(no subject)

[virborassan]

Three months. So much can happen in three months.

Corypheus was dead and gone and this time, they were sure. Elareth had opened a rift atop him and had made sure he wasn't coming back even if it had cost her life. They'd all survived the battle, bruised and battered, but time would heal that. Solas had disappeared just after the battle and while she'd pondered going after him, there was no need. If he ran, he ran for a reason and she knew he wouldn't found unless he wanted to. As far as she was concerned, she had questions for him but for now, she was content to give him the space he seemed to need.

The Inquisition took time to heal both its members and whomever in Thedas welcomed their help. For a while, they were all spread thin, soldiers off helping to rebuild town and farm alike while the leaders of the Inquisition took steps to stem any possible threats that might seek to take advantage of the end of Corypheus' reign of terror.

There was joy and sadness at Skyhold. Trusted friends left, some for home and some for higher purpose while others pledged their intent to remain. Varric left with Elareth's blessing and a few tears, which he'd chided her for. Leliana's rise to the new Divine hadn't been a shock to anyone in the know, but she was still sad to see her friend leave. For now, she knew Cassandra would be staying on, as was Dorian and Bull, but that was no real surprise to her. After all, they'd been growing close for some time now and she was not so secretly pleased to see them happy.

Well, bickering at times, but happy.

Once she'd been allowed some time at Skyhold, Elareth had fallen into a routine and she was glad for it. As much as she liked traveling, having some time to enjoy the comforts of home was downright night. Having Jove at Skyhold a good deal of the time only made it better. Things were nowhere near as strained as they had been at first, thankfully, but they'd made certain to take things slower this time. While Elareth was still herself, she'd learned to stop and think a bit more before acting, but there were times she needed to be reminded.

A few days after her most recent return from visiting Redcliffe, Josephine informed her of a grand idea she'd had to cement relations with some of the higher ranked families of Oralis. Elareth was less than impressed when she found out she'd planned a grand ball, right there in Skyhold. She knew Josephine was right, but the idea of having to play dress up and dance and be a very censored version of herself wasn't exactly an ideal evening for Elareth.

At least she'd be able to just wear what she'd worn to the Winter Palace. A shame Josephine had something else in mind.

The ball was in full swing when the Inquisitor made her entrance. Anyone that knew her well enough would know she'd hate being so dressed up, but the look was impressive to say the least. Hair half in intricate braids, the rest loose and curling along her shoulders. Her dark eyes were lined in green and gold to match her dress and to hear the ladies in attendance, the bare shoulder and the cut was a rather daring choice. She'd wanted to forgo shoes but that idea had quickly become an argument only to be solved by allowing not the heeled formal shoes Josephine wanted but soft flats threaded through with gold and green.

She held audience like a queen atop her throne, smiling at all who spoke to her, but every now and again, her gaze wandered the crowd as if looking for someone in particular.

Comments

I am wasting my life on Xbox.

[weatherthestorm]

After Corypheus was slain Jove found himself in charge of the Templars that remained uncorrupted by red lyrium. They found their way to Skyhold to find some sort of purpose and well, he was leading that purpose.

In reality they all still fell under Cullen's command but many of them trusted a still practicing Templar over a former one involved in the mess of Kirkwall. Jove took to his new responsibilities well. He liked leading and liked the men that had come for help.

The ball seemed oddly out of place after all the rebuilding they were busy but the Ambassador knew the power of morale and how to make an impression on the nobles that must be wondering what the Inquisition would do now. He put on formal clothes, not the uniform, but something respectable and speaking of his rank both has a Templar and as a noble.

He, however, pales in comparison to Elareth. She shines brighter than any noble, even those decorated in gold and jewels. It's a miracle he manages to stay away from her. It's only when he notices her deliberately catching his eye that he picked up two fresh glasses of wine and moves over to her.

"A fresh drink, Inquisitor?" he asked, offering her one. With the nobles around he was forced to be formal instead of friendly.

We all have times like that.

[virborassan]

While Josephine would say it had been for morale, Elareth knew better. She knew the Ambassador had been looking for a reason to throw something like this. What better reason than to show that not only had the Inquisition recovered from the final battle with Corypheus, but it was still capable and ready to do more for the good of Thedas. Elareth understood the necessity of it all, but she still disliked the more formal aspects her title carried.

She'd been quietly watching the crowd all evening in between conversations with nobles and each time she caught sight of Jove, she couldn't help but smile. He looked so different all dressed up. She'd decided it was a good look for him even if she wasn't used to it.

When she saw him approaching, she politely excused herself from a rather earnest young man, slipping away before she could answer if she'd save him a dance. That was something she'd have to do, but not want to do if she could help it.

Elareth took the offered glass with a polite nod of her head before motioning for him to join her as she stepped toward a quiet corner. They were on better terms now, but things weren't as they'd been before. It wasn't a bad thing. Just different. She was still adjusting to the changes in their relationship and at times, she wasn't sure how to approach him.

At least she knew that here, nothing but polite smiles and manners would be expected.

"Enjoying yourself, I hope?"

New game = no other life

[weatherthestorm]

"I'd much rather be yelling at recruits, honestly," he said with a smile for her. "But Josephine looks pleased by the current state of things so I'd say the evening is worth it."

Once again, the Inquisition would be the talk of the nobility. There was always the possibility that Josephine made a few deals that would help the money flow and the relief efforts continue.

"We could always come up with some emergency for you to go handle. Reports of a stray rift in the Hinterlands?" he offered since he knew she despised these things.

Oooh, what did you get?

[virborassan]

She couldn't help but laugh. As nice as his suggestion was, she knew she couldn't use that kind of excuse anymore. Shambling undead, maybe, but even those were fewer and far between now that things seemed to be returning to normal. Even the mark on her hand had gone quiet, the eerie glow faded to nothing more than a normal looking scar splitting her hand. It would've looked nasty if it had been gained in a battle, but it just looked normal now.

Normal was something she'd never really be, but she'd been used to always being on the go for so long. Now, she spent more time talking and just being somewhere rather than having something to do.

Things had a habit of changing quickly, though. There were some rumors that the new Divine was seeking advisers on new relations between the Chantry and the mages and Elareth was one of the few mentioned in said rumors by name. Some folk,old and set in their ways, grumbled about what a bad idea it was, to give mages freedom and such, so that situation could prove to be volatile if not handled correctly. Add on recent frosty receptions by Celene and the Orlesian court and the growing potential for strife with the Imperium and she might not just be stuck smiling and looking pretty. For now, she'd be alright tolerating being a figurehead for the Inquisition. She had a feeling the real work would come again soon.

"Oh, Josephine is practically giddy when she's taking time to breathe and if I could find something to fight that deserved it, I would. I never thought I'd miss hunting dragons."

It's called Evolve.

[weatherthestorm]

Jove made a face at the mention of dragons. He did not have fond memories of those fights where he spent most of the time dodging fire or ice or lightning and the rest of it actually on fire, frozen or stunned. He was glad they were done with dragon hunting.

"You could train some mages," he offered as a suggestion. "Maybe go have some fun with Bull and the Chargers. You can be Dalish for awhile."

If there was nothing for her but parties and balls, he knew she would quickly get bored of it. She couldn't live that sort of life, it wasn't for her. She needed to be out doing something, actually helping, not simply pushing papers.

[virborassan]

His face just made her grin a bit impishly. She knew him well enough to know that would get a reaction and sure enough, she hadn't been disappointed. It'd been fun, in a way, to get back to being like this with Jove. Romance was all well and good and while part of her missed how close they'd been, it was nice to be able to be friends with him again. Well, very close friends. She knew she still loved him, but she knew it would take a good deal of time to repair the damage she'd done. While she'd never been a patient soul before, she was willing to wait as long as necessary. He was worth waiting for.

Sipping at her wine, she let her gaze wander the crowd once again. Old habit from far too long out in the field. It was hard to get used to not always having to watch ones back, after all.

"Fun with Bull and the Chargers usually ends up with someone hurt, on fire or hung over. Maybe all three. I've had enough fun with them for a little while. I.. might be going somewhere for a few weeks. Soon. There's a clan nearby that I'd like to visit and I think I'll be traveling to meet with Leliana soonish. No rest for the wicked, I'm afraid. You've been busy as of late, as well. I've missed seeing you."

[weatherthestorm]

"The Commander asked for my help and as we're not hunting dragons, I thought to give it," he explained though his tone said he knew why she had mentioned dragons and he wasn't amused. "It's nice to have something to give back and help make a new Templar order, one to be proud of."

It's nice to have purpose, though he wondered what his purpose with her was. They were friends and more, careful with each other this time and he wondered how they would move forward when they were being so careful.

"Did Liliana say why she wanted to meet?" he asked, curious. The new Divine was making some very outrageous choices that many people were not happy with. He was somewhere on the fence. She was good and change was needed but how far until Thedas revolted?

Remind me why I volunteered to work a 14 hour day today?

[virborassan]

His tone at her teasing gave her pause and made her smile smooth out a bit. Her heart was his, that was sure, but now, she second guessed herself constantly with him. She missed him being so close and she wanted their old intimacy back, but she wouldn't dare push. Not after she'd hurt him. Her own actions had caused her self-confidence to slip a bit, but she did her best to try and keep things light and cheerful around him.

It wasn't easy, though.

She let someone walk past them, bowing her head with a polite smile as they greeted her before they shuffled away.

"She's wanting my opinion on how to deal with the new freedoms mages are enjoying and ideas on how to better open the lines of communication between the Chantry and the mages. She thinks my current popularity will help them be more open to actually helping organize a system of governance where the mages have a true say in things. I think she's also interested in information about how the Dalish teach their mages without the need for Templar oversight since the mages are still pretty wary of anything to do with the Templars."

Because you're a good employee.

[weatherthestorm]

The intimacy was slowly coming back but Jove knew he was holding back. It was hard for him to let her back in and perhaps it was a bit unfair.

"Why don't we get some fresh air?" he said, putting a hand on her arm and leading her away to a balcony. There were too many people here to listen in and find out what they're talking about. Rumors still flew around Skyhold.

Besides, he liked the fresh air and quiet. "It's been hard to convince some Templars to give up their sacred duty," he said with a small frown. "She might have some trouble there. I would appreciate if you pass the word on to her."

It's either that or the overtime I'll end up with this week.

[virborassan]

She might be patient, but she'd never admit that it was frustrating walking away from him each night they saw each other. Life had changed so much and she wished she could share some of it, but she wouldn't. Not anymore. Not until he was ready. If he was never ready, then so be it.

She knew why he'd wanted to retreat to the balcony. Not to long ago, their conversation might've been joined with quick, stolen kisses but now, once they were outside, she stepped back from him a little. It wasn't avoidance, but polite distance. After all, just a glance at the wrong time could start up rumors and she had enough to deal with at the moment.

"I'll be sure to let her know. I'm sure she's already figured on it, though. The mages might be hard to bring along, but I'm hoping they'll listen. In the end, I'd like to be able to have some peace between the mages and the Templars. It would go a long way toward easing some of the recent strife."

And then there was holiday and stuff to do.

[weatherthestorm]

"If people can put aside their zealotry for a few minutes and talk, perhaps," he said as he leaned against the heavy stone rail.

He didn't let her walk far. He reached out and gently took her wrist in his hand. He drew her close to stand with him, within reach. The distance between them didn't need to be as far as she put between them. He was not a visiting dignitary.

"I feel I should mention a conclave wouldn't be amiss but Maker knows what that started last time. I don't know if we should risk it."

Happy hearts day, by the way!

[virborassan]

There was a pause when she felt his hand around her wrist but there was no hesitation when he pulled her closer. She would rarely protest such a thing, especially now. After a moment, she let her gaze drift away from his hand, not even realizing that she'd looked down.

"I don't think I'd want to be at the next one but it I doubt I'd have a choice, if it happened. Creators know what I'd end up with if that one messed up."

He was right, though. Things could work if people would just stop and listen to each other. Hadn't the Inquisition proven that?

All the chocolate and wine!

[weatherthestorm]

"I think people will insist you be there. They have see the Inquisitor save the world. They expect you can end this foolish war between the mages and Templars," he said gently as he stroked his thumb back and forth across her wrist. "And maybe we would be better prepared. I hope there aren't any more old magisters running around."

The idea of more like Corypheus is terrifying to Jove. The war against him was hard enough. To fight another one would be draining. Did they have the resources and men? He didn't know the answer.

"Until then, perhaps the new Divine can do something."

Which I have both of right here and no plans to work tomorrow, so yay!

[virborassan]

Chuckling under her breath, she shot him a soft smile. Once the war with Corypheus was done, she figured things would calm down and after some time, she'd be able to go back to just being her. Oh, how wrong she was. If anything, she was busier now. People wanted her attention. Crimes demanded judgement. Crises needed solving and apparently, she was the only one fit to do it. People had no idea just how many people had worked behind the scenes to make the Inquisition work in the first place.

At least the Divine knew, yet she still called on Elareth for assistance.

She'd taken the changes with grace, for the most part. Oh, there'd been some grumbling, but she wouldn't be Elareth without some grumbling.

"I'm only one person, though. That particular war has been going on for far too long. I hope it can be resolved now that the Divine has started to implement her changes. I know they're not very popular to some and neither am I for backing them and her. I'm starting to think another Corypheus might be easier to deal with."

Best Valtine's Day.

[weatherthestorm]

"Corpyheus was very clearly the bad guy. The fight is easy in that case. This war is much more complicated. There are good and bad people on each side."

There were shining examples of mages like her, Vivienne and even Dorian when Jove wasn't inclined to punch him. There were good Templars like himself, Cullen and Lysette. Yet, the Templars would be seen as good first, long before mages. It was unfair.

"Before all of this begins, you should go off and see that clan you mentioned," he said softly. "Do something for yourself."

Cheers.

[virborassan]

"There are good and bad on every side."

That was part of the hardship of war, no matter what side you fought for. Add on years of animosity and that just made it all the more complicated. Old minds would never be changed, but perhaps they could still salvage their efforts with younger minds. Change the way things were seen before youngsters could be taught to hate and fear.

She knew that in the end, it would be her life's work.

"... I might. There are still things to work out, but... I think I'm owed a little selfish time. I won't come back the same, though. I'm thinking of doing something I put off before I left for the Conclave. I never had a chance to go back and finish it."

[ooc: You know this evening won't go well, don't you? I've got dastardly things in mind.]

[weatherthestorm]

"That makes it sound incredibly ominous," he said, trying not to sound too worried. "I'm sure it's not though?"

He hoped it wasn't because things should be better now. There was more peace than ever. Even the Hinterlands were quiet compared to how they were when they first traveled through them.

"I sound like a horrible mother hen don't I?" Jove rubbed his free hand across the back of his neck and smiled sheepishly at her.

[virborassan]

He did and it was charming. For a moment, she did her best to look serious, as if the situation could indeed be most dire. It didn't last, though. Not when he shot her that smile. Even now, after everything that had happened between them, it never failed to make her smile.

Chuckling, she shook her head and reached up to lay her hand on his raised elbow.

"It's nothing dangerous. I'm going to get my vallaslin. The blood writing that adorns most adult Dalish. I should've had mine earlier but I'd never decided on what until it was almost time to leave for the Conclave. I never had a chance to go back after. Not too long ago, I petitioned a clan that allied itself with mine in the past and asked their Keeper if they would be amenable to performing the ritual for me since Deshanna can't anymore."

Annnd I'm the moron who thought they replied to this.

[weatherthestorm]

"That's going to be a change," he said, trying to imagine her face with the tattoos he'd seen on other Dalish out there. "What are you going to get? I mean which vallaslin?"

His accent on the elven isn't close to being proper but he tried. He was not very good with the Elvish language. He wasn't very good with the Elven Gods. He was simply trying his best to be respectful.

It's all good!

[virborassan]

She's used to hearing people mangle things like that. With him, she doesn't mind too much. She knew he was trying and respectful in his efforts. If he wanted, she'd be willing to teach him a few things, when they had more time available. As it was, they'd cut into sleep if they tried at the moment.

"When I was younger, I wanted Mythal but now that I've grown up a bit, I think Falon’Din would be a better fit for me. The God of Death and Fortune... fitting, isn't it?"

She'd let her hand drop again, but there was no move to step away.

"It'll be a quick trip. A week or so at best. Maybe ten days if the ritual takes longer than I expect."

[weatherthestorm]

"Death?" He frowned a little at that. "Are you sure?"

Death didn't suit her if she asked him. He thought beauty or grace might be better but he didn't know if there was an Elven God that fit those traits and in the end the choice was not his.

It was her that picked and the Dalish that would support her choice. He would have to adjust and accept.

[virborassan]

Her smile softened as her hand still in his grip shifted, settling with her palm against his. It was one of the most daring things she'd done since they'd reconciled, as she'd done what she could to respect his want for a bit of distance and time.

"Falon’Din is a friend to the dead. It's mercy. Before the elves quickened, they never died. They went on to enter uthenera, the long sleep where they'd walk beyond the Veil with Falon'Din and his brother Dirthamen, the keeper of secrets. I wasn't the most merciful of people when we were fighting Corypheus. This is a reminder to me that grace and mercy can still be found in judgement."

[weatherthestorm]

"Ah, I see." That did sound much better that what he was imagining.

Friend of the Dead had made him think of necromancy and those strange priests from Nevarra, not someone escorting the dead through the Fade.

"We will keep things from falling apart while you're gone." He lifted her hand to his lips and kissed her knuckles. "We won't let the walls fall down."

[virborassan]

She was glad it was evening already. Thanks to the darker air, he likely wouldn't be able to see the faint blush coloring her cheeks. Still, he'd likely know by the way her smile quirked a bit to one side and the quick drop of her gaze.

"I have no doubt, good Ser. You've done well holding things together in the past and I trust you implicitly."

She paused as if to say more only to be interrupted by someone just off the balcony clearing their throat. This time, the smile turned wry as she glanced away only to smooth out completely.

"It seems I need to reappear in public for a bit. I promised someone a dance, but I plan to make it a quick one. Shall I slip back out here in a bit?"

[weatherthestorm]

He looked around her shoulder at the person interrupting them. Of course it was some noble. It was always some noble who wanted her time.

"If I am not out here I'm sure you'll be able to find me." He did tend to stand out in a crowd. Or he could go stand next to the Iron Bull and that would make him very noticeable.

He let her hand go so that she was free to leave. These days he trusted that she would return.