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.

"I don't see anyone." Cassandra observed the area outside Haven's gates.

Elizabeth yawned. "Cullen is probably doing morning exercises with his men, and everyone else is most likely still sleeping. The sun is only now lighting up the sky."

Francis, the Inquisition's current stablehand, came out from the stables, helped Varric off the horse, then went around to assist Cassandra and Mother Giselle. They all met at the front.

"I am barely holding on, Dimples."

"Go ahead and go to your tent, Varric. I will see you later."

"Don't worry about helping me, Herald." Francis consoled her. "You've had a long journey. I'll have one of Cullen's men help me get the horses settled."

"All right, thank you." She turned to her elf friend. "You are free to go as well, Solas. Get some rest."

"Herald." He bowed then went toward the gates.

"Okay, Mother." Elizabeth glanced at Giselle. "Let's get you settled. Would you like to address everyone first? Or get a hot meal?"

"A council would be preferable," she responded. "I am exhausted. It would be best to make use of resources now."

"So be it."

Cassandra and Elizabeth escorted Mother Giselle into Haven, all three going to the Chantry. A few people woke and got ready to start their day, but everyone was still asleep. Leliana and Josephine didn't usually arrive at the war table until the sun was halfway over the mountain. Cassandra, Elizabeth, and Giselle stepped into the War Room and went over a few things with the mother as she wrote letters and sent them off with one of Leliana's ravens. Giselle decided to turn in since it would be a while before the ladies and Cullen made it to the War Room. Both Cassandra and Elizabeth started reading through the mail that had piled up in their absence. Elizabeth barely remembered the words she read as they bled together. She went to her knees and laid forward on the table, seeing black.

A loud, sudden noise woke both of them up. Immediately Elizabeth gasped and started chanting with a tired but alert voice.

"Many are those who wander in sin, despairing that they are lost forever-"

"Herald!" Cassandra snickered with grogginess.

Elizabeth looked up to see Leliana, Josephine, and Cullen standing in front of them, with rather amused faces. Elizabeth's expression read confusion as she peered around the room.

"All those times of being in trouble are burned in, no?" Josephine chuckled.

"One time!" Elizabeth struggled. "Sister Winifred held resentment over that damn fire-breathing ferret! It wasn't even my fault!"

"Fire breathing… ferret?" Cassandra processed.

Elizabeth exhaled. "It's a long story."

"Just how many times did you have to recite transfigurations at your time during the Circle?" Leliana asked with a snarky grin.

Elizabeth hesitated but finally answered, "Three hundred and forty-two."

Everyone laughed.

"You have use of the portal, no?" Josephine looked at Elizabeth, slightly confused. "Why are you so tired?"

"We couldn't use the portal," Cassandra stated.

"Why not?" Leliana wondered.

Elizabeth and Cassandra looked at each other. Cassandra nodded, and Elizabeth turned to them. "We were being followed. Men sent to deal with Mother Giselle, or me, or possibly both of us. We're both fine, but it kept us on the run for three days straight. We're tired, hungry, thirsty, and wait, did I say tired?"

Cassandra huffed an exhausted snicker. "You did, but after being up for almost three days, I would say two doesn't even begin to cover it."

"Oh" Elizabeth raised her finger, "and tired." She shrugged at Cassandra. "One more, for good measure."

"Can you give us five minutes?" Leliana inquired. "We can do this later, if not."

Elizabeth waved her hands. "No, we can manage."

"Should we invoke our agreement?" Cassandra asked tiredly.

"Yes."

They stood facing each other and counted to three. Cassandra slapped the right side of Elizabeth's face, and Elizabeth hit the right side of Cassandra's face, leaning over the table afterward. Cassandra hiccuped a laugh, shaking her head. Elizabeth slammed her fist into the surface, letting out a breath.

"Okay." She exhaled again. "I just might be able to bathe now."

Cassandra disagreed, "The water would relax me too much."

"You might be right. I might fall asleep."

"Half in, half out."

Elizabeth started giggling. "Can you imagine how ridiculous that sight would be if someone caught that?"

Cassandra smiled for a moment as she thought about it and started laughing. "You would look rather silly."

Both women started laughing hard enough for tears to stroll. Just then, Elizabeth gave a light snort then hid her face.

"That was the most adorable sound I have ever heard." Leliana grinned.

"No, it wasn't!" Elizabeth shook her head, trying to hide amusement. "The situation!" She dried her eyes then handed the three people across from her a parchment. "This is an announcement the mother gave us. Apparently, these radicals are meeting in the town square to protest the Inquisition publicly, and we assume, to get people to back that protest and the reasons for having it."

"The mother sent a bird this morning to get more information," Cassandra added. "We should hear back before the end of the day."

"Sounds good." Leliana nodded her head.

"She will speak with us all tonight on what she finds out." Elizabeth yawned. "From there, we can decide what we want to do. But most likely, I am going to need to go there, personally."

"I agree," Josephine said.

"Then get some rest, Herald." Leliana smiled. "You deserve it."

"Perhaps, but I am only going to sleep until lunch." Elizabeth sighed. "I don't need my schedule hindered, especially if I'm going to go to Orlais. We don't know what we'll encounter, and I need to be sharp."

"Agreed. I may accompany you then if you don't mind." Cassandra stepped closer.

"I'm fine with that." Elizabeth bowed her head.

"Just beware, Seeker," Josephine warned her. "This one likes to cuddle."

"She'll be fine as long as she doesn't hit me." Elizabeth smirked.

"Keep it up, and I will on purpose, just to leave you hanging on the edge."

"The edge is my favorite part." Elizabeth winked.

Cassandra gently shook her head, leading everyone out. Before Cullen could follow, Elizabeth gripped his arm, the action causing him to linger. When it was just the two of them, Elizabeth rested her written letter against Cullen's chest. His large hand covered it, Elizabeth smiling as she turned on her heels to leave. Cullen wasn't too far behind, observing her hindquarters. He lingered a bit before he realized his ill-mannered reaction and corrected himself.

Cassandra and Elizabeth went to sleep quickly and slumbered so deep that it felt as if they had barely rested on their cushions before Spirit's squawking sounded. It startled them both, but they almost fell back asleep when Spirit cackled again as the lunch bell rang.

"All right, all right," Elizabeth said as she crawled off the bed.

The woman stumbled outdoors, voluntarily face-planting into a snow hill. Elizabeth drew a handful of crystal powder when lucid enough, padding into the hut, hurling it at Cassandra. The sudden blast caused the Seeker to jolt awake.

"Thank you." She panted. "I needed that."

"Me too," Elizabeth confessed. "I stuck my face in a pile of it outside the door. I need a bath, but I don't see how that will help."

"We both need one, but if I don't eat, I might just bury Varric's body where nothing but birds and small rodents can pick away at his chest hair."

"Get a room!" Elizabeth laughed.

"Enough." Cassandra glared. "You have too much fun at our expense."

"Then stop leaving it open." Elizabeth shrugged as she finished up with the last of her things.

Cassandra quirked the edge of her lips. "Maybe I like it, Herald."

Elizabeth seductively growled, making them both chuckle. They left the hut, and Cassandra went toward the tavern, and Elizabeth left the gates, hiking the path to the spring. She enjoyed the sunlight and snow as she took her stroll. She was rummaging through her sack when she bumped into someone. Elizabeth slowly looked to her right side and saw nothing but lightly tanned and flawless skin over taut muscles. She carefully traced up the person's body with her eyes, starting from the barely covered pelvis, then the abs, working toward the chest.

"Maker…" She breathed then swallowed hard at the tree sap-colored eyes looming over her.

There he was, standing in all his fit glory, Cullen Stanton, Commander of the Inquisition's forces. He was long, toned, taut, fit; any word close to muscular she could think of came to mind. Sturdy as a stone wall, but soft where it counted. Elizabeth knew she was lingering, but she couldn't help it. Her eyes traveled up to his face, barely noticing what his crystal orbs read. The woman was entranced by the water, slowly caressing his perfect body, the way it clung to every curve and muscular ripple. His hair, the curls hanging on his forehead, making it indisputable that he styled it. The dampness whispered a darker shade and predominant spirals. He almost looked like an entirely different person. Elizabeth's breaths were quickening, as was her heart rate. She could feel her temperature rising.

"Trevelyan," his soft voice came.

"You're perfect." She huffed near-whisper, then cleared her throat and shook her head as she quickly turned around. "My apologies, Commander," she emphasized his rank. "I didn't realize anyone else was here. I should have paid more attention to my surroundings."

"It's all right, my lady."

"Not really," she responded, nearly choking. "I invaded your privacy."

He laughed. "I was covered with a linen."

"That doesn't help." She giggled then scolded herself by shaking her head and face-palming. "I meant to say—that doesn't mean—I shouldn't behave poorly."

Cullen listened to Elizabeth fumble with words. Seeing her babble was adorable. Usually, she was the one who muddled him up. Cullen gathered all his belongings, cantering up behind her. He froze, idly standing close enough for their bodies to exchange warmth. Her frame noticeably tensed at his proximity. He leaned over her shoulder, putting his lips close to her ear. Cullen saw her eyelids shutter closed; she swallowed hard, her hand twitching, craving to come to the side of his head but restraining.

"I'm done. The spring is all yours."

Cullen's fully dressed figure went past Elizabeth, not glancing back. She loitered, attempting to gasp for air. After that encounter, she needed a cold submersion, not a warm one. Elizabeth grumbled before disrobing and jumping into the spring.

Cullen made it back to Haven and went to his hut. He fixed his hair, trimmed his beard, put his armor on, then sat down at his desk and opened up Elizabeth's letter.

Cullen,

Cloudreach (October) 27, 9:41 Dragon

I laughed at the last part of your letter, Commander. It seems like my devilish grin is already in your head, regardless of me physically giving it to you or not. My work here is done. But fair is fair, so I will answer them in return.

1) If I could change anything about myself… Most likely, I would change the way I walk. I know, it's the oddest thing to want to change, especially when it could be anything. I naturally walk with a sway in my hips, which draws way too much attention unnecessarily. More seriously, I would like to change how easily I trust. I read people well, but some are better at hiding who they are deeper than I initially see.

2) I'm very much introverted. Being the Herald doesn't help. It's just an unnecessary amount of attention that I don't like having. I prefer keeping to myself. Mostly because I have learned the hard way that people are harsh and mean. Too many people judge a book by its cover. Few ever see past the fact that I am a mage.

3) Am I more spiritual or religious? Well, given what you know about me, I think you could answer this question. Spiritual.

4) I wanted to be a princess. What little girl doesn't? (Okay, so I blushed a little bit writing that.) But I wanted to help my brother when he took my father's place. I tried to help him with anything he'd let me. Family is essential to me, and I have a pretty darn good family.

5) I answered who I am closest to by accident, not knowing I would ask this particular question. But the answer is Aiden. I could say anything to him, and you'd never get it out of him. My father is a good man; I don't want that misconstrued. But Aiden has shown me what a man is supposed to be like to his mother, father, sister, brothers, friends, co-workers, wife, and children. He is by no means perfect, but he has a more significant piece of my heart. I was privileged that the Maker saw fit to put him in my life. But oddly enough, you are working your way up on my list too.

6) I have lost a few loved ones. You know about Emery. Not a day goes by that I don't feel like a piece of me is missing. Varric will tell me something funny and I'll look for his smile, or I'll want to tell him something sarcastic I thought of, and I can never find him. I hope wherever he is, he's putting in some encouraging words for me. Maker knows I need it. I also lost my sister-in-law. Her name was Rachel. She was married to my brother David, and she died young, only 22, and my brother was 23 at the time. They had only been married for two years when she lost her life, giving it to their son. It was a hard time in my life because I was granted leave from the Circle to be her midwife. I couldn't save her. It was difficult.

7) I am just like you when it comes to being upset or angry. Though I do like to be cheered up, there is a moment of silence needed for me to decompress.

8) I'm not a person who likes controversy. Despite being a mage, I don't see aggression as a way to settle anything. Anger begets nothing but more anger and resentment. I tend to giggle in slightly uncomfortable, intense situations. People take it as disrespect, but it's not. It's just me trying to adjust.

9) I do keep a journal. Everything I have ever gone through is written down! I like to revisit things. Not to bring back the past or wallow, but to reflect. I want to learn from it so that future situations are easier to get through.

10) People misunderstand me because I am not an awful person just because of what I am. I may be dangerous, but I'm not intentionally a monster. Hopefully, one day, people can see that.

Since you broke the ice, the minx in me has to lunge at this opportunity!

1) What is a relationship deal-breaker for you?

2) Would you ever take back someone who cheated?

3) Are you friends with any of the girls you've been together with?

4) Would you relocate for love?

5) When was your first kiss?

6) Are you a romantic?

7) Do you believe in love at first sight?

8) Would you say that you've met the right one and they got away, or do you think they're still out there?

These are just a few of the more appropriate questions. The others are going to have to come after some growth, I think. But like I said, feel free to answer or don't. I'm just trying to flirt a little, and also make you blush. It has become one of my favorite activities.

Sincerely,

Trevelyan

Cullen plopped down and responded, leaving his space some time later. When he arrived at the tavern, everyone was at a table carrying on their own little conversations. Elizabeth was there, staring off into the distance, her hand holding the side of her face as her middle finger traced her lips, slowly stirring the contents of her bowl. Though, she seemed to be quietly listening to the discussions going on around her. Cullen got his sandwich from Flissa, carrying it to the table. The only spot available was across from Elizabeth, which he was thankful for. If he could be honest, he was taking pleasure in her discombobulated state.

Cullen sat down in front of Elizabeth, the new presence slowly pulling her from deep thought to reality. Her beautifully alluring eyes connected with his, and immediately she gave her nervous smile, which flustered him most, especially when she bit her bottom lip. He was envious that it wasn't him that was nibbling it. The more little things Cullen learned, the more he wanted to discover the predominant things that made her who she was. Cullen was Elizabeth's friend, but he'd be lying to himself if he didn't confess a desire for intimacy. But unlike the other women Cullen encountered, there was no need to rush. He gazed back at Elizabeth as she blushed, biting her lip.

He slid the letter he wrote over to her with a smirk. "Your response, my lady."

"Thank you," she whispered back with a smile.

Leliana came in. "The mother is ready to meet with us. Bring your lunches because we might be in there a while."

Flissa padded over, setting a plate down next to Elizabeth with a wink.

"Thank you, sweetheart."

Flissa's hand went to the bowl. "Are you finished, Herald?"

"I am."

Cassandra, Cullen, Elizabeth, and Josephine all grabbed their things and left the tavern, making their way toward the Chantry. They entered the War Room, taking their places. Elizabeth handed Mother Giselle a smaller plate with a sandwich on it. The woman stared at it, then to Elizabeth.

"What is this, my child?"

Elizabeth shrugged. "Your favorite."

"Specific." The mother seized the plate with a smile. "How did you know?"

"It's a gift." Elizabeth gestured to the group around them. "I'm sure you know everyone, but I was brought up never to assume." Elizabeth started to her left. "Lady Leliana, in decent company." The mother bobbed her head. Elizabeth continued, "Commander Cullen and Ambassador Josephine Montilyet. Everyone, this is Mother Gisselle." They nodded greetings, Elizabeth held her hand out. "What have you found, Mother?"

"I see that Lady Elizabeth gave you the parchment." She motioned to the pamphlet in front of the advisors.

"Are they doing this?" Josephine asked. "Can they do this?"

"Times are changing, Lady Montilyet," the mother assured. "We are without a Divine. We have lost our voices. We will do anything to speak out against what we think would shame Justinia's name."

"The Inquisition was her decision." Leliana stepped forward. "She wanted this if the Conclave failed."

"But few around her knew that fact," the mother responded. "You and the Seeker were closest to her. It is hard for you to see the world that does not exist to you." Gisselle peered to her left. "You?"

Elizabeth paused from filtering through her parchments, glancing up. "What about me, Mother?"

"You didn't know of the Inquisition's inception," the mother replied. "How do you feel about it?"

"I can't say anything here that might help."

The mother inched closer. "But you are no regular mage, are you not?"

"How do you know what the Herald is?" Josephine's tone was protective.

Elizabeth crossed her arms, observing the woman. "She's Ellorian."

"What is that?" Cassandra asked.

"The Ellorian Order began as a secret organization amidst the Chantry. They were sworn to keep the Bellators, and their League, a secret," Elizabeth answered. "Positions of power within the Chantry allowed them to harbor our secrets."

"Why?" Cassandra wondered.

"The Chantry isn't really 'The Chantry.'" Elizabeth shook her head, turning back at Giselle. "Is this why you wanted to see me? Is that why you asked for me specifically?"

The mother nodded. "Yes. As much as people try to deny it, this is a religious war, more than anything else. You, of all people, know that. Perhaps Andraste does not answer you because of this." She lifted up Elizabeth's hand. "This is the answer we're all searching for; that you're seeking. No one but a Bellator can fix this division. The Hero responded to the Blight, and the Champion had only the strength and resources to do what no one else could. He pushed this situation to its purification, though his part in this tale is not yet finished."

"The Chantry isn't the Chantry?" Cassandra asked, a hint of worry in her voice.

"It's too much to explore, and I don't know everything. Not till I Ascend, at least." Elizabeth looked at her.

"Perhaps you should tell them what you know." Mother Giselle gazed at Elizabeth, a sincere expression.

Josephine set her board on the table. "I think they are ready for it, Ella. They are following you now."

Elizabeth shook her head. "You cannot ask this of me. Telling them who, what I am, is one thing, but to rattle their faith… There would only be more questions. Questions I can't possibly answer!"

"You must," the mother replied.

"This isn't a conversion!" Elizabeth glanced between Josephine and the mother.

"Elizabeth," the mother's soothing voice encouraged her.

Elizabeth took a deep breath, her index finger and thumb going to the bridge of her nose. She slowly exhaled, bringing her head up a few moments later. "The Chantry denies Bellators because of our magic and so-called 'blasphemous' claims to lineage. But we didn't inherently have the desire or want to do wrong. After the denunciation from the 'Andrastians,' now known collectively as the Chantry, we became disgraced. This led other mages to rebel against the Andrastians. Bellators founded the Circles as a way to teach mages in a safe and comfortable environment away from those trying to kill them. I use the term 'Circle' loosely. During this time, they were much different and were known as 'The Spire', which came from a word in Bellator language spiro meaning to breathe. There we were safe to exist. During rebellions all but lost in history, due to the Chantry not wanting to look bad, they seized control away from the Bellators, thus confining mages. The Spires became the Circle; the prisons they are now. Andrastians took our home, our ability to live in harmony, and turned it into a death sentence. They took the Order, men and women our League trained, and turned them against us. The Chantry destroyed their purpose and distorted their faith until there was nothing but animosity. The truth of the Maker and even aspects of Andraste are now tainted to fit their narrative. The Maker is not how the Chantry portrays Him. Who is He? What is He? I don't know. Not yet."

"What are you willing to tell me about the League of Immortals and the order at the time?" Cullen wondered.

"It is diametrically opposed to yours. According to yours, Maferath and Hessarian captured Andraste and burned her at the stake. While this is correct, the reasons for the arrest and what transpired next have been altered or completely omitted. Suffice it to say, they apprehended all twelve Bellators who were guarding Andraste. Hessarian and Maferath's soldiers bound them to the stake and stacked oiled branches around them to keep the fire burning fiercely. Andraste pleaded to the Maker to save them at that moment, and He answered her pleas. The soldiers lit torches on the Bellators, but no matter how hard they tried, the tinder refused to light. Andraste sacrificed her life for her children." Her eyes narrowed on Cullen as her hands went to the table, her demeanor almost challenging in nature. "The men and women who willingly cut us down from the stakes before Hessarian's soldiers killed us, became the League of Immortals. They led us to a secure location on the opposite side of Thedas. It was there; the Maker Transcended them. They were tasked with serving and protecting the Bellators with their lives. They were connected to us through love and unity. We were to be like the Maker and his bride, Andraste, in that we were to love one another as they did. The League once commanded the Templar's Guild, an organization nothing like the disease it has become. The Bellators and League brought peace and harmony to the Guild and Spire. They had no reservations about executing deserving mages, and the mages did not oppose the Templars when they were discovered. Our connection enabled an insight that was the exact opposite of chaos. As a result, fewer mages revolted and fewer Templars became hostile. In a thousand years, there have been eight… only eight who turned against the tide."

"A thousand?"

Elizabeth peered at Cassandra. "Centuries of factual history has been cut from records. The calendar was drastically altered to fit the present. But that is in and of itself another discussion."

"'Like the Maker and his bride?' So Andraste was a mage?" Cassandra asked.

"Yes," Elizabeth answered. "To keep mages in check, the Chantry distorted that information and twisted it so much that it became just another disputable myth. They want mages to think they are nothing more than natural order's mistake. The Maker only wanted the best for His children, so He gave us the best. A while ago, you asked me what I really thought about the Templars..."

Cassandra whispered, "Yes."

"My true feelings tie in with how I feel about the Chantry."

"Which is?" Cullen hinted for more.

"The Chantry hates everything Andraste was, but disguises that loathing as reverence. In reality, they do exalt Andraste, but only the non-mage existence of her. In addition, they twisted the narrative of the Maker and His role. They changed history and warped time to fit a need. It's the epitome of backwardness," she began, "and it's the main reason I despise the Chantry. They mistreat mages and use tranquility for the simplest of mistakes, all while hiding behind the order after commanding them to carry out these horrid acts. They destroyed all the factual proof that the Rite of Tranquility is blood magic and initially done by a blood mage mentally neutering mages. Templars live with more blood on their hands than mages ever will and because of that one hidden detail. The Chantry treats the order just as erroneously as mages because they're inot/i magic-wielding beings. They perpetuate the lie that Templars need lyrium to use their abilities. The truth is, lyrium actually suppresses the talents of Templars who use it and makes them mindless, feral animals. My brothers have never touched it, and are stronger because of doing so. The Chantry is content to bolster this hunger. It's all the plot to a much larger scheme: controlling the lyrium supply. The whole reason the Chantry wants the Circles is that if they didn't control the mages, they wouldn't have lyrium, and if the Chantry didn't have lyrium, they wouldn't have personal attack dogs. Or a means to control."

Cassandra rubbed her head. "The Rite of Tranquility is blood magic? There is so much that isn't known."

"It is yet another discussion, best had at another time," Mother Giselle stated.

"You haven't Ascended yet?" Leliana asked.

Elizabeth stood straight, shaking her head. "No. Those who Ascend go back to that moment. We have to remember what it was like to be there. This process is different for each of us. They take the place of the one before them. We find out the truth of everything from the beginning of time to now, experiencing everything from those before me. As a Draconis, mine is one of the more frightening and difficult ones to go through."

"What does it entail?" Cassandra wondered. "Do you know?"

"I can't divulge everything as each one of us experiences the process differently. Suffice it to say, at least from what my mother tells me: fire. Through fire, we were born, and through fire, we are reborn. As a Draconis, I will feel a calling to battle a High Dragon for my right to Ascend. Before the long fight is over, she will swallow me with her final breath. I have to fight my way out as thoughts enter my mind, much like someone is pushing nails into my skull. I will go through trials meant to bring me close to death. Each memory from those who came before me adds to my own. Each crucible is meant to test my resolve and willingness to do what must be done. The pain is so great that a surprising number have failed." She shook her head. "If I emerge, surging adrenaline from these experiences, on top of absorbing the soul of the dragon, will blind me. I will fight."

"Fight? Who?" Cassandra inquired.

"My Templar counterpart," she revealed. "I cannot Ascend without them."

"Miriam was able to Ascend without Alistair." Leliana's brows furrowed.

"Nathaniel without Aveline, too," Varric alerted them to his presence.

Elizabeth's hand went up. "They can, but had Aveline or Alistair not Transcended within six months of Nate and Miri being Ascended, they would have begun to deteriorate. Our life forces are bound. Draconis are the Leaders of the Bellators. The only ones who cannot Ascend without their templar Transcending first. When my counterpart Transcends, they will take my life force during their crucible. I will begin to slowly die until I ascend because of this fact. Should I be successful in not dying, I will aim for the most powerful foe. In order to test their new gifts of power, they will have to kill me. This will then return my life force to me."

Cassandra placed her hand on Elizabeth's shoulder, glancing over it to Mother Gisselle. "The Ellorian? Where do they fit into all of this?"

"Those there to witness the Chantry's heresy started our rebellious faction. We moved all existence and knowledge of this history to a vault away from the Chantry. Only one at a time is privy to its location. We track the Bellators and Legionaries, protecting them. If any were to get wind of what Elizabeth truly is, whether templar, mage, or Chantry, our plight could become greater and more difficult. Not to mention all the truths of the Maker and Andraste. The Chantry thought Bellators died out centuries ago. We want them to keep thinking such a thought."

"Then tell us now." Cassandra leaned forward. "The Inquisition could—"

"I cannot." Giselle put her right hand around her left, their position hanging in front of her. "When we go through initiation, we are given a potion that keeps us from loose lips. Even if I wanted to tell you, I could not. That is the way. I have to protect and preserve it, much like I must protect Lady Elizabeth."

"I do not?" Cassandra glared.

"It isn't that simple, Seeker. I wish it was." The mother hung her head.

"She's right about Ella, nonetheless." Josephine looked at the other three.

"Did Justinia know all this?" Cullen asked.

"She was Ellorian," Giselle confirmed. "It is why Elizabeth was approached to watch Ostwick for her."

"She couldn't have told us if she wanted to." Cassandra turned to Leliana.

"Neither could Elizabeth," Giselle added. "As Ellorian, Elizabeth viewed this encounter with Justinia as a vow for a vow. It wasn't until after Justinia's death that Elizabeth presented you with the journal of proof, was it? The oath was broken the moment Justinia breathed her last breath."

"But she needs protection," Cullen added. His eyes gazed into Elizabeth's. "I managed to retrieve more information from the prisoners who attacked before you left. They are from the Chantry. Assassins sent to eliminate you. However, they don't seem to know anything beyond the common knowledge everyone else has."

"Things have just gotten a lot more complicated." Cassandra observed all of them.

"This issue in Val Royeaux may only make things worse, I fear," Giselle stated.

"What have you found out about this rally?" Elizabeth inquired.

"I know those behind this denouncement," Giselle said. "Some of them are looking to become the new Divine. But they are terrified, and that is what caused this rally to form. I fear that the only way to smother this fire is to go and convince the remaining clerics in physical form that you are no demon to be feared. Most have been given lurid tales of you. Go to this rally and give them something else to believe."

"That won't make things worse?" Elizabeth wondered.

"Because you're a mage?" Giselle asked back.

Elizabeth shifted from one foot to the other. "That, too."

The Mother caressed Elizabeth's arm. "You needn't convince them all. You only need to cause some to doubt. Their power is their unified voice. Take that from them, and at worst, you take the time you need. At best, you have an effect."

Elizabeth exhaled. "It's worth a shot, I guess."

"Hope is what we need now," the mother told her. "The people will listen to your rallying cry, as they will listen to no other. You alone have the power to build the Inquisition into a force that will deliver us… or destroy us. Not your Commander, not your Spymaster, or your Diplomat. You."

"The Inquisition isn't mine." Elizabeth shook her head. "I don't lead it. I was thrown into this, and I am doing the best I can with what I am being given."

"Which is the responsibility no other mage has ever been given." Giselle looked at her softly.

"Because of the mark!" Elizabeth reiterated. "No offense to them." She motioned to the other four in the room. "But would I be here if I didn't have it? Can you honestly tell me they wouldn't have already hung me if given the chance? Especially knowing what I was, could you say without a doubt that they would have heard my pleas?"

"Thus, the answer to this holy war," Giselle replied with a smile. "Do you doubt?"

"Doubt is everywhere, Mother," Elizabeth replied.

"You are right." Giselle stepped forward. "But, everyone has a destiny. Yours is simply more complex than another's. As for who and what you are, these people were led to you for a reason. You have to show them the great things they are meant to be. Their loyalty to you is the last thing you should doubt. Go. Go to this rally. Let the Maker do the rest. Though we don't know what comes from this, He does."

Giselle bowed then left the room. Elizabeth stood there looking at the ground as she thought about what was said and what she needed to do.

"Cassandra," Cullen got their attention. "Until I find another, you and I are the only ones with the proper training I trust to keep an eye on the Herald."

"I agree." Cassandra nodded. "I will go to Val Royeaux with her. But I cannot go to Highever. I have some letters to write and preparations to make. Given this information, there are some things that need to be moved."

"I already set things up for some of my men and me to take her." Cullen put his hand up. "I know Cousland." He peered at Elizabeth. "I don't mean to make you feel like you are trapped again."

"We'll see what Orlais tells us." Cassandra leaned forward. "If it doesn't seem like they know you are a Bellator, we'll ease up. This rally could be over any number of things. Especially if they are sending people to do their dirty work."

"The good news is that we opened up a portal to Orlais. You won't have to leave right away." Leliana smiled. "Get some rest and take everything in."

"I'm sorry if I left doubt-"

Cassandra paused. "There are some things to discuss; things that need in depth exploration or exposure. But I trusted Justinia with my life. She knew everything about you and covered you in love, devotion, and respect. She protected you, kept your secret with care, regardless of choice. I will do nothing less, Herald."

"Thank you, Cassandra," Elizabeth responded.

"Nor will I, Herald." Leliana smiled.

"I am in agreement." Cullen bowed his head.

"You know me." Josephine beamed.

Elizabeth hiccuped a laugh. "I do."

She glanced over to Varric and Solas, who entered long ago, staying to listen in.

Solas glanced at Elizabeth. "Your history is impressive."

"Thank you." She uncrossed her arms and put one of them on Solas' and took Varric's hand with hers. "I need a game of Wicked Grace."

"I am afraid I have no more coin to give you," Solas responded.

"We should just throw it at her," Varric sassed. "It would be easier to part with."

Elizabeth chuckled as they walked out of the Chantry first, everyone else behind them.

"I do have some coin coming tonight from Varric. He gave me some useful leads for the Breach."

Elizabeth smiled at Solas. "After dinner, then?"

"I would enjoy that," Solas nodded.

"Me too," Varric glanced at Cassandra. "Seeker?"

"Yes," she answered. "I need to win some of my dignity back."

"Leliana?" Varric called to the Spymaster.

She grinned. "I'll come."

"Ruffles?"

"A lady never gambles," Josephine replied. "At least, not with people she doesn't know."

"You know your Ella." Varric motioned to Elizabeth.

"My Ella takes all of my coin."

"So it's not just you." Varric nodded. "Good to know she cheats with everyone."

"I do not cheat!" Elizabeth retorted. "Though that is half the point of the game, is it not?"

Varric huffed. "Leave it to a woman to twist the fabric of the situation to fill a need."

"You are getting too big for your breeches, dwarf." Elizabeth raised an eyebrow.

"You must be over-exaggerating," Cullen interjected.

"Join us, Curly," Varric invited him. "Maybe she'll take all your coin. You are more well off than I am."

"Smart saving." He grimaced. "Fine, I'll come. No one's that good."

Cassandra folded her arms. "You mean, no one is better than you."

"No." Cullen leaned to his other leg.

Cassandra laughed, and Varric pointed to him, glancing at Elizabeth. "Till you, this one won all the coin."

"Oh?" Elizabeth smirked. "Then it will be an honor to take your coin."

Cullen's forehead pressed his eyebrows down as the right side of his face stretched into a sarcastic smirk.

"Do I see a bet in your eyes, Curly?"

"You do," Cullen confirmed.

"Hm." Elizabeth turned entirely toward him. "Lay it on me, Commander."

"If you win, I will give you an extra 20 gold."

Everyone cooed.

"Twenty gold." Elizabeth thought for a moment. "No, if you are going to challenge me, bring more to the table."

"You want more gold?" Cullen reiterated.

"Fifty." Elizabeth smiled. "If you win this bet, I will give you 100."

"Don't get cocky." Varric shook his head at Cullen. "It may be a lot of coin, but it isn't worth it."

Cullen took her hand. "If I do lose, it will be a learning experience."

"Now, do I have to win the whole game or just beat you?" Elizabeth asked.

"Beating me would be the whole game, Trevelyan."

She scoffed, "You have yourself a deal."

"If nothing else, at least there will be entertainment." Leliana grinned at everyone.

The companions dispersed, Elizabeth trailing Cassandra and Cullen. She strolled to the fire pit, an area to the side at the end of the lined tents. Her body came to rest on a stump about five feet around. Cullen's letter appeared from her pocket, 'Trevelyan' scrawled across the front, causing her to sneak a peek of his figure ahead. Elizabeth grinned as she observed him and Spirit interact, her attention returning to the letter and reading.

Trevelyan,

These aren't nearly as deep as I thought they might be. I think you like to torture me. You are a minx.

1) A deal-breaker, for me, is infidelity. It's happened to me, and I can honestly say it isn't a good feeling. There are a lot of unanswered questions. I would like to say that I would stay, but you're slightly jaded once it happens. What is a deal-breaker for you?

2) No, I wouldn't. I was once faced with such a situation, and I couldn't take the woman back. What was done was done, and there was no way I could trust her again. Could you?

3) I'm not necessarily friends with them. They write to me every now and then, about once a month each. Mostly asking where I am and if they can come to see me or me, them. It's not really for the purpose of friendship either. They aren't the type to be friends. As for any others, no. One died during the siege at the tower here in Ferelden. Another disappeared from the Circle in Kirkwall when it disbanded. No one has seen or heard from her since, even her family. I suppose it's odd that I know such information. Despite who she was to me, she was good at what she did. I was hoping to recruit her. Are you friends with anyone that you have been with in the past?

4) Yes, I would relocate if it were true love. I wouldn't move for just anyone, but I wouldn't do it at all now. She would have to make that compromise. I don't know if I would see anyone outside of the Inquisition anyhow. It is who I spend most of my time with. Would you?

5) I was nine when I got my first kiss. There was a girl named Lizzy in my schoolhouse. She was adorable, and I thought she was an angel. It's such a cliche thing to say, but I was a boy at the time, and it was how I felt. How old were you?

6) Sadly, yes, I am a romantic. My father was always a good man to my mother, and I wanted to be that to someone. Are you a romantic?

7) I believe in lust at first sight. Love is something that forms after you truly learn someone. Love requires sacrifice, and if one is smart, they never sacrifice for someone they've just met. Love develops with intimacy and knowledge. The only thing you can do with someone you have seen and possibly talked to for no more than a few moments is nothing but lust. Though, I have done my fair share of lusting after women. I am a man, after all. Do you believe in love at first sight?

8) I thought I met the right woman once. But was shown otherwise, and I'm thankful. But I honestly can't say if I know the right one now or if she's out there. I guess when it is time, I will know. How about you, Trevelyan? Have you met the right man yet?

These questions were pretty mild compared to what came to mind when you told me about them. I have to admit that some of your answers need your voice behind them. We should plan time to go over them—especially the family ones. Sometimes, when we are in an unfamiliar place, it helps to visit the familiar. I would love to know more about your family.

Cullen

Elizabeth peered up from the ink-filled page, stealing another gander at him. Cullen was performing some maneuvers with a few of the newer recruits. As nimble fingers removed parchment from a book, her lips stretched into a smile at the sight of his form. Her response did take much time since the only thing she did was answer the questions. Just as Elizabeth signed it, she squinted up, noticing Cullen's hurried strides toward her.

"Are you all right?"

"Yes." He looked at her suspiciously. "Why?"

"Just making sure." She shrugged. "You looked like you had a purpose in your step as you approached."

"The purpose is my healing salve," he said, pulling it out.

Elizabeth observed the open jar, then glanced at the gnarly gash on his hand. "You're going to need more."

"I am," he replied.

"Also, a new pair of gloves." She held it up.

He chuckled. "Yes."

Cullen reached for his salve, but Elizabeth stopped him, her eyes darting from the glove to his injury. Cullen sat down next to her after she motioned. Elizabeth placed his hand on her thigh, using fire to sterilize her fingers, holding his extremity on her leg while inspecting the wound.

"Found it. Ready?"

Cullen nodded. Mere seconds passed as Elizabeth reached in, pulling out a fragment of material caught inside the gash. She immediately covered his hand in a healing glow. The commander was silent for a moment, then his lips softly smacked together.

"How did you know S'mores were my guilty pleasure?"

"It's a gift."

As they talked, Elizabeth cleaned off Cullen's hand, then wrapped a linen around it, drying it off, an orange glow radiating from her fingers.

"Not a 'tell your secrets' kind of girl, are you?"

Elizabeth outright laughed at his purposefully repeated question, then held up her letter. "You have gotten more out of me than most. You aren't the only one who hesitates to answer these kinds of questions. Count yourself lucky, Cully Wully."

He shook his head, trying to mask his smile as he blushed. "Good to know."

"In your letter, you mention a woman from the Circle in Kirkwall…."

"Yes," he answered slowly.

"'Another disappeared from the Circle in Kirkwall when it disbanded. No one has seen or heard from her since, even her family. I suppose it's odd that I know such information. Despite who she was to me, she was good at what she did.' Was she good at being a Templar? Or good at your relationship and providing a sense of satisfaction?" Elizabeth's eyebrow raised.

Cullen cleared his throat, trying to withstand his blushing. "Good at being a Templar. That isn't to say she was proficient in the other."

Elizabeth giggled, holding up his glove. "Do you have more gloves, Ser Knight?"

He seemed to hesitate. "I do not. I was going to confer with a seamstress, but I haven't had time."

"I can help," Elizabeth stated. "Though you'll be without them both the rest of the day. Think you can handle that?"

"Why both?"

"I am making you more," she held out her hand. "I need the one that isn't torn for measurement purposes."

Cullen smiled, then removed and handed it to her. "What would I have to do for more salve?"

She took the jar. "This time? Nothing. Consider it a freebie."

"That bodes ill for me the next time I need a favor." His eyes widened.

"Perhaps it does, Commander. We won't know until we get there, will we?"

"Maker's breath, Trevelyan!"

Elizabeth snickered. "What kind of salve would you like?"

"You can make different types?" he wondered.

Elizabeth nodded. "I use my healing essence. It's hard to explain, and you'd have to be there when I make it. I can make one to the specifications of what you want to taste, smell, feel... Or I can make one with all your favorites, like a moment ago."

"What you just healed me with is fine." He bowed his head. "Please."

"You got it!"

Elizabeth removed two miniature packs the size of a gold coin from her satchel. She settled them between her hands, causing something to break when she firmly pressed, palms inflaming. She motioned for Cullen to give her his hand once more. Cullen complied as Elizabeth unfastened his gauntlets, tucking the pouches in, then lacing them back up.

"What are these?"

"Something I came up with to keep my hands warm. I don't like how constrained gloves make me feel, but I use more mana to keep myself warm. Research and trial and error led me to these."

"What are they made from?" Cullen wondered.

"I was able to mimic lava," she said. "It hardens when cold, but when I break it apart and warm it, it becomes liquid. I thought it only worked with mages, but my brothers borrowed some. Apparently, your Smite ability works much the same way."

"It's brilliant."

"Thank you." Elizabeth pulled the strap of her bag over her head to her other shoulder. "Don't throw them away. I can reuse them."

"Then, to your custody they will return, my lady."

Elizabeth winked at Cullen then went toward the gate, entering a few minutes later. Varric approached her.

"How are you feeling, Dimples?"

"I could use more sleep," she confessed. "I am off to Adan's. I need to borrow his space and see if he has any energy potions for those of us that are functioning on minimal sleep."

"Mind if I join you?" Varric asked. "I need someone to keep me awake."

"I have no issue with it."

They entered Adan's hut. The apothecary was inside, placing some potions in a bag. He turned when he heard them come in.

"Herald, you're back," he grinned, "and in one piece."

"I think you've spent enough time on me, no?"

"Maybe I have. Is there something I can help you with?" Adan inquired.

Elizabeth held up a small tin. "I need to make Cullen more healing salve."

He motioned to the room. "Help yourself, my lady. My things are at your disposal."

"I will keep tabs of what I use."

"Nonsense." He waved his hands. "Your family made sure we were given supplies as well. Though not as many, The Hinterlands are in dire need. Most of our soldiers have improved significantly since the temple exploded."

"I did find more blood lotus." She placed them in the chest after showing him.

"How did the bombs work out?" he asked excitedly.

"Perfect," Varric answered. "They are just as good as a healing potion."

"Amazing!" he cooed. "I look forward to making more with you."

"Absolutely!" Elizabeth affirmed.

"Unfortunately, I am heading to the camp," he turned back to his bag and continued filling it. "We have a few expecting mothers and some sick children."

"Any healers among them?" Elizabeth asked.

"One."

"One?" Adan confirmed with a nod. Elizabeth stepped closer to him. "Let me know if I can be of service. I am an expert healer, and I will be here for at least a week."

"Well, I do have something I need your help with," Adan said slowly. "I have been trying to find time to talk to you about it."

"What's going on?"

"There are quite a few Templars who have decided to stop using lyrium," Adan began. "I've been meeting with them, but as you know, I am no healer. Not only that, but this requires not only specialties in alchemy, which I have, but a healer's magic; someone who has the knowledge and expertise to help ease their minds. I was told by Cassandra that you could help. I can work with you on potions, but they need the proper regimens and ear to listen to them as they come out of that horror."

"I will absolutely help!" Elizabeth promised. "I assisted quite a few to kick their habits in Ostwick."

"Cassandra confessed as much."

"Consider it done, Adan."

"Thank you, I will notify them, maybe meet with them tonight?"

"You talk to them, and let me know what you decide." Elizabeth gave him a warm smile.

Adan put his bag on, then turned to her and placed his hands on her upper arms. "Thank you, child. Now, don't worry about anything else or me."

"But she will." Varric chuckled.

"Before you go." Elizabeth stopped him. "Energy potions?"

He pointed to the cabinets on her right. "That one right there above you."

"Thank you."

Adan disappeared through the threshold, and Elizabeth gathered ingredients to make Cullen's salve, then placed a small glass tube on a stand, tightening it in position. She filled it with two powders, a pinch of each, an elfroot leaf, followed by a squirt of distilled health and elfroot extract. When everything was ready, she plunged a needle-like object into the palm of her hand.

"By the Paragons!" Varric cringed. "What are you doing?"

"This is a special needle." She held up both of her hands. "It's like a sewing needle, but it takes the essence from me. In this case, Cullen's. Like Hawke, when I heal someone, they get a certain taste, smell, emotion, feeling, something all their own. When this special needle has that essence, I pull it out." She pulled the needle, and a white light trailed behind it precisely like a white, glittery thread. "It's not painful, just draining."

"I don't remember Hawke making healing slaves like that." He peered from her hand to the vile it went into.

"I'm sure he did; he just never let you see it," Elizabeth replied. "It's a bit alarming to watch. A mage's healing essence is more beneficial to others. Most people just mix elfroot and healing potions. Essence works better and faster. Not only that, but Nathaniel is the Medicus or Healer. He has special abilities the other Bellators don't."

Varric grunted. "Still don't like it."

She hiccuped a laugh. "That is because I am draining my mana and making myself weaker."

Elizabeth placed the essence in the tube, then put it over the fire and let the contents boil together, turning to Varric.

"It doesn't do anything to you, doing that?"

Elizabeth shrugged. "About the same as healing someone. Can I ask you something, Varric?"

"More about me?" He smiled, realizing the tone she possessed. "I'm flattered. You do know I'm inclined toward extravagant lies, if you haven't figured that out by now."

"I'm sure, but it's worth a shot, hm?"

"Proceed, Dimples."

"You said you spent time in Kirkwall but is it home? Or are you from Ferelden? Or perhaps Orlais?"

"Nope." Varric shook his head. "Free Marcher. Born and raised in Kirkwall. Despite what you've heard, no. Kirkwall isn't that bad."

"I've never been," Elizabeth confessed. "I heard it was a place I needed to visit, but I never got around to it before all this started."

"Well, it's home, and I miss it," he paused for a moment. "But Hawke was what made it more of a home, Dimples. Had you been there through all that bull shit, well, let's just say seeing him go through it was hard enough. Both of you? I might have been on a murder spree along with Blondie."

Elizabeth smiled. "I'm not clear on your line of work..." she checked on her liquid. "You're a merchant?"

"I'm a businessman," he replied. "My family has a seat in the Dwarven Merchants Guild. Merchants buy and sell goods. Businessmen buy and sell stores. In my spare time, I manage a spy network. Occasionally, I write books."

Elizabeth focused on him. "Not that I'm trying to demean Leliana, but if you run a spy network, why is she our spymaster and not you?"

Varric exhaled. "Leliana's just a better spymaster. The truly great ones can keep their distance. They don't get attached to their people. Me? I always wind up babysitting my informants and worrying about their families. We're in better hands with her."

"Noted. I know about a few of your novels." She smiled. "What have you written?"

"I've tried my hand at a few things." The dwarf chuckled. "My crime serials are my most popular. 'Hard In Hightown.' Guards breaking the rules to get things done. 'The Tale of the Champion' is the most famous thing I've written. Or Infamous, maybe. As you know, I started a romance serial."

"Swords & Shields." She grinned.

"To be honest, I don't have a knack for romances."

Elizabeth smirked. "I wouldn't say it's bad. But, it could use some doctoring. We tend to put more effort into what we enjoy as opposed to what readers want."

"'We', huh?" He looked at her. "You write?"

She blushed. "I-I dabble."

"You know Swords & Shields?" he asked.

"You know that I do."

"The characters?" He leaned forward. "You think you've got them down?"

Elizabeth examined the dwarf with curiosity. "Yes."

"I tell you what, you write my next chapter. We'll see how you do."

"Deal!" Elizabeth turned to the glass vial, took the liquid from it, poured it into the jar, and added a few more powders. "What sort of shops do you own?"

"Actually, we don't own shops," Varric replied with a chuckle. "That was just an example. Mostly, we invest in money lenders: auction houses, a few mercenary companies, a couple of smithies. I think we own half a beet plantation in Rivain somewhere. Most of that's my brother's doing. Bartrand had a business sense. Not much tact, but loads of business sense."

"All right, Varric. The question I have wanted to ask but have resisted until now. How do you and Cassandra know each other?"

"You heard about the Kirkwall Chantry being destroyed?" Elizabeth nodded, and Varric continued, "As you know, the guy responsible used to be a friend of mine. The Seeker had questions about that, and I had answers."

"I'm sorry, Varric."

"Don't be." Varric shook his head. "It was taken care of."

"Used to be…" she looked over at him.

"Everything Blondie set into motion is causing all the mages to pay the price. Hawke. Hawke is paying the price, all while trying to clean it up. Blondie swore to help him, but in the end, he did this, and he stabbed Hawke in the back to do it. I'm still holding onto resentment, and I am content with it."

"I wouldn't dare to change that, Varric. I know all too well about holding onto resentment."

"Who?"

She turned to him. "When I was younger, much younger, I was ganged up on by three Templars. It didn't end well. I keep it to myself because when any mage has the opportunity to cry out about the oppression that Templars cause, it's usually the same story. I'm even sick of hearing about it. But to this day, nearly ten years later, I still want them dead. Not because they are Templars, but because of what they did to me. They were men who took advantage of a young girl. They forced me into womanhood."

"Hopefully, they get what they deserve." Varric distorted his face in disgust.

Elizabeth added a final powder. "There!"

"Finished?"

"I am!" she replied. "But I need to see Harritt next. I want to check on Cullen's sword and make him a few pairs of gloves."

"I'll have the final chapter of Swords & Shields delivered to your hut."

"Thank you, Varric," Elizabeth responded. "I will see you for dinner, and here, take an energy potion."

Varric took it from her and drank it, then set the bottle in the washbasin. "Thank you, Dimples."

He left the hut, and Elizabeth followed a few minutes later after cleaning up.

Cullen saw Elizabeth come out of the gates and traipse over to Harritt's. It reminded him he had a letter to read now that had a few moments of free time.

Cullen,

I love to make you blush; it's adorable seeing you get all out of sorts. I hope you did plenty of it when you read and replied.

1) A deal-breaker for me is deceit in the midst of unfaithfulness. Timothy hurt me, and it was pretty… heartbreaking. But then again, I never truly 'liked' him to begin with. I know you'll probably want me to explain that one, but it is a little too long of a story to put into a letter.

2) No, I would not take back a person who betrayed my trust. But I say that loosely. I think, or at least I'd like to, that when you truly love someone, separating isn't that simple. We're human, and we make mistakes. I'm not condoning or even understanding the behavior, simply stating that I don't judge others. Timothy has tried to get me to take him back numerous times, and it hasn't worked, nor will it. He's still trying. Thought maybe he would have bolted and disappeared off the map, but apparently, even with all of this happening around us, he still wants to be with me. Not sure whether to be flattered or… possibly worried?

3) Am I friends with anyone I have slept with? I am friends with Lucas. But he's the only one. Like I said, we've always been friends. But to be fair, we were friends first. 'The Agreement' as I like to call it came much later—another long story.

4) I think I would relocate for love, but I agree with you; it has to be authentic. Otherwise, I'm stuck in an awkward position.

5) Aww! Little Cullen all muddled. I can just picture your adorable cheeks all pink and red. Okay, I have to stop thinking about it before the cuteness smothers me. My first kiss was the cutest! I was five, and it was Aiden's wedding. When he and Crystal kissed, I grabbed the altar boy and let him have it, right on the lips!

6) I'm with you, romantic. My father and two older brothers are princes with how they treat my mother and their wives with the utmost respect. It's so pure and perfect. Growing up with it gave me a standard. I have yet to find any man to match it. But I won't lower it. I love being happy, and I want to stay that way. Love is complicated and messy; there is pain and disappointment, but if you go through it with someone who treats you like their whole life, then it's all worth it. Especially when you don't expect perfection. Love isn't always perfect, but isn't that the beauty of it?

7) You hit the nail on the head with this one, Cullen. There is no such thing as true love at first sight. But opinions vary.

8) And lastly, no. I haven't met Mr. Right yet, that I know of anyhow. I foresee myself being here for a while, so it could happen. But it can't be just any man. He's going to have a hard life ahead of him, not only because I can be difficult, but because of what will be required of him.

While I have your individual, undivided attention. I want to apologize. This afternoon was downright horrifying, and I can't believe I behaved so badly. You are a very handsome man, Cullen. But that doesn't give me the right to be mouthy, so I'm sorry. As far as getting together and talking about some of our answers or stories, that sounds like fun! I would love to do that. Just let me know when. I have a week to fill.

Trevelyan

Cullen chuckled, folding the letter, taking a gander at the Smithy's where Elizabeth was located. She was sitting on the wall, interacting with something in her hands while conversing with Harritt. Cullen stood, keeping his eyes on her intoxicating smile. From the looks of the light, the dinner bell would ring soon. He traipsed back to his men, having them reenact his earlier teachings.