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.

Elizabeth respectfully bowed, then exited the Chantry with Cassandra, telling the Seeker she needed to stop by her hut and put on some light armor. Once they made it, Elizabeth quickly changed her pants into some black cotton leggings that fit to form, hugging her curves, a matching leather corset vest followed. In the middle, chainmail lined the torso piece, buttons traced the left side, over her breast, though she left some unfastened. The ensemble was finished with ebony boots that came to mid-thigh and rolled at the top of the laces, revealing gray along the inside edge—an ashy-colored hip belt to thigh straps and a white, gray, pink anchor with a hood. Elizabeth left her hut, meeting Cassandra at the gate, braiding her crimson locks into a free-spirited side braid.

"You should make my armor."

Elizabeth laughed as the two women shuffled toward the meeting place. "Anytime you need me to come up with something, you let me know."

"Looking good today." Varric lustfully growled.

"You turn a girl's head, Varric."

As they went toward the portal, they saw Josephine, Leliana, and Cullen standing there. They were conversing, so she motioned for Cassandra, Varric, and Solas to approach quietly.

"Having the Herald address the clerics is our best idea," Josephine was the first voice heard.

"You can't be serious?" Cullen scoffed.

"Mother Giselle wasn't wrong: at the moment, the Chantry's only strength is that they are united in opinion," Josephine replied. "Besides, one of Leliana's scouts notified us that they are hand-in-hand with the Templars. If she is going there for one, why not get both?"

"We should ignore the danger to the Herald?" Leliana asked her.

"Let's ask her." Josephine nodded back to Elizabeth.

Everyone turned as she approached. "What's going on?"

"We never actually discussed the dangers this brings to you." Leliana peered at her.

Elizabeth shrugged. "I am in danger every day. I don't see the difference. My biggest concern is that this won't solve anything."

"I agree." Cullen turned from Elizabeth to everyone else. "It just lends credence to the idea that we should care what the Chantry says. The Templars should be our only focus."

"I am going with her." Cassandra stepped forward. "Mother Giselle said she could provide names? Use them."

Leliana jolted her shoulders. "But why? This is nothing but a—"

"What choice do we have, Leliana?" Cassandra interrupted. "Right now, we can't approach anyone for help with the Breach. The Templars might be a waste of time. We need to use what influence we have to call the clerics together. Once they are ready, we will see this through."

They studied each other, then nodded. Leliana gave Elizabeth the name of the people littering the area for support if they needed help. The spymaster left, as did Josephine after saying her goodbyes. As Elizabeth and her companions were about to leave, Cullen gently yanked his friend aside, erecting her hood.

"No weapons?"

Elizabeth glanced back to everyone else who was also naked of any defense. "Leliana set spies into motion. Our weapons are with them. I felt the best course of action was to look as less imitating as possible. I'm unsure if it will help, but they will be nearby should I need them."

Cullen exhaled. "Please be careful."

"I'll be fine, Cullen."

"I know, but I always feel the need to say it."

"I ask that you never stop," she replied.

"Come on, you're nearly there." Varric groaned.

Their faces moved further away as they chuckled, staring at each other, then Varric.

"The more you ask for it, the more they will dangle it in front of you, dwarf." Cassandra shook her head.

"Admit that you want it to happen too." He looked up at her. "I see the hearts in your eyes."

Cassandra shook her head with a disgusted grunt going through the portal with Solas. Elizabeth turned back to Cullen.

"Behave yourself." She winked.

Elizabeth disappeared with Varric into the portal, then it closed. After searching, the four made it into the town square and found where they needed to go. Cassandra, Varric, Solas, and Elizabeth went up the steps of the bridge and continued across. As they were making their way to their destination, a couple on the overpass saw them, and the woman screamed as the man grabbed her and scurried away. Elizabeth looked at Cassandra, who shrugged.

"Just a guess Seeker" Varric peered up at Cassandra, "but I think they all know who we are."

"Your skills of observation never fail to impress me, Varric."

As they proceeded forward, one of Leliana's scouts approached them rather quickly, then bowed, going to one of her knees. "My Lady Herald."

"You're one of Leliana's people. What have you found?" Cassandra asked.

"The Chantry mothers await, but" she paused, "so do a great many Templars."

"Well, we suspected they'd be here." Elizabeth faced Cassandra.

"People seem to think that since you are a mage, the Templars will protect them from you and the Inquisition. The Templars here are not friendly," the scout reported.

"What do you mean?" Cassandra wondered.

"They know of the Inquisition's desire for aid in closing the Breach," the scout continued. "They do not want to help. They're gathering on the other side of the market. I think that's where the Templars intend to meet you."

Cassandra started walking forward. "They wish to protect the people? From us?"

"You think the Order's returned to the fold, maybe? To deal with us upstarts?" Varric added.

"I know Lord Seeker Lucius," Cassandra responded. "I can't imagine him coming to the Chantry's defense, not after all that's occurred."

Elizabeth looked at the scout. "Return to Haven. Someone will need to inform them if we are delayed."

"As you say, Lady Herald." The woman bowed then ran for the portal they just came through.

"Well, are we ready for this?" Elizabeth glanced over her shoulder.

Varric, Solas, and Cassandra all nodded, and Elizabeth returned the motion and continued forward through the gates ahead. They could hear all the shouting, chanting, and cheering as they entered the area. They listened to a woman bellowing over the crowd. As they turned the corner, they saw some Chantry officials on a podium in the square. When they got closer, the woman's words became more natural to make out.

"Good people of Val Royeaux, hear me!" The woman raised her hands to the crowd. "Together we mourn the Divine. Her innocent and beautiful heart silenced by treachery! You wonder what will become of her murderer. Well, wonder no more! Behold the so-called Herald of Andraste! Claiming to rise where our beloved fell. We say this is a false prophet! The Maker would send no mage in our hour of need!"

Everyone standing around Elizabeth and her group started gasping and giving angry stares as they moved farther away from them. This slightly upset Elizabeth as she glared at the woman.

"We came here in peace, simply to talk— and this is what you do? I implore you: let us sit down together, to deal with the real threat!"

"It's true!" Cassandra stepped forward. "The Inquisition seeks only to end this madness before it is too late!"

"It is already too late!" the mother said as she pointed to her left at the approaching Templars. "The Templars have returned to the Chantry! They will face this 'Inquisition,' and the people will be safe once more!"

One of the men ascended on the mother and punched her in the face relatively hard, causing her to grunt and fall to the wooden planks. Elizabeth glared.

"Still yourself." A gray-haired man patted the arm of one of his men. "She is beneath us."

"Was that display supposed to impress me?" Elizabeth asked with irritation boiling up.

"On the contrary." He gave an eerie smile. "It wasn't for you at all."

As he stepped off the podium, Cassandra pursued him. "Lord Seeker Lucius, it's imperative that we speak with—"

"You will not address me."

Cassandra curiously eyed him. "Lord Seeker?"

He turned to her. "Creating a heretical movement, raising up a puppet as Andraste's prophet. You should be ashamed. You should all be ashamed! The Templars failed no one when they left the Chantry to purge the mages! You are the ones that have failed! You who'd stamp out noble swords with doubt and fear! If you came to appeal to the Chantry, you are too late. The only destiny here that demands respect is mine."

Elizabeth observed the men standing around him. "Templars, one of your own commands the Inquisition's forces. Join us, as he did!"

"You're a mage!" Lucius sneered. "Your ties are worthless. They're all traitors just by being in your company!"

Elizabeth stepped forward, her right hand glowing orange. Varric grabbed it and held it behind her as Solas put a healing hand on him when he hissed.

"Lord Seeker Lucius" one of his men, came up beside him, "what if she is sent by the Maker? What if—?"

"You're called to a higher purpose!" the man who punched the mother stifled him. "Do not question!"

"I will make the Templar Order a power that stands alone against the Void," Lucius stated with pride. "We deserve recognition. Independence! You have shown me nothing, and the Inquisition, less than nothing. Templars! Val Royeaux is unworthy of our protection! We march!"

They walked away, and Solas and Varric came to Elizabeth and Cassandra's side.

"Charming fellow, isn't he?" Varric peered at the two women.

"Has Lord Seeker Lucius gone mad?" Cassandra gasped.

"Do you know him very well?" Elizabeth wondered as she faced Cassandra.

"He took over the Seekers of Truth two years ago, after Lord Seeker Lambert's death," she told Elizabeth. "He was always a decent man, never given to ambition and grandstanding. This is very bizarre."

"It doesn't look like we'll be getting the Templars to help us after all, Dimples."

"Let's not write them off so quickly, Varric." Elizabeth smiled gently at him.

"I agree." Cassandra's eyes bounced between them. "There must be those in the Order who see what he's become. Either way, we should first return to Haven and inform the others."

"And what about this mess?" Varric motioned back to the mother and her people.

Elizabeth stared at the ground, processing. She was exhausted, this whole issue leaving her feeling alienated and undermined. But if she wanted to change minds and opinions and win hearts, she needed to be better. Elizabeth glimpsed back at the mother, squatting beside her.

"They knocked her out cold," one of the brothers said.

"May I?"

After some hesitation, the man bobbed his head. Elizabeth picked the mother up with Cassandra's assistance, the brother leading them toward the Chantry. As they were weaving through streets, an arrow almost impaled Elizabeth. Cassandra held tighter to the mother's arm around her neck so Elizabeth could bend down to pick it up. Attached to the shaft was a parchment. Her eyes grazed over the ink-filled paper before handing it to Varric.

"What is it?" he questioned.

"You tell me." She smiled. "Follow the lead and meet me at the Chantry when you are through. I need to be there when the mother wakes up if she has any more information."

"You got it, Dimples."

"Solas?" Elizabeth gazed at the elf.

"Yes?"

"Go with him, please?" Elizabeth's eyes glimmered.

Solas bobbed his head. "Anything you ask."

The two shuffled toward the next clue when a man came up to her. "Herald?"

"Yes?" she asked cautiously.

"I am delivering this on behalf of Lady Vivienne." He bowed then left.

Elizabeth put it in her pocket and went back toward Cassandra, seizing the mother's other arm as they walked her to the Chantry. After a few minutes, they arrived at the mother's quarters, where they put her on the bed. Cassandra and the brother attended to her while Elizabeth wrote to Cullen, Leliana, and Josephine, letting them know that they would be delayed to get more information from the mother. She sent Spirit back since she was the fastest.

The mother began stirring. Elizabeth walked over, studying her.

"Mother Hevera," Cassandra approached the bed.

"This victory must please you greatly, Seeker Cassandra." She sat up slowly.

"We came here seeking only to speak with the mothers." Cassandra squinted. "This is not our doing, but yours."

"You had no part in forcing our hand? Do not delude yourself." The mother shook her head. "Now we have been shown up by our templars, in front of everyone. And my fellow clerics have scattered to the wind, along with their convictions." She looked at Elizabeth. "Just tell me one thing: do you truly believe you are the Maker's chosen?"

"Honestly, Mother" Elizabeth stepped forward, "I don't know. The title of Herald and everything that followed started based on what others claimed to see. I don't remember what happened. What the Maker has decided is really up to Him."

"That is…" the mother paused and sighed, "It is more comforting than you might imagine. I suppose it is out of our hands now. We shall all see what the Maker plans in the days to come."

"I would like to ask you some questions if you are feeling up to it," Elizabeth said. The mother nodded, so she sat in a chair across from her. "What happens now? Will the Chantry continue to denounce me?"

The mother demeaningly chuckled. "We have already done so, and what good has it done us? Now it falls on us to select a new Divine, if we can, and leave the next step to her."

"Provided such a selection is possible." Cassandra looked from Elizabeth to the Mother.

"I truly don't know." The woman shrugged. "Any revered mother who could have followed Justinia died at the Conclave. What becomes of us, and your Inquisition, is in the Maker's hands now."

"Do you have any idea where the Lord Seeker is taking the Templars?" Elizabeth inquired.

"I can't begin to guess the Lord Seeker's mind." She shook her head slowly. "He could not have abandoned his intended role more completely."

Cassandra turned from the mother to Elizabeth. "There must be sense to it that we can't see."

"Must there?" The mother glared at her. "Rebellion seems popular in certain quarters, doesn't it, Seeker? Is crafting the Templars into a new power any worse than declaring a rival to the Chantry itself?"

"What were you hoping the Lord Seeker would do, exactly?" Elizabeth redirected.

"Put aside his war against the mages and find common purpose against something much more dire." The mother took a deep breath then let it out. "Obviously he had other plans. With the Order's Knight-Vigilant slain at the Conclave, there is nothing more we can do."

Cassandra stepped to Elizabeth's side. "Perhaps there is more we can do."

Elizabeth held on to the Seeker's wrist then faced the mother when she spoke, "I'd like to believe that, Seeker. I truly would. I suppose we can expect renewed effort against the mages from him, and yet more chaos."

"Any idea how many Templars turned on the Chantry, exactly?" Elizabeth asked her.

The mother huffed. "They rebelled across Thedas. Some remained loyal, but not enough to call them 'The Order.' The White Spire here in the Capital was the largest garrison, but it now stands empty. Perhaps more shall flock to the Lord Seeker's banner now. How far has faith waned, I wonder."

"Any idea of how people are responding to all of this?" Elizabeth wondered.

A brother stepped forward. "Despairing. Afraid."

"We mourn Her Holiness," the mother said. "The people look to the sky and wonder how long before terror comes for us all. There must be a way through this. Is it you? The Templars? The Maker's will? We abandoned our duties, we servants of the faith. Now we can only pray."

Elizabeth looked her in the eyes. "It's not too late: the Chantry could still help us and come out on top."

"If only that were true."

"What's to stop you from trying?" Elizabeth asked her.

"We are not looking for a winning horse," the mother bit back. "We are simply trying to do the right thing."

Elizabeth sighed. "Fine, see where that gets you without any help."

"The Maker will provide," the mother replied.

Elizabeth looked at her, there was silence as the mother panted. Then Elizabeth peered to the ground as tears filled her eyes. "Not for you, Mother."

Elizabeth stood and motioned for Cassandra to follow her out of the mother's quarters, then the main auditorium. Once they were down the stairs and walking out the door, Cassandra came up beside her.

"What happened?"

"Another moment where I did not have a choice." Elizabeth shook her head.

"Has the Maker gone mad?" Cassandra practically yelled. "You could be discovered!"

"No." Elizabeth shook her head. "She won't live to tell a soul. The brother with her has been paid to kill her." Cassandra stopped, turning around. Elizabeth gently seized her arm. "It's His will, Cassandra. We can't intervene here."

"So, He'll stop raving lunatics, but He won't show His child her destiny?"

"It isn't that simple, Cassandra." Elizabeth sighed. "I know doubt is everywhere, but please trust me. I need you now more than ever."

Cassandra stepped forward. "I have never taken more pride in my title or namesake than when I started following you. I trust you with everything that I am."

"Everything all right?" Solas asked as he and Varric walked up to them slowly.

"Yes," Cassandra replied.

"Come on." Elizabeth motioned to them. "We need to get back to Haven before our people worry."

As Elizabeth, Solas, Cassandra, and Varric were leaving the area, making their way back from where they came, a woman stepped out from a nearby alley.

"If I might have a moment of your time?" she asked.

"Grand Enchanter Fiona?" Cassandra observed the woman with surprise.

Solas stepped close to the mage woman. "Leader of the mage rebellion. Is it not dangerous for you to be here?"

Fiona peered back to Elizabeth. "I heard of this gathering, and I wanted to see the fabled Herald of Andraste with my own eyes. If it is help with the Breach you seek, perhaps you should look among your fellow mages."

"I'm honestly surprised the leader of the mages wasn't at the Conclave," Elizabeth hinted for more.

"Yes." Cassandra turned from Elizabeth to Fiona. "You were supposed to be, and yet somehow you avoided death."

"As did the Lord Seeker, you'll note," Fiona replied. "Both of us sent negotiators in our stead, in case it was a trap. I won't pretend that I'm not glad to live. I lost many dear friends that day. It disgusts me to think the Templars will get away with it. I'm hoping you won't let them."

"So you do think the Templars are responsible?" Elizabeth wondered as she tried to keep her anger at bay.

"Why wouldn't she?" Cassandra scoffed.

"Lucius hardly seems broken up over his losses, if he's concerned about them at all," Fiona snapped back. "You heard him. You think he wouldn't happily kill the Divine to turn people against us? So yes, I think he did it. More than I think you did, at any rate."

Elizabeth leaned back and crossed her arms. "I have to confess, Fiona, I am a little concerned. The mages weren't willing to talk to the Inquisition before. Why now?"

"Because now I've seen what you are," she responded. "And I've seen the Chantry for what it is. Consider this an invitation to Redcliffe: Come meet with the mages. An alliance could help us both, after all. I hope to see you there. Au revior, my lady Herald."

Fiona bowed then took her leave. Elizabeth watched the mage woman retreat when she felt Cassandra's hand on her shoulder.

"Come," she said softly. "Let us return to Haven."

Elizabeth, Solas, Cassandra, and Varric stepped through the portal as Elizabeth glimpsed over the paper from her pocket.

"What is it?" Varric questioned.

"I am being requested to join a party." Elizabeth read. "It is tomorrow evening. I'll need to get a dress. Cassandra and I need to talk to everyone, see you guys tomorrow?"

Solas bowed and trekked to his hut; Varric winked, sauntering toward his tent. Elizabeth smiled at Cassandra then stepped into the Chantry. As they entered, Cullen, Leliana, and Josephine approached her.

"It's good you've returned. We heard of your encounter." Josephine examined her.

"You heard?" Cassandra inquired.

"My agents in the city sent word ahead, of course," Leliana responded. "Elizabeth was a bit vague in her note."

"It's a shame the Templars have abandoned their senses as well as the Chantry." Cullen shook his head.

Elizabeth stepped in between Cullen and Leliana. "At least we know how to approach both the mages and Templars now."

"Do we?" Cassandra asked. "Lord Seeker Lucius is not the man I remember."

"True," Leliana admitted. "He has taken the Order somewhere. But to do what? My reports have been very odd."

"We must look into it," Cullen replied. "I'm certain not everyone in the Order will support the Lord Seeker."

"Or the Herald could meet the mages in Redcliffe, instead," Josephine suggested.

"You think the mage rebellion is more united?" Cullen stopped, turning toward Elizabeth. "It could be ten times worse!"

"I could at least find out what the mages want." Elizabeth shrugged.

"No doubt what they've always wanted: support for their cause," Cassandra said with slight bitterness, for which Elizabeth had to bite her tongue.

"We shouldn't discount Redcliffe," Josephine bounced her gaze from Cassandra to everyone else. "The mages may be worth the risk. What do you think, Ella?"

For a moment she was silent then shook her head. "Right now, I am certain we do not have enough influence to approach either safely. The Inquisition needs agents in more places. That is something you can help with."

Leliana nodded. "I will."

"In the meantime, we should consider other options," Josephine reminded them.

"Agreed." Elizabeth sighed then handed Josephine the invitation. "Can you help me with this?"

Josephine studied it. "What do you need?"

"I need your contacts, if you know what I mean?"

The Ambassador clipped it to her board. "I will make the necessary appointments. Anything else?"

Elizabeth looked at Cullen. "I will also need Alex and Martin."

"For?"

"A ball," she replied. "I'm not taking my usual three. I need a detail, and I am claiming them."

Cullen nodded. "You'll have them."

"Good, tell them to meet with Josephine once she has a time table," Elizabeth said as she walked toward the door.

"Herald," Leliana called out to her. "Are you all right?"

She turned, though not fully. "No, but thank you for asking."

Elizabeth continued down the path to her shanty, where she entered, immediately approaching Spirit. The bird climbed on Elizabeth's forearm, rubbing her head on Elizabeth's cheek. After a thoughtful exchange, Spirit glided over to the bed, perching on a pillow. Elizabeth pulled off her belt, tossed it on the bed, then removed her boots and threw them in the chest. Her vest followed, leaving her in a tank top and leggings. Elizabeth padded to the desk, snatching a glass to pour herself some wine. She sat down, hearing a knock moments later.

"Come in," she called. The door opened, and a familiar face entered. She leaned back in her chair. "Cullen."

He padded further in. "I know you well enough to know when I'm needed."

She motioned for him to take the seat across from her. "A girl couldn't ask for a better friend."

Cullen received the mug after getting comfortable. "If I can be honest, I am unaware of what to say, if anything."

Elizabeth took a deep breath, then slowly released it as she played with the stem of her wine glass. "A few minutes ago, I would have said silence was preferable. Now…"

"What would you like me to fill the quiet with, my lady?"

She looked over at him. "I'd like to invoke the profession topic, if you will."

"I think we're ready for that. Fire away, Trevelyan." He motioned for her to proceed.

"Why do you think the Templars would break away from the Chantry?"

"The Order believes that the Chantry no longer supports their efforts," he replied. "At least, not to the extent they should."

Elizabeth slid a parchment over, Cullen bounced his eyes between the parchment and Elizabeth, before picking it up.

He read it aloud. "'Most Holy, The Seekers are well aware of the part you played in the rebellion. You call me to the Grand Cathedral in the middle of the night on "urgent" business only to speak of trivial matters? And then, when I return to the White Spire, I discover chaos... and one of your agents in the midst of the apostates. Did you think I would not notice? Did you believe yourself above repercussions for such acts? It was a dark day when the Chantry placed such an incapable woman upon the Sunburst Throne. I will not stay idle and watch you destroy what ages of tradition and righteousness have built. In the twentieth year of the Divine Age, the Nevarran Accord was signed. The Seekers of Truth lowered our banner and agreed to serve as the Chantry's right hand, and together we created the Circle of Magi. With the Circle no more, I hereby declare the Accord null and void. Neither the Seekers of Truth nor the Templar Order recognize Chantry authority, and instead we will perform the Maker's work as it was meant to be done, as we see fit. Signed this day on the fortieth year of the Dragon Age, Lord Seeker Lambert Van Reeves.'" Cullen set it down. "As I said."

"So you agree?"

"Well, given the history lessons you've taught us, and how I've felt in my profession as a Templar" he paused, gazing into her eyes, "yes."

"The Templars have served the Chantry for ages..." Elizabeth fished for something.

"In that time the Chantry has come to take the Order's services for granted. Templars risk their lives against blood magic, demons, abominations— to feel as if those efforts are dismissed…" Cullen sighed. "I may disagree with the Order's actions— that I'm here is proof of that— but I sympathize with their frustrations."

"Do you approve of the decision made today?"

Cullen took a deep breath as he considered her question. "I may not be as devout as I should. But the Chantry aside, yes. Based on the things you have told me, the Chantry and Order should never have been as intertwined as they are now. Perhaps, it assisted in creating these events."

"When I talked to Mother Giselle today, she said something that coincided with everything happening." Elizabeth thought for a moment. "She said: 'The Chantry has become an imperfect vessel, pulled in every direction by those who would steer its course. Yet the Templars rebelled precisely because Divine Justinia was not restrictive enough.' Do you agree?"

Cullen sat in silence, the whole of it staring into Elizabeth's eyes. "At one time I may have agreed with her. There are Templars in The Order who do feel that way. But now, I've grown enough to know that hate and violence only begets more hate and violence. The more mages and Templars fight and the Chantry suppresses it, the more likely the world will be to pay for it. There are safeguards we could put in place, but it appears the solution will need to be more complex than the problem. For too long the Chantry filled The Order's heads with nonsense. It didn't help the situation at hand. Justinia was trying to get us back to where we needed to be. As much as I admire the Divine for that, you being here makes it painfully obvious that she was never meant to do more than plant the idea."

Elizabeth muttered, "Hm…"

He looked at her as she went deep into thought. "What?"

She shook her head, glancing back toward him. "Nothing, Cullen. I'm just processing. I—"

He leaned forward. "Let me in."

She exhaled. "I'm just exhausted. These issues have been gnawing at these factions since before we were a twinkle in our father's eyes. Regardless of Ascending or not, I was raised to know the beauty that can come from both if we just work together with respect and understanding." She shook her head then slammed the side of her fist into her desk. "How did we get here? I'd like to say we're both better than this, but history disagrees, and it will continue to as long as questions remain unanswered."

"I hoped to the Maker that I'd have the answers for you, Trevelyan," Cullen stammered. "But I don't."

"It's all right, Cull. I'm just talking out loud. My family is and always has been filled with both mages and Templars, and no matter how much disagreement there was between us, we were still on the same page."

"I always dreamed of that for the Circles," Cullen confessed. "But it wasn't in the cards at the time. But a new hand has been dealt, and if anyone has a chance of bringing us back together, it's you."

"You've developed a lot of faith in me, Cullen."

"You're an admirable woman, Trevelyan." He smiled.

"I'm sorry that in your time as a Templar, you felt taken advantage of," she said sincerely. "I pray that I am never a cause for those feelings to resurface."

"I don't think it's in you to undervalue someone," he countered.

Elizabeth wondered, "Does it ever feel strange to you, being away?"

Cullen nodded. "It does, at times. I'm still getting used to it myself. It's been interesting."

"What made you join?" Elizabeth wondered.

"I could think of no better calling than to protect those in need. I used to beg the Templars at our local Chantry to teach me when my father was preoccupied. At first, they merely humored me, but I must have shown promise, or at least a willingness to learn. The Knight-Captain spoke to my parents on my behalf. They agreed to send me for training. I was thirteen when I left home."

"Thirteen— that's still so young."

"I wasn't the youngest there." Cullen shrugged. "Some children are promised to the Order at infancy. Still, I didn't take on full responsibilities until I was eighteen. The Order sees you trained and educated first."

"What about your family— did you miss them?" she inquired.

"Of course," he replied. "But there were many my age who felt the same. We learned to look out for one another."

"Did you ever do anything other than guard mages?" she wondered, resting her foot against Cullen's chair.

"Templars protect against the dangers of magic, my lady." Cullen raised an eyebrow at her. "Before The Order left the Chantry, that meant serving in the Circle. They were also tasked with tracking apostates or fighting demons inevitably summoned by the weak or malicious."

"What do you think of mages?" She looked at him deeply. "Are they all a threat?"

Cullen processed the mage's question. As he thought for a minute longer, he realized that was the first time he'd referred to Elizabeth in that way. He thought of the woman as a potential threat, at one time guilty of slaughter. Of course, Cullen knew what she was, but it was part of her, thus part of the whole persona, so it never figuratively slapped him until these challenging questions, with arduous answers, surfaced. He peered back into her beautiful rosy-hued eyes.

She sat forward. "Cullen, if I crossed a line-"

"No, no. It's nothing like that." Her commander exhaled. "I've seen the suffering magic can inflict. I've treated mages with distrust because of it-at times, without cause. That was unworthy of me. I will try not to do that here. I especially don't want to do that to you. You've become one of my dearest friends, Trevelyan. But I do want to be honest, and I will say that I think we need safeguards in place to protect people-including mages-from possession, at the least."

"I agree," she replied. "My phylactery was proof of that, though maybe my statement didn't need to be so bold."

"Perhaps not." Cullen smiled. "But it stays with me in case Roderick gets complicated."

"Well, I know how I spent my time in the circle, but what was a typical day for a Templar?"

Cullen laughed. "Typical? The last time I was in a circle was right before it fell apart. Nothing was typical."

"Okay." Elizabeth shrugged. "Before that then."

"Certain rituals require a full guard. A mage's Harrowing, for instance, I've attended a few. Most of the time you merely maintain a presence-on patrol or in the circle. Ready to respond if needed. Mages pretend to ignore that presence, but they are watching you just as closely."

"We could spend all day with the Templars, and yet they rarely spoke to us," Elizabeth grinned at him. "Though a few were rebels."

"A habit often mistaken for coldness, I'm sure," he replied. "But we are expected to keep a certain distance from our charges. If a mage is possessed or uses blood magic, you must act quickly, without hesitation. Your judgment cannot be clouded. Of course ignoring one another does nothing to foster understanding."

"My brothers told me a little bit, but what does Templar training involve?"

"There is weapon and combat training. Even without their abilities, Templars are among the best warriors in Thedas. Initiates must also memorize portions of the Chant of Light, study history, and improve mental focus."

"Did you enjoy your training?" she wondered.

"Like you, I wanted to learn everything. If I was giving my life to this, I would be the best Templar I could."

Elizabeth smiled at him. "You were a model student."

Cullen chuckled. "I wanted to be. I wasn't always successful. Watching a candle burn down while reciting the Chant of Transfigurations wasn't the most exciting task. I admit, my mind sometimes wandered."

"I often had to do that as a punishment for my tricks. Very dull." Elizabeth sighed, Cullen resumed his snickering. She faced him. "Tell me this: do Templars take vows? 'I swear to the Maker to watch all the mages'-that sort of thing?"

"There's a vigil first. You're meant to be at peace during that time, but your life is about to change. When it's over, you give yourself to a life of service. That's when you are given a philter-your first draught of lyrium-and its power. As Templars, we are not to seek wealth or acknowledgment. Our lives belong to the Maker and the path we have chosen."

"A life of service and sacrifice, tell me, did you give up physical temptations?"

"Physical? Why-" he looked over to her, and her face read exactly how he imagined. He cleared his throat. "Why would you-it wasn't expected. You know Templars can marry, you're brothers have. There are rules around it, and the Order must grant permission. Some may choose to give up more to prove their devotion, but it is, um, not required. But um… no… you know I never took such vows. Maker's breath, Trevelyan-can we speak of something else?"

She giggled. "You know I do it on purpose now, right? You've told me numerous times you've been with women."

"I just go with it," he shook his head. "You bother me, Trevelyan."

"I needed a laugh." She wrinkled her nose at him. "So tell me, what do you think of the people you work with?"

"Who do you mean?"

"Well, what do you think of Josephine?"

"We have little in common. How she delights in meeting with nobles all day is beyond me." He shook his head. "But I enjoy working with her. She's a happy person."

"How do you like working with Leliana?" Elizabeth asked, taking the final sip of her wine.

"The Inquisition would not exist without her. I may not always agree with her methods, but she is more passionate about our cause than anyone. Cassandra may have declared the Inquisition publicly, but Leliana is just as responsible for its formation."

"Are you satisfied with the Inquisition's forces?"

"Our numbers are small, but they suit our needs for the time being." He shrugged. "Some Templars joined us instead of following the Order. They've proven invaluable in training new recruits."

"Good. I'm glad you are happy here."

"I am." He grinned.

She took her foot down. "I'm sorry if I kept you too long, Cullen. I know Saturday is a day you get to sleep in. I don't want to impede."

"I am sure you are eager to get some rest as well." He set his glass down. "Thank you for allowing me to spend some time with you."

"Never feel nervous about coming to see me, Cullen." She walked him toward the door. "I value our time together, as I value your friendship and wisdom. It's priceless to me."

"I feel the same." He bowed. "Sleep well, Trevelyan."

Elizabeth closed the door, leaning against it with a sigh. The commander's scent was still lingering in the air. She sauntered toward her bed, stripping, then climbed between her sheets. Her head was close to Spirit as her index finger caressed the bird's chest. Elizabeth's eyelids grew heavy, her consciousness slowly drifting into the Fade.

Elizabeth awoke to the morning's rays spilling through cracks in the shutters, a small pile of letters adorned her desk. She wrapped herself in the sheet, padding to her desk, shuffling through the various parchments. The most important notes were from Josephine and Cullen. She opened Josephine's first.

Ella,

I got ahold of my contacts, and they will be expecting you around mid-afternoon.

Josephine

She folded that one then reached over for Cullen's and opened it up.

Trevelyan,

Martin and Alex will be ready to leave with you today, mid-afternoon. Let me know if you need anything or anyone else to go with you.

Also, thank you for last night. Though it is still a sensitive matter, I enjoyed talking about what I once was. I've left that life, but it's still a part of me. To talk to someone who values that stance is refreshing.

Cullen

She opened another letter from Leliana next.

Herald,

I found something you might find interesting. See me in the War Room when you get a chance.

Leliana

Elizabeth dressed in tan embellished pants, dark brown boots, a brown tank top that matched her shoes, and a faded burgundy hooded sweater like the one she wore a few days ago. Nimble fingers braided her hair, starting on the left side, coming to the right at an angle, where she pulled the rest up into a messy bun. Elizabeth straightened up the bed, organized the letters, then filtered through her morning routine habits shortly before leaving her cabin.

Elizabeth stepped into the War Room where everyone was already standing, going through their letters.

"Herald," Cassandra greeted. "Feeling better this morning?"

"A little." She yawned. "Didn't sleep well last night. But I am fine. Leliana, you had something for me?"

"Yes." She nodded. "Before the Fifth Blight, and the arrival of the Hero of Ferelden, Haven was occupied by cultists who worshiped a dragon— one which they believed to be Andraste reborn."

"Actually" Elizabeth faced the hooded woman, "my mother put her here to guard the Temple. Miri was in a meeting with her for a few hours trying to explain that one away."

Leliana's eyes widened. "I didn't know."

"I'm sure my mother would forgive you too."

Everyone turned to the spymaster with wide eyes.

She glanced at them then to Elizabeth. "I have no idea how, but I will find a way to make this up to your family."

Elizabeth busted out laughing. "I am just teasing, Leliana."

Everyone else joined in.

"That is…" Leliana shook her head.

"My mother did put the dragon there to protect the Temple, but terms and conditions changed once you entered. It's all right, Leliana. Anyway, you were talking about the cultist..."

"The cultists were long gone by the time The Hero and the Chantry arrived at the Temple of Sacred Ashes. However, those who built it may have left undiscovered passages in the mountains containing their relics. With a concerted search effort, it might be possible to unearth something useful to the Inquisition."

"You want to send your people in?"

"Precisely," she confirmed.

"Cullen, can you send some of your men to assist? Some heavy lifting might aid them with their strength training."

He nodded. "I have a few that could use the exercise."

"Let me know what you find, Leliana." Elizabeth turned to her friend. "Josephine, are all the preparations made for today?"

"Yes, Ella," she confirmed. "You don't need to take anything" she paused, "other than maybe your thigh holster."

Elizabeth bobbed her head. "Noted."

"Anything else?" She looked at Cullen. "Your men good?"

A boy ran in and handed Elizabeth a parchment, then left. She read as she listened to Cullen.

"Our men are doing well," he responded. "Some days are better than others."

"We all have our down days, Cullen," she reassured him. "After the meeting, Adan and I talked. We estimated that about sixty-one percent are coming off lyrium. I'm not suggesting we coddle them. Maker knows that the enemy, whoever it may be, won't go easy on them. But, they are going to have days where they can't function. I will be starting most of them on regimens, hopefully it will help."

Cullen paused for a moment then bowed his head. "As you wish."

"Also, go see Harritt on your way back." She waved the parchment. "You're sword is ready."

"Sword?" Leliana's face molded into curiousness.

"Yes," Elizabeth responded. "The one he has is horrendous. His armor is beautiful, but a smith threw a sword at him that wasn't to his measurements."

"I didn't notice," Leliana replied. "If I had known I would have had a better one issued to him."

Cullen shrugged. "I've made do, and I would have continued to, had Trevelyan not noticed."

"The Inquisition should cover the payment," Leliana turned back to Elizabeth. "I can send the coin down."

"Nonsense," Elizabeth waved her hand. "I sent some people to recover the supplies needed. Harritt is rather giddy at the amount left."

"People, hm?" Leliana raised an eyebrow.

"Well, your people." Elizabeth's eyes grew wide. "Did they not tell you?"

"They did," she confirmed. "Just seeing if you'll sweat."

Elizabeth's left eyebrow lifted in amusement. "You are going to have to put me to work if you want me to sweat."

"What kind of work?" Elizabeth smirked, causing Leliana to mirror it. "Duly noted."

"What would everyone think?" Elizabeth inquired.

"You wouldn't be my first woman." Leliana shrugged.

Elizabeth winked.

Cassandra shook her head. "Are we really talking about this?" She looked over, Elizabeth leaning against the table, gazing at the Seeker with an expression that made her tingle. "Why are you looking at me as a sweet meat to be devoured?"

"Somebody needs too. It gives you pause."

"Do not make me slap you." Cassandra glared.

Elizabeth shook her head. "Don't, the commander is already turning beet red."

They all looked at Cullen, and he shook his head with a squint. "There are too many women in this room."

They all laughed. Elizabeth grabbed a few things. "Have Alex and Martin meet me at the portal in five hours."

Elizabeth left the room, heading toward Seggrit.

"Seggrit?" She shook his hand. "I am sorry that I have not been by sooner. When I was touring the area, you weren't here. But I should have come back before now."

"You are a busy woman." He bowed. "I understand. I'm glad to see you awake and out of the clutches of Cassandra. I did pay a knife-ear to inform me the moment you were free. No matter, no matter. I am honored to meet you. And thank you for all you've done and hopefully, will still do."

"What do you mean?" Elizabeth wondered.

"Word's already spreading that if anyone can close that blighted thing in the sky, it's you," he replied. "Anything you need is yours. For a reasonable price of course. Supplies are a little tight given the circumstances."

"What kind of person stays to run a shop at a time like this?" Elizabeth gave an expression of curious amusement.

"The kind with nowhere else to go," he responded. "Those blasted demons destroyed most of my goods. If I stay here, work some contacts, I can start rebuilding— and maybe, just maybe, help you folks out in the process."

"You must speak with everyone here: how are the people doing?"

"Hope and fear in equal measure," he said. "No one knows what it means when an Inquisition is called, yet. I imagine it's no better for you. You have my sympathies, for what it's worth."

Elizabeth smiled. "Thank you, Seggrit. Well, let's see what you've got."

He motioned to the table as she took a look. "Of course, all my wares are here."

After browsing Seggrit's wares, acquiring some schematics, she sold most of her goods. The salesman noted the diagrams were unfinished and would simply give them to her, but she volunteered to pay, deeming it fair if she managed to complete them and make coin off the finished product. She folded the plans and placed them in her pocket. Elizabeth waved, then exited the gates, making her way to Harritt. She arrived to see that Cullen was still present, patiently waiting for the final touches.

He turned to her and sighed. "This sword is worth my weight in gold."

She shook her head. "Shut your beautiful face and accept this priceless gift from your dearest, most amazing, utterly charming friend."

He laughed. "As you wish."

"You made it just in time, hero lady." Harritt approached them both. "I was just about to check the measurements."

"Great!"

"You are getting joy out of this." Cullen smiled.

"Of course," she replied. "There is nothing like holding a weapon made for you. It feels like an extension of your body. My daggers and bow are part of me."

"I've never seen you use your daggers" he thought for a moment, "or your bow."

Elizabeth grinned at him. "We'll have to plan a play date then. It will help you readjust to having the right sword in your hand."

"I'd like that," he agreed.

"All right, Commander." Harritt handed Cullen the sword. "Hold it, point up."

Cullen did as asked. Harritt eyed it as the sword was elongated, its tip at Cullen's ear. Harritt motioned to Elizabeth, the woman assuming his place in front of Cullen, and observed him with a beaming expression.

"Perfect."

He smirked. "I think that's become your favorite word for me."

She gave her classic nervous smile. Here before long he would have to give it a name, it was, after all, all her own.

"Maybe it has, Commander." She blushed a little more. "Do something with it, see how she feels."

Cullen stepped out and moved with it, then looked back at her. "You weren't kidding. Feels a lot better than my other one."

"See!" Elizabeth turned to Harritt and kissed his cheek three times. "You're bloody brilliant!"

He laughed. "If you are going to kiss me like that every time I make you something, I am going to stop accepting your coin."

"Oh!" Elizabeth giggled then gave a seductive growl.

"Feisty." He chuckled.

"Thank you so much, Harritt," she cooed. "I will worry about him less now."

"You are welcome." The smith bowed.

Elizabeth stepped out of the area and away from the smiths with Cullen beside her. "Thank you, Herald."

"It was the least I could do, Cullen."

"What do the words inlaid on it mean?"

"Beati qui assistunt, et tradetur impius pro corrupto non supplantabuntur gressus ejus: 'Blessed are they who stand before the corrupt and the wicked and do not falter.' That's what Latin looks like when written."

"Thank you," he replied. "You did well, as did Harritt. It's priceless to me."

"Good." She winked. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I am going to plop down and enjoy my book, with some breakfast."

He chuckled. "Spying on me today?"

"As well as Cassandra." She motioned to the woman, saying it a little louder so the Seeker could hear her.

"Not very well if you are telling me." The woman looked back at her.

"Quite the opposite actually. Eventually you are going to go insane. Give it a few moments."

Elizabeth pat Cullen's arm, then stepped a few yards over to the log area, seizing one of Cullen's linens. The item was placed under her head and neck to cushion against the log. After a few lingering moments, she realized this action was a mistake. The cloth smelled intoxicating, the woman trying not to get distracted. Elizabeth finally opened the latest chapter of Varric's story, reading it as she consumed an apple.

After a few minutes of sitting there quietly, a rock hit Elizabeth's boot, making her smile as she continued reading. After a few moments, another. This time she peered over and saw Cassandra staring at her. Sure enough, another hit her, eliciting a giggle.

"I told you it would start to bother you."

"I'd rather you look at me directly and not from your peripheral," the woman replied.

Elizabeth narrowed in on Cassandra, her eyes wide. "How's this?"

"Slightly disturbing."

"You asked for it." Elizabeth laughed.

"Sass." Cassandra tried to hide her amusement. "I expected nothing less."

After a few more minutes, another rock hit Elizabeth's boot, making her chuckle. She returned to reading, the chapter nearly completed when Cullen shuffled over, sitting next to her. Elizabeth leaned her head against his thigh.

"Don't you feel dumber for reading that?"

She looked up at him. "How would you know?"

"I confess that I gave them a try." He shrugged. "Varric should stick to his crime serials; they're better. But still not my idea of great literature."

"Well, get your hands on a copy of 'The Legend of Calenhad.'" She turned back to him.

"You haven't read it yet?"

She shook her head. "No."

"I will have to see if Leliana has people who can get their hands on it."

Elizabeth smiled. "I look forward to reading it."

"Will you stop reading this if I do?"

She chuckled. "Reading, yes."

"Why do I sense a 'but' coming?"

"Varric told me that many copies sold at the beginning, but stopped. He agreed that it isn't his best, but I said I dabble. Now he's recruited me to write the next chapter. If it's good, he's going to print it."

"Please tell me you'll get credited!"

Elizabeth closed the book grasping the linen, placing them both in her lap as she sat beside him on the log.

"I don't want it."

"Your hard work is going into saving his worst serial."

"I'm putting a lot of my personal experiences into the smut. The last thing I need is people knowing the Herald of Andraste wrote naughty literature."

Cullen thought for a moment as he blushed, making her giggle. "It makes sense when you word it like that."

"As it should. But Varric is giving me 75% of the money each chapter earns. But this is all hypothetical. I might not be able to save it. We'll see."

"I've never read any of your work." He shrugged his shoulders. "I wouldn't know."

"Well, I'm not about to suggest the chapter when I write it." She started turning red. "The last thing I need is you knowing… I-I mean, it's natural everyone does it, but… well, you know."

He laughed. "You'll never know because I wouldn't tell you."

"That is kind of an answer already, Commander."

"Not necessarily," he disagreed. "But Varric is going to give me a copy regardless, because you wrote it. Make up some whimsical tale to encourage me to read it."

Elizabeth snorted. "Well, if you do, don't tell me. If you tell me, don't ask questions."

"Deal. But it's not my type of romance, so I doubt I will."

Elizabeth stood up and tossed his linen back at him. "Take this before I curl up in your arms and make things incredibly awkward by sniffing you to death."

"My scent too?"

She shook her head with a sigh. "Yes."

Cullen's right eyebrow rose. "You're giving me more and more ammunition, Trevelyan. It's not like you to get sloppy."

"I blame you!" she retorted. "You play on my fair heart."

"I do my best."

"Yeah well, stop!" she teased.

Cassandra padded over. "Lunch before you leave?"

"Yes." Elizabeth nodded. "I missed breakfast, and I'm starving."

"Josephine has us in the Chantry again." Cassandra held up a parchment.

Elizabeth sauntered toward the Chantry, arm-in-arm with Cassandra. Cullen trailed behind the two women. Cassandra inquired about Cullen's sword as they walked the path to the large building at the center of the small town.