Faith in a Fountain(Open)

[Cecille de Val Royeaux]

"What a beautiful day it is."

Deep within Val Royeaux there sat a large fountain that gently sprayed it's liquid as the busy people of the city scurried past it. Many of the city folk were immensely busy and were unable to sit and enjoy the view. Only a small group of the city folk were sitting around the fantastic view of the fountain. Amongst them was a quiet oddity compared to the surrounding commoners. A young woman sat on the edge of the fountain, observing the water as it splashed about. She had long brown hair that was tied into a single braid that rested on her shoulder in an elegantly. She had bright green eyes with soft pink lips, both of which rested solemnly on the fountain. Despite her expression, there was a carefree aura around her while she rested comfortably on the seat of the fountain. It was easy to tell the she was of noble blood by her appearance. She wore a sleeveless gown the color of Amethyst and a carefully detailed pair of high heeled slippers. A polished pair of bracelets rested on her left wrist. She jingled the bracelets daintily as she eyed the water. To many, she was quite the sight to see. A few of the men appearing to observe the fountain were actually stalwart admirers of the young noblewoman. She did not appear to mind their observance.

The woman was Cecille Allard de Val Royeaux. She was a young Orlesian noble born and raised in Val Royeaux. She had been running errands around the city when she had stopped by the fountain for a break. It did not take long for Cecille to become captivated in it's serenity compared to the bustle of the city. She had easily gone off track with her day. It was no matter. Her servants would be able to recover and lost time. "What a beautiful day it is." Cecille mumbled to herself. The sun stared down at the rowdy city, heating it up significantly. She sighed quietly, fanning herself lightly. Cecille Allard did not have the weakest willpower, but she did not know how she had gotten this far with the sun staring down on her. She let out another sigh. She eagerly anticipated nightfall, hoping for the temperatures to drop significantly. A cool night and a fantastic fountain. The image the thought produced in her mind was a pleasant one. Not even the faithful fountain could protect her fantasies for long, especially in Orlais.

Cecille's fantasy was broken by the sight of a small plethora of soldiers marching around. Cecille's solemn lips curved into a frown. A reminder of her empire's plights. Her empress had been driven out by a cousin who unofficially replaced her with himself. The whole idea of the matter disgusted her. The Orlesian game already disrupted the entire empire. Why must he cause further disruptions? She understood the shady details behind his father's demise, but was a civil war the only solution he could concoct to fix it? She rolled her eyes lightly, brushing some of her bangs out of her eyes. She was loyal to Celene, albeit silently. Even if she believed in the Orlesian empress, she valued her own neck. Risking herself to speak out Celene would just get a dagger in her back. She knew it would be too dangerous for her to be the first one to speak against the Grand Duke. She was already involved in the Orlesian game, as all nobles are forced into the games one way or another.

Cecille shook her head and looked back to the fountain. She was trying to rest. Why should she force herself to think of the negatives when she was in front of a lovely positive? She put her faith in the fountain, as thus far it was one of the least corrupt sights of noble Val Royeaux.

[David]

Through the crowded streets of Val Royeaux, an unlikely pair weaved their way through the crowds. One, clearly a noble, wore the finest blue silk suit, with white pants and the finest in Antivan leather boots.  The other wore a simple off-white soldier's cotton tunic, with rolled up long sleeves and a v-neck, brown cotton pants, and black soldier's boots.  As they passed by the group of soldiers, the sergeant in charge recognized them, and offered up a quick salute.  Yet surprisingly, it was not the one in silk who returned it. No, the man in the simple cotton tunic returned the salute with a sharp, quick one of his own, whilst the nobleman besides him simply nodded his head.  They then both headed for the fountain, taking a seat on the water's rim.

"Why is it David you show respect to Gespard's troops, but when expected to present yourself well at his coronation you didn't even make an attempt to do so?"

 David, bluntly, replied without the slightest hint of deference in his voice. "The man who saluted was a soldier of Orlais, not Gespard. And what of that dog and pony show? Please, do not remind me..."

"David, for Andraste's sake, you are the Comte de Jader's military attaché here," the man in the silk suit chided.  "At least attempt to show the new emperor some proper respect."

"What respect has he earned Phillip?" David bit back.  "he's not the true emperor. I swore no oath of fielty to him..."

Phillip sighed heavily. "D'accord, but your still a soldier dammit.  Sometimes you must shut up and follow orders, just like I shut up and follow protocol."

At that moment, David snapped back, a little too loudly. "To the void with your damned aristocratic merde Phillip!". David stood up, angered, as a few of the passing commoners looked over in awe, expecting the nobleman to sic the guards on David at any moment.  Phillip, however, calmly grabbed David by the shoulder and sat him back down.

"You're lucky I'm your friend dammit, because had you had done that to anyone else that would have been forty lashes.". Phillip spoke softly, as if talking to an equal, but firmly.  David sighed and ran his fingers through his hair, looking away from his long-time friend.  "Pardon Phillip..."
"It's fine David, but at this rate the only way you'll be allowed home is if you win the tourney I Cumberland.  But that is why I brought you here." Phillip smiled, as David looked at him quizzically.  Phillip continued.  "A good portion of the nobility are about as happy with the new emperor as you are.  They also hate the man he chose to be Orlais' champion this year.  But, say, a group of nobles hired another champion, it would be a good way to poke a small insult at the new emperor without causing an incident no? This is why you are here.  I have an old friend, a professor of mine, I want you too meet.  He has money and influence, an could help fund your trip to Cumberland, as well as give you the armor and sword you need to win.  Wait here, I will go get him. D'accord?"

David looked at his friend, shocked that after his outburst the man still wanted to help him go home.  David nodded silently, and with a light smile replied. "D'accord Phillip.  Merci Phillip, a thousand times merci."

Phillip chuckled.  "Somehow David, I doubt you'll be thanking me a few weeks from now when your fighting for your life in front of a crowd.  Now wait here, I'll go get the man I want you to meet."

As Phillip stood up to leave, David looked around to take in his surroundings.  Most of the people who had stopped to look had long-since left, and the few that remain were now far to busy with their daily lives to care about the commoner sitting on the fountain.  He looked behind him, and saw a beautiful woman dressed in a dress the color of amethysts, and smiled softly as his eyes quickly met hers, then turned away and look off into the distance, the thousand yard gaze in his eyes, mind a thousand miles away, in Cumberland.

Was this tourney his ticket home?  Perhaps the Comte de Jader would be more willing to deal with a "champion" the a "common lieutenant who does not know his place.". David sighed as he remembered the day he was assigned away from his platoon and sent to the Capitol to be the new military attaché.  It was a post noone in Jader wanted, they had all been loyalists to Celene during the brief war.  That fact was the reason being sent here was a punishment, not a promotion.  

David, still thinking about the possibility of going home, pulled out a small beaded necklace and began to pray.  His words, however, were not Orlesian, but Ferelden, his mother's language.  Closing his eyes, he pinched one of the beads and began.

"Holy Andraste, full of grace, the Maker is with you..."

[Cecille de Val Royeaux]

Cecille slid a gentle finger down her fishtail braid. Her eyes carefully observed the fountain from the tip to the water below her. She was simply staring into the water when there was a sudden outburst not too far away. She glanced up and saw what seemed to be a commoner and a noble. The common man was standing while the noble sat calmly. The stances of the two clearly indicated the commoner as the cause. She daintily rested her hands in her silky lap, watching the two men curiously. How peculiar. The outburst went unpunished. The target of the anger was clearly higher in the social hierarchy than the commoner. Shouldn't he be punished? Cecille rose her eyebrow inquisitively. The scene had piqued her interest. Cecille casually moved close enough to the men that she could make out their conversation over the bustling of the city. She shifted her eyes back to the fountain and twirled the tip of her braid around her smooth finger. She looked back down into the water, silently listening to the remainder of their conversation as best she could with the bustling city.

Interesting. From what she heard, they were talking about the emperor and how nobles were as displeased with Gespard as they were. Cecille smirked at the coincidence. She had been thinking of the 'new emperor' just minutes before the scene. She ran her finger along the edge of the fountain. Did she have more allies in the game than she thought? She assumed there had been a sliver of nobles that supported the old empress, but she figured the majority would support Gespard due to Celene's hope to mend relations with Ferelden while many anticipated reconquering the nation while it was weakened by the Blight. One of the few positions her parents had been united on. The nobility Cecille was a part of were quite the greedy bunch, and Cecille would be the first to admit it. They appeared greedy to many outsiders, but it was quite worse from the inside.

The conversation ended and the noble man walked away. From what she had heard, they were clearly anti-emperor and were planning a subtle insult against him by submitting the commoner as a champion in a tournament. How would that affect the new emperor at all? There were tons of tournaments throughout the year all across Thedas.

Of course. The Grand Tourney was coming up soon, and which other tournament would affect the new emperor? Impressive plan. One not terribly noticeable but still venomous. She glanced up to examine the commoner. He looked powerful, perhaps a soldier or a noble's guard. Could he win the tournament though? He turned towards her and they caught each other's eyes for a quick moment. Cecille looked away and smiled. Handsome, too. Strong, attractive, and aspiring to insult an emperor. Admirable, especially for a commoner. Cecille frowned. She had her doubts. What if the champion died? That would ruin any form of insult they had been planning. It would only serve to up Gespard's ego, and Cecille did not want that. Still, Cecille admired the bravado.

She smoothed out her dress and ran her hand across her braid cautiously. She needed to look her best if she were to introduce herself to a future champion. She stood up and moved closer to the young man and gracefully sat beside him, leaning toward the fountain.

"Lovely fountain, is it not, Monsieur?"

She let out a small 'hmm', crossing her legs daintily as she ran a finger through the water. What was the harm of introducing herself?

[David]

Softly, David continued to whisper the small prayer in Ferlden tongue.

"Blessed Andraste, bride of the Maker, pray for us sinners,
Now and in the hour of our death, so let it be..."

As his fingers began to pinch the next bead, he sensed someone approaching him from behind.  As he looked up he was surprised to see it was the woman in the amethyst colored dress, gracefully taking a seat besides him, asking in her sweet, slightly flirtatious voice about the loveliness of the fountain.  David, while surprised, grinned softly, placing the prayer beads back into his pocket as the noblewoman hummed softly, her long, beautiful legs crossing as she ran her fingers over the top of the water.  The prayers could wait.

"Oui, it is."  he replied, looking back at the fountain, then directly at the noblewoman, quickly taking in her features. Her eyes shone like lustrous emeralds, the silk of the dress rested softly on her shoulders, lap, and curves.  David tried to mask his immediate attraction, but his face betrayed him, as he bit his lower lip, and a small smile curled from the side of his mouth.

'Stop it' he mentally chided himself.  This woman was clearly noble, far above his station.  Still, she had approached him, so it wasn't like HE was the one breaching protocol.  He continued, 

"However mademoiselle, I do believe there are lovelier things than the fountain here."

 He smiled, studying her facial features.  Her soft pink lips had a smile which could melt a man's heart, and her skin had the clean features of a life spent in luxury.  It almost made him feel embarrassed as his own skin was rough and sun-kissed from time spent fighting in the Dales.  

Suddenly, it came to David that a woman of this caliber would not approach him unless she wanted something.  At least, that was the case with most Orlesian noblewomen.  Realizing he should proceed with caution, but also realizing he shouldn't let her notice any change, he warmly introduced himself.

"I am lieutenant David Bouvier de Jader, and may I say it is a pleasure to meet someone as beautiful as yourself." He smiled, softly picking up her hand from her lap and kissing the top of it.  He then looked up, his smile turning into a bit of a mischievous grin, as he knew full well common men did not greet noblewomen that way.

"I apologize for my lack of knowledge with proper social graces," he teased, "but something tells me if that would have offended you, you would not have sat next to me in the first place.  How may I be of service to you mademoiselle?"

[Cecille de Val Royeaux]

The man was either quite brave, or quite foolish. Their social statuses were clear. To many the idea of a common man acting in that manner to a noblewoman was unheard of. If it had been any other noblewoman, the man would more than likely be whipped senseless. Cecille, however, felt did not necessarily mind his bravery. It only added to his rugged, powerful attraction. Not to mention the man's initial reaction to her company proved she was not the only one who felt attraction.

"Well, what could be lovelier than this little gem of Val Royeaux, monsieur?" She smiled at his flirtations, looking up from the water to him. He got bolder and bolder with each statement, each action. When he grabbed her hand - rather gently, for a soldier - and kissed it, a shiver went up her spine. Oh, his bravado! He certainly had the courage to be a champion. Many commoners would have been lashed before they even got the chance to do that. The fact he took it another step? Impressive. She pulled her hand out of the water and gently rubbed it against the edge of the fountain to dry it before placing it against the edge - close to him - to support herself.

"I am Cecille Allard de Val Royeaux, and believe me 'Lieutenant David'. The pleasure is all mine, and your lack of social graces are forgiven as you are quite adorable." She said flirtatiously, gingerly brushing some hair out of her eyes.

"What do I want, Lieutenant David? How do you know I did not simply wish for a companion to talk with? Quick to business, no? Well, if you must know, I heard a little outburst and curiosity drew me over to see what all the commotion was about. It seems we have a mutual dislike for someone rather important in the government and you're entering a dangerous tournament in order to insult him. Forgive me for listening, but it was difficult not to. I just thought it would be valuable to introduce myself to a possible champion, and so far you've proven to be quite the interesting man." She ran her finger down her braid, her smile still strong.

"It is comforting to know you have allies in this city, yes? Especially when it comes to you-know-who." She gave a subtle nod to a couple of guards.

"As I try as hard as possible to keep myself from the venomous nobles of this city, I had no idea that they did not appreciate the new emperor. On the contrary, I suspected the opposite. Now I know it is the other way around, yes?" She sat up from her more flirtatious position into a more comfortable one.

"So I suppose my point is that we could be valuable to each other, yes? If necessary, I can even support you as a champion. The chance to subtly deny the new emperor is one too juicy to pass up. And, well, if I misinterpreted anything I heard then at the very least I would have met a charming soldier."

[David]

Well, if one thing was clear, it was this. Cecille did not lack for confidence. And she certainly was a gem. Well, her dress was the right color anyway. And her eyes shone softly, her sweet voice had an almost mystical quality to it. David could not help but feel drawn into her. As she moved her hand closer to him, he in turn leaned a little bit closer, but still maintained his distance.

As she spoke, he listened. Externally, he seemed to be enjoying every second of speaking with her. Indeed, he truly was enjoying her company. Internally, however, he was analyzing everything she said. Was she truly attracted to him, or was she simply trying to get another pawn in her great game? There are two great lies all men love to believe about women. First, that they are helpless. Second, that they are attracted to them. Cecille here may have been genuine, but David knew better than to outright trust a noble, no matter the gender. Being a woman by no means stunted ambition and drive, David knew this all too well.

Was this the person Phillip wanted David to meet? He didn't think so. If she was, Phillip would have been here too. Still, David didn't mind the thought of having this 'gem' to himself. 'Focus' he thought to himself. Listen to what she's saying. Don't get distracted by her wanting eyes... or pouty lips... or lavender scent... 'FOCUS!' He blinked, and when she finally finished what she was saying, he sighed and looked out towards the city, realizing he best choose his next words carefully. One never knew who was listening in. She seemed to be on his side, but again, he did not know enough about her. He could never be certain.

"Bon mademoiselle, I apologize if I in any way seemed 'quick to business'. Understand, my experience with nobility has been... considerably less pleasant than current company is proving to be." He smiled softly, still looking toward the city, remembering his past. He then looked back at Cecille. "Also, this is the first time a noblewoman has called me 'charming'." David was much more used to 'Insolent, ungrateful, uppity, and his personal favorite, turnip. He still had no idea how that had come to be an insult for commoner in the noble's vernacular. he continued. "The fact that it came from someone as beautiful as yourself is quite flattering. If you think I'm charming now, perhaps one night we should meet for dinner." He smirked, his eyes shining with a light mischieviousness, knowing full well the small scandal that could cause. To David, however, he did not care. She was a charming enough woman, and who knows. Could lead somewhere... Stranger things have happened.

David then looked around, and noticed more soldiers marching through the streets. He then leaned in to Cecille and spoke softly. "About the tourney though..." He sighed. "I honestly did not want to get involved in this great game you nobles play... I just want a way to return home... To Jader. The only way the Comte will allow me back to my unit, instead of being stuck here to deal with all the bureaucratic merde he does not want to deal with, is if I in some way prove valuable to him. So, if it takes a tournament to do so, I will submit myself to the games of the nobility." He then looked down, almost sad. "I fear once I'm in it, however, I will not be allowed to leave... I do not care for Gespard, but I care even less about the games nobles play..."

He stayed quiet for a good deal of time, continuing to look at the ground. It was clear, he simply wanted to return to patrolling the forests around Jader, maybe even become a captain and have a true unit of his own one day. But aspirations beyond that? If he had them, he did a very, very good job of covering them up, to the point where even he himself could not see them. He then smiled softly as he looked back up at Cecille, his eyes scanning every curve of her body on the way up.

"But such talk of ugliness such as tourney's and politics are not suited for the fountain... or the gem." His smile widened, looking into her eyes. "So if you truly do want to enjoy my company, I am at your disposal mademoiselle."

[Cecille de Val Royeaux]

"Monsieur, believe me. I know all too well the unpleasantness the people of my upbringing can bring. We are not the most welcoming people, yes?" Cecille let out a small sigh at the thought of the nobles. She could tell he did not like to deal with them, but it was different for her. They surrounded her on all sides. She had to deal with them nearly all the time, whether it be their bards or their golden tongue. Both could be fatal weapons if used correctly. She had only been the target of a few bards, and thankfully had prevented their attempts at her life.

Thus far, Cecille had never sent a bard to kill someone. The few times she had even hired a bard was to prevent her own demise. Cecille hoped to never need too make the move on another noble's life. She thought the game was a waste of time that could be spent on something worthful. The game nobles played was a tough, dangerous chain. Most eventually would succumb to the game in some shape or form. Cecille had witnessed this first hand with her parent's betrayal and utter demise. She glanced David over. He had only the slightest idea of what the noble's game could do to a man.

She quietly laughed at his suggestion of dinner. "Dinner, hmm? You know, monsieur, that would cause much trouble for the both of us. Nobles care about trifling little details like that. Indeed, it would be a hassle to deal with. However, I would love to take you up on the offer. What's life without a little extra danger, hm?" She did not enjoy danger. Dinner with him added more for both of them, considering the game, but really, he was putting himself in danger already, and she dealt with it every day. Dinner with someone she was actually interested in listening to was much more appealing than the shrill voice of gossip in her ear.

Her smile faded into a frown as he finished with his thoughts on the tournament. She shook her head, understanding how he felt all too well. "I understand. The 'great games' are not enjoyed by all who play, monsieur. I was quite hesitant to put any sort of time or effort into them, and I'll be honest. Once you've entered them there is little chance you'll be able to free yourself from them. Nobles... they remember you. They do. Once you've put yourself in front of them as someone they can manipulate with promises, they will not be afraid to push you to your limits for what you desire. They know what they're doing. Many of them are merciless. One wrong move could get a knife in your back. One smart move could get you back home." She played with the bracelets on her wrist, lowering her eyes.

She felt bad for him. He was going to be sucked into the games, and all he wanted was to go home. It was a pity. She was obligated to participate in the social war. She was the daughter of two ardent players, that had left quite the reputation on her. David, however, was just a simple man who wanted to go home. It was as admirable as it was pitiable. Either he did not realize what he was submitting himself to, or he had an intense desire to get back to Jadar.

She looked back up as he quickly tried to change subjects. Her frown reverted to a small smile as he looked into her eyes with his bright smile.

"Well, you were waiting here for something, yes? I suppose we could have a riveting conversation while we waited, hmm? I do not care what we talk about, the company alone is pleasant enough." He was a happy, interesting man. Yes, she much preferred his company to the noblemen who tried to court her. They did not appreciate much more than her body or face. Perhaps the commoner would value more than that? He had only been introduced to the physical aspects thus far, but she had intelligence and strength to back her appearance up.

"So, what do you wish to talk about? I am an open book."

[Nathaniel de Beniér]

Nathaniel, Vicomte de Beniér, sat on the grimy bar-stool struggling in deep thought. Or not. He actually just sat there without thinking and stared out of the blurry window. The streets seemed so very sad through it, as if the world was nothing but an illusion - that our lives meant nothing, because it was all just illusion. Well, perhaps he was struggling with some deep thought. Nothing too complicated to throw him off balance, though; he was used. He had done this since his whole unit had been slaughtered to a man. Nathaniel shivered. Thinking about it still hurt - that's one thing that would never change, he guessed. Despite so many things are going to change, his pain won't. It will stay there, in the back of his head, always gnawing at his core, until the end comes - whatever the form.

Nathaniel felt a pat on his left shoulder. He turned around, slightly surprised that someone would recognize him in the remote tavern lying at the outskirts of Val Royeaux. A familiar voice began to speak to him.

"Nathaniel de Beniér - now a Vicomte already, look at you - how have you been?"

Nathaniel flashed a surprised smile at him. "Phillip, you - no, wait, how did you know that I was here in the first place?," he added. A slightly irritated tone crept into his voice as he spoke.

"Why, of course I knew you were here - how many times have I seen you enter this place? At least a dozen. Now, I've something very important to tell to you. Will you listen?" Nathaniel shrugged, as if what he was going to say would not interest him the slightest. "Go on."

"Alright. Well, you've heard of Comte de Jader, right?" Nathaniel nodded. "Good. He just recently acquired himself a brand new champion - a very good friend of mine: David Bouvier, recently graced with the title of de Jader." Nathaniel nodded remotely, as if thinking about it. In reality, he was still in his own thoughts - now they had turned towards the treason of his unit. Someone had betrayed them.

"David Bouvier de Jader - yes, I think I've heard of him," said Nathaniel, failing totally in his attempt to conceal his lack of interest to the subject. Phillip shook his head angrily. "Look, if you're not going to listen to what I say, I'll just leave right now. Is that fine by you?"

Nathaniel gazed angrily back at Phillip. For a while it seemed as if he would answer yes, but then his eyes flashed as if he was soothing himself. "No, no, of course it's not. Sorry. Continue, please, I promise to concentrate on it now," came the hasty answer. Phillip nodded as if the answer would've satisfied him.

"Good. Look, Nathaniel. David has potential. Potential to --" Suddenly Phillip stopped, as if unsure of his credibility to say such things. Nathaniel looked at him impatiently. "Yes? Yes? Just tell me, don't keep me in the dark!"

Phillip seemed to make up his mind. "Fine, fine. David opposes the rule of Gespard de Chalons. He has the potential to actually have an impact on the current situation."

"You mean - oh. Oh. No. Don't even think about it. Not if my life would depend on it, never."

"Oh, but it does. It very much does. Did I not hear of a certain noble close to him wanting you dead? Would his downfall not help you? Would it not benefit you so greatly, that you family would rise to very high positions? Hell, you might even become Archdukes as far as I know."

Nathaniel twitched as he heard him mention this bloodthirsty noble. He intended to find out soon enough, but decided to push the matter aside for now. "Oh? Archdukes, you say? Really, now? Well... as far as I'm concerned, I don't give a damn about titles. My father and mother do, however. You would be better off bribing them, rather than--" he paused, as if unsure of what to say next. His eyes flashed briefly as he spoke again.

"Yeah, sure. Introduce us, Phillip - I've just decided that I do want to meet him."

Phillip grinned. He was relieved. "Excellent, Nathaniel. Then I propose that we don't waste any more time - let me take you to him immediately. Just be wary of the thieves on the streets - you've probably noticed that they're literally filled with thousands of people.

It was certainly an awe-inspiring duo that made their way out of the remote tavern and on to the streets, where they encountered crowd after crowd of people on their way to the town centre. After a few sweaty minutes of pushing through the crowds they finally reached the place. They headed straight for where Phillip last saw David, and were surprised to see him now chatting with a charming noblewoman. They both stopped on their heels and waited for a minute or two, silently listening in to the conversation. Well, only Phillip did. And soon, Nathaniel felt him tugging his tunic again.

It was this exact moment Nathaniel de Beniér decided to interrupt the discussion between the two sweethearts. Separate them from each other for starters - they were already gorging each other with their gazes. Anyways, Phillip told him that he should meet this man. Even now he was standing behind him impatiently, urging Nathaniel to make his move by fixing his gaze at his neck. 'I hate to do this,' thought Nathaniel, for what he was about to do was against his nature, 'but someone's got to do it.' He began to stroll casually towards the pair. 'Wow, I better get it done before he really gets carried off,' he thought right before he reached the two.

"Excuse me, madam. Sir, may I have a moment of your time?" It was no glorious deed. They seemed to be deep in conversation. Apparently the woman grew fond of the man already, or so he figured from her shocked face. She looked like a cat who had been hit in the muzzle just when it was about to eat a treat it had found.

Phillip smiled at David behind Nathaniel. It was time to decide between the woman and Nathaniel.

[David]

David smiled as Cecille reciprocated his desire to get to know one another. He replied, "Bon mademoiselle, pardon me for saying this, but I doubt you're an open book. A noblewoman who is easy to figure out is a dead one. However, I do very much look forward to figuring you out." He winked, leaning a bit closer to her. Ah, but all good things must come to an end, as out of the corner of his eye he saw Phillip standing with another noble, who clearly indicated that the clock had struck midnight. He sighed, and looked over at Cecille.

"Pardon mua mademoiselle, it appears the true reason I am here has arrived. If you truly desire to have dinner with me, meet me at the Jolly Rouge (french for "red") tomorrow after sundown. I'll be in the right corner booth waiting." He lightly picked up her hand and kissed it the top of it, a twinkle of mischieviousness again dancing across his eyes as he winked at the noblewoman, still clearly aware of the breach of societal protocol. He then stood up, letting her hand fall back to her lap, as he stood up and faced Phillip and Nathaniel.

As they walked away, Phillip made introductions. "David, this is Nathaniel de Benier, the nobleman I wanted you to meet."

David's eyes widened a bit, as he immediately recognized the name. "You mean the survivor of the ambush a few years back? It is an honor to meet you monsier. I'm a great fan of your dissertation on forest warfare and the nature of ambushes." David smiled, looking sincerely at Nathaniel. This was a very learned man, one who was well known amongst the soldiers of Jader. He was well respected, and it was truly an honor to meet him.

David continued. "So I assume you are going to be the one who's going to help fund me in Cumberland?"

[Nathaniel de Beniér]

To find a man who you had just met so full of enthusiasm, trust and openness almost shocked Nathaniel. In lieu of expressing his emotions through his actions, he instead decided to settle with a warm smile. No point in handing out bad impressions to everyone you met, especially those who could be very, very beneficial to you.

"I thank you for your admiration, David, but it was no great deed. The only thing worth mentioning was that I killed the captain of the Nevarrans." As David had finished saying his final statement, Nathaniel turned to Phillip. He put on the "caught red-handed" - face as he addressed the noble.

"I did not hear a word of any funding, Phillip! I would like you to inform me beforehand about such details," he said with a spark of sarcasm in his voice.

Then he dexterously turned around to face David. He flashed a grin at him. "David Bouvier, I can't just lend you the money right off the bat. Or pay your journey. We've to talk things over. There might be some things that I need from you - in return. Or some details that we need settled. This you must understand." His tone made it clear that he was not kidding.

"We need a better place to talk, too. Do you know of any?" He looked around himself as if to further emphasize on his point. But seeing that he could not spot anything, he shrugged and turned back to David.

[Cecille de Val Royeaux]

"Monsieur, you are half right," she said with a sly smirk, "as I could be an open book all I want and survive. Some strategies in the game revolve around brutal honesty. Much trickier than lying your heart out, of course."

She had finished speaking when she noticed two men were watching them. She recognized one as the noble David had been talking to earlier and the other, who she had never seen before, began to walk towards them. She frowned and smoothed out her amethyst dress. She knew she would not have his attention for long, and soon enough, David was bidding her farewell. She let out a soft sigh. It was a shame to lose his attention so quickly. She understood his business was leagues more important than her affection, but it still disappointed her.

"The Jolly Rouge, hmmm? I'll see you there, then, monsieur."

She turned back to the fountain and let out a second gentle sigh. Oh well. She would have his attention once more soon. Now, what was she doing? She glanced around casually, letting out a slight 'hnnh'. She had lost all sense of time and effort in their conversation. She could probably finish her errands if she tried, but... she just did not feel like it any more. Her mind still dwelt on the charming commoner she had the pleasure of meeting.

She perked her eyebrow up, cautiously looking over her shoulder. They were close enough for her to hear a bit now and then. Not that she cared all that much about their discussion this time. Now she was more concerned about what to do with the rest of her time.

However, as Cecille was sitting and observing the fountain, she heard an interesting snippet of information. The other man seemed to be unaware he'd be funding the commoner's trip to Cumberland. She let out a breath of air with a smirk. Cecille turned towards the trio, analyzing them momentarily. Perhaps she could use this to her advantage. She had her own share of funds. She could spare some of her fortune to help him reach Cumberland. That wouldn't hurt her all that much, would it? It may even help her in the end. If she helped the new champion, perhaps the nobles that hated Gespard as well would raise their opinion of her. That would save her much grief in the coming days. That's right. Clearly, aiding him was in her best interest. It would also raise his opinion of her.

She stood up, striding towards the trio confidently. She closed in just as the man whom was unknown to her mentioned that they needed a more secure location to speak.

"Pardon the interruption, monsieur, but I heard talk of funds for this man's trip?" She rested a hand on her hip, shifting her weight to said hip. "I would like to put forth my own funds if there is any sort of need for it. We're all have similar objectives here, yes?" She smiled, brushing her bangs daintily. "And if we need a place to discuss things, my home is quite secure if you don't mind the little elves dashing around. They won't bother you."

[David]

David looked cautiously at Nathaniel.  What did he mean he didn't know? Phillip simply shrugged as David looked at him confused.  Dammit he thought to himself.  He was dragging him into the game after all.  David sighed, and looked at Nathaniel dead in the eye, with a look that was filled with dread.  He knew that he was about to submit himself to being a pawn.  Dammit all to hell....

"What do you need on return?"

At that moment, Cecille approached, saying in her soft, sweet voice how she could help pay, and they could continue the meeting in her house.  His look of dread turned to that of hope, and he looked back at Nathaniel with a different kind of look.  It was as of being around Cecille awakened something within David, as he looked at Nathaniel with a look of charismatic, confident ambition in his eyes.  It was the kind of look few men truly had, the kind that said if you gave the man an angry mob he could march off and conquer the Tevinter imperium.  

"Well, perhaps discussing 'details' away from the streets would not be such a bad thing no?". He grinned.  He looked over at Cecille, and continued.  "Actually Cecille, it'd be best to have the servants as far as possible.  Servants, despite what many nobles think, have ears and mouths, and enjoy using them, especially when offered coin.  Perhaps you should let them have the day off, or at the very least keep them away from the conversation.". 

David had grown up with the 'help,' he knew how they were like.  He knew that many nobles had spies in their homes, and where well aware of it, but enjoyed acting careless.  He didn't want to take many chances with anything relating to the new emperor... What had he gotten himself into?

[Nathaniel de Beniér]

The woman approached them. What was she up to? Was this her way of taking revenge at Nathaniel? Just when they were about to get in business, too. Nathaniel cursed his luck, but played along nevertheless. Despite the woman's promises of help and funding, Nathaniel could only feel distrust and anger towards her. She was too much...too much like her. Only now he realized the shocking similarity between the two. The way she spoke, the way she carried himself out, and most of all her presence. Nathaniel could feel the power and determination from this woman. Whatever she was up to, it was not out of pure benevolence, and that was all that mattered to Nathaniel - he could not allow this woman to ensnare David.

And just now he realized that David was looking at him in an odd fashion. Was it fear that he spotted in the man's eyes? Dare he make that assumption? Would this newly-appointed champion of Comte de Jader fear a noble like him - or perhaps he feared what this noble could do? Did he fear that his services would be abused? Nathaniel kept his calm, but quietly and slowly the cold rage began to grow in his head. It was not him that he needed to fear - it was her.

When the commoner asked him what he needed in return, he already had the answer ready. "I don't need anything much. I just need information." Despite his dislike for the woman, he realized that her offer would be beneficial - for the time being. He would only have to win the commoner's trust and all would be well - he only wanted to know if the man knew anything about this mysterious noble, who wanted him dead. Or perhaps the noblewoman would know about it. Who knows?

As the noblewoman presented her offer, David looked back at Nathaniel with renewed hope and vigor. Apparently he already had sympathies for her - it would make his job far more dangerous. Hopefully the man wouldn't be a fool and reject his help. That's the last thing Nathaniel hoped to happen.

"Oui, the servants must be kept far. We will discuss this behind locked doors, preferably in a soundproofed room so that nobody can listen in the conversation." He threw a glance towards the noblewoman. He realized that he still didn't know her name. "Excuse me, mademoiselle, but I don't believe we have been properly introduced yet. Vicomte Nathaniel de Beniér, son of Comte Oswald de Beniér." He struggled gallantly and managed to conjure a warm smile on his face.

[Cecille de Val Royeaux]

Cecille smiled back to David's grin. Her offer clearly tickled his fancies. She was elated she was going to help him and insult a fool all at once. Cecille much preferred this to running errands she could be sending her servants on.

"I know how servants work in Orlais, monsieur. I have had no reason to distrust my workers, but I understand the concern. They will be dismissed until my house is done being used or it becomes a sty." She glanced over the three men. David seemed happy enough with her offer. The original noble did not seem necessarily happy with the idea but he seemed content enough.

The third man seemed strange. Not necessarily bad but peculiar. He looked at her oddly, like he had seen her someplace before and couldn't recognize who she was. It unnerved her, but it was likely just a coincidence. He probably had seen her a party of some sort and just couldn't quite put a name to the image.

He mentioned that all he wanted was some information. Well that's incredibly vague. Cecille eyed him over curiously. He was an odd man. Something was bugging him, but she couldn't pin what. She was good at reading people, especially men. She couldn't read him as well, though. There was some kind of mystery shrouding him. She decided it would be best to avoid worrying about him for the time being. Right now, she should be concerned about three men - one a commoner - ruining her well-kept home.

Once he finished his introduction, she held her small yet strong hand out to him. Her hands had become strong from her archery training.

"Oh, it is a pleasure to meet you, Vicomte Nathaniel de Beniér. I am Cecille Allard de Val Royeaux. My parents have no real importance other than the fact they birthed me, so I'll keep my father to myself." She flashed him a quick, humorous smile.

"If you seek information, my home will be safe enough to talk discuss it. I'll have the servants sent out on errands and we can talk in the dining room or archery room, depending on how likely you are to make a mess of my home." She finished with another humorous smile. She was concerned to have three strangers in her home, but they seemed safe enough. At least, David and the first noble did. The Vicomte still seemed peculiar, but it was all or nothing. If he tried anything funny, she'd plant an arrow in his forehead.

[David]

David looked at the two nobles exchange false courtesies and sigh. That's one thing he'd never understand about the nobility. Why the false courtesy, when clearly the two did not like each other? Why Nathaniel immediately disliked Cecille was an even greater mystery, but then he thought about it. Nobles, by nature, were all in a great game against each other. Perhaps Cecille presented a challenge of sorts? Maybe their houses had been against each other one point? Or maybe Nathaniel was just very paranoid. Phillip had told him Nathaniel was excessively finicky about the company he kept. David sighed, and looked over at Phillip, as if asking for him to help out. He nodded and stepped in.

"Bon, and I am Vicomte Phillip de Jader." He grinned, placing his hands on each of their shoulders. "Come, perhaps we can continue pleasantries on the way to Cecille's manor no? I am certain it is much more comfortable than this stifling city heat." He finished, as he stepped away from the two.

David nodded, looking at the nobles, and suddenly realized just how very out of place he appeared. Before him stood three very well dressed people, of the highest caliber of social stature. He, by contrast, was but a soldier. While he may have been an officer, he was by no mean a member of the elite. He had worked his way up. He bit his lower lip and looked down a bit, then back at the group. What had he gotten himself into.

As they walked toward her manor, he continued to feel more and more out of place, and remained generally quiet. Common people looking at the nobles all gawked at the man common man who walked with him, with harsh whispers and cruel faces as they passed. 'Who does he think he is?' They seemed to say. One of the four didn't belong. By the time they reached her manor, he was greatful to be inside, away from the crowd. He sighed and looked towards the others, waiting to hear what exactly it was these players of the great game were planning. He was hoping he hadn't just sped up his own hourglass in father Death's bookcase.