It had been two years and Thedas was enjoying some well-earned peace. In that time the Inquisition had grown and it spread across all of Thedas and while some recognise them as heroes many people felt uneasy of the growing power.

For Maxwell many things have changed for him in the guard. Most of their friends had gone their separate ways doing what they did best in different parts of Thedas. Leliana had been made Divine and was now known as Divine Victoria and Theron had taken her place as spymaster.

Daylen had also finally managed to find a cure for the Blight and cured the stick on several people. Mostly those who had left the Grey Wardens like King Alistair, Queen Elissa and Bann Kallian. Theron in fact has also been cured, but he still acted as a liaison for the Grey Wardens and help them where he can. Of course today they were making their way back to the Winter Palace to discuss the growing power of the Inquisition. Maxwell had spent most of his days doing paperwork at Skyhold while the rest of the guard acted as his proxy on the field.

They were on horseback, all them, and were passing through the Inquisition soldiers that had been allowed to enter with them.

"Another parade, another bloody negotiation," Cullen grumbled.

"Smiles, everyone. We must be careful how we present ourselves," said Josephine keeping her voice light and cheerful.

"Why did Divine Victoria call the Exalted Council? She's kept Orlais from bothering us for the last two years."

"At increasing political cost, yes. She has done all she can, but the Exalted Council has become necessary. Orlais would control us. And based on their many marriage proposals, they have specific plans for you."

Cullen just simply groaned, he hadn't forgotten the last time he had been in the Winter Palace and found himself surrounded by several noblewomen who practically ambushed him the moment he entered.

Josephine continued. "Our real concern is Ferelden. They would see us disbanded entirely."

As they walked past Maxwell saw the representatives of both countries, Duke Cyril and Arl Teagan. Both of them had strong voices in their respective countries and were well-respected having them both here did not bode well.


Maxwell and his guard entered into the council chambers where the Exalted Council was to deliberate. He then felt a slight twinge of pain and looked down at his hand and saw the mark had fled. It had been good doing that for quite some time now, even despite the Bleach been closed.

He had been keeping it secret and only the guard knew about this. Ellana did her best to stabilise it, but she was no Solas.

"It's getting worse," said Ellana noticing the mark.

"I know," said Maxwell grimly.

"Is there nothing you can do?" Adaar asked.

Ellana shook her head. "I'm just amazed that I've been able to keep at bay for this long, but I fear that there is nothing more I can do."

"Let's just deal with the Exalted Council," said Maxwell. "We can worry about my ailment later."

A familiar voice greeted him. "Inquisitor. It has been too long. I hope the years have been kind to you and the guard."

Maxwell turned slowly and smiled. "How have you been, Mother Giselle?"

"I spent last summer in Emprise du Lion, distributing food sent from the Exalted Plains. The Dales are finally recovering."

"Since Corpyheus fell, I imagine you have spent more time travelling than we have," said Erdic smiling.

"It keeps me out of trouble, my lord," she smiled back. "I should mention that your forces as Suledin Keep were of great help. Please give my compliments to Baron Desjardins." Mother Giselle smiled. "Divine Victoria asked me to greet you on her behalf. She is currently attending to the Ferelden ambassador's concerns."

Leliana was likely the only one present who could alleviate Teagan's concerns. With that being said Theron presents probably gave Ferelden a moment of pause since he was their hero. Though chances were he saw them nothing more than as an Orlesian Divine and a Dalish spy.

"How do you think Divine Victoria has done these past two years?" Ellana asked.

"It is hardly for me to say, Inquisitor."

"With respect, that's never stopped you before, Mother Giselle," Maxwell smiled.

"Victoria has proven adept at winning allies with both her intelligence and her faith. It is a blessing in these trying times. We are lucky to have her."

"I'll speak to Divine Victoria," Maxwell assured.

"I believe she would appreciate that, Your Worship." Mother Giselle gave a small bow. "The Divine sees the good that you can do, and have done. Duke Cyril will wish to greet you on behalf of Orlais. I believe he is currently speaking with the Tevinter ambassador. Many of your friends have returned as well. I hope you have a chance to speak with them before the Exalted Council begins."

"The Imperium sent an ambassador?" Ellana blinked.

"In a manner of speaking, my lady. Dorian Pavus has been declared the Tevinter ambassador. It will be good to see him again. I owe him my apology." She then turned to Maxwell. "I allowed my distrust of Tevinter to cloud my judgment. I am glad you saw more clearly than I did."

Adaar blinked. "You're going to apologise? To Dorian?"

Mother Giselle smiled. "I have little patience for those who cannot admit they were wrong, my lady. Myself included." She shrugged. "I will have to may my apology somewhere public. He will want an audience for his reaction."

Maxwell simply shook his head. "Who has returned for the Exalted Council?"

"Your dwarven friend, Master Tethras, for one. I understand he has spent much of the last couple years in Kirkwall. I believe Sir Blackwall has returned as well…" She furrowed a brow. "Although he now uses the name Thom Rainier. Enjoy time with them while you can, Your Worship. I doubt you will have the chance once the Exalted Council is underway." She started to walk away, and then stopped and looked to Maxwell. "Your Worship, a final question, if I may. This Exalted Council…" She clasped her hands in front of her. "Ferelden would have the Inquisition disbanded. Orlais sees its power as another feather in a chevalier's helmet. What do you wish to do with the Inquisition?"

"You once told me about the first Inquisition that took place eight hundred years ago. You said that when their battle was over, that the Inquisition's soldiers sheet their swords and went home. If our battle is truly over… perhaps it's time for us to do the same."

Mother Giselle nodded as if she didn't expect anything else. "Thank you. Maker watch over you and the guard, Inquisitor. I will not keep you any longer."


No sooner did they walk into the grounds than they saw Varric arguing with someone. The man was frowning down at the dwarf. "The prince of Starkhaven wrote to you again."

Varric gave a dismissive shrug. "Of course he did. Just put that one in the pile with letters from the Merchants Guild."

"And the captain of the city guard had a very…" The man folded his arms. "Colourful message for me to deliver to you as well."

"Andraste's ass, am I ever glad to see you!" said Varric when he saw them.

Erdic chuckled. "And the Inquisitor and his guard comes to the rescue once again."

The man sniffed. "Is that what you call it?"

Varric gestured at him. "This is Bran Cavin. Until recently, he was the viscount…"

"Provisional viscount."

"…of Kirkwall."

"So why is he here with messengers from the Merchant Guild?" Erdic frowned.

"I have resumed my post as seneschal now that Master Tethras has been elected viscount," Bran explained.

All their mouths fell wide open.

"You're the viscount of Kirkwall now?" Erdic stared.

Bran glanced at them to Varric. "Well, it seems that you have a great deal to discuss. Why don't I just leave you to it?"

"So…" Varric shrugged. "It turns out, you fund enough reconstruction efforts in a city-state, the nobles give you the worst job they can think of."

"That's fantastic," Maxwell smiled. "You'll make an excellent viscount."

Varric shrugged. "I think the nobility figured, after Dumar and Perrin, 'What's the worst that could happen if we put the dwarf in charge?' They voted me in because I got the harbour and businesses up and running again. They want shit fixed, and I can do that." He grinned. "Anyway, I was hoping I'd catch you before the summit got underway. I got you a sort of presents for all of you." He handed Maxwell a scroll. "It's official recognition of your title and holdings in Kirkwall. Congratulations! You're a comte now."

Before he could reply, Bran came rushing back over. "You can't actually do that without—"

"Too late! Already did it!" Varric threw up his hands, and then turned back to Maxwell. "You should stop by Hightown some time to see your estate. It's pretty nice. For Kirkwall, anyway."

"Proper disposition of empty estates is supposed to—"

Varric ignored him and turned to Ellana. "I also drafted an alliance with the new elf-led City Council of Wycome, so Clan Lavellan has some political muscle to flex now."

"That needs to be reviewed by—"

Varric once again ignored him and then turned to Adaar. "Your mercenary company, the Valo-Kas? They work for Krikwall now. I just know my guard-captain will love Shokrakar."

"Guard-Captain Aveline has been to my office in eleven times in the last week to complain."

Varric pretended he wasn't there and faced Erdic. "I managed to get you a seat in the Merchant Guild. Don't thank me. I was just going to give you mine, but they got angry about it."

"This is highly irregular. You know they've all been complaints from—"

Varric clearly had enough and faced him. "You were leaving us to talk, remember?"

Bran sighed and walked away again to continue his poor job of pretending he wasn't listening.

"What are you up to?" Maxwell narrowed his eyes at him. "I feel like I should be suspicious."

"Look, it's really not that big a deal. Oh, that reminds me…" He removed something from his belt pouch and handed it to him. "It's the key to the city."

Bran rushed over to them. "You can't give that away without approval from the council and a special ceremony. It—"

"It's just symbolic anyway."

"It controls one of the giant chain nets in the harbor."

"Really? That…" Varric's smile actually managed to get broader. "Is so much better than I thought."

Erdic stared at the key. "This operates those giant chains?" He couldn't help himself. "Can I try it?"

"No!" Bran immediately protested.

Varric ignored him. "I don't know how this council thing is going to end for the Inquisition. But whatever gets decided, you've got a place lined up in Kirkwall if you want it and the guard have jobs waiting. Also…" He gestured at the key. "Control of the harbor, I guess." He shook hands with every single one of them. "Anyway, you should meet with the diplomats. We'll get in a game of Wicked Grace before I go back, though, right?"

"I wouldn't miss it."

"Don't bet any public buildings this time." Bran walked away.


Evelyn found Cullen throwing a ball for a mabari, she was still acting as a liaison for the mages and had already gained the rank is First Enchanter. He threw the ball again, and the dog caught it in the air. Cullen shook his head in mock exasperation. "You there! You're to dodge, not catch. If that ball were a fireball, you'd be dead."

The dog barked, sounding for all the world as if it were arguing with him.

"You…" Evelyn walked over to them. "Found a dog?"

"They don't breed mabari in Orlais. The merchant said he was abandoned. Perhaps his owners tired of the novelty?"

Evelyn held out a hand, and the dog immediately moved his head under it to get scratched. "Tired of you? With that positive attitude and fetching ability?"

"He's not supposed to fetch it…"

She shook her head in amusement. "I don't understand how this works."

Cullen smiled. "Another Ferelden trapped at the Winter Palace—I couldn't leave him to that fate. Besides, I think he likes me." The dog rolled over onto his back, permitting his belly to be rubbed.

"I never expected you to make friends at a political council," she joked. "How times have changed."

He laughed. "So they have." He rubbed the dogs ears. "The Inquisition will change after this. I'm not yet sure what that will mean. Still, I've found certainty in my life now; the council won't change that." He stood up. For a moment, they both stood there quietly, watching the dog roll happily. Then he turned to her. "Marry me."

The mabari barked. Evelyn felt her heart attempt to jump out of her chest. She… Had he just? "What?"

"I mean, will you…" He sighed. "I had a plan, and…" He rubbed the back of his neck. "And there wasn't a dog. But you were…" He shook his head. "It doesn't matter. I've thought of little else, and I don't need a plan. Only to know if you would…"

"I would." She held out her hand. "Cullen, I will."

"You will." He caught her hand, and pulled her to him. He rested his forehead against hers. The dog barked and jumped around them happily.

"People will notice the Inquisitor's sister marrying his commander in the middle of the Exalted Council."

"It won't go over well. But we know a few people who can keep things…" He kissed her. "Secret."


Mother Giselle was absolutely overjoyed when they found her and told her their intention. She even managed to procure Evelyn a dress. She couldn't remember the last time she'd worn one. Maxwell was also with them, taking their father's place and he couldn't be more happier.

"Just now…" Cullen held her hands in his. "Everything feels like it was worth fighting for."

"It was."

"This is…"

"This is the part where you make a promise." Mother Giselle drew their attention back to the ceremony.

"Oh. Right." Cullen cleared his throat. "I swear unto the Maker and the Holy Andraste to love this woman the rest of my days."

She said her own vows, and then lifted her head as he kissed her. Time went away.


After the wedding Maxwell found Blackwall flinging daggers at a target. He stopped when he saw him, and went to collect the knives. "Fashionably late! I thought you weren't going to show."

"I'm late, and you decided to make the Winter Palace rubble?"

"Eh. Never liked it anyway. To fancy." He gestured for him to join him on a bench. "So, tell me everything that happened while I was away."


"And after the betrayal, and what I put those men through, my sorries were worth about as much as shit."

"How many people hit you?" he enquired.

"I lost count at twelve. But I can take a punch." He sighed. "They needed to know there's a way to come back from anything. And I wanted to help them, if I could. I thought going up there on the gallows was difficult. This was worse. A hundred times worse. Anyway…" He turned back towards her. "It's nice to be back, though I'm not sure what to think of this council." He stood, and went back to where the daggers were sitting. "No matter what, you know you can always count on my sword arm and my friendship."

"If that's your sword arm, I think I'll be better off without it," Maxwell smirked.

He narrowed his eyes. "Think you can do better?"


"Ahh!"

Maxwell immediately whirled and called up a barrier. There was nothing behind her. He and smiled at Cassandra. "Is everything all right?"

"Yes! Well. I…" Cassandra began nervously picking at her fingers. "Wanted to speak with you. And now you're here."

Seeing Cassandra nervous was nerve wracking and he knew very well that it would never end well. "Should I leave and come back later so you can try again?"

Cassandra narrowed her eyes. "Always with clever suggestions." Cassandra turned one way, then the other, and then looked back at Maxwell. "Maybe you should sit."

"I can stand," said Maxwell giving Cassandra a concerned look.

"Maybe I should sit." Cassandra all but fell back onto the stairs. Maxwell shrugged, and sat beside her. "The last three years have been a joy. I cannot have asked for more love or a better friend. But to take such drastic steps? Despite all the consequences, or how it would appear? I feel what it might do to us. Do you not feel the same?"

Maxwell blinked. "Maybe I should leave and come back. I think I missed the beginning."

Cassandra groaned. "I'm talking about marriage!"

Maxwell quickly turned and stared at her. "Marriage?"

"Yes, marriage! You're here to propose, are you not?" Maxwell now wished he was anywhere but here and judging by the pink spots on Cassandra's face she wished it to. "You're not proposing. To anyone." She stood and started to pace, clenching her fists. "I am going to kill Varric. Why do I believe everything he says? Why?"

"He said I was going to propose?"

"He… mentioned a proposal," Cassandra admitted. "I suppose I filled in the blanks. Or he did this on purpose. That dwarf gets entirely too much joy from my discomfort."

"He wasn't far off long," said Maxwell. "It's just the wrong Trevelyan, my sister eloped with Cullen."

Cassandra turned around, her eyes wide. "She did? Here in the palace?" She put her hands over her mouth and actually made a squealing noise. "Oh. The garden would be perfect for a wedding."

"Now that you brought it up, maybe we should get married," said Maxwell standing up.

Cassandra looked at him. "Perhaps one day. It will be truly a romantic proposal, and I will act very surprised. What comes next will not be easy for either of us—but you do not have to fight for me. I am not going anywhere, not even if the Maker himself tries to stop me. Believe that. That is all I meant to say."


"Adaar! I'm glad you're here." Krem waved her over. "Listen, I need you to keep the chief distracted while we sneak this dragon skull through the room behind him."

"I'm looking forward to seeing where this goes," she said.

"It's for his birthday."

"I'll see what I can do, Krem." She wouldn't miss this for anything.

"All right, here he comes. Just keep him talking. He loves talking."

She waved Iron Bull over to the bar, choosing the seat that would leave him with his back to the room. "Kadan! Made time for a drink?"

"You know, I've been asking around about new equipment for…us," Adaar began seductively. "There's a merchant in Val Royeaux who sells these sliver rods with little cuffs that work like stocks."

Iron Bull smiled. "I prefer rope work myself. Knots are easier to adjust—and more intimate. But of its stocks you want, you're worth it. Maybe the motion will throw in some clamps, too!"

Behind him, the Chargers were shoving the dragon skull.

"Do you think news of the Exalted Council could affect the lyrium shipments from Orzammar?" Adaar enquired.

"Uh…" He shrugged. "Maybe?" Well, they'd managed to get it moved a bit further. She hoped Rocky was going to be okay.

"It's fascinating to see the remnants of Ciriane culture here. Most of it was deliberately erased during Orlesian unification, under the reign of Maferath's son Isorath."

"Uh-huh."

"Did you know that Ferelden has its own names for Lords? The country is divided into Teyrnirs, governed by Teyrns. Inside those are cities and arlings, ruled by arls. And then there's the Bannorn. It's a large area of countryside, ruled by multiple banns."

"Good to know." Dalish… needed to work on her force magic. Maybe she could take some lessons from Ellana.

She tried desperately to come up with something else, but words failed her. "I'm sorry, I can't do this…"

"Sure you can!" said Iron Bull with a slight smirk. "They must have that thing almost across the room by now, right?"

She ran a hand down her face. Of course he knew.

"Ben-Hassrath, remember?"

"Surprise! Happy birthday, Chief!" Krem cried.

He actually managed to look surprised. "Oh, you guys. You got me."


Erdic found Sera was cackling at the recent show. "Here's you! And everyone! Glad to be back, all stuffed together. With the pressure full on. Again." Sera spread her hands. "Don't worry, 'Guardian of Watzisname.' I came prepared. I know what everyone needs." She held up a pie. "Just like best times."

Everyone might not need it. But he rather thought he did.

Erdic licked the last of the whipped cream off his beard. "I expected a roof."

"It's early. Anyway, that was a good run. It's all been a good run. I needed that, and I need…" Sera's face fell. "You know it's ending, right? We can say it won't, but nobs in places like this? All they do is end things. They'll try a leash…" Sera put her hands on the table. "Or worse. But maybe you aren't ready to quit just because some 'Lord Piddlebits' is scared of us?"

"The Inquisition's still needed. No one can question that."

"That's the problem. When people need us, they don't need them." Sera fiddled with her drink. "Point is, sooner or sooner, all this changes. And you've helped me understand…" Sera met his eyes as others joined them at the table. A few of the faces he vaguely recognised. "Too much. So it's my turn to help you. See, I have these friends. And all of them were the wrong sort of whatever. Their place changed, or it never was. So together, we made an 'us.' Everyone needs an 'us'. And when the world is done saying no and calls you the wrong sort of whatever, maybe we can be that 'us' for you?" Sera grinned. "What do you think, Inquisitor? Want to run some rooftops as a Jenny?"

Erdic smirked. "Well, all I have to say is call me 'Red frigging Jenny'."

"Way too confusing." One of the newcomers said. "You'll get a city. One that rhymes with 'arse'."

Sera's eyes widened. "Oh. I should have said we needed 'a we' instead of 'an us'. Because…" She gestured. "Wait! Anus?" She laughed. "So stupid."

Erdic held up his glass and laughed. "To all my friends."

"Always and ever, Erdic. Always and ever."


"Lady Ellana. I see you have time for afternoon refreshments!"

Ellana began trying to decide how she was going to extract herself from this nobleman when Cole came up and leaned in to his ear. "Do you know that a merchant in the courtyard is selling gemstones the same colour as your eyes?"

"What an odd thing to say. Hmph. I must see this for myself." The lord stood, bowed to Ellana, and walked off.

She smiled. "You're useful to have around, Cole."

"I still don't understand Orlesians and their masks, but it makes him happy." Cole shrugged. "And I needed the table." He crumpled a piece of stale bread.

"For bread crumbs?"

"Birds like bread crumbs."

Maryden turned towards them and smiled. "Oh, Cole, good day! I didn't see you there."

Cole walked to her, and kissed her cheek. "But I saw you, as lovely as your songs."

"I'm pleased for both of you." Seeing the two of them together reminded her of her and Solas. They had still been no sight of him it was like that he had vanished off the face of the continent.

"The world has ample pain, Lady Ellana. The kindness found in Cole is rare indeed."

"Her songs bring happiness to those who hear…" Cole held Maryden's hands. "And I can make her happy in return."

Ellana smiled. "Well, then. Carry on."


Josephine was fretting again. "It's been quite a day so far, has it not? I've been speaking with representatives from everywhere."

"Have they given you trouble?" Maxwell asked.

"Not at all. It is quite alarming. It means they are saving themselves up for later." Josephine sighed. "Would you walk with me? I should like to take some air before the Exalted Council becomes inescapable…"

They strolled through the gardens. As beautiful as they were, Maxwell found himself missing Skyhold.

"The palace has been most accommodating—we are, after all, here at their insistence—but the ministers may…" Josephine punched a hand into her palm. "No. No more talk of the council. This meeting was to spend time with you in a more relaxed fashion."

Maxwell raised an eyebrow. "Then why can I still see those wheels turning your head?"

Josephine sighed. "Work carries a certain momentum. The truth is, there is a small entertainment happening this afternoon. To which I may be able to find a pair of invitations."

"You'd like me to go with you?"

"Very much so. In all the years you've worked with Orlais, you've had so little time to enjoy its culture."

"I do wish that you'd warned me the Game would take more work after Halamshiral."

Josephine laughed. "It's strange—those were somehow simpler times. With all that's been happening, I promised myself some time out. I'd very much like to go with a friend."

Maxwell shrugged, what harm could it be? "Why not? Josephine, I put myself in your capable hands."

"Splendid! I will arrange things at once." Josephine's smile was a delight to behold. "The past years have been so busy. We have earned at least a few moments of rest."

"A calm night out sounds—"


As it turned out it wasn't as calm as he imagined nor was the entertainment as small is Josephine had described. He found himself at the edge of his seat and was just sat there open mouthed.

Next to him, Josephine cheered. "Oh. Bravo! Bravo!"

"Was the woman in gold playing a king? Who was the man in feathers?" He'd read about Orlesian opera from his Great-aunt Lucille and now understood why she preferred Antivan opera.

"Oh, it's all very simple. The First Actor's mask is determined by…" Josephine saw his face. "Well, I will lend you the program guide. But tell me: did you enjoy the performance?"

"That was…" It was certainly entertaining. "One of the greatest things I've ever seen."

"Truly?"

"The part with the glittery…" He sketched the air with his hands. "And they actually set fire to…" He laughed. "Yes, I truly enjoyed it." It was like watching someone fall down the stairs while juggling a dozen pies.

"Then I call tonight a great success." Something flashed. "Oh, look! The encore signal!"


Adaar had to help Maxwell to their meeting with Vivienne. Erdic found the entire thing humorous, but quietened down when Ellana threatened him with tickets to the opera.

"Darlings, you made it. Excellent. I scheduled this appointment ages ago, and they do appreciate punctuality." Vivienne took Maxwell's hands in hers and led him into a covered alcove.

"Appointment?" he asked.

"With the Imperial Gardens Spa, of course. The four of you work so hard, my dears. I wanted to treat you."

"That sounds like a fantastic idea," said Ellana.

"Or course it is, darling. That's the only kind I have." Vivienne smiled.


Maxwell found the entire spa session more relaxing than Josephine's opera and it was just what he needed.

"What are the cheese wheels for?" Adaar asked.

"It pains me that you even have to ask. You've clearly been living too long in barely civilized conditions."

Maxwell swore he heard someone laughing. "Did you hear something?"

"Relax, darling. It's a spa day." Vivienne laughed lightly. "How have you been? It seems ages since we've last spoken, Ellana darling. I know you were certainly disappointed when Solas left?"

"I'm still not over what happened."

"You deserve so much better, darling, but let's not dwell on the past."

"I still find it hard to believe that Solas would do such a thing," said Erdic.

"I still have people trying to search for him," Maxwell assured.

"Thank you," said Ellana.

Now Maxwell could smell bananas. And someone was laughing, she could just barely hear it over the sound of the fountains. "How do you think the conference will end? What do you think they'll decide?"

"It's all foolish posturing. The nations of Thedas know they can only politely ask the Inquisition to be on its way."

"Don't you feel better, my dear? This place really does work miracles."

Maxwell blinked as someone removed the cheese wheels from his eyes. "What…" Hams were scattered across the floor. And someone had apparently nailed bananas to sticks. "Happened?"

"Darling. It's a spa day. Don't fret. You'll undo all the good they've done. Come along, dears. They have other appointments, you know."

Maxwell looked the other members of the guard and they just simply shrugged.


"Divine Victoria. Am I interrupting?" said Maxwell as he walked up to Leliana, who was busy in a conversation with Arl Teagan.

"Of course not, Inquisitor." She gestured at the man in front of her. "I was just catching up with Redcliffe's arl. He is here to represent Ferelden at the summit."

"Inquisitor. Good to meet you."

"How are things in Redcliffe, my lord?" Maxwell asked.

"Blessedly quiet. My mayor conveys his greetings. Redcliffe remembers its saviour."

"I'll try not to keep you from more important matters." Maxwell gave him a small bow.

"Very well. We'll continue this later, Your Perfection." Teagan returned the bow, and walked off.

Leliana sighed. "Many are frightened of the Inquisition's power, but I will do all I can do allay their fears."

"When world power wants to 'discuss plans of the future,' I get nervous."

"Good. Someone should keep you on your toes. We don't want you to get bored, Inquisitor. I have much to do, but let me say this: I may no longer be part of the Inquisition, but I am always here if you require."

No sooner had Leliana walked away than Teagan returned. "I'm glad you've finally arrived, Inquisitor. The crown's anxious for news."

"And your thoughts on Ferelden's position?" He already knew most of them.

"The Breach is long gone, yet Skyhold's army remains. Ferelden can't continue to ignore soldiers on its borders."

"The Inquisition must have a military arm, Arl Teagan."

"In your position, I would want the same. That does not mean it reassures me. A power without allegiance to either Ferelden or Orlais? Even I see neither of our countries can let it rest. I won't keep you longer. We'll have words enough when the Exalted Council begins."


"I see that Teagan didn't waste any time expressing his concerns," said Theron.

"Can't you do anything to help us with Ferelden you are their hero after all?" Maxwell asked.

"That is why it has given them pause, but everyone has their limits Inquisitor," said Theron. "In their position I can't say that I blame. We pretty much stand on their border and they have long memories of the Orlesian occupation."

"Yes I can see their concerns," Maxwell nodded.

"Both King Alistair and Queen Elissa believe that you're doing good work and would like to work with, but as King and Queen they have to serve their people first."

"How is Oisine? Maxwell asked.

"She has her mother's voice," Theron smiled. "She's already walking has spoken her first word."

"And what what is that?"

"Papa," Theron smiled.

"Must be a very proud moment for you," said Maxwell.

"It was," Theron nodded. "Anyway, I think you should know that I feel a uncertainty here I dislike. Too many watching. It feels like…" He frowned. "I don't know."

"What in particular?"

"The servants are waiting. Like they expect something to happen. And…" He shrugged. "There are many things it could be, Inquisitor, but something is going on."

"See what else you can find. Maybe talk to Sera and Bull."

"Yes, Inquisitor."


"Orlais is on our side, Lord Pavus. The Inquisition's support is not a thing to lose lightly."

"Which is why the Orlesian court is circling it with a net and collar?" Dorian folded his arms, and was clearly channelling Tevinter. He caught sight of Maxwell, and smiled. "But you'll have to excuse me. I see an old friend I must greet." He walked away from the Duke, and strode towards him. "Inquisitor. How long has it been? Don't actually tell me, I despise feeling old." He shook hands. "It's good to see you, my friend."

"You arrive ahead of me. I hope all's well."

"It's everything I expected. We've been spared the burden of surprise." Hearing that from his favourite pessimist was not comforting. "Orlais wants the Inquisition tamed, Ferelden wants it gone, the Chantry meddles, and Tevinter sends but one ambassador. That's me, by the way. A 'reward for my interest in the South.'"

"Well, it looks good on you."

"Thankfully, 'Ambassador Pavus' is a token appointment. Call on me as you like."

After he left Duke Cyril made his way towards him.

"Inquisitor. Duke Cyril Montfort, member of the Council of Heralds and Lord of Chateau Haine. I have long followed your work. It is extraordinary."

"Is that sentiment shared by the rest of the court?" Duke Cyril was an ally, but not one to be trusted.

He laughed. "Of course. Orlais wishes only to offer respectful guidance to the Inquisition."

A leash. At least the Fereldens were honest in their intent. "Does Your Grace feel the Inquisition should continue to rule itself?"

"I would rather see the Inquisition join us freely than be carved into pieces for the chessboard." More polite. But still a threat. "I have not forgotten Justinia's death. I had friends who perished at the Temple of Sacred Ashes. More than the good you have done, it is the good we may do together I don't wish to lose. Whatever happens, Inquisitor, I wish you well."


"As the most eloquent dwarf you know, Sparkles—"

Sera raised her glass. "Speech! Speech! Way too much speech."

"Varric, there's really no need…" Dorian looked at him and the rest of the guard. His face looked guilty.

Maxwell walked over, stepping over the passed out Iron Bull. "What's going on?"

"Inquisitor! You and the guard are just in time." Varric gestured at Dorian. "Sparkles, the Imperium doesn't deserve you. Or want you. It may even kill you. But we'll miss you, if it counts." Maxwell blinked and looked at the other guard who looked equally surprised. Varric must have caught the expression on their faces. The glare from Dorian probably didn't hurt either. "Aaaaand you didn't know." He began gesturing. "Okay, folks! Time to take the party elsewhere."

Iron Bull let out a snore and mumbled something in his sleep. Varric just shrugged. "Errrr, leave him."

Since Maxwell knew him best he was the one that made his towards him. Dorian was standing there with his back turned to him, looking at the fountain. "It's true. When the Exalted Council has ended, I'm going back to Tevinter…" He turned to face him. "For good, this time."

Maxwell nodded. "Tevinter need someone like you."

He sighed. "My father is dead. Assassinated, I believe." Maxwell closes eyes and nodded. "I received notice this morning: a perversely cheerful letter congratulating me on assuming his seat in the Magisterium. We only met a few times while I was home. He didn't say anything about keeping me as his heir. This 'ambassadorship'… His doing, I'm told. He must have wanted me away when the trouble started. I have to go back."

"I know it was complicated, but…" He looked directly into Dorian's eyes with sympathy. "I'm sorry about your father."

Dorian nodded in gratitude. "Thank you. It still doesn't feel real."

"I wish you safe travels, and the best of luck."

"Oh, I'll need it. Thank you. Magisters are tricksy bastards." He held something out to him. "A present. A going-away present. It's a sending crystal. Amazing what friendship with the Inquisition gives you access to. If I get in over my head, or you're overwhelmed with sorrow for lack of my velvety voice…" He gestured dramatically. "Magic." He grinned. "What—you didn't think I would just leave and you'd never hear from me again, did you?" He placed a hand on his shoulder. "You are my dearest friend, perhaps my only friend. That will never change, no matter where we are."

Maxwell nodded.

Dorian then rubbed his hands together. "Now let's finish the good wine before the others get back."


"Will you walk with me?" Leliana asked. Maxwell followed her. "The first time I came to the Winter Palace, I was only eighteen. I was dazzled. Such rich hangings. Splendid marble columns. More golden lions than I could count. It's all still here. Still bright. But I no longer see that same palace."

Maxwell nodded. "Everything changes. People most of all."

"Yes." Leliana looked down at her hands. "Now all I see are hands rubbed raw to make gold gleam, tears shed in the night over silk embroidery. Others overlook them and forget their pain, but I am Divine, and I cannot be blind." She looked at where the delegates were gathered. "They seek to tear the Inquisition down. You feel it, no? Fear."

As hard as it was, he tried to make light of it. "I'd fear anyone with our vault of secrets. Wouldn't you?"

"It is not our secrets, nor our soldiers. There have always been spymasters and private armies. They are afraid of nothing so much as the hand that directs it all."

The hand that ached, even now. "Mine."

"Already, your actions have begun to reshape Thedas. Your influence is felt everywhere. It was only a matter of time before they moved. I'm surprised it took this long. The Inquisition's time is coming to an end."

If it must. The Maker would guide them. Perhaps the Inquisition need not so much end as change. "Is that the decree of Her Perfection Divine Victoria? That the Inquisition be dissolved?"

"As Divine, it is my duty to think of Thedas—and all her peoples." She smiled, but there was sorrow behind her eyes. "We set out to restore peace. And now peace is upon us. You and I have come so far through the darkness together. It is time for us both to live in the light." Leliana laid a hand on his shoulder. "But whatever you decide, I will be honoured to stand beside you."