[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]Zanon did his best to keep a pleasant look on his face as he stood by his mother’s side, greeting those who came through the reception line with a few words of his own and unable to hide his grin as Silas slipped through in a tardy manner with a twinkle in his eye. Winking at his youngest brother, the second prince fought to hide his amusement when their mother turned to give him a glare. No doubt she expected him to be stone faced as Vangelis would be in this moment. Ever a slight disappointment in comparison.
He was envious as Silas slipped away into the crowds, watching the others mill about and discuss before the next person stepped up in line to greet them. The spymaster, the lady Iolanthe. Philippos received a grin and a nod as he once again pulled the formality of prince instead of friend into place. ”Indeed Commander we will. Enjoy the evening.” After that it was an endless row of greeting, though it did not escape his notice that Thea of Thanasi entered and began mingling before paying her respects to the queen and he had to hide his scowl. The arrogance of the Thanasi grew by the day.
Whispers surrounded him and he couldn’t help but chuckle as he picked up on a few maids gossiping in the corner off to the side about the state of dress he had been in during the fire. Yes, it had been a tragedy, but at least some humor could be found in the fact that he had ridden into it wearing little more than a loincloth. Blocking out the idle chatter, Zanon finally felt as if the curse of being his brother’s stand in might have lifted as Magnus of Chaoissis stepped up for a second time, this round bringing a beautiful young woman with him. The resemblance was obvious, and he silently applauded the man for using his position to raise his family along with him. He had always respected the master informer, liked him well enough on the occasions they spoke, and knowing now that he had a beautiful sister certainly didn’t hurt.
”Welcome to court, mistress Leto. I am glad to see your brother has brought you out of hiding, such a pretty face would be wasted outside of these walls. What do you think of our court so far?”
He could almost feel his mother’s eyes boring into him as she gave her own kind greeting to the young woman, a veiled threat that if he were to overtly stray again Yanni of Kotas would drive a sword through her second son’s heart herself. Not that he could blame her after the spectacle they had made on the night when he and Evras had fought, then reconciled. It had left a man dead and a good deal of blood and agony on her flooring and even the gracious queen didn’t have patience for stained marble.
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]It did not take much for Leto to decide that she liked Iolanthe, whether in admiration for her deft, natural presence in social situations or simply for the kindness she had shown in the few moments they had known each other, she was not sure. Despite whatever situation existed between her and Magnus - something she was dreadfully curious about but knew better than to ask in that moment - she could not help but admire how the lady navigated it all so delicately. It did not seem the sort of thing someone could learn strictly from a book, as Leto had attempted, but through living it.
"Then, we will join you afterward," Leto stated, very excited to now have two acquaintances at court, a Commander and a Lady. Then, as the noblewoman took her hand and squeezed it to offer the invitation, the young woman's blue eyes doubled in size as a broad smile spread across her face. The fluttering within her ribcage shifted from nerves to excitement at the noblewoman's words.
"I would love to!" Leto beamed, her excitement present as she did her best to keep her voice at an appropriate volume. Immediately, her round, dish-like eyes flashed up to Magnus like that of a child who saw a tray of sweets pass by, silently begging. It would be so lovely to have someone kind enough to teach her first-hand about navigating court, and simply to have another woman to be around.
In the several years since she had moved to Midas, she had few female friends near her age, often considering the lead servant within the household to be as close to a friend as she could manage. Her parents were lovely, of course, and Magnus was fine company as well when he was not busy, but to have someone like Iolanthe to help her through this season in her life - it was like a gift. On top of that, it would give her the opportunity to travel, a distinct jealousy that she silently held against her brother from time to time.
As Magnus and Leto shared their parting bows with Philippos and Iolanthe, she could not help but add, "We should plan it soon." The grin had not fully melted from her face as they started to walk, the fluttering in her chest shifting between excitement and nervousness like water in a glass. Her brother's tease over her conversation starter shifted it a touch more towards nerves, but her mind was still on visiting the Lady Iolanthe's estate, even as they stood in line. In a response to his tease, she lightly shrugged her shoulders.
They were next His final words did comfort her in their own way, and she nodded. Leto always worked well when she knew distinct processes. Once she had a framework in her mind of what needed to happen, she would stay within the bounds. It was her way. Taking a bit of a deeper inhale as they stepped up to the Queen. Throughout the introduction, Leto could not tear her eyes away from the Queen's decadent finery and jewelry. Magnus' nudge was welcome and she curtsied deeply to first the Queen and then the Prince Zanon.
"Your Highnesses," she started, as she rose. Her eyes immediately returned to the Queen, noting the slight smile of approval on the woman's lips, which sent a rush of relief over the nervous wings of her heart batting against her chest. A soft smile of her own settled onto her features and flowed into her posture, still standing tall but with less tension in her shoulders and her hands folded calmly in front of her.
Her eyes rounded once again as the Prince spoke to her, welcoming her to court, and she dipped her head in a bow of silent thanks as he continued. His words caused her to blink a few time, and she felt a warm blush warm the cool cream of her cheeks. It took a quick moment to register that he asked a question, and another moment to ensure she would not stumble on her words. Normally, she would glance to Magnus for a supportive nod or something of that sort, but with him standing behind her and out of sight, it was not an option.
"To say it is an honor to be welcomed so warmly is an understatement," she started, pulling together words in her mind that would make sense, be truthful, yet not be overblown, "There is so much to take in, Your Highness. I am fortunate to have my brother by my side to guide me. Without him, an evening like this would simply be a dream."
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]Iolanthe smiled at the enthusiasm Leto showed, already fond of the girl from two interactions, and nodded at her request to plan the visit soon. She was planning to return to Arcanes shortly, why not bring along a guest to entertain them. Galatea certainly wouldn’t mind the addition of lovely visitor, Leto would bring a bit of lightness to the two older women and their myriad miseries and trials. It was difficult to keep her smile from faltering when Magnus invited himself along, and she pressed her lips together to prevent from instantly saying no.
”We shall certainly see. Good evening.”
Taking Philippos’ arm, she followed the commander and stood by his side as he had his own cup refilled, taking one of her own and keeping a bright smile on her lips. She could stand here and discuss Taengea, but all of her memories of the other country were entwined with Magnus even before their return journey spent in bed with one another. Giving a nod she tried to push aside most of those memories to focus on generalities, the fashion and the food and the people.
”It’s very different, there’s a layer of elegance atop everything, but goodness I’ve started to think their people are mad given what I heard. The king himself seems a bit touched.” Her tone was conspiratorial and she leaned in closer to speak with him, trying to bring herself to flirt and shove her insecurities away but it was difficult after seeing Magnus again.
”We were there only three days, hardly worth the time it took to get there and back, but it did show me that my husband will not be of Taengean blood. My sister-in-law is Taengean, and I do love her so I had hoped that perhaps one of her countrymen might suit, but it wasn’t meant to be I fear.”
His offer to introduce her to the princes was kind, and really she ought to be thanking him and leaning on his influence, but she found tears pricking the back of her eyes and she just wanted to flee. Her cup had been emptied in the moments they had spoken and she set it aside, offering a smile and reaching out to squeeze his arm in thanks. He had been kind at least, and once she had gotten herself under control she would return.
”Actually, I need some air, if you don’t mind. I’ll just be off for a moment, thank you.” Iolanthe briskly turned and made her way through the crowd as subtly as possible to break free and find peace.
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]It was with a note of pride for Magnus to step back just a fraction of a step and allow his sister to take front and center stage as she greeted the prince and Queen. While Leto was not raised and trained to be a noble lady, the male knew his sister had been putting in a great deal of effort and tried her best, even if it resulted in her being short of temper sometimes. Sometimes, Magnus wondered if perhaps, leaving and their parents to live out the rest of their lives as common folk would be best, but then he watched at the best of lives the nobility would get, and retracted his thoughts. If there was a better life to be led, he would always try to do so for his sister. He had little chances of being deemed as royalty, for Magnus was a realist. But a noble house, he can aim for. He had come this far afterall.
The spymaster wore a wry smile at the second prince's flirtatious words. Vangelis had many a time told him of Prince Zanon and his affinity for a pretty face, even if rumor were to have it he and his wife were on the road to mending their marriage. But a few choice words that would uplift his sister's confidence and spirits, Magnus had no qualms over.
From the corner of his eye, Magnus noted the soft blush on Leto's cheeks, and hid a chuckle at how easily the words affecting the young lady. He made a mental note to remember that now Leto was of marriageable age, he would carefully vet the companions she keeps, as he stepped forward while Leto ended her words. Taking her arm again, the spymaster gave a sharp bow to the Queen, and then the prince. "My sister and I appreciate the hospitality and festivities of the night, Your Highnesses. Prince Zanon,' he turned to the male, an affirmative, more serious nod as he usually gave when it concerned work matters. "I shall update you upon news I have gained since my return from Taengea. For now, we take our leave, and wish you a pleasant evening."
With that, Magnus drew Leto away, grinning down at her once they were out of earshot. "I see someone has been practicing." he murmured, pride tinging his tone as he squeezed the arm he had a hand laid over. Turning to the side as a servant passed by, Magnus was just taking two chalices of wine being offered, when a familiar brown head flashed in the corner of his eye. Frowning as he tilted his head for a better look, the flutter of a familiar chiton made the spymaster pause, collecting his thoughts, and then turning to Leto, smile back in place.
Offering the chalice of wine to her, his eyes cautioned her on overimbibing, and then took up her arm again as he saw someone of note. "Come, sister. I shall introduce you, and then I have some work to tend to."
Leaning down to press a soft kiss to the top of her head, he weaved their way through the crowds of the court, chuckling as the gossip reached his ear of the second prince. "I do hope you did not catch sight of the half-naked Prince Zanon during the fire, Leto." he quipped, a laugh underlining his words as they finally drew to up the figure of the youngest prince nursing his wine. Bowing respectfully, a signal for Leto to do the same, Magnus greeted the youngest male of the Kotas family, someone he had contact with the least, but knew of all the same.
"Prince Silas, I see you have decided to take the quieter route for the night. I trust all is well with yourself, and your affairs after the torrid fire in Midas?" It was a question to start off their conversation, and awaited Silas's response, before Magnus tugged Leto forward, gesturing at her with a flourish in his hands. "May I introduce my sister, Leto of Chaossis. It is her first time in court, so I fear I have many to introduce her to, tonight." It was obvious in Magnus's tone of the pride and affection he had for his sister as he introduced her, watching whilst his sibling greeted the royal figure.
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]Leto and Magnus were well on their way to speaking with the royal family stationed at the front of the room. The people around him were so much better at this type of event than he was. Philippos felt uncomfortable as he was forced to abide by the rules of the court and keep his manners about him. He could do it. For a while. But, he was easily distracted by another full cup of libations as he nodded to Iolanthe’s words. Nike would have probably swatted this third cup from his hand… but she wasn’t here.
”It’s very different, there’s a layer of elegance atop everything, but goodness I’ve started to think their people are mad given what I heard. The king himself seems a bit touched.”
”Perhaps, some day, I will have the pleasure of the journey there. I heard the voyage was long and hard.” He smirked to himself knowing that he was better used here on the soil of Colchis or towards the North. Taengea was a dream that lay far away with rumored beautiful women he would never get to see, or more importantly, touch. The commander so easily lost in his own thoughts, even with a beautiful maiden in front of him. Though, he didn’t often bother himself with those that were real options for a future. He didn’t want commitment.
”We were there only three days, hardly worth the time it took to get there and back, but it did show me that my husband will not be of Taengean blood. My sister-in-law is Taengean, and I do love her so I had hoped that perhaps one of her countrymen might suit, but it wasn’t meant to be I fear.”
He bowed his head and took a long sip off his cup. ”Distance can be difficult. I leave for months at a time for campaigns and have many I miss.” Philippos didn’t have a constant lover and he didn’t have a family he truly cared about. In fact, that line was merely a line to be polite in the conversation. The men who were his friends and new family were with him. Though with Vangelis and Nike away to Taengea, it could be argued he felt their absence oddly enough. Especially here.
When there was silence, he looked towards her with a tilted head. He was like a puppy looking at something unknown. Philippos was certain he had been on his best behavior, but to make a lady cry so early in the evening was a curiosity.
””Actually, I need some air, if you don’t mind. I’ll just be off for a moment, thank you.”
Her words did nothing to comfort him. Pos was left wondered what he had said or done wrong. Not that it really mattered, there were plenty of women in the room. When she returned he would likely be just as attached to another one. He just nodded kindly and allowed her to leave. Women were far too emotional of a creature. He spun on his heels as he looked at who else was in the room to talk to, perhaps he would just have to join and speak to the Prince’s alone.
Just as he did, a lady he had been with before began to make a beeline for him. Philippos swallowed the rest of his goblet and shoved it into her hand as soon as she arrived by his side. Her etiquette was impeccable as she stood far enough away not to make it uncomfortable. The commander asked her to find him another drink, but it was only a ploy to push through the crowd and find some other distraction. He moved through the people smiling and apologizing as he past not even bothering to look over his shoulder to be sure he had lost her.
His hands pressed against his armor adjusting for what must have been the thousandth time before finding himself in front of Thea of Thanasi. He cleared his throat some and bowed to her. ”Lady Thea, I apologize for my intrusion.” Philippos hadn’t meant to just appear next to her and honestly wasn’t sure if she was midconversation or even midthought. He had found to always just apologize. Especially, when now he had realized much of the Thanasi clan was around. A bow of the head to each of them that still remained in the vicinity. ”Have you heard the rumors of the room tonight?” He quirked a brow as he attempted reporting what the others at court were buzzing about.
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]"I shall have to visit him during his training someday," Mihail decided, always happy to see his young nephew, though he had usually tended to avoid trips to the Kotas home in doing so. More often than not, it was Dion who visited the Thanasi home alongside his mother, although the man was willing to make some degree of effort to do so in future as was necessary. He might have been well aware that there was some archery skill in the Kotas family and, no doubt, they would have chosen excellent tutors for the boy but, to be perfectly frank, Mihail did not exactly trust easily, and that fully applied to this situation. "I cannot wait to see just how improved he is since we last met." It was hardly a secret that he cared deeply for Dion, not to mention the wellbeing of his archery talents. He would not have the Kotas who most resembled him ruined by subpar training.
As his sister took his arm in her own - and what a relief it was; this was far too much positive interaction with those he did not entirely like for Mihail - he let her drag him away, nodding in response to the query on their siblings. While he had never gotten on drastically well with Dysius, he was far closer to Thea and, for the most part, the pair of them shared their plans with one another often. Besides, Nethis fully expected them to attend court in her absence, and he was sure the others would hence be showing up in their own time. Adjusting his chiton slightly as he gazed over the crowd of current nobles now filling the hall, searching for the familiar heads of either sibling. "I assume Didi shall make his own way, but he never deems me good enough to share his plans with. Thea, however, she should be arriving shortly. She did mention plans to attend." Mihail shrugged, an air of nonchalance about his response despite his eagerness to see himself surrounded by the rest of his family. The presence of further Thanasis tended to make these situations more manageable.
It was in that moment that Thea appeared with the silence of a shadow, and that was no doubt part of the reason there were such rumours of witchcraft surrounding her. Such quiet movements were enough to still shock Mihail at moments and yet he had grown up at her side. That was the case now, as he had almost jumped at her words, turning to glare at her in a manner that she would doubtless understand as jokier than his usual expression, though it was noticeable that his gaze momentarily slid over the bodyguard who stood at her side.
"Thea!" he exclaimed at the woman, his dark eyes narrowing and lips coming together to form an irritated pout. "I would rather you didn't appear from nowhere and humiliate me with the surprise so publicly. Especially not in the presence of such delightful company..." Mihail reached over to place a hand on Ophion's upper arm, smirking up at the man. Gods, he would have loved to ravage that and he was not afraid to show it before his sisters. Still, court was not exactly the appropriate place to display such lust, and as another approached the dark-haired trio, the youngest removed his hand from where it rested to turn his gaze onto the newcomer.
The rumours. Mihail had heard snippets of what was being said as he had crossed the room alongside Evras, and they had led him to chuckle under his breath in amusement, particularly given that he had been present when such events had occurred. It was delightful to hear such gossip, though he had only spread some of the words himself - a slipped comment on the prince's state of dress during a heated evening - but he enjoyed hearing the scandal from another. The fragments of conversation involving affairs...those he did not care for, nor did he claim any responsibility for. Awkward conversations with Evras had led Mihail's assurance he would not gossip so drastically on the matter of Zanon.
His eyebrows raised, however, as he answered, a sign that he did not exactly approve of everything which had been said. "I am well aware of the rumours, though I cannot say I agree with them." He did not say much else just yet, however, despite however much Mihail might have had to say on the subject of gossip. Instead, he could not help but nod his head slightly in his sister's direction, waiting to see precisely what Evras wished to say about such rumours before he made any further remarks. She had the right, after all, to defend her husband's honour, and Mihail did so wish to prove to her that he could be impartial surrounding his brother-in-law.
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]Her sister had always been an anomaly - albeit one that Evras welcomed. In the court where people gossiped and gave side eyes, whispered amongst themselves, the youngest of the sisters was thankful for the comfortable space she had when it came to being with her siblings. She had Zanon, but how much can she rely on her husband when he had duties to attend to, nobles to see, and when he had to ensure the Queen was accompanied on a night such as this, when the King and Vangelis were both away? Evras did not wish to burden Zanon.
Smiling when Thea spoke up as if she had been conjured when Evras had spoken of her name, she laughed, and leaned in to buss her sister's cheeks. The closest of the three, Thea, Evras and Mihail had always been as thick as thieves while Dysius and Nethis would walk together with plans for the house. Make no doubt, the siblings banded together when necessary, but within themselves, they did have favorites, and Evras did not bother denying.
Hiding a laugh when Mihail's attention obviously swayed to her sister's guard, Evras's own eyes swivelled to the handsome guard of Thea's, and gave a nod of acknowledgement. She could acknowledge the good looks of the man, which she did as she let her gaze linger on Ophion, but Evras was loyal to her husband. "I'm sure Dion would be glad to see you - he's been anxious for your visits, and misses his uncles and aunts." Evras replied her brother's earlier comment. In a way, she was thankful her son had yet to enter the mines, what with the recent collapse and fire which had came from it, she was antsy yet to allow her son to go to a place which may potentially be unsafe.
As they moved to accomodate their sister to join their trio, the whispers of the court rumors drifted by Evras's ears, which caused her to give an amused smile, eyes sparkling as she looked above the heads, attempting to find and meet her husband's eyes to give him a knowing, almost teasing grin and pointed look. Somehow she wasn't surprised that Zanon's naked dash to the temples to get her had got around the court gossip - but it was amusing, somewhat. "It isn't untrue, of course. You've seen it, Mimi." the elder one teased Mihail, hiding a laugh, but eyes glittering thanks to the younger one for at least withholding making a scathing comment about her husband's absurdity.
Peering around the crowd, it was to her surprise when Commander Philippos made an appearance next to her sister, appearing somewhat mildly disconcerted as he shifted in his armor. Hearing his question, Evras had to hide a smile again, her gaze flicking to Thea, wondering what her elder sister would reply.
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]Walking in from a walk, Aeson ran up to Priam, his face displaying his obvious discontent. Priam blinked at his older brother, obviously confused as to why he was approaching him in such a manner. It wasn't as if he had been getting into any sorts of trouble or the like. He was just out reading, a common occurrence for the young boy. It should have been obvious what he was doing and if Aeson had any issues with it, he should have spoken up the hundreds of other times the boy left to do the same thing. Quizzically, Priam tilted his head, "What's wrong, Aeson?"
The young man in front of him crossed his arms, his face stern, "Where have you been, Priam? We have to go to court today! I've been looking for you everywhere. If you don't hurry, we'll be late." Suddenly, Aeson grabbed the young scholar's hand, pulling him into another room.
Priam, shocked by the fact that he was going to be going somewhere formal, dug his feet into the floor. He really didn't see the point of going to court. It wasn't as if he was going to be looking for a wife now and the other nobility was quite boring at such events, or he was sure they would be. "I don't want to go, Aeson. Can I not just stay home? If I go to court, surely I won't have time to continue my studies today."
Aeson was having none of Priam's excuses as he called for a servant to help his younger brother get prepared for the event. He then turned to his younger brother, arms crossed. The elder boy was dressed up much more than he usually would be. He wore the finest of silks instead of an easy to move around chiton that he preferred to practice and lounge around in. "No, Priam. You will be taking a break from studying today. It is important for you to make an appearance at court. You are twelve years old."
Priam sighed as the servant who came in swooped down, taking the mathematics book out of the young boy's hands. The scholar looked at it wistfully as the servant moved around, undoing Priam's ponytail he did to keep his long locks out of his face. Wiggling his nose, Priam narrowed his eyes in front of him, clearly upset. Aeson walked around him before looking at the servant, "Make sure to change his chiton to the one I showed you earlier." The servant nodded toward the young man and, soon enough, Aeson walked out of the room to allow the servant to do the work of not only preparing the young boy but also listening to his protest.
The young scholar felt a comb being run through his long locks, making them neat and putting them into place. The golden strands fell to the tops of his shoulders. The boy contorted his face, "This is going to be a waste of time." He crossed his arms, biting his lip. "All I wanted to do was read and study today." He huffed, his glare at the wall intensifying.
Suddenly, the servant paused, carrying beautiful blue silks. Priam stared at the silks for a good ten seconds before sighing in defeat and uncrossing his arms. The servant made quick work changing him into the proper clothes, tying his golden cord around his waist. The servant made the final touches to Priam's hair and clothing, ensuring the boy was presentable before giving him a kind smile and walking away to retrieve Aeson.
When Priam's older brother reentered the room, his scowl of disapproval was replaced with a bright smile as he laughed, "Ah, Priam. It looks like you're ready to go."
Priam looked at Aeson, still disappointed that he had to waste his time he could be using to read and study at a court session. But, he supposed it couldn't be helped. After all, he was going to have to go eventually, why not now? "Alright, Aeson. Let's go." Maybe if he was lucky, he would be able to see his friends there, as well.
Aeson gave his brother a happy smile. The two brothers were inseparable. Despite their wide age gap, they had an incredibly close relationship. Priam looked up to Aeson a lot and Aeson always tried to give him the best advice that he could. Overall, the two survived the world together despite their less than happy upbringing. So, it was no surprise, that on their way to the event, Aeson was able to cheer Priam up more with brotherly banter and discussion.
Upon entering the event, Aeson had left Priam to his own devices after giving him a stern look that definitely screamed 'behave'. As the court session went along, Priam wandered around, looking at the foods and wines available as well as the others who were all around. It was quite a full room and he mainly just weaved in and out between people and objects in his way. He began to wonder exactly how many feet were on the ground at the moment. He, of course, had to count the feet of tables and chairs as well. With every person having two feet and every piece of furniture having at least four legs, he assumed it would be quite a large number, but still not as much as there were stars in the sky. That number almost seemed countless, for everytime he gazed into the night sky, he couldn't keep track of every light that glimmered in it.
There was gossip laced into the crowd, whispers that could be heard by the young boy as he passed several women gathered around. The boy didn't understand what was wrong with running naked from a fire if it meant keeping your life, but he assumed it was a rather eye-catching sight to see the prince running around naked. Priam was sure he would have noticed it if he had seen it happening before his own eyes. However, when the fire broke out, Priam was safely guided by Aeson to a temple himself and hadn't seen what happened otherwise. He assumed that was a good thing. If he had witnessed the countless people burning alive, he didn't know if he would be able to rid those memories from his mind's eye.
Exhaling, the boy shook his head, his hair brushing against his cheeks as he did so. He knit his brows, brushing his hair back. Ugh, why did it need to be down in this court session? He much preferred to have it tied back where it would be out of his way. He could have it cut, but he did love how it kept him warm on the winter nights during his sleep, and thus it needed to stay long. But, if there were ways in order to keep it out of his face, why not utilize them? He felt that looking all nice and tidy was more of a handicap than it would allow him to get further in life.
As he was going to turn to go find Aeson again, Priam's ears picked up on a familiar voice. It was much too quiet to make out what it was saying, but he knew it all too well. His fingers prickled and his stomach felt as if there were butterflies stirring around in it. He glanced in the direction to see his friends Aras and Babis. Ah, finally. He didn't know as to how Aras's voice always seemed to give him such strange feelings, but they were quite enjoyable. Perhaps it was how one felt when around such close friends. After all, the Eliades twins and Prince Dion were his first real friends. When he was in Almosis, he didn't spend much time with anyone outside his family, let alone other boys around his age.
As he approached them, Priam's smile widened. He walked beside Aras, his hands behind his back. As he was dressed in fine silks and his hair was down, Priam looked much different than his normal self where he would run around with his friends in a comfortable chiton and his hair up in a ponytail. However, no matter, it was still him and him alone. He spoke cheerfully, "Oh! Hey, Aras! Babis!" His childish grin glowed as he talked to his friends, "What are you talking about?"
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]Thea fought to keep a smirk from forming on her rosy lips, but a twinge of mischief shone in her amber eyes at the slight jump Mihail did when the dark-haired male noticed her visage next to him. Maybe it was because she was raised to not show any herself, but she had always enjoyed getting reactions out of people. Her siblings were no exception of course, though as their big sister she would keep things innocuous, mostly giving them a bit of a jumpscare with her natural sleight of foot. After all these years, they still had never really managed to detect her, which was why the devious woman was now at the receiving end of her brother’s trademark playful scowl.
”Ophion has been with us more than enough by now, Mihail.”, Thea reassured her little brother while returning Evras’ peck with one of her own, tenderly placed on the pale princess’ ivory cheek. She then cast a sideway glance at the ‘delightful company’ in question, who was awkwardly clearing his throat to mask his bashfulness now that all eyes had averted their gaze onto him. He had been with the family enough now that nothing would probably shock him anymore, certainly not Mihail's having a scare. And the fact that they had never gotten involved at all during his years of servitude by her side, by no means, was an indicator of indifference. On the contrary, the second Thanasi daughter was more than well aware of how ungodly gorgeous her bodyguard was. On the other hand, she also knew for a fact that Nethis would give her an earful were it ever leaked out that one of her siblings, in this scenario herself, had bedded someone of lesser status. Apollo forbid, Thea would never hear the end of it about that one time when she fornicated with a lowly servant. Even if he looked like something Aphrodite had sculpted to perfection with her own two hands.
Nonetheless, before she got lost in his fierce sea-green eyes, the dark-haired siren turned back to her sister and brother. At the mention of her nephew, Thea’s eyes twinkled. ”Consider me in on one of those visits, too, Evie.”, she chimed in, already mentally tallying up a grocery list for ingredients to make some of his favorite sweets. Though her sister never explicitly said so, she was mindful of the fact that Dion was nearing the age where all royal men from a military background would start the grinding process of their training. Especially with a family like the Kotas, the boy would sure to be occupied at all times, which meant his aunts and uncles should squeeze their quality time in now while they still comfortably could.
Their family chatter was abruptly interrupted when a towering man clad in armor arrived next to the triad. Judging from his strong blue eyes, his goofy energy and the stature that loomed over even Ophion himself, the newcomer must be… Commander Phillipos. As Thea recalled, he was known for being one of Vangelis’ most devoted followers and the fearless leader to the Colchian Army. Despite being a vassal to the Kotas family, the blonde male had always been convivial towards her during any and all of their, albeit limited, interactions. Maybe it had something to do with how the crowned prince and herself held a mutually respectful relationship towards another, or perhaps it was simply because Phillipos did not really have a political bone in him.
Regardless, the man was overall tolerable to be around, and Thea did not mind his presence in the slightest bit. She would even entertain him for the time being, seeing how he was eager to meet her enough to the point of somewhat sprinting through the crowded room. And she had to admit, it would quite tickle her to hear out loud the story about how prince Zanon, one of the subjects of her avid disdain, streaked the streets of Midas mid fire in a loin cloth. So she quirked an eyebrow and answered his inquiry with a neutral expression, her voice possessing an almost inquisitive character to its tone to appear nonchalant and unknowing enough to Evras and Migail, who were probably gauging for her reaction to this supposedly hot gossip. ”Forgive me, Commander, I was not early enough to court today to have caught word of the news.” She then cast a look around the buzzing room before turning her eyes back on his features. ”Can I trouble you to brief me?”
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]Silas would have been deaf as to not hear the whispers of the court. The noble men and women who passed him shot ridiculing looks at his older brother. He didn't want to necessarily agree with them and he certainly wouldn't publicly. His brother was acting a little reckless and strange, but he had always been a little less put together than Vangelis. Silas hoped that the scrutiny of the court wouldn't be a problem for Zanon, while he kept things in order in the kingdom. As he stood quietly, he nodded in greeting to a few passing noblemen but managed to avoid fruitless conversation as he appeared to be drinking whenever someone approached.
Magnus had caught Silas at the right time, as he placed his goblet in the hand of a slave. The prince smiled at the pair that stood before him, recognising Magnus as the Master Informer but not the lady on his arm. She looked like a sibling, although he supposed she could be a cousin or niece. Silas didn't have much to do with Magnus, but he knew he was a respectable man, and the fact he had brought a relative to such a meeting raised his respect in Silas' eyes. He ducked his head in agreement, "Yes, I'm finding it to be a refreshing change. All the repairs for the city seem to be going quite well, so I will be back off to Chaossis again soon. How are you faring yourself, and your lovely companion?"
Silas gave a polite smile to Leto, "It's a pleasure to meet you, Leto. Are you enjoying yourself here? Your brother has a point, there are many people to meet. I wouldn't stretch myself too thin, you'll want to make an impression on the people you meet." Silas did not have the experience himself of having to integrate himself into the court- but he had proved himself as a young man. He had watched many people trying to assimilate into the court culture and failing because they tried to meet everyone and everything. Magnus was a smart man, smarter than Silas for sure, so he was certain to know this already.
Silas gestured to a slave to bring more goblets of wine closer and offered one to the two as he grasped his own, his smile turning a little nervous. It seemed that Silas had forgotten the polite small talk while working with his men, and he felt a little awkward.
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]His smile broadened when Mihail spoke up that he had heard them, or maybe he was foolishly thinking that he was even talking about the same thing. After all, he had intruded on their group. The rumors were probably true, just not the part about the mistress, or Pos hoped (even though Philippos was not the role model on promoting monogamy). Philippos couldn’t be sure, but he did know that the fires were hot and if he had the time or the wits he would have stripped some layers off to feel better. His arms abruptly crossed his chest over the bulky uniform giving a side eye to Mihail. It was only then Evras piped in with her own tease. Perhaps boldly encouraged to speak of it due to the way the pair of them had entered. They were getting along. And the people had to talk about something. Even in Colchis, the most serious of patrons enjoyed gossip.
Those bright blue distinct eyes darted from one angular featured Thanasi to another. He suddenly felt a tad in over his head. Course, Philippos often got himself into these predicaments, there was just no one around to save him. He bowed his head in reverence to her as she was of a much higher station than himself. Though, beyond that he had little problem conversing with those who would have been off limits had he not achieved the rank of Commander.
”Prince Zanon was a hero of the fires. It is said that he … “ His voice hushed as he invited himself in quite close to Thea to whisper the rest into her ear. The worst of it dismissed and changed, as all rumors typically did as they telephoned through a crowd. One line was changed again and again sometimes getting worse and other times getting better. ”He was shirtless in the street. Now, there are theories to why. Some less than appropriate for a lady - however, I know from experience that the flames and smoke were hot. The last word held a breath release, because that was who Philippos was. He only teased at the idea he was shirtless for any other reason besides sex with a mistress. He had been known to dabble before, unfortunately, not very good at keeping secrets.
He pulled back from his close intrusion of her personal bubble. But, the charming grin remained as he stood tall and proud. His confidence would not be diminished by the intimidating congregation of siblings. ”I could start new rumors amongst the crowd… if you care to make some?” He had a positively devious smirk as his attention moved from Evras, to Mihail, and to Thea again. He was an extroverted man with no worries about who he spoke to or what he said to them. Chasing rumors around the room and changing them just to delight on what he would hear when it came back around was a common pastime during these usually dull evenings.
"Wasn't someone whispering in the market that the prince and his wife have made up? The whole family was there during the night festival... So, it can't have been a woman that had him half dressed..."
"Ha! You say that, but I heard from my serving girl who's current beau saw the Princess Evras in a tavern with a young man. According to his account, they left together!"
"Who was the man?"
"*snort* How should he know. He wouldn't be able to recognise one noble from another. But he knew he was noble, that's for sure! So, I say, that the happy families at the market was all for show..."
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]Evras wore an amused smile when Thea invited herself in a visit to her son as well. Her siblings, no matter how misplaced Zanon's suspicions and careful watch on the Thanasi's was, were genuinely caring and concerned for her son. In so far as her son's safety, she never saw a need to worry when she occasionally left him alone under the care of Thea and Mihail when she visited and sat with her ailing father as she visited the Thanasi household mansion. Dion tended to return with sugar all around his mouth, or regaling her with tales of archery heroes and whatever gossip Mihail would feed her son (that in which she immediately banished, her husband would have her head for feeding his son with gossip, and Evras didn't enjoy people's talk herself).
So the princess nodded smoothly, making a mental note to remind Zanon to not bar Dion from his maternal aunts and uncles. It did not seem fair, considering he was no under full tutelage and training by his paternal uncles. With Asia not around and Silas busy, Evras figured Mihail could step in to feel the archery shoes whenever her husband was busy handling the affairs of the kingdom. Besides, it would be a brief reprieve before he had to enter the mines on his six month stint, and Evras wanted to ensure Dion's life was properly fulfilling before then.
With an amused smile as Thea more or less beckoned Philippos nearer to him, Evras chuckled at the subtle suggestive tone the Commander wore. She had seen him around before, of his charming wit and less then innocent acts. It did not bother her - some men were of his ilk in Colchis. It simply amused Evras to see Thea inquisitive yet neutral as she engaged Philippos in conversation.
It was within this amusement as she observed her siblings however, that another smatter of gossip hit her ears - one she did not enjoy at all.
Despite it having been a week since the disastrous happenings that had led to the reconciliation between herself and Zanon, Evras had done her best to push the majority of that evening out of her mind. Watching one's husband wield a bloodied sword in her face, dragging her by her hair, was not exactly the best memories to keep. Evras knew now of course, that Zanon's fit of anger came after years of pented up frustration, but that did little to stop the frisson of emotion that passed by her as the eyes of court suspiciously glanced at her. The confident way in which she had straightened her spine almost fell within themselves again, her shoulders hunching in as the hisses of gossip passed by her.
Of course the nobility would assume they had put on a show - had they not been putting on a show over the past few years anyhow? Evras would smile in social settings, but avoid her husband otherwise. It was ironic then, that the first time it was not a show at the markets, everyone else assumed it was. After eleven years, one should think she had learned to weather the gossip of the Midas court - but it was still a hard pill to swallow. Taking a deep breathe, Evras steeled herself, and then tilted her chin upwards, drawing on her sibling's strength being around her to defiantly meet the stares of the court members, before turning to address the group in which she was speaking with.
"I think we have quite enough rumors as we have now, Commander Philippos." If it came out harder then usual, Evras did not intend so. But when one was drawing on feigned strength, it affected every intonation in one's body. "My husband was simply in search of me, for I was apart from him in the temples of Midas when the fire broke out. I assume he was worried and had little time to find clothes." Turning to a passing noble lady or two who tittered and hid behind each other as Evras's hard glint met theirs, she subtly spoke in a tone that was loud enough for those around her to hear. "It is a good thing my son is not yet old enough to attend court. I would hate for him to think the people of nobility he is supposed to grow up with, would put their faith and judgement on something so inconsequential as word of mouth." At this point, she would appreciate her husband with her. At the very least, Zanon would be able to back up her claim, and she was unsure if by doing so to the ones who whispered about her own family, would cause strife between them and the royal family, or that the Queen would be very appreciative of what she's done... yet Evras could not sit by and let it idly by. She had to show that she could function fine without her husband to fight her fires. She was no weak-livered female afterall.
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]Thea kept her posture straight and her expression unphased as the jesting Commander intruded her bubble space to whisper the news among the four of them. With keen eyes of her siblings and quite a few their court patrons now fixating on her, she did not bat an eyelash. It was indisputable that her magnetic beauty had a knack for attracting males, and it certainly played a part in why people viewed her as a sorceress who exploited charms and spells to seduce and woo men. But she did well to never give away to anything that would validate the rumors. Whether she was enjoying the attention or simply tolerating it for pleasantries was anyone’s guest, and through all of her interactions the Thanasi girl maintained a proper and even demeanor. Her unwavering eyes, however, portrayed enough intensity that people eventually realized they should not be meddling with her business and looked away.
As Phillipos recounted the event of how prince Zanon was spotted among the fires in only undergarments, Thea maintained eye contact with him. The militarism certainly had a way with his storytelling, with his body gestures and whimsical enunciations that gave a sense of life to his words. After he was done talking, the blackette mused over the account of what happened before saying her mind on the matter. ”Wise ones would know that layers do not do well in a fierce fire.”, Thea defended her brother-in-law with an impartial tone. She then sneaked a glimpse at Evras, the main reason why she was even bothering. ”It was by no means appropriate, but desperate times call for desperate measures.”, she added a second thought on to sweeten the pot and finished her comments.
The blonde general, however, did not seem willing to end their conversation. Thea raised an eyebrow at his suggestion. Afterwards, she observed the crowd around them and listened in on what they were dishing out. Unsurprisingly, these simpletons were not satisfied with just defaming their prince. They now had the galls to drag her sister, who was definitely within their hearing distance, into their mind-numbing chatter. Gossip, while certainly amusing, did not feel right at the time with Thea, especially seeing how her dear sister was the topic of discussion of today’s court. She felt her heart sink into her stomach a little when she noticed how Evras’ cheerful features darkened into a frown. She knew she had to do something about those pieholes.
At that moment, Thea raised her hand and signaled for a maid over. As the servant carrying her big tray of refreshments and snacks over, she passed the nosy noble women on her way, who then followed her movements and spotted the Thanasi siblings. Their eyes grew wide and they frantically reduced their voices down to a hush, all the while attempting to hide their faces from Thea’s stare.
The royal ladyship turned on her heels to let them know that they now had her undivided attention. All the while, her contempt bubbled to see the bigmouths squirm and fidget. How pathetic they were, the idle tattlers who could yak on and on about someone but opted to stay silent like cowards in front of the target of their gossip.
However, Evras was not some spineless damsel. Thea watched with pride as her sibling called the harlots out on their buffoonery. As the princess shot them down with her words, she lifted a cup of wine off the tray of the waitress she had flagged over and took a sip of the velvet nectar. She swiveled the sweet liquid on the tip of her tongue before allowing it to roll down her throat, leaving a burning but pleasant kick in the back of her mouth. With a fleeting smirk, Thea mused. This alcohol, and the clapback her sister was now delivering, were both superb.
Seeing that Evras had concluded her piece, Thea warned the now cowering girls with a thinly-veiled glare of her own. ”An insignificant squirrel should learn to not disrespect the lioness that could eat her for breakfast.” She then averted her gaze to Phillipos, raising her glass in the direction of the busybodies who had just spread some rather unsavory tattletale about her sister. ”And that is why I would have to decline your offer, Commander.” Of course, she did not mean to lump him in with those people, but more to show him the personification of why she would not indulge him in further circulating more hearsay. There had been enough upheaval that day.
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]In a moment that felt thrice as long as it was, Leto had the funniest thought. In her mind, it felt as though she traded places with the statue along the wall, an object with a history and a purpose but in this mere moment, simply something to be glanced upon, briefly appraised, and acknowledge for its existence. Even with her stance - back straight as a spear, hands folded soft as lilies before her - this thought fluttered briefly in her mind, resulting in a smile just as Magnus began to address the royals.
It was always a comfort to sense her brother by her side, both physically and metaphorically. He guided them through their appropriate farewell and they stepped out of the royal family's presence.
If her chest were a birdcage, she could feel the small door of it swing open as she exhaled with relief. Once air seemed to refill her lungs at a normal rate, she glanced up at her brother's words and a broad smile began to break across her face. Accepting the glass, her eyes caught his silent suggestion and her own reflected with a small eye roll, followed by an acquiescing grin. Taking a small sip, she watched the sweet red liquid catch the light of the lanterns around the room and gave the glass a small swirl as she spoke.
"It was both easier...and harder than I imagined," she noted, trying to find the proper words to describe it. Books upon books had been written about courtly etiquette, but the experience felt like that with any other human being, only with a few more rules. "In the moment, it's not too difficult, but you know I worry that one misstep will cause some sort of trouble. Then again, I suppose I could be overthinking..."
Her voice trailed a bit, noting that her brother seemed preoccupied with glancing about the room. He must be looking for her, she thought, her own height helpful in seeing above many others in the room as well. Whether or not he heard her short ramblings, she shrugged into his sign of affection and followed his lead.
Hearing the talk herself, she initially did not want to make a comment on it, seeing as her choice of conversation so far had been less that becoming. However, as Magnus asked her, she raised one dark brow, glancing sidelong up at him, "If I had seen it, surely I would have brought it up before now." She could not help but glance over her shoulder at the Prince, her mind's eye briefly filling in the visuals over the course of a few seconds before looking back at her brother. "And if I had, I highly doubt I would have been able to look at him just now. My face does not hide my thoughts as well as yours...."
Her words trailed as she glanced before them, her face reflecting a touch of surprise at the suddenness of her brother's gesture to bow deeply. The moment the word 'Prince' left Magnus' lips, Leto straightened her shoulders even further on a slightly too sharp inhale, eyes a touch too round. It took her a few blinks to try to sort her thoughts as the two men spoke before her brother offered an introduction.
Dipping into her curtsey once more, she rose, a timid smile repainted on her lips. Her eyes briefly shot to her brother, a silent 'thanks for the warning' glance just before Prince Silas addressed her. A nervous laugh escaped her, thankful for the wine goblet in her hand to keep her from fidgeting.
"It is a lovely evening, Your Highness, and a pleasure to meet you and your family." Hearing her brother speak about how many introductions awaited her, she could not help but glance around the room. Nerves once again tugged that the bones of her ribcage, but her glance returned to the Prince, pleasantly surprised by his suggestion. "Very sound advice, Your Highness. I believe I'll take it..." she added, glancing up at her brother whose attention seemed to still be elsewhere, looking for the Lady of Peisistratos. Her mind rustled a moment, sensing that she was soon to be left in the company of the Prince without her brother's assistance, and she took a quick sip of her wine to allow her another moment for thought.
"So, you will be going to Chaossis? My brother and I are from there." she started, awkwardly, attempting small talk as the books she read suggested. Stick to conversations about places and events, not on people, lest you be considered a gossip. "It has been years since we have been there on a visit."
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]The youngest one was not someone Magnus had much contact with. The spymaster mainly worked with the King and Crown Prince, occasionally Prince Zanon when both the elder ones were unavailable. However he has heard much of the youngest son to the royal throne, and Prince Silas was yet to grow to his full potential, something that was exciting to see. He smiled cordially at the prince's neutral greeting, nodding at his polite question. "All is well as it can be. I have to meet with your brother for the remainder of the work to be finished to assist the people of Midas, but that will come along with time." the dark haired male replied, and then taking the cue of silence as he allowed his sister to speak.
Leto had her own charm, of that Magnus knew. She was a sweet thing, someone who took what life gave her and made the best of it. However, that did not mean she found it easy, for Magnus knew she still struggled to act as the noble lady she wanted to be for his sake. She was likely more comfortable on the back of a horse on the beaches of Chaossis. But Magnus wanted better for her, and the simple daughter of a merchant was not the way to go.
Having noticed the way Leto seemed to stand to attention when Magnus made it clear it was royalty they spoke to, the elder of the siblings merely shot back an amused smile at his sister, and watched as she exchanged her words with Silas, even as his gaze slid over occasionally to see if he could peer into the corridor Iolanthe had disappeared into. It was a futile attempt, but the longer he dawdled, the further she would go and the harder it would get for Magnus to seek her out.
"That we are." he replied with a soft murmur to bolster Leto's confidence a little, a subtle segue to join the conversation. An affectionate smile was directed at Leto at her final comment. "If you would like, I can bring you back there on a visit the next free block I have, once I've finalized all my work that had piled up from my visit to Taengea." Turning back to Silas, the smile was more pleasant and friendly as he offered a small, apologetic bow to both the prince and his sister, slipping his arm out from hers after giving her a subtle but encouraging squeeze of his hand. "I'll have to apologize for my suddenness, Your Highness, but I must leave my sister in your care, for I see some advisors I have needs to speak to on some urgency, for certain matters that needs discussion. I'll come for you at a late time, Leto."
With a final bow, Magnus turned away and made his way as discreetly as possible to the corridor he had seen Iolanthe disappear into, his steps only quickening once he has faded into the shadows out of the eyesight of the remainder of nobility currently attending court.
"No doubt. It must be awful for Dion to have suffered so long without a visit from the favourite of all his uncles," Mihail commented, finally tearing his gaze away from the good-looking guard to smile back at Evras. He did not care how long the man had served in their household, only that he may well have seen the youngest of the siblings in a humiliating situation, and that much would not do. It was best to look away from the man and act as though nothing had happened. Besides, the court was not exactly the most appropriate place to ogle the man in question, lest Mihail wished to hear unsavoury rumours about himself spreading through the ears of nobles.
It appeared that Thea was not so up to date with the gossip that had been spreading as Mihail always ensured he was, and though he might have preferred to brief her himself, the Commander before them appeared eager to answer, although he had moved perhaps closer to his older sister than Mihail might have deemed appropriate. "My brother-in-law may well have been gallant in the fire, but I would struggle to call him a hero when there are so many others whose actions are worthy of praise." He spoke, of course, of himself, an indication of the fact that he too had been present during the fire and believed himself to have played rather a significant role as his sister's saviour, and somewhat half-hearted yet attempted saviour of two other women, though they had declined the assistance. It seemed to Mihail that he deserved some public recognition for his actions.
The thought of formulating new rumours to replace the unsavoury ones appealed to Mihail, and a slight smile spread over his features, always eager to start some gossip that he might consider useful. He might have thought Evras would be keen on the idea as well, especially as claims of her dalliances were now reaching his ears. He already knew them to be untrue, and he had not thought it a terrible idea to invent something that might counter those whispers, but his youngest sister appeared quick to argue against the idea, obviously upset.
"My sister's relationship with her husband should be no one's concern but her own," he answered, somewhat more stoically than was the norm for him. Mihail reached down to take Evras's hand, a slight reassurance that, despite his penchant for gossip, he would stand by her side. "We need not spread stories to reassure others. Were this another occasion, perhaps I would take you up on your offer, as I do not tolerate treachery against the Thanasi name, but Evras has made her decision clear."
He couldn’t help but turn his attention towards Lady Evras when she spoke out his name. His head bowed in reverence before that sloppy grin met her mean stare. ”M’lady, if they are talking about someone else, then they are no longer speaking of you.” In Philippos head, this was all just another battlefield with a different type of war. One where the lashings were with the instead of the sword. And there was very little real blood shed, but perhaps some tears. Just like the men that played in the mud as they fought each other it was entertaining to many to hear of the spoils. Mostly only entertaining to the winners when the dust would settle. For the others, it was pain and shame with retreat. Pos liked to win.
The Thanasi’s on a whole were much like the pride that Thea so eloquently spoke of. They would eat anyone alive that dared to object to them, yet they were still the ones that were the subject of rumor. And all denied their own chance to spread something about another family. Philippos knew they had their own enemies and their own agenda to take care of. But, they all stood around with far too uptight glints in their eyes for the likes of the Commander. He finished off his cup of wine when the tray came near and placed the empty vessel to be taken away. Finally, he finished with a nod of his head. He was in no position to push the matter further than he already had. He would have been happy to snake through the room and be the social butterfly that he was. But, this was not what they wanted.
He gave a final nod to each before taking a step back. ”Try to enjoy the rest of the evening, Ladies, Lord.” Eye contact and a nod given to each the way that was due. Perhaps on another occasion he would have more to say. More to rebuttal what they had each brought to the table. Marrying a Prince made her marriage everyone’s business, especially since the eldest prince had yet to marry. The people had nothing more to worry about than what was going on between Zanon and Evras. Royals were not afforded the secrets that others were so entitled. However, now was not the time and if there was anything Philippos liked to avoid, it was intellectual or philosophical conversations of the root of why.
The night was growing late and he would find some unknown lady to bother as opposed to the ones so important as the Thanasi’s. It was poor form to sleep with more than one sister in a set anyhow. Philippos surprisingly avoided more alcohol as he meandered through the crowd to go find something more lively than court. He never felt at home and even more now wished he had begged on his knees to go to Taengea.
If there was one thing that made Evras feel contented sometimes, and protected, it was that she knew regardless of what happened or where she was, whenever she needed it, her family would come to her rescue. While she loved her husband, Zanon was a busy man who would not always be by her side, and Evras had to learn to live with that. It was why she constantly kept in contact with her siblings even after she had moved out upon marriage, and thanked her lucky stars that Zanon did not insist they stay constantly in Oroboea. While she had not intended to insult the Commander, and merely remind him that rumors were not welcomed within the court, rampant as they may be, her siblings seemed to think otherwise, obviously still protective over each other after her recent happenings with her own husband.
Thea's words were sharp, but Evras expected nothing less. She was as sharp and accurate as the snake that the siblings kept as pets, and when the cowering girls scuttled away due to Thea's sharp glare, as she often did when it came to the protection of their youngest sister, it was no surprise that Thea's sharp words cowed the rest of the female's in court.
Evras casted Mihail a sideways look, grinning at his attempt at glorifying his own role when the fire had hit the Lower Levels in Midas. In truth, he had came riding to bring Evras away, and while she was hard pressed to call him hero, in the most accurate sense of the word, for once she had to agree when Mihail said he was not completely useless. He had brought her to safety afterall.
Curling her fingers around Mihail's as if she was thanking him for his support (for she knew her youngest sibling had a favor for creating rumors himself, despite how much Evras had stated she did not fancy such a way of sowing distrust within the kingdom), she nodded, a small smile finally appearing for the young Commander. "Very true. But I do not favor bringing someone else down for the benefit of my own... at least, not another of my own acquaintences. That just seems to be a vicious, never ending circle of lies." Her words were by no means harsh, nor scolding. Evras was simply pointing out what she preferred, her own values in life as compared to others. Besides, as one on the receiving end of being gossiped about, she had no wish of that on anyone else.
With a respectful nod in return as the Commander stepped back, Evras turned back to her siblings, a sudden wave of tiredness hitting her. After many late nights, most of it due to her own husband's attention, it was no surprise that Evras was finding it harder to stay on her own feet as the hours drew late. Picking another chalice of wine as it passed by, the young, pale skinned girl sipped on it as the whispers flew across court, and minor chit chat was mingled with talk between lords and nobles of different provinces and Houses, all using the court as a means of reconnecting or making new connections.
"Nethis is due back by the end of next month, is she not?" she brought up the subject of their eldest brethren, who had just left for Taengea but a few days ago. It was odd not to have her around as a grounding factor, especially when their father went in one of their rages, but Evras was sure Dysius and Thea would be able to handle Dionysius. "We should have a dinner when she returns. It has felt much too long ever since I have seen everyone in a room."
His little escape with the lady of Peisistratos put him in much better mood, as compared to the rather quiet demeanour that Magnus had entered the hall in earlier. With their parting banter, the feel of her skin and her lips lingered on his, and while Magnus enjoyed her company in bed and her eagerness to join with him (for really, she was acting much like a virgin, but without the pressing need to marry for honor), he knew that Iolanthe was looking for more, and to press further on required careful thought.
As he slipped back in, his chiton just minorly askew and his hair back in its place after Iolanthe had rearranged it for him, Magnus casually strolled over to where the guards and footmen were. A hushed whisper had a few of the footmen running out to ready the carriage of the lady in question, before the Master Informer subtly reinserted himself into conversation within the halls and the nobility. He greeted a few he knew easily, and had an aim to create even more connections, as his plans solidified in his mind. By now, it was obvious that his lover was eager to solidify their connection, but marriage meant that Magnus would first have to seek out the audience of one Lord Timaeus of Valaoritis... which was a shame that he wasn't in attendance in court, really.
But had Timaeus been around, Magnus likely would not have been able to slip away with Iolanthe as they had done earlier.
His muscles felt sated, his mood in good spirits as he plucked a glass of golden mead from a passing servant, his hands behind his back. Wandering amongst the crowd, his eyes flicked for his sister, and smiled when he noticed Leto speaking still with the youngest prince of the Kotas family. Making a mental note to question her on what had transpired between herself and the prince in the brief interlude that he had gone, he was quick to respond as the Head of the noble house in a province summoned him to speak of matters which quickly had a few advisors of the crown joining. With the recent fire, much of the Colchian advisors had came together question on what else can be done to further enforce the safety of the mines and the people who work within it, and Magnus knew he had no end of work before him.