Author's notes:

There will be a lot of in-game conversation. I did try to change some of it.

Also there will be more OC characters introduced-ish for the future of this story.

Hope you will like this chapter!

WARNING: Some graphic, violence and rape happens!

Game On

The Inquisition stood tall, and proud right on the front door. Already the people around them have started whispering to eachother.

"Is the Elf really the Herald?"

"What? The Elf savage?"

"Maker! I hope not."

"I heard she closed the Breach."

"An Elf?"

Levy rolled her eyes and clenched her fists. How she wants to just burn and freeze everyone right now. Josephine cleared her throat, and whispered to her.

"Smile Inquisitor. We don't want to look rude." She said as she smiles to everyone around.

Levy did as she is told. She straightened her back and smiled. They all started walking up the stairs when a voice stopped them all in their tracks.

"You! What are you doing zere with ze guests?"

They turned around and saw an Orlesian noble grabbing Ery by the arm, harshly.

"Oh! Forgive me monsieur I am new and..." Ery played her part as a scared and lost servant on point.

"Bah! Come! Zis way to ze Kitchen! Elves, the lot of you can rot!"

Everyone in the Inquisition glared at the soldier as he pulls Ery away. Ery gave them a reassuring smile, as she disappears from sight. Cullen, whose hand settled on his sword, clenched his teeth. Leliana puts a hand on his shoulder shaking her head. He took a deep breath and let go of his sword. Everyone looked at eachother and kept walking towards the Vestibule.

"Ahh...The Inquisitor. Finally, we meet face to face." A voice said.

Levy turned her face around to see a man wearing a mask.

"Grand Duke Gaspard. On behalf of the Inquisition. We Thank you for the invitation." Josephine stepped in and bowed.

"It's a pleasure. Anything to excite the party the better." He replied with intrigue, smiling politely.

"I'd like to personally thank the Grand Duke for inviting us then." Levy said as she half curtsied.

"You can repay me by...accompanying me dear Inquisitor." He replied holding out his arm.

"I'll be delighted Grand Duke." She takes up the offer and linked arms with his.

They started walking together towards the grand door, leading to the ballroom. The rest of the Inquisition following behind. He leans in a little closer so only she can hear.

"To bring the mages into your rank of army was not only a bold move but brilliant. Imagine what the Inquisition can accomplish with the full support of the rightful emperor of Orlais."

"Which one is that again? I keep getting them confused." She teased. He chuckled and patted her hand.

"Of course the handsome one." He grinned. "Are you ready to shock the whole court My lady? There will be stories about this for ages to come."

"I can't imagine anyone have seen anything better than us in their entire lives." She chides, and giggled.

"You are a woman after my own heart." He smiled. "As a friend...perhaps you should know...an Elven woman...Briala, I suspect is trying to disrupt this...negotiations. My people have found some ambassadors all over the fortifications, sabotage seems the least of their crimes."

"Well, we can't have that now can we? As a friend I will investigate this for you." She smiled.

"Please...be as discreet as possible. I detest the game...but if we do not play it well, our enemies will make us the villains. Now, we are keeping the court waiting. Shall we?"

"Of course. We don't want anyone to miss a spectacular show." She smiled politely.

Solas has been watching her the entire time. The way she speaks, her body language and occasional flirting has peaked his interest. Just weeks ago she was just learning, now she looks like she can be one of them.

You continue to surprise me... He thought

The Duke excused himself for a moment to talk to one of his people. Levy took the opportunity to tell all three advisors about what the Duke had told her, just in time for him to walk back and stand beside her. He held up his arm in which she gracefully took it. The grand door opened and they stepped inside the Ballroom.

"Presenting Grand Duke Gaspard de Chalons. Accompanying him… The Lady Inquisitor Lavellan."

Everyone in the ballroom gasps. Empress Celene walked in and nodded at them, and they in turn bowed and curtsied. All the nobles in the room watched both Levy and the Duke as they make their way down the steps. Levy scanned the room with her eyes and found all the females pointing directly at her. She even heard one noble woman whispering to another about her dress being 'Scandalous'.

Well…least the dress actually did some of its purpose… She thought.

Other women complemented with 'it's very different' 'wonder who made it' 'I must have one made!'. She almost made a loud laugh but bit her lower lip from doing so. She looked at the Duke and he was grinning widely. He is enjoying this attention too much.

"Vanquisher of the Rebel Mages of Ferelden. Crusher of the Vile apostates of the Mage Underground!" The announcer continued.

"This guy writes a better story." She heard Varric muttered.

"He is so full of it, that's not how it went." Sera's voice came.

"Champion of the Blessed Andraste Herself!"

Duke Gaspard chuckled and whispered to her. "Did you see their faces? Priceless." She nodded in agreement.

"Accompanying the Inquisitor…Seeker Cassandra Allegra Portia Calogera Filomena—"

"Get on with it!" Cassandra grunted in annoyance.

"…Pentaghast. Fourteenth cousin to the King of Nevara, nine times removed. Hero of Orlais, right hand of the Divine."

Wow…that is one…long name. Levy thought.

"Madame Vivienne, First Enchanter of the Circle of Magi. Enchanter of the Imperial Court, Mistress of the Duke Ghislain."

"Her Ladyship Mai Bhalsych of Korse."

Levy heard Sera snickered. She couldn't help but cough a little to hide her laugh.

"The Lady Inquisitor's Elven Serving Man. Solas."

When she heard his name she felt her heart jump out of her chest. She wanted to turn around and watch him as he walks, but she couldn't. She continues walking with the Duke towards Empress Celene. The announcer kept on with his job, announcing each of the Inquisition's inner circle. After a while he finally got to the three advisors.

"Ser Cullen Rutherford of Honleath. Commander of the forces of the Inquition. Former Knight-Commander of Kirkwall."

If only Ery was here…she would be walking beside him… Levy thought.

"Lady Leliana, nightingale of the imperial court. Veteran of the fifth blight, seneschal of the Inquisition and left hand of the Divine."

"And Lady Josephine Cherette Montilyet of Antiva City Ambassador of the Inquisition."

After what felt like forever, she, the duke and everyone else all stopped right below Celene and another woman beside the Empress.

"Cousin. My dear Sister." The Duke greeted.

"Grand Duke." Celene curtsied. "We are always honored when your presence graces our court."

"Don't waste my time with pleasantries Celene. We have business to conclude."

"We will meet for the negotiations after we have seen to our other guests."

The Duke bowed. He turned his head to Levy.

"Inquisitor." He softly lifts her hand to his lip and gives it a quick kiss and then left. She watches him as he disappears into the crowd.

"Lady Inquisitor, we welcome you to the winter palace." Celene smiles at her, then gestures towards Duke's sister. "Allow us to present our cousin the Grand Duchess of Lydes, without whom this gathering would never have been possible." The Duchess curtsied.

"What an unexpected pleasure. I was not aware the Inquisition would be part of our festivities. We will certainly speak later, Inquisitor." She parted with those words, leaving Celene and Levy.

"Your arrival at court is like a cool wind on a summer's day."

"I am delighted to be here, Your Majesty."

"We have heard much of your exploits, Inquisitor. They have made grand tales for long evenings. How do you find Halamshiral?"

"I have no words to suffice. Halamshiral has many beauties, and I couldn't do them justice."

"Your modesty does you credit, and speaks well for the Inquisition. Feel free to enjoy the pleasures of the Ballroom, Inquisitor. We look forward to watching you dance."

"Thank you, Your Majesty."

Levy curtsied as Celene walks away. She starts making her way up the steps and encounters Leliana.

"Inquisitor, a word, when you have a moment." She said as she walks away.

Levy nodded in agreement. She greets everyone she passes by. Even made a small conversation with some. As she keeps on walking, she notices Josephine talking to one of the noble women and approached them.

"Josephine." She greeted.

"Inquisitor." Josie replied. The woman gasps in excitement.

"Oh! Josephine! is this her? the Inquisitor?!"

"Yes. Inquisitor allow me to introduce Yvette Gabriella Montilyet of Antiva. My younger sister." Yvette giggled and curtsied.

"I...was not aware that Lady Josephine has a sister."

"Yes, she doesn't talk about her family much." Yvette said flatly.

"Yvette." Josie warned. Her sister giggled.

"I will have to come back later, I'd love to hear stories about Josephine when she was younger." Levy giggled along with Yvette.

"Another time!" Yvette mused.

Levy and Josephine shared a 'watch for anything suspicious' look, before she started walking again. At each noble she passes by, she curtsied, bowed, smiled and even had a little conversation. Mostly, they wanted to know what it is like to be a 'savage'. Levy had no choice but to answer politely as she could, no matter how much she wanted to burn them all. The further she walked she notices a crowd gathering in the corner. Cullen. The poor man looked like a sheep trapped by wolves. She let out a soft chuckle and walked over to them.

"It looks like you gathered admirers." She teased.

"Inquisitor!" Cullen greeted. "I...uh….I don't know where these people came from."

"What would Ery say when she sees this." She smirked. Cullen's face turned from bashful to grim.

"Maker...I hope she's alright." He said, rubbing his neck.

"She will be alright Cullen." She reassures him.

He gives her a small smile and she smiled back.

"Enjoy the ball Cullen." She said.

"Inquisitor." He nodded slightly.

She leaves Cullen to his own little circle. She heard the women and men giggle and asking him questions. Poor Cullen had no choice but to try and answer their question. She walks towards the Vestibule after a much agonizing meet and greet with the nobles. She sees Leliana and talked to her.

"Leliana."

"Inquisitor."

"I am so sorry I took so long. There…were some interesting stops I made and conversation." She smiled.

"It's quite alright. What you told us about the Duke pointing the blame to Briala, it is something but we cannot focus on that…yet." They started walking together, as Leliana kept talking. "The Ambassador is up to something, but we cannot know for certain. Empress Celene is fascinated by mysticism—foreseeing the future, speaking with the dead, that sort of rubbish."

"You don't believe in those?" She asked.

"I believe what I see." Leliana replied then continued. "I found she has an "occult advisor." An apostate who charmed the empress and key members of the court as if by magic."

"I take it you know the person?"

"I've had dealings with her in the past. She is ruthless and capable of anything."

"Well…time to investigate."

"I suggest…start at the…Guest Wing." Leliana said. "I'll coordinate with our spies to see if I can find anything better. I will be in the ballroom if you need me."

"Thank you. Also, have your spies found Ery yet? Or seen her around?"

"Last report I got, she was in the kitchen. Now…it seems she is…everywhere serving drinks."

"As long as she's alright and continue to be alright."

"Don't worry we are watching her." Leliana assures her.

They parted ways and the Inquisitor's little hunt for the truth starts.


Solas stood by a window, leaning on a statue with a drink on his hand. He sees Lavellan walking around, opening doors from restricted places, quietly and swiftly. He smiles a little to himself. He could not have imagined in just weeks she has mastered the art of the Game. Two elven women servants walked passed him and glanced a little his way. He smiled at them. They gasp, giggled and whispered to eachother. Solas shook his head, amused. At the corner of his eye, he sees his sister, making her rounds serving drinks. She sees him and slowly made her way towards him. He nodded once she stood infront of him.

"Would you like more wine Ser?" She asked.

"Yes, please." He held out his wine glass. She slowly poured.

"We are getting close. Strange it is…heavily guarded." She whispered to him as she pours.

"Nothing the agents and yourself could handle I hope." He whispered.

"Of course not." She smirked. As she finished pouring she curtsied a little.

Solas nodded his head in acknowledgement. "Be careful." He whispered. She smiled as she starts asking other nobles.

Solas watched his sister pouring drinks at the nobles. He noticed some noble men watching his sister with interest and whispering to eachother. The men nodded at eachother agreeing on something before separating ways. His gaze followed one of the noble as he beckons two Orlesian soldiers and they all left. He caught Lavellan walking out of a room. She smiled at the nobles she passed by. She sees Solas and slowly made her way towards him. He smiled as she neared him.

"I do adore the heady blend of power, intrigue, and sex that permeates these events." The way he said 'sex' made her body shiver a little. She couldn't help but grin.

"Oh? Maybe…when this is all done…we can…have…some fun." She noticed his eyes went dark and filled with a lustful fire for a moment, before returning to his stoic façade.

"That remains to be…. a mystery." He smiled at her, but his eyes tell something else.

"You seem more comfortable with a grand Orlesian ball than I'd have expected." She said.

"I have seen countless such displays in my journeys in the Fade. The powerful have always been the same. Only the costumes change."

"You really need to show me these things one day."

"I did promise to show you."

"So…have you seen anything useful?"

"No. Sadly. I do not have the look of one of the elven servants, or I might well be invisible. I wonder how masked men live their lives without ever seeing that servants have an entire society of their own? If you want to find something useful. I would pay attention to what the servants do."

"I will keep that in mind. Speaking of servants…have you seen Ery?"

"Yes. Actually she just filled my glass." He held his glass up a little. She snatched it and chugged it. Solas watched her, amused. She hands him back the now empty glass.

"Good. Good she is safe."

"Yes."

"Have you encountered any trouble with the nobles?" He chuckled.

"The Orlesian do not quite know what to make of me. I have kept to myself, for fear of giving them some purchase to cling to. The food and drink are excellent."

"Oh! Did you see their display for the frilly cakes? It so much! SO MUCH!"

Solas could tell the alcohol has started to creep up on her. He wonders if she can even keep going. Levy noticed his worried look and frowned.

"I'm fine. As long as I keep…myself in check."

"I'll be here when you need me."

She gives him a slight bow and started walking towards the ballroom. She walks over to Josephine and her sister.

"Hello again."

"Inquisitor." Josephine greeted.

"If I remember…I was supposed to hear a story about how Josie was when she was young."

"Oh! Yes! Has she told you about when she was ten and—"

"Yvette!" Josephine hissed.

"Aww…come on Josie. It couldn't be that bad."

"Oh! When we were climbing the cliffs by the—"

"Stop."

"She once told the Duke of—"

"No. Absolutely not!"

"Hmph! Shestillplayswithherdollcollectionwhennoone'slooking!" Yvette said. Josephine laughed nervously.

"That's…absurd. Absolutely preposterous!" Yvette snickered. Lavellan giggled. Josephine glared at her.

"Sorry Josie." Levy said.

"I have a question. I heard a rumor. Is it true, rebel mages in Redcliffe were performing blood rites and orgies before you stopped them?"

"Where did you hear such nonsense?" Josephine asked, surprised.

"Everyone in Antiva says so! Is it true?"

"Of course. Every word. Especially the parts where everyone was nude." Levy replied. It was either the alcohol talking but she couldn't help it.

"I Knew it!" Yvette beamed. Josephine just groaned.

Lavellan excused herself and started walking towards the balcony. The cool air felt good on her face. She closed her eyes and enjoyed the nice breeze, until a voice made her turn.

"The Inquisitor I presume?"

"Ambassador Briala."

"I see the Duke have told you about me."

"A little. To what do I owe this pleasure?"

"I just thought of introducing myself." Levy smiled at her.

"We both know that's not all Ambassador."

"Indeed. But this is not the time for that. I do hope…we are both in the same sides. Inquisitor."

"I hope so too. Ambassador."

Both women nodded at eachother. Briala left her Levy alone to her own thoughts again. She sighed and shook herself. It was time to find more evidence, gossips and hopefully something to blackmail all three nobles. She opened the door towards the garden and is greeted by Empress Celene's trusted maidens. They relayed their message. The Empress wishes to ally with the Inquisition as soon as Gaspard is defeated. After their conversation she started eavesdropping on some of the nobles' conversation. She mingled around with the nobles, even recruited an agent for the Inquisition. As she walks around, she comes to a stop by a lattice panel. She looks around, making sure no one is looking. She climbs up quietly and swiftly.

Luckily this dress is short in the front and light! Thank you Ery! She thought.

Once ontop she notices blood trail. She looks around and starts walking towards the nearest door and opened it, the grand library. She finds some letters on a desk. She looks to her right and notices a veilfire.

Odd. Wonder what it's doing here… She thought

Levy takes the fire and walks towards the figurines. She lights each up and once everything is lit up, it opened a secret passage. She walks down towards it and explores. She comes back out and follows the blood trail which leads to a locked door. She uses a halla figurine and it opens. Once inside she sees dead bodies, she searches the room and found some letters. As she walks out of the room the first bell rang.

Shit. I should start heading back. She thought.

Levy walks back towards the Grand Library and heads to the vestibule. The second bell rang and quickly walked fast. She is about to open the door towards the ballroom when a voice made her turn around.

"Well, well what have we here? The leader of the new inquisition, fabled Herald of the faith. Delivered from the grasp of the fade by the hand of blessed Andraste herself. What could bring such an exalted creature here to the imperial court, I wonder? Do even you know?"

"Oh…I don't know. Courtly intrigues and all that." She smirked.

"Such intrigue obscure much. But not all. I am Morrigan. Some call me advisor to Empress Celene on matters of the arcane." They started walking inside the ballroom, Morrigan kept talking. "You have been very busy this evening, hunting in every dark corner of the palace. Perhaps you and I hunt the same prey?"

"Hmm…I don't know. Do we?" Morrigan chuckles.

"You are being coy."

"Perhaps. But I'd rather call it…being careful."

"Not unwise, here of all places. Allow me to speak first, then. Recently I found and killed, an unwelcome guest within these very halls. An agent of Tevinter. So I offer you this, Inquisitor. A key found on the Tevinter's body." She hands her a key. "Where it leads, I cannot say. Yet if Celene is in danger, I cannot leave her side long enough to search. You can."

"I may have…a few ideas where this leads to."

"Proceed with caution, Inquisitor. Enemies abound, and not all of them aligned with Tevinter. What comes next will be most exciting."

They both bowed to eachother and separated ways. Levy watched as Morrigan disappears from the crowd.

Well…seems a fight is about to start…I should look for others to join. Levy thought.

Levy walked around looking for three of her companions to join her. She first found Cassandra, then Sera. They followed Levy as she walks towards Solas. Levy explained to them she met and talked with Morrigan, Celene's personal 'arcanist'. She leads them towards the servant's quarters. Cassandra opened up a chest full of their weapons in the room (thanks to Leliana and her spies). When everyone is all set and ready they started their investigation. The deeper they went the more they find things out. They encountered venatori agents and a battle ensues.


Outside the Vestibule. Ery served drinks until she had to refill the urn. Once back into the kitchen, she looked around and swiftly made her way out towards a hidden garden. Upon arriving she is greeted by one of Fen's trusted agent. They spoke in elvhen.

"Revassan." She greeted.

"Ma tarlan." He bowed.

"Ugh…please don't. I am just Erelan here. I am no noble, or a Goddess." She warned.

"Ir abelas…but you will always be what you were and are."

"You're brave. No wonder my brother likes you. You are not afraid to speak your mind."

"I am who I am, Ma tarlan." Again he bowed. Ery rolled her eyes and sighed in defeat.

"Fine. What of Briala's agents? Have you dealt with them?"

"Yes. As ordered we did not kill them, but put them to sleep instead, to avoid suspicions."

"Good." She nodded.

Revassan leads Ery towards a hidden door to a room. Ery looked around and sees elves by the walls sitting upright heads together sleeping.

"I do not understand why we couldn't just kill them. It would be easier." Revassan grumbled.

"There is enough bloodshed already in this area, we do not to add more." Ery replied, with a stern voice.

"Fen'Harel has changed." He whispered.

"Everyone changes ma falon. Maybe not immediately but given time…they will." She replied softly.

"He will save the people. They- we are all waiting for the day that the elves will once again rule this wrong world." He said proudly.

Ery stayed silent and followed him. She is still unsure how she feels about her brother's plan. Destroying the veil leads to a lot of disaster. Whether Fen knows this or not, she doesn't see his vision as the correct way of doing things. He hasn't exactly told her anything either. This is the first he actually even asked for her help to override an eluvian. They stopped by the door, guarded by two sentinels. Revassan opened the door and she held her breath. The magic that came out of the room was intense. She slowly walked inside and sees an active eluvian. Humming and bright.

"You were not kidding when you said the magic here is strong."

"I never lie." Revassan replied bluntly.

"Yes. Yes."

"Can you override it?" Ery turned around and stared at him, eyebrow raised.

"Really? Weren't you just telling me 'you are my goddess' and now you doubt my ability?" Revasssan blushed, and turned his face away.

"I…just get on with it."

Ery smirked and hummed in approval. She turned her attention to the eluvian and held out her hands. She exhaled and closed her eyes. Revassan, now composed watched as her magic began to flow through the eluvian. A pale blue hue oozing out from her and into the eluvian. He is no mage, but he could feel her strong magic intertwining with the magic that held the mirror.

Evanuris. God like powers. He thought.

He watched her in awe. He remembered not long ago Mythal took Erelan under her wing. Taught her everything she knew. In time Erelan's magic came to be like the Evanuris. He was a young lad back then. Bright Red braided hair, shaved at the back, sun kissed skin, piercing emerald eyes and long nose curved perfectly with his rosy lips. Like all the elvhen men, he was tall, broad upper body, toned legs, and stood proud. He wore Andruil's vallaslin proudly. After the veil, he is still him, but much…older. His trance like stare is interrupted by her voice.

"It is done." She whispered, breathing heavily.

"Are you alright?" He asked, concerned.

"I will be." She walks over towards a chair and sat. Her hands massaging her temples.

"Is it ours…now?" He hesitated staring at the inactive eluvian.

"Yes. We can freely use it." She pinched her nose. "Funny. The passcode it uses…I was not expecting that."

"Passcode?" He turned to look at her. "What is it?"

"Fen'Harel Enaste."

"Dreadwolf's favor."

Erelan nodded and slowly stood up. "Tell me. How does one of my sister Andruil's agent…become one of my brother Fen's trusted agent and friend?"

"I saw what Andruil did…and I did not approve any of her actions. After what she did…to Fen'Harel…I sought him out and asked if he could remove the vallaslin and free me."

"And he did." She pointed to his bare face. "I hope…you and I will be friends one day." She smiled. Revassan stared at her, eyes wide.

"I…do not know how to respond to that. Ma tarlan."

"You can start by not calling me that."

"I…will try."

"As long as you try. I should…get back to my 'duties' before they find out they are missing a servant." She starts walking towards the door, but stopped midway and turned around. "Tell Vunora…I said Hi." She smiled and walks away. Leaving a blushing Revassan behind.

Ery felt the eluvian activate and then the feeling disappeared.

Until we meet again falon. She thought.

She sneaks back inside the kitchen and sees a tray full of treats and decides to serve it along with the now full of wine urn.


Lavellan and her party fought off the last venatori agent. She looks around and noticed one running away. She along with her companions ran after him. The venatori didn't get far when a flying dagger hit him right in the head. Erelan and the others stopped and watched as Briala walks over to them.

"Inquisitor. We meet again."

"Ambassador Briala."

"Finally slumming in the servant's quarters with the rest of your people for once?" Briala mocked. Lavellan smiled politely.

"Impressive shot, Ambassador."

"Welcome to the imperial court, friend! This is our diplomacy at work. You cleaned this place out. It will take a month to get all the Tevinter blood off the marble. I came down to save or avenge my missing people. But you've beaten me to it."

"You're welcome." Lavellan couldn't help but grin at her.

"Yes…well…The council of Heralds' Emissary in the courtyard…that's not your work, is it?"

"Nope. He was dead when we arrived."

"Gaspard's doing most likely. I knew he was smuggling in the Chevaliers, but a council emissary? Bringing tevinter assassins into the palace? Those are desperate acts. Gaspard must be planning to strike tonight."

"He can try. But I'll stop him."

"Good. I wish you luck. No, I wish you success. Seems I have misjudged you Inquisitor." Lavellan quirked an eyebrow.

"Oh? How so?"

"I had thought you wouldn't be a worthy ally…but it seems I was wrong. You might just be an ally worth having. Tell me, what could you do with an army of elven spies at your disposal? You should think about it."

"Elven spies. I may have some ideas, but I'll think about it."

"Good. Help me help our people. I know which way the wind is blowing. I'd bet a coin that you'll be part of the peace talks before the night is over. And if you happen to lean a little bit our way? It could prove advantageous to us both. Just a thought."

Briala backed away and with a swift move jumped from the balcony and into the shadows. Lavellan stared at the area for a bit before turning around to her companions.

"Well then…that was interesting."

"More politics and double-dealing. Is there anyone here who is not corrupt?" Cassandra said.

"Pfft...call it what you like. This shite is just a big…uh…bigger shite!" Sera retorted.

"Time to head back to the party, before anyone wonders where we are." Levy said.

They all headed back to the servant's quarters and put their weapons way in the trunk. Cassandra and the others nodded their farewell as they start heading off to their post. Solas stayed a little longer.

"Something wrong Solas?" Levy asked.

"No. I was just thinking about how the servants are treated here."

"Ah. Yes. I am hoping once everything is done here, we could persuade whoever wins this 'game' to have the servants be treated well."

"That is a comforting thought Vhenan. Let's hope whoever the person is…he or she will listen."

He walks closer towards her and gives her forehead a sweet and gentle kiss. Levy blushed and buried her face on his chest. Solas chuckled.

"Can't we just stay here…and just enjoy eachother other's company?" She whispered. Solas wrapped his arms around her.

"I wish we could. But they will notice the Inquisitor and her elven servant man have disappeared."

"Ugh…I hate being popular and a game piece!" She grumbled. Solas lifted her chin up and rests his forehead against hers. Both staring into eachother's eyes.

"You…are doing great Ma Vhenan. I am convinced you have done this before." He teased.

"Oh hush you." She playfully slapped his chest. He gave a small laugh. "I guess we should head back."

Solas nodded and plants a quick but sweet kiss on her lips. He lets her go and starts walking towards his post. Levy stared at him…well mostly his butt.

How does he have such a sexy ass! She thought.

Levy shook her head and started dusting herself clean. Once satisfied, she starts heading off towards the Ballroom. As she opens the door she sees the Duchess approaching her.

"Inquisitor Lavellan. We met briefly, I am Grand Duchess Florianne De Chalons. Welcome to my party." She curtsied.

"I'd like to say I'm surprised, but I am not at all surprised that you want to me now?"

"This is Orlais, Inquisitor. Nothing happens by Accident. I believe tonight you and I are both concerned by the actions of…a certain person. Come, dance with me. Spies will not hear us on the Dance floor."

"After you My lady."

Levy bowed and gestured towards the dance floor. Florianne smiled and started walking down the stars, Levy not far behind. Everyone on the dance floor cleared a path and way. Both women held hands together and took their posture. Once the music started, their conversation starts.

"Have the Dalish gained a sudden passion for politics? What do you know about our Civil war?" Florianne asked as they both danced.

"What do you think I ought to know?" She asked.

"My brother and my dear cousin have been at each other's throats for too long."

As Florianne starts telling Levy about the civil war far ahead, Solas walks in the Ballroom and sees Levy dancing with the duchess. He stayed far off the corner to watch Levy dance with the Duchess. He hears Josephine, Cullen and Leliana not far from his left side.

"Maker!" Josephine gasps. "She is dancing with the Duchess!"

"It seems the dance lessons wasn't a waste at all then." Leliana said.

"It seems they're doing more than dance. Florianne is telling her something, but I'm not sure what." Cullen said.

"I could tell you Commander, but I think it would be best for the Inquisitor to tell us after their dance." Leliana said.

Solas too is wondering but couldn't help but feel proud of her. His attention is interrupted when a voice up ahead made him look away.

"Forgive me Messere, but I must get to work." Ery said, trying to pull herself away from a noble man's grasp.

"You are a slave here! You will do what I say! And I say I will take you away here." The noble spat.

Solas was about to walk over when suddenly Cullen swiftly walked towards them. Once Cullen arrived he pulled Ery towards him, making her stumble on his body. The noble struggled to keep his footing, but with the help of his servant he composed himself.

"Forgive the intrusion but she belongs to the Inquisition." Cullen said, glaring at the man.

"The Inquisitions? I can pay you good money for her! How about it?!" The noble man boasted.

"Unfortunately she is not for sale." Cullen replied with a stern voice.

"She is a slave of the inquisitions; I can ask someone else to purchase her."

The noble man along with this servant walked away. Ery sighed in relief, Cullen glaring at the man until he disappeared from sight.

"Thank you…Cullen." She whispered, bowing her head.

"Are you alright?" He whispered back.

"Yes. Thanks to you."

Cullen nodded and lets her go. Ery curtsied and started making her rounds like nothing happened. Cullen walks back towards Josephine and Leliana, who were watching the whole scene. Leliana dispatched one of her agent and see to it that the noble will not do any more harm. Solas' attention went back to Levy when the people clapped as the dance finished. Ery was lucky that everyone was paying more attention to the Inquisitor dancing. Levy and Florianne parted ways. Josephine was the first to greet Levy.

"You'll be the talk of the court for months. We should take you dancing more often." Levy groaned.

"Please…don't. I thought I was about to mess everything up by stepping on her foot!"

"Lucky you didn't." Josephine giggled.

"Dancing with the Duchess Florianne? I never thought I'd see the day." Leliana said, walking up to them.

"More importantly, what happened in the servants' quarters? I heard there was a fighting." Cullen said.

"Right to business already Commander?" Levy teased.

"I hope you have good news. It appears the peace talks are crumbling."

In the corner Solas watch as the advisors and Levy explained what happened at the quarters. When a voice made him look infront of him.

"Can't keep your eyes off your Vhenan?" Ery teased.

"Are you alright?" He asked.

"I'm fine. Want to know what happened to the…mirror?"

"What did you find?" Solas asked.

She pours more wine in his cup. Head down low.

"The magic was strong, but I disrupted. Funny, the password used...was very interesting. Fen'Harel Enaste."

Dreadwolf's favor... He thought.

"Anything else?" He asked, taking a sip of his wine.

Ery shakes her head. He nodded his thanks as she bowed and left Solas to his own thoughts. The night went on as Levy finds more evidence against Gaspard, Briala and now Empress Celene. She took the same people with her to investigate. It wouldn't be long until the confrontation of all three powerful people of Orlais.


In the kitchen, Ery and two other servants were preparing their trays of more pastries and wine in their urn. The other servants finished before Ery and swiftly left without a word. Ery heard the door creak open, thinking another servant walked in she thought nothing of it. She was about to turn to look when suddenly strong arm wrapped around her and a cloth covering her nose and mouth. Then everything went dark.

Ery groaned and opened her eyes. She tried to move her body and found her wrist and ankles were tied up. She found herself wearing only her smalls and on a bed. Looking around with only a candle as the source of light, the room has a marquee pearl white dresser, a walk in closet, and a golden méridienne sofa. She hears voices outside but could not make out the words. She tried using her powers but failed. She didn't understand why. The door opened and three men, two of them masked and one templar walked in.

"Look whose awake." The man in the middle grinned. Ery did her best to glare and growl at him. "Tsk. Tsk. Do you know how hard it was to avoid being unnoticed by your…inquisitions spies? That nightingale is one very clever spymaster. Lucky for me, I have a templar at my disposal." He gestured toward the man guarding the door. "He even helped me out on 'calming' your magic. Mage." He sneers.

Ery's eyes went wide in shock. That explained why she couldn't use her powers. It didn't help that she is still recovering from overriding the eluvian now a templar is holding her magic at bay. The man waved the other man to guard outside while the templar stays inside in case her power returns. He slowly walked over to her and traced her body with his finger as he inches his way to her face. Ery turned her head away once his face was close.

Fenedhis! This is not the time to be scared! Think of a plan! She yelled in her mind.

The man cupped her chin and aggressively turned her head to face his. His masked face close enough for her to hear him breath. She gasps and closed her eyes. She did not want to look at him. Irritated, he slapped her face so hard blood spurted out from her nose. He climbed ontop of her and took his mask off. Again, he grabbed her chin and made her look at him. Ery couldn't help but stare at the man. He seemed to be in his late-forties, greasy dark hair, cream colored skin and dark green eyes. He leaned in on her ears and whispered.

"You will look at me while I have my fun with you over…and over…and over until there is nothing left of you."

He licks her ear, and she bit her lip to stop any sounds that comes out from her. He slowly licks down to her neck, pinning her tied wrists down. Ery shut her eyes tight.

Someone…please help! Brother! Cullen! Her mind pleaded.

He starts unbinding her breast wrap. Once done, he cups one breast and started licking on the other. Ery bit her lip hard, drawing blood.

Someone please! Make him stop! Someone… She thought. Then she remembers Cole. A spirit.

COLE! She screamed in her mind.

Back with Levy and the others, she has finally gathered enough evidence and blackmails against the three powerful people and also the Duchess. Levy gathered up everyone, the advisors and the companions.

"Alright everyone knows the plan?" She said.

"Yes." They all replied in unison.

"Good. Now…we wait."

As if on cue Empress Celene walked out from the negotiation room along with Gaspard. Levy started walking towards them as soon as she saw the Duchess making her way towards Celene. Cullen who was watching and waiting for orders almost jumped when Cole suddenly popped up infront of him.

"Maker! Cole! You—"He couldn't finish when Cole interrupted him.

"Bound. Helpless. Screaming. Someone make him stop. Please help! Blood. Pain. So much hurt."

"What is this thing mumbling about?" Vivienne said.

"Weirdo being a weirdo." Sera muttered.

"Cole. Who's hurting?" Solas asked.

"Make him stop. Please stop. No. I don't want this. This isn't what-" Cole gasps. "Ery!" With that he disappeared.

Cullen, Sera, Solas and Vivienne all looked at eachother. They turned towards the others who were also listening.

"Commander go. We will take care of this. I will explain to the Inquisitor where all of you went." Leliana said.

"Hey if the pretty lady is in trouble I am coming along too." Bull said, putting his axe on his shoulder. "Let's go save your woman Commander."

No one had to say that twice. Cullen along with Solas, Bull, Vivienne and Sera all went to look for Ery.

In the room, Ery was now left naked, cuts and bruises all over her body, arms and legs. The man licked his dagger clean.

"Your blood taste…really sweet. I think you're the first elf whose blood taste…really…good." He licked his lips.

Ery breathed heavily. All the beatings she took and the cuts he did on her body left her exhausted. This man loves to torture his slaves before raping them. She looked over at the templar who has been watching silently and unmoving. Her attention turned back to the man who is now naked infront of her. He climbs on top of her and positions himself right on her opening. He points the tip of the knife on her abdomen and starts carving on her skin.

"Scream for me." He commanded.

Ery glared and spit at him. He grunted in annoyance and dug the knife deeper. This time she could not help but scream at the top of her lungs. He laughed, enjoying the pain he is giving her.

"I will tear you up inside and out. You will be mine. My possession. Mine." He said.

Tears started flowing from her eyes. The tears she has been holding since this started. For the first time she felt helpless, fear and vulnerable.

"Please…stop." She pleaded voice cracking.

"But we are having so much fun. Why should I stop when we are about to get to the good part!" He said gleefully.

"No. Please. Don't." She shook her head.

"Are…you…by chance known no man's touch?"

Ery didn't answer. He took that as a confirmation. He laughed even more loudly.

"Maker! This is my lucky day! I will enjoy this even more!" He threw away the dagger on the floor and positioned himself on her opening. "I will devour you." He growled.

"Please! Don't! I beg you!" She screamed.

He was about to ram himself in when a loud thud made him and Ery look at the door. The templar fell on the floor blood gushing out from his slit throat. Cole.

"You will not harm her!" Cole yelled as he pushed the man down.

"Mercy!" He yelled.

"No. You do not deserve it!"

Cole slit his throat. Blinded by rage, Cole did not stop and kept slashing the man. Arms, limbs, neck, torso, legs and feet. He did not stop until Ery screamed.

"COLE! STOP!"

Cole suddenly snapped out of his trance and appeared right next to her unbinding her. He quickly gave her his jacket.

"Thank you…" She whispered.

"I am sorry. Was I late…?" He asked looking disappointed. Ery shakes her head and smiled at him.

"You did fine Cole. You…almost became not you for a moment."

"Yes. I felt rage. I was angry at him. At me. I was late. You are hurt. You are in pain."

"No. You saved me. Thank you."

They both hear footsteps running towards the door then Cullen's voice.

"Ery!"

Cullen kicked open the door then stood still, shocked at the scene he sees. Behind him Bull, Sera, Solas, and Vivienne are seen staring at the room. The body of the templar in his own pool of blood. Blood splatters everywhere, pieces of body parts all scattered on the other side of the room. Solas, using his fire magic lit up the room showing more than meets the eyes. Cole sitting beside a bloodied and bruised Ery. Everyone else gasps.

"My dear…" Vivienne whispered.

"Andraste's ass…what did he do to you." Sera said and then walked over to the dismembered body and shot three arrows on his head. "PISS OFF!" She yells.

"My question is…who did the blood bath part." Bull said looking around and kicking some of the body parts.

"I did." Cole answered. "He was hurting her. He had to die." He said gravely.

"Cole. Let the inquisitor know that she is safe now. You saved her." Solas said, approaching them.

"Yes. She is worried too. She knows Ery is missing. I will tell her."

Cole disappears. Solas sits next to Ery and starts healing what he could heal. Ery pulled the jacket Cole gave her close to her. Sera stood next to her.

"Iron Bull, Madame Vivienne think you two can at least clean off the blood and bodies?" Solas asked as he heals Ery.

"Of course." With one swift gesture Vivienne effortlessly cleaned off the blood splatters on the walls and floor. "Not all will be cleaned, but it'll have to do." She said.

Using a blanket Bull picked up the dismembered body and puts it in along with the dead templar's body.

"Where should I throw these dead guys?"

"Bull…throw it out from the balcony. Please."

"I don't think that is a good idea my dear." Vivienne said.

"Trust me." Ery replied sternly.

"Okay. I trust you beautiful."

Bull walks over to the balcony and throws the bloody blanket up. With one hand held up, Ery shoots out fire magic and disintegrates everything. Bull whistled.

"Normally I would complain about magic. But this time I am happy to see you using magic on those bastards." Sera said.

Solas finished healing what he could. He knew he cannot heal the trauma that this event leaves her.

"Thank you." She said. He nodded.

Cullen who had been silent for a while started walking towards her.

"Ery. Are you alright?"

"I'll be fine." She gives him a weak smile.

"I think…we should give you two…some alone time." Bull said, ushering everyone to leave for a moment. He closes door, as Solas' magic held it close, since the lock broke from Cullen's kick.

"If…you don't want to…talk about it we don't have to." He said tucking in a strand hair. She flinched a little from his touch. He noticed and abruptly pulled his hand away. "I'm sorry. I didn't…mean to scare you."

"No…no. I…Cullen…"

She struggled to find her words. Another man had touched her body and was about to break her. Cullen looks down and held his hands together to keep them at bay. The woman he loves almost got raped under his nose. He couldn't help but feel guilty that he couldn't protect her. He couldn't get to her in time. Ery stared at Cullen contemplating. She loves this man more than life itself and yet she flinched just because of his touch. His touch that she craves more than anything right now.

"Cullen hold me." She blurted out. Cullen jerked his head towards her and stared at her, eyes wide. "Please. I…need…-"

Cullen didn't need her to keep going and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close. Ery's body stiffened. Cullen noticed and loosened his hold.

"No! Please…don't…stop. Please hold me." She wrapped her arms around his neck, Cole's jacket falling off her.

Cullen did as he is told and embraced her tightly. As minutes ticked by eventually Ery calmed down and melted into his embrace.

"I don't know what I can do to help you get through this…but know I will always be there for you. No matter what." Cullen whispered. Ery nodded as tears starts pouring down. "I love you Ery. I will never let any harm come to you again."

Ery slowly pulled away from him, still in eachother's embrace. She stares at him.

"Cullen…do you…really mean it? You love me?"

"Of course. I've never felt anything like this before…I do love you Erelan. I love you." He kisses her forehead.

"Ar lath ma Vhenan. Bellanaris." She responds.

"Uhm…you may have to translate that." He chuckles. Ery blushed.

"Right. I should teach you the elvhen language one day."

"I would…like that."

"Great! It means 'I love you, my heart. Eternally." She plants a sweet kiss on his lips.

"A- aer- arrr." Cullen tries his best but failed. Ery giggled and hissed at the pain on her abdomen. Solas missed that part.

It just dawned on both of them she is naked infront of him. Cullen turned crimson red, Ery also turned crimson. Cullen swiftly took his jacket off and wrapped it around her.

"Thank you."

A soft knock came from the door and Solas opened the door. Vivienne swiftly walked in.

"Now my dear we need to do something about your clothing."

"But…I have no other clothing."

"Nonsense. This is a palace full of nobles. I think we can find an outfit or two. Commander if you could be so kind to carry our dear Erelan."

"Oh…uh yes."

"I can walk fine." Ery retorted.

Cullen gets off the bed holding his hand out for Ery to grab. She takes his hand and once her feet touched the ground she stumbles. Cullen caught her and sweeps her off her feet, carrying her bridal style.

"Oh…so smooth Commander." Bull grinned.

Cullen blushed. Erelan wrapped the jacket around herself tighter. Luckily Cullen is one tall and broad man that the jacket covered her almost entirely.

"Now. While Cullen, Ery and I pick out an outfit, you three should head back to the Inquisitor."

"Take care of her Cully!" Sera said.

"I leave her in your care Commander." Solas said looking at his sister.

"Of course." Cullen replied.


Bull, Sera and Solas walked back towards the Ballroom. Vivienne, Cullen and Ery heads towards another room. Once they return to the Ballroom, they see the Duchess being dragged out of the room, Celene, Gaspard, Briala and Inquisitor all standing together with Celene giving a speech about peace and working together. Everyone in the crowd cheered as Lavellan gives the final word. Once everything was done, they all returned to dancing and chatting. Solas sees Lavellan walking out towards the balcony and starts making his way. As he gets closer he stepped back a little to let a woman walk pass him.

"I take it that was…Morrigan?" He asks standing beside her.

"Yes. Celene has graciously sent her for help in whatever we need." She leans on him. "I heard what happened to Ery. Is she alright?"

"I healed what I could…but…I believe her spirit has been…broken. It will take time…for her to heal from such an event." He replies wrapping an arm around her.

"She has Cullen. I believe he will help her get through it."

"Let's hope it is enough."

"It will be. Have you seen the way he looks at her? He cannot take his eyes off her." He chuckles.

"Yes."

A loud gasps and murmur made both of them turn and peek inside the Ballroom. Right on the dancefloor is Cullen dancing with…Erelan. Levy and Solas looked at eachother and walked over towards the others. All the women whispered at eachother as they watch the Commander of the Inquisition forces dances with a beautiful woman. Erelan wore a teal satin dress. Corset and peplums are made from an iridescent tiny scale patterned brocade. Stacked silver vine lace over a floral metallic lace trimming her neckline and corset. Adorned with crystals and pearls throughout the lace. Chains decorated with pearls and shards of silver drape over the shoulders and the front of her skirt. White fox mask over her face and a white rose crown over her head, barely hiding her ears.

"Well…least now they won't harass the commander." Levy whispers.

Solas chuckles and pulls Levy back towards the balcony. He spins her around and dipped her. Levy gasps in surprise and stared at Solas.

"Dance with me?" He asks.

"Of course."

He smiled and pulls her up. As another music starts Solas and Levy danced in the balcony. Cullen and Ery danced in the ballroom. The beginning may have been chaotic and even life changing but the end of the night, everything became perfect. The inquisition will be the talk for ages to come. The inquisitor saving the empire, the Commander dancing with a beautiful mystery woman.

Author's notes:

PART TWO DONE! Whole chapter DOOONE!

My mind…went…over of what I wanted…but hoped you guys liked it!

Reviews are appreciated!

THANKS EVERYONE! UNTIL NEXT TIME!

Next Chapter:

Inquisitor and companions meets up with Hawke and the warden!

Ery is having trouble moving on! Cullen doing his best to help her!