The dancing had started upon re-entering the ballroom, and I knew that I was going to be dragged out there eventually. Evelyn had made her way back towards Sera, who was basically her date for the evening, while I sought out Leliana. She was busy watching as always, no doubt noting down in her mind anything that might come in useful that night, or for a later date. I greeted her with a kiss on the cheek. "Met Morrigan," I whispered.

"And?"

"She didn't say much, though she is concerned about Celene."

"Considering her position in her inner circle, so she should be. Celene being murdered will lead people straight to her door. She has power but it is precarious. She is wise to be alarmed."

"What should I do now?"

"You must speak with Celene, but you cannot approach her directly. So speak to her ladies in waiting. Get in their good graces, and the path to Celene will open." She gestured with her head. "They hover near the empress, never suffocating, always watchful, and if you impress, they will certainly stand you in good stead before you speak with the empress."

"Any sign of Cassandra and the others?"

"They are mingling outside in one of the gardens. I am making sure none of us are watching them. No need to draw any unnecessary attention."

I kissed her cheek and made my way towards the far end of the ballroom. There was no sign of Celene or Briala. Gaspard was no doubt somewhere around, having noticed the distance Celene was keeping between the two of them. I doubted Gaspard would so brazenly kill Celene in the ballroom, but if push came to shove, he might feel left with little choice but to make a very public play for the throne.

Approaching the ladies in waiting, their clothing verged on the ridiculous, though at least only their eyes were covered by a thin veil. They all turned towards me as I stopped only a couple of steps away, bowing slightly. "Inquisitor, to what do we owe this honour?"

"We are always delighted to speak with you, of course," a second lady added.

"Her Imperial Majesty is unfortunately occupied at present," the third stated.

"I apologise, ladies. I have only realised that we have not been properly introduced. I am Lord Inquisitor Uhtred Dragonborn, of course."

"How rude of us to forget! My lord Inquisitor, allow me to present Lady Couteau, Lady Colombe, and of course, Lady Fleur. We are the empress's ladies in waiting."

"May we discuss Empress Celene?"

"Of course, Inquisitor. We would assume that is why you would wish to speak with us. What would you like to know?"

"I'm afraid we haven't had much of a chance to converse, so apart from what I've read, I don't know her very well. What could you tell me about her?"

"Well, she was very young when she came to the throne. Only sixteen years old. But despite that, she has grown to be loved and respected not just in Orlais, but across Thedas."

"If you want to know one or two things most do not know, she does not care for liver, and she enjoys drinking her tea black."

We must have spoken for another half an hour. They were incredibly friendly, even flirting with me on occasion. But they also had a deep love for Celene, wishing to protect her from any threat, not just Gaspard and Briala, who they noted as being skilled in their area, but driven by personal ambition, while Celene obviously only cared about bringing peace to Orlais so she could assist the Inquisition. But I left them feeling slightly better about things regarding Celene and any possible alliance. From what they said, securing peace and ensuring she remained on the throne would mean total support for the Inquisition from Orlais. And Celene would open doors across the northern realms of Thedas as well…

Returning to Leliana, she had watched me like a hawk, and noted that the body language of the ladies in waiting had been positive towards me. She didn't ask too many questions about what had been discussed as she could figure that out for herself. What she suggested next though… I didn't like it.

"You must speak to Ambassador Briala."

I groaned. "She's going to chew me up and spit me out, Leliana. I will be completely out of my depth with her. She's like you, but from what I've been told, with a real axe to grind against, well, humans to be honest."

"Just talk to her like we practiced, Uhtred."

"I'd rather just speak to Celene."

"You must be invited. Patience, my love. It's all part of the Game."

"Have you seen Briala around?"

"I saw her walk out a side door. She is not with Celene at the moment. Now might be the best time for a private conversation. Just remember to tread carefully. A single comment out of place, and she will use that against us, and particularly yourself. She is an adept player of the Game."

"Maybe you should talk to her?"

Leliana leaned forward, kissed my cheek. "I have faith. Now go. Do what you know you can do. Remember one thing." She paused and met my eyes. "Sex is power."

"What?"

"Trust me. You'll see what I mean shortly."

I circled the ballroom once, chatting with the occasional noble, noticing one or two of my companions now looked rather bored with life in general. I didn't blame them. If I wasn't so busy doing what I was up to, I'd have been bored stiff myself. At least Cullen was being kept occupied by Bethany, who had at least backed off slightly. In fact, she looked rather bored and, despite her presence, women were still walking up to Cullen and asking him to dance. I'm sure her reactions were amusing to any of our other companions who were keeping watch. I noticed Vivienne in deep conversation with someone, and the slight nod my way suggested either she approved of what I was up to, or she was talking to one of the Council of Herald members. Either way, I guess progress was being made.

Walking outside for a breath of fresh hair, an obvious ruse, I found Briala standing by herself. She definitely sensed my presence, noticeably tensing, though I hadn't gone out of my way to be silent. Turning around, she was wearing a mask covering half of her face. She was certainly a lot shorter than I was, and like most elven women, rather slim. Long hair, though, that she kept in nothing but a simple bun. Her clothing appeared simple but I doubted it was cheap.

She looked me up and down in silence for a few moments, keeping her face blank. "Inquisitor Dragonborn. Slumming even more than usual, I see. You've managed to charm some of the nobles inside. We'll see how long you can keep their favour. What brings you to me?"

I retorted with a question of my own. Unlike Celene or Gaspard, I didn't figure playing nice would work with her. I didn't go for the jugular but I wasn't going to be put off by her attitude. "What's your story, Briala? How is an elf invited to the empress's ball as an ambassador?" I made sure my tone when using 'elf' was less than complimentary. She wouldn't have a clue about my opinion about the elven race, the affection I had for Gawen, the friendship I'd established with Solas, the many other elves who I had come into contact with over the years. So I definitely made sure my voice held disdain, almost forcing a sneer onto my face when I looked at her, wondering how she would react.

"Empress Celene and I have… history," she admitted. Now that isn't what I expected at all, though she didn't insinuate anything personal. Just that there was a reason why she was there. "There was a time when I put my spies at her disposal. She knows my qualifications. However, we had a bit of a falling out. Now we're negotiating to determine whether I return to her side in the war."

Despite her obvious attempt, she failed at hiding the numerous emotions about their 'falling out' and I simply had to ask, "You had a falling out?" Leliana had briefed me but even she didn't know the whole story.

"She betrayed me," Briala replied matter of factly, "She turned me in to save her political reputation. Before you assume things, Inquisitor, it was not personal. Nothing really as it is all part of the Game. That is how all Orlesians justify these things to themselves. It wouldn't do to let the court know she had an elven… friend."

I decided to hell with it and said what I was thinking. "Or perhaps even a lover?"

She laughed lightly though there was no humour in the tone. "Oh, Inquisitor, I never would have believed you would have believed or listened to such salacious court gossip."

"It would explain the falling out, and despite the outward appearance, you're giving off plenty of other vibes. The mask doesn't hide the language of the entire body, Ambassador Briala. Your feelings for the empress are obvious."

She smirked, though I didn't know if I'd landed a hit or not. I just wanted the truth. I cared little who the empress shared her bed with at night. What I needed was her alive as, though invited by Gaspard, I hadn't given him any reason to think I would actually support his cause. As for Briala, she had her own intentions, and if left to her own devices, could distract the Imperial Court and take focus away from Corypheus. "I think you misinterpret, Inquisitor. Few harbour more resentment against Celene than I."

"And the line between love and hate is thin, Briala."

"Hate is a strong word, Inquisitor. As for love, you obviously do not fully understand how this works. People do not marry for such ideals as love, not when people are obsessed with wealth and power. You find a partner to lift your social status, even attain the power of the crown itself. Celene certainly has my respect as a master of the Game. But even the mightiest are destined to fall eventually."

"That's rather an incriminating throwaway line, Briala."

"I'm not stupid, Inquisitor. If Celene were to die after inviting me here, the court would certainly pin her death on me. And I cannot afford to die as that will not help my people. An elf assassinating the empress? Alienages not just across Orlais, but across the entirety of Thedas, would be purged. And I will not allow that happen."

I took a step closer and she had to lift her chin slightly to meet my eyes. "Then work with me then," I said quietly, "Do you know anything about me?"

"I've read enough. You are not Gaspard, a simple brute. Despite appearances, there is a thinking man behind that face of yours. You are dangerous, though. And I fail to see how helping you helps me."

"The Inquisition is a force that could force change across Thedas. Nations will eventually listen to us. We will help the poor, the sick, the downtrodden… Perhaps even an entire race of people who have experienced centuries of subjugation…"

She scoffed. "I have heard similar promises from others, Inquisitor. You are not an elf. You are a human. And elves trust humans less than any other race on this planet. The only people who can help the elves are themselves. No matter how long it takes, one day, we will be free."

I stepped back. "I hope you will reconsider, Briala. I'll tell you one thing. The man introduced as my manservant, Solas. Couldn't be farther from the truth, but because of how elves are viewed, we had to lie. Solas is a great man, a gifted mage, and someone I call a true friend. He has helped the Inquisition since before it was formed, when it was still just an idea. Since then, he has helped me, I have helped him. And he's not the only elf I have helped over the years. There is another man, named Gawen, my servant. But he's more than that. He's a friend, a close friend, someone I trust completely. Know why? He was with me in Kirkwall, then he travelled across Thedas to join me at Skyhold. I will admit that, many years ago, I had a poor view of your kind. But Leliana, a woman I'm sure you know very well, can tell you how I have grown, how my opinions have changed, and how in my current position, I can affect real positive change for many people on Thedas. Something to consider."

And, with those words, I turned and walked away. "We were lovers, Inquisitor," she stated softly, "I owe you that truth, at least." I glanced back as she added, "But that was a long time ago. Before she betrayed me. Part of me still loves her. Another part of me detests the very ground she walks on. That is what happens when you try and give yourself to someone like her. Even in private, the Game is still played."

"No wonder Cassandra detests this so called 'Game'."

"I will give you one piece of advice, Inquisitor. Trust no-one."

"Even you?" She gave me a look I could interpret even with the mask. "Thanks for the advice."

"Tread carefully, Inquisitor. There are many here who will take great delight in seeing you fail and fall. And from the position you are in, your fall will be great."

I turned away and walked back into the ballroom, her words echoing in my mind. I didn't see a personal threat nor a threat to the Inquisition. I believe we would be nothing but an inconvenience to her ambitions. She cared more about freeing her people, and as long as we didn't try and stand in her way, she would watch but would not interfere. The only problem is that it could interfere with trying to stop Corypheus. And I was already thinking as I returned to Leliana.

She was waiting for my return and I gave her the rundown of my discussion with Briala. She didn't believe that she wanted to kill Celene, perhaps go far as humiliate her, but even I had to admit she didn't come across as going so far as to plan an assassination. "So that leaves Gaspard," Leliana stated, "Cassandra is currently away with most of your people. No-one has taken any notice as all eyes are still on you and the Herald of Andraste. I would suggest a dance or two, as while you are watched, the absence of the others won't be noticed."

"Cullen keeps looking at me with desperation in his eyes. Despite Bethany being draped over him, I think he is being propositioned often, much to the amusement of Bethany."

"He stands out at little bit. Subterfuge isn't his strong point, but he knows how to play along, at least. I would suggest a dance with the Dowager. It will certainly turn heads, and attract the attention of those with pawns on the board."

Before I left, she grabbed my hand and pulled me in for one hell of a kiss, which definitely surprised me. Leaning back slightly, she smiled at me first. "That will certainly give them something to talk about. But I won't be a target. They know me, Uhtred, either personally or through reputation. No-one will be stupid to take me off the board. It'll just give them some juicy gossip."

"Ever tell you how much I love you?"

"All the time. Now go, dance with the Lady Mantillon, though she is known to everyone as the Dowager. Set even more tongues wagging. You'll have this entire ballroom wrapped around your finger soon enough."

I found the Dowager in conversation with a few other nobles, though it ceased as soon as I walked towards them. One or two must have definitely been young as there were certainly giggles as I asked the Dowager for a dance. Though she politely declined the first invitation, a second, firmer invitation definitely made her smile, as although her green mask covered her entire face, you can always tell when someone is smiling, the inflection in their tone rising to suggest they are happy to speak with you.

Leading her out onto the dancefloor, I felt all eyes fall upon us as we joined the throng. Lady Mantillon certainly seemed to be thrilled to be dancing with someone like me, at least, managing to keep her laughter quiet as I spun her around the ballroom. "I haven't been swept off my feet by a young man in decades, Inquisitor."

"Decades? Lady Mantillion, are you suggesting by dancing with me that it would be positively… scandalous?"

That made her laugh even louder. "I do not guess your age, Inquisitor, but I can assure you I am much older than yourself. Tongues would already be wagging that you would have suggested dancing with myself. A widower. A member of the Council of Heralds."

"I'm sure your husband was a very lucky man, Lady Mantillon."

"Nine, Inquisitor. Nine men have been so fortunate to take my hand."

I could have blurted out something then but managed to retain myself. "Well, they were perhaps the nine luckiest men in Orlais, Milady."

We only danced as long as one song, so I didn't have the opportunity of talking any real business with her, but the point of the dance wasn't to discuss business. It would get people talking about the fact I'd danced with a Council Herald. After that, I received plenty of offers to dance, including one from Evelyn. I was ready to dance with her, but she gave the eyes, suggesting I dance with another noble instead. I'm fairly sure I ended up dancing with the wives and lovers of at least three or four powerful nobles, and I think most danced with me for other reasons other than to be seen with me. I did receive more than one rather firm squeeze of my arse, and definitely more than one proposition was offered. Ten years ago, I'd have led them away to a secluded room rather quickly. Now I simply smiled, suggested I was flattered by the offer, and that I would certainly think about it.

I kept dancing until I saw Cassandra re-enter the ballroom and head straight towards Leliana, watching them out of the corner of my eye. When Cassandra walked away, Leliana returned a gesture that I should stop dancing at the end of the current tune. Thanking my partner at the end, I grabbed a pair of drinks and headed up to where Leliana was relaxing against a high table. Offering her the drink, she said, "Well, for someone who said they couldn't dance, you are certainly proving rather fleet of foot tonight."

"All practice for when I get you onto the floor, my dear." I took a sip before asking, "I take it we have news?"

"The assassin is in play. Many Venatori dead. And we have an ally in Briala. Cassandra and company found her. Someone has been killing her people in the palace. Something you told her must have brought her around. She mentioned to Cassandra you spoke of helping them. Solas added his weight of words as well."

"Nice to know she's come around."

"She admits to preferring Gaspard, simply because she believes he can be manipulated easier. But she also suggested Celene is the far more effective ruler overall. She won't have soldiers marching north, south, east and west for glory. Celene prefers peace and diplomacy, and although not as easy to manipulate, if she comes out tonight in glory, the people may be more willing to listen to her reasoning if she were to give Briala at least a hint of what she really wants."

"Okay, so what are we doing now?"

"There is one person in all of this we have ignored. Grand Duchess Florianne de Chalons."

"Gaspard has been rather open about his ambitions, but to flagrantly murder the empress would not stand him in good stead with the nobles, nor anyone who may support his claim as of now."

"Exactly, Uhtred. Cassandra has discovered enough so far, but it is circumstantial. So, what you need to do is get close to the duchess and talk to her. A dance would be best. A quiet chat in the middle of the ballroom. Everyone would be watching but no-one is listening."

"Guess I'll just have to attract her attention."

"She will make a move eventually, Uhtred. You being here certainly altered any plan she might have had, but if she is the master behind all of this, then you are but another piece on the board to be manipulated."

"Don't suppose you tell her that I'm not easy to manipulate, except by a certain someone, which I willingly let it happen with, and it simply won't work."

"She won't know that right now, Uhtred. So let her think she can convince you otherwise."

So I circled the ballroom again, chatting with some of the same nobles as before, others stopped me and asked various questions, whether about my life, the Inquisition, even going so far as to what I hoped would happen once it was done. When I told them I simply wished to retire in peace, I think I shocked one or two. I guess they assumed I would go searching for more power and influence. Proof no-one in that room, except those closest to me, knew me at all.

Everyone who had disappeared with Cassandra had returned, so I chatted with Bull and Dorian, both seeming to take delight in killing a few Venatori, while Vivienne expressed surprise at how well I was working the room. I took it as a compliment, despite how back-handed it was. I found the rest out in the foyer, where it was quieter, sitting in twos and threes on lounges against the wall. Cassandra didn't add to much to what Leliana told me, though told me she was rather disgusted by everything happening that evening. When I asked her who we should favour, she admitted Gaspard, simply because he was a straight talker. What we saw was what we would get. Too much smoke and mirrors with Celene, all the 'Game bullshit' which she detested.

Evelyn was down in the garden, this time with Sera, Josephine and also her sister, the four sitting against the fountain, taking a breather from events inside. The latter was certainly rather taken by me as she immediately inundated me with questions, Josephine asking her within a couple of minutes to stop bothering me. I assured her it was fine, batting away most questions with ease, particularly in regards to my private life.

With a promise that I would dance with her, at least, while Evelyn still wanted a chance to dance with me as well, I headed back inside, and it appeared my absence had been noted, as someone I had been waiting to chat with me was waiting as I re-entered the ballroom again.

It's hard to describe the style of her dress. Like nothing worn by any of the other noblewomen at the ball. She wore a mask that only covered a portion of her face. Her hair was cut rather short, which seemed unusual. She was polite at least. "Inquisitor Dragonborn? We met briefly. I am Grand Duchess Florianne de Chalons. Welcome to my party."

"Charmed, Duchess Florianne. Interesting that you wish to speak to me now."

"This is Orlais, Inquisitor. Nothing happens by accident. I believe tonight you and I are both concerned by the actions of… a certain person." She gestured towards the ballroom floor. "Come, dance with me. Spies will not hear us on the dance floor." I knew that was likely aimed at Leliana.

"Very well. Shall we dance, Your Grace?" I asked, offering my hand.

"I'd be delighted," she said. Her voice was so false, it almost made me laugh. But I knew it was all part of the Game, which I was growing to detest as much as Cassandra. I preferred straight talking like Gaspard, but I knew my advisors were split. Leliana supported Celene. Cullen would support Gaspard, a military man. Josephine would support a peaceful co-existence. As for myself? I still wasn't sure. I didn't want to see Celene assassinated, I knew that much. Briala said she would offer an alliance, though I wasn't sure exactly what the conditions would be. I knew there was little chance of Celene and Gaspard coming to an agreement that would see her remain on throne, not as much as he coveted it and considering he'd gone to war for it.

Joining others on the dancefloor, the dance began, Florianne wasting little time. "You are not from here, are you, Inquisitor? I will admit, I do not know as much about you as I would like, but that is for later. How much do you know about our little war?"

"I know enough that a war in Orlais, or the continuation of the civil war, will be felt across Thedas, Lady Florianne."

"Perhaps it will be. I should not be surprised to find the empire is the centre of everyone's world. It took great effort to arrange tonight's negotiations. Yet one part would use this occasion for blackest treason. The security of the empire is at stake. Neither one of us wishes to see it fall."

About that, she was right. I loved Ferelden, I still saw it as home on Thedas. I had spent a decade in Kirkwall, and still loved the city, despite everything it threw at me. But I loved the grandeur and the history I had learned about Orlais. Its culture was special in many ways, though I didn't appreciate certain aspects.

And I also knew bullshit when I heard it. Florianne had organised this negotiation, hoping to help out her brother, I'd figured that much out for myself by now. Briala clearly hadn't asked the Venatori to infiltrate the palace, murder her own people, then to murder Celene.

"Do we both want that, Lady Florianne?" I asked. There was no visible reaction to the question, on her face at least. "I hope we are one mind on this."

"In times like these, it's hard to tell friend from foe, is it not, Your Grace?"

The part of the dance where we came closer approached. Taking one of her hands in mine, wrapping the other around her waist, we began to spin around the dancefloor. I wasn't wearing a mask. I wore my thoughts clearly, so the only place I could search Florianne was her eyes behind the mask. "I know you arrived as a guest of my brother, Gaspard. And your people have been everywhere in the palace…" I couldn't help smirk, unsurprised that she knew all about that. "You are a curiosity to many, Inquisitor… and a matter of concern to some."

I'll admit right now, I will be forever thankful to Leliana and Josephine for giving me the basics of the game. And maybe Leliana was right. I wasn't as dumb as I sometimes thought I was, as I seemed to know the exact thing to say. Never reveal all your cards. "Am I the curiosity or the concern to you, Your Grace?"

"A little of both, actually." I wasn't expecting that response, though I guess she wasn't going to outright say she was very concerned about everything I'd learned so far. "This evening is of great importance, Inquisitor. I wonder what role you will play in it. Do you even yet know who is friend and who is foe? Who in the court can be trusted?" The urge to blurt 'Certainly not you' almost escaped me. The one thing I'd learned to trust over the years was my gut. And it was telling me that she was not to be trusted. But capable of regicide? I still couldn't be sure.

To be honest, I didn't trust anyone in the Winter Palace. All the nobles with their fake fawning. Gaspard only invited us to further his own agenda. Celene, I hadn't had a chance to talk to her yet. Briala had been perhaps the most honest so far, but even she had her own ambitions which could conflict with ours. Florianne? I had the feeling she was the most ambitious of all, but I couldn't be sure if it was for her brother's sake, or her own.

"I trust the Inquisition, Your Grace, and everyone in it. Every man for himself in the Imperial Court, after all."

She remained silent for longer than I expected as we continued to dance. It gave me a good chance to just look at her. She wasn't what I would call a beauty. I certainly wasn't attracted at all, and this is coming from someone who generally found some sort of redeeming feature. And still my gut was telling me not to trust a single word.

"In the Winter Palace, everyone is alone," she finally stated, "It cannot have escaped your notice that certain parties are engaged in dangerous machinations tonight."

I nearly snorted at the insinuation. "I thought 'dangerous machinations' were the national sport in Orlais."

It was only now I recognised we were alone on the floor, with all other dance partners stepping off to the side. Out of the corner of my eyes, I saw my group watching, and I knew Leliana was thinking, and the slight nod of her head as I looked her way for a brief second told me everything I needed to know. I continued to dance with Grand Duchess Florianne, now the centre of attention. I would have to thank Leliana, Josephine and Evelyn for all the dance lessons. Somehow, the training had stuck. I hadn't stood on her foot yet!

"You have little time. The attack will come soon. You must stop Gaspard before he strikes. In the Royal Wing garden, you will find the captain of my brother's mercenaries. He knows all Gaspard's secrets. I'm sure your people can persuade him to be forthcoming."

Making our way to the edge of the floor, I finally let go of our hand as we stepped back and bowed to each other. There was polite applause as we parted, feeling her eyes watch me as I climbed the stairs back towards the upper level. Leliana walked towards me, kissed my cheek and whispered 'Meet outside' while a few others definitely couldn't contain their excitement, Evelyn giving me a tight hug, exclaiming I'd danced ever so well, while Josephine suggested I would be the toast of Orlais for months, and would definitely have more invites to social events in the future. Excusing myself after the rather public fawning, I headed out to speak with Leliana.

"Tell me everything, Uhtred," she said once we were leaning against the balustrade, watching the door for anyone coming outside to join us.

"The grand duchess tried to convince me Gaspard is the traitor, but I'm not sure I buy it. Well, I mean he is a traitor in that he's gone to war against his cousin to try and take the crown, but organising her assassination tonight? No, I don't think that's him."

"I agree," Cullen stated, as he walked through the door with Josephine alongside, "Gaspard is a soldier. I don't believe he would stoop to such action."

"Florianne and her brother are thick as thieves, but she would give him up in an instance to save herself," Leliana added.

"Seriously? I was under the impression she was doing all of this to aid him."

"In a way, yes, Uhtred, she is. But while she will help him, she won't have a problem sacrificing him either. I've learned enough about her tonight to know she has been groomed since a young age to do anything and everything to get him the throne. I have no doubt she actually resents him completely, and seeing him destroyed may actually bring her pleasure."

"So the attack will still happen tonight?" Cullen asked.

"Warning Celene is pointless," Josephine added, "She needs these talks to succeed, and to flee would admit defeat."

"Then perhaps we should let her die," Leliana stated. I looked at her in surprise, worried that she was slipping back into old habits. Noticing my look, she added, "Let me explain, then you might understand. What Corypheus wants is chaos. Even with Celene alive, that could still happen. To foil his plan, the empire must remain strong. This evening, someone must emerge victorious."

Cullen nodded. "I'm afraid I must agree, Inquisitor. It doesn't need to be Celene to be ruling Orlais at the end of this evening."

"You do realise what you are suggesting, Leliana?" Josephine asked.

Leliana only looked at me when replying. "Sometimes the best path is not the easiest one."

"So the Inquisition could end up playing the pivotal role in who rules Orlais?" I wondered aloud.

"More than that, Inquisitor. Whoever controls the Imperial throne will affect all of Thedas," Josephine replied.

I gave that some thought. "Gaspard is a warmonger. I know he still has designs of Ferelden. Plenty of nobles in there still speak of Ferelden as some lost province of Orlais. Celene seems to want peace with Ferelden, and everyone else at least. What Thedas doesn't need is even more war after Corypheus is defeated."

"Then we should support Celene, Inquisitor," Josephine stated, "She is the rightful ruler, despite what Gaspard thinks. Why would we say otherwise?"

"Because she led Orlais to this point. I say Gaspard, with certain provisions," Cullen added, "I can see your hesitancy regarding Gaspard, Inquisitor. We would need to ensure a peace treaty is signed, ironclad, backed by the Inquisition if necessary."

"I would suggest Briala," Leliana stated, and I wasn't the only one to look at her in surprise, "She could bring true peace, not only to the empire but also to its elves."

"She's an elf. She can't rule Orlais," I said, before I paused, "Gods, it sounds awful when you say it so bluntly."

"Have Briala rule with either Celene or Gaspard. But we can certainly make sure she is given power, whether in an official capacity or not. With Gaspard, she will have him on puppet strings, doing whatever she desires. With Celene, we'd need to blackmail her."

"I want to help Briala," I said, definitely to the surprise of the three of them, "I've spoken to her only once. I liked her. And she was the most honest of everyone I've spoken to so far. And if we help her, we help the elves. And… I don't trust Florianne. And if I can't trust her, I can't trust Gaspard."

"It sounds like you've made up your mind then, Inquisitor," Cullen stated, "Once we make our play, there is no turning back."

"We need to find Cassandra and let her know what I learned from Florianne. Send everyone except Evelyn with her. Cullen, you had better get the soldiers ready to make a move. Leliana, are your agents already inside?"

She laughed. "Of course, Uhtred. They have been for some time, waiting for the signal to move."

"And what are you going to do, Inquisitor?" Josephine wondered, as we headed back inside.

"I think I owe Evelyn a dance. Unless you want to dance now, Leliana?"

"I will dance with you once all this is over, Uhtred. And I think Evelyn has been patient for long enough."

Cullen headed off, finding Cassandra nearby, and after a whisper in her ear, there was a gesture made and all my companions filtered one by one out of the ballroom. It looked blatantly obvious, but the time for secrets was at an end. Florianne had told me what was going on, and my people were going to investigate. It was likely a trap, but my people would handle it without a problem.

Evelyn remained behind, and when I asked her if she wanted to dance, she almost leapt on me. Leading her to the floor, she definitely stood closer to me than anyone else, and her eyes didn't leave mine the entire time we danced. We barely shared a word as we waltzed, the smile on her face constant, her fingers eventually locking with mine as I pulled her a little closer with each circle of the floor. I could feel the energy between us, all the thoughts and feeling we shared for each other. I nearly forgot about everyone around us as I twirled her about. She continued to watch me, waiting for something.

"You're thinking, Uhtred," she whispered.

"I am," I admitted.

"What are you thinking?"

"How beautiful you are tonight." Corny, I know, but I was always honest, and sometimes when I was being honest, I'd also have to cringe at the same time. I glanced to the upper level to see Leliana watching us. When she met my eyes, she smiled approvingly. She knew how much Evelyn liked me, how much I liked her, and we were both clearly enjoying the dance.

"Well, I've waited long enough tonight for this, so I'm going to make the most of it. Do you think they'll do music for a slow dance?"

I glanced at Leliana and mouthed what she wanted. Leliana smiled again, and disappeared for a couple of minutes, returning just as the music changed. Evelyn wasted no time moulding herself against me, which simply caused me to chuckle as I ran my fingers up and down her back, feeling her sigh with contentment. "I love you," she whispered.

"I love you too, Evie."

I realised immediately I hadn't actually said those words to her. I knew how she felt about me, of course. I looked down to see her head against my chest, not daring to look up. We barely moved as the music played, but I felt the occasional shake. "I take it you loved those words?"

"I've waited so long to hear you say them," she whispered, "I love you so much."

The only reason why I didn't kiss her on the dancefloor is that would simply set too many tongues wagging. I'm sure some would already assume, but we had our roles to play that evening. So I just held her tightly to my body and continued to sway. I felt her hands on my back, occasionally moving up and down.

"How is your date tonight?"

I made her giggle, at least. "Sera says she's hating every second, but she's actually having a great time."

"Has she been suggestive at all?"

"Surprisingly, no. She's definitely my best friend… well, except for some obvious people. We spend a lot of time together. She does want to dance later but I'm not sure how it would look to people."

"Do what you want, Evie. If she wants to dance with you, forget what they think. Do what you want."

"I want to be naughty."

"Oh…"

Now she leaned back. I wiped her cheeks with my thumb, leaning down to kiss my forehead. "Is the Herald of Andraste propositioning the Inquisitor?"

She leaned up to my ear. "She wants to be filled by him." I gulped as those words were said in such a tone, I think I even shuddered. That made her giggle. "Thought you'd like the sound of that. Your big cock in my tight, little pussy."

I met her eyes. "You've been spending too much time around Bethany!"

She cracked up laughing, earning a few glance from those around us, thankful they couldn't hear us. "She's given me a few tips. One is that I should just be blunt in what I want from you."

"That is one word to describe Bethany at least." I leaned down towards her ear, making her shudder as I made sure I breathed. "If you're not careful, I'll find us an empty room, throw you on a bed, rip your clothes off, and claim your arse instead," I growled quietly.

"Maker's breath, right now, I'd want nothing more."

"Aye, think it's time to get off the dance floor."

The music finally ended and I escorted her from the dancefloor. I hugged her tightly, leaning down to kiss her cheeks, just like they did in Orlais. Escorting her towards Leliana, she wrapped an arm around Evelyn as they looked at me. "Looks like you were having quite the conversation there," she said.

"I said I loved him," she gushed.

Leliana turned towards her, taking her hands, before she released them and hugged her tightly. "It's about time, Evie. And what did he say?"

She looked at me and smiled, replying, "He loves me too."

"Uhtred has a lot of love in his heart, it seems. But I can understand why he has that depth of feeling for you."

"So what do we do?"

"I'm thinking you head out to the balcony nearby. I will post people at the door to ensure you have privacy, and you should talk."

"What?" I asked.

"Uhtred, she's just admitted she loves you, and you did the same. And the look on her face is telling me she desperately wants to make love right now. That's isn't really a good idea, so talking would be best." Evelyn's nod was so eager; I was surprised her head didn't fall of her neck. I think she wanted to fuck then and there, putting it bluntly, but she would also be sensible. "Trust me, you won't be noticed nor disturbed. These balconies are designed for complete privacy."

Taking her by the hand, I led her outside and looked around. Hedges to three sides offered complete privacy, the windows had curtains through which you could not see. Leliana had followed and closed the doors behind us. I led Evelyn towards a nearby bench, taking a seat, not surprised when she chose to straddle my lap instead, knees to either side.

Caressing her face, she leaned down and left a soft kiss on my lips. "How long?" I asked quietly.

"Since Haven, of course," she replied, "But the day you walked out of the chantry… and I didn't know if you would actually return… Leliana figured it out then, of course. She didn't make me say anything, but I was obviously distraught about leaving you behind. She hugged me a lot until you returned."

"And here I thought it was just a bit of a crush."

"It started out like that but developed into deeper feelings very quickly." She relaxed but suddenly looked unsure. "How does this work, Uhtred?"

"Don't overthink it. That's what I'm trying to learn to do. We've now admitted how we feel about each other. And before you wonder, I still love Bethany and Solona. I think that's why Leliana is so open-minded. When Solona was with us, Leliana was happy with three of us. Then she disappeared, and I found myself with Bethany, and with everything that happened, my feelings for her will never diminish. I was ready to just be with Leliana, she knows that, but we've come to this agreement." I smiled, gently dragging her down so I could kiss her again. "And now you're here with me," I added softly.

"I want to do something really naughty."

Chuckling, I admitted, "I do too, Evie, but we have tomorrow, the day after that… and maybe the rest of our lives, depending on what happens. All I know is that I am a very lucky man right now."

"When did you realise… your feelings for me?"

"I thought you were one of the most beautiful things I'd ever seen the day we met, Evie. And Leliana had me figured out before I had even given it a thought. Mostly, I've just gone with the thought that I would keep you safe from all our enemies."

She smiled as she relaxed against me. I'm sure she definitely wanted to do something naughty. It was taking a lot of self-control on my part not to use my fingers in a certain manner, so I made do with stroking her back as she relaxed against me.

Hearing the doors open, I glanced to see Leliana walked towards us with a beaming smile. Evelyn didn't move a muscle as she sat next to us.

"Well, you two are simply adorable," she stated, kissing my cheek, running a hand through Evelyn's hair, "I don't want to ruin the moment, but your absence will be noticed soon."

"We'll be inside within five minutes," I said.

"Once we're done here this evening, you two will need some time again, this time to confirm your love for one another."

"What about you?" Evelyn asked.

Leliana chuckled. "Evie, trust me, as I've said, we're going to have a lot of fun together. But just like I get him to myself a lot, I'm going to make sure you get him too." She paused and laughed to herself again. "Maker, then there's poor Bethany. I think Cullen is of the idea she's getting her claws into him. I'm not sure how he'd react or deal with her."

"She's just having a little fun because she has to behave regarding me."

Leliana leaned over to kiss my cheek again and disappeared inside. I gave Evelyn one last squeeze before she moved off my lap, standing up, feeling… rather good about life, to be honest. Evelyn simply looked up at me with the sort of grin that told everyone what she was thinking and feeling. Taking her hand, I leaned down and kissed her forehead, a gesture she'd grown to adore. "I love you, Evie. And I mean it with all my heart."

She leaned back, a beaming smile on her face. "We should head inside, Inquisitor. The sooner we're done here, the sooner we return to Skyhold and then maybe you can keep to your word about what you said on the dancefloor."

Taking her by the hand, we walked back into the Winter Palace, ready to decide the fate of Orlais.

A/N – I'll admit, I did originally have the last scene written where Evelyn admits her love and the two would head outside and fuck each other senseless. But I figured that would just be getting rather silly.