⚜•𝔉𝔢𝔫'𝔞𝔯𝔞 𝔏𝔞𝔳𝔢𝔩𝔩𝔞𝔫•☽♪🐺

And it always will.

*chuckles*

Yes. River stones especially are good at filtering out impurities of natural running water. Some have absorbent properties for that purpose.

Yes. They are good for holding. They can store and share energy that way. A stone can carry a lot of purpose. It can filter the water. Or become a home to a creature. Be used to make dwellings or tools. It's quite special really. We can't do that with any other elements.

I know! They are gorgeous. And every single one is unique. Has a signature. And a purpose. They truly are a gift of nature.

I love pretty rocks.

Yes!! And look at pretty rocks. And go to all the fun shops.

I KNOW! Then I can snuggle and spoil you for real!

Ma lath!!!!

*shivers with excitment*

You and Captain Isabella to your dwelling places yet? We have many rooms here. I want to make sure all of our guests have the appropriate accomidations."

"But yes, I was intending to ask what you have been up to before you came here. After the fiasco at Kirkwall. Just, making polite conversation though. You don't have to talk about anything you aren't comfortable with."

She paused for a moment.

"Oh! Where are my manners. Has Lady Montilyet showed+

The lack of curious eye contact could help her relax.

"Our lady ambassador is quite wonderful indeed. Very friendly, and a perfect fit for the job. Cole is right. Another curious spirit who found his way here to help. I have grown quite fond of the boy. As though he were my own."

She sipped again+

"It's no trouble. In fact, I am quite glad you have been acquainting yourself with Skyhold and it's dwellers. I hope for their sake that everyone who lives within its walls may find peace and safety."

Fen noted Merrill's nervousness. And so looked back again at the rain in the garden. Hoping +

To those of the sea.

"I can't blame you for feeling that way. It is quite a marvel. A beautiful mystery. A fathomless depth unmatched. You make it sound so exciting. I am glad you found such purpose and passion about its gifts. A precious thing few are lucky to find."

Fen chuckled nervously. Looking briefly down at her chest with a slight flush. Trying not to look embarrassed or insecure at the comment.

"Ma- I mean, thank you. There are... many ways to relieve stress. Was I that obvious?"

She chuckled again and sipped her whiskey. Letting her thoughts drift+

"Of the attention. But I hope you are right. If it is ever within my power, I hope to change things. For the Dalish, for the mages. One thing is for certain- no matter how things turn out- this world will be changed."

She sipped again and smiled.

"So, what have you been up to recently?"

"And it's always nice to have another Dalish around."

She swirled the tea in the bottom of her cup. Watching the leaves spin and stick to the sides. Pondering her answer.

"It has certainly been an overwhelming experience at times. But I am doing my best to adjust. I am still not quite used to all+

Her eyes. Then looked back up at Merrill.

"Tel'abelas falon. You have nothing to apologize for. I know it can be very intimidating. I was just excited and curious to meet you. I have heard and read much about you from Varric's stories. And I invited you because I thought you might be curious too. +

Fen sipped her tea with a smile and watched the rain. She chuckled for a moment.

"I agree. Some of the tea here is quite good. Much better now that we have earned more supplies. It was very weak before. Now if only our fade expert would aquire the taste."

She chuckled again with a fond look in+

Wash up and fetch us some tea. I will meet you there."

She quickly stepped inside to wash her hands and fetch a kettle and cups. Then met her at the table in the gazebo. Watching as most of the guests went inside due to the weather. Sipping tea.

"Thanks for coming. I hope it's not overwhelming."

Fen wiped some sweat and dirt from her brow. Then got up to dust herself off. Stowing the herbs in her pouch. Smiling and stepping just slightly closer to Merrill.

"Of course. Now would be a perfect time. Though, it looks like it might rain? There is a gazebo over there where we can talk. Let me+

I pity them. And as far as stress relief goes, well... let's just say I have found other ways to lighten the load. Yet another perk of the predicament I find myself in."

She chuckled again and took another drink. This time just a sip.

"What about you? Being a captain must be challenging."

Fen chuckled again. Downing her first shot of whiskey straight up, then tapping the bar for another.

"One of the perks of the job. Though I am also the one who sources our imports."

She swirled her second glass then set it down.

"Surprisingly, no. Demons have never scared me. If anything,+

Later. I have meetings to attend to. I will get out of your hair. I am sure the two of you have much to discuss."

With that she gave a friendly bow of her head. And a knowing glance to Solas. Then she made her way to another meeting.

@oneirologist.bsky.social

Fen could tell she was making the poor woman nervous. She chose not to pry. Let Merrill open up when she was ready.

"I would be happy to help. And otherwise, I am sure Solas here can help as well. He is quite gifted in the magic department. For now, I shall take my leave. We can make time for tea+

Fen laughed. Shaking her head again and walking toward the tavern.

"Right again. It is nice to have someone more down to earth to shark a drink with. For the most part I have to put on airs. What is your preferred poison?"

Fen'ara watched the interaction curiously. Interjecting at Merrill's comment.

"I have some ritual practices and meditations I use to keep a sharp focus. I could teach you, if you like. It might help. May I ask what it is you are working on that's so important?"

She hummed into his lips. Lingering as long as she could. Nearly forgetting they were in public as the warmth in her cheeks grew. Her fingertips trailing down his chest.

Fen chuckled and crossed her arms.

"Ma nuvinen, Captain Isabela. It is a nice title. Better than 'Herald' at any rate."

She rolled her eyes and shook her head.

"Speaking of. Would you like to come have a drink with me at the Herald's rest?"

She nodded her head toward the tavern.

Fen shook her hand then straightened herself.

"Ah, quite right. Though you can call me Fen'ara. I am still not used to all this... title business. I am glad your travel here went well. Be sure to let me or our lady ambassador know if you need anything whilst you're here. It is lovely to meet you."

She swirled the glass and sipped again. Then smirked.

"Perfect... though not as good as you."

She leaned across the bar and stole a kiss.