Over the next few weeks, Talia found herself busier than normal. The Inquisition found new ways for her to use her talents, sending her among the scouts when needed. It was after a quiet sweep through the hills that day. Nothing but the local wildlife had come into view. It was just...quiet. Something hung heavy in the air that day, heavy with purpose. She had no idea what it was until she returned to Haven.

People were tense. Eyes darting around to catch everyones movement. Even someone's breathing seemed to be enough to set off a wave of paranoia.

Did the breach widen again? What is happening? Where are the Chargers? Bull? Talia's eyes scanned the training area looking to see if she could find any faces she knew. There were many people there at least, though none were familiar until she saw the Commander looking over a report. She had continued to avoid him, at the request of both Leliana and The Bull, though in a place as small as Haven, it was hard to do.

She moved to his side , waiting for a moment before speaking. She didn't want to startle him, nor did she want to interrupt. She opened her mouth to speak, but he spoke first this time.

"Talia, there you are. Anything to report?"

"The valley is quiet, not a person in sight."

"Good. We have one less thing to worry about then. Now we just wait for the Herald to return."

Talia tilted her head, "Return?"

Cullen gritted his teeth, "The Herald went to Redcliff."

Mages. The herald chose mages...well, shit.

Another messenger approached and handed the commander an official looking report. Cullen took the message and his eyes widened as he read it.

Talia couldn't help it she asked, "What is it, Commander?"

"Reports of some Templar. They are headed this way, but they move as though they are fleeing something." His eyes looked up from the paper to hers and stopped. The moment hung in the air, heavy with purpose and something else. "How fast could you make it to the base of the peaks?"

She looked past him to the stables, "Faster by horse."

Cullen nodded, his gaze shifting over her face once before he looked away. "Take mine."

She nodded and moved, stepping past him, and only stopping when she felt a hand on her arm. She turned in one movement to face him again. Too close. He is too close. "Commander?"

"I can't send anyone with you." his voice softened slightly, "Just come back."

Talia smirked as he let her go. "I always do."

His smile faded only after she rose off, replaced by a quiet prayer for her safety.