faderift | (no subject)

WHO: Josephine Montilyet and YOU
WHAT: Catch-all log for August.
WHEN: Latter half of August.
WHERE: Skyhold
NOTES: There's a couple of prompts but feel free to PM/ping me @

ziskandra if you'd like a personalised starter!

1. THE AMBASSADOR'S OFFICE

The stack of papers on Josephine's desk has grown even larger in the past few weeks, but that does not deter her from methodically ploughing through the pile. Most of the time, she is still keeping her office door open, partly for any inquiries members of the Inquisition might have, but mostly because it feels less lonely that way.

2. GARDENS

While Josephine might not have much time to smell the roses as it were, it does not stop her from spending what little free time she does have in Skyhold's main gardens. It is a change of routine for the Ambassador, who had previously taken to strolling across the battlements when she had fancied a breath of fresh air.

While the Skyhold gardens may not have quite as many roses as Josephine would like, there is, in fact, a larger array of plants than she had expected and they seem to be thriving.

"I did not expect much of anything to grow here," she murmurs as she enjoys the beauty of the scene around her.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

Oh, everything from her clothing to her accent to her less than stellar manners scream low-born Fereldan, and currently she is looking a little uncomfortable under the weight of that last statement.

"Yeah, she must do," Avery answers after a moment, trying to sound more sure than she actually is. Honestly, she doesn't know why Leliana chose her for this either. Other than providing meals during her recovery from the poisoning, Avery hasn't done much in her time here to stand out, as far as she's aware. But if the Advisors are willing to trust her with this, well, she's not going to let it pass her by. Both for her own sake, and for theirs.

Who knows who might take up the job if not her, right?

Perhaps sensing Avery's discomfort, Josephine settles back in her chair and withdraws her scrutiny. "I suppose this is the part where I tell you my favourite meals, is it?"

For her part, Avery lets out a small huff that's almost a laugh, as a little of her discomfort ebbs away. Not a lot, mind you, but a little. Food is a topic she can focus on and not feel strange about. "If you like. I'll try get it all right soon."

The thing is, Josephine spends so much of her time working that food is more of a necessity than something to be enjoyed. Not wanting to leave Avery with no sense of direction, however, she tries to give the woman what little instructions she has. "Most of the time, I just take tea for breakfast. When it comes to actual food, I have a fondness for Antivan dishes, although I know that they are... more difficult to make with the Inquisition's resources." Easier now than it has been in the past, perhaps, but Josephine doesn't want to make a nuisance of herself when there is work to be done.

"Honestly, I am fine with sandwiches, or stews, or whatever is easiest to make. When it comes to meat, I have a preference for fish, when it is available."

She does, however, set out one limitation. "I just won't eat nug."

That means whatever goes into the mystery meat at the tavern is out.

"Got it," Avery responds to that last bit with a raised eyebrow but decides not to ask for the story behind the vehement declaration.

Instead, she continues, "I have actually been learning a few more Antivan and Nevarran meals. Desserts too." She hesitates a moment, slightly nervous for some strange reason. "If you like, I could bring some of the tests up sometimes? You could let me know if I'm getting closer to right?"

Josephine's eyes light up at the suggestion, and she leans forward ever-so-slightly in her seat. "I would love to!"

Well, the enthusiasm is certainly a surprise for Avery, but not an unpleasant one at all.

"Yeah?" she confirms quickly. "All right. I'll be sure to do that then."

"I look forward to hearing from you." Unconsciously, her gaze drops back to her desk. She should probably get back to her work.

Avery follows her gaze, but it still takes a moment for the thought to click in place. "Oh! Of course. I'll leave you to it then, ma'am."