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Vangelis was pleased when Selene took his arm and then surprised at how foreign the sensation was. The two of them had spent a small time in each other’s company, to be sure. There were hesitating moments of it when he had last visited Taengea, then a week in which they had spent many hours together talking, and then nothing until this evening. For the closeness they each clearly felt in their friendship, there had been little to no time in which they were in close physical proximity. Vangelis strongly suspected that their notions of kinship came from their letter writing and their conversations - less so which kingdom they each happened to be inhabiting when the words were written or said.
As such, when they actually broke through the wall of distance or propriety and physical contact occurred - such as now, as he escorted her down the corridor with arms linked, it was a perfectly natural thing to offer and an entirely strange thing to experience. With was bizarre in its contradiction.
But Vangelis was not a great thinker on such topics and simply dismissed the frisson that ran over the skin of his forearm as the natural response to such alien attentions between the two of them, and walked calmly with her towards the dining hall that was their destination.
As he was significantly taller than the Lady Leventi - a woman who was of a height just breeching the taller side of average, whilst he towered at an impressive height for a man - Vangelis was forced to adjust his steps a little, shortening his strides so as to keep pace with her as she led them to where her uncle was waiting for them. Such a change in step made the walk slower than natural for him but it wasn't unpleasant.
As they walked, Selene seemed almost to be speaking to herself, commenting on her uncle; that he was a good host and yet might be impertinent in his choices of query or on her own feelings about being glad for his attendance. He wondered, idly, if his quiet was making her uncomfortable to cause her to chatter in such a way.
It was as they reached the doors to the dining hall that Selene offered the final titbit of enjoying his companionship. A statement of such touching honesty that Vangelis didn't quite know what to do with it. People were honoured by his presence, thankful for his presence - even blessed by it some would say. But no-one had ever missed it or enjoyed it for what it was. The former reactions were that of a civilian to a prince. Selene's were of a more personal nature. One that he felt warm him a little from the inside out.
As if she were hoping her compliment of his company was enough to balance out her prophecy of her uncle's sharpness - listing one directly after the other - Vangelis reacted on pure instinct, seeking to calm her nerves and return her feelings of companionship...
He winked at her.
And before either of them could react to such a lightning quick, teasing gesture, Vangelis was pushing open the door to the dining chamber, escorting her through it as was proper, not a hint of the informal Vangelis about him.
Bowing as he escorted the woman through the door and then looking up to inspect the room around him, Vangelis found the dining hall to be very similar to that back home. Panelled in dark wood, polished to a high shine, with candle brackets around the walls and hanging from the ceiling, the entire room had a cosy and yet formal feel. Masculine and defiant. Which summed up the Kotas manor to a fine point.
There was only a single set of furniture in the room - that of a long table and chairs in the blackest of woods, and shinier than the silver utensils lining its surface. Down the centre of the table ran a trim of white cloth with gold place settings and silver cutlery placed either side before six place settings.
As the table was so large, the set-up had been arranged at one end, with Fotios at the head of the table, his wife to his left hand-side. The chair to his right was left markedly absence, as was that beside the lovely Lady Eirini. The two final chairs at the opposite end to their father, already had their patrons standing behind them - the Ladies Agape and Melina.
Clearly expected to take the seat to the right hand of the Head of the House, Vangelis saw no reason to argue as it was a place of honour within the mansion and stood behind his seat willingly, after escorting Lady Selene to the open spot beside the Lady Eirini.
Upon Fotios's indication that everyone be seated, Vangelis paused only long enough to remove his himation and one of the belts around his waist - the one that sported the sheath for his long-knife. While his other, hidden weapons, would not spoil the atmosphere of dinner, it was a simple fact that it was difficult to sit down when still wearing your blade at your hip. Plus, his mother had never allowed weapons at the dinner table.
Quick and efficient from years of practice, Vangelis removed and then refastened the belt, in order to hook it over one of the top pommels of the seat, before draping his himation over the leather scabbard and shining steel hilt. Dressed now in only his sleeveless, black chiton, the golden cuffs around his wrists, the leather bracelet around his upper arm, Vangelis felt a little exposed, used to linen shirts. It concerned him little however, along with any reactions to the angry looking laceration over his bicep - the one still healing from the cave in during the storm - and the mottled red pattern over his opposing shoulder - sparks and ash pieces that had given him tiny, minor burns over his skin during the fire. Such marks would vanish in time and Vangelis was always healing from one injury or another - he had stopping paying his appearance in such matters any heed long ago.
Upon being served a wine that his host assured him was of the highest calibre, Vangelis said nothing regarding his preference not to drink and simply waited, once more, for his host to sip before himself, before taking a dutiful mouthful of the sharp wine.
When the meal was ordered to be brought out, Vangelis was thankful that Lord Fotios was clearly familiar with dining with members of royalty - foreign or otherwise - as the servant who brought his plate, brought a small empty one for themselves. Vangelis reacted little as the young man took up a set of his own utensils - iron rather than silver - and cut away a small portion of each item on Vangelis plate, in view of him for confirmation. Transferring those pieces to the empty plate, the young man then took a step back with his miniscule version of Vangelis' meal and quickly ate everything there in a single swallow that couldn't be more than half a mouthful.
Lord Fotios continued adequate and passive conversation regarding Vangelis' journey - a topic that Vangelis contributed only enough to for it to continue - as if everyone in the room wasn't awkwardly waiting to see if the young boy a few steps behind Vangelis' chair to drop dead of poison.
The two men in the room gave no reaction to the true purpose of urbane conversation that was designed to delay the beginning of the meal without oddity, while Agape and Eirini seemed to be having a conversation with their eyes that Vangelis wasn't interested in dissecting. The Lady Melina, who sat beside him appeared to be intensely interested in the edge of her plate and towards Selene, Vangelis tried to keep his attention proper, rather than sending wistful glances her way like a co-conspirator.
When Vangelis had decided to wait long enough to see to any potential negative effects from his food, he picked up the first of his utensils and speared a piece of root vegetable, beginning the meal for everyone else and facilitating Lord Fotios in waving away the serving boy. The process would continue for each round of dishes, but Vangelis held no interest in the formality. It was a procedure that had been carried out at every meal he had ever engaged in outside of his family home. At this point, he barely noticed it.
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May 26, 2019 22:09:06 GMT
Posted In Long Awaited on May 26, 2019 22:09:06 GMT
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Vangelis was pleased when Selene took his arm and then surprised at how foreign the sensation was. The two of them had spent a small time in each other’s company, to be sure. There were hesitating moments of it when he had last visited Taengea, then a week in which they had spent many hours together talking, and then nothing until this evening. For the closeness they each clearly felt in their friendship, there had been little to no time in which they were in close physical proximity. Vangelis strongly suspected that their notions of kinship came from their letter writing and their conversations - less so which kingdom they each happened to be inhabiting when the words were written or said.
As such, when they actually broke through the wall of distance or propriety and physical contact occurred - such as now, as he escorted her down the corridor with arms linked, it was a perfectly natural thing to offer and an entirely strange thing to experience. With was bizarre in its contradiction.
But Vangelis was not a great thinker on such topics and simply dismissed the frisson that ran over the skin of his forearm as the natural response to such alien attentions between the two of them, and walked calmly with her towards the dining hall that was their destination.
As he was significantly taller than the Lady Leventi - a woman who was of a height just breeching the taller side of average, whilst he towered at an impressive height for a man - Vangelis was forced to adjust his steps a little, shortening his strides so as to keep pace with her as she led them to where her uncle was waiting for them. Such a change in step made the walk slower than natural for him but it wasn't unpleasant.
As they walked, Selene seemed almost to be speaking to herself, commenting on her uncle; that he was a good host and yet might be impertinent in his choices of query or on her own feelings about being glad for his attendance. He wondered, idly, if his quiet was making her uncomfortable to cause her to chatter in such a way.
It was as they reached the doors to the dining hall that Selene offered the final titbit of enjoying his companionship. A statement of such touching honesty that Vangelis didn't quite know what to do with it. People were honoured by his presence, thankful for his presence - even blessed by it some would say. But no-one had ever missed it or enjoyed it for what it was. The former reactions were that of a civilian to a prince. Selene's were of a more personal nature. One that he felt warm him a little from the inside out.
As if she were hoping her compliment of his company was enough to balance out her prophecy of her uncle's sharpness - listing one directly after the other - Vangelis reacted on pure instinct, seeking to calm her nerves and return her feelings of companionship...
He winked at her.
And before either of them could react to such a lightning quick, teasing gesture, Vangelis was pushing open the door to the dining chamber, escorting her through it as was proper, not a hint of the informal Vangelis about him.
Bowing as he escorted the woman through the door and then looking up to inspect the room around him, Vangelis found the dining hall to be very similar to that back home. Panelled in dark wood, polished to a high shine, with candle brackets around the walls and hanging from the ceiling, the entire room had a cosy and yet formal feel. Masculine and defiant. Which summed up the Kotas manor to a fine point.
There was only a single set of furniture in the room - that of a long table and chairs in the blackest of woods, and shinier than the silver utensils lining its surface. Down the centre of the table ran a trim of white cloth with gold place settings and silver cutlery placed either side before six place settings.
As the table was so large, the set-up had been arranged at one end, with Fotios at the head of the table, his wife to his left hand-side. The chair to his right was left markedly absence, as was that beside the lovely Lady Eirini. The two final chairs at the opposite end to their father, already had their patrons standing behind them - the Ladies Agape and Melina.
Clearly expected to take the seat to the right hand of the Head of the House, Vangelis saw no reason to argue as it was a place of honour within the mansion and stood behind his seat willingly, after escorting Lady Selene to the open spot beside the Lady Eirini.
Upon Fotios's indication that everyone be seated, Vangelis paused only long enough to remove his himation and one of the belts around his waist - the one that sported the sheath for his long-knife. While his other, hidden weapons, would not spoil the atmosphere of dinner, it was a simple fact that it was difficult to sit down when still wearing your blade at your hip. Plus, his mother had never allowed weapons at the dinner table.
Quick and efficient from years of practice, Vangelis removed and then refastened the belt, in order to hook it over one of the top pommels of the seat, before draping his himation over the leather scabbard and shining steel hilt. Dressed now in only his sleeveless, black chiton, the golden cuffs around his wrists, the leather bracelet around his upper arm, Vangelis felt a little exposed, used to linen shirts. It concerned him little however, along with any reactions to the angry looking laceration over his bicep - the one still healing from the cave in during the storm - and the mottled red pattern over his opposing shoulder - sparks and ash pieces that had given him tiny, minor burns over his skin during the fire. Such marks would vanish in time and Vangelis was always healing from one injury or another - he had stopping paying his appearance in such matters any heed long ago.
Upon being served a wine that his host assured him was of the highest calibre, Vangelis said nothing regarding his preference not to drink and simply waited, once more, for his host to sip before himself, before taking a dutiful mouthful of the sharp wine.
When the meal was ordered to be brought out, Vangelis was thankful that Lord Fotios was clearly familiar with dining with members of royalty - foreign or otherwise - as the servant who brought his plate, brought a small empty one for themselves. Vangelis reacted little as the young man took up a set of his own utensils - iron rather than silver - and cut away a small portion of each item on Vangelis plate, in view of him for confirmation. Transferring those pieces to the empty plate, the young man then took a step back with his miniscule version of Vangelis' meal and quickly ate everything there in a single swallow that couldn't be more than half a mouthful.
Lord Fotios continued adequate and passive conversation regarding Vangelis' journey - a topic that Vangelis contributed only enough to for it to continue - as if everyone in the room wasn't awkwardly waiting to see if the young boy a few steps behind Vangelis' chair to drop dead of poison.
The two men in the room gave no reaction to the true purpose of urbane conversation that was designed to delay the beginning of the meal without oddity, while Agape and Eirini seemed to be having a conversation with their eyes that Vangelis wasn't interested in dissecting. The Lady Melina, who sat beside him appeared to be intensely interested in the edge of her plate and towards Selene, Vangelis tried to keep his attention proper, rather than sending wistful glances her way like a co-conspirator.
When Vangelis had decided to wait long enough to see to any potential negative effects from his food, he picked up the first of his utensils and speared a piece of root vegetable, beginning the meal for everyone else and facilitating Lord Fotios in waving away the serving boy. The process would continue for each round of dishes, but Vangelis held no interest in the formality. It was a procedure that had been carried out at every meal he had ever engaged in outside of his family home. At this point, he barely noticed it.
Vangelis was pleased when Selene took his arm and then surprised at how foreign the sensation was. The two of them had spent a small time in each other’s company, to be sure. There were hesitating moments of it when he had last visited Taengea, then a week in which they had spent many hours together talking, and then nothing until this evening. For the closeness they each clearly felt in their friendship, there had been little to no time in which they were in close physical proximity. Vangelis strongly suspected that their notions of kinship came from their letter writing and their conversations - less so which kingdom they each happened to be inhabiting when the words were written or said.
As such, when they actually broke through the wall of distance or propriety and physical contact occurred - such as now, as he escorted her down the corridor with arms linked, it was a perfectly natural thing to offer and an entirely strange thing to experience. With was bizarre in its contradiction.
But Vangelis was not a great thinker on such topics and simply dismissed the frisson that ran over the skin of his forearm as the natural response to such alien attentions between the two of them, and walked calmly with her towards the dining hall that was their destination.
As he was significantly taller than the Lady Leventi - a woman who was of a height just breeching the taller side of average, whilst he towered at an impressive height for a man - Vangelis was forced to adjust his steps a little, shortening his strides so as to keep pace with her as she led them to where her uncle was waiting for them. Such a change in step made the walk slower than natural for him but it wasn't unpleasant.
As they walked, Selene seemed almost to be speaking to herself, commenting on her uncle; that he was a good host and yet might be impertinent in his choices of query or on her own feelings about being glad for his attendance. He wondered, idly, if his quiet was making her uncomfortable to cause her to chatter in such a way.
It was as they reached the doors to the dining hall that Selene offered the final titbit of enjoying his companionship. A statement of such touching honesty that Vangelis didn't quite know what to do with it. People were honoured by his presence, thankful for his presence - even blessed by it some would say. But no-one had ever missed it or enjoyed it for what it was. The former reactions were that of a civilian to a prince. Selene's were of a more personal nature. One that he felt warm him a little from the inside out.
As if she were hoping her compliment of his company was enough to balance out her prophecy of her uncle's sharpness - listing one directly after the other - Vangelis reacted on pure instinct, seeking to calm her nerves and return her feelings of companionship...
He winked at her.
And before either of them could react to such a lightning quick, teasing gesture, Vangelis was pushing open the door to the dining chamber, escorting her through it as was proper, not a hint of the informal Vangelis about him.
Bowing as he escorted the woman through the door and then looking up to inspect the room around him, Vangelis found the dining hall to be very similar to that back home. Panelled in dark wood, polished to a high shine, with candle brackets around the walls and hanging from the ceiling, the entire room had a cosy and yet formal feel. Masculine and defiant. Which summed up the Kotas manor to a fine point.
There was only a single set of furniture in the room - that of a long table and chairs in the blackest of woods, and shinier than the silver utensils lining its surface. Down the centre of the table ran a trim of white cloth with gold place settings and silver cutlery placed either side before six place settings.
As the table was so large, the set-up had been arranged at one end, with Fotios at the head of the table, his wife to his left hand-side. The chair to his right was left markedly absence, as was that beside the lovely Lady Eirini. The two final chairs at the opposite end to their father, already had their patrons standing behind them - the Ladies Agape and Melina.
Clearly expected to take the seat to the right hand of the Head of the House, Vangelis saw no reason to argue as it was a place of honour within the mansion and stood behind his seat willingly, after escorting Lady Selene to the open spot beside the Lady Eirini.
Upon Fotios's indication that everyone be seated, Vangelis paused only long enough to remove his himation and one of the belts around his waist - the one that sported the sheath for his long-knife. While his other, hidden weapons, would not spoil the atmosphere of dinner, it was a simple fact that it was difficult to sit down when still wearing your blade at your hip. Plus, his mother had never allowed weapons at the dinner table.
Quick and efficient from years of practice, Vangelis removed and then refastened the belt, in order to hook it over one of the top pommels of the seat, before draping his himation over the leather scabbard and shining steel hilt. Dressed now in only his sleeveless, black chiton, the golden cuffs around his wrists, the leather bracelet around his upper arm, Vangelis felt a little exposed, used to linen shirts. It concerned him little however, along with any reactions to the angry looking laceration over his bicep - the one still healing from the cave in during the storm - and the mottled red pattern over his opposing shoulder - sparks and ash pieces that had given him tiny, minor burns over his skin during the fire. Such marks would vanish in time and Vangelis was always healing from one injury or another - he had stopping paying his appearance in such matters any heed long ago.
Upon being served a wine that his host assured him was of the highest calibre, Vangelis said nothing regarding his preference not to drink and simply waited, once more, for his host to sip before himself, before taking a dutiful mouthful of the sharp wine.
When the meal was ordered to be brought out, Vangelis was thankful that Lord Fotios was clearly familiar with dining with members of royalty - foreign or otherwise - as the servant who brought his plate, brought a small empty one for themselves. Vangelis reacted little as the young man took up a set of his own utensils - iron rather than silver - and cut away a small portion of each item on Vangelis plate, in view of him for confirmation. Transferring those pieces to the empty plate, the young man then took a step back with his miniscule version of Vangelis' meal and quickly ate everything there in a single swallow that couldn't be more than half a mouthful.
Lord Fotios continued adequate and passive conversation regarding Vangelis' journey - a topic that Vangelis contributed only enough to for it to continue - as if everyone in the room wasn't awkwardly waiting to see if the young boy a few steps behind Vangelis' chair to drop dead of poison.
The two men in the room gave no reaction to the true purpose of urbane conversation that was designed to delay the beginning of the meal without oddity, while Agape and Eirini seemed to be having a conversation with their eyes that Vangelis wasn't interested in dissecting. The Lady Melina, who sat beside him appeared to be intensely interested in the edge of her plate and towards Selene, Vangelis tried to keep his attention proper, rather than sending wistful glances her way like a co-conspirator.
When Vangelis had decided to wait long enough to see to any potential negative effects from his food, he picked up the first of his utensils and speared a piece of root vegetable, beginning the meal for everyone else and facilitating Lord Fotios in waving away the serving boy. The process would continue for each round of dishes, but Vangelis held no interest in the formality. It was a procedure that had been carried out at every meal he had ever engaged in outside of his family home. At this point, he barely noticed it.
Selene wouldn’t have minded the quiet moment between them. They had spent many silent moments together in Colchis, over the Mercenaries board. Where theory and conversation were swept to the side in favor of good competition. No, she had decided to fill the silence because they were things she felt like she needed to say. As much as she was wary of her uncle, she didn’t wish for him to leave a bad impression on the prince. Likewise, she didn’t want for Vangelis to feel offended by her uncle. No one liked to go into a situation like this unprepared, and she felt it was her duty to explain.
The confession that she had missed him had been a bit unlike her. She was always expected to be the example. She was the proper one, the one who would show everyone else around her what to be. Her actions in a room often the set tone, and would drive opinions of others who chose to act differently. For her to open up to him in this simple statement was highly rare. But it seemed that he had stopped being surprised by her actions, as different as they were from what he was used to.
So his wink, a bit out of character for him, caught her completely off guard. She didn’t even have a moment to blush about it before the doors were opened and she was brought into the room in front of her family. And perhaps that was for the best, as all eyes were on her. Blushing would have given away her feelings, or her surprise, and that was the last thing she wanted. She followed suit, still attached to his arm, but offering a curtsy in greeting to her uncle once again. There was no hesitation as she allowed him to seat her next to her aunt, watching as the prince took his own seat.
Selene hadn’t thought much of the taster, hadn’t really judge the action as anything more than proper for a crowned prince to do. She remembered it from the few meals she’d had with Zacharias. He had quietly told it that it wasn’t about not trusting the host, but it was about security for your own person. You couldn’t take a chance when the throne was on the line. She did as was proper, instead trying to input herself into the conversation with her cousins. Instead, she allowed herself to steal a glance at Vangelis, a soft smile on her face as they waited. Her attention was quickly back to the girls, not wishing to give anything away.
As it became apparent that no poison was in the food, the meal was begun. There was very little she could say in the conversation as Fotios and Vangelis made small talk. It was not her place to interfere on a conversation she was not apart of, nor did she wish to. Her uncle had made it clear that she was to show her abilities off, and it was just as important to know when to speak as to when not to. Trying to focus on a conversation with her aunt, however, was not going well. She tried to speak of the wedding, or of the baby, but there was not much to add on the top. As much as she wished to dots upon her siblings, she knew it was just a distraction until she could be pulled into the conversation once again with Vang.
Her cousins looked over at her, their amusement in her obvious lack of interest apparent. What she wouldn’t give to kick one of them under the table...
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May 26, 2019 22:09:31 GMT
Posted In Long Awaited on May 26, 2019 22:09:31 GMT
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Selene wouldn’t have minded the quiet moment between them. They had spent many silent moments together in Colchis, over the Mercenaries board. Where theory and conversation were swept to the side in favor of good competition. No, she had decided to fill the silence because they were things she felt like she needed to say. As much as she was wary of her uncle, she didn’t wish for him to leave a bad impression on the prince. Likewise, she didn’t want for Vangelis to feel offended by her uncle. No one liked to go into a situation like this unprepared, and she felt it was her duty to explain.
The confession that she had missed him had been a bit unlike her. She was always expected to be the example. She was the proper one, the one who would show everyone else around her what to be. Her actions in a room often the set tone, and would drive opinions of others who chose to act differently. For her to open up to him in this simple statement was highly rare. But it seemed that he had stopped being surprised by her actions, as different as they were from what he was used to.
So his wink, a bit out of character for him, caught her completely off guard. She didn’t even have a moment to blush about it before the doors were opened and she was brought into the room in front of her family. And perhaps that was for the best, as all eyes were on her. Blushing would have given away her feelings, or her surprise, and that was the last thing she wanted. She followed suit, still attached to his arm, but offering a curtsy in greeting to her uncle once again. There was no hesitation as she allowed him to seat her next to her aunt, watching as the prince took his own seat.
Selene hadn’t thought much of the taster, hadn’t really judge the action as anything more than proper for a crowned prince to do. She remembered it from the few meals she’d had with Zacharias. He had quietly told it that it wasn’t about not trusting the host, but it was about security for your own person. You couldn’t take a chance when the throne was on the line. She did as was proper, instead trying to input herself into the conversation with her cousins. Instead, she allowed herself to steal a glance at Vangelis, a soft smile on her face as they waited. Her attention was quickly back to the girls, not wishing to give anything away.
As it became apparent that no poison was in the food, the meal was begun. There was very little she could say in the conversation as Fotios and Vangelis made small talk. It was not her place to interfere on a conversation she was not apart of, nor did she wish to. Her uncle had made it clear that she was to show her abilities off, and it was just as important to know when to speak as to when not to. Trying to focus on a conversation with her aunt, however, was not going well. She tried to speak of the wedding, or of the baby, but there was not much to add on the top. As much as she wished to dots upon her siblings, she knew it was just a distraction until she could be pulled into the conversation once again with Vang.
Her cousins looked over at her, their amusement in her obvious lack of interest apparent. What she wouldn’t give to kick one of them under the table...
Selene wouldn’t have minded the quiet moment between them. They had spent many silent moments together in Colchis, over the Mercenaries board. Where theory and conversation were swept to the side in favor of good competition. No, she had decided to fill the silence because they were things she felt like she needed to say. As much as she was wary of her uncle, she didn’t wish for him to leave a bad impression on the prince. Likewise, she didn’t want for Vangelis to feel offended by her uncle. No one liked to go into a situation like this unprepared, and she felt it was her duty to explain.
The confession that she had missed him had been a bit unlike her. She was always expected to be the example. She was the proper one, the one who would show everyone else around her what to be. Her actions in a room often the set tone, and would drive opinions of others who chose to act differently. For her to open up to him in this simple statement was highly rare. But it seemed that he had stopped being surprised by her actions, as different as they were from what he was used to.
So his wink, a bit out of character for him, caught her completely off guard. She didn’t even have a moment to blush about it before the doors were opened and she was brought into the room in front of her family. And perhaps that was for the best, as all eyes were on her. Blushing would have given away her feelings, or her surprise, and that was the last thing she wanted. She followed suit, still attached to his arm, but offering a curtsy in greeting to her uncle once again. There was no hesitation as she allowed him to seat her next to her aunt, watching as the prince took his own seat.
Selene hadn’t thought much of the taster, hadn’t really judge the action as anything more than proper for a crowned prince to do. She remembered it from the few meals she’d had with Zacharias. He had quietly told it that it wasn’t about not trusting the host, but it was about security for your own person. You couldn’t take a chance when the throne was on the line. She did as was proper, instead trying to input herself into the conversation with her cousins. Instead, she allowed herself to steal a glance at Vangelis, a soft smile on her face as they waited. Her attention was quickly back to the girls, not wishing to give anything away.
As it became apparent that no poison was in the food, the meal was begun. There was very little she could say in the conversation as Fotios and Vangelis made small talk. It was not her place to interfere on a conversation she was not apart of, nor did she wish to. Her uncle had made it clear that she was to show her abilities off, and it was just as important to know when to speak as to when not to. Trying to focus on a conversation with her aunt, however, was not going well. She tried to speak of the wedding, or of the baby, but there was not much to add on the top. As much as she wished to dots upon her siblings, she knew it was just a distraction until she could be pulled into the conversation once again with Vang.
Her cousins looked over at her, their amusement in her obvious lack of interest apparent. What she wouldn’t give to kick one of them under the table...
Fotios' general cordiality as host lasted for the first course of the meal, in which Vangelis kept his attention on his plate, or on his host's face rather than delve into the conversation happening amongst the ladies. He found himself slightly uncomfortably with how quiet the Lady Melina and Agape were. Selene said nothing either but there seemed a difference between the two. Selene was quiet while Melina and Agape was sombre. As if they were not permitted to join in the conversation.
When the second course arrived and there was a natural pause in the conversation, Vangelis spoke out. It was unnatural for him to deliberately attempt to form a conversation but it was making the hairs on the back of his neck rise that the two youngest at the table seemed wary of him - or perhaps the situation.
"Do you ride, Lady Agape?" He asked as a plate of lamb leg was placed before him. He smelt the rosemary and the specific spices that Colchis was famed for and realised the kitchens had prepared a dish from his homeland in deference to him as their guest. He nodded his thanks to Fotios, who returned with a small smile. "I understand Leventi horses are the most superior in Greece... and that Leventi daughters equally impressive riders." His glance shifted slightly to Selene but flickered almost immediately back to the girl beside her.
Agape raised her chin at the question and offered a smile as if she couldn't help herself.
"I've been known to ride well, your Highness." She told him, eyes alight. There was a moment where she lost his eye contact as she spotted a look directed at her from Eirini. The light seemed to dim. "But I am not as good a rider as my cousin, Selene." She finished with a tone much flatter than she had begun the conversation.
Ah. Vangelis thought. So, that was why the girls were being silent. Ne'er the spotlight be taken from the eldest, unmarried girl. Somehow, this thought crossed Vangelis' understanding without the concept of Selene's marital status or the changing thereof taking hold. It was simply a fact to him that women of the nobility often tried not to show off their greatest assets when there was an older, still unmarried relative in the room.
Distracted by an ugly scraping sound of utensil on plate that had the hair of his arm rise to attention, Vangelis glanced to his right to notice that Lady Melina was struggling to remove meat from bone. Vangelis wondered if Taengeans never ate meat directly in such a way, as she was using her implements all wrong the desired effect and would risk sending the sauce down her front in a moment if not careful.
Without much thought, Vangelis simply reacted as he would to his sister. He coughed slightly, shifted in his seat in a way that had him naturally bump his elbow slightly into his neighbours and then turned his attention entirely on Lord Fotios, as if the gesture had never happened.
"I ask about riding simply because my sister would, I'm sure, greatly benefit from learning such skills from your House, Lord Fotios." He commented as he very deliberately arranged his utensils. One placed over the bone and the other spearing into the meet at a particular indent in the muscle. With a twist of the second implement the meat came away from the bone easily, revealing how well it had been cooked and prepared. He never looked at Melina, nor drew attention to what he was doing. "I would perhaps ask your permission that the Ladies join my sister and I on a ride during our visit to your kingdom." He finished before taking the meat he had cut and placing it into his mouth.
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Fotios' general cordiality as host lasted for the first course of the meal, in which Vangelis kept his attention on his plate, or on his host's face rather than delve into the conversation happening amongst the ladies. He found himself slightly uncomfortably with how quiet the Lady Melina and Agape were. Selene said nothing either but there seemed a difference between the two. Selene was quiet while Melina and Agape was sombre. As if they were not permitted to join in the conversation.
When the second course arrived and there was a natural pause in the conversation, Vangelis spoke out. It was unnatural for him to deliberately attempt to form a conversation but it was making the hairs on the back of his neck rise that the two youngest at the table seemed wary of him - or perhaps the situation.
"Do you ride, Lady Agape?" He asked as a plate of lamb leg was placed before him. He smelt the rosemary and the specific spices that Colchis was famed for and realised the kitchens had prepared a dish from his homeland in deference to him as their guest. He nodded his thanks to Fotios, who returned with a small smile. "I understand Leventi horses are the most superior in Greece... and that Leventi daughters equally impressive riders." His glance shifted slightly to Selene but flickered almost immediately back to the girl beside her.
Agape raised her chin at the question and offered a smile as if she couldn't help herself.
"I've been known to ride well, your Highness." She told him, eyes alight. There was a moment where she lost his eye contact as she spotted a look directed at her from Eirini. The light seemed to dim. "But I am not as good a rider as my cousin, Selene." She finished with a tone much flatter than she had begun the conversation.
Ah. Vangelis thought. So, that was why the girls were being silent. Ne'er the spotlight be taken from the eldest, unmarried girl. Somehow, this thought crossed Vangelis' understanding without the concept of Selene's marital status or the changing thereof taking hold. It was simply a fact to him that women of the nobility often tried not to show off their greatest assets when there was an older, still unmarried relative in the room.
Distracted by an ugly scraping sound of utensil on plate that had the hair of his arm rise to attention, Vangelis glanced to his right to notice that Lady Melina was struggling to remove meat from bone. Vangelis wondered if Taengeans never ate meat directly in such a way, as she was using her implements all wrong the desired effect and would risk sending the sauce down her front in a moment if not careful.
Without much thought, Vangelis simply reacted as he would to his sister. He coughed slightly, shifted in his seat in a way that had him naturally bump his elbow slightly into his neighbours and then turned his attention entirely on Lord Fotios, as if the gesture had never happened.
"I ask about riding simply because my sister would, I'm sure, greatly benefit from learning such skills from your House, Lord Fotios." He commented as he very deliberately arranged his utensils. One placed over the bone and the other spearing into the meet at a particular indent in the muscle. With a twist of the second implement the meat came away from the bone easily, revealing how well it had been cooked and prepared. He never looked at Melina, nor drew attention to what he was doing. "I would perhaps ask your permission that the Ladies join my sister and I on a ride during our visit to your kingdom." He finished before taking the meat he had cut and placing it into his mouth.
Fotios' general cordiality as host lasted for the first course of the meal, in which Vangelis kept his attention on his plate, or on his host's face rather than delve into the conversation happening amongst the ladies. He found himself slightly uncomfortably with how quiet the Lady Melina and Agape were. Selene said nothing either but there seemed a difference between the two. Selene was quiet while Melina and Agape was sombre. As if they were not permitted to join in the conversation.
When the second course arrived and there was a natural pause in the conversation, Vangelis spoke out. It was unnatural for him to deliberately attempt to form a conversation but it was making the hairs on the back of his neck rise that the two youngest at the table seemed wary of him - or perhaps the situation.
"Do you ride, Lady Agape?" He asked as a plate of lamb leg was placed before him. He smelt the rosemary and the specific spices that Colchis was famed for and realised the kitchens had prepared a dish from his homeland in deference to him as their guest. He nodded his thanks to Fotios, who returned with a small smile. "I understand Leventi horses are the most superior in Greece... and that Leventi daughters equally impressive riders." His glance shifted slightly to Selene but flickered almost immediately back to the girl beside her.
Agape raised her chin at the question and offered a smile as if she couldn't help herself.
"I've been known to ride well, your Highness." She told him, eyes alight. There was a moment where she lost his eye contact as she spotted a look directed at her from Eirini. The light seemed to dim. "But I am not as good a rider as my cousin, Selene." She finished with a tone much flatter than she had begun the conversation.
Ah. Vangelis thought. So, that was why the girls were being silent. Ne'er the spotlight be taken from the eldest, unmarried girl. Somehow, this thought crossed Vangelis' understanding without the concept of Selene's marital status or the changing thereof taking hold. It was simply a fact to him that women of the nobility often tried not to show off their greatest assets when there was an older, still unmarried relative in the room.
Distracted by an ugly scraping sound of utensil on plate that had the hair of his arm rise to attention, Vangelis glanced to his right to notice that Lady Melina was struggling to remove meat from bone. Vangelis wondered if Taengeans never ate meat directly in such a way, as she was using her implements all wrong the desired effect and would risk sending the sauce down her front in a moment if not careful.
Without much thought, Vangelis simply reacted as he would to his sister. He coughed slightly, shifted in his seat in a way that had him naturally bump his elbow slightly into his neighbours and then turned his attention entirely on Lord Fotios, as if the gesture had never happened.
"I ask about riding simply because my sister would, I'm sure, greatly benefit from learning such skills from your House, Lord Fotios." He commented as he very deliberately arranged his utensils. One placed over the bone and the other spearing into the meet at a particular indent in the muscle. With a twist of the second implement the meat came away from the bone easily, revealing how well it had been cooked and prepared. He never looked at Melina, nor drew attention to what he was doing. "I would perhaps ask your permission that the Ladies join my sister and I on a ride during our visit to your kingdom." He finished before taking the meat he had cut and placing it into his mouth.
Fotios spent the first part of the conversation performing his duties as host appropriately. He spent the next course watching what was happening around the table with great care. His eyes narrowed as he noticed the Prince do the same. There was rumour and reputation regarding the Crown Prince of Colchis that said he was blunt, unobservant and altogether unrefined in the finer ways of etiquette. He had been concerned, upon hearing such thoughts that his niece would be unimpressed by a barbarous man and had hoped that such a wayward nobleman might be considered a project for her feminine heart.
But that was not the man who had come to dine at his table.
The Prince of Colchis was, Fotios was noticing highly observant and insightful if the narrowing of his eyes an the flicks of his gaze were anything to do by. He simply wasn't engaging with the conversation or with particular elements of the dinner because he seemed to care nothing for them; as if they held no effect to him and he would have no consideration for them until they did.
It was the exactly opposite of Fotios' way of thinking, in which everything was able to be within his control if he listened, paid attention and played his part well enough. That was how he liked things. Vangelis of Kotas seemed perfectly content in letting the world go by, his only influence in it that which he chose.
It was irritating to say the least.
When the prince asked for the appropriate permission for Fotios to allow the young girls to attend him - an unmarried man alone, Fotios hedged his bets and responded in a manner he was sure the prince was expecting.
"I see no reason why not." He told him. "I'm sure the Lady Agape will be busy with the arrangements for her cousin's wedding, but I believe Lady Selene could be made available. Provided her lady escorts her I see no reason why she couldn't spend an afternoon with your sister and your own company, your Highness. Here on the Leventi estate, of course."
The prince's eyes seemed to flash, telling Fotios that yes, he was indeed right. This man missed nothing.
"Of course." was the Colchians only reply, before Fotios noted a glance between him and the eldest Leventi girl.
Hmm... Fotios considered. This might be more of a done deal than I had hoped for...
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May 26, 2019 22:10:10 GMT
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Fotios spent the first part of the conversation performing his duties as host appropriately. He spent the next course watching what was happening around the table with great care. His eyes narrowed as he noticed the Prince do the same. There was rumour and reputation regarding the Crown Prince of Colchis that said he was blunt, unobservant and altogether unrefined in the finer ways of etiquette. He had been concerned, upon hearing such thoughts that his niece would be unimpressed by a barbarous man and had hoped that such a wayward nobleman might be considered a project for her feminine heart.
But that was not the man who had come to dine at his table.
The Prince of Colchis was, Fotios was noticing highly observant and insightful if the narrowing of his eyes an the flicks of his gaze were anything to do by. He simply wasn't engaging with the conversation or with particular elements of the dinner because he seemed to care nothing for them; as if they held no effect to him and he would have no consideration for them until they did.
It was the exactly opposite of Fotios' way of thinking, in which everything was able to be within his control if he listened, paid attention and played his part well enough. That was how he liked things. Vangelis of Kotas seemed perfectly content in letting the world go by, his only influence in it that which he chose.
It was irritating to say the least.
When the prince asked for the appropriate permission for Fotios to allow the young girls to attend him - an unmarried man alone, Fotios hedged his bets and responded in a manner he was sure the prince was expecting.
"I see no reason why not." He told him. "I'm sure the Lady Agape will be busy with the arrangements for her cousin's wedding, but I believe Lady Selene could be made available. Provided her lady escorts her I see no reason why she couldn't spend an afternoon with your sister and your own company, your Highness. Here on the Leventi estate, of course."
The prince's eyes seemed to flash, telling Fotios that yes, he was indeed right. This man missed nothing.
"Of course." was the Colchians only reply, before Fotios noted a glance between him and the eldest Leventi girl.
Hmm... Fotios considered. This might be more of a done deal than I had hoped for...
Fotios spent the first part of the conversation performing his duties as host appropriately. He spent the next course watching what was happening around the table with great care. His eyes narrowed as he noticed the Prince do the same. There was rumour and reputation regarding the Crown Prince of Colchis that said he was blunt, unobservant and altogether unrefined in the finer ways of etiquette. He had been concerned, upon hearing such thoughts that his niece would be unimpressed by a barbarous man and had hoped that such a wayward nobleman might be considered a project for her feminine heart.
But that was not the man who had come to dine at his table.
The Prince of Colchis was, Fotios was noticing highly observant and insightful if the narrowing of his eyes an the flicks of his gaze were anything to do by. He simply wasn't engaging with the conversation or with particular elements of the dinner because he seemed to care nothing for them; as if they held no effect to him and he would have no consideration for them until they did.
It was the exactly opposite of Fotios' way of thinking, in which everything was able to be within his control if he listened, paid attention and played his part well enough. That was how he liked things. Vangelis of Kotas seemed perfectly content in letting the world go by, his only influence in it that which he chose.
It was irritating to say the least.
When the prince asked for the appropriate permission for Fotios to allow the young girls to attend him - an unmarried man alone, Fotios hedged his bets and responded in a manner he was sure the prince was expecting.
"I see no reason why not." He told him. "I'm sure the Lady Agape will be busy with the arrangements for her cousin's wedding, but I believe Lady Selene could be made available. Provided her lady escorts her I see no reason why she couldn't spend an afternoon with your sister and your own company, your Highness. Here on the Leventi estate, of course."
The prince's eyes seemed to flash, telling Fotios that yes, he was indeed right. This man missed nothing.
"Of course." was the Colchians only reply, before Fotios noted a glance between him and the eldest Leventi girl.
Hmm... Fotios considered. This might be more of a done deal than I had hoped for...
There had been a time where Selene wouldn’t have thought about how her cousins were being treated at a meal like this. As the eldest, it was common for her to be the focus. Once she was married, they would have their days. It had always been that way, especially when a royal was dining with them. But now, sitting with them, she felt more compassion for the situation. While they may not have been as interested in him as she was, that didn’t mean that they couldn’t enjoy the conversation, too.
But by the look on her aunt’s face, it was clear that she was not to argue about it.
There was never a shortage of conversation about horses among the family. And every time, each of the girls seemed to brighten with the topic. Not only were they stupendous riders, but they were all very knowledgeable about the breeding and horseflesh. Questions regarding horses were always lively, no matter who was asking. But as the focus was shifted back to her, what once would have made her glow with a chance to brag made sobered her a bit. Selene smiled to her cousin, ”She is most modest, of course. Agape is an accomplished rider, and I am certain she would be as good as I am if she was in the country more. The city lacks the difficult and open terrain that we have at home.”
While Selene had been familiar with the tools from her time in Colchis, it was easy to see that Melina was struggling. And yet, much as the family had done for her, Vangelis wordlessly showed the girl how to use the utensils without making her feel silly for it. As difficult and war-hardened as the Prince as he was also considerate. It may not have been in a way that others were used to, but she couldn’t help but make note of it. And appreciate it.
An invitation to ride with Vangelis had been highly expected. They had spoken of it several times back in Colchis, of a chance for her to show him just how well she rode, to show off the fine Leventi horses and perhaps for her to see how well he rode as well. Her uncle’s reply made it clear that she was the only one to ride with the Prince and Princess, and the look from Vang made her cheeks gently flush. Her smile may have seemed a bit forced, but only because she didn’t want to make her cousins feel as if they were unimportant. ”Of course Uncle. The Princess and I had the chance to ride while in Colchis. She was quite anxious to get comfortable on the filly you sent.”
His attention focused back on Vangelis, ”I hope she continued to ride her once I left?” The question was a safe one, one that she would know the answer to. While Athanasia hadn’t been as confident with her riding initially, by the time Selene had left, she could at least start to trot without feeling like she was going to be injured. ”I have missed her company since leaving.”
Selene had missed more than just her sister. She had cared about his whole family, and in the two weeks she had spent with his family, she had found herself comfortable with them. Even with the differences in the cultural upbringing, the fondness she felt with them was only more apparent now that she was reunited with Vangelis himself. ”The Prince’s schedule during my stay did not leave any time for he and I to ride. I am looking forward to a chance to demonstrate that ability you have heard so much about.” Her smile was genuinely excited for the chance. ”As long as you’ll have time while you are here, of course.”
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May 26, 2019 22:10:36 GMT
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There had been a time where Selene wouldn’t have thought about how her cousins were being treated at a meal like this. As the eldest, it was common for her to be the focus. Once she was married, they would have their days. It had always been that way, especially when a royal was dining with them. But now, sitting with them, she felt more compassion for the situation. While they may not have been as interested in him as she was, that didn’t mean that they couldn’t enjoy the conversation, too.
But by the look on her aunt’s face, it was clear that she was not to argue about it.
There was never a shortage of conversation about horses among the family. And every time, each of the girls seemed to brighten with the topic. Not only were they stupendous riders, but they were all very knowledgeable about the breeding and horseflesh. Questions regarding horses were always lively, no matter who was asking. But as the focus was shifted back to her, what once would have made her glow with a chance to brag made sobered her a bit. Selene smiled to her cousin, ”She is most modest, of course. Agape is an accomplished rider, and I am certain she would be as good as I am if she was in the country more. The city lacks the difficult and open terrain that we have at home.”
While Selene had been familiar with the tools from her time in Colchis, it was easy to see that Melina was struggling. And yet, much as the family had done for her, Vangelis wordlessly showed the girl how to use the utensils without making her feel silly for it. As difficult and war-hardened as the Prince as he was also considerate. It may not have been in a way that others were used to, but she couldn’t help but make note of it. And appreciate it.
An invitation to ride with Vangelis had been highly expected. They had spoken of it several times back in Colchis, of a chance for her to show him just how well she rode, to show off the fine Leventi horses and perhaps for her to see how well he rode as well. Her uncle’s reply made it clear that she was the only one to ride with the Prince and Princess, and the look from Vang made her cheeks gently flush. Her smile may have seemed a bit forced, but only because she didn’t want to make her cousins feel as if they were unimportant. ”Of course Uncle. The Princess and I had the chance to ride while in Colchis. She was quite anxious to get comfortable on the filly you sent.”
His attention focused back on Vangelis, ”I hope she continued to ride her once I left?” The question was a safe one, one that she would know the answer to. While Athanasia hadn’t been as confident with her riding initially, by the time Selene had left, she could at least start to trot without feeling like she was going to be injured. ”I have missed her company since leaving.”
Selene had missed more than just her sister. She had cared about his whole family, and in the two weeks she had spent with his family, she had found herself comfortable with them. Even with the differences in the cultural upbringing, the fondness she felt with them was only more apparent now that she was reunited with Vangelis himself. ”The Prince’s schedule during my stay did not leave any time for he and I to ride. I am looking forward to a chance to demonstrate that ability you have heard so much about.” Her smile was genuinely excited for the chance. ”As long as you’ll have time while you are here, of course.”
There had been a time where Selene wouldn’t have thought about how her cousins were being treated at a meal like this. As the eldest, it was common for her to be the focus. Once she was married, they would have their days. It had always been that way, especially when a royal was dining with them. But now, sitting with them, she felt more compassion for the situation. While they may not have been as interested in him as she was, that didn’t mean that they couldn’t enjoy the conversation, too.
But by the look on her aunt’s face, it was clear that she was not to argue about it.
There was never a shortage of conversation about horses among the family. And every time, each of the girls seemed to brighten with the topic. Not only were they stupendous riders, but they were all very knowledgeable about the breeding and horseflesh. Questions regarding horses were always lively, no matter who was asking. But as the focus was shifted back to her, what once would have made her glow with a chance to brag made sobered her a bit. Selene smiled to her cousin, ”She is most modest, of course. Agape is an accomplished rider, and I am certain she would be as good as I am if she was in the country more. The city lacks the difficult and open terrain that we have at home.”
While Selene had been familiar with the tools from her time in Colchis, it was easy to see that Melina was struggling. And yet, much as the family had done for her, Vangelis wordlessly showed the girl how to use the utensils without making her feel silly for it. As difficult and war-hardened as the Prince as he was also considerate. It may not have been in a way that others were used to, but she couldn’t help but make note of it. And appreciate it.
An invitation to ride with Vangelis had been highly expected. They had spoken of it several times back in Colchis, of a chance for her to show him just how well she rode, to show off the fine Leventi horses and perhaps for her to see how well he rode as well. Her uncle’s reply made it clear that she was the only one to ride with the Prince and Princess, and the look from Vang made her cheeks gently flush. Her smile may have seemed a bit forced, but only because she didn’t want to make her cousins feel as if they were unimportant. ”Of course Uncle. The Princess and I had the chance to ride while in Colchis. She was quite anxious to get comfortable on the filly you sent.”
His attention focused back on Vangelis, ”I hope she continued to ride her once I left?” The question was a safe one, one that she would know the answer to. While Athanasia hadn’t been as confident with her riding initially, by the time Selene had left, she could at least start to trot without feeling like she was going to be injured. ”I have missed her company since leaving.”
Selene had missed more than just her sister. She had cared about his whole family, and in the two weeks she had spent with his family, she had found herself comfortable with them. Even with the differences in the cultural upbringing, the fondness she felt with them was only more apparent now that she was reunited with Vangelis himself. ”The Prince’s schedule during my stay did not leave any time for he and I to ride. I am looking forward to a chance to demonstrate that ability you have heard so much about.” Her smile was genuinely excited for the chance. ”As long as you’ll have time while you are here, of course.”
Vangelis watched the emotions play across Selene's face as conversation continued. Despite him not being one to focus on such simple gestures or features - he was in no way a connisseur of high court etiquette - he found watching her to be interesting. Perhaps it was the fact that the woman had been so open in Colchis when they had last been face to face, but Vangelis noted the mask of propriety she kept shifting into place and found himself naturally seeking the truth behind the mask as it would slip for a moment then be moved back into place.
As she mentioned about his sister continuing to ride after her leave taking, Vangelis commented that she had a little, repeating the information he had given Selene in private, in a more formal manner, for her uncle's sake, ensuring that he thanked the man for both of the horses. He also mentioned how he hoped to break Phobos as soon as he was able to return to Colchis, and relieve his stable hands of their difficulties with the untamed stallion.
"If time is the only concern, I shall make it." Vangelis insisted, when Selene mentioned about finding a moment in his schedule. "My sister always came back from your rides with glowing praise. I would not risk her wrath in turning one down, upon the offer."
Vangelis tried to communicate a feeling of familiarity in his gaze for he had heard Selene's very particular word choice. It hasn't been his schedule that had forbidden them from riding together in Colchis, it had been his health having him flat on his back. She had paid testament to his pride.
"I am scheduled to visit his highness tomorrow." Vangelis explained as he finished off the meat that had been served to him a d empty plates were cleared from the table. "But perhaps the day after?"
As the meal progressed, conversation continued much in a normal tact and politeness. The Lord Fotios made few impertinent queries as Selene had clearly feared he would, aside from one moment in which he queried why he was visiting onto the Lady Dorothea on his visit. Vangelis was determined not to offer the man the satisfaction of the answers he was looking for and simply answered with - "Because I was invited." - which soon put aside any follow up queries.
When the final course of the dinner had been presented, taste tester, consumed and cleared away, Vangelis was encouraged by Lord Fotios to stay later and drink with him in one of the many luxurious rooms in the manor. Not liking the idea of conversation with the distraction of well time food, however, Vangelis politely declined under the truthful pretense of needing to return to the rented home in which his sister and cousin had been left.
As such, after a half hour of lingering over wine that Vangelis did not drink, the prince was shown back to the foyer as Fotios reiterated the plans to go riding with Selene two days hence. Vangelis returned the confirmed and with an indicative wave of his arm, the Head of the House of Leventi encouraged his eldest niece to escort Vangelis down the front gardens towards his horse that was already waiting for his use at the front gates.
Feeling decidedly awkward, Vangelis once more walked at the young woman's pace as they headed to the front gate together to say their goodbyes for the evening.
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Vangelis watched the emotions play across Selene's face as conversation continued. Despite him not being one to focus on such simple gestures or features - he was in no way a connisseur of high court etiquette - he found watching her to be interesting. Perhaps it was the fact that the woman had been so open in Colchis when they had last been face to face, but Vangelis noted the mask of propriety she kept shifting into place and found himself naturally seeking the truth behind the mask as it would slip for a moment then be moved back into place.
As she mentioned about his sister continuing to ride after her leave taking, Vangelis commented that she had a little, repeating the information he had given Selene in private, in a more formal manner, for her uncle's sake, ensuring that he thanked the man for both of the horses. He also mentioned how he hoped to break Phobos as soon as he was able to return to Colchis, and relieve his stable hands of their difficulties with the untamed stallion.
"If time is the only concern, I shall make it." Vangelis insisted, when Selene mentioned about finding a moment in his schedule. "My sister always came back from your rides with glowing praise. I would not risk her wrath in turning one down, upon the offer."
Vangelis tried to communicate a feeling of familiarity in his gaze for he had heard Selene's very particular word choice. It hasn't been his schedule that had forbidden them from riding together in Colchis, it had been his health having him flat on his back. She had paid testament to his pride.
"I am scheduled to visit his highness tomorrow." Vangelis explained as he finished off the meat that had been served to him a d empty plates were cleared from the table. "But perhaps the day after?"
As the meal progressed, conversation continued much in a normal tact and politeness. The Lord Fotios made few impertinent queries as Selene had clearly feared he would, aside from one moment in which he queried why he was visiting onto the Lady Dorothea on his visit. Vangelis was determined not to offer the man the satisfaction of the answers he was looking for and simply answered with - "Because I was invited." - which soon put aside any follow up queries.
When the final course of the dinner had been presented, taste tester, consumed and cleared away, Vangelis was encouraged by Lord Fotios to stay later and drink with him in one of the many luxurious rooms in the manor. Not liking the idea of conversation with the distraction of well time food, however, Vangelis politely declined under the truthful pretense of needing to return to the rented home in which his sister and cousin had been left.
As such, after a half hour of lingering over wine that Vangelis did not drink, the prince was shown back to the foyer as Fotios reiterated the plans to go riding with Selene two days hence. Vangelis returned the confirmed and with an indicative wave of his arm, the Head of the House of Leventi encouraged his eldest niece to escort Vangelis down the front gardens towards his horse that was already waiting for his use at the front gates.
Feeling decidedly awkward, Vangelis once more walked at the young woman's pace as they headed to the front gate together to say their goodbyes for the evening.
Vangelis watched the emotions play across Selene's face as conversation continued. Despite him not being one to focus on such simple gestures or features - he was in no way a connisseur of high court etiquette - he found watching her to be interesting. Perhaps it was the fact that the woman had been so open in Colchis when they had last been face to face, but Vangelis noted the mask of propriety she kept shifting into place and found himself naturally seeking the truth behind the mask as it would slip for a moment then be moved back into place.
As she mentioned about his sister continuing to ride after her leave taking, Vangelis commented that she had a little, repeating the information he had given Selene in private, in a more formal manner, for her uncle's sake, ensuring that he thanked the man for both of the horses. He also mentioned how he hoped to break Phobos as soon as he was able to return to Colchis, and relieve his stable hands of their difficulties with the untamed stallion.
"If time is the only concern, I shall make it." Vangelis insisted, when Selene mentioned about finding a moment in his schedule. "My sister always came back from your rides with glowing praise. I would not risk her wrath in turning one down, upon the offer."
Vangelis tried to communicate a feeling of familiarity in his gaze for he had heard Selene's very particular word choice. It hasn't been his schedule that had forbidden them from riding together in Colchis, it had been his health having him flat on his back. She had paid testament to his pride.
"I am scheduled to visit his highness tomorrow." Vangelis explained as he finished off the meat that had been served to him a d empty plates were cleared from the table. "But perhaps the day after?"
As the meal progressed, conversation continued much in a normal tact and politeness. The Lord Fotios made few impertinent queries as Selene had clearly feared he would, aside from one moment in which he queried why he was visiting onto the Lady Dorothea on his visit. Vangelis was determined not to offer the man the satisfaction of the answers he was looking for and simply answered with - "Because I was invited." - which soon put aside any follow up queries.
When the final course of the dinner had been presented, taste tester, consumed and cleared away, Vangelis was encouraged by Lord Fotios to stay later and drink with him in one of the many luxurious rooms in the manor. Not liking the idea of conversation with the distraction of well time food, however, Vangelis politely declined under the truthful pretense of needing to return to the rented home in which his sister and cousin had been left.
As such, after a half hour of lingering over wine that Vangelis did not drink, the prince was shown back to the foyer as Fotios reiterated the plans to go riding with Selene two days hence. Vangelis returned the confirmed and with an indicative wave of his arm, the Head of the House of Leventi encouraged his eldest niece to escort Vangelis down the front gardens towards his horse that was already waiting for his use at the front gates.
Feeling decidedly awkward, Vangelis once more walked at the young woman's pace as they headed to the front gate together to say their goodbyes for the evening.
There was an expectation.
When she had been in Colchis, she had only spent the first night feeling like she had to keep decorum. The Kotas men hadn’t exactly allowed her to keep it up for long. And having spent 2 weeks in their home, in their company, she had no choice but to let down proprietary and open up a bit. And after walking in on him half naked in the middle of the night, it had been hard for them to pretend like being proper was necessary. He had asked that she be honest with him when they were alone, and she hadn’t minded the idea. It was easier to let her walls down and accept him for what he was. And he seemed to do the same for her.
It was refreshing.
But here, she could not do that. Not only because she was in her uncle’s home, where his expectations of her as a hostess were high. But because she was required to set the example. As the eldest, she had to show those in the room that she was refined and poised. Selene could do that, had to do that. And she didn’t want her uncle to try and further influence her relationship. A crown prince was the most desirable match she could make. And no matter how much she wanted him as a friend, if her uncle had his way, they would have been engaged by the end of the night.
Although she was fairly certain that her uncle was well aware that they were friends, at the least.
Where she would have brightened at the initial agreement to ride, she hid her excitement. Instead, her cheeks flushed and she smiled. ”I shall make sure my schedule is empty, my lord.” Her promise was said over the course, and from their, the conversation moved on. But there was a warmth in her heart, and joy over the chance to show her strength to him. She highly respect his opinion, and a part of her hand wondered if people just complimented her ability because she was both said to be blessed by Aphrodite and because she was a Leventi. He would be blunt with her if she was not. But she knew that if he hadn’t wished to ride, he would have said so. Vangelis was not a man who did things because he felt obligated.
Selene has tried, and failed, to stir the conversation away from the obvious inquiries into something less… obvious. And, like he had expected it, the prince had done is best to answer the question without insulting the host. She could see what he would be like in court, skillful and matter of fact. A part of her longed to see it, to watch him handle the nobles she had considered just as pretentious and fake as he did. There was a quiet joy in seeing him like this, aware of the motives and yet unperturbed by them. Her heart warmed a bit, glad that he was the honest man she had thought him to be.
As the meal concluded and the men lingered towards conversation, Selene and the other ladies retired the parlor towards the front of the house. But within minutes of that, she was left alone as her aunt needed to supervise the clean up and her cousins didn’t wish to be a bother. She found herself staring out a nearby window, wondering what life was going to bring. She hadn’t counted on any of this, and found herself deeply enjoying whatever moments of his company she could find. As soon as she heard the door open, she was focused back on the men as her uncle pressed her to escort him back out for the evening.
It wasn’t until they were alone, her arm woven through his, that she allowed herself to look up at him. And she stayed quiet until they were a distance from the house before speaking. ”I hope everything was to your liking, my… I mean, Vangelis.” Her cheeks flushed, reminding her that he had insisted on first names when they were alone. ”I am sure you had other things you wished to do tonight, regardless of your desires not to offend your host. But I must confess that I was most content with your company. Even at their finest, my cousins are not the easiest to spark up conversation with.” She was certain it was due to some animosity because of her unmarried status and her looks. ”And, now that we are alone, I can confess that I am most excited for our ride.” There seemed to be bounce in her step, the same one that had been there the day she’d gifted him with his horse. ”I have not had much chance to ride since being home, and even less company to so with. I am happy you are fit enough to oblige me on it.”
Her eyes were alight with happiness, genuinely looking forward to more time spent with him and his family.
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May 26, 2019 22:11:24 GMT
Posted In Long Awaited on May 26, 2019 22:11:24 GMT
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There was an expectation.
When she had been in Colchis, she had only spent the first night feeling like she had to keep decorum. The Kotas men hadn’t exactly allowed her to keep it up for long. And having spent 2 weeks in their home, in their company, she had no choice but to let down proprietary and open up a bit. And after walking in on him half naked in the middle of the night, it had been hard for them to pretend like being proper was necessary. He had asked that she be honest with him when they were alone, and she hadn’t minded the idea. It was easier to let her walls down and accept him for what he was. And he seemed to do the same for her.
It was refreshing.
But here, she could not do that. Not only because she was in her uncle’s home, where his expectations of her as a hostess were high. But because she was required to set the example. As the eldest, she had to show those in the room that she was refined and poised. Selene could do that, had to do that. And she didn’t want her uncle to try and further influence her relationship. A crown prince was the most desirable match she could make. And no matter how much she wanted him as a friend, if her uncle had his way, they would have been engaged by the end of the night.
Although she was fairly certain that her uncle was well aware that they were friends, at the least.
Where she would have brightened at the initial agreement to ride, she hid her excitement. Instead, her cheeks flushed and she smiled. ”I shall make sure my schedule is empty, my lord.” Her promise was said over the course, and from their, the conversation moved on. But there was a warmth in her heart, and joy over the chance to show her strength to him. She highly respect his opinion, and a part of her hand wondered if people just complimented her ability because she was both said to be blessed by Aphrodite and because she was a Leventi. He would be blunt with her if she was not. But she knew that if he hadn’t wished to ride, he would have said so. Vangelis was not a man who did things because he felt obligated.
Selene has tried, and failed, to stir the conversation away from the obvious inquiries into something less… obvious. And, like he had expected it, the prince had done is best to answer the question without insulting the host. She could see what he would be like in court, skillful and matter of fact. A part of her longed to see it, to watch him handle the nobles she had considered just as pretentious and fake as he did. There was a quiet joy in seeing him like this, aware of the motives and yet unperturbed by them. Her heart warmed a bit, glad that he was the honest man she had thought him to be.
As the meal concluded and the men lingered towards conversation, Selene and the other ladies retired the parlor towards the front of the house. But within minutes of that, she was left alone as her aunt needed to supervise the clean up and her cousins didn’t wish to be a bother. She found herself staring out a nearby window, wondering what life was going to bring. She hadn’t counted on any of this, and found herself deeply enjoying whatever moments of his company she could find. As soon as she heard the door open, she was focused back on the men as her uncle pressed her to escort him back out for the evening.
It wasn’t until they were alone, her arm woven through his, that she allowed herself to look up at him. And she stayed quiet until they were a distance from the house before speaking. ”I hope everything was to your liking, my… I mean, Vangelis.” Her cheeks flushed, reminding her that he had insisted on first names when they were alone. ”I am sure you had other things you wished to do tonight, regardless of your desires not to offend your host. But I must confess that I was most content with your company. Even at their finest, my cousins are not the easiest to spark up conversation with.” She was certain it was due to some animosity because of her unmarried status and her looks. ”And, now that we are alone, I can confess that I am most excited for our ride.” There seemed to be bounce in her step, the same one that had been there the day she’d gifted him with his horse. ”I have not had much chance to ride since being home, and even less company to so with. I am happy you are fit enough to oblige me on it.”
Her eyes were alight with happiness, genuinely looking forward to more time spent with him and his family.
There was an expectation.
When she had been in Colchis, she had only spent the first night feeling like she had to keep decorum. The Kotas men hadn’t exactly allowed her to keep it up for long. And having spent 2 weeks in their home, in their company, she had no choice but to let down proprietary and open up a bit. And after walking in on him half naked in the middle of the night, it had been hard for them to pretend like being proper was necessary. He had asked that she be honest with him when they were alone, and she hadn’t minded the idea. It was easier to let her walls down and accept him for what he was. And he seemed to do the same for her.
It was refreshing.
But here, she could not do that. Not only because she was in her uncle’s home, where his expectations of her as a hostess were high. But because she was required to set the example. As the eldest, she had to show those in the room that she was refined and poised. Selene could do that, had to do that. And she didn’t want her uncle to try and further influence her relationship. A crown prince was the most desirable match she could make. And no matter how much she wanted him as a friend, if her uncle had his way, they would have been engaged by the end of the night.
Although she was fairly certain that her uncle was well aware that they were friends, at the least.
Where she would have brightened at the initial agreement to ride, she hid her excitement. Instead, her cheeks flushed and she smiled. ”I shall make sure my schedule is empty, my lord.” Her promise was said over the course, and from their, the conversation moved on. But there was a warmth in her heart, and joy over the chance to show her strength to him. She highly respect his opinion, and a part of her hand wondered if people just complimented her ability because she was both said to be blessed by Aphrodite and because she was a Leventi. He would be blunt with her if she was not. But she knew that if he hadn’t wished to ride, he would have said so. Vangelis was not a man who did things because he felt obligated.
Selene has tried, and failed, to stir the conversation away from the obvious inquiries into something less… obvious. And, like he had expected it, the prince had done is best to answer the question without insulting the host. She could see what he would be like in court, skillful and matter of fact. A part of her longed to see it, to watch him handle the nobles she had considered just as pretentious and fake as he did. There was a quiet joy in seeing him like this, aware of the motives and yet unperturbed by them. Her heart warmed a bit, glad that he was the honest man she had thought him to be.
As the meal concluded and the men lingered towards conversation, Selene and the other ladies retired the parlor towards the front of the house. But within minutes of that, she was left alone as her aunt needed to supervise the clean up and her cousins didn’t wish to be a bother. She found herself staring out a nearby window, wondering what life was going to bring. She hadn’t counted on any of this, and found herself deeply enjoying whatever moments of his company she could find. As soon as she heard the door open, she was focused back on the men as her uncle pressed her to escort him back out for the evening.
It wasn’t until they were alone, her arm woven through his, that she allowed herself to look up at him. And she stayed quiet until they were a distance from the house before speaking. ”I hope everything was to your liking, my… I mean, Vangelis.” Her cheeks flushed, reminding her that he had insisted on first names when they were alone. ”I am sure you had other things you wished to do tonight, regardless of your desires not to offend your host. But I must confess that I was most content with your company. Even at their finest, my cousins are not the easiest to spark up conversation with.” She was certain it was due to some animosity because of her unmarried status and her looks. ”And, now that we are alone, I can confess that I am most excited for our ride.” There seemed to be bounce in her step, the same one that had been there the day she’d gifted him with his horse. ”I have not had much chance to ride since being home, and even less company to so with. I am happy you are fit enough to oblige me on it.”
Her eyes were alight with happiness, genuinely looking forward to more time spent with him and his family.
As the two of them moved down the main pathway, directly leading from the Leventi manor's doors to the front gate, Vangelis felt the chill in the night air cross over his arms. The cold raised the hairs and sent his skin into gooseflesh and he felt a spark of irritation that the Lord Leventi had instructed his niece to accompany him outside when she was wearing far thinner raiment than he. He pushed it to the back of his mind, however, for he was neither Selene's spouse nor guardian and had no right to decide how she was instructed or raised.
Instead, he focused on her words, distracting himself with the lilting melody of her voice in the darkness. She was still speaking with that same tone of formality as she had inside, despite the use of his name, and he wondered if she even noticed. He suspected it took a few minutes each time for her discourse to match the setting when she was allowed to be informal; so fair a thing for a high-class lady of the Taengean court. He shook his head politely when she offered that the meal had not been too strenuous and didn't respond when she mentioned about him having other things he would likely have preferred to do with his evening.
It was as they were reaching the side of his mount and the stable hands were waved away upon surrendering the reins to him that Selene mentioned enjoying the idea of a ride. Vangelis felt his mouth twist into that half smile, as he took hold of the creature and swung up onto the animal's back. He looked down at Selene from his perch as the horse stepped for a moment under his hand.
"I find myself just as eager." He told her with simplicity. "Your grace and propriety, Lady Selene is well renowned and I've never seen it fail to meet expectation." His eyes narrowed as his mouth twisted in an almost devilish expression. "I'm rather curious to see what happens when the etiquette is dropped and you're allowed... free rein... so to speak." He told her, and with a kick to the gelding's sides, Vangelis set off down the street, his gaze forward but his expression still one of contentment.
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May 26, 2019 22:11:45 GMT
Posted In Long Awaited on May 26, 2019 22:11:45 GMT
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As the two of them moved down the main pathway, directly leading from the Leventi manor's doors to the front gate, Vangelis felt the chill in the night air cross over his arms. The cold raised the hairs and sent his skin into gooseflesh and he felt a spark of irritation that the Lord Leventi had instructed his niece to accompany him outside when she was wearing far thinner raiment than he. He pushed it to the back of his mind, however, for he was neither Selene's spouse nor guardian and had no right to decide how she was instructed or raised.
Instead, he focused on her words, distracting himself with the lilting melody of her voice in the darkness. She was still speaking with that same tone of formality as she had inside, despite the use of his name, and he wondered if she even noticed. He suspected it took a few minutes each time for her discourse to match the setting when she was allowed to be informal; so fair a thing for a high-class lady of the Taengean court. He shook his head politely when she offered that the meal had not been too strenuous and didn't respond when she mentioned about him having other things he would likely have preferred to do with his evening.
It was as they were reaching the side of his mount and the stable hands were waved away upon surrendering the reins to him that Selene mentioned enjoying the idea of a ride. Vangelis felt his mouth twist into that half smile, as he took hold of the creature and swung up onto the animal's back. He looked down at Selene from his perch as the horse stepped for a moment under his hand.
"I find myself just as eager." He told her with simplicity. "Your grace and propriety, Lady Selene is well renowned and I've never seen it fail to meet expectation." His eyes narrowed as his mouth twisted in an almost devilish expression. "I'm rather curious to see what happens when the etiquette is dropped and you're allowed... free rein... so to speak." He told her, and with a kick to the gelding's sides, Vangelis set off down the street, his gaze forward but his expression still one of contentment.
As the two of them moved down the main pathway, directly leading from the Leventi manor's doors to the front gate, Vangelis felt the chill in the night air cross over his arms. The cold raised the hairs and sent his skin into gooseflesh and he felt a spark of irritation that the Lord Leventi had instructed his niece to accompany him outside when she was wearing far thinner raiment than he. He pushed it to the back of his mind, however, for he was neither Selene's spouse nor guardian and had no right to decide how she was instructed or raised.
Instead, he focused on her words, distracting himself with the lilting melody of her voice in the darkness. She was still speaking with that same tone of formality as she had inside, despite the use of his name, and he wondered if she even noticed. He suspected it took a few minutes each time for her discourse to match the setting when she was allowed to be informal; so fair a thing for a high-class lady of the Taengean court. He shook his head politely when she offered that the meal had not been too strenuous and didn't respond when she mentioned about him having other things he would likely have preferred to do with his evening.
It was as they were reaching the side of his mount and the stable hands were waved away upon surrendering the reins to him that Selene mentioned enjoying the idea of a ride. Vangelis felt his mouth twist into that half smile, as he took hold of the creature and swung up onto the animal's back. He looked down at Selene from his perch as the horse stepped for a moment under his hand.
"I find myself just as eager." He told her with simplicity. "Your grace and propriety, Lady Selene is well renowned and I've never seen it fail to meet expectation." His eyes narrowed as his mouth twisted in an almost devilish expression. "I'm rather curious to see what happens when the etiquette is dropped and you're allowed... free rein... so to speak." He told her, and with a kick to the gelding's sides, Vangelis set off down the street, his gaze forward but his expression still one of contentment.
