Author's notes:
DORIAN ARRIVES! I love Dorian, he makes everything peachy! :3
Also...sorry this is another long one...my mind could not stop even if i wanted to.
Elvhen words at the end!
Enjoy!
Redcliffe and the dashing Mage
Upon arriving in Haven, Lavellan and Cassandra were ushered abruptly to the Chantry War Room. The advisers apparently can't wait any longer and need Lavellan to make a decision between Mages and Templars.
'Well…there goes my peaceful day I had hoped to have.'
Lavellan looked behind her and mouthed "Help" to her party. Sera laughed and walked towards Varric and introduced Bull and him. Lavellan could hear Bull roared in laughter. After the pleasantries, Sera, Varric and Bull walked together to the Tavern along with Bull's men. Blackwall walked over towards the Blacksmith and quickly befriended Harriett. Solas gave his horse to one of the stable boys. Erelan walked over to him with a wide grin on her face.
"Welcome back, Brother." She whispered the last word. Solas made a quick glare, warning her to not call him that. She waved her hand. "Don't worry, no one probably heard that." Her grin grew wider. "Soo…I can't help but notice, unless my eyes deceived me, Lavellan was wearing your cloak." She looked at him searching his face. Solas stood there, his face showing no emotions.
"I have no clue what you are talking about." He replied. "Sister." He whispered to her ear, and backed up slightly.
"Oh? Really? I could of swear that was your cloak she was wearing. Unless my skills of observation skills have eluded me all these months since my…sleep." She was still searching for a slight reaction from him. For a moment she noticed him grinning before he went stoic. Satisfied of what she saw, she chuckled.
"Do be careful with…whatever game you're playing. I am starting to be quite fond of her." She said walking away from him. Solas let out a deep breath that he had been holding.
He watched her leave towards the Tavern, mostly likely to speak to the other recruits they had just added. Solas looked towards Blackwall, who was enjoying talking to Harriett about making things with their bare hands. He thought about what Erelan told him and shook his head and walked towards his cabin. As he passed by the Tavern, he heard Sera and Erelan laughing. He looked and saw Bull had picked them both up and set them on his shoulder, most likely to show off his strength. He chuckled and started walking towards his cabin.
'Be careful...huh. If only you know how hard I am trying…my dear sister…'
In the war room loud voices could be heard from inside. Lavellan has finally decided on choosing the Mages for help. Cullen was disappointed and made it clear his objection about it.
"Why would you choose to go visit the rebel mages?! They could do harm if left unattended. I say we get the Templars." He said fiercely.
"ALL of you asked me to make a decision and here I am doing it and just like that you just dismiss it?!" Lavellan argued. She was tired already and wanted this to be done with. Apparently Cullen will have none of that.
"The Templars can do the same Commander." Leliana intervened.
"Grand Enchanter Fiona did ask to meet with the Inquisition. We can't just ignore her invitation." Josephine added.
"Then it is settled, we are going to meet with the Grand Enchanter in Redcliffe. I will go with her." Cassandra said. "The mages are powerful, but more desperate than any of us realize."
"There's always danger no matter where we go Cassandra. We are The Inquisition." Lavellan replied.
"True enough." Cassandra agreed.
"We are only going there to talk to the Grand Enchanter, commander. I am not ruling out the Templars as of yet. I am not saying that I have chosen the Mages support either." Lavellan said rubbing her head.
"I…forgive me, I did not mean to-"Lavellan held up her hand.
"Save it, I understand your concerns completely. Me, Cassandra and two others will go to Redcliffe today." She turned to Cassandra. "I'm sorry, we just arrived and again we leave."
"No need for apologies, I understand the urgency."
"I will send a letter to an agent in Redcliffe to announce your arrival." Leliana said as she left the war room.
"I will take notes on these events." Josephine started writing. Cullen stayed silent, rubbing his neck in embarrassment.
"Cullen, I understand your…reservations about the Mages. But you must also be open minded about the possibility that this may work out." Lavellan said.
"Yes…your right. I'm sorry. I will try." He replied sighing in defeat.
"Thank you Cullen." She smiled at him and walked out the room followed by Cassandra.
Lavellan noticed Vivienne was not at her usual spot. She paid no mind to it and walked out of the Chantry. Cassandra passed her by to start packing up for the trip.
'Least one of us is excited for the trip…time to ask people around…'
Lavellan sighed and walked towards the Tavern. She opened the door and walked in to see…a mess. Sera was now on the floor knocked out, snoring. Bull and his men were…everywhere. Krem sitting on a chair sleeping, Bull on the ground on his side passed out. The other members were either on the table or on top of eachother passed out. She found Varric sitting on the bar with a drink on his hand. She tiptoed around the area towards him.
"Varric." She whispered.
"Hey!" He whispered back. "Good to see you alive after all the adventures you're having." He chuckled.
"You have no idea…" she said shaking her head. "Speaking of adventure…I need someone to go with me and Cassandra today…right now to Redcliffe to talk to the Grand Enchanter. I know its short notice but would you mind joining?" She asked nervously.
"Sure! Bianca and I are always ready for some action." He replied smiling and chugging his drink. "Before you ask, no I am not drunk." He added.
"I trust you Varric, even if you were drunk." She smiled. Varric laughed and left to pack up.
Next stop was to ask either Blackwall or Solas. She had thought of asking Solas, but she didn't know how he would react to leaving so soon right after arriving. There is Blackwall, but the same goes for him, and she barely knows the guy. Now she thought about it, she never got the chance to get to know either Blackwall or Bull. She looked at Bull and his men and smiled.
'Least…they're feeling at home. Home…wherever that is for them.'
She walked out of the Tavern and searched for Blackwall. As she neared the gate she saw Solas walking out of Erelan's cabin. She wondered what he was doing in there and curiosity took over and she walked towards him. Solas turned around and saw her walking towards him. Reality took over as he realized she had seen him walk out of Erelan's cabin. He swallowed hard and composed himself as he walked to meet her.
"Solas?" She said, concern shown on her face. "Is everything alright?" She asked looking over his shoulder towards Erelan's cabin.
"Yes, everything is fine." He paused and then continued. "It seemed she had too much to drink with Sera and others. She…came knocking at my door…well…pounding actually and asking-yelling at me to train her while she is intoxicated. When I opened the door I found her passed out, so I carried her back to her cabin." He noticed Lavellan's face eased up a bit by his answer.
"Oh. Is she okay now?" She asked looking at him, searching his face to see if he was telling the truth.
"Yes, she's now asleep." He said smiling at her. Lavellan sighed in relief. Solas noticed she had been holding her breath.
'Here I thought something happened between them. Wait- what? Was I worried that Solas might actually have feelings for her? I mean yeah sure…she's much prettier than me. More elegant…serene…taller than me with much more feminine physic than me. I shouldn't care about it…right? Well shit…Was I…oh creators!'
Varric came by packed and ready for Redcliffe.
"Chuckles! Glad see to you alive and still grim!" He laughed. "Are you coming with us to Redcliffe?" He asked looking at Lavellan then to him.
"Excuse me?" Solas asked confused. He looked at Lavellan.
"Oh right uhm…I wasn't…going to ask, seeing that we just came arrived…I thought you'd like to rest for now." She replied looking at the ground.
"Oh…well…shit…sorry Lavellan." Varric said apologetically.
"Oh no, it's fine Varric!" She looked at Varric then to Solas. "Would…you like to join us in Redcliffe?"
"I'll happy to accompany you." He said smiling at her. "Let just get my things ready and we can head out." He left Varric and Lavellan to go and pack up.
"Sorry about that." Varric apologized again.
"Don't worry about, in fact…you probably just saved my ass there before it got all awkward." Lavellan replied laughing.
Lavellan and her party arrived in Redcliffe mid afternoon. A fade rift blocked the gates of Redcliffe and they had to fight their way through demons. The demons they fought were very different from the ones they normally fought. It was as if the demons distorted time itself. It took them a while to take them all down. It was as if the demon's knew where they would attack. Finally, after what felt like forever Lavellan closed the rift and made a CRACK sound. She fell on her knees as all her mana was spent. Solas kneeled beside her and gave her mana potion. She thanked him and drank the potion.
"What…was that?" Lavellan managed to speak, she got off her knees with Solas helping her up.
"We don't know what these rifts can do. That one appeared to alter the time around it." Cassandra answered.
"We need to find out what cause…whatever this is." Lavellan replied.
The gate keeper came out of hiding and opened the gates. Lavellan and the party walked in and is greeted by one of Leliana's spies. He told them that he spread the word of the inquisition was coming, but no one here was expecting them.
"No one?" Not even Grand Enchanter Fiona?" Lavellan asked confused. The scout shrugged his shoulders.
"If she was, she hasn't told anyone." He replied. "We've arranged use of the Tavern for the negotiations." Then an elf ran towards them.
"Agents of the inquisition, my apologies! Magister Alexius is in charge now. But hasn't yet arrived. He's expected shortly. You can speak with the Former Grand Enchanter in the meantime." He said as he started walking away. Lavellan and her party followed him.
"Is it just me…or is something weird going on here?" Varric asked as they walked around.
"Well…only one way to find out. Talk to the Grand Enchanter." Lavellan answered. Solas walked beside her.
"Be careful…something is not right here…the magic…do you feel it?" He asked looking around the area.
"Yes, keep your guard up." She said with caution in her tone. As they arrive at the Tavern, Grand Enchanter Fiona welcomed them.
"Welcome, Agents of the inquisition." She said. Lavellan nodded in greeting. "What has brought you to Redcliffe?" She asked.
"We're here because of your invitation back in Val Royeaux." Lavellan replied. Fiona looked at her with confusion.
"You must be mistaken. I haven't been to Val Royeaux since before the conclave."
"Well…that's very strange, because someone who looked exactly like you spoke to me in Val Royeaux."
"Exactly like me? I suppose it could be magic at work, but why would anyone…whoever…or whatever brought you here, the situation has changed. The free mages have already…pledge themselves to the Tevinter Imperium."
"An alliance with Tevinter? Do you not fear all of Thedas turning against you?" Cassandra asked, surprised at this discovery.
"Andraste's Ass…I'm trying to think of a single worse thing you could have done. And I've got nothing." Varric shook his head in disappointment.
"I understand that you are afraid, but you deserve better than slavery to Tevinter." Solas said.
"As one indentured to a magister, I no longer have the authority to negotiate with you."
"Then tell me who does." Lavellan demanded. The door behind them opened and closed and made a loud BANG. Everyone turned around and saw a hooded man, looked about in his late forties or early fifties. His face covered in wrinkles from years of working. His eyes full of dark circles from restless nights. Behind him was a young man.
"Welcome my friends. I apologize for not greeting you earlier." He said as he approached them.
"Agents of the inquisition, allow me to introduce Magister Gereon Alexius." Fiona stated.
"The southern mages are under my command. And you are the survivor, yes? The one from the fade? Interesting." He said examining Lavellan. Solas stepped closer towards her in a protective stance.
"Wow, did not realize I was this famous for a Magister to know who I am!" She replied smiling at him. The Magister laughed and gestured towards the nearest table. Lavellan followed and they both sat facing eachother.
"Felix, would you send for a scribe, please? Pardon my manners. My son Felix, Friends." He pointed to the young man next to him. Felix gave a slight bow before he left to get the scribe. "I am not surprised you're here. Containing The Breach is not a feat that many could even attempt. There is no telling how many mages would be needed for such an endeavor. Ambitious, indeed." Lavellan flipped her hair and tilted her head.
"Well, something that big threatened the world. We can't think small here." She answered grinning.
"There will have to be—" Before Alexius could finish his sentence, his son limped his way towards them. Lavellan got up and caught him before he fell on the ground. He slipped something in her hand when she caught him. Alexius got up, worried about his son.
"Felix!" He said
"I'm so sorry! Please forgive my clumsiness, my lady." Felix said looking distraught. Felix walked up to him.
"Are you alright?" He asked.
"I'm fine father." Felix replied.
"Come, I'll get your powders. Please excuse me, friend. We will have to continue this another time. Fiona, I require your assistance back at the castle." He said holding Felix and walking away. Fiona followed behind.
"I don't mean to trouble everyone." Felix said as he is lead away.
Everyone was confused, Lavellan looked at her hand and opened a note "Come to the chantry…you are in danger" it read. She looked back to where Alexius and Feliks walked from and found them already gone. Lavellan started walking out of the Tavern followed by her party. She told them that Feliks had given a note and everyone read it. Cassandra was the first one to speak.
"This must be a trap!" She said, handing back the note to Lavellan.
"I find it very mysterious." Varric said.
"We'll always be in danger Cassandra, nobody likes us anywhere, unless we do something good for them." Lavellan said. "Well then, let's go meet this mystery person. If it's a trap, then we do what we do best. Kill." She said smiling at her party.
"As long as we are all going together, it should be fine." Solas added.
"I never thought I'd see the day, chuckles actually caring." Varric was now smirking.
"I'm merely curious as to who sent this note and why." Solas stated.
"Well then let's go!" Lavellan started skipping towards the Chantry. Varric shook his head and followed, Cassandra and Solas behind them.
They approached the chantry and heard some ruckus inside. Lavellan looked at her party and they all had their weapons ready. She opened the door and saw a man fighting off demons alone, and a rift opened in the middle. As he finished fighting off the first wave of demon he turned around and looked at them, relieved.
"Good! You're finally here! Now help me close this, would you?" He said.
The second wave of demons came out of the rift. Lavellan felt Solas's barrier around her and together with the man fought the demons together. Cassandra went ahead and taunted most of them, Varric threw traps on the ground. Solas using his staff electrified some of the lesser demons around them. A rage demon jumped infront of Lavellan, before she could do anything he was frozen. She looked to her right and found the man is a mage. He smirked at her and she smiled and shattered the demon in pieces using her staff. After sometime they finally finished off the last wave of demons. Lavellan held up her left hand and with a loud CRACK closed the rift.
"Fascinating! How does that work, exactly?" He asked. Lavellan shrugged her shoulders. He laughed. "You don't even know do you? You just wiggle your fingers and BOOM! Rift closes."
"Uhm…who are you?" Lavellan asked.
"Ah…getting ahead of myself again, I see. Dorian of house Pavus, most recently of Minrathous. How do you do?" He answered bowing his head slightly.
"Another Tevinter. Be cautious with this one." Warned Cassandra.
"Suspicious friend you have here." Dorian remarked. "Magister Alexius was once my mentor, so my assistance should be valuable—as I'm sure you can imagine." Confused Lavellan asked.
"Why are you helping us? Wasn't Alexius your mentor?"
"Alexius WAS my mentor, meaning he's not any longer, not…for some time." Dorian responded.
Dorian went on explaining about the danger that is surrounding this place. He told them that Alexius used time magic to get to Redcliffe before Lavellan and her party can. Everyone was surprised to find that out. Solas in disbelief thinks it impossible. Dorian admitted he helped create the amulet Alexius is using. Lavellan had a hard time wrapping her head with everything that is going on. Dorian admitted he didn't understand why Alexius would go to such lengths. As if on cue Feliks arrived. He explained his father had joined a cult called the Venatori. He explained that his father wants to get Lavellan killed.
'Well…one more person in line that wants me dead…great. What did I get myself into?"
Everyone went back to the camp along with their new ally Dorian. Feliks stayed behind so his father won't be suspicious. Lavellan had asked one of Leliana's scout to send word to the advisors to meet them here as soon as possible. Everyone still had doubts about Dorian, seeing that he is a Tevinter and was Alexius apprentice. Lavellan felt that she could trust him, but knew Cassandra and the others would argue not to trust him. She sat away from the camp under a tree, she sighed and bit on her nail. Her head was swirling with questions that she didn't noticed Solas approaching her. He sat next to her and wrapped his cloak around her. Lavellan jerked in surprised and calmed down when it was only Solas.
"Forgive me…I did not mean to scare you." He said
"I'm sorry…I was…my head was thinking too much. I'm trying to make sense of the events that transpired." She said after relaxing next to him. Solas pulled her close towards him wrapping her around his arms and cloak. Lavellan surprised at his action stiffened. He noticed her body stiffed and started rubbing her back to help her relax; it worked.
"If what that Tevinter said is true…then this danger is something we have never encountered before. I suggest approach this with caution." He said, still rubbing her back.
"I suppose you're right…" She sighed and without realizing it leaned her head on his shoulder. It was Solas' turn to be stiff. He looked down at her, her eyes were closed and she looked so peaceful. He slowly relaxed.
'I wish time could stop now and let me have this peace. But…I cannot. I mustn't. I already live in a lie…I cannot drag her with me. You already did…'
"Lavellan…" He whispered on her ear. Lavellan opened her eyes lazily and looked up. When she realized what she was doing she pushed herself away from him. Solas felt a slight chill when she pulled away. He thought of grabbing her to feel her warmth again, but fought his desires to do so.
"Solas, I am so sorry…I-uhm…" She stuttered through her words. Solas gave her a reassuring smile.
"It's understandable, you are the only one capable closing the rift. May I?" He held out his hand towards her marked hand. She pulled out her gloves and place it on his. The Mark seemed to have grown. Solas looked at it with remorse.
'I am sorry…Ma'dalen, I have caused you pain…'
Lavellan looked at Solas and saw for a brief moment guilt written on his face, then disappeared. Solas used his magic to quench the mark. The warmth of Solas's magic seeped through her body. Lavellan felt herself blush. Solas caressed her hand softly, and without thinking linked his fingers and hers together. Lavellan, surprised by this sudden action gave a small gasp. She looked at Solas's eyes and he in turn looked at hers. They stared at eachother for what seemed like forever. Lavellan noticed in his eyes emotions clashing with eachother. Love, guilt, sadness, and hesitance, on impulse she lifted her right hand and gently placed it on his cheek. Solas shuddered at the touch but relaxed after a while. Their faces were close to eachother and slowly their lips were inching closer and closer.
"Ser, a message-"
A scout had found them and stopped himself from finishing his sentence. Solas and Lavellan immediately pulled away from eachother and looked away. Lavellan put her gloves back on and Solas stood up. He nodded to Lavellan and made his way back to the camp. Lavellan cleared her throat as she walks towards the scout. The scout held his head low as he gave her a note. Leliana, Cullen and Josephine were on their way, along with some agents. It said they will arrive at dawn tomorrow. She thanked the scout and he walked away. Lavellan walked towards the camp fire and saw everyone sitting, eating dinner. She looked towards Solas and found him reading a book. Her mind remembered the intimate moment they shared and she felt her blood rushed. She informed the others that Leliana and the others will arrive at dawn with soldiers. After the announcement she walked towards the tent and curled on her bedroll. She was too tired to eat dinner and fell asleep right way.
Lavellan woke up to the sound of a horse whining. She sat up on her bedroll and found the sun wasn't out yet. She rubbed her eyes and went outside to see who is outside. She saw a hooded figure tying the horse's reigns on a tree. She couldn't hear footsteps when the figure walked towards her. She conjured up a small fire and threw it at the fire logs. Slowly the shadow figure came to view. Leliana.
"Did my arrival wake you? Forgive me." She said.
"No…it's fine." Lavellan replied yawning. "I thought your letter said dawn…not when before the sun rise." Again she yawned. Leliana gave a small chuckle.
"As soon as I read the report, I set out immediately last night. I left Josie and Cullen a note. They should arrive soon."
"Wait…so you're saying…you didn't sleep at all?" Lavellan now wide awake looked at Leliana bewildered.
"Yes, I rode my horse nonstop, no rest." She paused and tried to hide her laugh. Lavellan's mouth gaped opened. "I'm joking, I rested for a bit and made sure my horse had rest and food. Horsemaster Dennet would be furious should he find out I neglected one of his horse."
"Oh…creators, you almost got me." Lavellan sighed in relief. "Since Cullen is bringing some agents I'm guessing…there is a plan?" Leliana nodded.
"It will not be easy to gain access into Redcliffe castle. So…we need a distraction, that is where you and your party come in. It is risky but it should work."
"Fortunately you'll have me beside me you." Dorian came out from the tent. "Sorry, couldn't sleep with all this talk of raiding the castle." Leliana looked at him.
"So your Dorian I read about in the report." Dorian folded his arms and raised an eyebrow.
"Oh? I did not I was so famous among the inquisition." Lavellan bit her lip to prevent herself from laughing.
"Only recently." Leliana replied. "We will talk more about our plan once everyone else have gathered. I suspect you'll be joining us then?" Leliana asked Dorian.
"Wouldn't miss it." He replied smiling at her. Leliana disappeared into the shadows.
"Now I know why…she's feared. To think I lived to tell the tale." He commented.
"Does she really look frightening to you?" Lavellan asked.
"To someone who has heard of all the things she had done and continue to do? Oh yes, I wouldn't want to be on her bad side." He replied.
Dorian and Lavellan sat down by the fire and started talking about eachother. She was surprised at how different he was from the other Tevinters. He resented the way his people treat the slaves and others. He told her the story of how he ran away from his father and how he met Feliks and Alexius. Lavellan shared some stories about her life and little bit of her clan. He was fascinated about almost everything. She in turn was fascinated about his ideas to change the Imperium if he ever had the chance. They both talked for what seemed like hours and told eachother jokes.
The sun was now rising and slowly the camp was bustling with people getting ready for the day. Solas was the first person to come out of the tent. He sat down between Dorian and Lavellan at the campfire, listening to their conversations. He studied the both Dorian and Lavellan's actions with eachother. He was surprised how calm and happy she is talking to a Tevinter, considering her past with them. She seemed to accept Dorian already as part of the inquisition. The thought of him joining them on their missions and travels made his stomach churned. He couldn't picture himself getting along with him at all. He was so caught up on his thoughts that he failed to notice Dorian watching him at the corner of his eyes. Dorian watched him and first thing he noticed was his dreadful clothes. He could not understand how Lavellan and the inquisition would let him wear such clothes. The clothes were already a negative point from him. The scowl he wears on his face when looking at him…that was already a big negative point. Dorian remembered the battle they fought together at the chantry and thought he was a capable mage and knew how to handle his magic well. He will give him points for that.
Everyone in the camp were now awake and eating breakfast, bread and butter with slices of apples on their plate. Heavy hooves were heard galloping towards them. It was Cullen and the other people right on time. Lavellan was happy to see everyone safe.
"By the maker…" Leliana appeared next to her, she was looking past Cullen and Josephine. Lavellan followed her gaze and to her surprise saw there were more people than planned. Bull, Sera, Blackwall and even Vivienne were there, on their horse riding behind Cullen and Josephine. As Cullen came into view she noticed he was not alone on his horse. Erelan was riding with him on his horse. That is a big surprise, Erelan was rarely brought to missions or even asked to join missions, yet here she is. Then again she is from Hinterlands, it was only a matter of time before she got bored staying inside Haven, doing nothing. Solas stood shocked behind Lavellan, His sister was here. Erelan riding with Cullen didn't bother him as much as the fact that she was here. When everyone arrived at the camp they all got off their mounts and walked towards Lavellan and the others. Lavellan greeted them all one by one with a quick hug, happy to see them. Cullen, Josephine and Leliana rolled out a map of Redcliffe Castle on a table and started placing pyramids as to where each agents go. Lavellan was with the others asking them what they are doing here.
"Well…we heard what happened in Redcliffe and thought to help out." Bull said.
"How did you guys even convinced Cullen to let you join? I thought it was only a small party." She asked.
"We didn't, Sera here heard their plan, and we waited outside the gate and when they saw us, they knew we would not move until they let us join them." Blackwall responded.
"It was easy!" Sera said grabbing some bread and stuffed it in her mouth.
"What about you Erelan? How did you convince the commander to let you join?" Solas asked looking at Erelan, glaring almost.
"It didn't take a lot of convincing, I just asked him if I could join. I was there when Leliana told him about your request." She replied looking at Lavellan, clearly trying to avoid her brother's glare.
"Sure, Cully-wully is smitten with her anyway, he'll do anything for her!" Sera teased.
"Sera!" Erelan yelled, she was clearly blushing.
"Wot?! It's true, eve'one knows it! The way he looks at you and shite." She replied.
"Oh my dear you are making the poor girl red as a tomato." Vivienne said. Erelan groaned and hid her face behind her hands. Sera laughed satisfied with the results.
"Question is…does she feel the same with him?" Bull wondered out loud. This made Erelan froze. Everyone noticed her stiffened. Sera was the first to jump and scream in delight.
"Andraste's tits! SHE DOES!" Her voice was so loud it made everyone in the camp stop what they were doing and stare at them. Erelan suddenly jumped at her and covered her mouth. Sera muffled something but Erelan held her tight. Cullen stared at Erelan for a moment wondering what they were talking about. Finally, Sera calmed down and Erelan let her go. Everyone was amused at this discovery, everyone but Solas. He was mortified, but showed no emotion on his face. Erelan stared at him and knew exactly what he was thinking. She looked away from him, ashamed. Bull was staring at Dorian.
"So who's the Vint guy?" Everyone turned to look at Dorian, they barely noticed him standing behind Lavellan.
"This is Dorian. He offered his assistance to help with taking down Alexius, the Magister that wants me dead." Lavellan explained. Everyone greeted him.
Cassandra walked over to Lavellan and asked her to join the planning with the advisors along with Dorian. Lavellan and Dorian excused themselves from the group and walked towards the mini war table. Cullen explained the plan is for her to go in with some small group when Alexius sends his invitation to her. Dorian held out an envelope with Alexius seal. He admitted Felix had taken it and gave it to him. Lavellan hugged Dorian and thanked him for being at their side. Now that the plan is set, all there is to do now was to meet with Alexius.
The camp site was full of people that some people were sent to other campsites. The inner circle that Lavellan had built stays with her along with the advisors. It was afternoon and everyone was restless. They had to wait at night to meet with Alexius and time seemed to be moving slowly. Sera and Bull made their frustration known, Sera was shooting her arrows on trees, cursing with each hit. Bull had asked Cassandra to hit him with a stick and with each hit screamed out his frustrations. Blackwall had pulled out an unfinished wooden figure and with his knife started carving it out taking piece by piece. Vivienne made herself comfortable on a chair, she asked to be brought to her, and started reading a book. Dorian had to go back to Redcliffe castle in order to make sure Feliks is okay and that everything goes according to plan.
Solas and Erelan was not in site, Lavellan had noticed. She walked around asking if anyone had seen them, no one had a clue. She searched near the campsite area but no luck. Cullen was at the mini war table staring intently at the map and its pieces. Lavellan walked towards him.
"Commander? Everything alright?" She asked as she stopped beside him.
"Yes. Just anxious to get this done already. This waiting is making me feel at edge." He replied looking away from the map and turned to her.
"I think everyone is." She replied, looking at everyone. Cullen followed and gave a small laugh.
"I suppose your right. I take it you have chosen the mages then?" His voice sounded disappointed.
"The mages under a Tevinter Magister…does not exactly paint a good picture." She replied.
"I will be honest, I am disappointed. But in all respect, no one can do what you did for the inquisition. You have created a circle of powerful allies to join the cause, and quickly made a decision on who to ask for help with closing The Breach. I may not like it, but I will support it." He said.
"Thank you…Cullen. I am sorry." She replied. Cullen gave her a small smile, she smiled back. "Have you seen Solas and Erelan? I can't seem to find them around the camp." She asked him.
"Sorry no, I was too busy making sure our plan does not fail, I failed to notice where they are." He replied, rubbing his neck.
"No worries, I'm just wondering where they are." She said smiling at him.
"Maybe…Solas is training her far away, like last time." He said, remembering the time they found them training.
"I didn't think of that…maybe." Lavellan started thinking where they could be training. A question came to her mind. "Cullen? Do Templars make an oath?" She asked. Cullen looked at her confused.
"What? An Oath? Yes, we do a ceremonial oath to protect and serve-" Lavellan cut him off.
"I mean…do they…pledge to live a solitary life. "I pledge myself only to the order and give myself only to..." such and such." Cullen looked at her confused then it dawned on him what her question meant.
"Oh! You mean are we expected to give up physical temptations?" He replied.
"Yes, do they?"
"Oh…well…uh…" He cleared his throat. "No templars can marry but there are rules around it and the order must grant permission. Some may choose to give it up to show their devotion, but…it's not required." He said.
Lavellan can tell he was a bit uncomfortable with the topic but couldn't help how adorable he looked when nervous.
"Have you?" She asked, trying not to grin.
"Me? Uh…uhm…no, I've taken no such vows." He replied. Lavellan noticed him blushing. "Maker's breath…can we…talk of something else?" He asked.
"I got two more questions and then we can talk of something else." She said her grin showing. "Did anyone caught your attention while you were at Kirkwall?" Cullen's face was no red. Probably more red than the color itself if that is even possible.
"Yes. But I didn't act upon it." He admitted.
"Why not?"
"I…was still new to the order and…well- its complicated."
"How about now? Anyone caught your attention in the inquisition?" Poor Cullen looked like a deer that has seen its predator.
"Wh- Why would you- What made you- I…"
"I heard rumors…that you have certain feelings for…one of our recruits. Not just any recruit but one of the inner circle."
Lavellan could not stop now, she had to find out if these were true. Cullen didn't know what to do or what to say. Both arms dropped to his sides and his head hung low, defeated.
"Yes. But I- this shouldn't- how did- is it obvious?" The last words were said barely a whisper.
"Everyone else thinks so, but I didn't notice. Come to think of it…I would never have guessed since I'm always out in the field. Don't worry your secret is safe from me at least…don't know about Sera or Bull or anyone else for that matter."
"Maker's Breath. I hope she doesn't know or find out. It would…be- I don't even want to think about what would happen." He said horrified at the thought.
"If you did have the chance…would you act upon it?" Curiosity took over.
"I- maybe? I mean…no? yes? I'm not sure…she and I are…different in so many ways." Cullen admitted.
"Is her being a Mage a problem? Or is it because she is an elf? Or both that is stopping you?"
"Wha- Oh no! no no…it's just she…her personality is very opposite to mine…and I don't think she would want to be with an ex-templar." He said sadly.
"I don't think that hardly makes a difference, Love knows no bounds Cullen. Besides, haven't you heard? Opposites attract." She said smiling at him and patted his left arm in reassurance. Cullen looked at her and smiled.
"I would…like that." He replied softly.
Solas and Erelan rode far away from the camp. Solas was agitated and displeased at the fact she was out here. Not only that, she was riding with Cullen, a Shem, a Templar, everything he hated. He stopped near riverbank and hastily got off his mount, Erelan followed after.
"Fenedhis Lasa! What were you thinking?!" He yelled at her.
"What do you mean, Ma' fenor isa'ma'lin" She asked innocently.
"You know full well what I mean, Sister." He hissed the last word.
"What? I can't go out wherever I please? Am I supposed to be locked up in Haven and wait like a good girl for everyone else to return from their missions?" She replied trying to control her rage. "Afraid that I will accidentally just lash out and tell everyone Who We are?! Do you really believe me to be that incompetent?" She glared at him.
"No, I-" She cut him off.
"Enough. I see how you still see me as that little girl in need of protection."
"I do not, I- Yes…I think it best for you to be in Haven. It is safer there than out here." He said looking at her. She laughed.
"You do not know what it is like to be in a place full of Shems, that hates and fears you because you are an elf and a mage! While the people you feel safe with go out and save the world." She said with disgust.
"Of course I do! I have lived far longer in this world than you did and had encountered them myself." He replied his anger subsiding.
"No you do not!" She inhaled a deep breath and calmly said. " You say you do, but you don't. You don't know what it's like to be in a closed area, danger all around you. She clenched her fists, knuckles turning white. "Leliana and Josephine have been kind enough to see of my well-being, if a day did come for them to choose whose side they are on it will not be mine."
Solas sighed in defeat. He turned around and looked at the river.
"What about Cullen?" He finally asked. Erelan calmed herself and stood beside him.
"The commander? He…has been accommodating. I admit the first few days was a disaster." She smiled remembering how he tried to start a conversation but failed miserably. "Sometimes I think he never talked to a woman before…or an elf-mage for that matter. The day you left for Val Royeaux, I told myself to stay inside until you return. I feared the people would do something to me. I felt…so alone. I thought if I stayed inside, people would forget I existed and no one would bother me. In Cullen's case…that was not in his agenda." She gave a small laugh and continued. "He reached out to me and gave me a tour around Haven. He said that Josephine had ordered him to, probably to make me feel comfortable, she is so sweet, Josephine. Every day he would come by and have me accompany him around Haven, whether it was to watch the new recruits train or just him on his desk reading reports. He made sure I was not cooped up in my cabin. It took some time to figure out that no one had ordered him to have me around. He did it on his own. My suspicion was right when I got to ask Josephine if she had asked him to have me accompany him everywhere, she admitted only to the first day, other than that Cullen did everything else on his own." Solas stayed quiet for a while. He shook his head and sighed.
"He has feelings…for you." He said finally, looking at her.
"You don't think I can tell?" She answered looking back at him.
"What I fear is…you feel the same for him." Erelan stayed silent and averted his gaze. Solas took that as confirmation. He took her hands and massaged them gently. "You…We are the last of Our kind sister…you cannot love him." He said softly.
"I should say the same for you…brother. I see how you look at her, Lavellan. She maybe a descendant, but she is still a Shemlen." Solas did not know what to say, and stayed quiet. Erelan looked at her brother. "Do not forget, brother I am observant than most. You can try to hide your emotions, but remember…I know who you are, and how you think." Solas chuckled.
"Forgive me…It has been a millennium. I had forgotten out of the all of us you were closest to Mythal's personality." He kissed her forehead softly and embraced her.
"Your age is showing dear brother." She teased. Solas laughed.
"What do we do now…about…you know…these feelings." She asked.
"I don't know." He admitted. Erelan pulled away from the embrace and looked at her brother. She was surprise to see him so uncertain.
"My how the Dread Wolf change…I never thought I'd see the day. I wonder if this is one of her powers." Solas smiled.
"Come we must return…or they will send people to look for us." He said as he led her to their horses and helped her up.
Mounted on their horses they both slowly made their way back to them camp. They talked about their journeys in both the fade and real life. Solas told her about he met some Dalish Elves and tried to teach them about the elvhen history. Erelan laughed when he told her they rejected his ideas and stories and sent him away. She in turn told him about how she managed to avoid contact with Shems. How she managed to stay unknown in Hinterlands until she met Asvhalla.
The sun was now setting when Solas and Erelan arrived. They quickly tied their reigns on a tree and walked towards the camp. They saw everyone around the campfire, talking about something. Lavellan was the first to notice they arrived and everyone else followed.
"Creators! You two were gone for so long we almost set out to look for you guys!" She said as she stopped infront of them.
"Yea! Where did you two run off to anyway?" Varric asked. Solas was about to reply but Erelan beat him to it.
"To my old house. I figured since…we were near I wanted to see…how it is." She said.
"Oh that's right…you used to live around here. What happened to your house now?" Lavellan asked.
"Alas…it is…in disrepair." She replied, smiling sadly.
"Iz it me or does she talk like elfy-elf 'ere?" Sera pointed at Solas. Everyone stared and started thinking about the similarities. Bull was the first to talk.
"HA! Nah…she is too pretty and sexy, if you ask me." Erelan blushed. "If you ever need someone to…cuddle with…at night, I'm your man." He gave her a wink.
"You forget…she dresses much better than him." Vivienne added. Solas rolled his eyes.
"Okay okay, everyone please keep your opinions to yourselves for now and let's get ready for our mission." Lavellan waved them off, everyone murmured in disagreement but followed anyway. Lavellan turned around and looked at Solas.
"I'm assuming your prepared?" She asked. He nodded in agreement. She turned on Erelan. "You will stay here to help the wounded, if any." Erelan nodded.
Lavellan walked towards the advisors for one last run on their plan. Erelan and Solas looked at eachother. They spoke in Ancient Elvhen.
"Sera is more observant than the rest…we must be careful." Solas warned.
"Ma nuvenin." She replied and walked away.
The plan was set and everyone was ready to set out to Redcliffe Castle. As night time approached everyone rode towards the road to Redcliffe Castle. No one could have predicted what Alexius had planned. Lavellan will come out a changed woman.
Author's notes:
This whole love square...is being..a "squaround" I don't know...bad joke ha!
Fenedhis Lasa - Suck a wolf's dick or Go suck a wolf's dick
Shem/Shemlen - quickling/quickling child
Ma nuvenin - as you wish
Ma' fenor isa'ma'lin - my dear brother
Until next chapter! :3
