"Wicked Eyes and Wicked Bullshit"

Once Gaspard ascended the steps up into the Palace, we were left alone in a small group. Thrown to the sharks, would be a good terminology. Maybe piranhas? Piranhas swarm, tearing the flesh off of their living prey, and swim in schools. Yeah, maybe piranhas. When the groups of nobles spoke, they didn't even attempt to lower their voices to keep us from hearing. It was like they wanted us to hear. Wanted us to know we weren't welcomed. Didn't belong.

And me, being me. I got pissed off when my friends were insulted. It didn't help that Lavellan was pretty much the sweetest woman I'd ever met and these people were judging her so quickly. They haven't even met her! Inner me hissed and scratched, wanting to throw their fine wine in their faces.

Sera was in the same state as I, though her rage was tempered and hidden masterfully. Lavellan appeared as if she didn't even hear anything. Vivienne and Cassandra were at her flanks looking as strong and noble as ever, blending in almost effortlessly. The same went for Dorian, who had grown up in nobility. Walking and talking with people like this likely came as easy as breathing. Solas walked with an agile grace I'd not noticed of him, ambling behind the Inquisitor as if it were the most natural thing to do. One would almost think him to be of noble origin, as well.

Cole and I simply fumbled around behind the small group awkwardly. Though I doubt anyone could see the blonde rogue at my side. There were times he'd flitter out of my vision, only to appear moments later standing next to a group of people across the courtyard. They didn't jump or gawk at him, so I assumed he was using his gift to remain unseen by those certain peoples.

I fiddled with the black embroidery on the restricting material around my torso (thank fuck it wasn't a corset), the shape of roses glinted up at me from underneath the glow lamp. My hand trailing up to rest on the wood pendant that rested in the middle of my chest. I'd refused to remove it, much to Vivienne's chagrin. We were standing on the outside of the Palace when I heard some not-so-silent whispered words from my right.

"What was Gaspard even thinking? Is it a joke? Bringing that elf to the Ball. It is a disgrace!" A rather plump woman put her hand over her mouth as she stared critically at our group.

"Ugh." Was a man's reply.

"The Inquisitor is an elf? I thought it was just a rumor, but –" The woman facing me choked and laughed nervously, as I'd slowly turned in their direction and sent possibly the best burning glare I could muster.

I couldn't help it that time and I scowled. This wasn't going to be easy. She paused in her talk and stared back at me, her friends' backs were turned as they chattered pointlessly. The woman that was looking in my direction was wearing a mask of some sort, which obscured any expression I saw on her face.

I lifted my hand and pointed at my eyes with my pointer and middle finger and flicked it back in her direction, the obvious 'I'm watching you' gesture, before turning and strutting off.

"One must temper their expression lest they give away their true intentions." Solas murmured as I caught up with the rest of them. Shut up, Solas.

"Elves. They're always racist against the elves and it pisses me off. How about I-" My voice was low enough that only the people in the direct vicinity would have heard, which was only our group, but Solas shut me up with a look. I'd been about to threaten the people verbally, which would have been incredibly stupid on my part. The chances of someone overhearing was still there. I muttered, "Whatever."

Elves were looked down upon much like some of the minorities were at some point on Earth. Though most of that has withered away with time, it was still there. It would always be there and I knew that.

My obvious disdain for their actions must have showed up on my face, because the damn bald elf was staring at me with that calculating look of his. I returned it, staring back and refusing to break eye contact. Wanna go, Solas? Wanna see these hands?

In all honesty, I probably wouldn't hurt him unless he greatly deserved it (which he didn't). I only liked thinking I would, to make myself feel better.

He wouldn't back down. Neither would I. My posture straightened and I tried to appear taller, but even he was taller than I. The hobo-mage didn't even attempt to move, but the look in his eyes changed and I could have swore he glared at me for a second there. Ho-oh, I wouldn't submit that easily.

"Is there something wrong?" Lavellan's sickeningly sweet voice filtered into my ears and I felt my shoulders slump, eyes averting over to her almost immediately. The wavy haired elf had a fake smile plastered on her face as she looked at us both, the statement clear. 'Behave or pay'.

I swallowed nervously.

Ah, but the racism that ensued that evening. We lingered around out in the front courtyard for maybe ten minutes, mostly Lavellan and a few of the more socially adept people 'mingled'. I think the Inquisitor helped someone with something, I couldn't be sure. I was too focused on how clammy my hands felt and how my legs wouldn't stop wobbling.

It would take a bit, but I'm sure I would adjust. I wasn't allowed to appear pissed off or angry, so trying to cope with the situation in my usual way was a no-go. When in doubt, get angry. Anger was such an overpowering emotion and it was easy to feel. But it was also the emotion that was the hardest to control and made you act rashly, throwing logic out the window. So it was dangerous. Like playing with fire, you're bound to get burned at some point. I just hope I didn't get burned tonight.

So when I kept hearing comments about Lavellan's race and the prejudice that followed, I had to physically keep myself in check by clutching onto the metal fan in my hands as I stared at the doors as they opened to allow us entrance.

Though it seemed it wasn't just me that was nervous. Once Josephine was done speaking to Lavellan, she muttered underneath her breath. "Andraste watch over us all."

If even the Ambassador was nervous about this event, perhaps my fear was well-founded.

The comments wouldn't stop, as I strode behind the small group that represented the Inquisition. For the third time already that night, I contemplated the consequences of using my fan to rip someone's dress up.

"Why are there so many elves, here?"

"The Empress invited them. Be polite."

Then there were others that made me want to laugh, directed at me as I ambled beside Lavellan for a short period of time.

"She looks human, but is she really?" I heard someone whisper as I strode toward some people I recognized from the Inquisition. Oh, come on. Really? Is that all you can think of? The classic 'is she even human' question.

Words didn't bite into me like they used to. I'd been called much worse things and the thought made me want to laugh.

"I don't know. Didn't they say she mercilessly slaughtered five men for insulting her?" The other person, a man I realized, spoke back and I turned to look – curiosity piqued. They'd said that? I'd been hearing many things, but that one was new.

"I hear they are allied with the templars. Perhaps it is in our best interest that she is under the Inquisition's watch."

"Shhh! She's looking this way."

I flipped my fan open and covered the scowl forming on my face. The sound caused a few of the women to jump and skitter back a few steps. People were stupid.

Everyone had been introduced at some point, leaving me to 'mingle'. I hated the fact that I had to use a fake surname. I hated the fact that they introduced me as 'of Earth', (Where the fuck had they gotten that information, anyway?). Most of all, I hated the way everyone gasped when they saw me appear down the staircase. All eyes on me. Whispering. Murmuring. Spreading lies, deceit and plotting. Nerves on end, needles underneath my skin. Everything closing in and my breathing quickened. In out. In out.

I was going to have a fucking panic attack.

Hadn't had one in years.

But I didn't. I kept my mind on the way the fabric from my dress flowed down and covered my legs, hitting the floor elegantly. The way the warm air hit my bare shoulders. The surroundings melted away and it was like everything was background noise as I made my way up the staircase on the other side of the Ballroom. Done.

I just had to remember that Lavellan and Dorian had gotten a similar reaction, so I wasn't alone. When they introduced Solas as 'Lady Inquisitor's elven serving man' I almost rolled over and died. Fortunately I was able to bite my tongue and simply smile cheesily at him. And then Sera's introduction sounded something like 'My balls itch of course' and I lost it. I swore my snort echoed through the halls before I tempered it and pretended it never happened as I waved my fan in my face frantically.

What struck me as odd was they didn't even introduce Cole. I envied him, for the hundredth time that evening. I thought of how much I envied his ability to float around unseen. Being invited as a guest with the Inquisitor gave me the privilege of being noticed by many people. I idly wondered how Dorian was doing, being a Tevinter and all. And a mage. Perhaps I would seek him out later and we could bask in our pariah status together.

Strength in numbers.

Don't get me wrong, it wasn't just Lavellan and I that were getting the stink eye. Dorian was, too. As mentioned before. But what baffled me was that Solas, poor unassuming Solas, wasn't even given a second glance. His suit wasn't flashy at all and he mostly stuck at the Inquisitor's side. Vivienne and Cassandra were revered, almost. Cassandra because of some incident where she took down a dragon here in the city (Being the Right Hand of the Divine helped, as well) and Vivienne because of her high status as a noble in Orlais.

Just when I thought that I was finally able to get away from the scathing looks and racist comments, I ran into this douche. I'd been ambling around, looking at all of the ornate decorations and eventually found myself in a mostly empty hallway. Mostly, because a man was standing with his head held high and sneering down at a young elven servant as she picked up something on the floor.

That certain something that attracted my attention, actually. I'd heard something shatter.

"Dirty knife ears never get anything right." The Orlesian noble scoffed at the elf that was now on the ground trying to clean up the mess he had made. He must have felt mighty comfortable, seeing as how there were barely any people in the hall he was in. "I said a fine Ghislain White not this cheap horsepiss. Get it right, next time!"

It might have just been because back on Earth I was considered a 'minority', but the racism toward elves was really starting to get to me. I'd experienced a good amount of racism back when I was a child, from both sides. I was never 'white' or 'brown' enough for my peers, so I was cast out and got to see that lovely side of humanity at a young and tender age.

But seeing the blatant maltreatment made something in me snap, the simmering irritation that I'd been feeling all night turned into a boiling rage so fast that I swore I could hear it in my ears. It didn't help that the girl looked to be no more than 16 or so. I squared my shoulders and slowly walked toward the duo, boots thumping on the shiny pristine floor as I made my approach.

The man had a shiny gold mask with a pointed nose as he turned to look at me, his lips curving into a pleasant smile. It appeared as though he were about to greet me, if the way he bowed was anything to go by. I simply ignored the man, walking passed him and up to the elf – leaning down to help the girl pick up the shattered pieces of the bottle of wine that he'd knocked out of her hands.

"M-My Lady, you shouldn't-"

"You are injured." I cut her off, pointing lazily at the small elf's bloodied fingers. It wasn't horrible, but her pale skin was becoming stained as she picked the pieces up without any care for her own welfare. "Just go clean yourself up, he will ask someone else to fetch him his fine wine."

I couldn't keep the amount of disdain I felt for him out of my tone as I slowly stood up and straightened my posture. The man was obviously shocked at the display, his hand held up to his chest as he gawked. Was what I did not a good thing? Was it looked down upon? Below me?

I had to resist the urge to sneer at the man. Perhaps I was no better, but people like this disgusted me.

That's bullshit. I was treating her like a person, not some object to order around on a whim. I could see why Sera really disliked the upper class. His expression was mostly hidden behind his flashy mask, but judging by the way his mouth was in a firm frown – he likely disapproved of my actions.

"Or perhaps you could fetch it yourself, after I turn you into a dog." I forced a smile onto my face, knowing all too well that one of the few mages to come had been me. He would realize. He would know.

"It would certainly beat the alternative. Do you know what we do to racists back in my home world?" I continued after he didn't speak and fully intended to use such fear to my advantage, now that I saw an opportunity. He must have realized finally, because he took a small step back, his Adam's apple bobbing as he swallowed thickly.

His knees trembled, head shaking back and forth furiously. My brown gaze flicked around, seeing no one else in the direct vicinity. Oh, what the hell. My reputation was already tarnished as it was, why not feed the rumors a little? What's the worst that could happen?

"We kill them." Came my rather uncharacteristically chipper reply, my head tilting to the side as my grin widened. I was sorely tempted to giggle to add to the creepiness, but decided against it.

The noble man didn't even speak, letting out a small noise as he promptly turned around and scurried off down the hallway. Expensive white shoes clicking on the ornate floors as he turned the corner, never to be seen again. Not once did he glance back to see my gleeful expression at the fact that it had worked! The mage thing wasn't all bad, it seemed.

"I-Is it true, My Lady? T-They kill them?"

"Nah. They're scorned, but not killed. Unfortunately. I apologize that you had to put up with that." I spoke before looking to the fidgety elf girl. "I'll take my leave."

"Yes, My Lady." She bowed and I returned the gesture, trying my best to be polite. Trying, key word.

What the hell is with all of the racists here today?! I had encountered a few, back in Skyhold, but they were few and far between. Though I'm sure there were more than I'd actually had the joy of 'seeing', they simply knew to keep their mouths shut. The ones here did not and it irritated me to no end.

In short, I really really wanted to bash some heads in at that point. I'd already threatened a man, which I did not regret, and definitely would not mind threatening another. I wondered if I would get thrown out for such behavior. Unless they were too scared to say anything while I was still here?

Third Person

Much of their weapons had been smuggled in by some Inquisition agents and left in a designated area. They would need to get this done swiftly, Vivienne having stayed back in the Ballroom – where she shined best.

The small band of friends weren't completely unarmed, but at a small disadvantage in such unfavorable circumstances. It was much easier for the mages to walk around simply in their uniforms that they'd worn to the Ball, enchantments had been woven into them to enhance spellcasting.

It was, however, much harder for the warrior and rogues to attain their armor.

Any of the enemies they encountered in the more restricted areas of the Palace were taken down in haste. Not only because they had two assassins in the party, but because they were swift and efficient. Having worked alongside one another for awhile now, everyone was familiar with one another's fighting styles. The familiarity allowed for them to better focus on the battle and move amongst one another with ease.

Cole had come to learn he didn't like 'the Game'. Being privy to people's thoughts and feelings gave him a window into something no one else could see. Everyone was deceiving everyone, never showing their true colors. Masks upon masks, melded and molded to keep people at bay. Make them see what wasn't.

It was like a play. Nothing was real and everyone was acting, speaking and whispering thoughts they didn't think. It was real but it wasn't, which only served to make things more confusing to the blonde rogue. He pulled his dagger out of a man's back, not even waiting to watch him fall to the ground – disappearing and reappearing behind another that was about to strike Cassandra's flank. Easily dispatching another man, his lithe form danced across the battlefield ducking and dodging.

During their time investigating, and Inquisitor Lavellan had made sure to investigate everyone she could, he could almost taste the betrayal. Many men they'd come across had been betrayed by their superiors, the people they thought they trusted. Many people died and murdered and for what? It was the side of humanity that scared Cole. Just how easily people could get tossed aside and killed.

The place was like a maze. Why anyone would need so much space was beyond him.

Then they happened to meander their ways into the Royal Wing, where the Empress' quarters were. What awaited them was quite unexpected, that was for sure.

Cassandra made a grossed out noise at what they witnessed as they entered the Empress' room. A man, wearing only a helmet, was tied to the bed posts with some rope. He struggled, legs and arms wriggling around as he turned and looked at the group of people that entered the room.

"P-Please, it isn't what it looks like. I'd have preferred if it was what it looks like, but it isn't!" He forced out, face turning pink in embarrassment. "Just help me out-"

"Ugh." The Seeker held her hand up to shield her line of vision as she turned her head away with a scrunched nose. Cole tilted his head curiously. In the books she read, they often would do such things. Even Dorian and The Iron Bull were fascinated with the idea of doing what they were currently witnessing.

Sera laughed at the man tied up in Celene's bed. "She'll be all prim, but here's you with all yer bits out."

"You know, you got yourself into this position yourself. I could just leave you here for someone else to find." Lavellan tapped her chin as she appeared to contemplate what to do with the man. Though Cole knew she wouldn't simply leave him there.

"No! Don't! I'll do anything. Anything!" The man pleaded, struggling even more against the binds. The expensive bed creaked as he flailed, ornate bed posts acting as anchors to keep him in place.

"Anything, you say?" The Inquisitor giggled a little, allowing a smile to make it's way onto her face. "Didn't that get you into your current position?"

The man made a disgruntled noise, his face tinging pink as he tried to glare at the Inquisitor but failed.

"Don't worry. Would you testify if I asked it of you? If so, I will release you from your binds." She offered with a grin that almost matched Sera's, who stood beside her trying to withhold her cackles. "Perhaps we could even keep this under wraps, yes?"

"Yes, please!" And just like that, he was freed and able to cover his body with his missing armor that lay at the foot of the bed. Strewn on the floor and glinting up at him as if greeting him.

"It's funny, innit? He only had 'is helmet on." Sera snorted as the man scurried out of the room, "Unless Empress-ladybits is into that kinda thing, ya know?"

"People do it all the time, do you think Lyn would like it?" Cole asked, genuinely curious as he eyed the ropes that lay limply on the bed. The man had since dressed and left, but they still lingered to poke around the room for anything they could use to their advantage.

This left Cole to his thoughts, which had been getting increasingly loud these passed few days. Those thoughts also made his body react in odd ways. He knew what it was, it had just … never really happened. None of that stuff ever used to bother him. Not until he met Lyn. The woman seemed to be a special exception to many things when it came to him.

Though his own thoughts were never loud enough to filter out the kinds of things he was reading off of the otherworlder when they were close to one another. Not that he disliked it. The same things would oftentimes flicker through his own head, familiar things he'd seen in books.

Yes, seen. He never read books, but listened to other people read books. The rogue began to shift uncomfortably, hands fiddling with the bottom of his shirt as he looked around. Sera was staring at him with disgust clear on her little round face.

Oh, right. He'd made a comment about Lyn and she wasn't taking it too well.

"Uuugh! Now it's in my head!" Sera clutched at her choppy blonde hair as her expression slowly morphed into horror, "We are not talkin' about this, really? Can someone please shut him up?"

Him?

Sera had never called him a him before. It was always 'it' or 'creepy'.

"You called me him! Thank you!"

"Rrrgggh!" Sera sounded frustrated.

"Do you think this is perhaps something you should ask her about in person?" Lavellan butted in and tacked on at the end. "Please?"

"Oh, sorry."

"Why – have you wished to indulge in such activities, Cole?" Dorian was looking at him in what seemed to be morbid curiosity. Solas was silent as ever, even to Cole, as he lingered near the door.

"Maybe." His face felt warm, his mind conjuring an image of Lyn tied up to the bed posts. Brown eyes staring back at him with a burning intensity that sent his heart stuttering. He then stared back at the Tevinter mage with wide eyes, suddenly feeling bashful. "Yes."

It seemed it wasn't just Lyn that had some problems with controlling those thought processes. Cole found that it was quite involuntary. It just happened.

"Talk any louder and you will alert our enemies of our position." Cassandra drawled with an unamused look on her face, though Lavellan spotted the faint blush staining the Seeker's cheeks.

"The people in the books you read do it too. Bound with silk ribbons, tied to the headboard. Gentle caresses on soft supple flesh, thoughts spiraling-" He was cut off by Cassandra's horrified/disgusted noise.

"Enough!" She snapped out, face flushing even more so that it was now visible to everyone else in the room.

Cole's eyes went wide when he looked over at the Seeker, "No, not like that!"

"What are you thinking about, Cassie?" Lynn smiled over at the warrior who snapped her eyes in her direction.

"Cassandra." She corrected in a clipped tone as she coughed into her hand. "And it is nothing to concern yourself over, Inquisitor. Let us move on."

"Bet she's a freak in the sheets, right? Knew it!" Sera was quick to bounce back, her ever changing mood sometimes gave even Cole whiplash.

Lavellan heard a man screaming, causing them to leap into action and burst through the doors that lead to a small garden area. A fountain positioned in the middle of plush green grass and – Venatori agents lined the walls aiming their weapons at them. They were vastly outnumbered.

Great.

A typical 'bad guy' speech ensued as Florianne practically gloated about the fact that the wavy haired elf fell for the bait and was now trapped. The Duchess seemed so certain that they would die right then and there, still talking casually as if they were not a threat.

"All I need is to keep you out of the Ballroom long enough to strike." The woman on the balcony smiled kindly, "A pity, really. The Venatori won't fail this time when they try to take your mage."

No one noticed the way Cole's eyes narrowed dangerously as he stared up at the woman on the balcony.

"What would they want with Lyn?" She questioned, thinking about the two times she was taken. Well, once she was actually kidnapped and they attempted another in the Hissing Wastes. It seemed a little too much work for one woman, didn't it?

"All I know is she is crucial in his plans. Who am I to question his judgment? I will soon rule all of Thedas in his name, after all." The Duchess shrugged her question off, "The girls have some special abilities, from what I heard. I have to admit-"

She was cut off when a dagger flew passed her head and she stared in open shock at the rogue who dare interrupt her speech.

"Enough talk. Kill her and bring me her marked hand." Lavellan didn't give her a chance to speak again, simply diving off to the side. Everything seemed to slow down, just then. Arrows from their bows were released and flew by with a 'fwip!', barely missing her. Her heart sped up and adrenaline pumped through her veins as she rolled into a crouch.

The elf's hand shot out, outstretched as she felt the familiar sensation in her palm pulsating. Then she clasped her hand and pulled back, like ripping a thread out of a shirt. The air tore, gaping green as it sent demons forth into the chaos. It had worked to their advantage, stirring up their enemies as they had to decide which to focus on. The Inquisitor and her group or the demons around them.

"Rift!" One of their enemies screeched, only to get targeted first and attacked by the green misty form of a wraith.

Everything began almost immediately, enemies distraught and in disarray as they were forced to either deal with the wraiths or Lavellan and her group. Unfortunately the Venatori men were right next to the rift as it spewed blackened liquid, oozing out of it like a festering wound, pooling onto the perfectly trimmed grass of the garden.

It ended as quick as it began, though not without any injuries. Some of them were scuffed up with blood slowly seeping out of shallow wounds, but nothing fatal. Fortunately.

"Have you heard anything yet, Cole?" Lavellan asked, still out of breath as she leaned forward. The others cleaned themselves off and performed standard first aid before they were to head out.

"I heard her. It was black, gripping and grasping until she wanted more and more. Florianne knows a lot. Knew a lot. Rumors, lies, and deceit. She was the one to tell everyone about Lyn. They wanted her to be here at the Ball with you. It was their plan." He sounded uncharacteristically angered, or maybe irritated. The elf couldn't tell, but she knew she didn't ever want to be on the receiving end of that glare.

Lavellan paled a little, a frown marring her lightly tanned face.

"We suspected Venatori being responsible for the rumors and we weren't wrong, I guess. Though it seems we now know our culprit for who has been the one feeding the lies." The elf paused, staring at him with a slight squint before asking another question. "How have you been faring otherwise?"

"Good. So many masks, not just the ones on their faces either." Cole spoke softly, eyes slowly trailing over everyone in the group – who were currently preoccupied. "Lyn wears a mask, too. But she doesn't do it to use or hurt anyone but to protect. Hardened, cold, shards of ice on the outside – soft, sweet, serene on the inside. She doesn't like it when people know, but you know."

"We all wear masks. Some are thicker than others." The Inquisitor nodded solemnly, lips curving upward into a saddened smile.

"Florianne said girls. She knows about Angel." Sera interrupted suddenly, causing her to jump slightly.

"I know." Lavellan winced, "We can't tell Lyn about that, right now. Alright?"

"Tha' ain't right, she deserves to know yeah?" The blonde elf disagreed, "She's 'er sister."

"Lyn already has enough on her plate as it is, Sera. If she finds out about that now, how well do you think she'll be able to hold up out there?" Lavellan explained to the loud elf, trying to get through to her. "I'll tell her after this is done and over."

Sera looked like she was about to protest but with one look from Lavellan, her posture slumped and she shook her head and looked away. "Yeah, whatever."

"We need to keep an eye on her, the chances of another attempt at taking her has just went up." She spoke seriously, "We cannot have that happen."

Not just because the Inquisitor saw the otherworlder as a friend, but also because of what Corypheus may be planning and what it was that he needed her for. It was unnerving. As for the Ball …

It seemed there was foul play on all sides. The Inquisitor wasn't so blind as to not realize that and had been rather thorough as she made her way through the more restricted parts of the palace. If she could have any say in it, she wouldn't allow any assassination to take place. She thought it to be absurd that they didn't just sit down and actually have a peace talk instead of trying to plot to stab one another behind the back.

Doing that wouldn't get them any progress, if you asked Lavellan. More like taking one step forward and two steps back. The woman usually preferred to stay neutral and watch the goings-ons, but as Inquisitor she'd likely have to choose between the three. She didn't like that thought. If it were up to her, they would all be forced to work with one another – despite their differences. At least until the world wasn't in danger, then they could settle their disputes.

Celene dying would likely cause an uproar of sorts, leaving the court in disarray. Gaspard had his own followers, as did Briala. But that didn't mean that they would have everyone's support. Choosing one came with dire consequences, no matter the selection. The wavy haired elf's eyes darkened, her face taking on a somber quality.

"We can get through this, Inky. Don' worry too much 'bout it, 'kay?" Lavellan felt Sera's hand as it wrapped around her arm comfortingly as they strode forth toward the Ballroom. They sometimes didn't agree with their decisions and fought about things, but that didn't mean that the dalish elf would allow their conflicting views to drive a wedge between them.

"Yeah, we'll figure this out." Her voice echoed in the empty halls of the Palace, feet not even making any noise. "We cannot allow Corypheus to gain the upper hand. The fate of Thedas rides on what happens here tonight."

"Well, when ya put it tha' way..." Now it was Sera's turn to look nervous, causing the Inquisitor to let out a laugh as she covered her mouth with her hand.

"We'll succeed because we have to." Lavellan unsheathed her daggers, holding them out as she stalked her way back through the next door. They had no time to waste.

First Person

"She …. to …. Gaspard and the Empress?" I heard murmurs in the background but couldn't really decipher any of them fully, "No way!"

"Yes!"

Some giggles erupted and I noted how some people would sometimes look in my direction. The way their eyes were always hidden behind either a half-mask or a full mask always filled me with unease. Not being able to read people by staring at their facial features had me at a clear disadvantage.

I'd, at some point, made my way over toward a white couch with gold inlaid on the edges. The walls and statues, even the railings had gold on it. White and gold was a common theme in this palace, it seemed.

I forced the urge down to glare at the assholes standing in a small circle in front of me by the railing. That's all they really were, having nothing better to do than to try and make one another's lives more miserable. To claw their way up the social ladder and for what? I was positioned next to the plush and gaudy couch, but had stood up at some point upon feeling threatened. I flipped my fan out to appear 'shy', yet again. It was getting tiring. I just wanted to tear this damnable dress off and fall asleep in a soft bed somewhere.

'The Game' was like a tide, ebbing and flowing. Constantly changing and if I didn't keep up with it, I'd get swept away.

Much like what was happening currently. (Heh. Get it? Current-ly. No? Alright.)

It was almost like a slap to the face, but I'd barely been able to conceal my bafflement when a small group of people had surrounded me and began asking me questions. They were attempting to be friendly with me and it was making me nervous. What did they want? Were they trying to scope out my weakness? Were they trying to corner me?

What was worse, was that they had their faces almost completely covered by those blasted shiny silver masks. Their questions were rather pointless, if you ask me.

"So, Mistress of the Fade. What is your type?" Mistress of the – Jesus this shit was getting more ridiculous by the hour. The nosey woman wouldn't stop her incessant questioning.

I believe this is what humans did when they tried to bond with one another, was it not? Like, trying to form a friendship by making small talk? It was not something I was used to nor familiar with. I blinked at the woman, her mask only covering her eyes and nose as she stared at me with a gentle smile on her lips.

"T-Type?" I asked softly, still holding up my fan as a barrier of sorts. It was almost comforting. Perfectly sculpted lips curved into a soft smile, a fan of her own flipping around in front of her face.

"In men, of course." Nosey nodded enthusiastically and tacked on almost suggestively, "Or women?"

"Oh, you know. Tall. Blonde hair." I idly replied, trying not to commit much to the conversation. If I did, they would continue to ask such things. Apparently it wasn't a sufficient answer, because they kept bugging me.

Why the sudden change in attitude? Even the people who had been previously sending me judgmental glances or sometimes outright glares had begun to ignore me.

"Oh, but when they introduced you to the court – they spoke of another world. Is it true?" I tried not to show my suspicion. Shouldn't these people be afraid to even approach me? Why these questions, of all things to ask? Mages were feared and shunned in this world. In Orlais and Ferelden, as far as I knew. But not … oh. What if this person was Tevinter? A Venatori agent?

"Yes." Was my short reply in attempts to keep the fear from my tone, immediately putting up my guard.

"Please tell us more about this … place you come from, yes?"

"I am afraid that would take much too long. Perhaps over some tea sometime?" A rehearsed line that Vivienne had taught me. It came out flawlessly, thanks to her constant urging at me repeating it over and over. Among many others …

"I just may take you up on that offer." The woman smiled, but it almost appeared as if she were smirking. I swallowed and a few of the others had begun to talk, as well.

Some of the ladies began to comment on how exotic I looked because I was from another world. A total lie. Some said I looked cute. Another lie. Some asked if I was taken. Obviously, yes. The nature of this 'Game' that Lavellan and Vivienne tried to teach me made absolutely no sense.

What they had taught me didn't prepare me for this.

Hours ago I was scorned and looked down upon, now they were flocking. Well, flocking would hardly be the right term. Seeing as how only two or three had approached me thus far. More like surrounding me like wolves seeking out their next meal. Sharks circling their prey at the smell of blood.

The thought sent a shiver down my spine but I managed to keep it unseen.

What was funny, was that I noticed Cullen in a similar predicament. Though I think mine was because of my potential at gaining status in this world. Or whatever reason it was that they were suddenly surrounding me for. (I still think they might be Venatori). Cullen was being tormented for his good looks. Poor poor man.

Without much of a thought, I slowly made my way over to the man. He was surrounded by a group of his own, no other Inquisition agent in sight.

"D-did you just grab my bottom?" Cullen stuttered, looking as if he couldn't believe it actually happened.

A few giggles erupt from the girls and I scowled at how disrespectful they were. What a bunch of –

"Oh? What do we have here?" I forced a smile on my face on purpose to look creepy as I looked at the group. Cullen looked a little perturbed but noticed the small group behind me, light brown eyes widening in comprehension. "It seems you have some admirers, Cullen."

"I see you have a few of your own."

Probably not for the same reason as he, unfortunately. He is considered attractive, so therefore is able to attract people because of such. I, however, am only surrounded because of my status. Or what they believe may be my status, whatever that is. I still think they were probably Tevinter spies or Venatori agents.

"Oh my, is this the tall blonde haired man you spoke so fondly of?" Nosey asked, causing me to freeze in place. Oh, hell no. My head whipped in his direction, horror written on my features. She did not just –

Apparently they took my open expression as an affirmative.

"Scandalous! Commander Cullen and a mage?" A man gasped and I suppose my expressions weren't doing me any favors at this time. What was it that Josephine and Vivienne said about 'The Game' again? Oh, right. It was brutal. "But you are an ex-templar, are you not?"

I was about to throw down some brutal beatings, soon.

"Forbidden love." A rather short woman sighed dreamily, her fan flipping around in her face.

Okay seriously, now I wanted to punch something.

It must have showed, because a few of them took a couple of steps back. It was like they expected me to burst into flames if I got so much as irritated. And perhaps I would. I most certainly felt like I was going to, if my obvious outrage at the situation was anything to go by.

"Is this true, Commander? How long have you two been … courting, if I may be so bold?" A woman from his group asked, voice muffled behind a green porcelain mask. We weren't. We really weren't.

"W-Well, you see –" His smile faltered a little.

"No need to be shy about it." Shorty giggled and a few of the others nodded. I listened to them gossip amongst themselves, Cullen once and awhile trying to throw in his two cents. They either pretended not to notice or didn't care. Probably because of the promise of telling such a 'juicy' secret was too much to pass up. Again, I reiterate my statement, high school.

Though, I stared at his – obviously larger – group and my own as they spoke. If it were true … wouldn't they leave us be? My eyes slowly trailed over toward the Commander, who looked like he was trying his best to hold in a fart. Well, that's what his expression told me. Lips pressed into a firm line, face reddened (likely embarrassment), light-brown eyes flicking to and fro almost frantically as he searched for a way to worm out of the situation.

I already formulated a small plan to worm my way out of the situation, so I shuffled a little closer to the ex-templar and stared at him cautiously. The nobles, who were too preoccupied, didn't notice my slight movement. Cullen, however, did. The blonde haired man turned his head down to me curiously, eyes pleading for a way out as they blinked furiously. He was obviously very uncomfortable with these people and I couldn't help but feel sorry for him.

A smirk formed on my face as I flipped my fan out to appear 'shy'. Oh yes, dearest little warrior. I knew of a way to get these pests out of the way. If he simply escorted me away onto a balcony, they would be free to make their own conclusions but at least we'd be out of shark infested waters for a short time. I was positioned at such an angle that only he was able to see my true expression and nervousness won out as it flickered through his gaze for the briefest of seconds.

Little did I know, I would only make things much much worse.

"Oy. I think I might have an idea." I whispered lowly, making sure my mouth was concealed by the fan. "We must make a tactical retreat."

"What?" Blondie was confused and I suppressed the urge to sigh.

"Could you just -"

The sharks smelled blood.

"Oh my, what are you two whispering about over there?" Nosey refocused her attention on us, that ever present smile on her face. It was rather unsettling. Her statement caused a few of the others to pause in their talking and look over at us. I swallowed nervously. Fuck.

"It is nothing to concern yourself with, Madame." I heard Cullen's polite voice at my left, followed by the feeling of a hand coming around my arm just above my elbow. Don't touch me. Don't. Get off. My head turned in his direction and I suppressed the urge to rip my arm away from him.

This wasn't what I had planned.

It seemed the Commander was as awkward as ever, however. He fumbled for a moment before speaking again, "We must take our leave, however. I regret to inform you that-"

They seemed to speak over him, at that point. Some of them begging him to stay and talk. Others expressing their disdain.

I couldn't hear what it was that the people were saying, because my thoughts were so loud. I wanted to protest being too close to the blonde haired Commander, but feared worsening the predicament. I wanted to make disgusted noises and squirm away, especially when I felt him pull me against his side. Gods no. Please stop this madness.

Someone said something I couldn't hear and they all got quiet, my gaze turning toward them and I couldn't help the way my eyes hardened into a glare. I couldn't help how my lips twitched into a scowl or the way my face turned red from irritation.

The nights events were finally boiling and bubbling over and I felt a growl rumble in my chest and rip through my mouth, causing a few of the Orlesian nobles to skitter back and stare at me incredulously.

"Back. Off." My fan flipped closed with a loud 'SNAP!' and more of them jumped. No one dared to speak. "I need some fucking air."

Little did I know, my actions were construed as being jealous.

I promptly stomped off toward the balcony, hearing heavy footfalls following close behind. I swore I heard Cullen apologize somehow, but I wasn't even paying attention. This was ridiculous. Why was I even playing along with all of this nonsense?

"You do realize the rumors are going to get worse now because of this?" The Commander pointed out as I stood near a railing out on an empty balcony, guards standing just behind us quietly. They were in full plate armor and I couldn't see their faces. Figures. I couldn't see anyone's faces this evening.

"You were the one looking at me with those pleading eyes of yours!" I hissed and whirled around. He sputtered, looking down at me with possibly the reddish blush I'd ever seen on his face.

"I-I was not pleading!"

"Oh, then I suppose you were just batting your eyelashes at me." I spoke rather seriously before continuing on in a deep tone that imitated his own, although crappily. "M-Maker. You're a cute boy and all, Cullen. But you're just not my type."

I flipped my fan out and flapped it around in my face dramatically, turning my head to the side and trying to suppress a smile. It was pretty amusing, in my opinion, and it helped the nerves from minutes ago slowly calm. It had been his reaction when he'd seen Sera's fake love note from me.

When I dared to look back up at the Commander, he was staring at me like he didn't know whether to feel embarrassed or not. An eyebrow was raised and it appeared as though he may have been suppressing a smirk.

"That is not what I meant. I-It's just. Maker, those women were relentless." He sighed dramatically, his hand running through his hair. "Though I must offer my thanks."

"Even though I totally fucked everything over." I shrugged and turned away, out toward the gardens. "Should have known that would happen."

I could have sworn, just then, I heard some screaming in the Ballroom. Shrugging it off, I simply stood outside and took some deep breaths. My hands clasped onto the cold stone that made up the railing of the balcony, overlooking a massive garden. I'm sure that if it were daytime, it would be full of lush greenery but instead was bathed in the blue hues offered by the moonlight.

Though this solace could not last forever, after all. Hiding on the balcony was hardly the way to solve our problems. So I clasped my hands behind my back and twirled around, feeling my dress and hair shift with the sudden movement, and faced the blonde Commander with a smirk on my face.

"Do you wanna chance going back to mingle with the wolves?" I offered, breaking him out of his own reverie as he stared out somewhere I could not see.

"R-Right, well -" He sounded as apprehensive as I felt about the idea of returning, his hands coming up to pull on his collar nervously. "We can't very well hide from them all night, can we?"

"Unfortunately."

"Indeed."

As we returned, Cullen slinking off so that he was lingering close to Josephine and Leliana this time, I stood next to the railing overlooking the Ballroom floor. People twirled and danced in sync. How they were able to do so was beyond me. Dancing was not something I indulged myself in. Vivienne and Lavellan had insisted I take dance lessons, but I'd told them I wouldn't be dancing anyway. It didn't really interest me at all.

My eyes trailed over the railing on the opposite side, seeing a rather large pink and blue splatter on the wall. My brows rose and I squinted, trying to get a better look. What had happened? Was that why people were screaming earlier? There was a woman crying somewhere off in the distance and I tried to locate her and when I did I almost cackled openly. The woman's dress was completely covered in the aforementioned paint. Now, I wonder who had done that?

Guess Sera wasn't kidding around when she said she would do something just to show me she could, without getting caught. Since I'd called bullshit on her story about the nobleman back at Skyhold. The culprit hadn't been found. Yet. We'll see what happens.

The night continued as planned, only I saw someone approaching the Empress as she stood in the middle where she'd previously made her speech.

"Her Imperial Majesty will now address the court." A man announced, bowing and allowing the woman in the gaudy blue dress to step forth, a gold sunburst shield of some sort sprouting out of her back like wings. She began to make a speech, which was your standard speech about the horrible goings on in the world as of late. Oh, so now we're addressing this?

A woman in a mask strode toward the Empress in angry strides and her speech was interrupted when Lavellan yelled, "Grand Duchess, stand down!"

Inquisition soldiers surrounded the suspicious woman, only to get cut down with swift ease. The Duchess was obviously well trained. Bodies fell to the floor in quick succession, swords clanging as they skittered across the tiles. The woman pointed dramatically.

"Now!" Her voice rang throughout the hall, followed by some gasps as everything erupted in a sudden flurry of movement.

I heard something about Corypheus, but I was distracted by the uproar of sound that filtered through my ears just then.

There was screaming, for one. My eyes were darting around the room frantically, seeing some of the Inquisition scouts getting killed left and right. I hadn't noticed until it happened that one of the enemies were behind me. I gasped when I felt someone grab me and begin to pull me toward a balcony, hand clamped over my mouth.

"So, how about that tea?" A woman's voice floated through my left ear in a seductive tone, followed by a dark chuckle. I recognized it as the nosey woman from earlier.

Fuck this shit.

I jabbed the woman in the stomach with the blunt end of the metal fan I carried with me all night. The woman grunted, but soon cried out as I pushed the button and sent the razor sharp edges into her soft torso. Whatever light armor she had on underneath the dress was completely shredded as it bypassed and went into her. I knew this, because when I was released I saw her starting to bleed. Her dress starting to stain with her life force as she stared down at it in shock, obviously not having expected me to be armed. She'd likely scoped me out to make sure.

Thankfully the fan had been so inconspicuous, even a spy couldn't spot it.

The woman didn't have enough time to recover, because I swung my arm and aimed for her neck. It was a clean cut, sending the coppery substance into an almost beautiful arc as it flew to the side and hit someone in the face. There was more screaming and the woman that had gotten the fluid on her face fainted.

There was blood. Lots of blood. But that wasn't on my mind, only the thought that I wanted to live. I didn't want to get taken and killed. Or whatever the hell they wanted to do to me. My heart thudded relentlessly in my chest as adrenaline shot through my body. My brown eyes darted around frantically, looking for more danger.

Some of the nearby nobles screamed and formed a wide berth around me as I flipped around cautiously. I hadn't even noticed the red substance that now stained the bottom of my dress and pooled on the floor beneath my feet.

"Get the girl!" I recognized the voice as another one of the people from the small group that had been following me around and asking me questions. I let out an irritated groan. I knew it! I fucking called it. No one tried to 'befriend' so quickly without ulterior motives, you see? Were all of them Venatori agents waiting for a time to strike?

The thought sent something in my chest ablaze as fury took hold.

"I'm so fucking sick of this shit!" I blurted rather loudly, hearing my voice echo above some of the yells and sounds of people squabbling about what was going on.

Two men were making their way toward me and I raised my fan in their direction, only to see them get engulfed in flames. Smoke billowed into the air and I smelled burnt leather almost instantly, one of them clawing at his face to try and get his hood off. They started to scream and I bolted forward without a word, kicking one of them off of the ledge and onto the ballroom floor.

I turned to look at the last man, only to see that there wasn't just one man – but three. Three. What? They're like insects! You kill one, two more appear!

I let out another audible groan as I repositioned myself in a defensive stance, getting ready to dodge until help arrived. Though I knew how unlikely it would be for me to come out of this unscathed, since I was in this damn dress.

Metallic glints appeared in my peripheral, flying passed my head and toward the men in front of me. I heard the wet noises it made as the throwing knives were embedded into their skulls.

The other man let out an enraged yell, lunging forward to try and tackle me. The pommel of his sword had been aimed at my stomach but I'd been able to strafe to the side and duck out of the way. He was turning to come at me again when it almost appeared as if his neck exploded, blood spewing forth in a small spray.

No, seriously. Was that what it looked like when I stabbed the Venatori man all those months ago? My vision blurred and I could feel the sick feeling roiling in my stomach at the sight as the man fell into a heap onto the ground.

Leliana had been the one to do it and she turned to look at me casually, as if it were the most normal thing in the world. And just like that, another rogue appeared right beside her with a few throwing knives positioned between his fingers. Cole.

At least Cole seemed to have more emotion than the Spymaster as she slowly approached me, her stride graceful as she held herself high.

It didn't go unnoticed by me that Dorian, amongst the crowd of faces behind the Spymaster, gave me a thumbs up and went on with his business. Clever man. Apparently he had known, too. That would also explain the fire.

"I suspected as much."

"You knew?! What is it with people and knowing more about my imminent demise than myself?" I grumbled in response to Leliana's statement.

"You would have given yourself away." She stated matter-of-factly, her expression giving nothing away. "If it is any consolation, I didn't even inform the Inquisitor."

The Spymaster looked me over before nodding and turning to look out at the, now quiet, Ballroom. The battle was swift and some people began to flock near the doors to have a look at the Inquisitor as she fought the Duchess in the back courtyard. Cullen was ordering his men to keep the stupid nobles from going out there and possibly getting themselves killed.

"You should get that looked at." I heard Leliana speak before she strode off, my eyes blinked confusedly as I focused on where she'd pointed before she left. My arm, yet again, had a rather large cut in it just above the elbow. My hand came up and I rubbed my jaw, which felt kind of tender, from where I'd had a hand clamped over just moments ago.

I turned, seeing Cole standing right next to me with a worried look in his eyes.

"We kind of turned them into … minced meat. I'm fine, see?" I tried not to focus on any of the dead bodies laying nearby, blood pooling around on the ground not far away. Especially the rather charred looking man laying by the railing overlooking the dance floor, his head turned to the side to reveal his face behind a cracked mask. I looked away, feeling a wave of nausea burst forth.

The next thing I knew, I was being lead out onto a balcony. The crisp cool air that hit my lungs was like a remedy for it, breathing slowing down and heart rate calming. At this rate, I'd have grey hairs by the time the night was over.

I winced when I felt something dab at my wound gently, arm stinging as Cole cleaned it off before beginning to tie what was left of the fabric around it. It looked like it'd once been a handkerchief of some sort, which was now torn and being used as such.

"I'm sorry." His voice sounded almost flat as I stared down at my bandaged wound.

"You've got nothing to be sorry for. Obviously you were busy." I sighed and his hands fell to his sides, a frown marring his features. "You can't protect me from everything. I …"

My eyes wandered as I focused on anything but his guilt stricken face. Seeing him like that made me feel guilty, too. For not being able to fully defend myself, yet. It seemed like I was merely baggage that was being dragged around and despite my efforts, I was still dead weight.

"You're not." I felt Cole's hand brush the side of my face as he tucked a strand of my hair behind my ear, "Fumbling, inexperienced and new … but not dead weight. You're trying and you will get better."

"I – yes … yes I will." Was my quiet response as he lowered his hand and I shifted, feeling uncomfortable in the dress. Cole looked just as, if not more, uncomfortable in his ensemble than I did. His hands constantly fidgeted and they finally came up to rest on his wooden pendent, movements slowly calming. We sat there for what seemed to be minutes, before the sounds of people walking around and chatting started up again.

The moon that night seemed to cast an almost ethereal glow on him, making his white-blond hair appear almost silver. It was quite a beautiful sight. I was silently grateful that it was a clear night out which allowed such a rare opportunity. The balcony we were on was unoccupied, everyone else being in the Ballroom celebrating or gossiping about the nights events.

"Would you li-like … to..." Cole's voice faded out and I couldn't hear what he'd asked. I blinked, staring up at his flustered face in confusion. It wasn't like the music inside of the Ballroom was all that loud, being only a dull hum at that point. We completely ignored the speeches that had been made, preferring to stay alone out here instead. I'd hear about the results later, anyway.

"What?" I questioned and waited for him to repeat himself. If possible at all, he seemed to almost get more nervous by the second.

"W-Would –" His hands clasped onto his pendant and he made eye contact with me, fierce blue met confused brown. "Would youliketodance?"

"I – Ah. Err..." It took awhile for my brain to process the words, since they'd been said so quickly, before realization dawned on my face. Oooh. He wanted to dance? With me? I think I'd mentioned before how it hadn't interested me, but with the way his eyes were alight with hope and his face expressing just how flustered he was. I could practically feel my heart melt at the sight before me. "Yes.."

He was the exception for many things, it seemed.

I squeaked when I felt his hands clasp around mine, pulling me against him. He smiled so widely that I could see his teeth, the simple action lighting up his face completely. It reached his eyes and – oh. My stomach fluttered and I averted my gaze. It was almost painful, just how handsome he looked with such a simple action.

"I don't know how to... dance." I muttered disdainfully, feeling regret at the fact that I'd outright denied Vivienne and Lavellan's lessons.

"I'll show you!" Cole chirped, fingers intertwining with mine. We fumbled around a little – well I fumbled around and stepped on his toes more times than I could count. Every time, I felt the blush on my face getting redder and redder. But it didn't deter him at all as he spoke in a low soothing tone, explaining the right steps and what to do. I couldn't help but feel almost inadequate and self-conscious at how bad I was doing.

It was not something I'd imagined myself ever doing, that was for sure. But there I was, dancing out on the balcony under the moon. Would that be considered romantic? Perhaps, but that wasn't on my mind. Not at all. Though I did wonder ….

"How … I mean. Where did you learn how to dance?" I finally gathered the courage to voice my question, face still burning in embarrassment. Either he pretended not to notice or was preoccupied.

"Dorian showed me." He answered and I pulled away slightly to get a look at his face. I knew the Tevinter had been up to something!

"That damn meddling mage..."

"It's harder, trying to listen to my feet and you at the same time. Tap tap, step to the beat … remember not to step on her feet. But –" He paused and I couldn't help the smile that slipped it's way on my face. He was so cute. Cole's voice was filled with wonder, "–You're really pretty when you smile."

Ah, now it was my turn to appear bashful. I leaned forward and my face practically buried itself into his chest, feeling it rumble in response. Was it funny?

That's when I noticed how we swayed and stepped, his arms finally slipped around me casually to keep me nearby. We weren't even dancing to the beat of the song playing in the Ballroom. Cole began to hum quietly, his head resting on the crown of my head. It was the same tune I often heard him hum whenever I couldn't sleep or when he wanted to calm me down.

And it worked, my shoulders loosening as I nuzzled against him affectionately.

"What is that song you're always humming?" I murmured quietly, movement slowing to a stop. That wasn't all that stopped, however. The humming had died down and I was almost disappointed.

"You."

"W-what?" I was confused at his short answer, hoping he'd at least elaborate.

"You sing a song that my heart calls out to." Cole continued, "It's … beautiful."

"My song?"

"In here." We broke apart briefly and he placed his hands on the middle of my chest, his eyes never leaving mine. I felt my heart squeeze and pick up it's pace, causing his smile to widen. I idly wondered if smiling that much hurt his cheeks.

My hand came up to cup his cheek, fingertips grazing his hair just beneath his earlobe. We'd done this many times already, but I still couldn't control the way my breathing hitched as he leaned closer. Or the way my stomach rolled and my nerves seemed to make me tremble. I felt him place his hand over mine, the other trailing slowly up from my chest into my wavy hair and pulling me closer.

It was times like this that I'd feel it echoing inside of me, those three words that I was always much too afraid to say. I'd never said it to anyone before, only to family back when I was younger. Never – and it frightened me to no end. Though I'm certain he knew, seeing or feeling the 'ripples' as he called them.

When our lips met, I was greeted with the familiar hair-raising sensation – like static? No, maybe electricity. That still hadn't gone away, even though I'd heard about how it would over time. It didn't matter.

It was something that I had a hard time saying, but could at least convey like this. Allowing him to feel and hear from within. It was surprising that I even allowed someone to get this close to me, nonetheless someone with an ability like Cole's. I may as well have allowed him into my soul. I found that I didn't mind.

"I... I love you" When we parted, it had slipped out of my mouth before I could think twice. Though I meant every word. My eyes flicked down to the stone beneath us, shifting on my feet.

I meant it so much it almost physically hurt. But saying it had made me feel better. How was that possible? I felt him freeze, movements completely stopping and my stomach rolled. Fear of rejection surfaced. Even though, subconsciously, I knew how ridiculous that was. But it was still there; the digging, ripping fear of abandonment. Of driving him away. Watching him leave would be …

Those thoughts dissolved when he wrapped his arms around my shoulders and pulled me into what could only be described as a 'bear hug'. I was squeezed so tightly I squeaked like a squeaky toy, cheek resting on his shoulder.

"I l-love you, too." Cole's voice shook slightly from elation and my heart lifted, fingers gripping the back of his suit as if he'd disappear any second. He made a noise in the back of his throat, "I'd never leave you. I'd never hurt you. Don't worry, Lyn."

"I know, I'm sorry."

Besides what had happened at the end of that evening out on the balcony, the Ball had been complete and utter shit. Many of the nobles would probably disagree with that statement, but who was I to judge? Hell, Dorian would probably comment about it reminding him of home. It made me curious about Tevinter. My opinion was mine.

On the upside, I did end up being able to gather some information that I could write up in a report for Leliana. I'd decided to at least try to be productive instead of just standing around and trying to 'mingle' like they'd told me to. So, most of my time spent had been wandering around idly listening to conversation. Last names stuck in my mind, followed by some scandalous things I'd overheard during my trek through the room. Did you know one man was trying to get married to his dog? Weirdos, I say.

Unfortunately, it didn't seem that I would have time that night to write my report that night. Not that I minded. Not at all.

Extra chapter that occurs between this one and the next posted on AO3 account because it would be 'too mature' for fanfiction . net standards. Better safe than sorry, I always say. Now excuse me whilst I hide underneath this rock over here.