Wicked Minds

The night the ball had finally arrived after dealing with Varric's ex-girlfriend being the reason Corypheus has red lyrium. I wish I had never asked about Bianca now. Then, of course, there was Sera's making wine out of a noble's face. To honest though he did try killing her first. I wanted to avoid this event since I "had nothing to wear" But Thankfully Vivienne's tailor knew exactly what I needed, she had made me this lovely draped black dress that swept and sparkled in the moonlight, even Dorian called me radiant in it. The deep scoop in the back showed off my scars for all to see, while I was uncomfortable after covering them for 12 years, I knew showing them might make anyone in the court think twice about attacking me. Who said they needed to know how I got them? Any uncertainties I had were covered by my mother's mask, the raven was out to play tonight, as I heard the whispers of the courtiers as we passed. They sounded impressed.

Good, But I wanted to impress only one man tonight though and he was next to me escorting us into the entrance. Cullen looked lovely in his military uniform such as I don't think I was the only one attracting people's attention. Well back away ladies, he was mine and no one else's. I gave him a soft smile he didn't want to be here as much as I did. We were not court people we'd rather be taking action on a battlefield. But as my Cousin so delightfully had told me is I was getting dressed for this, tonight was a battlefield. Of course, he was happy with Cassandra on his arm in formal uniform. I guess Vivienne could not talk her into a dress.

Josephine was next to us as we made our way to the gates, she was in a lovely gold number that suited her well.
"now remember, The political situation here hangs by a thread, and the empress believes our presence here could sever it."
She looked towards the gates "the grand duke is only too happy to have us at the ball as his guests, so our invitation comes from him. whether we act as his allies or upset the balance of power, he gains an opportunity... if not a clear advantage."

Duke Gaspard was waiting for us and by the look in his eyes, he liked my outfit just as well. If it is that good then it will be my advantage tonight.

"Inquisitor Trevelyan! it is an honor to meet you at last. the rumors coming out of the western approach say you battled an army of demons. imagine what the inquisition could accomplish with the full support of the rightful emperor of Orlais!"

I smiled the grand duke was just like all the rest, cocky and stuck up. it was not Tara meeting the duke tonight, the mask was in place, the raven was at play, "and which one was the rightful one again? I keep getting them confused."

He bowed, "The handsome, charming one, of course, my lady." he laughed slightly under his breath, " I am not one who forgets his friends, Inquisitor. You help me, I'll help you."
We walked into the courtyard, "My lady, are you prepared to shock the court by walking into the grand ball with a hateful usurper? They will be telling stories of this into the next age."
The Raven Loved the game, smart words and their dance at play in the halls of the winter palace, so many things I could do with my tongue here, one line, one action and you could finish them, "I can't imagine that crowd has seen anything better than us in their entire lives."

I smiled hoping he bought my gusto, the only good thing his outfit could be was tinder. He should take a note from Cullen, who looked devastating in the military uniform that was picked out for him. The duke, of course, was too caught up in himself to notice my lie, "You're a woman after my own heart, my lady. As a friend perhaps there is a matter that you could undertake this evening." ah here we go, knew there was something he wanted, "This elven woman, Briala. I suspect that she intends to disrupt the negotiations. My people have found these ambassadors all over the fortifications, sabotage seems to be the least of their crimes." I glanced at Cullen for a moment he seemed to be interested in the dukes suggestion, but... "Tell me there is more to your suspicions than, the elves were acting dodgy" Useful to know about Briala, but he is trying to distract me, the duke must have plans here too. his military mind most likely would not let him rest without a backup plan.

"That ambassador Briala used to be a servant of Célene's, that is before my cousin had her arrested for crimes against the empire to cover up a political mistake. If anyone in this room wishes Célene harm inquisitor, it's that elf. She certainly has reason."
he sighed, " Be as discreet as possible I detest the game but if we do not play it well our enemies will make us look like villains. we're keeping the court waiting inquisitor. shall we?"
Yeah, and they can keep waiting I thought as Fennic and Alex came up behind us.
"This thing itches" Fennic grunted as she adjusted her dress.

"so at least they didn't shave most of your hair off... Again." Alex grumbled rubbing the sides of his head where his hair had been trimmed to the quick. the top and back was trimmed short and tousled. I thought he looked rather dashing. "I'll have you know that it's the latest fashion in tevene. But as a Tevinter you should know that." Dorian smirked walking by, he was the one that gave him the haircut.

"Could be worse, you guys could be the person in charge of one of the largest organizations of recent times. Forced to play nice with some of the biggest..." I saw Josephine's glare "heh as you can see."

"Yeah no thanks, I am going to check with my contacts." she strode off in the emerald green number they had placed her in. I still cannot believe they got her into a dress, let alone a ball.

Alex Glanced Behind us with Cassandra on his arm. "Incoming." and he turned.

"Darling," heard a cheer from behind me. I turned to see my great- aunt, she looked well in her navy blue gown and silver mask. Her pale hair gleamed in the moonlight. "And Alexander it's been too long." he bent over to let her kiss him on the cheek, " I know Aunt Lucille." he smiled. Everyone loved my aunt despite her eccentricities.

"Aw, And you look so handsome" Alex was wearing a dark Blue tailcoat with silver embellishments. It was tailored well and matched his black pants.

" It's Orlais I had to," His steel-blue eyes glanced to Cassandra next to him. they both felt the same on formal attire.
Aunt Lucille glanced at both of them behind her mask her eyes matching Alex's own.
"And your hair, it's so.. Radical." she smiled, "It suits you dear, keep it. Oh, and is that a Pentagast I see on your arm? She looks lovely."
I saw a soft smile on Cassandra's face as Alex flushed " Yes, she is and I..."

"Look at your face," Aunt Lucille was pulling out her handkerchief when I decided it was time to save him.

"Auntie. I didn't think you would have come, with your own soiree to plan," she wiped off Alex's face, much to his embarrassment.

"Oh pish girl, you know me I always love a good party and this is the biggest one of the year. I couldn't miss it for the world not when my favorite grand-niece and nephew are in attendance," She looked at Cullen who was still on my arm, being every bit the gentleman expected of an escort. if not a bit uncomfortable after that discussion with the duke.

"And is this the Commander? He is everything you have told me about... and more. So, were you born in Kirkwall?" she asked putting her handkerchief away. Her ice blue eyes meeting, Cullen's own. as though my aunt thought she could probe his spirit. "No, mam. Honnleath." he was calm, thankfully, under my great aunt's gaze. "Ah that's lovely, we must talk later commander about Ferelden life I am sure it was quite different than the free marches." She adjusted Alex's jacket, buttoning it around his middle. she never wanted us to look less than our best, regardless of our thoughts about the court. Cassandra seemed to be holding back her laughter, as he groaned. "Auntie I am sure Cullen does not want to talk about his past here in the heart of the game." I was doing nothing to save Alex from her keen eye for neatness, a Trevelyan never goes in looking less than his best as she would say. She glanced at Cullen before she continued, "Anyway, darling, I must warn you your father is in attendance tonight." Cullen flashed a look of disgust for a moment, his grip tight around my arm, before he remembered where he was, it was not safe to show his anger here. It was not a safe to show anything here.

It had been eleven years and I had grown since then, I would not let my father control me anymore, "Auntie, you know I have grown beyond caring for my father, are Eve and the little ones alright?" she was still going over Cullen most likely trying to find anything out of place on his uniform, "You worry too much darling I have that well in hand you have no need to worry. And he looks so nice, you made sure that he knows everything now?" she was probing, but at least she was being straight about it, "Yes, he knows." she nodded before she came to Cullen, adjusting his outfit, "Ah good, So Cullen I hope you enjoy yourself this evening since you do have my best grand-niece on your arm." Ok, now I was blushing, I knew it. Time to change the topic.
"I must warn you, auntie, you might be in for a bit of a show tonight. Someone is planning to assassinate the queen." She was straightening the boy's sashes, already treating Cullen like family. "Not a surprise, someone always wants to assassinate the queen. Anyone, we know?"
I was happy she approved of Cullen, my aunt always had this doting mother streak in all the time I have known her, "Not someone you can fight with words, But they are going to strike tonight."
She shook her head softly, "of course they are, it's obvious, all of your rivals for power in one place. One quick strike and poof, you have power. This is why I prefer Markham..." her eyes widened as she looked towards the fountain "Oh, and look, there is Lily! I simply must talk with her, I'll see you inside." my aunt strode off towards the fountains, the bustles of her dress ruffling behind her. our eyes followed her as she settled, chatting with a woman her age in a pale pink dress, Cullen glanced at me from her, "Are you sure you should read your aunt in on this inquisitor?" He muttered as we made nice with some of the guests passing by. "First I told you to call me Tara, Cullen. I may have rank now but I am still that woman you met back in Kirkwall. Also if anyone on the floor should be read in, it's my aunt, she is excellent at keeping a secret and getting information." she always made her interrogations sound like a conversation and if she could keep the fact her grand niece is the raven of Kirkwall then she could keep this, Cullen still looked unsure, "Are you positive, Inqui- Tara?" I love this man but sometimes he worried too much, "Yes, Cullen. Stop worrying," we walked into the foyer followed by my aunt who was still making conversation with Lily and one of the many dukes in attendance. Alex was right behind us with a wide grin on his face as he watched all the courtiers, with their eyes on the pair of us, "Yeah, don't worry Cullen. With the way, all the ladies are looking at you this evening. You will have no issue with playing the game." Alex said smiling running his hand through his fresh cut hair, still not used to it being short. I looked around noting, that some of the ladies eyes in the crowd were drifting places on Cullen, that if they knew what I could do they would entirely forget about. "Well they better know he's taken," I glanced at Cullen, he gave me a soft smirk.
"I'm sure they know that but then it has never stopped them before," Alex just had to be blunt.
I glanced at Cullen, he looked stiffer than before. The idea of a swarm of women around him... there might be some dead Orlesians this evening, just not the queen.

We entered the main hall waiting to be announced, Fennic had already drifted back to us looking pleased with the information she had gotten. hopefully, she would share it with the rest of us. The announcer pulled out his scroll as we followed Gaspard on our way through the procession to meet the queen, "And now presenting, Grand Duke Gaspard De Chalons..." Gaspard bowed to his cousin as the announcer continued, "and accompanying him, Lady Inquisitor Tara Adele Trevelyan, daughter of Bann Trevelyan of Ostwick, Vanquisher of the rebel mages of Ferelden, crusher of the vile apostates of the mage underground!
"this guy writes better fiction than I do" Varric muttered behind us Vivienne just nudged him in the side, "Just remember to smile this is all for show my dears." the announcer continued on my many accomplishments as Cullen and I stood there at the start of the hall, "Co-founder of Fennic and Larks Company and Champion of the blessed Andraste herself!" Gaspard chuckled under his breath, "Did you see their faces? Priceless!"
"accompanying the inquisitor:
Ser Cullen Stanton Rutherford of Honnleath, Commander of the forces of the Inquisition, former Knight-Commander of Kirkwall." We started forward Cullen was as nervous as he could be being there on my arm, "Keep calm and Smile Cullen. Imagine all of them in their small clothes." He smiled then, I could tell he wanted to laugh. it always helped me when I was little but, This is just one night. Thank the maker. Cause despite being used to this, I was just as nervous as he was, just keeping it in better... I hope. The last time I was here I was 5, visiting my grandparents, made a fool of myself in the garden fountain trying to get my doll back. Hopefully, this will better than then.
"Madame Vivienne, first enchanter of the circle of magi, enchanter to the imperial court, mistress to the duke of Gislain.
The Iron Bull, Leader of the famed mercenary company bulls chargers, as the name might imply.
Lady Eda Roswyn Yagas, Co-founder of Fennic and Larks Company, information, protection, and goods all at rock bottom prices.
Renowned author Varric Tethras, head of noble house Tethras, deshyr of Kirkwall to the dwarven merchants guild.
Her ladyship Mai Bhalsych of Korse" Sera chuckled under her breath,
"Seeker Cassandra Allegra Portia Calogera Filomena..." Cassandra grumbled, "get on with it!"
"Pentagast, fourteenth cousin to the king of Navarra, nine times removed, Hero of Orlais, right hand of the divine." Alex and Cassandra came down the stairs looking like they almost belonged together, "Alex Mortimer Trevelyan, cousin of the inquisitor and the Inventor of Treve's Magic Salve, for all of your magical burns and itches." he couldn't keep his eyes off her, good for them.
"Lord Dorian Pavus, Member of the circle of Vyrantium, son of Lord Magister Halward Pavus of Asariel.
the lady inquisitor's elven serving man, Solas.
Lady Liliana, Nightingale of the imperial court, Veteran of the Fifth Blight. Seneschal of the inquisition and left hand of the divine.
Warden Blackwall of Val chevin, constable of the gray and bearer of the silverite wings of valor And Lady Josephine Cherrette Montilyet of Antiva City. Ambassador of the Inquisition. "

It was time to meet the queen I could only hope this went well...


Of course, she didn't take us seriously. who would... 'yes you are the target of an eons old magister's minion who plans to kill you tonight.', and I couldn't even say it like that. non, ma mere would be very upset if I did. Cullen was keeping watch in the corner, leaving me to take down a swig of punch. time to get to business, I started towards the gardens, but not before I caught Josie talking to someone over by the dance floor banister, her voice got louder as I moved closer, "tell me, Yvette, how are mama and papa? are they in good health? do they want for anything?"

the young woman, Yvette, had a heavy antivan accent as she spoke, "Papa's perfectly happy in the studio, mother is the same as always."

Josephine smiled, "meaning she is after you to do more work."

"You always take her side." Yvette huffed, as Josephine shook her head, "I don't take her side I just happen to think as she does, that you could attend to more of the estate duties. Also, do stop slouching."

the young woman noticed me as I passed, "Josephine! oh Josephine, is this her?
Josie sighed " Inquisitor, please allow me to present to you my younger sister, Yevette Gabriella Montillyet."

So she has siblings... I looked at Josie, she for once seemed to not be enthused. I smirked this could be fun, "There can never be too many lady Montillyet's in Thedas can there?"

Her sister giggled "Inquisitor I have heard so much about you, but not as much as I want. Josephine always writes but she never tells me anything. Is it true? That the rebel mages in Redcliffe were performing blood rites and orgies before you stopped them?"

Josephine was aghast, "where did you hear such nonsense?"

"Everyone in Antiva says so. is it true?" Yevette was watching me intently, to hang on my every word. I couldn't help myself, "of course every word especially the parts where everyone was nude."

Yevette smiled, "I knew it!", her voice filled with adulation as Josie groaned at my humor. She gave me headaches it was my turn to give her some. I asked her sister the one question you never wanted to hear asked of family, "This may be my only chance to hear about Josie when she was a little girl."

Yevette beamed, "Oh! yes has she told you about the time when she was ten and-"

Josie was staying calm, so far, "Yevette stop."

Yevette pondered looking for another memory, "Fine, what about the time when we were climbing the cliffs by the -"

Another sharp "No" came from Josie.

Yevette came with another, "she once told the Duke of-"

"Absolutely not." Josie was losing patience.

"humph." Yevette grumbled before she whispered to me loudly, "She still plays with her doll collection when no one's looking!"

Josie was panicked then, "Yevette! That's... Absurd, Absolutely preposterous!"

Yevette was snickering at her sister's denial of her hobby, her panic making it absolutely true, But I should move on. "I'll see you two later." I waved as Josie's sister replied, "Another time." I slowly made my way through the crowd to where Sera had made her lair, covered with frilly cakes and generous helpings of punch.

Sera was talking to me the moment I reached her table, relaxed and excited in a room full of her favorite targets, "Crotch Rot, Beats his squire. He's a She. has a bastard. Extra toes. What a fun, close marrying crowd." I chuckled; happy to hear someone is enjoying this, "Making any new friends?" she laughed as well, "Not likely. I'm watching them watch you. they're all glances and titters. not sure if they are allowed to like you yet. Pathetic." I agree, entirely, to be honest, if I didn't promise my mother to be true to myself, I most likely would be like these people. Married to someone I hated with 2 kids for the sake of the family, Ugh just like my father wanted. At least Cullen... was not like that. He didn't want me for my name or title I am sure. Sera stared at me, I felt a bit awkward with her staring like she was trying to see what I was thinking, "Soo, Sera any thoughts on who we're investigating?" She shook her head and picked up one of the many frilly cakes she had proffered, "The empress is pretty, it'd be fun to drink and kill stuff with Gaspard. Briala is frigging funny. Elves, Elves, Elves, but really it's a pissing match with an old lover. Don't know the rest, but that explains a lot." she shrugged, "They're all lying, but Célene is nice to look at. good thing we are here to save her neck." I picked up a cake for myself, I had been so long since I have had a good frilly cake. the only thing I missed from my days as a girl... Sweets, "and any hidden treasures from 'friends' of your little network?" I muffled as I started on the frilly cake. "You mean do any of the servants ferrying tarts between these windy tits hate them enough to give up a stash or two? I'm not saying yes but" she paused in mock thought 'oh wait yes I am. there's some good stuff hidden around. Keep an eye out." nice, surprises. "be back soon then" I nodded picking up another frilly cake. she shook her head, muffling "not going anywhere." I smiled, good, "if you stop by the kitchens again get the chef's frilly cake recipe for me, these are addicting." All I could hear was her laughter as I walked off. I finished the cake brushing myself off first stop the garden very few people should see me there, and if I remember one of the trellises led to the upper sealed off level. I Just had to not be noticed.

I made my way towards the garden catching sight of Iron bull munching down on some of the snacks that had been provided, I took a detour making my way towards him past the gawking nobles, jesting at his presence here, I met his eye as he finished one of the nuts he had proffered, "You got anything that needs killing? because the nobles are messing with me and they think I don't know that they are doing it. this keeps up, I'm going to be wearing somebody's skull as my fancy little mask." I chuckled, that would be a sight, but no, "Not yet iron bull can you look at this with the eyes of a Ben-Hassrath for me, and tell me what you see." he looked around, "eh, it's a mess. everyone is trying so hard to hide that they're walking around in plumage, makes it tough to spot the dangerous lies, as opposed to the normal stuff." his eye glanced over at a couple on the far wall "Oh but that couple over there with the silver masks? the woman is doing one of the nobles and the guy is doing two different servants." I glanced around at the other courtiers in the hallway, "so nothing has caught your eye?" I asked hoping that he at least saw something, he just liked his lips, "They've got these candied nuts with some kind of spice on them. it's sweet until you swallow, and then Bam, Hot! Also, Orlais has some fine looking redheads I go more for the servants personally, Less Makeup." he was about to go on till he met my eyes, I definitely didn't have time to hear about his love life right now; maybe in a tavern later but not right now. " But uh nothing on the assassins though." I sighed, "alright I'll talk to you later, Bull."

He nodded "I'll just stay here and eat." No one here had any info hopefully the garden led to more... results. I walked out to the garden, Almost everyone was too busy in their conversations to notice me as I snuck to the back of it, feeling sorry for the roses as I tucked one side of my skirt into my garter, thankful no one was watching as I ascended. I still wish I could have had my boots not these ridiculous heels, most likely made for torture. I must not be gone long since it will be noticed if I was missing, damn notoriety and all being the herald….


I was about to descend when I saw one of the comtes eyeing the roses, Ducking behind the railing I waited, hoping he would leave soon. until I heard my Great aunt's calling his name, pulling him into a conversation. Thankful for her in that moment I descended before he could turn back to look at them, pulling my dress off some of the thorns when I reached the bottom. That was close, hopefully, no one saw the herald of andraste climbing on the queen's roses. I should see if the others spotted something, that was until, "Tara, Darling." My aunt joined me in the corner, "I must discuss an important matter with you" she glanced down at my skirt still a bit tousled from the climbing, " that's once you have cleaned up from your expedition in the study." I shook my head, of course, she noticed. "I take it you saw auntie, what is it you want to discuss?"
She gave me a meaningful look, handing me some punch. "I want to discuss your Cullen. Why is it after 10 years you have not asked for more from him, I mean he knows everything now. I would think my grand niece would know how to deal with this." I took a sip of the spiced punch, I was going to need it for this conversation, "I will not rush him, auntie, If he wants to wait I will wait," she shook her head, "Didn't your mother tell you to follow your heart, I know you know how to do it, sweetie. After all, All Trevelyan women know how to manage their men." We walked into the garden as she continued mothering me, "I mean look at my late fiancé," She fussed with my gown, still wrinkled from climbing the trellis, "Which one auntie?" She brushed off her gloves as I sipped my punch, "Oh yes we do tend to wear them out so. But it looks like your Cullen is in for the long haul. A bit sturdy perhaps." she gave me a meaningful look as she continued, 'after all if you do not secure him soon, I might consider myself a pursuer."
I gave her a wide grin as I pictured that… Hunt, "Auntie, He has only been formally courting me for a few months," She scoffed. "That has never stopped me dear girl… you are already 10 years invested, either close the matter or pursue another subject." She looked across the garden as I took another sip of the spiced punch, "Like that gentleman, He seems to have a large fortune and by the looks of him, he can dress himself." She had pointed out Dorian, "Odd facial hair perhaps but you could change that," I almost made a mess of myself with the punch from laughter. "My dear is there something wrong with your beverage?" She looked at me concerned as I pulled out my handkerchief, "Not at all Auntie," I coughed, trying to hide my smile with the small cloth, "I think I will go see if that gentleman will be interested in Conversation," she nodded taking some punch for herself, placing my glass on the tray, "Remember your manners dear and if he offers a dance take it."
Somehow I doubt that auntie I thought, I started walking towards Dorian hoping that none of the punch had gotten on my dress. He was eyeing one of the more fetching nobles when I had gotten to him, acting surprisingly relaxed for being here. He glanced over the man's body before turning to me, "This is all so familiar. I half expect my mother to materialize from the crowd to criticize my manners." I laughed thinking of the previous conversation; mine was here in a way already, "What if your mother were actually here? where would we be then?" He straightened his mustache, "Short one mage, as he is dragged out by his earlobe." I chuckled for a moment at that thought, a grown man being pulled out of the winter ball by his mother for ogling, "I am having difficulty picturing that." he scoffed, grabbing some punch from a passing tray "Then picture me a young boy of about 5 years then, she certainly always has." I smiled, he was relaxed, wishing I could be the same, "So, is this how the elite in Tevinter carry on?" I asked curiously, could be why he was so relaxed, "You could almost mistake this for a soiree in the imperium. The same double dealing, elegant poison, canapés... it's only lacking a few sacrificial slaves and some blood magic." he paused "but, the night is still young." I thought of the blood mages at adamant and the wild crazed looks they had filled with such power, a chill running down my spine at the thought, I needed a drink, grabbing some more punch, "Yes, well, if there is blood magic I am out of here. I have had enough of that for a lifetime."
Dorian glanced towards the hall, "At least you have a lovely ex-Templar here to protect you." he looked at me suggestively, Not him too, I tried to laugh it off and play coy as I sipped the glass, " I don't know who you might be referring to Dorian," He looked down at me obviously calling my bluff, our secret was the worst kept thing in the inquisition, I needed to change the topic before this became another 'why have you not made it official with Cullen conversation', "Have you seen anything I should know about, Dorian?" he glanced at the crowd sipping the punch as he leaned against the planter off to his side, "Besides the fresh shade of red on your cheeks or the overabundance of lavender perfume on the guests?" he paused, pretending to think "No, nothing, extraordinary. but I'll be ready for your signal, provided this spicy punch isn't as strong as it seems." I smiled, my tolerance after all these years had grown, this punch was nothing but, then they had to be drunk to let an ex-criminal and a Tevinter mage in here, "Still can't believe they let us in here with our reputations." Dorian gestured with his hand at the over the top gentleman across from us dressed in bright pastels, "Let us In, I am surprised they let that in. Did you see what that marquis is wearing? That suit is a greater crime than anything you have ever done."
I have always appreciated Dorian's honesty. I was so used to the double-dealing of the night that his presence here was refreshing, "Yes, well I still appreciate that you were willing to come here."
He threw his arms wide, the punch shaking in his glass, "And expose myself to all this exquisite finery and exotic wines?" He paused, bringing his arms into brush some dirt off his shoulder, "Such Hardship."
I shook my head, of course, he was enjoying this, "not everyone is likely to be friendly, that's all I meant."
Dorian's eyes met mine as I finished my glass, "It's true. you'd think I smelled of rotten cabbages, the way they wrinkle their noses." he drained his glass, before he continued, "It's of no concern, but thank you." I nodded I should be getting back to business, "Alright Dorian try not to get too drunk while I am gone" I smiled placing my empty glass on one of the passing trays, he swiped another drink, "You ask so much of me."

Varric was on the other side of the crowd, surrounded by a group of ladies, with books for him to sign. One even looks like the queen's handmaiden. I was not surprised at this point if the queen was a fan, "excuse me, ladies, I think the charming author needs a break. Even he needs to try some of the delicious food," I quickly led Varric away as his fans sighed, once we were far away from the ladies I grabbed two of the delicious canapés from a tray, handing one to Varric, "I hope I wasn't bothering you Varric it seemed like you needed a break," He looked up at me, "not at all," I handed him some punch as well, this place was not dwarf friendly, "So, Having fun boss? I always enjoy canapés while surrounded by people who want to kill me. "I smiled down at him taking a bite of my canapé washing it down with my punch," Oh, yes. I always enjoy fighting off my great aunt's questions about my relationships, are you having fun, Varric?"

Varric scoffed, "Ha, My brother used to throw galas like this in Kirkwall. I always tried to avoid them. I'm Not much of a dancer these days." I glanced back at his fans, "well it seems you have many admirers among the nobility, Varric. I will not be surprised If they do ask you to dance." I gave him another glass of punch, from a passing tray, "I didn't know my books sold so well in Orlais. I'm going to have a chat with my publisher." And I didn't want to be present if his tales of her were correct, "So, Have you heard anything I should know about? The girls must have done some gossip while asking you to sign their collections."

Varric glanced around before he replied, smart considering our location, "To be honest. Nothing much. but you wouldn't expect for anything to happen out in the open. Everyone is on edge, and it's not just that they're worried about the war."

That figures, "Alright then, we'll chat later just wait for the signal."

Varric nodded "Just give the word, Lark. And I'll be ready to move."


Wonderful I had met Briala and there is definitely more going on than we first thought, the servants quarters was filled with dead bodies and venatori... Figures. made my way quickly to Blackwall seeking some distraction.

for some reason he seemed to welcome my distraction as I pulled him away from the drunk noble, "I'm Ready for anything, just give the word."

Really? Good to know, "so what do you think about all the scheming and politics, Blackwall?"

Blackwall grumbled, "I think I rather be anywhere else. Let's save the empress and get back to where things make sense. Say what you want about Célene's ascension. She stole the throne? She seduced her way to it? who cares? In the years since she's proven she is the perfect mix of strength cunning and grace that Orlais needs."

Maybe his award sways him a little why has he not mentioned it? "so... Silverite wings of valor? what did you get that for?"

Blackwall looked away, "For" paused as though in deep thought "Valor." he doesn't remember or he doesn't know?, "Care to elaborate?"

Blackwall snapped, entirely unlike himself, "It was a long time ago. Back when we didn't stop to boast about past victories when there was an assassin on the loose." hmm... I want to know more but I am not going to push it right now.

"What's the word? seen anything yet?" he glanced at me "Nine different ladies and six gentlemen have asked Cullen to dance. I think he has received two offers of marriage." he nudged me "He might need a bodyguard" yes but i need to check with Cole first though. "alright then wait for my signal." as I drifted off towards the corner where I saw Cole muttering, despite our work he did this still from time to time, I moved close hearing, his soft voice murmuring, "The faces talk even when they aren't moving. silk on satin on skin, always wanting, chaste but chased, too many."

I placed my hand on his shoulder, "Are you alright Cole? you seem distracted. well more than usual."

he frowned, "they have faces behind their faces, lying with a layer that tells the truth. I don't know how to help them."

"To be honest I don't either Cole" he looked off towards the grand hall, his hands twitching, "What are you doing Cole?"

Cole paused still looking towards the hall, "A fallen Fan can cut like a kiss, hot breath from the wrong boy on the naked nape of the neck. I helped till they made me stop." Of course he did, "OK, have you observed anything happening yet?" I wonder if Cullen is alright? Cole looked down and glanced back to me, "Cullen is afraid. They're hunting him, following fear. He shouldn't be here." as always Cole struck to the heart of the matter, peering into my thoughts, but I was thankful for this probe for once. Cullen filled my mind, I shouldn't have left him alone. The court can be worse than those desire demons at the circle. I lifted my skirt to take off, "stay out of trouble Cole" I had no time to hear what he said as I rushed off to the grand hall to save Cullen from the vultures of the ballroom, Courtiers.

When I had arrived I saw that he was surrounded by them "smile commander, you look so beautiful when you smile" one of the ladies cooed as one of the gentlemen commented "and just as good when he doesn't"

Cullen was calm but stiff, this was definitely bothering him, his eyes pleaded when he saw me coming towards him, "Inquisitor!... Tara, Did you need something? the sooner we track down this infiltrator the better." The courtiers didn't know how to take Cullen's use of my name some were interested and others wanted to; most likely, toss me out right there, "You've attracted a following. who are all these people?" the group had him surrounded, I would be stiff too if I was in his position, but with what happened to him, he must have it worse, "I don't know, But they won't leave me alone." He told me a bit panicked, I slowly lead him away from the crowd of tittering nobles, anything to keep him from more nightmares. "so you are not enjoying the attention then?" trying to distract him. He looked back at the crowd I had retrieved him from, seeing one of the young ladies wave at him, quickly looking away as we watched the dancers on the floor. We backed into the corner, most likely to get out of the line of fire of the flirtatious girls, "Hardly, Anyway, yours" he cleared his throat and whispered, "Yours is the only attention worth having." his soft smile in that statement, I enjoyed it, the thought I could still make him smile after everything. after he knew everything. I sighed, how appropriate that we were here, together. my mother met father here, the father that loved her and his children...

"I don't suppose you'd save a dance for me?" the phrase just slipped out, did I want to dance? did he? "No, thank you," he replied solemnly
"Oh," I guess not, "No! I didn't mean to.. Maker's breath! I have answered that question so many times I'm rejecting it automatically." he looked embarrassed, were we anywhere else I am sure he would be rubbing the back of his head by now, " I'm not one for dancing, The Templars never attended balls."
"I was not one for attending balls either, last time I was here I was 5 and lost my doll in the garden fountain. Instead of asking for help, I jumped in and got it myself. leaving my dress soaked and a very unhappy Nanny." I smiled with him as we watched the dance, "I guess I should check out those rumors, hopefully, you can find some enjoyment tonight." I drifted towards the hall watching him return to his 'post'. hopefully feeling better than before.


I watched her as she glided across the floor with Florienne, why did I turn her down. I am sure I could learn. "Tell me commander are you married?" one of the more forward younger women had asked, not that I had not rebuffed her several times already, "No" I glanced back a Tara, "but I am already taken." Sadly, she was deterred by this looking like for the nth time she was going to ask me to dance, I was thankful when I heard, "Excusez moi s'il vous plait, May I borrow the commander" It was Tara's Great Aunt. Thankful for the excuse to get away from the throng of tittering nobles.

"Pardon me," I said following tara's great aunt as far as possible from that nightmare. I still was not sure what was worse, the desire demons, or them. we were in the farthest corner of the ballroom before she turned to watch the dance, "Is there something you wanted to speak of lady Trevelyan?" I asked. She glanced at me behind her silver mask before her eyes returned to following Tara's graceful movements on the dance floor, She slipped her mask off and her mood changed,"Yes, what are your intentions towards my Grand niece?" her serious tone after all of her gossip this evening was a little unsettling, "Honorable I assure you." she gave a sharp nod as she dusted off some parts of her masque, I noted the soft embroidered flowers at the edges, like the frills of her personality earlier that evening, "Good, she has had so much pain in life she deserves happiness wherever she can find it." she glanced over at the proud man over in the corner, he had his hands behind his back giving Cullen a piercing gaze before turning back to the dance floor, following Tara's every step, "Sadly her father…" She looked back at me, as I thought the man in the bronze mask was her father, "He fails to Acknowledge that." I watched her father as he turned back to a comte and a younger man, "Yes, I heard. He does not approve of me." the piercing gaze he had aimed at me all evening could have told me that.

"He never does unless he has picked them" she adjusted her glove, " and if he does, she rebuffs them." she sighed for a moment "She deserves a dance here."

"Why? I cannot Dance."

"this is where her mother first met my nephew." That explains why she looked disappointed after she left, but she never mentioned it, "I wish I had met her mother, she sounds like a wonderful woman." Lady Trevelyan glanced at me, "yes, she was, Tara is very much like her mother. with her attitude, humor, and not much love for the grand game."

"I don't know about that mam, she seems quite at home here."

she shook her head, "that's not her, that's the raven. Tara is the one behind the mask." she turned keeping her Piercing blue eyes on me, "Ser Rutherford, How much do you know about orlesian masks?" I kept my eyes on her great aunt, "Not much I'm afraid mam," she nodded as though I confirmed her suspicions, "you see, they believe that you should never show your true self; your face, except to those you trust." she started fiddling with the ribbon of her mask, "so what you mean to say is when she is behind that mask she is a different person?" she smiled turning back to watch her grand niece, "no, no She is still the woman who loves you. She just developed this personality when her mother passed. A kind of shadow of herself," she sipped her punch,"But when she got free of her father, she needed to separate those parts of herself, to be truly her. Thus the raven was born and the means to keep her true face."

Her eyes went to Tara for a moment before She straightened her dress "Now I must fix this. Come for a moment commander."

"Where are we going?"

"We are going for a short dance lesson." she smiled, I saw where Tara got her grin.


After the announcements of the alliance and knowing Briala was appeased, Everyone was finally starting to relax, I even spotted Alex leading Cassandra out to one of the balconies, I hoped it went well as they both deserved something good in this mess. I had to take care of Duchess Florienne right there in front of the entire court. I couldn't let her weasel her way out of attempted assassination and treason. I looked down at my mask, I needed some time to myself, Thankfully the tittering nobles were too enraptured by the night's scandal to notice me sneaking out to one of the other overlooks.
I noted a presence off to my left as I exited the hall. "The orlesian nobility make drunken toasts to your victory, and yet you are not present to hear them?" it was Morrigan, I followed her with my eyes as she made her way next to me, "do you tire so quickly of their congratulations, inquisitor? 'tis most fickle after all your efforts on their behalf." not their behalf, never them, this was for Thedas. if not for this I would not have killed that woman, I would not be here. But justice had to be done and I was the only one to do it. put on your mask for a few more minutes Tara, then you can be human once more. I shook my head clearing my thoughts, "Would have stayed, but the punch ran dry, scandalous."
She let out a laugh at that, "Indeed? let us see if you take this piece of news as poorly." she fiddled with her glove." By imperial decree, I have been named liaison to the inquisition. Celene wishes to offer you any and all aid, including mine, Congratulations"
Lovely. I knew enough not to ask questions, I was tired of all of this, and any questions I had can wait til later, "Welcome to the inquisition then, Morrigan." sighed just wanting it to be over.
"A most gracious response, I shall meet you at Skyhold" she nodded and made her way from me, not that I was relieved to see my father striding through the doorway.
"We need to talk, daughter," he spat holding back his rage, at least being here at the palace was good for something.
I shook my head, "Father if you want to talk to me then talk but please Take the mask off. It doesn't suit you. your face is stony enough as it is." it was the same mask he wore with my mother, and he was no longer that loving man, he was unworthy of it.
The glare that came from his cold blue-green eyes as he took off the bronze mask.
I knew this look the last time I saw this was right before I got my scars, "How could you! Stabbing the Duchess right in the middle of winter palace! This is not how justice is served!"
"She was trying to kill the queen and When has justice ever been pretty, father? It had to be done, you told me that once. You remember? Quand tu m'as donné ces cicatrices!"

"Vous osez m'accuser de ne pas être juste, I gave you every chance to come back redeem yourself but now Any chances you had are now ruined!"
He never could see the truth of it, could he? "Any chances you gave me father were not chances at all, Just prison sentences under different terms!"
He didn't give me time to continue, "Enough, I'm Done with you. Consider yourself no longer my Daughter, no longer a Trevelyan."
"I am more a Trevelyan than you think, Maybe One Day you will see that," I said as he replaced the mask, the mask he wore with my loving mother. "Walk in the Maker's Grace, Bann Trevelyan," I sighed as he made his way off the balcony, leaving me to my thoughts. I was free of him, finally. But then why do I feel so empty? I got what I wanted but, I just wished He had just apologized and accepted that I was who I was. instead, he wanted to be rid of me, I looked down at the mask, will there ever be a day when I will no longer need to hide? I was exhausted, It had been a long night even without this and morgan's aid in future. I heard soft footsteps from behind me, "There you are..."
"Cullen, you don't need to pretend I am sure you heard."
"Yes, I did, are you sure you don't want to interrogate him?"
"Why to see if he has more ammunition? Josie and Liliana are free to if they want, but..." he put his arm around me softly, "Thank you, Cullen, but like he said he was done with me and I'll leave it at that." He was beside me now, wiping my tears. why was I crying? I should be happy. the flow ebbed as I wiped my eyes. He pulled me close "well things have finally calmed down for the moment, is everything else alright?"
"I'm just a bit worn out... tonight has been very long." I glanced at him his face was calm with a twinkle of concern in his eyes."
"For all of us, I'm glad it's over.", even though he said that I Could not stop thinking about everything that has happened. who ever thought fate would lead me down this path... soft romantic music started playing in the ballroom, Cullen turned to glance back at the hall, "I know it's foolish but I was worried about you tonight." I wished I had something to say right now, just something to say that I will be alright but...

We heard clapping from the ballroom in response to the music, he got up from the edge to look at me and smiled softly, "I may never have another chance like this, so I must ask."
he bowed slightly and offered his hand to me, "May I have this dance, my lady?"
Really, here?
"of course, I thought you said you couldn't dance?" I accepted his hand as he said, "Tara, for you, I'll try."
He put his arm around my waist. We were so close as we started to dance. It was awkward at first, I could tell he was new to this, I wondered to myself who taught him as we chuckled and tripped over each other. Eventually, we settled into a rhythm, twirling around the empty balcony in a simple, fluid dance. The feeling of his hands entwined with mine filled me with warmth. As we spun and swayed to the music I couldn't help but watch his face, it was peaceful for once in a long time we could just, be. we slowly drew close to one another. I leaned against his hard chest and rested my head on his shoulder. our dance came to slow stop as the music ended. but I couldn't part from him. he seemed to be the one steady thing that was in my life all these years. I looked up and met his amber eyes, they shined in the soft moonlight, he looked into the hall for a moment, no one had noticed us. They all seemed to go on as though nothing had happened a half hour ago.
he leaned into me he took my lips, his kiss, slow, gentle. Maddeningly sweet. And was over far too quickly.


Notes:


Translations:

Empress, pourrais-je avoir un mot en dehors, s'il vous plaît? - Empress, could i have a word outside please?
Quand tu m'as donné ces cicatrices!- when you gave me these scars!
Vous osez m'accuser de ne pas être juste!- You Dare accuse me of not being just!