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The night was brighter than it had been on his previous voyages across this same piece of the Aegean. Whether by blessing to ensure their voyage was safe by the sea, or in punishment to open up plain sailing for pursuers, the Gods had seen fit to open a clear and pleasant night sky. The stars and almost full moon above cast an eerily bright light across the rippling water. It was easy to see out beyond the ships bow and watch as the little waves below flipped and changed, the facets of their surface reflecting the light in little shapes and patterns. It had an almost hypnotic effect that Vangelis had been allowing to lull him into a sense of calm over the last few hours.
Not that things had been all that calm when he had initially moved to his current perch at the back of the ship, looking out towards where the silhouette of Taengea had been slipping below the horizon. Long gone now, with no hint of the origin of their journey, Vangelis was left without visuals but also without sound (which had been a burdensome companion when he had first found his corner of the deck to haunt).
Remaining, as any good man did, far away from the birthing that was happening below deck, Vangelis instead kept his position as vigil and warden, his eyesight put to better use inspecting the horizon for Taengean ships than it was inspecting the new skin and bright eyes of a newborn. Breaking with tradition, Stephanos had moved below deck to be with his wife after the birth but it was not an entirely uncommon habit for a man to practice. Even less so when the babe was so significant to the future of his family, House, legacy and reputation. One potential spot of brightness in an otherwise perilous future.
Remaining with his own values, however, Vangelis had kept himself away. As large and unknowledgeable as he was in such situations, he found it very likely that he would only be in the way. He had set about - instead - ensuring the captain, crew and ship were running at optimum efficiency; that they were speeding away from the Taengean isles with all haste and heading into Colchian waters as soon as was mortally possible for the ship. The sooner they were outside the legal control and authority of Taengea the faster they could all be assured that they would be surviving the home journey.
Previously distracted by the cries from below deck - Pia was not exactly quiet and the ship not sound proof - the air was now calm and quiet. The sailors, Vangelis was sure, were thankful for the coolness - for each time a feminine shriek of pain had wrought the air, all of the men in Vangelis' eyeline had seemed to shrink in on themselves and wince in sympathy. Childbirth was a strange and mysterious thing for the men of their world but one thing was known for certain - that it hurt and that it did so to the extent that it could kill either or both mother and child.
Now, however, the night was calm and it had been nearly half an hour before Vangelis had heard any noise at all from below deck. Given that no-one had rushed up to the main deck with fears and cries for aid, he had to assume all had gone well - though if it hadn't, Vangelis would be little help in fixing it - and had therefore turned his thoughts elsewhere as he stood at the rear of the ship.
His hands braced on the wall of the ship, spread wide, his fingers splayed over the wood, Vangelis' back was long as he stood with one foot in front of the other, his stance one that he could hold for hours on end as he watched the horizon for any signs of danger and waiting for that turn in the air where he could be confident he was in his native waters...
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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The night was brighter than it had been on his previous voyages across this same piece of the Aegean. Whether by blessing to ensure their voyage was safe by the sea, or in punishment to open up plain sailing for pursuers, the Gods had seen fit to open a clear and pleasant night sky. The stars and almost full moon above cast an eerily bright light across the rippling water. It was easy to see out beyond the ships bow and watch as the little waves below flipped and changed, the facets of their surface reflecting the light in little shapes and patterns. It had an almost hypnotic effect that Vangelis had been allowing to lull him into a sense of calm over the last few hours.
Not that things had been all that calm when he had initially moved to his current perch at the back of the ship, looking out towards where the silhouette of Taengea had been slipping below the horizon. Long gone now, with no hint of the origin of their journey, Vangelis was left without visuals but also without sound (which had been a burdensome companion when he had first found his corner of the deck to haunt).
Remaining, as any good man did, far away from the birthing that was happening below deck, Vangelis instead kept his position as vigil and warden, his eyesight put to better use inspecting the horizon for Taengean ships than it was inspecting the new skin and bright eyes of a newborn. Breaking with tradition, Stephanos had moved below deck to be with his wife after the birth but it was not an entirely uncommon habit for a man to practice. Even less so when the babe was so significant to the future of his family, House, legacy and reputation. One potential spot of brightness in an otherwise perilous future.
Remaining with his own values, however, Vangelis had kept himself away. As large and unknowledgeable as he was in such situations, he found it very likely that he would only be in the way. He had set about - instead - ensuring the captain, crew and ship were running at optimum efficiency; that they were speeding away from the Taengean isles with all haste and heading into Colchian waters as soon as was mortally possible for the ship. The sooner they were outside the legal control and authority of Taengea the faster they could all be assured that they would be surviving the home journey.
Previously distracted by the cries from below deck - Pia was not exactly quiet and the ship not sound proof - the air was now calm and quiet. The sailors, Vangelis was sure, were thankful for the coolness - for each time a feminine shriek of pain had wrought the air, all of the men in Vangelis' eyeline had seemed to shrink in on themselves and wince in sympathy. Childbirth was a strange and mysterious thing for the men of their world but one thing was known for certain - that it hurt and that it did so to the extent that it could kill either or both mother and child.
Now, however, the night was calm and it had been nearly half an hour before Vangelis had heard any noise at all from below deck. Given that no-one had rushed up to the main deck with fears and cries for aid, he had to assume all had gone well - though if it hadn't, Vangelis would be little help in fixing it - and had therefore turned his thoughts elsewhere as he stood at the rear of the ship.
His hands braced on the wall of the ship, spread wide, his fingers splayed over the wood, Vangelis' back was long as he stood with one foot in front of the other, his stance one that he could hold for hours on end as he watched the horizon for any signs of danger and waiting for that turn in the air where he could be confident he was in his native waters...
The night was brighter than it had been on his previous voyages across this same piece of the Aegean. Whether by blessing to ensure their voyage was safe by the sea, or in punishment to open up plain sailing for pursuers, the Gods had seen fit to open a clear and pleasant night sky. The stars and almost full moon above cast an eerily bright light across the rippling water. It was easy to see out beyond the ships bow and watch as the little waves below flipped and changed, the facets of their surface reflecting the light in little shapes and patterns. It had an almost hypnotic effect that Vangelis had been allowing to lull him into a sense of calm over the last few hours.
Not that things had been all that calm when he had initially moved to his current perch at the back of the ship, looking out towards where the silhouette of Taengea had been slipping below the horizon. Long gone now, with no hint of the origin of their journey, Vangelis was left without visuals but also without sound (which had been a burdensome companion when he had first found his corner of the deck to haunt).
Remaining, as any good man did, far away from the birthing that was happening below deck, Vangelis instead kept his position as vigil and warden, his eyesight put to better use inspecting the horizon for Taengean ships than it was inspecting the new skin and bright eyes of a newborn. Breaking with tradition, Stephanos had moved below deck to be with his wife after the birth but it was not an entirely uncommon habit for a man to practice. Even less so when the babe was so significant to the future of his family, House, legacy and reputation. One potential spot of brightness in an otherwise perilous future.
Remaining with his own values, however, Vangelis had kept himself away. As large and unknowledgeable as he was in such situations, he found it very likely that he would only be in the way. He had set about - instead - ensuring the captain, crew and ship were running at optimum efficiency; that they were speeding away from the Taengean isles with all haste and heading into Colchian waters as soon as was mortally possible for the ship. The sooner they were outside the legal control and authority of Taengea the faster they could all be assured that they would be surviving the home journey.
Previously distracted by the cries from below deck - Pia was not exactly quiet and the ship not sound proof - the air was now calm and quiet. The sailors, Vangelis was sure, were thankful for the coolness - for each time a feminine shriek of pain had wrought the air, all of the men in Vangelis' eyeline had seemed to shrink in on themselves and wince in sympathy. Childbirth was a strange and mysterious thing for the men of their world but one thing was known for certain - that it hurt and that it did so to the extent that it could kill either or both mother and child.
Now, however, the night was calm and it had been nearly half an hour before Vangelis had heard any noise at all from below deck. Given that no-one had rushed up to the main deck with fears and cries for aid, he had to assume all had gone well - though if it hadn't, Vangelis would be little help in fixing it - and had therefore turned his thoughts elsewhere as he stood at the rear of the ship.
His hands braced on the wall of the ship, spread wide, his fingers splayed over the wood, Vangelis' back was long as he stood with one foot in front of the other, his stance one that he could hold for hours on end as he watched the horizon for any signs of danger and waiting for that turn in the air where he could be confident he was in his native waters...
With sister and babe in the hands of the usurped King, Selene took a moment to enjoy the sweet moment between the family. As she watched them quietly in the background, it was easy for her to see why she had gone through the trouble she had in the first place. This was worth it, and the longer she watched, the more she realized she would have done the same for any family who was in the same position.
But lives had been sacrificed in order to create the scene in front of her.
Throughout the whole situation, she had been a rock. Her courage hadn’t wavered, not before the escape or during the birth. She had been strong and steady, making any decisions she could and taking on roles she never imagined she would have to. Then, all of the sudden, the weight of it all threatened to crush her. The room felt too small for all of them, the rocking of the boat far more rough than it had been before. The outfit she was in felt like steel, hot and heavy on her small frame. The two didn’t seem to notice as she slipped out of the room, searching for fresh air and some sanity.
Selene couldn’t get out of the room fast enough, still dressed in the blood soaked disguise she had put on hours before. The next line was open, but even that wasn’t enough for her. It felt impossible to breathe, and stepping out into the cold air of the deck didn’t help. She was hyper focused on the relief she was searching to find on deck, giving no consideration to anyone else who was there. She pulled off the pants, the boots long discarded, tossing them into a corner as the purple skirts pooled out and down around her waist. The top was added to the pile and she almost didn’t pull the neck back up, but the shaking of her fingers as she did only heightened her panic. There was a moment in which she didn’t care who saw her, who had witnessed her undressing. She had been facing the ocean, pressed against the rail— very little would have been truly visible save for her back.
The cool air and the silks were helping. Gripping the rail like a vice, it took her a moment to realize that the odd breathing pattern she was hearing was coming from her as she was hyperventilating. And the cold trails on her cheeks were tears of her breakdown. She brushed them away, back in the reality of things. Well out to sea, there had been no signs of ships following them. If there had been, she was sure that they would have been told, regardless of what was happening below. Now, with the smell of salt in her nostrils and not blood, she took a moment to gather her thoughts.
She had made choices that night, her heart driving her forced hand. At the moment of it all, the only emotions she could find were the devastation of losing her sister. For her, the actions of Irakles (and subsequently, the court) had been disloyalty at its finest. And even though she was just a woman, she wanted to show Stephanos her own support. Selene had been certain, initially, that they would get a fair trial. But her lack of knowledge in the ways of politics was a bit embarrassing. Her faith in the truth had been childish, and her reaction to it all, in turn, had been just that. Vangelis had been right in his admonishment of her choice. There was far more to this than she could wrap her head around, but all she could see was the impending death of her sister and child.
Nothing else mattered in that moment.
And now, she would have to deal with the aftermath of her actions.
With a soft sigh, another brush of her cheeks, and a glance down at her dress, Selene was glad that her emotions were coming back into check. The stress of the night had been more than she expected, and now it had rolled off her with each steady rock of the ship. Her eyes glanced to the side, cheeks flailing red as she noticed that company was close at hand, only a stone’s throw away.
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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With sister and babe in the hands of the usurped King, Selene took a moment to enjoy the sweet moment between the family. As she watched them quietly in the background, it was easy for her to see why she had gone through the trouble she had in the first place. This was worth it, and the longer she watched, the more she realized she would have done the same for any family who was in the same position.
But lives had been sacrificed in order to create the scene in front of her.
Throughout the whole situation, she had been a rock. Her courage hadn’t wavered, not before the escape or during the birth. She had been strong and steady, making any decisions she could and taking on roles she never imagined she would have to. Then, all of the sudden, the weight of it all threatened to crush her. The room felt too small for all of them, the rocking of the boat far more rough than it had been before. The outfit she was in felt like steel, hot and heavy on her small frame. The two didn’t seem to notice as she slipped out of the room, searching for fresh air and some sanity.
Selene couldn’t get out of the room fast enough, still dressed in the blood soaked disguise she had put on hours before. The next line was open, but even that wasn’t enough for her. It felt impossible to breathe, and stepping out into the cold air of the deck didn’t help. She was hyper focused on the relief she was searching to find on deck, giving no consideration to anyone else who was there. She pulled off the pants, the boots long discarded, tossing them into a corner as the purple skirts pooled out and down around her waist. The top was added to the pile and she almost didn’t pull the neck back up, but the shaking of her fingers as she did only heightened her panic. There was a moment in which she didn’t care who saw her, who had witnessed her undressing. She had been facing the ocean, pressed against the rail— very little would have been truly visible save for her back.
The cool air and the silks were helping. Gripping the rail like a vice, it took her a moment to realize that the odd breathing pattern she was hearing was coming from her as she was hyperventilating. And the cold trails on her cheeks were tears of her breakdown. She brushed them away, back in the reality of things. Well out to sea, there had been no signs of ships following them. If there had been, she was sure that they would have been told, regardless of what was happening below. Now, with the smell of salt in her nostrils and not blood, she took a moment to gather her thoughts.
She had made choices that night, her heart driving her forced hand. At the moment of it all, the only emotions she could find were the devastation of losing her sister. For her, the actions of Irakles (and subsequently, the court) had been disloyalty at its finest. And even though she was just a woman, she wanted to show Stephanos her own support. Selene had been certain, initially, that they would get a fair trial. But her lack of knowledge in the ways of politics was a bit embarrassing. Her faith in the truth had been childish, and her reaction to it all, in turn, had been just that. Vangelis had been right in his admonishment of her choice. There was far more to this than she could wrap her head around, but all she could see was the impending death of her sister and child.
Nothing else mattered in that moment.
And now, she would have to deal with the aftermath of her actions.
With a soft sigh, another brush of her cheeks, and a glance down at her dress, Selene was glad that her emotions were coming back into check. The stress of the night had been more than she expected, and now it had rolled off her with each steady rock of the ship. Her eyes glanced to the side, cheeks flailing red as she noticed that company was close at hand, only a stone’s throw away.
With sister and babe in the hands of the usurped King, Selene took a moment to enjoy the sweet moment between the family. As she watched them quietly in the background, it was easy for her to see why she had gone through the trouble she had in the first place. This was worth it, and the longer she watched, the more she realized she would have done the same for any family who was in the same position.
But lives had been sacrificed in order to create the scene in front of her.
Throughout the whole situation, she had been a rock. Her courage hadn’t wavered, not before the escape or during the birth. She had been strong and steady, making any decisions she could and taking on roles she never imagined she would have to. Then, all of the sudden, the weight of it all threatened to crush her. The room felt too small for all of them, the rocking of the boat far more rough than it had been before. The outfit she was in felt like steel, hot and heavy on her small frame. The two didn’t seem to notice as she slipped out of the room, searching for fresh air and some sanity.
Selene couldn’t get out of the room fast enough, still dressed in the blood soaked disguise she had put on hours before. The next line was open, but even that wasn’t enough for her. It felt impossible to breathe, and stepping out into the cold air of the deck didn’t help. She was hyper focused on the relief she was searching to find on deck, giving no consideration to anyone else who was there. She pulled off the pants, the boots long discarded, tossing them into a corner as the purple skirts pooled out and down around her waist. The top was added to the pile and she almost didn’t pull the neck back up, but the shaking of her fingers as she did only heightened her panic. There was a moment in which she didn’t care who saw her, who had witnessed her undressing. She had been facing the ocean, pressed against the rail— very little would have been truly visible save for her back.
The cool air and the silks were helping. Gripping the rail like a vice, it took her a moment to realize that the odd breathing pattern she was hearing was coming from her as she was hyperventilating. And the cold trails on her cheeks were tears of her breakdown. She brushed them away, back in the reality of things. Well out to sea, there had been no signs of ships following them. If there had been, she was sure that they would have been told, regardless of what was happening below. Now, with the smell of salt in her nostrils and not blood, she took a moment to gather her thoughts.
She had made choices that night, her heart driving her forced hand. At the moment of it all, the only emotions she could find were the devastation of losing her sister. For her, the actions of Irakles (and subsequently, the court) had been disloyalty at its finest. And even though she was just a woman, she wanted to show Stephanos her own support. Selene had been certain, initially, that they would get a fair trial. But her lack of knowledge in the ways of politics was a bit embarrassing. Her faith in the truth had been childish, and her reaction to it all, in turn, had been just that. Vangelis had been right in his admonishment of her choice. There was far more to this than she could wrap her head around, but all she could see was the impending death of her sister and child.
Nothing else mattered in that moment.
And now, she would have to deal with the aftermath of her actions.
With a soft sigh, another brush of her cheeks, and a glance down at her dress, Selene was glad that her emotions were coming back into check. The stress of the night had been more than she expected, and now it had rolled off her with each steady rock of the ship. Her eyes glanced to the side, cheeks flailing red as she noticed that company was close at hand, only a stone’s throw away.
With the deck and crew muted and quiet in the nighttime hush, it was easy to notice when a new noise or interruption occurred, even if it was outside of Vangelis' line of vision. The wind was calm - there was no gale or howl in the ears of the sailors as the breeze tugged lightly at their hair and tunics, the sails filling with fuel for the journey. There were no harsh waves to crash against the bow and break, or create a noisy wake to follow them. The sailors themselves had been diminished to the dark watch, most below decks in hammocks and cabins, taking a rest before they were put to oar once the sun rose. Vangelis had ensured that the ship made great lengths in their journey as quickly as possible by insisting on both oar and sail to encourage the slicing motion of the ship through the water. Now, most were asleep and recharging, with only a few walking silently over the wooden deck, bare-footed and mute.
The noise made by the newcomer from below deck was easy enough, therefore, to identify. The steps were light and close together, indicating a woman. Vangelis could use all the logic in the world, insisting that Imeeya and Asia were likely asleep and Queen Olympia unable to walk so soon after her child's birth, leaving only one possible female (Nike hardly counted) to own the steps he could hear. But the simple truth of it was that Vangelis had grown to recognise the Lady Selene's gait and step. It wouldn't have mattered where the other women of the vessel were being kept occupied. He would have recognised her regardless. When and how such a thing had been filed into his memory, he wasn’t sure. But there it was all the same…
What was unfamiliar to him, however, was the sound of her breathing.
Normally, a young woman of dignity and high-class breeding was trained to never show her need to breathe. As silly as it seemed in theory, a gentile lady was expected to inhale and exhale with such smooth grace that it was silent and hardly noticed. To be out of breath or erratic in the drawing of air was a sign of emotional disquiet, of physical challenge or poor health. None of which were the signs of a well-cared-for noble woman.
So, to hear the almost rough sound of Selene's uneven breathing was a surprise that had Vangelis slowly peering over his shoulder towards the darkened figure at the edge of the ship behind him. She was the only one in sight as Vangelis had taken watch at the rear of the ship. The rudder had been tied into place for a straight journey towards Colchis and the other watchmen were scouting for rocks and obstacles ahead at the other end of the vessel.
His eyes quickly searching for some severe or obvious sign of distress, Vangelis thought little of the action when Selene dropped the lower garments of her disguise. The purple skirts fell to her ankles almost seamlessly with the disposal of the armour and the shadow of the ship's external wall kept any pale length of leg hidden as she changed.
He wasn't quick enough, however, to realise that Selene meant to finish the change of her clothing there on the open deck. Looking out to sea, her stature turned mostly away from him, Vangelis felt his brows rise and his lips part as his friend boldly removed the upper tunic of her attire.
Raised with an attitude towards women that should have had him looking away to ensure Selene's dignity, Vangelis was shamed to admit that his gaze lingered. The candlelight from the oil dish a few feet from where Selene stood cast a warm, tan glow over her skin and threw the shadows of her shoulder blades into sharp relief. The elegant curve of her spine was cast into shadow before it flowed into smoothness at the curve of her rear.
Vangelis felt his eyes dry with the need to blink and his tongue turn heavy in his mouth as he looked towards her side and the gentle swell of her womanly shape. He could see nothing more of her breast than he was able to when the dress was worn in place but the knowledge that a simple turn would reveal far more than had ever been on show in the great gallery of the royal palace made the sight far more distracting than when it had been near covered with purple silk.
Having not noticed him, Selene was quick to refasten her gown into place around her neck and the gesture had a sudden and awakening effect on Vangelis. Chastising himself with his mother's reproachful words in his head, he turned back to look out over the sea, before Selene could catch him gawking like a brute.
Only after he had given her a few moments to ensure she was decent once more did he look back, suddenly angry on her behalf that she had been foolish enough to expose herself where any of the night watch (or royalty with apparently limited self-restraint) could witness her undress. He turned back to notice her gaze turned in his direction. He swallowed and turned conversation to that which had drawn his notice before she had seen fit to discard her clothing...
"Take deep breaths." He told her, his voice deeper and rougher than usual. He swallowed upon a mouth that felt like sand. He had seen soldiers panic in way and knew how such terror could affect one's breathing. "Slowly. You'll feel calmer."
Turning away from her once more, his knuckles tight on the wood in front of him, Vangelis felt his teeth grit and his jaw set into a hard line. There were multiple reasons why he didn't wish to speak with Selene this night. And witnessing her God-blessed shape in near nudity had only added to the pile.
Perhaps some deep breathing was a good idea for more than one of their party... he thought, filling his lungs deeply with the cool, salty air…
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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With the deck and crew muted and quiet in the nighttime hush, it was easy to notice when a new noise or interruption occurred, even if it was outside of Vangelis' line of vision. The wind was calm - there was no gale or howl in the ears of the sailors as the breeze tugged lightly at their hair and tunics, the sails filling with fuel for the journey. There were no harsh waves to crash against the bow and break, or create a noisy wake to follow them. The sailors themselves had been diminished to the dark watch, most below decks in hammocks and cabins, taking a rest before they were put to oar once the sun rose. Vangelis had ensured that the ship made great lengths in their journey as quickly as possible by insisting on both oar and sail to encourage the slicing motion of the ship through the water. Now, most were asleep and recharging, with only a few walking silently over the wooden deck, bare-footed and mute.
The noise made by the newcomer from below deck was easy enough, therefore, to identify. The steps were light and close together, indicating a woman. Vangelis could use all the logic in the world, insisting that Imeeya and Asia were likely asleep and Queen Olympia unable to walk so soon after her child's birth, leaving only one possible female (Nike hardly counted) to own the steps he could hear. But the simple truth of it was that Vangelis had grown to recognise the Lady Selene's gait and step. It wouldn't have mattered where the other women of the vessel were being kept occupied. He would have recognised her regardless. When and how such a thing had been filed into his memory, he wasn’t sure. But there it was all the same…
What was unfamiliar to him, however, was the sound of her breathing.
Normally, a young woman of dignity and high-class breeding was trained to never show her need to breathe. As silly as it seemed in theory, a gentile lady was expected to inhale and exhale with such smooth grace that it was silent and hardly noticed. To be out of breath or erratic in the drawing of air was a sign of emotional disquiet, of physical challenge or poor health. None of which were the signs of a well-cared-for noble woman.
So, to hear the almost rough sound of Selene's uneven breathing was a surprise that had Vangelis slowly peering over his shoulder towards the darkened figure at the edge of the ship behind him. She was the only one in sight as Vangelis had taken watch at the rear of the ship. The rudder had been tied into place for a straight journey towards Colchis and the other watchmen were scouting for rocks and obstacles ahead at the other end of the vessel.
His eyes quickly searching for some severe or obvious sign of distress, Vangelis thought little of the action when Selene dropped the lower garments of her disguise. The purple skirts fell to her ankles almost seamlessly with the disposal of the armour and the shadow of the ship's external wall kept any pale length of leg hidden as she changed.
He wasn't quick enough, however, to realise that Selene meant to finish the change of her clothing there on the open deck. Looking out to sea, her stature turned mostly away from him, Vangelis felt his brows rise and his lips part as his friend boldly removed the upper tunic of her attire.
Raised with an attitude towards women that should have had him looking away to ensure Selene's dignity, Vangelis was shamed to admit that his gaze lingered. The candlelight from the oil dish a few feet from where Selene stood cast a warm, tan glow over her skin and threw the shadows of her shoulder blades into sharp relief. The elegant curve of her spine was cast into shadow before it flowed into smoothness at the curve of her rear.
Vangelis felt his eyes dry with the need to blink and his tongue turn heavy in his mouth as he looked towards her side and the gentle swell of her womanly shape. He could see nothing more of her breast than he was able to when the dress was worn in place but the knowledge that a simple turn would reveal far more than had ever been on show in the great gallery of the royal palace made the sight far more distracting than when it had been near covered with purple silk.
Having not noticed him, Selene was quick to refasten her gown into place around her neck and the gesture had a sudden and awakening effect on Vangelis. Chastising himself with his mother's reproachful words in his head, he turned back to look out over the sea, before Selene could catch him gawking like a brute.
Only after he had given her a few moments to ensure she was decent once more did he look back, suddenly angry on her behalf that she had been foolish enough to expose herself where any of the night watch (or royalty with apparently limited self-restraint) could witness her undress. He turned back to notice her gaze turned in his direction. He swallowed and turned conversation to that which had drawn his notice before she had seen fit to discard her clothing...
"Take deep breaths." He told her, his voice deeper and rougher than usual. He swallowed upon a mouth that felt like sand. He had seen soldiers panic in way and knew how such terror could affect one's breathing. "Slowly. You'll feel calmer."
Turning away from her once more, his knuckles tight on the wood in front of him, Vangelis felt his teeth grit and his jaw set into a hard line. There were multiple reasons why he didn't wish to speak with Selene this night. And witnessing her God-blessed shape in near nudity had only added to the pile.
Perhaps some deep breathing was a good idea for more than one of their party... he thought, filling his lungs deeply with the cool, salty air…
With the deck and crew muted and quiet in the nighttime hush, it was easy to notice when a new noise or interruption occurred, even if it was outside of Vangelis' line of vision. The wind was calm - there was no gale or howl in the ears of the sailors as the breeze tugged lightly at their hair and tunics, the sails filling with fuel for the journey. There were no harsh waves to crash against the bow and break, or create a noisy wake to follow them. The sailors themselves had been diminished to the dark watch, most below decks in hammocks and cabins, taking a rest before they were put to oar once the sun rose. Vangelis had ensured that the ship made great lengths in their journey as quickly as possible by insisting on both oar and sail to encourage the slicing motion of the ship through the water. Now, most were asleep and recharging, with only a few walking silently over the wooden deck, bare-footed and mute.
The noise made by the newcomer from below deck was easy enough, therefore, to identify. The steps were light and close together, indicating a woman. Vangelis could use all the logic in the world, insisting that Imeeya and Asia were likely asleep and Queen Olympia unable to walk so soon after her child's birth, leaving only one possible female (Nike hardly counted) to own the steps he could hear. But the simple truth of it was that Vangelis had grown to recognise the Lady Selene's gait and step. It wouldn't have mattered where the other women of the vessel were being kept occupied. He would have recognised her regardless. When and how such a thing had been filed into his memory, he wasn’t sure. But there it was all the same…
What was unfamiliar to him, however, was the sound of her breathing.
Normally, a young woman of dignity and high-class breeding was trained to never show her need to breathe. As silly as it seemed in theory, a gentile lady was expected to inhale and exhale with such smooth grace that it was silent and hardly noticed. To be out of breath or erratic in the drawing of air was a sign of emotional disquiet, of physical challenge or poor health. None of which were the signs of a well-cared-for noble woman.
So, to hear the almost rough sound of Selene's uneven breathing was a surprise that had Vangelis slowly peering over his shoulder towards the darkened figure at the edge of the ship behind him. She was the only one in sight as Vangelis had taken watch at the rear of the ship. The rudder had been tied into place for a straight journey towards Colchis and the other watchmen were scouting for rocks and obstacles ahead at the other end of the vessel.
His eyes quickly searching for some severe or obvious sign of distress, Vangelis thought little of the action when Selene dropped the lower garments of her disguise. The purple skirts fell to her ankles almost seamlessly with the disposal of the armour and the shadow of the ship's external wall kept any pale length of leg hidden as she changed.
He wasn't quick enough, however, to realise that Selene meant to finish the change of her clothing there on the open deck. Looking out to sea, her stature turned mostly away from him, Vangelis felt his brows rise and his lips part as his friend boldly removed the upper tunic of her attire.
Raised with an attitude towards women that should have had him looking away to ensure Selene's dignity, Vangelis was shamed to admit that his gaze lingered. The candlelight from the oil dish a few feet from where Selene stood cast a warm, tan glow over her skin and threw the shadows of her shoulder blades into sharp relief. The elegant curve of her spine was cast into shadow before it flowed into smoothness at the curve of her rear.
Vangelis felt his eyes dry with the need to blink and his tongue turn heavy in his mouth as he looked towards her side and the gentle swell of her womanly shape. He could see nothing more of her breast than he was able to when the dress was worn in place but the knowledge that a simple turn would reveal far more than had ever been on show in the great gallery of the royal palace made the sight far more distracting than when it had been near covered with purple silk.
Having not noticed him, Selene was quick to refasten her gown into place around her neck and the gesture had a sudden and awakening effect on Vangelis. Chastising himself with his mother's reproachful words in his head, he turned back to look out over the sea, before Selene could catch him gawking like a brute.
Only after he had given her a few moments to ensure she was decent once more did he look back, suddenly angry on her behalf that she had been foolish enough to expose herself where any of the night watch (or royalty with apparently limited self-restraint) could witness her undress. He turned back to notice her gaze turned in his direction. He swallowed and turned conversation to that which had drawn his notice before she had seen fit to discard her clothing...
"Take deep breaths." He told her, his voice deeper and rougher than usual. He swallowed upon a mouth that felt like sand. He had seen soldiers panic in way and knew how such terror could affect one's breathing. "Slowly. You'll feel calmer."
Turning away from her once more, his knuckles tight on the wood in front of him, Vangelis felt his teeth grit and his jaw set into a hard line. There were multiple reasons why he didn't wish to speak with Selene this night. And witnessing her God-blessed shape in near nudity had only added to the pile.
Perhaps some deep breathing was a good idea for more than one of their party... he thought, filling his lungs deeply with the cool, salty air…
If she hadn’t been she had been of more sound mind, she would have felt the eyes on her. And she certainly wouldn’t have taken to removing the disguise on the deck of the ship. Luckily for her, the house seemed to be in her favor to allow her some odd privacy, even if it was only in her head. Her heart had been pounding in her ears, making any thought impossible.
She might as well have killed those men herself for that little girl below, just to give her a chance to change the world. And she was glad it was a girl, for at least she would be safe from outright murder. A prince would have been a target for Irakles, so at least she may be safe from his wrath.
The voice broke through her panic, soothing enough to help her take deeper breaths. Anyone else, she would have told them to mind their own business (wholly out of character for the petite blonde) but the deep timber of an all too familiar voice was a blessing. Doing as he suggested, each breath she took in was deeper, slower and more calm than the last. Her composure gathered, though her thoughts still a mess, she turned to him to see his back. Good, perhaps he hadn’t seen her improper act of disrobing on a ship full of men.
“My apologies for interrupting you.” She said softly, her voice husky, a bit strained. With the material still on deck, she picked it up and tossed it overboard, wishing to have little reminder of what had happened below. Of what had happened before they set sail.
She would never forget. But didn’t want to see it either.
“I…” She was at a loss for words, unsure what to say. How could she form the right feelings for everything this man had done for her? How could she even make it known to him that she didn’t take his actions lightly? She knew now, with her mind clear, that he had risked everything important to him to save the family below. And yet, his friendship with Stephanos hadn’t been enough to sway his mind. Only when she had asked what he would do for his sister did he take action.
Why?
To say she was confused was a gross understatement. She had no idea why he would risk it all, simply because she didn’t view his friendship with her any more important than his friendship with the usurped King.
The silent felt uncomfortable. “Tis a girl.” She said, but even the topic of the baby that she had assisted into the world didn’t seem safe.
Never had she felt so unsure of herself.
“I do not know how men can bear the burden of their duties without letting it haunt them.” She said, her honesty whispered to the wind. Her damp curls shook, “I am sorry. I shall leave you to your thoughts.” Selene suddenly felt like a burden to him. She had already caused him enough grief, no need to add more on.
Arms wrapped around herself, she turned with the intention of leaving him to his thoughts.
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If she hadn’t been she had been of more sound mind, she would have felt the eyes on her. And she certainly wouldn’t have taken to removing the disguise on the deck of the ship. Luckily for her, the house seemed to be in her favor to allow her some odd privacy, even if it was only in her head. Her heart had been pounding in her ears, making any thought impossible.
She might as well have killed those men herself for that little girl below, just to give her a chance to change the world. And she was glad it was a girl, for at least she would be safe from outright murder. A prince would have been a target for Irakles, so at least she may be safe from his wrath.
The voice broke through her panic, soothing enough to help her take deeper breaths. Anyone else, she would have told them to mind their own business (wholly out of character for the petite blonde) but the deep timber of an all too familiar voice was a blessing. Doing as he suggested, each breath she took in was deeper, slower and more calm than the last. Her composure gathered, though her thoughts still a mess, she turned to him to see his back. Good, perhaps he hadn’t seen her improper act of disrobing on a ship full of men.
“My apologies for interrupting you.” She said softly, her voice husky, a bit strained. With the material still on deck, she picked it up and tossed it overboard, wishing to have little reminder of what had happened below. Of what had happened before they set sail.
She would never forget. But didn’t want to see it either.
“I…” She was at a loss for words, unsure what to say. How could she form the right feelings for everything this man had done for her? How could she even make it known to him that she didn’t take his actions lightly? She knew now, with her mind clear, that he had risked everything important to him to save the family below. And yet, his friendship with Stephanos hadn’t been enough to sway his mind. Only when she had asked what he would do for his sister did he take action.
Why?
To say she was confused was a gross understatement. She had no idea why he would risk it all, simply because she didn’t view his friendship with her any more important than his friendship with the usurped King.
The silent felt uncomfortable. “Tis a girl.” She said, but even the topic of the baby that she had assisted into the world didn’t seem safe.
Never had she felt so unsure of herself.
“I do not know how men can bear the burden of their duties without letting it haunt them.” She said, her honesty whispered to the wind. Her damp curls shook, “I am sorry. I shall leave you to your thoughts.” Selene suddenly felt like a burden to him. She had already caused him enough grief, no need to add more on.
Arms wrapped around herself, she turned with the intention of leaving him to his thoughts.
If she hadn’t been she had been of more sound mind, she would have felt the eyes on her. And she certainly wouldn’t have taken to removing the disguise on the deck of the ship. Luckily for her, the house seemed to be in her favor to allow her some odd privacy, even if it was only in her head. Her heart had been pounding in her ears, making any thought impossible.
She might as well have killed those men herself for that little girl below, just to give her a chance to change the world. And she was glad it was a girl, for at least she would be safe from outright murder. A prince would have been a target for Irakles, so at least she may be safe from his wrath.
The voice broke through her panic, soothing enough to help her take deeper breaths. Anyone else, she would have told them to mind their own business (wholly out of character for the petite blonde) but the deep timber of an all too familiar voice was a blessing. Doing as he suggested, each breath she took in was deeper, slower and more calm than the last. Her composure gathered, though her thoughts still a mess, she turned to him to see his back. Good, perhaps he hadn’t seen her improper act of disrobing on a ship full of men.
“My apologies for interrupting you.” She said softly, her voice husky, a bit strained. With the material still on deck, she picked it up and tossed it overboard, wishing to have little reminder of what had happened below. Of what had happened before they set sail.
She would never forget. But didn’t want to see it either.
“I…” She was at a loss for words, unsure what to say. How could she form the right feelings for everything this man had done for her? How could she even make it known to him that she didn’t take his actions lightly? She knew now, with her mind clear, that he had risked everything important to him to save the family below. And yet, his friendship with Stephanos hadn’t been enough to sway his mind. Only when she had asked what he would do for his sister did he take action.
Why?
To say she was confused was a gross understatement. She had no idea why he would risk it all, simply because she didn’t view his friendship with her any more important than his friendship with the usurped King.
The silent felt uncomfortable. “Tis a girl.” She said, but even the topic of the baby that she had assisted into the world didn’t seem safe.
Never had she felt so unsure of herself.
“I do not know how men can bear the burden of their duties without letting it haunt them.” She said, her honesty whispered to the wind. Her damp curls shook, “I am sorry. I shall leave you to your thoughts.” Selene suddenly felt like a burden to him. She had already caused him enough grief, no need to add more on.
Arms wrapped around herself, she turned with the intention of leaving him to his thoughts.
He witnessed as Selene took his advice, breathing calmly and slowly. He watched as her lips turned inward slightly on her exhale, controlling the pace of air. He blinked and looked away, a tightening sensation hitting him just beneath his ribcage. He swallowed and resisted the instinctive desire to rub absent-mindedly at his middle to ease the feeling.
He found himself constantly swaying in his opinion over the woman beside him; unable to settle on a single interpretation of her.
When she was in her element, in the safety of her home and handling herself in society, the eldest Leventi daughter was the epitome of elegance and grace. She was calm, confident and followed the rules of civility to as close to perfection as it was possible for a courtier to attain. When Selene was in such an element, she felt distant but appealing. Like a pretty painting or graceful piece of sculpture; something that you could feel an emotional connection to, simply through the beauty it exuded. But not a personal one. It was the difference between respect and friendship, he decided as he watched her strengthen her resolve against her emotions. He respected the woman who was the role model for her younger sisters. But he wasn't friends with her.
The person that Vangelis had slowly found himself to be friends with was the woman who motivated such behaviour. The Selene that was elegant and graceful could have been so because she was forced to be by her parents. She could have behaved as such because she enjoyed the attention. She might have acted as she did simply to attract a successful husband. They were all valid and common reasons for the young women of the Grecian courts to hold and command themselves in a certain way. But in the time that Vangelis had known her, both in person and through her written hand, he had begun to notice that she didn't fall into any of these motivations. Instead, she influenced her own actions and decisions. She behaved as she did because she, to put it simply, thought it was the right thing to do. Because she wanted to show respect to those she met; because she wanted to set an example for her sisters; because she wished to honour her parents; honour the Gods... the reasons were likely numerous and Vangelis didn't consider himself a skilled-enough judge of others to be able to be arrogant in his assurance that he knew all of them. Selene's motivations were her own. But he had long since decided that they were her own. Not the machinations of others. It was an independence of choice that Vangelis deeply liked. For he found it echoed in himself.
It was true that Vangelis had been given certain expectations from a young age - as he was sure the eldest of five girls would be given in her own childhood - but he had never taken up his mantle as General of the Colchian Armies, nor his birthright as Crown Prince, because he felt that he had been forced to. He had always wanted to be what he was. In order to serve his kingdom and to serve others. His own desires had never seemed to factor into any decisions because they were always synonymous with the duties that were expected of him. Perhaps he had simply been lucky to develop a natural desire to do what was right for his position. Perhaps Selene had been lucky in the same way.
Perhaps he was over-thinking it.
When Selene spoke, her words interrupted the thoughts that were going in circles in his head. She apologised for interrupting him.
His lips parting to tell her that such an interruption was neither an issue nor something to be apologised for, something halted his tongue and he hesitated. It had always been easy to speak with Selene naturally - at least in recent months. But now, he felt awkward in her presence. There was a tension that hadn't been there before. It burned low and quiet in his belly and it tightened his throat. It put up obstacles in his mind that halted his instinctive responses and had him unsure of his answers.
It had been that way whenever he thought about her or talked to her since she had come to him and asked for his help to rescue Olympia. After having decided that he deeply liked the dignity and selfless independence of Selene’s way of living… he hadn’t known how to handle it when that had morphed into a short-sighted desire to save her sister. One that she had asked him to help him. Going against his own responsibilities.
He had been unable to correlate such a request with his respect for her. But her compassion for her sister had tugged at their connection of friendship. Yet, her lack of consideration for his own position had felt hurtful given the friendship that they had developed. But he had admired her determination.
It was a mess of ambivalence that Vangelis was not used to. In his world, things were black and white.
For whatever reason, the same tensions seemed to have taken over Selene as she started again but was unable to complete her sentence. He glanced her way and watched as she struggled, as if her challenges would provide an answer to his own.
'Tis a girl...' she said at last. Clearly not what she had intended to say from the start but it was a conversation starter of sorts.
Nodding a little and offering a "Hmm..." to show that he had heard her, Vangelis wasn't sure how else to respond to it, though. In truth, either sex came with its benefits and drawbacks. A son would have helped in Stephanos reclaiming the throne of Taengea - a throne that Vangelis was fairly certain would now have been pulled from his hands entirely by his uncle back home - but it also placed a larger and brighter target on the back of him and his little family. A girl was perhaps less helpful politically... but she had the chance of being able to live without a bounty on her head. And a daughter this time didn’t mean that Stephanos wouldn’t be able to produce sons in the future. For her sake, Vangelis hoped that Stephanos could love a daughter as he might have a son.
For a moment, Vangelis wondered what it would be like to have children. What if he, as heir to his throne and due to produce the next generation of heirs, had a daughter instead of a son? He tried to imagine his feelings on the subject but the idea of him as a father (despite always being something he knew he would one day have to oblige his kingdom with) was so emotionally foreign to him, it seemed bizarre and he pushed it away.
'I do not know how men can bear the burden of their duties without letting it haunt them.'
Vangelis blinked. He wasn't sure how to respond to that either. The burden of their duties? Strange that she saw the responsibilities of men in such a way. Or perhaps he was strange, as Vangelis realised that he had never seen his duties as a burden. Sometimes they were challenging. At others dangerous. But they were always done with determination and he had never regretted any choices he had made in any of his differing roles. He’d certainly never considered any of them a burden.
He opened his mouth, hesitated, and then pressed on with his natural response, his tone quiet and not necessarily open for response.
"I always thought the responsibilities of women to require the stronger constitution."
It wasn't flattery but truth. Vangelis was a man of action. If there was as task to do, he completed it. And his decisiveness was seen as an asset and commendable quality because of an accident of the sex he was born to. Women were expected to be just as efficient in their own tasks but had to do so while making it seem effortless. Whilst not offending others. Whilst not stepping over their area of responsibility into that of their father or husband. Then their world was turned around and they were told to endure childbirth.
Men were required to be powerful, dominant. Women were required to be enduring.
And in Vangelis opinion, it was easier to knock down a building in a fit of strength; harder still to hold that building on your shoulders permanently but continue on as if it weighed nothing.
When Selene turned to leave - he couldn't blame her, as he was hardly much of a conversationalist and had given her little by way of response to her words - Vangelis halted her for a moment with the simple comment - "No need for an apology." - and then took advantage of her hesitation at his words to take three quick steps to his right and pick up the cloak he had discarded earlier.
When he had first come on deck, Vangelis had felt agitated; still heated and full of adrenaline from the escape. Still angry over the entire thing. Still confused with regards to his feelings surrounding each of the individuals he had helped to rescue - most prominently the one standing before him now - he had paced to burn off the itch beneath his skin. The exercise had warmed him and he had removed the cloak, folding it haphazardly and setting it to one side. He took it up now with large hands, the bones and tendons of his grip obvious in the low lamplight, and shook out the fabric with a single jolt of his hands.
"You are a guest, my lady." He told her, falling back on formal speech for reasons he wasn't sure. "You can go wherever you like on the ship without need for apology."
And, at odds with his formal speech, Vangelis stepped forward without waiting for permission and wrapped the cloak around her shoulders, folding it across her front so that it entirely engulfed her slim frame. It was full length on a man of Vangelis' height and so trailed along the deck at least a foot. But at least she wasn't wearing only that dress on a ship of male sailors.
Letting go as soon as he was assured the garment was in place, Vangelis offered a small curl to one corner of his lips - a shadow of his customary half-smile that appeared almost brittle by comparison - and then took a step back in order to give her her space once more. He turned his frame towards the sea again but his gaze seemed too distracted by the deck beneath his feet, his hands on his hips, his shoulders tense...
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He witnessed as Selene took his advice, breathing calmly and slowly. He watched as her lips turned inward slightly on her exhale, controlling the pace of air. He blinked and looked away, a tightening sensation hitting him just beneath his ribcage. He swallowed and resisted the instinctive desire to rub absent-mindedly at his middle to ease the feeling.
He found himself constantly swaying in his opinion over the woman beside him; unable to settle on a single interpretation of her.
When she was in her element, in the safety of her home and handling herself in society, the eldest Leventi daughter was the epitome of elegance and grace. She was calm, confident and followed the rules of civility to as close to perfection as it was possible for a courtier to attain. When Selene was in such an element, she felt distant but appealing. Like a pretty painting or graceful piece of sculpture; something that you could feel an emotional connection to, simply through the beauty it exuded. But not a personal one. It was the difference between respect and friendship, he decided as he watched her strengthen her resolve against her emotions. He respected the woman who was the role model for her younger sisters. But he wasn't friends with her.
The person that Vangelis had slowly found himself to be friends with was the woman who motivated such behaviour. The Selene that was elegant and graceful could have been so because she was forced to be by her parents. She could have behaved as such because she enjoyed the attention. She might have acted as she did simply to attract a successful husband. They were all valid and common reasons for the young women of the Grecian courts to hold and command themselves in a certain way. But in the time that Vangelis had known her, both in person and through her written hand, he had begun to notice that she didn't fall into any of these motivations. Instead, she influenced her own actions and decisions. She behaved as she did because she, to put it simply, thought it was the right thing to do. Because she wanted to show respect to those she met; because she wanted to set an example for her sisters; because she wished to honour her parents; honour the Gods... the reasons were likely numerous and Vangelis didn't consider himself a skilled-enough judge of others to be able to be arrogant in his assurance that he knew all of them. Selene's motivations were her own. But he had long since decided that they were her own. Not the machinations of others. It was an independence of choice that Vangelis deeply liked. For he found it echoed in himself.
It was true that Vangelis had been given certain expectations from a young age - as he was sure the eldest of five girls would be given in her own childhood - but he had never taken up his mantle as General of the Colchian Armies, nor his birthright as Crown Prince, because he felt that he had been forced to. He had always wanted to be what he was. In order to serve his kingdom and to serve others. His own desires had never seemed to factor into any decisions because they were always synonymous with the duties that were expected of him. Perhaps he had simply been lucky to develop a natural desire to do what was right for his position. Perhaps Selene had been lucky in the same way.
Perhaps he was over-thinking it.
When Selene spoke, her words interrupted the thoughts that were going in circles in his head. She apologised for interrupting him.
His lips parting to tell her that such an interruption was neither an issue nor something to be apologised for, something halted his tongue and he hesitated. It had always been easy to speak with Selene naturally - at least in recent months. But now, he felt awkward in her presence. There was a tension that hadn't been there before. It burned low and quiet in his belly and it tightened his throat. It put up obstacles in his mind that halted his instinctive responses and had him unsure of his answers.
It had been that way whenever he thought about her or talked to her since she had come to him and asked for his help to rescue Olympia. After having decided that he deeply liked the dignity and selfless independence of Selene’s way of living… he hadn’t known how to handle it when that had morphed into a short-sighted desire to save her sister. One that she had asked him to help him. Going against his own responsibilities.
He had been unable to correlate such a request with his respect for her. But her compassion for her sister had tugged at their connection of friendship. Yet, her lack of consideration for his own position had felt hurtful given the friendship that they had developed. But he had admired her determination.
It was a mess of ambivalence that Vangelis was not used to. In his world, things were black and white.
For whatever reason, the same tensions seemed to have taken over Selene as she started again but was unable to complete her sentence. He glanced her way and watched as she struggled, as if her challenges would provide an answer to his own.
'Tis a girl...' she said at last. Clearly not what she had intended to say from the start but it was a conversation starter of sorts.
Nodding a little and offering a "Hmm..." to show that he had heard her, Vangelis wasn't sure how else to respond to it, though. In truth, either sex came with its benefits and drawbacks. A son would have helped in Stephanos reclaiming the throne of Taengea - a throne that Vangelis was fairly certain would now have been pulled from his hands entirely by his uncle back home - but it also placed a larger and brighter target on the back of him and his little family. A girl was perhaps less helpful politically... but she had the chance of being able to live without a bounty on her head. And a daughter this time didn’t mean that Stephanos wouldn’t be able to produce sons in the future. For her sake, Vangelis hoped that Stephanos could love a daughter as he might have a son.
For a moment, Vangelis wondered what it would be like to have children. What if he, as heir to his throne and due to produce the next generation of heirs, had a daughter instead of a son? He tried to imagine his feelings on the subject but the idea of him as a father (despite always being something he knew he would one day have to oblige his kingdom with) was so emotionally foreign to him, it seemed bizarre and he pushed it away.
'I do not know how men can bear the burden of their duties without letting it haunt them.'
Vangelis blinked. He wasn't sure how to respond to that either. The burden of their duties? Strange that she saw the responsibilities of men in such a way. Or perhaps he was strange, as Vangelis realised that he had never seen his duties as a burden. Sometimes they were challenging. At others dangerous. But they were always done with determination and he had never regretted any choices he had made in any of his differing roles. He’d certainly never considered any of them a burden.
He opened his mouth, hesitated, and then pressed on with his natural response, his tone quiet and not necessarily open for response.
"I always thought the responsibilities of women to require the stronger constitution."
It wasn't flattery but truth. Vangelis was a man of action. If there was as task to do, he completed it. And his decisiveness was seen as an asset and commendable quality because of an accident of the sex he was born to. Women were expected to be just as efficient in their own tasks but had to do so while making it seem effortless. Whilst not offending others. Whilst not stepping over their area of responsibility into that of their father or husband. Then their world was turned around and they were told to endure childbirth.
Men were required to be powerful, dominant. Women were required to be enduring.
And in Vangelis opinion, it was easier to knock down a building in a fit of strength; harder still to hold that building on your shoulders permanently but continue on as if it weighed nothing.
When Selene turned to leave - he couldn't blame her, as he was hardly much of a conversationalist and had given her little by way of response to her words - Vangelis halted her for a moment with the simple comment - "No need for an apology." - and then took advantage of her hesitation at his words to take three quick steps to his right and pick up the cloak he had discarded earlier.
When he had first come on deck, Vangelis had felt agitated; still heated and full of adrenaline from the escape. Still angry over the entire thing. Still confused with regards to his feelings surrounding each of the individuals he had helped to rescue - most prominently the one standing before him now - he had paced to burn off the itch beneath his skin. The exercise had warmed him and he had removed the cloak, folding it haphazardly and setting it to one side. He took it up now with large hands, the bones and tendons of his grip obvious in the low lamplight, and shook out the fabric with a single jolt of his hands.
"You are a guest, my lady." He told her, falling back on formal speech for reasons he wasn't sure. "You can go wherever you like on the ship without need for apology."
And, at odds with his formal speech, Vangelis stepped forward without waiting for permission and wrapped the cloak around her shoulders, folding it across her front so that it entirely engulfed her slim frame. It was full length on a man of Vangelis' height and so trailed along the deck at least a foot. But at least she wasn't wearing only that dress on a ship of male sailors.
Letting go as soon as he was assured the garment was in place, Vangelis offered a small curl to one corner of his lips - a shadow of his customary half-smile that appeared almost brittle by comparison - and then took a step back in order to give her her space once more. He turned his frame towards the sea again but his gaze seemed too distracted by the deck beneath his feet, his hands on his hips, his shoulders tense...
He witnessed as Selene took his advice, breathing calmly and slowly. He watched as her lips turned inward slightly on her exhale, controlling the pace of air. He blinked and looked away, a tightening sensation hitting him just beneath his ribcage. He swallowed and resisted the instinctive desire to rub absent-mindedly at his middle to ease the feeling.
He found himself constantly swaying in his opinion over the woman beside him; unable to settle on a single interpretation of her.
When she was in her element, in the safety of her home and handling herself in society, the eldest Leventi daughter was the epitome of elegance and grace. She was calm, confident and followed the rules of civility to as close to perfection as it was possible for a courtier to attain. When Selene was in such an element, she felt distant but appealing. Like a pretty painting or graceful piece of sculpture; something that you could feel an emotional connection to, simply through the beauty it exuded. But not a personal one. It was the difference between respect and friendship, he decided as he watched her strengthen her resolve against her emotions. He respected the woman who was the role model for her younger sisters. But he wasn't friends with her.
The person that Vangelis had slowly found himself to be friends with was the woman who motivated such behaviour. The Selene that was elegant and graceful could have been so because she was forced to be by her parents. She could have behaved as such because she enjoyed the attention. She might have acted as she did simply to attract a successful husband. They were all valid and common reasons for the young women of the Grecian courts to hold and command themselves in a certain way. But in the time that Vangelis had known her, both in person and through her written hand, he had begun to notice that she didn't fall into any of these motivations. Instead, she influenced her own actions and decisions. She behaved as she did because she, to put it simply, thought it was the right thing to do. Because she wanted to show respect to those she met; because she wanted to set an example for her sisters; because she wished to honour her parents; honour the Gods... the reasons were likely numerous and Vangelis didn't consider himself a skilled-enough judge of others to be able to be arrogant in his assurance that he knew all of them. Selene's motivations were her own. But he had long since decided that they were her own. Not the machinations of others. It was an independence of choice that Vangelis deeply liked. For he found it echoed in himself.
It was true that Vangelis had been given certain expectations from a young age - as he was sure the eldest of five girls would be given in her own childhood - but he had never taken up his mantle as General of the Colchian Armies, nor his birthright as Crown Prince, because he felt that he had been forced to. He had always wanted to be what he was. In order to serve his kingdom and to serve others. His own desires had never seemed to factor into any decisions because they were always synonymous with the duties that were expected of him. Perhaps he had simply been lucky to develop a natural desire to do what was right for his position. Perhaps Selene had been lucky in the same way.
Perhaps he was over-thinking it.
When Selene spoke, her words interrupted the thoughts that were going in circles in his head. She apologised for interrupting him.
His lips parting to tell her that such an interruption was neither an issue nor something to be apologised for, something halted his tongue and he hesitated. It had always been easy to speak with Selene naturally - at least in recent months. But now, he felt awkward in her presence. There was a tension that hadn't been there before. It burned low and quiet in his belly and it tightened his throat. It put up obstacles in his mind that halted his instinctive responses and had him unsure of his answers.
It had been that way whenever he thought about her or talked to her since she had come to him and asked for his help to rescue Olympia. After having decided that he deeply liked the dignity and selfless independence of Selene’s way of living… he hadn’t known how to handle it when that had morphed into a short-sighted desire to save her sister. One that she had asked him to help him. Going against his own responsibilities.
He had been unable to correlate such a request with his respect for her. But her compassion for her sister had tugged at their connection of friendship. Yet, her lack of consideration for his own position had felt hurtful given the friendship that they had developed. But he had admired her determination.
It was a mess of ambivalence that Vangelis was not used to. In his world, things were black and white.
For whatever reason, the same tensions seemed to have taken over Selene as she started again but was unable to complete her sentence. He glanced her way and watched as she struggled, as if her challenges would provide an answer to his own.
'Tis a girl...' she said at last. Clearly not what she had intended to say from the start but it was a conversation starter of sorts.
Nodding a little and offering a "Hmm..." to show that he had heard her, Vangelis wasn't sure how else to respond to it, though. In truth, either sex came with its benefits and drawbacks. A son would have helped in Stephanos reclaiming the throne of Taengea - a throne that Vangelis was fairly certain would now have been pulled from his hands entirely by his uncle back home - but it also placed a larger and brighter target on the back of him and his little family. A girl was perhaps less helpful politically... but she had the chance of being able to live without a bounty on her head. And a daughter this time didn’t mean that Stephanos wouldn’t be able to produce sons in the future. For her sake, Vangelis hoped that Stephanos could love a daughter as he might have a son.
For a moment, Vangelis wondered what it would be like to have children. What if he, as heir to his throne and due to produce the next generation of heirs, had a daughter instead of a son? He tried to imagine his feelings on the subject but the idea of him as a father (despite always being something he knew he would one day have to oblige his kingdom with) was so emotionally foreign to him, it seemed bizarre and he pushed it away.
'I do not know how men can bear the burden of their duties without letting it haunt them.'
Vangelis blinked. He wasn't sure how to respond to that either. The burden of their duties? Strange that she saw the responsibilities of men in such a way. Or perhaps he was strange, as Vangelis realised that he had never seen his duties as a burden. Sometimes they were challenging. At others dangerous. But they were always done with determination and he had never regretted any choices he had made in any of his differing roles. He’d certainly never considered any of them a burden.
He opened his mouth, hesitated, and then pressed on with his natural response, his tone quiet and not necessarily open for response.
"I always thought the responsibilities of women to require the stronger constitution."
It wasn't flattery but truth. Vangelis was a man of action. If there was as task to do, he completed it. And his decisiveness was seen as an asset and commendable quality because of an accident of the sex he was born to. Women were expected to be just as efficient in their own tasks but had to do so while making it seem effortless. Whilst not offending others. Whilst not stepping over their area of responsibility into that of their father or husband. Then their world was turned around and they were told to endure childbirth.
Men were required to be powerful, dominant. Women were required to be enduring.
And in Vangelis opinion, it was easier to knock down a building in a fit of strength; harder still to hold that building on your shoulders permanently but continue on as if it weighed nothing.
When Selene turned to leave - he couldn't blame her, as he was hardly much of a conversationalist and had given her little by way of response to her words - Vangelis halted her for a moment with the simple comment - "No need for an apology." - and then took advantage of her hesitation at his words to take three quick steps to his right and pick up the cloak he had discarded earlier.
When he had first come on deck, Vangelis had felt agitated; still heated and full of adrenaline from the escape. Still angry over the entire thing. Still confused with regards to his feelings surrounding each of the individuals he had helped to rescue - most prominently the one standing before him now - he had paced to burn off the itch beneath his skin. The exercise had warmed him and he had removed the cloak, folding it haphazardly and setting it to one side. He took it up now with large hands, the bones and tendons of his grip obvious in the low lamplight, and shook out the fabric with a single jolt of his hands.
"You are a guest, my lady." He told her, falling back on formal speech for reasons he wasn't sure. "You can go wherever you like on the ship without need for apology."
And, at odds with his formal speech, Vangelis stepped forward without waiting for permission and wrapped the cloak around her shoulders, folding it across her front so that it entirely engulfed her slim frame. It was full length on a man of Vangelis' height and so trailed along the deck at least a foot. But at least she wasn't wearing only that dress on a ship of male sailors.
Letting go as soon as he was assured the garment was in place, Vangelis offered a small curl to one corner of his lips - a shadow of his customary half-smile that appeared almost brittle by comparison - and then took a step back in order to give her her space once more. He turned his frame towards the sea again but his gaze seemed too distracted by the deck beneath his feet, his hands on his hips, his shoulders tense...
Selene has been aware of the reputation of the man in front of her. Emilia had tried time and time again to sway her thoughts in a more ‘sensible’ direction. He was a ruthless man, she had been warned. And that he was the very embodiment of Colchis, through and through.
Perhaps it had everything to do with the initial circumstances of their meeting. A simple act, what she viewed as a heroic one, saved her sister from death. And not only had she witnessed it, he had continued to offer her protection and safety as she fled the chaos. But in that moment, a connection had formed. She had initially thought to simply thank him for his actions, only to find instead a worthy mind to correspond with through letters. And each letter seemed to reveal more and more of the man behind the reputation. That man, she decided, was easy to befriend.
Where that friendship had turned into something more in her mind, she couldn’t decipher.
Selene had always respected his sense of duty, had always felt it akin to her own, in their roles as the eldest of their families. She was expected to be an example, to marry well and secure the family’s position in society. In that expectation, she didn’t find it much of a burden. In was simply a part of herself, as it grew to form the very core of her beliefs from an incredibly young age. It was something she was sure he had felt as well. The massacre at the circus helped her come to terms with what had always been labeled as ambition to others.
She hadn’t wanted a crown because she wanted to be the Queen. Her assumed marriage to Zacharias would secure her family’s position, which would complete the one task her family had always told her was most important. She realized that she didn’t want the burden of a crown simply to fulfill that. No, she wanted to find happiness, to find something real. She was worthy of a king, but that wasn’t driving her as it had before. Spending time in Colchis, where duty never seems an obligation, almost grounded her more than she expected. The social life of Taengea was what she had grown up with, and she couldn’t help but enjoy it. But she realized, especially now, that it was a culture of farce.
And now, after having come to terms with the truth, she found herself more and more drawn to the refreshing honesty of the Colchian people.
Glancing over at him, she hated the hesitation she could see in him. There had been a time when the conversation would have flowed with ease. Now, because of her reckless affection for her and the growing adoration for him, she had altered that. She didn’t expect much at his acknowledgment of the baby, but was shocked by the sudden image that overtook her mind— Vangelis and a small bundle of dark curls wrapped in a blanket, him pressing and affectionate kiss to the forehead. It caused her stomach to clench down tightly the moment her heart unraveled. She couldn’t help but think that he would be a stern but loving father.
And his statement only solidified that.
Gods, of course he would openly value women. That one statement alone, said with such certainty and conviction, made her throat tight with the knowledge that he wouldn’t care if he had a girl first. For him, women were strong and had worth as more than just a pretty face. When marriage was the only focus of any single female, it was impossible for that woman to feel like she had any other purpose in the world. But as he had made it clear that he cared for her for more than just her eligibility, Selene was quick to find yet another reason to care for him. Even that was not a game to him, as court was in Taengea. She knew he only ever spoke honesty, even to her.
She was not mad her had heard her. No, she was frustrated that he countered her. It wasn’t flattery and she knew it.
His footfall in her retreat caused her to stop and turn. Just as suddenly as she had distanced herself from him, Vangelis was within inches of her once more. Her breath hitched in her throat as she was close enough to count each lash. She was certain that even in the darkness, she could see every contrasting color in his eyes. As the thick material of his cloak was set on her shoulders, Selene found herself suddenly too warm. He turned back to his position at the rail, and she found herself pulling the edges tightly around her.
As if it was him embracing her.
The smell of him was overwhelming, completely surrounding her. Her head tilted to the side, to take inhale deeply the lingering scent of him. And she found it both comforting and intoxicating. Her cheeks flushed as she realized what she was doing, glad she hadn’t been caught in the act.
“That may be, in some cases. But having to weigh the importance of one life over another? I did not expect to have to know that responsibility myself.” It was obvious that she understood the gravity of what she had asked him to do. “I am humbled by it. And by you, Vangelis. It is easy, upon reflection, to realize that my request for your assistance was highly dangerous. And it was an insult to our friendship to ask you to risk everything.” She took a step closer, needing him to see the sincerity in her eyes. “I am so sorry I put you in that position. My selfish weakness…” Again, her head shook. “I will forever be grateful for your success tonight. And I shall never forget the lesson that came with it.”
She faced him fully, head bowed in humility. “Thank you Vangelis. Truly. And I hope to get the opportunity to atone for my mistakes.”
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Selene has been aware of the reputation of the man in front of her. Emilia had tried time and time again to sway her thoughts in a more ‘sensible’ direction. He was a ruthless man, she had been warned. And that he was the very embodiment of Colchis, through and through.
Perhaps it had everything to do with the initial circumstances of their meeting. A simple act, what she viewed as a heroic one, saved her sister from death. And not only had she witnessed it, he had continued to offer her protection and safety as she fled the chaos. But in that moment, a connection had formed. She had initially thought to simply thank him for his actions, only to find instead a worthy mind to correspond with through letters. And each letter seemed to reveal more and more of the man behind the reputation. That man, she decided, was easy to befriend.
Where that friendship had turned into something more in her mind, she couldn’t decipher.
Selene had always respected his sense of duty, had always felt it akin to her own, in their roles as the eldest of their families. She was expected to be an example, to marry well and secure the family’s position in society. In that expectation, she didn’t find it much of a burden. In was simply a part of herself, as it grew to form the very core of her beliefs from an incredibly young age. It was something she was sure he had felt as well. The massacre at the circus helped her come to terms with what had always been labeled as ambition to others.
She hadn’t wanted a crown because she wanted to be the Queen. Her assumed marriage to Zacharias would secure her family’s position, which would complete the one task her family had always told her was most important. She realized that she didn’t want the burden of a crown simply to fulfill that. No, she wanted to find happiness, to find something real. She was worthy of a king, but that wasn’t driving her as it had before. Spending time in Colchis, where duty never seems an obligation, almost grounded her more than she expected. The social life of Taengea was what she had grown up with, and she couldn’t help but enjoy it. But she realized, especially now, that it was a culture of farce.
And now, after having come to terms with the truth, she found herself more and more drawn to the refreshing honesty of the Colchian people.
Glancing over at him, she hated the hesitation she could see in him. There had been a time when the conversation would have flowed with ease. Now, because of her reckless affection for her and the growing adoration for him, she had altered that. She didn’t expect much at his acknowledgment of the baby, but was shocked by the sudden image that overtook her mind— Vangelis and a small bundle of dark curls wrapped in a blanket, him pressing and affectionate kiss to the forehead. It caused her stomach to clench down tightly the moment her heart unraveled. She couldn’t help but think that he would be a stern but loving father.
And his statement only solidified that.
Gods, of course he would openly value women. That one statement alone, said with such certainty and conviction, made her throat tight with the knowledge that he wouldn’t care if he had a girl first. For him, women were strong and had worth as more than just a pretty face. When marriage was the only focus of any single female, it was impossible for that woman to feel like she had any other purpose in the world. But as he had made it clear that he cared for her for more than just her eligibility, Selene was quick to find yet another reason to care for him. Even that was not a game to him, as court was in Taengea. She knew he only ever spoke honesty, even to her.
She was not mad her had heard her. No, she was frustrated that he countered her. It wasn’t flattery and she knew it.
His footfall in her retreat caused her to stop and turn. Just as suddenly as she had distanced herself from him, Vangelis was within inches of her once more. Her breath hitched in her throat as she was close enough to count each lash. She was certain that even in the darkness, she could see every contrasting color in his eyes. As the thick material of his cloak was set on her shoulders, Selene found herself suddenly too warm. He turned back to his position at the rail, and she found herself pulling the edges tightly around her.
As if it was him embracing her.
The smell of him was overwhelming, completely surrounding her. Her head tilted to the side, to take inhale deeply the lingering scent of him. And she found it both comforting and intoxicating. Her cheeks flushed as she realized what she was doing, glad she hadn’t been caught in the act.
“That may be, in some cases. But having to weigh the importance of one life over another? I did not expect to have to know that responsibility myself.” It was obvious that she understood the gravity of what she had asked him to do. “I am humbled by it. And by you, Vangelis. It is easy, upon reflection, to realize that my request for your assistance was highly dangerous. And it was an insult to our friendship to ask you to risk everything.” She took a step closer, needing him to see the sincerity in her eyes. “I am so sorry I put you in that position. My selfish weakness…” Again, her head shook. “I will forever be grateful for your success tonight. And I shall never forget the lesson that came with it.”
She faced him fully, head bowed in humility. “Thank you Vangelis. Truly. And I hope to get the opportunity to atone for my mistakes.”
Selene has been aware of the reputation of the man in front of her. Emilia had tried time and time again to sway her thoughts in a more ‘sensible’ direction. He was a ruthless man, she had been warned. And that he was the very embodiment of Colchis, through and through.
Perhaps it had everything to do with the initial circumstances of their meeting. A simple act, what she viewed as a heroic one, saved her sister from death. And not only had she witnessed it, he had continued to offer her protection and safety as she fled the chaos. But in that moment, a connection had formed. She had initially thought to simply thank him for his actions, only to find instead a worthy mind to correspond with through letters. And each letter seemed to reveal more and more of the man behind the reputation. That man, she decided, was easy to befriend.
Where that friendship had turned into something more in her mind, she couldn’t decipher.
Selene had always respected his sense of duty, had always felt it akin to her own, in their roles as the eldest of their families. She was expected to be an example, to marry well and secure the family’s position in society. In that expectation, she didn’t find it much of a burden. In was simply a part of herself, as it grew to form the very core of her beliefs from an incredibly young age. It was something she was sure he had felt as well. The massacre at the circus helped her come to terms with what had always been labeled as ambition to others.
She hadn’t wanted a crown because she wanted to be the Queen. Her assumed marriage to Zacharias would secure her family’s position, which would complete the one task her family had always told her was most important. She realized that she didn’t want the burden of a crown simply to fulfill that. No, she wanted to find happiness, to find something real. She was worthy of a king, but that wasn’t driving her as it had before. Spending time in Colchis, where duty never seems an obligation, almost grounded her more than she expected. The social life of Taengea was what she had grown up with, and she couldn’t help but enjoy it. But she realized, especially now, that it was a culture of farce.
And now, after having come to terms with the truth, she found herself more and more drawn to the refreshing honesty of the Colchian people.
Glancing over at him, she hated the hesitation she could see in him. There had been a time when the conversation would have flowed with ease. Now, because of her reckless affection for her and the growing adoration for him, she had altered that. She didn’t expect much at his acknowledgment of the baby, but was shocked by the sudden image that overtook her mind— Vangelis and a small bundle of dark curls wrapped in a blanket, him pressing and affectionate kiss to the forehead. It caused her stomach to clench down tightly the moment her heart unraveled. She couldn’t help but think that he would be a stern but loving father.
And his statement only solidified that.
Gods, of course he would openly value women. That one statement alone, said with such certainty and conviction, made her throat tight with the knowledge that he wouldn’t care if he had a girl first. For him, women were strong and had worth as more than just a pretty face. When marriage was the only focus of any single female, it was impossible for that woman to feel like she had any other purpose in the world. But as he had made it clear that he cared for her for more than just her eligibility, Selene was quick to find yet another reason to care for him. Even that was not a game to him, as court was in Taengea. She knew he only ever spoke honesty, even to her.
She was not mad her had heard her. No, she was frustrated that he countered her. It wasn’t flattery and she knew it.
His footfall in her retreat caused her to stop and turn. Just as suddenly as she had distanced herself from him, Vangelis was within inches of her once more. Her breath hitched in her throat as she was close enough to count each lash. She was certain that even in the darkness, she could see every contrasting color in his eyes. As the thick material of his cloak was set on her shoulders, Selene found herself suddenly too warm. He turned back to his position at the rail, and she found herself pulling the edges tightly around her.
As if it was him embracing her.
The smell of him was overwhelming, completely surrounding her. Her head tilted to the side, to take inhale deeply the lingering scent of him. And she found it both comforting and intoxicating. Her cheeks flushed as she realized what she was doing, glad she hadn’t been caught in the act.
“That may be, in some cases. But having to weigh the importance of one life over another? I did not expect to have to know that responsibility myself.” It was obvious that she understood the gravity of what she had asked him to do. “I am humbled by it. And by you, Vangelis. It is easy, upon reflection, to realize that my request for your assistance was highly dangerous. And it was an insult to our friendship to ask you to risk everything.” She took a step closer, needing him to see the sincerity in her eyes. “I am so sorry I put you in that position. My selfish weakness…” Again, her head shook. “I will forever be grateful for your success tonight. And I shall never forget the lesson that came with it.”
She faced him fully, head bowed in humility. “Thank you Vangelis. Truly. And I hope to get the opportunity to atone for my mistakes.”
Vangelis didn't really know what to say...
When Selene had first come to him with her request for help - to aid in rescuing her sister from the royal palati in order for her and her husband and child to escape a pre-planned death - Vangelis had understood.
Compassion for others wasn't something he was particularly skilled at, but it was something beyond vital to the world in general. Especially when it came to one's family. Why else would a man fight wars and end lives if not for the protection of those standing behind him?
Well, there were some men who might - simply for the joy of committing cruelty - but Vangelis was not one of them.
So, while compassion and sensitivity were not his forte, Vangelis could at least appreciate them and see them as the significant elements of humanity that they were. And Selene coming to him to seek help for her sister was nothing more than that. He had understood such a drive and even respected her for it.
What had turned the request hurtful - what had made it take a line it should not have taken - was her insistence after he had explained his reasoning for not helping. He had thought that he had made it clear to her that, were he a free agent - an individual man without loyalties or responsibilities, he would have been eager to aid in the rescue she wanted to orchestrate. His sense of justice had clamoured that he help Stephanos, his wife and unborn child. But he wasn't that man. He was crown prince of Colchis. A kingdom that might have been far away at the time but one that he adored as much as Selene loved her home. And to act would have been to put all of those people - his loyal subjects - at risk.
It was the fact that she had not understood that, that had made him angry. It was the fact that her compassion for her sister had overridden her logical sense of understanding; that she had basically sentenced every man she had inebriated in their attempt to escape to death or flogging for poor performance in his duties. That she hadn't thought beyond her own familial loyalties.
And while that loyalty in itself was never something to be condemned, the lack of logic to balance it had shown her inexperience and her immaturity. And Vangelis had been disappointed in both. And hurt that she had not trusted him enough to be able to see that for herself when he had tried to point it out.
Not one to hold a grudge or linger on such feelings, Vangelis had simply put his emotions aside and done what he believed to be right in such a circumstance. Held to it by guilt when Selene had asked him what he would have done if Olympia had been Athanasia, he had been unable to avoid finding a solution.
The prompt of imagining Asia in the position of the trapped Queen had been the jolt his mind had needed to think a little more recklessly of plans that might work in either direction - plans that he wouldn't have even considered until he was as desperate as he would have been to free his own sister. It had sparked an idea that he then hadn't been able to walk away from with a clear conscience.
He wasn't sure, at that point, whether he was angry with Selene for guilting him into the decision, or at himself for not having come up with it until it was (in his mind's eye) a risk to his own kin. It shouldn't have mattered who the victim of injustice was, if he had the ability to set it right.
Then again... he wouldn't have taken the steps he had for just anyone... He had treated Olympia as if she were his own sister. At Selene's request. Because Selene had asked him.
He didn't want to analyse too closely what that meant but unfortunately Vangelis' mind was too sharp in its decisions, too quick to form his very opinionated judgements for him to be able to escape the truth that was starting to dawn on him...
That he could no longer count Selene as solely a friend.
Which only served to make him frustrated and confused on top of angry.
During the rescue itself, Vangelis had not been able to keep such distracting thoughts at bay by keeping Selene as far from his mind as possible - hard to do when she was one of those he had been attempting to sneak out of the palace. So, he had given her the cold shoulder, avoided looking at her where he could and tried to focus entirely on the King and Queen.
Now, she stood before him, had stripped herself down - which was only serving to have those "more than a friend" thoughts rise quickly to the surface - and was apologising with an insight he hadn't expected.
How was he supposed to respond to that?
In a few succinct phrases of understanding and contrition, Selene had managed to pinpoint her own inexperience, her self-centred view of the situation, the fact that she had exploited their friendship in her desperation... She had nailed every element of the circumstances that had been burning him at the edges and apologised for them with genuine, calm and thoughtful consideration.
Blinking down at her for a moment, Vangelis exhaled and felt a large amount of the tension he held towards her leave his body.
A man slow to anger or irritate, Vangelis had a very thick skin. It was rare that someone could touch him in a manner that was hurtful. And, normally, on the occasions that it did happen, that harm was done with deliberate intent - someone against Colchis, against the crown, or who just had a personal antagonism towards him. So, they were never forgiven. Vangelis was neither petty nor vengeful, so he didn't take his grudges into the realm of retribution but he simply never trusted that person again or allowed them into his personal confidence.
But this particular circumstance had happened through accident. Through lack of understanding and a moment of familial adoration that blocked out anything else. And it had been apologised for.
So, Vangelis was stuck without knowing what to do or say.
In the end, his natural instincts took over and he went with his gut. He fell back on propriety and manners and the fact that Selene was a woman offering him contrition. He waved a hand very slightly, as if to discount her apologies and went to stand with his forearms once again braced on the wall of the ship.
"Compassion is never something to apologise for." He told her, glancing over his shoulder at her, before speaking once more to the waves and darkness out there in the night. "You love your sister and you sought a way to help her." His words came out as if he were trying to convince himself as well as she. "I can hardly chastise you for being ignorant of the political and militant ramifications. I spend most of my life fighting so that civilians don't ever have to know the darker consequences of certain actions." He shrugged. "I can hardly now be angry at you for not being more informed."
But I can be angry for you not trusting in me, who is more informed. He thought to himself. He glanced down at his hands that were twisted together casually over the edge of the ship. It wasn't his place to pout that their friendship meant enough to her to have asked him for aid but not enough for her to have trusted his opinion on it.
And she had apologised.
Annoyed at himself for the childish sense of hurt that was turning him grumpy, he shrugged his shoulders a little out of sorts, as if to try and shrug away the tension and awkwardness of the conversation.
"Besides... it's hardly worth discussing now." He insisted. "What is done, is done and we are all away safely. We found a way, in the end." He said, attempting to lighten his tone so that she would feel less awkward with him.
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Vangelis didn't really know what to say...
When Selene had first come to him with her request for help - to aid in rescuing her sister from the royal palati in order for her and her husband and child to escape a pre-planned death - Vangelis had understood.
Compassion for others wasn't something he was particularly skilled at, but it was something beyond vital to the world in general. Especially when it came to one's family. Why else would a man fight wars and end lives if not for the protection of those standing behind him?
Well, there were some men who might - simply for the joy of committing cruelty - but Vangelis was not one of them.
So, while compassion and sensitivity were not his forte, Vangelis could at least appreciate them and see them as the significant elements of humanity that they were. And Selene coming to him to seek help for her sister was nothing more than that. He had understood such a drive and even respected her for it.
What had turned the request hurtful - what had made it take a line it should not have taken - was her insistence after he had explained his reasoning for not helping. He had thought that he had made it clear to her that, were he a free agent - an individual man without loyalties or responsibilities, he would have been eager to aid in the rescue she wanted to orchestrate. His sense of justice had clamoured that he help Stephanos, his wife and unborn child. But he wasn't that man. He was crown prince of Colchis. A kingdom that might have been far away at the time but one that he adored as much as Selene loved her home. And to act would have been to put all of those people - his loyal subjects - at risk.
It was the fact that she had not understood that, that had made him angry. It was the fact that her compassion for her sister had overridden her logical sense of understanding; that she had basically sentenced every man she had inebriated in their attempt to escape to death or flogging for poor performance in his duties. That she hadn't thought beyond her own familial loyalties.
And while that loyalty in itself was never something to be condemned, the lack of logic to balance it had shown her inexperience and her immaturity. And Vangelis had been disappointed in both. And hurt that she had not trusted him enough to be able to see that for herself when he had tried to point it out.
Not one to hold a grudge or linger on such feelings, Vangelis had simply put his emotions aside and done what he believed to be right in such a circumstance. Held to it by guilt when Selene had asked him what he would have done if Olympia had been Athanasia, he had been unable to avoid finding a solution.
The prompt of imagining Asia in the position of the trapped Queen had been the jolt his mind had needed to think a little more recklessly of plans that might work in either direction - plans that he wouldn't have even considered until he was as desperate as he would have been to free his own sister. It had sparked an idea that he then hadn't been able to walk away from with a clear conscience.
He wasn't sure, at that point, whether he was angry with Selene for guilting him into the decision, or at himself for not having come up with it until it was (in his mind's eye) a risk to his own kin. It shouldn't have mattered who the victim of injustice was, if he had the ability to set it right.
Then again... he wouldn't have taken the steps he had for just anyone... He had treated Olympia as if she were his own sister. At Selene's request. Because Selene had asked him.
He didn't want to analyse too closely what that meant but unfortunately Vangelis' mind was too sharp in its decisions, too quick to form his very opinionated judgements for him to be able to escape the truth that was starting to dawn on him...
That he could no longer count Selene as solely a friend.
Which only served to make him frustrated and confused on top of angry.
During the rescue itself, Vangelis had not been able to keep such distracting thoughts at bay by keeping Selene as far from his mind as possible - hard to do when she was one of those he had been attempting to sneak out of the palace. So, he had given her the cold shoulder, avoided looking at her where he could and tried to focus entirely on the King and Queen.
Now, she stood before him, had stripped herself down - which was only serving to have those "more than a friend" thoughts rise quickly to the surface - and was apologising with an insight he hadn't expected.
How was he supposed to respond to that?
In a few succinct phrases of understanding and contrition, Selene had managed to pinpoint her own inexperience, her self-centred view of the situation, the fact that she had exploited their friendship in her desperation... She had nailed every element of the circumstances that had been burning him at the edges and apologised for them with genuine, calm and thoughtful consideration.
Blinking down at her for a moment, Vangelis exhaled and felt a large amount of the tension he held towards her leave his body.
A man slow to anger or irritate, Vangelis had a very thick skin. It was rare that someone could touch him in a manner that was hurtful. And, normally, on the occasions that it did happen, that harm was done with deliberate intent - someone against Colchis, against the crown, or who just had a personal antagonism towards him. So, they were never forgiven. Vangelis was neither petty nor vengeful, so he didn't take his grudges into the realm of retribution but he simply never trusted that person again or allowed them into his personal confidence.
But this particular circumstance had happened through accident. Through lack of understanding and a moment of familial adoration that blocked out anything else. And it had been apologised for.
So, Vangelis was stuck without knowing what to do or say.
In the end, his natural instincts took over and he went with his gut. He fell back on propriety and manners and the fact that Selene was a woman offering him contrition. He waved a hand very slightly, as if to discount her apologies and went to stand with his forearms once again braced on the wall of the ship.
"Compassion is never something to apologise for." He told her, glancing over his shoulder at her, before speaking once more to the waves and darkness out there in the night. "You love your sister and you sought a way to help her." His words came out as if he were trying to convince himself as well as she. "I can hardly chastise you for being ignorant of the political and militant ramifications. I spend most of my life fighting so that civilians don't ever have to know the darker consequences of certain actions." He shrugged. "I can hardly now be angry at you for not being more informed."
But I can be angry for you not trusting in me, who is more informed. He thought to himself. He glanced down at his hands that were twisted together casually over the edge of the ship. It wasn't his place to pout that their friendship meant enough to her to have asked him for aid but not enough for her to have trusted his opinion on it.
And she had apologised.
Annoyed at himself for the childish sense of hurt that was turning him grumpy, he shrugged his shoulders a little out of sorts, as if to try and shrug away the tension and awkwardness of the conversation.
"Besides... it's hardly worth discussing now." He insisted. "What is done, is done and we are all away safely. We found a way, in the end." He said, attempting to lighten his tone so that she would feel less awkward with him.
Vangelis didn't really know what to say...
When Selene had first come to him with her request for help - to aid in rescuing her sister from the royal palati in order for her and her husband and child to escape a pre-planned death - Vangelis had understood.
Compassion for others wasn't something he was particularly skilled at, but it was something beyond vital to the world in general. Especially when it came to one's family. Why else would a man fight wars and end lives if not for the protection of those standing behind him?
Well, there were some men who might - simply for the joy of committing cruelty - but Vangelis was not one of them.
So, while compassion and sensitivity were not his forte, Vangelis could at least appreciate them and see them as the significant elements of humanity that they were. And Selene coming to him to seek help for her sister was nothing more than that. He had understood such a drive and even respected her for it.
What had turned the request hurtful - what had made it take a line it should not have taken - was her insistence after he had explained his reasoning for not helping. He had thought that he had made it clear to her that, were he a free agent - an individual man without loyalties or responsibilities, he would have been eager to aid in the rescue she wanted to orchestrate. His sense of justice had clamoured that he help Stephanos, his wife and unborn child. But he wasn't that man. He was crown prince of Colchis. A kingdom that might have been far away at the time but one that he adored as much as Selene loved her home. And to act would have been to put all of those people - his loyal subjects - at risk.
It was the fact that she had not understood that, that had made him angry. It was the fact that her compassion for her sister had overridden her logical sense of understanding; that she had basically sentenced every man she had inebriated in their attempt to escape to death or flogging for poor performance in his duties. That she hadn't thought beyond her own familial loyalties.
And while that loyalty in itself was never something to be condemned, the lack of logic to balance it had shown her inexperience and her immaturity. And Vangelis had been disappointed in both. And hurt that she had not trusted him enough to be able to see that for herself when he had tried to point it out.
Not one to hold a grudge or linger on such feelings, Vangelis had simply put his emotions aside and done what he believed to be right in such a circumstance. Held to it by guilt when Selene had asked him what he would have done if Olympia had been Athanasia, he had been unable to avoid finding a solution.
The prompt of imagining Asia in the position of the trapped Queen had been the jolt his mind had needed to think a little more recklessly of plans that might work in either direction - plans that he wouldn't have even considered until he was as desperate as he would have been to free his own sister. It had sparked an idea that he then hadn't been able to walk away from with a clear conscience.
He wasn't sure, at that point, whether he was angry with Selene for guilting him into the decision, or at himself for not having come up with it until it was (in his mind's eye) a risk to his own kin. It shouldn't have mattered who the victim of injustice was, if he had the ability to set it right.
Then again... he wouldn't have taken the steps he had for just anyone... He had treated Olympia as if she were his own sister. At Selene's request. Because Selene had asked him.
He didn't want to analyse too closely what that meant but unfortunately Vangelis' mind was too sharp in its decisions, too quick to form his very opinionated judgements for him to be able to escape the truth that was starting to dawn on him...
That he could no longer count Selene as solely a friend.
Which only served to make him frustrated and confused on top of angry.
During the rescue itself, Vangelis had not been able to keep such distracting thoughts at bay by keeping Selene as far from his mind as possible - hard to do when she was one of those he had been attempting to sneak out of the palace. So, he had given her the cold shoulder, avoided looking at her where he could and tried to focus entirely on the King and Queen.
Now, she stood before him, had stripped herself down - which was only serving to have those "more than a friend" thoughts rise quickly to the surface - and was apologising with an insight he hadn't expected.
How was he supposed to respond to that?
In a few succinct phrases of understanding and contrition, Selene had managed to pinpoint her own inexperience, her self-centred view of the situation, the fact that she had exploited their friendship in her desperation... She had nailed every element of the circumstances that had been burning him at the edges and apologised for them with genuine, calm and thoughtful consideration.
Blinking down at her for a moment, Vangelis exhaled and felt a large amount of the tension he held towards her leave his body.
A man slow to anger or irritate, Vangelis had a very thick skin. It was rare that someone could touch him in a manner that was hurtful. And, normally, on the occasions that it did happen, that harm was done with deliberate intent - someone against Colchis, against the crown, or who just had a personal antagonism towards him. So, they were never forgiven. Vangelis was neither petty nor vengeful, so he didn't take his grudges into the realm of retribution but he simply never trusted that person again or allowed them into his personal confidence.
But this particular circumstance had happened through accident. Through lack of understanding and a moment of familial adoration that blocked out anything else. And it had been apologised for.
So, Vangelis was stuck without knowing what to do or say.
In the end, his natural instincts took over and he went with his gut. He fell back on propriety and manners and the fact that Selene was a woman offering him contrition. He waved a hand very slightly, as if to discount her apologies and went to stand with his forearms once again braced on the wall of the ship.
"Compassion is never something to apologise for." He told her, glancing over his shoulder at her, before speaking once more to the waves and darkness out there in the night. "You love your sister and you sought a way to help her." His words came out as if he were trying to convince himself as well as she. "I can hardly chastise you for being ignorant of the political and militant ramifications. I spend most of my life fighting so that civilians don't ever have to know the darker consequences of certain actions." He shrugged. "I can hardly now be angry at you for not being more informed."
But I can be angry for you not trusting in me, who is more informed. He thought to himself. He glanced down at his hands that were twisted together casually over the edge of the ship. It wasn't his place to pout that their friendship meant enough to her to have asked him for aid but not enough for her to have trusted his opinion on it.
And she had apologised.
Annoyed at himself for the childish sense of hurt that was turning him grumpy, he shrugged his shoulders a little out of sorts, as if to try and shrug away the tension and awkwardness of the conversation.
"Besides... it's hardly worth discussing now." He insisted. "What is done, is done and we are all away safely. We found a way, in the end." He said, attempting to lighten his tone so that she would feel less awkward with him.
She had gone to him because she hadn’t a clue on who else to involve in the matter. His military training and discreet manner had made him the obvious choice for something so dangerous. And she trusted him above all others, for he had never given her a reason not to.
But something she had never faced within herself was her stubbornness with injustice. So while he had told her that what she was trying to do was not only physically dangerous, but politically, Selene hadn’t thought of that to be a problem. In her naive mind, the death of both her sister and the King would cause more political issues. Not allowing them a trial was wrong, plain and simple. If Stephanos was found guilty, that was one thing. But he should have the chance to prove his innocence.
In her mind, the ramifications of not being able to do that seemed far worse for everyone involved. But her own exposure to the true politics of Greece were limited by her gender. She didn’t sit in on Senate meetings, or keep the company of the decision makers. It was apparent that she had been raised to be a Queen who was seen and not heard. And it was only since meeting Vangelis did she realize that her voice could matter.
And she tested it with a friend.
She had used anything and everything to gain his assistance, and in the end conjuring up an image of his sister in the same circumstances seemed to be what did the trick. In the heat of the moment, she carried no regret in her actions. But now, she was feeling the weight of that action. And could tell by his stance and mien that once again, their relationship had changed.
When it came to him, it just appeared that she could do nothing right.
She shook her head, “Compassion, in the face of reason, should always be apologized for. Regardless of the intent, my compassion would have been for nothing if something happened to you.” She stopped staring at her hands, focusing on him. “I used our friendship for personal gain, without thought…” She sighed, “Regardless of your title or station, I should not have used the bond we have created as leverage to gain your action. I would have never forgiven myself, had the cost of Pia and the baby’s life been yours.”
Instead, it had cost others their lives. And she would have to spend a lifetime dealing with what the cost had been. “You do not believe in regret, but I cannot help that I do regret what I did. But it will keep my mindful in the future. I shall try to do better.”
She turned, looking out to sea with a frustrated sigh. “I feel as though I have done nothing right since returning home. The last time I felt sure of myself was in Colchis. Perhaps its shores will bring me clarity once more.” She said with hope, unsure of herself once again.
Silence washed over them, it not as uncomfortable as she thought it would be.
She glanced over to him, wondering if they would ever get back to the comfortable friendship they once had. Because in the past few weeks, she had done nothing but screw it up.
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She had gone to him because she hadn’t a clue on who else to involve in the matter. His military training and discreet manner had made him the obvious choice for something so dangerous. And she trusted him above all others, for he had never given her a reason not to.
But something she had never faced within herself was her stubbornness with injustice. So while he had told her that what she was trying to do was not only physically dangerous, but politically, Selene hadn’t thought of that to be a problem. In her naive mind, the death of both her sister and the King would cause more political issues. Not allowing them a trial was wrong, plain and simple. If Stephanos was found guilty, that was one thing. But he should have the chance to prove his innocence.
In her mind, the ramifications of not being able to do that seemed far worse for everyone involved. But her own exposure to the true politics of Greece were limited by her gender. She didn’t sit in on Senate meetings, or keep the company of the decision makers. It was apparent that she had been raised to be a Queen who was seen and not heard. And it was only since meeting Vangelis did she realize that her voice could matter.
And she tested it with a friend.
She had used anything and everything to gain his assistance, and in the end conjuring up an image of his sister in the same circumstances seemed to be what did the trick. In the heat of the moment, she carried no regret in her actions. But now, she was feeling the weight of that action. And could tell by his stance and mien that once again, their relationship had changed.
When it came to him, it just appeared that she could do nothing right.
She shook her head, “Compassion, in the face of reason, should always be apologized for. Regardless of the intent, my compassion would have been for nothing if something happened to you.” She stopped staring at her hands, focusing on him. “I used our friendship for personal gain, without thought…” She sighed, “Regardless of your title or station, I should not have used the bond we have created as leverage to gain your action. I would have never forgiven myself, had the cost of Pia and the baby’s life been yours.”
Instead, it had cost others their lives. And she would have to spend a lifetime dealing with what the cost had been. “You do not believe in regret, but I cannot help that I do regret what I did. But it will keep my mindful in the future. I shall try to do better.”
She turned, looking out to sea with a frustrated sigh. “I feel as though I have done nothing right since returning home. The last time I felt sure of myself was in Colchis. Perhaps its shores will bring me clarity once more.” She said with hope, unsure of herself once again.
Silence washed over them, it not as uncomfortable as she thought it would be.
She glanced over to him, wondering if they would ever get back to the comfortable friendship they once had. Because in the past few weeks, she had done nothing but screw it up.
She had gone to him because she hadn’t a clue on who else to involve in the matter. His military training and discreet manner had made him the obvious choice for something so dangerous. And she trusted him above all others, for he had never given her a reason not to.
But something she had never faced within herself was her stubbornness with injustice. So while he had told her that what she was trying to do was not only physically dangerous, but politically, Selene hadn’t thought of that to be a problem. In her naive mind, the death of both her sister and the King would cause more political issues. Not allowing them a trial was wrong, plain and simple. If Stephanos was found guilty, that was one thing. But he should have the chance to prove his innocence.
In her mind, the ramifications of not being able to do that seemed far worse for everyone involved. But her own exposure to the true politics of Greece were limited by her gender. She didn’t sit in on Senate meetings, or keep the company of the decision makers. It was apparent that she had been raised to be a Queen who was seen and not heard. And it was only since meeting Vangelis did she realize that her voice could matter.
And she tested it with a friend.
She had used anything and everything to gain his assistance, and in the end conjuring up an image of his sister in the same circumstances seemed to be what did the trick. In the heat of the moment, she carried no regret in her actions. But now, she was feeling the weight of that action. And could tell by his stance and mien that once again, their relationship had changed.
When it came to him, it just appeared that she could do nothing right.
She shook her head, “Compassion, in the face of reason, should always be apologized for. Regardless of the intent, my compassion would have been for nothing if something happened to you.” She stopped staring at her hands, focusing on him. “I used our friendship for personal gain, without thought…” She sighed, “Regardless of your title or station, I should not have used the bond we have created as leverage to gain your action. I would have never forgiven myself, had the cost of Pia and the baby’s life been yours.”
Instead, it had cost others their lives. And she would have to spend a lifetime dealing with what the cost had been. “You do not believe in regret, but I cannot help that I do regret what I did. But it will keep my mindful in the future. I shall try to do better.”
She turned, looking out to sea with a frustrated sigh. “I feel as though I have done nothing right since returning home. The last time I felt sure of myself was in Colchis. Perhaps its shores will bring me clarity once more.” She said with hope, unsure of herself once again.
Silence washed over them, it not as uncomfortable as she thought it would be.
She glanced over to him, wondering if they would ever get back to the comfortable friendship they once had. Because in the past few weeks, she had done nothing but screw it up.
Uncomfortable at her obvious feeling of displacement - of the guilt she seemed to harbour over her actions, Vangelis felt his feelings twist and change. From blame and hurt, he found himself feeling sympathy and a need to adjust his thoughts, words and behaviours so that Selene could be more at ease.
The more she argued her guilt, the more he felt a desire to deny it and to assure her that such self-imposed regret and punishment did not need to be hers to be borne. In the same way the human mind became contrary when you had no interest in something until someone else moved to take it, he found himself sitting on both sides of the fence, before his refusal to hold a grudge tipped him over in favour of her innocence.
For a moment - the thought of someone else taking that which you wanted - prompted a memory of the Taengean court. Of an Egyptian general who had taken a liking to something that Vangelis had then felt the need to steer in the other direction. He shrugged it away mentally, but his shoulders physically stiffened. He turned his attention to other things.
As Selene continued to speak, he wondered what he could say that would loosen her guilt - what would explain to her not to be so hard on herself and her decisions when they had at least come from a place of love for others - not a selfish need for gain or greed.
"You don't have to penalise yourself with such chastisement." He told her. "I should have explained the consequences of your plan more carefully - you weren't to know the end result for those men." He determined, realising where her thoughts of guilt might more heavily rest. "As for the impact it had on me politically, you can be assured that I found a way to remove that risk."
He glanced at her over his shoulder from where he stood and offered her a half shrug and an expression that read, that such a concern was no big deal.
"My people and the Colchis crown were at no risk during the escape. I found a way to keep them clear of it. So, you owe them and me nothing."
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Uncomfortable at her obvious feeling of displacement - of the guilt she seemed to harbour over her actions, Vangelis felt his feelings twist and change. From blame and hurt, he found himself feeling sympathy and a need to adjust his thoughts, words and behaviours so that Selene could be more at ease.
The more she argued her guilt, the more he felt a desire to deny it and to assure her that such self-imposed regret and punishment did not need to be hers to be borne. In the same way the human mind became contrary when you had no interest in something until someone else moved to take it, he found himself sitting on both sides of the fence, before his refusal to hold a grudge tipped him over in favour of her innocence.
For a moment - the thought of someone else taking that which you wanted - prompted a memory of the Taengean court. Of an Egyptian general who had taken a liking to something that Vangelis had then felt the need to steer in the other direction. He shrugged it away mentally, but his shoulders physically stiffened. He turned his attention to other things.
As Selene continued to speak, he wondered what he could say that would loosen her guilt - what would explain to her not to be so hard on herself and her decisions when they had at least come from a place of love for others - not a selfish need for gain or greed.
"You don't have to penalise yourself with such chastisement." He told her. "I should have explained the consequences of your plan more carefully - you weren't to know the end result for those men." He determined, realising where her thoughts of guilt might more heavily rest. "As for the impact it had on me politically, you can be assured that I found a way to remove that risk."
He glanced at her over his shoulder from where he stood and offered her a half shrug and an expression that read, that such a concern was no big deal.
"My people and the Colchis crown were at no risk during the escape. I found a way to keep them clear of it. So, you owe them and me nothing."
Uncomfortable at her obvious feeling of displacement - of the guilt she seemed to harbour over her actions, Vangelis felt his feelings twist and change. From blame and hurt, he found himself feeling sympathy and a need to adjust his thoughts, words and behaviours so that Selene could be more at ease.
The more she argued her guilt, the more he felt a desire to deny it and to assure her that such self-imposed regret and punishment did not need to be hers to be borne. In the same way the human mind became contrary when you had no interest in something until someone else moved to take it, he found himself sitting on both sides of the fence, before his refusal to hold a grudge tipped him over in favour of her innocence.
For a moment - the thought of someone else taking that which you wanted - prompted a memory of the Taengean court. Of an Egyptian general who had taken a liking to something that Vangelis had then felt the need to steer in the other direction. He shrugged it away mentally, but his shoulders physically stiffened. He turned his attention to other things.
As Selene continued to speak, he wondered what he could say that would loosen her guilt - what would explain to her not to be so hard on herself and her decisions when they had at least come from a place of love for others - not a selfish need for gain or greed.
"You don't have to penalise yourself with such chastisement." He told her. "I should have explained the consequences of your plan more carefully - you weren't to know the end result for those men." He determined, realising where her thoughts of guilt might more heavily rest. "As for the impact it had on me politically, you can be assured that I found a way to remove that risk."
He glanced at her over his shoulder from where he stood and offered her a half shrug and an expression that read, that such a concern was no big deal.
"My people and the Colchis crown were at no risk during the escape. I found a way to keep them clear of it. So, you owe them and me nothing."
She was sure that this was a first for both of them, just with the way he seemed to brush off her concern as nothing. It was probably rare for anyone to openly admit they had been in the wrong, especially to him. He was a matter-of-fact man who was a judge of actions and not words. And her actions had given him every reason to not give her a second chance. But he hadn’t left, and she pulled his thick coat tighter around herself.
He stayed, and she was grateful for the chance he was giving her to admit her mistakes and to learn from them.
She was studying him more carefully now, the look on his face was one she had never seen before. He was visibly uncomfortable, but with every way in which she seemed to ruin their friendship, Selene decided to let it be. If he wished to explain why he seemed upset, Vangelis would tell her. He was nothing if not direct with her, and she was learning to both appreciate it and trust what he shared.
It had been a lesson she would not forget.
“Oh?” She asked, turning towards him out of curiosity. He was nothing if not a thoughtful man, and would not have said anything if he hadn’t felt the need to share that information with her. “You had been so certain that it would only cause political ruin for the peace treaty. What could you have possibly done that would have removed that risk?”
Stepping closer, in case it was a secret that he did not wish to be overheard, Selene let her own hand fall close to his on the rail. If she stretched her pinky, it would have touched his. “Vangelis, what did you do?” She asked quietly, almost afraid of the answer.
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She was sure that this was a first for both of them, just with the way he seemed to brush off her concern as nothing. It was probably rare for anyone to openly admit they had been in the wrong, especially to him. He was a matter-of-fact man who was a judge of actions and not words. And her actions had given him every reason to not give her a second chance. But he hadn’t left, and she pulled his thick coat tighter around herself.
He stayed, and she was grateful for the chance he was giving her to admit her mistakes and to learn from them.
She was studying him more carefully now, the look on his face was one she had never seen before. He was visibly uncomfortable, but with every way in which she seemed to ruin their friendship, Selene decided to let it be. If he wished to explain why he seemed upset, Vangelis would tell her. He was nothing if not direct with her, and she was learning to both appreciate it and trust what he shared.
It had been a lesson she would not forget.
“Oh?” She asked, turning towards him out of curiosity. He was nothing if not a thoughtful man, and would not have said anything if he hadn’t felt the need to share that information with her. “You had been so certain that it would only cause political ruin for the peace treaty. What could you have possibly done that would have removed that risk?”
Stepping closer, in case it was a secret that he did not wish to be overheard, Selene let her own hand fall close to his on the rail. If she stretched her pinky, it would have touched his. “Vangelis, what did you do?” She asked quietly, almost afraid of the answer.
She was sure that this was a first for both of them, just with the way he seemed to brush off her concern as nothing. It was probably rare for anyone to openly admit they had been in the wrong, especially to him. He was a matter-of-fact man who was a judge of actions and not words. And her actions had given him every reason to not give her a second chance. But he hadn’t left, and she pulled his thick coat tighter around herself.
He stayed, and she was grateful for the chance he was giving her to admit her mistakes and to learn from them.
She was studying him more carefully now, the look on his face was one she had never seen before. He was visibly uncomfortable, but with every way in which she seemed to ruin their friendship, Selene decided to let it be. If he wished to explain why he seemed upset, Vangelis would tell her. He was nothing if not direct with her, and she was learning to both appreciate it and trust what he shared.
It had been a lesson she would not forget.
“Oh?” She asked, turning towards him out of curiosity. He was nothing if not a thoughtful man, and would not have said anything if he hadn’t felt the need to share that information with her. “You had been so certain that it would only cause political ruin for the peace treaty. What could you have possibly done that would have removed that risk?”
Stepping closer, in case it was a secret that he did not wish to be overheard, Selene let her own hand fall close to his on the rail. If she stretched her pinky, it would have touched his. “Vangelis, what did you do?” She asked quietly, almost afraid of the answer.
When she moved to stand next to him, Vangelis turned away, his gaze focused on the horizon he could barely see. Between an inky sky and black waters, it was almost impossible to note the line that divided the two. Only the way the waters reflected and the sky seemed to suck in the light differentiated the two.
He wasn't sure he wanted to tell Selene what he had done that allowed the plan to go ahead. And he wasn't sure if his hesitation had more to do with her guilt or his own... either way he knew that, for one thing, it was unlikely that the woman would wish to drop the subject and, for another, he could at least trust her to keep all conversations between them a secret. She might not trust him in his opinion of escape plans but she was also far from an idiot. She would know the importance of what it was he was considering telling her. And he felt certain he could trust her never to repeat to anyone.
"Nothing." He answered her, when she prompted the question. He didn't behave nervous as he admitted it to her. He was defiant in his choice and unapologetic. "Or rather... as Vangelis I did everything." He countered. "But I did nothing as the crown prince."
He glanced sideways at her before turning his attentions back to the water.
"I couldn't allow my kingdom to be implicated if we were caught during the escape." He said so calmly - as if he were simply explaining a mathematical equation and its obvious solution. "They would have to shoulder the consequences if their prince was seen to be committing an act of treason against the peace treaty." He offered a slight shrug. "So, I simply wasn't the crown prince while we were in that palace."
This time, when he glanced around at her, he held her gaze, finding himself curious as to her reaction.
"I abdicated."
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When she moved to stand next to him, Vangelis turned away, his gaze focused on the horizon he could barely see. Between an inky sky and black waters, it was almost impossible to note the line that divided the two. Only the way the waters reflected and the sky seemed to suck in the light differentiated the two.
He wasn't sure he wanted to tell Selene what he had done that allowed the plan to go ahead. And he wasn't sure if his hesitation had more to do with her guilt or his own... either way he knew that, for one thing, it was unlikely that the woman would wish to drop the subject and, for another, he could at least trust her to keep all conversations between them a secret. She might not trust him in his opinion of escape plans but she was also far from an idiot. She would know the importance of what it was he was considering telling her. And he felt certain he could trust her never to repeat to anyone.
"Nothing." He answered her, when she prompted the question. He didn't behave nervous as he admitted it to her. He was defiant in his choice and unapologetic. "Or rather... as Vangelis I did everything." He countered. "But I did nothing as the crown prince."
He glanced sideways at her before turning his attentions back to the water.
"I couldn't allow my kingdom to be implicated if we were caught during the escape." He said so calmly - as if he were simply explaining a mathematical equation and its obvious solution. "They would have to shoulder the consequences if their prince was seen to be committing an act of treason against the peace treaty." He offered a slight shrug. "So, I simply wasn't the crown prince while we were in that palace."
This time, when he glanced around at her, he held her gaze, finding himself curious as to her reaction.
"I abdicated."
When she moved to stand next to him, Vangelis turned away, his gaze focused on the horizon he could barely see. Between an inky sky and black waters, it was almost impossible to note the line that divided the two. Only the way the waters reflected and the sky seemed to suck in the light differentiated the two.
He wasn't sure he wanted to tell Selene what he had done that allowed the plan to go ahead. And he wasn't sure if his hesitation had more to do with her guilt or his own... either way he knew that, for one thing, it was unlikely that the woman would wish to drop the subject and, for another, he could at least trust her to keep all conversations between them a secret. She might not trust him in his opinion of escape plans but she was also far from an idiot. She would know the importance of what it was he was considering telling her. And he felt certain he could trust her never to repeat to anyone.
"Nothing." He answered her, when she prompted the question. He didn't behave nervous as he admitted it to her. He was defiant in his choice and unapologetic. "Or rather... as Vangelis I did everything." He countered. "But I did nothing as the crown prince."
He glanced sideways at her before turning his attentions back to the water.
"I couldn't allow my kingdom to be implicated if we were caught during the escape." He said so calmly - as if he were simply explaining a mathematical equation and its obvious solution. "They would have to shoulder the consequences if their prince was seen to be committing an act of treason against the peace treaty." He offered a slight shrug. "So, I simply wasn't the crown prince while we were in that palace."
This time, when he glanced around at her, he held her gaze, finding himself curious as to her reaction.
"I abdicated."
She was holding her breath, trying to figure out just what had happened that had allowed him to act on his plan without endangering the lives of his people. He had been so certain that there was nothing to be done, and yet he had found a way and did so without putting the treaty at risk. Selene had thought it was impossible because he had told her that. She believed him to be true-- and would have acted without him if he had continued to insist that there was nothing to be done.
Selene had insisted that she could do something, when he told her that he couldn’t help. And while she pressed him to do more, she had been alright with what she had planned. In her mind, her beauty had been enough. He had told her that it was a half baked plan that could not succeed.
But he had found a way.
She listened, silent as she tried to piece together what he was getting at.
“No.” She said firmly, not believing that he would do something as drastic as that. She couldn’t be hearing him correctly. “Vangelis... “ her voice was low, still worried about being overheard. Stepping closer, hip to hip, she placed a hand on his forearm. “You called my idea foolish, and yet you do something so drastic as that?” She whispered, fingers curling into fabric as if she needed clarification that this wasn’t a dream. “Had my plan failed, I would have been the only one to suffer the immediate consequences. Had yours failed…”
She hadn’t been above deck for long when they first arrived at the ship, so whatever had been done to destroy evidence of what he’d done, she hadn’t been privy to. Now that she knew, she was incredibly humbled by his actions. He would have given up the most important thing, his one duty and seemingly his only joy, so that she wouldn’t have to risk herself in a plan like the one she had come up with. “Why?” She asked in disbelief, “Why would you choose such an extreme means to the end. Do not mistake my curiosity-- I am not only thankful but humbled by what you did. But I simply do not understand why you were willing to do so.”
Why risk everything for her?
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She was holding her breath, trying to figure out just what had happened that had allowed him to act on his plan without endangering the lives of his people. He had been so certain that there was nothing to be done, and yet he had found a way and did so without putting the treaty at risk. Selene had thought it was impossible because he had told her that. She believed him to be true-- and would have acted without him if he had continued to insist that there was nothing to be done.
Selene had insisted that she could do something, when he told her that he couldn’t help. And while she pressed him to do more, she had been alright with what she had planned. In her mind, her beauty had been enough. He had told her that it was a half baked plan that could not succeed.
But he had found a way.
She listened, silent as she tried to piece together what he was getting at.
“No.” She said firmly, not believing that he would do something as drastic as that. She couldn’t be hearing him correctly. “Vangelis... “ her voice was low, still worried about being overheard. Stepping closer, hip to hip, she placed a hand on his forearm. “You called my idea foolish, and yet you do something so drastic as that?” She whispered, fingers curling into fabric as if she needed clarification that this wasn’t a dream. “Had my plan failed, I would have been the only one to suffer the immediate consequences. Had yours failed…”
She hadn’t been above deck for long when they first arrived at the ship, so whatever had been done to destroy evidence of what he’d done, she hadn’t been privy to. Now that she knew, she was incredibly humbled by his actions. He would have given up the most important thing, his one duty and seemingly his only joy, so that she wouldn’t have to risk herself in a plan like the one she had come up with. “Why?” She asked in disbelief, “Why would you choose such an extreme means to the end. Do not mistake my curiosity-- I am not only thankful but humbled by what you did. But I simply do not understand why you were willing to do so.”
Why risk everything for her?
She was holding her breath, trying to figure out just what had happened that had allowed him to act on his plan without endangering the lives of his people. He had been so certain that there was nothing to be done, and yet he had found a way and did so without putting the treaty at risk. Selene had thought it was impossible because he had told her that. She believed him to be true-- and would have acted without him if he had continued to insist that there was nothing to be done.
Selene had insisted that she could do something, when he told her that he couldn’t help. And while she pressed him to do more, she had been alright with what she had planned. In her mind, her beauty had been enough. He had told her that it was a half baked plan that could not succeed.
But he had found a way.
She listened, silent as she tried to piece together what he was getting at.
“No.” She said firmly, not believing that he would do something as drastic as that. She couldn’t be hearing him correctly. “Vangelis... “ her voice was low, still worried about being overheard. Stepping closer, hip to hip, she placed a hand on his forearm. “You called my idea foolish, and yet you do something so drastic as that?” She whispered, fingers curling into fabric as if she needed clarification that this wasn’t a dream. “Had my plan failed, I would have been the only one to suffer the immediate consequences. Had yours failed…”
She hadn’t been above deck for long when they first arrived at the ship, so whatever had been done to destroy evidence of what he’d done, she hadn’t been privy to. Now that she knew, she was incredibly humbled by his actions. He would have given up the most important thing, his one duty and seemingly his only joy, so that she wouldn’t have to risk herself in a plan like the one she had come up with. “Why?” She asked in disbelief, “Why would you choose such an extreme means to the end. Do not mistake my curiosity-- I am not only thankful but humbled by what you did. But I simply do not understand why you were willing to do so.”
Why risk everything for her?
Whilst Selene became emotional, Vangelis remained entirely calm, his words dramatic and their implications holding the chance to change his kingdoms history and future but his tone, stance and facial features revealing only an assured serenity in what he had down and why. In the same way that he did not linger on regrets that could never be changed, he also wasn't one to ruminate on the potential futures of the dreaded 'what if?'. For Vangelis, it was a waste of energy and emotion to spend it on such concerns. The reality of life required far too much focus. And the duties of each of his roles required far too much strength. The expectation of his own character and stoicism would be impossible to hold true to, if he was continuously worrying himself of alternative pasts and futures that were no longer likely or possible.
When Selene drew closer to seek confirmation, her tone worried and her eyes large in her face, Vangelis kept his eyes fixed upon the sea, initially. Only when she finished expressing her shock and... humility (a reaction that only made him more uncomfortable), did he turned to look at her. The corner of his mouth curled upwards slightly and his eyes brightened with a lightness that told the woman - who stood there looking so small in his cloak - not to be so worried.
"It it had failed..." He started, answering her initial question first. "Then Colchis would have had one of my brothers as its King." He insisted. "I have no shortage of them, Selene. Colchis would have been no weaker for it. I risked very little of my kingdom for three innocent lives." He offered a half shrug; the shoulder closest to her rising and falling in a gesture of nonchalance. The movement sent her hand sliding down his arm, the fabric of his tunic sliding between her touch and his skin.
"Anyway, it doesn't matter." He concluded, turning towards her. With his body facing her now, he rested his left elbow on the wall of the ship as he shook his head. "My official notice of removal was destroyed. I had it kept ready to be processed if our escape plan failed. Else it was to be wiped away, as if it never existed. Its already dust in the ocean."
He had been solely Vangelis - not the crown prince of his kingdom - for a total of approximately three hours. Now, he was back to being heir to his father's throne, no-one the wiser.
Of course, had the tablet been discovered and Nike overpowered for it... Had it seen the light of day and the eyes of anyone else, Vangelis would not have been able to backtrack. He would have had to accept abdication, regardless of the success of the mission at hand. It was one of those times that Vangelis was both proud and pleased to have men he trusted so implicitly as to allow for such a plan.
Witnessing that Selene was still staring, Vangelis swallowed and broke eye contact.
"It was the right thing to do, Selene." He determined without apology or regret. "You were right that something had to be done. I just found the way that caused risk to the fewest parties."
Because, regardless of the difficulties of that choice or any personal feelings on the matter, that was what a prince did.
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Whilst Selene became emotional, Vangelis remained entirely calm, his words dramatic and their implications holding the chance to change his kingdoms history and future but his tone, stance and facial features revealing only an assured serenity in what he had down and why. In the same way that he did not linger on regrets that could never be changed, he also wasn't one to ruminate on the potential futures of the dreaded 'what if?'. For Vangelis, it was a waste of energy and emotion to spend it on such concerns. The reality of life required far too much focus. And the duties of each of his roles required far too much strength. The expectation of his own character and stoicism would be impossible to hold true to, if he was continuously worrying himself of alternative pasts and futures that were no longer likely or possible.
When Selene drew closer to seek confirmation, her tone worried and her eyes large in her face, Vangelis kept his eyes fixed upon the sea, initially. Only when she finished expressing her shock and... humility (a reaction that only made him more uncomfortable), did he turned to look at her. The corner of his mouth curled upwards slightly and his eyes brightened with a lightness that told the woman - who stood there looking so small in his cloak - not to be so worried.
"It it had failed..." He started, answering her initial question first. "Then Colchis would have had one of my brothers as its King." He insisted. "I have no shortage of them, Selene. Colchis would have been no weaker for it. I risked very little of my kingdom for three innocent lives." He offered a half shrug; the shoulder closest to her rising and falling in a gesture of nonchalance. The movement sent her hand sliding down his arm, the fabric of his tunic sliding between her touch and his skin.
"Anyway, it doesn't matter." He concluded, turning towards her. With his body facing her now, he rested his left elbow on the wall of the ship as he shook his head. "My official notice of removal was destroyed. I had it kept ready to be processed if our escape plan failed. Else it was to be wiped away, as if it never existed. Its already dust in the ocean."
He had been solely Vangelis - not the crown prince of his kingdom - for a total of approximately three hours. Now, he was back to being heir to his father's throne, no-one the wiser.
Of course, had the tablet been discovered and Nike overpowered for it... Had it seen the light of day and the eyes of anyone else, Vangelis would not have been able to backtrack. He would have had to accept abdication, regardless of the success of the mission at hand. It was one of those times that Vangelis was both proud and pleased to have men he trusted so implicitly as to allow for such a plan.
Witnessing that Selene was still staring, Vangelis swallowed and broke eye contact.
"It was the right thing to do, Selene." He determined without apology or regret. "You were right that something had to be done. I just found the way that caused risk to the fewest parties."
Because, regardless of the difficulties of that choice or any personal feelings on the matter, that was what a prince did.
Whilst Selene became emotional, Vangelis remained entirely calm, his words dramatic and their implications holding the chance to change his kingdoms history and future but his tone, stance and facial features revealing only an assured serenity in what he had down and why. In the same way that he did not linger on regrets that could never be changed, he also wasn't one to ruminate on the potential futures of the dreaded 'what if?'. For Vangelis, it was a waste of energy and emotion to spend it on such concerns. The reality of life required far too much focus. And the duties of each of his roles required far too much strength. The expectation of his own character and stoicism would be impossible to hold true to, if he was continuously worrying himself of alternative pasts and futures that were no longer likely or possible.
When Selene drew closer to seek confirmation, her tone worried and her eyes large in her face, Vangelis kept his eyes fixed upon the sea, initially. Only when she finished expressing her shock and... humility (a reaction that only made him more uncomfortable), did he turned to look at her. The corner of his mouth curled upwards slightly and his eyes brightened with a lightness that told the woman - who stood there looking so small in his cloak - not to be so worried.
"It it had failed..." He started, answering her initial question first. "Then Colchis would have had one of my brothers as its King." He insisted. "I have no shortage of them, Selene. Colchis would have been no weaker for it. I risked very little of my kingdom for three innocent lives." He offered a half shrug; the shoulder closest to her rising and falling in a gesture of nonchalance. The movement sent her hand sliding down his arm, the fabric of his tunic sliding between her touch and his skin.
"Anyway, it doesn't matter." He concluded, turning towards her. With his body facing her now, he rested his left elbow on the wall of the ship as he shook his head. "My official notice of removal was destroyed. I had it kept ready to be processed if our escape plan failed. Else it was to be wiped away, as if it never existed. Its already dust in the ocean."
He had been solely Vangelis - not the crown prince of his kingdom - for a total of approximately three hours. Now, he was back to being heir to his father's throne, no-one the wiser.
Of course, had the tablet been discovered and Nike overpowered for it... Had it seen the light of day and the eyes of anyone else, Vangelis would not have been able to backtrack. He would have had to accept abdication, regardless of the success of the mission at hand. It was one of those times that Vangelis was both proud and pleased to have men he trusted so implicitly as to allow for such a plan.
Witnessing that Selene was still staring, Vangelis swallowed and broke eye contact.
"It was the right thing to do, Selene." He determined without apology or regret. "You were right that something had to be done. I just found the way that caused risk to the fewest parties."
Because, regardless of the difficulties of that choice or any personal feelings on the matter, that was what a prince did.
“An abundance of siblings is not a justification for choosing abdication as a viable option.” She said, a gentle laugh on her lips, so he knew that his attempt at humor (though rare) was not lost on her. “I just…” She had used the same logic and reasoning in her own plot, knowing that should something happen, one of her sisters would take over. Theo was mostly responsible and would have done well as the eldest in her stead.
But where she had been scolded for thinking that way, he embraced it.
Perhaps that was the difference in upbringing. While she was one to shoulder the responsibility of her actions as the eldest, he did so because he was a prince. He was expected to do it for the good of everyone else. Her heart warmed to know that he considered her something worth protecting.
“I wish I had the words to properly convince you of my gratitude. But since I know you will simply brush them off as though it was as simple as picking out your dinner, I shall say it plainly.” She closed the distance between them, her hand resting softly on his cheek. She could have let her thumb brush the rough stubble there, but she had seen how he reacted to physical conflict in the past. Still, she hoped that he would allow her this moment of thankfulness. “Thank you. Truly.” Selene’s touch made his eyes locked with hers, and she hoped that, even in the darkness, he could see the gratitude she carried for his actions.
Her hand lingered, for just a moment, before she let it fall again. “I am glad you are still the crown prince. As much respect as I have for your brother, I do not think he would be ready to wear it responsibility as well as you do.” She smiled with her jest, “I would never be able to visit, for fear of another abduction.” Not that she had taken offense after the fact. It had been a fond memory, had set the mood of her visit and had made her appreciate the differences of the personalities with the Kotas family.
She gripped the cloak on her shoulders, pulling at it to give it back to him.
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“An abundance of siblings is not a justification for choosing abdication as a viable option.” She said, a gentle laugh on her lips, so he knew that his attempt at humor (though rare) was not lost on her. “I just…” She had used the same logic and reasoning in her own plot, knowing that should something happen, one of her sisters would take over. Theo was mostly responsible and would have done well as the eldest in her stead.
But where she had been scolded for thinking that way, he embraced it.
Perhaps that was the difference in upbringing. While she was one to shoulder the responsibility of her actions as the eldest, he did so because he was a prince. He was expected to do it for the good of everyone else. Her heart warmed to know that he considered her something worth protecting.
“I wish I had the words to properly convince you of my gratitude. But since I know you will simply brush them off as though it was as simple as picking out your dinner, I shall say it plainly.” She closed the distance between them, her hand resting softly on his cheek. She could have let her thumb brush the rough stubble there, but she had seen how he reacted to physical conflict in the past. Still, she hoped that he would allow her this moment of thankfulness. “Thank you. Truly.” Selene’s touch made his eyes locked with hers, and she hoped that, even in the darkness, he could see the gratitude she carried for his actions.
Her hand lingered, for just a moment, before she let it fall again. “I am glad you are still the crown prince. As much respect as I have for your brother, I do not think he would be ready to wear it responsibility as well as you do.” She smiled with her jest, “I would never be able to visit, for fear of another abduction.” Not that she had taken offense after the fact. It had been a fond memory, had set the mood of her visit and had made her appreciate the differences of the personalities with the Kotas family.
She gripped the cloak on her shoulders, pulling at it to give it back to him.
“An abundance of siblings is not a justification for choosing abdication as a viable option.” She said, a gentle laugh on her lips, so he knew that his attempt at humor (though rare) was not lost on her. “I just…” She had used the same logic and reasoning in her own plot, knowing that should something happen, one of her sisters would take over. Theo was mostly responsible and would have done well as the eldest in her stead.
But where she had been scolded for thinking that way, he embraced it.
Perhaps that was the difference in upbringing. While she was one to shoulder the responsibility of her actions as the eldest, he did so because he was a prince. He was expected to do it for the good of everyone else. Her heart warmed to know that he considered her something worth protecting.
“I wish I had the words to properly convince you of my gratitude. But since I know you will simply brush them off as though it was as simple as picking out your dinner, I shall say it plainly.” She closed the distance between them, her hand resting softly on his cheek. She could have let her thumb brush the rough stubble there, but she had seen how he reacted to physical conflict in the past. Still, she hoped that he would allow her this moment of thankfulness. “Thank you. Truly.” Selene’s touch made his eyes locked with hers, and she hoped that, even in the darkness, he could see the gratitude she carried for his actions.
Her hand lingered, for just a moment, before she let it fall again. “I am glad you are still the crown prince. As much respect as I have for your brother, I do not think he would be ready to wear it responsibility as well as you do.” She smiled with her jest, “I would never be able to visit, for fear of another abduction.” Not that she had taken offense after the fact. It had been a fond memory, had set the mood of her visit and had made her appreciate the differences of the personalities with the Kotas family.
She gripped the cloak on her shoulders, pulling at it to give it back to him.
When Selene reached out to touch him, Vangelis felt the conflict he already had regarding her and his connection with her start to flutter in his chest. It was a sensation that was becoming more familiar the longer her was in her private company and he did not find it comforting. Instead, he felt insecurity each time she came near and it was not a sensation he, in his position and upbringing, was used to.
Remaining still as she did so, knowing it would offend her to react with distaste for her touch, Vangelis let Selene press the hand to the side of his face and offer him her truest thanks. Not wanting to insult her by acting as she had expected with a disregarding brush off, he simply said nothing. He only nodded in acceptance of her thanks. The brush of her hand over the side of his face, as he did so, felt like it sparked but he put it down to his unshaven state.
When she commented on her preference that he remained the crown prince of Colchis, Vangelis felt the flutter in his chest turn warm, but otherwise he ignored the compliment, focusing on the side of it that spoke to Zanon and his tendency for jokes.
"Zanon would have risen to the title." Vangelis said. His tone didn't say that he was offended by Selene's comment at all, but it did hold a solid and fundamentally certain sense of granite. It was clear that he had absolute and complete faith and trust in his brother. Were anything to happen to him, on the battlefield or otherwise, Zanon would lead the kingdom with tactical wisdom and personal compassion. He knew that his brother would not let down either his or their father's memory, if such an occasion came.
When Selene moved to remove the cloak that he had fastened around her shoulders, Vangelis raised a hand, palm facing outwards, in a halting gesture.
"Keep it." He told her. "It's a cold night for this time of year." He took a step back and bowed softly to her, effectively dismissing himself from her company. "Stay on deck however long you like, I must see to the Captain."
And with that, Vangelis turned on his heel and headed off down towards the other end of the ship, glad to be out of her presence and able to focus on his duties and his plans for the voyage without the distracting insecurity and confusion that his friend was starting to cause within him. He just wished he could stop noticing those strands of burnt gold in her eyes...
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When Selene reached out to touch him, Vangelis felt the conflict he already had regarding her and his connection with her start to flutter in his chest. It was a sensation that was becoming more familiar the longer her was in her private company and he did not find it comforting. Instead, he felt insecurity each time she came near and it was not a sensation he, in his position and upbringing, was used to.
Remaining still as she did so, knowing it would offend her to react with distaste for her touch, Vangelis let Selene press the hand to the side of his face and offer him her truest thanks. Not wanting to insult her by acting as she had expected with a disregarding brush off, he simply said nothing. He only nodded in acceptance of her thanks. The brush of her hand over the side of his face, as he did so, felt like it sparked but he put it down to his unshaven state.
When she commented on her preference that he remained the crown prince of Colchis, Vangelis felt the flutter in his chest turn warm, but otherwise he ignored the compliment, focusing on the side of it that spoke to Zanon and his tendency for jokes.
"Zanon would have risen to the title." Vangelis said. His tone didn't say that he was offended by Selene's comment at all, but it did hold a solid and fundamentally certain sense of granite. It was clear that he had absolute and complete faith and trust in his brother. Were anything to happen to him, on the battlefield or otherwise, Zanon would lead the kingdom with tactical wisdom and personal compassion. He knew that his brother would not let down either his or their father's memory, if such an occasion came.
When Selene moved to remove the cloak that he had fastened around her shoulders, Vangelis raised a hand, palm facing outwards, in a halting gesture.
"Keep it." He told her. "It's a cold night for this time of year." He took a step back and bowed softly to her, effectively dismissing himself from her company. "Stay on deck however long you like, I must see to the Captain."
And with that, Vangelis turned on his heel and headed off down towards the other end of the ship, glad to be out of her presence and able to focus on his duties and his plans for the voyage without the distracting insecurity and confusion that his friend was starting to cause within him. He just wished he could stop noticing those strands of burnt gold in her eyes...
When Selene reached out to touch him, Vangelis felt the conflict he already had regarding her and his connection with her start to flutter in his chest. It was a sensation that was becoming more familiar the longer her was in her private company and he did not find it comforting. Instead, he felt insecurity each time she came near and it was not a sensation he, in his position and upbringing, was used to.
Remaining still as she did so, knowing it would offend her to react with distaste for her touch, Vangelis let Selene press the hand to the side of his face and offer him her truest thanks. Not wanting to insult her by acting as she had expected with a disregarding brush off, he simply said nothing. He only nodded in acceptance of her thanks. The brush of her hand over the side of his face, as he did so, felt like it sparked but he put it down to his unshaven state.
When she commented on her preference that he remained the crown prince of Colchis, Vangelis felt the flutter in his chest turn warm, but otherwise he ignored the compliment, focusing on the side of it that spoke to Zanon and his tendency for jokes.
"Zanon would have risen to the title." Vangelis said. His tone didn't say that he was offended by Selene's comment at all, but it did hold a solid and fundamentally certain sense of granite. It was clear that he had absolute and complete faith and trust in his brother. Were anything to happen to him, on the battlefield or otherwise, Zanon would lead the kingdom with tactical wisdom and personal compassion. He knew that his brother would not let down either his or their father's memory, if such an occasion came.
When Selene moved to remove the cloak that he had fastened around her shoulders, Vangelis raised a hand, palm facing outwards, in a halting gesture.
"Keep it." He told her. "It's a cold night for this time of year." He took a step back and bowed softly to her, effectively dismissing himself from her company. "Stay on deck however long you like, I must see to the Captain."
And with that, Vangelis turned on his heel and headed off down towards the other end of the ship, glad to be out of her presence and able to focus on his duties and his plans for the voyage without the distracting insecurity and confusion that his friend was starting to cause within him. He just wished he could stop noticing those strands of burnt gold in her eyes...