Orlesian Charm (Closed - Teagan)

[Marjolaine]

Past thread - 9:30DA, four months before the battle of Ostagar.

The Denerim markets were busy, busier than Marjolaine expected considering the merchandise they carried. So far there was little that interested her, even the so called Orlesian fashions being pushed by the peddlers made her scrunch up her nose in disgust. Marjolaine loosely felt the fabric of a light green dress that was obviously last year’s trend and when she was asked if she was interested by the merchant she raised a brow at him. “Only if I were looking for scraps of fabric.” Marjolaine smirked letting the fabric slip from her fingers before sauntering away to the next stand.

Ferelden summers was supposed to be the best time to visit, but Marjolaine found the summer heat only compounded the stench of dog that seemed to radiate from the country. She would manage though, she always did. Besides, it wasn’t as if she chose to come to Ferelden for recreational reasons. When the time came for her to make her move she would but in the meantime Marjolaine had time to kill. Shopping was normally something she enjoyed but she was quickly losing interest due to the lack of fashion sense Ferelden had.

With a flick of her wrist, a finely crafted hand held fan spread out within her grasp she slowly began to fan herself. Marjolaine was aware of the attention she drew; her stunning features always captured the interest of those around her. So far there was nothing that was worth her interest so she continued on through the market acting as if she were completely unaware of the glances sent her way.

[Teagan]

It had been several months, and already Teagan felt homesick. He missed the hills and valleys of the arling of Redcliffe, the halls of the castle, the sunrise on Lake Calenhad. But his brother had asked him to come to Denerim to negotiate with the king and queen a reduction of tariffs, as Recliffe relied on trade with Orlais as a major part of its economy, and high tariffs on Orlesian imports meant Orlais placed high tariffs on Ferelden goods, meaning less was bought. Basically, lower tariffs, Orlais will lower theirs, more furs and goods are sold. Everyone wins.

But now was not the time for business. Teagan had grown bored of dealing with the daily court life in the capital. Of course, he did as his brother wanted, and he did adore charming the wives and daughters of other noblemen. However, it was getting rather drool. Thankfully, he now had a goal.

It was to be Connor's birthday soon. Teagan, being the favorite uncle, felt that he truly needed to find something remarkable for the boy. Perhaps a dwarven toy? Or something from Tevinter.... Well, if it were in Ferelden at all, he could find it in the Denerim marketplace. As well as all manner of interesting people...

With the flick of a wrist, one immediately caught his eye as Teagan looked over some of the trinkets that had arrived recently from Kirkwall. They were rather interesting toys, but they were not the quality one would give to the son of an Arl. The woman, however, robbed him of any thoughts of toys. Dark hair, lightly tanned skin, eyes that were so brown they appeared nearly black. Elegant, not just in dress but in the way she walked, the way she wore her hair, the way she carried herself. She clearly wasn't Ferelden. Probably Orlesian, though that mattered little in his mind. She was simply a beautiful woman he had to meet.

Walking towards her, yet still appearing to be browsing the wares, he stopped just next to her, then asked. "Pardon me miss, I'm looking for a present to give my nephew back in Redcliffe. You look like a woman of taste, and I'd hate to give the boy a gift that was bland and boring. Perhaps you could help me pick one?"

[Marjolaine]

Marjolaine felt the presence of a man approach and though she caught a glimpse of him in her peripheral vision, it wasn’t until he spoke to her did she look upon his face. Slowly a smile formed on her perfect lips at the man whose charming voice pleasingly matched his features. Within seconds Marjolaine had surmised who he was. His noble attire and well groomed appearance along with his coloring and mention of Redcliff were dead giveaways. Before her stood one of the high nobles of Ferelden… Bann Teagan Guerrin, younger brother of the Arl of Redcliffe.

It was only prudent of her to know all those who had position of some power within the countries that she visited. Many times these nobles were either marks or clients and it was important to know with whom she was dealing with. Fortunately this nobleman in front of her was neither, which meant she could relax and not concern herself of which game to play.

“I am flattered that you would think so highly of me, even though we have not yet met.” Her sultry voice was sweet and melodic, her Orlesian accent giving hint that she was visitor to this country. Marjolaine turned and faced the man, her smile demure but welcoming. “Luckily for you I am well versed in the art of shopping, but first you must tell me about your nephew… and yourself if I may be so bold. It would help me in aiding you on your on your noble quest.” Marjolaine teased.

[Teagan]

Teagan grinned as the Orlesian woman replied favorably to his request. Her voice was sweet sounding, alluring in almost every way, and she responded well to his question. It would be nice to have company in the market regardless, and Maker knew he could use help finding the perfect gift. Teagan was never much of a shopper, he normally had a servant shop for him, but when it came to his nephew he had to choose himself. He didn't want to let the boy down.

"Then it seems my fortunes have turned, for I've been searching all day to no avail." Teagan mused as he looked at the toys, then looked up at the Orlesian mademoiselle and smiled again. "But where are my manners?! Bann Teagan Guerrin, at your service. And don't worry, I happen to prefer bold women." He winked as he bowed lightly, and as he stood upright once more and turned to the toys. "The boy is turning ten, a big age, and I want to get him something he can't get back in Redcliffe. A tall order for an Arl's son! Besides, as his favorite uncle, I'm basically obligated to make sure I get him all the fun items his parents won't. I'm thinking perhaps a sword of some kind, that would give his mother quite a shock!"

He chuckled lightly, the fire of mischief in his eye as he thought of Isolde's reaction to Teagan bringing Connor a sword. She was so... Orlesian... She'd rather have her son learn poetry and painting than the art of being a Ferelden Lord. And Teagan did enjoy messing with his sister in law far more than he should.

"As for knowing more about myself, I'm afraid I must first learn something about the beautiful company beside me. What is your name miss? And, if I may be so bold, what brings you to my beloved homeland? Business or pleasure?"

[Marjolaine]

Marjolaine continued to smile graciously at the nobleman. “It is a pleasure to meet you Bann Teagan. I am happy to hear that you are daring enough to appreciate a bold woman.” Marjolaine returned his wink, already enjoying the friendly banter.

Her eyes swept over the toys and wares the merchant had spread across his table. “Ten you say. Your nephew is about to learn of the world then. It is a big age. I guess it is a good thing you ran into me, nothing here would be suitable.” The merchant glared at her, obviously insulted by her remark. Marjolaine ignored him and started to stroll toward a cluster of merchants she had passed previously. These merchants sold blades as well as other items that would be carried more by a man than a child, but she had seen a particular item she thought would please the Bann.

“I am Marjolaine.” She curtsied slightly with her introduction before she continued on with her stroll. “And as for your boldness, I prefer it.” A playful grin took the place of her practiced smile. Marjolaine glanced over at Teagan, she could see the mischief in his eyes and it was refreshing to come across a noble who had spirit. “I am here in Ferelden on both accounts actually. Business has brought me, but I do like to enjoy myself wherever I venture to a new place.” It was uncharacteristic for her to be this truthful so far but there was no harm in doing so. Vague as she was, she maintained the mystery that always surrounded her.

Stopping in front of a merchant she ‘knew’ from other dealings in the past, in a different place and from a different time she smiled at him as if she would a stranger. The merchant Ignacio bowed slightly. “Ah good day pretty lady. What could I interest you with today?” Playing the role of helpful merchant his hands and arms spread outward showing his wares. Marjolaine tilted her head but looked past what was on the table. Behind Ignacio leaning against a chest was what she wanted to see.

“That there.” She pointed her perfectly manicured finger to the small sheathed sword. Ignacio smiled but his eyes held none of the warmth. “That is… not for sale. It is a special item.” He stated keeping up the pretense of formality a merchant would have with someone he would not have known.

“One that I am sure Bann Teagan here would appreciate.” Marjolaine was quick to interrupt. Not deterred in the least by Ignacio’s reluctance. “It is a rare and finely crafted piece that I am sure your nephew can benefit from.” Marjolaine mentioned to Teagan. “Here I will show you what I mean. It is an Orlesian blade so trust me on my judgement of it.” She grinned and held out her hand toward Ignacio, her brow raised.

Ignacio was no fool. Marjolaine was no Crow but her connections were wide spread, not to mention he knew what she capable of if only by rumor. He bowed slightly before he retrieved the sheathed blade and placed it in Marjolaine’s hand. Marjolaine flicked her wrist and the fan she held closed. She then handed it to Teagan to hold so she could display the sword to him. Unsheathing it, the metal glinted in the sunlight. It was not a long blade, a shortsword that would be easy for a petite person or young person to handle. The craftsmanship was obvious. Great detail was put into the piece.

“Beautiful is it not? But it is not what makes it special.” Marjolaine then positioned her fingers in a particular way on the hilt of the sword. A ‘click’ was faintly heard and the blade became two; a mirror image of the original blade was shown as Marjolaine held a blade in each hand. “These were specially crafted for a person who could wield two swords, yet still light enough to be a single blade. A neat little piece to have.” Marjolaine then handed the blades to Teagan while simultaneously retrieving her fan.

[Teagan]

He had to admit, he was liking this woman already, even if she was an Orlesian. "Marjolaine, then it is a pleasure to be in your company." He thought for a moment about what she said over her reasons for being here. They were vague, very, very vague, adding an air of mystery to this woman that intrigued Teagan quite a bit. What was this mystery woman doing here? Well, he intended to find out... Eventually.

As they walked through the market and she spoke with a merchant, he was amazed at the blade that was produced rather reluctantly by the merchant. Holding on to her fan, he watched as the woman deftly handled the blade, a beautiful piece in and of itself, and suddenly with a press of a button the sword became two, much to the fascination of the nobleman. Grabbing them while handing her back her fan, he studied the blades for a second. They had intricate designs carved into the metalwork, and the handle and guard were carved into amazing creatures. He put the blades together, and after working it a bit the blades became one once again, and he sheathed it into the scabbard. "Really, it is quite the remarkable piece. Almost as beautiful as the present company." He smiled and looked at the dark haired woman with a smirk on his face and a wink. "Serrah, how much for the blades? Surely we can come to a deal."

Price, for him, really wasn't an issue. The blades were perfect, and he had to have them. He turned to Marjolaine once more and said. "Certainly, an expert shopper such as yourself could help me get the best price."

[Marjolaine]

“Perhaps.” Marjolaine smirked at the Bann before directing her attention back to Ignacio who looked not very pleased about the situation. The bard had to be careful when negotiating with a man like Ignacio. They both worked in circles where enemies were easily made. Some enemies were not good to have, but Marjolaine held a great amount of influence.

Marjolaine tilted her head to the side as if she were in thought as she looked at the sword Teagan held then back to Ignacio. “How much?” Her lovely voice took on a more serious tone, as one would when discussing business.

Ignacio’s eyes narrowed at her. “I did mention they were not for sale.” His stated slowly.

Marjolaine said nothing at first. Instead she smiled a perfect smile. “You did. But that sword is not a common find. There were only a few commissioned, less than a dozen. I can only wonder how a merchant such as yourself obtain it.” It didn’t sound like a threat but Ignacio knew what Marjolaine was getting at.

“If I were to sell it then I’m sure it would be with discretion?” Ignacio raised his brow as his eyes hardened. He would get some coin for the sword, though he was sure it would not be amount he knew it was worth.

“Of course. Though a fair price would be expected.” Marjolaine continued to stare Ignacio down, while maintaining a pleasant façade. The game was to be short, especially with the audience they had.

“Thirty gold.”

“Ten.” Marjolaine countered.

“Twenty five.”

Marjolaine grinned. “Thirteen. And we leave before I decide to ask about other wares you may have.”

The silence from Ignacio was tense but he slowly nodded his head and addressed Bann Teagan. “Your… friend is very good at negotiating. Thirteen gold is your price.”

Marjolaine nodded to Ignacio and extended her hand to shake. In doing so she slipped him a few extra gold coins. It was for his silence in other matters and the Crow smiled knowingly. “Business was a pleasure. Now if you’ll excuse me…” Ignacio bowed and went to speak with another possible buyer.

Marjolaine gave Teagan a triumphant smile. “I hope you are happy.” Her eyes traveled up the man subtly yet suggestively. She found the Bann to be quite attractive, and from what she could read of him so far he was just the type she liked to keep company with.

[Teagan]

Teagan grinned as he heard the woman negotiate. Either she had a very silver tongue, or she had some connections that influenced the man to drop the price of the blades so severely. Perhaps a bit of both. As Teagan pulled out the coin to pay the man, he couldn't help but think in the back of his mind how he wouldn't mind to see if her tongue really was silver later...

As he put took the sword and walked with her, he smiled as he noticed her eyes wander. Well, his behaved no better, he had scanned her at least twice as she had spoken to the merchant, and he truly was happy with the price that she had gotten him. More than that, however, he was happy for the company.

"Aye, they're a fine blade, but I find the company far better than any blade. In fact, tonight I have to attend some function for.... Maker knows, one of the nobles of the Bannorn. Not sure who anymore. Either way, there will be a large feast, and I would be honored if you'd allow me to take you with me. In truth, I could think of no better companion than the beautiful orlesian mademoiselle who helped me find the perfect gift for Connor. What do you say?"

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

Later that evening, Teagan arrived at the inn Marjolaine was staying at and took her to the dinner in the Arl of Denerim's palace. It wasn't for the arl, it was for some lesser cousin in charge of something or other. Teagan's mind wasn't even on the event. Instead, it was on the beautiful orlesian who they seated next to him, at his request. Many an odd look were sent his way, even some whispers that the brothers must have Orlesian fever (seeing as how Eamon married Isolde). But regardless, Teagan didn't care, as he poured her her glass of wine before pouring one for himself, offering his glass towards her as a sign of cheers before taking a sip.

As the feast began to go into full swing, with minstrels playing on a platform in the corner and nobles mingling, Teagan looked around for a moment. It was actually not that bad of a party. He expected worse to be honest, but by Ferelden standards it wasn't bad. At least the taps were flowing. Leaning in, he spoke to Marjolaine. "Really, I'm glad you chose to come with me. If that fat woman over tried to set me up with her equally fat daughter one more time I may just run off and marry a tavern wench just to get them out of my hair..." he chuckled, pointing to the rather obese woman laughing as a small dog cat was perched on her oversized shoulder.

"So tell me, are parties in Orlais anything like this?"

[Marjolaine]

Marjolaine loved parties, for many reasons. But tonight it was more for the company than the party itself. Teagan was not like most uptight noblemen, and he wasn’t like the immature brats that felt entitled either. He was charming (sincerely so which was rare) and his sense of humor actually amused her.

“Noble parties are usually the same, regardless of the country. Fine drink, fine food, and nobles trying to push their offspring off on other nobles.” Marjolaine teased as she glanced over at the cow Teagan had mentioned. “You should teach her a lesson. How about you take me to the dance floor and give them a show?” She purred while leaning in closer, her dark eyes inviting.

Without waiting for an answer she gracefully stood and began walking to where the a few couples were swaying to the soft music. Right before reaching the dance floor Marjolaine turned and smiled seductively at the Bann. “You do dance, don’t you?”

[Teagan]

"Absolutely." Teagan grinned, answering both her questions as he took her hand in his and shifted out of his seat, pulling hers back as she stood up and leading her to the dance floor. Walking to the dance floor, gingerly holding her hand (as was custom with the dances of higher nobility) until they finally arrived. Spinning her into his arms, placing one hand on her waist while having the other in his hand, they began to dance as the music played.

Looking into her eyes, his warm smile grew lightly as the two twirled across the dance floor. What beautiful eyes he thought to himself. They were truly quite a sight. Dark brown, nearly as black as the long silken hair that tumbled down onto her shoulders. Everything about her was absolutely enrapturing. Her voice, her soft hands, the air of mystery she had around her... Though the last thought was something to be solved later. At that time, Teagan was far more interested in her company than her history.

After quickly scanning the room, he gave her a light, devilish smirk as his eyes focused on her once more. "Don't look now, but I think the other men here are starting to get jealous of me. Not every day the court here in Denerim is graced with someone such as yourself. It must have been a slightly darker day in Orlais when you chose to leave her borders to come here was it not? If I were Orlesian, the thought of a gem such as you falling into the hands of a Ferelden would drive me mad."

[Marjolaine]

Her body flowed effortlessly across the dance floor; graceful and light on her feet Marjolaine was the epitome of a dancer. All eyes were on her and the Bann, not that Marjolaine expected any different. Teagan was a sought after unmarried noble and her beauty set her apart from the normal stock of Ferelden nobles.

Teagan was well versed in dance, his noble title demanding as much but he actually had skill and Marjolaine enjoyed being guided by him. Her smile brightened as he adorned her with compliments. She had to admit that even though it was expected she found she rather liked them coming from him. His ruggedly handsome features were very different from the smooth and soft grooming of most Orlesian men, and Marjolaine found she rather liked the change.

His mischievous smiles lit up his eyes in the most alluring way and Marjolaine thought on how much she had enjoyed Teagan’s company so far. It was not often she felt her attention captured this long, at least for personal reasons and not for a specific purpose.

“That is very kind of you to say. But I have to wonder, what would you do if you had such a gem?” Marjolaine purred, her body suggestively moved against his. The music and dance allowed her such liberty without it bringing attention from others, except for Teagan who could not have ignored her touch. “I am very curious of how a Ferelden such as yourself would handle such a prize.” Marjolaine brought her lips mere inches from his.