Part 9

John and the others left the horses with the horse master and then went their different ways. John had just said goodbye to Casper when he heard the commotion coming from the Chantry. He narrowed his eyes and headed in that direction. When he got up the stairs he noticed a huge crowd mostly consisting of Templars and mages. They were obviously arguing about something and John slowly approached them.

"Your kind killed the Most Holy!" a Templar shouted.

"Lies", shouted a mage in return. "Your kind let her die!"

"Shut your mouth, mage!" The Templar gripped his sword, about to pull it on the mage and John felt rage well up inside him like a flaming volcano. He prepared himself to defend the mages at all cost, but did not have to do so because Casey stormed out of the Chantry and moved between the mage and the Templar. She pushed the pair apart just as the mage gripped for his own staff.

"Enough!" Casey shouted.

"Knight-Captain!" the Templar objected.

"That is not my title", Casey replied while turning to the mages, as if to assure them. "We are not templars any longer." Now she turned to the Templars. "We are all part of the Inquisition!" She pointed angrily at the Templar starting the fight and then turned a warning glare at the mage who had his staff in his hand now. Both groups withdrew. John then noticed how a rather smug-looking Bottomsley approached the little group.

"And what does that mean, exactly?" the man asked.

"Back already, Chancellor?" Casey asked. "Haven't you done enough?"

"I'm curious, Commander, as to how your Inquisition and it's 'Herald' will restore order as you've promised." While he spoke Bottomsley "addressed" the growing crowd around them. Casey gave him a tired look.

"Of course you are", she stated dryly. She then turned to the crowd. "Back to your duties, all of you." Her gaze was firm and the crowd started to disperse. John noticed a few mages cast sour looks at the Templars and the other way around. But he also saw something that gave him paus. A female Templar recruit and a male recruit walked over to a male mage and they headed off together, chatting happily to one another. John looked up to make sure the sky was not falling. Noticing it was not, only having a huge hole in it, he moved over to Casey and Bottomsley.

"Mages and templars were already at war", he overheard Casey say when he approached. "Now they're blaming each other for the Divine's death."

"Which is why we require a proper authority to guide them back to order", Bottomsley spat.

"Who, you? Random clerics who weren't important enough to be at the Conclave?"

"The rebel Inquisition and it's so-called 'Herald of Andraste'? I think not."

John decided to make his presence known.

"If the 'proper' authority hadn't completely failed, the conclave wouldn't have been needed", he spat and Casey and Bottomsley turned to him. Casey smirked a little behind Bottomsley's back.

"So you suggest I blame the Chantry and exalt a murderer?" Bottomsley demanded. "What of Justice?"

"That won't help restore order in the here and now", Casey replied.

"Order will never be restored so long as this rebellion is allowed to fester!"

"So far, you're the only one who's insisted we can't work together", John countered, not counting himself. Bottomsley needed not know that though.

"We might, if your Inquisition would recognize the Chantry's authority."

"There is no authority until another Divine is chosen", Casey told him dryly.

"In due time. Andraste will be our guide, not some dazed wanderer on a mountainside."

"I don't believe I'm Andraste's Herald any more than you do, Chancellor", John growled.

"That laudable humility won't stop the Inquisition from using the misconceptions when it suits them."

"The Inquisition claims only that we must close the Breach or perish", Casey defended their cause.

"You say that now commander. We shall see if the sentiment remains true."

"I don't know, the Inquisition seems about as functional as any young family", John said with a smirk and this time Casey snorted and Bottomsley first glared at her and then John.

"How many families are on the verge of splitting into open warfare with themselves?" he spat. John cocked an eyebrow. Oh he could think of quite a few actually. So could Casey apparently because she once again countered the Chancellor.

"Yes, because that would never happen to the Chantry", she deadpanned.

"Centuries of tradition guide us", Bottomsley growled. "We're not the upstart, eager to turn over every apple cart."

"Remind me why you're allowing the Chancellor to stay", John deadpanned and turned to Casey who chuckled softly.

"Clearly your templar knows where to draw the line", Bottomsley grumbled.

"He's toothless", Casey told while ignoring Bottomsley. "There's no point turning him into a martyr simply because he runs at the mouth. The Chancellor's a good indicator of what to expect in Val Royeaux, however." John nodded and just then a group of mages walked by.

"How widespread is the violence between mages and templars?" John asked as he followed them with his gaze.

"Impossible to say", Casey replied.

"Your whole organization floating the Chantry's authority will not help matters", Bottomsley spat.

"With the Conclave destroyed, I imagine the war between mages and templars has renewed. With interest." John nodded in agreement. He had to smirk at the Chancellor's face getting redder and redder because Casey kept ignoring him.

"The mages and templars are fighting even though we don't know what really happened at the Temple of Sacred Ashes?" John asked.

"Exactly why this should all be left to a new Divine", Bottomsley cut in. "If you are innocent, the Chantry will establish it as so."

"Or will be happy to use someone as a scapegoat", Casey growled.

"You think nobody cares about the truth? We all grieve Justinia's loss."

"But you won't grieve if the Herald of Andraste is conveniently swept under a carpet."

"I'll make sure they see reason in Val Royeaux", John soothed Casey.

"I pray you're right."

"Don't let anyone riot while we're gone."

"The walls will be standing when you return. I hope."

"Well, let's hope we find a solution, and not a cathedral full of chancellors."

"The stuff of nightmares." John actually laughed at Casey's respond. Even more so when the Chancellor right there started objecting wildly. Casey winked at John and nodded for him to head into the Chantry. With a smile John hurried inside. He liked Casey, she was fun and sharp. She seemed to be a good sort.

Entering the Chantry John was a little surprised to find his grandmother, Mother Giselle, already there and talking to some of the villagers of Haven. When she saw John she smiled and nodded to him. John nodded back and headed past her to enter the war room, as he had dubbed it. Inside he saw Kayo and Tin-Tin talking to each other in hushed whispers. When they saw him they moved apart and smiled. John just nodded to them. They were soon joined by Scott and Casey. John and Scott reported on their activities in the Hinterlands and of their mission. John told them about Mother Giselle's idea to have him talk to the clerics himself. Scott quickly dismissed it along with Casey. Then Casey told them of what had happened at the gates of the Chantry and when she mentioned that Bottomsley kept talking about taking John to Val Royeaux Tin-Tin looked like she had gotten an idea.

"Having the Herald address the clerics is not a terrible idea", she said.

"You can't be serious", Casey exclaimed, looking quite angry.

"Mother Giselle isn't wrong: at the moment, the Chantry's only strength is that they are united in opinion."

"And we should ignore the danger to the herald?" Kayo asked just as outraged as Casey.

"Let's ask him", Tin-Tin said and turned to John.

"You want me to walk into a pit of vipers, and you ask me that?" John growled.

"They are not vipers just because they like to hiss."

"Do not underestimate the power of their words, Kayo told her sister. "An angry mob will do you in just as quickly as a blade."

"I'm more concerned this won't actually solve any problems", John told the two of them flatly.

"I agree", Casey said. "It just lends credence to the idea that we should care what the Chantry says."

"I will go with him", Scott sad stepping forward. "Mother Giselle said she could provide us names? Use them."

"But why?" Kayo asked while eyeing Scott almost suspiciously. "This is nothing but a-"

"What choice do we have, Kayo? Right now we can't approach anyone for help with the Breach. Use what influence we have to call the clerics together. Once they are ready, we will see this through." Scott turned on his heel and along with Casey left the room. Kayo left as well to see what she could do with her spies. Tin-Tin smiled at John but then left him alone to think. He looked at the map. Casey was right, this could end in proving Bottomsley right… Kayo was also right… this could end in his death. Scott was a formidable warrior, but not even him could stand against all the guards in the city. One mistake and John was doomed. Maybe he should take the chance and run for it… He looked up when he heard angry voices… or rather an angry voice just outside the door. He walked up to it and followed the sound to a door to the side. Inside he could hear a man's voice.

"The Inquisition cannot remain, Ambassador", the man said. "If you can't prove it was founded on Justinia's orders."

"This is an inopportune time, Marquis", Tin-Tin replied. "More of the faithful flock here each day."

John opened the door and stepped inside, before someone caught him eavesdropping. Tin-Tin smiled brightly when she saw him.

"But allow me to introduce you to the brave soul who risked his life to slow the magic of the Breach", she hurriedly said and motioned for John. "Ser, this is the Marquis DuRellion, one of the Divine Justinia's greatest supporters."

"And the rightful owner of Haven", DuRellion replied. "House DuRellion lent Justinia these lands for a pilgrimage. This 'Inquisition' is not a beneficiary of this arrangement."

"This is the first I've heard of Haven having an owner outside the Chantry", John replied but shook the man's offered hand.

"My wife, Lady Machen of Denerim, has claim to Haven by ancient treaty with the monarchs of Ferelden. We were honored to lend its use to Divine Justinia. She is… she was a woman of supreme merit. I will not let an upstart order remain on her holy grounds."

"People have been injured. You can't just turn them out onto the snow."

"And who benefits if they stay?"

"Divine Justinia, Marquis", Tin-Tin cut in. "The Inquisition – not the Chantry – is sheltering the pilgrims who mourn her."

"Why is the Chantry ignoring the faithful?"

"Because it remains in shock."

"Demons are pouring from the sky, and you're worried about land claims?" John interjected.

"Haven is the DuRellions' rightful property!"

"Has Empress Celene officially acknowledged your possession of Haven?" Tin-Tin questioned.

"The empress… has not yet had the opportunity to do so."

"And the Inquisition was begun by the Left and Right Hands of the Divine", John added.

"I've seen no written records from Sister Tanusha or Seeker Tracy that Justinia approved the Inquisition", the Marquis countered.

"If we won't take him at his word, I'm afraid Seeker Tracy must challenge the Marquis to a duel", Tin-Tin said while turning to John. John saw her little smirk, the marquis did not.

"What?" he asked fearfully. John could understand that. He had witnessed Scott doing battle. He looked the Marquis up and down and nodded. Scott would slaughter him.

"It is a matter of honor among the Nevarrans", Tin-Tin continued. "Shall I arrange the bout for tonight?"

"No!" he squeaked and then cleared his throat. "No. Perhaps my reaction to the Inquisition's presence was somewhat hasty."

"We face a dark time, Your Grace", Tin-Tin soothed. "Divine Justinia would not want her passing to divide us. She would, in fact, trust us to forge new alliances to the benefit of all, no matter how strange they might seem."

"I'll think on it, Lady Kyrano. The Inquisition might stay in the meanwhile." With those words he fled the room and John snorted a laugh and noticed Tin-Tin smile in satisfaction. She sat down at her desk. John walked up to her.

"Do the DuRellions actually have a claim on this place?" he asked.

"His Grace's position is not so strong as he presents it", Tin-Tin informed him. "Despite their Ferelden relations, the DuRellions are Orlesian. If the marquis wishes to claim Haven, Empress Celene must negotiate with Ferelden on his behalf. Her current concerns are a bit larger than minor property disputes."

"I apologize for the intrusion. I didn't realize you were meeting with the marquis."

"You did little harm. In truth, the debate was most beneficial as practice for those to come."

"You expect more people in Haven?"

"Undoubtedly. And each visitor will spread the story of the Inquisition after they depart. An ambassador should ensure the tale is as complimentary as possible."

"I'm so pleased the marquis isn't tossing us out into the cold."

"His Grace is one of the first of many dignitaries we must contend with."

"Let's hope 'His Arrogance' doesn't return." John looked at the door and heard Tin-Tin giggle.

"Even should he leave, the marquis will share his thoughts on us upon his return to Val Royeaux. Every guest we receive – and we will receive them – will spread the Inquisition's story. As I said before, an ambassador should ensure the tale is as complimentary as possible."

John sat down on the sofa in the room and looked at her. Tin-Tin was a very pretty young woman, a couple of years his junior. She had a softer face than Kayo, the whole air around her was softer. She seemed sharp though, like a hidden blade waiting to strike. Kayo was more… life threatening. You could get scared just being in her presence and she could see straight through you. Tin-Tin gave of a gentler air than her sister. John didn't doubt she could be just as deadly but whereas Kayo used secrets and poisons Tin-Tin could kill you with her words. She looked up when she noticed him looking at her. She gave him a questioning look.

"May I ask what brought you to work for the Inquisition?" John asked.

"Tani… Sister Tanusha approached me. As you are aware we are sisters, she is the oldest, the wittiest and the most dangerous. I am the smarter one. For better or worse, being the Inquisition's diplomat has become as interesting as she promised."

"What sort of dealings have you had with nobility?"

"For some years, I was the royally appointed court ambassador from Antiva to Orlais. The nobility of Thedas is a rather singular sphere. Those I'm not acquainted with, I know through reputation."

"The Inquisition is lucky to have you as an advocate, Lady Kyrano."

"Thank you. Let us hope so. Thedas's politics have become… agitated as of late. I hope to guide us down smoother paths."

"Well, I'm glad for your help. I have a feeling the Inquisition's going to need it." He smirked. "Your sister's kind of help might be fine in some cases. But nothing beats a good diplomat."

"I do believe you are correct", she giggled in reply.

"Just one question my Lady", John said as he got up. "If every noble wandering by is as stubborn as the marquis, what good is it talking to them?"

"Every kingdom is subject to its lords. The Inquisition will require their goodwill to survive."

"Ah."

"But please excuse me. I've much work to do before the day is done."

John nodded and turned on his heel and headed out. Tin-Tin looked up from the papers on her desk. This Herald was turning out to be quite interesting, just as interesting as Kayo had informed her. It was something about him though. He seemed so angry and rough on the outside, like a frightened animal about to pounce. A snake ready to strike as soon as a foot came near it, but when she had looked into his eyes… she saw a gentleness behind those blue orbs. A gentle soul and a curious nature. John the Free Mage wanted to learn things, wanted to know things… well then who was she to stand in his way? She was looking forward getting to know him… that he was very handsome was a bonus she did not mind.

John walked out of the Chantry and noticed Kayo by the tents where the scouts had their base. He slowly approached her. She was kneeling on the ground on one knee, having her hands clasped in front of her. She was obviously praying.

"'Blessed are the peacekeepers, the champions of the just. Blessed are the righteous, the lights in the shadow. In their blood the Maker's will is written.'" She spoke softly, without looking up at John. "Is that what you want from us? Blood? To die so that your will is done? Is death your only blessing?" She looked up and then noticed John. She narrowed her eyes at him. "You speak for Andraste, no? What does the Maker's prophet have to say about all of this? What's His game?"

"How is this a game?" John asked her while crossing his arms.

"Do you see the sky? What about the temple ruins? The bones lying in the dust? Even if you didn't support the Divine's peace you wouldn't call this right. Who could? So many innocent lives – the faithful murdered where the holiest of holies once stood. If the Maker willed this, what is it if not a game or a cruel joke?" She sounded very angry, but at the same time… sad.

"I speak for no one but myself, and I have no answers for you." John narrowed his eyes right back at her.

"Then we can only guess at what He wants. Do you even worship the Maker?"

"No", John scoffed.

"Lucky. He asks a lot."

"Awful things happen every day", John growled, thinking of all mages made tranquil against their will, mages cut down just by existing… cries of 'blood mage' when they were just false accusations. Kayo spoke of cruelty? She had no idea what she was talking about. "Get used to it."

"Get used to being a pawn, to be discarded when the Maker's done with you?"

"Why not that's what you are doing to me isn't it?" John challenged and she did look a little ashamed. "I'm a mage, people used to use m to do things for them, little party tricks, fight their enemies and then I was forced back into my prison cell. The Circle was a prison created by your Chantry. The Templars took my friend from me in that cursed tower. I got spat at, threatened, abused and mocked because of who I am. I lost friends to the Rite of Tranquility. My friends forced into Tranquility because Templars feared them. My friends got executed for blood magic or possession when there was no proof of it! People die every day around us… many by the hands of your Chantry… your Maker."

"The Chantry teaches that the Maker abandoned us", Kayo spat as she got up and walked over to him. "He demands repentance for our sins. He demands it all. Our lives. Our deaths. Justinia gave Him everything she had, and He let her die!" John saw the grief in her eyes and relaxed his tense shoulders.

"I'm sorry", he told her. "Her death has clearly hit you hard."

"Not just me. All of us. She was the Divine. She led the faithful. She was their heart! If the Maker doesn't intervene to save the best of His servants, what good is He? I used to believe I was chosen, just as some say you are. I thought I was fulfilling His purpose for me, working with the Divine, helping people. But now She's dead. It was all for nothing. Serving the Maker meant nothing."

"I'm not really the best person to talk to. Doesn't the Chantry have people for this?"

Kayo laughed. "So, I should let a priest comfort me? No, this is my burden. I regret that I even let you see me like this. It was a moment of weakness. It won't happen again. Come. To work then. We will speak later." John knew when he was not wanted and left her tent. She was a complicated person, that much he could tell. She was insightful and dangerous… but she was also hurting something awful. Her faith had been shaken to its core by Justinia's death. John did not blame her. He walked through the small village, some villagers greeted him with smiles and kind words. Others just waved. He walked past all of them and out of the gates. He could see Scott by the training camp, going at the dummies again. Then he noticed Casey amongst the soldiers as well. His curiosity raised its head again and he headed for her. Out of the three leaders of this Inquisition, four if you counted Scott, she was the one he was most intrigued by. She seemed to have a good head on her shoulders, not too tightly bound by all the Chantry garbage. Maybe it would be worth the effort to get to know her? At least to get someone on his side. He was pretty sure Kayo resented him, that Scott wished he was somebody else and that Tin-Tin was afraid of him. Only Casey seemed to be neutral in her views of him.

As John approached he noticed a soldier walking next to Casey with a clipboard and papers on them. He appeared to be writing down whatever Casey was saying. Casey suddenly pointed at on of the training recruits.

"You there!" she called. "There's a shield in your hand. Block with it. If this man were your enemy, you'd be dead." She then turned to the man next to her. "Lieutenant, don't hold back. The recruits must prepare for a real fight, not a practice one."

"Yes, Commander", the lieutenant replied, saluted her and hurried off. That's when Casey noticed John and she turned to him.

"We've received a number of recruits", she said. "Locals from Haven and some pilgrims. None made quite the entrance you did."

"At least I got everyone's attention", John replied dryly.

"That you did."

"And that wasn't my idea."

"I'd be concerned if it was." They started walking around the training camp while they talked. "I was recruited to the Inquisition in Kirkwall, myself. I was there during the mage uprising – I saw firsthand the devastation it caused." John noticed that a soldier trailed along behind them.

"Ser!" he said while handing Casey a report.

"Scott sought a solution. When he offered me a position, I left the Templars to join his cause. Now it seems we face something far worse." She glanced at the report showed to her.

"You left the Templars for this", John asked a little shocked. "You believe the Inquisition can work?"

"I do."

"The Conclave destroyed, a giant hole in the sky – things aren't looking good."

"Which is why we're needed."

John sighed and looked at his hand. "I must have this mark for a reason. It will work. I'm sure of it."

"Provided we can secure aid – but I'm confident we can." She signed the report and the soldier hurried off. "The Chantry lost control of both Templars and mages. Now they argue over a new Divine while the Breach remains. The Inquisition could act when the Chantry cannot. Our followers would be part of that. There's so much we can– Forgive me. I doubt you came here for a lecture."

"No, but if you have one prepared I'd love to hear it", John joked dryly and Casey laughed.

"Another time perhaps", she chuckled.

"You understand our situation commander. I appreciate your opinion."

"Look around. Our people are well-organized and committed. Despite what the clerics may think, we're in the best position to help. I know what happens when order is lost and action comes too late. There's still a lot of work ahead." As if on cue another soldier approached them.

"Commander!" he called. "Ser Rylen has a report on our supply lines."

"As I was saying." Casey told John dryly before following the soldier. John shrugged and headed for the stable. It was time to leave for Val Royeaux.

TBC