Arturia is a knight of preparations, vigilance, exceptionally level-headed, and willing to do whatever necessary to make sure all is truly right in the world.
Not many things put the knight at a loss for words at this point honestly. The initial aftermath of pulling the sword out of the stone was grueling, but she endured. Ruling over a kingdom on the verge of collapse was its own challenge, but she rose to meet it. Representing Britain and all her lands on Earth was frustrating at best ranging on a scale from herding horses to spinning straw into a gold like substitute, but she did it with considerable aplomb because, hey, who else was going to back then?
So, of course, when the words were utter by her 'Excalibur', the truly sensible thing to do was dump the now fully conscious sword in the nearest barrel conveniently placed right by her current position, tie that barrel with ropes and have it hanging by the closest window.
Arturia Pendragon: the impeccable Once and Future King of Camelot.
"Wait wait wait! I am telling you the truth!" The sword hollered in protest, his voice partly muffled by the barrel he was forced inside, "Honestly girl, have your senses lost you when you were summoned here?!"
"Perhaps." She agreed casually with no apparent facial expression on her part, "I am, after all, hearing from 'my sword' and currently in the illusion of speaking to it. I must still be very weary from using the Mark to stop the Breach's expansion..."
"I am your Excalibur! Not a fake! And you know that! There's no other sword that could have released your power!"
Arturia held back an eye roll at this obvious farce. Just how foolish did this creature think she is towards a typical deception such as this? "There's no other sword who could speak either, MINE certainly hasn't. Whatever or whoever you are demon, I will allow you a chance to end your trickery and say what you have done to my actual sword."
"Good grief - very well." Arturia raises an eyebrow, questioning if the 'sword' is willing to reveal its true nature, but this is swiftly disregarded when the sword added, "It seems I have to prove to you I am indeed the definite article. Ridiculous but otherwise more compelling than to be dropped unceremoniously out of a random window in an frozen wasteland such as Haven."
From then on, Excalibur rollingly tells the tales of many moments in Arturia's life, her secrets, her actions, her personal experiences. The Knight was very much stunned until she swung the barrel against the stone wall.
It was impossible, inconceivable in fact. The notion that something so unknown could just simply know so much about herself was a thought that she didn't even want to entertain; a life of secrets masking just who and what she has turned her into such an non-transparent woman at this point of existence. Being relayed such truths so easily without a hint of fault in them about her very person unknown to all made the King feel...
...Well, it made her feel inexplicably exposed in a way she's never dealt with in all her years.
"Enough!" The knight commanded, the sword in the barrel stopping in mid-speech at the order the very second it was given, "How did you-"
"Because wherever you were as King, I was there to witness." The holy blade responded, not missing a beat as he went on, "Even if you still do not believe me, will you deny this connection you feel even now?"
Arturia recalls the feeling of retrieving Excalibur, the undeniable connection from wielding the Fae's sword for so long. The way she had wielded it from pure instinct alone; the power that awoke deep in her veins that connected seamlessly to the Red Dragon within her...all so familiar. The blonde gritted her teeth as she knew that she cannot deny any of it at all.
She remained in silence for a moment or two, then she lifts the barrel, untying it once it sat on the ground beside her. She lifts Excalibur out in a guarded manner, still very cautious of what is occurring. Yet, holding the sword again brought immense nostalgia like before; a certain relief from just being able to touch this sword in an perilous world such as Thedas, "Considering the possibility that I have yet to lose my mind...why do you chose to speak now?"
"Your Mark," Excalibur explained before elaborating, "It is a sort of magic beyond the rules of this world, and with it's power to flow through the veins of my wielder and onto myself, who originated from a world far from this realm, it pulsated the life that was within the sword, and thus, brought me awareness and the ability to speak. The point at which it occurred was when you unconsciously combined your attack with power of the Mark to defeat the Pride Demon."
"Then...Are you aware of the Mark's history?"
"I am not. I am only aware of your history after Calibur - as you have already heard. But I believe that the Mark isn't capable of actually bring life to any object, the foreign spirit that is you had somewhat made this anomaly possible."
"I don't quite understand." The King admitted, a feeling she knew she has to force herself to get used to, due to being a newcomer to this world, "What I'm getting is due to the combine power of the Mark and with you originating from our world, strange magic had occurred in which you, my sword, is given a personality?"
"Well, you could be less blunt, but in general, it's possible."
Arturia could do nothing but sigh tiredly at this.
So much has happened even for the King of Knights in such a shockingly short amount of time. It may be more reasonable to say that it has been nothing but strangeness to strangeness for her after the Holy Grail War: a new world that she has to navigate herself towards, the intrusion of demons from completely different domain, this mark of untold and abstruse magic that has attached itself her very being now, her new-not-quite-human body that she has to figure out before anything unpleasant occurs thanks to ignorance, and now her conscious Excalibur who, by the very tone of his newly found voice, will be quite the hand full in the upcoming future.
A month of sleep sounded so pleasant right now. But the King has dealt with difficult, and at times, restless moments of her life even before she gained Britain's throne, albeit this is far more bizarre than she could handle at this very moment but after everything is said and done, she is King, she WILL overcome this...somehow.
Ideally before the giant hole in the sky kills them all.
"Alright..." Arturia began carefully, "I have a now fully conscious sword, what happens next?"
"You are my wielder. It is up to you where we go on from here."
Emerald eyes blinked at the words stated towards their owners. The sheer irony of it, as someone who is once a Servant and King, she accepted the mindset of being the sword, and now here it may be the correct positions and yet it was still somewhat startling.
It wasn't so much what he stated necessarily, but how he said it that caught the Knight off guard. The unhesitant confidence in her was a bit staggering to say the least. To hear the proud faith the scared Last Phantasm still had in her after all they've been through at this point. If he truly remembers the events that have lead the two to their current dilemma; all the mistakes and blunders that he is very much aware she made thanks to her woeful decision making has brought upon. And after all this time and tragic loss, the holy blade still thought of the knight worthy of calling herself it's wielder?
Did...did he really have so much belief in her?
Arturia quietly gathered her thoughts, taking in this info carefully in order to give a proper reply, and then came to a sensible conclusion to this strange occurrence, "...I can't say for certain how the others will react to you. If I am willing to throw you out the very moment I heard you speak, then it's safer to keep your self-awareness between us, less they take you away again, mistaking you for some sort of demon like I did."
"Though my words are worth more than any ones ears other than your very own, I will abide to your command as you are my King." Excalibur assured, the self-importance each word held being quite potent.
Quite the prideful one he is, sounding as such even when including her, as if he had this tone forever. Arturia held back a certain question in mind concerning the sword when she hears footsteps behind her, a soldier in sight, Arturia lowers her sword and faced the coming man who immediately halted and saluted, "My lady. Cassandra wishes to speak with you, it is an urgent matter."
At the word urgent, Arturia eyes narrowed, "Very well, I shall see to her at once. Where may I find her?" Despite her appearance of someone so young, it honestly surprised the soldier of how firm and sovereign she is, it actually made his salute seem as if it needs more work to be put in receiving the destination.
After receiving the location, Arturia nodded in thanks to the soldier and head towards the destination, Excalibur wrapped carefully and strapped closely to her back.
Preferred or not, she will have to deal with the unfortunately added stress to her new lease on life during these uncertain times.
Arturia met with Cassandra down the hall, then informed of the progression since the Inquisition's rebirth, an urgent message is received Arturia determined, and therefore the reason for her calling her. During their walk, Cassandra explains that she will be meeting with three more members-advisors, so to speak.
As they grow near, a vibrant feel had Arturia to glance at her hand, it's haunting green color lighting up as if it was waking from sleep.
"Does it trouble you?"
Arturia looks to Cassandra when the other woman asked.
"Not nearly much as before." The knight answers.
"We take our victories where we can." Arturia nodded.
"I would agree."
"What's important," Cassandra continues, "Is that your Mark is stable, as is the Breach."
Arturia frowns, "It still remains, however, so it may eventually bring terror to all once again."
"You've given us time," Cassandra points out, as she enunciates certain words with the thick German accent her companion has just noticed she was sporting, "And Solas believes a second attempt might seal it - provided the Mark has more power. The same level of power used to open the Breach in the first place. That is not easy to come by."
"I doubt we will be as lucky," Arturia stated. After all, no situation like this ever starts and ends in a simple span of a few days. "But if it could be done, I suppose that is our only hope."
"We could use the optimism," Cassandra responds, "Hold on to it and it may be less stressful." Arturia blinked, she didn't really think she was speaking out of optimism, only facts, but if it would lift the spirits for those who needs it, she will not argue against it.
They reach to an open door leading to a room, upon entering, Arturia is met with the sight of three people, two familiar: Leliana in her usual light chainmail and lavender hood and the blonde man which she came across right after leading the march back at the battlefield in the same armor, over it is a heavy red vest with red and black feathery fur along its seam circling his neck. His eyes are light brown, like a leaf in autumn, and a deep set. A long yet very light scar cuts through his lip off to the right of his face as it veers off before reaching his nose. His serious expression deepens the tired lines of his face. Cullen if she recalled correctly, her assumptions were correct upon Cassandra's reintroduction of the man.
"You've met commander Cullen, leader of the Inquisition forces." Here, Cullen saw Arturia in a much better light and a calmer atmosphere here than out in the field, and he was quite shock to note the youth of Arturia - fifteen at most as Josephine deduced, yet this girl has the air of a soldier with her posture and the sharp edge of her eyes, even for his suspicions against the girl, he can't help but to wonder how someone so young be able to have such an presence. He spoke, "It was only for a short moment. I'm pleased you survived." Arturia simply nods at him.
Cassandra then introduces the woman Arturia never met before in brilliant golden silks and blues of brocade. She has a creamy dark complexion and thick raven hair pulled back loosely on the back of her head. She looks quite soft to touch, like a silk pillow. The only visible skin is her hands under ruffled sleeves and her face. She holds a thin board of parchment with a candle melted into the top and a hole drilled to hold a small blue inkwell, "This is Lady Josephine Montilyet, our ambassador and chief diplomat."
The woman in question tilts her head and a strand of hair falls from her ear settling on her cheek, she raises an interested eyebrow as Arturia politely makes eye contact at the introduction, "You.." she scratches the feather pen in her hand with her thumb, "look even younger up close." Her voice is full and carries what seems to be a rich Spanish accent, "I've heard much, it is a pleasure to meet you."
Josephine had to prevent herself from writing down about the girl before due to very little of her being known. She is young, yet held no fear of any kind. There wasn't even any indication that she is a boisterous character who refused to back down like any other youth of her age group; rather, from the look of her bright emerald eyes, there was this sort of maturity that seems to accompany her. It may be wise to not treat her as a child then, if that is the case.
She shifts her head to look at her parchment but her eyes flash back to Arturia as Cassandra raises her arm toward Leliana.
"And of course you know Sister Leliana." The Seeker motions in a lazy flick of her hand, allowing the last woman to be introduced.
The hooded woman nodded at Arturia as Leliana speaks in her soft-French perhaps?-voice, "My position here involves a degree of..." She pauses before placing her hands behind her back, thinking over the best description of herself and job, until Cassandra puts it bluntly.
"She is our spymaster."
Arturia blinked, "I see."
"Yes. Tactfully put, Cassandra." By the sound of it, Leliana isn't quite pleased to be called as such so blatantly. Arturia nodded to all the people in the room, quite a team of titles she may say.
"Greetings," Arturia formerly said, giving a slight bow of salutation, "I am Arturia Pendragon."
"I mentioned that your Mark needs more power," Cassandra began, "To close the Breach for good."
"Which means we must approach the rebel mages for help." Leliana quickly adds.
Commander Cullen interjects, "And I still disagree," his hands are folded on the hilt of his long sword at his belt. His feathery fur brushes the side of his cheek as he turns his head to face Cassandra and Leliana. "The Templars could serve just as well." There, from where Artuia could see, are subtle lines etched around his eyes reminiscent of a troubled past. Something she could definitely relate to.
Cassandra sighs and her head drops but her eye contact remains with Cullen, "We need power, commander. Enough magic poured into the Mark-"
His right hand leaves his hilt perch as he indicates, "...might destroy us all. Templars could suppress the breach, weaken it so-"
Leliana shifts her weight to her other foot and says firmly, "Pure speculation."
Cullen's voice tightens as he places his hand back on his hilt convinced with his protest, "I was a templar. I know what they're capable of."
"Unfortunately," Josephine steps forward, "Neither group will even speak to us yet. The Chantry has denounced the Inquisition - and you, specifically." The woman turns and points her feather pen towards Arturia.
"...And that provides difficulties." Arturia surmises, to her best guest. In all honesty, she is far more lost then she ever felt before. This discussion between these groups she is not at all familiar made her feel like a confused cub in a foreign environment - metaphorically, as that is exactly the case for Arturia. The only thing familiar were the title mages, but possibly rogue? What are these templars? And just how important is this Chantry even? Important answers she will have to obtain down the long road if she were to get through all this.
"Some are calling you 'Herald of Andraste'," Josephine explains, "And that frightens the Chantry. The remaining clerics has declared it blasphemy, and we heretics for harboring you."
"Chancellor Roderick's doing, I'm sure," Cassandra sighs. Arturia held back a huff, though she isn't entirely at an understanding, what she did capture was that irritable man placing a tough road before them. Did he really not think the giant hole in reality wasn't the biggest priority for all?
"It limits our options," Josephine stated, "Approaching the mages or the templars are out of the question."
Apart from the one Arturia has, but she held her tongue. Asking something that may be common knowledge to this world would only provide even more attention to the knight then what she already has here in Haven, either seen as some divine saint or by Josephine's explaination, a heretic witch. But it would be foolish to go on without knowledge that can otherwise be crucial, so she will have to approach one of the advisors and directly question, though which one should she speak with when the chance is presented?
For now however, she will perceive to get some insight of this world's organization among many, "How much are we to be concern of...the Chantry?" She nearly said "this Chantry", which that would have no doubt have some raised brows towards her direction.
"They wouldn't attack us, only words they can inflict." Cullen answers.
"And so far, it has left an infected wound," Josephine said while Arturia frowns at this. It would seem that the Chantry is not as powerful as she has assumed, but they still have a grasp in which affects them all, were she be less seasoned in such matters, she would call them out as all bark yet not bite. But that would be to take them lightly, and the King of Knights knows well never to take anything so lightly.
"What other options are there?" There had to be a reason for Arturia's arrival other then this info of helped being block even before which help should they go to.
"There is something, something you can do." The knight looks to the spymaster, her lulling way of speaking already has the blonde wanting to do it. The taller woman peers at Arturia from under her delicate red bangs before elaborating on, "A Chantry cleric by the name of Mother Giselle has asked to speak with you. She's not far, and knows those involved far better than I. Her assistance could be invaluable."
"Where may I find her?" The tone of readiness surprised Cullen and Josephine, Cassandra actually finds it less so, having already seen that steadfastness personally.
"In the Hinterlands near Redcliffe, tending to the wounded."
"I will need a map then."
"Eager, aren't you?" Cullen had to say.
"I told you she was a spirited one." Cassandra reminded, much Arturia's withheld surprise. THAT was the impression she giving the others? She really needs to work on her personal image then...
"I have given my word to assist," Arturia reminded undeterred, "And I will do all that I can."
"With that much energy, spare as much as you can to expand the Inquisiton," Cullen advises, "Look for opportunities once you have reach to Mother Giselle."
Josephine nods in agreement, her idle feather shakes as she rapidly writes, "We need agents to extend our reach beyond the Valley, and to have the Herald recruit them, it should provide no trouble. Will you be able?" she questioned.
Ah, yes. Recruits. Arturia is very much reminded of her time as king, where she has picked out certain men among many, their characters weren't always questioned or at all judged, but the knight knows the sight of a capable warrior. But obviously, she will not simply recruit one of pure strength, the people she chose are those who can uphold the code of honor, as it is beyond anything else a knight must carry, amid other important and necessary qualities. This will not be anything new for her. But considering the fact that she is in a whole new world-and thus, a whole new set of rules to bid by- she must become malleable enough for things to come together properly and stably for the long draw out of it all.
Thankfully, she had years and years of exposure to this kind of position to help her get by in the very near future, "I believe I will have no trouble."
"You can't just pick anyone," Cullen spoke, "We're looking for people who are willing to put down their lives for the Inquisition."
"I will be careful," Arturia swore, her eyes meeting the commander's own pair, "I know the difference between those who will fight, and those who stands out of indifference. Rest assure, I shall see to it that you will not find any slackers following when I return."
Her confidence made them curious, how does this adolescent knows of what is to be expected? She may be putting up a brave front, but her words held nothing meaningless, each one being articulate as she said them, and she said them without waver. The girl continues to bring mystery upon herself, and growing.
"In the meantime, let us discuss other options. I will not leave this to the Herald." Cassandra said. The others agreed.
The meeting ends and everyone disbands, though Arturia remained mostly silent - an act so to analyze everything the advisors were discussing. It is accepted between all on who will be accompanying Arturia on her trip to the Hinterlands, Cassandra being the Knight's first pick, and by that woman's recommendation, Varric -who she begrudgingly named- and Solas. They will prove to provide an advantage to whatever trouble they may cross with, and Arturia accepts them, as the woman left to relay the decision to the two invited allies, the knight caught sight of Josephine walking to another way.
A sudden thought came to her. Surely there is no better time than now, before setting off to find this cleric, to know some bits about this Mage-Templar War? In fact, this is the most acceptable course of action; she'll need to be up to date of the events other than the Breach, and Josephine is the first person in sight she can ask without having hardened suspicions towards her beside Cassandra. Cullen and Leliana hid it well, but Arturia did note how their eyes narrowed at her a few times in questioning her.
In concern over her existence to this world, she knows that it may be unavoidable in the future and takes no offence to it. Truthfully, she would call these people inadequate if they avoided the subject of her, and so she must prepare herself to answer honestly, it is not in her character to lie, she's too honest as the King of Knights to get away with it, and it is far below her to even try it in the first place, even if she knew she may sound maddening.
In addition to that, she would really prefer it if the information she wants was as unbiased as possible, so better to get it from than the person whose job was to be as such in all matter of talks?
With those musings in mind, Arturia swiftly went towards the direction of the ambassador.
"Lady Josephine."
The Antivan ambassador stopped at the call, turning her head to the teen approaching her, still holding the feather pen and board with her. "Might I speak with you for a moment?"
What a formal approach. Her parents must be quite strict for her to act so proper when it comes to contracting to appearance. In fact, ever since meeting the young Herald of Andraste, Josephine was impressed at how composed she was despite being in a position where even the Antivan may feel nervous. The woman was curious to know how this girl maintained this act, had she been given a task of responsibilities before? That would imply for her to be the oldest sibling as Cassandra had mentioned this Kay character along with giving the impression of her parents to not be around as much, although Josephine highly doubts that Arturia has ever been given a position as paramount as being the personal messenger of the Marker's bride, so it was hard to imagine as such occurring for the youthful girl.
"I have some time," Josephine answered, "I was just heading to my office, come with me." She held her pen at ready when Arturia comes to her side, both females walk down the hall, "What can I help you with?" Perhaps this girl is actually feeling much more inside than she is showing? Teenagers did have a tendency to hide they're true feelings most of the time during this part of the age cycle in life.
Arturia's face slightly scrunches in thought, it seems she has plenty of questions, but is internally debating on which one must be asked, "I wish to discuss the topic of the what was destroyed before the appearance of the Breach."
"The Conclave. A tragedy," Josephine comments, giving an sorrowful sigh, "And a heavy impact to everything that the Divine had fought for." She looks down to her board, reminding herself of what must be done, "Exactly what the enemy wanted. There's no promise that even if we find our instigator that it will repair and redo long years of putting an end to this long rivalry."
"And this rivalry was between what you mention before, the Mages and Templars? Has there always been such tension between these two groups?"
Josephine looks up from her board, blinking at the question proposed to her.
"...Are you saying that you didn't know that the Conclave was for putting an end to the Mage-Templar War?"
To her credit, Arturia didn't change her expression, shaking her head and causing that single strand of blonde hair sticking out of her head to rattle a bit, "I know that much. I am just ignorant about this whole war between the two groups, having just recently heard of it in fact."
Josephine adopted a thoughtful look on her face, "Cassandra did say you are from far away...but it would seem we underestimated just how far."
After all, this was a war that broke out all across Thedas since 9:37. So one would naturally assume that anybody updated within current times did hear of it. Such an climatic event did have the effect of reaching all ears all around in the end, no matter how ignorant one could be these days.
However, it seems this would not be the case for the young girl before her. Leliana, Left Hand of the Divine and ever-so diligent as the title she obtained would suggest, has made sure to use all her resources to see if there was any background that could be found on the Herald, leaving no nook and cranny unchecked in the process. However, even a master of the shadows and secrets on her level couldn't find any useful detail of Arturia that could aid them in knowing this particular enigma. The diplomat very much remembers how very unusually close her friend was to tearing off her red hair with her bear hands; the frustration of her natural domain being unable to produce the results she needed very quite got to her as the reason for her failure slept over the three days.
Maybe the blonde lived in an area that hasn't HAD to deal with the repercussions of the war? But even if that were the case, wouldn't her parents, or at least her guardians, tell her about what was happening? Perhaps the latter willfully kept the girl ignorant of the whole event in order to shield her from such terrible bloodshed as much as possible?
'If that truly is the case, then I wouldn't blame them for taking such an action.' Josephine thought grimly, understanding why any parent wouldn't want their child involved in such affairs in anyway whatsoever.
"Would you be willing to educate me on this matter then?" Arturia politely requested, snapping the diplomat away from her thoughts.
"Why, of course! We don't want you to feel uninformed in times such as these." Josephine said, giving an understanding smile to the girl at her side, very much accepting the task at hand, "A woman of my position should be more than capable of giving the information you need."
"I'm curious to know what brought you to your position in the first place, if I may ask?"
By this question, Josephine had come to a conclusion: Arturia is a person who is among complete strangers, though she will help, it may not be the same as to trust anyone of them apart from Cassandra. That being said, the blonde girl seems to wish to know more about the people around her. Obviously, being titled as Herald is far too much of a stress, Josephine theorizes that she will try to act in order to become familiar with everyone here as a response to the given duty. If that is so, the diplomat will react accordingly, lessen the burden if she can.
"Sister Leliana approached me, we've been acquainted for some time."
"Sister Leliana? She never struck me as the religious sort." Arturia admits. Josephine can somewhat understand that, for a spymaster, one wouldn't think anyone who holds that title to pray. To Josephine's ears, it almost sounds as if Arturia thought Leliana as something akin to a thief, the bard's work may appear so. It would seem that the Herald's attempt to know people are much more needed than Josephine would have ever guessed.
"I can imagine the surprise. As I was when she offered me this position, and as she has promised, being a diplomat has its fair share of...interesting encounters." Adding Arturia to that list was an definite certainty.
"Such as?"
"I was royally appointed as Court ambassador for some years, from Antiva to Orlais. I've met many nobles of Thedas, and those that I am not familiar with, I know by reputation."
Arturia's brows rose. Honestly, it surprised Josephine that she was able to comprehend what she answered, "The Inquisition has itself a valuable ally. I am actually now looking forward to working with you."
Pleased to have herself somewhat familiar with the girl, the Antivan responds, "Thank you. I hope I will prove as so, the politics in Thedas has become...agitated as of late. My only wish is to guide us to smoother grounds." The door to her office in sight, she will have to cut this conversation short, but hopefully she has done what she can for the young Herald, "Please excuse me. I'm afraid I have much work that needs to be done." Arturia stops as Josephine approaches the door.
"Very well, though if I may spare one last-" The Antivan had only just open the door, and to her small surprise, someone was waiting in her office. Arturia stops short at the appearance of the marquis.
"Lady Josephine." Greeted the man.
Josephine acknowledged him, "To what do I owe this visit?"
"I think you know well."
Yes, for the man who supposedly owns Haven, Josephine already predicts what he will say. She steps further into her office, might as well humor him or herself, "Surely you wouldn't even think to go against the Divine's last words?"
"The Inquisition cannot remain here, you can't prove that this was founded on Justinia's orders."
The Marquis briefly acknowledges Arturia before paying attention to Josephine when she responds, "This is an inopportune time Marquis, more of the faithful continues to flock here. But allow me to introduce to you someone first," she steps aside, on cue, Arturia moves forward without fear even with a stranger in sight. "The brave soul who risked her life to slow the magic of the Breach."
"Her?" DuRellion didn't even bother to hide his disbelief.
Josephine spoke to Arturia, "Lady Pendragon, this is Marquis DuRellion. One of Divine Justinia's most supporting allies."
"And the rightful owner of Haven." Added the landowner, "This Inquisition is not part of the beneficiary of this arrangement."
Arturia was surprised, "I wasn't aware that Haven was owned by someone."
"My wife, Lady Machen of Denerim, has claim to Haven by ancient treaty with the monarchs of Fereldan. We were honored to lend its use to Divine Justinia. She is...She was a woman of supreme merit. I will not let an upstart order remain on her holy grounds."
A single eyebrow of Arturia's rose, "Have I mistaken hearing that the Inquisition was founded by the Left and Right Hands of the Divine?"
"I see no records of such from Sister Leliana or the Seeker that prove Justinia's approval for the Inquisition."
An idea came to Josephine, "If you won't take her by her word, then perhaps a duel ought to be arranged."
"What?"
"It is a matter of honor," Josephine explains, "Perhaps the Seeker may have time," she eyes Arturia, "Or, if the Herald is willing, you may face her yourself." Marquis looks at Josephine and her odd choice of words.
"That will be no trouble." Even Josephine did not expect Arturia's unhesitant agreement, "Will there be swords provided, or is it allowed for use of my own?"
"It can be done either way."
Though, having a holy sword above any other would most likely lock in any match encountered, ridiculously one sided as it may be.
"Then it would only be fair for the right armor to fit for him, If he hasn't had one already."
"I will set the arrangements then, shall tonight be most suitable?"
"It will, but I understand that this matter is rather important. There is still time before I depart, perhaps somewhere between the next hour or so?"
"That is certainly possible."
Josephine narrowly avoided biting her lip in amusement as Marquis looked one at a time at the females and their quick planning to arrange this duel that is simply bluff. The Antivan knows Marquis to only be here with his words, and he would not go so far as to potentially get killed for it. Even if it is up against a fifteen year old girl, this is the same girl that survived against countless demons from beyond the Veil, and halted the Breach's expansion. Not to mention she is already known as a fact to be a very well-trained swordsman.
With the addition to the girl's lack of nervousness, the Marquis stepped back, "N-No. No…Perhaps my reaction to the Inquisition's presence was somewhat hasty." He sighed, and faces away from the two.
"We face a dark time, your Grace. Divine Justinia would not want her passing to divide us. She would, in fact, trust us to forge new alliances to the benefit of all, no matter how strange they might seem."
Marquis was quiet for only a short moment, "I'll think on it, Lady Montilyet. The Inquisition might stay in the meanwhile." He then leaves the office.
Arturia and Josephine watches him go and far enough for the blonde swordsman to speak, "Does he actually hold ownership to this place?"
"His Grace's position is not so strong as he presents it. Despite their Ferelden relations, the DuRellions are Orlesian. If the Marquis wishes to claim Haven, Empress Celene must negotiate with Ferelden on his behalf. Her current concerns are a bit larger than minor property disputes." She goes to her desk, "I must say, you were rather good." Arturia looks to her at the complement given, "I could not have given a more convincing mask to scare him off like that."
The Antivan sat down as the girl blankly stares at her.
"...You were bluffing."
Josephine stilled, looking up at the Herald.
"...You were not?"
A moment of silence.
It was a few seconds that honestly felt like a few hours before Arturia clears her throat in an embarrassed cough, "Anyway, what I had wanted to ask is if we could perhaps schedule the meeting for sooner than later as there is something else I wish to discuss, but I have already taken much of your time."
The Antivan slowly nodded, "Of course. I may inform you of my free time when you return from meeting with Mother Giselle."
With that, Arturia nodded a farewell at her and then leaves the room. Upon her departure, Josephine grabs her board and written down something in topic of the young Herald, noting her forward nature, and lacking sense of humor.
What a strange girl.
A very strange yet honest girl.
Josephine only felt pity to what responsibilities this girl may have had not as Herald as there certainly must have been something in her life to have her act so close to an adult.
"Just who are you Arturia?"
"Blessed are the Peacekeepers. The Champions of Just. Blessed are the Righteous, the Light in the Shadows."
Knelt on one knee and her hands joined together, this is what Leliana prayed from inside the tent as the sounds of soldiers and other workers are outside.
"In their blood, the Maker's Will is written." She frowned, "Is that what you want from us? Blood? To die so that your will is done?"
Footsteps entered the tent, Leliana need only to incline her head, seeing the small feet, to know who it was. The girl of a blonde ponytail, in her bland attire. Yet still, she would have commanded attention; able to stand out in an air of maturity and depth that amazes anyone. Her presence was such that she instantly became the focus of any space she was in.
For a woman who has many secrets, it slightly terrified her to know nothing about this girl that seemingly came from nowhere.
For Leliana, she was as amazed as everyone else who was there in battle against the Pride Demon. When word of so many deaths including Divine Justinia's end reached her, she was appalled. Justinia was a follower of the Maker, she made sacrifices, she wanted peace, when all that she has done was in favor for the Maker...why was she not saved? Why would the Maker's own faithful child be murdered among so many others? This horrific event shook her faith greatly...
...Until Arturia came to the picture. Was it possible, in response to the deaths of many including Justinia, that the Maker has sent this person? Curious she was as it became clear that the knight's existence was some sort of message from the divine upon witnessing that transformation and her holy sword. Yet why send a savior if not save the person? It just wouldn't satisfy her with that way of act.
Either way, that holy sword with a power so great and the girl so mysterious that her hidden abilities could only be unlock by holding her weapon, it is as if the two are destined for each other, even following the same coloring schemes of blue and gold. Events like this eases her shaken faith, easing, not stopping. It just seems so unfair and incomprehensible for the response of so many lives lost, the Maker sent but one, but perhaps by volume that is enough? She only wish for more though, even if what she saw was grand.
'Is sending a child your only response to all this, along with death as your blessing?' She added in thoughts, "You speak for Andraste, no?" The spymaster began, "What does the Maker's prophet have to say about all of this? What's his game?"
The blonde youth did not break eye-contact, her eyes slightly narrowed, "I cannot speak for Andraste, more less that I would see this as some game." She sounded quite serious, it only pushed further Leliana's intrigue in the mystery of Arturia.
"Do you see the sky? What about the temple ruins? The bones lying in the dust?"
The girl's eyes now hardened, not out of anger, she responds, "I've seen more, as any war."
"So you have mentioned." Leliana indeed heard the girl's tone, that this youth knows what is being spoken here, and not a speck of sickness nor hindrance in her eyes. It must have been a fierce battle, long-time she had to guess for this girl to be so accustomed to it, "Then even you wouldn't call this right. Regardless in supporting the Divine or not."
Arturia shortly breathed in, quickly, it almost seem to be holding back a snort, "No war is without casualties, true that while demons and other unknowns are added to this, is it really different?"
Leliana was surprise to hear that, though she knew well to actually reveal so, "But for so many innocent lives - the faithful murdered where the holiest of holy once stood. How could the Maker willed this, if it is not a game but a cruel joke."
Now the girl's eyes softened, she only took but a few seconds to replay, "I do not hold the answers you require. I am only as myself, and though I agreed to be Herald, I do not represent anyone, or anything else." A shone of surprise flashed through the girl's eyes the moment she spoke those words, Leliana was curious to know what had took her off-guard, the girl closed her eyes once and her previous impression returns, "You would also have a better chance to ask someone else who is a follower of the Maker."
"You are lucky to not be so. He asks a lot." The spymaster envied.
"...Does he?"
At the girl's question, Leliana explains, "The Chantry teaches us that the Maker abandoned us. He demands repentance for our sins." Leliana stands, showing to be a few foot taller than the girl, and yet somehow, Leliana doesn't feel to be talking to the young teen, "He demands it all. Our lives. Our deaths. Justinia gave him everything, and he let her die!"
Arturia remained listening as Leliana walked to the openway of the tent, looking up to the building. "If the Maker doesn't intervene to save the best of his Servants," the woman continues, "What good is he?"
Arturia remained listening.
"I used to believe I was chosen, just as some say you are. I thought I was fulfilling his purpose for me, working with the Divine, helping people." Sadness filled her heart before mixing it with resentment, "But now she's dead. It was all for nothing. Serving the Maker meant nothing."
Leliana inhaled deeply, and faces Arturia.
"Forgive me. This is my burden. I regret to let you even see me like this." She slowly turns to her, "A moment of weakness. It won't happen again. There is much to be done after all. Excuse me." Leliana dismisses the Maker's supposed chosen, she needs to recuperate herself.
After a moment, Arturia spoke, "I've witness many people who dealt with troubles like yours. It is by no fault of yours, nor can it be helped. It is admirable to do as much as you have, but to do out of obligation will mean little."
Leliana brows furrowed, but she listens, "It is a choice that anyone must bear, expecting when encountering such disasters. I knew not of Justinia personally, but I know that nobody can be safe from anything unexpected. Be it fate or untimely. In the end however, to continue would mean not to yield to this world, and to do it out of your own terms, and to still act would mean to bring justice to those responsible for the loss of lives."
She turns to leave, but before she says, "I don't believe that blaming will do much. If you choose to act, then do so without such supposition in your heart."
Even though the teen's back was turned and the noise outside was vibrant, she still caught the farewell words from the Herald:"The world owes no one nothing. Never act like it does."
Then she leaves.
Leliana couldn't help but to feel somewhat embarrassed that she had to be supported by a teen girl, and yet nonetheless, uplifted by her words. Where in Thedas did this girl gain this wisdom and understanding? From the very sound of things, it was from personal experience where this girl has come from. How in the years as she appears to be ever find it?
Perhaps the Maker had made a choice much more sensible than Leliana could ever realize.
"You there! There's a shield in your hand. Block with it. If this man was your enemy, you would be dead. Lieutenant, don't hold back. They need to be ready for a real fight, not a practice one." Cullen orders another man, with a crowd of soldiers-in-training in front of him. The lieutenant obliged and with a nod, leaving to pick up the training. A real progression of new recruits is an improvement despite clear losses during battle, Cullen only hopes that it will continue to be so, but every dull blade must be sharpen, otherwise they'll only be throwing people meant to die without expecting affect.
He wasn't sure though, how this many recruits had come, surely prompted because of a great woman has been murdered along with others, but at moments as far as his ears can reach, curiosity concerning this famed blonde that is rumored to glow in the Maker's blessing, which formed into armor, and a sword the shine brighter than any gold in Thedas, as bright as the girl who left this impression. Cullen is sure that this is only a rumor stretched into exaggeration, but after relaying these exact description to Cassandra, her response was that it was not that entirely off.
Cullen is suspicious of Arturia, but he cannot deny her efforts and the results of it, true there were consequences, as the Chantry denounced the knight as a heretic, practically calling for her to be burn at the stake, for the accusations of her related to the Conclave's destruction, as well as out of fear from hearing her actions. He was taken aback upon the description of the battle against a Pride Demon. This one little girl able to fend off against that beast? It sounds so absurd yet the claims were sounded as if they were true. In truth, if this girl really holds that power, than he is relieved she is on their side, at least, until if confirmed so.
He is not entirely convinced, what of her family say after all? Her father and this brother Kay that Cassandra has told Arturia mentions? Frankly, he's quite sure that the girl would have broken ties from the Inquisition soon so to reconnect with this family of hers. Not only has she yet to bring it up, but she doesn't seem to be deterred in the slightest. She acted as an adult would, somehow comprehending quickly of these heavy responsibilities. Cullen would admit to be guilty for her, and true she has a questioning gaze upon her, but it wasn't as if it was fearful confusion; it was simply like a aloof person annoyed at what she has yet to gain.
It was a sight that seemed so distant in experience that Cullen wonders what this girl had been through, especially given word of her bravery and a stoic expression upon looking at the dead.
Speaking of the girl with many wonders, Arturia came in his sight, drawing closer to him but she was paying attention to the recruits, "I see you have gain new men." She said, noticing him and the drill before her.
"Locals and pilgrims, some from Haven." Cullen answered, "Though, not all of them has made the entrance quite like you had."
Arturia stood beside him, a few feet shorter than him, "I can understand their surprise."
A vague statement, but Cullen knew, with her confusion at being locked up in the first place. He'd had gain some theories behind her story, seeing how genuine Cassandra's defense of this girl to be. Perhaps it was a cause of a temporary amnesia and the girl had mistaken where was, the Breach's blast and it's lingering effect is enough to traumatize anyone?
A moment of silence between them, and Cullen shifted at the growing silence. Should he be as keen as Arturia is, he would have noted that she too is growing a bit frustrated but not at him, to herself, with an agenda he does not know yet. The sounds of the trainees efforts did not do anything to fill this void of awkwardness.
Well...he IS curious to know who this Arturia Pendragon is, but a bond of trust has to be put up first, best to give out something about himself that he can relate to this teen who obviously must feel so strange about her circumstances.
"I was recruited-"
"How long have you-"
They stopped, and with a few stutters, Cullen cleared his throat while Arturia looked even more frustrated with herself, "Forgive me-"
She beat him to it, "I did not mean to interrupt."
He couldn't help but to let out a short chuckle at seeing a sheepish look peak through her bravado face, "That's quite alright. You are still adjusting. I be willing to answer whatever you have in mind."
"In that case, what were you about to say?"
She's seems quite ashamed, wishing to make it up to him by letting him go first. Well he can hardly compete with that since she has taken his words, so he responded, "I was going to say that, I too, was recruited to the Inquisition at Kirkwall." He frowns at the next coming memory, "I was there during the mage uprising - I saw firsthand the devastation it caused."
A new man came in, "Sir!"
He had a clipboard in hand, Cullen accepts it and writes down, but does so as he continues to talk with Arturia. "Cassandra sought a solution. When she offered me a position, I left the Templar Order to join her cause. Now it seems we face something far worse." He returns the clipboard to the man and faces Arturia again, "The Chantry lost control of both the Mages and Templars. Now they argue over a new Divine while the Breach remains."
Arturia's eyes narrows, glancing at the sky.
"The Inquisition can act when the Chantry cannot. Our followers would be a part of that. There's so much we can-" He was carrying on, he stopped himself with a shake of his head, "Forgive me. I doubt you came for a lecture."
Arturia shook her head, "A lecture? You show only enthusiasm, it is a prominent reaction at times like this. The Inquisition and it's people surely needs it. As will I too, work at my best to assist."
Cullen bowed his head slightly, appreciatively, "You've done much already, that I can assure. Let's just hope there will be enough time to spare. There's only so much to do in these coming days." Arturia nodded in agreement. It was odd to Cullen, to speak with a fifteen year old girl on equal grounds.
"I hope to ask of something else from you."
"Yes?"
"This place where you were recruited, Kirkwall. You witness this uprising, up close?"
Cullen stiffened.
Mentally, he is begging not to discuss any further.
"How did it come to be?"
Cullen's eyes avert as dark memories rose from the depths of his mind, he could not keep himself from cringing, grinding his teeth as the terrible event slowly digs up from it's burial.
He was surprised to feel a hand to his arm, more so that it is Arturia's. She looked off-guard, and Cullen cannot blame her. He cursed at his inability to hide his emotions better and bring worry; he's in a position where he cannot show weakness.
"I-I'm sorry, I..." Cullen began, there wasn't any good excuse he can use, but a longer look at the girl, and something unexpected occur.
Her eyes softened with empathy.
"Forget my words. You do not have to answer right now, this is only out of curiosity." She removes her hand, "Let us save that for another time, whenever you feel it right." She smiled politely, "There is much to be done, I understand."
Understanding, that was what her eyes gave off.
"Commander!" Cullen regain his senses, partially thanks to Arturia's words, and looks to the approaching man, "That we do." Cullen half-heartedly muses. Arturia nodded to him and leaves, she left no indication of ever being curious to what had disturbed Cullen, and for that he is very grateful. He half-listens to the soldier bringing him news, the other half of his mind thought back to what he saw in the girl's eyes.
It was a level of understanding that can be considered, relatable. How so can a girl ever know the feeling?
He didn't want to think too much of it, for it would actually be a very sad thought, and there is too much work ahead.
A strong swing of her sword dug deep into the dummy's shoulder, another strike across the chest.
The loss of lives cause by the Breach still haunts her, though she preferably likes to keep it hidden, she refuses to allow the enemy get to her far beyond her anger, utter sorrow is what she will not allow to overcome her...no how much she missed Galyan.
The thought of him made Cassandra's heart tighten in pain.
She would be lying to herself if she said his death still didn't affect her because that would imply what they had wasn't meaningful; that there was no true love between them because there was. Just three days after Regalyan's death, and she still felt how fresh and raw the wound in her heart is. The hole threatening to consume her whole being as she kept mourning her lost love.
The Seeker clenched her eyes in an effort to stop the tears from flowing.
It just wasn't fair...they were happy. They, HAPPY together, and someone stole him away from her.
Cassandra reopens her eyes, the sorrow overtaken by burning fury. The Seeker longed to lash out in righteous anger, to pummel the monster's face in, and eliminate the threat who stole so much life, including one that was so intertwined with her's .
Someone out there is responsible for this, and Cassandra will keep standing strong so to find the culprit. She imagines said culprit in front of her, and she makes a much stronger strike across the neck, cutting off the head of the wooden dummy.
At her final strike, she saw Arturia coming, with a disgruntled grunt but nodding in acknowledgement to the girl, she prepares to continue attacking the obviously defeated dummy.
"Good form." Arturia comments. The Seeker could feel her jade eyes scanning over her entire form, "And an impressive blow. But, you seem to lack focus, something is troubling you." The girl nearly shared the same eyes as the woman's own trainer, Arturia must certainly be talented to know what she is talking about and to be correct.
"Is it that obvious?" Cassandra knows this, but she must keep training for anymore unexpected events can occur, Maker knows when, "What would your father say if he caught you like this?"
A moment of thought for Arturia to respond, "He would confront me and have me tell whatever is in my mind." Her mouth formed into a small smile of nostalgia, "He always did help me to take control of my emotions rather then allow myself to be driven by them."
The better solution, a moment of distraction in the battlefield will cost a life. Taking her words as somewhat an offer to listen, Cassandra sighs.
"I don't feel discouraged talking against Rodrick...but I am wondering if I have done the right thing. What I have set in motion here could destroy everything I revered my whole life. One day, they might write about me as a traitor, a madwoman, a fool. And they may be right."
"You stood for what you believe in, that much I can tell." Arturia sounded her approval in Cassandra's action.
"Assuring, but whatever comes next may not go in our favor." She steps back and rests from her training, "I believe you are innocent," she looks to Arturia, "I also believe there is more than we know is happening, and that there are people who don't care. They will stay in the fire and complain it is hot."
"I have no objections to that." Arturia stated. "My father would often teach me that, if there is something to improve or remedy, wasting time would only worsened the state of anything. I must agree with him."
"Our trainers are alike." As is herself and Arturia,"'Cassandra you are too brash,' mine said, 'You must think before you act.' I see what must be done and I do it! I see no point in running around in circles like a dog chasing its tail." But a thought comes to her, reminding of their first meeting immediately dowsed her passion, "But I misjudged you in the beginning, did I not? I thought the answer was before me, clear as day. I cannot afford to be so careless again."
Arturia shook her head, a sign of sparing no mind what had happened between them, "I know for a fact that I would have reacted similar, were I in a different position."
'I doubt it.' The Seeker bitterly thought, her dead lover coming to mind. Shaking her head to rid herself of that topic for the moment, she continued on with the conversation.
"I know that I was brash." Cassandra apologizes. It startled Cassandra how trusting this girl named Arturia is, not only trusting, but even she would agree the similarities no matter how subtle, and therefore understanding is clear between them already. Arturia, however, seems to do a better job than Cassandra. She would like to know how, ironic, an older woman coming to a child for advise.
"After everything that has happened," Arturia said, "I would understand the reaction. You sought for answers, which unfortunately I have none." A short pause, "Yet here I am, I still do not know in concern of myself and how I came into all this. I wish to gain some answers in due time."
"...People say that the Maker has sent you." Cassandra may call herself one of those people, but the Maker works in mysterious ways that are too much to distinguish between miracle and chance.
Arturia looks to Cassandra, "Do you think so?" No notable sound in her tone.
"I believe you came for a reason, that much I can offer." Cassandra walks pass Arturia, but stops when a question came to mind, she turns to her, "Do you...believe in the Maker, that he has sent you here?"
A moment of silence, the girl considers her words, then expresses them, "I don't know, but whatever has sent me here, I certainly couldn't abide during all this chaos."
A knight in shining armor indeed, Varric would eat this up, "...For that, we are grateful." Cassandra leaves the girl.
The girl who made the wound in her heart, even if a little, heal.
Taking in the warmth of the campfire, Varric muses in complaints that this is the closest comfort he's going to get at a time crises - not to say he would be willing to go back to the city life anytime soon, not with all this happening anyway.
On a side note, other than being in the Inquisition to help with the fight, he's in thoughts over a new book he has plans due to an inspiration he has gain, all thanks to a certain golden hair girl with an even more golden sword.
With all that shine, Varric may dub her as "Goldie", but with all the fierce regal she actually has makes the name "Lioness" fit better. Being young-looking though, he might call her "Lion's Cub". Holding up honor to a high standard, "Knightress" is a given, but so is "Pony Tail".
It's a work in progress, he's sure he'll have a name soon depending how long this girl stays. Speaking of her, the Herald has just finish talking with the Seeker, probably heading back to the house and get ready for the quest they're about to start on.
Varric has seen twists in many stories, and due to his own experiences, he knows that this "girl" is more than how she appears to be. He can't pinpoint exactly what she is, but there's definitely a sense of 'I saw more than how I look to have lived'.
She saw him, and with the help of his inviting gesture, the girl hesitates before walking towards him. "Varric." She greeted, seeing if even her way of speaking isn't exactly normal for a girl around her age, just the way she sounds it doesn't make her look or act any younger.
"So, now that Cassandra's out of earshot, are you holding up alright?" He asked, regardless of how old she really is or what she faced, behind that brave mask Varric could see someone still trying to adjust, lost but keeps holding on. Everyone seems to be convinced that this brave savior of theirs is invulnerable, sure she's got durability in spirit, but she still took damage, she's still someone who needs to be taught how to tie the ropes around here, she's foreign as far as he has heard, not to mention other things she's dealt with.
"I mean, you go from being the most wanted criminal in Thedas to joining the faithful." Varric's surprised she hasn't denied this quest, or sleep for the entire week than just three days after fighting for her life against demons, "Most people would have spread that over more than day."
A hint of agreement flashed before her eyes before closing them, and returning to her controlled expression-now that's not healthy one bit, "I've been asked for assistance, I haven't heard how many have died, but I wish to act accordingly so no more will."
"You can call that dedication, but push yourself too much and you'll only help as much as yourself." Varric has met people like Arturia, a part of her is like Cassandra, stubborn, yet another part seems like she's by herself, hopefully in time she'll break out of this imposing shell she's built herself to be. He added before she can respond, "For days now, we've been staring at the Breach, watching demons and Maker-knows-what fall out of it, 'bad for morale' would be an understatement. I still can't believe anyone was in there and lived. Then again, you did say you came at a bad time, a bad time which led to you being alive, you might have avoided the heavier blow."
"...That could be." Arturia said, with slight narrowing of her eyes. "I still remain where I stand about what I said, the sooner we close the Breach, the less the account of lives will be lost."
"If it can be sealed. You might want to consider running at the first opportunity. I've written enough tragedies to recognize where this is going. Heroes are everywhere. I've seen that. But the hole in the sky? That's beyond heroes. We're going to need a miracle."
Looks like he may have hit a nerve, the stoicism broke, disapproval clear as the chaotic sky, "As dark and unknown all this is, staying put and hoping - though I will not fault a few to decide that if they cannot do anything else, I was under the impression that the Inquisition's purpose is to fight for order. Yes I may die, but what good will do if I went? I have nowhere to-" she flinched, stopping herself and looking away.
"Don't stop now." Arturia met Varric's eyes, "If you want to keep the dedication, let things get off of your chest. You'll feel better, I guarantee it." He pats the ground, the girl once again hesitates, then reluctantly sat beside him. "You don't have a home?"
She takes a moment, "Not anymore."
"Family?"
"Gone. Nothing to do with the Conclave's destruction."
Ouch.
"But even if I had a home," The girl continues, "and the people I cared were alive, I still couldn't leave. Not after I given my word."
"Honor-bound, that kind of thing."
It was inspirational in a way; that a simple promise, even at the face at this much destruction, she'll continue to keep it without question. There are two sides Varric would call that, admirable and a bit foolish.
But then again, she has nothing except the sword on her back.
"Good men and women, someone's loved ones, died at the Conclave. We have people here who lost them. They're here for those they knew, and you're here out of duty. I have got to say, you do make a good central character, so long as someone's good at writing you down."
Arturia decides to change topic, "You are a writer?"
Varric decides to accept that, and boastfully answers, "The best there is, although I guess not so famous if you haven't heard of me."
"What books have you written?"
Varric was about to answer, but stops shortly, he makes a twist of his body and grabs his bag he has to his side, "Hold on." Digging into the parcel, he pulls out his most famous book, and hands it to Arturia, "Why don't you find out? This is one of my best one, but I could use a non-bias view of my work."
Arturia observes the book in front of her, and accepts it, "Thank you. With any spare time, I shall read it."
"I won't be surprise if you can't as much, being called a Herald." He pats her shoulder, "Just so you know, if you ever have anything else in mind, come talk to me. I'll make as good company as you can guess."
Her previous disapproval of Varric had vanished, looking over the book another time, she stands up, "Thank you, Varric. I'll meet you again at the start of our departure."
He waves at her as she walks away. Not a bad person, but a person whose got some flaws that needs to be worked on. However, during their talk, Varric has gain a new name he can call the knight of golden wonder: Pancakes.
It was an expected sight, humans working hard, constant talk about the appearance of Arturia Pendragon, their 'savior', the Maker's sent. He would have called it silly how overwhelming the human's reactions are - as it is in human's nature, they could not help it. He too was surprised, but doesn't indulge on the idea of Arturia to truly be something of divine, though they are somewhat correct that she's certainly isn't just human.
It was however predictable that they look to any source of comfort. Age-appearance aside, Arturia is the perfect candidate, forgetting that she has a state of mind as fragile as any of them, he is impressed how she's managed to hold onto herself, though how long would that last? And of course, they see her as the bringer of justice, and all the good to slay all the bad. Such simplicity. Lives are lost certainly, but to be quick to judge and forget the others rights would be just as criminal, there's simple no such thing as black and white in the reality they all live in.
Perhaps he's so convinced in this to lessen the guilt.
He's not wrong about the amount of pressure being put onto the knight. No matter how strong, surely letting her rest if for another day would provide a much more better result, yet from what he's heard - words travel far and quickly - Arturia is offering no complaints, quite a spirited one, and a very curious being indeed.
Said being is coming closer to the house which is now hers, and where Solas stands beside, curiosity conquered his psyche, to know more about this girl who shares the name as King Arthur, a story he has found in the Fade far before the occurrence of the Breach. A story no one in this world has ever known. An interesting tale, he appreciated the magic it has involved, but the story itself could not provide sufficient answers for the actual magic Arturia herself possesses, and what's more interesting, King Arthur is a male, yet Solas wouldn't be quick to call it a coincidence even if different genders were at play.
He likes to keep this info to himself in the meantime however, and study the girl more up close, note any behavior of hers that are not pressured by battle.
"The Chosen of Andraste." Solas began when Arturia came close, "A blessed hero sent to save us all."
A note of discomfort twitched the corner of her eyes, that doesn't seem to be a sign of humbleness. Well, at least she's not arrogant.
"I wouldn't go so far to call myself that, however, I do intend to keep my word." It sounds as if she's been repeating a statement like this, and quite frankly, her voice sounds a little sore.
"You are noble indeed. I was afraid that this age would not have a single soul of such character." Foreign or not, and that's saying very much,"I've journeyed deep into the Fade in ancient ruins and battlefields to see the dreams of lost civilizations. I've watched hosts of spirits clash to reenact the bloody past in ancient wars both famous and forgotten."
"The Fade?"
Solas is actually quite glad for someone to ask him that, "The humans call it The Beyond, it is a realm of the spirits. I occasionally have a talk with them. Not everyone could be so accommodated with this."
Her eyes widen, "You can go into this...Fade, and return?"
"In a dream like state, it's not so difficult, at least not how I would approach it."
"How do you?" It's been a while to come across someone who is actually interested in what he knows, Solas pleasingly explains, "I mention attending ancient ruins and battlefields, any building strong enough to withstand the rigors of time has a history. Every battlefield is steeped in death. Both attracts spirits. They presses against the Veil, weakening the barrier between our worlds. When I dream of such places, I go deep into the Fade. I can find memories no other living being has ever seen."
"That's...quite impressive. I know someone who may actually be interested in such things."
'Would he happen to be named Merlin?' Solas inwardly jokes. The girl shook her head, "Forgive me, I am only getting into reminiscence. It's not so important."
Perhaps not, though if this girl really does know Merlin, Solas would like to know more about him.
"You are a curious person, Arturia. A person who no one really knows." He's gain Arturia's full attention, "It would make anyone to wonder, what kind of a hero you will be?"
A sort of a staring contest is acted between them, "If you have any suspicions towards me," Arturia starts, "you can trust that I will not do anything that will endanger the Inquisition. My life will be part of it."
"I did not mean to display sounding distrust, although I am very cautious myself. Even with Cassandra's accommodations."
Arturia relaxed slightly, "I don't know Cassandra well, so I cannot support her promise. However, since you have noted my honor, you can trust that I would assist in defending you. We will be travelling together after all."
"How far will you go?"
"You are an ally, I will not allow the loss of it, I will do however I have to to keep it that way."
Sincere and conviction. Impressive, "Thank you. For now, let us hope that either the Mages or the Templars have the power to seal Breach. I best get ready for our travel, Arturia." With a nod, he leaves, having to gain some amount of information of the girl that is proven to be quite the interests, noble as she is, he wonders how long she must have put it up in a world that was twisted even before the Breach.
"Ar dy itha ma sal."
He ends with an Elvish language parting, it's a habit of his to go off and on in speaking his native language, even though the person he's speaking to won't understand him.
That is until Arturia spoke it back to him, unexpectedly fluent too.
"Sule sal 'melana."
The confused rapid blinking tells Solas that she too was surprised by what left mouth, "You...speak Elven?"
The girl touched her throat, "I...this is...a first." She suddenly looks to her hand, as if she felt it's faint effects.
The sudden intrigues of this strange occurrence had made Solas to think. And he came to a conclusion, "It seems your Mark may be affecting you, able to grant you an ability to understand my language."
"Is that...possible?"
Skeptic is clear in her eyes, Solas responds, "It is a strange magic. No human at your age can speak the language so fluently, so it is an theory at best."
"The Mark has been giving off strange things."She vaguely stated, "You may be right about this."
An idea, out of interests mostly, came to Solas, "Perhaps we shall hone this talent while you still have it. I be happy to teach you the magic of this world, since the Mark is a part of the Fade, which is now a part of you."
At this revelation, she was shocked at this known fact, staring at her hand for another moment, she clenches it, "I would like to understand this magic myself, I'm frankly am tired of being left in the dark any longer."
A little bit humored, Solas nods to her, "Then I shall think to arrange our studies together. Whenever you are free."
"I have no objections, thank you Solas, now excuse me." She acts calmly into the house, yet Solas could tell she was hurrying, perhaps to keep herself collected despite the intrusion of something so interesting.
He's come far to understand humans, but it will never reach him how and why anyone would be so frighten over something fascinating, he hopes that Arturia will be much more composed and at the same time interested once they come together and study.
The Dread Wolf allowed his mouth to form into a small smile of anticipation.
Entering her house, Arturia reaches to the room where she had awoken, and here, she openly sighs through her nose and rubs her temples. Apparently, she now speaks fluent in the language of elf, yet another doing by the Mark. What else will this magic surprise her with? Is she to grow wings next?
"Is there no end to this madness?" She spat quietly, frustratingly.
The bed looks so irresistible now, maybe she'll wake up from a dream again...
"Now now, that is unbecoming of a king."
Ah. She nearly forgot about her conscious sword.
"Hush." She told him, "Solas, or anyone, could be nearby." She goes and sat at the edge of the bed, taking off the strap on her back and carefully taking Excalibur out of his sheath.
"I will keep my voice lower but I will not be silenced!" She hushed him again, but Excalibur continues, "You've dealt with any situation through stride, as maddening as it is, to be bitter is not how to go."
Arturia doubts anyone would remain calm with all she's been gaining in this new life, but Excalibur has a point, "There, stay strong King Arturia." The King of Knights caught that word in her mind, now's the best time to ask Excalibur what's been eating her ever since he spoke.
"Excalibur." She began, "Why do you call me Arturia, and not Arthur?"
"Hm?" He hums as if it was a strange question, but it wasn't so strange to her, it's just if Excalibur has been with her since her kingship, why not call her Arthur? Even she has never really introduced herself as Arturia during that time as King, "I've always seen you as King Arturia, but unlike others, I've seen past the mask of the King you always put on."
"I see...Until recently, I've never really been Arturia since I pulled Caliburn from the stone."
He responds, "Now you have a chance to be."
The words startled her.
"As King Arthur, you've never the chance to truly be as yourself, as someone who is not purely an ideal, but as someone who can become even greater. You need not hide your gender any more. True that while you are looked upon as a figure of hope yet again, I feel that this time, you will truly come to understand these people. Be not afraid to express yourself as you were forced to as Arthur, for now on, I wish to see my King at her brightest!"
Arturia wasn't sure how to respond something like that. For years she has to disguise as a boy, for years Merlin had to put on a spell and make herself more convincing, for years she denies ever having a gender, but a sword meant to be wielded for the people, someone who is meant to be alone, and carry the struggles of others. Now, she is not given that suggestion, instead she can be someone without a crown. Even as Herald, it still brings her relief, and actually see the price of this opportunity.
However, a small frown forms, "Even after all my failures, you still see me as King?"
"Of course." He said it without hesitation, "There can be no one else worthy for that title. Not especially that pompous Archer."
An amused smile broke through, very much agreeing with her sword.
"And you were never a failure."
She stiffened.
"You did everything you could, you feel as if it wasn't enough, but Arturia, you loved your people. You did well as our ruler, believe as I say that your dedication to look after us all was enough."
Her heart shook a little, however she remained compose, the smile soon blooming, "Thank you Excalibur."
"No need, my words were only inspired by the very best."
She huffed, and grips to her sword. A new life as Arturia Pendragon, repeating that sentence, it doesn't seem so bad now.
But she would be blind if she would call this starting all over, after all, with the monstrosity in the sky, and the people suffering, she may not be King as far as anyone sees, she will instead be their knight. Only this time, she will bring herself, and to truly know the people she is allied with.
"I may have an idea what that tyrant was talking about." Arturia said, "But that doesn't mean his words don't misinterpret who I am, don't they?" She closes her eyes, her palm to the handle of Excalibur, a moment to herself.
Her eyes reopen, her emerald glowed in determination.
"Best to make sure everything doesn't fall apart. Not under my watch."
So...who else is getting some Lord Bryon vibes here?
Yeah, it has been decided that Arturia's character shall take some inspiration from one of his heroes, a Byronic Hero if you will. Typically, they're seen as the most flawed kind of hero one can create and I find delightfully ironic in making Arturia, someone who did her damnest to be perfect in life, to make her one of them, minus the whole self-destructive behavior aspect and all. Still, if you don't think she isn't one yet, can you tell me what she's missing to fit the archetype? What she has already that can qualify her as one? Let me know so I can add these traits or make more pronounce to help make her feel like one!
Translations:
Ar dy itha ma sal = I Shall See You Again
Sule sal 'melana = Until Next Time
Thank you so much for your patience! Please leave a kind and honest review!
