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Having been staying with the Leventi's for almost two weeks now, Zenais was still finding her footing around the area and in her new role as a lady's maid. She's spent the last ten years as a tavern performer, and her memories of lady's maids who attended to her back when she was still part of her noble family in Lyncaea were hazy at best. Zenais only briefly remembered that the lady's maid seemed to always be on call regardless of what time she needed them, and that they were to help her dress, but outside of that, the young brunette was quite clueless.
So her first week of being in residence involved a lot of shadowing around the current lady's maids attending to Lady Eirini, watching and doing as she was told. Unlike her job as a tavern performer, which involved more performing and less on hands work, the girl has had to adjust herself to a whole new different lifestyle. Her first day waking up at the crack of dawn had been difficult, and she had felt like a sack of lead, but it had grown progressively easier after.
This week however, she had been placed on what had been called 'menial chores'. According to some of the maids, every newcomer to the staff of the Leventi household would have to go through it, as a form of 'training' of sorts. As Zenais was told, she would have to learn how to attend to anything her mistress wanted, and as Eirini had expressedly mentioned that Zenais was to be trained enough that she would one day accompany Eirini herself to noble functions and royal court sessions. And being able to attend to 'anything her mistress wanted', meant that Zenais would have to be a mistress of all trades.
That evening found herself polishing the display vases in the foyer of the main Leventi household, when she heard a rap on the main door. With it being the break time for many servants, Zenais looked around, to find no usual footmen available to attend to the door. Was she supposed to? Unlearned yet in the protocol of the house, the girl worried the bottom of her lip, hesitating for a moment longer then necessary, before deciding to heck with it.
Dropping the rag she had been using, the girl straightened out the simple brown frock she was wearing, before heading for the door, opening it with a slightly hesitant smile. "Welcome to the Leventi residence, may I know who is it you seek?"
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Jul 1, 2019 18:04:27 GMT
Posted In Take Me Home on Jul 1, 2019 18:04:27 GMT
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Having been staying with the Leventi's for almost two weeks now, Zenais was still finding her footing around the area and in her new role as a lady's maid. She's spent the last ten years as a tavern performer, and her memories of lady's maids who attended to her back when she was still part of her noble family in Lyncaea were hazy at best. Zenais only briefly remembered that the lady's maid seemed to always be on call regardless of what time she needed them, and that they were to help her dress, but outside of that, the young brunette was quite clueless.
So her first week of being in residence involved a lot of shadowing around the current lady's maids attending to Lady Eirini, watching and doing as she was told. Unlike her job as a tavern performer, which involved more performing and less on hands work, the girl has had to adjust herself to a whole new different lifestyle. Her first day waking up at the crack of dawn had been difficult, and she had felt like a sack of lead, but it had grown progressively easier after.
This week however, she had been placed on what had been called 'menial chores'. According to some of the maids, every newcomer to the staff of the Leventi household would have to go through it, as a form of 'training' of sorts. As Zenais was told, she would have to learn how to attend to anything her mistress wanted, and as Eirini had expressedly mentioned that Zenais was to be trained enough that she would one day accompany Eirini herself to noble functions and royal court sessions. And being able to attend to 'anything her mistress wanted', meant that Zenais would have to be a mistress of all trades.
That evening found herself polishing the display vases in the foyer of the main Leventi household, when she heard a rap on the main door. With it being the break time for many servants, Zenais looked around, to find no usual footmen available to attend to the door. Was she supposed to? Unlearned yet in the protocol of the house, the girl worried the bottom of her lip, hesitating for a moment longer then necessary, before deciding to heck with it.
Dropping the rag she had been using, the girl straightened out the simple brown frock she was wearing, before heading for the door, opening it with a slightly hesitant smile. "Welcome to the Leventi residence, may I know who is it you seek?"
Having been staying with the Leventi's for almost two weeks now, Zenais was still finding her footing around the area and in her new role as a lady's maid. She's spent the last ten years as a tavern performer, and her memories of lady's maids who attended to her back when she was still part of her noble family in Lyncaea were hazy at best. Zenais only briefly remembered that the lady's maid seemed to always be on call regardless of what time she needed them, and that they were to help her dress, but outside of that, the young brunette was quite clueless.
So her first week of being in residence involved a lot of shadowing around the current lady's maids attending to Lady Eirini, watching and doing as she was told. Unlike her job as a tavern performer, which involved more performing and less on hands work, the girl has had to adjust herself to a whole new different lifestyle. Her first day waking up at the crack of dawn had been difficult, and she had felt like a sack of lead, but it had grown progressively easier after.
This week however, she had been placed on what had been called 'menial chores'. According to some of the maids, every newcomer to the staff of the Leventi household would have to go through it, as a form of 'training' of sorts. As Zenais was told, she would have to learn how to attend to anything her mistress wanted, and as Eirini had expressedly mentioned that Zenais was to be trained enough that she would one day accompany Eirini herself to noble functions and royal court sessions. And being able to attend to 'anything her mistress wanted', meant that Zenais would have to be a mistress of all trades.
That evening found herself polishing the display vases in the foyer of the main Leventi household, when she heard a rap on the main door. With it being the break time for many servants, Zenais looked around, to find no usual footmen available to attend to the door. Was she supposed to? Unlearned yet in the protocol of the house, the girl worried the bottom of her lip, hesitating for a moment longer then necessary, before deciding to heck with it.
Dropping the rag she had been using, the girl straightened out the simple brown frock she was wearing, before heading for the door, opening it with a slightly hesitant smile. "Welcome to the Leventi residence, may I know who is it you seek?"
Whatever sight Alexios has expected to greet him at the Leventi Manor when the door opened it certainly wasn't ...
A face he remembered from a tavern. A recruiting jaunt quickly forgotten. A voice that could make even a man of his vast and world-ranging experience stop to take notice. For a long moment all he could do was stare, dumbly, blue eyes narrowing in an attempt to remember the name and then it came to him like a thunderbolt. "Zenais, isn't it?" an accent distinctly Taengean but enriched from a decade spent abroad spoke the syllables as supple and gold on the tongue as honey. The officer cast a wide, triumphant smile. "What are you doing here of all places?" His gaze swept over her from head to foot, thorough as a lover's caress til it happened to notice the rag on the floor by her feet. "I could hazard a guess and gods know Lord Fotis and Lady Eirini have an eye for only the best in all things, including their household, but this is the last place in Vasiliadon I'd have expected to run into you."
He had abandoned his usual armor in favor of taking in a pleasant, warm day dressed in a rich, porphyry purple tunic with an open front to bare his muscular chest, cinched around his waist in some semblance of modesty and terminating midway down athletic thighs. His feet and calves were girded in leather boots and he cut every inch the embodiment of Ares, the god his lot in life served best.
Slowly, he entered the cool, shaded foyer, standing aside so the unexpected doorkeeper could close the portal behind. Alexios made another survey, marking that Zenais' uncommon beauty had in no way faded. Without diverting his attention anywhere but fast upon her, he nodded down the hallway that led to the family's quarters. "I thought I'd call on the lord and lady but who am I put mere business before pleasure? You make a welcome surprise for a weary soldier on furlough from Judea. And it's quite a walk from the tavern to this manor. Fortunately for us both, I happen to have plenty of free time on my hands and, as always, boundless curiosity when it comes to you, Zenais."
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Jul 1, 2019 18:04:57 GMT
Posted In Take Me Home on Jul 1, 2019 18:04:57 GMT
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Whatever sight Alexios has expected to greet him at the Leventi Manor when the door opened it certainly wasn't ...
A face he remembered from a tavern. A recruiting jaunt quickly forgotten. A voice that could make even a man of his vast and world-ranging experience stop to take notice. For a long moment all he could do was stare, dumbly, blue eyes narrowing in an attempt to remember the name and then it came to him like a thunderbolt. "Zenais, isn't it?" an accent distinctly Taengean but enriched from a decade spent abroad spoke the syllables as supple and gold on the tongue as honey. The officer cast a wide, triumphant smile. "What are you doing here of all places?" His gaze swept over her from head to foot, thorough as a lover's caress til it happened to notice the rag on the floor by her feet. "I could hazard a guess and gods know Lord Fotis and Lady Eirini have an eye for only the best in all things, including their household, but this is the last place in Vasiliadon I'd have expected to run into you."
He had abandoned his usual armor in favor of taking in a pleasant, warm day dressed in a rich, porphyry purple tunic with an open front to bare his muscular chest, cinched around his waist in some semblance of modesty and terminating midway down athletic thighs. His feet and calves were girded in leather boots and he cut every inch the embodiment of Ares, the god his lot in life served best.
Slowly, he entered the cool, shaded foyer, standing aside so the unexpected doorkeeper could close the portal behind. Alexios made another survey, marking that Zenais' uncommon beauty had in no way faded. Without diverting his attention anywhere but fast upon her, he nodded down the hallway that led to the family's quarters. "I thought I'd call on the lord and lady but who am I put mere business before pleasure? You make a welcome surprise for a weary soldier on furlough from Judea. And it's quite a walk from the tavern to this manor. Fortunately for us both, I happen to have plenty of free time on my hands and, as always, boundless curiosity when it comes to you, Zenais."
Whatever sight Alexios has expected to greet him at the Leventi Manor when the door opened it certainly wasn't ...
A face he remembered from a tavern. A recruiting jaunt quickly forgotten. A voice that could make even a man of his vast and world-ranging experience stop to take notice. For a long moment all he could do was stare, dumbly, blue eyes narrowing in an attempt to remember the name and then it came to him like a thunderbolt. "Zenais, isn't it?" an accent distinctly Taengean but enriched from a decade spent abroad spoke the syllables as supple and gold on the tongue as honey. The officer cast a wide, triumphant smile. "What are you doing here of all places?" His gaze swept over her from head to foot, thorough as a lover's caress til it happened to notice the rag on the floor by her feet. "I could hazard a guess and gods know Lord Fotis and Lady Eirini have an eye for only the best in all things, including their household, but this is the last place in Vasiliadon I'd have expected to run into you."
He had abandoned his usual armor in favor of taking in a pleasant, warm day dressed in a rich, porphyry purple tunic with an open front to bare his muscular chest, cinched around his waist in some semblance of modesty and terminating midway down athletic thighs. His feet and calves were girded in leather boots and he cut every inch the embodiment of Ares, the god his lot in life served best.
Slowly, he entered the cool, shaded foyer, standing aside so the unexpected doorkeeper could close the portal behind. Alexios made another survey, marking that Zenais' uncommon beauty had in no way faded. Without diverting his attention anywhere but fast upon her, he nodded down the hallway that led to the family's quarters. "I thought I'd call on the lord and lady but who am I put mere business before pleasure? You make a welcome surprise for a weary soldier on furlough from Judea. And it's quite a walk from the tavern to this manor. Fortunately for us both, I happen to have plenty of free time on my hands and, as always, boundless curiosity when it comes to you, Zenais."
The man knew her?
Obviously, if he could call her by name, and that was the first words out of his mouth as she opened the d0ors to admit him. Much to Zenais's horror though, she in turn, seemed to not be able to recall his name, nor his face. Of course, she had worked in the tavern for close to a decade before Lady Eirini came to take her off, and had met many men and women alike in her time there, to expect her to remember everyone she had met in her tenure there would be impossible.
But to have it thrown in her face was still somewhat embarassing, and Zenais had to wrack her brain as she gave him an uncertain smile. He was definitely from the tavern, likely a customer who had wandered in one night while she had been performing, for his accent was familiar, even if his face was not. The charming words in which he used to compliment her in a roundabout way made Zenais flush, as she bowed her head down and stepped back to allow his entrance.
The purple he wore matched well with the interiors of the Leventi manor, and judging from the quality of his tunic, he was no simple acquaintence, yet he did not come off as a noble or royal house member. A wealthy merchant, perhaps?
"I have recently been hired by Lady Eirini to attend to her as a lady's maid, my lord." the brunette greeted with a small curtsy, ensuring to keep her blue irises downcast, for it was disrespectful to look at a man of higher status in the eye unless she was an equal or better. While Zenais did not know exactly who he was, she always erred on the side of caution.
Closing the door behind her as she entered, the girl felt his eyes on her, and couldn't help the anxious reaction of her biting her bottom lip as he spoke to her again. Ah, a soldier. But a soldier with such fine attire? That was a rare sight indeed. Perhaps he was of great service to the crown? He seemed to know her well, and.... ah, one of the customers she had conversed with! A brief, hazy memory of sharing a drink after one of her performances came to mind, but the name escaped her.
Feeling like a liar should she continue the farce, Zenais finally spoke up in her small voice. "I... I am glad I am a welcome surprise, as you put it, my lord. However, I must confess, I... have misplaced a name in which I could call you by." She hesitated before glancing up at him, as if worried she had somehow offended him.
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Jul 1, 2019 18:05:21 GMT
Posted In Take Me Home on Jul 1, 2019 18:05:21 GMT
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The man knew her?
Obviously, if he could call her by name, and that was the first words out of his mouth as she opened the d0ors to admit him. Much to Zenais's horror though, she in turn, seemed to not be able to recall his name, nor his face. Of course, she had worked in the tavern for close to a decade before Lady Eirini came to take her off, and had met many men and women alike in her time there, to expect her to remember everyone she had met in her tenure there would be impossible.
But to have it thrown in her face was still somewhat embarassing, and Zenais had to wrack her brain as she gave him an uncertain smile. He was definitely from the tavern, likely a customer who had wandered in one night while she had been performing, for his accent was familiar, even if his face was not. The charming words in which he used to compliment her in a roundabout way made Zenais flush, as she bowed her head down and stepped back to allow his entrance.
The purple he wore matched well with the interiors of the Leventi manor, and judging from the quality of his tunic, he was no simple acquaintence, yet he did not come off as a noble or royal house member. A wealthy merchant, perhaps?
"I have recently been hired by Lady Eirini to attend to her as a lady's maid, my lord." the brunette greeted with a small curtsy, ensuring to keep her blue irises downcast, for it was disrespectful to look at a man of higher status in the eye unless she was an equal or better. While Zenais did not know exactly who he was, she always erred on the side of caution.
Closing the door behind her as she entered, the girl felt his eyes on her, and couldn't help the anxious reaction of her biting her bottom lip as he spoke to her again. Ah, a soldier. But a soldier with such fine attire? That was a rare sight indeed. Perhaps he was of great service to the crown? He seemed to know her well, and.... ah, one of the customers she had conversed with! A brief, hazy memory of sharing a drink after one of her performances came to mind, but the name escaped her.
Feeling like a liar should she continue the farce, Zenais finally spoke up in her small voice. "I... I am glad I am a welcome surprise, as you put it, my lord. However, I must confess, I... have misplaced a name in which I could call you by." She hesitated before glancing up at him, as if worried she had somehow offended him.
The man knew her?
Obviously, if he could call her by name, and that was the first words out of his mouth as she opened the d0ors to admit him. Much to Zenais's horror though, she in turn, seemed to not be able to recall his name, nor his face. Of course, she had worked in the tavern for close to a decade before Lady Eirini came to take her off, and had met many men and women alike in her time there, to expect her to remember everyone she had met in her tenure there would be impossible.
But to have it thrown in her face was still somewhat embarassing, and Zenais had to wrack her brain as she gave him an uncertain smile. He was definitely from the tavern, likely a customer who had wandered in one night while she had been performing, for his accent was familiar, even if his face was not. The charming words in which he used to compliment her in a roundabout way made Zenais flush, as she bowed her head down and stepped back to allow his entrance.
The purple he wore matched well with the interiors of the Leventi manor, and judging from the quality of his tunic, he was no simple acquaintence, yet he did not come off as a noble or royal house member. A wealthy merchant, perhaps?
"I have recently been hired by Lady Eirini to attend to her as a lady's maid, my lord." the brunette greeted with a small curtsy, ensuring to keep her blue irises downcast, for it was disrespectful to look at a man of higher status in the eye unless she was an equal or better. While Zenais did not know exactly who he was, she always erred on the side of caution.
Closing the door behind her as she entered, the girl felt his eyes on her, and couldn't help the anxious reaction of her biting her bottom lip as he spoke to her again. Ah, a soldier. But a soldier with such fine attire? That was a rare sight indeed. Perhaps he was of great service to the crown? He seemed to know her well, and.... ah, one of the customers she had conversed with! A brief, hazy memory of sharing a drink after one of her performances came to mind, but the name escaped her.
Feeling like a liar should she continue the farce, Zenais finally spoke up in her small voice. "I... I am glad I am a welcome surprise, as you put it, my lord. However, I must confess, I... have misplaced a name in which I could call you by." She hesitated before glancing up at him, as if worried she had somehow offended him.
An opportunist to his eye teeth, forced to it by the circumstances he'd been raised in and the necessities of life waged in constant combat either against an enemy that wanted to kill him on foreign fields or one at home that disdained him for aspiring to a better life Alexios nonetheless wasn't immune to the occasional moral dilemma. He was not heartless or cruel, and the naivete and, yes, he would have said in that moment the innocence Zenais displayed struck a cord. The blush on her cheeks suited her, accentuated her feminine attributes and made them more sultry than she seemed to know.
"I'm no lord," he replied, amusement causing his words to waver slightly and glinting in eyes that would not leave her even if the manor around them suddenly burst into flame. "Lady Eirini, though, is quite fortunate to have discovered you." In the back of his mind the commander resolved to talk to Rini about her new maid. He didn't doubt for one second that the same potential he spied in the obeisant young woman had helped earn her entrance into this house. Gods above and below, those qualities could take her anywhere her heart may have desired.
The first imprisonment of Zenais' lower lip pillowed against white teeth he'd been able, reluctantly, to ignore but the second? That would not do. Bold as brass, an arm raised and a thumb gently rolled over the supple flesh, bidding it free from the distracting mannerism. And if her doe eyes raised to catch his expression, it was one of a fond smile and not the slightest put out at not being recognized. Alexios grinned from ear to ear, the margins of a square jaw suppressing laughter. "There's no reason why you should remember me. I don't even know that I gave you my name. I'm Alexios, Commander of the Taengean Army in Judea but not a noble. Not yet. One day I will be," he spoke it like an oath, as if the words alone could will the elevation into existence. "But for now, it's Alexios. Is the Lady of the House at home? I hope not. That'd make it easier for you to show me to her parlor where I recall there being some very good wine that would help us catch up further," the cad mused, starting to lead the way he knew well. "Very soft and sturdy furniture in there, too."
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Jul 1, 2019 18:05:45 GMT
Posted In Take Me Home on Jul 1, 2019 18:05:45 GMT
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An opportunist to his eye teeth, forced to it by the circumstances he'd been raised in and the necessities of life waged in constant combat either against an enemy that wanted to kill him on foreign fields or one at home that disdained him for aspiring to a better life Alexios nonetheless wasn't immune to the occasional moral dilemma. He was not heartless or cruel, and the naivete and, yes, he would have said in that moment the innocence Zenais displayed struck a cord. The blush on her cheeks suited her, accentuated her feminine attributes and made them more sultry than she seemed to know.
"I'm no lord," he replied, amusement causing his words to waver slightly and glinting in eyes that would not leave her even if the manor around them suddenly burst into flame. "Lady Eirini, though, is quite fortunate to have discovered you." In the back of his mind the commander resolved to talk to Rini about her new maid. He didn't doubt for one second that the same potential he spied in the obeisant young woman had helped earn her entrance into this house. Gods above and below, those qualities could take her anywhere her heart may have desired.
The first imprisonment of Zenais' lower lip pillowed against white teeth he'd been able, reluctantly, to ignore but the second? That would not do. Bold as brass, an arm raised and a thumb gently rolled over the supple flesh, bidding it free from the distracting mannerism. And if her doe eyes raised to catch his expression, it was one of a fond smile and not the slightest put out at not being recognized. Alexios grinned from ear to ear, the margins of a square jaw suppressing laughter. "There's no reason why you should remember me. I don't even know that I gave you my name. I'm Alexios, Commander of the Taengean Army in Judea but not a noble. Not yet. One day I will be," he spoke it like an oath, as if the words alone could will the elevation into existence. "But for now, it's Alexios. Is the Lady of the House at home? I hope not. That'd make it easier for you to show me to her parlor where I recall there being some very good wine that would help us catch up further," the cad mused, starting to lead the way he knew well. "Very soft and sturdy furniture in there, too."
An opportunist to his eye teeth, forced to it by the circumstances he'd been raised in and the necessities of life waged in constant combat either against an enemy that wanted to kill him on foreign fields or one at home that disdained him for aspiring to a better life Alexios nonetheless wasn't immune to the occasional moral dilemma. He was not heartless or cruel, and the naivete and, yes, he would have said in that moment the innocence Zenais displayed struck a cord. The blush on her cheeks suited her, accentuated her feminine attributes and made them more sultry than she seemed to know.
"I'm no lord," he replied, amusement causing his words to waver slightly and glinting in eyes that would not leave her even if the manor around them suddenly burst into flame. "Lady Eirini, though, is quite fortunate to have discovered you." In the back of his mind the commander resolved to talk to Rini about her new maid. He didn't doubt for one second that the same potential he spied in the obeisant young woman had helped earn her entrance into this house. Gods above and below, those qualities could take her anywhere her heart may have desired.
The first imprisonment of Zenais' lower lip pillowed against white teeth he'd been able, reluctantly, to ignore but the second? That would not do. Bold as brass, an arm raised and a thumb gently rolled over the supple flesh, bidding it free from the distracting mannerism. And if her doe eyes raised to catch his expression, it was one of a fond smile and not the slightest put out at not being recognized. Alexios grinned from ear to ear, the margins of a square jaw suppressing laughter. "There's no reason why you should remember me. I don't even know that I gave you my name. I'm Alexios, Commander of the Taengean Army in Judea but not a noble. Not yet. One day I will be," he spoke it like an oath, as if the words alone could will the elevation into existence. "But for now, it's Alexios. Is the Lady of the House at home? I hope not. That'd make it easier for you to show me to her parlor where I recall there being some very good wine that would help us catch up further," the cad mused, starting to lead the way he knew well. "Very soft and sturdy furniture in there, too."
You would think after many years of working with the tavern, Zenais would've been used to the men's attentions being slathered on her. But the truth was, Zenais had spent years trying to avoid attention, equating it with the greater possibility of being discovered by the one man she did not want to meet. The man who had given her his heart, who had taken hers in return, but also the same one who Zenais had placed her family above his heart, and perhaps made a very big enemy out of him in return. What would happen if they ever crossed paths again, Zenais did not want to know, but Eirini had taught her in the brief conversations they had in the carriage ride, that she could not continue living in the past, neither should she allow it to control her future.
Nothing has happened for the past ten years... she should be safe now, should she not?
An apology flew out of her lips when he mentioned he was no lord, a mistake that Zenais internally cursed herself for making. But how could he not be, when he held himself in such a stately, dignified manner? It was as if he lived a part, even if he was not the part, and Zenais found it harder and harder to keep her gaze away from him. The fact was solidifed even further when he mentioned later, how confident he was that one day, he would be a noble. As if that was all he needed, conviction, confidence, and it would be.
The kind of confidence Zenais had long snuffed out of her, when she was chased out of her home Kingdom.
Of course, he was no help, when he placed his thumb across her worrying her bottom lip. A shocked gasp escaped her lips, blue eyes darting upwards in surprise at his bold move. What had she said? The maids had said to protect herself, for she now represented the lady she served, and the lady she served was not just any random lady from a noble house, but the wife and Lady of the Leventi Dynasteia.
Gulping to calm her nerves as he spoke, she willed herself to not move, but instead waited for his hands to drop away, before taking a step back. "Sir Alexios." Zenais wondered at how she managed to keep her voice even when her body trembled within, from the sheer presence of the male before her. Had anyone else managed to illicit such response from her before? A perfect mixture of fear, awe, and a tad bit of curiosity. "I will check if Lady Eirini is available to meet you. In the mean time, please, let me lead you to the waiting room."
Presenting the picture of a dutiful servant, it was obvious that Zenais was no normal trained maid however. Raised as the daughter of a noblewomen, Zenais's words and movements were more refined then your regular maid, and it was likely the reason why Eirini had picked her to serve the lady herself, for she worked as a representation of the Lady without much work, and only her mind was to be improved upon, and its quickness in decision making.
Yet much to Zenais's surprise, it was Alexios who led her, as if he knew the place too well. Caught off guard, the brunette gaped at the hall he started down for a brief moment, before she quickly ran a few steps to catch up, just in time to catch his last comment which brought yet another flush to her cheeks. Gods, had any other male managed to make her blush as much as he had? Yiannis had been different, for Zenais had been actively trying on his part, if only for his gold. This guy... what was he trying to do?
"D-Do you want some wine then, Sir Alexios? I shall go and fetch some. And Lady Eirini-" she paused when a maid walked past them, and Zenais softly asked, only to receive a negative answer, which she quickly conveyed to the returning Commander. "My apologies, Sir Alexios. Lady Eirini seems to be otherwise indisposed at the moment. Perhaps you would like to leave a message, and I shall inform her of your visit at a later time?"
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Jul 1, 2019 18:06:08 GMT
Posted In Take Me Home on Jul 1, 2019 18:06:08 GMT
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You would think after many years of working with the tavern, Zenais would've been used to the men's attentions being slathered on her. But the truth was, Zenais had spent years trying to avoid attention, equating it with the greater possibility of being discovered by the one man she did not want to meet. The man who had given her his heart, who had taken hers in return, but also the same one who Zenais had placed her family above his heart, and perhaps made a very big enemy out of him in return. What would happen if they ever crossed paths again, Zenais did not want to know, but Eirini had taught her in the brief conversations they had in the carriage ride, that she could not continue living in the past, neither should she allow it to control her future.
Nothing has happened for the past ten years... she should be safe now, should she not?
An apology flew out of her lips when he mentioned he was no lord, a mistake that Zenais internally cursed herself for making. But how could he not be, when he held himself in such a stately, dignified manner? It was as if he lived a part, even if he was not the part, and Zenais found it harder and harder to keep her gaze away from him. The fact was solidifed even further when he mentioned later, how confident he was that one day, he would be a noble. As if that was all he needed, conviction, confidence, and it would be.
The kind of confidence Zenais had long snuffed out of her, when she was chased out of her home Kingdom.
Of course, he was no help, when he placed his thumb across her worrying her bottom lip. A shocked gasp escaped her lips, blue eyes darting upwards in surprise at his bold move. What had she said? The maids had said to protect herself, for she now represented the lady she served, and the lady she served was not just any random lady from a noble house, but the wife and Lady of the Leventi Dynasteia.
Gulping to calm her nerves as he spoke, she willed herself to not move, but instead waited for his hands to drop away, before taking a step back. "Sir Alexios." Zenais wondered at how she managed to keep her voice even when her body trembled within, from the sheer presence of the male before her. Had anyone else managed to illicit such response from her before? A perfect mixture of fear, awe, and a tad bit of curiosity. "I will check if Lady Eirini is available to meet you. In the mean time, please, let me lead you to the waiting room."
Presenting the picture of a dutiful servant, it was obvious that Zenais was no normal trained maid however. Raised as the daughter of a noblewomen, Zenais's words and movements were more refined then your regular maid, and it was likely the reason why Eirini had picked her to serve the lady herself, for she worked as a representation of the Lady without much work, and only her mind was to be improved upon, and its quickness in decision making.
Yet much to Zenais's surprise, it was Alexios who led her, as if he knew the place too well. Caught off guard, the brunette gaped at the hall he started down for a brief moment, before she quickly ran a few steps to catch up, just in time to catch his last comment which brought yet another flush to her cheeks. Gods, had any other male managed to make her blush as much as he had? Yiannis had been different, for Zenais had been actively trying on his part, if only for his gold. This guy... what was he trying to do?
"D-Do you want some wine then, Sir Alexios? I shall go and fetch some. And Lady Eirini-" she paused when a maid walked past them, and Zenais softly asked, only to receive a negative answer, which she quickly conveyed to the returning Commander. "My apologies, Sir Alexios. Lady Eirini seems to be otherwise indisposed at the moment. Perhaps you would like to leave a message, and I shall inform her of your visit at a later time?"
You would think after many years of working with the tavern, Zenais would've been used to the men's attentions being slathered on her. But the truth was, Zenais had spent years trying to avoid attention, equating it with the greater possibility of being discovered by the one man she did not want to meet. The man who had given her his heart, who had taken hers in return, but also the same one who Zenais had placed her family above his heart, and perhaps made a very big enemy out of him in return. What would happen if they ever crossed paths again, Zenais did not want to know, but Eirini had taught her in the brief conversations they had in the carriage ride, that she could not continue living in the past, neither should she allow it to control her future.
Nothing has happened for the past ten years... she should be safe now, should she not?
An apology flew out of her lips when he mentioned he was no lord, a mistake that Zenais internally cursed herself for making. But how could he not be, when he held himself in such a stately, dignified manner? It was as if he lived a part, even if he was not the part, and Zenais found it harder and harder to keep her gaze away from him. The fact was solidifed even further when he mentioned later, how confident he was that one day, he would be a noble. As if that was all he needed, conviction, confidence, and it would be.
The kind of confidence Zenais had long snuffed out of her, when she was chased out of her home Kingdom.
Of course, he was no help, when he placed his thumb across her worrying her bottom lip. A shocked gasp escaped her lips, blue eyes darting upwards in surprise at his bold move. What had she said? The maids had said to protect herself, for she now represented the lady she served, and the lady she served was not just any random lady from a noble house, but the wife and Lady of the Leventi Dynasteia.
Gulping to calm her nerves as he spoke, she willed herself to not move, but instead waited for his hands to drop away, before taking a step back. "Sir Alexios." Zenais wondered at how she managed to keep her voice even when her body trembled within, from the sheer presence of the male before her. Had anyone else managed to illicit such response from her before? A perfect mixture of fear, awe, and a tad bit of curiosity. "I will check if Lady Eirini is available to meet you. In the mean time, please, let me lead you to the waiting room."
Presenting the picture of a dutiful servant, it was obvious that Zenais was no normal trained maid however. Raised as the daughter of a noblewomen, Zenais's words and movements were more refined then your regular maid, and it was likely the reason why Eirini had picked her to serve the lady herself, for she worked as a representation of the Lady without much work, and only her mind was to be improved upon, and its quickness in decision making.
Yet much to Zenais's surprise, it was Alexios who led her, as if he knew the place too well. Caught off guard, the brunette gaped at the hall he started down for a brief moment, before she quickly ran a few steps to catch up, just in time to catch his last comment which brought yet another flush to her cheeks. Gods, had any other male managed to make her blush as much as he had? Yiannis had been different, for Zenais had been actively trying on his part, if only for his gold. This guy... what was he trying to do?
"D-Do you want some wine then, Sir Alexios? I shall go and fetch some. And Lady Eirini-" she paused when a maid walked past them, and Zenais softly asked, only to receive a negative answer, which she quickly conveyed to the returning Commander. "My apologies, Sir Alexios. Lady Eirini seems to be otherwise indisposed at the moment. Perhaps you would like to leave a message, and I shall inform her of your visit at a later time?"
From the very first time Alexios had picked up a weapon he understood the dance. It was different for each ... sword, spear, bow, each instrument of conquest had its own unique rhythm. There was a moment to advance and then the necessity of retreat, pushing forward and pulling back in a game to ultimately overwhelm one's quarry and gain mastery over them. His strength and decisiveness lended itself towards the axe. Swift and certain strikes that may have left himself open but could turn the tide of battle in the blink of an eye. Here, with Zenais, was a different sort of dance but one no less strategic. He could see it in her darting eyes, hear it in her words and her breathing. He swore he could feel it vibrating in the air between them.
Battle was joined, and the objective for him was plain as it had been when he'd seen her in a tavern and knew then that he needed to know what it would sound like to hear his name on her lips. Achieving that was as satisfying as he thought it would be and more, but it whetted the appetite. Words were the flash of an axe. His thumb at her lip a sortie to test defenses. The one called 'The All-Conquering' by the adoring battalions under his command would not lose this contest, either. Zenais had shown a glimmer of something more irresistible than gold: potential.
The rush towards a room he knew would be empty at this hour on this day was another calculated step in his battle plan. The powerful strides of a man who wouldn't be denied were elongated even more than usual, reveling in how her rush to follow renewed the rosy blush on her cheeks. Had no one ever done this, he wondered? Had no one put her off guard and made the nightingale question why she sang or what purpose there was in remaining in the self-imposed cage of denial?
He halted as another maid passed them by, leaned in close to Zenais as the other girl scurried off and maintained that audacious nearness in spite of Lady Eirini's apparent (and expected) absence. No surprise registered on his gallant features. The confident smile kept its brilliance and his heated gaze didn't turn back the way they'd come. "Wine sounds lovely but only if you'll join me in it. And if your lady's absence makes that impossible here ... come with me," he murmured softly. "My time in Vasiliadon is precious. It is too short to waste and I'd consider a few hours well-spent in the company of a woman who may not have known my name ... but I haven't forgot her. Do you grasp how memorable you are, Zenais? You're probably burnt into the mind of everyone who has ever met you. Others may not dare enough to admit that, but they're not me. I would dare all to sate my curiosity and gratify my desires."
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From the very first time Alexios had picked up a weapon he understood the dance. It was different for each ... sword, spear, bow, each instrument of conquest had its own unique rhythm. There was a moment to advance and then the necessity of retreat, pushing forward and pulling back in a game to ultimately overwhelm one's quarry and gain mastery over them. His strength and decisiveness lended itself towards the axe. Swift and certain strikes that may have left himself open but could turn the tide of battle in the blink of an eye. Here, with Zenais, was a different sort of dance but one no less strategic. He could see it in her darting eyes, hear it in her words and her breathing. He swore he could feel it vibrating in the air between them.
Battle was joined, and the objective for him was plain as it had been when he'd seen her in a tavern and knew then that he needed to know what it would sound like to hear his name on her lips. Achieving that was as satisfying as he thought it would be and more, but it whetted the appetite. Words were the flash of an axe. His thumb at her lip a sortie to test defenses. The one called 'The All-Conquering' by the adoring battalions under his command would not lose this contest, either. Zenais had shown a glimmer of something more irresistible than gold: potential.
The rush towards a room he knew would be empty at this hour on this day was another calculated step in his battle plan. The powerful strides of a man who wouldn't be denied were elongated even more than usual, reveling in how her rush to follow renewed the rosy blush on her cheeks. Had no one ever done this, he wondered? Had no one put her off guard and made the nightingale question why she sang or what purpose there was in remaining in the self-imposed cage of denial?
He halted as another maid passed them by, leaned in close to Zenais as the other girl scurried off and maintained that audacious nearness in spite of Lady Eirini's apparent (and expected) absence. No surprise registered on his gallant features. The confident smile kept its brilliance and his heated gaze didn't turn back the way they'd come. "Wine sounds lovely but only if you'll join me in it. And if your lady's absence makes that impossible here ... come with me," he murmured softly. "My time in Vasiliadon is precious. It is too short to waste and I'd consider a few hours well-spent in the company of a woman who may not have known my name ... but I haven't forgot her. Do you grasp how memorable you are, Zenais? You're probably burnt into the mind of everyone who has ever met you. Others may not dare enough to admit that, but they're not me. I would dare all to sate my curiosity and gratify my desires."
From the very first time Alexios had picked up a weapon he understood the dance. It was different for each ... sword, spear, bow, each instrument of conquest had its own unique rhythm. There was a moment to advance and then the necessity of retreat, pushing forward and pulling back in a game to ultimately overwhelm one's quarry and gain mastery over them. His strength and decisiveness lended itself towards the axe. Swift and certain strikes that may have left himself open but could turn the tide of battle in the blink of an eye. Here, with Zenais, was a different sort of dance but one no less strategic. He could see it in her darting eyes, hear it in her words and her breathing. He swore he could feel it vibrating in the air between them.
Battle was joined, and the objective for him was plain as it had been when he'd seen her in a tavern and knew then that he needed to know what it would sound like to hear his name on her lips. Achieving that was as satisfying as he thought it would be and more, but it whetted the appetite. Words were the flash of an axe. His thumb at her lip a sortie to test defenses. The one called 'The All-Conquering' by the adoring battalions under his command would not lose this contest, either. Zenais had shown a glimmer of something more irresistible than gold: potential.
The rush towards a room he knew would be empty at this hour on this day was another calculated step in his battle plan. The powerful strides of a man who wouldn't be denied were elongated even more than usual, reveling in how her rush to follow renewed the rosy blush on her cheeks. Had no one ever done this, he wondered? Had no one put her off guard and made the nightingale question why she sang or what purpose there was in remaining in the self-imposed cage of denial?
He halted as another maid passed them by, leaned in close to Zenais as the other girl scurried off and maintained that audacious nearness in spite of Lady Eirini's apparent (and expected) absence. No surprise registered on his gallant features. The confident smile kept its brilliance and his heated gaze didn't turn back the way they'd come. "Wine sounds lovely but only if you'll join me in it. And if your lady's absence makes that impossible here ... come with me," he murmured softly. "My time in Vasiliadon is precious. It is too short to waste and I'd consider a few hours well-spent in the company of a woman who may not have known my name ... but I haven't forgot her. Do you grasp how memorable you are, Zenais? You're probably burnt into the mind of everyone who has ever met you. Others may not dare enough to admit that, but they're not me. I would dare all to sate my curiosity and gratify my desires."
As he neared the private parlor where Eirini usually received her guests, Zenais's heart rate increased a little when bits and pieces of the information the other maids had told her began to surface in her mind. One that stood out, was that while Eirini was exceedingly kind and nicer to her guests, a perfect hostess to anyone who came visiting, she did not take too kindly upon those who made themselves at home without her express permission, especially in her private parlor. But what could she do without looking impolite?
Worrying her fingers as she quietly followed behind him, merely listening as he spoke. How exactly would she stop someone, when his long, powerful strides ate up three of her own? Zenais's breath caught in her throat when he turned back to look at her, her blue gaze which had been looking hesitantly at Alexios before this, failing to avert quick enough to avoid his gaze.
"I-" she hesitated. Was she memorable? And was that a good thing? The brunette wasn't sure. She hoped to the Gods that she had been forgotten in Colchis, yet to be told again and again here, first by Eirini, and then by this Commander who apparently had remembered her even if she had forgotten him, was unnerving. Did that mean her life would still be in danger, especially of late when, she's heard of a Colchian emissary within Taengea, assisting King Stephanos? Zenais had trembled when she heard such news being gossiped in the servant's quarters.
"I'm not sure if being memorable is a good thing, Sir Alexios." she finally managed to murmur out, managing to keep the tremble in her voice to a bare minimum. With her hands still folded in front of her dress, Zenais lifted one to brush her brunette locks out of her eyes, tucking it behind her ear as she looked up. Lady Eirini had hired her to be a help to her, and how could she be a help if she didn't even know how to direct a guest to a place which would be more appropriate in the absence of her ladyship?
"Where would you have me follow you to?" It was a bold question, for sure. Inside her chest, Zenais's heart thumped wildly out of control, for to be so bold was out of character, especially for her. Should he step closer, Alexios would be able to see the shake in the hands held in front of her, the glimmer of uncertainty in the depths of her cerulean gaze. But her jaw was set in a type of determination that came only from someone whose had to scratch their way out of the toughest of positions, and somehow lived to tell the tale. Zenais had straightened her spine, and now looked at Alexios directly, hoping internally that her confidence wouldn't shake. At least not for now. "For I think, we should avoid my lady's private parlor... b-but if you so wish for company, I will accede to your wishes, Sir Alexios."
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As he neared the private parlor where Eirini usually received her guests, Zenais's heart rate increased a little when bits and pieces of the information the other maids had told her began to surface in her mind. One that stood out, was that while Eirini was exceedingly kind and nicer to her guests, a perfect hostess to anyone who came visiting, she did not take too kindly upon those who made themselves at home without her express permission, especially in her private parlor. But what could she do without looking impolite?
Worrying her fingers as she quietly followed behind him, merely listening as he spoke. How exactly would she stop someone, when his long, powerful strides ate up three of her own? Zenais's breath caught in her throat when he turned back to look at her, her blue gaze which had been looking hesitantly at Alexios before this, failing to avert quick enough to avoid his gaze.
"I-" she hesitated. Was she memorable? And was that a good thing? The brunette wasn't sure. She hoped to the Gods that she had been forgotten in Colchis, yet to be told again and again here, first by Eirini, and then by this Commander who apparently had remembered her even if she had forgotten him, was unnerving. Did that mean her life would still be in danger, especially of late when, she's heard of a Colchian emissary within Taengea, assisting King Stephanos? Zenais had trembled when she heard such news being gossiped in the servant's quarters.
"I'm not sure if being memorable is a good thing, Sir Alexios." she finally managed to murmur out, managing to keep the tremble in her voice to a bare minimum. With her hands still folded in front of her dress, Zenais lifted one to brush her brunette locks out of her eyes, tucking it behind her ear as she looked up. Lady Eirini had hired her to be a help to her, and how could she be a help if she didn't even know how to direct a guest to a place which would be more appropriate in the absence of her ladyship?
"Where would you have me follow you to?" It was a bold question, for sure. Inside her chest, Zenais's heart thumped wildly out of control, for to be so bold was out of character, especially for her. Should he step closer, Alexios would be able to see the shake in the hands held in front of her, the glimmer of uncertainty in the depths of her cerulean gaze. But her jaw was set in a type of determination that came only from someone whose had to scratch their way out of the toughest of positions, and somehow lived to tell the tale. Zenais had straightened her spine, and now looked at Alexios directly, hoping internally that her confidence wouldn't shake. At least not for now. "For I think, we should avoid my lady's private parlor... b-but if you so wish for company, I will accede to your wishes, Sir Alexios."
As he neared the private parlor where Eirini usually received her guests, Zenais's heart rate increased a little when bits and pieces of the information the other maids had told her began to surface in her mind. One that stood out, was that while Eirini was exceedingly kind and nicer to her guests, a perfect hostess to anyone who came visiting, she did not take too kindly upon those who made themselves at home without her express permission, especially in her private parlor. But what could she do without looking impolite?
Worrying her fingers as she quietly followed behind him, merely listening as he spoke. How exactly would she stop someone, when his long, powerful strides ate up three of her own? Zenais's breath caught in her throat when he turned back to look at her, her blue gaze which had been looking hesitantly at Alexios before this, failing to avert quick enough to avoid his gaze.
"I-" she hesitated. Was she memorable? And was that a good thing? The brunette wasn't sure. She hoped to the Gods that she had been forgotten in Colchis, yet to be told again and again here, first by Eirini, and then by this Commander who apparently had remembered her even if she had forgotten him, was unnerving. Did that mean her life would still be in danger, especially of late when, she's heard of a Colchian emissary within Taengea, assisting King Stephanos? Zenais had trembled when she heard such news being gossiped in the servant's quarters.
"I'm not sure if being memorable is a good thing, Sir Alexios." she finally managed to murmur out, managing to keep the tremble in her voice to a bare minimum. With her hands still folded in front of her dress, Zenais lifted one to brush her brunette locks out of her eyes, tucking it behind her ear as she looked up. Lady Eirini had hired her to be a help to her, and how could she be a help if she didn't even know how to direct a guest to a place which would be more appropriate in the absence of her ladyship?
"Where would you have me follow you to?" It was a bold question, for sure. Inside her chest, Zenais's heart thumped wildly out of control, for to be so bold was out of character, especially for her. Should he step closer, Alexios would be able to see the shake in the hands held in front of her, the glimmer of uncertainty in the depths of her cerulean gaze. But her jaw was set in a type of determination that came only from someone whose had to scratch their way out of the toughest of positions, and somehow lived to tell the tale. Zenais had straightened her spine, and now looked at Alexios directly, hoping internally that her confidence wouldn't shake. At least not for now. "For I think, we should avoid my lady's private parlor... b-but if you so wish for company, I will accede to your wishes, Sir Alexios."
Arrogance came naturally to Alexios. A career festooned with the laurels of victory and already ascension to a place few if any of his common birth could reach he questioned little and took much for granted. That went with a love life that had been dissolute and excessively varied since the death of his wife and the disappearance of his betrothed but ... something in Zenais put him in check. Plucked on another side, more considerate and even hesitant (or as much as he could be). His bravado gave way to a gentler expression, a softer smile, and he wouldn't suffer the distress his audacity had placed her in.
"Remembering you is a very good thing, at least in my eyes," he replied softly, and those aforementioned eyes were dancing azure honesty for at least this moment. The commander could pour on flattery like a poet but he meant his words. "There aren't many remarkable people in this world. You may not believe it, but you're one of those few, Zenais."
He drifted nearer to the nervous maid and reached for her hands, placing them between his own as steady reassurance; not the prelude to other things he desired. The corners of Alexios' mouth curled wryly. "There are a lot of places I'd like to take you. To dinner. To my bed. To dinner in my bed. Fantasies aside, you don't have anything to fear from me. Or with me. I like this courage," he nodded, appreciative that she had neither hurled herself down the nearest escape or kicked him in the tender bits by now. "And I'm not going to violate your lady's wishes. We won't disturb her parlor or intrude on her home. Would you let me take you out? And more importantly, would you wish that? Because that matters as much as my own desires which, as you can see," he released her hands to gesture at himself deprecatingly. "Are pretty damn clear."
Instead of proceeding further towards the family apartments Alexios took a step back in the other direction, towards the way they'd come, shifting like quicksilver but for a purpose. "If Eirini isn't here surely you can be spared for a few hours." There was another of those damn winks of his, defiantly charming even at his most unassuming. "Only if you want to. What are your wishes, nightingale?"
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Jul 1, 2019 18:07:25 GMT
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Arrogance came naturally to Alexios. A career festooned with the laurels of victory and already ascension to a place few if any of his common birth could reach he questioned little and took much for granted. That went with a love life that had been dissolute and excessively varied since the death of his wife and the disappearance of his betrothed but ... something in Zenais put him in check. Plucked on another side, more considerate and even hesitant (or as much as he could be). His bravado gave way to a gentler expression, a softer smile, and he wouldn't suffer the distress his audacity had placed her in.
"Remembering you is a very good thing, at least in my eyes," he replied softly, and those aforementioned eyes were dancing azure honesty for at least this moment. The commander could pour on flattery like a poet but he meant his words. "There aren't many remarkable people in this world. You may not believe it, but you're one of those few, Zenais."
He drifted nearer to the nervous maid and reached for her hands, placing them between his own as steady reassurance; not the prelude to other things he desired. The corners of Alexios' mouth curled wryly. "There are a lot of places I'd like to take you. To dinner. To my bed. To dinner in my bed. Fantasies aside, you don't have anything to fear from me. Or with me. I like this courage," he nodded, appreciative that she had neither hurled herself down the nearest escape or kicked him in the tender bits by now. "And I'm not going to violate your lady's wishes. We won't disturb her parlor or intrude on her home. Would you let me take you out? And more importantly, would you wish that? Because that matters as much as my own desires which, as you can see," he released her hands to gesture at himself deprecatingly. "Are pretty damn clear."
Instead of proceeding further towards the family apartments Alexios took a step back in the other direction, towards the way they'd come, shifting like quicksilver but for a purpose. "If Eirini isn't here surely you can be spared for a few hours." There was another of those damn winks of his, defiantly charming even at his most unassuming. "Only if you want to. What are your wishes, nightingale?"
Arrogance came naturally to Alexios. A career festooned with the laurels of victory and already ascension to a place few if any of his common birth could reach he questioned little and took much for granted. That went with a love life that had been dissolute and excessively varied since the death of his wife and the disappearance of his betrothed but ... something in Zenais put him in check. Plucked on another side, more considerate and even hesitant (or as much as he could be). His bravado gave way to a gentler expression, a softer smile, and he wouldn't suffer the distress his audacity had placed her in.
"Remembering you is a very good thing, at least in my eyes," he replied softly, and those aforementioned eyes were dancing azure honesty for at least this moment. The commander could pour on flattery like a poet but he meant his words. "There aren't many remarkable people in this world. You may not believe it, but you're one of those few, Zenais."
He drifted nearer to the nervous maid and reached for her hands, placing them between his own as steady reassurance; not the prelude to other things he desired. The corners of Alexios' mouth curled wryly. "There are a lot of places I'd like to take you. To dinner. To my bed. To dinner in my bed. Fantasies aside, you don't have anything to fear from me. Or with me. I like this courage," he nodded, appreciative that she had neither hurled herself down the nearest escape or kicked him in the tender bits by now. "And I'm not going to violate your lady's wishes. We won't disturb her parlor or intrude on her home. Would you let me take you out? And more importantly, would you wish that? Because that matters as much as my own desires which, as you can see," he released her hands to gesture at himself deprecatingly. "Are pretty damn clear."
Instead of proceeding further towards the family apartments Alexios took a step back in the other direction, towards the way they'd come, shifting like quicksilver but for a purpose. "If Eirini isn't here surely you can be spared for a few hours." There was another of those damn winks of his, defiantly charming even at his most unassuming. "Only if you want to. What are your wishes, nightingale?"
Once upon a time, Zenais of Alistair had held a lot more confidence then she did now. But that was a Zenais of a family long past, and all that was left now... was a hollow reminder of who she used to be. Back as the daughter of Proteus and Effie of Alistair, Zenais had been heralded as a beauty of Lyncaea, and many had vied for her hand whenever she accompanied her father to the Colchian capitol for Senate meets or court sessions. Now, Zenais usually kept her head hidden behind her hood, or paced in the shadows.
Until Eirini happened across her.
Unable to resist the flush again when Alexios's tone and gaze was gentle upon her, as he slathered flattery upon honeyed words on her. The question was... how much could she believe? She barely knew the guy, yet here he was heaping praise on her, a girl he remembered for... her what, looks? How remarkable could she be, when she had worked as a tavern maid over the past decade?
Biting both lips down together as he neared, Zenais froze when he picked up her hand. His was warm, the kind she had not felt in years. When was the last time she had allowed someone near her? Zenais had turned into a skittish lamb the day she had left Colchis, but the Commander's heat against hers seemed... somewhat soothing, when one took into account the steady, reassuring way in which he addressed her. There was no mistake in his implication. To dinner. In his bed.
If her cheeks could go any redder, they would. As it was, Zenais's gaze was already steadily trained on her tones, her throat clamming up. The affect he had on her was palpable though, from his piercing eyes all the way to his tall, dignified bearing, down to his bronzed complexion. They all made a very... believable person, and one who seemed to be chipping away at Zenais's defenses.
He liked her courage? In a world where women were expected to sit back, sit in the shadows, be seen and not heard?
Against her wishes, Zenais couldn't help the small, nervous chuckle that escaped her as he gestured at himself. He was not hiding his obvious attraction to her looks,now was he? But what would Lady Eirini do in such a situation?
That should not have even been a question. Even in the short time she's known her ladyship, Lady Eirini has shown herself to be someone who took a bull by its horns, and rode it the way she wanted to. And if she had now taken the Leventi wife to be her idol... well, she had to try her best, or risk disappointing her mistress, now wouldn't she?
His winks were disarming, for sure, but not more then his whole look put together. Zenais found herself worrying with her fingers in front of her, as his offer rang in her mind. What did she want? When was the last time she had asked herself that question? Before this, it had been what had her family wanted, and then what did Yiannis want... and after arriving in Taengea, it was just a daily survival grind. What did she want?
"I want..." she started, and then trailed off, her blue eyes wandering a little as she gave it some thought. "I want to learn the ways in which to be a worthy assistant to Lady Eirini." Finally, with a little more conviction in her voice, she turned to meet her own blue irises to his, a lilt of confidence in her tone. "And to do her proud, would be to treat her guests in ways that would please them. What would please you then, Sir Alexios?"
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Jul 1, 2019 18:07:47 GMT
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Once upon a time, Zenais of Alistair had held a lot more confidence then she did now. But that was a Zenais of a family long past, and all that was left now... was a hollow reminder of who she used to be. Back as the daughter of Proteus and Effie of Alistair, Zenais had been heralded as a beauty of Lyncaea, and many had vied for her hand whenever she accompanied her father to the Colchian capitol for Senate meets or court sessions. Now, Zenais usually kept her head hidden behind her hood, or paced in the shadows.
Until Eirini happened across her.
Unable to resist the flush again when Alexios's tone and gaze was gentle upon her, as he slathered flattery upon honeyed words on her. The question was... how much could she believe? She barely knew the guy, yet here he was heaping praise on her, a girl he remembered for... her what, looks? How remarkable could she be, when she had worked as a tavern maid over the past decade?
Biting both lips down together as he neared, Zenais froze when he picked up her hand. His was warm, the kind she had not felt in years. When was the last time she had allowed someone near her? Zenais had turned into a skittish lamb the day she had left Colchis, but the Commander's heat against hers seemed... somewhat soothing, when one took into account the steady, reassuring way in which he addressed her. There was no mistake in his implication. To dinner. In his bed.
If her cheeks could go any redder, they would. As it was, Zenais's gaze was already steadily trained on her tones, her throat clamming up. The affect he had on her was palpable though, from his piercing eyes all the way to his tall, dignified bearing, down to his bronzed complexion. They all made a very... believable person, and one who seemed to be chipping away at Zenais's defenses.
He liked her courage? In a world where women were expected to sit back, sit in the shadows, be seen and not heard?
Against her wishes, Zenais couldn't help the small, nervous chuckle that escaped her as he gestured at himself. He was not hiding his obvious attraction to her looks,now was he? But what would Lady Eirini do in such a situation?
That should not have even been a question. Even in the short time she's known her ladyship, Lady Eirini has shown herself to be someone who took a bull by its horns, and rode it the way she wanted to. And if she had now taken the Leventi wife to be her idol... well, she had to try her best, or risk disappointing her mistress, now wouldn't she?
His winks were disarming, for sure, but not more then his whole look put together. Zenais found herself worrying with her fingers in front of her, as his offer rang in her mind. What did she want? When was the last time she had asked herself that question? Before this, it had been what had her family wanted, and then what did Yiannis want... and after arriving in Taengea, it was just a daily survival grind. What did she want?
"I want..." she started, and then trailed off, her blue eyes wandering a little as she gave it some thought. "I want to learn the ways in which to be a worthy assistant to Lady Eirini." Finally, with a little more conviction in her voice, she turned to meet her own blue irises to his, a lilt of confidence in her tone. "And to do her proud, would be to treat her guests in ways that would please them. What would please you then, Sir Alexios?"
Once upon a time, Zenais of Alistair had held a lot more confidence then she did now. But that was a Zenais of a family long past, and all that was left now... was a hollow reminder of who she used to be. Back as the daughter of Proteus and Effie of Alistair, Zenais had been heralded as a beauty of Lyncaea, and many had vied for her hand whenever she accompanied her father to the Colchian capitol for Senate meets or court sessions. Now, Zenais usually kept her head hidden behind her hood, or paced in the shadows.
Until Eirini happened across her.
Unable to resist the flush again when Alexios's tone and gaze was gentle upon her, as he slathered flattery upon honeyed words on her. The question was... how much could she believe? She barely knew the guy, yet here he was heaping praise on her, a girl he remembered for... her what, looks? How remarkable could she be, when she had worked as a tavern maid over the past decade?
Biting both lips down together as he neared, Zenais froze when he picked up her hand. His was warm, the kind she had not felt in years. When was the last time she had allowed someone near her? Zenais had turned into a skittish lamb the day she had left Colchis, but the Commander's heat against hers seemed... somewhat soothing, when one took into account the steady, reassuring way in which he addressed her. There was no mistake in his implication. To dinner. In his bed.
If her cheeks could go any redder, they would. As it was, Zenais's gaze was already steadily trained on her tones, her throat clamming up. The affect he had on her was palpable though, from his piercing eyes all the way to his tall, dignified bearing, down to his bronzed complexion. They all made a very... believable person, and one who seemed to be chipping away at Zenais's defenses.
He liked her courage? In a world where women were expected to sit back, sit in the shadows, be seen and not heard?
Against her wishes, Zenais couldn't help the small, nervous chuckle that escaped her as he gestured at himself. He was not hiding his obvious attraction to her looks,now was he? But what would Lady Eirini do in such a situation?
That should not have even been a question. Even in the short time she's known her ladyship, Lady Eirini has shown herself to be someone who took a bull by its horns, and rode it the way she wanted to. And if she had now taken the Leventi wife to be her idol... well, she had to try her best, or risk disappointing her mistress, now wouldn't she?
His winks were disarming, for sure, but not more then his whole look put together. Zenais found herself worrying with her fingers in front of her, as his offer rang in her mind. What did she want? When was the last time she had asked herself that question? Before this, it had been what had her family wanted, and then what did Yiannis want... and after arriving in Taengea, it was just a daily survival grind. What did she want?
"I want..." she started, and then trailed off, her blue eyes wandering a little as she gave it some thought. "I want to learn the ways in which to be a worthy assistant to Lady Eirini." Finally, with a little more conviction in her voice, she turned to meet her own blue irises to his, a lilt of confidence in her tone. "And to do her proud, would be to treat her guests in ways that would please them. What would please you then, Sir Alexios?"
Pursuit of beautiful women was not a frequent pastime for Alexios, artful at the chase as he was. He craved companionship, needed it to fill the void on the dark nights when memories of Lydia curled their fingers around his brain and would not let go. His men never saw their commander bury his face in a pillow to stifle his screams or pace his tent for hours on end because he could not bear to lie alone. Finding company for those hours was not a pursuit. It required no challenge and presented no reward. He found willing partners to bed but he found few worth desiring.
If he were capable of being honest either with himself or with anyone else, Alexios would have conceded that he did not consider the game worth the candle. Those he wanted could never be had. Lydia. Hypatia. Every step he took towards contentment the gods drew whomever he desired further away. He told himself he should be grateful for their cruel games. Emptiness fueled the fires of his ambition and made him all the more acquisitive. But that was no salve for loneliness.
And at moments like this those old beasts of his truest nature gnawed upon the all-conquering Alexios. Their claws tore open his ardor, let it bleed out for Zenais to see in the sense of profound wonder and fixation that hung on her blushes. Their teeth rent a groan so soft it could have almost gone unheard as the young woman articulated her desires. She wanted to learn and to please him.
Gentleness beyond what a brutish commander of soldiers should have possessed caressed over her cheek, banishing another lock of lustrous brown hair away from her face with a feather-light touch of the back of his hand. "Then let me show you some of what you could stand to learn, little nightingale." His grin offered up a peal of laughter. "There are few men in this city better equipped for the task. I know the mind of your mistress intimately. And I would know yours, too, if you'll continue to speak it honestly. That would please me. That ..."
He took a slow step back towards the foyer, bidding her follow with a cock of his swarthy head. "And for you to see the gifts you possess. The ones that held me spellbound in a tavern I would have been in and out of it in a heartbeat that night if you hadn't been there. Let me take you out, show you off, and set you loose among a Vasiliadon that has no idea what they're missing. Come." He offered his hand to her, an invitation which the young woman could spurn if she chose. It was extended with no compulsion, no order, no command to be obeyed. This was a request from a man who wanted very much for Zenais to say yes ... and himself to know the joy of pursuit again if only for a while.
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Jul 1, 2019 18:08:09 GMT
Posted In Take Me Home on Jul 1, 2019 18:08:09 GMT
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Pursuit of beautiful women was not a frequent pastime for Alexios, artful at the chase as he was. He craved companionship, needed it to fill the void on the dark nights when memories of Lydia curled their fingers around his brain and would not let go. His men never saw their commander bury his face in a pillow to stifle his screams or pace his tent for hours on end because he could not bear to lie alone. Finding company for those hours was not a pursuit. It required no challenge and presented no reward. He found willing partners to bed but he found few worth desiring.
If he were capable of being honest either with himself or with anyone else, Alexios would have conceded that he did not consider the game worth the candle. Those he wanted could never be had. Lydia. Hypatia. Every step he took towards contentment the gods drew whomever he desired further away. He told himself he should be grateful for their cruel games. Emptiness fueled the fires of his ambition and made him all the more acquisitive. But that was no salve for loneliness.
And at moments like this those old beasts of his truest nature gnawed upon the all-conquering Alexios. Their claws tore open his ardor, let it bleed out for Zenais to see in the sense of profound wonder and fixation that hung on her blushes. Their teeth rent a groan so soft it could have almost gone unheard as the young woman articulated her desires. She wanted to learn and to please him.
Gentleness beyond what a brutish commander of soldiers should have possessed caressed over her cheek, banishing another lock of lustrous brown hair away from her face with a feather-light touch of the back of his hand. "Then let me show you some of what you could stand to learn, little nightingale." His grin offered up a peal of laughter. "There are few men in this city better equipped for the task. I know the mind of your mistress intimately. And I would know yours, too, if you'll continue to speak it honestly. That would please me. That ..."
He took a slow step back towards the foyer, bidding her follow with a cock of his swarthy head. "And for you to see the gifts you possess. The ones that held me spellbound in a tavern I would have been in and out of it in a heartbeat that night if you hadn't been there. Let me take you out, show you off, and set you loose among a Vasiliadon that has no idea what they're missing. Come." He offered his hand to her, an invitation which the young woman could spurn if she chose. It was extended with no compulsion, no order, no command to be obeyed. This was a request from a man who wanted very much for Zenais to say yes ... and himself to know the joy of pursuit again if only for a while.
Pursuit of beautiful women was not a frequent pastime for Alexios, artful at the chase as he was. He craved companionship, needed it to fill the void on the dark nights when memories of Lydia curled their fingers around his brain and would not let go. His men never saw their commander bury his face in a pillow to stifle his screams or pace his tent for hours on end because he could not bear to lie alone. Finding company for those hours was not a pursuit. It required no challenge and presented no reward. He found willing partners to bed but he found few worth desiring.
If he were capable of being honest either with himself or with anyone else, Alexios would have conceded that he did not consider the game worth the candle. Those he wanted could never be had. Lydia. Hypatia. Every step he took towards contentment the gods drew whomever he desired further away. He told himself he should be grateful for their cruel games. Emptiness fueled the fires of his ambition and made him all the more acquisitive. But that was no salve for loneliness.
And at moments like this those old beasts of his truest nature gnawed upon the all-conquering Alexios. Their claws tore open his ardor, let it bleed out for Zenais to see in the sense of profound wonder and fixation that hung on her blushes. Their teeth rent a groan so soft it could have almost gone unheard as the young woman articulated her desires. She wanted to learn and to please him.
Gentleness beyond what a brutish commander of soldiers should have possessed caressed over her cheek, banishing another lock of lustrous brown hair away from her face with a feather-light touch of the back of his hand. "Then let me show you some of what you could stand to learn, little nightingale." His grin offered up a peal of laughter. "There are few men in this city better equipped for the task. I know the mind of your mistress intimately. And I would know yours, too, if you'll continue to speak it honestly. That would please me. That ..."
He took a slow step back towards the foyer, bidding her follow with a cock of his swarthy head. "And for you to see the gifts you possess. The ones that held me spellbound in a tavern I would have been in and out of it in a heartbeat that night if you hadn't been there. Let me take you out, show you off, and set you loose among a Vasiliadon that has no idea what they're missing. Come." He offered his hand to her, an invitation which the young woman could spurn if she chose. It was extended with no compulsion, no order, no command to be obeyed. This was a request from a man who wanted very much for Zenais to say yes ... and himself to know the joy of pursuit again if only for a while.
His gentleness was a stark contrast to his tall figure and rouguishly handsome looks, a difference that Zenais was still trying to come to terms with as he spoke. What was it about him that she found so difficult to drag her eyes away from? The cerulean eyes so much like hers drew Zenais in, her lips falling slightly agape as he spoke, brushing her brunette locks away from her, leaving a crackle of electricity on her skin in its wake. If he knew Eirini as well as he said he did... surely her mistress would not mind?
Plus, he did say it would please him.
Gifts? She had them? Every word he said to her was intriguing, and Zenais found herself taking a step towards him even before she could deny. Catching herself with a skipped breath, the girl paused in her motions, and gave it thorough thought again. In a way, she had finished her tasks for now, and was only waiting for her ladyship to conclude her business before returning to her side. Surely...
"Only for a brief moment? I must return when Lady Eirini needs me." she murmured, pausing, hesitation warring on her face. It wouldn't do if she displeased the man, for Eirini would not agree on a cause for displeasure for any of her acquaintences. Biting her lip as she thought again, a habit she had never noticed in herself each time she was hesitating or unsure, finally, Zenais took a deep breathe, and reached out to lay her small palm in his offered hand.
It felt dwarfed in his palm, large and warm as hers was small and smooth, although calloused after years of hard work in the tavern, and the brief stint she spent on a ship sailing from Colchis to Taengea. Touch was something still foreign to Zenais, who had shied away from close contact to people for years after her departure from Colchis. Alexios however, seemed enough to make her forget all of that as she was drawn in by his honeyed words.
"Then teach me. Teach me what I could do to please others, so I can reach far greater then the lot of life the Gods have given me." For the first time, Zenais knew what she wanted. After spending the time with Lady Eirini, and now meeting Alexios who so assuredly could say he would one day be a noble, even despite his birth circumstances... what excuse did Zenais have to be hiding in her small corner of life, stuck with a past still holding her in chains? She wanted far more then the stagnant life she had not moved on from. Perhaps today would be the first day of that.
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Jul 1, 2019 18:08:30 GMT
Posted In Take Me Home on Jul 1, 2019 18:08:30 GMT
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His gentleness was a stark contrast to his tall figure and rouguishly handsome looks, a difference that Zenais was still trying to come to terms with as he spoke. What was it about him that she found so difficult to drag her eyes away from? The cerulean eyes so much like hers drew Zenais in, her lips falling slightly agape as he spoke, brushing her brunette locks away from her, leaving a crackle of electricity on her skin in its wake. If he knew Eirini as well as he said he did... surely her mistress would not mind?
Plus, he did say it would please him.
Gifts? She had them? Every word he said to her was intriguing, and Zenais found herself taking a step towards him even before she could deny. Catching herself with a skipped breath, the girl paused in her motions, and gave it thorough thought again. In a way, she had finished her tasks for now, and was only waiting for her ladyship to conclude her business before returning to her side. Surely...
"Only for a brief moment? I must return when Lady Eirini needs me." she murmured, pausing, hesitation warring on her face. It wouldn't do if she displeased the man, for Eirini would not agree on a cause for displeasure for any of her acquaintences. Biting her lip as she thought again, a habit she had never noticed in herself each time she was hesitating or unsure, finally, Zenais took a deep breathe, and reached out to lay her small palm in his offered hand.
It felt dwarfed in his palm, large and warm as hers was small and smooth, although calloused after years of hard work in the tavern, and the brief stint she spent on a ship sailing from Colchis to Taengea. Touch was something still foreign to Zenais, who had shied away from close contact to people for years after her departure from Colchis. Alexios however, seemed enough to make her forget all of that as she was drawn in by his honeyed words.
"Then teach me. Teach me what I could do to please others, so I can reach far greater then the lot of life the Gods have given me." For the first time, Zenais knew what she wanted. After spending the time with Lady Eirini, and now meeting Alexios who so assuredly could say he would one day be a noble, even despite his birth circumstances... what excuse did Zenais have to be hiding in her small corner of life, stuck with a past still holding her in chains? She wanted far more then the stagnant life she had not moved on from. Perhaps today would be the first day of that.
His gentleness was a stark contrast to his tall figure and rouguishly handsome looks, a difference that Zenais was still trying to come to terms with as he spoke. What was it about him that she found so difficult to drag her eyes away from? The cerulean eyes so much like hers drew Zenais in, her lips falling slightly agape as he spoke, brushing her brunette locks away from her, leaving a crackle of electricity on her skin in its wake. If he knew Eirini as well as he said he did... surely her mistress would not mind?
Plus, he did say it would please him.
Gifts? She had them? Every word he said to her was intriguing, and Zenais found herself taking a step towards him even before she could deny. Catching herself with a skipped breath, the girl paused in her motions, and gave it thorough thought again. In a way, she had finished her tasks for now, and was only waiting for her ladyship to conclude her business before returning to her side. Surely...
"Only for a brief moment? I must return when Lady Eirini needs me." she murmured, pausing, hesitation warring on her face. It wouldn't do if she displeased the man, for Eirini would not agree on a cause for displeasure for any of her acquaintences. Biting her lip as she thought again, a habit she had never noticed in herself each time she was hesitating or unsure, finally, Zenais took a deep breathe, and reached out to lay her small palm in his offered hand.
It felt dwarfed in his palm, large and warm as hers was small and smooth, although calloused after years of hard work in the tavern, and the brief stint she spent on a ship sailing from Colchis to Taengea. Touch was something still foreign to Zenais, who had shied away from close contact to people for years after her departure from Colchis. Alexios however, seemed enough to make her forget all of that as she was drawn in by his honeyed words.
"Then teach me. Teach me what I could do to please others, so I can reach far greater then the lot of life the Gods have given me." For the first time, Zenais knew what she wanted. After spending the time with Lady Eirini, and now meeting Alexios who so assuredly could say he would one day be a noble, even despite his birth circumstances... what excuse did Zenais have to be hiding in her small corner of life, stuck with a past still holding her in chains? She wanted far more then the stagnant life she had not moved on from. Perhaps today would be the first day of that.
