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Fandom Dragon Age: Inquisition Reformed (Open & Accepting)

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Numerious was of smile and charm keeping pleasant while noticing each companions face, expresional posture as they wore their fancy dress. They all looked fine, good really, but the faces were about priceless as they came. Though he could understand it, the attire wasn't his first choice but one would do what's necessary for a political game of chess and dress, no?

Looking toward Keenan with a smile and soft chuckle. He bowed his head in thanks while responding in kind after looking to Keenan's own attire for the evening. "It's a gift of experience and finding ways to make things look good... But really Keenan, you look fine. I'm sure many ladies will agree and men too if that's your style." He spoke in turn with chuckle. But appreciated the compliment. While he then turned toward Vunora and nodded, noting how beautiful she looked and the others. But couldn't help but hear her giggling now since he'd arrived in catching up with the group.

It was curious to him but his eyes and ear turned to Evelyn as she spoke, his smile perked up a tad more and charm aiming to return to fuller show. He was about to respond and remark on how beautiful she looked....

But suddenly the scene changed from noting the fancy dress attire from each person and about to reply to Evie. Now antivan crows were about the area with smoke filling the air, Miranda protesting, acid flasks and freeze bombs, daggers and voices. Really it was chaotic, obscured of vision, Numerious was about to act though his vision wasn't clear he imagined they were within a certain and limited range at first.

He didn't have his staff, but had the right spell to cut off any exit and keep them trapped within a lightning based sphere with a watchful orb that prevented people from escaping the sphere of lighting and used electrical shocks strong enough to ward off exiting the spells reach.

But before it was possible to act and cast the spell in hopes to catch them in his trap, they vanished and was known Keenan was stuck in ice until Ayens Fire. Max was busy from returning to his senses after taking a shot to the mid section and all hell seemed to break loose within a seemingly brief period.

Before Numerious could see clearly again and ensure his spells chances, Zevran and Sandro were off in chase of the crows before falling to the antivan assassins ways. They disapppeared and Miranda was unfortunately caught within their web of control.

Numerious was rather angered by the situation, losing a battle before he could even take part. He saw Evelyn with a few cuts and some blood... Companions talking over the situation while the mage listened and thought.

Max had said Vunora was with him for the party and appearances. Her dancing was key. Tasuki was right and had some fair points. While each were open to either team basically, Keenan was set to join the party and gather Intel it seemed. Sul was proficient with spears and bows.... but willing for either team.

Numerious being a Magister and experienced with assassins, attempts on his life and playing the game of politics knew well of the situation. It was different from those he had experienced, yes. But similar enough.

While others spoke and though he wasn't in charge. Numerious had ideas to offer in sharing of his experience, knowing the situation and what was required to accomplish this without arousing suspicion and attention. So he decided to speak up and offer his own thoughts on the matter.

Without intention to intrude of course.

"These are all well and good offers. Glad to see willingness for either team, Tasuki raised some valid points. But if I may?" Numerious began trying to show input, certainty and clarity of thought in his coming words and that what he spoke already. He often tried in every case after all.... He did love chess and did have past encounters with such quests. "Sandro and Zevran know Antiva better then anyone here, they know the crows. You sir Inquisitor know you'll be needed at the party to keep up appearances without failure of others notice of your absence. Vunora would be at your side. But I see others who offer the best opportunity to exploit every angle, aspect of this case we find ourselves in. Young Miranda, Princess Miranda require our best efforts less she get caught in a unfortunate situation."

"Kyra is from the avvar... Who better outside of Dalish hunters would there be for this operation? She's excellent in her field I bet. She would be your best tracker for Sandro and Zevrans team. Tasuki mentioned need of a warrior, he heads the alliance yes? He knows or should how to move groups quietly when necessary, I wager? He's the man for team Sandro. Mages while useful attract attention easily despite care not to, spells can be loud and what they hit will add to that. They also are bright, different then normal occurrences and quite appealing to the curious who notice even from a distance no? I say Serenity while experienced with politics and the game. Would prove the best mage for Sandros team if Vunora a healer is with you. She's used to martial combat of magic and swords, right? She help fight but also make less sound and notice of spell in my opinion. They would be your best additions to Sandro to make use of here. While I, Evelyn both knowledgeable can provide capable sleuths and experience to the party. We might just find ways of distracting, luring and all around gathering vital information and useful tools for this quest. Keenan and Ayen can help this side of the coin as well, Evelyn could help Keenan while staying to Antivan ways of women and the roles they have here. Ayen with Vunora perhaps? I can mingle here and there and do what you see fit Inquisitor. While Sul could provide range on either team... Though I'm certain a assassin of our own at the ball will be necessary, he could dance and mingle as well as any i wager, might draw curious eye there from nobles and the queen to see a Qunari present and enjoying the party. But he could prove vital also, in following Sandro and Zevran. Hide in the shadows and eliminate any threats from afar and out of sight?"

Numerious concluded in saying. Offering his thoughts as politely and respectful as possible to avoid intruding over his bounds limit. But he thought it was important to say something instead of slipping back into his quiet manner as of late.

"I do apologize for the intrusion and seeming take charge manners displayed. Just thought I'd offer my opinion as my experience somewhat relates here."

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" Thank you for that wise advisement Numerious. It's settled then. Vunora, Serenity, Keenan, Numerious, and Evelyn come with me. Tasuki, Ayen, Kyra, and Sul will go with Alessandro." Max nodded. " Alright, you are all dismissed. Those of you with Alessandro go get dressed in something more appropriate and ready your weapons... those going to the ball... follow me into the pit."

AUDIO


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The ballroom practically glowed in dazzling golds and reds. Tropical flowers ushered in the new season and a glittering array of elaborate lighting lit the room as if the summer sun itself had been summoned within its walls. The floor was an elaborate design of colorful blue tiles that reflected to mimic the ocean dotted with yellows and greens for life. Everyone was gathered in flashy costumes- some danced, some chatted over glasses of fine wine, others filled the air with a fragrant musk from their cigars. The music from the band echoed off the walls in beautiful sharp pitches from the Antivan guitar.

The Inquisitor along with his party made their grand entrance, looking down upon the crowd below from atop the staircase as they received their formal announcements.

" Presenting!"
The announcer cleared his throat and lifted up the list of names Max had provided for him.
" Inquisitor Maximilian of the Noble Ferelden House Trevelyan."
Stepping forward, Max gave a small bow before making his way into the crowd.
" Señora Evelyn Faux, Orlesian Ambassador to the Inquisition."
" Señor Keenan Dunmar, Grey Warden Ambassador to the Inquisition. Accompanied by his Mabari Warhound
...Blue Bell."
" Magister Numerious Agorix, Tivinter Ambassador to the Inquisition."
" Princess Serenity Alabast , Rivian Ambassador to the Inquisition."
" Señora Vunora of Clan Al- Al-have-lan , Dalish Ambassador to the Inquisition."


Vunora went to correct his pronunciation but a quick shake of the head from Max below told her not to. She imitated Serenity's curtsy before trotting down the steps to them as quickly as possible. The murmurs had already started and she was not eager to embarrass herself more than what was inevitable. Of course, it did help with her tension when Max assured her that everyone was being spoken about here.

" Evelyn is an Orlesian Lady, Keenan is a handsome man with a mabari, Numerious is a Tivinter Magister, Serenity is a princess, you are Dalish, and I am the damn Inquisitor." Max chuckled quietly to her, patting her on the shoulder briefly. " You'll be fine." He had to admit though, next to maybe Numerious the gossip about her was the nastiest. He had heard the word 'savage' at least twice now and she had only just gotten on the floor.

" Numerious, remember if anyone gives you trouble that we stand-" He had been trying to comfort his friend, but suddenly his mouth dried up like it had been stuffed with cotton and his eyes grew wide. There she was.

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Josphine Montilyet

It had been almost a year since he had seen her last and she looked at lovely as ever. " I uh- we're... I'm sorry what was I saying?" He laughed nervously and rubbed the back of his neck like a school boy caught without the answer.

Vunora decided to stick by the laides, looking to Evelyn and Serenity like a lost puppy. " What do I do? What don't I do!?" Men were already looking over in their direction and she had no idea how to handle them should they approach. It was no different for the men of the Inquisition. Women were already enthusiastically fluttering fans in their direction hoping to catch one of their eyes. Where Orlaisians were all about the mask, Antivan women were all about their fans. There was an entire language to it all. Vunora, Evelyn, and Serenity all had fans to match their ensambles so they could communicate properly- if they knew how. Vunora had just been holding hers tightly out of nerves, which was unknowingly the only thing keeping men away. A fan clasped tightly closed in
one's hand meant you were not open for discussion.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

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Keenan thumbed in the direction of Zevran, looking to the inquisitor. "Are you sure we can trust him?" But it seemed Alessandro did, and that would have to be good enough.
Numerious broke the situation down well and he agreed with most of the choices. Then the inquisitor gave the orders and Keenan found himself moving to obey.
"Inquisitor, I do not know if this will help, but Blue has an extraordinary sense of smell, if that might link anyone at the party to what just happened here then let's put her to work."

Keenan stood just behind the inquisitor as their names were given, he smiled to himself as his dog was announced as well. Blue seemed to understand the gravity of the situation and stood, nose up and regal, ignoring the impressed looks thrown in her direction (it could also have been she was keying in to Keenan's dislike of the entire situation).
He tried not to bristle as he caught snippets of conversation that held derogatory comments toward his friends, instead focusing on keeping his head high and a proud yet disinterested expression on his face. Numerious had been right at least, with the more-than-interested looks Keenan caught from some of the guests. He wasn't sure if he wanted that sort of attention from any Antivan, man or woman and did his best to move along before they plucked up the courage to speak to him.
It was quite a surprise when Josephine Montilyet appeared in the midst of the sea of gold and lace. He hid a smile as the inquisitor failed to keep himself together. Keenan decided to come to the rescue, practicing the words in his head before he spoke them:
"Your reputation precedes you lady Montilyet, I've heard a little about your monumental efforts with the inquisition. Tell me, what has been keeping you busy as of late?"
He glanced sideways at the Inquisitor with a look that said: 'we should ask her for help'.
Keenan for one had no idea where to begin. He knew nothing of the court, nothing of the players of this shadowy game or what each was playing for. He at least would need information before he began to do any work.
Keenan glanced back to the girls instinctively then, making sure the attentions payed them were not unwanted.

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She was not the happiest to hear that she was going to be stuck in the uncomfortable dress and unnecessarily tight corset for the remainder of the party but it was nothing she did not anticipate. With as deep and calm a breath as she could muster in the rib crushing garment, Serenity fallowed the Inquisitor through the doors and to the party where her right violet eye twitched when she was announced. She hated the title as it was only for appearances. If anyone in the noble court knew she was a mage she would be forced back into the circle and that was not where she wanted to be because if she were taken back she would be made tranquil. Her mind forever cut off from the fade and she would be quite empty. This was going to be very tiresome.

She could hear the cruel whispers and murmurs as they walked in but what got to her most was them calling Vunora savage. It was both rude and disgraceful. Being a master with her ice magic she could be very subtle. The two people that said the word "savage" found they quickly got a brain freeze and those with worse comments got worse brain freezes so that all they were complaining about was the pain and cold. Only those in the group would guess it was her doing it as a little revenge and control for their rudeness. How she pulled that off was a subtle and soft gesture of her hand down at her side that didn't appear to do anything out of the ordinary but the subtle movement allowed her magic to flow and her lovely blue fan hid the smirk on her face when they complained about the pain. "Serves them right. They should learn to hold their tongues." she whispered to herself. It was one of the few things she enjoyed about these parties. She could use her magic to teach manners without anyone even knowing.

Once they were settled into the extravagant room Serenity noticed Vunora's nervousness. She understood that feeling all too well. She gently placed a calm and steady hand on the older woman's arm in comfort. "Calm down, Vunora. You'll be fine. Just relax a little bit first. Take a few deep breaths and ignore everyone else for a minute." she suggested first and once she got the older elven woman to calm down she began to explain a bit about Antivan culture and how to blend in a bit. "First off, don't be so nervous. If you're so tense and scared they will pick up on it, much like wolves. The more confidence you have in yourself the less chance they have of tearing you down. Next, your fan. If you take a glance around you'll see that all the ladies have one, even Evelyn and I." she said and gestured to her own fan and showed her by opening it up then closing it. "Your fan says a lot without you having to say a word. The way you're clinging to it and clasping it closed so tightly means that you are not open for talking to and not to be approached. You see how those girls are fluttering their fans like that? They're saying that they want attention and are trying to get the men to approach them. There's a lot to learn but just stay near Evelyn and me and we'll teach you what we can as the night goes on, okay?"

It was strange. She was the youngest of the inquisition group and yet she acted like someone much older. It seems her youth and childhood were stolen from her and made her act so much older than she should be. Normal girls her age were dancing and being flirtatious with every man in the room but she was acting like a proper, high-born, noble lady. Not only that but she was in the Inquisition and could not afford to be childish or soft.



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Tasuki was so very glad to hear that he would not have to wear the suit for much longer and could get comfortable clothes on and not be seen like this. He wanted to cheer and jump for joy, though the one downside was he wouldn't get to dance with Kyra like this. That was the only draw back but he hoped he would get the chance later. Even if they weren't all dressed up. "Thank the Maker!" he said in relief and turned to Kyra for a moment with a smile, "As lovely as you are in the dress, I personally prefer comfort over fashion, don't you?" he asked her and complimented her at the same time.

He then glanced over at Serenity who didn't seem all that happy to be staying in the pretty dress and gown. He wondered why as she had always wanted to got to parties when they were growing up. He just didn't understand but left it alone and figured that would be a topic for another day. He was just so happy to get out of this weird suit. The seems were a bit tight and he felt like he had a wedge for the past hour now. So very uncomfortable but he would deal with it for the time being.

He quickly made his way into his room and got into his signature red shirt and black pants with brown boots and a black sash around his waist. He was much more comfortable now and he didn't have to wear his hair properly so he ruffled the ruby red strands playfully before picking up his sword and shield. Making his way back to the garden he saw that half of the group had left already and he was the first one to return in comfortable clothing. He looked over at Zevran and kind of was curious. He had heard stories about the elven assassin from the Crows but after that there wasn't much heard from him and wondered where he had gone after that story. He was tempted to ask but kept his mouth shut instead.



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SUL ORNAY
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Crossing his hands infront of him, he listened closely to the words of Numerius, nodding in agreement to his statement. He could go anywhere, really. A Qunari would be quite a treat to see at the ball but they also needed some distance to their attacks.
As it was announced he would go with the team that would be outside the ball, Sul right away undone the buttons on his leather coat, gasping with relief and getting a good breath in, stretching his arms to their full capacity. Rubbing his arms in the chill night air he straightened his height to his full stature of 6ft.
________________________

He practically jumped out his clothing as soon as he entered his room. Going through his travel bags, he took out a large black dufflebag and a redwood weapon case that had a handle on it. First he put on his armor, which was a lovely mix of black, teal and gold; his signature colors but in different amount of it. Tightening the straps to the waist band, he pulled his hair up and looked over to the weapon case, admiration falling across his face. Flicking open the case, inside was a beautiful bow and a single knife; for he did not want to bring his spear, as it would be too clunky to bring along.
Tucking the knife into his belt and gathering his quiver, he slung the bow and quiver onto his back and stood just outside his room, adjusting his sleeves and waiting for the order to move out by Alessandro.

Spotting a redheaded man looking rearing to go, he made his way over to the man and bowed his head quietly,"Tasuki, correct? " he smiled and peered at his shield, admiring it briefly before looking towards the courtyard again,"I am unsure if we had been properly introduced yet. I like to know the people we are going to be swinging weapons and slinging arrows around." he chuckled quietly.
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Alessandro, Zevran Arainai
Time: Day
Place: Antiva
Characters: Everyone
Tag: Oenanthe Oenanthe , SerenityAngel SerenityAngel , SilverFlight SilverFlight , The Silent Z The Silent Z , nettie. nettie. , stepherz345 stepherz345 , Vys Vys

"- I am sorry for the embarrassment, lady and gentlemen, that shouldn't happen. Sneaky bastard Romario! I am Zevran Arainai, adventurer, lover, former assassin, current freelancer. I'm here to aid Sandro because we have a common enemy and... I was in the neighborhood."

Zevran said while coming from behind of Sandro to introduce himself. And before he could finish himself, he found the sight of Vunora and approached her with haste.

"- Or maybe we have more in commons..." - The elf rogue said with a seductive voice toward the Dalish mage.

"- Be serious Zevran , or I swear to the Maker I will..." - Sandro raised his voice from the back while pulled Zevran back.

"- Okay okay! Back to the matter. About the young girl... I believe he brought her to Velabanchel, one of their notorious prison. I know the way in and I can lead you there. But you can expect us to just simply walk there. We maybe a team with... certain abilities."

Sandro listened the everybody opinions as he also formed his own in his mind. Numerous was quite helpful and quick when he gave Sandro lots of options and analyzed them well. In the end, he was satisfied with the selections that Max made, having Tasuki, Ayen, Kyra, and Sul in his group to save the princess.

"- Going to Velabanchel, we know for sure that they will be waiting for us. It's far more dangerous than being here... Everyone prepare quickly, we'll leave right now."

Sandro told his group as he and Zevran also prepared their blades and poison for one visit at the prison Velabanchel.

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Velabanchel, the infamous and feared prison, where the Antivan Crows incarcerate victims for "fun and torture". The prison's reputation has earned it the nickname, "The house of graves".

Zevran led the group into the west of the notorious prison of the crow, where they found an opened window with a guard on patrol.

"- That's our opening. This would be the quickest way into the center of the prison. Where they held the princess, I don't know but if she's such an important character than she should be lock in the middle. But that would be also likely to be a trap." - Zevran said to the group

"- Then let's find out." - Sandro said before he quickly landed into the window. With great haste, he put the wire in his hand around the guard's neck and pulled with strength. Within a moment, the guard was strangled to his death.

"- Rare to find you so... impatient, Sandro." - Zevran said as he saw how eager the Antivan spymaster of the Inquisition was to get into the prison.

In side Velabanchel, they passed many prison rooms yet couldn't find Miranda. The more he searched, the more Sandro worried. As they finally reached the highest floor of Velebanchel, Sandro gad an odd feeling, he felt like the great prison was too quiet for such night, especially when he and his team could walk inside so easily without any trap or heavily guard. But before he could've come to a conclusion...

*SOUND OF METAL GATE CRASH*

Suddenly, before they could've done anything, a gate from behind shut tight, locked them inside a wide hall. It was also from the other end of the hall.. someone walked in. With his black mask and the Crow heraldry, his huge physical build, everyone quickly recognized the man who walked in, it was the Crow Talon Romario, the one who attacked the Inquisitor earlier. Behind him, there were just 4 more people behind, but needless to say they're also top rank assassins in the Crow.

"- Sandro... You finally came. The little thing is waiting for you. - Romario

"- She's just a young girl... What role can she hold in your plan ?" - Sandro

"- Look at you, come all the way just for a little girl... You're no longer the Alessandro that we're all feared. You were one of us, you were potential, you were ... perfect. But you're weak now."

As Romario continued, he tried to bring out Sandro's past, the part where the spymaster himself had tried to hide it away from this world.

"But I do love a good story, the man who once was the best assassin for the Crow now coming back trying to stop the Crow. And killing either you or the little thing inside would be too easy. I'll challenge you. If you can answer to my challenge, you will have the girl back. If you lose, the girl die..."

Knowing the life of Miranda was in the hand of the Crow, Sandro didn't take risk.

"- Behind this room is where I lock up the girl. But I started to pump in a poisoned gas a few moment ago and in a few hours she may died if she keep breath the air in there. The lock to the room is something special, it can only be only by 5 keys together. All of those key are currently in my hand and the hand of my fellow Crow here." - As Romario said, 4 of his assassins walked toward "- If you want them, you would have to kill all 5 of us for it."

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Before the circle mage Ayen could've observe his enemy and consider his tactic, he was approached by one of the Crow, it was also an elven mage.
"- Tell me... are you Dalish or Circle mage ?"
The female elven mage asked Ayen, but before he could answer, she used a knife to cut over her vein. As her blood poured out and the aura surround her turned red, Ayen realized it was blood magic.
"- My name is Malora. Once I was a Dalish too, but they banished me... now I am belong to something far far greater..."
As she activated blood magic, the blood mage Malora cast a thunderbolt toward Ayen.

*Write the next post on how you defeat Malora the blood mage and take the key from her to save princess Miranda*

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"- You seem to be a worthy opponent. Let's get this over with..."

Walked toward to face Tasuki was the man second to the Talon Romario, his younger brother Franco. He was as ruthless and cunning has his brother. Franco raised his mace and sword ready to fight Tasuki.

*Write the next post on how you defeat Franco the Crow assassin warrior and take the key from him to save princess Miranda*

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"- You're a Qunari... I'll fight you."

Sul Ornay was the one who immediately got the attention of Roland the Rage, whom got his nickname for his infamous brutality in both combat and assassination. A decent brawl with a qunari was something he seek.

*Write the next post on how you defeat Roland the Berserker and take the key from him to save princess Miranda*

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"- An Avvarian... I heard when your people fighting, you do so for your god... Show me..."

Slowly walked toward Kyra with her staff, Irma was ready and focus to her opponent.

*Write the next post on how you defeat Irma and take the key from her to save princess Miranda*

With everyone engaged their opponents, Romario quickly approached Sandro :'- Look like it's you and me again, old friend."


 
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There was a whole lot about this situation Tasuki didn't like. He didn't like being split up because it halved their chances of success and he worried that the princess would be hurt or worse by the time they got there. This whole party was a bad idea to come in the first place but it was unavoidable he guessed. He was soon addressed by the Qunari who asked to know a little bit about him. "Uh, yeah. I'm Tasuki. I'm an ex-Templar and leader for the rebel mages and Templars. It's uh, nice to meet you formally I guess, though the situation leaves a lot to be desired." he said. He observed the Qunari and he had to admit, from either gender, the guy was quite.....pretty? Attractive? That could be a good word for it.

After heading out he started to get into the mind set of battle and stealth. He had done a lot of infiltrations like this in the towers. He had to find ways to get oppressed mages out of their without them being found and made tranquil. So this was nothing new to him at all. He adjusted his Templar shield so that it was easier to carry and not get snagged on anything and he gripped his Starfang sword in his free hand tightly. He fallowed the others and took care of what opponents they came across along the way. They didn't seem all that tough to him though.

Upon being caught in a bit of a trap Tasuki's guard went up ten fold and soon was faced with a strong-looking opponent. This opponent looked strong with his mace in his hand and air of strength but Tasuki was not intimidated at all. "It will be an honor to defeat you in battle if you can give me a real fight, but seeing as you'd back up a man who kidnaps a young girl, I doubt you have enough honor to fight fairly so indeed, let's get this over with." he replied and thus his battle began. From the first clash of weapons, the metal rang out loudly through the room. Both warriors going out full strength. The power behind the mace swings was incredible and hit his shield pretty well, trying to dislodge it but Tasuki was not going to let go of it and leave himself vulnerable.

The two exchanged blow after blow but Tasuki's slightly bigger form gave him a bit of leverage and was able to pack in a harder punch. The assassin tried to blind him with dust or poisons but Tasuki didn't always rely on his eyes, though they now burned for a bit he powered through it and managed to use his shield to knock the big guy on the ground and he stomped heavily on the man's arm that held the mace so he would release it and kicked it away before pinning the man down with his boot in the center of his chest and the nearly glowing blade pointed at the man's throat. "Hand over the key, now, and I'll spare your life." he said panting a bit even though his eyes stung and would need washing out when he got the chance before he went blind. Eventually the man gave up his key and as Tasuki promised, he spared the man's life but kicked his head hard so the guy went unconscious so he would not stab him in the back if the chance was given. He was now a bit battered and bruised but still ready for more action if needed. "Well, I've got my key. Anyone else?"



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Numerious was seen moving toward the hall upon nodding to the Inquisitor in response to his reply after the Tevinter mage shared his thoughts. He came to hear his own name called in introduction and gave smile to the observers and moved gracefully as one male could across the floor in paced step.

The party wasn't quite as unusual to others. It didn't take long for comments to make their way onto the scene, spreading through the air in faked whispers and murmurs, whispers and what not. Just as normal and common as ones breath when it came to such political gatherings in these forms with dances, balls and royal halls.

It was expected really. Numerious was no stranger to comments and rumors, gossip and whatever else one could out together and cast into the air verbally or quietly.

"It's all within my experience. Tevinters have a reputation and I've heard it all before, they will need something to new and rather impressive to get under my skin though. But my thanks Inquisitor..."

Numerious replied knowing Max's intention and picked up the sudden change, a pause maybe, Josephine Montilyet... Former ambassador for the inquisition and close friend to Max himself, Numerious wagered and would not be surprised if more lay between them... Perhaps a crush on Max's part? He looked rather for a loss of words and his eyes wide like a shocked or nervous puppy.

Numerious merely chuckled and gave nod to the lady with a small bow in show to her, before walking forward and about to mingle with the other guests. He figured this would be preferable to the Inquisitor to have more time in private with the lady or least more room?

Meanwhile he felt his presence would be required elsewhere. It was a party after all and though plenty was said about him, the Tevinter..... He wouldn't be dissuaded from interacting, mingling and dancing the night away if necessary, while drinking too.

The man strode across the floor in elegant display, light of foot and smooth. Noticing a group of women with fans waving, eyes looking to those around and giggles here and there amongst the conversation.

Before he moved to them however a man appeared next to him and uttered a few words with a smirk. He thought his comment was rather witty and successful in there intent, though really it was amateur hour. Numerious merely laughed in feigned interest to hide his dislike of the man and his overly strong scent. A cologne or some creation meant to please the senses? It wasn't great for what ever it was.... The mage took from a passing tray a glass of wine or something alcoholic atleast and sipped from its glass.

A smile turning up across his face and eyes gleaming almost. He chuckled a response to the man masking it within a complimentary phrasing, a back handed compliment but rather full of wit and the shared the same intent as the mans own words to him. It didn't take long for silence to strike the fellow and his smirk turn to something else as he walked away.

Meanwhile Numerious finished his drink and set it upon the same tray as it made a return pass. Then walked forward in approach of the ladies appearing as charming and elegant as one could while turning on his old routine.

At first the ladies were smiling but guarded in their reply to him. But soon they were melting like butter in his hands beneath a summer ray and heat.

Soft giggling, eyes pleasantly responding to his words, it wasn't long before he took the hand of the centered girl and they moved to the dance floor. While her two friends looked on with interest.

Numerious knew better then start off with the elite of the party. No, that would have been disastrous no matter how skilled he might be at the game. Instead he picked his target like shark seeking its dinner, a smell of blood in the water to otherwise say had led him to this particular group of ladies. They were pretty, they were young but not too young, obviously open to talk and approach from others, especially men by the way they held and waved their fans before their face. They seemed noticeable in standing within Antiva but not of the royal family or atleast not of the nearest to the throne. They would prove excellent and perfect to his plans and reason for selecting them.

Soon after hitting the floor Numerious began to dance with the girl in slow form. Starting off slow and respectful to the tune and their early knowledge and meeting of one another. He kept his hands in place and let his eyes do the talking, display a passionate side as his steps while slow did the same. Movement and expression of feeling telling the tale as they danced.

After awhile he leaned in allowing his mouth close the distance between her ear and his words. Softly speaking sweet words of honey and small blush inducing release of his comment to her. She seemed to be enjoying herself and his goal was working.

Numerious had every intention to appear charming, sweet and attractive to the other guests. A popular man amongst the ladies who he spoke with so that others would see him in a different light. Take away their defenses just a little in their lowering. Ease and relax the tense while melting the soft and vulnerable with sweet words and actions.

Allowing every step across the floor tell all he needed to say while he sweet talked the lady with him, though pace and passionate form raised as time moved forward.

If the Magister of Tevinter was correct and his plan worked. He could have a successful, easy venture in playing the game and gathering all sorts of information.





 
Ayen understood his mission and quickly left to change back into his normal attire and his staff. Once the group got back together Zevran introduced himself to the group, apologizing for the whole accident. The group followed Alessandro and Zevran led them to Velabanchel. It didn't take long for the assassins to appear before them. The ring leader explained how this was a game, each one of them needed to defeat an enemy and get a key in order to save the girls life.Ayen enemy was a female mage who introduced herself as Malora, once a Dalish elf but had been banished. You had to do something pretty awful to be banished so he felt no sympathy for the elf.

Then she slit her wrist, blood forming into a demon. He was surprised to see she was able to cast a lightning spell in addition to summoning a demon. Clearly a powerful foe. Ayen created a small fire wall to deflect lightning.From this small encounter he gathered she was confident and using a lot of magic in the beginning to try and overwhelm him. This would tire her out and she would be weak, if the demon was still around it would most likely turn on her. "I am both Circle and Dalish." Ayen replied.

"How curious but no matter, I am far more powerful than you could possibly imagine." Malora said and pointed at Ayen. The shade charged at Ayen's fire wall attacking it with it's claws but flinched in pain as he burned. Ayen used that exact moment to turn his firewall into a vortex to surround the shade, burning it even greater.

"You are weak Malora, needing the assistance of demons to fight your battle." Ayen insulted. Enraged she cast another lightning bolt at Ayen who matched it with a fireball. The flames from the firewall had died and the shade was badly burned but charging him. Ayen created a rather large fireball and threw it at the shade, who screamed in pain as it died. Malora took this chance to attack Ayen with a strong lightning bolt. He grimaced in pain as he body stiffened and the electricity ran through his body.

Although he was in pain he focused preparing a final fire spell. Malora cut her other wrist, blood pooling on the ground, trying to form into a demon. She was starting to falter, loosing all that blood and lyrium was getting to her. Now Ayen was finally able to move. "Goodbye Malora." Ayen said and aimed his staff at her face a flamethrower erupted from the staff and burned the mage before she could defend herself. The gentle roar of the fire helped muffle her cries.

Her body fell onto the ground. Ayen had wanted to offer mercy, but she was far to corrupt by the use of blood magic. It was safer for everyone for her to be defeated. After searching her body he found the key. "I got my key." he said and wiped the sweat off his forehead.

SerenityAngel SerenityAngel Vys Vys Sopranos Sopranos
 
SUL ORNAY
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Sul smiled, his eyes closing pleasantly, his lips upturning to look much like a fat happy cat,"Oh of course but Im sure good drinks and socialization will come after this." dipping his head, he followed the group.

---------------------------

Had taken the back of the group once again, he had his bow in hand, a single arrow notched as his teal eyes flicked around in the dark. A shiver ran down his spine and a small puff of cold breath rose from his mouth. As soon as the gate fell behind them he turned around and drew his bow, meeting gaze with a helmeted brute with two blades. Listening closely to the two men talk back and forth, Sul was surprised that the barbaric man started to come forward, mentioning his race,"Sorry to disappoint but I'm no honorable fight." he released an arrow, having it click against the man's helmet, making him flinch his head away at the loud metallic sound that resonated against his head.
Right away he drew 3 arrows, all tucked in between his fingers. As the man was collecting himself, he got a white feathered arrow dug deeply into his shoulder, blood spraying from the mass of muscle. The man broke it in half and Sul lowered his bow a little."That is improper arrow removal, sir." he released two more; one in the soft abdomen just below the bellybutton and another in between the ribs.
Yelling in pain, the brute rushed forward and raised his blade. Quickly dropping down into a crouch, Sul grabbed the arrow from the abdomen and yanked it off to the right, digging the head more into the flesh.

Countering with grabbing the Qunari's horn, Sul seethed as he was pulled off his feet and was face to helmet with the man. His breath came out through the facial holes of his helmet, smelling like rotted meat and bad mead. Curling his nose, Sul went and kicked the open wound on the man's gut, making him sputter and stumble a little,"Fruity cun-" a profanity didn't get to leave his mouth as a blade buried up between his ribs and was twisted by the politician. Looking down and then up at Sul, the Qunari smiled, winked and gave a little wink at the man,"Fruity is for wine." retching from the man's grasp, he took a moment to adjust his sleeves and hair as the man clutched the knife and attempted to pull it out from his mass.
Sul spotted that and 'tsk'd," No it is rude to take back a gift you get. Were you not taught manners?" walking forward, he almost sadistically touched the end of the hilt, making it twitch in the man,"No backsies. " putting his hands on either side of man's head and grabbing the gate behind him, he heaved himself up and using his weight as a pendulum, he brought his heels into the man's sterum, pinning him against the gate. Blood splattered from inside his helmet and he fell down in a groan. Not dead, but would be soon.

Leaning down to grab his knife and a key that hung on his waist, the man suddenly grabbed his throat and squeezed, making Sul grab his hand and choke a little bit, eyes wide. Barbaric second wind. He couldn't weasel out of this one. He left himself exposed and got cocky.
Weakly shaking off his helmet, the brute curled his nose at the Qunari,"Shitty fight."
Sul gave a strained smirk,"Orry..." he choked, his mouth gaping like a fish out of water.
Looking over to his companions, he hoped for some sort of help as he grabbed for his knife.


The Silent Z The Silent Z Sopranos Sopranos stepherz345 stepherz345 SerenityAngel SerenityAngel
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||Kyra Jerriken||

A curse muttered under Kyra’s breath as the gate slammed shut. A trap had been placed for them - something she was sure they were all expecting. Good thing they had changed out of their evening wear. Though there was little time to waste as the assassin spoke of the Princess.

They were running out of time.

Kyra’s navy blue hues scanned over her opponent, brows knitted together as Irma’s gaze was fixated with her own. Her grip on her staff tightened, her fingers fighting the urge to twitch. Irma appeared to be strong - even carrying the same type of weapon for long range attacks. A staff, something similar to her spear. Her armor was rather heavy - Kyra took into the consideration it would make her slower, but would require many small strikes to do significant damage; let alone being able to actually strike her. Yet, there were openings that the brunette warrior took note of.


The two paced in a circle like wolves snarling for dominance. Kyra remained quiet to the assassin’s snide remark, fueling her anger; this would give Kyra an advantage. “Only cowards hide behind silence.” Irma taunted with a low growl.

Kyra sneered, “Only cowards use the innocent as pawns. They are too weak for the prey they truly seek. You are not worthy of my Gods.” her Avvarian tone was thick and venomous, stirring the rage that simmered well within Irma to fully boil. With a hiss, Irma was the first to attack pulling back her staff and slamming it down with a mighty blow as she quickly appeared before Kyra.

‘Even with her heavy armor, she moves quickly!’


Watching her movements carefully, Kyra was able to deflect most of her strikes. Hitting hard and fast, Kyra dodged what she could and took the hits she believed to be less damaging; using the leather on her arms to take most of the damage. Wanting to weaken her opponent before striking herself. She knew Irma had the upper hand, but with how quickly and unyielding her attacks were, it would only be a matter of time before she became winded - tired from the effort.The second Irma took too long to collect herself would be when Kyra struck.

And soon it was exposed.

A brief window opened, seeing Irma stumble slightly as she came down with another swing of her staff. Kyra used her spear to dodge her attack. Launching herself to the side, Kyra struck Irma in she side where her armor was ajar; hitting several ribs. As the assassin turned to face her, Kyra shoved her foot against her chest plate causing her to stumble back. Her near fall, uncovered the key strung around her neck.

Like a hawk, Kyra’s fingers swiftly reached for the key grabbing it once she felt the chill of the metal against her palm. Clasped in her hand, she jerked back maneuvering around Irma and holding her spear across her throat from behind. The assassin squirmed against Kyra’s chest as her grip tightened; dropping her staff, Irma clawed at her neck to find anyways to catch her breath.

But all too late as a soft crack echoed in the dungeon before Irma fell limply to Kyra’s feet. Using the tip of her spear to cut the key free Kyra stood upright, “Do not bare your teeth if you are not willing to use them.” she muttered. Her attention caught as heard the sound of choking not too far from her.

If would seem their Qunari companion was in trouble.

His opponent however was massive. Kyra however, without a second thought, rushed the brute male. Jumping on his back, taking him by surprise. Dropping her spear, she unsheathed a dagger strapped to her hip and jabbed into his shoulder blade. A beastly roar escaped his lungs, releasing the Qunari and fixating his attention on Kyra. His arms flailed back to reach her, but with no avail.

He stumbled back into the concrete walls, slamming her between the stone and his massive body. Her head struck a loose rock causing her to let go and fall to the ground in a daze, her vision blurred as she looked up to the giant. A low chuckle echoed behind his mask;

“Puny woman.” he bellowed.
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Vys Vys Oenanthe Oenanthe SilverFlight SilverFlight stepherz345 stepherz345 Sopranos Sopranos SerenityAngel SerenityAngel The Silent Z The Silent Z
 
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SUL ORNAY
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His eyes started to roll back as the man choked him out, a small smirk spreading on his face. /Is this how I'm going to die? Choked by a nasty smelling man?/ a small dribble of drool slipped down his lips and to his neck, fingers giving a strained twitch.

Suddenly the pressure on his windpipe was released and he gasped right away, gasping and shooting a hand up to caress his own throat. Coughing and bowing his head a little, he spotted Kyra hanging on the man's neck. It wasn't until the man turned his attention on her that he stood up, grabbing his throat and rubbing it. His dagger was still in the man's ribs. Coming up from behind, he grabbed the knife and pulled it out, making the man howl in pain. He suddenly turned around to spit at Sul but he countered with a blade in the throat. Sul raised his gloved hand and put it over the man's mouth, eyes narrowing,"Didn't ask my safeword. You are terrible." he teased.
Turning his head smoothly, he followed up with slitting the man's throat gracefully, his face full of serenity as he did so. Letting the man drop, Sul leaned down and wiped his blade clean, grabbing Kyra's and wiping them clean on the man's clothes.

After doing so he went to Kyra and faintly touched her chin, tipping her head to the side,"Didn't mean to drag you into this, missus. But thank you kindly; I owe you a drink." he apologized looking her over before raising a finger,"Hows the vision?"
He wasn't a doctor but he had to at least make sure she could see where she was going, right?

"I have my key!" he turned his head briefly to the others.
The Silent Z The Silent Z Sopranos Sopranos stepherz345 stepherz345 SerenityAngel SerenityAngel
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Once again, Serenity was made to play the game against her desires. She knew she had to keep an eye out for Vunora, even though she was older than her and should know better, but being Dailish it was understandable. "Alright, Vunora, I'm going to walk around a little. I'll be within ear shot so all you have to do is call for me, but not loudly. A lady doesn't raise her voice at a party. Okay?" She then gave one last comforting smile and walked away from the two older women to find her spot in this party. She eventually found it in a bit of a corner where she could hear everything and see everything from a good vantage point but there was also a draw back to this. She could hear everything and what she heard reminded her of home and it wiped all sense of belonging and pride. She heard 'banished princess' 'Rivain's royal shame' 'her father's hated mistake' and other such painful comments and whispers. There was one that called her 'Ice Queen' and that made a small bit of frost edge around her fingers but she eventually recieded it and kept very calm. She rested her closed fan on her left shoulder with her right hand both protectively and to be comfortable while her left hand just kind of held her right side and allowed her right arm to rest against it. She was comfortable but guarded. Her amethyst eyes were cold and distant. She seemed very unapproachable but that didn't stop the foolish and arrogant noble from asking for a dance but when she first refused them they would insult her subtly but she would pick up on it and she would refuse them again but a little less subtly and they would not be able to respond as they were only nobles while she was a royal AND in the Inquisition even if she was a mage and an apostate now. She was not going to give up what little pride she had. She may be young but she was smart, clever and VERY cold. Her pretty face was only her mask. Underneath was the power of winter and twice as unforgiving.


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Tasuki watched the others fight their battles but when he saw Kyra get injured he hurried over to her side to help her up and make sure she was alright. He inspected the blow to the head and with his training and teachings he was able to determine a little bit for at least minor and major injuries. At least enough to get them back to base. He could see that it was possible she had a concussion and instead of letting that hinder her later he pulled out a small flask of elf-root potion and handed it to her, "Here, drink this. It will help." He let Sul attempt to take care of her a little but only while he got into his injury kit to see what he could use to help her recover faster besides the potion. He found a rejuvenation potion in the kit and would use it if it was necessary. He gently examined her head to see if she had a cracked skull or anything but that didn't seem to be the case. It looked to be a light concussion. "You've got a small concussion, but nothing too bad. Just stay awake a while and recover a bit and you should be fine." he said giving his opinion and helped her up to standing. Seeing that Sul had his key now, things were looking up. That was four keys total now. We just need one more." He then glanced over to Alessandro and watched him in case he needed back up. He would not let his comrades down this time. If he could help it, he would help to achieve their goals.


SilverFlight SilverFlight Oenanthe Oenanthe The Silent Z The Silent Z Vys Vys nettie. nettie. stepherz345 stepherz345 NaturalQueen NaturalQueen Sopranos Sopranos
 
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Keenan had resigned himself to standing and watching the more experienced members of the party play the game with adept grace.
A cool touch of envy brushed his heart as he saw the ease at which Numerious worked, flowing amongst the guests and bending them to his subtle will.
It seemed that almost every other gossiping group, plumed and trimmed with lace had a nasty comment to say about one or another of them. He simmered quietly while Blue heaved a bored sigh. The fact was, that not being able to help silence any of these mutterings chafed at his sense of morality. He felt powerless here, and he was not used to feeling powerless.
One thing was largely blatant: Keenan did not belong. Every detail of this golden world screamed the fact and stifled him with its pomp and frivolity.
"My, what an unusual specimen we have here." The voice was as smooth and velvety as the costume worn by its owner, yet it held an edge sharper than a dagger.
"Why yes, it's amazing they let such a shaggy monstrosity into the ballroom."
"Oh quite right, say nothing of the dog!"
Keenan gripped the leather leash a bit more tightly as the tittering laughter came to a stop beside him. With no reputation beyond the wardens, and no connections here, Keenan realized how much of an easy target he was.
It was a man and a woman that approached, the glint in their eyes filled with cruel amusement.
"I hope you haven't brought any pet demons with you also."
The barb stuck. Not everyone knew of the happenings at Adamant, though an experienced information broker would no doubt have acquired and sold the information to anyone willing to pay for it.
"Oh Ravinnia don't speak of such horrible things here, you'll embarrass the poor dear too thoroughly...besides, he might call down his Venatori master to punish us. Look, is that him there?" The man pointed out onto the ballroom floor at Numerious. That was enough.
Keenan didn't bother to excuse himself from their company, he simply turned and walked away. Shame and anger burned inside him. How they could be so casual with their stabbing remarks when the subject had tortured his every thought for so long?

Across the floor a bullish man with a gold doublet eyed the cluster of inquisition women with a wolf-like smile. He was a minor noble in the Antivan court, and regarded as little more than an annoyance to be tolerated by most. His connections had won him a place here, not his manner or standing and he demonstrated his stature clearly by approaching Evelyn and addressing her in the manner that he did:
"I think you would look lovely on my arm. Accompany me onto the dance floor." There was neither question nor expectation of refusal, and he did not wait a moment before reaching for Evelyn's hand.
Keenan was in the meanwhile making his way back to them, still angry and smarting. He caught sight of the brazen way the man stood and spoke to Evelyn. He knew she could handle herself, part of him even wanted to watch and see how she would deal with the repugnant creature, but the chance to take some of his irritation out on the man was too tempting to pass up. Keenan had had enough, and someone was going to know.
The man started in surprise when a firm hand grabbed his wrist before he could take the lady's arm.
Keenan towered over the squat, pudgy noble, his stare like daggers. "I would not address the lady so disrespectfully if I were you." His voice was low and dangerous, and held a quiet fury that clearly stemmed from something more than the man's slight against his friend.
The noble seemed to wither under Keenan's gaze and he backed away before turning to flee, knocking into a server in his attempt to get away.
Keenan continued to glare after him. His usual, lighthearted and gentle countenance was gone. Something had evidently gotten to him, yet he turned to Evelyn to make sure she was all right.
"I think I'll stay nearby if that's all right. In all honestly Lady Faux I've met darkspawn with more agreeable natures than some of the people here."


nettie. nettie.
Oenanthe Oenanthe The Silent Z The Silent Z Sopranos Sopranos SerenityAngel SerenityAngel
 
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Vunora was absolutely steaming. Not only were the rude comments about her galore, she had overheard the comments about Keenan. Looking over at the duo she shot them a furocious glare, which was pitifully unintimidating coming from such a small Dalish woman with an unassuming reputation and a lovely but down to earth gown.

For a moment she considered saying something but soon Keenan was marching their way and her attention was caught by a large man. Thank the gods for Keenan and Blue, between the two of them the man was gone without an incident. She started to say something, but he was talking to Evelyn.

This whole evening had been nothing but uncomfortable and she wished they were back at Skyhold. Dancing by the fire or even more so, she wished she was with her clan. If Ayen was here at least she could speak to him in their native tongue and vent without fear of anyone listening in.

Gently she absently began fanning herself, staring a hole into the floor. But her focal point of choice was soon covered in a shoe and she looked up to see an Antivan man, a few years her senior but with a friendly and unasuming demeanor.
" You look... Uncomfortable." He said in his thick accent.
" I do not think these balls are my thing."
" You are the Dalish woman yes? Do you know how to dance?"
" Of course I do! Do you?"

He bowed and extended a hand to her. She just stared at him, bewildered for a moment before gently putting her hand in his and allowing him to lead her onto the dance floor.

~~~

" Sooooo Josie- erm Josephine would you like me to grab you something to dri-"
They had been conversing back and forth for a few minutes now when suddenly the Antivan woman cut him off with a gasp.
" Oh this is no good! Your Dalish ambassador is dancing with Count Dampierre! Oh I can't watch!"

Count Dampierre was a high ranking noble of great renown. A friendly man in his late thirties with a reputation for his kindness, but not a man to trifle with. He held the attention of any room he entered and gained his wealth through a vast trading empire. By being invited to a dance by him, Vunora had just secured the attention of most any business or gossip minded person in the room. Of course, denying him wouldn't have been much better.

Max looked over and gave out a groan. " Why didn't anyone warn her, I told the girls to watch Vunora!"
" I'm afraid there wouldn't have been much they could have done."
" Lets just hope she dances as well with him as she did with Keenan."

( Roll 1D20 = 17 )

Despite a few fumbles, Vunora had performed dazzlingly and when she did falter the duo had laughed it off. It was a damning performance. From then on out she was hardly allowed to leave the dance floor, for every time a song ended a new gentleman would approach her. Often she even got her pick.

But she wanted so desperately to stop dancing. Max ignored her plea and laughed a little, it was good! It was fantastic! She was doing exactly what needed to be done to not only prove she was not a savage, but leave a good impression of the Inquisition. As was Numerious.
SilverFlight SilverFlight The Silent Z The Silent Z SerenityAngel SerenityAngel nettie. nettie.
 
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||Kyra Jerriken||

The Avvarian woman’s head hung low. The throbbing pain pounded against her skull. Instinctively she reached to the source of the pain. Wincing as her fingers came to touch the laceration between her thick tousles. A warm liquid cooled by the dungeons draft was red as her blurred vision focused on her fingers that were brought to her face. Blood. Her blood to be exact.


Kyra groaned as a delicate touch came to her chin to avert her face. Tenderly moving her head side to side. She was in no condition to fight as she normally would. Her strength was wavering due to her concussion as Tasuki had come to conclude. Her eyes fluttered, half-lidded in pain as she focused on the Qunari knelt before her;

“I could use it now,” she murmured with a dry amusement through gritted teeth answering Sul’s inquiry. Her eyes followed his finger straining to keep up with his movement, “It’s a bit… You’re just holding up one finger aren’t you.”

She took the Templar’s aid, and stood beside him, swaying slightly on her heels before finding her center; involuntarily grabbing the armor around his shoulder to make the world stop spinning.


“We need to hurry -” she took her dagger from Sul, “I don’t know how much longer the Princess will last if not…”

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||Evelyn Faux||

Evelyn excused herself from Serenity and Vunora - she was in need of a drink. Far from being parched, she made her way to one of the many tables adorned with golden platters and utensils. She gently tapped her chin with her fan, her sapphire gaze glanced over her options. Antivan wine wasn’t exactly her favorite to say. She wasn’t much of drinker as she didn’t have a high tolerance for alcohol. But if it beckoned to her.

Grabbing a goblet from the steward, she gave a nod before turning her gaze to the floor. She’d heard many whispered of the men behind her. None were nor more than animals. They critiqued her physique to her nationality; earning a small eye roll as she sipped her wine.

Not to mention the rumors that fell on hushed lips as they watched the Inquisition.


Such remarks that surely spoken of the former party. The Inquisition was an open faction; it took help from all forms regardless of race, gender, or affiliation. If a person had proved worth and willing to compromise, one was almost assured a position within its caucus. After the breach had been sealed and Corypheus had been defeated - it was seen as a threat. A part of a political party that was more popular among the people than the previous. It was deemed too powerful.

An excuse.

Her eyes fell on Numerious who’d found himself a lively dance partner. A thin smile came to form on her lips. Sweet nothings whispered into her ears, brushing off her blush with a fit of giggles. Maybe the Trevene Mage was more knowledgeable of the game than he’d originally let on.


“My my - what a beautiful sight.” a voice came to Evelyn’s ear. She disregarded the burly tone and continued to sip her wine. Much like a child, he was not used to being ignored. He tried once more, “The Maker must have spent a great deal of time on a creature such as yourself -”

Evelyn remained quiet. Taking another sip from her cup.


“Are you..I’m trying to have a conversation with you.” his tone growing more impatient.

“And I’m trying to subtly ignore you.”


"I think you would look lovely on my arm. Accompany me onto the dance floor."

Feeling his hand grasp her hand that clasped around her closed fan caused her eyes to widen; turning to look the Antivan man in the eyes. His demand was becoming troublesome and Evelyn’s patience was running thin. She carefully turned to put her goblet down on the table behind her, not averting his gaze as a sinister smile crept over his dried lips.

A noble undoubtedly. A rather unsightly one at that. Easy prey for someone like Evelyn. He knew not what he was in for. A smile so sweet formed upon her features, however, once she opened her mouth to speak she found Keenan beside her;


"I would not address the lady so disrespectfully if I were you."

Her eyes fluttered. This was new. Certainly out of character for the Warden. His demeanor that was to say. Standing up for a fair maiden’s honor was suspected, but his person seemed irate as he stared bitterly at the noble. This was a side of the Warden she was sure he’d only shown Darkspawn.


After a moment, her wrist was free. The man recoiled like a dog with its tail between its legs before taking off in a scurry knocking the servants out of the way.

"I think I'll stay nearby if that's all right. In all honestly Lady Faux I've met darkspawn with more agreeable natures than some of the people here."

Evelyn’s hands fell into her lap as she flashed an appreciative smile, “My, Keenan, are you alright?” she inquired curiously. Something had surely caused him upset, more than the male who’d tried to force himself on her. Or so she assumed, “If anything, you probably saved him.” she chuckled, jesting in hopes to lighten his mood. “My method of ridding him would have been heavily frowned upon - well, by Max anyways.”

She placed a placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, “Thank you. For both.”

It was then she glanced over her shoulder to see Vunora - dancing. Her free hand went to cover her lips. She’d been away from her side for too long! Judging from his attire he and gawking of the crowd, he was a well known and highly thought of noble.

“Count Dampierre.” she muffled behind her hand, “Looks like Max will still be unpleased with me.”

Linking her arm with Keenan’s, she ushered him to the sidelines to get a closer look at Vunora’s performance. She prayed to the maker that all would be well. Surely it would. Vunora was a lovely dancer. And as it would show, she had delighted the Count. Yet song after song, it would prove that she was quite popular. With each song, another partner wished to share a dance with the elven maiden.

“She doesn’t appear to be having fun anymore.” she chuckled beside Keenan.
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Kyra immediately jumped to Sul's rescue. Tasuki concluded that everyone was okay. After looking around it appeared that everyone had their key except for Alessandro, he still had to face his enemy who appeared to be the ring leader of assassins. Ayen had his staff at the ready, the sooner they finished this battle the sooner they could save the princess. Although he wondered if this was the only challenge the assassins had planned for them. He was doubtful, the elf was sure they would have more planned to keep them away from the Inquisitor and the Queen.

He wondered how Vunora and Keenan were doing. They had both expressed concern about standing out during the party. With the Inquisitor, Lady Evelyn, and Lady Serenity he as sure they would manage. Although he wanted to be there to try and help ease the transition for Vunora. The sooner they defeated these assassins the sooner they could get back to the party.

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Serenity had thought that things would be somewhat easy right now since these people were all bark and no bite at the moment but she knew that things could change quickly and that theory was proven correct when the Count Dampierre made an appearance and requested to dance with Vunora. Honestly, the poor woman was on her own at this point. She could not refuse and luckily things went in the Inquisition's favor since Vunora danced wonderfully and was continually asked to dance with men all around the room. She saw that the poor girl was getting tired and decided to have pity on her and calmly approached but was immediately stopped when she heard a woman say something that made her magic almost create a chilled wind. "Well, well. If it isn't the Rivain Stain. How delightfully hilarious. She thought that she could fit in at such an affair, but all she does is bring the class of this place down. How she even got in is a mystery." said one privileged Antivan woman who had no idea what the girl had gone through and didn't even care to know and continued on and talking clearly without any fear of being overheard by the girl she was mocking, "Even the Dalish Elf has more charm and is more respected than her. Why does she even show her pitiful face? She should just go into the mountains and live with the giant spiders. She may just make the world a better place by leaving it. Especially considering what she did to the poor Queen of Rivain." That was the last straw. That last taunt was something she could not allow. She knew she shouldn't react. She knew she should just take it and turn the other cheek. She knew that if she let it effect her that it would reflect badly upon the Inquisition but she just couldn't let that one slide. She turned and glared at the woman. She wore a gold and violet dress, long dark chocolate hair that had been done and tied up with feathers and jewels in it and large fancy jewelry adorning her hair, neck, ears, wrists and fingers. She seemed to be in her late forties and should have been above berating a young woman like this but she was Justas petty as the rest of them. Serenity's ice formed around her hands and trailed into the closed fan, hardening it and making it more frail at the same time. Suddenly and subtly the woman felt ice cold and frost even started to creep onto her cheek before Serenity started walking away. She couldn't stay in that room anymore. She just couldn't take it anymore. She didn't mean to leave Vunora to dance more but with what just happened at least, if Vunora cared to even notice, it would give her at least a bit of a reason to take a break. She didn't care if she was leaving without a man near-by to take care of her or at least watch her but right now she just needed some air and get herself back together. Touching on the past like that was a very sore spot for her and she was not to be messed with like that. Once outside she took quick and deep breaths letting chilled frosty air escape her lips. Her breath was visible and sunk in the warm night air. She felt tears pushing at her eyes as she leaned against the wall as she took in more breaths but they were shaky and trembling. She was restraining herself so much right now. Too much was hitting her mind at the same time and way too many memories that she would rather forget. Her ice magic started to surround her and chill the air and cover the stone in frost. She was trying to contain it but her emotions were starting to get out of her control. She just wanted to break down and be a normal 18 year old girl for once in her life. She didn't want to have to be the proper princess that showed no emotion and held the air of strength and didn't need to rely on anyone. She wanted to be like everyone else and scream, cry, shout and complain. Instead she had to be 18 going on 50. She had to keep herself restrained and still. A picture of a princess. To be seen and not heard and done as she is told without any backtalk. It was times like this that honestly, she wished the worst would happen. She wished she would be made tranquil and just be a walking zombie like the rest of them. At least then she wouldn't feel anymore. "I know already....I know....I shouldn't have been born....I don't need reminded.....I know who and what I am....I don't need anyone to tell me..." she said to herself as a tear slipped from her right amethyst eye only to be frozen immediately and let to shatter on the ground, "I would say I want to go home but....I have no home to return to." she then sighed and tried to calm down but tears just kept coming and freezing then shattering. "Even Skyhold is only temporary. Unwanted.....unnecessary....heh, my greatest accomplishment is slaying a dragon. Even that is nothing in the face of everything and everyone. I'm not even needed here. Vunora is learning quickly, Evelyn is more of a lady than I'll ever be. Numarious seems like he is even enjoying himself. The Inquisitor probably wouldn't even notice that I'm gone. Rivain could always send one of my older siblings in my place. Father's pride and joy to better deal with the situation. Heh, even that idiot Tasuki ditched me because he knew. And now here I am, talking to myself. I've gone completely mad. I....I really should just be made tranquil and get it over with. Stop fighting all this and just give in. It would make things so much easier....so much better...I wouldn't have to feel anymore....no more pain...or sadness...or fear...or anger...or even jealousy. I'd be free." she looked at her hands, now covered in so much of her magical frost that they appeared to be white laced gloves. She gave a small sad smile to herself and displayed her magic to herself by creating a lotus flower out of clear ice and as the light hits it, it refracts the light and creates small rainbow sparkles everywhere. "No more magic. It would be better..."


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He saw the blood on Kyra and quickly bandaged it up but there was not too much he could do given the current situation but he did his best. "You're right. She won't last very long in this place, but you're in no shape to fight anymore. I've got a few bumps and bruises but you have a concussion and are losing blood. Just take it easy for a bit. We'll take it from here for now. had a concussion and instead of letting that hinder her later he pulled out a small flask of elf-root potion and handed it " he offered with a smile. and looked back to Alessandro and silently prayed that the rogue would make it out unharmed. They needed him and they all knew it. Tasuki was strong and so was the Qunari but still, they needed someone who knew this place and how things worked or they would surely die. Even Ayen with his magic wouldn't be able to win against ALL of the Crows. Let alone in their home base, or at least that is whatit seemed to be to Tasuki. Honestly, this place gave him the creeps and he wanted to go back to the party and be made fun of. He would prefer that to tis right now. He could nothelp but wonder how the others were doing. Vunora was probably dancing and Evelyn would most likely be talking with other women about shoes and clothes or some such things. The Inquisitor was a bit harder to guess what he would be doing. He could be trying to gather more information or just talking and socializing. Keenan he could see showing of Bluebell and the big beautiful dog just eating up the attention. Serenity was another puzzle. He could never really picture her at a party and with as cold as she has been to him lately he could definitely see her as a wallflower. He wondered what kind of food was served and that was when his stomach growled a little at the thought of food and it made him blush from embarrassment. "Heh, I guess that fight worked up an appetite?" he more asked than gave an excuse.


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The mage danced his feet away upon the ballroom floor his smile the only weapon needed for the dear girl who acted as his tool. The only source he required to show his purpose and manner though it was more a facade like many would wear to such occasions. He needed only a smile to from afar, sweet words up close to her ear and the listening ear of his own to pick up subtle references and hints, using them to gather his own file of intelligence on the local scene of nobles and crows.... Well nobles really as crows were hardly mentioned beyond its common reputation. Nothing more. Not a single bit of useful information on them, but plenty of juicy details for other uses atleast.

Meanwhile the pair eventually came to end their dance and Numerious used the old drink excuse to get away from dancing anymore this eve. Gently denying the other girls a chance to dance with him, though it seemed Vunora wasn't so lucky..... He could see her dancing with the Compt and nearly every male who came towards her, it was almost like Max's words were coming more true then he could have ever imagined, no? The pretty elven mage garnered quite the eye as she danced.

It didn't take long for him to spot Evelyn and Keenan, Bell too. He thought about getting a drink and joining them but instead realized it would be best to not interfere in the discussion. They could be conversing over a private matter or wish to talk and mingle with one another alone. A understandable wish if that were the case, so Numerious continued to roam the ballroom nearing the edges as he spotted Max and Josephine, he nodded and moved along as he got himself a drink and walked about the room.

He could overhear comments and hushed whispers.... They thought him a Venatori? Numerious chuckled in reply scoffing at the notion. But he would not even bat a eye at the accusations and generalizations of such foolish theories, they were generalists looking to slander and insult a individual but settled for a stereotypical comment meant to hurt and win the encounter... But really it was so foolish and poor that it brought a laugh to his lips and escaping his amused expression.

Truly it was a tiring method to try and counter every comment verbally, years of political experience taught Numerious a important lesson. First was never fall to the generalists attempts to mock and slander you for insulting purpose, if they settle for stereotypes and general, wide reaching statements like Tevinters are all venatori blood mages who abuse slaves and trade them then it was obvious they had nothing so to react would only make things worse and you look a fool for falling for it. Second was you didn't always need to verbally respond with words to counter a foe in the grand game.... You merely needed to laugh or form some other reaction to their words, even silence could work wonders for you.

But as Numerious continued in walking with every so often glancing at his companions around the ballroom. He noticed a sad or seemingly so Serenity.... Eyes noticing her hands, ice gloves and manner not so cold but hurting, the queen of ice and stoic like nature was not feeling too wonderful this evening Least not now.

"My dear your not alone...." He spoke with a pair of soft and gentle eyes meeting her hair as he approached slowly and casual with a drink in his hands. He could see the side of her face and the long blonde hair she was always seeming to care for since coming to Skyhold and when they were out in camps during travel. "Least you not need be. Care to talk?" Numerious offered a warm smile as his mind went over possible cause for her sudden change. She wasn't usually so alone when in the presence of many or was she? They all seemed fine during the start but not everything was fine... Now was it? No. the antivan crowd and their comments were taking effect weren't they?

Truly he couldn't say for certain as though Tevinter and knowledgeable of blood magic, he was no willing practitioner of the forbidden school nor a mind reader capable of reading another without forced entry to ones mind. "I hope they haven't gotten to you. I've found they are generalists and quite poor and uncreative to the individual. They'd make for poor players of the game in my opinion. But still words can hurt, no?" He began aiming to talk for a bit until she felt more at ease in his company. It wasn't like they had spoken much before now and Serenity seemed more closed off and private then others in the inquisition. "Even a queen of ice and defenses can bleed.... Not always by physical wound either. I understand Rivains circle was rather free and tolerant of mages, letting them see their families and have lives beyond the towers, before the chantry annulled it upon discovery. I imagine some here might use that to harm if they disagree with Rivaini ways." Numerious spoke not aiming to venture beyond that she would willingly go, but he did want to learn more about his companion. And Serenity did actually remind him of his kid sister as they would be the same or similar of age had the girl lived beyond the age of seven. Hair color was different, but still a young woman of magical talents who was the same age or would be had been enough to remind him of her.


Numerious was overall aiming to uncover what harmed the girl without outright asking and coming off as intrusive rather then his more sensitive and caring intentions.

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"Am I all right?" Keenan repeated, a little surprised. "No, not particularly."
He continued to stare after the offensive noble for a while longer before turning back to Evelyn. "If that means he got off easy then I'm sorry I did intervene...but I suppose we wouldn't want to upset the inquisitor." There was a slight bitterness in his voice, as if part of the blame for events of the evening could be put upon Max.
He felt Evelyn's gentle hand on his shoulder and realized he was being unreasonable. "You're welcome," he said, trying his usual half smile. It did not reach his eyes.
He noticed Serenity leave without warning, her face pained. What had they done to her? His anger flared again as he thought this, and he was about to go and comfort her when he saw Numerious pad gracefully in her wake. Good. He allowed himself to relax a little. Then an idea struck him, he knelt down to Blue, "Go find Serenity," he said softly and dropped the leash. Blue went, nose to the ground for just a moment before she trotted after the mage. Keenan smiled to himself, it had been useful to teach Blue his teammates' names after all, and knowing his dog, she wouldn't let things get too far if there was a next time.
"There is altogether too much care in words here, and at the same time no care at all, if that makes any sense." Keenan tried to explain, standing up once more. He was tired of being insulted in complex and indirect ways, with little gestures and critical glances. He was also tired of watching his friends receive the same treatment.
"And some subjects that cause pain are grabbed like knife handles and twisted without a thought to the true consequences."
He noticed Evelyn's surprised expression and followed her gaze out onto the dance floor. Vunora was beautiful, and her steps confident, but he began to worry when the Orlesian courtier mentioned the man's name with slight foreboding.
"Is that bad?" Keenan asked, with probably a little more urgency than was required. He let himself be led closer. Vunora certainly did not look like she was having fun. He looked to Max, he had no intention of intervening. Keenan didn't like it, but he knew there was some element of the stupid game going on here. The fact that Vunora was becoming a pawn in it stoked his simmering anger.
"If I try and get her out of there it could make things a hundred times worse," It wasn't spoken as a question, but Keenan looked to Evelyn for the affirmation.
"We need some sort of clue as to the princess' kidnappers, and fast, or I'll end up punching someone before the night is out."

Blue found the mages easily enough and gave a soft woof to announce her presence before going up to Serenity and licking the ice from her hand happily. Blue couldn't see the colours, and Ice didn't smell like much at all, but it was fun to lick, and the nice human Serenity was sad, and in very much need of licking indeed.

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She didn't want to seem weak but this time the barb that the Antivan woman plunged into the young woman's mind and heart was sharp and specifically directed. The woman knew more than most and used it just to see the girl's reaction and by now the woman wished she hadn't. Now the woman would have a permanent scar on her cheek. Frostbite. It was a secret skill she had picked up but sometimes it is used accidently when her emotions flare up like that and it now permanently scarred the Antivan woman in warning. Now that she was alone she could try and fix herself and her walls.

This idea was quickly changed when Numerious caught her attention and tried to both comfort and ask what was wrong in more eloquent words. She turned her amethyst eyes to him and for the first time in years, showed just how sad and pained she was. Tears brimming those bright and cold eyes. Her already pale face completely without color. Her soft lips slightly agape to let in a more steady stream of air. She turned her gaze back to the floor for a bit before speaking in a soft and almost defeated voice, "I'm....always alone..." she replied, even though he was right. Now she didn't have to be alone. But could she really hold on to the Inquisition as a family? "It wasn't the circle they brought up. It was aimed specifically at me. They know a lot more about me than I realized had spread. I....I know I shouldn't let their words get to me but.....I just couldn't this time. I'm sorry but this one was taken too far and far too personally. It....wasn't even about the circle or anything like that....It...was about my mother....and me...." she wanted to put up her ice walls again but for the first time since she was a child, she just couldn't.

Tears fell and she hid them behind her long golden hair so that no one, not even Numerious would see them before she wiped them away. "For Andreaste's sake, can't they leave the dead in peace?" she asked herself quietly before she felt something warm and wet lapping at her hands. She hadn't heard the large dog bark to get her attention so it came as a bit of a surprise. Her attention had been stolen by the large Mabari dog as she had been licking the frost that had accumulated on the young mage's hands. She gave a pathetically weak smile to Blue and let her do as she pleased. "H-hello Bluebell..." was all she could really say to the kind animal but her smile faded. Not even Blue, the cutest mabari in the world could lift her spirits this time. The frost kept covering her hands as fast as Bluebell could lick it away. "I...I know I shouldn't let it get to me but....I...I just can't help it....honestly....things like this....make me start thinking....maybe.... maybe I should....just be made tranquil...." she guessed that Numerious would snap at her a little for thinking of that as an option. With her youth and life and skills it would be a waist at the very least.

"I...I guess I need to give you a bit more information as to why I let it get to me this time." she said with a sigh and more frost chilling the air, "Had it been anything else I could have taken it without any problems but...that...that is off limits...even to my father, to even mention it in whispers is reason enough for imprisonment. To insult by using her...she is lucky I let her live and only walked away with a frostbite scar." she was very much upset and at the moment she was like any other teenage girl, like she should have been but all that was stolen from her long ago. "I'm not MADE of ice...I'm just as much alive as everyone else and feel just as much. It was an accident....an accident....I....I shouldn't bother you with this. I'm sorry. You probably have more to worry about than a bratty child. Forgive me." she didn't know why the older mage cared so much to even fallow her and try to comfort her. She just didn't think she was worth much effort.

She noticed that Bluebell seemed to enjoy licking the frost from her hands but it wasn't doing any good so instead she created a snowball in her hands and let Bluebell lick or even bite it instead. She knew the beautiful beast was trying to comfort but this was an old and festering wound that will not heal any time soon. She didn't know if Bluebell liked to eat snow but it was worth a shot, right? "My mother was the queen of Rivain...she had many children before me. All of them talented and beautiful in their own ways. I was supposed to be just like them but....I turned out to be something else entirely. My mother had no idea she was giving birth to a mage and was excited, from what I was told. So was my father...that was...until I was born anyway. The day I was born I showed my magic. I....I....I k... I k...." she just couldn't bring herself to say the words that everyone in Rivain knew but never spoke of. She mentally scolded herself and told herself that she should just shut up as no one wants to hear her sob stories. "I'm sorry. You probably don't want to hear. Just...forget I said anything. I'll be fine in a while. I....I'm sorry to have made you worry." She forced herself to stop crying and tried her best to shut off her emotions and be the ice queen she had been since the start but right now the pain in her broken heart was too much to hide. She wanted to leave the party completely but she knew they had a mission to accomplish and could only wait for the others and hope for he best outcome.



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Really the choice was easy for him to make while using care of step and phrase to move about the approach and conversation to uncover the young woman's pain. But to see her amethyst eyes turn toward him full of tears filling her lids beneath brow and holding in place such eyes and containing her tears. Numerious couldn't help but move forward slightly and look to her with a quiet way about him, only listening and giving time to speak while enough room to give space but not appear so far that he was not within reach. Though her words soft and tone almost retreating in defeat his ears picked up Serenitys voice and clear enough knew the words she spoke.

At first he would respond but held still of tongue instead allowing for a further course of her thought and what she had to say. Before long the girl was starting to open up to him, she was revealing in start what had caused her such pain. It was discovered that whoever this person was they had indeed crossed a line, knew something about Serenity that was more detailed and personalized then she was aware be known to them, she was specifically targeted it seemed. A rather capable sleuth to uncover such information about the young mage or enough gold to buy it, if not both or even more? Such questions ran through his mind in thought as he paid attention to Serenity preparing to respond.

Meanwhile it occurred to him that Antiva and Rivain were close to one another. Close enough to travel and meet others between nations, hear of news and gather Intel through various means. A connection wouldn't be difficult to make with such proximity to one another.

"Alone? A rather lonely reality for any of us. But it's a choice in the end, effort and openness to change that is for the beholder to make. Plenty I'm sure would accept you as one of them and apart of their.... umm, inner circle? Pardon the phrase. Perhaps new family?"

He began to offer in alternative view on life and possible path for one to take. Though in truth he was not the best one to offer this ideal and alternative view on matters concerning life and being alone. After all he was hardly a representative of the option in life to make effort to shed loneliness.

"It sounds like a leak, someone moving their lips more then one should. Or this person merely got lucky and knew where to look, stumbling upon it like a step through the dark. It's not important though, my mind just goes off in such directions.... Old habits. I'd understand quite well however... Everyone has a line and it's hold over them strong. It weakens the core of they are and rattles them to no end, Least not a nearing end that's easy."

He added with a sincerity to his voice and sympathy as his eyes looked toward the woman.

"The fact it concerned your mother and you... Makes it quite personal. For what it's worth I'm sorry you had to suffer and now endure this pain."

Numerious commented further before returning to quiet. Using his ears to listen and leaving his lips silent and motionless until time was right to shift once more. It was difficult to make out what she was saying in quiet and harder still to notice much at all a sense her hair guarded her face and shielded it from his view. If tears were active he couldn't say nor see with his own eyes, just a guess was all he had to go by.

It was then he heard and noticed Bluebell approach... Licking the mages hands of ice and making attempt to cheer her up. They greeted one another and Numerious could hear her say hello to Bell while going on to speak to Numerious. He listened carefully and made his attention toward her a priority at the moment as this was more important then his drink or dancing with another girl to maneuver through the game without being around groups that could lessen his chances of getting one to slip and open up. Because they would be more guarded at such moments.

No this took importance and he did stay to listen, though he could his words weren't helping. Least not yet and as far as he could tell. It was Serenitys mention that she should be made tranquil when his expression changed to obvious disagreement and intial dislike of the thought, but despite his hatred for tranquility and it's right that Templars so often abused, the lack of humanity it offered and evil purpose of taking not just ones connection to magic but their feelings as well. It disgusted him. But he held off on the feelings charge within him and he simply nodded at first to show his listening ear and thoughtful presence of mind to gather a response in full to her.

"Politics are a cruel reality that others enjoy too much. I hate it really... But one must have boundaries even still or else your merely in it for the enjoyment of cruelty as sick as that would be. I understand this woman crossed your personal line in the sand, but tranquility no matter the cause of your pain or history of regret shan't justify it. Only the disturbed of mind and uncontrollable of great threat, of evil thought and action shall be punished so harshly. Not you. Forgive my bias on the matter but I detest tranquility for the evil it represents... Feelings and emotion shouldn't be taken away, it's too far.... it's..."

Numerious paused as his voice was losing the gentle tone and care he had been using, control was turning into heated thoughts on the matter of tranquility.

"I apologize for the outburst.... Tranquil are useful but the right itself is evil and too often abused by those who wield it. But yes, you are correct, I wish not to intrude but I'd like to know more and listen. Perhaps I'd be better company and of more help this way."

Numerious added in apologetic form and polite agreement and wish to know more.

"No need to apologize Serenity. I'm not bothered and if even I was it would be self inflicted by approach and inquiry to your pain. It's obvious to me that your not made of ice else you would have done more then just harm in warning. You'd of killed her like a cold blooded individual and not show restraint to that of whom crossed your line. But this accident... her, your mother...."

Numerious began to ask but needn't bothered as within time she spoke some more and he was starting to see more clearly. He was starting to get down to the root of this matter and solve the mystery to him.

He listened to her speak and let his mind return to the mystery before him. His eyes were going from a clear blue of waters and light to sudden turn to slow shock at her words and more so his deduction of her would be words that were cutting off before so much as a letter was started in her voice and began to sound.

"You.... You accidentally killed your own mother? I was amazed by the extraordinary feat of magic the day you were born, its remarkable but quite rare. Am I mistaken of this? The first minute, first hour, first day of your first breath of life and your magic... I'm truly sorry Serenity. But it's hardly your fault, it was a accident that couldn't have been helped. I imagine your parents happiness to your arrival and love was great, the tragedy that followed while painful shouldn't be used against you or anyone. It's something I'd say you've suffered enough for already. Wouldn't your mother wish you no pain and still be with you in your heart though?"

He spoke with true of words and best of intent by his response. Though a mothers love and family in general wasn't his best topic to speak on, but he felt her pain as he recognized enough and knew enough to see it, feel it and perhaps understand it.

" Once more I must say that your apology is unnecessary Serenity. I inquired, I wished to know and want to help in some way. Make you feel better or least ease your pain... I'm not one to forget either. You opened up to me, that's not a easy task and in our line of work it's potentially deadly with a ending result likely that of regret. I've lived this life long enough to know that security is more valuable then gold and any offer you can receive. You wouldn't believe the precautions and measures I take to ensure security, I'm nearly paranoid about it all."

Numerious replied in honest word and leaning against the nearby wall with his shoulder. "I was once a older brother you know..... A little sister who would have been around your age had she lived to see this day, yes... in matter of fact she was the light that saw me through my earlier years. Her curiosity and love, the simple things that were a constant and would annoy any brother or sister that was object to such attention of persistent nature. I used to tell her stories you know? Every night she'd ask for another.... she was young but wanted adventure, wished to accompany me places just for the chance at it..... You probably wonder why I the Tevinter companion and your senior in age, though please let's not do the math, I'm old enough as it is no need for public reminder..." He pleaded with a small chuckle though he wasn't a vain man exactly. Age was sometimes a sensitive issue when he was the elder by such a margin and he realized how many years had passed him by.

"The fact is.... You sorta remind me that... of that girl who was my kid sister. Your age and fact your a mage alone remind me of her, but something else too I believe. Whatever it may be. I don't wish to see you hurt Serenity though our alliance has been brief in comparison to this feeling, but I wouldn't wish such pain on one who doesn't deserve it. I'm here when and should you need it or wish it, I thought you need to know and hear it from my lips to your ears. I also know others would be there too especially that Tasuki as taboo as his name might be right now."

Numerious spoke as openly and honestly as the man could and had been in sometime. He never spoke of his sister to anyone and for reasons that were his own, but felt now was the time to share and open up to Serenity just as she did for him. Hoping to show that despite their tasks and position in life they could be open and truthful about things like any other and show they too pain and bleed like any other.

With that said he pushed off the wall and walked closer to her and offered his hand in gesture to accompany her back to the party. While sharing a smile and nod toward Blue as he waited for Serenitys response to his gesture.

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Alessandro, Zevran Arainai
Time: Day
Place: Antiva
Characters: Everyone
Tag: Oenanthe Oenanthe , SerenityAngel SerenityAngel , SilverFlight SilverFlight , The Silent Z The Silent Z , nettie. nettie. , stepherz345 stepherz345 , Vys Vys

Ready for the final confront with Romario, Sandro drawn his blade toward his enemy. He was cautioned and calculating, he waited for Romario to come at him instead.

"- Still remain passive... after all those years and you haven't learnt."

The Crow Talon rushed to Sandro's side with a dagger in each hands, there were the infaous Gifts of the Talon, a pair of daggers that were given to a Talon only. The pair of daggers came to Sandro with incredible pace and intensiveness. The master assassin wielded them skillfully and ruthlessly toward his opponent, every attacks were to directly to either Sandro's throat, eyes or chest, where it would be lethal if he failed to evade them. But despite so, the caution of the Spymaster wasn't for nothing, he was able to parry the deadly blade of his enemy and evade it all when Romario went to stab him. Alessandro was just defending himself, waiting for a chance to counter... Waiting for his chance...

*POW*

There it was, the chance Sandro was patiently defending himself for, Sandro blocked the dagger of Romario to the sight before he could swung his blade with the same intention to kill. Romario was able to dodge it but it was then he received a full blow to his chin as Sandro swung the handle of his blade at his opponent's mouth. The attack was minor from the Antivan spymaster but it's enough to push the Crow Talon backward.

"- Impressive... I may have to fight you with everything I have now."

As Romario said, both him and Sandro put out a poison in their hand, both already understood that this fight between them was going to be more than just a sword fight, it's a fight between two of the best rogue in Antiva and they would have to pull their best trick to win.

It was started when both of them dropped a smoke bomb to the ground on each end, brought to the room a thick smoke screen. In a blink of an eye both rushed toward their opponent, their weapons met behind the mist at top speed and with ferocity, both were wanting to end each other life for their own purpose. But as time spent, the spymaster of the Inquisitor gained the upper hand, Sandro was able to pushed Romario to the edge of his life for many time, but yet to win his life so easily. It was until so, the high-rank assassin decided to fall back as he rushed back behind the smoke screen.

"- You are fighting a losing battle, Sandro. Like you've always been. You think that you can defeat the Crow..."

From be smoke, Romario started to speak, tried to taunt Sandro.

"- You think Antiva can exist without the Crow ? We own Antiva, though nobody admit it... Well this current Queen does. And only when a conquer realize such thing, that Antiva can move forward. Imagine, Antiva and the Crow, together as one, we will soon surpass Ferelden, Orlais... But before we can do that, I will have to remove the last few men that are able to stop me..."

As the Talon immediately finished his words, he appeared from the fog and aimed his daggers to Sandro, to which the spymaster was able to hold off with his sword. But at that moment, as his blade met the dagger of his enemy, he felt an uneasy odor... A sight of a green mist came from the mask of Romario as Sandro knew that he was tricked...

He felt like his eyes were burning, he was in incredibly pain, his heart was racing, his body was no longer hold it together... He felt unpleasant, unstable, afraid, his sword-holding hand was shaking... but despite that he still wielded it toward his enemy, with difficulty. He knew that he wasn't afraid of his enemy, but it's the poison that made him unstable and he had to stay focus. But as he tried to stay up his foot, he cough blood...

"- Oh you felt that. It was our new poison... You probably would lose your sight for a while... but that's probably enough. I'm not going to kill you yet, I'll enjoy this a little."

Then when Sandro had finally showed his lack of awareness due to the poison affect, Romario started to attack. He put away his pair of dagger as he was going to use his hand. The Crow Talon threw a punch and knocked Sandro over. With his enemy being defenseless again him, Romario kept torturing Sandro the way he wanted. Punches was thrown to Sandro and he couldn't dodge them as he had lost his sight. Romario continued to stomped on the face and groin of his opponent, to break him slowly. Soon there were already injuries in his faces, there was blood from his mouth and nose, bones and ribs were also broken.

"- It will be a few moment before I end your pathetic life, Sandro. But before I do so... Answer me a question first... What was your relationship with the former Queen ? Were you her lover ?"

Romario asked with a loud laughter... It was something he was in doubt for many years, the reason that Sandro betrayed the Crow to protect the Royalties of Antiva. But such thing was not matter much right now, Sandro was on the verge of his life, severely injured while the Talon Romario was on his feet and ready to end the fragile life of the Antivan spymaster any time he wanted. He had nothing to fear, he would enjoy this moment of victory, for himself and for the House of Crow.

"- I..." - Words from Sandro as the injured man trying to speak to his enemy.

Romario was satisfied with the thought that Alessandro, the Antivan Royal protector and once the Crow biggest enemy, was now already broken, and would tell him his deep dark secret of his life. He grabbed Sandro by the neck and raised him with one arm, waiting for his answer.

"- I am the protector of her and her children... and forever will be..."


Alessandro mumbled these words weakly with his exhausted breaths, before he release a bottle off his fingers... It was a Shock Bomb.

It was an unexpected move and it successfully caught The Talon by surprise. The bomb shocked him with electricity and stunned him for a moment, forced him to release Sandro. With a small window opened by himself, Sandro, with every bit of consciousness he managed to have, swung his foot high and side way, caught his enemy face and brought both of them off their feet.

From behind, Zevran saw a chance as he once again threw a smoke bomb to the ground to blind the Talon and with great pace he went to carry Sandro to a safe distance. The same time he made a gesture to gather everyone around, seem like they were all victorious over their opponents.

"- Hey friend, can you try to improve Sandro situation with your healing magic or anything ?" - Zevran said to Ayen before he turned to the rest of the group - "Me and the rest will try to hold up again Romario... Sandro was our best bet, honestly I don't know how much chance we got right now..."

"- I can still fight. It's not too bad but I still I need time to recover. Ayen, do what you can... Mean while everyone else try to wear him out if you cant kill him." - Sandro said to everyone as he needed time to recover from his injury.

Next post is about healing Sandro (and some conversation if you like)

Next post is about fighting with the Crow Talon Romario in a 4 vs 1 : Zevran, Sul, Kyra and Tatsuki VS Romario. You guys will hold him up, probably push him around a little bit with your teamwork but you guys CAN NOT kill him. The killing blow will be delivered in my later post.

During the scene you guy can have the control over Zevran and Romario (just don't OOC them too much) and have some conversations if you like)


 
Ayen didn't realize he had held his breath when Alessandro and Talon finally fought. His heart sank as the assassin poisoned Alessandro. Talon merely stood above him, enjoying the view of the poison coursing through the poor man's body. Thankfully he was just as clever, using a shock bomb to stun him. Then Zevran threw a smoke bomb, buying them more time.

The mage simple nodded at Zevran's request. Ayen knelt down next Alessandro holding the staff above him. "I will be able to heal you, not as well as Vunora, but enough to get you standing again and hopefully make the pain more bearable." he explained matter of factly. The staff shined brightly as it emitted the healing magic to the spymaster. The mage focused his attention the healing magic, trusting his comrades to protect him.

He could feel his magic fighting against the poison. Ayen was able overcome the resistance of the poison and eliminated most of it. "The magic should slow down any remaining poison. Hopefully our foe there has an antidote to complete cure it. You're free to get up and move now." Ayen instructed and brought his staff back to his side. He was still weary of his surrounding but trusted his comrades to protect him while Alessandro healed.

"Oh and one more reminder as you know the faster you move, the faster the poison will move. I know it is redundant but I say it because I don't want to see you hurt anymore than necessary. Whatever your next move is be careful." Ayen added. This was probably the first time he had talked to Alessandro he realized. He stood up and then extended his hand to Alessandro to help him back on his feet.

Sopranos Sopranos
 
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"Lonely, yes. But safe. It keeps you from getting hurt by putting your trust in someone and allowing yourself to have a weakness. A point of entry. Giving away faith and hope." she said but she relented a bit and the mention of family flinched, "F-family? This concept....is as foreign to me as the fade is to a dwarf. Even in the circle it was not really felt. It was guilt by association. We weren't friends or family. I was not even allowed outside the tower, even though I had passed my harrowing at age five. No one wanted near me but Tasuki....he was the only one to even talk to me. Even he didn't seem me as family or a real friend. But...I...I will try as you say."

"It...was never a secret....I'm....not surprised that she knew, but...to speak of it in any form.....if she were in Rivain, the king would have her tortured to learn her lesson then imprisoned for the rest of her life. Your way of thinking is not as abnormal as you think. Everyone in Rivain has similar fixations. R-rattled...I guess that is what you could call me at the moment." she gently pulls her hands away from Bluebell but not because she was angry or sad but it was to protect the dog from uncontrolled magic. She didn't want to hurt anyone especially not because of her emotions. "Thank you, but , I've become used to it. I've come to become accustomed to the feeling, but thank you."

The more her memories plagued her the more depressed and angry she became. She couldn't hold it in anymore. She sobbed quietly. Tears finally spilled from her eyes and her gentile and frozen hands came up to her face but the moment her hands came close to her face she realized she could not wipe away her tears as the snow and ice would only have the adverse of her intentions to wipe away. She would basically be adding ice and water to her face. If she tried she would only get her face more wet rather than dry. She couldn't control her ice this time. She couldn't calm down. She had no choice. She had to have help. She took a deep breath before she lowered her head a little bit and let out soft sobs. She just let the tears fall and stain her cheeks. She knew Tranquility was not really a solution but still it would be an option. One she had considered many times but never had the courage to go through with it and ask for it.

"I....I know feelings and the connection to the fade are precious gifts but....the feelings I've felt have brought me nothing but pain....I'm tired....I'm only 18 years old and I'm tired. I've seen way too much and felt more than most would at my age and....I just want a break...just...for a while." she admitted and without thinking, she childishly used her sleeve to wipe her eyes a bit and dampened the delicate fabric that covered her strong but slender arm, "I didn't mean to upset you with my thoughts. It's just that I'm not as strong as I act to be. I am human and I give in to depression and desperation. It's just that sometimes that it seems like the only way out. I'm weak, I know. To give up on life and being human. It takes more strength than I have to never cross that line myself. I....I just don't know if I'm strong enough to live like this for much longer." At least she admitted to her own weakness and lack of strength. Not many people would recognize or admit to such things but she knew better. So young yet so beaten and worn down beyond her years.

Hearing that he did not believe her to be as cold as ice because she did not kill the woman that insulted her and used her mother to slander her was like a dig in itself as she knew the truth, "It was not out of kindness or a gentile heart that forced me to spare her life. Had I my choice I would have gladly frozen her blood solid and let her shatter into millions of pieces. The only reason I didn't was because I do not wish to cause more problems for my father and older siblings. If I had killed her, like I wanted so badly to, the woman's family would have complained and demanded compensation or something for the hag's death. I have no pride to speak of but they do. I would not inconvenience them further if I can help it. That is what truly saved her life. Not my lack of a cold heart. I just mean that I am not incapable of being hurt. I'm still human to that extent. No matter what others may think. Thank you, for believing that though."

Then came the older man's views on her entrance to the world, covered with ice, snow and stained with blood. "Apparently it's almost as rare as being a Somniari for the Dalish. As far as I know.....there hasn't been anyone to be born like me....in many generations....centuries....I wish....I hadn't broken that streak....It would have saved so many lives....so much goodness..." she started to remember the stories that she had heard about her mother. How kind, clever, beautiful and brave she was from the people around her and from the berating she would get in comparison. "I....I wouldn't know....I never got he chance to meet her....hear her....be held by her....if she had died just giving birth to me naturally, thins would have been better, but.....instead....before I was even truly ready to come out....from what I was told....a spear of ice shot from inside my mother's stomach out of nowhere. She fell to the floor and it started snowing inside the castle....when the pillar of ice faded away....I lay in the whole in my mother's stomach, untouched and unmoving, not even really breathing or crying. My skin was as white as the snow that fell and my lips blue as if I had already passed. This all happened in front of my father. When he approached he saw me and carefully scooped up what he thought was a stillborn infant. My body cold to the touch, my mother's blood frozen around me. The hurt he must have felt....that was caused by me....I can't even imagine. As he held me for he first and last time, he slowly felt me warming up and felt my heart beating. He knew then that I was alive and it was my doing. His love was dead by the creature in his hands. He left me on the floor and called for the circle to take away the 'demon' from his home so that his beloved wife could have a proper burial." during this story Serenity's eyes shed tear after painful tear that could no longer be restrained or hidden. Not even by her hair. Her soft sobs could barely be heard. Almost desperate now, like the child she never got to be, she looked to Numerious, revealing her tear-streaked face, "Why did I have to be cursed with magic? If I wasn't a mage my mother would be alive. If I wasn't brought into being my mother and father would be happy right now. It's all my fault....all....my fault...so....I...I have no clue....if she would have loved me....or....hated me....held a grudge against me....for her life....for being born this way....for being cursed with this kind of magic....I must have....done something terrible in a past life. The maker must surely be punishing me for something I have done. Maybe....in a past life....I was a supporter of the mages that went against him. Or one of the soldiers that killed Andraste. Either way....I have no way of knowing. I won't hold my breath and hope for the best."

She then listened to him talk about his little sister and how she reminded him of her simply with her age and being a mage. The way a big brother would treat a younger sister was something she wasn't familiar with but wished she had. She, in point of fact, had an older brother about his age as well but their relationship was no where near normal. He absolutely hated her and took every opportunity to remind her of that. "What happened to her? If it is alright to ask. You don't have to answer at all, if it painful. I just...wish that I had a relationship with my siblings like you had with her." her ice slowly, very slowly faded away. Numerious just seemed to have a strange but calming and comforting effect on her. A big brother she wished she had. One that could see her as a person, not as a monster. She felt sorry for him that he had lost such a treasured part of his life. He had opened up to her about his own life and his own pain. She didn't know what to do or say in response. She had never had anyone open up to her like this nor had she opened up to anyone like that who didn't hate her.

She did her best to dry her tears with her now damp sleeves like the child she never got to be. So when he offered his hand to return to the party she didn't feel so bad and took it with a very small and weak smile. Her hand carefully reached out and her frost receded and faded away so that she could touch him without chilling him instantly. Her magic was a bit more attached to her emotions and that was one of the many reasons she tried her best to hide them and not to feel too much but sometimes, like now, it was just too much, but now she felt a little better since she was able to let it out and not be judged for doing so.


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"Kyra can't fight in her condition. She won't last very long with her concussion. She's struggling just stay standing. It's just you, me and Sull are in this battle right now, Zevran. At least, that is if Sull is alright enough to fight." he said then looked to the Qunari and waited for an answer either way. He hoped that the assasin would bit. We'll take it from here for now. That is if Sul, you feel like you can continue the fight." he looked to the Qunari, worried for his health as his companions seemed to get beat up one by one. First Sull, then Kyra now Alessandro. Things were not going the way they should. He looked back to their enemy assassin with fire in his golden eyes. "I'm more than fit to fight this coward. A few bruises from the brute, but no major damage. He didn't even dent my armor." with a confident smirk playing on his lips he spun his sword in his hand and tightened his grip on his shield with the other. He took a few steps forward toward Romario and rolled his shoulders a bit as he readied and dropped into a fighting stance. He was confident in his abilities but he knew he was outmatched for this master assassin but he had to at least try and buy time. "I think it's time to show why they call me the Fire King." he said and started to mumble some things under his breath and struck his sword on the stone floor, creating a spark and his blade went up in flames. He was going to go all out as best as he could in this situation to buy some time for his companions to recover a bit. Tasuki knew his limits but loved to push them and make himself stronger in the long run but this could very much end him if he is not careful. It wasn't really his intention to win, just slow him down to give the others a chance. Romario laughed as the brave ex-Templar took a stand against him on his own, like he really stood a chance, though the flaming sword was a bit of a sight to watch. "Ah, I've heard of you vaguely. Fire King. The leader of the rebels. Your name is quite apt." he said with a laugh before their battle began.

Tasuki was the first to attack. Sprinting at full speed toward the assassin with his sword set ablaze and drawn. He would have to be careful of hat poison gas that his mask produces. He would have to keep his eyes on that but also on the enemy's weapons in his hands. Those things seemed quite dangerous and indeed they were. As soon as Tasuki's sword swung up to try and make Romario retreat, the expert assassin stepped to the side and had his blade ready to strike but thankfully his shield protected him from the blow and saved him from getting hurt this time. Romario came at him with a quick sweep of the legs but surprisingly, he warrior's stance was so firmly planted that, even though he was off guard, Tasuki didn't even waver as the man's leg came in contact with a very hard thump, surely they would both have bruised legs if they both survived. Instead, Tasuki turned the tide and brought his sword down for a second swing and leaving Romario ro barely be able to block it. Tasuki's strength was incredible for a human. "Fire is passion and life. The flames of Andraste herself burn inside me so much it stains my skin, hair and eyes! You will not be able to put them out with weak attacks like that!" he said and started hammering the assassin relentlessly but being lighter and quicker, he was able to outlast the ex-Templar in stamina.

Tasuki tired after a good time of fighting with all he had. He had the assassin on the ropes for a good while and kept pushing him back but eventually Tasuki began to falter. He became slower and he became winded. This gave Romario the opportunity he needed to try and use the poison against him but Tasuki would not let him within range to use it so he had to think of something else. Instead he flung the blade towards the warrior and being drained of energy, Tasuki was unable to block properly and the blade slipped past his shield and buried itself deeply into his side. Tasuki backed off quickly and swiftly pulled out the sword and clutched his side. He was losing blood fast and he knew this was not the best of situations. His time was up. He looked at his foe as he came closer, picking up the discarded dagger from the floor, intending to finish the job. Tasuki cursed under his breath as he had no strength to move anymore. He had given his all but it wasn't enough. He sincerely hoped that either Sul or Zevran would save his ass, hell, even Ayen would be helpful at this point.


SilverFlight SilverFlight Oenanthe Oenanthe The Silent Z The Silent Z Vys Vys nettie. nettie. stepherz345 stepherz345 NaturalQueen NaturalQueen Sopranos Sopranos
 

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