August 17, 9:31
To Isabella,
From Merrill,
Isabella, please come back and stay at the estate for a while longer. She's starting to drink herself to sleep at night, once we have Fiolya settled. Worse than usual, I mean. I tell her every day what happened wasn't her fault, but you know how she is.
August 17, 9:31
Kitten, it's Captain Isabella, and I'm packing my things up now. Is she still sticking to wine, or has she started mixing it?
August 17, 9:31
Captain Isabella,
Still just wine, but she stole at least two of the bottles Varric tried to hide.
~ Merrill
August 18, 9:31
Paragon of Manliness,
Good news, it's not as bad as Merrill thought, but Maeve's still in a snit about this title thing still. And she's still blaming herself for the attack on the Alienage. If we leave her alone she's just going to get worse about the wine, I've seen it happen to sailors before.
I'm going to take her down the Alienage to make an appearance, then abduct her for another search for my treasure along the coast. Some fresh sea air will do her good. You might want to use that chance to hide your strong stuff, and water down the rest.
~ Captain Isabella
August 18, 9:31
Rivaini,
Keep her out there for a few days and I'll get it handled. Might want to take her new squire too. If she's too busy teaching the girl to fight then maybe she'll be too busy to think about what happened.
~ Varric
August 20, 9:31
Blondie,
You can't just keep hiding away in Darktown. Brennan needs to talk to you, and so do I. Come on up for a card night. Just the three of us, Buzz and Daisy are either hiding at the estate or too busy in the Alienage for our old routine, and Fenris is only barely showing his face in public again.
~ Varric
August 21, 9:31
Varric,
I'll talk to you both, but at the clinic. The city's too dangerous for anything else.
Anders
August 29, 9:31
To Knight Commander Meredith Stannard,
from the office of the Grand Cleric,
Seeker Pentaghast arrived unannounced at the Chantry this very morning, along with her apprentice. She has demanded all of our letters and documents pertaining to the recent incidents within the Gallows and Kirkwall at large, and has a writ from the Divine herself.
Her apprentice was of a looser tongue; Ser Alrik's indiscretions involving the Right of Tranquility reached the ears of the Divine as reports rather than mere rumor. I will ensure that no lasting damage is done to your position, as always, but Cassandra Pentaghast is not easily talked down like Lucius Corin.
Examples will need to be made. I trust the Maker shall guide your path as always my dearest friend,
~ Elthina
Kingsway 4, 9:31
To Varric,
From Merrill,
Fenris finally stopped by again. He was... polite. For Fenris. I think Isabella put him up to it. Did she?
He talked to Maeve about how to help Fiolya. I don't know if it helped or not, but they didn't start yelling at each other again. I don't think he wanted to talk to me though.
Kingsway 8, 9:31
Deshyr Varric Tethras,
The Seekers have completed their investigation, and are taking Ser Alrik and seven other Templars to the Grand Chantry for trial. Meredith gave over enough evidence to ensure that they will hang. How much if it true, how much of it fabricated to protect herself, I do not know.
The Grand Cleric and Knight-Commander are assuredly aware that someone within the Chantry went outside of the proper order of things to report his actions. I do not now how much aid I will be in future events of this kind.
I know this will not soothe our Grey Warden, not after what happened to his dear friend, but perhaps he may sleep easier knowing that the men responsible shall be punished for their crimes in this world and the next. The others rendered illegally tranquil are being moved to the College of Magi and Kinloch Hold by the Seeker's order.
I shall keep you informed as best I can,
Revered Mother Petrice, Kirkwall Alienage
Kingsway 9, 9:31
Scowls,
We both know they're not getting killed for breaking the law, they're getting killed for getting caught. I don't think Blondie's going to be very reassured, and no, I still can't get him out of his clinic. I think he's trying to work himself to death right now.
Also, I need you to talk to Buzz. Her drinking is getting worse again, even with Isabella and Fenris trying to talk to her. I've had to hide my heavy stuff, but she's damned sneaky and keeps finding it. I think she knows we've been watering down her wine and resealing it too.
Maybe you can manage what they couldn't and get her to ease up a little.
~ Varric
Kingsway 9, 9:31
To the most revered Grand Cleric,
from the Knight-Commander of Kirkwall
It is done, and of no particular consequence. Alric's use had long ago ended, and the Seeker allowed me to remove several others whose sinful lusts outweighed their sense of duty.
The Seeker was otherwise understanding of the problems we face in Kirkwall, and the First Enchanter's drama was neatly undercut by my mention of last month's assault on the Alienage.
The Right Hand of the Divine was suitably disgusted that the so-called Mage Underground would massacre innocents simply because they were devout Andrastians who reported on the crimes of maleficar.
Orsino had no response to that, nor to the facts that the disgusting maleficar in the Foundry was clearly receiving aid and materials from within the Circle. The Seeker dismissed him, curtly, and we spent time discussing possible ways of increasing recruitment for the Order before she departed with the prisoners.
I shall see you on the morrow for the trial and executions,
Walk in the path of our Blessed Andraste,
~ Meredith
Kingsway 11, 9:31
- T
I was in the crowd when the sword came down. They're all dead. It won't bring any of our loved ones back to us, but the 'Tranquil Solution' has well and truly died.
That's the extent of the good news. I have a contact who confirms that the Seeker sided with Meredith more often than not, entirely thanks to that lunatic who was dismembering women, and the fact that we unleashed abominations on the Elves.
I told you so.
Now we're broke, half of our number are dead, and the Templars have the Chantry's blessing to keep acting like they have. We've completely burned our bridges with the Elves; my contacts there say they have lost all sympathy for the plight of the mages, and I cannot blame them.
I'll beg them to let us continue getting children out by way of their paths through the city, but I don't know if they'll bend even that much after last month.
We need to lay low for a while. Regroup and come up with a new plan to advance the cause.
Hopefully one that doesn't involve attacking innocents.
- A
Kingsway 11, 9:31
Warden Anders,
I have confirmed your fears; the Warden-Commander of Ferelden has accepted the Viscount's invitation to the Grand Tourney, as has Arlessa Hawke, and King Allistair. The Queen will be remaining in Denerim to rule in the King's absence.
If you have need of shelter, my Chantry is nearly complete, and the Deshyr's construction teams have built a hidden room beneath the altar. Either Ser Thrask or Ser Emeric will be able to show you the entrance if I am not present.
Revered Mother Petrice, Kirkwall Alienage
Post-Script; Maeve is very depressed from your refusal to speak of what happened during the Blight. Please reconsider, she needs our support right now.
Kingsway 12, 9:31
Mother Petrice,
Thank you. It is good to know that not all in the Chantry hate mages in these dark days. I may need to take you up on that, the Wardens will certainly try to drag me back if they realize I'm here.
As for your second request, no. I gave her the tale of what happened in the Denerim Alienage, that is as much as I am willing to share.
I do not like speaking of what happened during the Blight, or the circumstances of my Joining. I was deceived by what it meant, and I was abandoned by what friends I had among them in the aftermath of the Blight.
That is what I have told her, and that is all that I will say on the subject.
~ Anders
Kingsway 15, 9:31
To Knight-Commander Meredith Stannord,
from Auxiliary Captain, Night's Watch
Pending the consecration ceremony of the new Chantry on the tenth of Harvestmere, I intend to resign my place in the Alienage Night's Watch. Ser Nethon of the Archer Team will replace me as Captain. Dame Shina will command the Shield-Wall, while Ser Zatris will continue to command the Archers once he has fully recovered from his wounds.
The Viscount and Guard-Captain are aware of my intentions, and will approve so long as you have no objections.
Rest assured that Ser Nethon is fully capable of handling the position, and is in total accord with me on Chantry-Elven relations. He has already established a firm working relationship with Knight-Captain Rutherford, and we are working together on a new, faster means to alert your Order if, when, we find dangerous maleficar loose in the city.
I will remain in an advisory role to both Lady Elown and Ser Nethon so long as I reside in Kirkwall, and shall be ready to take up arms as an Chantry Auxiliary if the situation demands it.
With the utmost respect of your example,
Dame Maeve Anderson, Knight of Kirkwall, Elf of the North
Kingsway 17, 9:31
To Dame Maeve Anderson,
from the Knight-Commander of Kirkwall
Provided that you remain available in that advisory role, and that coordination with this Order does not change, I have no objections to the official change in leadership.
I was informed this morning that your name was entered in the Dueling Competition of the Grand Tourney. I expect that you shall prove yourself worthy of this city, and your status as an ally of this Order. It will not do to have the city's newest Knight be eliminated in the first round of such an event, for all of Thedas to see.
On a more personal note, my squire wishes to ask after the health of yours. The Maker has blessed her with great sympathy for her plight.
Walk in the path of our Blessed Andraste,
~ Knight-Commander Meredith Stannard
Kingsway 18, 9:31
To Knight-Commander Meredith,
from Dame Maeve
I was entered against my knowledge by Deshyr Tethras, who thought my reaction to the news hilarious.
That being said, I am taking it seriously, and training daily with a Rivaini born duelist. She expects me to reach at least the third round of the event at a minimum, though admits I am unlikely to go farther simply because of my small stature.
Please inform squire Trevalyan that squire Fiolya is recovering slowly. If she wishes to help, perhaps you could be convinced to dispatch your squire to the Alienage? My squire is quite talented as an archer, but her swordsmanship is poor to say the least. Perhaps the two might train one another in their respective strengths.
Sincerely,
Maeve, Lady, Knight, Etc.
Kingsway 19, 9:31
To Dame Maeve Anderson,
from the Knight-Commander of Kirkwall
It is pleasing to hear that you are preparing diligently for the event, despite the Deshyr's actions. I shall personally attend the event to witness your skills, and ensure there is no reaction to your status as an Elf.
My squire shall begin arriving in the Alienage every third day, beginning tomorrow. I expect that her archery skills shall improve forthwith.
Walk in the path of our Blessed Andraste,
~ Meredith, Knight-Commander, Etc.
Kingsway 21, 9:31
Buzz,
How in the Maker's holy name did you manage to become pen pals with Meredith?
~ Varric
Kingsway 22, 9:31
Varric,
If you read my private letters again I'm going to tie you to a chair and dismantle Bianca in front of you.
Also, I caught your butler watering down my wine. You will find that all three of your '15 brandies are now missing from that cabinet you locked them in. If I catch him again, than that private stash of Antivan Rum you think is so cleverly hidden is going to vanish on you as well.
~ Maeve
Kingsway 28, 9:31
To the Paragon of Manliness,
Finally got them down to the Hanged Man for drinks again, and Merrill tried to set me up with Maeve. It was the single cutest thing that I think I've ever heard, even from Merrill. She told me how good a first mate Maeve would be, how wonderful of a pirate she would make. Maeve turned the brightest shade of red and couldn't say a thing.
It. Was. Adorable.
I do need a bit of help though. Once she had a few drinks in her, Merrill rolled her shirt to show off her belly again, and convinced Maeve to do the same. Besides being an extremely attractive look for the pair of them, they started drawing more than a few eyes around the Hanged Man.
Might be good to remind the usual crowd that they're not on the menu.
Captain Isabella
Kingsway 29, 9:31
Rivaini,
I'll make sure to get a reminder out there. Any chance you could convince them to not start a new fashion trend? I don't think Elven women need that kind of attention, but I'm not going to be the one to say that out loud.
Also, be careful around Buzz. She's trying to hide it, but she's still as fragile as glass right now. If you even play at courting her like Scowls does she's going to fall head over heels for you, and we both know that's just going to result in broken hearts. Mostly hers.
~ Varric
Harvestmere 1, 9:31
To His Royal Highness, Allistair Theirin, King of Ferelden,
From Viscount Marlowe Dumar of Kirkwall,
It is our enormous pleasure to hear that you have formally accepted our invitation, and we shall receive you with a grand welcome on the twenty-fourth of this month. The events for the Grand Tourney shall begin on the twenty-fifth with the opening ball, and run through to the Jousting Final on the second of Firstfall.
There shall, of course, be a break for the merriment of Satinalia. We shall make no plans on your behalf, so that you may enjoy the holiday however the King wishes.
As for your prior letter, while the Grand Cleric hoped otherwise, we shall honor your request and limit the ceremony honoring the heroes of the Fifth Blight. Perhaps merely a toast during the Grand Ball shall suffice?
Looking forward to your safe arrival,
Viscount Dumar
Harvestmere 2, 9:31
To the Viscount of Kirkwall,
From the Office of the Empress of Orlais,
The Empress is flattered by your invitation, but must decline a personal appearance at the Grand Tourney. She and the Grand Duke are currently engaged in demobilizing the army prepared for the Blight and have no time for such frivolities.
As the court does not wish to be seen snubbing the event, the Madame de Fer shall attend on the Empress' behalf.
Office of the Empress, dictated by Duchess Florianne de Chalons
Harvestmere 3, 9:31
To the most revered Grand Cleric,
from the Knight-Commander of Kirkwall
Not even Dumar could believe this is anything but a deliberate insult to the Free Marches. To send a mage, a glorified court jester, rather than a member of the royal family?
I shall obey your orders to be civil, but should the woman overstep her bounds she will find herself in the Gallows until the Divine personally orders otherwise.
Walk in the path of our Blessed Andraste,
~ Meredith
Harvestmere 5, 9:31
To Knight-Commander Meredith,
from Maeve,
We heard about the Orlesian delegation from Cullen. I talked to Elowen, and we're going to make sure that the Madame de Fer has at least one set of Elven eyes on her at all times.
Do you know how many mages will be in the party from Tevinter? I'm not sure we'll be able to convince any Elf here to get within fifty paces of a 'Vint. Maybe we could convince the Viscount to make them all stay outside of the walls.
Or maybe we could make Madame de Fer sleep in a tent as well. See how well she does outside of court. Perhaps the Maker will bless us with rain the entire Tourney.
Sincerely,
Maeve, titles-titles-titles.
Harvestmere 6, 9:31
To Dame Maeve Anderson,
from the Knight-Commander of Kirkwall
You remain a wellspring of excellent ideas, Dame Maeve. I spoke with the Viscount this morning, and he was in complete agreement of the nature of the insult. When the Orlesian delegation arrives they shall find no available rooms in the Keep, and it has been made clear that no estate shall take them in either.
I breathe far easier knowing that your people are fully prepared to observe the woman on our behalf. You are a credit to all the people of this city. I will ensure that the Lady Elowen has a seat beside me at the tilts.
Do not worry over Tevinter. Their delegation is kept as far from the city as possible by tradition, and will only be allowed within the walls for the opening ball.
Walk in the path of our Blessed Andraste,
~ Meredith, Knight-Commander, Etc
Harvestmere 10, 9:31
To Deshyr Tethras,
From the Office the Viscount,
Per your request, see the following schedule of events for the Grand Tourney.
Harvestmere 25 – Opening Ball, Viscount's Keep
Harvestmere 26 – Archery Competition, Preliminary Tilts
Harvestmere 27 – Dueling Competition, Preliminary Tilts
Harvestmere 28 – Dueling Competition, Preliminary Tilts
Harvestmere 29 – Grand Melee, Sailing Race
Harvestmere 30 – Dueling Finals, Horse Racing & Dressage
Satinalia
Firstfall 01 – Grand Melee Final, Feast of the Melee
Firstfall 02 – The Grand Joust, Feast of the Champion
Dictated by Seneschal Bran Cavin
Harvestmere 11, 9:31
To Bann Trevelyan, from his most honored daughter,
Father,
I am of course pleased that you shall be attending the Grand Tourney in Kirkwall, and that my progress as the Knight-Commander's squire has your approval. I assure you that her compliments are not mere flattery. She is hard, but fair, and I am given no undo privileges.
As to your second letter, yes. I can confirm that the rumors are true; Kirkwall has given knighthoods to four Elves for service to the Chantry and City, and ennobled another as a lesser Baronness. This was not done idly, father. They earned their titles through faith and fire, and all are devout Andrastians.
I would suggest praying on your words. The Baroness Elowen and her Knights enjoy the Grand Cleric's total support, and the favor of the Knight-Commander.
With utmost love, your devoted daughter,
Evelyn Trevelyan
Harvestmere 15, 9:31
Buzz,
Daisy told me why you want to talk to the Ferelden lot so bad. Can't say I approve of you reaching out a legendary witch for help getting home, but I get that you don't have the best options right now. Can't imagine sailing that far, for sure.
I'll invite them to stay at the estate, but only if you ease up on the drinking. And, if you ever do meet the Witch of the Wilds and live to talk about it, I want the entire story.
~ Varric
Harvestmere 16, 9:31
Deshyr Tethras,
I can't say I expected an invitation to stay with someone so famous for the Tourney, but mother would kill me if I declined. If the winds hold, we'll arrive on the twenty-fourth; myself, my brother, my sister, her fiancee, one servant, and one mabari.
Looking forward to meeting an author who thought cave diving with Darkspawn sounded grand,
Marian Hawke, Arlessa of Amaranthine