Presrop-Chapter Four: Lavellan
They were at the gates to Val Royeaux and Lavellan couldn't have felt more worried if she'd tried. The guards weren't allowing them to pass, saying that their city wouldn't accept heretics and godless elves. Cassandra was arguing loudly with the taller guard, trying to force her way into the city. She wasn't having much luck. Solas and Shepard were next to Lavellan, staying silent and observing Cassandra. Varric stood on the other side of her cracking jokes. Lavellan didn't even bother to listen to him, as much of his humor flew over her head. Surely there was a way they could get into the city, if only-
"My, my, what a scene we have over here," The voice came from behind the metal gates, a figured obscured beyond them. "I'm certain all of this fuss couldn't be over one small elf?"
The guard Cassandra had been yelling at straightened up and saluted as soon as the voice had spoken, "Madame de-I mean, First Enchanter, I apologize for this disturbance." He shot Cassandra a glare, "We'll have this rabble off as soon as possible."
"Now dear, why ever would you do that?" The guard was clearly confused at her question, but the First Enchanter payed him no mind, "Tell me, are these gates going to be opened anytime soon? I would find conversation so much easier if I could see your face."
The guards visibly paled as they rushed to open the gate for her. As the woman stepped through, Lavellan was immediately impressed by her. Her outfit shone in the midday sun, vibrant colors complimenting each other perfectly, and the look she gave the guards as she passed them froze Lavellan's blood, and it wasn't even directed at her. This woman was made of elegance and power. With a jolt, Lavellan realized that the First Enchanter was approaching her, although she was relieved to find a welcoming smile on the other woman's face.
"You are the Herald of Andraste, I presume?" The First Enchanter asked, eyes kind.
Lavellan felt blood rush to her cheeks, " I-yes, that's what they're calling me." She hated it.
"I am the First Enchanter to the Imperial Court of Orlais, although many call me Madame de Fer," Lavellan didn't know how to answer, unsure what 'de fur' meant. Seeing this, the First Enchanter clarified, "It is a quaint nickname meaning the Lady of Iron. You may simply call me Vivienne, as it is much less of a mouthful."
Lavellan smiled at that, "You can just call me Lavellan, that is, if you want. Also easier to say." Her blush intensified. She kept tripping over her words and backtracking. Lavellan hoped Vivienne wouldn't mind, as regal and composed as she was.
"Lavellan, yes. Much more pleasant on the tongue."
Vivenne looked as if she were going to continue, but it was then that Cassandra decided to step in, "I do not suppose you could help us enter the city, Madame.."
"Vivienne." Her eyes turned chilly as she looked at Cassandra. Lavellan couldn't understand why.
"Madame Vivienne, then. If you could help us-"
"I could." Vivienne turned back to Lavellan, expression softening, "And I will, provided you allow me a favor in return."
Lavellan blinked, but was quick to answer, "I-yes, what do you need?" Despite her attitude towards Cassandra, Lavellan had a good feeling about Vivienne.
"I would ask for the opportunity to help your Inquisition." Vivienne paused a moment before continuing, "Particularly, I would like to assist you personally, Lavellan. As you seem one of the few proper minds here."
Lavellan could see Cassandra tense up, obviously not wanting to continue to add people to their little inner circle. But the look the Seeker gave Lavellan told her that Cassandra would go along with what she suggested. Looking back at Vivienne, Lavellan knew she really had only one option, they needed to get into the city, "Of course. The Inquisition appreciates your help, as do I." Luckily Lavellan already liked Vivienne, so the decision wasn't a hard one.
Vivienne smiled, "Wonderful, darling. Come, and let Val Royeaux welcome you."