Author's note: Promise, I'll make this note quick. First of all a little apology, English isn't my mother tongue but I tried hard to check both spelling and grammar best I could, if you spot a mistake fell free to tell and I'll correct it.
Second, about the story itself, I will focus on the events from DAI, mostly filling the blanks between the major plot events, sometimes borrowing scenes or dialogues from the game, sometimes altering them, so, yes, there will be spoilers. This story is mainly about the development of the relationship between Cullen and a female mage Trevelyan but will include other characters from the game and probably original characters later on.
I believe that's it! So, I hope you guys enjoy!
She knew earlier when she had stepped out of the cottage and saw all the people in Haven looking at her in awe that it was gonna be a really bad day. It had been instinct but now, with this inquisition thing and all the nonsense about her being the Herald of Andraste she knew she had been right. And she wasn't even taking in account the headache that had slowly taken her while trying to remember what happened at the conclave before all hell broke loose.
"Herald?"
She was gazing absent-mindedly at the mark on her hand, and quite frankly had stopped listening to the planning of the trip to the Hinterlands a few minutes ago.
"Herald?"
That time the voice of Leliana calling her made her come back to the reality of the moment.
"Hum, yes, sorry. I'm not quite used to… people calling me that."
"That's alright. You've been through a lot these past days, it's all but normal that you need time to adjust." The spymaster offered her a small smile and went on with the topic at hand "As I was saying, Mother Giselle will be waiting for you at the crossroads, but the area has become the battleground of both Templars and rebel mages, you'll probably need to battle your way through."
"I'm sure it's nothing we won't be able to handle. As long as they don't have a giant pride demon with them, I'm still covered in bruises because of that thing."
"Well you should have stayed back as I told you, instead of running in the front line." responded Cassandra dryly.
"And then do what besides throwing ice bombs at him? I'm trained to fight in close combat situations, I'm better there then at the back just casting spells. And besides, I'm pretty sure you have some bruises yourself, I saw you took that nasty blow." She said back with a small amused smirk.
Cassandra rolled her eyes letting out a tired sigh "Why have I the feeling that you're going to be impossible on that topic Trevelyan."
"Wait, you had combat training?" This time it was Cullen speaking, a clear note of surprise in his voice. Alexis averted her gaze from Cassandra to meet the Commander's eyes, keeping her face as neutral as possible. She still hadn't figured out what to do and how to act in front of him, and until she had a better insight on how exactly he was positioning himself regarding the mages and the conflict between the rebels and the Templars, she was going to be cautious around the man. He had been quite adamant earlier on the fact that Templars were a best option than mages to help close the Breach. Sure, he hadn't shown any sign of distrust toward her for being a mage, yet, and had even greeted her warmly earlier saying he was pleased she had survived. But… Alexis wasn't going to place an imaginary "Good Templar" label on the man just yet.
"Yes, with or without magic I'm a decent fighter." She responded on a very calm tone, her vivid blue eyes scanning the commander's face for any sign of reaction.
"I had no idea they gave such training in the Ostwick circle."
"No, they don't give such training. The Templars wouldn't have been pleased about that, you can imagine." She teased without smirking too much. Yet the Commander didn't take the bait, frowning just a little before adding:
"I have to admit, I am curious about when and where you have developed such abilities?"
"You did handle yourself quite well in battle, even if a bit too brash." Said Cassandra
"Well, long story short, being from a noble family and the Trevelyans having strong ties to the Chantry nobody opposed me the day I choose to study and practice magic best suited in combat situations, which includes some sort of combat training. I was also able to come home from time to time and…. Let's just say that I got along quite well with my father's sword master. Plus, Ostwick may not have been the first circle to join the rebellion but when it did I went on my way and picked up a few things here and there."
She wasn't going to serve them the whole story regarding the last years nor give them an insight on how extended her combat training was, not just yet, although she suspected the spymaster to know way more about her than she was saying. But Cullen's response interrupted her trail of thoughts and Alexis' attention went back to the commander.
"I suppose that given the circumstances it's a good thing as you will certainly face many battles." He gave her a small nod, his tone nor his face letting any insight on whether the fact that a mage had learned how to fight and to defend herself without magic was bugging him, or not. She held his warm amber gaze, restraining herself from smiling defiantly. She had to know. Could he be trusted? Or was his charm and his genuine concern just a smoke screen. She knew how handsome men could be treacherous and the commander was too handsome to be just a nice and well-mannered former Templar.
"While you are in the Hinterlands you should also look for master Denett, Redcliff's old horse master." Cullen added, setting the conversation back to the planning of the journey awaiting her. "We will need horses and he's known to breed and train the best mounts this side of the frostbacks."
"Alright, we'll look into it as soon as we have met Mother Giselle."
"I believe that settles the matter for know" Said Josephine. "Although I will need to have a chat with you Lady Trevelyan, before you depart."
"Of course Josephine, but can it wait? I honestly have a nasty headache and I'm not sure I will be of any use right now."
"You're still not feeling well?" Inquired Leliana
"I'm fine, just the headache. It's just… every time I try hard to remember what happened at the conclave I feel like there are needles poking into my brain. But don't worry fresh air and a walk and it'll be alright."
"We could all use some fresh air I'm sure." Said Cassandra, giving them a small bow of her head while reaching for the door and exiting the room, quickly followed by Josephine and Leliana. Alexis was going to leave when Cullen called after her.
"Herald. When you have the time, come see me. I have some items that belong to you. The ones you had on you when the soldiers found you stepping out of the rift. I'm sure you'll want them back."
She cringed a little at hearing him called her Herald. She definitely didn't like that tittle. But she looked back to him not showing anything about her discomfort. And indeed she was more than pleased to hear that some of her gear hadn't disappeared.
"That's great, thank you. I will stop by later today if that's okay."
"Whenever you feel like it Herald."
She was turning away, ready to leave, but stopped herself and looked back to the commander, offering him a smile.
"Please, if we are to work together, call me Alexis. Or Trevelyan. You may even add Lady in front of it if you're found of titles. Because I swear that if I ear too much Herald in one day… I might just end up punching someone."
He laughed, even briefly before looking at her, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips where he had a scar.
"And we wouldn't want that."
"Nope."
"Right. Then I'll see you later Lady Trevelyan."
"See you later Commander."
She turned back, leaving the war room towards the main entry of the chantry. So much for not letting her guard down, right? And all because she couldn't stand a bloody title. She mentally slapped herself. Smiling and teasing a man wasn't a bad idea if your target is the random handsome guy in the tavern you're passing by, the one you're trying to gauge and whom you're going to be working with? Not such a good move.
As a punishment the headache came back hard on her, pulsing painfully all the way to her temple. She winced a little and fastened her pace towards the doors. This was definitely not the best day in her life.