P.S. I wrote this in a daze so hoping not too many errors. I'll try to get out the next chapter soon as well so I can get to the exciting bit. Solas will still be absent in the next one as well, but don't despair. 3
Chapter 6: Guests of the Game
Rumors had swirled turbulently throughout Tevinter's high ranking Magisters within days of Lord Renault's recent breakdown. No one could tell what had happened or why, but the Magister had become severely depressed and destroyed parts of his estate last the member's of the Wolf's Den knew. Dorian had kept a safe distance and avoided sending any correspondence for about a month after. It was simply on the mouth of the few nobles who came to hire the two elves as temporary bodyguards. They even had a handful of buyers come through their minuscule shop mention the Magister briefly as they handled wares within.
Fenris kept his somber attitude for the most part and Barnaby even kept to his own hiding place for a few weeks. It was on occasion when going to grab a meal or drink that Fenris and Leone caught his eye. No one spoke of the Magister's missing slave and it was as if she never existed for no trace of her could have been found in the Wolf's Den or any location associated with the free elven siblings. After those initial few weeks had passed did Barnaby come by.
The sky had been fading to a luminescent ruby when he walked through their door. Rook was nowhere to be seen, but Leone knew he was near as well.
"Hello, there. How are you doing?" Leone inquired, crossing her arms behind the shop counter.
"Just fine and proper. Where's your brother?" he asked, keeping the facade.
"He's out getting another bottle of Sun Blonde Vint. We've been doing well in business lately. How fares your work?" she asked, slowly meandering out from behind the counter and loosening the curtains to cover the windows.
"The packages have been arriving safely and no damages thus far," Barnaby responded in turn. He began to head to their office as she locked the door. Only Fenris would be able to unlock it now with his own key so she too headed to the clustered room. The procurer had seen to the fireplace himself now that he was familiar with the layout. It crackled and grew as she walked in, settling into the chair across from the desk she usually sat in. Barnaby turned to face her with a cocked brow as she sat down in what was usually Fenris's chair.
"Sometimes I tire of sitting in the boss chair," she said with a wistful sigh and leaned back.
"I've never been much of a leader myself. Any new updates since our last mission?" Barnaby asked as he decided to sit in her usual spot and tapping his fingers on the now dirty desk. Papers and ink jars littered it in a haphazard manner.
"I intended to speak with Dorian once he feels safe, but all our recent jobs have produced nothing in terms of new information. We have been able to secure more funds, gain some respect and a few shipments however. Although...we've also had some downright disgusting propositions," Leone blurted out, disgust lacing her voice.
"I can only imagine," Barnaby laughed and they both quieted as they heard Fenris entering.
He came in carrying a small satchel over his shoulder.
"I managed to find a sale today – buy Sun Blonde Vint and get some dark liquor half off. So I picked up West Hill Brandy for you Leone. Shall I pour a glass of something for you as well, Barnaby?" Fenris questioned them, continuing to move about as he spoke.
"I'll take some brandy."
"Good choice," Fenris stated as he poured into some fine glasses – albeit with a few scratches – the spirits and handed them each their serving. "To…..a warm fire," Fenris said with a bit of fatigue as his hazel eyes caught theirs for a small cheer.
"...a fire that lives within each of us," Leone added wistfully with her own weariness. She shot back the glass, drinking it all.
"Well, aren't you sad sacks a pair? Sure you aren't related?" Barnaby chuckled with a shake of his head. He sipped on the brandy slowly and twirled it in his nimble fingers.
"Barnaby's packages have arrived safely he told me," Leone supplied to Fenris who had missed the introductory conversation.
"Wonderful, it pleases me that things have proceed smoothly thus far," Fenris sighed with relief. "I must say though, Leone -"
"Yes?"
"Outside of the few side jobs and sales we've had, our work has been quite easy in the past few weeks. I think it would probably be best to continue to gather some information before we take on any other missions," Fenris began. Leone nodded her head before standing to grab some more brandy. "As such and with our friend here nearby – I would like to request some time to myself. I wish to visit family for a few days." Although he did ask, Fenris's posture stiffened slightly and it was clear he would leave whether or not Leone agreed. It was just out of polite camaraderie that he asked her first. She smiled for she knew full well if she told Fenris he could not leave for a few days that he would go on without her. A part of her bitterly wished the same could be said for her absent lover – but she pushed it away. Despite her pain she positively felt comfort knowing Hawke was cared for at such depths.
"Of course, Fenris. Do give your wife my love," she told him, turning to face him with a smile. "Is she doing well or is it a casual visit?"
"Hawke is...adventurous as usual. She's been more cautious lately though," Fenris said and something prickled on the edges of Leone's conscious. Barnaby even took a note of something strange in the gloomy grump's voice.
"What is it?" Leone asked, suddenly feeling nervous and fearful. Had something happened, was she ill?
"...well…," Fenris stammered slightly and for the first time Leone got the impression he was nervous...maybe even embarrassed. Both of them waited as he tried to – not so quietly – clear his throat and even in the dark Leone detected a tint of blush on his cheeks as he softly said, "She's pregnant."
Silence encompassed the room as heavy as an elephant.
Leone's jaw had dropped abruptly and Barnaby's eyes widened while Fenris took the time to slowly sip at his drink.
"Maker preserve us. You knocked up the Champion," Barnaby finally said and Fenris choked on his drink. Leone started laughing at the flustered elf who had spilled half his drink on his lap. It was a wondrous moment and she wasn't really surprised, she just needed a second to imagine the Champion...pregnant. The woman who had nearly sacrificed herself but a few years ago at her word…she was alive and carrying her new companion's child.
Even Fenris couldn't glower at this time and a smirk appeared on his visage.
"Hell, my friend…," Leone started, trying to refrain from stuttering as she had swallowed a second drink and was pouring herself a third, "You can leave tonight."
"...I think I'll take you up on that. Care to have mine, Barnaby?" Fenris asked, handing the half empty glass to the thief. The blonde man nodded and took the glass.
"Be safe," he said and Fenris nodded. Before he took off Fenris came to stand by Leone's side.
"Whatever you do – don't do any mission before I return," Fenris said and Leone turned to him with a smile.
"Of course not," she said, reflecting a similar smirk. It felt strange momentarily between them and for a second she wondered – was this what it felt like to have a brother? She brushed it away and realized his countenance had grown sober once again. "Oh – what is it now brother?" she said, exaggerating the word 'brother' with heavy exasperation as she swaggered back to a cushioned chair.
"Promise me you won't," he requested with an edge to his voice. She bit back a chuckle as she took in the darkness hiding his face. Leone could tell it was important to him.
"I promise."
"Blood promise?"
"What?" both her and Barnaby sat up straight as Fenris unsheathed a short dagger and drew it across his palm. Blood skirted to the surface and he held his hand out. Stumbling slightly Leone moved quickly to draw her dagger before he bleed on the carpet. Her intoxicated mind though that was a silly concern – why was she so worried about the carpet? She was cutting herself to appease her brot – her too serious friend?
Her swaying mind barely registered their hands meeting and the cuts crossing, the tattoos on his body flaring briefly before returning to alabaster white. Then he nodded with content and gathered his things. She chuckled realizing he had packed earlier and even said so. Fenris smiled faintly at the two of them before taking his leave.
"When do you think he'll return?" Barnaby asked, taking the opportunity to pour another glass of the mostly full Sun Blonde that Fenris left behind.
Leone shifted and then pulled her chair closer to the desk so that her and Barnaby were closer. She went to grab both bottles and bring them back to settle between the two. It was a night of cheer and drinking, she wanted to feel the warmth of freedom from her memories. "Perhaps in a week, but no sooner. I know I wouldn't."
"Ah, yes. Love is quite exhilarating, dear. Tell me about your travels and such since we have plenty to drink before the sun rises," Barnaby suggested.
"Oh...I'm sure the tales have already come around about the Inquisitor and her ragtag band. And the great betrayer among them. Why not tell me tales of yourself Barnaby? What about you and that voluptuous pirate mistress I saw?"
"Well…," Barnaby replied with a quick clearing of his throat, "You'll have to allow me another drink of that brandy before I tell you about those escapades my dear. Or a kiss may do as well. Dear Isabela would be so jealous," he said with a wink.
A deep well of fear and loneliness welled up within Leone. It had been years since she had seen Solas. He had kept his distance and in their last meeting he had simply done his best to rescue her from his failure only to separate them again. Should she give other men a chance? She might never see Solas again if his wish met fruition. Tears filled her eyes rapidly and Barnaby caught the sheen of glistening moisture on her orbs of red.
"Ah, just teasing my sweet – I know you're heart aches for our fair lady," he said with a jovial laughter, gently grasping her callused hand. He planted a chaste kiss on it and sat it down, "What story shall I tell you about her? Perhaps our first meeting?" The kind and simple kiss had caught Leone off guard and dispelled the brief spell of desolation. She smiled, eagerly awaiting his tale.
"Yes, dear. Sounds wonderful," Leone announced, settling back into her chair as she pushed thoughts of Solas as far as she could.
After a full hangover and a week had passed Leone heard word from Dorian. Or more like Dorian had stopped by and begged her to attend a social event with her as his guest. He had been bored to death with the usual faces and missed her companionship. Also – he had heard some interesting things about the former slave turned Magister Deidre. Thus, following his begging and persuasion Leone asked if Barnaby would watch Wolf's Den for an evening while she attended the ball.
Leone wouldn't admit it, but she had missed some of the social gatherings and exciting events that being Inquisitor had allowed her to attend. The heady blend of power, intrigue, danger and sex. Her mind blanked, refusing to recall whom had spoke such words...but his face still showed brilliantly in her mind.
"What is this event again?" she had thought to ask just the evening of as Dorian held her arm as they entered a fabulously wealthy estate. Gardens full of exotic flowers lined the ornate steps to the dusky building. Guards dressed in solemn, dark colors which hid their features also decorated the lawns and walkways leading to the estate. Coming up the stairs she held her gown in her hand as she stared into the main hall visible from outside. The estate was so fine it held a giant fountain inside with a fabulous jewel casting rainbow lights upon the interior.
"It is a party being held by one of my associates, a fellow Altus named Frederic Kahnen. He's been an ardent admirer of my skills and a rather patient gentleman. However he is a bit traditional so while he may taste flavors such as those I enjoy he maintains the proper image of an Altus unlike myself. Fallen whore that I am," Dorian informed Leone as he adjusted the belt on his fine clothing.
"Are you sure I'll be welcome?" Leone checked again. She had been surprised the Pavus family had barely batted an eye when she came in with Dorian who asked if she might borrow a gown for the evening.
"It's a party, darling. Nothing official or meant to improve standing. A good time for those in power to show off their wealth, status and drink every bit of liquor in sight. Are you ready?" he asked with a devilish smirk as they were greeted by guards.
"May I see your invitation, sir?" asked a tall man with the whites of his eyes surrounded by dark kohl that drew their sight. His eyes were captivating and Dorian whistled slightly. The guard frowned by took the scroll Dorian presented him with. He nodded stiffly and handed it back to him. Dorian was tempted to push his luck when a voice called out.
"Dorian!" called out a high voice excitedly and nearby Leone saw a woman come closer.
He sighed as Leone noticed the bejeweled pointed ears. The elf was gorgeous and she wore jewels on her entire body that glistened as she drew near. Her hair was pulled back into a high ponytail and glimmered down like a waterfall. Black, slender links decorated her sharp ears and linked to dangling metallic roses that hung from her ears. A tight choker of similar design spread out on her frail chest and stopped just before the low cut of her top which pressed her cleavage high in the detailed, plum dress. Full lips were painted a dark plum color as well. Leone felt overwhelmed by the woman's beauty.
"My, my. You have beautiful eyes," the elf said excited as she drew near to Leone. "Will you introduce me, Dorian?" she asked as a small group of admirers followed in her trail. One of those men included the man Frederic Kahnen himself.
"Good evening, Deidre. Ah! And my friend, Frederic I told you about," Dorian said, trying to brush off the pushy elf some but she continued forward to admire Leone. Frederic himself stopped for a minute awaiting introduction as he stared at this stranger, "This is my dear friend Leone from my time in Fereldan. She's been curious about the fashion and culture here."
The small group took in the vision of the statuesque elf. They weren't sure what it was, she was not a beauty like Deidre but this slender woman had an air of authority and power. Her gaze was fierce and her lunar colored hair flew in tendrils like clouds. Deidre was certainly the obvious gem of the room in her adorned gown and accessories, but the simple, tight black gown that encased the stranger held them enraptured.
"Pleasure to meet all of you, friends of Dorian," Leone said graciously, bowing before them.
"The pleasure is ours," Frederic said quickly with Deidre at his side.
"I'm always thrilled to see another elf in our presence," Deidre exclaimed, clasping her palms together as she drew close again. "I would be thrilled to chat with you about your experiences in Fereldan."
"Ah – not much to discuss," Leone remarked, trying not to place her hand on her hip and recall any advice she had ever received from Vivienne. At least she remembered to bow although right now all she could think was how impressed Vivienne would be by this Deidre. "It's a rather simple place with a fondness for Mabari. I even consider taking one in myself."
"I've heard of the Fereldan's obsession with dogs," Deidre remarked as Dorian and Frederic discussed some Magisterium politics. Despite appearance, the blonde elf kept her heavily weighed ears tuned into that conversation as well while she observed the delicate appearing woman before her. "I do adore having another elf – particularly a woman here," the magister said and she dipped her voice low, "...they treat us with social grace as if we're exotic creatures. It's...annoying. A flicker of eye lashes and a tight waist and half the men flock our way." Then the woman stepped back from her and flicked her wrist. "Come, let's grab a drink."
Leone was intrigued by this powerful woman, an elf that had come from slavery and risen above her oppressors to be one of them. A niggling edge in her mind felt wary but she kept sight of Dorian as she sat with this woman.
"Are you a mage like us?" she asked as she waved for an attendant. He was garbed in simple, but delicate clothing to lay flutes of champagne before them.
"No, I've trained as a Champion," Leone remarked as she sipped and watched as the band set up with an enchanting singer coming to the forefront.
"Really? That's interesting. You look so..." she struggled to find a word for a moment.
"Frail and delicate?" Leone suggested and chuckled. "I get that often, mostly before I stand in the way of someone who gets an unwelcome surprise."
Deidre looked at her with broad smile and then laughed wholeheartedly which drew a few stares. Leone saw Dorian try to break away from Frederic, but the man grabbed his forearm suddenly. She was tempted to stand but stopped as Deidre laid a soft palm on her hand.
"Don't mind them...just a simple disagreement. Dorian is charming and will disarm Frederic in a moment," Deidre informed her. "I get that too sometimes," she added which confused Leone.
"You argue with others?"
"No," she laughed behind her manicured hand, "They think I'm frail and delicate." A twinge nibbled at Leone's intuition again, something about this woman seemed...off and dangerous. "I must say dear, while I captivate the attendees on average you seem to have distracted a few yourself this evening."
"I just came here to see how the Imperium parties," Leone said with a wiggle of her brows and a gentle smile.
"You're a free spirit, then. Traveling the world with no ties to your home," Deidre stated, "Nothing that keeps you under pressure. Sounds delightful. I wonder though…."
"Yes?"
"Have you ever imagined being able to cast magic? What you could do?" she pondered aloud, fingers resting on the stem of the glass.
"What do you mean?" Leone asked as she tried to keep herself calm. She felt herself fully alert.
"It's just…," Deidre said and moved towards Leone, resting her arm on the table they sat at with her hand still on the flute Leone drank from. To outsiders it might seem like a flirtation but Deidre's voice flitted up to her ears, "...have you heard of Fen'Harel?"
It would be foolish to lie to her Leone knew, she was a smart woman. Sharp and on point. Any elf – goodness – any person within the continent had heard of the rumored god returning to lift his people back to their former glory taken from them by the humans.
"Yes. Do you know him?" Leone asked, leaning in herself. It was already a hook, she was curious what this Magister might know.
"Me? Oh, no! I wish!" she squealed with laughter as if Leone had told a hilarious joke. She pulled back and softly so only Leone could hear she told her, "He says he'll return magic to all of us. We'll all be powerful again." A gleam had lit up the azure eyes framed by wisps of golden blonde hair as the woman looked behind Leone. "I have something..." she trailed off as a voice boomed behind Leone.
"Miss me, darling?" Dorian asked and Leone saw him from the corner of her eye.
"Always," Leone turned to face him, excited to be free of the conversation with Deidre. This Magister alarmed her. It was odd seeing as how she supported So – well, Fen'Harel, but it felt wrong to Leone.
"If you'll excuse us, I would like a dance with my dear guest," Dorian teased Deidre.
"Of course, of course. I'll go placate Frederic, I see his feathers have been smoothed a bit, but he could use some more consolation," the Magister mentioned as she stood to leave them. Her body swayed slightly as she left them. Dorian pulled Leone close to his body and she sensed his tense form. They moved to the dance floor and he placed his hands on her hips.
She knew they'd talk after this but for the moment he smiled.
"Shall we show them Beasty?" he challenged her and arched his back ever so slightly into proper form.
"Why, of course," she responded and tilted her head downward to meet his gentle eyes.
The rest of their night was spent this way, him holding her in his arms and together they danced in intricate designs and circles as if their forlorn lovers might feel the passion within that they created despite the distance. Together they moved without stopping and sweat soaked their bodies as the on-lookers cheered. Frederic and Deidre had taken place beside the duo to complement the pair and dance feverishly as well although Deidre did stop enough so she did not sweat or ruin her gown.
For the first time in weeks Leone forgot her fears and goals, taking another moment for herself to enjoy the fast beat of her heart within the company of a dear friend. Hours later and flutes of champagne gone Leone asked Dorian to escort her home. After recently recovering from a hangover she didn't intend to finish another night in such a fashion. On their way out she was stopped by Deidre once more. To be honest she hoped she only imagined her brow raising in an agitated fashion when the woman stopped her.
"I hope we meet again, Leone. I'd love to discuss our heritage another time alone," she remarked as Dorian kept pulling on Leone's arm.
"Yes, I'm sure we shall. I'm eager to learn as well," Leone said trying to hurriedly think of something witty and kind so she could leave without drawing out this discussion. Deidre released her hand and waved as the two guests stumbled down the staircase.
"Ah, Dorian. You do know how to show a girl a good time," Leone teased her companion.
"Now, now, dear. Don't go falling in love with me. You won't be able to satisfy me," he stated sincerely with a wagging finger. She could only guffaw at his laughter and watched as his eyes lingered on the guard they encountered on their way in.
"Ay! Ay! Don't forget the Bull!" she warned him as they made their way to the street.
"I'm just admiring the regal state of their guards," Dorian saucily accosted her.
"Yep, just like I admire Iron Bull's muscular arms for their power," her retort came almost TOO quick and swift so that Dorian stared at her in mock horror.
"Well, I'll be! I'll have you know I've admired Solas in his time," Dorian challenged, "Those pants of his left little to the imagination my dear."
"You should have seen his imagination then," Leone upped the ante. Together they cackled as they combined forces to manage a straight line to the Pavus mansion. After some time both lonely members leaned on each other for emotional comfort and physical support getting to the home safe. A dense fog had worked its way in from the port and settled through the neighborhood as the Pavus residence came into view. Just outside the tall gates Dorian paused.
"I...I need to warn you Leone."
"Huh?" she questioned him, feeling her chest tighten at his tone. It was foreboding and haunted.
"That woman you spoke with...there are rumors she had similar interests to that Magister Renault. He accused her of trying to add to her collection when news had slipped about his recent condition with depression and episodes. Apparently they had worked closely together."
Leone stared at him. "When were you going to tell me about her?"
"I...I had considered tell you this new information earlier and to have your associate confirm what they could. That she may have another...piece per chance," he explained and turned to Leone, grasping her hands in his with a pleading tone, "But I wanted you to meet her first."
"Why?"
"Didn't you sense it yourself? I've followed you to what might have been my end...I can't imagine you wouldn't be able to sense it," he replied and looked into her eyes. Fear settled deep in his chocolate orbs, a fear she hadn't seen in some time.
"What do you fear so?" she asked, not relenting an answer for now but returning his gentle hold.
"Please stay away from her. I don't think it's worth the risk."
"We've fought demons and dragons and...so much more," Leone soothed him with her thumb running over his hands.
"She's...too fascinated. Obsessed with Fen'Harel and I've heard word of strange experiments…," Dorian mentioned and suddenly clammed up.
"Experiments?" Leone asked, pulling him into nearby shrubbery. The guards at the Pavus mansion had already seen the master and guest so took little notice of the questionable action.
"She's obsessed with elves having magic and power...she's tried different actions. Please, just…," Dorian again began to warn her but Leone stopped him with a finger.
"There's more at risk than you or I, Dorian," she hesitated to remind him. "Have faith."
His beautiful face broke into a frown but slowly he replaced with a snarky smile. Then he took her hand in his and the serious discussion was dismissed. He said little else but jovial suggestions and kind comments as they retired for the evening.
Despite her reminder Leone felt as Dorian did. Something was off about the woman, but if the rumors were to be true...they had not had a lead on more Elvhen artifacts or foci in some time...it might be their next chance. She would wait a bit longer, but Fen'Harel was becoming more relevant in powerful as the days passed. Leone could not hold out and wait for more information in this region. If Deidre was her next target she would have to act as soon as possible before the woman asked her anymore questions to read her.
