Chapter 7
Following her conversation with Dorian, Ih'tal recognized the necessity of open communication. She was determined to remove the shroud of secrecy and doubts that had hindered her effectiveness. The questions that plagued her needed answers, yet her purpose was clear—defeating Corypheus demanded her undivided attention.
Her attempts to seek Solas for guidance were a mix of seeking truths for their battle against the magister and satisfying her own curiosity. Though uncertain if his revelations would serve their cause, she couldn't avoid confronting her curiosity.
Before facing the war table's weighty matters, a meeting was in order. Arriving at the diplomat's chamber, she found Josephine engulfed in a mountain of papers. The sight reaffirmed the importance of diplomacy in wartime, even if Ih'tal herself had never been skilled in its art.
As she approached, a playful comment escaped her lips. "One of these days, that pile will tumble on you, and you'll literally be buried in paperwork."
Josephine peered over the sea of documents and returned a warm smile. "Ah, Lady Lavellan, a good day to you. I assure you, I'm nearly finished, and I know you're eager for news from your clan."
The ambassador had been dispatched to investigate Duke Antoine of Wycome, upon pleas for help from Ih'tal's own clan. Those who embraced her after her awakening in this new world had opened their arms, and in doing so, rekindled the hope that goodness persisted amid the ruins. The Elvhen had once wielded power and knowledge but, like many great civilizations, collapsed under the weight of their ambitions.
The False Gods had wreaked havoc, tearing families apart and enslaving their own kin. Ih'tal channeled her power and influence to help those in need, especially the overlooked children. Her sister's presence often diverted their attention, allowing her to openly offer aid. She established sanctuaries and cared for the children, teaching them survival skills and fostering camaraderie.
As she dispatched them into the world, she ensured they had a haven if needed. Her people were her responsibility, and their well-being intertwined with the fate of Thedas.
Eager to proceed, Ih'tal and Josephine entered the war room, where Commander Cullen was engrossed in strategy. The meeting began with Josephine's report on Wycome from Ambassador Guinevere Volant.
Ambassador Montilyet,
Duke Antoine has been a most charming and gracious host, and has made himself a friend, indeed, to the Inquisition. His city is a wonder, and he was quite keen to display some of the improvements he has made recently. Of particular note are the wells, which use a red crystal to purify the water from which all humans in the city drink. Duke Antoine has not yet made these improvements to the wells from which the elves in the alienage drink.
The duke assures me that concerns about some sort of disease affecting his city are wholly overblown, and has quite convinced me that his plans to rid the city of "the rats causing the problem" should be underway quite soon.
I continue to enjoy my visit to Wycome, and I confess that I hope I do not hear the noisy clatter of the Inquisition's armored troops ruining my quiet afternoons. The elves of Clan Lavellan, by contrast, are quiet, like their poor cousins here in Wycome's alienage, and it might be a welcome change to my daily regime to see them in the future.
Yours in haste,
Lady Guinevere Volant
Cullen's reaction was visceral. "HE IS USING WHAT?! We can't let this stand! We should send our forces and—"
Leliana intervened, suggesting caution. "While immediate action is warranted, direct force might not be wise. My scouts can aid the Dalish hunters within the city, focusing on Duke Antoine."
All eyes turned to Ih'tal, and she weighed the advisors' opinions. Josephine's diplomat had advised prudence, and Leliana offered a covert approach. Cullen's reaction resonated with her desire for swift intervention, but her decision had to factor in both caution and efficacy.
"Leliana, send word to your agents and ensure the Dalish hunters have our support." She marked the map with a raven symbol. "Instruct them to notify us immediately, even if it means reaching me outside of scheduled meetings."
As Leliana departed, Ih'tal contemplated the complexities of her role. Balancing immediate threats with overarching goals proved an ongoing challenge—one she was committed to facing head-on.