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The little inn that Ariadne had led the small, errant party to was poor but hardly dishevelled. It was the sort of establishment that the owner could not afford to fix or replace elements of and yet clearly worked hard to ensure that those pieces that he must live with were kept in the best possible condition and cleaned to a fine shine. It was a place of pride, even if not of prosperity. It was also a place that seemed to recognise Ariadne's face and needed no further explanation when a private room was requested, nor did he look too closely at the dark cowl that Persephone had pulled up and over her head.
They would not be here for long. For, eventually, when he could formulate his household soldiers into something of an organised search unit, Persephone was fairly certain that Elias would have his men searching every household and business for her presence. But for the next few hours - whilst men were still running the streets in the hopes of catching her on fleeting foot - they would be safe to catch a moment here. All that was needed after that would be a closed carriage that they could commandeer back to the Argyris household through merchant trade routes and private roads.
The small group were given a simple wave of the hand and a marker with a number painted upon it and Ariadne led them to the appropriate door. It was only once such a room had been shut with the five of them inside that Persephone pulled back her hood and looked around at the two women who might know more than she.
"Emilia and Elias?" She asked, her face contorted into an expression of confusion and distaste, this first question perhaps not the most important but the one that flagged to the front of her mind the fastest. "Just what has been happening since I left the palace?"
She looked from one feminine face to the other, not doubting the loyalty of a woman who had been her aide for so many years, nor the young girl who had risked her own reputation and safety by following her and potentially being seen with the Queen that was so despised by half the populace. Besides, even if Hebe was some kind of threat, she was young, small and weak as a noble woman should be. She was hardly a danger beside Iason's protective stance.
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The little inn that Ariadne had led the small, errant party to was poor but hardly dishevelled. It was the sort of establishment that the owner could not afford to fix or replace elements of and yet clearly worked hard to ensure that those pieces that he must live with were kept in the best possible condition and cleaned to a fine shine. It was a place of pride, even if not of prosperity. It was also a place that seemed to recognise Ariadne's face and needed no further explanation when a private room was requested, nor did he look too closely at the dark cowl that Persephone had pulled up and over her head.
They would not be here for long. For, eventually, when he could formulate his household soldiers into something of an organised search unit, Persephone was fairly certain that Elias would have his men searching every household and business for her presence. But for the next few hours - whilst men were still running the streets in the hopes of catching her on fleeting foot - they would be safe to catch a moment here. All that was needed after that would be a closed carriage that they could commandeer back to the Argyris household through merchant trade routes and private roads.
The small group were given a simple wave of the hand and a marker with a number painted upon it and Ariadne led them to the appropriate door. It was only once such a room had been shut with the five of them inside that Persephone pulled back her hood and looked around at the two women who might know more than she.
"Emilia and Elias?" She asked, her face contorted into an expression of confusion and distaste, this first question perhaps not the most important but the one that flagged to the front of her mind the fastest. "Just what has been happening since I left the palace?"
She looked from one feminine face to the other, not doubting the loyalty of a woman who had been her aide for so many years, nor the young girl who had risked her own reputation and safety by following her and potentially being seen with the Queen that was so despised by half the populace. Besides, even if Hebe was some kind of threat, she was young, small and weak as a noble woman should be. She was hardly a danger beside Iason's protective stance.
The little inn that Ariadne had led the small, errant party to was poor but hardly dishevelled. It was the sort of establishment that the owner could not afford to fix or replace elements of and yet clearly worked hard to ensure that those pieces that he must live with were kept in the best possible condition and cleaned to a fine shine. It was a place of pride, even if not of prosperity. It was also a place that seemed to recognise Ariadne's face and needed no further explanation when a private room was requested, nor did he look too closely at the dark cowl that Persephone had pulled up and over her head.
They would not be here for long. For, eventually, when he could formulate his household soldiers into something of an organised search unit, Persephone was fairly certain that Elias would have his men searching every household and business for her presence. But for the next few hours - whilst men were still running the streets in the hopes of catching her on fleeting foot - they would be safe to catch a moment here. All that was needed after that would be a closed carriage that they could commandeer back to the Argyris household through merchant trade routes and private roads.
The small group were given a simple wave of the hand and a marker with a number painted upon it and Ariadne led them to the appropriate door. It was only once such a room had been shut with the five of them inside that Persephone pulled back her hood and looked around at the two women who might know more than she.
"Emilia and Elias?" She asked, her face contorted into an expression of confusion and distaste, this first question perhaps not the most important but the one that flagged to the front of her mind the fastest. "Just what has been happening since I left the palace?"
She looked from one feminine face to the other, not doubting the loyalty of a woman who had been her aide for so many years, nor the young girl who had risked her own reputation and safety by following her and potentially being seen with the Queen that was so despised by half the populace. Besides, even if Hebe was some kind of threat, she was young, small and weak as a noble woman should be. She was hardly a danger beside Iason's protective stance.
They moved quietly to come to this small tavern, but Olena hadn’t given much thought to where they were going. She simply followed Persephone to the best of her ability, her mind back at the celebration. Because it was as things crumbled around them that she realized the horrifying truth.
Dima had not been able to get the letter to Emilia, as had been the intention.
If he hadn’t been able to get the letter to the source, then something must have happened to him. He would have returned by now, would have found his way back to her. Something must have happened to him, something that would have prevented him from being here. Dmytros should have never been sent there in the first place, as far as she was concerned. Curses of the Queen were on her lips, and yet she would not say them. Because she had simply asked, and he had simply agreed. There had been no order, no command-- only the need to help.
And that need had caused him to vanish.
Olena thought she was going to be sick with the revelation. Her stomach had been off for the past few days, ebbing and flowing with the rise of the sun. And yet, its usual passing had returned with a vengeance. Normally pale, she was certain that she would be close to white-skinned by now. There was little she could say to those around her, because fire would be on her tongue. She was angry, and confused and absolutely frustrated without any sort of way to express it safely. As soon as the door closed to the room, she searched for a chair. Her eyes didn’t search out the Queen for permission to drop into the simple seat.
Brushing her veil off her head, she looked at the mismatched company, knowing that was little she could provide the Queen in the way of an answer. And there was little she would provide, as she hoped to find answers of her own. Nothing mattered more than Dima in her mind, and perhaps one of these girls would know of his whereabouts. She had to know the truth, and had to know what happened to him. He could not be dead, and she would not believe him to be until she saw a body.
And she would hope that the need to empty her stomach would pass, else she would have to do so on the floor in front of them all.
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They moved quietly to come to this small tavern, but Olena hadn’t given much thought to where they were going. She simply followed Persephone to the best of her ability, her mind back at the celebration. Because it was as things crumbled around them that she realized the horrifying truth.
Dima had not been able to get the letter to Emilia, as had been the intention.
If he hadn’t been able to get the letter to the source, then something must have happened to him. He would have returned by now, would have found his way back to her. Something must have happened to him, something that would have prevented him from being here. Dmytros should have never been sent there in the first place, as far as she was concerned. Curses of the Queen were on her lips, and yet she would not say them. Because she had simply asked, and he had simply agreed. There had been no order, no command-- only the need to help.
And that need had caused him to vanish.
Olena thought she was going to be sick with the revelation. Her stomach had been off for the past few days, ebbing and flowing with the rise of the sun. And yet, its usual passing had returned with a vengeance. Normally pale, she was certain that she would be close to white-skinned by now. There was little she could say to those around her, because fire would be on her tongue. She was angry, and confused and absolutely frustrated without any sort of way to express it safely. As soon as the door closed to the room, she searched for a chair. Her eyes didn’t search out the Queen for permission to drop into the simple seat.
Brushing her veil off her head, she looked at the mismatched company, knowing that was little she could provide the Queen in the way of an answer. And there was little she would provide, as she hoped to find answers of her own. Nothing mattered more than Dima in her mind, and perhaps one of these girls would know of his whereabouts. She had to know the truth, and had to know what happened to him. He could not be dead, and she would not believe him to be until she saw a body.
And she would hope that the need to empty her stomach would pass, else she would have to do so on the floor in front of them all.
They moved quietly to come to this small tavern, but Olena hadn’t given much thought to where they were going. She simply followed Persephone to the best of her ability, her mind back at the celebration. Because it was as things crumbled around them that she realized the horrifying truth.
Dima had not been able to get the letter to Emilia, as had been the intention.
If he hadn’t been able to get the letter to the source, then something must have happened to him. He would have returned by now, would have found his way back to her. Something must have happened to him, something that would have prevented him from being here. Dmytros should have never been sent there in the first place, as far as she was concerned. Curses of the Queen were on her lips, and yet she would not say them. Because she had simply asked, and he had simply agreed. There had been no order, no command-- only the need to help.
And that need had caused him to vanish.
Olena thought she was going to be sick with the revelation. Her stomach had been off for the past few days, ebbing and flowing with the rise of the sun. And yet, its usual passing had returned with a vengeance. Normally pale, she was certain that she would be close to white-skinned by now. There was little she could say to those around her, because fire would be on her tongue. She was angry, and confused and absolutely frustrated without any sort of way to express it safely. As soon as the door closed to the room, she searched for a chair. Her eyes didn’t search out the Queen for permission to drop into the simple seat.
Brushing her veil off her head, she looked at the mismatched company, knowing that was little she could provide the Queen in the way of an answer. And there was little she would provide, as she hoped to find answers of her own. Nothing mattered more than Dima in her mind, and perhaps one of these girls would know of his whereabouts. She had to know the truth, and had to know what happened to him. He could not be dead, and she would not believe him to be until she saw a body.
And she would hope that the need to empty her stomach would pass, else she would have to do so on the floor in front of them all.
To say he was unhappy was an understatement. Iason couldn't say that he had been properly furious in a long while, but as he followed his fiancee and the women she trusted to the inn he was all but trembling with rage. They should never have gone to that place, not without adequate guard. Persephone should have stayed home, sent him and Olena to witness in her place so that she could have been kept safe. Now they knew that they were here. Even the apparent familiarity of the innkeeper with the girls among them didn't give him any confidence, and he regretted not bringing any of his proper weaponry with him.
As soon as the door was closed his own hood was pulled back, pacing around the exterior of the room in an agitated fashion. His motions were to check for any sort of spyhole or space where someone could watch or listen to them, the last thing he needed now was to provide protection for all of these people on his own. If he only had Demetrius...
The thought of the gladiator had his eyes falling on the foreign woman, watching as she sank into a chair looking as if she was about to collapse entirely. They had all been hoping that the gladiator had completed his task and was simply laying low, perhaps had been taken into Emilia's service to protect her and carry information between the sisters until they could formulate a plan. The princess' reaction today though had been clear, she had no idea her sister was in the country, and they had lost one of their own in the process, which meant those who wished to destroy Persephone already had a head start on them.
His hand fell on Olena's shoulder, giving a squeeze as comforting as he could manage as he paused in his pass by her chair. His voice was low and determined meant only for her though it was nothing to be hidden from the others. "We'll bring him back. I swear." Even if they simply brought back a body, from what little he knew of the two they deserved that sort of closure. Turning back to his fiancee, Iason kept his expression as controlled as he could while she asked her questions.
"It appears in your absence, my love, that Emilia and Elias have determined they can rule the country together." There was a bite he hadn't been expecting in his tone, from the danger or perceived loss of a man he counted as a friend, the distress of the woman behind him. This was just the first of many losses that would be suffered if Persephone kept pushing for a war.
"Perhaps we should allow them that. He kept her safe because he needed the Xanthos connection. If Emilia is happy with this outcome there is no reason to push for further violence. We sail back to Taengea and send word from there where we have the protection of King Achilleas and my family."
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This character is currently a work in progress.
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To say he was unhappy was an understatement. Iason couldn't say that he had been properly furious in a long while, but as he followed his fiancee and the women she trusted to the inn he was all but trembling with rage. They should never have gone to that place, not without adequate guard. Persephone should have stayed home, sent him and Olena to witness in her place so that she could have been kept safe. Now they knew that they were here. Even the apparent familiarity of the innkeeper with the girls among them didn't give him any confidence, and he regretted not bringing any of his proper weaponry with him.
As soon as the door was closed his own hood was pulled back, pacing around the exterior of the room in an agitated fashion. His motions were to check for any sort of spyhole or space where someone could watch or listen to them, the last thing he needed now was to provide protection for all of these people on his own. If he only had Demetrius...
The thought of the gladiator had his eyes falling on the foreign woman, watching as she sank into a chair looking as if she was about to collapse entirely. They had all been hoping that the gladiator had completed his task and was simply laying low, perhaps had been taken into Emilia's service to protect her and carry information between the sisters until they could formulate a plan. The princess' reaction today though had been clear, she had no idea her sister was in the country, and they had lost one of their own in the process, which meant those who wished to destroy Persephone already had a head start on them.
His hand fell on Olena's shoulder, giving a squeeze as comforting as he could manage as he paused in his pass by her chair. His voice was low and determined meant only for her though it was nothing to be hidden from the others. "We'll bring him back. I swear." Even if they simply brought back a body, from what little he knew of the two they deserved that sort of closure. Turning back to his fiancee, Iason kept his expression as controlled as he could while she asked her questions.
"It appears in your absence, my love, that Emilia and Elias have determined they can rule the country together." There was a bite he hadn't been expecting in his tone, from the danger or perceived loss of a man he counted as a friend, the distress of the woman behind him. This was just the first of many losses that would be suffered if Persephone kept pushing for a war.
"Perhaps we should allow them that. He kept her safe because he needed the Xanthos connection. If Emilia is happy with this outcome there is no reason to push for further violence. We sail back to Taengea and send word from there where we have the protection of King Achilleas and my family."
To say he was unhappy was an understatement. Iason couldn't say that he had been properly furious in a long while, but as he followed his fiancee and the women she trusted to the inn he was all but trembling with rage. They should never have gone to that place, not without adequate guard. Persephone should have stayed home, sent him and Olena to witness in her place so that she could have been kept safe. Now they knew that they were here. Even the apparent familiarity of the innkeeper with the girls among them didn't give him any confidence, and he regretted not bringing any of his proper weaponry with him.
As soon as the door was closed his own hood was pulled back, pacing around the exterior of the room in an agitated fashion. His motions were to check for any sort of spyhole or space where someone could watch or listen to them, the last thing he needed now was to provide protection for all of these people on his own. If he only had Demetrius...
The thought of the gladiator had his eyes falling on the foreign woman, watching as she sank into a chair looking as if she was about to collapse entirely. They had all been hoping that the gladiator had completed his task and was simply laying low, perhaps had been taken into Emilia's service to protect her and carry information between the sisters until they could formulate a plan. The princess' reaction today though had been clear, she had no idea her sister was in the country, and they had lost one of their own in the process, which meant those who wished to destroy Persephone already had a head start on them.
His hand fell on Olena's shoulder, giving a squeeze as comforting as he could manage as he paused in his pass by her chair. His voice was low and determined meant only for her though it was nothing to be hidden from the others. "We'll bring him back. I swear." Even if they simply brought back a body, from what little he knew of the two they deserved that sort of closure. Turning back to his fiancee, Iason kept his expression as controlled as he could while she asked her questions.
"It appears in your absence, my love, that Emilia and Elias have determined they can rule the country together." There was a bite he hadn't been expecting in his tone, from the danger or perceived loss of a man he counted as a friend, the distress of the woman behind him. This was just the first of many losses that would be suffered if Persephone kept pushing for a war.
"Perhaps we should allow them that. He kept her safe because he needed the Xanthos connection. If Emilia is happy with this outcome there is no reason to push for further violence. We sail back to Taengea and send word from there where we have the protection of King Achilleas and my family."
As the small group entered the room, they all took up their own posts. Olena fell to a chair that she clearly needed, looking starkly white against the vibrant colour of her hair. Iason took up a prowling stalk around the room, wearing his agitation like a cloak of disapproval. Persephone hovered in the centre of the room; the central cause of all of this.
Frustration and injustice ate away at her gut but her training ensured that her mask remained mostly in place. She wanted to stamp her foot and scream. She knew that Olena was understandably worried for Demetrius. She knew that Iason disapproved her of her choice to come here. But she did not regret it, even with the hindsight of the eventualities that had occurred.
It hadn't been the plan that her presence in Athenia was discovered. She hadn't been so foolish as to go in waving her arms and announcing her presence. But she had also had to see the state of the kingdom for herself. No report, no missive or watcher would have been able to do the justice of her own eyes. If she was to make a choice on whether to leave Athenia to its current future or plunge it into civil war, she could only make such a choice on the evidence seen with her own eyes. Not the hearsay and third-party judgements of others - however much she trusted the witnesses themselves.
And what she had seen had been dividing in the extreme.
On one hand, Iason's logic was unavoidable as he stated that Emilia and Elias had somehow decided to rule together. That political stability was now a possibility and they could simply leave for more peaceful shores and allow her sister and her new intended to rule as King and Queen.
Yet, on the other hand... Persephone had seen a starving people. She had seen the way the market stalls were running dry of goods, how there were fewer ships in the harbour than she had ever seen before. Trade was dying down and aside from a spectacle of charity that Rafail and Elias had devised, she saw no real intention or investment to correct the problem. The Stravos guards had circled the square, which meant that the Athenian Guard - who should have stood in their places - remained true to the legal monarch and had not followed any order to deploy.
Then there was Emilia. Emilia who had no-one to turn to, who Aimias had said had been the victim of Elias' advances for a while... who fell in love with a new handsome face every week. Emilia who, after any form of legal marriage would become of no use to Elias besides reproduction or removal to instil his own favoured Queen now that his kingship had been secured. Persephone felt sick with the very idea...
Emilia had had no-one to trust all these months. Not truly. And Elias could have taken advantage of that. She hadn't even known that Persephone was nearby. Which meant that Demetrius had failed to deliver her letter. Was perhaps in danger even now. Or worse.
Persephone's gaze looked towards Olena. Her gaze was sympathetic but her features remained calm and unemotive. She had been raised to be a princess - a Queen. The death of her guards, of her servants and those loyal to her was always a possibility and she could not become emotional over them all. Yet, she could be determined to ensure a correction of justice.
When Iason determined that she and he could leave Athenia - return to Taengea and live in peaceful harmony, Persephone's gaze was clear and her emotions back to a calm balance, the shock of the situation having subsided some in those few minutes.
"Or Elias has determined that he can rule with the securing of Emilia's hand." A scenario that she thought far more likely. Regardless of what Emilia might think of Elias' intentions, she could not believe that the man cruel enough to risk the peace between three powerful nations over a power play for the throne would care what happened to Emilia's impressionable little heart.
Persephone looked towards Ariadne and Hebe; a questioning look upon her face. As a retainer to the crown and royal blooded respectively, they would have been permitted within the palati, had they pushed the subject. Perhaps they had seen her sister, or knew more of whether the girl was truly enamoured with Elias. And just exactly what her cousin had in mind for the union between the two of them...
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As the small group entered the room, they all took up their own posts. Olena fell to a chair that she clearly needed, looking starkly white against the vibrant colour of her hair. Iason took up a prowling stalk around the room, wearing his agitation like a cloak of disapproval. Persephone hovered in the centre of the room; the central cause of all of this.
Frustration and injustice ate away at her gut but her training ensured that her mask remained mostly in place. She wanted to stamp her foot and scream. She knew that Olena was understandably worried for Demetrius. She knew that Iason disapproved her of her choice to come here. But she did not regret it, even with the hindsight of the eventualities that had occurred.
It hadn't been the plan that her presence in Athenia was discovered. She hadn't been so foolish as to go in waving her arms and announcing her presence. But she had also had to see the state of the kingdom for herself. No report, no missive or watcher would have been able to do the justice of her own eyes. If she was to make a choice on whether to leave Athenia to its current future or plunge it into civil war, she could only make such a choice on the evidence seen with her own eyes. Not the hearsay and third-party judgements of others - however much she trusted the witnesses themselves.
And what she had seen had been dividing in the extreme.
On one hand, Iason's logic was unavoidable as he stated that Emilia and Elias had somehow decided to rule together. That political stability was now a possibility and they could simply leave for more peaceful shores and allow her sister and her new intended to rule as King and Queen.
Yet, on the other hand... Persephone had seen a starving people. She had seen the way the market stalls were running dry of goods, how there were fewer ships in the harbour than she had ever seen before. Trade was dying down and aside from a spectacle of charity that Rafail and Elias had devised, she saw no real intention or investment to correct the problem. The Stravos guards had circled the square, which meant that the Athenian Guard - who should have stood in their places - remained true to the legal monarch and had not followed any order to deploy.
Then there was Emilia. Emilia who had no-one to turn to, who Aimias had said had been the victim of Elias' advances for a while... who fell in love with a new handsome face every week. Emilia who, after any form of legal marriage would become of no use to Elias besides reproduction or removal to instil his own favoured Queen now that his kingship had been secured. Persephone felt sick with the very idea...
Emilia had had no-one to trust all these months. Not truly. And Elias could have taken advantage of that. She hadn't even known that Persephone was nearby. Which meant that Demetrius had failed to deliver her letter. Was perhaps in danger even now. Or worse.
Persephone's gaze looked towards Olena. Her gaze was sympathetic but her features remained calm and unemotive. She had been raised to be a princess - a Queen. The death of her guards, of her servants and those loyal to her was always a possibility and she could not become emotional over them all. Yet, she could be determined to ensure a correction of justice.
When Iason determined that she and he could leave Athenia - return to Taengea and live in peaceful harmony, Persephone's gaze was clear and her emotions back to a calm balance, the shock of the situation having subsided some in those few minutes.
"Or Elias has determined that he can rule with the securing of Emilia's hand." A scenario that she thought far more likely. Regardless of what Emilia might think of Elias' intentions, she could not believe that the man cruel enough to risk the peace between three powerful nations over a power play for the throne would care what happened to Emilia's impressionable little heart.
Persephone looked towards Ariadne and Hebe; a questioning look upon her face. As a retainer to the crown and royal blooded respectively, they would have been permitted within the palati, had they pushed the subject. Perhaps they had seen her sister, or knew more of whether the girl was truly enamoured with Elias. And just exactly what her cousin had in mind for the union between the two of them...
As the small group entered the room, they all took up their own posts. Olena fell to a chair that she clearly needed, looking starkly white against the vibrant colour of her hair. Iason took up a prowling stalk around the room, wearing his agitation like a cloak of disapproval. Persephone hovered in the centre of the room; the central cause of all of this.
Frustration and injustice ate away at her gut but her training ensured that her mask remained mostly in place. She wanted to stamp her foot and scream. She knew that Olena was understandably worried for Demetrius. She knew that Iason disapproved her of her choice to come here. But she did not regret it, even with the hindsight of the eventualities that had occurred.
It hadn't been the plan that her presence in Athenia was discovered. She hadn't been so foolish as to go in waving her arms and announcing her presence. But she had also had to see the state of the kingdom for herself. No report, no missive or watcher would have been able to do the justice of her own eyes. If she was to make a choice on whether to leave Athenia to its current future or plunge it into civil war, she could only make such a choice on the evidence seen with her own eyes. Not the hearsay and third-party judgements of others - however much she trusted the witnesses themselves.
And what she had seen had been dividing in the extreme.
On one hand, Iason's logic was unavoidable as he stated that Emilia and Elias had somehow decided to rule together. That political stability was now a possibility and they could simply leave for more peaceful shores and allow her sister and her new intended to rule as King and Queen.
Yet, on the other hand... Persephone had seen a starving people. She had seen the way the market stalls were running dry of goods, how there were fewer ships in the harbour than she had ever seen before. Trade was dying down and aside from a spectacle of charity that Rafail and Elias had devised, she saw no real intention or investment to correct the problem. The Stravos guards had circled the square, which meant that the Athenian Guard - who should have stood in their places - remained true to the legal monarch and had not followed any order to deploy.
Then there was Emilia. Emilia who had no-one to turn to, who Aimias had said had been the victim of Elias' advances for a while... who fell in love with a new handsome face every week. Emilia who, after any form of legal marriage would become of no use to Elias besides reproduction or removal to instil his own favoured Queen now that his kingship had been secured. Persephone felt sick with the very idea...
Emilia had had no-one to trust all these months. Not truly. And Elias could have taken advantage of that. She hadn't even known that Persephone was nearby. Which meant that Demetrius had failed to deliver her letter. Was perhaps in danger even now. Or worse.
Persephone's gaze looked towards Olena. Her gaze was sympathetic but her features remained calm and unemotive. She had been raised to be a princess - a Queen. The death of her guards, of her servants and those loyal to her was always a possibility and she could not become emotional over them all. Yet, she could be determined to ensure a correction of justice.
When Iason determined that she and he could leave Athenia - return to Taengea and live in peaceful harmony, Persephone's gaze was clear and her emotions back to a calm balance, the shock of the situation having subsided some in those few minutes.
"Or Elias has determined that he can rule with the securing of Emilia's hand." A scenario that she thought far more likely. Regardless of what Emilia might think of Elias' intentions, she could not believe that the man cruel enough to risk the peace between three powerful nations over a power play for the throne would care what happened to Emilia's impressionable little heart.
Persephone looked towards Ariadne and Hebe; a questioning look upon her face. As a retainer to the crown and royal blooded respectively, they would have been permitted within the palati, had they pushed the subject. Perhaps they had seen her sister, or knew more of whether the girl was truly enamoured with Elias. And just exactly what her cousin had in mind for the union between the two of them...
Hebe had never been to an inn before. She looked around curiously as she followed the Queen and her group inside. The innkeeper seemed to know the blonde woman and he gave her a key that led to a private room which was shut behind them. Now she finally got a look at the others. The woman with the red hair had been the one whose foot she had stepped on, and for some reason she looked as white as a sheet. She must be one of Queen Persephone’s retainers or perhaps a friend. All of the royal families were related to Hebe and the woman was definitely not one of them. She could be from a noble house, though.
The man was tall and handsome and appeared extremely protective of Persephone. His demeanor proclaimed him of high status, and Hebe’s eyes widened when he called her ‘my love.’ Were they married? Had she run away to be with him? She was Queen and could marry whomever she wished. Hebe’s earlier notion … that there had been a threat to her life … seemed more likely. The man mentioned leaving Emilia and Elias to rule the kingdom and going back to Taengea. So that was where Persephone had gone. He spoke of being protected by the King and his family, so he must be a royal. That explained his regal appearance.
Hebe felt like a fish out of water. She believed she had only been included because she had recognized the Queen and they feared that she would spread the news around. Persephone knew her quite well, as she was Emilia’s lady-in-waiting and resided mostly in the Palati. In the past, she had not been very good at keeping secrets, but she could keep this one because it was important. When the Queen looked in her direction, she could keep silent no longer. Hopefully, they would take her seriously despite her youth.
“Since you have been gone, Your Majesty, everything in Athenia has been deteriorating. The common people are suffering. They are so desperate for food that they banded together and raided the royal manors, tearing down walls to get inside. Lord Elias has basically been in charge of the kingdom and he doesn’t care for them at all. All he wants is power, which I think is why he wants to marry your sister.
“I haven’t seen my mistress much and she rarely speaks to me anymore. I think that Lord Elias is keeping her away from me and her other friends because we would tell her that he cares nothing for her at all. I am afraid for her, Your Majesty. Once he takes the throne, she’ll probably have an accident or be given poison that will make it look like she died of illness. He has probably seduced her into believing that he loves her."
Pausing for breath, she quickly continued. “Maybe the Princess will come to her senses if she knows that you’re back. I don’t think she wants to be Queen, but Lord Elias is convincing her otherwise. If you write a note to her, I can deliver it. I am known around the Palati and can access her chambers. For once, my age will work in my favor. Nobody will suspect a fourteen-year-old of passing messages back and forth.”
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Hebe had never been to an inn before. She looked around curiously as she followed the Queen and her group inside. The innkeeper seemed to know the blonde woman and he gave her a key that led to a private room which was shut behind them. Now she finally got a look at the others. The woman with the red hair had been the one whose foot she had stepped on, and for some reason she looked as white as a sheet. She must be one of Queen Persephone’s retainers or perhaps a friend. All of the royal families were related to Hebe and the woman was definitely not one of them. She could be from a noble house, though.
The man was tall and handsome and appeared extremely protective of Persephone. His demeanor proclaimed him of high status, and Hebe’s eyes widened when he called her ‘my love.’ Were they married? Had she run away to be with him? She was Queen and could marry whomever she wished. Hebe’s earlier notion … that there had been a threat to her life … seemed more likely. The man mentioned leaving Emilia and Elias to rule the kingdom and going back to Taengea. So that was where Persephone had gone. He spoke of being protected by the King and his family, so he must be a royal. That explained his regal appearance.
Hebe felt like a fish out of water. She believed she had only been included because she had recognized the Queen and they feared that she would spread the news around. Persephone knew her quite well, as she was Emilia’s lady-in-waiting and resided mostly in the Palati. In the past, she had not been very good at keeping secrets, but she could keep this one because it was important. When the Queen looked in her direction, she could keep silent no longer. Hopefully, they would take her seriously despite her youth.
“Since you have been gone, Your Majesty, everything in Athenia has been deteriorating. The common people are suffering. They are so desperate for food that they banded together and raided the royal manors, tearing down walls to get inside. Lord Elias has basically been in charge of the kingdom and he doesn’t care for them at all. All he wants is power, which I think is why he wants to marry your sister.
“I haven’t seen my mistress much and she rarely speaks to me anymore. I think that Lord Elias is keeping her away from me and her other friends because we would tell her that he cares nothing for her at all. I am afraid for her, Your Majesty. Once he takes the throne, she’ll probably have an accident or be given poison that will make it look like she died of illness. He has probably seduced her into believing that he loves her."
Pausing for breath, she quickly continued. “Maybe the Princess will come to her senses if she knows that you’re back. I don’t think she wants to be Queen, but Lord Elias is convincing her otherwise. If you write a note to her, I can deliver it. I am known around the Palati and can access her chambers. For once, my age will work in my favor. Nobody will suspect a fourteen-year-old of passing messages back and forth.”
Hebe had never been to an inn before. She looked around curiously as she followed the Queen and her group inside. The innkeeper seemed to know the blonde woman and he gave her a key that led to a private room which was shut behind them. Now she finally got a look at the others. The woman with the red hair had been the one whose foot she had stepped on, and for some reason she looked as white as a sheet. She must be one of Queen Persephone’s retainers or perhaps a friend. All of the royal families were related to Hebe and the woman was definitely not one of them. She could be from a noble house, though.
The man was tall and handsome and appeared extremely protective of Persephone. His demeanor proclaimed him of high status, and Hebe’s eyes widened when he called her ‘my love.’ Were they married? Had she run away to be with him? She was Queen and could marry whomever she wished. Hebe’s earlier notion … that there had been a threat to her life … seemed more likely. The man mentioned leaving Emilia and Elias to rule the kingdom and going back to Taengea. So that was where Persephone had gone. He spoke of being protected by the King and his family, so he must be a royal. That explained his regal appearance.
Hebe felt like a fish out of water. She believed she had only been included because she had recognized the Queen and they feared that she would spread the news around. Persephone knew her quite well, as she was Emilia’s lady-in-waiting and resided mostly in the Palati. In the past, she had not been very good at keeping secrets, but she could keep this one because it was important. When the Queen looked in her direction, she could keep silent no longer. Hopefully, they would take her seriously despite her youth.
“Since you have been gone, Your Majesty, everything in Athenia has been deteriorating. The common people are suffering. They are so desperate for food that they banded together and raided the royal manors, tearing down walls to get inside. Lord Elias has basically been in charge of the kingdom and he doesn’t care for them at all. All he wants is power, which I think is why he wants to marry your sister.
“I haven’t seen my mistress much and she rarely speaks to me anymore. I think that Lord Elias is keeping her away from me and her other friends because we would tell her that he cares nothing for her at all. I am afraid for her, Your Majesty. Once he takes the throne, she’ll probably have an accident or be given poison that will make it look like she died of illness. He has probably seduced her into believing that he loves her."
Pausing for breath, she quickly continued. “Maybe the Princess will come to her senses if she knows that you’re back. I don’t think she wants to be Queen, but Lord Elias is convincing her otherwise. If you write a note to her, I can deliver it. I am known around the Palati and can access her chambers. For once, my age will work in my favor. Nobody will suspect a fourteen-year-old of passing messages back and forth.”
They had moved quickly from the main events of the festival, but Ariadne still did not feel safe upon the streets. Luckily, they were not so far from an inn her family often stayed in when visiting the capital. The owner knew her well and her position. He also knew how to be quiet. That would be a safe place for them to go. Ariadne took control quickly, beckoning the group to follow her. When their party entered, she and the innkeeper shared a silent nod. She was lucky that her father liked to always be prepared and had prepped both daughter and innkeeper for a moment such as this.
They entered a back room, which would be entirely private. Ariadne mentioned this to the group and watched as they let go of some of the composure that had been guiding their way during the escape. Ariadne too, felt a moment of relief, but when she looked to her queen, she straightened back up. Persephone’s expression was exactly what she expected given the question. Ari had to admit that it had been a shock to her to hear the announcement as well. But she had been near Emilia when Elias had pulled her into his arms and the girl seemed far too comfortable. And yet, there was a hesitation. Ari didn’t entirely know what to make of the situation. Instead, she could only rely on what she had heard through friends at the palace.
Before she could attempt an explanation, the unfamiliar woman seemed to nearly collapse with some sort of realization and Iason spoke his opinion. Ari wanted desperately to hear what had happened these months while Persephone had been gone. There seemed to be something different between Persephone and Iason—Ariadne was surprised to see him, in fact. But he was here and offering opinions that Persephone seemed to consider, though Ariadne’s first reaction was surprise. Leave? How could Persephone leave? Not after all the Athenian people had been through since her disappearance. She would leave her sister to be with Elias and let him rule? What was Iason thinking? That was not her queen.
Yet, Ariadne kept her tongue. She was a ladies’ maid, even now, even when much had changed. Persephone’s answer gave her some hope that she wouldn’t just abandon them now. She still wanted more information about her sister. Ariadne allowed Hebe to speak first, as she was closer with Emilia. Perhaps she had some more information than Ari did.
Ari nodded as Hebe spoke, agreeing with her assessment of Athenia, even if the girl probably hadn’t seen much of it firsthand. Ariadne had been living with her father in Arcana since Persephone had been gone and had seen what Elias had been able to do, even there. It seemed worse in the capital, but it wasn’t great anywhere. Ariadne wasn’t sure how she felt about Hebe’s plan, but kept silent on that. She could speak to what she knew.
“I…I am no longer welcome at the palati,” Ariadne said, a slight hitch in her sentence. It felt sad to say, but the reality was that she was quite afraid. There had been a forceful removal and an implication that she should fear for her life if she were to return. “So I cannot say for certain what has transpired, but I much suspect that what Lady Hebe says is true. Word from my friends at the palati confirm as much. Princess Emilia is not often seen by others now. This was her first event in some time."
“I was able to speak with her briefly and she seems well, but unsure. She was attempting to seek some counsel from your Uncle Keikelius, but I was unable to ascertain what it was about. Perhaps it had something to do with Lord Elias, now that I know the whole truth of the matter.”
Ariadne hovered between feeling horrible for not knowing more about Emilia to pure joy at seeing Persephone again. She had held out hope that the queen was still alive, yet not hearing anything from her had been agony. The young woman longed to express that, but kept quiet, holding her hands together, ready to serve as always.
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They had moved quickly from the main events of the festival, but Ariadne still did not feel safe upon the streets. Luckily, they were not so far from an inn her family often stayed in when visiting the capital. The owner knew her well and her position. He also knew how to be quiet. That would be a safe place for them to go. Ariadne took control quickly, beckoning the group to follow her. When their party entered, she and the innkeeper shared a silent nod. She was lucky that her father liked to always be prepared and had prepped both daughter and innkeeper for a moment such as this.
They entered a back room, which would be entirely private. Ariadne mentioned this to the group and watched as they let go of some of the composure that had been guiding their way during the escape. Ariadne too, felt a moment of relief, but when she looked to her queen, she straightened back up. Persephone’s expression was exactly what she expected given the question. Ari had to admit that it had been a shock to her to hear the announcement as well. But she had been near Emilia when Elias had pulled her into his arms and the girl seemed far too comfortable. And yet, there was a hesitation. Ari didn’t entirely know what to make of the situation. Instead, she could only rely on what she had heard through friends at the palace.
Before she could attempt an explanation, the unfamiliar woman seemed to nearly collapse with some sort of realization and Iason spoke his opinion. Ari wanted desperately to hear what had happened these months while Persephone had been gone. There seemed to be something different between Persephone and Iason—Ariadne was surprised to see him, in fact. But he was here and offering opinions that Persephone seemed to consider, though Ariadne’s first reaction was surprise. Leave? How could Persephone leave? Not after all the Athenian people had been through since her disappearance. She would leave her sister to be with Elias and let him rule? What was Iason thinking? That was not her queen.
Yet, Ariadne kept her tongue. She was a ladies’ maid, even now, even when much had changed. Persephone’s answer gave her some hope that she wouldn’t just abandon them now. She still wanted more information about her sister. Ariadne allowed Hebe to speak first, as she was closer with Emilia. Perhaps she had some more information than Ari did.
Ari nodded as Hebe spoke, agreeing with her assessment of Athenia, even if the girl probably hadn’t seen much of it firsthand. Ariadne had been living with her father in Arcana since Persephone had been gone and had seen what Elias had been able to do, even there. It seemed worse in the capital, but it wasn’t great anywhere. Ariadne wasn’t sure how she felt about Hebe’s plan, but kept silent on that. She could speak to what she knew.
“I…I am no longer welcome at the palati,” Ariadne said, a slight hitch in her sentence. It felt sad to say, but the reality was that she was quite afraid. There had been a forceful removal and an implication that she should fear for her life if she were to return. “So I cannot say for certain what has transpired, but I much suspect that what Lady Hebe says is true. Word from my friends at the palati confirm as much. Princess Emilia is not often seen by others now. This was her first event in some time."
“I was able to speak with her briefly and she seems well, but unsure. She was attempting to seek some counsel from your Uncle Keikelius, but I was unable to ascertain what it was about. Perhaps it had something to do with Lord Elias, now that I know the whole truth of the matter.”
Ariadne hovered between feeling horrible for not knowing more about Emilia to pure joy at seeing Persephone again. She had held out hope that the queen was still alive, yet not hearing anything from her had been agony. The young woman longed to express that, but kept quiet, holding her hands together, ready to serve as always.
They had moved quickly from the main events of the festival, but Ariadne still did not feel safe upon the streets. Luckily, they were not so far from an inn her family often stayed in when visiting the capital. The owner knew her well and her position. He also knew how to be quiet. That would be a safe place for them to go. Ariadne took control quickly, beckoning the group to follow her. When their party entered, she and the innkeeper shared a silent nod. She was lucky that her father liked to always be prepared and had prepped both daughter and innkeeper for a moment such as this.
They entered a back room, which would be entirely private. Ariadne mentioned this to the group and watched as they let go of some of the composure that had been guiding their way during the escape. Ariadne too, felt a moment of relief, but when she looked to her queen, she straightened back up. Persephone’s expression was exactly what she expected given the question. Ari had to admit that it had been a shock to her to hear the announcement as well. But she had been near Emilia when Elias had pulled her into his arms and the girl seemed far too comfortable. And yet, there was a hesitation. Ari didn’t entirely know what to make of the situation. Instead, she could only rely on what she had heard through friends at the palace.
Before she could attempt an explanation, the unfamiliar woman seemed to nearly collapse with some sort of realization and Iason spoke his opinion. Ari wanted desperately to hear what had happened these months while Persephone had been gone. There seemed to be something different between Persephone and Iason—Ariadne was surprised to see him, in fact. But he was here and offering opinions that Persephone seemed to consider, though Ariadne’s first reaction was surprise. Leave? How could Persephone leave? Not after all the Athenian people had been through since her disappearance. She would leave her sister to be with Elias and let him rule? What was Iason thinking? That was not her queen.
Yet, Ariadne kept her tongue. She was a ladies’ maid, even now, even when much had changed. Persephone’s answer gave her some hope that she wouldn’t just abandon them now. She still wanted more information about her sister. Ariadne allowed Hebe to speak first, as she was closer with Emilia. Perhaps she had some more information than Ari did.
Ari nodded as Hebe spoke, agreeing with her assessment of Athenia, even if the girl probably hadn’t seen much of it firsthand. Ariadne had been living with her father in Arcana since Persephone had been gone and had seen what Elias had been able to do, even there. It seemed worse in the capital, but it wasn’t great anywhere. Ariadne wasn’t sure how she felt about Hebe’s plan, but kept silent on that. She could speak to what she knew.
“I…I am no longer welcome at the palati,” Ariadne said, a slight hitch in her sentence. It felt sad to say, but the reality was that she was quite afraid. There had been a forceful removal and an implication that she should fear for her life if she were to return. “So I cannot say for certain what has transpired, but I much suspect that what Lady Hebe says is true. Word from my friends at the palati confirm as much. Princess Emilia is not often seen by others now. This was her first event in some time."
“I was able to speak with her briefly and she seems well, but unsure. She was attempting to seek some counsel from your Uncle Keikelius, but I was unable to ascertain what it was about. Perhaps it had something to do with Lord Elias, now that I know the whole truth of the matter.”
Ariadne hovered between feeling horrible for not knowing more about Emilia to pure joy at seeing Persephone again. She had held out hope that the queen was still alive, yet not hearing anything from her had been agony. The young woman longed to express that, but kept quiet, holding her hands together, ready to serve as always.
Persephone stood with a calmer mind than when she had first entered the room. She did not to well with uncertainty and the feeling of impotence. It rankled her and set her fearful for those such things affected - like Emilia, like Iason. She looked to him now with an expression of reserved judgment, as her friends offered the details that the absence of had set her nerves on edge. Once she had more knowledge of the time she had been away - at least as far as Hebe saw it - her emotions but back within her control.
The news was not good, but it was information all the same. Something she could work with, investigate and further understand.
As Hebe spoke first, offering details of the way the common people had suffered and raised, Persephone’s carriage did not change, but her eyes hardened. It was clear to those that knew her well that she did not care for what she heard. She smiled softly at the girl when she offered to pass a note, but the idea was not one that she immediately jumped to.
Persephone did not doubt Hebe’s humility and honour. If asked to keep their presence a secret, she knew that the young Antonis girl would. But she was also fourteen and a young woman who had lived a comfortable life of luxury. If Elias saw fit to make her talk, she would give them up easily. And it would not be her fault that she did. Persephone was hesitant to involve her any more than she was already, having only brought her with them thus far to explain their need for secrecy.
When Ari spoke and permitted Persephone the chance to not immediately answer the suggestion of a letter, the Queen turned to look upon her friend with all the feelings that adrenaline had kept buried until now.
When she spoke of no longer being welcome at the palace, of how she had tried to keep a finger on events all the same, her heart went out to her. For Persephone knew how proud Ariadne had been in her position as a royal retainer.
Stepping forward, Persephone reached out and took hold of Ari’s hands in her own. Raised to give little to no touch, such a moment was equal to that of an embrace for Persephone. Her lips curled into a thankful smile and her eyes shone with what it meant to be reunited with the girl.
Persephone swallowed and looked around at the room and it’s occupants. So many people, who looked to her for so many purposes. The betrothed who wished her for his baroness wife in Taengea, the servant that wished for the return of her love, the friend that hoped for a safe mistress and the loyalist that wanted her to be queen. So many desires, and only one of herself.
Why was it that sitting in a palace behind a desk with paper and numbers made ruling so much easier than facing the victims of your decisions here and now.
Persephone has the sudden realisation that perhaps she was a coward at heart.
Swallowing, Persephone took a step back from her friend and stood straight. It was time that she made some form of decision.
“We must leave the city for now.” She began, looking to Iason, knowing that this was what he sought for now. She then directed her next words to Hebe. “You should return to your family, Lady Hebe. Your loyalty is appreciated and your silence of what you know would be even more so. Much longer away from your family and suspicions will form.” She smiled and reached to set a light hand upon the young girl’s shoulder. “Regardless of personal politics, I am sure that Elias of Stravos has taken every opportunity to paint me as the Traitor Queen. I’ll not have tarnish come to the name of Antonis after such a long relationship of friendship between our Houses. There may be a time when our friendship can come to fruition in this but it is not today.” Her fingers squeezed Hebe’s shoulder.
Turning to Ariadne, Persephone’s expression turned questioning. She could ask more from Ari after years of retainership and Ari’s age ensuring her mindful choices of action.
“Ariadne, do you believe that your Father may be able to investigate Stravos holds and the city fylaki?” As a military man, Hector could simply walk into such places and, so long as his words and actions didn’t raise suspicion there would be no reports of his presence. “There may be a man... tall, dark-haired and covered in scars. He was once a gladiator and answers to the name Demetrius. He is loyal to me and braved much for my sister and I.” Persephone glanced towards Olena and back. “If he is imprisoned, it would mean much to know where and if his condition and criminal allegations.”
Regardless of what she chose to do over the crown and Athenia as a whole, she would not leave Demetrius to suffer for his fealty.
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Persephone stood with a calmer mind than when she had first entered the room. She did not to well with uncertainty and the feeling of impotence. It rankled her and set her fearful for those such things affected - like Emilia, like Iason. She looked to him now with an expression of reserved judgment, as her friends offered the details that the absence of had set her nerves on edge. Once she had more knowledge of the time she had been away - at least as far as Hebe saw it - her emotions but back within her control.
The news was not good, but it was information all the same. Something she could work with, investigate and further understand.
As Hebe spoke first, offering details of the way the common people had suffered and raised, Persephone’s carriage did not change, but her eyes hardened. It was clear to those that knew her well that she did not care for what she heard. She smiled softly at the girl when she offered to pass a note, but the idea was not one that she immediately jumped to.
Persephone did not doubt Hebe’s humility and honour. If asked to keep their presence a secret, she knew that the young Antonis girl would. But she was also fourteen and a young woman who had lived a comfortable life of luxury. If Elias saw fit to make her talk, she would give them up easily. And it would not be her fault that she did. Persephone was hesitant to involve her any more than she was already, having only brought her with them thus far to explain their need for secrecy.
When Ari spoke and permitted Persephone the chance to not immediately answer the suggestion of a letter, the Queen turned to look upon her friend with all the feelings that adrenaline had kept buried until now.
When she spoke of no longer being welcome at the palace, of how she had tried to keep a finger on events all the same, her heart went out to her. For Persephone knew how proud Ariadne had been in her position as a royal retainer.
Stepping forward, Persephone reached out and took hold of Ari’s hands in her own. Raised to give little to no touch, such a moment was equal to that of an embrace for Persephone. Her lips curled into a thankful smile and her eyes shone with what it meant to be reunited with the girl.
Persephone swallowed and looked around at the room and it’s occupants. So many people, who looked to her for so many purposes. The betrothed who wished her for his baroness wife in Taengea, the servant that wished for the return of her love, the friend that hoped for a safe mistress and the loyalist that wanted her to be queen. So many desires, and only one of herself.
Why was it that sitting in a palace behind a desk with paper and numbers made ruling so much easier than facing the victims of your decisions here and now.
Persephone has the sudden realisation that perhaps she was a coward at heart.
Swallowing, Persephone took a step back from her friend and stood straight. It was time that she made some form of decision.
“We must leave the city for now.” She began, looking to Iason, knowing that this was what he sought for now. She then directed her next words to Hebe. “You should return to your family, Lady Hebe. Your loyalty is appreciated and your silence of what you know would be even more so. Much longer away from your family and suspicions will form.” She smiled and reached to set a light hand upon the young girl’s shoulder. “Regardless of personal politics, I am sure that Elias of Stravos has taken every opportunity to paint me as the Traitor Queen. I’ll not have tarnish come to the name of Antonis after such a long relationship of friendship between our Houses. There may be a time when our friendship can come to fruition in this but it is not today.” Her fingers squeezed Hebe’s shoulder.
Turning to Ariadne, Persephone’s expression turned questioning. She could ask more from Ari after years of retainership and Ari’s age ensuring her mindful choices of action.
“Ariadne, do you believe that your Father may be able to investigate Stravos holds and the city fylaki?” As a military man, Hector could simply walk into such places and, so long as his words and actions didn’t raise suspicion there would be no reports of his presence. “There may be a man... tall, dark-haired and covered in scars. He was once a gladiator and answers to the name Demetrius. He is loyal to me and braved much for my sister and I.” Persephone glanced towards Olena and back. “If he is imprisoned, it would mean much to know where and if his condition and criminal allegations.”
Regardless of what she chose to do over the crown and Athenia as a whole, she would not leave Demetrius to suffer for his fealty.
Persephone stood with a calmer mind than when she had first entered the room. She did not to well with uncertainty and the feeling of impotence. It rankled her and set her fearful for those such things affected - like Emilia, like Iason. She looked to him now with an expression of reserved judgment, as her friends offered the details that the absence of had set her nerves on edge. Once she had more knowledge of the time she had been away - at least as far as Hebe saw it - her emotions but back within her control.
The news was not good, but it was information all the same. Something she could work with, investigate and further understand.
As Hebe spoke first, offering details of the way the common people had suffered and raised, Persephone’s carriage did not change, but her eyes hardened. It was clear to those that knew her well that she did not care for what she heard. She smiled softly at the girl when she offered to pass a note, but the idea was not one that she immediately jumped to.
Persephone did not doubt Hebe’s humility and honour. If asked to keep their presence a secret, she knew that the young Antonis girl would. But she was also fourteen and a young woman who had lived a comfortable life of luxury. If Elias saw fit to make her talk, she would give them up easily. And it would not be her fault that she did. Persephone was hesitant to involve her any more than she was already, having only brought her with them thus far to explain their need for secrecy.
When Ari spoke and permitted Persephone the chance to not immediately answer the suggestion of a letter, the Queen turned to look upon her friend with all the feelings that adrenaline had kept buried until now.
When she spoke of no longer being welcome at the palace, of how she had tried to keep a finger on events all the same, her heart went out to her. For Persephone knew how proud Ariadne had been in her position as a royal retainer.
Stepping forward, Persephone reached out and took hold of Ari’s hands in her own. Raised to give little to no touch, such a moment was equal to that of an embrace for Persephone. Her lips curled into a thankful smile and her eyes shone with what it meant to be reunited with the girl.
Persephone swallowed and looked around at the room and it’s occupants. So many people, who looked to her for so many purposes. The betrothed who wished her for his baroness wife in Taengea, the servant that wished for the return of her love, the friend that hoped for a safe mistress and the loyalist that wanted her to be queen. So many desires, and only one of herself.
Why was it that sitting in a palace behind a desk with paper and numbers made ruling so much easier than facing the victims of your decisions here and now.
Persephone has the sudden realisation that perhaps she was a coward at heart.
Swallowing, Persephone took a step back from her friend and stood straight. It was time that she made some form of decision.
“We must leave the city for now.” She began, looking to Iason, knowing that this was what he sought for now. She then directed her next words to Hebe. “You should return to your family, Lady Hebe. Your loyalty is appreciated and your silence of what you know would be even more so. Much longer away from your family and suspicions will form.” She smiled and reached to set a light hand upon the young girl’s shoulder. “Regardless of personal politics, I am sure that Elias of Stravos has taken every opportunity to paint me as the Traitor Queen. I’ll not have tarnish come to the name of Antonis after such a long relationship of friendship between our Houses. There may be a time when our friendship can come to fruition in this but it is not today.” Her fingers squeezed Hebe’s shoulder.
Turning to Ariadne, Persephone’s expression turned questioning. She could ask more from Ari after years of retainership and Ari’s age ensuring her mindful choices of action.
“Ariadne, do you believe that your Father may be able to investigate Stravos holds and the city fylaki?” As a military man, Hector could simply walk into such places and, so long as his words and actions didn’t raise suspicion there would be no reports of his presence. “There may be a man... tall, dark-haired and covered in scars. He was once a gladiator and answers to the name Demetrius. He is loyal to me and braved much for my sister and I.” Persephone glanced towards Olena and back. “If he is imprisoned, it would mean much to know where and if his condition and criminal allegations.”
Regardless of what she chose to do over the crown and Athenia as a whole, she would not leave Demetrius to suffer for his fealty.
She stopped listening to the explanations of those around her, for there was little she cared about when it came to the comings and goings of anyone other than the Queen herself and Dima. Iason’s hand fell onto her shoulder, giving it a squeeze. She heard his words, but couldn’t process them. Because what he said meant that he hadn’t been able to fulfill his promise. So not only had the letter not reached the intended target, but the one person she wanted more than anything was most likely in danger.
Olena had spent some time in a more political circle, in another life. She tried to think back on that time, on what may have happened to him. But instead of political (which was far too complicated for her to try and work out), her mind started for the simple possibilities. Perhaps he was just injured and keeping low while he healed. The number of scars on his body felt like a fairly good indication of his ability to stay alive, which made her believe that he had just found himself too injured to return to her right away.
But the comment by Iason was slow to process. The man had become close to Iason, from what she could tell. There was a mutual trust there, one that Olena didn’t quite understand. And yet, that same trust had formed with the Queen and herself. Was she blind in the need for an ally of her own that she missed something? Perhaps she should not have been so trusting of their situation. But there was a debt to be paid.
She didn’t think the price would be so high.
The two newest arrivals spoke to the Queen, but Olena didn’t understand the words or their meaning. Anytime she was stressed, her mind seemed to regress into her past. Nothing but her native tongue would make sense, perhaps as a coping mechanism to deal with the chaos and brutality around her. Arms wrapped tightly around her, she was quietly praying. The words were to gods that she wasn’t sure existed, in a tongue no one else in the room spoke. They flowed at a whisper, begging anyone who could hear her to protect Dima and to bring him home. If anyone was looking at her, she didn’t notice. Instead, she continued to say the prayers that would matter to him.
He had to be alive. She would not accept otherwise.
It wasn’t until Persephone started speaking again that Olena went quiet, focusing on the words of her mistress. The plan was simple enough, and maybe along the way, they would find Dima hiding away, waiting for them. The idea brought her a bit of hope. But that hope came crashing down, suffocating her the moment the Queen said imprisoned. The sob that escaped her lips was guttural, one a wounded animal might make after a fatal blow. Hands coming up to her mouth, she tried to cover the sound that came with the realization.
He was a prisoner.
She would never get him back.
She missed the glance, missed the pity in the Queen’s eyes as she began to come to terms with exactly what it meant. They were to be married, and now? Now, she was without him again. All the fear and anxiety that she had come to terms with as an adult consumed her. She had lost him once, to a man so cruel that he took her virginity for himself without a second thought. She had lost him as a child, forced into a life without him. How could she do that again? How could she face a world without him?
Tears fell from her eyes, unable to stop the flow. Her sobs had turned silent, but they were deafening in her own ears. Her arms came around her, protective as she curled into herself. His name was on her lips, but she couldn’t bring herself to say it. For if she said it, Olena was terrified that it would make this even more real.
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She stopped listening to the explanations of those around her, for there was little she cared about when it came to the comings and goings of anyone other than the Queen herself and Dima. Iason’s hand fell onto her shoulder, giving it a squeeze. She heard his words, but couldn’t process them. Because what he said meant that he hadn’t been able to fulfill his promise. So not only had the letter not reached the intended target, but the one person she wanted more than anything was most likely in danger.
Olena had spent some time in a more political circle, in another life. She tried to think back on that time, on what may have happened to him. But instead of political (which was far too complicated for her to try and work out), her mind started for the simple possibilities. Perhaps he was just injured and keeping low while he healed. The number of scars on his body felt like a fairly good indication of his ability to stay alive, which made her believe that he had just found himself too injured to return to her right away.
But the comment by Iason was slow to process. The man had become close to Iason, from what she could tell. There was a mutual trust there, one that Olena didn’t quite understand. And yet, that same trust had formed with the Queen and herself. Was she blind in the need for an ally of her own that she missed something? Perhaps she should not have been so trusting of their situation. But there was a debt to be paid.
She didn’t think the price would be so high.
The two newest arrivals spoke to the Queen, but Olena didn’t understand the words or their meaning. Anytime she was stressed, her mind seemed to regress into her past. Nothing but her native tongue would make sense, perhaps as a coping mechanism to deal with the chaos and brutality around her. Arms wrapped tightly around her, she was quietly praying. The words were to gods that she wasn’t sure existed, in a tongue no one else in the room spoke. They flowed at a whisper, begging anyone who could hear her to protect Dima and to bring him home. If anyone was looking at her, she didn’t notice. Instead, she continued to say the prayers that would matter to him.
He had to be alive. She would not accept otherwise.
It wasn’t until Persephone started speaking again that Olena went quiet, focusing on the words of her mistress. The plan was simple enough, and maybe along the way, they would find Dima hiding away, waiting for them. The idea brought her a bit of hope. But that hope came crashing down, suffocating her the moment the Queen said imprisoned. The sob that escaped her lips was guttural, one a wounded animal might make after a fatal blow. Hands coming up to her mouth, she tried to cover the sound that came with the realization.
He was a prisoner.
She would never get him back.
She missed the glance, missed the pity in the Queen’s eyes as she began to come to terms with exactly what it meant. They were to be married, and now? Now, she was without him again. All the fear and anxiety that she had come to terms with as an adult consumed her. She had lost him once, to a man so cruel that he took her virginity for himself without a second thought. She had lost him as a child, forced into a life without him. How could she do that again? How could she face a world without him?
Tears fell from her eyes, unable to stop the flow. Her sobs had turned silent, but they were deafening in her own ears. Her arms came around her, protective as she curled into herself. His name was on her lips, but she couldn’t bring herself to say it. For if she said it, Olena was terrified that it would make this even more real.
She stopped listening to the explanations of those around her, for there was little she cared about when it came to the comings and goings of anyone other than the Queen herself and Dima. Iason’s hand fell onto her shoulder, giving it a squeeze. She heard his words, but couldn’t process them. Because what he said meant that he hadn’t been able to fulfill his promise. So not only had the letter not reached the intended target, but the one person she wanted more than anything was most likely in danger.
Olena had spent some time in a more political circle, in another life. She tried to think back on that time, on what may have happened to him. But instead of political (which was far too complicated for her to try and work out), her mind started for the simple possibilities. Perhaps he was just injured and keeping low while he healed. The number of scars on his body felt like a fairly good indication of his ability to stay alive, which made her believe that he had just found himself too injured to return to her right away.
But the comment by Iason was slow to process. The man had become close to Iason, from what she could tell. There was a mutual trust there, one that Olena didn’t quite understand. And yet, that same trust had formed with the Queen and herself. Was she blind in the need for an ally of her own that she missed something? Perhaps she should not have been so trusting of their situation. But there was a debt to be paid.
She didn’t think the price would be so high.
The two newest arrivals spoke to the Queen, but Olena didn’t understand the words or their meaning. Anytime she was stressed, her mind seemed to regress into her past. Nothing but her native tongue would make sense, perhaps as a coping mechanism to deal with the chaos and brutality around her. Arms wrapped tightly around her, she was quietly praying. The words were to gods that she wasn’t sure existed, in a tongue no one else in the room spoke. They flowed at a whisper, begging anyone who could hear her to protect Dima and to bring him home. If anyone was looking at her, she didn’t notice. Instead, she continued to say the prayers that would matter to him.
He had to be alive. She would not accept otherwise.
It wasn’t until Persephone started speaking again that Olena went quiet, focusing on the words of her mistress. The plan was simple enough, and maybe along the way, they would find Dima hiding away, waiting for them. The idea brought her a bit of hope. But that hope came crashing down, suffocating her the moment the Queen said imprisoned. The sob that escaped her lips was guttural, one a wounded animal might make after a fatal blow. Hands coming up to her mouth, she tried to cover the sound that came with the realization.
He was a prisoner.
She would never get him back.
She missed the glance, missed the pity in the Queen’s eyes as she began to come to terms with exactly what it meant. They were to be married, and now? Now, she was without him again. All the fear and anxiety that she had come to terms with as an adult consumed her. She had lost him once, to a man so cruel that he took her virginity for himself without a second thought. She had lost him as a child, forced into a life without him. How could she do that again? How could she face a world without him?
Tears fell from her eyes, unable to stop the flow. Her sobs had turned silent, but they were deafening in her own ears. Her arms came around her, protective as she curled into herself. His name was on her lips, but she couldn’t bring herself to say it. For if she said it, Olena was terrified that it would make this even more real.
When Persephone reached forward to take Ariadne’s hand, the girl felt at once that all would be right. Perhaps not in the immediate moment or even for some time, but one way or another things would work out. For her queen and dear friend was alive, after all. Many had given up hope, though Ariadne hadn’t. Still, it had been difficult to wait for a sign of Persephone that seemed like it wasn’t coming. She longed to know where her friend had been during her time away, but that would be a story for another moment. They were still in the thick of the capital and could not stay here for long. They must escape to somewhere else—and soon.
Ari squeezed Persephone’s hand in return, grateful to have her queen back even if this was not the ideal situation. She watched as the young woman looked about her, as if surveying her crew. These were her loyal supporters and they were only a small fraction of the people who wished to see her rule. Of that much, Ariadne was certain. There would be more support for her, should she once again declare her wish to rule. Until that time, she should be certain that she would be supported. Ariadne would do whatever she could for her mistress.
As Persephone spoke, Ariadne recognized the voice of a ruler. She had to be considering many different things, including this messenger that seemed to be of importance to the sitting woman, who looked on the verge of tears. Ari wanted to give the woman reassurance or comfort of some sort, even though she had no idea what had happened. She turned her attention back to Persephone as she relayed instructions, first to Lady Hebe before turning to her.
Ariadne listened thoughtfully to the request, believing it to not be unreasonable to ask of Hector. She nodded, noting the description given of the man in question. If there was something to find out, she felt confident that her father could get that information.
“Yes,” she replied, nodding. “My father should be able to investigate without raising any suspicion. He is still well regarded – and if not, he will find another way to get information. I will leave a note with the innkeeper, he can be trusted, and I am certain this will be a place my father will look for me. It will not be long before he finds the note.”
Ari glanced about for writing materials, finding them in a drawer nearby. She began penning a note in shorthand that would be familiar to Hector, but not others. It was something the two of them had developed over the years, writing back and forth so often while she was away. The request and the description was quick enough—she added in a personal apology for leaving the way she did. He would understand, but Ariadne felt anguished over the worry she was undoubtedly causing him. That was unfair, even though he would understand it. She could only hope that he would find her note soon so as to not worry further—at least, not about where she was. For Ariadne was certain that Hector was always worrying about something when it came to their family.
The note finished and their preparations to move underway, Ariadne approached the stranger, setting a gentle hand upon her shoulder. “This may not be much of a comfort now, but my father will do what he can to find information. There is hope.” At least for the information and perhaps a few other things, but Ariadne didn’t want to promise more than she should.
“Do we have a location in mind?” she asked. She knew this city fairly well, perhaps more than most others in this room. She could lead them through the best way out.
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When Persephone reached forward to take Ariadne’s hand, the girl felt at once that all would be right. Perhaps not in the immediate moment or even for some time, but one way or another things would work out. For her queen and dear friend was alive, after all. Many had given up hope, though Ariadne hadn’t. Still, it had been difficult to wait for a sign of Persephone that seemed like it wasn’t coming. She longed to know where her friend had been during her time away, but that would be a story for another moment. They were still in the thick of the capital and could not stay here for long. They must escape to somewhere else—and soon.
Ari squeezed Persephone’s hand in return, grateful to have her queen back even if this was not the ideal situation. She watched as the young woman looked about her, as if surveying her crew. These were her loyal supporters and they were only a small fraction of the people who wished to see her rule. Of that much, Ariadne was certain. There would be more support for her, should she once again declare her wish to rule. Until that time, she should be certain that she would be supported. Ariadne would do whatever she could for her mistress.
As Persephone spoke, Ariadne recognized the voice of a ruler. She had to be considering many different things, including this messenger that seemed to be of importance to the sitting woman, who looked on the verge of tears. Ari wanted to give the woman reassurance or comfort of some sort, even though she had no idea what had happened. She turned her attention back to Persephone as she relayed instructions, first to Lady Hebe before turning to her.
Ariadne listened thoughtfully to the request, believing it to not be unreasonable to ask of Hector. She nodded, noting the description given of the man in question. If there was something to find out, she felt confident that her father could get that information.
“Yes,” she replied, nodding. “My father should be able to investigate without raising any suspicion. He is still well regarded – and if not, he will find another way to get information. I will leave a note with the innkeeper, he can be trusted, and I am certain this will be a place my father will look for me. It will not be long before he finds the note.”
Ari glanced about for writing materials, finding them in a drawer nearby. She began penning a note in shorthand that would be familiar to Hector, but not others. It was something the two of them had developed over the years, writing back and forth so often while she was away. The request and the description was quick enough—she added in a personal apology for leaving the way she did. He would understand, but Ariadne felt anguished over the worry she was undoubtedly causing him. That was unfair, even though he would understand it. She could only hope that he would find her note soon so as to not worry further—at least, not about where she was. For Ariadne was certain that Hector was always worrying about something when it came to their family.
The note finished and their preparations to move underway, Ariadne approached the stranger, setting a gentle hand upon her shoulder. “This may not be much of a comfort now, but my father will do what he can to find information. There is hope.” At least for the information and perhaps a few other things, but Ariadne didn’t want to promise more than she should.
“Do we have a location in mind?” she asked. She knew this city fairly well, perhaps more than most others in this room. She could lead them through the best way out.
When Persephone reached forward to take Ariadne’s hand, the girl felt at once that all would be right. Perhaps not in the immediate moment or even for some time, but one way or another things would work out. For her queen and dear friend was alive, after all. Many had given up hope, though Ariadne hadn’t. Still, it had been difficult to wait for a sign of Persephone that seemed like it wasn’t coming. She longed to know where her friend had been during her time away, but that would be a story for another moment. They were still in the thick of the capital and could not stay here for long. They must escape to somewhere else—and soon.
Ari squeezed Persephone’s hand in return, grateful to have her queen back even if this was not the ideal situation. She watched as the young woman looked about her, as if surveying her crew. These were her loyal supporters and they were only a small fraction of the people who wished to see her rule. Of that much, Ariadne was certain. There would be more support for her, should she once again declare her wish to rule. Until that time, she should be certain that she would be supported. Ariadne would do whatever she could for her mistress.
As Persephone spoke, Ariadne recognized the voice of a ruler. She had to be considering many different things, including this messenger that seemed to be of importance to the sitting woman, who looked on the verge of tears. Ari wanted to give the woman reassurance or comfort of some sort, even though she had no idea what had happened. She turned her attention back to Persephone as she relayed instructions, first to Lady Hebe before turning to her.
Ariadne listened thoughtfully to the request, believing it to not be unreasonable to ask of Hector. She nodded, noting the description given of the man in question. If there was something to find out, she felt confident that her father could get that information.
“Yes,” she replied, nodding. “My father should be able to investigate without raising any suspicion. He is still well regarded – and if not, he will find another way to get information. I will leave a note with the innkeeper, he can be trusted, and I am certain this will be a place my father will look for me. It will not be long before he finds the note.”
Ari glanced about for writing materials, finding them in a drawer nearby. She began penning a note in shorthand that would be familiar to Hector, but not others. It was something the two of them had developed over the years, writing back and forth so often while she was away. The request and the description was quick enough—she added in a personal apology for leaving the way she did. He would understand, but Ariadne felt anguished over the worry she was undoubtedly causing him. That was unfair, even though he would understand it. She could only hope that he would find her note soon so as to not worry further—at least, not about where she was. For Ariadne was certain that Hector was always worrying about something when it came to their family.
The note finished and their preparations to move underway, Ariadne approached the stranger, setting a gentle hand upon her shoulder. “This may not be much of a comfort now, but my father will do what he can to find information. There is hope.” At least for the information and perhaps a few other things, but Ariadne didn’t want to promise more than she should.
“Do we have a location in mind?” she asked. She knew this city fairly well, perhaps more than most others in this room. She could lead them through the best way out.
Iason had so much to say, so much he wanted to ask and answers he sought that he knew he wouldn't be able to get with the group in the current state. Persephone was giving orders now and he would somehow wait until they were alone before he could express himself without openly contradicting his betrothed and their queen before them. This whole adventure had been reckless, and from what he had seen, the little he'd managed to take in while he was keeping watch of Persephone and Olena had shown him little amiss.
Bad harvests happened, and Elias had been the chosen heir to the king for years, decades if he knew his Athenian history correctly. A bad harvest was not a reason to start a civil war that would claim more lives than hunger. It was easily mitigated, he could write his father and ask for resources to be sent to the people who needed it most, could use this as an opportunity to build bridges between the countries and people. Until they heard what Emilia wanted, if she wanted to marry Elias and rule as his queen, or leave with them and go to Taengea, there was no need to fight.
For all he had been training and raised to be a soldier like the other men of royal and noble blood in Taengea, that he had his own unit of command, he had been taught by his father and uncle that violence was always the last resort. He would not be happy going to battle unless they had exhausted every single possible solution, and he would never agree to send any soldiers without leading them himself. There was no honor and nobility in sending men to fight without being willing to take up a weapon and be by their side. It wasn't something worth fighting for if he wasn't willing to risk everything with them.
With a stiff nod and lips pressed into a line so thin they nearly disappeared, he kept his silence as they prepared to leave, moving to help Olena stand from the chair she'd collapsed into. He'd carry her back if he had to, it was his fault that she had lost her love, and if they didn't bring Demetrius back he would be sure she was provided with the pension of a soldier's widow. Already their foolishness had lost one of their small number and aside from the word of two young women they had no promise of additional support. If it had come from their fathers, or brothers, men with titles who were able to command armies, he might have felt better, but hearing from girls who looked to be younger than his sisters was difficult to allow everyone around him to put their lives on.
Ariadne's question pulled the only word he allowed himself in the moment from his lips. "Aetea."
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Iason had so much to say, so much he wanted to ask and answers he sought that he knew he wouldn't be able to get with the group in the current state. Persephone was giving orders now and he would somehow wait until they were alone before he could express himself without openly contradicting his betrothed and their queen before them. This whole adventure had been reckless, and from what he had seen, the little he'd managed to take in while he was keeping watch of Persephone and Olena had shown him little amiss.
Bad harvests happened, and Elias had been the chosen heir to the king for years, decades if he knew his Athenian history correctly. A bad harvest was not a reason to start a civil war that would claim more lives than hunger. It was easily mitigated, he could write his father and ask for resources to be sent to the people who needed it most, could use this as an opportunity to build bridges between the countries and people. Until they heard what Emilia wanted, if she wanted to marry Elias and rule as his queen, or leave with them and go to Taengea, there was no need to fight.
For all he had been training and raised to be a soldier like the other men of royal and noble blood in Taengea, that he had his own unit of command, he had been taught by his father and uncle that violence was always the last resort. He would not be happy going to battle unless they had exhausted every single possible solution, and he would never agree to send any soldiers without leading them himself. There was no honor and nobility in sending men to fight without being willing to take up a weapon and be by their side. It wasn't something worth fighting for if he wasn't willing to risk everything with them.
With a stiff nod and lips pressed into a line so thin they nearly disappeared, he kept his silence as they prepared to leave, moving to help Olena stand from the chair she'd collapsed into. He'd carry her back if he had to, it was his fault that she had lost her love, and if they didn't bring Demetrius back he would be sure she was provided with the pension of a soldier's widow. Already their foolishness had lost one of their small number and aside from the word of two young women they had no promise of additional support. If it had come from their fathers, or brothers, men with titles who were able to command armies, he might have felt better, but hearing from girls who looked to be younger than his sisters was difficult to allow everyone around him to put their lives on.
Ariadne's question pulled the only word he allowed himself in the moment from his lips. "Aetea."
Iason had so much to say, so much he wanted to ask and answers he sought that he knew he wouldn't be able to get with the group in the current state. Persephone was giving orders now and he would somehow wait until they were alone before he could express himself without openly contradicting his betrothed and their queen before them. This whole adventure had been reckless, and from what he had seen, the little he'd managed to take in while he was keeping watch of Persephone and Olena had shown him little amiss.
Bad harvests happened, and Elias had been the chosen heir to the king for years, decades if he knew his Athenian history correctly. A bad harvest was not a reason to start a civil war that would claim more lives than hunger. It was easily mitigated, he could write his father and ask for resources to be sent to the people who needed it most, could use this as an opportunity to build bridges between the countries and people. Until they heard what Emilia wanted, if she wanted to marry Elias and rule as his queen, or leave with them and go to Taengea, there was no need to fight.
For all he had been training and raised to be a soldier like the other men of royal and noble blood in Taengea, that he had his own unit of command, he had been taught by his father and uncle that violence was always the last resort. He would not be happy going to battle unless they had exhausted every single possible solution, and he would never agree to send any soldiers without leading them himself. There was no honor and nobility in sending men to fight without being willing to take up a weapon and be by their side. It wasn't something worth fighting for if he wasn't willing to risk everything with them.
With a stiff nod and lips pressed into a line so thin they nearly disappeared, he kept his silence as they prepared to leave, moving to help Olena stand from the chair she'd collapsed into. He'd carry her back if he had to, it was his fault that she had lost her love, and if they didn't bring Demetrius back he would be sure she was provided with the pension of a soldier's widow. Already their foolishness had lost one of their small number and aside from the word of two young women they had no promise of additional support. If it had come from their fathers, or brothers, men with titles who were able to command armies, he might have felt better, but hearing from girls who looked to be younger than his sisters was difficult to allow everyone around him to put their lives on.
Ariadne's question pulled the only word he allowed himself in the moment from his lips. "Aetea."