It had taken a few hours to finish healing the injured farmers. The infection originated from the demon's blood that had infected the wolves. I could only deduce that the infection occurred when the wolves tried to attack the demon. Once the blood was in their system, the demon's will worked it's way into the wolves' minds like a parasite and drove the wolves insane.
I thanked the Maker that the potency of the infection was diluted enough in the wolves that it did not have the same effect on the farmers themselves when transmitted through the wolves' bites. A combination of powerful poultices and healing magic had gotten the poison out, leading to fully healed wounds. The farmers and their families were full of gratitude.
"My husband and I can't thank you enough for ridding us of the wolves and healing our people," Elaina spoke from behind me.
"Just doing what needs done, serah," Cullen responded, he had returned from helping the soldiers setup camp to see how I was faring.
Elaina blushed at Cullen, "Aren't you sweet?"
"Erm- thank you," Cullen rubbed the back of his neck.
"Would you and your soldiers join us for dinner?" Elaina offered.
The farmers and their families had returned to their homes, the presence of the Inquisition's soldiers making them feel safe enough to return. Now a very large and worn dining table sat in the main hall, long benches placed on either side. Before the families had left, Elaina offered profuse apologies when she confessed that she had been able to hide away a good stock of food before the bandits were able to steal or poach everything.
She'd offered them all invitations to return to the main house for a celebratory feast. They had gracefully understood her cautiousness in only offering minimum rations in case they had to be dug in for awhile. Tears had shone in the older woman's eyes at their acceptance of her apology, though she'd done her best to hide them; clearly she'd been afraid of their reaction.
"That would be most appreciated," Cullen consented.
...
After seeing to a perimeter check, assigning patrol rotations and setting a guard outside the main house, Cullen joined me as we were seated closest to Dennet and his wife. We'd both removed our disgusting armor to our shirts and leather pants after washing our hands and faces out of respect for Elaina. The soldiers not currently on duty doing the same before sitting further down the table with the farming families.
Cullen was next to me and across from him Dennet's daughter, Seanna, was peppering Cullen with questions about the Inquisition. The man next to Seanna, Dennet's head farmhand named Bron, was trying to make conversation with her whenever she took a breath, but she'd blush and turn back to Cullen. I chuckled to myself, feeling a little sorry for the farmhand as it was obvious he cared for Seanna.
"So, halla-rider," Dennet began as his sharp eyes shifted to me.
I nearly choked on my food, "Excuse me?"
"You're an elf aren't you?" Dennet looked confused as his eyes flicked the points of my ears, now exposed without my hood, though I'd tied a bit of fabric around my head to cover the brand on my forehead.
"Yes, but-"
"I don't mean o'fense. Those halla are right noble beasts. I'd give my right arm to ride one," Dennet explained earnestly, his voice wistful as he spoke of the halla.
"I see," and chuckled, "Will you be able to provide us with mounts?"
"Is the Inquisition gonna do anything about the bandits, rogue templars and mages stalkin' about?" his tone sharp again, "You can't send a 'dred of the finest horses in Ferelden down the road like you do a letter. Every bandit between here and Haven will be on them like flies on crap. You'll 've mounts once I know they won't end up as a cold winter's breakfast."
Cullen turned from Seanna to answer Dennet, "I have sent word to the Inquisition's headquarters in Haven for more troops. The soldiers and I will keep watch tonight. The rest should arrive in a few days."
"That's good and well," Dennet waved a swarthy hand in dismissal, "but Elaina and Bron'll tell ya what we need. I want my farmers safe in exchange for my horses."
Cullen looked slightly irritated, but said, "That sounds reasonable."
Elaina nudged Dennet hard in the side, he gave her a confused look in response causing her to return a glare.
"How-However," Dennet muttered, "you deserve somethin' for all your help with the wolves and healin' the farmers. There's two chestnuts in the barn that're purebred Ferelden Forders. Take care of 'em and they'll take care 'a you. I'll show 'em to you in the mornin'."
We were silent for a time, so I focused my attention on my plate. Elaina had recruited me to help her prepare the feast for us and the farmers after I had finished healing. She'd had me roast druffalo and goat, boil potatoes, roast root vegetables and bake bread. She'd told me with the help of my fire magic - which I had to resist admitting was feeble even with the advice from Solas - I had saved her hours of cooking.
I dug into the food and stifled a groan at how delicious it was. We hadn't had a truly decent meal in weeks, the rabbit the prior evening the closest thing. Elaina had showed her gratitude by offering the best food of the stock she'd kept out of the bandits' clutches. They were in desperate need of protection and the Inquisition was in desperate need of food that wasn't beans. An idea struck me.
"Where are the bandits hiding?" I asked aloud.
"We're not sure. There's news of 'em all over the Hinterlands," Bron's deep voice answered, "If we could at least build some watch towers with signal fires so we can alert everyone when an attack is comin', that would be more than what we have now. Repairs to the farmers' houses need doin', fences need mendin', tools need fixin'..."
"I'd feel more at ease with the farmers purchasing livestock to breed new herds and seed to plant with watchtowers," Elaina agreed, "And your soldiers could serve as protection on the road to Redcliffe when they go."
I exchanged a glance with Cullen. He seemed to be thinking what I was - we were going to be in the Hinterlands for a while.
"If we helped build the watchtowers, helped with initial repairs and permanently stationed some troops here, would you be willing to give us mounts and supply the Inquisition with food in exchange for continued protection?" I asked.
I saw Cullen jerk his head at me out of my peripheral, but I kept my eyes on our hosts. Dennet, Elaina and Bron all exchanged glances. I watched as a silent conversation played out between the three of them.
"That sounds like a fair exchange," Bron nodded once an agreement had been made, "Though whatever we give will have to be leftover from what we give to the Arl."
At that, I looked to Cullen who had been studying me, but didn't seem angry.
"We can discuss business further in the morning. Tonight I think we've all earned a rest," Elaina smiled.
...
"How long have you been a horsemaster, Dennet?" Cullen asked curiously, a glass held between his hands.
Everyone else had retired for the evening or begun their patrols, but Elaina had invited us to join them for a nightcap. Cullen wanted to refuse, but I thought that would be rude after all Elaina and Dennet had done for us. So, I'd convinced Cullen to return once he'd finished his most urgent duties while I checked on those who'd had injuries earlier.
After seeing to camp, a second perimeter check and ensuring that the soldiers were following rotations - and much to my surprise - he'd returned. We now sat close together near a fireplace in a room off the main hall, Elaina and Dennet sharing a couch across from where Cullen and I sat in some comfortably worn leather armchairs.
"I served Arl Eamon for thirty years as horsemaster," Dennet began, his voice a little wistful, "It all began when I was accompanying my father to Redcliffe Castle. A young stallion 'ad broken free and was gonna trample a serving girl. I was able to calm it down before that happened. The horsemaster at the time asked my father to let me be his apprentice.
"Durin' that time, I tended the horses and taught everyone young enough how to ride. I even taught the young King Alistair while he was still livin' at the castle. I became horsemaster after my predecessor died o' the Blight.
"Nearly ten years later, the Fifth Blight happened. I was lucky to 've been in Denerim at the time with Elaina and Seanna when the undead attacked the village. We returned after word came that the Hero of Ferelden 'ad put an end to it. I helped Arl Eamon rebuild after the Blight before retiring out here to get some peace and quiet," he laughed the last part.
"Sounds like an exciting life," I murmured, a soft smile on my face.
"It has been," Dennet said softly before taking Elaina's hand and kissing it, earning a blush from Elaina.
I looked at Cullen from under my lashes. He was looking between Dennet and Elaina with a sad smile on his face. His eyes flickered to me and I looked away quickly, my cheeks reddening.
"I just wish I understood why King Alistair has allowed the mages to take refuge in Redcliffe," Elaina voiced irritably.
We had informed Elaina and Bron that purchasing anything in Redcliffe would have to wait due to the current situation with the mages. Elaina had vented her frustration, but she was a woman of preparedness. She had been able to store some seed in the stockpile she'd made; enough to plant a few fields. They also admitted that there were a few druffalo housed in the stables that would enable them to breed a few calves.
When Cullen had asked how they'd kept the bandits from stealing the horses, Bron had gotten a dark glint in his eyes before saying the farmers' mabari had ensured that any bandits who tried to get to the horses wished they'd never set foot on the farmland - and never left. Unfortunately, all but two of the noble canines had succumbed to wounds received while protecting the horses. At the mention of mabari residing in the stables and the potential for pups once the canines had recovered fully, I'd watched as Cullen's face lit up like a boy receiving a Wintersend gift. I couldn't help the flutter in my chest at how adorable he'd looked.
"We are determined to find out as well," Cullen murmured, pulling me from my thoughts.
"Arl Eamon wouldn' 've stood for it," Dennet growled before taking a swig of his brandy.
"Perhaps the King does not know the extent of the issue?" I offered, sipping my own glass of wine.
"I hope that is the case, but shouldn't he be traveling here to assess the danger of the...what did you call it? The Breach?" Elaina asked, a silver brow quirking.
"I suppose he should, but we have heard no word of his coming," Cullen informed grimly.
"I don't know why he was made King," Dennet dissented, "I liked the boy when I knew him, but he wasn't king material."
"Dear, that is our king you speak of," Elaina chastised, embarrassment flushing her wrinkled face.
"I know what he and the Hero did for us, but being a hero doesn't make him a good king," Dennet continued, ignoring his wife's warning.
"Is he a bad king?" I asked, taking a sip of my wine.
Technically, the man was my king, but being in the Circle his rule didn't have much direct effect on my life. I had a vested interest in his ruling now that I was potentially going to be an actual citizen of Ferelden with the mages being free. Along with the fact that the Inquisition was based in a town within his kingdom, growing an army, gaining influence...
"He hasn't been good or bad," Elaina offered, "He's just neutral."
"I suppose I'd rather have a neutral king than a bad one," I pondered aloud.
"True enough, but inaction is no better than bad actions," Dennet argued, taking another swig.
"That is true, too. As we've seen plainly enough from the Chantry's inaction surrounding the Breach," Cullen huffed.
"Aye," Dennet nodded, "that's why I hope I won't regret putting in with you lot."
"Will you join us in Haven?" Cullen asked, taking a tiny sip from his own glass.
"I can't say I'm not tempted," Dennet admitted before looking to his wife, "but it feels wrong to abandon my lands to go play horsemaster again. Especially while there's so many in need still. Perhaps I'll reconsider if your Inquisition proves itself."
Cullen nodded and stood, "If you'll excuse me, I need to go take over from the first watch. Thank you very much for the meal and the company."
"Please, dear, you look like you're in need of rest," Elaina spoke before she looked at me, "You both do. Our able-bodied men have offered to work with your recruits tonight as thanks. I want to offer you both beds and a bath to show our gratitude."
"Thank you, ma'am, but-" Cullen began to refuse, clearly uncomfortable at the idea of luxuries being given.
"-We would be honored," I cut Cullen off.
I understood on a level his discomfort, but these next few weeks would be long enough without us both being exhausted. He needed rest and a clear mind to direct the soldiers and help with what needed to be done to uphold our end of the bargain. I needed rest in order to properly act as healer, if some of the women's rounded abdomens were any indication as to what lay ahead, and help where I could.
Elaina gave us a broad smile, the warmness of it taking years off her face. She stood, kissed Dennet on the cheek and gestured for us to follow as she headed for the main door. Dennet nodded us off and headed for the stairs at the back of the house. Elaina led us down the path from the main house to one of the small cabins nearby. Inside there were two beds pushed fairly close together, a modest fireplace, candles lit on the top of a chest of drawers and a copper tub already full of water.
"I apologize for the water, it's not warm, but I figured you could solve that," Elaina looked pointedly at me, "I couldn't bear the thought of you sleeping on the ground after all your help today. Goodnight," she smiled and left.
Cullen and I observed the room before meeting each other's eyes. We stared a moment too long, both of us looking away quickly. My face pounded with embarrassment. Cullen rubbed the back of his neck. We would truly be alone, no prying eyes or listening ears in a setup like this and I had to admit I was nervous. We'd never been completely alone, never unobserved. Perhaps I hadn't thought this through.
"You can have the bath first," I said quickly, making for the door as my nerves won out, "I'll go check with the others."
Cullen took my wrist gently, stopping me. I turned to face him though unable to meet his eyes as the blood was still pounding in my face. When he didn't say anything, I finally looked up at him. His cheeks were flushed, but his eyes were gentle.
"What kind of gentleman would I be if I took a bath before the lady?" he chuckled, his voice a little hoarse.
I laughed nervously in response, causing him to straighten.
"You've done a lot for us today," Cullen smiled with genuine warmth, "Enjoy this little luxury. I will check in with the soldiers and ensure things are running smoothly."
I watched his back as he left the cabin. Once he was gone, I faced the bath. Placing my hands on the sides, I summoned fire magic to warm it. My magic was coming far easier now, but fire still seemed unwilling to cooperate. I kept warming the tub until steam began rolling off the top of the water.
There was a bar of soap, a washcloth and a towel sitting on the lip. I washed my small clothes and tunic before I slipped into the water. I almost cried at the comfort of it, unable to recall the last time I had bathed, besides the occasional sponge baths to remove blood from my face and hands.
I sat for awhile before I started scrubbing my skin with the soap. The bath lost its joy as I was once again forced to look at the damage Alrik had done to me. Scars marred nearly every inch of me. The bronzed skin broken by glossy, white crescents where his and the demon's blades had disfigured my flesh. Bethany said she'd healed what she could, but most had been too far healed for her to erase. Hidden under my armor, I could almost pretend I wasn't damaged, but here -naked in the light- there was no denying it.
Nausea rolled in my stomach as the ghost of memories began whispering in my mind. I threw myself out of the tub before I gave in to the desire to rub my skin bloody in an attempt to clean away the violations. Hot tears pricked my eyes at the same time goosebumps erupted across my flesh, the sudden change in temperature jarring. I put my small clothes back on, not caring that they were wet, and pulled my tunic on too.
I used my feeble fire magic to dry them as much as I could without burning them. I couldn't pull my leather leggings up on my wet legs despite furious drying with the towel and attempting to use my fire to dry the damp skin. The stubborn element refused to cooperate beyond drying my clothes to the point of being damp, but not soaking. I left the leggings behind as I walked out the door before the whispers of memories tried to become shouts.
I stayed as far away from the fires the soldiers had lit as I could, but didn't have a plan as to where I was going. I scurried around a group at the back of the farms, continuing up a steep hill that overlooked the farmland. I heard the sounds of animals in the darkness, but wasn't afraid as I would be able to defend myself now. I just kept walking, hoping I could outrun the thoughts plaguing my mind.
Though experiencing Alrik's torture in an almost secondhand way had helped me to process it, I had not been wholly detached from the experience. My body had ached in the aftermath, each scar feeling freshly carved into my skin, my insides torn. I had only stayed intact emotionally because I'd been able to go through the memories knowing I had made it out, that I had recovered, and my attacker had faced justice. When Bethany had recounted her sister's killing of Alrik, my preference would have been for him to have ended up rotting away in a prison to the swift death he'd received.
I found myself in an odd place, as if my past and my present were unfolding simultaneously. Cullen was both there and here, Minaeve was both there and here, I was both there and here. As if I was walking in the light of the present with the shadows of the past hooking into my flesh in an effort to drag me back. I wanted to let go, to dispel the darkness.
As the dark thoughts had begun whispering in my mind, however, I realized I had been suppressing and ignoring instead of facing and healing. How did I heal from such a thing? Reliving it in the Fade had made it feel as if it had happened to someone else; that she had died in that cell and I now walked in her skin; and I was unsure of the fit. I am no longer Neria, but who is Meira?
"Why aren't you sleeping? Is something wrong?" Cullen's voice suddenly asked, close enough I could hear him over the nearby waterfall.
I nearly jumped out of my skin. He was without a tunic, instead it was slung over his shoulder; his hair and bare skin wet. I noticed his wildly curls had returned, a few pieces sticking to his forehead. His armor was on the ground, a pile of cloths and a container of oil sat near. My eyes caught on the sword in his hand, the scabbard grasped by his other in anticipation of an attack. He'd stood upon hearing my approach. My cheeks burned at his lack of clothing, so I kept my eyes on his face which held concern.
"I wasn't tired, so I thought a walk would do some good," I said, nervously.
"Oh, I'll -," Cullen paused as his eyes looked me over, his face going scarlet, "In-in just your tunic?" he cleared his throat, "It's damp, won't you get cold?"
At his words, I realized just how cold I was having been too distracted by thoughts. My entire body erupted in goosebumps as I started shivering. Uselessly hugging myself to try and get warm, Cullen hurriedly put his fur mantle around my shoulders.
"What's wrong?" he murmured as he tried to rub some heat in my arms.
I couldn't meet his eyes as I thickly mumbled, "Nothing, I'm fine."
"Can I at least walk you back to the cabin?" he asked quietly.
I nodded.
Had to cut this chapter into two as this first part is almost 4,000 words long! I'm hoping to stay within the 3-4,000 word count per chapter from here on out. I do try to break chapters where it feels the most natural, so sometimes it's been shorter or longer than that up to this point (and may be after). This break probably felt a little sudden - I apologize for that, but the next half is gonna be...well you'll see :)
Thank you for reading! Faves, follows and reviews are always welcome and appreciated!