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Marietta didn’t often get angry at her family. They were family, and she loved them more than anything in the whole wide world. But sometimes… they were infuriating. Right now the target of her wrath was Stelios. Stelios had borrowed something from Marietta ages ago. He kept promising he’d return it. Over and over again he’d tell his cousin that he’d send it over.
The jerk still hadn’t returned it!
Finally, Marietta caught from a window two men sparring. She realized one of those men was Stelios. She’d corner him now. She’d make him return it if it was the last thing she did! Marietta in her huff moved from her bedroom all the way to the training grounds between the two houses. “Stelios, you better keep that sword in your hand because I’m going to-”
Oh, my gods who was he sparring with? The man was handsome. He had no shirt on, and his chest was glistening with sweat that somehow was so attractive. And then here was Marietta. Angry with her cousin and crashing a friendly spar.
Her face couldn’t be redder. How embarrassing.
Stelios quickly understood what Marietta was upset about. With a quick apology to the Lord he excused himself to fetch the item Marietta had been wanting for ages. Oh right, a lord. Marietta vaguely remembered nobility from Taengea would be visiting. He was… a Prince’s son. So he had royal blood! Oh gods, and Marietta came down here like some unladylike swine threatening her cousin when Marietta couldn’t even hurt a fly. What would he think?
And she was quiet for too long. Each second she spent realizing who he was and how uncouth Marietta had been was a second spent in silence. She had to say something. Anything! Apologize, even! Marietta took a deep breath and bowed her head. “I-I’m sorry!” She apologized with a stutter. “I didn’t mean to interrupt your s-sparring. I had… just… not...that… yeah.” What was that ending?
She lied, her face could get redder because she felt the heat rise even more. Why was her words failing her now? This is what anger got you, a foul horrible situation. She should have let Stelios go on forever without ever returning it. It wasn’t even that important anyway! Gods, Marietta should have just kept her mouth shut.
Deep breaths. Introduce yourself. That’s what her sisters would do. Or ask about Taengea. Or… Marietta could talk about art and music! She loved that! Yeah, this would work. She could do that. “I-I”m Lady Marietta… of Antonis…” Well of course she was of Antonis. He was at the Antonis house. It’s not like Sofia or Chara or Elias was strolling up here onto Antonis training grounds. Gods, she should just run away right now. She was probably making him uncomfortable, the poor guy! He didn’t ask for this.
“I… You’re from Taengea right? I’ve always wanted to visit Taengea. I like art… and music and you have… a lot of it.” Shut your mouth, Marietta. At this point running away wouldn’t be considered rude, it would just be a mercy.
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Marietta didn’t often get angry at her family. They were family, and she loved them more than anything in the whole wide world. But sometimes… they were infuriating. Right now the target of her wrath was Stelios. Stelios had borrowed something from Marietta ages ago. He kept promising he’d return it. Over and over again he’d tell his cousin that he’d send it over.
The jerk still hadn’t returned it!
Finally, Marietta caught from a window two men sparring. She realized one of those men was Stelios. She’d corner him now. She’d make him return it if it was the last thing she did! Marietta in her huff moved from her bedroom all the way to the training grounds between the two houses. “Stelios, you better keep that sword in your hand because I’m going to-”
Oh, my gods who was he sparring with? The man was handsome. He had no shirt on, and his chest was glistening with sweat that somehow was so attractive. And then here was Marietta. Angry with her cousin and crashing a friendly spar.
Her face couldn’t be redder. How embarrassing.
Stelios quickly understood what Marietta was upset about. With a quick apology to the Lord he excused himself to fetch the item Marietta had been wanting for ages. Oh right, a lord. Marietta vaguely remembered nobility from Taengea would be visiting. He was… a Prince’s son. So he had royal blood! Oh gods, and Marietta came down here like some unladylike swine threatening her cousin when Marietta couldn’t even hurt a fly. What would he think?
And she was quiet for too long. Each second she spent realizing who he was and how uncouth Marietta had been was a second spent in silence. She had to say something. Anything! Apologize, even! Marietta took a deep breath and bowed her head. “I-I’m sorry!” She apologized with a stutter. “I didn’t mean to interrupt your s-sparring. I had… just… not...that… yeah.” What was that ending?
She lied, her face could get redder because she felt the heat rise even more. Why was her words failing her now? This is what anger got you, a foul horrible situation. She should have let Stelios go on forever without ever returning it. It wasn’t even that important anyway! Gods, Marietta should have just kept her mouth shut.
Deep breaths. Introduce yourself. That’s what her sisters would do. Or ask about Taengea. Or… Marietta could talk about art and music! She loved that! Yeah, this would work. She could do that. “I-I”m Lady Marietta… of Antonis…” Well of course she was of Antonis. He was at the Antonis house. It’s not like Sofia or Chara or Elias was strolling up here onto Antonis training grounds. Gods, she should just run away right now. She was probably making him uncomfortable, the poor guy! He didn’t ask for this.
“I… You’re from Taengea right? I’ve always wanted to visit Taengea. I like art… and music and you have… a lot of it.” Shut your mouth, Marietta. At this point running away wouldn’t be considered rude, it would just be a mercy.
Marietta didn’t often get angry at her family. They were family, and she loved them more than anything in the whole wide world. But sometimes… they were infuriating. Right now the target of her wrath was Stelios. Stelios had borrowed something from Marietta ages ago. He kept promising he’d return it. Over and over again he’d tell his cousin that he’d send it over.
The jerk still hadn’t returned it!
Finally, Marietta caught from a window two men sparring. She realized one of those men was Stelios. She’d corner him now. She’d make him return it if it was the last thing she did! Marietta in her huff moved from her bedroom all the way to the training grounds between the two houses. “Stelios, you better keep that sword in your hand because I’m going to-”
Oh, my gods who was he sparring with? The man was handsome. He had no shirt on, and his chest was glistening with sweat that somehow was so attractive. And then here was Marietta. Angry with her cousin and crashing a friendly spar.
Her face couldn’t be redder. How embarrassing.
Stelios quickly understood what Marietta was upset about. With a quick apology to the Lord he excused himself to fetch the item Marietta had been wanting for ages. Oh right, a lord. Marietta vaguely remembered nobility from Taengea would be visiting. He was… a Prince’s son. So he had royal blood! Oh gods, and Marietta came down here like some unladylike swine threatening her cousin when Marietta couldn’t even hurt a fly. What would he think?
And she was quiet for too long. Each second she spent realizing who he was and how uncouth Marietta had been was a second spent in silence. She had to say something. Anything! Apologize, even! Marietta took a deep breath and bowed her head. “I-I’m sorry!” She apologized with a stutter. “I didn’t mean to interrupt your s-sparring. I had… just… not...that… yeah.” What was that ending?
She lied, her face could get redder because she felt the heat rise even more. Why was her words failing her now? This is what anger got you, a foul horrible situation. She should have let Stelios go on forever without ever returning it. It wasn’t even that important anyway! Gods, Marietta should have just kept her mouth shut.
Deep breaths. Introduce yourself. That’s what her sisters would do. Or ask about Taengea. Or… Marietta could talk about art and music! She loved that! Yeah, this would work. She could do that. “I-I”m Lady Marietta… of Antonis…” Well of course she was of Antonis. He was at the Antonis house. It’s not like Sofia or Chara or Elias was strolling up here onto Antonis training grounds. Gods, she should just run away right now. She was probably making him uncomfortable, the poor guy! He didn’t ask for this.
“I… You’re from Taengea right? I’ve always wanted to visit Taengea. I like art… and music and you have… a lot of it.” Shut your mouth, Marietta. At this point running away wouldn’t be considered rude, it would just be a mercy.
Achilleas had not, at first, been thrilled about being despatched to Athenia to play chaperone to his younger sisters. Indeed, the very fact that his time was deemed so unimportant as to be seconded for such a purpose had irritated him beyond belief. Yet he had nodded and agreed because his father had asked it of him, and actually now he was here, it was proving a useful visit.
He’d spent the morning watching an impressive demonstration of a cavalry unit in the company of Commander Mateos of Antonis and had found the man surprisingly easy company. A little stiff and formal perhaps, but Achilleas was content enough for their talk to remain centred around the unit and the development plans Lord Mateos had for them. The Commander had been called away in the afternoon, and Achilleas had been graciously handed off to his brother - marginally less taciturn and a man of similarly military renown.
And also exceedingly competitive, the Mikaelidas lord was coming to realise as the casual sparring session tested him more than he had anticipated. He was being gracious in not wanting to end the bout prematurely, but as it turned out that, the Athenian was better than he had anticipated.
So much so that Achilleas was almost glad of a moments respite when some young woman appeared and began squawking at the Antonis Lord, leaving the taengean to hang back and look on in some mild amusement as he caught his breath.
He didn’t know who the girl was, not the sister because he was quite sure she was fair-haired but certainly familiar enough to give Lord Stelios a scolding. Achilleas only lifted his brows and nodded as the man excused himself and hurried off to fetch whatever it was he’d been told to fetch.
Achilleas moved to set down the practice sword, accepting a cool cloth from the servant nearby and using it to wipe the worst of the sweat from the back of his neck. He hadn’t realised the girl had remained until he turned back and found her standing there blushing like a peony in bloom. She started stammering out a greeting...no, it was an apology, and the Mikaelidas lord smiled faintly and nodded.
“It’s not a problem” he replied. “ In fact, I appreciate the opportunity to catch my breath. Lord Stelios is a capable fighter”
The greeting came next, and Achilleas inclined his head a fraction as he tried to recall the names of the Antonis family to place this Marietta. The other branch were all girls..so one of those he supposed. “ Achilleas of Mikaelidas”
She seemed rather ill at ease in his company, perhaps after that rather undignified entrance it was understandable but knowing nothing of the girl, he didn’t know exactly how he could help with that. Her next efforts did not much improve the situation either and he stared at her for a moment before realising he should answer.
“From Taengea, yes. Where music and art can be found certainly, amongst other things. You should visit. It has a lot to offer.” He glanced over her shoulder briefly in the direction Lord Stelios had headed, wondering exactly how far he’d had to go to retrieve whatever it was he owed to the young lady. He was not in sight yet, and so Achilleas was left to make small talk with the girl. “ You are fond of the arts then,Lady Marietta? Do you practice any specifically” He asked politely, blue gaze resting upon her face.
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Achilleas had not, at first, been thrilled about being despatched to Athenia to play chaperone to his younger sisters. Indeed, the very fact that his time was deemed so unimportant as to be seconded for such a purpose had irritated him beyond belief. Yet he had nodded and agreed because his father had asked it of him, and actually now he was here, it was proving a useful visit.
He’d spent the morning watching an impressive demonstration of a cavalry unit in the company of Commander Mateos of Antonis and had found the man surprisingly easy company. A little stiff and formal perhaps, but Achilleas was content enough for their talk to remain centred around the unit and the development plans Lord Mateos had for them. The Commander had been called away in the afternoon, and Achilleas had been graciously handed off to his brother - marginally less taciturn and a man of similarly military renown.
And also exceedingly competitive, the Mikaelidas lord was coming to realise as the casual sparring session tested him more than he had anticipated. He was being gracious in not wanting to end the bout prematurely, but as it turned out that, the Athenian was better than he had anticipated.
So much so that Achilleas was almost glad of a moments respite when some young woman appeared and began squawking at the Antonis Lord, leaving the taengean to hang back and look on in some mild amusement as he caught his breath.
He didn’t know who the girl was, not the sister because he was quite sure she was fair-haired but certainly familiar enough to give Lord Stelios a scolding. Achilleas only lifted his brows and nodded as the man excused himself and hurried off to fetch whatever it was he’d been told to fetch.
Achilleas moved to set down the practice sword, accepting a cool cloth from the servant nearby and using it to wipe the worst of the sweat from the back of his neck. He hadn’t realised the girl had remained until he turned back and found her standing there blushing like a peony in bloom. She started stammering out a greeting...no, it was an apology, and the Mikaelidas lord smiled faintly and nodded.
“It’s not a problem” he replied. “ In fact, I appreciate the opportunity to catch my breath. Lord Stelios is a capable fighter”
The greeting came next, and Achilleas inclined his head a fraction as he tried to recall the names of the Antonis family to place this Marietta. The other branch were all girls..so one of those he supposed. “ Achilleas of Mikaelidas”
She seemed rather ill at ease in his company, perhaps after that rather undignified entrance it was understandable but knowing nothing of the girl, he didn’t know exactly how he could help with that. Her next efforts did not much improve the situation either and he stared at her for a moment before realising he should answer.
“From Taengea, yes. Where music and art can be found certainly, amongst other things. You should visit. It has a lot to offer.” He glanced over her shoulder briefly in the direction Lord Stelios had headed, wondering exactly how far he’d had to go to retrieve whatever it was he owed to the young lady. He was not in sight yet, and so Achilleas was left to make small talk with the girl. “ You are fond of the arts then,Lady Marietta? Do you practice any specifically” He asked politely, blue gaze resting upon her face.
Achilleas had not, at first, been thrilled about being despatched to Athenia to play chaperone to his younger sisters. Indeed, the very fact that his time was deemed so unimportant as to be seconded for such a purpose had irritated him beyond belief. Yet he had nodded and agreed because his father had asked it of him, and actually now he was here, it was proving a useful visit.
He’d spent the morning watching an impressive demonstration of a cavalry unit in the company of Commander Mateos of Antonis and had found the man surprisingly easy company. A little stiff and formal perhaps, but Achilleas was content enough for their talk to remain centred around the unit and the development plans Lord Mateos had for them. The Commander had been called away in the afternoon, and Achilleas had been graciously handed off to his brother - marginally less taciturn and a man of similarly military renown.
And also exceedingly competitive, the Mikaelidas lord was coming to realise as the casual sparring session tested him more than he had anticipated. He was being gracious in not wanting to end the bout prematurely, but as it turned out that, the Athenian was better than he had anticipated.
So much so that Achilleas was almost glad of a moments respite when some young woman appeared and began squawking at the Antonis Lord, leaving the taengean to hang back and look on in some mild amusement as he caught his breath.
He didn’t know who the girl was, not the sister because he was quite sure she was fair-haired but certainly familiar enough to give Lord Stelios a scolding. Achilleas only lifted his brows and nodded as the man excused himself and hurried off to fetch whatever it was he’d been told to fetch.
Achilleas moved to set down the practice sword, accepting a cool cloth from the servant nearby and using it to wipe the worst of the sweat from the back of his neck. He hadn’t realised the girl had remained until he turned back and found her standing there blushing like a peony in bloom. She started stammering out a greeting...no, it was an apology, and the Mikaelidas lord smiled faintly and nodded.
“It’s not a problem” he replied. “ In fact, I appreciate the opportunity to catch my breath. Lord Stelios is a capable fighter”
The greeting came next, and Achilleas inclined his head a fraction as he tried to recall the names of the Antonis family to place this Marietta. The other branch were all girls..so one of those he supposed. “ Achilleas of Mikaelidas”
She seemed rather ill at ease in his company, perhaps after that rather undignified entrance it was understandable but knowing nothing of the girl, he didn’t know exactly how he could help with that. Her next efforts did not much improve the situation either and he stared at her for a moment before realising he should answer.
“From Taengea, yes. Where music and art can be found certainly, amongst other things. You should visit. It has a lot to offer.” He glanced over her shoulder briefly in the direction Lord Stelios had headed, wondering exactly how far he’d had to go to retrieve whatever it was he owed to the young lady. He was not in sight yet, and so Achilleas was left to make small talk with the girl. “ You are fond of the arts then,Lady Marietta? Do you practice any specifically” He asked politely, blue gaze resting upon her face.
He has a really nice voice.
There was something about that voice that intrigued Marietta. It was unlike her cousins. Each of them had a fairly commanding tone. It could be adopted from their father. The General had quite the dominating presence. Or perhaps the gods bestowed to them that voice. This man, however, was more dynamic. Maybe it was just the way Taengeans spoke. Marietta hadn’t gone there, but they seemed to be fairly dynamic people. Not like Athenians who were so… not.
But it was more unique than simply dynamic. It was melodic. It was attractive. It was… so unbelievably interesting that Marietta found herself more uncomfortable than she already was. For while this man was being polite, making small talk just as any kind person would her entrance coupled with the fact that the man was different, unknown, attractive, and interesting sounding person was… well a recipe for disaster for the socially awkward girl.
If Sanasa were here, she’d be flirting. She’d be testing the man to see if he was of any interest. If Evi was here, she’d be laughing and joking, bringing a smile to the man and wowing him with her eloquence. Hebe would be adorable. All of her sisters were better suited to this than Marietta. Oh gods, her cousin had better return quickly.
“I play the harp.” She responded to him. She can talk about this. Music, art, it was her passion. It was all she ever really thought about. “I… I paint too. I always wanted to visit the Scholeio in Taenega. And see your Temple of Apollo. I hear that it’s much more... magnificent as compared to ours.” Marietta was a firm believer that no mortal could create something completely worthy of the gods. The gods were perfect where they were imperfect. But to witness such beauty would still be something of a… blessing to Marietta.
He must be terribly bored of this conversation. Marietta chewed her lip. She should change the subject again. He didn’t actually care about her interests after all, why would he? He was just making polite conversation until her cousin came back and they could get back to sparring or whatever it was that military men liked doing.
Oh, that could be something Marietta asked! Fighting! She didn’t much like conflict herself, despite being brought up in a military family. It scared her. The idea of something… sharp piercing her skin. Or blood. Even the thought of blood made her feel ill. But surely that would be something that men enjoyed speaking about? And the more he spoke the less she had to speak. She just had to figure out what exactly to ask.
“Have you fought before- I mean, of course you’re fought I just witnessed you sparring. I mean… real battle. You seemed very skilled. My cousin looked like he was struggling against you. Had I been moments later he likely would have yielded.” Right, where was this going? “Is that too personal a question? I apologize, I’m forgetting myself…”
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He has a really nice voice.
There was something about that voice that intrigued Marietta. It was unlike her cousins. Each of them had a fairly commanding tone. It could be adopted from their father. The General had quite the dominating presence. Or perhaps the gods bestowed to them that voice. This man, however, was more dynamic. Maybe it was just the way Taengeans spoke. Marietta hadn’t gone there, but they seemed to be fairly dynamic people. Not like Athenians who were so… not.
But it was more unique than simply dynamic. It was melodic. It was attractive. It was… so unbelievably interesting that Marietta found herself more uncomfortable than she already was. For while this man was being polite, making small talk just as any kind person would her entrance coupled with the fact that the man was different, unknown, attractive, and interesting sounding person was… well a recipe for disaster for the socially awkward girl.
If Sanasa were here, she’d be flirting. She’d be testing the man to see if he was of any interest. If Evi was here, she’d be laughing and joking, bringing a smile to the man and wowing him with her eloquence. Hebe would be adorable. All of her sisters were better suited to this than Marietta. Oh gods, her cousin had better return quickly.
“I play the harp.” She responded to him. She can talk about this. Music, art, it was her passion. It was all she ever really thought about. “I… I paint too. I always wanted to visit the Scholeio in Taenega. And see your Temple of Apollo. I hear that it’s much more... magnificent as compared to ours.” Marietta was a firm believer that no mortal could create something completely worthy of the gods. The gods were perfect where they were imperfect. But to witness such beauty would still be something of a… blessing to Marietta.
He must be terribly bored of this conversation. Marietta chewed her lip. She should change the subject again. He didn’t actually care about her interests after all, why would he? He was just making polite conversation until her cousin came back and they could get back to sparring or whatever it was that military men liked doing.
Oh, that could be something Marietta asked! Fighting! She didn’t much like conflict herself, despite being brought up in a military family. It scared her. The idea of something… sharp piercing her skin. Or blood. Even the thought of blood made her feel ill. But surely that would be something that men enjoyed speaking about? And the more he spoke the less she had to speak. She just had to figure out what exactly to ask.
“Have you fought before- I mean, of course you’re fought I just witnessed you sparring. I mean… real battle. You seemed very skilled. My cousin looked like he was struggling against you. Had I been moments later he likely would have yielded.” Right, where was this going? “Is that too personal a question? I apologize, I’m forgetting myself…”
He has a really nice voice.
There was something about that voice that intrigued Marietta. It was unlike her cousins. Each of them had a fairly commanding tone. It could be adopted from their father. The General had quite the dominating presence. Or perhaps the gods bestowed to them that voice. This man, however, was more dynamic. Maybe it was just the way Taengeans spoke. Marietta hadn’t gone there, but they seemed to be fairly dynamic people. Not like Athenians who were so… not.
But it was more unique than simply dynamic. It was melodic. It was attractive. It was… so unbelievably interesting that Marietta found herself more uncomfortable than she already was. For while this man was being polite, making small talk just as any kind person would her entrance coupled with the fact that the man was different, unknown, attractive, and interesting sounding person was… well a recipe for disaster for the socially awkward girl.
If Sanasa were here, she’d be flirting. She’d be testing the man to see if he was of any interest. If Evi was here, she’d be laughing and joking, bringing a smile to the man and wowing him with her eloquence. Hebe would be adorable. All of her sisters were better suited to this than Marietta. Oh gods, her cousin had better return quickly.
“I play the harp.” She responded to him. She can talk about this. Music, art, it was her passion. It was all she ever really thought about. “I… I paint too. I always wanted to visit the Scholeio in Taenega. And see your Temple of Apollo. I hear that it’s much more... magnificent as compared to ours.” Marietta was a firm believer that no mortal could create something completely worthy of the gods. The gods were perfect where they were imperfect. But to witness such beauty would still be something of a… blessing to Marietta.
He must be terribly bored of this conversation. Marietta chewed her lip. She should change the subject again. He didn’t actually care about her interests after all, why would he? He was just making polite conversation until her cousin came back and they could get back to sparring or whatever it was that military men liked doing.
Oh, that could be something Marietta asked! Fighting! She didn’t much like conflict herself, despite being brought up in a military family. It scared her. The idea of something… sharp piercing her skin. Or blood. Even the thought of blood made her feel ill. But surely that would be something that men enjoyed speaking about? And the more he spoke the less she had to speak. She just had to figure out what exactly to ask.
“Have you fought before- I mean, of course you’re fought I just witnessed you sparring. I mean… real battle. You seemed very skilled. My cousin looked like he was struggling against you. Had I been moments later he likely would have yielded.” Right, where was this going? “Is that too personal a question? I apologize, I’m forgetting myself…”
The young woman could not have been much beyond 20, Achilleas guessed as he took more of a look at the girl. She was pretty, dark hair and doe eyes and nodded encouragingly when the Lady Marietta told him she played the harp. He was no musical aficionado but there was merit in having such an interest. And when she said that she painted as well he thought he had directed conversation rather nicely to let her talk about herself until her cousin returned.
Realising he was still holding onto the wet cloth, he balled it up and tossed it toward a bucket in the corner of the courtyard, clasping his hands behind his back in a military fashion. He couldn’t do much about his state of undress, nor the fine film of sweat that coated his skin despite the time of year. Lord Stelios had not been going easy on the visiting dignitary.
The Taengean was tall and built like a man who was familiar with physical training. The broad shoulders of a swordsman narrowed into a well-muscled torso, marked only by a scar here or there. His breathing had settled into something more regular after the previous exertions and he flashed the girl a brief smile as she mentioned his home once more.
“I haven’t been so fortunate as to explore your own temples, but I can assure you the Temple of Apollo in Taengea is worth a visit. I am biased of course, but I would say that there are many things worth seeing in my home kingdom.”
Indeed he had not yet had the opportunity to explore as he might have wished, having to play chaperone to his half-sisters for much of his time. Perhaps he could foist them off on this young lady for a while if he were lucky.
There seemed a slight lull, the girl falling silent and Achilleas hesitated and hoped he had not inferred anything lacking in Athenia. He was considering saying as much when the Antonis girl suddenly launched into a flurry of questions and apologies about..sparring? No, war.
Achilleas blinked at her as he tried to pick out what she was actually asking, and he thought he managed to extract the sentiment as she managed to tie herself in knots with her words.
“It’s fine” he reassured. “ I suppose you could say swordplay is my interest as yours is..painting?” Though of course, it was more than that. The Mikaelidas man had been trained in the arts of war since he was a boy, and had led the Taengean Lions since he was sixteen years old. “Your cousin has some skill though, Lady Marietta, you do him a disservice to assume otherwise..”
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The young woman could not have been much beyond 20, Achilleas guessed as he took more of a look at the girl. She was pretty, dark hair and doe eyes and nodded encouragingly when the Lady Marietta told him she played the harp. He was no musical aficionado but there was merit in having such an interest. And when she said that she painted as well he thought he had directed conversation rather nicely to let her talk about herself until her cousin returned.
Realising he was still holding onto the wet cloth, he balled it up and tossed it toward a bucket in the corner of the courtyard, clasping his hands behind his back in a military fashion. He couldn’t do much about his state of undress, nor the fine film of sweat that coated his skin despite the time of year. Lord Stelios had not been going easy on the visiting dignitary.
The Taengean was tall and built like a man who was familiar with physical training. The broad shoulders of a swordsman narrowed into a well-muscled torso, marked only by a scar here or there. His breathing had settled into something more regular after the previous exertions and he flashed the girl a brief smile as she mentioned his home once more.
“I haven’t been so fortunate as to explore your own temples, but I can assure you the Temple of Apollo in Taengea is worth a visit. I am biased of course, but I would say that there are many things worth seeing in my home kingdom.”
Indeed he had not yet had the opportunity to explore as he might have wished, having to play chaperone to his half-sisters for much of his time. Perhaps he could foist them off on this young lady for a while if he were lucky.
There seemed a slight lull, the girl falling silent and Achilleas hesitated and hoped he had not inferred anything lacking in Athenia. He was considering saying as much when the Antonis girl suddenly launched into a flurry of questions and apologies about..sparring? No, war.
Achilleas blinked at her as he tried to pick out what she was actually asking, and he thought he managed to extract the sentiment as she managed to tie herself in knots with her words.
“It’s fine” he reassured. “ I suppose you could say swordplay is my interest as yours is..painting?” Though of course, it was more than that. The Mikaelidas man had been trained in the arts of war since he was a boy, and had led the Taengean Lions since he was sixteen years old. “Your cousin has some skill though, Lady Marietta, you do him a disservice to assume otherwise..”
The young woman could not have been much beyond 20, Achilleas guessed as he took more of a look at the girl. She was pretty, dark hair and doe eyes and nodded encouragingly when the Lady Marietta told him she played the harp. He was no musical aficionado but there was merit in having such an interest. And when she said that she painted as well he thought he had directed conversation rather nicely to let her talk about herself until her cousin returned.
Realising he was still holding onto the wet cloth, he balled it up and tossed it toward a bucket in the corner of the courtyard, clasping his hands behind his back in a military fashion. He couldn’t do much about his state of undress, nor the fine film of sweat that coated his skin despite the time of year. Lord Stelios had not been going easy on the visiting dignitary.
The Taengean was tall and built like a man who was familiar with physical training. The broad shoulders of a swordsman narrowed into a well-muscled torso, marked only by a scar here or there. His breathing had settled into something more regular after the previous exertions and he flashed the girl a brief smile as she mentioned his home once more.
“I haven’t been so fortunate as to explore your own temples, but I can assure you the Temple of Apollo in Taengea is worth a visit. I am biased of course, but I would say that there are many things worth seeing in my home kingdom.”
Indeed he had not yet had the opportunity to explore as he might have wished, having to play chaperone to his half-sisters for much of his time. Perhaps he could foist them off on this young lady for a while if he were lucky.
There seemed a slight lull, the girl falling silent and Achilleas hesitated and hoped he had not inferred anything lacking in Athenia. He was considering saying as much when the Antonis girl suddenly launched into a flurry of questions and apologies about..sparring? No, war.
Achilleas blinked at her as he tried to pick out what she was actually asking, and he thought he managed to extract the sentiment as she managed to tie herself in knots with her words.
“It’s fine” he reassured. “ I suppose you could say swordplay is my interest as yours is..painting?” Though of course, it was more than that. The Mikaelidas man had been trained in the arts of war since he was a boy, and had led the Taengean Lions since he was sixteen years old. “Your cousin has some skill though, Lady Marietta, you do him a disservice to assume otherwise..”
Take a deep breath, Marietta. Marietta could hear her mother’s voice now. Slow your thoughts. One sentence at a time. Slowly.
Marietta’s mind was whirling. She was panicking. This man probably thought she was a freak. She probably thought that Athenians were weird. He probably regretted coming here to Athenia. Or maybe at least the Antonis. Was Marietta making it harder for the Antonis to keep contacts? Was her father or Uncle going to get horribly upset at her? Or Mateos and Stelios? Was Marietta-
Take a deep breath, Marietta. Slow your thoughts. One sentence at a time. Slowly.
Marietta took a deep breath. Her mother was right. When she was nervous, she got really nervous. She made mistakes. This was why she so often hid behind her sisters. But her sisters were not here right now. Marietta was here. She had to be calm.
“You’re right,” Marietta nodded. “My cousin is really good. I like to watch him sometimes.” Though when it gets really intense she would watch behind her fingers. “Swords are… terrifying. I admire people who can wield them well. They have so much bravery.” More bravery than Marietta would ever have, she almost added. But that would be awkward, wouldn’t it? No one liked to listen to someone as they bashed themselves in front of another.
Deep breath. It was hard to stay calm, though. The way he stood was so… masculine. It took all of Marietta’s willpower not to look at his chest. The way the sweat had just slid down his muscled abs…
Hiccup.
Marietta slowly raised a hand to her mouth. Dammit, she did it again. When the Lady was nervous or embarrassed or uncomfortable her body decided to hiccup. As if she wasn’t humiliating enough on her own. Her mind and body deemed it necessary to work against, the gods only knew why.
Ugh, I just want to get out of here. Marietta thought, eyes finally having left the man before her trying to plot her escape route. They were in a wide open area though, and Marietta couldn’t simply just walk away. Especially not with her cousin having disappeared to fetch what he borrowed…
“Excuse me,” She cleared her throat just as another hiccup escape. Her cheeks grew an even deeper shade of Scarlet. The man must think she’s insane. Marietta looked this way and that, eyes landing on a servant who had been standing on the side. “Wat-hic-er. Fetch me some water. You must be thirsty too, my Lord. You worked up… you worked up quite the sweat…” Hiccup. Her heart was pounding so hard she could hear it in her ears. If Zeus had mercy he would strike her down where she stood and end her torment. “Fetch the Lord some water as well.” She told the servant before he could even answer. Marietta fanned her warm face. Could Stelios move any slower?!
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Take a deep breath, Marietta. Marietta could hear her mother’s voice now. Slow your thoughts. One sentence at a time. Slowly.
Marietta’s mind was whirling. She was panicking. This man probably thought she was a freak. She probably thought that Athenians were weird. He probably regretted coming here to Athenia. Or maybe at least the Antonis. Was Marietta making it harder for the Antonis to keep contacts? Was her father or Uncle going to get horribly upset at her? Or Mateos and Stelios? Was Marietta-
Take a deep breath, Marietta. Slow your thoughts. One sentence at a time. Slowly.
Marietta took a deep breath. Her mother was right. When she was nervous, she got really nervous. She made mistakes. This was why she so often hid behind her sisters. But her sisters were not here right now. Marietta was here. She had to be calm.
“You’re right,” Marietta nodded. “My cousin is really good. I like to watch him sometimes.” Though when it gets really intense she would watch behind her fingers. “Swords are… terrifying. I admire people who can wield them well. They have so much bravery.” More bravery than Marietta would ever have, she almost added. But that would be awkward, wouldn’t it? No one liked to listen to someone as they bashed themselves in front of another.
Deep breath. It was hard to stay calm, though. The way he stood was so… masculine. It took all of Marietta’s willpower not to look at his chest. The way the sweat had just slid down his muscled abs…
Hiccup.
Marietta slowly raised a hand to her mouth. Dammit, she did it again. When the Lady was nervous or embarrassed or uncomfortable her body decided to hiccup. As if she wasn’t humiliating enough on her own. Her mind and body deemed it necessary to work against, the gods only knew why.
Ugh, I just want to get out of here. Marietta thought, eyes finally having left the man before her trying to plot her escape route. They were in a wide open area though, and Marietta couldn’t simply just walk away. Especially not with her cousin having disappeared to fetch what he borrowed…
“Excuse me,” She cleared her throat just as another hiccup escape. Her cheeks grew an even deeper shade of Scarlet. The man must think she’s insane. Marietta looked this way and that, eyes landing on a servant who had been standing on the side. “Wat-hic-er. Fetch me some water. You must be thirsty too, my Lord. You worked up… you worked up quite the sweat…” Hiccup. Her heart was pounding so hard she could hear it in her ears. If Zeus had mercy he would strike her down where she stood and end her torment. “Fetch the Lord some water as well.” She told the servant before he could even answer. Marietta fanned her warm face. Could Stelios move any slower?!
Take a deep breath, Marietta. Marietta could hear her mother’s voice now. Slow your thoughts. One sentence at a time. Slowly.
Marietta’s mind was whirling. She was panicking. This man probably thought she was a freak. She probably thought that Athenians were weird. He probably regretted coming here to Athenia. Or maybe at least the Antonis. Was Marietta making it harder for the Antonis to keep contacts? Was her father or Uncle going to get horribly upset at her? Or Mateos and Stelios? Was Marietta-
Take a deep breath, Marietta. Slow your thoughts. One sentence at a time. Slowly.
Marietta took a deep breath. Her mother was right. When she was nervous, she got really nervous. She made mistakes. This was why she so often hid behind her sisters. But her sisters were not here right now. Marietta was here. She had to be calm.
“You’re right,” Marietta nodded. “My cousin is really good. I like to watch him sometimes.” Though when it gets really intense she would watch behind her fingers. “Swords are… terrifying. I admire people who can wield them well. They have so much bravery.” More bravery than Marietta would ever have, she almost added. But that would be awkward, wouldn’t it? No one liked to listen to someone as they bashed themselves in front of another.
Deep breath. It was hard to stay calm, though. The way he stood was so… masculine. It took all of Marietta’s willpower not to look at his chest. The way the sweat had just slid down his muscled abs…
Hiccup.
Marietta slowly raised a hand to her mouth. Dammit, she did it again. When the Lady was nervous or embarrassed or uncomfortable her body decided to hiccup. As if she wasn’t humiliating enough on her own. Her mind and body deemed it necessary to work against, the gods only knew why.
Ugh, I just want to get out of here. Marietta thought, eyes finally having left the man before her trying to plot her escape route. They were in a wide open area though, and Marietta couldn’t simply just walk away. Especially not with her cousin having disappeared to fetch what he borrowed…
“Excuse me,” She cleared her throat just as another hiccup escape. Her cheeks grew an even deeper shade of Scarlet. The man must think she’s insane. Marietta looked this way and that, eyes landing on a servant who had been standing on the side. “Wat-hic-er. Fetch me some water. You must be thirsty too, my Lord. You worked up… you worked up quite the sweat…” Hiccup. Her heart was pounding so hard she could hear it in her ears. If Zeus had mercy he would strike her down where she stood and end her torment. “Fetch the Lord some water as well.” She told the servant before he could even answer. Marietta fanned her warm face. Could Stelios move any slower?!
The girl’s discomfort was making him uncomfortable, and Achilleas found himself willing the Lord Stelios to return sooner rather than later, an unusual turn of events when conversing with such a fair companion. But the conversation seemed more than a little stilted, the Taengean nodding along with her as she adjusted her appraisal of her cousin.
He tilted his head a little as she confessed to being terrified of swords, wondering how she got by in a family that was so steeped in military achievement but he did not comment to the fact, just smiled benignly. Bravery was a strange concept. If one practised and refined one’s skills enough then bravery became a secondary concept. When Achilleas fought, it was more instinct and muscle memory than it was him summoning any form of courage. But explaining such a thing to someone who did not train with weapons was a feat he didn’t much want to embark on.
He was considering what else might make for mild and pleasant conversation when the young lady suddenly hiccuped and clapped a hand over her mouth as if to prevent any further such involuntary noises escaping. The lord’s lips quirked a little at the edges - not quite a smile, but betraying his amusement none the less and he merely nodded when she begged pardon and turned to the servant who stood nearby only to hiccup again.
Now, Achilleas’ brows lifted the tiniest amount as he surveyed the girl. Her fair skin was awash with an almost impossibly vivid blush, and he didn't know if it were embarrassment or if there was something actually wrong. Glancing toward the servant and looking mildly alarmed, the Taengean took hold of the girl’s elbow and beckoned the servant with his other hand. “Did you not hear the young lady? Bring some water” he ordered, only to refocus on the Antonis girl as she said something else, and then it was his turn to be faintly embarrassed as he registered her words.
“Aah...yes” The Taengean glanced down at himself and then looking back to Mariette, dipped his head as he released the hold he had on her arm. “Forgive me... I’d not usually present myself so to a lady.” She most likely did not appreciate his hands upon her when in such a state, though he’d had little choice with a challenging sparring session ebing so interrupted. But then he remembered why he had offered her some support anyway, reaching out to take the cup of water that the servant proffered and holding toward Marietta as he eyed her with some concern “Are you...quite well? Would you like to sit down? You’re very flushed?”
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The girl’s discomfort was making him uncomfortable, and Achilleas found himself willing the Lord Stelios to return sooner rather than later, an unusual turn of events when conversing with such a fair companion. But the conversation seemed more than a little stilted, the Taengean nodding along with her as she adjusted her appraisal of her cousin.
He tilted his head a little as she confessed to being terrified of swords, wondering how she got by in a family that was so steeped in military achievement but he did not comment to the fact, just smiled benignly. Bravery was a strange concept. If one practised and refined one’s skills enough then bravery became a secondary concept. When Achilleas fought, it was more instinct and muscle memory than it was him summoning any form of courage. But explaining such a thing to someone who did not train with weapons was a feat he didn’t much want to embark on.
He was considering what else might make for mild and pleasant conversation when the young lady suddenly hiccuped and clapped a hand over her mouth as if to prevent any further such involuntary noises escaping. The lord’s lips quirked a little at the edges - not quite a smile, but betraying his amusement none the less and he merely nodded when she begged pardon and turned to the servant who stood nearby only to hiccup again.
Now, Achilleas’ brows lifted the tiniest amount as he surveyed the girl. Her fair skin was awash with an almost impossibly vivid blush, and he didn't know if it were embarrassment or if there was something actually wrong. Glancing toward the servant and looking mildly alarmed, the Taengean took hold of the girl’s elbow and beckoned the servant with his other hand. “Did you not hear the young lady? Bring some water” he ordered, only to refocus on the Antonis girl as she said something else, and then it was his turn to be faintly embarrassed as he registered her words.
“Aah...yes” The Taengean glanced down at himself and then looking back to Mariette, dipped his head as he released the hold he had on her arm. “Forgive me... I’d not usually present myself so to a lady.” She most likely did not appreciate his hands upon her when in such a state, though he’d had little choice with a challenging sparring session ebing so interrupted. But then he remembered why he had offered her some support anyway, reaching out to take the cup of water that the servant proffered and holding toward Marietta as he eyed her with some concern “Are you...quite well? Would you like to sit down? You’re very flushed?”
The girl’s discomfort was making him uncomfortable, and Achilleas found himself willing the Lord Stelios to return sooner rather than later, an unusual turn of events when conversing with such a fair companion. But the conversation seemed more than a little stilted, the Taengean nodding along with her as she adjusted her appraisal of her cousin.
He tilted his head a little as she confessed to being terrified of swords, wondering how she got by in a family that was so steeped in military achievement but he did not comment to the fact, just smiled benignly. Bravery was a strange concept. If one practised and refined one’s skills enough then bravery became a secondary concept. When Achilleas fought, it was more instinct and muscle memory than it was him summoning any form of courage. But explaining such a thing to someone who did not train with weapons was a feat he didn’t much want to embark on.
He was considering what else might make for mild and pleasant conversation when the young lady suddenly hiccuped and clapped a hand over her mouth as if to prevent any further such involuntary noises escaping. The lord’s lips quirked a little at the edges - not quite a smile, but betraying his amusement none the less and he merely nodded when she begged pardon and turned to the servant who stood nearby only to hiccup again.
Now, Achilleas’ brows lifted the tiniest amount as he surveyed the girl. Her fair skin was awash with an almost impossibly vivid blush, and he didn't know if it were embarrassment or if there was something actually wrong. Glancing toward the servant and looking mildly alarmed, the Taengean took hold of the girl’s elbow and beckoned the servant with his other hand. “Did you not hear the young lady? Bring some water” he ordered, only to refocus on the Antonis girl as she said something else, and then it was his turn to be faintly embarrassed as he registered her words.
“Aah...yes” The Taengean glanced down at himself and then looking back to Mariette, dipped his head as he released the hold he had on her arm. “Forgive me... I’d not usually present myself so to a lady.” She most likely did not appreciate his hands upon her when in such a state, though he’d had little choice with a challenging sparring session ebing so interrupted. But then he remembered why he had offered her some support anyway, reaching out to take the cup of water that the servant proffered and holding toward Marietta as he eyed her with some concern “Are you...quite well? Would you like to sit down? You’re very flushed?”
He touched me.
Marietta didn’t do well with getting touched, at least not by strangers. It made her even more nervous, more uncomfortable. His hand was on her elbow as if she was going to faint. Was she going to faint? She didn’t think she was. She had hiccups before, and nervousness, but she had never fainted from it. Did she sway? Did she swoon?
Marietta didn’t have much time to think about that because soon he was apologizing. What was he apologizing for? That didn’t make sense at all. “Y-You’re fine, My lord. You have nothing to apologize for.” Marietta blinked at him several times. She came down here, not the other way around. She interrupted them. He was probably flustered, and Marietta certainly added to the discomfort. He did nothing wrong.
It took all of Marietta’s will power to not gulp down the water like some poor dying of thirst. She forced herself to take measured sips, to not lose the last bit of dignity she had left. Are you… quite well? Would you like to sit down? The flames lighting her face had yet to cease. Did he think she was ill?
What was better? If she was ill he may pity her, and Marietta wasn’t looking for pity. But if he realized she was like this because she was socially inept well… that wasn’t necessarily how she wanted to be seen either. Her teeth dug a bit in the rim of the glass, unable to find her words. All she could do was meakly nod. Sitting would at least be… something else. She wouldn’t have to be standing and staring at him and his eyes… he had very nice eyes… A blue that was both dark and bright, something she would love to recreate with her paints. Beautiful…
Oh right, sitting. There was a bench not far from the pair, and when she sat down Marietta finally allowed herself to look away. She put down the glass and fanned her face. Finally, finally it seemed to cool down. Not that she wasn’t lost in the ocean of his eyes, she could… breathe.
I should apologize. That would only be right. But how did one apologize? That required speaking. Marietta just wanted to run. Or… sit here in silence. Silence was her friend. It was a blanket that she wrapped herself with when she wanted to be comforted. Talking was… well, one of her greatest fears. But he was a guest and she was, well… awful.
“I’m sorry,” Marietta said softly, staring at the ground. “I made you horribly uncomfortable, didn’t I? I… You were very polite, my Lord.” Of course he was. Being rude wouldn’t do him any good. She had no reason to point that out. “I… I think I’m better now. Thank you.” She glanced up at him at the end of her apology, chewing her lip nervously.
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He touched me.
Marietta didn’t do well with getting touched, at least not by strangers. It made her even more nervous, more uncomfortable. His hand was on her elbow as if she was going to faint. Was she going to faint? She didn’t think she was. She had hiccups before, and nervousness, but she had never fainted from it. Did she sway? Did she swoon?
Marietta didn’t have much time to think about that because soon he was apologizing. What was he apologizing for? That didn’t make sense at all. “Y-You’re fine, My lord. You have nothing to apologize for.” Marietta blinked at him several times. She came down here, not the other way around. She interrupted them. He was probably flustered, and Marietta certainly added to the discomfort. He did nothing wrong.
It took all of Marietta’s will power to not gulp down the water like some poor dying of thirst. She forced herself to take measured sips, to not lose the last bit of dignity she had left. Are you… quite well? Would you like to sit down? The flames lighting her face had yet to cease. Did he think she was ill?
What was better? If she was ill he may pity her, and Marietta wasn’t looking for pity. But if he realized she was like this because she was socially inept well… that wasn’t necessarily how she wanted to be seen either. Her teeth dug a bit in the rim of the glass, unable to find her words. All she could do was meakly nod. Sitting would at least be… something else. She wouldn’t have to be standing and staring at him and his eyes… he had very nice eyes… A blue that was both dark and bright, something she would love to recreate with her paints. Beautiful…
Oh right, sitting. There was a bench not far from the pair, and when she sat down Marietta finally allowed herself to look away. She put down the glass and fanned her face. Finally, finally it seemed to cool down. Not that she wasn’t lost in the ocean of his eyes, she could… breathe.
I should apologize. That would only be right. But how did one apologize? That required speaking. Marietta just wanted to run. Or… sit here in silence. Silence was her friend. It was a blanket that she wrapped herself with when she wanted to be comforted. Talking was… well, one of her greatest fears. But he was a guest and she was, well… awful.
“I’m sorry,” Marietta said softly, staring at the ground. “I made you horribly uncomfortable, didn’t I? I… You were very polite, my Lord.” Of course he was. Being rude wouldn’t do him any good. She had no reason to point that out. “I… I think I’m better now. Thank you.” She glanced up at him at the end of her apology, chewing her lip nervously.
He touched me.
Marietta didn’t do well with getting touched, at least not by strangers. It made her even more nervous, more uncomfortable. His hand was on her elbow as if she was going to faint. Was she going to faint? She didn’t think she was. She had hiccups before, and nervousness, but she had never fainted from it. Did she sway? Did she swoon?
Marietta didn’t have much time to think about that because soon he was apologizing. What was he apologizing for? That didn’t make sense at all. “Y-You’re fine, My lord. You have nothing to apologize for.” Marietta blinked at him several times. She came down here, not the other way around. She interrupted them. He was probably flustered, and Marietta certainly added to the discomfort. He did nothing wrong.
It took all of Marietta’s will power to not gulp down the water like some poor dying of thirst. She forced herself to take measured sips, to not lose the last bit of dignity she had left. Are you… quite well? Would you like to sit down? The flames lighting her face had yet to cease. Did he think she was ill?
What was better? If she was ill he may pity her, and Marietta wasn’t looking for pity. But if he realized she was like this because she was socially inept well… that wasn’t necessarily how she wanted to be seen either. Her teeth dug a bit in the rim of the glass, unable to find her words. All she could do was meakly nod. Sitting would at least be… something else. She wouldn’t have to be standing and staring at him and his eyes… he had very nice eyes… A blue that was both dark and bright, something she would love to recreate with her paints. Beautiful…
Oh right, sitting. There was a bench not far from the pair, and when she sat down Marietta finally allowed herself to look away. She put down the glass and fanned her face. Finally, finally it seemed to cool down. Not that she wasn’t lost in the ocean of his eyes, she could… breathe.
I should apologize. That would only be right. But how did one apologize? That required speaking. Marietta just wanted to run. Or… sit here in silence. Silence was her friend. It was a blanket that she wrapped herself with when she wanted to be comforted. Talking was… well, one of her greatest fears. But he was a guest and she was, well… awful.
“I’m sorry,” Marietta said softly, staring at the ground. “I made you horribly uncomfortable, didn’t I? I… You were very polite, my Lord.” Of course he was. Being rude wouldn’t do him any good. She had no reason to point that out. “I… I think I’m better now. Thank you.” She glanced up at him at the end of her apology, chewing her lip nervously.
It didn’t seem like the Lady Marietta was about to swoon or anything like it. Perhaps it was just a combination of embarrassment and hiccups. Achilleas relaxed a fraction, releasing his hold on her so he could offer the water to her instead and then politely averting his gaze when she drank. He’d misunderstood her motivations because she seemed confused by his apology.
“I just meant I must look a bit of a mess” he replied, before taking a drink of water himself and wondering again where the Lord Stelios had gotten to. When the young woman moved to sit, the Taengean trailed politely after her and stood near the end of the stone bench she sat upon. There was a silence as he wondered what he might say that would make her more comfortable. He had no other choice, really; he was a guest; he could not exactly excuse himself.
“I’m sorry, I made you horribly uncomfortable, didn’t I? I… You were very polite, my Lord .I… I think I’m better now. Thank you.”
There was a long moment that he stared at her and then Achilleas did smile, a flash of white teeth and a dimpling in his cheeks, the lord shaking his head slightly. “Shall you and I just spend our time apologising to one another then Lady Marietta?” he asked, the least solemn she had seen him so far. And as if the moment had somehow broken the awkwardness, the lord moved to sit beside her, cup cradled in his hands whilst his elbow rested upon his knees.
“Tell me then what errand you have so urgently dispatched your cousin upon? Nothing serious, I hope?”
It hadn’t struck him as so, but then the Athenian people as a whole could sometimes be hard to read. Achilleas himself did not fit the demonstrative nature associated with the Taengeans, but over the years he’d found some truth in the descriptions he’d heard of their neighbours. Measured and sometimes a little aloof, he’d been relieved to find the Lord Stelios neither of those things.
And this cousin seemed a sweet enough girl, if painfully shy. Achilleas could sympathise with that to some level: his own nature did not always lend itself to being gregarious, but the lord had learned - been forced to from a young age, really - to wear manners and propriety as armour to see him through such scenarios. As firstborn son to a Prince, there was little room for wallflowers. But it did mean he tread gently around those who suggested a similar demeanour.
“Don’t feel like you must wait unless you need to?” he said, offering her an out. “ I promise I shall bear no offence.”
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It didn’t seem like the Lady Marietta was about to swoon or anything like it. Perhaps it was just a combination of embarrassment and hiccups. Achilleas relaxed a fraction, releasing his hold on her so he could offer the water to her instead and then politely averting his gaze when she drank. He’d misunderstood her motivations because she seemed confused by his apology.
“I just meant I must look a bit of a mess” he replied, before taking a drink of water himself and wondering again where the Lord Stelios had gotten to. When the young woman moved to sit, the Taengean trailed politely after her and stood near the end of the stone bench she sat upon. There was a silence as he wondered what he might say that would make her more comfortable. He had no other choice, really; he was a guest; he could not exactly excuse himself.
“I’m sorry, I made you horribly uncomfortable, didn’t I? I… You were very polite, my Lord .I… I think I’m better now. Thank you.”
There was a long moment that he stared at her and then Achilleas did smile, a flash of white teeth and a dimpling in his cheeks, the lord shaking his head slightly. “Shall you and I just spend our time apologising to one another then Lady Marietta?” he asked, the least solemn she had seen him so far. And as if the moment had somehow broken the awkwardness, the lord moved to sit beside her, cup cradled in his hands whilst his elbow rested upon his knees.
“Tell me then what errand you have so urgently dispatched your cousin upon? Nothing serious, I hope?”
It hadn’t struck him as so, but then the Athenian people as a whole could sometimes be hard to read. Achilleas himself did not fit the demonstrative nature associated with the Taengeans, but over the years he’d found some truth in the descriptions he’d heard of their neighbours. Measured and sometimes a little aloof, he’d been relieved to find the Lord Stelios neither of those things.
And this cousin seemed a sweet enough girl, if painfully shy. Achilleas could sympathise with that to some level: his own nature did not always lend itself to being gregarious, but the lord had learned - been forced to from a young age, really - to wear manners and propriety as armour to see him through such scenarios. As firstborn son to a Prince, there was little room for wallflowers. But it did mean he tread gently around those who suggested a similar demeanour.
“Don’t feel like you must wait unless you need to?” he said, offering her an out. “ I promise I shall bear no offence.”
It didn’t seem like the Lady Marietta was about to swoon or anything like it. Perhaps it was just a combination of embarrassment and hiccups. Achilleas relaxed a fraction, releasing his hold on her so he could offer the water to her instead and then politely averting his gaze when she drank. He’d misunderstood her motivations because she seemed confused by his apology.
“I just meant I must look a bit of a mess” he replied, before taking a drink of water himself and wondering again where the Lord Stelios had gotten to. When the young woman moved to sit, the Taengean trailed politely after her and stood near the end of the stone bench she sat upon. There was a silence as he wondered what he might say that would make her more comfortable. He had no other choice, really; he was a guest; he could not exactly excuse himself.
“I’m sorry, I made you horribly uncomfortable, didn’t I? I… You were very polite, my Lord .I… I think I’m better now. Thank you.”
There was a long moment that he stared at her and then Achilleas did smile, a flash of white teeth and a dimpling in his cheeks, the lord shaking his head slightly. “Shall you and I just spend our time apologising to one another then Lady Marietta?” he asked, the least solemn she had seen him so far. And as if the moment had somehow broken the awkwardness, the lord moved to sit beside her, cup cradled in his hands whilst his elbow rested upon his knees.
“Tell me then what errand you have so urgently dispatched your cousin upon? Nothing serious, I hope?”
It hadn’t struck him as so, but then the Athenian people as a whole could sometimes be hard to read. Achilleas himself did not fit the demonstrative nature associated with the Taengeans, but over the years he’d found some truth in the descriptions he’d heard of their neighbours. Measured and sometimes a little aloof, he’d been relieved to find the Lord Stelios neither of those things.
And this cousin seemed a sweet enough girl, if painfully shy. Achilleas could sympathise with that to some level: his own nature did not always lend itself to being gregarious, but the lord had learned - been forced to from a young age, really - to wear manners and propriety as armour to see him through such scenarios. As firstborn son to a Prince, there was little room for wallflowers. But it did mean he tread gently around those who suggested a similar demeanour.
“Don’t feel like you must wait unless you need to?” he said, offering her an out. “ I promise I shall bear no offence.”
Marietta didn’t know if this said more about the… inadequacy of the male nobility in Athenia, but Lord Achilleas was unlike any other noble she had ever met. (Her cousins aside, of course.) He was incredibly kind and patient, even though Marietta had been a mess this entire time. In fact,… while Marietta would never admit this out loud (because what an insult that would be), he reminded her of a commoner. He was just as kind and patient as Captain Hector.
Stop that thinking right there, Marietta. She forced her brain not to go down that line of thinking. That was a dangerous path to go on. Gods, she could end up crushing on Lord Achilleas, and that would be disasterous. The poor man probably had suitors left and right. He wouldn’t need a girl from Athenia who couldn’t even speak right, adding to that list. She would just remember the kindness and just wistfully wish that the men around Athenia could take a leaf out of this lord’s book and learn to be less… well, infuriating. (Though, to be fair, she was mainly thinking about Lord Rafail… not that Eli was all that better.)
“Oh, no, nothing serious. In fact, he should be back by now.” Marietta furrowed her eyebrows. What was Stelios doing that took him so long? She wondered if he thought this was funny. Was her cousin that cruel? Perhaps not. He might have been stopped by someone or… did he lose it? Ugh, Stelios! He was the worst!
And then the Lord did the most generous thing a person could ever do. This was a kind man. This was a great man. If only more men like this existed, Marietta would be a happier person and not feel utter dread when talking to strangers. Lord Achilleas, bless his heart, gave Marietta a wonderful gift.
He gave her an out.
Marietta was socially awkward, but she wasn’t stupid. She knew what that was. And she wasn’t about to insist that she didn’t have to leave to keep propriety. This was an awkward situation. That much was very, very clear. She would take that out graciously and escape before the Lord feels he could never safely visit Athenia or the Antonis without risking running into Marietta.
“If that is the case… perhaps I should go find my cousin. It was a pleasure to meet you, My Lord. I hope you enjoy your stay in Athenia,” Marietta handed the water back to the servant now that her hiccups had calmed. Then, as quick as she was able without making it obvious that she was running away, she left the lord, and only when she turned the corner and was safely out of his sight did she lean against a wall. Knocking her head (gently) against it. Ugh, that was terrible. It was time she crawled in a hole and died.
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Marietta didn’t know if this said more about the… inadequacy of the male nobility in Athenia, but Lord Achilleas was unlike any other noble she had ever met. (Her cousins aside, of course.) He was incredibly kind and patient, even though Marietta had been a mess this entire time. In fact,… while Marietta would never admit this out loud (because what an insult that would be), he reminded her of a commoner. He was just as kind and patient as Captain Hector.
Stop that thinking right there, Marietta. She forced her brain not to go down that line of thinking. That was a dangerous path to go on. Gods, she could end up crushing on Lord Achilleas, and that would be disasterous. The poor man probably had suitors left and right. He wouldn’t need a girl from Athenia who couldn’t even speak right, adding to that list. She would just remember the kindness and just wistfully wish that the men around Athenia could take a leaf out of this lord’s book and learn to be less… well, infuriating. (Though, to be fair, she was mainly thinking about Lord Rafail… not that Eli was all that better.)
“Oh, no, nothing serious. In fact, he should be back by now.” Marietta furrowed her eyebrows. What was Stelios doing that took him so long? She wondered if he thought this was funny. Was her cousin that cruel? Perhaps not. He might have been stopped by someone or… did he lose it? Ugh, Stelios! He was the worst!
And then the Lord did the most generous thing a person could ever do. This was a kind man. This was a great man. If only more men like this existed, Marietta would be a happier person and not feel utter dread when talking to strangers. Lord Achilleas, bless his heart, gave Marietta a wonderful gift.
He gave her an out.
Marietta was socially awkward, but she wasn’t stupid. She knew what that was. And she wasn’t about to insist that she didn’t have to leave to keep propriety. This was an awkward situation. That much was very, very clear. She would take that out graciously and escape before the Lord feels he could never safely visit Athenia or the Antonis without risking running into Marietta.
“If that is the case… perhaps I should go find my cousin. It was a pleasure to meet you, My Lord. I hope you enjoy your stay in Athenia,” Marietta handed the water back to the servant now that her hiccups had calmed. Then, as quick as she was able without making it obvious that she was running away, she left the lord, and only when she turned the corner and was safely out of his sight did she lean against a wall. Knocking her head (gently) against it. Ugh, that was terrible. It was time she crawled in a hole and died.
Marietta didn’t know if this said more about the… inadequacy of the male nobility in Athenia, but Lord Achilleas was unlike any other noble she had ever met. (Her cousins aside, of course.) He was incredibly kind and patient, even though Marietta had been a mess this entire time. In fact,… while Marietta would never admit this out loud (because what an insult that would be), he reminded her of a commoner. He was just as kind and patient as Captain Hector.
Stop that thinking right there, Marietta. She forced her brain not to go down that line of thinking. That was a dangerous path to go on. Gods, she could end up crushing on Lord Achilleas, and that would be disasterous. The poor man probably had suitors left and right. He wouldn’t need a girl from Athenia who couldn’t even speak right, adding to that list. She would just remember the kindness and just wistfully wish that the men around Athenia could take a leaf out of this lord’s book and learn to be less… well, infuriating. (Though, to be fair, she was mainly thinking about Lord Rafail… not that Eli was all that better.)
“Oh, no, nothing serious. In fact, he should be back by now.” Marietta furrowed her eyebrows. What was Stelios doing that took him so long? She wondered if he thought this was funny. Was her cousin that cruel? Perhaps not. He might have been stopped by someone or… did he lose it? Ugh, Stelios! He was the worst!
And then the Lord did the most generous thing a person could ever do. This was a kind man. This was a great man. If only more men like this existed, Marietta would be a happier person and not feel utter dread when talking to strangers. Lord Achilleas, bless his heart, gave Marietta a wonderful gift.
He gave her an out.
Marietta was socially awkward, but she wasn’t stupid. She knew what that was. And she wasn’t about to insist that she didn’t have to leave to keep propriety. This was an awkward situation. That much was very, very clear. She would take that out graciously and escape before the Lord feels he could never safely visit Athenia or the Antonis without risking running into Marietta.
“If that is the case… perhaps I should go find my cousin. It was a pleasure to meet you, My Lord. I hope you enjoy your stay in Athenia,” Marietta handed the water back to the servant now that her hiccups had calmed. Then, as quick as she was able without making it obvious that she was running away, she left the lord, and only when she turned the corner and was safely out of his sight did she lean against a wall. Knocking her head (gently) against it. Ugh, that was terrible. It was time she crawled in a hole and died.