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It was true that Vasia’s glance had strayed towards where her brother and the monarch were in conversation, though she knew Mateos would hardly be touched by her concern. Still, her smile was apologetic as she realised that her wandering attention had been notuced by the Princess Persephone, and she hoped it conveyed her gratitude for that little reassurance.
Vasia could hardly imagine Mateos having done anything to warrant any negative attention from their King, but there was always a very slight degree of uncertainty when one was summoned to report to the palati, whatever the reason might be. The blonde set it aside for later though, returned her focus to those ladies she stood with.
As Persephone spoke of how pleased she was with the turnout for the event, Vasia looked around with bright eyes. It did indeed seem that the festival had drawn many people, nobles and common folk alike, and certainly it would not harm the monarchy to be patrons to such an event. She nodded, about to comment to such an end when their small group was joined by Lady Daniil of Marikas. The blonde fell silent in the following greetings, giving the younger woman a polite nod even though no address had been offered to her. There was little chance for the Marikas woman to address the slight though, for in the next moment – and Vasia was not quite sure how it happened – there was a cry of alarm from Persephone then Daniil had stumbled and disappeared right over the harbour wall.
“Oh no!” The blonde’s cry of distress was accompanied by her taking half a step forward before she turned to find her brother. “Mateos! Help her!” There was no knowing if the young woman could swim, and even if she could, it was an entirely different matter trying to do so with a waterlogged gown clinging to your arms and legs.
When she saw the tall form of her brother moving forwards though Vasia relaxed a little. Mateos would not let any harm befall the girl, and now she knew that was being taken care of, she looked to her lady’s maid, instructing the girl to go seek out a cup of something warming for Daniil when she was pulled to safety before turning to Lady Cyrene. “Mayhaps you might be so kind as to allow the Lady Daniil to retire to your manor, Lady Cyrene? I daresay she would appreciate a change of clothes too” She had already begun looking around for a himation she might borrow to offer to the girl when she emerged. Whilst not a cold day, it would still have been a shock to make such a splash, both literally and figuratively.
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This character is currently a work in progress.
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It was true that Vasia’s glance had strayed towards where her brother and the monarch were in conversation, though she knew Mateos would hardly be touched by her concern. Still, her smile was apologetic as she realised that her wandering attention had been notuced by the Princess Persephone, and she hoped it conveyed her gratitude for that little reassurance.
Vasia could hardly imagine Mateos having done anything to warrant any negative attention from their King, but there was always a very slight degree of uncertainty when one was summoned to report to the palati, whatever the reason might be. The blonde set it aside for later though, returned her focus to those ladies she stood with.
As Persephone spoke of how pleased she was with the turnout for the event, Vasia looked around with bright eyes. It did indeed seem that the festival had drawn many people, nobles and common folk alike, and certainly it would not harm the monarchy to be patrons to such an event. She nodded, about to comment to such an end when their small group was joined by Lady Daniil of Marikas. The blonde fell silent in the following greetings, giving the younger woman a polite nod even though no address had been offered to her. There was little chance for the Marikas woman to address the slight though, for in the next moment – and Vasia was not quite sure how it happened – there was a cry of alarm from Persephone then Daniil had stumbled and disappeared right over the harbour wall.
“Oh no!” The blonde’s cry of distress was accompanied by her taking half a step forward before she turned to find her brother. “Mateos! Help her!” There was no knowing if the young woman could swim, and even if she could, it was an entirely different matter trying to do so with a waterlogged gown clinging to your arms and legs.
When she saw the tall form of her brother moving forwards though Vasia relaxed a little. Mateos would not let any harm befall the girl, and now she knew that was being taken care of, she looked to her lady’s maid, instructing the girl to go seek out a cup of something warming for Daniil when she was pulled to safety before turning to Lady Cyrene. “Mayhaps you might be so kind as to allow the Lady Daniil to retire to your manor, Lady Cyrene? I daresay she would appreciate a change of clothes too” She had already begun looking around for a himation she might borrow to offer to the girl when she emerged. Whilst not a cold day, it would still have been a shock to make such a splash, both literally and figuratively.
It was true that Vasia’s glance had strayed towards where her brother and the monarch were in conversation, though she knew Mateos would hardly be touched by her concern. Still, her smile was apologetic as she realised that her wandering attention had been notuced by the Princess Persephone, and she hoped it conveyed her gratitude for that little reassurance.
Vasia could hardly imagine Mateos having done anything to warrant any negative attention from their King, but there was always a very slight degree of uncertainty when one was summoned to report to the palati, whatever the reason might be. The blonde set it aside for later though, returned her focus to those ladies she stood with.
As Persephone spoke of how pleased she was with the turnout for the event, Vasia looked around with bright eyes. It did indeed seem that the festival had drawn many people, nobles and common folk alike, and certainly it would not harm the monarchy to be patrons to such an event. She nodded, about to comment to such an end when their small group was joined by Lady Daniil of Marikas. The blonde fell silent in the following greetings, giving the younger woman a polite nod even though no address had been offered to her. There was little chance for the Marikas woman to address the slight though, for in the next moment – and Vasia was not quite sure how it happened – there was a cry of alarm from Persephone then Daniil had stumbled and disappeared right over the harbour wall.
“Oh no!” The blonde’s cry of distress was accompanied by her taking half a step forward before she turned to find her brother. “Mateos! Help her!” There was no knowing if the young woman could swim, and even if she could, it was an entirely different matter trying to do so with a waterlogged gown clinging to your arms and legs.
When she saw the tall form of her brother moving forwards though Vasia relaxed a little. Mateos would not let any harm befall the girl, and now she knew that was being taken care of, she looked to her lady’s maid, instructing the girl to go seek out a cup of something warming for Daniil when she was pulled to safety before turning to Lady Cyrene. “Mayhaps you might be so kind as to allow the Lady Daniil to retire to your manor, Lady Cyrene? I daresay she would appreciate a change of clothes too” She had already begun looking around for a himation she might borrow to offer to the girl when she emerged. Whilst not a cold day, it would still have been a shock to make such a splash, both literally and figuratively.
The Lord Mateos' greeting was as unsurprising as his quick action to the aid of Lady Daniil. Persephone had known the dashing Commander for many years, both indirectly as her father's daughter but also on a slightly more personal level in recent times when the king had begun to offer her certain clerical and leadership responsibilities. A growing connection with his sister and aunt, the Lady Lysta, had her name becoming familiar to him as his had become easily recognisable to her. And she had come to know - whilst not the extent, nor reason - that the Antonis military leader was not entirely comfortable around the fairer sex; his relatives being the sole exceptions to the rule.
This was not uncommon in many of the men that Persephone interacted with in a formal capacity. For the female gender was seen by many to be delicate in constitution. Not weak or inferior... simply different in makeup and purpose. And those men whose lives were centred around power and strength; violence and victory... they seemed to be the ones that struggled the most with how to interact with a creature and being so widely considered to need a more delicate touch.
Keen to ensure that his discomfort was neither mocked, noticed or exacerbated in her company, Persephone was stoic but friendly in her address, offering a dip in her knees at his most respectful greeting. Her words were murmured with a calm strength of purpose and limited feminine emotion, and her gaze was strong and unyielding.
"A pleasure to receive you, Lord Mateos."
The words were simple but their meaning strong. And all other concerns could be addressed at some other time.
A time that was not interrupted by the cataclysm that was the young noble woman falling from the docks!
What was equally unsurprising, with his career of success in mind, of course, was the way in which the Lord Mateos leapt into action at the first realisation of trouble for the Lady Daniil. Without hesitation, the man rushed forwards, dropped to his belly upon the thoroughfare and called for his legs to he held so that he might lower himself towards the water like a human ladder.
Whilst it may have seemed excessive to others, Persephone knew the man to be acting with intelligence. With all the ships docked in the harbour, and the currents that whipped beneath the wharfs, by the time anyone moved to the nearest steps, arranged a small boat and headed around the larger vessels to Daniil's location, the girl could be dragged under by the weight of her gowns and the undertows of the port's waters and be lost to drowning.
"Obey his orders!" Persephone instructed without a second thought, her head turning to the members of her personal guardsmen, her barked instructions scurrying them to hold onto the Lord Mateos' legs. Shen then turned in a swirl of pretty colours and silks to address the soldiers on the docks, ordered to be present in order to stop any riots or fights, who now stood looking anxious to help but unsure how to go about it. "Secure the walkway - no carriages or transport." She ordered, for it would do not help to anyone if an over-eager animal drawn cart charged by and rode over Lord Mateos' legs or knocked down those who held them.
Watching as Vasia fell into step with her and immediately started to make arrangements for when the young woman was brought back to dry land, Persephone gave her a nod of camaraderie and then took the steps back she had been told to by the would-be rescuer. For she was of the same opinion as he: that it would do no good to have two noble ladies struggling in the water below.
She saw no reason to insult the man who valiantly played hero by instructing him to be careful. For he was a man of precision and efficiency. But to send up a hopeful prayer to Poseidon and to the patron God of women, Artemis, could do no harm surely, she thought, her hands drawing together at her chest and her thoughts headed upwards to Olympus...
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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The Lord Mateos' greeting was as unsurprising as his quick action to the aid of Lady Daniil. Persephone had known the dashing Commander for many years, both indirectly as her father's daughter but also on a slightly more personal level in recent times when the king had begun to offer her certain clerical and leadership responsibilities. A growing connection with his sister and aunt, the Lady Lysta, had her name becoming familiar to him as his had become easily recognisable to her. And she had come to know - whilst not the extent, nor reason - that the Antonis military leader was not entirely comfortable around the fairer sex; his relatives being the sole exceptions to the rule.
This was not uncommon in many of the men that Persephone interacted with in a formal capacity. For the female gender was seen by many to be delicate in constitution. Not weak or inferior... simply different in makeup and purpose. And those men whose lives were centred around power and strength; violence and victory... they seemed to be the ones that struggled the most with how to interact with a creature and being so widely considered to need a more delicate touch.
Keen to ensure that his discomfort was neither mocked, noticed or exacerbated in her company, Persephone was stoic but friendly in her address, offering a dip in her knees at his most respectful greeting. Her words were murmured with a calm strength of purpose and limited feminine emotion, and her gaze was strong and unyielding.
"A pleasure to receive you, Lord Mateos."
The words were simple but their meaning strong. And all other concerns could be addressed at some other time.
A time that was not interrupted by the cataclysm that was the young noble woman falling from the docks!
What was equally unsurprising, with his career of success in mind, of course, was the way in which the Lord Mateos leapt into action at the first realisation of trouble for the Lady Daniil. Without hesitation, the man rushed forwards, dropped to his belly upon the thoroughfare and called for his legs to he held so that he might lower himself towards the water like a human ladder.
Whilst it may have seemed excessive to others, Persephone knew the man to be acting with intelligence. With all the ships docked in the harbour, and the currents that whipped beneath the wharfs, by the time anyone moved to the nearest steps, arranged a small boat and headed around the larger vessels to Daniil's location, the girl could be dragged under by the weight of her gowns and the undertows of the port's waters and be lost to drowning.
"Obey his orders!" Persephone instructed without a second thought, her head turning to the members of her personal guardsmen, her barked instructions scurrying them to hold onto the Lord Mateos' legs. Shen then turned in a swirl of pretty colours and silks to address the soldiers on the docks, ordered to be present in order to stop any riots or fights, who now stood looking anxious to help but unsure how to go about it. "Secure the walkway - no carriages or transport." She ordered, for it would do not help to anyone if an over-eager animal drawn cart charged by and rode over Lord Mateos' legs or knocked down those who held them.
Watching as Vasia fell into step with her and immediately started to make arrangements for when the young woman was brought back to dry land, Persephone gave her a nod of camaraderie and then took the steps back she had been told to by the would-be rescuer. For she was of the same opinion as he: that it would do no good to have two noble ladies struggling in the water below.
She saw no reason to insult the man who valiantly played hero by instructing him to be careful. For he was a man of precision and efficiency. But to send up a hopeful prayer to Poseidon and to the patron God of women, Artemis, could do no harm surely, she thought, her hands drawing together at her chest and her thoughts headed upwards to Olympus...
The Lord Mateos' greeting was as unsurprising as his quick action to the aid of Lady Daniil. Persephone had known the dashing Commander for many years, both indirectly as her father's daughter but also on a slightly more personal level in recent times when the king had begun to offer her certain clerical and leadership responsibilities. A growing connection with his sister and aunt, the Lady Lysta, had her name becoming familiar to him as his had become easily recognisable to her. And she had come to know - whilst not the extent, nor reason - that the Antonis military leader was not entirely comfortable around the fairer sex; his relatives being the sole exceptions to the rule.
This was not uncommon in many of the men that Persephone interacted with in a formal capacity. For the female gender was seen by many to be delicate in constitution. Not weak or inferior... simply different in makeup and purpose. And those men whose lives were centred around power and strength; violence and victory... they seemed to be the ones that struggled the most with how to interact with a creature and being so widely considered to need a more delicate touch.
Keen to ensure that his discomfort was neither mocked, noticed or exacerbated in her company, Persephone was stoic but friendly in her address, offering a dip in her knees at his most respectful greeting. Her words were murmured with a calm strength of purpose and limited feminine emotion, and her gaze was strong and unyielding.
"A pleasure to receive you, Lord Mateos."
The words were simple but their meaning strong. And all other concerns could be addressed at some other time.
A time that was not interrupted by the cataclysm that was the young noble woman falling from the docks!
What was equally unsurprising, with his career of success in mind, of course, was the way in which the Lord Mateos leapt into action at the first realisation of trouble for the Lady Daniil. Without hesitation, the man rushed forwards, dropped to his belly upon the thoroughfare and called for his legs to he held so that he might lower himself towards the water like a human ladder.
Whilst it may have seemed excessive to others, Persephone knew the man to be acting with intelligence. With all the ships docked in the harbour, and the currents that whipped beneath the wharfs, by the time anyone moved to the nearest steps, arranged a small boat and headed around the larger vessels to Daniil's location, the girl could be dragged under by the weight of her gowns and the undertows of the port's waters and be lost to drowning.
"Obey his orders!" Persephone instructed without a second thought, her head turning to the members of her personal guardsmen, her barked instructions scurrying them to hold onto the Lord Mateos' legs. Shen then turned in a swirl of pretty colours and silks to address the soldiers on the docks, ordered to be present in order to stop any riots or fights, who now stood looking anxious to help but unsure how to go about it. "Secure the walkway - no carriages or transport." She ordered, for it would do not help to anyone if an over-eager animal drawn cart charged by and rode over Lord Mateos' legs or knocked down those who held them.
Watching as Vasia fell into step with her and immediately started to make arrangements for when the young woman was brought back to dry land, Persephone gave her a nod of camaraderie and then took the steps back she had been told to by the would-be rescuer. For she was of the same opinion as he: that it would do no good to have two noble ladies struggling in the water below.
She saw no reason to insult the man who valiantly played hero by instructing him to be careful. For he was a man of precision and efficiency. But to send up a hopeful prayer to Poseidon and to the patron God of women, Artemis, could do no harm surely, she thought, her hands drawing together at her chest and her thoughts headed upwards to Olympus...
It wasn’t the decorating of ships that she traveled from Athenia for, in her carriage, behind the line of royals and nobles that had also left the main city for his event. Her husband and her children had been packed into the carriage with her and the entire family trundled along at a glacial pace, it felt. They’d managed to time their departure to be at the exact same time as the royal family, for really, where else could her husband be but where his benefactors were? There were no vile plots afoot, no wars, no nothing to keep them in the city. And, for her own part, there was no way on this wide earth that she would ever miss an event like this unless something catastrophic happened. No, she did not really care what the event was, whether it was the painting of ships or the worship of trees. She wouldn’t miss this because there were so many people to mingle with and speak to. The height of useful amusement.
Their carriage drew to a stop shortly after the royal one and she waited for her husband to step out first, then herself, then the children, and the nanny who was to watch her adorable cherubs. It wasn’t like she would have time to do that herself, nor the inclination. Adjusting her shimmering white himation and straightening the lavender skirts of her gown, she hazel eyes toward the harbor, where many, many ships were moored. She drew in a deep breath of salt air laced with the perfume of many others, and turned to her husband. “Shall we?” To the nanny, she said nothing at all. The woman knew her business, knew to keep the little ones entertained and out of mischief, but definitely on display in the most attractive light. After all, people needed to know her children existed and that they were beautiful children, educated, and well behaved. It spoke volumes for her husband’s reputation to have a perfect family.
Taking her husband’s arm, she walked with him at a sedate pace, away from the line of carriages, away from their children, toward the throng of people. Her gaze took in the royals up on the platform, with Adrestus of Nikolaos greeting them personally, along with his beautiful sister, Cyrene, and the rest of their family. She smiled faintly and kept walking, her attention wandering to the two Antonis siblings they were following. She admired the way that the two looked so cozy together and noted that, while the siblings were not always in complete agreement, they did have an amicable relationship.
As the golden siblings approached the gathered royals, Elysia and her husband Cicero did not immediately follow. She was always conscientious that they were not noble and though her husband worked directly for the king, it was not necessarily alright to simply approach without being summoned. What they definitely could do, was once the king looked in their direction, her husband bowed, she dipped down into a magnificent curtsey, and they were not summoned. This was then their cue that they had paid proper respect but were not needed, which was fine. If Cicero was taken up talking to the king all of the time, how could his ear be to the ground?
Releasing her husband’s arm, Elysia pressed her lips to his cheek and her hand grazed the small of his back. “I’ll see you later, darling,” she said lightly, leaving his side to do her job, as he did his. Hers was to mingle, to speak, to be the precious, innocent friend of so many. To this person and that, she said her hello’s, nodded her head, smiled. It was all so incredibly dull and she wished for something more exciting to happen.
Elysia drifted over to the sea wall, edging just out of Daniil of Marikas’s way, when the younger girl fell into the water. Everything happened so suddenly and within seconds, a blonde man she would be able to identify a few moments later as Lord Mateos fell on his stomach, shouting, and then men fell upon the lord’s legs, holding him as he struggled to get to Lady Daniil. “Well this is all very shocking,” Elysia said to herself in a way that was more curious than alarmed, as she leaned way over the wall to see exactly what was being done to rescue the girl. Though she was quite sure that Lady Daniil could swim, being this close to ships was dangerous.
As though to prove her wrong on whether the girl could swim, Lady Daniil sunk under the water, just out of Lord Mateos’s reach. “You’ll have to go lower, my lord,” Elysia called out, as though it was a simple thing to dangle a human body like a rope over the sea wall. “Lower him. She’s too far down,” she said to the servants holding the man’s legs. “Quickly, now.” Her voice never raised but she did snap her fingers imperiously, and this appeared to be enough for the servants to lower his lordship down to the water enough for the man’s hands to be totally submerged.
Unfortunately, Lady Daniil, in her struggle, had kicked away from the sea wall and was drifting more towards a Nikolaos ship than towards where her rescue could feasibly take place. “Does anyone have a rope?” Elysia turned, calling to the general sailing populace. “Surely some of you fall overboard from time to time. Can no one fetch her? You there, bring his lordship up. He looks like a tomato.”
No sooner had the guards decided to bring Lord Mateos up, that they pulled backward, his body pitched forward, and all the men who’d held his legs had now were the pants and boots of Lord Mateo, that had come off in their hands. Elysia pressed her lips together, watching with barely disguised amusement as the lord plunged head first into the water, without his bottoms, and then resurfaced, perfectly fine, but now also stuck in the same predicament as Lady Daniil, who was still splashing uselessly just a few feet away.
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Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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It wasn’t the decorating of ships that she traveled from Athenia for, in her carriage, behind the line of royals and nobles that had also left the main city for his event. Her husband and her children had been packed into the carriage with her and the entire family trundled along at a glacial pace, it felt. They’d managed to time their departure to be at the exact same time as the royal family, for really, where else could her husband be but where his benefactors were? There were no vile plots afoot, no wars, no nothing to keep them in the city. And, for her own part, there was no way on this wide earth that she would ever miss an event like this unless something catastrophic happened. No, she did not really care what the event was, whether it was the painting of ships or the worship of trees. She wouldn’t miss this because there were so many people to mingle with and speak to. The height of useful amusement.
Their carriage drew to a stop shortly after the royal one and she waited for her husband to step out first, then herself, then the children, and the nanny who was to watch her adorable cherubs. It wasn’t like she would have time to do that herself, nor the inclination. Adjusting her shimmering white himation and straightening the lavender skirts of her gown, she hazel eyes toward the harbor, where many, many ships were moored. She drew in a deep breath of salt air laced with the perfume of many others, and turned to her husband. “Shall we?” To the nanny, she said nothing at all. The woman knew her business, knew to keep the little ones entertained and out of mischief, but definitely on display in the most attractive light. After all, people needed to know her children existed and that they were beautiful children, educated, and well behaved. It spoke volumes for her husband’s reputation to have a perfect family.
Taking her husband’s arm, she walked with him at a sedate pace, away from the line of carriages, away from their children, toward the throng of people. Her gaze took in the royals up on the platform, with Adrestus of Nikolaos greeting them personally, along with his beautiful sister, Cyrene, and the rest of their family. She smiled faintly and kept walking, her attention wandering to the two Antonis siblings they were following. She admired the way that the two looked so cozy together and noted that, while the siblings were not always in complete agreement, they did have an amicable relationship.
As the golden siblings approached the gathered royals, Elysia and her husband Cicero did not immediately follow. She was always conscientious that they were not noble and though her husband worked directly for the king, it was not necessarily alright to simply approach without being summoned. What they definitely could do, was once the king looked in their direction, her husband bowed, she dipped down into a magnificent curtsey, and they were not summoned. This was then their cue that they had paid proper respect but were not needed, which was fine. If Cicero was taken up talking to the king all of the time, how could his ear be to the ground?
Releasing her husband’s arm, Elysia pressed her lips to his cheek and her hand grazed the small of his back. “I’ll see you later, darling,” she said lightly, leaving his side to do her job, as he did his. Hers was to mingle, to speak, to be the precious, innocent friend of so many. To this person and that, she said her hello’s, nodded her head, smiled. It was all so incredibly dull and she wished for something more exciting to happen.
Elysia drifted over to the sea wall, edging just out of Daniil of Marikas’s way, when the younger girl fell into the water. Everything happened so suddenly and within seconds, a blonde man she would be able to identify a few moments later as Lord Mateos fell on his stomach, shouting, and then men fell upon the lord’s legs, holding him as he struggled to get to Lady Daniil. “Well this is all very shocking,” Elysia said to herself in a way that was more curious than alarmed, as she leaned way over the wall to see exactly what was being done to rescue the girl. Though she was quite sure that Lady Daniil could swim, being this close to ships was dangerous.
As though to prove her wrong on whether the girl could swim, Lady Daniil sunk under the water, just out of Lord Mateos’s reach. “You’ll have to go lower, my lord,” Elysia called out, as though it was a simple thing to dangle a human body like a rope over the sea wall. “Lower him. She’s too far down,” she said to the servants holding the man’s legs. “Quickly, now.” Her voice never raised but she did snap her fingers imperiously, and this appeared to be enough for the servants to lower his lordship down to the water enough for the man’s hands to be totally submerged.
Unfortunately, Lady Daniil, in her struggle, had kicked away from the sea wall and was drifting more towards a Nikolaos ship than towards where her rescue could feasibly take place. “Does anyone have a rope?” Elysia turned, calling to the general sailing populace. “Surely some of you fall overboard from time to time. Can no one fetch her? You there, bring his lordship up. He looks like a tomato.”
No sooner had the guards decided to bring Lord Mateos up, that they pulled backward, his body pitched forward, and all the men who’d held his legs had now were the pants and boots of Lord Mateo, that had come off in their hands. Elysia pressed her lips together, watching with barely disguised amusement as the lord plunged head first into the water, without his bottoms, and then resurfaced, perfectly fine, but now also stuck in the same predicament as Lady Daniil, who was still splashing uselessly just a few feet away.
It wasn’t the decorating of ships that she traveled from Athenia for, in her carriage, behind the line of royals and nobles that had also left the main city for his event. Her husband and her children had been packed into the carriage with her and the entire family trundled along at a glacial pace, it felt. They’d managed to time their departure to be at the exact same time as the royal family, for really, where else could her husband be but where his benefactors were? There were no vile plots afoot, no wars, no nothing to keep them in the city. And, for her own part, there was no way on this wide earth that she would ever miss an event like this unless something catastrophic happened. No, she did not really care what the event was, whether it was the painting of ships or the worship of trees. She wouldn’t miss this because there were so many people to mingle with and speak to. The height of useful amusement.
Their carriage drew to a stop shortly after the royal one and she waited for her husband to step out first, then herself, then the children, and the nanny who was to watch her adorable cherubs. It wasn’t like she would have time to do that herself, nor the inclination. Adjusting her shimmering white himation and straightening the lavender skirts of her gown, she hazel eyes toward the harbor, where many, many ships were moored. She drew in a deep breath of salt air laced with the perfume of many others, and turned to her husband. “Shall we?” To the nanny, she said nothing at all. The woman knew her business, knew to keep the little ones entertained and out of mischief, but definitely on display in the most attractive light. After all, people needed to know her children existed and that they were beautiful children, educated, and well behaved. It spoke volumes for her husband’s reputation to have a perfect family.
Taking her husband’s arm, she walked with him at a sedate pace, away from the line of carriages, away from their children, toward the throng of people. Her gaze took in the royals up on the platform, with Adrestus of Nikolaos greeting them personally, along with his beautiful sister, Cyrene, and the rest of their family. She smiled faintly and kept walking, her attention wandering to the two Antonis siblings they were following. She admired the way that the two looked so cozy together and noted that, while the siblings were not always in complete agreement, they did have an amicable relationship.
As the golden siblings approached the gathered royals, Elysia and her husband Cicero did not immediately follow. She was always conscientious that they were not noble and though her husband worked directly for the king, it was not necessarily alright to simply approach without being summoned. What they definitely could do, was once the king looked in their direction, her husband bowed, she dipped down into a magnificent curtsey, and they were not summoned. This was then their cue that they had paid proper respect but were not needed, which was fine. If Cicero was taken up talking to the king all of the time, how could his ear be to the ground?
Releasing her husband’s arm, Elysia pressed her lips to his cheek and her hand grazed the small of his back. “I’ll see you later, darling,” she said lightly, leaving his side to do her job, as he did his. Hers was to mingle, to speak, to be the precious, innocent friend of so many. To this person and that, she said her hello’s, nodded her head, smiled. It was all so incredibly dull and she wished for something more exciting to happen.
Elysia drifted over to the sea wall, edging just out of Daniil of Marikas’s way, when the younger girl fell into the water. Everything happened so suddenly and within seconds, a blonde man she would be able to identify a few moments later as Lord Mateos fell on his stomach, shouting, and then men fell upon the lord’s legs, holding him as he struggled to get to Lady Daniil. “Well this is all very shocking,” Elysia said to herself in a way that was more curious than alarmed, as she leaned way over the wall to see exactly what was being done to rescue the girl. Though she was quite sure that Lady Daniil could swim, being this close to ships was dangerous.
As though to prove her wrong on whether the girl could swim, Lady Daniil sunk under the water, just out of Lord Mateos’s reach. “You’ll have to go lower, my lord,” Elysia called out, as though it was a simple thing to dangle a human body like a rope over the sea wall. “Lower him. She’s too far down,” she said to the servants holding the man’s legs. “Quickly, now.” Her voice never raised but she did snap her fingers imperiously, and this appeared to be enough for the servants to lower his lordship down to the water enough for the man’s hands to be totally submerged.
Unfortunately, Lady Daniil, in her struggle, had kicked away from the sea wall and was drifting more towards a Nikolaos ship than towards where her rescue could feasibly take place. “Does anyone have a rope?” Elysia turned, calling to the general sailing populace. “Surely some of you fall overboard from time to time. Can no one fetch her? You there, bring his lordship up. He looks like a tomato.”
No sooner had the guards decided to bring Lord Mateos up, that they pulled backward, his body pitched forward, and all the men who’d held his legs had now were the pants and boots of Lord Mateo, that had come off in their hands. Elysia pressed her lips together, watching with barely disguised amusement as the lord plunged head first into the water, without his bottoms, and then resurfaced, perfectly fine, but now also stuck in the same predicament as Lady Daniil, who was still splashing uselessly just a few feet away.
The young girl had trailed after her sister the whole time, as she was wont to do everytime she headed out together with Persephone. There was much Emilia had to learn, and she wasn't exactly a fantastic student. She had curtsied and exchanged pleasantries with the Nikolaos and Antonis as they approached Persephone, but her focus did not last long.
Partway through, Emilia had been distracted by the brightly colored ships for the event, not to mention the various merchants who had set up small stalls in order to take advantage of the large crowds coming to Magnestis to make some extra gold for the day.
Needless to say, within moments, Emilia had lost sight of Persephone when she finally realized she was no longer within the vicinity of her sister and the other nobility who had came to visit the event.
Freezing when Emilia noticed that not only was she quite a way from the harbor, but there now appeared to be an uproar there which the young brunette couldn't seem to get to due to the crowd at the harbor, Emilia's brain seemed to stall in its capacity to problem solve. It was a rare sight to see a young princess garbed in all her finery, and it was no doubt that Emilia stood out like a sore thumb, but there she was.
A lamb, quite lost in the crowds.
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The young girl had trailed after her sister the whole time, as she was wont to do everytime she headed out together with Persephone. There was much Emilia had to learn, and she wasn't exactly a fantastic student. She had curtsied and exchanged pleasantries with the Nikolaos and Antonis as they approached Persephone, but her focus did not last long.
Partway through, Emilia had been distracted by the brightly colored ships for the event, not to mention the various merchants who had set up small stalls in order to take advantage of the large crowds coming to Magnestis to make some extra gold for the day.
Needless to say, within moments, Emilia had lost sight of Persephone when she finally realized she was no longer within the vicinity of her sister and the other nobility who had came to visit the event.
Freezing when Emilia noticed that not only was she quite a way from the harbor, but there now appeared to be an uproar there which the young brunette couldn't seem to get to due to the crowd at the harbor, Emilia's brain seemed to stall in its capacity to problem solve. It was a rare sight to see a young princess garbed in all her finery, and it was no doubt that Emilia stood out like a sore thumb, but there she was.
A lamb, quite lost in the crowds.
The young girl had trailed after her sister the whole time, as she was wont to do everytime she headed out together with Persephone. There was much Emilia had to learn, and she wasn't exactly a fantastic student. She had curtsied and exchanged pleasantries with the Nikolaos and Antonis as they approached Persephone, but her focus did not last long.
Partway through, Emilia had been distracted by the brightly colored ships for the event, not to mention the various merchants who had set up small stalls in order to take advantage of the large crowds coming to Magnestis to make some extra gold for the day.
Needless to say, within moments, Emilia had lost sight of Persephone when she finally realized she was no longer within the vicinity of her sister and the other nobility who had came to visit the event.
Freezing when Emilia noticed that not only was she quite a way from the harbor, but there now appeared to be an uproar there which the young brunette couldn't seem to get to due to the crowd at the harbor, Emilia's brain seemed to stall in its capacity to problem solve. It was a rare sight to see a young princess garbed in all her finery, and it was no doubt that Emilia stood out like a sore thumb, but there she was.
A lamb, quite lost in the crowds.
Vasia could not abide by those females who fell to pieces at the slightest sign of trouble. She was her father’s daughter in that way, practical and no nonsense, and she could appreciate how the Princess Persephone had a similar outlook to her own. Of course, the Princess was governed more by the expectations of others than Vasia herself was. She knew it was a sore spot with Mateos just how outspoken she was willing to be if the situation called for it, but the Antonis lady would make no apologies for it. And she was certainly more useful in a situation such as this than those of a more delicate constitution who cowered back away from the edge of the quay.
The blonde spared a brief glance toward the other woman who joined them in trying to resolve the situation. Elysia of Aetea was a familiar enough face, and no doubt the lady’s husband would be in the vicinity too. Giving the woman a brief nod of greeting, Vasia had not much chance to do anything else before there was a sudden shout and the men who had been attempting to haul her brother back upright once again staggered backwards, sans Mateos but holding on to the Commander’s clothing and looking horrified that they had just dropped him into the harbour. They had dropped Mateos into the water.
“Oh my goodness!” Vasia exclaimed, half horrified for her poor brother’s dignity, and half fighting to smother the sisterly amusement at such a fate befalling him. She clapped a hand over her mouth to hide the grin that threatened, swallowed once and then took a breath. Now there were two people in the water. Edging close enough that she might see down to where Mateos had resurfaced, Vasia was heartened to see he had resurfaced, and knowing he was a strong swimmer, motioned for the men to go and meet her brother at the steps where he would no doubt take the Lady Daniil to.
“Well don’t just stand there” she said sharply to those men who had lost their grip upon the Commander. “Get down to the steps and aid Lord Mateos. Here take this” She thrust the himation she had gathered towards one of the men and shot a look at one of the others. “I daresay the Commander would also appreciate having his garments returned to him promptly when he emerges.”
Turning her head to look for the servant she had dispatched for a warm drink for Lady Daniil, Vasia narrowed her gaze as she tried to see through the throngs of people who tried to see what was going on. She did not find Sophia, but instead caught sight of the young Princess Emilia looking altogether lost.
“Your highness?” the question was directed towards Persephone who stood but a little way off “Would you like me to go to your sister? She looks a little ill at ease in these crowds”. She gestured towards where Princess Emilia could be seen. Of course, it was more a prompt for Persephone to go to her sister, if she so wished. Vasia would happily retrieve the Princess if Persephone so wished, but she wouldn’t presume to do so over her own sibling. Not to mention the fact that her own brother was…well, rather inconvenienced at this precise moment, and she did feel some sense of loyalty in remaining close to ensure he didn’t drown.
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Vasia could not abide by those females who fell to pieces at the slightest sign of trouble. She was her father’s daughter in that way, practical and no nonsense, and she could appreciate how the Princess Persephone had a similar outlook to her own. Of course, the Princess was governed more by the expectations of others than Vasia herself was. She knew it was a sore spot with Mateos just how outspoken she was willing to be if the situation called for it, but the Antonis lady would make no apologies for it. And she was certainly more useful in a situation such as this than those of a more delicate constitution who cowered back away from the edge of the quay.
The blonde spared a brief glance toward the other woman who joined them in trying to resolve the situation. Elysia of Aetea was a familiar enough face, and no doubt the lady’s husband would be in the vicinity too. Giving the woman a brief nod of greeting, Vasia had not much chance to do anything else before there was a sudden shout and the men who had been attempting to haul her brother back upright once again staggered backwards, sans Mateos but holding on to the Commander’s clothing and looking horrified that they had just dropped him into the harbour. They had dropped Mateos into the water.
“Oh my goodness!” Vasia exclaimed, half horrified for her poor brother’s dignity, and half fighting to smother the sisterly amusement at such a fate befalling him. She clapped a hand over her mouth to hide the grin that threatened, swallowed once and then took a breath. Now there were two people in the water. Edging close enough that she might see down to where Mateos had resurfaced, Vasia was heartened to see he had resurfaced, and knowing he was a strong swimmer, motioned for the men to go and meet her brother at the steps where he would no doubt take the Lady Daniil to.
“Well don’t just stand there” she said sharply to those men who had lost their grip upon the Commander. “Get down to the steps and aid Lord Mateos. Here take this” She thrust the himation she had gathered towards one of the men and shot a look at one of the others. “I daresay the Commander would also appreciate having his garments returned to him promptly when he emerges.”
Turning her head to look for the servant she had dispatched for a warm drink for Lady Daniil, Vasia narrowed her gaze as she tried to see through the throngs of people who tried to see what was going on. She did not find Sophia, but instead caught sight of the young Princess Emilia looking altogether lost.
“Your highness?” the question was directed towards Persephone who stood but a little way off “Would you like me to go to your sister? She looks a little ill at ease in these crowds”. She gestured towards where Princess Emilia could be seen. Of course, it was more a prompt for Persephone to go to her sister, if she so wished. Vasia would happily retrieve the Princess if Persephone so wished, but she wouldn’t presume to do so over her own sibling. Not to mention the fact that her own brother was…well, rather inconvenienced at this precise moment, and she did feel some sense of loyalty in remaining close to ensure he didn’t drown.
Vasia could not abide by those females who fell to pieces at the slightest sign of trouble. She was her father’s daughter in that way, practical and no nonsense, and she could appreciate how the Princess Persephone had a similar outlook to her own. Of course, the Princess was governed more by the expectations of others than Vasia herself was. She knew it was a sore spot with Mateos just how outspoken she was willing to be if the situation called for it, but the Antonis lady would make no apologies for it. And she was certainly more useful in a situation such as this than those of a more delicate constitution who cowered back away from the edge of the quay.
The blonde spared a brief glance toward the other woman who joined them in trying to resolve the situation. Elysia of Aetea was a familiar enough face, and no doubt the lady’s husband would be in the vicinity too. Giving the woman a brief nod of greeting, Vasia had not much chance to do anything else before there was a sudden shout and the men who had been attempting to haul her brother back upright once again staggered backwards, sans Mateos but holding on to the Commander’s clothing and looking horrified that they had just dropped him into the harbour. They had dropped Mateos into the water.
“Oh my goodness!” Vasia exclaimed, half horrified for her poor brother’s dignity, and half fighting to smother the sisterly amusement at such a fate befalling him. She clapped a hand over her mouth to hide the grin that threatened, swallowed once and then took a breath. Now there were two people in the water. Edging close enough that she might see down to where Mateos had resurfaced, Vasia was heartened to see he had resurfaced, and knowing he was a strong swimmer, motioned for the men to go and meet her brother at the steps where he would no doubt take the Lady Daniil to.
“Well don’t just stand there” she said sharply to those men who had lost their grip upon the Commander. “Get down to the steps and aid Lord Mateos. Here take this” She thrust the himation she had gathered towards one of the men and shot a look at one of the others. “I daresay the Commander would also appreciate having his garments returned to him promptly when he emerges.”
Turning her head to look for the servant she had dispatched for a warm drink for Lady Daniil, Vasia narrowed her gaze as she tried to see through the throngs of people who tried to see what was going on. She did not find Sophia, but instead caught sight of the young Princess Emilia looking altogether lost.
“Your highness?” the question was directed towards Persephone who stood but a little way off “Would you like me to go to your sister? She looks a little ill at ease in these crowds”. She gestured towards where Princess Emilia could be seen. Of course, it was more a prompt for Persephone to go to her sister, if she so wished. Vasia would happily retrieve the Princess if Persephone so wished, but she wouldn’t presume to do so over her own sibling. Not to mention the fact that her own brother was…well, rather inconvenienced at this precise moment, and she did feel some sense of loyalty in remaining close to ensure he didn’t drown.
Hebe fidgeted with the edge of her cornflower blue chiton as the carriage trundled down the road. Her parents were talking quietly with each other and her three sisters rode in the carriage behind them. She envied them their privacy, but it wasn't as if they would include her in their conversations anyway. Even though she was twelve now, they still treated her like a baby sometimes, especially Sanasa. And maybe it was a good thing she was traveling with her parents, because if Marietta and Evi started discussing academic subjects, her head would start spinning. If she got a headache she would have to go home before she got to see the decorated ships.
What would they look like, she wondered? Would there just be a bit of paint here and there or would they be nearly unrecognizable? What would happen to the decorations when the contest was over? Would the merchants keep them or would they remove all the festive adornments in favor of not being ridiculed when they sailed to other ports? Perhaps they would be complimented instead, depending how tasteful the embellishments were.
She also hoped that the visitors would be able to board the ships. Hebe had never been on one before and was curious as to what it would be like to feel the deck move beneath her feet. If her parents let her go to the Scholeio of the Arts in Taengea, the journey would be by sea, and she wanted to know beforehand whether she would get seasick. Would she be able to tell in such a short period of time? Still, she would like to try.
She could see the colorful sails from the window even before the carriage came to a stop. They were so pretty! She could hardly wait to see the rest. Once they had all disembarked they went to greet the King, and Hebe bobbed a rather awkward curtsy, glad that she didn't trip over her hem. Then they were off to look at the ships. Hebe breathed deeply of the salty air, always happy to be close to the sea. She wished she could go swimming but that was out of the question with so many people around
There was at least one ship that had obviously been commissioned by her family, and she could see that the other noble houses were represented as well. There were also some that looked like they had been transported from wonderful fantasy worlds and one of them had its sails painted to look like huge sparkly wings. The young girl's imagination ran wild as she created stories for them in her mind. What kind of people did they belong to? What kind of realm did they live in? Why had they come to Athenia? It was too bad that the merchants and sailors weren't required to dress in costumes that complimented their ships.
But who needed reality when fantasy was so much more fun? Hebe lost track of time as she strolled down the walkways, and at length she realized that her family was not with her anymore. Where had they gone? Did they know she was missing? She was so short that she would not be seen in the crowd. It was also difficult for her to look past shoulders and between arms as she attempted to locate them.
She knew they would find her eventually, and she didn't stand out among the other nobles. There was no need to worry about being attacked. Some of the courtiers were dressed far more extravagantly than she was. Her cornflower blue chiton was made of the finest silk, embroidered all over with iridescent thread in a flower pattern. A pearl was sewn into the center of each one. Fiblulae set with opals and pearls fastened it at her shoulders and the jewelry she wore was made of pearls and opals as well. The front strands of her chestnut hair had been braided with blue ribbons and tied in the back with a matching clasp to keep it out of her face. The rest of it cascaded down her back and bounced against her hips as she walked.
Among the throng, she spotted Princess Emilia standing alone. Why was she not with her sister and father? Had she too, become distracted by the vibrantly festooned ships? Hebe made her way to the other girl's side. “Hello, Your Highness,” she said with a bright smile. “The ships are all so pretty, are they not? Do you have a favorite?”
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Hebe fidgeted with the edge of her cornflower blue chiton as the carriage trundled down the road. Her parents were talking quietly with each other and her three sisters rode in the carriage behind them. She envied them their privacy, but it wasn't as if they would include her in their conversations anyway. Even though she was twelve now, they still treated her like a baby sometimes, especially Sanasa. And maybe it was a good thing she was traveling with her parents, because if Marietta and Evi started discussing academic subjects, her head would start spinning. If she got a headache she would have to go home before she got to see the decorated ships.
What would they look like, she wondered? Would there just be a bit of paint here and there or would they be nearly unrecognizable? What would happen to the decorations when the contest was over? Would the merchants keep them or would they remove all the festive adornments in favor of not being ridiculed when they sailed to other ports? Perhaps they would be complimented instead, depending how tasteful the embellishments were.
She also hoped that the visitors would be able to board the ships. Hebe had never been on one before and was curious as to what it would be like to feel the deck move beneath her feet. If her parents let her go to the Scholeio of the Arts in Taengea, the journey would be by sea, and she wanted to know beforehand whether she would get seasick. Would she be able to tell in such a short period of time? Still, she would like to try.
She could see the colorful sails from the window even before the carriage came to a stop. They were so pretty! She could hardly wait to see the rest. Once they had all disembarked they went to greet the King, and Hebe bobbed a rather awkward curtsy, glad that she didn't trip over her hem. Then they were off to look at the ships. Hebe breathed deeply of the salty air, always happy to be close to the sea. She wished she could go swimming but that was out of the question with so many people around
There was at least one ship that had obviously been commissioned by her family, and she could see that the other noble houses were represented as well. There were also some that looked like they had been transported from wonderful fantasy worlds and one of them had its sails painted to look like huge sparkly wings. The young girl's imagination ran wild as she created stories for them in her mind. What kind of people did they belong to? What kind of realm did they live in? Why had they come to Athenia? It was too bad that the merchants and sailors weren't required to dress in costumes that complimented their ships.
But who needed reality when fantasy was so much more fun? Hebe lost track of time as she strolled down the walkways, and at length she realized that her family was not with her anymore. Where had they gone? Did they know she was missing? She was so short that she would not be seen in the crowd. It was also difficult for her to look past shoulders and between arms as she attempted to locate them.
She knew they would find her eventually, and she didn't stand out among the other nobles. There was no need to worry about being attacked. Some of the courtiers were dressed far more extravagantly than she was. Her cornflower blue chiton was made of the finest silk, embroidered all over with iridescent thread in a flower pattern. A pearl was sewn into the center of each one. Fiblulae set with opals and pearls fastened it at her shoulders and the jewelry she wore was made of pearls and opals as well. The front strands of her chestnut hair had been braided with blue ribbons and tied in the back with a matching clasp to keep it out of her face. The rest of it cascaded down her back and bounced against her hips as she walked.
Among the throng, she spotted Princess Emilia standing alone. Why was she not with her sister and father? Had she too, become distracted by the vibrantly festooned ships? Hebe made her way to the other girl's side. “Hello, Your Highness,” she said with a bright smile. “The ships are all so pretty, are they not? Do you have a favorite?”
Hebe fidgeted with the edge of her cornflower blue chiton as the carriage trundled down the road. Her parents were talking quietly with each other and her three sisters rode in the carriage behind them. She envied them their privacy, but it wasn't as if they would include her in their conversations anyway. Even though she was twelve now, they still treated her like a baby sometimes, especially Sanasa. And maybe it was a good thing she was traveling with her parents, because if Marietta and Evi started discussing academic subjects, her head would start spinning. If she got a headache she would have to go home before she got to see the decorated ships.
What would they look like, she wondered? Would there just be a bit of paint here and there or would they be nearly unrecognizable? What would happen to the decorations when the contest was over? Would the merchants keep them or would they remove all the festive adornments in favor of not being ridiculed when they sailed to other ports? Perhaps they would be complimented instead, depending how tasteful the embellishments were.
She also hoped that the visitors would be able to board the ships. Hebe had never been on one before and was curious as to what it would be like to feel the deck move beneath her feet. If her parents let her go to the Scholeio of the Arts in Taengea, the journey would be by sea, and she wanted to know beforehand whether she would get seasick. Would she be able to tell in such a short period of time? Still, she would like to try.
She could see the colorful sails from the window even before the carriage came to a stop. They were so pretty! She could hardly wait to see the rest. Once they had all disembarked they went to greet the King, and Hebe bobbed a rather awkward curtsy, glad that she didn't trip over her hem. Then they were off to look at the ships. Hebe breathed deeply of the salty air, always happy to be close to the sea. She wished she could go swimming but that was out of the question with so many people around
There was at least one ship that had obviously been commissioned by her family, and she could see that the other noble houses were represented as well. There were also some that looked like they had been transported from wonderful fantasy worlds and one of them had its sails painted to look like huge sparkly wings. The young girl's imagination ran wild as she created stories for them in her mind. What kind of people did they belong to? What kind of realm did they live in? Why had they come to Athenia? It was too bad that the merchants and sailors weren't required to dress in costumes that complimented their ships.
But who needed reality when fantasy was so much more fun? Hebe lost track of time as she strolled down the walkways, and at length she realized that her family was not with her anymore. Where had they gone? Did they know she was missing? She was so short that she would not be seen in the crowd. It was also difficult for her to look past shoulders and between arms as she attempted to locate them.
She knew they would find her eventually, and she didn't stand out among the other nobles. There was no need to worry about being attacked. Some of the courtiers were dressed far more extravagantly than she was. Her cornflower blue chiton was made of the finest silk, embroidered all over with iridescent thread in a flower pattern. A pearl was sewn into the center of each one. Fiblulae set with opals and pearls fastened it at her shoulders and the jewelry she wore was made of pearls and opals as well. The front strands of her chestnut hair had been braided with blue ribbons and tied in the back with a matching clasp to keep it out of her face. The rest of it cascaded down her back and bounced against her hips as she walked.
Among the throng, she spotted Princess Emilia standing alone. Why was she not with her sister and father? Had she too, become distracted by the vibrantly festooned ships? Hebe made her way to the other girl's side. “Hello, Your Highness,” she said with a bright smile. “The ships are all so pretty, are they not? Do you have a favorite?”
The event was going nicely, and Adrestus was for sure in his comfort zone. His ship was looking elegant and clean, the best shape it has ever been just for the event. His family seemed happy today, and it was good to see that. He had welcomed the royals, and smiled at Persphone’s response. “It is good to be home,” He said warmly, glancing over at his younger sister. He was proud of his sister for speaking with confidence, though he knew she needed more experience talking with those higher in rank. He himself had practiced over the years, as he had to- he was heir after all. Adrestus smiled and nodded a greeting to Mateos- though feeling more awkward and a little out of character shy then anything to give him a proper greeting, and Vasia, before getting distracted with business involving the king.
He didn’t know how long he had been distracted away from the event, but it was a while.
When he came back, his eyes narrowed as what seemed to be a panic. He looked around for an answer to his unspoken question as to what had occurred. Everyone seemed to have their eyes peeled over the edge of the wall, into the water…. “Cyrene?” He spoke as he felt his heart beat a bit faster in worry, before he quickly moved through the crowds before gasping. “Poseidon help us,” He breathed before looking towards his ship. It seemed like nothing had been working, two in the water…. They didn’t have much time. “Sailors!” Adrestus suddenly bellowed, and his men sprang into action, as if they had been waiting for Adrestus to give orders all along. Some men were already on a Nikolaos ship, and hung over the side keeping an eye on the two in the water, as others untied some rope, and threw it to Adrestus, who caught it mid air. To Adrestus, people in the water was the worst case scenario, and had drilled his men on what to do if a man went overboard. Most times, they were a goner, but… sometimes you could actually save them. Not knowing how *long* Lord Mateos and Lady Daniil had been in the water, so he was quite worried. “Knots!” he ordered, and he and his men worked quickly with the rope. The knots were evenly placed along the rope, as a kind of makeshift ladder. Walking fast, Adrestus tied the rope to what he found to be stable, and made a Bowline. “Everyone, take 10 steps back.” He ordered, not needing anyone else to fall into the water.
Using the rope, Adrestus climbed down. He gripped the rope hard, and used the knots to make sure he didn’t slip into the water himself. Once he was close enough to the water, he planted his feet against the wall, and used the rest of the rope by wrapping it and tying it to his ankle. Once he pulled it to make sure the rope wouldn’t come loose, he slowly eased himself into the water. He didn’t have much time.
It was blistering cold as the water went through the materials of his clothes, but he ignored that as he forcefully pulled Mateos to the wall, wanting him to hang on to the rope that was holding Adrestus tight. He gasped as much air as he could, and holding his breath, he disappeared into the water. A few minutes passed. He emerged coughing up a storm, but holding Danill by her elbow. He pulled himself back to the wall, before wrapping his arms around Danill to get more of a hold on her. He looked towards Mateos. “Just hang on to me.” In his mind, he suddenly remembered Mateos as a kid. Or, how he remembered him. They had been friends as kids, and….. He quickly tried not to think about it. He focused on his mission. And with that, Adrestus started climbing, Danill in his arm and Mateos behind him. He cursed himself that he hadn’t been keeping his strength up, as climbing the rope was more effort than he thought it would be. He prayed to Poseidon to help him as he continued to climb, the knots helping his fingers keep their grip.
By the time he was almost to the edge of the wall, he lifted Danill, hoping someone would grab her, or she would come to and lift herself up to solid ground. He of course still had to go back down to save Mateos.
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The event was going nicely, and Adrestus was for sure in his comfort zone. His ship was looking elegant and clean, the best shape it has ever been just for the event. His family seemed happy today, and it was good to see that. He had welcomed the royals, and smiled at Persphone’s response. “It is good to be home,” He said warmly, glancing over at his younger sister. He was proud of his sister for speaking with confidence, though he knew she needed more experience talking with those higher in rank. He himself had practiced over the years, as he had to- he was heir after all. Adrestus smiled and nodded a greeting to Mateos- though feeling more awkward and a little out of character shy then anything to give him a proper greeting, and Vasia, before getting distracted with business involving the king.
He didn’t know how long he had been distracted away from the event, but it was a while.
When he came back, his eyes narrowed as what seemed to be a panic. He looked around for an answer to his unspoken question as to what had occurred. Everyone seemed to have their eyes peeled over the edge of the wall, into the water…. “Cyrene?” He spoke as he felt his heart beat a bit faster in worry, before he quickly moved through the crowds before gasping. “Poseidon help us,” He breathed before looking towards his ship. It seemed like nothing had been working, two in the water…. They didn’t have much time. “Sailors!” Adrestus suddenly bellowed, and his men sprang into action, as if they had been waiting for Adrestus to give orders all along. Some men were already on a Nikolaos ship, and hung over the side keeping an eye on the two in the water, as others untied some rope, and threw it to Adrestus, who caught it mid air. To Adrestus, people in the water was the worst case scenario, and had drilled his men on what to do if a man went overboard. Most times, they were a goner, but… sometimes you could actually save them. Not knowing how *long* Lord Mateos and Lady Daniil had been in the water, so he was quite worried. “Knots!” he ordered, and he and his men worked quickly with the rope. The knots were evenly placed along the rope, as a kind of makeshift ladder. Walking fast, Adrestus tied the rope to what he found to be stable, and made a Bowline. “Everyone, take 10 steps back.” He ordered, not needing anyone else to fall into the water.
Using the rope, Adrestus climbed down. He gripped the rope hard, and used the knots to make sure he didn’t slip into the water himself. Once he was close enough to the water, he planted his feet against the wall, and used the rest of the rope by wrapping it and tying it to his ankle. Once he pulled it to make sure the rope wouldn’t come loose, he slowly eased himself into the water. He didn’t have much time.
It was blistering cold as the water went through the materials of his clothes, but he ignored that as he forcefully pulled Mateos to the wall, wanting him to hang on to the rope that was holding Adrestus tight. He gasped as much air as he could, and holding his breath, he disappeared into the water. A few minutes passed. He emerged coughing up a storm, but holding Danill by her elbow. He pulled himself back to the wall, before wrapping his arms around Danill to get more of a hold on her. He looked towards Mateos. “Just hang on to me.” In his mind, he suddenly remembered Mateos as a kid. Or, how he remembered him. They had been friends as kids, and….. He quickly tried not to think about it. He focused on his mission. And with that, Adrestus started climbing, Danill in his arm and Mateos behind him. He cursed himself that he hadn’t been keeping his strength up, as climbing the rope was more effort than he thought it would be. He prayed to Poseidon to help him as he continued to climb, the knots helping his fingers keep their grip.
By the time he was almost to the edge of the wall, he lifted Danill, hoping someone would grab her, or she would come to and lift herself up to solid ground. He of course still had to go back down to save Mateos.
The event was going nicely, and Adrestus was for sure in his comfort zone. His ship was looking elegant and clean, the best shape it has ever been just for the event. His family seemed happy today, and it was good to see that. He had welcomed the royals, and smiled at Persphone’s response. “It is good to be home,” He said warmly, glancing over at his younger sister. He was proud of his sister for speaking with confidence, though he knew she needed more experience talking with those higher in rank. He himself had practiced over the years, as he had to- he was heir after all. Adrestus smiled and nodded a greeting to Mateos- though feeling more awkward and a little out of character shy then anything to give him a proper greeting, and Vasia, before getting distracted with business involving the king.
He didn’t know how long he had been distracted away from the event, but it was a while.
When he came back, his eyes narrowed as what seemed to be a panic. He looked around for an answer to his unspoken question as to what had occurred. Everyone seemed to have their eyes peeled over the edge of the wall, into the water…. “Cyrene?” He spoke as he felt his heart beat a bit faster in worry, before he quickly moved through the crowds before gasping. “Poseidon help us,” He breathed before looking towards his ship. It seemed like nothing had been working, two in the water…. They didn’t have much time. “Sailors!” Adrestus suddenly bellowed, and his men sprang into action, as if they had been waiting for Adrestus to give orders all along. Some men were already on a Nikolaos ship, and hung over the side keeping an eye on the two in the water, as others untied some rope, and threw it to Adrestus, who caught it mid air. To Adrestus, people in the water was the worst case scenario, and had drilled his men on what to do if a man went overboard. Most times, they were a goner, but… sometimes you could actually save them. Not knowing how *long* Lord Mateos and Lady Daniil had been in the water, so he was quite worried. “Knots!” he ordered, and he and his men worked quickly with the rope. The knots were evenly placed along the rope, as a kind of makeshift ladder. Walking fast, Adrestus tied the rope to what he found to be stable, and made a Bowline. “Everyone, take 10 steps back.” He ordered, not needing anyone else to fall into the water.
Using the rope, Adrestus climbed down. He gripped the rope hard, and used the knots to make sure he didn’t slip into the water himself. Once he was close enough to the water, he planted his feet against the wall, and used the rest of the rope by wrapping it and tying it to his ankle. Once he pulled it to make sure the rope wouldn’t come loose, he slowly eased himself into the water. He didn’t have much time.
It was blistering cold as the water went through the materials of his clothes, but he ignored that as he forcefully pulled Mateos to the wall, wanting him to hang on to the rope that was holding Adrestus tight. He gasped as much air as he could, and holding his breath, he disappeared into the water. A few minutes passed. He emerged coughing up a storm, but holding Danill by her elbow. He pulled himself back to the wall, before wrapping his arms around Danill to get more of a hold on her. He looked towards Mateos. “Just hang on to me.” In his mind, he suddenly remembered Mateos as a kid. Or, how he remembered him. They had been friends as kids, and….. He quickly tried not to think about it. He focused on his mission. And with that, Adrestus started climbing, Danill in his arm and Mateos behind him. He cursed himself that he hadn’t been keeping his strength up, as climbing the rope was more effort than he thought it would be. He prayed to Poseidon to help him as he continued to climb, the knots helping his fingers keep their grip.
By the time he was almost to the edge of the wall, he lifted Danill, hoping someone would grab her, or she would come to and lift herself up to solid ground. He of course still had to go back down to save Mateos.
Princess Persephone was in a clear position of advantage as the situation at the dockside escalated. Whilst she was a woman restrained by her position and unable to do anything such as step forward and grab ahold of people or rope or guardsmen the way that others - specifically men - might be able to, she was at least a royal lady who was given space to think and watch as others of her nation stepped around the commotion attempting to see those who were its victims returned to solid ground.
She witnessed as Lord Mateos went to aid the Lady Daniil, then as Lady Elysia attempted to help by insisting that the Antonis General was to be lowered still further. Then there was a horrendous splash as Lord Mateos became a secondary individual to be rescued from the sea (but at least a conscious one) and the Lady Vasia ordered the guardsmen to meet her brother and his damsel in distress by the stone steps a little way off.
Persephone was in complete agreement of this plan, but it seemed not to be viable as the guards rushed to aid the lord at the steps but were met with nothing and no-one.
Seeking answers as to what was going on from one of her men, Persephone was quickly informed that the Lord Mateos was struggling to move with Lady Daniil. Suspecting that this had something to do with the layers of dress and gown that the woman had been wearing when she had tumbled over the side of the docks and into the water, Persephone could easily believe that even a man of Lord Mateos' strength would find it near impossible to swim himself, his own armour and garb, the unconscious body of Lady Daniil and the yards of saturated silk that floated around her, passed the bellies of multiple ships until he could reach the stone steps. A good plan that she had been supportive of, it looked as if a new one was required.
It was at that moment that the Lord Adrestus reappeared in order to take his position as eldest son of the baron of Magnestis and see to the situation at hand. With quick orders, he followed the Lady Elysia's suggestion of a rope and had it constructed carefully into some sort of single strand ladder that was then thrown over the side of the harbour wall.
Concerned for how long the Lady Daniil had been within the water - however cool it might have been at this time of year - Persephone made quick instructions as soon as she witnessed the dripping hand of the young girl lifted by Lord Mateos towards the edge of the docks.
Realising that the Antonis lord had succeeding in holding onto the Lady Daniil as the rope was pulled back, lifting the two of the towards solid land once more, Persephone was quick to dispatch those around her in a gentle but firm tone of voice that carried her suggestions as commands.
"If you would please, Lady Vasia." Persephone answered, when she queried regarding her own sister. She could see that Vasia's cousin Hebe was now speaking with the youngest princess and the last thing they needed was two more young noble ladies in some form of jeopardy. "If you would see that she is escorted to the staging for the judging, I would be most appreciative."
She then turned to the Lady Cyrene.
"Lady Nikolaos, perhaps you would be able to escort the Lady Daniil back to your home and ensure that her injuries and attire are taken care of?" The Nikolaos house was the closest available and the young woman could easily return in a few hours to enjoy the festivities. And the Lady Daniil would need to be seen to. "A letter to the Marikas household by express rider would see that she is collected before nightfall I am sure."
For the Lord Mateos, who was at less risk of shame as a man than woman, and would be able to change attire with greater ease somewhere nearby, fewer concessions needed to be made.
Moving just a few steps over to the right where she could speak with the other noble lady of the situation, Persephone's lips twisted in chastising amusement.
"Any further grand advice to offer, Lady Elysia?" Persephone asked with a tone of innocence. "I am concerned that you seem rather amused by all of this..."
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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Princess Persephone was in a clear position of advantage as the situation at the dockside escalated. Whilst she was a woman restrained by her position and unable to do anything such as step forward and grab ahold of people or rope or guardsmen the way that others - specifically men - might be able to, she was at least a royal lady who was given space to think and watch as others of her nation stepped around the commotion attempting to see those who were its victims returned to solid ground.
She witnessed as Lord Mateos went to aid the Lady Daniil, then as Lady Elysia attempted to help by insisting that the Antonis General was to be lowered still further. Then there was a horrendous splash as Lord Mateos became a secondary individual to be rescued from the sea (but at least a conscious one) and the Lady Vasia ordered the guardsmen to meet her brother and his damsel in distress by the stone steps a little way off.
Persephone was in complete agreement of this plan, but it seemed not to be viable as the guards rushed to aid the lord at the steps but were met with nothing and no-one.
Seeking answers as to what was going on from one of her men, Persephone was quickly informed that the Lord Mateos was struggling to move with Lady Daniil. Suspecting that this had something to do with the layers of dress and gown that the woman had been wearing when she had tumbled over the side of the docks and into the water, Persephone could easily believe that even a man of Lord Mateos' strength would find it near impossible to swim himself, his own armour and garb, the unconscious body of Lady Daniil and the yards of saturated silk that floated around her, passed the bellies of multiple ships until he could reach the stone steps. A good plan that she had been supportive of, it looked as if a new one was required.
It was at that moment that the Lord Adrestus reappeared in order to take his position as eldest son of the baron of Magnestis and see to the situation at hand. With quick orders, he followed the Lady Elysia's suggestion of a rope and had it constructed carefully into some sort of single strand ladder that was then thrown over the side of the harbour wall.
Concerned for how long the Lady Daniil had been within the water - however cool it might have been at this time of year - Persephone made quick instructions as soon as she witnessed the dripping hand of the young girl lifted by Lord Mateos towards the edge of the docks.
Realising that the Antonis lord had succeeding in holding onto the Lady Daniil as the rope was pulled back, lifting the two of the towards solid land once more, Persephone was quick to dispatch those around her in a gentle but firm tone of voice that carried her suggestions as commands.
"If you would please, Lady Vasia." Persephone answered, when she queried regarding her own sister. She could see that Vasia's cousin Hebe was now speaking with the youngest princess and the last thing they needed was two more young noble ladies in some form of jeopardy. "If you would see that she is escorted to the staging for the judging, I would be most appreciative."
She then turned to the Lady Cyrene.
"Lady Nikolaos, perhaps you would be able to escort the Lady Daniil back to your home and ensure that her injuries and attire are taken care of?" The Nikolaos house was the closest available and the young woman could easily return in a few hours to enjoy the festivities. And the Lady Daniil would need to be seen to. "A letter to the Marikas household by express rider would see that she is collected before nightfall I am sure."
For the Lord Mateos, who was at less risk of shame as a man than woman, and would be able to change attire with greater ease somewhere nearby, fewer concessions needed to be made.
Moving just a few steps over to the right where she could speak with the other noble lady of the situation, Persephone's lips twisted in chastising amusement.
"Any further grand advice to offer, Lady Elysia?" Persephone asked with a tone of innocence. "I am concerned that you seem rather amused by all of this..."
Princess Persephone was in a clear position of advantage as the situation at the dockside escalated. Whilst she was a woman restrained by her position and unable to do anything such as step forward and grab ahold of people or rope or guardsmen the way that others - specifically men - might be able to, she was at least a royal lady who was given space to think and watch as others of her nation stepped around the commotion attempting to see those who were its victims returned to solid ground.
She witnessed as Lord Mateos went to aid the Lady Daniil, then as Lady Elysia attempted to help by insisting that the Antonis General was to be lowered still further. Then there was a horrendous splash as Lord Mateos became a secondary individual to be rescued from the sea (but at least a conscious one) and the Lady Vasia ordered the guardsmen to meet her brother and his damsel in distress by the stone steps a little way off.
Persephone was in complete agreement of this plan, but it seemed not to be viable as the guards rushed to aid the lord at the steps but were met with nothing and no-one.
Seeking answers as to what was going on from one of her men, Persephone was quickly informed that the Lord Mateos was struggling to move with Lady Daniil. Suspecting that this had something to do with the layers of dress and gown that the woman had been wearing when she had tumbled over the side of the docks and into the water, Persephone could easily believe that even a man of Lord Mateos' strength would find it near impossible to swim himself, his own armour and garb, the unconscious body of Lady Daniil and the yards of saturated silk that floated around her, passed the bellies of multiple ships until he could reach the stone steps. A good plan that she had been supportive of, it looked as if a new one was required.
It was at that moment that the Lord Adrestus reappeared in order to take his position as eldest son of the baron of Magnestis and see to the situation at hand. With quick orders, he followed the Lady Elysia's suggestion of a rope and had it constructed carefully into some sort of single strand ladder that was then thrown over the side of the harbour wall.
Concerned for how long the Lady Daniil had been within the water - however cool it might have been at this time of year - Persephone made quick instructions as soon as she witnessed the dripping hand of the young girl lifted by Lord Mateos towards the edge of the docks.
Realising that the Antonis lord had succeeding in holding onto the Lady Daniil as the rope was pulled back, lifting the two of the towards solid land once more, Persephone was quick to dispatch those around her in a gentle but firm tone of voice that carried her suggestions as commands.
"If you would please, Lady Vasia." Persephone answered, when she queried regarding her own sister. She could see that Vasia's cousin Hebe was now speaking with the youngest princess and the last thing they needed was two more young noble ladies in some form of jeopardy. "If you would see that she is escorted to the staging for the judging, I would be most appreciative."
She then turned to the Lady Cyrene.
"Lady Nikolaos, perhaps you would be able to escort the Lady Daniil back to your home and ensure that her injuries and attire are taken care of?" The Nikolaos house was the closest available and the young woman could easily return in a few hours to enjoy the festivities. And the Lady Daniil would need to be seen to. "A letter to the Marikas household by express rider would see that she is collected before nightfall I am sure."
For the Lord Mateos, who was at less risk of shame as a man than woman, and would be able to change attire with greater ease somewhere nearby, fewer concessions needed to be made.
Moving just a few steps over to the right where she could speak with the other noble lady of the situation, Persephone's lips twisted in chastising amusement.
"Any further grand advice to offer, Lady Elysia?" Persephone asked with a tone of innocence. "I am concerned that you seem rather amused by all of this..."
Just a bit closer...
Mateos' outstretched arms hung above the surface of the water, just short of where the Lady Daniil flailed below him. He grimaced and strained harder, egged on by her panicked spluttering as the Lady fought to stay afloat despite her many waterlogged fabrics threatening to drag her under.
He needed to go lower. However, it seemed as though a certain spectator was just as attuned to his predicament, as he heard the order to drop him lower being announced before he could deliver the line himself.
"Keep fighting, My Lady! Just a bit lower..."
The guards gripping his legs were successful in closing the gap between him and the water's surface, with Mateos' hands now plunging into the frigid waters below. Unfortunately, he was too late, as the Lady had apparently succumbed to her attire as the water's current pulled her under and away from the wall. Damn it! he thought. He knew he would have to act fast; cold waters and the threat of shock in addition to the Lady Daniil's copious amounts of regalia (not unlike the garments that most other women decided to fetter their bodies with despite their obvious impracticality in situations such as the one they found themselves in now; why was it that females always seemed so wrapped up - literally, in this case - in their own appearances that they ostensibly endangered their own wellbeing? The day's festivities were held around the ocean, even the most inept of strategists would be reprimanded for the lack of thoug--
Splash!
Mateos' thoughts were cut short as he suddenly found himself upended in the water alongside the Lady Daniil, apparently wearing significantly less clothing than his female counterpart upon seeing what remained in the hands of the guards atop the seawall. At least they didn't let go... This fact did not shake the man's resolve, however, as he quickly batted the Lady's garments out of him way and succeeded in scooping her into his arms to keep her head above water. She did not struggle in his arms, whether from loss of consciousness or exhaustion he could not tell, but she was still breathing.
For now.
Now dead in the water himself, it was all he could do to continue to tread water and keep the Lady afloat so as not to become even more of a liability. It was a miracle that she was able to swim for as long as she did dressed the way she was, considering that he had effectively tripled his body weight simply by taking her in his arms. He knew he would not have to hold her for long, however, for a familiar voice had erupted above him.
Adrestus, of all men, had appeared on the wall with a rope in his hands. The gods! It was one of the few times in his many years of service that his composure threatened to crack. Almost. Thankfully, all eyes were on Adrestus as he began the process of lowering himself off the wall, and the chill of the surrounding water cooled his face.
He had a damsel in distress in hands, after all. This was strictly business.
He continued to hold the girl as the man paddled closer, taking the rope in one hand as instructed and allowed Adrestus to pull the duo back towards the wall.
Although he managed to keep his visage as stony as ever, the swirl of emotions he felt under the mask threatened to overwhelm him. How had he not noticed Adrestus? Maybe he just arrived in the nick of time? Or, perhaps, he had seen him and was intentionally avoiding him until the accident made confrontation unavoidable. How many years had it been?
The wall must have been further away than it appeared, either that or Adrestus was slow in tugging their combined weight towards the shore, for Mateos' emotional squall only swirled stronger in the minutes - no, hours, it must have been - it took the man with the rope to stop pulling. Relieved to have a task at hand to focus on once more, Mateos moved to transfer Lady Daniil's relatively motionless form to Adrestus's arms when he noticed she felt conceivably lighter than before.
Much too light.
With horror, he realized that somewhere along that torturous ride towards the wall that a layer of fabric had torn loose from her garments and was all that remained of the Lady in his arms. Fortunately, Adrestus, seemingly in a much clearer state of mind than Mateos was in currently, spotted her almost immediately and executed a successful dive to haul her back towards the surface. Once again thankful for the cooling effects of the sea, Mateos burned with shame and confusion and prayed that the spectators were much too busy with readying for the Lady Daniil's return to the surface to notice his potentially fatal mistake.
He never made mistakes.
He could only watch Adrestus haul Lady Daniil towards the rope and begin the arduous task of hoisting her to safety when, in the first words that he had heard from the man in years, he spoke: 'Hold onto me.' His breath caught in his chest, and he paused, scared by the prospect of what the man's skin under his fingers would bring back but terrified of the implications that refusing to comply with th-
He was talking to Lady Daniil. Of course. She was conscious, he saw now, as she returned the hold on her rescuer. He was speaking to Lady Daniil. She was awake. Of course.
Mateos' hands trembled as he took the rope in his own hands, and not just from the icy sea, as he hauled himself partially out of the water. His arms shook from exhaustion in several forms, but stonefaced as ever, the Statue's unyielding will to mask every fissure in his demeanor with sheer strength was enough to hoist himself up the rope after Adrestus and wait for the man to return first the Lady and then himself to land. He clutched so strongly to his composure that he refused to allow the man's touch to reignite the blaze of emotions that just moments earlier had threatened to consume him before the ocean could drown him, and within seconds his feet were planted firmly on land. Almost immediately he strode towards the guards that still possessed the lower half of his wardrobe, relieved to be out of the clutches of the crowd of women that had proceeded to surround the Lady Daniil to protect her modesty. He cared not for the chill of wet clothes, nor for the prospect of modesty that no soldier cared for, but out of respect for the womenfolk present he conceded to the guards' insistence of encircling him so he could change relatively out of sight of the females. He took his time donning fresh clothes; he was in no hurry to return to the concerned crowds outside the safety of his wall of guards, nor to face Adrestus again.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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Just a bit closer...
Mateos' outstretched arms hung above the surface of the water, just short of where the Lady Daniil flailed below him. He grimaced and strained harder, egged on by her panicked spluttering as the Lady fought to stay afloat despite her many waterlogged fabrics threatening to drag her under.
He needed to go lower. However, it seemed as though a certain spectator was just as attuned to his predicament, as he heard the order to drop him lower being announced before he could deliver the line himself.
"Keep fighting, My Lady! Just a bit lower..."
The guards gripping his legs were successful in closing the gap between him and the water's surface, with Mateos' hands now plunging into the frigid waters below. Unfortunately, he was too late, as the Lady had apparently succumbed to her attire as the water's current pulled her under and away from the wall. Damn it! he thought. He knew he would have to act fast; cold waters and the threat of shock in addition to the Lady Daniil's copious amounts of regalia (not unlike the garments that most other women decided to fetter their bodies with despite their obvious impracticality in situations such as the one they found themselves in now; why was it that females always seemed so wrapped up - literally, in this case - in their own appearances that they ostensibly endangered their own wellbeing? The day's festivities were held around the ocean, even the most inept of strategists would be reprimanded for the lack of thoug--
Splash!
Mateos' thoughts were cut short as he suddenly found himself upended in the water alongside the Lady Daniil, apparently wearing significantly less clothing than his female counterpart upon seeing what remained in the hands of the guards atop the seawall. At least they didn't let go... This fact did not shake the man's resolve, however, as he quickly batted the Lady's garments out of him way and succeeded in scooping her into his arms to keep her head above water. She did not struggle in his arms, whether from loss of consciousness or exhaustion he could not tell, but she was still breathing.
For now.
Now dead in the water himself, it was all he could do to continue to tread water and keep the Lady afloat so as not to become even more of a liability. It was a miracle that she was able to swim for as long as she did dressed the way she was, considering that he had effectively tripled his body weight simply by taking her in his arms. He knew he would not have to hold her for long, however, for a familiar voice had erupted above him.
Adrestus, of all men, had appeared on the wall with a rope in his hands. The gods! It was one of the few times in his many years of service that his composure threatened to crack. Almost. Thankfully, all eyes were on Adrestus as he began the process of lowering himself off the wall, and the chill of the surrounding water cooled his face.
He had a damsel in distress in hands, after all. This was strictly business.
He continued to hold the girl as the man paddled closer, taking the rope in one hand as instructed and allowed Adrestus to pull the duo back towards the wall.
Although he managed to keep his visage as stony as ever, the swirl of emotions he felt under the mask threatened to overwhelm him. How had he not noticed Adrestus? Maybe he just arrived in the nick of time? Or, perhaps, he had seen him and was intentionally avoiding him until the accident made confrontation unavoidable. How many years had it been?
The wall must have been further away than it appeared, either that or Adrestus was slow in tugging their combined weight towards the shore, for Mateos' emotional squall only swirled stronger in the minutes - no, hours, it must have been - it took the man with the rope to stop pulling. Relieved to have a task at hand to focus on once more, Mateos moved to transfer Lady Daniil's relatively motionless form to Adrestus's arms when he noticed she felt conceivably lighter than before.
Much too light.
With horror, he realized that somewhere along that torturous ride towards the wall that a layer of fabric had torn loose from her garments and was all that remained of the Lady in his arms. Fortunately, Adrestus, seemingly in a much clearer state of mind than Mateos was in currently, spotted her almost immediately and executed a successful dive to haul her back towards the surface. Once again thankful for the cooling effects of the sea, Mateos burned with shame and confusion and prayed that the spectators were much too busy with readying for the Lady Daniil's return to the surface to notice his potentially fatal mistake.
He never made mistakes.
He could only watch Adrestus haul Lady Daniil towards the rope and begin the arduous task of hoisting her to safety when, in the first words that he had heard from the man in years, he spoke: 'Hold onto me.' His breath caught in his chest, and he paused, scared by the prospect of what the man's skin under his fingers would bring back but terrified of the implications that refusing to comply with th-
He was talking to Lady Daniil. Of course. She was conscious, he saw now, as she returned the hold on her rescuer. He was speaking to Lady Daniil. She was awake. Of course.
Mateos' hands trembled as he took the rope in his own hands, and not just from the icy sea, as he hauled himself partially out of the water. His arms shook from exhaustion in several forms, but stonefaced as ever, the Statue's unyielding will to mask every fissure in his demeanor with sheer strength was enough to hoist himself up the rope after Adrestus and wait for the man to return first the Lady and then himself to land. He clutched so strongly to his composure that he refused to allow the man's touch to reignite the blaze of emotions that just moments earlier had threatened to consume him before the ocean could drown him, and within seconds his feet were planted firmly on land. Almost immediately he strode towards the guards that still possessed the lower half of his wardrobe, relieved to be out of the clutches of the crowd of women that had proceeded to surround the Lady Daniil to protect her modesty. He cared not for the chill of wet clothes, nor for the prospect of modesty that no soldier cared for, but out of respect for the womenfolk present he conceded to the guards' insistence of encircling him so he could change relatively out of sight of the females. He took his time donning fresh clothes; he was in no hurry to return to the concerned crowds outside the safety of his wall of guards, nor to face Adrestus again.
Just a bit closer...
Mateos' outstretched arms hung above the surface of the water, just short of where the Lady Daniil flailed below him. He grimaced and strained harder, egged on by her panicked spluttering as the Lady fought to stay afloat despite her many waterlogged fabrics threatening to drag her under.
He needed to go lower. However, it seemed as though a certain spectator was just as attuned to his predicament, as he heard the order to drop him lower being announced before he could deliver the line himself.
"Keep fighting, My Lady! Just a bit lower..."
The guards gripping his legs were successful in closing the gap between him and the water's surface, with Mateos' hands now plunging into the frigid waters below. Unfortunately, he was too late, as the Lady had apparently succumbed to her attire as the water's current pulled her under and away from the wall. Damn it! he thought. He knew he would have to act fast; cold waters and the threat of shock in addition to the Lady Daniil's copious amounts of regalia (not unlike the garments that most other women decided to fetter their bodies with despite their obvious impracticality in situations such as the one they found themselves in now; why was it that females always seemed so wrapped up - literally, in this case - in their own appearances that they ostensibly endangered their own wellbeing? The day's festivities were held around the ocean, even the most inept of strategists would be reprimanded for the lack of thoug--
Splash!
Mateos' thoughts were cut short as he suddenly found himself upended in the water alongside the Lady Daniil, apparently wearing significantly less clothing than his female counterpart upon seeing what remained in the hands of the guards atop the seawall. At least they didn't let go... This fact did not shake the man's resolve, however, as he quickly batted the Lady's garments out of him way and succeeded in scooping her into his arms to keep her head above water. She did not struggle in his arms, whether from loss of consciousness or exhaustion he could not tell, but she was still breathing.
For now.
Now dead in the water himself, it was all he could do to continue to tread water and keep the Lady afloat so as not to become even more of a liability. It was a miracle that she was able to swim for as long as she did dressed the way she was, considering that he had effectively tripled his body weight simply by taking her in his arms. He knew he would not have to hold her for long, however, for a familiar voice had erupted above him.
Adrestus, of all men, had appeared on the wall with a rope in his hands. The gods! It was one of the few times in his many years of service that his composure threatened to crack. Almost. Thankfully, all eyes were on Adrestus as he began the process of lowering himself off the wall, and the chill of the surrounding water cooled his face.
He had a damsel in distress in hands, after all. This was strictly business.
He continued to hold the girl as the man paddled closer, taking the rope in one hand as instructed and allowed Adrestus to pull the duo back towards the wall.
Although he managed to keep his visage as stony as ever, the swirl of emotions he felt under the mask threatened to overwhelm him. How had he not noticed Adrestus? Maybe he just arrived in the nick of time? Or, perhaps, he had seen him and was intentionally avoiding him until the accident made confrontation unavoidable. How many years had it been?
The wall must have been further away than it appeared, either that or Adrestus was slow in tugging their combined weight towards the shore, for Mateos' emotional squall only swirled stronger in the minutes - no, hours, it must have been - it took the man with the rope to stop pulling. Relieved to have a task at hand to focus on once more, Mateos moved to transfer Lady Daniil's relatively motionless form to Adrestus's arms when he noticed she felt conceivably lighter than before.
Much too light.
With horror, he realized that somewhere along that torturous ride towards the wall that a layer of fabric had torn loose from her garments and was all that remained of the Lady in his arms. Fortunately, Adrestus, seemingly in a much clearer state of mind than Mateos was in currently, spotted her almost immediately and executed a successful dive to haul her back towards the surface. Once again thankful for the cooling effects of the sea, Mateos burned with shame and confusion and prayed that the spectators were much too busy with readying for the Lady Daniil's return to the surface to notice his potentially fatal mistake.
He never made mistakes.
He could only watch Adrestus haul Lady Daniil towards the rope and begin the arduous task of hoisting her to safety when, in the first words that he had heard from the man in years, he spoke: 'Hold onto me.' His breath caught in his chest, and he paused, scared by the prospect of what the man's skin under his fingers would bring back but terrified of the implications that refusing to comply with th-
He was talking to Lady Daniil. Of course. She was conscious, he saw now, as she returned the hold on her rescuer. He was speaking to Lady Daniil. She was awake. Of course.
Mateos' hands trembled as he took the rope in his own hands, and not just from the icy sea, as he hauled himself partially out of the water. His arms shook from exhaustion in several forms, but stonefaced as ever, the Statue's unyielding will to mask every fissure in his demeanor with sheer strength was enough to hoist himself up the rope after Adrestus and wait for the man to return first the Lady and then himself to land. He clutched so strongly to his composure that he refused to allow the man's touch to reignite the blaze of emotions that just moments earlier had threatened to consume him before the ocean could drown him, and within seconds his feet were planted firmly on land. Almost immediately he strode towards the guards that still possessed the lower half of his wardrobe, relieved to be out of the clutches of the crowd of women that had proceeded to surround the Lady Daniil to protect her modesty. He cared not for the chill of wet clothes, nor for the prospect of modesty that no soldier cared for, but out of respect for the womenfolk present he conceded to the guards' insistence of encircling him so he could change relatively out of sight of the females. He took his time donning fresh clothes; he was in no hurry to return to the concerned crowds outside the safety of his wall of guards, nor to face Adrestus again.
This was all so much more exciting than looking at painted ships. Two nobles floundering in the water. One of the sons of Nikolaos growing needlessly anxious over it. Of course, Elysia shared his assessment that Lady Daniil and Lord Mateos could not stay in the water, but she disagreed about the severity of the situation. There were too many sailors and too many servants around. Neither of the two people now in the harbor would suffer anything more than being soaking wet and losing their dignity besides. It was just not that much of a worry, however, she watched with undisguised amusement, fingers pressed against her smiling lips, as Lord Adrestus had a rope ladder fashioned and bravely flung himself into the harbor to make a brilliant rescue.
What a day.
"Any further grand advice to offer, Lady Elysia? I am concerned that you seem rather amused by all of this..."
She nearly jumped out of her skin when she was addressed by Princess Persephone. Elysia dropped her fingers delicately away from her mouth and schooled her features into a less smiling appearance and one of more concern. Dipping into a curtsey, she clasped her hands in front of her. It would do little good to deny what the princess had already seen, and so she chose not to.
“My apologies, your highness. I am sure that my amusement is out of place and for that I sincerely apologize.” She glanced at Lord Mateos in the water, who by now more than had things in hand. After all, he was now out of the water, and was striding with little enough evident shame towards his clothes. She saw the briefest hint of a pale bottom before she turned her attention back to the princess. “I would that I was able to resist laughing at a man’s exposed bottom, my lady, but I am unequal. Happily, my laughter has not caused further damage, as Lady Daniil is safe and Lord Mateos is recovering his dignity.” She inclined her head for the princess to look.
“I will, of course, remember in future to have the appropriate amount of panic, your highness.” She dipped into another curtsey. “Would it please your highness for me to withdraw from today's festivities? Or may I remain with the strict promise to behave?”
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This was all so much more exciting than looking at painted ships. Two nobles floundering in the water. One of the sons of Nikolaos growing needlessly anxious over it. Of course, Elysia shared his assessment that Lady Daniil and Lord Mateos could not stay in the water, but she disagreed about the severity of the situation. There were too many sailors and too many servants around. Neither of the two people now in the harbor would suffer anything more than being soaking wet and losing their dignity besides. It was just not that much of a worry, however, she watched with undisguised amusement, fingers pressed against her smiling lips, as Lord Adrestus had a rope ladder fashioned and bravely flung himself into the harbor to make a brilliant rescue.
What a day.
"Any further grand advice to offer, Lady Elysia? I am concerned that you seem rather amused by all of this..."
She nearly jumped out of her skin when she was addressed by Princess Persephone. Elysia dropped her fingers delicately away from her mouth and schooled her features into a less smiling appearance and one of more concern. Dipping into a curtsey, she clasped her hands in front of her. It would do little good to deny what the princess had already seen, and so she chose not to.
“My apologies, your highness. I am sure that my amusement is out of place and for that I sincerely apologize.” She glanced at Lord Mateos in the water, who by now more than had things in hand. After all, he was now out of the water, and was striding with little enough evident shame towards his clothes. She saw the briefest hint of a pale bottom before she turned her attention back to the princess. “I would that I was able to resist laughing at a man’s exposed bottom, my lady, but I am unequal. Happily, my laughter has not caused further damage, as Lady Daniil is safe and Lord Mateos is recovering his dignity.” She inclined her head for the princess to look.
“I will, of course, remember in future to have the appropriate amount of panic, your highness.” She dipped into another curtsey. “Would it please your highness for me to withdraw from today's festivities? Or may I remain with the strict promise to behave?”
This was all so much more exciting than looking at painted ships. Two nobles floundering in the water. One of the sons of Nikolaos growing needlessly anxious over it. Of course, Elysia shared his assessment that Lady Daniil and Lord Mateos could not stay in the water, but she disagreed about the severity of the situation. There were too many sailors and too many servants around. Neither of the two people now in the harbor would suffer anything more than being soaking wet and losing their dignity besides. It was just not that much of a worry, however, she watched with undisguised amusement, fingers pressed against her smiling lips, as Lord Adrestus had a rope ladder fashioned and bravely flung himself into the harbor to make a brilliant rescue.
What a day.
"Any further grand advice to offer, Lady Elysia? I am concerned that you seem rather amused by all of this..."
She nearly jumped out of her skin when she was addressed by Princess Persephone. Elysia dropped her fingers delicately away from her mouth and schooled her features into a less smiling appearance and one of more concern. Dipping into a curtsey, she clasped her hands in front of her. It would do little good to deny what the princess had already seen, and so she chose not to.
“My apologies, your highness. I am sure that my amusement is out of place and for that I sincerely apologize.” She glanced at Lord Mateos in the water, who by now more than had things in hand. After all, he was now out of the water, and was striding with little enough evident shame towards his clothes. She saw the briefest hint of a pale bottom before she turned her attention back to the princess. “I would that I was able to resist laughing at a man’s exposed bottom, my lady, but I am unequal. Happily, my laughter has not caused further damage, as Lady Daniil is safe and Lord Mateos is recovering his dignity.” She inclined her head for the princess to look.
“I will, of course, remember in future to have the appropriate amount of panic, your highness.” She dipped into another curtsey. “Would it please your highness for me to withdraw from today's festivities? Or may I remain with the strict promise to behave?”
Having never been someone who was the best with directions, Emilia's wide eyes were no help as she tried to pick her way back to where she had wandered off from her sister and the clutch of nobles who had been conversing. A victim of her own distractions, the young girl found the panic slow and growing within her as the dense crowds swept her further away from her destination. The princess was rarely without companionship, be it from her own family or from the guards assigned to her. To find herself alone and on her own devices was suddenly very disconcerting.
Which was why when someone addressed her formally, Emilia's first reaction had been to jump like a deer startled in the night, turning around sharply with a wide eyed look of shock, only to calm down when she noticed who it was. Lady Hebe of Antonis was a familiar face, if not overly known to Emilia. But she's been somewhat friends with the young Antonis lady since childhood. The only thing was that Emilia had never had much chance to explore the friendship, purely because of their separate lifestyles. Despite being both of noble birth, Emilia's life at the palace and the recent political unrest due to her father's growing illness meant she was kept more and more to herself. While the young brunette was saddened at her lack of ability to commune with other's, she also recognized the necessity of such a thing.
So when Hebe made her way to her side, Emilia's smile was as vibrant as it was friendly as she greeted the young lady in kind, her panic ebbing a little now that she had a familiar face by her side. "They are, very much so. I can't say I favor a particular one, for they are all very well done." she murmured in return, keeping in mind the most diplomatic answer as was taught by her tutor. As a princess, she wasn't supposed to show favors...but she did enjoy the ship prepared by the baron of Arcasis in particular. The ship was decorated to reflect the province's most well known export itself - golden grain. Shining in the sunlight, it made Emilia yearn to visit the province itself - that and many other places, a sudden wanderlust she found herself growing to have.
But that would not be the case. Her duty was here afterall, and she doubted neither her sister nor her father would agree to Emilia's request should she suddenly ask to travel the kingdoms.
Having to content herself by simply imagining then, Emilia turned to Hebe with her friendly smile. "Have you been enjoying yourself, Lady Hebe? It has been quite awhile since I last saw you." Emilia knew of Hebe's reputation, mostly from hearsay as the young girl had just started attending court sessions. But the princess found herself wanting to relate to the young girl - someone who is as enthusiastic as she is, but also yet to learn to grow into who they are. They were both of that awkward, growing-up stage with much to learn, and Emilia could use a friend at the age she is now. The last she remembered of Hebe was seeing her at the most recent court session her sister had hosted, but swept up in Persephone's want to introduce her to as many as she could, Emilia had not even had the chance to go over and greet Hebe. "Oh! Look over there!" she suddenly exclaimed, the classic distracted ease Emilia always had whenever something caught her eye.
Gripping Hebe's arm, she tugged at the younger girl and pointed over yonder at a stall where a cobbler was waving around a pair of brightly colored sandals, slippers and boots, all glinting in the sunlight with gold plated upon their surface, and inscribed with the dates of the day, and patternns that reflected the festivities of the day. "Should we go take a look?" She asked in eagerness, not even realizing that doing so would take her further away from her supposed destination to seek for her sister - but that was classic Emilia afterall.
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Having never been someone who was the best with directions, Emilia's wide eyes were no help as she tried to pick her way back to where she had wandered off from her sister and the clutch of nobles who had been conversing. A victim of her own distractions, the young girl found the panic slow and growing within her as the dense crowds swept her further away from her destination. The princess was rarely without companionship, be it from her own family or from the guards assigned to her. To find herself alone and on her own devices was suddenly very disconcerting.
Which was why when someone addressed her formally, Emilia's first reaction had been to jump like a deer startled in the night, turning around sharply with a wide eyed look of shock, only to calm down when she noticed who it was. Lady Hebe of Antonis was a familiar face, if not overly known to Emilia. But she's been somewhat friends with the young Antonis lady since childhood. The only thing was that Emilia had never had much chance to explore the friendship, purely because of their separate lifestyles. Despite being both of noble birth, Emilia's life at the palace and the recent political unrest due to her father's growing illness meant she was kept more and more to herself. While the young brunette was saddened at her lack of ability to commune with other's, she also recognized the necessity of such a thing.
So when Hebe made her way to her side, Emilia's smile was as vibrant as it was friendly as she greeted the young lady in kind, her panic ebbing a little now that she had a familiar face by her side. "They are, very much so. I can't say I favor a particular one, for they are all very well done." she murmured in return, keeping in mind the most diplomatic answer as was taught by her tutor. As a princess, she wasn't supposed to show favors...but she did enjoy the ship prepared by the baron of Arcasis in particular. The ship was decorated to reflect the province's most well known export itself - golden grain. Shining in the sunlight, it made Emilia yearn to visit the province itself - that and many other places, a sudden wanderlust she found herself growing to have.
But that would not be the case. Her duty was here afterall, and she doubted neither her sister nor her father would agree to Emilia's request should she suddenly ask to travel the kingdoms.
Having to content herself by simply imagining then, Emilia turned to Hebe with her friendly smile. "Have you been enjoying yourself, Lady Hebe? It has been quite awhile since I last saw you." Emilia knew of Hebe's reputation, mostly from hearsay as the young girl had just started attending court sessions. But the princess found herself wanting to relate to the young girl - someone who is as enthusiastic as she is, but also yet to learn to grow into who they are. They were both of that awkward, growing-up stage with much to learn, and Emilia could use a friend at the age she is now. The last she remembered of Hebe was seeing her at the most recent court session her sister had hosted, but swept up in Persephone's want to introduce her to as many as she could, Emilia had not even had the chance to go over and greet Hebe. "Oh! Look over there!" she suddenly exclaimed, the classic distracted ease Emilia always had whenever something caught her eye.
Gripping Hebe's arm, she tugged at the younger girl and pointed over yonder at a stall where a cobbler was waving around a pair of brightly colored sandals, slippers and boots, all glinting in the sunlight with gold plated upon their surface, and inscribed with the dates of the day, and patternns that reflected the festivities of the day. "Should we go take a look?" She asked in eagerness, not even realizing that doing so would take her further away from her supposed destination to seek for her sister - but that was classic Emilia afterall.
Having never been someone who was the best with directions, Emilia's wide eyes were no help as she tried to pick her way back to where she had wandered off from her sister and the clutch of nobles who had been conversing. A victim of her own distractions, the young girl found the panic slow and growing within her as the dense crowds swept her further away from her destination. The princess was rarely without companionship, be it from her own family or from the guards assigned to her. To find herself alone and on her own devices was suddenly very disconcerting.
Which was why when someone addressed her formally, Emilia's first reaction had been to jump like a deer startled in the night, turning around sharply with a wide eyed look of shock, only to calm down when she noticed who it was. Lady Hebe of Antonis was a familiar face, if not overly known to Emilia. But she's been somewhat friends with the young Antonis lady since childhood. The only thing was that Emilia had never had much chance to explore the friendship, purely because of their separate lifestyles. Despite being both of noble birth, Emilia's life at the palace and the recent political unrest due to her father's growing illness meant she was kept more and more to herself. While the young brunette was saddened at her lack of ability to commune with other's, she also recognized the necessity of such a thing.
So when Hebe made her way to her side, Emilia's smile was as vibrant as it was friendly as she greeted the young lady in kind, her panic ebbing a little now that she had a familiar face by her side. "They are, very much so. I can't say I favor a particular one, for they are all very well done." she murmured in return, keeping in mind the most diplomatic answer as was taught by her tutor. As a princess, she wasn't supposed to show favors...but she did enjoy the ship prepared by the baron of Arcasis in particular. The ship was decorated to reflect the province's most well known export itself - golden grain. Shining in the sunlight, it made Emilia yearn to visit the province itself - that and many other places, a sudden wanderlust she found herself growing to have.
But that would not be the case. Her duty was here afterall, and she doubted neither her sister nor her father would agree to Emilia's request should she suddenly ask to travel the kingdoms.
Having to content herself by simply imagining then, Emilia turned to Hebe with her friendly smile. "Have you been enjoying yourself, Lady Hebe? It has been quite awhile since I last saw you." Emilia knew of Hebe's reputation, mostly from hearsay as the young girl had just started attending court sessions. But the princess found herself wanting to relate to the young girl - someone who is as enthusiastic as she is, but also yet to learn to grow into who they are. They were both of that awkward, growing-up stage with much to learn, and Emilia could use a friend at the age she is now. The last she remembered of Hebe was seeing her at the most recent court session her sister had hosted, but swept up in Persephone's want to introduce her to as many as she could, Emilia had not even had the chance to go over and greet Hebe. "Oh! Look over there!" she suddenly exclaimed, the classic distracted ease Emilia always had whenever something caught her eye.
Gripping Hebe's arm, she tugged at the younger girl and pointed over yonder at a stall where a cobbler was waving around a pair of brightly colored sandals, slippers and boots, all glinting in the sunlight with gold plated upon their surface, and inscribed with the dates of the day, and patternns that reflected the festivities of the day. "Should we go take a look?" She asked in eagerness, not even realizing that doing so would take her further away from her supposed destination to seek for her sister - but that was classic Emilia afterall.
Persephone watched the proceedings with a shrewd eye, her expertise and training as to acting as the perfect princess of calm demurity and tranquil repose coming to her rescue as the man without clothing reached the surface and the woman he carried was displayed as having less than she fell into the water with also. So much nudity for a singular public event, she could not help but think.
Glancing around in order to find the appearance of her father and whether or not he was amused or concerned by the events as they played out, secured a vision of King Minas giving the distress no attention or heed at all. Instead, he spoke calmly and engrossingly with the artist of the hour and gave little impression that he, as a monarch, was at all concerned with the issues of the lower Houses. Persephone took a slow inhale through her nose, realising her mistake in stepping forward to be a part of this issue. For her father was right. She had been too compassionate in stepping forwards. The Royal Houses might wish to be a part of the rescue, for Lady Daniil was one of them, and the lower Houses would wish to curry favour with those they might be able to help. But Xanthos? The monarch Dynasteia and ruling class? No. The King had to be seen as being entirely separate from those he ruled, if he was to maintain a sense of ethereal authority over those that he pledged his life to lead and protect. Odd that, to do that, he had to be seen as uncaring.
But Persephone understood the logic. And chastised herself all the more that she was not quick to have followed the same protocol and had come across as too much of a peer and not enough a superior to the people around her.
When the Lady Elysia spoke back upon her comments regarding the woman's amusement, Persephone was careful to side-eye her, rather than turn to face her fully. She did not wish for those around them to suspect that she was partaking in the woman's amusement.
That being said, there was little Persephone could do the halt the smallest of curls in the corner of her mouth as Elysia spoke of 'exposed bottoms' and some infantile part of her psyche decided to find this oppressively hilarious. She restrained herself to only the merest hint of her own mirth but was not able to entirely squash the merriment altogether.
"I shall not dismiss you." She said, instead, to the young woman, uncaring as to whether the woman had been joking or not - for it was within her rights to send the lady away. "But I shall require fair warning if you are to speak so in my presence and risk my breaking with my own decorum." She sent a sidelong glance to the woman again, this time would a look of conspiracy.
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Persephone watched the proceedings with a shrewd eye, her expertise and training as to acting as the perfect princess of calm demurity and tranquil repose coming to her rescue as the man without clothing reached the surface and the woman he carried was displayed as having less than she fell into the water with also. So much nudity for a singular public event, she could not help but think.
Glancing around in order to find the appearance of her father and whether or not he was amused or concerned by the events as they played out, secured a vision of King Minas giving the distress no attention or heed at all. Instead, he spoke calmly and engrossingly with the artist of the hour and gave little impression that he, as a monarch, was at all concerned with the issues of the lower Houses. Persephone took a slow inhale through her nose, realising her mistake in stepping forward to be a part of this issue. For her father was right. She had been too compassionate in stepping forwards. The Royal Houses might wish to be a part of the rescue, for Lady Daniil was one of them, and the lower Houses would wish to curry favour with those they might be able to help. But Xanthos? The monarch Dynasteia and ruling class? No. The King had to be seen as being entirely separate from those he ruled, if he was to maintain a sense of ethereal authority over those that he pledged his life to lead and protect. Odd that, to do that, he had to be seen as uncaring.
But Persephone understood the logic. And chastised herself all the more that she was not quick to have followed the same protocol and had come across as too much of a peer and not enough a superior to the people around her.
When the Lady Elysia spoke back upon her comments regarding the woman's amusement, Persephone was careful to side-eye her, rather than turn to face her fully. She did not wish for those around them to suspect that she was partaking in the woman's amusement.
That being said, there was little Persephone could do the halt the smallest of curls in the corner of her mouth as Elysia spoke of 'exposed bottoms' and some infantile part of her psyche decided to find this oppressively hilarious. She restrained herself to only the merest hint of her own mirth but was not able to entirely squash the merriment altogether.
"I shall not dismiss you." She said, instead, to the young woman, uncaring as to whether the woman had been joking or not - for it was within her rights to send the lady away. "But I shall require fair warning if you are to speak so in my presence and risk my breaking with my own decorum." She sent a sidelong glance to the woman again, this time would a look of conspiracy.
Persephone watched the proceedings with a shrewd eye, her expertise and training as to acting as the perfect princess of calm demurity and tranquil repose coming to her rescue as the man without clothing reached the surface and the woman he carried was displayed as having less than she fell into the water with also. So much nudity for a singular public event, she could not help but think.
Glancing around in order to find the appearance of her father and whether or not he was amused or concerned by the events as they played out, secured a vision of King Minas giving the distress no attention or heed at all. Instead, he spoke calmly and engrossingly with the artist of the hour and gave little impression that he, as a monarch, was at all concerned with the issues of the lower Houses. Persephone took a slow inhale through her nose, realising her mistake in stepping forward to be a part of this issue. For her father was right. She had been too compassionate in stepping forwards. The Royal Houses might wish to be a part of the rescue, for Lady Daniil was one of them, and the lower Houses would wish to curry favour with those they might be able to help. But Xanthos? The monarch Dynasteia and ruling class? No. The King had to be seen as being entirely separate from those he ruled, if he was to maintain a sense of ethereal authority over those that he pledged his life to lead and protect. Odd that, to do that, he had to be seen as uncaring.
But Persephone understood the logic. And chastised herself all the more that she was not quick to have followed the same protocol and had come across as too much of a peer and not enough a superior to the people around her.
When the Lady Elysia spoke back upon her comments regarding the woman's amusement, Persephone was careful to side-eye her, rather than turn to face her fully. She did not wish for those around them to suspect that she was partaking in the woman's amusement.
That being said, there was little Persephone could do the halt the smallest of curls in the corner of her mouth as Elysia spoke of 'exposed bottoms' and some infantile part of her psyche decided to find this oppressively hilarious. She restrained herself to only the merest hint of her own mirth but was not able to entirely squash the merriment altogether.
"I shall not dismiss you." She said, instead, to the young woman, uncaring as to whether the woman had been joking or not - for it was within her rights to send the lady away. "But I shall require fair warning if you are to speak so in my presence and risk my breaking with my own decorum." She sent a sidelong glance to the woman again, this time would a look of conspiracy.
Vasia gave a nod to Persephone before she cast one last look toward the water. It seemed as though Mateos was being aided to safety, so the blonde endeavoured to do as she had offered and make her way to the younger Xanthos Princess.
It was no easy task, for a crowd had gathered to witness the drama unfolding in the harbour, even inspite of Persephone’s best efforts to keep people back, and Vasia had to thread her way through the throng of bodies, trying to keep sight of Princess Emilia as she did so. She was jostled a moment and turned to bestow a cool glance on the man responsible, and when she freed her gown from where the man had stepped upon it, she could not immediately see the young girl.
The Antonis lady arched her neck to see over the heads of the people around her, and felt a bloom of relief when she found the Princess again, this time talking to none other than her own cousin. Unsure if that was a postive development or a worrying one, Vasia hurried toward them, not wanting the two young women to be swept away in the draw of the festival. She had told Persephone she would be with the Princess and therefore that was where she needed to be. With a mildly exasperated look, she finally broke through the crowd and managed to reach Emilia, just in time to hear the girl express some interest in wandering off to look at sandals of all things.
“Just one moment, your highness, Lady Hebe” Her voice carried, clear and with the slightest hint of remonstration as she drew level with the young girls. “We would not wish to lose you both in amongst this rush now would we, and neither of you should be considering wandering off alone without an appropriate escort.”
She let her gaze rest on Hebe a moment, not needing to say anything further to make her disapproval known. “ However…” and here Vasia smiled “Those do look like rather fetching sandals, so if you would like to take a look before we rejoin your sister, Princess, then by all means. I like to think I can keep us out of trouble inbetween here and there.”
And she motioned for the young girls to move forward. She remembered well enough how tedious such events could seem, and there was little harm in indulging the girls wants when it was safe to do so. It would only take a moment and then she could shpeherd her young charges back to the royal party. Never mind that her brother was half unclothed and that was a sight that the girls definitely should not be witness to.
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Vasia gave a nod to Persephone before she cast one last look toward the water. It seemed as though Mateos was being aided to safety, so the blonde endeavoured to do as she had offered and make her way to the younger Xanthos Princess.
It was no easy task, for a crowd had gathered to witness the drama unfolding in the harbour, even inspite of Persephone’s best efforts to keep people back, and Vasia had to thread her way through the throng of bodies, trying to keep sight of Princess Emilia as she did so. She was jostled a moment and turned to bestow a cool glance on the man responsible, and when she freed her gown from where the man had stepped upon it, she could not immediately see the young girl.
The Antonis lady arched her neck to see over the heads of the people around her, and felt a bloom of relief when she found the Princess again, this time talking to none other than her own cousin. Unsure if that was a postive development or a worrying one, Vasia hurried toward them, not wanting the two young women to be swept away in the draw of the festival. She had told Persephone she would be with the Princess and therefore that was where she needed to be. With a mildly exasperated look, she finally broke through the crowd and managed to reach Emilia, just in time to hear the girl express some interest in wandering off to look at sandals of all things.
“Just one moment, your highness, Lady Hebe” Her voice carried, clear and with the slightest hint of remonstration as she drew level with the young girls. “We would not wish to lose you both in amongst this rush now would we, and neither of you should be considering wandering off alone without an appropriate escort.”
She let her gaze rest on Hebe a moment, not needing to say anything further to make her disapproval known. “ However…” and here Vasia smiled “Those do look like rather fetching sandals, so if you would like to take a look before we rejoin your sister, Princess, then by all means. I like to think I can keep us out of trouble inbetween here and there.”
And she motioned for the young girls to move forward. She remembered well enough how tedious such events could seem, and there was little harm in indulging the girls wants when it was safe to do so. It would only take a moment and then she could shpeherd her young charges back to the royal party. Never mind that her brother was half unclothed and that was a sight that the girls definitely should not be witness to.
Vasia gave a nod to Persephone before she cast one last look toward the water. It seemed as though Mateos was being aided to safety, so the blonde endeavoured to do as she had offered and make her way to the younger Xanthos Princess.
It was no easy task, for a crowd had gathered to witness the drama unfolding in the harbour, even inspite of Persephone’s best efforts to keep people back, and Vasia had to thread her way through the throng of bodies, trying to keep sight of Princess Emilia as she did so. She was jostled a moment and turned to bestow a cool glance on the man responsible, and when she freed her gown from where the man had stepped upon it, she could not immediately see the young girl.
The Antonis lady arched her neck to see over the heads of the people around her, and felt a bloom of relief when she found the Princess again, this time talking to none other than her own cousin. Unsure if that was a postive development or a worrying one, Vasia hurried toward them, not wanting the two young women to be swept away in the draw of the festival. She had told Persephone she would be with the Princess and therefore that was where she needed to be. With a mildly exasperated look, she finally broke through the crowd and managed to reach Emilia, just in time to hear the girl express some interest in wandering off to look at sandals of all things.
“Just one moment, your highness, Lady Hebe” Her voice carried, clear and with the slightest hint of remonstration as she drew level with the young girls. “We would not wish to lose you both in amongst this rush now would we, and neither of you should be considering wandering off alone without an appropriate escort.”
She let her gaze rest on Hebe a moment, not needing to say anything further to make her disapproval known. “ However…” and here Vasia smiled “Those do look like rather fetching sandals, so if you would like to take a look before we rejoin your sister, Princess, then by all means. I like to think I can keep us out of trouble inbetween here and there.”
And she motioned for the young girls to move forward. She remembered well enough how tedious such events could seem, and there was little harm in indulging the girls wants when it was safe to do so. It would only take a moment and then she could shpeherd her young charges back to the royal party. Never mind that her brother was half unclothed and that was a sight that the girls definitely should not be witness to.
Hebe thought of Emilia as her friend already. They had known each other since they were children, after all. She wasn't extremely close with any of her cousins, but maybe that would change. Now that she was finally of an age to attend court events, perhaps she would see them more often. She also understood that Emilia had more obligations and duties as a member of the ruling family and wasn't able to socialize as much outside of court events.
Royal blood ran through the youngest Antonis daughter's veins as well, and she had heard it said that her father should have become King. She was glad that he hadn't. It would be marvelous to be called 'Princess Hebe,' but she would have a lot less freedom than she had now. She would also have to go to boring meetings and have to pretend she liked boring people because they were important. Putting her foot in her mouth would be disastrous rather than embarrassing, and even with three older sisters, there would be no possibility of marrying for love.
Emilia had always seemed happy to her, and Hebe knew that there were advantages to being a princess as well, though the only one she could think of at the moment was that everyone had to do as she said. Perhaps the advantages outweighed the disadvantages. The young girl was glad that she would never know. She liked her life just as it was … she had wealth and status and privilege as well as pretty clothes and jewelry. Anything she desired would be hers. Except for the pet lion she had been begging her parents for during the past few years. They always said no, regardless of how eloquently she pleaded. “Maybe when you're older,” they told her. They said that a lot. Hebe couldn't wait to be older.
The princess greeted her with a bright smile, and Hebe pushed her thoughts to the back of her mind. She wished now that she had not asked which ship Emilia favored. Even if the other girl did like one in particular, she wouldn't be able to say so in a crowd full of people, as her opinion would be taken into account at the judging. Why oh why did she never know the right thing to say? Emilia didn't seem to mind her careless question, so that was a good thing.
“I don't have a favorite either.” This was true. “They each have their own appeal.” Hebe had been taught to be diplomatic as well. It was possible (though rather unlikely), that she would be wed to a foreign prince or king and she had to be prepared for any eventuality. If anyone married into a ruling family, it would probable by Sanasa, despite her prickly personality and her bossy ways. But who knew what would happen in the future? Maybe she would grow up to be one the most beautiful women in Athenia and men would throw themselves at her feet, begging for her favor.
“Oh yes!” she exclaimed when asked if she was enjoying herself. “I love being so close to the sea. I adore the ocean. And it's fun to be in the midst of so much excitement. I've only recently started attending court events, you know, and they are all so fascinating.” Emilia was a few years Hebe's senior and she hoped that the princess would not think she was acting childish. She truly wanted Emilia to like her. She had very few friends who were at the same stage that she was … moving from childhood to adulthood with all the challenges and confusion that went along with that process.
She was about to ask Emilia the same thing, but the princess suddenly grabbed her arm and pointed at a stall that was selling sandals and other glittering footwear to commemorate the festivities. They did look quite intriguing. “I think we should definitely check them out.” The other girl seemed just as enthusiastic, curious, and spontaneous as she was, traits that she was sometimes admonished for. Could it be that she had found a kindred spirit in Emilia?
Before they could move toward the stall, her cousin Vasia's voice stopped them. Hebe looked at Emilia and rolled her eyes conspiratorially. Why did adults have to spoil all the fun? She was fond of Vasia but at the moment, she didn't want to be taken back where she belonged when such enticing wares beckoned to her. The blonde woman chastised the girls for wandering off without an escort and glanced disapprovingly at Hebe, as if she should have known better. Maybe she should have, but she had been lost and what was wrong with having a bit of fun while waiting to be found? Unfortunately, they had been found a bit too soon.
She was quite surprised when Vasia suggested that they could look at the sandals before they went back to the royal party. Hebe grinned at Emilia and then looked up at the older woman. “You're the best cousin ever!” she said, impulsively giving her a quick hug. Stepping away, she added to Emilia: “Come on, Your Highness, let's go!” and began skipping energetically toward the footwear stall.
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Hebe thought of Emilia as her friend already. They had known each other since they were children, after all. She wasn't extremely close with any of her cousins, but maybe that would change. Now that she was finally of an age to attend court events, perhaps she would see them more often. She also understood that Emilia had more obligations and duties as a member of the ruling family and wasn't able to socialize as much outside of court events.
Royal blood ran through the youngest Antonis daughter's veins as well, and she had heard it said that her father should have become King. She was glad that he hadn't. It would be marvelous to be called 'Princess Hebe,' but she would have a lot less freedom than she had now. She would also have to go to boring meetings and have to pretend she liked boring people because they were important. Putting her foot in her mouth would be disastrous rather than embarrassing, and even with three older sisters, there would be no possibility of marrying for love.
Emilia had always seemed happy to her, and Hebe knew that there were advantages to being a princess as well, though the only one she could think of at the moment was that everyone had to do as she said. Perhaps the advantages outweighed the disadvantages. The young girl was glad that she would never know. She liked her life just as it was … she had wealth and status and privilege as well as pretty clothes and jewelry. Anything she desired would be hers. Except for the pet lion she had been begging her parents for during the past few years. They always said no, regardless of how eloquently she pleaded. “Maybe when you're older,” they told her. They said that a lot. Hebe couldn't wait to be older.
The princess greeted her with a bright smile, and Hebe pushed her thoughts to the back of her mind. She wished now that she had not asked which ship Emilia favored. Even if the other girl did like one in particular, she wouldn't be able to say so in a crowd full of people, as her opinion would be taken into account at the judging. Why oh why did she never know the right thing to say? Emilia didn't seem to mind her careless question, so that was a good thing.
“I don't have a favorite either.” This was true. “They each have their own appeal.” Hebe had been taught to be diplomatic as well. It was possible (though rather unlikely), that she would be wed to a foreign prince or king and she had to be prepared for any eventuality. If anyone married into a ruling family, it would probable by Sanasa, despite her prickly personality and her bossy ways. But who knew what would happen in the future? Maybe she would grow up to be one the most beautiful women in Athenia and men would throw themselves at her feet, begging for her favor.
“Oh yes!” she exclaimed when asked if she was enjoying herself. “I love being so close to the sea. I adore the ocean. And it's fun to be in the midst of so much excitement. I've only recently started attending court events, you know, and they are all so fascinating.” Emilia was a few years Hebe's senior and she hoped that the princess would not think she was acting childish. She truly wanted Emilia to like her. She had very few friends who were at the same stage that she was … moving from childhood to adulthood with all the challenges and confusion that went along with that process.
She was about to ask Emilia the same thing, but the princess suddenly grabbed her arm and pointed at a stall that was selling sandals and other glittering footwear to commemorate the festivities. They did look quite intriguing. “I think we should definitely check them out.” The other girl seemed just as enthusiastic, curious, and spontaneous as she was, traits that she was sometimes admonished for. Could it be that she had found a kindred spirit in Emilia?
Before they could move toward the stall, her cousin Vasia's voice stopped them. Hebe looked at Emilia and rolled her eyes conspiratorially. Why did adults have to spoil all the fun? She was fond of Vasia but at the moment, she didn't want to be taken back where she belonged when such enticing wares beckoned to her. The blonde woman chastised the girls for wandering off without an escort and glanced disapprovingly at Hebe, as if she should have known better. Maybe she should have, but she had been lost and what was wrong with having a bit of fun while waiting to be found? Unfortunately, they had been found a bit too soon.
She was quite surprised when Vasia suggested that they could look at the sandals before they went back to the royal party. Hebe grinned at Emilia and then looked up at the older woman. “You're the best cousin ever!” she said, impulsively giving her a quick hug. Stepping away, she added to Emilia: “Come on, Your Highness, let's go!” and began skipping energetically toward the footwear stall.
Hebe thought of Emilia as her friend already. They had known each other since they were children, after all. She wasn't extremely close with any of her cousins, but maybe that would change. Now that she was finally of an age to attend court events, perhaps she would see them more often. She also understood that Emilia had more obligations and duties as a member of the ruling family and wasn't able to socialize as much outside of court events.
Royal blood ran through the youngest Antonis daughter's veins as well, and she had heard it said that her father should have become King. She was glad that he hadn't. It would be marvelous to be called 'Princess Hebe,' but she would have a lot less freedom than she had now. She would also have to go to boring meetings and have to pretend she liked boring people because they were important. Putting her foot in her mouth would be disastrous rather than embarrassing, and even with three older sisters, there would be no possibility of marrying for love.
Emilia had always seemed happy to her, and Hebe knew that there were advantages to being a princess as well, though the only one she could think of at the moment was that everyone had to do as she said. Perhaps the advantages outweighed the disadvantages. The young girl was glad that she would never know. She liked her life just as it was … she had wealth and status and privilege as well as pretty clothes and jewelry. Anything she desired would be hers. Except for the pet lion she had been begging her parents for during the past few years. They always said no, regardless of how eloquently she pleaded. “Maybe when you're older,” they told her. They said that a lot. Hebe couldn't wait to be older.
The princess greeted her with a bright smile, and Hebe pushed her thoughts to the back of her mind. She wished now that she had not asked which ship Emilia favored. Even if the other girl did like one in particular, she wouldn't be able to say so in a crowd full of people, as her opinion would be taken into account at the judging. Why oh why did she never know the right thing to say? Emilia didn't seem to mind her careless question, so that was a good thing.
“I don't have a favorite either.” This was true. “They each have their own appeal.” Hebe had been taught to be diplomatic as well. It was possible (though rather unlikely), that she would be wed to a foreign prince or king and she had to be prepared for any eventuality. If anyone married into a ruling family, it would probable by Sanasa, despite her prickly personality and her bossy ways. But who knew what would happen in the future? Maybe she would grow up to be one the most beautiful women in Athenia and men would throw themselves at her feet, begging for her favor.
“Oh yes!” she exclaimed when asked if she was enjoying herself. “I love being so close to the sea. I adore the ocean. And it's fun to be in the midst of so much excitement. I've only recently started attending court events, you know, and they are all so fascinating.” Emilia was a few years Hebe's senior and she hoped that the princess would not think she was acting childish. She truly wanted Emilia to like her. She had very few friends who were at the same stage that she was … moving from childhood to adulthood with all the challenges and confusion that went along with that process.
She was about to ask Emilia the same thing, but the princess suddenly grabbed her arm and pointed at a stall that was selling sandals and other glittering footwear to commemorate the festivities. They did look quite intriguing. “I think we should definitely check them out.” The other girl seemed just as enthusiastic, curious, and spontaneous as she was, traits that she was sometimes admonished for. Could it be that she had found a kindred spirit in Emilia?
Before they could move toward the stall, her cousin Vasia's voice stopped them. Hebe looked at Emilia and rolled her eyes conspiratorially. Why did adults have to spoil all the fun? She was fond of Vasia but at the moment, she didn't want to be taken back where she belonged when such enticing wares beckoned to her. The blonde woman chastised the girls for wandering off without an escort and glanced disapprovingly at Hebe, as if she should have known better. Maybe she should have, but she had been lost and what was wrong with having a bit of fun while waiting to be found? Unfortunately, they had been found a bit too soon.
She was quite surprised when Vasia suggested that they could look at the sandals before they went back to the royal party. Hebe grinned at Emilia and then looked up at the older woman. “You're the best cousin ever!” she said, impulsively giving her a quick hug. Stepping away, she added to Emilia: “Come on, Your Highness, let's go!” and began skipping energetically toward the footwear stall.
Elysia noted, with great pleasure, the merest hint of a curl beginning at the corners of the princess’s mouth. She maintained her own contrite expression, head bowed in a quiet dignity, hands clasped together at the finger tips, waiting for the axe to fall. Her eyes wandered from Persephone’s face down to the princess’s perfect form. Not for the first time did she wonder how Persephone was so elegant all of the time. If it had been Persephone falling into the harbor, Elysia imagined that the display would have been lyrical, magical, and truly amazing to watch; a bit like a dance. Not like the huge plunk and splash that Lord Mateos had made.
"I shall not dismiss you,” Persephone said and Elysia let out the smallest exhale of relief. Most of what she’d said had been a joke, but asking if she was to withdraw had not been. She would not stay where she was not wanted. Her gaze was drawn back to the princess as she continued, "But I shall require fair warning if you are to speak so in my presence and risk my breaking with my own decorum."
Elysia inclined her head and dipped into a curtsey again. “Your highness, I would warn you, but such a thing will never happen again. After all, Lord Mateos is now recovered. There is no danger of his exposing himself to us again. Sadly. I only say sadly, of course, for our own sake. His lordship has much to be proud of, I should think. Perhaps due to his rigorous exercise regime, but, I will be silent on that subject, your highness. Come, let us speak of better things. Like brightly painted ships? Which one do you favor?”
She unclasped her hands and pointed with a delicate finger towards the ship that Lord Adrestus had so gallantly offered the use of his crew. If she’d known the princess a bit better, she’d have slipped her arm through Persephone’s and toted the girl around with her, but as it stood, they were simply not that close. Instead, she inclined a shoulder and nodded toward the line of ships. “Have you toured any yet? Or are you to stand next to the king for the whole event? Surely you can come look, if you like?”
Interested in what made the princess tick, Elysia was keen to spend any time at all with Persephone. It was not often that the princess was free to socialize, or if she did socialize, it was always so stilted and formal. Like speaking to the royal family as a whole, instead of to a person. Elysia wanted to know the person behind the veneer that she suspected this girl hid behind. A veneer that couldn’t possibly be maintained forever; especially if she stayed in close proximity to her.
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Elysia noted, with great pleasure, the merest hint of a curl beginning at the corners of the princess’s mouth. She maintained her own contrite expression, head bowed in a quiet dignity, hands clasped together at the finger tips, waiting for the axe to fall. Her eyes wandered from Persephone’s face down to the princess’s perfect form. Not for the first time did she wonder how Persephone was so elegant all of the time. If it had been Persephone falling into the harbor, Elysia imagined that the display would have been lyrical, magical, and truly amazing to watch; a bit like a dance. Not like the huge plunk and splash that Lord Mateos had made.
"I shall not dismiss you,” Persephone said and Elysia let out the smallest exhale of relief. Most of what she’d said had been a joke, but asking if she was to withdraw had not been. She would not stay where she was not wanted. Her gaze was drawn back to the princess as she continued, "But I shall require fair warning if you are to speak so in my presence and risk my breaking with my own decorum."
Elysia inclined her head and dipped into a curtsey again. “Your highness, I would warn you, but such a thing will never happen again. After all, Lord Mateos is now recovered. There is no danger of his exposing himself to us again. Sadly. I only say sadly, of course, for our own sake. His lordship has much to be proud of, I should think. Perhaps due to his rigorous exercise regime, but, I will be silent on that subject, your highness. Come, let us speak of better things. Like brightly painted ships? Which one do you favor?”
She unclasped her hands and pointed with a delicate finger towards the ship that Lord Adrestus had so gallantly offered the use of his crew. If she’d known the princess a bit better, she’d have slipped her arm through Persephone’s and toted the girl around with her, but as it stood, they were simply not that close. Instead, she inclined a shoulder and nodded toward the line of ships. “Have you toured any yet? Or are you to stand next to the king for the whole event? Surely you can come look, if you like?”
Interested in what made the princess tick, Elysia was keen to spend any time at all with Persephone. It was not often that the princess was free to socialize, or if she did socialize, it was always so stilted and formal. Like speaking to the royal family as a whole, instead of to a person. Elysia wanted to know the person behind the veneer that she suspected this girl hid behind. A veneer that couldn’t possibly be maintained forever; especially if she stayed in close proximity to her.
Elysia noted, with great pleasure, the merest hint of a curl beginning at the corners of the princess’s mouth. She maintained her own contrite expression, head bowed in a quiet dignity, hands clasped together at the finger tips, waiting for the axe to fall. Her eyes wandered from Persephone’s face down to the princess’s perfect form. Not for the first time did she wonder how Persephone was so elegant all of the time. If it had been Persephone falling into the harbor, Elysia imagined that the display would have been lyrical, magical, and truly amazing to watch; a bit like a dance. Not like the huge plunk and splash that Lord Mateos had made.
"I shall not dismiss you,” Persephone said and Elysia let out the smallest exhale of relief. Most of what she’d said had been a joke, but asking if she was to withdraw had not been. She would not stay where she was not wanted. Her gaze was drawn back to the princess as she continued, "But I shall require fair warning if you are to speak so in my presence and risk my breaking with my own decorum."
Elysia inclined her head and dipped into a curtsey again. “Your highness, I would warn you, but such a thing will never happen again. After all, Lord Mateos is now recovered. There is no danger of his exposing himself to us again. Sadly. I only say sadly, of course, for our own sake. His lordship has much to be proud of, I should think. Perhaps due to his rigorous exercise regime, but, I will be silent on that subject, your highness. Come, let us speak of better things. Like brightly painted ships? Which one do you favor?”
She unclasped her hands and pointed with a delicate finger towards the ship that Lord Adrestus had so gallantly offered the use of his crew. If she’d known the princess a bit better, she’d have slipped her arm through Persephone’s and toted the girl around with her, but as it stood, they were simply not that close. Instead, she inclined a shoulder and nodded toward the line of ships. “Have you toured any yet? Or are you to stand next to the king for the whole event? Surely you can come look, if you like?”
Interested in what made the princess tick, Elysia was keen to spend any time at all with Persephone. It was not often that the princess was free to socialize, or if she did socialize, it was always so stilted and formal. Like speaking to the royal family as a whole, instead of to a person. Elysia wanted to know the person behind the veneer that she suspected this girl hid behind. A veneer that couldn’t possibly be maintained forever; especially if she stayed in close proximity to her.