Last minute instructions had been given to the officers that would remain at Skyhold. Leliana had given her last orders to any agents that had returned before our departure. Josephine handed me a pile of papers before stepping in to the carriage Leliana and I would share, final lists of the attendees and who I would likely end up speaking to. Leliana would quiz me for two days solid so I would learn all I could about them. Cullen had his soldiers ready to march, armour shining in the sun, all of them well groomed, clothing clean, weapons and shields polished. All those of the inner circle had their dress uniform ready to change into once we arrived in Halamshiral. For now, they would travel by horseback in their armour.

The Inquisition would be descending upon the former capital of the Elven people in number. The gates of Skyhold would be closed up tight while we were gone, with orders for doubling of the guard and to limit he numbers coming and going each day. I didn't want to come back to a fortress under attack, or even worse, with walls crumbling and on fire, though we were now of the firm belief that Corypheus had no idea where we actually were. People no doubt spoke of Skyhold, plenty of people did know where it was, but with Corypheus apparently doing his own thing, he seemed to be ignoring everything we did. Perhaps, having taken out many of his pawns, he didn't believe he had the power to throw what he had remaining at our walls.

Leliana and I were on our own carriage, as we had agreed while… doing other things a couple of days earlier. Josephine and Evelyn were in the other carriage. Cassandra had been offered a seat, but she was happy riding alongside Cullen and the rest of our companions. Spending two days in a carriage with Leliana was always good fun. We could always find topics to talk about, most of the time reminiscing about times passed, though we would happily discuss the future as well. We also spent hours working, and Leliana at least made it fun for me. She would question me about what I had learned. For every question I got right, she removed clothing. For every question I got wrong, clothing was replaced. When she was finally without clothing, we could both have some fun.

I managed to get her naked more than once during our two-day journey. Sex in the back of a carriage is awkward at best. She would either end up lying awkward against the side, though we found me sitting down with her straddling my lap worked best, though she did bump her head more than once, though that just led to giggles on her part.

Our arrival in Halamshiral definitely gained attention, as the carriage carried us all the way to a mansion that Leliana had organised for us as a base during our visit. Word had been sent of our imminent arrival, a virtual army waiting to help us into the mansion, as we would all require a wash, preening, last minute haircuts and shaves, before we could begin our preparations for the final part of our journey towards the Winter Palace.

Having never visited the city before, I did pull back the curtains to see a surprise. It was pretty much like Val Royeaux. It did lack some of the grandeur but you knew you were still in Orlais. I expected to see signs that this had once been an elven city but it seemed like any signs had long been torn down. In the carriage heading towards the Winter Palace, Leliana managed to look resplendent even when wearing the same uniform as me. The coat was tight to her body, and the trousers made her legs look better than ever. I was definitely checking her out when she asked, "Uhtred?"

"Huh?"

She giggled. "Am I really that distracting?"

"Are you really asking that question?"

"Okay, key players. Who are they?"

"Empress Celene. Grand Duke Gaspard. Grand Duchess Florianne. And someone I shouldn't know all that much about. Ambassador Briala, who holds the similar position you do as spymaster, and in another similarity, is a sometime lover of the Empress. Well, you're not a 'sometime' lover at least."

"The purpose of this ball?"

"On the surface, there will be peace talks between Celene and Gaspard. The Inquisition has been invited by Grand Duke Gaspard, no doubt due to Celene's hesitancy in making her opinion publicly known in regards to our presence on her lands. Of course, the real reason for the ball is that we will be allying with Celene in regards to the threat to us all, but Gaspard does not need know that yet."

"And the real threat, if we ignore Corypheus?"

"There is an assassin after Empress Celene. We don't know who it is. Any attempt to contact her in regards to the threat hasn't reached her. I don't believe such a threat would be ignored if it came from us, considering our influence. No, other parties are in play."

"Ideas?"

"Gaspard is behind it, obviously."

"Tell me about Celene."

"Never met her. Spoken to anyone I could about her. I've generally been told and read good things. Reformer, has tried to help the elves, though what she did here in this very city would go against that. Has attempted other reforms, and tried to keep the peace. Many appreciate that. Others, such as Gaspard, see it as a weakness, expecting Orlais to continually seek expansion, no doubt dreaming of the glory years of the Empire. One problem is the lack of an heir. If she dies before either nominating one, or even giving birth, Orlais is thrown into chaos." I paused before adding. "I'm aware of the lines of communication between Celene and Cailan. A united kingdom would have been of benefit to both countries, though would have been unpopular in certain circles."

"Tell me about Gaspard."

"Well, from all that I've read, he should be emperor. First cousin to Celene, he was first in line to the throne when Emperor Florian died. Celene proved to be a better player of the Game, and convinced the Council of Heralds to give her the crown over him. Obviously, he was left rather bitter, frustrated and angry. That explains the War of the Lions. He is well loved by his troops, which is why many chose to follow him in rebellion. Celene was left scurrying for support when the chevaliers threw their weight behind Gaspard."

"And now Briala."

"Not much is known about her, information gained from getting to know Celene's inner circle. She technically holds the position of ambassador, but is in control of the entire Orlesian spy network. In addition, she has the loyalty of nearly elven man and woman in Orlais. She is a former lover of Celene, the two falling out over what happened here. She has been invited by Celene to help bring the elven onto her side against Gaspard, with eyes on the future too."

"If the rumour were to spread about her former relationship with Celene, Uhtred, it is something that would destroy her and give Gaspard the keys to the castle, so to speak."

"Are we honestly looking to blackmail her?" She gave me a look. "Oh, I love it when you're in this mood. No blood. Just bending people to your will." That made her laugh before leaning over to kiss my cheek. "Any more questions?"

"Tell me about Florianne."

"Though she has organised these peace talks, there is less information about her than the others. Younger sister of Grand Duke Gaspard, daughter of Duke Theodore de Chalons and Grand Duchess Melisande Valmont, cousin to Empress Celene. Appears in public events but her private affairs are exactly that. Rumours are that she has worked tirelessly to ensure Gaspard took the throne. Further rumours are that she is the mastermind behind the courtly intrigue against Empress Celene. Gaspard does the fighting, Florianne is the kingmaker, so to speak."

"Last question, Uhtred. Best outcome for tonight?"

"Celene remains in charge. Gaspard is brought to heel. Whatever Briala is up to is discovered and she's dealt with. I don't believe Florianne is particularly important in the grand scheme, though should be watched regardless."

"You believe she is behind all this? Briala?"

"It'll be either her or Florianne, they would be the main suspects, unless there is some other noble with an axe to grind. There is no doubt a long list of nobles itching to earn the favour of Gaspard, but he is a soldier, he wouldn't do it by sticking a dagger in her back."

She leaned over to kiss my cheek again. "You've done so well, my love."

"And I love it when you call me that."

Grabbing my hand, she shuffled over to lean against me. Once we were out of the carriage, there would need to be distance. Everyone at Skyhold knew of our romance and the fact we both had other lovers. But she warned that it would be somewhat scandalous if any of my romances became common knowledge, though that didn't mean I wouldn't get my dance with her or the others later that evening.

Finally pulling up at the gates, I was getting ready to put on my ridiculous mask when Leliana gently grabbed my wrist. "No. Don't. I want them to read your face at least."

"And the Game?"

"It can be played. Let them see your face, Inquisitor. It will show you are above them in many ways, a simple act of defiance."

I leaned forward, gently pressing my lips against hers. "I love you."

"And I love you, Uhtred. Now, one last thing before we get out."

"Anything."

"Ensure Celene survives tonight. Orlais under her rule is a better place to be. Gaspard is looking for an alliance with us. A brilliant general, yes. As ruler of the entire nation, no."

"Personal or professional opinion?"

"Both, Uhtred."

"Okay. Message heard, loud and clear."

A servant stepped forward to open the carriage door, stepping out before helping Leliana down. Our carriage had been escorted by our soldiers, half a dozen of them getting in formation as other carriages carrying my colleagues lined up, emptying out their occupants. We were all dressed in similar shirts, trousers, boots and coats, though there were small additions made to each to reflect who each person might be representing. Blackwall and Bethany wore Warden medallions, Leliana and Cassandra those of the Chantry, Cullen one of the Inquisition.

Once everyone was together, the soldiers led us into the ground of the Winter Palace, which was simply enormous. The royal palace in Denerim was a garden shed compared to it. I had only ever seen the Imperial Palace in Val Royeaux from a distance, and even that seemed to pale into comparison compared to the magnificence of the building in front of me. Simply breath-taking.

"Close your mouth, Uhtred," Leliana whispered.

"Sorry. It's just… beautiful." The gardens alone, even in the fading evening light, were the colours of the rainbow. Flowers providing a kaleidoscope of colour. I was now regretting not visiting the city during one of my earlier trips into Orlais. Even if they had not let me in, I would have been happy standing at the gates, simply gazing through the metal bars.

Our arrival definitely gained attention, noticing the looks of many guests around us. They were all nobility, dressed in the usual clothing I'd seen them wear either at Skyhold or around Val Royeaux, most of them also wearing masks, for which I would be forever thankful to Leliana for allowing me not to wear that evening.

Ahead was an enormous fountain, water spraying into the air, statues of winged lions around it, and past it strode a man wearing Orlesian Imperial Army dress uniform. Though the top half of his face was covered, the bottom half was exposed and I could see the grin. "Inquisitor Dragonborn! We meet at last! I've heard so much about you." I walked forward, and when he offered his hand, I shook it. "The rumours coming out of the Western Approach say you battled an army of demons. Imagine what the Inquisition could accomplish with the full support of the rightful Emperor of Orlais!"

I glanced at Leliana for only a second before looking back at Gaspard. "Delighted to meet you, Duke Gaspard. The only question I have is… who is the rightful ruler of Orlais?"

He smirked. "If we keep watch, he may appear. Probably by the brandy."

"Well, he is a man of taste, at least."

Leliana stifled a giggle by clearing her throat. "I am not a man who forgets his friends, Inquisitor. You help me, I'll help you." He gestured for us to walk towards the fountain, gesturing towards the stairs that would lead into the foyer and eventually the main ballroom. "Prepared to shock the assembly by appearing as the guest of the hateful usurper, my lord? They will be telling stories of this into the next age."

"I'm sure I can find one person in particular to write an entire series of novels about tonight alone."

"Ha! It is good you have many friends, Inquisitor, and I pray you would like one more. As a new friend, perhaps there is a matter you could undertake this evening." I sensed Leliana step closer to listen in. "This elven woman, Briala… I suspect that she intends to disrupt the negotiations. My people have found these 'ambassadors' all over the fortifications. Sabotage seems the least of their crimes.

"Elves were behaving dodgy? There has to be more to go on than that."

"There is. Briala used to be a servant of Celene's. That is, until my cousin had her arrested for crimes against the empire to cover up a political mistake. If anyone in this room wishes Celene harm, Inquisitor, it's that elf. She certainly has reason."

"And you don't?"

"Me? No, Inquisitor. I wished to see her armies vanquished. Assassination is not how I play this Game." He scoffed. "I detest the Game, always have, but if we do not play it well, our enemies will make us look like villains. I merely want is mine by right, Inquisitor. Celene may live, she may die. All will be solved by the end of the ball." He cleared his throat. "Well, enough of that. We can't keep them waiting. Shall we, Inquisitor?"

He disappeared, ready to meet us inside before entrance into the ballroom. I gathered everyone around, Leliana not having missed a word. "He was rather honest, Leliana."

"As he said, he hates the Game, and knows you would expect the truth. At least we know his intentions now."

I looked at Cullen. "Your men are ready to move?"

"They are, Inquisitor."

"Weapons?"

"Have been placed where needed."

I looked at Cassandra. "You're in charge of the squad tonight, Cassandra. I get any tips, you will take a small team and investigate. Return with anything you deem important and we'll work with it. But I can't go disappearing every few minutes on some wild goose chase. I'll work the room with Leliana, Josephine and Cullen. Those who remain behind while you work are an added distraction." I took a deep breath. "Okay, are we ready to move?"

"Yes, Inquisitor."

"One last thing, Uhtred," Leliana stated, "The most important thing you can do tonight is win over the court. Bring them to your side. So again, it is what you say, how you act, how you react that will be judged. Many will know of you already, not just as the Inquisitor. Things such as being a veteran of the Fifth Blight will put your name in good standing. Your involvement in events in Kirkwall, not so much. Not enough to cancel out being a veteran, but it will take away some of their good graces. Many may have read stories about you and your life. To many, you are more a myth, a legend, rather than a real man. It is whether you meet their expectations which could end up deciding if they will support us or not."

We didn't enter straight away, Leliana and Josephine suggesting we spend a few minutes mingling with other guests. Despite not being there together, Leliana never left my side, helping guide me to the right people to speak to, and she seemed to know nearly everyone after introductions had been made, asking about the health of spouses, children or parents, and any news she may have heard. She was in her element, and I simply took guidance from her when necessary. Others, such as Varric and Sera, disappeared into the crowds, no doubt listening out for any gossip we could use later. With so many guests with their own hidden agendas, I knew Leliana and Josephine would use anything they learned to squeeze certain people at a later date.

After mingling for a few minutes, Leliana led me up the stairs to the entrance of the palace itself. It was only there that Josephine approached us. It was a last minute warning about what to expect, which I already knew, but I took the advice on board as always, as she knew that I was honestly out of my depth with all this.

Just the hallway was magnificent. Marble columns. Large paintings of previous rulers, Andraste, and other figures from history. Statues of Andraste and previous rulers of Orlais. The floor was tiled, barely a scratch on the surface.

Entering the foyer, Leliana made a subtle joke about it actually being a vestibule. I had no idea what the latter even was. Leliana seemed to realise straight away I wouldn't get the joke, suggesting it was something nobles in Orlais constantly argued about. I could only roll my eyes, earning a cover of her mouth as she laughed. I leaned closed to her ear. "Remember. Me, barbarian," I whispered.

"My barbarian," she whispered back.

I could see Gaspard waiting for us rather impatiently by the door that would lead us into the grand ballroom. Leliana whispered 'Another five minutes', glancing to see our companions spread out, beginning short conversations with the noblemen and women who were either waiting to enter themselves, or were taking a breather from whatever was taking place inside.

Leliana eventually touched my elbow and gestured, our group gathering near Gaspard, who asked if we were ready to enter. After telling him we were, the guards opened the double doors and we entered a room of absolute splendour upon first appearances. We were greeted by who Leliana told me was the Herald of the Ball, who would announce us all to Empress Celene and the other guests.

A row of guards walked to the balustrade, where they blew into instruments that gained the attention of the assembled guests. After clearing his throat, the herald began to announce us.

"Honoured guests, presenting:

Grand Duke Gaspard de Chalons. Accompanying him…" I was surprised he wasn't given a series of titles, but I guess with the civil war, he wouldn't find many favours in the Winter Palace that evening.

"Lord Inquisitor Dragonborn, origin; the nation of Skyrim, Tamriel. Veteran of the Fifth Blight. Defender of Kirkwall. Defender of the Circle of Magi. Shepherd and leash of the wayward Order of Templars, purger of the heretics from the ranks of the faithful!"

It was only then that Empress Celene made her appearance at the other end of the ballroom as I walked down towards the main floor. I bowed in her direction as shown to by Leliana. Even at the distance, I could see her bow her head in my direction.

Lined up for introductions were the rest of my companions, with Evelyn walking forward first.

"Lady Trevelyan, of the Ostwick Circle of Magi! Champion of the Blessed Andraste herself!"

Evelyn definitely gained attention immediately, with plenty of hushed whispers. She glanced my way and smiled. She would certainly be more used to this than I was. The rest followed, with one or two amusing asides from what he'd been instructed to say:

"Madame Vivienne, First Enchanter of the Circle of Magi, Enchanter of the Imperial Court, Mistress of the Duke of Ghislain." I was surprised she had no problem with the final part being announced to everyone, though I guess it was one of those open secrets. She had been open and honest about her life so far with me. We'd had our disagreements over magic and the Circles, but I think I had her respect because I stood behind my opinions.

"The Iron Bull, leader of the famed mercenary company Bull's Chargers. As the name might imply." Bull did not look like he enjoyed being dressed up. But I think he was going to enjoy the company. He had only one warning. Don't drink too much.

"The Lord Inquisitor's elven serving man, Solas." We didn't really know what to say about Solas, and to get him inside, Leliana suggested we state he was my personal servant. We told Solas, and understanding the reason, he didn't mind. I told both of them I found it insulting to him. I think I went up in his estimation on that fact alone, suggesting if they wanted a serving man, I'd have brought Gawen. He would have loved a night like this.

"Warden Blackwall of Val Chevin, Constable of the Grey. Bearer of the Silverite Wings of Valour. Warden Hawke of Lothering, Commander of the Grey." The pair walked forward together, hearing the whispers from the surrounding guests. Gaspard had obviously heard the rumours of what transpired at Adamant Fortress. We had tried to suppress as much as possible, but we knew word would get out eventually.

"Her Ladyship Mai Bhalsych of Korse." I repeated that and couldn't help glare. Evelyn was doing her best not to laugh. I looked at Leliana, who returned a helpless shrug. I could do nothing but sigh, and hope no-one else figured it out too quickly.

"Seeker Cassandra Allegra Portia Calogera Filomena–

"Get on with it!" Cassandra muttered.

"Pentaghast. Fourteenth cousin to the King of Nevarra, nine times removed. Hero of Orlais, Right Hand of the Divine." I had no idea Cassandra had so many names, and it did lead to some amusement from most of my companions. She just muttered again for all of us to shut up.

"Renowned author Varric Tethras. Head of noble House Tethras, deshyr of Kirkwall to the Dwarven Merchants Guild." Varric? Nobility? Since when?

"Lord Dorian Pavus, member of the Circle of Vyrantium, son of Lord Magister Halward Pavus of Asariel." I thought there would have been stony silence upon his introduction, but apart from perhaps one or two comments, he simply walked forward and bowed like the rest.

"Ser Cullen Stanton Rutherford of Honnleath. Commander of the forces of the Inquisition. Former Knight-Commander of Kirkwall." Soldier. All soldier. And I saw more than one-woman swoon as he stood at attention, waiting for the introductions to finish. Hawke whispered something to Blackwall, the normally stoic man almost breaking into laughter, so it was obviously something rather inappropriate.

"Lady Leliana, Nightingale of the Imperial Court. Veteran of the Fifth Blight. Seneschal of the Inquisition and Left Hand of the Divine. Mistress to the Lord Inquisitor." Everyone looked at me. I looked at Leliana. She walked forward and bowed, not glancing my way, though I saw the slight smile on her face.

"So much for no-one knowing!" I joked to myself.

"And Lady Josephine Cherette Montilyet of Antiva City, Ambassador of the Inquisition."

Announcements over, there was further protocol to follow as we walked across the ballroom floor under the watchful gaze of the other guests. Celene remained in position and she was watching myself and Gaspard in particular. I'd never met her, never seen her. The closer I got, the more I realised that, without the ridiculous mask, she might have been a real beauty. The woman standing beside her, I didn't know at all but figured I'd find out soon enough.

"Cousin. My dear sister," Gaspard stated. So it was Florianne. Interesting that she was that close.

"Grand Duke. We are always honoured when your presence graces our court," Celene stated. A whiff of an accent but her voice was silk. I bet she used that alone to get people to do her bidding.

Gaspard proved immediately he wasn't interested in the Game. "Don't waste my time with pleasantries, Celene. We have business to conclude."

Celene smiled, as if Gaspard was a naughty child earning the disapproval of his mother, though understanding his naughty behaviour at the same time. "We will meet for negotiations after we have seen to our other guests." Gaspard simply bowed and walked off to the left, leaving me alone. Her eyes now fell on me alone. So did, I reckon, all other eyes in the ballroom. "Lord Inquisitor, we welcome you to the Winter Palace. Allow us to present our cousin, the Grand Duchess of Lydes, without whom this gathering would never have been possible."

She returned a courteous bow. No smile though. "What an unexpected pleasure. I was not aware the Inquisition would be part of our festivities." Ah, that explained the lack of smile. Perhaps she was worried. "We will certainly speak later, Inquisitor." And, like Gaspard, she walked off to the side, leaving Celene alone. I found it interesting she spoke to me from her position, higher than myself. Leliana suggested she would greet me like that, reinforcing the fact she was empress, I was only the Inquisitor.

"Your arrival at court is like a cool wind on a summer's day."

"I am delighted to be here, Your Majesty." Leliana's instruction. Keep everything simple to start with. Smile, be polite, the Game has started but won't be played in earnest so quickly.

"We have heard much of your exploits, Inquisitor. They have made grand tales for long evenings. How do you find Halamshiral?"

"I have no words that can do the city justice, Your Majesty. It is simply a magnificent, beautiful city, and the Winter Palace is its crowning glory."

"Your modesty does you credit, and speaks well for the Inquisition. Feel free to enjoy the pleasures of the ballroom, Inquisitor. We look forward to watching you dance." I bowed as she turned to walk away, pleased that bit was over at least. Walking up the nearby stairs, I released a deep breath, gave my body an all over shake. I hadn't realised I'd been so tense.

As I made my way up to the floor ringing the balcony, Leliana walked close to me. "We need to talk," she whispered.

"And I have a question too." She smiled. No, it wasn't just a smile. I think it was relief that the secret was out. Everyone in Skyhold had known. Now that the nobles of Orlais knew, it was going to spread like wildfire, not only across Orlais, but likely across Thedas. We hadn't gone out of our way to hide our relationship, but from now on, we wouldn't have to. People could either accept it, or they didn't, and we'd tell them to go jump.

Before I could speak to her, Josephine grabbed my attention as I found myself introduced to her young sister, Yvette. And I was left thinking that either Josephine had talked or written about me in rather glowing terms, or she had written some of Varric's books about me, and definitely nursed a crush. She was very polite, and I was annoyed I couldn't see if she was anything like her sister. Apparently she was an artist, though when I asked if she had any finished work I could view, Josephine snorted so loudly, I think the band playing music almost stopped at hearing the sound. Thinking there could be an almighty argument about to start, I bid them a good night and quickly moved away.

As I walked around, making sure I didn't bump into anyone as I looked up and down, side to side, simply taken away by the sheer magnificence of it all, I did notice many of my companions in discussion with people, and most of them appeared to be behaving themselves. I found Sera standing by herself. Stopping for a moment, she told me Evelyn was busy chatting away with people she recognised, so she was simply surveying the crowd, and seemed to recognise quite a few of them, letting me know she would have juicy gossip. She also let slip that she though Celene was pretty, something I readily admitted to agreeing with.

Walking past Cullen, Bethany and Blackwall, the latter looking slightly awkward as Bethany was practically draped across Cullen. "He's my date for the night considering you're here with your mistress," she stated, thankful there was humour in her tone. She had promised to always understand the circumstances of how it worked, no matter how hard it was for her. And even for me at times. As for Cullen, he simply met my eyes and definitely blushed.

"Just try not to chew him up and spit him out," I retorted.

"He should be so lucky!"

Cullen almost spat his drink out at her tone. I patted him on the shoulder and suggested he just be careful. I might not be able to save him later. And I did wonder what Cassandra would think.

Bull was behaving himself for now, Dorian close by as always, and Varric was with them, regaling them and another couple of nobles with a story, hoping it wasn't one involving me. Vivienne was surprisingly on her own, so before I set about tracking down Leliana, I stopped off for a quick chat. No doubt she'd tear a strip off me for something I'd done wrong.

"You haven't embarrassed yourself as much as I fear. Well done, my dear." She sounded… pleased. Though still condescending. I took it in my stride.

"Any words of wisdom? I mean, this is your playground, after all."

"Speak to the Council of Heralds. Six of them are here tonight. These seventh member of the council is… indisposed. His absence will complicate the negotiations. The council are the highest ranking players of the Game. They see everything. They might know something we can use."

"Anyone in particular?"

"Look for a woman in a green mask. Everyone calls her 'The Dowager'. She could be an ally. Keep it simple. Offer to dance with her. It's all part of the Game, my dear. She will understand the meaning behind the gesture."

"Anything else I should be wary about?"

She laughed. "My dear, everyone in this ballroom has an agenda, even me. But yes, being serious, there is someone you should definitely watch. Keep an eye out for Celene's pet apostate. I've no doubt she's involved in this."

"Pet apostate?"

"I'm not sure who she is but she'll be here tonight. Somehow, she's wormed her way into Celene's inner circle during my absence from court. So be mindful of who you speak to."

"I'll keep that in mind."

"Do try and enjoy yourself, Inquisitor. You might never experience this again."

"Can I be honest and admit I'll be glad not to?!"

That made her laugh again as I moved on. I noticed Leliana across the ballroom, so slowly made my way towards her, chatting to one or two nobles on the way, exchanging nothing but polite pleasantries but it was obvious, even to me, that I was the star attraction of the evening. I wasn't sure if I should find Gaspard and knock him out for that or not.

I followed Leliana until we were by ourselves on a secluded balcony. The first thing she did was turn to kiss me, and it was quite a kiss, the sort which would normally have resulted in other things back at Skyhold. When we finally pulled apart, she caressed my face. "I'm guessing that final part was a surprise?"

"Why did you call yourself my mistress? It's not like I'm married to anyone else."

"Calling myself your girlfriend or lover is… there isn't a proper term to use myself in that regard. Calling myself 'mistress' is a polite way of calling me your lover. But, at least this way, we can dance tonight, and dance closely, and while it might be noticed, now no-one can gossip." I grabbed one of her hands, enjoying the feel of her soft skin, holding it to my chest as I kissed her again. Breaking apart again when we needed air, she asked, "What did the duke say?"

"I don't remember. I'm rather distracted right now."

"Uhtred…" she warned gently.

I chuckled at her reaction, letting her go as she leaned back against the balustrade. Gods, she even looked worth ravishing in our uniforms. "Okay, simply put, the duke is pointing the finger at Briala, but he's not exactly going to point it at Florianne, is he? So while she's worth investigating, there's a room full of people in there with agendas of their own. Vivienne was polite enough to point that out. Hmm…"

"You're thinking, Uhtred. I love it when you do that."

"What about the Council of Heralds? Would they involve themselves in such an affair?"

"Only if they believed Gaspard would make a better ruler of Orlais than Celene, and they certainly wouldn't do anything that would be linked back to them in any way. No, I don't believe they are involved in this, but it's worth perhaps some quiet investigating."

"What do you think about Briala then?"

"She's up to something but she can't remain our only focus. The best place to strike at Celene is from her side." She paused a moment before taking a deep breath. "I know Celene very well, Uhtred. While I was working for Justinia, I worked closely with the Imperial Court."

"So what are you thinking?" I asked, leaning back next to her, both of us watching the door in case we were disturbed.

"Empress Celene is fascinated by mysticism, foreseeing the future, speaking with the dead, that sort of rubbish. She has an 'occult advisor'. An apostate who charmed the empress and key members of the court as if by magic."

"You're the second person to mention this. Vivienne just told me the same thing."

"Uhtred, I know who it is." She paused again, grabbing my hand and making sure I was looking at her. "It's Morrigan."

"What the fuck?" I exclaimed rather loudly. "How the fuck… why… Does Celene even know who she is? How can she keep someone like Morrigan in court? She's the bloody poster child for an apostate!"

"The Imperial Court has always had an official position for a mage. Before now, it was little better than court jester."

"Wasn't Vivienne…"

The start of the question made her laugh. "Yes, obviously Vivienne isn't someone you can describe in such a manner. Even she gives me a moment of pause at times at how ruthless she is. Vivienne was certainly the first person to turn it into a position of real political power. Now that she is with the Inquisition, the position was vacant. And what you started certainly helped whatever Morrigan is scheming."

"What do you mean 'what I started'?"

"Don't take offence. I just mean that when the Circles rebelled, technically every mage became an apostate. But because of that, the word lost much of its strength."

"Have you seen her tonight? I sure haven't."

"No, I haven't either, but she'll make an appearance eventually. And when you meet her, you can't go in like I know you want to. The rules of the Game will apply, even with Morrigan."

"Fucking hell. Talk about a bombshell."

"I will speak with Cassandra and have her organise a small team to disappear and find whatever we need. Morrigan is smart, and I doubt she would have written down everything, but the best thing you can do is continue to mingle with the guests and keep an eye out for Morrigan. Once you see her, make a move towards her. She'll know all about you, of course, so nothing she says will be surprising."

"From what I've been told already, Cassandra will be glad to get away for a while."

"So will some of the others. Your best bet is to spend time with Evelyn, present a united front to people." She kissed my cheek as I was ready to go away. "One last question, Uhtred. What did you think of Celene?"

"How do you mean?" The look she returned suggested I knew exactly what she meant. "Okay, yes, she's gorgeous. Though I'm not a real fan of blondes. Redheads, natural redheads in particular, that's what I like."

"Well, at least I won't have to worry about you running after the empress then. Off you go. Try and stay out of trouble. I'll come find you when I've had word from Cassandra."

I headed back inside and went looking for Evelyn. Though she had been chatting with some nobles earlier, she was now standing by herself, practically in a corner, people watching but otherwise looking rather bored. Her face lit up when she saw me approaching. It didn't just light up. I know when a woman is swooning. And she definitely swooned.

"Looking for some company?"

"I am, if he's willing to take me out of here for a while."

"We can head back out the front. There are things about to go down so I'm thinking we make ourselves slightly scarce for a little while. Our presence will still be noticed if we're down in the garden."

Grabbing her hand, I led her out back into the foyer, down the stairs and back out into the garden, which was still full of nobles escaping to take in some of the night air. In addition to torches, I was fairly sure the Orlesians had other methods of providing light, whether it was magic or something else, I wasn't sure. We walked around the garden in silence before we finally stopped by the fountain. "Before I was sent away to the Circle, I used to hate events like this. Bunch of stuck up, rich arseholes, most of them inheriting titles and fortunes they don't really deserve. Most of the pricks inside are generational nobles whose only contribution to society is keeping most of the people down." I couldn't help look at her in surprise such was the bitterness in her tone. "Part of me was glad I was found to have magic, Uhtred. At least I got away from all this bullshit."

"I'm not a fan of any of this either."

"You do look very handsome though. Shave and a haircut, and you're the star of the ballroom."

"I take it you're missing your robes?"

"At least I can get out of those easily. This will take too much work. All these buttons to start with."

"Yes, but if I were to undo all those buttons, Evie, the anticipation alone would be fantastic."

She gave me a look and the smile lit up her face again. "You'd definitely enjoy what was underneath."

"I know I would. And that's just the top half. Imagine what I'd do when I got your trousers off."

She hugged me from the side immediately. "Thank you," she whispered.

I wrapped an arm around her back. "Evie, I will never get tired of the teasing and banter between us."

We stayed like that for a little while, Evelyn eventually letting me go though continuing to lean against me, both of us feeling relaxed and comfortable with each other again. Eventually, we heard the sound of a bell that suggested we should head back in. She did ask if we should go, and I told her that Leliana told me that we should always wait until the second, which would make us 'fashionably late' and would somehow win the affection of the guests. No idea how but apparently it worked.

So we watched the rest of the nobles eventually move their way into the palace, Evelyn and I one of the last to walk in, just as the bell struck a second time. We were heading up the stairs through the foyer, about to enter the ballroom, when a voice spoke behind us. I hadn't heard it in over ten years, but it was instantly recognisable. A playful tone that I remembered very well. I'll be honest, I'd been suckered in by the voice more than once. I also remembered a particular night in the Eamon's home, and what was effectively a rut on his desk.

"Well, well, what have we here? The leader of the new Inquisition. The man destined to restore order to all of Thedas. How large his influence has grown since we last met." Her eyes moved from me to Evelyn. "And who is this? Ah, the fabled Herald of the faith. Delivered from the grasp of the Fade by the hand of Blessed Andraste herself."

She appeared from a set of stairs and she was as beautiful as I remembered. I'd always thought she was, though she would never have believed me if I told her. Seeing her in a ballgown was something I would never have expected seeing her in though. Her hair was styled. She wore make up. But her eyes were still the same. She'd barely aged a day. I figured that was through magic at least. She stepped towards Evelyn though her eyes watched me, definitely seeing if I would react to her presence. "What could bring such an exalted creature here to the Imperial Court, I wonder? Do you even know?"

"Do you know her, Uhtred?"

The question made her laugh. "My, my, it appears you have not shared our stories with the young Herald, Inquisitor."

I stepped forward, and there was a single moment of alarm in her eyes. And she had to look up as I moved forward. I had always appreciated that fact. Leaning down, I gently brushed my lips against each cheek. "Charmed as always, Morrigan," I whispered. Her perfume was something else entirely, and if she knew I was the Inquisitor, she'd worn it on purpose. I remembered the power games she had taken great delight in playing with me.

Leaning back only slightly, I met her eyes as she met mine. "We must talk, Inquisitor. Alone."

"Whatever for?"

"In regards to what your colleagues are up to right now. Most would not have noted their absence. Only you are being watched and judged. Well, yourself and your young Herald."

"What you say to me, you can say in front of…"

She smiled, but there was menace behind it. "I see you have retained your ploy of remaining difficult when given simple requests."

I held up a hand. "Alright, alright. Don't get your knickers in a twist." I turned to Evelyn. "Evie, this is Morrigan. She is a veteran of the Fifth Blight. We worked together and haven't seen each other in a long time. She's also an advisor to Celene and needs to speak to me."

"I'll head inside, Uhtred. Don't take too long though."

"I'll be inside shortly."

Evelyn walked towards the doors as Morrigan walked towards a side room, this one fill with statues, trophies, and what looked like spoils of war. "She seems rather enamoured by you, Uhtred Dragonborn. Have you shared a bed with her as well?"

"Not that it's any of your business, but yes, I have. I'll ask this bluntly. What do you want, Morrigan?"

"Ah, I see that, with me at least, you will not play the Game. Good. At least we can be honest with each other."

"Despite everything, I think we always were, Morrigan. And despite what you might believe, I never hated you. You pissed me off, did things to anger me, but it wasn't hate. I'd say misunderstanding."

"Ha! It sounds like you've done some growing, Dragonborn."

"Maybe. The fact you disappeared right after the battle wasn't a surprise either."

"Ah, I was wondering when you were going to mention that. Time is of the essence, though. If you wish, we can discuss all that later. I must speak to you about tonight. I believe your colleagues and I hunt the same people. Recently I found, and killed, an unwelcome guest with these very halls. An agent of Tevinter. I found a key, which I give to you, so you may hand it off to your companions and they can find what they need. I know Celene is in danger, and I cannot leave her side. Aware that you need to maintain an appearance, I know your companions will be able to search."

"I could as a million and one questions about what you're doing here now, Morrigan, but I'm not sure I'll ever get a straight answer."

"That is for later, Uhtred. Right now, all I care about is protecting Celene from the dangers she faces. And I will also protect myself from those who would seek to blame me should she fall. For now, you should re-enter the ballroom and continue to dazzle them as you already have. There is still much at stake before the night will conclude. Tread carefully, Dragonborn. One false move, and the sharks will enjoy a feeding frenzy."

"Thanks for the warning."

"I wish you luck, Dragonborn. And I do hope you succeed."