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Walking calmly and with a confidence that would assure his guests that all was well and on schedule, Fotios meandered through the garden in a path that was as direct as possible between the raised beds and patches of exposed grass. In its centre was the basilica - a circle of columns that supported a domed top. Ivy and flowering climbers, including bougainvillea and vanilla wrapped themselves around the white marble, created a cocoon of pleasant smells and colourful light as the sunshine drifted down through the petals around its circumference.
Fotios stepped up the three shallow steps of the basilica and onto the paved pattern over its floor: the baying Leventi stallion. Black marble offered its background whilst the same stone of purest white dictated the line of the equine.
It was he turned to smile at his guests who moved to join him beneath the dome - a dome that was at least fifteen feet in diameter and more than enough to accommodate the entire of both families - that Fotios noticed the Lady Evangelina stepping out into the sunshine, trailed by several servants that carried large chests.
Each was filled with gold and silver and a few Leventi family heirlooms that would be passed on to the Mikaelidas heirs that held Leventi blood - as a reminder of their lineage on both sides.
In perfect coordination - for he felt sure that his wife had been hanging in the wings ready to arrive at the appropriate moment - the Lady Eirini left the estate from a separate door. Behind her was an equally long line of serving girls in the brightest and cleanest uniforms seen upon any. Each of them held trays of wine and refreshments.
As the chests of the dowry were placed down upon one side of the basilica, the servants producing the food and drink hung back at the bottom of the steps, in neat little lines, ready to be summoned forwards as soon as business had been taken care of.
Fotios shook his head at Evangelina's suggestion to have a puppy running around their feet.
"Any additional gifts can be sent to Euttica for the arrival of the new couple." He informed her. "See to it after the dowry presentation."
His words were quiet and dignified and happened quickly so as not to disturb the flow of things.
"My friend..." Fotios stated in a louder voice, as his wife came to join him at his side. He addressed his words to the new King Irakles. "Today we finally join our families. Please..." He waved a hand towards the chests and in unison the servants that monitored them opened each lid. "Accept the gifts of the House of Leventi in addition to the daughter we give into your care."
The amount of money, the value of the items - all of it had been arranged prior to today, so there was no need for the Mikaelidas coven to check the contents of each container; it was merely enough to see that it was there. This was all a show and formality that was expected of the ceremonies of the day. It would be counted and verified by their own administrators another time.
It was then that Fotios' eyes brightened as he looked over Irakles' and Achilleas' shoulders.
"The daughter I now see as able to be presented." He said with satisfaction. That Basilides man had done well for a commoner, correcting all issues with the bride in a far shorter time than he had been given. For it was then that Theodora appeared at the edge of the garden, beneath an archway of apple blossoms, in a gown, jewels and manner that caused even Fotios to admit that people had a point when they dubbed his niece blessed by Aphrodite herself...
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This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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Walking calmly and with a confidence that would assure his guests that all was well and on schedule, Fotios meandered through the garden in a path that was as direct as possible between the raised beds and patches of exposed grass. In its centre was the basilica - a circle of columns that supported a domed top. Ivy and flowering climbers, including bougainvillea and vanilla wrapped themselves around the white marble, created a cocoon of pleasant smells and colourful light as the sunshine drifted down through the petals around its circumference.
Fotios stepped up the three shallow steps of the basilica and onto the paved pattern over its floor: the baying Leventi stallion. Black marble offered its background whilst the same stone of purest white dictated the line of the equine.
It was he turned to smile at his guests who moved to join him beneath the dome - a dome that was at least fifteen feet in diameter and more than enough to accommodate the entire of both families - that Fotios noticed the Lady Evangelina stepping out into the sunshine, trailed by several servants that carried large chests.
Each was filled with gold and silver and a few Leventi family heirlooms that would be passed on to the Mikaelidas heirs that held Leventi blood - as a reminder of their lineage on both sides.
In perfect coordination - for he felt sure that his wife had been hanging in the wings ready to arrive at the appropriate moment - the Lady Eirini left the estate from a separate door. Behind her was an equally long line of serving girls in the brightest and cleanest uniforms seen upon any. Each of them held trays of wine and refreshments.
As the chests of the dowry were placed down upon one side of the basilica, the servants producing the food and drink hung back at the bottom of the steps, in neat little lines, ready to be summoned forwards as soon as business had been taken care of.
Fotios shook his head at Evangelina's suggestion to have a puppy running around their feet.
"Any additional gifts can be sent to Euttica for the arrival of the new couple." He informed her. "See to it after the dowry presentation."
His words were quiet and dignified and happened quickly so as not to disturb the flow of things.
"My friend..." Fotios stated in a louder voice, as his wife came to join him at his side. He addressed his words to the new King Irakles. "Today we finally join our families. Please..." He waved a hand towards the chests and in unison the servants that monitored them opened each lid. "Accept the gifts of the House of Leventi in addition to the daughter we give into your care."
The amount of money, the value of the items - all of it had been arranged prior to today, so there was no need for the Mikaelidas coven to check the contents of each container; it was merely enough to see that it was there. This was all a show and formality that was expected of the ceremonies of the day. It would be counted and verified by their own administrators another time.
It was then that Fotios' eyes brightened as he looked over Irakles' and Achilleas' shoulders.
"The daughter I now see as able to be presented." He said with satisfaction. That Basilides man had done well for a commoner, correcting all issues with the bride in a far shorter time than he had been given. For it was then that Theodora appeared at the edge of the garden, beneath an archway of apple blossoms, in a gown, jewels and manner that caused even Fotios to admit that people had a point when they dubbed his niece blessed by Aphrodite herself...
Walking calmly and with a confidence that would assure his guests that all was well and on schedule, Fotios meandered through the garden in a path that was as direct as possible between the raised beds and patches of exposed grass. In its centre was the basilica - a circle of columns that supported a domed top. Ivy and flowering climbers, including bougainvillea and vanilla wrapped themselves around the white marble, created a cocoon of pleasant smells and colourful light as the sunshine drifted down through the petals around its circumference.
Fotios stepped up the three shallow steps of the basilica and onto the paved pattern over its floor: the baying Leventi stallion. Black marble offered its background whilst the same stone of purest white dictated the line of the equine.
It was he turned to smile at his guests who moved to join him beneath the dome - a dome that was at least fifteen feet in diameter and more than enough to accommodate the entire of both families - that Fotios noticed the Lady Evangelina stepping out into the sunshine, trailed by several servants that carried large chests.
Each was filled with gold and silver and a few Leventi family heirlooms that would be passed on to the Mikaelidas heirs that held Leventi blood - as a reminder of their lineage on both sides.
In perfect coordination - for he felt sure that his wife had been hanging in the wings ready to arrive at the appropriate moment - the Lady Eirini left the estate from a separate door. Behind her was an equally long line of serving girls in the brightest and cleanest uniforms seen upon any. Each of them held trays of wine and refreshments.
As the chests of the dowry were placed down upon one side of the basilica, the servants producing the food and drink hung back at the bottom of the steps, in neat little lines, ready to be summoned forwards as soon as business had been taken care of.
Fotios shook his head at Evangelina's suggestion to have a puppy running around their feet.
"Any additional gifts can be sent to Euttica for the arrival of the new couple." He informed her. "See to it after the dowry presentation."
His words were quiet and dignified and happened quickly so as not to disturb the flow of things.
"My friend..." Fotios stated in a louder voice, as his wife came to join him at his side. He addressed his words to the new King Irakles. "Today we finally join our families. Please..." He waved a hand towards the chests and in unison the servants that monitored them opened each lid. "Accept the gifts of the House of Leventi in addition to the daughter we give into your care."
The amount of money, the value of the items - all of it had been arranged prior to today, so there was no need for the Mikaelidas coven to check the contents of each container; it was merely enough to see that it was there. This was all a show and formality that was expected of the ceremonies of the day. It would be counted and verified by their own administrators another time.
It was then that Fotios' eyes brightened as he looked over Irakles' and Achilleas' shoulders.
"The daughter I now see as able to be presented." He said with satisfaction. That Basilides man had done well for a commoner, correcting all issues with the bride in a far shorter time than he had been given. For it was then that Theodora appeared at the edge of the garden, beneath an archway of apple blossoms, in a gown, jewels and manner that caused even Fotios to admit that people had a point when they dubbed his niece blessed by Aphrodite herself...
Standing before her mother and more than a little nervous as to being so trussed up, Theodora couldn't help the slippery and delightful sensation in her stomach of being treated like a princess. Now that all the worries and issues with the dress had been fixed, it was dawning on her just how significant today was and how her role to it was so very central.
For weeks, everyone had been talking of the 'joining of the families' and the 'connections that were to be made'. They had talked of dowries and dresses and ceremonies and practical arrangements for food and drink and carriages. There had been delays and rearrangements. Moments of fear in which she had worried that Achilleas would never even make it to the wedding given his involvement in the attack upon the Creed. Then the situation with Olympia and the fear for her sister and unborn nephew...
Everything had happened so repeatedly, one after the other, that it seemed to only dawn on Theodora now that this day was about her.
As she stood before the polished silver glass to witness her own appearance and felt a warmth of pride at how beautifully everything had come together, she began to wonder if she could really enjoy today...
It was settled now. There was nothing more to be argued up. There was no way that she would be able to stomach the shame of her family and friends - and the humiliation she would deal to Achilleas - if for whatever reason she didn't go through with this marriage. It was done. She might as well already be wearing Achilleas' mark.
Which meant what was there to feel worry for?
Emilios? There was nothing he could now say or do that would change things.
Olympia? She was away and gone - hopefully safe - but there was nothing she could do to bring her and Selene back for her wedding.
Achilleas? What was there to be concerned for? She cared for the man, felt close to him. They had been intimate and it had been... pleasurable at least. She was certain that with more time together their affections would grow, surely? They had done so far...
Her family? By accepting that this marriage was happening regardless, she was doing everything they could wish for.
So... despite everything else that was going on around them. Despite all the difficulties and challenges leading up to this point. Despite all the loose ends that seemed to be swaying around them like the ceremonial ribbons decorating the walls outside... this was her wedding day...
She straightened her spine as her reflection did the same and noted her appearance with a moment of egotistical joy.
...and she was going to enjoy it, Godsdamnit.
With bright eyes and a pleased smile, Theodora's earlier concerns were swept away - either by Basilides and Issa's clever hands, or into the back of her own mind where she shut the door upon them and refused to open it.
"I'm ready, Mother." Theo assured her smiling matriarch, meaning it in every way.
The trip from her rooms, down the stairs and out into the sunshine felt like some sort of strange dream that slipped by in slow motion but at a pace that made her hardly notice the journey. She wasn't aware when Basilides melted into the background somewhere, and she felt only a trickle of nerves when her mother unlinked their arms and encouraged her forwards, into the gardens, first.
Stepping up through an archway of pretty apple blossoms, their centres a passionate pink and their petals' edges soft and purest white, she looked out towards the basilica, where her families old and new turned to witness her approach.
She stepped carefully, her gown of purest white kept away from the soil and grass, as four servants - clearly waiting for her arrival - stepped in around her, holding a square of crimson silk stretched above her head. As was tradition, the colour represented good luck and fortune in her future union and Theo felt her smile grow.
Determined not to look at her betrothed's brother - to not risk anything that might ease open the door in the back of her mind - Theodora looked instead towards Achilleas, standing so very handsomely beside his father.
Her smile turning surprisingly shy and her gaze looking down where she fiddled just slightly with the golden bracelet around her wrist, she then turned to raise her head with pride as she ascended the steps of the basilica to join the congregation.
The servants stepped away, folding the scarlet silk for safe-keeping, and Theo felt the presence of her mother join her just a few steps back.
Swallowing softly, Theo curtseyed with great depth to her future father-in-law and monarch, before turning her gaze towards his eldest son, suddenly nervous of his own feelings on this long-awaited day.
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Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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Standing before her mother and more than a little nervous as to being so trussed up, Theodora couldn't help the slippery and delightful sensation in her stomach of being treated like a princess. Now that all the worries and issues with the dress had been fixed, it was dawning on her just how significant today was and how her role to it was so very central.
For weeks, everyone had been talking of the 'joining of the families' and the 'connections that were to be made'. They had talked of dowries and dresses and ceremonies and practical arrangements for food and drink and carriages. There had been delays and rearrangements. Moments of fear in which she had worried that Achilleas would never even make it to the wedding given his involvement in the attack upon the Creed. Then the situation with Olympia and the fear for her sister and unborn nephew...
Everything had happened so repeatedly, one after the other, that it seemed to only dawn on Theodora now that this day was about her.
As she stood before the polished silver glass to witness her own appearance and felt a warmth of pride at how beautifully everything had come together, she began to wonder if she could really enjoy today...
It was settled now. There was nothing more to be argued up. There was no way that she would be able to stomach the shame of her family and friends - and the humiliation she would deal to Achilleas - if for whatever reason she didn't go through with this marriage. It was done. She might as well already be wearing Achilleas' mark.
Which meant what was there to feel worry for?
Emilios? There was nothing he could now say or do that would change things.
Olympia? She was away and gone - hopefully safe - but there was nothing she could do to bring her and Selene back for her wedding.
Achilleas? What was there to be concerned for? She cared for the man, felt close to him. They had been intimate and it had been... pleasurable at least. She was certain that with more time together their affections would grow, surely? They had done so far...
Her family? By accepting that this marriage was happening regardless, she was doing everything they could wish for.
So... despite everything else that was going on around them. Despite all the difficulties and challenges leading up to this point. Despite all the loose ends that seemed to be swaying around them like the ceremonial ribbons decorating the walls outside... this was her wedding day...
She straightened her spine as her reflection did the same and noted her appearance with a moment of egotistical joy.
...and she was going to enjoy it, Godsdamnit.
With bright eyes and a pleased smile, Theodora's earlier concerns were swept away - either by Basilides and Issa's clever hands, or into the back of her own mind where she shut the door upon them and refused to open it.
"I'm ready, Mother." Theo assured her smiling matriarch, meaning it in every way.
The trip from her rooms, down the stairs and out into the sunshine felt like some sort of strange dream that slipped by in slow motion but at a pace that made her hardly notice the journey. She wasn't aware when Basilides melted into the background somewhere, and she felt only a trickle of nerves when her mother unlinked their arms and encouraged her forwards, into the gardens, first.
Stepping up through an archway of pretty apple blossoms, their centres a passionate pink and their petals' edges soft and purest white, she looked out towards the basilica, where her families old and new turned to witness her approach.
She stepped carefully, her gown of purest white kept away from the soil and grass, as four servants - clearly waiting for her arrival - stepped in around her, holding a square of crimson silk stretched above her head. As was tradition, the colour represented good luck and fortune in her future union and Theo felt her smile grow.
Determined not to look at her betrothed's brother - to not risk anything that might ease open the door in the back of her mind - Theodora looked instead towards Achilleas, standing so very handsomely beside his father.
Her smile turning surprisingly shy and her gaze looking down where she fiddled just slightly with the golden bracelet around her wrist, she then turned to raise her head with pride as she ascended the steps of the basilica to join the congregation.
The servants stepped away, folding the scarlet silk for safe-keeping, and Theo felt the presence of her mother join her just a few steps back.
Swallowing softly, Theo curtseyed with great depth to her future father-in-law and monarch, before turning her gaze towards his eldest son, suddenly nervous of his own feelings on this long-awaited day.
Standing before her mother and more than a little nervous as to being so trussed up, Theodora couldn't help the slippery and delightful sensation in her stomach of being treated like a princess. Now that all the worries and issues with the dress had been fixed, it was dawning on her just how significant today was and how her role to it was so very central.
For weeks, everyone had been talking of the 'joining of the families' and the 'connections that were to be made'. They had talked of dowries and dresses and ceremonies and practical arrangements for food and drink and carriages. There had been delays and rearrangements. Moments of fear in which she had worried that Achilleas would never even make it to the wedding given his involvement in the attack upon the Creed. Then the situation with Olympia and the fear for her sister and unborn nephew...
Everything had happened so repeatedly, one after the other, that it seemed to only dawn on Theodora now that this day was about her.
As she stood before the polished silver glass to witness her own appearance and felt a warmth of pride at how beautifully everything had come together, she began to wonder if she could really enjoy today...
It was settled now. There was nothing more to be argued up. There was no way that she would be able to stomach the shame of her family and friends - and the humiliation she would deal to Achilleas - if for whatever reason she didn't go through with this marriage. It was done. She might as well already be wearing Achilleas' mark.
Which meant what was there to feel worry for?
Emilios? There was nothing he could now say or do that would change things.
Olympia? She was away and gone - hopefully safe - but there was nothing she could do to bring her and Selene back for her wedding.
Achilleas? What was there to be concerned for? She cared for the man, felt close to him. They had been intimate and it had been... pleasurable at least. She was certain that with more time together their affections would grow, surely? They had done so far...
Her family? By accepting that this marriage was happening regardless, she was doing everything they could wish for.
So... despite everything else that was going on around them. Despite all the difficulties and challenges leading up to this point. Despite all the loose ends that seemed to be swaying around them like the ceremonial ribbons decorating the walls outside... this was her wedding day...
She straightened her spine as her reflection did the same and noted her appearance with a moment of egotistical joy.
...and she was going to enjoy it, Godsdamnit.
With bright eyes and a pleased smile, Theodora's earlier concerns were swept away - either by Basilides and Issa's clever hands, or into the back of her own mind where she shut the door upon them and refused to open it.
"I'm ready, Mother." Theo assured her smiling matriarch, meaning it in every way.
The trip from her rooms, down the stairs and out into the sunshine felt like some sort of strange dream that slipped by in slow motion but at a pace that made her hardly notice the journey. She wasn't aware when Basilides melted into the background somewhere, and she felt only a trickle of nerves when her mother unlinked their arms and encouraged her forwards, into the gardens, first.
Stepping up through an archway of pretty apple blossoms, their centres a passionate pink and their petals' edges soft and purest white, she looked out towards the basilica, where her families old and new turned to witness her approach.
She stepped carefully, her gown of purest white kept away from the soil and grass, as four servants - clearly waiting for her arrival - stepped in around her, holding a square of crimson silk stretched above her head. As was tradition, the colour represented good luck and fortune in her future union and Theo felt her smile grow.
Determined not to look at her betrothed's brother - to not risk anything that might ease open the door in the back of her mind - Theodora looked instead towards Achilleas, standing so very handsomely beside his father.
Her smile turning surprisingly shy and her gaze looking down where she fiddled just slightly with the golden bracelet around her wrist, she then turned to raise her head with pride as she ascended the steps of the basilica to join the congregation.
The servants stepped away, folding the scarlet silk for safe-keeping, and Theo felt the presence of her mother join her just a few steps back.
Swallowing softly, Theo curtseyed with great depth to her future father-in-law and monarch, before turning her gaze towards his eldest son, suddenly nervous of his own feelings on this long-awaited day.
To a certain extent, much of Selene's grace and elegance in handling situations in a variety of difficulties had rubbed off on Theodora. If this had been Nana in the exact same position, Evelli was quite sure her younger daughter would have been screaming the rafters off and declaring teh day a grand disaster, yet Evelli felt a swell of pride in her chest as she saw her second-born's calm suggestions to Basilides in how to fix the matter - a far cry from Evelli's tight composure right now. While Theodora may be calm on the outside, Evelli radiated annoyance, for how dare her daughter's wedding be anything less then perfect.
While her second daughter's suggestion was meant in kindness, the matriarch shook her head at the offer. "Do not worry, your uncle and father have a good handle on things below. Beside's, the men would surely have a good number of words to exchange before you greet them." she replied with a soft murmur, even if her sharp eyes was anything but. That same pair of eyes were trained on Basilides as he introduced a young commonwoman as a skill seamstress. Her only greeting was a curt nod, but it was clear she wished for nothing but immediacy in the solution, and stepped back as the seamstress got to work, her eagle eyes watching every move.
Only when she was assured the seamstress had it well in hand, did the matriarch tear her eyes away from her daughter when Basilides made the offer. The marvelous headpiece managed to soften her gaze the moment she lay eyes on it, and a small smile briefly ghosted across her lips as her fingers brushed across the red garnets - another gentle but stark reminder that the Leventi purple would no longer be her daughter's primary colors.
Turning when Theodora approached, Evelli nodded to her daughter's request. "Of course, Theo." Why would she not? There was no need for Theodora to plead, for it would make every since for her to adorn herself with her new family's colors.
Taking the jewelry from the servants, Evelli herself fastened the shining diadem of garnets and gold in her offspring's hair, a soft hand briefly brushing any astray curls away from her forehead, before smiling gently at Theo. Her proclamation of being ready was yet another bittersweet pang for Evelli, but she had to swallow it. This was what her daughter was destined for, and with the way things had turned out, Theodora was seemingly set to be crown princess upon marriage as well. While she would've dearly loved for Olympia and Selene to both be present, Evelli could also not wait to board the ship to Colchis once she had ensured all was well with Theodora and her new husband.
Today was a day of new beginnings.
Nodding, Evelli allowed the servants to help Theodora with all her trappings, as the brunette led the way belowstairs, where conversations could clearly be heard. Entering the foyer where everyone was gathered in, Evelli signalled at a servant to get everyone's attention, before stepping aside to allow Theodora to enter, every bit the blushing bride she was. Evelli herself headed for Georgios, assuring the uneasy eyes of her husband. "All is well, Georgios. The wedding can proceed." Allowing the man to press a kiss to her cheek, she returned to Theodora's side, just a little to the back, and merely watched as Theodora proceeded to greet who would soon be her new family, and Georgios stepped forward to join King Irakles in the ceremonial process.
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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To a certain extent, much of Selene's grace and elegance in handling situations in a variety of difficulties had rubbed off on Theodora. If this had been Nana in the exact same position, Evelli was quite sure her younger daughter would have been screaming the rafters off and declaring teh day a grand disaster, yet Evelli felt a swell of pride in her chest as she saw her second-born's calm suggestions to Basilides in how to fix the matter - a far cry from Evelli's tight composure right now. While Theodora may be calm on the outside, Evelli radiated annoyance, for how dare her daughter's wedding be anything less then perfect.
While her second daughter's suggestion was meant in kindness, the matriarch shook her head at the offer. "Do not worry, your uncle and father have a good handle on things below. Beside's, the men would surely have a good number of words to exchange before you greet them." she replied with a soft murmur, even if her sharp eyes was anything but. That same pair of eyes were trained on Basilides as he introduced a young commonwoman as a skill seamstress. Her only greeting was a curt nod, but it was clear she wished for nothing but immediacy in the solution, and stepped back as the seamstress got to work, her eagle eyes watching every move.
Only when she was assured the seamstress had it well in hand, did the matriarch tear her eyes away from her daughter when Basilides made the offer. The marvelous headpiece managed to soften her gaze the moment she lay eyes on it, and a small smile briefly ghosted across her lips as her fingers brushed across the red garnets - another gentle but stark reminder that the Leventi purple would no longer be her daughter's primary colors.
Turning when Theodora approached, Evelli nodded to her daughter's request. "Of course, Theo." Why would she not? There was no need for Theodora to plead, for it would make every since for her to adorn herself with her new family's colors.
Taking the jewelry from the servants, Evelli herself fastened the shining diadem of garnets and gold in her offspring's hair, a soft hand briefly brushing any astray curls away from her forehead, before smiling gently at Theo. Her proclamation of being ready was yet another bittersweet pang for Evelli, but she had to swallow it. This was what her daughter was destined for, and with the way things had turned out, Theodora was seemingly set to be crown princess upon marriage as well. While she would've dearly loved for Olympia and Selene to both be present, Evelli could also not wait to board the ship to Colchis once she had ensured all was well with Theodora and her new husband.
Today was a day of new beginnings.
Nodding, Evelli allowed the servants to help Theodora with all her trappings, as the brunette led the way belowstairs, where conversations could clearly be heard. Entering the foyer where everyone was gathered in, Evelli signalled at a servant to get everyone's attention, before stepping aside to allow Theodora to enter, every bit the blushing bride she was. Evelli herself headed for Georgios, assuring the uneasy eyes of her husband. "All is well, Georgios. The wedding can proceed." Allowing the man to press a kiss to her cheek, she returned to Theodora's side, just a little to the back, and merely watched as Theodora proceeded to greet who would soon be her new family, and Georgios stepped forward to join King Irakles in the ceremonial process.
To a certain extent, much of Selene's grace and elegance in handling situations in a variety of difficulties had rubbed off on Theodora. If this had been Nana in the exact same position, Evelli was quite sure her younger daughter would have been screaming the rafters off and declaring teh day a grand disaster, yet Evelli felt a swell of pride in her chest as she saw her second-born's calm suggestions to Basilides in how to fix the matter - a far cry from Evelli's tight composure right now. While Theodora may be calm on the outside, Evelli radiated annoyance, for how dare her daughter's wedding be anything less then perfect.
While her second daughter's suggestion was meant in kindness, the matriarch shook her head at the offer. "Do not worry, your uncle and father have a good handle on things below. Beside's, the men would surely have a good number of words to exchange before you greet them." she replied with a soft murmur, even if her sharp eyes was anything but. That same pair of eyes were trained on Basilides as he introduced a young commonwoman as a skill seamstress. Her only greeting was a curt nod, but it was clear she wished for nothing but immediacy in the solution, and stepped back as the seamstress got to work, her eagle eyes watching every move.
Only when she was assured the seamstress had it well in hand, did the matriarch tear her eyes away from her daughter when Basilides made the offer. The marvelous headpiece managed to soften her gaze the moment she lay eyes on it, and a small smile briefly ghosted across her lips as her fingers brushed across the red garnets - another gentle but stark reminder that the Leventi purple would no longer be her daughter's primary colors.
Turning when Theodora approached, Evelli nodded to her daughter's request. "Of course, Theo." Why would she not? There was no need for Theodora to plead, for it would make every since for her to adorn herself with her new family's colors.
Taking the jewelry from the servants, Evelli herself fastened the shining diadem of garnets and gold in her offspring's hair, a soft hand briefly brushing any astray curls away from her forehead, before smiling gently at Theo. Her proclamation of being ready was yet another bittersweet pang for Evelli, but she had to swallow it. This was what her daughter was destined for, and with the way things had turned out, Theodora was seemingly set to be crown princess upon marriage as well. While she would've dearly loved for Olympia and Selene to both be present, Evelli could also not wait to board the ship to Colchis once she had ensured all was well with Theodora and her new husband.
Today was a day of new beginnings.
Nodding, Evelli allowed the servants to help Theodora with all her trappings, as the brunette led the way belowstairs, where conversations could clearly be heard. Entering the foyer where everyone was gathered in, Evelli signalled at a servant to get everyone's attention, before stepping aside to allow Theodora to enter, every bit the blushing bride she was. Evelli herself headed for Georgios, assuring the uneasy eyes of her husband. "All is well, Georgios. The wedding can proceed." Allowing the man to press a kiss to her cheek, she returned to Theodora's side, just a little to the back, and merely watched as Theodora proceeded to greet who would soon be her new family, and Georgios stepped forward to join King Irakles in the ceremonial process.
Irakles merely watched Achilleas and Emilios as they made their entrance with his wife, but until it became his turn, the man himself seemed merely dispassionate. Other's may think him simply anxious to get the big day done with, but Irakles also had a fair amount of his own internal mind to straighten up, including many affairs that needed his seeing to once the wedding was over, an event that had taken up much of everyone's time of late.
Smiling in return when Fotios greeted and responded to his queries, Irakles nodded in response at the man's suggestions. Afterall, it was true that they needed to see to the exchange of dowries before the rest of the ceremonial process took place, and his own servants trailed behind him with the various items that would be exchanged between the Leventi and Mikaelidas houses.
Of course, that had been the plan, had there not been...distractions. His gaze followed Fotios's, and unlike the sudden tightness in his friend's posture however, Irakles's eyes merely reflected curiousity at the small bleating lamb decorated with a red ribbon that had trailed in after one of Fotios's nieces (he could never really keep track of them all, and is having a tough time just with his future daughter-in-law's sisters).
"You heard Lord Fotios. Do the same." his low baritone instructed his own servants once Fotios directed his house help to the basilica with the dowries which consisted of much jewelry, a jar of fine gems, along with some cattle that were remaining outside, and a few chests containing fine linen and silks. The cattle would be symbolically given, for he doubted his friend would want half a dozen cows in his basilica. Irakles watched his own men dressed in Mikaelidas colors head as directed, and then turned back to Fotios and nodded as he chuckled heartily. "Indeed, we shall."
Clearing his suddenly itchy throat, Irakles stepped back to allow the younger ones to escort the ladies to the Leventi grounds of flowers and greenery, his servants lined up in a neat row upon their arrival, and Irakles settled back on his haunches as he observed the attendees milling about, either friends or family of either bride or groom.
A satisfied smile crossed his face at Fotios's proclamation, the joining of their families. Turning to follow Fotios's gaze, the soft arrival of the beautifully cladded bride brought a surge of satisfaction through the new King's chest, as he nodded his greeting to the Lady Evelli, and then the bride herself, before stepping forth to join Fotios upon where he stood. With a wave of his hand, his servants uncovered the trays of jewelry which had previously been covered by a square of silk, and opened the chests containing the fine linen and silk. "And for the most beautiful of brides, the Mikaelidas family in return offers a promise of the finest to ever touch her skin, and a life she would have no complaints of." The last was said with a touch of warning as his eyes flickered over to Achilleas - his son should know his duty, and Theodora would have need to produce proper Mikaelidas heirs even if Achilleas wanted to stray as well.
That was his duty.
Watching as the dowries exchanged hands, only then did the remaining of the servants he assumed had been arranged by the Leventi's materialize with the fruits and nuts to be shared by both families for a brief period of time. Even as they spoke, a carriage was prepared outside, where the immediate family of the bride and groom would join them in journeying to the Temple of the Gods, where the priest would be ready to bless and attire them appropriately for their marriage to be finalized.
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Irakles merely watched Achilleas and Emilios as they made their entrance with his wife, but until it became his turn, the man himself seemed merely dispassionate. Other's may think him simply anxious to get the big day done with, but Irakles also had a fair amount of his own internal mind to straighten up, including many affairs that needed his seeing to once the wedding was over, an event that had taken up much of everyone's time of late.
Smiling in return when Fotios greeted and responded to his queries, Irakles nodded in response at the man's suggestions. Afterall, it was true that they needed to see to the exchange of dowries before the rest of the ceremonial process took place, and his own servants trailed behind him with the various items that would be exchanged between the Leventi and Mikaelidas houses.
Of course, that had been the plan, had there not been...distractions. His gaze followed Fotios's, and unlike the sudden tightness in his friend's posture however, Irakles's eyes merely reflected curiousity at the small bleating lamb decorated with a red ribbon that had trailed in after one of Fotios's nieces (he could never really keep track of them all, and is having a tough time just with his future daughter-in-law's sisters).
"You heard Lord Fotios. Do the same." his low baritone instructed his own servants once Fotios directed his house help to the basilica with the dowries which consisted of much jewelry, a jar of fine gems, along with some cattle that were remaining outside, and a few chests containing fine linen and silks. The cattle would be symbolically given, for he doubted his friend would want half a dozen cows in his basilica. Irakles watched his own men dressed in Mikaelidas colors head as directed, and then turned back to Fotios and nodded as he chuckled heartily. "Indeed, we shall."
Clearing his suddenly itchy throat, Irakles stepped back to allow the younger ones to escort the ladies to the Leventi grounds of flowers and greenery, his servants lined up in a neat row upon their arrival, and Irakles settled back on his haunches as he observed the attendees milling about, either friends or family of either bride or groom.
A satisfied smile crossed his face at Fotios's proclamation, the joining of their families. Turning to follow Fotios's gaze, the soft arrival of the beautifully cladded bride brought a surge of satisfaction through the new King's chest, as he nodded his greeting to the Lady Evelli, and then the bride herself, before stepping forth to join Fotios upon where he stood. With a wave of his hand, his servants uncovered the trays of jewelry which had previously been covered by a square of silk, and opened the chests containing the fine linen and silk. "And for the most beautiful of brides, the Mikaelidas family in return offers a promise of the finest to ever touch her skin, and a life she would have no complaints of." The last was said with a touch of warning as his eyes flickered over to Achilleas - his son should know his duty, and Theodora would have need to produce proper Mikaelidas heirs even if Achilleas wanted to stray as well.
That was his duty.
Watching as the dowries exchanged hands, only then did the remaining of the servants he assumed had been arranged by the Leventi's materialize with the fruits and nuts to be shared by both families for a brief period of time. Even as they spoke, a carriage was prepared outside, where the immediate family of the bride and groom would join them in journeying to the Temple of the Gods, where the priest would be ready to bless and attire them appropriately for their marriage to be finalized.
Irakles merely watched Achilleas and Emilios as they made their entrance with his wife, but until it became his turn, the man himself seemed merely dispassionate. Other's may think him simply anxious to get the big day done with, but Irakles also had a fair amount of his own internal mind to straighten up, including many affairs that needed his seeing to once the wedding was over, an event that had taken up much of everyone's time of late.
Smiling in return when Fotios greeted and responded to his queries, Irakles nodded in response at the man's suggestions. Afterall, it was true that they needed to see to the exchange of dowries before the rest of the ceremonial process took place, and his own servants trailed behind him with the various items that would be exchanged between the Leventi and Mikaelidas houses.
Of course, that had been the plan, had there not been...distractions. His gaze followed Fotios's, and unlike the sudden tightness in his friend's posture however, Irakles's eyes merely reflected curiousity at the small bleating lamb decorated with a red ribbon that had trailed in after one of Fotios's nieces (he could never really keep track of them all, and is having a tough time just with his future daughter-in-law's sisters).
"You heard Lord Fotios. Do the same." his low baritone instructed his own servants once Fotios directed his house help to the basilica with the dowries which consisted of much jewelry, a jar of fine gems, along with some cattle that were remaining outside, and a few chests containing fine linen and silks. The cattle would be symbolically given, for he doubted his friend would want half a dozen cows in his basilica. Irakles watched his own men dressed in Mikaelidas colors head as directed, and then turned back to Fotios and nodded as he chuckled heartily. "Indeed, we shall."
Clearing his suddenly itchy throat, Irakles stepped back to allow the younger ones to escort the ladies to the Leventi grounds of flowers and greenery, his servants lined up in a neat row upon their arrival, and Irakles settled back on his haunches as he observed the attendees milling about, either friends or family of either bride or groom.
A satisfied smile crossed his face at Fotios's proclamation, the joining of their families. Turning to follow Fotios's gaze, the soft arrival of the beautifully cladded bride brought a surge of satisfaction through the new King's chest, as he nodded his greeting to the Lady Evelli, and then the bride herself, before stepping forth to join Fotios upon where he stood. With a wave of his hand, his servants uncovered the trays of jewelry which had previously been covered by a square of silk, and opened the chests containing the fine linen and silk. "And for the most beautiful of brides, the Mikaelidas family in return offers a promise of the finest to ever touch her skin, and a life she would have no complaints of." The last was said with a touch of warning as his eyes flickered over to Achilleas - his son should know his duty, and Theodora would have need to produce proper Mikaelidas heirs even if Achilleas wanted to stray as well.
That was his duty.
Watching as the dowries exchanged hands, only then did the remaining of the servants he assumed had been arranged by the Leventi's materialize with the fruits and nuts to be shared by both families for a brief period of time. Even as they spoke, a carriage was prepared outside, where the immediate family of the bride and groom would join them in journeying to the Temple of the Gods, where the priest would be ready to bless and attire them appropriately for their marriage to be finalized.
This part of the arrangements was one that Achilleas had little part in. It had been his father and the Lord Fotios who had agreed the more businesslike elements of the transaction, the financial and symbolic investments that each of their two households made into this union. Perhaps that really was what had seen them so often in each others’ company. As his gaze shifted between them, Achilleas pushed away the speculation and turned to the Lady Nana as the young woman approached. He offered his arm along with a small smile and attempt at some humour to set her at ease “No shoulder ride today, Lady Nana?” he asked in an undertone as they began to walk.
She had grown up some, he thought, since the last time he had walked her anywhere. But apparently had not lost any of her ability to fill a space with chatter, he realised, as they followed the others through the manor gardens. Achilleas gave a slight nod, for it was strange to think that after so long waiting - and he felt like he had been waiting for Theodora for a long time - that this day had finally come. Stranger still that it had fallen amongst such upheaval all around them, and yet everyone was pretending everything was normal. He did not give voice to such thoughts though, rather let Nana go on until the girl’s rather incoherent babbling had ceased. He appreciated the effort nevertheless “You are kind” he said. “Let us hope the Gods favour us with their goodwill today, if such is the case.”
They had reached the basilica now, and Achilleas saw her carefully up the steps before he released her arm and took his place beside his father, unable to prevent his gaze from shifting back toward the manor to see if there was any sign of his bride yet. It was not that he was worried he told himself, but he did feel rather alone in this as it stood. It would be easier with her by his side.
But it was Lady Evangelina leading the servants presenting the dowry who came next, and then the Lady Eirini who stepped up to stand beside her husband. Everyone was gathered now, they were just missing a bride, and the bride’s mother. Achilleas felt the butterflies that had danced in his stomach all morning flutter back to life with a vengeance. It was worse, he thought, only because there had been so many setbacks and delays. It was expected that he might feel apprehensive after such a run up. Or it was the strange circumstances that provided the backdrop for the day. Turning to show some polite attention to the ritual presentation of the dowry, Achilleas did not really see, his mind entirely elsewhere. It was only when he heard Fotios herald Theodora’s arrival that he snapped back to the present, feeling an irrational flood of relief that she had come, that she was here.
Little more than a step then, for him to turn and to see his bride approach, and he could not have told you what he had done next. For there was Theo, radiant as the sun itself, and Achilleas felt his breath catch. He knew her fair, had seen it all those years ago when she had been windswept and barefoot in a field. And he had seen her presented for court, draped in silk and gold. But there was something that elevated her beyond even that today. The knowledge that she was finally to be his, perhaps.
His gaze did not leave her as she made the short journey to the basilica, nor when she curtsied to Fotios and his father. And when finally she lifted her eyes to him,he smiled. The softest of encouraging smiles, because he chanced he saw in her too some of the nervousness that he felt himself. “You are breathtaking” he murmured,ignoring the fact that his father had moved and was beginning to speak. She was too far from him still, and Achilleas reached out to take her hand within his own, because it felt wrong not to. From there gave her hand a tentative squeeze, this woman who was to be his wife, before he finally dragged his eyes away to where Irakles was talking.
The look his father sent his way as he spoke was unmerited, and yet hardly unsurprising, Achilleas looking back at him a moment only before he turned his attention to Theodora once more. The exchange of the dowries complete, they had a brief interlude before they would go to the temple, and before they could be distracted by their respective families, he wanted to speak to his betrothed.
“Honestly...the most beautiful thing I have ever set eyes on” he said, stepping in toward her and taking a moment to appreciate all that stood before him. He would have liked to have said more, but servants were already presenting platters: sweet figs steeped in honey, oranges and persimmons, hazelnuts and almonds, and Achilleas was forced to allow a more proper distance between them as one such offering was passed their way. “How has your morning been?” he managed to ask Theo, before turning a smile on the Lady Evelli who he had not yet greeted. “My Lady, your daughter is a credit to you, and I consider myself blessed already.” He bowed to the woman, who he could not help but think would be missing the presence of her other daughters, as he himself missed the presence of his cousin on this day.
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Check out their information page here.
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This part of the arrangements was one that Achilleas had little part in. It had been his father and the Lord Fotios who had agreed the more businesslike elements of the transaction, the financial and symbolic investments that each of their two households made into this union. Perhaps that really was what had seen them so often in each others’ company. As his gaze shifted between them, Achilleas pushed away the speculation and turned to the Lady Nana as the young woman approached. He offered his arm along with a small smile and attempt at some humour to set her at ease “No shoulder ride today, Lady Nana?” he asked in an undertone as they began to walk.
She had grown up some, he thought, since the last time he had walked her anywhere. But apparently had not lost any of her ability to fill a space with chatter, he realised, as they followed the others through the manor gardens. Achilleas gave a slight nod, for it was strange to think that after so long waiting - and he felt like he had been waiting for Theodora for a long time - that this day had finally come. Stranger still that it had fallen amongst such upheaval all around them, and yet everyone was pretending everything was normal. He did not give voice to such thoughts though, rather let Nana go on until the girl’s rather incoherent babbling had ceased. He appreciated the effort nevertheless “You are kind” he said. “Let us hope the Gods favour us with their goodwill today, if such is the case.”
They had reached the basilica now, and Achilleas saw her carefully up the steps before he released her arm and took his place beside his father, unable to prevent his gaze from shifting back toward the manor to see if there was any sign of his bride yet. It was not that he was worried he told himself, but he did feel rather alone in this as it stood. It would be easier with her by his side.
But it was Lady Evangelina leading the servants presenting the dowry who came next, and then the Lady Eirini who stepped up to stand beside her husband. Everyone was gathered now, they were just missing a bride, and the bride’s mother. Achilleas felt the butterflies that had danced in his stomach all morning flutter back to life with a vengeance. It was worse, he thought, only because there had been so many setbacks and delays. It was expected that he might feel apprehensive after such a run up. Or it was the strange circumstances that provided the backdrop for the day. Turning to show some polite attention to the ritual presentation of the dowry, Achilleas did not really see, his mind entirely elsewhere. It was only when he heard Fotios herald Theodora’s arrival that he snapped back to the present, feeling an irrational flood of relief that she had come, that she was here.
Little more than a step then, for him to turn and to see his bride approach, and he could not have told you what he had done next. For there was Theo, radiant as the sun itself, and Achilleas felt his breath catch. He knew her fair, had seen it all those years ago when she had been windswept and barefoot in a field. And he had seen her presented for court, draped in silk and gold. But there was something that elevated her beyond even that today. The knowledge that she was finally to be his, perhaps.
His gaze did not leave her as she made the short journey to the basilica, nor when she curtsied to Fotios and his father. And when finally she lifted her eyes to him,he smiled. The softest of encouraging smiles, because he chanced he saw in her too some of the nervousness that he felt himself. “You are breathtaking” he murmured,ignoring the fact that his father had moved and was beginning to speak. She was too far from him still, and Achilleas reached out to take her hand within his own, because it felt wrong not to. From there gave her hand a tentative squeeze, this woman who was to be his wife, before he finally dragged his eyes away to where Irakles was talking.
The look his father sent his way as he spoke was unmerited, and yet hardly unsurprising, Achilleas looking back at him a moment only before he turned his attention to Theodora once more. The exchange of the dowries complete, they had a brief interlude before they would go to the temple, and before they could be distracted by their respective families, he wanted to speak to his betrothed.
“Honestly...the most beautiful thing I have ever set eyes on” he said, stepping in toward her and taking a moment to appreciate all that stood before him. He would have liked to have said more, but servants were already presenting platters: sweet figs steeped in honey, oranges and persimmons, hazelnuts and almonds, and Achilleas was forced to allow a more proper distance between them as one such offering was passed their way. “How has your morning been?” he managed to ask Theo, before turning a smile on the Lady Evelli who he had not yet greeted. “My Lady, your daughter is a credit to you, and I consider myself blessed already.” He bowed to the woman, who he could not help but think would be missing the presence of her other daughters, as he himself missed the presence of his cousin on this day.
This part of the arrangements was one that Achilleas had little part in. It had been his father and the Lord Fotios who had agreed the more businesslike elements of the transaction, the financial and symbolic investments that each of their two households made into this union. Perhaps that really was what had seen them so often in each others’ company. As his gaze shifted between them, Achilleas pushed away the speculation and turned to the Lady Nana as the young woman approached. He offered his arm along with a small smile and attempt at some humour to set her at ease “No shoulder ride today, Lady Nana?” he asked in an undertone as they began to walk.
She had grown up some, he thought, since the last time he had walked her anywhere. But apparently had not lost any of her ability to fill a space with chatter, he realised, as they followed the others through the manor gardens. Achilleas gave a slight nod, for it was strange to think that after so long waiting - and he felt like he had been waiting for Theodora for a long time - that this day had finally come. Stranger still that it had fallen amongst such upheaval all around them, and yet everyone was pretending everything was normal. He did not give voice to such thoughts though, rather let Nana go on until the girl’s rather incoherent babbling had ceased. He appreciated the effort nevertheless “You are kind” he said. “Let us hope the Gods favour us with their goodwill today, if such is the case.”
They had reached the basilica now, and Achilleas saw her carefully up the steps before he released her arm and took his place beside his father, unable to prevent his gaze from shifting back toward the manor to see if there was any sign of his bride yet. It was not that he was worried he told himself, but he did feel rather alone in this as it stood. It would be easier with her by his side.
But it was Lady Evangelina leading the servants presenting the dowry who came next, and then the Lady Eirini who stepped up to stand beside her husband. Everyone was gathered now, they were just missing a bride, and the bride’s mother. Achilleas felt the butterflies that had danced in his stomach all morning flutter back to life with a vengeance. It was worse, he thought, only because there had been so many setbacks and delays. It was expected that he might feel apprehensive after such a run up. Or it was the strange circumstances that provided the backdrop for the day. Turning to show some polite attention to the ritual presentation of the dowry, Achilleas did not really see, his mind entirely elsewhere. It was only when he heard Fotios herald Theodora’s arrival that he snapped back to the present, feeling an irrational flood of relief that she had come, that she was here.
Little more than a step then, for him to turn and to see his bride approach, and he could not have told you what he had done next. For there was Theo, radiant as the sun itself, and Achilleas felt his breath catch. He knew her fair, had seen it all those years ago when she had been windswept and barefoot in a field. And he had seen her presented for court, draped in silk and gold. But there was something that elevated her beyond even that today. The knowledge that she was finally to be his, perhaps.
His gaze did not leave her as she made the short journey to the basilica, nor when she curtsied to Fotios and his father. And when finally she lifted her eyes to him,he smiled. The softest of encouraging smiles, because he chanced he saw in her too some of the nervousness that he felt himself. “You are breathtaking” he murmured,ignoring the fact that his father had moved and was beginning to speak. She was too far from him still, and Achilleas reached out to take her hand within his own, because it felt wrong not to. From there gave her hand a tentative squeeze, this woman who was to be his wife, before he finally dragged his eyes away to where Irakles was talking.
The look his father sent his way as he spoke was unmerited, and yet hardly unsurprising, Achilleas looking back at him a moment only before he turned his attention to Theodora once more. The exchange of the dowries complete, they had a brief interlude before they would go to the temple, and before they could be distracted by their respective families, he wanted to speak to his betrothed.
“Honestly...the most beautiful thing I have ever set eyes on” he said, stepping in toward her and taking a moment to appreciate all that stood before him. He would have liked to have said more, but servants were already presenting platters: sweet figs steeped in honey, oranges and persimmons, hazelnuts and almonds, and Achilleas was forced to allow a more proper distance between them as one such offering was passed their way. “How has your morning been?” he managed to ask Theo, before turning a smile on the Lady Evelli who he had not yet greeted. “My Lady, your daughter is a credit to you, and I consider myself blessed already.” He bowed to the woman, who he could not help but think would be missing the presence of her other daughters, as he himself missed the presence of his cousin on this day.
It was a grandiose affair, one that Eirini had spent much of the morning orchestrating from her chambers whilst she herself prepared for the wedding with the utmost diligence and fuss, as though she were the bride herself. Then again that was nothing new for the Lady of Leventi, a woman who thrived off the attention garnered by her beauty, magnificence and charm.
Eirini had dictated the servants roles the night before, expecting them to work efficiently and effectively to ensure that everything was no less than perfect; she need not reiterate the punishment awaiting anyone who did not preform to her standards, and so thus far, everything had been going according to plan... at least on her part.
Naturally, the news had been brought to her about the issue with Theodora's dress and despite a momentary rise of concern that had welled in her breast, Eirini had allowed Evelli to deal with it – she was after all the girls mother, and even Eirini could respect that there were certain things best left to the mother of the bride.
Personally, Eirini could not wait for the chance to act in such a role for her own daughters. As her ladies fussed with her hair, Eirini quietly day-dreamed about the image with a content smile upon her reddened lips. She thought about adorning Agapes beautiful silken tresses with delicate flowers; fussing over Melina's gown – how utterly breathtaking she would look in white! Then there was Dafni, and right in that moment Eirini decided that upon her wedding, she would gift her youngest daughter with that necklace she was so fond of.
Three daughters, all equally different and yet Eirini could genuinely say that she looked forward to the day each one of them would have a chance to shine, as Theodora would today – she even made a mental note to bring it up with Fotios once again.
Finally emerging from her rooms, Eirini wore a lavender gown with gold accessories and a golden diadem upon her crown. She moved with purposeful steps towards the festivities, but before she stepped out, she made sure to do a quick inspection of the serving girls who were set to follow.
Satisfied by their appearance, she lead them out into the sunlight, a slight flick of her wrist giving them the sign they needed to go and preform their duties.
Spotting her husband with the King and the bridegroom, Eirini moved towards him, exchanging pleasantries with those whom she passed, the promise of more of her time after the ceremony – finally, she came to stand beside Fotios and inclined her head towards Irakles and Achilleas, "Majesty.." With a pretty smile upon her features, her husband spoke on behalf of the family in the expression of their happiness over this union, but not a great deal more could be uttered before the bride made her appearance.
Eirini must confess that her niece looked breathtakingly beautiful, the sun seem to radiate from her and despite there being no blood relation between then, the familial pride was abundant. Though, she could not help but spare a glance towards Emilios and the look that gazed his countenance... a small injustice, Eirini thought, but a necessary one.
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It was a grandiose affair, one that Eirini had spent much of the morning orchestrating from her chambers whilst she herself prepared for the wedding with the utmost diligence and fuss, as though she were the bride herself. Then again that was nothing new for the Lady of Leventi, a woman who thrived off the attention garnered by her beauty, magnificence and charm.
Eirini had dictated the servants roles the night before, expecting them to work efficiently and effectively to ensure that everything was no less than perfect; she need not reiterate the punishment awaiting anyone who did not preform to her standards, and so thus far, everything had been going according to plan... at least on her part.
Naturally, the news had been brought to her about the issue with Theodora's dress and despite a momentary rise of concern that had welled in her breast, Eirini had allowed Evelli to deal with it – she was after all the girls mother, and even Eirini could respect that there were certain things best left to the mother of the bride.
Personally, Eirini could not wait for the chance to act in such a role for her own daughters. As her ladies fussed with her hair, Eirini quietly day-dreamed about the image with a content smile upon her reddened lips. She thought about adorning Agapes beautiful silken tresses with delicate flowers; fussing over Melina's gown – how utterly breathtaking she would look in white! Then there was Dafni, and right in that moment Eirini decided that upon her wedding, she would gift her youngest daughter with that necklace she was so fond of.
Three daughters, all equally different and yet Eirini could genuinely say that she looked forward to the day each one of them would have a chance to shine, as Theodora would today – she even made a mental note to bring it up with Fotios once again.
Finally emerging from her rooms, Eirini wore a lavender gown with gold accessories and a golden diadem upon her crown. She moved with purposeful steps towards the festivities, but before she stepped out, she made sure to do a quick inspection of the serving girls who were set to follow.
Satisfied by their appearance, she lead them out into the sunlight, a slight flick of her wrist giving them the sign they needed to go and preform their duties.
Spotting her husband with the King and the bridegroom, Eirini moved towards him, exchanging pleasantries with those whom she passed, the promise of more of her time after the ceremony – finally, she came to stand beside Fotios and inclined her head towards Irakles and Achilleas, "Majesty.." With a pretty smile upon her features, her husband spoke on behalf of the family in the expression of their happiness over this union, but not a great deal more could be uttered before the bride made her appearance.
Eirini must confess that her niece looked breathtakingly beautiful, the sun seem to radiate from her and despite there being no blood relation between then, the familial pride was abundant. Though, she could not help but spare a glance towards Emilios and the look that gazed his countenance... a small injustice, Eirini thought, but a necessary one.
It was a grandiose affair, one that Eirini had spent much of the morning orchestrating from her chambers whilst she herself prepared for the wedding with the utmost diligence and fuss, as though she were the bride herself. Then again that was nothing new for the Lady of Leventi, a woman who thrived off the attention garnered by her beauty, magnificence and charm.
Eirini had dictated the servants roles the night before, expecting them to work efficiently and effectively to ensure that everything was no less than perfect; she need not reiterate the punishment awaiting anyone who did not preform to her standards, and so thus far, everything had been going according to plan... at least on her part.
Naturally, the news had been brought to her about the issue with Theodora's dress and despite a momentary rise of concern that had welled in her breast, Eirini had allowed Evelli to deal with it – she was after all the girls mother, and even Eirini could respect that there were certain things best left to the mother of the bride.
Personally, Eirini could not wait for the chance to act in such a role for her own daughters. As her ladies fussed with her hair, Eirini quietly day-dreamed about the image with a content smile upon her reddened lips. She thought about adorning Agapes beautiful silken tresses with delicate flowers; fussing over Melina's gown – how utterly breathtaking she would look in white! Then there was Dafni, and right in that moment Eirini decided that upon her wedding, she would gift her youngest daughter with that necklace she was so fond of.
Three daughters, all equally different and yet Eirini could genuinely say that she looked forward to the day each one of them would have a chance to shine, as Theodora would today – she even made a mental note to bring it up with Fotios once again.
Finally emerging from her rooms, Eirini wore a lavender gown with gold accessories and a golden diadem upon her crown. She moved with purposeful steps towards the festivities, but before she stepped out, she made sure to do a quick inspection of the serving girls who were set to follow.
Satisfied by their appearance, she lead them out into the sunlight, a slight flick of her wrist giving them the sign they needed to go and preform their duties.
Spotting her husband with the King and the bridegroom, Eirini moved towards him, exchanging pleasantries with those whom she passed, the promise of more of her time after the ceremony – finally, she came to stand beside Fotios and inclined her head towards Irakles and Achilleas, "Majesty.." With a pretty smile upon her features, her husband spoke on behalf of the family in the expression of their happiness over this union, but not a great deal more could be uttered before the bride made her appearance.
Eirini must confess that her niece looked breathtakingly beautiful, the sun seem to radiate from her and despite there being no blood relation between then, the familial pride was abundant. Though, she could not help but spare a glance towards Emilios and the look that gazed his countenance... a small injustice, Eirini thought, but a necessary one.
The nerves that, despite all her internal decisions, were still tinged with the tiniest threads of apprehension, were turned to hopeful excitement when her eyes met that of her future husband. His face upon seeing her - the look of sheer rapture - had her heart squeezing tight in her chest, her cheeks flushing with self-consciousness.
Normally a confident woman, used to being stared at and commented on as blessed by the great Goddess of Beauty, Theodora was a stranger to the feeling. But there was something unique about experiencing such a complimentary gaze from the man you were pledging to marry, over strangers in Court. Something deeply personal when it was solely one set of eyes boring into your own rather than a crowd of nondescripts.
When it was a man of Achilleas stature; of his breeding, his family, his status as baron and now crown prince - not to mention his appearance was one of the handsomest men in Taengea; who was offering a look such as that... it was impossible not to regress into a sweet shyness that had Theo glancing at her feet in a moment of trepidation and smiling at his words of praise.
Glancing back at the man soon to be her husband, Theo felt her teeth claim her lower lip just slightly, as if she were nervous to let her smile fly into its most vibrant, determined to remain serene and yet entirely spoiling the effect by appearing puckish. As if she and Achilleas had shared a private secret in his beautiful words.
She straightened her shoulders for a moment, keeping her eyes on Fotios and the King as dowries were shared and the servants presented by her aunt were permitted to circulate. It was as she exhaled that she realised she had been holding her breath.
Now their union was legal.
They would be travelling to the Temple of the Gods in order to make it religiously binding. And then it would be as official husband and wife that they arrived at the Mikaelidas archontiko for the festivities that accompanied a wedding. Such a long and prestigious process. But the first third was now complete.
When Achilleas took her hand half way through the private little ceremony between the Houses, Theo was quick to return the reassuring squeeze. For now, she had no regrets that were worth mentioning and no concerns that were worth lingering upon on such a day. They were married. In the eyes of the legal system of Taengea, they were married. With the Gods' seal of approval, it would be final but never had anyone cancelled an arrangement only half unified.
She kept her eyes studiously away from Emilios.
Her attentions were drawn back to her now almost-husband as he murmured in her ear further rapture. Her lashes lowered and her smile broadened once more, breaking plumply free of her teeth.
She opened her mouth to compliment him in return - for he looked so fine in the royal colours of his House - but they were interrupted by the appearance of small, bite-sized refreshments on a silver tray. A solid reminder that despite it being their lives that were being entwined this day, their own desires - for privacy or anything else - were at the bottom of the pecking order. Raising a hand to refuse the items - for she did not wish to risk a dress already edited that morning - she was about to offer up her truthful assessment of the fact that Achilleas' chiton made him look taller, his himation broadening his shoulders into a ratio most pleasing, when he asked her of her morning.
When he finished offering his words to her mother, Theo watched him with brightness in her eyes.
"How was my morning?" She repeated, his words back, in a low voice of privacy despite those surrounding them. Her lips curled into an almost teasing lilt. "You speak with such civility, Achilleas..." As if they were not standing in the midst of their family, unifying their worlds into one at this very moment. Whilst she had declined any of the food, she did reach for a chalice of water, keeping her other hand firmly within his. "Might I think you a little nervous, husband?" She asked in a teasing tone. She raised her cup and sipped from its rim, the water moistening her mouth into a shine that rivalled her gaze.
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The nerves that, despite all her internal decisions, were still tinged with the tiniest threads of apprehension, were turned to hopeful excitement when her eyes met that of her future husband. His face upon seeing her - the look of sheer rapture - had her heart squeezing tight in her chest, her cheeks flushing with self-consciousness.
Normally a confident woman, used to being stared at and commented on as blessed by the great Goddess of Beauty, Theodora was a stranger to the feeling. But there was something unique about experiencing such a complimentary gaze from the man you were pledging to marry, over strangers in Court. Something deeply personal when it was solely one set of eyes boring into your own rather than a crowd of nondescripts.
When it was a man of Achilleas stature; of his breeding, his family, his status as baron and now crown prince - not to mention his appearance was one of the handsomest men in Taengea; who was offering a look such as that... it was impossible not to regress into a sweet shyness that had Theo glancing at her feet in a moment of trepidation and smiling at his words of praise.
Glancing back at the man soon to be her husband, Theo felt her teeth claim her lower lip just slightly, as if she were nervous to let her smile fly into its most vibrant, determined to remain serene and yet entirely spoiling the effect by appearing puckish. As if she and Achilleas had shared a private secret in his beautiful words.
She straightened her shoulders for a moment, keeping her eyes on Fotios and the King as dowries were shared and the servants presented by her aunt were permitted to circulate. It was as she exhaled that she realised she had been holding her breath.
Now their union was legal.
They would be travelling to the Temple of the Gods in order to make it religiously binding. And then it would be as official husband and wife that they arrived at the Mikaelidas archontiko for the festivities that accompanied a wedding. Such a long and prestigious process. But the first third was now complete.
When Achilleas took her hand half way through the private little ceremony between the Houses, Theo was quick to return the reassuring squeeze. For now, she had no regrets that were worth mentioning and no concerns that were worth lingering upon on such a day. They were married. In the eyes of the legal system of Taengea, they were married. With the Gods' seal of approval, it would be final but never had anyone cancelled an arrangement only half unified.
She kept her eyes studiously away from Emilios.
Her attentions were drawn back to her now almost-husband as he murmured in her ear further rapture. Her lashes lowered and her smile broadened once more, breaking plumply free of her teeth.
She opened her mouth to compliment him in return - for he looked so fine in the royal colours of his House - but they were interrupted by the appearance of small, bite-sized refreshments on a silver tray. A solid reminder that despite it being their lives that were being entwined this day, their own desires - for privacy or anything else - were at the bottom of the pecking order. Raising a hand to refuse the items - for she did not wish to risk a dress already edited that morning - she was about to offer up her truthful assessment of the fact that Achilleas' chiton made him look taller, his himation broadening his shoulders into a ratio most pleasing, when he asked her of her morning.
When he finished offering his words to her mother, Theo watched him with brightness in her eyes.
"How was my morning?" She repeated, his words back, in a low voice of privacy despite those surrounding them. Her lips curled into an almost teasing lilt. "You speak with such civility, Achilleas..." As if they were not standing in the midst of their family, unifying their worlds into one at this very moment. Whilst she had declined any of the food, she did reach for a chalice of water, keeping her other hand firmly within his. "Might I think you a little nervous, husband?" She asked in a teasing tone. She raised her cup and sipped from its rim, the water moistening her mouth into a shine that rivalled her gaze.
The nerves that, despite all her internal decisions, were still tinged with the tiniest threads of apprehension, were turned to hopeful excitement when her eyes met that of her future husband. His face upon seeing her - the look of sheer rapture - had her heart squeezing tight in her chest, her cheeks flushing with self-consciousness.
Normally a confident woman, used to being stared at and commented on as blessed by the great Goddess of Beauty, Theodora was a stranger to the feeling. But there was something unique about experiencing such a complimentary gaze from the man you were pledging to marry, over strangers in Court. Something deeply personal when it was solely one set of eyes boring into your own rather than a crowd of nondescripts.
When it was a man of Achilleas stature; of his breeding, his family, his status as baron and now crown prince - not to mention his appearance was one of the handsomest men in Taengea; who was offering a look such as that... it was impossible not to regress into a sweet shyness that had Theo glancing at her feet in a moment of trepidation and smiling at his words of praise.
Glancing back at the man soon to be her husband, Theo felt her teeth claim her lower lip just slightly, as if she were nervous to let her smile fly into its most vibrant, determined to remain serene and yet entirely spoiling the effect by appearing puckish. As if she and Achilleas had shared a private secret in his beautiful words.
She straightened her shoulders for a moment, keeping her eyes on Fotios and the King as dowries were shared and the servants presented by her aunt were permitted to circulate. It was as she exhaled that she realised she had been holding her breath.
Now their union was legal.
They would be travelling to the Temple of the Gods in order to make it religiously binding. And then it would be as official husband and wife that they arrived at the Mikaelidas archontiko for the festivities that accompanied a wedding. Such a long and prestigious process. But the first third was now complete.
When Achilleas took her hand half way through the private little ceremony between the Houses, Theo was quick to return the reassuring squeeze. For now, she had no regrets that were worth mentioning and no concerns that were worth lingering upon on such a day. They were married. In the eyes of the legal system of Taengea, they were married. With the Gods' seal of approval, it would be final but never had anyone cancelled an arrangement only half unified.
She kept her eyes studiously away from Emilios.
Her attentions were drawn back to her now almost-husband as he murmured in her ear further rapture. Her lashes lowered and her smile broadened once more, breaking plumply free of her teeth.
She opened her mouth to compliment him in return - for he looked so fine in the royal colours of his House - but they were interrupted by the appearance of small, bite-sized refreshments on a silver tray. A solid reminder that despite it being their lives that were being entwined this day, their own desires - for privacy or anything else - were at the bottom of the pecking order. Raising a hand to refuse the items - for she did not wish to risk a dress already edited that morning - she was about to offer up her truthful assessment of the fact that Achilleas' chiton made him look taller, his himation broadening his shoulders into a ratio most pleasing, when he asked her of her morning.
When he finished offering his words to her mother, Theo watched him with brightness in her eyes.
"How was my morning?" She repeated, his words back, in a low voice of privacy despite those surrounding them. Her lips curled into an almost teasing lilt. "You speak with such civility, Achilleas..." As if they were not standing in the midst of their family, unifying their worlds into one at this very moment. Whilst she had declined any of the food, she did reach for a chalice of water, keeping her other hand firmly within his. "Might I think you a little nervous, husband?" She asked in a teasing tone. She raised her cup and sipped from its rim, the water moistening her mouth into a shine that rivalled her gaze.
If he was asked what happened when they entered the room, he wouldn’t have been able to say for sure. One minute, he was playfully teasing the youngest Leventi about the stains on her fingertips, the next he had forgotten how to breathe.
Emilios couldn’t help his stare, nor could he manage to keep his thoughts on the task at hand. He had promised to Fotios, but moreso to himself, that he would make sure this marriage happened. If Theo didn’t become Achilleas’ wife, the whole Leventi line on Georgios’s side would be ruined. Selene and Pia were gone, with Pia at least already married and ‘safe’, so to speak. And the Lady Selene seemed to all but have the Prince of Colchis on lock down, thought Emilios couldn’t quite understand her desire to marry the cold man.
But Nana and Imma, and even Theodora herself, could easily be destitute if Fotios decided it was their fate. And he had already made a point to let Emilios know that it was wholly up to him on what happened.
Still, his eyes were on Theo as she walked in. He was glad that everyone seemed to be focused on her, so his own gaze wasn’t over analyzed by those around him. And the person who would care-- Achilleas-- wasn’t even looking at him in the first place. She was exquisite in white, her looks putting Aphrodite herself to absolute shame. Hair dark against pale skin, the image of her naked against his bedding with her high contrast ripped at his gut. Today should have been his wedding day to her. He should have been the one marrying her. He felt eyes on him, looking towards the source. Georgios, who knew of their affections for one another, gave him a subtle shake of his head.
Stop looking, it said. She is not yours.
He could feel the sharp sting of acid backing its way up into his throat, and it was close to impossible to swallow it down.
Emilios separated himself from Imma, allowing himself to break his eye contact from Theo to search for anything else to distract him from the moment. He did not need to see them stare fondly at each other. He did not need to see the nervous way his brother seemed to function around his now bride. That should have been him.
He would have pointed out her own apparent nerves, and the two would have spent the remainder of the day in a jest-filled bliss. They would have been contagious laughter, the two unable to really take themselves too seriously when together in the first place. He had never experienced the bonds of duty so firm, suffocating him in their desires for him to do as he had promised to do.
And suddenly, he found himself unable to breath for wholly another reason.
Emilios didn’t care that his father would find him behavior appalling. He didn’t care that he would be judged for his actions. The only thing he cared about was getting out of the room, to find fresh air and to feel anything but the unexpected grief that took hold of him and refused to let go. This day had always seemed like a pipedream, being pushed further and further back that he was sure that it would never come, that he would be able to step in without guilt and make her his.
Plucking a drink off a tray, he found the nearest exit, needing a moment to gather himself before he could plaster a smile on his face and look happy for his brother.
To have it here, and happening, and real, was a nightmare. He felt as if he was drowning in the Styx with no boat to save him. And now, watching the way she looked at his brother, having seen that looked mirrored in his own eyes, made him almost wish for the welcoming embrace of Hades. He knew his betrayal had happened first, knew that he would have to continue to betray his brother.
But he felt as if the insult had first been given to him. Once again, he was lost in the shadow of the perfect son.
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This character is currently a work in progress.
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If he was asked what happened when they entered the room, he wouldn’t have been able to say for sure. One minute, he was playfully teasing the youngest Leventi about the stains on her fingertips, the next he had forgotten how to breathe.
Emilios couldn’t help his stare, nor could he manage to keep his thoughts on the task at hand. He had promised to Fotios, but moreso to himself, that he would make sure this marriage happened. If Theo didn’t become Achilleas’ wife, the whole Leventi line on Georgios’s side would be ruined. Selene and Pia were gone, with Pia at least already married and ‘safe’, so to speak. And the Lady Selene seemed to all but have the Prince of Colchis on lock down, thought Emilios couldn’t quite understand her desire to marry the cold man.
But Nana and Imma, and even Theodora herself, could easily be destitute if Fotios decided it was their fate. And he had already made a point to let Emilios know that it was wholly up to him on what happened.
Still, his eyes were on Theo as she walked in. He was glad that everyone seemed to be focused on her, so his own gaze wasn’t over analyzed by those around him. And the person who would care-- Achilleas-- wasn’t even looking at him in the first place. She was exquisite in white, her looks putting Aphrodite herself to absolute shame. Hair dark against pale skin, the image of her naked against his bedding with her high contrast ripped at his gut. Today should have been his wedding day to her. He should have been the one marrying her. He felt eyes on him, looking towards the source. Georgios, who knew of their affections for one another, gave him a subtle shake of his head.
Stop looking, it said. She is not yours.
He could feel the sharp sting of acid backing its way up into his throat, and it was close to impossible to swallow it down.
Emilios separated himself from Imma, allowing himself to break his eye contact from Theo to search for anything else to distract him from the moment. He did not need to see them stare fondly at each other. He did not need to see the nervous way his brother seemed to function around his now bride. That should have been him.
He would have pointed out her own apparent nerves, and the two would have spent the remainder of the day in a jest-filled bliss. They would have been contagious laughter, the two unable to really take themselves too seriously when together in the first place. He had never experienced the bonds of duty so firm, suffocating him in their desires for him to do as he had promised to do.
And suddenly, he found himself unable to breath for wholly another reason.
Emilios didn’t care that his father would find him behavior appalling. He didn’t care that he would be judged for his actions. The only thing he cared about was getting out of the room, to find fresh air and to feel anything but the unexpected grief that took hold of him and refused to let go. This day had always seemed like a pipedream, being pushed further and further back that he was sure that it would never come, that he would be able to step in without guilt and make her his.
Plucking a drink off a tray, he found the nearest exit, needing a moment to gather himself before he could plaster a smile on his face and look happy for his brother.
To have it here, and happening, and real, was a nightmare. He felt as if he was drowning in the Styx with no boat to save him. And now, watching the way she looked at his brother, having seen that looked mirrored in his own eyes, made him almost wish for the welcoming embrace of Hades. He knew his betrayal had happened first, knew that he would have to continue to betray his brother.
But he felt as if the insult had first been given to him. Once again, he was lost in the shadow of the perfect son.
If he was asked what happened when they entered the room, he wouldn’t have been able to say for sure. One minute, he was playfully teasing the youngest Leventi about the stains on her fingertips, the next he had forgotten how to breathe.
Emilios couldn’t help his stare, nor could he manage to keep his thoughts on the task at hand. He had promised to Fotios, but moreso to himself, that he would make sure this marriage happened. If Theo didn’t become Achilleas’ wife, the whole Leventi line on Georgios’s side would be ruined. Selene and Pia were gone, with Pia at least already married and ‘safe’, so to speak. And the Lady Selene seemed to all but have the Prince of Colchis on lock down, thought Emilios couldn’t quite understand her desire to marry the cold man.
But Nana and Imma, and even Theodora herself, could easily be destitute if Fotios decided it was their fate. And he had already made a point to let Emilios know that it was wholly up to him on what happened.
Still, his eyes were on Theo as she walked in. He was glad that everyone seemed to be focused on her, so his own gaze wasn’t over analyzed by those around him. And the person who would care-- Achilleas-- wasn’t even looking at him in the first place. She was exquisite in white, her looks putting Aphrodite herself to absolute shame. Hair dark against pale skin, the image of her naked against his bedding with her high contrast ripped at his gut. Today should have been his wedding day to her. He should have been the one marrying her. He felt eyes on him, looking towards the source. Georgios, who knew of their affections for one another, gave him a subtle shake of his head.
Stop looking, it said. She is not yours.
He could feel the sharp sting of acid backing its way up into his throat, and it was close to impossible to swallow it down.
Emilios separated himself from Imma, allowing himself to break his eye contact from Theo to search for anything else to distract him from the moment. He did not need to see them stare fondly at each other. He did not need to see the nervous way his brother seemed to function around his now bride. That should have been him.
He would have pointed out her own apparent nerves, and the two would have spent the remainder of the day in a jest-filled bliss. They would have been contagious laughter, the two unable to really take themselves too seriously when together in the first place. He had never experienced the bonds of duty so firm, suffocating him in their desires for him to do as he had promised to do.
And suddenly, he found himself unable to breath for wholly another reason.
Emilios didn’t care that his father would find him behavior appalling. He didn’t care that he would be judged for his actions. The only thing he cared about was getting out of the room, to find fresh air and to feel anything but the unexpected grief that took hold of him and refused to let go. This day had always seemed like a pipedream, being pushed further and further back that he was sure that it would never come, that he would be able to step in without guilt and make her his.
Plucking a drink off a tray, he found the nearest exit, needing a moment to gather himself before he could plaster a smile on his face and look happy for his brother.
To have it here, and happening, and real, was a nightmare. He felt as if he was drowning in the Styx with no boat to save him. And now, watching the way she looked at his brother, having seen that looked mirrored in his own eyes, made him almost wish for the welcoming embrace of Hades. He knew his betrayal had happened first, knew that he would have to continue to betray his brother.
But he felt as if the insult had first been given to him. Once again, he was lost in the shadow of the perfect son.
As his wife came to stand at his side as was right and proper, Fotios was affectionate with her in a way that was expected at such a joyous occasion. His arm slipped around her back to land upon the hip furthest from him, a casual touch and embrace all in one. When she first stepped up to join the gathering, he pressed a kiss to her temple, careful not to ruin her hair or the careful manner in which she had made up her face.
Whilst the dowries were exchanged and the bride and groom allowed a moment to converse while the refreshments were handed out and the families mingled, Fotios kept his fingers playing over his wife's hip, brushing against her skin through the lavender sheets of silk and chiffon and leaned to murmur in her ear.
"It shall be Agape's turn soon enough, love." He told her, knowing that it was a constant thought in Eirini's mind how and when their three daughters were to be wed and partake in the honour and glory of the Leventi House.
From the corner of his eye, Fotios spotted Emilios leaving the basilica in an effort to seek some air but he kept enough control of his features to ensure that no-one would notice an unbecoming reason for it.
A short while later and the wine had been drunk to the health of the couple and refreshments yielded to hungry lips. It was then that - as perfectly orchestrated by Fotios and his wife - gold encrusted carriages bearing the House of Leventi on one door and the Mikaelidas lion on the opposing side, were drawn into the open courtyard.
With a single clap to draw the attention his way, relinquishing his wife momentarily, Fotios offered up the palms of his hands and then held them towards the marble expanse that swept from the front doors of the estate to the stables beyond. An open space that now contained the four open top carriages led by only the finest Leventi purebreds in pure white.
"My friends and family, for we are now each both, please attend to the carriages and we shall make our journey to the temple. After which we'll be proceeding to the Mikaelidas archontiko where I'm sure King Irakles has secured much in way of entertainment and feasting to celebrate this day." Indicating that he bride and groom were to go first and occupy the first carriage alone, Fotios then linked his arm with Eirini's and managed to negotiate it so that Evelli, Georgios, Nana and Imma occupied the second, whilst Fotios, Eirini, Irakles and Emilios took the third.
As they made their way towards the carriages, Fotios called to Evangelina who drew near to hear Fotios' remarks. As she and Fotios' own children were not immediate relatives of the bride and groom, they were not needed at the Temple.
"Ensure that Princess Xene knows the dowries have been exchanged and that we have only the bathing at the temple before the party arrives at the Mikaelidas estate. You are to aid her however you can in the preparations there." He gestured towards the fourth carriage that Evangelina could take with Agape, Melina and Dafni to Irakles' home.
Once the party were on the road, the drivers of each carriage were forced to separate with enough distance to draw their steeds to a sudden halt if necessary, meaning that each could converse in their own manner without fear of being overheard by the residents of the others.
Instead, they had only to worry of the peerage of the city, who were still out and about on the streets seeking a look at the royal couple and the Houses and King that followed them...
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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As his wife came to stand at his side as was right and proper, Fotios was affectionate with her in a way that was expected at such a joyous occasion. His arm slipped around her back to land upon the hip furthest from him, a casual touch and embrace all in one. When she first stepped up to join the gathering, he pressed a kiss to her temple, careful not to ruin her hair or the careful manner in which she had made up her face.
Whilst the dowries were exchanged and the bride and groom allowed a moment to converse while the refreshments were handed out and the families mingled, Fotios kept his fingers playing over his wife's hip, brushing against her skin through the lavender sheets of silk and chiffon and leaned to murmur in her ear.
"It shall be Agape's turn soon enough, love." He told her, knowing that it was a constant thought in Eirini's mind how and when their three daughters were to be wed and partake in the honour and glory of the Leventi House.
From the corner of his eye, Fotios spotted Emilios leaving the basilica in an effort to seek some air but he kept enough control of his features to ensure that no-one would notice an unbecoming reason for it.
A short while later and the wine had been drunk to the health of the couple and refreshments yielded to hungry lips. It was then that - as perfectly orchestrated by Fotios and his wife - gold encrusted carriages bearing the House of Leventi on one door and the Mikaelidas lion on the opposing side, were drawn into the open courtyard.
With a single clap to draw the attention his way, relinquishing his wife momentarily, Fotios offered up the palms of his hands and then held them towards the marble expanse that swept from the front doors of the estate to the stables beyond. An open space that now contained the four open top carriages led by only the finest Leventi purebreds in pure white.
"My friends and family, for we are now each both, please attend to the carriages and we shall make our journey to the temple. After which we'll be proceeding to the Mikaelidas archontiko where I'm sure King Irakles has secured much in way of entertainment and feasting to celebrate this day." Indicating that he bride and groom were to go first and occupy the first carriage alone, Fotios then linked his arm with Eirini's and managed to negotiate it so that Evelli, Georgios, Nana and Imma occupied the second, whilst Fotios, Eirini, Irakles and Emilios took the third.
As they made their way towards the carriages, Fotios called to Evangelina who drew near to hear Fotios' remarks. As she and Fotios' own children were not immediate relatives of the bride and groom, they were not needed at the Temple.
"Ensure that Princess Xene knows the dowries have been exchanged and that we have only the bathing at the temple before the party arrives at the Mikaelidas estate. You are to aid her however you can in the preparations there." He gestured towards the fourth carriage that Evangelina could take with Agape, Melina and Dafni to Irakles' home.
Once the party were on the road, the drivers of each carriage were forced to separate with enough distance to draw their steeds to a sudden halt if necessary, meaning that each could converse in their own manner without fear of being overheard by the residents of the others.
Instead, they had only to worry of the peerage of the city, who were still out and about on the streets seeking a look at the royal couple and the Houses and King that followed them...
As his wife came to stand at his side as was right and proper, Fotios was affectionate with her in a way that was expected at such a joyous occasion. His arm slipped around her back to land upon the hip furthest from him, a casual touch and embrace all in one. When she first stepped up to join the gathering, he pressed a kiss to her temple, careful not to ruin her hair or the careful manner in which she had made up her face.
Whilst the dowries were exchanged and the bride and groom allowed a moment to converse while the refreshments were handed out and the families mingled, Fotios kept his fingers playing over his wife's hip, brushing against her skin through the lavender sheets of silk and chiffon and leaned to murmur in her ear.
"It shall be Agape's turn soon enough, love." He told her, knowing that it was a constant thought in Eirini's mind how and when their three daughters were to be wed and partake in the honour and glory of the Leventi House.
From the corner of his eye, Fotios spotted Emilios leaving the basilica in an effort to seek some air but he kept enough control of his features to ensure that no-one would notice an unbecoming reason for it.
A short while later and the wine had been drunk to the health of the couple and refreshments yielded to hungry lips. It was then that - as perfectly orchestrated by Fotios and his wife - gold encrusted carriages bearing the House of Leventi on one door and the Mikaelidas lion on the opposing side, were drawn into the open courtyard.
With a single clap to draw the attention his way, relinquishing his wife momentarily, Fotios offered up the palms of his hands and then held them towards the marble expanse that swept from the front doors of the estate to the stables beyond. An open space that now contained the four open top carriages led by only the finest Leventi purebreds in pure white.
"My friends and family, for we are now each both, please attend to the carriages and we shall make our journey to the temple. After which we'll be proceeding to the Mikaelidas archontiko where I'm sure King Irakles has secured much in way of entertainment and feasting to celebrate this day." Indicating that he bride and groom were to go first and occupy the first carriage alone, Fotios then linked his arm with Eirini's and managed to negotiate it so that Evelli, Georgios, Nana and Imma occupied the second, whilst Fotios, Eirini, Irakles and Emilios took the third.
As they made their way towards the carriages, Fotios called to Evangelina who drew near to hear Fotios' remarks. As she and Fotios' own children were not immediate relatives of the bride and groom, they were not needed at the Temple.
"Ensure that Princess Xene knows the dowries have been exchanged and that we have only the bathing at the temple before the party arrives at the Mikaelidas estate. You are to aid her however you can in the preparations there." He gestured towards the fourth carriage that Evangelina could take with Agape, Melina and Dafni to Irakles' home.
Once the party were on the road, the drivers of each carriage were forced to separate with enough distance to draw their steeds to a sudden halt if necessary, meaning that each could converse in their own manner without fear of being overheard by the residents of the others.
Instead, they had only to worry of the peerage of the city, who were still out and about on the streets seeking a look at the royal couple and the Houses and King that followed them...
ARCHONTIKÓ MIKAELIDAS
It was better to ask Fotios what should be done with the additional gifts then it was to let another lamb go running through the ceremony. At his answer, she nodded her head and then stepped back to simply fade into her family. Joining her parents and brother, she leaned in softly toward her brother to whisper to him as the dowry exchange was commencing.
“I’ll see that the Lord Achilleas gets your gift,” Meeting Konstantino’s gaze, she offered a reassuring smile before turning her attention back to the dowry exchange.
Theodora made her appearance looking as radiant and as perfect as was expected. Her cousin did everything beautifully, but being a bride was her best look yet. Perhaps she should have felt a bit of envy, but there was a price for all gifts. Nothing in all of this was free. Letting her eyes slide over the various people gathered.
A hand settled upon her shoulder, glancing up she saw her father glance down at her and give a small wink that she returned with a tender smile. His hand remained there until after the dowry exchange. The weight of it a gentle reminder of how much she missed the simple intimacies of family.
“I should see to the staff and make sure all the additional gifts are sent ahead.” She murmured to her parents and brother, giving her parents a kiss on their cheeks before she disappeared while everyone mingled enjoying the food platters and wine that had been placed out to encourage the feeling of goodwill. Evangelina was glad to be finding things to keep her busy. There was a comfort in carrying on and staying busy. She wasn’t that great with small talk or polite conversation.
Not lingering in the basilica, she motioned over another one of the servants and began organizing the details for the additional gifts. Tino hadn’t been the only one who’d prepared gifts for the new couple, several of the vassal houses of Leventi had sent in their share of gifts, and they all needed to be seen too as well. Whether it was because that Stephanos and Pia had married so quietly or because Taengea needed something joyful to shift their focus too, the blessed beauty Theodora with the handsome general Lord Achilleas had become the social event of the year. They were the toast of the capital. And if it breathed a bit of spirit back into the country, Evangelina was inclined to believe the match was beneficial.
In front of the expansive Leventi manors, Evangelina took a spare moment to check upon the four carriages that had been sent around to carry the Mikaelidas and Leventi parties first to the temples for the bathing ceremonies and then to the Mikaelidas Estate for the festivities to begin. With one of the servants on her heels taking down any notes that needed to be rectified before they’d finished the wine and food.
Going back inside, she paused to reorganize a vase of flowers so that they settled into the vase more attractively. The sounds from the garden carried through and soon the wedding party was coming to a close. Stepping into the garden, she heard Fotios’ single clap to gain the attention.
‘My friends and family, for we are now each both, please attend to the carriages and we shall make our journey to the temple. After which we'll be proceeding to the Mikaelidas archontiko where I'm sure King Irakles has secured much in way of entertainment and feasting to celebrate this day.’
Her parents had agreed to stay a little longer at the Leventi manors and see to the clean-up details before they proceeded to the Mikaelidas later. Evangelina glanced about as everyone began dispersing and making their way to the carriages. Folding her hands softly in front of her, she waited, knowing she’d be riding with Agape and Melina, but unsure if she would be headed to the temple or if she’d be heading straight to the Mikaelidas’.
Hearing her name, her eyes settled upon her uncle. Taking a deep breath, she stepped closer to hear what he wished of her.
‘Ensure that Princess Xene knows the dowries have been exchanged and that we have only the bathing at the temple before the party arrives at the Mikaelidas estate. You are to aid her however you can in the preparations there.’
With a soft nod of her head, she fell momentarily into step with him. Evangelina acknowledged his instructions and filled him in on the other details, “Of course, my lord. I believe my parents are staying behind here to see that the staff get a start upon the cleanup and will join us at the Mikaelidas’ for the festivities. Also, the staff has been instructed to see Tino’s gift and the others that were sent by some of the vassal houses are being sent straight on to Euttica.” As soon as he acknowledged her words, she broke away from him and started towards the fourth carriage that his daughters already were occupying.
Without a glance, she grasped the hand of one of the servants and stepped into the carriage, sitting next to Agape and across from Melina. On the ride towards the Mikaelidas Estate, Evangelina let herself decompress for a few moments. The weeks going up to this wedding had been...almost soul-crushing. Everyone had their demands that weighed upon her plus her own dilemmas that needed sorting out. And boy did she have her own dilemmas. Leaning her head back, she tilted her chin upwards toward the sun and closed her eyes. It was almost over. After today, maybe she’d find some more normalcy in her life again.
The ride to Mikaelidas wasn’t that long, soon enough they were being deposited where the festivities were to be held. Letting her sharp gaze sort through things, Fotios’ daughters found ways to occupy themselves but she asked to be directed to the Princess Xene.
The suggestive lavender silk and lace she wore was surprisingly holding up much better than she’d expected. No doubt because her movement was rather limited. Her rich chestnut hair was still loosely pinned upwards in an elegant mass of chaos. Upwards ahead, she saw Princess Xene and offered an almost tired smile to her as she approached. Glancing at the man next to her, she raised an eyebrow and a small smile to acknowledge him. Was that the bard from the party for the Egyptians? Shifting a gaze back to Xene, she offered a curtsy. “Your highness. My uncle sent me and his daughters ahead in case you needed any additional help with preparations here. They’ll be arriving shortly, the dowries have been exchanged and they are headed to the temple for the bathing ceremony.”
Letting her gaze drift around her surroundings again, she smiled, “It looks like everything is pretty much in order, but is there anything that we can be of aid doing? We are entirely at your service.”
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ARCHONTIKÓ MIKAELIDAS
It was better to ask Fotios what should be done with the additional gifts then it was to let another lamb go running through the ceremony. At his answer, she nodded her head and then stepped back to simply fade into her family. Joining her parents and brother, she leaned in softly toward her brother to whisper to him as the dowry exchange was commencing.
“I’ll see that the Lord Achilleas gets your gift,” Meeting Konstantino’s gaze, she offered a reassuring smile before turning her attention back to the dowry exchange.
Theodora made her appearance looking as radiant and as perfect as was expected. Her cousin did everything beautifully, but being a bride was her best look yet. Perhaps she should have felt a bit of envy, but there was a price for all gifts. Nothing in all of this was free. Letting her eyes slide over the various people gathered.
A hand settled upon her shoulder, glancing up she saw her father glance down at her and give a small wink that she returned with a tender smile. His hand remained there until after the dowry exchange. The weight of it a gentle reminder of how much she missed the simple intimacies of family.
“I should see to the staff and make sure all the additional gifts are sent ahead.” She murmured to her parents and brother, giving her parents a kiss on their cheeks before she disappeared while everyone mingled enjoying the food platters and wine that had been placed out to encourage the feeling of goodwill. Evangelina was glad to be finding things to keep her busy. There was a comfort in carrying on and staying busy. She wasn’t that great with small talk or polite conversation.
Not lingering in the basilica, she motioned over another one of the servants and began organizing the details for the additional gifts. Tino hadn’t been the only one who’d prepared gifts for the new couple, several of the vassal houses of Leventi had sent in their share of gifts, and they all needed to be seen too as well. Whether it was because that Stephanos and Pia had married so quietly or because Taengea needed something joyful to shift their focus too, the blessed beauty Theodora with the handsome general Lord Achilleas had become the social event of the year. They were the toast of the capital. And if it breathed a bit of spirit back into the country, Evangelina was inclined to believe the match was beneficial.
In front of the expansive Leventi manors, Evangelina took a spare moment to check upon the four carriages that had been sent around to carry the Mikaelidas and Leventi parties first to the temples for the bathing ceremonies and then to the Mikaelidas Estate for the festivities to begin. With one of the servants on her heels taking down any notes that needed to be rectified before they’d finished the wine and food.
Going back inside, she paused to reorganize a vase of flowers so that they settled into the vase more attractively. The sounds from the garden carried through and soon the wedding party was coming to a close. Stepping into the garden, she heard Fotios’ single clap to gain the attention.
‘My friends and family, for we are now each both, please attend to the carriages and we shall make our journey to the temple. After which we'll be proceeding to the Mikaelidas archontiko where I'm sure King Irakles has secured much in way of entertainment and feasting to celebrate this day.’
Her parents had agreed to stay a little longer at the Leventi manors and see to the clean-up details before they proceeded to the Mikaelidas later. Evangelina glanced about as everyone began dispersing and making their way to the carriages. Folding her hands softly in front of her, she waited, knowing she’d be riding with Agape and Melina, but unsure if she would be headed to the temple or if she’d be heading straight to the Mikaelidas’.
Hearing her name, her eyes settled upon her uncle. Taking a deep breath, she stepped closer to hear what he wished of her.
‘Ensure that Princess Xene knows the dowries have been exchanged and that we have only the bathing at the temple before the party arrives at the Mikaelidas estate. You are to aid her however you can in the preparations there.’
With a soft nod of her head, she fell momentarily into step with him. Evangelina acknowledged his instructions and filled him in on the other details, “Of course, my lord. I believe my parents are staying behind here to see that the staff get a start upon the cleanup and will join us at the Mikaelidas’ for the festivities. Also, the staff has been instructed to see Tino’s gift and the others that were sent by some of the vassal houses are being sent straight on to Euttica.” As soon as he acknowledged her words, she broke away from him and started towards the fourth carriage that his daughters already were occupying.
Without a glance, she grasped the hand of one of the servants and stepped into the carriage, sitting next to Agape and across from Melina. On the ride towards the Mikaelidas Estate, Evangelina let herself decompress for a few moments. The weeks going up to this wedding had been...almost soul-crushing. Everyone had their demands that weighed upon her plus her own dilemmas that needed sorting out. And boy did she have her own dilemmas. Leaning her head back, she tilted her chin upwards toward the sun and closed her eyes. It was almost over. After today, maybe she’d find some more normalcy in her life again.
The ride to Mikaelidas wasn’t that long, soon enough they were being deposited where the festivities were to be held. Letting her sharp gaze sort through things, Fotios’ daughters found ways to occupy themselves but she asked to be directed to the Princess Xene.
The suggestive lavender silk and lace she wore was surprisingly holding up much better than she’d expected. No doubt because her movement was rather limited. Her rich chestnut hair was still loosely pinned upwards in an elegant mass of chaos. Upwards ahead, she saw Princess Xene and offered an almost tired smile to her as she approached. Glancing at the man next to her, she raised an eyebrow and a small smile to acknowledge him. Was that the bard from the party for the Egyptians? Shifting a gaze back to Xene, she offered a curtsy. “Your highness. My uncle sent me and his daughters ahead in case you needed any additional help with preparations here. They’ll be arriving shortly, the dowries have been exchanged and they are headed to the temple for the bathing ceremony.”
Letting her gaze drift around her surroundings again, she smiled, “It looks like everything is pretty much in order, but is there anything that we can be of aid doing? We are entirely at your service.”
ARCHONTIKÓ MIKAELIDAS
It was better to ask Fotios what should be done with the additional gifts then it was to let another lamb go running through the ceremony. At his answer, she nodded her head and then stepped back to simply fade into her family. Joining her parents and brother, she leaned in softly toward her brother to whisper to him as the dowry exchange was commencing.
“I’ll see that the Lord Achilleas gets your gift,” Meeting Konstantino’s gaze, she offered a reassuring smile before turning her attention back to the dowry exchange.
Theodora made her appearance looking as radiant and as perfect as was expected. Her cousin did everything beautifully, but being a bride was her best look yet. Perhaps she should have felt a bit of envy, but there was a price for all gifts. Nothing in all of this was free. Letting her eyes slide over the various people gathered.
A hand settled upon her shoulder, glancing up she saw her father glance down at her and give a small wink that she returned with a tender smile. His hand remained there until after the dowry exchange. The weight of it a gentle reminder of how much she missed the simple intimacies of family.
“I should see to the staff and make sure all the additional gifts are sent ahead.” She murmured to her parents and brother, giving her parents a kiss on their cheeks before she disappeared while everyone mingled enjoying the food platters and wine that had been placed out to encourage the feeling of goodwill. Evangelina was glad to be finding things to keep her busy. There was a comfort in carrying on and staying busy. She wasn’t that great with small talk or polite conversation.
Not lingering in the basilica, she motioned over another one of the servants and began organizing the details for the additional gifts. Tino hadn’t been the only one who’d prepared gifts for the new couple, several of the vassal houses of Leventi had sent in their share of gifts, and they all needed to be seen too as well. Whether it was because that Stephanos and Pia had married so quietly or because Taengea needed something joyful to shift their focus too, the blessed beauty Theodora with the handsome general Lord Achilleas had become the social event of the year. They were the toast of the capital. And if it breathed a bit of spirit back into the country, Evangelina was inclined to believe the match was beneficial.
In front of the expansive Leventi manors, Evangelina took a spare moment to check upon the four carriages that had been sent around to carry the Mikaelidas and Leventi parties first to the temples for the bathing ceremonies and then to the Mikaelidas Estate for the festivities to begin. With one of the servants on her heels taking down any notes that needed to be rectified before they’d finished the wine and food.
Going back inside, she paused to reorganize a vase of flowers so that they settled into the vase more attractively. The sounds from the garden carried through and soon the wedding party was coming to a close. Stepping into the garden, she heard Fotios’ single clap to gain the attention.
‘My friends and family, for we are now each both, please attend to the carriages and we shall make our journey to the temple. After which we'll be proceeding to the Mikaelidas archontiko where I'm sure King Irakles has secured much in way of entertainment and feasting to celebrate this day.’
Her parents had agreed to stay a little longer at the Leventi manors and see to the clean-up details before they proceeded to the Mikaelidas later. Evangelina glanced about as everyone began dispersing and making their way to the carriages. Folding her hands softly in front of her, she waited, knowing she’d be riding with Agape and Melina, but unsure if she would be headed to the temple or if she’d be heading straight to the Mikaelidas’.
Hearing her name, her eyes settled upon her uncle. Taking a deep breath, she stepped closer to hear what he wished of her.
‘Ensure that Princess Xene knows the dowries have been exchanged and that we have only the bathing at the temple before the party arrives at the Mikaelidas estate. You are to aid her however you can in the preparations there.’
With a soft nod of her head, she fell momentarily into step with him. Evangelina acknowledged his instructions and filled him in on the other details, “Of course, my lord. I believe my parents are staying behind here to see that the staff get a start upon the cleanup and will join us at the Mikaelidas’ for the festivities. Also, the staff has been instructed to see Tino’s gift and the others that were sent by some of the vassal houses are being sent straight on to Euttica.” As soon as he acknowledged her words, she broke away from him and started towards the fourth carriage that his daughters already were occupying.
Without a glance, she grasped the hand of one of the servants and stepped into the carriage, sitting next to Agape and across from Melina. On the ride towards the Mikaelidas Estate, Evangelina let herself decompress for a few moments. The weeks going up to this wedding had been...almost soul-crushing. Everyone had their demands that weighed upon her plus her own dilemmas that needed sorting out. And boy did she have her own dilemmas. Leaning her head back, she tilted her chin upwards toward the sun and closed her eyes. It was almost over. After today, maybe she’d find some more normalcy in her life again.
The ride to Mikaelidas wasn’t that long, soon enough they were being deposited where the festivities were to be held. Letting her sharp gaze sort through things, Fotios’ daughters found ways to occupy themselves but she asked to be directed to the Princess Xene.
The suggestive lavender silk and lace she wore was surprisingly holding up much better than she’d expected. No doubt because her movement was rather limited. Her rich chestnut hair was still loosely pinned upwards in an elegant mass of chaos. Upwards ahead, she saw Princess Xene and offered an almost tired smile to her as she approached. Glancing at the man next to her, she raised an eyebrow and a small smile to acknowledge him. Was that the bard from the party for the Egyptians? Shifting a gaze back to Xene, she offered a curtsy. “Your highness. My uncle sent me and his daughters ahead in case you needed any additional help with preparations here. They’ll be arriving shortly, the dowries have been exchanged and they are headed to the temple for the bathing ceremony.”
Letting her gaze drift around her surroundings again, she smiled, “It looks like everything is pretty much in order, but is there anything that we can be of aid doing? We are entirely at your service.”
To the Temple
If he could have wished away their audience, he would’ve. He wanted to drink her in and memorise every inch of her perfection, but instead they were surrounded by the dull chatter of their families, the clink of toasts being made to this long awaited joining of their Houses. Was it any wonder he felt a little self-conscious? That he had not hidden it well became apparent as Theo gently teased him for what was admittedly a rather stilted question, and he half shrugged, shook his head. “It has been such a long time coming this day. I think I am maybe in shock that it has arrived.” And then because he did not want her to think it anything other than what were surely normal nerves, he added “ I am glad though, wife.” The smile that accompanied it was warm,said so much more than the comparative reserve of his words.
He found himself with little appetite, but did accept a cup of wine from one of the passing servers, thinking it would dull the keen edge of his nerves. He frowned a little to see Emilios wandering away from the gathering, but it was just a moment before someone was speaking his name and he turned away, thought nothing more of his sullen faced brother.
Then it was making small talk with those around them until the Lord Fotios clapped his hands and signalled that they were to move on to the Temple, where what had been agreed in law would be witnessed by the Gods. Achilleas, having not let go of Theo’s hand since he had taken it during the exchange of the dowry, tucked it over his arm and walked with her towards the gilded carriages that awaited them. “ Better than a litter at least” he murmured softly for her ears only, for she knew that had been a gripe of his during the temple tour all those months ago. And when he had helped her up into the carriage and the door had closed behind them, Achilleas pressed himself back into the seat and breathed a sigh. He turned his head toward her and let his gaze make a slow sweep from the garnet studded diadem down the length of her and all the way back up again, indulging himself as he had not dared when they were with company. There was a sense of privacy at least, without the presence of their respective families - no, their shared families now - around them.
“It seems as though I have barely seen you” he remarked quietly, tangling his fingers with hers again. And indeed it did feel as though the lead up to this day had seen them with little more than minutes together, and carefully chaperoned minutes at that. He was torn between wanting to tell her everything he had not been able to before, and just keeping quiet, not letting the truths of the situation intrude upon this day any further than they already had.
He settled on the latter. They would have time where he could talk to her of real things. But not now.
The carriage soon rolled into motion, and as it did, Achilleas drew Theo to him, half-afraid to put his hands anywhere lest he disturb her perfection, but not content just to look upon her any longer. His lips found hers with an undisguised eagerness, and in that connection, he forgot at least some of the things that had weighted his mind. It was easy to lose himself in Theo, a fact that had given him pause on other occasions, but today he relished it, this culmination of so long spent waiting.
But much as he felt at home in the sweetness of her kiss, Achilleas remembered himself and drew back, only grinning slightly at the euphoria of it. Of her.
“I think we have probably given them enough of a show” he said, clearing his throat and raising a hand to wave at those that they passed by. Usually, he might have been concerned by propriety and the like, but she was his wife, and Achilleas would not apologise for kissing his wife soundly on their wedding day.
Turning the full force of his smile upon Theodora, he thought that despite everything else that seemed to be splintering around them, in this at least, he was blessed.
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To the Temple
If he could have wished away their audience, he would’ve. He wanted to drink her in and memorise every inch of her perfection, but instead they were surrounded by the dull chatter of their families, the clink of toasts being made to this long awaited joining of their Houses. Was it any wonder he felt a little self-conscious? That he had not hidden it well became apparent as Theo gently teased him for what was admittedly a rather stilted question, and he half shrugged, shook his head. “It has been such a long time coming this day. I think I am maybe in shock that it has arrived.” And then because he did not want her to think it anything other than what were surely normal nerves, he added “ I am glad though, wife.” The smile that accompanied it was warm,said so much more than the comparative reserve of his words.
He found himself with little appetite, but did accept a cup of wine from one of the passing servers, thinking it would dull the keen edge of his nerves. He frowned a little to see Emilios wandering away from the gathering, but it was just a moment before someone was speaking his name and he turned away, thought nothing more of his sullen faced brother.
Then it was making small talk with those around them until the Lord Fotios clapped his hands and signalled that they were to move on to the Temple, where what had been agreed in law would be witnessed by the Gods. Achilleas, having not let go of Theo’s hand since he had taken it during the exchange of the dowry, tucked it over his arm and walked with her towards the gilded carriages that awaited them. “ Better than a litter at least” he murmured softly for her ears only, for she knew that had been a gripe of his during the temple tour all those months ago. And when he had helped her up into the carriage and the door had closed behind them, Achilleas pressed himself back into the seat and breathed a sigh. He turned his head toward her and let his gaze make a slow sweep from the garnet studded diadem down the length of her and all the way back up again, indulging himself as he had not dared when they were with company. There was a sense of privacy at least, without the presence of their respective families - no, their shared families now - around them.
“It seems as though I have barely seen you” he remarked quietly, tangling his fingers with hers again. And indeed it did feel as though the lead up to this day had seen them with little more than minutes together, and carefully chaperoned minutes at that. He was torn between wanting to tell her everything he had not been able to before, and just keeping quiet, not letting the truths of the situation intrude upon this day any further than they already had.
He settled on the latter. They would have time where he could talk to her of real things. But not now.
The carriage soon rolled into motion, and as it did, Achilleas drew Theo to him, half-afraid to put his hands anywhere lest he disturb her perfection, but not content just to look upon her any longer. His lips found hers with an undisguised eagerness, and in that connection, he forgot at least some of the things that had weighted his mind. It was easy to lose himself in Theo, a fact that had given him pause on other occasions, but today he relished it, this culmination of so long spent waiting.
But much as he felt at home in the sweetness of her kiss, Achilleas remembered himself and drew back, only grinning slightly at the euphoria of it. Of her.
“I think we have probably given them enough of a show” he said, clearing his throat and raising a hand to wave at those that they passed by. Usually, he might have been concerned by propriety and the like, but she was his wife, and Achilleas would not apologise for kissing his wife soundly on their wedding day.
Turning the full force of his smile upon Theodora, he thought that despite everything else that seemed to be splintering around them, in this at least, he was blessed.
To the Temple
If he could have wished away their audience, he would’ve. He wanted to drink her in and memorise every inch of her perfection, but instead they were surrounded by the dull chatter of their families, the clink of toasts being made to this long awaited joining of their Houses. Was it any wonder he felt a little self-conscious? That he had not hidden it well became apparent as Theo gently teased him for what was admittedly a rather stilted question, and he half shrugged, shook his head. “It has been such a long time coming this day. I think I am maybe in shock that it has arrived.” And then because he did not want her to think it anything other than what were surely normal nerves, he added “ I am glad though, wife.” The smile that accompanied it was warm,said so much more than the comparative reserve of his words.
He found himself with little appetite, but did accept a cup of wine from one of the passing servers, thinking it would dull the keen edge of his nerves. He frowned a little to see Emilios wandering away from the gathering, but it was just a moment before someone was speaking his name and he turned away, thought nothing more of his sullen faced brother.
Then it was making small talk with those around them until the Lord Fotios clapped his hands and signalled that they were to move on to the Temple, where what had been agreed in law would be witnessed by the Gods. Achilleas, having not let go of Theo’s hand since he had taken it during the exchange of the dowry, tucked it over his arm and walked with her towards the gilded carriages that awaited them. “ Better than a litter at least” he murmured softly for her ears only, for she knew that had been a gripe of his during the temple tour all those months ago. And when he had helped her up into the carriage and the door had closed behind them, Achilleas pressed himself back into the seat and breathed a sigh. He turned his head toward her and let his gaze make a slow sweep from the garnet studded diadem down the length of her and all the way back up again, indulging himself as he had not dared when they were with company. There was a sense of privacy at least, without the presence of their respective families - no, their shared families now - around them.
“It seems as though I have barely seen you” he remarked quietly, tangling his fingers with hers again. And indeed it did feel as though the lead up to this day had seen them with little more than minutes together, and carefully chaperoned minutes at that. He was torn between wanting to tell her everything he had not been able to before, and just keeping quiet, not letting the truths of the situation intrude upon this day any further than they already had.
He settled on the latter. They would have time where he could talk to her of real things. But not now.
The carriage soon rolled into motion, and as it did, Achilleas drew Theo to him, half-afraid to put his hands anywhere lest he disturb her perfection, but not content just to look upon her any longer. His lips found hers with an undisguised eagerness, and in that connection, he forgot at least some of the things that had weighted his mind. It was easy to lose himself in Theo, a fact that had given him pause on other occasions, but today he relished it, this culmination of so long spent waiting.
But much as he felt at home in the sweetness of her kiss, Achilleas remembered himself and drew back, only grinning slightly at the euphoria of it. Of her.
“I think we have probably given them enough of a show” he said, clearing his throat and raising a hand to wave at those that they passed by. Usually, he might have been concerned by propriety and the like, but she was his wife, and Achilleas would not apologise for kissing his wife soundly on their wedding day.
Turning the full force of his smile upon Theodora, he thought that despite everything else that seemed to be splintering around them, in this at least, he was blessed.
Theodora smiled in understanding her new husband's description of the day. The soft curve of her chin dipped in a nod of agreement before she looked back up at him. She felt the familiar angle of her neck - for he was so much taller than her, she was becoming used to having to look upwards if she was to partake in a conversation in which their gazes met - and the softness of several of her black curls falling back over her shoulder.
"Indeed." She stated simply to begin with before licking her lips and continuing. "It feels very dreamlike..." The bridge of her nose wrinkled in amusement at her next words. "Perhaps it shall feel real in... say, a year or two?"
Their conversation was cut off as more servants pandered to them with trays of delicacies and fine wine and they were each congratulated by different members of the family. Throughout it all, despite them often having two different conversations with complimentary relatives, Achilleas maintained a hold on Theo's hand. As if he feared the loosening of his touch would result in her disappearance. She knew the feeling. This day had been so long coming and the activity around them so bustling that it felt nice to have a connection to him as solid as the joining of their fingers. An anchor in the happy storm of activity that was their wedding.
It was only as her attentions were being drawn to first her mother, then her father and then her present sisters that Theo spotted a retreating back over Imma's low shoulder.
Her expression froze ever so slightly, her upbringing ensuring that she did not lose the look of happiness that quickly became a mask or offer hints to the others present of her inner thoughts. But the sight of Emilios' departure from the basilica - as if he could not bear to stand within it any longer - had a flare of sadness tinged with anger sparking in her belly.
You turned your back on us... She could not help but think, her thoughts aimed at the spot between his shoulder blades. Don't now act as the injured party...
Swallowing, Theo turned away from the site and redressed the balance in her emotions by noticing the way her new husband smiled with such joy.
When her uncle clapped his hands to signal the end of the first third of the day, Theodora felt herself exhale. Traditional Greek weddings were a marathon, not a sprint, and whilst she was, in her own way, happy of the day, there was also a sense of nervous completion at each step of the day.
As her arm was succinctly settled in with Achilleas', Theo smiled back at him, glad to feel that the expression was real once more and headed down the steps of the basilica, through the flowering flora of the Leventi gardens and towards the four elegantly crafted carriages, painted specifically for the day.
Having been kept in the dark as to most of the wedding preparations - her mother handling everything of importance - Theodora felt herself constantly in surprise at the efforts and details seen to even with everything else that had befallen each of their families.
Looking around and finding her mother's face in the crowd, she sent Evelli a look of such warm appreciation and love that she felt moisture reach her eyes.
Swallowing it down, however, Theo took hold of her new husband's offered hand, in order to step up into the vehicle, and then settled into the open cart beside him. Her fingers were instantly claimed by his once more as everyone else found their own places and the driver clicked the steeds into movement.
Their carriage was the first in the parade so it was easy to forget those behind, even when they had full view of the married couple, and a sense of faux privacy seemed to fall upon them.
When Achilleas trailed his gaze from the top of her head to her feet and back again, Theo blushed at the attentions. It was hard not to feel giddy with self-confidence and light with appreciation when someone was so openly adoring you. Thoughts of darker moments, of other men, of all the impediments they had each gone through to get to this day, paled into the back of your mind when a man just unified with you could look at you as if you were a goddess on earth.
'It seems as though I have barely seen you.'
Theo smiled at the contradiction of his words immediately following his look so intense and all-encompassing she couldn't think who else had 'seen' her so completely.
"Perhaps, that has been a blessing in disguise." She offered him with a sidelong look. "When alone we either seem to be a little too familiar-" She felt herself blush at the memory of their intimacy. "-or I have an unfortunate habit of being inappropriate all by myself." She said with light humour over her previous meetings with him regarding her sister. Her glance of awkward contrition and the squeeze she offered his hand made it clear that the words were an apology. An offer of a clean slate.
It was then that he surprised her with a kiss that had her eyes fly wide and then her lashes lower at the gentle sweetness of the touch. There was something so very warming about a man of Achilleas' size and strength and power, kissing her with such sweet gentility and delicate adoration. Despite all else surrounding this day, it made Theo long for a little more. To be lost in his touch that banished all other distractions.
When he parted from her, her lips trembled and curled into a smile.
"Definitely a blessing in disguise." She commented with a breathlessness that had a sparkle of humour lighting her eyes. She reached up to brush her fingertips along his wide and handsome jawline.
'I think we have probably given them enough of a show.'
She was pleased to note that his voice was as husky as her own before he cleared his throat.
She allowed her lower lip to pout a little, her gaze warm.
"Oh, really?" She commented with a childish lilt of disappointment.
As he turned to wave at the crowds, Theo did the same from her side of the carriage, performing her role for her family (now families) legacy and royal status. When she felt him turn back towards her, his shifts of movement transferring through their joined hands like a psychic message, she turned back to face him with a smile of her own. This time, it was her gaze that trailed down him.
"I had no chance to say so before..." She apologised for the lateness of her compliments. "But you are most handsome, Achilleas. I fear I will become the resented envy of every woman in Taengea this day."
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Theodora smiled in understanding her new husband's description of the day. The soft curve of her chin dipped in a nod of agreement before she looked back up at him. She felt the familiar angle of her neck - for he was so much taller than her, she was becoming used to having to look upwards if she was to partake in a conversation in which their gazes met - and the softness of several of her black curls falling back over her shoulder.
"Indeed." She stated simply to begin with before licking her lips and continuing. "It feels very dreamlike..." The bridge of her nose wrinkled in amusement at her next words. "Perhaps it shall feel real in... say, a year or two?"
Their conversation was cut off as more servants pandered to them with trays of delicacies and fine wine and they were each congratulated by different members of the family. Throughout it all, despite them often having two different conversations with complimentary relatives, Achilleas maintained a hold on Theo's hand. As if he feared the loosening of his touch would result in her disappearance. She knew the feeling. This day had been so long coming and the activity around them so bustling that it felt nice to have a connection to him as solid as the joining of their fingers. An anchor in the happy storm of activity that was their wedding.
It was only as her attentions were being drawn to first her mother, then her father and then her present sisters that Theo spotted a retreating back over Imma's low shoulder.
Her expression froze ever so slightly, her upbringing ensuring that she did not lose the look of happiness that quickly became a mask or offer hints to the others present of her inner thoughts. But the sight of Emilios' departure from the basilica - as if he could not bear to stand within it any longer - had a flare of sadness tinged with anger sparking in her belly.
You turned your back on us... She could not help but think, her thoughts aimed at the spot between his shoulder blades. Don't now act as the injured party...
Swallowing, Theo turned away from the site and redressed the balance in her emotions by noticing the way her new husband smiled with such joy.
When her uncle clapped his hands to signal the end of the first third of the day, Theodora felt herself exhale. Traditional Greek weddings were a marathon, not a sprint, and whilst she was, in her own way, happy of the day, there was also a sense of nervous completion at each step of the day.
As her arm was succinctly settled in with Achilleas', Theo smiled back at him, glad to feel that the expression was real once more and headed down the steps of the basilica, through the flowering flora of the Leventi gardens and towards the four elegantly crafted carriages, painted specifically for the day.
Having been kept in the dark as to most of the wedding preparations - her mother handling everything of importance - Theodora felt herself constantly in surprise at the efforts and details seen to even with everything else that had befallen each of their families.
Looking around and finding her mother's face in the crowd, she sent Evelli a look of such warm appreciation and love that she felt moisture reach her eyes.
Swallowing it down, however, Theo took hold of her new husband's offered hand, in order to step up into the vehicle, and then settled into the open cart beside him. Her fingers were instantly claimed by his once more as everyone else found their own places and the driver clicked the steeds into movement.
Their carriage was the first in the parade so it was easy to forget those behind, even when they had full view of the married couple, and a sense of faux privacy seemed to fall upon them.
When Achilleas trailed his gaze from the top of her head to her feet and back again, Theo blushed at the attentions. It was hard not to feel giddy with self-confidence and light with appreciation when someone was so openly adoring you. Thoughts of darker moments, of other men, of all the impediments they had each gone through to get to this day, paled into the back of your mind when a man just unified with you could look at you as if you were a goddess on earth.
'It seems as though I have barely seen you.'
Theo smiled at the contradiction of his words immediately following his look so intense and all-encompassing she couldn't think who else had 'seen' her so completely.
"Perhaps, that has been a blessing in disguise." She offered him with a sidelong look. "When alone we either seem to be a little too familiar-" She felt herself blush at the memory of their intimacy. "-or I have an unfortunate habit of being inappropriate all by myself." She said with light humour over her previous meetings with him regarding her sister. Her glance of awkward contrition and the squeeze she offered his hand made it clear that the words were an apology. An offer of a clean slate.
It was then that he surprised her with a kiss that had her eyes fly wide and then her lashes lower at the gentle sweetness of the touch. There was something so very warming about a man of Achilleas' size and strength and power, kissing her with such sweet gentility and delicate adoration. Despite all else surrounding this day, it made Theo long for a little more. To be lost in his touch that banished all other distractions.
When he parted from her, her lips trembled and curled into a smile.
"Definitely a blessing in disguise." She commented with a breathlessness that had a sparkle of humour lighting her eyes. She reached up to brush her fingertips along his wide and handsome jawline.
'I think we have probably given them enough of a show.'
She was pleased to note that his voice was as husky as her own before he cleared his throat.
She allowed her lower lip to pout a little, her gaze warm.
"Oh, really?" She commented with a childish lilt of disappointment.
As he turned to wave at the crowds, Theo did the same from her side of the carriage, performing her role for her family (now families) legacy and royal status. When she felt him turn back towards her, his shifts of movement transferring through their joined hands like a psychic message, she turned back to face him with a smile of her own. This time, it was her gaze that trailed down him.
"I had no chance to say so before..." She apologised for the lateness of her compliments. "But you are most handsome, Achilleas. I fear I will become the resented envy of every woman in Taengea this day."
Theodora smiled in understanding her new husband's description of the day. The soft curve of her chin dipped in a nod of agreement before she looked back up at him. She felt the familiar angle of her neck - for he was so much taller than her, she was becoming used to having to look upwards if she was to partake in a conversation in which their gazes met - and the softness of several of her black curls falling back over her shoulder.
"Indeed." She stated simply to begin with before licking her lips and continuing. "It feels very dreamlike..." The bridge of her nose wrinkled in amusement at her next words. "Perhaps it shall feel real in... say, a year or two?"
Their conversation was cut off as more servants pandered to them with trays of delicacies and fine wine and they were each congratulated by different members of the family. Throughout it all, despite them often having two different conversations with complimentary relatives, Achilleas maintained a hold on Theo's hand. As if he feared the loosening of his touch would result in her disappearance. She knew the feeling. This day had been so long coming and the activity around them so bustling that it felt nice to have a connection to him as solid as the joining of their fingers. An anchor in the happy storm of activity that was their wedding.
It was only as her attentions were being drawn to first her mother, then her father and then her present sisters that Theo spotted a retreating back over Imma's low shoulder.
Her expression froze ever so slightly, her upbringing ensuring that she did not lose the look of happiness that quickly became a mask or offer hints to the others present of her inner thoughts. But the sight of Emilios' departure from the basilica - as if he could not bear to stand within it any longer - had a flare of sadness tinged with anger sparking in her belly.
You turned your back on us... She could not help but think, her thoughts aimed at the spot between his shoulder blades. Don't now act as the injured party...
Swallowing, Theo turned away from the site and redressed the balance in her emotions by noticing the way her new husband smiled with such joy.
When her uncle clapped his hands to signal the end of the first third of the day, Theodora felt herself exhale. Traditional Greek weddings were a marathon, not a sprint, and whilst she was, in her own way, happy of the day, there was also a sense of nervous completion at each step of the day.
As her arm was succinctly settled in with Achilleas', Theo smiled back at him, glad to feel that the expression was real once more and headed down the steps of the basilica, through the flowering flora of the Leventi gardens and towards the four elegantly crafted carriages, painted specifically for the day.
Having been kept in the dark as to most of the wedding preparations - her mother handling everything of importance - Theodora felt herself constantly in surprise at the efforts and details seen to even with everything else that had befallen each of their families.
Looking around and finding her mother's face in the crowd, she sent Evelli a look of such warm appreciation and love that she felt moisture reach her eyes.
Swallowing it down, however, Theo took hold of her new husband's offered hand, in order to step up into the vehicle, and then settled into the open cart beside him. Her fingers were instantly claimed by his once more as everyone else found their own places and the driver clicked the steeds into movement.
Their carriage was the first in the parade so it was easy to forget those behind, even when they had full view of the married couple, and a sense of faux privacy seemed to fall upon them.
When Achilleas trailed his gaze from the top of her head to her feet and back again, Theo blushed at the attentions. It was hard not to feel giddy with self-confidence and light with appreciation when someone was so openly adoring you. Thoughts of darker moments, of other men, of all the impediments they had each gone through to get to this day, paled into the back of your mind when a man just unified with you could look at you as if you were a goddess on earth.
'It seems as though I have barely seen you.'
Theo smiled at the contradiction of his words immediately following his look so intense and all-encompassing she couldn't think who else had 'seen' her so completely.
"Perhaps, that has been a blessing in disguise." She offered him with a sidelong look. "When alone we either seem to be a little too familiar-" She felt herself blush at the memory of their intimacy. "-or I have an unfortunate habit of being inappropriate all by myself." She said with light humour over her previous meetings with him regarding her sister. Her glance of awkward contrition and the squeeze she offered his hand made it clear that the words were an apology. An offer of a clean slate.
It was then that he surprised her with a kiss that had her eyes fly wide and then her lashes lower at the gentle sweetness of the touch. There was something so very warming about a man of Achilleas' size and strength and power, kissing her with such sweet gentility and delicate adoration. Despite all else surrounding this day, it made Theo long for a little more. To be lost in his touch that banished all other distractions.
When he parted from her, her lips trembled and curled into a smile.
"Definitely a blessing in disguise." She commented with a breathlessness that had a sparkle of humour lighting her eyes. She reached up to brush her fingertips along his wide and handsome jawline.
'I think we have probably given them enough of a show.'
She was pleased to note that his voice was as husky as her own before he cleared his throat.
She allowed her lower lip to pout a little, her gaze warm.
"Oh, really?" She commented with a childish lilt of disappointment.
As he turned to wave at the crowds, Theo did the same from her side of the carriage, performing her role for her family (now families) legacy and royal status. When she felt him turn back towards her, his shifts of movement transferring through their joined hands like a psychic message, she turned back to face him with a smile of her own. This time, it was her gaze that trailed down him.
"I had no chance to say so before..." She apologised for the lateness of her compliments. "But you are most handsome, Achilleas. I fear I will become the resented envy of every woman in Taengea this day."
He could see it - it was obvious Achilleas was besotted with Theodora, and from his vantage point, he could clearly see why. Theodora was a beautiful bride who would make a splendid wife. Lady Evelli and Lord Georgios had done well in raising all of their daughters, for all of them were considered gems of the Taengean nobility, and for his son to have one of them as a bride was a blessing from the Gods. Of course, that the wedding now joined two of the largest Taengean families together was the main reason, but at least on his end, Irakles need not fear the heir to his House would be a bastard born. So long as an heir and a spare was born of the appropriate manner, Irakles could not care if Achilleas sought to slake his desires elsewhere at a later date.
Nodding in approval when he saw Evelli smile fondly at Achilleas as she handed her daughter over to her new husband to be, before stepping back to her own husband. Theodora now rightfully was a Mikaelidas upon the conclusion of the day, and none of her matters should disturb her birth house any longer. Of course, if Irakles knew Georgios well, he doubted the man would let any of his daughter's go, attached as he was to all his offsprings.
Allowing his gaze to wander for a moment, the man's brows wrinkled when he suddenly realized his second son was nowhere to be seen. Knowing the implications of what may happen should someone notice Emilios's dissapearance, Irakles was thankful that Fotios chose this moment to speak and address all that was present, and in turn, Irakles stood next to the man with a jovial smile, putting on a picture for all to see that he was as eager as everyone else to see the wedding. Nodding to affirm that he had indeed prepared a grand feast to celebrate the wedding of his first son, the man waited as per custom for Achilleas and Theodora to head first, before he followed behind.
Taking a carriage which was soon filled by Fotios, Eirini, Irakles and Emilios (of which he hoped knew well enough to come back once he noticed the rest of the entourage was now moving), Irakles paused to ensure Myrto would come with him, and managed to watch the Lady Evelli enter with her husband and daughters, before they too did the same. In truth, this was probably the first time in many he had shared such an enclosed space for such a prolonged time with his estranged wife, but he was lucky in that Myrto was a woman who was well trained to her station in life, and today, all she had to do was to be the mother of the groom.
Watching out the window of the carriage as they rumbled along the road to the temples where the ceremony would continue, Irakles adopted his usual gentle and indulgent veneer which he had always presented to the people of Taengea. It is this veneer which had earned him great respect and love, for many of the commonfolk in Taengea believe Irakles to be a fearsome general who held great love for the people of his kingdom, the exact leader they wished to have.
The leader Irakles would be for them.
"All is proceeding well for now, is it not, Fotios my friend?" he murmured in a jovial attitude to the Leventi, hiding a wince when a twinge popped in his chest again. Briefly his gaze flickered to Emilios, and it was there that Irakles's eyes hardened. "Do take care to not disappear when the ceremony is ongoing later, Emilios. We do not want whispers and gossip, do you hear me? Stay by your mother's side if need be."
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He could see it - it was obvious Achilleas was besotted with Theodora, and from his vantage point, he could clearly see why. Theodora was a beautiful bride who would make a splendid wife. Lady Evelli and Lord Georgios had done well in raising all of their daughters, for all of them were considered gems of the Taengean nobility, and for his son to have one of them as a bride was a blessing from the Gods. Of course, that the wedding now joined two of the largest Taengean families together was the main reason, but at least on his end, Irakles need not fear the heir to his House would be a bastard born. So long as an heir and a spare was born of the appropriate manner, Irakles could not care if Achilleas sought to slake his desires elsewhere at a later date.
Nodding in approval when he saw Evelli smile fondly at Achilleas as she handed her daughter over to her new husband to be, before stepping back to her own husband. Theodora now rightfully was a Mikaelidas upon the conclusion of the day, and none of her matters should disturb her birth house any longer. Of course, if Irakles knew Georgios well, he doubted the man would let any of his daughter's go, attached as he was to all his offsprings.
Allowing his gaze to wander for a moment, the man's brows wrinkled when he suddenly realized his second son was nowhere to be seen. Knowing the implications of what may happen should someone notice Emilios's dissapearance, Irakles was thankful that Fotios chose this moment to speak and address all that was present, and in turn, Irakles stood next to the man with a jovial smile, putting on a picture for all to see that he was as eager as everyone else to see the wedding. Nodding to affirm that he had indeed prepared a grand feast to celebrate the wedding of his first son, the man waited as per custom for Achilleas and Theodora to head first, before he followed behind.
Taking a carriage which was soon filled by Fotios, Eirini, Irakles and Emilios (of which he hoped knew well enough to come back once he noticed the rest of the entourage was now moving), Irakles paused to ensure Myrto would come with him, and managed to watch the Lady Evelli enter with her husband and daughters, before they too did the same. In truth, this was probably the first time in many he had shared such an enclosed space for such a prolonged time with his estranged wife, but he was lucky in that Myrto was a woman who was well trained to her station in life, and today, all she had to do was to be the mother of the groom.
Watching out the window of the carriage as they rumbled along the road to the temples where the ceremony would continue, Irakles adopted his usual gentle and indulgent veneer which he had always presented to the people of Taengea. It is this veneer which had earned him great respect and love, for many of the commonfolk in Taengea believe Irakles to be a fearsome general who held great love for the people of his kingdom, the exact leader they wished to have.
The leader Irakles would be for them.
"All is proceeding well for now, is it not, Fotios my friend?" he murmured in a jovial attitude to the Leventi, hiding a wince when a twinge popped in his chest again. Briefly his gaze flickered to Emilios, and it was there that Irakles's eyes hardened. "Do take care to not disappear when the ceremony is ongoing later, Emilios. We do not want whispers and gossip, do you hear me? Stay by your mother's side if need be."
He could see it - it was obvious Achilleas was besotted with Theodora, and from his vantage point, he could clearly see why. Theodora was a beautiful bride who would make a splendid wife. Lady Evelli and Lord Georgios had done well in raising all of their daughters, for all of them were considered gems of the Taengean nobility, and for his son to have one of them as a bride was a blessing from the Gods. Of course, that the wedding now joined two of the largest Taengean families together was the main reason, but at least on his end, Irakles need not fear the heir to his House would be a bastard born. So long as an heir and a spare was born of the appropriate manner, Irakles could not care if Achilleas sought to slake his desires elsewhere at a later date.
Nodding in approval when he saw Evelli smile fondly at Achilleas as she handed her daughter over to her new husband to be, before stepping back to her own husband. Theodora now rightfully was a Mikaelidas upon the conclusion of the day, and none of her matters should disturb her birth house any longer. Of course, if Irakles knew Georgios well, he doubted the man would let any of his daughter's go, attached as he was to all his offsprings.
Allowing his gaze to wander for a moment, the man's brows wrinkled when he suddenly realized his second son was nowhere to be seen. Knowing the implications of what may happen should someone notice Emilios's dissapearance, Irakles was thankful that Fotios chose this moment to speak and address all that was present, and in turn, Irakles stood next to the man with a jovial smile, putting on a picture for all to see that he was as eager as everyone else to see the wedding. Nodding to affirm that he had indeed prepared a grand feast to celebrate the wedding of his first son, the man waited as per custom for Achilleas and Theodora to head first, before he followed behind.
Taking a carriage which was soon filled by Fotios, Eirini, Irakles and Emilios (of which he hoped knew well enough to come back once he noticed the rest of the entourage was now moving), Irakles paused to ensure Myrto would come with him, and managed to watch the Lady Evelli enter with her husband and daughters, before they too did the same. In truth, this was probably the first time in many he had shared such an enclosed space for such a prolonged time with his estranged wife, but he was lucky in that Myrto was a woman who was well trained to her station in life, and today, all she had to do was to be the mother of the groom.
Watching out the window of the carriage as they rumbled along the road to the temples where the ceremony would continue, Irakles adopted his usual gentle and indulgent veneer which he had always presented to the people of Taengea. It is this veneer which had earned him great respect and love, for many of the commonfolk in Taengea believe Irakles to be a fearsome general who held great love for the people of his kingdom, the exact leader they wished to have.
The leader Irakles would be for them.
"All is proceeding well for now, is it not, Fotios my friend?" he murmured in a jovial attitude to the Leventi, hiding a wince when a twinge popped in his chest again. Briefly his gaze flickered to Emilios, and it was there that Irakles's eyes hardened. "Do take care to not disappear when the ceremony is ongoing later, Emilios. We do not want whispers and gossip, do you hear me? Stay by your mother's side if need be."
It had been easier to disappear, counting on the festivities being centered around anyone but him. No one cared about the brother of the groom. He was just there as a support piece. And, for all intensive purposes, his brother and Theodora were wed now. Husband and wife. All that was left was to pay homage to the Gods.
Damn them, anyway.
Why wasn’t he good enough in their eyes? It wasn’t just his father who seemed to find him inadequate. It seemed that the Gods did as well. Why couldn’t he be blessed, or even slightly favored by them? He was relatively dutiful in his devotion. Sure, he only made his way to the temples when he was looking for a little support, but isn’t that what they were there for? And even then, his prayers and offerings always seemed to go unanswered.
Why was he never good enough?
He had half a mind to ditch the temples altogether, so spiteful in his thoughts of both the wedding of the deities. Emilios could not see a reason to go, for he had already done his duty-- get both bride and groom there without interference. After that, he didn’t have a thing to do, right? He should have just suffered the anger of his father later and drowned his sorrows at a tavern, maybe find a girl or two to make him forget the bride he was pining for. But before he could vanish, the party joined him outside with the carriages.
And his luck seemed to extend to his place within them.
There was no safe place to sit. Fotios had already occupied the seat next to his wife, leaving just the space next to his father as his only choice. He thought of just suggestion that he walk, or maybe take the horses, but the nod of his father to get in left him with very little choice. His eyes rolled to the heavens, his faith still lost in their ability to show him any mercy. His mother, it seemed, was the only one who took pity on him by leaving the space open next to her. Climbing in next to her, the firm grasp on her hand in his was welcomed. Squeezing back, he let it go.
And he was grateful for the reminder.
As his father spoke, Emilios rolled his eyes. “Ah, yes. Because all eyes will be on me. The gossip will certainly be focused on my actions and not still on the fact that Stephanos has been found guilty of murder and that you are king.” Drink made him brave, it would seem. His mother reached out and grasped his hand again, this time to remind him of his place. Angering Irakles the prince may have been one thing, but to further upset him as King was quite another.
“Do not worry, father. I will do my duty. As I have continued to do.” His eyes were on Fotios, knowing that he understood the meaning behind his words. He was doing as the Leventi had demanded. They were wed, even though he had wanted nothing more than to toss Theo onto the nearest horse and run. Even though his heart was shattered by the sight of her looking so longingly at his brother. Even though he could have stopped this, and damn the consequences of it all.
He was still the dutiful son.
He would always be the dutiful son.
Damn the Gods.
Damn his father.
Damn them all.
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It had been easier to disappear, counting on the festivities being centered around anyone but him. No one cared about the brother of the groom. He was just there as a support piece. And, for all intensive purposes, his brother and Theodora were wed now. Husband and wife. All that was left was to pay homage to the Gods.
Damn them, anyway.
Why wasn’t he good enough in their eyes? It wasn’t just his father who seemed to find him inadequate. It seemed that the Gods did as well. Why couldn’t he be blessed, or even slightly favored by them? He was relatively dutiful in his devotion. Sure, he only made his way to the temples when he was looking for a little support, but isn’t that what they were there for? And even then, his prayers and offerings always seemed to go unanswered.
Why was he never good enough?
He had half a mind to ditch the temples altogether, so spiteful in his thoughts of both the wedding of the deities. Emilios could not see a reason to go, for he had already done his duty-- get both bride and groom there without interference. After that, he didn’t have a thing to do, right? He should have just suffered the anger of his father later and drowned his sorrows at a tavern, maybe find a girl or two to make him forget the bride he was pining for. But before he could vanish, the party joined him outside with the carriages.
And his luck seemed to extend to his place within them.
There was no safe place to sit. Fotios had already occupied the seat next to his wife, leaving just the space next to his father as his only choice. He thought of just suggestion that he walk, or maybe take the horses, but the nod of his father to get in left him with very little choice. His eyes rolled to the heavens, his faith still lost in their ability to show him any mercy. His mother, it seemed, was the only one who took pity on him by leaving the space open next to her. Climbing in next to her, the firm grasp on her hand in his was welcomed. Squeezing back, he let it go.
And he was grateful for the reminder.
As his father spoke, Emilios rolled his eyes. “Ah, yes. Because all eyes will be on me. The gossip will certainly be focused on my actions and not still on the fact that Stephanos has been found guilty of murder and that you are king.” Drink made him brave, it would seem. His mother reached out and grasped his hand again, this time to remind him of his place. Angering Irakles the prince may have been one thing, but to further upset him as King was quite another.
“Do not worry, father. I will do my duty. As I have continued to do.” His eyes were on Fotios, knowing that he understood the meaning behind his words. He was doing as the Leventi had demanded. They were wed, even though he had wanted nothing more than to toss Theo onto the nearest horse and run. Even though his heart was shattered by the sight of her looking so longingly at his brother. Even though he could have stopped this, and damn the consequences of it all.
He was still the dutiful son.
He would always be the dutiful son.
Damn the Gods.
Damn his father.
Damn them all.
It had been easier to disappear, counting on the festivities being centered around anyone but him. No one cared about the brother of the groom. He was just there as a support piece. And, for all intensive purposes, his brother and Theodora were wed now. Husband and wife. All that was left was to pay homage to the Gods.
Damn them, anyway.
Why wasn’t he good enough in their eyes? It wasn’t just his father who seemed to find him inadequate. It seemed that the Gods did as well. Why couldn’t he be blessed, or even slightly favored by them? He was relatively dutiful in his devotion. Sure, he only made his way to the temples when he was looking for a little support, but isn’t that what they were there for? And even then, his prayers and offerings always seemed to go unanswered.
Why was he never good enough?
He had half a mind to ditch the temples altogether, so spiteful in his thoughts of both the wedding of the deities. Emilios could not see a reason to go, for he had already done his duty-- get both bride and groom there without interference. After that, he didn’t have a thing to do, right? He should have just suffered the anger of his father later and drowned his sorrows at a tavern, maybe find a girl or two to make him forget the bride he was pining for. But before he could vanish, the party joined him outside with the carriages.
And his luck seemed to extend to his place within them.
There was no safe place to sit. Fotios had already occupied the seat next to his wife, leaving just the space next to his father as his only choice. He thought of just suggestion that he walk, or maybe take the horses, but the nod of his father to get in left him with very little choice. His eyes rolled to the heavens, his faith still lost in their ability to show him any mercy. His mother, it seemed, was the only one who took pity on him by leaving the space open next to her. Climbing in next to her, the firm grasp on her hand in his was welcomed. Squeezing back, he let it go.
And he was grateful for the reminder.
As his father spoke, Emilios rolled his eyes. “Ah, yes. Because all eyes will be on me. The gossip will certainly be focused on my actions and not still on the fact that Stephanos has been found guilty of murder and that you are king.” Drink made him brave, it would seem. His mother reached out and grasped his hand again, this time to remind him of his place. Angering Irakles the prince may have been one thing, but to further upset him as King was quite another.
“Do not worry, father. I will do my duty. As I have continued to do.” His eyes were on Fotios, knowing that he understood the meaning behind his words. He was doing as the Leventi had demanded. They were wed, even though he had wanted nothing more than to toss Theo onto the nearest horse and run. Even though his heart was shattered by the sight of her looking so longingly at his brother. Even though he could have stopped this, and damn the consequences of it all.
He was still the dutiful son.
He would always be the dutiful son.
Damn the Gods.
Damn his father.
Damn them all.
As the party exited the basilica in the slow and languid pace of a crowd with all the time in the world - the wistful pace of a joyous occasion - Fotios encouraged everyone to the appropriate carriages, secured his own seat and then waited for the newly married couple to determine their start across the open courtyard of the house, out into the street and along the way towards the temple.
As they headed in the appropriate direction, five to their carriage, Fotios watched with a soft smile appropriate for the occasion, waving sporadically to the people lining the streets to witness the king, the royal couple and their dynasteias. He listened without much comment to general chatter and Emilios then speaking with a sullen petulance that reminded Fotios of a small child.
His eyes narrowed a little, but when he spoke, he blinked the expression away, his hands open in sincerity and his tone one of jovial optimism.
"Irakles, I'm sure you have nothing to be concerned upon." He said, surprisingly coming to Emilios' defence. His gaze slipped to the second of the King's sons. "I'm quite confident that the Prince never breaks his promises." He stated with a deliberate stare that was lost on each of his parents.
He then turned back to his friend with a mock expression of disapproval.
"You worry too much, my old friend."
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As the party exited the basilica in the slow and languid pace of a crowd with all the time in the world - the wistful pace of a joyous occasion - Fotios encouraged everyone to the appropriate carriages, secured his own seat and then waited for the newly married couple to determine their start across the open courtyard of the house, out into the street and along the way towards the temple.
As they headed in the appropriate direction, five to their carriage, Fotios watched with a soft smile appropriate for the occasion, waving sporadically to the people lining the streets to witness the king, the royal couple and their dynasteias. He listened without much comment to general chatter and Emilios then speaking with a sullen petulance that reminded Fotios of a small child.
His eyes narrowed a little, but when he spoke, he blinked the expression away, his hands open in sincerity and his tone one of jovial optimism.
"Irakles, I'm sure you have nothing to be concerned upon." He said, surprisingly coming to Emilios' defence. His gaze slipped to the second of the King's sons. "I'm quite confident that the Prince never breaks his promises." He stated with a deliberate stare that was lost on each of his parents.
He then turned back to his friend with a mock expression of disapproval.
"You worry too much, my old friend."
As the party exited the basilica in the slow and languid pace of a crowd with all the time in the world - the wistful pace of a joyous occasion - Fotios encouraged everyone to the appropriate carriages, secured his own seat and then waited for the newly married couple to determine their start across the open courtyard of the house, out into the street and along the way towards the temple.
As they headed in the appropriate direction, five to their carriage, Fotios watched with a soft smile appropriate for the occasion, waving sporadically to the people lining the streets to witness the king, the royal couple and their dynasteias. He listened without much comment to general chatter and Emilios then speaking with a sullen petulance that reminded Fotios of a small child.
His eyes narrowed a little, but when he spoke, he blinked the expression away, his hands open in sincerity and his tone one of jovial optimism.
"Irakles, I'm sure you have nothing to be concerned upon." He said, surprisingly coming to Emilios' defence. His gaze slipped to the second of the King's sons. "I'm quite confident that the Prince never breaks his promises." He stated with a deliberate stare that was lost on each of his parents.
He then turned back to his friend with a mock expression of disapproval.