[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]“Well, he’s a little more foolish than most…” He quietly grumbled in response as he lost track of Sil in the crowd. Every instinct in his body said to go after him, but because Iolanthe was there, he held back. The troubles between the brothers would stay between the brothers as far as Timaeus was concerned and besides…. This was the first time he had seen Iolanthe in practically ten years. Running off after his brother would hardly be the polite thing to do at that moment.
However, after releasing a bit of the panicked stress that had built up in his chest in the last few moments with a deep sigh, he tried to find some solace in her words. Whatever he has done cannot be undone somehow. Silanos had dodged a bullet that night and he knew it. Tim would just have to hold some faith in the notion that Sil now had a new appreciation for the gift of life. He wouldn’t try to do anything as foolish as kissing a princess again, Tim was sure of that.
He glanced over at his cousin and gave a soft smile, “Yeah, I guess.” The words were simple, but it was a major realization for Tim as for the first time since he became the baron, he relinquished some of the control he had been given two years ago. Oh gods, he still could barely believe how quickly everything had changed. How old had Tim been when he had last seen Io? 13? 14? Now, he was a man of 24, head of his household, and a captain on top of all of that. She was just a few years older, but already a widow. On the surface, the children that they were had disappeared long ago, but Timaeus hoped that the close, almost sibling-like relationship that all the Valaoritis and Peisistratos siblings shared would still be there despite all of the other changes that had happened between them.
That’s why Tim was somewhat reluctant to be her guardian. Not because he didn’t necessarily want the task itself, in theory, it should be no different than what he had to do for Galatea, but instead, he dreaded the accountability that came with it. He could be cocky and self-assured in his abilities to determine the future of his cousin when meeting with his sister-in-law in private, but seeing Iolanthe again and knowing vaguely about how unhappy she was in lands afar… He didn’t want to be the one to put her into another miserable position for the sake of continuing her family lineage because Isidore was not capable of doing so. It was for that very reason he would eventually have to decide who her next husband would be and he could only hope that whoever it was, he could be capable of bringing the status and happiness that his beloved cousin deserved.
“No, no, -- it’s fine.” Timaeus hurriedly said as Io suggested that Galatea took on the task instead. “I already have a few ideas in mind, but you only just returned to us Io. We have plenty of time to handle these kinds of things at a later date.” He gave her hand a reassuring squeeze at this, hopefully setting both their minds to a bit of ease over the subject. When it came time for Io to remarry, he knew that Galatea would insist that her sister-in-law had a say. The decision would never be one that he made on his own. The Baroness would flay him if he did such a thing.
Hoping to change the subject to something more pleasant, Timaeus began to speak of something else, “You should see Rox now Io, she’s hardly the child --” His voice instinctively trailed off at the end as someone new approached the pair. Timaeus may not be the best with attaching names to faces, but he certainly could recognize voices… especially the ones that belonged to men that Timaeus struggled to find trust in.
He nodded curtly when Magnus of Chaossis made his presence known to the both of them. Surely at this moment, Io could feel Timaeus tense a bit when the master informer suggested relieving Timaeus of the responsibility of serving as Io’s guardian. Like Hades I would. He bitterly thought in silence. The young baron held no confidence in the man before him and for good reason. After all, would you have faith in a man whose job it is to know everything about you and every little thing you do before you are even are aware of it yourself? Given that the Valaoritis family just seemed to be plagued with rumors, especially in recent years, Timaeus being on friendly terms with the King’s secret keeper was an unlikely thing to see -- even if the wariness was one-sided.
Timaeus did not want this man anywhere near his cousin, immediately doubting his motives. This was only heightened when Timaeus realized that Magnus mentioned the troubles he was facing with Silanos, his eyes widening in response to his words. What on earth… how could he… He silently thought as his mind raced, struggling to come up with the reasoning for why Magnus could know about what happened that night at the Kotas manor. Of course, that was what his mind jumped to not even realizing that Magnus was talking about what had occurred a few moments ago in the market.
Either way, it was almost a guarantee that Tim was not going to hand over Io to him.
At that moment, Timaeus was ready to outright deny the Master Informer of what he wanted, but Io spoke before him. Much to his chagrin, she seemed eager to accept the Master Informer’s help. He bit his inner cheek as he considered what the two of them were presenting to the young lord. Io seemed to be eager to go to court with the master informer, but Timaeus had his obvious reservations. He personally thought it was a terrible idea to just hand his cousin off to some other man, especially since this had been the first time the two families had seen each other in ten years. Yet, he couldn’t risk offending the man, especially after what the baron had done. That would just be asking for Magnus to go digging into his past. Not an ideal option either.
“Thank you for the kind offer, Sir Magnus.” Timaeus said carefully as he tried to find the right words that would temporarily appease everyone involved at that moment, “But Io --Lady Iolanthe -- has only just returned to Colchis and I know her family has missed her so. I believe it would be unwise for her to attend court so soon.” He gave a soft smile and he nervously glanced over at his cousin, worried that she might contradict him. After all, refusing to listen seemed to be a common trait within the Valaoritis/Peisistratos family lines. All the boys had it, Roxana did as well, and it would just be Tim’s luck that Io would as well.
In an attempt to not upset her, Timaeus hastily added, “However, we will sure to remember your generous offer for the future, if you’d still be willing.” The young baron secretly hoped that this would never be the case, but the stern promise Galatea forced upon him still rang true in his mind. Whatever he decided to do, Io’s happiness was to come first. As much as it pained him, the two of them seemed to have a pleasant history together. The Arcanes baroness would have his hide if word got back to her that Io was unhappy and it was Tim’s fault.
So, as much as he regretted the words before they even left his mouth, Timaeus added one final offer to the king’s secret keeper, “I’m sure though that Lady Iolanthe would be delighted if you joined us for the rest of the night’s activities, Sir Magnus.”
Oh, Timaeus could only pray that neither of them saw through his false smile.
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]While it may not be obvious to others, Magnus of Chaossis was no simple man of common-born folk. He had trained for years, and as such could note the subtle shift of atmosphere at his entrance into the conversation - most notably from the young baron himself, even as he bestowed the lady by his side a charming, almost beguiling smile, as was his habit.
Glad to see that the lady had recognized him, Magnus dipped his head again to affirm that it was indeed him, before letting out a congenial laugh at her praise. "You are too kind my lady, and I could say the same to you. In fact, the years have bestowed you with even greater beauty." he murmured, eyes twinkling with humor and appreciation before turning to her cousin, the one he knew to be a baron of Eubocris, and a vassal of the Kotas family which therefore meant that Magnus had no need to worry regarding this baron. His duty as Master Informer was to protect the crown, and with the Valaoritis' reputed to be highly loyal to the royal family, the spymaster had no need to worry, and appeared quite relaxed (as compared to his usual self anyway) as he greeted the baron.
The curt nod he was offered in return caught Magnus off-guard, but he did not let it show. His mind raced however, was it was wont to do, searching for a reason and failing to see why the baron had a cold attitude towards him. Had he done something? No, Magnus was careful to keep delicate relations due to the nature of his job... yet why the behavior then?
Easily letting his smile slip back in place when Iolanthe seem to agree with is idea, one so warm it was almost as if the two had been friends for years, just before the baron spoke.
"Ah, I see. Fair point." he murmured, hiding the mild pang of disappointment well enough behind his slow nod of his head. "Well then, should you change your mind, any runner in the city would know where to find me. I set sail two days hence from today, and would be happy to have Lady Iolanthe as my companion - it would serve to brighten up an otherwise dreary trip. It has been one I have made one too many times, perhaps." At this, he turned to the widowed noble lady and offered a light wink, a teasing smile playing on his lips. "And I had thought I would be able to show the lady the beautiful rolling hills of Taengea. Next time, perhaps? I only wish to see a smile on the pretty lady's face."
A chortle escaped him, easily identifying the hasty way in which Timaeus attempted to paste up his rejection of the master informer - was he afraid of him then? Finding it a curious morsel, he made a point to ask his informants on further knowledge in regards to the baron and his family, and instead nodded, taking him up on his offer. "Shall we, Lady Iolanthe? I do believe the dancing has just started." Magnus offered an arm and bent so the smaller sized female could take it.
Maeva wasn’t interested in the festivities or the influx of new traders -- the dancing, perhaps, if someone caught her eye. What she was mingling among the crowds for was information. She wanted to know where the merchants and traders were contracted from, what they were selling, and how they had come to arrive on the Colchian shores.
The storm had wreaked havoc upon the city, there was no disputing that, and the economy had definitely taken a hit as a result. Maeva had used this to her advantage in some ways, and in others she was still trying to rebuild a rather integral piece of her network that had been severed.
She had agents working the streets, people who knew her only as the Black Swan and by no other name or image. They were learning the new faces to manipulate just as she was. Maeva wanted to learn more than just that, however, she wanted the weaknesses. Every city, no matter how fortified, had its Achilles heel. It was only a matter of finding just where it was.
Maeva had always been a planner. The future was a great unknown, it was best to be prepared for anything. And plans were something she had in abundance. She was always calculating and trying to keep herself two steps ahead. Often she was successful. Perhaps that was why the failing economy hadn’t affected her as much as it had others. Whatever the case, she knew her luck wouldn’t last. A poor economy was bad for business, and she had to admit the new stock in terms of travelers was promising. She was sure she could put some of these seafarers to good use.
She was currently searching for a stall to get a bite to eat. All the sleuthing could be quite tiring work.
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]Thea has never been fond of crowds, and her disgruntle increased tenfold when it came to elitists gathered under one roof. Sure the open market was aimed to surge the slowly healing economy of Colchis while generating goodwill and morale. But honestly, with the public announcement that members of the royal house of Kotas would make an appearance themselves? She would be a fool if a hoard of nobles did not show up to attempt to make an impression with the ruling family, or if not then to network among themselves.
However, her expression softened when she dwelled on a certain Kotas that she was fond of. Her sweet little sister, Evras, would be there alongside with her husband and their son, too. Even if she did hold a certain level of distaste for Zanon due to the anguish and resentment he had caused for her sibling, Thea would entertain him if it meant she could check on Evie. And she supposed it would not hurt to stock up on more herbs, essential oils, and dried animal parts. Their market prices were at a lower point compared to before the storm. Besides, the position of a royal family as the host and sponsor for this whole shindig was definitely more than enough to sweeten the pot for the merchants and traders there. They would probably sell for publicity more than actual profits at this point.
And that was how Thea found herself and Ophion browsing the bustling streets of the Lower Levels of the city. Occasionally, she would motion for her male companion to make a turn for a stall. He would do the haggle, something he had learned to do well after following her around enough to acquaint himself with the price ranges for most common plants and fauna. Meanwhile, Thea would just point at things she wanted while keeping an eye out for her sister.
[attr="class","ic_maintag"]
[attr="class","ic_threadtype"]Open
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[attr="class","ic_ooc"]Anyone who would want to interact with Thea, you are more than welcome to approach her!
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]Everyone seemed to be having their own conversations now and Lazaros felt as if he was more intruding than anything. He looked around and let his eyes lay on each of the member of the royal family, doing a conscious head count. All were accounted for that he could see, except Athanasia. He did not make a move to do anything yet as he remember that the two girls had wandered off to the listen to the music and enjoy the dancing and had taken Nike with them. With a silent sigh of relief he stood there a bit longer, hearing bits and pieces of the conversations going on around him. In that moment, Laz felt a bit out of place and decided to take a walk around the stalls. He took a moment and brought in a deep breath, smelling all the fresh baked goods. His stomach seemed to ache for something now and with that he began walking towards where the princess and Nike had gone.
Pressing forward, he made his way through the maze of people to where he had heard the music. Looking around, Laz was unable to see Nike at first but then found the commander with Dion in tow. He was unsure what was happening but noticed the look at unhappiness on the his face. The two young ladies must have given him the slip or he was unable to spot them in the crowd. It wasn't really a surprise really, given with how many people were now gathering around to dance. Normally Lazaros would be more concerned but was there a reason to be? This was suppose to be a happy time and even Vangelis seemed okay with them being out there. He was sure they were in the crowd and if they needed help they would make it known.
Trying to remind himself that he didn't need to worry, Lazaros stopped by one of the food stalls and bought some salted fish. He found an empty place off to the side where he leaned up against the wall. His blue eyes scanned the crowd again while he took a bite of the fish. Lazaros had always loved fish and it was one of his favorite food. As he took a bite, he finally saw them, "There you two are," he spoke quietly under his breath.
Even though the commander had found them, he wasn't about to ruin their fun. He saw the smiles on their faces and decided to let them have it. It couldn't be easy to be royal, he thought to himself. He couldn't even begin to imagine what they had to deal with everyday. Lazaros knew his life wasn't one of luxury but he felt as though he had a good life. He was serving his King and one day he would be baron over his lands. "Maybe these royals can teach me a thing or two about life outside of the military." Scoffing at his own thoughts, he pushed them aside. This wasn't the place to contemplate life.
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]Having sucessfully dragged Asia, over to the dancing, Imeeya smiled as the music began and the dancing started. She was determined to enjoy this evening no matter what happened and what questionable choices the princess made. There was something about dancing that could always raise her spirits. The graceful movement and poise required for dance came naturally to her, and she didn’t fear embarassment from a mistep. Those who would mock someone for making a mistake during a fun activity were too petty for her to care about their opinion. Therefore she could enjoy herself and just allow the music to wash over her, instead of worrying about every step as some might.
By the time the choreia ended, Imeeya found herself fully enjoying the festivities again, with all thoughts of anger at her cousin swept out of her head at the jovial dancing. Yet, Imeeya wasn’t sure she was ready to face a conversation with her cousin again so soon. She was luckily saved from this fate by the musicians striking up the tune to a partnered dance. If Imeeya had to go find a partner, then she wouldn’t have to deal with Asia just yet. She scanned the nearby crowd looking for a potential partner, when she spotted a familiar face from before.
Lord Lazaros was standing alone off to the side of the dancing. He seemed to have lost the rest of the group and was just standing to the side and not joining in. He looked almost as if he might be a little lonely. Well, it was time that she did something to fix that, and show him the proper hospitality of the city.
As Imeeya picked her way through the crowd over towards the commander, avoiding the dancers who had already joined in the steps to the new music. As she approached Lazaros, she saw that he was in the middle of enjoying some of the food from the market. Well, if he finished it quickly enough, they still might be able to get back to the dancing in enough time to join in the next dance.
“Lord Lazaros,” Imeeya smiled as she reached the commander. “I was hoping you might do me the honor of joining me for a dance. That is, once you’ve finished eating of course.” Imeeya looked down at the food as she spoke and then back up at Lazaros earnestly.
Briefly Asia’s taunts from earlier entered Imeeya’s mind. She wasn’t flirting, she told herself sternly, she was just trying to ensure that the commander had a good time. Besides, even if she was, Asia had no place to talk after the stunt she had pulled. There was no harm in asking a nice handom man to dance, after all. It didn’t have no mean anything more than just that, a dance.
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]Arm tucked in the crook of her husband's elbow, Evras continued strolling down the streets of the festival, the music getting louder with people more raucous and boisterous as the night dipped to a later hour. At some point, her feet would begin to hurt, and as it was now, Evras found her neck heavy, her eyelids dipping lower as they walked. The woman partially leaned on Zanon's shoulder as they walked, a sure sign she was getting tired, yet as her eyes roamed the streets, until she brightened up when she spotted a familiar dark head.
The love between the Thanasi siblings were always evident. There would always be a certain extent of healthy fear or respect they had for respect, but when it came to the rest, there was much affection between the siblings. Evras was particularly close to Thea, the elder sister of the two playing somewhat of a maternal figure, the kind that Nethis fell short of due to the eldests' need to scheme for their House's glory.
It was Thea she had followed to that first show where she had met Zanon, and it was also Thea that Evras would go to for comfort each time her husband lashed out at her. She had told her sister via a missive all about what had happened a week or so ago before they had reconciled, but while she knew Thea tolerated Zanon for her sake (as did Mihail and Dysius), she also knew better then to push her luck.
So when the dark haired female saw her sister in between the people at a vendor, she straightened her spine, and whispered in Zanon's ear that she would be right back, pressing a kiss to her husband's cheek before slipping off. Navigating through the people that milled around purchasing items, Evras called her sister's name before laying a hand on Thea's shoulder, and grinned as she pulled her elder sibling into an embrace.
"I have missed you, Thea." was Evras's first murmur, taking a step back and with a nod at her sister's guard, a constant presence by her side. Watching the wares she had the male take, an interest glint shone in her eyes, the matters of herbs and healing techniques of interest to her, yet something she could not take up due to position of birth. "Are you stocking up then?" and then she turned back to her sister, eager look in her eyes. "How is father? and our brothers? I know Mihail won't be here, he's said as much. Is Dysius around?"
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]Thea's eyes remained fixated on the myriad of vegetations before her own, hands clutching the soft cloak around herself close as the night began to breathe breezes down on the city of Midas. Much as the air had grown crisp, the pedestrians flooding the market did not seem the least bit disheartened. Chatter and music could be heard from every corner of the streets. Light from lanterns bounced off the stone walls, the playful licks of flames danced just as lively as the humans among them. She had to hand credit where it was due. The Kotas really had hosted a lovely festival this time around, one that ignited a sense of effervescence this place so desperately needed after the storm tore it apart.
Amidst the teeming waves of buyers and vendors, Thea noticed a sihoulette constantly gaining on her and Ophion out of her peripheral vision. Just as she made a move to fully turn around, a gentle hand clasped on her shoulders. It was Evras. Her amber eyes softened at the sight of her younger sister. At last, her idling around was not unfruitful. The person she longed to see was finally here.
"Evie", she murmured as she leaned into the tender embrace, her hand stroking over the hair on Evras's back three times. This had been the way Thea hugged all of her younger siblings. Well, Evras and Mihail at least, the more approachable of the lots. Dysius was too proud of her hugs ever since puberty hit, or attempted to hit him and everything showed for it but his stature. It was never confirmed, but Thea had always had a sneaking suspicion that he harbored disdain towards her hugs after Mihail haughtily commented that they looked like mother and son. "You really liking Mama's breasts, huh, Didi?", were vaguely his words when he poked fun at his older brother's limited height that only allowed him to reach her chest then.
A ghost of a smile blossomed on Thea's lips as she gingerly pulled away from Evras, the memories of a fuming teenaged Dysius still at the back of her mind. The shopkeeper and Ophion, having then looked up and recognized who just made an appearance, immediately bowed. A chorus of "Your Majesty" echoed as they dipped their heads further to express respect at Evras' presence. Seeing how their garnered attention could meddle with their conversation, Thea flicked her hand in a dismissive manner, signaling for her bodyguard to keep the trader occupied.
At her sister's question, she glanced at the humble tent behind them. "Stocking up, partially.", she concurred as her eyes studied the features of her beloved Evie. Her little sister seemed well, as well as someone could be compared to how perturbed and shaken she was when she came to Thea a week ago. Was that why she left Zanon behind, to save him the scrunity? Her thoughts raced through her mind, but on the outside Thea nonchalantly picked a feverfew from the pot on the display stand. "Father's..., she hummed, "physically superb." Though the same could hardly be said about his mental being. A couple eves ago when she brought him dinner in his personal chamber, Dionysios flipped the tray at her and called her "Ulla" repeatedly before transgressing into a tyrade.
Thea then quietly chuckled at the mention of their brothers. Mimi was too fancy for this, that part was true. "Disyus wouldn't make time for a commoner's market, no. But then again, there is nothing common about the royal sponsors of this festivity, isn't there?" Her full lips grazed the flower in her hand with a light kiss before tucking it into Evras' hair. Her fingers smoothed the silky locks over while she turned the topic onto her sister. "I hope marriage life is treating you well, Evie." It wa.s a statement, but underneath it was Thea's wordless question. How was the prince acting towards her now? Was life at the palace still the same old thinly-veiled suffocation Thea had perveived it to be?
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]She should've gotten used to the 'Your Majesties' at this point, eleven years down her marriage. Yet Evras could not shake her habit of nodding in return each time someone dipped into a respectful bow to her, one that far surpassed the ones she would receive when she was merely a noble daughter of the Thanasi household.
Thea's embrace provided some measure of comfort to Evras and her oddly tired bones -her sister's embraces always did, the soothing stroke of the elder one's hands a familiar sense that brought her back to her childhood. The dark-haired maiden smiled as she looked over the herbs and supplies Thea had asked for her guards to put together. Her eyes flicked back to the elder one, and then Evras raised a brow. She highly doubted Dionysius was as superb as Thea warranted it to be, but she also knew that their father's health was not something the siblings discussed openly - not when it would upset the hierarchy of the Thanasi household.
So, Evras merely nodded in response, making a note to return home to visit their patriarch the next chance she had.
"I would think Nethis would have asked him to attend - get information from watching or some sort." Evras replied with an amused smile. The pale fae laughed lightly as her sister tucked the flower behind her ear, the bright red bloom contrasting beautifully with her pale skin, matching the red paint she had slathered on her lips before hurriedly leaving the Kotas mansion with her husband.
"It.... is now." Instinctively, Evras looked out at the crowd to where her husband was, and a soft, affectionate smile turned her lips upwards as her gaze settled on his handsome visage. She had never stopped loving Zanon, really. They were just... disjointed for a moment in time. "We're fine now, Thea. Truly. In more ways than one." the last sentence had a certain sense of insinuation as Evras winked at her sister, hiding a laugh. "And you, Thea? What have you been up to of late?"
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]In spite of the time spent apart, it was easy for Zanon to fall back into their usual rhythms, pick up on little things that might have escaped his notice before. The more she leaned on him the more he adjusted to carry her weight, turning to press occasional kisses to the top of her head and generally making sure his hands were on her at all times. When they stood to talk with one vendor his arm went to the small of her back, sliding around her waist to rest against her hip as they once again moved on. Another moment saw him with both arms wrapped around her shoulders, holding her close in a manner far more possessive than would normally be seen in public. They had slept for so long after their latest bout of passion, he hadn’t thought she would be so quickly exhausted by their voyage to the festival, but he supposed it wouldn’t hurt to leave early. After all, this was a celebration of Vangelis, and now that they had made an appearance they wouldn’t be missed.
”Let’s make our way back. We can take the carriage home, let Dion run about with Asia and my brothers watch him.”
He didn’t anticipate any sort of protest from his wife until he spotted the familiar dreaded black locks of the Thanasi family as soon as she did. Scowling openly, he tightened his grip on Evras for a moment before releasing her with a terse nod. He tried to pay attention to the vendor but his focus kept wandering until he finally gave up and excused himself, crossing his arms and standing aside to watch the sisters interact. Of all of the Thanasi, Thea was the least offensive of the lot, but as she kissed a flower and placed it in Evras’ hair Zanon could feel a rush of old fear race through him. It wasn’t a spell. He had to keep reminding himself of that. His love for his wife was true. There was no magic about it.
Dion ran back through the crowd smiling widely, pausing to greet his father before chasing off after one of his companions, the son of another noble who frequented court and was of age with the young heir. It warmed him to see the boy having such a good time, with friends and family about him and shown for the kingdom to see for as strong and healthy as he was. If he was to only have one child, he was truly blessed by the gods. After Dion had vanished from sight though, Zanon turned his attention sharply back to the Thanasi women, uncrossing his arms and consciously trying not to clench his fists as he did so.
”Lady Thea.” His tone was stiff and his posture tense as he subtly tried to move between his wife and her sister, a protective and possessive gesture that was no doubt entirely unnecessary. ”Evras, I believe we are ready to return home. The carriage should be prepared.”
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]Even though Thea consciously kept her answers evasive and cryptic, just how she preferred them be when she had to discuss family matters outside the comfort of the Thanasi household, her eyes twinkled when Evras appeared to catch on to what she did not directly vocalize. Her siblings had grown accustomed to her speaking manners by now, she would implore. Usually, if this conversation had taken place behind closed doors, maybe she would have been more transparent with her words. But they were in an open market, surrounded by hundreds of people with peeping eyes and raised ears. Even if these instrusive peasants had been privy onto the exchange between Thea and Evras, they would not have learned anything. All they would hear is that the rightful leader of their family was still as healthy as a horse, and that Disyus, the temperamental heir, may or may not be afloat in the sea of vendors and buyers currently occupying half of Midas.
But her younger sibling, her sweet Evras, she knew. Thea sincerely could not grasp how some individuals perceived her as a "sit still, look pretty" damsel. Perhaps Evras possessed the kind of beauty that screamed fragility and innocence, but the girl was also as sharp as a tack, or at least more witted than a lot of noble women out there. Thea could almost hear the sound of gears turning inside Evie's head, her lips pursing just the slightest bit as her head cocked to the side when she heard how their father was supposedly in tip-top shape. As if knowing what she was undoubtedly thinking, the dark-haired belle gave her sister's arm a gentle squeeze. Her heart strings tugged a bit at the light-hearted laugh escaping the younger woman. "Do visit sometimes." The words were not much to convey Thea's yearn for her to come home, but she knew Evras would understand.
Then Thea's amber orbs followed her sister's gaze. Evras' tone had taken on a more pensive note, it did not seem like it was painted in any negative connotations. Quiet love would be what she called it. But the way her Evie devoted herself to Zanon was anything but quiet. Their marriage was loud and tear-jerking, full of ups and downs to the involved individuals. On certain occasions, Thea would call it hysteria even. Evras could do with some reflective peace right now. Regardless, that irking sensation was still prickling on her side. A part of her was apprehensive that this was just the calm before the storm. Nonetheless, for the sake of her sister, Thea put on a calm face. She had made her concerns known multiple times, thus she would not rain on her sibling's parade. Evras deserved this one break her strained marriage was enjoying. Therefore, Thea returned the chuckle with an exasperated expression, wordlessly shaking her head when she comprehended the innuendo Evras was hinting at.
Thea was gonna respond to Evras' question about her state of affairs, but then she noticed Zanon gaining in on them. Despite him being a decent distance away, she could sense the unspoken vehement he was radiating. However, she was far from unnerved. He was a prince, that much was true, but she would go to bat against anyone for her family, especially a person who had wronged them so deeply. The second prince of Kotas fitted that category particularly well. Hence, she met his intense eyes with her head held high, her striking golden eyes unfearful and unwavering. In her mind, he had no rights to act dignified and self-righteous, not after he had betrayed Evras. In a concealedly contemptuous manner, Thea took a step back to let Zanon cut in between them. "Prince Zanon.", she courtly uttered, dainty fingers lifting the seams of her dress up as her knees dipped in a bow. However, she maintained a straight face and a leveled look, void of any sincere submission. Behind her, Ophion and the shopkeeper assumed the same position. The only subtle difference was that they did seem genuinely respectful towards the man before them.
Before any of them could defuse the tension in the air, the savior came rushing in the tiny form of a certain boy named Dion. "Auntie Thea!!!, the young lad jovially shouted, his legs working as fast as they could to sprint to where the triad of adults were. In a joyous fashion, the child then clammed his arms around Thea's torso and peered up at her with glee. She traded a glance with Evras and Zanon before bowing down to Dion's height and tenderly caressed his hair. "My nephew has grown so big and strong.", she noted with an endearing gaze. She did not indulge the boy's father, yes, but at the end of the day her nephew was family. She loved the little kid dearly, and he did her.
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]“Hurry up slowpoke!” Babis of Eliades called over his shoulder with a laugh as the young boy zoomed past his two friends; one of whom was his mirror image, the other being the prince of Colchis. “Aras is it! Aras is it!” He shouted with glee as the boys turned corners and ducked through the crowd, much the chagrin of everyone they passed. However, the boys didn't care. Being only 11 and 12, they didn't care much for anyone's opinions while they were having their fun.
Today was a game of tag, made more exciting by the festival at night, a time they normally were not allowed to run around like this. However, this was a night of fun and with them being children, this was the very definition of a thrilling night.
Being a skilled runner, the Eliades boy was easily able to outrun his twin and the prince. It was all fine and dandy, of course as it promised he would never be it. However, it was still a bit dull when you were running around on his own. After noticing that he was alone, Babis searched the crowd for either of the other boys. Dion's dark hair was easier to spot and without thinking, Babis zoomed over to the younger boy.
“Dion!” The youngest Eliades shouted as he skidded to a stop behind the young prince, completely unaware of the fact that he was now with his family. “Come on! Before Aras catches -- oh.” The excitement in his voice came to a sudden halt as he realized who else was in his friend's company. He self-consciously glanced down at his disheveled chiton which was a disaster within itself from the boys’ romp through the market. Being the more athletic of the trio --Babis, Aras, and Dion-- his outfit was naturally more wrinkled and the edges of the cloth was splattered in mud and torn in some places. Not to mention the fact his hair was all about his face, windswept from his mad dash through the streets earlier.
This was hardly the appearance that was acceptable when greeting the prince and princess of Colchis.
“Prince Zanon. Lady Evras. Lady Thea.” He said to them, greeting them with a well rehearsed bow and comment. “It is a pleasure to see you.” It was a brief moment of calm before the chaos that always followed the Eliades boys would be unleashed. The pair of parents may know the signs as their son spent so much time with the twins. However, the younger twin doubted that even they could tell the boys apart, so before the question could even be asked, the boy provided an answer as he rocked back and forth on his feet. “I'm Babis.” It was a common query and as one half of a mirrored pair, he liked getting it out of the way immediately.
He bit his inner cheek in impatience as he glanced back over his shoulder, nervous that his brother would soon turn the corner and ruin the game because they were stuck in small talk. Babis did not want that to happen. Or even worse… the longer he stood there, the more likely it was that Prince Vangelis would show up. The general terrified Babis and he did not want to run into him without Aras by his side. So, he quickly turned to his friend and hissed, “Come on Dion, Aras is it! He's gonna find us here!” He glanced back at Evras, having grown used to her being the chief parent over all things Dion. Surely, she would see how important it was to not be caught by “it.”
He could almost see his grandmother's glare as he realized how rude the other adults could find that statement, “Of course, only if it's alright for him to do so.” The boy gave them all a hopeful grin, hoping that they would shoo the both of them off to go have their fun.
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]Her sister's call to visit struck a chord with Evras - she did want to visit as often as she could. It was ironic, for the Thanasi household was not a far carriage ride from one another, but with the cautious way the two families danced around each other despite the marriage of herself with Zanon, Evras constantly found herself torn between the two, and there was no doubt that Dion would find himself in the same position as well. The woman wanted to avoid her son going through the same... yet try as she may, she can't seem to find a solution. She missed being able to spend more time with her siblings... but she doubted she'd be able to be apart from her husband either.
Evras squeezed Thea's hands, but before her sister could respond, the first indication she had of her husband's arrival was the sudden way in which the two guards behind Thea stood at rapt attention. Only when Thea dipped into a bow, did Evras look behind, a brief smile lightening up her features as she looked at the frame of her husband approaching them.
Instinctively, Evras reached out to him, and yet her brows furrowed when he shifted to stand between herself and Thea. It was an action that made a pang go through Evras, a reminder that like it or not, her family and her husband would never be able to wholly get along. This tentative, tenuous agreement to stay at an impasse was the best she could get, the tension so thick as Zanon greeted her sister. Biting her lip, Evras was saved from replying when the gangly, eleven year old form of her son came running up to greet his aunt. Since he had started his military training with his uncles, he had began to fill out some, and Evras suspected her son would lose his skinny figure soon.
Laughing when Dion made a face at his aunt's endearments. He had learned to want to be tough under the military tutelage, and while Evras has had to deal with losing her son's childhood, she also knew that Zanon was right in his choice to take Dion for his training. As her son untangled himself from Thea, another small whirldwind in the name of Babis came running up breathless - clear indication enough as to who exactly Dion had been playing with when he disappeared in the crowds. Or was this Aras? With the twins, Evras could never be sure.
The young noble male did prove to be a sigh, with mud on an askew chiton - but it was a sight Evras was familiar with, and she only wore an amused smile when young Babis (or Aras) suddenly looked absolutely stricken at the sight he was now showing to the royals of his kingdom. Watching when the young Eliades spoke to Dion, and at how obviously eager her son was to get back to the game, Evras was loathe to take him away - Zanon had said he would be watched over by his family.
So in return to the young noble, Evras smiled gently, and nodded. "Of course - please do return Dion to the presence of Prince Vangelis before you retire for the night, would you young man?" she replied gently, before turning to Thea. "I'm afraid I'll have to take my leave, sister. I find myself quite tired after a turn about the markets." Taking a step away from Zanon, she leaned in to press a quick kiss to Thea's cheeks. "I shall visit soon, I promise."
With that, the woman turned back to her husband, stepping back so she could thread her arm through his. "Let's go, husband." Allowing him to lead her back to the carriage, the woman stayed closed to the male as he weaved through the crowds, head leaning on his shoulder. Perhaps it was the fact that she now felt the most at ease she's been at for the past three years, but Evras could not think of a better place to be in then in her bed for now, and was quite eager to return home.
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]At last, Midas began to look like itself again following the storm. There were many hands that put in the labor and the coin to fix what had been destroyed, and now there was a celebration, a festival of sorts. It was a lovely change of pace and the young woman had been looking forward to it the entire week leading up to the event, riding around throughout the day to see the merchants setting up their booths and the banners being hung from the windows.
Now that the day had arrived, Leto was thrilled. In a world where she was learning to navigate new little intricacies of the upper class, there was nothing quite like an event where she could just be somebody in a crowd.
It took several rounds of persuasion, but at last, Magnus agreed to join her. Of course, she would have gone regardless, but with a voyage to Taengea forthcoming, she was nearly desperate to spend more time with him. The past several years had rekindled their closeness and seemed to fill the void that had been left in the years they were apart, but not without a significant change in shape. His responsibilities required there to be distinct boundaries in what they could and could not say. Her curiosity often got the better of her, and her loose tongue often asked questions that were beyond her reach. Naturally, he knew her loose tongue well and was loathe to give her much in the way of information that was better kept behind tight lips. It had been tumultuous in the first few years of living in Midas, but they had finally found a balance where she could learn things from him that would help her in her inevitable first appearance at court without risking his position or her pride.
Today, though, was a day without those worries. Dressed in a pale blue pelpos with a dark blue trim, she felt neither overdressed or underdressed, but she did enjoy the feel of the new fabric against her skin. Her hair, though, as it always did, fought her endlessly, and as close as she could come to taming it was to take two bone combs and to pin the sides away from her face. Even then, several curls had already managed to free themselves in the seaside breeze.
Magnus had claimed a spot not far from the courtyard where the dances began, and after watching a few of the more complex dances finish, she finally took a breath and stepped in for a round or two. Not the most graceful of creatures, she did her best to keep within the rhythm and not to collide head on with anyone for the most part. She may not have been a very good or skilled dancer, but she did enjoy it.
As the dance came to a close, she took a moment to catch her breath and to look towards Magnus only to find him deep in conversation with two others. From their clothing and jewelry alone, she could tell they were nobles. It was something about the way they carried themselves, holding their heads high and their backs straight. Magnus had mastered such an air over the years, and in many ways, she envied it. Though he had worked so long and hard to build such a life, she still felt the small claws of jealousy over all of the time he had to learn such things. Would it take her just as long to learn to do the same?
By the gods, she hoped not. At that rate, she would be an old maid.
Taking a moment to look around, there were some distinct faces she recognized without a shadow of a doubt - the royalty. From a distance, she had seen Prince Vangelis and Prince Zanon, as well as his wife and child. There were two other small ones she was unfamiliar with as it went along. She would be lying if she said she was familiar with all the names of the noble houses at court by this point, and looking at their names on a genealogical chart was not helpful in social situations. Perhaps it was the strain of perfectionism within her, but she just did not feel comfortable possibly calling someone by the wrong name or title.
Finally catching her breath, she shifted away from the dancing circle for a moment to find a bit of refreshment, and possibly to find some for her brother as well. A merchant nearby sold a light wine, made from pale grapes and mixed with honey. She ordered two and took a quick sip of her own before turning towards where her brother once stood, now taking the arm of the noblewoman he had been conversing with and starting towards the dancing circle. Her brows raised for a moment, wondering who exactly she must be.
"Magnus, here," she said, stepping up to them and offering a chalice, "It's delicious. I thought you might want some." After a moment, she smiled down at the young brunette woman who was clearly older than her but far smaller, and curtsied, softly saying, "My Lady?" In her position, it was always safe to curtsy as if anyone was a royal, given her brother's circles. Feeling a touch awkward for a moment, she glanced down at her own cup, then to her brother, then to the lady before her before offering it out to her. "Would you care for some as well?"
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]Aras had never been as speedy as his younger brother. Where Babis had always been the athlete, he was more the scholar, and though he enjoyed every game the pair of them played together, and every activity they dragged Dion into, he had always preferred the quieter ones. When it came to tag, however, he was normally more than happy to make an exception. It was one of their favourite games, and they very rarely had an opportunity like this one. Perhaps they were nothing short of a frustration to everyone else who was attempting to enjoy themselves that evening but neither of the twins had every really been too bothered about those matters when they were so distracted by their own fantasy world.
Somehow, he always ended up It.
Babis was much faster than he, and it wasn't long before he had disappeared into the crowds. Dion too had managed to vanish somewhere or other, and Aras scoured the masses to try and catch sight of either of them once again. His pace had slowed to a walk to make weaving through all those present easier as he glanced around in search of his brother and friend. It took a moment before his eyes landed on that familiar face, so identical to his own that it would be impossible to miss. Babis was never It, Aras never managed to catch him, which was why, now, seeing him stopped and vulnerable and so obviously distracted by Dion, he took the chance of a lifetime and ran for him, grabbing his brother from behind as though to shock him. "Babis is It!" he shouted out, grinning brightly as he clasped the other's shoulder. "You never thought I'd manage to catch you, huh? Shouldn't have stopped."
All too suddenly, he came to a realisation of why his brother had stopped running from him, and he lowered his head apologetically at the adults before them. Aras didn't exactly plan to embarrass himself in front of Dion's parents. At least his own chiton was a little tidier than Babis's, less dirtied and less rumpled from less sprinting through the streets.
"Your Highnesses," he greeted his friend's parents, elongating the final syllable of the word for a moment, before adding to the greeting as he tried to smile at Dion's aunt, almost pretending he hadn't just been running about causing chaos. "My Lady."
Luckily, Princess Evras had always been nice and she was quick to let them run off and return to their games. Her request was a little unnerving - Aras didn't exactly like having to interact with Prince Vangelis unless he completely had to; the man was terrifying - but, being the oldest of the twins, he was the one people usually looked to for responsibility. "Don't worry about Dion. We'll make sure he gets back to his uncle." He waited for the princess to turn away again before looking back at Babis. "Bet you can't catch me and Dion!"
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]Iolanthe pursed her lips at her cousin’s reactions, her brow raising as the boy she had known ten years ago suddenly made an appearance instead of the noble baron who had been present moments earlier. Blinking slowly and leaving her hand on the arm of the master informer, the woman made it quite clear from her expression that she didn’t much like the way his line of thinking was going. If she had the opportunity to travel to another kingdom to seek a suitable husband, one that might even care for her instead of seeing her as another sort of burden who couldn’t bring him any other children or joy, she would take it whatever the cost. Of course there were still choices in Colchis, but while the opportunity presented itself, there was no reason for her to deny it.
“A dance, sounds lovely. Timaeus, I shall see you later no doubt.” The promise of beautiful rolling hills was enticing, and though she would miss Galatea and her time spent at home in Arcanes, she had to do this for herself and the barony. The sooner she wed, the sooner the succession would be secured and the sooner she could try to prove to herself that it wasn’t her fault her children had all died, that it wasn’t all her failing.
She had stepped alongside Magnus for a moment, opening her mouth to ask a question before a very tall and beautiful woman stepped up to them and spoke familiarly with the man at her side. Releasing her hand on his arm, Iolanthe stepped back slightly and smiled politely, waiting for someone to introduce her. Perhaps it was his wife? A lover or a friend? Then she looked between the two and saw the eyes. Siblings? They both had the same sort of piercing blue eyes that were very much intimidating if they looked at one for too long a time.
Smiling as she was offered the cup, Iolanthe shook her head and looked up at the younger woman curiously. “Thank you, but no. I apologize if I am intruding, I didn’t realize I would be taking you away from a companion, Magnus. I should return to my cousin, so as not to impose.”
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]It was to the male's relief that the lady seemed to be agreeable to his invitation to dance - quite a contrast from the antsy way the baron seemed to be looking at him. Watching Iolanthe's reaction to Timaeus's reluctance to allow her with him to Taengean, Magnus suspected that he may well have a companion after all. For now however, he would let sleeping dogs lie, and smiled with a small dip of his head as the baron left their company, leaving him momentarily alone with the love lady.
Intending to lead her to the main area where the music and atmosphere was at its most jovial, he fell in step next to the brunette, only to be stopped when the familiar figure of his sister drew up next to them, an appearance that almost immediately brought a smile to the male's lips. There was no doubt to anyone who looked or knew of their family, that Magnus doted greatly on his sister. They've had their growing pains, but through it all, Leto had been one of his main motivations for him to work as hard as he did, and there was little he would not give to his only sibling.
Taking the chalice she offered with a doting smile, he nodded his thanks, and watched with a tinge of pride shining in his eyes as his sister curtsied to Iolanthe. He knew she's had a difficult time fitting in ever since he had uprooted their whole family to stay in Midas, but he hoped that in doing so, he'd allow more opportunities to present themselves to Leto. He wanted his sister to have the best life he could possibly give, and Magnus would stop at nothing.
Noting the pause when his sister seemed to be at a loss of what to do, the spymaster smoothly stepped in, and offered his chalice to Iolanthe instead, his smile as smooth as butter. "We'll share, Leto. You shouldn't be imbibing that much." The words were said with a hint of a tease, and Magnus chuckled, before gesturing at Iolanthe. "This is Lady Iolanthe of Pesisistratos, cousin to Baron Timaeus of Eubocris, sister in law to Lady Galatea of Peisistratos, who I frequent for business," it was unlikely that Leto would have met any of the above he's mentioned, but she's more likely to have heard of them in passing when their parents would ask of his work at the dinner table the family often shared.
"We met once, many years ago before she left for marriage. She has returned recently." Intentionally leaving out the reason for her return, Magnus then turned to Iolanthe. "This is my only sister, Leto of Chaossis."
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]The sight of her brother's smile was reflected in a wide smile of her own, one that caused sharp lines that cut deep under her cheekbones and nearly to her chin. It was not the most lady-like of smiles, and it seemed to change the entire shape of her face, which usually consisted of sharp angles and and eyes that flicked up in the corners.
The smile faltered slightly but managed to hold in a slightly unsure and askew version of itself as the noblewoman seemed to initially decline the offer of wine and began to excuse herself. Was it something she said? Was there some rule she didn't know about the etiquette for offering wine? Oh gods! Did she call the woman by the wrong title?? Oh, she knew this day would come! Her round eyes flickered back and forth between Magnus and the noblewoman as her mind agonized over each little thing she must have done wrong.
Her brother, as he naturally did, saved the moment with a gentleman's smile and an offering of his own chalice. His teasing tone was mildly comforting, as it indicated she must not have committed a terrible faux pas. Without realizing it, she began to roll the chalice between her two hands nervously, and offered an soft, awkward laugh as Magnus teased her about not imbibing too much.
"Oh, not to worry," she said, a carefully held and lightly uncomfortable sing-song lilt in her voice as she continued to hold the smile, "You'll find that it is a rather sweet wine, not a strong wine." Not strong enough, she thought for a brief moment, before making a small motion to raise the glass toward the noblewoman and take a small nip of it as a release of nervous energy.
As Magnus began to introduce the lady at his side, Leto released a small but visible exhale that relaxed her shoulders and softened her stiffly held smile. Thank the gods, she got the title right! He continued with the introduction with names that seemed both familiar yet unrecognizable, and that were entirely lost on her as she mentally repeated the woman's name in her head before ever making an attempt to pronounce it.
"Lady Iolanthe, it is a divine pleasure," she replied, dipping into another curtsy out of ignorance, and immediately glancing to her brother and offering him the wine chalice as if to ask if her performance was passable. After a moment of searching for words, she added, "Are the two of you going to dance?"
As if the words sparked the thought, putting two pieces of a puzzle together in her frazzled mind as her eyes lit with curiosity. Was her brother going to dance with a married woman? Was...that allowed? Her brother's position allowed him to do many things, and she supposed it could be one of the other intricacies of court that she did not understand. Maybe she missed the moment when Magnus asked the husband if they could dance? Her expression shifted from nervousness to quietly brewing curiosity.
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]A tinge of compassion crept onto Thea as she observed the conflict dawning on her sister's features. It had always been a tight position to be in for Evras, with one side being her blood family and the other being the dear husband. Sometimes she wondered if their all-knowing eldest sister ever took Evie's feelings into calculation when she married her off to the wolves. With the Thanasi family, every move was a ploy. Thea herself would not be here if it had not been for the marriage between their parents, which was also largely political. Still, a feeling of uneasiness would still overwhelm the second Thanasi daughter whenever she contemplated. In this society of powerplay, everything could be utilized as a pawn. Even your own flesh and blood.
Thea lingeredly ghosted her fingertips on Dion's cheeks. Her nephew, bless his heart, was brought into this world in the same manner she was. Of course, at his young age, he would not be able to even begin grasping at how complex his reality was. But he was a happy child. Maybe it had something to do with the convoluted love Zanon and Evras held for one another. Despite their gaping differences, at least his parents were on the same team about him, and for that she was admittedly grateful.
Her train of thoughts came to a halt when sounds of heavy footsteps thudding against the stone came within an ear's reach. Thea stood up and looked ahead of them, her arm instinctively snaking itself around Dion's shoulders in a protective manner. Across from the triad of adults was another young boy. By the looks of it, he was around her nephew's age.
It took her a few seconds, but Thea realized the child as one half of the twins from the house Eliades. Among the court of Colchis, these two were known as a troublemaker duo, and she had no doubt that they were friends with Dion, seeing how their family was also royalties and shared ties with the Kotas household. Judging from his wrinkled mud-splashed clothes, his labored breathing and his lively expression, she could tell that the kid had been playing.
The way the child skidded to a dead stop at the sight of the grownups before him almost elicit a chuckle from Thea. She watched as he fumbled to straighten himself up and properly greeted his elders, his situation clearly abashing him. Her speculation was confirmed when Babis, as he had introduced himself, timidly asked for Evras' permission to have Dion.
Seeing that her sister graciously granted his request, Thea figured it was time to bid farewell to her family. As Evras approached her, the taller woman opened her arms and gave the girl a soft side hug. Afterwards, she turned her cheeks to accept her sibling's goodbye kiss and returned it with a quick peck. She then kneeled down to Dion's height again. "Goodbye, auntie Thea.", the little kid chirped before wrapping her up in a hug. Thea returned the gesture and pressed her lips on his hair in a tender kiss.
A couple seconds passed before the boy disentangled himself from her embrace and turned to Babis. a devious grin evident on his face. "Who's the slowpoke now?", Dion exclaimed, hand sneaking up on his playmate shoulders to smack the other child. With a hearty laugh, the young prince took up running out of the tent, leaving a stunned Babis. The Eliades child could groaned out in frustration before he started chasing after Dion, whose frame jad now blended in with the crowd.
Thea stood silently in her spot as Evras an Zanon then departed the scene, heading for the carriage mentioned in their conversation. Now that she had seen her family and fulfilled the main purpose of her trip, she found herself in a deafening void. But then a warm hand touched her slender arm. "Lady Thea, everything here is done. Should we be heading back?' She turned around to meet Ophion's warm green orbs. Perhaps she was not as alone tonight as she thought she was. She cast her gaze out into the sea of people, marveling at the festivities. "The small cakes' aroma is enticing.", she commented while eyeing a food stand. There was so much to behold, so many people to take in and so many activities occuring out there. Maybe she would lengthen her stay and enjoy herself this one occasion.
"Small cakes, it is!", Ophion beamed, clapping his hands. Nodding at him, Thea led the way out of the herb stand, her male companion trailing closely behind with all of their newly purchased goods.
[attr="class","ic_message_scroll"]Vangelis was not one for celebrations.
Not because he was a doldrum or because he hated anything that involved cheer and light-heartedness. If he was honest and his thoughts vocalised fewer would call him the Stone Prince and his true feelings would be more obvious to the masses. Such events as these made Vangelis' heart soar. It made his chest expand and his soul feel lighter. This was what he had fought for over half his life to protect. This was what he spent so many weeks, months and years away from his home for - fighting those who might take the freedom of his people. This was life. And it was what Vangelis had vowed since he was fourteen to do everything in his power to keep safe.
So, within his own mind and his own conscience, Vangelis loved these kinds of events. He loved seeing the bright colours of the market stalls, the smiling faces of his people - the joy and abandon that the music and dancing were able to give to those who might tomorrow have to wake up with pressures on their shoulders and burdens on their backs.
The reason Vangelis was not one for such events, however, was the simple fact that, in order to protect this kind of enjoyment - his own world had been taken down a very particular path. One that was not conducive to building social skills or making him comfortable interacting with strangers or large groups of people.
There was a discipline to the army. A rigidity that was clear, structured and secure. And within that Vangelis had total control. He was General, he was Prince, - the drachmae stopped with him. In this kind of situation, there was no control. There was no order. Everyone was all over the place. And that meant anything could happen at any time. And it was hard for a seasoned military man to turn off those concerns at the wave of a hand or the sip from a wine cup. A man used to living on the edge of death for so long saw danger everywhere. There was little they could do about it. And so relaxing - when the world around them was in joyful abandon - was hard.
Vangelis could tell that the same feeling applied to Lazaros, who walked with them around the market but did so in the same way that Vangelis meandered - with straight back, sharp eyes and head on a swivel. There was no relaxation about the two men.
Leaving Nike to handle Asia and his brothers being able to handle themselves, Vangelis attempted to blend and inspect the items at some of the stalls he passed. It was harder than it might seem given that his mere presence at any stall had the owner standing straighter, bowing and acting generally unnaturally. Not easy to act like everyone else when you were never treated as such.
The only time in which he caught himself lingering was at a stall from one of the southern isles - not far from Greece but outside of normal trading routes. The woman who owned it was dark in skin-tone and had jet black hair and eyes. She smiled and her teeth were shock of pearly white in her face.
"Anything in particular I can help you with, Your Highness?" The woman asked, the aged creases in her face suddenly obvious in her smile.
Vangelis frowned and pointed at a particular item to the back of the table.
"What is that?" He asked the woman, his tone polite and his words efficient.
The woman reached for the item, the bangles on her wrist clinking as she moved and selected the item he had identified. The piece was a small statue of white marble, soft and shiny white with ribbons of the palest blue. It was about four inches tall and appropriate in proportion to its depiction. A small, shrouded adonis, the feminine male figure holding his cloak around himself; not in fear but in pleasant comfort.
"'Tis Phantasos, my Lord." The woman said. "Son of Hypnos... It was sold to be at a temple in the South. I was told it would promote good dreams..."
Vangelis was not a man to delay over decisions and linger on choices. He paid for the item, took it from the woman who wrapped it in a piece of cloth to protect its smooth surface and then placed the purchase inside the small leather bag at his belt, with the rest of his money.
By the time he had moved to catch up with his family, his sister Asia had joined her cousin and - to Vangelis' great surprise - Lazaros, out in the middle of the courtyard in order to dance along to the merry music.
Vangelis watched for a while, standing to one side and folding his arms to watch the jovial pandemonium with hard features but kind eyes.
It wasn't long, however, before he started to notice that Asia was not her usual rambunctious self. Her movements were a little languid and she was starting to appear ungraceful.
Concerned that she was too tired to remain out for the evening and that she would damage her image as the princess among the Kotas men by appearing ungainly if she was involved in the entertainment for much longer, Vangelis decided it was time to call her activities to an end and escort her back to the Kotas manor.
Moving the head through the crowd towards his sister, Vangelis made only a small detour to tap on the shoulder of one Magnus - the man who was one of his most trusted advisors in anything outside of the military.
"I'll see you at the manor first thing in the morning, Magnus." Vangelis commented. "I leave the kingdom in a week's time. We have things to discuss."
Vangelis' eyes lingered on Timaeus, noting his recent bruises without reaction. He had yet to decide whether one of the things he would be speaking with Magnus about was the House of Valaoritis and their recent transgression against his sister in law.
But it was standard, at least, for him to speak with the man before he left the kingdom. He always liked to be in touch with Magnus both as soon as he arrived and immediately before he left. They were able to exchange information on exactly what was happening within a kingdom Vangelis intended to rule but was rarely in attendance of.
Having settled that piece of business, Vangelis bowed his head politely at the Lady Iolanthe based on her gender and then headed towards his sister where he stopped her dancing with a simple hand to her shoulder.
"I think it time to call an end to this evening." He encouraged her, his hand moving from her shoulder to her arm, where he hooked it through his own to escort her.
"Lord Lazaros, perhaps you might offer your services to escort the Lady Imeeya home?" He suggested, before offering Imeeya the same nod he had given Iolanthe. "You'll have to excuse myself and the princess, cousin. Enjoy the rest of the celebrations."
And with that, Vangelis steered his sister away from the festivities regardless of protest.
Looking around and catching site of his nephew with the young Eliades boys - two menaces that he could never tell apart. Vangelis simply stood watching them until the three of them came to a crashing halt in their adventures. Once he had their attention, he simply raised an eyebrow, his meaning clear, as Dion bid his goodbyes and hurried over to join his uncle and aunt.
"Come on..." He told the boy. "Your parents will be waiting."
And having somehow become the official baby-sitter to the youngest members of his family, Vangelis guided the two of them through the crowds, occasionally placing a large hand on his nephew's head in order to redirect him towards less crowded areas or out of the path of on-coming merchants, blind over their bundles of goods.
This was what life would have in store for him. Guiding small children and tethering teenagers... God help him if he ever had kids...