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The forests of Aetaea were peaceful but flourishing this time of year. The late Praratios sunshine filtered down through budding leaves as the cooler air of winter all but disappeared in what seemed like a single night. Gone were the nights of being forced under heavy blankets and bedding just to stay warm. Spring had come at the break of the month and Iris, a young twenty-four year old, had come to bask in such a revelation. The first signs of spring meant that prey would be even more plentiful as creatures and beasts reproduced. If the deer had not had their fawns yet, they would soon be trailing Artemis' forests.
What Iris was most excited foe was the other, small creatures that would be scuttling from their winter homes to enjoy the warm sunlight and the drying of the wet winter weather that often brought too much rain and threatened to drown nearly everything in sight. To not be forced to slosh through the forest, wading through mud and shit in order to hunt was like a breath of better smelling air.
Iris was waiting to make her way out that morning simply because she was waiting on hee guest. She had gotten the missive a few days before and had been buzzed with excitement since. To have the princess of Athenia come and stay in her home? Explore and relax with her in a way that was not often warranted in her position? Takis had been very clear that Iris needed to be on her best behavior, and Iris herself had asserted that she knew Persephone well enough to know what would and would not be okay.
At least she hoped.
Iris had plans and horses prepared for those plans, as well as other activities the two of them could enjoy for the next few days. It was not often that Iris had company in her own home, so the lady was simply hoping that everything would be perfect. The fewer slip ups and mishaps they ran into, the better. Besides, part of her desperately wanted to ask about Aimias, of who she knew was still being sponsored by the royal family. But news was hard to come by out here and even though it had been some years since, part of her was still exceedingly curious about him.
It was hard not to be when one had left nearly everything behind. Even the man that had started to grip so tightly at her own heart.
But he was not the focus of the next few days. Iris' focus was the carriage trailing down the long, winding path to her estate. The princess inside was her ultimate focus and all of her attention would be given to the Princess Persephone. Gaios had already agreed to pick up her slack in terms of the work.
Stepping down the steps of the manor and onto the dirt path, Iris' simple chiton caught the breeze. She smoothed her hands down against the fabric, a smile lighting her lips in the sudden and sheer excitement to have her friend here and free of other distractions. As the carriage stopped and the driver slipped off his seat to open the door for the princess, Iris stepped forward, offering both of her hands to help Persephone down.
"My princess," Iris said smoothly in greeting, "I must say that I am elated that you made it in one piece. Welcome to Aetaea, and welcome to my home."
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 forests of Aetaea were peaceful but flourishing this time of year. The late Praratios sunshine filtered down through budding leaves as the cooler air of winter all but disappeared in what seemed like a single night. Gone were the nights of being forced under heavy blankets and bedding just to stay warm. Spring had come at the break of the month and Iris, a young twenty-four year old, had come to bask in such a revelation. The first signs of spring meant that prey would be even more plentiful as creatures and beasts reproduced. If the deer had not had their fawns yet, they would soon be trailing Artemis' forests.
What Iris was most excited foe was the other, small creatures that would be scuttling from their winter homes to enjoy the warm sunlight and the drying of the wet winter weather that often brought too much rain and threatened to drown nearly everything in sight. To not be forced to slosh through the forest, wading through mud and shit in order to hunt was like a breath of better smelling air.
Iris was waiting to make her way out that morning simply because she was waiting on hee guest. She had gotten the missive a few days before and had been buzzed with excitement since. To have the princess of Athenia come and stay in her home? Explore and relax with her in a way that was not often warranted in her position? Takis had been very clear that Iris needed to be on her best behavior, and Iris herself had asserted that she knew Persephone well enough to know what would and would not be okay.
At least she hoped.
Iris had plans and horses prepared for those plans, as well as other activities the two of them could enjoy for the next few days. It was not often that Iris had company in her own home, so the lady was simply hoping that everything would be perfect. The fewer slip ups and mishaps they ran into, the better. Besides, part of her desperately wanted to ask about Aimias, of who she knew was still being sponsored by the royal family. But news was hard to come by out here and even though it had been some years since, part of her was still exceedingly curious about him.
It was hard not to be when one had left nearly everything behind. Even the man that had started to grip so tightly at her own heart.
But he was not the focus of the next few days. Iris' focus was the carriage trailing down the long, winding path to her estate. The princess inside was her ultimate focus and all of her attention would be given to the Princess Persephone. Gaios had already agreed to pick up her slack in terms of the work.
Stepping down the steps of the manor and onto the dirt path, Iris' simple chiton caught the breeze. She smoothed her hands down against the fabric, a smile lighting her lips in the sudden and sheer excitement to have her friend here and free of other distractions. As the carriage stopped and the driver slipped off his seat to open the door for the princess, Iris stepped forward, offering both of her hands to help Persephone down.
"My princess," Iris said smoothly in greeting, "I must say that I am elated that you made it in one piece. Welcome to Aetaea, and welcome to my home."
The forests of Aetaea were peaceful but flourishing this time of year. The late Praratios sunshine filtered down through budding leaves as the cooler air of winter all but disappeared in what seemed like a single night. Gone were the nights of being forced under heavy blankets and bedding just to stay warm. Spring had come at the break of the month and Iris, a young twenty-four year old, had come to bask in such a revelation. The first signs of spring meant that prey would be even more plentiful as creatures and beasts reproduced. If the deer had not had their fawns yet, they would soon be trailing Artemis' forests.
What Iris was most excited foe was the other, small creatures that would be scuttling from their winter homes to enjoy the warm sunlight and the drying of the wet winter weather that often brought too much rain and threatened to drown nearly everything in sight. To not be forced to slosh through the forest, wading through mud and shit in order to hunt was like a breath of better smelling air.
Iris was waiting to make her way out that morning simply because she was waiting on hee guest. She had gotten the missive a few days before and had been buzzed with excitement since. To have the princess of Athenia come and stay in her home? Explore and relax with her in a way that was not often warranted in her position? Takis had been very clear that Iris needed to be on her best behavior, and Iris herself had asserted that she knew Persephone well enough to know what would and would not be okay.
At least she hoped.
Iris had plans and horses prepared for those plans, as well as other activities the two of them could enjoy for the next few days. It was not often that Iris had company in her own home, so the lady was simply hoping that everything would be perfect. The fewer slip ups and mishaps they ran into, the better. Besides, part of her desperately wanted to ask about Aimias, of who she knew was still being sponsored by the royal family. But news was hard to come by out here and even though it had been some years since, part of her was still exceedingly curious about him.
It was hard not to be when one had left nearly everything behind. Even the man that had started to grip so tightly at her own heart.
But he was not the focus of the next few days. Iris' focus was the carriage trailing down the long, winding path to her estate. The princess inside was her ultimate focus and all of her attention would be given to the Princess Persephone. Gaios had already agreed to pick up her slack in terms of the work.
Stepping down the steps of the manor and onto the dirt path, Iris' simple chiton caught the breeze. She smoothed her hands down against the fabric, a smile lighting her lips in the sudden and sheer excitement to have her friend here and free of other distractions. As the carriage stopped and the driver slipped off his seat to open the door for the princess, Iris stepped forward, offering both of her hands to help Persephone down.
"My princess," Iris said smoothly in greeting, "I must say that I am elated that you made it in one piece. Welcome to Aetaea, and welcome to my home."
The journey to Aetaea was far from arduous but the serene journey also meant for a boring waste of time. A young woman of nineteen, Persephone might have been, but with her recent history handling matters of the kingdom, she felt and held herself in a manner befitting someone far older. She held a knowledge, experience and even the trauma of loss in her past within her mind and soul that aged her beyond her physical teenaged years.
Since the age of eleven, Persephone had attended Court and hosted the event on a weekly basis, with the aids of a few older noble ladies that her father trusted to be a good influence. From that point onwards - the death of her mother - she had always taken up the mantel of playing a maternal figure to her younger sister, who so desperately required the guidance of a female mind. As Persephone was aided by her mentors, she mentored her sister.
Then, in the last six months or so, her father had started to show signs of illness. Already grief-stricken at the loss of his wife and a momentary blip of passion he had held elsewhere in his feelings of loss and trial, Minas had left much of the every-day running of the Athenia to his eldest child. Already a fine scholar and a perfectionist in her administration skills by the age of fourteen, Persephone had been perfectly able to ensure the simple choices and paperwork to be carried out day by day, following the lead counsel of her father's devoted advisor Aimias. Yet in the last few months, such tasks had become more numerous; her days had become fuller and she had found more critical decisions or matters of politics coming to her desk before they had been within the sight of the king.
She was starting to take on his role in a more serious and significant way.
Yet, while her father was severely ill in terms of longevity, he was neither bed bound nor restricted in large ways. He was still very much the king, despite any additional support he required her to take on in his moments of weakness.
And now, it had been he who had demanded a return of the favour.
With the anniversary of her mother's death just a month past, Persephone had been working herself of late into the ground, spending long hours in her study and chambers, ensuring that minimalistic tasks that had been left to wait for months at a time, were completed regardless of urgency. She had guaranteed herself to have no personal leisure time for the last few weeks.
And Aimias had noticed.
After a quick word to her father, it had been decided that Persephone was to leave the capitol. For, if she could not be trusted to take some much-needed rest and leisure time of her own within the palace then she was to be removed from her responsibilities entirely and seek out such relaxation somewhere else.
When presented with the options to hand, Persephone had volunteered to spend a few days with her long-distanced friend the Lady Iris. A young woman whom Persephone had known in a shallow way - aware of her existence in the Athenian Court and happen to converse with her over simple pleasantries - it had not been until Iris had left the capitol that Persephone and she had formed a bond far closer to that of friendship.
With her leaving the capitol in order to tend to her father and his ill health, Persephone had found the correspondence with the baron of Aetaea changing its hand-writing, and suddenly speaking in a manner reminiscent of the polite and elegant young woman that she had vaguely known before Iris' departure. It hadn't been long before each of them knew exactly whom they were speaking with; both offering a hand and voice to their paternal figures.
Since then, they had continued a correspondence that went perhaps beyond the norm between princess and baron, and so developed a liking for one another. It was with this in mind that Persephone had chosen to visit Aetaea for her imposed holiday from royal duties.
The journey to the province itself was hardly daunting and made of smooth roads and winding ways. The weather had maintained a cool, crisp and surprisingly warm tone that resisted any urge of rain. And the entire voyage by carriage had been uneventful. Which only served to irritate Persephone, for she was a practical person who enjoyed making the best use of her time. Time that was being wilfully taken from her and banned from being applied to anything close to regal responsibilities.
As this would be the first time since their developing relation that they were in each other's physical company for any real length of time, however, Persephone did at least have the torment of uncertainty to keep her mind occupied during the ride; joyous as that was.
But when her ride pulled into the manor lands of the Argyris familiar, drew to a stop and her door opened by the driver, it was with a single look at the welcome upon the Lady Iris' features that had Persephone's worries dissipating almost immediately. Tiresome as the journey there had been, in that moment, Persephone felt a spark of optimism that her father and counsel had been right, and a break from her civil duties was exactly what her mind and body needed.
"Lady Iris..." Persephone greeted, by way of her name, her features brightening into a soft smile. "The journey was of no comment or merit but certainly not a strain." She said, gladly accepting one of the offered hands to lend her support, as she stepped down to the ground. Her grace and poise - an elegance that some claimed to be so perfect it must be a gift from the Gods - ensured that she was able to find her feet upon the ground without a wobble or slip.
"Thank you." Persephone said as she was careful to ensure that the pale blue of her full-length chiton did not dirty or become trapped beneath her feet. "I am sure I shall feel nothing but such welcome in my stay." Her expression was bright and open, showing confidence in the Lady being able to offer what so many guests wished to: true comfort and relaxation.
The guest in this scenario, Persephone allowed herself to be guided to the ground and then stood with hands folded demurely in front of her, as the driver of her cart was able to produce a trunk that had been formerly attached to its back, ready to settle her things inside. Persephone, for her part, turned to look upon the manor that bore the coat of Argyris arms above its main entry way and felt her features gentling with pleasure. "Your home is lovely." She told the Lady Iris, turning her gaze back to her host. "Refined but not a museum of dismissive beauty, I think." She looked forward to seeing if its inside chambers were as settling as its external walls...
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 journey to Aetaea was far from arduous but the serene journey also meant for a boring waste of time. A young woman of nineteen, Persephone might have been, but with her recent history handling matters of the kingdom, she felt and held herself in a manner befitting someone far older. She held a knowledge, experience and even the trauma of loss in her past within her mind and soul that aged her beyond her physical teenaged years.
Since the age of eleven, Persephone had attended Court and hosted the event on a weekly basis, with the aids of a few older noble ladies that her father trusted to be a good influence. From that point onwards - the death of her mother - she had always taken up the mantel of playing a maternal figure to her younger sister, who so desperately required the guidance of a female mind. As Persephone was aided by her mentors, she mentored her sister.
Then, in the last six months or so, her father had started to show signs of illness. Already grief-stricken at the loss of his wife and a momentary blip of passion he had held elsewhere in his feelings of loss and trial, Minas had left much of the every-day running of the Athenia to his eldest child. Already a fine scholar and a perfectionist in her administration skills by the age of fourteen, Persephone had been perfectly able to ensure the simple choices and paperwork to be carried out day by day, following the lead counsel of her father's devoted advisor Aimias. Yet in the last few months, such tasks had become more numerous; her days had become fuller and she had found more critical decisions or matters of politics coming to her desk before they had been within the sight of the king.
She was starting to take on his role in a more serious and significant way.
Yet, while her father was severely ill in terms of longevity, he was neither bed bound nor restricted in large ways. He was still very much the king, despite any additional support he required her to take on in his moments of weakness.
And now, it had been he who had demanded a return of the favour.
With the anniversary of her mother's death just a month past, Persephone had been working herself of late into the ground, spending long hours in her study and chambers, ensuring that minimalistic tasks that had been left to wait for months at a time, were completed regardless of urgency. She had guaranteed herself to have no personal leisure time for the last few weeks.
And Aimias had noticed.
After a quick word to her father, it had been decided that Persephone was to leave the capitol. For, if she could not be trusted to take some much-needed rest and leisure time of her own within the palace then she was to be removed from her responsibilities entirely and seek out such relaxation somewhere else.
When presented with the options to hand, Persephone had volunteered to spend a few days with her long-distanced friend the Lady Iris. A young woman whom Persephone had known in a shallow way - aware of her existence in the Athenian Court and happen to converse with her over simple pleasantries - it had not been until Iris had left the capitol that Persephone and she had formed a bond far closer to that of friendship.
With her leaving the capitol in order to tend to her father and his ill health, Persephone had found the correspondence with the baron of Aetaea changing its hand-writing, and suddenly speaking in a manner reminiscent of the polite and elegant young woman that she had vaguely known before Iris' departure. It hadn't been long before each of them knew exactly whom they were speaking with; both offering a hand and voice to their paternal figures.
Since then, they had continued a correspondence that went perhaps beyond the norm between princess and baron, and so developed a liking for one another. It was with this in mind that Persephone had chosen to visit Aetaea for her imposed holiday from royal duties.
The journey to the province itself was hardly daunting and made of smooth roads and winding ways. The weather had maintained a cool, crisp and surprisingly warm tone that resisted any urge of rain. And the entire voyage by carriage had been uneventful. Which only served to irritate Persephone, for she was a practical person who enjoyed making the best use of her time. Time that was being wilfully taken from her and banned from being applied to anything close to regal responsibilities.
As this would be the first time since their developing relation that they were in each other's physical company for any real length of time, however, Persephone did at least have the torment of uncertainty to keep her mind occupied during the ride; joyous as that was.
But when her ride pulled into the manor lands of the Argyris familiar, drew to a stop and her door opened by the driver, it was with a single look at the welcome upon the Lady Iris' features that had Persephone's worries dissipating almost immediately. Tiresome as the journey there had been, in that moment, Persephone felt a spark of optimism that her father and counsel had been right, and a break from her civil duties was exactly what her mind and body needed.
"Lady Iris..." Persephone greeted, by way of her name, her features brightening into a soft smile. "The journey was of no comment or merit but certainly not a strain." She said, gladly accepting one of the offered hands to lend her support, as she stepped down to the ground. Her grace and poise - an elegance that some claimed to be so perfect it must be a gift from the Gods - ensured that she was able to find her feet upon the ground without a wobble or slip.
"Thank you." Persephone said as she was careful to ensure that the pale blue of her full-length chiton did not dirty or become trapped beneath her feet. "I am sure I shall feel nothing but such welcome in my stay." Her expression was bright and open, showing confidence in the Lady being able to offer what so many guests wished to: true comfort and relaxation.
The guest in this scenario, Persephone allowed herself to be guided to the ground and then stood with hands folded demurely in front of her, as the driver of her cart was able to produce a trunk that had been formerly attached to its back, ready to settle her things inside. Persephone, for her part, turned to look upon the manor that bore the coat of Argyris arms above its main entry way and felt her features gentling with pleasure. "Your home is lovely." She told the Lady Iris, turning her gaze back to her host. "Refined but not a museum of dismissive beauty, I think." She looked forward to seeing if its inside chambers were as settling as its external walls...
The journey to Aetaea was far from arduous but the serene journey also meant for a boring waste of time. A young woman of nineteen, Persephone might have been, but with her recent history handling matters of the kingdom, she felt and held herself in a manner befitting someone far older. She held a knowledge, experience and even the trauma of loss in her past within her mind and soul that aged her beyond her physical teenaged years.
Since the age of eleven, Persephone had attended Court and hosted the event on a weekly basis, with the aids of a few older noble ladies that her father trusted to be a good influence. From that point onwards - the death of her mother - she had always taken up the mantel of playing a maternal figure to her younger sister, who so desperately required the guidance of a female mind. As Persephone was aided by her mentors, she mentored her sister.
Then, in the last six months or so, her father had started to show signs of illness. Already grief-stricken at the loss of his wife and a momentary blip of passion he had held elsewhere in his feelings of loss and trial, Minas had left much of the every-day running of the Athenia to his eldest child. Already a fine scholar and a perfectionist in her administration skills by the age of fourteen, Persephone had been perfectly able to ensure the simple choices and paperwork to be carried out day by day, following the lead counsel of her father's devoted advisor Aimias. Yet in the last few months, such tasks had become more numerous; her days had become fuller and she had found more critical decisions or matters of politics coming to her desk before they had been within the sight of the king.
She was starting to take on his role in a more serious and significant way.
Yet, while her father was severely ill in terms of longevity, he was neither bed bound nor restricted in large ways. He was still very much the king, despite any additional support he required her to take on in his moments of weakness.
And now, it had been he who had demanded a return of the favour.
With the anniversary of her mother's death just a month past, Persephone had been working herself of late into the ground, spending long hours in her study and chambers, ensuring that minimalistic tasks that had been left to wait for months at a time, were completed regardless of urgency. She had guaranteed herself to have no personal leisure time for the last few weeks.
And Aimias had noticed.
After a quick word to her father, it had been decided that Persephone was to leave the capitol. For, if she could not be trusted to take some much-needed rest and leisure time of her own within the palace then she was to be removed from her responsibilities entirely and seek out such relaxation somewhere else.
When presented with the options to hand, Persephone had volunteered to spend a few days with her long-distanced friend the Lady Iris. A young woman whom Persephone had known in a shallow way - aware of her existence in the Athenian Court and happen to converse with her over simple pleasantries - it had not been until Iris had left the capitol that Persephone and she had formed a bond far closer to that of friendship.
With her leaving the capitol in order to tend to her father and his ill health, Persephone had found the correspondence with the baron of Aetaea changing its hand-writing, and suddenly speaking in a manner reminiscent of the polite and elegant young woman that she had vaguely known before Iris' departure. It hadn't been long before each of them knew exactly whom they were speaking with; both offering a hand and voice to their paternal figures.
Since then, they had continued a correspondence that went perhaps beyond the norm between princess and baron, and so developed a liking for one another. It was with this in mind that Persephone had chosen to visit Aetaea for her imposed holiday from royal duties.
The journey to the province itself was hardly daunting and made of smooth roads and winding ways. The weather had maintained a cool, crisp and surprisingly warm tone that resisted any urge of rain. And the entire voyage by carriage had been uneventful. Which only served to irritate Persephone, for she was a practical person who enjoyed making the best use of her time. Time that was being wilfully taken from her and banned from being applied to anything close to regal responsibilities.
As this would be the first time since their developing relation that they were in each other's physical company for any real length of time, however, Persephone did at least have the torment of uncertainty to keep her mind occupied during the ride; joyous as that was.
But when her ride pulled into the manor lands of the Argyris familiar, drew to a stop and her door opened by the driver, it was with a single look at the welcome upon the Lady Iris' features that had Persephone's worries dissipating almost immediately. Tiresome as the journey there had been, in that moment, Persephone felt a spark of optimism that her father and counsel had been right, and a break from her civil duties was exactly what her mind and body needed.
"Lady Iris..." Persephone greeted, by way of her name, her features brightening into a soft smile. "The journey was of no comment or merit but certainly not a strain." She said, gladly accepting one of the offered hands to lend her support, as she stepped down to the ground. Her grace and poise - an elegance that some claimed to be so perfect it must be a gift from the Gods - ensured that she was able to find her feet upon the ground without a wobble or slip.
"Thank you." Persephone said as she was careful to ensure that the pale blue of her full-length chiton did not dirty or become trapped beneath her feet. "I am sure I shall feel nothing but such welcome in my stay." Her expression was bright and open, showing confidence in the Lady being able to offer what so many guests wished to: true comfort and relaxation.
The guest in this scenario, Persephone allowed herself to be guided to the ground and then stood with hands folded demurely in front of her, as the driver of her cart was able to produce a trunk that had been formerly attached to its back, ready to settle her things inside. Persephone, for her part, turned to look upon the manor that bore the coat of Argyris arms above its main entry way and felt her features gentling with pleasure. "Your home is lovely." She told the Lady Iris, turning her gaze back to her host. "Refined but not a museum of dismissive beauty, I think." She looked forward to seeing if its inside chambers were as settling as its external walls...
If Iris had any reservations about this visit from the princess, they had fully dissipated now. Much to Iris' relief, Princess Persephone seemed inclined to be kind and sweetened in nature. Much was the same as the letters that the two of them had long exchanging between them. Truth be told, the last time she had had a visitor in her home, things had gone... amazingly well. But the fall out from her relationship with Elias still hung heavily on her mind.
To have a friend here to chase away the shadows and sadness from the corners of the manor was much welcomed. Having helped Persephone to the ground, Iris smiled and gave another proper bow to the princess. "I am pleased to know that the journey was not a hard one. Sometimes it feels much more taxing than it truly is."
And welcome was what Iris wanted Princess Persephone to feel. Because she was welcomed and valued here. All of the servants had been giddy at the prospect of having the young woman walk the same halls of them, sharing in the consumption of their meals, and just her general presence. What Iris hoped they realized was that she did not want to bear witness to them fawning over the princess. They could gush about her in private when they did not have jobs to do.
"Of course, my lady," Iris said with sweet ease as they stepped into the manor home. Iris always felt more welcome here than anywhere else. This had been the home that her father had built for her mother after they had first married. Iris was meticulous about its upkeep, and such attention to detail always pleased Takis to an extent that made Iris feel valued. "I have arranged for a sizable room for you and any others you may require for your ladies- oh..." Iris paused, turning to glance behind her, "Have you come alone, Princess Persephone? No ladies accompany you?" Or was she simply blind? Wasn't it unusual for a princess to travel anywhere without even a few members of her entourage?
The compliment to her home was not missed and Iris glanced up toward the coat of arms above the archway with a smile. "The home was built for my mother. She was so set against the gaudy, over the top manors of other lords and ladies. My father thought a home that was closer to the nature of our location would be more fitting. He chose the edge of Artemis' forests so that we might find our prayer in the thick of her territory rather than simply upon an altar," Iris explained quietly, leading her up and into the home.
The interior was even warmer and welcoming in nature than the exterior. A mix of green marble, stone, and dark hardwood, the inside was not decorated for the sake of showing off a collection of art. The entryway was decorated in a way that was practical rather than eye-catching. Humble, rather than stunning. That in and of itself was more stunning than anything. It made the entire home feel more welcoming rather than cold, a stark contrast to many of the homes of their peers.
Acantha met them at the doors, her smile brightening her features. Dropping into a bow, Acantha then rose back to her full height. "Your highness," she said softly in greeting, "May I take your trunk to your rooms? What of your cloak?" she questioned carefully, her blue eyes bright. They only flicked to Iris once, her nerves clear in the fact that they had never had a visitor such as this within these halls.
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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If Iris had any reservations about this visit from the princess, they had fully dissipated now. Much to Iris' relief, Princess Persephone seemed inclined to be kind and sweetened in nature. Much was the same as the letters that the two of them had long exchanging between them. Truth be told, the last time she had had a visitor in her home, things had gone... amazingly well. But the fall out from her relationship with Elias still hung heavily on her mind.
To have a friend here to chase away the shadows and sadness from the corners of the manor was much welcomed. Having helped Persephone to the ground, Iris smiled and gave another proper bow to the princess. "I am pleased to know that the journey was not a hard one. Sometimes it feels much more taxing than it truly is."
And welcome was what Iris wanted Princess Persephone to feel. Because she was welcomed and valued here. All of the servants had been giddy at the prospect of having the young woman walk the same halls of them, sharing in the consumption of their meals, and just her general presence. What Iris hoped they realized was that she did not want to bear witness to them fawning over the princess. They could gush about her in private when they did not have jobs to do.
"Of course, my lady," Iris said with sweet ease as they stepped into the manor home. Iris always felt more welcome here than anywhere else. This had been the home that her father had built for her mother after they had first married. Iris was meticulous about its upkeep, and such attention to detail always pleased Takis to an extent that made Iris feel valued. "I have arranged for a sizable room for you and any others you may require for your ladies- oh..." Iris paused, turning to glance behind her, "Have you come alone, Princess Persephone? No ladies accompany you?" Or was she simply blind? Wasn't it unusual for a princess to travel anywhere without even a few members of her entourage?
The compliment to her home was not missed and Iris glanced up toward the coat of arms above the archway with a smile. "The home was built for my mother. She was so set against the gaudy, over the top manors of other lords and ladies. My father thought a home that was closer to the nature of our location would be more fitting. He chose the edge of Artemis' forests so that we might find our prayer in the thick of her territory rather than simply upon an altar," Iris explained quietly, leading her up and into the home.
The interior was even warmer and welcoming in nature than the exterior. A mix of green marble, stone, and dark hardwood, the inside was not decorated for the sake of showing off a collection of art. The entryway was decorated in a way that was practical rather than eye-catching. Humble, rather than stunning. That in and of itself was more stunning than anything. It made the entire home feel more welcoming rather than cold, a stark contrast to many of the homes of their peers.
Acantha met them at the doors, her smile brightening her features. Dropping into a bow, Acantha then rose back to her full height. "Your highness," she said softly in greeting, "May I take your trunk to your rooms? What of your cloak?" she questioned carefully, her blue eyes bright. They only flicked to Iris once, her nerves clear in the fact that they had never had a visitor such as this within these halls.
If Iris had any reservations about this visit from the princess, they had fully dissipated now. Much to Iris' relief, Princess Persephone seemed inclined to be kind and sweetened in nature. Much was the same as the letters that the two of them had long exchanging between them. Truth be told, the last time she had had a visitor in her home, things had gone... amazingly well. But the fall out from her relationship with Elias still hung heavily on her mind.
To have a friend here to chase away the shadows and sadness from the corners of the manor was much welcomed. Having helped Persephone to the ground, Iris smiled and gave another proper bow to the princess. "I am pleased to know that the journey was not a hard one. Sometimes it feels much more taxing than it truly is."
And welcome was what Iris wanted Princess Persephone to feel. Because she was welcomed and valued here. All of the servants had been giddy at the prospect of having the young woman walk the same halls of them, sharing in the consumption of their meals, and just her general presence. What Iris hoped they realized was that she did not want to bear witness to them fawning over the princess. They could gush about her in private when they did not have jobs to do.
"Of course, my lady," Iris said with sweet ease as they stepped into the manor home. Iris always felt more welcome here than anywhere else. This had been the home that her father had built for her mother after they had first married. Iris was meticulous about its upkeep, and such attention to detail always pleased Takis to an extent that made Iris feel valued. "I have arranged for a sizable room for you and any others you may require for your ladies- oh..." Iris paused, turning to glance behind her, "Have you come alone, Princess Persephone? No ladies accompany you?" Or was she simply blind? Wasn't it unusual for a princess to travel anywhere without even a few members of her entourage?
The compliment to her home was not missed and Iris glanced up toward the coat of arms above the archway with a smile. "The home was built for my mother. She was so set against the gaudy, over the top manors of other lords and ladies. My father thought a home that was closer to the nature of our location would be more fitting. He chose the edge of Artemis' forests so that we might find our prayer in the thick of her territory rather than simply upon an altar," Iris explained quietly, leading her up and into the home.
The interior was even warmer and welcoming in nature than the exterior. A mix of green marble, stone, and dark hardwood, the inside was not decorated for the sake of showing off a collection of art. The entryway was decorated in a way that was practical rather than eye-catching. Humble, rather than stunning. That in and of itself was more stunning than anything. It made the entire home feel more welcoming rather than cold, a stark contrast to many of the homes of their peers.
Acantha met them at the doors, her smile brightening her features. Dropping into a bow, Acantha then rose back to her full height. "Your highness," she said softly in greeting, "May I take your trunk to your rooms? What of your cloak?" she questioned carefully, her blue eyes bright. They only flicked to Iris once, her nerves clear in the fact that they had never had a visitor such as this within these halls.
"I travelled in a single journey that I decided was unrequiring of anything beyond my carriagemen who double as trained guards." She responded to Iris' valid query when she appeared surprised that Persephone was alone within the covered cart. "I assured my father that the House of Argyris would be perfectly prepared in permitting me some maids to tend to my care." Her eyes sparked with challenge, the words - Was I wrong? hanging in the look as her friendship with the woman had her shields of decorum dropping a little and her natural cheek coming through.
The Lady Iris was kindness and politeness itself but it was clear to Persephone that she and her home were not used to how to operate around a royal houseguest. She spoke with a questioning tone which was not usually done - for the royal family were assumed to be the ones in the know and their behaviour the acceptable means of things regardless of how odd it appeared - and her lady's maid, once they were inside the manor, appeared eager to help without the robust knowledge on how to do so.
Neither such practices offended the princess, for Persephone, after being forced to accept a period of relaxation away from the capitol, had yielded to the instruction with an enthusiasm that would see it not wasted. And surely to truly relax away from the trials of her duties as a princess, it could only aid in the effort to not be treated like one?
Smiling with a kindness of lip but a sharpness of eye that suggested Persephone was well aware that those who hosted her were not walking the perfect line of royal cordiality, but also the compassion that said she did not mind, Persephone removed her cloak herself - rather than wait for the young woman to do it for her - and reached to remove it from her shoulders. She handed it over the statuesque beauty and gave a nod of thanks when it was taken from her hands.
"If you would not mind showing my guardsman where I'll be staying, he'll be able to take it, for it is a little heavy." Persephone suggested, her hand gesturing towards the man that lingered outside, the trunk at his feet.
She then turned her attention to the manor house itself.
Whilst the estate was not of Persephone's tastes, for she liked open space, plenty of light and the palest and purest of colours, she could well understand the hallway she had entered into being a welcoming and comforting environment in which to live.
A little darker than she was perhaps used to, only for the size of the corridors and chambers, the walls were a pretty colour that mottled as the marble changed between mint green and malachite. The floors were wooden to work with their surroundings and the was no fanciful art or excessive decor. Everything was perfectly clean or polished to a high shine and was clearly well taken care of.
In short, Persephone liked it.
"Your home is... warm." She said with a soft smile towards her friend, hoping that she would take the singular word as the compliment it was and not simply a comment on temperature to disguise the absence of any other flattering adjective.
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"I travelled in a single journey that I decided was unrequiring of anything beyond my carriagemen who double as trained guards." She responded to Iris' valid query when she appeared surprised that Persephone was alone within the covered cart. "I assured my father that the House of Argyris would be perfectly prepared in permitting me some maids to tend to my care." Her eyes sparked with challenge, the words - Was I wrong? hanging in the look as her friendship with the woman had her shields of decorum dropping a little and her natural cheek coming through.
The Lady Iris was kindness and politeness itself but it was clear to Persephone that she and her home were not used to how to operate around a royal houseguest. She spoke with a questioning tone which was not usually done - for the royal family were assumed to be the ones in the know and their behaviour the acceptable means of things regardless of how odd it appeared - and her lady's maid, once they were inside the manor, appeared eager to help without the robust knowledge on how to do so.
Neither such practices offended the princess, for Persephone, after being forced to accept a period of relaxation away from the capitol, had yielded to the instruction with an enthusiasm that would see it not wasted. And surely to truly relax away from the trials of her duties as a princess, it could only aid in the effort to not be treated like one?
Smiling with a kindness of lip but a sharpness of eye that suggested Persephone was well aware that those who hosted her were not walking the perfect line of royal cordiality, but also the compassion that said she did not mind, Persephone removed her cloak herself - rather than wait for the young woman to do it for her - and reached to remove it from her shoulders. She handed it over the statuesque beauty and gave a nod of thanks when it was taken from her hands.
"If you would not mind showing my guardsman where I'll be staying, he'll be able to take it, for it is a little heavy." Persephone suggested, her hand gesturing towards the man that lingered outside, the trunk at his feet.
She then turned her attention to the manor house itself.
Whilst the estate was not of Persephone's tastes, for she liked open space, plenty of light and the palest and purest of colours, she could well understand the hallway she had entered into being a welcoming and comforting environment in which to live.
A little darker than she was perhaps used to, only for the size of the corridors and chambers, the walls were a pretty colour that mottled as the marble changed between mint green and malachite. The floors were wooden to work with their surroundings and the was no fanciful art or excessive decor. Everything was perfectly clean or polished to a high shine and was clearly well taken care of.
In short, Persephone liked it.
"Your home is... warm." She said with a soft smile towards her friend, hoping that she would take the singular word as the compliment it was and not simply a comment on temperature to disguise the absence of any other flattering adjective.
"I travelled in a single journey that I decided was unrequiring of anything beyond my carriagemen who double as trained guards." She responded to Iris' valid query when she appeared surprised that Persephone was alone within the covered cart. "I assured my father that the House of Argyris would be perfectly prepared in permitting me some maids to tend to my care." Her eyes sparked with challenge, the words - Was I wrong? hanging in the look as her friendship with the woman had her shields of decorum dropping a little and her natural cheek coming through.
The Lady Iris was kindness and politeness itself but it was clear to Persephone that she and her home were not used to how to operate around a royal houseguest. She spoke with a questioning tone which was not usually done - for the royal family were assumed to be the ones in the know and their behaviour the acceptable means of things regardless of how odd it appeared - and her lady's maid, once they were inside the manor, appeared eager to help without the robust knowledge on how to do so.
Neither such practices offended the princess, for Persephone, after being forced to accept a period of relaxation away from the capitol, had yielded to the instruction with an enthusiasm that would see it not wasted. And surely to truly relax away from the trials of her duties as a princess, it could only aid in the effort to not be treated like one?
Smiling with a kindness of lip but a sharpness of eye that suggested Persephone was well aware that those who hosted her were not walking the perfect line of royal cordiality, but also the compassion that said she did not mind, Persephone removed her cloak herself - rather than wait for the young woman to do it for her - and reached to remove it from her shoulders. She handed it over the statuesque beauty and gave a nod of thanks when it was taken from her hands.
"If you would not mind showing my guardsman where I'll be staying, he'll be able to take it, for it is a little heavy." Persephone suggested, her hand gesturing towards the man that lingered outside, the trunk at his feet.
She then turned her attention to the manor house itself.
Whilst the estate was not of Persephone's tastes, for she liked open space, plenty of light and the palest and purest of colours, she could well understand the hallway she had entered into being a welcoming and comforting environment in which to live.
A little darker than she was perhaps used to, only for the size of the corridors and chambers, the walls were a pretty colour that mottled as the marble changed between mint green and malachite. The floors were wooden to work with their surroundings and the was no fanciful art or excessive decor. Everything was perfectly clean or polished to a high shine and was clearly well taken care of.
In short, Persephone liked it.
"Your home is... warm." She said with a soft smile towards her friend, hoping that she would take the singular word as the compliment it was and not simply a comment on temperature to disguise the absence of any other flattering adjective.
iris could have flinched for the few ways that Persephone seemed to silently point out that she was failing. In the ways of royal propriety she was not so versed. Each glance or smirk was light a sharp slap of a reminder that she was truly nothing better than a wild girl who struggled with propriety at any time of her life. She wasn't going to show the wounded temperament that she felt, even though she understood her guest to be teasing her. To her, it seemed more like a royal chastising her for not being fully and completely prepared, nor knowledgable of the complete steps she was required to take to welcome someone of Persephone's rank.
Keeping a mask of complete calm and consideration on her features, Iris smoothed her hands down the front of her chiton, letting her gaze flick to Acantha as if to order her to take Persephone's cloack. Acantha seemed to realize her misstep and quickly reached for the garment, trying to keep her nerves composed, even though her cheeks flushed just slightly out of sheer embarrassment. She took Persephone's question to show her guardsmen the room she would be staying in, nodding quickly. "Of course. This way," Acantha said quickly, hanging up the cloak and then motioning for the men to follow her.
With Iris and Persephone alone, Iris gave a bit of a weak smile. "I seem so ill prepared now," the lady said softly, "I can spare some maids, of course. And Acantha if you wish," Iris offered her softly. Honestly, she hadn't expected to get the princess all to herself for this visit. That was such a strange thing to think about. She had been expecting other ladies to have attended with her, and to now not have to compete for attention would be rather relaxing. Besides, the plans that Iris had for the two of them would have been far more complicated with so many women in one house. Then again, Iris thought of the other roms she had prepared for guests and simply told herself that they had just been cleaned and that was okay.
Iris observed her friend observing the hall that she stood in. She didn't realize that she was holding in a breath until the princess complimented the home. Then, a bright smile flit across Iris' features and she turned about to look at the house with the eyes of someone who may have not noticed out absolutely stunning the construction was. She had, after all, spent most of her life in this house. "I thank you, my princess," Iris offered her her arm slowly, her features still bright and happy at the compliment. Maybe things would go well. Maybe the previous moments were just Iris being overwhelmingly nervous.
"May I give you a tour of the home?" Iris asked lightly, letting the two of them loop arms together once the princess affirmed that yes, they could wander about the house. Walking together, Iris bypassed the dining room, kitchens, and sitting room for now. Instead, they first entered the library, with shelves and shelves of books and rolled scrolls, klines, and warm fur rugs. This room was a little more decorated than the rest of the house, boasting some beautiful pieces of art that both Iris and Takis favored and took great care of.
"This is my favorite room in the manor. It was my mother's library," she murmured, "I've added books of my own, but many of these were hers. I've tried to read most of them," Iris admitted with a smile at her friend. "You're welcome to help yourself if reading something that you might wish to do to relax while here."
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iris could have flinched for the few ways that Persephone seemed to silently point out that she was failing. In the ways of royal propriety she was not so versed. Each glance or smirk was light a sharp slap of a reminder that she was truly nothing better than a wild girl who struggled with propriety at any time of her life. She wasn't going to show the wounded temperament that she felt, even though she understood her guest to be teasing her. To her, it seemed more like a royal chastising her for not being fully and completely prepared, nor knowledgable of the complete steps she was required to take to welcome someone of Persephone's rank.
Keeping a mask of complete calm and consideration on her features, Iris smoothed her hands down the front of her chiton, letting her gaze flick to Acantha as if to order her to take Persephone's cloack. Acantha seemed to realize her misstep and quickly reached for the garment, trying to keep her nerves composed, even though her cheeks flushed just slightly out of sheer embarrassment. She took Persephone's question to show her guardsmen the room she would be staying in, nodding quickly. "Of course. This way," Acantha said quickly, hanging up the cloak and then motioning for the men to follow her.
With Iris and Persephone alone, Iris gave a bit of a weak smile. "I seem so ill prepared now," the lady said softly, "I can spare some maids, of course. And Acantha if you wish," Iris offered her softly. Honestly, she hadn't expected to get the princess all to herself for this visit. That was such a strange thing to think about. She had been expecting other ladies to have attended with her, and to now not have to compete for attention would be rather relaxing. Besides, the plans that Iris had for the two of them would have been far more complicated with so many women in one house. Then again, Iris thought of the other roms she had prepared for guests and simply told herself that they had just been cleaned and that was okay.
Iris observed her friend observing the hall that she stood in. She didn't realize that she was holding in a breath until the princess complimented the home. Then, a bright smile flit across Iris' features and she turned about to look at the house with the eyes of someone who may have not noticed out absolutely stunning the construction was. She had, after all, spent most of her life in this house. "I thank you, my princess," Iris offered her her arm slowly, her features still bright and happy at the compliment. Maybe things would go well. Maybe the previous moments were just Iris being overwhelmingly nervous.
"May I give you a tour of the home?" Iris asked lightly, letting the two of them loop arms together once the princess affirmed that yes, they could wander about the house. Walking together, Iris bypassed the dining room, kitchens, and sitting room for now. Instead, they first entered the library, with shelves and shelves of books and rolled scrolls, klines, and warm fur rugs. This room was a little more decorated than the rest of the house, boasting some beautiful pieces of art that both Iris and Takis favored and took great care of.
"This is my favorite room in the manor. It was my mother's library," she murmured, "I've added books of my own, but many of these were hers. I've tried to read most of them," Iris admitted with a smile at her friend. "You're welcome to help yourself if reading something that you might wish to do to relax while here."
iris could have flinched for the few ways that Persephone seemed to silently point out that she was failing. In the ways of royal propriety she was not so versed. Each glance or smirk was light a sharp slap of a reminder that she was truly nothing better than a wild girl who struggled with propriety at any time of her life. She wasn't going to show the wounded temperament that she felt, even though she understood her guest to be teasing her. To her, it seemed more like a royal chastising her for not being fully and completely prepared, nor knowledgable of the complete steps she was required to take to welcome someone of Persephone's rank.
Keeping a mask of complete calm and consideration on her features, Iris smoothed her hands down the front of her chiton, letting her gaze flick to Acantha as if to order her to take Persephone's cloack. Acantha seemed to realize her misstep and quickly reached for the garment, trying to keep her nerves composed, even though her cheeks flushed just slightly out of sheer embarrassment. She took Persephone's question to show her guardsmen the room she would be staying in, nodding quickly. "Of course. This way," Acantha said quickly, hanging up the cloak and then motioning for the men to follow her.
With Iris and Persephone alone, Iris gave a bit of a weak smile. "I seem so ill prepared now," the lady said softly, "I can spare some maids, of course. And Acantha if you wish," Iris offered her softly. Honestly, she hadn't expected to get the princess all to herself for this visit. That was such a strange thing to think about. She had been expecting other ladies to have attended with her, and to now not have to compete for attention would be rather relaxing. Besides, the plans that Iris had for the two of them would have been far more complicated with so many women in one house. Then again, Iris thought of the other roms she had prepared for guests and simply told herself that they had just been cleaned and that was okay.
Iris observed her friend observing the hall that she stood in. She didn't realize that she was holding in a breath until the princess complimented the home. Then, a bright smile flit across Iris' features and she turned about to look at the house with the eyes of someone who may have not noticed out absolutely stunning the construction was. She had, after all, spent most of her life in this house. "I thank you, my princess," Iris offered her her arm slowly, her features still bright and happy at the compliment. Maybe things would go well. Maybe the previous moments were just Iris being overwhelmingly nervous.
"May I give you a tour of the home?" Iris asked lightly, letting the two of them loop arms together once the princess affirmed that yes, they could wander about the house. Walking together, Iris bypassed the dining room, kitchens, and sitting room for now. Instead, they first entered the library, with shelves and shelves of books and rolled scrolls, klines, and warm fur rugs. This room was a little more decorated than the rest of the house, boasting some beautiful pieces of art that both Iris and Takis favored and took great care of.
"This is my favorite room in the manor. It was my mother's library," she murmured, "I've added books of my own, but many of these were hers. I've tried to read most of them," Iris admitted with a smile at her friend. "You're welcome to help yourself if reading something that you might wish to do to relax while here."
Persephone watched with an amused eye whilst her friend panicked that she had not allocated the right staff or preparations for her care and hospitality. Not meaning to be cruel, it went against all of Persephone's social training to allow her expectations to drop, her standards of acceptance to lower and her manner to become more casual, assuring Iris of the - genuine truth - that she was not at all offended. Instead, she simply watched the young woman make adjustments and lament that she seemed ill-prepared with an expression of kind patience and tried to convey to the girl through her eyes that she was not at all worried at the lacking of her reception. In fact, it was rather refreshing to not be greeted with excessive circumstance and eccentric means of greeting.
To Persephone, it read more as if the girl was genuinely eager for her visit as opposed to simply eager to see what her visit could do in order to secure wealth or favour from the royal family. She felt unflattered and unpampered to and therefore able to take Iris's smiles and the offer of an arm with genuine candour.
Looping her arm through the other woman's, as was natural for the ladies of the nobility, Persephone followed her footsteps and allowed herself to be guided around the house, assuring the woman that a tour would be more than welcome. It was nice to stretch one's legs after a long carriage ride after all.
Curious when the lady of the household bypassed the most common rooms for showing off to visitors - the large dining and hosting chambers - Persephone was eager to see what Iris deemed to be of more substance and importance than that and followed her willingly towards a chamber further back within the small estate.
What she was greeted with was a charming room full of shelves and cabinets. Within them were books, tomes, parchment rolls and clay records of all kinds. The walls were decorated with artefacts, pieces of art and a few ancient maps that drew her interest greatly. Persephone looked around the room with a slow observation of appreciation. Like the rest of the manor that she had seen so far, she warmed to this particular room greatly. It was cosy and felt as if the owner of it had shown it great love over the years.
When Iris explained that it had been her mother's library and that she had made an effort to attempt to read all the books within and had clearly cared for the place in its entirety the sensation of great affection was explained. She nodded a little when the girl offered her to read anything she desired.
"I have little time for reading." She said, in a low and thoughtful voice that seemed almost more to herself than to her hostess. "But I think it likely that I might come in here regardless of whether I have a book in my hands or not. It is a very... homey chamber." She said with a soft smile to make clear that the word was used as a compliment over something diminishing. "I can see you give a lot of your time to its upkeep." For there was no dust anywhere in the room - even on tomes that couldn't have been touched for many a year. Her eyes turned soft. "I understand the need to protect something that feels like a connection with your mother."
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Persephone watched with an amused eye whilst her friend panicked that she had not allocated the right staff or preparations for her care and hospitality. Not meaning to be cruel, it went against all of Persephone's social training to allow her expectations to drop, her standards of acceptance to lower and her manner to become more casual, assuring Iris of the - genuine truth - that she was not at all offended. Instead, she simply watched the young woman make adjustments and lament that she seemed ill-prepared with an expression of kind patience and tried to convey to the girl through her eyes that she was not at all worried at the lacking of her reception. In fact, it was rather refreshing to not be greeted with excessive circumstance and eccentric means of greeting.
To Persephone, it read more as if the girl was genuinely eager for her visit as opposed to simply eager to see what her visit could do in order to secure wealth or favour from the royal family. She felt unflattered and unpampered to and therefore able to take Iris's smiles and the offer of an arm with genuine candour.
Looping her arm through the other woman's, as was natural for the ladies of the nobility, Persephone followed her footsteps and allowed herself to be guided around the house, assuring the woman that a tour would be more than welcome. It was nice to stretch one's legs after a long carriage ride after all.
Curious when the lady of the household bypassed the most common rooms for showing off to visitors - the large dining and hosting chambers - Persephone was eager to see what Iris deemed to be of more substance and importance than that and followed her willingly towards a chamber further back within the small estate.
What she was greeted with was a charming room full of shelves and cabinets. Within them were books, tomes, parchment rolls and clay records of all kinds. The walls were decorated with artefacts, pieces of art and a few ancient maps that drew her interest greatly. Persephone looked around the room with a slow observation of appreciation. Like the rest of the manor that she had seen so far, she warmed to this particular room greatly. It was cosy and felt as if the owner of it had shown it great love over the years.
When Iris explained that it had been her mother's library and that she had made an effort to attempt to read all the books within and had clearly cared for the place in its entirety the sensation of great affection was explained. She nodded a little when the girl offered her to read anything she desired.
"I have little time for reading." She said, in a low and thoughtful voice that seemed almost more to herself than to her hostess. "But I think it likely that I might come in here regardless of whether I have a book in my hands or not. It is a very... homey chamber." She said with a soft smile to make clear that the word was used as a compliment over something diminishing. "I can see you give a lot of your time to its upkeep." For there was no dust anywhere in the room - even on tomes that couldn't have been touched for many a year. Her eyes turned soft. "I understand the need to protect something that feels like a connection with your mother."
Persephone watched with an amused eye whilst her friend panicked that she had not allocated the right staff or preparations for her care and hospitality. Not meaning to be cruel, it went against all of Persephone's social training to allow her expectations to drop, her standards of acceptance to lower and her manner to become more casual, assuring Iris of the - genuine truth - that she was not at all offended. Instead, she simply watched the young woman make adjustments and lament that she seemed ill-prepared with an expression of kind patience and tried to convey to the girl through her eyes that she was not at all worried at the lacking of her reception. In fact, it was rather refreshing to not be greeted with excessive circumstance and eccentric means of greeting.
To Persephone, it read more as if the girl was genuinely eager for her visit as opposed to simply eager to see what her visit could do in order to secure wealth or favour from the royal family. She felt unflattered and unpampered to and therefore able to take Iris's smiles and the offer of an arm with genuine candour.
Looping her arm through the other woman's, as was natural for the ladies of the nobility, Persephone followed her footsteps and allowed herself to be guided around the house, assuring the woman that a tour would be more than welcome. It was nice to stretch one's legs after a long carriage ride after all.
Curious when the lady of the household bypassed the most common rooms for showing off to visitors - the large dining and hosting chambers - Persephone was eager to see what Iris deemed to be of more substance and importance than that and followed her willingly towards a chamber further back within the small estate.
What she was greeted with was a charming room full of shelves and cabinets. Within them were books, tomes, parchment rolls and clay records of all kinds. The walls were decorated with artefacts, pieces of art and a few ancient maps that drew her interest greatly. Persephone looked around the room with a slow observation of appreciation. Like the rest of the manor that she had seen so far, she warmed to this particular room greatly. It was cosy and felt as if the owner of it had shown it great love over the years.
When Iris explained that it had been her mother's library and that she had made an effort to attempt to read all the books within and had clearly cared for the place in its entirety the sensation of great affection was explained. She nodded a little when the girl offered her to read anything she desired.
"I have little time for reading." She said, in a low and thoughtful voice that seemed almost more to herself than to her hostess. "But I think it likely that I might come in here regardless of whether I have a book in my hands or not. It is a very... homey chamber." She said with a soft smile to make clear that the word was used as a compliment over something diminishing. "I can see you give a lot of your time to its upkeep." For there was no dust anywhere in the room - even on tomes that couldn't have been touched for many a year. Her eyes turned soft. "I understand the need to protect something that feels like a connection with your mother."
Iris could gather that Persephone had meant nothing malicious in her gaze or the expectation that she be taken care of. That was her right as a royal of Athenia, the heiress to the throne, to be given the utmost care, even on an excursion as casual as this. Honestly, Iris hadn't cared one way or another whether Persphone could benefit or not. Admittedly, Iris had simply ben enthusiastic to spend time with the woman that she had spent so many years writing letters to. Back and forth, in the name of her father but with her own hand behind the pen.
It was refreshing to have quietly made a friend, even if that had not been the intention at first. It was equally refreshing to have someone visit the halls of her home once more. The last visitor had incited something carnal within her, and the lady was not going to lie and say she still wasn't trying to figure out what had truly happened. The way that that man had turned her head had been stunning. No one had had that power since Aimias, and no one likely would again. Iris was not so easily moved, especially when it came to love and relationships and her own agendas often superseded any want of affection or romance.
No, Iris was simply happy for the purely platonic nature of friendship that she and the princess could sew together. While the visit would not be entirely long, it would be long enough to let the princess find peace and relaxation. There would be no hustle, no bustle because Iris would never be rushed in her own home. Not unless extreme urgency required such things. Thus, the lady was so keen on simply showing Persephone the rooms of the home, wanting Persephone to realize that she was welcome in any room that she wished, even the ones that Iris had long lauded as private and solitary.
The lady was pleased by the reception of the library by the princess and Iris couldn't help but give an extremely shy smile as she glanced around the warm room. "You are very welcome in this room, your highness. I find this room much more welcoming than any dining room or den. I rarely allow people in here, but I trust you," she said slowly, her smile softening further at Persephone's comment about the cleanliness of the library. "This room holds more importance to me than anything else in this home. My mother never asked my father for much. She simply wanted to read and tend her gardens. That was it," Iris murmured softly.
"I never met her, but I feel close to her here. I feel like I know everything about her just from spending so much time in this room. There is a book on that shelf right there that is so worn that I can tell it was her favorite. That chair has always faced that vase," she pointed again, "And I know that she must have favored both the lighting and the art itself." There was a small pause and Iris tested the waters quietly, "Did you know your mother well, your highness?" she questioned, her brows furrowing a little with curiosity.
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Iris could gather that Persephone had meant nothing malicious in her gaze or the expectation that she be taken care of. That was her right as a royal of Athenia, the heiress to the throne, to be given the utmost care, even on an excursion as casual as this. Honestly, Iris hadn't cared one way or another whether Persphone could benefit or not. Admittedly, Iris had simply ben enthusiastic to spend time with the woman that she had spent so many years writing letters to. Back and forth, in the name of her father but with her own hand behind the pen.
It was refreshing to have quietly made a friend, even if that had not been the intention at first. It was equally refreshing to have someone visit the halls of her home once more. The last visitor had incited something carnal within her, and the lady was not going to lie and say she still wasn't trying to figure out what had truly happened. The way that that man had turned her head had been stunning. No one had had that power since Aimias, and no one likely would again. Iris was not so easily moved, especially when it came to love and relationships and her own agendas often superseded any want of affection or romance.
No, Iris was simply happy for the purely platonic nature of friendship that she and the princess could sew together. While the visit would not be entirely long, it would be long enough to let the princess find peace and relaxation. There would be no hustle, no bustle because Iris would never be rushed in her own home. Not unless extreme urgency required such things. Thus, the lady was so keen on simply showing Persephone the rooms of the home, wanting Persephone to realize that she was welcome in any room that she wished, even the ones that Iris had long lauded as private and solitary.
The lady was pleased by the reception of the library by the princess and Iris couldn't help but give an extremely shy smile as she glanced around the warm room. "You are very welcome in this room, your highness. I find this room much more welcoming than any dining room or den. I rarely allow people in here, but I trust you," she said slowly, her smile softening further at Persephone's comment about the cleanliness of the library. "This room holds more importance to me than anything else in this home. My mother never asked my father for much. She simply wanted to read and tend her gardens. That was it," Iris murmured softly.
"I never met her, but I feel close to her here. I feel like I know everything about her just from spending so much time in this room. There is a book on that shelf right there that is so worn that I can tell it was her favorite. That chair has always faced that vase," she pointed again, "And I know that she must have favored both the lighting and the art itself." There was a small pause and Iris tested the waters quietly, "Did you know your mother well, your highness?" she questioned, her brows furrowing a little with curiosity.
Iris could gather that Persephone had meant nothing malicious in her gaze or the expectation that she be taken care of. That was her right as a royal of Athenia, the heiress to the throne, to be given the utmost care, even on an excursion as casual as this. Honestly, Iris hadn't cared one way or another whether Persphone could benefit or not. Admittedly, Iris had simply ben enthusiastic to spend time with the woman that she had spent so many years writing letters to. Back and forth, in the name of her father but with her own hand behind the pen.
It was refreshing to have quietly made a friend, even if that had not been the intention at first. It was equally refreshing to have someone visit the halls of her home once more. The last visitor had incited something carnal within her, and the lady was not going to lie and say she still wasn't trying to figure out what had truly happened. The way that that man had turned her head had been stunning. No one had had that power since Aimias, and no one likely would again. Iris was not so easily moved, especially when it came to love and relationships and her own agendas often superseded any want of affection or romance.
No, Iris was simply happy for the purely platonic nature of friendship that she and the princess could sew together. While the visit would not be entirely long, it would be long enough to let the princess find peace and relaxation. There would be no hustle, no bustle because Iris would never be rushed in her own home. Not unless extreme urgency required such things. Thus, the lady was so keen on simply showing Persephone the rooms of the home, wanting Persephone to realize that she was welcome in any room that she wished, even the ones that Iris had long lauded as private and solitary.
The lady was pleased by the reception of the library by the princess and Iris couldn't help but give an extremely shy smile as she glanced around the warm room. "You are very welcome in this room, your highness. I find this room much more welcoming than any dining room or den. I rarely allow people in here, but I trust you," she said slowly, her smile softening further at Persephone's comment about the cleanliness of the library. "This room holds more importance to me than anything else in this home. My mother never asked my father for much. She simply wanted to read and tend her gardens. That was it," Iris murmured softly.
"I never met her, but I feel close to her here. I feel like I know everything about her just from spending so much time in this room. There is a book on that shelf right there that is so worn that I can tell it was her favorite. That chair has always faced that vase," she pointed again, "And I know that she must have favored both the lighting and the art itself." There was a small pause and Iris tested the waters quietly, "Did you know your mother well, your highness?" she questioned, her brows furrowing a little with curiosity.
Persephone walked a few steps deeper into the room as Iris detailed her feelings upon the chamber. Her gaze looked upon the way the wood was stained and polished - dark as was the nature of the trees in this area - but how the gleam of smoothness and the large windows ensured that such a place did not become gloomy. The paintings on the walls were bright and colourful, and the rugs upon the floor created in flattering and favouring tones to match.
The princess was polite as she listened, glancing as and where Iris pointed out references to a mother she had never known; how she could interpret the basic skeleton - the moral and personal strengths - that had formed the woman in life... And therefore lingered as a part of her legacy in death.
As Iris had spoken, a soft smile had brokered over Persephone's lips. For she liked the idea of stripping away a human being down to their most integral. Beyond bad habits or uncharacteristic moments, mistakes or hysteria. To reduce an individual down to what they truly were, outside of the day to day trials of life. It was, to Persephone, a wonderfully freeing idea that exposed the true, honest and wholesome core of a being no longer in the world. And she felt sure that Iris's mother was exactly as she pictured because of it. Untainted by her more human failings.
As she spun elegantly on the spot, her chin high and her eyes still absorbing the room around them, it was coincidence that Persephone turned to face her hostess just as the query of her own mother was put to her. The smile that had graced her lips melted away, taken by the sorrow of reminded grief and her features arranged themselves into a calm and polite mask of dignity.
"Yes." Persephone answered simply, before turning her gaze back to the furniture and art pieces. This time, her analysis of the chamber seemed more of an excuse for something to do with her eyes than it was of true interest. For her vision and focus seemed to have been drawn inward. "I was very close to the late Queen. I learnt much from her and continue to do so more now after her death, I believe."
Whilst the emotions for her were incredibly real, Persephone's language was that of detachment, not referring to Lucille as her 'mother' despite that being how she saw her in her heart. Since the death of her mother, she had been taught the etiquette that never reminded those she spoke with that she herself was human - with mother, father and emotions. She was a princess. With a Queen and a King and grace in the place of more human features and facets.
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Persephone walked a few steps deeper into the room as Iris detailed her feelings upon the chamber. Her gaze looked upon the way the wood was stained and polished - dark as was the nature of the trees in this area - but how the gleam of smoothness and the large windows ensured that such a place did not become gloomy. The paintings on the walls were bright and colourful, and the rugs upon the floor created in flattering and favouring tones to match.
The princess was polite as she listened, glancing as and where Iris pointed out references to a mother she had never known; how she could interpret the basic skeleton - the moral and personal strengths - that had formed the woman in life... And therefore lingered as a part of her legacy in death.
As Iris had spoken, a soft smile had brokered over Persephone's lips. For she liked the idea of stripping away a human being down to their most integral. Beyond bad habits or uncharacteristic moments, mistakes or hysteria. To reduce an individual down to what they truly were, outside of the day to day trials of life. It was, to Persephone, a wonderfully freeing idea that exposed the true, honest and wholesome core of a being no longer in the world. And she felt sure that Iris's mother was exactly as she pictured because of it. Untainted by her more human failings.
As she spun elegantly on the spot, her chin high and her eyes still absorbing the room around them, it was coincidence that Persephone turned to face her hostess just as the query of her own mother was put to her. The smile that had graced her lips melted away, taken by the sorrow of reminded grief and her features arranged themselves into a calm and polite mask of dignity.
"Yes." Persephone answered simply, before turning her gaze back to the furniture and art pieces. This time, her analysis of the chamber seemed more of an excuse for something to do with her eyes than it was of true interest. For her vision and focus seemed to have been drawn inward. "I was very close to the late Queen. I learnt much from her and continue to do so more now after her death, I believe."
Whilst the emotions for her were incredibly real, Persephone's language was that of detachment, not referring to Lucille as her 'mother' despite that being how she saw her in her heart. Since the death of her mother, she had been taught the etiquette that never reminded those she spoke with that she herself was human - with mother, father and emotions. She was a princess. With a Queen and a King and grace in the place of more human features and facets.
Persephone walked a few steps deeper into the room as Iris detailed her feelings upon the chamber. Her gaze looked upon the way the wood was stained and polished - dark as was the nature of the trees in this area - but how the gleam of smoothness and the large windows ensured that such a place did not become gloomy. The paintings on the walls were bright and colourful, and the rugs upon the floor created in flattering and favouring tones to match.
The princess was polite as she listened, glancing as and where Iris pointed out references to a mother she had never known; how she could interpret the basic skeleton - the moral and personal strengths - that had formed the woman in life... And therefore lingered as a part of her legacy in death.
As Iris had spoken, a soft smile had brokered over Persephone's lips. For she liked the idea of stripping away a human being down to their most integral. Beyond bad habits or uncharacteristic moments, mistakes or hysteria. To reduce an individual down to what they truly were, outside of the day to day trials of life. It was, to Persephone, a wonderfully freeing idea that exposed the true, honest and wholesome core of a being no longer in the world. And she felt sure that Iris's mother was exactly as she pictured because of it. Untainted by her more human failings.
As she spun elegantly on the spot, her chin high and her eyes still absorbing the room around them, it was coincidence that Persephone turned to face her hostess just as the query of her own mother was put to her. The smile that had graced her lips melted away, taken by the sorrow of reminded grief and her features arranged themselves into a calm and polite mask of dignity.
"Yes." Persephone answered simply, before turning her gaze back to the furniture and art pieces. This time, her analysis of the chamber seemed more of an excuse for something to do with her eyes than it was of true interest. For her vision and focus seemed to have been drawn inward. "I was very close to the late Queen. I learnt much from her and continue to do so more now after her death, I believe."
Whilst the emotions for her were incredibly real, Persephone's language was that of detachment, not referring to Lucille as her 'mother' despite that being how she saw her in her heart. Since the death of her mother, she had been taught the etiquette that never reminded those she spoke with that she herself was human - with mother, father and emotions. She was a princess. With a Queen and a King and grace in the place of more human features and facets.
Iris found herself very pleased that the princess had taken such a quick liking to her mother's favorite room of this house. Back in Athenia, their upper-level home was graced with a beautiful garden that Demetra had loved just as much as this room filled with books, scrolls, papyrus, art, furniture, and everything that the lady had ever truly favored. Iris knew that her mother had been an educated woman, common-born, but wealthy enough to attend the university and learn to her heart's contentment.
The young lady herself had once wished that she could follow in her mother's footsteps. But while Demetra was both idealistic and educated, she had also been fiery and wild and Iris had inherited many of her more wild tendencies as she had grown older. The want to be outdoors and not cooped up inside reading books all day. Iris would have rather been atop a horse or working beside her father or Gaios than in here. This was the place that Iris went to relax. At the end of a night when she needed to breathe and needed to think.
Some days, she would take the barony work from her father's study and move it in here in order to feel just that bit more grounded to the world. To the woman who she had never met but that her father had always assured had loved her with every part of herself before she had even been born. To share this room with someone as important as the crown princess of Athenia was both dangerous and telling. It was Iris letting a friend into a part of herself that she rarely let anyone see anymore.
She was interested in the way that Persephone seemed interested in each and every piece... up until the point that Iris spoke of the Queen. It was then that her own soft smile faltered off of her lips and Iris found herself swallowing. It had not been her intention to sadden the princess and she felt a need to reach out to her for comfort. Instead, she simply approached and stood closer to the woman, hoping that the warmth of her proximity would be enough to bring a smile back to her features. Iris felt more comforted about this visit knowing that Persephone was pleased and happy rather than insulted or saddened by words that she hadn't thought about before they came out of her mouth.
"I am sorry," Iris finally said, giving her a weak smile. "I did not mean to offend nor bring up a topic of discussion that would see the smile fall from your lips," she admitted carefully, swallowing a little bit. "Would you like to see another room now?" she offered, hoping that it would take the princess' thoughts off of her late mother. The mother she had known and was close with. Honestly, Iris thought herself an idiot for not thinking about what emotions her words might have dredged up in the princess. "There are other fine rooms like this one that you may find interest in."
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Iris found herself very pleased that the princess had taken such a quick liking to her mother's favorite room of this house. Back in Athenia, their upper-level home was graced with a beautiful garden that Demetra had loved just as much as this room filled with books, scrolls, papyrus, art, furniture, and everything that the lady had ever truly favored. Iris knew that her mother had been an educated woman, common-born, but wealthy enough to attend the university and learn to her heart's contentment.
The young lady herself had once wished that she could follow in her mother's footsteps. But while Demetra was both idealistic and educated, she had also been fiery and wild and Iris had inherited many of her more wild tendencies as she had grown older. The want to be outdoors and not cooped up inside reading books all day. Iris would have rather been atop a horse or working beside her father or Gaios than in here. This was the place that Iris went to relax. At the end of a night when she needed to breathe and needed to think.
Some days, she would take the barony work from her father's study and move it in here in order to feel just that bit more grounded to the world. To the woman who she had never met but that her father had always assured had loved her with every part of herself before she had even been born. To share this room with someone as important as the crown princess of Athenia was both dangerous and telling. It was Iris letting a friend into a part of herself that she rarely let anyone see anymore.
She was interested in the way that Persephone seemed interested in each and every piece... up until the point that Iris spoke of the Queen. It was then that her own soft smile faltered off of her lips and Iris found herself swallowing. It had not been her intention to sadden the princess and she felt a need to reach out to her for comfort. Instead, she simply approached and stood closer to the woman, hoping that the warmth of her proximity would be enough to bring a smile back to her features. Iris felt more comforted about this visit knowing that Persephone was pleased and happy rather than insulted or saddened by words that she hadn't thought about before they came out of her mouth.
"I am sorry," Iris finally said, giving her a weak smile. "I did not mean to offend nor bring up a topic of discussion that would see the smile fall from your lips," she admitted carefully, swallowing a little bit. "Would you like to see another room now?" she offered, hoping that it would take the princess' thoughts off of her late mother. The mother she had known and was close with. Honestly, Iris thought herself an idiot for not thinking about what emotions her words might have dredged up in the princess. "There are other fine rooms like this one that you may find interest in."
Iris found herself very pleased that the princess had taken such a quick liking to her mother's favorite room of this house. Back in Athenia, their upper-level home was graced with a beautiful garden that Demetra had loved just as much as this room filled with books, scrolls, papyrus, art, furniture, and everything that the lady had ever truly favored. Iris knew that her mother had been an educated woman, common-born, but wealthy enough to attend the university and learn to her heart's contentment.
The young lady herself had once wished that she could follow in her mother's footsteps. But while Demetra was both idealistic and educated, she had also been fiery and wild and Iris had inherited many of her more wild tendencies as she had grown older. The want to be outdoors and not cooped up inside reading books all day. Iris would have rather been atop a horse or working beside her father or Gaios than in here. This was the place that Iris went to relax. At the end of a night when she needed to breathe and needed to think.
Some days, she would take the barony work from her father's study and move it in here in order to feel just that bit more grounded to the world. To the woman who she had never met but that her father had always assured had loved her with every part of herself before she had even been born. To share this room with someone as important as the crown princess of Athenia was both dangerous and telling. It was Iris letting a friend into a part of herself that she rarely let anyone see anymore.
She was interested in the way that Persephone seemed interested in each and every piece... up until the point that Iris spoke of the Queen. It was then that her own soft smile faltered off of her lips and Iris found herself swallowing. It had not been her intention to sadden the princess and she felt a need to reach out to her for comfort. Instead, she simply approached and stood closer to the woman, hoping that the warmth of her proximity would be enough to bring a smile back to her features. Iris felt more comforted about this visit knowing that Persephone was pleased and happy rather than insulted or saddened by words that she hadn't thought about before they came out of her mouth.
"I am sorry," Iris finally said, giving her a weak smile. "I did not mean to offend nor bring up a topic of discussion that would see the smile fall from your lips," she admitted carefully, swallowing a little bit. "Would you like to see another room now?" she offered, hoping that it would take the princess' thoughts off of her late mother. The mother she had known and was close with. Honestly, Iris thought herself an idiot for not thinking about what emotions her words might have dredged up in the princess. "There are other fine rooms like this one that you may find interest in."
Persephone was not blind to the way that Iris moved closer into her personal space in order to offer her some kind of comfort simply via proximity. To be fair to the young woman, such a gesture was all that she really could offer. For it was considered bad etiquette to physically touch another of such high rank without it being instigated by she of royal blood. Noticing the way in which Iris took the only opportunity available to her to recompense the princess's sorrow with the only solidarity she could offer. Trained to recognise even the slightest of changes in behaviour, Persephone was thankful for the gesture.
Despite the manner in which the smile had faded from her lips, Persephone had not otherwise wilted at the topic. Her spine had not lost its posture nor her shoulders their careful placement of elegance. She simply looked around at the other woman, the curls of her hair brushing at her face and neck.
"You meant no harm, Lady Iris." She insisted to the woman, her smile coming gracefully back into place. "I am fully aware that such a woman was a Queen as well as a mother. I cannot be expected to never discuss her existence with her people." Persephone had learnt long ago that her family were not something that belonged solely to she. In fact, in many ways, her parents were known more by the nobles and aristocrats of the nation than by her sister and herself. They grieved the loss of such a Queen as she did and could not be expected to hold their tongues when they wished to speak of her legacy and the tales she left in her wake. The same would one day to be true for her father. And any other monarch that was to go down in the history of Athenia.
When Iris skilfully redirected the conversation elsewhere, Persephone permitted the change, encouraging the covering of an embarrassment she needed not to feel.
"I should be delighted to." She assured the young woman, turning to follow Iris' lead out of the very comfortable chamber that reminded the both of them of their maternal figures and headed out into the corridor once more. As they moved to their next location upon the tour of the manor, Persephone took it upon herself to speak regarding her plans for her visit. She had been given strict instructions by her father and sister to ensure that she relaxed and enjoyed her time here. And so, she had pondered on ways of doing just that on the road to Aetaea.
"During my stay here, I would greatly enjoy a ride around your lands if it can be arranged?" She asked the woman beside her. "I have heard such compliments of the woodland in Aetaea and the hunting grounds. Perhaps you would be able to show me such things tomorrow, if there is a horse at my disposal and time at your own?"
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Persephone was not blind to the way that Iris moved closer into her personal space in order to offer her some kind of comfort simply via proximity. To be fair to the young woman, such a gesture was all that she really could offer. For it was considered bad etiquette to physically touch another of such high rank without it being instigated by she of royal blood. Noticing the way in which Iris took the only opportunity available to her to recompense the princess's sorrow with the only solidarity she could offer. Trained to recognise even the slightest of changes in behaviour, Persephone was thankful for the gesture.
Despite the manner in which the smile had faded from her lips, Persephone had not otherwise wilted at the topic. Her spine had not lost its posture nor her shoulders their careful placement of elegance. She simply looked around at the other woman, the curls of her hair brushing at her face and neck.
"You meant no harm, Lady Iris." She insisted to the woman, her smile coming gracefully back into place. "I am fully aware that such a woman was a Queen as well as a mother. I cannot be expected to never discuss her existence with her people." Persephone had learnt long ago that her family were not something that belonged solely to she. In fact, in many ways, her parents were known more by the nobles and aristocrats of the nation than by her sister and herself. They grieved the loss of such a Queen as she did and could not be expected to hold their tongues when they wished to speak of her legacy and the tales she left in her wake. The same would one day to be true for her father. And any other monarch that was to go down in the history of Athenia.
When Iris skilfully redirected the conversation elsewhere, Persephone permitted the change, encouraging the covering of an embarrassment she needed not to feel.
"I should be delighted to." She assured the young woman, turning to follow Iris' lead out of the very comfortable chamber that reminded the both of them of their maternal figures and headed out into the corridor once more. As they moved to their next location upon the tour of the manor, Persephone took it upon herself to speak regarding her plans for her visit. She had been given strict instructions by her father and sister to ensure that she relaxed and enjoyed her time here. And so, she had pondered on ways of doing just that on the road to Aetaea.
"During my stay here, I would greatly enjoy a ride around your lands if it can be arranged?" She asked the woman beside her. "I have heard such compliments of the woodland in Aetaea and the hunting grounds. Perhaps you would be able to show me such things tomorrow, if there is a horse at my disposal and time at your own?"
Persephone was not blind to the way that Iris moved closer into her personal space in order to offer her some kind of comfort simply via proximity. To be fair to the young woman, such a gesture was all that she really could offer. For it was considered bad etiquette to physically touch another of such high rank without it being instigated by she of royal blood. Noticing the way in which Iris took the only opportunity available to her to recompense the princess's sorrow with the only solidarity she could offer. Trained to recognise even the slightest of changes in behaviour, Persephone was thankful for the gesture.
Despite the manner in which the smile had faded from her lips, Persephone had not otherwise wilted at the topic. Her spine had not lost its posture nor her shoulders their careful placement of elegance. She simply looked around at the other woman, the curls of her hair brushing at her face and neck.
"You meant no harm, Lady Iris." She insisted to the woman, her smile coming gracefully back into place. "I am fully aware that such a woman was a Queen as well as a mother. I cannot be expected to never discuss her existence with her people." Persephone had learnt long ago that her family were not something that belonged solely to she. In fact, in many ways, her parents were known more by the nobles and aristocrats of the nation than by her sister and herself. They grieved the loss of such a Queen as she did and could not be expected to hold their tongues when they wished to speak of her legacy and the tales she left in her wake. The same would one day to be true for her father. And any other monarch that was to go down in the history of Athenia.
When Iris skilfully redirected the conversation elsewhere, Persephone permitted the change, encouraging the covering of an embarrassment she needed not to feel.
"I should be delighted to." She assured the young woman, turning to follow Iris' lead out of the very comfortable chamber that reminded the both of them of their maternal figures and headed out into the corridor once more. As they moved to their next location upon the tour of the manor, Persephone took it upon herself to speak regarding her plans for her visit. She had been given strict instructions by her father and sister to ensure that she relaxed and enjoyed her time here. And so, she had pondered on ways of doing just that on the road to Aetaea.
"During my stay here, I would greatly enjoy a ride around your lands if it can be arranged?" She asked the woman beside her. "I have heard such compliments of the woodland in Aetaea and the hunting grounds. Perhaps you would be able to show me such things tomorrow, if there is a horse at my disposal and time at your own?"
Iris was relieved that the princess allowed her to change the topic of conversation. While Persephone's mother was known by much of the nobility and was still widely spoken about, even now, that did not mean that the princess wanted to approach such a topic again and again. Besides, it meant that Iris did not approach the topic of her own mother, though her father and a few of the older courtiers stated time and time again that Iris was her carbon copy. Nearly the same face, the same eyes, the same dark hair and olive complexion. But, the difference was that Iris didn't have a single memory of her. Not in the way that Persephone likely did, no matter how young she was when the queen had passed.
It was good to avoid topics such as these. They tended to ruin things and Iris was not often one to think about nor talk about whatever adled and ailed her mind. But even that thought drifted to another and Iris found herself swallowing hard when Elias seemed to float right into her mind. She walked skillfully and quietly beside Persephone, but she was silent for a time, her expression distant when she felt like she could get away with it. If only because she remembered giving a tour to him as well, though that one was far more sexually charged than this one could ever be.
The lady of the house found herself clearing her throat quickly when Persephone brought up the idea of seeing Aetaea's lands. Immediately, all thoughts of Elias disappeared for the moment and her green eyes lit with extreme interest. The house was beautiful. It had many rooms, many places to hide, many interesting pieces of art, but it really held nothing to the beauty of Aetaea itself. The land, the forests, the fields of flowers and herbs, the gentle valleys that a creek or two trailed through. Already, without even giving herself a chance to answer, Iris was picking all of the places that she wanted to show Persephone the most.
Her own smile returned to her features and Iris nodded almost excitedly, though she did not allow herself to become too bouncy, knowing it to be far too wild for her present company. "Of course, your highness," Iris said in a smooth, velvet voice. "I hunt generally every morning. Usually I head out before dawn fully breaks, but if you wish to leave later, that can also be arranged," Iris explained with a tinge of happiness to her voice. Happiness that the topic of conversation had turned to one of her great loves. Hunting and exploring. Had she not been a noble, she would had one day dreamed to explore the world as a sailor, or maybe a merchant. "We have numerous horses that you may choose from. I must say, I did not expect you to be interested in the lands. Most people, when they visit the home, really only want to see the home."
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Iris was relieved that the princess allowed her to change the topic of conversation. While Persephone's mother was known by much of the nobility and was still widely spoken about, even now, that did not mean that the princess wanted to approach such a topic again and again. Besides, it meant that Iris did not approach the topic of her own mother, though her father and a few of the older courtiers stated time and time again that Iris was her carbon copy. Nearly the same face, the same eyes, the same dark hair and olive complexion. But, the difference was that Iris didn't have a single memory of her. Not in the way that Persephone likely did, no matter how young she was when the queen had passed.
It was good to avoid topics such as these. They tended to ruin things and Iris was not often one to think about nor talk about whatever adled and ailed her mind. But even that thought drifted to another and Iris found herself swallowing hard when Elias seemed to float right into her mind. She walked skillfully and quietly beside Persephone, but she was silent for a time, her expression distant when she felt like she could get away with it. If only because she remembered giving a tour to him as well, though that one was far more sexually charged than this one could ever be.
The lady of the house found herself clearing her throat quickly when Persephone brought up the idea of seeing Aetaea's lands. Immediately, all thoughts of Elias disappeared for the moment and her green eyes lit with extreme interest. The house was beautiful. It had many rooms, many places to hide, many interesting pieces of art, but it really held nothing to the beauty of Aetaea itself. The land, the forests, the fields of flowers and herbs, the gentle valleys that a creek or two trailed through. Already, without even giving herself a chance to answer, Iris was picking all of the places that she wanted to show Persephone the most.
Her own smile returned to her features and Iris nodded almost excitedly, though she did not allow herself to become too bouncy, knowing it to be far too wild for her present company. "Of course, your highness," Iris said in a smooth, velvet voice. "I hunt generally every morning. Usually I head out before dawn fully breaks, but if you wish to leave later, that can also be arranged," Iris explained with a tinge of happiness to her voice. Happiness that the topic of conversation had turned to one of her great loves. Hunting and exploring. Had she not been a noble, she would had one day dreamed to explore the world as a sailor, or maybe a merchant. "We have numerous horses that you may choose from. I must say, I did not expect you to be interested in the lands. Most people, when they visit the home, really only want to see the home."
Iris was relieved that the princess allowed her to change the topic of conversation. While Persephone's mother was known by much of the nobility and was still widely spoken about, even now, that did not mean that the princess wanted to approach such a topic again and again. Besides, it meant that Iris did not approach the topic of her own mother, though her father and a few of the older courtiers stated time and time again that Iris was her carbon copy. Nearly the same face, the same eyes, the same dark hair and olive complexion. But, the difference was that Iris didn't have a single memory of her. Not in the way that Persephone likely did, no matter how young she was when the queen had passed.
It was good to avoid topics such as these. They tended to ruin things and Iris was not often one to think about nor talk about whatever adled and ailed her mind. But even that thought drifted to another and Iris found herself swallowing hard when Elias seemed to float right into her mind. She walked skillfully and quietly beside Persephone, but she was silent for a time, her expression distant when she felt like she could get away with it. If only because she remembered giving a tour to him as well, though that one was far more sexually charged than this one could ever be.
The lady of the house found herself clearing her throat quickly when Persephone brought up the idea of seeing Aetaea's lands. Immediately, all thoughts of Elias disappeared for the moment and her green eyes lit with extreme interest. The house was beautiful. It had many rooms, many places to hide, many interesting pieces of art, but it really held nothing to the beauty of Aetaea itself. The land, the forests, the fields of flowers and herbs, the gentle valleys that a creek or two trailed through. Already, without even giving herself a chance to answer, Iris was picking all of the places that she wanted to show Persephone the most.
Her own smile returned to her features and Iris nodded almost excitedly, though she did not allow herself to become too bouncy, knowing it to be far too wild for her present company. "Of course, your highness," Iris said in a smooth, velvet voice. "I hunt generally every morning. Usually I head out before dawn fully breaks, but if you wish to leave later, that can also be arranged," Iris explained with a tinge of happiness to her voice. Happiness that the topic of conversation had turned to one of her great loves. Hunting and exploring. Had she not been a noble, she would had one day dreamed to explore the world as a sailor, or maybe a merchant. "We have numerous horses that you may choose from. I must say, I did not expect you to be interested in the lands. Most people, when they visit the home, really only want to see the home."
Persephone allowed Iris to be lost in her own thoughts as they wandered the house. Her guide was instructive and informative of several of its key features and draws but the princess felt no need to fill the silence with random utterances that were only served to render the quiet moot. Instead, she was quite content to travel through the house at her hostess' pace and only speak when spoken to or answered.
When Iris suggested that they go out the following morning - or any morning for that matter, as she had not specified the day - Persephone smiled at the idea and nodded in agreement that she would enjoy such an activity. She was honest when it came to the question of what time they should leave as Persephone felt no desire to hide a weakness when in the company of just one. Most royals should be honest, provided it did not damage plans that could aid others. That was Persephone's theory anyway.
"I fear you would struggle to see me ride before dawn." She answered Iris with a light and amused tone to her voice that seemed to chastise her own sleeping habits. An expression of contrition had fallen over her face. "I wake with the sun and prior to it am hard pressed to be stirred. Though I think it perhaps wise in this instance to ride unfamiliar parts with the guidance of light." She added this last as a reasonable justification for her own lethargy in dark morning hours. It was true that she awoke with the sun every morning regardless of what time in the day that might be. And that she slept like the dead right up until those first rays could be seen over the horizon.
Persephone was a skilled rider and knew her way around the back of a horse, but she did not know Aetaea. Not as it was in reality. Only its economic state, it's statistics and yield and exports and imports. She knew from what it built and made and sold, what the lands must surely hold and look like. But she had not explored those lands in person to see the reality of her assumptions.
As Iris mentioned about the house holding more interest than the lands for most, Persephone looked around at the wooden slatting and the fresh, earthy colours of the home. She did like the house. And she did see it with an eye of appreciation. But her opinion was honest as she explained her interest in the terrain over tapestries...
"You home is grand and I can see it has been shown much love and devotion over the years. And whilst I can appreciate it with the eye of an observer, to me it only matters if you are content within your home. Should such decor offend me for some reason, where is the issue in that? I do not live here." She smiled with a bright expression of mirth. "But, my father precides over Aetaea as he does over all provinces. And I feel a connection of ownership there. Not to mention the fact that I have seen the lands as they are on paper for so many years and curiosity sees me wanting to witness the real thing."
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Persephone allowed Iris to be lost in her own thoughts as they wandered the house. Her guide was instructive and informative of several of its key features and draws but the princess felt no need to fill the silence with random utterances that were only served to render the quiet moot. Instead, she was quite content to travel through the house at her hostess' pace and only speak when spoken to or answered.
When Iris suggested that they go out the following morning - or any morning for that matter, as she had not specified the day - Persephone smiled at the idea and nodded in agreement that she would enjoy such an activity. She was honest when it came to the question of what time they should leave as Persephone felt no desire to hide a weakness when in the company of just one. Most royals should be honest, provided it did not damage plans that could aid others. That was Persephone's theory anyway.
"I fear you would struggle to see me ride before dawn." She answered Iris with a light and amused tone to her voice that seemed to chastise her own sleeping habits. An expression of contrition had fallen over her face. "I wake with the sun and prior to it am hard pressed to be stirred. Though I think it perhaps wise in this instance to ride unfamiliar parts with the guidance of light." She added this last as a reasonable justification for her own lethargy in dark morning hours. It was true that she awoke with the sun every morning regardless of what time in the day that might be. And that she slept like the dead right up until those first rays could be seen over the horizon.
Persephone was a skilled rider and knew her way around the back of a horse, but she did not know Aetaea. Not as it was in reality. Only its economic state, it's statistics and yield and exports and imports. She knew from what it built and made and sold, what the lands must surely hold and look like. But she had not explored those lands in person to see the reality of her assumptions.
As Iris mentioned about the house holding more interest than the lands for most, Persephone looked around at the wooden slatting and the fresh, earthy colours of the home. She did like the house. And she did see it with an eye of appreciation. But her opinion was honest as she explained her interest in the terrain over tapestries...
"You home is grand and I can see it has been shown much love and devotion over the years. And whilst I can appreciate it with the eye of an observer, to me it only matters if you are content within your home. Should such decor offend me for some reason, where is the issue in that? I do not live here." She smiled with a bright expression of mirth. "But, my father precides over Aetaea as he does over all provinces. And I feel a connection of ownership there. Not to mention the fact that I have seen the lands as they are on paper for so many years and curiosity sees me wanting to witness the real thing."
Persephone allowed Iris to be lost in her own thoughts as they wandered the house. Her guide was instructive and informative of several of its key features and draws but the princess felt no need to fill the silence with random utterances that were only served to render the quiet moot. Instead, she was quite content to travel through the house at her hostess' pace and only speak when spoken to or answered.
When Iris suggested that they go out the following morning - or any morning for that matter, as she had not specified the day - Persephone smiled at the idea and nodded in agreement that she would enjoy such an activity. She was honest when it came to the question of what time they should leave as Persephone felt no desire to hide a weakness when in the company of just one. Most royals should be honest, provided it did not damage plans that could aid others. That was Persephone's theory anyway.
"I fear you would struggle to see me ride before dawn." She answered Iris with a light and amused tone to her voice that seemed to chastise her own sleeping habits. An expression of contrition had fallen over her face. "I wake with the sun and prior to it am hard pressed to be stirred. Though I think it perhaps wise in this instance to ride unfamiliar parts with the guidance of light." She added this last as a reasonable justification for her own lethargy in dark morning hours. It was true that she awoke with the sun every morning regardless of what time in the day that might be. And that she slept like the dead right up until those first rays could be seen over the horizon.
Persephone was a skilled rider and knew her way around the back of a horse, but she did not know Aetaea. Not as it was in reality. Only its economic state, it's statistics and yield and exports and imports. She knew from what it built and made and sold, what the lands must surely hold and look like. But she had not explored those lands in person to see the reality of her assumptions.
As Iris mentioned about the house holding more interest than the lands for most, Persephone looked around at the wooden slatting and the fresh, earthy colours of the home. She did like the house. And she did see it with an eye of appreciation. But her opinion was honest as she explained her interest in the terrain over tapestries...
"You home is grand and I can see it has been shown much love and devotion over the years. And whilst I can appreciate it with the eye of an observer, to me it only matters if you are content within your home. Should such decor offend me for some reason, where is the issue in that? I do not live here." She smiled with a bright expression of mirth. "But, my father precides over Aetaea as he does over all provinces. And I feel a connection of ownership there. Not to mention the fact that I have seen the lands as they are on paper for so many years and curiosity sees me wanting to witness the real thing."
This was a relief, honestly. A relief because Iris had always wanted to show a guest around the lands rather than the house. She loved her home just as much as she loved her lands, but she would have rather spent her free hours in nature, feeling at peace and one with the gods themselves. The tranquility of Aetaea was something that always brought Iris calm rather than frustration. She worked night and day in her father's stead to keep the province economically sound, if not flourishing, and she loved the work because it meant that the peace remained. The quiet and the contentment. The comfort of the lands. They remained hers. Her heart could remain wild even though her coutenance required civility and fine breeding to take over in social situations.
Iris allowed herself to laugh very softly at the declaration of the princess that she was not easy to wake before the sun. Iris could respect that. There were some days where she did the same, though not many. Most mornings, she wanted to watch the sun rise between the trees. Come winter, then the leaves were more sparse, it was a magical time to watch the golden rays of the sun rise high into the sky to bathe the province in golden light. It was those first warm moments of the morning that Iris cherished so completely.
"I think that would be wise, for I could navigate these lands in the dark, but I do not wish to lose you in my own hubris," Iris said with a small smile that matched the princess'. "Come morning, when you wake, we shall break fast, and then ride out," Iris murmured lightly, "There is much ground to cover, but I have a feeling that you will see the same beauty in the province as I do," Iris admitted then, overly excited at the prospect of the princess joining her for such a ride.
She had corresponded with the young woman often, writing in Lord Takis' stead on matters of the province. Iris knew that the princess knew everything about the province on paper, but it was different when seeing it up close. It would be somewhat of a shock, Iris was sure, because numbers only because to describe a province. The sheer size of the lands, however, would start to put more weight against those same numbers. More meaning and more appreciation for the hard work that Aetaeans put into keeping the province running each and every day. From morning to night and then again the next day. Over and over, nothing stopped moving.
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This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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This was a relief, honestly. A relief because Iris had always wanted to show a guest around the lands rather than the house. She loved her home just as much as she loved her lands, but she would have rather spent her free hours in nature, feeling at peace and one with the gods themselves. The tranquility of Aetaea was something that always brought Iris calm rather than frustration. She worked night and day in her father's stead to keep the province economically sound, if not flourishing, and she loved the work because it meant that the peace remained. The quiet and the contentment. The comfort of the lands. They remained hers. Her heart could remain wild even though her coutenance required civility and fine breeding to take over in social situations.
Iris allowed herself to laugh very softly at the declaration of the princess that she was not easy to wake before the sun. Iris could respect that. There were some days where she did the same, though not many. Most mornings, she wanted to watch the sun rise between the trees. Come winter, then the leaves were more sparse, it was a magical time to watch the golden rays of the sun rise high into the sky to bathe the province in golden light. It was those first warm moments of the morning that Iris cherished so completely.
"I think that would be wise, for I could navigate these lands in the dark, but I do not wish to lose you in my own hubris," Iris said with a small smile that matched the princess'. "Come morning, when you wake, we shall break fast, and then ride out," Iris murmured lightly, "There is much ground to cover, but I have a feeling that you will see the same beauty in the province as I do," Iris admitted then, overly excited at the prospect of the princess joining her for such a ride.
She had corresponded with the young woman often, writing in Lord Takis' stead on matters of the province. Iris knew that the princess knew everything about the province on paper, but it was different when seeing it up close. It would be somewhat of a shock, Iris was sure, because numbers only because to describe a province. The sheer size of the lands, however, would start to put more weight against those same numbers. More meaning and more appreciation for the hard work that Aetaeans put into keeping the province running each and every day. From morning to night and then again the next day. Over and over, nothing stopped moving.
This was a relief, honestly. A relief because Iris had always wanted to show a guest around the lands rather than the house. She loved her home just as much as she loved her lands, but she would have rather spent her free hours in nature, feeling at peace and one with the gods themselves. The tranquility of Aetaea was something that always brought Iris calm rather than frustration. She worked night and day in her father's stead to keep the province economically sound, if not flourishing, and she loved the work because it meant that the peace remained. The quiet and the contentment. The comfort of the lands. They remained hers. Her heart could remain wild even though her coutenance required civility and fine breeding to take over in social situations.
Iris allowed herself to laugh very softly at the declaration of the princess that she was not easy to wake before the sun. Iris could respect that. There were some days where she did the same, though not many. Most mornings, she wanted to watch the sun rise between the trees. Come winter, then the leaves were more sparse, it was a magical time to watch the golden rays of the sun rise high into the sky to bathe the province in golden light. It was those first warm moments of the morning that Iris cherished so completely.
"I think that would be wise, for I could navigate these lands in the dark, but I do not wish to lose you in my own hubris," Iris said with a small smile that matched the princess'. "Come morning, when you wake, we shall break fast, and then ride out," Iris murmured lightly, "There is much ground to cover, but I have a feeling that you will see the same beauty in the province as I do," Iris admitted then, overly excited at the prospect of the princess joining her for such a ride.
She had corresponded with the young woman often, writing in Lord Takis' stead on matters of the province. Iris knew that the princess knew everything about the province on paper, but it was different when seeing it up close. It would be somewhat of a shock, Iris was sure, because numbers only because to describe a province. The sheer size of the lands, however, would start to put more weight against those same numbers. More meaning and more appreciation for the hard work that Aetaeans put into keeping the province running each and every day. From morning to night and then again the next day. Over and over, nothing stopped moving.