therookery | (no subject)

Entry tags:

(no subject)

FORM: Crystal
SENDER: Kain Ventfort
RECIPIENT: Everyone
WHAT: Kain has been away back home for part of the past month, grieving with and visiting friends, and he's now getting back to things around here!
WHEN: Nowish
WHERE: Kirkwall
NOTES: N/A

It's been a long year already, and it's still only a couple of months in. But... what's done is done. We can do nothing more for those lost but move forward and remember. After everything that happened after Ghislain, it only seemed right that I return home again, to see the people there, after everything... [He seemingly loses his train of thought and trails off into a silence for a moment, before collecting himself and resuming.] Anyway, it's done. I'm back now.

Has all been well here? I see and hear no signs of restless spirits, so I can only assume it has been. Relatively well, anyway. Still, if there's anything of importance that I've missed, I would be glad to hear of it. I have little input about the Divine, I'm afraid, as I would rather defer to someone who's more invested and knowledgeable on the matter than I.

Also, I was sent back here with far more Orlesian sweets and confections than I know what to do with. Might there be anyone with a sweet tooth who would take some of these goods off my hands?

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

I'm sorry I couldn't join you and provide some moral support. Christine's departure made that impossible, as you might have guessed.

Are any of those sweets dog-friendly?

It's all right. Cecil and Rosalie would have loved to see you especially, but perhaps some other time. A better time. I had heard about Christine, and that's too bad. I'm sorry we've lost such an insightful researcher.

[They'd made so many advances on the red lyrium thanks to her, and that's something he deeply cares about figuring out, of course.]

Anyway, yes, there should be plenty that Garahel can enjoy. Believe me, my friends made sure of that.

That's so kind of them. Hopefully we'll have a chance to meet later.

[It's getting harder to be intimidated by the thought of meeting Orlesian nobles when they're so considerate. If only they weren't so busy....]

If you can't wait, you're welcome to stop by the office. I can put aside paperwork to catch up properly.

I hope so, too. Rosalie would especially like that.

[It probably helps this his closest friends are the least intimidating, most friendly people in Orlais. The others would welcome her as well, of course, but those two are especially important.]

And I'd like that. I have nothing particular scheduled at the moment... nothing that can't wait, anyway.

Good. Potato has missed you, too, but we can go see her together afterward.

And I've missed her. Between the... setback... into the year's start, and then my being away, we have considerable catching up to do. I guess I ought to offer her some treats as well.

That would be a good starting point, yes, though she's less easily appeased in that respect than Garahel. Wear heavy gloves, I suspect she might give in to some revenge-nipping.

I'll be sure to keep that in mind... and by now, I know to expect to be knocked off my feet. She'll be far too excitable when I finally show up, I've no doubt.

[She never has quite gotten over that whole lap-griffon thing entirely, even if she's learned to be cautious enough not to squash anyone.]

That has will never change, trust me. I have to avoid being squashed flat each and every time.

It's a strangely endearing habit that makes Potato... who she is. I don't mind being knocked over in greeting. As long as she continues to consider us worthy, that's what matters most to me.

So, will we see you soon?

You most certainly will. I'm looking forward to it.

[Garahel lets out an anxious whine in response.

When Kain finds them, Inessa is using her mabari as a pillow, reading a letter and taking a sip from the teacup in her hand. She looks a little tired, but not in a bad mood for all that. Upon hearing his footsteps, she looks up with a smile as Garahel's tail starts to wag.]

[It doesn't take Kain very long at all, and his steps quicken as he approaches them. He's carrying a handful of fancy containers that hold all sorts of candies and baked goods.]

It's been far too long... but here I am, and I come bearing treats as promised. I'd never come to either of you empty handed... especially you, Garahel.

[He moves along to take a seat and settle in beside the both of them, leaning in with a kiss of greeting for Inessa, and some head patting for Garahel.]

[Leaning up to that kiss, Inessa rests against Kain once he's settled in properly. Garahel grunts happily at the head-patting, but also gives Kain those big, hopeful eyes at mention of treats.]

Yes, appease the bottomless pit for a time...and catch me up on what you've been doing while away. I want to hear everything.

Of course. Treats, first...

[Kain sets down the things he'd brought with him, opening one certain package which contains the stuff that he'd been told was specifically edible for mabaris.]

You'll want to pace yourself, as Orlesian treats can be quite rich and filling.

[Not that he expects Garahel to entirely listen, but still. He hands over some of those treats, giving him some more pats and scritches as he does, then turns his attention to Inessa.]

Same for us, as well. My friends are far too generous and kind… It was good to finally see them, although I missed it here. They're doing well enough, under the circumstances. The fighting remains well to the north of their location, but the weather was treacherous all month… But you can imagine, the mood throughout Orlais is very tense.

[Garahel promptly ignores that advice, naturally, making contented noises as he chows down. Inessa turns a little on her side, to face Kain while still using her mabari as a pillow.]

I can, yes. Are they relatively safe where they are? Or did you pressure them to move elsewhere? I know not everyone can pick up and leave, but they have the means, don't they?

[Kain watches Garahel fondly, wondering as always just where he puts it all. But he's earned it, after the rough times they'd had just a few months back.]

They're fine where they are for the time being, but I did remind them that they may have to consider moving on if the fighting were to drift further south. They've always had more common sense than I do, so I'm sure they'll know enough to get out if it came to it. Perhaps they'll take others from our old adventuring group with them...

[It's be just like the old days, and he'd definitely miss being part of that, just as much as he misses being with his old group of Wardens. But times change, and obligations with that.]

[Inessa nods solemnly.]

I hope so, for their sake. If it comes to it, Skyhold is quite a trek but that also makes it a refuge, one that the enemy hasn't dared to take on. Maker knows they could always use more capable people there...or here.

Yes, it would be a good place for them to consider... either way, the options are at least open. I know they have responsibilities there that are hard to leave behind, but still... I'll have to remind them, the next time I write to them.

Do so...later.

[She stifles a yawn, leaning against him. Between Kain and Garahel, she's pretty comfy.]

I can't say you've missed too much here. Ever since Christine left, I've been secluded taking over her job. She left me notes, but still...there's no one else to fill that role, at least not yet.

[Kain is more than comfortable at the moment, resting with his two favorite individuals. He pets Garahel gently.]

It's unfortunate that she left, but... such things happen. I hope you're ready to take on this responsibility... it'll be a lot to deal with, but if anyone could... it would be you. It's an important project to continue.

[She nods and sighs, after moment of looking as though she wants to refute that. But it is what it is.] I'll contribute as best I can, but I hate dividing my attention away from the griffons when they need me, too. Their numbers are so few, they need all the attention I can give them. There are never enough hours in the day to do all that needs to be done....

I know. They do need you. But you needn't worry... after all, they have me as well. As if we Wardens would ever neglect our griffons. [But he understands what she means, there's always so much to do and little time in which to do it.] You'll find some way to balance everything, I'm sure.

...do you think we're doing the right thing, staying here? Instead of joining efforts in the Anderfels?

[Helping Ciri, though she's certain that goes without saying. There's a weariness in her voice beyond the physical, and the way she speaks, it's not unfair to assume that she's been mulling it over for a time.]

Good question... and it's one I've considered at times, as well. I don't know if there's a right answer. But... I think... any effort we make in the overall grand scheme of everything... is still worthwhile, whatever form it takes.

[Kain understands completely, both the need to help friends, and also just... the desire to be actively out there, feeling like you're truly accomplishing something. He puts his arm around her shoulders reassuringly.]

[She rests her head against that arm and sighs.]

We've given so much of our time and efforts already, that I have to believe that. Anything else would be unbearable.

[Garahel grunts in his sleep, prompting her to look over and stroke his head.]

Edited 2019-03-23 16:13 (UTC)

[Kain quirks a lip at the sound of the mabari snort, but then glances at Inessa seriously.]

Failure at any time is unbearable... but especially after we've done so much already. I hope our efforts won't be in vein. I'm sure they won't, but... it's hard to see an end to it all, sometimes.

It is...but moments like this help, more than I can say.

[She lifts her head just enough to kiss his cheek.]

Good, I'm glad... and if I have any say in the matter, there will be plenty more where this came from.

[He has no plans to take off anytime soon, anyway, and won't care to unless it was as necessary as this last trip had been. He smiles at her at that kiss, reaching to tenderly smooth back a loose strand of her hair.]

[She lets him, tension easing away the more they speak.]

...Garahel won't like it, but I can wake him so we can return to the mage tower. There's no real reason to claim the office when we can be more comfortable.

I'm sure he can manage for the stroll to the tower... and then promptly return to sleep. [Relaxing right now really does sound pretty ideal.] I say it's much preferable to here, at the moment.

Likewise.

[She pokes Garahel gently, who grunts and tries to ignore it until she does it again.]

Time to go back home, Garahel. I know, it's such a hardship to move just to sleep somewhere else. But you'll adjust, I promise.

[The mabari lets out a bit yawn and stretches, lazily opening his eyes a moment later. Upon seeing Kain is with them, he wags his tail. Hi!]

[Hi, buddy! Kain is quick to get down and give him some attention, some pettings and scratches in greeting, in all the usual favorite spots.]

Perhaps you might want a snack before you settle back down to resume your beauty sleep.

[Of course he perks up at that news after soaking in all the affection, and wags his tail eagerly. See, he's awake enough to eat.]

Now you've done it. You better make good on that promise when we reach our room, or he'll never leave you alone. Maker, those whines pierce the soul.

I guess now I truly have no choice. No one can resist such a tactic... it's really quite unfair.

[Kain says this lightly, as he continues with the affection, then gets up.]

Are we ready to head back?

Just a moment....

[She heads over to the desk and grabs a couple of books and her cloak, then returns to snag her teapot. Garahel is already waiting for them by the door, very interested in leaving now.]

[Kain goes to keep Garahel preoccupied, then standing and offering to take anything off her hands she might want him to, just to make it less cumbersome to carry it all.]

We don't always have such an easygoing day, so let's go make the most of it.

Coming from you, that means a lot. I think I can be persuaded....

[Inessa actually doesn't have a lot of books to carry this time, probably because she realized that it would be a lot to haul back and uncertain when exactly Kain would return. So she's soon at his side with a smile, slipping her hand into his own as Garahel barks to get them moving.]

I'm glad for that. It feels like I've been traveling or socializing or both far too much, lately, so... believe me, this change of pace is needed.

[There's plenty of work to be done, as well, of course, but that's something he's used to. But for now, he takes Inessa's hand gladly, looking toward Garahel.]

All right, all right, very well, boy... I'm ready. Let's go.

Welcome back, [warmly.] The restless spirits have, Maker be thanked, not returned and we've been largely about our usual business the last month.

And--I know of a very well-bred Orlesian nug who might help you vanish some of those. It's been ages since she's had anything from her homeland.

She might even deign to share some with me.

Thank you. That's good to hear.

[He breathes a sigh of relief, glad that things are at least stable and calm again. Well. As much as it gets. There are always things looming in the background.]

A nug with a sweet tooth, hm? I'm sure I have just the things she'll probably like. My friends refused to let me return without a wide variety of delicacies, you see. Let's just hope your nug is willing to share once she gets a taste...

I've told her if she keeps on with this someone'll mistake her for next week's roast and then where will we be, but she's not open to persuasion on the matter. But if push comes to shove I'm the bigger of the two of us, so there you are.

We'd be glad to take them off your hands whenever you've time. [And maybe take the opportunity to ask a question or two about how the Warden's doing, in person.]

You have the advantage then, even if she sounds like she won't give up so easily. Even so, you may want to consider hiding some of it, so that she won't go through it all at once. [He totally uses this strategy for Garahel too.]

I'd be glad to bring them to you anytime, if you'd like. I'm not terribly busy, at the moment.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

(no subject)

Private

Private

Private

Private

Private

Private

Private

Private

Private

Private

Private

Private

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject