Shadows over Nevarra: The Grand Tourney (In progress)

After Sabina had left the room, Ellas reflected on their conversation. Perhaps he had been a bit impertinent with his questions but it did seem his initial feelings about the mage’s character had been justified. However, as Oswyn had pointed out, whatever else the mage may have done, Ellas had a duty to stick to the facts with respect to the crime he was currently accused of.

He examined the list of prime suspects again; that is people who had used the private apartments during the evening. Apart from servants and guards, most were relatives of either Duke Sandral or Rainer Aehrenthal. It seemed inconceivable that they would have been stupid enough to commit the crime at such an inopportune time with nothing to gain from it.

Next he questioned the two guards who had been on duty at the entrance to the private quarters. They confirmed the sequence of guests leaving the public area in the period leading up to the murder. Most were simply visiting Prince Ferdinand and returned to the public area straight after. The guards had been instructed to observe anyone as far as the Prince’s room to ensure they didn’t go any further into the private area and his personal guards would have done the same when they left, so only those on his short list would have had the opportunity to act against the Qunari.

“Tylus Anaxas and Gabrielle Aehrenthal were the first to leave,” the senior guard, Leo, confirmed. “That must have been a good ten minutes before the Qunari. Then around five minutes after the ox-men, Pontifex Anaxas came through and then after a similar amount of time, the Vint with his servant.”

“So Sabina Barbus didn’t leave with him?”

“No, she left around ten minutes later with the servant and seemed somewhat reluctant to do so.”

The other guard, Matty, nodded his agreement with this statement.

“The servant wanted her to go with her but at first she objected. Then the servant seemed to say something that persuaded her and they both carried on down the corridor.”

“Once we had observed them by-pass Prince Ferdinand, we disregarded what they did next as we had been asked to be discrete. The whole purpose of this wing is for private entertaining, if you catch my drift.” Leo winked.

“Which is why you didn’t see anyone enter or leave the Qunari’s apartments?”

“That is correct, Sirrah; we could vaguely hear doors open and close but we couldn’t say which ones.”

Ellas considered the matter. “But you would be able to count the number of times doors did open and close?”

“Only if they were noisy about it,” said Leo. “Most of what we could hear came from in front of us. There was the buzz of conversation and also the music.

“Okay, but how many times were they noisy about it, say, after the Qunari went through?”

The guards looked at one another and both frowned thoughtfully.

“There was the door opening and closing for the Qunari, I’d assume.” said Leo. “They didn’t make any attempt to be quiet and I remember it slammed shut. Then after the mage went through, a door opening and closing faintly, so probably down the far end.”

“What about when the Pontifex went through before him?”

The two guards looked at one another shrugged.

“Nothing so far as I can recall,” said Leo. He looked to Matty for confirmation. “I’m right aren’t I?”

Matty nodded. “There was nothing between the ox-men and the mage that we could hear. Then nothing afterwards until the servant came past us. She stood looking down at the guests, before beckoning to one of them and Sabina Barbus came up.”

“Then they went down the corridor,” Leo continued, “but we didn’t hear a door.”

“Then after the servant went through another door opening and a thump as she fainted and dropped the water jug she was carrying. Leo sent me to investigate and one of the Prince’s guards did so as well. That’s when we saw them.” He made a face. “Don’t mind admitting I nearly threw up.”

“I joined them and we started throwing open doors,” continued Leo. “That’s when the servant of the Vint appeared at the end of the corridor. We went to find out what she knew and discovered the Vint and the lady Barbus at the entrance to the viewing tower.”

“Not in one of the private rooms?”

“No, Sirrah,” confirmed Leo. “It seemed an odd place for an assignation when he had access to better.”

“You think that was what they were about?” Ellas couldn’t hide his disbelief bearing in mind what Sabina had just told him, although it could explain her reluctance to discuss the matter.

Leo shrugged. “Not for me to say but the lady was on her knees when we got there and she couldn’t get away quick enough once we had.”

“Did you hear anything other than the doors opening and closing, the sound of a scuffle, for instance, or raised voices?”

“We barely heard the doors,” said Matty, “and that was probably only because of a lull in the music at the time.”

Ellas thanked them for their time and they left the room, leaving him to write his notes. It struck him as odd that there had been no indication of the attack taking place. Surely if the Pontifex or the mage had entered the room, it would have drawn the attention of the Qunari and there would have been a verbal challenge or response of some sort? Yet the guards had heard nothing but the sound of a few doors opening and closing.

He looked at the names of the couple who had apparently been in the adjoining room, Tylus Anaxas and Gabrielle Aehrenthal. Surely they would have heard something? He invited them for questioning next. He started with Gabrielle, a pretty flirtatious young woman.

“I won’t ask what you were doing,” he said dryly, “but did Tylus leave you at any point?”

“Why would he want to do that?” Gabrielle said suggestively. “When we were having such a delightful time together?”

“I’ll take that as a negative then,” Ellas sighed. “Did you hear anything?”

Gabrielle giggled. “You mean beyond his groans of ecstasy?”

“Yes, exactly,” Ellas said with irritation, “from the adjoining room?”

“Not that I recall but I was somewhat distracted by my partner.”

Ellas realised this was not going to be a very productive conversation and decided to invite Tylus in as well. He repeated the question.

“The walls are thick and pretty soundproof,” Tylus said in practical fashion. “That was a deliberate design feature to ensure privacy no matter what the rooms are being used for. I believe they also placed magical glyphs in the walls as well to ensure this would be the case.”

“Would most people be aware of this?”

“I don’t know about most people but anyone from the palace would be.”

At last Ellas felt he had some useful information. Perhaps the timing and location were expedient after all if the perpetrator wanted to be able to act without causing a disturbance. Then a thought occurred to him.

“What about the windows? It is a warm night. Weren’t they open?”

The young couple glanced at one another.

“Actually I did open the doors to the balcony when we entered the room as it was rather stuffy,” said Tylus.

“And you still heard nothing?”

“The music drifting up from below but other than that,” Tylus shrugged.

“Wait a minute,” said Gabrielle. “I did hear something. Don’t you remember, darling? As you came back to bed, there was the hoot of an owl.”

“Oh yes, and I said I hoped it was not an ill omen.” He made a face. “It seems I was wrong about that.”

“Very well, thank you for your time.”

Ellas felt he was back to square one. No one had heard anyone enter the room after the Qunari or the sound of anything to suggest the murders were taking place. He quickly went down the hall to the room that the couple had occupied. There was a small balcony to which double doors opened out. He examined the wall from there. It was smooth, with little opportunity for footholds to climb and there was no foliage close by that could allow entry to either that room or the next balcony along, which was the room occupied by the Qunari. It was also far enough away that Tylus could not have jumped there or returned the same way, nor was there any sign of a connecting door, so it was unlikely that his partner had been lying when she declared he had been with her the entire time. As he went to leave the room he noticed the key in the lock. Naturally people who wished for privacy would need to be able to lock the door but that meant the Qunari should have been able to lock their door too. He quickly checked back with the guards who confirmed that each room was lockable but that servants had a duplicate pass key, so one only really needed to bribe or coerce a servant to obtain access.

He returned to his examination room and read through his notes again. There really wasn’t much to go on apart from the Tevinter mage but Ellas was fairly certain that he couldn’t have committed the crime alone even if he was guilty. Yet the only mage with whom he had an obvious connection in the city was the Duke’s brother, Pontifex Anaxas. He seemed ruled out for the same reason as the others; it was such a crass and reckless thing to do. If he had truly wanted the Qunari dead, there had to have been a more discrete way of achieving this end.

Ellas weighed up who he should approach first, Lord Scribonianus or Viuus Anaxas and eventually decided on the latter. He had objected to the accusation against his guest and had put forward the idea of him being set up. Ellas realised that begged the question of who might want to set him up and why? So logically he needed to quiz the Pontifex and find out more. He asked a servant to fetch the man.

Viuus Anaxas was very much standing on his dignity as he entered the room. He gave Ellas a pointed look when he didn’t rise to greet him, which Ellas chose to ignore, simply inviting him to take a seat. The Pontifex did so and then stared at Ellas with a degree of hostility.

“I am not accustomed to being ordered about by mere servants,” he sniffed. “Still, I understand that you are working for Lord Sighard and he is trying to make sense of this evening’s events, so what do you wish to know?”

“First, I would point out that I am not a mere servant and have also been given full authority to act in this matter with or without reference to Lord Sighard. However, if you do not feel you wish to accept my judgement, please say so now and I shall allow your guest to suffer whatever fate your brother deems appropriate.”

Viuus Anaxas held his gaze for a moment and then nodded; his face relaxing as he said grudgingly. “I am grateful for you efforts in trying to establish the truth.”

Ellas inclined his head in acceptance of what amounted to an apology. “Now tell me what you know of Lord Scribonianus. How long have you known him?”

“We only met for the first time this morning but he came with a recommendation from my contact in Tevinter, Magister Pavus, a former member of the Inquisition. He is trying to stamp out corruption in his homeland and helped form a faction known as the Lucerni to this end. Lord Scribonianus is a member.”

“I see, so that is the basis on which your confidence in him is based?”

“That is correct.”

“He clearly didn’t expect to find the Qunari here, so he certainly couldn’t have planned the crime in advance. What was his business here? I get the feeling the Tourney was not his prime reason.”

“No, he came to see me on a mission for Magister Pavus. I was here in my official capacity so that is how he came to be my guest at the proceedings. He arrived a mid-day and came straight to the Opening Ceremony with me.”

“Which is where he first saw the Qunari,” Ellas recalled. “I gather he wasn’t happy about that and voiced his objections quite loudly.”

“That is so.”

“Which could have given someone who overheard him the idea that he could be implicated in their murder,” Ellas mused. “Even so, I’m struggling to see the benefit to anyone in doing so. He is not an official representative of Tevinter so there is nothing political to be gained from it.”

“Not directly with respect to Tevinter but until their motive is known who knows if the ploy was successful? Still, I think he was simply unlucky. Had he not left the public area when he did, he might never have been accused. However, once he had put himself in a compromising situation, others were quick to capitalise on it.”

“You mean the Grand Enchanter?” Ellas said with a smirk.

The Pontifex didn’t reply verbally but the expression on his face suggested an affirmative.

“To be honest,” he continued, “I think someone was trying to implicate me. I was called away from the Reception by a message saying I was required urgently in the crypt of the Sun Dome. That area is the domain of the Mortalitasi but it is a source of tension with the Grand Enchanter that we insist upon maintaining our presence there. It is one of the vaults of the dead within the city, so my duties require me to oversee its management. Naturally I assumed a problem must have arisen with one of the corpses awaiting transport to the Grand Necropolis, so I excused myself and went at once. However, when I got there, I found nothing amiss, only to return to find my guest accused of these horrific murders.”

“And you think that had he not been, then they might have pointed the finger at you?”

“They already have. If you have seen the bodies then it can’t have escaped your notice that it would have required considerable magical power to have overcome all four of them at the same time.”

“It had,” Ellas agreed. He decided not to mention the fact that he also suspected the lethal spell was one of necromancy.

“The message meant that I passed through the private wing on my way to the Sun Dome and thus directly past the room with the Qunari. There was no one in the crypt to vouch for my arrival, so no way of accounting for the time I was away from the Reception.”

“What about guards on the door to the Sun Dome?”

“There are none. It is magically warded with only the Grand Enchanter and me having the password. This dates back to the time of the old College of Enchanters and Circle being based there. Naturally it needed to be secure so residents of the palace were safe should the Templars lose control.”

“So unless the Grand Enchanter or you gave the password to someone else, it would have been impossible for anyone but the two of you to gain access to the palace?”

“That is correct.”

“Do you still have the note?”

“I do,” He withdrew it from his pocket and handed it to Ellas, “but I can see how it could be argued that I simply arranged for the note myself, to give me an alibi whilst I did the deed, and that Lord Scribonarius followed on at a pre-arranged interval to assist me.”

“So if you have been set up, by whom? Are you suggesting the Grand Enchanter might have done this?”

Viuus shook his head. “She might be quick enough to point the finger at mages outside her jurisdiction but I think she would more likely assist others in an indirect way than she would stoop to such a barbaric act personally for political ends. However, I would not put it past her associates in the Chantry to authorise the deed.”

“But the Qunari were guests of the Divine.”

“The Divine has many enemies both within and without her organisation. Grand Cleric Iona is the senior clergy in Nevarra and had aspirations for the Sunburst Throne herself until the Inquisition blocked her ambitions. She is conservative in outlook and has publicly denounced the Divine for her reforms since taking office. She has also backed the Grand Enchanter in retaining the Sun Dome. She has many friends outside of Nevarra, in particular among Orlesian nobility who oppose the Divine, several of whom were in attendance at the Reception and are being entertained by her at her residence adjacent to the Chantry that adjoins the Sun Dome.”

“She is not a mage though.
”
“There are many loyalist mages besides the Grand Enchanter whom she could call upon. All the Grand Enchanter would need to do is provide the password to allow them access to the palace.”

“Even so, why would they seek to implicate you?”

“I have been backing my brother in his call to have the Sun Dome returned to the crown of Nevarra, for use as he sees fit. At the very least we have said it should be given to the Mortalitasi for our work in the city and as a base of training for young members of the order in the south of our country. So by discrediting me they remove a local agitator and make a political point at the same time.”

“You really think they would be so hypocritical as to use a mage in this way?”

“They are predominately Orlesians, so they would stoop to any means they deem necessary. The last Divine was nearly assassinated by a mage at a Grand Ball held in her honour in Val Royeaux and to which he could only have gained admittance with the assistance of the nobility. It is all part of the Game.”

“And you have no other enemies, for example among the Mortalitasi?”

“None that could have gained access to that wing without my authorisation, which I hasten to add I did not give.”

“Very well, I thank you for your thoughts on the matter."

“So you will consider them when weighing up the evidence against my guest?”

Ellas nodded. “I may need to consult with you again once I have considered the matter further.”

“Well you know where to find me. My brother has felt it expedient to confine me to the palace until the investigation is complete, for appearances sake.”

The Pontifex rose to his feet and left the room in dignified manner leaving Ellas to reflect on all he had said. He decided he had enough to think about for one night and would leave questioning Lord Scribonianus until the morning. There were aspects to what he had discovered thus far that didn’t seem to make sense or fit the scenarios that had been suggested to him and he felt that perhaps he wasn’t asking the right questions. Possibly Oswyn and Jasce could give him some insights once he had discussed his findings so far with them. Identifying the type of magic used would also be helpful and for that he needed to consult with Issala.

Dismissing the servant who was awaiting his further bidding, he made his way back to where Oswyn and Jasce were relaxing in the public area, now largely devoid of guests, the majority having left after being given leave to do so.

“I’ve done all I can for tonight,” he informed them. “So let’s get back to camp. On the way, I’ll show you what I’ve discovered so far."

---

---

Durk woke, sun filtering into his room through an uncovered window. It was later than he thought. He rolled over, only then remembering he had a bed-mate. "Get up sleepyhead." his hand shook her shoulder gently. "You're late."

"Hmm, what—oh, sod it." Liha sat up, rubbing sleep from her eyes, only then realizing she was wearing nothing. "Gah, where's my clothing?" She leapt out of bed, and picked up her clothing from where she had dropped it. She eyed Durk, and shook her head as she dressed. "Mind not ogling me so much? Cloud gazer." she said, her smirk belying her words. "This was a mistake."

Durk chuckled. "Didn't feel like a mistake last night." he grinned at her and stretched. "What's your rush? Roshek going to dock your pay?"

"Shut up, ass" she said, shaking her head, but grinning. "Roskek can't find out about this. He's—"

"What? You mean, you two are..." Durk rolled over on his side, one arm propping up his head. "I didn't know. Well, don't worry, I'm not one to kiss and tell. Or, well, that and tell."

"It's not that." Liha shook her head, "It's just—complicated." She adjusted her gown from the gala. "I don't want to talk about it. or this. Ever again. I never do this sort of thing." She marched towards the door. "Now, I have to get back to my own quarters before he notices." she sighed.

"There's still time. The muckety mucks don't get up til noonish." he rolled back onto his back, his hands behind his head. "That was some mess, wasn't it? The murder and all."

Liha stopped, and looked at him. "Yes, good luck sorting that out if they ask you to help. You can call on me too, of course."

"Oh, I will," Durk winked, and received a shoe in his face for his effort.

"Hush, I meant for the investigation." Liha said, supressing a smirk, "I'm leaving. Remember, not another word." She pointed at him, shaking her finger.

"Not another word, I promise. I'll treasure the memory in silence." Durk ran his finger across his lips, as if to seal them.

Liha laughed and shook her head. "You're impossible." She opened the door and exited, closing it quietly behind her.

Durk sighed and sat up, dressing as well. It was going to be a long day, full of who knows what demands from pompous deshyrs. The previous evening at the gala had been interesting despite the ugliness surrounding the murder. His night with Liha had been a surprise as well. He hadn't set out to seduce the other Secod, but he didn't regret that it happened. He admitted to himself curiousity as to Liha's exact relationship with Roshek though. In any case, she was a good ally to have if events surrounding the murders went south. And they were bound to, with an entire company of Qunari murdered.

Now dressed, he left his room, ready to face whatever the day brought.

---

---

Roshek struggled to adjust the straps of his formal armour, on his own, for the second time, before giving up. "First my new-found brother disappears, and now Liha." he grumbled to himself. It wasn't like her to be late.

Soon enough, Liha burst into the room, looking slightly disheveled. "Sorry, my lord." Not offering any explanation, she busied herself with fastening straps he couldn't reach.

He was about to ask why she was late, but thought better of it. There was no terrible urgency to the day, beyond preparing for the first event of the tourney. The murders were of more import. "I didn't get a chance to ask, what did you make of the events of the gala?"

"I don't know what ramification the surfacers will have to deal with," Liha said, "but it seems we may be asked to get involved somewhat, as neutral agents. Do you want to involve yourself?"

"If asked," Roshek nodded. "Let's go to breakfast." He continued as they walked to the dining room, "Since Durk has approached the Human lord with an offer of assistance, I'm more than willing to provide what aid I can as well."

"Of course, my lord," she replied, her expression changing at mention of the cloud gazer, "More immediately, you've been exempted from the initial trials for the first competition, of course, but the other warriors will need to attend and pass their trials, including Edrick."

"Yes, that's another thing. Where has he disappeared to?" Roshek frowned. "I'll have to have a word with him about respecting his commitments."

"I'm sure he will show up soon." Liha shrugged.

They entered the dining area, for breakfast. A small private room had been set aside for himself and Oerik, who was also not yet present.

Eventially Oerik and Durk did arrive, Liha pointedly ignoring Durk. Roshek shrugged. They didn't have to get along to work together, he supposed.

He nodded at Oerik. "Are the warriors ready for their trials?"

"Of course," Oerik responded. "With Edrick leading them, they should pass through easily. He's a fine fighter."

"And still absent," Roshek grumbled. "he better be there on time."

"I will see that he is," Liha assured him.

“This is so...draining.” Master dragged out the last word, then let loose a disgusted noise.

She could not guess what he was struggling with. She knew his cell had been enchanted with glyphs to block his magic use. She could only guess what that must feel like for her Master. She could not tell the time, as there were no windows in their cells. She could only guess from general weariness that it was likely very early morning but still before the dawn.

“Does no one care that I'm locked up?” Her master added, tired anger and frustration evident in his tone.

Zucca pressed herself even harder into the corner of her cell nearest her master’s cell. Her forehead to the bars, warming them over time. She glared at the Templar guarding them, and the woman spared only an unforgiving glance back.

“Lady Scribonarius.” Zucca offered.

“Ha! You're right.” Master replied. “Mother would care a lot. She'd insist on a fresh set of robes and feather stuffed pillows for me to sleep on.”

Her Master was quiet for a while. She liked to think that perhaps she had cheered him with thoughts of his beloved mother, and felt a satisfied pleasure in having thought of it. She closed her eyes, trying to let her other senses watch over him. She could hear him trying to get comfortable on the cot, at least she guessed, as she heard cloth on cloth and the crinkle of dry hay. Then just silence.

Zucca took a deep breath and released it slowly, focusing herself on being relaxed and the act of listening.

“Zucca.”

“Master.” She replied, waking herself up from the doze she’d fallen into.

She rubbed her forehead, feeling the marks from having been pressed between the bar and the stone for so many minutes.

“My mind is disheveled, Zucca.” She heard him curse, something about glyphs. “Speak so I'm distracted.”

Her mind raced, grasping. She hadn’t been called on to speak at length since she had trained to be lady’s companion in her childhood. That was a lifetime ago.

“What do you want me to speak about, Master?”

“Anything will do, just speak.”

The book of sonnets from Lady’s Scribionaus’s library sprung to mind.

“When first I summoned her, she was a rose,
Unwithering, unchanging, and unthorned,
A spirit of the purest love one knows,
Who never hated, coveted, or scorned.

A second time I drew her 'cross the Veil,
And shared a walk, a dance, a stolen kiss;
With such a perfect beauty, pure and pale,
No woman could compare, no man resist.

Then in my weakness I essayed a third,
Tho' magisters their warnings did impart.

She broke my binding with a single word,
And said this smiling as she clutched my heart:
"Though love I was, your passion's changing fire
Has forged this spirit into cruel Desire."

Having finished her recitation, she continued to kneel silently waiting for any further orders. But it seemed her master had found the rest he’d wanted. So after many minutes, she rose, grabbed the linens off the cot, and brought them to the corner nearest the bars. She would be as available as she could be, even now.

---

The poem is not my creation: Sonnet 126, "The Lover and His Spirit", from A Chant for Dreamers by Magister Oratius--- tagging gervaise21 and Space Cowboy

---

As Ellas was leaving the tent he spotted Argos close to the entrance keeping watch. Any agents of the Qun in the city would have far more to concern themselves about than one solitary Tal'Vashoth, so he thought the mabari could be spared guard duties for a few hours. He realised the hound might be able to give a different perspective to his inspection of the room, so he whistled to him.



"Come on lad, I may need your nose."



Argos gave an enthusiastic bark and followed him out of camp.



With every step closer to the city,it grew noisier and noisier .The stands and their perspective wares also seemed to multiply.Likewise,the crowd got denser and livelier .
The sound of steel on steel could be heard on the distance underneath the sounds of people,animals and the festive music.


Loyalty wasn’t really interested in weapons and armor,but even he could not pass up the opportunity to admire some of the most elegant and finely crafted armaments.He was certain he even spied an armor his size at a certain point.


While the colorful metal armors didn’t really spark the Mabari’s attention,their leather counterparts certainly did.The smell of freshly boiled leather excited him.He clenched his teeth and took a deep breath through his wet shiny nose.Many times in the past he would actually be found chewing on either Ellas’ boot or Burren’s pouch.
It wasn’t something the Spirit could control so he went along with the caprices of his canine host.


Among the shouting and haggling there was even mention of armor made of dragon bone.”Now that would be something worth a chew!”Ellas said while staring at the dog smiling,and that was exactly the latter’s thought.
Aside from that small anecdote the elf seemed to be absent-minded throughout their walk. Loyalty could sense that all too well but was still much too interested in the surrounding environment to ponder upon it very much.



The food stands where naturally quite appealing.The plethora of smells overwhelmed the mabari who was now drooling.From herbs to nuts,and spices to wine,not to mention all manner of meat and fish from all parts of Thedas.Many other canines have been called upon by the aromas and where trying to catch whatever small piece was accidentally dropped or discarded.
The Mabari knew that he could easily fend off all the other dog’s off ,even the sellers,and have a taste of everything,but he knew that there were manners more pressing.

Not to mention Loyalty’s interest in food was way lesser than what a mabari’s oughted to be.Still it was still very fascinating for him to discover that there were so many edible kinds of meat beyond nugs.

The elf paced purposefully but nimbly through the crowd towards the grand wall.Even a handful of Chevaliers parading through the streets on their handsome orlesian coursers didn’t seem to faze him.Instead he hastened his step.”Almost there,boy!”


Loyalty run closer to Ellas.They were now just outside the large gates.

The mabari growled.
Ellas was not surprised.

After leaving the palace, Ellas headed for the Sun Dome. On rapping on the door and showing his badge of office, he was admitted and asked to wait.

It was hard to believe but Ellas discovered the interior of the Sun Dome was even grander than the exterior. The entrance vestibule of the Sun Dome was the size of the Reception Chamber the previous evening, with marble pillars holding aloft vaulted ceilings and magnificently painted frescos adorning the walls. In small alcoves all around the perimeter he spied sandstone busts which, according to the historical travel guide of Brother Genitivi, depicted every Grand Enchanter who had held office in the six hundred years since the building was gifted to the Chantry by the Duchess of Cumberland in order that her daughter might continue to live in the manner to which she was accustomed.

It was certainly a far cry from Kinloch Hold and Ellas could understand why the Duke of Cumberland now wished it returned to the State, in other words himself. Clearly this would have been his residence but for the foibles of his predecessor. Ellas found the story concerning the gifting somewhat puzzling though given the status of the Mortalitasi within Nevarra. Surely the daughter could simply have joined their order to enjoy a status not shared by ordinary mages? The existence of the Mortalitasi was something that seemed strange as well given the proximity of Orlais and the fact that initially Nevarra was no more than a city state rather than the powerful nation it was now. Why had the Chantry allowed this mysterious sect to arise and introduce burial customs so at odds with its own religious practices?

He was still musing on this when the door warden returned and instructed him to follow. Ellas was ushered down to the end of the hall and into an even larger chamber with a domed ceiling lined with mahogany. Light reflected off this gave the entire room a rosy glow. At the far end sat Grand Enchanter Vivienne, enthroned in opulent splendour. Ellas realised that instructions must have been given to direct him to her since he had not requested such an audience himself but merely asked to be shown to the prisoner. However, he had been intending asking for an interview after visiting the Tevinter mage, so he thought it expedient not to object to her waylaying him in this way but merely adjust his plans accordingly.

“Greetings, Grand Enchanter Vivienne, I am Ellas Lyndell Tillahnnen and I have been commissioned…..”

“I am well aware of why you are here,” she interrupted him imperiously. “Apparently Lord Aehrenthal does not consider my expert opinion sufficient in this manner, though hardly surprising given his political leanings.”

She gave a click of her fingers at a servant who stood alongside and then gestured to Ellas. As the woman moved forward, he noticed a strange brand on her forehead and realised she must be a tranquil. She handed him a scroll of paper.

“I had Muriel draw up a list of my colleagues in the Sun Dome as you requested.” Grand Enchanter Vivienne informed him. “I also made a point of checking their whereabouts during the period of time in question. As I expected, they were all at evening prayer in the chapel, with the exception of the children who had already retired for the night and the tranquil who were still about their duties. This can be attested by the reverend mother overseeing the service. I hope this will lay to rest the absurd accusations of a conspiracy against the Pontifex by my people.”

“I will certainly take this into consideration when we evaluate the evidence.”

“Then you still entertain such a notion?”

“I am keeping an open mind on the matter.”

“Vacant, I would suggest,” she sneered. “Still, as an outsider such ignorance of the political machinations of the Duke and his family is understandable. Let me enlighten you, my dear. The Sun Dome has been the home of the Grand Enchanter of the College of Magi for the last 600 years. It was gifted at a time when Nevarra was not yet a nation and Cumberland only loosely aligned with the city state of Nevarra City. It is home to a considerable store of magical artefacts and writings from that era onwards. When the Blights threatened Nevarra City, it was decided that other valuable records should be sent south for safekeeping and so the Sun Dome is now greatest magical repository outside of Tevinter. This is the legacy with which I have been entrusted and I intend to keep it out of the clutches of both the secular rulers and the Mortalitasi.”

“Are they not also entitled to such a magical inheritance?”

“Any may request access but not possession. Items may be borrowed with my approval but that is not enough for the Pontifex. Can you imagine the power such objects would give him in the succession?”

“You think his desire for the Sun Dome is purely for personal gain then?”

“Of course, my dear, why would you think otherwise? As for his guest from Tevinter, he makes much of his connection with Magister Pavus through their time with the Inquisition. Viuus Anaxas was merely an advisor on his area of expertise.  I was a member of the Inner Circle and that is why I know how treacherous he and his brother can be. During that period of chaos, loyalist mages who had refused to join the rebellion took shelter in the Sun Dome. A mob was encouraged to attempt an assault on the building and it was in danger of being overrun, the occupants murdered and its treasures stolen. Duke Sandral Anaxas did nothing to prevent this and it was only timely intervention by the Inquisition which prevented a tragedy. At the time it was thought that the mob had been stirred up by agents of the Venatori but if that was the case, why did Duke Sandral do nothing? I’ll tell you why. Those insurrectionists were from the Mortalitasi, though I do not doubt they may have had links to the Venatori.”

“That is a serious accusation. Do you have proof?”

She laughed affectedly. “If I had proof, darling, I’d have used it. There is another fact for you to consider, though. Muriel here is one of the very few surviving tranquil. Many were butchered by the Venatori in order to manufacture a specific item known as oculara, essentially a skull to which a demon has been bound with a horrific magical ritual unknown to the mages of the Circle. However, there is another strange ritual that involves calling a spirit into a skull. It is the first stage that a mage must embark on in order to be accepted into the Mortalitisi. Tell me that is merely a coincidence? That cult is too entrenched in Nevarran society for me to remove them but I will not permit them to have the Sun Dome or its treasures and, what is more, Divine Victoria agrees with me. So I would not have been so foolish as to harm her guests in order to frame the Pontifex. Look elsewhere if you must from the obvious suspect but do not direct you gaze at me.”

“Very well, I thank you for your time but now I must at least give him the opportunity to offer a defence.”

“One final thought,” she said with a chilling smile. “The last time Qunari were found dead at an official gathering of important people, the culprit was an elf, a former member of the Inquisition, claiming to be a simple apostate who turned up out of nowhere offering advice on matters arcane. Tread carefully, my dear, it would be unwise to make an enemy of me.”

The implication was obvious and Ellas was not about to be intimidated. In fact in his mind’s eye he briefly had a vision of the Grand Enchanter enveloped in blue flame, which he found very appealing. He met her gaze directly and gave his own wry smile.

“Well that is a coincidence, I was thinking exactly the same thing,” he responded pleasantly. “Now, with your leave perhaps Muriel could show me the way to Lord Scribonianus.”

Collaboration with Phoray
------------------------------------


After his encounter with Grand Enchanter Vivienne, Ellas felt far more kindly disposed towards Lord Scribonianus. If anything he’d have liked to be able to acquit him simply to spite her. Never had he appreciated more why the elves of the Dales had wished to stay out of human politics. However, history had shown that you couldn’t live in the world with them and not get involved in the end. Also not all humans were the same. Oswyn was a genuinely good person and trusted Ellas to do this right. He would not let him down.

Muriel led him down to the lower levels of the building, Argos padding silently at his heels. They passed an entrance with the symbol of a jewelled skull emblazoned on the door. He assumed that way must lie the crypts. The cell block lay on the floor above and the Templar, Livia Whitestrake, was occupying the guard post. From what he could see of the remains of breakfast on the table and a pallet bed in the corner, it would seem she had been there all night. Clearly she took her job of guarding the prisoner very seriously.

He’d seen Livia Whitestrake at the Reception with Prince Ferdinand but alongside him it hadn’t been apparent just how tall she was. Ellas was tall for an elf but she still towered over him as he halted in front of her. Technically, she was a former Templar, since the order had been officially disbanded, but his skin still crawled at being in such close proximity to her. His entire childhood had been spent on the run from members of the order and his father had died on the end of a Templar sword. Also, he gathered she originated from the Anderfels. Jasce had commented that the inhabitants of that land were known to be among the most fanatically devout of all Andrastrians, so he realised he would need to tread carefully in her presence.

Zucca, Lucius’ bodyguard, came up to the bars and observed him, stony gazed, as he passed. Her devotion to protection was clear, as it seemed even with the bars between them she meant to imply the danger that would befall any who would harm Lucius. Ellas noted that Argos briefly gave a sniff in her direction but was then content to pass her by. This seemed to confirm that she had not been involved in the murders.

His interview with the alleged blood mage was long overdue. Holding up his seal of office, he requested access to the cell. Livia agreed to this with a brief nod and unlocked the door. The moment he stepped across the threshold he was aware of a tingling sensation that he guessed must indicate some form of magical suppression in the room, presumably caused by the strange runes that adorned the walls. He found it vaguely oppressive and felt a tinge of sympathy for the man he was about to interview. To be accused of a crime and held captive in a foreign country would be bad enough but to have spent all night in this room must have been even more unsettling.

Lucius stood near the bars himself, his neck craned slightly as Ellas came into view. Lucius’ robes were creased and his eyes puffy from a restless night in the cell. Catching sight of him, Lucius’ expression changed from drowsy curiosity to weary irritation.

“The elven investigator.” Lucius stretched the words out into a tuneless song. “Anaxas told me you’d be stopping by. I hadn’t guessed the accused would be the last to be questioned.”

Lucius stepped back from the bars and stood in the centre of the cell.

Ellas quickly processed the fact that Viuus Anaxas had been given access to the prisoner, so there might be a degree of collaboration in his testimony. Nevertheless, he made a point of not showing any sign on his face of his irritation this had been allowed and he kept his voice impassive.

“I am Ellas Lyndell Tillahnnen and I have been commissioned to undertake the investigation into the murder of the Qunari delegates.” He held up his badge of office. “I am yet to make any formal accusation against anyone. The decision to detain you was made before I was involved.”

Lucius didn’t bother to look at the badge, just folded his arms and met Ellas’ gaze full on. “I recognize the authority bestowed on you. Do as you’ve been instructed then.”

“I’d like you to run through the sequence of events from your perspective; why you left the Reception when you did, where you went after entering the private wing and anything else you can recall that may be of relevance before the guards apprehended you.”

“I consider what I busied myself with a delicate matter, and it’s only at Anaxas’ urging that I will tell you. It certainly had nothing to do with-” Lucius’ lip curled a bit. “Qunari filth that got invited to the event.”

Ellas noted that his answer had been corroborated to a certain extent by Sabina’s response to his questioning on the matter. However, he also knew that whoever had committed the murders had come from the direction of the tower where this mage had been apprehended, whilst there was no evidence of anyone coming from the direction of the walkway to the Sun Dome. This latter fact did seem to rule out mages loyal to Grand Enchanter Vivienne.

“It would certainly be in your interests to be open with me. So I take it you left in order to avail yourself of the facilities for private entertaining. Why did you end up at the far end of the corridor though? Wouldn’t one of the rooms have been better?”

He cleared his throat. “Yes, we had prepared a room, but I was,”-Lucius shifted his folded arms, embarrassment peeking through. “- keen to see Arri--oh.” He blinked, “Sabina is what you southerners have been calling her. Anyhow, she and I’s time away from each other had been long overdue. I caught up to them in the hallway and we shared some, ah… words of reaffirmation.” A wistful smile crossed his face, softening his sharp features. The smile was gone as quickly as it arrived. “As it was, this reunion was why I left the reception. And nothing seemed amiss, the beasts were far from my mind.”

“Okay, now I’d like you to hold still whilst my mabari inspects you.”

Lucius frowned, disgust at the idea evident. He begrudgingly gave his un-enthusiastic consent. “This is highly unusual, but I suppose the creature isn’t any dirtier than the room I’ve been in all night.”

Ellas gave a whistle and Argos entered the cell, circled Lucius slowly, sniffing all the time before standing back.

“Anything?” Ellas raised a questioning eyebrow at the dog. Argos shook himself with a grunt that suggested a negative.

Lucius raised a perturbed brow at Ellas speaking to the dog. Ellas noticed this and inwardly smiled before restoring his concentration to the serious matter at hand. Whoever had killed the Qunari, it seemed pretty certain it had not been Lord Scribonianus. In which case, it did seem likely that someone had wanted to frame Viuus Anaxas in getting him to leave when he did and his guest had entrapped himself in leaving so soon afterwards. However, he realised, it would be difficult justifying releasing the man on the assurances of a dog. He would have to stay under guard whilst Ellas pursued his other lines of enquiry. Still he felt he should offer him some relief.

“How are you finding this cell? Being locked in an old Templar prison cannot be comfortable for you. I cannot authorise your release until the investigation is complete but is there anything you require to improve your stay?”

Lucius ‘hmmed’ in mollified manner. “A wash basin, preferably with some sort of scented oil.”

Ellas was surprised at the latter request but knew from Burren how important such an item could be in the order of priorities and it was something he felt should easily be arranged. In fact with Burren’s knowledge of Tevinter habits through his relatives’ anecdotes, Ellas thought he might be able to ensure the mage was supplied with something with which he was familiar. He nodded.

“I’m sure that will not be a problem to arrange. Some fresh clothes would also be appreciated, I would imagine.”

Whilst he knew such small considerations wouldn’t totally break down the barriers of mistrust between them, he hoped Lord Scribionanus might be a bit more willing to be open with him.

“Something has occurred to me. Pontifex Anaxas told me he thought someone was trying to frame him. If that is the case then perhaps the timing of the murders was significant. Most of the people he suggested might have a motive could have arranged something politically harmful at any time. So, it has to be connected specifically to the Tourney, the arrival of the Qunari or your mission in the south. I’m curious as to what drew you away from your homeland at a time of war as the Pontifex told me you came to see him and not the Tourney. How many people knew of this visit? Could it be that someone did not approve of closer links with your organisation in Tevinter?”

“I was directed to do some research of materials here at the Sun Dome. The only people that I’m aware of that would know for certain I was doing so would be the one who sent me, Magister Pavus, and the man of whom we both know, the Pontifex, of which I had a handwritten introduction to.” He finished, finding enough energy to add an edge of pomp to his tone.

“Very well,” Ellas gave a short incline of his head. “I think that is all for now.”

He left the cell and Livia relocked the door.

“I’ll be arranging for some small comforts to be delivered for the mage to use. There is no reason why we can’t be civilised in his treatment.”

“After what he did?”

“You seem convinced of his guilt. I seem to recall that you must have been one of the first people on the scene, so what do you remember?”

“I was with Prince Ferdinand when we heard a shout from the guards in the corridor. He sent me to investigate and I saw what had been done to the Qunari. I could sense a strong residual magic from my training as a Templar.”

“Yes, I was told you were formerly a Templar. I guess you feel the Inquisitor should not have disbanded your order.”

“No, the leadership had become corrupt. I was expelled from the order for disagreeing with them shortly after the events at the Conclave. We needed a fresh start but Divine Victoria seemed only willing to restore the Seekers, yet it is they who caused the split from the Chantry. If they had done their job properly in the past then many of the abuses which the mages complained about would have been investigated and those responsible dealt with. The Circles have served us well these last 800 years and we just needed to get back to the principles on which they were originally established.”

Ellas tried not to smile as he detected the rhetoric of Grand Enchanter Vivienne behind these sentiments.

“So getting back to the crime scene. Who was the first person to suggest the use of blood magic?”

“That was me. I had seen similar carnage after its use up in the Anderfels. It follows on the use of blood slave to control an individual or group of individuals.”

“How closely did you inspect them?”

“I’ll admit I only gave a cursory inspection as our attention was directed to the location of the mage and it seemed wise to subdue him as quickly as possible.”

“So how did he appear to you? Was he fatigued? Did he or his servant show signs of having been used in a blood ritual?”

“No but a blood mage can use the residual life-force of his victims to heal himself. Grand Enchanter Vivienne supported my view that blood magic was used.”

“You did not entertain the possibility of some other spell being employed?”

Livia shrugged. “It seemed the obvious explanation. In any case the amount of magic that would have been necessary to subdue the Qunari would have been considerable. Even working together with another mage it would likely require some boost of their natural ability, either with lyrium or with blood. I sensed no lyrium on the mage when he visited Prince Ferdinand earlier in the evening and there were no vials on him when I searched him either.”

“He could have tossed them away but I take your point.” He felt it expedient not to press Livia too closely on the matter or she might start questioning how he knew so much about blood magic. “So I take it you have the mage’s possessions that were on his person when you arrested him; may I see them?”

“Of course.”

Livia took a casket from a shelf and placed it on the table, unlocking it for him. Ellas opened the lid and started to lay the contents on the table. Mostly they were just small personal items; a comb, a small picture of a woman in Tevinter garb but there was also a black pouch and when Ellas emptied its contents, he momentarily froze. It was an amulet depicting a three headed golden dragon in front of a black sun. He had seen such an item a year previously, taken from an assistant to a Magister whom he had killed. The man had ordered massacre of Dalish mothers and the kidnapping of their children to use in his experiments. Ellas had sworn Mien’harel on anyone associated with him but he had believed, or at least hoped, that all had been killed at the time. Now this symbol was in the possession of Lord Scribionanus.

The Void take him, he thought, if this man had anything to do with his former enemy.

“Did you ask him about this?” He held up the amulet to Livia.

She shook her head. “It is just some symbol of Tevinter. The three headed dragon is popular iconography up there.”

“Not this one,” Ellas said emphatically, trying to contain his emotion. “Open the door again.”

Livia complied with his order and he raced into the cell, held up the amulet, glared at Lucius and said with a forceful intensity.

“What has this to do with you?”

Lucius’ eyes widen at Ellas’ sudden intensity, unfolding his arms and raising his hands up, denying. “Magister Pavus gave it to me to help identify the latest flavor of malcontents.” He relaxed his arms. “That I had it promptly left my mind during my arrest.”

Ellas calmed a little. “So they are your enemies too?” He started to wonder if this cult, for that is what they had assumed it must be, could be connected with the events he was investigating. It was certainly their way of operating, to cause suspicion and conflict between two groups already known to be antagonistic in order to focus attention away from their own activities. “Very well. I’ll leave you in peace for now.”

He re-exited the cell. “This amulet may be significant,” he informed Livia, “so I shall hold on to it for now.” He thought for a moment. “How long have you been in the city?”

“Over a month now. I’d been doing odd jobs from the Chanter Board until the Prince arrived, after which I’ve spent much of my time with him as my mentor.”

“So would you know if people have been going missing at all?”

“I don’t know about missing but there have been some odd murders in the slums.”

“Odd? You mean using magic?”

“Oh no, I doubt they have anything to do with this. The City Guard seemed to think it was more likely some falling out among thieves. Although, I know their friends objected to this idea.”

“So what was odd about them?”

“The corpses were mutilated in a peculiar way with the eyes, ears and tongue removed.”

“That certainly sounds like someone trying to make a point or a ritual of some sort. Okay, thank you for your time.”


------

riverdaleswhiteflash ; TheHeroOfFerelden ; phoray ; Space Cowboy

Ellas enquired of a servant where he might find Viuus Anaxas and was shown to his private quarters in the palace. The Pontifex was in his study, a large room that had its walls lined with bookcases and shelves of potions, whilst the Mortalitasi was sitting at a sturdy looking desk with a pile of parchment scrolls in front of him. On Ellas entering the room he rose to greet him and then indicated a chair.

“Please be seated. I trust your enquiries are going well.”

To one side of the desk lay a jewelled skull with an indication of pale light behind the eye sockets. Argos sniffed in its direction and then backed off growling fiercely, his hackles raised all along his back. Ellas placed a soothing hand on his head.

“It’s okay, lad, there is nothing to fear.” He glanced at the skull and then at Viuus. “At least I assume that is the case. Is it true there is a spirit trapped inside that skull?”

“In a manner of speaking; it is more spiritual energy than a fully functioning spirit.” Viuus assured him. “However, it is safely contained.”

“Rather as your guest is in the Sun Dome, I presume.”

“Not really. My guest is imprisoned against his will.”

“And the spirit is not? You called it out of the Fade and have bound it to that object. Did it give its consent?”

“It would not have come if it did not consider the skull a fitting vessel," Viuus looked irritated at the criticism, "but enough of discussing our holy and ancient art of which you are not an initiate. I assume you have further questions.”

“Indeed,” Ellas seated himself in the chair and Argos sat defensively beside him, gazing intently in guarded fashion at the skull for the rest of their visit. “I am fairly confident that your guest is not in fact guilty of the crime, although it is rather harder for me to offer proof of this that will convince others. However, a colleague of mine is working on something that may help. Still, my investigations and discussions with your guest have only raised more questions in my mind, specifically about the motive behind the crime.”

“Somebody wanted them dead.”

“Ah yes, but you were the first to suggest something more to the enterprise than mere hatred of the Qunari. One of the aspects that seems to exonerate your guest is that it has become apparent to me this was not a crime carried out on the spur of the moment by someone who had not even been aware the Qunari would be present until the Opening Ceremony. There is evidence of premeditation in arranging for the deed to be carried out and then there is also your suggestion that someone may have been trying to frame you. Thus the desire to murder the Qunari may not even have been the main driver of the action but rather it presented itself as an opportunity to remove you from the scene.”

“And you will also recall I suggested the prime motivator behind such a scheme.”

Ellas shook his head and smiled wryly. “I have already interviewed Grand Enchanter Vivienne and whilst it is clear there is no love lost between you, I doubt her involvement or that of her followers within the Sun Dome. So I have been asking myself, who else might want you out of the way, a rival within your own organisation perhaps? Who would be your likely successor for example?”

“Within the organisation as a whole there would likely be a vote on the matter with no specific individual guaranteed to even be nominated. As for my status in Cumberland, naturally that comes from my connection to the Duke and it would be for him to nominate my successor as his adviser on matters arcane and the rites of the Mortalitasi in particular.”

“So I suppose the most likely candidate would be his son, Tylus.”

“He is somewhat young to be taking on such a responsibility at present but my brother would certainly listen to his opinion on anyone recommended to him.”

“I see. Okay, that would seem to rule out a wish to usurp your position out of personal ambition, which leaves me with this.”

Ellas removed the Tevinter amulet from his pouch and held it up. He noticed a look of recognition in Anaxas’ reaction to seeing it.

“Not the first time you have seen it I would guess. I assume that Lord Scribonianus showed it to you when he gave you his letter of introduction from Magister Pavus. Neither you nor your guest seem willing to divulge exactly what his research is about but this amulet means I must insist and I get the sense that you may actually know more about the exact nature of it than he does. Now I will confess something to you. This is not the first time I have seen an item of this nature. I have come into conflict previously with members of this cult, for that is what I assume it to be. I swore a blood oath against them, so if you are not in league with them, what do you know?”

Viuus looked distinctly uncomfortable as though undergoing some internal conflict. Eventually he appeared to have resolved it.

“I would ask your discretion in sharing my information with anyone outside your own circle. If Magister Pavus’ suspicions are correct then it could be very damaging for my order and since you have spoken with the Grand Enchanter, then you know how much she would like to undermine us.”

“I can be discrete provided my hand is not forced.”

“Very well,” Anaxas took a deep breath and began. “Magister Pavus was aware of the events that you were involved in via his friends from the former Inquisition. Comte Lavellan also encountered a group of them aiding slavers operating on the eastern border of Tevinter. Magister Pavus had long suspected that the Venatori didn’t just emerge out of nowhere when Corypheus appeared on the scene. He felt there was a possibility that some of their supporters had come from old dragon cults that have continued to exist behind the scenes in old Altus families. His ally Magister Talani was instrumental in defeating the leader of such a cult on Par Vollen shortly before the Conclave in the south. However, it is not clear what became of his followers and there were suspected to be other cults independent of this one. This led Magister Pavus to start searching the archives for information on these cults and there seemed evidence of one particularly enduring cult of devotees to the Old God Lusacan. However, the war limited his research as even in antiquity the faith had its greatest number of adherents in the south where the worship originally arose among the Neromenians, but all the coastal cities are embroiled in the conflict at present. There were clues, though, that possibly devotees had fled further during Hessarian’s purges and settled in the land immediately to the south of Tevinter.”

“In other words, Nevarra,” said Ellas. “What makes him think this current cult is descended from them?”

“The archives speak of the three headed dragon and the black sun as being sacred symbols, the latter being a direct reference to their contempt for the Maker and devotion to the Lord of Darkness, Lusacan. The three headed dragon was originally the symbol of the kingdom of Neromenian that was later adopted by the Imperium.”

“Does this cult have a name?”

“Their ancient name was Sol Tenebris, which translates as the Dark Sun, and their moto is ‘Donec Omnis Nox’, ‘Until Night Covers All.’”

Ellas felt a cold shiver run up his spine. “That doesn’t bode well.”

“No indeed. Nor is it apparent how they intend to achieve their aim, which is why the Magister wanted us to research the archives in the Sun Dome to see if we could get any insights, particularly in view of this renewed activity on their part.”

“If they are behind the murders then that suggests he might have been on the right track in looking to Nevarra for answers.”

“Exactly,” agreed Viuus. “I have to admit that it does now seem rather more than a coincidence that all this occurred at the same time as Lord Scribonianus’ visit.”

“How many people knew about this from your end?”

“Many people knew that he was coming to see me, though not the purpose of his visit.”

“Did they know of his connection to the Magister?”

“I may have mentioned it to a few and others may have overheard our conversations.”

“Servants you mean?” Ellas raised his eyebrows. He stared at the table. “I assume you had correspondence with the Magister before the visit and that is how he informed you of his findings. So it would have been possible to search your papers whilst ostensibly cleaning your room, for example?”

“That is true.”

Ellas considered the matter. “Then I would ask for the same discretion from this point on as you have asked of me. Do not discuss our conversation with anyone else, not even your brother. For the present I think it best that they think their ploy to frame you has succeeded so you will need to stay under house arrest as though still under suspicion. Do not attempt to leave, even to visit the Sun Dome. Have no fear though, I will hunt them down.”

As he entered, Roshek was asking Jasce, “Tell me, my lord, do you spar? I could use a warm-up before I enter the actual event.”

Jasce gave a satisfied smile. “So, Edrick passed on my message. I’m no lord but I appreciate the compliment and would be only too happy to help. I believe you are not scheduled in the arena until tomorrow, so how about I return with you to the Dragon’s Den this evening?”

After arrangements had been made, Oerik asked Durk, “Did you learn anything useful in your investigation?”

“You might say that. I’m not sure where it will lead.” He explained the findings at the Sun Dome as best he could. He looked around, “Where is Liha?”

Oerik pointed towards the Arena. “Down there. Her turn is coming up.”

Durk watched her fight. This event seemed awfully similar to the Provings. The Deshyrs must feel at home. Liha’s first opponent was announced as a warrior from Nevarra. Liha, with sword and shield, faced off against the Nevarran, who wielded what looked like twin daggers. She won handily, not at all phased by the human warrior’s size or speed, The fellow was on the ground within a few minutes, thanks to a well timed shield bash.

Roshek seemed comfortable speaking to the Human lord and Jasce as equals, to Durk’s surprise. Perhaps he had to with Liha down in the ring. He was just thankful he wasn’t asked to be a go-between.

Liha’s next opponent was another sword and shield warrior, most notably, she was from Kal Sharok. All the dwarves, including Durk, leaned forward to see how Liha would fare against one of their rivals. Not that it made much difference to Durk, a dwarf was a dwarf, as far as he was concerned. Still, the Kal Sharok contingent appeared to be even more obnoxiously arrogant that the Orzammar Deshyrs.

This fight was more intense. The fighters were quite evenly matched, with neither giving ground. Practice sword met shield more often than the opponent’s body, and force with the shield was countered skillfully by each opponent. Finally, it appeared like Liha was losing, perhaps tiring. She held her shield up, on one knee as the Kal Sharok warrior beat on it. She was just waiting for a chance, however as one frustrated swing by the Kal Sharok dwarf, left herself exposed to Liha’s weapon. She wasted no time in hooking her foot around her opponent, and shoving the other warrior backwards, winning the duel.


Ellas heard cheers from within the box as he reached the door. He had noticed the dwarves fighting in the arena on his way in and realised that meant an early confrontation between the two factions. Clearly on this occasion the Orzammar dwarf had been successful. Ellas slipped through the door and quietly sat himself between Oswyn and Jasce.

“I trust your morning has been enlightening,” said Oswyn, nodding his head towards Durk as his reason for the assumption.

“I’d say troubling more than anything.” He showed Oswyn and Jasce the amulet and raised his eyebrows. “Look familiar?”

“Where did you get that?” Oswyn said sharply.

“The Tevinter mage brought it south as a means of identifying a cult that seems on the rise in his country but may be based in Nevarra. Apparently the leader of the Lucerni wanted to find out more about them and that is why Lord Scribonianus is here.”

“So he’s one of the good guys?” Jasce said incredulously.

“Well, I wouldn’t go that far,” Ellas responded dryly. “However, I’m pretty confident he is not guilty of the murders. The evidence is pointing in a very disturbing direction though. I’ll make a full written report when I get back to camp so you can evaluate and draw you own conclusions but I think the likelihood this cult is involved puts a whole different slant on the affair.”

“Yes, that is troubling. So you have suspects?”

“One in particular that definitely points to an inside job.”

“Lord Aehrenthal suspected as much.”

“I wonder if he may even have guessed the identity of the culprit and that is why he wanted to shift responsibility to someone else.”

“I said as much didn’t I?” said Jasce.

“That’s true,” agreed Ellas. “However, we know how this cult likes to operate. They sow the seeds of suspicion between two groups known for their hostility towards one another and then use that as a cover for their own activities.”

“So the murder of the Qunari was just a feint?” Oswyn said doubtfully.

“Oh I don’t doubt the murders were part of their agenda but they were a means to an end as well as a desired outcome. If that is the case then I think I should do some more digging before we report back to Lord Aehrenthal or risk falling for their deception and aiming for the wrong target.”

“I see.” Oswyn nodded. “Okay, your instincts were right the last time we dealt with them so I’ll trust to them again now.”

“Thank you.” Ellas felt relieved and then glanced around the box. “Where is Burren, I thought he’d be here?”

Jasce grinned. “He wanted a vantage point closer to the action where he could get a better view of the muscles on display. Plus that is where Edrick is.”

Ellas wondered if Burren had also wanted to avoid being in the presence of the deshyrs. He hadn’t had much of a chance of discussing Burren’s situation with regard to them.

“I’ll go find him then,” he said casually and then more formally, “if that is okay with you, my lord.”

“Of course,” Oswyn chuckled, clearly amused by Ellas showing an unprecedented degree of respect towards him. “I’ll await your report with interest.”

As Ellas was about to leave the box, he noticed Durk and caught his attention, inclining his head towards the door and gesturing that he should join him.

Durk nodded, and looked to Oerik who nodded back, giving him permission to leave.

Ellas led him to a secluded alcove and lowered his voice.

“I didn’t want to ask you in front of the deshyrs in case you felt obliged to agree to my request. There is more to this than the murders of the Qunari. I have reason to believe the group behind the assassination of the Qunari are the Dark Sun, a cult dedicated to the Old God Lusacan, the god of shadows and darkness. However, the signs are that the Qunari haven’t been their only victims. When I was in the Sun Dome, the Templar guarding the Tevinter mage told me there had been other strange murders in recent weeks among the residents of the poorer areas. The City Guards put them down to a fall out among thieves but Livia says their friends insisted they were honest workers. The bodies had also been mutilated which could suggest a ritualistic element to them. I called in on the alienage on my way here and the Hahren was wary of saying too much but when I asked her what she was afraid of she said, ‘banal’ras’. That’s elven for shadows. Among the Dalish, those who follow the Vir Banal’ras are assassins dedicated to vengeance against those who have harmed their clan. I think she was trying to hint something without being explicit about it because she is afraid of reprisals.”

Durk frowned and crossed his arms. “You think these killings are some sort of reprisal?”
“I need someone who is street wise to do some asking around in the human slums. If I do so, people may not be so willing to talk as word seems to have got around that an elf has been put in charge of the investigation. It could also alert this group to the fact that I’m on to them and they’ll cover their tracks before I can find out anything useful. However, a dwarf mercenary asking around for news wouldn’t raise so much suspicion. Even so, if these people are as active in the city as my enquiries have suggested, they might still object to your interest and that could place you in danger, so I’ll quite understand if you don’t want to involve yourself further.”

“Hmm, I’d be happy to help. I’ve got people who can discreetly watch my back, so no worries there.” Durk replied.

“That’s great, thank you. If you do discover anything then we can meet up discreetly here, unless you think it is urgent, in which case send a message via Edrick. I think he is going to be a regular visitor to our camp so it wouldn’t raise suspicions. I leave you now as I need to find a friend of mine and then get back to camp.”

With that he headed off downstairs to look for Burren.

The wagons were parked in a U shape, with a simple wooden stage constructed between capable of holding three people at a time. Considering Dune’s size, the twins’ need for space, and Selenia’s fire show, distance from surrounding wood was more important. With that in mind, the space between the wagons was mostly just dirt with patches of stubborn greenery here and there.

Chests, some open, were near the stage, ready to be tucked up when it came time to begin their work. Dune was pinning up one side of the decorative banner meant to catch the eye behind their simple stage.

“You’ve been acting on edge since that little after party.” Selenia commented quietly from her seat on the edge of the stage. The redhead rocked her stockinged legs tucked in their booted heels forward and back before doing a little hop off the stage.

“Not so.” Sabina gently replied, sweeping the stage at the other end from where Dune and Salenia were.

“Yes, so.” Salenia replied glibly. she took the few steps up, coming to Sabina’s side. She grasped the broom Sabina was using, stopping her from the action.

“You’re sweeping a clean stage.” Salenia stated, giving Sabina a concerned look.

Salenia leaned in. “You told me you were held for questioning, but it’s more than that, isn’t it?”

Sabina’s visage changed smoothly to one of utter calm. “You’re correct.”

Salenia’s brows raised, surprised. Sabina smiled, and pulled the broom out of Salenia’s grasp, dancing past her and toward Dune. “The stage is quite tidy.”

Salenia released a harsh annoyed breath and took one step forward. Sabina tucked the broom away, and turned to meet an onslaught of Selenia’s questions. Only to see that Dune had gained Salenia’s attention with swift movements of his hands.

Sabina came closer, looking on curiously. She’d picked up a few signs, but his hands were moving too quickly.

“Interesting.” Salenia replied when Dune had finished.

Sabina shifted her gaze to Salenia. “What’s interesting?”

“Do you know where that dress is that our grand troupe master wanted me to wear?” Salenia asked, as she took the steps back down and walked towards the chests.

Dune followed. He dropped off the side of the stage, going beyond Salenia and the chest, almost to the street, before turning back toward the stage.

Sabina tilted her head quizzically at Dune doing as he did before responding. “The one covered in feathers that you hate?”

“Oh, I don’t know. Maybe I should take a look at it again, give it a second chance.” Salenia began unbuckling the clasps of the trunk deep enough that it reached her mid thigh.

Sabina raised one brow. Her tone was unbelieving. “You told Dimitri you’d literally burn it before ever wearing it.”

Throwing the trunk open, Salenia reached in--- only to suddenly step to the side, reaching, to grab something behind it. Movement as someone darted away from behind the trunk. Dune took two large strides, blocking her, and grasping the creatures shoulders. The creature began to cry out, twisting back and forth to be free of the giant man’s grasp, as Sabina joined them on the clearing before the stage. Upon closer inspection, she determined it was a human female. Half her brown hair was free of it’s clasp, her simple dress heavily wrinkled and somewhat dirty from her time on the ground behind the trunk. She sank her teeth into Dune’s left hand.

Salenia slapped the girl up the back of her head, knocking her bite loose.

The waif kicked her legs. “Let me go! I’ve done nothing to you folks!”

“Except leave teeth marks on Dune here.” Salenia griped.

“Salenia, seriously. She’s not done any harm. She’s obviously terrified. Best we let her move on before we draw a crowd.” Sabina interjected gently.

“Little scamp is just upset we got her before she could nick something.” Salenia added darkly. “She’d have been successful if we hadn’t caught her.”

“Dune,” Sabina said, placing one of her hands on the back of his bitten hand. But it wasn’t until Salenia resentfully signed her agreement that the giant of man released her.

The woman looked out at the bustling entertainment district for a few frozen moments. She collapsed to her knees and a choked sob escaped her. Sabina moved towards the pitiful girl and the closer passerby glanced and ignored the scene as they continued on.

“Look at that, new lease on life and she didn’t manage one step.” Salenia remarked, sardonically.

Sabina didn’t respond and knelt down beside the crying young woman. She took one of the waif’s loose hands and softly stroked it while the young woman cried. Dune towered over them both and Salenia looked on, irritated but increasingly more curious. The girls tears began to slow.

“Allow me to help.” Sabina urged, compassion evident

“I…” The girl start, her voice cracking. She attempted to clear her throat and used her wrist to wipe her mouth.

“Don’t know what to do,” She began again. “It was so awful.” She took a deep breath, that caught briefly. A second attempt was more successful. The girl was more calm but appeared just as miserable as she stared at her own thoughts

“I’ve not seen such even when Sally down the way was giving birth... never did stop bleeding. Seemed a bucket then but this-” Tears squeezed out the corners of her eyes and trailed down the clean path her tears had carved on her dusty skin.

Her words came out raspy, “You couldn’t even tell they were Qunari, not really.”

Sabina stopped petting her hand, frozen. She saw Salenia come in closer.

“What was that?” Salenia asked.

Sabina resumed her calm stroking gesture. “What shall I call you?”

The young woman, exhausted, looked at Sabina a bit numbly. Then replied, “Emmeline.”

“Emmeline. How sweet. Let’s get you freshened up some. Maybe some tea, wedge of cheese. In return, you will tell me all about what it is you’ve seen.”

Emmeline began to fuss. Her eyes went wide, dismayed, as an edge of fear came to her words. “No no, whoever did that to them, they may get me. ”

“We would stop them if they tried.” Sabina nodded up to Dune. “I know we are new to you, but we are quite resourceful. You will not be found if we do not wish it.”

Emmeline slumped, then nodded. “If you would rise with me, we’ll set to it.” Sabina guided her with gentle words. Standing, she helped Emmeline up. The girl stood a few inches taller than herself, yet may as well have been a small child as Sabina led her to the wagon that keeps some of their dry goods. The young lady set to the wedge of cheese moderately well as the fear wore off.

Salenia comes up beside her as Emmeline is sitting, working on a large bite of cheese.

“She must have been terrified and without sleep since the attack.” Sabina said to Salenia.”Still kept her wits enough to say out of sight, though.”

“Another waif for Dimitri. He does seem to be a beacon for them.”

“It was certainly to our benefit. ” Sabina stated serenely.

Salenia snorted followed by a few moments of silence. There was a muffled thunk as Dune closed the trunk.

“Don’t think I’ve dropped the conversation, Sabby.”

“I would be dismayed to hear otherwise, Salenia.”

Part 1

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“So you’ll be heading out with her after you do your part?” Sabina asked. She patted, out of habit, for the hilt of her short swords, then remembered. She had tucked them away from sight in one of the carts. The guards on duty at the entrance to the compound would ask her to surrender them otherwise.

“Yes,” Selenia grumbled, “don’t like we’ll have to charge less for the evening show. Only fire makes the silver flow.”

They both stopped speaking when they heard a firm thump from the stage.

“Nekaaal, you threw me too far!” Mekal said, rubbing his shoulder.

“Sorry,” Nekal replied, chagrined. “We don’t have as much space; I’m not used to being so neighborly. Like we’re a shelf of books, that.”

“Well, watch you don’t tear my pages then.” Mekal said, before returning back to the business of preparing.

Sabina looked back at Selenia. “They’ll make do with a torch.”

Selenia frowned. “They can’t control it like I can.”

Sabina smiled magnanimously. “Of course; you’re important. Dimitri would have to work harder without you.”

Selenia cracked a smile, mollified. “That’s not the real problem anyway. You sure getting mixed up in it won’t bring you under that pillock’s nose?” She rubbed her hands together, a bit of smoke started escaping them. Her voice was aggressive. “If I ever see him, I’d burn the smirk off his face.”

Sabina grabbed her pressed hands and brought them up to blow on them. She chided her with a look, one brow raised. “As far as I understand it, he’s locked up at the Sun Dome.” She dropped Selenia’s hands. “Either way, it must be done.” She finished.

“Just some oxman.” Salenia quipped, no love for them inherent in the tone.

“If I truly believed in differences,” Sabina replied, with a bit of wistfulness as she gazed away. Her voice was quiet. “I wouldn’t be where I am now.”

Selenia didn’t reply for several seconds, then sighed. “Get on then, Sabby. Good luck.”

“Thanks. You too.”

Sabina entered the main path, turning right. It’d be a fair walk to the Bann’s camp through this crowd.

Colab with riverdaleswhiteflash

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Sabina approached the upcoming tented city from the path only to catch sight of a qunari in the distance. With both a bit of time on her hands and some curiosity, she came closer and saw that the qunari was flanked by two guards. Then she recognized him; Issala. Changing direction even more, she walked in their direction. The guards had picked up on her as soon as she’d really changed direction. Their cautious gaze followed her closely. She stopped a bit short of comfortable speaking distance.

“What a pleasure seeing you once more, Isalla.” She began, making it clear to the guards that they knew each other. ”I hadn’t expected to encounter you again considering the crowds.”

Issala looked up in confusion for a second, then motioned to his guards not to interfere. “Oh. I remember you. Sabina, right? Have the chevaliers given you any further trouble?”

She closed the distance and smiled charmingly. “They have not. In my favor, I have not given them opportunity to.” Issala nodded approvingly.

She took note of what Issala had gathered so far. “I see you are gathering herbs. Perhaps I could offer a bit of my time to repay for your good deed?”

Issala had to think for a second. 'Do I want to let her risk being seen with me? I’m working on a murder investigation, and the murderers seem to be mages.' He took a quick look around, making sure to get a decent glance at the convenient hiding spots nearby, but saw nobody. 'Or maybe she’s in on the plot? But if she is, she’s already seen which herbs I’m gathering, and it’s not like she’d succeed at assassinating me between my own skills and the armored guards.'

“Of course,” Issala replies, trying not to show on his face that he had considered refusing.

“If I could have an example of what I am looking for?”

'Wait, has she not seen which herbs I’m gathering? Is she spying on me?' But Issala couldn’t think how to say “no” without admitting that he was suspicious. “Of course.” He held the basket out to her.

“Thank you.” Inspecting it closely, she set to.

She had some time to return a favor, the plans set for the late evening as they had been. Still, after some time looking and minor success at finding the herb, she decided to call off the hunt. She approached Issala once more.

“I’ve had some success. I hope this helps.” She said, gingerly placing them in his collection basket. She didn’t know how important or not it was for the herbs to be collected undamaged.

“It will. Thank you.” No matter how this turned out, he was glad for help gathering the herbs.

“The troupe is performing tonight. I could not spare more time for your herb gathering, but perhaps the troupe could share their efforts and offer some free entertainment at the very least?”

“I… uh, maybe? I’m going to need to concoct the potions these herbs are going into eventually. But perhaps that can wait until morning?”

“Excellent. If I could bother you a final time, I came this way to speak with the investigator assigned by Bann Sighard. Would you care to point me the way?”

Issala hesitated for a second. “I can lead you to the Dragon’s Peak Bannorn tent, yes.”

Sabina smiled. “How kind, a guide even.” They turned together to walk.

“Are the herbs medicinal?” She asked, the habit of making conversation so ingrained she no longer noticed. The guards followed closely behind. It was only just now that she realized they bore the sigil of the Bann.

“They are.” Issala thought for a second how much he wanted to tell her. “They’re meant as antidotes for… a poison I’m worried we might encounter.”

“For the combatants in the upcoming Tourney?” A trace of concern marked her brow as she thought of her own connection to one of the combatants. She pondered, and looked at Issala with a bit of a sideways glance. “I thought broken bones were the worst of their concerns.”

Sabina took a step closer to Issala. “Teth a, Issala.” She cleared her throat a bit. Such a harsh language.

“Itwa ashkost beres-taar shokra?” She cast a meaningful glance at the guards but otherwise maintained her speech, quiet and pleasant.

“Uh…” 'What?' “You… you speak Qunlat?”

“The Troupe travels all over the continent. I’ve picked enough up over the years.” Sabina replied serenely. “Still, the question stands. I will not stand by if there is a problem.”

Issala hesitated for a second before he replied, torn between his desire to avoid outright lying and his worry that she might be gathering information for the murderers he was hunting. 'But she has already worked out that I’m working for the same man the investigator is working for, so leaking that wouldn’t matter. She’s probably also going to figure out that I’m working on the investigation itself. But maybe I don’t want to let on that we’ve worked out how the spell works.'

'And maybe being a Tal-Vashoth has made me paranoid.'

“I don’t think this is going to come up in the tourney.” She had already guessed that much, and in retrospect maybe implying that wasn’t the wisest deflection. At this point, it’s either lie or come clean. Or both? “The investigator I’m taking you to see wants antidotes to the common poisons. He’s worried that the people he’s hunting, the people who murdered the Qunari delegation, might have poisons in addition to their magic, and he wants all the bases covered.”

Sabina smiled, sincerely relieved. “I’m glad to hear it’s not for you, at least.” She briefly thought on the waif’s description of what she’d seen. She knew little of poison, and certainly nothing that would make the amount of blood the poor girl had described.

They began to enter the outermost layer of the tent city. A powerful white stallion carried a slight figure through the throng of cheery tents far ahead.

Gazing at the path of the stallion, Issala changed the subject. “I think that’s Ellas. The investigator. ”

“Splendid.” Sabina replied, outwardly pleased. A tendril of nervousness did begin within, however. She’d been far too ruffled to make a true assessment of his character last time they’d met.

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