The voices of the pair echoed through the temple, hopefully not drawing the ire of the priests. Elena had a feeling that with the good senator at her side the priests would keep their distance. It was not wise to irritate a man who wielded as much political influence as him, and they would know it. His dark features and smooth voice drew her in, and she nodded affirmation at his offer of assistance. “Of course, Senator Stravos, you are very gracious.” She was lying of course, there was no way in Hades she would seek out him for assistance, no matter how charming and good looking he was. It would simply be too embarrassing, not just for Elena but also for her family.

Ah, Elena had forgotten that he knew Daniil, but now that he had mentioned the Marikas with the darkest features memories stirred in her mind. Elena seemed to recall that he and her sister had been playmates as children, Danill revolting against the social decrees of their gender even then. “Daniil has been well, although we have not spent as much time together as of late. As you know she comes and goes like a storm, where she pleases and always memorable to those who get to spend time with her.” Elena’s smile indicated that Elias had remarked on one of the topics most likely to set her at ease -her family. “My parents seem to think that if they push her less, she won’t dig in her heels so much, but Daniil won’t do anything she doesn’t wish to. She really can be obstinate at times, as you surely know.” She shrugged a shoulder with a warm smile, her voice full of affection for her sister. “As long as she finds happiness, I will be happy for her no matter what.”

Fearing that she was dominating the conversation, it seemed natural to invite the senator to answer some questions on the matter. “I recall you both running around the stables and grounds as children and being scolded by our nursemaid more often than not, if my memory serves me correctly, my Lord?” Her eyes shone with amusement at the memories. They made him more relatable, and Elena would make sure to tell Daniil of her encounter with him later on, likely with much giggling.

Elena found herself nodding in understanding with his rationale of worshipping Hades. “Indeed, that is very wise of you.” It was true that Hades was the god of the dead, but also the god of wealth and money. That was likely the only reason why he had been given an equally prominent place in the Naos of the Gods because it was very uncommon to find shrines dedicated to him, and when there was one, it was usually very small. It seemed to Elena that Hades was often the forgotten God, remembered only at the end of life when it was too late. Lord Elias was wise to pay tribute at a young age, for surely his generosity in life would be rewarded after death.

His compliments were well received, and she laughed softly at his flattery, her stomach fluttering with excitement. The flickering candlelight gleamed off his almost black hair, lending him a mysterious quality that Elena found intriguing. He seemed all at once open and closed. His laugh invited her to join in at the expense of the priests, but in his silences were moments where Elena suspected an internal conversation was taking place. Their eyes met for a moment before Elena fluttered her lashes and looked away. He was the youngest and most handsome man in the senate according to local gossip, in which he was frequently featured. Elena was inclined to agree with their opinions, that the senator was extremely handsome, and it was no wonder the women of Athenia worked so hard to make themselves known to them. It was pure luck that she found herself currently the center of his attention, and Elena was planning on enjoying every moment with the handsome lord.
His gaze was so intense she was sure he could see her thoughts, but she tried to keep things light. “They really should be appreciative, and I try my best not to be too disruptive I promise.” She giggled. “I’d like to see them try to kick you out Senator, for I have a feeling you’d not stand for such impolite treatment.” His arm was extended along with an offer to take her safely home, and it would be rude to turn it down.

Masking her surprise, she nodded again and took the proffered limb gracefully. “I would be glad to have such good company for my return home. I usually make the journey with only my lady’s maids for company, so your conversation will be a most welcome change. Perhaps while we walk you can tell me about your work in the Senate and what areas of society hold your passion.” The pair turned smoothly toward the large archway and pillars marking the entrance, Elena trying to recall all of her mother’s instructions about dealing with men, her maids following just out of earshot, enjoying being on the arm of the handsome senator.