Andraea had departed for Val Royeaux the next day, a two-week journey on foot, but thankfully Dennett's horses were now in their possession and halved the trip. She'd managed to have a word with Josephine before she left about changing her quarters; She wouldn't be in Haven for long periods of time and the hut was big enough to house several refugees so it made sense for her to be somewhere smaller, she would be happy just setting up her travelling tent every time she came back, but while she agreed the hut could be used for more people, Josephine would hear nothing of the Herald of Andraste pitching and packing a travelling tent every time she returned to Haven and then set off again. In fact, the idea seemed to almost offend the Ambassador. She assured Andraea she would find a suitable solution while she was in Val Royeaux and then proceeded to lecture her on how to behave in front of the remaining Clerics and the nobles that would undoubtedly attend, even if just to watch. True, Andraea had been living in the wilderness for several years now, but she did have a noble education, and a Chantry education on top of that. She wasn't so savage she'd forgotten how to conduct herself. It was more of how she chose to conduct herself in the insufferable company she would be keeping. Varric complained profusely on the journey, particularly on the third day of travel when they suffered a downpour of rain.

"I mean we have the Herald of Andraste! Surely some noble prick would've given us a carriage. You know, with a roof."

"You're welcome to walk on foot and use the horses for shelter, Varric. But I think you might risk worse than a little rain coming down on your head." Andraea jested.

"Short jokes? Really?" He chucked nonetheless and became quite smug when the group reached a flooded section of the road where a brook had overflown, and he was the only one whose ankles didn't touch the water as their horses waded through. "Ha! Bet you wish you were four foot six now!" This was answered by Cassandra, who was riding in front of him, casually knocking an overhead tree branch and showering Varric with even more water and resulting in a pitch Andraea didn't think possible from the gruff dwarf. Solas had been maintaining a shield spell since the rain became heavy and as such his clothing and his horse remained mostly dry. Varric had complained about that too. "If you're not going to share the magic, you should suffer with us." He'd said grouchily, and Andraea agreed with him in part, thoroughly fed up with the rain after it continued for another day, not any lighter.

"It would take a great deal of focus to create and maintain a shield charm of that size and complexity, Master Tethras. A feat difficult to accomplish when a dwarf is persistently displeased by the travelling conditions, regardless of the weather, terrain, or company."

"What about a silencing charm, Solas? It won't stop the rain, but it will give us some peace and quiet." Cassandra suggested dryly.

"Mutiny!" Varric had cried aghast. Solas did not carry out her suggestion but certainly regretted it.

The rain lasted the remainder of the trip to Val Royeaux, their arrival at a generous Comte's estate diminished by the dripping clothes, tired eyes and grumbling, annoyed faces. Even Cassandra out did herself with the disgruntled expression. They were all provided bathing opportunity, warm clothes and soft beds, the ladies making use of the extravagant pool-sized bath first. Even with the shielding of their armour and clothes, their skin and hair had become caked in wet mud and as they entered the water, brown clouds swirled around their bodies. Although the bath was so large it hardly mattered once they moved elsewhere. Andraea had at first been grateful that she'd chosen such an intricate and secure knot to braid her hair into, but after the better half of the journey spent in moderate to heavy rain, it was now damp, smelly, and proving impossible to undo by herself. After several minutes of her fiddling with the knots and muttering curses, Cassandra assisted her with a surprising delicacy and let her long, dark red hair free in the water. Andraea repaid the favour, using her slender fingers to undo the halo braid Cassandra always wore in her hair. The majority of the Seeker's raven hair was cut short, close to her scalp, but a section at the back fell down to just below her shoulder blades. The two warriors combed soaps and oils through each other's hair.

"I don't understand how you can manage all this." Cassandra asked as she added yet another drop of cream to the thick locks; Andraea's hair easily reached her hips when wet.

"It's not so bad once you get used to it."

"But why don't you just cut it? So many knots. And the shedding!" Cassandra grumbled in discomfort as she untangled some loose hair from her fingers.

"I know it's not practical for wandering and fighting, but I like it long. I enjoy braiding it." Andraea took over with a fancy golden comb and ran it through the remaining tangles. "My mother used to enjoy giving me all these extravagant hairstyles when I was little. I think she would kill me if I cut it all off, never mind the Chantry." She chuckled half-heartedly as the thought of the remaining Clerics sent her stomach into a pit.

"It will be fine. The inquisition will not let anything happen to you." Cassandra started combing her own hair. "You know, I used to have hair as long as yours. Many, many years ago. My mother too, would braid it. And comb it before I went to bed. That was… a long time ago." Sensing it was a sore subject, Andraea didn't press Cassandra and began tying her wet hair into a single, simple plait. Having finished combing, Cassandra also tied her hair back into the halo braid. The two finished up and donned the silky soft robes provided by the Comte and made their way to the side-by-side suites where they would be sleeping. "We should rest. Tomorrow will be a trying day. I only hope it will not be in vain." And with a nod, the Seeker entered her room and closed the door.

Andraea entered her own room, slid under the sheets of the bed that was feather soft and fell into an uneasy, broken sleep.

The bells tolled across the vibrant blue sky above Val Royeaux, the sun glinting off of the golden rooftops as Andraea and her fellows approached the city gates.

"The city still mourns." Cassandra stated as Andraea looked around at the decadent splendour of Val Royeaux. She hadn't travelled much of Orlais, only brief ventures into The Dales to assist elven refugees find Dalish clans, so she hadn't seen the full grandeur of Orlesian culture before. It staggered her. As she was admiring the architecture of a golden lion, two Orlesians walked past them, staring behind their gilded masks, and then hurrying away in fright.

"Just a guess, Seeker, but I think they all know who we are." Varric deduced. Cassandra rolled her eyes and sighed.

"Your skills of observation never fail to impress me, Varric." Just then, as they reached the main gate, an inquisition scout ran to meet them.

"My Lady Herald!" The scout kneeled respectfully, and Andraea felt herself going red.

"You're one of Leliana's people. What have you found?"

"The Chantry Mothers await you, but so do a great many Templars." Andraea's stomach dropped even further than it was already sitting.

"There are Templars here?" The Seeker asked.

"People seem to think the Templars will protect them from… the Inquisition. They're gathering on the other side of the market. I think that's where the templars intend to meet you." With her report finished, the scout rose to her feet.

"There's only one thing to do then." Said Cassandra, striding forward towards the market and the others following suit. After only a few steps, she stopped and indignantly remarking, "They wish to protect the people, from us!?"

"From me. The Devil that took their Divine." Andraea grimaced.

"That's not true and we will prove it to them! I didn't expect the Templars to make an appearance." Cassandra ran her hand through the hair.

"You think the Order's returned to the fold, maybe? To deal with us upstarts?" Varric asked. She shook her head.

"I know Lord Seeker Lucius. I can't imagine him coming to the Chantry's defence, not after all that's occurred."

"We're doing this to get help with the Breach, maybe this is our chance to get aid from the Templars?" Andraea suggested hopefully. It would make things a great deal easier.

"Perhaps. Return to Haven. Someone will need to inform them of what's happened if we are… Delayed." The Seeker instructed.

"As you say, my Lady." And the scout hurried off. The promenade leading to the market spire was lined with statues of Orlesian heroes and nobles. Andraea might have found them beautiful and taken the time to read their polished plaques in a different circumstance, but as it was, she felt as though they were watching her with scorn, judging her the way the Chantry was judging her. As they entered the market, Andraea could see a crowd gathering at the other side, and to the left of the spire, a stage with gallows was constructed. Her throat clenched. Had they decided her fate so blatantly? They must have seen her staring at it because as they walked past it, Cassandra and Solas blocked her view and Varric reached up and patted her back reassuringly. It did little to ease her worry. A group of Orlesian guardsmen crossed their path, and their leader took little care to keep his voice low.

"Stand wary, Guardsmen! The Inquisition is here… Along with the 'Herald of Andraste'."

"They say they found the Free Marcher covered in the Divine's blood." A guard in red snarled, his eyes glinting with hatred through his helmet. The head officer held out his arm to stop his fellow from stepping forward.

"Let her pass. The Inquisition is the Templars' problem. And they'll fix it." His gravelly voice betrayed the sneer his crested helm obscured. Amidst the crowd, a smaller platform was constructed where a Revered Mother of the Chantry was stood with two chancellors and a few members of the Templar Order. As they approached, the Cleric spoke.

"Good people of Val Royeaux, hear me! Together, we mourn our Divine. Her naïve and beautiful heart, silenced by treachery!" She gestured towards Andraea. "You wonder what will become of her murderer. Well, wonder no more. Behold, the so-called 'Herald of Andraste', claiming to rise, where our beloved fell." The crowd all looked at Andraea and the muttering and whispers ensued. "We say, this is a false Prophet! No servant beyond her selfish greed!" The crowd no longer murmured but shouted and yelled at Andraea. False Herald. Murderer. Traitor. Demon. Enough.

"I make no such claim! I wasn't sent here by Andraste or the Maker!" The crowd silenced. Andraea knew she should encourage the rumour of her supposed providence to benefit the Inquisition, but she didn't care. "I am simply trying to close the Breach! It threatens us all! That is the true enemy, and we must unite to stop it!"

"It's true! The Inquisition seeks only to end this madness before it is too late!" Cassandra implored.

"It is already too late!" The Cleric announced triumphantly, gesturing to her left to welcome the Templars. "The Templars have returned to the Chantry! They will face this 'Inquisition', and the people will be safe once more!" She beamed at the commander but that was soon replaced with confusion as he strode past her and then a second Templar struck the Cleric on the back of the head, knocking her unconscious. The Templar that had been stood guarding her, looked shaken, and the commander patted his arm reassuringly.

"Still yourself. She is beneath us."

"What's the meaning of this!? Was that display supposed to impress me?" Andraea snarled. The grey-haired man turned and looked down on her with disgust.

"On the contrary. It wasn't for you at all. Her claim to authority is an insult. Much like your own." He strode off the right side of the stage, followed by his Templars but Cassandra hurried over to talk to him.

"Lord Seeker Lucius! It's imperative that we speak with-" But the Lord Seeker held up his hand, interrupting her.

"You will not address me."

"Lord Seeker?" She slowed to a halt in confusion.

"Creating a heretical movement. Raising up a puppet as Andraste's Prophet. You should be ashamed. You should all be ashamed! The Templars failed no one when they left the Chantry to purge the mages! You are the ones who have failed. You, who'd leash our righteous swords with doubt and fear! If you came to appeal to the Chantry, you are too late. The only destiny here that demands respect, is mine!"

"If you're not here to help the Chantry, then you just came here to make speeches!" Andraea scoffed, as she strode to Cassandra's side, finding herself gaining confidence. She turned to the other Templars. "Templars, one of your own commands the Inquisitions forces! Join us as he did!" But the Lord Seeker derided her.

"A staunch and loyal member of the Order. So loyal, he abandoned them for a false Herald. Ha! We came to see what frightens old women so. And we have found it is but a pathetic noble brat playing hero." He laughed derisively, as did some of his fellows except for a few including the young Templar that had been on the stage, who stepped forward to his superior.

"But Lord Seeker… What if she really was sent by the Maker? What if-?" But another soldier cut him off.

"You are called to a higher purpose! Do not question!"

"I Will make the Templar Order a power that stands alone against the Void. We deserve recognition. Independence! You have shown me nothing, and the Inquisition… Less than nothing." He spat at Andraea. "Templars! Val Royeaux is unworthy of our protection! We march!" And Lord Seeker Lucius led his soldiers out of the city. Andraea maintained her composure, fists clenched until they were out of sight, when she let out a deep sigh, adrenaline still pumping in her veins. She had been worried a fight was about to breakout.

"Charming fellow, isn't he?" Varric remarked, dryly, re-joining the two women along with Solas now that the crowd had dispersed somewhat.

"Has Lord Seeker Lucius gone mad?" Cassandra was bewildered.

"Do you know him very well?" Andraea asked.

"He took over the Seekers of Truth two years ago, after lord Seeker Lambert's death. He was always a decent man, never given to ambition and grandstanding. This is very bizarre." She explained. Andraea sighed in frustration.

"It doesn't look like we'll be getting the Templars' help after all. Unless you think he can be reasoned with, Cassandra?" Solas stated.

"I hope so. But if not him, I wouldn't write off the rest of them so quickly. There must be those in the Order who see what he's become. Or at least don't feel as he does." Andraea did notice more than just that one Templar who had uneasy looks on their faces. The doubt was in the ranks, and they could exploit that. "Either way, we should first return to Haven and inform the others." The others moved to leave, but Andraea turned.

"Wait a moment." They waited as she went over to the Revered Mother, still on the floor but conscious now.

"This victory must please you greatly, Seeker Cassandra." She groaned.

"We came here seeking only to speak with the Mothers. This is not our doing, but yours." She retorted.

"And you had no part in forcing our hand? Do not delude yourself. Now we have been shown up by our own Templars, in front of everyone. And my fellow Clerics have scattered to the wind, along with their convictions. Just tell me one thing: if you do not believe you are the Maker's chosen, what are you?" She asked Andraea, who knelt down beside her.

"Someone who can help close the Breach and end this madness." The old woman looked into Andraea's eyes and softened.

"That is… more comforting than you might imagine. I suppose it is out of our hands now. We shall see what the Maker plans in the days to come." There was a moment before Andraea asked,

"What do you believe I am?"

"Our Divine, her Holiness, is dead. I have seen evidence for everything except what would comfort me." The old woman shook her head in grief.

"That doesn't answer my question." The Mother sighed.

"For you to be true, a great many things must be false. And if you are false, a great many things must have failed. There is chaos ahead, whatever your intentions."

"So, what happens now? Will the Chantry continue to denounce me?" To her surprise, the old Cleric chuckled.

"We have already done so, and what good has it done us? Now it falls on us to select a new Divine, if we can, and leave the next step to her. I truly don't know. Any revered Mother who could have followed Justinia died at the Conclave. What becomes of us and your Inquisition, is in the Maker's hands now." Andraea put her hand on the Revered Mother's and squeezed gently.

"It's not too late: The Chantry could still help the Inquisition and come out on top."

"If only that were true." Andraea looked perplexed.

"What's to stop you from trying?"

"We are not looking for a winning horse. We are simply trying to do the right thing." A few healers arrived to assist the Mother away from the market and Andraea rose and stood aside, re-joining the others so they could leave.

"That was a very decent thing you did, Herald." Solas said, smiling warmly. "It will undoubtedly be a kindness remembered in future, even if it did not beget the results you'd hoped."

"Thank you, Solas. We should get going."

"What? Don't want to peruse the famous Summer Bazaar? Take in the rich culture and the smell of heavy perfume that barely covers the smell of piss and shit?" Varric jested.

"Any other time, believe me. But somehow don't think sight-seeing will be as fun now." They hadn't taken many steps before something fast landed not a foot in front of Andraea.

"What's that!? An arrow with a message?" Cassandra exclaimed as Andraea pulled it from the flagstones. She read the letter aloud.

"It says, 'People say you're special. I want to help, and I can bring everyone. There's a baddie in Val Royeaux. I hear he wants to hurt you. Have a search for the red things in the Market, the Docks and 'round the Café, and maybe you'll meet him first. Bring swords. Friends of Red Jenny.' There're some doodles on here about the locations." She held up the parchment and turned it to see better. "Well, should we find these 'red things' they mention. If they'll lead to an enemy of the Inquisition."

"I believe so, but we should be careful. It could also be a trap." Cassandra took the paper and looked it over herself. "Such bizarre phrasing. Who are these 'friends of Red Jenny'? And who is she?"

"No idea. But I it looks like you'll get your sight-seeing done after all, Varric." Andraea remarked, taking back the letter. "The Market, the Docks and the Café."

After searching the Summer Bazaar and the surrounding areas, the group found their three red things; A red handkerchief under a table at the nearby café, one amidst barrels and sack of cargo at the docks, and one fluttering from under a potted plant on a balcony in the upper ring of the market, only spotted thanks to Varric's eagle-eyes. Each handkerchief had attached a letter and a key for the one found at the docks. Together the messages revealed a time, path, and key to a designated location in Val Royeaux, but they would have to leave the Summer Bazaar in order to access it. On their quest for the red things, Andraea had been approached by a stall owner by the name of Belle. She had offered to assist the Inquisition with food deliveries and supplies and Andraea was not about to turn down the offer of help. She had asked for Cassandra's opinion, but the Seeker encouraged the Herald to decide.

"You are the Herald of Andraste, Andraea. I know this is new and intimidating, but you will need to make decisions by yourself, or no one will think you capable of what needs to be done." She scolded after Belle was recruited successfully. "We will investigate the enemy that these 'Red Jennies' have located, but we must return to Haven as soon as possible and inform then of the Lord Seeker's actions." Cassandra instructed as the group walked towards the statue-lined promenade they had entered through. They had just passed through the gates when a voice called out from behind them.

"If I might have a moment of your time." They turned to see an elven mage with black hair cut short, wearing the unmistakable robes of a high-ranking Circle Mage.

"Grand Enchanter Fiona?" Cassandra greeted with some degree of surprise.

"Leader of the Mage Rebellion." Solas confirmed, stepping forward to greet her. "Is it not dangerous for you to be here?"

"I heard of this gathering, and I wanted to see the fabled Herald of Andraste with my own eyes." She looked at Andraea and seemed to be taking in her appearance, almost analysing her. It made her uncomfortable. Bu the elf smiled. "If it's help with the Breach you seek, perhaps my people are the wiser option?" Andraea took a moment to survey the Grand Enchanter before responding.

"I'm surprised the leader of the Mages wasn't at the Conclave." She said carefully.

"Yes. You were supposed to be. And yet somehow, you avoided death." Cassandra affirmed, a subtle hint of accusation in her tone.

"As did the Lord Seeker, you'll note." Fiona challenged. "Both of us sent negotiators in our stead in case it was a trap." Her face softened slightly. "I won't pretend I am glad to live. I lost many dear friends that day. It disgusts me to think the Templars will get away with it. I'm hoping you won't let them."

"So, you think the Templars are responsible?"

"Why wouldn't she?"

"Lucius hardly seems broken up over his losses if he's concerned about them at all. You heard him. You think he wouldn't happily kill the Divine to turn people against us?" She made a very good point. Andraea was all too familiar with the abuse of power that occurred when Mage-haters became Templars and more so when they gained rank. "So, yes, I think he did it. More than I think you did it, at any rate."

"And what do you want in exchange for the Mages' help?" Andraea highly doubted this offering would come for free. The Grand Enchanter wouldn't be risking her neck in Val Royeaux for nothing. The mage smiled coyly.

"Oh, I haven't promised the Inquisition our help yet. Consider this an invitation to Redcliffe. Come, meet with the Mages. An alliance could help us both, after all. I hope to see you there. Au revoir my Lady Herald." And with that, she disappeared into the market.

"Come, let us deal with this Red Jenny mystery and then return to Haven." Cassandra beckoned and they too walked away down the promenade.

"You were surprisingly quiet Master Dwarf." Solas commented. "I would have thought meeting the leader of the Mage Rebellion would have caused great interest from an avid writer such as yourself."

"Of course, I was interested but I have enough sense not to whip out my notebook in the middle of an approach like that. Besides, I don't have anything worth much to talk about when it comes to magic and the Rebellion. I am intrigued as who this new friend of ours is though. Hidden clues, a helper in the shadows, it'll give me great material for another crime serial." The dwarf explained as they started navigating the alleyways behind rich estates of the city.

It was dark by the time they reached the designated area and Andraea had to hold out her arm to stop the others from rounding a corner.

"What is it?" Cassandra whispered as Andraea peered around the corner.

"Armed men. Three of them. Two down here, one up the stairs. They're not wearing uniforms, so I suspect they're mercs. We'll take them by surprise. Varric, you can take out the one up the stairs. Cassandra and I will tackle the two on this level and Solas, you cover us." They all nodded firmly before stepping into action. Varric managed to hit his target on the first try, sending a bolt straight through his chest.

"It's the Inquisition's Herald!" One of the remaining men shouted as Cassandra and Andraea quickly advanced on the other two mercenaries while Solas froze their feet to the spot, making them easy targets.

"Well, they know who I work for at least." Andraea muttered, helping Cassandra move some crates to hide the bodies from the open windows of a residence overlooking the alley. A bell tolled three times, prompting the group to rush up the stairs to a locked door, which thanks to their mystery friend, they had a key for. Unlocking it, Andraea cautiously stepped through with her sword and shield drawn. A good thing too, as two fireballs narrowly missed her head. The culprit was stood in the centre of the courtyard. A masked Orlesian noble.

"Herald of Andraste! How much did you expend to discover me? It must have weakened the Inquisition immeasurably!" He seemed quite proud to have been discovered.

"I don't know who you are." She shrugged but he turned his nose upward with his hands on his hips.

"You don't fool me! I'm too important for this to be an accident! Mt efforts will survive in victories against you elsewhere!" A cry of pain alerted everyone to the presence of another as a guard fell down dead and behind him stood an elven archer.

"Just say 'What'."

"What is the-" And she shot an arrow into the man's throat.

"Eurgh!" She lowered her bow and approached Andraea. "Squishy one, but you heard me, right? 'Just say what'. Rich tits always try for more than they deserve." She paced over to the body and retrieved her arrow. "Blah, blah, blah. 'Obey me! Arrow in my face!' So, you followed the notes well enough. Glad to see you're… You're kinda plain really. All that talk and you're just a person. I mean, it's all good, innit? The important thing is: you glow? You're the Herald thingy?" This woman was strange, and Andraea didn't know if she could trust her. She wasn't eager to share everything straight away.

"Some believe I'm the Herald of Andraste, yes. But who are you, and what's this about?"

"No idea! I don't know this idiot from manners. I just know he would've said magic and my people just said the Inquisition would want him dead." The archer shrugged.

"Your people? Elves?" But this made the archer scoff.

"Ha! No! People people. Name's Sera. This is cover, get round it!" She gestured to a nearby crate. Andraea cocked an eyebrow. "For the reinforcements. Don't worry, someone tipped me their equipment shed. They've got nor breeches!" She grinned. As promised, reinforcements ran from other alleys, indeed with no breeches but still wielding sharp pointy metal.

"Why didn't you take their weapons!?" Andraea shouted as she blocked a polearm aimed at her kidney.

"Because no breeches!" Sera laughed as she shot another mercenary and Andraea disarmed and stabbed the one attacking her. She saw the elf dance out of the way as Varric shot one of them in the back of the head, making him collapse over the crates and Sera slapped the man's exposed buttocks. "Cheeky, yeah?" Distracted by this display, Andraea only just noticed a breech-less attacker advancing on her and slammed her knee into his crotch, following up with a shield bash to the head. "Right in the plums!" She heard Sera cackle. This woman was insane! Cassandra dispatched the last man as Solas froze him. Sera leapt away from it. "Oh, you're magic. And an elf." She grimaced. "Well, hope you're not too elfy." Solas looked like he was about to object but Sera turned her back and addressed Andraea. "Friends really came through with that tip. No breeches." She giggled. "So, Herald of Andraste. You're a strange one. I'd like to join."

"How about we get to know each other first. You know, names and such." Sera seemed to hesitate but agreed.

"One name. No, wait, two. It's… well it's like this. I sent you a note to look for hidden stuff by my friends. The friends of Red Jenny. That's me! Well, I'm one. So is a fence in Montford, some woman in Kirkwall. There were three in Starkhaven! Brothers or something." Sera must have noticed the looks of utter confusion everyone was giving her. "It's just a name, yeah? It lets little people, friends, be part of something while they stick it to nobles they hate. So here, in ya face, I'm Sera. The friends of Red Jenny are sort of out there. I use them to help you. Plus, arrows."

"But the Inquisition has spies already. Can you add to these professionals?"

"Here's how it works. You, important people are up here, shoving your cods around, blah, blah I'll crush you, I'll crush you!" And she started making her hands kiss each other. "Ahem, then you've got cloaks and spy kings. Like this tit. Or was he one of the little knives? All serious with his little knife. All those secrets, and what gave him up? Some houseboy, who don't know shite, but knows a bad person when he sees one. So, no. I'm not knifey shivdark all hidden. But if you don't listen down here too, you risk your breeches. Like those guards! I stole their… look, do you need people or not? I want to get everything back to normal. Like you." Andraea took a moment to consider and glanced at Cassandra who shrugged. Right. She had to make her own decisions.

"Alright, Sera. I can use you and your friends."

"Yes! Get in good before you're too big to like. That'll keep your breeches where they should be. Plus, extra breeches because I have all these… You have merchants who buy that pish yeah? Got to be worth something. Anyway, Haven. See you there, Herald. This will be grand!" And the strange rogue ran off into the darkness of the alleyways.

"Are you sure that was wise, Andraea? I know the Inquisition needs allies, but she seems… erratic." Cassandra asked.

"You told me I need to make my own decisions and I did! I didn't understand everything she was saying but she does make a valid point about listening to everyday people. We need to get people on our side or at least, you know, not afraid of me. These 'Friends of Red Jenny' seem like they can do that. And important people talk in front of servants and nobodies, we could get a lot of valuable information."

"Bright eyes is right, Seeker. If we're going to do this, we need support where we can get it and commoners outnumber nobles by a lot."

"We are not fighting a war against nobles, Varric." Cassandra snapped.

"Not right now. But a good reputation with common folk will bolster our chances with the Mages and the Templars. A lot of them have families in the working class and I'm sure they'd want to side with people who have a reputation for helping the little guy."

"It is done now. We should head back to the Comte's estate for the night. We can set off for Haven in the morning." Solas interjected. Andraea agreed wholeheartedly and the group returned the way they had come.

No sooner had they arrived back at the Comte's estate, than they were informed a messenger had visited with a letter of invitation from First Enchanter Vivienne to a Salon at the Chateau of Duke Bastien De Ghislain. For Andraea only.

"I might as well go and see what this Madame de Fer has to say. We've got a way to gain support from commoners, now we have an opportunity to gain favour in the Orlesian courts." Andraea reasoned as Cassandra paced the drawing room.

"The first Enchanter is indeed a popular and powerful woman. But I am uneasy. She is not the type of person who gives help freely. She will want something. And I cannot in good conscience let you go alone."

"Don't most people? Look, I can simply talk with her, see what she offers and what she wants in return and if we disagree I will decline her offer in an acceptable manner. I do have experience with nobility, Cassandra. And trust me, deigning to not show up after a personal invitation is a far worse offence than hearing her out and saying no." The Seeker was still visibly conflicted but conceded with a nod. "Thank you. The three of you ride back to Haven in the morning, the Comte will have a small personal guard escort me to the Ghislain estate and I will depart for Haven immediately after. I'm not stranger to travelling alone and I'll be less likely to attract attention as the Herald without Inquisition soldiers around."

"She'll be fine, Seeker. If she's not back two days after we reach Haven, we'll send out a rescue party. Sound fair?" Varric patted Cassandra's arm and again, she hesitated before nodding.

The estate was sprawling, far grander than the Comte's holdings. The carriage ride from the front gates to the manor was ten minutes easily. Entering through the ornate carvings of the royal blue doors in her armour, made Andraea feel very out of place.

"Lady Trevelyan of Ostwick, representing the Inquisition." The announcer called. Almost immediately two Orlesians approached her, a man, and a woman in party attire. Back straight, chin slightly up, a serene smile, Andraea could hear her mother in her head.

"What a pleasure to meet you, my Lady. Seeing the same faces at every event becomes tiresome." The gentleman greeted, bowing slightly and the lady curtsied. Andraea curtsied also. "So, you must be a guest of Madame de Fer. Or are you here for Duke Bastien?"

"Are you here on business?" The lady asked interestedly. "I have heard the most curious tales of you. I cannot imagine half of them are true."

"That depends on what you have heard about me, my Lady." Andraea put on a charmingly coy smile.

"Well, some say that when the Veil opened, Andraste herself delivered you from the Fade."

"I can't attest to who it was, but there was indeed a woman with me that day. Such chaos, I'm sure you understand the details are lost, my lady."

"Of course, of course." Andraea looked around and spotted a large portrait of who she assumed was the Duke.

"Forgive me, I was invited by Lady Vivienne, but I've heard very little about Duke Bastien. Perhaps you would be kind enough to enlighten me?"

"He hasn't been seen much at court lately."

"His business with the Council of Heralds often takes him from home for long periods. It can't be good for a man of his years." The man explained.

"And of course, there's the civil war!" The lady piped up. "Bastien probably wishes to distance himself from the actions if his one-time son-in-law."

"Tearing up the Dales in a foolish bid for power? It will end in disgrace for Gaspard. Everyone knows it. But enough of that, tell us, my Lady, I have heard stories of how you charged, single-handedly, through hoards of Demons to halt the Breach's expansion. Are they true?"

"Some of those storytellers may have gotten carried away." Andraea chuckled modestly.

"But only for the best effect. The Inquisition is a ripe subject for wild tales."

"The Inquisition? What a load of pig shit!" A new voice, from a noble walking down the marble staircase. Clearly drunk. "Washed up sisters and crazed Seekers? No one can take them seriously. Everyone knows it's just an excuse for a bunch of political outcasts to grab power." And he wasn't caring to keep his voice down either. Andraea wanted to ask what his point was but by then everyone was staring at the scene so instead she maintained composure.

"I never made any claims to holiness. The Inquisition is working to close the Breach and restore peace and order to Thedas."

"You admit in front of all these people to be a blasphemous, pretentious usurper! Here comes the outsider, restoring peace with and army!" He walked right up to Andraea, got right in her face but she did not back away. "We know what your 'Inquisition' truly is. If you were a woman of honour, you'd step outside and answer the charges." He reached for his sword on his back and Andraea could taste the ozone before it happened as he froze in place, frost creeping over his face

"My dear Marquis, how unkind of you to use such language in my house to my guests." The light of the cold spell emanating from her hand illuminated her as she descended the stairs, dressed in a silken suit, complete with puffed sleeves, high collar and a headdress that resembled dragon horns. "You know such rudeness is… intolerable."

"Madame Vivienne, I humbly beg your pardon!" The Marquis grimaced through chattering teeth as she approached.

"You should. Whatever am I going to do with you, my dear?" Vivienne turned to Andraea. "My Lady, you're the wounded party in this unfortunate affair. What would you have me do with this foolish, foolish man?" Andraea was quite taken aback. She did not expect this decision to fall to her. She wasn't familiar enough with the Orlesian Game to know if this was a trap or what the correct answer would be. The Marquis had surely insulted her, but she had no idea what punishment that warranted. She had been quite ready to punch him outside as was his request.

"The Marquis doesn't interest me. Do what you will with him, my Lady." It was an acceptable response as Vivienne smiled and turned back to her icy captive, gripping his cheeks in her hand.

"Poor Marquis, Issuing challenges and hurling insults like some Fereldan dog lord." She snapped her fingers and released him. "And all dressed up in your aunt Solange's doublet. Didn't she give you that to wear to the Grand Tourney? To think, all the brace Chevaliers who will be competing left for Markham this morning… And you're still here. Were you hoping to sate your damaged pride by defeating the Herald of Andraste in a public duel? Or did you think her sword would end the shame of your failure?" The Marquis did not respond. Vivienne was wicked with her words and displaying her wit and intelligence. "Run along, my dear. Do give my regards to your aunt." And the Marquis left hurriedly tale between his legs. Lady Vivienne turned her attention back to Andraea. "I'm delighted you could attend this little gathering. I've so wanted to meet you. Come, let us discuss why I invited you here." She beckoned Andraea to follow her up the stairs and to a window lit by moonlight. "There, let me look at you." She positioned Andraea in the moonlight and circles her, it made her uncomfortable, but she straightened her back and held her head high. The Enchanter chuckled. "There's no need for all that, my dear. I simply want to take you in. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Vivienne, First Enchanter of Montsimmard and Enchantress to the Imperial Court."

"Charmed, Lady Vivienne." Andraea curtsied again. "Um… what about the Marquis? Will he pose a problem?"

"His aunt is the Vicomtesse of Mont-de-Glace. Not a powerful family but well-respected… and very devout. Not unlike the Trevelyans. Alphonse will be disowned for this. It's not the first time he's brought his aunt disgrace, but I'm sure it'll be the last. And after such a public humiliation, I expect he'll run off to the Dales to join the Empress's war effort. Either to make a good end or to win back a modicum of self-respect. Ah, but I didn't invite you to the Chateau for pleasantries. With Divine Justinia dead, the Chantry is in shambles. Only the Inquisition might restore sanity and order to our frightened people. As the leader of the last loyal mages of Thedas, I feel it only right that I lend my assistance to your cause." Vivienne started circling Andraea again with a contemplative look.

"Is your interest in the Inquisition, Madame de Fer, or is it more personal?" But this made the Lady laugh.

"Aren't you charming? It's professional, of course."

"In that case, you say you led the last of the loyal Mages. Loyal to whom?"

"To the people of Thedas, of course. We have not forgotten the commandment, as some have, that magic exists to serve man. I support any effort to restore such order."

"So, you're in favour of returning the mages to the Circle then?" It was a pointed question, one to gauge Vivienne's standing, as a mage herself.

"Where else can Mages safely learn to master their talents? We need an institution to protect and nurture magic. Maker knows, magic will find neither on its own." An answer Andraea could agree with. She sat on the windowsill.

"Alright then. You're openly mingling with a heretical movement once denounced by the Chantry and now denounced by the Lord Seeker of the Templars. What's in this for you?"

"The same thing anyone gets by fighting this chaos. The chance to meet my enemy, to decide my fate. I won't wait quietly for destruction."

"Then what exactly can you do for the Inquisition? You understand I will need to make the best use of my allies if I am to succeed, my Lady."

"I am well versed in the politics of the Orlesian Empire. I know every member of the Imperial Court personally. I have all the resources remaining to the Circle at my disposal. And I'm a mage of no small talent. Will that do?" She smiled coyly and Andraea smiled back.

"The Inquisition will be happy to have you, Lady Vivienne."

"Great things are beginning, my dear. I can promise you that. Now. The hour is late, and I will not have you travelling back to the Comte's estate at this time. You are welcome to stay in one of my guest suites and I shall arrange for a carriage to take you back to Haven in the morning. I still have some business to attend to, things to prepare, affairs to set in order. I shall join you in Haven when I am finished. Until next time, my Lady Herald."