Title: Dragon Age Inquisition: A Mage's Quest for Restoration

Author: Amanda Rau (manda091987)

Game: Dragon Age: Inquisition

Characters/Pairing: (Characters) All from Dragon Age Inquisition (Pairing) Trevelyan/Cullen

Disclaimer: All characters, the name 'Trevelyan,' and story are the sole property of Bioware. Elizabeth is mine. Please ask for permission for the use of any added material, scenarios, or characters.

Elizabeth entered her cabin, then she took a seat and wrote some letters. The first was to her parents. She started off with business but finished with personal. Setting the parchment aside, she wrote letters to her brothers and one to a specific contact asking for them to get some information for her. After that, she opened up some business letters.

Ella,

Varric brought this to my attention this morning. I thought maybe you could look over it and figure out the best way to handle it.

Ruffles,

I need a favor. Actually, let's call it a loan since I'll pay it back. I got a letter from my editor in Kirkwall today. She tells me that 'Hard in Hightown 3: The Re-Punching' appeared in print from an Antivan printer a couple weeks ago. I'll give you a moment to contemplate the horror that is that title.

I had my contacts in the Merchants Guild look for the author a couple years back. The best they could find after spending a couple hundred gold was that "Pyrral Bhelenforth" is a pen name. I could've told them that for free. You've got contacts with the Antivan print houses; maybe you could find out more than the guild.

Varric

"Poor Varric," Elizabeth muttered.

She placed both parchments to her right, opening the next, which was also from Josephine.

Ella,

Up until we declared ourselves the Inquisition, our forces have had the benefit of the chantry's deep coffers. Now the Inquisition is forced to seek out its own sources of revenue if it is going to grow further. Trade in and out of Haven is limited at this point. But there are various opportunities to earn coin - provided the Inquisition is willing to focus its efforts on the matter. If you permit me, trading in favors with merchants and the nobility is my specialty. It could earn us a great deal if we're careful. Let me know if you would like me to pull some strings gently, of course.

-Josie

Elizabeth set that letter aside, opening up the last note.

To whom it concerns:

The Teyrnir of Highever wishes to convey our deepest sympathies on the death of Divine Justinia V. The Most Holy was incomparable in her wisdom and dedication to peace, and we had high hopes that her Conclave would succeed.

We will hold a vigil in Highever in remembrance of Justinia and cordially invite the Inquisition to attend. The Vigil will be in three weeks' time.

Sincerely,

Teyrn Fergus Cousland

Elizabeth wanted to attend, personally. However, she would get Cullen's thoughts on the situation first. Just as Elizabeth was about to pack her items, Spirit glided through the window closest to her desk. The bird set a folded parchment down in front of her human. Elizabeth smiled, stroking Spirit's chest, pulling a treat out, feeding it to her. The mage woman opened up the letter, reading its contents.

My Dearest Elizabeth,

It was so good to hear from you, child. I am pleased to know that you survived the Conclave, though I am in mourning for your brother. He was a good man. He would have done right by the mages. We will sorely need that in the days ahead. My sympathies are with you. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to assist you on your journey. After all, a teacher never forgets one of her best students.

As for your requests concerning one of your former Templars, I will have to write a few letters. I knew him when I was at Kinloch Hold. He was so young but eager to learn all that he could. The events that conspired there left him broken. If anyone could heal him and help him find purpose again, it's you. However, as well as I knew the recruit, it was not enough to know his last name. As I said, I know a few who might have that information, but it will depend on how fast they answer. Send Spirit to me in two weeks' time. I should have the answer then. If not, at least an update.

Take care of yourself, my dear. I once knew another who walked a dangerous and arduous road. That woman held tightly to those around her. I suggest you do the same. I am pleased Cullen is there. Trust him if no one else. He is a good man and will always be there when you need him.

All My Prayers and Blessings,

Wynne

"Hm." She smirked.

Elizabeth rose from the armchair, storing the seized business letters in her waist pouch. All the intimate parchments, except Wynne's, went in her journal. She snatched her sack, putting clothes and a bath linen inside, as well as some soaps and a few oils. After exiting her cabin, the young woman left the gates, then shuffled to the right. There, she noticed Cullen conversing with Leliana, two of her agents, and one of his soldiers. Elizabeth nonchalantly approached.

The two scouts and the soldier dismissed themselves when they saw the Herald.

"From the sight of Spirit and that grin on your face, I owe you coin, don't I?" Cullen sighed.

"No." She shook her head. "But, I would say I am extremely close."

"What are we talking about?" Leliana glanced from Cullen to Elizabeth.

"His last name." Elizabeth crossed her arms. "Apparently, he thinks with my station versus his that he isn't important enough for me to have knowledge of it."

"I could tell you," Leliana notified her.

"You could," Elizabeth agreed. "But, I would lose the bet."

"You can't have assistance?"

Elizabeth confirmed, "No. At least, not from people who are privy. But apparently, we know the same people." She held up the letter. "Am I sanctioned to proceed, Commander? Or does this fall under the category of assistance?"

"That depends," he replied.

"On?"

"How well the person knew me," he said slowly.

"Well, that's not fair," Elizabeth protested, wrinkling her brow before exhaling with a shake of her head.

"All right." Cullen stepped closer. "Who is betraying me?"

"Wynne."

"Wynne?!" both Leliana and Cullen said in unison.

"You knew her too?" Elizabeth asked Leliana.

She bobbed her head. "Both of us ran with the Hero."

"That must be who she meant at the end of her letter," Elizabeth muttered.

Cullen held his hand out. "May I?"

Elizabeth went to give it to him, but before he could grab it, she yanked it away, causing him to peer into her eyes, both staring intently at the other.

Elizabeth raised her left eyebrow. "You can't write her back and tell her not to give me your last name."

"Do you think I'm so scandalous?" he questioned.

"Yes," both ladies voiced at the same time.

"I am not!" he retorted.

"Shake on it." Elizabeth held her hand out. Cullen went to shake, but she pulled away. "Glove off."

"Don't be preposterous!" Cullen exclaimed.

"That means that you were going to lie." Leliana deduced.

"N-no…" Cullen tried to protest.

"You are so cute when you get caught," Elizabeth mused.

Cullen blushed at Elizabeth's words. She smirked, then motioned with her hand. He sighed, removing his glove, shaking.

"Say it," Elizabeth encouraged.

"I promise not to write to her and tell her not to tell you."

"Who?" Elizabeth inquired.

Cullen flattened his lips. "I promise not to send a letter to Wynne and tell her not to give you my last name."

"Thank you." Elizabeth leaned forward, handing him the letter. "I want it back when you're finished."

"It's your note, my lady."

Elizabeth glimpsed between him and Leliana. "I've had a pretty eventful morning. I am going to wash up, then I will be ready to gather in the War Room."

"We will plan to meet in an hour then." Leliana meandered toward the gates.

Elizabeth gazed into Cullen's eyes. She grinned, throwing in a wink for good measure, which caused the commander to blush. Elizabeth pivoted, going toward the spring bordering Haven. It was a five-minute journey from the gates of the quaint town. At the first intersection, you would branch off to the left, going past Taigen's hovel. Continuing through the second fenced doorway led to the open field and another split in the trail. Elizabeth went right, trudging onward in the vast space. She passed the logging stand where Threnn's companions were hard at work, getting the wood moved while adding more lumber to it from neighboring saplings. The passage naturally curved right to a tree line. The thick forest swallowed the road, dirt disappearing under evergreen needles and cones. The territory was dense, but not so much so that one would lose visibility. Once Elizabeth transcended the woodland, the warmth of the springs blanketed her in its embrace. She shuffled over, stripping down as she got close, and ascended into the stone-lined waters.

After scrubbing and some relaxation time, Elizabeth climbed out and dried off. She sat there meditating for a time, taking in the natural surroundings of the area. Once Elizabeth felt like she had collected and realigned herself, she got dressed and left the hot springs with Spirit gliding overhead. Back at Haven, the mage woman padded straight to the chantry. Inside, her bag went on a bench just before she entered the War Room, the act causing everyone to look at her.

"Feel better?" Leliana asked.

"Much," Elizabeth responded. "I have some letters here that I need your assistance with. First on the list is Varric. He sent Josephine a letter asking for us to aid him with a writing thief."

Leliana stepped forward, reading the letter. "If this author has evaded the Merchants Guild, the Crows might be a better choice for investigating him" she faced Josephine, "with respect."

"Your people would be my choice," Josephine replied.

"Your people, Spymaster, are who I had in mind as well," Elizabeth added.

Leliana nodded. "My people can handle this, Herald. I will contact them."

"Thank you." Elizabeth leaned from one leg to the other. "Next. Josie, I like this idea. Send letters as soon as you can. We could use every coin coming in to take care of our people."

"As you wish, my lady." She bowed.

"Cullen." Elizabeth turned to her commander. "I received this letter from Cousland."

He took it and read it, then caught her gaze. "Would you like me to send some of my men?"

"I would," she agreed. "But I ask that you write Cousland back on behalf of us both. I would also like to attend."

"Do you think that is wise?" Leliana questioned. "Though you've proven innocent to many, others still think you are guilty. Some attending are eager to take your life. It does not matter if they plan or do it at a moment's notice. Your presence leaves them a perfect time to seize the opportunity."

Elizabeth put her hand up. "I know the risk that it poses for me to go. But I'm not going to be exposed. This is for the Divine."

"You barely knew her," Cassandra replied.

Elizabeth exhaled, carefully removing a leather-bound book from the other bag she brought. Her left palm tapped against the spine in the sense of hesitance before handing it to the two women. They opened it. Inside were numerous dated letters swapped between Elizabeth and Divine Justinia, some going back as far as 12 years. Others were more recent, dating just two days before the explosion.

"You were one of her informants?" Cassandra gasped.

Elizabeth continued, "She visited the Circle in Ostwick twelve years ago. The minute she learned what I was, she pulled me aside and asked for my help."

"How did you get these letters out?" Leliana asked.

"Lucas," Elizabeth responded.

"Your Templar lover?" Cassandra inquired.

"Wait, what?" Elizabeth retorted, "No! He wasn't that. He was…" she looked at Cullen and shook her head.

"No one important," Josephine distracted them. "Regardless, being a friend of the family made him a prime candidate to assist."

"So, he's not a gilded lover?" Leliana's eyebrow piqued curiosity.

Elizabeth did her best to hide that she was upset by the question. Instead, she merely smiled. "No. Unless you three—" her orbs bounced between Cullen, Leliana, and Cassandra "—would like to start sharing life stories, ties to the Chantry, Circle, and Order, or sexual encounters…."

Josephine kept anyone from responding by speaking, "I think it would be a good idea for you to go to the memorial."

"Thank you," Elizabeth cooed. "Let me know if anything else needs my attention today?"

Josephine bowed, Elizabeth quickly exiting the space.

The Ambassador turned to them. "Here is a tidbit about Ella that you must know. She doesn't trust easily, so while she is private to most, she is opening up to you effortlessly because we are working together. Realistically, and in truth, she has no choice not to. Especially when one considers her introduction. As far as I can tell, you three haven't returned the favor. Ella isn't feeling disregarded yet, but she's on the verge. If you can't return the favor, don't poke and prod."

Josephine picked up her things and left the room.

Varric saw Elizabeth storm past with a familiar expression. He followed the young mage to her hut, catching the door before it shut, and closed it behind him, causing Elizabeth to turn.

"Varric!" She gasped.

"Did the Seeker open her big mouth again?"

For a moment, Elizabeth processed the mess the two were, then managed a laugh. "No, Varric. At least, not in the way you might think."

"Talk to me." He took a chair and moved it closer to Elizabeth's bed, where she plopped down.

Elizabeth nodded submission, then began telling Varric what happened in the War Room. Varric, of course, distracted her with some harsh words that scolded Cullen, Leliana, and Cassandra, but with entertainment. The dwarf encouraged her by saying Leliana would eventually open up if Elizabeth talked to her enough. Cullen was the world's best-kept secret, so he wished Elizabeth luck on cracking that shell. That left the Seeker; Varric told Elizabeth that he refused to comment, causing the mage to laugh even more. The dwarf then proceeded to communicate to her a few things about himself, open and honest. They must have talked for a few hours because Elizabeth looked out her window to see that the sun was beginning to set.

"I think you know almost everything about me now." Varric smiled.

"No more than Hawke, I hope." Elizabeth mirrored his expression. "He means something to you."

"He does." Varric nodded. "No one will ever know me like Nathaniel. He, after all, knows how Bianca got her name. That isn't a secret I share lightly. In fact, he's the only one who has the full story."

Elizabeth subtly nodded. "We all have at least one."

"We do," he replied.

Just then, there was a knock at the door.

"Come in," Elizabeth called.

The door opened, the Inquisition's commander stepped inside.

"Herald." Cullen bowed. "You forgot this when you left."

He held up the leather-bound book that contained the letters between her and Justinia.

"Thank you." She seized it from him, placing it next to her.

"I was also wondering if I could have a moment of your time?" Cullen moved his eyes from her to Varric, then back.

Varric faced Elizabeth. "I'll see you in about an hour for dinner."

"All right, Varric," Elizabeth responded. "Thank you for signing my first chapter." She held up Swords and Shields.

"You're welcome." Varric got out of the chair. "But, you aren't going to like it as much as my other stuff."

She squinted. "I doubt the validity of that statement."

"I look forward to hearing something different." The dwarf winked, closing the door behind him.

"Cullen. To what do I owe this pleasure?"

"Well, you made a valid point earlier." The commander scratched the back of his neck. "I would like to make you more comfortable; for there to be trust and easy communication between us." Elizabeth motioned to the chair where Varric was just moments before. Cullen sat down. "What would you like to know, Trevelyan?"

She thought for a moment, then leaned forward. "How about the basics? Where are you from?"

"I grew up in Ferelden near Honnleath. I transferred to Kirkwall shortly after the Blight," he reminisced. "This is the first I've returned in almost ten years."

"You haven't seen Ferelden in ten years?" she asked, astonished. "Are you glad to be back?"

"I was not sorry to leave at the time. I did not expect to return," Cullen confessed. "Now—between the Divine's murder and the Breach—I've arrived to find nothing but chaos. As you now know, I was stationed at Ferelden's Circle Tower. The Circle had troubles of its own during the Blight. I… remained there during that time."

"I have never been to Kirkwall," she admitted. "What is it like?"

"While I was there, Qunari occupied and then attacked the city, the Viscount's murder caused political unrest… relations between mages and Templars fell apart, an apostate blew up the chantry, the Knight-Commander went mad. Other than that, it was fine."

"I sense some snark, Commander."

For the first time since being there, he chuckled. "A little bit, perhaps."

"What happened between Kirkwall's mages and Templars?"

He leaned forward in the seat. "You were at the Conclave. You must have heard people speak of it?"

She nodded slowly. "Yes. But you were there."

Cullen sighed.

"If you don't want to talk about it—"

"No, it isn't that." Cullen shifted in his seat. "There was tension between mages and Templars long before I arrived. Eventually, it reached a breaking point. There was fighting in the streets. Abominations began killing both sides. It was a nightmare."

"What happened then?" Elizabeth pressed.

"The Templars should have restored order, but red lyrium had driven Knight-Commander Meredith mad. She threatened to kill Kirkwall's Champion and turned on her own men. I'm not sure how far she would have gone. Too far."

"So, you opposed her?" Elizabeth questioned.

"I stood with the Champion against her in the end," he revealed. "But, I should have seen through Meredith sooner."

"Varric's from Kirkwall," Elizabeth noted. "Did you two know each other before the Inquisition?"

"I knew he was friends with Kirkwall's Champion, but little else," Cullen replied. "We've spoken more since I joined the Inquisition. Largely at Varric's insistence. As you've heard him say, I spend too much time with a grave expression on my face, and it's bad for my health."

Elizabeth hiccuped a laugh. "You know, he's not entirely wrong. But that surly look does it… for me, at least."

Cullen's cheeks turned pink. "Thank you, I think."

"What was Honnleath like?" Elizabeth wondered.

"It was a small village," Cullen recalled. "But I loved that. I was never one for large groups of people or being in big towns."

"How did you survive Kirkwall then?" she questioned.

"I stayed in the Circle most of the time. I only went out now and then."

"Only now and then? What would you go out for? Drinks with the recruits at a tavern?"

"Mostly," he stated.

"What do you remember most about home?"

"About the town? Or home life?" he asked for clarification.

"Both." Elizabeth shrugged.

"Well, as far as the town, I remember this giant stone statue mostly," he responded. "Apparently, a mage was responsible for putting it there, but I am unsure if it was true or something my parents told me so that I would stop playing on it."

"Perhaps both."

"You might be right." He laughed. "I miss the smell of my mother's baking the most. We weren't poor, but we weren't rich either. My mother would splurge on ingredients for sweet treats after Sunday Chantry mass. I always remember the smell."

"That's beautiful." Elizabeth grinned. "What sorts of things did you like to do as a boy?"

"I was a boy."

"So, you were a terror." She raised her left eyebrow in amusement.

"Not entirely," he responded with a pink hue.

"Oh, Cullen." She softly giggled.

"I was well-behaved, for the most part."

"I believe you. You are gentle-natured."

"I got that from my mother." Cullen thought about her.

"Who do you look most like?" Elizabeth inquired.

He leaned back in the chair, getting comfortable. "I was the only one among my siblings born in the spitting image of my father. All my other siblings had a few of his features but looked mostly like my mother."

"Then he was a handsome man," Elizabeth complimented. "I bet your mother was just as beautiful."

Cullen nodded. "I thought so, at least. What about you?"

"I am my father. We could be twins. However, the eyes and hair color are my own."

"They don't stem from your mother?"

"Yes and no," she answered. "They are entirely my own. It happens with Bellators. Another out there could have the same eye color, but we tend to have abnormal eyes and hair tones. It's the mana; for Bellators, ours is a different chemical make-up entirely. Since most mages alter or enhance appearances, we don't really stand out like one might suspect."

"I think your eyes are captivating," Cullen swooned but caught himself. He turned red, peering down. "I-I mean, they're beautiful—nice."

Elizabeth chuckled. "Relax, Commander. I take it as a compliment. So, thank you."

"You're welcome." He bowed his head.

The dinner bell distracted them. Cullen stood, carefully shoving the chair near her desk, Elizabeth following him to the threshold of her shanty. Cullen gently gripped her arm, holding her back so he could open it for her. Elizabeth grinned at the gesture as she stepped through the doorway. They went up the steps, Cullen pulling Wynne's letter out, handing it to Elizabeth.

"Your thoughts?"

"She knows the right people to ask." Cullen exhaled.

"I don't need the coin, Cullen." Elizabeth placed her hand on his forearm.

He cursed his wrist guard for being in the way of her warm touch. "I honor my wagers, my lady."

"I should have made the terms more interesting then." She winked.

He paused for a moment. "Maker's breath!"

"I pay to hear it."

Elizabeth and Cullen entered the tavern where all their comrades were patiently waiting. Cullen's men loudly cheered as they raised their beer mugs when he traipsed through the entry. The commander glanced at Elizabeth, the woman putting a hand on his shoulder.

"Thank you, Cullen."

"You're welcome" he smirked, "Trevelyan."

Elizabeth's breath hitched as Cullen walked away. She went to the table where Leliana, Josephine, Solas, Cassandra, and Varric were. They sat talking and drinking for hours. Elizabeth made sure to pace herself since she was planning to meet Adan tomorrow to brew potions. She didn't want to be hungover. After about two hours of conversing, Leliana and Josephine went to their quarters, leaving just four. Varric pulled out cards, and the small group spent the next few hours playing Wicked Grace. Afterward, Varric escorted Elizabeth back to her hut.

Once inside, Elizabeth went through her nightly routine, sitting down, writing in her journal. After a few paragraphs, Spirit flew in with a parchment in her beak. Elizabeth smiled at her, then took it and opened it up.

Trevelyan,

Thank you for letting me in and talking with me earlier this evening. You could have turned me away. I do enjoy our conversations, and I look forward to having more. Sleep well.

Cullen

Elizabeth looked at Spirit when the bird squawked. "You think you know everything, huh?"

The bird yapped again, this time adding a flap to her wings. Elizabeth shook her head with a slight giggle, then wrote Cullen back and sent it with Spirit.

Cullen was nestled up, reading in his personal space, when Spirit perched on the bedpost. He smiled at the gorgeous bird's presence, exchanging the letter with a treat. After running his finger along her chest, he opened the parchment, gazing over its contents.

(Insert Commander's last name),

Tell me, Commander, how is one supposed to sleep peacefully when their eyes are so captivating?

He felt his cheeks burn, then cursed himself for being so honest. He looked back down.

I wouldn't have turned you away, Cullen. I misbehaved in the chantry today. I just feel like I am still being guarded. Everyone needs to know everything about me but won't return the favor. It's difficult to swallow, on top of being in a new place in our current predicament. But I guess I can only blame myself. It's not as if I have to answer every question. Anyhow, this has turned into more of a confessional than a thank you. Which I should be saying. You didn't have to come by and open up, but you did, even if it was simple. So, thank you for enjoying our talks as much as I do. Sleep well, Cullen. May only good things find you in the Fade.

Trevelyan

Cullen hiccuped a laugh at Elizabeth's signature. His timely response glided over to Elizabeth's hut in Spirit's beak. He added another log to the fire, blew out his candles, then slipped into bed.

Elizabeth awoke the following day to Spirit gently nipping at her nose. She flew to the desk, picking up the parchment. Elizabeth seized and opened it. As Elizabeth read over the contents, Spirit cuddled up to the woman's chest.

Trevelyan,

You misbehaving is one of the easiest things I have ever encountered. I have always felt that any organization has no use for people who can't think for themselves. We're not consistently going to agree; even now, there are issues that we cannot unite on. But whatever happens, it is for a reason, and I still support you. As a Templar, I sacrificed and compromised much to have structure, but in the end, an outline of your intentions is the best you can hope for. Life follows it, or it doesn't. We learn to go from there. As far as being away from home, I understand the feeling. When I first got to Kirkwall, it was hard to adjust. Especially when issues came up with the mages or my people. I felt as if they viewed me as some know-it-all outsider that was there to usurp. Eventually, things evened themselves out, and we were able to all get along for the most part. You'll find your way with people in Haven. I'm here if you need to vent; Maker knows you'll need someone to talk to. Although, I understand if you already have the option with Josephine.

Cullen

Cullen's sweetness stroked Elizabeth's soul, the act causing her to grin. His offering of a safe place was reassuring and encouraging. She got out of bed, stretching with satisfied moans. Feet staggered to the dresser, where Elizabeth pulled out a green tunic with silver embellishments, tan pants, and dark brown boots. Plopping down at her desk, she brushed through her hair, contemplating what to say in response to Cullen and Wynne. She handed her family's parchments to Spirit so she could deliver them. Elizabeth finished grooming, then pulled back the sides, braiding them into a partial crown.

Spirit flew into the window an hour later. Elizabeth sent her out with Wynne's letter, then had a messenger take Cullen's. She grabbed her bathing pouch, placed a few things in it, exiting the hut. Elizabeth left Haven's gates, searching for a more private place to meditate as the sun made its final ascension over the mountain.

"Good morning, Cassandra."

"How did you know it was me?"

Elizabeth glimpsed over her shoulder. "I've adjusted to the sound of your footsteps. They are light for a warrior, steady."

"I am unsure whether that is a compliment."

"It was." Cassandra approached Elizabeth. She climbed the rock, kneeling to the mage's right. Elizabeth peeked out of her right eyelid, then chuckled at the woman, turning to face her fully. "Have you ever meditated?"

Cassandra shrugged. "A long time ago."

"It would explain why you are so tense." Elizabeth pulled the soft fabric out of her bag, folded it up, and set it across from her. "Sit."

"I am not sure there is time—"

"Cassandra!" Elizabeth scolded.

"So be it." She sighed.

Elizabeth gestured. "Cross your legs, now rest your arms, palms to your knees. There you go, now close your eyes."

"This is foolish—"

"Cassandra Pentaghast!"

The Seeker gave her a disgusted grunt then closed her eyes. "I'm ready."

"Take slow and deep breaths. Feel open and collected. Listen to the earth around you, the birds chirping, the slight breeze and snow as it falls. Feel yourself get in touch with who you are at your inmost part."

Cassandra breathed normally as she relaxed. Elizabeth grinned, then went back to her own meditating for a while longer. She took a cleansing breath and faced Cassandra, who opened her eyes. Elizabeth smiled at her.

"Yes?" the dark-haired woman wondered.

"Feel better?" Elizabeth asked.

"Yes," she paused. "Thank you."

Elizabeth packed her bathing items, the two going back toward Haven. While conversing, they reached the gate where Varric met them. He smiled and nodded.

"Good morning, Dimples."

"Varric." She mirrored his expression. "How are you today?"

"Don't you worry about me." He clapped her lower back.

They all walked to the tavern. On the way, a messenger stopped Elizabeth and handed her a paper. She looked down at it, noticing his handwriting on the front. Elizabeth saw Varric examining her with amusement.

"What?"

"From someone special?" He bounced his eyebrows. "A certain, tall, curly, blonde, ex-templar?"

"It's nothing like that!" Elizabeth retorted.

"Well, the high-pitched, quick rebuttal tells me you're lying."

"It's your mind, dwarf. You are entitled to imagine whatever you like." She tried to hide her smile.

When they stepped into the Tavern, Leliana came up to them. "We need to meet before you indulge in breakfast, Herald."

"Okay." She nodded. "I'll be right back, Varric."

"I'll take care of you," he responded.

Cassandra, Leliana, and Elizabeth padded toward the chantry. On her way, Elizabeth opened up Cullen's letter and started reading it. They entered the War Room a few seconds later; the advisors were catching up on a few things, but Elizabeth suddenly laughed out loud, causing everyone to divert their attention. She looked up, doing a double-take, then quickly folded the note, putting it in her pocket.

"What's going on, Leliana?"

Leliana handed her a parchment. "Scout Harding has reported on the situation in the Hinterlands and Redcliffe. The town and surrounding areas are worse than we initially thought."

Elizabeth read the letter aloud as she paced. "'We avoided the fighting as best we could - it's every bit as bad as we'd feared. The apostates are mad, attacking anything that moves, and the Templars here aren't following anyone's orders any longer. We located Mother Giselle and are trying to protect her, but she refuses to leave the refugees until we've ensured their safety. That will be hard to do without troops to push the apostates and the Templars out of the area. Commander Cullen asked me to inquire about Master Dennet, a retired Horse Master of Redcliffe, who lives in the area. We tried to contact him about obtaining better horses for the Inquisition, but we've been unable to get through the fighting. -Lead Scout Harding.' Hm." Elizabeth looked from the parchment, then to Cassandra. "What do you say, Seeker?"

"I am following your lead, Herald." She bowed.

Elizabeth thought for a moment, then nodded. "Let's leave tomorrow night."

"As you wish," Cassandra replied. "I will start getting things in order."

Elizabeth grabbed her arm. "Make sure to eat something."

"I will." The Seeker left the room. Elizabeth faced Leliana. "Anything else, sweetheart?"

"I received this letter this morning." Leliana gave Elizabeth the parchment.

Sister Leliana,

How I rejoiced to see the colors of the Inquisition run the rabble out from my ancestral fields! Straight into the woods of my neighbor, Bann Traft, no less! As if they were guided by the hand of the Maker Himself!

I could not be better pleased. As promised, a reward for your excellent help in my time of lamentation.

Andraste keep you in her heart,

Lord Kildarn

The Spymaster handed her a pouch. "Your cut."

"But" Elizabeth looked from her to Josephine, "I don't want it."

"You need coin, Herald." Leliana smiled, holding it out.

Elizabeth's keen ears heard a man outside the door in the main room of the chantry conversing with some of the Chantry staff.

"Please, I need to be able to feed and house my family. The Divine wouldn't turn us away."

Elizabeth smiled, turning to the pouch, grabbing it, exiting the War Room. She carefully approached the man standing with his wife and daughter, who couldn't be more than six to seven.

"I couldn't help but overhear—"

"Herald!" The man and woman dipped their heads.

"It's all right," she replied. "Here, take this."

The man looked at the coin purse, then took it and opened it. "We can't—"

She closed his hand around it. "You can."

Elizabeth's advisors followed her out of the War Room, standing behind her as she motioned one of Cullen's men to take the small family to the camp and settle them in. The little girl put her arms in the air, opening and closing her hands fast, multiple times.

"Mary!" The woman put the girl's hands down.

Elizabeth motioned to the mother with a chuckle. "She's all right." She knelt down, and the little girl wrapped her arms around Elizabeth's neck then kissed her cheek. "Oh, thank you, sweetheart! Do you like flowers?"

The little girl put her hands together. "I do!"

"Of course you do; what princess doesn't love flowers?"

"I'm not a princess," the little girl answered softly.

"Nonsense!" Elizabeth wrinkled her nose. "Every little girl is a princess, and you more so. Look at those pretty, big brown eyes." Elizabeth held her hands out, and inside them, a circle of jasmines appeared laced together to create a crown. The little girl gasped, causing everyone to lightly laugh. "Little princesses have crowns."

After a moment, the little girl took Elizabeth's left hand and traced over the mark. "I don't think you're scary, Lady Herald."

"No?"

The little girl shook her head. "I think you are blessed. Only you can save us. No one else is strong like you."

Elizabeth smiled at her. "Thank you. Now run along, Princess Mary. Mommy and Daddy are going to need the help of their little majesty."

The little girl giggled and ran to her parents, who thanked Elizabeth as they left the chantry. Elizabeth turned to her smiling advisors. She cleared her throat.

"Yes?"

"There was 128 gold in that pouch." Leliana crossed her arms as she gazed at the mage woman with amusement.

Elizabeth shrugged. "They're better off."

"You need money too." Josephine met Elizabeth's eyes.

"No," Elizabeth scoffed. "I assume when this is all over, I will have no use for it. Whether it's to the Circle, prison, or the noose. My armor is made from materials I gather, and I came with clothes. If I need more, I know how to sew. Just take my cost of living out of my cut, then give the rest to Cullen. His kids need armor and weapons. He can make better use of it." Elizabeth grabbed her abdomen. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I am going to go eat."

Elizabeth left the Chantry, Cullen turning to Josephine. "In the future, after you subtract her cost of living, give me what's left. I will take it to Varric and have him keep her finances in order. Regardless of what she might think, she is going to need it at some point."

"As you wish, Commander."

After Elizabeth finished her breakfast and spent some time conversing with Solas and Varric, she went to Adan's to assist him in making potions. They spoke about their personal histories and went over their time in the Circle. They were so busy making draughts that Flissa had lunch delivered. Adan and Elizabeth continued to share laughs about both mages and Templars over their lunch. It kept up the rest of the afternoon and well into the evening hours.

After hours of potion-making, Adan and Elizabeth finished all the necessary draughts. Adan told Elizabeth that he would bag them and have them delivered to her cabin before leaving tomorrow. When Elizabeth exited Adan's hut, she saw Solas looking toward the Chantry.

"Are you all right, Solas?"

He turned to her and smiled. "I am. You?"

"I am." She nodded. "Will you be ready to leave tomorrow?"

"Yes," he confirmed.

"Good."

Elizabeth caressed his arm with her thumb. She descended the steps, leaving Haven, where she settled on a rock that overlooked the lake. She studied Cullen's letter in private.

Trevelyan,

Your story reminded me of an incident that happened when I was at Kinloch Hold. It was the Celebration of Nightmare's, and the Circle was having its annual Feast of Fools. Our kitchen staff was overwhelmed. As a recruit, my fellow Templars and I loved to prank each other. However, this time, we decided to trick Knight-Commander Greagoir and some of his most trusted staff. We covered some onions in caramel instead of apples. He was good-humored about it, but some of his top Lieutenants weren't. It made for an exciting few days of drills afterward, to say the least.

I'm pleased to see that you had entertainment while you were in the Circle and you got to see family frequently. I know there were times that I was often bored, and it helped me to have outlets. I would love to hear more stories when you have time. Despite some of my history with mages, I have seen plenty of legitimately funny things, especially when they learn to cast spells or work on new draughts. I have so many stories to tell. Feel free to ask me anything you'd like, Trevelyan. I will always be honest with you.

Cullen

Elizabeth snickered, responding to his stories as the quill touched the parchment. Just as she was signing her name, the dinner bell chimed. The young woman noticed the sun sinking below the top of the mountain ridge. Agile fingers folded Cullen's note, closed the ink container, and cleaned off the plume, the supplies disappearing into her pouch. Elizabeth cantered toward the opening of Haven, where she noticed Cullen. Once through the threshold, Varric called to her, causing the commander to turn around as she ascended the steps.

"Varric!" She looked from the dwarf to the Commander. "You."

Cullen chuckled when he caught her sassy expression. "Two weeks is a long time to have no nickname."

"She could use 'Curly.'" Varric snickered.

Elizabeth shook her head. "No, he brought this on himself; he needs something that makes him adorably blush every time I say it."

"You're becoming increasingly difficult." Cullen crossed his arms, trying not to smile.

Elizabeth leaned forward, placing the letter on Cullen's chest, his hand instinctively covering hers as she went to her tiptoes, whispering in his ear. Varric tried to listen as best as he could but nothing. Whatever it was, it didn't matter after seeing Cullen blush deep enough to make any red fruit envious. The dwarf held his breath. Elizabeth backed up, their faces mere inches apart, so close they could feel the other's breath. She smirked, leaving the Inquisition's commander frozen in place as she trotted to the tavern.

"What did you say?" Varric inquired.

"It's between him and me, Varric." Elizabeth grinned, looking back at the dwarf.

"Secrets?" Varric gasped. "That won't help the teasing."

"Neither will knowing the nickname I gave him," she deduced.

"That's all I need," the dwarf stated.

Elizabeth shook her head as Varric and Cullen caught up and entered the pub. Cullen grabbed the door behind her as she stepped inside, padding to the table where everyone was waiting. They had fun telling stories and enjoying their ale. However, Leliana, Josephine, and Cullen dismissed themselves since they had to wake up early. The others stayed to play games.

Cullen entered his hut, rekindling the fire in the fireplace and the little structure filled with warmth, then removed his outer coat, belt, and armor, leaving him in his tunic and breeches. He took a seat at his desk, opening Elizabeth's letter.

Cullen,

That story made me laugh, as you heard when I entered the War Room. Our Templars often played pranks on some of their recruits and officers too. Besides, there was the hazing the mages did to the newcomers. I remember the first night I was there, my bunkmates put my hand in the water, thinking I would wet the bed. My brothers often tried to do that to me, so I trained myself to wake up feeling my hands or feet getting submerged. The joke was on them when I woke up and reversed that prank. Maker did they feel embarrassed. Of course, they found out that I was afraid of cockroaches, so they spell-cast some hissing ones into my pack the next day in the middle of class. Maker, Cullen, I thought I was going to hyperventilate. But I was decent about it. I just paid them back.

I remember spells going wrong or even my potion turning my alchemy partner into a grasshopper. That was interesting. My fellow mages would frequently remind me of my first week at the Circle. I was sick with a cold, so as you can imagine, my spells were sporadic. I set my teacher's hair on fire and froze her cat. It took them two days to defrost Sir Richard. That cat would probably still hate me if he were alive. On one of my practice Harrowings, I had the Templars and the First-Enchanter in on a trick. Some amphibious creatures leaped out of the 'Fade' as I came out. Our Knight-Commander wasn't partial to them, so he was a little spooked… to say it kindly.

Despite how the Circle makes most feel, I only ever had one bad experience. The rest of my life in the Circle was memorable. I have lots of stories I could tell! I would love to share them with you. Which reminds me, thank you. I do need someone to vent to now and then, and who better than someone who knows and has experienced for himself all the things I have? We both lived in the Circle, and we both saw the negatives and positives of the mages and Templar Order. Even though you are no longer a Templar, you're like home for me; that makes me feel safe. It's why my connection to you has been so quick and easy. So... Thank you, Cullen.

Trevelyan

Elizabeth's letter was an emotional journey for Cullen. Nimble fingers folded the parchment, pulling out a blank one. He wanted to have a more genuine aura since she discussed vulnerable topics with him. The truth of Wynne's response was spot on; Cullen was learning to have confidence in Elizabeth and her abilities. There was a vow to change himself and his outlook when joining the Inquisition. After filling half a page, he paused, leaving it. He wanted to sleep on the ink tattooed paper's contents.

Elizabeth crawled into bed as the sky began to light up. She was in the middle of petting Spirit when she passed out from exhaustion, waking some hours later. It looked to be about mid-afternoon. There was a knock on Elizabeth's door, and Cassandra entered moments after.

"Cassandra?" Elizabeth sat up, making sure to cover her most vital parts.

"I have the worst headache," she grumbled, laying down on the bed. "Remind me to kill the dwarf for giving me his homemade brew."

Elizabeth was shocked by Cassandra's proximity but managed a laugh. "You were the one to take the challenge, dear Seeker."

"He said the same thing." Cassandra squinted at Elizabeth. "Remind me to kill you too."

"Aww." Elizabeth pouted with a sniffle. "Don't do that; then there would be no one to heal you or keep you sane."

Cassandra gave a disgusted groan. "You're ruthless."

"Only to you, Lady Seeker," Elizabeth pat Cassandra's back then healed her. "How is your equipment looking?"

"I am ready, Herald."

"Armor too?"

Cassandra nodded. "Yes. Solas is good as well. I did not check on the fanciful short stack."

"I think you two just need to get a room together and get it over with."

"I regret my decision to come here." Cassandra shook her head.

Elizabeth had gotten dressed during their conversation and put together all her things to head to the spring. After that, they both left Elizabeth's cabin, Cassandra making her way out of the gate and Elizabeth motioning to Varric.

"Bring your lovely girl with you."

Varric grabbed Bianca and headed down the steps, meeting up with Elizabeth. "Sleep well?"

"I could have gotten more," she confessed.

"Need some coffee, eh?"

"I do." She slowly exhaled.

As Elizabeth and Varric flounced through the gates, she glanced over to see Cullen instructing two soldiers. She admired how beautiful his form was, both his battle and physical state.

"Like him?"

Elizabeth breathed. "I already told you I do. He's a good friend."

"Not what I meant, Dimples."

Elizabeth shook her head, tucking her hair behind her ear as she bit her lip, then whispered, "I do."

"It is pretty sickly sweet the way you get him to blush."

"I do it on purpose," she revealed. "Cullen makes it so easy; it's adorable, the way he gets all muddled."

"I do find myself drawn to the connection between you two."

"Are we becoming an icon for a Varrytale?"

"Maybe," he replied before chuckling. "We'll see how all this plays out. So, why Harritt's?"

"I came up with some schematics for Bianca." Elizabeth adjusted her shoulder strap. "Harritt put them together, and I'm anxious to see how they turned out and if they'll work."

They glided through, entering Harritt's smithy. Their presence immediately got his attention, causing him to set down the current project he was working on. The blacksmith padded over, wiping his brow and hands.

"Good afternoon, Herald." He bowed. "I trust you slept well?"

"Good enough, I guess." She sighed. "I feel like a dead woman walking."

"Coffee?" He pointed to the tinpot on the crate.

Elizabeth seized Harritt's face, abruptly kissing his cheek. The blacksmith couldn't stop the chuckle from escaping his lips. Elizabeth poured the hot liquid into a nearby cup as Harritt borrowed Bianca. To her frame, he added arms, a grip, and a small device for aiming. Varric, of course, watched the man carefully, but not as intensely as Elizabeth thought he might. Varric seemed to trust the smith with Bianca. Elizabeth and the dwarf conversed about the upcoming trip as they observed Harritt's work. Two more cups of coffee later, the smith finished and handed Bianca to Varric.

"You are ready to play, Master Dwarf." Harritt pointed to the sack on the left of Elizabeth's feet.

She looked down. "Is that…?"

"Yes."

"All right. Let's go, Varric." Elizabeth called him as she grabbed the burlap bag.

The two left Harritt's, taking the path past Taigen's cottage. However, as she was passing Cullen, she winked. Moments later, they entered the open area behind the cabin, set aside for archers to practice.

"So, what's with the sack?"

Elizabeth smiled at Varric, then dropped the brown bag, causing apples to roll out. She magically lifted them into the air so that he could shoot them.

"Give her a go, Varric."

The dwarf bobbed his head, firing, fruit tumbling to the ground. Elizabeth raised more up, this time, telling him to use his abilities as well.

"This is amazing, Dimples," he said, approaching her. "How did you do this?"

"When you were showing her to me, I started getting ideas. Without actually holding her and firing her, it was difficult, but it seems like I went in the right direction."

"What does everything do?" Varric wondered.

Elizabeth pointed to the upgrades on Bianca. "The arms add force to Bianca's shot as well as a tighter pull making them fly at a faster rate, penetrating armor and adding damage to any of your skills. The butt here allows for a harder push so that the hit is more critical, and the grip adds more stability. Bianca now has more bite, not that she didn't before."

"Well, if she ever needs an upgrade, you've earned your privilege of playing with her." The dwarf winked.

"Noted." She snickered. "Well, I am off to wash up. Maker knows when I will have the chance again."

Elizabeth picked up all the fruits with the help of Varric, throwing them out further into the woods so wild animals wouldn't invade the archery field. Once the grounds were clean, Varric trekked back to Haven and Elizabeth to the spring. She thought she was there all alone until Josephine popped up out of the water, scaring Elizabeth.

"Maker, Josie!" Elizabeth put her hand over her heart.

Josephine laughed. "Payback for all the times you got me."

"Fair." Elizabeth chuckled. "You mind having a partner."

"By all means." Josephine motioned for Ella to join. "There's plenty of room for both of us."

Elizabeth peeled off her clothes, climbing in. The girls washed up, then leaned back on some of the warm stones outlining the pool.

"Sorry that I have to miss our date, Josie."

"Nonsense." Josephine situated herself into a more comfortable position. "You are a woman in high demand."

"Which is not exactly a good thing."

The Antivan woman snickered. "So, it would seem."

"We'll make it happen, Josie."

"We will," she agreed. "Now, if you'll excuse me. I have a few things to do before dinner."

Josephine climbed out, quickly dried off, then dressed in some warm winter wear, leaving the area soon after. Elizabeth remained a while longer until she heard someone clearing their throat. She glimpsed back to see familiar crystal brown eyes staring at her. Elizabeth overlapped her arms on the rocks, setting her chin on them.

"Commander."

"Trevelyan."

She gave him a devilish stare. "Would you like a turn?"

"Whenever you're done."

"I am done now," she admitted. "I've just been enjoying the warm water. It's going to be a while before I can again."

Cullen bobbed his head. "The Hinterlands is a big stretch of land; I am sure there are options. Not as warm, perhaps."

"May I get out?"

Cullen's eyes widened as he blushed. "I'm sorry, my lady."

"It's all right, Cullen. Can you hand me my linen?"

He picked it up, bringing it toward her, turning so he couldn't see anything of vital importance. Elizabeth climbed out, wrapping her linen around her. As she stepped down, she slipped, causing Cullen to turn and instinctively catch her. However, the problem was in the solution. Their faces were inches apart; Elizabeth's right arm was over Cullen's shoulder and neck, her left hand on the side of his face and head. For a moment, they remained frozen, gazing at each other.

"Cullen," she whispered as her eyes closed.

"What?"

"Your hand."

Cullen noticed his right hand wrapped around Elizabeth's slender figure. He turned his attention to the left, realizing it was on her leg, fingers gripping her butt. This time Cullen was cursing to himself for not wearing his gloves. Elizabeth felt perfect in his embrace.

"Sorry." He flushed.

"It's fine." Elizabeth breathed. "But uh, it's… stirring."

"Right." He let her go.

Elizabeth stood straight, then gently tapped his chest. "Thank you, Cullen."

He chuckled. "You're welcome, my clumsy lady."

Elizabeth playfully nudged him, then nervously tucked her hair behind her ear as she smiled, slightly biting her bottom lip. She padded over to her belongings then wrapped her cloak around her, leaving him alone.

Cullen quickly stripped. The cold air helped relax him, but only slightly. He found himself liking everything about Elizabeth. Her eyes, her voice, her body, her hair, her laugh, her intelligence, her way of thinking about things… her. Her giggle was coveted more than anything. It was contagious and not overly obnoxious. The young woman's cheeks rosily glistened, her dimples more prominent. Feeling her molded against his form, the smell wisps of cucumber and an herby green tea from soaps and oils. His desire for her was strangely familiar to him. Cullen entered the spring with a grumble. Elizabeth's flirting made it evident she wanted physical contact with him, but why couldn't he reciprocate? Cullen took a deep breath, slowly releasing the thoughts as he leaned his head back against the stone siding.

Elizabeth came back to Haven. As she stepped through the gate, Varric got her attention.

"Why the big grin, Dimples?"

"Pay you no mind, evil dwarf."

Varric laughed. "Would it have anything to do with our commander making his way over to the springs?"

"I don't know what you are talking about." She tried not to smile as she went toward her hut.

There were still a few hours before leaving, so Elizabeth got dressed then began packing her things. She also made sure she had everything she needed for Spirit. After Elizabeth finished, she set her bag on the end of her bed, sitting at the desk, writing Cullen another letter, even though he hadn't written her back yet.

Cullen arrived back at Haven, the dinner bell ringing. He examined the saddled horses out front, packed and ready to leave. The commander shuffled through the gates to his hut, where he quickly placed his things inside. Just as Cullen was about to open his door, jacket in hand, Varric called out Elizabeth's nickname. Cullen passed through the threshold to see Elizabeth beside Varric at the bottom of the steps. Cassandra was with them but halted her advance when she noticed the commander.

"Commander." She bowed her head.

"Cassandra."

Cassandra and Cullen proceeded toward the pub making small talk about the soldiers. The two entered the tavern shortly after Varric and Elizabeth. Tonight, the whole team sat together at the same table since half of them were leaving. It would be a while before they could converse together like this again. The group ate and laughed over stories till one of the scouts came in and motioned that it was almost time. Elizabeth left the tavern arm-in-arm with Josephine, everyone else trailing behind.

Elizabeth was on the other side of her horse, conversing and laughing with Josie when Cullen converged. Josephine noticed him and turned back to Elizabeth.

"Please be safe, Ella." She sighed. "You're still in danger."

"I'll be fine, Josie."

The two hugged, then Josephine went over toward Varric. Elizabeth peered into Cullen's eyes, an amused expression on her face.

"Why are you staring at me like that, Trevelyan?"

She pulled out her letter. "I got a bit impatient."

He chuckled, then took out his as well. "My apologies. I wanted to write back, but I had a few questions of my own."

"Such is the contents of my letter." She smiled as they exchanged parchments. "Feels like there are a few pages here, Commander."

He blushed. "I had more than just a few questions."

"I love long letters. Thank you."

"I look forward to Spirit coming back with a response then." Cullen smirked.

"Likewise."

"We're ready, Herald," Cassandra said, stepping over to Elizabeth.

Elizabeth climbed up on her horse and situated her left stirrup, fixing the right, but Cullen was already on it. She nodded her thanks.

"Take care of yourself, Cullen."

"Be safe, Trevelyan."

The group trotted off into the darkness.