The skittering. That always came first. She could hear their tiny, countless legs behind her. The numerous beady, black eyes focused solely on her as if she were prey. Her heart pounded in her chest like a mighty war drum threatening to burst. The sky above was a twisted concoction of red and green.

"Shit," Vera muttered, as she slipped.

She could feel her palm sting, but kept going. She climbed as high and fast as her arms and legs could carry her. As she neared the top, a bright figure reached out a hand to her. Vera extended her hand to the glowing figure.

Vera bolted upright, her heart racing and perspiration beading on her forehead. She examined her surroundings.

A desk and bookshelves were situated in the far left corner, the desk cluttered with papers and reports. To her right, was the small couch. She was still in Skyhold.

"Not again," she murmured with a sigh.

Ever since the Temple of Sacred Ashes, she'd had the same dream over and over. Lately, the dreams had been growing worse and she didn't know how to fix it.

Keeper Deshanna would know what to do, thought Vera.

But Keeper Deshanna was all the way in the Free Marches. Even if Vera managed to write a letter, it wouldn't reach the Keeper for some time. Vera tried to think of what the keeper might say in such a situation.

Whenever there is a struggle, it is best to meditate. Think about what is making these dreams occur.

Vera crossed her legs and closed her eyes. She tried to empty her mind of all thoughts, but that was easier said than done.

A half hour later, Vera decided to give up and slid out of bed.

Perhaps a walk may help, she thought, as she grabbed her cloak.

"Lady Inquisitor," said one of the guards as she entered the Great Hall.

She nodded at him as she pulled her hood over her ears.

"Is everything all right?" another asked.

"Just going for a walk," she replied.

Both guards opened the enormous double doors and she relished the cool night air against her skin. Above, the full moon shone brightly.

Taking the steps two at a time, Vera descended the stairs and entered the mostly empty courtyard. She nodded at any guards she passed, then continued her way to the battlements.

Her cloak billowed in the wind, which rustled through her hair. Having lived in the Free Marches all her life, Vera had grown accustomed to cold weather.

"It's a lovely night," said a familiar voice from behind.

Vera turned to find Commander Cullen. As usual, he was in full armor, which glinted off the moonlight. Vera's heart fluttered in her chest like a million butterflies.

"I didn't think you would still be up," she said.

"I'm waiting for a report from one of our scouts," he replied. "What about you? Is everything alright?"

"Couldn't sleep," Vera said, shaking her head.

"I'm sorry," he said, as both turned toward the snow-capped mountains. "I know the feeling."

"Ever since the Temple of Sacred Ashes…" she began, but couldn't find the strength to finish.

"What happened to Divine Justinia and the Conclave was not your fault," Cullen whispered. "None of it was."

Vera sighed in frustration. "I know but-"

"But nothing," he insisted. He fully turned to her now, and Vera's heart threatened to burst from her chest. "You have done more than enough for Thedas, and the Inquisition."

"Not enough," she insisted.

"The fact that anyone survived Haven is no less than a miracle," Commander Cullen countered. "Give yourself some credit."

"I know I just-" she said, but was interrupted.

"Commander Cullen," the soldier began. "Uh, ser, our men have returned."

Cullen sighed as he pushed off the wall while maintaining eye contact with Vera.

"You should get some special hot chocolate from the kitchen," he said. "It helps."

With that, he turned and walked away. Vera'sheart tugged in her chest as she watched.

Why are we always so close, yet so far, she thought, as she walked toward the stairs.

A few minutes later, Vera stood on her own balcony. With her hands wrapped around her mug, she sipped her hot chocolate. And as usual, he was right. It was quite good.

She watched as the commander, her commander, walked across the courtyard with his scouts. When he smiled up at her, her heart fluttered in her chest once more. He nodded and waved at her, and she did the same. Once he was no longer visible, she grabbed her hot chocolate and returned to bed.


So, I know it's been a hot minute, but I'm back loyal readers! I got Dragon Age: Inquisition for Christmas and have been playing the heck out of it. As a result, I stumbled onto this pairing and the rest of history.

Thank you to my editor, The Solar Surfer. You're the best!

If you enjoyed this story, please feel free to leave a comment. Your constructive feedback is the best paycheck I could ever receive.