Chapter 5: Holiday
Several weeks passed in Antiva without further trouble; Mahanon and Josephine were now convinced that Zevran had successfully dispatched the remainder of his small band of rogues to throw the Crows off their tail.
The two of them walked casually along the shoreline, taking in the sound of the crashing waves and the gulls.
"Gorgeous, isn't it?" Josephine remarked of the daytime view. "I haven't seen this sight in ages...it feels good to be home again."
"I still can't believe you can call a place riddled with assassins and mangy politics home," Mahanon replied.
"It isn't all about that," Josephine said. "Come, I think you should try the fish chowder by the market. You won't taste better."
"I'd be glad to see a tailor after that. I don't want to be wearing a 'Zevran souvenir' on my ass every time I put on that old mercenary coat."
Needless to say, the hot bowl of fish chowder was enough to brighten spirits. By sunset, the two had toured the city sights, including a dilapidated bridge, a market exclusively dedicated to the sale of velvets, and a giant monument of a purported legendary fish.
"I think it's time to meet Lord Paraquette." Josephine said after a long day.
Dressed in the finest clothes they could acquire, the two proceeded to the Du Paraquette estate late in the evening. Just as Josephine was about to knock on the front door, the door swung open and a woman stood beaming in front of them, arms outstretched.
"By the Maker, Josephine, it's you!" she exclaimed joyously.
"Sis? What are you doing here?" Josephine asked as the two embraced happily.
"I was so worried, I knew you were coming, but that fool of a courier really is bad at dropping hints. I hope you aren't hurt."
"Not at all, Sis. And subtlety is important when handling sensitive matters, don't forget that! I'm fine, thanks to my husband here."
"In-Inquisitor?"
"This is Yvette, you've met her before at the ball." Josephine introduced.
"Pleased to meet you," Mahanon replied.
"Oh, I think I need a fan..."
"I understand that Josephine owes her thanks to you for sending the message?" Mahanon added.
"Oh my...I mean, yes...you must have met Zevran, then. Charming fellow, he never asked for more than what we agreed with. We need more assassins like him..."
"Ahem...anyways, how is Lord Du Paraquette? Is he well?" Josephine asked.
"He's been trying to drink himself to denial, but otherwise I believe he is fine after hearing of your safe return. "
After two months, it was time to return to Skyhold. Josephine had hired a bigger ship this time, all the better to accommodate for their increasing baggage.
Bidding her family farewell, Josephine and Mahanon gave their regards at the docks.
"I am also pleased to announce that the assassins should trouble you no further," Lord Paraquette explained as he handed a rolled paper to them. "I have seen to this personally."
"Thank you," Mahanon replied.
"All aboard, then!" cried a woman's voice from atop the ship's walkway.
"My goodness, why are you carrying a crossbow?" Josephine asked, slightly startled.
"I just got rid of a rowdy bunch of would-be mutineers, my dear," she replied, strutting confidently towards them. "But have no fear. The crew will think twice about using powdered sugar to blow a hole on our decks."
"Uh...Josephine, are you certain you secured the right ship...?" Mahanon asked, turning to her.
"The name's Admiral Isabela, by the way. I'll be overseeing your trip back to mabari-land. Don't you worry Lady Montilyet, your boy will be safe and sound."
She winked, then proceeded to return to her cabin.
"When I see Varric, I swear I'll pummel him..." Josephine sighed, shaking her head.
Thus concludes the tale of our beloved duo in Antiva. Perhaps more adventures await, but that is for another story...