Maeven idly traced the mouth of her mug, still half full of whatever alcohol Varric had handed to her. Her mouth curved in a happy smile, it had snowed heavily the night before and she had walked into the tavern grinning like a fool. Bull had raised his eyebrows in surprise and she'd blushed, unable to stop her stupid mouth. Instead she sat down at a table and watched as people entered, seeking warmth and company. Varric tromped in and upon seeing her, promptly grabbed two mugs from the barman and sat down at her table. Whereupon he had engaged her attention, and everyone elses, by telling the most outrageous tales of his time with the Champion of Kirkwall. Her companions had slowly trickled into the tavern over the slow morning, and more tables had been added for all to sit at. Even Leliana and Josephine had shown up for a while, leaving with rosy cheeks and breathless laughter. In fact everyone had stopped by, except Cullen. So lost in her thoughts, Maeven didn't realize her companions had fallen into silence. Her thoughts were interrupted by Cole's soft voice.
"Tomorrow she leaves. The way must be clear, what can I do? Maker, keep her safe. How long will she be gone? So tired, no, focus. Reports, where are reports of the mountain passes? Which paths are safest? Snow, blighted snow will have blocked many of the paths. So much to do. Don't let her see, Maker, don't let her come now. Vision blurry, temples pounding, not now, please not now. So much to do…"
Cole looked up at Maeven. "He needs you."
Maeven took Cole's hands and gave them a squeeze. She shot her friends an apologetic and sad smile before she hurried out.
Cole watched her go, "Maker, why does he do this to himself. He'll tear himself apart. Steps are icy. The wind had picked up, poor watchmen. Remember to send them hot cocoa. Is he in his tower? Let him be here. Stupid, stubborn man. No, no, no, she's here. Don't let her see. Please… so soft, her hands are so soft. Cold, is it her magic or just the cold? Where did she come from? Want to hold her, crush her to me. Never let go. Don't leave. Don't leave. Won't leave, don't lock me out. Let me in. Tell me. Hold me, I'll never let you go. I love you."
Cole smiled. "I helped."