OOC: This thread takes place after this one (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=17043.msg197976#msg197976).
Tags to
@Lion ---------
The morning had been eventful to say the least, and she- without a moment's reprieve. So many noblemen and women from all over Essyrn, and even Adela, came to attend and pay their respects to the youthful and powerful Shah. But she was growing antsy, feeling a bit too overwhelmed being so directly in the lime light with her 'people' and soon requested a moment alone. She even wanted nothing to do with her slave, Malika whom she kept fervently at her side during any such events, especially ones like this. But she just needed to be
out of this, and before her guard or anyone else could stop her, she barked the final order before strolling on up the sea all by herself. The beach had finally vacated, many of the spectators having retired to lunch or were resting for their afternoon naps. She just couldnt' rest, and as gritty sands made their way nto her sandal, she paused a moment to angrily untie them, which required quite a long time and effort since they laced all the way up her legs, and by the time she was finally free of them, she released a breath of frustration, and also of elation as she gathered up her shoes and tossed them aside, and finally,
finally both of her bare feet could now rest and squish into the soft, silky sands of the beach front, as the gentle frothy of shallow waves rippled up to lap at her toes.
The sea... oh how powerless she felt to be against the sea, and as the constant winds rushed past her, she paused a moment to adjust her head piece, wishing she hadn't needed the crown in hopes for a swim. But that wouldn't do. This was not the time for this. She was to remain 'perched' in waiting for whomever brought her a trophy crocodile for her to oo and awww at. So far, no one had returned yet, and she hadn't realized how dreadfully stressful waiting could be until an event like today had happened. It soured her mood considerably, for she had been positively beaming before. Yes, this moment of reprieve to collect herself was all she needed- if even for just a brief kiss of a moment.
And oh how mercilessly hot it was as she closed her eyes for a moment, a hand coming through her hair, which unfortunately came free, and the winds took the black locks and carried them, letting them paint across the air like dancing scribbles of ink.
The afternoon heat was washed away only by the cool breeze from the water's edge. In fact it was just cool enough to take a dip in. Thankfully he was much closer to the sea than the river at large where the horde of those reptillian fiends resided. His clothes had been carefully stashed away, hidden between a sandstone and a grassy bush before he decided to take a dip in the cool sea water. Agrian had always fancied himself a good swimmer, despite growing up in a sea of sand and his body was strong against the current as he backstroked to the shore.
But he was not Agrian now, he was Attila Al'Razar and he was preparing for his meeting with the Shah, or whatever accident he could conjure up. Thankfully he had shaved his beard before coming out here and prepared as he needed. He emerged onto the shore with a slight sputter, shaking the water from his hair and slicking it back when he noticed a woman sitting near his clothes... Not just any woman... The Shah.
He did not make it so that he obviously noticed for he was still quite a distance away. One thing he was thankful for at least was the loincloth that covered his more private areas. It probably wouldn't be the best idea to greet the Shah completely naked of course.
Oh how she wished to go out into the ocean, to feel the waves crash and dance around her body. But to have herself appear so disheveled before the whole of Essyrn would not be possible, and she would not admit it- but she had a slight fear of such a large mass of water. She had nearly drowned when she was young, and she could not boast to be a good swimmer. Sure, she could keep herself afloat, but if anything, she'd likely sink like a rock far easier than fight whatever powers that be in the majestic waters of the sea.
She peered back to her tassel curtained tent- no doubt her guards and slaves were worried about her. She could just feel their eyes upon her, and that already put her back a bit from enjoying the temporary moment of freedom. Perhaps it was childish of her to do so, and she should head back to let Malika fix her hair, but her fingers raked through her thick tresses, she spied the form of a man, the perfect form of a man, stepping through the waters, ocean waters gushing down his body-
and she could not stop herself as she stared.
He felt her eyes, and he slowly turned to her and gave a small bow of his own, stopping short. "Oh, I did not see anyone on the beach before!" he said with a smile. He continued to walk toward her seeing as he left his towel not too far from where she sat. As he got closer however, he paused suddenly and his eyes widened. "Great Shah! I did not notice it was you! Hakeshna's breath this is...unexpected." And immediately dropped his head in a bow, signing across his chest.
He wasn't the only one forgetting there was a great Shah before him, for it was only when he gasped at the obvious did she freeze, and felt her body warm all over with embarrassment. She gave a bashful smile in return, bowing her head lightly towards him, but it was hard for her to keep her eyes off of his body.
"Attila, it is good to see you again. Are you here enjoying the Annual Crocodile Hunt as well?"
He relaxed when she addressed him, smiling internally at her obvious gawking. Infact he flexed the muscles of his torso a little as he straightened, even clenching a pectoral muscle - clearly an unconscious action. "I am indeed, Your Grace. In the midst of all the reverie it is difficult to find a moment's peace. I thought I would enjoy the cool waters while there was time to do so."
Persea was gaping. She couldn't believe she was gaping, but it took so much effort to get her open mouth closed. Once she did, she clenched her teeth, hoping to keep her lips closed- but then she realized she had to speak.
So she opened herlips, but nothing came out, and drawing in a quick breath, she finally was able to utter out, "Y-yes, I'm afraid I know far too well what you mean. The day has been so, so... stifling, I dare say. It's why you've found me all alone." She told him, suddenly feeling very vulnerable and exposed to be so near to a man and un-escorted. Despite having met his acquaintance before, it actually did in no way at all quell that anxiousness, that small spark of fear. But it was a thrilling fear because well-
despite herself, he was a handsome man, and she did not mind it all to be caught with him so alone- if even for this brief a moment.
Attila's smile only grew as he wandered closer to her and the towel, bothering to clench muscles here and there for her benefit - and his own amusement. He reached the towel and wrapped it around his own waist. "Are you busy, Your Grace? I do not mean to impose on your space or your time. Perhaps you'd like to get out of here. Take a walk I mean."
It was like he could read her mind, and she was already so entranced by him she found herself only able to answer smilingly, "Yes." And she honestly had no idea he asked more than one question.
"Then what are we waiting for?" he asked. He wiped his face and body off with the towel and redraped it around his hips. He reached for her hand, to help her to her feet.
She was still staring, smiling like an idiot that she almost didn't see the offered hand. And when she did, she nearly gasped- not at the surprise of finding a helping hand before her, but because she was so awe struck by his handsome body and face- well...
Being from Essyrn, surely she should be used to seeing men nearly nude (or even completely so); but for some reason, being around Attila made it different, and she hoped he didn't notice how clammy her hand was becoming when she accepted his and stepped nearer to him in dainty, proper steps.
"A stroll on the beach sounds lovely. I dare say that I feel limited to here, for the river lands, though beautiful, seem too dangerous for one such as I to step near them. Though I've seen so many lovely flowers. I wonder what they are, so that I may add them to my gardens." And she stared past him, past the rows of frilly tens to where the river lands thrived. They were truly a beautiful sight to behold, and she was finding her heart beat becoming rapid and fluttery once again. The day seemed truly magical, especially now that she coudl get away from propriety- but even still, she could sense there were still eyes upon her. But she supposed it was just as well. What if something were to happen out here? And instinctively, her hand gripped Attila's a bit tighter.
Attila had to fight the urge to burst out laughing at her simpering awe, that would be quite ungentlemanly of him of course. Instead he gave her an easy smile and set her hand onto his arm., and led her down. "Do not worry, Your Grace. I won't let any harm come to you," he murmured. "I don't think fortune smiled on any man that would even entertain the notion of allowing you to come to harm."
Attila strolled with her down the beach, reaching down to pluck his linen shirt from the ground and hung it over one shoulder as they began their stroll. "The crocodiles occupy the river at large, where most of the others are, the beach should be largely safe."
She gave a quick nod and tried to regain as much of her composure as she could. Years of practice came in handy, and she found herself swallowing down any of her emotions so she could speak with a smoother tongue.
"So are you not hunting crocodile's with the rest?" Even nobles, she had seen, had their eldest sons participating to impress her. And why not? She had not yet been married, and it had been quite an ego booster to see so many men, and handsome ones, vying for her hand. And though she had looked impress, she believed she also kept herself as neutral as possible, and couldn't wait to see the results- and now, she was a bit saddened to see this man not in attendance. Did he not wish to prove himself to her? And at that thought, she internally deflated. Maybe he was just not interested in her. Maybe she was just too young, or too powerful? She knew some of the men that had approached her were such a ball of nerves..
Her position did evoke a sense of power no one else in the land could even think to possess.
"I do not know if couriers make good hunters. No, perhaps it is best that I do not participate. I wish to retain the use of all of my limbs," he said, giving a soft laugh. "Forgive me if I may be so bold, Your Grace, but ...er, I do not see what killing crocodiles intends to prove."
He had a good point in what he said, but when he inquired about the tradition as if not understanding it, she felt herself flare with anger.
"Oh, but it's an important tradition!" she informed. "Not only does it keep the crocodile population to some much, safer numbers, but it proves the worthiness of so many men."
Attila frowned slightly, peering at her from the side. "Proves their worth in what way? I believe it has already been proven a man may kill something. Personally I do not take such pride in all that killing. Animal or man."
"Yes, but I would not put the crocodile on the same place as one would a dog or camel. They are closer to the wild beasts of the desert. And if our men do not hunt them, then they will become too many and hunt us," she reasoned.
"Perhaps," Attila acknowledged with a nod. "But such animals do not wander far from water. Oh, I have no ill thoughts to such men that wish to prove their worth by the slaying of crocodiles. I wish them only luck and may the best of them win."
Persea grew quiet at his comment, not sure what to say. She didn't know why she was so disappointed in what he had to say, even if it made sense. Goodness knows she wouldn't have participated if she were a man. So instead of saying anything, she kept quiet and contemplative, brows knitting in thought.
"So if you're not here to hunt..." she began, recomposing herself then peering up at him curiously. "What is a courier meant to do? Are you just here for the spectacle then? To watch your friends bring in some prize?"
He didn't know what she expected of him, to be vying for her affection probably. But if her affection was at all worth gaining, Attila had hoped it would stem from more than just the physical prowess to be gained from hunting. She was a smart girl when she wanted to be. And he enjoyed watching her mind at work behind the gems of her eyes. It was intriguing.
"Yes for the spectacle in part. And to make some connections, all the most powerful Princes are here you know. I am a go-between really. I thought I explained this, a messenger, y'know. It is good to be able to converse with men who may grow to need connections in other places and I am the man to provide that. And...making a few bets on the side doesn't hurt either. You never know who's going to lose an arm after all."
"Betting on who will lose a limb?!" Persea gaped at the idea and exclaimed honestly, "How barbaric!"
Attila gave her a smirk. "This from the woman having an entire hunt held in her honor," he murmured.
Persea gaped at such a response, her lips falling open wider than before. She turned her face away from him as she gave an indignant hmph.
"This festival has been going on for many generations!" She huffed. "It is a most sacred affair, I assure you, or Hakeshna would not bless such a thing!"
Really, how dare he! Making her appear the barbarian when she was born into this and their Goddess approved!
"I only jest, Your Grace," he bowed his head. "Please, do not take offense." He was laughing himself, tossing his head back in a great guffaw.
Persea turned pink cheek as she found herself at the butt of his joke.
"Well, forgive me for worrying about Hakeshna!" she said, huffily as she turned her nose away from him. Really now, how rude! But in truth, she felt silly for not realizing it in the first place.
"Forgiven," he nodded. "And I hope I am forgiven for making you flustered so. I can't imagine any of your usual courtiers willing to do such a thing. Nevertheless, it gladdens my heart to see a smile on your face, a real smile."
She hadn't realized she had smiled (though she was trying to conceal it) so when he called her out on it, she turned to him, casting a glare before she laughed, and it was a full and genuine laugh.
"You'll have to forgive me. I would normally be resting now. It is a rarity when I skip my mid-day rest." And she sighed at the idea and looked away from him, hoping the subject change would keep the topic off of her lips, for she was trying to hide her smile away again- and failing.
And her cheeks were just so terribly pink!
"So that is your secret. Frankly I had been wondering how a woman such as yourself would be able to put up with so many of your courtiers trying to weasel their way into your favor and weed their rivals out. Of course! You must get your beauty rest! I hadn't given that much thought before."
Persea found herself gaping at Attila at such a statement, but then a small smile spread across her lips.
"Surely you jest?" she asked, feeling sheepish she even had to ask. "But this life, it's what I was born to do." She really had no other choice....
"Well, that much I can deduce. But such trying activities...easily can snatch the youth and beauty of any ruler. Yet you, you are positively radiant." he said with a gleam in his eye, tone genuine.
At such a compliment, and from such a man, she could not control the color of pink that set into her cheeks, as she found herself gaping at him once more as her heart fluttered. It was so surreal. She knew she was beautiful, it was practically spoon fed to her as what she was made to be-
but for some reason when this man said it-
it well.. well, made her feel different. She shifted uncomfortably suddenly and found herself giving him a bashful smile.
"Thank you, Attila. You are too kind. But I am young. Youth normally breeds beauty."
"True. But not in all cases. My father's half-brother for example has some of the ugliest daughters this side of the oasis. It will be a miracle by Hakeshna's will should they ever marry." Attila bowed his head. "And if it's any consolation, it is a compliment I do not give freely."
Well that didn't help and made her feel even more self conscious. Yes, she was pretty. Yes, she was youthful, but then he went on to make it an even bigger deal the compliment was from him. And in spite of herself, she could not contain her smile.
"Then I suppose I should consider myself lucky. Or perhaps it is you who should? After all, it is not every day any man can simply walk with the Great Shah and get to speak to her in such a way."
And she hope dshe was not too bold in her playful statement, as she kept her grin stretched and toothy across her face.
"To have the honor to walk beside you? What man could ask for more than that?" he beamed and gestured to the waters. "Perhaps you would like to go for a swim, Your Grace?"
The heat now crept into her ears as a light fluttering beat within her heart. Oh, if this wasn't obviously flirting, she didn't know what was! And she had charmers approach her before but...
Well, none that elicited the same emotions that Attila had, and she found herself staring at him again before gasping softly and giving an unfortunate shake of her head.
"I fear it would not be proper. I should not get myself in such disarray just for a mild, midday swim." And how improper it might seem! But perhaps... perhaps not, if she too, wished to spend just a bit more time wth him and well, he looked rather nice with the waters gushing all over his ripped body.
Yeah, okay so she had the hots for him, but she tried to conceal it well, even though internally she was gushing over being so close to such a man. And what was it about him? Was it his eyes, his hair?T he way his face was so chiseled? Or.. his body. She secretly snuck a peak before glancing nonchalantly towards the ocean.
"I fear I had not considered bringing any clothing for such an event, either." Though her clothing, as meager as it was, was still as fancy as ever, twisting around her body in colorful and tranlucent ribbons and gold beads and jewels. Yes.. if she were to swim like this- well..
She would look muhc less perfect than she wanted to before her people-
and one thing she did not want was to end up looking like some drowned rat!
"I understand completely, Your Grace," he said. "And I know if you got your garments wet, your servants would raise hell trying to get you dry again. So I propose an alternative. Surely if you were to swim with your clothes off, you would save them from ruin."
Persea stared at him, her eyes wide before she laughed.
"Surely you can not be serious. I can not get... get undressed and naked before the whole of Essyrn. Have you gone mad?" And she gave a nervous laugh, hoping he was joking. And if she thought her cheeks were burning before, they were certainly scolding hot now.
Attila chuckled, but his smile never faded. "I wouldn't have suggested it if I didn't think it could be a good idea. But you're right. You certainly cannot display yourself to the bulk of your people. But perhaps if we continue along the beach to a place more secluded. Though if you do not want to, I completely understand."
Persea gasped at such an idea, but could not hide her smile.
"Attila! You request something so bold! Surely you must realize I could not be escorted to do such a thing alone."
"Request!? It is merely a suggestion!" he breathed a laugh. "Though, if it makes you feel any better, I could do it with you. This way you won't have to be so self-conscious."
Persea just stared.
"Attila! That is not what I meant! Surely you must understand why I can not be with a man alone."
At her palace was different, after all. Here...
here she felt so... so vulnerable. And so many people were watching them.... though thankfully, most were at rest.
Attilla put his hands up in surrender. "Very well! I give up! You have proven your honor, Your Grace." But his face was red with laughter and he motioned for her to continue their walk beside him. "I hope I did not embarrass you. I did not mean to."
"You laugh, but it is most serious, Attila! As the Shah, I am to follow closely to Hakeshna's will, and through it, help rule Essyrn as she had wanted me to. Being unwed I... I could not compromise my honor or that of my husband's to be by being a alone and well... well... unclothed with a man." And she averted her gaze from him, feeling so dizzy and heated over just the idea of it. And her heart was beating so loudly, she feared he might be able to hear it drumming out from her ears.
Attila's expression softened and he turned to her, grabbing her hand and clasping it between both of his palms. "Your Grace, I understand the depth and gravity of the position you are in. It is an honor to be able to converse with you in such a manner. I think what I suggested caused you a great deal of concern of course because you carry such a high place among your people. You carry much responsibility, so much so the weight of it could crush you any moment. And yet, I wonder beneath it all, what do you possibly do for fun?"
Persea's eyes went large at such a question, but before she could even reply to him-
a gull passed over head and pooped on his head.
ANd she stood there, stunned a moment before her body began to shake and tremble, and suddenly she was laughing, and laughing in a manner she tried to repress it that she snorted. And at the snort, she gasped and tried to cover her lips, but her laughter shown through, shining in her eyes, as she snorted again.
Attila felt the plop on his head and he had the dignity to accept the notion with grace. So instead he bent down, dropped his small clothes and ran directly into the water, leaving his shirt and towel behind, and rolled head first into a wave.
"A-Attila!" she called after him, wanting to remind him it was not proper to just.. just, well do that! But before she could utter a word out, she found herself following him half way, just her feet in the water when she heard a sharp cry of gulls up ahead and-
apparently the gulls ahd been fighting a fish, fo rit fell ut of their mouths and flopped onto her face. Freaking out, she let out a scream and stumbled forward into the water, tripping over her own two feet as a wave came crashing forward, pulling her into it's grip and soon she was swallowing the sea.
Attila scrubbed at his head furiously when Persea suddenly shrieked and jumped in after him. He hadn't seen the fish, but it was the last thing on his mind when she was taken by a rather large wave. He lunged for her quickly and grabbed her by the arm. "I've got you, don't worry," he said, pulling her toward the shallower end where he was.
Persea clung to him, looking very much the picture of a drowned rat. She shivered against him, gritting her teeth as her entire ensemble of clothing turned into limp, wet noodles that clung against her body like colorful, second skins of translucent fabric.
He secured an arm around her, holding her waist as he pulled them both back to shore, looking more worse for wear. "Are you all right, Your Grace?" he asked, panting heavily for all the scare her scream had caused him. He nearly swallowed water himself in her panic. At least the Goddess smiled on them this day.
Persea's eyes were wide, she- shivering from the chill of the water that now goosebumped her flesh. And she clung to him- and though he was drenche din as much cold water as she, he was at least a bit warm and also a protective force that she needed right about now.
It took a moment for his question to register before she blinked back a few threatening tears.
"By Hakeshna, I thought the sea was to swallow me whole!"
"Do not worry, you are safe," he said before releasing her in the shallower end of the water. Water still splashed around their feet but they were otherwise safe from floundering. A smile suddenly came to him and he laughed, amused by her appearance. She looked more like a drenched cat than a rat, but it amused him nonethless. "That was a close one!"
Seeing him laugh made her scrunch and furrow her brows.
"You laugh?" she said, trembling beside him. "Why is that you laugh? I could have been killed!"
"No reason, Your Soaked Wetness, no reason at all," he smirked. "I am only happy that you are safe and sound. Even if you are a little cold to the touch. The important thing is that you are most certainly NOT dead."
Persea pouted.
"You mock me! Even in my distress, you laugh!" And to see his playful smirk was just enough, and she whirled away from him, and pulled out of his arms. Truthfully, she was a bit snappish for more than just his smirk, and the possibility she could of drowned...
Because well, he had just been holding her.
And he had been very, very, naked and wet. So clumsily, stubbornly, she began to splash her way back to shore. Ugh, her servants now had their work cut out for them! She was such a mess and her eye and body make up was running clean off her face!
"But before that what were you doing?" he called after her, returning totthe shore and his discarded undergarments. He bound them back around his waist. "You were laughing were you not?"
Persea gasped and turned to him at his accusations, getting an eye full before he sealed his loin clothe over his exposed skin. She also had been staring before she snapped her eyes back to his, and was about ready to chew him out when-
plop
Another gull pooped on his head. And as she gaped, she could not help herself but point and laugh.
[I hate you.]
Attila frowed and wiped it off as ever with grace. It seemed unfortunate that with all the space around him the chances of that happening twice would seem marginally slim, and yet alas they were not. And just when he thought it was over... Another one landed. This time all over Persea's breasts.
OOC: Hey, something had to break the ice lol
--------
Persea too was in awe that such a thing could even happen twice, and especially in such a manner and at such a time, but even as she was trying to stifle her laughter through a hand again-
splat
Some of it landed on her breasts. And did she ever make a noise of disgust, as she stood there- completely at a loss of what to do.
Attila laughed so hard, he was red in the face and his stomach hurt. But soon he ran out of the way of the shore and out into the water so that he could ridicule her even more, pointing and laughing.
Persea could not believe the audacity of him! Salvaging what dignity she had left, she glared hotly over to where he now stood on the shore line, strolled clean up to him with as much arrogance in each stride as she could muster- then paused, taking a hand full of bird poop from her chest and examined him a moment before smearing it onto his face.
But before she could make it onto his face, Attila snatched her arm and pulled her back into the water, still laughing at her expense. He kept his distance from her, giggling and bouncing and splashing water at her.
Persea gasped and tried to shield herself from the water.
"A-Attila!" She exclaimed. "What do you think you are doing?!" And in an angered huff, she slapped some water back his way.
"Evading your wrath," he answered, splashing larger waves of water his way. "You look awfully beautiful smothered in bird poop."
Persea gasped.
"The nerve of you! You know I could call my guards after you!" she said with a huff and angry stomp of her foot, but ended up getting a face full of salty water as she shrieked.
"ATTILA! ATTILA STOP THIS THIS MOMENT!"
"You'll have to catch me first!" he called back as he dove out further into the ocean water. The waves were getting a little higher and he dove underneath one just as it was coming down.
Persea made a dash after him, but halted just as a wave came crashing at her hips. She gave a gasp and a yelp, and froze, stock still- completely terrified the ocean might take her again.
Attila waded through water several feet from her when she stalled suddenly. He watched her for a good long second before swimming to her. He said nothing, only grabbed her hands gently, safely and securely in his before nodding to her to gently guide her out into the water.
When Attila moved towards her she tensed, even as he coaxed her reassuringly. But the second his hands took hold of hers, she felt a bit of her fear melt away as she began to take a few steps in the water with him.
He helped her step further into the ocean water, holding her securely. "I have you, Your Grace," he said. "You will not flounder. Just keep ahold of me. You are doing well."
"But you tricked me," she told him through a pout, clinging closely to him and enjoying the warm feel of his muscles against the contrast of the cool sea. Peering up into his gaze, she reminded him, "I had no wanted to swim."
"I understand." He nodded to her, pulling just far enough out to wade through the water, bouncing up from the sand underneath them. "But tell me, is it really so bad?" he asked, holding her afloat.
Persea peered up timidly into his gaze, still afraid of the water and clinging to him. But it felt so cool and refreshing, and like the sea winds, something about it felt freeing. She continued to cling to him and tucked back her lips a moment before she smiled.
"No," she said upon a breath. "It feels rather nice. The movement of the ocean waves are cool and contrasting to the midday sun."
"I am glad to hear you say that. Now let me know when you are ready to let go. I can still hold your hand if you like. I've always been a strong swimmer," he offered.
"Let go?" Such an idea terrified her, and that much was evident as she clung to him tighter. "Can I not just hold onto you?"
"Well, all right then. But you have to kick with your legs. We can swim around for a while," he said with a smile. "And not me. Kick the water."
Persea smiled up at him.
"But what if I wish to kick you? After all, you did trick me into joining you for a swim. And now my hair and clothing are wet and a mess!"
"That might not fare well for you. If you kick me, I might lose my hold on you and then where would we be?" he asked with a chuckle.
"What? A man as strong as you are losing your hold? I don't think I could believe it. Besides, would you dare drop your Shah in the ocean?" she asked, her eyes glinting playfully as she hugged more affectionately onto his arm.
"Accidents happen. Fingers slip, people flounder. If I did lose hold, I'd either drown, or be swept too far out to see for you to do anything about it. So it's probably be a good idea not to kick me, just in case. I don't fancy drowning, or being eaten. I'm sure neither do you," he laughed, looking down at her hold on his arm.
"Being eaten!?" she gasped, and suddenly found herself clinging to him even closer. And at their close proximity, she realized their faces were just inches apart. And her cheeks flushed darkly as she held her breath, peering up into his dark eyes.
"I..." she went on, finally releasing her breath, her lashes hanging low. "I... I shouldn't think it... it would be fun to be.... be.... eaten," she told him, barely able to get the soft words out as she tensed within his arms while her heart fluttered and hammered within her chest.
Attilla chuckled and smiled gently at her. "No, being eaten likely wouldn't be fun for either of us. So let's keep kicking shall we?" he laughed and pulled them out along the water, wading through it gently as the waves carried them along the beach.
She was thankful when he continued to lead her. Despite her obliging with gentle kicks in the ocean, her legs felt like jelly and the ocean was at least keeping her blush down at bay. But she still clung to him closely.
"You feel so strong," she told him. "No wonder you're a good swimmer."
"I worked very hard to become strong, in mind and body. Life is not easy, my father always said, and you must rise to the challenge. A good lesson for anyone, no?" he laughed and noted her blushes, for he could feel her body heat radiating through him. "Aren't you a good swimmer? Many women would not say so, but they can be strong too," he nodded."
"No," she admitted. "I can't say that I am. I... I've never had much of a chance to try."
Attila gasped. "Surely you're joking? The Great Shah!? The one woman in all the Moraki that could command the sands to spread for her never had the chance to try, huh? Well...perhaps I can remedy that. Or would you prefer just to float along?"
Persea frowned.
"I never had the chance!" And she pouted and continued to hug onto his arm, pressing herself up against his side. He felt so nice and warm, and powerful..
"It was deemed unsuitable for a young lady. My mother never would have approved such a thing."
And she was debating how much longer she should remain out here. And had to wonder if her servants were all having a heart attack to see her out in the sea.
He readjusted his hold on her and his smile only grew. They were intimately close. Likely closer than any other man wouldn've been allowed to get to her. "But you are a woman now," he murmured. "You have infinite power at your disposal to do as you please."
His words rang true, but were quite sobering, and as much as she adored being so close to him, her smile saddened.
"Yes, but with great power comes great responsibility. I would not waste such commands on something so selfish. My time is precious to my country. I am their vessel, the vessel of Hakeshna, and I speak in her name."
"I...I see," he said, with a small smile. "That is true and I did not consider it. Though shouldn't that make you appreciate moments like this all the more? I know I would before I had to come back to the world at large."
Persea blushed at such a motion and gave him a small smile in return.
"I suppose you're right... and we're already in the water," she told him, leaning into him as her smile grew more playful. "Show me how to swim, Attila. Guide me in this sea. You make it seem so easy."
He laughed, though not at her and raised his brows in surprise. "Are you certain, Your Highness?" he asked. "Well, then if that's the case, you should probably let go of my arm, or at least just hold onto my hand."
"Why should I let go? What if I sink?"
"Well in that case use your arm and legs to kick and keep yourself afloat. I'll hold your hand then, Your Grace. Have no fear," he said giving her a reassuring smile.
Persea looked up into his eyes, her own wavering with a subtle fear.
"Oh... okay," she said, drawing in a careful breath and sliding her hands down his arms. His skin felt good and sent goosbumps to her flesh, and she paused, her fingers tracing over his before she threaded them together and looked up into his face again, waiting for his command as she gently kicke dher legs, keeping herself afloat and bobbing lightly in the water.
"Now we go deeper into the water," he said with a nod and pulled her along gently, gripping her hand firmly but not too tightly in his. "Allright now, keep kicking. Hold onto my arm, but when you feel your legs start to become more comfortable holding you up, you can carefully let go of the tension. Try to carry yourself afloat then. You can feel it in your legs."
"You.. you mean try this on my own?" she asked, still lightly kicking as she peered up at his face, tensing lightly at the thought.
"Don't worry I'll still have you," he said with a grin. "Just ease it as you are comfortable."
Persea looked up into his face and nodded, and kicked lightly, finding her legs felt weightless as they moved behind her.
"It feels so strange. As.. as if I'm floating,"s he said with a nervous laugh, still holding his hand.
"You're doing great!" he laughed, treading water beside her. "Just keep kicking! Now follow me, we'll swim down to the otherside of the shore."
Persea could not help herself but grin, and soon she was growing more confident, gliding beside him in the water with one hand and her legs, but her other hand still held onto his, delicately, but firmly. For part of her was relaxing, but another part of her simply enjoyed being so close to him, so bold and so free. He was such a handsome man, and she was growing more smitten by him by the minute.
"You are doing so well, Your Grace!" he shouted, laughing in joy too. "Do you think you can swim on your own now? Or do you still need me to hold your hand?"
Persea gasped at such an idea, but felt herself growing bold as her smile blossomed.
"I.. I think I could try this, this swimming on my own."
"All right. I'm letting go!" And he did and his eyes waited in anticipation.
Persea gasped, feeling his hand move away from her own and she splashed, nearly going under, but as her hands moved and her legs kicked, she found herself able to stay afloat. But she ate a bit of sea water along the way and found herself reaching out for his hand, wanting to take hold of it again.
When she reached for him, Attila was there, grabbing her hand gently and pulling her toward him. He was smiling, his grin wry and he pulled her in close. "You are okay. Here I'm going to let you go again. Ready?"
Persea paused a moment as she smiled, nodding towards him and as she did it again, she was growing a bit more graceful in her strokes and able to last longer on her own. But still, after a time, she reached out for him again, feeling her limbs burn with the effort. Once she was taking his hand again,s he pulled herself in close.
"I never knew how much effort swimming could be. You do it so effortlessly."
"I'll tell you a secret. I've been standind on the sandy bottom this whole time, just bouncing occasionally," he smirked. "I'm just kidding, Your Grace. I think I'm getting quite tire too, actually. Perhaps we could return to the shore. I'm sure your servants are worried about you."
The very idea this might come to an end made her unthinkingly stammer, "No!" And she clung to him closely, not realizing what she had done until they were so terribly close. Her cheeks burned at their close proximity.
"I.. I mean that is to say, is there not other things we can do together?" And at sucha question, her cheeks burned more.
Attila had the grace not to notice her blush and instead he bowed his head to her instead. "We can find somewhere secluded if you like, just have a seat, talk a little if you want. Unless you wanted to fish or something like that."
"Fish?" she made a face. Did he really just suggest a peasants work to the Shah!?
Attila laughed. "What would you suggest, Your Grace?" he asked.
She didn't know why for the life of her the image of a 'kiss' popped up, but sure enough that's what she thought and dropped her gaze suddenly as her cheeks turned pink.
"Per... perhaps you're right. We should get out of the ocean." And she continued to cling to him but avoided his gaze.
"As it pleases you," he bowed his head to her and swam to shore. He set her on the beach and gave her a smile. "We can still take a walk if you like. To dry off at least."
Once set upon shore, she shivered. The ocean water's were so cold, but the Essyrni sun felt so good on her flesh. She simply nodded at the idea, and waited for him to take her arm to lead.
He took her hand and placed it on his arm, leading her down along the beach as they were before. "I'm surprised your guards aren't screaming after you right now. Are they always so obedient?"
Persea peered up into his face.
"Oh, why yes! No one has seen a woman's scorn like that of the Shah."A nd at such a remark, she actually smiled and leaned into him, being a bit more open about her appreciation of him now that she felt a bit closer to him after their swim.
"I'll bet!" Attila laughed again, beaming down at her and patting her arm as she leaned into him. "I'm sure you are more than aware of the fealty men must owe you, throwing themselves at your feet and cowering at your wrath. I...I suppose one must wonder if all they see is your position, your power. Do you think they ever see the woman behind it all? The real you?"
Persea blinked, and was not quite sure how to answer that. She calculated over his words before glancing away.
"What do you mean?" she asked, almost sadly, confused. "This is the real me." But even she was not to certain with him calling her out on the spot like that. Real her? What did he mean? And nervously she chewed on her lower lip over it.
"Exactly. And it's refreshing to see you so comfortable too. But do you think other men could ever see it too?" he asked softly. But then he suddenly shook his head. "Er. Sorry. I did not mean to pry. Perhaps I shouldn't have said anything."
Persea's face went crimson at such an idea, and she had no idea what to say. So blindly she laughed out an awkward retort, "You seem so certain to marry off to some strange man. Did you have someone in mind, or are you trying to be coy with me?"
"I'm only making conversation, Your Grace," Attila smiled at her. "Forget I said anything. I did not mean to pry."
"But how can I forget what has already been spoken?" she asked with an impatient stomp of her foot. "What did you mean by it?" Because she honestly wanted to know!
"I meant only if you think other men see what I see. A beautiful woman inside and out."
Persea's blush couldn't get hotter, and she found herself staring at him, wide eyed and in shock. In fact, she was so surprised she had no idea what to say and after realizing she had been staring, she dropped her gaze and stumbled as she walked. By Hakeshna, what was this man doing to her and why did she always feel so awkward in his presence?
Attila's expression sobered and he was silent for a short time, peering up at her from the corner of his eye. "I apologize, Your Grace, I did not mean to startle you."
"Do not apologize. It is I who tire. Perhaps I should return to my camp."
Attila frowned and he gripped her hand a little. But soon he loosened his grip. "If that is your wish," he said, returning a smile to her. "Shall I escort you?"
Color heated to her cheeks, her gaze locked on his, and before she had a chance to speak other wise, she answered him,
"Yes."
Attila smiled softly and bowed his head to her, as he was quickly becoming wont to do, before offering her his arm, and leading the way back to her encampment. "As you wish, Your Grace," he said with a smile.
Persea's heart dropped at the revelation of what she was doing. Even though she knew she was doing the right thing, she had to return to her entourage after all, (lest them come looking for her), but apart of her felt torn. She enjoyed Attila's company and found herself pouting as they made their way back to her camp. Though had she known she was doing it, she might have hid her emotions more carefully, but as it were, she was very easily distracted by the millions of thoughts plaguing her mind.
"I'm sorry Your Grace, is something wrong?" Attila asked.
Persea was broken from her train of thought when Attila spoke. She blinked and peered up at him curiously.
"N-no! I surmise it's simply the heat of the day."
And she forced herself to smile at him as she draped a hand against her forehead. "I had missed my afternoon nap to play in the water with you." And here she gave him a sheepish smile. "Perhaps you just are noting the tiredness in my countenance?"
"No...it doesn't seem to be tiredness," he said. "It seems to be something...else. You're eyes, they seem to be filled with almost a sadness. I hope I do not step out of line by saying so, Your Grace."
While Persea was hoping Attila would buy into her excuse, she couldn't help but frown at what he admitted to actually seeing.
"Sadness?" She laughed, and it sounded even hollow to her as she turned from him. "I am the Shah. Why would I ever have reason for sadness?"
"I cannot say. But I know even gods and goddesses may experience sorrow. Perhaps you would have a great many reasons for sadness, perhaps even some you are unaware of."
Her face went long as she peered at him.
"Sadness I am unaware of?" There came the hollow laugh again. "Then if I am unaware, let it be forgotten before it is even realized."
Attila found himself leaning in and his hand idly caressed her cheek. He withdrew it quickly and soon he smiled. "As you decree, Your Grace."
His touch, be it simple and brief, made her freeze in her stride. Even his smile barely broke it as she found herself tripping over own two feet when she tried to walk.
Attila caught her stumble, holding her upright. "Are you okay, Your Grace?" he asked.
"Yes," she replied tersely, becoming rigid in his arms. "I think I have been swimming for too long. Please, let's make haste back to my tent." For she could endure this no longer.
"Very well," he replied, bowed and returned her to camp at last. They weren't that far from their destination and when he took his leave, Attila bowed to her and turned away in silence.
The day had been long and arduous. From the dangers she first encountered upon arriving, to the moment stolen away with Attila, the Shah's mind was in a whirl. She could not for the life of her not stop thinking about him, even after the first great crocodile was brought forth to her after the games had begun. It had been a fair specimen, captured alive, though she found herself forcing her smile as her eyes returned to the waters.
Thinking to Attila...
Thinking about the sea.
He did not vanish for long and once the games had begun, he returned to the afternoon banquet as the attendees all gathered around the Shah's encampment.
The evening went on as expected, and soon some great hunters were returning with their prizes. Persea's eyes glittered at such a collection of dead (and some alive..) crocodiles, all for her! Such deadly creatures men would dare face in her owner, and she praised and blessed each one of them, as she sat upon her gilded chair, slaves all around her, fanning her off- and a lush canopy above her head- keeping away the sun.
And while the event proceeded, it was finally time for the late afternoon banquet to begin, and as the honored guests began to appear, she managed to catch Attila among the crowd.
Attila was seen in the company of that woman from the North, Connlaoth it was called. He found her strange but amicable company and he drank and laughed with ease.
It wasn't hard to spot him amongst the crowd, then again, he was also associating with the golden haired merchant princess. Persea never knew what to make of her, but today she decided she didn't like her- and how Attila smiled at her and how her hair seemed to shine in the sun, as if made from the rays itself. But instead of approaching him, she silently seethed as she watched the pair, pretending not to, but her green eyes slipped there way more than once.
Attila had turned his gaze, slowly it seemed and found himself meeting green eyes coming his way. He smiled softly and bowed his head at her, much in the way he always had and raised his glass toward her. All that before slowly making his way over.
Persea blinked and nodded her head back in recognition, but found herself tensing as he began to head her way, and her heart beat could be heard well into her ears. Was he... was he really approaching her?
"Your Eminence," Attila said, bowing after making his way to her. "I am glad to have the opportunity to bask in your presence this afternoon."
Persea, who was slightly rigid at his approach, eased into a smile and nodded her head down to him.
"So you haven't tired of me from the morning?"
Attila bowed his head, smiling steadily. "How could anyone tire of your radiance?" He laughed a little. "In all honesty, actually I was hoping I could speak with you. I am surprised your guards haven't taken their blades to my throat just yet."
Persea gave a smug grin, pleased by his response.
"My guards know better than to challenge a guest, and they know we have made acquaintances before. But you said you wished to speak to me? Was there anything specific you wanted to say?" And she leaned a bit closer to him, eager for a reply.
Attila bowed his head once more, laughing in jest. "I should like to think that your guard would put their lives before yours," he replied. "Yes. I have come hoping that you would to honor me with your comany, and a drink."
Persea's eyes brightened.
"But of course. How could I refuse?"
"Hopefully, if fortune truly favors the bold, you will find no excuse to refuse," Attila said, bowing and smiling charmingly at her. He gave her leave, room to join him, and even offered her his arm if she wanted to take it.
"There is a quieter corner over there if you wish to talk," he said. "Or perhaps we could go outside. Whatever Her Eminence desires."
"A drink outside seems refreshing. We can have one and watch the sunset. It will be splendid."
"As it pleases you," Attila smiled and led her outside with drinks in hand. He offered one to her in reverence and watched the vibrant colors of the sky. "Imagine all the colors the Great Hakeshna thought to bring to this world. It's brilliant."
Persea gave a nod, and smiled as she watched the sky change. The colors were beautiful and the color bathed the world in a sweet color of pink. She even felt a little pink herself as she drank her drink, and a little quickly, for when she went to take another sip, she had to smile at herself and shake her head- for it was already all gone!
Attila watched her with amused silence. He drank slowly, not wanting to spoil his mind too quickly after all. When she found her cup was empty, he chuckled and gestured to a servant to offer another and Attila handed it to her with a bow. "Still thirsty, I hope," he said gently.
"Yes, I am," she said with a contented sigh. "Thank you." And she moved to delicately tuck back her hair from her face, but a few beaded strands fell back into her eyes.
Attila cut a glance her way, then reached out to brush her hair from her eyes.
Persea blushed and cast her eyes down from him, then stole a glance his way.
She was feeling a lot more confident with alcohol in her belly, though it even surprised herself when she found herself asking, "Would it be so bold of me to kiss you now? I've never kissed a man before. Not... in the way a woman should kiss a man. And I find myself often times thinking of such things when I'm with you."
Attila blinked at her, a little taken aback by her request but his smile was only gentle. "I must admit I'm a little surprised. I'm not quite sure what to say. I certainly admire boldness."
She hadn't expected his hesitation. Surely he did not find her repulsive? The entire country adored her, reveled in her presence- even proclaimed her a Goddess of beauty! Surely he must simply be hesitant of that? But where he said he admired boldness, so did she, so to see him hesitate, that smile began to fade. Drunk or not, Persea was not pleased.
"Then you shall say nothing and this moment shall be forgotten." For if she spoke it, it was to be done! She was never so embarrassed in all of her life, and now that she had a moment to sober a bit, she only felt all the more awful for his reply.
To think, she was just rejected when she asked for her first kiss!
Attila furrowed his brow. "Oh, forgive me, Your Eminence. It was simply that I am unsure to my worthiness to recieve such an action from one as esteemed as yourself. My apologies if it was taken the wrong thing. Please. I would be honored to recieve a kiss from you. If you would be willing to give it," he said with another reverent bow.
Persea pursed her lips and turned away from him. The mood had already been soured.
"The willingness has come and gone,"s he went on, nose to the air.
"As it pleases you," Attila said with another bow of his head. He gave her a smile still and gestured to the path ahead of them. "Would you care to take a walk?"
"I do not think I am in the mood for a walk. I have exerted myself enough for one day."
Attila bowed his head then nodded. "Then I will take my leave. As ever, it is a pleasure to speak with you, Your Eminence," he said with a smile, bowed deeply and turned to leave.
Persea kept her head up tall and prideful and watched as the man made his leave. She wasn't certain how she ought to be feeling, but one thing was for certain, was that her stomach was tied up in knots and her throat was growing dry. She barked orders for a drink from her servants, and acted overwhelmingly irritable for the rest of the day. And no matter what she did to keep her mind off of it, she could not stop thinking about Attila...
and how her first request for a kiss was thwarted. Pissed at the fact, she told her servants she was to nap and not to be disturbed for any reason.
And soon she disappeared into her tent and dropped onto her pile of pillows as her mind raced and she flopped about restlessly.
And she was not disturbed. Not for any benign reason. "Attila" retired too for the night, grinning inwardly at Persea's thwarted kiss. It almost made him laugh at the thought that she actually asked him. He would have expected more out of her frankly. But she was accustomed to not thinking for herself and having everyone bend to her whim. It was a curious experiment nevertheless.
Attila wandered out toward the evening riverside, undisturbed by guards and servants alike, peering out as moonlight danced on the water's surface.
It wasn't until the sun was setting did Persea rouse. She still felt restless, however, and found herself pacing about her camp site. It was after the sun had gone down that she announced she wished to go on a stroll, and this time, a trio of servants and guards accompanied her, and as they walked, she ignored the figure by the sea. She was far enough in land not to know who it was, but didn't want to be bothered by anyone else. Even her servants and guards..
but she knew better than to call them off.
But she still felt stifled and found herself walking just a little bit faster down the sandy trail.
Attila saw someone walking down the trail behind him, as he sat perched upon a rock. All was quiet save for the crunch of sand underneath their sandals and he surreptitiously stole a glance behind him to notice it was the Shah herself along with a small entourage - of sorts. He found himself grinning but turned his attention back to the waters, looking at the surface, watching the ripples pass by.
"I heard there is a spring around here. One of pure water," the Shah began. "Take me to it. I'd like to sample its waters." And she hoped the rumors were true that the spring helped bring a sense of calming and peace.
He supposed he was curious and it would not do to be caught following the Shah around in the dark. Still, however, it was probably good to see what she was up to, so Attila followed.
At the Shah's request, she was taken to 'The Springs of Orsis.' The waters here were warm and tranquil, and a bright array of water lillies and reeds grew across the water's surface, and the water was so blue, it could put the sky to shame.
At the sight of such a thing, her eyes lit up and she commanded her men to keep watch while her servants undressed her. And then she stepped out into the waters, but not going too deep. Even after she had 'learned' to swim,s he was still hesitate to give it a real try. So she remained bobbing about in the shallow waters, until she found a nice place beneath a small water fall and remained there for a time, allowing the waters to rush over her, down her scalp, through her hair, and flowing down her body in warm gushes.
It felt so good. She gave a sigh, and just let herself melt away into the moment.
She was almost alone. Attila had crept through the underbrush, blending in softly and peering through the shadows. She was sensual and beautiful and he found himself staring at the way the fading evening light played along her skin. He grinned, and when the way was clear passed through the brush, between the trees and quietly slipped into the waters.
It seemed both her and her guards were none the wiser. If Attila were an assassin, or had other dark purposes against the young queen, then her fate would be sealed by him, for she was ignorant as she remained in her world of water and bliss.
Attila approached from behind her, wading through the waters until he rose to the stone precipice upon which she was standing. "A lovely evening isn't it?" he asked. He smiled as he wandered along the edge, passing underneath the waterfall.
Persea gasped as she whirled around, and was so stunned at who she saw, she froze in place and couldn't speak, and nearly slipped from the rock itself.
Attila moved swiftly to catch her, his arms wrapping around her and pulling her up. "Careful! You could break your leg or an arm falling from the ledge like that," he said with a small grin.
Persea was pulled so fast and so close to him, she swore her heart stopped beating in the moment, and was probably caught well past her throat and into her ears, for when it started again, that's where it hammered. She found herself releasing a breath, then opening her lips to speak, but only found herself stuttering out, "Attila!" And she looked around, over to where her guards seemed none the wiser of their situation. And her eyes went back to him. "How is it that you have approached me?"
Attila stepped back a little and gave an innocent shrug. "I wanted to go for a swim?" He laughed and shook his head. "I jest your grace. I suppose I arrived shortly before you did and just did not see you."
She stared at him, still puzzled before she shook her head and peered around.
"Should my guards find you," she said, voice lowered. "You will be in a lot of trouble."
"Only if you alert them. They will obey your every command," Attila said, bowing again. "If you like, I can slip away and it will be as if I was never here."
She was about to protest at such an idea, but grew quiet as she recalled what happened earlier. She found herself needing to lower her gaze.
"Perhaps you should..." She whispered.
"I'm sorry, I did not hear you," Attila muttered and cupped his ear.
Her lips tightened as she went rigid and raised her chin.
"I said perhaps you should." And she raised her voice, but only just so so that Attila could hear her but her guards could not.
Attila dropped his gaze just so and, considering the notion, bowed his head. "Very well," he said. "I'm afraid however you leave me no choice but to politely refuse."
Persea was taken back.
"Refuse?"
"I wanted to apologize earlier," he said, his expression sobering. He reached for her hand and brought it to his lips, kissing the top of it lightly. "I presume nothing, but I wanted to at least get the opportunity to say that." He released her hand and bowed once more. "I will always appreciate being in your company. And I hope to do so for as long as possible. You are...an enlightening woman, good to talk to, intelligent, stunning..." He smiled and bowed his head.
Persea stared at him, speechless for a moment before she saw something move behind them. And suddenly a blade was drawn.
"Dissus!" she exclaimed, and the guard went on to explain,
"This man has come upon you unsolicited. How shall we handle him?"
Persea blinked as she tried to register what had happened, but replied with a simple, "he is not unsolicited. He is with me."
And Dissus stared at the Shah a moment.
"Your majesty?"
"You may sheath your weapon and take your leave. But you have done well to check in on me. But please, leave us to talk."
And the man hesitated not to put away his sword and left.
Attila froze when Dissus spoke and he turned around tossee the blade pointed at him. When Persea actually turned him away, he visibly relaxed and looked at the Shah. "Thank you," he murmured, meaning every word of it.
Persea cut him a look.
"I should not have helped!"
Attila frowned and bowed his head. "I am truly sorry, Your Grace. Is there anything I could possibly do to make up for my transgression? Anything at all."
The Shah stared at him before she huffed, "The only help I would need from you now is to dispel any rumors this may have caused. To see a.man in such a place while I am unwed..."
"I see," he said. "And what rumors would those be?"
Persea felt her temper flare.
"That my innocence has been compromised!" Though Essryn was a very open nation over sexuality, a female Shah had a lot of expectations that a male one would not.
"Well. Has it?" he asked casually, leaning against the stone of the cliff, the waterfall coursing down beside them.
Persea glared.
"That is not the problem. My people, the people of Essryn... They will assume!"
"They will not," Attila said with casual assurity. "Your guard understands the need for discretion. He will respect the privacy of his Shah's company, knowing a single misplaced word could have his head separated from his body."
Persea stared. It was well within her power to do so,.but oh, that would make such a scandal!
"I will ask you again to leave."
Attila stood there with raised brows, his arms crossed over his chest. "Thank you, but no. I think I will go for a swim," he murmured.
Her green eyes flared and she gave a stomp of her foot.
"Your Shah demands it, so it shall be!"
Attila raised his head to her, squaring his shoulders and stepping toward her. "Very well. But for a price," he said, looking at her with darkened eyes. "A kiss, and I will be on my way."
Persea was taken back.
"A kiss?"
What did he mean on asking for that now of all occassions?
"A simple kiss," he said, holding his hands behind his back. "Nothing more and nothing less. And I will vacate your company, as you've dictated."
She still stared at him, uncertain what to make of such a request.
"But you are in no position to ask for requests. I could call the guards back here. They'd have no qualms taking you away."
"But that would surely cause more of a commotion. Isn't that what you are trying to avoid?" he asked with raised brows. "It would be a small token surely, for one as bountiful as you."
Her temper continued to flare.
"I will not be apart of this game! No one demands of the Shah! NO ONE!"
"Oh shut up," and with that he sealed his mouth to hers in a brief kiss but strong kiss and pulled away after a fiery second. He stepped away for a moment, bowing. "Then as you wish, my Shah."
Before she knew it, a plague of a thousand fires danced within her, awakening sensations from deep within. She felt herself blushing, and doing so all over. But before she knew what was happening, he had already pulled away, leaving her staring breathlessly.
Attila stared at her for a moment, before bowing his head again. "If it is still your wish, I will leave. But you must say it."
It was only at Attila's words this time around did Persea break herself from her stare. She blinked at him, curiously so before opening her lips...
But nothing came out.
Attila blinked at her, returning her stare before stepping forward and leaning down to kiss her lips once more.
This time a noise did come out, a soft, muffled moaning breath as it was stolen from her the second his lips sealed over hers. She felt her heart fluttering, and pounding all the way into her ears as her body felt weightless and hot and somehow, her hands found themselves wrapping around Attila's arms as she dared to take a step in closer, to press herself in closely, and seal herself into another kiss.
Attila guided her through the experience of the kiss, leaning his head in just right as he pressed his lips to hers. He neither forced the pressure nor relented too much.
She had always dreamed of the moment she'd be able to kiss a man, and a man as handsome and strong and personable as Attila was the first one she found herself willing to open up to- if only just a little. She still had to wear her mask, to be the Shah, but with him she felt almost at home, and also curious to see where the fire's of attraction may lead.
As the kiss continued, she found herself whimpering softly, before finally finding herself pulling away.
"That was.." she felt her heart flutter again as she opened her green eyes to look into his. But what could she say? She felt foolish she had already started as she studied his face.
"It felt like fire." And she paused, and asked, more quietly, delicately. "Are all kisses like that?"
The kiss hadn't necessarily been a chaste one, but neither had he made it completely ravenous. He had felt the fire too and he panted lightly when she parted lips. A smile spread across his lips.
He could hardly believe himself when he felt himself become flushed. "Only the good ones," he murmured. "They can be even better depending on how you do it."
Her cheeks turned pink, and she hesitated before she asked, "They can be performed in.... other ways?"
"A few ways," Attila said and gave a sweet smile. "But that can be explored later. I'm glad you enjoyed the kiss. I did too."
At such a remark, she tensed.
"Later?" She had never said there would be a later! Not that she'd completely mind... but....
"Only if you wish," he said with a nod and pushed her damp hair from her face.
She released a quivering breath.
"We shall see," her words came out, breathlessly.
Attila smiled gently at her and his hand trailed down to her chin. "In the meantime, shall we take a swim?"
She felt her cheeks burn at such a suggestion. She wasn't even sure if her legs would work! But she found herself nodding anyways. Not that she could speak. Her tongue was again, useless.
"We can start in the shallow end," he said and offered her his hand. He gently led her into the end of the pool where the cliff round off and soon they were wading through it, floating just lightly. "See? That's not so hard is it?"
She felt so silly, being guided into the waters after having been kissed by a man...
and here her emotions were still not quite sorted out, for as they waded, her foot found a slipper rock as she gasped and slipped forward, right into Attila's side.
She slipped and nearly slid past him, but his arms reached out for her in time. Attila gripped her arms, gentle and set her down onto the stone underneath his own feet and chuckled lightly. "You really should watch your step. It wouldn't do for you to get hurt, Your Grace," he said as he righted her, though his arms still lingered around her.
Once she felt her balance returned to her, she peered up curiously at him.
"I have to be careful with a lot of things," she murmured.
"I trust your judgment," he said and offered her a smile before gently releasing her and he took her hands, wading through the water. "Remember what I taught you? Or do you still need help?"
"I do not forget easily," she replied, and hesitated briefly before she moved, as gracefully as she could before him with ease. It was almost as if she were an expert, but she was more or less just good at feigning confidence.
Attila watched her with curious eyes as she swam a little and he clapped his hands lightly. "Oh? You're an excellent student," he said and waded off after her. He stroked backwards, floating along his back.
"This is even more fun, than swimming on your front."
"What? To swim with your belly to the sky?"
Attila laughed. "Of course," he said and swam around her. "Doesn't my belly look nice enough to face the sky?"
She looked away to hide her smile.
"I suppose if you wish to impress the sun and clouds."
"What if I intend to impress you?" he asked with a toothy grin. He swam closer and around her, in a circle.
"Impress me?" She spared him a small glance and shook her head. "Maybe if you were swimming with your belly down." And at such a thought, she smirked- considering that would be a dead man's float!
Attila turned over and waded beside her, laughing still, even at the tone of her words. "But belly up is so much more relaxing. You must try it. I can help you. I'll help you balance."
"Oh? Why is that? Do you enjoy being a teacher?"
"You could say that," Attila replied. "Or you might infer I enjoy spending time with you. Which I do. Now do you wish to learn or are you set on breaststroke?"
"And would enjoying spending time with me have anything to do with me being the Shah?"
"Oh are you a Shah? I hadn't noticed," Attila replied with a playful smirk. "What a wonder to make your acquaintance."
Persea splashed some water his way angrily, but it was hard for her to hide her smirk.
Attila floundered under the watersplash and came up for air at last, splashing her back. "Hey!" he tried to sound indignant but was incapable of doing so between laughs. "That was uncalled for."
"You would dare oppose the Shah?" she asked, brows raised.
"It depends. Does the Shah wish for me to drown?" he asked with a crooked smirk.
"Can a man like you drown?" she retorted.
"I wouldn't care to try or test it," he smirked and swam closer to her until he snaked is arm around her waist and he kissed her.
The kiss took her by surprise, and was hardly unwanted. She felt the same fluttering within her belly and tickling through her limbs as he kissed her, and she could not help herself but utter a whimpering breath as she leaned into him to deepen the kiss.
Attila tilted his head as she kissed him back and pressed his mouth harder into hers. He slipped in a little tongue, seeking to part her lips with his, coaxing her into a deeper kiss, gently running his tongue along hers.
At first the tongue startled her, but the sensations heating through her made her realize how much she liked it, and instinctively moved her body closer to his as she mimicked his actions and let her tongue wrestle his.
He kissed her hungrily and his hands snaked along her body, pressing into heated flesh. Soon his lungs began to hurt and he had to pull away to breathe, pulling on her lip as their mouths parted. He panted lightly, a small grin touching his lips. "That was another way to kiss," he said.
By the time he spoke, she was dizzy and hot all over. And she peered at him, it was almost through him before she blinked and peered up at him with a new sort of expression, one that spoke of a curious sort of lust.
"Oh... and are there.. other ways to kiss besides that?" Because well, though it was unusual, she rather liked it.
He chuckled. "There are a few, some more intimate. A kiss can be explorative, intimate...erotic..." He leaned down and kissed her cheek, her mouth and down by her throat, leaving wet kisses and gently working his tongue against her skin. "Depending on where you kiss, there can be all sorts of effects. Even a simple kiss on the wrist can be exhilarating,"
Attila reached for her wrists and kissed along her pulse.
Persea found herself beneath all of such effects and her cheeks flushed fiercely.
"And how is it that you know so much..."s he found herself asking, through a breath. "About... kissing?"
Attila leaned in and kissed the other side of her neck. "Some I learned while reading, some through practice," he murmured and let his fingertis slide down along her belly. "Some through creative exploration."
Her hands smoothed up his body as she leaned in, taking.in the scent of his neck and hair and the warmth of his body. Her lips moved in, tasting lightly of his flesh, trailing light then deep alternating kisses before she paused to peer up at him.
"You mean like that?"
He sighed as pleasant shivers moved down his skin. She miight have been inexperienced, but her willingness to try made it rather titillating. Attila chuckled and nodded. "That's nice," he murmured.
Attila leaned in to kiss her neck and trailed down along her body until he reached her breasts, kissing between them. "Or like this," he said before taking a breasts between his lips.
Persea let out a soft gasp when his lips moved lower, and she felt the wet warmth of his mouth over her breast, and her nipples hardened. She felt the same warmth growing between her legs that made her squirm, and she found herself feeling dizzy as her lips moved towards his neck again where she kissed at his flesh after moving his hair aside, then trailed down to press them against his shoulder while moaning softly between each kiss.
Attila moaned against her breast, his blood growing hot and roaring in his ears. His pulse was a wild war drum, beating away as he dragged his lips down her naked body, crawling down to his knees as if in worship, kissing along her belly.
When she felt his lips going lower, she leaned over his shoulder, hair ticking his arm and back while her hands smoothed down his back, feeling all of his powerful, strong muscles, the warmth of his flesh as the heat within her was growing stronger. She didn't know what was possessing her, but she could not stop, and enjoyed just sampling his skin beneath her touch, as soft breaths of appreciation came out.
Attila kissed along the skin of her sex when his head suddenly went below water level and he held his breath as he began to lap at the warmth between her legs. He allowed his tongue to slide along her skin, even as air bubbled to the surface.
She froze in place. Never had she been tasted in such a way, or touched, or kissed... or anything. It made her veins tingle and her heart flutter up into her throat, as her breath caught into her lungs, her eyes closing tight and soon,s he wasn't able to hold back her moan.
And that's exactly when one of her personal servant's heard them, and at the sound of her voice, she tensed, her hands, which were in Attila's hair, did so as well, almost painfully so- but he'd be able to hear the voice calling to them, even below the surface of the water.
Attila had continued his ministrations until he heard the sudden investigative voice of the servant as they emerged from the brush. Attila suddenly sunk lower into the water, at the behest of Persea's grip in his hair, holding his breath. His lungs protested with tendrils of pain.
"Your Grace?" the servant said as she stepped through the brush. "Is everything all right?"
Not sure what to say, she remained frozen for a moment before turning to look over her shoulder at her servant.
"Kah-lah, yes... I am fine."
Her servant raised her brows.
"But I heard a noise, I thought..." And then as she looked around, she found that the man who had been there earlier was gone. And she turned her eyes back to the Shah.
"The man who was with you... has he gone?"
Persea grit her teeth. Shit! What was she to say?
Thankfully, Attila was heavy enough to sink right to the bottom, but his lungs screamed for air. He could only hope that Persea could send the wretched girl away in time before he passed out.
"Y-yes!" Persea snapped. "I sent him off, as should you. I wish to be alone!"
"Are you certain, Your Grace?" the girl said meekly. "I do not mean to question you, but you do not seem yourself."
Her face heated more red as her mind panicked.
"That is because I wish for.solace but find no.peace!"
The servant jumped up at her tone and suddenly bowed her head. "Yes, Your Grace, I do apologize. Excuse me," she said and departed with haste.
Attila suddenly grabbed for Persea's leg, using her body to pull himself up once the woman was gone, panting heavily.
"By Hakeshna's name, Attila! Keep low, lest Kah-lah sees you!"
The girl was a nosy one, but Attila kept low to a growth of reeds and dripped the water from his nose. "Act casual," he whispered. "Tell me when the coast is clear."
Persea continued to look around, but Kah-lah was still lurking around the bank.
Kah-lah lingered around the edge of the pool, collecting palm leaves with her back to the Shah, but Attila remained put when he saw her.
"Get rid of her," Attila murmured. "She's going to find any excuse to stay."
"Get rid of her? And how without it being suspicious?"
"You're the Shah are you not?" Attila hissed. "Give her some impossible task."
"Impossible task?" Persea stared down at him indignantly. "I am not so heartless."
But what else could she do? Things were looking at lot more suspicious now... especially the way Kah-lah kept eyeing the pair of them.
"Then ask her to retrieve you some fruit to eat. Wild Bloom Berries only grow on the drier side of the river. It will be a while before she would return," Attila said.
Persea chewed on her lip, and though she did as he asked, there was a knot of guilt tying in her belly. And even though Kahlah took her leave, she knew it wouldn't be long before another servant came to check on her. So with some reluctance she told him, " We ought to part ways here. My guards... Surely they'd send another to watch over me."
Attila peered and Persea and moved toward the water's edge where he was not so readily seen. He pulled himself out of the water and bowed his head. "As you wish, Your Grace," he said, flashing her a grin and reaching for his clothes.
Biting her lip, she withheld any words, fearing she'd say or do something that were erected from the heat of the moment. She only gave him a nod, and turned her back to him.
Attila cast one final glance at her, grining inwardly before slipping into the shadows. When he was at last alone, slipping behind a small passage of stone, concealed from all view except that which lay before him, he redressed and knew he'd best slip back into camp.
The night went on as usual, and any indication that there could have been some sort of a scandal with the Shah was abandoned for the tasks at hand. Night and it's meal was prepared, and the next day's events reviewed, and to bed Persea went, utterly exhausted as she fell into a fitful sleep.
When she awoke, she bathed, as normal; though she was much more adamant about it happening before her meal, so as to ease the tensions from the night. Today was when the eggs of crocodiles were to be presented to her, and thusly counted and appraised for a prize. Though that event was not to conclude until the night, so she had most of the day to herself.
She preferred lounging near the river reeds, as their soft rustling int he winds reminded her of the times spent with her father. She couldn't have dreamed that this tranquil moment could be anything but perfect, as her mind drifted to where Attila's lips had traveled the night before.
Instantly her body heat rose and she tensed. She sunk her teeth into her lower lip and closed her eyes- just in time for them to open suddenly at a scream. And before she knew what had happened, her entire tent was upturned and collapsed over top of her- and the dry scalesa nd grunts of a crocodile near to her made it her time to scream.
[Took a few small liberties. If you need me to change anything, let me know.]
The time had come to move the caravans along, up river, where the next stage of the Grand Crocodile Hunt was about to go underway. In the hours preceding morning, caravaners packed and loaded kaadir and horses and other animals to move. Some lords complained about it, some reveled in what more they could kill. But for Agrian, his mind was elsewhere.
He had to remind himself that he was no longer a slave in the arena. At least not for the moment. He went wherever his mistress Evelyn went, as her servant, as her guard, or whatever she tasked him with. Thankfully, he'd been allowed to keep his helm. He'd taken to wearing it, a token of his gladiator days, perhaps as a method of mourning, perhaps as a salute; but the real reason, he would never say.
Agrian thought to the evening before. He smiled at the thought that he'd been one of the few men who'd been able to see the Shah, in all her glory, and he found himself laughing quietly to himself.
"Quiet, slave!" growled Hassan, a 'majordomo' that had taken to greatly disliking Agrian's sudden favor with Evelyn. "Get some water from the river! The Mistress is visiting with the Shah's entourage today and she doesn't need you smelling like a pig in shit."
Agrian glared at Hassan, watching the tall, hairy, swine walk away. Speaking of a pig in shit, Hassan was likely unhappy as he had to tend to the Kaadir today. Poor slob.
And that was when he heard the scream. Agrian turned around, watching the familiar tent of Persea's fall down in a heap as a large crocodile came out of the water.
He didn't think as he leapt into action, snatching a net and a trident out from the side of the river path, and ran toward the beast.
Persea panicked. It felt as though she were drowning in her fallen tent. And knowing the beast was so close only amplified her fear. But as much as she struggled, she could not escape and soon found herself suddenly being trampled over by the mighty beast. And all she could think about was 'this was the end'.
The massive crocodile hissed and swerved on Agrian, and he stood at the ready, stepping unwittingly on the lump that was Persea, as she trapped beneath the canvas of her tent. He turned this way, trying to circle around the beast, but it was swift and countered his every movement.
He flung the net, trying to lure it one, way to find an opening, to gut it with the trident in his other hand.
The fight going on literally over top of her was more than she could.bear. she could feel the claws of.the beast digging into her, and the weight of its body- cracking bone. And as the crocodile.moved away, the tent caught on its leg in such a way that as the fabric was being pulled,.it caught around her throat, and choked her until she was seeing white.
The crocodile swooped around and scurried away from Agrian. But the gladiator jumped off of Persea's body and threw the net when the angle presented itself. The weights around the end knotted around the beast's head and Agrian threw himself toward the beast. The crocodile hissed as it rounded on Agrian, but the trident was ready and he stuck it out until it slammed in through the animal's mouth, the spikes piercing into the upper part of its mouth.
Feeling the weight of the crocodile leave her, she wanted nothing more than to just run away to whatever safe place she could. But instead, she remained where she was beneath the tent cloth, shivering in fear.
When the crocodile was dead, its heavy weight slumped to the ground, shaking it in fury. Agrian staggered backwards, tripping over the lump that was Persea again. "What the?"
Agrian climbed to his knees and pulled the canvas from the Shah.
Fear was a crazy thing, but the moment was blindingly crazy. And once she was finally free of the collapsed tent, she clung to the first real human nearby-
and that was the helmeted version of Agrian who- she had no idea who or what he was until she pulled back from her terrified embrace to thank him.
ANd when she did, her eyes widened.
Those eyes...
that helmet..
By the Gods...
It was him.
Agrian said nothing. In fact he stood as still as stone when she embraced him and remained stoic in the face of her sudden shock. He simply stared at her. And that was when he felt it. The lash came ripping out from behind him, cracking like thunder and Agrian fell to his knees, crying out.
"Don't you dare look upon the Shah, slave!" came the voice of one of her guards. He stalked toward Agrian and whipped him again, this time batting him off to the side. Agrian fell hard to the ground, shielding his face from further assault when the helmet slipped from his head.
[Agrian should have his beard already and hopefully won't be recognizable even without his helmet. And maybe Elizabeth can make an appearance and protect her 'property' or something. Just thoughts.]
OOC: His mistress's name is Evelyn 8D not Elizabeth loool
OOC:
The crack of the whip was enough to freeze her into place, and the second few- chill her into terror. IT was one thing to witness a whipping she had instructed, but to be so close and to witness it so contemptuously,...
It was here she found herself shrieking out the command, "STOP!" and her voice echoed like the whip into the air as all activity ceased.
[Whoops! Lol!]
Agrian's panted amid the pain that throbbed along his back and side. The guard, however, immediately ceased his assault and bowed his head. "I am sorry, Your Grace," he said, keeping his gaze averted.
Agrian only partly looked between the guard and the Shah, but still didn't stand, not just yet.
Her gaze was hot upon the guard before she turned it to the fallen man. She stared at the helmet, then to the wild hair and bearded slave at her feet.
"You... you're the slave who defied me in the arena," she said, her voice commanding enough to let him know she desired an answer- and he'd better not skirt around it.
Agrian crawled to his knees, finding enough strength through the pain to stand. "I am," he said and looked at her in the eyes.
Those eyes...
the very sight of them sent a chill through her veins and her belly felt as if it were full of one large, heavy stone. She found it difficult to swallow, or speak, or even tear her gaze away. But there was always something familiar about those feral eyes. Like there was something... deeper to this slave's wildness.
Before she could speak, Evelyn- the unfortunate owner of Agrian, rushed onto the scene.
"Oh, by Hakeshna!" she said,and dropped to her knees before the Shah- for even she was no fool to ignore her place. "Please, this disobedient slave is my own. I am sorry if he has done anything to offend!"
Agrian was stunned, having forgotten that he'd been with Evelyn earlier, and to watch her grovel like that. He gave a gentle sigh of relief. He said nothing, however, and simply watched the Shah and his owner in due silence.
The words took a good moment to sink in before she realized what had happened. And slowly she let it settle in, even as Evelyn continued to grovel.
"Please, there is no need for shame, your slave here.." ANd she gestured to Agrian. "He just saved my life."
And just about everyone there turned their attentions to him, before hesitantly, someone stepped forward to confirm it. And all Evelyn could do was stare in awe.
"If anything, I should be thanking you. Come, this evening, to my home. And bring your slave. There, you will be properly thanked for your time."
And without giving her so much as a chance to protest, the Shah was gone, escorted back with a large entourage to her palace home. And Evelyn was still gaping until the last bits of the entourage were out of sight. Then she smacked Agrian's arm.
"I should have you whipped for this!"
Agrian stared wide-eyed at Evelyn before scowling. "If you didn't already notice, I've just been whipped," he growled. He reached for his fallen helmet and held it in his hands. "What are you going to do? Don't look at me like that. This wasn't planned. But since we're invited, we might as well bring the dead croc as a gift."
Evelyn huffed.
"For having paid good money for you, you'd think you'd adopt some manners. But I guess that's what I get for purchasing sloppy seconds from your master." She didn't like his former master anyhow. The man got his just desserts! But Agrian was right, and upon studying him she sighed.
"Come on, we've got plenty to do now in preparation for this evening. And starting with you getting a bath." He reeked!
Well, could she blame him, it was hot out! Agrian nodded and shook his head. He was lucky, he thought, that he could speak so candidly with his new 'Mistress'. Foreigners were looked down upon as it was, but buying a slave at least put to light that Evelyn was willing to accept some of their customs.
Agrian followed her back to their encampment. "Are you going to bathe me then, Mistress?" he said with a teasing glint in his eyes.
Evelyn shot him a look.
"You are in rare form today. How about you remedy that tongue, first. A slave has his place."
"As you wish," Agrian grinned and sobered considerably. "Shall I bathe in the river then, Mistress? Will at least let me use soap and a towel?"
She cast him another glare.
"No. But you will gather your own water for your own tub." She huffed. "We don't need you making more of a spectacle of yourself already."
Agrian said nothing more and instead bowed his head in understanding. He was quick to draw his bath and warmed the water in a hearth. He had some privacy, though many knew he deserved none of it, being a slave and all. But they were luckily separated by some blankets slung over twine between trees and he sunk himself into the waters.
Evelyn was growing impatient. Did a slave need to take so long at a bath? Tapping the blankets that kept him modest from the world, she huffed.
"Hurry up in there. I only need you clean enough that you won't embarrass me with your odor."
Besides, it wasn't like he needed the luxury of a long bath like a normal person!
Agrian sighed hotly and just about finished scrubbing his back, glaring lightly at the cloth and at his Mistress just on the other side of it. It wasn't often he got to relax so, but he supposed it couldn't last that long. He got up from the water, stark naked and drew the blanket from the rope that separated them and wrapped it around his waist.
"Finished," he said with a small grin, wondering if she looked where she ought not to, and moved for his clothes. Then he paused. "I'll need more decent clothes. These are a little old. Your slave should look presentable in the Shah's presence."
And poor Evelyn had a front row view of his penis. Leave it to a slave to be so vulgar! She turned away from him sharply and folded her arms across her chest.
"Then let us dress you and be on our way. We do not want to keep the Shah waiting."
"As my Mistress directs," he said with a now of his head and dutifully followed her to her tent.
The palace's limestone shined against the sun, mirroring it's intensity, blinding energy and beauty. The guards stationed in the front were quick to bow and guide the merchant princess and her champion slave inside, where they wasted little time in presenting them into the throne room of the Shah herself. She was present, sitting there and looking every bit like a statue, her crown sitting high upon her head with the iconic snake and wings of the goddess she represented. Her body had been painted in a similar fashion, and her clothing, gold and glittering sheer. And the moment the two approached her, Evelyn wasted no time in getting to her knees.
"Your grace."
And Persea nodded to her, and looked from merchant princess to slave.
"I trust your journey was amicable?"
Evelyn nodded.
"Yes, it was a beautiful ride and I thank you for asking and can only feel humbled by your presence and invitation for us to be within your sacred palace."
"Yes... not everyone is allowed within these walls," the Shah agreed. "But come, both of you rise," she went on, stepping up from her throne and using both hands to motion for them to stand.
"You are here as guests. You and your slave, who has saved my life, will be recognized for such deeds."