foxsays: (Even in my darkest times)
Araceli ([personal profile] foxsays) wrote in [community profile] faderift2015-12-04 12:01 pm

She robbed them of wealth

WHO: Araceli Bonaventura and you!
WHAT: Catch-all for post-Mire; gambling in the tavern, Skyhold parkour 2: electric boogaloo, chilling in the gardens and wildcard available. Also dinner with Korrin Ataash
WHEN: Between returning from the Fallow Mire and folks departing to the darkspawn desert and red templar winter adventureland
WHERE: Skyhold; the Herald’s Rest, battlements, gardens or wherever if you wildcard it
NOTES: Feel free to have seen a wild Araceli roaming past (and possibly up and over) your windows or to have had a run-in with her fox. I’ll match your style/tense.


tavern; teaching cards and dice
If she’s going to have to learn new games of cards, the least she can do is make sure people can play a few hands of the games she grew up with or introduce them to liar’s dice. Liar’s dice is always so much more than just making coin or whatever you’re wagering after all; liar’s dice teaches you how to figure out a tell and how to cover your own with enough practice and how to tell the most bold-faced lies without a single person noticing if you’re good.

She’s more than happy to buy a drink for anyone who wants to play a hand or two. If you’re new she’ll go easy on you if you offer to explain how Wicked Grace works.

parkour;
The best thing about being back in Skyhold is actually having something to climb that won’t have her landing stagnant water that’s full of corpses ready to attack her. There’s always a little note tacked on a corner of the board in her elegant hand offering lessons and her name but it’s easier in small groups or one on one. Often you’ll need to track her down as she does her regular circuits of Skyhold, climbing up and down the walls either side of the fortress

gardens;
The gardens of Skyhold are larger than most gardens in Castileos, lacking the sea air but they’re more sheltered than most other places in Skyhold so she can some of the weak watery sun. After the Mire she needs it so she’s relocated from the library that was beginning to feel overcrowded with actual researchers, something she is absolutely not. Instead she’s working on something of a report, scowling at it most of the time and there are doodles in the margins, annoyed scribbles and half a paw print along the edge of one of the pages but it’s fine, it’s a draft, it’s perfectly fine.

Besides, it’s not even a report exactly, more of a guide, advice about how to actually get around and fight safely in conditions like the Mire.

Feel free to interrupt before she starts getting distracted with her little reference sketches.

wildcard;
Where else have you bumped into her? Or have you met a rather striking fox with streaks of red beneath his black fur and wondered who the hell keeps shouting ‘Lux’ as you stare down at said fox.

dinner with Korrin Ataash;
It took a lot of convincing to get the kitchen staff to allow her to cook. It helps that she had the coin to pay for it thanks to several profitable games of dice because it’s easy to spot a liar and far too many of the soldiers have honest faces here, the kind of men and women that’d be eaten alive in Castileos. She promised Korrin a meal she’d cooked herself and they absolutely deserve it after that hell.

She can’t make her favourite exactly. They don’t have quite as many fish but that’s obviously the problem with being stuck up a bloody mountain although there’s at least plenty of snow and ice to help keep it fresh. One of the helpers stays to explain the herbs she doesn’t recognise but all in all there’s plenty of fish stew served in bread bowls with rich tomato sauce with a healthy glug of good red wine through it.

When Korrin arrives according to the note Araceli left with her, there’s even a candle or two lit. Look, you gotta have ambience for this after she spent a whole day engaged in high stakes kitchen negotiations.
gatheringstorm: (smirk)

[personal profile] gatheringstorm 2015-12-12 01:15 am (UTC)(link)
"I haven't forgotten that scar, either, and afterward I'd be delighted to see it...and any others you'd show me. I suppose it'd only be fair to show you those of mine that aren't on display at the moment." Korrin can't help but match that roguish grin with one of her own. Scars, birthmarks, she loves seeing everything that makes a body unique.

"Shiny, hm? I think I can manage that, though I won't say more for now. Some things ought to be a surprise." And it depends on where they go and what's available, but Korrin's been there before, if not in that exact area. She knows what to expect, and already has a few ideas given the curve of her lips. Between wine and stew and the enticing vision before her, Korrin's certain this is the best night she's had in a good while.

"No drunkenness, got it. I'll hammer that into their heads--literally, if need be. There is one potential student that might flourish with your help. His name is Kas and he's another Vashoth--young, though, more human in height. He's just made it as a scout and if he's not coddled, he'll respond well." Besides, she'd like two of her favorite people to meet, if they haven't already somehow.
gatheringstorm: (raised eyebrow)

[personal profile] gatheringstorm 2015-12-13 12:23 am (UTC)(link)
That careful tone and sudden focusing on her food don't escape Korrin's notice, of course, and she sighs, realizing how that first meeting must have gone. Vashedan. "He was rude, wasn't he. He's not a bad kid, but being treated with respect is still something new to him, as it doing the same to others. Time might help those manners sink in, but I can usually get him to listen to me." And she will, at a time when Araceli's not the center of her focus.

After a reassuring hand squeeze and smile, she tries to bring back Araceli's own, always a worthwhile endeavor. "You have yet to see Val Royeaux; we should change that. For all that I complain about Orlesians, they have a beautiful city, and their food is divine. Most of it. Some of it I think was made on a dare, and I can warn about those." Dark mushroom and anise in tiny cakes, really? Ew. "And that's my kind of storytelling. I have a feeling I'll have to pace myself or you'll get all my stories before long, and then what will I have to share, hm?"
gatheringstorm: (amused)

[personal profile] gatheringstorm 2015-12-14 12:17 am (UTC)(link)
"Bluster or not, I'll take care of it. I want two of my favorite people in Skyhold to get along, if they can." Especially since she won't be there to look out for either of them for a while. Between Kas' youth and Araceli's homesickness, she worries more than she sometimes lets on verbally.

Araceli's enthusiasm about clothes brings out her smile again as she nods in full support of this plan. "And unlike me, I'm pretty sure you can get away without having them custom-made. If you want an audience to model for, I'm more than willing." Her eyes glint in good humor, then she laughs, remembering something. "There's even one 'store' where some strange owner has a mystery box for sale. That's it, just the one item in the entire place. He won't say what's in it, not unless you pay ten thousand for it. Orlesians...they're responsible for too many of my stories that I have to preface with 'I'm not making this up'."
gatheringstorm: (sappy)

[personal profile] gatheringstorm 2015-12-15 02:09 am (UTC)(link)
"I could always be a 'scary qunari' just so you could have a look while he's distracted. Sometimes stereotypes are helpful. And I bet we could find a mask that's sea-themed for you, I've seen them with starfish or mermaid designs before." Though she never thought to ask where they were made, so they'll just have to find out on their own. Not that extra time with Araceli is ever a bad thing.

"You'd always have my help, Araceli, whether lacing them up, giving my opinion...or removing them." That teasing grin lingers for a moment, already enjoying this future trip. If only they had the time now. But sadly, it'll have to wait. That almost-shy look of a moment ago hasn't escaped her notice, either. "I don't say what I don't mean, you know. Skyhold is far better for your presence, especially to me."
gatheringstorm: (teasing)

[personal profile] gatheringstorm 2015-12-16 03:01 am (UTC)(link)
"To be honest, I had no idea what to think when you and the others emerged from that rift. It was all pure shock, for a while. Even then, it was obvious you had nothing to do with demons...and the more I see of you, the more I like. I doubt that's going to change." That's not pure suggestiveness either, though Korrin won't mind if it is taken that way. She's honored that Araceli is taking the trouble to introduce a portion of her world, and can't help but want to learn all she can about it and the fascinating, gorgeous woman before her.

She quirks a smile, taking another sip of wine. "Oh, I think they'd allow you that. I've seen much more outrageous fashion choices, if not heard of them; 'titsicles' come to mind and yes, it's exactly as it sounds like." Orlesians are all a little insane, okay. She's not going to bother justifying their behavior or preferences. "Mermaids, starfish...or tiny pearls, all would suit you so well. Maybe I'll find one for you that has horns, and you can be the world's shortest -and most exquisite- qunari." Mostly joking on that last one, but that probably wouldn't be impossible to find.
gatheringstorm: (friendly)

[personal profile] gatheringstorm 2015-12-17 01:17 am (UTC)(link)
Titsicles do have a way of derailing conversations, though Korrin can't be sorry when she gets to hear Araceli laugh. Her response is a grin, at least until she gives in and laughs with her. Because it is absolutely as ridiculous as it is true. "Sadly, I don't think it's in fashion anymore or it'd be one more reason to head to Val Royeaux as quickly as possible."

Managing to calm herself after a moment to think over the image Araceli provides, she smiles warmly. "You'd want to match? Well, how could I say no to that? Masks aren't usually my thing, but I would be partial to an exception. Pearls and shells sound lovely, as it is."

She grows thoughtful after another couple of bites, comfortably leaning back now. "I'm glad you were there, and not just for my sake. Your company is something I'll always treasure, but I think it helped them to speak with someone who's been through the same thing. I can tell them all about Thedas, but that's a perspective I can't share. And it's an important one."
gatheringstorm: (when she smiles)

[personal profile] gatheringstorm 2015-12-17 03:54 pm (UTC)(link)
The idea of rifters gathering to help out their own, and they do share a common bond despite being from anywhere, greatly appeals to Korrin and she nods encouragingly to this idea. "I'm sure you would be vital to an effort like that; you're observant and quick to adapt, and those are traits rifters need to have passed on to them. Plus, your natural charm will get them to listen." Who wouldn't want to give Araceli a chance, when she's so insightful and willing to aid? Fools, that's who. Hopefully there wouldn't be too many of those.

Korrin pauses to thoughtfully consider the other idea Araceli's put forth, more frivolous but enticing all the same. "I've never worn a corset. It's not exactly favored mercenary gear, after all. But if anyone can persuade me into one, it's you. It would be well worth it, to see you in matching one, I admit. I'm not sure I'd be able to pay attention to anything else."

Except titsicles, because now that's bound to be a perpetual source of amusement. She smirks just thinking about it. "Truly an epic mission, Araceli. I'll do whatever I can to assist your noble endeavor."
gatheringstorm: (amused)

[personal profile] gatheringstorm 2015-12-18 11:37 pm (UTC)(link)
Korrin opens her mount to protest her stylishness -hey, that armor was custom-made- but she stops and smirks at that last part. "...well. Now I have to do it, just to see your reaction. I suppose that's a fair price to pay for effectively distracting you. You can very easily bring out the same in me, you know." Araceli's gorgeous in whatever she's wearing but anything to accentuate those attributes would nothing but awed staring from Korrin for a while.

"They're both good life-lessons, I'd give them that. And cheating, hm? I approve. Life is usually unfair, it might as well be unfair in our favor once in a while." Especially in Thedas, where it's difficult for anyone not a human noble to catch a break. "Something tells me it'd be dangerous to bet against you in Wicked Grace, though. I'd lose that corset too quickly."
gatheringstorm: (smug)

[personal profile] gatheringstorm 2015-12-20 01:00 am (UTC)(link)
"I'd offer to teach you, but to be honest there are far better people -Varric or Zevran- for that. And with your talent, I'm sure you'll be one of them in due time." Korrin can't help but admire Araceli's ability to adapt and think on her feet, a trait which would have served her well if she'd shared the mercenary life with the Vashoth mage. No doubt it will be useful in times to come, though Korrin will be there to help in those rare times when Araceli's skill and luck aren't enough.

That joke is met with a wide grin, as by now Korrin's utterly unable to see her not-Antivan companion with any of the suspicion others might still possess. Araceli's many things, all of them delightful, but no demon. "Your cunning plan could use some work, you know. Starting with me gains you little, when I have no rank or influence to speak of, at all. I'm a simple mercenary wherever I am, and I like it that way. True freedom."

gatheringstorm: (raised eyebrows)

[personal profile] gatheringstorm 2015-12-21 02:52 pm (UTC)(link)
"A Vashoth with influence? Maker, the very thought. You'd know the world is coming to an end, then." Korrin snorts, then drains more of her wine. "Influence also means playing by their rules and politics seems so chaffing. It's all I can do to attend those Council meetings, and that's with the promise of drinks afterward."

Okay, so maybe she has some influence somewhere, but still. With influence come obligations and doing anything other than what she pleases is anathema to Korrin. It's bad enough that she promised to help Adelaide and Pel. But she reins in her issues with that in light of her very charming company.

"If anyone could make that happen, though, it'd be you. I'm probably sealing my own fate with this, but I have this feeling that you could get me to do just about anything. It's very difficult to resist you and your abundant charms. I'm left defenseless before them."
gatheringstorm: (smile)

[personal profile] gatheringstorm 2015-12-22 05:39 pm (UTC)(link)
Araceli's joke is met with a thoughtful shrug, never having heard of such a thing, but it still seems more plausible than her own scenario. "Stranger things could happen. Don't tell Orlais, though. I bet they'd faint if their royalty was guarded by anything but the bluest of blue bloods. Chevaliers are one and all noble...in rank if not virtue."

She doesn't have the personal experience to say that with the venom that an Orlesian elf doubtless would, though she's heard some stories. In her eyes, anything else would likely be an improvement. The poor elves and peasants deserve a break, if nothing else.

Araceli leaning forward means that Korrin can no longer resist, and she reaches over to run her fingers through those luxuriant curls. They're far more eye-catching than her own white strands that she eyes up or braids in order to keep out of the way. "It needn't be only a thought that keeps you warm. I happen to adore scoundrels, you know...."
gatheringstorm: (kiss (josie))

[personal profile] gatheringstorm 2015-12-24 01:44 pm (UTC)(link)
"I guess it's the same everywhere, when it comes to those who make their wealth off the backs of others. The Valo-Kas has worked for our fair share of paying nobles and those who treated us as people rather than props were definitely the exception rather than the rule. Especially in Orlais or close to Tevinter. You have to take what you can get, of course, but it does get tiring."

Those glorious curls deserve to be treated only with the utmost care; she would never think to tug or yank on something so treasured. As for her own, the Vashoth woman gives it barely any thought other than to keep it back, but for Araceli it would be easy to talk her out of that. At least while they're alone, and Korrin has no intention of leaving her side any time soon.

She slowly moves her hand away from Araceli's curls, not wanting to mess up such perfection. When that outraged expression crackes, Korrin laughs along with her. "Very nobly, indeed. You're too generous to us all, especially me. And you have an excellent point. I should remedy that." Leaning in -and down, accommodating the much smaller human- Korrin teases no longer, at least verbally, her lips -still tasting of wine- brushing against Araceli's own.
gatheringstorm: (kiss (josie))

[personal profile] gatheringstorm 2015-12-28 08:14 pm (UTC)(link)
Korrin can't complain about rough fingertips, not when her own are callused from days of either training for combat or the event itself. If anything, Araceli's touch sets her nerves alight, responding to that passion with plenty of her own. But yes, that table is definitely in the way, something she should have thought about before her desire got the better of her. Oh, well. It's something that can easily be remedied.

The thought of moving away from those lips is unappealing, but Korrin forces herself to break that kiss just long enough to move around the annoying obstacle between them both. She can't take the small, slender form of Araceli into her arms fast enough, eager to pick up where they left off without anything in the way.

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