AN: Hey everyone! I know my posting schedule has been all kinds of crazy lately! We just moved into a new place and then my computer crapped out so I haven't been able to work on this at all! Please, oh faithful and marvelous readers, forgive me! I love you all and I pinky promise to have the next chapter up in 1 week or less! 3

Chapter 13

Unexpected Reunions

{-Ellaina-}

"You were alive this whole time and you never even once thought to send a letter?" Ellaina's fury ran rampant as she slammed her fists down on her desk. Maker's breath this headache isn't helping me think clearly.

"Ella you know I couldn't have done that. You are in a high position of power now and I couldn't risk finding you before the Conclave. You know I'm telling the truth. If Father and Deana found out they would have never sent you to the Conclave. They were supposed to send Erle anyhow."

"And the mighty Trevelyan's risk their spare? You must think I've become daft over the years brother."

"Quite the contrary sister, I know you have become very wise. However you must know that Erle was not in good standing with Father after he failed to protect us all at Starkhaven."

"It wasn't his job to protect us. It was mine. I was an officer I should have seen the attack coming and planned accordingly."

"Sister you know as well as I that you were in no position to supersede Knight-Commander Khristopher's orders."

"To the Void with the Knight-Commander's orders! I knew the attack was coming but I chose to sit by and do nothing! I was given bad orders and I knew it, yet I followed blindly just like any good Templar should! We could have protected all the mages and the other Templars in that tower. Then the few who survived would have never been sent to Kirkwall. We could have saved Bryanne! Dammit Everett don't you see?"

"Ella, the time for regrets is gone. You fought bravely, and if not for your actions no one would have made it out of that Maker forsaken place."

"You shouldn't even be here Everett. I saw your face as I cut you down, watched as the life slipped from your eyes. You shouldn't…." Ellaina's head was pounding and her mark refused to stabilize as her emotions ran wild.

"Perhaps an explanation is in order then." Everett said as he put a hand on her shoulder.

Ellaina looked at her brother with confused eyes. You plan to explain the dead coming back to life? This ought to be good brother.

"I wasn't at the tower that day."

"Now this, I have to hear." Ellaina replied, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

"The Knight-Commander sent me to Kirkwall. They needed someone to infiltrate the Circle without being detected and I was in the best position to do so. I had been a spy for the Order for some years, that's mainly why I never got a promotion. I had become friends with one of the elven mages who was skilled in shape shifting, old Dalish magic I guess. Anyhow, she had been studying this mysterious artifact. A mirror that could change your appearance."

"I remember that artifact. The Knight-Commander was concerned that it was a corrupted eluvian."

"That's the one. It turned out to be quite useful for operations where I was needed to be in two places at once. One of the new recruits was given the assignment to be 'me' while I was away. We used the mirror to change his appearance."

"What of your charges?"

"The Knight-Commander kept an eye on them along with the young man. They were taken care of."

"You would think that the Knight-Commander would have told me about my own brother getting involved in something dangerous like that."

"I requested he didn't involve you."

"You what?" Ellaina exclaimed.

"Frankly sister, we didn't need you asking questions. You would have found out at the debriefing anyway. The Knight-Commander would have dealt with your fury then."

"Andraste's sacred knickers Everett, do you have any idea how much danger you were in?"

"Yes, I'm well aware."

Ellaina pondered this knew information as she massaged her temples. Her headache was only going to continue to grow as Everett fed her new information. "Did Erle know?"

"No. No one save for the Knight-Commander, the recruit, and I were informed."

"Maker's breath." Ellaina sighed.

"There's something else you should know."

What else could there possibly be?

"The Knight-Commander never officially expelled you from the Order, and next to Cullen you're the highest ranking officer in all of southern Thedas."

"Why are you telling me this?" Ellaina was exasperated.

"Because the Templars need a leader when all this is over. They need to rebuild."

"Don't you think you're putting the cart before the horse Everett? The Order is dictated by the Divine's wishes and we are sadly lacking one of those right now. Not only that but I still have to defeat the thousand year-old Darkspawn Magister trying to take over the world and become a god. Or did you forget that tiny detail?"

"I understand that, but do you really think that a new Divine would just get rid of the Templars?"

"I concede your point."

"At any rate, after Corypheus is defeated the Inquisition's actions will have a great deal of influence over who the Grand Cleric's appoint as Justinia's successor."

"You think so?"

"I do. At any rate, that's not why I'm here. Now that you've gotten your explanation it's time we move on to more pressing matters."

"Serious as ever, Everett. You and Cullen will get along famously."

"You think so? I admire him a great deal. I have ever since we met in Kirkwall. He's a good man, Ella, and he's lucky to have you."

"Thank you."

Everett paused to consider his next words. "Mother would have loved him."

"I know. I still miss her."

"Me too sis."

Ellaina shook her head to keep the tears burning in her eyes from spilling over against her will. "At any rate, how do you suggest we deal with Camden?"

"I have a few ideas actually."

"Let's hear it then." Ella was seated at her desk now as Everett laid out his plans before her. He had come prepared, aps that included servants' quarters entrances to the Adair estate, safe houses for the family all across the Free Marches, recent tax documents that could easily be forged, and an immense amount of information on their day to day lives.

"I suggest we send some of your agents in to kidnap Gabrielle. She was always a voice of reason amongst that family. They would be more than willing to comply with your wishes if-"

"No, I will not get the Inquisition involved in my personal affairs."

"Ella, your people were ambushed, you and Cullen almost lost your lives. The Inquisition is involved already whether you like it or not."

Ellaina sighed. "I'll talk to Leliana, but I still think we should confront them directly, appeal to the family with connections or coin."

"That won't get the Crows off your back."

"Leliana said she has a plan for that."

"Then I suppose we should speak with her."

"I need to talk to Cullen first. It is his life on the line here."

"Fair enough. I'll meet you in the war room." Everett turned to leave as Ellaina went back to her work. "Ella."

"Yes?"

"Try to take care of yourself. I'm worried about you."

Ellaina sighed. "I'll be fine Everett. Feel free to explore Skyhold while you're here. Just don't get lost."

Everett shook his head and smiled. "I'll take that under consideration sister." With that, he left Ellaina's chambers.

Too distracted to focus on her work Ella left her desk and went to sit on her balcony. Maker's, sweet and utterly holy, balls, what's next? She was frustrated, confused, and depressed. She didn't know how to put all the pieces together anymore. She'd thought she killed her own brother just to find out he was alive and unharmed. She felt responsible for the attack on their caravan out of Halamshiral, and relieved at knowing that she was never officially expelled from the Order. She was worried about Cullen, and about how her actions could influence who sat on the Sunburst Throne. On top of all that was Corypheus. How would she be able to fight a Darkspawn Magister and save the fucking world if she couldn't even figure out her own issues?

"Dammit Ella, pull yourself together!" She smacked the hard stone railing with her fists. Her head, neck and shoulders ached. She had felt her headache spreading while she was talking to Everett. She needed rest but there was no time. Every moment she wasted was an opportunity for the Crows to plan another attack. She had to make sure Cullen was safe and the only way to do that was to make sure she was able to be with him when he was most vulnerable to attack. She left her seat on the balcony and strode out of her chambers in search of her love.

{-Cullen-}

Cullen stood watch outside Ellaina's door, not meaning to eavesdrop on her conversation, but not being able to avoid it either. I guess the vocal volume runs in the family. Cullen thought. He was glad that Ellaina was considering his opinion when it came to this, but something caught his attention whilst he was pondering all this.

"There's something else you should know. The Knight-Commander never expelled you officially from the Order, and next to Cullen you're the highest ranking officer in all of southern Thedas."

"Maker's breath, that's a lot to take in." Cullen mumbled to himself. Cullen's stomach growled and he realized he hadn't eaten yet that day. He was on his way down the hall toward the kitchens when Cole popped up beside him.

"She told you not to go anywhere alone."

"Andraste's mercy, Cole! What have I told you about sneaking up on me like that?" Cullen had drawn his sword instinctively to face his 'attacker'. He'd been on edge ever since Halamshiral, which was understandable to say the least.

"Sorry. You don't want her angry at you so I came along to help."

"That's true." Cullen said as he sheathed his sword. "But next time can you make it a point to give me some kind of warning?"

"I did. I didn't try to make my steps soft. I think you were distracted." Cole replied as he grabbed a bowl full of crushed mint and a wheel of cheese.

"You have a point." Cullen claimed some bread, leftover turnip stew, and a couple of sweet rolls from the table.

"There you are!" Ellaina entered the kitchens, worry etched into her brow. "I thought you were standing outside my door?"

"I got hungry." Cullen replied simply

"Maker's breath, Cullen, I ordered you not to go anywhere alone!"

"He's not alone." Cole stepped out from behind Cullen. "I came with him."

Ellaina breathed a sigh of relief, and her facial features relaxed. "Thanks Cole, I appreciate your help." She said as she too grabbed some bread and turnip stew. "Shall we?" She beckoned toward the great hall.

The trio walked into the hall and found a few seats not too close to the gossiping nobles, but not hearing their conversation was impossible.

"Has there been…an exchange?"

"You're awful!"

"Not that! Gifts, or perhaps betrothal!"

"Of a sort. Very romantic."

Cullen looked across the table at Ellaina who was blushing and avoiding all eye contact, pretending not to notice what she just heard. This, in turn, made the heat rise in Cullen's face. Betrothal? Obviously they don't realize we're at war! Maker's breath. Looking at Ellaina's face, however, Cullen began to doubt himself. She was obviously embarrassed, but there was also an undeniable twinkle in her eye. Cullen tried to shake the thoughts from his mind. Now was not the time for that. Eventually, perhaps.

"Cullen!" Ellaina raised her voice.

He shook his head, forcing his mind to come back to the present. "Uh-um, yes Inquisitor?"

"You were dazing off. Is everything alright?" Ellaina's features showed worry yet again.

"Yes, I-uh, I was just thinking about this afternoon's combat exercises." Cullen lied in hopes that she wouldn't prod any further.

His lie seemed to work, which was odd. She was never fooled by his 'training exercise' excuse. "I should learn to expect that from you. Always thinking about work." She said with a small smile. "Now tuck in before your food gets cold."

He gladly heeded her order, although he was worried. She had been acting strangely for quite some time now. He wondered if his suspicions were true as she dismissed herself from the table.

"I'll be back. I'm going to go talk to Barris. I need to make sure the arrangements for your guard are in order." Ellaina seemed distant, as if she was talking to the air and not anyone in particular.

"It won't be necessary Inquisitor. I can take care of myself."

"I'm well aware of your prowess in battle Commander, but you are not well armed against assassins. You can hardly handle yourself when Cole pops in to the room." She said with a small chuckle. It wasn't genuine though. The laugh didn't spread to her eyes and her brow was still furrowed with worry.

"Hearing that, I suppose I concede your point."

"Good I'll go make the arrangements."

As she strode out of the hall Cullen looked down at her place across the table and realized she had barely touched her food. Cole had disappeared while they were together but soon walked back and sat by his side.

"She still isn't eating." Cole seemed upset at himself. "I brought treats for her and even asked the cooks to make her favorite stew, but she still won't eat."

"How long?"

"Three days." Cole said then he seemed to be pulled towards someone. "Insides on fire, constantly aching, a hole in my chest. A void that was never supposed to be filled, reunited but confused. Can't shake these chains. Why? It's so much harder this time. Fear for him, clawing at my skin. My fault." Cole turned to look at Cullen. "She's confused and hurting but I can't help. She won't let me in. You're the only one who can."

"How, Cole? How can I help her?"

"She needs something to distract her. Riding or adventuring used to help but now she's afraid to leave you. She has a pearl of fear and anger in her heart and I can't shake it loose. She's going to get worse soon if we don't help."

"I think I have an idea. I'll do all I can, Cole."

"You will. That's good." Cole stated before he disappeared.

{-Ellaina-}

"How embarrassing." Ellaina was still trying to shake what she had overheard in the great hall. Stupid nobles. Always trying to rush things. I doubt he's even interested in getting married.

While it was true that she had fantasized about the idea on several occasions, she knew it would likely never come to pass. Besides she had too much on her mind right now to lose her focus over such drivel. It was ridiculous! She was acting like a lovesick child.

"Inquisitor?"

"Oh, Barris! You surprised me!"

Barris cocked an eyebrow at her, "You asked to see me ma'am, and told me to wait here."

Ellaina blushed and rubbed her neck in embarrassment. Once she realized what she was doing she quickly withdrew her hand. Maker's breath, now he's got me doing it! Returning her attention to Barris she replied, "Yes of course! We needed to continue our earlier discussion of the modifications to guard rotation."

"Of course, Inquisitor. With the imminent danger to the Commander we have doubled the guard near his office, as well as increasing the frequency of guard patrols on the battlements. We are fortunate some of the Templars volunteered."

Ellaina nodded her head as she acknowledged the changes Barris was showing her on the paper.

"I do have a request, however."

Ellaina looked up from the paperwork, "What is it?"

"You are in danger as well. I would request that we increase your personal guard as well. At least until the imminent danger has passed."

Ellaina rubbed her forehead. It made sense, but she her personal safety wasn't what really mattered right now. Then she remembered she had meant to ask Cullen to spend his nights in her quarters for a while so she could watch over him. "Shit."

"Inquisitor?" Barris cocked an eyebrow at her sudden outburst.

Ellaina shook her head in an effort to shake the clouds and ache that had settled in her head.

"That sounds fine. I thank you for your concern." She replied as eloquently as she could.

Barris nodded his agreement as he rolled up the papers and passed her a request for approval on the new guard rotations. As she signed he asked, "How long?"

"Excuse me?" Ellaina lifted her head.

"How long since you stopped taking the lyrium?"

She rubbed her eyelids as she tried to remember. "Since before Halamshiral, I know that."

Barris nodded, his face held a solemn expression. "Does anyone else know?"

"Only Cassandra, and I would prefer it remained that way. This isn't the first time, but it will be the last."

Barris nodded once again. "I respect your courage. I'll not inform the Commander, but I would advise not keeping this from him."

"I'll take that under consideration. Thank you for everything." She replied as she took her leave. Instead of ascending the stairs into the great hall again she decided to take the scenic route by the stables. Perhaps a visit to Dakota would do her some good. Ellaina was lost in thought when something bumped into her leg.

"Oh!" A small voice exclaimed. "Inquisitor! I'm so sorry!"

Ellaina looked down to see a small girl clutching an even smaller teddy bear. It was ripped near the arms and was missing one of its eyes.

Ellaina smiled immediately and kneeled so that she was at the same level as the child. "What's his name?" She asked.

"Cornelius." The little girl replied. "I've had him ever since I was a little baby.

"I see. He's been through a lot then." She said.

"Yes ma'am. He and Dada kept me safe when we fled Haven. Mama was at the Conclave." The little girl's eyes sparkled; Ellaina couldn't help but feel there was something familiar about them. She was so full of life for having lost so much. Ellaina looked carefully at the little girl and noticed that she was dirty, her clothes were torn, and her shoes didn't fit anymore.

"You're very brave." There were tears burning behind Ellaina's eyes. "What's your name?"

"Bryanne, ma'am."

Ellaina's jaw dropped from shock as the tears fell freely.

"What's wrong? Why are you crying?" Bryanne looked upset.

Ellaina couldn't reply, the floodgates had opened and there was no stopping them. Bryanne stepped forward and wrapped her arms around Ellaina's neck. Shel had placed Cornelius in her lap. The small bear did provide a subtle comfort. It was enough to stop her persistent tears from falling any longer.

"Would you like to come with me?" Ellaina wiped the tears from her cheeks and she held her hand out for Bryanne.

"Where are we going?" Bryanne clutched tight to Cornelius.

"Well first off, I think Cornelius could benefit from a healer. And I'd like to get you some new clothes and warm food in your belly."

Bryanne took her hand and nodded. "That sounds wonderful. Thank you, Inquisitor."

"You can call me Ella."

"Ok, Ella."

Ellaina picked up some thread from the surgeon's tent and they walked toward the stable-side entrance to the kitchens.

"Why were you crying earlier?" Bryanne asked her.

Ellaina hesitated. "Your name. It's the same as my little sisters."

"Oh! She must be very lucky to have you for a big sister! Where is she now?" Her enthusiasm permeated the air, making it hard for Ellaina to be sad. It had been over a decade now, after all.

"She died a long time ago."

"Oh. I'm so sorry."

"So am I. I wish I could have protected her better. I wasn't a very good big sister." Ellaina wasn't sure why she was pouring her heart out to this tiny girl.

"I'm sure that's not true. I can tell you're a very caring person. I see you running around a lot. You're always checking on the wounded soldiers and tending to the horses. You bring treats to the other children too. I'm sure you were the best big sister ever."

Tears stung behind Ellaina's eyes again. "Thank you."

They had arrived in the kitchens and Ellaina poured Bryanne a bowl of stew. It smelled delicious but her appetite was nonexistent lately. She placed the bowl in front of Bryanne, along with a large hunk of fresh bread and some cheese.

"Mmm! This looks amazing!" Bryanne's eyes sparkled as they took in the feast before her. She bowed her head and prayed her silent thanks to the Maker before digging in.

Seeing someone so small with such strong faith brought a light into Ellaina's heart. Maybe the Maker's hand in things wasn't as distant as everyone wanted to believe. Ellaina grabbed Cornelius and began stitching his arm back together as well as mending a couple of other small tears along his various seams. This little girl, who shared the same name as the sister she missed so dearly, had walked into her life. She showed strength and faith so large for such a small being it struck a chord deep within Ellaina's soul. Her personality was so similar to her Bryanne that it was almost eerie. She had lived with guilt over her sister's death for so long. Even though she had been told countless times by countless people that it wasn't her fault she had never been able to forgive herself. Yet this little girl, who knew nothing of her or her past mistakes, told her that it wasn't her fault. That she was kind and caring and made an amazing big sister, and for the first time, Ellaina believed it. It was as if the Maker had allowed her Bryanne to come through for a window of time to tell her that she forgave her. She wiped away the fresh tears as she finished her work on Cornelius.

"There." Ellaina held up the tiny bear. "Now all I need is a button for his eye. I think he would like to see again don't you?" She asked Bryanne.

"I think he would!"

"Would you like some sponge cake?" Ellaina asked as Bryanne finished the last of her meal.

"Yes please!" Ellaina gave the little girl a piece of sponge cake. "Mmm! It's so much better when it's fresh! Thank you Ella!"

Ellaina beamed with joy. "Come with me. I have some extra buttons up in my quarters as well as some clothes I think just might fit you."

Bryanne took Ellaina's hand again as they walked toward the great hall. The guards posted to her door saluted her and one spoke up. "Commander Cullen has requested your presence in his office at your earliest convenience, Inquisitor."

"Thank you, Soldier." Ellaina replied. The soldier nodded as she opened the door to her quarters.

The two of them ascended the stairs and Ellaina told Bryanne to sit down while she drew up a bath. Ellaina marveled at the plumbing. It was a luxury she was not accustomed to, but one she was never ungrateful for. Josephine really put her heart and soul into this place. The pipes were enchanted with fire and ice runes to make it hot or cold depending on which faucet they came out of. Sometimes Ellaina allowed herself to marvel at magic, but not often. She was all too often reminded of how magic had stolen away much of what she loved. She had to remind herself, however that magic had brought many wonderful things into her life.

"It's ready!" Ellaina yelled out to Bryanne before stepping out to get a towel for the young girl. The sound of giggles made her pause for a moment. "What is it Bryanne?" Ellaina called from the bathroom

"Oh it's nothing! The Commander sure is adorable though!" Bryanne replied.

"What are you talking about?" Ellaina called as she walked into the room. Bryanne was reading a letter at the foot of Ellaina's bed. The box that held all of her correspondence to Cullen was opened so she knew exactly which letter she was holding. Some of the content was surely not appropriate for Bryanne to be reading.

"Oh my goodness you two are adorable!" Bryanne giggled again.

Ellaina blushed fiercely. "Bryanne! You shouldn't go digging in other people's things without asking! It's rude!" She was stern despite her embarrassment.

"I'm sorry Ella, I got bored."

"It's ok. Just don't let it happen again ok?"

"Ok. I promise." Bryanne's eyes were downcast but she still had a smile on her face.

"The bath is ready. You'd better get in there before it gets cold." Ellaina smiled at her. "I'll get you something new to wear and bring it into the bathroom ok?"

"Ok. Just make sure to knock first!"

"I will." Ellaina replied with a giggle.

Ellaina opened her wardrobe and picked out a dress that was much to small for her and got to work. She was glad she had paid attention when her mother had taught her how to sew. It was one of the few things her mother had gotten to teach her before she died. Ellaina had left the wardrobe open and after she finished altering the dress she had found she looked up at her old Templar armor. The time would soon come for her to don that armor again, but the tightness in Ellaina's chest was not as fierce as usual when she thought about it. That was a good sign right? After her duties as Inquisitor were over it was her responsibility to rebuild the Order that she had originally devoted her life to.

Ellaina knocked on the bathroom door. "I have your clothes. May I come in?"

"Hold on a minute!" Bryanne called from the bathroom, and Ellaina heard splashing coming from behind the door. "Ok, you can come in now!"

Ellaina walked into the bathroom and saw Bryanne sitting on the side of the tub wrapped up in a towel. "How was the bath?"

"It was great! I can't even remember the last time I had a hot bath!"

"I'm glad you enjoyed it. You didn't have to get out so quickly though!"

"It's alright! I didn't want to waste your time!"

"Bryanne, you're not wasting my time!" Ellaina said as she presented the dress to her.

"Oh!" Bryanne's mouth hung open. "It's beautiful! Are you sure you want me to have it?"

"Of course I am! I don't wear dresses any more so it makes the most sense for you to have it."

"Oh thank you so much!" Bryanne hopped off the tub and wrapped Ellaina up in a hug.

"Of course! It's the least I can do."

"I knew you were a great big sister. I always wanted a sister like you!"

"Well, if you'd like, you can have one." Ellaina was smiling even though there she was straining to hold back the tears.

"Yes! I would love that!" Bryanne squeezed Ellaina even tighter.

After Ellaina helped Bryanne get dressed she took her back outside and sent her off to play with the other children. Seeing as it was twilight now Bryanne's father would be worried she had Bryanne point her in his direction. She spoke to the young man, now a soldier in her army; Stephan was his name. She informed him of what had transpired and that his daughter was in safe hands with her. He thanked her for her generosity.

"If you or Bryanne ever need anything at all please come find me personally. I won't see any of my soldiers or their families go without." Ellaina told him.

He thanked her again and she took her leave. Ellaina headed up to Cullen's office to check in with him. She also had finally worked up the courage to ask him to stay with her at night. He can't be comfortable sleeping under a roof that has a hole in it anyway. She was in such a daze that she walked right into the door to Cullen's office.

"Maker's breath I've gotten clumsy." Ellaina rubbed her forehead. "Well that certainly helped my headache." She said sarcastically to the door as she knocked.

"You may enter." Cullen's voice sounded from the other side.

Ellaina sucked in air as she mustered her courage. I haven't felt like this ever since I told him I had feelings for him. I'm so nervous!

"Inquisitor!" Cullen exclaimed as he tossed a small box into his desk hurriedly. "I wasn't expecting you."

"I can tell." Ellaina replied with a questioning gaze. What was he hiding?

"Can I help you with something?"

Ellaina felt the butterflies in her stomach again. "Yes actually. I need to ask you a favor of sorts."

"Of sorts?" Cullen's expression held confusion.

"Well it's kind of a personal matter, but it would really mean a lot to me."

"What are you on about Elliana?" Cullen's brow was showing worry now too.

This is not how I planned this going. Get it together Ella! She chastised herself as she continued.

"Commander, as your Inquisitor I request that you stay in my quarters until the immediate danger to your person has passed!" She had gotten it all out before she felt the warmth creep up into her cheeks. When she was met from silence from Cullen she continued, "It's only temporary. I just want to make sure that you're safe."

"Ellaina, Inquisitor…." Cullen trailed off and rubbed the back of his neck.

"I don't need an answer right now. Just think about it alright?"

"Of course." Cullen nodded trying to dismiss the awkward rift that had come between them. "Is there anything else you wish to discuss?"

"Well…" Ellaina thought about her conversation with Barris.

"I would advise not keeping this from him."

"What is it love?" Concern was etched into Cullen's brow.

She had to tell him. She knew it, but she was worried that he would get angry with her again. She bit her lip wishing she could just disappear right there. That was when Cullen crossed in front of his desk and put his arms around her. He held her in a warm embrace until she felt all her anxiety along with her headache melt away. They pulled away but Cullen was still holding on to her hand.

"You aren't going to like what I have to tell you."

"I can take it, and I'm not letting you run away this time." Cullen replied and he gripped her hand a little tighter.

Ellaina sighed, unconvinced, and bit her lip again. "I…I don't know Cullen…"

"Ellaina, love, please tell me." His eyes were begging her and his brow was so knit in worry that she was about to comment on them getting stuck that way.

Ellaina sighed, unable to bring herself to tell him. She was too afraid he would get angry again. That was something she just couldn't bear right now. "I can't Cullen. I just can't."

"Would it help if I did this?" He said as he leaned down and covered her lips with his own. It was a sweet, loving kiss. Not like the ones filled with lusty passion they had shared before. She felt everything he was trying to convey to her but her own internal conflict was getting in the way.

"Cullen, I…" Ellaina started again, tears rolling down her cheeks.

What had gotten in to her? She had no control over her emotions any more. What was worse was that damned headache was coming back with a vengeance. It felt like a knife through her skull. She had taken blows to the head, but this was far worse than anything she had felt before. Her knees buckled beneath her as the room spun. She started seeing stars of different colors and then, just for a moment, a shadow flitting across her vision into the corner of the room.

"Cullen! Get back!" She drew a dagger out of her boot that she kept with her at all times and knocked Cullen to the ground beside her as she ran toward the shadow. It flitted out of the room and on to the battlements through the door she had opened earlier. "Come out and fight me! You will not have him!" She screamed as she watched the shadow flitter across her vision again and run down the length of the battlements.

She pursued the cursed thing all the way to where the battlements were crumbling from the years of stress. The shadow stopped and stood at the edge of the battlements daring Ellaina to come nearer. She stopped and stared as it just stood there. She couldn't see any identifiable weapons, only shadow. As she was examining the figure further, it spoke.

"Your war is not with any god. It is with yourself."

After it had spoken to her it disappeared. Ellaina continued to chase after the phantom. She threw herself into the cold stones as she screamed. All her pent up rage and sadness sounding into the night sky. She punched the battlements over and over again until her knuckles bled and she was certain she had broken a finger or two. Only then did she hear the footsteps. Fear consumed her yet again as she reached down to grab the dagger she had dropped. In one swift motion she grabbed it and raised it to her attacker's neck.

"Ella, it's only me." Ellaina heard her brother's voice but did not see him. Not truly. She saw his blank face as she slit his throat in Starkhaven again.

"Stay back! You're not my brother!"

"She's hallucinating." She heard Cullen's voice but her mind was too foggy to realize what was going on. Confusion set in as she tried to compartmentalize reality from illusion.

"Stay back! I'm warning you!" She brandished the blade at her attackers as she stepped back on to the crumbling stones.

"Ella, you need to calm down and trust me." Everett said calmly.

"Trust you? Oh yes, my brother has always been on my side. Just like when he betrayed me and told Father about me after the Circle was destroyed. Told him I was insane and not to believe me! Yes, Everett you are so trustworthy!" Ellaina was screaming. She wasn't in control any more. It was as if something or someone else had kicked her out of her own body and all she could do was watch as she degraded her brother.

"Ellaina you need to calm down. You're manic, feverish, and hallucinating." Cullen's voice sounded out to her again. "Please, love, trust us."

"Who are you to talk? How do I know you're real? Can you prove that to me?" Ellaina waited for a response. "I'll take your silence as a no! You two are no more trustworthy than the Knight-Commander was! Telling us to act as though everything were normal when he knew that damned mage was coming for us! He was probably in cahoots with the son of a bitch!"

"Ella stop." Everett was pleading with her.

"No!" Just then she stepped onto a stone that was completely dislodged and she lost her footing. Falling backwards her head smacked into something hard. Making her ears ring and her vision go dark, then the sensation of falling.

"Ellaina!" Cullen called out to her as she heard his boots clank across the stones.