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 or characters.
"The Herald of Andraste!" A dwarf woman came closer to Elizabeth. "I've heard the stories. Everyone has. We know what you did at the Breach. Everyone's a little nervous around mages right now, but you'll get no back talk here. That's a promise. Inquisition Scout Harding, at your service. I— all of us here— we'll do whatever we can to help."
"Harding, huh?" Varric asked from behind Elizabeth. "Ever been to Kirkwall's Hightown?"
"I can't say I have." Harding shrugged. "Why?"
"You'd be Harding in…" he paused. "Never mind."
Cassandra shook her head eliciting a disgusted noise.
Elizabeth chuckled, looking back at Harding. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance."
"We should get to business." Harding motioned her over to the side. "The situation's pretty dire. We came to secure horses from Redcliffe's old Horsemaster. I grew up here, and people always said that Dennet's herds were the strongest and fastest on this side of the Frostbacks. But with the mage-templar fighting getting worse, we couldn't get to Dennet. Maker only knows if he's even still alive!"
Elizabeth nodded in recognition. "Leliana gave me the message. Any reports on the Chantry mother?"
"Mother Giselle's at the crossroads helping refugees and the wounded. Our latest reports say that the war's spread there, too. Corporal Vale and our men are doing what they can to help protect the people, but they won't be able to hold out very long. You best get going."
Harding walked away, and Elizabeth motioned for her team to follow her.
The Hinterlands-
My Lord Arl Teagan,
I retired to the Hinterlands for peace and quiet away from the politics, and because the wide open spaces were perfect to let my horses run. Instead, the war between the mages and the Templars has turned your beautiful hills into a series of burning battlefields. The farmers who live in the Hinterlands are good folk. Many of them left Redcliffe village because they couldn't bear to be there anymore, not after the Blight and the walking dead left so many bad memories. Now we've got apostates running around setting fire to anyone who looks at them sideways, and Templars looting houses and cutting down those who protest as mage sympathizers. My wife Elaina sent off our field hands to stay with her family in the east, but there are a lot of poor people here with nowhere to go. We get more refugees every day: this village attacked by mad mages or that farmstead burned to the ground by Templars who can't tell a hoe from a staff.
I suppose you're stretched thin, but anything you can do to lessen the burden of these poor folk would be much appreciated. I'll do as I can, and if your men need better mounts, say the word.
Best of luck to you, My Lord. Remember not to let Duchess puff out her gut when you saddle her.
Yours in service,
Dennet
-A letter from Redcliffe's former horsemaster to Arl Teagan of Redcliffe (undelivered)
Dear Cullen,
Drakonis (September) 6, 9:41 Dragon
I know you haven't written me back, but you told me that whenever I wanted to ask you questions, I was free to do so. I feel as if our letters will be written in awkward tones. Such inquiries should be discussed in person. Even a thought out process benevolently drafted can seem mundane or even frantically thrown together. If we had more time together, these are things we would effortlessly converse about. But I don't want our kinship to lose momentum. I'd rather write bumbling words and graceless messages than have complete silence between us for months at a time. I simply want to get to know you better. I know Josephine intimately well, Cassandra spends much of her time with me, and I suppose no one truly knows Leliana or ever will. That leaves you, Commander. (Because I haven't asked enough already, have I?) Also, and more selfishly, it gives me something to read. A little bit of something personal. Answer at your leisure.
1) Do you like to read? If so, what's your favorite book?
2) What is something that makes you laugh the most?
3) If you could eat one meal, every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
4) Have you ever had a nickname (not including mine or Varric's)? If so, what was it?
5) What are some of your hobbies?
6) What are some of your pet peeves?
7) What's your favorite holiday?
8) Have you ever had a secret admirer?
9) Who was your first crush?
10) (And lastly) Who were your liaisons? And do you still have them?
Those last three… I think it's only fair.
Stay safe, Mr. Smith,
Trevelyan
Dear Trevelyan,
Drakonis (September) 5, 9:41 Dragon
I have been sitting here for some time trying to think of what I might say. I did like your story about your first day/night in the Circle. Mages in Ferelden and Kirkwall often did that to each other as well. Some got carried away, bullies trying to intimidate newcomers. I have to say; yours was right on that line. Trying to make you wet the bed? A little crude. I do have to admit that the bug bit was funny. They may make noise, but they are harmless, Trevelyan. Just kill it with the bottom of your boot.
You turned your potions partner into a grasshopper? You have to tell me this story. I am very anxious to know exactly what happened. I've seen my fair share of mages sick, and the outcome has been rather entertaining. However, I would have liked to have been there to see yours unfold. I do admit, though, that the issue with the Knight-Commander is surprising. It is interesting to see that you got away with that, or can I assume that you did not?
Here is where I have had to sit and think about the most vulnerable parts of your letter. I'm not always good with words, but I want to get this right. I have had few friends in my life. I had some good ones when I was in Honnleath. Then, one good one in Ferelden and none in Kirkwall, at least until our Circle merged with Starkhaven's. I was promoted so fast in Kirkwall, that people thought I was Meredith's puppet, her pet. Perhaps to a degree, I was. It wasn't until the merge that I made friends with Rylen and a few others, though I am closest to Rylen. He's now one of my Captains in the Inquisition, but he's out in the field most of the time, dealing with our supply chains. I also enjoy Cassandra's company, but we've both been busy as of late. She seems impersonal, but she has good stories, and she is easy to talk to. But she is merely just a friend. Which brings me to you: I feel the same way you do. Not many here know what either of us dealt with during our time in the Circle, and though we were there for different reasons, it seems that for the most part, we both saw the negatives and positives of Circle life. I am glad I have someone to share it with. I rather enjoy our connection and hope that we can build a friendship around it.
I pray that those words are right and they make you feel more comfortable with what's between us. As far as any questions I have, I'm not good at getting to know people, especially through letters. It either happens or it doesn't. I regretfully had Varric help me with this. I don't think I will ever hear the end of it.
1. What was your favorite thing to study at the Circle?
2. You've had five brothers, so I have to ask: what's the most unusual thing they've ever made you eat?
3. Who was your favorite teacher in school or most admired professor in the Circle?
4. What are three things you think the most about each day? Have they changed since joining the Inquisition?
5. Out of everyone in your family, who knows you the best?
Have a safe trip, Trevelyan. I look forward to your reply.
Cullen
Trevelyan,
Cloudreach (October) 7, 9:41 Dragon
I'm glad that you have questions. It is quite entertaining to tell someone about me as I am now, and not me as the Templar I was. Though, I suspect you have those types of questions as well, given your natural curiosity. I wish I would have made these queries, as they are better than the ones Varric gave me.
1. I do like to read. I wouldn't say as much as you appear to, but I think it's a lack of time. My favorite work is 'The Legend of Calenhad.' I know, such a boyish tale to love. But it has action, romance, horror, sadness, and hope. It's a good story. I recommend it if you have not read it yet. What's your favorite book?
2. Honestly, there hasn't been much as of late that has made me laugh. I don't say that to be negative, though I am sure it sounds like it. My siblings and my parents always made me laugh. After the incident in Ferelden, I was a bit more serious. A chuckle here or there when a prank was pulled. Here lately, you make me laugh the most. Your stories make for quite the entertainment, Trevelyan. What is something that makes you laugh most?
3. One meal? That 's hard. Perhaps oatmeal. It sounds strange, but there are so many ways you can eat it without it getting too terribly bland. Sweet, savory… it doesn't matter. If you could eat one meal every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
4. I have had many nicknames. I don't know if I can list them all, but I can give you a few. My middle name is Stanton, so my brother would call me Stan, mostly to irritate me. I detest it greatly. My older sister just calls me Cull. My younger sister struggled with speech in her earlier years of life, so it took her a while to accurately pronounce my name. She called me bruv until she learned how. She still calls me that, but only in private. That's it, other than the ordinary I guess. I know you have nicknames, so I should just go ahead and ask what they all are.
5. Hobbies? As if it wasn't obvious by the sword on my hip, Trevelyan. What are some of your hobbies?
6. Pet peeves... Perhaps women who think they are adorable enough to ask the last three questions at the end of this list. Your pet peeves?
7. My favorite holiday is Merrymas. It was always my favorite time of the year. What is your favorite holiday?
8. I have had an admirer… still don't know to this day who it was, though I have a few guesses. Have you ever had one?
9. My first crush was a girl in my school when I was just a boy. She had long red, wavy hair and bright green eyes. I never had the courage to talk to her. Did you have a first crush? If so, who?
10. I can't believe you asked me this. But you're right; it is fair. And as long as I don't have to see that amused grin on your face it will be easier to answer. My first experience was with another Templar at Kinloch Hold. We did have somewhat of a relationship, until things soured. When I made it to Kirkwall and got promoted, there was barely any time for such activities. There were two women in town that I saw occasionally. It's funny, I have more time now than I ever did as a Templar, but since leaving Kirkwall, there has been a lack of stress relieving endeavors. Do you still engage with your liaisons?
Maker, I feel like I need to submerge myself in the lake now. I look forward to your responses, my Lady.
Cullen
Cullen,
Cloudreach (October) 10, 9:41 Dragon
I apologize for the late response to both letters. The unrest here is overwhelming, but I will get to that. The beauty of being a bit behind is that having both of them in my hands means I can respond and condense them into one. So, let me begin with your first letter:
I am glad to know that you felt the same as I. It was a crude joke. But I was teased a lot as a child. Please, don't ask why, it's completely humiliating. Our Circle had its fair share of bullies, but they always got what was coming to them, whether by another mage, a Templar, or one of the Enchanters straightening them out. The same happened with this particular situation. They got in trouble with our Grand Enchanter, which is why I found bugs in my nap sack. And it is not funny by the way, Commander, not in the slightest. Cockroaches can outlive anything! They scurry, they hiss, they fly! Yuck! I shudder at the thought.
As for my partner, where to begin... I used to mix my potions when I was supposed to be following along with my instructor. I was a bit rebellious I guess, but I am highly intelligent. I don't say that to brag, I say that to tell you that once I learn something, it stays with me. So whereas others have to repeat it a few times, I only did once. While the other students in my class were spending a week on the elfroot potion, I had moved on to concocting my own potions. Most of which were transfiguration draughts. Once I had it, or at least thought I did, I pushed it over to my partner who didn't sleep well the night before. I told her it was a rejuvenation potion. She took it and turned into a grasshopper. It wasn't what I was aiming for, but the entire class was laughing as she hopped around. After about half an hour, and all the commotion attracting other nearby classes to the doorways, she was finally returned to her usual self. I was pulled out of the class by my ear and taken to Grand Enchanter Lydia's office. She laughed and even my partner was amused asking me how I did it, but my instructor didn't find it so amusing. I had a demerit added to my record. By this point, I had five. I worked off three that weekend by helping Tranquil clean the entire library and reorganize books without the aid of magic. It made for a dull Celebration of Nightmare's. I couldn't attend the Feast of Fools or get into costume with my friends. I would like to say that it taught me a lesson, but that would be a lie.
The last part of your letter means so much to me, Cullen, it does. I am glad I have someone to call a friend, someone who is willing to be there for me when I need an ear, and words of wisdom. You've already proved to be a good man, so thank you. As far as your questions, these are all good ones and I am excited to answer them!
1. My favorite thing to study at the Circle. Well, as you know, I majored in Alchemy and transfiguration, but I loved history. Anything in history. Whether it was Circle history, Templar Order history, Chantry history, you name the history I probably got my fingers on the book, if I could. I love to learn tales of old and I love to read, what better? I have yet to read much on Qunari history. I would give anything to get my hands on just one of their story books. When you were in school or training, what was your favorite thing to study?
2. The most unusual thing my brothers made me eat… I laughed at this question because you can't imagine the things we dared each other to eat. You heard right, 'each other.' I made them eat disgusting things too. Bugs, animal feed, grass, dirt, but I have to say the most unusual thing was this pie from an Orlesian Dignitary that came to visit. It was a cheese pie with seasoned crickets on top. Again, I had eaten bugs before, but this was just… odd. Apparently, it's a delicacy, though. The cheese aspect was weirder than the bugs, honestly. I mean, cheese pie? What is it with them and cheese? Is there anything unusual you have eaten, or made any of your siblings eat?
3. My favorite instructor was probably our Grand Enchanter. I was her first choice to take over when it was time, but after Timothy, I didn't feel like I deserved that position. I recommended my brother, and he took over. But I still met with Lydia three times a week. The stories she'd tell... I loved listening to her talk. She taught me things that no one else could. I admired her. Did you have a favorite teacher or instructor?
4. The things I think about most during the day. That's a pretty dark place, Commander. But you asked. Sex, studies, and my daily duties. I would say they have changed. Now, I mostly think about how I am going to do this, this whole 'mark on my hand that mends the sky from the Fade' thing. What will it take? Can I do it before the whole world pays any price? I worry that I can't fix the Breach. But I have decent people behind me, and it helps. What sorts of things do you think about most during the day? Have they changed since joining the Inquisition?
5. Aiden, my oldest brother, probably knows me the most. We were instantly connected when I was born. There were times (I'm told) that I wasn't satiated till he was swaddling me. His touch is gentle and reassuring. Some days it is all I need. He knows more about me than I know about myself and I tell him everything. Well, not everything. There are certain things he just doesn't need the details to, but he still knows quite a bit. Out of everyone in your family, who knows you the most?
6. As for the questions, I asked you: First, I love to read so picking a favorite story is a bit tricky. I like Varric's tales. They have brought me great entertainment. But I do have to say that I also love all of Genitivi's works. But again, he focuses a lot on history. 'In Pursuit of Knowledge: The Travels of a Chantry Scholar' has by far been one of my favorites. His tales are so raw and pure.
7. Something that makes me laugh. Well, I love to laugh, just naturally a happy person. But I do enjoy a good smartass comment. I think it's why I get along with Varric so well. He's so witty.
8. Favorite food. Commander, I think you just won my heart! Oatmeal is the best! You just can't go wrong.
9. Each one of the people in my family has a special nickname for me. One that they and only they can use. I have a strong bond to each individual in my family. But to anyone outside, it can get confusing and even a bit overwhelming with all the nicknames. Elizabeth leaves so many options. My father calls me Izzy Girl. My mother calls me Charlie (my middle name is Charlotte). Aiden calls me Tizzy, Brain calls me Ebbie. Cellen calls me Lizzy. David calls me Liesl. And Emery called me Els or ElsBells. Then you've heard Josie call me Ella. And now, Varric has seen fit to call me Dimples.
10. My hobbies. I love to read. Go on walks. Write poetry and literature. I like to slip away with my violin and play. I love to sit and draw or paint. Make new elixirs. I love the outdoors, so anything that gets me out. I love to study and learn new things.
11. Pet Peeves. Ha-ha, Commander. But yes, I do think I am adorable, and that answer doesn't count! I could just as easily respond that my pet peeve is dashing, curly, blonde commanders who answer questions with sarcasm.
12. Favorite holiday is Merrymas, as well.
13. I have had a few secret admirers. Some left their identity a secret and others did not. Three of the ones who revealed themselves were in the Circle.
14. My first crush. I think it was Marcus. He was my tutor's son. Of course, I was only 10 and the love was no more than that of a puppy cherishing its human owner.
15. Sexual Liaisons. There was only Timothy and Lucas. Timothy was… insufficient. There was no emotion, and he was disconnected. It wasn't how I imagined a relationship would be. If I can be truthful, given what I am, nothing with us was going to be successful and I knew that. But it was fun and forbidden. To be honest, I don't know about Lucas and I. We have not seen each other in some time. But I would have to say, probably? I am not currently tied to anyone, and I am stressed. But for us, it was only a stress release. It's easy for men to keep emotions out of it. Not so much so for women, but I am a mage. I find it quite easy. We were friends before that aspect unfolded. It just made sense. But to anyone who doesn't know us or the situation, might suspect something more than what it is. I did hope at one time it would, but I knew better.
I hope I answered them all as best and as in depth as I could. This time I legitimately apologize if I made you blush, but you asked.
Trevelyan
Trevelyan,
Cloudreach (October) 15, 9:41 Dragon
I also have been late to respond. We had some new recruits come in from all around Thedas. I had to process about 100 men and their families. We may have to make use of the field behind the cabin. I do apologize if it comes to that, I know you like to meditate on the rocks out there. I will do what I can, however.
Can I just say that I find you intoxicating? You've seen and been through so much, and I barely know anything about you. Your answers and stories made for a good read. I was thoroughly entertained with your potions story as well. I am sure you were the source of amusement in the Ostwick Circle. Mages need it when stuck in one place, and unable to leave. They need something to keep them occupied. It appears that you know how to deliver. Your instructor sounds about average. Most in Ferelden and Kirkwall were the same, though the tension in Kirkwall caused that I believe. It was not always so. I do remember a few spell casts going wrong, but I don't think I ever saw a mage turn another into anything with a potion.
I wish I had more to write in this letter, but things have either been busy with finding places for people to sleep, or downright dull and unentertaining. I've also run out of questions, so if you can think of any more, please ask. How are things in The Hinterlands? Did you find the mother without difficulty?
Hope you are safe,
Cullen
Cullen,
Cloudreach (October) 18, 9:41 Dragon
Things are worse than we initially feared here in the Hinterlands. I know I brought it up in my last letter, but was not able to present all the information, until now. The area spans over hundreds of miles, and we have barely gotten through the area near Redcliffe, a village outside Redcliffe, and a few camps to the South. It isn't safe here. I plan on coming back to Haven in a week's time. The mother needs Haven's walls around her, and we need more supplies. I also need to talk to Adan about a few potions. The wildlife is going crazy, possibly due to the Rifts, but I am unsure. Solas and I should do some research. But for the moment we are all well. I need to finish up the area before we come back, so there might be more info to pass along later. I am headed further North to look for a cult that is holed up in the mountains.
Corporal Vale and his men have had it hard here, but I managed to get them some supplies and even hunted some rams for them. We need to procure some supply chains. Talk to Leliana about that when you can, please. There is a fast travel stone in the remote town outside Redcliffe that is open to Haven. I managed to get it working. Hopefully, a continuous shipment of minor supplies can get them on their feet. I know we have little to spare, but bring Josephine in to send a letter to my parents. They can ship some stuff to Haven.
More questions…. You want more questions? I mean, I have a few, but they are deep. I have tried to wait, but maybe we are to that point. Again, the distance makes it difficult. I do have questions about Templar stuff, but I am saving them. I'd rather talk in person about Templar and mage situations, as it is a bit sensitive, and I don't want anything misconstrued. Otherwise, these are it:
1) If you could, what is one thing you would change about yourself?
2) Would you consider yourself introverted or extroverted?
3) Are you more religious or spiritual?
4) Is what you're doing now, something you wanted to do when you were a little boy?
5) Who is the one person you could talk to about anything?
6) Have you ever lost someone close to you?
7) If you're in a bad mood, do you prefer to be left alone or have someone cheer you up?
8) Are you confrontational?
9) Do you keep a journal?
10) What's the one thing people always misunderstand about you?
Okay, so maybe those aren't that deep. Cullen, before I finish this letter, I want to say: thank you for all that you do. I know that being the Commander of the forces isn't exactly a stressless or easy job, but you are doing great.
Trevelyan
Trevelyan,
Cloudreach (October)25, 9:41 Dragon
We have been getting things set up for trade to the region. A few supplies have been sent through with some of my men as well as some of Leliana's scouts. We received a report the day before yesterday that things were going smoothly. Your parents also sent some supplies, and they will be taken tomorrow with the next shipment. It was a good idea.
I think that from now on, I will let you ask the question first. You seem to be proficient at getting to know people. I guess I tend to let things run their course. If I am around someone long enough, and I feel like they are genuine, I believe it just sort of happens. But I do have to remember I am starting a friendship with Thedas' most curious occupant, and yes, I was laughing as I wrote that. It's difficult to learn things about a new friend when they are not around to share like one might on any average day.
1) If I could change one thing about myself, it would be my distrust toward mages. Especially now. Animosity isn't needed. We want to build alliances. What is one thing about yourself that you'd change if you could?
2) I've always been introverted. Which I suppose isn't a good quality for a Commander, is it? I've always been content on my own. But I do like to socialize with those I am close to. Are you extroverted or introverted?
3) Now that is a profound question. For the longest time, I thought I was a spiritual man. But stepping back and looking at my life has revealed me to be more of a religious person than anything else. I do hope to find my spiritual self once again. Which one would you identify as, spiritual or religious?
4) Yes, I am doing what I have always wanted to do. I have always wanted to help people. I was built for it. I did think I was bound to Order for the remainder of my life, but I have enjoyed leading the Inquisition's forces, and I am grateful to Cassandra for the opportunity. Is what you are doing now, something you always wanted to do when you were a little girl?
5) This is a hard question for me to answer. For the longest time, it was my father. But recently Rylen has been that person. Although, I must say that you are slowly working your way up on that list, Trevelyan. Who is the one person you can talk to about anything?
6) Yes, I've lost a few people close to me. Have you? Aside from Emery, of course.
7) It depends on what upsets me. But mostly, a combination of both. My older sister has this presence about her. Every time I was upset, she would sit with me in silence. I like my space when I am angry, but I do like someone sitting with me quietly. Though, she is the only one I have found that makes me comfortable. Which of those two options do you prefer when you are in a bad mood?
8) I didn't use to be confrontational. I was laidback and easily angered. Things changed many years ago when I experienced a traumatic event. It changed me, and not for the better. I have sought help in recent years and have gotten much better. I wouldn't say this aspect has changed all that much, however. I don't mind my men coming to me with questions on an order, but it's all about the approach. I don't argue simply to argue. Are you confrontational?
9) I do keep a journal, though I have not written in it much since joining the Inquisition. Do you keep one?
10) I honestly don't know the answer to this question. Ask Varric. He seems to know that information better than others. What is one thing people always misunderstand about you?
I imagined the relationship ones would be first on the list. If you feel the need to ask, I will answer, just do it in letter form. I am not sure I could suffer through your devilish grin.
Be safe on your Travels,
Cullen
