one who walked beside him, because there was weight in those words, and the careful way in which they’d been delivered suggested it was deliberate. Well, that was...good to know.
Dynasteia Mikaelidas had ruled long over the Taengean kingdom, and yet Achilleas could not help but feel them spread too thin now. So much death and mistrust, there was a job to be done in rebuilding confidence in the house of the lions, and there were always those who would seek to profit from any show of weakness. Already Egypt knocked upon their door like a hungry dog, and he was certain that there were those within the kingdom itself who would not be sorry to see them humbled.
Zenon, Zacharias, his father, all dead and gone. Stephanos living under a cloud of judgement. That left Emilios and him, and that was without getting into the matter of Fotios of Leventi’s new claim to say so over the Mikaelidas estate. Was it any wonder Achilleas was wary of placing his faith in those outside of his immediate family? The new king studied Lord Diogenes’ profile for a moment longer before he spoke in return.
“Thank you, my lord. It pleases me to know of your family’s loyalty to my cousin and to Mikaelidas. As and when I am in a position to let you know of any developments, then I will be sure to. There are still far too many whom I cannot place my trust in so readily."
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It had been Lady Evangelina who had pointed it out to him when he made it too obvious that his cousin was a sore spot, and Achilleas realised he’d done it again as he heard himself, tried to moderate his tone a little, to be more neutral. It was difficult though with a subject that had been a source of discord between him and his wife, a problem that he knew needed and deserved his attention and yet that he was not granted the time to address properly. He sighed quietly, frustrated at himself and the situation both.
That Lord Diogenes seemed to ignore his momentary lapse in composure was a welcome thing, Achilleas giving a pensive nod as the older man spoke. He wasn’t so certain the man’s relief was well-placed, given the tone of his cousin’s last letter. Was this what this was now, a rift? He wanted no such thing. But Achilleas had a responsibility now, to Taengea, and rushing Stephanos back into power only for it to plunge the kingdom into infighting and bickering was not a thing he was prepared to do. It needed to be handled with care and finesse, some of the political delicacy that always made the new king afraid of tripping himself up.
‘Kassotis is prepared to support the return of the family, in whatever capacity Your Majesty sees fit. Our voice is with yours.’
That had the Mikaelidas man turn a more assessing gaze on the one who walked beside him, because there was weight in those words, and the careful way in which they’d been delivered suggested it was deliberate. Well, that was...good to know.
Dynasteia Mikaelidas had ruled long over the Taengean kingdom, and yet Achilleas could not help but feel them spread too thin now. So much death and mistrust, there was a job to be done in rebuilding confidence in the house of the lions, and there were always those who would seek to profit from any show of weakness. Already Egypt knocked upon their door like a hungry dog, and he was certain that there were those within the kingdom itself who would not be sorry to see them humbled.
Zenon, Zacharias, his father, all dead and gone. Stephanos living under a cloud of judgement. That left Emilios and him, and that was without getting into the matter of Fotios of Leventi’s new claim to say so over the Mikaelidas estate. Was it any wonder Achilleas was wary of placing his faith in those outside of his immediate family? The new king studied Lord Diogenes’ profile for a moment longer before he spoke in return.
“Thank you, my lord. It pleases me to know of your family’s loyalty to my cousin and to Mikaelidas. As and when I am in a position to let you know of any developments, then I will be sure to. There are still far too many whom I cannot place my trust in so readily."
It had been Lady Evangelina who had pointed it out to him when he made it too obvious that his cousin was a sore spot, and Achilleas realised he’d done it again as he heard himself, tried to moderate his tone a little, to be more neutral. It was difficult though with a subject that had been a source of discord between him and his wife, a problem that he knew needed and deserved his attention and yet that he was not granted the time to address properly. He sighed quietly, frustrated at himself and the situation both.
That Lord Diogenes seemed to ignore his momentary lapse in composure was a welcome thing, Achilleas giving a pensive nod as the older man spoke. He wasn’t so certain the man’s relief was well-placed, given the tone of his cousin’s last letter. Was this what this was now, a rift? He wanted no such thing. But Achilleas had a responsibility now, to Taengea, and rushing Stephanos back into power only for it to plunge the kingdom into infighting and bickering was not a thing he was prepared to do. It needed to be handled with care and finesse, some of the political delicacy that always made the new king afraid of tripping himself up.
‘Kassotis is prepared to support the return of the family, in whatever capacity Your Majesty sees fit. Our voice is with yours.’
That had the Mikaelidas man turn a more assessing gaze on the one who walked beside him, because there was weight in those words, and the careful way in which they’d been delivered suggested it was deliberate. Well, that was...good to know.
Dynasteia Mikaelidas had ruled long over the Taengean kingdom, and yet Achilleas could not help but feel them spread too thin now. So much death and mistrust, there was a job to be done in rebuilding confidence in the house of the lions, and there were always those who would seek to profit from any show of weakness. Already Egypt knocked upon their door like a hungry dog, and he was certain that there were those within the kingdom itself who would not be sorry to see them humbled.
Zenon, Zacharias, his father, all dead and gone. Stephanos living under a cloud of judgement. That left Emilios and him, and that was without getting into the matter of Fotios of Leventi’s new claim to say so over the Mikaelidas estate. Was it any wonder Achilleas was wary of placing his faith in those outside of his immediate family? The new king studied Lord Diogenes’ profile for a moment longer before he spoke in return.
“Thank you, my lord. It pleases me to know of your family’s loyalty to my cousin and to Mikaelidas. As and when I am in a position to let you know of any developments, then I will be sure to. There are still far too many whom I cannot place my trust in so readily."
Diogenes felt for the young king. It was not an easy position in which he found himself, and to feel at odds against ones own family was a torture the Kassotis patriarch hoped never to feel in his lifetime. He wished he could embrace the king as he might have done when the boy was younger, running about with the cousins and friends that had filled the Mikaelidas Palace when his dear Zenon had ruled, but that would not be the appropriate move for an austere elder statesman and a stoic young king.
The Mikaelidas dynasty had long reigned over the kingdom, so far back as he could remember and that was a good many decades longer than most. Whatever their faults, the country had been prosperous and on good terms with the rest of the kingdoms, and Diogenes had no desire to see the family splinter any further apart. He wasn't quite ready to have to learn allegiance to a new family's tastes. If any regime change was to take place he was bold enough to hope it happened after he had passed into the care of Hades.
He nodded in understanding at the measured response. Achilleas would not be willing to show his hand just yet, not with the discord and strife that had befallen the family lately. No matter how much trust the Kassotis family had built up, that the young king kept things to himself showed his wisdom and Diogenes felt a sense of pride in the man before him. If his own sons could show some of the stoic wisdom this man could, he would be a proud sire indeed.
"All in time, your majesty. A world where a man feels he has lost trust is a hard one indeed. I hope in time you will feel there is a security in your place." A kingdom without trust was no place for anyone to feel safe, it was a two way street between the vassals and ruling class. He would happily show as many times as necessary how strongly his family stood behind Mikaelidas. "I am certain of your victory, if ever you find need to call upon us, our house will be for you."
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Diogenes felt for the young king. It was not an easy position in which he found himself, and to feel at odds against ones own family was a torture the Kassotis patriarch hoped never to feel in his lifetime. He wished he could embrace the king as he might have done when the boy was younger, running about with the cousins and friends that had filled the Mikaelidas Palace when his dear Zenon had ruled, but that would not be the appropriate move for an austere elder statesman and a stoic young king.
The Mikaelidas dynasty had long reigned over the kingdom, so far back as he could remember and that was a good many decades longer than most. Whatever their faults, the country had been prosperous and on good terms with the rest of the kingdoms, and Diogenes had no desire to see the family splinter any further apart. He wasn't quite ready to have to learn allegiance to a new family's tastes. If any regime change was to take place he was bold enough to hope it happened after he had passed into the care of Hades.
He nodded in understanding at the measured response. Achilleas would not be willing to show his hand just yet, not with the discord and strife that had befallen the family lately. No matter how much trust the Kassotis family had built up, that the young king kept things to himself showed his wisdom and Diogenes felt a sense of pride in the man before him. If his own sons could show some of the stoic wisdom this man could, he would be a proud sire indeed.
"All in time, your majesty. A world where a man feels he has lost trust is a hard one indeed. I hope in time you will feel there is a security in your place." A kingdom without trust was no place for anyone to feel safe, it was a two way street between the vassals and ruling class. He would happily show as many times as necessary how strongly his family stood behind Mikaelidas. "I am certain of your victory, if ever you find need to call upon us, our house will be for you."
Diogenes felt for the young king. It was not an easy position in which he found himself, and to feel at odds against ones own family was a torture the Kassotis patriarch hoped never to feel in his lifetime. He wished he could embrace the king as he might have done when the boy was younger, running about with the cousins and friends that had filled the Mikaelidas Palace when his dear Zenon had ruled, but that would not be the appropriate move for an austere elder statesman and a stoic young king.
The Mikaelidas dynasty had long reigned over the kingdom, so far back as he could remember and that was a good many decades longer than most. Whatever their faults, the country had been prosperous and on good terms with the rest of the kingdoms, and Diogenes had no desire to see the family splinter any further apart. He wasn't quite ready to have to learn allegiance to a new family's tastes. If any regime change was to take place he was bold enough to hope it happened after he had passed into the care of Hades.
He nodded in understanding at the measured response. Achilleas would not be willing to show his hand just yet, not with the discord and strife that had befallen the family lately. No matter how much trust the Kassotis family had built up, that the young king kept things to himself showed his wisdom and Diogenes felt a sense of pride in the man before him. If his own sons could show some of the stoic wisdom this man could, he would be a proud sire indeed.
"All in time, your majesty. A world where a man feels he has lost trust is a hard one indeed. I hope in time you will feel there is a security in your place." A kingdom without trust was no place for anyone to feel safe, it was a two way street between the vassals and ruling class. He would happily show as many times as necessary how strongly his family stood behind Mikaelidas. "I am certain of your victory, if ever you find need to call upon us, our house will be for you."
‘All in time, your majesty. A world where a man feels he has lost trust is a hard one, indeed. I hope in time you will feel there is a security in your place.’
Achilleas could not help but think time the only commodity he did not have to spare at this moment, but he gave a bland smile and a nod, He could hope for that too, but what he preferred was to feel as if he were making strides towards it himself, and now, everything felt rushed and reactive. No matter that he was sure it was the right course given the intelligence they had been, the immediacy of it, the fact he had yet to receive a response from their Athenian allies. Well. None of it was ideal.
“Again, my thanks, Lord Diogenes,” he said, turning as they reached the bottom end of the formal gardens to wander along the pathway that bordered the walls of the palati itself. Here the borders were dotted with helleboros and kissos, and the gravel pathway crunched underfoot. The views here swept down to the blue Aegean, and it was in this direction that King looked as he began to speak once more.
“If it is not too much to trouble you with, my Lord, I might ask that you keep an eye on Princesses Xene and Gianna. Stephanos had asked it of me - they have been through so much with all of this, but I will not be here to do so, and my brother’s time will be pushed as it is.”
Xene had the barony, of course, yet to be announced but she would need help if she were not to falter in such a role. And Stephanos had worried after Gianna, fearing her naivete would trip her up. Turning his gaze back to Diogenes, Achilleas did not bother to hide his own concern too as he implored the older man to do what he could not. “They know you well enough that Xene’s spikiness should not keep you away,” he said. “And you know the vipers at court well enough to steer them clear. It would be a personal favour to me that I would be most grateful for.”
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‘All in time, your majesty. A world where a man feels he has lost trust is a hard one, indeed. I hope in time you will feel there is a security in your place.’
Achilleas could not help but think time the only commodity he did not have to spare at this moment, but he gave a bland smile and a nod, He could hope for that too, but what he preferred was to feel as if he were making strides towards it himself, and now, everything felt rushed and reactive. No matter that he was sure it was the right course given the intelligence they had been, the immediacy of it, the fact he had yet to receive a response from their Athenian allies. Well. None of it was ideal.
“Again, my thanks, Lord Diogenes,” he said, turning as they reached the bottom end of the formal gardens to wander along the pathway that bordered the walls of the palati itself. Here the borders were dotted with helleboros and kissos, and the gravel pathway crunched underfoot. The views here swept down to the blue Aegean, and it was in this direction that King looked as he began to speak once more.
“If it is not too much to trouble you with, my Lord, I might ask that you keep an eye on Princesses Xene and Gianna. Stephanos had asked it of me - they have been through so much with all of this, but I will not be here to do so, and my brother’s time will be pushed as it is.”
Xene had the barony, of course, yet to be announced but she would need help if she were not to falter in such a role. And Stephanos had worried after Gianna, fearing her naivete would trip her up. Turning his gaze back to Diogenes, Achilleas did not bother to hide his own concern too as he implored the older man to do what he could not. “They know you well enough that Xene’s spikiness should not keep you away,” he said. “And you know the vipers at court well enough to steer them clear. It would be a personal favour to me that I would be most grateful for.”
‘All in time, your majesty. A world where a man feels he has lost trust is a hard one, indeed. I hope in time you will feel there is a security in your place.’
Achilleas could not help but think time the only commodity he did not have to spare at this moment, but he gave a bland smile and a nod, He could hope for that too, but what he preferred was to feel as if he were making strides towards it himself, and now, everything felt rushed and reactive. No matter that he was sure it was the right course given the intelligence they had been, the immediacy of it, the fact he had yet to receive a response from their Athenian allies. Well. None of it was ideal.
“Again, my thanks, Lord Diogenes,” he said, turning as they reached the bottom end of the formal gardens to wander along the pathway that bordered the walls of the palati itself. Here the borders were dotted with helleboros and kissos, and the gravel pathway crunched underfoot. The views here swept down to the blue Aegean, and it was in this direction that King looked as he began to speak once more.
“If it is not too much to trouble you with, my Lord, I might ask that you keep an eye on Princesses Xene and Gianna. Stephanos had asked it of me - they have been through so much with all of this, but I will not be here to do so, and my brother’s time will be pushed as it is.”
Xene had the barony, of course, yet to be announced but she would need help if she were not to falter in such a role. And Stephanos had worried after Gianna, fearing her naivete would trip her up. Turning his gaze back to Diogenes, Achilleas did not bother to hide his own concern too as he implored the older man to do what he could not. “They know you well enough that Xene’s spikiness should not keep you away,” he said. “And you know the vipers at court well enough to steer them clear. It would be a personal favour to me that I would be most grateful for.”
As the men rounded the garden to the lower corner he gave a soft 'ahh' of approval. This view was one he had always enjoyed, and as Achilleas stopped to take in the sighs Diogenes felt a pang in his heart. When they had been able, this was the place he and Zenon came most often to talk of things. Matters of state and the heart, there was nothing he missed more than being able to talk to his friend. For so many years gone by it was a weekly ritual whenever Diogenes was in Vasiliadon. They would take breakfast together and walk through the gardens, pausing at this point to take in the sights and talk about the most intimate matters where there was no one to hear them.
Looking over to Achilleas he couldn't help the smile at the request for him to look after Gianna and Xene. Nothing could give him greater happiness than to spend more time with the girls, and as he looked to the young king for a moment he could see a shadow of his old friend standing beside him. Not as strong as when he had spoken to Zacharias, but there was something of Zenon in his nephew as well, whether the young man knew it or not.
"It would be my greatest pleasure, your majesty. I am well versed in handling Xene's moods, she's so much like her mother that one. As for Gianna..." he trailed off in a sigh, tears welling in his eyes as he looked out to sea again to try to compose himself. "She is so very like her father."
Diogenes cleared his throat, brushing a hand at his face and trying to shake off the outburst of emotion that was unbecoming. Zenon would have tsked his tongue and scolded him for such nonsense, but he was not here. How had it not even been a year since he had lost the man who was perhaps the most important to him aside from his brother and sons? It felt as if the man would walk around the bushes any moment with a laugh that so many had fallen for his jest. But yet it had been an age.
"I will gladly give them whatever they need. And anything else your majesty requires. Simply say the word and it shall be done." He paused a moment before looking back to him. "And, if you see your cousin my lord. Tell him I send my regards. The Mikaelidas women will always have a protector so long as I am here."
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As the men rounded the garden to the lower corner he gave a soft 'ahh' of approval. This view was one he had always enjoyed, and as Achilleas stopped to take in the sighs Diogenes felt a pang in his heart. When they had been able, this was the place he and Zenon came most often to talk of things. Matters of state and the heart, there was nothing he missed more than being able to talk to his friend. For so many years gone by it was a weekly ritual whenever Diogenes was in Vasiliadon. They would take breakfast together and walk through the gardens, pausing at this point to take in the sights and talk about the most intimate matters where there was no one to hear them.
Looking over to Achilleas he couldn't help the smile at the request for him to look after Gianna and Xene. Nothing could give him greater happiness than to spend more time with the girls, and as he looked to the young king for a moment he could see a shadow of his old friend standing beside him. Not as strong as when he had spoken to Zacharias, but there was something of Zenon in his nephew as well, whether the young man knew it or not.
"It would be my greatest pleasure, your majesty. I am well versed in handling Xene's moods, she's so much like her mother that one. As for Gianna..." he trailed off in a sigh, tears welling in his eyes as he looked out to sea again to try to compose himself. "She is so very like her father."
Diogenes cleared his throat, brushing a hand at his face and trying to shake off the outburst of emotion that was unbecoming. Zenon would have tsked his tongue and scolded him for such nonsense, but he was not here. How had it not even been a year since he had lost the man who was perhaps the most important to him aside from his brother and sons? It felt as if the man would walk around the bushes any moment with a laugh that so many had fallen for his jest. But yet it had been an age.
"I will gladly give them whatever they need. And anything else your majesty requires. Simply say the word and it shall be done." He paused a moment before looking back to him. "And, if you see your cousin my lord. Tell him I send my regards. The Mikaelidas women will always have a protector so long as I am here."
As the men rounded the garden to the lower corner he gave a soft 'ahh' of approval. This view was one he had always enjoyed, and as Achilleas stopped to take in the sighs Diogenes felt a pang in his heart. When they had been able, this was the place he and Zenon came most often to talk of things. Matters of state and the heart, there was nothing he missed more than being able to talk to his friend. For so many years gone by it was a weekly ritual whenever Diogenes was in Vasiliadon. They would take breakfast together and walk through the gardens, pausing at this point to take in the sights and talk about the most intimate matters where there was no one to hear them.
Looking over to Achilleas he couldn't help the smile at the request for him to look after Gianna and Xene. Nothing could give him greater happiness than to spend more time with the girls, and as he looked to the young king for a moment he could see a shadow of his old friend standing beside him. Not as strong as when he had spoken to Zacharias, but there was something of Zenon in his nephew as well, whether the young man knew it or not.
"It would be my greatest pleasure, your majesty. I am well versed in handling Xene's moods, she's so much like her mother that one. As for Gianna..." he trailed off in a sigh, tears welling in his eyes as he looked out to sea again to try to compose himself. "She is so very like her father."
Diogenes cleared his throat, brushing a hand at his face and trying to shake off the outburst of emotion that was unbecoming. Zenon would have tsked his tongue and scolded him for such nonsense, but he was not here. How had it not even been a year since he had lost the man who was perhaps the most important to him aside from his brother and sons? It felt as if the man would walk around the bushes any moment with a laugh that so many had fallen for his jest. But yet it had been an age.
"I will gladly give them whatever they need. And anything else your majesty requires. Simply say the word and it shall be done." He paused a moment before looking back to him. "And, if you see your cousin my lord. Tell him I send my regards. The Mikaelidas women will always have a protector so long as I am here."
Achilleas was not good at dealing with outward shows of emotion. It had always been discouraged, even when he was a child his father would bear no crying, and though his elder child had a soft heart he had soon learned to hide it. Such a habit, ingrained over the years, was no easier to set aside just because the man was gone. So whilst he was quick enough to notice the change in his companions demeanour, Achilleas was awkward at how to address it. He turned his gaze outward towards the ocean, thought to give the older man a chance to compose himself and tried to acknowledge his own feelings which seemed to sit so uncomfortably close to the surface these past days.
The ghosts in this place were too many now, and it would be a lie to say that the new King did not feel things. He’d just learned long ago to hide it to the best of his ability. An ability that was being sorely tested. Achilleas was weary of it; he disliked feeling so out of control and he’d felt that way for weeks now. It just seemed to be getting worse, his nerves fraying until he did stupid things like…
Well, stupid things. Unconsciously, Achilleas flexed the fingers on his left hand where it rested behind his back, the sharp ache grounding in a way. He pretended not to notice as Diogenes wiped at his eyes, not looking back at the man until he spoke and then there was slight, sad smile that lifted the younger man’s lips.
“That gives me much comfort, my lord.” It was one thing that had been asked of him that he could make sure someone else took care of. And Achilleas knew only too well that his cousins were too wary now to let just anyone close enough to care. They perhaps were more sheltered, but he knew that Xene at least hated to feel powerless, and what else had they been made in the course of things? Perhaps their father’s old friend would bring them some comfort. Perhaps he would even talk some sense into his Aunt, who Achilleas was still barely speaking to.
And when the Kassotis man mentioned Stephanos again, Achilleas nodded. Not that he knew what to expect when that meeting happened. Or if Steph would listen to anything he had to say. The Mikaelidas family was hardly united at the moment.
“Let us hope there is no further need Lord Diogenes, and that we can find a way to a more peaceful time.”
There was one thing to be sure of, and that was that the current Mikaelidas King would do his damndest to get them there.
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Achilleas was not good at dealing with outward shows of emotion. It had always been discouraged, even when he was a child his father would bear no crying, and though his elder child had a soft heart he had soon learned to hide it. Such a habit, ingrained over the years, was no easier to set aside just because the man was gone. So whilst he was quick enough to notice the change in his companions demeanour, Achilleas was awkward at how to address it. He turned his gaze outward towards the ocean, thought to give the older man a chance to compose himself and tried to acknowledge his own feelings which seemed to sit so uncomfortably close to the surface these past days.
The ghosts in this place were too many now, and it would be a lie to say that the new King did not feel things. He’d just learned long ago to hide it to the best of his ability. An ability that was being sorely tested. Achilleas was weary of it; he disliked feeling so out of control and he’d felt that way for weeks now. It just seemed to be getting worse, his nerves fraying until he did stupid things like…
Well, stupid things. Unconsciously, Achilleas flexed the fingers on his left hand where it rested behind his back, the sharp ache grounding in a way. He pretended not to notice as Diogenes wiped at his eyes, not looking back at the man until he spoke and then there was slight, sad smile that lifted the younger man’s lips.
“That gives me much comfort, my lord.” It was one thing that had been asked of him that he could make sure someone else took care of. And Achilleas knew only too well that his cousins were too wary now to let just anyone close enough to care. They perhaps were more sheltered, but he knew that Xene at least hated to feel powerless, and what else had they been made in the course of things? Perhaps their father’s old friend would bring them some comfort. Perhaps he would even talk some sense into his Aunt, who Achilleas was still barely speaking to.
And when the Kassotis man mentioned Stephanos again, Achilleas nodded. Not that he knew what to expect when that meeting happened. Or if Steph would listen to anything he had to say. The Mikaelidas family was hardly united at the moment.
“Let us hope there is no further need Lord Diogenes, and that we can find a way to a more peaceful time.”
There was one thing to be sure of, and that was that the current Mikaelidas King would do his damndest to get them there.
Achilleas was not good at dealing with outward shows of emotion. It had always been discouraged, even when he was a child his father would bear no crying, and though his elder child had a soft heart he had soon learned to hide it. Such a habit, ingrained over the years, was no easier to set aside just because the man was gone. So whilst he was quick enough to notice the change in his companions demeanour, Achilleas was awkward at how to address it. He turned his gaze outward towards the ocean, thought to give the older man a chance to compose himself and tried to acknowledge his own feelings which seemed to sit so uncomfortably close to the surface these past days.
The ghosts in this place were too many now, and it would be a lie to say that the new King did not feel things. He’d just learned long ago to hide it to the best of his ability. An ability that was being sorely tested. Achilleas was weary of it; he disliked feeling so out of control and he’d felt that way for weeks now. It just seemed to be getting worse, his nerves fraying until he did stupid things like…
Well, stupid things. Unconsciously, Achilleas flexed the fingers on his left hand where it rested behind his back, the sharp ache grounding in a way. He pretended not to notice as Diogenes wiped at his eyes, not looking back at the man until he spoke and then there was slight, sad smile that lifted the younger man’s lips.
“That gives me much comfort, my lord.” It was one thing that had been asked of him that he could make sure someone else took care of. And Achilleas knew only too well that his cousins were too wary now to let just anyone close enough to care. They perhaps were more sheltered, but he knew that Xene at least hated to feel powerless, and what else had they been made in the course of things? Perhaps their father’s old friend would bring them some comfort. Perhaps he would even talk some sense into his Aunt, who Achilleas was still barely speaking to.
And when the Kassotis man mentioned Stephanos again, Achilleas nodded. Not that he knew what to expect when that meeting happened. Or if Steph would listen to anything he had to say. The Mikaelidas family was hardly united at the moment.
“Let us hope there is no further need Lord Diogenes, and that we can find a way to a more peaceful time.”
There was one thing to be sure of, and that was that the current Mikaelidas King would do his damndest to get them there.
