I do not own any characters. They all belong to the blood and mind of Thedas…Bioware. Thank you to everyone who is reading this and left likes and comments! I really appreciate it! I am going to be updating often again, now that life is back on track! Hope you enjoy this chapter! Rated M for language and future lemons.

Chapter 12

I swear this was Anders. It had to be. I mean, I didn't play Dragon Age 2, but pictures and pins of this guy and Fenris were everywhere on Sarah's pinterest page. I mean, I even look at a picture of him every time I walk down the hallway to my room. We even have his manifesto hanging above the entrance to the hallway as the focal point of the living room. Real life him was definitely more attractive, but why was he here? From what I gathered from Sarah and talking to people in Inquisition, this was the mage that blew up the chantry in Kirkwall.

"Do I know you?" Anders asked, his voice suspicious. He looked me up and down, his staff on the bed, out of reach.

"No," I replied, hesitating in the doorway. I tried to think of a reason I knew his name quick. "Just figured if you are in Hawke's room, you must be one of his chums."

Anders stepped toward me and I couldn't reflex in time. He slammed me against the wall and held me there, his arm pinning to the wall across my chest. "You're lying. How do you know me?"

I felt my heart race and I looked into his amber eyes, panic rising in me. This mage was fucking crazy! This is who I wanted to romance? What did Sarah tell me about him? He left the Wardens because of a cat? "You won't believe me, so let's just say I'm a psychic." I closed my eyes and thought of the fade, knowing he could do so much damage to me before I do anything to him. I felt the connection to the fade and pushed the energy out. Green energy shot out of me and Anders let his grip go as I slid to the floor. I rubbed my chest, bruised from his arm holding me up. "Fuck," I muttered, the bruise already forming.

"What did you do?" He asked in shock, rubbing his shoulder from the impact on the stone floor.

"Magic," I muttered, standing up. "I thought you'd be familiar with it. Being taken over by Vengeance or Pride or some shit like that."

"Excuse me?" Anders was watching me warily. "You are very close to getting a fireball thrown at you. The only reason I am holding back is because you know Hawke."

"Seriously, I'm not a threat," I tried to assure him, my tone less hostile. "I didn't mean to get snappy with you, I just don't often have people holding me up against doors that have blown up chantries." I wiped the hair from my face and went to the door, ready to leave before I actually had to suck on a fireball. "Don't worry I won't tell anyone you're here. Unless they already know, but I doubt Cullen and Cassandra would let you be here if they did. So…can you tell Hawke Captain King was looking for him?"

"Wait," his voice rang out and I felt a shiver. His voice was amazing. Already I knew who I would be romancing in the second game…if I ever got back to play it. Would I want to play now that I have been here and experienced things? Would I want to have the memories of here come back? I shook away the thoughts and focused on Anders. "Why wouldn't you tell them?"

I shrugged, crossing my arms and leaning on my right leg. "Why would I? I have nothing against you or Hawke. You must be here for a reason. I'm guessing you are on the run with Hawke. I don't know your whole story though."

He raised an eyebrow. "You know I blew up a chantry and you are willing to just pretend I'm not here?"

I sighed and sat on a chair. I crossed a leg over the other and leaned forward. "Listen," I began, taking a deep breath. "I hate the Chantry as much as you. Hell, I'd blow up a church too, if they supported the suppression of what God granted us. Magic isn't a choice. Like a lot of other things. Everyone deserves to be free." I shrugged and glanced up at him. "Also, Varric wrote a book about Hawke and the mage who blew up a chantry. It's not exactly a secret."

Anders considered me, his brown eyes lost in thought. "Where did you say, you were from?"

"A different world…realm? Michigan," I decided on finally. I bent down to pick up my staff and adjusted it on my back. "Like I said, just looking for Hawke. He said he'd give me some magic tips."

Anders raised his eyebrows. "You don't know how to work magic? Aren't you a little old to not understand your power?"

I shifted my weight, wishing I played Dragon Age 2 now. "There isn't magic where I am from. Well there aren't mages or anything like that. I just found out I was a mage yesterday."

Anders looked at me in doubt. "You are asking Hawke for help? You do know he's a blood mage?"

I felt excitement rise in me. "Is he really! I so want to learn that!"

Anders shock almost made me laugh. "What?" He shook his head, a hand going to his temples. "I guess if anyone was going to teach you how to be one, it would be him." His hand went down suddenly and he glanced up. "How did you know about Justice?"

I glanced around, trying to think of a distraction to get out of this one. "Trust me, you don't want to know. I am going to be late for training with Iron Bull, so I should go. Nice meeting you Blondie."

I hurried down the hallway, barely hearing him mutter something about Varric. I jogged toward the training field, wanting to hurry with training so I could talk to Dagna about my keys. If I got back home, I'd want them. If Dad didn't have new ones made since mine and me went missing.

I suddenly realized what my disappearance must seem like at home. Was I dead to them or just missing? Did Leaha and the others get sent to therapy or told they were hallucinating? "No! We didn't hallucinate! We saw a rift open and Kassy was sucked in! You have to believe us!" If it was me hearing this, I would have thought them crazy. Were the woods searched to see if me or any of my belongings were there? I can't imagine how my parents must feel. How long would they search before thinking I'm dead? I still wasn't fully convinced I'm not in an intense coma dream.

I practically ran into Iron Bull, my thoughts making me unaware of my surroundings. "Watch out, Rift! You almost ran into a post earlier."

I shook my head, clearing my thoughts. "Sorry Bull, just a little distracted with my thoughts. You ready to train?"

Bull crossed his arms and looked me over. "You seem off. Come on. Some training will get your head straighter."

I took out my sword and laid my staff against the fence, readying myself for some training. I swung the sword a few times, feeling my muscles react to the weight of the sword compared to the staff. "I did some training this morning with Cassandra and I feel I got worse."

"That's to be expected after your kind of injury," Bull informed me, his own sword swinging through the air. "After a couple weeks of not training, your body went weak and it's going to be awhile before you get back into shape." He raised an eyebrow at me. "You might want to train with Cullen's troops once in a while to see where you are at in training. It may surprise you."

I snorted. "To see how a bunch of recruits who have been training forever can kick my ass? I'll be surprised if I don't fall on my ass."

"You underestimate yourself. Tomorrow instead of training with Cassandra or me, you train with the recruits. Wear a helmet and see what areas you need to focus on." Bull swung his sword again. "Right now, though, I'm going to wear you out. I hope you really are healed."

I groaned at what he had in store, a hand automatically going over my scar. "I guess we'll find out."

Skjajfdaj

"Harder! That's right Rift! Give it more power! Hands above your head as you strike down!" Bull called to me, this particular session a struggle for me.

I lifted the sword again, my arms almost giving out on me from the constant use today. I knew I was pushing it with this training session, my stomach starting to hurt from the sharp movements. I swung the sword down hard, earning a yell of praise from Bull. I continued to keep fighting, wanting to get the other movements we worked on before in. I spun my sword hard, missing him, and he sidestepped. I barged at him with my shoulder, swinging right after, setting him off balance and I sighed with pride, a hand going to my wound.

"There you go, Rift! You'll be getting to where you were in no time." He patted my shoulder. "You had a lot of training today. Go find Bran and see that your wound is okay. Tomorrow you train with the recruits. Cassandra usually leads them, so you'll be fine. I'll tell her my plan on my way for a drink. Don't forget to get that wound checked, Rift."

I nodded, unable to talk through my panting. I watched as he left and I sat on the bench near the training area, trying to catch my breath. I had a lot to do tonight before going to sleep. I had to see Dagna, check on Dorian's research, and draw the designs for Josephine.

I got up, wiping the piece of sweaty hair from my face and headed toward the bathing area, wanting to get a bath in before heading to see anyone. I took my time going up the stairs and heading through the big doors, knowing this was the fastest route to my room. I needed new clothing if I was going to see everyone. I opened the door to Solas' study, surprised to see new paintings on the wall.

My mouth was open in awe as I stared at them, never realizing what Solas did with his time. Did he do these or someone else? It seems like something he would do. Is that the Fade? I touched the painting, something about this particular painting seemed like home. In fact, that forest looked oddly familiar. Where have I seen it?

"Do you like them?" Solas' voice asked and I jumped in surprise.

"Did you do them?" I questioned, a hand to my chest.

"Some of it," he responded, walking toward me. His hands were behind his back and he tilted his head as he admired the wall. "Cole did this one." He gestured to the painting I admired on the wall.

"They are beautiful," I admitted. "I never pegged you as an artist Solas. Are you going to send your lover your ear for proof of your love?"

Solas' stare was intense as he tried to understand what I asked. "Is that an insult on me being elven?"

It was hard for me not to laugh. "Not at all. It was meant as a joke. Some famous artist sent his lover his ear from my realm. Your style is a lot like his." I winked at him. "Besides, Branwen doesn't need an elven ear, she already has two."

Solas disapproves flashed in my mind, as his face was unamused. "Yes, well. When will we begin our Fade studies again?"

I raised my eyebrows at him. "Our studies? I'll start our studies again when you don't wipe out the races because they aren't elven."

Solas sighed. "You still believe me to be a monster?"

I shook my head. "You are making yourself the monster, Solas."

"I have done nothing so far to prove that. You are quick to judge as many are, myself included." Solas sounded as if he was trying to make me believe what he said is true. I sighed. Maybe things would go different in this world than in actual game. Or maybe he was mind tricking me. This was fucking ridiculous.

"Maybe," I answered with a head nod. "I have a lot of other training and tasks I'm committed to. Nice chatting with you, brah."

"Why do you keep calling me that?" Solas sighed.

I shrugged and kept walking backwards. "Don't worry about it." I turned again, ready to grab those clothes so I can bathe away my sweat.

My muscles ached as I walked the rampart to Cullen's office. My stomach fluttered at remembering the conversation we had by the war table. His door was slightly open and I heard voices from it. "Listen Curly, I can be a big help to you and the Inquisition. Just send me to wherever. I never let you down on missions you sent me on before."

"You forget that I watched you start two wars and an uprising. We can't afford to have that happen with the Inquisition. Also, it's Commander or Cullen," Cullen's voice was in his Commander tone and I sighed. Did these two ever get along.

"Hey," Hawke started, humor in his voice. "Because of my uprisings, you figured out your Knight-Commander was in fact fucking crazy with red lyrium."

"I'm sure other ways would have shown that," Cullen said dryly. "You've already done enough for the Inquisition. We thank you for your help. Unless the Inquisitor tells me otherwise, we have no further business."

"I actually have some business here," Hawke countered, clearly starting to get upset. "I'm helping Varric with a couple things, and I think I might help with training."

"So, I've been told," Cullen growled. "Keep your blood magic out of the training."

I felt my excitement grow. What was in blood magic? I needed to learn! I thought Dorian might teach me, but Hawke would be the better choice. This was so perfect! Wait. Did we really want to upset Cullen by learning blood magic? Is it that bad though? If done correctly?

I gave a soft knock, before opening the door, giving an awkward smile. "Don't mind me, just heading to my room." I glanced at the two of them as I power walked to the door leading to my rampart. "I'll take a different way next time. Didn't mean to intrude."

Cullen's eyes were on me, and they softened as he took me in. I blushed under his gaze and winked at him before opening the door. "It's never any trouble," his voice said softly.

"Captain, wait," Hawke called. He turned to Cullen, who went back to Commander pose, arms crossed. "We'll talk again once I talk to the Inquisitor. See you, Curly."

Cullen grunted, watching Hawke stride toward me. Hawke held the door open for me, and I glanced over my shoulder at Cullen, who was glancing down at his papers. His gaze went to me quickly with the smallest smile before I hurried out of the room.

"I was looking for you earlier," I said casually. I adjusted my staff and kept his pace, though my body hated every second of it. I opened the door to my room and gestured Hawke in. He closed the door and leaned against it, studying me.

"So, you found out my dirty little secret," he sighed. I threw my staff on the bed and unbuckled my belt. My hips were relieved from the loss of the sword's weight.

"Which one?" I asked with an eyebrow raised. "You're secret love affair with Varric or the blonde in your room?"

Hawke almost laughed but his eyes were on me. "Funny one you are." He pushed himself away from the door, slowly walking around my room. He picked up my bag of pixie dust and started to open it. "Why didn't you tell Cullen or Cassandra yet?"

I put my hands on my hips and raised an eyebrow at him. "You might want to stop opening that bag. You'll regret it. Pixie Dust is nasty stuff. Doesn't come off you for days." He stopped opening the bag and kept his gaze on me, waiting for my answer. Apparently, he's used to getting answers whenever he asked. "Did you expect me to nark on you? I know you don't know me, but I don't go ruining other people's business that doesn't include me."

"Nark? What language do you speak?" He loosened the strings to the pouch and started to reach a hand in. "There isn't a real thing called Pixie Dust."

"English, and yeah there is. Ask Cullen," I answered. I watched him grab a handful of the sparkles and examine them.

"Pixies?" He threw the dust toward me and the sparkles went everywhere.

"Come on man!" I groaned. I watched the bed and our clothes get covered in sparkles. I strutted forward and snatched the bag from a surprised Hawke. "What did you think was going to happen?"

"Honestly, nothing." Hawke looked at his arms which were covered in sparkles. "They aren't too bad."

I sighed and reached down to grab clothes from the trunk and threw them on the bed. "I promise I won't tell anyone about Anders if that is what this is about."

Hawke shook his head and set the bag down on the bed. "He told me you wanted to know when I wanted to start training?"

I crossed my arms and looked up at him with a grin. "If you are still willing? I actually have been fascinated with blood magic."

Hawke arched an eyebrow. "Curly won't like that."

"I know," I admitted, biting my lip. "I just want to know what it's about. How is it bad? There has to be some good to it."

Hawke observed me and gave a small smile. "You are surprising me today."

"Is that a good thing?" I shifted my weight to a different leg.

"Yes." He rubbed his hands together, most likely trying to get more pixie dust off. "We'll start training tomorrow. I'll find you. Don't want you trying to self-teach yourself blood magic."

"You're amazing Hawke!" I shouted, wanting to hug him. "Is there anything I can do in return?"

"Help keep Anders company? He seems to like you." He turned to exit, opening it slightly.

"How did he get here?" I asked quickly before he left.

"Cole," Hawke answered, before leaving the room.

"See ya!" I called, watching him turn to run down the stairs toward the stables. I tried to brush off pixie dust as I grabbed my clothes from the bed. I would be glittery for a few days. I should really get rid of it and give it to Sera. First things, first: a bath.

The air smelled amazing and I leaned on the ledge of the rampart to close my eyes and breathe it in. When I did this, it almost felt like I was back home. I shook my head. Until I figured out how to get home, this was my home. I would have to find a way to be content here. Would I be able to? I opened my eyes to the sound of footsteps and saw Jim go into Cullen's office.

He was looking down at the clipboard, hair falling in his face. I sighed. If I was to be stuck here for the rest of my life, I hoped I would have at least him or Dorian by my side. I glanced up at the sky against the mountains, feeling an overwhelming feeling in my chest. As if the sight of the mountains were just too beautiful at this time of day.

The feeling I feel looking at them, was like the feeling I got looking at the Smokey Mountains. They seemed almost like a second home. I felt a peace and wonderment in me and I hadn't felt that since I got to Skyhold. I felt…as if I was going to be okay. Hopefully. I mean, it's been a month and I survived. Wow. It's been a month. A little over a month, actually, I think. When did I get here?

I gave a deep sigh internally, wishing I could stay and just look at the mountains. I had other things I had to do though. I pushed myself away from the wall, promising myself that if I got everything done by sunset, I'd sit and look at the mountains while working on Josephine's sketches.

I slowly walked to the stairs, peeking into Cullen's office as I passed by. He happened to look up at that moment, while talking to Jim, his whiskey eyes brightening a little. I smiled and gave a small wave before almost skipping down the steps. Fuck! Leg muscle spasms. Okay, just walk Kassy. We can private dance in our room later.

The bathing area was empty besides a couple other people. I was glad, still embarrassed at the whole bathing with others situation. I went to where Cassandra showed me where she hid her smells behind a rock in a little alcove. She hid it purposefully here, giving herself privacy behind a large boulder.

I bathed quickly, checking my stomach for any damage from today. I was pleased to see that it didn't seem irritated at all and got out, drying off with a spare shirt I grabbed, making sure to wring the water from my hair really well. I grabbed the comb she left there, pulling it through the snarls before it dried into rats nests. I ran it through my strands a couple times, before deciding I'll just work on it when I get to my room.

After grabbing my dirty clothes and making sure I hid everything where she had it, I headed back to my room. I was glad to have bathed, feeling self-conscious earlier about how I looked and smelled. I ran my fingers through my hair as I walked, trying to comb out the big snarls, before getting to my room. I hummed to myself, Meghan Trainer stuck in my head for some reason. Earlier was "All about That Bass" and now "Me Too".

I closed the door behind me with my foot, throwing my clothes in the corner of the room. I grabbed my comb and began to sing out loud, missing the sound of pop songs. I never thought the day would come when I said I missed listening to Pop music. Any at all. I didn't even care if it was Taylor Swift. Liam totally ruined her for me, but I'd listen to her.

I ran the comb through my hair, my arms hating me for it after the workout sessions today. Think of how toned you'll be though. Yeah brain, but right now, I feel like my arms would be cussing at me if they had a mouth. I got up off my bed, dancing while I combed, hoping that would distract me from the arm burn. "You know my Momma she told me, don't worry about your size. She says boys like a little more booty to hold at night. Dat booty booty. You know I won't be no stick figure Barbie doll. Ooh oooh oooh ooh." I spun on the stone floor, trying to hurry to get my hair brushed properly.

Dumb ancient combs. What I wouldn't give for a Goody brush and some conditioner. "All about that bass, bout dat bass, no treble." I grunted as I tore some hair from my head-on accident, the small tangle at the ends coming with it. Fuck. I'm losing hair now. I threw the comb on the bed and rubbed the spot on my head. "I don't know if you are in this dimension God, but please, don't let me lose all my hair from lack of conditioner and my very little patience with it."

"You could just try Andraste's name instead if you start going bald. Obviously, yours isn't hearing you," Dorian said with an amused smile on his face. "Also, conditioner?"

I turned toward him, blushing at the sight of Cullen there too. Of. Fucking. Course. "Uh, hi guys. What's up?"

Cullen chuckled and leaned a shoulder against the doorway. I hated that he looked so adorable, while I'm here with wet hair and red face. Dorian glanced around the room. "I happened to be talking to Cullen here, when I heard you singing. I didn't want to miss the show." He raised an eyebrow with a smirk. "And what a show it was."

I rolled my eyes, grabbing my lute, throwing it on my back. "Well I'm glad you enjoyed it. I aim to please."

"Booty?" Cullen asked with a grin. I felt myself blush harder. He's was too handsome for his own good, especially when he smiled.

"So, my language is obviously a lot different." I shrugged my shoulders, running a hand through my hair and starting to braid it to the side. "You're lucky I haven't been using dude and yo like I usually do."

"Dude?" Dorian asked, while Cullen simultaneously responded with "Yo?".

I tied off my braid, noticing Cullen watching my fingers as they moved. "So much to teach you gentlemen." I grabbed my bag of pixie dust, looping it on my belt. "Alright, yo. I'm going to see Dagna to see what's left of my stuff that the Commander so graciously gave her. See ya dudes!"

I slid past them, and turned giving them finger guns, before slipping into Cullen's office. Cullen shook his head and had a hand on his neck. Either embarrassed that he gave Dagna my stuff, or just flustered by me. Dorian had a huge grin on his face and hands on his hips, amused by me.

I felt my face still beating bright red and I put my hands to my face to try to lessen it. Way to entertain Captain King. I sighed, running a hand through my hair. Finger guns? Really? Fucking finger guns? Why? What possessed you to do that? When in your life have you ever, ever, used that as a way of saying goodbye? Next, I'll be doing fist bumps. No. I don't do those. High fives? Do those exist here? Why don't I know that much about their gestures? Okay, stop talking to yourself and move before they come back in.

I hurried from the room, shutting the door behind me. I felt weird having my belt without my corset. I just didn't want to upset my injury at all, especially with squeezing myself. I prepared myself for another potential Solas conversation. Or maybe, just maybe, I could pretend I don't see him at all and just walk on by like I do to people at the store that I know that I don't want to talk to. Yes. Let's try that.

I opened the door, making sure to look in the direction of the Great Hall instead of the rest of the room. I strode past the desk, acting like I was going for a casual stroll, almost wanting to whistle to myself.

"Captain, I'm glad you're here. I talked to the Inquistitor and I-." Solas was keeping an even voice, which surprised me. I kept walking, pretending he was like a commercial on the radio. I hummed a little to myself, trying to close the space between me and the door. "Captain." I kept going. I felt a hand on my shoulder. "Captain," he said sharply.

Damn. I thought I'd be able to pull It off. Okay Kassy think. What do you do when you get stuck in this situation at the store? "Oh, hey. Didn't see you there."

He raised his eyebrows. "You didn't hear me?"

I feigned surprise and concern. "I didn't. No. I am terribly sorry though. I have to go. Raincheck?" I took a few long strides backwards.

"I don't know what that means." Solas was genuinely confused and I almost laughed. "It is cloudy but I don't believe-."

"It means we'll talk later," I said over my shoulder. "See ya brah!"

I continued to the Great Hall, happy to have avoided a Solas conversation. Not as smooth as I hoped, but I feel it deserved a pat on the back. I noticed several groups of people talking, some nodding to me as I passed them on the way to the forge. I pushed open the door, standing in awe.

The view out of this place was incredible! I walked down the stairs, open mouthed, trying to take it all in. This was an incredible room, and I was speechless. Dagna sat at the weapons table, hunched over something. I made sure to search every area with my eyes, wanting to really see this area. I always liked this cave. Well, it felt like a cave. A cave with a view.

I cleared my throat and Dagna swiveled her head quickly, her eyes widening when she saw me. She jumped off her stool and stuck out her hand. "Oh! I'm sorry I didn't hear you enter! I was working on a project and I guess I got caught up in it. I'm Dagna, how can I help you?"

The dwarf shook my hand vigorously. I couldn't help but grin at her enthusiasm. Well, I forgot about this character's personality. I need to stop referring to everyone as characters. "Kassy," I replied. I dropped my hand, putting my hands on my hips. "I was actually here for my stuff. Commander Cullen sent a bag down about a month ago."

Dagna gave a huge smile. "You're the one with the mystery items. I have to tell you, I never saw anything like the items you have."

I felt my smile drop. "You took the key apart didn't you?"

She tilted her head in confusion. "A key? Is that what it is? Are you sure?" Dagna ran over to the table she was at, picking up a piece of my unlocking thingy majig.

"Well," I sighed as I looked over the pieces of my keys and broken jewelry. Fuck. This would be my luck. "That's what it used to be. Awesome. You know. Just keep it."

"What does it unlock?" She questioned, her eyes full of excitement.

"Something called a car," I started to explain, not knowing everything that goes into it. "I don't really know all the functioning parts, but there is…well..." This would be easier to draw. I searched the area for paper and ink. I found some on a desk in the corner covered in doodles. I moved the sheet aside, grabbing a fresh piece of paper. I dipped the pen in the ink and started to do a poorly drawn imitation of a car.

"That's so fascinating!" Dagna exclaimed behind me. I laughed, wishing I could draw cars a little better.

"It sort of is," I began, still working on the drawing. "The car runs on fuel. These are tires and the whole top is the body. I mean, there is obviously more to it, but I couldn't really explain it to you. I'm not a mechanic."

I tried drawing a few features of the inside of the car, including the steering wheel and the radio. "What is that?" She asked pointing to the steering wheel.

"It directs the car," I told her. "I wish that I knew more to explain to you, but honestly, this is the cap on my automobile knowledge." I set the pen back in the ink and handed the paper to her. "The key turns the gears of the car and makes it power to life so you can use it."

Dagna held the drawings with complete fascination. "Do you think I might be able to create a copy of this?"

A car in Thedas? How interesting that would be. "I mean, maybe. I wish you luck." I patted her shoulder, glancing over at my broken key with a bit of distress.

"Don't be a stranger!" Dagna called as I headed up the stairs to the door. I gave her a nod and wave, hoping that would be enough of a good bye. I pulled the door shut behind me, looking around the Great Hall.

The hall seemed to be filled with more people, gathered together in conversation. I slipped between the groups, glad for the increase in guests. I sneaked behind the groups, wanting to get to Dorian without being dragged into any conversations. Okay Captain King, walk like you don't care and have a purpose. Well, you do have a purpose. Time to see if there was any finding on how to get back.

I finally made it to the door and I slipped through it, taking the stairs slowly. I miss elevators. My legs started to cramp and I pushed through it, telling them we'd be done soon. On the top step I made sure to gather myself, knowing Dorian would make fun of me if I went in with even the slightest pant. Good work legs! Only down stairs from this point out. Okay lungs, time to calm down and work properly.

I stepped into the library, looking around for Dorian. It was always very quiet here and I always felt everyone else could hear whatever conversation you had. I looked over the railing and had an insane urge to jump down onto Solas' desk.

"Jumping is never the answer," Dorian informed me quietly. I spun to face him, a smile on my face.

"But the look of surprise on Solas' face, when I end up on his papers, would be so satisfying," I countered.

Dorian chuckled and leaned against the railing. "What brings you to this area of Skyhold? Wanting an interesting read?"

I shook my head and crossed my arms. "I was wondering what information you have found yet, but first, what were you and Cullen talking about? I didn't know you two were friendly."

Dorian sighed. "If only the Commander was friendly." His grey eyes turned to me. "I had wondered what the status on the information I had sent out for on Corypheus was. He was in the middle of explaining, when I heard your private performance."

I felt the heat in my cheeks. "I can't believe you guys opened my door without knocking. I could have been naked or something."

Dorian laughed. "Trust me, if you were naked, the Commander would have had a very enjoyable show."

I rolled my eyes, blushing even more red at the thought of Cullen watching me dance around naked singing Meghan Trainor. "Found any new information on how to get home?"

Dorian's eyes were sad as he looked at me. "None yet. I'm sorry. I will keep searching though. There has to be something in this library." His eyes glanced around the room, taking in the books.

"It's alright," I told him, feeling a little disappointed. "I was kind of expecting that answer." I glanced up and saw Leliana leaning on the railing above us. "I'll let you get back to your books."

"Always a pleasure," Dorian replied, watching me leave. I waved, making my way to the stairs that led to Leliana.

I never experienced this area with my own eyes. The birds in their cages were darker and even more ominous looking. I slowly walked over to where I saw Leliana writing, candle flickering by her. It was very quiet up here, and it felt odd to be alone with the spy master herself. "Leliana?"

Leliana glanced up at me, her eyes dark under her hood. I felt like I should take a step back, but I forced myself to stand where I was. It's just a person Kassy. Remember Leliana? She sang songs all the time and was silly. Could open a box easier than Zevran. I wanted to see Zevran! That Antivan hottie.

"Captain, I wasn't expecting to see you." Her voice was soft and her accent made it sound like she was always in a serious mode.

"I didn't mean to disturb you, I just had a couple questions I thought I'd ask you." I swallowed, trying to make my voice stay steady. Why did this Leliana intimidate me so much? Was it because she was a complete badass.

"What questions did you have in mind?" Her body faced toward me now and she crossed her arms.

"When I first got here, you said you were going to send out agents to see if anyone else had a situation like mine. Did they find anything?" I hoped they had, that way I wasn't this freak of nature falling from a rift.

"No, they did not," she replied in a friendlier tone. "It seems that you are a unique situation." I sighed, frustrated that this was the case. "Your other question?"

"How did you become so badass?" I looked her up and down admiring her outfit. "And where can I get those boots?"

She laughed and glanced down at my own. "I was wondering the same about yours. The design is very interesting."

I glanced down at my boots, worn from the adventures they have been through. "They were prettier when I first got them. Thedas sort of beat them up."

Leliana smiled, crossing her arms. "Anything else Captain?"

I shook my head, smiling back. "That's it. Maybe sometime you can tell me some stories about Rowan."

Her eyes showed a bit of shock and she tilted her head. "You know of the Hero?"

I nodded. "I told you I know a lot."

Her voice was a bit more hushed when she talked to me. "Eventually, I will find out how you know all this. Trust me. I'm not used to not knowing other's secrets."

I almost smiled at this, but held it back. "I know. Isn't it more fun this way?" I let the smile loose now, hoping I could be friends with Leliana eventually. She was absolutely my favorite character. I want to be her. "I need to get working on those sketches for Josephine, so I better go."

Leliana laughed and lifted an eyebrow. "I look forward to the sketches. Not as much as Josephine, but your ideas will probably be exceptional."

I blushed and tucked a stray hair behind my ear. "If you guys build them up too much, you'll probably be disappointed."

Leliana shook her head. "Based on how the Commander and Stroud talks of you, I don't think you could."

I couldn't help the grin that came and I gave a nervous laugh. "The Commander and Stroud? Are you just trying to embarrass me?"

She smiled and leaned against the table. "I wish that was the case. However, it is fun to watch the Commander blush when he catches himself talking of you. Stroud, well Stroud bellows your praises to whomever or whatever will listen. The Fade really impacted him."

I glanced down at the ground and cleared my throat. "Well…um…I uh…I should…I should go."

Leliana laughed and grabbed a letter from the table. "I'm sure we will speak soon. Have a good night Captain."

"Good night," I mumbled, turning to the stairs and taking them two at a time down. Cullen talked about me to other people! Hold on Kassy. Take it easy. Don't act like a high schooler. Calm those butterflies and act like a Captain. Just because a hot Commander mentions you to others and Stroud thinks I'm a god it sounds like. I adjusted my lute and my step had a bit more pep to it. CULLEN TALKS ABOUT ME!

That sexy amazing man. I turned to go down the stairs that led to Solas' study, deciding I wanted to see the Lion before working on my sketches. After talking to Leliana I had a very odd boost of confidence and a bit of a high. Very unKassy like, but I wasn't the same Kassy as I was in Michigan. I'm the Captain here in Thedas. I used a sword and magic. I had more self-assurance.

Solas glanced up from his book as I passed, and I gave a huge grin at him, my stride never slowing down. "See you later brah!" I sang to him, adding a salute. His confusion made me chuckle and I opened the door to the rampart, hoping Cullen was in his office and not at a meeting with someone else.

I stopped before opening Cullen's door. I tried to fix my hair without a mirror and tugged on my shirt, adjusting my outfit. I took a deep breath, hoping that my confidence didn't wane once I got into his office. What did I expect to happen when I got in? Make out? Sex? Did it matter? This man talks about you to others. Way to go Captain! Self high-five!

I put an ear to the door, making sure he wasn't in the middle of a conversation. I heard muffled talking but it sounded like him talking to himself. I straightened and opened the door, closing it behind me quietly.

Cullen was leaning over his table, muttering to himself while looking at a report. He ran a hand through his hair and sighed, a blonde curl falling to his forehead. I admired him for a second, my stomach fluttering with butterflies. This man. It was weird having him in person, as me. Not a character. I knew that I would fall in love with this man, hard and fast. If I let myself. Would I though, if I might find a way back home?

Now's not the time to think about it. Now was the time to live in the moment. To just be in Thedas and make a life here, in case I didn't find a way home. "You know, there's a question that I've been wondering ever since I got here."

Cullen glanced up in surprise, his brown eyes warming once he saw me. I walked toward his desk slowly, his eyes watching my every movement. He straightened and crossed his arms, a smile coming to his face. "And what question is that?"

"Well," I began, finally making my way to his desk. I leaned a hip against it. "If the Inquisitor is Inquisitor Lavellan and Stroud, Warden Stroud, shouldn't you be Commander Rutherford?"

I saw his brain working and he put a hand to his neck. "I..uh…I never really…you see….that is. Maker's breath."

I held back a laugh and took another step forward. "I didn't mean to take you off guard. It just makes me wonder if I should have people calling me Captain King or Captain Kassy. You guys really confuse me here when it comes to titles and names."

Cullen chuckled and he gave me a half smile. "Templars used first names with their titles. The habit stuck when I joined the Inquisition." I nodded in understanding, thinking this over. "Are there any other questions I can help you with?"

I shook my head and took a step forward. "No. No more questions that you can help me with."

He smiled now and nodded. "If you need anything else, I'll be here." I nodded and he took his position again, reading his report.

I felt my confidence fading and I knew I had to act fast before it left or I said a lame good bye. I walked around the corner and put my hand on his. He glanced over at me with a bit of question in his eyes. I leaned down and placed a soft kiss on his lips.

Cullen turned and started to straighten, his arm going around my waist. I put a hand up to his face and I deepened the kiss, moving the other to his hair. I got lost in his kiss and he held me closer, his armor hard against me, his other hand on my back.

I broke the kiss and put a hand to his chest. I glanced up at his whiskey eyes and grinned. "That's a thank you for your confidence in me."

His scar twitched and he chuckled. "I uh…"

I gave him another soft kiss and hugged him. "Leliana told me what you say about me." My cheek was in the fur of his robe and I breathed him in. "Just…thank you."

His arms held me tighter and he leaned his head against mine. "Of course," he whispered. It felt right. Him holding me like this. I had to wonder if we were going too fast. If war really does make feelings show more, or if in Thedas, relationships weren't a game. They happened and you were dedicated to them.

This moment felt so surreal and almost dream like. Cullen holding me. Me. Kassy. I kissed him again, and he turned to push me against a wall, leaning into me, one arm against the wall, the other around my waist. I took hold of his curls, opening my mouth and he responded. He broke the kiss to run kisses down my jaw and I sighed, a hand moving to his shoulder. "Cullen," I moaned when he started kissing my neck. I leaned my head to the side, so he had easier access. The kisses trailed back to my mouth and I felt shivers down my body. I let my tongue trace his lower lip and he groaned.

"I have your report sir," Jim's voice said, and Cullen growled.

"Set them on the desk and go," Cullen rumbled to him. Jim set the papers on the desk and stood to the side of the desk. "What?"

"It's just, I was told to give you a run down on…" Jim began and Cullen turned to glare at Jim.

"Um…I should get working on those sketches for Josephine," I told Cullen, my face blushing. I felt my heart still beating fast as I let my arms drop.

Cullen nodded, letting one of his arms go. The other stayed on my hip. "Of course. There are reports for me to review."

I smiled. "Work never stops at Skyhold."

Cullen chuckled and put a hand to his neck. "It seems so."

I took a step back and his hand fell and I gave a small wave and smile. "See ya, then."

Jim turned his back to us, obviously not used to intruding on Cullen with these sort of situations. Cullen smiled back and turned to look at his report again, his smile still on his face as I glanced back, walking out the door. I rushed to my room to begin working on my sketches, ready to finish them and get some sleep.

I grabbed the paper and ink, heading out to look at the mountains. I pulled up a crate and set the ink and paper on it, thinking exactly how I wanted these sketches to go. I was thinking, Kahleesi inspired dress with pants underneath. Easy to run and move in. I sang to myself as I drew, the sky starting to get dark. I decided to draw a backup dress, a dress with the ability to take the skirt off and reattach it easily.

I was almost done when the darkness made it impossible to draw. I sighed, knowing I could finish the sketches in a few minutes. For now, I was going to sit and admire the mountains in the darkness. The moon glowed softly and the mountains seemed mystical in the dark.

It made me think of Mist of Avalon or Lord of the Rings. I began to sing Enya, May it Be, softly, loving the haunting melody in the darkness of Skyhold. "May it be an evening star. Shines down upon you. May it be when darkness falls, Your heart will be true. You walk a lonely road, Oh! How far you are from home."

The elven sounded right here, though I knew it was not the same elven that they spoke in Thedas, but the words were familiar and comforting. I closed my eyes, leaning my head back against the wall, letting the magical feeling of the moment fill me.

I felt a body sit by me, and I continued to sing, turning my head to see who joined. Cullen's hair glowed in the darkness and he had his head titled back against the wall, eyes closed. I smiled as I continued to sing, observing his face in the moonlight.

Cullen was tired, I could tell, and I wondered if he had been able to get a peaceful sleep lately. His body seemed rigid still, but he gradually started to relax as I got further into the song, glad that he was able to let the stresses of the day go in this moment. My song finished and his eyes opened, glancing over to me.

"I enjoyed that one," he muttered. I smiled and laughed.

"It's a favorite in my family," I told him. "We like the slower and dark ones."

Cullen's head turned so that he could see me better. "Are you all bards?"

I laughed and shook my head. "Uh, no. We are just a very musical family. Dad, Liam, and I were the ones who played all the time. We all sing though, and we all have songs we request from Dad whenever he got his guitar out."

Cullen smiled and looked up at the sky. "That sounds nice. A family gathered around singing songs together."

I sighed, remembering those nights. "It was nice. He always ended with his song to my mom."

Cullen looked at me and his smile was gone. "I'd like to hear it."

"You do?" I asked. I thought about Dad and Mom and how every time Dad played that song, we could feel the love between the two of them. They had one of the best love stories. I reached over and grabbed the lute from behind the crate, resting it on my lap. I felt my heart ache a little, thinking of the look between the two of them, and I hoped to find someone, someday to share that look with. "He sang this song to Mom at their wedding."

Cullen smiled and watched my fingers as I began to strum the introduction to "My Sweet Lady" by John Denver. I have heard this song my whole life, and every time my mom cried without fail. "Lady, are you crying, do the tears belong to me? Did you think our time together was all gone? Lady, you've been dreaming. I'm as close as I can be. And I swear to you our time has just begun. Close your eyes and rest your weary mind. I promise I will stay right here beside you. Today our lives were joined, became entwined. I wish that you could know how much I love you."

I kept my focus on my fingers, not wanting to mess up the chords at all, not really a master at this particular John Denver song. I finished the song and my eyes caught Cullen's. His expression was hard to read in the dark. "What?" I asked him, wondering what he was thinking.

"That just wasn't what I was expecting," Cullen whispered. I leaned the lute against the wall next to me and arranged myself next to Cullen.

"Bad or good?" I asked hesitantly, wondering why I felt like I needed to defend this song. Maybe it was because it represented a romance that I grew up with.

"Good," he answered. "The songs you sing, just always have a way of making me think differently. The way you sang it, I just…well…that is. I can see how much your parents love each other."

I nodded in agreement. "They are my relationship goal. Hopefully one day I'll find a song like my dad did for my mom."

Cullen shifted his body and leaned toward me, his lips pressing to mine. His hand went to my hair and I leaned into him. He broke the kiss and leaned his forehead against mine. "La vie en rose," he said quietly, his voice husky.

I reached a hand into his hair, bringing his lips back to mine for another kiss. I smiled, not believing that I was here, with him. That I didn't wake up from a dream. "Cullen?" I asked and he wrapped an arm around me.

"Hmm?" He placed his forehead on mine, his breathing quickening.

"I was just wondering, what…this…well us…is to you," I ventured. I bit my lip, waiting for his answer. My eyes flittered up to his and he moved his forehead from mine.

"This isn't just some casual relationship, if that is what you are after," he told me. "Kassy, I haven't felt this way in a very long time, and I, well, I am sorry if I make you feel that I don't feel for you as you do for me."

I tilted my head and put a hand on his chest. "And how do I feel for you?"

He studied me, his eyes searching my face. "I..um…well…that we share a connection. That even though we've known each other for almost two months, we seem to have known each other longer somehow."

"So, it's not too fast?" I questioned, wanting him to take the lead on this relationship. I grabbed my necklace, twirling between my fingers.

Cullen watched me fidget with the necklace, a lazy smile coming to his face. "Like I said before, I haven't done this in a really long time. Well…I just…feel that when it comes to these sort of things in this type of situation, time shouldn't be a factor. How we feel should."

I just stared at him, my mind processing what he said. "I agree," I responded, smiling. "And as much as I've enjoyed this, I really have to finish those sketches and you need to get some sleep."

Cullen sighed, leaning his head back against the wall again. "I have too much to do to rest."

"Like what?" I asked him, starting to turn to grab my sketch supplies.

"It was nice to escape the Inquisition for a little while," Cullen said softly, ignoring my question. He grabbed my arm and I turned to look at him.

"I know, Cullen, but we both have work to finish before the morning," I told him, giving him a sad smile. Cullen nodded, starting to stand up. I stood up as well, pulling my lute on and carefully gathering my supplies. "You can always bring work to my room," I suggested, glancing over my shoulder at him as I headed to my room.

"Work? In your room?" Cullen asked, sounding like that was a crazy idea.

"Or not," I told him, feeling stupid. Bad suggestion Captain. Apparently. I shrugged my shoulders trying to play it off cool. "Just thought it might be less lonely. However, I get if you want to work in your office. It's fine. I'll see you tomorrow." I gave a smile and went into my room, leaving the door open a crack.

One torch was lit and I grabbed it, lighting the other three, giving myself as much light as possible. I went over to the pile of discarded wood and found a straight, small, and smooth piece of wood to set my paper and ink on.

I threw the board on the bed and placed the papers and ink on it carefully. I pulled off my boots and belt, already feeling more comfortable. I placed my lute by the bed in its usual place, within arm's reach. My head was getting a headache from the braid, so I undid it, using my fingers to massage the top of my scalp, already feeling the relief.

Sighing, I laid down on my stomach at the end of the bed, crossing my feet in the air. I grabbed the pen, glancing at the sketches, before dipping it in the ink and continuing where I left off. I started to sing some Disney songs to myself as I drew, trying to keep my spirits up.

A knock at the door had me glance up and I grinned at Cullen's figure in the doorway. "Couldn't stay away?" I asked.

He put a hand to his neck, his typical awkward Cullen pose. "I…uh…that is…Maker's breath." He had some papers in his hand and a pen in the other. "You said…"

I patted the bed next to me, smiling. "Come on in, Commander." I followed him with my eyes, as he shut the door and came to sit on the bed beside me. His armor was still on and I glanced at his boots. He could not be comfortable. "Aren't you uncomfortable in that armor?"

Cullen looked down at his armor. "I guess I don't realize I'm wearing it anymore."

I raised an eyebrow at him. "You don't realize you are wearing super heavy metal?" I tapped his boots with my pen. "No boots on the bed mister."

"I knew this was a bad idea," he muttered, placing the letters on the bed and leaning over to pull off his boots. I watched him, his muscles moving as he got his boot off. He shrugged off his robe, throwing it over the chair in the corner, before unbuckling his armor. He added that to his pile and turned to me, I couldn't help but stare as he arranged his armor on the chair. Oh. My.

Cullen turned to me with annoyance. "Better?"

I nodded, a smile coming to me. "Much." I felt my heart race and I turned back to my sketches. Cullen sat back on the bed and I glanced back at him, my ankles crossed on my pillow. He was reading a report, a pillow propped behind his back. I could get used to this. I tried to imagine him with glasses. Wait, Kassy. Focus. Finish the sketches.

I sighed, focusing on the paper in front of me. I began to hum again, my attention on the details of the dress. Finally, I was done with the sketches, and I was surprised that they took that long. I sat up, stretching my back. I looked over and smiled. Cullen was asleep, his letter resting on his chest. I gathered my things, setting them on my trunk and carefully grabbed his papers and letter.

His hand twitched and he turned his head, a slight snore coming from him. I knew he was tired. I went around the room, extinguishing the torches except the one by the door. The room was darker now and I quietly made my way to the bed, making sure to not move it too much as I crawled onto it. I sat there awkwardly for a second, not sure whether to just lay by him or cuddle. Trying to decide on a decision, I crawled to my pillow, and decided that it would feel creepy to sleep on him.

I laid my head on my pillow and closed my eyes, ready to pass out. I felt myself starting to slip into sleep when Cullen started to mutter beside me. I turned hoping that his nightmare would pass. His fists clenched and his head started to move. His muttering got louder, "No," he said. "No!"

I sat up, putting my hand on his chest. "Shh, Cullen, wake up. Cullen," I told him softly. Cullen gasped, sitting up, and his eyelids fluttered open in confusion.

"I," he began. I shushed him and grabbed his hand.

"It's alright, Cullen," I muttered. He closed his eyes leaning back.

"You shouldn't have to deal with this," he told me. He shook his head, pulling his hand away.

"Let someone worry about you once in a while," I told him. I put a hand on his cheek and he turned to look at me. "Cullen, let me be there for you."

Cullen shook his head. "I can't do that to you. This is…this is my problem." He started to get up.

"Cullen," I said sharply, grabbing his arm. He turned to me and opened his mouth about to say something, before turning back.

"You couldn't understand. I will never be free of these nightmares," Cullen whispered.

"I get nightmares, Cullen. Trust me," I told him. "Maybe we can help each other." I moved to him on my knees, hugging his back. "I understand." He held onto my arm, taking a deep breath. I kissed the back of his head and leaned my head against his. "I get if you need to be by yourself, but I'm here if you want to stay."

I went back to my spot, throwing back the covers to crawl under them. I hugged my pillow, closing my eyes, knowing that Cullen probably needed time to himself. I laid on my side, facing away from him, trying to fall asleep, but couldn't knowing he was still in the room.

I felt the bed move and an arm draped over my waist, pulling me into a strong chest. I rolled over to my other side to face him. "You stayed," I said surprised.

His eyes held mine and he tilted his head down to kiss me. I lifted my chin to kiss him more comfortably before snuggling my head into his chest. He kissed the top of my head and he held me tighter. I felt my eyes get heavy, and I quickly slipped into sleep.

Adfpasdfa

The soldiers stood around with their weapons, waiting for the training to begin. I adjusted the helmet that Iron Bull put on me, before pushing me into the direction of training. I adjusted the sword in my hand, feeling nervous about this. I licked my lips, glancing at the others.

I woke before Cullen this morning, and I crawled out of the bed, trying to not wake him. I grabbed my boots, sword, and belt, knowing I wouldn't need my staff for training. I slipped out the door, quietly closing it behind me. Now here I was, standing in armor, waiting for Cassandra to give the orders.

This was going to go well or horribly wrong. I bit my lower lip, hoping I would at least make it through the training without being noticed. Cassandra trained me though, so I should be okay…right? There was a shout and we all went quiet.

I turned toward the direction of where everyone was looking and groaned. Cullen was strutting toward us with his sword, calling out orders. What happened to Cassandra training us? "Pair up and begin."

The person to my left turned and brought their sword down, surprising me. I spun out of the way and brought my sword up. The soldier kept going, testing me. I felt the soreness in my arms from yesterday still and fought through it.

"Arm higher," Cullen called to a soldier near me. "And you, reflex faster." Cullen was by me now, studying the fight. He looked like his usual Commander self, armor and all.

I saw my opponent get nervous and I took the chance, swinging but they saw it coming. They came forward and I ran into them with my shoulder, watching them fall to the ground. "You need to pay more attention and keep your ground." Cullen helped the soldier up. "And you need to strike harder," Cullen told me. "Try again."

He watched us get into position and we began, and I struck harder but was deflected. Suddenly their sword was on me and the fight got intense. I spun, hitting their armor. They were stunned for a second and I used my foot to hook with their ankle, yanking fast. They lost their balance and fell, their sword falling from their hand.

"If you had better footing, that wouldn't have happened. Watch," Cullen got his sword ready. He sized me up and I wondered if he knew it was me. I didn't have much time to think because he was on me. He was much more intense than Cassandra and Iron Bull. I gave it my all. "Arm up!" He yelled. I obeyed, spinning at the same time. He kept giving me orders, helping me improve my skills, and I felt myself getting more confident.

I leaned toward more of Bull's moves and Cullen seemed to notice. "Quanari moves?"

I didn't answer, shoulder bashing him. Cullen held his ground, but I managed to move out of his swing. I knew I wouldn't be able to last much longer, my arms shaking with the effort of holding up the sword after the intensive training yesterday. My midsection was pulsing from the constant lifting of my sword. Cullen shouldered me and I tripped over my foot, falling backwards. Cullen stood over me, panting from the fight.

"You could use some more training," Cullen told me and I nodded in understanding.

He glanced down at me and pointed to my stomach. "You're bleeding, you should go get that checked out." He held out a hand and helped me up before going to observe the other fights.

"Shit," I muttered to myself, putting a hand to my wound. I brought it back and saw the blood on it. Fuck. I pulled off my helmet in frustration and threw it on the ground, before heading toward the healing tents. Bran will be super pissed.

My hair stuck to my face from sweating so much under the helmet. I glanced behind me at the training, not seeing Cullen. I kept going, wanting to get this chest plate off me. "Rift?" I glanced over seeing Iron Bull leaning against a post. "That was fast. The Commander training you too hard?" His eyes went to my stomach and his smirk disappeared.

"I'm fine, really," I tried to assure him, feeling exhausted. "I'm going to get it checked out."

"Like you were supposed to yesterday?" He asked me. "You didn't, did you Rift?"

I shifted my weight to my other leg, feeling more of my hair come out of it's braid. "I thought I was fine."

He raised an eyebrow. "Go. Now." He crossed his arms and gave me his Chief glare.

"Okay," I told him, starting to walk toward the tents. "You're the boss Chief."

The walk was longer than usual and my hand was covered in blood. I opened the tent that Bran was typically in. Bran glanced up from sorting his herbs and then saw where my hand was. He glared at me and crossed his arms. "Really Captain? So soon after gaining your freedom?"

I sighed and nodded. "I didn't realize it would be so easy to bleed again."

Bran shook his head, unbuckling my armor. "I told you not to train to hard. It's still fragile." I shrugged out of the armor and Bran grabbed a stool before leading me outside. "I need better lighting to get a look at it."

I sat down on the stool and waited for Bran to begin his work. He came out with water and a basket. He sat down on his knees, lifting up my shirt. I helped him roll it up and held on to it, the shirt covered in blood. "I feel like I'm never going to have a blood free shirt."

Bran glanced up at me as he washed the wound, getting the blood out of the way. "With the way you train, you probably won't."

I chuckled and watched him touch the wound gingerly. I hissed through my teeth and scrunched my hand. "How bad is it?"

He reached down and grabbed a needle and some thread. "You'll need some stitches and no swordplay for a couple days."

"I'm supposed to leave with the Inquisitor tomorrow," I gritted through my teeth, as he put the thread through.

"As long as you don't do extensive fighting, you should be fine to travel," he informed me, keeping his eyes on his work. "There's still a little infection from the venom in here. We should try extracting it before I close it. It might be a good thing that you actually pushed yourself. You forced the venom to the wound."

I felt my hands shaking a little. I was never good at this medical stuff. "Whatever you have to do Bran."

He bit the end of his string, putting the needle back in the basket and pulled out the string. "Hold her," Bran told whoever was behind me. I glanced behind me and saw Dorian. He stared down at my wound and put his hands on my shoulders.

"You shouldn't have been doing so much sword training," Dorian chastised. I rolled my eyes.

"I'll be fine," I said, grateful for his presence. "How did you know?"

"Iron Bull," he answered, his face stern.

"Ready?" Bran asked and I nodded. He put a hand on my stomach and I felt a bit of discomfort, nothing like the pain I felt the first time. I gritted my teeth and took a deep breath, trying to not squirm. A couple minutes later, the discomfort disappeared and Bran sat back to look at the wound. He grabbed a cloth and wiped it, black coming on it.

"Is that…poison?" Dorian asked, his voice sounding fascinated.

"Venom," Bran answered. "There was still some trapped in there. Looks like we cleared it out though, and the healing process should be a little faster."

I sighed in relief, glad that the venom was gone for good. I leaned my head back to glance up at Dorian. "Do you mind doing me a favor?" Dorian quirked an eyebrow and nodded. "Can you grab a new shirt, my lute, and the sketches on my trunk for me?"

"I can manage that," he informed me, squeezing my shoulder. "I'll be back."

Bran stitched me up as I sat still, waiting for him to give me the okay to move again. I glanced around, trying to take my mind off the pain of the needle going in and out. Bran put the needle back in the basket and grabbed the bandage and jar of medicine. He dabbed some potion on me, and then started to wrap the bandage around my middle. He secured the bandage and looked up at me. "There, we are finished."

Dorian was running back to us, lute on his back, shirt and sketches in his arms. I smiled at him standing up. Dorian set the sketches on the stool and handed me the shirt. "Thank God for you, Dorian," I told him. I glanced around, making sure it was only Bran and Dorian there. I pulled my bloody shirt off, neither man really caring. I shook out my new shirt, and felt the bandage come loose. "Damn it," I muttered.

"Here," Bran told me, coming over and adjusting the bandage. I watched him work with the bandage, trying to make it stay secure. I heard Dorian clear his throat and I glanced up and saw Cullen, his stride urgent as he made his way toward us, stopping when he saw I was topless except for my strapless bra. He blushed and put a hand to his neck, walking more slowly toward us. Dorian chuckled and I felt myself blush as well.

"Iron Bull informed me that you were hurt," he took me in, glancing down at my bandage, then up my body, finally resting on my face. I felt my face beat a brighter red. I hated that this was happening. Bran finished securing the bandage and I threw on the black shirt Dorian brought down to me.

"I just reopened my wound, but everything is okay." I grabbed my lute from Dorian, giving him a smile. Dorian winked at me. "Thanks Dorian."

"Of course," he told me with a cheeky grin. "I'll see you later, Captain."

I rolled my eyes at him and turned to Bran. "Am I free to go?"

He was putting everything in his basket and he nodded glancing up at me. "No sword play for a few days. Got it."

"Yes sir," I answered, earning a smile from him. I grabbed my sketches and turned to Cullen.

"You didn't have to leave training to come check on me," I told him.

Cullen glanced at the ground and then at me. "I just..well I…I was worried."

I smiled at him, walking over to him. "I appreciate it," I told him, placing a kiss on his cheek. I glanced around, and snatched my belt, not wanting to forget it. "I have to go see Josephine. You done with training?"

He shook his head. "I don't think we will ever be done with training," he sighed. "How did you manage to break open the wound?"

I gave him a sly smile and put on my belt. "Well, I was doing combat with the Commander. Must have pushed it too far."

Cullen did a double take and put a hand on my arm. "I didn't realize that was you. Maker's breath," he sighed, a hand going through his hair. "I should have realized it was you. The moves and the bleeding." He glanced down at my stomach. "Are you really alright?"

I laughed and nodded. "I seriously am. Just going to take it easy for a few days. Stick to magic." He sighed and stared at me, his eyes intense on my face. "What?" I asked.

"I'm just worried for you, for when you leave with the Inquisitor tomorrow," he told me. His hand rubbed my upper arm and I gave a small smile.

"I'll be fine," I told him. He arched an eyebrow. "Seriously Cullen, I will be fine. I don't plan on doing any huge fights."

He nodded and he cleared his throat, taking a step back. "The healer said that?"

"Yes," I answered. I glanced down at my sketches. "I should get these to Josephine before anything happens to them."

"The American sketches?" Cullen asked with a lopsided grin. I felt the butterflies in my stomach and I ordered them to go away.

"Of course," I told him. "I don't do anything any other way." I twirled and started walking toward the stairs that led up to the tavern. I knew that I would want to hurry and get back to my room to rest. I would have a long few days ahead.

"Kassy," Cullen called. I turned to look at him, and he glanced at the ground before returning his stare to me. "Be careful."

"I will," I told him with a smile. I continued up the stairs, stopping at a noise. I tried to follow it, wondering where it was coming from. A kitten? Was that a kitten? I kept going, following the noise to a bush by the tavern. I leaned down, moving the leaves aside. A little orange kitten sat there, mewing at anyone who would listen.

"Hey little fella," I cooed to him, reaching down and scooping him up with my free hand. The kitten meowed again and I snuggled it to my chest. The kitten started to purr, trying to get closer to my chest. "Come on, Captain Purr. You'll be my companion."

I kissed the top of the kitten's head, and headed to the kitchen, wanting to get it some milk. Captain Purr drank his milk quickly, very content with the attention he got from me and the kitchen staff. I picked Captain Purr up, ready to get these sketches to Josephine.

I made my way down the Great Hall, toward Josephine's office. I waved at Varric as I passed him sitting at a table. "Prophet!" He called. I stopped as he came toward me. "Hawke wanted me to tell you to meet him at his room for your lesson."

I raised my eyebrow at him. "So much for finding me."

"You're a hard one to find," Varric laughed. "Also, thanks for not telling anyone about Blondie."

I smiled at him. "Of course," I replied. He nodded, heading back to his table. "See ya later, Prophet."

I hurried to Josephine's office, excited to get to the lessons with Hawke. Josephine's office was empty when I got there, so I set the sketches on her desk, hoping she would see them. I cuddled Captain Purr with both hands and he meowed. "Shh," I told him, scratching behind his ears.

I turned toward the stairs that led up to the guest rooms, stopping to rest my legs. Captain Purr started to wiggle and I put a tighter grip on him. "Almost there, Captain," I panted. I started on the stairs and finally got to the top. Second from the last, I told myself. I headed to the door, knocking.

The door remained shut and I knocked again. "Hawke? Varric told me to meet you here. It's Captain King."

There was movement behind the door and then the door opened a crack. I pushed the door open, slipping in and shutting it behind me. Anders was facing the window, staring at the garden. "Hawke is talking with the Inquisitor right now."

"Oh," I said, shifting Captain Purr in my arms. "Stay still Captain Purr."

Anders turned quickly, his eyes on my arms. "You brought me a cat?" His eyes lit with excitement and he stepped forward.

I looked down at Captain Purr with a bit of sadness. Might as well. "Umm…yeah. His name is Captain Purr," I told him handing him the orange kitten.

Anders took him and a smile was on his face. "Hey, Captain," he said, lifting the kitten so their noses were touching. I watched in confusion. This dude was seriously into cats.

Maker's breath, what did I do?