When they returned to South Reach's proper, local heads turning in their direction and gawking at the elusive Wardens, they split into two groups. Cullen and Pup accompanied Drake to the tavern. He went to gather the remainder of his things, expecting the journey to take more than a day, while the Warden gathered his ally and the merchant. The aged Warden had to convince the hidden dwarf who he was before the door even opened, paranoia stronger in the sleepless victim, and then Cullen heard the bickering and cursing coming from across the hall - Barsk was obviously far less comfortable with the plan. He even slammed the door in Drake's face, locking it, to which the older gentleman sighed deeply and simply waited. Cullen soon made his way over to see if he could give any assistance, Pup cocking his head to the side in confusion.

By the time they arrived, however, he heard the door unlock and begin to creak open. Both he and Drake stood quietly in the hall as Barsk was escorted out of his room, a curved knife to his throat. The young Dalish elf hardly looked intimidating at first glance. She was a petite thing, with a mohawk of blonde hair braided down her back and large brown eyes that stole the term "doe eyes". But it was when those tarnished brown orbs turned to him, that Cullen saw the sharp, cold nature behind them. She was a killer, beyond a doubt, and there was no fear in them when she looked even him up and down. He felt as if she was exploiting all his weak points, finding those gaps in his defenses. And he didn't like it one bit.

"Thank you kindly, young one." Drake spoke as he accepted the dwarf in his hands. He put a firm grip on Barsk's shoulder, though it didn't look like the dwarf was going to chance running. Drake then turned to Cullen. "Ah, excuse my rudeness. General, this is Maya. She is our-"

"Assassin." Cullen finished, keeping his eyes focused on the small woman before him.

"Well, I was going to say something far more fashionable, but you are accurate. Perhaps I shouldn't sound so surprised, given your former employment."

"Yes. Subtly was Leliana's specialty."

"Leliana? As in the Lady Nightingale herself?" Drake let out a bold chuckle. "You are full of surprises, good ser. Perhaps you are more familiar with Lady Kathryn than I originally believed."

Cullen dared to glance over to the older man at his comment. He wasn't surprised that the Wardens knew of Leliana, she was a dear friend to their commander, but how much did they know of him? Did Kathryn commonly mention him in conversation? And if so, for good or ill? His attention returned to the assassin as the elf began to move her hands and fingers in quick, symbolic ways. She was signing towards Drake and, judging by the look on her face, she was either confused or conflicted.

Drake let out another chuckle. "I strongly doubt that, young one. This one is different, I can tell."

Cullen foiled his brow at the man, feeling the subject aimed at him. Maya signed some more, short and poignant.

"Of course! Again, I am being rude, forgive me. This is General Cullen, formerly of the Inquisition." Drake motioned him in introduction, to which Cullen nodded his head slightly to the elf.

Maya's eyes widened and she blinked rapidly in surprise. That coldness she had vanished in a flash, replaced with an almost innocent and genuine look. For a moment, he thought she looked cute. She then stepped right up to him, bold and focused as she examined him far more closely, enough that he had to lean back. Cullen was far from comfortable, but at least it didn't feel like she was trying to tear him to pieces.

He put an arm between himself and her, pushing her away with some level of force, "I don't know what you're expecting to find, but-"

Maya took hold of his arm then, surprisingly strong for her size, and slowly turned his arm to reveal the insignia on his bracer - the Blade of Mercy. Her fingers began to gently trace the outline of the flaming sword, and her eyes again lifted to him, full of suspicion and speculation.

Accompanying a slightly annoyed sigh, Cullen gave her a hard look, "Yes, I was once a Templar. And no, I'm not going to hurt Kathryn or any other mage in your group. I am helping you deal with the maleficar to ensure the safety of the people."

Maya stared at him for several more seconds before she released his arm and stepped away. She turned to Drake and nodded with a measure of approval, to which the Warden snorted in a jovial way. Drake motioned for them to carry on, thus they took their leave, the dwarf muttering begrudgingly along. Barsk never once tried to flee however, his fear of the assassin far more than that of the maleficar - or so Cullen speculated. He wondered how long she had been keeping an eye on him. Since their arrival, most likely. Was she in the room with him the entire time without him knowing? That would defiantly say something about her skill, or Barsk's lack of perception. That would also mean she was present when Cullen came to question the dwarf earlier. An assassin in prime position to protect the dwarf against any danger, even if it wasn't the maleficar. It was a troubling thought because of how easily he could have been a target. How easily he could have possibly died.

When at last they approached the Eastern Gate, Cullen could see the three Wardens waiting for them patiently atop or near their horses. Kathryn was speaking with a few of the locals that came to question them, probably in curiosity or awe of the Order or the Hero herself. He didn't know how popular she was nowadays, but judging by how accustomed Drake and Hordin were back in the tavern the other night, this wasn't their first visit. Upon their arrival, most of the fans backed off to observe the gathering party from a distance, garnering a few more onlookers to dissolve into gossip, but one rather familiar person remained.

"Mia! What are you doing here?" Cullen hurried his approach, able to keep his sudden fluster down. He didn't want his sister getting involved, or, subconsciously, figuring out his past connections with the Warden-Commander. Was she asking Kathryn about him? If they knew one another? How long have they been talking?!

She gave him a long stare, "Why didn't you say anything about working with the Wardens? Had you told us we wouldn't have been so worried. Poor Rose nearly had a meltdown." They were talking about the mission apparently, and that eased the General's worries.

Kathryn laughed quietly under her breath. "I do believe your brother is more a man of action, than words." Cullen nearly blanched. And apparently they've been talking long enough to share relations.

"That he is." Mia sighed begrudgingly. "And stubborn too. Probably worse than a mabari guard dog like yours." She motioned towards the hound, the auburn dog smiling as if proud of his position.

Kathryn chuckled knowingly as she stroked the large hound sitting beside her, averting her eyes away momentarily in an almost shy manner. Cullen heard Hordin snicker in the background and Drake clear his throat to silence the Templar. He felt as if he was missing something, an inside joke perhaps. Putting it aside for now, he began to ride onward. "Shouldn't we be going?" he asked the Warden-Commander with urgency to cover up his frustration.

"Are we in a hurry?" Mia huffed lightly. A knowing smirk was quick to form and she crossed her arms, "Or are you trying to avoid me embarrassing you in front of your new friends?"

"Yes." he answered a bit too quickly, resenting it afterwards.

Mia looked ready to worsen the situation by adding more comments, but Kathryn rose a dismissive hand. "As much as I would love to stay and chat, he is correct." she stated with a warm smile on her glossy lips and agreeing nod. "We must be on our way."

"Alright. Just be careful out there." Mia looked to her younger brother first, worry still in her eyes, and then addressed the group as whole, "All of you. And I know my brother can be a handful, but please bring him home safely."

Cullen audibly groaned, pinching his nose in annoyance and embarrassment. He didn't need his sister looking out for him, he can do just fine on his own.

"You have my word." Kathryn promised with a small bow.

The Warden-Commander hopped back on her horse and led the others forward. Cullen waited for the group to catch up, though he wasn't that far to begin with, and then followed behind. They headed east back towards the Brecilian Forest, but turned south and followed along the outskirts when they arrived, picking up pace as they crossed the grassy landscape. They were on route to meet with the other Wardens, which Cullen was informed they had a camp not far out of town, and it was roughly two miles away when they began to follow a narrow stream up into the lingering forest, finally venturing into its depths.

It didn't take long for Cullen to remember the place, or at least the familiarity, as shifty shadows quickly fell upon them from the heavy canopy and thickening undergrowth. The terrain became slanted and rocky, though following the stream gave the horses an easier climb since it cut through the forest like a jagged scar. Some sunlight did spot the rough earth through small tears in the leaves above, providing enough ambient light to reveal the lush beauty around them. Bright moss coated the trunks of trees nearby and the smoothed rocks that surrounded the stream bed, he could see long sleeves of grass flowing gently underneath the bubbling water, low foliage such as clovers and patches of white mushrooms decorated most of the ground, and curls of lengthy vines sprawled across the floor and climbed on rock and wood alike. Some even sported tiny blossoms and large broad leaves. Ferns and other leafy plants, such as Elfroot and Embrium, also occupied the forest in abundance with the occasional Crystal Grace growing among the fallen logs.

"Kadan!" the qunari suddenly called from the rear.

Kathryn looked back to the large archer and then southward through the break in the canopy where he pointed. They all came to a sudden halt, noticing a flare of red light soar upwards into the sky. It hovered above the forest for a little bit, flashing gently, before it eventually began to fade. Cullen easily recognized it as a signal fire.

"Wh-What in the world is that?!" Barsk asked in frightful confusion.

"A call for help." Kathryn answered.

The Warden-Commander turned south and kicked her horse back into motion. Everyone followed without complaint, minus the dwarf who obviously wasn't accustomed to riding horses, racing in a full gallop into the thicket. The powerful mounts thundered across the landscape, kicking up grass and rock alike, they cleared fallen logs, and plowed through pools of murky water. The plant life became a blur of color and vague shapes in their rush, details of the environment limited only to what laid directly ahead of them.

"What are they doing so far south?!" Drake shouted over the passing wind.

"Maybe they did something right for once, and caught the mage!" Hordin jousted back, a wide grin on his face.

"Th-The mage?! You mean that blighter?!" Barsk snapped, "Are you stupid! T-Turn around! I thought you were trying to save me!" He pulled on Maya's hair like a rein to a horse, hoping to throw her off balance and to the ground, allowing him to gain control of the mount and ride away. Unfortunately, for him, that was not the case.

The agile Warden hissed and headbutted the man square in the nose, nearly knocking him off instead. She spun in her seat, the steed left to its own, and grabbed the dwarf by his collar, saving him from falling. She glared with such intensity and coldness the dwarf paled and could have froze over. The large archer soon sped up just behind and single-handily plucked the stout man from the elf's steed, saving him from her wrath. Barsk yelped in response, balling up in reaction, and was moved to the qunari's horse instead. He said something to the dwarf, too quiet to hear, but it was enough to settle the unfortunate merchant and ensure his silence at the very least.

"Above us!" the General warned when his eyes caught movement.

Further up the beaten trail, there came an incomplete arch of two rocky slopes, a fallen tree crossing between them and creating a bridge, and crawling atop that natural structure were undead monstrosities. Some had questionable bows in hand, others heavy stones, and he could hear them hissing with excitement as they drew closer. Their presence supported Hordin's claim, though the flare supported a more dire situation than the Templar proposed.

Kathryn glanced over her shoulder momentarily. "Cul!"

Cullen looked to her in minor confusion, wondering if she was referring to him with a new nickname, but that curiosity disappeared when her hound rushed forward. The old mabari sprinted ahead of the group far faster than he thought possible, the muscular beast running along the edge of the trail and onto the rocky incline. Even Pup seemed surprised by his speed and excitedly barked at him. Cullen ordered him to go after him, which the young mabari eagerly followed. He took off in a sprint, able to close some distance but couldn't quite keep up with the experienced hound.

"Shields up!" Drake commanded, bringing out his large round shield just in time to block an arrow.

Cullen and the Orlesian were the only ones with shields, he noted, thus he kicked his horse ahead of the group to give them that protection. He noticed Drake mimic his movements, Kathryn and the others now riding directly behind them. Withered arrows flew and he could hear their deep whistle as they zipped past, some bouncing off their shields or steeds armor, but most were far from accurate. The undead may have been marksmen in life, but that was not the case now - that or their damaged equipment ruined their aim. The real concern were the rocks the other undead were readying to throw down upon their heads. He and Drake could block the falling bludgeons, but the others were left vulnerable. That's where "Cul" and Pup came in. The two mabari practically ran up the rocky face and barreled through the line of undead. They toppled like bowling pins, flying off the edges to the ground far below. Many shattered on impact, their skeletal forms audibly popping apart at the joints. Those that didn't die were crushed under powerful hooves. Cullen could hear the snap! of bone beneath him, along with the clang of their chainmail and the abrupt silence of their hisses. They cleared the archway in seconds, leaving behind only a few stragglers to be picked off by the archer in back, the two dogs rejoining them.

The pathway quickly curved out of sight, soon dipping them down and then up. Cullen was half expecting to find more enemies waiting for them, but nothing jumped out to greet his blade. They then found themselves racing alongside a growing cliff wall, portions of it hanging over head with dangling plants and roots, and they passed a wishful waterfall that cut down the rocky face, splashing some of its cool water on their faces. There was another bend, and then suddenly a blanket of death overwhelmed them. The smoke hit them hard, easily flying down their throats, choking them, and stinging their eyes with painful heat. The horses wailed in protest, threatening to throw off their riders as they skidded to a stop and fought against them in hopes of fleeing. Cullen could barely make out anything around them, struggling to keep his watering eyes open in the thick smoke, picking out only the orange glow of scattered fires and the furious blaze further in. The hungry heat scorched the earth black and consumed the trees in fiery pillars, devouring everything in between.

A swift tingle of magic washed over him like a refreshing evening breeze, the near invisible force sweeping away heat and ash and smoke. He instinctively looked back to the mage, his vision clearing enough to make out the woman who was no more than a handful of feet away. Kathryn held her Ironbark staff out to the side, the sharp crystal warped in the wood glowing white with a visible wind of magic swirling out of it. He could also see the borderline of her magic now, where the destructive hunger attempting to surround their party was kept at bay. They stood at the edge of the forest fire, its presence and strength unnatural, no end in sight of its reach.

Fighting the coughs still stuck in his throat, Drake motioned for them to move. "We must go around! (Cough!) Find another way!"

"It will take too long!" the usually silent qunari spoke, he too pushing out the heat scorching his throat. "They will die!"

"We're gonna die if we go through!" Hordin argued back. Barsk tried to support the Nevarran's claim, but was overtaken with nasty hacking.

"No! We push forward!" Kathryn commanded, her solitary cemented in her powerful eyes - the magical glow ignited within strengthening her presence. "We haven't the time to find an alternate route." she spoke regrettably, knowing the risks in either case.

"But the horses!" Drake protested in fear of the harm it would cause their steeds.

"Blind them! And stick close!" Kathryn heard no more arguments and everyone quickly found or created scraps of cloth to wrap around their horse's eyes. "Hordin, Cullen!" she called out to them, her eyes landing on them respectively. "You two take the lead! And watch out for demons, I sense one near."

More demons, great. Cullen was less than excited and, given the current environment they found themselves in, he was betting the demon in question was one of Rage - a molting body of angry fire bent on destroying everything in its path for pure destruction sake. With a strong tug on the reins he got his horse moving again. Though removing the sight of danger helped in coping the beast forward, the smell of ash and smoke along with the roaring heat all around them was still enough to give her hesitation. He and Hordin took the front, both with blades at the ready and eyes glaring through the snapping flames and hazy smoke. They took the path of least resistance, moving quickly in fear of getting trapped by the fire. Kathryn kept the immediate dangers at bay, the woman strengthening her magic further as they raced across the ash covered land, but as they journeyed deeper into the smoldering bawls the heat grew all the more deadly. Sweat coated each of their faces and soaked their clothing. The weight of his armor felt heavier, and Cullen even began to think the metal was absorbing and storing the heat to where it was beginning to emit its own. They would not last long here, at most a handful of minutes, before the hot atmosphere choked them to death. So, he prayed that they would find their way out soon, back into clear, refreshing air.

"Look out!" Hordin called in warning.

Cullen pulled on the reins with all his might, the horse protesting and bucking in reaction. He managed to stop just in time as a tree consumed in fire plummeted in front of him, the loud crash coupled with splintering and puffs of soot. His horse nickered and jumped in fear, but he managed to keep her in check. Turning to Hordin, he nodded his appreciation.

"Shit! That was close!" the Nevarran cursed, barely dodging the collapsing tree himself.

"Are you two alright?!" Kathryn asked as she halted behind them.

"We're gonna get our asses lit on fire!" Hordin growled in humorous anger, "This was a mistake Kat!"

"There's no going back now!" Cullen was quick to point out, their entrance now lost to the blaze. His stern eyes turned to the Warden-Commander, "Kathryn, can you conjure something up to get rid of the fire?! Enough to clear us a path?!"

".. Yes!" she answered, though there was slight hesitation in her words. "It's going to get real cold!"

Drake pipped up, "Huddle time!" He sounded a little too eager about it as everyone drew closer, each of them grabbing another person's horse reins to maintain a secure circle. The two hounds were somewhere between the tall legs.

In the center of the group huddle, Kathryn brought forth her magical power, the glow in her eyes and the staff's crystal turning a pale blue with frosty edges. For a moment, her protective barrier faded, allowing the fiery rage to lick their skin, before a sudden rush of cold wind, snow, and ice spiraled outward from their position. The white mass surrounded them and chilled to the bone, the howling winds slapping against them like a painful whip. Cullen couldn't tell how far out the blizzard expanded, the twisting wall of winter's wrath blocking all sight beyond the group. It became far calmer within the eye of the storm, he noted, the passing wind dulling to cool brush strokes and the nip all but gone. Flakes of snow and ice drifted about, creating a sparkling effect around them. He watched the heat come off their armor, the vapors being pulled by the circling movement and adding more to the dazzle. It was all strangely majestic. And when his eyes landed on her, she was no less so. Kathryn looked even more beautiful with the snowy white backdrop, and her remarkable will and focus, always calm in appearance, was something he found so appealing about her. She made the most difficult and intense tasks look like summer walks.

Cullen caught himself staring, to which he swiftly looked elsewhere. He quietly eyed the others, hoping they weren't paying attention and thankful they hadn't, then turned his attention outward. The blizzard ended just as quickly as it began, leaving behind a frost kissed land of icy statues and foggy air. No fire burned close enough to feel and the wind was still cold enough to reveal their breaths as they released a hush of relieved sighs. The horses snorted and shook themselves of the frost clinging to their fur, as did the two mabari down below. A bold shiver ran down Maya's spine, her long hair swinging behind her wildly, and she had her arms tucked in close for warmth. The dwarf stuttered bitterly, his teeth chattering loudly together, and his eyes wide in mixed astonishment and concern. The qunari was unmoving, appearing immune to the passing effects of the magical weather. And Drake flexed his joints to free them of any stiffness, fussily dusting himself clean afterwards.

"M-Maker smite you F-Fereldens and your f-fucking cold!" Hordin cursed between shivering teeth. He let out a huff as he turned his horse around, leading on with a light frosty trail.

Cullen let out a quiet chuckle. "I didn't think it was that bad."

The comment got a chuckle out of Kathryn as well, the two sharing a knowing glance as they knew the true power behind the winter storms of their homeland. Her spell was light in comparison. They followed after the Templar and were quick to be on their way, having wasted enough time already. Unfortunately, it didn't take long for the fire and heat to return to them. The blizzard cleared them a path and saved from them certain doom back there, but it was hardly enough to coat the entirety of the forest fire. Nor was it something the Warden-Commander wanted to continue doing. It was not a mobile spell, she couldn't take it with them as they traveled, and stopping to cleanse the flames would only delay their much-needed arrival on the other side. Additionally, and debatably on a brighter note, movement soon graced them. More undead skeletons, only this time they were on fire and had actual melee weapons. And they were also accompanied by a brooding Rage demon. This either meant they were nearing their destination or were being lured into the center of a burning cage. Cullen was praying for the former.

"Ahh. Finally, they arrive." The demon growled in angry relief. "I've been waiting to burn you all to ashes!"

"Charming fellow, isn't he?" Drake commented nonchalantly.

Scoffing, "He's dead!" Hordin charged forward, much to his friends' discouragement.

They all charged forward. The undead hissed with fury, the burning corpses counter charging with all their screaming might. The demon released a bellowing growl and enlarged itself to twice its normal size, sequentially empowering all burning fires within the vicinity - from dwindling ashes to stoked blazes. The entire area lit up in a blinding light. Cullen had to squint to see even their general forms, the dark smudges fuzzy in the hot background. And then the two charging fronts hit one another. The collision would have favored the mounted forces, but with the timely flare of fire they were forced to shield themselves instead of deflect or impale their foes. Still, those undead that happened to be in their direct path were trampled by the powerful steeds. And then there was also Cul and Pup. The two mabari tore into the undead without fear of being burned. Even when their fur got singed or ashes got in their eyes, they did not back off. Fire licked them all over when they latched onto those screaming dead, entering even their mouths. Pup was the first to release his hold, licking his mouth in pain, his inexperience leaving him vulnerable. The undead clawed the young hound across the nose and brought forth its red-hot sword. Cul was quick to come to his aid, tackling the corpse to the ground and grabbing hold of its sword arm. Pup jumped back in, grabbing one of its kicking legs. And then they pulled.

The undead were faster than they looked, and strong too. Cullen blocked a mighty blow with his shield, feeling the pressure behind it, and used the momentum of his horse to throw the skeleton off balance, thus leaving it open to Kathryn's blow. The blunt end of her staff cracked the back side of its skull, literally sending it flying from its shoulders. Cullen beheaded another corpse in his way, doing his best to weave through the burning entrapment "safely". Drake made it look so easy, the older man guiding his horse with his legs alone while he cut open or bashed aside rows of enemies. He even gave it whistle commands, performing tight turns and sudden halts or bursts. The man was obviously a Chevalier in his youth. The General could hear Hordin yelling at the top of his lungs in the flaming distance, cursing in bitter rage. The Templar had also lost his horse somewhere, either he jumped or fell off it, and was now combating the demon head on. A circle of fire had sprung up around the duo, purposefully entrapping them. It was impossible to see how well he was faring, the heat and brightness of the fires blurring Cullen's vision - in addition to the demon itself. He knew how dangerous a Rage demon could be though, able to conjure up blasts of fire or pits of molten lava which also spat out fountains of flames. Not to mention its sheer presence was enough to heat metal.

A crackling hiss escaped the believed dead skeleton as it sat forward, swinging its two-handed weapon into the horse's legs. It cut deep, if not completely severing a hoof, the horse letting out a wail of pain as it toppled forward and sent the Warden-Commander flying. Kathryn let out a yell of surprise before she crashed, hearing a crack in there somewhere, and rolled. Her staff was thrown from her hands and she groaned in a mass of pain as she tried to get back up, coughing up a bit of ash and dirt as well.

"Kathryn!"

Cullen nearly snapped his horse's head backwards, sending her in a burst of protest as he tried to turn her around and race back to the Warden's side. A trio of undead were nearly upon her. Kathryn managed to push herself to one knee, lifting a bare arm to block an incoming blade. A magical shield of blue light came into reality when the sword made contact and then she unleashed a force of energy directly into the skeleton's gut with her free hand, blowing out its midsection and sending it flying back in pieces. The other two did not slow in their approach, unmoved by the dramatic death. Kathryn drew her shimmering blade and deflected a blow, twisting in her low position to block another, and swiftly cut across the front center of one, the magical energy ripping open its new wound and ultimately ended it. She ducked under the following attack, before bashing it away with her conjured shield, spinning it around. She didn't let it stumble far as she stepped forward and ran her blade through its backside. It hissed in exaggeration, before tumbling to the ground at her feet. Between deep breaths she released a hiss of pain, her arm clinging to her injured rib cage.

Another burning corpse rose to the challenge. She casually rose her bare hand in its direction, summoning the staff on the other side back to her. The sturdy weapon speared right through the corpse, the woman catching the weapon and spinning it in a solid grip as the undead collapsed. Cullen quickly rode over and offered a hand to the Warden-Commander. Her entire front was smudged with ash, a smear running cross-ways on her face. She sheathed her sword and accepted his hand without hesitation, climbing up behind him, cringing minorly. Cullen looked back to her with concern, but she ignored it and told him to "Go." So they went. No more undead stood directly in their way, only a towering wall of raging fire.

Kathryn once more called on her magical power, Cullen feeling the tingle and chill on his backside, and a wall of ice spiked through a portion of the fire, both energies canceling their oppositions. It was enough to create a gap wide enough for them to charge through and they arrived just in time to watch the demon toss Hordin in the air, the man landing hard on his back. The damnation wasn't laughing in enjoyment, but rather screaming in heated pain. To no surprise, the Templar had injured it greatly. The Rage demon brought its claws to its head, a vortex of fire forming between its two hands, aiming to fry the prone warrior. Hordin was quickly on his feet and used his heavy blade to block the incoming flames as it engulfed his entire body.

A cold grasp struck the raging demon, the chill causing it to shrill in pain and fright, one of its arms becoming completely consumed in ice crystals. Cullen rode forward and hacked off its frozen limb, causing the demon to cry out again. It wouldn't be long before its arm reformed, however, as the body of living fire and molten ooze congealed. Hordin took complete advantage of the open opportunity. The large weapon swung upward across the chilled abomination, cutting open its midsection and removing its other limb. The demon let out a roar of unending rage, before Hordin brought his greatsword down, severing it two. There was familiar energy behind his strike, Cullen saw, completely cutting the demon off from this world and ending its existence. The fiery form melted away into nothingness and everything controlled by its power also came to an end. The fires themselves died, leaving behind only smoldering patches of gently glowing ash. The danger was gone and they could finally take a moment to breathe.

Hordin was quick to break the silence, letting loose hearty laughter and snorts. "Whoo! Yeah! What now, you burning pile of shit!" He kicked ash and stomped the ground where the demon once laid. "That'll teach you to mess with me! I'm a Maker-given Knight-Captain, Warden elite!"

"Hordin." Kathryn growled with irritation, the woman giving him a stern glare. "Your recklessness nearly got you killed! Again!"

"Nah! I'm fine. That demon barely touched me." He said casually, brushing some soot from his steaming armor.

Kathryn prodded him with the end of her staff, "I can see you peeling."

"Ow!" He flinched away, a hand moving to rub his sore. "Alright, alright! The skin's a little sensitive, okay?!"

"No more running ahead." she warned with clear authority.

Hordin blew hot air from his nose in a form of an irritable sigh. Muttering, "Yes, Commander."

Kathryn sighed before signaling everyone to round up. Cullen wanted to say something about the brash Templar, Kathryn was far more tolerant than he in terms of their command, but kept his mouth shut. It was not his place to interject. The group came together again, man and beast alike, and a cool wash of magic fell upon them. An aura of blue energy drifted outward from the mage, composed of a faint mist that softly caressed everyone's skin, healing wounds and soothing burns. Cullen watched as the tiny glowing particles so elegantly drifted through the air, landing and melting through his body like delicate snowflakes on warm skin. He had only received minor cuts and bruises, and they vanished without a second thought. Even the scrapes he got days ago disappeared and the dry burn in his throat from inhaling all the smoke melted away. He could breathe, and he willingly took in a deep breath of the refreshing magic.

"Thanks for the lift." Kathryn said quietly, trying to dull her irritation.

"Of course." He easily replied, understanding her position.

Cullen felt her weight press against his back and a hand on his shoulder, and he offered her his arm as she climbed down, to which she thanked him again. She hopped down and proceeded to head to her own steed. Drake was currently looking it over, checking its front leg. They needed to keep moving and if the horse wasn't able to continue… well, Cullen didn't know what exactly they would do - if they would abandon the creature or try to tend to it. Kathryn's magic appeared to have got it back on its feet, but the real damage was elsewhere. The horses were the ones that took the real beating in this ash and smoke filled terrain, breathing it all in, but hopefully her magic healed that like it did for him. The soot-covered Pup was quick to rejoin his side and he was more than happy to see the energetic hound unharmed. He would have reached down to pat him if he could.

With an approving nod from the Warden-Lieutenant, Kathryn mounted atop her steed once more and gave the order, sending everyone on the move again. The land was blackened for as far as Cullen could see and he didn't know which direction they needed to go, but the Wardens appeared sure in their travel. It did not take long for them to return to a full gallop, especially when sunlight touched their skin. The bright light was a heavenly thing peeking through the weakened canopy. After just escaping the hungry flames and choking blackness, Cullen felt as if he hadn't seen the sun in ages and he whispered a prayer to the Maker in gratitude. Even the long shadows of the forest were appealing to him now. Unfortunately, he could not dwell on the praises of his survival for turning the next bend he saw movement beyond the tree line, down in a low valley. The people in question were still too far away to make out any level of detail, he could only see their vague forms, but judging by how some of them moved it was another horde of undead on the offensive.

The horses raced through the charred remains of the forest thicket, popping out of the tree line and coming to a quick halt. A barren ravine cut through the forest like a haggard wound, separating the lush green from the crispy black, its walls too steep for the mounts to traverse safely, and down below Cullen saw a pair of Wardens, one a mage and the other a warrior, holding off against a number of scrambling corpses and demonic Shades. Bodies littered the ground all around them, most were vanquished skeletons, but some wore recognizable silver-blue armor. In the seconds it took to take in the visual information, the Grey Wardens leapt from their steeds and down the cliff. Drake was the only one to not follow. Barsk had let out a gasp and cry, first fearing he was going to be dragged down by the archer, but he was left behind to command the steed - which Cullen doubted he knew how.

"With me!" the Lieutenant ordered.

Cullen agreed. He felt sliding down the treacherous cliff side would be his undoing. No doubt he would lose his footing and tumble down like a rag doll, ending with broken bones and limbs, if not outright dead. He was nowhere as nimble or graceful as the Warden-Commander and the following rogues. The powerful archer and mage were even able to unleash their attacks on the distant foes as they flew down the earthy wall. It was surprising Hordin had gone with them, but he slid down on his back all the way, using his arms to stabilize himself. There was no grace in his descent and many rocks accompanied him.

Cullen followed Drake above the ravine, the other horses gathering behind like a natural herd. Not even Barsk tried to spit off with his "holder" no longer present. He did curse all the way though. The rugged edge eventually died to where the Warden-Lieutenant led them back into the shadows of the forest, following the downward curve of the landscape in attempts to find a way into the ravine to join their allies. They didn't know how far they needed to go, but prayed it was not far if they were needed. Cullen was concerned about the Wardens and he felt like he leaving them behind, but Drake appeared more sure than he in their capabilities. They moved with more caution than speed, looking for short cuts and safe passage. Eventually, they did locate a narrow groove that cut between two high walls downward. It was steep at times, giving the horses some trouble, but no where near as dangerous as the ravine itself.

The further they went, however, Cullen couldn't help but get a knot in his gut telling him something was wrong. Dreadfully wrong. Even Pup let out a growl of discomfort, his ears tucked back and crouched lower to the ground as if attempting to stalk something. He called out to Drake ahead of him, but his voice was silenced by the rumble of earth. The ground suddenly began to shake and quake beneath them, sending the horses in a panic - in addition to spreading fear into the riders. Rocks and dirt tumbled down upon them from the two walls pinning them in, jagged tears ripping through the earth like ravenous snakes.

"RUN!"

They kicked their horses into a frenzied gallop, racing through the rapidly crumbling land around them. They barely dodged large falling rocks, their shields offering minor protection, and the horses jumped or weaved around sudden protrusion that erupted from the quake and opening gaps. The path curved this way and then that, turning sharply as they rushed down a windy decline. They traversed the ravine wall now, their flight leading them down the narrow passage, rocks falling from above, rolling and "bouncing" off the face. A boulder crashed ahead of their fleeing party, smashing and completely destroying a portion of their walkway. They had no time to stop, no room to turn around, no chance to avoid it. The horses jumped. One by one they flew over the hole, the merchant screaming in terror, and each time one set of hooves hit the landing, it crumbled more of it away. The last two steeds didn't make it across, their wailing forms tumbling to their deaths.

The quake was following them, its unnatural creation following the will of the hidden enemy. Cullen could feel their sick eyes on him. The maleficar had led them into a trap, separating them from the main group and, more importantly, from the powerful Warden-Commander. If only he could see where he was! If he could locate the accursed mage and run him through! Drake called something out in warning, his voice muffled by the roar of the earth, and suddenly he tugged his horse sideways, leaping from the path out into the open air and down to the ground below. Without time to think, Cullen and Barsk followed, jumping just in time to escape a full mudslide of grinding rock and soil. Their horses landed hard, but kept running. They couldn't afford to stop yet, danger was still right on their heels. And then Cullen felt the tug of gravity on his backside, his horse rearing unintentionally, pulling them both down into an opening maw. Barsk screamed. The weightlessness of falling captured each of them, their cries for help swallowed by the darkness they plummeted into. Cullen watched in stricken horror, reaching helplessly for that light of day as it vanished above, his death certain.


Desolate, empty blackness grabbed him. It was hollow and cold. A vacuum of lost nothingness. There was no feeling, no caring, no purpose. Only meaningless existence.

"... up..."

Ripples in the vast bleak. Faint and pitiful. A whisper in the opaque dark. Hopelessness.

".. Cul-len…"

Echoes in the stillness. A wisp of movement. A touch of warmth.

"-len… Wake..."

A strange fixation. A stir, a purpose. It was slick, hard to grasp.

"... Wake up… Please..."

The darkness swirled to grey. The nothingness faded. There was numbness, stiffness, weight. A breath of air. Droplets, cool and refreshing. The moisture left a path of soothing sensations on his skin… Finally, a glow began to manifest into an orb of growing light. The feeling of warmth and soft comfort held his backside. And surging pain held everything else. Cullen groaned weakly as he stirred, his eyes fluttering open to see a vague shape lingering over him. The blur swayed and he fought to maintain consciousness, the unknown world spiraling around him. Another drop of water graced him, running slowly down his cheek and neck. Its touch soothed his mind, allowing him to regain control. The shadowed form above soon gained detail and color. He saw green - Brilliant, earthly green. He saw her eyes and they held him captive for the longest time. They were moist, rimmed with soft tears. He heard her gasp in relief, a sigh of air brushing over him.

"Kath-ryn?"

"Cullen." She spoke quietly, almost in a whisper. He felt her hand gently stroke his cheek, the warmth of her touch waking him, and a smile curved her full lips. "You're okay." The words were an equal message to herself as it was to him.

"What… happened?" A headache stung him then. A burning in the back of his skull. Again he groaned, his numb body once more gaining feeling.

Kathryn's smile weakened, a pause holding her back. "You fell into a trap set by the blood mage… You cracked your head on a rock, and I feared… you wouldn't wake up."

"And... Drake? The others?"

"Drake is alive, thank goodness." She sighed deeply in relief. "He is recovering, just as you are. I did what I could, but my magic can only do so much."

Cullen struggled to sit up, feeling the tingle in his previously numb arms and the burn reignite in his head. Kathryn placed a gentle hand on his bare chest, applying just enough pressure to hold him down. She looked like she wanted to say something, probably encouraging him to remain still and recover, but decided to simply smile at him instead. He watched her for a moment, noting that she was outside her armor as well, dressed in a simple blouse. His awareness became active enough to realize he was inside a pitched tent, lying atop a bed of furs and thick blankets, and the glow of a fire was just outside the closed flaps. He heard Hordin laugh in the distance, cocky and boisterous, along with the bay of two hounds. Pup was alive, and playful like usual.

"We're all okay." Kathryn said softly, as if able to read his worried thoughts. He felt her thumb stroke his exposed skin, the touch soft like silk. It began to make his heart race.

"What, became of… the maleficar?" Now his speech was impaired by fluster, instead of throbbing pain.

"Gone." She spoke with minor sharpness. "We managed to strike him down before... he..."

Kathryn glanced away, eyeing nothing in particular as she fought the returning tears. He recognized those tears as fear - fear of whatever the blood mage had in store for him and their allies. Cullen stared up at her in a measure of stun. He had never seen her cry before, and to see her in this weakened state… He lifted a hand to her face and caressed her soft cheek, the act turning her attention back to him. They locked eyes for several quiet moments, before he felt weight on his chest and barely acknowledged the closing distance between them. She leaned down and kissed him. Cullen felt his sudden surprise and fluster leave him. In fact, he may have helped lead her down. He accepted and returned the kiss equally, the hand he placed on her cheek sliding back into her weightless hair. She tasted… like sweetened yokes. It was hard to describe; all he knew was he wanted more. And she seemed more than happy to comply.

Again their lips met in gentle conflict, his arms wrapping fully around her shapely body. He felt her fingers move across his chest and her other hand get entangled in his own hair, the sensation coursing through his body like energy. He felt something lightly brush across his foot and up his shin, the sudden startle barely pulling him away from the moment. He dared to glance down, Kathryn taking the opportunity to kiss along his jawline. He saw nothing of note besides the tightness of her pants as his eyes traveled up her legs and paused on her perfectly sculpted bum. The woman quickly pulled him back to her and kissed deeply. Force was applied to their longing, she even bit his lower lip in lustful play. She had lost some of her sweet taste, but Cullen hardly cared. With her securely wrapped in his arms, he rolled, pulling her over his body and onto her back, pinning her under his weight as he fed on her generous lips. A knee separated her legs and she lifted one up his thigh, Cullen bringing a hand reflexively to hold it. He wanted nothing more than to embrace this urge. To indulge in her pleasant body. To feed this burning desire.

"Promise me..." She began, whispering sweet words between bitter kisses. "Promise me you'll stay."

Cullen slowly released his lips from her, lifting to his arms and opening his eyes to look down into those dangerous green orbs.

"Promise me… you won't let anything come between us."

Cullen stared down at her for mere seconds and he knew the answer. He recognized it all too well. He took in a deep breath and steeled himself. He stroked her face one last time before he let his hand slide down her neck, where he locked his fingers tightly in a choke hold. Startle played across her face and twitched throughout her body. Kathryn gagged, one hand reflexively grabbing his wrist in attempt to remove his grip while the other tried to push him away.

Cullen glared down at the false woman, fury and recognition alight. "No… You will not have me demon! Now get out of my head!"

The dark rings in violet seas blinked into existence, as did the pale color of her rough skin. And just as quickly as the demoness was revealed, she vanished in a puff of black smoke. Cullen felt himself falling again, the world around him melting away into nothingness. He spun in illusion, hollow darkness taking over once more, and the dull pain he felt intensified.

Cullen gasped as he woke in the real world, eyes wide open and skin cold against the stone. Agony shot across his entire body, forcing muffled screams from his lungs. He weakly hit the ground on which he lay, the act heating the pain in his side. He didn't care. Maker have mercy! He growled in furious frustration and guilt, a buried hatred returning to him. That pained him far more than his leg, his ribs, his arm, his skull… He had landed hard on his right side, a crushing weight just below the knee. He couldn't see a damn thing, but he could smell the rocky cavern coated in pitched darkness, dust caught in his nostrils. He reached down to figure out what trapped him and felt short, coarse fur and the hard leather casing of his saddle. No movement, not even air, came from the beast. She had taken the fall for him.

Swallowing a harsh curse, Cullen gave a soft prayer instead. But as he thought of his mount, other companions came to mind. "Pup? … Drake?!"

There came no response. He called for Barsk also, but again only got silence. Perhaps they had been knocked out just as he was moments ago, or worse yet, entrapped by the demoness. Living in some fake fantasy, a cruel illusion where they were nothing more than a pawn for their sinister mistress. The thought made the General growl, baring his teeth like a dog. He knew they had to be nearby, they were riding so close together he should be able to possibly reach them and wake them. He tried to stretch forward, but he immediately regretted it when smoldering pain snaked up him body, causing him to instantly recoil and hiss. There was nothing he could do in his current position, Cullen had to free himself. Steeling himself for the oncoming surge, he pushed up on the dead weight and began to pull on his leg. His hisses turned into loud agonizing screams. He could feel his skin tear and his nerves ignite, the splintered bones puncturing his sensitive tissue. After an extended draw beyond the scope of time, he finally pulled his leg free. The air that was released from his lungs was hardly of relief. Gently feeling down the length, he could feel the misalignment under his skin, but no blood or sharp protrusions. The leg was broken, the knee shattered perhaps.

Cullen slowly removed his other leg from over the horse and slid into a sitting position. His head began to spin, luckily the darkness around him dulling it to a controllable side effect, and he used his lost steed to steady himself. His elbow clanked against metal and as he felt its curved shape, he easily recognized it as his shield. He pulled it over the still warm corpse, biting through the sharp heat in his side, feeling its weight tenfold. Cullen took a moment to calm his breathing and ease the sway in his head. He tried to attune himself to his surroundings, relying on his other senses. He was underground. The cool earthy smell everywhere and the cold stone was dusted with a fine layer of dirt. He could hear faint drops of water echoing down an unseen tunnel and the minor groans of the ground still settling above him. He could feel a smooth incline near his feet, perhaps the making of a wall or just the unevenness of the floor. He remembered falling into a pit, a pit that opened right under their feet and swallowed them like a hungry maw.

Cullen crawled along the ground, moving forward - or at least the direction they were heading before they fell, and felt for his fallen comrade who was right ahead of him. For several excruciating seconds, he found nothing but loose dirt and broken rock pellets, but eventually he caught on something flexible and wrapped in metal. He cautiously examined the odd shaped object to count four armored fingers and a thumb.

"Lieutenant…" Cullen lightly breathed in relief. He had found him.

He dragged himself closer, moving to wake the older man from his torment, but as he followed up the length of the extended arm his shoulder hit solid stone. Cullen froze in place, the acknowledgement of the large boulder under his palm sinking in. Drake was dead.

Cullen prayed, having nothing else to do. "... By the will of Andraste... May you find yourself, at the Maker's side."

He closed his hand into a fist and fought his grief, using his rage to supplement it. Cullen turned back around, a bit too quickly for his body's liking, and searched for the dwarf who traveled at his rear. He fumbled over the corpse of the horse, but found the saddle empty. He searched further beyond, thinking that perhaps the stout man was thrown, but he couldn't find anything to suggest his whereabouts. With his current luck, Barsk was probably just out of his reach, displayed atop a boulder with a spray of blood undercoating him. Cullen called out in attempt that he'd hear him, that anyone would, but again he received no sign of life other than his own breath and heartbeat.

Despite the throbbing aches and searing pain striking his body like a bolt of lightning, Cullen forced himself to stand when at last he found the wall. He leaned heavily on the solid structure, keeping the weight off his useless leg, and slowly, very slowly, moved on. There was nothing for him here, nothing else he could do, he needed to find his way out and back to the Wardens. He needed to regroup and… inform them on what happened. He struggled past the rocks that buried the noble Orlesian, swallowing tears and screams alike. All he could do was hope. Hope that if he was leaving someone alive behind, that he could lead Kathryn back in time to save them. Hope that he wouldn't be trapped down here to die alone.

Time had become his enemy, dragging him through this hell with no sign of an end. Cullen traveled down this long, unbending hall of darkness with only the distant echo of water drops to lead him forward and his stubborn nature keeping him on his foot. As much as he wanted to sit down and rest, to ease his pain and mend his broken bones, he knew he couldn't afford it. As much as he believed the Wardens would search for him, he was almost certain none of them would look underground. He needed to get topside, at least there his scent would be cast out in the wind, possibly reaching the nose of any hound on the hunt. Cullen laughed weakly at the thought of digging his way out of the ground, like a waking corpse himself, to perch himself against a tree to wait out the remainder of his time until help found him. Until she returned to him and soothed his pain with her magical touch. The General fell silent as his mind trudged through such silly thoughts, but he did not shake them. He needed them. He needed something to keep him going, to find some sort of light in this penetrating darkness.

Kathryn was probably chasing down the blood mage, combating him in a frightening display of arcane power. Those who knew her back in the Circle probably wouldn't even recognize her now. She was supposed to be a healer, not a fighter. Trained in the school of Creation magic with only a few defensive spells to protect herself with. And now she was throwing Lightning bolts that could dry you inside out and Cold grasps that would leave you frozen in the height of summer. That staff was no longer a glorified walking stick, but a deadly weapon used with precision and crippling effect. She even learned how to wield a blade and handle the weight of armor. The Blight has forced her to take on a more aggressive role in terms of combat, but it did nothing to strip her need to help others.

That's why she was here, after all. Helping others. Helping Barsk, helping the people of South Reach, saving them from the tainted blood magic of a maleficar and his foul minions. She was putting her life on the line to lure that dangerous foe away. Even if she were alone, she wouldn't hesitate to draw his fire. She was a brave soul, more courageous than any mage Cullen has met. Not even Dorian, Solas, or Vivienne could compare. They'd all fall back to a more favorable position to themselves. Kathryn was her own kind of compassion, and he felt the need to feel it again. Cullen wanted to fall under her gaze once more, to be in her tender care right now. She could erase all his wounds with a simple smile, with a simple touch, with a simple act that was so natural to her. The warmth of her hands would match the warmth of her curved lips. The softness of her skin equal to the softness in her eyes… To feel the gentle touch of her fingertips caressing his broken bones and torn flesh, mending them back to health. To feel the tingle of her magic awaken every dull part of him and restore him back to glory. Cullen could almost feel her presence standing next to him, if not for…

The General snapped away from his trailing thoughts and swung his shield wide, its edge slicing through the empty air until it knocked against the stone now against his back. His heart raced and side throbbed, the sinister laughter too close for comfort as the invisible demon played.

"What's wrong, my pet? You look tired." Came the seductive voice of the Desire demon.

Cullen growled in response, shutting his mind off from the world.

"Those wounds look painful." Cullen could almost hear the smirk on her face. "You should rest… Don't worry, I'll take good care of you. Shall I let you lie in my bosom, and ease that headache of yours?"

Cullen carefully listened. Not to her words, but to her movements. He could hear her gentle swaying in the air, when she slid her hand across her skin, and those claws that padded lightly across the ground. She danced on her toes, but it was enough to give away her position. In swift motion, his blade was released from its sheath and struck forward at the demoness. It hit only air as Cullen heard her dance out of the way, laughing. He crumbled to the ground, doing his best to keep his defenses up in his vulnerable state. He had launched himself from the wall in attempts to reach her, and bit back on his tongue when weight was applied to his broken leg.

"Tsk tsk." Cullen could hear her slowly, more cautiously, circling. "My pet, you're only hurting yourself. As much as I enjoy watching you flex those delicious muscles of yours, reaching beyond hope for something you cannot obtain…" She paused in her flaunt. He could feel those cold, lust filled eyes all over him and it turned his gut. "Aren't you tired of fighting? Tired of all this pain? I could ease this burden, if you let me."

Cullen twisted in his low position, swinging his blade behind him to catch the demon practically whispering in his ear. Again, he hit nothing and she laughed. She was playing with him, teasing him with her presence, hanging that lure just in front of him only to yank it away. Oh, how much he wanted to drive his sword into that black heart.

"Come, my pet. You cannot hope to win. Just give up and give in to what you have locked away." Cullen tightened his grip on his hilt, glaring into the shadows. "I know what you want. What your heart truly desires. It shall be yours..." Her voice shifted to one far too familiar, "Cullen…" Kathryn's voice. "All you need to do, is welcome me in."

"Go to hell."

"Mmm… Such tenacity. I love it." She moaned in delight. "Won't you give me more? Let me feel that heat of yours."

It was infuriating hearing her say those words using Kathryn's voice. To endure the seduction of falsehood. He could not deny the wrong thoughts that plagued him. The illusion of feeling her soft skin, to stroke her naked form. To taste her lips. To hear her pleasure. To lie atop her in sin.

"That's it, my pet, give in to what you desire. There is no shame in relishing in what you deserve."

Cullen felt himself slipping. His defenses failing him. A hand touched his shoulder and it slowly slid down his chest, it's touch somehow bypassing his armor. A second hand mimicked the act, ending with her hugging him from behind and he could feel her breath upon his neck, making his hair stand on end. He could see her now. That beautiful mage who captured his heart so long ago. His eyes met with hers and they begged for forgiveness. The demoness Kathryn gracefully slid in front of him, not once losing eye contact, and knelt down to his level. She purred oh so softly, bringing a hand to stroke his jaw.

"Kiss me, my pet." She subtly demanded. "Caress my body."

Cullen hesitantly placed a hand upon her hip, feeling the warmth of exposed skin. And he leaned in slowly to capture that desire.

"Plunge yourself into me. Claim me as your-!"

The sword plunged deep inside her alright, the blade dug all the way to the hilt where her blood oozed over his hand. It was black and had no temperature of its own, the liquid thick like oil. Cullen glared at the gasping demoness, the burning fire bright with disgust and hate.

"As I said," He growled without mercy. "You will not have me, demon."

Cullen twisted the blade in her wilting form and sliced her open. He watched as the image of the mage faded to a pale horror, eyes dark and hollow, and hair of fire dying as she collapsed into the darkness. There was a soft thud, followed by silence. Blissful silence. He did not know how long he knelt on the ground, hovering over the unseen body in case it were to rise again, but no longer did whispers or impure thoughts worm its way into his mind. No longer did the air feel heavy or cold. No longer did his pain remain dormant. Cullen hissed as he nurtured his crippled leg, now feeling the pant cloth soaked with thick warmth. He feared moving now, else risk making it worse and perhaps unamendable.

Boff!

Cullen spun his head to the side, hearing the echo of the sound, and glared down into that emptiness with fervor. Was that Pup? He was alive?! Hope began to grow, but as he listened for that Boff to return, he heard nothing. There came more silence with only the faint plop of water droplets. He felt his heart sink, that hope fading. Another illusion. Another lie.

The General poked the ground before him with the tip of his blade, hearing it tink! lightly against the stone. The body was gone. Either she returned to the Fade where she belongs, or she was not yet dead and he left a fool. With a disgruntled huff, Cullen slowly crawled backwards on the rough ground, dragging his leg as he sought the wall once more. He ignored the bellowing pain the best he could, trying to focus his attention on getting back up and out of this blighted place! The stubborn man pressed against the cold stone and inched his way back to his one working leg, trying to not move or touch the other. Slowly he began to limp along, practically sliding his foot against the ground instead of walking. It was exhausting, his chest hurting from his labored breaths. At one point his vision even blurred, risking a fall, but he rested his forehead against the cool rock for a moment to numb the threat. It seemed to work, but something else soon caught his weary senses.

A light. It was a soft golden hue, though it shone brightly in the opaque darkness he had become accustomed to. It stung his eyes, even at this distance, returning the blur and the dangerous sway. He fought to control it, gripping the sword he dared not to release in fear of the demon's return, feeling the tough hemp and hearing its sound under his glove. He tried to focus, to see through the blinding effect. He saw a form walking through a distant horizontal tunnel, the light outlining them from behind. He saw the glint of armor and the calm flare of a cloak.

Who was this person? Was it his rescue or another trap set by the demon? His hope wasn't as strong as it was earlier. Should he risk calling out to them if it were the demon, or another one? Or perhaps even the maleficar himself. Heh. Maker have mercy on him if it were so. He was in no shape to deal with any mage, much less a corrupted one. Cullen remained silent for the time, trying to remain hidden in the depth of the shadows as he assessed this new body. His sword betrayed him. The form turned in his direction when the light reflected ever so softly off its edge. Cullen cursed lightly under his breath, readying himself for yet another trial of suffering. If he could run he would have already, but he had no choice but to stand his ground as the figure approached. And then a second form appeared; shorter, longer, bulkier.

"Boff!" That bark.

"Pup?" Cullen barely breathed.

"Boff boff! Boff!" The hound ran towards him, the figure in back picking up speed as well.

As his vision slowly returned, the light growing brighter, its aura finally washing away the darkness that held him so tight, Cullen let out a relieved breath and let his shoulders slack. It was Pup, he was alive! And she was real this time.

"Cullen!" Kathryn gasped.

The woman nearly paled to a horrible reminder and her eyes widening in shocked concern. But they were true. The color was real. The demon was way off in reflecting the brilliance in those orbs. Cullen tried to push himself from the wall, but hadn't the strength. Both sword and shield fell to the ground, clanking at his feet, and Pup nearly bound up on him. The powerful mabari had enough mind not to, thankfully, as he quickly noticed the man's poor state. Kathryn rushed to his side and that was when he collapsed. He fell into her waiting arms and they both toppled to the floor. Cullen barely recognized the cloth and metal pressed against his face, or the sweet musk of her body and the ash still upon it. Not even the whines of his own hound truly registered. All he knew was the safe feeling of being in her care again. His eyes shut to welcome peaceful rest, while he felt that cool refreshing mist fall on his sore body and numb away the pain. There came some movement, he felt his head sway and a weightlessness as he was lifted.

"We got you brother, we got you."

Hordin's words were faint in his mind, and they were the last he heard before he slipped into merciful slumber.