Hello Everyone! I'm so sorry for the long wait! There were some personal matters I had to deal with in my life, but now I'm as free as a bird! For now anyway...
Without further ado, here's the next chapter!
The cool morning air surrounds the Chantry building, where Arturia is currently within, packing away the books she had just finished reading, books that were granted by Josephine to further educate the knight of the Inquisition's history and their ideals if she is to help spread their influence properly.
Putting all the books back into her bag, the blonde then looks over the map she has on her lap. Marked all over with locations across the Hinterlands are areas under the banner of the Inquisition. Her sight then settles onto a small circle, where Leliana informed her the Grey Warden; Blackwall resigns momentarily.
She considers what route to take, planning to stop and ensure the defenses of the Inquisition camps she may pass through are well-fortified and strengthened. Her attention then moves towards the second map beside her; the Storm Coast, and it is there that she is to expect meeting with the Bull's Chargers. If this group's reputation truly precedes them, Arturia will have to decide what role will be best fitted for these warriors.
A grand yawn echoes in her head. It seems her holy sword is awake.
"Good morning, Excalibur," She is alone in this library, so she should be safe to speak openly if only quietly.
"Ah, and what task has the ever diligent King of mine decided to endure today?"
"I'm figuring which path we should take once we take our leave to see the Grey Warden Blackwall before heading for the destination of the Bull Charger's."
"Hmph. This character Blackwall sounds promising enough, with his silver reputation and all else we have heard of the Grey Wardens..."
Arturia nods along, the talk about this warrior is almost as esteeming as one of her own knights from the Roundtable. Admittedly, she's quite curious to meet him.
"And I have absolutely no faith in the Bull's Chargers."
Arturia quirks a thin, blonde brow, "Care to elaborate?"
"Surely you have heard the stories? They're barbaric! Uncultured! Utterly unfitting to uphold our glorious ideals!"
"You seemed accepting enough of our current allies. I don't mean them in a way which you have just described the Chargers to be, but they're certainly different from the Roundtable."
"Irrelevant. To an extent, they have been able to share the same sense of right as you have even if Cassandra is brash, Varric a vex, Solas looks foolish, and Sera IS a fool. These Chargers, however, are mercenaries! They would be willing to have the same views if you paid them enough, and do the same if our enemies offer a greater price. Herupmh!" He finishes his tirade with a sound of true upper-class disdain.
Hearing Excalibur's thoughts, if not somewhat a decent point, Arturia counters, "From what I have gathered, the Bull's Chargers are not like any mercenary band, they seem to have just about enough standards where they don't merely blindly follow every man who would bid for them even at the highest price. Regardless, although more help is appreciable, I will have to judge them upfront than rely on rumors and stories."
"If that is what you wish," Excalibur relents. "At the very least, I am at ease at our last encounter with Madame de Fer, last I hear she'd redecorate her entire estate before leading the journey towards Haven with the faction of Mages that haven't rebelled against the Circles. This site could use some severe touch-ups, we have no need of anything less adequate for ourselves after all."
Arturia can only roll her eyes at Excalibur's words and belief in what is priority. It is a real mystery where and how he has ever gained such an attitude.
"As a matter of fact, I've been meaning to offer a list of demands as well, nothing major, just about a thousand requests that should be doable for anyone to accomplish. First thing on the list is-"
"Good morning, Arturia. I'm surprised to find you here."
Arturia looks up, actually quite grateful of the interruption that saves her from Excalibur's shockingly long list of demands, and found Mother Giselle approaching her, "Mother Giselle? The feeling is quite mutual."
"Is there never a moment when I may speak with my king in private?" Excalibur says, his dissatisfaction at Giselle's unknowing interruption clear-cut. "Well, never mind such an peripheral appearance, as I was saying-"
Arturia decides to cut their communication right then and there, and asks the Chantry woman, "What brings you here?"
"I was hoping to ask you the same thing. I hope you would forgive my intrusion, it appears you've been working on something."
The knight shakes her head, "It's not a bother, I've just been going through travel plans. A few men, women, and myself will be leaving soon," she pauses with a thought. "I understand that my presence might still be troubling the people of that house, correct?"
"Perhaps, but not as deeply as before however. Your kindness towards Hevara was not ignored, but it is as I have said before: give them time, and they may see you in a better light. With what happened between her and the Templars, the people are beginning to see you as a genuine good soul," a sigh leaves the old woman. "It is a shame how far the Templars have fallen, once they were protectors, and now the end of their blade points to all but themselves."
Arturia slowly nods. Apparently her meeting with the Templars is still talked about; the way she inflicted towards their pride without fear of unjustified or retribution, it will be tough if she is to somehow meet with the Templars if such a chance arises, but she must understand their position, and do what she can along with the Mages. Pondering about the Templars, Arturia is reminded of her previous talk with Josie in one lesson they had together...
Flashback...
"-Centuries ago, the Templar Order and Seekers of Truth were once together under the same organization; they were the original Inquisition. It was until the Chantry involved itself that the Inquisition 900 years ago was disbanded and became the two groups you know today. Based on an agreement the previous Inquisition signed with the Chantry known as the Nevarran Accord in 1:20 Divine, the Chantry was responsible for creating the Circle of Magi, and relied on the newly formed Templars to preside over the Mages. The Nevarran Accord was kept until Lord Seeker Lambart's involvement years ago, and the Templars have since then separated themselves from the Chantry."
Arturia was actually quite surprised to hear this fact, "I see...it makes sense actually. There have been similarities I've noticed between our Inquisition and the Templar Order...the Templars were originally the Inquisition themselves. What's more, they too have wanted to be of their own group without the Chantry, and do what they must to save their home."
"You are not wrong, however, as far as I can tell, it is within different reasons for our group and the Templars to sever all connections from the Chantry," Josephine lectures. "Our Inquisition wishes not only to follow Divine Justinia's will, but to help the land restore order and put an end to the disaster of war and chaos, and settle the dispute between the Templars and Mages, something which the Chantry has shared, but would rather take their time instead of immediate actions. The Templars, on the other hand, were originally created to watch over the Circles, in addition to being the jailers and - if need be - executors of the mages, who themselves ran these facilities. Of course, you can imagine how being in the position of where a group such as them must guard something they were trained to kill would be rather...unfitting for some of its members, one of them being Lord Seeker Lambert."
The diplomat explained, "Once he came into power, he ensured to break the Order away from the Chantry, and to turn away from all but one of original Templars' main purpose, and that is to kill Mages. His actions has only further aggravated the tensions between the Mages and the Templars, which may as well be one of the main point that instigated the war."
Arturia frowned, "So they favor a more tyrannical, nearly genocidal approach in order to sustain the threat of Mages, whom they believe to be the biggest threat known to man."
"Ironic, isn't it?" Not a hint of amusement in Josephine's empty smile, "We would do whatever it takes to destroy what we perceived to be the most evil thing to exist, not knowing we have become the very thing we were sworn to defeat - who then, will protect us from our own protectors?"
"Perhaps that can be something the Inquisition may offer to help?" Arturia suggested.
Josephine let out a small sigh, "If we have enough man-power and resources, but even then, it is a very...complicated matter. We can only bring our attention to every problem one at a time. Now then, let us resume our history lesson..."
Flashback ends...
"...Mother Giselle, what can you tell me about the Chantry?"
Her abrupt question catches the calm old woman off-guard. Arturia realizes this herself and lowers her head ruefully, "Forgive me, that was too direct. I'm...not quite aware of things here as I should be, and there is much I have yet to understand - including the Chantry itself. If you would be willing, might I learn more of its history?"
Giselle considers her question and smiles, equally pleased and amused to see this youth, who unveils such a serious, strong disposition, be so honest and humble, "Of course, I would be happy to tell it. There is much for you to learn of it."
With a pace that belies her elder age, she joins Arturia on the bench, sitting beside the knight, and once she sees Arturia's attention completely focused on her, Giselle begins.
"Firstly, an introduction to our faith: the Chantry believes the Maker has created us, and that mankind's sinful nature caused him to turn away. With Andraste's blessing, the Maker will forgive mankind once the chant of light is sung from all corners of the worlds."
"What is the Chantry's opinion on magic?" Though Arturia recalls Mother Giselle's patience with magic's existence upon their first meeting when old woman was tending to the wounded, the knight wonders what the other Chantry men and women thoughts are to magic.
"As Andraste has put it simply: "Magic must serve man, not rule over him." " The Revered Mother recites with great esteem, those words being etched in the very depths of her heart, "Although this is what we believe it should be, it is not known or specified how we can get there. Terrible methods were done that twisted this belief, nothing short of slavery...and even torment. So many good men brought to ruin, the spirit of their goals undone and leaving them changed, never the same as they were before," she pauses for a breath and to collect herself of this shameful fact.
So the Chantry believes magic is to serve mankind, and yet, with what Giselle has just explained, it's really the Mages themselves being put into such positions. Tools is what these magi are to others - dangerous ones at that if the Chantry really were responsible for placing every mage in Thedas into the Circle - imprisoning them essentially. Arturia very much respects and approves of the IDEA of the Circle, but its process and treatment to the Mages is in deep need of re-evaluation inside and out.
"What about you? What are your views in magic?"
"I do agree in the purpose of magic to exist for mankind's benefits, and that we must not let power take control of us. However, it must be put into a proper historical context." Giselle explains, "Andraste led a rebellion against the Tevinter Imperium, whose magisters controlled most of the world at the time. Even then, Andraste never called for all mages to be put to death as she believed in peaceful co-existence. It was one of the many things I admired, and while times such as these would cloud the possibility of such a future, I truly believe that there is a road where all of us may walk upon, and reach the point where we may all live in peace."
Arturia smiles at Giselle's sincerity, "It is a future I'm sure many share, and an inspiring goal," she can most certainly relate to Giselle's mindset; wanting only peace for her people, that much is understood between the knight and the cleric, "Was the Chantry ever as tolerant of magic as you are?"
Giselle shakes her head sadly.
"Not particularly so. The Chantry is an imperfect vessel, pulled every direction by those who would steer its course. Yet the Templars rebelled because Divine Justinia was not restrictive enough." Giselle cannot help but sigh mournfully at the friction each side of this hazardous situation insists on starting with each other, turning to Arturia crestfallen, "Perhaps the Inquisition will find a better way. If you could seal the Breach, we shall see whether this Inquisition is truer than the Chantry, or its own namesake."
Seeing the dejectedness clearly from the older woman, the King of Knights decides to switch topics about the religion of the Maker, "I've noticed that the Chantry mainly consist human women as priestess. Why is that?" While Arturia has a few faint ideas that stands to reason - however irrational they may be - why men appear to not have a similar treatment in diverse roles as the women do, to better grasp whatever Giselle's answer will further help Arturia to understand the culture of this world.
"The official doctrine states that the elven and dwarves have turned further from the Maker than humanity, and for human men, the Chant holds that they are more vulnerable to anger or passion." Giselle then shrugs nonchalantly, "But in truth, it is simply political; added after Andraste's death, like too many of our beliefs."
"I can understand that mindset. Then it is true, that women in the Chantry are not permitted to roles beyond the priesthood?"
Giselle nods in confirmation, "Indeed, but even though these restrictions are not ideal, this is not the time to start a revolution when so many other battles are happening at once, and I chose to use what power I had to help peasants forgotten by the nobles of Orlais. I believe there would be time to address their inequality under the Chantry once we have saved them from starving."
Arturia hums thoughtfully at this, "Such an opportunity may take decades to achieve. If you do not mind my inquiry, what will you do if the chance to bring forth such issues will never be brought up when it need be?"
"We can only hold to our patience." Giselle sighs once more, "Right now, easing the suffering of others must come first, and this cannot be achievable by bringing in another fight in an already wounded world."
The eyes of the knight softens, "You're selflessness and consideration is commendable, Mother Giselle. It's no wonder how others see you under a marvelous light that gives others strength and hope."
"Your kind words are appreciated, my lady. But I only do what I can," The cleric humbly responds.
A frown forms when Arturia recalls something, "I've read that the Chantry has made severe actions to stop the Mage Rebellion; the Exalted March is what it was called, correct?"
"Don't believe it," Giselle answers sharply, drawing a surprised look from the blonde, "It was ignorant gossip is all it was. An Exalted March only succeeds when it carries the will of the people. Even then, it cannot be undertaken lightly as people are too easily frightened. We cannot destroy everything they fear, and when it is possible, the people will begin to fear us. An Exalted March is justified only against a true threat to this whole world. It is an offense to the Maker to use it as political bludgeon, or a means of spreading the Chantry of Light."
Her lessons with Josephine helping her, Arturia points out, "But it was done against the elves."
"That is a hotly debated matter in some circles of the Chantry. The elves have conquered Montsimmard and threatened Val Royeaux itself. They were not helpless victims. But then again, Orlais was the only nation to provide troops. It was hardly an Exalted March of the faithful. The Maker wishes his word to be spread by example, not by war. We win no converts with blood, it is what Justinia had strongly believed, and it was what some members of the Chantry will follow."
"The Divine Justinia V certainly has proven herself to be quite the matriarch time and time again, as righteous as yourself my king," Excalibur comments suddenly, having finished his list of demands for renovation sometime ago and has been an avid listener of this talk for a good length of time, "And there are members of the Chantry who find the Holy Woman to be too good at heart; in addition to her connection and ability to influence the masses, she had been successful enough to invite the Mages and Templars, bringing them together...emphasis on attempt certainly, but one achieved nonetheless. Perhaps that sort of dedication and accomplishments is what has some frightened."
"Enough to cause someone to kill her." Arturia sees Excalibur's point, though to be done in such an explosive manner - literally so in this unfortunately successful case - it's a wonder if the Divine was to be assassinated so to ensure the war continues, and to leave a message of fear embedded within the souls of those who saw the Conclave's destruction.
Just WHO is this perilous foe that has decided to be hidden in the shadows at this time?
Fully grasping the newly obtained knowledge and freshly formed questions, Arturia nods and stands up, her bag secured over her shoulder, "Thank you, Mother Giselle. I believe I have come to understand the Chantry much better now. Despite its flaws, your organization have good intentions in mind."
"Even though the Chantry might appear strain towards you, they simply wish to help bring peace, and the return of the faith to the lost people in these terrible times." Giselle stands up as well, "I pray that the Maker will watch over you in your travels, lady Arturia."
Arturia bows her head, "Thank you Mother Giselle. I promise you, the Inquisition will help Thedas to its best ability. I will ensure it with all of my strength."
'However I may have left of it.'
Giselle smiles, "Your reassurances is always welcomed, and I'm sure, the people will forever be grateful of your efforts."
Together with the old woman, Arturia and Giselle leaves the building. It is time for the knight to prepare herself for the journey, and Giselle is willing to walk with her to bid her well before she leaves. They walk up to the gate, and find most of her group there, all having arrived at the precise time they all agreed to meet; Cassandra, Solas, and Varric.
"Forgive me for keeping you all waiting," Arturia greets, giving a slight bow of the head.
"Haven't been waiting for long," Varric responds, "Plus, we're still missing one more. You've seen our new spunky recruit?"
"You get any smaller and I won't be able to see you two!"
Walking up to them, Sera comes into view, "Took you long enough," she causally snarks to Arturia. "Was starting to wonder if you were coming or not. Well, now that we're all here, let's get going!"
Arturia nods before turning to Giselle, "A good day to you, Mother Giselle."
"And a safe travel to you Arturia; may the Maker guide you and your Inquisition under his protection," Giselle blesses.
The knight thanks her, looking off to a distance as she and her group leave through the gate, whispering a quiet prayer for all of them to herself, "To shine in those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace."
For that is what she promised to Giselle, the goal of the Inquisition, and what the rest of Thedas desperately needs.
The heavy swing of Cassandra's shield crushes another boulder that glows Red lyrium, the whole rock cracking into little pieces and signifying the success of destroying the ore as she did to the previous ones.
Arturia nods approvingly from her horse, checking off another location on the map of the Hinterlands, depicting the territories newly claimed by the Inquisition and multiples of X's on places where Red lyrium once laid, but are there no longer, she personally have made sure of that. And now, another one of these damning substance are eradicated, the very substance that had its role in past tragic events as well responsible for altering the minds and health of countless warriors.
"Nice work Seeker," Varric praises, and genuinely so. No mocking behind his compliment to this noble action suggested by their honorable knight in shining armor. "We keep this up, less people are going to go crazy from this stuff." He turns to Arturia, "I gotta say, you surprised me when you said you wanted to destroy any Red lyrium we find."
Arturia answers, "It was thanks to reading your book about past events in this particular substance, and with what happened at Kirkwall, these Red lyrium have proven themselves to be far more troubling than when I first took them to be back at the Temple of Sacred Ashes. I only regret not doing this as we were settling the issues that had spread across the Hinterlands."
"Well, better late than never, and better yet, you're actually doing something to help out," responded the dwarf. "Another good deed for the day, nice work Pancakes."
Arturia is just ushering her horse to move when what she heard makes her stop her animal this instant, "...What did you just called me?"
"Oh, nothing for you to worry about," Varric merely waves the question off and went forward with his horse.
A confused frown forms on Arturia's lips. Cassandra sees this and comes to her side on her own steed to provide the explanation, "It's a nickname he has given you, he does that with everyone."
A blink slowly comes from the knight, "Is that so? ...But why in the world Pancakes of all things?"
Cassandra admits her equal cluelessness, "His name-giving has either a hidden meaning behind them, or they're meant to be ironic." Cassandra pauses for a moment before adding, "It's Varric's way of becoming accustomed to you, but if it does become bothersome, I shall have him stop."
Arturia thinks for a moment before gently shaking her head, "No. I...It's strange, or rather...amusing really," the frown is replaced by an quirk of an faint smile, "I suppose there's no harm to it. It's just that I've never had such a peculiar naming before."
"Mainly professional with your family and acquaintances, I assume?"
Arturia nods in confirmation. They were only the formal titles, all gained through her reputations, actions, and status, even her closest companion knights referred to her as such despite having done otherwise with each other. There was nothing necessarily terrible about it, after all, it was respectable to say the King's name followed by his title, or else it would be considered an insult; a refusal to acknowledge her position and accomplishments. But to be referred to without formality and to instead be called as something so silly - if not somehow weirdly appropriate - like what Varric has called her, it is... different, and Arturia finds herself not minding it at all.
That being said, there is no need for the snide dwarf to know about the whole "Wart" business anytime soon.
Still, she understands that nicknames of pleasant meanings are a sign of people who have grown close as Cassandra has confirmed, so to hear Varric give her a nickname not meant to be formal, out of respect, or even fear, but a nickname just because he could as well as finding her to be decent company, it is nice to know that it is a sign of her evidently growing close with the others, meaning she might be doing this "personal connection" right.
And she sincerely hopes she is doing this correctly. If she wants to avoid her past mistakes, then it is up to her to venture what she had not done before, then perhaps herself, the Inquisition and the world will have the help they so desperately need, and that her part in it will leave a good and everlasting affect.
As Arturia ventures forth with her party along, she hears the familiar language she is able to decipher like she knew it her whole life, coming from Solas. And then there is the unmistakable sound of raspberry with a tongue sticking out, coming from their new recruit joining this adventure of theirs.
"Excuse me?" Solas returns, more than surprised and confused by the unexpectedly rude response to his Elven greeting.
"Excuse yourself," Sera ripostes right back, "Whatever you said, or whatever I did. Same difference to me."
'Interesting.' Observes Arturia. So Sera is unfamiliar with the Elven language, meaning that the other blonde was not raised among her own kind then? Still, she really could have thought a better way to respond to Solas' attempt to greet with a fellow elf.
"I'd hoped...well, our people can sometimes feel the rhythm of our language, despite lacking the vocabulary."
"Uh huh. Know what else is good? Words that means things, like these: words."
Solas mutters under his breath in his native language once again, and Sera simply responds with another blow of raspberry.
"Ha ha! Quite a unique individual we have ourselves, I think I'm going to like her!" Declares Excalibur. Of course, if it means for him to see Solas - someone which Excalibur has taken a disliking to, be flabbergasted by anyone, it's apparently something worth congratulating the source of the elf mage's annoyance. Arturia rolls her eyes before opening her mouth.
"Ar las ma tel'nea neal nen vena nual fra el shias, as'll ea i em'an in min shiral suleth," She speaks to Solas in her newly gained way to speak Elven, causing others to stop and turn to her in surprise.
Solas responds, thankfulness in his tone, "Ar'm ar'an gara i. Numeal, ra as's tel eolasal or ash gir era'mana ar elana verb or halani mah?"
Varric's brows raises at Arturia, "Hold on a hot second! You can speak Elven?"
"Apparently, the Mark has granted her unique abilities, even giving her the skills to understand and speak the language," Cassandra explains to the dwarf, as she has been told by Arturia. Even now, she still has trouble accepting it.
"Huh. Well now, our Herald just got a whole lot more interesting and mysterious," Varric pulls out his notebook and pen, predictively writing down a note for his upcoming story. Cassandra agrees with him, glancing back at the youthful knight.
Sera makes an disgusted sound at this new information, "Ugh! No! Not you too! Doesn't anyone know what words are?" She fully turns to Arturia, "Hey, short stuff! How long are you gonna keep speaking elfy with baldie over there?"
Varric covers his mouth to hide the sound of his chuckle as Excalibur boastfully - and more importantly obnoxiously - laughs in Arturia's head. Decidedly aggravated on both ends, the knight takes her own hand and puts it under her chin, a moment of faux-consideration before then answering, "I'm not quite sure. It depends actually: how long are you going keep up with the short jokes at my expense?"
Silence.
"That's what I thought."
Now Varric is laughing openly.
It is another long walk, their horses trotting along the grass as they continue their search should any Red lyrium remain. Arturia leads her group as they idly chat, overhearing Sera begin talking to Varric and their discussion centering around the dwarf's book. It seems Varric is doing well trying his best to explain his story while keeping Sera's attention that are at times there, and at times gone, and at times making comments that are more than just peculiar for the peculiar elf.
And then her complete attention is taken, but not for Varric, "I think we're about to have some fun now."
Arturia looks to where Sera refers to, and spots multiples of men in armor and swords heading their way, not looking particularly very friendly. She activates her invisible sword at the sight of them, "Enemies!"
With all having their weapons ready, Arturia is the first to hop off from the back of her horse and charges for the hostile Templars, Cassandra following right behind her. As usual, Varric and Solas stand from a distance and provide support from there, and as for Sera-
Wait. Where is Sera?
The knight is too busy putting her focus on the Templars to pay any mind of where the elf archer may be, and so she fights on, cutting through one templar's armor with one swing, while Cassandra provides her assistance by attacking the templar coming for Arturia's side. There are seven templars in total, and so far two has been killed.
Arturia faces one who has decided to charge for her head, with the knight preparing herself, ready to deflect.
"Keep your distance short stuff!"
A small, black ball has suddenly zips by Arturia, plunging itself into the opening of the templar's helmet. Black smoke spews, the templar staggers, swinging his sword madly and starts to...sneeze. He sneezes uncontrollably before an arrow jugs itself into his throat.
More smoke bombs are thrown, their effects released and enveloping the Templars. Their distraction committed, Arturia plunges her sword through one of them's armor and finishing him off. The other templars that could have come for her or Cassandra are all quickly preoccupied by the effects of the smoke bomb, every one of them sneezing without control, and certainly, their eyes are clouded by the smoke and their own tears. It is then that Arturia finally spots Sera, hanging on a nearby tree and firing arrows with such precise aim fitting of an sniper, and while normally Arturia would find herself in distaste at the reminiscent of another sniper she had worked during the Holy Grail War, in this case, Sera tricks and skills are appreciated, and the female rogue at least had the common courtesy to warn Arturia, even though her personality would have said otherwise.
It may be strange for Arturia to feel thankful of Sera's efforts, as they are not the knight's preferred style, but she understands that everyone has their specialty, and if there is some good to Sera's methods, it brings a good advantage for her group. So while Arturia is one who may not personally like such methods or even have need of them, if they will help keep her companions alive, then she shall welcome them...provided that she is warned about these tactics in prior time when it comes to future endeavors.
The last of the templars quickly falls, struck down by Arturia herself. The group stands victorious, all taking in a breath as they share a healing potion for their wounds, Sera being the only one to have avoided receiving any wounds. The elf archer then goes off towards the bodies of the Templars, rummaging through their pockets and some bit of their armor, "Hope you noble types won't mind me making use out of these. Not like these Templars would need them anymore."
"I have nothing against it, but you certainly have proven yourself to be quite a versatile archer, aren't you Sera?"
"Can't be a Red Jenny Agent without knowing a few tricks, you know?"
Arturia nods, and began walking to her horse when she stops at the sight of something peeking out from under the Templar's chest armor. She went to the body and knelt down, grabbing the item that turned out to be a folded paper.
"What do you got there, Pancakes?" Varric asks.
"Pffft hahahaha! P-Pancakes!" Sera chortles. "Oh, that is fun!"
Certainly a nickname Arturia will have to take time in getting used to, somewhat sharing Seras amusement in a more eased manner. The knight unfolds the paper, and discovers words written on it, "...Seems these Templars had business with someone." She offers the note to Cassandra to see what the warrior makes of it.
Cassandra looks over the paper in hand, taking sometime before giving an answer, "To think the Templars would receive smuggled shipments at their request, although I'm not so entirely surprised; the Templars would need support as they cannot solely provide for themselves," she looks back at the knight, "What would you like to do with this?"
Arturia ponders for a moment, and made up her mind, "If this Tanner still remains in the location this note has described, perhaps we should make good on this visit she awaits for."
They arrive at Redcliffe Village, through the passing crowd of the villagers trying to live as much peace as they could collect, with Arturia speaking to a few people in hopes that one of them may know a person by the name of Tanner. She had found someone who did, and they pointed at the woman in cleric clothing.
Oh? So those templars had been communicating with a member of the Chantry. Is there compliance after all and the scene back in Val Royeaux was all just a show? No, that doesn't sound right. What the Chantry had faced was an indisputable insult of the highest order; from what she has learned of the Chantry, they wouldn't crawl to the Templars after being humiliated so publicly by them. In that case, this must be unauthorized business being dealt without the Chantry's consent, well, she will have her answers soon enough...
"Hello. I'm Sister Tanner, can I help you?" The sister greets the knight upon her approach.
Curt as always, Arturia reveals the note in her hand, "I believe this is your note? We had come across a few templars and found this among them; your name is on it."
Tanner's eyes widens, "Shit!" she curses, making the knight jerk her head back a bit in shock at the sudden profanity from a a devout follower of the Maker - or perhaps was never a follower to begin with. There is brief panic in Tanner's gaze before they narrow, "You can't prove anything. A letter from a rogue Templar? Nobody is going to believe it or care," she boldly declares, although her fear is evident in her shaky voice.
Arturia raises her hand, "Calm down, I don't intend to turn you in."
"You...You don't?"
"You weren't?" Sera questions bemusedly. She thought she took Arturia as the stuck-up noble who would get prissy over anything she deems to be unlawful. Cassandra shushes the elf archer and continuing to observe Arturia with curiosity along with the taller blonde.
"I like to know more about the shipments you transfer," Arturia explains, "Perhaps there is something that can be arranged here. I assume it has proven difficult to move your orders place to place in such dire conditions this land is facing; the Inquisition may offer you men to defend your goods if you require it."
The cleric frowns, "You...are you serious? What would the high and mighty Inquisition want with smugglers?"
Arturia looks to Cassandra, cuing the warrior to step forth on the knight's behalf, "Let's see: impersonating a sister. Smuggling. Dishonoring the Chantry robes...I can think of more, if you like, and the longer these list of offense are, the longer you will spend time in prison," Cassandra's eyes narrows as she spoke her list in a deadpanned manner, "Or, if you would rather avoid that, you could instead put those skills to good use for the Inquisition."
"And you keep quiet? Nobody else has to know?" Tanner questions, a mix of hopefulness and fear in her tone.
"That will depend on how honest your efforts are on our behalf."
The hostility in Tanner's gaze lessens, "...I suppose dealing with the Inquisition is a safer bet than with the Templars. You can't imagine how often we think if one day we'll stumbled upon another turf war between them and the Mages."
It is another moment of Arturia and Tanner discussing further details of their business, concluding their arrangement in directing the sister of one of their camps, they shook hands, and the knight with her group left the sister to continue her work.
"...Well, I haven't expected that," Sera speaks up and breaking the silence as they walk deeper into the village, "I thought I taken you the type to arrest people like Tanner or something."
Arturia frowns slightly, and admits, "That was my first instinct true, however, for Tanner to smuggle weapons and other items without anyone's knowledge means that she has connections; connections the Inquisition could use if we wish to spread our influence further. The more reputation we gain, the better chance we have in bringing the Mages and the Templars together into an agreement that will lead us into closing the Breach for good. Excluding the Breach, gathering the Mages and Templars to a peaceful resolution was what the Divine Justinia had wanted to accomplish before her death, something that may not be so far from reality as of yet."
Cassandra is more than pleased to hear this from Arturia, Varric on the other hand is not as appealed, "You're really gonna go for that route?" The dwarf asks, trepidation slowly creeping into his words, "If you haven't noticed already, the Mages and Templars are at an all out WAR right now. No offense or anything, but I just can't see how you can get them to stop killing each other long enough to hear what you have to say."
"I understand your concerns, with what happened at Kirkwall and the fallout from those events..." The knight recalls from reading Varric's book. "But letting things be as they are now will only lead to more lives being lost. At least by this attempt, there is still a chance to end all of this decisively."
The dwarf sighs, "A lot of stuff happened at Kirkwall, too much stuff that it build enough bad blood that might last another century." And to think the person at the center of it all was someone he thought he knew well enough...
Thinking back on it, he can't help but to wonder; what would Hawke be doing now?
It is a warm afternoon at the camp known as Upper Lake, where a man of black hair and a wolf-like beard is at work as he marches towards a group of three men. His expression gives the impression of an sturdy man, garbing in his brown leather clothing with steel plates over his chest, arms and feet. A shield attached to his forearm, and a sword in his hand. He assesses the men before him, young and capable, all three he has taken under his wing for training as they so needed.
"-Remember how to carry your shields," He tells the three men as he marches across them, "You're not hiding, you're holding; otherwise, it's useless."
These men trusts him, believing his words of wisdom and know-how when it comes to fighting. Honestly, he wonders if he is worthy to truly lead these men, if he has what it takes to guide them in harsh times such as now. Of course, it is no question if he even had the right to do such a thing...
But he can't sit back and watch everything go to asunder, he can't simply ignore the cries and pleas of those who couldn't defend themselves or their family, and it certainly isn't so simple to ignore the bodies he comes across in his travels. No, he can't just leave it all, these people need help, they need someone to fight their fight, or at least someone who can teach them how to fend for themselves. He knows what must be done, and if he has to carry himself in the image of a great man if only to encourage others despite what he thinks himself, what he was...
...So be it.
"Warden Blackwall?"
Blackwall sharply turns around at the call, alarmed. He spots the figure that must have come around the lake, a girl with blonde hair in a simple ponytail. There are other members with her; a warrior woman, a dwarf with a crossbow, an elf with a mage's staff, and a female elf with a bow.
Blackwall is immediately on guard, and approaches them with haste, "You're not...How do you know my name?" Only the people here would know his name, and these are people he did not recognize. He did his best to keep himself a low profile, so for anyone outside of the camp to have come for him specifically, he couldn't take it as anything good. "Who sent-"
That's when he saw something shot for the girl, but before he had a mind to raise his shield and defend her, the girl's eyes widen and she moves faster than he ever could, pulling out some kind of an invisible weapon and striking the arrow that had aimed for her head, her companions then responded to her reaction; their weapons drawn.
"Over there!" The warrior woman with short black hair points to the trees, where a group of armed men comes out of hiding to attack.
"Damn bandits," Blackwall utters bitterly, he looks back at the girl and her group, "Either help or get out, but whatever you want with me, we're dealing with these idiots first." He looks to his own men, "This is your chance to prove yourself Conscripts! Here they come!"
"Inquisition, to arms!" The girl orders her group, who complies without argument. The Inquisition? Blackwall has been hearing news of that name as of late, so then it really is true of their pursuing efforts. What's more, this adolescent of a girl is giving the command, meaning she must have a great amount skills for her to have such a powerful authority over the adults. It is almost hard to believe it, but right now, if she and her people can fight, then Blackwall will put off his suspicions of them for now.
They are outnumbered, but these bandits' only advantage is their number. Everything else however, they can't compete with the prowess of Blackwall and the men he trained. It also helps to receive support from the Inquisition group who most certainly made this battle easier to deal with. The girl and her strange invisible sword is far more than a match for any of the simple bandits that comes her way, and her swordsmanship skills is actually quite impressive for someone so young. Her members assists with a great variety of attacks and defense, while the bandits way of fighting is too direct and simple-minded. Within a few moments, the bandits are all killed, and thank the Maker there have been no casualties on Blackwall's side.
Once the battle had come to cease, Blackwall looks over the bandits corpses, there were trinkets among them, and Blackwall is quite certain he's seen some of them from the camp here. Stolen then.
He pierces the blade of his sword into the ground and kneels before a dead bandit's body, "Sorry bastards..." Whatever led these people to think it was their right to kill and steal from others, it has now become a grave mistake they will never make again. He stands back up and approaches his men, "Good work conscripts, even if this shouldn't have happened, they could have..."
No no, he should say something different, something more impactful, something a Grey Warden would say. "Well...thieves are made, not born. Take back what they stole, and go back to your families. You've saved yourselves."
These men would no longer need him to hold their hands, his purpose here is done.
The men thanks him and left for their homes with great haste, eager to put the skills they've learned to great use. It is then that Blackwall is reintroduced to sight of the girl, approaching him with an even expression. He decides to speak first, "You're certainly not one of the farmers here. Who are you?"
"My name is Arturia Pendragon. I am from a group called the Inquisition; we're investigating the disappearance of the Grey Wardens, and see if there is a connection between them and the Divine's murder. Do you know anything about this?"
Blackwall frowns at the end of her explanation, is she accusing the Wardens to have something to do with Divine Justinia's death and that hole in the sky? "Maker's balls, the Wardens and the Divine? That can't...no, you're asking, so you don't really know." He considers himself for a moment, and continues, "First off, I didn't know the Wardens disappeared, but we do that, right? No more Blight, job done, Wardens are the first thing forgotten." His face hardens, "But one thing I'll tell you, no Warden killed the Divine; our purpose isn't political."
"I have not come here to accuse, only question," Arturia answers. "You have been the only Grey Warden we could find, what about the others?"
"Couldn't tell you. I haven't seen any Grey Wardens for months. I've been traveling alone, recruiting. Not much interest because the Arch Demon is a decade dead, and no need to conscript because there's no Blight coming. Treaties give Wardens the right to take what we need, who we need." He motions towards the dead bandits, "These idiots forced these fights, so I conscripted their victims. They had to do what I said, so I told them to stand. Next time they won't need me, that's the power Grey Wardens can induce, inspiring others, make you better than you think you are."
"Why is it that you haven't disappeared like the other Wardens?" Arturia questions.
"Maybe I was going to," Blackwall decisively answers, quickly defending his placement, "Or maybe there was a new directive and a runner got lost or something. My job was to recruit on my own; have plans to stay that way for months, years even."
"Do you know where the other Wardens might have gone? We may need their help for what's happening here."
"It could be that they've returned to our stronghold at Vicehop, that's in the underfells along way north. I...don't really know," Blackwall admits, "I can't imagine why they would all disappear at once. Let alone where they disappeared to."
A deep frown forms on the girl's features, dissatisfied it would appear, "...Thank you Blackwall, I wish there was more to know, but it can't be helped. We'll leave you to continue your travels." Arturia then walks back to her group, speaking to them briefly in what she and the Warden has spoken about.
"So, our best chance is to check their stronghold?" The dwarf deduces.
"It would seem so, but it could be another dead end," The elf mage responds, putting his staff on his shoulder in contemplation. "And that's to say Leliana hasn't already sent her people there to investigate for any clues to their whereabouts."
"If that is the case, then where does this leave us?" The warrior woman questions, clearly disgruntled.
"...We may have to put the Grey Wardens aside for now, and focus on our other missions," Arturia suggests. "We can only wait to see if anything about the Wardens comes up in time."
Blackwall considers leaving them as they are, but couldn't help to overhear their conversation. If the stories are true that the Inquisition are doing what they can to help Thedas, then they would need all the help they can get, especially with that damn vortex staring death down at everyone. "...Wait, just a moment."
He manages to stop them from departing, the group turns around. "Arturia, was it?" The girl confirms Blackwall's question with a nod, "Look...the Divine is dead and the sky is torn. Events like these; thinking the Grey Wardens are absent is almost as bad as thinking we're involved. If you are trying to put things right, maybe you need a Warden. Maybe you need me."
Arturia evaluates the Warden, her eyes showing great, stoic consideration, "The Inquisition is always open for more recruits, but what can YOU offer?"
Blackwall nearly chuckles, "If pressed, save the whole damn world."
Arturia cringes at his answer, not the reaction he was expecting; it is a ridiculous notion in itself that he thought he would have gotten a shared laugh. The knight responds in a neutral tone, "A claim many others have also made, but I would be at better ease to know how you intend to accomplish that task."
...A serious question? Well, Blackwall will actually have to consider it. "...Alright, maybe fighting demons isn't something I've practiced at, but show me someone who is, and like I said, there are treaties. Maybe this isn't a Blight but it's bloody well a disaster; some will honor them, being a Warden means something to a lot of people."
The girl silently considers the Warden for a long moment, sizing him up in a way that actually made Blackwall feel a bit nervous, even though he was clearly older than she was, and yet, there was something about her that he couldn't help but feel the need to be respectful. To be honest, Blackwall found himself impressed.
After a moment, Arturia reveals an hint of a smile, "I believe your intentions are genuine. The Inquisition accepts your offer, Warden Blackwall."
"Good to hear," Says Blackwall, not making his relief and gratefulness visible, "We both need to know what's going on, and perhaps I've been keeping to myself for too long. From now on, this Warden walks with the Inquisition."
"The Inquisition will be honored to have another ally fighting by their side. If you wish to travel with us now, we'll be leaving in a moment after we resupply ourselves."
"I'll be happy to help you with that, I know these farmers well enough, and they'll be glad to offer you anything they can spare."
For Blackwall, this was something he couldn't just walk away from, a chance to help fix what has been damaged to this land, and if it means something to honor the name he carries, then he'll do it if it'll somehow save this land and its people; that was the duty a Grey Warden stood for, and he shall follow it.
And then...he can truly leave behind Thom Rainier.
Translations:
Ar las ma tel'nea neal nen vena nual fra el shias, as'll ea i em'an in min shiral suleth: I hope you won't find Sera too troubling during our travels, she'll be with us in this journey henceforth
Ar'm ar'an gara i. Numeal, ra as's tel eolasal or ash gir era'mana ar elana verb or halani mah?: "I'm sure in some form, we might get along. Sadly, it seems she's ignorant of her own culture, perhaps I can be of assistance to that?
