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[TreeHuggerHannah]

(Moved the text of this down so post order will make sense, see below. )

[obsessedwjpn]

Rhys turned out to be a rather interesting fellow. He apologized rather quickly to what he must have assumed Mercuriel's wounded pride. Mercuriel was surprised. Rarely a human responded as such to him. Or perhaps it was as the man said: he meant no harm in his usage of the word 'lad.' Mercuriel had just gotten used to other humans addressing him with young/child-like phrases because of his appearance.

 

It was true that elves looked younger than they actually were. Unfortunately they no longer received the benefit of immortality ever since the Quickening that occurred after humans came to Thedas. 

 

Mercuriel moved with the rest of the group out of the Tarl's home and back out on the road for their journey to the Dalish camp. Dog followed closely on his heels. The journey would be long and arduous. It would also be dangerous. Mercuriel felt his protective instincts taking over with concern to Laurelin but he knew Beldin would look after her. He had his own babysitter to worry about anyways.

 

Mercuriel looked over at Rhys again. He decided some short small talk would be best. "Thank you for your apology earlier. I should not have snapped at you as I did. I am simply used to a certain kind of treatment from humans so I react quickly to certain words or phrases. However, I enjoy the company of humans as much as any other race. Therefore, I welcome you Rhys to our group and I assure you that I can handle myself in a battle. My mabari, Dog, can also fight just as well as any two-legged creature." 

 

He looked down at Dog who barked in response. Dog then greeted Rhys by rubbing his head against the large man's side. Mercuriel rolled his eyes at the mabari's constant need for physical contact and stomped on a bit further.

[Mahumia]

When the group poured out of the room, Bartha followed silently. On the way out she said her thanks to the Warden and his servants, then slipped behind the rest and out of the mansion. She would surely miss the safety and warmth, and the luxery of a warm bath... 

 

Once outside she fell behind a bit, to make the large group a little less large and obvious. If required, she would be able to join it in a second. 

[berelinde]

Tarl saw them to the door himself, and into the street, publicly clasping arms with any who would accept his outstretched hand. All except Tempest. He bowed to her instead, and put his hand over his heart.

 

"I owe you a debt of gratitude," he said warmly. "I beg you to accept my thanks and my friendship. I will welcome all of you gladly upon your return, but you most of all, for the healing and peace you have brought into my home. Andraste guide your steps, and Maker bring you back safe and soon."

[BFace]

A tiny joint post by BFace and MysteriousPast

or

What happens when two people who aren't talking much try to, well, talk.

 

 

 

As Tessa followed Rael, she called quietly, "Rael, wait."

 

At the sound of Tessa's voice, Rael stopped dead and mutely turned her head back to look back at the woman.

 

Tessa took one look at Rael's face and nodded.  She had no idea what the elven woman must be feeling right now.

 

"I'm not going to make you talk to me about the weather, Rael," she said gently. "Just...stay close to me, aye?"

 

"The weather?" Rael echoed hollowly, then nodded again as she comprehended Tessa's meaning. "The people here know me," she continued a bit more forcefully. "But if you feel I need an escort, I won't argue." She turned back towards the door and waited.

 

Tessa nodded once more and walked out the door, hoping Rael would follow.

[TreeHuggerHannah]

Tempest was surprised by the effusive thanks Tarl gave her, but pleased by it.

 

"I will accept both gladly," she replied with a smile. "And I hope that in return, you will accept my friendship also, and my gratitude for your generous hospitality. Maker watch over you and Eshara. I will look forward to seeing you both upon our return."

 

Tempest cast one last glance at the manor as they left. She hadn't fully registered it at the time... but she had felt safe there. Within the thick stone walls, it had seemed like no harm would come to her - more because of the welcome they had received than because of the walls themselves. Out on the road, she would feel far more vulnerable.

 

She very deliberately turned away, and put one foot in front of the other, and soon she was on her way. It was easier to keep walking once she had started.

 

As she walked, Tempest sang softly under her breath. It was a hymn, one of her long-time favorites, a song about thankfulness to the Maker, sung to a cheerful tune. 

[Kerridwynn]

"Thank you for your apology earlier. I should not have snapped at you as I did. I am simply used to a certain kind of treatment from humans so I react quickly to certain words or phrases. However, I enjoy the company of humans as much as any other race. Therefore, I welcome you Rhys to our group and I assure you that I can handle myself in a battle. My mabari, Dog, can also fight just as well as any two-legged creature."

 

Rhys gave his lopsided smile and nodded his head at Mercuriel's words.  "Thank you for the welcome.  I'm that glad we get to travel together.  I enjoy the company of capable people, a group that fits together well and everyone has their part to play.  It reminds me of home.  The clans all have their little niches and everyone plays their part to make sure we all survive."

 

He rubbed Dog behind the ears when the mabari rubbed his head against his side.  Rhys respected mabari hounds although he had never had much to do with them.  He preferred a good hunting hawk but he hadn't had one for years at this point.  Animals were a goodness, be they companions or packers or food.  

 

"Do you mind if we stop by the bowyer's shop before we leave?  I would like to get a bowstring or two, just in case.  I've got my stave but I prefer to give 'em hell from afar." 

[Lorien19]

Laurelin hesitated to reach for a handshake.Touching and physical contact made her uncomfortable in most cases.But she did so anyway,the warden had been an excellent host after all.
Most importantly,he was also discreet.She quickly scanned the room to see the Avar human talking with Mercuriel,she averted her gaze immediately as soon as she realized,that once more her eyes lingered towards his direction.
The last time she had feelings for someone,she ended up with an arrow in her chest,one that missed her heart by mere inches.
She swallowed the bitterness that her memories brought her and proceeded to leave the courtroom accompanied always by Beldin.

[berelinde]

Game Post: Mercuriel and Rhys

 

Mercuriel and Rhys were forced to step off the path for a moment to avoid stepping on an obviously inebriated human who sat with his back to a fence post and his legs stretched out across the road. 

 

"Ho, stretch," the man jeered, "How many dogs are you walking, aye?"

 

Spoiler

Group 1: 1d6 → [4] = (4)

Group 2: 1d6 → [1] = (1)

Group 3: 1d6 → [5] = (5)

Group 1=Laurelin, Group 2=Mercuriel, Group 3=Rael (1=encounter)

http://invisiblecast...r/view/4685723/

 

1d6 → [1] = (1)

1=taunts, 2=insults, 3=fist-shaking, 4=thrown fruit, 5=one drunk with a grudge, 6=Coalan.

http://invisiblecast...r/view/4685726/

[Kerridwynn]

"Ho, stretch," the man jeered, "How many dogs are you walking, aye?"

 

Rhys gave the man a once over as he stepped around him and then smiled broadly and said in a hearty voice "By the mountain you must have been drinking some of that fine ale they have at the tavern.  I had some last night and I couldn't tell the difference between man and mabari myself.  That was some excellent brew!"

 

Rhys paused as if in fond remembrance.  "Tell ya what, if I see you in the tavern later I'll spot ya a pint."

[obsessedwjpn]

Rhys seemed to be as fond of Dog as Dog was of him. Mercuriel was certain Dog had secured himself a permanent head scratcher for the rest of their journey. He couldn't help but smile a bit at the turn of events. 

 

"I do not mind at all," he replied to Rhys' inquiry.

 

The drunk man they encountered caused Mercuriel's nostrils to flare in protest for a moment. He covered his nose and mouth before he wretched. He waved to the man before turning his head to the side and coughing. He tried to put Rhys' giant body between him and the foul smell emitting from the man.

 

Dog's ears lowered for a moment but he seemed keen on sticking to Rhys regardless of what foul stench wafted in the air. He stuck his tongue out and happily licked Rhys' hand as the two men had a lovely chat. Rhys was a conversationalist it seemed and friendly too. Mercuriel didn't know whether this was a good thing or not. Perhaps he could chat their enemies to death? He chuckled under his breath and placed a hand on Rhys' large shoulder.

 

"Shall we move swiftly before we are left behind?" He got a bit closer to Rhys and whispered, "And before the hairs in my nose fall out from exposure?"

[Kerridwynn]

Rhys nodded at Mercuriel.  "Aye, let's head on.  Our friend here needs a nap and he's picked a right lovely place to take one too."

 

Rhys leaned closer to Mercuriel and said quietly, "He's like to smell worse after he passes out in the sun."

[berelinde]

Plot Post: Meeting Philomena

 

Summary: Laurelin makes a new friend in the market, who agrees to join forces with the party to defeat a common threat.

 

 

The market was surprisingly bustling, but no one seemed to be buying anything. Perhaps it was because people were just bored, but had already picked over everything the market had to offer. One stand seemed to be drawing more than its expected share of attention, however: a simple canvas spread upon the ground, with a collection of herbs and poultices on display.

 

Laurelin’s attention was caught by the colorful display of herbs laid upon the ground. Truth be told, she’ll need to renew her supplies after using a considerable amount in their recent battle.

She gazed towards Beldin, her ever vigilant guard, a bit hesitant to ask him to stop, however better now than never. Shyly she cleared her throat to catch his attention “Er...I know this isn’t the best time to stop, Beldin, but I’m afraid I will have to take a look at these herbs and poultices,”She whispered. “My supplies are running low.”

 

"Of course you should stop," Beldin said affably. "It looks like she's got an excellent selection."

 

Laurelin nodded, but she didn’t say anything rather than a silent “Mhm”. Beldin was right, it was indeed a remarkable selection. She leaned towards the canvas in order to take a closer look. The quality was equally impressive, ”How much for the elfroot?” She asked avoiding eye contact with the merchant. Elfroot would be more than ideal for the poultices she needed.

 

Philomena hated being the one to go to market. Usually Bess handled this task, but she’d said she felt a touch of the croup and refused to get out of bed. So Philomena had packed up the herbs and poultices and brought them to the square, laying them out rather haphazardly. It was crowded, as usual, and the abundance of strangers made her nervous. The sooner she could sell their wares, the sooner she could leave, she reasoned, and tried to make nice with the customers. It hadn’t gone well.

 

“The elfroot is sixty coppers a bundle,” she replied in a mellifluous voice to the Dalish woman who’d enquired. Normally, seeing Dalish about wasn’t such a rarity, but with the troubles in the forest and the outlying farms, they’d stayed away from the village. Apparently, this one wasn’t so wise. At least she’d had the sense to hire a bodyguard to keep the inbred locals off her back. “Before you say anything about fleecing, it’s been a dry season and elfroot is scarcer than usual.”

 

She couldn’t help but raise an eyebrow at the merchant’s comment. Laurelin didn’t have to use human currency before in order to buy something like elfroot. She’d usually spend hours in the forest collecting them one by one and then presenting them to the keeper with a wide, prideful smile. So she wasn’t in the position to argue whether it was indeed fleecing or not. However the woman was right, elfroot was indeed scarcer than usual.

 

“I...Er suppose it will do then.” She reached for her coin pouch and handed her one hundred and twenty coppers for two bundles.

 

Philomena handed her the two bundles, and took her money. “I’m surprised to see one of you Dalish in the market square,” she said nonchalantly. If the Dalish hadn’t caught her Rivaini accent already, it was probably apparent by now. Not that she’d have to speak to stand out in Vintiver, which looked practically Avaar, judging by the people who lived there. “I’d have thought the local idiots would have scared you off by now.”

 

Laurelin was somehow startled by the woman’s attempt to smalltalk, or perhaps the lack of hostility from her part. Truth be told, she didn’t appear to be one of the locals, something that her accent and speech validated. She didn’t seem to be very fond of them either, something that caught Laurelin’s curiosity. Who knew, maybe they caused her trouble in the past as well, they were certainly not the most hospitable people she’s  ever met. She looked back at the woman, from her complexion and accent she could tell that she hailed from the northern parts of Thedas. “I’d say that they have, or so they think,”Laurelin answered bitterly. “But you certainly don’t seem to be one of them.”

 

Philomena shrugged. “Why? Because I haven’t swallowed the ridiculous notion that Dalish have sprouted claws and started killing farmers indiscriminately? It’s hardly a high bar to clear, is it?”

 

“Precisely so!” Laurelin smirked. “The locals seem more than eager to believe such tales, if it gave them a reason to march against my people.” She sighed, deciding that the last comment wasn’t necessary, as the people were understandably frightened. ”But I can’t blame them for being scared, they live in a harsh land...Most importantly, in harsh times.” Laurelin realised that her tongue was looser than usual. ”So you didn’t tell me, where do you hail from?” She asked, trying to change the topic.

 

“Don’t take it personally,” Philomena advised. “I once had to spend an hour convincing a farmer’s wife that spirits weren’t responsible for her strawberry preserves spoiling, that she just hadn’t sealed the jars properly.” She blinked and leaned closer to the Dalish. “An hour.” At the woman’s question about her heritage, she furrowed her brow and hesitated slightly before replying, “I originally come from Rivain. But I’ve lived here for more than half my life.”

 

 

“Rivain is it?I’ve heard tales about it...But never had the opportunity to visit it yet.” She shrugged. “My clan’s been stuck here for the past ten years. I’m starting to believe that the Keeper is taken with these lands,” she remarked. amused. She noticed that the Rivaini was hesitant to reply, which  wasn’t surprising considering that they’d just met. ”You can call me Laurelin, if you’d like,” she said with a faint smile.

 

“Shanedan, Laurelin,” Mena said with a respectful air. “You may call me Philomena.” She glanced back at the large man who had been accompanying the Dalish woman.  At first, she’d not taken much notice of him, letting him blend in with the hulking, fair-haired people that seemed to sprout up in this region. But upon second look, he seemed familiar somehow. “That man you travel with… I think I’ve seen him before.”

 

"I'm Beldin," he said. "I arrived here earlier this week. It's a pleasure to meet you."

 

“Beldin… Beldin… where have I heard that name?” she said quietly to herself, rubbing her fingertips along her hairline. Then she looked up with a brightened expression and said to him, “Oh, I know! Congratulations on the overturning of your rape conviction!”

 

Beldin sighed. For a moment, he considered saying nothing, but he was going to have to learn how to live with this sooner or later. And it was infinitely better than learning to die by the alternative.

 

"Tarl Dale is a fair magistrate," he said. "Vintiver is fortunate to have a level-headed leader."

 

Philomena’s brow furrowed in confusion. “Who said otherwise?” She looked back at the Dalish woman helplessly, wondering how she’d made the man feel the need to be defensive. As usual, her attempts at being pleasant had backfired, almost predictably.

 

Laurelin was still shocked by the fact that the news about Beldin’s conviction travelled so fast. She placed a hand on his shoulder, even though once more she had to stand at the tips of her toes to reach him, and looked back at Philomena. “Please, I understand that you mean no harm...But this is not a very pleasant conversation for my friend.” She gave her a reassuring smile in order to ease the tension. “Philomena wasn’t it? Such a lovely name!”

 

Looking back between the two, Philomena couldn’t understand why there would be unpleasantness if the outcome was in Beldin’s favor. And why, if it were to be a secret, the warden would post the information publicly. But there were many nuances she found she could not comprehend with these sorts of… social things...and decided to let the topic drop before she embarrassed herself further. “I thank you for your kind words about my name, but I cannot take credit for it,” she said somewhat awkwardly, sitting back down and busying herself with some clusters of mushrooms. “Did you need anything else?”

 

“No, thank you.” She replied, sensing the woman’s unease. “Thank you again for the elfroot, Philomena, few people here would be eager to trade with a Dalish.” She smiled at the Rivaini and wrapped the elfroot into a cloth, before placing them into her backpack.” I understand that elfroot is in abundance this year...But I know a place deep in the forest where the humidity is just about right for it,” she said. “I could bring you a batch if you’d like.”

 

“Ignorant morons, as I said before,” she replied. When Laurelin described a secret place for elfroot, her interest was piqued, but something about the Dalish’s words were confusing. “If you know where to find a wealth of elfroot,” she asked with a quirked brow. “Then why buy mine?”

 

Laurelin sighed, she noticed a spark of interest in Philomena’s eyes when she mentioned the herb, and no one could guarantee that she wouldn’t try to look for them by herself. But after the current events and the talk of these revengers,the last thing she’d want was another innocent falling prey to these monsters. It was her duty to warn her at least.  “Well...You know,” she cleared her throat nervously, “This nonsense, the locals have been talking about...It’s not that much of a nonsense.” Perfect, she’d probably confused her even more. “What I meant is that the forest isn’t very safe at the moment...But I assure you the Dalish are not involved!” She exclaimed, “In fact this is why I’m here in the first place, to put an end to this.”

 

Philomena stood again, eyes wide with apprehension. “The forest is never safe,” she countered. “But I sense that is not your meaning. What has happened that the Dalish and the locals have felt the need to join forces to fight?”

 

“Have you heard of the massacre that took place at the Fuldor’s?” Laurelin asked quietly trying to avoid attracting unwanted attention to their conversation. “We have witnesses...a Dalish  woman that they left for dead mentioned that the culprits were some twisted monsters with claws instead of fingers.” She answered. “But we recently heard the exact description from another human, who joined our group. He was referring to another attack of course, but still.” Laurelin looked at the ground, her tale probably sounded insane but it was about time more people were warned, for the upcoming threat.

 

“I have heard something of the sort,” Philomena replied, her expression still bleak. “But I dismissed it as superstitious rumors. You…” she came closer to Laurelin, leaning in to say softly, “You mean to confront these creatures?”

 

“I have no other choice. They appear to attack indiscriminately, I can’t let them get close to my camp and prey on my clanmates.” She sighed. “Besides, I’d hate to see more innocent perish by their claws, be it elves or humans,” Laurelin said sadly.

 

Philomena nodded and turned back to her canvas blanket. As she hastily scooped up her wares into a large pack she announced, almost imperiously, “Very well. I’m coming with you.”

 

“I have no doubt a fellow herbalist would be of great use to our group...but ,you see these monsters will not hesitate to kill you, so unless you can defend yourself...I’m sorry but I can’t accept your assistance.” Laurelin shrugged. She was touched by the woman’s eagerness to help but she never put anyone in needless danger, even for a noble cause.

 

Slinging her pack over her shoulder, Philomena said, “I’m not requesting permission. You mean to go into the forest, yes? No one knows it like I do. You’d get lost in a matter of hours, and what hope would you have of destroying these monsters then?”

 

“Lost?” Laurelin chuckled. “You are right,I don’t know the forest…” she replied with a smile while fastening her cloak, “I am the forest. Or so I’d think being born and bred in it.” Laurelin looked back at Philomena. “But I will not turn down help when it’s offered. You are welcome to come along as far as I’m concerned.” She somehow doubted that the Rivaini would be so eager to join them unless she knew how to handle herself.

 

Philomena scowled, an expression that looked quite at home on her face. “I know perfectly well that Dalish are forest-dwellers. But you are not local to this area, or else I’d have recognized you.” She gestured towards the trees that loomed in the distance. “This particular forest is my home, and I know well how to avoid the caves that hold bats, where to find decent dry firewood, and which parts contain ground so marshy that you’ll lose your shoes in it.” She picked up a birch staff that was carved around a black sphere of volcanic glass at its end. “And I’m not so defenseless as I may appear.” She pointed the end of the staff towards the center of the village and stated, “You said there were others with you. Shall we find them and make our way to your monsters?”

 

“Another mage,” Laurelin whispered, her voice so low she could barely hear it her self. “I should have thought.” She should have indeed, after all she could sense mana from miles afar like all mages could do. But sometimes that turned out to be lyrium which was more likely to be found in the market.  “I may not be a local, but I ‘ve been raised here in Ferelden...I know its fauna and flora like the palm of my hand. But It would be better to have someone along who knows this particular forest.”

 

Blanching at Laurelin’s use of the word, “mage,” Philomena turned away. Surely, not every person with a staff could be immediately fingered as a mage. The only way the Dalish could be so certain was if she sensed it herself. Then there was no reason to attempt to deflect. “I’d prefer it if you’d not say that sort of thing out loud, even quietly,” she whispered. “I’ve got neither clan nor Keeper to maintain my safety here.” She leveled her ebony eyes at the Dalish and continued, “If you think being a Dalish garners hostility, try being an apostate.”

 

“I’d say I’m a bit of both. As far as the locals are concerned my Keeper has no power here…” She nodded, “I apologise,I shouldn’t have mentioned it though.” She kept her golden eyes on the other woman’s. “I understand that your people are twice as hostile towards anyone who has been gifted with magic.” Laurelin said quietly. “Let’s find the others,I’m sure they be more than glad to have you in our company, ” she said with a smile.

 

“Gifted?” Philomena blurted out, then immediately shook her head. Certainly, the Dalish revered magic, made its practitioners their leaders. If only she’d been born Dalish instead, perhaps… But Laurelin was leading her away, to the rest of the group, and that was for the best. Definitely better than indulging pointless thoughts about how her life might have been. As she walked with her, Philomena glanced over her shoulder at Beldin and asked Laurelin quietly, “Your...large… companion--and the others you travel with--they are aware of your nature?”

 

As they left the Market, Laurelin heard Philomena whispering whether the rest of her companions knew about her nature. The question wasn’t meant to be funny but after her small demonstration during that night they went out to save Bartha, she couldn’t help but laugh. 

 

”I’d say more than I would have liked,but still you have nothing to fear.” She glanced back. “In fact there’s another mage besides me in our group.”

 

Philomena didn’t understand what the Dalish found so amusing, but she often missed the humorous references others bandied about and chose to remain quiet instead of revealing her awkwardness. “That should be enlightening,” she responded. “I look forward to learning from both of you.”

 

“So Do I.”Laurelin said evenly. She probably confused Philomena with her response, but she’ll find out soon enough what she means. Hopefully not in such an embarrassing manner as the rest of her companions did. For one she was glad to have another addition to the group and the Rivaini seemed pleasant enough, she’d have someone else to speak with about herbalism.

 

Walking quietly alongside Laurelin, Philomena had a moment to realize the gravity of what she’d agreed, no insisted, on doing. She’d seen battle before, but long ago, and not on this scale. To say she was courting danger was a ridiculous understatement. But she’d made it her vocation to protect people--these people--though they were ignorant, and insipid, and often so careless she was surprised they didn’t drown in their teacups. What happened next would be up to the Universe to mete out.

[obsessedwjpn]

"If he smells any worse I think I'll see the Creators sooner rather than later," Mercuriel replied.

 

He then moved forward, Dog in toe, and walked slowly so as to let Rhys guide them to their destination.

[berelinde]

Plot Post: Rael's Summons

 

Summary: The worst of Rael's fears is realized. She has time to prevent it, but only if she leaves at once. In the process, she rediscovers her connection with a lost love, and accepts the promise of his heart.

 

No one in the crowded market seemed to be paying much attention to either Rael or Tessa as they walked the length of the market. A flash of movement caught your eyes, a pair of village youths overtaking a solitary elf, grabbing his arms and frogmarching him halfway across the square.

 

"Put me down, you fools!" the elf cried.

 

Rael’s head shot up as the words hit her ear like a thunderbolt. Without a word to Tessa, she turned on her heel and sprinted towards the beleaguered elf in the square.

 

Tessa looked from the human to Rael’s retreating form. ‘Andraste’s Ass.’ She hesitated, then ran full on after Rael.

 

"Hey, Oliver!" the one human called out to the other. "Shouldn't he have that face paint stuff?"

 

The other human let out a short squeal and dropped his half of the elf, tumbling the poor man into the road.

 

"Maker's breath!" the other man swore. "Must be one of the lads from the winery. Sorry about that mate!"

 

The elf rose with surprising grace and shoved the human who still held his arm. "Why can't you morons just leave me alone?" he said with an indignant snort.

 

Before the elf could get another shove in, Rael was upon him, pulling his arm and dragging him away. “Ellis!” she shouted breathlessly. “What in Andraste’s name are you doing here?”

 

 

Bronze-gold eyes met Rael's, lit with both joy and disbelief. "Rael," he breathed. "Can it really be you?"

 

Even before she had time to respond, he flung his arms around her and held her tight, kissing her face, his chest heaving with emotion.

 

Tessa slowed to a walk then stopped well away from the two elves. Clearly Rael knew this fellow...or at least Tessa hoped she did at this point, and she watched Rael carefully, ready to jump in if necessary.

 

Ellis’ arms around her drove the air from her lungs, and as she felt his lips on her skin; breath still eluded her. “Yes, it’s me,” she said with a chuckle. “Maker, what’s gotten into you?” She pushed away slightly so she could see his face, but the smile on her mouth disappeared when she saw how somber his expression was. “What is it? What’s happened?”

 

He hung his head, sleek dark hair falling over his eyes.

 

"I... I tried, Rael," he said. "I did everything I could for him, but an elf in Denerim..."

 

He shook his head as if to clear it. "It's Cordry, Rael," he said. "He was arrested, taken right in front of me, and there was nothing I could  do. I've made inquiries. I know where he's held. But I can't do this alone. I need you."

 

Rael shoved him away with both hands. “He got arrested and you just left him there?” she shouted incredulously. “Maker’s breath, Ellis! Who knows what they’ve done with him by now!” Her eyes burned like coals as she stared him down. “How could you do that?”

 

His sigh was more of a huff.

 

"Yes!" he laughed. "It would have been sooo much better if I'd been arrested, too! That would have made it much easier for me to cross an entire continent to find you. There's still time to save him, but we need to leave now."

 

Rael took a couple gasping breaths, trying to quiet her pounding heart. The significance of Ellis’ words finally hit her spinning mind. “You came all the way out here… for me?” she managed. Her brow was furrowed and her expression was stormy. “How did you even know where I was?”

 

"I'd go to the ends of Thedas," he said, "but that isn't the point. Do you have any idea how many towns, villages, hamlets, and shepherd's huts there are between here and Denerim? I do. I've been to them all. I knew you were heading south, and I just kept asking for an elf with a magical voice. And here you are."

 

“Yes, I’m here,” she affirmed, but her voice was distant. If Cordry was in prison, it wouldn’t be long before his mouth got him in serious trouble. Her eyes met Ellis’ and she felt a strange emotion rise in her throat. Of all of the people to come after her, to tell her of her brother’s perilous situation, she never would have expected Ellis. After all, it was no secret that Cordry got on his nerves, and that was putting it mildly. She narrowed her eyes and asked, “Why? Why did you come all this way?” Her voice was tinged with an old resentment. “Did you have something to do with his arrest?”

 

"Of course not!" Ellis retorted. "I've been looking out for him since you left. Nothing overt. I didn't want anybody to think he was involved in my dealings at all. But I kept my eyes open and followed him when I could. I wasn't trying to recruit him, but I knew how you'd bleed if anything happened to him, so I did my best. And right now, my best included finding you."

 

“Yes, I need to go back,” she said quietly, glancing back at Tessa. “I’ve… gotten myself involved in...something here,” she said, turning back to Ellis. “But, if my brother needs me, I’ll have to take my leave. How did you arrive? By caravan? How soon can we depart?” Her expression darkened again. “Or did you intend to give me the news and be on your way?”

 

"Would it surprise you to learn that my plans ended at finding you?" he said with a grin. "It shouldn't. You were always the clever one. As for what I intend... that's up to you. I can't live without you, Rael. I've tried."

 

He cast his eyes across the throng.

 

"Maker help me, I swore I was never going to say this," he said. "The color went out of the world when you left. Nothing was right anymore. Nothing was fun. All the fights we used to have, all the laughter, all the... everything. All gone. I'm in this one with you, Rael. As long as you'll have me."

 

Rael said nothing for a moment. Instead, she just stood there, staring, her mouth wide open. He was saying… what was he saying exactly? Was this his version of telling her how he felt at last? After all those years of espousing the merits of freedom, the necessity of staying unattached, this is what he came up with? She was about to dismiss his rambling, but then finally comprehended the meaning behind the words, in the spaces between them, in the vulnerable expression on his face.

 

Still, he’d made her wait this long and he wasn’t going to get off that easy. “So, you’ve been bored, is that it?” There was a hint of a smile in her words as she walked close to him, pausing just a hand’s width from his chest. “How inconvenient it must have been for you.”

"I've been... bereft," he said, his voice shaking with emotion. "I know now the mistake I made keeping you at arm's length all those years. I always knew that I loved you. I was terrible at showing you, but that was never your fault. I don't know. I thought that somehow, I'd be able to make it up to you someday, that you'd wait, that you'd hear my heart in the silence between our squabbles. You are my world, Rael. I can't live another day without saying that. Come with me, my love. Let us never be parted again."

 

As Ellis spoke, Rael merely watched him with large eyes and parted lips. The man never did anything halfway, did he? For the briefest of moments, her eyes flicked to the end of the square, to the Chantry door that was undoubtedly barred--an impenetrable barrier. Then she saw Ellis again, standing there, his heart in his hands, held out to her. All of the frustration, the bitterness caused by his prideful distance shattered like stained glass around her. He barely got the last word out before she was in his arms. “Shut up already,” she murmured and kissed him with all her might.

 

He returned her kiss as if she held his life between her hands, and perhaps she did. Sighing, he surrendered to it, folding her into his arms and murmuring "My love, my love" against her lips.

 

“You could have avoided the worn soles on your shoes if you hadn’t been so stubborn in the first place,” she chided softly.

 

He smiled at her, gently, timidly, the humility of the expression as alien to him as it probably was to her, but there was no deception in the warm, heartfelt gaze he raised to hers.

 

"I have something for you," he said, extending his closed hand. "It's a symbol of my promise to you. I meant it when I said that I'll be yours for as long as you'll have me, and this is your proof. Have me as I am, my love, and know that I am yours."

 

He opened his hand to reveal a glittering circle of gold and emerald.

 

Rael gasped audibly as she saw the beautiful ring he offered her. “You have been planning this for some time, haven’t you?” she said, eyes fixated on the ring. Gingerly, she picked it up and brought it up, just inches from her nose. The stone was clear and vivid--it must have cost him a fortune. Around the band he’d engraved peacock feathers in impossibly precise grooves. “It’s so… perfect,” she whispered. Turning it over, she saw more engraving on the inside and examined it. An inscription read, “Forever is a long time,” in florid script.

 

She laughed lightly and placed the ring on her finger. “It is indeed,” she said softly. “Are you truly ready to see how long?”

 

"You've always been up for a gamble, and I'm a sure bet," he said, eyes a-twinkle. "So I'd say, find out."

 

“I think I will,” she whispered with her lips by his ear. “And I love you, too.”

 

Tessa had been keeping an eye on the square as Rael and this other elf seemed to be having some sort of reunion. As the two began exchanging endearments, she resisted the urge to raise her eyebrows. She did, however, turn away to give them what privacy she could.

 

When she realized Rael was intending to leave with this fellow, she looked around and caught Rhys’s eye. With a jerk of her head she motioned him to come to them with Mercuriel, then she caught Tempest’s eyes and did the same, then Bartha. Lastly, she caught Beldin’s eye, and saw that he and Laurelin had a strikingly lovely dark haired woman with them. She quirked a brow at him and motioned toward Rael and her new friend.  Once she’d summoned the group, she quietly explained what she thought was happening.

[BFace]

Tessa hadn't had the chance to spend much time in Rael's company, other than in shared horror on the Fuldor's farm, where the elf had acted with grace and strength.

 

While she would miss the chance to know her better, she felt some relief that the woman would be going back to the city.  She felt like Rael was maybe better suited to the life of a musician and wished her every happiness in whatever she chose, and the thought that she'd be safe, well away from all of this, eased her mind a bit.

 

She stood before Rael, smiling down at her, grey eyes into clear green.

 

"I will likely never see anyone jump out a window as gracefully as you." Tessa grinned swiftly, a flash of humor. "Maker watch over you, Rael."

[mysteriouspast]

"I will likely never see anyone jump out a window as gracefully as you." Tessa grinned swiftly, a flash of humor. "Maker watch over you, Rael."

 

Rael smiled and bowed her head to the tall woman. "No, I think you won't, either." She glanced over at Beldin then back to Tessa, and said with a trace of smugness, "And perhaps you should take some risks yourself, alright?" Clasping Tessa's hand briefly, she added, "Maker watch over you as well."

[Mahumia]

Bartha readied herself when the drunk man started to call out on Rhys and Mercuriel. She sighed in relief when Rhys managed to solve it peacefully. The groups got separated on the busy market, but that made it only easier to go up in the crowd. She found a stone wall to climb upon, in order to give her a view of the entire square.

 

Keeping an eye on everyone would prove a lot easier this way, as her length proved to be a disadvantage. Luckily, most people didn’t pay much attention to their elven companions. She smiled when she noticed that Laurelin was purchasing something from a merchant. There were quite a few merchants actually, and Bartha felt the urge to have a look and see whether there would be some nice deals to have. They would be on the road for Maker knows how long, and it was getting colder by the day… it might not be a bad idea to stock up on some extra’s. Some warm clothing, an extra blanket or fur… perhaps some rope? She also recalled her action with the lock on the chest, so perhaps getting a hold of some lockpicks wouldn’t hurt either…

 

She was about to slip from the wall, when some tumult caught her attention. Some guys got hold of an elven man and were dragging him along. She noticed that Tessa and Rael hurried over, and decided to get a bit closer in case help was needed.

She held her step when she saw the man kiss Rael. It made her raise an eyebrow. Perhaps it was part of a trick, in order to get rid of his assaulters, but usually women would perform such a trick, not men. Because of the distance, her view got blocked every now and then, but she got the impression that the two actually knew each other.

 

When they actually started to kiss, she crossed her arms and frowned. Her gaze went to the chantry, where apparently Etienne got locked up to perform some trick for sister such-and-such. ‘Barely away, and already forgotten?’ She shook her head and when she looked again in the direction of the spectacle, she noticed that Tessa was motioning to her to come over.

 

Her frown deepened when Tessa did her best to explain the situation to them. She understood well why Rael needed to leave to help her brother, she’d do the same, but the other part was disappointing to her. Doing her best to keep a neutral tone to her voice, she offered Rael her hand. “I hope that you will be able to help your brother, Rael. Your songs will be missed, though.” Not able to keep her face straight, she added with a glare. “But what do you want us to tell Etienne, when they release him again from that dusting Chantry? ‘Oh, she met some former lover, hardly an hour after they took you away, so she has forgotten about you now’? I wish you all the best Rael, but I think this is really unfair.”

[mysteriouspast]

Rael shook Bartha's hand warmly when the dwarf offered. "Thank you for your well wishes. I know how important family is to you." When Bartha made the dig about Etienne, Rael's pleasant expression faltered. Why Bartha would suddenly take up Etienne's cause--a man she was fairly certain had not exchanged more than a few words with her--was anyone's guess. But then, Rael reminded herself, Bartha had a strange way of showing loyalty to her friends.

 

She glanced up at Ellis who gave her a curious look and set her jaw as she replied, "On the off chance that you run into Etienne again, you may, of course, tell him whatever you wish. Any words you give him would be far more than he spared me."

 

Feeling unwelcome and misunderstood, she took a half step back where Ellis grasped her hand and squeezed it reassuringly.

[berelinde]

Beldin waited until Rael and Bartha finished speaking before approaching the elven bard. He dropped to one knee so that they could face each other eye to eye and took one of her hands between his own.

 

"Andraste guide you swiftly to your brother's rescue," he said warmly, "and Maker keep you safe. I will pray for you, and I rejoice that even now, you have hope and love to sustain you. I will not say goodbye, but I will say farewell, and have faith that if the Maker wills it, our paths may cross again. Be well, my friend, and remember me. Because I will never forget you."

 

With that, he kissed her hand and bid her an affectionate farewell.

[TreeHuggerHannah]

Tempest was initially startled for the same reason Bartha was - the conclusion she drew, however, was less harsh. As far as she knew, the relationship between Rael and Etienne had been little more than a flirtation. In time perhaps it would have amounted to more, but she doubted there had been any promises of eternal love given or expected on either side. Rael clearly had a complicated but important relationship with this man from her past, and at least for the time being Etienne was not ready to turn his back on his Circle. Perhaps this was the only way it could have ended.

 

"Be well, Rael," she said, giving the elven bard's hand a gentle squeeze. "We will miss you. Maker watch over you both. I will think of you when I play this lute you have so perfectly tuned for me. I pray that your brother is safe, and that you can soon free him."

 

First Sarel, then Etienne, now Rael... the loss of members of their company was becoming difficult for Tempest. It wouldn't be the same without their friends. Yet somehow, they would all go on.

[Kerridwynn]

Rhys caught up to the others when they paused.  He didn't know Rael at all, having just joined the company, so he merely nodded farewell to her.  "Good luck, and may the Mountain Father bless your endeavor."

[mysteriouspast]

 

Beldin waited until Rael and Bartha finished speaking before approaching the elven bard. He dropped to one knee so that they could face each other eye to eye and took one of her hands between his own.

 

"Andraste guide you swiftly to your brother's rescue," he said warmly, "and Maker keep you safe. I will pray for you, and I rejoice that even now, you have hope and love to sustain you. I will not say goodbye, but I will say farewell, and have faith that if the Maker wills it, our paths may cross again. Be well, my friend, and remember me. Because I will never forget you."

 

With that, he kissed her hand and bid her an affectionate farewell.

 

 

Rael was startled as Beldin lowered himself in front of her and clasped her hand. Something in him had changed since the night before. This man was almost unrecognizably demonstrative with his affection and Rael was incredibly touched by his word and gesture. As he bid her farewell and kissed her hand, her free hand rested against her throat and she was surprised to find her eyes had gone misty.  

 

He stood and stepped away from her and the impulse to be demonstrative as well was overpowering. Before he receded from her reach, Rael stepped forward, almost in a lunge, and threw her arms around his waist. "I won't forget you, either, Beldin," she said in a tremulous voice. "Take care of all of them for me, won't you?"

 

She released him and moved back to Ellis' side, noting his expression had gone from curious to perplexed. Rael was certain he'd be talking her ear off as soon as they were alone, which suited her fine--she had much to tell. 

 

"Be well, Rael," she said, giving the elven bard's hand a gentle squeeze. "We will miss you. Maker watch over you both. I will think of you when I play this lute you have so perfectly tuned for me. I pray that your brother is safe, and that you can soon free him."

 

"Thank you, serah Tempest," Rael replied, getting a hold of her rapidly changing emotions. "I will remember you and your family in my prayers. If you should ever come to Denerim, I'll make good on those lessons I promised you," she vowed. She placed her hand over her heart, and gave a deep bow to the Mage.

 

Rhys caught up to the others when they paused.  He didn't know Rael at all, having just joined the company, so he merely nodded farewell to her.  "Good luck, and may the Mountain Father bless your endeavor."

 

"And you as well, serah," Rael replied with a nod of her own.

[obsessedwjpn]

Mercuriel was glad to be rid of the drunkard. However, it wasn't long before he escaped one situation and was thrust headlong into another. It seemed that Rael was leaving them in search of her brother or some such thing. First Etienne and now Rael. Was she leaving because of Etienne, perhaps? He pondered this for a moment before realizing he only had his suspicions. 

 

Dog offered Rael a farewell before Mercuriel did. The mabari walked over, his tail wagging, and licked her hand with his long tongue in a show of fond regards. Mercuriel followed up this display with a dashing smile and his usual charm.

 

"Well, you always knew how to catch a gentleman's eye," Mercuriel gestured to the young man standing next to Rael. "Including my own," he chuckled heartily and winked at her. He bowed just slightly. "Best of luck to you on your travels, my elven sister. Your beautiful presence graced us for only a short time but it enlightened all of us."

 

He moved back to stand with Rhys.

[berelinde]

Once Rael had rejoined her love, Beldin saluted them both and said, "I will. Maker's blessings go with you."