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Timaeus smoothed over her relation as best he could and there was a slight sting when she realized his declaration of their kinship was not in open defiance of the system where he would finally proudly proclaim her birth and damn everyone who scorned them. Not only that, this tale he was telling now would make it more difficult for her to ever become a recognized member of the family. It was not in her to argue or balk and she simply smiled, “Very pleased to meet you, sir.” She said, not missing a beat after Tim explained her away. Any commoner might be enamored of this group but she couldn’t bring herself to play the part wholeheartedly and did keep a noble aire about her.
“Princess Evras. It’s truly a pleasure to see you.”
Roxana’s aire of nobility changed quickly to enamored commoner when she realized she was in the presence of royalty. Tim’s praise of her softened his earlier blow in the form of a lie. She blushed a little more but the butterflies were pleasant this time rather than in the form of an aching and tight stomach. Still, biting her tongue in these situations was becoming harder.
There was a break in the awkwardness and conversation about Roxana herself which made her cheeks a little cooler. The handsome young soldier approached and she recognized Maleos, her cousin’s good friend, and gave him a smile of greeting. About to serve him, Tim cut in and told her to, grating her nerves. As if she had forgotten her duty! Without a word, she handed him a metal cup and poured some water from the skin she was carrying. Handing it over, she began to prepare some herbs and oil on a flat of bread before handing that over as well. She gave him another, slightly less nervous smile while doing something she knew how to do and was charged to do. It felt better than being a bastard among nobles. As hard as she tried, it was nothing to be proud of, not like today’s hard work.
"I wonder, my lord... would your mother be uneager to part from Miss Roxana, Lord Timaeus?"
Today was just full of surprises and Roxana’s mouth hung open for the briefest of moments. She snapped it shut and poured more water for Maleos. Almost too much and it nearly spilt before she pulled it back, “This work creates a mighty thirst.” She excused the overpour.
When the other tall man left, Roxana made sure to curtsy again at his parting, mostly not wanting to make a fool of herself in front of a princess.
“I’d suppose not.”
Roxana turned to him sharply. Would he allow her to leave? Surely he wouldn’t deny her serving royalty. She thought again, of course he would. It was a miracle she was let out into public at all, she thought mutinously. A commoner such as herself was not fit in this circle. Sighing as a way to stop feeling sorry for herself, she took on a neutral face, ready to hear some opportunity pass her by due to her birth.
"I find myself in need of a new lady's maid, one who would accompany to court sessions, and one who would be my companion as days become... busier."
Roxana’s hazel eyes became wider and she looked at the ground as if there was something there to hide her reaction. For once, keeping her mouth shut had been a good thing, she thought. Other times, it felt just awful to stay quiet while all this nobility talk swept passed her with a stocky reminder that she was not allowed. Might as well have signs, ‘Bastards need not apply’. Damn, there she was feeling sorry for herself again when she truly did have so much. If she was a bastard, she was a lucky one to have been cared for at all.
"Would your mother mind very much, if I were to hire your cousin myself, then? She would of course, be full-time in my residences."
She turned to Tim, a flash of pleading in her eyes but hiding it quite effectively after a moment, “It is a great honor to be considered, my lady. I thank you.” Alright, so that didn’t quite go with the speaking only when spoken to but she thought she might burst if she said nothing at all.
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Timaeus smoothed over her relation as best he could and there was a slight sting when she realized his declaration of their kinship was not in open defiance of the system where he would finally proudly proclaim her birth and damn everyone who scorned them. Not only that, this tale he was telling now would make it more difficult for her to ever become a recognized member of the family. It was not in her to argue or balk and she simply smiled, “Very pleased to meet you, sir.” She said, not missing a beat after Tim explained her away. Any commoner might be enamored of this group but she couldn’t bring herself to play the part wholeheartedly and did keep a noble aire about her.
“Princess Evras. It’s truly a pleasure to see you.”
Roxana’s aire of nobility changed quickly to enamored commoner when she realized she was in the presence of royalty. Tim’s praise of her softened his earlier blow in the form of a lie. She blushed a little more but the butterflies were pleasant this time rather than in the form of an aching and tight stomach. Still, biting her tongue in these situations was becoming harder.
There was a break in the awkwardness and conversation about Roxana herself which made her cheeks a little cooler. The handsome young soldier approached and she recognized Maleos, her cousin’s good friend, and gave him a smile of greeting. About to serve him, Tim cut in and told her to, grating her nerves. As if she had forgotten her duty! Without a word, she handed him a metal cup and poured some water from the skin she was carrying. Handing it over, she began to prepare some herbs and oil on a flat of bread before handing that over as well. She gave him another, slightly less nervous smile while doing something she knew how to do and was charged to do. It felt better than being a bastard among nobles. As hard as she tried, it was nothing to be proud of, not like today’s hard work.
"I wonder, my lord... would your mother be uneager to part from Miss Roxana, Lord Timaeus?"
Today was just full of surprises and Roxana’s mouth hung open for the briefest of moments. She snapped it shut and poured more water for Maleos. Almost too much and it nearly spilt before she pulled it back, “This work creates a mighty thirst.” She excused the overpour.
When the other tall man left, Roxana made sure to curtsy again at his parting, mostly not wanting to make a fool of herself in front of a princess.
“I’d suppose not.”
Roxana turned to him sharply. Would he allow her to leave? Surely he wouldn’t deny her serving royalty. She thought again, of course he would. It was a miracle she was let out into public at all, she thought mutinously. A commoner such as herself was not fit in this circle. Sighing as a way to stop feeling sorry for herself, she took on a neutral face, ready to hear some opportunity pass her by due to her birth.
"I find myself in need of a new lady's maid, one who would accompany to court sessions, and one who would be my companion as days become... busier."
Roxana’s hazel eyes became wider and she looked at the ground as if there was something there to hide her reaction. For once, keeping her mouth shut had been a good thing, she thought. Other times, it felt just awful to stay quiet while all this nobility talk swept passed her with a stocky reminder that she was not allowed. Might as well have signs, ‘Bastards need not apply’. Damn, there she was feeling sorry for herself again when she truly did have so much. If she was a bastard, she was a lucky one to have been cared for at all.
"Would your mother mind very much, if I were to hire your cousin myself, then? She would of course, be full-time in my residences."
She turned to Tim, a flash of pleading in her eyes but hiding it quite effectively after a moment, “It is a great honor to be considered, my lady. I thank you.” Alright, so that didn’t quite go with the speaking only when spoken to but she thought she might burst if she said nothing at all.
Timaeus smoothed over her relation as best he could and there was a slight sting when she realized his declaration of their kinship was not in open defiance of the system where he would finally proudly proclaim her birth and damn everyone who scorned them. Not only that, this tale he was telling now would make it more difficult for her to ever become a recognized member of the family. It was not in her to argue or balk and she simply smiled, “Very pleased to meet you, sir.” She said, not missing a beat after Tim explained her away. Any commoner might be enamored of this group but she couldn’t bring herself to play the part wholeheartedly and did keep a noble aire about her.
“Princess Evras. It’s truly a pleasure to see you.”
Roxana’s aire of nobility changed quickly to enamored commoner when she realized she was in the presence of royalty. Tim’s praise of her softened his earlier blow in the form of a lie. She blushed a little more but the butterflies were pleasant this time rather than in the form of an aching and tight stomach. Still, biting her tongue in these situations was becoming harder.
There was a break in the awkwardness and conversation about Roxana herself which made her cheeks a little cooler. The handsome young soldier approached and she recognized Maleos, her cousin’s good friend, and gave him a smile of greeting. About to serve him, Tim cut in and told her to, grating her nerves. As if she had forgotten her duty! Without a word, she handed him a metal cup and poured some water from the skin she was carrying. Handing it over, she began to prepare some herbs and oil on a flat of bread before handing that over as well. She gave him another, slightly less nervous smile while doing something she knew how to do and was charged to do. It felt better than being a bastard among nobles. As hard as she tried, it was nothing to be proud of, not like today’s hard work.
"I wonder, my lord... would your mother be uneager to part from Miss Roxana, Lord Timaeus?"
Today was just full of surprises and Roxana’s mouth hung open for the briefest of moments. She snapped it shut and poured more water for Maleos. Almost too much and it nearly spilt before she pulled it back, “This work creates a mighty thirst.” She excused the overpour.
When the other tall man left, Roxana made sure to curtsy again at his parting, mostly not wanting to make a fool of herself in front of a princess.
“I’d suppose not.”
Roxana turned to him sharply. Would he allow her to leave? Surely he wouldn’t deny her serving royalty. She thought again, of course he would. It was a miracle she was let out into public at all, she thought mutinously. A commoner such as herself was not fit in this circle. Sighing as a way to stop feeling sorry for herself, she took on a neutral face, ready to hear some opportunity pass her by due to her birth.
"I find myself in need of a new lady's maid, one who would accompany to court sessions, and one who would be my companion as days become... busier."
Roxana’s hazel eyes became wider and she looked at the ground as if there was something there to hide her reaction. For once, keeping her mouth shut had been a good thing, she thought. Other times, it felt just awful to stay quiet while all this nobility talk swept passed her with a stocky reminder that she was not allowed. Might as well have signs, ‘Bastards need not apply’. Damn, there she was feeling sorry for herself again when she truly did have so much. If she was a bastard, she was a lucky one to have been cared for at all.
"Would your mother mind very much, if I were to hire your cousin myself, then? She would of course, be full-time in my residences."
She turned to Tim, a flash of pleading in her eyes but hiding it quite effectively after a moment, “It is a great honor to be considered, my lady. I thank you.” Alright, so that didn’t quite go with the speaking only when spoken to but she thought she might burst if she said nothing at all.
It took everything Maleos had in him, every single bit of his self-taught discipline not to step forward and hug Timaeus as if a brother. As if it wasn't bad enough that he was covered in dirt and sweat that would then transfer to his closest friend, it was also not proper of them, not with the current company and Timaeus' title. So he resisted, and bit his tongue to keep from laughing at Timaeus' forgotten manners. The observant Captain did not miss the half-step towards him as the Baron nearly forgot they were not alone. He would have to remember to bring that up later and embarrass him a little when there was no one else around. He would never purposefully do anything to embarrass Timaeus in public, he knew what was at stake with his reputation.
He listened as Timaeus sung his praises, twice he praised him and Maleos felt a swelling of pride in his chest. He wasn't one to brag very much, but he felt he deserved every word that came from his best friend. He had worked hard to get where he was, and he knew that not many common folk ever made it as far as he had.
"He exaggerates. I simply do what is in the best interest of our lands and the people who call them home." He said, the kind words from his best friend brought a hint of a smile to his normally stoic face.
Embarrassed that Timaeus must have noticed the noises his stomach had been making, he gladly accepted the cup and the water that was poured into it, downing it in one drink, his bone-dry mouth and burning throat thanked him for the water, even if it was a little warmer than he would have liked. Water was water, and he had survived off worse during campaigns he had been sent on.
He took the bread as well, with plans to thank her, but before words could leave his lips, she was hastily pouring more water in his now empty cup, seemingly distracted as she nearly spilled it on him. He knew a few other captains who would have lost it on her for such a thing, but luckily Maleos was less bothered by such trivial things. Instead his attention turned to the conversation at hand, though it had nothing to do with him.
He would simply watch as the other male took his leave, not personally caring of his absence. He was not one for men like him, those who preferred to sneak around.
He could hear the eagerness in Roxana's voice as she spoke of the offered opportunity from the princess.
He kept his mouth shut, knowing better than to interrupt, he would have nothing but good things to say about Roxana, having met her quite a few times while spending time with Timaeus, he knew it was not his place to speak on the matter. Instead he took a drink from his cup which was still full to the brim, doing his best not to spill any.
For the moment he would remain a silent party, would let them have their conversation and would speak when it had anything to do with him.
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It took everything Maleos had in him, every single bit of his self-taught discipline not to step forward and hug Timaeus as if a brother. As if it wasn't bad enough that he was covered in dirt and sweat that would then transfer to his closest friend, it was also not proper of them, not with the current company and Timaeus' title. So he resisted, and bit his tongue to keep from laughing at Timaeus' forgotten manners. The observant Captain did not miss the half-step towards him as the Baron nearly forgot they were not alone. He would have to remember to bring that up later and embarrass him a little when there was no one else around. He would never purposefully do anything to embarrass Timaeus in public, he knew what was at stake with his reputation.
He listened as Timaeus sung his praises, twice he praised him and Maleos felt a swelling of pride in his chest. He wasn't one to brag very much, but he felt he deserved every word that came from his best friend. He had worked hard to get where he was, and he knew that not many common folk ever made it as far as he had.
"He exaggerates. I simply do what is in the best interest of our lands and the people who call them home." He said, the kind words from his best friend brought a hint of a smile to his normally stoic face.
Embarrassed that Timaeus must have noticed the noises his stomach had been making, he gladly accepted the cup and the water that was poured into it, downing it in one drink, his bone-dry mouth and burning throat thanked him for the water, even if it was a little warmer than he would have liked. Water was water, and he had survived off worse during campaigns he had been sent on.
He took the bread as well, with plans to thank her, but before words could leave his lips, she was hastily pouring more water in his now empty cup, seemingly distracted as she nearly spilled it on him. He knew a few other captains who would have lost it on her for such a thing, but luckily Maleos was less bothered by such trivial things. Instead his attention turned to the conversation at hand, though it had nothing to do with him.
He would simply watch as the other male took his leave, not personally caring of his absence. He was not one for men like him, those who preferred to sneak around.
He could hear the eagerness in Roxana's voice as she spoke of the offered opportunity from the princess.
He kept his mouth shut, knowing better than to interrupt, he would have nothing but good things to say about Roxana, having met her quite a few times while spending time with Timaeus, he knew it was not his place to speak on the matter. Instead he took a drink from his cup which was still full to the brim, doing his best not to spill any.
For the moment he would remain a silent party, would let them have their conversation and would speak when it had anything to do with him.
It took everything Maleos had in him, every single bit of his self-taught discipline not to step forward and hug Timaeus as if a brother. As if it wasn't bad enough that he was covered in dirt and sweat that would then transfer to his closest friend, it was also not proper of them, not with the current company and Timaeus' title. So he resisted, and bit his tongue to keep from laughing at Timaeus' forgotten manners. The observant Captain did not miss the half-step towards him as the Baron nearly forgot they were not alone. He would have to remember to bring that up later and embarrass him a little when there was no one else around. He would never purposefully do anything to embarrass Timaeus in public, he knew what was at stake with his reputation.
He listened as Timaeus sung his praises, twice he praised him and Maleos felt a swelling of pride in his chest. He wasn't one to brag very much, but he felt he deserved every word that came from his best friend. He had worked hard to get where he was, and he knew that not many common folk ever made it as far as he had.
"He exaggerates. I simply do what is in the best interest of our lands and the people who call them home." He said, the kind words from his best friend brought a hint of a smile to his normally stoic face.
Embarrassed that Timaeus must have noticed the noises his stomach had been making, he gladly accepted the cup and the water that was poured into it, downing it in one drink, his bone-dry mouth and burning throat thanked him for the water, even if it was a little warmer than he would have liked. Water was water, and he had survived off worse during campaigns he had been sent on.
He took the bread as well, with plans to thank her, but before words could leave his lips, she was hastily pouring more water in his now empty cup, seemingly distracted as she nearly spilled it on him. He knew a few other captains who would have lost it on her for such a thing, but luckily Maleos was less bothered by such trivial things. Instead his attention turned to the conversation at hand, though it had nothing to do with him.
He would simply watch as the other male took his leave, not personally caring of his absence. He was not one for men like him, those who preferred to sneak around.
He could hear the eagerness in Roxana's voice as she spoke of the offered opportunity from the princess.
He kept his mouth shut, knowing better than to interrupt, he would have nothing but good things to say about Roxana, having met her quite a few times while spending time with Timaeus, he knew it was not his place to speak on the matter. Instead he took a drink from his cup which was still full to the brim, doing his best not to spill any.
For the moment he would remain a silent party, would let them have their conversation and would speak when it had anything to do with him.
Out of all the things that Evras could say, Timaeus certainly did not expect the offer that she made to the Baron. It was shocking enough to him that it was enough to pull his gaze away from his cousin and best friend, only to stare at the princess with a look of shock upon his face. Never once did he ever consider that Roxana would be considered for a position as a lady in waiting to a member of a dynestia. In truth, he believed that her own status as a bastard blocked her from having such a chance with a member of a Varanos, yet here the princess was offering to hire Roxana right then and there.
Timaeus didn’t know what to say and it showed when he thanked the princess for her praise, stuttering through his whole statement, “Thank you, my lady. My cousin would be proud to know of the praises you speak of her as well as take pride in the offer you are making.” There was no denying what a great honor it was for Evras to even consider Roxana for such a role, but Timaeus couldn’t bring himself to say anything confirming that she would take such a position.
Not when the overprotective, worrisome thoughts began to wrongly dissect what Evras was offering to the Valaoritis bastard.
In truth, Timaeus knew that he was in no position to deny Evras her request. Not only was she a member of the family he was sworn to, but she was also a princess of Colchis. Whatever she wished for, whenever she willed it, was to be hers. That was the natural order of these sort of things. Plus on top of that, besides the brothers themselves, Evras was the only one who knew the truth of what had happened that night when she was kissed by a man who wasn’t her husband. She knew that an innocent man had been killed that night, sent to his death by Timaeus’s hand, all to save a guilty brother. Whether she truly understood it or not, this one woman held the lives of both brothers in her hands and one confession to her jealous husband could end his house. Denying her Roxana’s employment might just be the nudge that could bring the barely stable house of cards that Timaeus had built crashing down. Of course, Timaeus truly did not believe that Evras would be that vindictive or cruel-hearted; she was the only Thanasi he marginally trusted, after all. However, it would be foolish to not be wary of upsetting someone who held so much power over his family.
As he glanced back at Roxana, who was clearly listening to their whispered conversation, he couldn’t blindly say yes either. He did not know if she was aware of the web of lies he had constructed to hide her parentage. One accidental slip of the tongue could spell trouble for the family, especially as Magnus all, but said that he would be looking into Periella’s lineage. If Roxana wasn’t careful, the truth of that would be easy to find. Plus it didn’t hurt that she had no knowledge of what had happened that night and what her cousin Silanos had done to shame Evras. Any misstep on Roxana’s part could only further add to that. Timaeus very simply could not agree to this either, not with her aware of the lies she would need to defend and the vital role she would need to play of mending the relations between this princess and the Valaoritis family. It was too risky. Especially with Roxana’s feisty nature, making it possible that she would not take this well. He could see as much already on her face. Surely, she thought that this job would merely be an honor, not the test that Timaeus had already construed it to be.
That only left one safe option. Delay Evras just long enough to prepare Roxana for what she would be heading into. It was the only middle ground that Timaeus could muster and he knew he could play it properly…
… But then Roxana spoke.
Addressing the princess, his cousin informed the noble pair that being considered was an honor for her. Instantly, a slight panic gripped Timaeus’s chest. The opening of a conversation between the two women could rob the nobleman of the chance to inform Roxana of the political game behind such an arrangement. It also made it harder for him to delay his answer to Evras’s request as Roxana was clearly excited for such an opportunity.
In fact, that wide grin on her face broke something within Tim as well. Oh Zeus, she has no idea… He thought silently as his initial hardened and angry expression softened. Timaeus hadn’t told her what had happened as a way of protecting her, now she would have to pay the price of her cousins' crimes to protect them. It was hardly fair and at this point, there was no way that Timaeus could spare her from that responsibility. He had to say yes to Evras. Still, he could not allow his cousin to be blind to what she needed to do.
While both women were distracted with each other, Timaeus silently motioned with his head for Maleos to distract Roxana. Hopefully, he would understand and do something to get a hold of her attention. Anything that would keep the conversation between Roxana and Evras from happening. But given how Maleos was just as blind as Roxana to what Tim was worried over, his success at the task would probably be limited.
So, Tim did what he had settled on in the beginning; delay Evras.
“As my cousin said,” He started to say as he cast a slightly stern look Roxana’s way, warning her without words that she should not speak against what he was about to say, “It truly is an honor to consider my cousin for your employ, Princess.” He paused for a moment, clearly struggling to find the right way of wording what he was going to say next so it would not cause offense or disappointment for the two women who were listening to his answer. “For that, we are truly grateful. However, this is a decision that should not be made lightly, especially given how vital my cousin is the Valaoritis household as well. There is much to be considered with your offer and this--” He said, motioning to the piles of supplies and the rubble of the lower levels surrounding them, “--is hardly the place for weighing things of such importance.”
Sensing that his cousin would not be pleased with her cousin saying what would probably appear to be a ‘no’ Timaeus allowed for only a moment for his statement to sink in before speaking again. “Would you be so kind, my lady, to allow my family a few days to consider your offer? We will be hasty in our decision, of course.” His voice wavered a bit as he was truly afraid that his decision to delay what will have to be an obvious acceptance would be taken by the lady as an offensive dismissal of the magnificent opportunity that she was offering Roxana. Truly, with all of Timaeus’s concerns aside, the mere opportunity to serve as Evras’s lady would raise Roxana to heights that even her being given the family name wouldn’t do. If she gained Evras’s favor and kept a spotless reputation about her, she would almost be guaranteed a fine marriage and an easy life with or without the Valaoritis name. This was an opportunity that Timaeus could not realistically keep from the girl he considered to be more of a sister than a cousin.
It was all the more reason for him to say yes after she was made aware of what was at stake… if only everyone here would accept his own request for time to ‘consider’ this obvious decision…
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Out of all the things that Evras could say, Timaeus certainly did not expect the offer that she made to the Baron. It was shocking enough to him that it was enough to pull his gaze away from his cousin and best friend, only to stare at the princess with a look of shock upon his face. Never once did he ever consider that Roxana would be considered for a position as a lady in waiting to a member of a dynestia. In truth, he believed that her own status as a bastard blocked her from having such a chance with a member of a Varanos, yet here the princess was offering to hire Roxana right then and there.
Timaeus didn’t know what to say and it showed when he thanked the princess for her praise, stuttering through his whole statement, “Thank you, my lady. My cousin would be proud to know of the praises you speak of her as well as take pride in the offer you are making.” There was no denying what a great honor it was for Evras to even consider Roxana for such a role, but Timaeus couldn’t bring himself to say anything confirming that she would take such a position.
Not when the overprotective, worrisome thoughts began to wrongly dissect what Evras was offering to the Valaoritis bastard.
In truth, Timaeus knew that he was in no position to deny Evras her request. Not only was she a member of the family he was sworn to, but she was also a princess of Colchis. Whatever she wished for, whenever she willed it, was to be hers. That was the natural order of these sort of things. Plus on top of that, besides the brothers themselves, Evras was the only one who knew the truth of what had happened that night when she was kissed by a man who wasn’t her husband. She knew that an innocent man had been killed that night, sent to his death by Timaeus’s hand, all to save a guilty brother. Whether she truly understood it or not, this one woman held the lives of both brothers in her hands and one confession to her jealous husband could end his house. Denying her Roxana’s employment might just be the nudge that could bring the barely stable house of cards that Timaeus had built crashing down. Of course, Timaeus truly did not believe that Evras would be that vindictive or cruel-hearted; she was the only Thanasi he marginally trusted, after all. However, it would be foolish to not be wary of upsetting someone who held so much power over his family.
As he glanced back at Roxana, who was clearly listening to their whispered conversation, he couldn’t blindly say yes either. He did not know if she was aware of the web of lies he had constructed to hide her parentage. One accidental slip of the tongue could spell trouble for the family, especially as Magnus all, but said that he would be looking into Periella’s lineage. If Roxana wasn’t careful, the truth of that would be easy to find. Plus it didn’t hurt that she had no knowledge of what had happened that night and what her cousin Silanos had done to shame Evras. Any misstep on Roxana’s part could only further add to that. Timaeus very simply could not agree to this either, not with her aware of the lies she would need to defend and the vital role she would need to play of mending the relations between this princess and the Valaoritis family. It was too risky. Especially with Roxana’s feisty nature, making it possible that she would not take this well. He could see as much already on her face. Surely, she thought that this job would merely be an honor, not the test that Timaeus had already construed it to be.
That only left one safe option. Delay Evras just long enough to prepare Roxana for what she would be heading into. It was the only middle ground that Timaeus could muster and he knew he could play it properly…
… But then Roxana spoke.
Addressing the princess, his cousin informed the noble pair that being considered was an honor for her. Instantly, a slight panic gripped Timaeus’s chest. The opening of a conversation between the two women could rob the nobleman of the chance to inform Roxana of the political game behind such an arrangement. It also made it harder for him to delay his answer to Evras’s request as Roxana was clearly excited for such an opportunity.
In fact, that wide grin on her face broke something within Tim as well. Oh Zeus, she has no idea… He thought silently as his initial hardened and angry expression softened. Timaeus hadn’t told her what had happened as a way of protecting her, now she would have to pay the price of her cousins' crimes to protect them. It was hardly fair and at this point, there was no way that Timaeus could spare her from that responsibility. He had to say yes to Evras. Still, he could not allow his cousin to be blind to what she needed to do.
While both women were distracted with each other, Timaeus silently motioned with his head for Maleos to distract Roxana. Hopefully, he would understand and do something to get a hold of her attention. Anything that would keep the conversation between Roxana and Evras from happening. But given how Maleos was just as blind as Roxana to what Tim was worried over, his success at the task would probably be limited.
So, Tim did what he had settled on in the beginning; delay Evras.
“As my cousin said,” He started to say as he cast a slightly stern look Roxana’s way, warning her without words that she should not speak against what he was about to say, “It truly is an honor to consider my cousin for your employ, Princess.” He paused for a moment, clearly struggling to find the right way of wording what he was going to say next so it would not cause offense or disappointment for the two women who were listening to his answer. “For that, we are truly grateful. However, this is a decision that should not be made lightly, especially given how vital my cousin is the Valaoritis household as well. There is much to be considered with your offer and this--” He said, motioning to the piles of supplies and the rubble of the lower levels surrounding them, “--is hardly the place for weighing things of such importance.”
Sensing that his cousin would not be pleased with her cousin saying what would probably appear to be a ‘no’ Timaeus allowed for only a moment for his statement to sink in before speaking again. “Would you be so kind, my lady, to allow my family a few days to consider your offer? We will be hasty in our decision, of course.” His voice wavered a bit as he was truly afraid that his decision to delay what will have to be an obvious acceptance would be taken by the lady as an offensive dismissal of the magnificent opportunity that she was offering Roxana. Truly, with all of Timaeus’s concerns aside, the mere opportunity to serve as Evras’s lady would raise Roxana to heights that even her being given the family name wouldn’t do. If she gained Evras’s favor and kept a spotless reputation about her, she would almost be guaranteed a fine marriage and an easy life with or without the Valaoritis name. This was an opportunity that Timaeus could not realistically keep from the girl he considered to be more of a sister than a cousin.
It was all the more reason for him to say yes after she was made aware of what was at stake… if only everyone here would accept his own request for time to ‘consider’ this obvious decision…
Out of all the things that Evras could say, Timaeus certainly did not expect the offer that she made to the Baron. It was shocking enough to him that it was enough to pull his gaze away from his cousin and best friend, only to stare at the princess with a look of shock upon his face. Never once did he ever consider that Roxana would be considered for a position as a lady in waiting to a member of a dynestia. In truth, he believed that her own status as a bastard blocked her from having such a chance with a member of a Varanos, yet here the princess was offering to hire Roxana right then and there.
Timaeus didn’t know what to say and it showed when he thanked the princess for her praise, stuttering through his whole statement, “Thank you, my lady. My cousin would be proud to know of the praises you speak of her as well as take pride in the offer you are making.” There was no denying what a great honor it was for Evras to even consider Roxana for such a role, but Timaeus couldn’t bring himself to say anything confirming that she would take such a position.
Not when the overprotective, worrisome thoughts began to wrongly dissect what Evras was offering to the Valaoritis bastard.
In truth, Timaeus knew that he was in no position to deny Evras her request. Not only was she a member of the family he was sworn to, but she was also a princess of Colchis. Whatever she wished for, whenever she willed it, was to be hers. That was the natural order of these sort of things. Plus on top of that, besides the brothers themselves, Evras was the only one who knew the truth of what had happened that night when she was kissed by a man who wasn’t her husband. She knew that an innocent man had been killed that night, sent to his death by Timaeus’s hand, all to save a guilty brother. Whether she truly understood it or not, this one woman held the lives of both brothers in her hands and one confession to her jealous husband could end his house. Denying her Roxana’s employment might just be the nudge that could bring the barely stable house of cards that Timaeus had built crashing down. Of course, Timaeus truly did not believe that Evras would be that vindictive or cruel-hearted; she was the only Thanasi he marginally trusted, after all. However, it would be foolish to not be wary of upsetting someone who held so much power over his family.
As he glanced back at Roxana, who was clearly listening to their whispered conversation, he couldn’t blindly say yes either. He did not know if she was aware of the web of lies he had constructed to hide her parentage. One accidental slip of the tongue could spell trouble for the family, especially as Magnus all, but said that he would be looking into Periella’s lineage. If Roxana wasn’t careful, the truth of that would be easy to find. Plus it didn’t hurt that she had no knowledge of what had happened that night and what her cousin Silanos had done to shame Evras. Any misstep on Roxana’s part could only further add to that. Timaeus very simply could not agree to this either, not with her aware of the lies she would need to defend and the vital role she would need to play of mending the relations between this princess and the Valaoritis family. It was too risky. Especially with Roxana’s feisty nature, making it possible that she would not take this well. He could see as much already on her face. Surely, she thought that this job would merely be an honor, not the test that Timaeus had already construed it to be.
That only left one safe option. Delay Evras just long enough to prepare Roxana for what she would be heading into. It was the only middle ground that Timaeus could muster and he knew he could play it properly…
… But then Roxana spoke.
Addressing the princess, his cousin informed the noble pair that being considered was an honor for her. Instantly, a slight panic gripped Timaeus’s chest. The opening of a conversation between the two women could rob the nobleman of the chance to inform Roxana of the political game behind such an arrangement. It also made it harder for him to delay his answer to Evras’s request as Roxana was clearly excited for such an opportunity.
In fact, that wide grin on her face broke something within Tim as well. Oh Zeus, she has no idea… He thought silently as his initial hardened and angry expression softened. Timaeus hadn’t told her what had happened as a way of protecting her, now she would have to pay the price of her cousins' crimes to protect them. It was hardly fair and at this point, there was no way that Timaeus could spare her from that responsibility. He had to say yes to Evras. Still, he could not allow his cousin to be blind to what she needed to do.
While both women were distracted with each other, Timaeus silently motioned with his head for Maleos to distract Roxana. Hopefully, he would understand and do something to get a hold of her attention. Anything that would keep the conversation between Roxana and Evras from happening. But given how Maleos was just as blind as Roxana to what Tim was worried over, his success at the task would probably be limited.
So, Tim did what he had settled on in the beginning; delay Evras.
“As my cousin said,” He started to say as he cast a slightly stern look Roxana’s way, warning her without words that she should not speak against what he was about to say, “It truly is an honor to consider my cousin for your employ, Princess.” He paused for a moment, clearly struggling to find the right way of wording what he was going to say next so it would not cause offense or disappointment for the two women who were listening to his answer. “For that, we are truly grateful. However, this is a decision that should not be made lightly, especially given how vital my cousin is the Valaoritis household as well. There is much to be considered with your offer and this--” He said, motioning to the piles of supplies and the rubble of the lower levels surrounding them, “--is hardly the place for weighing things of such importance.”
Sensing that his cousin would not be pleased with her cousin saying what would probably appear to be a ‘no’ Timaeus allowed for only a moment for his statement to sink in before speaking again. “Would you be so kind, my lady, to allow my family a few days to consider your offer? We will be hasty in our decision, of course.” His voice wavered a bit as he was truly afraid that his decision to delay what will have to be an obvious acceptance would be taken by the lady as an offensive dismissal of the magnificent opportunity that she was offering Roxana. Truly, with all of Timaeus’s concerns aside, the mere opportunity to serve as Evras’s lady would raise Roxana to heights that even her being given the family name wouldn’t do. If she gained Evras’s favor and kept a spotless reputation about her, she would almost be guaranteed a fine marriage and an easy life with or without the Valaoritis name. This was an opportunity that Timaeus could not realistically keep from the girl he considered to be more of a sister than a cousin.
It was all the more reason for him to say yes after she was made aware of what was at stake… if only everyone here would accept his own request for time to ‘consider’ this obvious decision…
At least the girl in question seemed amenable, even eager, to her suggestion, if her cousin was not. Lord Timaeus's hesitation had Evras raising a brow - did not ever noble house wish for their relatives or offspring to serve the royal family? Evras had no underlying motives, merely a need for an extra pair of hands who would know her well enough and stay by her side should the stirring in her womb prove real. The recent departure of her most loyal retainer in her marriage arranged by her parents meant Evras needed a new retainer, a lady's maid who would serve her, and Lady Roxana seeemd the perfect candidate, especially as the Valaoritis family had always been seen kindly by her husband's family. She doubted Zanon would disagree with her choice.
Plus, she merely wished to make life easier for the family. Her one errant behavior would likely put Silanos in great danger should her husband ever find out, and while Evras never wished for Zanon to know the truth behind the identity of the shadow on the Kotas manor doorstep that night, she could do her part in helping other members of the family.
Still, the surprise was clear in her face as Timaeus jumped in before she could even praise Roxana for her behavior, and that she would have no qualms about her working with her. Like it or not however, Roxana's choice was no choice of her own, and as a woman who was married, Evras understood that far too well. Despite her husband's gentle treatment of hers, had Zanon disagreed, she was in no position to go against her husband's dictation either, and for that, Evras would acquiesce to Timaeus's decision.
Nodding in agreement, she turned her gaze to give Roxana a kindly smile, and one more to Maleos in turn. "In which case, I must make my leave for now. My family would be waiting for me." Turning to Timaeus with that same smile, the woman continued, "I wish to hear good news from you post haste, Lord Timaeus. I believe your cousin would make a splendid addition as my lady's maid." She paused, as if considering her words, before finishing. "I merely wish to be of assistance."
With one last small curtsy, Evras made her way back to the family carriage, detouring around to pick up her errant son playing with the children who had also been around, before making their way back to the family manor.
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At least the girl in question seemed amenable, even eager, to her suggestion, if her cousin was not. Lord Timaeus's hesitation had Evras raising a brow - did not ever noble house wish for their relatives or offspring to serve the royal family? Evras had no underlying motives, merely a need for an extra pair of hands who would know her well enough and stay by her side should the stirring in her womb prove real. The recent departure of her most loyal retainer in her marriage arranged by her parents meant Evras needed a new retainer, a lady's maid who would serve her, and Lady Roxana seeemd the perfect candidate, especially as the Valaoritis family had always been seen kindly by her husband's family. She doubted Zanon would disagree with her choice.
Plus, she merely wished to make life easier for the family. Her one errant behavior would likely put Silanos in great danger should her husband ever find out, and while Evras never wished for Zanon to know the truth behind the identity of the shadow on the Kotas manor doorstep that night, she could do her part in helping other members of the family.
Still, the surprise was clear in her face as Timaeus jumped in before she could even praise Roxana for her behavior, and that she would have no qualms about her working with her. Like it or not however, Roxana's choice was no choice of her own, and as a woman who was married, Evras understood that far too well. Despite her husband's gentle treatment of hers, had Zanon disagreed, she was in no position to go against her husband's dictation either, and for that, Evras would acquiesce to Timaeus's decision.
Nodding in agreement, she turned her gaze to give Roxana a kindly smile, and one more to Maleos in turn. "In which case, I must make my leave for now. My family would be waiting for me." Turning to Timaeus with that same smile, the woman continued, "I wish to hear good news from you post haste, Lord Timaeus. I believe your cousin would make a splendid addition as my lady's maid." She paused, as if considering her words, before finishing. "I merely wish to be of assistance."
With one last small curtsy, Evras made her way back to the family carriage, detouring around to pick up her errant son playing with the children who had also been around, before making their way back to the family manor.
At least the girl in question seemed amenable, even eager, to her suggestion, if her cousin was not. Lord Timaeus's hesitation had Evras raising a brow - did not ever noble house wish for their relatives or offspring to serve the royal family? Evras had no underlying motives, merely a need for an extra pair of hands who would know her well enough and stay by her side should the stirring in her womb prove real. The recent departure of her most loyal retainer in her marriage arranged by her parents meant Evras needed a new retainer, a lady's maid who would serve her, and Lady Roxana seeemd the perfect candidate, especially as the Valaoritis family had always been seen kindly by her husband's family. She doubted Zanon would disagree with her choice.
Plus, she merely wished to make life easier for the family. Her one errant behavior would likely put Silanos in great danger should her husband ever find out, and while Evras never wished for Zanon to know the truth behind the identity of the shadow on the Kotas manor doorstep that night, she could do her part in helping other members of the family.
Still, the surprise was clear in her face as Timaeus jumped in before she could even praise Roxana for her behavior, and that she would have no qualms about her working with her. Like it or not however, Roxana's choice was no choice of her own, and as a woman who was married, Evras understood that far too well. Despite her husband's gentle treatment of hers, had Zanon disagreed, she was in no position to go against her husband's dictation either, and for that, Evras would acquiesce to Timaeus's decision.
Nodding in agreement, she turned her gaze to give Roxana a kindly smile, and one more to Maleos in turn. "In which case, I must make my leave for now. My family would be waiting for me." Turning to Timaeus with that same smile, the woman continued, "I wish to hear good news from you post haste, Lord Timaeus. I believe your cousin would make a splendid addition as my lady's maid." She paused, as if considering her words, before finishing. "I merely wish to be of assistance."
With one last small curtsy, Evras made her way back to the family carriage, detouring around to pick up her errant son playing with the children who had also been around, before making their way back to the family manor.
Maleos didn't miss Timaeus' head movement, but he had no idea what he was trying to convey with it. Maleos was not great at, well anything to do with being subtle. If it was not said in clear words, Maleos was oblivious to it. And so he stood there, eyebrows furrowing just the slightest bit as he tried to figure out what it was Tim wanted him to do. He continued to stand there in waiting as Timaeus and Evras continued their conversation, catching on half way through Timaeus' words that he probably wanted the Captain to distract Roxana in order for him to discuss her potential employment without her listening. It was too late at that point, and all Maleos could do was hope that his best friend wouldn't be upset with him for not getting the hint earlier.
When the princess began to take her leave, Maleos gave her another polite bow, knowing his place and showing the respect she deserved with her title. He watched her take her leave, stepping back over to Timaeus once she was out of sight and earshot.
"Well handled, my lord." Maleos said, a tiny hint of a teasing grin on his face before it fell back to it's neutral expression.
Maleos looked around, the work around them still ongoing, and now that he had had some thing to eat and more than his fair share of water, he felt rejuvenated and ready to get back in there himself. As much as he would have loved to stay and have a discussion with Timaeus, it felt like it had been awhile since the two had been able to spend time together outside of formal reasons, he wanted to get back to the effort to rebuild even more.
And so, he finished any remaining water in his cup before passing it back to Roxana.
"My lord, my lady. I must return to work, there is much to be done, and every extra set of hands is needed." He started, now that no one important was around, he grabbed Timaeus' forearm in a sort of friendly handshake, a rare smile on his face as he did so. "We will speak again soon." He assured his friend. He let go of the other mans arm and gave Roxana another bow.
Once his farewells were said, Maleos turned and headed back to where the work was being done, not hesitating to get right back into the thick of things.
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Maleos didn't miss Timaeus' head movement, but he had no idea what he was trying to convey with it. Maleos was not great at, well anything to do with being subtle. If it was not said in clear words, Maleos was oblivious to it. And so he stood there, eyebrows furrowing just the slightest bit as he tried to figure out what it was Tim wanted him to do. He continued to stand there in waiting as Timaeus and Evras continued their conversation, catching on half way through Timaeus' words that he probably wanted the Captain to distract Roxana in order for him to discuss her potential employment without her listening. It was too late at that point, and all Maleos could do was hope that his best friend wouldn't be upset with him for not getting the hint earlier.
When the princess began to take her leave, Maleos gave her another polite bow, knowing his place and showing the respect she deserved with her title. He watched her take her leave, stepping back over to Timaeus once she was out of sight and earshot.
"Well handled, my lord." Maleos said, a tiny hint of a teasing grin on his face before it fell back to it's neutral expression.
Maleos looked around, the work around them still ongoing, and now that he had had some thing to eat and more than his fair share of water, he felt rejuvenated and ready to get back in there himself. As much as he would have loved to stay and have a discussion with Timaeus, it felt like it had been awhile since the two had been able to spend time together outside of formal reasons, he wanted to get back to the effort to rebuild even more.
And so, he finished any remaining water in his cup before passing it back to Roxana.
"My lord, my lady. I must return to work, there is much to be done, and every extra set of hands is needed." He started, now that no one important was around, he grabbed Timaeus' forearm in a sort of friendly handshake, a rare smile on his face as he did so. "We will speak again soon." He assured his friend. He let go of the other mans arm and gave Roxana another bow.
Once his farewells were said, Maleos turned and headed back to where the work was being done, not hesitating to get right back into the thick of things.
Maleos didn't miss Timaeus' head movement, but he had no idea what he was trying to convey with it. Maleos was not great at, well anything to do with being subtle. If it was not said in clear words, Maleos was oblivious to it. And so he stood there, eyebrows furrowing just the slightest bit as he tried to figure out what it was Tim wanted him to do. He continued to stand there in waiting as Timaeus and Evras continued their conversation, catching on half way through Timaeus' words that he probably wanted the Captain to distract Roxana in order for him to discuss her potential employment without her listening. It was too late at that point, and all Maleos could do was hope that his best friend wouldn't be upset with him for not getting the hint earlier.
When the princess began to take her leave, Maleos gave her another polite bow, knowing his place and showing the respect she deserved with her title. He watched her take her leave, stepping back over to Timaeus once she was out of sight and earshot.
"Well handled, my lord." Maleos said, a tiny hint of a teasing grin on his face before it fell back to it's neutral expression.
Maleos looked around, the work around them still ongoing, and now that he had had some thing to eat and more than his fair share of water, he felt rejuvenated and ready to get back in there himself. As much as he would have loved to stay and have a discussion with Timaeus, it felt like it had been awhile since the two had been able to spend time together outside of formal reasons, he wanted to get back to the effort to rebuild even more.
And so, he finished any remaining water in his cup before passing it back to Roxana.
"My lord, my lady. I must return to work, there is much to be done, and every extra set of hands is needed." He started, now that no one important was around, he grabbed Timaeus' forearm in a sort of friendly handshake, a rare smile on his face as he did so. "We will speak again soon." He assured his friend. He let go of the other mans arm and gave Roxana another bow.
Once his farewells were said, Maleos turned and headed back to where the work was being done, not hesitating to get right back into the thick of things.
Roxana felt the air in the sails of her hopeful ship wane and then disappear completely when Tim didn’t immediately agree to the princess’ offer. Her sailing days were over before they started. The pause made her nearly drop her sunny and polite attitude and question her cousin right then and there. Another glance at Evras was the only thing that made her keep her composure. With very little chance for adventure or excitement, being a secret and all (at least until today), the prospect of leaving home and meeting new people who would give her the benefit of the doubt, judge her on merit, and a job with some important responsibility made her desperate for Tim to agree. She was nearly an adult now and was tired of living life as a child, kept indoors and protected.
Tim’s stern look made her heart sink into the depths of the ocean, along with the sails and ship that was once filled with hope and life only to be crushed beneath the waves. Still, she hid these emotions well. If she had learned anything from her upbringing it was how to hide the secrets that she knew and was and anything else that wasn’t appropriate for the rest of the world.
“However, this is a decision that should not be made lightly…”
He was putting Evras off but it was probably just a polite way of saying no. Roxana did not allow the uncertainty of his words to fool her into hoping they were actually uncertain. She knew politics and no one could outright say no. He was dancing around it and would find an excuse later of why Roxana’s services could not be given away to the princess. It was all she could do to hold up the polite visage she was desperately holding onto as the water slowly crawled up her body and went over her head, filling her eyes and lungs. The voyage would not happen and the ship and crew were lost. Even if he was simply going to think about it, Roxana was no naive enough to think that if the position needed filled soon, that there weren't a hundred other young women who would clamor at the opportunity. Hesitation might mean loss just as much as simply saying no.
Tim put the family first. He always would and it shouldn’t have surprised her. Her name and happiness were always going to be secondary and she could hardly blame him really, but that wouldn’t stop her from being bitterly disappointed. The images of her new life with Evras flashed before her and faded just as quickly. A new room of her own, a chance to have friends her age, responsibilities and work she could be proud and to be tired in a good way after the end of a day. Then, the future, the princess introducing her to the right people, favoring her and showing her off to society. The fact that she couldn’t make this decision about her future for herself made her furious.
Roxana bit her tongue hard. She wanted so badly to follow as the princess departed but she did her due diligence and smiled and bowed instead. Her eyes narrowed slightly when Evras said she wished to be of assistance and Roxana felt more like a game piece in that moment having no idea what Tim needed assistance for involving her.
She barely noticed Maleos leaving and distantly wished him well before turning her blazing hazel eyes upon her cousin. The fire should have put out the moisture that welled in them but a tear fell anyway, “Excuse me, cousin, I must get back to my duties.” She said almost too softly to hear before turning away on her heel and rushing from the scene, trying to focus on serving bread and water rather than the opportunity of a lifetime being tossed into the mud right in front of her.
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Roxana felt the air in the sails of her hopeful ship wane and then disappear completely when Tim didn’t immediately agree to the princess’ offer. Her sailing days were over before they started. The pause made her nearly drop her sunny and polite attitude and question her cousin right then and there. Another glance at Evras was the only thing that made her keep her composure. With very little chance for adventure or excitement, being a secret and all (at least until today), the prospect of leaving home and meeting new people who would give her the benefit of the doubt, judge her on merit, and a job with some important responsibility made her desperate for Tim to agree. She was nearly an adult now and was tired of living life as a child, kept indoors and protected.
Tim’s stern look made her heart sink into the depths of the ocean, along with the sails and ship that was once filled with hope and life only to be crushed beneath the waves. Still, she hid these emotions well. If she had learned anything from her upbringing it was how to hide the secrets that she knew and was and anything else that wasn’t appropriate for the rest of the world.
“However, this is a decision that should not be made lightly…”
He was putting Evras off but it was probably just a polite way of saying no. Roxana did not allow the uncertainty of his words to fool her into hoping they were actually uncertain. She knew politics and no one could outright say no. He was dancing around it and would find an excuse later of why Roxana’s services could not be given away to the princess. It was all she could do to hold up the polite visage she was desperately holding onto as the water slowly crawled up her body and went over her head, filling her eyes and lungs. The voyage would not happen and the ship and crew were lost. Even if he was simply going to think about it, Roxana was no naive enough to think that if the position needed filled soon, that there weren't a hundred other young women who would clamor at the opportunity. Hesitation might mean loss just as much as simply saying no.
Tim put the family first. He always would and it shouldn’t have surprised her. Her name and happiness were always going to be secondary and she could hardly blame him really, but that wouldn’t stop her from being bitterly disappointed. The images of her new life with Evras flashed before her and faded just as quickly. A new room of her own, a chance to have friends her age, responsibilities and work she could be proud and to be tired in a good way after the end of a day. Then, the future, the princess introducing her to the right people, favoring her and showing her off to society. The fact that she couldn’t make this decision about her future for herself made her furious.
Roxana bit her tongue hard. She wanted so badly to follow as the princess departed but she did her due diligence and smiled and bowed instead. Her eyes narrowed slightly when Evras said she wished to be of assistance and Roxana felt more like a game piece in that moment having no idea what Tim needed assistance for involving her.
She barely noticed Maleos leaving and distantly wished him well before turning her blazing hazel eyes upon her cousin. The fire should have put out the moisture that welled in them but a tear fell anyway, “Excuse me, cousin, I must get back to my duties.” She said almost too softly to hear before turning away on her heel and rushing from the scene, trying to focus on serving bread and water rather than the opportunity of a lifetime being tossed into the mud right in front of her.
Roxana felt the air in the sails of her hopeful ship wane and then disappear completely when Tim didn’t immediately agree to the princess’ offer. Her sailing days were over before they started. The pause made her nearly drop her sunny and polite attitude and question her cousin right then and there. Another glance at Evras was the only thing that made her keep her composure. With very little chance for adventure or excitement, being a secret and all (at least until today), the prospect of leaving home and meeting new people who would give her the benefit of the doubt, judge her on merit, and a job with some important responsibility made her desperate for Tim to agree. She was nearly an adult now and was tired of living life as a child, kept indoors and protected.
Tim’s stern look made her heart sink into the depths of the ocean, along with the sails and ship that was once filled with hope and life only to be crushed beneath the waves. Still, she hid these emotions well. If she had learned anything from her upbringing it was how to hide the secrets that she knew and was and anything else that wasn’t appropriate for the rest of the world.
“However, this is a decision that should not be made lightly…”
He was putting Evras off but it was probably just a polite way of saying no. Roxana did not allow the uncertainty of his words to fool her into hoping they were actually uncertain. She knew politics and no one could outright say no. He was dancing around it and would find an excuse later of why Roxana’s services could not be given away to the princess. It was all she could do to hold up the polite visage she was desperately holding onto as the water slowly crawled up her body and went over her head, filling her eyes and lungs. The voyage would not happen and the ship and crew were lost. Even if he was simply going to think about it, Roxana was no naive enough to think that if the position needed filled soon, that there weren't a hundred other young women who would clamor at the opportunity. Hesitation might mean loss just as much as simply saying no.
Tim put the family first. He always would and it shouldn’t have surprised her. Her name and happiness were always going to be secondary and she could hardly blame him really, but that wouldn’t stop her from being bitterly disappointed. The images of her new life with Evras flashed before her and faded just as quickly. A new room of her own, a chance to have friends her age, responsibilities and work she could be proud and to be tired in a good way after the end of a day. Then, the future, the princess introducing her to the right people, favoring her and showing her off to society. The fact that she couldn’t make this decision about her future for herself made her furious.
Roxana bit her tongue hard. She wanted so badly to follow as the princess departed but she did her due diligence and smiled and bowed instead. Her eyes narrowed slightly when Evras said she wished to be of assistance and Roxana felt more like a game piece in that moment having no idea what Tim needed assistance for involving her.
She barely noticed Maleos leaving and distantly wished him well before turning her blazing hazel eyes upon her cousin. The fire should have put out the moisture that welled in them but a tear fell anyway, “Excuse me, cousin, I must get back to my duties.” She said almost too softly to hear before turning away on her heel and rushing from the scene, trying to focus on serving bread and water rather than the opportunity of a lifetime being tossed into the mud right in front of her.