A/N Thank you for the reviews. They really do inspire me to pull all nighters and write :3

I have been rather busy and kinda late on this chapter, and because of it I have invested double the time and extra the work. I can't promise an early chapter 5 due to the fact that I have 2 research papers to work on. 3 more weeks of school and then I can finally take a break.
I've been rather picky about my chapters, and I hope I don't disappoint. I hope you understand where I'm going with this chapter.

*ooOoOoo*

I was alone. Empty air surrounded me as I stood on the edge of a cliff, a large full moon residing above me, its white light casting a glow against my skin. I looked down and below me there was nothing but hollow darkness. My bare feet stood perfectly at the ledge of a cliff, a gown of forest green floundered around my ankles as a soft breeze circled my body. I made an effort to move away but found it impossible. My legs were weighted down, physically out of my control. I watched in horror as my arms drifted out in front of me. I had to be dreaming. Only this could happen in a nightmare.

"Oh Mira, I can feel it now. Soon, I will be free." The voice was soft, purring tenderly into my ears. I watched in dismay as my hands began to trace over my body, running smoothly over my hips and thighs. I wanted to stop, to pull my arms away, and to step safely from the edge of the ominous abyss lying beneath me. She laughed then, that enthralling voice. My fingers began to slowly inch up my belly, trace over my breasts then make their way towards my neck. A strangled scream choked in the back of my throat as I fought with an invisible force to gain control. Nothing. My lips would not part, leaving me to silently grieve the disturbing torment within my mind.

"Hush, child. Do not fear me. Do not be scared." I felt the comforting words as they brushed against my skin in reassurance. I felt the fear slowly ebbing away, the familiar voice luring me into a calm trance, causing my minds screaming to come to an abrupt halt.

"When I ask you to, you will help me. You will help me escape." The edges of my vision began to blur. I just wanted to fade in the distance, to forget everything that was taking place. The ground beneath me began to dissipate, pitching me into the abyss, my hair whipping against my face sharply as I plunged into the darkness. I closed my eyes slightly as the familiar laughter filled my ears. And I found myself not caring. I could only focus on her voice. It was so close, so very close and yet there was no one alongside me.

"Where are you?" The question escaped my throat in a strangulated sound, the words lost amongst the darkness. There was no answer.
The end never came; the abyss had turned into a black void, sucking me into its depths, leaving me feeling empty and cold.

I woke with a start, my body jolting off the make shift cot I lay on. My heart pounded in my chest as I frantically surveyed my surroundings. Reality slowly sunk back in as I took in the entirety of Anders' clinic. I placed my hand over my chest as I slowed my breathing, the pounding of my heart beating violently against my rib cage. It had just been a dream. Nothing to be scared of, and yet I could feel the adrenaline rushing through my veins.

I closed my eyes and slowly began to count, taking in deep breaths to ease my breathing. If only I had my inhaler. I could feel the fear ebbing away. The ache in my lungs eased away and I slowly rose from the cot, glancing over into the corner where Anders normally sat. But he was not there. I circled the room quickly, wondering if my eyes deceived me. Where had he gone?

I looked out the window and frowned as I noticed the moon high in the sky, its light spilling through the windows giving the room a radiant aura. It was still well into the night, and yet I doubted I could fall back asleep.

I fell down onto the cot drawing my knees against my chest. Thoughts and questions began to swirl in my head, a dull ache throbbing gently against my temples. Everything just confused me. Where had Anders gone? What was that dream about? Why was I not waking up from this horrible nightmare? Nightmare. I seemed to be having those a lot recently. And yet it all felt so real. Anders. He was real. He had to be. And yet he could use magic. Magic had always been a fantasy to me, something that could never happen. So, was I lost in some fantasy world? And that woman…

I gave a sigh as I closed my eyes. That made no sense. And yet here I was sitting in some strange clinic, guest to a warlock. I found myself sitting where Anders normally sat, tears threatening behind my closed eyes. I just wanted to go home. I had had enough of this place. Of these crazy dreams. Several hours passed with no sign of Anders. My eyes fastened to the wooden doors in anticipation of his arrival, my ears straining for any audible sound of his return. I could really use his company right now.

Where could he have gone at a time like this? I gave a sigh as thoughts of Anders took over my thoughts. I couldn't read him. He always seemed to be fighting a battle within himself, and losing horribly. He looked so tormented in thought half the time, his face reflecting his agony. It almost made me wonder what he was secretly enduring. Before I had fallen asleep I remember sitting beside the fire, watching him intently as he continued to write his manifesto. The soft scratching of his pen against the parchment had filled the room in soft melody. Observing him was soothing, his movements' fluid and proficient, each flick of his wrist procuring a flawless message. He noticed me moments later and I had turned away embarrassed, as if I had been intruding on something personal, but he had smiled, rolling the parchment up quickly than placing it beside him.

I had no idea what time it had been, but I knew it was growing late into the night. My eyes had started to get heavy with fatigue and I remember giving a giant yawn. Anders insisted I lay on his cot; it was more comfortable he claimed and deserving of a Templar assassin. I refused several times only to find myself lying under a rough wool blanket on his bed, my cheeks flame red in uneasiness. He hardly slept he stated, propping himself against the stone wall. I felt uncomfortable at first, but then found myself slowly sinking into the warm makeshift bed. He asked me about where I was from then. Asking me if I remembered anything about what had happened.

I didn't know where to start. Was I from the future? Or did I fall into some story book? Or…Was I mentally insane? There were so many possibilities but going into detail would only complicate matters. So I settled with time travel. He perked with curiosity as I embellished my theory. What else could possibly explain my appearing in this world?

He asked me more questions, and I answered them carefully, not sure whether or not it was safe to elaborate details. So many movies and stories advise against it after all. But what answer could I have possibly given him when he asked if there were mages in the future. I recall biting my tongue as I thought of a simple answer. After several moments of mental torment he broke the silence with a sigh. He knew the answer, and somehow that lead to him retreating within himself. It wasn't the effect I had hoped to impose.

The crackling of the fire filled the empty room as several hours passed. The ache in my head began to intensify forcing me to lie back onto the cold cot. My fingers brushed against the gold trinket dangling under my blouse, thoughts of my mother surfacing into my muddled thoughts.

Her warm brown eyes, her dark brown hair, and the smell of her perfume filling my senses. The trinket had been an early graduation gift and yet I found myself doubting that would even be possible. Diana and school flashed behind my eyes as I thought of the exams I missed, of the graduation I was no doubt going to luck out on. I choked back a sob as I pushed the thoughts away. I would fix it all when I got home. Oh how I missed being back home where everything was normal.

"Mom…"

I placed my hands over my face as I finally gave way to the tears threatening behind my eyes, hot streams of sorrow gushing down my cheeks, the throbbing in my head the only indication that this was all too real.

Anders returned just as the sun lightened the sky. I pretended to be asleep as I listened to him move about the room. When I decided to 'wake-up' he insisted we visit Hawke in Hightown, something very important needed to be discussed. He wouldn't embellish any details, not that I expected him to. I didn't ask him where he had been all night either. He looked tired, dark circles forming under his blood shot eyes. I made sure to rub at my cheeks, a futile attempt at hiding the tears I had been shedding earlier that morning. I hadn't been able to sleep after my nightmare, causing me to spend several hours tormenting myself with thoughts of home.

He started thrashing through several sheets of paper as he muttered under his breath. His face was shadowed in stubble, making him look so much older than he really was. He had paused momentarily, glancing into my face briefly before rushing from the clinic, a couple of books tucked under his arm. I said nothing as he stormed out of the clinic. I didn't know what to say. I knew practically nothing about Anders, and assuming I could comfort him would only lead to more problems. So I quietly followed behind him, my bare feet roughly slapping against stone as I tried hard to keep pace.

And there I was, in the middle of Hightown. Men and women wearing extravagant clothing aimlessly walked the streets, conversations filling the air as neighbors and comrades mingled. Large red draperies garlanded the walls of the city, falling in a wave of crimson beauty against the tanned sandy parapets. It was a significant change from that of Darktown. There were no flies to swat, no stench of sewage, and most of all there was plenty of sunshine. The fresh air lightened my mood and I found myself silently enjoying the atmosphere.

We made our way slowly towards Hawke's estate. Pillars adorned the front, large vines of moss spiraled up and over the large stone structure. Ornamenting the pillars poised two of his kinfolk's crests, booming to the world of the noble lineage that lived behind those sheltered walls. There was no doubt in my mind that Hawke was a vital alley to Anders.

"I'm sorry you have to be bothered with my dealings." Anders hesitated in front of the large wooden door, his hands curling beside him. He was preparing himself for something. I gently placed a hand on the back of his arm, a smile touching my lips. "Don't worry. It's fine." He gave a low grunt before moving away from my touch. I dropped my hand to my side, my thoughts conflicted with emotions.

Why did I bother? Why should I feel anything for him? I snubbed my thoughts as I walked through the doorway, my eyes taking in the splendor of the estate. Hanging from the ceiling swung an elegant chandelier, small lit candles melting in tiny golden holders twinkling softly within the chandelier. Beneath my feet laid clean ashen colored stone flooring, a wonderful change from all the dirt. Potted plants adorned the spacious foyer, large blooming red flowers filling the room with a floral aroma. An enormous fire place roared to the right of me, popping with life as fresh wood began to crack under the orange flames, the heat touching my skin instantly sending a delightful shiver down my skin. To the left Hawke sat at a heavy desk, engrossed in paperwork. He wore robes of dark brown, gilded lettering garnishing the chest of his garments. He looked at ease, and yet dominating even in his relaxing attire.

His piercing eyes caught us as we entered the entrance hall. He placed away several letters before pushing away from his study to greet us. I felt so out of place. I felt like I was being pulled further into this fantasy world.

Hawke greeted Anders with a curt nod before flashing me a gentle smile in acknowledgment. "Anders, I wasn't expecting you. Is something wrong?"

Anders glanced at me nervously before replying. "Do you mind extending your hospitality to Mira? She is in need of freshening up."

I wrinkled my nose at his statement. Was I that unbearable? I ran my fingers through my grimy hair, the greasy strands coarse and repulsive to my touch. I would take it. If he offered a bath then I couldn't object. Hawke swiftly agreed, turning to a tiny stout man standing beside the banister. Words were exchanged and then he was off, bounding up the stairs shouting something or other about hot water and enchantments. Anders turned to me quickly, pulling a small bundle out of the coat of his jacket.

"Here, these should be handy. I'll be speaking with Hawke privately while you bathe. We should be done when you are finished." I moved to thank him but he had already moved away and stood beside Hawke. I bowed my head in response as I hurried up the stairs, wishing more than ever that I could just shoot myself in the head.

The hot water was wonderful! Sandal, the dwarf man who set up my bath, had filled the stone tub full of steaming water. At first I was surprised to see he was a dwarf. But how could that really surprise me? When you have elves and magic it only seems natural. I tore off my clothes the moment sandal exited the room. He was a little off when I gushed my thanks, just staring at me with those large blue eyes and creepy grin.

I let out a squeal of delight as I practically dove into the water. The steam swirled around me curling the hairs at the nape of my neck. I pushed myself under the water, closing my eyes as I soaked two days of dirt from my skin. After several seconds I pushed myself up above the water, the warm liquid magnificent against my bare skin, every inch of me throbbing in response. I leaned back against the stone tub and closed my eyes as I let me legs float in front of me. They may not have television or internet but at least they had bath water and for now I would settle for that.

I could feel the knots in my back relaxing as the heat took over, my skin became flushed from the warmth of the water. Anders. Instantly my thoughts were drawn back to him. Those dark brown eyes full of anxiety and misery. After our conversation he had disappeared emotionally and I had felt so guilty. I shouldn't have said anything at all. I should have lied. Mages. Templars. All of this was nonsense. And where had he gone last night? Something told me I probably didn't want to know. Maybe he had a lover. The thought of him running off to see some lover troubled my thoughts. I gave a sigh as I sat up, reaching for the bar of soap sitting beside me. I began to scrub at my skin, my speculations fueling my frustration. Anders and his problems! Why did I find myself caring? Sure, he had saved me from Templars and healed my wounds, but still! He was slowly digging under my skin, and I found no way of getting him out. I moved the bar of soap to the top of my head, lathering my hair full before digging my nails into my scalp and scrubbing.

After two rinses I felt satisfied. I leaned back against the stone tub feeling perfect. I no longer felt like a peasant child running the streets smelling like filth with dust clinging to my skin. And all thoughts of Anders faded from my mind. This was just what I needed. Now to set a course of plans. I would find a way back home. I would speak to Merrill and find some means of getting me back through the mirror. I was not going to subject myself to any more fairy tale drama, no more worrying about things that did not pertain to me. My hand sub-consciously reached up and clung to the necklace dangling around my throat, the warm pendant rubbing against my fingertips. Thoughts of my mother surfaced into my thoughts and I heaved a heavy sigh. My disappearing no doubt had her searching frantically. They would find my car on the side of the road, but not me. Images of my mother crying filled my head, and it took everything in me to choke back a sob and clear my minds eye.

I need to relax. No more contemplation or sentiments. I released the mental grip I held and forced myself to relax. I could feel myself slowly drifting into sleep, my entire body relax and at ease. It was no wonder I barely heard the soft click of the door opening.

"Hawke told me there was a ravishing beauty soaking in the tub up here; I had no idea just how pleasing to the eye you were." My eyes flew open in alarm as my arms covered my breasts and I slumped down into the water. I looked in shock as a tall slender woman stood in the door way. A large smirk spread over her lips as she watched me fixedly. Her skin was bronzed, her dark brown hair tied back with a blue bandana, her cat like eyes shining with merriment as she loomed over me. I stammered as I tried to find something to say.

"Oh don't worry, I don't mind. I've seen plenty of naked women. Slept with some even. The names Isabela." She placed her hands on her hips, swaying her hips gently as her grin widened. "Would you like me to help?" I felt my cheeks enflame as I tried to push myself further under the water. I shook my head violently as I wished more than anything that she'd disappear.

She walked over to a stone bench picking up a large white towel, holding it out in front of her as she closed her eyes. "I swear I will not peek, no matter how tempting it may be." I stared up at her for a minute, not exactly wanting to move from the shelter of the water. Was she crazy? What the hell?

"Come on sweetie. Let's go! I can't hold my hands out forever!" I tightened my grip around myself before leaping upwards and ripping the towel from her grasp. I flung it around me, my gaze intently on her closed eyes and glowing smile. She was teasing me. It made me feel uncomfortable. Her eyes slowly peeled open, the gleam in her eyes dancing with excitement.

"See? I kept my promise. Now…Where are your clothes?" I glanced down at the pile of rags I had torn off prior to my bath. She followed my gaze, walking over to my school uniform, nudging it with the tip of her boot. "You're better off running around naked. Wait right here, I have some clothes that will totally perk out your breasts and accentuate your curves. Unless…you want to run around naked?" I instantly regretted not bringing the outfit Merrill had given me. I wasn't sure I wanted to wear anything Isabela offered. She gave a soft chuckle as she left the room, off to find some "decent" clothes for me to wear.

I tightened the towels hold around me, tucking it gently under my arms. I moved towards the bench picking up the package Anders had given me. I un-wrapped a tiny wooden comb and a small powder blue jar from its depths. I twisted open the jar and sniffed gingerly at the cream residing inside. It had a light aroma, soft and delicate to the senses. It almost smelled like rose petals, but faintly.

I dipped my fingers into the cold ointment running it over my fingers cautiously before determining it was safe. And why wouldn't it be? Anders wouldn't hurt me. I spread the cream over my skin, slowly rubbing it into my flesh, the smell intensifying with every stroke. I lift my foot onto the stone bench and began to apply more of the cream. My skin thanked me as I nourished it, rubbing it back to a glowing health. The door creaked open behind me and I shot up, my hands warily clinging to the bath towel wrapped around my bare body.

"These should fit you, and I think they will enhance all you're assets as well." She placed the clothing down, observing me with her golden brown eyes, a tiny smirk turning the corners of her lips. "Come now; let me help you get dressed." My eyes grew at her suggestion, a nervous laugh escaping my throat. Sure, I had seen other naked girls. Plenty when it came to physical education and showering in the locker rooms. But I have never had well-endowed good-looking woman insist on seeing me nude or help me dress. "It's not necessary." I felt extremely vulnerable as I backed away from her stretched out arms.

"I don't bite unless asked to." She was persistent, as if dressing me was a challenge. She stepped towards me in a flash, ripping the towel from my hold. I gave a strangled gasp as cold air touched my skin, goose bumps running up and down my arms. Before I knew what was happening she was shoving a white shift over my head, soft cotton sweeping over my skin. I slipped my arms through the holes letting the material fall in a flowing wave over my torso. The shift stopped at the top of my thighs, small ruffles hanging from the bottom of the shift prickling my soft skin. The bodice of the shift was square cut, the sleeves barely covering my shoulders. My chest wasn't nearly as full as Isabela's, leaving it slightly baggy.

"Hmm…A girdle should remedy that. Sorry darling, the Maker only blesses some of us." She pulled a dark blue tunic from the pile of clothing, pressing it over my head gently. The cloth fell to my mid-thigh, the hem of the material traced in small golden stiches. The sleeves of the tunic fell to my wrists, voluminous and artfully designed with golden embroidery. Next she was forcing my legs through tight fitting woolen trousers, the material clinging to my thighs and hips. It was like wearing a second skin almost.

"You're coming along nicely you know."
I started to feel as if I fit in, that I was now playing a role in a story book legend. I ran my hands over the clothes, a sense of delight filling my chest. It was like playing dress up all over again, except I wasn't five anymore, and this wasn't Rome, New York.

"Did Hawke send you up here?" I eyed her attentively as she picked up a leather girdle. She speedily circled my waist with it, fastening it over my abdomen and gently tugging on the leather straps. I gave a heavy groan as I felt the air being forced from my lungs, my ribs being involuntary crashed together under the grips of the girdle.

"Hawke and Anders mentioned you, and I'm sure you were just a distraction so they could converse in peace. Otherwise I'd be eavesdropping on them right now." She flashed me a winning smile, a look of mischievous amusement radiating over her features. She reminded me of a gypsy, the gaudy gold necklace garnishing her throat along with large spherical earrings hanging from her lobes. She gave me a once over, clicking her tongue in approval.

"You know, I don't normally dress other women. It's typically me un-dressing them. But I suppose the years have changed me." She tilted her head back and gave a hearty laugh. I could only nervously smile at her declaration, not exactly sure what one says to such a statement.

Beside the door stood a full mirror, my image catching my attention, a familiar look staring back at me from its silver reflective surface. Tangled auburn hair lay in a damp mass upon my shoulders, my cheeks glowing pink from the heat of the bath, or maybe from Isabela's rude intrusion. My gray eyes looked translucent in the candle light, my skin pale and delicate against the deep sapphire blue of my new ensemble. My spirits were lifted, a tiny smile spreading over my glowing face. Intrusion aside I had a wonderful bath, now, to find my way home. I tucked my necklace under my tunic, giving one last look into the mirror before leaving the room.

Who knew a bath could make someone feel ten times better. I carefully navigated down the steps, my hand lazily sliding down the polished banister. Isabela had disappeared somewhere, something or other claiming her attention. I was glad to be free from her overbearing brashness.

I made it to the bottom of the stairs, my gaze searching for any sign of Anders or Hawke. The foyer was empty save for a dwarf man standing beside a desk, a crooked smile highlighting his features. I gave him an unsure smile before averting my gaze. Creepy.

I noticed a door leading off to another room to my right. I slowly strode towards it only to pause at the sound of Anders voice. It was faint at first, but then his voice grew in volume.

"I have to do - Hawke, and I need - help. I need to be rid of -." The rest was muffled but I had heard enough to draw my own conclusions. I sucked my breath in as a wave of crushing hurt crashed into my body, the sensation radiating through my chest. I shouldn't jump to conclusions I told myself. I have no idea what the conversation is about. And yet the prickling in my stomach swore he was referring to me. I backed away from the door, my hand dropping to my side in defeat. I guess I have been imposing. I bit back my injured emotions; I would not let this bother me. If he didn't want me around, then I would simply thank him and be on my way. The night before seemed to confirm his feelings and I couldn't help but wonder what exactly I had said or done that unsettled him.

I found myself fuming on a stone bench at the entrance of the estate moments later. His words had stung my pride, and although it had hurt at first I found myself becoming enraged. I sat with my feet tucked underneath me, my head pulled into my knees as I began to think of how I would get home. I would find Merrill and the mirror; I would ask her to somehow activate its powers and send me on my way. I would be rid of this place.

'Leave'

I should.

'You don't need him. Leave. Now.'

I found myself standing before the door in a daze, an unknown force pulling me to move. My hands gripped the handle of the wooden door my insides tormenting me mentally.

'Go.'

The door flew open as I gave a swift yank, the smells and sounds of the street slamming into my senses, a wave of air sending my hair flying around my face in a wave of red brown strands. Despite my hurt feelings I managed to smile, my feet pushing me into the bustling of the town. Destination unknown I began to blindly stroll along, my hand gently caressing the pendant dangling about my neck.

I just want to apologize because I took some time with this and I've been rather picky. I know what I want but it's complicated in my head. So many things I want to happen. I do plan to make this a pretty decent sized story. It will be longer than 10 chapters for sure. Please review. Your reviews help with ideas and also inspire me to continue. I actually want ideas from you as the reader. You'd be surprised what awesomeness can happen. Until next chapter ;3

PS: I quick edited this chapter. And I did a LOT of editing. So please let me know if you notice any errors so I can go back and fix them. kthnx

FYI: I will ALWAYS post the status of my next chapter under my profile. I figure it gives you a general idea of when the chapter will be posted.