Re: [The Trocadéro] (20 Parvulis)
Things were as they always were in Val Royeaux. At least it seemed that way to Jana. People played the game. There were shifts in the balance of power, there were failed moves that accomplished little or nothing. There were secrets, lies and gambles. And she saw much of it from her position in Marquis du Vrais’ manor, or when accompanying him to Court.
The life of a Bard was often one of interest, at least, so she could not say that she was bored. Though she might have said she was tired of this place, and all the games. How some days she longed for her home… the place where people spoken in plainer ways and did not bother so much with appearances. Carmela would have scoffed and said she was not meant to be a Bard, but smiled because Jana was good at what she did, and they both knew it.
This early in the morning the Marquis and his wife were not up and making demands. Perhaps having a quiet breakfast with their two children in the inner rooms. Or perhaps lingering in bed. If there was one thing she could say for her employer, it was that he seemed to love his family. Soon the manor would be alive with the bustling of servants, preparing for whatever might occur that day. The tutors hurrying the children off to lessons, the clatter of cookware in the kitchens. Jana knew that her presence would not be demanded until the evening. Often she and Carmela would entertain at mealtime with a song or story, or with a dance. The Marquis’ daughter, Esmee, would beg often for the epic songs of great heroes, most especially the great Chevalier Aveline.
The thought made Jana smile as she readied for her day. For the time that would be her own. In the mornings she would often take to the streets of Val Royeaux… a trip to the market or swing by the Alienage to pass out some coin or other charity. Some days would see her at the Chantry, offering whatever assistance she could to the poor of the city. But on other days she might spend her afternoons gracing a local inn or tavern with her skills. Play a song and offer a dance to the common people of the city. Without cost, without demand. Without having to participate in the game. For the sheer joy of the music and the movement.
Today as she prepared to set out she felt uncertain where she might go, and what she might do. She felt like there was a wind of change about the air as she stepped into the streets. Guards already patrolled and she saw some Templars gathered at the corner, perhaps readying to make their way to the Grand Cathedral. Aside from them only a few servants and early risers were out and about, Jana amongst them.