The Nevarran Palace (Open)

[stephan]

The capital city of Nevarra is also called Nevarra, and is located in the middle of the nation. It lays upon the shores of the Minanter River and its great structure can be seen from the far distance, where the Nevarran Palace stands on its largest hill, overlooking the land to the far horizon. The river provides a great amount of trade and shipping, all the way from the city Nessum to the land of Antiva, through the Free Marches. The whole city is filled with artistry, with statues of heroes that litter the streets. The city itself is divided in districts, providing places for only dwarves, elves and humans, all which is guarded by the city watch and the Nevarran knights.


Entering the Palace of Nevarra, one needs to step into the courtyard which is guarded by the royal guards at all time. Being allowed to go on, one can enter the main doors to the palace itself, one which leads into the grand hall where the iron throne can be seen in end of the room. The path the throne is open between the pillars that hold the roof up; the pillars and the floor itself are all decorated by patterns to match the rest of the room, one which shows clearly signs how great and wealthy the Pentaghast clan is. Most often the hall is full during the day, where the court gathers to hear the King speak, and where the new laws are proclaimed and where questions are asked about certain matters that concerns the wealth fare of the people and the land, where ambassadors are also welcome to come with suggestions and questions. The rest of the Palace holds many rooms, where the royalties live in the upper chambers and where the minor nobilities live in the lower areas, while the rooms to servants, chefs and guards are at in the lowest part of the palace.

[reihotd]

Edeline sat next to her King as they watched people in the throne room. This was a time of day that she enjoyed because she got to be next to Stephan. It seemed that she got to spend less and less time with her husband, but that was probably just in her head. He was a busy man and she understood this. Who was she to try and monopolize a Kings time. There was a lot going on these days, and it was obvious by the turn out that today was going to be an interesting one. Usually Lina sat on the throne and allowed Stephan to do his work. It was nice to be there just to understand what was going on, but she was not particularly great at politics. It always sounded like a whole bunch rabbling to her, but she sat intently and tried to make sense of all the nobles arguing their own opinion. It always seemed a little to selfish to her, but that’s why she was no politician.

As Edeline was just spacing out she saw a well-dressed man approach the king. He looked disgruntled and a little fluffy to her. It was pretty obvious that he was Orlesian, and had some choice words for the King. Lina sat up straight and got ready to hear some interesting banter about to happen.

”Enchante and Good day Your Highness. I am Arnaud from the land of Orlais. I have come here to speak of the decisive issue of the high taxes in your ruled over areas of Orlais. My people are becoming restless and concerned with the mages in the area. We should be able to use the money to defend ourselves and not for taxes, no? “ The man seemed very to the point and aggressive for an Orlesian. He did not speak in swimmingly slick tone or try to sugar coat anything. He just walked up to the King and expressed his distaste.

It was a bold move and it made Edeline a little uneasy. She knew Stephan, and he would not be happy with the blunt outright words of the Orlesian. She readied herself as she watched the man. He stood wearing ruffled blue and red clothing with plenty of jewels on him. In her mind it didn’t look like he had a problem paying taxes, but to her all the Orlesians looked plenty rich. He was older, but not quite grey. He wore his hair at his shoulders and had some well kept looking facial hair. Edeline did not find Orlesians attractive at all. Their snobby attitude was all the turn off she needed to steer clear from them. But this was all up to the King, and she awaited his response to the pompous man, as did the rest of the people whispering across the room.

[ari]

This was going to be boring, it always was but what else did she have to do with her day? Mother was still breathing and therefor she tried to control her daughter, thankfully this girl knew how to avoid that sort of issue. Too bad for her older brother, he was stuck with the woman until she finally decided to die. It was a rather morbid thought but it was the truth. Should the old woman die, her brother would be free of her and Ariadne would stand to gain much. She had her freedom as long as she didn’t make a spectacle of the Pentaghast name.

Her steps were light as she made her way towards the throne room. Her silver blue eyes looking brighter in the gloom, the crimson dress she wore made her alabaster skin look rosier and her hair a little darker. She was a looker and she knew it. More than once her beauty had allowed to her get her way. A guard had once threatened to report her for leaving the palace; she had promised him a kiss when she returned. He had bought it and had allowed her to leave; sadly he was dismissed that night for trying to tell lies of getting a kiss from the Grand Duchess.

She had been kind that day, she could have had him killed but had decided to show mercy. She was close to the throne room now, and spotted her sister in law as she walked through the door. Edeline was seated next to the largest chair that was meant for her brother. On his other side there was one that was special just for her. As of this day she was currently second in line for the throne, and she would remain in that position until her brother produced an heir. She settled herself, fixing her skirts before she lifted her gaze to watch the proceedings.

One after another they came to speak their peace, and frankly Ariadne thought it was nothing but nonsense. She knew how to handle such things but until it was her job to worry about it she wasn’t about to do more than necessary. The boredom was well hidden behind a mask that looked like she cared of their problems. The Orlesian man was enough to amuse her though. Hid demands were enough to cause a slight smile to twitch at her lips. It would be entertaining to see how her brother chose to handle it.

[jenna]

Jenna stood at strict attention just behind and to the right of the king, her hand never leaving the hilt of her sword. These bloody audiences always put her on edge, each minute leaving Stephen open to assassins and madmen and worse - draining his already limited energy. His illness always left him tired and weak, yet his station demanded more of him than any man should have to give. She simmered quietly throughout the audience, remaining still and impassive but alert. It was not her place to interfere in the political machinations of the nobility, only to protect her king.

Her eyes passed over the throne room slowly, constantly moving, catching the gaze of the guards she had stationed at every entrance and along the walls. Well trained and seasoned men all - she would have no less in the king's own guard. If some of them resented her youth or standing, they gave no sign of it, each of them chosen by her own hand to defend their king. If they shared muttered rumors about her relationship with the king, they did it discreetly, even the eldest and greatest of them holding a certain respect for both their commander and king.

So it was that she needed only to catch the eye of a pair of guards nearby to set them on alert as an Orlesian stormed up to the throne. He was very pointed, and Jenna tightened her rip on her sword. She had little enough love for the simpering and scheming that Orlesians usually preferred and this was quite honestly rather refreshing, but any confrontation had the potential to exhaust the king. All they needed was for him to faint in public with Orlais and the Tevinter Imperium honing their blades to either side. Weakness was something they could scarce afford.

But the king was clever. Cleverer than she by seas and oceans, were she to be truly honest. He could fix this with his brains she was sure, and only when he gave the order would she have the peacock escorted out. For all that she was the larger and stronger, she would trust in the king.

[stephan]

It was a warm day in the royal palace of Nevarra and as usual, the court had gathered to see and talk with the royalty and the nobility of the land. Upon the throne that stood in the very end of the room, sat Stephan, the new king of Nevarra and beside him sat his Ferelden wife Edeline. Stephan was dressed in his red and brown noble clothing and upon his head he wore a crown made of dragonbone, inherited from his father who had been King before him. It had been two years since Stephan and Edeline had married and still they remained as a loving couple, as a respected King and Queen of the land, but as of late there had been some issues between them and Stephan knew it was bothering his wife. With a look upon her as the grand master spoke the proclamations of the day, he smiled and gently touched her hand trying to reassure her that he was there for her and that he loved her, knowing that she also did not understand much of the royal business that went on. Although as his gaze ventured, it turned toward the captain of the Guard, Jenna who stood behind him to the right and as he looked at her he smiled even more brighter before his focus turned back on the crowd that was listening to what was being said. Stephan hoped Edeline had no suspicion on what was going on between him and his captain of the guard, but at least she knew he was a special man who desired so many sorts of fun, a man with so many demands.

As the grand master finished speaking the proclamations of the day, Stephan continued to stay focused on the matter at hand and he watched the attentive crowd that was waiting on what next would happen. It was now time for others to speak their mind and as Stephan and his wife waited, an Orlesian emissary stepped forth, kneeling in front of them as he had come to speak of matters not of his own country, but rather the matters which involved his people living on Nevarran land. The issue regarded the high taxes which Stephan had put up and because of the ever growing threat of the mages that was gathering at Andoral`s Reach. Hearing the Orlesian demanding more protection made Stephan a bit unwary, but he remained calm as he thought of what to speak in return. Then just as he where to answer, his sister Ariadne entered the throne room and she took her seat next to him, with a smile back at her he greeted her welcome, but then he noticed the expression on the face of his mother who stood not far away from them. She did not like that Ariadne was late, even though she was just the Grand Duchess. Stephan glared back at his mother, telling her to back off and he was not pleased to have her around as it felt she often hung over him, observing every action he made as if the way he ruled was not good enough.

Looking back at the Orlesian emissary while Stephan caressed the hand of his wife, he replied in a firm and a clever tone, which could be heard loudly throughout the hall. “Dear Arnaud of Orlais, the concerns of your people is well understood, but the money which the people give us is what gives our land the protection we need to keep it safe. I cannot lower the taxes, but I can try to do what is possible to protect the cities that feel threatened. Therefor I will speak with the Knight Commander and ask if he can provide any more Templars to increase the security, if anyone can handle Mages it would be them.” He said and gave a nod that he was finished speaking with the Orlesian, though just as the opportunity presented itself, another man stepped forth to speak his mind, a wealthy Nevarran who had been given the charge of presenting the annual Tourney Games some months from now. Carefully he began speaking, as he nervously moved forward, bowing his head in respect. “If I may speak, your Highness…” The bald man asked smiling slightly and then continued. “As you probably know the annual Tourney Games are approaching and the people are indeed very excited for what is to come, and I would like to take this opportunity to tell you we are on schedule and that everything is going as planned. However I would like this moment to speak with you concerning the security, and well, with the mages not being part of the Grand Tourney this year….perhaps we should figure another option to please the crowd?....Also have you decided who will fight as your champion? I apologize my King for all my questions, but they all need to be answered…” With that said, the wealthy Nevarran withdrew and awaited the King`s answer.

“I`m glad to hear the people are excited Lord Reiner, and you indeed ask many questions that needs my answer.” Stephan replied back to his old friend with a serious voice and leaned forward thinking about the past and what had happened to his father, after a sigh as he thought of the bad memories he continued. “I have not yet decided my Champion, nor have I fully decided whether I should attend or not this year, but when it comes to the security I have full confidence that Captain Jenna will take care of the matter and I believe you two should discuss this further in private, though should you need me I will gladly be there to discuss it. And you are right, with the Mages not being part this year, because of the recent events; we should figure a new solution. Does anyone here have any suggestions?” Stephan spoke out loudly, requesting the thoughts of the nobles to be heard as he leaned back at his chair, trying to relax as the bad memories rushed through his mind. He could hear the nobles whisper in the background between themselves and he could hear they were surprised about the news when the King had told them he maybe not attend this year.

[Maria Pentaghast]

Nevarra was just as beautiful as ever. The inhabitants of its capital city was gearing up for its annual tournament, this was the opportunity of a live time to prove that the soul warrior looms within one's self. And the flames of life burns strongly like a roaring flame inside their very hearts, of course the tournament made Maria's blood boil with her very body. The feel of battle was her aunt, while survival and victory was her uncle. Speaking of family, it was that time again to gather around the main throne room to discuss currents events and other political situations. It was also the time to talk to other nobles from Nevarra or from people that live from other kingdoms.

Maria stood to the right of the seat where her cousin Ariadne sat. Her mind was filled with different training sessions she had planned to do after the meeting was over, but she focused on her cousins and watched the scene unfold. It was understandable that the Orlesian noble was worried about the mages, however it was up to Stephan and Maria’s cousin once again chose a wise decision.

She stood wearing her full Dragon Huntress Hauberk, brown trousers and soft boots. She stood staring at her family while moving her eyes to look at the ones whom spoke in the throne room. Her eyesight caught the glimpse of Jenna who stood proudly beside Stephan; as usual her hand was on the hilt of her faithful friend. A respectful smirk crept up on Maria's face as she admired Jenna's determination, but turned her grin to her cousins, as she felt proud to be part of such a wonderful family.

Then the organiser of the annual tournament walked up and spoke about to Stephan about it, while folding her arms she carefully listened to the man's words. Of course the people were getting excited, then again so was Maria. It wasn't surprising that Stephan hadn't decided whether or not to appear at the tournament, but until the king needed her then she herself would show up at the annual tournament.

And as the King asked for suggestions involving the current situation, silence fell around the throne room. Maria watched the throne room like a hawk and hoped an idea would present itself to Stephan to make the tournament even better so that the people are entertained. However Maria had no idea and thus remained silent as she watched her family very closely.

[reihotd]

The throne room was now full of family and events were taking off fast. Her sister in law, Ariadne, had entered the room late, and so had Maria. It was nice to see everyone in front of a crowd. It made them look like a real well working family, even though Edeline knew of its ghosts. She, herself, had no qualms with anybody here, but she could not say the same of the others.

After the Orlesian man spoke, her husband answered with a very reasonable solution. Edeline was always proud of Stephan’s honor and the pious attitude he showed a crowd. He was indeed a kingly man, at least to the people. As he answered the emissary, Arnaud had a scowl on his face. It was obviously not the answer he came to receive, but it was what he was leaving with. He bowed to the King and made a quick turn, seemingly stomping as he left. To Edeline, the man looked like a child who was just told he could only have one dessert, not his AND his brothers. Lina was glad to see the man had enough sense to just leave, and not push away the generosity he had just received. These were tough times, and Edeline may have not understood politics well, but she understood struggle.

As she sat, her hand with Stephan’s, she reflected on how her life had changed. She looked at her new family, all in darker, rich colors, and herself and pale pinks and whites. Stephan allowed her to choose her wardrobe not only because bright colors looked wonderful with her silken blonde hair, but because it made a statement. Edeline chose to look happy and malleable at all times. She wanted to give a look of hope and peace to those who looked upon her. She wished that even in the harshest situations, someone would see her, feel a glimmer of fortune, and be able to continue on. After all that Edeline had lost, this was all she felt she could offer someone else.

As she was thinking all this she also was listening to a Nevarran present questions about the upcoming Tourney Games. He spoke of so much Edeline almost got lost. How the King kept all these things organized in his mind, she would never know, but hearing the two of the talk about a Champion pulled at her heartstrings. How she wished that her brothers were still alive so that they could come, fight, and enjoy the honor Nevarra bestowed upon a Champion. But those days were over and Edeline had to move on. She had been with her husband for two years and loved him very much, but she still had trouble accepting this as her one and only family. As she listened to her husband speak loudly across the crowd she heard it…Jenna…he was talking about his wonderful Captain of the Guard, that he increasingly made amorous eyes with, again. Lina wasn’t sure of their relationship, nor did she care, but a girl did get jealous from time to time. Lina was raised well and knew that a King would do what he wanted, and as a matter of fact, she was fond of Jenna. Jenna and Lina spent time together often due to Jenna’s duty to Stephan. Edeline had no qualms, but hearing the girls name over and over, and seeing her constantly, made Lina feel lonely.

Waiting for her husband to finish speaking, Lina held his hand tightly, her lacy sleeves rubbing his skin. She leaned close to him and whispered in his ear soft enough that only the two of them could hear. ”Dear Husband, are you sure we should not just get rid of the tourney this year. There is much turmoil in the lands lately.” Her voice was wary and her touch concerned. She was not stupid and understood that the people loved this event, but she worried for Stephan. He was not always his proper self, and the Tourney would be an event that could change him. Lina did not want to lose Stephan after everything else she was now missing in her life.

[ari]

She received a few looks for being late but Ariadne returned them with a vivid smile. She knew that being late would annoy her mother but she didn’t particularly care at this moment. A polite nod was given to her brother and to her sister in law. Her cousin was there as well causing another smile. It had been a while since she had seen Maria and they had been close as young girls. Her eyes looked cold as she watched the Orlesian make his plea. Stephan was a little kinder than she would have been in the same situation but then again he had always been a kinder soul than she. Had her father remained alive longer Ariadne would have been a sweeter girl, but death had made her a little bitter towards the world.

Her eyes lit up as the tourney was spoken of. She loved the games even though they had been the death of her father. Ariadne knew that Stephan would probably be a nervous wreck but she was prepared to handle it. At his mention of Jenna however Ariadne skillfully hid her true emotions. She wasn’t a fan of her brother’s champion. Frankly she thought the woman was a bore, and lacked a personality. She also hated how she coddled Stephan. The only one who should coddle her brother should be his wife, but Ariadne knew that it was never going to be in her best interest to say something so she kept her tongue in check.

Thoughts of the tourney made her realize that she needed to declare her champion before her brother the king. He would need to approve though he had never been cruel enough to deny his younger sister much. He had spoiled her much in the same way their father had. ”Brother Dear, I have chosen my Champion for the Tourney.” Although she should have used her brother’s given title Ariadne had been calling Stephan Brother Dear since her childhood and had found that the habit was difficult to break. ”I have chosen Torin of Highever from Ferelden and he shall also be taking residence here as my personal bodyguard.”

As a Grand Duchess Ariadne stood next in line to the throne, she needed someone to guard her from harm. Her brother had Jenna and now she had Torin. Things were going to get interesting but Ariadne didn’t know just how interesting things were about to get.

[jenna]

Clever Stephan. Nothing in Jenna's rigid posture changed, her expression still neutral, but as the Orlesian walked away she wanted to laugh. The man didn't look happy, but he could hardly complain. He'd gotten what he said he wanted, didn't he? Men should know by now never to cross wits with her king, it was a hopeless battle.

But no sooner did one man leave than another took his place. This time someone wanted to speak about the Grand Tourney, and Jenna flicked a glance at Stephan. He still had nightmares about the last one he attended, when his father had died, and she couldn't help being concerned. Better yet, the bloody games were a nightmare for security and she expected Stephan would want her as his champion - she couldn't protect him from the field, nor keep her men in order.

But Stephan wanted suggestions, and Jenna stepped forward to kneel at his feet. "If I may, sire, I suggest we speak of security privately with my men at the end of the audience, that our plans not be revealed. As to the removal of mages, perhaps I may be so bold as to suggest a show - perhaps fireaters or the like. Apologies for my boldness."

Jenna stepped back to her place as quickly as she'd moved from it. She could feel the disapproval radiating off of the Grand Duchess, little though that differed from their usual relationship. Ariadne was spoiled, that was the nicest way to say it, and Jenna was well aware the Grand Duchess didn't like her. Somehow, she just couldn't bring herself to care. The queen on the other hand... Edeline was a good woman, and if she ever learned of Stephan's true relationship with Jenna it would destroy her. Every time she felt the queen's gaze fall on her, her skin prickled with guilt. Not for the affair - she could never feel guilty for helping Stephan - but for the pain she knew it would cause Edeline. She was... a good woman.

[stephan]

Looking across the hall which was crowded by nobles and alike, Stephan waited in response on his question. Then as his gaze ventured across the people, he got eye on his cousin Maria who was standing next to his sister Ariadne, which was nice to see. It was not often he got to speak with Maria, mostly because he was always busy doing duties for the people and the land. Hopefully sometime soon he would get that chance and as he looked on her, he kindly smiled and nodded, appreciating that she had chosen to take part in the palace again.

The palace roamed with silence for a moment, but then as the nobles was discussing between themselves he felt the grip of his wife tightening around his hand more and as he turned to look at her she leaned in to whisper into his ear, telling him what she thought about the grand tourney. She felt there was no need for the Grand Tourney to be held this year, and even though Stephan wished that was true, he had to tell her the truth about the state of the country as he replied whispering. "As much I would like to leave the tourney out this year, I am afraid we cannot. This tourney is the way we will save our country from going bankrupt." He said firm and serious, thinking what would happen if his country could no longer sustain their population. It was a bothering thought, but Stephan was clever and he knew that if he could pull this tourney off, then his country would have money to survive for at least one more year.

Suddenly hearing his sister speak out loud from where she sat beside him, Stephan`s focus quickly turned to her as she proclaimed her champion for the tournament. It was surprising that she wanted to attend with a champion this year, but if she wanted it he would gladly approve. Just as she had spoken, the nobles within the hall got louder, whispering between themselves or standing in awe as they were shocked to hear the news. “A Ferelden Champion defending my sister`s honor, hmm interesting…” Stephan said as he touched his chin, thinking about it before continuing. “Well if that is whom you wish to fight as your champion this year I will accept it. Even though I doubt he`ll be able to defeat many of our nation`s best fighters, especially Jenna if she takes part. ” Stephan answered with a smile and then turned to look at the crowd as he leaned himself back into his chair, just as he remembered something he had forgotten to tell. “And oh, by the way sister, Prince Claudio Valisti is coming to Nevarra. I am arranging a marriage between you two.” He spoke firmly in a low voice only for his closest to hear, still keeping his gaze on the people as he waited for someone to come with a suggestion.

Then as Jenna stepped forth and kneeled before him, coming with a suggestion concerning security and what to replace mages this year, he listened intensely as he looked upon her with a kind smile, believing she was very beautiful in her well-tended armor. Seeing her step back to her position after she spoke, Stephan nodded in response and spoke out loud. “That is an excellent suggestion Captain Jenna, fire-eaters would be a great attraction and we should make a show out of it. And yes, concerning the security we will speak about it in private. Do you agree, Lord Reiner?” Stephan said and turned his focus to the one who was to arrange it all, hoping he would agree to this. “I do, sire.” Reiner answered and bowed before the king as he too stepped back into the crowd.

[Maria Pentaghast]

Maria stood like statue as she gazed over Ariadne and towards the meeting. To her this gathering wasn’t at all boring, far from it she was quite interested to learn what was happening about the tournament. It was the most important time of the year for Nevarra and a time where all of Thedas can gather around and enjoys the battles and contests, now it seems that things would be just as interesting as last year. Ariadne had already chosen her champion by the name of Torin of Highever, however Maria simply knew that her young cousin had a right to choose whomever she wished. But for Ariadne's sake Maria hoped he was a skilled fighter, it was not long before fresh information appeared in the meeting. As Stephan turned his gaze and nodded to the dragon huntress, Maria smiled back and nodded in return.

Indeed had been sometime since she had last talked to her cousin King Stephan. But she understood that he was king now and a king had many duties to perform, yet she seemed pleased about him accepting Ariadne's choice of champion. However she heard Stephan express his total confidence within Captain Jenna, Maria turned look at her childhood friend and simply nodded in look of mutual respect. As always Jenna spoke in pure confidence and even gave a pretty good idea about using fire-eaters.

Politics wasn’t exactly Maria's strong point. But at least she was there within the palace, everything was going according to plan and it seems that this year the grand tournament was getting better and better according to the warrior spirit which burned deep inside Maria's heart and soul. She even thought about trying to catch up with Stephan before the tournament but it seemed that Jenna beat her to the punch, oh well there was always time after.

Once more Maria stood silently and watched the events unfold. And with Jenna participating in the tournament it was only fair that Maria took her place and help to watch over her cousins as the tournament began. She was even going to speak up and offer her assitance to Jenna, however see that they were going to speak on the matter of security Maria trusted Jenna's abilities and decided to leave it and let Jenna sort out the details.

[reihotd]

Edeline understood Stephan’s reasoning, but she was still upset. Stephan was a good King, so money meant a lot, and so did keeping the citizens happy. Edeline would normally love to see the tourney, but not under these particular circumstances. But this was Stephan’s choice, and she respected that. And of course, knowing that Jenna would be his champion, made Lina feel safe and happy. It was heartwarming to see Stephan be able to be so close to someone. He rarely opened up to Lina, but she knew he was always open with Jenna. To some their relationship was unacceptable, but Lina wanted her husband to be happy. If Jenna could do that better than she could, so be it. Lina had had some thoughts about what more could be going on between Stephan and Jenna, but the thoughts were brief. Edeline know that jealousy was poison and assuming just made her ignorant.

Hearing Jenna’s suggestion about the mages made Lina smile. It was nice to know Jenna had been thinking the tourney preparations through. Sometimes it seemed like all the girl knew was fighting, and then she would impress everyone with a clever idea. People used to think the same of Lina when she was young. Growing up alongside her brothers made her into such a tomboy and kept her mind only on things like fighting and swords. But those who knew her today would never guess the person she was as a child. Jenna reminded Lina of her childhood. She wished they could be better friends, but Jenna always seemed so distant around her. She was respectful at all times, but so permanently formal. It seemed, sometimes, like she was avoiding getting close to Lina. Either way, Lina supposed Jenna was Stephan’s friend, and although they shared things as a married couple, maybe friends weren’t one of them.

Then directly in the middle of conversation, Lina heard Stephan tell Ariadne that she is to marry Claudio Valisti! Lina fought her urge to protest. She knew Ari was his sister, but to suddenly throw an arranged marriage at her seemed cruel. Lina would have been upset if she had not gotten the chance to choose her husband. Although her and Stephan’s marriage was technically arranged, Edeline was able to volunteer herself to be Stephan’s bride. This as a fortunate circumstance for everyone since, in her eyes, Lina’s younger sister Izot would not make much of a Queen. Edeline felt sorry for Ariadne. They had not known each other as well as she would have liked, but Lina still had a soft spot in her heart for Ari. Since Lina had lost her brothers, and wasn’t close to her sister, she felt that Ari was the closest thing to a sibling she was going to get. What concerned her more was the rumors she had heard about the Valistis. She had heard the most about the spoiled Queen Lucretia who was alleged to have a relationship of some sort with Gespard de Chalons of Orlais. The other rumor was that the Prince, himself, had intricate dealings with the Antivan Crows. The family seemed like a hot mess and Edeline severely wished that Ari not be thrust into such turmoil. The displeasure was all too obvious on her face as she gave a concerned look to her sister-in-law, to show her support. Unfortunately Lina know her place and could do nothing about the situation. It was going to be a slow passing period of time for Edeline, fill of much stress and grief. She hoped it would not take its toll on her too soon.

[ari]

Ariadne watched her brother waiting for his reply. “A Ferelden Champion defending my sister`s honor, hmm interesting…” Her brother sounded intrigued and it amused Ariadne greatly. “Well if that is whom you wish to fight as your champion this year I will accept it. Even though I doubt he`ll be able to defeat many of our nation`s best fighters, especially Jenna if she takes part. ” Oh course her brother would mention his pet. Ariadne kept a smile on her face but inside she felt like screaming. She truly hoped that Torin would face Jenna in something and completely destroy her. Killing her would make Ariadne most happy but if he could just beat her that would be sufficient enough.

Ariadne drew in a breath as her brother leaned back in his chair. His mouth opened and the words that came forth caused Ariadne to cough slightly. “And oh, by the way sister, Prince Claudio Valisti is coming to Nevarra. I am arranging a marriage between you two.” Her eyes went wide as she stared at him blankly. He was joking right? He had to be! Claudio Valisti of all people, he was a prince in nothing more than name. Ariadne knew that he was actually the current leader of the Crows, and her brother was going to make her marry him. This wouldn’t do.

A cold smile spread across her lips, Ariadne had a lovely idea. Thankfully it was one that would buy her some time. ”Brother Dear with your permission I would like to see that this Claudio Valisti is worth my hand.” She bobbed her head gently, showing proper submission to her older sibling and her King. This was something she would need to be delicate about. ”Arranging a marriage would mean that my cherished maiden head is at stake, and I do not believe that just any man should have it. I propose that if Prince Claudio truly wants my hand then he will be willing to face a challenge for it. I ask that you allow Torin of Highever to defend me in this. If the Antivan Prince can defeat my Champion in a duel then I will marry him without complaint. However should the Prince lose I would ask that you allow me to choose my husband as I see fit.”

Ariadne looked at her brother with innocence in her eyes. It truly was a fair bargain, but if Stephan chose to ignore her then she would need to do as her brother wished. Ariadne knew that if her brother refused her offer she would be forced into a marriage that would make her go insane. She would be widowed quickly as an assassin’s wife, or she would be killed herself. Stephan had to know that, but it seemed as if he cared not.