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That question basically summed up the day for Marietta of Antonis. It was a calm morning. She had plans to meet Sofia to catch up, talk, gossip. The young woman woke early as she always did. She went through her typical morning routine which usually included taking a bath. Once finished, her handmaidens helped dry her before presenting the options of clothing they had selected. Among her handmaiden’s selections was a dark purple peplos with silver embroidery along the edges. It was a lovely choice, a deviation from Marietta's typical lighter, muted colors. Once on, she moved to her jewelry that Marietta held so dear to her heart. Jewelry was another form of artistry, one Marietta knew not how to replicate. Matching silver jewelry decorated her long, elegant neck and arms. Marietta’s hair was braided as it was daily, though this time she chose to decorate it with freshly dried flowers from her family’s garden. Marietta was ready to meet her friend.
But the plans Marietta and Sofia had quickly went awry just as they always do. Marietta likely would have spoken passionately about her latest ideas, forcing Sofia to look at endless number of sketches and paintings she had created. It would have been a lovely day with one of her longest, closest friends. Instead Marietta was convinced to ‘visit her cousin.’ Which would have been fine, Marietta had no problem with any of her extended family, had that been the real intentions. Instead the pair enjoyed the beauty of Illoclis with the distorted view that came after drinking a bottle of their finest wine. As day turned to night the two were now at a lake. The only ones around were their slaves and themselves. The night air was calm and quiet, with only a cool breeze gently caressing the young women. In Marietta’s hand was a near empty bottle of wine. Her face was redder, and she was swaying like the trees during this summer’s breeze. The lake shimmered at the pair, singing its siren’s song and beaconing the two towards it. The moon in all its beauty reflected on the water as if a looking glass. It was a visage that Marietta would dream to paint should this had been any other day in any other circumstance.
Marietta was drunk, that was for certain, but she was not drunk enough to consider Sofia of Marikas’ suggestion. Skinny dipping? What would happen should a commoner happen upon the pair? Sofia knew that bathing houses existed, not that she had ever been to one herself. But this was hardly bathing, and what if a scandal were to spread about the two should they be caught? The pain in Marietta’s head was already beginning to throb imagining the words her father may have… or her sisters who she so often lectured about manners and proper behavior.
Between Marietta’s closest friends, Sofia and Elias, it was Sofia that more often was the worse influence on Marietta. Elias and Marietta had a vice, namely gambling, in which she had no shame in helping Elias cheat. But with Sofia so often their activities came with shame, before, during and even after it was done.
“No, no, absolutely not.” Marietta put her foot down. “We have had enough fun this day, Sofia. We should consider retiring for the night.”
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“Must we do this?”
That question basically summed up the day for Marietta of Antonis. It was a calm morning. She had plans to meet Sofia to catch up, talk, gossip. The young woman woke early as she always did. She went through her typical morning routine which usually included taking a bath. Once finished, her handmaidens helped dry her before presenting the options of clothing they had selected. Among her handmaiden’s selections was a dark purple peplos with silver embroidery along the edges. It was a lovely choice, a deviation from Marietta's typical lighter, muted colors. Once on, she moved to her jewelry that Marietta held so dear to her heart. Jewelry was another form of artistry, one Marietta knew not how to replicate. Matching silver jewelry decorated her long, elegant neck and arms. Marietta’s hair was braided as it was daily, though this time she chose to decorate it with freshly dried flowers from her family’s garden. Marietta was ready to meet her friend.
But the plans Marietta and Sofia had quickly went awry just as they always do. Marietta likely would have spoken passionately about her latest ideas, forcing Sofia to look at endless number of sketches and paintings she had created. It would have been a lovely day with one of her longest, closest friends. Instead Marietta was convinced to ‘visit her cousin.’ Which would have been fine, Marietta had no problem with any of her extended family, had that been the real intentions. Instead the pair enjoyed the beauty of Illoclis with the distorted view that came after drinking a bottle of their finest wine. As day turned to night the two were now at a lake. The only ones around were their slaves and themselves. The night air was calm and quiet, with only a cool breeze gently caressing the young women. In Marietta’s hand was a near empty bottle of wine. Her face was redder, and she was swaying like the trees during this summer’s breeze. The lake shimmered at the pair, singing its siren’s song and beaconing the two towards it. The moon in all its beauty reflected on the water as if a looking glass. It was a visage that Marietta would dream to paint should this had been any other day in any other circumstance.
Marietta was drunk, that was for certain, but she was not drunk enough to consider Sofia of Marikas’ suggestion. Skinny dipping? What would happen should a commoner happen upon the pair? Sofia knew that bathing houses existed, not that she had ever been to one herself. But this was hardly bathing, and what if a scandal were to spread about the two should they be caught? The pain in Marietta’s head was already beginning to throb imagining the words her father may have… or her sisters who she so often lectured about manners and proper behavior.
Between Marietta’s closest friends, Sofia and Elias, it was Sofia that more often was the worse influence on Marietta. Elias and Marietta had a vice, namely gambling, in which she had no shame in helping Elias cheat. But with Sofia so often their activities came with shame, before, during and even after it was done.
“No, no, absolutely not.” Marietta put her foot down. “We have had enough fun this day, Sofia. We should consider retiring for the night.”
“Must we do this?”
That question basically summed up the day for Marietta of Antonis. It was a calm morning. She had plans to meet Sofia to catch up, talk, gossip. The young woman woke early as she always did. She went through her typical morning routine which usually included taking a bath. Once finished, her handmaidens helped dry her before presenting the options of clothing they had selected. Among her handmaiden’s selections was a dark purple peplos with silver embroidery along the edges. It was a lovely choice, a deviation from Marietta's typical lighter, muted colors. Once on, she moved to her jewelry that Marietta held so dear to her heart. Jewelry was another form of artistry, one Marietta knew not how to replicate. Matching silver jewelry decorated her long, elegant neck and arms. Marietta’s hair was braided as it was daily, though this time she chose to decorate it with freshly dried flowers from her family’s garden. Marietta was ready to meet her friend.
But the plans Marietta and Sofia had quickly went awry just as they always do. Marietta likely would have spoken passionately about her latest ideas, forcing Sofia to look at endless number of sketches and paintings she had created. It would have been a lovely day with one of her longest, closest friends. Instead Marietta was convinced to ‘visit her cousin.’ Which would have been fine, Marietta had no problem with any of her extended family, had that been the real intentions. Instead the pair enjoyed the beauty of Illoclis with the distorted view that came after drinking a bottle of their finest wine. As day turned to night the two were now at a lake. The only ones around were their slaves and themselves. The night air was calm and quiet, with only a cool breeze gently caressing the young women. In Marietta’s hand was a near empty bottle of wine. Her face was redder, and she was swaying like the trees during this summer’s breeze. The lake shimmered at the pair, singing its siren’s song and beaconing the two towards it. The moon in all its beauty reflected on the water as if a looking glass. It was a visage that Marietta would dream to paint should this had been any other day in any other circumstance.
Marietta was drunk, that was for certain, but she was not drunk enough to consider Sofia of Marikas’ suggestion. Skinny dipping? What would happen should a commoner happen upon the pair? Sofia knew that bathing houses existed, not that she had ever been to one herself. But this was hardly bathing, and what if a scandal were to spread about the two should they be caught? The pain in Marietta’s head was already beginning to throb imagining the words her father may have… or her sisters who she so often lectured about manners and proper behavior.
Between Marietta’s closest friends, Sofia and Elias, it was Sofia that more often was the worse influence on Marietta. Elias and Marietta had a vice, namely gambling, in which she had no shame in helping Elias cheat. But with Sofia so often their activities came with shame, before, during and even after it was done.
“No, no, absolutely not.” Marietta put her foot down. “We have had enough fun this day, Sofia. We should consider retiring for the night.”
Sofia of Marikas had woken up that morning with an itch in her heart, an intense desire to do something with her day. It was far too easy to lose track of time, to let the days flow by in an endless cycle of embroidery, garden walks, small talks, and boredom. And so, when the sun shone through her window, she knew what she wanted. Sofia was quick to rise, dodging the aid of her slaves to dress in a deep blue peplos, arms draped with gold bangles and a smile on her face. Her hair was left mostly to its own devices, tamed only by small braids littered throughout. Even for a day of living, she had to look the part of an elegant royal. The trick would be convincing Marietta. Her unsuspecting friend would have prepared only for a day of gossip and cheeses, perhaps with a bit of wine in the evening. Well, that simply wouldn’t do.
“We’re absolutely doing this,” she grinned hours later, eyes glowing with adventure and a little too much wine. It was a gorgeous summer night: absolutely perfect for illicit activities such as this. Sofia sighed in annoyance, looking properly at Marietta. She looked genuinely anxious: a feeling that Sofia herself could not understand. What was there to be afraid of? Scandal? As if anyone would actually believe a commoner claiming to stumble upon two naked noble ladies in a lake a couple hours journey from their homes. And were rumors the worst thing? No. They could only add to the intrigue, providing fuel for later adventures.
“Marietta, listen,” Sofia said softly, folding her arms across her chest. “What’s the point in life if you never do any living?” It was so very clear to her, and yet her dearest friend still couldn’t see. “We’ve had a fantastic day, that is true. So why not give it a fitting end?”
Before Marietta could protest, Sofia was shrugging off her clothing, lightly tanned skin illuminated by the pale moon above. The adrenaline, mixed with alcohol, was already starting to energize her body and mind. It was a peaceful smile, however, that flitted across her face as she jumped into the still water. This was the kind of danger she was meant for, after all: harmless, fun, just enough to push the boundaries of socially acceptable. And she was alive, floating in the water, stars reflected in her eyes as she stared at the heavens. Even if Marietta wouldn’t join her, this was enough.
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Sofia of Marikas had woken up that morning with an itch in her heart, an intense desire to do something with her day. It was far too easy to lose track of time, to let the days flow by in an endless cycle of embroidery, garden walks, small talks, and boredom. And so, when the sun shone through her window, she knew what she wanted. Sofia was quick to rise, dodging the aid of her slaves to dress in a deep blue peplos, arms draped with gold bangles and a smile on her face. Her hair was left mostly to its own devices, tamed only by small braids littered throughout. Even for a day of living, she had to look the part of an elegant royal. The trick would be convincing Marietta. Her unsuspecting friend would have prepared only for a day of gossip and cheeses, perhaps with a bit of wine in the evening. Well, that simply wouldn’t do.
“We’re absolutely doing this,” she grinned hours later, eyes glowing with adventure and a little too much wine. It was a gorgeous summer night: absolutely perfect for illicit activities such as this. Sofia sighed in annoyance, looking properly at Marietta. She looked genuinely anxious: a feeling that Sofia herself could not understand. What was there to be afraid of? Scandal? As if anyone would actually believe a commoner claiming to stumble upon two naked noble ladies in a lake a couple hours journey from their homes. And were rumors the worst thing? No. They could only add to the intrigue, providing fuel for later adventures.
“Marietta, listen,” Sofia said softly, folding her arms across her chest. “What’s the point in life if you never do any living?” It was so very clear to her, and yet her dearest friend still couldn’t see. “We’ve had a fantastic day, that is true. So why not give it a fitting end?”
Before Marietta could protest, Sofia was shrugging off her clothing, lightly tanned skin illuminated by the pale moon above. The adrenaline, mixed with alcohol, was already starting to energize her body and mind. It was a peaceful smile, however, that flitted across her face as she jumped into the still water. This was the kind of danger she was meant for, after all: harmless, fun, just enough to push the boundaries of socially acceptable. And she was alive, floating in the water, stars reflected in her eyes as she stared at the heavens. Even if Marietta wouldn’t join her, this was enough.
Sofia of Marikas had woken up that morning with an itch in her heart, an intense desire to do something with her day. It was far too easy to lose track of time, to let the days flow by in an endless cycle of embroidery, garden walks, small talks, and boredom. And so, when the sun shone through her window, she knew what she wanted. Sofia was quick to rise, dodging the aid of her slaves to dress in a deep blue peplos, arms draped with gold bangles and a smile on her face. Her hair was left mostly to its own devices, tamed only by small braids littered throughout. Even for a day of living, she had to look the part of an elegant royal. The trick would be convincing Marietta. Her unsuspecting friend would have prepared only for a day of gossip and cheeses, perhaps with a bit of wine in the evening. Well, that simply wouldn’t do.
“We’re absolutely doing this,” she grinned hours later, eyes glowing with adventure and a little too much wine. It was a gorgeous summer night: absolutely perfect for illicit activities such as this. Sofia sighed in annoyance, looking properly at Marietta. She looked genuinely anxious: a feeling that Sofia herself could not understand. What was there to be afraid of? Scandal? As if anyone would actually believe a commoner claiming to stumble upon two naked noble ladies in a lake a couple hours journey from their homes. And were rumors the worst thing? No. They could only add to the intrigue, providing fuel for later adventures.
“Marietta, listen,” Sofia said softly, folding her arms across her chest. “What’s the point in life if you never do any living?” It was so very clear to her, and yet her dearest friend still couldn’t see. “We’ve had a fantastic day, that is true. So why not give it a fitting end?”
Before Marietta could protest, Sofia was shrugging off her clothing, lightly tanned skin illuminated by the pale moon above. The adrenaline, mixed with alcohol, was already starting to energize her body and mind. It was a peaceful smile, however, that flitted across her face as she jumped into the still water. This was the kind of danger she was meant for, after all: harmless, fun, just enough to push the boundaries of socially acceptable. And she was alive, floating in the water, stars reflected in her eyes as she stared at the heavens. Even if Marietta wouldn’t join her, this was enough.
Marietta was a girl that had very few negative feelings. She could be pushed to anger, yes, though it was difficult. She could be pushed to annoyance, which was much easier due to her sisters being the way they are. But only one person could make her feel envy and that was Sofia. Marietta was proud of her womanly looks. She held herself with grace and elegance. Yet no matter how she looked at herself, it was with an inferior light as compared to her friend. But most of all, what Marietta wish she had was Sofia’s confidence. The oft shy girl dreamed of adventure of courage. She adored listening to stories of heroes and villains, of experiences from musicians and merchants. Yet when it came to do something slightly outside of propriety, forcing herself to be more than just an observer, Marietta always fell short. Bravery. What Marietta desired most was bravery. Bravery to shed her clothes, to care not of the dangers of scandal. To leave her title behind and live in a moment without a care. To not think of yesterday or the next day, but instead truly live in the now.
Desires, however, never mattered. Her face glowed so brightly that even the moon would be envious. Her grey eyes darted towards the forest line. There was not a single living soul in sight, not even an animal. (Well, aside from the slaves, but one would argue they don’t count.) “Sofia,” Marietta’s voice came out as a whine. “This is reckless! And irresponsible! What would your family say if you were caught naked and drunk at night away from home?”
Marietta was far too sober for this. Once again Marietta had raised the wine to her lips, taking greedy sips worthy of Dionysus. A wave of dizziness washed over her. She felt her muscles relax even more. And as her muscles relaxed, the tiny drunken thought finally managed to push through the fog. It seeded itself in her brain, refusing to cave to logic.
Why not?
Indeed, why not? There was no one around. No one knew the girls were here. Marietta trusted Sofia with her life. She knew that what happened here under the moonlight would stay behind sealed lips. She had one life to experience, and now with her inhibitions impaired she could finally act a little… scandalous.
Marietta bit her lip and turned to the slaves. “I want to see the back of your heads.” It was only when they were turned did Marietta begin to shed her clothes. Her heart raced, aware that at each passing second she was leaving herself more exposed. She was baring it all to her friend, her greatest insecurities hidden behind cloths and fabrics. Marietta removed her jewelry, handing it to the slave along with her clothes.
“We never speak a word of this.” Marietta said, as she took a step forward back towards her friend. Her toes curled into the ground underneath her feet. Marietta’s stomach twisted and turned, one part in nerves, another excitement, and the last intoxication. “This had better be worth it." She said, as she finally stepped in after her friend.
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This character is currently a work in progress.
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Marietta was a girl that had very few negative feelings. She could be pushed to anger, yes, though it was difficult. She could be pushed to annoyance, which was much easier due to her sisters being the way they are. But only one person could make her feel envy and that was Sofia. Marietta was proud of her womanly looks. She held herself with grace and elegance. Yet no matter how she looked at herself, it was with an inferior light as compared to her friend. But most of all, what Marietta wish she had was Sofia’s confidence. The oft shy girl dreamed of adventure of courage. She adored listening to stories of heroes and villains, of experiences from musicians and merchants. Yet when it came to do something slightly outside of propriety, forcing herself to be more than just an observer, Marietta always fell short. Bravery. What Marietta desired most was bravery. Bravery to shed her clothes, to care not of the dangers of scandal. To leave her title behind and live in a moment without a care. To not think of yesterday or the next day, but instead truly live in the now.
Desires, however, never mattered. Her face glowed so brightly that even the moon would be envious. Her grey eyes darted towards the forest line. There was not a single living soul in sight, not even an animal. (Well, aside from the slaves, but one would argue they don’t count.) “Sofia,” Marietta’s voice came out as a whine. “This is reckless! And irresponsible! What would your family say if you were caught naked and drunk at night away from home?”
Marietta was far too sober for this. Once again Marietta had raised the wine to her lips, taking greedy sips worthy of Dionysus. A wave of dizziness washed over her. She felt her muscles relax even more. And as her muscles relaxed, the tiny drunken thought finally managed to push through the fog. It seeded itself in her brain, refusing to cave to logic.
Why not?
Indeed, why not? There was no one around. No one knew the girls were here. Marietta trusted Sofia with her life. She knew that what happened here under the moonlight would stay behind sealed lips. She had one life to experience, and now with her inhibitions impaired she could finally act a little… scandalous.
Marietta bit her lip and turned to the slaves. “I want to see the back of your heads.” It was only when they were turned did Marietta begin to shed her clothes. Her heart raced, aware that at each passing second she was leaving herself more exposed. She was baring it all to her friend, her greatest insecurities hidden behind cloths and fabrics. Marietta removed her jewelry, handing it to the slave along with her clothes.
“We never speak a word of this.” Marietta said, as she took a step forward back towards her friend. Her toes curled into the ground underneath her feet. Marietta’s stomach twisted and turned, one part in nerves, another excitement, and the last intoxication. “This had better be worth it." She said, as she finally stepped in after her friend.
Marietta was a girl that had very few negative feelings. She could be pushed to anger, yes, though it was difficult. She could be pushed to annoyance, which was much easier due to her sisters being the way they are. But only one person could make her feel envy and that was Sofia. Marietta was proud of her womanly looks. She held herself with grace and elegance. Yet no matter how she looked at herself, it was with an inferior light as compared to her friend. But most of all, what Marietta wish she had was Sofia’s confidence. The oft shy girl dreamed of adventure of courage. She adored listening to stories of heroes and villains, of experiences from musicians and merchants. Yet when it came to do something slightly outside of propriety, forcing herself to be more than just an observer, Marietta always fell short. Bravery. What Marietta desired most was bravery. Bravery to shed her clothes, to care not of the dangers of scandal. To leave her title behind and live in a moment without a care. To not think of yesterday or the next day, but instead truly live in the now.
Desires, however, never mattered. Her face glowed so brightly that even the moon would be envious. Her grey eyes darted towards the forest line. There was not a single living soul in sight, not even an animal. (Well, aside from the slaves, but one would argue they don’t count.) “Sofia,” Marietta’s voice came out as a whine. “This is reckless! And irresponsible! What would your family say if you were caught naked and drunk at night away from home?”
Marietta was far too sober for this. Once again Marietta had raised the wine to her lips, taking greedy sips worthy of Dionysus. A wave of dizziness washed over her. She felt her muscles relax even more. And as her muscles relaxed, the tiny drunken thought finally managed to push through the fog. It seeded itself in her brain, refusing to cave to logic.
Why not?
Indeed, why not? There was no one around. No one knew the girls were here. Marietta trusted Sofia with her life. She knew that what happened here under the moonlight would stay behind sealed lips. She had one life to experience, and now with her inhibitions impaired she could finally act a little… scandalous.
Marietta bit her lip and turned to the slaves. “I want to see the back of your heads.” It was only when they were turned did Marietta begin to shed her clothes. Her heart raced, aware that at each passing second she was leaving herself more exposed. She was baring it all to her friend, her greatest insecurities hidden behind cloths and fabrics. Marietta removed her jewelry, handing it to the slave along with her clothes.
“We never speak a word of this.” Marietta said, as she took a step forward back towards her friend. Her toes curled into the ground underneath her feet. Marietta’s stomach twisted and turned, one part in nerves, another excitement, and the last intoxication. “This had better be worth it." She said, as she finally stepped in after her friend.
The water was perfect: cool, clear, softly rippling against Sofia’s skin. She kept floating as Marietta fretted, contented smile on her face. This had been a perfect idea. Marietta rarely took part in her shenanigans, though Sofia often tried to convince her to live a bit more. Finally, though, Sofia had concocted a plan that her friend could agree to. Luxurious, aesthetic like Marietta’s paintings, yet just dangerous enough to send chills down her spine. A gateway.
Sofia did not look up until she heard the gentle splashes of Marietta entering the water. And when she did, she looked her friend in the face, a newfound respect mingling with the mischief in her eyes. She always knew Marietta had it in her, but she had to admit she’d been beginning to doubt her own confidence. “Don’t worry,” she teased, arms outstretched as she grinned, “Your secret is safe with me. No one will know you have the spirit of adventure!”
And there it was: the pride bubbling in her stomach, evident in her broad smile. “Come, come,” she chirped, reaching out to gently pull Marietta deeper into the water. “Isn’t this magical? Don’t you feel just wonderful?” Sofia herself certainly did. The rush never seemed to lessen, no matter how big or small the adventure. Each escapade only served to give her one more thread, one more color in the growing tapestry of freedom. Her expression faltered for a moment. One more story to tell her future children, when the tapestry had faded. It was possible to truly live, and she had proven that. Now she just needed to prove it to Marietta, too.
Sofia looked past her friend at the slaves, silently staring away from the noblewoman into the trees. They would never feel like this. And though she would never dream of inviting them to join her, Sofia felt a twinge of sadness on their behalf. Though, she supposed, perhaps there was a kind of beauty in living a simple, boring life, free of court rules and petty drama. Turning her attention back to Marietta, the smile returned to Sofia’s face in full force. “You understand now, don’t you?” She had to understand, with all the stars and water droplets and trees as witnesses. “It’s like your paintings. You make them to capture feeling, no? Well, this is how I feel.” Sofia was still a caged bird, like all noblewomen, but each brief escape was worth treasuring. Each rush of adrenaline renewed her hope, made her feel like something was in her control, even if the rest of her life was not. Well, if she was to be trapped, no better bird to share her cage with than her dearest friend, finally, hopefully, alive.
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This character is currently a work in progress.
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The water was perfect: cool, clear, softly rippling against Sofia’s skin. She kept floating as Marietta fretted, contented smile on her face. This had been a perfect idea. Marietta rarely took part in her shenanigans, though Sofia often tried to convince her to live a bit more. Finally, though, Sofia had concocted a plan that her friend could agree to. Luxurious, aesthetic like Marietta’s paintings, yet just dangerous enough to send chills down her spine. A gateway.
Sofia did not look up until she heard the gentle splashes of Marietta entering the water. And when she did, she looked her friend in the face, a newfound respect mingling with the mischief in her eyes. She always knew Marietta had it in her, but she had to admit she’d been beginning to doubt her own confidence. “Don’t worry,” she teased, arms outstretched as she grinned, “Your secret is safe with me. No one will know you have the spirit of adventure!”
And there it was: the pride bubbling in her stomach, evident in her broad smile. “Come, come,” she chirped, reaching out to gently pull Marietta deeper into the water. “Isn’t this magical? Don’t you feel just wonderful?” Sofia herself certainly did. The rush never seemed to lessen, no matter how big or small the adventure. Each escapade only served to give her one more thread, one more color in the growing tapestry of freedom. Her expression faltered for a moment. One more story to tell her future children, when the tapestry had faded. It was possible to truly live, and she had proven that. Now she just needed to prove it to Marietta, too.
Sofia looked past her friend at the slaves, silently staring away from the noblewoman into the trees. They would never feel like this. And though she would never dream of inviting them to join her, Sofia felt a twinge of sadness on their behalf. Though, she supposed, perhaps there was a kind of beauty in living a simple, boring life, free of court rules and petty drama. Turning her attention back to Marietta, the smile returned to Sofia’s face in full force. “You understand now, don’t you?” She had to understand, with all the stars and water droplets and trees as witnesses. “It’s like your paintings. You make them to capture feeling, no? Well, this is how I feel.” Sofia was still a caged bird, like all noblewomen, but each brief escape was worth treasuring. Each rush of adrenaline renewed her hope, made her feel like something was in her control, even if the rest of her life was not. Well, if she was to be trapped, no better bird to share her cage with than her dearest friend, finally, hopefully, alive.
The water was perfect: cool, clear, softly rippling against Sofia’s skin. She kept floating as Marietta fretted, contented smile on her face. This had been a perfect idea. Marietta rarely took part in her shenanigans, though Sofia often tried to convince her to live a bit more. Finally, though, Sofia had concocted a plan that her friend could agree to. Luxurious, aesthetic like Marietta’s paintings, yet just dangerous enough to send chills down her spine. A gateway.
Sofia did not look up until she heard the gentle splashes of Marietta entering the water. And when she did, she looked her friend in the face, a newfound respect mingling with the mischief in her eyes. She always knew Marietta had it in her, but she had to admit she’d been beginning to doubt her own confidence. “Don’t worry,” she teased, arms outstretched as she grinned, “Your secret is safe with me. No one will know you have the spirit of adventure!”
And there it was: the pride bubbling in her stomach, evident in her broad smile. “Come, come,” she chirped, reaching out to gently pull Marietta deeper into the water. “Isn’t this magical? Don’t you feel just wonderful?” Sofia herself certainly did. The rush never seemed to lessen, no matter how big or small the adventure. Each escapade only served to give her one more thread, one more color in the growing tapestry of freedom. Her expression faltered for a moment. One more story to tell her future children, when the tapestry had faded. It was possible to truly live, and she had proven that. Now she just needed to prove it to Marietta, too.
Sofia looked past her friend at the slaves, silently staring away from the noblewoman into the trees. They would never feel like this. And though she would never dream of inviting them to join her, Sofia felt a twinge of sadness on their behalf. Though, she supposed, perhaps there was a kind of beauty in living a simple, boring life, free of court rules and petty drama. Turning her attention back to Marietta, the smile returned to Sofia’s face in full force. “You understand now, don’t you?” She had to understand, with all the stars and water droplets and trees as witnesses. “It’s like your paintings. You make them to capture feeling, no? Well, this is how I feel.” Sofia was still a caged bird, like all noblewomen, but each brief escape was worth treasuring. Each rush of adrenaline renewed her hope, made her feel like something was in her control, even if the rest of her life was not. Well, if she was to be trapped, no better bird to share her cage with than her dearest friend, finally, hopefully, alive.
Meanwhile Marietta was transfixed. The water did feel wonderful. It was like smooth silk softly kissing her skin. Marietta had gone to the bathhouse before, but something felt more dangerous being in the wild. It was likely the most insane thing Marietta had ever done, apart from going to the docks during a dangerous storm. Marietta felt a chill as the warm water ran up her privates, causing the young woman to shiver.
But this in itself was not what had Marietta so transfixed. Her eyes widen as she saw that her body looked slightly different underwater. Her head tilted. The phenomenon wasn’t new, and yet Marietta never took real notice to it before. It almost felt like things were bigger? As the water moved it felt looked like her hand did, even though she was standing quite still. What caused this? Was it the reflection of the water itself? How did that work? Was seeing through another surface causing Marietta’s eyes to work differently? Would this work with something other than water? Her mind suddenly got consumed by this very thought. Maybe crystals or gems? Wine? But was that very practical, and if so was there really a purpose to having something look slightly disfigured?
She blinked and stared down at her reflection. Could there ever be a world where one could see themselves clearly? A time where there is no morphing of rippling water or discoloration to the reflections. That would be something of beauty, a world Marietta would very much want to live in.
Her eyes snapped back. Oh, yes. Sofia was talking. Marietta laid back in the water now, floating. She stared up at the night sky, looking to the heavens above them. Were they the gods? Marietta liked to think so. It made her feel… warm.
“Is this how peasants feel?” Marietta asked her friend. “They can do whatever they desire with no fear of scandal.” Her voice was soft. “Do you think they often just look at the stars and dream?” What else could they do?
Was it wrong for them to dream? Marietta often thought this. She dreamed of adventure, of the ability to leave her life behind and see beauty all over the world. But she had responsibilities that kept her rooted in reality. The artist would love to paint a masterpiece that came from her own experiences, one that could never be replicated. Swimming naked in a lake was hardly an experience that was unique, even if it was very scandalous.
A twinge of sadness struck Marietta. What were she and Sofia doing with their lives? Were petty fun and boring responsibility all that it would be? “If you were a peasant, Sofia, what would you do? I enjoy watching the dockworkers. Their language aside, they’re very interesting and full of amazing stories. I would want to be a sailor if women were allowed to be. If not, I would stow away on a boat. The ocean is so interesting, isn’t it? I could tell the most fascinating stories just from what the sea brings to me.”
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Meanwhile Marietta was transfixed. The water did feel wonderful. It was like smooth silk softly kissing her skin. Marietta had gone to the bathhouse before, but something felt more dangerous being in the wild. It was likely the most insane thing Marietta had ever done, apart from going to the docks during a dangerous storm. Marietta felt a chill as the warm water ran up her privates, causing the young woman to shiver.
But this in itself was not what had Marietta so transfixed. Her eyes widen as she saw that her body looked slightly different underwater. Her head tilted. The phenomenon wasn’t new, and yet Marietta never took real notice to it before. It almost felt like things were bigger? As the water moved it felt looked like her hand did, even though she was standing quite still. What caused this? Was it the reflection of the water itself? How did that work? Was seeing through another surface causing Marietta’s eyes to work differently? Would this work with something other than water? Her mind suddenly got consumed by this very thought. Maybe crystals or gems? Wine? But was that very practical, and if so was there really a purpose to having something look slightly disfigured?
She blinked and stared down at her reflection. Could there ever be a world where one could see themselves clearly? A time where there is no morphing of rippling water or discoloration to the reflections. That would be something of beauty, a world Marietta would very much want to live in.
Her eyes snapped back. Oh, yes. Sofia was talking. Marietta laid back in the water now, floating. She stared up at the night sky, looking to the heavens above them. Were they the gods? Marietta liked to think so. It made her feel… warm.
“Is this how peasants feel?” Marietta asked her friend. “They can do whatever they desire with no fear of scandal.” Her voice was soft. “Do you think they often just look at the stars and dream?” What else could they do?
Was it wrong for them to dream? Marietta often thought this. She dreamed of adventure, of the ability to leave her life behind and see beauty all over the world. But she had responsibilities that kept her rooted in reality. The artist would love to paint a masterpiece that came from her own experiences, one that could never be replicated. Swimming naked in a lake was hardly an experience that was unique, even if it was very scandalous.
A twinge of sadness struck Marietta. What were she and Sofia doing with their lives? Were petty fun and boring responsibility all that it would be? “If you were a peasant, Sofia, what would you do? I enjoy watching the dockworkers. Their language aside, they’re very interesting and full of amazing stories. I would want to be a sailor if women were allowed to be. If not, I would stow away on a boat. The ocean is so interesting, isn’t it? I could tell the most fascinating stories just from what the sea brings to me.”
Meanwhile Marietta was transfixed. The water did feel wonderful. It was like smooth silk softly kissing her skin. Marietta had gone to the bathhouse before, but something felt more dangerous being in the wild. It was likely the most insane thing Marietta had ever done, apart from going to the docks during a dangerous storm. Marietta felt a chill as the warm water ran up her privates, causing the young woman to shiver.
But this in itself was not what had Marietta so transfixed. Her eyes widen as she saw that her body looked slightly different underwater. Her head tilted. The phenomenon wasn’t new, and yet Marietta never took real notice to it before. It almost felt like things were bigger? As the water moved it felt looked like her hand did, even though she was standing quite still. What caused this? Was it the reflection of the water itself? How did that work? Was seeing through another surface causing Marietta’s eyes to work differently? Would this work with something other than water? Her mind suddenly got consumed by this very thought. Maybe crystals or gems? Wine? But was that very practical, and if so was there really a purpose to having something look slightly disfigured?
She blinked and stared down at her reflection. Could there ever be a world where one could see themselves clearly? A time where there is no morphing of rippling water or discoloration to the reflections. That would be something of beauty, a world Marietta would very much want to live in.
Her eyes snapped back. Oh, yes. Sofia was talking. Marietta laid back in the water now, floating. She stared up at the night sky, looking to the heavens above them. Were they the gods? Marietta liked to think so. It made her feel… warm.
“Is this how peasants feel?” Marietta asked her friend. “They can do whatever they desire with no fear of scandal.” Her voice was soft. “Do you think they often just look at the stars and dream?” What else could they do?
Was it wrong for them to dream? Marietta often thought this. She dreamed of adventure, of the ability to leave her life behind and see beauty all over the world. But she had responsibilities that kept her rooted in reality. The artist would love to paint a masterpiece that came from her own experiences, one that could never be replicated. Swimming naked in a lake was hardly an experience that was unique, even if it was very scandalous.
A twinge of sadness struck Marietta. What were she and Sofia doing with their lives? Were petty fun and boring responsibility all that it would be? “If you were a peasant, Sofia, what would you do? I enjoy watching the dockworkers. Their language aside, they’re very interesting and full of amazing stories. I would want to be a sailor if women were allowed to be. If not, I would stow away on a boat. The ocean is so interesting, isn’t it? I could tell the most fascinating stories just from what the sea brings to me.”
Sofia could not help but smile. Her friend looked so mesmerized, so pleased, so… intoxicated. Well, if wine was what was needed to push her the last step, so be it. Now, Sofia felt sure, it would become easier and easier to extract moments like these from Marietta. She would come to understand. Or perhaps not. Sofia supposed that would be alright, too. Not everyone could be as reckless as she, and that was most likely a good thing. Though the royal did long for someone else to understand the magical feeling that came from these little adventures, to long for it, too. Standing in the moonlight, water shimmering and dancing on her smooth skin… even with the potential danger, this was peace. No one could take these moments from her.
Sofia followed her friend’s gaze up to the stars, cold and solitary in their celestial city. “The stars are doomed, Marietta,” she sighed, wading a few steps deeper until the water settled over her shoulders. “Just like us. They watch and listen and never experience.”
She let herself fall into the lake’s embrace, eyes squeezed shut as the ripples closed over her head, little braids loosening and softening underwater. A moment later she emerged, droplets falling from her gently illuminated skin, to look at Marietta once more. “I envy the peasants their freedom too, sometimes,” Sofia said quietly, eyes nearly glowing as she peered at her friend. “I would want to travel. Perhaps as a travelling merchant. There must be so many wonderful things outside of Athenia, so many adventures to go on.” She liked the idea of sailing, too, though being trapped on a boat for weeks at a time sounded less optimal. Only a small step above being trapped in courtly duties, in fact. “The ocean is fascinating, yes,” she agreed, though perhaps not enthusiastically. The ocean was chaotic, adventurous, yes, but Sofia imagined the appeal of endless blue waves might wear off rather quickly as a sailor. “It feels wrong that we must try so hard to find stories of our own. I dream of stumbling upon an adventure and forging the path, but instead we are trapped as women, as royals.”
That might have been a bit unfair. She lived in the lap of luxury, after all, but it was hard not to watch the content smiles on the faces of the merchants and sailors. They lived simple lives, but they lived the lives they chose. Her mind was slightly hazy, in stark contrast to the clear water, and Sofia wondered if she had always felt this way, or if the alcohol made her longing hurt worse. The smile had long since faded from her lips, replaced by a slight frown. Marietta, too, no longer looked as wonderstruck. The mood had sobered, though the young women had not, tugging at their ankles like an anchor in the watery depths.
“We must keep dreaming,” she murmured, raising a hand to press a palm against her own forehead. She had had more wine than she’d thought and her feet felt unsteady on the sandy lake floor. “Keep making stories.”
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Sofia could not help but smile. Her friend looked so mesmerized, so pleased, so… intoxicated. Well, if wine was what was needed to push her the last step, so be it. Now, Sofia felt sure, it would become easier and easier to extract moments like these from Marietta. She would come to understand. Or perhaps not. Sofia supposed that would be alright, too. Not everyone could be as reckless as she, and that was most likely a good thing. Though the royal did long for someone else to understand the magical feeling that came from these little adventures, to long for it, too. Standing in the moonlight, water shimmering and dancing on her smooth skin… even with the potential danger, this was peace. No one could take these moments from her.
Sofia followed her friend’s gaze up to the stars, cold and solitary in their celestial city. “The stars are doomed, Marietta,” she sighed, wading a few steps deeper until the water settled over her shoulders. “Just like us. They watch and listen and never experience.”
She let herself fall into the lake’s embrace, eyes squeezed shut as the ripples closed over her head, little braids loosening and softening underwater. A moment later she emerged, droplets falling from her gently illuminated skin, to look at Marietta once more. “I envy the peasants their freedom too, sometimes,” Sofia said quietly, eyes nearly glowing as she peered at her friend. “I would want to travel. Perhaps as a travelling merchant. There must be so many wonderful things outside of Athenia, so many adventures to go on.” She liked the idea of sailing, too, though being trapped on a boat for weeks at a time sounded less optimal. Only a small step above being trapped in courtly duties, in fact. “The ocean is fascinating, yes,” she agreed, though perhaps not enthusiastically. The ocean was chaotic, adventurous, yes, but Sofia imagined the appeal of endless blue waves might wear off rather quickly as a sailor. “It feels wrong that we must try so hard to find stories of our own. I dream of stumbling upon an adventure and forging the path, but instead we are trapped as women, as royals.”
That might have been a bit unfair. She lived in the lap of luxury, after all, but it was hard not to watch the content smiles on the faces of the merchants and sailors. They lived simple lives, but they lived the lives they chose. Her mind was slightly hazy, in stark contrast to the clear water, and Sofia wondered if she had always felt this way, or if the alcohol made her longing hurt worse. The smile had long since faded from her lips, replaced by a slight frown. Marietta, too, no longer looked as wonderstruck. The mood had sobered, though the young women had not, tugging at their ankles like an anchor in the watery depths.
“We must keep dreaming,” she murmured, raising a hand to press a palm against her own forehead. She had had more wine than she’d thought and her feet felt unsteady on the sandy lake floor. “Keep making stories.”
Sofia could not help but smile. Her friend looked so mesmerized, so pleased, so… intoxicated. Well, if wine was what was needed to push her the last step, so be it. Now, Sofia felt sure, it would become easier and easier to extract moments like these from Marietta. She would come to understand. Or perhaps not. Sofia supposed that would be alright, too. Not everyone could be as reckless as she, and that was most likely a good thing. Though the royal did long for someone else to understand the magical feeling that came from these little adventures, to long for it, too. Standing in the moonlight, water shimmering and dancing on her smooth skin… even with the potential danger, this was peace. No one could take these moments from her.
Sofia followed her friend’s gaze up to the stars, cold and solitary in their celestial city. “The stars are doomed, Marietta,” she sighed, wading a few steps deeper until the water settled over her shoulders. “Just like us. They watch and listen and never experience.”
She let herself fall into the lake’s embrace, eyes squeezed shut as the ripples closed over her head, little braids loosening and softening underwater. A moment later she emerged, droplets falling from her gently illuminated skin, to look at Marietta once more. “I envy the peasants their freedom too, sometimes,” Sofia said quietly, eyes nearly glowing as she peered at her friend. “I would want to travel. Perhaps as a travelling merchant. There must be so many wonderful things outside of Athenia, so many adventures to go on.” She liked the idea of sailing, too, though being trapped on a boat for weeks at a time sounded less optimal. Only a small step above being trapped in courtly duties, in fact. “The ocean is fascinating, yes,” she agreed, though perhaps not enthusiastically. The ocean was chaotic, adventurous, yes, but Sofia imagined the appeal of endless blue waves might wear off rather quickly as a sailor. “It feels wrong that we must try so hard to find stories of our own. I dream of stumbling upon an adventure and forging the path, but instead we are trapped as women, as royals.”
That might have been a bit unfair. She lived in the lap of luxury, after all, but it was hard not to watch the content smiles on the faces of the merchants and sailors. They lived simple lives, but they lived the lives they chose. Her mind was slightly hazy, in stark contrast to the clear water, and Sofia wondered if she had always felt this way, or if the alcohol made her longing hurt worse. The smile had long since faded from her lips, replaced by a slight frown. Marietta, too, no longer looked as wonderstruck. The mood had sobered, though the young women had not, tugging at their ankles like an anchor in the watery depths.
“We must keep dreaming,” she murmured, raising a hand to press a palm against her own forehead. She had had more wine than she’d thought and her feet felt unsteady on the sandy lake floor. “Keep making stories.”
Were the stars doomed? Was she doomed? Was experience all that it was cracked up to be? Was there not power in observation? A lot of Marietta’s most beautiful portraits came from seeing things that no one else can see. She often looked for the beauty in the mundane, complexity in what was otherwise simple. She knew she should experience, just as Sofia said, but Marietta did not see any harm in being an observer. Going into a situation with no prior knowledge was akin to being blind, and that was one of Marietta’s greatest fears.
All this thinking was making her dizzy. Marietta was not quite ready to be sober just yet. Flipping from her black, Marietta dove under the water. The shock of the liquid rushing over her head reinvigorated her. She resurfaced near Sofia with a splash.
“If I were a commoner…” Hm, Marietta wondered. “I would be a traveling painter. I would get on boats and explore the world beyond Athenia. Perhaps I would go to Egypt and see their deserts. Or perhaps I would go farther, to lands we may not even have discovered, that are still flush with nature.”
Marietta pondered. Was that exciting enough? No, she could do better. “I wouldn’t be Marietta of Antonis. I would be… Maya of Attia. My parents would have owned a small vineyard. Every morning fresh grapes would be on the table. We would have a dog named Aegeus and I would have a little brother named Orrin. I would have spent most of my childhood barefoot, running through the vineyard with my brother and Aegeus.”
Marietta pushed back onto her back so she could stare at all the gods and demi-gods above her. Each twinkle made her smile as if they were looking down upon her. She knew that likely wasn’t the case. There were more important things to watch over. Still, Marietta could not help but feel warmth at just that idea.
“I would have fallen in love with a sailor. But then, tragedy! Father doesn’t approve! ‘No no, I’ve chosen the tailor’s son for you. You two would make a fine pairing.’ He would say. ‘But, papa!’ I would argue with him. But my father would not listen, and tear me away from my one true love!’" Marietta said with a dramatic gasp.
“But then,” she paused. “My love, Keelan, would show up in the dead of night. I would hear yelling from the other room. And gasp! My father has taken out a sword. ‘No papa!’ I would shout as my father brandishes it towards Keelan. Keelan would leap out of the way, his chiton barely catching on the blade. I would run forward, throwing myself between the blade and my love. ‘You mustn’t!’ I’d plead, tears running down my cheeks.”
Marietta was lost in the story. The world felt like it was melting away. She was not Marietta of Antonis, but Maya of Attia. “But father would start forward. And then… and then…” She giggled and splashed Sofia. “And then?”
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Were the stars doomed? Was she doomed? Was experience all that it was cracked up to be? Was there not power in observation? A lot of Marietta’s most beautiful portraits came from seeing things that no one else can see. She often looked for the beauty in the mundane, complexity in what was otherwise simple. She knew she should experience, just as Sofia said, but Marietta did not see any harm in being an observer. Going into a situation with no prior knowledge was akin to being blind, and that was one of Marietta’s greatest fears.
All this thinking was making her dizzy. Marietta was not quite ready to be sober just yet. Flipping from her black, Marietta dove under the water. The shock of the liquid rushing over her head reinvigorated her. She resurfaced near Sofia with a splash.
“If I were a commoner…” Hm, Marietta wondered. “I would be a traveling painter. I would get on boats and explore the world beyond Athenia. Perhaps I would go to Egypt and see their deserts. Or perhaps I would go farther, to lands we may not even have discovered, that are still flush with nature.”
Marietta pondered. Was that exciting enough? No, she could do better. “I wouldn’t be Marietta of Antonis. I would be… Maya of Attia. My parents would have owned a small vineyard. Every morning fresh grapes would be on the table. We would have a dog named Aegeus and I would have a little brother named Orrin. I would have spent most of my childhood barefoot, running through the vineyard with my brother and Aegeus.”
Marietta pushed back onto her back so she could stare at all the gods and demi-gods above her. Each twinkle made her smile as if they were looking down upon her. She knew that likely wasn’t the case. There were more important things to watch over. Still, Marietta could not help but feel warmth at just that idea.
“I would have fallen in love with a sailor. But then, tragedy! Father doesn’t approve! ‘No no, I’ve chosen the tailor’s son for you. You two would make a fine pairing.’ He would say. ‘But, papa!’ I would argue with him. But my father would not listen, and tear me away from my one true love!’" Marietta said with a dramatic gasp.
“But then,” she paused. “My love, Keelan, would show up in the dead of night. I would hear yelling from the other room. And gasp! My father has taken out a sword. ‘No papa!’ I would shout as my father brandishes it towards Keelan. Keelan would leap out of the way, his chiton barely catching on the blade. I would run forward, throwing myself between the blade and my love. ‘You mustn’t!’ I’d plead, tears running down my cheeks.”
Marietta was lost in the story. The world felt like it was melting away. She was not Marietta of Antonis, but Maya of Attia. “But father would start forward. And then… and then…” She giggled and splashed Sofia. “And then?”
Were the stars doomed? Was she doomed? Was experience all that it was cracked up to be? Was there not power in observation? A lot of Marietta’s most beautiful portraits came from seeing things that no one else can see. She often looked for the beauty in the mundane, complexity in what was otherwise simple. She knew she should experience, just as Sofia said, but Marietta did not see any harm in being an observer. Going into a situation with no prior knowledge was akin to being blind, and that was one of Marietta’s greatest fears.
All this thinking was making her dizzy. Marietta was not quite ready to be sober just yet. Flipping from her black, Marietta dove under the water. The shock of the liquid rushing over her head reinvigorated her. She resurfaced near Sofia with a splash.
“If I were a commoner…” Hm, Marietta wondered. “I would be a traveling painter. I would get on boats and explore the world beyond Athenia. Perhaps I would go to Egypt and see their deserts. Or perhaps I would go farther, to lands we may not even have discovered, that are still flush with nature.”
Marietta pondered. Was that exciting enough? No, she could do better. “I wouldn’t be Marietta of Antonis. I would be… Maya of Attia. My parents would have owned a small vineyard. Every morning fresh grapes would be on the table. We would have a dog named Aegeus and I would have a little brother named Orrin. I would have spent most of my childhood barefoot, running through the vineyard with my brother and Aegeus.”
Marietta pushed back onto her back so she could stare at all the gods and demi-gods above her. Each twinkle made her smile as if they were looking down upon her. She knew that likely wasn’t the case. There were more important things to watch over. Still, Marietta could not help but feel warmth at just that idea.
“I would have fallen in love with a sailor. But then, tragedy! Father doesn’t approve! ‘No no, I’ve chosen the tailor’s son for you. You two would make a fine pairing.’ He would say. ‘But, papa!’ I would argue with him. But my father would not listen, and tear me away from my one true love!’" Marietta said with a dramatic gasp.
“But then,” she paused. “My love, Keelan, would show up in the dead of night. I would hear yelling from the other room. And gasp! My father has taken out a sword. ‘No papa!’ I would shout as my father brandishes it towards Keelan. Keelan would leap out of the way, his chiton barely catching on the blade. I would run forward, throwing myself between the blade and my love. ‘You mustn’t!’ I’d plead, tears running down my cheeks.”
Marietta was lost in the story. The world felt like it was melting away. She was not Marietta of Antonis, but Maya of Attia. “But father would start forward. And then… and then…” She giggled and splashed Sofia. “And then?”
The wrinkles began to slowly form on the tips of her fingers, grotesque and sad. Like the grapes of Maya of Attia’s vineyard, left in the sun to shrivel and rot. Sofia shivered, wrapping her arms around her bare torso, careful not to let her fingers drag against the rest of her skin. Was this how it felt to go to waste? To decay so slowly seemed the most tragic fate. One advantage of the stars was how they sometimes fell from the sky, burning across the horizon in a farewell tour of life. They were doomed, yes, but better to burn than to rot.
Mimicking Marietta, Sofia sank slowly back into the water, gently floating with her eyes refocused upwards on the stars. Everything else blurred, leaving only pinpricks of light in the darkness and her best friend’s voice, gentle and hypnotic. It was a wonderful life that Marietta—Maya—described, simple yet dramatic, full of love and beauty. And as her friend created the tiniest of waves, washing over her stomach, Sofia wanted nothing more to furnish the story with her own dreams. “And then Keelan would brandish his own sword, declaring his love for you. Declaring that you were more important than any arranged match, than anything that your father could say.” Her voice started quiet, barely a whisper, and grew louder with each sentence. “Your father’s face would change; his sword would waver. And in that moment, Keelan would grab your hand and you would run, run fast and far to his ship, waiting in the harbor to set sail.” Sofia smiled up at the stars even as a single tear fell from her eye, uniting with the lake.
“You would be married in a little ceremony on the sea, and you would see the world together. Each port would teach you something new. And you would dream—” her voice broke, “dream some nights of Orrin and Aegus and the sad look on your father’s face as you ran, but you would be happy.” Sofia felt weightless and cold as a summer breeze blew across the lake. The story was happy, but she was not. These were things that could never happen. Not for her, Sofia, and not for Marietta, either. Maya of Attia was only a dream. Sofia would never float with the stars, not with an anchor tying her to royalty, not with the name Marikas. Her body felt heavy as she stood, toes curling once more into the sandy lakebed. On the bank, the slaves stood silently, backs to the lake as Marietta had commanded.
Sofia turned back to face her friend, droplets falling from her hair and skin and back into the lake. Slowly, she raised her arms to the sky, head tilted back once more, stars spinning like dim fire in her eyes. And she yelled, eyes screwing shut and wrinkled fingers clenching into fists that she imagined pounding the sky with. She could hear the slaves gasp with worry, could feel Marietta’s eyes on her but she did not, could not care. Sometimes, the act of danger was not enough. Sometimes a greater release was needed. And so she yelled, yelled until her lungs ran out of breath and the sound evaporated in her throat, leaving her, chest heaving, silent.
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The wrinkles began to slowly form on the tips of her fingers, grotesque and sad. Like the grapes of Maya of Attia’s vineyard, left in the sun to shrivel and rot. Sofia shivered, wrapping her arms around her bare torso, careful not to let her fingers drag against the rest of her skin. Was this how it felt to go to waste? To decay so slowly seemed the most tragic fate. One advantage of the stars was how they sometimes fell from the sky, burning across the horizon in a farewell tour of life. They were doomed, yes, but better to burn than to rot.
Mimicking Marietta, Sofia sank slowly back into the water, gently floating with her eyes refocused upwards on the stars. Everything else blurred, leaving only pinpricks of light in the darkness and her best friend’s voice, gentle and hypnotic. It was a wonderful life that Marietta—Maya—described, simple yet dramatic, full of love and beauty. And as her friend created the tiniest of waves, washing over her stomach, Sofia wanted nothing more to furnish the story with her own dreams. “And then Keelan would brandish his own sword, declaring his love for you. Declaring that you were more important than any arranged match, than anything that your father could say.” Her voice started quiet, barely a whisper, and grew louder with each sentence. “Your father’s face would change; his sword would waver. And in that moment, Keelan would grab your hand and you would run, run fast and far to his ship, waiting in the harbor to set sail.” Sofia smiled up at the stars even as a single tear fell from her eye, uniting with the lake.
“You would be married in a little ceremony on the sea, and you would see the world together. Each port would teach you something new. And you would dream—” her voice broke, “dream some nights of Orrin and Aegus and the sad look on your father’s face as you ran, but you would be happy.” Sofia felt weightless and cold as a summer breeze blew across the lake. The story was happy, but she was not. These were things that could never happen. Not for her, Sofia, and not for Marietta, either. Maya of Attia was only a dream. Sofia would never float with the stars, not with an anchor tying her to royalty, not with the name Marikas. Her body felt heavy as she stood, toes curling once more into the sandy lakebed. On the bank, the slaves stood silently, backs to the lake as Marietta had commanded.
Sofia turned back to face her friend, droplets falling from her hair and skin and back into the lake. Slowly, she raised her arms to the sky, head tilted back once more, stars spinning like dim fire in her eyes. And she yelled, eyes screwing shut and wrinkled fingers clenching into fists that she imagined pounding the sky with. She could hear the slaves gasp with worry, could feel Marietta’s eyes on her but she did not, could not care. Sometimes, the act of danger was not enough. Sometimes a greater release was needed. And so she yelled, yelled until her lungs ran out of breath and the sound evaporated in her throat, leaving her, chest heaving, silent.
The wrinkles began to slowly form on the tips of her fingers, grotesque and sad. Like the grapes of Maya of Attia’s vineyard, left in the sun to shrivel and rot. Sofia shivered, wrapping her arms around her bare torso, careful not to let her fingers drag against the rest of her skin. Was this how it felt to go to waste? To decay so slowly seemed the most tragic fate. One advantage of the stars was how they sometimes fell from the sky, burning across the horizon in a farewell tour of life. They were doomed, yes, but better to burn than to rot.
Mimicking Marietta, Sofia sank slowly back into the water, gently floating with her eyes refocused upwards on the stars. Everything else blurred, leaving only pinpricks of light in the darkness and her best friend’s voice, gentle and hypnotic. It was a wonderful life that Marietta—Maya—described, simple yet dramatic, full of love and beauty. And as her friend created the tiniest of waves, washing over her stomach, Sofia wanted nothing more to furnish the story with her own dreams. “And then Keelan would brandish his own sword, declaring his love for you. Declaring that you were more important than any arranged match, than anything that your father could say.” Her voice started quiet, barely a whisper, and grew louder with each sentence. “Your father’s face would change; his sword would waver. And in that moment, Keelan would grab your hand and you would run, run fast and far to his ship, waiting in the harbor to set sail.” Sofia smiled up at the stars even as a single tear fell from her eye, uniting with the lake.
“You would be married in a little ceremony on the sea, and you would see the world together. Each port would teach you something new. And you would dream—” her voice broke, “dream some nights of Orrin and Aegus and the sad look on your father’s face as you ran, but you would be happy.” Sofia felt weightless and cold as a summer breeze blew across the lake. The story was happy, but she was not. These were things that could never happen. Not for her, Sofia, and not for Marietta, either. Maya of Attia was only a dream. Sofia would never float with the stars, not with an anchor tying her to royalty, not with the name Marikas. Her body felt heavy as she stood, toes curling once more into the sandy lakebed. On the bank, the slaves stood silently, backs to the lake as Marietta had commanded.
Sofia turned back to face her friend, droplets falling from her hair and skin and back into the lake. Slowly, she raised her arms to the sky, head tilted back once more, stars spinning like dim fire in her eyes. And she yelled, eyes screwing shut and wrinkled fingers clenching into fists that she imagined pounding the sky with. She could hear the slaves gasp with worry, could feel Marietta’s eyes on her but she did not, could not care. Sometimes, the act of danger was not enough. Sometimes a greater release was needed. And so she yelled, yelled until her lungs ran out of breath and the sound evaporated in her throat, leaving her, chest heaving, silent.
A wedding by the sea. Oh that would be such a beautiful thing. Marietta would be barefoot. Her feet would be at the edge of the water so that every so often the waves would brush her soles, becoming her and her husband closer. She would stare into his eyes, lost in them as if they were a labyrinth. Her hand would be in his, the warmth of his grasp reaching her heart. And they would kiss as the world melted away, before going off to their next great adventure.
Marietta’s fantasies were cut short as her friend suddenly yelled. She startled for a moment, wondering if she was hurt or if there were something in the water. But then laughter poured from her lips. And as soon as it started, she couldn’t stop. She laughed as Sofia yelled. The two looked like insane maniacs. But they were happy, carefree girls. Not royals, not women with responsibility. They were free and joyous, living life in the now instead of in a future that may happen, or a past they wished had happened.
“Oh stop, Sofia.” Marietta gave a bigger splash. “You’re scaring me. I thought something might have happened. And you must have given the slaves a terrible fright.” Oh Sofia, always doing something other people would think was insane. She was charming, another reason why Marietta loved her so.
By now she was feeling sober. The cold water mixed with Sofia scaring her have to death certainly added more clarity to her mind. She was able to function now, to see straight. “Are you sober now, Sofia? Perhaps we should consider actually giving my cousin a visit? It’s getting late, and I do believe it would take far too long to go back to the capital. I did also send a letter ahead of us. I’m sure if he’s received it he’ll be wondering where on earth we had gone.”
Marietta got out of the lake. She moved over to the slaves and retrieved her clothes. “If you ask me to repeat myself I will not, and if you talk of this I will deny it, but I am happy you convinced me to do this.” She gave her friend a wicked smile. “I won’t do it again, but now I at least have a memory of being a little more… scandalous.” Why was it that Marietta could only truly be convinced to do something if alcohol was involved? This was the same as the Princess’s birthday party years prior. She should remember in the future, despite the enjoyment she had, to not allow herself to drink in the presence of Sofia. She was a terrible influence and knew exactly how to manipulate her friend at her most vulnerable to do something so entirely out of her comfort zone.
But this night did provide Marietta with inspiration. It was a night she would not forget. It was burned in her memory and would be the subject of her next artwork. Two mysterious girls bathing in the moonlight.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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A wedding by the sea. Oh that would be such a beautiful thing. Marietta would be barefoot. Her feet would be at the edge of the water so that every so often the waves would brush her soles, becoming her and her husband closer. She would stare into his eyes, lost in them as if they were a labyrinth. Her hand would be in his, the warmth of his grasp reaching her heart. And they would kiss as the world melted away, before going off to their next great adventure.
Marietta’s fantasies were cut short as her friend suddenly yelled. She startled for a moment, wondering if she was hurt or if there were something in the water. But then laughter poured from her lips. And as soon as it started, she couldn’t stop. She laughed as Sofia yelled. The two looked like insane maniacs. But they were happy, carefree girls. Not royals, not women with responsibility. They were free and joyous, living life in the now instead of in a future that may happen, or a past they wished had happened.
“Oh stop, Sofia.” Marietta gave a bigger splash. “You’re scaring me. I thought something might have happened. And you must have given the slaves a terrible fright.” Oh Sofia, always doing something other people would think was insane. She was charming, another reason why Marietta loved her so.
By now she was feeling sober. The cold water mixed with Sofia scaring her have to death certainly added more clarity to her mind. She was able to function now, to see straight. “Are you sober now, Sofia? Perhaps we should consider actually giving my cousin a visit? It’s getting late, and I do believe it would take far too long to go back to the capital. I did also send a letter ahead of us. I’m sure if he’s received it he’ll be wondering where on earth we had gone.”
Marietta got out of the lake. She moved over to the slaves and retrieved her clothes. “If you ask me to repeat myself I will not, and if you talk of this I will deny it, but I am happy you convinced me to do this.” She gave her friend a wicked smile. “I won’t do it again, but now I at least have a memory of being a little more… scandalous.” Why was it that Marietta could only truly be convinced to do something if alcohol was involved? This was the same as the Princess’s birthday party years prior. She should remember in the future, despite the enjoyment she had, to not allow herself to drink in the presence of Sofia. She was a terrible influence and knew exactly how to manipulate her friend at her most vulnerable to do something so entirely out of her comfort zone.
But this night did provide Marietta with inspiration. It was a night she would not forget. It was burned in her memory and would be the subject of her next artwork. Two mysterious girls bathing in the moonlight.
A wedding by the sea. Oh that would be such a beautiful thing. Marietta would be barefoot. Her feet would be at the edge of the water so that every so often the waves would brush her soles, becoming her and her husband closer. She would stare into his eyes, lost in them as if they were a labyrinth. Her hand would be in his, the warmth of his grasp reaching her heart. And they would kiss as the world melted away, before going off to their next great adventure.
Marietta’s fantasies were cut short as her friend suddenly yelled. She startled for a moment, wondering if she was hurt or if there were something in the water. But then laughter poured from her lips. And as soon as it started, she couldn’t stop. She laughed as Sofia yelled. The two looked like insane maniacs. But they were happy, carefree girls. Not royals, not women with responsibility. They were free and joyous, living life in the now instead of in a future that may happen, or a past they wished had happened.
“Oh stop, Sofia.” Marietta gave a bigger splash. “You’re scaring me. I thought something might have happened. And you must have given the slaves a terrible fright.” Oh Sofia, always doing something other people would think was insane. She was charming, another reason why Marietta loved her so.
By now she was feeling sober. The cold water mixed with Sofia scaring her have to death certainly added more clarity to her mind. She was able to function now, to see straight. “Are you sober now, Sofia? Perhaps we should consider actually giving my cousin a visit? It’s getting late, and I do believe it would take far too long to go back to the capital. I did also send a letter ahead of us. I’m sure if he’s received it he’ll be wondering where on earth we had gone.”
Marietta got out of the lake. She moved over to the slaves and retrieved her clothes. “If you ask me to repeat myself I will not, and if you talk of this I will deny it, but I am happy you convinced me to do this.” She gave her friend a wicked smile. “I won’t do it again, but now I at least have a memory of being a little more… scandalous.” Why was it that Marietta could only truly be convinced to do something if alcohol was involved? This was the same as the Princess’s birthday party years prior. She should remember in the future, despite the enjoyment she had, to not allow herself to drink in the presence of Sofia. She was a terrible influence and knew exactly how to manipulate her friend at her most vulnerable to do something so entirely out of her comfort zone.
But this night did provide Marietta with inspiration. It was a night she would not forget. It was burned in her memory and would be the subject of her next artwork. Two mysterious girls bathing in the moonlight.
Sofia’s ears were ringing with yelling and laughter long after the two of them were silent. It had felt good to drown out the responsibilities for a moment. But it was no use wishing to feel like that all the time, for where would that leave her? Melancholy, wasting away, lusting after an impossible dream. No, it was time to go.
She forced a smile to her face, confident that if she maintained it for long enough, the gnawing feeling in the pit of her stomach would disappear. “I’m sober enough,” she sighed dramatically, lifting a handful of water to her shoulder and letting it trickle down her arm, slowly, slowly. She would remember these feelings, this little moment in time. This wondrous night spent with her dearest friend in a moonlit lake, tossing wishes back and forth like a game. “Won’t your cousin be suspicious anyway when we turn up with damp hair and delirious grins?” she teased, slowly stepping from the water. The last few steps were hard; the water clung to her, calling her back to dream some more. When she was back on the shore, her tension in her stomach lessened. Back to normalcy, one step at a time.
Shivering, smiling, floating, she began to get dressed. More strange feelings: the way the fabric of her peplos clung to her wet skin, the cold metal bangles on her wrists, the water droplets from her hair rolling slowly down her back. But nothing compared to the feeling that rose up like a wave when Marietta spoke again. Marietta was happy, pleased to have come! Oh, this was even better than Sofia had hoped. “We’ll see about that,” she sniffed, matching the wickedness on Marietta’s face. If her friend had enjoyed a covert dip in the lake at midnight, Sofia was certain she could concoct even better adventures. Perhaps next time, Marietta wouldn’t even need wine!
Sofia’s face turned serious as she finished dressing, green eyes peering gently at Marietta through the darkness. “I’m thankful you agreed to join me,” she said solemnly. “Being scandalous is much more fun with a friend, particularly one as dear as you.” And, in truth, this particular adventure had not been purely for the corruption of Marietta (though that was, of course, her ultimate goal). No, Sofia had needed this momentary retreat, too. She felt wild and out of control sometimes, and it scared her. She knew what the reality of her situation was, but it was difficult to imagine waking up every day for the rest of her life without little bits of fun to look forward to. One day she would be married, a proper royal wife fulfilling all her duties. So, before that day, she would create as many memories as possible.
The itch in her heart was satiated, for now. As the pair journeyed on to Marietta’s cousin’s manor, arms linked together, Sofia of Marikas did not look back at the shimmering water. She looked straight ahead and remembered.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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Sofia’s ears were ringing with yelling and laughter long after the two of them were silent. It had felt good to drown out the responsibilities for a moment. But it was no use wishing to feel like that all the time, for where would that leave her? Melancholy, wasting away, lusting after an impossible dream. No, it was time to go.
She forced a smile to her face, confident that if she maintained it for long enough, the gnawing feeling in the pit of her stomach would disappear. “I’m sober enough,” she sighed dramatically, lifting a handful of water to her shoulder and letting it trickle down her arm, slowly, slowly. She would remember these feelings, this little moment in time. This wondrous night spent with her dearest friend in a moonlit lake, tossing wishes back and forth like a game. “Won’t your cousin be suspicious anyway when we turn up with damp hair and delirious grins?” she teased, slowly stepping from the water. The last few steps were hard; the water clung to her, calling her back to dream some more. When she was back on the shore, her tension in her stomach lessened. Back to normalcy, one step at a time.
Shivering, smiling, floating, she began to get dressed. More strange feelings: the way the fabric of her peplos clung to her wet skin, the cold metal bangles on her wrists, the water droplets from her hair rolling slowly down her back. But nothing compared to the feeling that rose up like a wave when Marietta spoke again. Marietta was happy, pleased to have come! Oh, this was even better than Sofia had hoped. “We’ll see about that,” she sniffed, matching the wickedness on Marietta’s face. If her friend had enjoyed a covert dip in the lake at midnight, Sofia was certain she could concoct even better adventures. Perhaps next time, Marietta wouldn’t even need wine!
Sofia’s face turned serious as she finished dressing, green eyes peering gently at Marietta through the darkness. “I’m thankful you agreed to join me,” she said solemnly. “Being scandalous is much more fun with a friend, particularly one as dear as you.” And, in truth, this particular adventure had not been purely for the corruption of Marietta (though that was, of course, her ultimate goal). No, Sofia had needed this momentary retreat, too. She felt wild and out of control sometimes, and it scared her. She knew what the reality of her situation was, but it was difficult to imagine waking up every day for the rest of her life without little bits of fun to look forward to. One day she would be married, a proper royal wife fulfilling all her duties. So, before that day, she would create as many memories as possible.
The itch in her heart was satiated, for now. As the pair journeyed on to Marietta’s cousin’s manor, arms linked together, Sofia of Marikas did not look back at the shimmering water. She looked straight ahead and remembered.
Sofia’s ears were ringing with yelling and laughter long after the two of them were silent. It had felt good to drown out the responsibilities for a moment. But it was no use wishing to feel like that all the time, for where would that leave her? Melancholy, wasting away, lusting after an impossible dream. No, it was time to go.
She forced a smile to her face, confident that if she maintained it for long enough, the gnawing feeling in the pit of her stomach would disappear. “I’m sober enough,” she sighed dramatically, lifting a handful of water to her shoulder and letting it trickle down her arm, slowly, slowly. She would remember these feelings, this little moment in time. This wondrous night spent with her dearest friend in a moonlit lake, tossing wishes back and forth like a game. “Won’t your cousin be suspicious anyway when we turn up with damp hair and delirious grins?” she teased, slowly stepping from the water. The last few steps were hard; the water clung to her, calling her back to dream some more. When she was back on the shore, her tension in her stomach lessened. Back to normalcy, one step at a time.
Shivering, smiling, floating, she began to get dressed. More strange feelings: the way the fabric of her peplos clung to her wet skin, the cold metal bangles on her wrists, the water droplets from her hair rolling slowly down her back. But nothing compared to the feeling that rose up like a wave when Marietta spoke again. Marietta was happy, pleased to have come! Oh, this was even better than Sofia had hoped. “We’ll see about that,” she sniffed, matching the wickedness on Marietta’s face. If her friend had enjoyed a covert dip in the lake at midnight, Sofia was certain she could concoct even better adventures. Perhaps next time, Marietta wouldn’t even need wine!
Sofia’s face turned serious as she finished dressing, green eyes peering gently at Marietta through the darkness. “I’m thankful you agreed to join me,” she said solemnly. “Being scandalous is much more fun with a friend, particularly one as dear as you.” And, in truth, this particular adventure had not been purely for the corruption of Marietta (though that was, of course, her ultimate goal). No, Sofia had needed this momentary retreat, too. She felt wild and out of control sometimes, and it scared her. She knew what the reality of her situation was, but it was difficult to imagine waking up every day for the rest of her life without little bits of fun to look forward to. One day she would be married, a proper royal wife fulfilling all her duties. So, before that day, she would create as many memories as possible.
The itch in her heart was satiated, for now. As the pair journeyed on to Marietta’s cousin’s manor, arms linked together, Sofia of Marikas did not look back at the shimmering water. She looked straight ahead and remembered.