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For the second day of the Festival of Dionysus, social matriarch of the Leventi family has put together a large dining festivities in honour of the event. As is her annual custom, the Lady Evelli has arranged the Leventi manor into a place of elegant deviation with indulgences around every corner. Fine foods carried on trays by young adonis servants in loincloths, musicians and dancers from exotic lands in every alcove, the famous pool of tranquility - the large reflecting pool in the center of the Leventi property surrounded by candle-light and canopied by sheer fabric, thin enough to see the stars. The evening will begin with a fine feast, with guests reposed over sofas and cushions, with only the need to be behest their favourite treat, and the evening will conclude with a dramatic production in the Leventi's largest entertainment fall. As night falls and the lanterns in the gardens are lit, the Leventi house and it's grounds will be staying open late into the night. Rumours and whispers are buzzing around the Taengean court as this will be the first formal, large-scale social event since tales of King Minas of Athenia's illness became common knowledge. Lady Evelli is nothing if not diligent in her ability to organise a party and has ensured the invites to royals in foreign kingdoms went out weeks ago, allowing all enough time to attend her marvelous annual celebrations; it is, after all the event of the season...
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For the second day of the Festival of Dionysus, social matriarch of the Leventi family has put together a large dining festivities in honour of the event. As is her annual custom, the Lady Evelli has arranged the Leventi manor into a place of elegant deviation with indulgences around every corner. Fine foods carried on trays by young adonis servants in loincloths, musicians and dancers from exotic lands in every alcove, the famous pool of tranquility - the large reflecting pool in the center of the Leventi property surrounded by candle-light and canopied by sheer fabric, thin enough to see the stars. The evening will begin with a fine feast, with guests reposed over sofas and cushions, with only the need to be behest their favourite treat, and the evening will conclude with a dramatic production in the Leventi's largest entertainment fall. As night falls and the lanterns in the gardens are lit, the Leventi house and it's grounds will be staying open late into the night. Rumours and whispers are buzzing around the Taengean court as this will be the first formal, large-scale social event since tales of King Minas of Athenia's illness became common knowledge. Lady Evelli is nothing if not diligent in her ability to organise a party and has ensured the invites to royals in foreign kingdoms went out weeks ago, allowing all enough time to attend her marvelous annual celebrations; it is, after all the event of the season...
Fine Dining Event - Taengea
For the second day of the Festival of Dionysus, social matriarch of the Leventi family has put together a large dining festivities in honour of the event. As is her annual custom, the Lady Evelli has arranged the Leventi manor into a place of elegant deviation with indulgences around every corner. Fine foods carried on trays by young adonis servants in loincloths, musicians and dancers from exotic lands in every alcove, the famous pool of tranquility - the large reflecting pool in the center of the Leventi property surrounded by candle-light and canopied by sheer fabric, thin enough to see the stars. The evening will begin with a fine feast, with guests reposed over sofas and cushions, with only the need to be behest their favourite treat, and the evening will conclude with a dramatic production in the Leventi's largest entertainment fall. As night falls and the lanterns in the gardens are lit, the Leventi house and it's grounds will be staying open late into the night. Rumours and whispers are buzzing around the Taengean court as this will be the first formal, large-scale social event since tales of King Minas of Athenia's illness became common knowledge. Lady Evelli is nothing if not diligent in her ability to organise a party and has ensured the invites to royals in foreign kingdoms went out weeks ago, allowing all enough time to attend her marvelous annual celebrations; it is, after all the event of the season...
Vangelis felt... severely under-dressed. He was also angry at his mother. He had not been told that he would be attending a noble function. He had not been informed that he would be arriving in Taengea in the middle of the Festival of Dionysus. Okay, that second one he could have learned for himself had he withdrew his head from his work for a moment and bothered to check a calendar. That being said, he had been relying on talks with the Taengean king regarding ore and weapon shipments, plus his lacking of suitable attire to be both genuine and valid reasons for his refusal to attend the Leventi's event.
Instead, the Mikaelidas family had made the royal decision to postpone their talks until the following day in order to attend the celebrations of the family that Lord Achilleas was marrying into and his mother - how and when he had no idea - had packed one of his togas into his travel case. Along with one of his smaller crowns. And so, attend he had to.
Arriving at the Leventi mansion was not hard as he was staying just across the Quarter at the royal palace. Somehow - for it couldn't be through pure ambition - the Leventi's had managed to build their mansion as close as possible to the Mikaelidas' royal home, without actually starting constructing on the palace grounds. So, he had very little journey to make in order to arrive on time.
Always hating to wear the formal robes of a prince, Vangelis was dressed in a full length, double-shouldered toga, with a half cloak sewn into its back. The deep crimson of the cloak began at his shoulders, looped down and around at the small of his back and then hung to his feet, kissing the edge of the white toga beneath. He had changed his large boots to sandals strapped, wrapped and tied to the knee and wore his normal affects - his signet and house rings and his father's necklace. On his head - the hair on which he had dined to brush for the occasion (not that it made much of a difference to his neatly clipped, thick brunette curls) - he wore one of the three crowns the heir to the Colchian throne possessed. This one was affectionately known as the "travel crown" by his youngest sister and involved a band of gold, an inch in thickness, wrapping around his head in a complete circle, with periodic little points breaking it's smooth edge all the way around. The was a deep red blood gem - on of the symbols of Colchis, set into the band at the four compass points of the ring.
Vangelis felt like a trussed up war horse.
Already in a bad mood and with a scowl firmly in place, he took a steadying breath as he stepped into the main hall of the Leventi home and adjusted the leather braces at his wrists.
"Announcing Prince Vangelis of Kotas. Heir of Colchis."
The voice of the announcer echoed around the room despite the gossiping hubbub of the guests and Vangelis ignored the glances his way as he descended the shallow steps into the room.
He recognised most of the people in the place and, as was appropriate, moved to greet the Lady Evelli of Leventi, hostess and matriarch of the house.
"Your Majesty..." The woman greeted demurely, her eyes sharp and her hand firm as she held it out; palm down, fingers limp. "Such an honour to have you with us this evening. I had not known if you would make the trip simply for our little get together." She fluttered a hand around the room as if the event she had clearly spent months preparing was naught more than a few friends over for a glass of goat's milk. At the same time, he noticed her eyes making a wide sweep of the room and Vangelis wondered how many of her daughters she was trying to find in that moment.
Vangelis might have detested the conniving ways of courtly women, but he wasn't blind to them either. And rumour had it that Lady Selene was the great beauty of Greece. Perhaps he might take the time to meet her later...
"The magnanimity is all yours Lady Leventi for your gracious invitation." He commented and, after a brush of his lips to the back of her upraised hand, he let her go and stepped away, feigning the need of a cup of wine. If she so wished to believe he had travelled solely for her little party, he would let her.
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May 27, 2019 11:03:58 GMT
Posted In Fine Dining on May 27, 2019 11:03:58 GMT
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Vangelis felt... severely under-dressed. He was also angry at his mother. He had not been told that he would be attending a noble function. He had not been informed that he would be arriving in Taengea in the middle of the Festival of Dionysus. Okay, that second one he could have learned for himself had he withdrew his head from his work for a moment and bothered to check a calendar. That being said, he had been relying on talks with the Taengean king regarding ore and weapon shipments, plus his lacking of suitable attire to be both genuine and valid reasons for his refusal to attend the Leventi's event.
Instead, the Mikaelidas family had made the royal decision to postpone their talks until the following day in order to attend the celebrations of the family that Lord Achilleas was marrying into and his mother - how and when he had no idea - had packed one of his togas into his travel case. Along with one of his smaller crowns. And so, attend he had to.
Arriving at the Leventi mansion was not hard as he was staying just across the Quarter at the royal palace. Somehow - for it couldn't be through pure ambition - the Leventi's had managed to build their mansion as close as possible to the Mikaelidas' royal home, without actually starting constructing on the palace grounds. So, he had very little journey to make in order to arrive on time.
Always hating to wear the formal robes of a prince, Vangelis was dressed in a full length, double-shouldered toga, with a half cloak sewn into its back. The deep crimson of the cloak began at his shoulders, looped down and around at the small of his back and then hung to his feet, kissing the edge of the white toga beneath. He had changed his large boots to sandals strapped, wrapped and tied to the knee and wore his normal affects - his signet and house rings and his father's necklace. On his head - the hair on which he had dined to brush for the occasion (not that it made much of a difference to his neatly clipped, thick brunette curls) - he wore one of the three crowns the heir to the Colchian throne possessed. This one was affectionately known as the "travel crown" by his youngest sister and involved a band of gold, an inch in thickness, wrapping around his head in a complete circle, with periodic little points breaking it's smooth edge all the way around. The was a deep red blood gem - on of the symbols of Colchis, set into the band at the four compass points of the ring.
Vangelis felt like a trussed up war horse.
Already in a bad mood and with a scowl firmly in place, he took a steadying breath as he stepped into the main hall of the Leventi home and adjusted the leather braces at his wrists.
"Announcing Prince Vangelis of Kotas. Heir of Colchis."
The voice of the announcer echoed around the room despite the gossiping hubbub of the guests and Vangelis ignored the glances his way as he descended the shallow steps into the room.
He recognised most of the people in the place and, as was appropriate, moved to greet the Lady Evelli of Leventi, hostess and matriarch of the house.
"Your Majesty..." The woman greeted demurely, her eyes sharp and her hand firm as she held it out; palm down, fingers limp. "Such an honour to have you with us this evening. I had not known if you would make the trip simply for our little get together." She fluttered a hand around the room as if the event she had clearly spent months preparing was naught more than a few friends over for a glass of goat's milk. At the same time, he noticed her eyes making a wide sweep of the room and Vangelis wondered how many of her daughters she was trying to find in that moment.
Vangelis might have detested the conniving ways of courtly women, but he wasn't blind to them either. And rumour had it that Lady Selene was the great beauty of Greece. Perhaps he might take the time to meet her later...
"The magnanimity is all yours Lady Leventi for your gracious invitation." He commented and, after a brush of his lips to the back of her upraised hand, he let her go and stepped away, feigning the need of a cup of wine. If she so wished to believe he had travelled solely for her little party, he would let her.
Vangelis felt... severely under-dressed. He was also angry at his mother. He had not been told that he would be attending a noble function. He had not been informed that he would be arriving in Taengea in the middle of the Festival of Dionysus. Okay, that second one he could have learned for himself had he withdrew his head from his work for a moment and bothered to check a calendar. That being said, he had been relying on talks with the Taengean king regarding ore and weapon shipments, plus his lacking of suitable attire to be both genuine and valid reasons for his refusal to attend the Leventi's event.
Instead, the Mikaelidas family had made the royal decision to postpone their talks until the following day in order to attend the celebrations of the family that Lord Achilleas was marrying into and his mother - how and when he had no idea - had packed one of his togas into his travel case. Along with one of his smaller crowns. And so, attend he had to.
Arriving at the Leventi mansion was not hard as he was staying just across the Quarter at the royal palace. Somehow - for it couldn't be through pure ambition - the Leventi's had managed to build their mansion as close as possible to the Mikaelidas' royal home, without actually starting constructing on the palace grounds. So, he had very little journey to make in order to arrive on time.
Always hating to wear the formal robes of a prince, Vangelis was dressed in a full length, double-shouldered toga, with a half cloak sewn into its back. The deep crimson of the cloak began at his shoulders, looped down and around at the small of his back and then hung to his feet, kissing the edge of the white toga beneath. He had changed his large boots to sandals strapped, wrapped and tied to the knee and wore his normal affects - his signet and house rings and his father's necklace. On his head - the hair on which he had dined to brush for the occasion (not that it made much of a difference to his neatly clipped, thick brunette curls) - he wore one of the three crowns the heir to the Colchian throne possessed. This one was affectionately known as the "travel crown" by his youngest sister and involved a band of gold, an inch in thickness, wrapping around his head in a complete circle, with periodic little points breaking it's smooth edge all the way around. The was a deep red blood gem - on of the symbols of Colchis, set into the band at the four compass points of the ring.
Vangelis felt like a trussed up war horse.
Already in a bad mood and with a scowl firmly in place, he took a steadying breath as he stepped into the main hall of the Leventi home and adjusted the leather braces at his wrists.
"Announcing Prince Vangelis of Kotas. Heir of Colchis."
The voice of the announcer echoed around the room despite the gossiping hubbub of the guests and Vangelis ignored the glances his way as he descended the shallow steps into the room.
He recognised most of the people in the place and, as was appropriate, moved to greet the Lady Evelli of Leventi, hostess and matriarch of the house.
"Your Majesty..." The woman greeted demurely, her eyes sharp and her hand firm as she held it out; palm down, fingers limp. "Such an honour to have you with us this evening. I had not known if you would make the trip simply for our little get together." She fluttered a hand around the room as if the event she had clearly spent months preparing was naught more than a few friends over for a glass of goat's milk. At the same time, he noticed her eyes making a wide sweep of the room and Vangelis wondered how many of her daughters she was trying to find in that moment.
Vangelis might have detested the conniving ways of courtly women, but he wasn't blind to them either. And rumour had it that Lady Selene was the great beauty of Greece. Perhaps he might take the time to meet her later...
"The magnanimity is all yours Lady Leventi for your gracious invitation." He commented and, after a brush of his lips to the back of her upraised hand, he let her go and stepped away, feigning the need of a cup of wine. If she so wished to believe he had travelled solely for her little party, he would let her.
Stephanos sat in the far corner of the room on a slightly raised platform upon which sat several couches and a small table laden with trays of fruit and bread. Goblets of wine also littered its surface, though his was in his hand and the second he’d had that evening thus far. His elder brother, Zacharias, his father, and his younger sister, Xene occupied the couch to his left while his mother shared the couch he reclined on. She was perched at the end, speaking animatedly to an elderly woman on the couch across from them whose name he could not now remember.
Movement at the door at the front of the room caught his eye. From here, he had a perfect view of who came and went from the Leventi house. Vangelis appeared, looking stiff and ill at ease. Stephanos idly wondered if the man was ever comfortable anywhere. At that moment, Zacharias stood abruptly, having seen Vangelis too. His father stood with him, the two of them exchanging a glance. Stephanos looked back at Vangelis but he’d melted into the crowd already.
“What’s wrong?” he sat up, starting to rise too but his brother shook his head. He frowned, watching the two of them thread their way through the crowd and out into the dark on the patio, well out of his hearing. Xene, his sister, still sat on the same couch that Zacharias had just left and he narrowed his eyes at her in a silent question, asking if she knew what was going on. His mother held up her hand to the woman to stop her for a moment and leaned over to him.
“Don’t worry yourself. They’re worried about a senate vote.” With that said, she turned away from him again and struck back up her conversation, ignoring him completely. Stephanos exhaled a long sigh as he lifted the goblet to his mouth. Senate vote. His mother must have thought him very simple. There had to be a reason that Zacharias had ordered him to meet Vangelis at the docks this afternoon and then he and his father also abruptly leave the room once the man walked in?
His gaze was still on his brother’s back as he and his father disappeared into the night.
At last he stopped watching them and looked idly around for entertainment outside of his family. There was some to be had, certainly. Dancers waved their arms and writhed their bodies in every corner and alcove of the house. Lutes and lyres filled the room with music, enchanting and designed specifically to encourage drink and lascivious thoughts. This was his favorite festival.
His mother paid him no heed when he sat up to look at Xene. She had to know more about what was going on with their brother than he did. Or at least he hoped she did. Information tended to find its way into her hands more than his when it came to matters of politics.
He glanced at his mother and then switched couches so that he could sit next to Xene without having to shout over the murmuring voices of the room and the music floating overhead. “Zacharias has been acting strange,” he stretched out his arm on the couch behind her and leaned in close so that only she would be able to hear him. “I suppose you heard he had me meet with Vangelis of Colchis this afternoon.” The sentence hung in the air between them as he looked around again, his eye catching one of the dancers for the moment. When next he spoke, he was not looking at his sister. “A little odd, don’t you think? Given how important the trade for weapons is?”
His eyes drifted away from the dancer and over to Vangelis, who looked for all the world like he’d rather be anywhere else. Stephanos grinned and pointed him out to Xene. “See Vangelis over there? He’s the big one. No smile. I uh, I think Zacharias might want to take over negotiations tomorrow, if tonight goes as well as this afternoon.” He hadn’t seen Xene since he’d been there to welcome Vangelis off the boat. Briefly he described the encounter, laughing by the end.
“I wish you’d seen his face. Actually, you know what? I think I can make him do it again. Follow me,” he said, making to grab her hand and drag her up off the couch. “You’ll see what I mean.”
They threaded through the crowd, side stepping this cousin, saying hello to that senator before they were finally next to Vangelis. Stephanos still had his wine goblet in one hand and Xene’s in his other, grinning at the other man as though he knew a vicious secret.
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May 27, 2019 11:05:16 GMT
Posted In Fine Dining on May 27, 2019 11:05:16 GMT
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Stephanos sat in the far corner of the room on a slightly raised platform upon which sat several couches and a small table laden with trays of fruit and bread. Goblets of wine also littered its surface, though his was in his hand and the second he’d had that evening thus far. His elder brother, Zacharias, his father, and his younger sister, Xene occupied the couch to his left while his mother shared the couch he reclined on. She was perched at the end, speaking animatedly to an elderly woman on the couch across from them whose name he could not now remember.
Movement at the door at the front of the room caught his eye. From here, he had a perfect view of who came and went from the Leventi house. Vangelis appeared, looking stiff and ill at ease. Stephanos idly wondered if the man was ever comfortable anywhere. At that moment, Zacharias stood abruptly, having seen Vangelis too. His father stood with him, the two of them exchanging a glance. Stephanos looked back at Vangelis but he’d melted into the crowd already.
“What’s wrong?” he sat up, starting to rise too but his brother shook his head. He frowned, watching the two of them thread their way through the crowd and out into the dark on the patio, well out of his hearing. Xene, his sister, still sat on the same couch that Zacharias had just left and he narrowed his eyes at her in a silent question, asking if she knew what was going on. His mother held up her hand to the woman to stop her for a moment and leaned over to him.
“Don’t worry yourself. They’re worried about a senate vote.” With that said, she turned away from him again and struck back up her conversation, ignoring him completely. Stephanos exhaled a long sigh as he lifted the goblet to his mouth. Senate vote. His mother must have thought him very simple. There had to be a reason that Zacharias had ordered him to meet Vangelis at the docks this afternoon and then he and his father also abruptly leave the room once the man walked in?
His gaze was still on his brother’s back as he and his father disappeared into the night.
At last he stopped watching them and looked idly around for entertainment outside of his family. There was some to be had, certainly. Dancers waved their arms and writhed their bodies in every corner and alcove of the house. Lutes and lyres filled the room with music, enchanting and designed specifically to encourage drink and lascivious thoughts. This was his favorite festival.
His mother paid him no heed when he sat up to look at Xene. She had to know more about what was going on with their brother than he did. Or at least he hoped she did. Information tended to find its way into her hands more than his when it came to matters of politics.
He glanced at his mother and then switched couches so that he could sit next to Xene without having to shout over the murmuring voices of the room and the music floating overhead. “Zacharias has been acting strange,” he stretched out his arm on the couch behind her and leaned in close so that only she would be able to hear him. “I suppose you heard he had me meet with Vangelis of Colchis this afternoon.” The sentence hung in the air between them as he looked around again, his eye catching one of the dancers for the moment. When next he spoke, he was not looking at his sister. “A little odd, don’t you think? Given how important the trade for weapons is?”
His eyes drifted away from the dancer and over to Vangelis, who looked for all the world like he’d rather be anywhere else. Stephanos grinned and pointed him out to Xene. “See Vangelis over there? He’s the big one. No smile. I uh, I think Zacharias might want to take over negotiations tomorrow, if tonight goes as well as this afternoon.” He hadn’t seen Xene since he’d been there to welcome Vangelis off the boat. Briefly he described the encounter, laughing by the end.
“I wish you’d seen his face. Actually, you know what? I think I can make him do it again. Follow me,” he said, making to grab her hand and drag her up off the couch. “You’ll see what I mean.”
They threaded through the crowd, side stepping this cousin, saying hello to that senator before they were finally next to Vangelis. Stephanos still had his wine goblet in one hand and Xene’s in his other, grinning at the other man as though he knew a vicious secret.
Stephanos sat in the far corner of the room on a slightly raised platform upon which sat several couches and a small table laden with trays of fruit and bread. Goblets of wine also littered its surface, though his was in his hand and the second he’d had that evening thus far. His elder brother, Zacharias, his father, and his younger sister, Xene occupied the couch to his left while his mother shared the couch he reclined on. She was perched at the end, speaking animatedly to an elderly woman on the couch across from them whose name he could not now remember.
Movement at the door at the front of the room caught his eye. From here, he had a perfect view of who came and went from the Leventi house. Vangelis appeared, looking stiff and ill at ease. Stephanos idly wondered if the man was ever comfortable anywhere. At that moment, Zacharias stood abruptly, having seen Vangelis too. His father stood with him, the two of them exchanging a glance. Stephanos looked back at Vangelis but he’d melted into the crowd already.
“What’s wrong?” he sat up, starting to rise too but his brother shook his head. He frowned, watching the two of them thread their way through the crowd and out into the dark on the patio, well out of his hearing. Xene, his sister, still sat on the same couch that Zacharias had just left and he narrowed his eyes at her in a silent question, asking if she knew what was going on. His mother held up her hand to the woman to stop her for a moment and leaned over to him.
“Don’t worry yourself. They’re worried about a senate vote.” With that said, she turned away from him again and struck back up her conversation, ignoring him completely. Stephanos exhaled a long sigh as he lifted the goblet to his mouth. Senate vote. His mother must have thought him very simple. There had to be a reason that Zacharias had ordered him to meet Vangelis at the docks this afternoon and then he and his father also abruptly leave the room once the man walked in?
His gaze was still on his brother’s back as he and his father disappeared into the night.
At last he stopped watching them and looked idly around for entertainment outside of his family. There was some to be had, certainly. Dancers waved their arms and writhed their bodies in every corner and alcove of the house. Lutes and lyres filled the room with music, enchanting and designed specifically to encourage drink and lascivious thoughts. This was his favorite festival.
His mother paid him no heed when he sat up to look at Xene. She had to know more about what was going on with their brother than he did. Or at least he hoped she did. Information tended to find its way into her hands more than his when it came to matters of politics.
He glanced at his mother and then switched couches so that he could sit next to Xene without having to shout over the murmuring voices of the room and the music floating overhead. “Zacharias has been acting strange,” he stretched out his arm on the couch behind her and leaned in close so that only she would be able to hear him. “I suppose you heard he had me meet with Vangelis of Colchis this afternoon.” The sentence hung in the air between them as he looked around again, his eye catching one of the dancers for the moment. When next he spoke, he was not looking at his sister. “A little odd, don’t you think? Given how important the trade for weapons is?”
His eyes drifted away from the dancer and over to Vangelis, who looked for all the world like he’d rather be anywhere else. Stephanos grinned and pointed him out to Xene. “See Vangelis over there? He’s the big one. No smile. I uh, I think Zacharias might want to take over negotiations tomorrow, if tonight goes as well as this afternoon.” He hadn’t seen Xene since he’d been there to welcome Vangelis off the boat. Briefly he described the encounter, laughing by the end.
“I wish you’d seen his face. Actually, you know what? I think I can make him do it again. Follow me,” he said, making to grab her hand and drag her up off the couch. “You’ll see what I mean.”
They threaded through the crowd, side stepping this cousin, saying hello to that senator before they were finally next to Vangelis. Stephanos still had his wine goblet in one hand and Xene’s in his other, grinning at the other man as though he knew a vicious secret.
Xene watched her brother and father leave, pursing her lips. Ignorant. She met her brother's gaze briefly, and then, her gaze was drawn towards the newest arrival, Vangelis. It was not a coincidence that the two men left, as Vangelis entered. She shook her head at their lack of subtlety, and caught her brother's eye.
Her mother's statement only caused her to scoff, and watch Vangelis melt into the crowd. Briefly, wandering brown hues watched the patio, though she could not see her brother and her father. A quick shake of her head, she focused on one of the dancers nearest to her, humming thoughtfully to herself. She had yet to practice her newest dance--
Then, she was staring up at Stephanos, narrowing her eyes. "Very odd, brother dearest. We can discuss how to go about the trade, back home." Where nobody could hear her giving her brother advice. It was no secret within the family, that Xene did not always support her eldest brother's agenda. She often thought he went about things wrong--though, she thought the same of her father. While they preferred brawn to brain, Xene liked peaceful negotiation, over-requesting items, so that when you bargained you got the exact amount you had originally wanted. She was sly, and easily pleased when someone took her advice; heard her opinion. She reached to tap the center of his forehead, murmuring, "Your attention needs to stay on me, when you are speaking to me, Stephanos." Or I will not speak to you, at all. She thought, with a huff of anger. It was brief. He was good at catching to her temper, even if it was irrational.
The Princess sighed, a low sound, as her hand was claimed. "I'm coming, Stephanos! I'm coming," she straightened and followed after him, though she allowed him to guide her, for the most part. She was too busy studying the man they were going to torment. Well, Stephanos was the one who wanted to reenact the scene from earlier... Xene was just a bystander, this time. Why he found it amusing, she was not sure. If anything, her brother needed to keep Vangelis in his good graces--or was it the other way around? The thought was muddled, and she simply shook it away.
As the two of them neared the Prince of Colchis, she did not bow, nor offer an introduction, if anything... Xene simply gave him a once-over glance, and released her brother's hand. After a moment to study the man, she spoke up, "It is a great pleasure to meet you, Prince Vangelis. I do hope that your time, thus far, has been comfortable." She cast a look to her brother, sharp-eyed, narrowed. "And I implore you to forgive anything my brother may have done to upset you."
Apologies were not Xene's thing. They always came off as too formal, or too informal. Music, and singing, and poetry--all of the arts--that was what Xene excelled at. Well, aside from trying vehemently to get the men in her family to listen to her opinion on politics. She smiled a pleasant smile, and spoke up, "Was it not sweet of Lady Evelli to host us all?"
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Xene watched her brother and father leave, pursing her lips. Ignorant. She met her brother's gaze briefly, and then, her gaze was drawn towards the newest arrival, Vangelis. It was not a coincidence that the two men left, as Vangelis entered. She shook her head at their lack of subtlety, and caught her brother's eye.
Her mother's statement only caused her to scoff, and watch Vangelis melt into the crowd. Briefly, wandering brown hues watched the patio, though she could not see her brother and her father. A quick shake of her head, she focused on one of the dancers nearest to her, humming thoughtfully to herself. She had yet to practice her newest dance--
Then, she was staring up at Stephanos, narrowing her eyes. "Very odd, brother dearest. We can discuss how to go about the trade, back home." Where nobody could hear her giving her brother advice. It was no secret within the family, that Xene did not always support her eldest brother's agenda. She often thought he went about things wrong--though, she thought the same of her father. While they preferred brawn to brain, Xene liked peaceful negotiation, over-requesting items, so that when you bargained you got the exact amount you had originally wanted. She was sly, and easily pleased when someone took her advice; heard her opinion. She reached to tap the center of his forehead, murmuring, "Your attention needs to stay on me, when you are speaking to me, Stephanos." Or I will not speak to you, at all. She thought, with a huff of anger. It was brief. He was good at catching to her temper, even if it was irrational.
The Princess sighed, a low sound, as her hand was claimed. "I'm coming, Stephanos! I'm coming," she straightened and followed after him, though she allowed him to guide her, for the most part. She was too busy studying the man they were going to torment. Well, Stephanos was the one who wanted to reenact the scene from earlier... Xene was just a bystander, this time. Why he found it amusing, she was not sure. If anything, her brother needed to keep Vangelis in his good graces--or was it the other way around? The thought was muddled, and she simply shook it away.
As the two of them neared the Prince of Colchis, she did not bow, nor offer an introduction, if anything... Xene simply gave him a once-over glance, and released her brother's hand. After a moment to study the man, she spoke up, "It is a great pleasure to meet you, Prince Vangelis. I do hope that your time, thus far, has been comfortable." She cast a look to her brother, sharp-eyed, narrowed. "And I implore you to forgive anything my brother may have done to upset you."
Apologies were not Xene's thing. They always came off as too formal, or too informal. Music, and singing, and poetry--all of the arts--that was what Xene excelled at. Well, aside from trying vehemently to get the men in her family to listen to her opinion on politics. She smiled a pleasant smile, and spoke up, "Was it not sweet of Lady Evelli to host us all?"
Xene watched her brother and father leave, pursing her lips. Ignorant. She met her brother's gaze briefly, and then, her gaze was drawn towards the newest arrival, Vangelis. It was not a coincidence that the two men left, as Vangelis entered. She shook her head at their lack of subtlety, and caught her brother's eye.
Her mother's statement only caused her to scoff, and watch Vangelis melt into the crowd. Briefly, wandering brown hues watched the patio, though she could not see her brother and her father. A quick shake of her head, she focused on one of the dancers nearest to her, humming thoughtfully to herself. She had yet to practice her newest dance--
Then, she was staring up at Stephanos, narrowing her eyes. "Very odd, brother dearest. We can discuss how to go about the trade, back home." Where nobody could hear her giving her brother advice. It was no secret within the family, that Xene did not always support her eldest brother's agenda. She often thought he went about things wrong--though, she thought the same of her father. While they preferred brawn to brain, Xene liked peaceful negotiation, over-requesting items, so that when you bargained you got the exact amount you had originally wanted. She was sly, and easily pleased when someone took her advice; heard her opinion. She reached to tap the center of his forehead, murmuring, "Your attention needs to stay on me, when you are speaking to me, Stephanos." Or I will not speak to you, at all. She thought, with a huff of anger. It was brief. He was good at catching to her temper, even if it was irrational.
The Princess sighed, a low sound, as her hand was claimed. "I'm coming, Stephanos! I'm coming," she straightened and followed after him, though she allowed him to guide her, for the most part. She was too busy studying the man they were going to torment. Well, Stephanos was the one who wanted to reenact the scene from earlier... Xene was just a bystander, this time. Why he found it amusing, she was not sure. If anything, her brother needed to keep Vangelis in his good graces--or was it the other way around? The thought was muddled, and she simply shook it away.
As the two of them neared the Prince of Colchis, she did not bow, nor offer an introduction, if anything... Xene simply gave him a once-over glance, and released her brother's hand. After a moment to study the man, she spoke up, "It is a great pleasure to meet you, Prince Vangelis. I do hope that your time, thus far, has been comfortable." She cast a look to her brother, sharp-eyed, narrowed. "And I implore you to forgive anything my brother may have done to upset you."
Apologies were not Xene's thing. They always came off as too formal, or too informal. Music, and singing, and poetry--all of the arts--that was what Xene excelled at. Well, aside from trying vehemently to get the men in her family to listen to her opinion on politics. She smiled a pleasant smile, and spoke up, "Was it not sweet of Lady Evelli to host us all?"
Vangelis was good at battles. Not war. His skills lay in assessing a battlefield, directing troops, reacting the movement of an enemy and - when necessary - storming the blood soaked earth by his own steed or boot and taking down the men in his solders' path. He was not the calculating mind behind war strategy. Never had he enjoyed standing around a table and deciding the lives of fathers and sons by the simple shift and pull of wooden totems over a map.
That was how he felt in social situations.
His battle-hardened gaze and sharp attention to detail spotted Prince Stephanos and a beautiful and dignified young woman - whom he could only assume to be his sister Princess Xene - standing and starting to make their way through the crowd. Used to peering through smoke and darkness and occasionally his own blood, it was easy to pick up the movement and colour of the two golden siblings meandering their way between the guests, smiling and nodding to all those that approached them, but expertly managing to continue on their way without offence.
Spotting them and their behaviour was not a trial or difficulty. Liaising with them on a social political front and assessing and speculating why they seemed to be heading in his direction, or what they might want to discuss with him beyond tomorrow's weapons negotiations? That was understanding why the little wooden pieces were moving across the map. And it was not his forte.
Taking a fortifying sip of wine - his first from the cup - he turned to face the approaching prince and princess. No sense in pretending he didn't see them or had not worked out their trajectory across the room. If nothing else, Vangelis was a stout believer in refusing to play at ruses and fake innocence.
"It is a great pleasure to meet you, Prince Vangelis. I do hope that your time, thus far, has been comfortable."
The woman who spoke was of average height for her gender but her mannerisms made her seem taller. With a straight back and incredibly posture - he vaguely recalled something about one of the Mikaelidas daughters being a skilled dancer? - she held herself with an elegance and dignity that belied the look of mischief and arrogance on the face of her brother. She even had the decency to smile a little as she welcomed him to her country.
As was respectful, Vangelis placed a hand loosely over his heart and dipped at the waist, keeping direct eye contact with the young princess. His bow was appropriate for his own rank but also respectful to hers. He gave a small but genuine smile.
"Your words warm me, Princess." He responded in polite kind and upon straightening and lowering his hand, he gestured about the room, clearly indicating his movement to cover the city around them as well as the immediate structure. "Your home and nation is incredibly beautiful." He glanced at Stephanos and remembered their meeting on the docks. "I have always enjoyed attending to our annual discussions just for the opportunity to see..." His gaze slipped back to the woman he was talking to. "The jewel that is Vasiliadon."
"And I implore you to forgive anything my brother may have done to upset you."
The side of Vangelis' mouth quirked up just enough to cause a shadow in the dip of his cheek and he glanced back at Stephanos, as the Princess played - as he understood it - damage control to her brother's lack of inter-kingdom tact.
"I assure you Princess," Vangelis responded, making sure to look back at the beautiful young woman and address her properly. "It takes a great deal for my sensitives to take offence. I simply appreciate efficiency and directness." He made eye contact with the prince. "I think you should be proud of your own talents, that clearly lie elsewhere Prince Stephanos."
Vangelis drank from his cup.
"Was it not sweet of Lady Evelli to host us all?"
As Vangelis rolled his lips to clear them of wine, and set the cup onto the tray of a passing servant, whom clearly needed to purchase more clothing, he nodded with dignity to the young princess.
"Clearly." He stated. "It is rare that a Lady of stature offer celebrations in altruism." He said, absolutely believing the words he spoke but doubting that they had ever applied to Lady Evelli - the woman who seemed to be trying to auction off her daughters to the highest bidder.
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May 27, 2019 11:06:17 GMT
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Vangelis was good at battles. Not war. His skills lay in assessing a battlefield, directing troops, reacting the movement of an enemy and - when necessary - storming the blood soaked earth by his own steed or boot and taking down the men in his solders' path. He was not the calculating mind behind war strategy. Never had he enjoyed standing around a table and deciding the lives of fathers and sons by the simple shift and pull of wooden totems over a map.
That was how he felt in social situations.
His battle-hardened gaze and sharp attention to detail spotted Prince Stephanos and a beautiful and dignified young woman - whom he could only assume to be his sister Princess Xene - standing and starting to make their way through the crowd. Used to peering through smoke and darkness and occasionally his own blood, it was easy to pick up the movement and colour of the two golden siblings meandering their way between the guests, smiling and nodding to all those that approached them, but expertly managing to continue on their way without offence.
Spotting them and their behaviour was not a trial or difficulty. Liaising with them on a social political front and assessing and speculating why they seemed to be heading in his direction, or what they might want to discuss with him beyond tomorrow's weapons negotiations? That was understanding why the little wooden pieces were moving across the map. And it was not his forte.
Taking a fortifying sip of wine - his first from the cup - he turned to face the approaching prince and princess. No sense in pretending he didn't see them or had not worked out their trajectory across the room. If nothing else, Vangelis was a stout believer in refusing to play at ruses and fake innocence.
"It is a great pleasure to meet you, Prince Vangelis. I do hope that your time, thus far, has been comfortable."
The woman who spoke was of average height for her gender but her mannerisms made her seem taller. With a straight back and incredibly posture - he vaguely recalled something about one of the Mikaelidas daughters being a skilled dancer? - she held herself with an elegance and dignity that belied the look of mischief and arrogance on the face of her brother. She even had the decency to smile a little as she welcomed him to her country.
As was respectful, Vangelis placed a hand loosely over his heart and dipped at the waist, keeping direct eye contact with the young princess. His bow was appropriate for his own rank but also respectful to hers. He gave a small but genuine smile.
"Your words warm me, Princess." He responded in polite kind and upon straightening and lowering his hand, he gestured about the room, clearly indicating his movement to cover the city around them as well as the immediate structure. "Your home and nation is incredibly beautiful." He glanced at Stephanos and remembered their meeting on the docks. "I have always enjoyed attending to our annual discussions just for the opportunity to see..." His gaze slipped back to the woman he was talking to. "The jewel that is Vasiliadon."
"And I implore you to forgive anything my brother may have done to upset you."
The side of Vangelis' mouth quirked up just enough to cause a shadow in the dip of his cheek and he glanced back at Stephanos, as the Princess played - as he understood it - damage control to her brother's lack of inter-kingdom tact.
"I assure you Princess," Vangelis responded, making sure to look back at the beautiful young woman and address her properly. "It takes a great deal for my sensitives to take offence. I simply appreciate efficiency and directness." He made eye contact with the prince. "I think you should be proud of your own talents, that clearly lie elsewhere Prince Stephanos."
Vangelis drank from his cup.
"Was it not sweet of Lady Evelli to host us all?"
As Vangelis rolled his lips to clear them of wine, and set the cup onto the tray of a passing servant, whom clearly needed to purchase more clothing, he nodded with dignity to the young princess.
"Clearly." He stated. "It is rare that a Lady of stature offer celebrations in altruism." He said, absolutely believing the words he spoke but doubting that they had ever applied to Lady Evelli - the woman who seemed to be trying to auction off her daughters to the highest bidder.
Vangelis was good at battles. Not war. His skills lay in assessing a battlefield, directing troops, reacting the movement of an enemy and - when necessary - storming the blood soaked earth by his own steed or boot and taking down the men in his solders' path. He was not the calculating mind behind war strategy. Never had he enjoyed standing around a table and deciding the lives of fathers and sons by the simple shift and pull of wooden totems over a map.
That was how he felt in social situations.
His battle-hardened gaze and sharp attention to detail spotted Prince Stephanos and a beautiful and dignified young woman - whom he could only assume to be his sister Princess Xene - standing and starting to make their way through the crowd. Used to peering through smoke and darkness and occasionally his own blood, it was easy to pick up the movement and colour of the two golden siblings meandering their way between the guests, smiling and nodding to all those that approached them, but expertly managing to continue on their way without offence.
Spotting them and their behaviour was not a trial or difficulty. Liaising with them on a social political front and assessing and speculating why they seemed to be heading in his direction, or what they might want to discuss with him beyond tomorrow's weapons negotiations? That was understanding why the little wooden pieces were moving across the map. And it was not his forte.
Taking a fortifying sip of wine - his first from the cup - he turned to face the approaching prince and princess. No sense in pretending he didn't see them or had not worked out their trajectory across the room. If nothing else, Vangelis was a stout believer in refusing to play at ruses and fake innocence.
"It is a great pleasure to meet you, Prince Vangelis. I do hope that your time, thus far, has been comfortable."
The woman who spoke was of average height for her gender but her mannerisms made her seem taller. With a straight back and incredibly posture - he vaguely recalled something about one of the Mikaelidas daughters being a skilled dancer? - she held herself with an elegance and dignity that belied the look of mischief and arrogance on the face of her brother. She even had the decency to smile a little as she welcomed him to her country.
As was respectful, Vangelis placed a hand loosely over his heart and dipped at the waist, keeping direct eye contact with the young princess. His bow was appropriate for his own rank but also respectful to hers. He gave a small but genuine smile.
"Your words warm me, Princess." He responded in polite kind and upon straightening and lowering his hand, he gestured about the room, clearly indicating his movement to cover the city around them as well as the immediate structure. "Your home and nation is incredibly beautiful." He glanced at Stephanos and remembered their meeting on the docks. "I have always enjoyed attending to our annual discussions just for the opportunity to see..." His gaze slipped back to the woman he was talking to. "The jewel that is Vasiliadon."
"And I implore you to forgive anything my brother may have done to upset you."
The side of Vangelis' mouth quirked up just enough to cause a shadow in the dip of his cheek and he glanced back at Stephanos, as the Princess played - as he understood it - damage control to her brother's lack of inter-kingdom tact.
"I assure you Princess," Vangelis responded, making sure to look back at the beautiful young woman and address her properly. "It takes a great deal for my sensitives to take offence. I simply appreciate efficiency and directness." He made eye contact with the prince. "I think you should be proud of your own talents, that clearly lie elsewhere Prince Stephanos."
Vangelis drank from his cup.
"Was it not sweet of Lady Evelli to host us all?"
As Vangelis rolled his lips to clear them of wine, and set the cup onto the tray of a passing servant, whom clearly needed to purchase more clothing, he nodded with dignity to the young princess.
"Clearly." He stated. "It is rare that a Lady of stature offer celebrations in altruism." He said, absolutely believing the words he spoke but doubting that they had ever applied to Lady Evelli - the woman who seemed to be trying to auction off her daughters to the highest bidder.
Xene's lips curved, as it seemed her words had gone over well with the man. She was aware of the customs of his kingdom; and that they were not as touchy-feely as her own homeland. Though, her smile widened, just slightly, when Vangelis spoke about the beauty of the city they currently stood in. She dipped her head. "Thank you, our family takes great pride in knowing Vasiliadon is a gem." They worked hard, she'd like to think, to keep the city clean and cared for--their people, even more so.
She shifted next to her brother, listening as the man assured her that whatever event had happened between the two princes, was not enough to cause offense. "Ah. Efficiency is a skill I excel at, but... my siblings lack." She pursed her lips, cutting a look towards Stephanos. She'd tried to work with him about getting to the point. It never worked in her favor, though. Her elder brothers were different from one another, but at the same time, so similar that simple negotiations did not seem to be their forte. It irked her; and prompted her to offer more support than a woman probably should.
Who knew how many negotiations would have fallen through without her secretly guiding Stephanos, who in turn, fed that manipulative opinion to her elder brother, who presented it to their father? It was quite the game of chess she was playing.
With a huff, she reached to claim her goblet from Stephanos, sipping deeply, her gaze settling back onto Vangelis as he spoke again. "Mhm... I believe she simply does it to find suitors for her daughters," she waved off all talk of altruism. "but perhaps she'll get lucky, and her wishes will be met."
The man before her was intriguing--and definitely nice to look at--so the next plausible step seemed to be: "Why don't we find a seat, somewhere?" She'd reached to hand her drink back to her brother. "I'd really enjoy learning more about this... event, that occurred, between you and my brother."
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Xene's lips curved, as it seemed her words had gone over well with the man. She was aware of the customs of his kingdom; and that they were not as touchy-feely as her own homeland. Though, her smile widened, just slightly, when Vangelis spoke about the beauty of the city they currently stood in. She dipped her head. "Thank you, our family takes great pride in knowing Vasiliadon is a gem." They worked hard, she'd like to think, to keep the city clean and cared for--their people, even more so.
She shifted next to her brother, listening as the man assured her that whatever event had happened between the two princes, was not enough to cause offense. "Ah. Efficiency is a skill I excel at, but... my siblings lack." She pursed her lips, cutting a look towards Stephanos. She'd tried to work with him about getting to the point. It never worked in her favor, though. Her elder brothers were different from one another, but at the same time, so similar that simple negotiations did not seem to be their forte. It irked her; and prompted her to offer more support than a woman probably should.
Who knew how many negotiations would have fallen through without her secretly guiding Stephanos, who in turn, fed that manipulative opinion to her elder brother, who presented it to their father? It was quite the game of chess she was playing.
With a huff, she reached to claim her goblet from Stephanos, sipping deeply, her gaze settling back onto Vangelis as he spoke again. "Mhm... I believe she simply does it to find suitors for her daughters," she waved off all talk of altruism. "but perhaps she'll get lucky, and her wishes will be met."
The man before her was intriguing--and definitely nice to look at--so the next plausible step seemed to be: "Why don't we find a seat, somewhere?" She'd reached to hand her drink back to her brother. "I'd really enjoy learning more about this... event, that occurred, between you and my brother."
Xene's lips curved, as it seemed her words had gone over well with the man. She was aware of the customs of his kingdom; and that they were not as touchy-feely as her own homeland. Though, her smile widened, just slightly, when Vangelis spoke about the beauty of the city they currently stood in. She dipped her head. "Thank you, our family takes great pride in knowing Vasiliadon is a gem." They worked hard, she'd like to think, to keep the city clean and cared for--their people, even more so.
She shifted next to her brother, listening as the man assured her that whatever event had happened between the two princes, was not enough to cause offense. "Ah. Efficiency is a skill I excel at, but... my siblings lack." She pursed her lips, cutting a look towards Stephanos. She'd tried to work with him about getting to the point. It never worked in her favor, though. Her elder brothers were different from one another, but at the same time, so similar that simple negotiations did not seem to be their forte. It irked her; and prompted her to offer more support than a woman probably should.
Who knew how many negotiations would have fallen through without her secretly guiding Stephanos, who in turn, fed that manipulative opinion to her elder brother, who presented it to their father? It was quite the game of chess she was playing.
With a huff, she reached to claim her goblet from Stephanos, sipping deeply, her gaze settling back onto Vangelis as he spoke again. "Mhm... I believe she simply does it to find suitors for her daughters," she waved off all talk of altruism. "but perhaps she'll get lucky, and her wishes will be met."
The man before her was intriguing--and definitely nice to look at--so the next plausible step seemed to be: "Why don't we find a seat, somewhere?" She'd reached to hand her drink back to her brother. "I'd really enjoy learning more about this... event, that occurred, between you and my brother."
Stephanos' eyebrows raised at the small smile that Vangelis bestowed on Xene, feeling a little offended. He'd worked for the entirety of the afternoon for some small break in the man's icy demeanor; some small bit of proof that he wasn't a statue given life. Now he had it but it wasn't for anything he had done. It was simply that Xene was something he wasn't; a woman.
When Vangelis managed to tear his eyes away from Xene and at last look at him, his words only made Stephanos laugh in feigned offense. "Neither of us are suited to diplomacy then." He raises his wine goblet to toast Vagelis only to have Xene reaxh up and pluck it right out of his hand before his lips even brushed the metal rim.
She spoke in the smooth, easy tone she usually reserved for himself. He stared at her as she half drained his goblet before handing it back to him without even looking his way. Stephanos blinked. Well, well. Xene was on the hunt.
He clutched the goblet's thick stem, looking from Vangelis to Xene, a new idea forming. This would likely be far more fun than his original intent to embarrass the old war horse. "Why don't I give you two some time to talk?" Glancing around the room, he spied the woman from the wine stall earlier in the day, dancing in the far alcove. With a wink at Vangelis and a careless pat on his sister's shoulder, he made his way through the crowd to get his wine refilled.
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May 27, 2019 11:11:06 GMT
Posted In Fine Dining on May 27, 2019 11:11:06 GMT
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Stephanos' eyebrows raised at the small smile that Vangelis bestowed on Xene, feeling a little offended. He'd worked for the entirety of the afternoon for some small break in the man's icy demeanor; some small bit of proof that he wasn't a statue given life. Now he had it but it wasn't for anything he had done. It was simply that Xene was something he wasn't; a woman.
When Vangelis managed to tear his eyes away from Xene and at last look at him, his words only made Stephanos laugh in feigned offense. "Neither of us are suited to diplomacy then." He raises his wine goblet to toast Vagelis only to have Xene reaxh up and pluck it right out of his hand before his lips even brushed the metal rim.
She spoke in the smooth, easy tone she usually reserved for himself. He stared at her as she half drained his goblet before handing it back to him without even looking his way. Stephanos blinked. Well, well. Xene was on the hunt.
He clutched the goblet's thick stem, looking from Vangelis to Xene, a new idea forming. This would likely be far more fun than his original intent to embarrass the old war horse. "Why don't I give you two some time to talk?" Glancing around the room, he spied the woman from the wine stall earlier in the day, dancing in the far alcove. With a wink at Vangelis and a careless pat on his sister's shoulder, he made his way through the crowd to get his wine refilled.
Stephanos' eyebrows raised at the small smile that Vangelis bestowed on Xene, feeling a little offended. He'd worked for the entirety of the afternoon for some small break in the man's icy demeanor; some small bit of proof that he wasn't a statue given life. Now he had it but it wasn't for anything he had done. It was simply that Xene was something he wasn't; a woman.
When Vangelis managed to tear his eyes away from Xene and at last look at him, his words only made Stephanos laugh in feigned offense. "Neither of us are suited to diplomacy then." He raises his wine goblet to toast Vagelis only to have Xene reaxh up and pluck it right out of his hand before his lips even brushed the metal rim.
She spoke in the smooth, easy tone she usually reserved for himself. He stared at her as she half drained his goblet before handing it back to him without even looking his way. Stephanos blinked. Well, well. Xene was on the hunt.
He clutched the goblet's thick stem, looking from Vangelis to Xene, a new idea forming. This would likely be far more fun than his original intent to embarrass the old war horse. "Why don't I give you two some time to talk?" Glancing around the room, he spied the woman from the wine stall earlier in the day, dancing in the far alcove. With a wink at Vangelis and a careless pat on his sister's shoulder, he made his way through the crowd to get his wine refilled.
Achilleas moved up the wide boulevard, his stride purposefully and seemingly unhurried, though he had long legs which allowed him to move fast without the appearance of being in a rush. The morning had been spent working with some of the horses that he was interested in buying from his fiancee’s family, who were renowned for breeding exceptional horses. He’d taken longer than he’d meant to, and consequently had had to rush back to the villa where he was staying to bath and dress for the Leventi’s dinner. His hair was still damp from his bath, showing a hint of curl since he hadn’t cut it in a couple of months.
For a man who’d faced down actual armed men trying to kill him, Achilleas was quite frankly, nervous as he climbed the steps of the Leventi’s lavish home. He was to met the young woman he’d been in love with since they’d been children together. The memory of the way he’d teased her, too young to have known the truth or the depth of the feelings he’d held in his heart for her, caused his lips to quirk upwards, what all too often passed as a smile for him. But it had faded by the time he reached the top of the stairs and was ushered in.
As he was announced by the servant at the door, Achilleas let his gaze drift over the people milling around before him, trying to pick out the woman that he hoped to marry. She’d been beautiful even as a child, so he knew, she’d be captivating now. Her family was renowned throughout the kingdom for their attractiveness and Theo had been exceptional even then. At least he’d always thought so, but then again he’d been a youth of barely fifteen when they’d been together last.
Achilleas jerked his attention from his memories back to the here and now, descending the steps to greet his hostess with a quick smile that actually reached his eyes, as he stopped before Evelli of the House Leventi, taking her small soft hands in his own larger, calloused ones, inclining his head so his lips skimmed over her knuckles. “My lady,” He greeted her, “It has been far too long, though your beauty shines as much now as it did when I was a boy.” Straightening, he released her hands, eyes sweeping over her head at the others in the room. He was very eager to get reacquainted with his fiancee, but not at the cost of snubbing his future mother-in-law.
“You’re too kind.” She said with a smile, hiding her amusement as his attention wandered from her to the crowds behind her before he pulled it back. “Come.” She murmured, moving to tuck her hand in the crook of his arm, “You must be parched. Let’s get you a nice glass of wine.” She guided him through the room, using all her feminine wiles to allow him to think he was the one leading the way. She was quite good at it, having been doing it since before he’d been born.
Pretending to catch sight of her daughter, Evelli lifted her voice slightly, calling Theodora’s name. Easing her hand free from Achilleas’ arm as the young woman approached, “Forgive me. There’s something I must tend to in the kitchen. Theodora, be a dear and keep Achilleas company until I return.” With that, she melted into the crowd, quickly lost from sight, leaving the two young people together. Achilleas smiled warmly down at Theodora, holding out a hand as the musicians continued to play. “You told me once, long ago that you loved music." He wished they might dance together, but this wasn't the time or place so instead he said, "Join me? We can eat and listen to the music." There was an empty couch and he nodded towards it.
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Achilleas moved up the wide boulevard, his stride purposefully and seemingly unhurried, though he had long legs which allowed him to move fast without the appearance of being in a rush. The morning had been spent working with some of the horses that he was interested in buying from his fiancee’s family, who were renowned for breeding exceptional horses. He’d taken longer than he’d meant to, and consequently had had to rush back to the villa where he was staying to bath and dress for the Leventi’s dinner. His hair was still damp from his bath, showing a hint of curl since he hadn’t cut it in a couple of months.
For a man who’d faced down actual armed men trying to kill him, Achilleas was quite frankly, nervous as he climbed the steps of the Leventi’s lavish home. He was to met the young woman he’d been in love with since they’d been children together. The memory of the way he’d teased her, too young to have known the truth or the depth of the feelings he’d held in his heart for her, caused his lips to quirk upwards, what all too often passed as a smile for him. But it had faded by the time he reached the top of the stairs and was ushered in.
As he was announced by the servant at the door, Achilleas let his gaze drift over the people milling around before him, trying to pick out the woman that he hoped to marry. She’d been beautiful even as a child, so he knew, she’d be captivating now. Her family was renowned throughout the kingdom for their attractiveness and Theo had been exceptional even then. At least he’d always thought so, but then again he’d been a youth of barely fifteen when they’d been together last.
Achilleas jerked his attention from his memories back to the here and now, descending the steps to greet his hostess with a quick smile that actually reached his eyes, as he stopped before Evelli of the House Leventi, taking her small soft hands in his own larger, calloused ones, inclining his head so his lips skimmed over her knuckles. “My lady,” He greeted her, “It has been far too long, though your beauty shines as much now as it did when I was a boy.” Straightening, he released her hands, eyes sweeping over her head at the others in the room. He was very eager to get reacquainted with his fiancee, but not at the cost of snubbing his future mother-in-law.
“You’re too kind.” She said with a smile, hiding her amusement as his attention wandered from her to the crowds behind her before he pulled it back. “Come.” She murmured, moving to tuck her hand in the crook of his arm, “You must be parched. Let’s get you a nice glass of wine.” She guided him through the room, using all her feminine wiles to allow him to think he was the one leading the way. She was quite good at it, having been doing it since before he’d been born.
Pretending to catch sight of her daughter, Evelli lifted her voice slightly, calling Theodora’s name. Easing her hand free from Achilleas’ arm as the young woman approached, “Forgive me. There’s something I must tend to in the kitchen. Theodora, be a dear and keep Achilleas company until I return.” With that, she melted into the crowd, quickly lost from sight, leaving the two young people together. Achilleas smiled warmly down at Theodora, holding out a hand as the musicians continued to play. “You told me once, long ago that you loved music." He wished they might dance together, but this wasn't the time or place so instead he said, "Join me? We can eat and listen to the music." There was an empty couch and he nodded towards it.
Achilleas moved up the wide boulevard, his stride purposefully and seemingly unhurried, though he had long legs which allowed him to move fast without the appearance of being in a rush. The morning had been spent working with some of the horses that he was interested in buying from his fiancee’s family, who were renowned for breeding exceptional horses. He’d taken longer than he’d meant to, and consequently had had to rush back to the villa where he was staying to bath and dress for the Leventi’s dinner. His hair was still damp from his bath, showing a hint of curl since he hadn’t cut it in a couple of months.
For a man who’d faced down actual armed men trying to kill him, Achilleas was quite frankly, nervous as he climbed the steps of the Leventi’s lavish home. He was to met the young woman he’d been in love with since they’d been children together. The memory of the way he’d teased her, too young to have known the truth or the depth of the feelings he’d held in his heart for her, caused his lips to quirk upwards, what all too often passed as a smile for him. But it had faded by the time he reached the top of the stairs and was ushered in.
As he was announced by the servant at the door, Achilleas let his gaze drift over the people milling around before him, trying to pick out the woman that he hoped to marry. She’d been beautiful even as a child, so he knew, she’d be captivating now. Her family was renowned throughout the kingdom for their attractiveness and Theo had been exceptional even then. At least he’d always thought so, but then again he’d been a youth of barely fifteen when they’d been together last.
Achilleas jerked his attention from his memories back to the here and now, descending the steps to greet his hostess with a quick smile that actually reached his eyes, as he stopped before Evelli of the House Leventi, taking her small soft hands in his own larger, calloused ones, inclining his head so his lips skimmed over her knuckles. “My lady,” He greeted her, “It has been far too long, though your beauty shines as much now as it did when I was a boy.” Straightening, he released her hands, eyes sweeping over her head at the others in the room. He was very eager to get reacquainted with his fiancee, but not at the cost of snubbing his future mother-in-law.
“You’re too kind.” She said with a smile, hiding her amusement as his attention wandered from her to the crowds behind her before he pulled it back. “Come.” She murmured, moving to tuck her hand in the crook of his arm, “You must be parched. Let’s get you a nice glass of wine.” She guided him through the room, using all her feminine wiles to allow him to think he was the one leading the way. She was quite good at it, having been doing it since before he’d been born.
Pretending to catch sight of her daughter, Evelli lifted her voice slightly, calling Theodora’s name. Easing her hand free from Achilleas’ arm as the young woman approached, “Forgive me. There’s something I must tend to in the kitchen. Theodora, be a dear and keep Achilleas company until I return.” With that, she melted into the crowd, quickly lost from sight, leaving the two young people together. Achilleas smiled warmly down at Theodora, holding out a hand as the musicians continued to play. “You told me once, long ago that you loved music." He wished they might dance together, but this wasn't the time or place so instead he said, "Join me? We can eat and listen to the music." There was an empty couch and he nodded towards it.
Vangelis' smile peaked an appearance again as Stephanos threw back the comment about diplomacy. Whatever he might think of the man and his habits outside of the court and under the bed sheets, he couldn't fault him for being stupid. Unintelligent, Stephanos truly wasn't and it was, after an afternoon of ridiculous and preposterous activities, beginning to puzzle Vangelis why the Taengean prince hid his mind behind jokes and smiles.
Turning to nod at the Princess Xene's suggestion that they sit and talk, Vangelis wondered about the two of Stephanos' siblings and whether they were the cause. While he couldn't empathise himself, Vangelis could surmise the difficulty to might cause, trying to find your place sandwiched between a brother and sister so adept at the seriousness of royal politics. Princess Xene was clearly skilled, confident and - above all - comfortable with handling herself in a room of ranks and titles that both met and, on occasion, outstripped her own. Even when many of those ranks and titles were held by men. And from his past interactions with the crown prince, Zacharias, Vangelis had never felt, for a moment, that the man didn't know exactly what he was doing and saying.
Once again, while he had never had cause to empathise with Stephanos's position - simply because he had been born to a very different one - Vangelis was intelligent enough to find the prince's attitude an interesting reaction to the familial world he'd been born to. And it raised his curiosity...
Though not enough to stop the man when he removed himself from the conversation and, instead, Vangelis followed decorum's sake and turned his attention back to the pretty Taengean princess.
"Of course, princess..." He agreed to her suggestion and, setting aside his wine deliberately, so as not to have more than the one cup, he followed the blonde with the beautiful gait...
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Vangelis' smile peaked an appearance again as Stephanos threw back the comment about diplomacy. Whatever he might think of the man and his habits outside of the court and under the bed sheets, he couldn't fault him for being stupid. Unintelligent, Stephanos truly wasn't and it was, after an afternoon of ridiculous and preposterous activities, beginning to puzzle Vangelis why the Taengean prince hid his mind behind jokes and smiles.
Turning to nod at the Princess Xene's suggestion that they sit and talk, Vangelis wondered about the two of Stephanos' siblings and whether they were the cause. While he couldn't empathise himself, Vangelis could surmise the difficulty to might cause, trying to find your place sandwiched between a brother and sister so adept at the seriousness of royal politics. Princess Xene was clearly skilled, confident and - above all - comfortable with handling herself in a room of ranks and titles that both met and, on occasion, outstripped her own. Even when many of those ranks and titles were held by men. And from his past interactions with the crown prince, Zacharias, Vangelis had never felt, for a moment, that the man didn't know exactly what he was doing and saying.
Once again, while he had never had cause to empathise with Stephanos's position - simply because he had been born to a very different one - Vangelis was intelligent enough to find the prince's attitude an interesting reaction to the familial world he'd been born to. And it raised his curiosity...
Though not enough to stop the man when he removed himself from the conversation and, instead, Vangelis followed decorum's sake and turned his attention back to the pretty Taengean princess.
"Of course, princess..." He agreed to her suggestion and, setting aside his wine deliberately, so as not to have more than the one cup, he followed the blonde with the beautiful gait...
Vangelis' smile peaked an appearance again as Stephanos threw back the comment about diplomacy. Whatever he might think of the man and his habits outside of the court and under the bed sheets, he couldn't fault him for being stupid. Unintelligent, Stephanos truly wasn't and it was, after an afternoon of ridiculous and preposterous activities, beginning to puzzle Vangelis why the Taengean prince hid his mind behind jokes and smiles.
Turning to nod at the Princess Xene's suggestion that they sit and talk, Vangelis wondered about the two of Stephanos' siblings and whether they were the cause. While he couldn't empathise himself, Vangelis could surmise the difficulty to might cause, trying to find your place sandwiched between a brother and sister so adept at the seriousness of royal politics. Princess Xene was clearly skilled, confident and - above all - comfortable with handling herself in a room of ranks and titles that both met and, on occasion, outstripped her own. Even when many of those ranks and titles were held by men. And from his past interactions with the crown prince, Zacharias, Vangelis had never felt, for a moment, that the man didn't know exactly what he was doing and saying.
Once again, while he had never had cause to empathise with Stephanos's position - simply because he had been born to a very different one - Vangelis was intelligent enough to find the prince's attitude an interesting reaction to the familial world he'd been born to. And it raised his curiosity...
Though not enough to stop the man when he removed himself from the conversation and, instead, Vangelis followed decorum's sake and turned his attention back to the pretty Taengean princess.
"Of course, princess..." He agreed to her suggestion and, setting aside his wine deliberately, so as not to have more than the one cup, he followed the blonde with the beautiful gait...
"Stop fidgeting, dear.. it makes you look nervous.."
Theodora stood with her youngest sister Imma as they helped to great new guests to their mother's event. The estate had been decked out most dramatically; showing off the grand manor with decadent luxuries only reserved to those of their high class. The whole affair seemed rather ostentatious, in her opinion, but her mother never did anything half way.. And as an event like this was the perfect place to show off her daughters, (and all a suitable gentlemen could obtain by marrying one) no stone was left unturned.
"I can't help it.. LOOK what they're wearing!" Imma twisted a tassel from her golden belt around her finger as she watched one of the servants dressed only in a loincloth wander by with a tray of drinks. In truth, it was a bit much... she could see why Imma would find it shocking.. she was still rather young, after all, and hadn't had time to adequately adjust to their mothers...eccentricities in the public eye.
The mood had been set to entice; to embolden the attendees, perhaps. Delicious finger foods set for dinner on small pedestals above piles of thick lounging cushions and chaise lounge chairs. There were several people taking up space on them already; flirting and drinking unabashedly. The musicians moved about the room; filling the corridors with sweet music and setting the mood for those in attendance. It really was rather obvious.
But her parents had five daughters to marry off... Five daughters who, until this point, had shown little interest in leaving the nest; Theo included. She'd found who she'd desired. Emilios was everything she could want in a man. He was charming, witty, ....Unbelievably attractive... and the way she felt when he was around was far more risque than anything that could happen here tonight.
She yearned to see Emilios again. It'd been far too long since she'd felt the heat of his breath against her cheek; the brush of his lips.. or heard his voice. She'd hoped soon their parents could work out something advantageous for both families. She couldn't imagine life without him. "Yes...well.. why don't you go find Lady Danae... Mother said she'd been invited. I'm sure the two of you can distract yourselves long enough..." Imma glanced at her older sister and huffed. "He's not coming.. you know that right?" Theo gave a 'hmm?" before looking at Imma. Catching her meaning, she sighed and shook her head. "I'm aware. Thank you for reminding me. Now go before I have mother send you to your room for the night."
"You wouldn't.." Theo gave her youngest sister a stern look. "Are you willing to take that risk?" Imma hesitated a moment before giving her a huff and walking away. Theo turned back to the servants and motioned to one of the staff members; pointing to a tray of food that was almost gone as well as a few others so that they could replace them with fresh delicacies when her mother called for her.
Theo looked up.. and for a brief moment, her breath caught in her throat. The striking resemblance between the brothers was enough to throw anyone off... but she felt rather guilty that she'd fallen for it too. She'd thought for sure upon first glance that Imma was wrong..that Emilios had come to the party. But upon closer study and as she went to join them, she realized that he wasn't really the same at all. Emilios's hair was a few shades lighter; his eyes not quite as blue.. and they were...younger than..."Achilleas.." ...She almost felt guilty for thinking he could be him and her cheeks flushed because of it. "What a pleasant surprise.. how nice of you to attend." Ever the polite hostess, she didn't see her mothers rueful bate and switch until she'd been left alone with Emilios's brother; bidding that she keep him company. As soon as she'd left, Achilleas held out a hand and requested that she sit with him to enjoy the music.
She gave a hesitant smile, before placing her hand in his and allowing him to escort her to the settee. Folding her leg beneath her, she leaned against one hand towards him.. "I've heard of your journies, My Lord. You have become a great leader of men.. It seems as if it's been lifetimes since I've seen you.." ...It wasn't completely the truth.. She saw Emilios in him. It made it difficult to concentrate and to remain neutral. It also made her miss Emilios desperately.
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"Stop fidgeting, dear.. it makes you look nervous.."
Theodora stood with her youngest sister Imma as they helped to great new guests to their mother's event. The estate had been decked out most dramatically; showing off the grand manor with decadent luxuries only reserved to those of their high class. The whole affair seemed rather ostentatious, in her opinion, but her mother never did anything half way.. And as an event like this was the perfect place to show off her daughters, (and all a suitable gentlemen could obtain by marrying one) no stone was left unturned.
"I can't help it.. LOOK what they're wearing!" Imma twisted a tassel from her golden belt around her finger as she watched one of the servants dressed only in a loincloth wander by with a tray of drinks. In truth, it was a bit much... she could see why Imma would find it shocking.. she was still rather young, after all, and hadn't had time to adequately adjust to their mothers...eccentricities in the public eye.
The mood had been set to entice; to embolden the attendees, perhaps. Delicious finger foods set for dinner on small pedestals above piles of thick lounging cushions and chaise lounge chairs. There were several people taking up space on them already; flirting and drinking unabashedly. The musicians moved about the room; filling the corridors with sweet music and setting the mood for those in attendance. It really was rather obvious.
But her parents had five daughters to marry off... Five daughters who, until this point, had shown little interest in leaving the nest; Theo included. She'd found who she'd desired. Emilios was everything she could want in a man. He was charming, witty, ....Unbelievably attractive... and the way she felt when he was around was far more risque than anything that could happen here tonight.
She yearned to see Emilios again. It'd been far too long since she'd felt the heat of his breath against her cheek; the brush of his lips.. or heard his voice. She'd hoped soon their parents could work out something advantageous for both families. She couldn't imagine life without him. "Yes...well.. why don't you go find Lady Danae... Mother said she'd been invited. I'm sure the two of you can distract yourselves long enough..." Imma glanced at her older sister and huffed. "He's not coming.. you know that right?" Theo gave a 'hmm?" before looking at Imma. Catching her meaning, she sighed and shook her head. "I'm aware. Thank you for reminding me. Now go before I have mother send you to your room for the night."
"You wouldn't.." Theo gave her youngest sister a stern look. "Are you willing to take that risk?" Imma hesitated a moment before giving her a huff and walking away. Theo turned back to the servants and motioned to one of the staff members; pointing to a tray of food that was almost gone as well as a few others so that they could replace them with fresh delicacies when her mother called for her.
Theo looked up.. and for a brief moment, her breath caught in her throat. The striking resemblance between the brothers was enough to throw anyone off... but she felt rather guilty that she'd fallen for it too. She'd thought for sure upon first glance that Imma was wrong..that Emilios had come to the party. But upon closer study and as she went to join them, she realized that he wasn't really the same at all. Emilios's hair was a few shades lighter; his eyes not quite as blue.. and they were...younger than..."Achilleas.." ...She almost felt guilty for thinking he could be him and her cheeks flushed because of it. "What a pleasant surprise.. how nice of you to attend." Ever the polite hostess, she didn't see her mothers rueful bate and switch until she'd been left alone with Emilios's brother; bidding that she keep him company. As soon as she'd left, Achilleas held out a hand and requested that she sit with him to enjoy the music.
She gave a hesitant smile, before placing her hand in his and allowing him to escort her to the settee. Folding her leg beneath her, she leaned against one hand towards him.. "I've heard of your journies, My Lord. You have become a great leader of men.. It seems as if it's been lifetimes since I've seen you.." ...It wasn't completely the truth.. She saw Emilios in him. It made it difficult to concentrate and to remain neutral. It also made her miss Emilios desperately.
"Stop fidgeting, dear.. it makes you look nervous.."
Theodora stood with her youngest sister Imma as they helped to great new guests to their mother's event. The estate had been decked out most dramatically; showing off the grand manor with decadent luxuries only reserved to those of their high class. The whole affair seemed rather ostentatious, in her opinion, but her mother never did anything half way.. And as an event like this was the perfect place to show off her daughters, (and all a suitable gentlemen could obtain by marrying one) no stone was left unturned.
"I can't help it.. LOOK what they're wearing!" Imma twisted a tassel from her golden belt around her finger as she watched one of the servants dressed only in a loincloth wander by with a tray of drinks. In truth, it was a bit much... she could see why Imma would find it shocking.. she was still rather young, after all, and hadn't had time to adequately adjust to their mothers...eccentricities in the public eye.
The mood had been set to entice; to embolden the attendees, perhaps. Delicious finger foods set for dinner on small pedestals above piles of thick lounging cushions and chaise lounge chairs. There were several people taking up space on them already; flirting and drinking unabashedly. The musicians moved about the room; filling the corridors with sweet music and setting the mood for those in attendance. It really was rather obvious.
But her parents had five daughters to marry off... Five daughters who, until this point, had shown little interest in leaving the nest; Theo included. She'd found who she'd desired. Emilios was everything she could want in a man. He was charming, witty, ....Unbelievably attractive... and the way she felt when he was around was far more risque than anything that could happen here tonight.
She yearned to see Emilios again. It'd been far too long since she'd felt the heat of his breath against her cheek; the brush of his lips.. or heard his voice. She'd hoped soon their parents could work out something advantageous for both families. She couldn't imagine life without him. "Yes...well.. why don't you go find Lady Danae... Mother said she'd been invited. I'm sure the two of you can distract yourselves long enough..." Imma glanced at her older sister and huffed. "He's not coming.. you know that right?" Theo gave a 'hmm?" before looking at Imma. Catching her meaning, she sighed and shook her head. "I'm aware. Thank you for reminding me. Now go before I have mother send you to your room for the night."
"You wouldn't.." Theo gave her youngest sister a stern look. "Are you willing to take that risk?" Imma hesitated a moment before giving her a huff and walking away. Theo turned back to the servants and motioned to one of the staff members; pointing to a tray of food that was almost gone as well as a few others so that they could replace them with fresh delicacies when her mother called for her.
Theo looked up.. and for a brief moment, her breath caught in her throat. The striking resemblance between the brothers was enough to throw anyone off... but she felt rather guilty that she'd fallen for it too. She'd thought for sure upon first glance that Imma was wrong..that Emilios had come to the party. But upon closer study and as she went to join them, she realized that he wasn't really the same at all. Emilios's hair was a few shades lighter; his eyes not quite as blue.. and they were...younger than..."Achilleas.." ...She almost felt guilty for thinking he could be him and her cheeks flushed because of it. "What a pleasant surprise.. how nice of you to attend." Ever the polite hostess, she didn't see her mothers rueful bate and switch until she'd been left alone with Emilios's brother; bidding that she keep him company. As soon as she'd left, Achilleas held out a hand and requested that she sit with him to enjoy the music.
She gave a hesitant smile, before placing her hand in his and allowing him to escort her to the settee. Folding her leg beneath her, she leaned against one hand towards him.. "I've heard of your journies, My Lord. You have become a great leader of men.. It seems as if it's been lifetimes since I've seen you.." ...It wasn't completely the truth.. She saw Emilios in him. It made it difficult to concentrate and to remain neutral. It also made her miss Emilios desperately.
Xene settled onto the couch in question, angling her head to study Vangelis, a sly little smile gracing her lips. “So, tell me, what exactly did Stephanos do to upset you?” She knew the man typically dealt with her eldest brother, Zacharias. But… well, she did not know the exact reason Zacharias had not attended this meeting, but she knew it would be a learning experience for Stephanos… “He said you had to restrain yourself, from pulling his feet from underneath him. But was that all?”
She just did not expect to do damage control. Once Vangelis had seated himself, she shifted closer to study him, and absently waved a servant over with a goblet of wine for herself. She sipped deeply, eyeing the prince. Anyone who truly knew her was aware that she was sizing him up—calculating thoughts in her head, deciding if he was worth her time… He was a challenge if the rumors proved true.
There was nothing more that Xene enjoyed more than a good challenge. She would listen actively if he recounted the event she had asked about, before she spoke up again: “So tell me the details of this weapons trade.” She had straightened, and was no longer studying him with such intensity, but rather waiting to be told what she wished to know. “I’ve heard a bit, from my brother, but I do believe that I would prefer to hear it from you. What exactly are you planning to trade with our kingdom—and what are we trading in return?” She was blunt, simply because she thought he would appreciate bluntness over her usual sly mannerisms.
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Xene settled onto the couch in question, angling her head to study Vangelis, a sly little smile gracing her lips. “So, tell me, what exactly did Stephanos do to upset you?” She knew the man typically dealt with her eldest brother, Zacharias. But… well, she did not know the exact reason Zacharias had not attended this meeting, but she knew it would be a learning experience for Stephanos… “He said you had to restrain yourself, from pulling his feet from underneath him. But was that all?”
She just did not expect to do damage control. Once Vangelis had seated himself, she shifted closer to study him, and absently waved a servant over with a goblet of wine for herself. She sipped deeply, eyeing the prince. Anyone who truly knew her was aware that she was sizing him up—calculating thoughts in her head, deciding if he was worth her time… He was a challenge if the rumors proved true.
There was nothing more that Xene enjoyed more than a good challenge. She would listen actively if he recounted the event she had asked about, before she spoke up again: “So tell me the details of this weapons trade.” She had straightened, and was no longer studying him with such intensity, but rather waiting to be told what she wished to know. “I’ve heard a bit, from my brother, but I do believe that I would prefer to hear it from you. What exactly are you planning to trade with our kingdom—and what are we trading in return?” She was blunt, simply because she thought he would appreciate bluntness over her usual sly mannerisms.
Xene settled onto the couch in question, angling her head to study Vangelis, a sly little smile gracing her lips. “So, tell me, what exactly did Stephanos do to upset you?” She knew the man typically dealt with her eldest brother, Zacharias. But… well, she did not know the exact reason Zacharias had not attended this meeting, but she knew it would be a learning experience for Stephanos… “He said you had to restrain yourself, from pulling his feet from underneath him. But was that all?”
She just did not expect to do damage control. Once Vangelis had seated himself, she shifted closer to study him, and absently waved a servant over with a goblet of wine for herself. She sipped deeply, eyeing the prince. Anyone who truly knew her was aware that she was sizing him up—calculating thoughts in her head, deciding if he was worth her time… He was a challenge if the rumors proved true.
There was nothing more that Xene enjoyed more than a good challenge. She would listen actively if he recounted the event she had asked about, before she spoke up again: “So tell me the details of this weapons trade.” She had straightened, and was no longer studying him with such intensity, but rather waiting to be told what she wished to know. “I’ve heard a bit, from my brother, but I do believe that I would prefer to hear it from you. What exactly are you planning to trade with our kingdom—and what are we trading in return?” She was blunt, simply because she thought he would appreciate bluntness over her usual sly mannerisms.
Vangelis followed his lovely hostess to the settee of her choice and was ceremoniously seated next to her. Deciding to get comfy, as it looked like the woman was going to be keeping him for a little while, Vangelis moved to place a foot up on the low table in front of them, only to realise he was wearing his toga over his trousers and then thought better of it. Instead, he sat back comfortable and put one arm over the back of the chair so that he could more easily look at, and speak with, the princess.
Vangelis cracked a small smile at Stephanos' summation of their encounter earlier that day. There had definitely been times Vangelis would have liked to have seen that smarmy grin be wiped from his face - if only by shock - just for a moment or two. There seemed to be no denting the infalliable confidence of that prince...
"Suffice it to say, my Lady, that if I had chosen to pull his feet out from under him, the man would have drowned... Given his choice of our venue." And with that shadow of a smile flickering across his face again, that was all Vangelis was going to say on the matter.
When the princess turned to discussing matters of state and trade, Vangelis started to feel more comfortable. He was a man of action, of decision and of efficiency and he admired anyone - of either gender - who wanted to get to the heart of the important matters, not dither and dance around the issues.
"It's a standard annual renegotiation, princess." He told her, not at all dressing down the situation - she seemed like the kind of woman who was aware of what was happening around her, and not at all naive to the politics of her nation. "I discuss adjustments to our trade agreements every year with Prince Zacharias. Our weapons - your horses." He watched as the lady drank from her wine cup and suddenly wondered how many of those she had had... "Only this year we have no need of horses." He confirmed. "So, I'm here to negotiated a financial arrangement instead."
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May 27, 2019 11:22:51 GMT
Posted In Fine Dining on May 27, 2019 11:22:51 GMT
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Vangelis followed his lovely hostess to the settee of her choice and was ceremoniously seated next to her. Deciding to get comfy, as it looked like the woman was going to be keeping him for a little while, Vangelis moved to place a foot up on the low table in front of them, only to realise he was wearing his toga over his trousers and then thought better of it. Instead, he sat back comfortable and put one arm over the back of the chair so that he could more easily look at, and speak with, the princess.
Vangelis cracked a small smile at Stephanos' summation of their encounter earlier that day. There had definitely been times Vangelis would have liked to have seen that smarmy grin be wiped from his face - if only by shock - just for a moment or two. There seemed to be no denting the infalliable confidence of that prince...
"Suffice it to say, my Lady, that if I had chosen to pull his feet out from under him, the man would have drowned... Given his choice of our venue." And with that shadow of a smile flickering across his face again, that was all Vangelis was going to say on the matter.
When the princess turned to discussing matters of state and trade, Vangelis started to feel more comfortable. He was a man of action, of decision and of efficiency and he admired anyone - of either gender - who wanted to get to the heart of the important matters, not dither and dance around the issues.
"It's a standard annual renegotiation, princess." He told her, not at all dressing down the situation - she seemed like the kind of woman who was aware of what was happening around her, and not at all naive to the politics of her nation. "I discuss adjustments to our trade agreements every year with Prince Zacharias. Our weapons - your horses." He watched as the lady drank from her wine cup and suddenly wondered how many of those she had had... "Only this year we have no need of horses." He confirmed. "So, I'm here to negotiated a financial arrangement instead."
Vangelis followed his lovely hostess to the settee of her choice and was ceremoniously seated next to her. Deciding to get comfy, as it looked like the woman was going to be keeping him for a little while, Vangelis moved to place a foot up on the low table in front of them, only to realise he was wearing his toga over his trousers and then thought better of it. Instead, he sat back comfortable and put one arm over the back of the chair so that he could more easily look at, and speak with, the princess.
Vangelis cracked a small smile at Stephanos' summation of their encounter earlier that day. There had definitely been times Vangelis would have liked to have seen that smarmy grin be wiped from his face - if only by shock - just for a moment or two. There seemed to be no denting the infalliable confidence of that prince...
"Suffice it to say, my Lady, that if I had chosen to pull his feet out from under him, the man would have drowned... Given his choice of our venue." And with that shadow of a smile flickering across his face again, that was all Vangelis was going to say on the matter.
When the princess turned to discussing matters of state and trade, Vangelis started to feel more comfortable. He was a man of action, of decision and of efficiency and he admired anyone - of either gender - who wanted to get to the heart of the important matters, not dither and dance around the issues.
"It's a standard annual renegotiation, princess." He told her, not at all dressing down the situation - she seemed like the kind of woman who was aware of what was happening around her, and not at all naive to the politics of her nation. "I discuss adjustments to our trade agreements every year with Prince Zacharias. Our weapons - your horses." He watched as the lady drank from her wine cup and suddenly wondered how many of those she had had... "Only this year we have no need of horses." He confirmed. "So, I'm here to negotiated a financial arrangement instead."
As the sheltered younger princess of House Xanthos, this can be considered one of the first times Emilia has been allowed out of the boundaries of her home and lands all alone. Had her father not been sick abed, it is likely that Emilia probably wouldn't be let out anyway. But as luck would have it (good or bad, depends on how you look at it), Persephone had sent Emilia as representative of House Xanthos.
And so with a long lecture from her sister on decorum and poise, and multiple warnings to her retainers and guards to watch her every move, Emilia arrived in Taengea, wide-eyed wonderment in her brown irises as the carriage rolled to a stop outside of the Leventi manor.
Waiting until the steps were rolled down, the three ladies-in-waiting coming with her fussed over the simple emerald-studded gold circlet she had around her head, making sure every curl was in place and arranging the folds of her black gown. The trimmed gold edges added the life to the silken gown, and just enough to skim her golden sandals with its leather laces tied up around her ankles.
"Simple festivity, Emmy. C'mon. Sissy's counting on you." she mentally steeled herself, picking up the hem of her dress before making her way up the steps, and into the Leventi manor.
There, Emilia had to take yet another pause to collect herself. After all, it was rare for a young sixteen-year-old female to be carrying the prestige of her house on her lone shoulders. And the sheer amount of people is mildly suffocating to Emilia as of now. Her eyes roamed from decoration to the crowd, her steps slow until she reached the top of the steps, where the announcer quickly recognized her.
"Presenting Princess Emilia of Athenia, House Xanthos!"
Emilia froze when eyes turned to her, never one for the center of attraction. Quickly, she made her way down the marble steps, eager to avoid the sympathetic glances. She still hated them. Emilia wanted her father to get better, so Persephone can avoid all of the trials and tribulations of the Senate and court, and life could return to normal. She simply did not want to speak of the dire situation at hand.
Instead, she sought to avoid those gazes by blending in with the crowd mingling in the middle of the Leventi ballroom, the festivities in full swing. Taking advantage of the fact that Persephone wasn't around, Emilia grinned her trademark cheeky grin as she grabbed a glass of wine from a passing platter, offering a small 'thanks', as she brought the red liquid to her lips, relishing the whole-bodied flavor of it as it rushed down her throat.
Closing her eyes, for the briefest of moments, Emilia forgot that she was right in the middle of a ballroom.
Too much, obviously. With her lack of attention, she gave a loud "Oh!" when an unknown individual knocked into her. The sudden surprise of it made her off-balance, and Emilia staggered backward. The next thing she knew, the stem of the goblet she held flew out of her hands, and a loud clatter drowned only by the louder chatter of people around her, as the goblet fell to the ground, spilling wine all over sandaled feet.
Shocked by the turn of events, Emilia froze for a few seconds, her mouth agape by the situation, before decorum kicked her back into action, and she gasped. "I'm so sorry! I-" When her wide brown doe eyes glanced up at her inadvertent victim, the words died in her throat when the striking blue eyes met hers, and she gulped. Blue eyes be damned, was Aphrodite playing tricks on her again? Oh Hades, what was it that Persephone had told her about greeting people again? Biting her lip, Emilia bowed her head again, firmly apologetic, as she wrung her fingers behind her. "I'm sorry, I wasn't paying attention to my surroundings, tis all on me."
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May 27, 2019 11:23:43 GMT
Posted In Fine Dining on May 27, 2019 11:23:43 GMT
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As the sheltered younger princess of House Xanthos, this can be considered one of the first times Emilia has been allowed out of the boundaries of her home and lands all alone. Had her father not been sick abed, it is likely that Emilia probably wouldn't be let out anyway. But as luck would have it (good or bad, depends on how you look at it), Persephone had sent Emilia as representative of House Xanthos.
And so with a long lecture from her sister on decorum and poise, and multiple warnings to her retainers and guards to watch her every move, Emilia arrived in Taengea, wide-eyed wonderment in her brown irises as the carriage rolled to a stop outside of the Leventi manor.
Waiting until the steps were rolled down, the three ladies-in-waiting coming with her fussed over the simple emerald-studded gold circlet she had around her head, making sure every curl was in place and arranging the folds of her black gown. The trimmed gold edges added the life to the silken gown, and just enough to skim her golden sandals with its leather laces tied up around her ankles.
"Simple festivity, Emmy. C'mon. Sissy's counting on you." she mentally steeled herself, picking up the hem of her dress before making her way up the steps, and into the Leventi manor.
There, Emilia had to take yet another pause to collect herself. After all, it was rare for a young sixteen-year-old female to be carrying the prestige of her house on her lone shoulders. And the sheer amount of people is mildly suffocating to Emilia as of now. Her eyes roamed from decoration to the crowd, her steps slow until she reached the top of the steps, where the announcer quickly recognized her.
"Presenting Princess Emilia of Athenia, House Xanthos!"
Emilia froze when eyes turned to her, never one for the center of attraction. Quickly, she made her way down the marble steps, eager to avoid the sympathetic glances. She still hated them. Emilia wanted her father to get better, so Persephone can avoid all of the trials and tribulations of the Senate and court, and life could return to normal. She simply did not want to speak of the dire situation at hand.
Instead, she sought to avoid those gazes by blending in with the crowd mingling in the middle of the Leventi ballroom, the festivities in full swing. Taking advantage of the fact that Persephone wasn't around, Emilia grinned her trademark cheeky grin as she grabbed a glass of wine from a passing platter, offering a small 'thanks', as she brought the red liquid to her lips, relishing the whole-bodied flavor of it as it rushed down her throat.
Closing her eyes, for the briefest of moments, Emilia forgot that she was right in the middle of a ballroom.
Too much, obviously. With her lack of attention, she gave a loud "Oh!" when an unknown individual knocked into her. The sudden surprise of it made her off-balance, and Emilia staggered backward. The next thing she knew, the stem of the goblet she held flew out of her hands, and a loud clatter drowned only by the louder chatter of people around her, as the goblet fell to the ground, spilling wine all over sandaled feet.
Shocked by the turn of events, Emilia froze for a few seconds, her mouth agape by the situation, before decorum kicked her back into action, and she gasped. "I'm so sorry! I-" When her wide brown doe eyes glanced up at her inadvertent victim, the words died in her throat when the striking blue eyes met hers, and she gulped. Blue eyes be damned, was Aphrodite playing tricks on her again? Oh Hades, what was it that Persephone had told her about greeting people again? Biting her lip, Emilia bowed her head again, firmly apologetic, as she wrung her fingers behind her. "I'm sorry, I wasn't paying attention to my surroundings, tis all on me."
As the sheltered younger princess of House Xanthos, this can be considered one of the first times Emilia has been allowed out of the boundaries of her home and lands all alone. Had her father not been sick abed, it is likely that Emilia probably wouldn't be let out anyway. But as luck would have it (good or bad, depends on how you look at it), Persephone had sent Emilia as representative of House Xanthos.
And so with a long lecture from her sister on decorum and poise, and multiple warnings to her retainers and guards to watch her every move, Emilia arrived in Taengea, wide-eyed wonderment in her brown irises as the carriage rolled to a stop outside of the Leventi manor.
Waiting until the steps were rolled down, the three ladies-in-waiting coming with her fussed over the simple emerald-studded gold circlet she had around her head, making sure every curl was in place and arranging the folds of her black gown. The trimmed gold edges added the life to the silken gown, and just enough to skim her golden sandals with its leather laces tied up around her ankles.
"Simple festivity, Emmy. C'mon. Sissy's counting on you." she mentally steeled herself, picking up the hem of her dress before making her way up the steps, and into the Leventi manor.
There, Emilia had to take yet another pause to collect herself. After all, it was rare for a young sixteen-year-old female to be carrying the prestige of her house on her lone shoulders. And the sheer amount of people is mildly suffocating to Emilia as of now. Her eyes roamed from decoration to the crowd, her steps slow until she reached the top of the steps, where the announcer quickly recognized her.
"Presenting Princess Emilia of Athenia, House Xanthos!"
Emilia froze when eyes turned to her, never one for the center of attraction. Quickly, she made her way down the marble steps, eager to avoid the sympathetic glances. She still hated them. Emilia wanted her father to get better, so Persephone can avoid all of the trials and tribulations of the Senate and court, and life could return to normal. She simply did not want to speak of the dire situation at hand.
Instead, she sought to avoid those gazes by blending in with the crowd mingling in the middle of the Leventi ballroom, the festivities in full swing. Taking advantage of the fact that Persephone wasn't around, Emilia grinned her trademark cheeky grin as she grabbed a glass of wine from a passing platter, offering a small 'thanks', as she brought the red liquid to her lips, relishing the whole-bodied flavor of it as it rushed down her throat.
Closing her eyes, for the briefest of moments, Emilia forgot that she was right in the middle of a ballroom.
Too much, obviously. With her lack of attention, she gave a loud "Oh!" when an unknown individual knocked into her. The sudden surprise of it made her off-balance, and Emilia staggered backward. The next thing she knew, the stem of the goblet she held flew out of her hands, and a loud clatter drowned only by the louder chatter of people around her, as the goblet fell to the ground, spilling wine all over sandaled feet.
Shocked by the turn of events, Emilia froze for a few seconds, her mouth agape by the situation, before decorum kicked her back into action, and she gasped. "I'm so sorry! I-" When her wide brown doe eyes glanced up at her inadvertent victim, the words died in her throat when the striking blue eyes met hers, and she gulped. Blue eyes be damned, was Aphrodite playing tricks on her again? Oh Hades, what was it that Persephone had told her about greeting people again? Biting her lip, Emilia bowed her head again, firmly apologetic, as she wrung her fingers behind her. "I'm sorry, I wasn't paying attention to my surroundings, tis all on me."
Xene had seated herself with one leg underneath her, leaning into the back of the chair, and her gaze roamed his arm as he adjusted the manner in which he sat. Her lips parted gently, and she breathed, “Then I suppose it was in my family’s best interest that you did not attempt to deflate Stephanos’ famous ego.” Her voice was smooth, and she was quick to finish her goblet, handing it off to a passing servant without so much as a glance.
“Oh? Tell me… what kind of weapons are you offering in exchange for financial gain? And how much do you hope to gain?” Her head tilted slightly, brown eyes focused firmly on his face. “I would surely think an alliance through marriage would be more profitable for both kingdoms—and you know, we’ve got a younger sister, Gianna… Gentle little creature.” Her lips curved, “But then… if all of those rumors that I have heard about you are true…” She shifted so that she was closer to the man, “…Gianna would certainly be unhappy.”
Her lips pursed, in thought, “But then, rumors can never be too true, can they?” Her sister was such a kind girl, definitely not as politically inclined as her elder sister. Xene thought she was daft—but still… at least if she were married off, she would bring something good of her existence. Not change, by any means, that was Xene’s forte, her quest. “A man always has to sleep… the real question, though, would have to be… do you sleep alone, my Lord?”
Her smile was there, slight but still existent, as she asked the question. After all, if Stephanos was going to wander off and find himself a woman, Xene might as well enjoy herself as well. “Or are you made of stone, like they say?” She reached out to trail a petite hand against his leg, her touch light, like a feather. “Hm… no stone there.” She commented, wryly. She sounded a bit disappointed, though she had not withdrawn her hand; rather her touch had solidified against his knee.
Stephanos had been correct to assume his sister was hunting. But just what was she after? That was the question to beat out all others. And would she get it? She was known to be stubborn, persistent...
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Xene had seated herself with one leg underneath her, leaning into the back of the chair, and her gaze roamed his arm as he adjusted the manner in which he sat. Her lips parted gently, and she breathed, “Then I suppose it was in my family’s best interest that you did not attempt to deflate Stephanos’ famous ego.” Her voice was smooth, and she was quick to finish her goblet, handing it off to a passing servant without so much as a glance.
“Oh? Tell me… what kind of weapons are you offering in exchange for financial gain? And how much do you hope to gain?” Her head tilted slightly, brown eyes focused firmly on his face. “I would surely think an alliance through marriage would be more profitable for both kingdoms—and you know, we’ve got a younger sister, Gianna… Gentle little creature.” Her lips curved, “But then… if all of those rumors that I have heard about you are true…” She shifted so that she was closer to the man, “…Gianna would certainly be unhappy.”
Her lips pursed, in thought, “But then, rumors can never be too true, can they?” Her sister was such a kind girl, definitely not as politically inclined as her elder sister. Xene thought she was daft—but still… at least if she were married off, she would bring something good of her existence. Not change, by any means, that was Xene’s forte, her quest. “A man always has to sleep… the real question, though, would have to be… do you sleep alone, my Lord?”
Her smile was there, slight but still existent, as she asked the question. After all, if Stephanos was going to wander off and find himself a woman, Xene might as well enjoy herself as well. “Or are you made of stone, like they say?” She reached out to trail a petite hand against his leg, her touch light, like a feather. “Hm… no stone there.” She commented, wryly. She sounded a bit disappointed, though she had not withdrawn her hand; rather her touch had solidified against his knee.
Stephanos had been correct to assume his sister was hunting. But just what was she after? That was the question to beat out all others. And would she get it? She was known to be stubborn, persistent...
Xene had seated herself with one leg underneath her, leaning into the back of the chair, and her gaze roamed his arm as he adjusted the manner in which he sat. Her lips parted gently, and she breathed, “Then I suppose it was in my family’s best interest that you did not attempt to deflate Stephanos’ famous ego.” Her voice was smooth, and she was quick to finish her goblet, handing it off to a passing servant without so much as a glance.
“Oh? Tell me… what kind of weapons are you offering in exchange for financial gain? And how much do you hope to gain?” Her head tilted slightly, brown eyes focused firmly on his face. “I would surely think an alliance through marriage would be more profitable for both kingdoms—and you know, we’ve got a younger sister, Gianna… Gentle little creature.” Her lips curved, “But then… if all of those rumors that I have heard about you are true…” She shifted so that she was closer to the man, “…Gianna would certainly be unhappy.”
Her lips pursed, in thought, “But then, rumors can never be too true, can they?” Her sister was such a kind girl, definitely not as politically inclined as her elder sister. Xene thought she was daft—but still… at least if she were married off, she would bring something good of her existence. Not change, by any means, that was Xene’s forte, her quest. “A man always has to sleep… the real question, though, would have to be… do you sleep alone, my Lord?”
Her smile was there, slight but still existent, as she asked the question. After all, if Stephanos was going to wander off and find himself a woman, Xene might as well enjoy herself as well. “Or are you made of stone, like they say?” She reached out to trail a petite hand against his leg, her touch light, like a feather. “Hm… no stone there.” She commented, wryly. She sounded a bit disappointed, though she had not withdrawn her hand; rather her touch had solidified against his knee.
Stephanos had been correct to assume his sister was hunting. But just what was she after? That was the question to beat out all others. And would she get it? She was known to be stubborn, persistent...
Vangelis might not be the most subtle or nuanced of gentlemen - especially when it came to political and high society social matters - but he also wasn't a dunce. And neither was he blind.
As the Princess Xene positioned herself closer to him on the couch, her words moving as rapidly as her hand on his leg, he tried to focus on her rapidly changing topics of conversation. She had clearly been drinking a fair amount and her attention turned from political and commercial arrangements, to marriage proposals, to straight up offers of seduction and satisfaction.
"I'm sure marriage arrangements are a fine means of securing alliances..." He answered, as she mentioned that one - leaving the finer details of a private weapons trade for when he and the princes were in the frame of mind to negotiate and were behind closed doors. "But it's a little awkward to try and renegotiate marriage terms each year in the same manner." He joked a little, relinquishing that topic of conversation from over his head and now focusing on the hand the young princess had placed on his leg.
As she mentioned sleep, he knew the rumour to which he was referring as there was a lot of gossip among his men that Vangelis never slept - or, at least, slept with his eyes open and his mind alert. This was possibly the silliest rumour he'd heard about his nocturnal habits considering - as the princess said - that all men needed to sleep.
When she asked whether or not he completely the act alone or not, however, he licked his lips and turned his gaze considering. The woman was beautiful, she was clearly offering and he had nowhere to be for the rest of his night. Finding a willing bed partner might be a good idea for wiling away the wee hours and warming his bed.
His body seemed to become over sensitive, as if informing him just exactly how long it had been since he'd had a woman beneath him, her legs wrapped tight around his waist and his face buried in her neck. The last had been a young maid in Colchis, and that had been over a month ago...
And then... his common sense clicked back into place. Had she been the daughter of a simple noble, or even a servant or slave, he would have taken the beautiful Xene up on her offer. Of that, he was perfectly certain. But she was none of those things. She was the daughter of the Taengean king - a man he would be doing business with in the morning. A man he needed to maintain strong ties of friendship with for the sake of his father and kingdom.
And as he had no idea of Xene's plans or temperament... he couldn't risk her turning hostile after any shared intimacy.
Therefore, Vangelis picked up the woman's hand from where it was rested on his knee, rubbed the pad of his thumb over her knuckles in a gesture of affection.
"I do sleep alone most of the time, Princess Xene..." He murmured in his rough gravel-like tone... And then placed her hand back down onto her own lap. "But I fear that isn't something you can help me to correct." He finished with a polite smile and nod of his head.
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May 27, 2019 11:24:44 GMT
Posted In Fine Dining on May 27, 2019 11:24:44 GMT
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Vangelis might not be the most subtle or nuanced of gentlemen - especially when it came to political and high society social matters - but he also wasn't a dunce. And neither was he blind.
As the Princess Xene positioned herself closer to him on the couch, her words moving as rapidly as her hand on his leg, he tried to focus on her rapidly changing topics of conversation. She had clearly been drinking a fair amount and her attention turned from political and commercial arrangements, to marriage proposals, to straight up offers of seduction and satisfaction.
"I'm sure marriage arrangements are a fine means of securing alliances..." He answered, as she mentioned that one - leaving the finer details of a private weapons trade for when he and the princes were in the frame of mind to negotiate and were behind closed doors. "But it's a little awkward to try and renegotiate marriage terms each year in the same manner." He joked a little, relinquishing that topic of conversation from over his head and now focusing on the hand the young princess had placed on his leg.
As she mentioned sleep, he knew the rumour to which he was referring as there was a lot of gossip among his men that Vangelis never slept - or, at least, slept with his eyes open and his mind alert. This was possibly the silliest rumour he'd heard about his nocturnal habits considering - as the princess said - that all men needed to sleep.
When she asked whether or not he completely the act alone or not, however, he licked his lips and turned his gaze considering. The woman was beautiful, she was clearly offering and he had nowhere to be for the rest of his night. Finding a willing bed partner might be a good idea for wiling away the wee hours and warming his bed.
His body seemed to become over sensitive, as if informing him just exactly how long it had been since he'd had a woman beneath him, her legs wrapped tight around his waist and his face buried in her neck. The last had been a young maid in Colchis, and that had been over a month ago...
And then... his common sense clicked back into place. Had she been the daughter of a simple noble, or even a servant or slave, he would have taken the beautiful Xene up on her offer. Of that, he was perfectly certain. But she was none of those things. She was the daughter of the Taengean king - a man he would be doing business with in the morning. A man he needed to maintain strong ties of friendship with for the sake of his father and kingdom.
And as he had no idea of Xene's plans or temperament... he couldn't risk her turning hostile after any shared intimacy.
Therefore, Vangelis picked up the woman's hand from where it was rested on his knee, rubbed the pad of his thumb over her knuckles in a gesture of affection.
"I do sleep alone most of the time, Princess Xene..." He murmured in his rough gravel-like tone... And then placed her hand back down onto her own lap. "But I fear that isn't something you can help me to correct." He finished with a polite smile and nod of his head.
Vangelis might not be the most subtle or nuanced of gentlemen - especially when it came to political and high society social matters - but he also wasn't a dunce. And neither was he blind.
As the Princess Xene positioned herself closer to him on the couch, her words moving as rapidly as her hand on his leg, he tried to focus on her rapidly changing topics of conversation. She had clearly been drinking a fair amount and her attention turned from political and commercial arrangements, to marriage proposals, to straight up offers of seduction and satisfaction.
"I'm sure marriage arrangements are a fine means of securing alliances..." He answered, as she mentioned that one - leaving the finer details of a private weapons trade for when he and the princes were in the frame of mind to negotiate and were behind closed doors. "But it's a little awkward to try and renegotiate marriage terms each year in the same manner." He joked a little, relinquishing that topic of conversation from over his head and now focusing on the hand the young princess had placed on his leg.
As she mentioned sleep, he knew the rumour to which he was referring as there was a lot of gossip among his men that Vangelis never slept - or, at least, slept with his eyes open and his mind alert. This was possibly the silliest rumour he'd heard about his nocturnal habits considering - as the princess said - that all men needed to sleep.
When she asked whether or not he completely the act alone or not, however, he licked his lips and turned his gaze considering. The woman was beautiful, she was clearly offering and he had nowhere to be for the rest of his night. Finding a willing bed partner might be a good idea for wiling away the wee hours and warming his bed.
His body seemed to become over sensitive, as if informing him just exactly how long it had been since he'd had a woman beneath him, her legs wrapped tight around his waist and his face buried in her neck. The last had been a young maid in Colchis, and that had been over a month ago...
And then... his common sense clicked back into place. Had she been the daughter of a simple noble, or even a servant or slave, he would have taken the beautiful Xene up on her offer. Of that, he was perfectly certain. But she was none of those things. She was the daughter of the Taengean king - a man he would be doing business with in the morning. A man he needed to maintain strong ties of friendship with for the sake of his father and kingdom.
And as he had no idea of Xene's plans or temperament... he couldn't risk her turning hostile after any shared intimacy.
Therefore, Vangelis picked up the woman's hand from where it was rested on his knee, rubbed the pad of his thumb over her knuckles in a gesture of affection.
"I do sleep alone most of the time, Princess Xene..." He murmured in his rough gravel-like tone... And then placed her hand back down onto her own lap. "But I fear that isn't something you can help me to correct." He finished with a polite smile and nod of his head.
