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Vangelis offered limited reaction to Selene's words but the sidelong glances he gave to her as she spoken clearly showed him to be listening. Or at least, it was clear in his book and apparently in hers too as she never seemed to get annoyed that he wasn't offering his full attention as some people did (not that they ever voiced it aloud to a prince of the realm). His lips quirked down at the corners, his lower lip coming out a little and his brows rising in an expression of consideration when she mentioned it being the role of the eldest to ensure the happiness of younger siblings.
It was interesting to look at it that way, as Vangelis had never seen it so. He saw himself more as a protector and role model to his siblings. Not someone who was to make them happy or protect that happiness... But had did always hope that by performing his role as prince, general and future king to his best abilities; in being that role model and protector - it would somehow result in them each being happy. It was more that he wanted his siblings to live good lives... rather than happy ones... If there was such a difference.
When Selene commented on the energetic spirit of her horse and of her inability to contain its excitement, Vangelis' lips curled in the other direction, upwards into a knowing half smile. Selene and, by extension, the Leventi family were well known for their handling of equine livestock. She had no difficulty controlling the animal and was offering him the opportunity to let loose a little steam...
Pursing his lips a little, a flicker of movement tightening in the corner of his jaw, Vangelis glanced towards Asia and Imeeya and then to the tree line, measuring the distance by sight alone and coming to an acceptable conclusion. There were no trees around the group anymore, nowhere for an attack to come from or an ambush to be staged. No-one would be able to approach the two young girls without both they and himself witnessing them from far off. Which meant he had time to ride back the distance of the meadow should he need to.
With a call to Asia that the girls not wander too far and stay within eyesight, Vangelis turned his steed to move it around Selene's obtrusive mare. Moving the horse further away from the thickets behind them and fully into the meadow’s grasslands, he turned to check that Selene was joining him readily, the animal beneath him starting to notice the spirit of his competitor and that of their riders, bouncing his front hooves in small rears of excitement.
When Selene offered a comment on whether he was fully healed enough for such a challenge, one of Vangelis' brows rose at such a tempting comment and with a quick shift of his hands and a kick of his heels. Vangelis had his animal launching forwards into a heavy run almost instantly, unwilling, after her taunt to play the gentleman and give her a head start, as he turned to glance over his shoulder at her approach.
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May 27, 2019 17:24:28 GMT
Posted In Ride With Me on May 27, 2019 17:24:28 GMT
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Vangelis offered limited reaction to Selene's words but the sidelong glances he gave to her as she spoken clearly showed him to be listening. Or at least, it was clear in his book and apparently in hers too as she never seemed to get annoyed that he wasn't offering his full attention as some people did (not that they ever voiced it aloud to a prince of the realm). His lips quirked down at the corners, his lower lip coming out a little and his brows rising in an expression of consideration when she mentioned it being the role of the eldest to ensure the happiness of younger siblings.
It was interesting to look at it that way, as Vangelis had never seen it so. He saw himself more as a protector and role model to his siblings. Not someone who was to make them happy or protect that happiness... But had did always hope that by performing his role as prince, general and future king to his best abilities; in being that role model and protector - it would somehow result in them each being happy. It was more that he wanted his siblings to live good lives... rather than happy ones... If there was such a difference.
When Selene commented on the energetic spirit of her horse and of her inability to contain its excitement, Vangelis' lips curled in the other direction, upwards into a knowing half smile. Selene and, by extension, the Leventi family were well known for their handling of equine livestock. She had no difficulty controlling the animal and was offering him the opportunity to let loose a little steam...
Pursing his lips a little, a flicker of movement tightening in the corner of his jaw, Vangelis glanced towards Asia and Imeeya and then to the tree line, measuring the distance by sight alone and coming to an acceptable conclusion. There were no trees around the group anymore, nowhere for an attack to come from or an ambush to be staged. No-one would be able to approach the two young girls without both they and himself witnessing them from far off. Which meant he had time to ride back the distance of the meadow should he need to.
With a call to Asia that the girls not wander too far and stay within eyesight, Vangelis turned his steed to move it around Selene's obtrusive mare. Moving the horse further away from the thickets behind them and fully into the meadow’s grasslands, he turned to check that Selene was joining him readily, the animal beneath him starting to notice the spirit of his competitor and that of their riders, bouncing his front hooves in small rears of excitement.
When Selene offered a comment on whether he was fully healed enough for such a challenge, one of Vangelis' brows rose at such a tempting comment and with a quick shift of his hands and a kick of his heels. Vangelis had his animal launching forwards into a heavy run almost instantly, unwilling, after her taunt to play the gentleman and give her a head start, as he turned to glance over his shoulder at her approach.
Vangelis offered limited reaction to Selene's words but the sidelong glances he gave to her as she spoken clearly showed him to be listening. Or at least, it was clear in his book and apparently in hers too as she never seemed to get annoyed that he wasn't offering his full attention as some people did (not that they ever voiced it aloud to a prince of the realm). His lips quirked down at the corners, his lower lip coming out a little and his brows rising in an expression of consideration when she mentioned it being the role of the eldest to ensure the happiness of younger siblings.
It was interesting to look at it that way, as Vangelis had never seen it so. He saw himself more as a protector and role model to his siblings. Not someone who was to make them happy or protect that happiness... But had did always hope that by performing his role as prince, general and future king to his best abilities; in being that role model and protector - it would somehow result in them each being happy. It was more that he wanted his siblings to live good lives... rather than happy ones... If there was such a difference.
When Selene commented on the energetic spirit of her horse and of her inability to contain its excitement, Vangelis' lips curled in the other direction, upwards into a knowing half smile. Selene and, by extension, the Leventi family were well known for their handling of equine livestock. She had no difficulty controlling the animal and was offering him the opportunity to let loose a little steam...
Pursing his lips a little, a flicker of movement tightening in the corner of his jaw, Vangelis glanced towards Asia and Imeeya and then to the tree line, measuring the distance by sight alone and coming to an acceptable conclusion. There were no trees around the group anymore, nowhere for an attack to come from or an ambush to be staged. No-one would be able to approach the two young girls without both they and himself witnessing them from far off. Which meant he had time to ride back the distance of the meadow should he need to.
With a call to Asia that the girls not wander too far and stay within eyesight, Vangelis turned his steed to move it around Selene's obtrusive mare. Moving the horse further away from the thickets behind them and fully into the meadow’s grasslands, he turned to check that Selene was joining him readily, the animal beneath him starting to notice the spirit of his competitor and that of their riders, bouncing his front hooves in small rears of excitement.
When Selene offered a comment on whether he was fully healed enough for such a challenge, one of Vangelis' brows rose at such a tempting comment and with a quick shift of his hands and a kick of his heels. Vangelis had his animal launching forwards into a heavy run almost instantly, unwilling, after her taunt to play the gentleman and give her a head start, as he turned to glance over his shoulder at her approach.
Of course, she could manage her horse, allowing the beast a bit of freedom to bounce around, to act as if she couldn’t stop the energy Ophelia was showing. She didn’t mind insulting her own abilities to try and get Vangelis to take her bait. Watching him take in the area, make sure that each and every consideration was given for the other two girls, Selene couldn’t help but smile. While he may not have considered himself a thoughtful man, he seemed to be just that.
He was thoughtful of his duty, and what that meant to his companions. It might have only been because of his duty, but there was still the thought there.
The decision seemed to be made, and he worked to turn his horse around. The final bait as to his health did just as she had hoped-- it sealed his determination to prove to her that he was just fine, thank you very much. If she had learned anything from her time with him, it was that he was very contentious of his pride. Her mother had always stressed men and their pride, and how she could use it as a tool to get what she wanted. In this situation, she didn’t mind baiting him, because it worked.
Just like that, he was off.
She let out a laugh, spinning Ophelia around, but holding her back. Selene gave him a few breaths of a head start. With a kick of her heels, her painted beast took off. She hadn’t wanted a head start, hadn’t wanted his ‘kindness’ to get in the way of a good challenge and sprint. Control was easy to maintain, as her horse was used to chances like this to run in this open field.
It was effortless as she closed the distance between the two of them, creating a real race between the pair. Pleased to see it wasn’t going to be an easy match to win, Selene leaned into Ophelia, her hands tight on the reigns as she pushed the beast into going faster, into giving it all she had. She didn’t hold back, and she prayed that he didn’t either.
Not when she wanted to prove that the rumors of her ability weren’t just talk-- it was truth.
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May 27, 2019 17:24:54 GMT
Posted In Ride With Me on May 27, 2019 17:24:54 GMT
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Of course, she could manage her horse, allowing the beast a bit of freedom to bounce around, to act as if she couldn’t stop the energy Ophelia was showing. She didn’t mind insulting her own abilities to try and get Vangelis to take her bait. Watching him take in the area, make sure that each and every consideration was given for the other two girls, Selene couldn’t help but smile. While he may not have considered himself a thoughtful man, he seemed to be just that.
He was thoughtful of his duty, and what that meant to his companions. It might have only been because of his duty, but there was still the thought there.
The decision seemed to be made, and he worked to turn his horse around. The final bait as to his health did just as she had hoped-- it sealed his determination to prove to her that he was just fine, thank you very much. If she had learned anything from her time with him, it was that he was very contentious of his pride. Her mother had always stressed men and their pride, and how she could use it as a tool to get what she wanted. In this situation, she didn’t mind baiting him, because it worked.
Just like that, he was off.
She let out a laugh, spinning Ophelia around, but holding her back. Selene gave him a few breaths of a head start. With a kick of her heels, her painted beast took off. She hadn’t wanted a head start, hadn’t wanted his ‘kindness’ to get in the way of a good challenge and sprint. Control was easy to maintain, as her horse was used to chances like this to run in this open field.
It was effortless as she closed the distance between the two of them, creating a real race between the pair. Pleased to see it wasn’t going to be an easy match to win, Selene leaned into Ophelia, her hands tight on the reigns as she pushed the beast into going faster, into giving it all she had. She didn’t hold back, and she prayed that he didn’t either.
Not when she wanted to prove that the rumors of her ability weren’t just talk-- it was truth.
Of course, she could manage her horse, allowing the beast a bit of freedom to bounce around, to act as if she couldn’t stop the energy Ophelia was showing. She didn’t mind insulting her own abilities to try and get Vangelis to take her bait. Watching him take in the area, make sure that each and every consideration was given for the other two girls, Selene couldn’t help but smile. While he may not have considered himself a thoughtful man, he seemed to be just that.
He was thoughtful of his duty, and what that meant to his companions. It might have only been because of his duty, but there was still the thought there.
The decision seemed to be made, and he worked to turn his horse around. The final bait as to his health did just as she had hoped-- it sealed his determination to prove to her that he was just fine, thank you very much. If she had learned anything from her time with him, it was that he was very contentious of his pride. Her mother had always stressed men and their pride, and how she could use it as a tool to get what she wanted. In this situation, she didn’t mind baiting him, because it worked.
Just like that, he was off.
She let out a laugh, spinning Ophelia around, but holding her back. Selene gave him a few breaths of a head start. With a kick of her heels, her painted beast took off. She hadn’t wanted a head start, hadn’t wanted his ‘kindness’ to get in the way of a good challenge and sprint. Control was easy to maintain, as her horse was used to chances like this to run in this open field.
It was effortless as she closed the distance between the two of them, creating a real race between the pair. Pleased to see it wasn’t going to be an easy match to win, Selene leaned into Ophelia, her hands tight on the reigns as she pushed the beast into going faster, into giving it all she had. She didn’t hold back, and she prayed that he didn’t either.
Not when she wanted to prove that the rumors of her ability weren’t just talk-- it was truth.
Vangelis had slowed up from his initial burst of speed. He had been expecting to. Had had his hands held in ready to draw down on the reins and draw the creature in just a little. To grip his sides with his knees in a way that would command him into a graceful slow of speed; just enough to see Selene catch up to him.
Instead, what he found, upon looking over his shoulder, was the painted mare catching up to his gelding with astonishing speed. And so, he had not adjusted. Not used his hands or his knees but, instead, kicked the creature into a harder run, the heels of his feet sending the animal driving forwards the widen the distance between them once more. Such tactics of simple acceleration, however, were not enough to keep the Leventi off his tail and Vangelis glanced to his side to watch her come closer, keeping in line.
By all rights, Vangelis should have won the race by default. His steed was both male and several hands taller than Selene's boldly built but still inferior mount. Genetically, Vangelis rode the faster animal because his height had demanded a taller beast for his own riding comfort. And yet, her she was. Thundering beside him with a step or two extra to keep pace and not seeming any worse for wear because of it.
Vangelis felt his eyes narrow at the challenge, realising that the skills of a Leventi born daughter were never to be underestimated. Selene's talents as a rider was outstripping his own and encouraging the animal to be of surer foot than he was ever going to convince his own to be. Ensuring that extra modicum of speed that made up the difference between the two animals' natural gifts.
Pressing his steed onwards, Vangelis, found his hands to latch higher on the reins, leaning forwards to give the animal his head as the two of them stormed over the grasslands. The pounding of hooves hammered beneath them the wind was blowing back from his face the locks that had escaped Vangelis' hair tie. The sharp morning air cut across his cheekbones and brow, making his eyes water. The sharp, diving motions of the horse’s head had started to cause the animal to breathe heavy with exertion and Vangelis found himself in a full racing posture, his shoulders bent low, his rear off the saddle and his legs holding in just a few inches from the creatures back. It was a pose only accomplished and particularly strong riders could muster and he was not at all surprised to note that, beneath her skirts, it appeared that Selene was a mirror image of himself, just so.
By the time they were insight of the shadowy edge of the tree line, Vangelis himself breathed a little heavily and he was not at all surprised when Selene completed the race as the master handler she was and encouraged the creature to reach its neck forwards, claiming first place by little more than the length of the animal's snout.
With a quick and assertive move, Vangelis was drawing on the reins, adjusting his legs and bringing the creature to a harsh stop that had grass unearthed and grooves drilled into the earth by the gelding’s hooves. It was only then that he noticed himself to be smiling.
"A fine and well-deserved victory, my Lady." He offered her with a gracious nod. He could have argued the point as some men might have. Pointed out that he rode an animal he was not familiar with whilst her own had been her mount for many years. That her mare could have been exercised every day for the last week while his had been kept in stables in preparation for making her look good. Such thoughts didn't leave his lips because they never entered his head. The Lady Selene was one of the finest horsemen he had seen. There seemed little reason to diminish such a talent.
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May 27, 2019 17:25:15 GMT
Posted In Ride With Me on May 27, 2019 17:25:15 GMT
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Vangelis had slowed up from his initial burst of speed. He had been expecting to. Had had his hands held in ready to draw down on the reins and draw the creature in just a little. To grip his sides with his knees in a way that would command him into a graceful slow of speed; just enough to see Selene catch up to him.
Instead, what he found, upon looking over his shoulder, was the painted mare catching up to his gelding with astonishing speed. And so, he had not adjusted. Not used his hands or his knees but, instead, kicked the creature into a harder run, the heels of his feet sending the animal driving forwards the widen the distance between them once more. Such tactics of simple acceleration, however, were not enough to keep the Leventi off his tail and Vangelis glanced to his side to watch her come closer, keeping in line.
By all rights, Vangelis should have won the race by default. His steed was both male and several hands taller than Selene's boldly built but still inferior mount. Genetically, Vangelis rode the faster animal because his height had demanded a taller beast for his own riding comfort. And yet, her she was. Thundering beside him with a step or two extra to keep pace and not seeming any worse for wear because of it.
Vangelis felt his eyes narrow at the challenge, realising that the skills of a Leventi born daughter were never to be underestimated. Selene's talents as a rider was outstripping his own and encouraging the animal to be of surer foot than he was ever going to convince his own to be. Ensuring that extra modicum of speed that made up the difference between the two animals' natural gifts.
Pressing his steed onwards, Vangelis, found his hands to latch higher on the reins, leaning forwards to give the animal his head as the two of them stormed over the grasslands. The pounding of hooves hammered beneath them the wind was blowing back from his face the locks that had escaped Vangelis' hair tie. The sharp morning air cut across his cheekbones and brow, making his eyes water. The sharp, diving motions of the horse’s head had started to cause the animal to breathe heavy with exertion and Vangelis found himself in a full racing posture, his shoulders bent low, his rear off the saddle and his legs holding in just a few inches from the creatures back. It was a pose only accomplished and particularly strong riders could muster and he was not at all surprised to note that, beneath her skirts, it appeared that Selene was a mirror image of himself, just so.
By the time they were insight of the shadowy edge of the tree line, Vangelis himself breathed a little heavily and he was not at all surprised when Selene completed the race as the master handler she was and encouraged the creature to reach its neck forwards, claiming first place by little more than the length of the animal's snout.
With a quick and assertive move, Vangelis was drawing on the reins, adjusting his legs and bringing the creature to a harsh stop that had grass unearthed and grooves drilled into the earth by the gelding’s hooves. It was only then that he noticed himself to be smiling.
"A fine and well-deserved victory, my Lady." He offered her with a gracious nod. He could have argued the point as some men might have. Pointed out that he rode an animal he was not familiar with whilst her own had been her mount for many years. That her mare could have been exercised every day for the last week while his had been kept in stables in preparation for making her look good. Such thoughts didn't leave his lips because they never entered his head. The Lady Selene was one of the finest horsemen he had seen. There seemed little reason to diminish such a talent.
Vangelis had slowed up from his initial burst of speed. He had been expecting to. Had had his hands held in ready to draw down on the reins and draw the creature in just a little. To grip his sides with his knees in a way that would command him into a graceful slow of speed; just enough to see Selene catch up to him.
Instead, what he found, upon looking over his shoulder, was the painted mare catching up to his gelding with astonishing speed. And so, he had not adjusted. Not used his hands or his knees but, instead, kicked the creature into a harder run, the heels of his feet sending the animal driving forwards the widen the distance between them once more. Such tactics of simple acceleration, however, were not enough to keep the Leventi off his tail and Vangelis glanced to his side to watch her come closer, keeping in line.
By all rights, Vangelis should have won the race by default. His steed was both male and several hands taller than Selene's boldly built but still inferior mount. Genetically, Vangelis rode the faster animal because his height had demanded a taller beast for his own riding comfort. And yet, her she was. Thundering beside him with a step or two extra to keep pace and not seeming any worse for wear because of it.
Vangelis felt his eyes narrow at the challenge, realising that the skills of a Leventi born daughter were never to be underestimated. Selene's talents as a rider was outstripping his own and encouraging the animal to be of surer foot than he was ever going to convince his own to be. Ensuring that extra modicum of speed that made up the difference between the two animals' natural gifts.
Pressing his steed onwards, Vangelis, found his hands to latch higher on the reins, leaning forwards to give the animal his head as the two of them stormed over the grasslands. The pounding of hooves hammered beneath them the wind was blowing back from his face the locks that had escaped Vangelis' hair tie. The sharp morning air cut across his cheekbones and brow, making his eyes water. The sharp, diving motions of the horse’s head had started to cause the animal to breathe heavy with exertion and Vangelis found himself in a full racing posture, his shoulders bent low, his rear off the saddle and his legs holding in just a few inches from the creatures back. It was a pose only accomplished and particularly strong riders could muster and he was not at all surprised to note that, beneath her skirts, it appeared that Selene was a mirror image of himself, just so.
By the time they were insight of the shadowy edge of the tree line, Vangelis himself breathed a little heavily and he was not at all surprised when Selene completed the race as the master handler she was and encouraged the creature to reach its neck forwards, claiming first place by little more than the length of the animal's snout.
With a quick and assertive move, Vangelis was drawing on the reins, adjusting his legs and bringing the creature to a harsh stop that had grass unearthed and grooves drilled into the earth by the gelding’s hooves. It was only then that he noticed himself to be smiling.
"A fine and well-deserved victory, my Lady." He offered her with a gracious nod. He could have argued the point as some men might have. Pointed out that he rode an animal he was not familiar with whilst her own had been her mount for many years. That her mare could have been exercised every day for the last week while his had been kept in stables in preparation for making her look good. Such thoughts didn't leave his lips because they never entered his head. The Lady Selene was one of the finest horsemen he had seen. There seemed little reason to diminish such a talent.
Asia saw the jump from Imeeya, watching as she reigned the horse beneath her into behaving. Why all the anger and animosity, Athanasia couldn't say. Was it because her fear got the best of her on the ship? She didn’t think so. Maybe it was her moment of trying to help the people of Colchis that somehow ended with a house on top of her? She took the scoldings and the punishment in stride, but could that be it?
Asia was looking forwards the ride, having practiced when no-one was around to watch her steeling her resolve at wanting to show that this Kotas was no coward. As they rode through the city, Asia let her eyes wander as Rose followed the two lead horses with a steady gait. With Helios and Apollo making the sun shine bright, it was fine weather to soak up the warmth.
It came as a surprise when her thoughts were interrupted at the sound of her cousin’s snapping question; low in sound but biting all the same.
”How could I do what?” Looking around, she saw that the Lady Selene and Vangelis had moved some ways off, unable to aid her in resolving her confusion. It was then that Imeeya clarified. ”With him? Him, who?” I was not with anyone at the market. I talked with some, I danced with you, I spoke with Lord Lazaros…” Asia paused, eyeing Imeeya. ”Is it because of Lazaros…? Are you… jealous?” Was she? They did accompany each other for some time…?
Her thoughts never touched on Silanos, having removed him from her mind after her talk with Vangelis.
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May 27, 2019 17:25:40 GMT
Posted In Ride With Me on May 27, 2019 17:25:40 GMT
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Asia saw the jump from Imeeya, watching as she reigned the horse beneath her into behaving. Why all the anger and animosity, Athanasia couldn't say. Was it because her fear got the best of her on the ship? She didn’t think so. Maybe it was her moment of trying to help the people of Colchis that somehow ended with a house on top of her? She took the scoldings and the punishment in stride, but could that be it?
Asia was looking forwards the ride, having practiced when no-one was around to watch her steeling her resolve at wanting to show that this Kotas was no coward. As they rode through the city, Asia let her eyes wander as Rose followed the two lead horses with a steady gait. With Helios and Apollo making the sun shine bright, it was fine weather to soak up the warmth.
It came as a surprise when her thoughts were interrupted at the sound of her cousin’s snapping question; low in sound but biting all the same.
”How could I do what?” Looking around, she saw that the Lady Selene and Vangelis had moved some ways off, unable to aid her in resolving her confusion. It was then that Imeeya clarified. ”With him? Him, who?” I was not with anyone at the market. I talked with some, I danced with you, I spoke with Lord Lazaros…” Asia paused, eyeing Imeeya. ”Is it because of Lazaros…? Are you… jealous?” Was she? They did accompany each other for some time…?
Her thoughts never touched on Silanos, having removed him from her mind after her talk with Vangelis.
Asia saw the jump from Imeeya, watching as she reigned the horse beneath her into behaving. Why all the anger and animosity, Athanasia couldn't say. Was it because her fear got the best of her on the ship? She didn’t think so. Maybe it was her moment of trying to help the people of Colchis that somehow ended with a house on top of her? She took the scoldings and the punishment in stride, but could that be it?
Asia was looking forwards the ride, having practiced when no-one was around to watch her steeling her resolve at wanting to show that this Kotas was no coward. As they rode through the city, Asia let her eyes wander as Rose followed the two lead horses with a steady gait. With Helios and Apollo making the sun shine bright, it was fine weather to soak up the warmth.
It came as a surprise when her thoughts were interrupted at the sound of her cousin’s snapping question; low in sound but biting all the same.
”How could I do what?” Looking around, she saw that the Lady Selene and Vangelis had moved some ways off, unable to aid her in resolving her confusion. It was then that Imeeya clarified. ”With him? Him, who?” I was not with anyone at the market. I talked with some, I danced with you, I spoke with Lord Lazaros…” Asia paused, eyeing Imeeya. ”Is it because of Lazaros…? Are you… jealous?” Was she? They did accompany each other for some time…?
Her thoughts never touched on Silanos, having removed him from her mind after her talk with Vangelis.
There was an expectation that he would let her win, simply because that was how most men operated. They believed that it was the honorable thing to do-- to allow a woman an easily won race, regardless of her skillset. And while he initially seemed to slow to allow her to do just that, he quickly seemed to realize that a lead was the last thing she needed. She not only caught up to him but was able to see that he had adjusted his own seat to try and make it a contest.
The smile on her face was evidence of her own thrill at the idea of true competition.
While Vangelis’ horse may have been bigger and stronger, Selene’s was trained in the art of the race. She loved nothing more than to work with the beast on its speed, and Ophelia was continually impressing the girl with her drive to move faster. As they raced on, a decent competitor only made the painted steed more determined to beat the other. It was second nature for her body to take the most agile position, hovering over the horse’s body as they were neck and neck. She loved the wind against her face, turning her alabaster skin pink with the contact. Small wisps of hair escaped her intricate hairstyle, but it stayed for the most part as her split skirts flowing behind her.
She was in her element now, silently pushing her horse faster and faster until she was the first to break the treeline. As if Ophelia knew, with little direction, the horse slowed and spun back around, trotting a bit at her victory. Selene’s breath was hitched a bit as she let herself settle back again her saddle. Reigns dropped, she was busy praising Ophelia when Vang gave his compliment on the victory. Unable to help herself, she beamed back at him, bringing her mount around so that they were now faced to face.
”Thank you for not only indulging me but for making it a real challenge.” Ophelia once against brought her close to him, this time her knee brushed against his as they did, making it apparent just how close they were to each other. Luckily for her, the pink of her cheeks was impossible to distinguish from the race or from the contact. ”It has been a long time since I’ve been able to race like that.” Selene may have been refined, strong and seemingly perfect, but she had a wild spirit to her, much like her horse.
And she rarely was able to show both sides of herself.
Most people wanted the perfect daughter, blessed by Aphrodite and beautiful beyond measure. They wanted the hostess that could keep a room entertained, who could carry on a conversation with anyone in the room. They loved the girl who could make everyone feel welcome, who was tangible but completely untouchable. Her reputation was that of a skilled rider but often didn’t want to see it in person, their own egos more important that one of the most important parts of herself.
But Vangelis seemed to want to enjoy the different sides she had to offer.
She wasn’t sure how long the moment lasted, where her eyes met his and couldn’t look away. But Ophelia stomped a bit, and the air seemed to dissolve a bit. The joy on Selene’s face didn’t diminish, but she did direct her horse one step away, so she was no longer touching his horse as well. ”You are quite the rider as well, it would seem.” Riding a horse into battle and riding one in a speed competition were two different things, and he could do both very well.
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May 27, 2019 17:26:05 GMT
Posted In Ride With Me on May 27, 2019 17:26:05 GMT
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There was an expectation that he would let her win, simply because that was how most men operated. They believed that it was the honorable thing to do-- to allow a woman an easily won race, regardless of her skillset. And while he initially seemed to slow to allow her to do just that, he quickly seemed to realize that a lead was the last thing she needed. She not only caught up to him but was able to see that he had adjusted his own seat to try and make it a contest.
The smile on her face was evidence of her own thrill at the idea of true competition.
While Vangelis’ horse may have been bigger and stronger, Selene’s was trained in the art of the race. She loved nothing more than to work with the beast on its speed, and Ophelia was continually impressing the girl with her drive to move faster. As they raced on, a decent competitor only made the painted steed more determined to beat the other. It was second nature for her body to take the most agile position, hovering over the horse’s body as they were neck and neck. She loved the wind against her face, turning her alabaster skin pink with the contact. Small wisps of hair escaped her intricate hairstyle, but it stayed for the most part as her split skirts flowing behind her.
She was in her element now, silently pushing her horse faster and faster until she was the first to break the treeline. As if Ophelia knew, with little direction, the horse slowed and spun back around, trotting a bit at her victory. Selene’s breath was hitched a bit as she let herself settle back again her saddle. Reigns dropped, she was busy praising Ophelia when Vang gave his compliment on the victory. Unable to help herself, she beamed back at him, bringing her mount around so that they were now faced to face.
”Thank you for not only indulging me but for making it a real challenge.” Ophelia once against brought her close to him, this time her knee brushed against his as they did, making it apparent just how close they were to each other. Luckily for her, the pink of her cheeks was impossible to distinguish from the race or from the contact. ”It has been a long time since I’ve been able to race like that.” Selene may have been refined, strong and seemingly perfect, but she had a wild spirit to her, much like her horse.
And she rarely was able to show both sides of herself.
Most people wanted the perfect daughter, blessed by Aphrodite and beautiful beyond measure. They wanted the hostess that could keep a room entertained, who could carry on a conversation with anyone in the room. They loved the girl who could make everyone feel welcome, who was tangible but completely untouchable. Her reputation was that of a skilled rider but often didn’t want to see it in person, their own egos more important that one of the most important parts of herself.
But Vangelis seemed to want to enjoy the different sides she had to offer.
She wasn’t sure how long the moment lasted, where her eyes met his and couldn’t look away. But Ophelia stomped a bit, and the air seemed to dissolve a bit. The joy on Selene’s face didn’t diminish, but she did direct her horse one step away, so she was no longer touching his horse as well. ”You are quite the rider as well, it would seem.” Riding a horse into battle and riding one in a speed competition were two different things, and he could do both very well.
There was an expectation that he would let her win, simply because that was how most men operated. They believed that it was the honorable thing to do-- to allow a woman an easily won race, regardless of her skillset. And while he initially seemed to slow to allow her to do just that, he quickly seemed to realize that a lead was the last thing she needed. She not only caught up to him but was able to see that he had adjusted his own seat to try and make it a contest.
The smile on her face was evidence of her own thrill at the idea of true competition.
While Vangelis’ horse may have been bigger and stronger, Selene’s was trained in the art of the race. She loved nothing more than to work with the beast on its speed, and Ophelia was continually impressing the girl with her drive to move faster. As they raced on, a decent competitor only made the painted steed more determined to beat the other. It was second nature for her body to take the most agile position, hovering over the horse’s body as they were neck and neck. She loved the wind against her face, turning her alabaster skin pink with the contact. Small wisps of hair escaped her intricate hairstyle, but it stayed for the most part as her split skirts flowing behind her.
She was in her element now, silently pushing her horse faster and faster until she was the first to break the treeline. As if Ophelia knew, with little direction, the horse slowed and spun back around, trotting a bit at her victory. Selene’s breath was hitched a bit as she let herself settle back again her saddle. Reigns dropped, she was busy praising Ophelia when Vang gave his compliment on the victory. Unable to help herself, she beamed back at him, bringing her mount around so that they were now faced to face.
”Thank you for not only indulging me but for making it a real challenge.” Ophelia once against brought her close to him, this time her knee brushed against his as they did, making it apparent just how close they were to each other. Luckily for her, the pink of her cheeks was impossible to distinguish from the race or from the contact. ”It has been a long time since I’ve been able to race like that.” Selene may have been refined, strong and seemingly perfect, but she had a wild spirit to her, much like her horse.
And she rarely was able to show both sides of herself.
Most people wanted the perfect daughter, blessed by Aphrodite and beautiful beyond measure. They wanted the hostess that could keep a room entertained, who could carry on a conversation with anyone in the room. They loved the girl who could make everyone feel welcome, who was tangible but completely untouchable. Her reputation was that of a skilled rider but often didn’t want to see it in person, their own egos more important that one of the most important parts of herself.
But Vangelis seemed to want to enjoy the different sides she had to offer.
She wasn’t sure how long the moment lasted, where her eyes met his and couldn’t look away. But Ophelia stomped a bit, and the air seemed to dissolve a bit. The joy on Selene’s face didn’t diminish, but she did direct her horse one step away, so she was no longer touching his horse as well. ”You are quite the rider as well, it would seem.” Riding a horse into battle and riding one in a speed competition were two different things, and he could do both very well.
When the lady Selene offered him thanks for allowing her a fair contest, Vangelis' brow dropped a little into a frown before immediately clearing. The momentary expression showed two things; that the idea of allowing her to win had never crossed his mind because it seemed stupid to him, but that he had intelligence enough to instantly realise why others may not feel it to be so moronic. She was a beautiful woman from a rich family. It was perfectly likely and understandable - to some extent - that men might allow her to win horseraces simply to flatter her ego.
"I've never allowed you to win Mercenaries." Vangelis offered her with a tweak of his lips that was almost taunting. "Why would I do so at something you're so obviously skilled at..." The last really was a jibe. Well, if she could taunt him of his physical strength, she deserved a little poking regarding her - so far - inability to beat him at the board game. His eyes flashed as they met hers and her horse came closer...
Noticing something, Vangelis let go of the reins of his steed and, perfectly naturally - as if he felt perfect allowance in doing so - he reached over to touch a lock of Selene's hair. It was one of the longer pieces, that had come free in the breeze of their run and he just naturally moved it backwards, hooking it behind her ear so that it was less obviously astray. His finger-tips brushed the shell of her ear as he drew them back.
Her hair had felt like silk, but then everything seemed soft to his calloused and war-torn touch.
As if suddenly realising the assumptions he had made by presuming to be allowed to touch her, Vangelis cleared his throat momentary, took the reins back in hand and straightened his seat.
"My apologies." He commented in a deep tone that was almost a murmur...
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May 27, 2019 17:26:35 GMT
Posted In Ride With Me on May 27, 2019 17:26:35 GMT
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When the lady Selene offered him thanks for allowing her a fair contest, Vangelis' brow dropped a little into a frown before immediately clearing. The momentary expression showed two things; that the idea of allowing her to win had never crossed his mind because it seemed stupid to him, but that he had intelligence enough to instantly realise why others may not feel it to be so moronic. She was a beautiful woman from a rich family. It was perfectly likely and understandable - to some extent - that men might allow her to win horseraces simply to flatter her ego.
"I've never allowed you to win Mercenaries." Vangelis offered her with a tweak of his lips that was almost taunting. "Why would I do so at something you're so obviously skilled at..." The last really was a jibe. Well, if she could taunt him of his physical strength, she deserved a little poking regarding her - so far - inability to beat him at the board game. His eyes flashed as they met hers and her horse came closer...
Noticing something, Vangelis let go of the reins of his steed and, perfectly naturally - as if he felt perfect allowance in doing so - he reached over to touch a lock of Selene's hair. It was one of the longer pieces, that had come free in the breeze of their run and he just naturally moved it backwards, hooking it behind her ear so that it was less obviously astray. His finger-tips brushed the shell of her ear as he drew them back.
Her hair had felt like silk, but then everything seemed soft to his calloused and war-torn touch.
As if suddenly realising the assumptions he had made by presuming to be allowed to touch her, Vangelis cleared his throat momentary, took the reins back in hand and straightened his seat.
"My apologies." He commented in a deep tone that was almost a murmur...
When the lady Selene offered him thanks for allowing her a fair contest, Vangelis' brow dropped a little into a frown before immediately clearing. The momentary expression showed two things; that the idea of allowing her to win had never crossed his mind because it seemed stupid to him, but that he had intelligence enough to instantly realise why others may not feel it to be so moronic. She was a beautiful woman from a rich family. It was perfectly likely and understandable - to some extent - that men might allow her to win horseraces simply to flatter her ego.
"I've never allowed you to win Mercenaries." Vangelis offered her with a tweak of his lips that was almost taunting. "Why would I do so at something you're so obviously skilled at..." The last really was a jibe. Well, if she could taunt him of his physical strength, she deserved a little poking regarding her - so far - inability to beat him at the board game. His eyes flashed as they met hers and her horse came closer...
Noticing something, Vangelis let go of the reins of his steed and, perfectly naturally - as if he felt perfect allowance in doing so - he reached over to touch a lock of Selene's hair. It was one of the longer pieces, that had come free in the breeze of their run and he just naturally moved it backwards, hooking it behind her ear so that it was less obviously astray. His finger-tips brushed the shell of her ear as he drew them back.
Her hair had felt like silk, but then everything seemed soft to his calloused and war-torn touch.
As if suddenly realising the assumptions he had made by presuming to be allowed to touch her, Vangelis cleared his throat momentary, took the reins back in hand and straightened his seat.
"My apologies." He commented in a deep tone that was almost a murmur...
Selene had studied his face (without knowing she had been) enough not to miss the subtle change in his expression. As quickly as it was there, it was gone. And she was certain that it was because he had very honest opinions about how others tried to impress her. But she kept her mouth shut, inwardly pleased that he seemed to dislike the standards that were set by others.
And perhaps that was part of her attraction to him. He never placed her value in just her beauty. He challenged her and demanded that she be more than just the beautiful woman others saw her be. And it ruined every other encounter she had with men-- who only saw her as a prize because she was rich and pretty.
His comment about mercenaries made her laugh outright, Ophelia turning her head at the sound before focusing on the grass below. ”And yet I seem to keep trying as if one day I will be good enough to take you down on my own.” She truly enjoyed the challenge he presented to her. Each game was always met with their best foot forward and they never seemed to give half measure. So she was genuinely pleased that she was able to truly beat him, to challenge him in a different way. ”You’ll have to work on your horsemanship, then.” She sat up straighter in her saddle, feeling lighter than she had in days.
She was so focused on his face that she didn’t realize that he was leaning in closer to her. Not until she was certain that she could count each long, dark lash on his face. Each spot from the sun seemed to be visible, and she was sure that she could see the varying shades of blue in his eyes. Were they more gray than blue? His hand came up to her face, brushing the fallen hair back behind her ear, and she was certain that her cheeks had flushed to the point of her ears. She almost brought her hand up to meet his, to hold it there for just a moment longer.
But then, he pulled away, and the moment was broken between the two. If she could have flushed more, she would have. Instead, she picked up her own discarded reigns, trying to focus on anything but the pulse of her heart and the tingle that his touch had left behind. Selene cleared her throat, ”Thank you, Vangelis” She copied his motion with the same strand, making sure it was tucked away properly before letting the feeling of her heart clenching in her chest.
My gods, she was falling for him.
Which was ridiculous, because he had never shown any notion of them being anything more than friends. She needed to reel in her imagination before she went insane. ”You have been a good friend and I truly do appreciate that.” Did it sound as silly to him as the words had been in her head?
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May 27, 2019 17:27:03 GMT
Posted In Ride With Me on May 27, 2019 17:27:03 GMT
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Selene had studied his face (without knowing she had been) enough not to miss the subtle change in his expression. As quickly as it was there, it was gone. And she was certain that it was because he had very honest opinions about how others tried to impress her. But she kept her mouth shut, inwardly pleased that he seemed to dislike the standards that were set by others.
And perhaps that was part of her attraction to him. He never placed her value in just her beauty. He challenged her and demanded that she be more than just the beautiful woman others saw her be. And it ruined every other encounter she had with men-- who only saw her as a prize because she was rich and pretty.
His comment about mercenaries made her laugh outright, Ophelia turning her head at the sound before focusing on the grass below. ”And yet I seem to keep trying as if one day I will be good enough to take you down on my own.” She truly enjoyed the challenge he presented to her. Each game was always met with their best foot forward and they never seemed to give half measure. So she was genuinely pleased that she was able to truly beat him, to challenge him in a different way. ”You’ll have to work on your horsemanship, then.” She sat up straighter in her saddle, feeling lighter than she had in days.
She was so focused on his face that she didn’t realize that he was leaning in closer to her. Not until she was certain that she could count each long, dark lash on his face. Each spot from the sun seemed to be visible, and she was sure that she could see the varying shades of blue in his eyes. Were they more gray than blue? His hand came up to her face, brushing the fallen hair back behind her ear, and she was certain that her cheeks had flushed to the point of her ears. She almost brought her hand up to meet his, to hold it there for just a moment longer.
But then, he pulled away, and the moment was broken between the two. If she could have flushed more, she would have. Instead, she picked up her own discarded reigns, trying to focus on anything but the pulse of her heart and the tingle that his touch had left behind. Selene cleared her throat, ”Thank you, Vangelis” She copied his motion with the same strand, making sure it was tucked away properly before letting the feeling of her heart clenching in her chest.
My gods, she was falling for him.
Which was ridiculous, because he had never shown any notion of them being anything more than friends. She needed to reel in her imagination before she went insane. ”You have been a good friend and I truly do appreciate that.” Did it sound as silly to him as the words had been in her head?
Selene had studied his face (without knowing she had been) enough not to miss the subtle change in his expression. As quickly as it was there, it was gone. And she was certain that it was because he had very honest opinions about how others tried to impress her. But she kept her mouth shut, inwardly pleased that he seemed to dislike the standards that were set by others.
And perhaps that was part of her attraction to him. He never placed her value in just her beauty. He challenged her and demanded that she be more than just the beautiful woman others saw her be. And it ruined every other encounter she had with men-- who only saw her as a prize because she was rich and pretty.
His comment about mercenaries made her laugh outright, Ophelia turning her head at the sound before focusing on the grass below. ”And yet I seem to keep trying as if one day I will be good enough to take you down on my own.” She truly enjoyed the challenge he presented to her. Each game was always met with their best foot forward and they never seemed to give half measure. So she was genuinely pleased that she was able to truly beat him, to challenge him in a different way. ”You’ll have to work on your horsemanship, then.” She sat up straighter in her saddle, feeling lighter than she had in days.
She was so focused on his face that she didn’t realize that he was leaning in closer to her. Not until she was certain that she could count each long, dark lash on his face. Each spot from the sun seemed to be visible, and she was sure that she could see the varying shades of blue in his eyes. Were they more gray than blue? His hand came up to her face, brushing the fallen hair back behind her ear, and she was certain that her cheeks had flushed to the point of her ears. She almost brought her hand up to meet his, to hold it there for just a moment longer.
But then, he pulled away, and the moment was broken between the two. If she could have flushed more, she would have. Instead, she picked up her own discarded reigns, trying to focus on anything but the pulse of her heart and the tingle that his touch had left behind. Selene cleared her throat, ”Thank you, Vangelis” She copied his motion with the same strand, making sure it was tucked away properly before letting the feeling of her heart clenching in her chest.
My gods, she was falling for him.
Which was ridiculous, because he had never shown any notion of them being anything more than friends. She needed to reel in her imagination before she went insane. ”You have been a good friend and I truly do appreciate that.” Did it sound as silly to him as the words had been in her head?
Vangelis nodded at her thanks but showed little more reaction than that, as he pushed away thoughts of how very silken that lock of hair had been. It was wrong to reduce a friend down to their biology and he refused to consider that this woman was anything less than the sum of her parts - internal and mental included. She had done it for him and he could do not less. That was what friendship was about.
With her words of compliment, Vangelis was - indeed - a little surprised as how they appeared a little blurted, but then he was a blunt man with blunt conversation skills so he didn't dwell on it and he in no way was offended by it. Instead he was simply a little... flattered... that the lady thought his friendship (over all things about himself that had been commented on before) was worthy of thanks. It set off a little warmth in the centre of his chest.
"Likewise." Was his creative and horrendously inferior reply back.
As an awkward but not unpleasant silence seemed to come down between the two of them, Vangelis sought for another topic of conversation as she turned his mount and started to lead them back towards the other two of their party. This time, they walked the distance, meaning that they would have plenty of time to fill with conversation and as Vangelis was not used to idle chit-chat he needed a topic of substance upon which they could speak.
Keeping an eye on his sister ahead, his thoughts naturally transitioned to the plans they had for the next week or so.
"We are to travel to the Dimitrous in a few days." Vangelis offered by way of starting a discussion. "Do you, perhaps, have any advice on how to speak and associate with the family? Lady Dorothea to be most specific...?" The last thing he wanted to do was have his sister offend the girl she was supposed to be here to learn from. If there was something regarding her personal feelings or considerations that it was best not to step on, Vangelis felt it best to be forearmed now...
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May 27, 2019 17:27:27 GMT
Posted In Ride With Me on May 27, 2019 17:27:27 GMT
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Vangelis nodded at her thanks but showed little more reaction than that, as he pushed away thoughts of how very silken that lock of hair had been. It was wrong to reduce a friend down to their biology and he refused to consider that this woman was anything less than the sum of her parts - internal and mental included. She had done it for him and he could do not less. That was what friendship was about.
With her words of compliment, Vangelis was - indeed - a little surprised as how they appeared a little blurted, but then he was a blunt man with blunt conversation skills so he didn't dwell on it and he in no way was offended by it. Instead he was simply a little... flattered... that the lady thought his friendship (over all things about himself that had been commented on before) was worthy of thanks. It set off a little warmth in the centre of his chest.
"Likewise." Was his creative and horrendously inferior reply back.
As an awkward but not unpleasant silence seemed to come down between the two of them, Vangelis sought for another topic of conversation as she turned his mount and started to lead them back towards the other two of their party. This time, they walked the distance, meaning that they would have plenty of time to fill with conversation and as Vangelis was not used to idle chit-chat he needed a topic of substance upon which they could speak.
Keeping an eye on his sister ahead, his thoughts naturally transitioned to the plans they had for the next week or so.
"We are to travel to the Dimitrous in a few days." Vangelis offered by way of starting a discussion. "Do you, perhaps, have any advice on how to speak and associate with the family? Lady Dorothea to be most specific...?" The last thing he wanted to do was have his sister offend the girl she was supposed to be here to learn from. If there was something regarding her personal feelings or considerations that it was best not to step on, Vangelis felt it best to be forearmed now...
Vangelis nodded at her thanks but showed little more reaction than that, as he pushed away thoughts of how very silken that lock of hair had been. It was wrong to reduce a friend down to their biology and he refused to consider that this woman was anything less than the sum of her parts - internal and mental included. She had done it for him and he could do not less. That was what friendship was about.
With her words of compliment, Vangelis was - indeed - a little surprised as how they appeared a little blurted, but then he was a blunt man with blunt conversation skills so he didn't dwell on it and he in no way was offended by it. Instead he was simply a little... flattered... that the lady thought his friendship (over all things about himself that had been commented on before) was worthy of thanks. It set off a little warmth in the centre of his chest.
"Likewise." Was his creative and horrendously inferior reply back.
As an awkward but not unpleasant silence seemed to come down between the two of them, Vangelis sought for another topic of conversation as she turned his mount and started to lead them back towards the other two of their party. This time, they walked the distance, meaning that they would have plenty of time to fill with conversation and as Vangelis was not used to idle chit-chat he needed a topic of substance upon which they could speak.
Keeping an eye on his sister ahead, his thoughts naturally transitioned to the plans they had for the next week or so.
"We are to travel to the Dimitrous in a few days." Vangelis offered by way of starting a discussion. "Do you, perhaps, have any advice on how to speak and associate with the family? Lady Dorothea to be most specific...?" The last thing he wanted to do was have his sister offend the girl she was supposed to be here to learn from. If there was something regarding her personal feelings or considerations that it was best not to step on, Vangelis felt it best to be forearmed now...
Selene couldn’t help but feel like she was missing something. For a moment, there had been a spark. She had been hoping she would have felt it with Zacharias, all those years of moments of flirtation and what felt like attraction, only to learn that it had been for nothing because he was dead. She had wanted to be Queen then, had wanted what he had to offer, even if there wasn’t much of a physical attraction.
But with Vangelis, it had been different. It had been a time when the idea of marrying a royal meant death and heartbreak, and for her, it was more danger than she was willing to take on. It had never been about his title, or about trying to marry him. It had been about him, as a person. And suddenly, before she knew it, there was a subtle feeling that surrounded her when he was mentioned. She found herself anxious for his letters, replying as soon as she received them. And reading them against past letters to make sure she wasn’t missing anything.
She couldn’t help herself, and now, she was wondering if she was just reading too much into it.
As a quiet lull covered them, Selene tried not to replay the scene in her mind. She tried not to think about the look in his eye as he brushed the hair away, or the way he seemed to linger for just a moment before moving his hand. And she certainly did try and analyze the shock and amusement in her outright win. His words brought her attention back to him, focusing on him as he mentioned that they would be moving to their intended residence in a few days.
She tried to focus on the words of her uncle, that Dorothea was not someone worthy of a prince. But his question on how to speak with the lady gave her pause. Ignoring the drop of her stomach and the lump in her throat, she offered a smile. ”I feel you will find the lady far easier to speak with than you would think. She is fairly straightforward one on one.” The words felt rough on her tongue, but she had made it clear that she was a friend, and there was no reason for her not to provide him with an honest assessment of the lady. ”She can be shy, yes, but she is far closer in demeanor to your sister than, say, Nana. A little more refined, maybe.” She teased as she watched the two girls ahead of them, unable to deny that their appeared to be some tension in the conversation they were having.
“Lord Iason has always been a gentleman in my contact with him. I have not often been alone in his company to be able to tell you more.” Her focus had always been for the crown prince, and since the Circus, she’d rarely had time to look elsewhere for a suitable husband.
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May 27, 2019 17:27:55 GMT
Posted In Ride With Me on May 27, 2019 17:27:55 GMT
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Selene couldn’t help but feel like she was missing something. For a moment, there had been a spark. She had been hoping she would have felt it with Zacharias, all those years of moments of flirtation and what felt like attraction, only to learn that it had been for nothing because he was dead. She had wanted to be Queen then, had wanted what he had to offer, even if there wasn’t much of a physical attraction.
But with Vangelis, it had been different. It had been a time when the idea of marrying a royal meant death and heartbreak, and for her, it was more danger than she was willing to take on. It had never been about his title, or about trying to marry him. It had been about him, as a person. And suddenly, before she knew it, there was a subtle feeling that surrounded her when he was mentioned. She found herself anxious for his letters, replying as soon as she received them. And reading them against past letters to make sure she wasn’t missing anything.
She couldn’t help herself, and now, she was wondering if she was just reading too much into it.
As a quiet lull covered them, Selene tried not to replay the scene in her mind. She tried not to think about the look in his eye as he brushed the hair away, or the way he seemed to linger for just a moment before moving his hand. And she certainly did try and analyze the shock and amusement in her outright win. His words brought her attention back to him, focusing on him as he mentioned that they would be moving to their intended residence in a few days.
She tried to focus on the words of her uncle, that Dorothea was not someone worthy of a prince. But his question on how to speak with the lady gave her pause. Ignoring the drop of her stomach and the lump in her throat, she offered a smile. ”I feel you will find the lady far easier to speak with than you would think. She is fairly straightforward one on one.” The words felt rough on her tongue, but she had made it clear that she was a friend, and there was no reason for her not to provide him with an honest assessment of the lady. ”She can be shy, yes, but she is far closer in demeanor to your sister than, say, Nana. A little more refined, maybe.” She teased as she watched the two girls ahead of them, unable to deny that their appeared to be some tension in the conversation they were having.
“Lord Iason has always been a gentleman in my contact with him. I have not often been alone in his company to be able to tell you more.” Her focus had always been for the crown prince, and since the Circus, she’d rarely had time to look elsewhere for a suitable husband.
Selene couldn’t help but feel like she was missing something. For a moment, there had been a spark. She had been hoping she would have felt it with Zacharias, all those years of moments of flirtation and what felt like attraction, only to learn that it had been for nothing because he was dead. She had wanted to be Queen then, had wanted what he had to offer, even if there wasn’t much of a physical attraction.
But with Vangelis, it had been different. It had been a time when the idea of marrying a royal meant death and heartbreak, and for her, it was more danger than she was willing to take on. It had never been about his title, or about trying to marry him. It had been about him, as a person. And suddenly, before she knew it, there was a subtle feeling that surrounded her when he was mentioned. She found herself anxious for his letters, replying as soon as she received them. And reading them against past letters to make sure she wasn’t missing anything.
She couldn’t help herself, and now, she was wondering if she was just reading too much into it.
As a quiet lull covered them, Selene tried not to replay the scene in her mind. She tried not to think about the look in his eye as he brushed the hair away, or the way he seemed to linger for just a moment before moving his hand. And she certainly did try and analyze the shock and amusement in her outright win. His words brought her attention back to him, focusing on him as he mentioned that they would be moving to their intended residence in a few days.
She tried to focus on the words of her uncle, that Dorothea was not someone worthy of a prince. But his question on how to speak with the lady gave her pause. Ignoring the drop of her stomach and the lump in her throat, she offered a smile. ”I feel you will find the lady far easier to speak with than you would think. She is fairly straightforward one on one.” The words felt rough on her tongue, but she had made it clear that she was a friend, and there was no reason for her not to provide him with an honest assessment of the lady. ”She can be shy, yes, but she is far closer in demeanor to your sister than, say, Nana. A little more refined, maybe.” She teased as she watched the two girls ahead of them, unable to deny that their appeared to be some tension in the conversation they were having.
“Lord Iason has always been a gentleman in my contact with him. I have not often been alone in his company to be able to tell you more.” Her focus had always been for the crown prince, and since the Circus, she’d rarely had time to look elsewhere for a suitable husband.
Imeeya was surprised by Athanasia’s refusal to admit what had happened at the market. Her cousin’s apparent attempt to play dumb about the kiss, only served to fan the flames of her anger. But it brought her up short when Asia mentioned Lazaros. It was true that he had walked her home, and that walk had been very pleasant. Imeeya could feel a bit of a flush rising in her cheeks at the thought of that night, and the feel of his arm on hers.. She couldn’t begin to imagine why. They hadn’t done anything but walk with each other. Yet, she could still feel herself becoming flustered, something that wouldn’t serve her well during a confrontation with Asia.
”Look this isn’t about me.” Imeeya replied, allowing her anger to cut through her unexplainable feelings at the mention of Lazaros’s name. ”This is about you.” Imeeya briefly looked ahead of them to ensure that Selene and Vang were far enough out of earshot. She lowered her voice anyway before continuing. If any of these rumors got out it could affect her cousin’s reputation. Angry as she was, she’d never want to do anything to cause harm to her cousin and best friend. ”And that man you kissed at the market.” Imeeya paused again trying to reign in any increase in her volume. ”Don’t try denying it. I saw everything.” Well, she may have only seen the end of what was happening, but Asia didn’t need to know it. The glare in Imeeya’s eyes dared Asia to try to act innocent.
The horse, meanwhile, continued along on its plodding pace, seemingly oblivious to the argument going on above it. As unforeseen as it must have been, the choice of the docile horses had been the correct choice to avoid the danger of such a volatile conversation taking place on the back of such skittish animals.
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Imeeya was surprised by Athanasia’s refusal to admit what had happened at the market. Her cousin’s apparent attempt to play dumb about the kiss, only served to fan the flames of her anger. But it brought her up short when Asia mentioned Lazaros. It was true that he had walked her home, and that walk had been very pleasant. Imeeya could feel a bit of a flush rising in her cheeks at the thought of that night, and the feel of his arm on hers.. She couldn’t begin to imagine why. They hadn’t done anything but walk with each other. Yet, she could still feel herself becoming flustered, something that wouldn’t serve her well during a confrontation with Asia.
”Look this isn’t about me.” Imeeya replied, allowing her anger to cut through her unexplainable feelings at the mention of Lazaros’s name. ”This is about you.” Imeeya briefly looked ahead of them to ensure that Selene and Vang were far enough out of earshot. She lowered her voice anyway before continuing. If any of these rumors got out it could affect her cousin’s reputation. Angry as she was, she’d never want to do anything to cause harm to her cousin and best friend. ”And that man you kissed at the market.” Imeeya paused again trying to reign in any increase in her volume. ”Don’t try denying it. I saw everything.” Well, she may have only seen the end of what was happening, but Asia didn’t need to know it. The glare in Imeeya’s eyes dared Asia to try to act innocent.
The horse, meanwhile, continued along on its plodding pace, seemingly oblivious to the argument going on above it. As unforeseen as it must have been, the choice of the docile horses had been the correct choice to avoid the danger of such a volatile conversation taking place on the back of such skittish animals.
Imeeya was surprised by Athanasia’s refusal to admit what had happened at the market. Her cousin’s apparent attempt to play dumb about the kiss, only served to fan the flames of her anger. But it brought her up short when Asia mentioned Lazaros. It was true that he had walked her home, and that walk had been very pleasant. Imeeya could feel a bit of a flush rising in her cheeks at the thought of that night, and the feel of his arm on hers.. She couldn’t begin to imagine why. They hadn’t done anything but walk with each other. Yet, she could still feel herself becoming flustered, something that wouldn’t serve her well during a confrontation with Asia.
”Look this isn’t about me.” Imeeya replied, allowing her anger to cut through her unexplainable feelings at the mention of Lazaros’s name. ”This is about you.” Imeeya briefly looked ahead of them to ensure that Selene and Vang were far enough out of earshot. She lowered her voice anyway before continuing. If any of these rumors got out it could affect her cousin’s reputation. Angry as she was, she’d never want to do anything to cause harm to her cousin and best friend. ”And that man you kissed at the market.” Imeeya paused again trying to reign in any increase in her volume. ”Don’t try denying it. I saw everything.” Well, she may have only seen the end of what was happening, but Asia didn’t need to know it. The glare in Imeeya’s eyes dared Asia to try to act innocent.
The horse, meanwhile, continued along on its plodding pace, seemingly oblivious to the argument going on above it. As unforeseen as it must have been, the choice of the docile horses had been the correct choice to avoid the danger of such a volatile conversation taking place on the back of such skittish animals.
Vangelis offered a polite nod when Selene finished speaking regarding the Dimitrous. Vangelis was first cousin to the Lord Iason and his siblings but it was hard to assess how they had grown and what they might not be like when he had barely known them in his youth and now knew them still less from a lack of time spent in Taengea, and theirs in Colchis. Whilst his mother, the Queen Yanni, had always impressed upon Vangelis and his siblings that they were bred and came from proud and dignified stock on both sides of their parentage; and told that the Dimitrou name was one of great respect and honour - it had always been clear that the Dimitrous were an aspect of their lineage rather than of their life. He and his siblings were proud to harbour Dimitrou blood, but they were, for all intents and purposes, Kotas born.
When his companion commented on the Lady Dorothea being a little like Asia, though more refined, Vangelis could not help the small, half smile that toyed with the corner of his mouth. Yes, it wasn't hard to be more refined than Asia. But at least a similarity between the girls would make it less likely that she might offend the woman she was supposed to be accepting a favour from in learning the art of archery.
"In which case, I can rest easy, knowing that my sister won't entirely alienate us from the family with her rough mannerisms." He commented, before glancing at Selene and then on ahead again. "I know that I am not the most refined of men but I seem to cause less offence than an undignified woman can cause. I'm not sure if that's a benefit of my sex or a personal trait but, either way, I am not blind to it."
He glanced again for a moment at the elegant lady who rode beside him as quiet fell over the conversation. Whilst he was not a man to bother with idle chatter and general talk for the sake of filling a void had always irritated him, Vangelis felt a small and unfamiliar desire to continue the conversation somehow. Not because he disliked the quiet - silence always suited him fine - but because he found that he enjoyed speaking with Selene.
Casting around for something to discuss, Vangelis offered a new topic of conversation.
"What are you plans after our party leave to return to Colchis, my Lady?" He asked her. "The lives of your sisters seemed dramatic enough, yet less so for yourself...?"
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Vangelis offered a polite nod when Selene finished speaking regarding the Dimitrous. Vangelis was first cousin to the Lord Iason and his siblings but it was hard to assess how they had grown and what they might not be like when he had barely known them in his youth and now knew them still less from a lack of time spent in Taengea, and theirs in Colchis. Whilst his mother, the Queen Yanni, had always impressed upon Vangelis and his siblings that they were bred and came from proud and dignified stock on both sides of their parentage; and told that the Dimitrou name was one of great respect and honour - it had always been clear that the Dimitrous were an aspect of their lineage rather than of their life. He and his siblings were proud to harbour Dimitrou blood, but they were, for all intents and purposes, Kotas born.
When his companion commented on the Lady Dorothea being a little like Asia, though more refined, Vangelis could not help the small, half smile that toyed with the corner of his mouth. Yes, it wasn't hard to be more refined than Asia. But at least a similarity between the girls would make it less likely that she might offend the woman she was supposed to be accepting a favour from in learning the art of archery.
"In which case, I can rest easy, knowing that my sister won't entirely alienate us from the family with her rough mannerisms." He commented, before glancing at Selene and then on ahead again. "I know that I am not the most refined of men but I seem to cause less offence than an undignified woman can cause. I'm not sure if that's a benefit of my sex or a personal trait but, either way, I am not blind to it."
He glanced again for a moment at the elegant lady who rode beside him as quiet fell over the conversation. Whilst he was not a man to bother with idle chatter and general talk for the sake of filling a void had always irritated him, Vangelis felt a small and unfamiliar desire to continue the conversation somehow. Not because he disliked the quiet - silence always suited him fine - but because he found that he enjoyed speaking with Selene.
Casting around for something to discuss, Vangelis offered a new topic of conversation.
"What are you plans after our party leave to return to Colchis, my Lady?" He asked her. "The lives of your sisters seemed dramatic enough, yet less so for yourself...?"
Vangelis offered a polite nod when Selene finished speaking regarding the Dimitrous. Vangelis was first cousin to the Lord Iason and his siblings but it was hard to assess how they had grown and what they might not be like when he had barely known them in his youth and now knew them still less from a lack of time spent in Taengea, and theirs in Colchis. Whilst his mother, the Queen Yanni, had always impressed upon Vangelis and his siblings that they were bred and came from proud and dignified stock on both sides of their parentage; and told that the Dimitrou name was one of great respect and honour - it had always been clear that the Dimitrous were an aspect of their lineage rather than of their life. He and his siblings were proud to harbour Dimitrou blood, but they were, for all intents and purposes, Kotas born.
When his companion commented on the Lady Dorothea being a little like Asia, though more refined, Vangelis could not help the small, half smile that toyed with the corner of his mouth. Yes, it wasn't hard to be more refined than Asia. But at least a similarity between the girls would make it less likely that she might offend the woman she was supposed to be accepting a favour from in learning the art of archery.
"In which case, I can rest easy, knowing that my sister won't entirely alienate us from the family with her rough mannerisms." He commented, before glancing at Selene and then on ahead again. "I know that I am not the most refined of men but I seem to cause less offence than an undignified woman can cause. I'm not sure if that's a benefit of my sex or a personal trait but, either way, I am not blind to it."
He glanced again for a moment at the elegant lady who rode beside him as quiet fell over the conversation. Whilst he was not a man to bother with idle chatter and general talk for the sake of filling a void had always irritated him, Vangelis felt a small and unfamiliar desire to continue the conversation somehow. Not because he disliked the quiet - silence always suited him fine - but because he found that he enjoyed speaking with Selene.
Casting around for something to discuss, Vangelis offered a new topic of conversation.
"What are you plans after our party leave to return to Colchis, my Lady?" He asked her. "The lives of your sisters seemed dramatic enough, yet less so for yourself...?"
Selene wanted to be a bit more insightful when it came to his question, but she just wasn’t as close the Dimitrous. Her sisters had always pulled her focus, always demanded her attention. She was always available for small talk and the like, but her investment had been drawn to obtaining a marriage that ended with her as Queen of Taengea. Never rude, the eldest was always good for polite conversation. But there hadn’t been a connection between the families. Instead, she did her duty and focused on what mattered.
The relief in knowing that his sister would make it easier did nothing to ease the ball of tension that seemed to be filling her belly. She wasn’t sure exactly what he was expecting from the encounter, and she was working hard not to think more of it than just wishing to not offend him. And yet, she was frustrated by her own wandering mind. She was expected to keep the Kotas family happy. She could hear her uncle’s voice in her mind, pushing her to try and do better. To push for more.
But that was not how she liked to act. And that hadn’t been her relationship with the Kotas family to push.
Her giggle may have reached her eyes, but her smile was bright either way. ”As a man, the expectations of refinement are less. Most women expect a bit of roughness from a man, so there is an allowance for it. You, however, have your own, blunt manner of address and formality. I have never seen it as an offensive trait. It’s been a refreshing experience to put aside the expectations of court to just get to know who you are.” Her cheeks flushed unexpectedly, trying not to think about the familiar tone in her response. But if she truly thought of him as a friend, then it shouldn’t have been hard to be honest with him in that.
Right?
The question of her plans once he left was not expected, simply because he had never been a man who cared for small talk. For him, conversation mattered, and it meant that he cared about what she was going to do. Trying not to let her mind run away with it, she reeled in her imagination and focused back on the topic. ”Life will certainly not be boring with you gone. There is still Theodora’s wedding to Achilleas and the baby-- the expectation of me to assist with that. Then, who knows? Perhaps I will go back to Athenia for another visit.” She wasn’t exactly sure what her future would hold. ”The Circus changed so much, and so much is still unknown. I may just return home and refocus on things for a bit. I must confess that I am still a bit unsure of what the Gods have planned for me in this life.” Her shoulders lifted in a shrug, ”I miss my island.”
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Selene wanted to be a bit more insightful when it came to his question, but she just wasn’t as close the Dimitrous. Her sisters had always pulled her focus, always demanded her attention. She was always available for small talk and the like, but her investment had been drawn to obtaining a marriage that ended with her as Queen of Taengea. Never rude, the eldest was always good for polite conversation. But there hadn’t been a connection between the families. Instead, she did her duty and focused on what mattered.
The relief in knowing that his sister would make it easier did nothing to ease the ball of tension that seemed to be filling her belly. She wasn’t sure exactly what he was expecting from the encounter, and she was working hard not to think more of it than just wishing to not offend him. And yet, she was frustrated by her own wandering mind. She was expected to keep the Kotas family happy. She could hear her uncle’s voice in her mind, pushing her to try and do better. To push for more.
But that was not how she liked to act. And that hadn’t been her relationship with the Kotas family to push.
Her giggle may have reached her eyes, but her smile was bright either way. ”As a man, the expectations of refinement are less. Most women expect a bit of roughness from a man, so there is an allowance for it. You, however, have your own, blunt manner of address and formality. I have never seen it as an offensive trait. It’s been a refreshing experience to put aside the expectations of court to just get to know who you are.” Her cheeks flushed unexpectedly, trying not to think about the familiar tone in her response. But if she truly thought of him as a friend, then it shouldn’t have been hard to be honest with him in that.
Right?
The question of her plans once he left was not expected, simply because he had never been a man who cared for small talk. For him, conversation mattered, and it meant that he cared about what she was going to do. Trying not to let her mind run away with it, she reeled in her imagination and focused back on the topic. ”Life will certainly not be boring with you gone. There is still Theodora’s wedding to Achilleas and the baby-- the expectation of me to assist with that. Then, who knows? Perhaps I will go back to Athenia for another visit.” She wasn’t exactly sure what her future would hold. ”The Circus changed so much, and so much is still unknown. I may just return home and refocus on things for a bit. I must confess that I am still a bit unsure of what the Gods have planned for me in this life.” Her shoulders lifted in a shrug, ”I miss my island.”
Selene wanted to be a bit more insightful when it came to his question, but she just wasn’t as close the Dimitrous. Her sisters had always pulled her focus, always demanded her attention. She was always available for small talk and the like, but her investment had been drawn to obtaining a marriage that ended with her as Queen of Taengea. Never rude, the eldest was always good for polite conversation. But there hadn’t been a connection between the families. Instead, she did her duty and focused on what mattered.
The relief in knowing that his sister would make it easier did nothing to ease the ball of tension that seemed to be filling her belly. She wasn’t sure exactly what he was expecting from the encounter, and she was working hard not to think more of it than just wishing to not offend him. And yet, she was frustrated by her own wandering mind. She was expected to keep the Kotas family happy. She could hear her uncle’s voice in her mind, pushing her to try and do better. To push for more.
But that was not how she liked to act. And that hadn’t been her relationship with the Kotas family to push.
Her giggle may have reached her eyes, but her smile was bright either way. ”As a man, the expectations of refinement are less. Most women expect a bit of roughness from a man, so there is an allowance for it. You, however, have your own, blunt manner of address and formality. I have never seen it as an offensive trait. It’s been a refreshing experience to put aside the expectations of court to just get to know who you are.” Her cheeks flushed unexpectedly, trying not to think about the familiar tone in her response. But if she truly thought of him as a friend, then it shouldn’t have been hard to be honest with him in that.
Right?
The question of her plans once he left was not expected, simply because he had never been a man who cared for small talk. For him, conversation mattered, and it meant that he cared about what she was going to do. Trying not to let her mind run away with it, she reeled in her imagination and focused back on the topic. ”Life will certainly not be boring with you gone. There is still Theodora’s wedding to Achilleas and the baby-- the expectation of me to assist with that. Then, who knows? Perhaps I will go back to Athenia for another visit.” She wasn’t exactly sure what her future would hold. ”The Circus changed so much, and so much is still unknown. I may just return home and refocus on things for a bit. I must confess that I am still a bit unsure of what the Gods have planned for me in this life.” Her shoulders lifted in a shrug, ”I miss my island.”
Vangelis made a slight and sharp inhale that was close to a snort but not so clearly one that his mother would tell him off were she present. It was a noise he had perfected in his adolescence and one he could claim to be a huff.
"If men are encouraged to be less civilised, I must be more likeable amongst my peers than I had assumed." He offered in a dry and serious tone, but his words indicated a joke the likes of which he rarely told. It also indicated clearly that Vangelis - whilst not the kind of person to much care of the opinion others held of him - was at least aware that such opinions were held. It wasn't that he was an ignorant man or unknowing of the world around him, but that he was simply uninclined to pander and acquiesce to such assumptions of his character.
When his companion mentioned the missing of her home, it was the first time that Vangelis had nodded and made a noise of affirmation to show himself to be listening, as he looked out ahead of them.
"It's strange that simple rock and dirt can hold us, but I find myself missing Colchis also." He admitted to her with a quick glance around at her from the back of his horse. "No matter how much time I spend away from it, it still feels like home."
It was as he was saying this that Vangelis directing his steed around a divot that brought the two of them into close quarters once more, but as he pulled to steer his mount away again and offer a more respectable distance, there was a tearing noise that drew his attention down and his hands deftly managed the horse back in close.
The end hem of the Lady Selene's gowns had caught in the spoke of one of the buckles attaching Vangelis saddle beneath the girth of his ride. The metal had punched a hole in the silk and was hooked on, the shift away from them only tearing a larger hole, so that it now stood at an inch or two in length.
"Wait, hold." Vangelis instructed as he instinctively reached out to still Selene's reins as well as his own. The gesture was one of chivalry rather than a judgement on her skills as a rider and he didn't even consider the potential insult in implying she couldn't handle the animal herself.
Once the two of them were pulled close enough, Vangelis lifted his left foot up and away from their unfortunate connection, the toe of his boot braced on the hindquarters of his mount and then leaned forward and down towards the belly of the horse. Careful not to make a wrong move and fall on his own head, Vangelis supported his weight on the girth belt and reached across to take hold of Selene's ankle where the dress had become entangled.
Being careful not to touch her skin - he had always been told females were delicate about such things, and so he kept fabric between his own hand and her foot at all times - Vangelis was surprised to find he could fit his thumb and forefinger all the way around Selene's ankle where they then met one another on the opposing side. The woman was so confident and strong willed - at least in his mind - he had never considered the idea that she was dainty. Once able to move her foot out of the and assess the damage, Vangelis engaged his right thigh muscle, released the tack so that he had birth hands free, and kept his balance hanging from the side of the horse with only his legs. His big and sure fingers made quickly work of unlooping the caught fabric from the spoke of the buckle and with a flick of a wrist, the silks were free to dance in the breeze once more.
Engaging his centre of gravity, Vangelis brought himself back up to his seated position, dropped his leg and took up the reins once more. The entire thing had taken no more than a few moments but, for some reason, Vangelis felt slightly awkward.
"Apologies." He murmured, not entirely she what he was supposed to be penitent of.
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Vangelis made a slight and sharp inhale that was close to a snort but not so clearly one that his mother would tell him off were she present. It was a noise he had perfected in his adolescence and one he could claim to be a huff.
"If men are encouraged to be less civilised, I must be more likeable amongst my peers than I had assumed." He offered in a dry and serious tone, but his words indicated a joke the likes of which he rarely told. It also indicated clearly that Vangelis - whilst not the kind of person to much care of the opinion others held of him - was at least aware that such opinions were held. It wasn't that he was an ignorant man or unknowing of the world around him, but that he was simply uninclined to pander and acquiesce to such assumptions of his character.
When his companion mentioned the missing of her home, it was the first time that Vangelis had nodded and made a noise of affirmation to show himself to be listening, as he looked out ahead of them.
"It's strange that simple rock and dirt can hold us, but I find myself missing Colchis also." He admitted to her with a quick glance around at her from the back of his horse. "No matter how much time I spend away from it, it still feels like home."
It was as he was saying this that Vangelis directing his steed around a divot that brought the two of them into close quarters once more, but as he pulled to steer his mount away again and offer a more respectable distance, there was a tearing noise that drew his attention down and his hands deftly managed the horse back in close.
The end hem of the Lady Selene's gowns had caught in the spoke of one of the buckles attaching Vangelis saddle beneath the girth of his ride. The metal had punched a hole in the silk and was hooked on, the shift away from them only tearing a larger hole, so that it now stood at an inch or two in length.
"Wait, hold." Vangelis instructed as he instinctively reached out to still Selene's reins as well as his own. The gesture was one of chivalry rather than a judgement on her skills as a rider and he didn't even consider the potential insult in implying she couldn't handle the animal herself.
Once the two of them were pulled close enough, Vangelis lifted his left foot up and away from their unfortunate connection, the toe of his boot braced on the hindquarters of his mount and then leaned forward and down towards the belly of the horse. Careful not to make a wrong move and fall on his own head, Vangelis supported his weight on the girth belt and reached across to take hold of Selene's ankle where the dress had become entangled.
Being careful not to touch her skin - he had always been told females were delicate about such things, and so he kept fabric between his own hand and her foot at all times - Vangelis was surprised to find he could fit his thumb and forefinger all the way around Selene's ankle where they then met one another on the opposing side. The woman was so confident and strong willed - at least in his mind - he had never considered the idea that she was dainty. Once able to move her foot out of the and assess the damage, Vangelis engaged his right thigh muscle, released the tack so that he had birth hands free, and kept his balance hanging from the side of the horse with only his legs. His big and sure fingers made quickly work of unlooping the caught fabric from the spoke of the buckle and with a flick of a wrist, the silks were free to dance in the breeze once more.
Engaging his centre of gravity, Vangelis brought himself back up to his seated position, dropped his leg and took up the reins once more. The entire thing had taken no more than a few moments but, for some reason, Vangelis felt slightly awkward.
"Apologies." He murmured, not entirely she what he was supposed to be penitent of.
Vangelis made a slight and sharp inhale that was close to a snort but not so clearly one that his mother would tell him off were she present. It was a noise he had perfected in his adolescence and one he could claim to be a huff.
"If men are encouraged to be less civilised, I must be more likeable amongst my peers than I had assumed." He offered in a dry and serious tone, but his words indicated a joke the likes of which he rarely told. It also indicated clearly that Vangelis - whilst not the kind of person to much care of the opinion others held of him - was at least aware that such opinions were held. It wasn't that he was an ignorant man or unknowing of the world around him, but that he was simply uninclined to pander and acquiesce to such assumptions of his character.
When his companion mentioned the missing of her home, it was the first time that Vangelis had nodded and made a noise of affirmation to show himself to be listening, as he looked out ahead of them.
"It's strange that simple rock and dirt can hold us, but I find myself missing Colchis also." He admitted to her with a quick glance around at her from the back of his horse. "No matter how much time I spend away from it, it still feels like home."
It was as he was saying this that Vangelis directing his steed around a divot that brought the two of them into close quarters once more, but as he pulled to steer his mount away again and offer a more respectable distance, there was a tearing noise that drew his attention down and his hands deftly managed the horse back in close.
The end hem of the Lady Selene's gowns had caught in the spoke of one of the buckles attaching Vangelis saddle beneath the girth of his ride. The metal had punched a hole in the silk and was hooked on, the shift away from them only tearing a larger hole, so that it now stood at an inch or two in length.
"Wait, hold." Vangelis instructed as he instinctively reached out to still Selene's reins as well as his own. The gesture was one of chivalry rather than a judgement on her skills as a rider and he didn't even consider the potential insult in implying she couldn't handle the animal herself.
Once the two of them were pulled close enough, Vangelis lifted his left foot up and away from their unfortunate connection, the toe of his boot braced on the hindquarters of his mount and then leaned forward and down towards the belly of the horse. Careful not to make a wrong move and fall on his own head, Vangelis supported his weight on the girth belt and reached across to take hold of Selene's ankle where the dress had become entangled.
Being careful not to touch her skin - he had always been told females were delicate about such things, and so he kept fabric between his own hand and her foot at all times - Vangelis was surprised to find he could fit his thumb and forefinger all the way around Selene's ankle where they then met one another on the opposing side. The woman was so confident and strong willed - at least in his mind - he had never considered the idea that she was dainty. Once able to move her foot out of the and assess the damage, Vangelis engaged his right thigh muscle, released the tack so that he had birth hands free, and kept his balance hanging from the side of the horse with only his legs. His big and sure fingers made quickly work of unlooping the caught fabric from the spoke of the buckle and with a flick of a wrist, the silks were free to dance in the breeze once more.
Engaging his centre of gravity, Vangelis brought himself back up to his seated position, dropped his leg and took up the reins once more. The entire thing had taken no more than a few moments but, for some reason, Vangelis felt slightly awkward.
"Apologies." He murmured, not entirely she what he was supposed to be penitent of.
She couldn’t help but study his face a little more, enjoying the subtle hints that he had found her comment comical. Selene knew that he was different, that he kept his emotions in check. Which often made it hard to determine just how he was feeling, how he was taking a comment. The last thing she wished to do was offend him with her own sense of humor. But his little cues, the small brightness of his eyes and the slight upturn brought a smile to her face.
Maybe she wasn’t just imagining things.
Her eyes were alight with his comment about rocks and dirt, and she laughed outright. ”If it were just the rocks and dirt that kept us, we would feel utterly content on any soil we landed on.” Selene almost reach out to nudge him playfully, not realizing just how close he had brought himself with his comment until she could see the flecks of different colors in his eyes. There was a catch in her breath as she tried to gather her thoughts, to try and figure out what she had planned to say next.
There was no oddness in how long it took her to gather her thoughts, not when there was an obvious rip. Had she been speaking, the sound would have been muffled. But instead, it sounded far louder than it actually was. It was then that he ordered her to stop, that he reached into space he’d never entered before that she found her breath catching. It wasn’t the tear in her dress, as it was just a dress that could be repaired. It was the closeness of him, the commanding way in which he allowed himself to reach for the reigns of her horse to hold it steady.
She thought that he was going to pull her close, to breach the distance between them for an intimate moment. Selene wasn’t quite sure what to think, her mind suddenly empty as the smell of him invaded her senses, the manly combination of outdoors and leather and soap. She didn’t realize how much she had come to appreciate the smell of him until it overwhelmed her senses again. The time she’d spent with him in Colchis, getting to know him, hadn’t involved any thoughts of anything but friendship. And she’d found herself surrounded by him daily, which meant she had probably grown used to it. Now, having been without it for so long, it was a bit of a shock.
But instead of leaning into her, he leaned down.
Blinking, it took her a moment to realize that he was holding her horse close so that he could help untangle her dress from his saddle. Her cheeks blazed bright red as he carefully took her ankle, giving respect to proprietary to keep the gauzy material in between his skin and hers. But she could still feel the heat of his touch against her skin, still had a hard time catching her breath as he took his time to remove the cloth from the saddle. It felt like time stopped, and she couldn’t decide what his intentions were with the action. And then, the fabric was free and he let go of her. There was a part of her that wished to look down at her ankle, to see if there was a brand where his fingers had been. It still felt hot from the contact.
Ophelia stepped away for a moment, but then brushed her now exposed knee and thigh against his leg, pressing closer to his own horse. ”Nonsense.” She said softly, picking up the reigns again. Her eyes met his, ”It may have been far more tragic if you hadn’t.” Her voice felt a bit thick as she tried to gather her emotions. And then Ophelia shook her head and stepped back, putting distance between the two.
Breaking the spell.
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May 27, 2019 17:30:02 GMT
Posted In Ride With Me on May 27, 2019 17:30:02 GMT
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She couldn’t help but study his face a little more, enjoying the subtle hints that he had found her comment comical. Selene knew that he was different, that he kept his emotions in check. Which often made it hard to determine just how he was feeling, how he was taking a comment. The last thing she wished to do was offend him with her own sense of humor. But his little cues, the small brightness of his eyes and the slight upturn brought a smile to her face.
Maybe she wasn’t just imagining things.
Her eyes were alight with his comment about rocks and dirt, and she laughed outright. ”If it were just the rocks and dirt that kept us, we would feel utterly content on any soil we landed on.” Selene almost reach out to nudge him playfully, not realizing just how close he had brought himself with his comment until she could see the flecks of different colors in his eyes. There was a catch in her breath as she tried to gather her thoughts, to try and figure out what she had planned to say next.
There was no oddness in how long it took her to gather her thoughts, not when there was an obvious rip. Had she been speaking, the sound would have been muffled. But instead, it sounded far louder than it actually was. It was then that he ordered her to stop, that he reached into space he’d never entered before that she found her breath catching. It wasn’t the tear in her dress, as it was just a dress that could be repaired. It was the closeness of him, the commanding way in which he allowed himself to reach for the reigns of her horse to hold it steady.
She thought that he was going to pull her close, to breach the distance between them for an intimate moment. Selene wasn’t quite sure what to think, her mind suddenly empty as the smell of him invaded her senses, the manly combination of outdoors and leather and soap. She didn’t realize how much she had come to appreciate the smell of him until it overwhelmed her senses again. The time she’d spent with him in Colchis, getting to know him, hadn’t involved any thoughts of anything but friendship. And she’d found herself surrounded by him daily, which meant she had probably grown used to it. Now, having been without it for so long, it was a bit of a shock.
But instead of leaning into her, he leaned down.
Blinking, it took her a moment to realize that he was holding her horse close so that he could help untangle her dress from his saddle. Her cheeks blazed bright red as he carefully took her ankle, giving respect to proprietary to keep the gauzy material in between his skin and hers. But she could still feel the heat of his touch against her skin, still had a hard time catching her breath as he took his time to remove the cloth from the saddle. It felt like time stopped, and she couldn’t decide what his intentions were with the action. And then, the fabric was free and he let go of her. There was a part of her that wished to look down at her ankle, to see if there was a brand where his fingers had been. It still felt hot from the contact.
Ophelia stepped away for a moment, but then brushed her now exposed knee and thigh against his leg, pressing closer to his own horse. ”Nonsense.” She said softly, picking up the reigns again. Her eyes met his, ”It may have been far more tragic if you hadn’t.” Her voice felt a bit thick as she tried to gather her emotions. And then Ophelia shook her head and stepped back, putting distance between the two.
Breaking the spell.
She couldn’t help but study his face a little more, enjoying the subtle hints that he had found her comment comical. Selene knew that he was different, that he kept his emotions in check. Which often made it hard to determine just how he was feeling, how he was taking a comment. The last thing she wished to do was offend him with her own sense of humor. But his little cues, the small brightness of his eyes and the slight upturn brought a smile to her face.
Maybe she wasn’t just imagining things.
Her eyes were alight with his comment about rocks and dirt, and she laughed outright. ”If it were just the rocks and dirt that kept us, we would feel utterly content on any soil we landed on.” Selene almost reach out to nudge him playfully, not realizing just how close he had brought himself with his comment until she could see the flecks of different colors in his eyes. There was a catch in her breath as she tried to gather her thoughts, to try and figure out what she had planned to say next.
There was no oddness in how long it took her to gather her thoughts, not when there was an obvious rip. Had she been speaking, the sound would have been muffled. But instead, it sounded far louder than it actually was. It was then that he ordered her to stop, that he reached into space he’d never entered before that she found her breath catching. It wasn’t the tear in her dress, as it was just a dress that could be repaired. It was the closeness of him, the commanding way in which he allowed himself to reach for the reigns of her horse to hold it steady.
She thought that he was going to pull her close, to breach the distance between them for an intimate moment. Selene wasn’t quite sure what to think, her mind suddenly empty as the smell of him invaded her senses, the manly combination of outdoors and leather and soap. She didn’t realize how much she had come to appreciate the smell of him until it overwhelmed her senses again. The time she’d spent with him in Colchis, getting to know him, hadn’t involved any thoughts of anything but friendship. And she’d found herself surrounded by him daily, which meant she had probably grown used to it. Now, having been without it for so long, it was a bit of a shock.
But instead of leaning into her, he leaned down.
Blinking, it took her a moment to realize that he was holding her horse close so that he could help untangle her dress from his saddle. Her cheeks blazed bright red as he carefully took her ankle, giving respect to proprietary to keep the gauzy material in between his skin and hers. But she could still feel the heat of his touch against her skin, still had a hard time catching her breath as he took his time to remove the cloth from the saddle. It felt like time stopped, and she couldn’t decide what his intentions were with the action. And then, the fabric was free and he let go of her. There was a part of her that wished to look down at her ankle, to see if there was a brand where his fingers had been. It still felt hot from the contact.
Ophelia stepped away for a moment, but then brushed her now exposed knee and thigh against his leg, pressing closer to his own horse. ”Nonsense.” She said softly, picking up the reigns again. Her eyes met his, ”It may have been far more tragic if you hadn’t.” Her voice felt a bit thick as she tried to gather her emotions. And then Ophelia shook her head and stepped back, putting distance between the two.
Breaking the spell.
So Imeeya did fancy Lord Lazaros. Athanasia couldn't even remember the last time she had seen her cousin blush. She was just jesting about jealousy, trying to lighten Imeeya's mood. The princess wasn't interested in the commander at all. Her teasing did not have the desired effect. Her cousin was angry at her for some reason and she had no idea why. Maybe Lord Lazaros had spoken of nobody but Athanasia when he had walked Imeeya home and she really was jealous? She couldn't think of any other man who could be the 'him' that Imeeya referred to.
This was all about her? Athanasia frowned. She was glad her borrowed mare was a docile one. It would have been difficult to control a lively horse while worrying what she had done to irritate her cousin. They'd had their fair share of arguments over the years, but they were the best of friends and had always made up. And they could do so again, if only she knew the reason for Imeeya's animosity. She thought back on the night of the open market. They had both danced, but not with any particular partner. She had not punched anybody or done anything that wasn't perfectly proper. Looking over at Imeeya, she shook her head. “I don't understand.”
The man you kissed at the market. Her eyes widened and her hand jerked upon the reins. Rose sidestepped, snorting, and it took the princess a few moments to calm the horse. Lord Silanos. Athanasia had put him out of her mind after that conversation with Vang, but now the memories of that unexpected kiss flooded her thoughts. She turned to look at her brother and Lady Selene, still off in the distance, so that Imeeya wouldn't see her blush. Now she was glad that they were too far away to hear what the two girls spoke about.
“You were spying on me?” she hissed. Bringing her gaze back to her cousin, Athanasia's hazel eyes appeared gray with indignation, like the waves during a tempestuous storm at sea. Rose, as if sensing her rider's anxiety, tossed her head and snorted again. “Well, you didn't see what you thought you did. I didn't kiss him. He kissed me and then he ran off and I have absolutely idea why he did either. It made no sense then and it still doesn't. It was so confusing that I'm trying my best to forget it. And until you brought it back up, I was succeeding.”
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Aug 23, 2019 19:04:20 GMT
Posted In Ride With Me on Aug 23, 2019 19:04:20 GMT
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So Imeeya did fancy Lord Lazaros. Athanasia couldn't even remember the last time she had seen her cousin blush. She was just jesting about jealousy, trying to lighten Imeeya's mood. The princess wasn't interested in the commander at all. Her teasing did not have the desired effect. Her cousin was angry at her for some reason and she had no idea why. Maybe Lord Lazaros had spoken of nobody but Athanasia when he had walked Imeeya home and she really was jealous? She couldn't think of any other man who could be the 'him' that Imeeya referred to.
This was all about her? Athanasia frowned. She was glad her borrowed mare was a docile one. It would have been difficult to control a lively horse while worrying what she had done to irritate her cousin. They'd had their fair share of arguments over the years, but they were the best of friends and had always made up. And they could do so again, if only she knew the reason for Imeeya's animosity. She thought back on the night of the open market. They had both danced, but not with any particular partner. She had not punched anybody or done anything that wasn't perfectly proper. Looking over at Imeeya, she shook her head. “I don't understand.”
The man you kissed at the market. Her eyes widened and her hand jerked upon the reins. Rose sidestepped, snorting, and it took the princess a few moments to calm the horse. Lord Silanos. Athanasia had put him out of her mind after that conversation with Vang, but now the memories of that unexpected kiss flooded her thoughts. She turned to look at her brother and Lady Selene, still off in the distance, so that Imeeya wouldn't see her blush. Now she was glad that they were too far away to hear what the two girls spoke about.
“You were spying on me?” she hissed. Bringing her gaze back to her cousin, Athanasia's hazel eyes appeared gray with indignation, like the waves during a tempestuous storm at sea. Rose, as if sensing her rider's anxiety, tossed her head and snorted again. “Well, you didn't see what you thought you did. I didn't kiss him. He kissed me and then he ran off and I have absolutely idea why he did either. It made no sense then and it still doesn't. It was so confusing that I'm trying my best to forget it. And until you brought it back up, I was succeeding.”
So Imeeya did fancy Lord Lazaros. Athanasia couldn't even remember the last time she had seen her cousin blush. She was just jesting about jealousy, trying to lighten Imeeya's mood. The princess wasn't interested in the commander at all. Her teasing did not have the desired effect. Her cousin was angry at her for some reason and she had no idea why. Maybe Lord Lazaros had spoken of nobody but Athanasia when he had walked Imeeya home and she really was jealous? She couldn't think of any other man who could be the 'him' that Imeeya referred to.
This was all about her? Athanasia frowned. She was glad her borrowed mare was a docile one. It would have been difficult to control a lively horse while worrying what she had done to irritate her cousin. They'd had their fair share of arguments over the years, but they were the best of friends and had always made up. And they could do so again, if only she knew the reason for Imeeya's animosity. She thought back on the night of the open market. They had both danced, but not with any particular partner. She had not punched anybody or done anything that wasn't perfectly proper. Looking over at Imeeya, she shook her head. “I don't understand.”
The man you kissed at the market. Her eyes widened and her hand jerked upon the reins. Rose sidestepped, snorting, and it took the princess a few moments to calm the horse. Lord Silanos. Athanasia had put him out of her mind after that conversation with Vang, but now the memories of that unexpected kiss flooded her thoughts. She turned to look at her brother and Lady Selene, still off in the distance, so that Imeeya wouldn't see her blush. Now she was glad that they were too far away to hear what the two girls spoke about.
“You were spying on me?” she hissed. Bringing her gaze back to her cousin, Athanasia's hazel eyes appeared gray with indignation, like the waves during a tempestuous storm at sea. Rose, as if sensing her rider's anxiety, tossed her head and snorted again. “Well, you didn't see what you thought you did. I didn't kiss him. He kissed me and then he ran off and I have absolutely idea why he did either. It made no sense then and it still doesn't. It was so confusing that I'm trying my best to forget it. And until you brought it back up, I was succeeding.”