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In a few days a ship would carry him and his small retinue to Athenia, across the waves to become the fiance of a woman he had never met, prince of a country he had never been to. It was all so surreal, saying goodbye to his father, uncle, and sisters had been something he'd never expected to do, and so to have it all flashing past him so quickly, he wasn't sure exactly how to deal with it all. Instead he had turned to someone who he had frequently found was an equal companion in life and friend as well as cousin.
Visiting the Mikaelidas manor in Vasiliadon for perhaps the last time was bittersweet, and it was rare enough that Achilleas was in residence, but given the turmoil of recent events in the kingdom that saw Stephanos of Mikaelidas on the throne instead of his father or brother, it was understandable. Achilleas had to be here to show support for his cousin. Iason wouldn't lie if he said that seeing the way the throne had changed hands in such a bloody and quick manner didn't make him uneasy. As far as he was aware, there were plenty of heirs to the Athenian throne, and perhaps after a time he could convince his new bride to return to Taengea with him, but until he was settled that would be an unlikely visit.
A young maid showed him into the attendance room to wait for her master, and he noted the smile on her lips when he'd said who he was here to visit. She was pretty, young, certainly the sort who might find herself falling for her master, but he doubted Achilleas was even aware of it if he was correct. As evidenced by his own lack of wife previously Iason was not the most in tune with the moods and whims of the female persuasion. He stood with the now very wrinkled letter in his hand from having opened and read it so many times, looking over the words again until the maid announced her master's arrival and he turned with a smile.
"Cousin, I hope you have time. I didn't think to write ahead."
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In a few days a ship would carry him and his small retinue to Athenia, across the waves to become the fiance of a woman he had never met, prince of a country he had never been to. It was all so surreal, saying goodbye to his father, uncle, and sisters had been something he'd never expected to do, and so to have it all flashing past him so quickly, he wasn't sure exactly how to deal with it all. Instead he had turned to someone who he had frequently found was an equal companion in life and friend as well as cousin.
Visiting the Mikaelidas manor in Vasiliadon for perhaps the last time was bittersweet, and it was rare enough that Achilleas was in residence, but given the turmoil of recent events in the kingdom that saw Stephanos of Mikaelidas on the throne instead of his father or brother, it was understandable. Achilleas had to be here to show support for his cousin. Iason wouldn't lie if he said that seeing the way the throne had changed hands in such a bloody and quick manner didn't make him uneasy. As far as he was aware, there were plenty of heirs to the Athenian throne, and perhaps after a time he could convince his new bride to return to Taengea with him, but until he was settled that would be an unlikely visit.
A young maid showed him into the attendance room to wait for her master, and he noted the smile on her lips when he'd said who he was here to visit. She was pretty, young, certainly the sort who might find herself falling for her master, but he doubted Achilleas was even aware of it if he was correct. As evidenced by his own lack of wife previously Iason was not the most in tune with the moods and whims of the female persuasion. He stood with the now very wrinkled letter in his hand from having opened and read it so many times, looking over the words again until the maid announced her master's arrival and he turned with a smile.
"Cousin, I hope you have time. I didn't think to write ahead."
In a few days a ship would carry him and his small retinue to Athenia, across the waves to become the fiance of a woman he had never met, prince of a country he had never been to. It was all so surreal, saying goodbye to his father, uncle, and sisters had been something he'd never expected to do, and so to have it all flashing past him so quickly, he wasn't sure exactly how to deal with it all. Instead he had turned to someone who he had frequently found was an equal companion in life and friend as well as cousin.
Visiting the Mikaelidas manor in Vasiliadon for perhaps the last time was bittersweet, and it was rare enough that Achilleas was in residence, but given the turmoil of recent events in the kingdom that saw Stephanos of Mikaelidas on the throne instead of his father or brother, it was understandable. Achilleas had to be here to show support for his cousin. Iason wouldn't lie if he said that seeing the way the throne had changed hands in such a bloody and quick manner didn't make him uneasy. As far as he was aware, there were plenty of heirs to the Athenian throne, and perhaps after a time he could convince his new bride to return to Taengea with him, but until he was settled that would be an unlikely visit.
A young maid showed him into the attendance room to wait for her master, and he noted the smile on her lips when he'd said who he was here to visit. She was pretty, young, certainly the sort who might find herself falling for her master, but he doubted Achilleas was even aware of it if he was correct. As evidenced by his own lack of wife previously Iason was not the most in tune with the moods and whims of the female persuasion. He stood with the now very wrinkled letter in his hand from having opened and read it so many times, looking over the words again until the maid announced her master's arrival and he turned with a smile.
"Cousin, I hope you have time. I didn't think to write ahead."
It was not unusual for Achilleas to receive visitors on those days he was back in the Capitol. Usually, his visits were fleeting, the majority of his time spent out in Euttica. He preferred it there if he were honest. Less expectation and complications, less of his father breathing down his neck.
But they found themselves in uncertain times, and so as of late, his days had been spent more often in Vasiliadon. Having returned to the city at the request of his father, that meeting had seen news that made it rather more prudent that he stay, for now at least. It did not hurt to be close to his family after such losses as they had all faced either.
Besides, Achilleas could not say that his father’s house did not offer its own comforts. Such as the girl who knocked upon his closed study door to inform him that he had one such visitor now. The Mikaelidas Lord lifted his gaze from the missive he had been writing, a quizzical “Oh?” upon his lips, which soon settled into a small smile for the tawny-haired servant who interrupted him.
News that it was his Dimitrou cousin was similarly pleasing, and Achilleas was quick to set down his stylus and head towards the solar room where Iason had been settled. He shared some commonalities with his younger cousin from his mother’s side, but time constraints meant it was a rarity for them to get to socialise with each other nowadays. Usually not a fan of announced visits, Achilleas could not claim to be so as he entered the receiving room to greet Iason.
“You are always welcome, Iason,” he responded, crossing the space to pull the man into a brief embrace. “I didn’t know you were coming to the city. Was it a planned trip?”
Stepping back to afford his cousin some space, Achilleas looked over the man and took in the paper the man clasped. “ You have news?” he asked, moving to sit upon one of the klines that littered the space. He was waiting on his cousin to make himself comfortable and to relay whatever it was he had come to tell when the door opened and a couple of servants entered to pour watered wine and set down a platter between the two Lords. Achilleas lifted his cup but did not drink, looked expectantly at Iason even as he idly waved the servants away.
“Out with it then. Or let me read that paper so well worried in your hands cousin. I trust nothing is wrong?”
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It was not unusual for Achilleas to receive visitors on those days he was back in the Capitol. Usually, his visits were fleeting, the majority of his time spent out in Euttica. He preferred it there if he were honest. Less expectation and complications, less of his father breathing down his neck.
But they found themselves in uncertain times, and so as of late, his days had been spent more often in Vasiliadon. Having returned to the city at the request of his father, that meeting had seen news that made it rather more prudent that he stay, for now at least. It did not hurt to be close to his family after such losses as they had all faced either.
Besides, Achilleas could not say that his father’s house did not offer its own comforts. Such as the girl who knocked upon his closed study door to inform him that he had one such visitor now. The Mikaelidas Lord lifted his gaze from the missive he had been writing, a quizzical “Oh?” upon his lips, which soon settled into a small smile for the tawny-haired servant who interrupted him.
News that it was his Dimitrou cousin was similarly pleasing, and Achilleas was quick to set down his stylus and head towards the solar room where Iason had been settled. He shared some commonalities with his younger cousin from his mother’s side, but time constraints meant it was a rarity for them to get to socialise with each other nowadays. Usually not a fan of announced visits, Achilleas could not claim to be so as he entered the receiving room to greet Iason.
“You are always welcome, Iason,” he responded, crossing the space to pull the man into a brief embrace. “I didn’t know you were coming to the city. Was it a planned trip?”
Stepping back to afford his cousin some space, Achilleas looked over the man and took in the paper the man clasped. “ You have news?” he asked, moving to sit upon one of the klines that littered the space. He was waiting on his cousin to make himself comfortable and to relay whatever it was he had come to tell when the door opened and a couple of servants entered to pour watered wine and set down a platter between the two Lords. Achilleas lifted his cup but did not drink, looked expectantly at Iason even as he idly waved the servants away.
“Out with it then. Or let me read that paper so well worried in your hands cousin. I trust nothing is wrong?”
It was not unusual for Achilleas to receive visitors on those days he was back in the Capitol. Usually, his visits were fleeting, the majority of his time spent out in Euttica. He preferred it there if he were honest. Less expectation and complications, less of his father breathing down his neck.
But they found themselves in uncertain times, and so as of late, his days had been spent more often in Vasiliadon. Having returned to the city at the request of his father, that meeting had seen news that made it rather more prudent that he stay, for now at least. It did not hurt to be close to his family after such losses as they had all faced either.
Besides, Achilleas could not say that his father’s house did not offer its own comforts. Such as the girl who knocked upon his closed study door to inform him that he had one such visitor now. The Mikaelidas Lord lifted his gaze from the missive he had been writing, a quizzical “Oh?” upon his lips, which soon settled into a small smile for the tawny-haired servant who interrupted him.
News that it was his Dimitrou cousin was similarly pleasing, and Achilleas was quick to set down his stylus and head towards the solar room where Iason had been settled. He shared some commonalities with his younger cousin from his mother’s side, but time constraints meant it was a rarity for them to get to socialise with each other nowadays. Usually not a fan of announced visits, Achilleas could not claim to be so as he entered the receiving room to greet Iason.
“You are always welcome, Iason,” he responded, crossing the space to pull the man into a brief embrace. “I didn’t know you were coming to the city. Was it a planned trip?”
Stepping back to afford his cousin some space, Achilleas looked over the man and took in the paper the man clasped. “ You have news?” he asked, moving to sit upon one of the klines that littered the space. He was waiting on his cousin to make himself comfortable and to relay whatever it was he had come to tell when the door opened and a couple of servants entered to pour watered wine and set down a platter between the two Lords. Achilleas lifted his cup but did not drink, looked expectantly at Iason even as he idly waved the servants away.
“Out with it then. Or let me read that paper so well worried in your hands cousin. I trust nothing is wrong?”
His grin widened as Achilleas pulled him into an embrace, returning the affection happily. With no brothers of his own, the two Mikaelidas cousins were the closest he could consider, and he adored both in their own way. Emilios was best at getting him out of his shell, perhaps even a bit too far out of his comfort zone, and Achilleas was always there for a steady presence, a good hunt, and logic. He was blessed in his family, and it was bittersweet that he would have to be leaving them behind along with his father and sisters. That would be the hardest part, being on his own without his family around him as he had always wished.
Iason didn't sit, still worrying the paper, until his cousin gestured for him to speak, flushing slightly at the sight of how crumpled the missive in his grip was. Handing it over, he took a cup of the wine for himself and took a sip before speaking to the contents. Every time he told someone new it seemed unreal. Why anyone want him for a princess was beyond his comprehension, he'd been under the impression the dashing knights and stoic sorts like his cousins were the preferred choices for them.
"I've been engaged, or will be formally once I arrive. To Princess Persephone of Xanthos." His smile was one of excitement, with an edge of nerves and uncertainty not so well hidden as he might have liked. "I leave for Athenia at dawn two days from now."
The young baron chuckled after another sip, thinking back with a rueful look at the last time he'd been teased by those at court about his unmarriageable state. Too dull for the Taengean women, at least those bold enough to express interest, that he'd never bedded one before was a constant source of teasing from Emilios and Stephanos who said he might live the life of a lonely priest.
"I suppose Emilios was wrong. I'll be the first married of us after all."
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His grin widened as Achilleas pulled him into an embrace, returning the affection happily. With no brothers of his own, the two Mikaelidas cousins were the closest he could consider, and he adored both in their own way. Emilios was best at getting him out of his shell, perhaps even a bit too far out of his comfort zone, and Achilleas was always there for a steady presence, a good hunt, and logic. He was blessed in his family, and it was bittersweet that he would have to be leaving them behind along with his father and sisters. That would be the hardest part, being on his own without his family around him as he had always wished.
Iason didn't sit, still worrying the paper, until his cousin gestured for him to speak, flushing slightly at the sight of how crumpled the missive in his grip was. Handing it over, he took a cup of the wine for himself and took a sip before speaking to the contents. Every time he told someone new it seemed unreal. Why anyone want him for a princess was beyond his comprehension, he'd been under the impression the dashing knights and stoic sorts like his cousins were the preferred choices for them.
"I've been engaged, or will be formally once I arrive. To Princess Persephone of Xanthos." His smile was one of excitement, with an edge of nerves and uncertainty not so well hidden as he might have liked. "I leave for Athenia at dawn two days from now."
The young baron chuckled after another sip, thinking back with a rueful look at the last time he'd been teased by those at court about his unmarriageable state. Too dull for the Taengean women, at least those bold enough to express interest, that he'd never bedded one before was a constant source of teasing from Emilios and Stephanos who said he might live the life of a lonely priest.
"I suppose Emilios was wrong. I'll be the first married of us after all."
His grin widened as Achilleas pulled him into an embrace, returning the affection happily. With no brothers of his own, the two Mikaelidas cousins were the closest he could consider, and he adored both in their own way. Emilios was best at getting him out of his shell, perhaps even a bit too far out of his comfort zone, and Achilleas was always there for a steady presence, a good hunt, and logic. He was blessed in his family, and it was bittersweet that he would have to be leaving them behind along with his father and sisters. That would be the hardest part, being on his own without his family around him as he had always wished.
Iason didn't sit, still worrying the paper, until his cousin gestured for him to speak, flushing slightly at the sight of how crumpled the missive in his grip was. Handing it over, he took a cup of the wine for himself and took a sip before speaking to the contents. Every time he told someone new it seemed unreal. Why anyone want him for a princess was beyond his comprehension, he'd been under the impression the dashing knights and stoic sorts like his cousins were the preferred choices for them.
"I've been engaged, or will be formally once I arrive. To Princess Persephone of Xanthos." His smile was one of excitement, with an edge of nerves and uncertainty not so well hidden as he might have liked. "I leave for Athenia at dawn two days from now."
The young baron chuckled after another sip, thinking back with a rueful look at the last time he'd been teased by those at court about his unmarriageable state. Too dull for the Taengean women, at least those bold enough to express interest, that he'd never bedded one before was a constant source of teasing from Emilios and Stephanos who said he might live the life of a lonely priest.
"I suppose Emilios was wrong. I'll be the first married of us after all."
Achilleas had lowered his cup when Iason did not sit, brow crease in what was a growing concern that it was some serious news his cousin brought with him.
Extending his hand to accept the missive, the Mikaelidas heir put the wine down,smoothed the parchment with his fingers, a frown settled now as he looked down to read the script.
He was barely a couple of lines in when Iason begin to speak, and Achilleas looked between the paper and his cousin, his expression shifting along with his comprehension of what the other man was telling him.
The furrow between his brows smoothed out to be replaced by a flicker of surprise and then a smile, one that Achilleas modified as he caught sight of a less certain set to Iason’s features..
“Engaged? To a princess nonetheless! Are you not happy Iason? It is a good match?”
Rising to clap the younger man on the shoulder, Achilleas held the letter in his other hand, shook it out and read it in full. It was true enough, the words all set out before him, and for a moment Achilleas glanced away, scowling at the wall as he tried to figure out if he knew this Persephone. He could not summon a face to mind, and gave up to return his focus to his younger cousin.
“It is Stephanos whose expression I long to see the most. I am sure this Princess Persephone will have been on his list, and yet look who has ended up with a Princess?!’
And then as the truth of it settled, some of Achilleas’ celebratory attitude fell away and he frowned at the letter. “Two days is so soon though. What is the great hurry? Are we not to give you a proper send off? How long will you be gone?”
He realised he had asked a handful of questions and not given his cousin chance to answer, so Achilleas set the letter down and lifted instead his wine, finally taking a sip as he tried to decide if he was more excited for Iason or perturbed at the abrupt nature of this change.
Achilleas was more a subscriber to the slow and steady adapting to circumstances. He was a planner, liked to give himself time to consider all eventualities and to have some idea how he would address each one. He thought he and his cousin were similar in that way but perhaps he was wrong?
“Did you know this was coming?” He asked,eyeing Iason steadily. “ It must have been in discussion for a while, surely?”
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Achilleas had lowered his cup when Iason did not sit, brow crease in what was a growing concern that it was some serious news his cousin brought with him.
Extending his hand to accept the missive, the Mikaelidas heir put the wine down,smoothed the parchment with his fingers, a frown settled now as he looked down to read the script.
He was barely a couple of lines in when Iason begin to speak, and Achilleas looked between the paper and his cousin, his expression shifting along with his comprehension of what the other man was telling him.
The furrow between his brows smoothed out to be replaced by a flicker of surprise and then a smile, one that Achilleas modified as he caught sight of a less certain set to Iason’s features..
“Engaged? To a princess nonetheless! Are you not happy Iason? It is a good match?”
Rising to clap the younger man on the shoulder, Achilleas held the letter in his other hand, shook it out and read it in full. It was true enough, the words all set out before him, and for a moment Achilleas glanced away, scowling at the wall as he tried to figure out if he knew this Persephone. He could not summon a face to mind, and gave up to return his focus to his younger cousin.
“It is Stephanos whose expression I long to see the most. I am sure this Princess Persephone will have been on his list, and yet look who has ended up with a Princess?!’
And then as the truth of it settled, some of Achilleas’ celebratory attitude fell away and he frowned at the letter. “Two days is so soon though. What is the great hurry? Are we not to give you a proper send off? How long will you be gone?”
He realised he had asked a handful of questions and not given his cousin chance to answer, so Achilleas set the letter down and lifted instead his wine, finally taking a sip as he tried to decide if he was more excited for Iason or perturbed at the abrupt nature of this change.
Achilleas was more a subscriber to the slow and steady adapting to circumstances. He was a planner, liked to give himself time to consider all eventualities and to have some idea how he would address each one. He thought he and his cousin were similar in that way but perhaps he was wrong?
“Did you know this was coming?” He asked,eyeing Iason steadily. “ It must have been in discussion for a while, surely?”
Achilleas had lowered his cup when Iason did not sit, brow crease in what was a growing concern that it was some serious news his cousin brought with him.
Extending his hand to accept the missive, the Mikaelidas heir put the wine down,smoothed the parchment with his fingers, a frown settled now as he looked down to read the script.
He was barely a couple of lines in when Iason begin to speak, and Achilleas looked between the paper and his cousin, his expression shifting along with his comprehension of what the other man was telling him.
The furrow between his brows smoothed out to be replaced by a flicker of surprise and then a smile, one that Achilleas modified as he caught sight of a less certain set to Iason’s features..
“Engaged? To a princess nonetheless! Are you not happy Iason? It is a good match?”
Rising to clap the younger man on the shoulder, Achilleas held the letter in his other hand, shook it out and read it in full. It was true enough, the words all set out before him, and for a moment Achilleas glanced away, scowling at the wall as he tried to figure out if he knew this Persephone. He could not summon a face to mind, and gave up to return his focus to his younger cousin.
“It is Stephanos whose expression I long to see the most. I am sure this Princess Persephone will have been on his list, and yet look who has ended up with a Princess?!’
And then as the truth of it settled, some of Achilleas’ celebratory attitude fell away and he frowned at the letter. “Two days is so soon though. What is the great hurry? Are we not to give you a proper send off? How long will you be gone?”
He realised he had asked a handful of questions and not given his cousin chance to answer, so Achilleas set the letter down and lifted instead his wine, finally taking a sip as he tried to decide if he was more excited for Iason or perturbed at the abrupt nature of this change.
Achilleas was more a subscriber to the slow and steady adapting to circumstances. He was a planner, liked to give himself time to consider all eventualities and to have some idea how he would address each one. He thought he and his cousin were similar in that way but perhaps he was wrong?
“Did you know this was coming?” He asked,eyeing Iason steadily. “ It must have been in discussion for a while, surely?”
The surprise on his cousin's face wasn't entirely unexpected. After all, he'd spent most of his adult life actively avoiding the women that had been thrown his way with the exception of those who might have been acceptable matches and noble women, and those had rarely found him attractive enough to keep as more than a friend. But was he happy? He wasn't entirely sure. If things went well, then he would stay in Athenia indefinitely with his fiancee, at least through the wedding, and perhaps longer seeing as she was the eldest child of the reigning monarch. It would mean leaving his family and friends and everything he knew behind for the foreseeable future, and he would be lying if he said he wasn't apprehensive.
"I am, it's just, I don't know. I suppose it doesn't feel real. As if Stephanos and Emilios just created a very elaborate prank to pull on me."
He gave an embarrassed chuckle as Achilleas clapped him on the shoulder, giving another shrug to brush off any praise that could have landed. It wasn't anything he had done, aside from being born to the Dimitrou name. That was what the Athenians wanted more than anything, a connection to the oldest house in Greece. "I expect if it is real Stephanos would wish a trade. I heard rumor he was married to Olympia of Leventi in town, though it seems an odd pairing now he's king." Not that he would judge, if there was love there and nothing standing in the way. In any case, rumors were nothing until confirmed.
Iason nodded again as his cousin asked if he'd known it was coming. The initial offer had been sent out on a whim, after consulting his father to see if it would be something useful he could try to do for the family. Bringing the wealth of Xanthos and the Dimitrou name together could be good for them both, and so when Gavriil had agreed Iason had penned the letter in his own hand. He hadn't expected such a response, and certainly not so enthusiastic a response as to ask him to leave Taengea right away to attend to the princess.
"We had sent an inquiry, I figured if I wasn't going to be able to marry for love I might as well do something worthwhile for the family. And they responded, they asked me to be on the earliest ship out. I guess there's an event that would be very appropriate to present us as a couple coming up if things go well." And there was no guarantee of that. He could only hope he succeeded for his family's sake, otherwise what reason would he ever have to leave them.
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The surprise on his cousin's face wasn't entirely unexpected. After all, he'd spent most of his adult life actively avoiding the women that had been thrown his way with the exception of those who might have been acceptable matches and noble women, and those had rarely found him attractive enough to keep as more than a friend. But was he happy? He wasn't entirely sure. If things went well, then he would stay in Athenia indefinitely with his fiancee, at least through the wedding, and perhaps longer seeing as she was the eldest child of the reigning monarch. It would mean leaving his family and friends and everything he knew behind for the foreseeable future, and he would be lying if he said he wasn't apprehensive.
"I am, it's just, I don't know. I suppose it doesn't feel real. As if Stephanos and Emilios just created a very elaborate prank to pull on me."
He gave an embarrassed chuckle as Achilleas clapped him on the shoulder, giving another shrug to brush off any praise that could have landed. It wasn't anything he had done, aside from being born to the Dimitrou name. That was what the Athenians wanted more than anything, a connection to the oldest house in Greece. "I expect if it is real Stephanos would wish a trade. I heard rumor he was married to Olympia of Leventi in town, though it seems an odd pairing now he's king." Not that he would judge, if there was love there and nothing standing in the way. In any case, rumors were nothing until confirmed.
Iason nodded again as his cousin asked if he'd known it was coming. The initial offer had been sent out on a whim, after consulting his father to see if it would be something useful he could try to do for the family. Bringing the wealth of Xanthos and the Dimitrou name together could be good for them both, and so when Gavriil had agreed Iason had penned the letter in his own hand. He hadn't expected such a response, and certainly not so enthusiastic a response as to ask him to leave Taengea right away to attend to the princess.
"We had sent an inquiry, I figured if I wasn't going to be able to marry for love I might as well do something worthwhile for the family. And they responded, they asked me to be on the earliest ship out. I guess there's an event that would be very appropriate to present us as a couple coming up if things go well." And there was no guarantee of that. He could only hope he succeeded for his family's sake, otherwise what reason would he ever have to leave them.
The surprise on his cousin's face wasn't entirely unexpected. After all, he'd spent most of his adult life actively avoiding the women that had been thrown his way with the exception of those who might have been acceptable matches and noble women, and those had rarely found him attractive enough to keep as more than a friend. But was he happy? He wasn't entirely sure. If things went well, then he would stay in Athenia indefinitely with his fiancee, at least through the wedding, and perhaps longer seeing as she was the eldest child of the reigning monarch. It would mean leaving his family and friends and everything he knew behind for the foreseeable future, and he would be lying if he said he wasn't apprehensive.
"I am, it's just, I don't know. I suppose it doesn't feel real. As if Stephanos and Emilios just created a very elaborate prank to pull on me."
He gave an embarrassed chuckle as Achilleas clapped him on the shoulder, giving another shrug to brush off any praise that could have landed. It wasn't anything he had done, aside from being born to the Dimitrou name. That was what the Athenians wanted more than anything, a connection to the oldest house in Greece. "I expect if it is real Stephanos would wish a trade. I heard rumor he was married to Olympia of Leventi in town, though it seems an odd pairing now he's king." Not that he would judge, if there was love there and nothing standing in the way. In any case, rumors were nothing until confirmed.
Iason nodded again as his cousin asked if he'd known it was coming. The initial offer had been sent out on a whim, after consulting his father to see if it would be something useful he could try to do for the family. Bringing the wealth of Xanthos and the Dimitrou name together could be good for them both, and so when Gavriil had agreed Iason had penned the letter in his own hand. He hadn't expected such a response, and certainly not so enthusiastic a response as to ask him to leave Taengea right away to attend to the princess.
"We had sent an inquiry, I figured if I wasn't going to be able to marry for love I might as well do something worthwhile for the family. And they responded, they asked me to be on the earliest ship out. I guess there's an event that would be very appropriate to present us as a couple coming up if things go well." And there was no guarantee of that. He could only hope he succeeded for his family's sake, otherwise what reason would he ever have to leave them.
Achilleas gave a slight huff of a laugh at mention of it seeming some elaborate prank, but he shook his head, handed the letter back to his friend. “But it is not. It is there a clear as day. Congratulations, Iason.”
His cousin’s claims toward happiness with the arrangement could have been more convincing though, and the Mikaelidas Lord could understand why. To leave everything he knew, to give up his barony and move away from friends and family for a marriage with a woman he had yet to meet. It was no small endeavour. And of all of his family, Iason seemed the one least inclined to adventure. Perhaps this would be a good thing, to push him outside of his comfort a little.
Whilst Achilleas himself could not claim to be any kind of social animal like his brother or cousin Steph, he also tended to get drawn into their hijinks more often than Iason. Never mind that his natural tendency towards introversion had been ridden roughshod over by his father all of his life. The Dimitrou Lord was the most quiet and reserved of all his friends, and Achilleas loved him for it.
There was something about the softly spoken man that allowed Achilleas to just switch off his own public face for a little while and not be concerned that Iason would think of less of him for it. And there was no pressure to drink or whore or do any of the things that quite frankly made him feel a little stressed upon occasion when he was with Stephanos. He would miss him, Achilleas realised.
He nodded as Iason explained how such a thing had come to be. Marrying for love was not a luxury afforded to any in their positions. It was a thing Achilleas had resolved himself to long ago, and only recently had his fortunes shifted to be something other than a union purely for political gain. He glanced at his Dimitrou cousin, thought how funny it was that such a thing should come to be for both of them at the same time. His own bethrothal had yet to be formally announced even, but with Iason seemingly set to leave in two days. Achilleas wanted to share it with him.
“I am glad you came, Iason. Not only to hear your good news but also because I have some of my own.” There was an animation to Achilleas’ features not often seen, for a man who usually tried to measure his responses. But he could hardly prevent the smile that split his face as he went on. He’d been sweet on Theodora for longer than he cared to admit, and honestly had expected his suggestion to his father to be summarily dismissed when the man had summoned him to discuss his being wed. He still could hardly believe it.
“Not dissimilar to your own tidings, I too am to be engaged. To Lady Theodora of Leventi” Achilleas said. “It is not common knowledge yet, so please don’t speak of it, but if you are to Athenia in two days there may not have been another chance to share this with you”
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Achilleas gave a slight huff of a laugh at mention of it seeming some elaborate prank, but he shook his head, handed the letter back to his friend. “But it is not. It is there a clear as day. Congratulations, Iason.”
His cousin’s claims toward happiness with the arrangement could have been more convincing though, and the Mikaelidas Lord could understand why. To leave everything he knew, to give up his barony and move away from friends and family for a marriage with a woman he had yet to meet. It was no small endeavour. And of all of his family, Iason seemed the one least inclined to adventure. Perhaps this would be a good thing, to push him outside of his comfort a little.
Whilst Achilleas himself could not claim to be any kind of social animal like his brother or cousin Steph, he also tended to get drawn into their hijinks more often than Iason. Never mind that his natural tendency towards introversion had been ridden roughshod over by his father all of his life. The Dimitrou Lord was the most quiet and reserved of all his friends, and Achilleas loved him for it.
There was something about the softly spoken man that allowed Achilleas to just switch off his own public face for a little while and not be concerned that Iason would think of less of him for it. And there was no pressure to drink or whore or do any of the things that quite frankly made him feel a little stressed upon occasion when he was with Stephanos. He would miss him, Achilleas realised.
He nodded as Iason explained how such a thing had come to be. Marrying for love was not a luxury afforded to any in their positions. It was a thing Achilleas had resolved himself to long ago, and only recently had his fortunes shifted to be something other than a union purely for political gain. He glanced at his Dimitrou cousin, thought how funny it was that such a thing should come to be for both of them at the same time. His own bethrothal had yet to be formally announced even, but with Iason seemingly set to leave in two days. Achilleas wanted to share it with him.
“I am glad you came, Iason. Not only to hear your good news but also because I have some of my own.” There was an animation to Achilleas’ features not often seen, for a man who usually tried to measure his responses. But he could hardly prevent the smile that split his face as he went on. He’d been sweet on Theodora for longer than he cared to admit, and honestly had expected his suggestion to his father to be summarily dismissed when the man had summoned him to discuss his being wed. He still could hardly believe it.
“Not dissimilar to your own tidings, I too am to be engaged. To Lady Theodora of Leventi” Achilleas said. “It is not common knowledge yet, so please don’t speak of it, but if you are to Athenia in two days there may not have been another chance to share this with you”
Achilleas gave a slight huff of a laugh at mention of it seeming some elaborate prank, but he shook his head, handed the letter back to his friend. “But it is not. It is there a clear as day. Congratulations, Iason.”
His cousin’s claims toward happiness with the arrangement could have been more convincing though, and the Mikaelidas Lord could understand why. To leave everything he knew, to give up his barony and move away from friends and family for a marriage with a woman he had yet to meet. It was no small endeavour. And of all of his family, Iason seemed the one least inclined to adventure. Perhaps this would be a good thing, to push him outside of his comfort a little.
Whilst Achilleas himself could not claim to be any kind of social animal like his brother or cousin Steph, he also tended to get drawn into their hijinks more often than Iason. Never mind that his natural tendency towards introversion had been ridden roughshod over by his father all of his life. The Dimitrou Lord was the most quiet and reserved of all his friends, and Achilleas loved him for it.
There was something about the softly spoken man that allowed Achilleas to just switch off his own public face for a little while and not be concerned that Iason would think of less of him for it. And there was no pressure to drink or whore or do any of the things that quite frankly made him feel a little stressed upon occasion when he was with Stephanos. He would miss him, Achilleas realised.
He nodded as Iason explained how such a thing had come to be. Marrying for love was not a luxury afforded to any in their positions. It was a thing Achilleas had resolved himself to long ago, and only recently had his fortunes shifted to be something other than a union purely for political gain. He glanced at his Dimitrou cousin, thought how funny it was that such a thing should come to be for both of them at the same time. His own bethrothal had yet to be formally announced even, but with Iason seemingly set to leave in two days. Achilleas wanted to share it with him.
“I am glad you came, Iason. Not only to hear your good news but also because I have some of my own.” There was an animation to Achilleas’ features not often seen, for a man who usually tried to measure his responses. But he could hardly prevent the smile that split his face as he went on. He’d been sweet on Theodora for longer than he cared to admit, and honestly had expected his suggestion to his father to be summarily dismissed when the man had summoned him to discuss his being wed. He still could hardly believe it.
“Not dissimilar to your own tidings, I too am to be engaged. To Lady Theodora of Leventi” Achilleas said. “It is not common knowledge yet, so please don’t speak of it, but if you are to Athenia in two days there may not have been another chance to share this with you”
"Thank you, Achilleas. I can only hope I do us all proud."
Iason gave a smile that faded, hiding it in another gulp of wine before allowing too much of his nerves to show. If he could reveal them to anyone it was his cousin, after giving his promises to his father that he was fine, that there was nothing to be concerned over, and he was of course excited and confident to be sailing across the ocean to marry a woman he'd never met. Gavriil had no doubt seen right through him, but at least his father had not seen fit to question him, not when the money brought in by the match would be enough to see him comfortably through his old age.
He set aside his glass as his cousin shared the news of his own, smiling broadly and genuinely as he reached over to clap him on the shoulder. It had been a long time coming, though it was perhaps not obvious to everyone, he could see the look in his cousin's eye whenever the lady was near, and if anyone deserved a match for affection it was Achilleas. He had been afraid that his uncle Irakles would be opposed to such a thing, but given the Leventi's status and the shift in the ruling of the company, it would be a good match indeed.
"My congratulations to you! That is a fine match for you indeed, I hope you will have a lifetime of happiness together." The baron gave a nod as he was informed that the knowledge was not yet public, no doubt with the dowries to be worked out and the proper time to announce such things would be done with the finesse required of the royal family. Still, he was happy to know that even as he left his closest friend and relative behind, that he would be well loved and cared for.
"I shall hope to be able to return for the wedding, but I cannot make that promise until I know what we will be doing. There is talk of her replacing her father on the throne, but I selfishly hope she will agree to come home to Taengea with me." It was a good deal to ask of a princess, especially one with ambitions of succession, but he hoped that they would foster a relationship of respect and trust if nothing else, and that he would not be lost to his family forever.
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"Thank you, Achilleas. I can only hope I do us all proud."
Iason gave a smile that faded, hiding it in another gulp of wine before allowing too much of his nerves to show. If he could reveal them to anyone it was his cousin, after giving his promises to his father that he was fine, that there was nothing to be concerned over, and he was of course excited and confident to be sailing across the ocean to marry a woman he'd never met. Gavriil had no doubt seen right through him, but at least his father had not seen fit to question him, not when the money brought in by the match would be enough to see him comfortably through his old age.
He set aside his glass as his cousin shared the news of his own, smiling broadly and genuinely as he reached over to clap him on the shoulder. It had been a long time coming, though it was perhaps not obvious to everyone, he could see the look in his cousin's eye whenever the lady was near, and if anyone deserved a match for affection it was Achilleas. He had been afraid that his uncle Irakles would be opposed to such a thing, but given the Leventi's status and the shift in the ruling of the company, it would be a good match indeed.
"My congratulations to you! That is a fine match for you indeed, I hope you will have a lifetime of happiness together." The baron gave a nod as he was informed that the knowledge was not yet public, no doubt with the dowries to be worked out and the proper time to announce such things would be done with the finesse required of the royal family. Still, he was happy to know that even as he left his closest friend and relative behind, that he would be well loved and cared for.
"I shall hope to be able to return for the wedding, but I cannot make that promise until I know what we will be doing. There is talk of her replacing her father on the throne, but I selfishly hope she will agree to come home to Taengea with me." It was a good deal to ask of a princess, especially one with ambitions of succession, but he hoped that they would foster a relationship of respect and trust if nothing else, and that he would not be lost to his family forever.
"Thank you, Achilleas. I can only hope I do us all proud."
Iason gave a smile that faded, hiding it in another gulp of wine before allowing too much of his nerves to show. If he could reveal them to anyone it was his cousin, after giving his promises to his father that he was fine, that there was nothing to be concerned over, and he was of course excited and confident to be sailing across the ocean to marry a woman he'd never met. Gavriil had no doubt seen right through him, but at least his father had not seen fit to question him, not when the money brought in by the match would be enough to see him comfortably through his old age.
He set aside his glass as his cousin shared the news of his own, smiling broadly and genuinely as he reached over to clap him on the shoulder. It had been a long time coming, though it was perhaps not obvious to everyone, he could see the look in his cousin's eye whenever the lady was near, and if anyone deserved a match for affection it was Achilleas. He had been afraid that his uncle Irakles would be opposed to such a thing, but given the Leventi's status and the shift in the ruling of the company, it would be a good match indeed.
"My congratulations to you! That is a fine match for you indeed, I hope you will have a lifetime of happiness together." The baron gave a nod as he was informed that the knowledge was not yet public, no doubt with the dowries to be worked out and the proper time to announce such things would be done with the finesse required of the royal family. Still, he was happy to know that even as he left his closest friend and relative behind, that he would be well loved and cared for.
"I shall hope to be able to return for the wedding, but I cannot make that promise until I know what we will be doing. There is talk of her replacing her father on the throne, but I selfishly hope she will agree to come home to Taengea with me." It was a good deal to ask of a princess, especially one with ambitions of succession, but he hoped that they would foster a relationship of respect and trust if nothing else, and that he would not be lost to his family forever.
“I cannot imagine you ever doing anything but” Achilleas answered, resisting the urge to shake his head at the humility of his cousin. Iason was a man who placed as much import on doing his duty as Achilleas himself did, it made it easy for them to see eye to eye, even if their paths had not followed the exact same course over the years. He hoped that his cousin would find some measure of happiness with his intended, especially if the union was to tear him away from his family and friends.
“Tell me of this Princess Persephone then. Is she fair? Have you written to her directly?” He supposed there was some merit in getting to know one another in words, if not in person. And for a moment, Achilleas stared at Iason, considering asking the question that played upon the edge of his tongue but not sure if he should. In the end, curiosity won out, and he ventured it anyway.
“Have you still not lain with a woman?” Because that would surely be a concern to be added to the few his cousin must be nurturing about the idea of being married. Iason had been steadfast in refusing the women that Stephanos tried to push on him over the years, and though he didn’t entirely understand the compulsion to remain chaste, he could admire his cousin’s fortitude in it.
Sharing news of his own betrothal was something of a relief. Until it was announced formally, then Achilleas had been holding his tongue, but it was nice to be able to talk of it with Iason. Though the Mikaelidas Lord would be unlikely to admit it, Theodora of Leventi had captured and held his attention for years. It was only his own reluctance to do anything that might cause a scandal that had stopped him acting upon his wants any more than he had. Beautiful though she may be, Leventi girls were not the sort that you risked frivolous relations with.
Now though, Achilleas could not help but think everything was falling into place, and he shot his cousin a bashful sort of smile under the man’s congratulations. “I hope you can return. You know it shall be some over the top thing, you would be a welcome point of sanity amongst it, cousin.”
But Achilleas knew that the likelihood of Iason having much control over such a thing was slim. Close enough to his cousins in the palati to know that the wheels of royalty turned almost of their own accord. He didn’t contradict his cousin’s hope, but it seemed a little of a far fetched hope that a Princess set to inherit the throne would leave her own kingdom.
“Perhaps she will” he said neutrally, whilst suddenly feeling a sense of loss already that his cousin would be gone away from their own lands. “How do your family take the news? Are they excited for you?” The Dimitrou House had always struck him as being particularly close-knit. Indeed he had been somewhat envious of the bond they seemed to share: he could hardly pretend that such relationships existed in his own family. Iason’s lot was different though, and he thought it would only make it harder for his friend to leave.
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“I cannot imagine you ever doing anything but” Achilleas answered, resisting the urge to shake his head at the humility of his cousin. Iason was a man who placed as much import on doing his duty as Achilleas himself did, it made it easy for them to see eye to eye, even if their paths had not followed the exact same course over the years. He hoped that his cousin would find some measure of happiness with his intended, especially if the union was to tear him away from his family and friends.
“Tell me of this Princess Persephone then. Is she fair? Have you written to her directly?” He supposed there was some merit in getting to know one another in words, if not in person. And for a moment, Achilleas stared at Iason, considering asking the question that played upon the edge of his tongue but not sure if he should. In the end, curiosity won out, and he ventured it anyway.
“Have you still not lain with a woman?” Because that would surely be a concern to be added to the few his cousin must be nurturing about the idea of being married. Iason had been steadfast in refusing the women that Stephanos tried to push on him over the years, and though he didn’t entirely understand the compulsion to remain chaste, he could admire his cousin’s fortitude in it.
Sharing news of his own betrothal was something of a relief. Until it was announced formally, then Achilleas had been holding his tongue, but it was nice to be able to talk of it with Iason. Though the Mikaelidas Lord would be unlikely to admit it, Theodora of Leventi had captured and held his attention for years. It was only his own reluctance to do anything that might cause a scandal that had stopped him acting upon his wants any more than he had. Beautiful though she may be, Leventi girls were not the sort that you risked frivolous relations with.
Now though, Achilleas could not help but think everything was falling into place, and he shot his cousin a bashful sort of smile under the man’s congratulations. “I hope you can return. You know it shall be some over the top thing, you would be a welcome point of sanity amongst it, cousin.”
But Achilleas knew that the likelihood of Iason having much control over such a thing was slim. Close enough to his cousins in the palati to know that the wheels of royalty turned almost of their own accord. He didn’t contradict his cousin’s hope, but it seemed a little of a far fetched hope that a Princess set to inherit the throne would leave her own kingdom.
“Perhaps she will” he said neutrally, whilst suddenly feeling a sense of loss already that his cousin would be gone away from their own lands. “How do your family take the news? Are they excited for you?” The Dimitrou House had always struck him as being particularly close-knit. Indeed he had been somewhat envious of the bond they seemed to share: he could hardly pretend that such relationships existed in his own family. Iason’s lot was different though, and he thought it would only make it harder for his friend to leave.
“I cannot imagine you ever doing anything but” Achilleas answered, resisting the urge to shake his head at the humility of his cousin. Iason was a man who placed as much import on doing his duty as Achilleas himself did, it made it easy for them to see eye to eye, even if their paths had not followed the exact same course over the years. He hoped that his cousin would find some measure of happiness with his intended, especially if the union was to tear him away from his family and friends.
“Tell me of this Princess Persephone then. Is she fair? Have you written to her directly?” He supposed there was some merit in getting to know one another in words, if not in person. And for a moment, Achilleas stared at Iason, considering asking the question that played upon the edge of his tongue but not sure if he should. In the end, curiosity won out, and he ventured it anyway.
“Have you still not lain with a woman?” Because that would surely be a concern to be added to the few his cousin must be nurturing about the idea of being married. Iason had been steadfast in refusing the women that Stephanos tried to push on him over the years, and though he didn’t entirely understand the compulsion to remain chaste, he could admire his cousin’s fortitude in it.
Sharing news of his own betrothal was something of a relief. Until it was announced formally, then Achilleas had been holding his tongue, but it was nice to be able to talk of it with Iason. Though the Mikaelidas Lord would be unlikely to admit it, Theodora of Leventi had captured and held his attention for years. It was only his own reluctance to do anything that might cause a scandal that had stopped him acting upon his wants any more than he had. Beautiful though she may be, Leventi girls were not the sort that you risked frivolous relations with.
Now though, Achilleas could not help but think everything was falling into place, and he shot his cousin a bashful sort of smile under the man’s congratulations. “I hope you can return. You know it shall be some over the top thing, you would be a welcome point of sanity amongst it, cousin.”
But Achilleas knew that the likelihood of Iason having much control over such a thing was slim. Close enough to his cousins in the palati to know that the wheels of royalty turned almost of their own accord. He didn’t contradict his cousin’s hope, but it seemed a little of a far fetched hope that a Princess set to inherit the throne would leave her own kingdom.
“Perhaps she will” he said neutrally, whilst suddenly feeling a sense of loss already that his cousin would be gone away from their own lands. “How do your family take the news? Are they excited for you?” The Dimitrou House had always struck him as being particularly close-knit. Indeed he had been somewhat envious of the bond they seemed to share: he could hardly pretend that such relationships existed in his own family. Iason’s lot was different though, and he thought it would only make it harder for his friend to leave.
A heat found its way to his cheeks as Achilleas gave his compliments, and then went straight into the topic that Iason had the most fear about. He had made it a point to ask his father about how best to woo a woman, how to go about the mechanical things that he supposed most men his age already knew about. Achilleas he knew did not hold the same virtue as he, but at least he seemed to be more selective in his partners than the other cousins. There were questions still unanswered at the tip of his tongue but instead he just shook his head, sipping on his wine to try to give himself some sort of fortification.
"I still haven't, no. Just, no one really seemed...right." Iason cringed at his own words, but it was much more difficult to explain to his cousin that no one had ever really expressed any interest in him. Sure plenty of women thought him handsome, but none ever expressly had any desire in sharing his bed. Only those he would have to pay and while he knew there was no real shame in that for someone like him, it felt wrong. He didn't want to just have sex for the release of it, foolish as he was he had hoped it might mean something. And he supposed it was a good example for his sisters as well. If they were meant to remain pure until marriage it was the least he could do to be the same.
"I don't know if she's fair. Or anything about her, really. I've only been writing with the king's staff I suppose. I know nothing about the woman I'm supposed to be marrying." He'd known this, of course, but saying it out loud was somehow so much worse than he had allowed himself to think. "Father was, father. I don't know if they're happy about it or just, feel the same as me. I might as well do something to help the family."
Running a hand through his hair in a moment of stress, he stared at the floor for a moment before shaking it off, turning to smile instead at the idea of Achilleas being dragged through a frivolous wedding. He would do his best to return, even if it was without his new bride. There were some things he refused to miss, like the wedding of his favorite cousin.
"It'll be a Leventi affair, that's for sure."
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A heat found its way to his cheeks as Achilleas gave his compliments, and then went straight into the topic that Iason had the most fear about. He had made it a point to ask his father about how best to woo a woman, how to go about the mechanical things that he supposed most men his age already knew about. Achilleas he knew did not hold the same virtue as he, but at least he seemed to be more selective in his partners than the other cousins. There were questions still unanswered at the tip of his tongue but instead he just shook his head, sipping on his wine to try to give himself some sort of fortification.
"I still haven't, no. Just, no one really seemed...right." Iason cringed at his own words, but it was much more difficult to explain to his cousin that no one had ever really expressed any interest in him. Sure plenty of women thought him handsome, but none ever expressly had any desire in sharing his bed. Only those he would have to pay and while he knew there was no real shame in that for someone like him, it felt wrong. He didn't want to just have sex for the release of it, foolish as he was he had hoped it might mean something. And he supposed it was a good example for his sisters as well. If they were meant to remain pure until marriage it was the least he could do to be the same.
"I don't know if she's fair. Or anything about her, really. I've only been writing with the king's staff I suppose. I know nothing about the woman I'm supposed to be marrying." He'd known this, of course, but saying it out loud was somehow so much worse than he had allowed himself to think. "Father was, father. I don't know if they're happy about it or just, feel the same as me. I might as well do something to help the family."
Running a hand through his hair in a moment of stress, he stared at the floor for a moment before shaking it off, turning to smile instead at the idea of Achilleas being dragged through a frivolous wedding. He would do his best to return, even if it was without his new bride. There were some things he refused to miss, like the wedding of his favorite cousin.
"It'll be a Leventi affair, that's for sure."
A heat found its way to his cheeks as Achilleas gave his compliments, and then went straight into the topic that Iason had the most fear about. He had made it a point to ask his father about how best to woo a woman, how to go about the mechanical things that he supposed most men his age already knew about. Achilleas he knew did not hold the same virtue as he, but at least he seemed to be more selective in his partners than the other cousins. There were questions still unanswered at the tip of his tongue but instead he just shook his head, sipping on his wine to try to give himself some sort of fortification.
"I still haven't, no. Just, no one really seemed...right." Iason cringed at his own words, but it was much more difficult to explain to his cousin that no one had ever really expressed any interest in him. Sure plenty of women thought him handsome, but none ever expressly had any desire in sharing his bed. Only those he would have to pay and while he knew there was no real shame in that for someone like him, it felt wrong. He didn't want to just have sex for the release of it, foolish as he was he had hoped it might mean something. And he supposed it was a good example for his sisters as well. If they were meant to remain pure until marriage it was the least he could do to be the same.
"I don't know if she's fair. Or anything about her, really. I've only been writing with the king's staff I suppose. I know nothing about the woman I'm supposed to be marrying." He'd known this, of course, but saying it out loud was somehow so much worse than he had allowed himself to think. "Father was, father. I don't know if they're happy about it or just, feel the same as me. I might as well do something to help the family."
Running a hand through his hair in a moment of stress, he stared at the floor for a moment before shaking it off, turning to smile instead at the idea of Achilleas being dragged through a frivolous wedding. He would do his best to return, even if it was without his new bride. There were some things he refused to miss, like the wedding of his favorite cousin.
"It'll be a Leventi affair, that's for sure."
The answer to the rather unsubtle question Achilleas had ventured barely needed an answer beyond the sudden pinking of his cousin’s cheeks, and the Mikaelidas man deliberately ignored it, glanced away so he was not looking at Iason when the other man spoke. He wasn’t judging, far from it. In fact, he thought it said a great deal for Iason’s strength of character that he had not allowed himself to be bullied into such a rite of passage.
“Well, then I suppose you shall have someone right soon enough, cous. And I hope she appreciates how lucky she is”
He did not know, and would never have guessed the underscore as to why Iason remained chaste. He knew the man tended to forgo the court events that Achilleas and Emilios were expected to show their faces at, but still, the notion that there were not a thousand maids who would clamor for a bit of the Dimitrou Lord’s attention was laughable. Achilleas would have told him so, had Iason been more open with him. But as it was, he let the subject drop, not wanting to prolong the man’s unease.
He did look a little surprised that Iason had not actually been in communication with the Princess herself though, and felt another pang of relief that at least his own wedding was not such a leap into the unknown. An arranged marriage for political gain was one thing, but there was the small consideration of all the years afterward to contend with. Seeing his own Mother cast aside in favour of a mistress had all but convinced Achilleas he would not be party to such an arrangement, and so he was glad that he knew Theodora at least a little, and that they did have something of a rapport. Trying not to get caught up in his own concerns, he gave a nod as Iason fell silent again and tried to offer up some reassurance.
“I’m quite certain your father would not see you married off to some goat faced Athenian, Iason. And I’m sure I heard Stephanos mention Persephone, and he has mostly good taste, so don’t worry. And you are doing right by your House. It is a good thing.”
He could not be quite so enamored with the idea of whatever circus his own wedding might turn into, and it showed upon his face, some mixture between dismay and dread. “You are not wrong, I’m sure. But lets just...not think about it for now. Here, to bidding farewell to bachelorhood” Lifting his cup to knock gently against that of his kinsman, Achilleas made a small toast to their shared news. “May Aphrodite bless us both”
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The answer to the rather unsubtle question Achilleas had ventured barely needed an answer beyond the sudden pinking of his cousin’s cheeks, and the Mikaelidas man deliberately ignored it, glanced away so he was not looking at Iason when the other man spoke. He wasn’t judging, far from it. In fact, he thought it said a great deal for Iason’s strength of character that he had not allowed himself to be bullied into such a rite of passage.
“Well, then I suppose you shall have someone right soon enough, cous. And I hope she appreciates how lucky she is”
He did not know, and would never have guessed the underscore as to why Iason remained chaste. He knew the man tended to forgo the court events that Achilleas and Emilios were expected to show their faces at, but still, the notion that there were not a thousand maids who would clamor for a bit of the Dimitrou Lord’s attention was laughable. Achilleas would have told him so, had Iason been more open with him. But as it was, he let the subject drop, not wanting to prolong the man’s unease.
He did look a little surprised that Iason had not actually been in communication with the Princess herself though, and felt another pang of relief that at least his own wedding was not such a leap into the unknown. An arranged marriage for political gain was one thing, but there was the small consideration of all the years afterward to contend with. Seeing his own Mother cast aside in favour of a mistress had all but convinced Achilleas he would not be party to such an arrangement, and so he was glad that he knew Theodora at least a little, and that they did have something of a rapport. Trying not to get caught up in his own concerns, he gave a nod as Iason fell silent again and tried to offer up some reassurance.
“I’m quite certain your father would not see you married off to some goat faced Athenian, Iason. And I’m sure I heard Stephanos mention Persephone, and he has mostly good taste, so don’t worry. And you are doing right by your House. It is a good thing.”
He could not be quite so enamored with the idea of whatever circus his own wedding might turn into, and it showed upon his face, some mixture between dismay and dread. “You are not wrong, I’m sure. But lets just...not think about it for now. Here, to bidding farewell to bachelorhood” Lifting his cup to knock gently against that of his kinsman, Achilleas made a small toast to their shared news. “May Aphrodite bless us both”
The answer to the rather unsubtle question Achilleas had ventured barely needed an answer beyond the sudden pinking of his cousin’s cheeks, and the Mikaelidas man deliberately ignored it, glanced away so he was not looking at Iason when the other man spoke. He wasn’t judging, far from it. In fact, he thought it said a great deal for Iason’s strength of character that he had not allowed himself to be bullied into such a rite of passage.
“Well, then I suppose you shall have someone right soon enough, cous. And I hope she appreciates how lucky she is”
He did not know, and would never have guessed the underscore as to why Iason remained chaste. He knew the man tended to forgo the court events that Achilleas and Emilios were expected to show their faces at, but still, the notion that there were not a thousand maids who would clamor for a bit of the Dimitrou Lord’s attention was laughable. Achilleas would have told him so, had Iason been more open with him. But as it was, he let the subject drop, not wanting to prolong the man’s unease.
He did look a little surprised that Iason had not actually been in communication with the Princess herself though, and felt another pang of relief that at least his own wedding was not such a leap into the unknown. An arranged marriage for political gain was one thing, but there was the small consideration of all the years afterward to contend with. Seeing his own Mother cast aside in favour of a mistress had all but convinced Achilleas he would not be party to such an arrangement, and so he was glad that he knew Theodora at least a little, and that they did have something of a rapport. Trying not to get caught up in his own concerns, he gave a nod as Iason fell silent again and tried to offer up some reassurance.
“I’m quite certain your father would not see you married off to some goat faced Athenian, Iason. And I’m sure I heard Stephanos mention Persephone, and he has mostly good taste, so don’t worry. And you are doing right by your House. It is a good thing.”
He could not be quite so enamored with the idea of whatever circus his own wedding might turn into, and it showed upon his face, some mixture between dismay and dread. “You are not wrong, I’m sure. But lets just...not think about it for now. Here, to bidding farewell to bachelorhood” Lifting his cup to knock gently against that of his kinsman, Achilleas made a small toast to their shared news. “May Aphrodite bless us both”