Video 1

[theladyofhighever]

[the video opens with a sixteen year old girl who is doing her best to appear self-assured and confident. she's in armor and she's sitting ramrod straight in a plain, wooden chair. she takes a deep breath and speaks]

Hello. My name is Lady Mariane Cousland and I'm looking for sparring partners. I use a sword and dagger, but I'm willing to fight with any kind of swordsman. Or swordswoman.

I'm also willing to teach others to fight, so please let me know if you'd be interested in that.

[she looks away from the camera briefly, as though debating with herself whether or not to say anything more]

Any responses would be very much appreciated. Thank you.

Comments

video;

[theladyofhighever]

Yes, but father had already sent envoys with my portrait and particulars to noblemen of Orlais and Antiva. Had the Blight and--and my family's betrayal never happened, I'd be wedded and bedded by now. I suppose I'd have been content enough and would eventually learn to love my husband, but Alistair and I were thrown together. Initially by circumstance, later by choice.

[and she sees nothing wrong with them being on the codependent side at all]

No, no, I would never do that.

video;

[closerift]

...Right. [ It doesn't seem as if she's going to get through to Mariane on this point, but...it's okay. ] Well, if you're happy, then I suppose that's enough.

[ For now. She'll have to work more on this point over time. ]

Alistair is lucky to have you.

video;

[theladyofhighever]

Yes, we're both very happy and looking forward to our upcoming marriage. Arl Eamon wants a tremendous ceremony and feast, feeling that it would be uplifting after the Blight and the strife of civil war, but I--I can't help feeling that the money spent would be better used on relief efforts.

[and both trying to avoid the question of heirs. they've defied the odds so many times already, surely one more time...?]

Thank you. I consider myself fortunate to have him as well.

video;

[closerift]

Then you've got a better head on your shoulders than most. [ Says the woman who had a secret, tiny wedding. ] They seem a massive waste of-...well, everything to me.

[ And on that note: ]

In any event, do keep me updated as to what your plans for sparring are. I can stop by later, if you aren't otherwise occupied.

video;

[theladyofhighever]

Then I will speak to Alistair about it once I am returned home. I believe that he will see things my way.

[she nods briefly]

I have to guard the Clinic until noon, but I'm free afterwards. Is that acceptable?

video;

[closerift]

Of course. I'll be happy to speak with you then.

[ And with that, she winks and signs off. ]