*Hello! I've completed the second chapter to this. I wasn't expecting to get it done so quickly, but here it is! I hope you all like it. I'm not sure what direction I'm going to take this in, who Brithari is going to be friends with, and what choices she's going to make, but that's the fun of writing isn't it? Let me know what you all think and I will see you all in the next chapter!*

Chapter 2

As I strode from the small house, I found most of the town still asleep. The dawn was only just beginning to peak over the horizon. I decided to walk around and learn the town and its outskirts. I strapped my staff to my back and headed towards the main gate. I slipped out of the gate, immediately on alert for anything out of the ordinary.

I could hear some of the soldiers stirring in their tents, getting ready for the day. One particular soldier caught my eye and I approached Commander Cullen, who stood at the edge of the lake, admiring the rising sun on the horizon.

"Good morning Commander," I called, watching as he glanced over his shoulder at me. "Enjoying the sunrise before training begins?"

"I suppose. As much as I can with that thing hanging in the sky still." He turned to face me, his hand extended. "Bri, I'd like to offer an apology to you. We were under a lot of stress, but that does not excuse my behavior towards you."

I accepted his handshake, giving him a smile. "Perfectly fine, Commander. I'm glad that you came to your senses. I thought I was going to get the cold shoulder forever ."

Cullen chuckled, shaking his head. "You know, when Cassandra told me that you had a sense of humor, I thought she was playing with me."

"She wasn't. I have a very bad tendency to laugh at the worst of times and make inappropriate jokes." I looked around, taking in the countryside. "Would you mind walking with me Commander? I've yet to see outside the gates of Haven and should probably acquaint myself with the lay of the land."

"Of course." He motioned down the path to the right. "The recruits will still be waking and training will not begin for another hour or so."

"You are putting them through their paces so I heard. Where are the recruits coming from?"

"All around. Most of them are refugees who wish to fight for their homes and their land. Others saw the destruction of the Conclave and others still have heard word that the Herald of Andraste has come to save us and wish to serve in Andraste's name."

I sighed, the snow crunching under my boots. "I am not touched by Andraste. Surely you must understand that?"

"I understand that you give the people and my soldiers hope. Is that not enough?"

"If it keeps morale high, I will not contradict or correct others. But I will never claim to be touched by Andraste." I caught the twinkle of a fire out of the corner of my eye. "What's that over there?"

"I'm not sure. Do you want to check?"

With a nod, I strode forward down the path, pushing snow covered branches out of the way to reveal a small cottage nestled back against a rock face. "Did you know this was back here?"

"No, I didn't. It looks to be deserted if you want to go in."

"You know what they say about curiosity." I pushed the door open, glancing around. "Anybody home?"

Cullen and I searched the house, finding no sign of any occupants. We did, however, find some notes made by an alchemist. Cullen read over them before handing them back to me. "You should take that to Adan. I'm certain he could make something out of this."

"Adan is the alchemist of Haven I'm assuming?"

"Alchemist turned apothecary, yes. Would you like to continue walking? It looked as though there was a path behind the house."

"Yes, let's keep moving. I need to build back my strength. It's amazing how quickly it disappears after an illness."

"It is." We walked in silence for a bit before Cullen asked, "So, where did you come from?"

"Like Solas, I am an apostate."

"But you're Dalish."

"Sort of. I was born to a Dalish clan, but when my magic manifested at age nine, I was cast out. No other clans could take me in."

"At nine years old you were sent into the world?" Cullen sounded incredulous at that prospect.

I chuckled, knowing how absurd it sounded to an outsider. "Yes. Most Dalish children, when cast out, will starve or freeze. Some make it to the Circles, some become slaves to Tevinter."

"But you did neither of those." We rounded the hill, heading for a dock overlooking the frozen lake. "How did you survive?"

"I was very lucky in the beginning," I confessed, sitting down at the end of the dock, kicking my legs back and forth. "It was early spring when I was cast out. That means that I had most of the spring, an entire summer and fall to gather enough supplies to survive the winter. I'd watched the elders of my clan enough to be able to find and create a makeshift shelter.

"I discovered a small cave that was uninhabited; too small for a wolf or bear, too shallow for a deepstalker to feel comfortable in, and too high up for a nug to reach. I killed a bear using a tree and some of my magic. At that time, I was clumsy and untrained. But, it worked and I had a bear pelt to use for warmth and meat to cure and eat."

"You're no longer clumsy or untrained. Based on what Cassandra has told me, you are quite the capable mage." Cullen looked over at me, a frown on his face. "You won't be susceptible to demons, will you?"

I shrugged. "I don't practice the same magic that your Circle mages do. I've never had a Harrowing, never summoned anything, and I have no intention to. The likelihood of my getting possessed is very low compared to other mages."

"How did you learn magic if you lived in a cave?"

"I didn't live in the cave forever and my curiosity got the better of me." I smiled to myself, remembering how I had learned my magic. "I began experimenting, testing the limits of how far I could push myself. I could manipulate ice, storms, and fire, but I felt most comfortable with storms. Something about a lightning spell makes me feel alive. Have you ever felt that way, Commander Cullen?"

"Loads of times. Almost every time I pick up a sword and shield." He sighed, looking out over the lake. "Speaking of which, it looks like I may have to go and pick one up soon. We'll continue this conversation though, won't we? You've got me curious."

"Of course." I jumped down from the dock, landing cat-like on the ice. "I'll race you across."

"No fair! You got a head start!"

Cullen beat me across the ice by a stride and a half and I stood in the snow, panting as I tried to catch my breath. He gave me a smile and I could tell that he was trying to catch his breath as well.

"Well won, Commander Cullen. It seems I must regain some of my speed if I am to beat you." I straightened up, inhaling deeply. "Good luck and good day to you."

"Maker guide you, Bri."

I stopped by the blacksmith, speaking with him for a bit before heading back into the town. As I walked up the stairs to the second level of Haven, I felt the hair on the back of my neck stand up. I looked to my right and spotted Solas sitting outside on a stone wall, watching me.

'Like a wolf watches it's prey,' I thought to myself, heading towards him. 'I wasn't expecting him to be up this early, but I'd rather speak to him now instead of waiting.'

"Good morning!" I called as I got close. "How are you this fine morning?"

"Better than a few days ago," Solas replied, standing up from his place on the wall. "Do you have some time this morning?"

"I can spare a bit, yes. Then I must speak with the Seeker about our next plan of action."

"Of course. Come, let us go inside."

'Away from prying eyes and ears I'm assuming?' I thought to him, following him inside.

'Exactly. Two elven apostate mages speaking with one another in hushed tones openly is not a sight that the people of Haven will approve of.'

He pulled the chair at the table out for me, gesturing for me to sit. I did, crossing one leg over the other, watching him intently. Solas sat across from me, clasping his hands together. I couldn't contain myself any longer.

"Where were we last night?"

"The Fade," he replied. "Where did you think that we were?"

"I...thought we were in Haven. It felt so real. I dreamed that?"

"Yes. I thought I would let you have the experience of walking the Fade with me." He gave me a smile. "I hope you enjoyed it."

"I did. It was wonderfu. May we do it again?"

Solas shrugged. "If you wish. I have no problem teaching an open mind how to walk in the Fade while sleeping. But there are other questions that you wish answered, are there not?"

"There are. Everything you said to me last night, it was all true?"

"Every word. I know that I have been painted as a liar and a trickster, but you must believe me when I say that I would not lie to you." He paused, looking at me curiously. "You have not eaten this morning, have you?"

"No, but I am not hungry," I lied, cursing my stomach as it growled loudly.

Solas chuckled, rising from the table to grab a loaf of bread. He handed me a piece and I waited until he was sat at the table once more before I began to eat.

"How long have you watched over me?"

"Since you were a child and found one of my stone idols in the Emerald Graves and spoke to it."

"I was only five when that happened! My mother was thoroughly upset with me for that. Scolded me for over an hour."

"Yes. And you refused to listen to her words and stories. You were a very willful five-year-old."

"I couldn't comprehend how people could believe him- you- to be a bad person without any evidence. Stories change over the years and are twisted. I knew even then that stories changed, if only because I had heard the same story told five different ways by three different people."

"You were wise." Solas beamed in approval. "You are cut from a different cloth than the Dalish, Brithari."

I nodded. "I will agree with that statement. Do you say this because you dislike the Dalish or because you have seen something in me that is not in the others?"

"Both." He rose from the table, beginning to pace. "I have watched you grow and mature. I saw how they cast you out, watched as you stumbled to find your footing in this world. I have kept watch over you when you were ill, guided you when you were lost, protected you when you could not defend yourself. I dislike the Dalish because of how they have forgotten themselves and their past and have twisted it to fit their liking. They have destroyed everything that our people once stood for."

"They could be taught," I replied, leaning back in my chair. "They need guidance. Someone to show them the right path to walk. You could do that."

"I cannot," Solas' voice was bitter and he looked down at the floor. "They would not believe me. I am the Betrayer, the Dread Wolf. My name is a curse to all elves."

"It is not!" I rose from the table, taking his hand. "I have never in my life believed the stories. If I can be created, others like myself can be too. We can spread the word, change their minds, tell the true story!"

I could see the pain in his eyes as he met my gaze. "I...would like that. But first we must close this Breach."

"I agree. Until that thing is out of the sky, we will be unable to hold the attention of the people, both elf and human alike." I realized I was still holding his hand and I let go, feeling ashamed that I had touched him without his blessing.

"Why?"

"Why what?" I asked, tucking my hand in my pocket.

"Why are you ashamed that you touched me?" He removed my hand from my pocket, giving it a squeeze. "It is nothing to be ashamed of."

"But you are a God and I...I am a mortal, unfit to touch the likes of you."

"You are more than a mortal, Brithari. You are my last follower and the most devout I have met." He stared down at me, a smile on his face. "I did not plan on revealing myself to you. I had wished to keep it secret. But when I felt your soul drifting closer to the Fade, unconscious in that cell, I had to reach out to you. I could have lied to you when you heard my voice, told you that I had made an educated guess as to who you worshiped based on your vallaslin. I could not find it within myself though."

"Why not?" My breath was a whisper as I found myself staring into his eyes, seeing so much wisdom and pain in them. "If you had intended to keep it hidden, why could you not lie to me?"

"Because you loved me and trusted me. It would make me a poor God if I ignored my people. Or person, as is the case."

I broke into a smile. "I am glad you made the choice to put your trust in me, Fen'Harel."

To my surprise, he pulled me into a hug, holding me close to him. "As I said last night, you have a beautiful soul, mir falon."

"Mir falon?" I questioned, stepping away from him.

"My friend. I must teach you elvish. You are missing so much in this world being unable to speak it." Solas turned towards the door. "The Seeker is searching the town for you. Go and find her. We will speak soon."

I exited quickly, looking around to see if anyone had noted my departure. I headed for the Chantry of Haven, hearing Cassandra speaking to what sounded like Varric about my whereabouts. I heard the conversation stop and continued walking until Cassandra called my name.

I turned just outside of the Chantry doors to watch her walk towards me. There was a look of worry on her face.

"Where have you been? I've scoured the entire town looking for you!"

"I was wandering the hills this morning with Commander Cullen. Then I went to get something to eat. I heard you calling and thought you to be at the Chantry." The lie was easy and I could tell that she believed it as her shoulders relaxed. "I'm sorry, Seeker. I didn't mean to worry you."

"It is fine. Come, we must go and speak with the others." She pushed the door open to the Chantry and I followed behind her, keeping stride. "Does it trouble you?"

"What? Oh, the Anchor?" I wiggled my fingers, opening and closing my fist. "Not really. It gives an odd tingle up and down my arm, but nothing like it was."

"The Anchor?" Cassandra asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Yes. I thought I would call it that as it seems that it is permanent and adds weight to my shoulders that was not there before. I wish I knew where it came from, but I suppose we'll find out soon enough."

"What's important is your mark is now stable, as is the Breach. You've given us time, and Solas believes that a second attempt might succeed- provided the mark has more power. The same level of power used to open the Breach in the first place." Cassandra sighed heavily. "That is not easy to come by."

"Oh, an adventure! What harm could there possibly be in powering up something we barely understand?" I rolled my eyes. "Why don't we try throwing some goats at it while we're gathering resources? Maybe it's hungry?"

Cassandra let out a low laugh. "Hold on to that sense of humor. It seems that we will need it in the coming days."

I followed her into the room from the previous day that had housed Roderick. The table was cleared of books and papers, revealing a map of Orlais and Ferelden. I glanced over it, picking out the bigger cities with ease.

"You've met Commander Cullen, the leader of the Inquisition's forces."

"Once or twice." I gave him a nod. "How are you feeling after our run this morning?"

"Fairly good seeing as I beat you despite your attempt at cheating."

Cassandra cleared her throat, looking between the two of us. "This is Lady Josephine Montilyet, our ambassador and chief diplomat."

"Andaran Atish'an."

"You're about to be shocked, but I have no idea what you said. You know how to speak elven, but I have no clue"

"You've heard the entirety of it, I'm afraid. If I knew more I would be happy to teach it to you."

"And of course, you know Sister Leliana."

"My position here involves a degree of-"

"She is our spymaster."

Leliana sighed. "Yes. Tactfully put, Cassandra."

"Well, it's lovely to meet all of you. It doesn't seem like we're here to share tea and cake however, so why don't we get down to business?"

"I mentioned that your mark needs more power to close the Breach for good," Cassandra replied.

"Which means we must approach the rebel mages for help."

"And I still disagree," Cullen said to Leliana, his gaze hardening. "The Templars could serve just as well."

"We need power, Commander. Enough magic poured into that mark-"

"Might destroy us all." Cullen snapped, cutting off Cassandra. "Templars could suppress the breach, weaken it so-"

"Pure speculation," Leliana countered, eyes narrowing.

"I was a Templar. I know what they're capable of."

I leaned back against a bookshelf, watching as they bickered among themselves.

"Unfortunately, neither group will even speak to us yet." Josephine cut in, trying to subdue the fighting. "The Chantry has denounced the Inquisition- and you, specifically."

Rolling my eyes, I approached the table. I stabbed my finger at the point on the map outside of Haven where the Breach had ripped open the sky. "You mean to tell me that they still believe that I am guilty and are ignoring the giant hole in the sky? Are they blind or are they stupid?"

"That is not the entirety of it any longer," Josephine attempted to soothe me. "Some are calling you- a Dalish elf- the 'Herald of Andraste'. That frightens the Chantry."

"Maybe they should do a bit of research then. I am not Dalish. I was born to a clan, yes, but I was cast aside like dirty clothing!" I could feel my face beginning to flush and I took a deep breath, trying to calm my temper. "I would quell the rumors myself, but that would divide the people and drop morale, things that we cannot afford right now."

"Yes, well, the remaining Clerics have declared it blasphemy, and we heretics for harboring you."

"Chancellor Roderick's doing, no doubt." There was a hint of disgust in Cassandra's voice.

"It limits our options," Josephine explained. "Approaching the mages or templars for help is currently out of the question."

I sighed, rubbing my temples. "Will the Chantry attack us? Do I need to be worried about burning at the stake?"

"With what forces?" Cullen leaned against the table and I could tell that he was growing irritated. "They only have words at their disposal."

"And yet, they may bury us with them."

The room grew silent as I tried to come up with some idea. Leliana finally broke the silence. "There is something you can do. A Chantry Cleric by the name Mother Giselle has asked to speak to you. She is not far, and knows those involved far better than I. Her assistance could be invaluable."

"Hmmm. I suppose it wouldn't hurt to see what she has to say. It also gives me something to do. Where is she?"

"You'll find Mother Giselle tending to the wounded in the Hinterlands near Redcliffe."

"I've heard of that place. Not much there except mountains, hills, and a few ruined buildings."

"While you're there, look for other opportunities to expand the Inquisition's influence." Cullen gave me a smile. "It'll help build your strength back up."

"Like what?"

"We need agents to extend our reach beyond this valley and you're better suited than anyone to recruit them."

"In the meantime, let's think of other options." Cassandra gave me a glance. "I won't leave this all to the Herald."

"So, when do we leave?"

I scanned the letter from Scout Harding for a third time as we sat in our camp. It had been two days of hiking trying to reach the Hinterlands. Solas, Cassandra, and Varric had all insisted that they come with me and it had proven to be an interesting trip. Solas had told me about some of the ruins on our journey and I'd found myself fascinated by the stories. Watching Varric and Cassandra's banter had also been amusing. They bickered like an old married couple. Solas and I had both exchanged glances and smirks at their arguments.

Now we had settled down for the night, another half a day from arriving in the Hinterlands. It was my turn to keep watch, the Breach swirling over our heads.

'We avoided the fighting as best we could - it's every bit as bad as we'd feared. The apostates are mad, attacking anything that moves, and it appears that the templars here aren't following anyone's orders any longer.'

I sighed, knowing that having to fight both parties would prove to be a challenge in and of itself. I could hope that the apostates would listen to reason, as Solas and I were both considered apostates, but if they were as angry as Scout Harding perceived, I doubted that they would.

I glanced over at the other three, watching as they slept soundly in their bedrolls. I decided that I would go off a little ways and practice with the staff. It had been a long time since I had handled one. Most of the time I cast magic using my hands, as staffs were hard to come by and even harder to craft out in the wilds.

I stood at the very edge of the fire's warmth, keeping an eye and ear out for bandits or wolves. I drew my staff from my back, wielding it in front of me. I practiced a few overhead twirls and got comfortable with its weight and size. I'd forgotten how unwieldly they could be when you didn't practice with them on a consistent basis.

Once I felt comfortable with some basic movements, I paused, closing my eyes and taking a few deep breaths. My muscles were aching, but I knew that was from lack of use. When I opened my eyes, I found myself face to face with Solas.

"What are you doing?" I hissed, stumbling backwards.

"It seems silly for you to practice on your own. You gain nothing from it except for poor technique."

"And you're an expert in technique?"

Solas smirked, drawing his own staff. "There's a cluster of trees where our magic will be hidden from Cassandra and Varric. If you'd like to see my technique that is."

"Seems a bit of an unfair fight." I began to walk towards the cluster of trees that Solas had indicated. "You are a God after all, Fen'Harel."

"That I may be, but I have been out of practice for nearly a thousand years. Let's say that we are more evenly matched than you may believe."

I took the left side of the clearing, watching as he took the right. We both drew our staffs, circling each other. He cast the first spell, an ice blast. I blocked it easily, sending it into a tree behind me. I became inundated with ice blasts, one flying after another. I managed to block most and even got a couple of my own lightning bolts cast.

A spell of his caught me square in the chest and I felt my body lock up. I closed my eyes, the magic running through me. The ice exploded outwards and I rushed forward, twirling my staff out in front of me. A sting of pain ran up my arms as my staff met Solas'. We began to push against one another, feeling the surge of power between the two of us.

I felt the magic gathering up inside of my chest and I could tell that he was building up his as well. He was grinning from ear to ear as we circled one another, our staffs locked together.

'Who will give first?' He thought to me and I felt his power wash over me, trying to get me to crumble.

'Not me, that's for certain,' I thought back, throwing my own will against his, watching as his eyes widened with surprise. 'You weren't expecting me to push back?'

"I was expecting it, yes," he murmured, his eyes never leaving mine. "I was not expecting how strong that push would be."

With that he broke the hold and I stumbled forward. He caught me around the waist, helping me regain my balance. The magic was ebbing away once more, returning back to where it had come from.

I looked up at him, frowning. "Why did you stop?"

"Because the dawn is coming and the others will be waking soon."

"You're lying."

"Yes."

I sighed, shaking my head. "Were you worried you would hurt me? Because you wouldn't have. I'm tough enough to take it."

"That wasn't it at all." I realized that Solas' hand was still resting on my hip. "I...couldn't bring myself to strike out at you."

"Hesitation will kill you if you're not careful."

"I know it will." He reached up to brush a strand of my hair from my face, tucking it tenderly behind my ear. "Brithari, may I speak freely?"

"Of course."

"I...am not certain how to begin this. I have been alone for so long and to have someone who cares for me is different. I apologize if I act strange towards you or if I...if I overstep my bounds."

I stepped a bit closer to him, looking up into his face, seeing the pain there. I touched his cheek, watching as he winced. "I trust you, Solas. I-"

"Bri? Solas?" Varric called. "Where are you?"

Solas sighed, stepping away from me. "We're over here. Brithari heard some wolves and woke me to assist her."

We walked back to the camp, finding Cassandra and Varric packing up and preparing to move. Cassandra cast us a curious glance, but said nothing. Varric on the other hand, decided to tease the both of us.

"So, what were you two really doing out there?"

"It's like Solas told you. I heard wolves and I wanted someone to help me in case I should run across them."

"Why didn't we hear them then?"

"Perhaps because you were snoring so loud?" Solas replied.

I chuckled. "I'm surprised the wolves even came near, seeing as he sounds like a bear!"

"Alright you two, I get it. I snore." Varric rolled his eyes. "I see it's going to be one of those days where you pick on the dwarf."

"You'll be fine," I teased, patting him on the head. "We'll go easy on you today."

Solas and I rolled up our bedding and strapped it to our backs. We began to hike in the direction of the Hinterlands. By mid-day, we had spotted the camp of the Inquisition. I was the first up the hill, confronted by a dwarven scout.

"Good afternoon. We were wondering when you would arrive. I'm Scout Harding."

"Hello." I gave her a smile. "My name's Brithari. We heard that you could use some help."

She nodded. "Like I said in my letter, it's bad. The apostates and the templars are at each other's throats and Mother Giselle is stuck between them. She has been tending to those who have been wounded, but we can't keep fighting both sides."

"It's why we're here. We-" I paused, hearing shouting and screams for help. "Is that the fighting?"

"Oh no. They've gotten to the Crossroads. I don't have enough people to-"

I didn't catch the rest of her sentence as I was plunging headlong down the road towards the fighting, Solas and the others close behind as we headed towards the battle taking place.

I rushed in, casting spells at anyone who wore the Templar armor. It angered me that they would even think attacking civilians was acceptable. One got too close and I managed to dodge away, but not before he sliced my upper arm open. I bit down on the pain, casting chain lightning, watching as it jumped from the man in front of me to another one who was bearing down on Varric.

As he was paralyzed, I grabbed his sword, shoving it into the gap between his armor. He went down without a sound and I turned my attention to a mage that was trying to overwhelm Cassandra by rapid-casting ice spells. I felt the energy building up in my chest and I unleashed it, watching as a small storm appeared out of nowhere, lightning striking Cassandra's foe long enough for her to deal a killing blow.

"Brithari, look out!"

I turned to see a large Templar knight bearing down on me, murder in his eyes. Without a word, I dropped to the ground in front of him. He tripped over my now prone form, going sprawling face first into the dirt. I leapt to my feet, using my staff as a bludgeoning weapon, striking him in every soft spot I could to keep him down. He was too close to give me time to cast a spell without getting hit and the others were occupied with their own opponents.

The man managed to regain his senses and he grabbed me by an ankle, yanking me down to land flat on my back. The wind was knocked out of me and I struggled to catch my breath. A heavy boot landed on my chest, driving whatever breath I had regained out of my lungs. Still, I struggled to get him off me. The point of his sword pressed to my throat and I closed my eyes, preparing myself for death.

But it never came. Instead, the man froze solid from head to foot, a look of surprise on his face. He and his sword crumbled into chunks and I shoved them off me, finding Solas standing next to me, offering his hand. He helped me to my feet and I realized that the battle for the Crossroads had concluded, leaving wounded Inquisition soldiers and terrified townsfolk in its wake.

"Are you alright mir falon?"

"Fine."

"You're bleeding!" Solas reached into his belt for a potion bottle. "Here, drink."

I shook my head, taking the potion bottle from him, going to one of the villagers who had been caught in the middle. I knelt next to them, uncorking the bottle, pressing it to their lips. They drank it greedily and I watched as their chest wound faded, replaced by new flesh. Solas watched in disapproval as I rose, handing him his bottle back.

'Why would you do that? You are hurt!'

I sat down on a stone wall, rummaging through my pack for a piece of cloth to tie the wound on my arm with. 'Because they needed it more than I did. They would have died without it, whereas my wound is superficial.'

"Bri, are you alright?" Varric asked, sauntering up to us, Bianca slung over his shoulder. "I heard Solas say something about blood."

"I'm fine." I said, voice muffled as I finished tying the cloth with my teeth. "It's only a scratch. I can get more potions once we resupply at camp."

"What if it was poisoned?"

"Varric, do you think that Templars would waste their time with poisoning their blades?"

"Well, no, but-"

"Brithari!" My head snapped up to find Cassandra standing next to a Chantry sister. "If you are done catching your breath, come."

I rose from my seat, groaning slightly at the ache in my arms and lower back. I headed up the hill to join Cassandra and the other woman. I gave a small bow, watching as the Chantry sister acknowledged my presence with a nod of her head.

"You must be the one that they call the Herald of Andraste."

"I am. But I would prefer if you called me Bri. Were you hurt in the battle?"

The woman shook her head. "I was not. But many others were. There are not enough supplies for the wounded here and I can only do so much without proper healers."

"What do you need?"

The woman gave me a sad smile. "I need things that you cannot give to me, Bri. Tell me, why is it you've come?"

"Leliana said that you may be able to help with the Chantry issue that we're facing. It seems that those who help the Inquisition are heretics."

"So I have heard. And you are blasphemy in their eyes."

"I could care less what they think of me," I replied, eyes scanning the village as they began to help one another rebuild. "I have been called worse."

"I can see." She stepped up next to me, watching as I did. "I have been called many things in my time as well. May I give you some advice?"

"Of course. Advice has never hurt me in the past."

"Some of the Sisters are grandstanding, hoping to increase their chances of becoming the new Divine. Some of them are terrified, so many good people taken from us."

"I don't remember what happened, but what I saw was horrible." I frowned. "What I continue to see is horrible. So much death and destruction."

"Fear makes us desperate, but hopefully not beyond reason. Go to them. Convince the remaining clerics you are no demon to be feared."

"But I am an elf and an apostate. In their eyes, I may as well be."

"You are right, but they have heard only frightful tales of you. Give them something else to believe."

"You want me to try to convince them and change their minds?"

"What do you have to lose? If I thought you were incapable or it were a trap, I would not suggest it." She gave me a small smile. "Their power is in their voice. Unified, they are strong. But if you can cast a shadow of doubt over some of them, they will lose their power and you will receive the time you need to fix this chaos."

I nodded. "I will go. I've never been to Val Royeaux before, but perhaps it is time to broaden my horizons. Tell me, Mother Giselle, what can we do here to help the people of the Hinterlands?"

"There are many here who are cold, hurt, or ill. Many still go hungry. Anything you or the Inquisition can provide would help."

"I'll do what I can." My gaze fell on Cassandra, Solas, and Varric helping townsfolk. "We will do what we can."

"You are kind, Bri. Be safe and may the Maker protect you."

I bowed, heading down the hill to my companions. They were huddled together, talking amongst themselves. They all stopped when I approached.

"Please, don't stop talking on my account."

"Brithari, you're still bleeding." Solas produced another potion. "Will you please take this instead of giving it to someone else?"

I looked down, seeing the blood trickling down my forearm. "I didn't realize I was still bleeding. Were any of you hurt?"

"No, we all came out unscathed, minus yourself." I took a swig of potion as Cassandra spoke. "Where do you wish to go from here?"

"The letter mentioned something about a Master Dennet. I think getting horses for our growing army would be a good idea. I also think we should take some time to try and get supplies together for the villagers here."

"Let's not forget about the apostates and the Templars," Varric interjected. "They'll continue to attack the Crossroads unless we destroy their camps."

"Perhaps we can reason with them."

"Solas, did these people who attacked seem reasonable to you?" Cassandra challenged.

"No, but if Brithari and I-"

"They can't be saved. I saw the bloodlust in that Templar's eyes when he had the sword at my throat. And the mages are too frightened to understand that we are not with their enemy." I let out a deep sigh, wincing at the pain in my chest. "Night is coming. The Crossroads will be fine until the morning at least. Let's return to camp, go over the maps and come up with a plan for tomorrow. And if there is a river or stream, I will soak myself in it before bed."

We headed back up towards the camp and I found that there was a stream around the corner from where we were staying. Cassandra and I went over the map, Varric and Solas contributing their ideas as well. We decided that we would return to the Crossroads in the morning and check on the townsfolk before heading to the northwest in the direction of Master Dennet's farm.

When we finished, it was dark and the fire was dying down. I went to my tent and stripped out of my armor down to my simple tunic and breeches. I slipped from the back of the tent, heading to the stream, using the moonlight to guide my way.

I found the stream without incident and took off the rest of my garments, hanging them on the branch of a tree. I winced at the bruising on my chest in the form of a heel print and the scab of the cut on my arm. I'd taken the potion a little too late, so it hadn't healed the wounds completely. While there was no pain, they were still visible.

I stepped into the water, shuddering at how cold it was. My body adjusted fairly quickly and I walked deeper until I was up to my neck. I sunk beneath the water, allowing the current to tug at me, my white hair floating around me like a halo. I kicked up to the surface, taking a deep breath.

"May I join you Brithari?"

I bit down on a yelp of surprise, looking around for Solas. I spotted him leaning up against a tree, wearing nothing but a loincloth. I tried to cover myself as best I could, a blush rising up in my cheeks.

"Solas, what are you doing here?" I demanded, sinking deeper into the water. "I was hoping to get a private bath!"

"I apologize. I will leave if you wish."

"No!" He raised an eyebrow and I cursed my forcefulness. "As long as you stay far enough away where you cannot see me unclothed, you may join."

I couldn't help but notice the smirk on his lips as he sauntered towards the water, slipping in without so much as a wince at the cold. He began to bathe himself and I stole glances out of the corner of my eye at his unclothed form.

"See something that you like, Brithari?"

My heart leapt to my throat and I turned away, scrubbing at some dried blood on my forearm. "I don't know what you're talking about."

"I saw you looking at me." I could hear the satisfaction in his tone at having caught me. "I ask again, do you see something that you like?"

"And if I did?"

I was surprised when warm arms wrapped around my waist, pulling me tight against him. "I would say that I saw something as well. Something rare and beautiful."

I leaned into him, feeling him inhale sharply at the movement. His grip on my waist tightened and I turned to face him, wrapping my arms around his neck, pressing my naked form against his. His lips hovered over mine, a whisper away. He reached up to cup the back of my neck and-

"Brithari? It is time to wake."

I let out a groan as I opened my eyes, finding Cassandra standing over me. I sat up, shaking my head. "How did I get here?"

"We were talking around the fire last night and you said something about going to get a bath in a bit. But before you could, you dozed off. Solas carried you into the tent and you've been asleep ever since." She cocked her head to the right, a small frown forming at the corners of her mouth. "Are you alright Bri? You seem a bit shaken."

"I'm fine. Had a strange dream is all. When are we departing?"

"As soon as everyone is dressed, we're moving out." With that, Cassandra turned on her heel and exited the tent.

I dressed quickly, tugging my apprentice coat over my shoulders, strapping my staff to my back. I pulled my boots on and exited the tent, finding Solas and Varric already dressed and eating by the fire. Cassandra was nowhere to be seen and I assumed that she was either getting dressed or went scouting ahead. I sat down next to Varric, staring into the fire, replaying my dream.

"Brithari, are you feeling alright?" Solas asked, offering me an apple. "You fell asleep very quickly last night."

"Yes, I'm fine." I refused to look at him or accept the food, continuing to stare into the fire.

"Bad dreams?" Varric questioned, leaning back in his seat. "Wanna talk?"

I shook my head, forcing a smile. "Not bad dreams, only strange. Where is the Seeker?"

"Went to scout ahead. She wanted to make sure that the Crossroads had held overnight and asked us to join her once you were up and moving."

"Let's get going then," I said forcefully, shoving to my feet. "No need to keep her waiting."

We began to walk down the path and Solas was by my side. Instinctively we fell back a bit, trying to keep Varric out of earshot.

"What is wrong, Brithari?"

"Solas, I...did you and I go to the Fade again last night?"

"No. We did not. Why?"

I hesitated, feeling the blush rising up in my cheeks at the idea that my own mind had conjured up the dream. "I...dreamed of you and I last night. It was strange."

"Strange how?"

I reached for his hand, interlacing my fingers with his. As I did, I thought up the dream in my mind, using our touch as a link. I couldn't bring myself to look at him when he withdrew his hand gently from mine.

"I am sorry," I whispered, picking up my pace, trying to blink the tears away.

By the time we reached the Crossroads, the tears were gone, replaced instead by a burning hot flame of shame. I spotted Cassandra speaking to one of the soldiers but found myself sidetracked as I heard a man crying for help.

I approached the fretful elf by the fire. He turned to me, tears in his eyes. "Please, you must help me. My wife, she can't breathe."

"Slow down. Why can't she breathe?"

"She has this sickness, makes it feel like she has cobwebs in her lungs and can't catch her breath. She hasn't had this happen in a long time, but the excitement of yesterday made it come back. Our son, he makes a potion to help her, but he's with this cult in the hills." He choked back a sob. "If she doesn't get this medicine soon, she'll die. I can't lose my wife. Please help me."

I patted the man's hand, watching as he looked up at me hopefully, tears slipping down his cheeks now. "Your wife will not die. Can you point me in the right direction?"

He pointed towards the east. "You go through the gate, then follow the road south. There are bandits and all manner of beasts out there, so be careful. Mythal guide and protect you on your journey."

I headed towards the east gate, Cassandra running to catch up with us. "Brithari, where are you going?"

"There is a man in the village whose wife is dying. Their son can create a potion, but he is with some cult in the hills. I'm going to get the potion from him."

"We were supposed to see Master Dennet today," Cassandra reminded me.

"I'm well aware of it. We can head there after we get this potion. I'd like to help the villagers first before we move on. Without the support of the common people, our Inquisition is nothing."

When we reached the gate, the guard stopped us. I looked at her curiously. "What's going on here?"

"I wanted to warn you that there are bandits up ahead. Only, I think that they're more than bandits."

"What do you mean?" Solas questioned. "If they are bandits, they will be no match for us."

"They're far more aggressive than normal bandits and more organized. If I didn't know better, I would say they were soldiers."

"Soldiers who fled their duties?" I tried to crane my neck to see if I could spot any of these bandits.

"If I might speak freely my lady?"

"Of course."

She dropped her voice, looking around as she spoke to make sure there was no one else listening. "They look like Templars, but they're not, if that makes sense. I don't want to make any accusations as one of my cousin's is a Templar, but those are my observations."

"Are they harming anyone?" Cassandra spoke up. I hadn't realized that she'd stepped up beside me. "Has anyone been killed or injured?"

"No. Scared and had their things stolen, but not hurt."

I pinched the bridge of my nose. Now I was stuck between a rock and a hard place. "What's your name?"

"Recruit Belette, ma'am."

"Do you think that you can stop anyone from leaving on this road for the next day and a half?"

"I can do that, yes ma'am."

I broke into a grin, a wave of relief washing over me. "We're heading to the cult to get a potion for a villager. Once we're done with that, we'll take care of your bandits and get the road back open."

The recruit nodded. "I'll take care of it. Be safe out there."

We strode out of the gate, pausing for a moment as we got our bearings.

"This is awfully kind of you Bri," Varric commented. "Are you certain that the Templars and the mages can wait?"

"They'll have to. This is an immediate loss of life. If need be, we can fight off the mages and Templars again."

"You're willing to take on the responsibility and consequences?" Cassandra asked incredulously.

"Yes." I glanced over at Solas, catching him nodding with approval out of the corner of my eye. "I take full responsibility. Now, can we get going?"