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It was late into the evening when Athanasia had finally come home from her adventures in the forest with Elias. She was surprised in many ways that he was fairly able to keep up with her, though she would have to say, what surprised her most was just the man himself and how he was around her. She knew that it had to be a trick or a game, it had to be, but something kept pulling her back to him. Was it his wit? His charm? His eyes? His touch? Or was it his mind? She loved that he seemed to give just as much as she did and he took whatever she gave him. Her mind was firmly on the day that she just had, her cheeks red as she thought of the man that she had challenged to the adventure. Athanasia shook her head as she scoffed, lightly slapping her cheeks to draw her mind away from any thoughts of the day. She almost suceeded, if her body didn't decide to cramp up at that time. Sitting on her bed, she rubbed her sore legs and feet till the sound of water splashing nearby drew her attention. A servant was pouring out the dirty wash water, inspiring Asia to what she could do to help her sore muscles. The hot springs!
It wasn't that far to travel and it would help a great deal, so Athanasia made the short trip with the moon shining high above her to light her way. Everything was quiet as the city started to tuck in for the night. Children going to sleep and adults relaxing before they close their eyes. Asia loved the night, she just wished the moon shone bright overhead every night and then she would be happy all the time and not fear the dark so much. The Springs were empty, save for a few servants that stayed to help guests. They guided her inside towards the pools that the women used and prepared a goblet of wine and cloths that she could use to dry off with when she was finished. Looking around, Athanasia saw no one there at all, so she stripped herself bare and lowered herself into the hot water. The heat almost instantly relaxing her muscles from and cramps and tightness from the day, earning the silent night around her a sigh of bliss before she dunked completely under the water.
The world seemed to vanish while she was under the water, wrapped in its heat and the swoosh sound of the water moving around her. For a moment, she could forget that she was anyone. Forget her fears. Forget her angers and stress. For this moment, Athanasia could just be. Unfortunately after a couple minutes under the water, her lungs started to protest the lack of air, making her resurface again.
Athene
Athanasia
Athene
Athanasia
Awards
First Impressions:Leggy; Warm, bronze-colored eyes; thick wavy hair & an easy smile.
Address: Your Royal Highness
It was late into the evening when Athanasia had finally come home from her adventures in the forest with Elias. She was surprised in many ways that he was fairly able to keep up with her, though she would have to say, what surprised her most was just the man himself and how he was around her. She knew that it had to be a trick or a game, it had to be, but something kept pulling her back to him. Was it his wit? His charm? His eyes? His touch? Or was it his mind? She loved that he seemed to give just as much as she did and he took whatever she gave him. Her mind was firmly on the day that she just had, her cheeks red as she thought of the man that she had challenged to the adventure. Athanasia shook her head as she scoffed, lightly slapping her cheeks to draw her mind away from any thoughts of the day. She almost suceeded, if her body didn't decide to cramp up at that time. Sitting on her bed, she rubbed her sore legs and feet till the sound of water splashing nearby drew her attention. A servant was pouring out the dirty wash water, inspiring Asia to what she could do to help her sore muscles. The hot springs!
It wasn't that far to travel and it would help a great deal, so Athanasia made the short trip with the moon shining high above her to light her way. Everything was quiet as the city started to tuck in for the night. Children going to sleep and adults relaxing before they close their eyes. Asia loved the night, she just wished the moon shone bright overhead every night and then she would be happy all the time and not fear the dark so much. The Springs were empty, save for a few servants that stayed to help guests. They guided her inside towards the pools that the women used and prepared a goblet of wine and cloths that she could use to dry off with when she was finished. Looking around, Athanasia saw no one there at all, so she stripped herself bare and lowered herself into the hot water. The heat almost instantly relaxing her muscles from and cramps and tightness from the day, earning the silent night around her a sigh of bliss before she dunked completely under the water.
The world seemed to vanish while she was under the water, wrapped in its heat and the swoosh sound of the water moving around her. For a moment, she could forget that she was anyone. Forget her fears. Forget her angers and stress. For this moment, Athanasia could just be. Unfortunately after a couple minutes under the water, her lungs started to protest the lack of air, making her resurface again.
It was late into the evening when Athanasia had finally come home from her adventures in the forest with Elias. She was surprised in many ways that he was fairly able to keep up with her, though she would have to say, what surprised her most was just the man himself and how he was around her. She knew that it had to be a trick or a game, it had to be, but something kept pulling her back to him. Was it his wit? His charm? His eyes? His touch? Or was it his mind? She loved that he seemed to give just as much as she did and he took whatever she gave him. Her mind was firmly on the day that she just had, her cheeks red as she thought of the man that she had challenged to the adventure. Athanasia shook her head as she scoffed, lightly slapping her cheeks to draw her mind away from any thoughts of the day. She almost suceeded, if her body didn't decide to cramp up at that time. Sitting on her bed, she rubbed her sore legs and feet till the sound of water splashing nearby drew her attention. A servant was pouring out the dirty wash water, inspiring Asia to what she could do to help her sore muscles. The hot springs!
It wasn't that far to travel and it would help a great deal, so Athanasia made the short trip with the moon shining high above her to light her way. Everything was quiet as the city started to tuck in for the night. Children going to sleep and adults relaxing before they close their eyes. Asia loved the night, she just wished the moon shone bright overhead every night and then she would be happy all the time and not fear the dark so much. The Springs were empty, save for a few servants that stayed to help guests. They guided her inside towards the pools that the women used and prepared a goblet of wine and cloths that she could use to dry off with when she was finished. Looking around, Athanasia saw no one there at all, so she stripped herself bare and lowered herself into the hot water. The heat almost instantly relaxing her muscles from and cramps and tightness from the day, earning the silent night around her a sigh of bliss before she dunked completely under the water.
The world seemed to vanish while she was under the water, wrapped in its heat and the swoosh sound of the water moving around her. For a moment, she could forget that she was anyone. Forget her fears. Forget her angers and stress. For this moment, Athanasia could just be. Unfortunately after a couple minutes under the water, her lungs started to protest the lack of air, making her resurface again.
As she sat against the trunk of the tree on the outskirts of Midas, Daniil had to admit there were days she felt more of a connection with the moon than with the owl. True, both were symbols of the night, and both seemed aloof from the worries and issues of the world that lived under the oppressions of the sun. But the owl was sedentary, and had ancient wisdom to it. The moon changed with the tide, waxing and waning beyond the control of those below. It had no need for wisdom. No desire to stay still. It moved and shifted as it pleased, heeding nothing and no one. On nights like this, staring up at the moon, she felt more of a connection to this heavenly body and the goddess that ruled it than to the owl and its goddess. Artemis blessed nights like these, dispensing healing light from her silver chariot racing across the night sky. But she was a Marikas. And a Marikas gave homage to Athena and her owls.
Even here in Colchis, clear across the Aegean, there was no escaping her name. Even here, as far from Athenia as she could be in Greece, her name haunted her, her blood keeping her from living her life as she wished. Part of her wished to simply disappear into these beautiful forests, to take on a different name and become the free woman she was always meant to be. But such idle fantasies were just that: fantasies. Wild imaginative thoughts and hopes that held no bearing nor weight here in the real world. She was a Marikas, and she had a legacy to live up to.
Sighing, she glanced behind her, at the lights of the city of Midas. Her time here in this place was soon to come to an end. Soon it would be time to return to Athenia, and her life there. Return to the palatial estate in which she had lived her entire life. Return to the prison in which she had been trapped since the day she had been born. A prison born of expectation, bloodlines, legacies, and tradition. A prison that wore the face of the owl that hung at her neck. She would not forget her time here in Colchis, nor the people she had met here. Many of which she wished to meet again. Others. . .
Pick a serving girl.
Suddenly, she stood up, no longer feeling comfortable against the tree. She felt stained. Unclean. Impure. She could return to the Thanasi estate, and make use of the baths there. But the idea of facing her father or grandfather did not appeal in the slightest at that exact moment. So where else could she go? Where else. . . Hadn't someone mentioned something about hot springs? Something the city was famous for? This late at night, surely they would be empty. Yes. Yes, that sounded absolutely perfect at that exact moment.
Her journey to the hot springs took her through the city, and during said journey she was privy to overhearing certain things that made her pause. Rumors. Gossip. Normally not something to pay attention to, but the subject of said rumors were what disturbed her. Athanasia Kotas, and Elias Stravos. Her childhood friend of Athenia, and a woman she could perhaps one day call friend. Surely, such things could not be true? She would not believe of them. Although, rumors about Elias and the man he had become had reached her in Athenia, and they disturbed her, as did this.
Distraught, she paid little attention to the servants that guided her to the springs for the women. She glanced around. They seemed empty. Good. After another moments hesitation, her chiton slipped from her shoulders to pool at her feet. She was not one to be nude in front of others. At home, she bathed and dressed herself without the use of slave or servant. She did not wish for another to see her only in her flesh. She put one foot down into the water, shuddering at the feeling of the heat, and was prepared to step in further until a shocking thing happened.
Princess Athanasia appeared from under the water, just a few feet from her. Daniil froze, her eyes bulging out of her head. Her mouth gaped open, and after that hesitation, her hands flew to cover herself as best she could, for all she wore was her owl pendant.
"A-Athanasia! What- I- I had believed the springs to be empty! I-" Her face was completely scarlet with utter humiliation and embarassment.
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This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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As she sat against the trunk of the tree on the outskirts of Midas, Daniil had to admit there were days she felt more of a connection with the moon than with the owl. True, both were symbols of the night, and both seemed aloof from the worries and issues of the world that lived under the oppressions of the sun. But the owl was sedentary, and had ancient wisdom to it. The moon changed with the tide, waxing and waning beyond the control of those below. It had no need for wisdom. No desire to stay still. It moved and shifted as it pleased, heeding nothing and no one. On nights like this, staring up at the moon, she felt more of a connection to this heavenly body and the goddess that ruled it than to the owl and its goddess. Artemis blessed nights like these, dispensing healing light from her silver chariot racing across the night sky. But she was a Marikas. And a Marikas gave homage to Athena and her owls.
Even here in Colchis, clear across the Aegean, there was no escaping her name. Even here, as far from Athenia as she could be in Greece, her name haunted her, her blood keeping her from living her life as she wished. Part of her wished to simply disappear into these beautiful forests, to take on a different name and become the free woman she was always meant to be. But such idle fantasies were just that: fantasies. Wild imaginative thoughts and hopes that held no bearing nor weight here in the real world. She was a Marikas, and she had a legacy to live up to.
Sighing, she glanced behind her, at the lights of the city of Midas. Her time here in this place was soon to come to an end. Soon it would be time to return to Athenia, and her life there. Return to the palatial estate in which she had lived her entire life. Return to the prison in which she had been trapped since the day she had been born. A prison born of expectation, bloodlines, legacies, and tradition. A prison that wore the face of the owl that hung at her neck. She would not forget her time here in Colchis, nor the people she had met here. Many of which she wished to meet again. Others. . .
Pick a serving girl.
Suddenly, she stood up, no longer feeling comfortable against the tree. She felt stained. Unclean. Impure. She could return to the Thanasi estate, and make use of the baths there. But the idea of facing her father or grandfather did not appeal in the slightest at that exact moment. So where else could she go? Where else. . . Hadn't someone mentioned something about hot springs? Something the city was famous for? This late at night, surely they would be empty. Yes. Yes, that sounded absolutely perfect at that exact moment.
Her journey to the hot springs took her through the city, and during said journey she was privy to overhearing certain things that made her pause. Rumors. Gossip. Normally not something to pay attention to, but the subject of said rumors were what disturbed her. Athanasia Kotas, and Elias Stravos. Her childhood friend of Athenia, and a woman she could perhaps one day call friend. Surely, such things could not be true? She would not believe of them. Although, rumors about Elias and the man he had become had reached her in Athenia, and they disturbed her, as did this.
Distraught, she paid little attention to the servants that guided her to the springs for the women. She glanced around. They seemed empty. Good. After another moments hesitation, her chiton slipped from her shoulders to pool at her feet. She was not one to be nude in front of others. At home, she bathed and dressed herself without the use of slave or servant. She did not wish for another to see her only in her flesh. She put one foot down into the water, shuddering at the feeling of the heat, and was prepared to step in further until a shocking thing happened.
Princess Athanasia appeared from under the water, just a few feet from her. Daniil froze, her eyes bulging out of her head. Her mouth gaped open, and after that hesitation, her hands flew to cover herself as best she could, for all she wore was her owl pendant.
"A-Athanasia! What- I- I had believed the springs to be empty! I-" Her face was completely scarlet with utter humiliation and embarassment.
As she sat against the trunk of the tree on the outskirts of Midas, Daniil had to admit there were days she felt more of a connection with the moon than with the owl. True, both were symbols of the night, and both seemed aloof from the worries and issues of the world that lived under the oppressions of the sun. But the owl was sedentary, and had ancient wisdom to it. The moon changed with the tide, waxing and waning beyond the control of those below. It had no need for wisdom. No desire to stay still. It moved and shifted as it pleased, heeding nothing and no one. On nights like this, staring up at the moon, she felt more of a connection to this heavenly body and the goddess that ruled it than to the owl and its goddess. Artemis blessed nights like these, dispensing healing light from her silver chariot racing across the night sky. But she was a Marikas. And a Marikas gave homage to Athena and her owls.
Even here in Colchis, clear across the Aegean, there was no escaping her name. Even here, as far from Athenia as she could be in Greece, her name haunted her, her blood keeping her from living her life as she wished. Part of her wished to simply disappear into these beautiful forests, to take on a different name and become the free woman she was always meant to be. But such idle fantasies were just that: fantasies. Wild imaginative thoughts and hopes that held no bearing nor weight here in the real world. She was a Marikas, and she had a legacy to live up to.
Sighing, she glanced behind her, at the lights of the city of Midas. Her time here in this place was soon to come to an end. Soon it would be time to return to Athenia, and her life there. Return to the palatial estate in which she had lived her entire life. Return to the prison in which she had been trapped since the day she had been born. A prison born of expectation, bloodlines, legacies, and tradition. A prison that wore the face of the owl that hung at her neck. She would not forget her time here in Colchis, nor the people she had met here. Many of which she wished to meet again. Others. . .
Pick a serving girl.
Suddenly, she stood up, no longer feeling comfortable against the tree. She felt stained. Unclean. Impure. She could return to the Thanasi estate, and make use of the baths there. But the idea of facing her father or grandfather did not appeal in the slightest at that exact moment. So where else could she go? Where else. . . Hadn't someone mentioned something about hot springs? Something the city was famous for? This late at night, surely they would be empty. Yes. Yes, that sounded absolutely perfect at that exact moment.
Her journey to the hot springs took her through the city, and during said journey she was privy to overhearing certain things that made her pause. Rumors. Gossip. Normally not something to pay attention to, but the subject of said rumors were what disturbed her. Athanasia Kotas, and Elias Stravos. Her childhood friend of Athenia, and a woman she could perhaps one day call friend. Surely, such things could not be true? She would not believe of them. Although, rumors about Elias and the man he had become had reached her in Athenia, and they disturbed her, as did this.
Distraught, she paid little attention to the servants that guided her to the springs for the women. She glanced around. They seemed empty. Good. After another moments hesitation, her chiton slipped from her shoulders to pool at her feet. She was not one to be nude in front of others. At home, she bathed and dressed herself without the use of slave or servant. She did not wish for another to see her only in her flesh. She put one foot down into the water, shuddering at the feeling of the heat, and was prepared to step in further until a shocking thing happened.
Princess Athanasia appeared from under the water, just a few feet from her. Daniil froze, her eyes bulging out of her head. Her mouth gaped open, and after that hesitation, her hands flew to cover herself as best she could, for all she wore was her owl pendant.
"A-Athanasia! What- I- I had believed the springs to be empty! I-" Her face was completely scarlet with utter humiliation and embarassment.
Her lungs burned as she held her breath for as long as she could, unwanting to leave this safe little bubble of nothingness for a little while longer. Her mind would not leave her be as it played the days events through her mind. Meeting Elias in the market, stealing his rock, his lips on her cheek. Athanasia had never in her life let a man get even close to her, and yet somehow he bewitched her with his damned forest eyes. Eyes that reminded her of her favorite places to hide, where she felt the most free. How dare he! The burn built to an uncomfortable level, her lungs pulled instinctively even as she kept her airway closed. She was not Posedion or related to him, she knew she could not breathe water like a fish. A new sound broke the woosh of the water around her, alerting her to someone stepping in.
She couldn't hold her breath any longer, breaking the surface as she pushed her hair away from her face, a familiar voice called out to her 'A-Athanasia! What- I- I had believed the springs to be empty! I-' Daniil stood there with one foot in the water and covering herself, her face red enough to make one think she was already in the hot spring for quite some time. "It is ok, I wasn't planning on coming here, but sore muscles screamed for the heat. You can join me. It is dark, so we can't see each other past the fire and moon light on our faces." Athanasia had made it a point to look everywhere else except the woman, knowing how it felt to be seen when you didn't want to be. Turning her back to Daniil, she moved further over to the other side, dipping under the surface as she did so to enjoy the heat. It was nice in the pool, deep enough to swim in and still can relax. She waited before Daniil fully got into the water before turning around again. "How are you liking Colchis so far?" Athanasia was curious about her potential new friend, looking over at her, Asia tilted her head to the side slightly. "Are you ok with me being here? I can leave if it will be more comfortable for you..?" She could see how embarassed she was and Asia didn't want to be the cause of that.
Athene
Athanasia
Athene
Athanasia
Awards
First Impressions:Leggy; Warm, bronze-colored eyes; thick wavy hair & an easy smile.
Address: Your Royal Highness
Her lungs burned as she held her breath for as long as she could, unwanting to leave this safe little bubble of nothingness for a little while longer. Her mind would not leave her be as it played the days events through her mind. Meeting Elias in the market, stealing his rock, his lips on her cheek. Athanasia had never in her life let a man get even close to her, and yet somehow he bewitched her with his damned forest eyes. Eyes that reminded her of her favorite places to hide, where she felt the most free. How dare he! The burn built to an uncomfortable level, her lungs pulled instinctively even as she kept her airway closed. She was not Posedion or related to him, she knew she could not breathe water like a fish. A new sound broke the woosh of the water around her, alerting her to someone stepping in.
She couldn't hold her breath any longer, breaking the surface as she pushed her hair away from her face, a familiar voice called out to her 'A-Athanasia! What- I- I had believed the springs to be empty! I-' Daniil stood there with one foot in the water and covering herself, her face red enough to make one think she was already in the hot spring for quite some time. "It is ok, I wasn't planning on coming here, but sore muscles screamed for the heat. You can join me. It is dark, so we can't see each other past the fire and moon light on our faces." Athanasia had made it a point to look everywhere else except the woman, knowing how it felt to be seen when you didn't want to be. Turning her back to Daniil, she moved further over to the other side, dipping under the surface as she did so to enjoy the heat. It was nice in the pool, deep enough to swim in and still can relax. She waited before Daniil fully got into the water before turning around again. "How are you liking Colchis so far?" Athanasia was curious about her potential new friend, looking over at her, Asia tilted her head to the side slightly. "Are you ok with me being here? I can leave if it will be more comfortable for you..?" She could see how embarassed she was and Asia didn't want to be the cause of that.
Her lungs burned as she held her breath for as long as she could, unwanting to leave this safe little bubble of nothingness for a little while longer. Her mind would not leave her be as it played the days events through her mind. Meeting Elias in the market, stealing his rock, his lips on her cheek. Athanasia had never in her life let a man get even close to her, and yet somehow he bewitched her with his damned forest eyes. Eyes that reminded her of her favorite places to hide, where she felt the most free. How dare he! The burn built to an uncomfortable level, her lungs pulled instinctively even as she kept her airway closed. She was not Posedion or related to him, she knew she could not breathe water like a fish. A new sound broke the woosh of the water around her, alerting her to someone stepping in.
She couldn't hold her breath any longer, breaking the surface as she pushed her hair away from her face, a familiar voice called out to her 'A-Athanasia! What- I- I had believed the springs to be empty! I-' Daniil stood there with one foot in the water and covering herself, her face red enough to make one think she was already in the hot spring for quite some time. "It is ok, I wasn't planning on coming here, but sore muscles screamed for the heat. You can join me. It is dark, so we can't see each other past the fire and moon light on our faces." Athanasia had made it a point to look everywhere else except the woman, knowing how it felt to be seen when you didn't want to be. Turning her back to Daniil, she moved further over to the other side, dipping under the surface as she did so to enjoy the heat. It was nice in the pool, deep enough to swim in and still can relax. She waited before Daniil fully got into the water before turning around again. "How are you liking Colchis so far?" Athanasia was curious about her potential new friend, looking over at her, Asia tilted her head to the side slightly. "Are you ok with me being here? I can leave if it will be more comfortable for you..?" She could see how embarassed she was and Asia didn't want to be the cause of that.
Her heart was racing so fast she could hear its pounding footsteps in her ears, nearly overpowering all other sensations. This was not the situation she had expected to find herself in. Alone in a hot springs, in front of the woman she may soon call friend, completely nude. Her face flushed pink, utterly embarrassed. She absolutely hated the idea of anyone seeing her naked, let alone Athanasia. What was she going to do? How was she going to. . . Face her again? This was it. Her life was over. Ruined. Stopped. Destroyed. There was no coming back from this. She was done.
Until she mentioned that the light was dim, and hard to see. Oh. Right. Of course. Flushing even harder, she just nodded, and slowly lowered herself into the water. It was hot. Refreshingly so. She could feel the heat sapping at her muscles, draining them of tension. It was easy to forget all about ones problems inside of these waters. Easy to forget the thoughts that plagued ones mind. At least until she was reminded of the others presence.
The question came out plainly enough. A simple one. 'How are you liking Colchis so far? Daniil lowered herself until the water was lapping at her chin, giving the least chance that any of her could be seen. How to answer that question appropriately? She did not wish to deceive her friend, but she was not used to people caring about how much she liked nor disliked something. A strange feeling. But far from unwelcome.
"Colchis is. . ." She struggled to find the word, her eyes moving towards the moon above. "Unusual, to me. Different. Much different from home. Not to say I did not enjoy my time here, for I most certainly did. It is just. . . different. I certainly hope to return one day." Her eyes moved from the moon to Athanasia, and a small smile poked at her lips. "Or perhaps one day I might be able to see you in Athenia?"
Daniil truly did wish to see the woman again. She was kind, carefree, confident, beautiful. It was not often that Daniil took the time to consider her words and actions for the benefit of another. But it was also not often that she found herself in the company of one she found to be worthy of such consideration, nor the effort of maintaining such good rapport. She wished to have Athanasia's friendship. She wished to speak with her more, and see her again.
Perhaps that was why her implied leaving made her panic. "No!" Daniil was so startled she nearly shouted the word out, her body popping up before she remembered where they were, and sinking back down, her eyes glancing back at the water. "No, please. Do not leave. I. . . I wish for you to stay. I apologize if I have offended you, truly I do, for it was not my intent. I. . ." She swallowed dryly, her face flushing again. "No one has ever seen me. . . like that. Like this. Without my chiton. Or anything else. I-I was startled. That is all. Please. Stay."
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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Her heart was racing so fast she could hear its pounding footsteps in her ears, nearly overpowering all other sensations. This was not the situation she had expected to find herself in. Alone in a hot springs, in front of the woman she may soon call friend, completely nude. Her face flushed pink, utterly embarrassed. She absolutely hated the idea of anyone seeing her naked, let alone Athanasia. What was she going to do? How was she going to. . . Face her again? This was it. Her life was over. Ruined. Stopped. Destroyed. There was no coming back from this. She was done.
Until she mentioned that the light was dim, and hard to see. Oh. Right. Of course. Flushing even harder, she just nodded, and slowly lowered herself into the water. It was hot. Refreshingly so. She could feel the heat sapping at her muscles, draining them of tension. It was easy to forget all about ones problems inside of these waters. Easy to forget the thoughts that plagued ones mind. At least until she was reminded of the others presence.
The question came out plainly enough. A simple one. 'How are you liking Colchis so far? Daniil lowered herself until the water was lapping at her chin, giving the least chance that any of her could be seen. How to answer that question appropriately? She did not wish to deceive her friend, but she was not used to people caring about how much she liked nor disliked something. A strange feeling. But far from unwelcome.
"Colchis is. . ." She struggled to find the word, her eyes moving towards the moon above. "Unusual, to me. Different. Much different from home. Not to say I did not enjoy my time here, for I most certainly did. It is just. . . different. I certainly hope to return one day." Her eyes moved from the moon to Athanasia, and a small smile poked at her lips. "Or perhaps one day I might be able to see you in Athenia?"
Daniil truly did wish to see the woman again. She was kind, carefree, confident, beautiful. It was not often that Daniil took the time to consider her words and actions for the benefit of another. But it was also not often that she found herself in the company of one she found to be worthy of such consideration, nor the effort of maintaining such good rapport. She wished to have Athanasia's friendship. She wished to speak with her more, and see her again.
Perhaps that was why her implied leaving made her panic. "No!" Daniil was so startled she nearly shouted the word out, her body popping up before she remembered where they were, and sinking back down, her eyes glancing back at the water. "No, please. Do not leave. I. . . I wish for you to stay. I apologize if I have offended you, truly I do, for it was not my intent. I. . ." She swallowed dryly, her face flushing again. "No one has ever seen me. . . like that. Like this. Without my chiton. Or anything else. I-I was startled. That is all. Please. Stay."
Her heart was racing so fast she could hear its pounding footsteps in her ears, nearly overpowering all other sensations. This was not the situation she had expected to find herself in. Alone in a hot springs, in front of the woman she may soon call friend, completely nude. Her face flushed pink, utterly embarrassed. She absolutely hated the idea of anyone seeing her naked, let alone Athanasia. What was she going to do? How was she going to. . . Face her again? This was it. Her life was over. Ruined. Stopped. Destroyed. There was no coming back from this. She was done.
Until she mentioned that the light was dim, and hard to see. Oh. Right. Of course. Flushing even harder, she just nodded, and slowly lowered herself into the water. It was hot. Refreshingly so. She could feel the heat sapping at her muscles, draining them of tension. It was easy to forget all about ones problems inside of these waters. Easy to forget the thoughts that plagued ones mind. At least until she was reminded of the others presence.
The question came out plainly enough. A simple one. 'How are you liking Colchis so far? Daniil lowered herself until the water was lapping at her chin, giving the least chance that any of her could be seen. How to answer that question appropriately? She did not wish to deceive her friend, but she was not used to people caring about how much she liked nor disliked something. A strange feeling. But far from unwelcome.
"Colchis is. . ." She struggled to find the word, her eyes moving towards the moon above. "Unusual, to me. Different. Much different from home. Not to say I did not enjoy my time here, for I most certainly did. It is just. . . different. I certainly hope to return one day." Her eyes moved from the moon to Athanasia, and a small smile poked at her lips. "Or perhaps one day I might be able to see you in Athenia?"
Daniil truly did wish to see the woman again. She was kind, carefree, confident, beautiful. It was not often that Daniil took the time to consider her words and actions for the benefit of another. But it was also not often that she found herself in the company of one she found to be worthy of such consideration, nor the effort of maintaining such good rapport. She wished to have Athanasia's friendship. She wished to speak with her more, and see her again.
Perhaps that was why her implied leaving made her panic. "No!" Daniil was so startled she nearly shouted the word out, her body popping up before she remembered where they were, and sinking back down, her eyes glancing back at the water. "No, please. Do not leave. I. . . I wish for you to stay. I apologize if I have offended you, truly I do, for it was not my intent. I. . ." She swallowed dryly, her face flushing again. "No one has ever seen me. . . like that. Like this. Without my chiton. Or anything else. I-I was startled. That is all. Please. Stay."
Athanasia could see just fine with the dim lighting, having hunted by the moonlight more times than she could remember, so she could see the embarrassment clear on Daniil's face when she realized the pool was not actually empty at all. It was a good thing though that this was the pool for the women, Athanasia did not even want to imagine what that kind of embarrassment felt like. She was ok with another female around, it wasn't unlike those moments when her mother or any other female was around. They relatively looked the same in most respects, so Athanasia never gave it any thought. She had never seen a man naked thankfully. Her brothers never ran around like that, thankfully. She had heard stories though, of how men seemed to like running around in such a state. Athanasia wasn't without an education though, she had seen statues and seen scrolls with diagrams on the body, so she had an idea on how they were different, even if she never understood why some extra appendage seemed to give them some sort of upper hand over women. She highly doubted that they could use it like an elephant's trunk. One, it wasn't big enough to do anything special with and two, with how immature some men were she would not be surprised if they swung it around in the open like that while picking things up if they could.
Come to think of it, maybe that was why women were not allowed to watch the Olympics? Because such a sight would surely be too hysterical and no man would ever find a woman who would ever take them seriously ever again. Her mind was roaming while Daniil climbed the rest of the way into the pool, while Asia looked away to give her a sense of privacy. She had moved to the other side of the pool before settling in, opening the conversation with something simple on how she liked Colchis. Daniil's answer made Athanasia smile. From what she has heard, it sounded like it was indeed different from other nations. "What is different about it? I have heard it was different from most places, definitely different from Taengea. I do not really remember Athenia much, though I hear it is very beautiful." Seeing Daniil's smile, Athanasia returned it with one of her own right as her new friend surprised her with her comment. "I would hope so one day, if I am allowed to visit." For a moment she was reminded of another Athenian telling her about his nation, prompting her next question, "Where would your favorite place be in Athenia if you could show me?"
Daniil reminded Asia a lot of herself, though possibly a little quieter. There seemed to be a wildness in her that Athanasia recognized, defiant and unwilling to allow men to just say or take what they wanted. It was the one thing that drew her to Daniil, after hearing the whispers that she was wild and unruly, an expert swordsman who even put most men to shame. Athanasia knew she just had to meet her, so even though the circumstances were not pleasant on how they met, it was fortuatise just the same. So when she could clearly see the woman's discomfort and embarrassment, Athanasia thought to offer a way out. An option for her to leave and give Daniil privacy all at the same time. She was not expecting the sudden shout though, making Athanasia jump in surprise before she let out a giggle. Daniil truly did remind Asia of herself, so much so that she was still smiling as the woman spoke in a rushed manner while she shook her head. She could see the nerves and the quick motions about her, Asia knew the feeling when she felt like she got caught doing something she shouldn't. "You did not offend me, there is no need to apologize at all. I thought you wanted some privacy, and didn't want you to feel.." What was the word that she was looking for, it wasn't overwhelmed or bullied.. maybe.. "crowded." Calling a servant over, she requested that a glass of cool wine be brought to Lady Daniil. She knew that wine helped nerves often, at least they did for her at dinner, and on the night she met her friend Aea too. Asia kept quiet till the servant returned and left the goblet at the edge of the pool where Daniil could reach it before leaving again. "I did not want to leave, to be honest. It feels like dinner wasn't long enough for conversation, also with all the ears around, I didn't know what was prudent to ask about or not." That was as delicate as she could put it, sure the rumors and reputation of Daniil and her swordsmanship were almost legendary in Asia's eyes but she also didn't want to ask about that with her grandfather right there. What if he didn't know? She did not want to place her new potential friend into trouble because of her slip of the tongue. So now that they were alone, they could talk freely, and Asia said as much as well. "Since it is just us, you can ask me anything or we can talk about anything you would like. I don't mind. One thing.. if I may ask.." Now it was Asia's turn to feel a little shy, her admiration was showing in her eyes as she took a sip of wine from her own goblet that she picked back up from not too far away from Daniil's cup. "Is it true that you are an expert with the short sword?"
Athene
Athanasia
Athene
Athanasia
Awards
First Impressions:Leggy; Warm, bronze-colored eyes; thick wavy hair & an easy smile.
Address: Your Royal Highness
Athanasia could see just fine with the dim lighting, having hunted by the moonlight more times than she could remember, so she could see the embarrassment clear on Daniil's face when she realized the pool was not actually empty at all. It was a good thing though that this was the pool for the women, Athanasia did not even want to imagine what that kind of embarrassment felt like. She was ok with another female around, it wasn't unlike those moments when her mother or any other female was around. They relatively looked the same in most respects, so Athanasia never gave it any thought. She had never seen a man naked thankfully. Her brothers never ran around like that, thankfully. She had heard stories though, of how men seemed to like running around in such a state. Athanasia wasn't without an education though, she had seen statues and seen scrolls with diagrams on the body, so she had an idea on how they were different, even if she never understood why some extra appendage seemed to give them some sort of upper hand over women. She highly doubted that they could use it like an elephant's trunk. One, it wasn't big enough to do anything special with and two, with how immature some men were she would not be surprised if they swung it around in the open like that while picking things up if they could.
Come to think of it, maybe that was why women were not allowed to watch the Olympics? Because such a sight would surely be too hysterical and no man would ever find a woman who would ever take them seriously ever again. Her mind was roaming while Daniil climbed the rest of the way into the pool, while Asia looked away to give her a sense of privacy. She had moved to the other side of the pool before settling in, opening the conversation with something simple on how she liked Colchis. Daniil's answer made Athanasia smile. From what she has heard, it sounded like it was indeed different from other nations. "What is different about it? I have heard it was different from most places, definitely different from Taengea. I do not really remember Athenia much, though I hear it is very beautiful." Seeing Daniil's smile, Athanasia returned it with one of her own right as her new friend surprised her with her comment. "I would hope so one day, if I am allowed to visit." For a moment she was reminded of another Athenian telling her about his nation, prompting her next question, "Where would your favorite place be in Athenia if you could show me?"
Daniil reminded Asia a lot of herself, though possibly a little quieter. There seemed to be a wildness in her that Athanasia recognized, defiant and unwilling to allow men to just say or take what they wanted. It was the one thing that drew her to Daniil, after hearing the whispers that she was wild and unruly, an expert swordsman who even put most men to shame. Athanasia knew she just had to meet her, so even though the circumstances were not pleasant on how they met, it was fortuatise just the same. So when she could clearly see the woman's discomfort and embarrassment, Athanasia thought to offer a way out. An option for her to leave and give Daniil privacy all at the same time. She was not expecting the sudden shout though, making Athanasia jump in surprise before she let out a giggle. Daniil truly did remind Asia of herself, so much so that she was still smiling as the woman spoke in a rushed manner while she shook her head. She could see the nerves and the quick motions about her, Asia knew the feeling when she felt like she got caught doing something she shouldn't. "You did not offend me, there is no need to apologize at all. I thought you wanted some privacy, and didn't want you to feel.." What was the word that she was looking for, it wasn't overwhelmed or bullied.. maybe.. "crowded." Calling a servant over, she requested that a glass of cool wine be brought to Lady Daniil. She knew that wine helped nerves often, at least they did for her at dinner, and on the night she met her friend Aea too. Asia kept quiet till the servant returned and left the goblet at the edge of the pool where Daniil could reach it before leaving again. "I did not want to leave, to be honest. It feels like dinner wasn't long enough for conversation, also with all the ears around, I didn't know what was prudent to ask about or not." That was as delicate as she could put it, sure the rumors and reputation of Daniil and her swordsmanship were almost legendary in Asia's eyes but she also didn't want to ask about that with her grandfather right there. What if he didn't know? She did not want to place her new potential friend into trouble because of her slip of the tongue. So now that they were alone, they could talk freely, and Asia said as much as well. "Since it is just us, you can ask me anything or we can talk about anything you would like. I don't mind. One thing.. if I may ask.." Now it was Asia's turn to feel a little shy, her admiration was showing in her eyes as she took a sip of wine from her own goblet that she picked back up from not too far away from Daniil's cup. "Is it true that you are an expert with the short sword?"
Athanasia could see just fine with the dim lighting, having hunted by the moonlight more times than she could remember, so she could see the embarrassment clear on Daniil's face when she realized the pool was not actually empty at all. It was a good thing though that this was the pool for the women, Athanasia did not even want to imagine what that kind of embarrassment felt like. She was ok with another female around, it wasn't unlike those moments when her mother or any other female was around. They relatively looked the same in most respects, so Athanasia never gave it any thought. She had never seen a man naked thankfully. Her brothers never ran around like that, thankfully. She had heard stories though, of how men seemed to like running around in such a state. Athanasia wasn't without an education though, she had seen statues and seen scrolls with diagrams on the body, so she had an idea on how they were different, even if she never understood why some extra appendage seemed to give them some sort of upper hand over women. She highly doubted that they could use it like an elephant's trunk. One, it wasn't big enough to do anything special with and two, with how immature some men were she would not be surprised if they swung it around in the open like that while picking things up if they could.
Come to think of it, maybe that was why women were not allowed to watch the Olympics? Because such a sight would surely be too hysterical and no man would ever find a woman who would ever take them seriously ever again. Her mind was roaming while Daniil climbed the rest of the way into the pool, while Asia looked away to give her a sense of privacy. She had moved to the other side of the pool before settling in, opening the conversation with something simple on how she liked Colchis. Daniil's answer made Athanasia smile. From what she has heard, it sounded like it was indeed different from other nations. "What is different about it? I have heard it was different from most places, definitely different from Taengea. I do not really remember Athenia much, though I hear it is very beautiful." Seeing Daniil's smile, Athanasia returned it with one of her own right as her new friend surprised her with her comment. "I would hope so one day, if I am allowed to visit." For a moment she was reminded of another Athenian telling her about his nation, prompting her next question, "Where would your favorite place be in Athenia if you could show me?"
Daniil reminded Asia a lot of herself, though possibly a little quieter. There seemed to be a wildness in her that Athanasia recognized, defiant and unwilling to allow men to just say or take what they wanted. It was the one thing that drew her to Daniil, after hearing the whispers that she was wild and unruly, an expert swordsman who even put most men to shame. Athanasia knew she just had to meet her, so even though the circumstances were not pleasant on how they met, it was fortuatise just the same. So when she could clearly see the woman's discomfort and embarrassment, Athanasia thought to offer a way out. An option for her to leave and give Daniil privacy all at the same time. She was not expecting the sudden shout though, making Athanasia jump in surprise before she let out a giggle. Daniil truly did remind Asia of herself, so much so that she was still smiling as the woman spoke in a rushed manner while she shook her head. She could see the nerves and the quick motions about her, Asia knew the feeling when she felt like she got caught doing something she shouldn't. "You did not offend me, there is no need to apologize at all. I thought you wanted some privacy, and didn't want you to feel.." What was the word that she was looking for, it wasn't overwhelmed or bullied.. maybe.. "crowded." Calling a servant over, she requested that a glass of cool wine be brought to Lady Daniil. She knew that wine helped nerves often, at least they did for her at dinner, and on the night she met her friend Aea too. Asia kept quiet till the servant returned and left the goblet at the edge of the pool where Daniil could reach it before leaving again. "I did not want to leave, to be honest. It feels like dinner wasn't long enough for conversation, also with all the ears around, I didn't know what was prudent to ask about or not." That was as delicate as she could put it, sure the rumors and reputation of Daniil and her swordsmanship were almost legendary in Asia's eyes but she also didn't want to ask about that with her grandfather right there. What if he didn't know? She did not want to place her new potential friend into trouble because of her slip of the tongue. So now that they were alone, they could talk freely, and Asia said as much as well. "Since it is just us, you can ask me anything or we can talk about anything you would like. I don't mind. One thing.. if I may ask.." Now it was Asia's turn to feel a little shy, her admiration was showing in her eyes as she took a sip of wine from her own goblet that she picked back up from not too far away from Daniil's cup. "Is it true that you are an expert with the short sword?"
If she was forced to be in an environment in which she was to be completely nude in the company of another, there were far worse options. The companionship provided by the Kotas princess was enjoyable. Athanasia was kind, fierce, and outspoken. There were similarities between the two young women that Daniil could not deny, although Athanasia seemed to be more at peace with herself from an outside perspective. Admiration from afar had seen Daniil paying attention to information about the Kotas woman that reached Athenia. Although she had been quite reluctant to make the journey to Colchis, one of the most promising aspects of just such an adventure was meeting the woman now bathing with her.
As she soaked in the hot waters of the springs, feeling the heat course through her, she felt her embarrassment and inhibitions begin to melt away into the water. Her flushed face began to cool from a deep red to a light pink, the heat of the water now the only cause of tinges of color in her cheeks. Perhaps being so embarrassed by the exposure of her body had been somewhat silly in retrospect. They were both women, and none had anything to their physical forms strange to each other. And they were simply soaking. Nothing more. A smile tugged at her lips, if only a slight one.
Different? What was different about Colchis. Daniil had to consider that for a long moment, chewing on her answer. "Colchis is high up. Higher than I am used to. In Athenia, the land is flat, with rolling plains along the cliffsides of the fingers. Your home is hot, and dusty, and the rains are so much more than Athenia. One might be tempted to call it miserable, even, but I do not believe that. Your home is hardy. Defiant. It stands in contrast to the sea around it that would see it drowned and destroyed. I admire its beauty, harsh and desolate as it may be." The comment about being allowed to visit made Daniil scoff. "If there is one advantage to royal blood, it is the ability to have guests. I may not be a princess, but to my chagrin the blood of kings runs in my veins the same as yours. You have only to say the word and I would gladly receive you in Athenia." The final question made her pause once more. When she spoke again, it was with a somber nostalgia born of years of secrecy. "There is a hill, not far from the prison that wears the skin of the Archontiko Marikas, that has upon it an olive tree. It has a view of the countryside around it, allowing one to keep an eye out for any approaching for some distance. I discovered it when I was but a girl, and when I desire to be alone, that is where I travel. Some days, I spend hours there, doing what I wish to instead of what is expected of me."
Athanasia's observations about dinner had the young Marikas nodding along, leaning forward slightly and disturbing the water around her. As the goblet of wine was left for her, she nodded her thanks and picked it up, taking one long drink of the fine wine before she spoke. "I found the occasion to be rather grandiose. An example of the games played by those that deign to declare themselves our leaders to gain more of the prestige and honor they so seek, and never seem to have enough of. Personally, I would have rather spent my time among the common folk of Colchis, or the army. But expectations for those of my birth are ever-present and oppressive."
The blush returned to her cheeks as the comment about her swordsman ship was asked, and Daniil laughed nervously as she rubbed the back of her neck abashedly. "Expert? A rather generous description, I believe. I hold some skill with the short sword, it is true, but I have never received formal training. I am entirely self-taught, and only years of daily practice and trial and error have given me what little skill I have. I am far more interested as to the truth of the rumors of your own skill with the bow, Athanasia."
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If she was forced to be in an environment in which she was to be completely nude in the company of another, there were far worse options. The companionship provided by the Kotas princess was enjoyable. Athanasia was kind, fierce, and outspoken. There were similarities between the two young women that Daniil could not deny, although Athanasia seemed to be more at peace with herself from an outside perspective. Admiration from afar had seen Daniil paying attention to information about the Kotas woman that reached Athenia. Although she had been quite reluctant to make the journey to Colchis, one of the most promising aspects of just such an adventure was meeting the woman now bathing with her.
As she soaked in the hot waters of the springs, feeling the heat course through her, she felt her embarrassment and inhibitions begin to melt away into the water. Her flushed face began to cool from a deep red to a light pink, the heat of the water now the only cause of tinges of color in her cheeks. Perhaps being so embarrassed by the exposure of her body had been somewhat silly in retrospect. They were both women, and none had anything to their physical forms strange to each other. And they were simply soaking. Nothing more. A smile tugged at her lips, if only a slight one.
Different? What was different about Colchis. Daniil had to consider that for a long moment, chewing on her answer. "Colchis is high up. Higher than I am used to. In Athenia, the land is flat, with rolling plains along the cliffsides of the fingers. Your home is hot, and dusty, and the rains are so much more than Athenia. One might be tempted to call it miserable, even, but I do not believe that. Your home is hardy. Defiant. It stands in contrast to the sea around it that would see it drowned and destroyed. I admire its beauty, harsh and desolate as it may be." The comment about being allowed to visit made Daniil scoff. "If there is one advantage to royal blood, it is the ability to have guests. I may not be a princess, but to my chagrin the blood of kings runs in my veins the same as yours. You have only to say the word and I would gladly receive you in Athenia." The final question made her pause once more. When she spoke again, it was with a somber nostalgia born of years of secrecy. "There is a hill, not far from the prison that wears the skin of the Archontiko Marikas, that has upon it an olive tree. It has a view of the countryside around it, allowing one to keep an eye out for any approaching for some distance. I discovered it when I was but a girl, and when I desire to be alone, that is where I travel. Some days, I spend hours there, doing what I wish to instead of what is expected of me."
Athanasia's observations about dinner had the young Marikas nodding along, leaning forward slightly and disturbing the water around her. As the goblet of wine was left for her, she nodded her thanks and picked it up, taking one long drink of the fine wine before she spoke. "I found the occasion to be rather grandiose. An example of the games played by those that deign to declare themselves our leaders to gain more of the prestige and honor they so seek, and never seem to have enough of. Personally, I would have rather spent my time among the common folk of Colchis, or the army. But expectations for those of my birth are ever-present and oppressive."
The blush returned to her cheeks as the comment about her swordsman ship was asked, and Daniil laughed nervously as she rubbed the back of her neck abashedly. "Expert? A rather generous description, I believe. I hold some skill with the short sword, it is true, but I have never received formal training. I am entirely self-taught, and only years of daily practice and trial and error have given me what little skill I have. I am far more interested as to the truth of the rumors of your own skill with the bow, Athanasia."
If she was forced to be in an environment in which she was to be completely nude in the company of another, there were far worse options. The companionship provided by the Kotas princess was enjoyable. Athanasia was kind, fierce, and outspoken. There were similarities between the two young women that Daniil could not deny, although Athanasia seemed to be more at peace with herself from an outside perspective. Admiration from afar had seen Daniil paying attention to information about the Kotas woman that reached Athenia. Although she had been quite reluctant to make the journey to Colchis, one of the most promising aspects of just such an adventure was meeting the woman now bathing with her.
As she soaked in the hot waters of the springs, feeling the heat course through her, she felt her embarrassment and inhibitions begin to melt away into the water. Her flushed face began to cool from a deep red to a light pink, the heat of the water now the only cause of tinges of color in her cheeks. Perhaps being so embarrassed by the exposure of her body had been somewhat silly in retrospect. They were both women, and none had anything to their physical forms strange to each other. And they were simply soaking. Nothing more. A smile tugged at her lips, if only a slight one.
Different? What was different about Colchis. Daniil had to consider that for a long moment, chewing on her answer. "Colchis is high up. Higher than I am used to. In Athenia, the land is flat, with rolling plains along the cliffsides of the fingers. Your home is hot, and dusty, and the rains are so much more than Athenia. One might be tempted to call it miserable, even, but I do not believe that. Your home is hardy. Defiant. It stands in contrast to the sea around it that would see it drowned and destroyed. I admire its beauty, harsh and desolate as it may be." The comment about being allowed to visit made Daniil scoff. "If there is one advantage to royal blood, it is the ability to have guests. I may not be a princess, but to my chagrin the blood of kings runs in my veins the same as yours. You have only to say the word and I would gladly receive you in Athenia." The final question made her pause once more. When she spoke again, it was with a somber nostalgia born of years of secrecy. "There is a hill, not far from the prison that wears the skin of the Archontiko Marikas, that has upon it an olive tree. It has a view of the countryside around it, allowing one to keep an eye out for any approaching for some distance. I discovered it when I was but a girl, and when I desire to be alone, that is where I travel. Some days, I spend hours there, doing what I wish to instead of what is expected of me."
Athanasia's observations about dinner had the young Marikas nodding along, leaning forward slightly and disturbing the water around her. As the goblet of wine was left for her, she nodded her thanks and picked it up, taking one long drink of the fine wine before she spoke. "I found the occasion to be rather grandiose. An example of the games played by those that deign to declare themselves our leaders to gain more of the prestige and honor they so seek, and never seem to have enough of. Personally, I would have rather spent my time among the common folk of Colchis, or the army. But expectations for those of my birth are ever-present and oppressive."
The blush returned to her cheeks as the comment about her swordsman ship was asked, and Daniil laughed nervously as she rubbed the back of her neck abashedly. "Expert? A rather generous description, I believe. I hold some skill with the short sword, it is true, but I have never received formal training. I am entirely self-taught, and only years of daily practice and trial and error have given me what little skill I have. I am far more interested as to the truth of the rumors of your own skill with the bow, Athanasia."
The water was so warm, it was relaxing, so relaxing in fact that her mind wandered to things that she never should have thought about. About men, about a man, about the amusement that it would be to see that men were just as childish as she always thought. Leaning against the wall on the other side, Athanasia leaned her head back to let the hot water message her scalp, like long fingers that ran through her hair. She could hear Daniil easily but the moment she thought of long, slim fingers rubbing her scalp, Asia sat up quickly. Nope. Not going there. To have her mind think of something else, Athanasia asked Daniil what she thought about Colchis.
Most would not find her home very hospitable with the weather and terrain, but she loved it. So when Daniil commented on it being different without saying much else, she could not help but ask what she meant by it. Different could mean either good or bad, and it was not always clear on how it was meant to be taken. It was kind of nice when Daniil seemed to take a moment to answer, looking like she was deep in thought before she spoke up. 'Colchis is high up. Higher than I am used to. In Athenia, the land is flat, with rolling plains along the cliff sides of the fingers. Your home is hot, and dusty, and the rains are so much more than Athenia. One might be tempted to call it miserable, even, but I do not believe that. Your home is hardy. Defiant. It stands in contrast to the sea around it that would see it drowned and destroyed. I admire its beauty, harsh and desolate as it may be.' Athanasia listened as Daniil spoke of her home and of Athenia, Asia could only smile as she nodded her agreement. “You should see Colchis in the winter months. Demeter is so sad that Persephone is with Hades, it snows here. Everything is covered in a layer of ice and is so cold. It can be seen as harsh, though I have never seen it. I ran through many of the wooded areas around my home. The streams are cold if they are not hot springs like this one, there is life everywhere. Thank you, for your honesty. I like that you like my home, I can not imagine lands that are flat. That would be something to see...” She could see that the woman before her still seemed troubled over something. Her comments on the land being strong and defiant even as she was still slow to relax made Asia wonder if she was still thinking about the day before, or a moment similar to what had transpired that day. From what she had seen of Daniil, she knew that this woman was strong as Colchis iron, and Asia planned to remind her of that very fact. Taking a handful of the mud that was surrounding them in the pool, Athanasia moved closer to Daniil and held out her hand to her with the mud coating her fingers. “Here. The mud here is said to be good for your skin, and it can also be used as an act of take a bit of it home with you as it seeps into your skin and strengthens your very heart. So you have a piece of Colchis with you and become just as defiant as great goddess Gaia as she sleeps under our feet.” Athanasia was smiling as she said this, meaning it as a good sign to be able to share a bit of Colchis with another who could appreciate it for the beauty it was.
Taking her muddy fingers, Asia moved closer to Daniil as she moved cautiously. She wouldn't touch her if Daniil moved away, but if she allowed it, Asia would drag her fingers lightly across her new friend's cheeks. It left two black angled lines under each eye and followed with two lines down her chin. Taking her other hand, she grabbed more of the black mud, making a few lines across Daniil's shoulders and collarbone, careful not to go any lower as she made the dark lines. Now Asia smiled even bigger, “Now you have the lines of a warrior of Athena, the lines make you fierce and bold like the goddess, this land, and its people. The lines on your chin, to remind you to lift it in defiance when anyone crowds your space. You have the same strength of Colchis, I can see it in your eyes. The next time a person crowds you and makes you feel less than, punch them right in the mouth. If they are too tall, aim for the throat.” She knew of the war paint markings that were made in honor of Athena, even though her family worshipped the god Ares, but the two worked hand in hand. So Athanasia made it a point to learn all their stories. As the talk progressed, Asia was firm as she referenced back to a moment the day before. Athanasia met Daniil's gaze and held it, the corners lifting as if she were smiling though her mouth did not move. “If it happens here in Colchis and anyone tries to tell you that you can't, tell them that Princess Athanasia said that you could, and that they need to back the fuck up. If they don't, they won't be breathing for much longer.” The look on her face did not hide the anger that still simmered just under the surface when she thought of how a captian of Colchis could act in such a way.
Asia didn't usually give serious speech moments, usually opting for smiles and humor, but when she did get there she made it a point. Moving so she was sitting a little more than an arm's length away, Asia called for more wine for them both as she rinsed her hand in the water. Turning the conversation back to Athenia, Athanasia laughed when Daniil scoffed at her comment about being allowed to go somewhere. “Well, with my super protective brothers and parents, they usually keep me here in Colchis. Though I have been known to jump on a boat to go visit my brothers, but they usually yell at me when I do that.” Asia still snickered when she thought of Silas' shock and annoyance when she showed up at his camp randomly. Hearing that Daniil would gladly accept her visit, it made her smile even more. “I would actually really like that. To be able to see your home and the places you like. When should we plan for the visit? I would like to have you visit here again, if possible, when winter comes. I think you might like the snow. Also, hitting Yiannis in the face with a snowball is always so fun. Vangelis too, when you catch him off guard.” She was giggling as she spoke before they spoke about their favorite places as she sipped her wine. Asia smiled at Daniil's response to her favorite spot in all of Athenia. It was so nice to hear that it was a spot instead of a place, it was easier to picture. “I can understand that, I have two favorite places that are similar. Not that you can see for miles or anything, but they are small and mine. One is a cave I found and the other is a lake with a waterfall. It is nice because no one has seemed to know it is even there, even the animals seem to give those spaces some distance. It is peaceful and somewhere I can just.. be.”
Was it strange to be able to relax completely naked next to someone that has become a new friend, water being your only cover? Somehow it was just that. Athanasia was relaxed almost to the point that she was tempted to float in the water, but that would remove the water blanket that she had covering her. So instead, she leaned back against the wall, her wine cup in her hand as she sat near Daniil. They spoke about the dinner, Asia admitting that she had fun, though she didn't ask for everything she wanted either. Hinting at being overheard by her grandfather, neither one wanted that to happen. So when Daniil commented on the dinner being too fancy, actually preferring time among the common folks and army men, it made Asia smile. She found that she has been doing that a lot so far, almost to the point that her cheeks actually cramped at her joy. “I agree. I usually try to share what I have with the common folk, be it coins or kills so they can have full bellies. Military, I usually don't hang around often unless it is training. My brothers are all commanders, generals, and captains; so it is hard to avoid and hide among them. I do try though, Silas got me boots to look more like a soldier when I snuck in. Maybe I will be able to take you with me and sneak you in too?” It was a thought, though if caught there was a very good chance she would be in trouble, but Daniil would be fine. Asia would just say it was her idea. Usually it is anyways.
When Athanasia finally dared to bring up the rumors on Daniil's swordsmanship, she was not expecting the shy response she got. “From the rumors that I have heard, you are quite formidable. I learned a couple things from Vangelis when I was younger, but I could never fully catch on. I was always better with my dagger. I would not sell myself short though, if I was you. Self-taught is not something to disregard. I bet you are amazing, and would love it if you could show me some tips and tricks one day.” Daniil brought up Athanasia's archery and she ducked her head as she smiled. “I am not sure what you have heard. I have been learning archery since I was very small. Zanon gave me my first bow when I was 7. It takes patience but I can shoot a rabbit through the eye, almost every time. Though I have missed, but that is normal. I always try to go for the quick kills, to avoid the pain for them. Have you ever practiced archery?” Her interest seemed very keen on the subject but Asia had never heard anything about archery with Daniil. "What would you say is your favorite activity to do? Something that makes you happy no matter what."
Athene
Athanasia
Athene
Athanasia
Awards
First Impressions:Leggy; Warm, bronze-colored eyes; thick wavy hair & an easy smile.
Address: Your Royal Highness
The water was so warm, it was relaxing, so relaxing in fact that her mind wandered to things that she never should have thought about. About men, about a man, about the amusement that it would be to see that men were just as childish as she always thought. Leaning against the wall on the other side, Athanasia leaned her head back to let the hot water message her scalp, like long fingers that ran through her hair. She could hear Daniil easily but the moment she thought of long, slim fingers rubbing her scalp, Asia sat up quickly. Nope. Not going there. To have her mind think of something else, Athanasia asked Daniil what she thought about Colchis.
Most would not find her home very hospitable with the weather and terrain, but she loved it. So when Daniil commented on it being different without saying much else, she could not help but ask what she meant by it. Different could mean either good or bad, and it was not always clear on how it was meant to be taken. It was kind of nice when Daniil seemed to take a moment to answer, looking like she was deep in thought before she spoke up. 'Colchis is high up. Higher than I am used to. In Athenia, the land is flat, with rolling plains along the cliff sides of the fingers. Your home is hot, and dusty, and the rains are so much more than Athenia. One might be tempted to call it miserable, even, but I do not believe that. Your home is hardy. Defiant. It stands in contrast to the sea around it that would see it drowned and destroyed. I admire its beauty, harsh and desolate as it may be.' Athanasia listened as Daniil spoke of her home and of Athenia, Asia could only smile as she nodded her agreement. “You should see Colchis in the winter months. Demeter is so sad that Persephone is with Hades, it snows here. Everything is covered in a layer of ice and is so cold. It can be seen as harsh, though I have never seen it. I ran through many of the wooded areas around my home. The streams are cold if they are not hot springs like this one, there is life everywhere. Thank you, for your honesty. I like that you like my home, I can not imagine lands that are flat. That would be something to see...” She could see that the woman before her still seemed troubled over something. Her comments on the land being strong and defiant even as she was still slow to relax made Asia wonder if she was still thinking about the day before, or a moment similar to what had transpired that day. From what she had seen of Daniil, she knew that this woman was strong as Colchis iron, and Asia planned to remind her of that very fact. Taking a handful of the mud that was surrounding them in the pool, Athanasia moved closer to Daniil and held out her hand to her with the mud coating her fingers. “Here. The mud here is said to be good for your skin, and it can also be used as an act of take a bit of it home with you as it seeps into your skin and strengthens your very heart. So you have a piece of Colchis with you and become just as defiant as great goddess Gaia as she sleeps under our feet.” Athanasia was smiling as she said this, meaning it as a good sign to be able to share a bit of Colchis with another who could appreciate it for the beauty it was.
Taking her muddy fingers, Asia moved closer to Daniil as she moved cautiously. She wouldn't touch her if Daniil moved away, but if she allowed it, Asia would drag her fingers lightly across her new friend's cheeks. It left two black angled lines under each eye and followed with two lines down her chin. Taking her other hand, she grabbed more of the black mud, making a few lines across Daniil's shoulders and collarbone, careful not to go any lower as she made the dark lines. Now Asia smiled even bigger, “Now you have the lines of a warrior of Athena, the lines make you fierce and bold like the goddess, this land, and its people. The lines on your chin, to remind you to lift it in defiance when anyone crowds your space. You have the same strength of Colchis, I can see it in your eyes. The next time a person crowds you and makes you feel less than, punch them right in the mouth. If they are too tall, aim for the throat.” She knew of the war paint markings that were made in honor of Athena, even though her family worshipped the god Ares, but the two worked hand in hand. So Athanasia made it a point to learn all their stories. As the talk progressed, Asia was firm as she referenced back to a moment the day before. Athanasia met Daniil's gaze and held it, the corners lifting as if she were smiling though her mouth did not move. “If it happens here in Colchis and anyone tries to tell you that you can't, tell them that Princess Athanasia said that you could, and that they need to back the fuck up. If they don't, they won't be breathing for much longer.” The look on her face did not hide the anger that still simmered just under the surface when she thought of how a captian of Colchis could act in such a way.
Asia didn't usually give serious speech moments, usually opting for smiles and humor, but when she did get there she made it a point. Moving so she was sitting a little more than an arm's length away, Asia called for more wine for them both as she rinsed her hand in the water. Turning the conversation back to Athenia, Athanasia laughed when Daniil scoffed at her comment about being allowed to go somewhere. “Well, with my super protective brothers and parents, they usually keep me here in Colchis. Though I have been known to jump on a boat to go visit my brothers, but they usually yell at me when I do that.” Asia still snickered when she thought of Silas' shock and annoyance when she showed up at his camp randomly. Hearing that Daniil would gladly accept her visit, it made her smile even more. “I would actually really like that. To be able to see your home and the places you like. When should we plan for the visit? I would like to have you visit here again, if possible, when winter comes. I think you might like the snow. Also, hitting Yiannis in the face with a snowball is always so fun. Vangelis too, when you catch him off guard.” She was giggling as she spoke before they spoke about their favorite places as she sipped her wine. Asia smiled at Daniil's response to her favorite spot in all of Athenia. It was so nice to hear that it was a spot instead of a place, it was easier to picture. “I can understand that, I have two favorite places that are similar. Not that you can see for miles or anything, but they are small and mine. One is a cave I found and the other is a lake with a waterfall. It is nice because no one has seemed to know it is even there, even the animals seem to give those spaces some distance. It is peaceful and somewhere I can just.. be.”
Was it strange to be able to relax completely naked next to someone that has become a new friend, water being your only cover? Somehow it was just that. Athanasia was relaxed almost to the point that she was tempted to float in the water, but that would remove the water blanket that she had covering her. So instead, she leaned back against the wall, her wine cup in her hand as she sat near Daniil. They spoke about the dinner, Asia admitting that she had fun, though she didn't ask for everything she wanted either. Hinting at being overheard by her grandfather, neither one wanted that to happen. So when Daniil commented on the dinner being too fancy, actually preferring time among the common folks and army men, it made Asia smile. She found that she has been doing that a lot so far, almost to the point that her cheeks actually cramped at her joy. “I agree. I usually try to share what I have with the common folk, be it coins or kills so they can have full bellies. Military, I usually don't hang around often unless it is training. My brothers are all commanders, generals, and captains; so it is hard to avoid and hide among them. I do try though, Silas got me boots to look more like a soldier when I snuck in. Maybe I will be able to take you with me and sneak you in too?” It was a thought, though if caught there was a very good chance she would be in trouble, but Daniil would be fine. Asia would just say it was her idea. Usually it is anyways.
When Athanasia finally dared to bring up the rumors on Daniil's swordsmanship, she was not expecting the shy response she got. “From the rumors that I have heard, you are quite formidable. I learned a couple things from Vangelis when I was younger, but I could never fully catch on. I was always better with my dagger. I would not sell myself short though, if I was you. Self-taught is not something to disregard. I bet you are amazing, and would love it if you could show me some tips and tricks one day.” Daniil brought up Athanasia's archery and she ducked her head as she smiled. “I am not sure what you have heard. I have been learning archery since I was very small. Zanon gave me my first bow when I was 7. It takes patience but I can shoot a rabbit through the eye, almost every time. Though I have missed, but that is normal. I always try to go for the quick kills, to avoid the pain for them. Have you ever practiced archery?” Her interest seemed very keen on the subject but Asia had never heard anything about archery with Daniil. "What would you say is your favorite activity to do? Something that makes you happy no matter what."
The water was so warm, it was relaxing, so relaxing in fact that her mind wandered to things that she never should have thought about. About men, about a man, about the amusement that it would be to see that men were just as childish as she always thought. Leaning against the wall on the other side, Athanasia leaned her head back to let the hot water message her scalp, like long fingers that ran through her hair. She could hear Daniil easily but the moment she thought of long, slim fingers rubbing her scalp, Asia sat up quickly. Nope. Not going there. To have her mind think of something else, Athanasia asked Daniil what she thought about Colchis.
Most would not find her home very hospitable with the weather and terrain, but she loved it. So when Daniil commented on it being different without saying much else, she could not help but ask what she meant by it. Different could mean either good or bad, and it was not always clear on how it was meant to be taken. It was kind of nice when Daniil seemed to take a moment to answer, looking like she was deep in thought before she spoke up. 'Colchis is high up. Higher than I am used to. In Athenia, the land is flat, with rolling plains along the cliff sides of the fingers. Your home is hot, and dusty, and the rains are so much more than Athenia. One might be tempted to call it miserable, even, but I do not believe that. Your home is hardy. Defiant. It stands in contrast to the sea around it that would see it drowned and destroyed. I admire its beauty, harsh and desolate as it may be.' Athanasia listened as Daniil spoke of her home and of Athenia, Asia could only smile as she nodded her agreement. “You should see Colchis in the winter months. Demeter is so sad that Persephone is with Hades, it snows here. Everything is covered in a layer of ice and is so cold. It can be seen as harsh, though I have never seen it. I ran through many of the wooded areas around my home. The streams are cold if they are not hot springs like this one, there is life everywhere. Thank you, for your honesty. I like that you like my home, I can not imagine lands that are flat. That would be something to see...” She could see that the woman before her still seemed troubled over something. Her comments on the land being strong and defiant even as she was still slow to relax made Asia wonder if she was still thinking about the day before, or a moment similar to what had transpired that day. From what she had seen of Daniil, she knew that this woman was strong as Colchis iron, and Asia planned to remind her of that very fact. Taking a handful of the mud that was surrounding them in the pool, Athanasia moved closer to Daniil and held out her hand to her with the mud coating her fingers. “Here. The mud here is said to be good for your skin, and it can also be used as an act of take a bit of it home with you as it seeps into your skin and strengthens your very heart. So you have a piece of Colchis with you and become just as defiant as great goddess Gaia as she sleeps under our feet.” Athanasia was smiling as she said this, meaning it as a good sign to be able to share a bit of Colchis with another who could appreciate it for the beauty it was.
Taking her muddy fingers, Asia moved closer to Daniil as she moved cautiously. She wouldn't touch her if Daniil moved away, but if she allowed it, Asia would drag her fingers lightly across her new friend's cheeks. It left two black angled lines under each eye and followed with two lines down her chin. Taking her other hand, she grabbed more of the black mud, making a few lines across Daniil's shoulders and collarbone, careful not to go any lower as she made the dark lines. Now Asia smiled even bigger, “Now you have the lines of a warrior of Athena, the lines make you fierce and bold like the goddess, this land, and its people. The lines on your chin, to remind you to lift it in defiance when anyone crowds your space. You have the same strength of Colchis, I can see it in your eyes. The next time a person crowds you and makes you feel less than, punch them right in the mouth. If they are too tall, aim for the throat.” She knew of the war paint markings that were made in honor of Athena, even though her family worshipped the god Ares, but the two worked hand in hand. So Athanasia made it a point to learn all their stories. As the talk progressed, Asia was firm as she referenced back to a moment the day before. Athanasia met Daniil's gaze and held it, the corners lifting as if she were smiling though her mouth did not move. “If it happens here in Colchis and anyone tries to tell you that you can't, tell them that Princess Athanasia said that you could, and that they need to back the fuck up. If they don't, they won't be breathing for much longer.” The look on her face did not hide the anger that still simmered just under the surface when she thought of how a captian of Colchis could act in such a way.
Asia didn't usually give serious speech moments, usually opting for smiles and humor, but when she did get there she made it a point. Moving so she was sitting a little more than an arm's length away, Asia called for more wine for them both as she rinsed her hand in the water. Turning the conversation back to Athenia, Athanasia laughed when Daniil scoffed at her comment about being allowed to go somewhere. “Well, with my super protective brothers and parents, they usually keep me here in Colchis. Though I have been known to jump on a boat to go visit my brothers, but they usually yell at me when I do that.” Asia still snickered when she thought of Silas' shock and annoyance when she showed up at his camp randomly. Hearing that Daniil would gladly accept her visit, it made her smile even more. “I would actually really like that. To be able to see your home and the places you like. When should we plan for the visit? I would like to have you visit here again, if possible, when winter comes. I think you might like the snow. Also, hitting Yiannis in the face with a snowball is always so fun. Vangelis too, when you catch him off guard.” She was giggling as she spoke before they spoke about their favorite places as she sipped her wine. Asia smiled at Daniil's response to her favorite spot in all of Athenia. It was so nice to hear that it was a spot instead of a place, it was easier to picture. “I can understand that, I have two favorite places that are similar. Not that you can see for miles or anything, but they are small and mine. One is a cave I found and the other is a lake with a waterfall. It is nice because no one has seemed to know it is even there, even the animals seem to give those spaces some distance. It is peaceful and somewhere I can just.. be.”
Was it strange to be able to relax completely naked next to someone that has become a new friend, water being your only cover? Somehow it was just that. Athanasia was relaxed almost to the point that she was tempted to float in the water, but that would remove the water blanket that she had covering her. So instead, she leaned back against the wall, her wine cup in her hand as she sat near Daniil. They spoke about the dinner, Asia admitting that she had fun, though she didn't ask for everything she wanted either. Hinting at being overheard by her grandfather, neither one wanted that to happen. So when Daniil commented on the dinner being too fancy, actually preferring time among the common folks and army men, it made Asia smile. She found that she has been doing that a lot so far, almost to the point that her cheeks actually cramped at her joy. “I agree. I usually try to share what I have with the common folk, be it coins or kills so they can have full bellies. Military, I usually don't hang around often unless it is training. My brothers are all commanders, generals, and captains; so it is hard to avoid and hide among them. I do try though, Silas got me boots to look more like a soldier when I snuck in. Maybe I will be able to take you with me and sneak you in too?” It was a thought, though if caught there was a very good chance she would be in trouble, but Daniil would be fine. Asia would just say it was her idea. Usually it is anyways.
When Athanasia finally dared to bring up the rumors on Daniil's swordsmanship, she was not expecting the shy response she got. “From the rumors that I have heard, you are quite formidable. I learned a couple things from Vangelis when I was younger, but I could never fully catch on. I was always better with my dagger. I would not sell myself short though, if I was you. Self-taught is not something to disregard. I bet you are amazing, and would love it if you could show me some tips and tricks one day.” Daniil brought up Athanasia's archery and she ducked her head as she smiled. “I am not sure what you have heard. I have been learning archery since I was very small. Zanon gave me my first bow when I was 7. It takes patience but I can shoot a rabbit through the eye, almost every time. Though I have missed, but that is normal. I always try to go for the quick kills, to avoid the pain for them. Have you ever practiced archery?” Her interest seemed very keen on the subject but Asia had never heard anything about archery with Daniil. "What would you say is your favorite activity to do? Something that makes you happy no matter what."
'You should see Colchis in the winter months. Demeter is so sad that Persephone is with Hades, it snows here. Everything is covered in a layer of ice and is so cold. It can be seen as harsh, though I have never seen it. I ran through many of the wooded areas around my home. The streams are cold if they are not hot springs like this one, there is life everywhere. Thank you, for your honesty. I like that you like my home, I can not imagine lands that are flat. That would be something to see...'
Snow. It was a foreign concept to the Athenian. Snow did not travel south enough to reach the city where she had spent her life up to that point, meaning she had never been blessed with such a sight. She had read of snow, seen it in paintings, and even heard it described from travelers that made their way around the estate for one reason or another. Yet never had its powdery white substance graced her vision. The concept that she might come back to Colchis and lay her own eyes upon it was an intriguing one. Foreign. But not unwelcome.
"Snow. I have never seen snow. I would like to one day. Perhaps you shall be at my side when it happens, Athanasia."
The next gift that came to her was mud. At first, Daniil was not sure what to make of such a gift. She regarded it cautiously before taking it in hand, the wet substance instantly staining her fingers, seeping through the cracks of her skin and into the water below. But further consideration made her realize how apropos the gift truly was. The mud was Colchis. Far from pleasing to gaze upon, but hardy and defiant. For time immemorial it had been in these springs, outlasting the millennia and generations upon generations of mortals in its home. It would have remained there for another thousand generations as well, had its princess not plucked it from its bed. And now it was hers. It belonged in the hands of an Athenian. A piece of this land to take with her. Her lips stretched into a small smile, and she nodded her thanks to Athanasia without comment.
But them something else happened. Athanasia moved closer to her. Daniil's breath caught in her throat at the sudden movement and proximity of the other woman, and though her first instinct was to pull away, fearful of the contact that might come with it. . . she did not. She stayed still, her eyes meeting Athanasia's as the princess' fingers touched her cheeks. Fingers calloused from the bowstring dragged across her flushed skin, sending ripples of sensation through her, raising bumps along her arms and the hairs on the back of her neck. Heat, unwelcome to her horrified mind, blossomed within her, and it did not come from the springs in which they sat. It was her great shame from which she had run her entire life. But here, there was nowhere to run. Nowhere to escape. But perhaps she did not wish to.
Perhaps here with Athanasia, there was a safety in which she had not felt before. A sense of comfort and acceptance that made her stay, trembling with short careful breaths as the princess dragged her other hands fingers across her face as well, giving her the marks of a warrior of Athena. The mud was warm on her skin, and felt quite nice. But she pad it little mind. Right now, she only had eyes for Athanasia. Daniil did not allow others to touch her. Had not believed there would be any that wished to, believing that others found her repulsive. But Athanasia did not shy away, nor seem to hesitate. And she seemed completely unaware of the burning fires that her touch had ignited in her new friend. It only made Daniil feel guilty. She should not feel this way for Athanasia. It was wrong. So wrong.
As Athanasia relaxed next to her with wine, Daniil listened to her speak more. Smiling along with her jokes, nodding along to her boasts, listening with fascination. The Colchian princess lived a life of freedom that Daniil could only dream of. The woman cared not what anyone around her seemed to think of her, and Daniil was envious. Practically green with it. But did not hold it against the woman. No, it only made her wish to be closer with her.
It was with the final comment that Daniil finally found her words again. The idea of engaging Athanasia in the close quarters required for blade education, their bodies covered in sweat, chests heaving with short breath- it was far from an unpleasant idea, but not for entirely friendly reasons to her internal horror. She drew her legs up until her knees were against her chest, and her arms wrapped around them, a protective measure. She was hesitant. Afraid, almost. Afraid to drive away this new friend, afraid to lose her. And was careful with this comment.
"Yes. Yes, I could teach you some things, but I do not know why you would wish to learn from me. Surely a woman like you must have access to far greater teachers than I. I tried archery once, but I fear that my eyesight is not blessed by Artemis. I have difficulty seeing clearly at extreme ranges."
And finally, she had to answer with her favorite activity. It did not take much thought at all, and her lips gave a small smile again.
"Riding my mare, Eleutheria. Far, far away from home, racing through the roads and the countryside where no one can stop me. There is nowhere I am happier than aboard her saddle."
Daniil's arms left her leg for a moment as she reached for her wine cup, but her nervousness made her unsteady, and she knocked it over. She swore and reached for it, only to touch Athanasia's naked shoulder. Daniil froze, the feel of another woman's bare skin alien to her, but not unpleasant, and her face flushed even darker if that was possible. After that moment, she recoiled, wrapping her arms around her legs again.
"I am so sorry! I-I did not mean to- that is I mean- I-" She looked away from Athanasia, biting her lower lip with some force. "I apologize if I offended you, I did not mean to. . . touch you when you are indecent."
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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'You should see Colchis in the winter months. Demeter is so sad that Persephone is with Hades, it snows here. Everything is covered in a layer of ice and is so cold. It can be seen as harsh, though I have never seen it. I ran through many of the wooded areas around my home. The streams are cold if they are not hot springs like this one, there is life everywhere. Thank you, for your honesty. I like that you like my home, I can not imagine lands that are flat. That would be something to see...'
Snow. It was a foreign concept to the Athenian. Snow did not travel south enough to reach the city where she had spent her life up to that point, meaning she had never been blessed with such a sight. She had read of snow, seen it in paintings, and even heard it described from travelers that made their way around the estate for one reason or another. Yet never had its powdery white substance graced her vision. The concept that she might come back to Colchis and lay her own eyes upon it was an intriguing one. Foreign. But not unwelcome.
"Snow. I have never seen snow. I would like to one day. Perhaps you shall be at my side when it happens, Athanasia."
The next gift that came to her was mud. At first, Daniil was not sure what to make of such a gift. She regarded it cautiously before taking it in hand, the wet substance instantly staining her fingers, seeping through the cracks of her skin and into the water below. But further consideration made her realize how apropos the gift truly was. The mud was Colchis. Far from pleasing to gaze upon, but hardy and defiant. For time immemorial it had been in these springs, outlasting the millennia and generations upon generations of mortals in its home. It would have remained there for another thousand generations as well, had its princess not plucked it from its bed. And now it was hers. It belonged in the hands of an Athenian. A piece of this land to take with her. Her lips stretched into a small smile, and she nodded her thanks to Athanasia without comment.
But them something else happened. Athanasia moved closer to her. Daniil's breath caught in her throat at the sudden movement and proximity of the other woman, and though her first instinct was to pull away, fearful of the contact that might come with it. . . she did not. She stayed still, her eyes meeting Athanasia's as the princess' fingers touched her cheeks. Fingers calloused from the bowstring dragged across her flushed skin, sending ripples of sensation through her, raising bumps along her arms and the hairs on the back of her neck. Heat, unwelcome to her horrified mind, blossomed within her, and it did not come from the springs in which they sat. It was her great shame from which she had run her entire life. But here, there was nowhere to run. Nowhere to escape. But perhaps she did not wish to.
Perhaps here with Athanasia, there was a safety in which she had not felt before. A sense of comfort and acceptance that made her stay, trembling with short careful breaths as the princess dragged her other hands fingers across her face as well, giving her the marks of a warrior of Athena. The mud was warm on her skin, and felt quite nice. But she pad it little mind. Right now, she only had eyes for Athanasia. Daniil did not allow others to touch her. Had not believed there would be any that wished to, believing that others found her repulsive. But Athanasia did not shy away, nor seem to hesitate. And she seemed completely unaware of the burning fires that her touch had ignited in her new friend. It only made Daniil feel guilty. She should not feel this way for Athanasia. It was wrong. So wrong.
As Athanasia relaxed next to her with wine, Daniil listened to her speak more. Smiling along with her jokes, nodding along to her boasts, listening with fascination. The Colchian princess lived a life of freedom that Daniil could only dream of. The woman cared not what anyone around her seemed to think of her, and Daniil was envious. Practically green with it. But did not hold it against the woman. No, it only made her wish to be closer with her.
It was with the final comment that Daniil finally found her words again. The idea of engaging Athanasia in the close quarters required for blade education, their bodies covered in sweat, chests heaving with short breath- it was far from an unpleasant idea, but not for entirely friendly reasons to her internal horror. She drew her legs up until her knees were against her chest, and her arms wrapped around them, a protective measure. She was hesitant. Afraid, almost. Afraid to drive away this new friend, afraid to lose her. And was careful with this comment.
"Yes. Yes, I could teach you some things, but I do not know why you would wish to learn from me. Surely a woman like you must have access to far greater teachers than I. I tried archery once, but I fear that my eyesight is not blessed by Artemis. I have difficulty seeing clearly at extreme ranges."
And finally, she had to answer with her favorite activity. It did not take much thought at all, and her lips gave a small smile again.
"Riding my mare, Eleutheria. Far, far away from home, racing through the roads and the countryside where no one can stop me. There is nowhere I am happier than aboard her saddle."
Daniil's arms left her leg for a moment as she reached for her wine cup, but her nervousness made her unsteady, and she knocked it over. She swore and reached for it, only to touch Athanasia's naked shoulder. Daniil froze, the feel of another woman's bare skin alien to her, but not unpleasant, and her face flushed even darker if that was possible. After that moment, she recoiled, wrapping her arms around her legs again.
"I am so sorry! I-I did not mean to- that is I mean- I-" She looked away from Athanasia, biting her lower lip with some force. "I apologize if I offended you, I did not mean to. . . touch you when you are indecent."
'You should see Colchis in the winter months. Demeter is so sad that Persephone is with Hades, it snows here. Everything is covered in a layer of ice and is so cold. It can be seen as harsh, though I have never seen it. I ran through many of the wooded areas around my home. The streams are cold if they are not hot springs like this one, there is life everywhere. Thank you, for your honesty. I like that you like my home, I can not imagine lands that are flat. That would be something to see...'
Snow. It was a foreign concept to the Athenian. Snow did not travel south enough to reach the city where she had spent her life up to that point, meaning she had never been blessed with such a sight. She had read of snow, seen it in paintings, and even heard it described from travelers that made their way around the estate for one reason or another. Yet never had its powdery white substance graced her vision. The concept that she might come back to Colchis and lay her own eyes upon it was an intriguing one. Foreign. But not unwelcome.
"Snow. I have never seen snow. I would like to one day. Perhaps you shall be at my side when it happens, Athanasia."
The next gift that came to her was mud. At first, Daniil was not sure what to make of such a gift. She regarded it cautiously before taking it in hand, the wet substance instantly staining her fingers, seeping through the cracks of her skin and into the water below. But further consideration made her realize how apropos the gift truly was. The mud was Colchis. Far from pleasing to gaze upon, but hardy and defiant. For time immemorial it had been in these springs, outlasting the millennia and generations upon generations of mortals in its home. It would have remained there for another thousand generations as well, had its princess not plucked it from its bed. And now it was hers. It belonged in the hands of an Athenian. A piece of this land to take with her. Her lips stretched into a small smile, and she nodded her thanks to Athanasia without comment.
But them something else happened. Athanasia moved closer to her. Daniil's breath caught in her throat at the sudden movement and proximity of the other woman, and though her first instinct was to pull away, fearful of the contact that might come with it. . . she did not. She stayed still, her eyes meeting Athanasia's as the princess' fingers touched her cheeks. Fingers calloused from the bowstring dragged across her flushed skin, sending ripples of sensation through her, raising bumps along her arms and the hairs on the back of her neck. Heat, unwelcome to her horrified mind, blossomed within her, and it did not come from the springs in which they sat. It was her great shame from which she had run her entire life. But here, there was nowhere to run. Nowhere to escape. But perhaps she did not wish to.
Perhaps here with Athanasia, there was a safety in which she had not felt before. A sense of comfort and acceptance that made her stay, trembling with short careful breaths as the princess dragged her other hands fingers across her face as well, giving her the marks of a warrior of Athena. The mud was warm on her skin, and felt quite nice. But she pad it little mind. Right now, she only had eyes for Athanasia. Daniil did not allow others to touch her. Had not believed there would be any that wished to, believing that others found her repulsive. But Athanasia did not shy away, nor seem to hesitate. And she seemed completely unaware of the burning fires that her touch had ignited in her new friend. It only made Daniil feel guilty. She should not feel this way for Athanasia. It was wrong. So wrong.
As Athanasia relaxed next to her with wine, Daniil listened to her speak more. Smiling along with her jokes, nodding along to her boasts, listening with fascination. The Colchian princess lived a life of freedom that Daniil could only dream of. The woman cared not what anyone around her seemed to think of her, and Daniil was envious. Practically green with it. But did not hold it against the woman. No, it only made her wish to be closer with her.
It was with the final comment that Daniil finally found her words again. The idea of engaging Athanasia in the close quarters required for blade education, their bodies covered in sweat, chests heaving with short breath- it was far from an unpleasant idea, but not for entirely friendly reasons to her internal horror. She drew her legs up until her knees were against her chest, and her arms wrapped around them, a protective measure. She was hesitant. Afraid, almost. Afraid to drive away this new friend, afraid to lose her. And was careful with this comment.
"Yes. Yes, I could teach you some things, but I do not know why you would wish to learn from me. Surely a woman like you must have access to far greater teachers than I. I tried archery once, but I fear that my eyesight is not blessed by Artemis. I have difficulty seeing clearly at extreme ranges."
And finally, she had to answer with her favorite activity. It did not take much thought at all, and her lips gave a small smile again.
"Riding my mare, Eleutheria. Far, far away from home, racing through the roads and the countryside where no one can stop me. There is nowhere I am happier than aboard her saddle."
Daniil's arms left her leg for a moment as she reached for her wine cup, but her nervousness made her unsteady, and she knocked it over. She swore and reached for it, only to touch Athanasia's naked shoulder. Daniil froze, the feel of another woman's bare skin alien to her, but not unpleasant, and her face flushed even darker if that was possible. After that moment, she recoiled, wrapping her arms around her legs again.
"I am so sorry! I-I did not mean to- that is I mean- I-" She looked away from Athanasia, biting her lower lip with some force. "I apologize if I offended you, I did not mean to. . . touch you when you are indecent."
As they were talking, Athanasia mentioned the snow and wished she could show Daniil. It was always something that seemed so magical for Asia as the white little fluffs fell from the sky like rain, looking so soft even as the coldness bit into you if you weren't wearing warm clothing. Also that if there was enough of the snow packed down, it made slippery blocks of ice that could seriously hurt someone when it fell from the trees in large spikes. Everything made it worth it when the snow fell through the night so when the sun rose the next day, everything felt almost otherworldly. The way the light glittered off the white ice that covered the ground. So when Dani said that she never heard of snow and would like to see it one day with her, Athanasia's smile grew. "I would like that. I would be happy to show you Colchis when the snow is covering everything. It looks like another world, like something from a dream that the gods created. Beautiful and potentially deadly to those that don't know how to prepare for it."
As they spoke, Athanasia got the bright idea of giving Dani a bit of Colchis so she would have the strength of the lands inside her, so her new friend would never feel so alone when she felt cornered again by big brutish men. Watching as Dani ran the bit between her fingers, looking so unsure about Athanasia's reasoning, Asia could not help but giggle softly as she explained. The look of understanding crossed Dani's expression before Asia inched closer with the mud in her hand. She knew most of the Athenians seemed to worship the goddess Athena, so she would dare to guess that Daniil would appreciate her warrior marks gracing her skin in a sign of strength and endurance. So she marked her with the mud, explaining why she was doing so as the woman seemed to tremble and find it hard to breathe as Asia marked her with strength. Was the moment at dinner that traumatic? Athanasia was plotting to kick Alexandros' ass for hurting her new friend, even if it wasn't physical, it was enough.
"You do not have to be scared, I won't let anyone hurt you." Finishing the last of the lines, Asia dropped her hands below the water to let the mud seemingly melt off of her fingers before she met Daniil's gaze again. "Take a deep breath, you are safe here. If I knew that he had hurt you this much, I would have punched him in the nose." She couldn't see her cheeks turn red, but if she did, Asia would just have thought the hot water was overheating the poor woman. Daniil seemed to be positively stressed at the moment as she sat there, so much so that Athanasia's gaze lowered to the water as she suddenly glared at the very memory of Alexandros and his arrogant ways. Her tone was venomous as she quietly admonished herself, "I should have punched him!" It was the least he deserved for scaring this poor woman so, his pride be damned. Stupid, arrogant man. Shaking her anger away, she finished her marks on Daniil, before letting her hands drop into the water to rinse the mud away. It was the only thing she could give her at the moment, maybe she could have a Colchian sword made for her as well. It was a thought, to be sure, something to bring her comfort and security hopefully.
Taking up her glass of wine, she looked over at her new friend and gave her a smile. "I hope this helps you feel better. I know guys can be intimidating, and it is even worse when you can't have your blade on you." Athanasia was fidgeting now, hoping she doesn't make Daniil upset with her words. "I mean, I can tell that you could smack him around and not break a sweat, but when it is unexpected and not on a battleground..." She paused a moment, sighing softly before she took a sip of the cool win. "It was underhanded and dishonorable for what he did, how he tried to invade your space. I am sorry I did not see it sooner." Both her palms were wrapped around the body of her cup, cradling it as she looked down at the dark liquid within as she saw her face. She could see her own reflection within the inky blackness, illuminated only by the faint firelight and moonlight. She almost didn't even recognize herself as she met the eyes of her own image. The haunted look in her own eyes, mixed with rage and sadness from memories of the past. To think of the possibilities of what could have happened if no one saw. For a moment she wondered if Alexandros would have pushed further, to keep going till Daniil gave in. Was he that kind of man? He didn't seem like it when she spoke with him before, but at the same time, she was a princess. He would lose his head if he pushed further than verbal flirting with her. It was something Athanasia would keep an eye on, that is for sure. If he did it again, she would make sure he would become a eunuch. She would make sure of it.
With a small shake of her head, the conversation continued and flowed easily between the two as they sat there in the hot water. So when she commented on Daniil's rumored sword skills, the reaction she got was not what she anticipated as she watched the woman wrap her arms around herself as she hugged her knees. The careful response had Asia putting her cup down and holding up her hands in a placating manner. "You don't have to if you do not want too. It was only a thought because I heard you were very skilled. I can still try to learn with soldiers and my brothers, just.." She left it off that she wanted to learn from a fellow woman, someone she would turn the lesson from 'only learn the weak points' to full on skill lessons. With the men, it felt more like a punishment sometimes, than actual lessons. "If you do want to, I would appreciate the lessons. As for archery, I can teach you some tricks to help you. Even if Artemis did not bless you with the eyes, I would think she favors the aim of those who push through it anyways." As the talk shifted to favorite activities, Asia smiled when she saw Daniil seemingly light up as she started talking about her horse. "I can understand that. Also, archery from the back of a horse is a whole different level. Maybe we will be able to get you to that level?" Athanasia watched as Daniil seemed to finally uncurl herself as she reached for her own glass. When it knocked over and she chased the cup, the unexpected touch against her bare shoulder, had Athanasia duck a little further in the water as her heart seemed to thump harder in her chest, she didn't flinch away even though she did move. She didn't know if she would need to move further forward to catch the cup. She could see the woman freeze and possibly turned as red as Asia felt. It was only a shame when she ended up curling up into a tight ball again. "Why are you apologizing? I know that you did not do it intentionally. I mean.. I touched your face, neck, and your shoulders. I admit, I was not expecting to be touched.. it is not as painful as I thought it would be."
Looking down at her shoulder, she slid her palm over it before she turned to the servants near by. "Please, can you clean up the wine and get my friend a fresh glass? Also refill mine, thank you." Moving further into the water, Athanasia lowered further into the water till it just covered her mouth, her nose above so she could still breathe. She was still thinking of the touch, wondering at the tingling feeling that she felt, before she lifted back up high enough to speak. "Don't feel like you have to apologize for something like this. I can promise you, you will know if I am offended, and that wasn't something offensive."
Athene
Athanasia
Athene
Athanasia
Awards
First Impressions:Leggy; Warm, bronze-colored eyes; thick wavy hair & an easy smile.
Address: Your Royal Highness
As they were talking, Athanasia mentioned the snow and wished she could show Daniil. It was always something that seemed so magical for Asia as the white little fluffs fell from the sky like rain, looking so soft even as the coldness bit into you if you weren't wearing warm clothing. Also that if there was enough of the snow packed down, it made slippery blocks of ice that could seriously hurt someone when it fell from the trees in large spikes. Everything made it worth it when the snow fell through the night so when the sun rose the next day, everything felt almost otherworldly. The way the light glittered off the white ice that covered the ground. So when Dani said that she never heard of snow and would like to see it one day with her, Athanasia's smile grew. "I would like that. I would be happy to show you Colchis when the snow is covering everything. It looks like another world, like something from a dream that the gods created. Beautiful and potentially deadly to those that don't know how to prepare for it."
As they spoke, Athanasia got the bright idea of giving Dani a bit of Colchis so she would have the strength of the lands inside her, so her new friend would never feel so alone when she felt cornered again by big brutish men. Watching as Dani ran the bit between her fingers, looking so unsure about Athanasia's reasoning, Asia could not help but giggle softly as she explained. The look of understanding crossed Dani's expression before Asia inched closer with the mud in her hand. She knew most of the Athenians seemed to worship the goddess Athena, so she would dare to guess that Daniil would appreciate her warrior marks gracing her skin in a sign of strength and endurance. So she marked her with the mud, explaining why she was doing so as the woman seemed to tremble and find it hard to breathe as Asia marked her with strength. Was the moment at dinner that traumatic? Athanasia was plotting to kick Alexandros' ass for hurting her new friend, even if it wasn't physical, it was enough.
"You do not have to be scared, I won't let anyone hurt you." Finishing the last of the lines, Asia dropped her hands below the water to let the mud seemingly melt off of her fingers before she met Daniil's gaze again. "Take a deep breath, you are safe here. If I knew that he had hurt you this much, I would have punched him in the nose." She couldn't see her cheeks turn red, but if she did, Asia would just have thought the hot water was overheating the poor woman. Daniil seemed to be positively stressed at the moment as she sat there, so much so that Athanasia's gaze lowered to the water as she suddenly glared at the very memory of Alexandros and his arrogant ways. Her tone was venomous as she quietly admonished herself, "I should have punched him!" It was the least he deserved for scaring this poor woman so, his pride be damned. Stupid, arrogant man. Shaking her anger away, she finished her marks on Daniil, before letting her hands drop into the water to rinse the mud away. It was the only thing she could give her at the moment, maybe she could have a Colchian sword made for her as well. It was a thought, to be sure, something to bring her comfort and security hopefully.
Taking up her glass of wine, she looked over at her new friend and gave her a smile. "I hope this helps you feel better. I know guys can be intimidating, and it is even worse when you can't have your blade on you." Athanasia was fidgeting now, hoping she doesn't make Daniil upset with her words. "I mean, I can tell that you could smack him around and not break a sweat, but when it is unexpected and not on a battleground..." She paused a moment, sighing softly before she took a sip of the cool win. "It was underhanded and dishonorable for what he did, how he tried to invade your space. I am sorry I did not see it sooner." Both her palms were wrapped around the body of her cup, cradling it as she looked down at the dark liquid within as she saw her face. She could see her own reflection within the inky blackness, illuminated only by the faint firelight and moonlight. She almost didn't even recognize herself as she met the eyes of her own image. The haunted look in her own eyes, mixed with rage and sadness from memories of the past. To think of the possibilities of what could have happened if no one saw. For a moment she wondered if Alexandros would have pushed further, to keep going till Daniil gave in. Was he that kind of man? He didn't seem like it when she spoke with him before, but at the same time, she was a princess. He would lose his head if he pushed further than verbal flirting with her. It was something Athanasia would keep an eye on, that is for sure. If he did it again, she would make sure he would become a eunuch. She would make sure of it.
With a small shake of her head, the conversation continued and flowed easily between the two as they sat there in the hot water. So when she commented on Daniil's rumored sword skills, the reaction she got was not what she anticipated as she watched the woman wrap her arms around herself as she hugged her knees. The careful response had Asia putting her cup down and holding up her hands in a placating manner. "You don't have to if you do not want too. It was only a thought because I heard you were very skilled. I can still try to learn with soldiers and my brothers, just.." She left it off that she wanted to learn from a fellow woman, someone she would turn the lesson from 'only learn the weak points' to full on skill lessons. With the men, it felt more like a punishment sometimes, than actual lessons. "If you do want to, I would appreciate the lessons. As for archery, I can teach you some tricks to help you. Even if Artemis did not bless you with the eyes, I would think she favors the aim of those who push through it anyways." As the talk shifted to favorite activities, Asia smiled when she saw Daniil seemingly light up as she started talking about her horse. "I can understand that. Also, archery from the back of a horse is a whole different level. Maybe we will be able to get you to that level?" Athanasia watched as Daniil seemed to finally uncurl herself as she reached for her own glass. When it knocked over and she chased the cup, the unexpected touch against her bare shoulder, had Athanasia duck a little further in the water as her heart seemed to thump harder in her chest, she didn't flinch away even though she did move. She didn't know if she would need to move further forward to catch the cup. She could see the woman freeze and possibly turned as red as Asia felt. It was only a shame when she ended up curling up into a tight ball again. "Why are you apologizing? I know that you did not do it intentionally. I mean.. I touched your face, neck, and your shoulders. I admit, I was not expecting to be touched.. it is not as painful as I thought it would be."
Looking down at her shoulder, she slid her palm over it before she turned to the servants near by. "Please, can you clean up the wine and get my friend a fresh glass? Also refill mine, thank you." Moving further into the water, Athanasia lowered further into the water till it just covered her mouth, her nose above so she could still breathe. She was still thinking of the touch, wondering at the tingling feeling that she felt, before she lifted back up high enough to speak. "Don't feel like you have to apologize for something like this. I can promise you, you will know if I am offended, and that wasn't something offensive."
As they were talking, Athanasia mentioned the snow and wished she could show Daniil. It was always something that seemed so magical for Asia as the white little fluffs fell from the sky like rain, looking so soft even as the coldness bit into you if you weren't wearing warm clothing. Also that if there was enough of the snow packed down, it made slippery blocks of ice that could seriously hurt someone when it fell from the trees in large spikes. Everything made it worth it when the snow fell through the night so when the sun rose the next day, everything felt almost otherworldly. The way the light glittered off the white ice that covered the ground. So when Dani said that she never heard of snow and would like to see it one day with her, Athanasia's smile grew. "I would like that. I would be happy to show you Colchis when the snow is covering everything. It looks like another world, like something from a dream that the gods created. Beautiful and potentially deadly to those that don't know how to prepare for it."
As they spoke, Athanasia got the bright idea of giving Dani a bit of Colchis so she would have the strength of the lands inside her, so her new friend would never feel so alone when she felt cornered again by big brutish men. Watching as Dani ran the bit between her fingers, looking so unsure about Athanasia's reasoning, Asia could not help but giggle softly as she explained. The look of understanding crossed Dani's expression before Asia inched closer with the mud in her hand. She knew most of the Athenians seemed to worship the goddess Athena, so she would dare to guess that Daniil would appreciate her warrior marks gracing her skin in a sign of strength and endurance. So she marked her with the mud, explaining why she was doing so as the woman seemed to tremble and find it hard to breathe as Asia marked her with strength. Was the moment at dinner that traumatic? Athanasia was plotting to kick Alexandros' ass for hurting her new friend, even if it wasn't physical, it was enough.
"You do not have to be scared, I won't let anyone hurt you." Finishing the last of the lines, Asia dropped her hands below the water to let the mud seemingly melt off of her fingers before she met Daniil's gaze again. "Take a deep breath, you are safe here. If I knew that he had hurt you this much, I would have punched him in the nose." She couldn't see her cheeks turn red, but if she did, Asia would just have thought the hot water was overheating the poor woman. Daniil seemed to be positively stressed at the moment as she sat there, so much so that Athanasia's gaze lowered to the water as she suddenly glared at the very memory of Alexandros and his arrogant ways. Her tone was venomous as she quietly admonished herself, "I should have punched him!" It was the least he deserved for scaring this poor woman so, his pride be damned. Stupid, arrogant man. Shaking her anger away, she finished her marks on Daniil, before letting her hands drop into the water to rinse the mud away. It was the only thing she could give her at the moment, maybe she could have a Colchian sword made for her as well. It was a thought, to be sure, something to bring her comfort and security hopefully.
Taking up her glass of wine, she looked over at her new friend and gave her a smile. "I hope this helps you feel better. I know guys can be intimidating, and it is even worse when you can't have your blade on you." Athanasia was fidgeting now, hoping she doesn't make Daniil upset with her words. "I mean, I can tell that you could smack him around and not break a sweat, but when it is unexpected and not on a battleground..." She paused a moment, sighing softly before she took a sip of the cool win. "It was underhanded and dishonorable for what he did, how he tried to invade your space. I am sorry I did not see it sooner." Both her palms were wrapped around the body of her cup, cradling it as she looked down at the dark liquid within as she saw her face. She could see her own reflection within the inky blackness, illuminated only by the faint firelight and moonlight. She almost didn't even recognize herself as she met the eyes of her own image. The haunted look in her own eyes, mixed with rage and sadness from memories of the past. To think of the possibilities of what could have happened if no one saw. For a moment she wondered if Alexandros would have pushed further, to keep going till Daniil gave in. Was he that kind of man? He didn't seem like it when she spoke with him before, but at the same time, she was a princess. He would lose his head if he pushed further than verbal flirting with her. It was something Athanasia would keep an eye on, that is for sure. If he did it again, she would make sure he would become a eunuch. She would make sure of it.
With a small shake of her head, the conversation continued and flowed easily between the two as they sat there in the hot water. So when she commented on Daniil's rumored sword skills, the reaction she got was not what she anticipated as she watched the woman wrap her arms around herself as she hugged her knees. The careful response had Asia putting her cup down and holding up her hands in a placating manner. "You don't have to if you do not want too. It was only a thought because I heard you were very skilled. I can still try to learn with soldiers and my brothers, just.." She left it off that she wanted to learn from a fellow woman, someone she would turn the lesson from 'only learn the weak points' to full on skill lessons. With the men, it felt more like a punishment sometimes, than actual lessons. "If you do want to, I would appreciate the lessons. As for archery, I can teach you some tricks to help you. Even if Artemis did not bless you with the eyes, I would think she favors the aim of those who push through it anyways." As the talk shifted to favorite activities, Asia smiled when she saw Daniil seemingly light up as she started talking about her horse. "I can understand that. Also, archery from the back of a horse is a whole different level. Maybe we will be able to get you to that level?" Athanasia watched as Daniil seemed to finally uncurl herself as she reached for her own glass. When it knocked over and she chased the cup, the unexpected touch against her bare shoulder, had Athanasia duck a little further in the water as her heart seemed to thump harder in her chest, she didn't flinch away even though she did move. She didn't know if she would need to move further forward to catch the cup. She could see the woman freeze and possibly turned as red as Asia felt. It was only a shame when she ended up curling up into a tight ball again. "Why are you apologizing? I know that you did not do it intentionally. I mean.. I touched your face, neck, and your shoulders. I admit, I was not expecting to be touched.. it is not as painful as I thought it would be."
Looking down at her shoulder, she slid her palm over it before she turned to the servants near by. "Please, can you clean up the wine and get my friend a fresh glass? Also refill mine, thank you." Moving further into the water, Athanasia lowered further into the water till it just covered her mouth, her nose above so she could still breathe. She was still thinking of the touch, wondering at the tingling feeling that she felt, before she lifted back up high enough to speak. "Don't feel like you have to apologize for something like this. I can promise you, you will know if I am offended, and that wasn't something offensive."
