Author's notes:

Sorry for the delay! Work has me backed up!

Also...i did not intend for this to be...very...long.

I hope you enjoy it!

Alot...of shit happened here...

Clan Lavellan and A Request.

It has been almost two weeks since Lavellan and party returned from their mission off Fallow Mire. In those days, she and Solas barely saw or spoke to each other, only because she has been avoiding him. The same goes with Erelan, she has been avoiding Cullen in those days also. Both women along with Sera and Dorian locked themselves up in Lavellan's room. Chatting.

"So I noticed…you and Solas haven't been talking. I thought it was official?" Dorian asked, sipping on his tea.

Lavellan sighed. "I don't know…I felt like I'm the only one working on it…so I told him that we need space…but mostly for his benefit. He is very confusing." She grumbled the last part.

Erelan, Dorian and Sera laughed. "What you expect? He is an old broody elf! Probably only thinks about his fade spirit friends. Creepy." Sera said.

"A Hobo apostate, I mean who goes out dressing like that?" Dorian commented.

Erelan chuckled. It is true Solas prefers wearing 'rags' but only for appearance. She can't exactly tell them why he wears the clothes he does, it will be complicated. Also, she can't help but take this opportunity to chime in about her brother.

"You forgot to add grim." She added.

"Here I thought you'd take his side Ery." Sera said.

"Oh? What makes you say that?" Ery asked.

"Well…you two are always together…well not always, but usually close. I thought you'd be offended or something." She replied.

"Oh no, in fact I find him irritating mostly. Always have a smart response at almost every single thing." Ery said, sipping her tea.

It is true, he can be so infuriating. Brother or not, his PRIDE is way up. Sera laughed whole heartedly, Lavellan chuckled and Dorian just grinned, amused.

"I like you more and more Ery! I thought you were elfy, but proved you me wrong!" Sera said, wiping her tears away.

"Me? Elfy elf? Never." Ery said in the most Orlesian accent she could muster. That made Sera laughed again.

"Back to our discussion, I take it…you two are having a break? Or…well…you are giving him a break?" Dorian asked, confused as to how to make sense of this.

"I guess? I don't know. I honestly have no idea." Lavellan replied, admitting she is lost in this also.

"Well…least it's not as bad as what happened to our cully-wully." Sera said.

Erelan almost choked on her tea as she coughed and set her cup on the table.

"Creators Sera! I almost choked to death!" She exclaimed, clearing her throat.

"What do you mean Sera? What happened to Cullen?" Lavellan asked, looking at Sera with a serious and worried face.

"Oh you mean that?" Dorian added. "I heard about it too."

Lavellan feeling left out and irritated now, looked from Sera to Dorian. "What happened?"

"Well…the rumor is, Ery rejected the commander's feelings, after confessing." Sera said.

Erelan stayed quiet, looking away from the group. Lavellan's eyes went wide, and abruptly turned towards Erelan.

"You did not! Tell me you didn't!" She gasps.

Erelan turned to face her. "No…that isn't the story. I didn't reject his feelings…I asked for time." She admitted.

"Yes, and you've been avoiding him for the last two weeks." Dorian said, sarcasm in his voice.

"Ugh, why can't women just be blunt about these things. It's not hard yeah? You want the guy go for it, if you don't want the guy just say so. Yeah they're goin to be pissed but at least you're being front bout it." Sera said, biting a piece of cookie.

"For the first time, I actually agree with our dear Sera on that." Dorian said. "Why can't you ladies just be upfront? It's not that hard. People get hurt, but eventually time will heal."

Lavellan and Erelan simultaneously sighed in defeat. Shoulders slump, head down. Both of them are right, instead of just running or ignoring it, they should just face the problem no matter how difficult it is.

"It's been two weeks, I think you two should stop running and start facing it." Sera said.

"I agree. It's awkward being in the same room, and there is some tension going on between the four of you. Like that one night at the Tavern, when finally, we all had the break we've been waiting for, only to be spoiled by four of you." Dorian said as a matter of fact.

Lavellan and Erelan looked at eachother. It was the night when the advisors and the whole party had some time to breath. Everyone agreed to meet up at the Tavern, by Varric's request of course. Every single one of them agreed to join. It was supposed to be a lovely evening until Erelan, Lavellan, Solas and Cullen were sitting across eachother on the table. It was the first time they have seen eachother after so long, instead of a happy reunion it was awkward. No one, out of the four of them, even dared to look at eachother or speak to eachother, which added more tension in the group. Unable to cope with the whole weird shit going on, Sera left followed by Blackwall, and then Leliana until one by one they all left.

"You're right…we should…fix this." Lavellan said.

"Good, can you make it quick then? Cause there is another gathering coming up and we would like this to be a successful one." Dorian said, drinking the rest of his tea.

A soft knock came from Lavellan's door and everyone knew who it was; Josephine.

"Come in." Lavellan called out.

Josephine opened the door and walked the stairs up to her room. She is carrying a letter. Her face, that is usually always smiling, showed nothing but distress. Lavellan set her cup down, and walked up to Josephine.

"What's wrong Josie?" She asked, worried that Josephine might be sick.

"I received a letter…from…your Clan. They are asking…for help." She replied, handing Lavellan the letter.

Lavellan quickly took the letter and started reading out loud for everyone to hear in the room.

"Da'len,

I would not trouble you normally. You have enough on your shoulders, fighting ancient Tevinter magisters while representing your people. Unfortunately, the rifts that plague this land have spread chaos and fear along with the, and many seek to take advantage of it.

Bandits are attacking Clan Lavellan…"

She could barely keep reading as fear and anxiety took over. She looked at Josephine and then back to her group. They nodded for her to go, understanding the situation.

"Josephine, call everyone. Now." She ordered.

Josephine nodded, and together they left her room. Erelan, Dorian and Sera gave eachother a worried look, worried for their friend and worried what the outcome will be.

In the war room; Cullen, Josephine, Leliana and Lavellan talked amongst themselves.

"The duke of Wycome is an inquisition ally, it is odd for him to let bandits so close to his city. Perhaps he could help the Dalish." Josephine suggested.

"These seem too powerful to be mere bandits. My skirmishers can harass their flanks and give the Dalish a chance to retreat safely while I uncover the truth." Leliana added.

"No simple bandits would attack a Dalish camp with such force. My troops can give the Dalish much-needed support." Cullen commented.

They looked at Lavellan, waiting for her instructions. Lavellan started biting her thumb nail, contemplating on what to do first.

"Josie, how long will it take for the Duke to arrive?" She asked, looking at the letter and the map.

"A week, maybe it…depends on how fast he can muster up soldiers." Josephine answered, unsure.

"I see. Leliana?"

"I already have some scouts stationed at the area, all I need to do is send out a crow and they will be there in a matter of time." Leliana replied.

"Cullen, how long will your soldiers take?" Lavellan asked.

"As soon as you give out the order, they will be ready to leave today." Cullen replied, reassuring.

Lavellan pinched the bridge of her nose. Thinking, and planning on what to do first, and how to do it. She closed her eyes, and exhaled.

"Josie, send a letter to the Duke requesting for his help, Leliana send a crow to your scouts and have them help escape the area, Cullen send your fastest men to place, and protect the clan however they have to. Work together, and give me the reports you received no matter what. I want to know what is going on." She ordered.

All three advisors nodded and immediately started working on their task. Lavellan, left alone in the war room, looked at the map and prayed to her Gods that her clan will be alive and well. She walked out of the room, passing Josephine's desk and to her room. Dorian and Sera had left, only Erelan stayed behind to wait for news. Seeing Lavellan's grimed face, Erelan stood up from her spot and walked over to her and hugged her. Lavellan knew that this will be one agonizing wait, and sleepless nights to come.


For three days, the advisors and Lavellan spent most of their time in the war room. Ever since the keeper of Lavellan asked for help, they have been on constant communication from their respected allies. They read reports day in and day out. The duke promised to send out forces, but in from Cullen and Leliana's reports says there was no forces sent by the Duke. Something is not right. She ordered Leliana to have someone investigate further. In the meantime, Cullen's forces will keep fighting off the bandits, along with the clan's fighters. Then the Keeper sent a letter.

Da'len,

I cannot thank you enough for all the help you have given. Because of your aid, we are safe. It is with great pride and joy to know you have not forgotten where you came from and who you are. I am proud of the woman you have become, and all of the things you have done to keep peace in the world.

May the dreadwolf never catch your scent.

Dareth Shiral,

Keeper Istimaethoriel Lavellan

Lavellan sighed, and slumped on her couch. Dark circles showing around her eyes. Ever since this whole thing started she has not been able to sleep well, let alone sleep at all. Her body heavy and tired, could barely keep up with everything. It's not only her clan she has to protect, but the whole bloody world. Varric had told her he knows someone who fought Corypheus before. The person is already on its way. Rifts have been spotted almost everywhere, more so in Emerald Graves. There is so much to do. Another thing to add to the list the Winter Ball is coming up in less than a month. Josephine has already started picking out fabrics for the dress she has to wear to the Ball. Leliana is going to train her how to play the 'game'. On top of that, she has to learn to dance. Apparently the traditional Dalish dance does not count. She leaned her head on the couch and stared at the ceiling.

A soft knock and the door opening made her turn her head to see Erelan with a tray on her hands. A kettle, two cups and a small plate of cookies, most likely made by Sera. Erelan smiled as she sets the tray down, and poured some tea in a cup and offered it to her. Lavellan gratefully took the cup and sip some of it. The tea tasted a little different than normal. She smacked her lips; there is floral taste and a hint of…strawberry? She looked at Erelan, confusion clearly showing on her face. Erelan, gave her a sweet smile.

"I did a little experiment. I mashed some daisies, and strawberries, and heated up some milk, brew it all together, mixed in some honey to add some sweetness." She replied.

"This is…amazing!" Lavellan exclaimed, this time chugging the drink.

Erelan chuckled, and poured her another. "I'm glad you like it, though I wasn't sure." She replied. Then she poured some in the other cup for herself and sat next to Lavellan. "So…everything all right?"

Lavellan knew what she is asking. She gave out a heavy sigh as she leaned her head back on the couch. "My keeper sent a letter, thanking us. She said they are safe, but I can't help feeling that she is not telling me everything. Or maybe I'm just being paranoid." She chuckled at the thought.

"No, I don't think you are. If it's telling you something is not right, then hold onto it until you know for sure they are truly safe." Erelan replied.

"Thank you." Lavellan smiled. "Also for this delicious tea. You are just full of surprises." She teased.

"I try." Erelan replied with a playful grin.

They both sat down in silence, grabbing a cookie to eat, and dip in the tea. Lavellan is thankful that Erelan joined the inquisition. She feels more connected with her than anyone else, besides Solas, but his is different. For her, Erelan is someone that understands her views on almost everything. She has never once argued with Lavellan's views on the creators or Gods she came to believe. How the Dalish interprets the teachings of their Gods. Solas on the other hand, given a chance, would argue and tell Lavellan that the Dalish people are wrong. Lavellan once compared both Solas and Erelan. They are clearly opposite from eachother, except they both have that grace, and elegance in their steps, like royals. She wonders if they secretly come from one. No matter what, for her, Erelan is like a sister she never had. Being an only child, she always felt lonely, even within her clan. Once her magic manifested, she became first of her clan. She rarely spent outside, let alone play with other kids. She was always inside with the Keeper, learning their history, culture, and what is expected of her. She didn't realize that she has been staring at Erelan for a long time, until Erelan spoke to her.

"Uhm…Levy…is something on my face?" She asked, blinking and touching her face.

"Oh! Forgive me, no no…I was just thinking how glad I am you joined the inquisition." She replied. Erelan looked at her, surprised.

"I…uh…thank you. I'm happy to be here." She said, bowing her head slightly.

"You're truly like a sister to me. I mean…you did say we are sisters…I…just feel like you're really a sister I never had. I'm just happy. Don't change."

Erelan, speechless just smiled, but on the inside she couldn't help but feel remorse and depressed. She has always been truthful about almost everything, except for the fact who she and Solas really are. Solas' plan of tearing down the veil, which will end the world as she knows it. Right there and then she wanted to tell Lavellan everything, but knew it would just create more problems. She slowly got up and set her cup down.

"I…should get going." She said, clearing her throat. "I still have injuries to tend to. After all I am one of the healers."

"Of course. I understand. Thank you again." Lavellan replied, smiling.

Erelan nodded and swiftly left the room, towards the courtyard. Lavellan, looked down her drink and poured more, taking another cookie and sat in silence.

In the rotunda, Solas has been plagued by a nightmare. He sipped some tea he made, and made a disgusted look. He detests this stuff, but he needed something to clear his mind. His longest and oldest friend Wisdom has begged him for help. She has been summoned into the real world against her will. By magic.

It has been almost three weeks since he last talked and seen Lavellan. She had purposely kept her distance from him, since the incident in Fallow Mire. He should be glad that she is staying away, but for some unknown reason, he misses her. Her touch, her smile, her smell and the way her eyes lit every time something catches her curiosity. The way she asks him questions that is beyond her years. He missed those moments, in fact all the moments he had shared with her.

'Fenedhis!'

Lavellan and her advisors has been kept busy with the attack on her clan. It is the hottest gossip and topic in Skyhold. Now was not the time to ask her for help with his. Unfortunately, he is running out of time and have no choice but to ask.


It has been ages since he set foot in his old office, now known as the inquisitor's chamber. He used to give out orders to the sentinels as their general in battles, carefully planned almost everything. Even the creation of the veil. He took a deep breath and knocked on the door., no response. He knocked again, louder this time, nothing. He turned the knob and the door opened. She left the door unlocked. Odd. He will address this matter later, now is not the time. He slowly ascends the stairs, as he took the last step he looked around. He could barely recognize his old office. Orlesian bed, Dalish curtains, and a lot of trinkets she picked from their missions arranged on top of her dresser. She practically made it her own. He looked over to his right and found her sleeping. He walked closer and noticed on the table, two cups one empty cup the other half empty. A kettle and a half eaten cookie on a plate. As he looked closely at the kettle, he realized it's his sisters. She has been here. A small smile formed on his face. He looked at Lavellan, she looks peaceful, but the dark circles under her eyes betrayed the fact she has been having trouble sleeping. His heart ached, knowing the reason why she hasn't asked for his assistance. He noticed parchment on her lap, he tilted his head a bit, and found it is a letter from her Keeper. Unable to find himself to wake her, he turned around and walked towards the door. He didn't get far when her heard her voice.

"Solas?" She said with a hoarse voice. He turned around and saw her rubbing her eyes. He stood still from his spot.

"Forgive me, I didn't mean to wake you." He said, apologetically.

"No…no I didn't even realize I fell asleep. Please sit." She gestured for him to sit next to her.

He stood there for a moment contemplating if he should leave or not. Slowly, he made his way, sitting one seat away from her. If Lavellan noticed the distance, she made sure not to show her disappointment. Instead, she poured some tea for herself.

"So…what brings you here?" She asked, taking a sip.

Solas hesitated for a moment, debating if he should ask. She already has a lot on her mind, why should he add more? His train of thought got disrupted by her voice. How he misses hearing her voice.

"Solas? What's wrong?" She stared at him, concerned.

"I…don't mean to impose." He said, pouring a cup of tea for himself.

"Well…I wouldn't ask if it were." She replied, smiling at him.

He took a sip of the tea and made a disgusted look. She giggled.

"I take it you don't like tea." She said, hiding her smile with her cup.

"It's tea. I detest it." He admitted.

"Ah…I like it. Ery made it. If you don't like it, why are you drinking it?" She asked.

"I…I needed something to clear my mind." He replied.

"And…drinking tea helps that? It must be something big for you to actually drink something you hate." She teased.

"Actually…I…have a request." He said, taking another sip.

"Oh? This is the first time you have asked for help with something." She replied, raising an eyebrow. "you never asked for help before."

"One of my oldest friends has been captured by mages, forced into slavery. I heard the cry for help as I slept." He said.

"When your friend was captured, how did he…she…" Her words trailed off.

"IT." He replied, looking at her for any reaction. She looked back at him, confused.

"It?"

"My friend is a spirit of wisdom." He started. "Unlike the spirits clamoring to enter our world through the rifts, it was dwelling quite happily in the fade." It was summoned against its will, and wants my help to gain its freedom and return to the fade." He finished.

Lavellan shifted on her seat. "I thought…spirits wanted to find their way into this world."

"Some do, certainly, just as many Orlesian peasants wish they could journey to exotic rivain. But not everyone wants to go to rivain. My friend is an explorer, seeking lost wisdom and reflecting it. It would happily discuss philosophy with you, but it had no wish to come here physically."

"Do you have any idea what the mages want with your friend?"

"No. It knows a great deal of lore and history, but a mage could learn that simply by speaking to it in the fade. It is possible that they seek information it does not wish to give and intend to torture it."

They sat in silence, waiting for her response. She looked at her now empty cup and debated what to do. She set it down on the table and got up. She held her arms up high and stretched infront of Solas, showing a little bit of her toned stomach. Solas could not help but stare at the mini exposure of her skin. He averted his eyes just in time for her to look at him.

"Well then…let's go save your friend. So…where are we going exactly?"

"Thank you. I know you have other important things to do. Your clan-" She held her hand up for him to stop.

"You have helped me in my times of need Solas, I should return the favor." She said.

"My friend is located somewhere in The Exalted Plains."

"Great, we can save your friend and deal with the Empress and Duke's soldiers there. All in one!" She chirped.

"We can leave tomorrow if you'd like." He suggested.

"Nonsense, we are leaving today. I've cooped up in this place far too long, and I think everyone else shares my opinion on that part." She said, smiling at him.

"Thank you…Lavellan." He replied.

She felt her knees weaken when he said her name. That was a surprise, she didn't know what to say, only she just smiled genuinely.

As soon as they both walked out her chambers, a series of whispers and stares are heard and seen. Well, least now she knows they will be the heated discussions now in Skyhold. As they came near the rotunda, she noticed Varric wasn't at his spot. They went inside and separated ways, he stayed behind packing up for the trip, she walked up the stairs looking for the party that is willing to leave today. First stop Dorian; not in his spot. Weird. Next Vivienne; gone in some kind of Circle business as the sign says. She walked further up where Leliana is tending to the Crows, and found her sitting.

"Leliana." She greeted.

"Inquisitor." Leliana replied, standing up. "Something you need?"

"Ah, yes actually Solas' friend is in trouble and he is asking for assistance. I am wondering if you know where everyone is?"

"I believe they are in the Tavern." Leliana replied.

"Should of thought of that…thank you!"


Lavellan waved goodbye as she ran down the stairs. Passing a bewildered Solas and out the courtyard, towards the Tavern. She unknowingly burst the door open, panting heavily. The music stopped playing, people drinking almost choked, and others stared at her, puzzled. In the corner, are the people she has desperately been looking for. She wasn't exactly expecting a lot of them, but there they were, Cassandra, Bull, Varric, Dorian, Sera, Blackwall, Cole who occasionally disappears to help someone hurting, and to her surprise Erelan. Everyone in the table stared at her, and then beckoned her to come over. She walked towards them, contemplating on who to ask, but she could tell all of them are restless.

"Hey guys." She greeted.

"Hey boss." "Quizzy!" "Inquisitor." "Levy!" They all greeted in unison.

"So…uhm…I…we have a mission, and I was-" She couldn't finish her sentence when they all, except Erelan cheered.

"Finally! I thought we were going to be some sitting ducks or something." Varric said.

"So where we going boss?" Bull asked.

"I hope somewhere nice?" Dorian added.

"Pfft…with her as our leader you know it's never somewhere nice." Sera said.

"I am eager to hit something that fights back." Cassandra said.

"I'm always ready to help people, in anyway." Blackwall said.

"Well…then I'm guessing everyone is joining for this mission. So, we are going to the exalted plains." She waited for their response. Cole appeared out of nowhere, making everyone jump off their seats.

"Andraste's ass! You scared us half to death kid!" Varric exclaimed.

"Sorry." Cole replied, apologetically. "Tired. Help. Heart ache. Friend in trouble. I want to save his friend; I have to help him." Cole gasps. "Solas asked for help."

"Yes Cole, he needs all of our help." Lavellan said.

"Creepy doing it again…being creepy." Sera muttered.

"So…is everyone down?" Lavellan asked with hesitance in her voice.

"When do we leave?" Blackwall asked.

"…Today…right now." She replied.

They all sat there quiet, calculating, and debating. They looked at eachother, and nodded in agreement.

"Of course we are, we can't let you have all the fun." Dorian said, getting up. "Well then time to pack, I'm guessing this will be more than…a week? Maybe two?"

"Most likely…three."

One by one they all stood up, leaving the Tavern to pack up for their three-week mission, except for Erelan. Lavellan sat down, opposite of her.

"Does…Solas talk to you about spirits? Or…do you have experience with spirits like he does?" Lavellan asked. Erelan shifted on her seat, and cleared her throat.

"Why...what makes you ask…think that?" Erelan replied.

"Well…its…no secret that you two talk to eachother…I'm not saying I'm jealous…just thought since he talks to you more…he might have told you about…things."

"Ah…well…yes on both, he has talked about them, and…I personally do know some spirits while exploring the fade, not…with him just on my own."

"His…friend Spirit of Wisdom has been captured. I'm afraid that we won't be there in time to help…and something bad happens…and…I…I'm scared what it will do to him."

"You want me to join your mission?"

"…Yes. If…that isn't a problem."

"Of course, I'll go get ready then."

"Thank you."

They both went out the tavern and separated ways. After an hour or so everyone is ready to head out. It is the first time that all party members, aside from Vivienne, are all together. Solas is the last person to walk out, the stable boy gave him his hart. Everyone stared at him in silence, as they all mounted up. He was surprised to see his sister, mounted next to Lavellan, they both caught eachother's eyes and stared for a moment, and then he mounted. The advisors and some of the refugees, gathered to see them off. Lavellan waved at them and they headed out to the exalted plains.


The trip is supposed to take at least a week, but they made good time by barely stopping, only to sleep for the night and then riding off early in the morning, much to some of the party's irritation. They arrived in the exalted plains in three days. Solas made no attempt to hide his agitation, he paced back and forth at their camp. It is late at night and most of the party exhausted from a full day ride already retired in their tents after dinner, Lavellan is one of them. Erelan came out of her tent, and sat on a log and reawakened the fire with her magic. He didn't flinch or bothered to acknowledge her. Erelan watched her brother, and finally spoke to him in elvhen.

"Can you please…calm down and sit down. Your making me dizzy."

"Don't tell me to calm down. You of all people should understand. Wisdom is OUR oldest friend. How could you be so calm?!"

"Unlike you…I know how to control my emotions. I am restless and angry as well, but you must calm down. At least for HER sake. She is worried about you."

"…Ir abelas…I…I didn't know." He stopped pacing around and sat down opposite her.

"Of course not…your too wrapped up about your own problem, you forget SHE is also having her own crisis, but putting them aside for you." She huffed.

"Your right, I shouldn't let my emotions get to me. We will save Wisdom tomorrow…I believe we will."

"I'll take over the watch if you want."

"No, I'm alright."

"Then…I'll stay. These heavy snores coming from almost everyone is keeping me awake."

"Ma nuvenin."

They both sat in silence, Erelan adding more wood to the fire. Solas started reading to calm his mind. Hours passed and Bull took over. Solas, instead of going to his shared tent walked away from the camp to find a quiet spot to see if his friend is still alive. Erelan stayed with Bull, it was the first time for both of them to actually talk one on one. Bull shared some stories about his missions with The Chargers, Erelan listened attentively. As they talked, Cassandra came out from the tent to take over the watch, together all three of them sat by the campfire until the morning sun came up.

Everyone now dressed, and eaten their breakfast are now ready to head out. Scout Harding greeted them, and told the Lavellan the place's bloody history, and the war that took place. Undead, swarming the area. Lavellan felt herself shiver from the mention that they will encounter undead. Bull, and Sera snickered. She looked down the map on the table and started to plan out, the area is huge. She looked at the places that marked, green for rifts, gold for the duke and empress celene's soldiers camp, plagued by undead. She turned around to look at the group who are in deep conversation with eachother, Bull, Sera and Varric teasing the others, while Blackwall, Dorian and Cassandra are shaking their heads. Erelan and Cole staring out the horizon. Solas? Where is Solas. Lavellan looked around and found that Solas is gone.

"Has anyone seen Solas?" She called out to them.

"Sorry boss, the last time Erelan and I saw him, he walked away from the camp." Bull replied.

As if on cue, Solas appeared from the sides, and walked towards them. Lavellan sighed in relief.

'Ah…his okay. Thank creators.'

"Hey! Baldy! Where have you been?" Sera asked.

"Nothing that concerns you." Solas replied, sharp and cold.

"Whatever." Sera muttered.

Lavellan, feeling the tension growing, cleared her throat.

"Okay, so this is the plan. Blackwall, Varric, and Erelan will go to the southern to look for the Orlesian army. Bull, Dorian and Sera will take the northern area, same thing, look for the army. Cassandra, Cole, Solas and I, will go look for his friend. Everyone understood?"

"Yeah!" They all agreed in unison.

"Let's all meet back here when we are done. Please be safe out there!"

Erelan walked towards Lavellan and whispered in her ear. "Don't let him kill." With those words, she and her group left the camp. Lavellan looked at Erelan confused, but heeded her warning.


Everyone grabbed their weapons, potions and some poultices and headed out to their destination. Before Lavellan's party could walk out further, a rage demon and a terror demon appeared. They fought them off easy and in minutes the demons are dead. They turned left and walked the path ahead of them. They followed the river bank, her anchor flared up signaling a rift is nearby, and in just minutes there in the middle demons poured out. They went into their positions. It didn't take long until they all defeated the demons, and she closed the rift. As they keep walking, they ran into a Dalish camp. That was a surprise.

"Andaran Atish'an. I am Keeper Hawen."

"What is your clan doing here?" Lavellan asked.

"We were just passing by until we got attacked, for now we are just trying to get by."

"If you need any help, only ask." Lavellan offered.

"I'm sure some of my members may need help."

"I'll be sure to ask them. Dareth Shiral."

"May the dreadwolf never catch your scent."

Lavellan and the party left the camp for now, and returned to searching for Solas' friend. As they kept going, Solas' stopped looking straight ahead. Lavellan looked at him, he looked at her.

"We are close. I can tell."

With those words he sprinted off, Cole disappearing, Lavellan and Cassandra running after. They didn't run far, Solas along with Cole beside him stood still shocked. Lavellan and Cassandra stopped behind them, catching their breath. Lavellan looked up and to her horror saw a Pride demon, with wards around it. She looked at Solas to find his face full of rage.

"No…no no no! My friend!" He gasps, shaking his head furiously.

"The mages turned your friend into a demon." She said, almost a whisper.

"Yes." He hissed.

"You said your friend is a spirit of wisdom. Not a fighter."

"A spirit becomes a demon when denied its original purpose." He explained

"So they summoned it for something so opposed to its own nature that it was corrupted, fighting?"

Before Solas could reply, a man walked towards them.

"Let us ask them!" Solas growled.

"A Mage! You're not with the bandits?" The man asked. "Do you have any lyrium potions? Most of us are exhausted, we've been fighting that demon…"

"You Summoned that demon! Except it was a spirit of wisdom at the time. You made it kill! You twisted it against its purpose!" Solas yelled at the man.

"I…I…I understand how it might be confusing to someone who has not studied demons, but after you help us, I can…"

"We are not here to help you." Solas said bitterly.

"Word of advice? I'd hold off on explaining how demons work to my friend here." Lavellan replied, trying to sound calm.

"Listen to me! I was one of the foremost experts in the Kirkwall circle-"

"Shut. Up." Solas snapped. "You summoned it to protect you from the bandits."

"I—Yes."

"You bound it to obedience, then commanded it to kill. That is when it turned. The summoning circle. We break it, we break the binding, no orders to kill, no conflict with its nature, no demon." Solas said, looking at Lavellan.

"What? The binding is the only thing keeping the demon from killing us! Whatever it was before, it is a monster now!"

"Lavellan…please." He pleaded.

"We will break the binding. Cassandra, I need you to distract the demon, do not hurt it. Just block when it attacks you, please." Lavellan ordered looking at her.

"I will try." Cassandra replied, readying her shield.

"Cole, Solas and I will break the binding."

With those words, they ran up to the demon and the circle. Solas, Cole and Lavellan all took different pillars to destroy. Cassandra taunted the demon, as she rolled and used her shield for protection, dodging as much attack as she can, and taunting it to keep it on her. Solas easily broke one of the pillars and went to the last one. Cole broke the other, and helped Solas with the last one. Lavellan almost finished destroying hers, when Cassandra ran out of stamina and the demon turned around to shoot out a lighting ball at Lavellan.

"Inquisitor!" Cassandra yelled.

Lavellan looked up, instantly her body flew backwards, electrified by the demon's attack. Cassandra taunted the demon, and was about to attack it when…

"DO NOT ATTACK IT!" Lavellan yelled.

Cassandra stopped right infront of the demon and swiftly held her shield up when the demon slammed its fists on her. The pillar Solas and Cole worked on broke. He fades stepped towards Lavellan, as Cole broke the last pillar. Lavellan's body shaken by the attack, held her hand to stop him inches from her.

"You'll…get hurt." She managed to say.

Solas shook his head, and helped her up. She winced at the sudden pain all over her body. The binding circle broke, Solas' friend returned to what it was. Solas handed Lavellan to Cassandra, as he walked over to his old friend.

"Lethallin, Ir abelas." He said, voice chocking from sadness.

"Tel'abelas. Enasal. Ir tel'him. Ma melava malani. Mala suldein nadas. Ma ghilana mir din'an." Wisdom replied.

Solas closed his eyes as he looked away. With regret. "Ma nuvenin." He said. With a gentle wave of his hand, wisdom gave him a sweet smile and slowly turned into ashes. Lavellan watched Solas, saddened they couldn't save his friend. "Dareth…shiral." He whispered.

"I heard…what it said. I may not be fluent…but you did everything that you could." She said, trying to comfort him with words.

"Thank you. Now…I must endure."

"I'm sorry Solas."

"Don't be. We gave it a moment's peace before the end. That's more than it might have had. All that remains now is them." He said, glaring at the approaching mages.

"Thank you. We would not have risked a summoning, but the roads are too dangerous to travel unprotected." The same mage said.

"You! Tortured and killed my friend!" Solas growled as he walked closer towards them.

"We didn't know it was just a spirit! The book said it could help us!"

"Solas! Stop!" Lavellan pleaded, leaning on Cassandra for support.

"They! Killed! My friend!" Solas screamed.

"Killing them will not bring your friend back!"

"It will avenge it at least!"

"I don't think your friend wants this Solas! Please!"

Solas tightened his fists, but turned around away from the mages. Lavellan sighed in relief, but felt a slight guilt for not letting him kill them. They deserved to be killed, but then it wasn't their fault, they had no idea. She limped towards him, as he stared down the ground, unmoving, still angry and in mourning for his friend.

"Solas…"

"I…need some time alone. I will…meet you back in camp…or Skyhold." With those words, he walked away from the group. Lavellan let him go, understanding he had just lost someone precious to him.

'They must have been friends for a very long time.'

'Erelan probably knew…he would do something…is that why she warned me?'

'Only one way to know, ask her.'

Night time was starting to creep up on the area. Lavellan and now three of her companions were the first one to arrive. Since there is no healer for now, Cassandra tended to her wounds. She can still feel the electricity flowing around her, at least she only got light scratches and a non-threatening wounds. Later on, Bull and his party returned, soaked in blood, mostly Bull. Dorian, noticed Solas wasn't around and asked where he is, and why she looked dreadful. Lavellan just shook her head and told him she will tell him later. Moments later, Blackwall and his party arrived also soaked in blood, besides Erelan, she was almost clean, just tiny specks of blood on her armor betrayed that. She looked pale, almost like something had took all her mana away. Erelan swiftly went inside her shared tent and laid down. Lavellan followed, leaving the rest of the group to clean up.

"Are you alright?" Lavellan asked.

"Yes." Erelan replied, barely a whisper.

"You look pale, like something had drained your life away."

"…Just tired, that is all."

Lavellan noticed how Erelan is avoiding this conversation. Normally she would answer her straight away, only this time she's being indirect.

'She and Solas are almost alike.'

The only difference is probably the fact that Solas prides himself with his ego and wit, while Erelan hides her qualities. Who knows, perhaps she is wiser than he.

"Levy…I'm sorry, but I'd like to be alone…for now."

"Of course. Let me know if you need anything."

Erelan hummed in agreement, and Lavellan left the tent. She went back to the group, now mostly clean and sat down with them. She looked at Blackwall and Varric.

"Blackwall. Varric. Did something…happen to Ery, while looking for the soldiers?" She asked.

"She was fine for a moment while fighting the undead and helping the soldiers with reclaiming their camp." Blackwall said.

"Well…it was after we helped the last camp when we left and she just fell on the ground, screaming in pain." Varric added.

"Screaming? She was in pain? How long ago was that?" Lavellan asked, brow furrowed, thinking.

"Hmm…I'd say around…mid-noon?" Blackwall replied.

"Why ya ask?" Sera chimed in the conversation.

"Mid-noon…wasn't that the same time Solas' friend died?" Cassandra added.

"You mean you guys couldn't save his friend?" Dorian asked.

Lavellan looked down and shook her head. "No…we were too late." She said regretfully.

"Well…that explains why elfy isn't here." Sera grumbled.

Lavellan started calculating about the time they found Wisdom, how long it took them to take the binding down, and the time of wisdom death. It seemed too much of a coincidence that Ery would suddenly fall ill. She shrugged the thought and instead looked at the tent. She debated if she should see if Ery is alright, but she had asked to be alone.

'Ugh, I this is getting more and more depressing, first Solas, now Ery?'

'Don't forget your clan.'

Everything was coming down hard. If she wasn't the 'Herald' 'The inquisitor', titles that the shems had freely given her, she would have crashed from all this. Breathing in heavily, she closed her eyes and counted from one to whatever number, until her inner turmoil is calmed down. She is starting to become a master of masking all of her regrets, worries, sorrows, pains, and the burden of being the only person to save the world from destruction. Silently everyone turned in for the night in their shared tents. Tomorrow they had to close the rifts, and help the Dalish people Lavellan found.

Rifts after rifts, she closed, they fought and closed. If there wasn't nine people fighting the demons, this wouldn't be an easy task. Each demon they encountered seemed to be getting stronger, worst of all a Revenant and Knight had to be one of them. With nine people, helping the Dalish clan with their necessities was even easier. Although, it was fun to watch Sera, trying to lure the golden halla, luckily Cole was there cooing it with soft, kind words. One of the clan's elf Loranil, even joined the inquisition with the keeper's approval. He is one excited elf. Solas has not returned, and Lavellan has no choice but to return to Skyhold, everyone is eager to go back after their long ordeal. As night settles in, everyone packed up for tomorrow's trip back to Skyhold.


The trip back to Skyhold wasn't all that unpleasant. Their new recruit, talked endlessly he was very eager and excited to do whatever the inquisition asks him. Lavellan smiled at his innocence, she prays to the creators that the inquisition won't disappoint him or change him. Erelan had been quiet since the day she returned. Lavellan, at wits ends, rode beside her.

"Hey." She said.

"Inquisitor!" Erelan yelped in surprise.

Apparently Lavellan had startled her.

"Inquisitor? You never called me that…even before…" Lavellan said, confusion and sadness in her voice.

"OH…ir abelas…Levy." Erelan said, apologetically.

"It's alright, how are you feeling now? After…you know…"

"Yes…I'm feeling better. I probably over exerted myself out there."

"Varric said you were screaming in pain. Are you sure you're okay?"

"Ah…yes. I'm fine. Please don't worry. I heard…Solas' friend didn't live."

"Yes…we tried, but we were too late. At least we freed it in the end."

"That's good." Ery replied, sighing heavily.

"Ery…when…you told me to not let him kill…did you know what he was about to do?" Lavellan asked, hesitant and uncertain if Ery would even give her an answer.

"Solas…has mentioned to me about his friend before, and they seemed to have been friends for a long time…he seemed to be very protective of… wisdom. If anything bad happened, he seems to be the type of not letting anything go."

Lavellan looked on, what Ery said seems to be true. She may not know Solas as much as she wants to, but he seemed to be a man of holding grudges. Also a man who will regret whatever actions he took later on. Both women rode side by side, in silence. They camped out for the nights on the road until a week later they finally arrived in Skyhold.

Skyhold seemed to have more people than before. Everyone eagerly went their separate ways to either freshen up, or to drink like there is no tomorrow. Lavellan quickly asked Josephine if she could have a bath ready for her. As she settles in her huge chamber, she looked on her desk and found piles of reports and letters from her keeper. She read through each letter, clan is doing fine, but the duke is still hunting them down. The keeper obviously is not telling her everything. She read reports, that the duke is working with a venatori. Of course. It's always the venatoris. She sighed, and a servant came in and started preparing her bath. After the servant told her the bath is ready. She thanked her, as she gave her fifteen silvers. Lavellan anxiously took off her dirty clothes and started cleaning herself.

She probably spent an hour in the tub, when her door burst open, startling her and Erelan made her way. She seemed to had ran, breathing heavily she kneeled down almost slipping from the water on the floor.

"Ery! What's wrong?! Something happened?!" Lavellan asked franticly.

"Levy…it's…it's…" Ery took a deep breath. "Solas, his back."

Lavellan's eyes widened and she stood up abruptly, naked infront of Ery. She hurriedly jumped out of the tub, and hastily dried herself. Finding a clean shirt and leggings, she dressed herself. Ery still kneeling ushered her to hurry. Lavellan breathed a 'Thank you' and ran out of the chamber. She could hear the nobles staying with them whispering behind her back, but she didn't care. Solas. Solas is back.

As she neared the entrance, she slowed down to walk. She calmed herself before descending down the stairs. Not far from where she is, Solas entered the gate and is already making his way towards her. They both knew eyes were on them, but she didn't care, it's been too long since she has seen, talk and even feel him. They both met halfway. As she stared at him, broken and depressed, she knew he was still in mourning for his friend.

"Inquisitor." He said.

"Solas…" That came out of a whisper. "How…how are you?"

Seeing him now, close enough to touch him. She has to battle herself from tackling him and just hugging like there is no tomorrow.

"It hurts, it always does, but I will survive." He replied.

"I'm sorry…"

"You did everything that you could."

"Thank…you for coming back."

"I could hardly abandon you now."

She kicked the ground, hands behind her back debating if she should pester him with questions. But as always her curiosity got to her.

"Where…did you go? If you don't mind me asking."

"I found a quiet spot and went to sleep. I visited the place in the fade where my friend used to be. It's empty, but there are stirrings of energy in the void. Someday something new may grow there."

"What happens when a spirit dies?" Damn her and her curiosity! Clearly he is hurt, but she wants to know.

"It's isn't the same as for mortals. The energy of spirits returns to the fade. If the idea giving the spirit form is strong, or if the memory has shaped other spirits, it may someday rise again."

"So…your friend might come back?" She really needs to be stop!

"No…not really. A spirit's natural state is peaceful semi-existence. It is rare to be able to reflect reality. Something similar may reform one day, but it might have a different personality. It would likely not remember me. It would not be the friend I knew." He replied, sadness obvious in his voice.

"You…don't have to be alone Solas. I'm here for you." She said, unconsciously putting a hand on his arm.

"It's been so long since I could trust someone."

"I know." She stepped a little closer towards him, her hand not letting his arm go.

"I'll work on it…and work on…showing my feelings…for you." He replied, tracing her jawline. "Thank you...Vhenan." He bowed down, their forehead touching as they stare at eachother's eyes. They both smiled at eachother, feeling relaxed at eachother's company.

Who gives a damn if people saw them, acting affectionately in public. She sure as hell didn't. She misses him. He in truth misses her, more than he liked to admit. A loud clearing of a throat broke their trance as they both looked up and saw Leliana. Her expression, solemn as she held out a letter. Lavellan's smile faded, as she reached for the letter. Leliana whispered an apology as she turned around and left. Solas, wrapped his arms around her waist, as she opens the letter, hands shaking. She started reading the letter loud enough so only Solas could hear.

"Dalen,

They have found us. Their forces have grown twice as before. I fear this will be my last letter. You did everything that you could, and I am proud to call you my first. Do not mourn for us…"

She barely finished the letter. Her knees went weak. She would have fallen, if not for Solas lifting her off the ground, carrying her bridal style. He walked towards the hallway, all the way to her room. Solas felt her body shake, he whispered words of comfort, though he is not sure if it's working. Lavellan buried her face on his chest. She knew everyone's eyes are on them, but she didn't care. As a matter of fact, she doesn't give a shit about anything any longer. Josephine greeted them at the door to her chamber and opened it, Solas nodded in thanks and Josephine left them alone. He set her down on the bed, he was about to leave when she grabbed his hand. Her eyes, pleading him not to leave. He took her hand, and laid next to her, wrapping his arms around her as she cried out on his chest. He rubbed her back. Clan Lavellan has been mercilessly annihilated. Solas felt rage, whoever killed them will not live to see another day. The Dread Wolf will make sure of it.

Author's notes:

Well now...someone is pissed off.

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