Disclaimer: I do not own any nams in this story excpet for one and even then, i'm sure you can figure out who it is.
There is a song lyric in this peice, if you can name it woithout using google, you get a gold star. enjoy and comment please.
On the way to Denerim, our brave warriors have stopped for the night to make camp. All the tents have been set up and the fires started. Theresa was walking across camp, still in her new/used juggernaut armor, carrying a rather full bag. She stopped in front of Morrigan. "Hey, can I brow your pedestal?"
Morrigan turned and gave her scowl. "And why should I do that?"
Theresa furrowed her brow. "Cause I need it?"
Morrigan crossed her arms. "Because you need it." Theresa nodded. "You realize that you have put me on the midnight shift with Zevron since Haven."
"Yea, do you know why?"
"Enlighten me."
"Because you fell asleep on your watch when we were in Haven. That's why. Do you feel as though you have learned your lesson?"
"I didn't realize there was a lesson to be had."
Theresa shrugged her shoulders. "There's always a lesson in everything we do. So about that pedestal?"
"What of it?"
"May I use it?"
"What for."
Twenty questions really? Theresa dropped her bag and opened the flap. "You remember when we stopped early for lunch?"
"Yes. I was quite curious about that."
Theresa reached into her pack and pulled out a handful of wheat. "I saw a farm up ahead and decided to…acquire a few items from the farmer."
Morrigan raised an eyebrow and smirked. "You stole wheat. My my Warden, you do live the dangerous life."
"Well, Zev helped me get a pig and a few apples."
Morrigan dropped her jaw. "A pig. What for?"
"Don't worry about it. Now just give me your pedestal or you can help me make bread."
Morrigan reached into her pack, pulled out two pedestals and sat down beside her. She passed one to Theresa and helped her turn wheat into flour. They were quite for a long time, only the scrapings of the marble was all they heard. But Theresa heard something else. The familiar foot falls of a comrade. She looked up and saw Alistair heading into the forest. They made eye contact, Theresa looked away, smiled and blushed. She continued to smile as she worked.
Morrigan sighed. "I can't take it."
Theresa looked at her. "Take what?"
"That ridiculous grin you're wearing. You realize that you haven't stopped smiling since you and that idiot exchanged glances."
Her smile grew wider. "Does it offend?"
"It annoys."
"I'm sorry to hear that." Theresa was hoping that she wouldn't notice the blush rising in her cheeks. Theresa returned to her work.
"One can only hope that his bed manners are better than his conversations."
Theresa eyes got wide and blush ran down her neck and ears. "No no no its not like that."
Morrigan chuckled. "Thes, we all saw you two crawling out of your tent two nights ago and how you two do it still."
Theresa held her hands up. "No no it's just cuddling, I swear it." Morrigan raised an eyebrow.
"I am not here to judge, you should do what you can to take your mind off of our current situations. Like the blight."
Theresa covered her face with her hands. "It's not like that."
"Of course."
Theresa went back to scraping the wheat into a powder. They were quite for half the bag until Morrigan kept looking at Theresa. Her eyes were full of some emotion that Theresa hasn't ever seen before. "Is something on your mind Morrigan?"
Morrigan stopped what she was doing and reached in her pack to pull out a book. "Do you remember this?"
Theresa looked at the book. It was purple and ragged. "Yea, I stole…commandeered it from the First Enchanter at the Circle. What's up?"
"It is my mothers Grimore. I had hoped that it would reveal some of her spells but alas, it was her journal. She describes how she has lived for as long as she has."
Theresa sighed. "Let me guess, blood magic and eating babies."
"That is closer to the truth than you might think."
Liliana was walking by and noticed that Theresa and Morrigan were getting close. Knowing that Morrigan was a vile creature, Liliana took a few steps closer to listen.
"Is there a time frame on this or, simply have to take care of it now?"
"No there is no time frame. I just hope that it is just done."
Theresa nodded. "The next time we stop by Redcliff, I'll take a small party with me to end your fears. You have my word."
"Thank you, Theresa."
She smiled at Morrigan as she saw Liliana approach. "Hey, want to help make flour?"
"I suppose." Liliana sat on the other side of Theresa. "What's it for?"
"Morrigan, do you have another pedestal?" She reached in her pack and pulled out another and passed it to Liliana. "We're making bread. Lili."
Liliana was confused. "What for? We will be in Denrim in a few days, why not stock up there?"
Theresa took Liliana's hand. "In all the time that you have known me, do I strike you as the kind of person who willingly buys things?" Liliana thought about it for a moment. She remembered one time when Theresa killed a bandit, she took his dagger from his dying hands and claimed it as her own.
Liliana smiled. "True." She took a few grains of wheat and started to scrape it. "So, what were you two talking about?"
Morrigan answered first. "Her love life."
Theresa blushed. "Or lack there of."
Liliana grinned an evil grin. "Are you sure you're lacking. I distinctly remember watching you come out of your tent this morning only to have Alistair soon follow."
Theresa sucked her teeth and scraped harder. "Maker's breath, I hate you two."
They both just smiled and went back to making the flour. Liliana spoke first. "So how is he?"
"She says it's not like that."
"It's not." Theresa protested.
"Oh really?" Liliana chirped. "Are you sure? I could have sworn that I heard giggling last night."
"He…tickled me."
"Tickled you did he?" Morrigan was loving that she could offset her friend.
Theresa clinched her jaw. "Yes."
"And where did he tickle you?" Liliana was sure to put emphasis on the 'where.'
Theresa was quite for a moment. "I don't' want to play anymore."
"What? Are we playing?" Morrigan looked up to Liliana. "Are we playing?"
Liliana looked to Theresa. "I think she thinks we are Morrigan."
"Aww, it hurts my feelings so Theresa."
Just then, Alistair came back from the forest, he looked clean like he just took a bath. He looked over to see if Theresa was still with Morrigan. Only this time, she looked helpless while Liliana and Morrigan were watching him with great interest as he crossed. Both smiling a vicious smile. Theresa looked up to see him. She gave him a helpless look, he had the thought to go over there and save her but the way that Morrigan and Liliana was looking at him made him want to keep his distance. He gave a simple wave and kept walking. Theresa shot him a face of utter disbelief as he walked by. She folded her arms angrily and muttered "Some knight." Only to have Liliana hear it and say loudly enough for Alistair to hear "So, he is your knight?" Alistair looked back to see Theresa hitting herself in the head with a fist. He smiled as he walked. Best not to interfere with the chats of women. He snuck away so that he could hear what they were talking about by hiding behind Liliana's tent.
Liliana knew where he was so she got down to the juicy gossip. "What are your intentions with him?"
"Excuse me?"
"What are your intentions? Do plan on marrying him or just stringing him along for the ride?"
Theresa was quite for a moment. "I can't marry him."
"Why not?"
"Good job I say" Morrigan
"He…he deserves a queen and I'm…I'm just a soldier. I'm a Grey Warden."
"So is he."
"I know, but…he has …" Theresa sighed. "He has bigger and better things to do. He will be king. That will negate his Warden Oath. He may like to think that he will forever be a Warden, but he'll be trapped by the courts." She was quite for a long time. "I wouldn't be surprised if I have to rebuild the order on my own."
"I'm sure you won't have to do that." Liliana tried to comfort her.
"He'll never get the chance to leave the castle. He will spend all his time looking over battle plans, signing laws, going though the books, making treaties, he won't have time for me. He deserves a wife that will be able to stand by him and not have to be always gone to recruit new wardens, kill all the Darkspawn. I'm just a soldier Lili. What can I do that would benefit him?"
"That can't be how you actually think of this?"
"We're tied together, Liliana. I told him that I love him." Liliana and Morrigan both took a gasp of breath. "But…it's getting hard to know where my emotions stop, and the curse takes over. I want him by my side at all times, but I also want him physically. Which is the curse and which is me." Theresa felt the tears rise. "If I hadn't of been so selfish, if I could've just let him go, this wouldn't be a problem. Our lives wouldn't be tied. He could go and live a normal life and I could go my separate way. I've damned him. I've damned us all. I wish that I could be all that he deserves, but the truth is, I'm not. I'm the embodiment of everything he should avoid in a woman. But…I don't want to let him go."
Morrigan was the first to speak. "There are chansent who do not own a single thing. They give up all their belongings every year so that they will never know what it means to sacrifice or the pain of loss. In fact, they give up their wives and children as well, so that if they die, no one will mourn their passing."
Theresa wiped a tear away with the back of her hand. "I'm not seeing what that has to do with the situation Morrigan."
"All I am saying is, they are the true cowards. If you love that idiot as much as you say you do, then you should take it for as long as you can. As much as a dolt that he is, he is…ugh, kind hearted. Even if you do not last, it is better than wondering what could have been. Knowing the pain you feel is from love. And love, as I am told, is the best feeling in the world. You are willing to protect him, correct?"
"With my life…well, maby not my life because that will kill him too, but as far as I'm able to."
"You are willing to sacrifice everything for him, correct?"
"Yes."
"Then you must tell him that this relationship is only until he is king where he will find a wife and take up his kingly duties. Believe me when I say this, when he becomes king, I will leave Ferelden."
The three women shared a smile. "Liliana, were you ever in love?"
Liliana all of a sudden took a great interest in her grains. "Once, but she betrayed me."
"She?" Theresa and Morrigan were looking at her.
Liliana smiled. "You think that love can only be between a man and a woman?" Theresa smiled sheepishly. "You do not need to cower from me in the river, Theresa. You are beautiful but I like my women to be…"
"Femine?" Morrigan finished. Lili smiled and nodded.
Theresa shook it off. "What did she do?"
"She made me a criminal against Orlay. That's why I ran here. I took shelter in the only place that would have me. And I became a sister. The amount of love that was in my heart was slowly pushed out by hate and the chantry taught me that there is no room for hate in life. Only acceptance for the life of all." Liliana was quite for a moment. "I still find myself thinking about her though. She was smart, beautiful, deadly, and a great love maker to boot. But, I often think of the memories that we had together of just simple things. Waking up to her face, having morning tea at the table, shopping for shoes," her eyes were lost in memory, "the way her hair looked when the wind blew." Lili bit her bottom lip. "She was the best and worst thing that ever happened to me."
Theresa reached into her pack for more grains only to find that the three of them finished them all off. "Do you know where she is?"
"No."
Theresa wiped her tears and took the three pedestals. "Thank you for your inputs. But, I must make the bread now. Thank you for your help." Theresa got up and slung her bag on her and made her way over to the fire. Liliana and Morrigan watched her as she left only to stop midstride and look heartbroken.
Morrigan leaned over to Liliana. "How long did you know that he was there?"
"The whole time." She said flatly.
Morrigan smiled. "Is that how you intended the conversation to go?"
"No."
"Delightful." Liliana shot her a cold look. "For him." Morrigan got up and retired for the evening.
Theresa couldn't move. He was sitting right there, he heard everything. He heard how she felt, how she wanted him but knew that she could never have him. He heard Morrigans and Lilianas ideas of love. She really was just bringing him along for the ride. He was her comfort in all this darkness. He was loved but would be faced with getting shunned and rejected again.
He had his elbows on his knees, his face was emotionless. "What's the watch schedule for tonight?"
His voice was emotionless.
She needed to do the same. "Same as it's always been."
He nodded his head and went to their, his tent. She watched him as he walked away from her. She watched as he never looked back. She watched everything she had grown to love walk away from her. Theresa fought back the tears that wanted to rain down and walked to the fire. She set down the flour and walked to the cow to get some milk and take some eggs from the chickens. She returned to the fire to find Zevron already greasing the pans. He looked up at her, smiled, and went back to greasing the pans. She sat down and started to mix the ingredients. Zevron kicked his legs in front of him and watched her work. He watched her as she carefully measured out the milk and eggs to proportions. He watched as she kneaded the dough. He watched her carefully pull apart the dough into flat pieces of bread and place them on the hot pans. He watched her wait. He watched her fidget in place. He watched as her face never changed but her mind was constantly thinking. He watched her flip the bread so that it may cook evenly. He watched her bite her nails. She looked up to see that he was watching her. She dropped her gaze. "Thank you for greasing the pans."
"T'is nothing." He watched as she removed the flat bread and place it aside and watched as she made another one. "That is an odd looking bread. What is it?"
"It's flat bread." Her voice was emotionless. "I used to make it all the time for my men back in Highever."
Zevron raised an eyebrow. "You had many men?"
"I used to be a captain remember?"
"Ah yes, I forgot. Forgive me."
"There's nothing to forgive so it should be forgotten." He watched her make bread five more times until the early morning. He said his farewell and retired. Theresa still had dough for a few more. When it was done she would go to sleep. But for right now, she just wanted to close her eyes. She laid down for a moment and saw Tegan again. She heard him whisper his banters. She felt him at her neck. She shot up awake. She looked around her and rubbed her face. The bread was burned. She rolled her eyes and started again. She placed it in the pan and rubbed her eyes. She found a stick and threw half of it into the fire. She finished making the bread and placed it all on a plate and stood up. She popped her back and turned around. She stopped at what she saw. Alistair was on his watch, watching her. He was sitting outside of the tent in his full armor. His eyes never left her. She found her courage to walk past him into the tent. She placed the plate down and went though her sack. She found all her presents and got started. She found the demon statue that she found in the forest and left it on Alistair's bed roll as well as a piece of bread. She looked at the statue again and smiled. She knew he would love it, but she wondered if he would like it now. She collected herself and left the tent with her goodies. She made her way around the whole camp. She gave Morrigan a silver broach, a tribal necklace, and a piece of bread and left it on top of her pack. She made her way to Liliana's and Wynnes tent. She gave Liliana an Andraste's grace, a necklace that had the chantry's symbol on it and Wynne got a scroll called the Rose of Orlay. Theresa was sure she wouldn't mind it, seeing as how she took it from the First Enchanter. She left them both a piece of bread and left. She made her way to Zevron and Stens tent. She left the dalish gloves on one side and the half burnt stick on the other so Sten wouldn't have black fingers when he drew. She left her bread and walked over to Ali. She lifted her head and smelled the plate. Her tail started wagging nonstop. Theresa took one piece and gave the rest to Ali. She stood up and ate the bread in a matter of moments. Theresa smiled as Ali did so. When Ali was done, she looked up to Theresa, panting, watching the last piece of bread that she held. Theresa took a bite of it and Ali lowered her head. Theresa rubbed her back and motioned for to follow her. Theresa finished the bread before she went back inside the tent and found two pieces of rope. She exited and walked to Bodens kart. She untied the pig and led it to the outside of the camp. She tied it to a tree and then tied up it's feet. The pig started to squeal but Theresa withdrew her dagger and slit its throat. She said the final prayer and hung the pig up upside down to let the blood fall out. Theresa started to chop down threes and Alistair was beginning to wonder if she was alright. Theresa took the trees that she chopped down and headed over to the fire. She set up the wood in a pit style. The last thing she needed was the pig. Unfourtunantly, it took her and Zevron to carry it back to camp and even then, they barely got away. Theresa looked down to Ali. "Think you can carry that thing?" Ali shook her head, pieces of slobber went flying everywhere. She heard a movement and saw Alistair standing up and walking toward the pig. Theresa smiled and followed him, grabbing a pot as she went. When Alistair reached the pig, he withdrew his small dagger and cut open the stomach and the entrails started to fall out. Theresa was quickly there with a pot in hand to catch it all. They made eye contact for a moment before they looked away. Alistair removed the anus and threw it into the forest. He found the pike that Theresa was going to use and ran it though the pig.
"It works better if we just tie up the feet around the pike." Theresa whispered.
Alistair looked at her. "True. But you also need to create a ventilation for heat to travel."
Theresa smiled. "True." Alistair removed the pike and they tied the pig to the pike. Theresa cut it from the tree and they carried it over to the fire and set it down to cook. They watched as the hair on the pig was burned off. They both sat down and watched the pig. Ali sniffed the air and hid her nose. Theresa hugged her knees close to her chest. "Happy Holy Birthday."
Theresa looked over to see Alistair have his face in his palm. "Maker, is that today?" Theresa nodded. Alistair leaned back and smiled. "Well, that does explain a lot."
"How so?"
He laughed quietly. "Well, for one, why you were sneaking around camp tonight with random gifts and bread, and for two, why you brought a pig." Theresa shrugged and looked into the fire. "Do you know the story behind the holiday?"
"Yes, but I want to hear your version."
Alistair smiled and sat up. "Well, you see, the Maker was growing tired of ruling the golden city alone. He wanted someone who understood him instead of feared him. So, for a thousand years, he searched Theadas for the perfect match for him. He searched and searched and he could never find the partner that would complete him. So one day, he decided that he would simply create one. So he did. He created the perfect woman for himself. She was beautiful, smart, she could cook, everything that a man even a god would desire. But, she lacked personality and history. Without it, she was a shell of a woman. So he destroyed her and went searching again. He came across a woman, she was one of his most beloved followers. She had a heart of passion and mercy. But she was weak willed. So he continued his search. He came across a general. His armies were the most feared in the land. He was intelligent and strategic. He ruled his land with a just and iron fist. Then the maker had an idea. He influenced the man to meet the woman. So one day, the general had an urge to attack a foreign land. When his armies landed, the first person that he saw was the woman. The general fell madly in love and married the woman. On the night that they conceived their marriage, the maker conceived his wife. The general said it was divine will for him to conceive an heir so quickly, and in doing so, his people brought presents for the child in hopes that he will grow strong. The general received swords, toys, food, cloth, land, animals, anything that a family would need. On the day of the child's birth, the general was astonished that the maker had given him a daughter instead of a son. The general made up his mind right there, he would raise her to be his son and named her Andraste. Old Anderfelds for daughter of the sun. And I'm sure you know the rest." Alistair looked over at her and smiled.
"I think I like your version better than the Chantrys."
"You think so? I mean it's not as embellished as they do it, but I guess you get the story."
"I like the fact that it was under three hours."
They both shared a laugh. Alistair ran his hand through his hair. "Listen, about tonight. I'm sorry if I acted like an ass." Theresa looked at him. "It's just that…"he sighed an looked down. "You're the first person that I've ever loved. It hurt when you said that I could do better. But…" He looked up and met her gaze. "You're perfect. You're everything that I've ever wanted a woman to be. You're cunning, resourceful, beautiful, you can cook, always a bonus." Theresa smiled. "But…you question your emotions and strengths. You blame what is natural on the spell, by the way, you calling it a curse," Alistair lifted his hand to his heart, "ow. But moving on, and while I don't want to be without you, I know that if…if I become…"he swallowed hard, "king, then I know that it is only you that I want to rule beside me."
"Alistair…"
"Wait please, you are probably right, I will never get to see the outside of the castle, but, as long as one of us can rule, I don't see a problem. Maybe except for the whole heir thing."
Theresa looked confused. "What heir thing?"
"Didn't I tell you? Damn I forgot again. Well, along with being able to sense the darkspawn, nighmares of the archdemon, and dying after thirty years, it's difficult for people with the taint to have kids, let alone the ethical reasons."
Theresa was in shock. She released her knees and touched her stomach. Sadness and regret wept over her. "I will never have children?" Ali rested her head on Theresa's knees. Theresa now knew what it felt like to unable to give birth.
Alistair wanted to beat himself for telling her that. It's so obvious that she wanted children, every woman does. Why would she be any different? He looked down and swallowed her pain. "No."
Theresa looked up to the pig and gave a slight chocking laugh. "It would appear that joining the Grey Wardens has pretty much ended every dream I have ever had." She sighed and smiled. "However, it did save me from living with fear every day."
"You realize that we kill darkspawn everyday right? That our life span is shrinking every time we fight?"
She turned to look at him. "I was afraid that I would be forced to marry a man that I didn't know. That I didn't love. I was afraid that I would be locked in a castle somewhere, suffocating from the mortar and stones. I was afraid that I would have to give up who I really was." He scooted closer to her and wrapped an arm around her shoulders. She rested her head on his shoulder.
He was quiet for a moment. "How many did you want? Kids, I mean."
Theresa thought about it. She remembered her dream with the sloth demon. Not the lie that she told everyone about how she had to kill Duncan, but with Alistair. "Three. Two girls and a boy."
Alistair nodded. "Sounds like the life."
"So what would you do if you weren't crowed as king?"
"Oh, you know, roam the country side, scaring little darkspawn into their deaths." He looked down on her and smiled. "Honestly? I want to farm."
Theresa laughed. "What? I'm sorry but it's hard to imagine."
"Don't laugh. Dirt washes off easier than blood you know. Besides, I would be self proficient. Working the land, harvesting crops, maybe grain so that I eat your delicious bread every day. Is that so bad?"
Theresa thought about him, pushing a plow behind a bull. Shirtless, tanning in the sun, watching his sweat trickle down his muscles and face. "Now that I think about it, no. Not bad at all." Theresa felt the smile rip across her face.
"You were thinking about me being shirtless weren't you?"
Theresa looked at him. "How did you…"
"I've seen that smile before."
Theresa hung her head in defeat. She had a witty comeback and popped her head back up. "Yea, well it's not like you don't imagine me topless." He didn't respond. "Don't you?" He looked up and gazed to the right. He was wearing his goofy grin again. "You're doing it right now aren't you?"
"mmmhmmm." She slapped him in his chest but was deflected by his huge templar armor. He looked back down to her, his eyes a new shade of playful. He gently lifted her chin to meet his and kissed her lips. Theresa held her breath as her heart accelerated.
Something moved in the bushes behind them. Theresa instinctively put her hand on her dagger and looked toward the noise. Alistair did the same and Ali was alert. It was growing closer. They both stood up and were ready to make their battle cries to wake the others. A man appeared out of the bushes. He was a lanky man with long, autumn orange hair. Theresa motioned for Alistair to sheath his sword even though her hand never left her dagger at her side. She took a few steps toward the man, Ali at her side the whole time. "Stop right there." She held her had forward, palm out. He looked up and did as he was told. "Who are you? Why are you in my camp?" Theresa loved her captain voice; it made her sound confident even when she wasn't.
"My name is Livi Dryden. I'm looking for the Grey Wardens."
"Well, you found the wrong camp. Turn around and leave."
The man squinted his eyes. "Well, maybe you could help me, the people of Redcliff and the Circle of Magi described them as one female with long black hair wielding a long sword and dagger and a male templar with short blonde hair wielding a long sword and shield."
"Well, you got the wrong camp. I have short hair." Theresa held up her bangs for evidence.
Livi looked behind them. They were roasting a whole pig. "Well, any chance that you could harbor a hungry man on The Holy Birthday. If you could give me full stomach, I will be on my way."
"You'll leave now."
Alistair stepped toward her. "Let's at least feed him. It is The Holy Birthday. The day where we honor our fellow man. What could he do, he doesn't even look armed."
"It could be a trap."
"Oh, look at you, you think a bird flying though a air is a trap."
"I'm cautious."
"You're paranoid." Alistair stepped out in front of her. "Step forward ser." He did take a few steps. "Alright, hold it." Alistair unsheathed his sword and walked toward the man.
Theresa couldn't do this. She unsheathed her dagger and walked to him, her dagger poised on his throat. "Hands on the back of your head." He did as she said. She stepped behind him and searched him for weapons. Just a simple dagger that was at his waist was all she found. She released him and sheathed her dagger picking up his. "What did you say your name was?"
"Livi Dryden."
"Well, Livi Dryden, the pig isn't done yet so why don't you tell us about yourself. Starting with why you're looking for the Grey Wardens." She motioned for him to step forward toward the fire.
"Well, you see, I'm old friends with Duncan." Theresa and Alistair both tripped over their feet.
"We really have to up root that tree." Theresa said. "You were saying."
"Like I said, we were old friends. And he promised to help me find the secret of the Soldier's Peak. You see, my great great great grandmother was a Warden and it's said that since she went against the king, her name was stricken form the noble records so my family has been scrounging for money until we eventually became merchants. All Dryden's will do what we can to keep our heads high."
"And what did Duncan promise you again?" they all made it toward the fire and sat down.
"He promised to help me recertify my family's name. To bring honor back to the Drydens."
Theresa looked to Alistair. They exchanged glances real quick. Theresa looked back to Livi. "Do you have a map of this area?"
"Yes I do." He pulled a piece of valluume out of his side pocket and passed it back to her. The first part looked like a catacomb of tunnels that eventually led to a building. "What's in this building?"
"Don't know. Duncan thought that it might hold documents that pertained to the Wardens. He said that we would go after Ostogar but I haven't seen him." Theresa turned the paper over. She saw some handwriting and held it up for Alistair to see. He nodded. "Livi, to honor our fallen friend, we would like to take you to Soldier's Peak."
"You knew Duncan? Truly?"
Theresa folded up his map and gave it back to him. "Yes, he's the one that made us Wardens."
Livi looked shocked. "But you said…"
"Are you aware of the price on our heads?"
Livi looked at both of them. "So you cut your hair to avoid suspension?"
Theresa looked to Alistair. "Yea, sure, why not?"
"So you'll really take me?"
Theresa smiled. "Yes. We'll take you. However, we have plans to stop in Denerim first and resupply."
"I'm a merchant, what do you need?"
"What can you do with dragon scales?"
Livi face went to disappointment. "Nothing I'm afraid. But Wade could do it."
"Wade?"
"He's a blacksmith who specializes in armor. His shop is in Denerim. I can take you if you like?"
Theresa smiled at him. "Thank you ser. Can I get you something to drink?"
"No thank you miss I mean Warden."
Theresa smiled at him. "Theresa is fine."
He smiled at her as she filled her mug full of tea. She filled another for Alistair and passed it to him. The sun was rising and the three of them watched it slowly rise in this holy day. Theresa was cutting up the organs of the pig to make the stew when out of nowhere, she hears Lili squeal. Theresa was instantly on her feet and ready to take care of what was in her tent. Lili came crawling out, then went into a run toward Theresa. She gave her a hug and thanked her. Theresa was a little uncomfortable due to the fact that Liliana was only wearing her small clothes.
"Thank you, oh thank you Theresa. I had completely forgotten."
"Umm…Lili…"
Liliana pulled away from her. "Yes?"
Theresa looked around the camp. "One, we have a guest. Meet Livi Dryden."
Liliana turned to look. "Hello."
He couldn't muster any words.
"Two," Theresa continued, "You woke up the whole camp."
Liliana turned around to see everyone awake and ready to kill her for waking them up.
"And three, you're only in your small clothes."
Liliana looked down at herself. She looked back up to meet Theresa's gaze. "You like?"
Theresa rolled her eyes and pushed her back to her tent. "Get dressed." Liliana giggled as she crawled back into her tent and got dressed.
"It's alright guys. Go back to sleep. Lili get's easily excited, you know that." Everyone looked groggy but was awake enough to see the pig and the stranger. "It's okay, he's a friend. Go back to sleep guys." They all crawled back into their tents and went to sleep except for Liliana who came out eating her bread in one hand, flower in the other, and the necklace around her neck. She skipped over to Theresa in her armor with her weapons strapped to her back. Kind of down played the idea that they were meant to be scary. Liliana came and sat down next to Theresa. Her mouth full of bread. She smiled at her while she chewed. Theresa gave her skeptical look. "How did you know it was me?"
Liliana stole her tea and swallowed her bread. "You told me yesterday that you were making bread. And you and Zevron carried that pig here. SO who else could it have been? Alistair? I still would have hugged you."
Theresa smiled. "Well, that's nice, sister."
Alistair snickered. "Yea, a sister that forgot today was Andraste's birthday."
Liliana shot him a cold look. "So what Templar."
Theresa triumphed them all. "Don't feel bad." She leaned in and whispered in Liliana's ear, "He forgot too." Liliana smirked and Alistair looked into his mug.
Liliana looked back at Theresa, "I can't believe that you remembered." Theresa looked confused. "The flower?"
"Oh yea. Well, I know how important it is to remember your family." Liliana smiled and ate some more of the bread.
Zevron slowly emerged from his tent. Fully dressed and ready for battle. He wondered toward the sitting group, eating the bread and holding the gloves. "What are these?"
Theresa looked up. "Dalish gloves, just like your moms right?" Zevron choked a little and closely inspected them. Then a huge smile came across his face. "You look surprised Zev."
He looked at her. His eyes were twinkling with real emotion. "Do I? Maybe it's because I am. Thank you. No one has ever gotten me a gift before without wanting something in return. What can I do for you? Cook dinner, back massage, an amazing unforgettable night?" Alistair was glaring at him but Theresa just held up her hand.
"It's a gift Zev. Just enjoy 'em." He smiled and put them on. Perfect fit. Amazing that seeing as how she found it buried under a pile of bones. She smiled as he enjoyed them. He continued to eat the bread as he giddily stepped to the forest edge.
Liliana looked back at Alistair. "What did you get?"
Alistair moved his gaze to Theresa, full of wonder and excitement. Theresa rolled her eyes. "It's on your bedroll." He shot up and walked very quickly to his tent. Theresa went back to cutting the organs.
"So what did you get him?"
"A statue. I don't know if he's going to like it though."
"Why?"
"Well, the last time I gave him a statue, it had personal meaning. That one is a demon made of onyx. But if anything, his second award is food, so it should be okay." They both laughed. Theresa got serious for a moment, he said that she made delicious bread. Has he already eaten it or did he assume? If he did already eat it, then he would know what he got. Theresa furrowed her brow at Alistair's odd actions. Theresa looked over at Livi. He looked left out. She saw his dagger that she removed from him. It looked old worn down by sharpening. She stood up and opened up Bodens kart that held her 'hold on to' items. She found a new dagger that she pickup off of some bandit. She closed the kart and went back to Livi. She gave it to him, pommel side. "Here. Yours looks old and depleted." Livi eyes glowed as he took the blade.
"Thank you Theresa."
She smiled and retook her place by the organs. She just finished cutting them all into bite size pieces when she was lifted up off her rear into the air. Without thinking, she sank the knife she was using into the side of her attacker. She was instantly dropped and turned to see her attacker only to covered her mouth. Alistair had taken off his armor and now had a blade in his side. "WYNNE!" Theresa yelled. Alistair was looking at her with disbelief and slight humor. She tried to set him down gently. She removed her shoulder plates and straddled his hip. "Bite into my shoulder, it will help the pain." She put her hand on the handle and he flinched. She pulled his head onto her shoulder and grabbed the handle. "One, two, three." She pulled the knife out and felt him bite hard into her shoulder. She felt the skin break as he bit into her. The second it was out, they felt Wynne's magical warmth.
Theresa immediately got off and rolled Alistair onto his good side and exposed the wound. Wynne took over. "Theresa, get some health potions and a numbing salve. Liliana get the sewing kit." They both moved quickly to help him. In a matter of moments, Wynne was sewing him up. He was biting his lower lip and was bleeding. Theresa took his hand and squeezed hard to make him do the same. But he wouldn't. She got down to his level and kissed him. She could taste his blood but it was better than him biting through it. He stopped biting and kissed her back hard. He needed a distraction and she was ready to oblige.
Wynne finally finished and cut the final stitch. "Okay, it's done. You two can stop now."
Theresa pulled away. "I'm sorry. I'm so so sorry. You surprised me and I just reacted. I'm so sorry."
He looked at her and smiled. "Theresa, it's okay, the numbing salve was working the whole time."
"I…what?"
He rolled onto his back and started laughing only quickly stop at the pain. "Hey, I got to get something out of it."
"Then why were you biting you lip?"
Alistair placed one hand on his shoulder, wearing a smug look. "You see, when I bit into you, it hurt me too. And the pain is just so painful, that I had to do something."
Theresa sucked her teeth. Damnit, I forgot that again. Damnit. Theresa looked up at Wynne. "Is there any ointment that he will need?"
Wynne laid down some bandages and a flask. "Just put this" the flask stuff "on first before you mend him up. And Alistair…"
"Yess Wynne?"
"Do not, under any circumstances, scratch it."
He smiled. "Yes Wynne." She rolled her eyes and went crawling back into her tent. Theresa helped Alistair to sit down on the log while she tended to his wound. She opened the flask and applied the medicine evenly. She was trying to be gentle. Any more gentle and there wouldn't be any medication on his skin. She looked up to see his face, he had a small smile and gentle eyes as he watched her work. She felt the air leave her lungs looking at him. She distracted herself with his wound. Alistair removed his tunic as she picked up the bandages. She turned back around startled. She licked her lips and started to wrap him up. She found this to be a difficult task, both physically and sexually. He was so wide and his shoulders were broad. She guiltily took the opportunity to touch him. His chest was soft and he had a small patch of hair on the center of his chest between his pecks. She looked a little lower, he had a thin line of hair leading down past the waist line of his breeches. It was a darker blonde than his head. Alistair cleared his throat once. Theresa looked up at him. He was smirking and waggling an eyebrow. She blushed and thanked the maker that she ran out of bandage. She put the two needles in place. "No armor today ok."
"Got it." She gave him his tunic back and he quickly put it on. Theresa gave him quick look over to make sure that he was still fine. Theresa returned to her organs and threw them in the pot. What she didn't use she would leave for the fish in the river.
Everyone seemed to be awake after what Theresa did. They spent their time talking over what they had gotten. Theresa looked over and noticed Sten was not amused. She went over and sat down beside him. "Hey Sten."
"Hello Warden."
"Did you like your present?"
"The bread is not as good as cake."
Theresa laughed. "Come here, I want to show you something."
"Is it your dagger?"
Theresa looked at him. "Did…did you just make a joke?"
"Yes."
She smiled. "Funny. Come on." She jumped up and waited for him to do the same. He followed her to Bodens kart. She opened the back and pulled out a portrait. It was a young girl overlooking a pond of sorts. "I found it in Redcliff. It was in a store room and I thought who would go in here to look at a portrait. But anyways, it's yours if you want it Sten."
He was quite for a moment. "This is unexpected. Thank you."
Theresa smiled at him. "It's what I'm here for." They both made their way back to the main area of camp. Everyone was looking at Theresa for guidance. Waiting for her to give orders.
"For those who don't know, today is The Holy Birthday. Yeaah." Morrigan sighed. "We will take the day off today and set out early tomorrow morning. So do what you want but stay in ear shot and in armor. The pig should be done by late afternoon." They were all just staring at her. "Go go, have fun. I insist, please." None of them moved until she shooed them away with her hands. Theresa sat back down on the log with Alistair. They were quite for a moment. Theresa spoke first. "I'm really sorry about…" Alistair cut her off with his hand. "Stop. It's alright. I'm fine see." He beat his chest and held her hands. "I'm fine. Don't worry about it."
"Are you sure?"
"Of course." Alistair wrapped his arm around her again and they just watched the flames. Alistair leaned in close to her ear, "Thank you for the statue. It looks great." His voice was rougher than he expected it to be.
Theresa looked at him, she could feel the blush rising on her cheeks. She breathed "Your welcome." They gazed at each other for a moment. Alistair looked away first, he rubbed the back of her neck as they watched the fire.
"You two make a cute couple." Livi said, pulling them out of their trances.
"Thank you." Theresa said.
Alistair jumped up, "That reminds me." He turned to go to the tent.
Theresa cut him off and told him to go sit down. He hung his head and did. "What did you need?"
"I just wanted to sharpen my sword today. Could you get it and my stone please?"
Theresa nodded and left Alistair by the fire. She crawled into the tent and saw there was a piece of folded valluume on her bedroll next to his sword. This was obviously a trap and she fell for it. She smiled and read the note.
Of everything I have in this world,
and all that I'll ever be,
it could all fall down around me,
just as long as I have you right here by me. *
Theresa kissed the note and placed it in her breast plate pocket, right next to his rose, and above her heart.
The group has made it to Denrim once again. And once again, they stay at the Gnawed Noble Tavern. And once again, she is at the bar. Alistair has the room key and is nowhere in sight. So once again, she is left sitting there, watching people as she drinks. She wanted desperately to lay down on a real bed. Her body was aching from her day of never ending walking. She took Liliana, Zev, and Alistair to see Liliana's past lover because a group of bandits brought it to their attention the day after the Holy Birthday. After that, Liliana wanted some alone time and wondered back to the tavern. Theresa noticed that she wasn't at the bar which might be a good thing. For Theresa anyway. After that, Theresa met a kind young man named Slim. Her and Zev spent most of the day robbing the rich and paying for the parties expenses for ending the blight. Okay, and a whore for Zev. He worked hard that day, he deserved it. He damned near hugged the life out of Theresa when she let him go to the Pearl all night. She wondered if he actually needed the money, being the suave and confident little guy that he was. She shook the thought away and found the Wade guy. After she talked to Levi, the dragon scale armor should be done by the time they get back from Soldiers Peak. And if that was the case, she could simply take a small party with her to Soldiers Peak and the rest could stay here. Or, go ahead to Oramazar. Nah, she'll just take everyone with her. Might get done faster if everyone came.
Theresa was of in Lala land when a man sat down at her table. She looked up and he looked vaguely familiar. He was wearing a brown cloak and his face was covered by the shadows and the hood. He was smiling, watching her trying to figure out who he was. "Captain. You cut your hair. Looks horrible."
That voice. "Rizona?" The man nodded. She felt the smile spread across her face as someone from her long lost home was also alive. She was filled with so much happiness and hope. "How…how are you?"
"Good ma'am, yourself?"
"Fine, how is everyone?"
He was quiet for a moment. "Few still live ma'am."
Theresa got up and sat down next to him and bought all his rounds. "How's Highever?"
"She's taken ma'am." Two mugs arrived at the table. Rizona thanked the woman but Theresa was too involved with her old sergeant.
"Where are the men?"
He set his mug down. "Everywhere. Those who survived Ostogar like I did, spread to the four winds. Few of us made it back to Highever to see her being treated like Howes whore. The land is being used for mass farming. He tears down the castle for his own back here. All the supplies are gone. Highever is no longer as beautiful and plentiful as it used to be ma'am. It's just a husk of land now."
She felt all her happiness wash out of her. Her fathers land that he put blood, sweat, and tears into is now just some mans way of earning a few extra coin. "How is the village?"
"Gone. It was burned down. I returned to my family's home to find that everything that we built was nothing but ash and dirt."
"I'm so sorry Rizona."
They were quiet for a moment. "Few of us decided to go to Redcliff or Dragon's Pass. Seeing as how you married into the family, we assumed that Redcliff would welcome us."
"Unfourtantly, Redcliff is undergoing a few problems of its own. The Arl is currently engaged with dealing with the King, and the Bann is trying to restore order back to his people." I hope that's the truth anyway.
"How was the wedding?" His voice was thick with regret.
"There wasn't one, and there won't be."
He removed his hood and furrowed his brow. He always looked funny when he was trying to be serious, Theresa remembered. His dark hair and complexion usually pitted him against the bullies of the army, seeing as how most of the soldiers were as fair skinned as her, but he always used humor and wit to get out of it. "Why not captain?"
How do I put this…."Tegan has voided the contract. Well…I also voided it. Anyways, it's cancelled now so."
Rizona looked into his mug. "What of Dragon's Pass?"
"Well, my uncle is the Teryan there but it's out past the Frost Back Mountains."
There was a long silence between the two. Theresa wanted to ask so many questions, but one kept pressing on her head. She decided that she would never ask it. "How many of our men live?"
"Hundred, at the most."
Theresa watched him as he drank his ale. She pulled on his arm, "Come on." She was still wearing her armor and she knew that her loved friend was armed. She walked him outside of the city gates to Boden.
"Rizona, after the castle was taken over, I was recruited to be a Grey Warden." She heard him take a slight gasp of air. "I was also at Ostogar, however, my mission was completely different than yours. I was to light the beacon for Logian to send his men in for support. I made it up the tower, and light it, slightly earlier than I was supposed to actually. But I watched as Logan sent his men way. He retreated in battle so that he may claim the crown for himself. I watched as an Ogre killed King Calien, and my Senior Warden Duncan." They came to a stop by his kart. "I do not lie. You know me and that is not becoming actions for anyone, especially anyone who claims to be of Highever, right?" He nodded. "Do you believe me?"
"Yes, captain." He answered, without thinking, without fear, without regret.
"I have found the next heir to the throne. The Arl of Redcliff is calling a Landsmeet. Meric's bastard child will take the throne."
Rizona looked confused. "Does he have the ability TO lead?"
"Sometimes."
"Captain, if I may speak plainly, Ferelden doesn't need a 'sometimes' king."
Theresa sighed. "I agree. However, he is rightfully next for the throne."
"What about Anora?"
"What about her?"
He shrugged his shoulders. "She has had the throne longer, why not let her keep it and just kill her father? That sounds like the safest and blood thirstiest solution."
Theresa smiled. "True, however, I don't know if that is an option as of right now."
Rizona looked around him. "Any reason why we left the warmth of the tavern for an autumn night outside of the city? If I didn't know any better, I'd say this was an ambush."
Theresa hung her head and smiled. She looked back up into his brown eyes. "Actually, I was wondering if you would do me a favor."
"Anything you desire captain."
"Rally all the men you can. There is a place called Soldier's Peak to the north west of here. I have a map, I will let you draw the path. Find all the men you can and send all of Highever soldiers there in at least five days. In a month and a half, I will be there. I want my men to stand beside me on the battle of victory for the blight." Theresa reached into the kart and pulled out her family's sword and shield and passed them over to Rizona. "Take these. It will show that you are going on my behalf."
He looked at the shield, tracing the symbol that he loved so much with his forefinger. "Why don't you come with me?"
She shook her head. "I can't. I have to attend to the dwarves and then I have to go back to Redcliff to tell the Arl that the Landsmeet can begin. I would if I could but…I'm sorry."
Rizona looked back at his fearless leader. She was slowly dying inside, he could feel it. "Is there anything that I can do for you Warden?"
She was quite for a moment. "Yes, tell them, that if they stand behind me, we will take back our home. Highever will once again belong to her people and not some tyrant."
He nodded courtly. "Yes, Warden."
"Just Theresa, please." He looked into her big blue eyes. His face showed disbelief. "I'm not a captain anymore. I don't feel like a Grey Warden. The name Cousland has been slandered. So, just Theresa."
His smile came back. "I will tell them, Captain of the Grey Wardens, Theresa Cousland, requires her armies for our honor, our home, and our country."
Theresa raised her eyebrows. "ohh, I like that. Yea, use that to motivate people to join us."
He smiled at her. "Come, let us go before we catch a cold." She nodded as they walked back. Telling stories of old times and of times they missed. Theresa missed being avle to talk to someone who knew what Highever was like. She tried to explain it to Alistair but words could never come close to how beautiful the gardens were, how vast the wheat fields were, how strong the castle was, and how glorious the stars were on a calm Highever winter night. She missed the simple conversations that she and Rizona used to have before she became higher ranking than him. When they were younger, they used to be best friends. But that was long ago. She would at times feel regret for taking leadership and forcing herself to have to distance herself from her men. There was always a line that she could never cross. There was always something out of her reach.
Theresa walked through the door of the tavern and found Alistair sitting at a table ,he was wearing a simple tunic, trousers and leather shoes. He was looking annoyed, nervous, and remotely frightened. Until he saw her. He stood to greet her and eyed the man that was trailing her.
"Alistair, this is Rizona. He served with me back in Highever." She turned to look at Rizona. "This is Alistair, the…uhh…next in line guy."
"Thanks." Alistair said flatly.
"Not a problem." She smiled at him. Theresa took her seat and other two men did the same. Three new mugs appeared on the table before them. Rizona watched the man was supposed to be his new king. He fidgeted in his seat and only relaxed when captain…Theresa spoke to him. He was like a child who was in a new place and didn't know how to act. He drank his ale in large gulps. He was worried over something.
"So," Alistair turned to Rizona, "you got any black mail on Theresa here."
Rizona smiled. "I'm afraid I don't."
"What? You served with her, don't you have some funny story?"
Rizona thought about it for a moment. He shook his head. "No, I'm sorry. Cap did what she could for her men and proved to be an excellent leader. You don't get that position with skeletons under your bedroll. However, if it's black mail you want, you'll have to talk to Major Cousland." He looked over at Theresa, her eyes grew dark. She wasn't over the idea that her brother might be dead. Rizona never saw him on the battlefield nor did he see him flee for his life like the others did. He dropped his gaze back into his mug.
"Geeze, I know honor among soldiers but come on, anything? Not even she lost a battle or something?"
Theresa answered for Rizona. "The only battles that I was in and lost, I was not leading." Rizona nodded in agreement.
Alistair sighed and leaned back, watching Theresa. She reached into her gauntlet that was on the table and passed some valluume to Rizona. He took it and opened it. He studied the map that Theresa gave him before passing it back to her. She raised a questionable eyebrow. But he just nodded and she took the valluume and placed it back in her glove. Theresa yawned. They were going to have to leave early in the morning and she needed sleep. "Sergeant, I'm sorry but I do require sleep. It was an honor and a privilege to see you alive once again. Please do what you can. If anything changes, I'll let you know, okay?"
He nodded. "Good night Theresa." She smiled at him and stood up. She tapped Alistair on the shoulder and held out her hand for the key. He stood with her and bid Rizona a good night. He watched them leave and head down the hallway together. No wonder he relaxed when captain…damn it, Theresa spoke to him. In the pit of his stomach, he wanted to punch the prince in his face for taking what he always wanted. He finished his ale and made his way to The Pearl.
Theresa followed Alistair to the room. She wanted to fall on the bed and not think about anything anymore. If she could have one wish, it would be to sleep. Alistair unlocked the door and turned around to face her. He was wearing his little boy smile and Theresa couldn't help but smile back. "Why are you smiling like that?"
"Do you trust me?" Alistair asked.
She eyed him suspiciously. "Of course."
Alistair walked around Theresa and stood behind her. "Close your eyes." He whispered into her ear. His hot breath creating a tremor throughout her whole body. He put his hands over her eyes and led the way into the room. Theresa had her hands out in front of her as they walked. Alistair stopped and turned her facing him. He dropped his hands for her to see. He was leaning on the door with a grin. Theresa rolled her eyes and turned around. She was getting ready to jump on the bed when she stopped dead in her tracks. The room was…amazing. White candles were on every shelf, a fire in the fireplace, the bath was full of hot water with red rose pedals floating on the surface, the bed was four posted with white bedding with red pedals all over it, the floor even had the pedals. Theresa smiled, knowing that Alistair did all this for her…or the last guy who had this room forgot to clean up. Either way, it was hopelessly romantic and super cheesy, it screamed Alistair's work. She turned to face him, that ridiculously huge smile still on her face. He was blushing but smiling at her. He rubbed his chin hairs and locked the door before he faced her. "Umm…" He looked around the room. "Even with all this here, it's still hard to ask." He cleared his throat. He met her blue eyes again. She was still lost in his eyes. "When ever I'm around you, I feel like my head's gonna explode. I can't think straight." Theresa blinked twice and tried to hide her laughter. He rolled his eyes. "It's not funny."
Theresa composed herself. "Sorry, it was just random. But" she licked her lips "I feel the same way at times."
Alistair's face got serious and he drew closer to her. Theresa could feel his body heat on her skin. "Here's the thing, being around you makes me crazy. And I can't stand being without you…not…ever." He placed one hand on her hip and the other to tuck some hair behind her ear. She didn't pull away, she didn't flinch from him. Her lips were barely parted but enough for thoughts to run through Alistair's mind. "I don't know how to say this another way, but I want to spend the night with you. Maybe this is too fast, I don't know, but…I know what I feel." He lowered his head waiting for her to reject him with pain and fear on his face.
She simply smiled at him. "Umm, Alistair, we spend every night together. Unless I'm dreaming. And I just told you. Awe, this just got embarrassing." Theresa turned her head away from him, feeling the blush rise.
Alistair gently cupped her face with one of his hands and stroked her cheek with his thumb. She turned to look at him. "I…I want" he licked his lips, "I want to take our…relationship…to the next level. I want to finish the spell tonight with you in my arms." He was searching her face for a yes, or a possibly, hell, a cute would have sufficed him. But she was scared. Everything on her face said it.
She took his hand and kissed his palm. "This is too soon Alistair."
He lowered himself and rested his forehead on hers. "This is the perfect time and the perfect place given the fact that we met at in imperfect time and at an imperfect place. We…stumbled…into each other. And even with all the death and everything else around us, I still fell in love with you."
"Alistair…"
"I don't want to wait anymore." He looked into her dark blue eyes, the eyes that make every nightmare a dream. "I've…I've never done this before, you know that." He stood upright and gently brought her closer to him. "And I want that to be with you. In case…in case…"
Theresa brought herself closer to him. She put her hands on his chest, his heart was beating like crazy. "There will time later, after the blight, I promise."
His face was somber. His voice, thick with uncertainty. "Will there? You don't know that, I don't know that. Can't we just throw caution to the winds just this once? Please Thess."
Theresa bit her lip and furrowed her brow. She wanted this, maker knows she does. But she doesn't want to tie her life to his. Already is. Well then, she didn't want to tie his to hers. So selfish. He is willing to save you at every turn and yet you don't want to do the same for him? And you say that you love this man. No wonder you think that he deserves someone better. "Alistair, I don't know if I can."
"Why not?"
She looks away from him. "Tegan." She pauses for a moment. "He's still in my head."
He slowly drops his hand from her face and rests it on her hips. "I'm not him."
"I know but, I'm still scared."
Alistair was quiet. He brought her to him and wrapped his arms around her shoulders and held her close to his chest. She could hear his heart breaking even as it was pumping blood. He leaned into her ear, "I'll wait for you. So until you're ready, I'll be here." Theresa nodded into his chest. "Is it too much to ask to sleep with you in my arms tonight?" She shook her head. He leaned up and rested his hands back to her hips. "Well, then, let's get you out of that armor and into bed shall we?" He smiled and she smiled back at him. They unbuckled her armor and laid it in the corner. Theresa was just in her tunic and breeches. Alistair held out his hand for her to take and led her to the bed. She sat down and Alistair smiled at her again. He turned around and blew out every candle that was aflame. He found his way back to the bed and wrapped an arm around her. She rolled over and her back was to him. He put his other arm under her head and kissed the back of her neck. She arched her back to him and he smiled. "Good night."
"Night." She breathed back. She interlaced her fingers with both of his hands and fell asleep.
Alistair watched her for a while. Maybe she's right. Waiting would be the best solution. I don't want to pressure her. Even if I do want her with every fiber of my being. She snored lightly in her sleep, he smiled. Who could've ever asked for more?
A/N if you found and guessed what the song was here it is. "Here by Me" by 3 Doors Down from thier album Seventeen Days. I'm a huge fan i cry everytime i hear it... dont judge me. I see you stairing at me.
