A/N) Regarding smut. Yes I enjoy it. Yes I have written it. Yes I may create a "saucy parts" version of this tale. Thing is when I go racey I get REALLY racey... and this is still FF. NET

I am looking into posting on a site that I feel comfortable with truly adult material. Should I do so, I will make a note in that current chapter and on the first A/N. Until then, I hope you enjoy the "cute version."

- End A/N -

Cullen was always an early riser. Even so, by the time he came fully awake Dorian had already left the small watchtower in favor of returning to his own part of the Hold. Cullen could tell by the placement of the stars in the light grey of the earliest hours that he still had time before anyone expected him. Rather than return to working, he simply pulled on his clothing and quietly padded across the bridge to the main fortress.

Solas was still snoring from his place in the rotunda, having fallen asleep with a book in hand that sometime in the night had fallen haphazardly to the floor. Cullen bent to place the volume back on the table in the center of the room before continuing through the thankfully deserted hall and across to the Inquisitor's quarters. At the top he shared a nod with the guard who had taken vigil overnight and pushed the door open.

The fire was still going, though only slightly. Cullen knew from experience of Bel's need for the extra warmth, of the comforting heat in this coldly mountainous place. The last embers were starting to give out now as the morning drew close. Rather than stir the flames back, the Commander kicked off his boots and curled up beside the still sleeping elf.

Belathen had taken the opportunity of sleeping alone to stretch out across the massive bed. Even so, as soon as she felt the dip in the mattress she immediately rolled over to allow her Commander to join her. Once he had settled in, she then turned back to grab hold and nuzzle into his chest. She looked so small there Cullen couldn't help but imagine her as a child. She must have been horrible to raise- petulant, overactive, snarky. Right now though the thought was adorable. He settled his arm at her back, letting her snuggle in closer, and they shared a mutual sigh of contentment.

"Neth'ra," the sleepy Lavellan mumbled. Cullen chuckled, knowing just enough elvish to translate the butchered version she spoke while half-awake. Thanks to Solas' kind gesture to help him learn.

"Good morning to you too, Bel."

One eye slid open and Belathen hid her face in Cullen's shirt. "Too dark for morning." Then she quite suddenly popped awake. "How was your evening?"

"Would you believe horrifying?" he asked. Belathen paused a moment and shook her head vigorously. "Very well. It was... enjoyable."

Bel grinned wide. "I thought that would be the case. Will you be seeing him again?"

"Maybe."

"You should!" Belathen urged. "I have to go out in the field anyway, so you two can use the time to get a little closer."

Cullen pouted. "How long will you be gone?"

"No more than a month," Bel assured. "Solas pointed out a few things we should check out in the Exalted Plains before moving on."

"You will be careful?"

"Always, ma'lath," Bel assured as she pressed a kiss to his cheek. "I should tell Varric and Cassandra to be ready to go tomorrow."

"Then..." Cullen found himself feeling selfish, unsure how to go about his request. "Could you spend today with me? After you let them know?"

Belathen had a huge grin on her face. "Of course."

Cullen almost dragged her out of bed right then, anxious to start the day with his love. But instead he moved to pin her beneath him, spurred on further by her delighted squeal as he began the morning with her in the best way possible.