AN I do not own any names or likeness to any character portrayed in this fictional work.

Also, the underlines are supposed to be strike-throughs but I guess the system doesn't use strike-throughs. You'll know when you see them.

Cullen rolled his neck as he exited the command tent. Long meetings made for good sleep. Inquisitor Royoc is now officially a day late as he was closing rifts in the Arbors. And apparently, got distracted. It's not like the men are on a timetable or anything. It's not like the goal right now is to prevent Corypheus from getting to the ruin first. But no, please, keep picking flowers. Perhaps a flower garland will change his mind. Accept himself as one of the Makers beloved.

He breathed and reviewed. Given the location, there are four strong points in the area. And the Venatori believe Corypheus will be there soon. The Inquisitor's inner circle will spearhead the strong points to keep the Venatori back or direct them to the bulk to guard the temple itself. The main body will move at dawn to take the area first. Josephine has volunteered to stay behind to envoy Royoc and the allies and set the Inquisitor on the path.

Cullen clenched his jaw but was forced to agree. They needed someone to fill him in but knew Josephine may not be the best person. He had a better plan. He needed someone who could make Royoc move a little faster. And since she wasn't at the meeting, the job fell to her.

He opened his tent to drop off his notes when he paused. Uthreida looked at him, then his bottle of whiskey she was holding, her water skin in her other hand then smiled guiltily. "I can explain."

"I bet." He placed his notes on a crate that doubled as a table. "You're taking liberties again, dear."

"I know." She sighed and placed the bottle back in his bag.

"Did you already run out?" She tried to speak but didn't. Keeping her eyes averted. He shook his head and approached. "We've talked about this. You need to lessen your dependency on alcohol."

Her shoulders arched as she prepared a defensive counter. "It has significantly lessened than when I first got here."

"But still in control." Her argument died as she looked away. "Show me your hand." She sighed and did as he asked. Cullen noticed a slight tremble. Not enough to cause her to drop a weapon, but enough to where it might create an issue. "I take it you already drank some."

"Aye. Few sips."

"And the fact you're cutting it with water means you've been stealing my supply for how long?" She bit her lips, watching the door. "Utha." He warned.

She sighed. "Few times."

"Why didn't you say anything?"

"You're busy." She stated quickly as if it was a valid argument. "You've got a lot of stress right now and I…didn't want to bother you with this."

"You didn't" he sighed. How can she not understand that her plights were his by now? He shook his head at her. "How long did you go without?"

She shrugged. "Two days. Since the last time I stole your supply."

He smiled and bent to look at her as she looked everywhere but him. "Hey, that's impressive. Don't sell yourself short. You're doing great."

She pulled her hands back and retreated. "Still lack your fortitude."

"A step is still a step. You're doing fine."

She forced a smile not believing him. "I'm sure you have another mosaic to make. I'll leave you to it."

Cullen stepped towards her. "I was on my way to find you, actually."

She looked confused but smiled. "Oh?" She asked with heavy-lidded eyes.

He smiled at her insinuation. "Royoc is late but we will start our assault without him. However, I'd like you to lead him to the temple. Make sure we stay to our timetable." She made a look of disgust at the mission. "Where Royoc is, Corypheus is certain to follow, which means his dragon, which means you. No, you don't have a say in this." She grunted at the orders. "Keep him alive to or in the temple."

Whatever argument she was going to make, she let it go. "Alright. So keep him on track and on time. Got it."

"Thank you. You'll remain here in the main camp with Lady Morrigan" she groaned, "and Josie until he arrives." He pulled the map from his notes. "You are to travel north, following the river. The temple will be here, where I'm stationed."

"Listen for the lions' roar. Got it."

Cullen looked down at her. He wanted to look annoyed but smiled at her tease. "If you can."

She mocked offense as she looked over the map. "What's in the field?"

"The usual."

"Fair. Where are our men stationed on the path?" Cullen pointed at the map in silence at the three stronghold locations along the river. "Alright." She ran through the plan to make sure she understood the mission. "I shall deliver."

He nodded. Holding a hand to her hip as he looked over the plan in total. She stepped closer, reviewing the same map. He looked at her and noticed some dark circles under her eyes. She wasn't resting. "Can I ask you something?"

"Of course."

"Why haven't we shared a tent since we started marching?"

"Commander?" A voice sounded from outside the tent. Uthreida looked at him, waving a hand at her reason. She stepped back and out of his reach.

He tilted his head in honest observation. "Enter."

Captain Overbridge entered with a fresh scroll. "Updated numbers, sir."

"Excellent."

Overbridge looked Uthreida over. "Lady."

"Captain." Uthreida smiled with a salute. "Congratulations."

Overbridge smiled with a slight bow. "Thank you."

Cullen reviewed the report. "The Chevaliers arrived?"

"Yes, sir."

He looked at the numbers and remembered the battle of Raven Rock and Dustlands Claim. "Break them off into even groups. Each team to act as a vanguard for each of our fortified positions."

"Of course, sir." Overbridge reached for the report and he passed it back quickly. She nodded awkwardly. "How's Phillipe working out for you, sir?"

Cullen painted on a smile. "He's, ah, learning."

Overbridge gave a pained look and sighed. "I'm sorry, sir."

"No, no, it's ah…a curve…"

"Who's Phillipe?" Uthreida whispered while leaning into him.

"My steward." She lowered her brows and gave the same question. "You've seen him several times. Usually, has his head ducked when he leaves? Running? On the verge of crying."

"Oh," she said with wide eyes of realization, "I thought he was the local fool?"

"Rather the point," he hissed with a smile at the boy's incompetency. "I think Lady Josephine is actually letting me borrow one of her runners while he figures it out."

Overbridge sighed. "I'm sorry, sir. He came highly recommended. Though, now, it would appear he was recommended to get him out of…a captain's command. I'm sorry, sir."

Cullen shook his head. "It's quite alright. I mean, he gets the important tasks done. I suppose. Do you…have another in mind?" He asked with a hopeful smile.

The Captain smiled and tilt of her head. "I might. He's a bit salty but, I'll ask into him. Make sure he understands what is asked."

"Thank the Maker. I won't lie, I cursed your name for the first few days. Took me a while to figure out how you did everything." She lowered her face with a smile. "Terribly sorry, I'll let you get back." Overbridge gave a salute and exited the tent. Cullen's attention turned back to Uthreida. "What we're we talking about?

"Spending the night in your tent."

Something in her tone made him rub his neck. "Right, there's... Room." He looked at the large tent that was mostly engulfed in crates that she smirked at.

"Aye. Other cots too. That all appear to be claimed."

"What I mean is-"

"Valok, don't start." She stood taller and poised. "You are in a position where you will be bombarded by men and questions and numbers and plans at all hours of the night and day. Further, you need clarity of mind to achieve this. I will not distract you from your mission. This is why I do not come to your tent."

He arched a brow. "You sure? For a minute I thought it would have something to do with being seen with an Andrastian."

She rolled her eyes. "We've discussed this." She placed her hands gently on his hips and leaned in. "Sthun teaches that absence of flesh makes for more zealous and fierce warriors." She looked away in a guilty thought. "Although, the after effects of battle also inspires…rape. It's a balance."

Cullen blinked slowly at her reasoning. A look of disbelief on his face. "Uh," he looked her over slowly.

She sighed deeply. "So, to Sthun, absence is a means to control the men where the rape is a means to break and control the slaves or thralls of losing armies in Atamoria. Equally, the raping armies were seen as breaking their discipline as the warriors fell to hedonism. Under the laws of war of Cryodiil, Alessia, Stendarr, Talos, slavery is no longer legally practiced in the Empire. Therefore, the rape of losing armies is considered Deadric and not allowed in the modern military or the taking of prisoners." All Cullen could do was blink in stunned silence at the woman. She sighed and plastered in a fake smile. "Best not to lose all your strength and focus the night before." She bent her neck to look up at him. Looking smaller in his perception. "Fear not, Commander, I will not break you until the march is complete. With your consent, of course."

"Thank you, I suppose." He smiled and leaned down to her. "So, your ancestors…raped the losers of battles?"

"No, it was considered dishonorable to rape a worthy warrior. The Nords who raided the other villages' for profit or resources would rape the ones who didn't fight. Whether in their homes or the ones who marched with the opposing army and claimed them as slaves. But under Imperial law, the practice has been outlawed."

"Which?" She tilted her head confused. "The slavery or raping?"

"Ah" she smiled awkwardly, "Both."

"Right. So, let's pretend your warriors went to war with Thedas. In their victory, would they" he rolled a hand to ask the question.

"Now, no. If we were still in Atamoria or before Skyrim fell into Imperial rule, probably."

Cullen took a step back in disgust. "You people are barbaric."

She dropped her jaw in offense. "And what of your Avvaar, eh? Are they not your ancestors who did the same?"

"That's unfair." He held up a warning finger. "That's not who we are anymore."

"Neither are we." He clicked his jaw shut. "Andraste fought to end it, aye? So did Saint Alessia." He pursed his lips at her. Not knowing how to complete his argument that she smiled at. "I will admit, there is a commonality between stress and procreation. But on the battlefield, that stress needs to be diverted to physical strength training rather than" she looked over him slowly, "other pleasurable exercises." Cullen tilted his head at her trying to hide his smile from things he already knew but was still enjoying her interpretation. "Besides, even Mara has stated that children born in peace and love tend to fare better than those born of war. King Harold has a proverb that says something along the lines of 'even a pup will grow into a wolf and kill the hold if not controlled.' The moral is rape aids no war nor warrior. But willful absence can focus the group. Ergo, in accordance with my gods, you will spend your night's cold. And alone." She looked him over again and smirked coyly. "For now."

He grunted and let it go. Trying to hide the heat on his face. Knowing she was right and letting the whispers get to him again. He sucked his teeth and let her win this one. "There are days I hate you." She winked after laughing at him. His hand went to the small of her back and tasted her lips. Both smiling at their teasing.

"Commander." A second voice he didn't recognize announced from outside the tent.

She took a step back and with a smirk. "Commander. If that is all," She gave a bow. "I'll prepare for tomorrow's movements."

He let her go with a smile as the other Captain entered. Cullen took a deep breath and prepared for the next few hours of impromptu meetings.

Xxx

Uthreida tilted her head as Royoc approached. He took in her full armor, thin visor, and golden false eyes. "Afternoon, Inquisitor." She didn't try to hide the acrimony in her voice. A tone Sera picked up on instantly and smirked. Cassandra arched an unimpressed brow. "I am to guide you through the jungle to ensure you make it to the temple. Unharmed." She watched as Royocs polite smile hid the fact he swallowed something back. She placed her hands on the pommel of her weapons. "After all, wherever you go, Corypheus and his little pet are sure to follow. Shall we. It's a treacherous road, and your one skill would be a tragedy to lose." He jutted his jaw at her and Solas hid his smile behind his hand.

Morrigan only rolled her eyes. "Lead on then." The Hagraven demanded.

Royoc looked behind him. "Excuse me, I must speak to Josie-"

Uthreida unsheathed her axe and hooked his throat back to her. Preventing him from seeing, touching, or speaking to her. Royoc clenched his hand as he was pulled to Uthreida. "Roads this way, Inquisitor." She jutted a thumb over her shoulder. Slowly unhooking him, and dragging the point of her axe down his chest. "Let's move."

She waved a hand for them to start. Slapping the flat of her axe against his ass as Royoc passed. She kept to the rear as they walked down the side of the hill. Royoc tapped Solas on the chest to take the lead. He gave a nod and jogged forward. Uthreida arched a brow and watched the elf work. He would use paralysis trap and fire traps for the Red Templars that were entrenched in a battle with other Soldiers. Each gave a hail to the Empire as they passed. Uthreida took the lead as they came to the river.

"I hear fighting ahead," Royoc stated as he drew his double hefted blade.

Uthreida arched an annoyed brow. The area is filled with skirmishes. She stepped to the side to get a look of the contact to-

Royoc roared and ran into battle. She pursed her lips and let him go. She's here for the dragon. Not him. She leaned against a tree and waited for the skirmish between him and three opponents.

Cassandra shield bashed a Red Templar while Royoc delivered the killing blow.

Two.

Solas' ice trap coupled with Seras' powerful bow, shattered the Templar.

One.

Solas moved up while Sera moved right to pincer the attacker and get shots from the rear while the Templar threw blow after blow into Cassandra's shield to bring her down to a knee. Royoc reared back and slammed his sword into the earth so hard it may as well have caused a fissure.

Uthreida picked herself off the tree and kept walking to cross the river while the other four panted in a breath. "Let's move."

Royoc looked at her as she walked easily. He bent over and panted. "Where in the bloody void were you?"

"Contract says dragons. Let's go." She kept walking and didn't wait for them to catch up.

Royoc chuffed as he approached her from the rear. She kept her shield spell on her mind as he jogged. "I thought you said you were to guide us."

"I am." She pointed ahead.

"Unharmed?"

"Unharmed. Alive. Same difference."

He snorted again and walked in front of her. Leading. She smirked and took a leisurely pace behind him.

Uthreida pulled him back as he wondered too far ahead. A Templar stood sentry on a bridge. Uthreida pointed to Sera at the one. The elf dropped to a knee and lined up her shot.

The arrow loosed and the Soldier fell off the bridge and into the water below. "On guard." Uthreida bellowed as he drew her axe and blade. The others started their attack on the bridge but she saw movement and went low. A Templar had appeared below. He pulled back, roaring to the skies as he closed in. Her axe moved to wound his unarmored thigh as her blade went to his chest. He rushed forward and she spun. Using her sword to take out his knee from the rear and her axe to his neck. His half helmet hit the stone wall as he slid down. The tip of her blade stabbed into his chest and she walked back up the hill to the team. Morrigan sent the final fireball in the Templar. As if like instinct, Sera and Royoc bent over the bodies to loot. She grabbed both by the collar and dragged them. "On a timetable."

"Oi"

"Let's move." She dragged them to the other side of the water hole and noticed more Soldiers on the bridges and lake. She elbowed Royoc in the chest. She pointed to those on the ground. She pulled Sera with her and took the broken bridge that led her to the high ground. Solas' trap went off as they reached the top. Uthreida ordered Sera to shoot across the bridge and moved. "Wild na kest." She drew her blade across the back of the warden and slammed her axe in the soft, unprotected shoulder as they fell. Moving to her next target. She jumped from her bridge and moved to the next while the team distracted them. Running up, she reared her axe back while holding her sword in defense across her chest. The warden archer turned as her axe dropped into his helmet. She shoved him off the bridge. She pulled back the back on the axe and threw it. The head hit the leg of the other warden and making them fall over. She ran, slamming her blade into their neck. Her free hand called telekinesis to pick up the axe and move. Looking at the scene, Cassandra's war cry indicated the skirmish was complete. And again, Royoc doubled back.

Uthreida jumped from the bridge and grabbed him by the belt. "Move."

He shoved her arm. She turned in a second with a hand around his throat and a thumb pointed at his eye. His inhale of surprise made him stagger back and fall. Cassandra stepped forward protectively. Uthreida snorted at the man. "I said move." She called telekinesis again, wrapping it around his breastplate and ripped it back to bring him into a standing position. "Well?" She pointed both for them to walk. Royoc looked her over with a sneer on his lips. He growled and shuffled off in the water. Uthreida looked at the other four to keep them moving. Solas smirked as he approached. "How did-"

She turned her back and followed.

"Oi," Sera called. "They wardens."

"The last of the enslaved," Royoc commented.

"Probably," Uthreida said as she shoved Royoc to move faster.

She took lead and kept looking over her shoulders. They climbed down a hill in what was apparently an easy pace as Sera and Cassandra had a conversation. They came to a river again where Inquisition Soldiers were fighting Red Templars. Royoc lifted his blade. Uthreida pulled him back. "That way."

"Out. Of my way." He growled and shoved her back.

She snarled and called the Thu'um. "Kyne." He took a quick inhale of peace. "That way." She shoved him towards it. But he diverged and ran down the hill. "Wild na kest." Uthreida was in the river and beat him to it. The Templar raised his shield and she kept her axe on it. He raised his sword to attack and she went for his under arm. His sword fell without as much momentum as she pulled her axe back and aimed for the throat. She missed, hitting the armor. She pulled the blade back and defended against his shield. She took two quick steps back to avoid the bash and found her opening. She dropped the axe low and backhanded up his crotch. The Templar gave a scream as her sword slashed at his face. The blood pooled the water as she turned to see and another standing further off lining up a shot for her. "Fos, ro dah."

The Templar slammed into the trees where the Inquisition Soldiers finished him off. She looked back at Royoc who had just reached the river bank. "That way." She pointed with her axe. She turned to see the Templar still slumped in the water and smirked. The fun sparring with Cullen on the convoy proved beneficial.

She exited the river, her boots now sloshing in water and squelched when she stepped. Great.

She and Royoc made it upriver to find an encampment. She pulled Cassandra back who commented on the presence of Red Templars. Uthreida waved Sera up and asked for a vile of smoke. Uthreida pointed at the archers and gave her a wink. Sera licked her teeth in anticipation. "You stay here, I'll go high." Both slammed the smoke bombs down and she crouched low. She ran up the side of the hill as much as her muffle enchantment allowed. Sera got the first shot off to the nearest and Uthreida snuck behind the second archer. She used the axe to take out their knees as they fell, her axe and sword over the Templars throat and pulled. The red mist blocked her view of the path as the Templars screamed at her presence.

She felt the electric pull of Solas' trap. Two Templars ran up the hill with their swords raised. She smirked. "Fos, ro da."

The two Templars were sent hurling back and hitting trees along the way. Uthreida walked her way back to the team who were entrenched with the rest.

"Oi, they got Elfy."

Uthreida only arched a brow and looked at the scene as Royoc was being assaulted on two sides and Cassandra held her shield up, unable to get in an attack. Uthreida rolled her eyes. She slammed her axe into the rear leg of the one attacking Cassandra allowing her to take the kill. One of Royoc's Templars saw her and moved to attack. "Zun Haal Viik," The Templar ceased his attack as his weapons were ripped from his hands and stood confused. She slid the tip of her blade into his throat and kept walking. The body fell behind her and she watch Royoc try to defend against the very large Templar that could've been mistaken for a Nord.

Cassandra huffed and looked at her. "Move. The Inquisitor needs help."

Uthreida pursed her lips and sighed. Supposing she was right. Cassandra ran ahead of her and assaulted the larger Templar again. Striking at his armor. Uthreida stepped on the other side to his rear as he lashed at Cassandra to be attacked by Royoc. Uthreida grabbed the Templar by his back plate and kicked his knee to make him buckle. The Templars shield prevented him from falling but Uthreida put everything she had into keeping him down and exposed. Royoc's blade slammed into his side and the man gave a grunt. He released his sword to reach behind him for her hands. She removed her hand called for Stenddar's light. Throwing her hand over his face as he screamed at his blindness. She rolled off and let Cassandra take the final blow.

Uthreida called telekinesis to her blades and caught them one at a time to holster them. Her eyes went to Royoc. "Keep moving."

"Solas."

"Brave mer. Keep moving."

"He's up" Sera called.

Uthreida looked over to see the bald elf holding his head. Great. "Let's move." She took lead again and headed them down a hill where the main encampment was waiting. She looked across the waters of the pool and saw a group of Inquisition Soldiers defending against a gigantic red crystal… thing. She lowered her brows at the scene as they approached. On either side, more red Templars flanked the Inquisition. "Flank right." She called to the group.

"Ice magic on the behemoth." Solas called to Morrigan. When everyone was within range. An ice trap was sprung on the large crystal thing and Uthreida felt the bile rise in her throat as she approached. Her steps faltered as she looked at it. By the Nine. It was pure Krass. "Liz Slen Nus." She called. Pushing through the disgust of the thing as her axe slammed into its leg and caused it to fall off balance. She took a step back as it fell to its knees. She looked at it. No weakness. No skin, no flesh, no man inside just-

A cry of war caught her attention and she moved to help the others where she could. She flanked left and killed the smaller red templars. Looking for flesh and body. Her heart rate rose as the orange blended into the red as their hand went up in surrender. Releasing her blade mid-strike as she looked at the Soldier before her. Orange. Eye. Inquisition. Uthreida took a step back breathing through the haze. The blood lust. She looked and found her blade glittering under the waters. The sounds of battle ceased and she turned to find Royoc. Her eyes went back to the soldier, then at her feet at another Inquisition fallen soldier. She nodded to the Soldier and moved.

"Regroup."

She looked over at the familiar voice and red fur capped shoulders. He pointed to a temple to the north while speaking to Royoc. Uthreida met him and lifted her visor. Her eyes dropped to his arms and smirked in appreciation. Cullen turned to face her. "Nice chain mail, Commander."

He lifted his arm to inspect the shirt she bought him. "My wife spoils me."

"Sounds like a keeper." She gave a wink and tapped his chest plate. "Don't die."

He grabbed her arm before she could walk off. His face was serious as he looked down at her. He paused before he spoke and made an awkward expression as if he tried to think of something to say but running out of time. "Don't also die."

She snorted quickly. "Poetic. I'm carving that on your urn."

He rolled his eyes as he looked over his men. "Stay safe."

"If you wanted safe, Valok, you should've married a kitchen girl." She lowered her visor and moved to catch up with Royoc.

"I didn't have a-" Cullen grunted when she was out of range.

She ran up the stairs, grabbed a few health potions from the supply, and ran after Royoc into the dark tunnel.

"There," Morrigan called. "That must be the temple."

Uthreida sprinted past her to catch up to the front as the darkness of the tunnel lead out into the light. They slowed as they approached. Uthreida noticed the corpses of Red Templars at her feet first, then the aged trees in the distance followed by a large statue to the west. Royoc pulled her down and she saw what he did.

Morrigan and Royoc moved closer to the banister and Uthreida followed. She watched as a mer shouted to a group of six humans, and one grotesquely tall, bare-chested man. Uthreida looked at the man and knew something was wrong with him. She looked at the other six and stated to formulate a plan of how to attack.

"Well of Sorrows?" Royoc whispered.

An electrical storm should keep their heads down. And kill her own team. She needed a better plan. Cyclone should disorientate them long enough to allow her access. The large man moved forward and the pillars on the side of the bridge started to glow.

Uthreida watched, seeing the old runs come to life of protection as they encased the man in light. He lifted the mer off the ground and she raised her brow at the display of strength and light.

The pillars blasted back and she felt the force of old magic wash over her. Holding up a hand to protect her eyes from the light. When the blinding and ringing passed, she looked over the bridge to see everyone was pushed back or killed except for the large man who was disintegrated on the spot.

She tilted her head with a smile. Old magics. She looked at the pillars and her smile dropped. It was a one-time enchantment given the blast marks on the pillars.

Royoc stood slowly and walked down the stairs cautiously. Uthreida took the cue and jumped over the banister. She landed with heat in her feet as she approached the group of Templars and Wardens. She drew her blade and stabbed the end into throats as she passed. Royoc threw up his arms in question. She tilted her own head in question. Duh. Undead. Royoc walked to the bridge as she moved on with the cleanup work. The sound of twitching metal caught her attention on the other side. She looked up to see a Warden kneeling. Holding his insides. Royoc turned with a disgusted look. Uthreida pulled her head back and held her blade with both hands. A warning ringing in her skull at the Warden and dread in her stomach.

The warden's body started to convulse in an unnatural pattern. She felt the bile of the krass return in her throat. "That ah? That normal? Here?"

The Warden threw his head back and a vomited spew of blood emerged from his mouth like a fucked up water fountain. The spew turned into a cloud of black smoke as his body was ripped open. Uthreida convulsed forward at a gag.

"It cannot be," Morrigan stated.

An arm broke free from the body and Uthreida took a step back. Krass. The warning of King Alistair. When the archdemon dies, its soul is taken into the closest with the corruption. This was a demon.

"Across the bridge," Royoc ordered as he turned. "Now."

Uthreida had no idea what it was, but equal parts fear and sickness filled her and she turned and ran. She ran, not looking behind her. Needing distance from the corruption. The familiar sound of a dragon's roar made her groan in annoyance. "The fuck was that?" She asked anyone who would listen.

"Cory-puissant" Sera shouted as they ran. A shadow passed them from above in the shape of a dragon. "That's you, yea?"

"Aye. That's me." Uthreida looked to the sky to find the Niithilin as they closed in on the doors. "Seal the doors." She shouted to them. Royoc was the first to the end and did just that as the dragon flew in behind her. Uthreida stopped and took a deep breath. Wait stop- think, Corypheus is on the other side. The dragon took a breath and roared. "Feim Zii Gron"

Uthreida held her arms up to protect herself from the dragon attack. She took a breath and looked up. She was encased in red crystals. She moved her arms from her face and took a few steps to get out of it. She was out of the red lyrium. She threw her arms up in victory. Thanking the gods that worked.

The dragon huffed and landed on the other side of the bridge. Uthreida remembered what she was supposed to be doing.

She smiled as she approached the dragon. Knowing the dragon can't hurt her in this form. The dragon leaned forward and snapped at her. Uthreida kept her approach ignoring the instinct to flinch at her teeth. The dragon stepped back and roared at her. Not speaking. A movement to the right caught her attention as the large man appeared. Floating on the bridge. He landed and looked at her. She wanted to throw up again. This seven or eight-foot-tall grotesque…thing…with red lyrium literally growing out of it, watched her.

Its nose snarled as he walked to her. "A new trick from the Inquisition?" Its deep voice boomed over her.

This is Corypheus? This is the feared dragon priest? The priests of home were at least human. This thing was…eww. Between his visible ribs and elongated form as a mockery of mortals. He reached a hand to grab her and was only met with air. Uthreida didn't even try to bother swatting away his hand as she knew it would end the spell.

He looked at the temple then at her. Then his dragon took another step away from her. "You are the dragon slayer?"

Unsure of what to do, she swallowed her fear and disgust and placed on some bravado. She bowed deeply to the priest. He stepped towards her again and she took a step to the dragon who snapped again.

"How did you do this?"

She wanted to play. She wanted to test the limits of his immortality. She looked at the dragon. He wasn't her target. She stepped off to the dragon. Her thu'um was wearing off as the dragon stepped back again. She ran. The dragon called its thu'um as she ran through the fire at it.

Uthreida drew her blades and clawed, stabbed, and forced her way on the back of the dragon. The thu'um broke at the first strike off as Corypheus came closer to her. "Gol Hah Dov" She yelled at the dragon as Corypheus floated to her. The dragon's resistance broke quicker this time as Corypheus curled in pain and backed off. She backhanded her axe to keep him back. She lowered her brows as he pulled way in pain that she didn't cause. How? "Fly!"

The dragon took off leaving Corypheus behind. "Circle above." She called to it. She watched as Corypheus tried to catch up but lacked the strength. He gave up and pressed his assault on the ruin. Niithilin circled again and landed to the east of the ruin in a small clearing away from the battles.

Uthreida vaulted off and rolled. Niithilin opened her maw and took a breath "Fos ro dah."

Her jaw snapped shut as her thu'um was canceled. "Niithilin," Uthreida called to it. The dragon circled her. Uthreida drew her blades for the dragon. Ready to fight if she had to. But the sickness of the krass was making her weak. "Zu'u dovikiin. You know my name. My title. As I know you. Speak in your tongue, sister. What has that monster done to you?"

The dragon snarled and snapped again. Uthreida jumped back. "Speak. Let me help you."

Niithilin snarled again and took a step back. Her stomach convulsed again as if ready to vomit. "Taken soul."

Uthreida blinked. What? And yet she still lives? "How?"

"Forced. Consumed." She choked again. Uthreida looked at the black dragon and saw the spikes of the red lyrium in her form. "Changed." She coughed. "Slave." Niithilin shook her head. "Kill."

"Niithilin. I want to help. But-" she looked at the dragon again. "I don't know how."

"Kill." She roared. Throwing her head to the sky and reared back. Her forepaws slammed into the ground.

Uthreida swallowed. Her fear of taking the taint into herself still present on her mind. The melding. If Corypheus controls the blight, he'll control her. Slave. "You're infected with the krass. Your soul will meld with mine. I will become-"

She growled and ran at her. Uthreida reared her weapons back and readied. Her mouth opened wide and Uthreida waited. She rolled and dodged. Niithilin swooped at her but her fore limbs were too short. "Where do you reside?" The dragon roared again. "Why does he want more dragons?" She ran at her and Uthreida slid her blade across her side and backed off. "How did he do this?"

She roared to heaven and caused her ears to ring. Uthreida wanted to remove her helmet to cover her ears but saw an opening.

No. Don't.

"What did he do?" Niithilin opened her mouth to attack. "Yol vobein krass."

The dragon became engulfed in a white fire from the cleansing shout. Panic and fear in Niithilins eyes as she looked at Uthreida. She reared back to stamp it out. In the flames, Uthreida noticed her black scales turned purple. She took a step back. Watching the dragon circle to put the flames out. Flapping her wings as she was cleansed. The dragon's tail flew by her and she had to roll on her stomach to avoid it. She gave a howl to the sky as she was burned alive. Uthreida took another step back. Not knowing how to douse the flames. Or what she was thinking.

She watched as the white flames started to die down to reveal the purple scales of the dragon. Niithilin turned to look at Uthreida. But her once red eyes were yellow. Niithilin stamped a foot and bowed. "It's receding." She said. "But I still feel it. Trying to take back control."

Uthreida stepped forward to the clean dragon. "Niithilin?"

She shook her head. "Zu'u Yolkahpraan."

Uthreida nodded to the beast. "Drem yol lok, "she stepped back. "Please. What did he do to you?"

A look of pain and embarrassment crossed her features. "He captured me. Forced me to eat the krass. And then, forced a mortal soul into me."

Uthreida drew her brows. That's unheard of. "How?"

"Took my mind. Forced me to accept. Please" she squeezed from a tightening throat, "it's coming back. I am not a slave. Kill me. As a free dragon. Dovahkiin, please."

She shook her head. She needed more information. "How do I cleanse you?"

"The three thu'ums, combined. Please."

"Where is he located? Where are his headquarters?" Uthreida watched as the purple scales turned back to black. Moving like a black liquid from her core to her paws and wings. She saw her yellowed eyes of disappointment. "How do I stop this?"

Yolkahpraan sighed, succumbing to the taint. "You can't."

The blackness taking over her eyes and in a blink, they were red again. The black dragon looked down at her. And growled. Uthreida flipped her blade. So much for answers. The dragon moved to attack. She got low, and cut Niithilins side again. Dragging the point of her axe across her soft underbelly. The beard not catching any scales. She spun. Using the axe to sever the tendon in her rear leg. She growled in pain but spun to get away. Uthreida now stood face to face as she inhaled. "Jorr Zah Frul."

The white mist surrounded Niithilins wings but she shook it off.

Damnit. Idiot.

The dragon came at her and she was ready. Her massive forepaw stretched out to her and Uthreida sliced. The talons grabbed her and the wind was knocked out of Uthreida. Her stomach dropped as the dragon took to the sky. Uthreida looked down and was filled with trepidation at the height. Please don't drop. Don't drop.

The talons loosened and Uthreida screamed.

She watched the land grow closer and closer to her. Fear and panic set in as all she could hear was the deafening sound of wind passing her ears. This is how she died?

Think. Her brain vaulted as a tree was growing dangerously close. She shut her eyes and braced. "Feim Zii Gron."

Uthreida hit the tree, fell through each of the braches and the thick trunk, and rolled. Passing through so much brush and trees. She opened her eyes for a second and saw the green whirl around her in an almost slow motion as a thick tree came into view. She slammed her eyes shut and tucked tighter into a ball. And waited for the impact. She wondered if she was ever going to stop rolling.

The inertia finally stopped and she laid on her side. Still clutching herself into a ball. The fear of falling and dying before her that it took her a moment to come out of it. The sound of wind was still in her ears. She finally forced herself to breathe and relaxed slightly. Feeling the ground beneath her. She opened her eyes hesitantly. Still in her spirit form. She breathed. She was alive. She looked at her hands and clenched them. Weapons? Where are her weapons? She sat up quickly to look for them. She scrambled back up a hill and saw the glitter of metal. Her axe. She smiled as she looked at it. The thu'um wearing off as she bent to pick it up. Divines above. If nothing else, hopefully, this axe will be in her hands the day she died. She looked up the hill she rolled down. The dragon blade had to be on this hill. She searched. Trying to guess her trajectory when she passed through trees and branches as a spirit form. She reached the top of the hill and saw the river. And a smile crossed her face. She looked to the heavens. "Thank you, Talos."

Weapons secured. Alive, and wet trousers later. She walked through the forest. The sounds of battle caught her attention. The Red Templars were still attacking. Uthreida got low and watched from the brush. She looked over to see a small ravine that lead to a building. The temple. Cullen.

While she was excited, it fell somewhat when he would ask where the dragon was.

She took a deep breath and looked at the banks. Three of the lyrium giants had come in.

Her heart stopped. She shook her head and swallowed back her fear. She stood from her position and jumped into the river. She drew her axe as she walked. She called telekinesis to her as she grabbed a shield that was left on the side of the field. Victory or Sovngarde. A Red Templar saw her approach and turned to her. Running with a raised sword. She used the rim of the shield to punch him back and slammed her axe into his helmet and kept walking. She came to the center of the ravine and took a deep breath. "Fo Krah Diin." The area became as cold as the north winds surrounded the giants and the Soldiers. She began to hack at the rear of the giants until its knee buckled and moved to the next. Taking out their knees and Red Templars that stood against her. The thu'um dissipated and she looked at the field. A panicked shrill rang over the field. "Commander." Uthreida turned her head to the shout and ran.

She found two Soldiers hoisting Cullen up the steps of the temple. Setting him down on the steps. Gods no. Mara, no. Not again. She ran to him and dropped her weapons and bag. "What happened?" She asked the Soldier who was looking over the field. "Templar. Red Templar. He took the blow for me and- and kept going and-" She ran her hands over him to find the wound. "He killed him and then-" She removed her helmet and listened to Cullen's breathing. Fractured rib. His breathing. Pierced lung. "Is he-"

She looked at Cullens face and noticed he was without a helmet. Cuts and bruises had already formed on his face. She looked to the Soldier. "You." She pointed to the archer, "get back in there. You, my pack. Left lower pocket. White vial."

She ran her hands down his arms and found no wound. His leg. His trouser leg was soaked in blood. Gods.

"This one?" She looked up to see a small vial.

"Bigger. Wide base." She took her knife and cut a portion of the banner to create a bandage for his leg. She secured the square knot over the wound. It should hold for now.

"This one?"

"That's the same one."

"There's a lot of vials.

"Hurry up." She looked over at the field and saw the men were breaking formation. "By the- Right flank," she shouted to the men. "Right flank. Shield wall."

She undid the buckles on his chest to get to his ribs. Her fingers pressed until she felt it. His rib had pierced his lung.

"This one?" He held up the White Phial and she snatched it from him. "Hold his head." She looked over and saw they were breaking again as a new swarm of Red Templars approached. "Regroup, shield wall."

She pulled the stopper and slapped Cullen a few times. "Wake up." His golden eyes flicked and he smirked weakly. "Aye. Drink." She held the Phial over his lips and poured it down slowly. She looked at the field as the men were falling. She grit her teeth. "Fo Krah Diin." She watched as the area became encased in ice. Cullen coughed and she pulled back. She looked down and he weakly reached for his side. She shook the bottle. Some left. "Keep drinking." She placed the bottle back to his lips as she looked at the field. The Templars are breaking through. "Archers left flank." She grabbed her knife. "Red vial." The soldier turned and held up three. "Left." She placed the stopper back in the Phial and passed it back taking the red. Noticing it was poison. Threw it over her shoulder. "My left. The other left." The soldier juggled the vials and passed her the right one this time. She used her teeth to remove the cork and poured the health potion on the blade. She undid the buckle on his gorget to give her access. She cut his shirt and gently stabbed his chest. Cullen tried to sit up. "Restrain him."

"What are you doing?" The Soldier asked with a shrill of concern.

"He has a punctured lung. Hold him down."

"Get off" he tried to fight back as Uthreida and the soldier held him down.

"He needs another opening or he won't make it." She straddled his hips to keep him down while the soldier held down his shoulders. She took the blade in both hands and controlled the pressure to make sure it didn't go too far. Moving slowly. Listening to his breathing. She heard the wet sound of air and pulled the blade back. Cullen took a deep breath. His eyes rolled back and fell unconscious.

His head rolled and she noticed three new scratches on the side of his face. She smirked and shook her head. Leave it to him to exit a fight prettier than when he went in.

She cut another bandage and looked at the field. The Soldier had slain the final Templar and was cheering. "Regroup." She called. They turned to see her sitting on the commander's lap. Not awkward. "Archers, get to that ridge. Shield wall. Prepare for the next wave. Bring me the wounded."

She placed the bandage on the wound on his chest. Now to deal with the problem. "Blue vial. Big." The soldier moved. She placed her fingers on the broken rib.

"Incoming."

She looked over to see Venatori now with the Red Templars as they approached. The soldier held up the vial and she took it. She called healing but stopped. She needed to pull his rib from his lung. How does she do this? "How do I do this?" The Soldier shrugged with a face to match. "Think." She had half an idea and didn't know if it would work. With a breath, she focused on her telekinesis. Using her thumb, she concentrated. Pulling the broken rib back ever so slightly. She moved a thumb to know when it was aligned. She pulled gently. The sound of battle. Her heart in her ears, the taste of blood on her tongue. There was an odd crunch as the bones met under her thumb. She had no idea if it was right or would set right. He needed a healer. A proper healer. She cast healing and prayed it was enough. Her hands to his chest she looked to the field. They're holding. Good.

She looked at her hands and felt her magic drain quickly. She downed the magicka potion without tasting it and tried again. Sending more magic into his lung. "Get me another. Blue."

She looked at the field and pulled herself down to check the wound on his outer thigh. Gods damn the stubborn ones. He had tassets to protect – agh, what good is it now. She swallowed the vile from the Soldier and downed it. No major artery but still enough damage. She cast healing in his leg. She just needed enough to stop the bleeding. Just enough. Kyne, please let this be enough. She looked at him and swallowed hard as she hoped she knew what she was doing.

She looked at the field and saw the final Venatori fall into the water. The men regrouped and waited. Good, their learning.

Her heart was in her throat as blood still seeped from the wound. She bit back her lips. She knew too much healing at once can be detrimental. When her magicka failed. She knew she should stop. But he was bleeding. She squeezed her eyes quickly and retied the bandage over the wound. Her chin quivered as she questioned if it was enough. Knowing she was killing him by doing this. Weak fuses to start the process. "Talos, Shore, Sthun, keep him safe." She threw her helmet over his head. Tears stung the back of her eyes. She moved to her pack. She pulled out four more vials. "Stay with him. If he seems to get worse, give him one of these." She passed him the four health potions. "Who's the strongest here?"

"Jameson." He pointed to a Sargent that was keeping his men in line.

"Jameson." She bellowed to the Soldier. He turned and ran to them. She moved and brought Cullen to his feet. "He needs a proper healer. Take two Soldiers with you and take him back to base camp." Jameson removed his kite shield and spun it so Cullen rested against it. She grabbed the Soldier by the gorget and pulled him down. "Look at me." The Sargent did and she hoped it was a justified rage in her eyes and not a woman's desperate plea, "if he doesn't make it to camp, you won't live to see moons. Understood?"

"Hey" a Redguard in orange approached the situation. "How's the Commander?"

"Two on me," Jameson called to his men.

Uthreida addressed the officer. "He needs a healer. Sergeant is taking two to-"

"I need men."

She smiled. "You have me."

Xxx

Uthreida made it back to camp. Thoroughly sore. Thoroughly exhausted. And her throat was thoroughly hoarse. As she entered, ignoring the celebratory cheering of the men. Her eyes were drawn to the medical tents. Clenching her jaw. Not knowing if she had the strength to see him. But her feet carried her nonetheless. She tried to look passive as she entered. Taking in the cots of the sleeping wounded or being treated by mages and chantry sisters alike. He wasn't in this one.

Let it be a sign. She couldn't do it. She couldn't see him weak.

She pulled the flap of another tent and looked. The same scene greeting her again. And again, he wasn't in sight.

She stepped out and saw the final tent. He was in that one. Her jaw clenched as she looked at it. Scared to know if she wasn't enough. If what she did only harmed him more. Scared to see him.

She dropped her eyes and clenched her fists. She had to know. And she needed her helmet back, right? That's a good excuse, right? He is her husband. She is expected to make an appearance. Right?

But as she looked at the tent. She felt afraid. Uncertainty filling her core. And guilt pulled in her heart. What if it wasn't enough? What if that Soldier never made it? What if he's still in the field? What if he- she took a deep breath to fight the tears at the last thought. He's too stubborn to die. Sthun wouldn't let him. Right?

She stepped to it. Pulling the flap back and was face to face with Liliana. The spymaster looked her over and arched a brow. Her face revealed nothing. "Lady Utha?" Josephine called from within. Liliana kept her cold gaze on Uthreida and the slayer lowered her eyes. "Please. Come."

Liliana stepped aside to let her enter. But her feet were rooted to the ground. She couldn't move. The knifes edge of unknowing is more comforting than the truth. She blinked back the tears quickly and forced her feet forward.

She entered the tent and saw a group of soldiers and advisors standing around a single cot even as more cots filled the tent. But she dared not look. Fear racking her heart as she forced her eyes to stay level and not see him. All eyes turned to her and she had to breathe the fear out of her chest. "Lady." Josephine appeared next to her. "He's-"

Uthreida growled at her. Scared of what she would say or how Uthreida would respond to either statement. Her eyes went back to the advisors. Watching each of them watching her. She looked to the Soldiers who lowered their heads to her. Jameson gave a single nod to show he completed his mission.

She took a single breath of courage. And looked down. A blanket was pulled up his stomach. Blood-stained bandages wrapped around his chest to hold the rib. A bandage over the wound she made. A long bloodied bandage on his exposed leg. His trousers were cut and removed to allow access to the wound. His face held more bandages to cover the cuts on his face. The bruising around his jaw and eye. His hair was a right mess even for him. Sweat sheening his skin. An infection. Or poison. His breathing was normal. Not deep like sleep. But not shallow either. His pendant of Andraste placed delicately over his heart. He lived. Thank the gods, he lived.

She clenched her jaw to show no emotions on her face. Forcing her chin to stop quivering. Breathing to fight the tears of joy she wanted and the gasp of disgust that these slack jawed, rubber necking ingrates just stood over him. Looking at the blood-stained bandages. Helplessness clutched at her throat. Unable to do a damn thing and not knowing what should be done. Forced to watch him passively as he alone had to fight for his life. He is touched by Sthun. Get him some clean fucking bandages and some space. Standing over the wounded like Bone Hawkes awaiting a meal. So eager to watch him fall so they may rise in his work. Waiting for his final breath.

She looked at his weakened form, knowing there was nothing more she could do. The sisters and healers had this under control. Hoping Josephine would be enough to sway them not to kill him as he slept. She wanted to wait with him. To hold him. To embrace the silence these people were sharing. But how would it look if she did? How would it look if the Commander's wife shouted them out. How would it look if his wife lost control of her facilities at the sight of his wounded form? And how much control would Liliana take from such a scene. She looked over and saw her helmet on the stack of his armor. She stepped to it. Retrieving her helmet, and turned. She did what she could, right? Did it help?

She left the tent with her face exposed. It would do no one any good to see her blubber like a-

She didn't know. Child. She guessed.

He's alive. That's all she needed to know now. He's alive.

Footsteps fell in behind her and she turned to see Liliana following her. She paused and waited for the spymaster to catch up. Her older eyes watched her as she guided Uthreida to a command tent.

Liliana snapped and jutted a thumb behind her. The agents, soldiers, and generals all exited in a silent formation at her order. Uthreida caught Liliana's cold eyes on her as she poured the wine.

She offered Uthreida a cup and sat at a table. Liliana took a breath. "I suppose we have you to thank. For saving the Commander." Uthreida looked away from the exhausted archer. "And for holding the line. An officer said you held the keep's entrance when you ordered Cullen out."

Uthreida sipped the wine in silence, forcing the image of his wounded body under her as she healed to the best of her capabilities. Fear reached into her throat and made her thu'ums stronger against the Red Templars. "Is he-" she clenched her jaw, remembering who she was speaking to. Liliana arched a single brow. Uthreida realized she had already given away too much and finished. "Is he going to make it?"

"They believe so."

"Will he be lame?

She paused before she spoke. "The wound is deep, but they noticed a significant healing by the time he arrived." Uthreida nodded slowly. "Whatever you did saved his life." Uthreida let the silence of the room fill her. A sense of joy was wrapped in dread. He was alive, but to what extent? "So," Liliana placed the cup on the table. "You failed to slay the dragon." Liliana's voice was low. "Again."

Uthreida looked at the wine in her cup with a jutted jaw. She was right. But it still stung. Like maybe she wasn't the person for this job. That her contract will go unfilled because she was afraid of taking the krass and becoming a slave like the other dragons of this land. Uthreida gave an indifferent gesture as she swallowed the liquid.

Liliana leaned back in her chair to study Uthreida. "What happened?"

Uthreida arched an annoyed brow at the woman. She was too exhausted for this. Fuck it. "Well, it's not like I can lie to you." She pulled a second chair and sat opposite her. "We came to the opening of the temple. Corypheus was there. He set off some explosion. And somehow, reincarnated himself from the blood of a warden. Pulling himself from its body. We ran. Dragon showed up. Royoc and the group entered the temple and I stayed behind to face the dragon. I went into spirit form. Corypheus saw me. I saw him. I may have thrown up a wee bit. I climbed on the back of the dragon so I could speak to her." Liliana leaned back slightly. "Landed in a small grove. After the initial growling, I was able to temporally cleanse her of the krass, or blight. I asked her how Corypheus made her. She said she was forced to consume the red lyrium that is infected with the krass. Which made her under his control. While controlled by the blight, Corypheus compelled her to accept a mortal's soul into her. Which, after thinking about it, explains why the dragon rend shout doesn't work." Uthreida smiled at Liliana's confused arched brow. "I asked how to heal her, she said the three thu'ums. I asked where Corypheus was heading. His headquarters. His plans. But she was succumbing to the blight again and couldn't speak. Once she succumbed to the blight, we fought again. She picked me up and threw me on top of a big tree where I rolled down a long hill. After gathering my wits, I climbed the hill and realized I was near the river with the Commander. The soldiers can fill you in on the rest."

Liliana licked her lips slowly. Placing her wine glass on the table with a sense of patience. She looked at Uthreida with boredom. "You're not honestly expecting me to put any of that into a report."

"No. I don't."

She sucked her teeth and looked on. "You expect to tell me that you willingly climbed on the back of a dragon and flew off. Again."

"Aye. And again, commanding his dragon to fly to give distance away from him."

Her lips pursed in annoyance. "You commanded his dragon?" Her scathing tone matched her disbelief.

"Aye."

She blinked slowly. "Then proceeded to speak at it."

"To her. Her names Yolkahpraan. Though other dragons know her as Niithilin. Which, after reflection, is probably a title rather than a name in dragon culture."

"Right." She spun her wine slowly. "Where she then informed you-"

"That Corypheus trapped her. Forced to eat or consume the red lyrium that is infected with the blight."

Her silence was thick as was her shroud of doubt. "He trapped a dragon?"

Uthreida smirked and leaned back. "There are stories of Olaf One-eye and the dragon Numinex. Trapped in Dragon Keep for a century until even he forgot his name. It is possible." Liliana sipped her wine silently. "Look, Cullen and I have been looking into it. Corypheus is placing his men to guard known dragon lairs. Each of these locations has a mine of red lyrium near it. That covers the logistics of getting it to the dragon. What we can't figure out is what they're waiting on. Why haven't they attacked?"

"Is that the reason Cullen didn't send you to kill the dragon in the forest?"

"Aye. No actual mine to worry about. The Templars were starting one, but it hadn't reached completion. And by the time Overbridge's men cleared the area, there weren't any Templars to set it back up. In doing so, no need to slay the dragon."

Liliana sighed, rolling her shoulders back. "Uthreida, when I asked you to distract him, I didn't mean with falsified fantasies."

"It's true." Uthreida leaned forward. "And you know this priest of the old gods has a plan for dragons. And his overarching plan includes dragons." Liliana arched a brow in skepticism. "No man is satisfied with one source of power. You know he wants more."

Liliana looked away with a heavy, disappointing sigh. "You are aware that if I inform Royoc in a report that you commanded his dragon, had a conversation with it, and failed to kill it, again, it's only going to further prove the rumors of blood magic and ties to Corypheus."

Uthreida lowered her brows in confusion. "You're not going to send that report."

"Because?"

"Gol ha dov."

Liliana sat back in the chair. All emotions were removed from her face. Waiting on her next orders. Uthreida smirked and leaned forward predatory. "Because you will never tell another soul what we have spoken of tonight between you and me." She smiled again at Liliana. "And look, no blood." She held up her hands for inspection. "How kind you are to look into me after my husband was wounded in battle and my failure in the field. I look forward to my official debriefing tomorrow. After we all get some rest." Uthreida snapped her fingers and the life came back into Liliana. She blinked and took a breath. Uthreida held up one finger to stop her. "What will you do? Call the guards? And tell them what?" Liliana took a hissing breath but choked on her words. Uthreida smirked at her. "When asked why you killed me. How will you respond? What was the damming evidence that finally tipped you over?" the spymaster glared at her while Uthreida got more comfortable in the chair.

"What did you do?" She growled, hiding that her hands were reaching for a knife.

Uthreida only smiled. "Commanded a dragon. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm exhausted." She stood from the chair and Liliana stood with her quickly. Ready to keep her distance. Uthreida smirked seeing her paranoia. "I harbor no ill will to you, Spymaster. But your little pet Inquisitor can't know yet either. That said, I trust you'll keep this conversation between us. For everyone's safety."

Liliana's tucked chin and eyes of death only made her smirk. "The Inquisition will know."

Uthreida chuffed, looking over her form and knowing she couldn't speak. "I've told you before. My goal is to go home and protect my people. Nothing more." Liliana twitched her nose. "Also, my contract is severed when Corypheus or his dragon is no longer a threat. That said, I'd also like to point out that Royoc has faced Corypheus twice now as I have faced Niithilin twice. And his latest attempt to end the war, included him running away from his target. I am one step closer to understanding and dominating my target where you still don't have anything on how to destroy him. So if you are thinking of assassinating me in my sleep tonight, you better start to look at the morale of the men and question if Royoc won't run again." Uthreida watched Liliana pull her head back in thought as she looked Uthreida over. "Think about it. If Royoc doesn't end this war, he maintains his power. And you know how hungry he's becoming." Uthreida gave a quick bow of her head and turned. Having the ward spell ready as she exited the tent.

Xxx

Uthreida stumbled into the forest. Drinking and singing with the men to distract from the depression of the day may not have been the wisest decision of her life. But here she was. She tripped over a rock and laughed as she pushed herself back up. Finding a decent tree, she unbuckled her trousers and squatted to make water.

Taking in the night through drunken lenses. She stood and buckled her trousers again. She looked at the canopy of the trees and saw a cloud move from the moon. The light of the moon reflected on the stone pillar a ways off from her.

It glittered.

Uthreida lowered a brow and ambled her way to it. She stood at the base of a ten-foot by an eight-foot stone pillar. The bottom of it appeared to be white stone. But the top glittered like in gold. She tilted her head looking at it. The movement of the small golden squares looked like a mosaic. An egg shape with pointed-

Oh, it's a mer.

Wide almond-shaped eyes. High cheekbones. Glittered in gold.

She chuckled. "Altimer? You hound me still?" She playfully shook a fist at the stone mosaic. She tapped the pillar. Maybe the lands are closer than she thought.

A breaking tree branch made her turn her head. Noticing how quiet the forest was. The absence of the screeching caws of that weird-looking bluebird. "Bas." She looked around and no life appeared before her. A sense of uneasiness filled her with dread in her stomach. An ancient warning in her heart. "And time to move."

She turned and saw the red silhouette of a figure. Her hand went to her belt and swore. Remembering she left her weapons in the tent to drink. "Fuck."

She blinked off the spell and reached for the knife in her boot. "Nightingale, call them off."

There was a chuckle in the night that didn't sound familiar to her. She saw white hair move closer to her. An older woman that had horns- hair horns? That must be a nightmare to put up. And maintain throughout the day. What does she use? Tree sap?

"Dovahkiin"

Oh shit, she's taking. Uthreida took a step back. "Ay-uh- and you are? Creepy lady."

She stepped into the light. An old woman in leather armor and metal gauntlet approached. Her wrinkled smile hid something. Uthreida took another step back and touched the pillar. "Names are pretty," her older smoky voice sang, "but ultimately useless."

Uthreida pouted in thought. "I disagree, but" she waved a hand for her to finish.

"You may call me Flemeth."

Uthreida looked away awkwardly. The woman's smile was like she was waiting for her to know the name. Uthreida cleared her throat. "Blessings. Uh, Uthreida Storm-Blade. You uh, seem to know me. So, what…can I do…for you?" She cleared her throat awkwardly.

The woman chuckled at her display. "You have something I need."

Uthreida tried to push the alcohol aside but it wasn't working as she tried to think of what a woman, alone, in the dark forest, talking to her, could possibly want- "you're a demon!" Uthreida smiled as she figures it out. "I know this. Uh, stay away." She held up her hands with a smile. "Or the Maker shall smite you. For the Maker is…uh…is" she hit her forehead. "How does it go? Ah, the Chant of Light. Ohhhh." She waved her hands as if to cause fear in the demon.

The old woman laughed at her interpretation. "That is an accurate depiction of modern theology. Though it loses something when you lack the faith required to wield it."

"Well, you know what they say. When in the Imperial City. So, you're a demon. Here to possess me. Ironically, they already think I'm a blood mage. So if you do win, make it a good show, aye? Otherwise, I'm going to be pissed." She rolled her shoulders and flipped the knife in her hand. "Let's do this."

The woman cackled again. "So eager for a fight." She tilted her head.

"What? Need not be like that? Just submit? You obviously don't know me."

She sighed. "I know you, Dovahkiin. I know your story, your blood far better than you could-"

"How do you get your hair like that?" The woman scolded at Uthreida interruption. "Sorry."

The woman shook her head. "Do you know who I am?" Uthreida paused to think but shook her head. She sighed. "I am Asha'bellanar to the Dalish. Flemeth to the mortals. And the shard of Kyne to you."

"Bull shit."

The woman's angered glair was focused on her. "Then how else do you suppose you ended up here when Tsun sent you back to Tamriel."

Uthreida raised a finger to make a point but stopped. She looked the old woman over. To be fair, when during the Altimeri War, several of gods did die. And during the Allessian Doctrine, they did rip some apart and sew back together the parts of them they wanted to keep. Theoretically, she could, possibly, maybe, be a shard or facet of Kyne or Kynareth that was thrown away? Uthreida snapped her jaw shut. "You have my attention."

The old woman smiled viscously. "You have something I need."

Uthreida forced down the hiccup and blinked. "Which is?"

"I need a soul."

"Ha! Demon."

"I'm not a- silence fool. I need a dragon's soul."

"Well, there's a dragon over" she pointed east but remembered that she didn't know which was east. "Somewhere in the forest."

The woman took a long and patient breath. "I need an ancient dragon's soul. Odiviings I believe you called him."

Uthreida squinted and looked at her. "Ha?"

"In exchange, I will offer you a place at my side."

"Ha?"

"A new war is brewing and I will need your help."

Uthreida paused. "Ha?" Her voice rose an octave in even more confusion.

The Old woman gave an aggravated growl. "Give me the soul, child."

"Would if I could, but I don't know how, so, no." The woman took a breath and it sounded like a dragon. "Fos." Uthreida was slammed back into the pillar by her own thu'um as she failed to take the proper stance and control it. She looked to see the woman recovering back a step.

"Do not toy with me." She took two steps with a hand raised in power. "I will have what I need."

Uthreida flipped the knife in her hand and went to stab her. The blade hit her gauntlet as the woman's other hand glowed blue as she touched Uthreidas shoulder. Lightning filled her core and she felt herself crumple to her knees in the pain. The old woman muttered something as her other hand glowed a deeper red. Uthreida could only watch as the womans hand reached and slammed into her chest.

Fire filled her core and she let out a scream of pain as she felt something rip in her heart. The sundering of something she didn't know. She opened her eyes to see the woman's hand pull away from her chest. Racked in pain and fire, she watched as an orange blob filled her hand. Feeling every inch the soul emerged from her chest. Uthreida eyes went wide as she watched her friend leave her.

Uthreidas rage-filled as she breathed. "Yol Gol" the woman was engulfed in fire. But a tilt of her head doused the flames as she kept going.

No.

Uthreida used her elbow to break the lock on the woman's arm that was holding her by the shoulder. She pulled her by the collar as Uthreida stood. Slamming her forehead into the old woman's nose. She staggered back and broke the concentration on the spell. Uthreida had an orange soul floating from her chest and had no idea how to fix it. "Shh, Odiviing." She placed her hands to the rear of it and tried to gently force him back in. "It's okay."

"Foolish child." The woman stood taller. She held her hand out. Uthreida took a defensive stance while trying to protect the global in her chest. She was shoved back into the pillar by magic. Her hands and arms were held wide and unable to move. Panic set in as she watched the woman approach. A winning smirk on her face as her yellow eyes were only on the soul. "Now hold still. This will only hurt for a moment."

She pulled at the soul again. Uthreidas body tightened at the ripping of her heart and screamed again. Pulling everything into her arms and legs to kick the woman back. She took a breath and she'd throat tightened. She couldn't call a thu'um yet. Too soon. Uthreida looked at her hands and pulled at any spell that would work. She called oak flesh to stop the woman's pull from her body. But the old woman just smirked. Pulling more magicka, Uthreida's spell broke as she was pulled harder.

She grunted in pain and felt the last remains of Odiviing leave her. Watching as the orb of orange light left her. The old woman simply smiled as she looked at the orb. She dropped her extended hand and Uthreida crumpled to the ground.

What was that?

"Slayer?" A voice called from the camp.

Both turned to follow the voices. But her eyes saw a fox in the brushes. Its head tilted as it watched her. Shore.

"Thank you, child. And I have what I came for."

Her attention moved back to the old woman. Knife in one hand, she forced herself to her feet. "No, you won't. You and your kind are always the same. Building up the people then taking credit for their struggles. Their survival even as you cast them onto the wastes. He is mine. That soul is mine. This blood is mine. And if you want it, false god" she spun the blade and held it in a defense of her chest. Her knees wobbled at the pull of the soul from her exerted body. "Come and take it."

Running footsteps approached. The old woman shook her head. "Another child whose vision is so clear of the future." She scoffed, holding Odiviings soul to her own chest.

"Don't."

The soul melded with hers effortlessly. She didn't bend her form to submit to the flames but smiled. "Do you not see what you risk? What is to come?" The woman canted her head. A joke in her light tone.

"Slayer?" the voices called again.

"I don't know you. And the last who stole my kills bends to the will of another. You want me, you're going to have to earn it."

She threw her head back and laughed. "It's not about what I want, Dovikhiin, it's about what will be needed. And you have no say in your fate." Uthreida lowered her brows to her cryptic words. "Zu'u ni gahrot ni ofan." She doesn't steal what isn't offered.

Uthreida looked at her with more confusion. But she did. She stole the soul. Meaning…"What do you offer?'

The woman smiled at her. "A place. A way to heal the land and still save the dragons of this land."

A slight movement made Uthreida look over to see the fox still watching. Shore? Its head shook slowly. "You are a false priest." She turned the blade and stepped forward. "And you have stolen that which is not yours."

"Did you not say you would offer the soul if you knew how?" She chuckled in a smoky, seretious way. Uthreida gritted her teeth. "Travel north, child. To the Witches Grove in Antiva. And there will lie the answers you seek. A way to raise that which has been lost. And a way to lose that which as been raised."

"Slayer." Dorian called. She turned to see him but quickly looked back at the woman. Who was gone.

"Princess." Varric jogged to her aide and she leaned against the pillar. "You alright?" She looked over to see the fox and it too was gone. She took a deep breath, her hand on her chest, lamenting that her friend was gone. "What happened?"

She took a deep breath. Slumping against the pillar. She chuckled at the exegetical situation. "I think I was robbed." And ignored Varrics snicker.

Xxx

Between the snoring of the female tent, soreness from the ride, the knots in her stomach in worry and stress, fear of failure and loss, feeling each punch from the universe over the last few days, Uthreida wondered about the camp. The camp was quiet at nightfall as the sentry Soldiers kept on patrol and the fires died out.

She needed to know. To see.

To have another see, to see her shaken like this. To see her weakness before them. To target him as her weakness, in his weakened state,

She clenched her jaw at the idea. It was wrong. She should keep her distance. She can't let them see. Can't let the gods see. But she needed to see. To know he was alright.

What was once three medical tents at first has reduced to one. Those unable to move remained in the field. Those that could or needed to move were brought. And Cullen had been riding in the medical cart for two days. She hasn't heard anything from him. No one has spoken of him in her presence. But she has seen the soldier's reactions to her. The distance to her. The silence and looks of betrayal as she walked or rode. She failed them at their perception of her failing her husband. But in Nordic culture, turning to stoicism during a time of fear was expected. Honored. That public displays of affection or tragedy were not needed but simply known. Her distance allowed the healers space as was Nordic tradition. But it was clear that Thedasions don't hold the same notions. Notions that made her more relieved that she was allowed to see him and yet scared that she would reveal too much.

She stood before the single red tent. She could smell the urine and vomit before entering. The slight taste of blood.

Kyne, Stenddar, Arkay, please.

She looked around quickly and didn't see want one watching her as she entered. The dim lights of the medium tent took her a moment to adjust. Five cots lined both the long walls. And seven were filled with sleeping soldiers. Healers in the back, fighting off sleep, perked as she pushed her way in. A mer male walked to her with a hand raised. "Miss, I'm sorry, you can't be here." His whisper was gentle but insistent.

Uthreida swallowed back the fear of being seen and spoke. "I'm here to see my husband." She whispered for the sake of the sleeping soldiers. "Where is the Commander?" Her voice broke on his title. She clenched her jaw to keep some semblance of control.

The healer looked at the back of a tent and Uthreida saw an older woman sigh with a soft nod.

The male nodded to Uthreida and held a hand out for her to follow. On the third cot next to the door, Cullen was laid up with the same bandages as before. Changed. Fresh. But the same. She crossed her arms to hold her chest as she looked down at him. He was breathing. Sleeping. Alive. The male stood next to her with his arms behind his back. "What's his status?"

The young man perked but looked away. "He has a slight infection, minimal fluid in his lungs, had significant blood loss, and two broken ribs."

"How are you treating the infection?"

"Oil of the grace, mlady." Uthreida arched a brow at the medicine. "It helps to reduce the pus from the leg wound."

"And the fluids?"

"Are drained by the tubes."

She nodded, knowing the sleep fixes the last two. "What, ah, what do you need from me?"

The man held a breath. "Nothing lady. He simply just needs to rest to restore the humors."

"What can I do?"

"Nothing." Uthreida inhaled at the answer she hated. "It's his battle now."

She clenched her jaw. Watching him fight for his own life was more heartbreaking than there was nothing she could do to help him. To watch as he faced this alone. Her heart hammered in her chest as she looked down at him. His bedding shifted in his sleep. She moved it so he was covered again. "What do I do?" She asked gently.

"Uh," the healer's voice held a question but cleared his throat. "Do you want to stay with him?"

She looked at the healer quickly to see his question but looked away. Every Nordic edict telling her to leave and let them work was slammed against the desire to keep everyone away from him so he could heal in peace. To let him know he wasn't alone. She bit her lip in frustration. "What do I-how do"

The healer paused and could feel the humor roll off him. "I'll get you a stool."

She stood over Cullen, watching his breath as the healer turned. She felt like an idiot. Asking how to comfort someone, who she is married to, what should she do. But she don't know. Didn't know what was allowed. Didn't know what to do with her hands. The healer passed her a wooden stool and she noticed his hands. The healer had minor burns on his hands. Mage. If he wasn't forcing magic into Cullen, he was beyond healing at this point. He was truly on his own.

She sat on the stool by Cullens head and crossed her arms. Watching over him in silence. The fear of losing him swallowed her heart. She knew it was selfish. To keep him alive for herself. Not for the Inquisition. Not for his Maker. Not for the blessings of Sthun. But to keep him alive for her. To see his awkward smile again. Dry humor. Teasing. His gentle whispers in the night and his arms. His vision of hope. His patience. His resolve.

Her chin quivered at the thought of his passing. Their little dream of a little land and a little home. And looking at his form, wanted it more than anything. He held her back, she knew. But she needed it. A cautious reminder not to go too far. To not become the dragon.

It seemed ironic now. A dragon of dominance and destruction left useless in the face of death and mortality. Not knowing what to do, how to help, how to heal. She wondered what Paarthurnax would say or do at this moment. How many greybeards have died in his time? How many has he lost? How many were friends? Did he care? Did he mourn? Has he also sat useless as plague and famine stretched? Did he feel this useless as the Tongues killed his brothers? Would he warn against getting too close? Does he know this pain?

Uthreida leaned forward on her knees as she tried not to cry. Feeling frustrated and depressed and worried sick. Not knowing what to do. She swallowed back the fear. Looking at him. She eyed the healers who seemed to be keeping their hands busy and trying not to notice her. She looked at the tent flap. Afraid to see Liliana behind her. But it was empty.

She looked about and wanted to distract herself. She saw his weapon and wondered when the last time it was cleaned and sharpened. But running the whetstone might wake the soldiers. She wondered when his armor was last polished and cleaned, but the loose buckles and rubbing might wake them up. She wondered if she could carve a healing rune, but knew the sound of scraping wood or stone would waken others. And Cullen would want them to rest more than himself.

So she sat there. Quietly. Looking at the new wounds. Hearing his breathing. And did nothing. Holding back the frustration of not being able to do or say anything. Of having nothing to offer him. Seeing him weak and can't, couldn't help him.

She damned her inadequacy and scooted forward. She took his hand in hers. Lacing his cold fingers between hers. She held his hand to her heart while her other hand held the hammer of Talos. Breathing deeply, trying not to plead with the gods in her silent prayers. Trying not to cry as she reached for them. Asking only they look out for him. Wanting to ask Shore to accept him in Sovngarde, but knew Cullen wouldn't want that. She had a passing thought of giving him a blade before he died. To fool the gods. Even his own. But in the end, no real words formed in her mind. It was just a collection of passing thoughts, fears, impending loneliness, and desires of miracles.

His hand squeezed hers and she opened her eyes.

Cullen looked at her with golden eyes and a weak smile. She beamed. Deep breaths of relief engorged her heart in hope. A new wave of tears as she looked at his awake form. He opened his mouth to speak but nothing came. Cullen cleared his throat. Uthreida shook her head at him. It was late. People were sleeping, and he didn't need to speak. He was awake, alive, and with her. That's all she needed right now. Her jaw quivered as she looked into his eyes. She hid her rejoice by kissing the back of his hand. Thank the gods. All of them.

His smile was softer as he looked at her. He released her hand to cup her cheek. She tilted her face into his hand. Her brows furrowed in restrained emotions and utter happiness. His thumb swooped across her eye and realized she was crying. She looked at him to see him still smiling with heavy lids. He took her hand and brought it to his lips to kiss. He placed their hands over his heart. A sense of protection and hope fell over her at his single action.

He looked her over slowly with a brow of question. Asked how she was. She took a deep breath to battle the previous fears and melted into contentment within his eyes. She asked the same silent question to him.

He took a breath and squinted at the pain in his ribs as his other hand moved to cover the wound. She smiled kindly at his wounds. He rolled his eyes annoyed and moved to scratch at his leg wound. She stopped his hand and shook her head. He frowned deeply to show intent and she tittered softly at his stubborn pride. She shook her head again softly and he snorted a release.

She smiled. Letting her heart lead her as she moved to touch his face and hair. Gave a playfully disgusted expression as she inspected her hand from the thick oil in his hair. He shot her a teasing look that she smiled at. He was still there. It's still him. Her throat tightened at the idea and a new smile ripped at her face. He was stronger than this.

He held his arm wide for her. Inviting her. Wanting her to lie next to him. She tilted her head with a smirk and winked. Making the innocent request sexual. He deflated and looked away. Fighting the smile. She bit her lip. He had enough blood to blush. She looked at the small cot frame then at his wounds. She shook her head slowly at him. Knowing neither would be comfortable for long and he needed his rest. He lowered his arm, his free hand going to the coin of Andraste under his shirt as he looked at her. A request she didn't know. His hand tightened around hers as he kissed her knuckles again.

He wanted her to stay. She took their joined hands and kissed his thumb over hers to promise to stay. He looked slightly annoyed but his smile was kinder. He leaned back on the bed to get comfortable again and closed his eyes.

Uthreida watched over him until his breathing was back to its normal rhythm. Letting the relief of seeking his awaken fill her with joy. She licked her lips as she looked at him. Wondering how, when, and why she started to care this deeply for him. And why the idea of losing him depressed her so. This followed by a question, she never thought to ask. A new fear crept up her spine as she looked at his sleeping form. And a test to see if she was truly this stupid.

She stood slowly from the stool and kissed his temple gently. Then his forehead. She leaned into his ear and whispered, "I love you."

She didn't choke. She didn't lie. He didn't respond. Her eyes were wide as took in his sleeping form. She sat on the ground under his cot with a new wave of guilt in her stomach. His hand was still in hers. She leaned forward, hiding her face from the room. Oh shit. Mara. She's going to kill him. She held his hand tighter and leaned over his cot and noticed he didn't smell right. She realized he was swathed in clothes and blankets that weren't his. She looked over and found his armor and pack. His weapon and his cloak. She pulled the mantle closer and wrapped it over his chest. The scent of oakmoss and elder leaves filled her senses and she felt pulled to him. Safe. Like he was safe.

She closed her eyes and prayed with her heart in her throat. Mara, please, not again. Please, don't do this again. He was innocent. Don't blame him for her childish mistakes. Please. Not him.

Xxx

"Hey."

Uthreida grunted as she read. Swaying with Ragnars steps as she read more onto the blights. Trying to find something that would show how the krass works. Gods. Over a thousand years of disease and they practically knew nothing of it.

"What are you doing?"

"What's it look-" she paused as she recognized the voice. She looked over to see Cullen riding Cadence. A smile pulled on her lips as she looked at him. He was off the medical cart. Riding. But confusion hit her as she turned to see the rear of the procession where she started. She looked at Cadence then "Ragnar." She scolded the horse who just pulled an ear back.

"Uh huh." Cullen grunted with a knowing smile.

Uthreida sighed, knowing what he was getting at. "I think he just misses his stall mate." He made the same sound at her excuse. She closed the book to glare at him. And he smiled like an idiot. She clicked her tongue and pulled the reigns back.

"Wait" he reached for her and Uthreida held out a hand to keep him from falling off his horse.

"You alright?"

He sat right and giggled. "I'm, I'm so high on elf root right now." He laughed again only to hold his side. "Look. They strapped me to the horse." Her eyes went to his lap to see that he was indeed strapped to the saddle.

"The poor thing." Her eyes drew over him, taking notice of the new scar on his right cheek. She looked away with a smile.

"What?"

She shook her head in shame. "Leave it to you to exit a fight prettier than when you went in."

"Right?" Uthreida rolled her eyes and shook her head in shame. "How are you?"

She took a breath. Failed to kill the dragon out of fear for herself. A false god wants her soul for something. Corypheus apparently now knows her. Liliana is planning her assassination. And she thought she was going to lose a man she lo-

She took a breath. "You?"

"Oh, I feel fantastic."

She smiled. "What? No pride of victory that you slept through."

"Ow. What a wicked tongue you have." He leaned towards her. "All sharp and forked and pointed-"

"What are you doing?" She leaned away from him, knowing what he wanted but was surrounded by the men. Who would see. And know. And speak. And question.

"What do you think I'm doing?" She widened her eyes to the men that marched around them back to Skyhold. Showing he better start acting right. "Oh please. Like they don't already know. Hey," he called to a Soldier and she held up a hand to stop them from approaching. Saying he was high and dramatic. Cullen shook his head and looked up.

"I suppose you can use this situation to reinforce to your Soldier's the importance of fighting even if wounded."

He pulled his head. "Do you ever see your name floating above your head?"

Uthreida had to hide her face from laughing at such a ridiculous and random statement. "No. Can't say that I have." She looked over at him to see him point at it. "Does seem like it would get in the way though. Can you imagine? Looking up to find a dragon, swatting away at your name for a better vision."

"Yea." He said slowly, his eyes still looking at the imaginary letters floating. Gods be blessed, he's high. He swatted at it again with an annoyed look. "I can't believe you stabbed me."

She quickly turned to look at him and his accusation. "Excuse me?"

"You stabbed me. Or, so I was told."

She sighed. "You had a punctured lung, Commander. I had to ease the airway."

"You stabbed me."

She rolled her eyes. So dramatic. Fighting the smile on her face. "It wasn't a stab. It was more like a precise puncture."

"With a knife." He accused quicker.

She had to hide her face to cover her laughter. He was winning the argument and he knew it. "Aye. You got me. I tried to kill you, but whoops, saved your life instead. Damn. Whenever will I learn?"

She looked over to see him fighting his own smile. "Your apology is accepted."

"I will not-" she sat back and didn't give him the satisfaction to see her irritation of the argument. To which of course he laughed. Then grunted holding his side again. She rolled her eyes and looked away. Cooling her annoyance at him.

"Hey."

She looked back and noticed Ragnar had fallen behind. She heeled him gently to get him to speed up. Ragnar ignored the command and bit Cadence's flank. Her tail moved to the side as she whinnied.

Oh shit.

"Get off the horse." Uthreida vaulted off the Ragnar and moved. She cut the strap on Cullens thigh from Cadence's saddle while Cullen protested. "Get off the horse."

"First of all, I'm strapped."

She grabbed him by the gorget and ripped.

"Commander" several of the Soldiers moved to help him as he landed on her. She pushed him off and started laughing.

Cullen looked at his legs and the saddle still strapped and saw what she did. "Makers breath."

Uthreida laughed as Ragnar had mounted Cadence. "Get it, Ragnar." She called to the horse with a cheer.

Cullen face palmed himself. "Will you desist this" flicking a hand at the mating horses.

"What? He's almost done."

"That's not the point." He crossed his arms as Ragnar grunted. "Can you at least help me get out of this damn saddle?"

Uthreida chuckled at his plight as both still sat on the ground as Soldiers moved to them. "Your horse is a whore."

"Now see here. I will have you know that she's…wonderful. We're all allowed our quirks. Nothing…wrong with a bit of fun." She laughed at his explanation as he pulled at the straps and ignored the Soldiers laughter.

"Your precious, white, pureblood taken by a common Fereldan."

He sighed at the sight. "Timing could've been better." Uthreida smiled and heard the subtext in his voice.

"Like so many other things." Uthreida helped him with the buckles as Ragnar finished up with a loud blow. Uthreida helped Cullen to stand as they looked at the two horses. Cullen sighed. "Well. Now what?"

"Here." She helped him walk. "You ride Ragnar in the middle of the formation to stay safe. I'll take Cadence to the rear. Where she won't get any more attention. In the rear."

"Very funny." They hobbled over with Soldiers on the wings to await if needed. "I thought your horse was gelded?"

"Stallion blood. Just like his master."

They argued about how to get Cullen up on the saddle given his injured leg when he confessed he had no idea how he even got onto Cadence. They figured out a way by having Ragnar lay down by a former Fereldan soldier who knew the command. Cullen, now situated and holding up the formation, was able to move forward on the thin road. Uthreida turned and saw the Soldiers had fixed and saddled Cadence for her. "Thank you." She climbed onto the saddle and clicked to pull her off the road. Uthreida stood there and waited for the majority of the procession to pass. When she noticed it was only the Soldiers, she stepped off onto the road. She smiled as she petted Cadence's neck. "Was it good for you too?"

A few hours had passed and the formation didn't break for lunch. She looked ahead for Cullen but didn't see him in the procession. Certainly, he or someone packed something to eat. She opened the saddlebags and started to dig for food or drinks. All she found was parchment, the tact kit, a few books, horse brushes, oats, this is Cadences pouch.

She opened the second and started digging. Her fingers found a box. Success. She pulled it out and saw it was a small, unstained oak box. She opened it and saw more parchments. Gods. What does this man eat? She closed it and heard some metal at the bottom. She gave it a shake and heard it again. Like a coin or something. She pulled the parchment out and found a thin golden ring. Too small for him.

She tried to pretend like she didn't know what it was for. A knowing and a proud smile curled on her lips. Getting her story straight before someone questioned why she's going through his things. Her urge to snoop was intense. She flicked the parchment. What's the ring for? She bit her lips excited as she opened the parchment. Five pages. Each a letter. She bit her tongue as she read. Careful to keep the ring and box secured.

Commander Cullen of the Inquisition,

In regards as to why I didn't inform the Inquisition as to the actual history of Blackwall, or whatever that cloud gazer's name is that took the identity of my mentor. Or inform you that he was an imposter is quite simple. I've created a detailed listing below to show my reasoning.

1) I don't owe you or the Inquisition a damn thing. Let alone the identity of one man who probably single handily unified the Wardens.

2) Obviously, in case you haven't figured it out yet, I'm an asshole.

3) Because fuck you, that's why.

All future quandaries can be settled with the current Warden-Commander, Nathaniel Howe of Vigils Keep.

Piss off,

First Wardens Errand Boy

Former Commander of the Grey

Erin Kadar

Uthreida chuckled as she read the letter. Whoever this man is hilarious. She smiled more as she read the postscript below in Cullen's hand.

Can't tell if I love him or loath him.

She laughed and shook her head. The audacity. The courage. The vendetta. The allowance of his position where Cullen was forced into a rigid structure where the wardens live in the grey. She smiled and read the next letter with an excited inhale.

Commander Cully of the Flaming Eyeball Society.

First of all, Mia is pissed your first letter in over three years, was to me. That said, to answer your questions:

Yes, da was Avvar.

Yes, he converted for ma

No, ma would not be disgraced at your choice of a bride. Even if she was, who in the void cares? I don't. Love is love. Do you, Templar. Mia, on the other hand, is the devout Andrastian who didn't "leave her responsibilities behind to chase after her heart." Like we have some pure breed name that needs saving.

Her heart's in the right place, feeling left out of your life as the head of the family, but, to call you out for a mage angered all of us. Cut her some slack. Given the rise in the war and Red Templars making her question her beliefs, go easy on her.

Anyways, the point of the letter. It's only recently occurred to me that you left after the incident.

Yes, Da was Avvar. Apparently, ma was gathering thistle, as she was prone to, and got lost. She came across a group of hunters that helped, healed, and guided her home. One of them was Da.

After a few months, he proposed but Grandma wasn't having a barbarian so he converted. He changed his Skaldic name from Stand Tall to Standton, and took mothers name of Rutherford.

You were there for the middle part.

Anyways, just before the blight, a group of Avvar wondered into Honnleath for, what we assumed, was for trade. Da being Da, kept out of it and let them through the village. The old Mayor came to him to help the Thane see reason and leave. Da, total badass in his youth apparently, picked up his bow and spoke to the Thane who had occupied the village for safety as some Avvar war was going on in the mountains. He kept us at the house but I'm told by the others that he battled the Thane in a competition of lyric, history, and arms. At some point, the old Mayor was killed, and the new mayor, realizing what Da was, thanked him for saving the village, but politely asked him to leave. Weakened from his battle, the blight took him as we crossed Ferelden. Between the stresses of leaving his home in the mountains, he died. And ma quickly followed as she lost her heart as well.

No, your life isn't a sham. He was Andrastian and taught us a few of the old ways but committed to his promise to Ma.

Speaking of promises, your wife seems…nice. From the few conversations I've had. A fellow hunter is always welcomed. If she's anything like Ella, I hope she keeps you in line. If we're all lucky, I'm sure my son would appreciate more cousins. If she has a brother or a well-respected Avvar friend, I'm sure Mia could use some company. I would love to see Mia be swooned by some large barbarian to sweep her off her feet. Watch her drop a peg or two from her high and mighty tower.

Best of luck on your endeavors big brother,

Branson Standton Rutherford

Uthreida smiled as she remembered the man who was a year or two younger than her. She reread the story and smiled. Cullen's da is Avvar. And Cullen married, what he thought, was a barbarian. She looked to the sky with a smile. Here's hoping…Stand Tall approves.

She pulled the next letter with a smile.

Cully,

Mia wrote to me and I had no idea you were still alive. I'm so excited and terrified of the things she wrote.

Are you alright?

How are you getting on?

Do you need anything?

Is there anything I can do to help?

A mage? An Avvarran Mage? Naughty little Templar.

I jest brother. But I am relieved you're alright. Even more than after three years of silence, you actually rode to them in person. I don't know if that's heartwarming or rude. But I'll let it slide.

I don't know if Mia told you, but yes, I'm in Denerim. Happily married to my Deneric and our three handful children. He's a good man and sweet even if he's at the forge most of the day. I help him run the business as his kindness almost put him in debtor's prison, and honestly, I rather like living in the city. There's always a breath of adventure here-but not too much. All the people and foreigners and trade, it's fascinating. As I'm sure your life is as well. I heard you traveled to Nevarra recently? What was it like? Did you get to see the Necropolis? While I'd never want to see, or rather smell, I've heard wonderful things.

Oh, and Orlais? Have you been to Val Royox? Is it as beautiful as they say? Deneric has promised to take me next spring for resupply and I can't wait. Do you have any suggestions?

Never would I have thought that Templars travel as much as you do. Or, rather recently.

I have heard strange things in Denerim. Is it true the mages declared independence from the Chantry? That Templars are killing children? Mage children in the streets? I haven't seen it personally, but Denerim is a large place. Is it true that the Avvar is amassing on the borders as a legion? That the Inquisition is growing across all of Thedas? And you lead its army.

I'm so proud of you big brother. We always knew you were destined for a higher calling, but to be a general, for her most holy army, is…I have no words to describe the pride, love, and fear for your life that I carry for you.

Mia says you don't write often, and when you do, it usually reads like a report of daily activities and nothing of your actual life or thoughts or…well happiness. I don't expect a quick reply or even a reply. But I just wanted to let you know that I do think of you. I ask the Maker to guide you and the others every night. And, according to Mia, you have a wife. She said she had an Avvar name but didn't know how to spell it. But please her know that I pray for her as well. For her happiness, serenity, and patience to withstand our stubborn streaks.

I love you brother. I always have and I always will. Stay safe on your journeys to keep us safe like you always wanted.

May the Maker watch over your path, Cully.

Your loving sister,

Rosaline Standton Hoffener

Uthreidas eyes pricked as she read. Rosaline seems sweet and kind. But if she was anything like Mia, probably a stubborn mother with a deep love of family. She realized she may be intruding on his personal affairs as she read the next letter.

Cullen,

I will not apologize for my actions towards your wife. She is a mage and therefore should be treated with distrust. Riding into Honnleath like the Wild Hunt of myth. However, I may have, overlooked the fact that you are a Templar. Trained to negate and correct her behavior. That said, I should curb my tongue. I spoke thoughtlessly to Rosie's husband and she severed ties. It was only recently when we started speaking together again. Though, I haven't seen her in years. I miss her. As much as I miss you. I know you are taken care of and that the chantry will provide. But Rosie doesn't have that assurance. I'm certain we would be informed of your death, but even I know paperwork gets lost from time to time.

Forgive me, I'm rambling.

While I won't apologize, and I'm angered that the first letter you sent was to Thomas and not me who has written practically a novel of letters at the point to you, I will let it slide as you are actually writing something to us. I will not pretend to like her, or love her even if she is a mage or family. But like I said that night, I care for you. I love you. I respect you. I respect your decisions. In the box is mother's ring. I am ashamed to admit that I did not offer it to Rosie. And it would seem that this spinster has no need for it. Take care of it brother. I could go into the history of mother's receipt of great great grandmother story of when she stole the heart of a noble who paid for it and ran in the night but the symbol of eternity seems pale compared to the story of treachery.

That said, the ring is yours.

I will not hear of anything about you denying it. I am the head of the family, and you will do as you are told, Commander. Is that understood?

Now, little brother, how are things going for you? I don't know if I can ask or if you can speak, but how are things in the Inquisition?

When are you expecting your first child? I will warn you, the army will be fine while you attend to your child's birth and life.

I do love you brother and we do miss you terribly. And I will admit, seeing you, Maker, you look so much like father it's almost uncanny. Watching Thomas is like watching Da. But seeing you, it was like seeing a ghost. More muscular, though I'm sure it's due to the training.

As I said, I love you and I will not stop. No matter how far you run, I will find you again. Don't think you can outrun me Cullen. I'm just as stubborn as you more and more petty.

Stay safe,

Mia Stanton-Rutherford

Ps Ella is due in the winter. You should visit.

Uthreida read with a smirk. The gall. She approved of Mia. The next letter made her sit up higher. There were several strike-throughs and written in Cullen's hand.

Mia,

I've told you, Uthreida is not just a mage. She's a dragon slayer with a flair for magic. And theatrics. And, to reiterate a point, not Avaar. However, I cannot accept the ring. Our marriage was binding under heathen law. To give a fascinating story:

Uthreida was supposed to slay a dragon in the southern bogs. She succeeded. However, the dragon was a hold beast for the local Avvar. They claimed she slew their ancestors. And challenged her to a duel of songs, while drunk. She succeeded. However, the clan didn't want to release her and challenged her to a marital pact. As an asset of the Inquisition, I challenged the leader, and, well, here we are.

Ergo, under heathen law, for every knot untangled is one year of marriage. I undid one knot. Meaning, one year. Further, she is an asset from a foreign country. Of The Inquisition. Once Corypheus Elder One is killed, she will leave the Inquisition. On these grounds alone, I cannot accept the ring as I will not be able to keep it.

There is no reason for you to like nor love her. She will be out of my hands soon and - away from our family. While I dread our anniversary, I cannot stop time. The idea of her giving the ring back is would break my heart more than if she actually It would be wrong for me to take the ring. Please, send it to Rosie who is far more deserving. I'm sure she would appreciate the gesture of reconciliation more than to see Uthreida happily with it. Maker, I can't even pretend to hate her anymore. BURN THIS LETTER AFTER TRANSCRIPTION.

But you needn't worry about me, Mia. I no longer have a reason to hide from you. You no longer have a reason to hunt me. Though I will ask for patience. My job is never-ending and what few free moments I do have, I will try to send more letters. I know it's not easy being my sister, but I do think of you often. And I do try to make you proud and to live up to mothers' and fathers' expectations.

I'll have to see what the future holds for a visit in the winter. We are moving to the last known places where the enemy hides. This war should be wrapped up by the spring. Hopefully. Perhaps a visit then if I can force -

Uthreidas bit her lip as the letter abruptly ended. He's apparently still working on it. She looked at the ring in the box. His mother's ring. That he didn't want to keep in fear she would give it back. A sadness filled her. Dropping her heart to her stomach at the thought of leaving him behind.

He was right, though. She would have to leave. And it was his biggest fear. And it would come to pass. But with Odiviing dead, she had no immediate transport which meant reliance on King Alistair to find her homeland.

Her brow creased as she folded the letters back. Held back sadness as she placed it in his satchel. No longer hungry. She looked ahead, trying to find his golden hair even in the distance. Mara, she was so sorry for her transgressions in her youth. Sorry that it affected him as well.

Xxx

Cullen hobbled his way with a makeshift cane to his tent. Maker. Each step on his leg was a new knife wound. He tried to keep it off his face in the meeting where Liliana and Josephine and Cassandra just kept rambling on and on about the Inquisitor's report and all he wanted to do was take the potion that stopped the pain in his leg. Now of enough presence of mind to know that the bulk of the army was scouring the area of the temple and taking everything they could get their hands on and, apparently Sampson was in a prisoner cart.

He didn't care. Hobbling, hiding the grimace from his face as he stepped. The privacy of his tent getting closer and closer.

"Commander" Vivinne sang out to him.

Not now. He forced the small tent open and secured the toggles on the other side for something like privacy. He turned and stopped. "What?" Maker's breath, this woman is relentless.

Uthreida sat on a cot of furs, removed from her armor. Her back was straight and her eyes closed like she was meditating.

Cullen hobbled over and waved a hand in front of her face. She didn't move. "Utha." No response. He arched a brow but the pain shot up his leg and into his hip. sat loudly on his cot with a hiss of pain. He pulled his bag and desperately searched for the elf root oil. He opened the small vial and placed a few drops on his tongue. He hissed at the taste but laid down on the cot. Maker. It means it's healing right? Or he's over-exerting.

He looked over to see her still sitting on the cot. Unmoved by his show of desperation. Cullen looked around and realized, it was just them. Two cots. In a five-man tent. He looked over at Uthreida to wonder what game she was playing. Ever since this began, she has never shared his tent. Why now?

He looked her over. Her lowered serene face and crossed legs as she breathed quietly. Well, whatever game she was playing at, she was failing. He smirked as he watched her. "You've got an ass worthy of Andraste." No response. "I can tell your fit from your thighs, but that you also never pass up a free cookie." No response. "Dragons are fake." Nothing. "Nordic racism is based on Nordic paranoia and grudges." Nothing. "Your mother was a lemming and your hair carries the appearance of a dribble-draggal." He grunted when she didn't move at his teasing. He didn't know if he was offended at her ignorance, or jealous at her level of meditation.

He forced himself to sit up and started the process of removing his armor. Giggling at the fact the oil was starting to work as his fingertips be seemed numbed to the fine motor skill.

A soft chuckle behind him made him turn. Uthreida watched him with humor in her eyes. "Need some help?"

"No, I ah-"

"Been struggling for two minutes."

"No, that…can't be right."

She made a soft laugh as she stood from her cot to sit next to him. She took his arm and placed it over her shoulder as she worked the pauldrons so he could work the vambraces. His fingers made difficult work of the three buckles and laughed to himself if the struggle.

"May I?" Her finger tapped his belt for his waist. He nodded slowly as he worked on the other arms. She pulled the belt off and slowly removed his furs and cloak. Moving to unbuckle his gorget.

He finally finished the last buckle and looked at her. He leaned in, and she swerved to avoid his kiss. The tip of his nose went to her throat. "You smell different."

"Aye, it's the scent of work and a lack of a decent bath for the last few days. You should try it."

He chuckled as she eased him out of the armor. "You know I've gone months without a decent bath. I'm well aware of the scent of work."

"Shocking then that you don't remember it, Commander." Rolling his title on her tongue like an insult.

He looked away from her as he tossed the armor off his arms. "You're mean."

"Apologies. Was that too close?"

"You're not wrong." He sighed as he tried to stand. Uthreida held her shoulder under his arm to help. "Most days I swear all I do is push around paperwork. Missing the thrill of proper training and drills."

She pulled the armor over his head. "No, Valok, what you miss is a lack of responsibility."

He watched her set the armor at the foot of his cot. "Also true." He took a step and winched at the pain.

She looked at his leg and took his arm. "When was the last time you changed your bandages?"

He tried to think but the elf root oil was making it difficult. "Few hours."

"How often are you supposed to change?"

"Few hours?"

She sighed with a smirk. "You know what I'm going to ask."

He sighed and pulled at the buckle of his trousers. "If you can get my pack I'll"

She stepped around him and placed it on the cot. "What do you need?" Her question was hollow as she opened it. He listed the various slaves, policies, and bandages. When she didn't move, he looked at her. "One more time?"

He listed it again and she looked politely confused at his words. She stood slowly and stood before him. She said something and he argued slowly, realizing that the oil was affecting his speech and his comprehension.

Uthreida ran a finger up his stomach and he stopped her, feeling the shiver of such a gentle touch caressing his whole body. She sighed and shook her head with a smile. Something in her tone made him feel like a child. She finished unbuckling his trousers as his weak hands fought against her. Her eyes were a mix of pleading and demanding while her voice was soft. Pushing his trousers down his leg, careful of his wound.

He blinked and was unsure of how he was sitting on the cot. His boot was placed on her thigh as she unwrapped the bandage around his thigh. Her warm fingers grazed his skin. Noticing his smalls under his jerkin. A heat of embarrassment filled his core. A blushing smile and a dark scar.

He found himself laughing at the game of which salve goes where. Her fingers took the thick paste and gently ran it along with the stitches. This was followed by a relieving sensation as her magic ran along the cut to aid the process. She replaced the linen bandage that made him think of snow.

He was standing, and smirking while she looked annoyed. He squeezed her thick warm flesh, feeling the intricate texture of her woolen trousers and she sighed. Tapping her rear like a drum until she smiled. Tightening his belt until he hissed.

Arms over his head. When did he sit down? Her fingers dragged across his chest. Feeling the pads and skin against his own. Pressing and pushing against his ribs. The increased pressure against his rib and the delight in the pain. The cool pastes pressed to his chest as his hands felt her arms. The skin beneath his own hands.

Rolling his neck as her thumbs pressed into his shoulder. Feeling the nodes of stress and anxiety and fear in his life. Breathing with the movements and feeling them slip beneath her fingers. Her hands on his back and pushing, moving.

Leaning back so his head was in her lap. Soft whispers and laughs. Drowsiness and relaxation overtaking him. Her fingers in his hair filled him with purpose and belonging. His hands went higher on her chest and remembered the soft pink of her nipples. The scars showed weak points in her armor. His hands went up to her back and felt her skin. His hands found her ass again. Tapping to a steady rhythm.

A laugh. A memory from Templar training as the drill instructor pulled six aside to see who was taking the vow of Chasity and a promise. The six of them drew straws and he was one that lost. Looked at the blonde woman and asked if it was a test. He didn't remember the face, but he remembered her eyes. And how exhilarating it was. And how fast his first time with a woman was over. And the blushing smile of refusing to take the vow of Chasity. The knowing smile of the drill instructor.

Then Hanna from Kirkwall. Her puffy eyes at the loss of her recruit brother. And the drinks they shared a few years later. The bite marks on her shoulder, the hand imprints on her rear. The look of fear in her eyes. Shame and disappointment filed him at the idea like a dying flame in his gut.

He saw Uthreida and the wolf, man, spirit, thing in the same positions. Her look of exicity as she sat on Cullens lap. Taking all of his cock into her and moaned into his lips. Her lusted eyes looked only at him. Bite marks on her neck and chest.

Imagery filled his mind's eye of seeing her heavy with child. Children played nearby as she slew dragons. Sitting at a home like his uncles to eat and pray. Carrying the children to the Chantry or watching them kneel to pray at her heathen alter.

He reached over and touched her hip. His fingertips grazing her ass and drawing up her back again as he laid on his cot. A song that filled him with hope and peace and visions of Sovngarde as they protected their land from the oppression of the Empire. Sleep took him as she held his hand from her cot that was pushed closer to his. His fingers laced with hers and smiling in his sleep.

The sound of the movement of the camp woke him. Cullen rolled slightly and hissed as a pain in his chest. He threw the blankets off. He lowered a brow as he looked down. He was fully dressed. He looked behind him and saw Uthreida on her stomach. Her furs pulled low to show she was also dressed. He shook his head, certain they had sex last night. He looked down at his lap and realized his dreams may be more inviting than reality.

Uthreida sat up slowly and turned to his movements. He caught her eyes and watched her chuckle at him. "Blessings."

"Morrow."

She sat up, her smile still on her face. "How are you-" her request severed by a yawn as she tried to talk through it.

"Better. You?"

She laughed again. "You are an absolute riot when taken by elves root."

"Elf root." She waived it off the correction. "What did ah-"

"What didn't ah." She pulled the furs tighter to her to keep out the morning cold.

"Maker." He hid his face in a hand.

"No, don't-look." She turned his shoulder to her. "It was nice. Hilarious conversations."

"Such as?" He asked, still hiding his face from her as dread filled him.

"Gossip. Sexual history. Personal fears. Regrets. Children. Good conversations."

He turned to see her at profile. "I have no memory of any of that."

"I'd imagine. I've taken skooma once. I think I can understand. The temporal displacements. I assume heightened senses as you kept touching me."

Cullen bit his lips. "Sorry."

"No worries. Your secrets are safe."

"Such as?" He asked meekly with a clearing of his throat.

She smiled like a villain and he hung his head. "The story of how you lost your virginity was entertaining."

He slapped his face to hide the heat on his ears and face. "If a fade rift opened and swallowed me up right now, I certainly would not complain."

"How you want children but you're also afraid because of your nightmares. How you want to bite me."

"Please stop." He had to breathe through the realization of just how talkative he was last night and how much he said. He took a courageous breath and looked at her to put her in her place. But she only smiled. Not in predatory. Not in new information, but in appreciation. His heart melting slightly seeing her resting her chin on her shoulder. Her hair curled around her face. Looking beautiful in the low candlelight. Seeing only him.

Both turned when someone walked by the tent. Cullen cleared his throat and turned away on his cot. "We should, Um."

"Aye."

He heard her move and looked at her over his shoulder. A question on his mind as he watched her bend over to place on her boots. "Why are you here?"

"That's the question in life, isn't it?"

"Oh, don't start."

She looked at him from her cot. Smiling as she placed on her other boot. "Honestly, riding in the rear, I arrived late after the camp had been set up. I was told there weren't any more cots except for this tent."

Cullen lowered a brow and looked at her. "Who told you that?" She opened her mouth but froze. Realizing what she was about to say. And snapped her jaw shut. Cullen face palmed himself. "You've got to stop believing Varric."

"He's very persuasive." She chuckled to herself. "And in the know."

He sighed with a shake of his head. Slowly bending forward to put his own boots on. "What were you doing last night when I came in?"

"Meditating."

"I know that. On what? You were in pretty deep."

She paused before she spoke. "Soul searching."

"For?"

She pulled her furs into a stack and sat down. "You've read the report, aye? How I failed to kill the dragon?"

He lowered his brows but shot her a questioning look. She didn't. "What did you do? Or rather-"

She poked her fingers at his rage. "We had a conversation."

He covered his face to control his breathing. "Because of course."

"She said some things I didn't understand, so I convened with" she held her hands to her chest over her heart. Cullen shook her head for her finish. She clenched her hands over her chest and bit her lips. Her eyes wide at the statement she couldn't say out loud. He gave a look that demanded she start talking.

Wait- her heart. She collects dragon souls. She convened with-

Cullen's eyes went wide as he looked her over. He took a deep breath to ask but realized no question he could make right now would be intelligent. He covered his mouth with a hand and looked at her chest as she waited on his next move with a pained expression. Cullen rubbed his face and tried to turn to look at her but hissed as his leg lifted. "So you- you were- can- do" he waved a hand at her chest and had to rub his temples. He looked at the tent flap to make sure they were alone and lowered his voice. "You communicate with the souls is the slain?"

"Aye."

"That you hold."

"Aye."

"How are you not a blood mage?" He asked harshly as he covered his face. Does she not understand the implications? Or rather she does and is telling him and how is he not killing her already. Conversing with dragons? Dragon souls? For power.

"Oh please. Your own society doesn't even consider it blood magic if it's convenient."

He squinted at her with a heavy sigh. "Can you at least write down all these things you can do so it's not a surprise when I see it?"

"You can't read my writing." He snarled at her to meet him halfway or find a solution. She smirked and leaned forward with an evil plan. Cullen leaned back. "Sthun, what's a battle tongue?"

Memories filled his mind's eye of Nords standing before a fort in a wedge, each unleashing a shout and blowing the doors off. Warriors shouting to the sky to rain acid. A war cry that imbued them with speed in battle. A warm smile on Kynes face at her children's command of the winds. Silent in peace and loud in victory.

He shook his head and looked at her. Knowing the history of war and ruling. He pulled away from her knowing look. "Stop that."

"What is the history of dragon bor-"

He made a sound to interrupt her. "Enough." He shook his head to remove the face of Talos from his mind. "I get it."

"Perhaps these are words you should meditate on, Valok."

He kept the growl back but his "thanks" was still a grumble. He gave an angered look her over. "Anything else I should know?"

"Well, since you're no longer higher than a sky whale, you should probably know that Liliana knows. About the dragon." He lowered a brow. It's expected that she -"the whole story." He took a deep breath to breathe her. "But, we have an accord." She said quickly. "She won't say anything."

He lowered a brow at her. "I feel like I'm missing half the story for her to know or understand what the whole story is." Uthreida took a deep breath and revealed it to him. Pausing to gauge his understanding as well. Cullen sat quietly and tried to count the reasons why it was a bad idea to kill her now. Between controlling the dragon to flee the field, temporarily cleansed it of the blight, and now, conversing with an actual dragon. He pinched his nose as she finished. "Have you, are you, sympathizing with the dragon?"

She looked away slowly as if to consider it. But her pained look of guilt and the awkward smile, the tilt of her shoulders, the way she hid her hands in her lap, told him more than her words did.

Cullen face palmed himself and tried to breathe through the rage. She's an idiot and now, Liliana will know he's an accomplice. A damn thrall. "Why?" he asked lowly. "Why did you tell Liliana any of this?"

"Because she knows what will happen if anyone finds out." Her aloof tone only drove his anxiety.

He held a hand to his temples to soothe the migraine. "She intends to try you as a blood mage." He seethed.

"Aye."

His hands shook in frustration. "Why?"

She sighed heavily. "I was exhausted and there really wasn't a way for me to lie out of it. So, I told her the truth."

"Uthreida, that is reckless, irresponsible, and" he had to stop before he started shouting. "Do you ever think before you act?"

She paused and looked away in thought. "I want to say yes, but,"

"How-why-"

"She won't speak."

"How do you know that?" Uthreida leaned back in her cot. Something in her raised chin and poised shoulders. A determination in her eyes as she looked at him. She did something. Said something. And Cullen looked away in anger. "You are aware that she has been elected as Divine?"

She took an excited breath of surprise. "Congratulations."

He looked at her and a snarl curled on his lips. "What did you do?"

"We spoke."

"And you did what?"

"Lived." Cullen snorted at her short retorts. "If she had assassinated me, she knows the fallout that will come. But hasn't. So long as I hold true to my word, it should be fine."

"What makes you so sure?"

"Our agreement."

He ran a hand over his chin in frustration and paused. "When did I shave?"

She snorted at his change in conversation and smiled wider when she saw his confusion. "You really have no memory of last night?"

He looked away awkwardly. "Did I-" she shook her head. "Who shaved me then?" She held a hand at her chest. He looked her over suspiciously and she laughed again.

She sighed. "I suppose I could tell the story again. My da tried to train me for marriage, remember? It included shaving a man. Starting with pulled hides, then hides over a barrel, then himself. Though looking at the few spots I missed, I think it's safe to assume it's been a while." She moved to look under his jaw.

He ran his hand under his jaw and felt what she spoke of. He shook his hand. "No, go back, stop distracting."

She stood from her cot and pulled him into a stand. Her arms wrapped around his waist. "But I am distracting."

"No." He warned but she leaned up and kissed his throat regardless. "Stop that."

She leaned back and looked at him. "It's okay."

"It is not." He had to check his anger before he roared. "Utha" he ran a hand over his face with a heavy sigh. "What did you do? Honestly. What did you do?"

"I," she said slowly. Cullen arched a brow and knew she was trying to weasel her way around the question. He took a breath and was ready to cut her down. She met his gaze and sighed. "Do you remember how I forced you to speak the truth?"

"Yes."

She puffed her cheeks. "There is a reverse version where I can…compel-"

"Your lying." He said quickly. "Be honest. What did you do?" She looked away frustrated and he popped her chin to face him. "What, did you do to the Divine?"

She clenched her jaw and looked away. "I commanded her to never speak of it again."

Cullen ignored the fear that clutched at his heart. "You're an idiot."

Looked at him quality as if not hear him. "Ha?"

"How?" She kept her eyes adverted as she waved her fingers to her throat. Cullen sighed. "You are aware that you just proved her point. You just proved the allegations."

"No blood."

"Your blood-"

"No, I-"

"Dragons blood." He hissed, minding the cloth walls of the tent. She paused as she made the correlation. "Your blood."

"Ethically-" she held her hands wide to make an argument.

Cullen shook his hands in frustration to avoid choking her. "That's not how that works." He jut his jaw at her. "Depriving someone of free will is wrong. You will fix this."

"Cullen, listen-"

"No. I won't. If you didn't want her to tell, you shouldn't have said a damn thing. Your laziness has inspired fear in the Divine. And you will remove that command." He lowered his voice and growled at her. She took an inhale to argue and he stepped back. "No. Remove that command." She jutted her jaw. "Utha, do you not realize what you have done? You made her a slave. You've enslaved the Divine. For a woman who claims to be so against slavery, how quick you are to turn to it." He shook his head at her. "Think about it. You claim to want trade. You claim to want peace. But then strike fear in the most powerful woman in Thedas. You claim you want to trade, but what happens when she edicts that Andrastian countries cannot trade with heathens and pagans. What happens then? What happens when your people come here for honest trade. And how are her edicts starting whispering of her fear spread about the barbaric horde across the sea? Your people will be tarred and feathered in the street. What happens when you hear of what we've done to your people? You'll tar and feather or worse our people in Skyrim for trade. Petty and vindictive acts conducted back and forth until finally, she decrees that the Chant needs to spread to the four corners. Do you think a Templar and any good Andrastian citizen won't pick up a blade at that point for this Crusade? The new exulted march across the seas. Do you think they will stand back idly? They won't. That war you fear between our lands will come. All because you forced, or commanded. Or corralled or compelled the Divine to fear you." He pointed at her chest with a scoff. He hobbled back a step. "You need to fix this. End this. Today."

"Cull-"

"No. No buts, Cullen's, actually, technically, just fix it." She jutted a hip in anger. "You need to talk to her. An honest discussion."

"But then she'll know and tell Royoc-"

"Tell him what? You got yourself in this hole, start digging your way out." He snorted. "What you did was wrong and it needs to be addressed."

"You said so yourself. I've just proved her right and-"

"No. Enough." He took a breath to keep his voice low. "You need to fix this. You cannot live or rule or trade this way. Making slaves as you go. It's wrong and you know it is. You know the stories of tyrants whose slaves revolted. And enough slaves, crushed under the heel of fear and oppression, win their revolution." She chewed her lip and looked away. "Utha."

"I do not pause because you are wrong. I" she lowered her brows in thought. Bobbing her head at silent arguments in her head. After a few silent moments, she sighed. "You are right. In a way. Dragons are unchanging, immortal, and obstinate to their nature. That unyielding is what makes them attuned to time. Attuned to the world. For their nature and place is dominance. But as a mortal, I, we, have to change. We have to climb the tower. The gods cannot change, but we can. We must." She met his eyes to check her sanity but he only looked as confused as he felt. "You are right. If I do not want to be a priest, I cannot make slaves. It would be easy. Too easy. To force subjugations. Indomitable dominance to all. Doom driven." She shook her head at a thought. "How do I- How do I make this up?"

Cullen shook his head and grabbed his crutch. "Follow me."

"Now?"

"Now."

She didn't move. "What's the plan?"

He arched a brow. "Think I won't make a scene. Screaming. Letting you fall. Alone." She looked away with crossed arms. "Follow me." He said slower, shoving the tent flap aside. He turned to see her stamp to his side like a child throwing a tantrum. He leaned against his cane as they made their way across the camp. He used the wooden cane to hit the entry pole of the tent. "Nightingale." He tapped it three more times. He had to reach to grab Uthreida by the collar as she tried to run. Liliana opened the tent dressed in her leathers but her eyes only saw Uthreida. "Leli- your holiness. "

"Liliana." She corrected softly. Adjusting her sleeve. Still watching Uthreida with a steel gaze.

"New reports have come in." Cullen limped away and Liliana followed at a distance. "It would appear that some of the spies in the Arbors are being held behind and are being overrun by the red Templars still in the area."

"I have received no such reports."

Cullen hobbled his way away from the immediate tents for his intended conversation. "I'd imagine not." He turned and pulled Uthreida forward. She fought off his hands but he shoved her back. "Uthreida has something she'd like to say. An apology, to be specific." Uthreida dared to look at him like she was betrayed.

Liliana arched a brow between them. "I do not think this is-"

Cullen only looked at his wife. "Start," Uthreida growled and looked at Liliana. Her jaw clenching and thinking. "Well."

"I'm thinking."

"Of?"

"How to speak without lying." She rolled her eyes at him. She grunted and watched a Soldier as they passed. "I informed Cullen of our conversation." Liliana arched an annoyed brow. "And maybe he's right about a few points."

"A few?" He tilted his head at her.

She ran her tongue over her teeth. "He's right." She blinked back her annoyance and kept going. "What I did to you was wrong. On several levels. And I'm sorry I lost control of myself. I lost control of my own ethics. I'm sorry. However, the only way I can reverse it is to do it again to rescind the order."

Liliana lowered her brows and stepped back. Her jaw raised. "And why would I let you do that?"

"In order to remove, you have to be in a suggestive mind state. That's what it does. Makes you…receivable."

Liliana turned her hate to Cullen. "How long have you known?"

Cullen licked his lips and looked away. "A while, your holiness."

"And you never thought to bring it up?" She hissed. Watching another Soldier pass in the early morning.

Cullen felt the attack but breathed. "I didn't believe it at first. Now, I have no option but to. "

She shook her head at him. "If you think I'll so much as let her speak in my presence again-"

"Your holiness, if I may,"

She cut her hand in the air. "I will-"

"An ounce of mercy is always a virtue." Liliana snarled at the Divine Justina's decree. "Uthreida realized that she made an error. A continental error." Uthreida cut her eyes to him. Forcing him to stop taking. "The goal is peace. We both know that. The peaceful transition between our lands. However, her actions that night were piss poor, to say the least. We can variability make excuses for that day. Between the battle, a dragon, my falling in battle. Take your pick. However, her actions are not indicative of that of her people. I am willing to apologize for my lack of oversite in the situation. We've discussed it" he shot Uthreida a warning look, "and she will reverse what she did. In exchange," he took a breath, "I will answer any questions you have." He heard Uthreida swallow her reserve.

Liliana arched a brow at him. A ghost of a smirk on her lips as she took in Uthreida. "How do I know she'll do it? Get rid of it?"

He looked at Uthreida with a snarl. "Because she has no other option."

Liliana looked at her with a raised chin. "Will you do it? Remove it?"

Uthreida looked between the two. Her nose snarling but rationalizing her avenues. "Aye. I'll remove the compulsion."

Liliana looked at Cullen. "What safeguard can you provide?"

He looked at Uthreida with patience. "I can think of a few."

Liliana's eyes went to the command tent adjacent to them. "Ride back with me today, Commander. I have a few questions."

"Of course, Divine."

Cullen looked at Uthreida. Her eyes searched his in worry. She was his wife. Some of her secrets should be kept. But now that Liliana knows, there are only so many secrets he can keep now. Liliana stepped off the tent. Cullen took a breath and waited for Uthreida to follow. She dropped her eyes and followed the spymaster. Cullen hobbled after and she slowed to walk with him. "Don't worry, Utha. I'll do what I can."

"That is what I fear." She whispered as they walked.

He looked down at her to see her adverting her gaze. "Your right though, it's not technically blood magic. You should be safe."

She took a breath as they watched Liliana order the men out. "Not from her. Not anymore."

"This is the right thing to do. You know that."

"Ethically." She sighed. "But my chances of survival just dropped."

She held the tent flap back for him to enter. He looked her over and wanted to tell her he will try, but Liliana's eyes were on them. He entered first, this would be difficult to explain to her.

Xx

Cullen hobbled back to his tent. After the day's ride, his mandatory trip to the healer's tent to check his wounds, command meetings, and random conversations with captains as they were a week out from Skyhold, he needed to rest.

But alas.

Uthreida was outside his tent speaking to a few soldiers. Laughing as she was in the middle of a story. Apparently, a lewd one as she shushed them as he approached. The officers turned to see him and gave a respectful nod and walked off. He looked over her guilty smile with a comical smirk. "What are you doing?"

"They were complaining about how we didn't stop in the local village for the night. Between deserters they were complaining about and the wanted ale, I informed them why it was a bad idea."

"A personal story, I'd imagine."

"Aye."

He made a dismissive sound. "So, why are you outside of my tent?"

She looked around as if surprised that's where she ended up. "Oh, this is just where the conversation happened to happen."

He arched a knowing brow, shifting his cane to better rest his weight. "Not at all curious what Liliana and I discussed today?"

She looked away with a smile. "I mean, I have other reasons."

"Right." He stepped off to enter the tent. When she didn't move he turned to look at her.

She gave a confused look at his invitation to enter. "Aren't others in there?"

He looked at the vacated cots and tilted his head for her to enter. "The others made a complaint of my loud sleeping. Apparently, I talk."

"You do." She chuckled as she entered. "Rather a dangerous habit for a man in your position."

He scoffed as he threw his cane on the bed and his sword belt. He went without his armor today as it only added to the weight on his leg he was trying to heal. "At any rate," he was able to sit on his cot without assistance and rubbed his thigh.

Her black armor moved to sit on the crate at the foot of his cot. "So."

He tilted his head to see the opening and lowered his voice. He took a deep breath. "We spoke today about your…abilities. She had several questions that were well-meaning, I'm sure. However, I tried to keep the answers within the scope of…sensibility, rationality and trying to paint us both as not insane. Which I'm certain painted the exact opposite picture. That said, I reiterated that while you can" he raised his brows at her to indicate the missing word from the passersby of her folly, "but choose not to. That while an option is an easy way out. That between your failure in the field, my falling, and the battles, you were overcome with stress and acted irrationally either due to fear or guilt. Historically, those kinds of debriefings are to occur after twelve hours but not before seventy-two hours to allow the mind time to comprehend what just happened. You were not given even four hours of rest. It can be inferred that your mental state was equivalent to that of being drunk." He took a breath and met her eyes. She was smiling softly at him. "What?" She shook her head gently but rolled a hand to let him finish. "Right. Anyways, I then informed her that your intent has never been to create fear but rather for peace. When she then brought up your corralling of Royoc to deal with Du Lion. And I ran out of excuses. We both know he's a menace at this point, and while a good job on your end, doesn't paint a very good picture right now." He rubbed his neck. "She has not and will not swear to silence, but is aware that your people have this ability."

"Just me."

Cullen lowered a brow. "Excuse me?"

"About seven people, aside from me, can use the thu'um. Six are pacifists who use it for communing with the gods. One only knows one or two shouts because he was trained by those who commune with the gods."

He pulled his head back with a sense of relief taking his shoulders. "Only you?"

"That I know of, aye. Well, Miraak, but I wouldn't worry too much about him."

"Right. Point stands. She knows that it's technically not blood magic but is ethically close. So, do reframe from doing that again."

She nodded slowly. "So, can I use it against enemies?"

"No."

"Dragons."

His face pulled back in indecision. "With discretion. And with stipulations."

"Assholes?"

"No."

"Demons?"

He blinked slowly. "Do you want to be a blood mage or not?"

"No," she said with a sigh.

"Then no."

"But what if they really deserve it."

He pinched the bridge of his nose. "Utha." He warned lowly.

"So what's to stop her from asking me to do it to someone else under the threat of blackmail?"

He sighed. "It's a risk we now have to take."

She looked at him with a brow. "We?"

He looked her over and nodded. "Like it or not, I'm stuck with you now."

She shrugged casually. "I can think of worse fates." She smiled at him and lowered her eyes thoughtfully. "Do you think I'm crazy?"

"Don't make me answer that." She rubbed her neck with a smile. "Even if you are, I'm right there with you. So, it doesn't really matter what I think." She nodded slowly. He picked at a seam on his trousers as he could feel her mind working. "I hid what I could. The rest of it is going to fall on you."

She took a deep breath to center herself. "You know she's going to use this, right?" He tilted his head to fight the truth he knew. But sighed. "What's to stop her from assassinating me in my sleep?" She looked at him from a lowered face. "Can you ask her to place a blade in my hand first? So I may be received in Sovngarde."

He looked her over and smiled. "You can stay in here tonight."

She scoffed. "And tell them what?" She jutted her chin to the other cots. "That I might be a target." She smirked at the invitation. "And in your weakened state, it would make you a target as well. And I won't do that to you. Besides, what would we do with your leg still wounded?" A brow raised and her eyes darkened in lust for a moment.

He smiled and look away. "Not what I meant."

"And deprive these men of your midnight stories? Nah."

He shook his head in shame. "Then go get some rest."

She saluted mockingly. "By the way, you're starting to sound desperate."

He canted his head with a smile. "According to Varric and the complaints of the females, your midnight stories are just as dark as the bags under your eyes." Her smile dropped from her face. "I ask not out of desperation, but out of concern."

"Oh aye." She rolled her eyes and stood.

He smiled and knew he was onto something. "Why haven't you been sleeping?" Her eyes dropped to his leg quickly but looked on. She cared. She worried. A smile crested as he looked at her. Resting his cheek on a fist. "That's darling."

"May Vearmeina be kind, Commander." She stated in a stand.

"Oh, come now, just say it."

"Say what?"

He looked at her fluster masked in anger. She cared. He tapped his finger on the cot. He wanted her to say it. That she was scared. She cared. She was worried. But he looked away with a smile. "I suppose knowing is more comforting than hearing." He looked up at her and she averted her eyes. "Thank you."

"It's not just-" she sighed heavily and sat next to him on the cot. She leaned forward to hide her face from him. "I had a chance to kill her. The dragon. But I didn't take it. I had the chance to end it, but I used the wrong spell. One I knew wouldn't work, and" she shook her head at the self-depreciation of her actions. "Between failing, again, and now Leliana, and you, and whatever she was, I just,"

Cullen arched a brow at her. "The spell. The one that wouldn't work. Do you use it often against dragons?"

"Aye." She sighed softly.

He chuckled. "You relied on your training to act as your instincts. Best not to worry. It happens to the best of us." She looked at him in anger. He wasn't sure if she was expecting condescending or reprimand but blinked slowly. He pointed at his wounded leg. "Drills indicate it's strike, strike, parry, block, bash, strike, parry. The Red Templar cut my leg on the third strike. Quite apparent that I didn't train him. That said, he got in a lucky shot and sent all my training down the river." He smirked kindly. "How you train is how you perform in the field. You simply did as you were trained. And it bit you." He shrugged. "Don't worry about it. Make yourself better. And get some rest."

She looked him over slowly and silently before smiling to herself. Her shoulders relaxed slightly.

The tent opened and Captain Bronson stood in the doorway. Looking at the two. He locked eyes with Cullen and pointed to his cot awkwardly. Cullen tilted his head to let him enter. Cullen used the cane to help his stand. "We have a long ride tomorrow. Get some rest."

"Aye." She placed her fist to her forehead and bowed quickly. Turning on her heel and left the tent without another word.

Cullen hobbled to his chest and started to pull out his hygiene stuff when the Captain cleared his throat."Is everything alright, sir?" Cullen looked at the man who eyed the tent opening quickly than the cots. "We can leave."

"No, no. It's alright." The Captain chuckled quickly and returned to his purpose. Cullen lowered a brow, rolling a shirt in his hands at his actions. "What's funny?"

The Captain cleared his throat and smirked. "I was a Captain for the Barron of Umpitire in Navarre. On campaigns, we would make regular stops for wineings. It sounds nice, but he meant whores. Anyways, I'm laughing because, since working with the Inquisition for three months, even as we march with your wife, you've never stopped for wine. Or shared a tent." He gave a pained smile. "It has pros and cons. But, to see you deny your wife is a level of discipline I was not expecting. And it implies a level of discipline for those under your command." He nodded and turned back to his cot.

Cullen arched a brow at the captain with a small smile. "You know I was a Templar, right?"

"Yes, sir."

"Not stopping for wine. Is that a complaint or"

"No, no, I just ah" Captain Bronson turned to him and smiled. "So, wake up at dawn, with breakfast following, and on the road two hours after dawn, right?"

Cullen smiled at the abrupt change in conversation. "Correct."

"Right. Just wanted to make sure I told the men the correct information. Excuse me." He grabbed a bag and made a hasty exit of the tent. Captain Herron stood aside to let Bronson pass. Herron looked at Cullen with a dark brow. "He alright?"

"I have no idea." Cullen returned to his chest with a question on his tongue. He looked at Herron as he dressed down. His dark dreads fell over a shoulder as he bent over to rest his weapon. "Captain."

"Yes, Commander."

He paused before he asked. "On your previous military marches, how often did you stop for whores?"

He gave a deep laugh. Herron turned to look at him with a wide smile. "Isn't your…wife with us? Sir? Doesn't she slay dragons?"

"That's not-"

"I want to ask, but-" he held his hands up in surrender with a smile. "I don't think we're there yet, and, this is, ah."

"That's not what I meant."

"That's bold, sir."

"Not for me. I'm just curious if" Cullen sighed. "Never mind."

He laughed as he removed his armor. He gave a heavy sigh. "Why do you ask?"

He sniffed off the heated embarrassment. "I was a Templar for thirteen years. Stopping a march for whores wasn't exactly…standard practice. I'm curious if it is for other militaries."

Herron looked at him with a comical expression but shook his head. "I had a chevalier colonel that would stop at every farm hold on the way. Called it 'local welfare checks.' He was an old man. Half dead. Not much to look at. The men would have to stop formations for two hours so he could rut wives and daughters along the way. Paid each of them a single Royal when he was done." He removed his armor and set it aside. "The men's hearts in their throats as we passed their villages. Fearful for their wives, sisters, daughters. I remember writing to my wife to keep an eye for military men in formations. If they see a purple plume, to lock the doors, hide, don't make a sound. I've got three little girls at home. I teach them blade work when I can." He sniffed quickly and sat down. "Conversely, not stopping for whores increases the chance of rape or pregnancy in the ranks. Sad state of affairs, I'm afraid." He kicked off a boot. "Damned if you do, damned if you don't."

Cullen clenched his jaw as he looked at his trunk. "how many troops have you lost due to pregnancy?"

He puffed his cheeks in thought. "Six, before the march. One, since we started."

Cullen stood and tried to come up with alternatives. "What if we give the women preventives?"

"And say what, sir? No pregnancies in the ranks? Or that rape better not create life? Treat the females as marching whores?" He shook his head slowly. "Most of it goes unreported because they don't trust the chain that's conducting these atrocities. Besides, I don't think Andraste would agree with that. Let alone our marching Divine."

Cullen bit his tongue I thought. "Does create quite the paradox."

Herron leaned forward and rested his weight on his knees. "What brings this up?"

Cullen looked into his trunk and a slow blink. He was right. Even in Kirkwall, he wasn't aware of most of the instances because the mages didn't trust him. He thought of Uthreida who didn't stay with him to keep his focus on battle and not her. Even now as they march from battle. Was that normal in her culture? "Remind the soldiers that there is to be no whore stops when marching with the Inquisition. That if any of them feel like they are threatened or have been subject to sexual assault or rape, they are to report to their captains to transfer the Soldier, conduct the investigation, and punish the rapist to the fullest extent." He fisted his hands on the memories that haunted him. "It's been a while since we had to remind them."

Herron stood slowly from his cot. "Has someone been-"

"No, it's just" he lowered his brows. "We have new commands and I can't remember if it was discussed. I'll let you keep it at your level. If it gets to me, I'll have the Divine step in."

He gave a slow nod. "I'll put it out in the morning, sir."

"Thank you." Cullen hobbled back to his cot and removed his shirt.

"How're your injuries, sir?"

"Well." He stated quickly. "Healers say I'm healing faster than anticipated."

Herron chuckled as he removed his own shirt before bed. "Well, whatever your wife gave you, I'm glad to see it's working."

Cullen lowered a brow at him. Herron was the officer in charge at the ravine. He would've seen what happened. "What did she give me?"

"According to Private Mac Meadows, both of you drank from a few of her potions before sending you to camp."

"Yes, I read that report." He shrugged, a smile crossing his face. The report stated that she was controlling the field from the rear while healing him while crying. He looked over to see the captain lay down as Cullen washed up. "How are your men?"

He gave a slow shrug. "As to be expected. Even with the battle a little over a week and a half ago, several of them are still gripping the fact they killed not only one man but several." He gave a deep sigh. "They came to help but didn't realize what it actually meant. To join the ranks. Spill the blood of the Maker. It's never easy." He said softer, looking at his hand.

"True. We all want war to be this nice, clean thing. Wrapped pretty with a bow. Maybe a few flowers. Calling it honor when it feels like survival and blood sport. They never tell you that blood smells like the vomit in your throat."

Herron looked at him with a smirk. "They never mention the smell of piss before a battle either. It's always this poetic thing. The cawing of the ravens, their wings beating like the beat of a drum." Cullen chuckled at the analogy and dramatic rendition. "They never tell you how ugly survivalism is or what you have to do to achieve it. They don't mention losing your footing over the dead body of your friend."

"Watching a Templar look for their weapon because that was the arm that was cleaved off," Cullen stated formally. Watching the memory of Templars in the gallows.

"Having full-on conversation with the body next to them." Herron's voice was just as distant as he spoke.

Cullen looked over his shoulder at the Captain. "Is it our fault? For not warning them?"

Herron took a deep breath and shrugged. "Would it matter? Strip way the poetic honor of battle, what's left? Humans acting like animals? Using words like honor and orders to get some sleep at night." He shrugged again. "Even if we did tell them what to expect, even if they did understand, no one would admit to shitting their trousers when facing those red crystal giants."

"Did you?"

"Yes." He stated quickly and both laughed. "You?"

Cullen rubbed his neck. "There was some chaffing involved. My first time."

Herron laughed behind his gapped teeth. "Too much pride I think." He gave a deep sigh. "Best I can do, is remind them that…I don't know, fighting for a cause and all that."

Cullen chewed his lip as he put on a fresh shirt. "It's not just a cause. Ultimately, it's asking them what they are willing to die for. That simple definition defines their honor or willingness to get dirty. Irrevocably, it does seem odd. We're told we are swathed in the love of the Maker. To love our fellow man and in the same breath, wage war with ferocity."

Herron chuckled from his cot. "Sounds like a lamentation, Commander. Losing your heart already?"

"No. I'm just trying to see this from their perspective. The Soldier perspective."

"It's easy enough." Herron rolled on his side to look at Cullen. "Imagine getting in trouble each time you get into a fight with your siblings. Imagine being told to save face for each slight against you by someone who believes themselves better in fear of losing your home, family, or possessions. Living in a society of peace with the idea is war whispered in the winds. Where everyone wants to help but also has an excuse. Harsh life lessons are learned in war. Lessons not everyone wants to accept. Or learn firsthand. A side we like to pretend is bred out of us like dogs. So we turn to poetry and make it prettier for the masses. Hoping that in ignorance, an army will be raised."

"Meanwhile" Cullen sighed, "we have to rip down all notions of a peace with promises of peace and then contend with desertion."

"Well, it's the ninety ten rule, isn't it?" Cullen arched a confused brow. "Ninety aren't even supposed to be there."

Cullen smiled. "No, I believe the quote is, out of a hundred, ten aren't supposed to be there, eighty are fodder, nine could storm the gates of the Black City, but it only takes one to raise them all up."

Herron smiled and Cullen felt like he missed part of the conversation. "Yes. Terrible lot. When diplomacy dies, war is born." Cullen looked over at the Captain, nodding at the wisdom. "Word of advice, find peace where you can. My grandfather was a commander during the occupation. When the war ended, he died two months later. The man just didn't know what to do with himself in peace." He gave a quick wave and rolled on his other side to get some sleep.

Cullen finished his washing and heard the soft snores of the Captain next to him.

"Permission to enter."

Cullen jerked his head up and looked at the tent. "Enter."

A soldier around his age looked around quickly. "Captain Herron."

The Captain snorted awake and looked about. Seeing the Soldier at the door. Dragging himself out of bed and stood. "Yes, sergeant."

"I was told to come get you."

The Captain sighed and grabbed his shirt. "What happened now?"

"It's Lucas, sir." Herron rolled his hand for more information as he put his boots on. "He was conducting his patrol when he interrupted a card game. Some of the chevaliers were drinking and laughing loudly. They're currently holding him hostage until you report to the commander." The Soldier looked at Cullen with a brow. "The commander awaits your presence."

Cullen ticked his jaw. Chevalier Gustauve keeps extending his authority. Cullen grabbed his boots with a smirk. "Let me guess. Fat old man. White curling beard and with all three of his chins exposed?"

"That's the one."

Cullen looked at Herron with a smirk. "Take it slow for the gimp, will you."

"Shall we, commander." Herron stood and strapped on his weapon.

"With pleasure."

Captain Herron smiled widely while pulling his dreads back over his shoulder and off his back. "I love the army."