Elowyn was heading for the training grounds when she saw Publius coming towards her. There was no avoiding him. She braced herself for one of his unpleasant jibes. To her surprise, he gave her a big grin and asked her how her day was going.
“Are you okay?” she asked suspiciously.
“I’m excellent!” he declared.
“Any particular reason for your good mood?” she asked. He obviously had some good news – he was practically bursting with it.
“You’ve heard about my engagement?” he asked.
“Umm, no, I’m afraid I’ve been a bit preoccupied.”
“Miriel and I are contracted to marry!” he said, beaming.
“Miriel… Vaellanius? Wow, congratulations! So, part of the family now? That is good news.” Elowyn wondered how Miriel felt about it, but she wasn’t about to bring Publius down – his friendly behavior was a welcome change. Funny how Tevinter was all about contracts: slave contracts, marriage contracts, immigration papers – all made work for the archivists.
“Publius, about my promotion – I wanted to assure you that I didn’t ask for it,” she explained.
Expecting some harsh words, she was shocked when he simply patted her on the shoulder and said, “You deserve it. Master Caius explained it to me. Besides, as Miriel’s husband I’ll have new duties and responsibilities.”
“If you have any tips for keeping the other apprentices in line, I’d love to hear them!” laughed Elowyn. She’d never had to manage other mages before.
“Just keep them busy so they can’t get into trouble,” Publius suggested. “idle mages are terrible gossips!”
She wished him well, and he went on his way, whistling. She liked this new Publius! Imagine if they could actually be friends. He hadn’t mentioned her ears once in the entire conversation.
“He hasn’t gotten any nookie yet, and he’s already whistling,” said a voice behind her.
She turned to look. “Vel!” she said in surprise, a smile breaking out on her face.
“Oh, so you remembered my name,” he said. “Thought someone else had turned your head.”
“If you can count a tree as a rival, I guess you’re right,” she replied.
“Huh?” he asked, puzzled. “Is that some figure of speech?”
She laughed. “No, just a strange experience in the Fade.”
“I see. It’s a mage thing.”
“It’s not some secret club, you know.”
“Yeah, well we mundanes don’t get to traipse across the Veil and hang out with demons on a regular basis.”
“Be glad for it,” she said. “You also don’t need to fear possession and having your head separated from your shoulders.”
“Anyone who works for Caius should worry for his head,” said Vel with a grimace.
“How was your time with the troops?” asked Elowyn.
Vel shrugged. “You know how I feel about strategy versus tactics. I like to get things done, not talk about them endlessly.”
“That’s where Publius comes in – he loves that stuff!” laughed Elowyn. “I expect you’ve heard his news?”
“Indeed! It falls to me to plan his stag night.” Vel waggled his eyebrows.
“It makes me wish I could attend! Perhaps I should dress in drag?”
“My dear, there is no way in Thedas you could pass as a man,” said Vel, looking her up and down.
“Aww, surely I could dress as a boy?”
Vel’s gaze lingered on her chest. “’Fraid not, missy, not without a great deal of bandages. Nope, the ladies shall not invade our night of revelry! Not those wearing bandages, anyway.” Vel winked.
“Perhaps I should take Miriel out for a bit of fun then? I hear some male slaves of my race are quite talented… dancers,” she said suggestively.
Vel whistled. “Just don’t tell Publius! He’s old-fashioned about bridal pucelage.”
“He thinks Miriel an innocent? Caius’ daughter?!” asked Elowyn incredulously. She’d heard stories of the wild ways of the Magister’s daughters.
“You know, that gives me an idea for a song! Yes, I’ll compose a little ditty for the stag party!”
“I’ll have to warn Miriel to play the part of the spotless maiden,” said Elowyn.
“I’m sure you can find her at that rascal Monkai’s house,” laughed Vel.
“Oh, dear!” said Elowyn, laughing.
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