It was a warm, sunny day in Lothering, rays of gold overlooking the small slightly dilapidated town, accentuating their every nook and cranny. Lana loved it here. It felt more like home to her than anywhere her mother and father had fled to in the past. Lothering was peaceful, calm, away from all the bustle of the industrial cities like Denerim. It was endearing and welcoming and the best place to find gossip in all of Ferelden, given its position on the main Highway linking both sides of the country together. If there was one thing Lana could change about it though, it would be the number of Templars. They were every where, spread throughout the city like a virus, routing out apostates wherever they lurked.

Of course one apostate had thankfully stayed under their radar. Bethany Hawke lived on the outskirts of Lothering with her family and had so far successfully eluded the Templars gaze. Lana couldn't help but feel as though that was about to change though. Her little sister was playing with fire. It would only be a matter of time before she got burnt. Lana couldn't help but get angry at her for the danger she was placing them all in. An apostate running loose in the town, that was one thing. But an apostate hanging around the Chantry, making friends with Chantry sisters, that was another. Sixteen years old and she still didn't have any sense. Lana was frustrated. Their mother worried frantically about her daughter when she left on days like this to visit a so called Chantry Sister. For that reason she had sent Lana, the eldest of the family, to pick her up and bring her home after every visit to go and hear this Sister's stories and songs.

Lana couldn't make sense of it herself. Sure, stories were interesting sometimes, and songs? Well why not? Still, it wasn't something to risk your freedom over, or your life. Lana preferred to wait out the time in Lothering's 'fine' establishment on the edge of town and have a few drinks with various friends while she waited for Bethany to finish. Today though, Leandra her mother had ordered her to go directly to the Chantry and pick Bethany up, scolding her after she found out Lana had been drinking and having fun instead of watching over her younger sibling as she walked into the lion's den. Today would be the first time Hawke would meet this Sister, and of course she was very excited (not!).

Lana loved religious people...when they weren't preaching, singing the Chant, damning others into oblivion, or asking people to donate coin. So, in other words, she absolutely loathed them. Why should this Sister be any different from the numerous other drab Sisters of the cloister? The only thing Lana thought was endearing about them was that they were all chaste and virtuous. Forbidden fruits were sweeter than most...but still forbidden. Even so, a girl could dream right? Each time Lana's mother had dragged her to the Chantry to keep up their charade of avid Chantry-goers with nothing to hide, she would simply let her mind wander after spotting a lovely young initiate who had caught her eye. Today, she would meet another one, but whether she would be lovely remained to be seen.

Lana turned the corner and entered the Chantry courtyard. As usual there were Templars stationed on either side of the doorway, each giving off the same vibe: no one goes in or out without our permission. Even though Lana was no mage herself, she always got shivers when she walked past them. It was as though she anticipated they would somehow find out her family's dark secret and prosecute them all for it, sending Bethany to the Circle of Magi while doing Maker knows what with the rest of them. They could try all they wanted though. Lana would give her life to keep her sister out of the Chantry's grasp. They had already lost their father Malcolm. Hawke wouldn't let anything else tear them apart.

Lana pushed open the Chantry doors and entered the so-called sanctuary. Funny how all she ever smelt when inside Chantry buildings was the stench of repression. If this was classed as a sanctuary, she would rather spend her days in prison. At least the motive of a prison was clear. You were there because you had messed up. It didn't hide under the pretext of redemption like the Chantry did. Making her way up the aisle, Lana scanned the large hall for any sign of her sister Bethany. Maker where is she? The cool chills that crept up on her in the Chantry were unsettling and she could never wait to leave. Suddenly she heard the sound of a familiar baritone coming from the side door of the building which led to the Chantry Gardens. Curious, Lana followed the sound and soon she spotted Bethany walking across the grounds, a red-headed woman in Chantry robes strolling along beside her, speaking fluently as though telling a story. She could hear her sister's laughter at her words. Lana made her way towards them.

"I see you're having fun, Little Sister," she said as she approached. Bethany and the Chantry Sister turned to meet her as she walked across the garden path to where they stood.

"Lana? What are you doing here?" Bethany asked, surprised her sister had dragged herself away from the tavern and walked voluntarily into the Chantry. Lana threw her a pointed smile.

"I'm here to...make sure you're alright, remember?" she said, tossing a glance in the red-headed Sister's direction, referring to the promise she had made their mother about keeping her safe. Bethany smiled back, grasping her meaning.

"I'm fine," she said cheerfully. The only good thing Lana could say about her sister's weekly Chantry visits was that she always seemed so happy afterwards. "This," Bethany continued, gesturing to the woman on her right, "Is Sister Leliana. Leliana this is my older sister, Lana."

"It's so nice to finally meet you, Lana," Leliana said, holding out her hand. "Bethany has told me so much about you."Lana grasped it, immediately becoming entranced by the woman's smooth accent. It sounded Orlesian, but very delicate, captivating. She could instantly see why Bethany kept returning here to hear the woman's stories. Lana could have listened to her speak all day and she had only heard her say a few words so far.

"Charmed," Lana replied, keeping her face straight. I think that's the first time I've said that to a Chantry Sister. There was something about this woman that was...No. She is still part of the Chantry. That alone made Lana reluctant to return her smile."I hope my sister hasn't been giving away all my secrets."

Sister Leliana chuckled. "Of course not, in fact she was just telling me how much she idolised you. Now that I've met you, I can see why."

Lana smiled uncertainly then, her eyebrows coming together slightly. She had a sneaking suspicion that this Sister was not as innocent as she wanted people to believe. Subtle or not, Lana was certain she had just flirted with her a little.

"Is that so?" Hawke asked, her eyes twinkling, "Well maybe I should have stayed at the tavern then. I obviously don't give off an accurate first impression,"

Bethany and the Sister giggled. "Oh I doubt that," Leliana said. "On the other hand, I am eager to see what I have apparently missed out on. Maybe I could join you there later?"

This time it was Lana's turn to chuckle. Sister Leliana was not just some mere cloistered Sister. A silver tongue like that was a gift that came with charm and class, all of which this women had in abundance. Lana found herself intrigued. Bethany was staring from Lana to Leliana in confusion, not fully understanding why there were both eyeing each other like a spider eyeing a fly. Truth be told, Lana didn't understand it either. This Sister was very hard for her to read.

"That would be...interesting," Lana answered carefully, "I didn't know Chantry Sister's even knew where the tavern was."

Bethany threw her sister a look of warning, hearing the mocking tone Lana used which some construed as rude. Sister Leliana began to laugh however, untroubled by Lana's jibe and ran her slender fingers through her short red hair, flicking it lightly from her face. "I was not always a cloistered Sister, you know. And I think I can find my way there from here. Let's say...seven?"

Lana bit her lip, considering the invitation. She could see this Sister's need for...an escape maybe? And she had to admit that the woman had peaked her interest. But her mother wouldn't be pleased if she was caught having drinks with a member of the Chantry. Maker only knew what she would let slip. Lana's mother didn't trust her judgment when she was drunk and she certainly wouldn't want both her daughters frolicking with Chantry members, however nice they seemed to be.

"I...that sounds appealing, Sister, but I think I will have to decline," Lana said carefully, "I'm busy tonight. I won't be able to make it to the tavern." She saw Sister Leliana's face fall slightly. She couldn't tell whether or not the woman knew it was a lie.

"I understand. Maybe some other time?" she asked hopefully. Lana hesitated. She could see Bethany stare at her worriedly, knowing what she was thinking.

"Maybe," she replied, trying to sound more apologetic than rejecting.

After several seconds Sister Leliana nodded. "Of course," she said, sounding a little sad. "Well I must return to the cloister. The Revered Mother will be wondering where I am."

"Aww," Bethany groaned, "Will I see you tomorrow?"

Leliana smiled, "Hmm," she said, "We'll see, pretty." She reached out and touched Bethany's cheek affectionately. Bethany smiled back at her. The Sister turned to Lana then. "It was very nice to meet you, Lana. Hopefully I will see you again soon?"

She ended her sentence on a high note as though expecting an answer. Lana, not knowing how to respond, simply nodded and smiled.

"And you don't have to worry about your sister when she is with me," Leliana added, "I'll look after her."

Bethany smiled at the Sister in admiration. It was clear that even though she was a mage she felt comfortable around her. Lana couldn't wait to leave though. She felt as though everything she said had the potential to blow up in her face. She forced herself to smile once more at the Chantry Sister's declaration of protection. Leliana then said her final goodbyes to Bethany and made her way inside. Lana reached out and took her little sister's hand, leading her hurriedly out of the Chantry Gardens. The two Hawke's then began the long walk back home.

Hawke could hear Bethany hum a song under her breath and she could guess that it was probably one Leliana had taught her. She had to admit she herself was intrigued by this woman. Never before had she believed a Chantry Sister would have the gall to ask her out to the tavern. And never before did she think she would ever consider accepting. Something about this woman was mysterious and Lana found herself wanting to discover what it was. She knew there was no way she could meet her though. The Hawke family already spent enough time around Templars and Sisters as it was. Any more time and they might as well join.

"So, what stories did Leliana tell you today?" Lana asked as they walked through the mountain pass which led to their little home on the outskirts of town.

"Oh, the usual, tales of Orlais, her time as a minstrel. Did you know that in Orlais the women wear shoes with delicate tapered heels?"

Lana shook her head, "I didn't. They sound quite hard to walk in though don't they? So that's where this Sister's from then, Orlais?"

Bethany nodded, "I think so. She has the accent and she talks about Orlais often enough. It sounds wonderful, Lana. I would love to see it."

Hawke smiled and put her arm around her little sister's shoulder. "Well, maybe we'll go sometime," she said. Bethany looked up at her excitedly.

"Really?"

Lana nodded, "We'll see. I'll talk to Mother about it."

Bethany smiled her cute little smile, her big brown eyes full of hope and eagerness. Then she wrapped her arm around her eldest sister's waist as they walked back home together.

That night Lana had agreed to meet a friend of hers at the Lothering tavern. She dawned her prettiest looking dress and applied some of her mother's make up, spending a few hours in front of the mirror putting it on. Bethany was eager to help so Lana let her style her hair, using heated tongs to straighten it. It was hard to do it yourself without burning your hand and her little sister had an eye for that soft of thing.

"Who are you meeting?" Bethany asked as she flattened the last few bits of Lana's dark brown hair.

"Umm...no one," Lana replied, avoiding her eyes.

"No one?" Bethany repeated sceptically, "Am I to believe you're going to all this effort to drink alone?"

Lana sighed, "Ok," she relented, "I'm meeting...Allison."

"Allison? As in my friend Allison?" Bethany asked confused. Lana nodded, still not looking at her.

"Well why didn't you tell me?" she asked, "I could have come."

"No!" Lana blurted out, getting to her feet instantly, "I mean, you could have but...Mother needs your help," she finished weakly, hoping Bethany wouldn't force the issue. Her sister sighed in disappointment. Hawke hated deceiving her like this but tonight was meant to be a private dinner between her and Allison. They had been flirting with each other none stop and tonight was supposed to be...well, a good night. She couldn't have her younger sister along as an unknowing third wheel.

"I'll tell her you said hello," Hawke said. She kissed her sister on the cheek in thanks and patted her arm before leaving the house.

"Don't be late!" Her mother called after her.

"I won't!" Lana replied over her shoulder.

The dinner with Allison was excruciating. The woman jumped every time someone in the tavern spoke too loudly, so much that she had gotten more wine over Lana's dress than in her mouth. Lana knew the woman was nervous but this was just taking the piss. She was regretting this the longer it went on. They hadn't even made it through the first course yet.

"I'm so sorry!" Allison exclaimed for what seemed like the fifteenth time. She reached for another napkin from the table and made to blot the red wine from the front of Hawke's dress. Funny how she always managed to spill it over her breasts. It was a little too often to be a coincidence. Lana grabbed the cloth from her, frustration getting the better of her now.

"I got it!" she snapped, before Allison could rub her hand along her again. Hawke had a feeling the woman was doing it on purpose. The last time she had scrubbed the stain there so hard that she thought her nipple was about to get sanded off. She could feel her temper rising at the sad attempts Allison was using a pretext for touching. Maker's breath, what ever happened to holding someone's hand across the table or running your foot seductively up their leg underneath it? Allison looked taken aback at Lana's rudeness and her face fell. This date clearly hadn't gone as planned.

"I'm sorry," she said again as Lana gently soaked up more red wine from the neckline of her dress.

"Please stop apologising!" Hawke replied irritated. Maker's breath if the woman says 'I'm sorry' one more time I'm going to throttle her! She sighed angrily as she took in the massive stains on her best dress. They were never coming out now. She could feel Allison watching her, wondering what to do next. All of a sudden the woman lunged. Hawke looked up in horror as Allison threw herself across the space between them and kissed her full on the lips.

After several seconds of shock Lana put her hands on Allison's shoulders pushing her away. She stared at her open mouthed.

"I'm sorry!" Allison said embarrassed, "Was that not ok?"

Lana held up her hands protectively and tried to just process what had just happened. After several seconds she was still lost for words. Sure, that would have been ok, on say, a successful date. Was there any part in Allison's mind which had thought this had gone well? Lana shook her head to bring her back to her senses.

"I'm...um...I think I'm going to go get another drink," she said, getting to her feet. She walked to the bar quickly before Allison could offer to help her. Hawke squeezed between the patrons and leaned over the counter, still trying to process Allison's kiss. Maker's Breath! The woman had absolutely no tact. She had no idea how to enact intimacy without spilling wine over someone's dress. It was so cliché. Lana felt like vomiting. Originally she had been attracted to Allison and was looking for a good time. Now though, she was just looking for an escape.

And then it came.

"So...you weren't so busy after all then."

Lana spun around. To her complete amazement, there standing in front of her, was Sister Leliana. Hawke's mouth fell open. She was lost for words and suddenly became aware of her wine stained dress. The Chantry Sister was smirking at her, waiting for her to save the obvious lie she had told her earlier that day.

"I...," Lana stuttered.

Leliana raised her eyebrows. "Yes...?" She seemed to be enjoying watching Hawke, who seemed to have forgotten how to speak.

"I was busy," Hawke finally said, "I mean...I am busy."

Leliana chuckled and then took in Hawke's ruined dress, her eyes lingering particularly on the most recent stain along her breasts which were still glistening with wetness. Hawke was sure it was becoming almost see-through.

"I...can see that," she replied, trying to contain her laugh. "Are you...having some trouble?"

Just then Allison closed in. Sister Leliana and Hawke turned to look at her as Allison pushed her way in between them both and wrapped her arms around a bewildered Hawke's waist.

"There you are Lana!" she said, trying to wiggle her way in between them, "I was wondering where you had got to, sweetie."

Hawke cringed. Sweetie? Then, realising Sister Leliana was staring at her expectantly she reluctantly wrapped her free arm around Allison's shoulder and tried to smile as though she was having a wonderful night.

"Nope, no trouble" she replied to Leliana's question. The Sister threw her a skeptic smile, glancing at Allison as though asking 'Really?Her?' Lana tried her best to keep a smile on her face as though she couldn't see anything wrong with the woman who was desperately clinging to her. Suddenly Allison began to laugh mockingly.

"What are you doing speaking to a Chantry Sister, Hawke?" she asked, making a face. "I thought you were interesting at least."

Sister Leliana exhaled, clearly offended.

"Allison this is-"

"Yeah, I don't care!" she interrupted rudely, giving Sister Leliana a look of disgust, "I don't like Chantry preachers...and why am I explaining this to you Lana? You hate Chantry folk more than anyone I know!"

Hawke cringed. Maker, Allison is on a roll tonight! Before Hawke could reply Allison had dragged her back to their table, barging past Leliana in the process. Lana glanced back at her, regretfully. The Sister had taken a vacated stool by the bar on her own. Hawke couldn't help but notice how sad she looked. It was an odd sight to see on the face of the normally cheerful, charming woman who her sister had so often spoke about.

Suddenly Allison's lips claimed Hawke's attention again. Her hands clasped onto either side of Hawke's face and turned her towards her as she tried to create some passion between them. Lana could feel her untrained tongue try to force its way into her reluctant mouth and pushed her back again, feeling like she was going to be sick.

"Andraste's ass!" she exclaimed, wiping the saliva from her mouth.

"What's your problem, Hawke? I thought this was what you wanted!" Allison asked, looking offended now.

"It is!" Hawke replied, "But I had planned on getting through dinner without you covering me in wine and sticking your tongue down my throat every chance you get."

Allison looked angry. "Fine then," she said, "Let's talk about something instead."

Hawke listened as Allison jumped into some story about her family's basement being infested with rats. She drank her wine, waiting on their second course to arrive, pretending to be interested in the woman beside her. To be honest though, Lana was loosing interest by the second. Her eyes kept glancing up at the Chantry Sister who was sitting alone, nursing a goblet of red wine. She just looked so lonely. Everyone in the tavern seemed to be avoiding her because of the Chantry robe. It almost screamed out "I am a bore" to them all. A few times Hawke watched as men approached her, becoming entranced by her pretty face and curves, before walking the other way as soon as their eyes caught her robe. Sister Leliana seemed oblivious to it though. She sipped her wine slowly, her eyes pouring over a book the bartender had left for her.

"Hawke are you even listening to me?"

Allison's annoying voice pulled Lana back from her thoughts. She turned back to her date and smiled as best she could.

"Of course, please continue."

By the time the meal had come, Hawke had lost her appetite. She truthfully wanted nothing more than to leave. To be honest, her desire for sex at the start of this night had completely evaporated thanks to Allison. Unable to take any more Lana excused her self and walked to the water closet. Sister Leliana was gone she noticed, as she walked past where the woman had been sitting. In her place sat a few men from Redcliffe whom Hawke had met on occasion. She nodded kindly to them and then went to relieve herself in the ladies room, taking as long as possible.

As Lana made her way reluctantly back to her and Allison's table a hand suddenly reached out and grabbed her arm. She turned surprised, expecting a fight, which would have normally been the case. Her anger evaporated immediately as she saw who had touched her. Sister Leliana had not left at all. She had simply moved herself to a small rickety table for two, which was hidden from most of the tavern.

"So, are you still busy?" she teased. Lana stared down at her. She was sitting with her legs crossed, a small book lay face down on the table in front of her, opened at a page. Her goblet of wine was empty. Hawke stepped back out of her touch. It had sent shivers up her spine.

"I am," she replied firmly. The Sister stared at her curiously.

"With Allison?" she asked with a smirk, "I got the feeling she wasn't exactly your type."

"She's more my type than you are," Lana replied coldly, gesturing to her Chantry robe. This whole night had been a disaster. The last thing she needed was a Chantry Sister making fun of her. The Sister's face fell at her harsh words.

"I'm more than just a robe, Lana," she said sadly. "I am a person too."

"Not to me," Hawke replied firmly. "I have no interest in Chantry Sisters...or The Maker himself for that matter. They have both caused me nothing but trouble. My life is better off without either of them in it. Good night, Sister."

Hawke went to walk away. Before she could Sister Leliana got to her feet. She reached out and grabbed Hawke's hand this time. Lana looked down, seeing Leliana's soft fingers intertwined in her own. She realised the woman was only a few inches from her. Reluctantly Lana looked up, meeting the Sister's blue eyes.

"Give me a chance," Leliana pled softly, "I am not like the others."

Just then Allison appeared again. She saw Hawke's hand in Leliana's and gave the Chantry Sister a look of fury, seeing how close they were.

"What do you think you're doing?" she demanded confused. Hawke jumped as Allison's voice screamed in her ear. She pulled her hand from Leliana's and stepped back. Before she could reject, Allison took her hand in her own calloused ones, holding her tightly as though she belonged to her.

"You need to stop interrupting us, Sister!" She said to Leliana spitefully. The Sister apologised then. She threw Hawke a momentary glance before returning to her seat defeated. Hawke was torn. Should she give this woman a chance, or return to her disastrous date with Allison? As the annoying woman tried to press her lips against hers once more, Hawke realised she'd had enough. Allison had had her chance. Hawke pulled back and tore her hand from Allison's claw.

"Our dates over, Allison," she said firmly. Sister Leliana looked up in surprise. Allison looked confused and a little hurt.

"What?" she exclaimed as though having misheard what she said.

"Oh come on!" Hawke blurted out before she could stop herself. "I mean, did you actually think this date was going well! Look at the state of my dress! I smell like the inside of a wine cask!"

"I already said-"

"Sorry?" Hawke interrupted. "Yes you're right Allison. In fact to my knowledge you said "Sorry" about fifty times tonight. It has been driving me up the bloody walls!"

Allison looked stunned. She opened her mouth and closed it as though trying to think of something hurtful to say back.

"I...You know what? Screw you, Lana! It's your loss. Spend the rest of your night with this Chantry virgin! We're finished!" she screamed. She turned away and walked towards the door slowly as though expecting Lana to follow and call her back. Hawke wasn't looking at Allison any more though. Suddenly, she became captivated by Sister Leliana's piercing blue eyes. Her mind was made up.

"Alright," Lana said to her. "My night seems to have gotten a bit less busy. You have your chance, Sister."

Leliana smiled, looking happier than she had done all night.

"Thank you," she said graciously. She gestured to the chair opposite hers to Hawke who accepted. "Would you like some wine?"

Hawke looked down at her dress then. She saw a small smile playing on the corner of the Sister's mouth as her eyes travelled over the red stains once more. The offer had been genuine but she was sure there was a joke there somewhere too.

"Please," Hawke said gratefully. "It's been a very long night."

Leliana gestured to the bartender for two more wines. Both woman stared at each other across the table. Hawke was glad it was in a more private location. What would the people say if they say her sitting with a Chantry Sister?

"So..." Leliana began, "That was a...date, was it?"

"A catastrophic one," Hawke corrected. This seemed to please Leliana.

"Bethany... never told me you were interested in women," she said curiously. Lana shrugged, unable to ignore how attractive this Chantry Sister before her was.

"She doesn't know," she replied, throwing a cheeky grin before raising her goblet of wine to her lips. Sister Leliana chuckled. They observed each other for several seconds, each trying to figure the other out.

"Why do you want to be my friend so badly?" Lana asked suddenly. Leliana had gone out of her way more than once tonight to try and speak to her. It made Hawke suspicious. No one ever showed this much interest without an ulterior motive, and it usually involved her family. Leliana dropped her gaze and tilted her head to the side, shrugging slightly.

"I don't know," she said, staring into her goblet of wine. "There's just...something about you, Lana. I find myself drawn to you."

"But you're a Chantry Sister," Lana replied confused.

"I'm a Lay-Sister," Leliana corrected. Lana became even more confused. "It means I didn't take vows," she added. "I came to the Chantry seeking safe harbour a few months ago and... after the storm passed, I just did not want to leave."

Hawke was surprised at this sudden revelation. "Safe harbour from what?" she asked. Leliana looked up at her and hesitated. Lana could see pain in her eyes.

"Let's just say I had plenty of reasons to join the Chantry...and leave it at that," she answered sadly. Hawke could tell she was hiding something but let it drop. It wasn't any of her business. They both had secrets after all.

"I must admit, you are the first Chantry Sister I have seen in the tavern," Lana said. "I was surprised earlier today when you invited me."

Leliana chuckled. "Yes, your sarcastic little comment said as much."

Lana cringed, "I apologise if I was rude," she said, "My sarcasm sometimes gets misread."

Leliana laughed again and shook her head, "Don't worry. I enjoy a bit of banter. Life in the Chantry can be so dull sometimes."

Lana nodded in agreement. "I try to stay away from it a much as possible. The tavern is one of the only places I can come to get away from Chantry goers."

"Is that why you lied to me then?" Leliana asked. "To keep me away from your tavern?" Hawke's jaw tightened. She had a feeling this would come up again.

"No," she replied truthfully, "I lied because I didn't want to offend you, and I declined your invitation because I have no interest in anyone who is part of the Chantry."

Hawke's words seemed to hurt Leliana. "I understand," she replied sadly. Lana shook her head and got to her feet then, realising she was contradicting herself by even being here with her.

"Maybe this was a bad idea," she said, wishing she hadn't of sat down now. As she went to walk away Sister Leliana got to her feet and grabbed Hawke's hand again. She made her way around the small table, until she was standing in front of her.

"I once felt the same you know," Leliana said, staring into her eyes, "About Chantry folk. I did some unspeakable things against the order, believing myself different from them. But then I found myself here and realised...we are not all the same, Lana."

"And exactly how are you different from the others?" Hawke asked sceptically. She had heard these words before but nothing ever proved otherwise. Leliana looked up at her, her blue eyes darting back and forth at each of Lana's brown ones. Suddenly she leaned in closer and slowly placed her lips on Lana's, bringing her other hand to her face and caressing it gently. Hawke was too stunned to respond. She had already been kissed a few times tonight against her will but this was different. Instead of retreating, she felt herself respond, opening her mouth a little wider as Sister Leliana's tongue ran along her lips asking permission. Hawke brought her hand up to Leliana's cheek, her other still held in the Sister's hand. As wrong as this felt, Lana couldn't pull back if she tried. The two women kissed passionately, hidden from the rest of the goings-on in the tavern around them.

After several irresistible minutes, Leliana stopped. She rested her head against Lana's, her eyes closed. Both of them were exhaling heavier than usual, feeling the warmth of the others breath on their face. Hawke couldn't believe what had just happened. That was possibly the most intoxicating kiss of her life. And definitely the most forbidden. She ran her hand along Leliana's cheek, neck and then down along her arm. The woman didn't move, still resting her face against Lana's.

"I shouldn't have done that," she whispered. Lana pulled back then and took the Sister's face in her hands, staring deeply into her eyes. Leliana reluctantly looked at her. Hawke could see tears build in the Sister's eyes at her betrayal of the Chantry.

"Why did you then?" Lana asked gently. She could see the woman fighting with her conflicting thoughts and feelings.

"I wasn't born in the Chantry, Lana," she said softly, "As much as I try to tell myself I am a part of it I just feel..."

Hawke's eyebrows narrowed. That same empty look appeared in Sister Leliana's eyes once more. She tore her gaze from Hawke's, avoiding her questioning stare.

"Lonely?" Lana finished. Leliana's eyes flicked towards hers again and Hawke saw the truth. Sister Leliana nodded as best as she could with Hawke's hands holding her face. Hawke then ran her fingers through Leliana's red hair affectionately, brushing it from her beautiful pale face.

"Then what do you want to do?" she asked in a whisper. Leliana stared at her for several seconds, considering. Then she leaned in and placing her lips on Hawke's once more. Lana kissed her back eagerly, a soft groan of pleasure escaping her lips as the Sister bit down hard on her bottom lip. Their bodies pressed together, their bosom's heaving as they passionately lost themselves in the moment. Hawke felt the Chantry Sister's hand travel down her body, along her curves, cupping her pointed breast before running down along her abdomen towards her navel, and then continuing further. As she felt the woman's slender fingers rub her throbbing womanhood through her dress, Lana suddenly came back to her senses, realising they were still in the crowded tavern.

"Wait!" she said, after pulling her lips reluctantly away from Sister Leliana's. Leliana pulled back as well, her impatience having gotten the better of her. "Not here," Hawke continued, "Let's go somewhere quieter."

"That's probably best," Leliana agreed, running her hands through her tussled hair to flatten it. They had both got completely caught up in the moment and forgot who and where they were. A Chantry Sister having sex with a Hawke woman in the middle of a tavern would bring them both unwanted attention. They both finished their wine quickly and left a few coins on the table in payment, before exiting the tavern together.

The night was bitterly cold, especially to Lana who was only wearing a thin dress. Leliana, on the other hand, was in a thick Chantry robe. Seeing Lana shiver, she placed an arm around her shoulder, drawing her close as they made their way through towards the outskirts of Lothering. Hawke place her arm around the Sister's waist, stealing some of her body heat.

"Where are we going?" she asked, realising she was following Leliana. The Sister chuckled.

"I know a place," she answered.

Leliana led them towards the bridge before pointing east to the windmill in the distance. Lana looked at her surprised.

"There?" she asked incredulously.

"Trust me," Leliana replied, winking at her.

The two of them made their way towards it. As soon as they were far enough away from the main part of town, Lana reached down and took Leliana's hand. She began to run with her towards the windmill, feeling the cool breeze burn her lungs. Leliana chuckled, allowing herself to be led across the field by Hawke, holding her hand tightly. There was a certain freedom to running through the open fields together, the only light coming from the stars above. They both knew what would happen if they were caught, but it only seemed to make both woman want it even more. The smooth swipes of the windmill sails beckoned them closer towards a night they would undoubtedly remember forever. Hawke pulled open the door and dragged Leliana inside before anyone spotted them.

The moonlight was shining through the opening in the roof, showing up the straw which littered the floor of the windmill house. The two women stood facing each other, holding hands, trying to catch their breaths from the run. Hawke could feel her heart pounding in her chest as she gazed into Leliana's eyes. The Chantry Sister smiled at her, tugging her arms gently to bring her closer to her. Their lips met again then, sensual and tender. Lana continued her momentum forwards after Leliana's gentle tug and walked the Sister back towards the wall, pressing her body into hers. They held each other's hands, fingers playfully wrestling with the others. Hawke started to direct Leliana's in between her thighs once more, encouraging her to pick up from where they left off in the tavern.

The Chantry woman obliged, giving into Lana's demands. Hawke could feel the hem of her dress being raised, smooth, cool fingers sliding up her bare leg, driving her crazy with anticipation. Leliana's lips left hers then, and began to kiss along her collarbone, her soft tongue tasting the saltiness of Lana's skin as her fingers pleasured her, soothing the throbbing below but also making it ten times more sensitive. Hawke couldn't stay quiet any longer. She closed her eyes, lost in the overwhelming sensation of this woman inside of her. She pressed herself harder up against Leliana as her legs began to tremble.

Leliana giggled in her ear, knowing her touch was driving Lana crazy. She nibbled her earlobe before resuming kissing her neck. Lana's entire body went into spasms then. She cried out loudly, clutching Leliana's robes in her hands. Leliana then led Lana to the ground. She pressed her weight down on her, allowing her legs to straddle Hawke, and resumed kissing her again. Hawke ran her hands up the inside of the Chantry robe and pulled it up, eventually over Leliana's head. The Chantry Sister gasped loudly as the cold assaulted her naked body. Lana looked up at her, admiring the fullness of her breasts and her perfect, slender body. Her hands ran along Leliana's thighs on either side of her before exploring along the woman's scarred abdomen and up over her pointed nipples. Leliana gasped once more, covering Lana's hands with her own, manipulating them to do her bidding.

Hawke wasn't able to stand it anymore. She reached up and rolled Leliana over until she was on top of her instead, bending down to kiss her once more. Suddenly she noticed her breasts spill out of the top of her dress. She hadn't even felt Leliana loosen it before and was surprised by the woman's subtly and skill. She had clearly done this before. Leliana pulled the dress down along Hawke's curves as she lay above her. Hawke shook it from her ankles and their naked bodies pressed together for the first time. With nothing else in their way, Hawke placed one of her legs in between Leliana's and used it to pleasure her, making slight thrusting movements above her. She could feel the wetness of the Chantry Sister on her leg, her desire festering and throbbing in her loins as her arousal increased, brought on by Lana's touch. Hawke then pulled her lips from Leliana's and ran them down along her body, tickling along her abdomen with her tongue before passing the thin layer of red hair below and burying her face between the woman's legs.

"Hawke?"

Lana could taste the sweetness of her lover, savouring the woman's juices as she pleasured her.

"Hawke!"

Leliana called out above her, lost in passion, her body writhing on the cold, straw covered ground.

"HAWKE! WAKE UP!"

Lana jumped up in her bunk, wakened from her dream. She smacked her head on the bunk above with a sickening crunch, forgetting where she was.

"OW!" she exclaimed, her hand covering the bump now forming on her skull. She screwed up her face in pain. Suddenly she heard a woman laugh beside her and turned to see Isabela through her watery eyes. The pirate was standing in her room in Gamlen's house her arms folded under her massive breasts as she chuckled at how Hawke had reacted to her calls.

"What in Andraste's name are you doing here?" Lana asked, annoyed more at the interruption of her dream than anything else. It had been such a good dream. Isabela scowled.

"Nice to see you too," she said, confused at Hawke's tone, "Is everything alright?"

"Apart from my head?" Hawke asked angrily. "Yeah, everything's fine...Sorry, I was just...having a good dream, that's all."

"Clearly," Isabela said, staring down at Hawke's underpants. Hawke looked down, realising her cover had fallen away when she jumped up. There was a wet stain on her underpants brought on by her memories of sex with Sister Leliana back in Lothering. Hawke groaned and threw the tattered sheet over her again, blocking her underwear from Isabela's view. Isabela chuckled, seemingly pleased with herself.

"Oh, I love wet dreams," she said excitedly, "You can tell me about it later at The Hanged Man."

Hawke rolled her eyes. "Not a chance, Bela. Since when did we become the type of people who share dreams?"

Isabela chuckled. "But wet ones, Hawke! Maker, don't be such a killjoy!"

"You only want to learn what turns me on," Hawke teased. "How did you even get in here anyway?"

"Bethany let me in. The Big Girl needs to see you. She let me out of the brig on the condition I would send a message to you, so here I am!" Isabela stated, bowing slightly with an at-your-service gesture. "Good deed for the day done."

Hawke sighed, "All right," she said, still massaging her head, "WE shouldn't keep her waiting. I'll get dressed and we can go and meet her." She got up out of bed and allowed the sheet to fall, walking over to the wash basin in nothing but her bra and panties. Isabela relaxed against the cupboard, smirking to herself as she admired the view. Hawke felt her burning gaze and turned to her then. The pirate was looking at her longingly. Seeing Hawke was watching her she retracted her focus from her ass and held up her hands in surrender.

"All right, I'm going!" she stated, as Hawke gave her a stern look. She straightened up off the cupboard and walked towards the door, opening it. Hawke began to search for some clean clothes to wear under her armor.

"Oh, and Hawke?" Isabela poked her head back into the room, taking one last sweeping glance at the woman's curves. "Nice ass by the way."

The pirate threw her a huge grin and a wink before leaving the room, closing the door behind her. Hawke shook her head and sighed. She couldn't help but chuckle as she resumed getting changed, thinking about the busty pirate Captain and her never ending wit. She thought about what Bethany had told her last night. It was clear Isabela liked her. Everyone knew it and the woman made it no secret. But then again who didn't Isabela like? Still though, she didn't seem to put as much effort into the game with others as she did with Hawke. Whether that was just because Hawke was a challenge remained to be seen. One thing was for sure though, Isabela wasn't going to give this up easily. She was determined to break Lana's resistance to her charms. But Hawke could anticipate her every move. They were both experts when it came to this sort of thing, and the game they had been playing, had only just begun.