NSFW

Chapter 14

Critical Decisions

{-Cullen-}

I knew it. He had suspected it ever since she had woken up from her comatose state. She had stopped taking lyrium and hadn't told him. Although, she was trying to tell him. He had to give her some credit. It had taken him a long time to come clean about his own decision. He struggled with it for weeks, months even, before he built up the courage to tell her. His suspicions were confirmed when she started chasing something that wasn't there. Even more so when she had drawn a dagger on her brother and refused to back down even after knowing who was there. Perhaps she didn't truly know. She had been hallucinating after all. What was she seeing exactly? She hadn't eaten for days now. If it weren't for her sever dip into depression she would probably have been ok. He could tell something was not right when he embraced her. She was warm and glistening from sweat, despite the bitter cold that had cloaked the night.

It was by chance that Everett had walked in to his office not long after she bolted. He had relayed him his suspicions as they chased her down. Everett admitted he had thought the same thing. She had been distant and more irrational than usual during his earlier conversation with him. Granted, anyone would be irrational to see someone thought to be long since dead standing in front of them, alive and well. This, however, was different. She was completely incoherent. They tried to get through to her but it was clear she was out of her mind. If it weren't for Solas she probably would have died from that fall.

"How is she?" Solas asked as he poked his head in the door of Ellaina's quarters where Cullen had been since her fall.

"Her fever is still high, but she'll live, thanks to you."

"Well that's something I suppose."

"It's better than the alternative, I should think."

"True. I'm just glad I was awake and heard the shouting."

"I'm pretty sure all of Skyhold heard it."

"You probably have a point. She'll recover, but there is something about her withdrawal that has me puzzled."

"Care to enlighten me?"

"She was completely fine until her brother seemingly came back from the dead. It's like all of the stress from all this trauma came to the surface at once, and the Anchor hasn't been this active since the first days of Haven."

"Do you think the Anchor has something to do with her heightened stress levels?"

"It's certainly possible, but if that's the case I don't know what I can do."

"It's alright, Solas. She knows better than any of us the effects of the Anchor on her."

"I suppose you are correct. If you need anything let me know. I shall take my leave as there are others who wish to see the both of you."

"Thank you Solas." Cullen thanked the mage sincerely, if not for his timely magical intervention she would have surely perished from that fall.

What am I going to do with you? He sighed as he looked down at Ellaina.

"You think she'll pull through?" Everett was understandably worried for his sister.

"Everett, trust me when I say she'll wake up any minute. She's been through much worse than this."

"Why do you think she reacted this way now of all times?"

"It probably just hadn't caught up with her yet. The past has a way of sneaking up on you when you least expect it, and trust me, the lyrium gives you excellent practice at suppressing any and every emotion and nightmarish memory."

"I hear you there. Maker's breath the Order is a mess."

"There isn't an Order anymore Everett. It's time you realized that." Both Cullen and Everett were startled when Ellaina spoke up. "Honestly how do either of you expect me to get any rest if you're rambling over my unconscious body?" She chided them both as she sat up.

"I'm so sorry sister."

"Don't be. It's about time I woke up anyway. Fucking sleep paralysis is getting real old real fast, so I hope you don't mind that I've overheard every conversation that you've had within the past half hour Cullen."

"Maker's breath." Cullen looked at her and rubbed his neck.

"Don't worry, you didn't say anything to upset me."

"Well that's somewhat of a relief I suppose."

Ellaina smiled at him and it was the most beautiful thing he had seen since he first laid eyes on her at Haven. This smile covered all of her features, tired as they were, and spread to her eyes.

"At any rate, I'm glad to see you awake." Cullen smiled back at her.

"I'm glad you're both here. I need your help." Ellaina replied.

"What is it sister?"

"Solas was right when he said that he believes the Anchor is preying on my heightened stress. It's what's causing the withdrawal symptoms to be so intense this time around."

"Are you sure suppressing it is a good idea? It could keep you from closing rifts."

"Or if I don't suppress it, I could open a rift above our heads and suck all of Skyhold into it." Ellaina's tone was not one of anger, but of concern. "Look, I know what this thing is capable of. If left unchecked the magic that's stuck in my hand could reopen the Breach. I don't want to take that risk. It's pretty obvious that it's not going anywhere any time soon so please, you have to help me suppress it."

"Don't you think this is something we should have more help with?" Everett interjected.

"No. I need the two of you exclusively. No one else."

Cullen was still uncertain, she would be going out into the field again soon, and would be putting herself in danger encountering rifts. If the Anchor didn't function properly that would be bad news for all of Thedas, but he trusted her. She was the one with the mark, she know its power better than anyone else.

"Very well. I'll help, but I can't speak for Everett." Cullen gave Everett a questioning gaze.

"Does it hurt?"

"No more than these damned headaches do." Ellaina quipped back at Everett, then sighed. "It's not really a pain per say. It's more like the feeling you get in your feet when you've squatted too long. It itches and burns more than anything, but, like I said, it's not anything I can't handle. It's just more annoying than anything."

"I see. Alright, I'm in."

"Thanks Everett." Ellaina got up from her bed and walked to the middle of the room. "I think it's best if we do this away from any windows. There's a hall downstairs by the kitchens that would be perfect. Let me get dressed and then we can proceed."

{-Ellaina-}

She entered her bathroom after gathering some plain clothing. Her head was beginning to throb again. Focusing on the task at hand she mentally walked herself through getting dressed. This proved to be more difficult than it should have been as the events from last night continued to play out in her mind. She had chased what she thought to be an assassin sent to kill Cullen across the battlements. Then just as she was about to strike it down it turned and faced her. It had no face, no eyes, and no real shape, but its calm voice made Ellaina shiver.

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

That was all it said, but the magnitude of those words weighed heavily upon Ellaina's heart. She knew it was true. She had been fighting an internal war long before Corypheus showed up. Now that she was Inquisitor and not just the mistake of the Trevelyan family, that war had only intensified. Being her mother's only daughter she saved her from the Chantry. Showing her father that she had a fighting spirit and could be useful for an engagement in the future. That's when the talks with the Adair's first began. She was only 7 years old when the agreement was made. She wasn't unaccustomed to arranged marriage. After all, her parents' marriage had been arranged and they loved each other enough to continue to have children even after they had their heir and spare. From what her father had told her, she and her twin brother had been an accident, and he certainly never intended to have a daughter. It was ironic that he decided to have children with that bitch Deana. Bryanne was fortunate to not have known her for too long before being taken to the Circle. Deana treated her and her brother as if they truly were mistakes. So Everett took off to join the Templars and Ellaina, at the tender age of twelve followed shortly after. It was sheer coincidence that she was home on leave when First Enchanter, accompanied by Knight-Commander Kristopher came to their door. Bryanne was 8 years old when they took her to the Circle, and her parents did nothing to stop them. Quite the contrary, in fact they practically handed her over on a silver platter.

Ellaina, without permission from her Knight-Captain, followed Bryanne to the Starkhaven Circle. Knight-Commander Kristopher welcomed her there with his stern demeanor and told her to keep her ass in line. Ellaina was grateful now for what he did to smooth things over with her former commanding officer. Regardless of what had happened she would have stayed by Bryanne's side, protecting her at any cost. At the time Bryanne was the only thing in her life that mattered, as she had seen or heard from Everett since he left for the Circle. That was, of course, until he too transferred to the Starkhaven Circle. She had progressed well in her training under her former Knight-Captain's regiment, but Knight-Commander Kristopher trained with an iron fist. She was constantly pushed beyond her limits and excelled. So the Knight-Commander pushed her harder, trying to break her. He never succeeded. He told her when she became the youngest officer in the Order's ranks that she was born to be a Templar. Ellaina laughed at the irony. If it hadn't been for the Order she would end up a Sister at the closest Chantry Deana could find. Oh, how angry she was when she found out she had carried a daughter all those nine months and a mage nonetheless. She despised Bryanne, the entire family did. She was a stain on the family's good name. Ellaina's blood boiled at the though. She finished dressing and joined her brother and Cullen back in her bedchamber.

"Ready?" Cullen asked.

"Ready as I'll ever be." She replied and nodded to Everett, encouraging him to follow.

They made their way to the stairs leading to Skyhold's basements. With each step Ellaina felt her tension rising. Would this really work? She had no way of knowing, but she was certain it had to. She was also certain that the Anchor couldn't be removed. She would be marked for the rest of her life, Corypheus made that abundantly clear to her back in Haven. She just hoped that this would get its magic back under control. Frankly, the constant popping was becoming a nuisance. Once they reached the basement Ellaina spotted a decent place for them to sit.

"Now then, this is probably going to be a bit tricky." She said. "We're going to have to do something similar to what the Templars did when we sealed the Breach."

"They had something much larger to suppress then, and it wasn't tethered to a person." Everett stated quietly.

"Everett has a point, the magic here is different." Cullen chimed in.

"Yes, but at the core it's the same. You can feel it can't you Cullen?"

"I can, but I still don't like this."

"And you think I do? However, the risk is too great to leave it unstable."

Cullen sighed, clearly defeated. "You have a point."

"Then we can all agree that this has to be done?" Ellaina looked between Everett and Cullen, receiving a nod from both of them. "Good, then let's get on with it. I'm going to activate the Anchor."

"Wait, what do you mean you're going to activate it?" Everett asked. "You're not going to open a rift are you?" He exclaimed.

"Calm down Everett. It's nothing like that I promise. Do you honestly think I haven't been suppressing it as best I can on my own? If I wasn't I can tell you right now that half of Skyhold would have been swiftly deposited into the Fade."

"Maker…"Everett sighed. "Alright let's get this over with."

"Alright. After I've activated the Anchor, focus past it and try to feel out what is making it run wild. You'll have to focus on my emotions. This is why I needed you two exclusively. You two, my twin brother and my love, are the closest to me. Only you can feel my emotions on the scale necessary to do this."

"So we need to focus past the mark right?" Everett sounded like a child. It was clear he was nervous, but his impatience was beginning to wear on her.

She sighed before continuing, "Yes Everett. Focus past the Anchor, feel my pain, sadness, anger, frustration, excitement, and joy. Feel it all. You can't block any of it out or else it won't work. You have to be the conduit for the suppression to work. Leave yourself open to the flow. Do you understand?"

"I think so."

"Ok. Cullen are you ready?" She turned to face him. His brow was knit with worry again, but his eyes held a fierce determination. He was ready and he would do this to the best of his abilities. She feared hurting him, but she needed him. Without him this endeavor would certainly fail. She caressed his face and gave him a reassuring smile. This softened his features a bit.

"I'm ready my love."

With that Ellaina prepared herself mentally. She had to leave herself completely open, allowing her emotions to pour out into the open. The Anchor burned as it cracked and fizzled in her palm. Her own suppression was weakening and so was she. Exhaustion clung to her. It was almost good she was so tired, it allowed her barriers to fall down. Everything she had been holding in flowed out through the mark into her two companions. She didn't allow herself to focus on them. She focused completely on the Anchor. Soon, she felt a familiar tightening in her muscles. It was working! The tightness, accompanied by a burning sensation, traveled up her arm and into her chest. She poured all of her energy into the suppression and soon she felt the tightness ease. The angry green glow of the Anchor that filled the room slowly started to fade. As she focused on the mark and willed it to be still the sensation that usually accompanied the closing of a Rift retreated back into her palm. Finally the Anchor was calm again. Relief crashed over her in waves as, for the first time in what seemed like an entire Age, she felt only the faint tingle of the magic that marked her hand. She looked up to see Cullen and Everett looking just as exhausted as she was. No words seemed sufficient enough to describe her gratitude. She simply leaned over both of them and embraced them, and after a long while like that they picked themselves up and headed back to their respective duties.

"I should go talk to Leliana about this contact she has." She said as they were about to part ways.

"I assume you're going to call a war council when we face this matter?" Cullen stated more than asked.

"I can't make any promises. I've known Camden my whole life, and this is completely unlike him."

"You don't think it could be possession do you?" Everett chimed in.

"I can't say, but I think it wise that we consider it within the realm of possibilities."

"I agree." Everett and Cullen stated at the same time.

"Everett, could you excuse us for a moment? I need to speak to the Commander in private."

"Certainly sister. Come get me when you go to talk to Sister Nightingale. They were my friends once too."

"I know Everett." Ellaina gave him a dismissing nod and turned to Cullen.

"I know what you're thinking, and the answer is no."

"I'm afraid I have no idea what you're talking about." Cullen feigned ignorance.

"Don't be coy Cullen. You were planning on suggesting that you accompany me to deal with Camden. Have you forgotten that he's the one who put a price on your head? I won't allow you to play the bait."

"You should. It would get us to Camden much faster. I'm the one with the target on my back, not you."

"You honestly think he's just after you? Are you completely stupid? Cullen he's doing all this to get to me. I know you see that." Ellaina's patience was wearing thin. "Please, I would feel much better if you were her inside Skyhold's walls."

"I know you would, but I've failed to protect you far too many times. I would feel better if I were at your side."

Ellaina could see that this conversation was going nowhere. "Then we'll just have to agree to disagree." She wanted to leave it at that, but Cullen was persistent.

"Talk to Leliana. See what her plans are and I'll expect a war council. If that means standing outside the war room until you call it then that's what I'll do."

Ellaina sighed. "Fine, but you don't have to wait outside the war room. I'll come get you personally."

"Promise?"

"I promise, Cullen."

"Good."

With that, Ellaina turned to leave, but Cullen caught her by the wrist and twirled her around to grab her by the shoulders.

"Wha-" before she could finish he had covered her lips with his. Both of their desires didn't shy away. They both moaned as teeth and tongue did war with each other, and before her desire was sated it ended. He was teasing her and she knew it.

"I'll expect you to follow up on calling that war council." He practically growled at her.

"Count on it." She breathed.

Cullen turned on his heel and walked out toward his office. The two guards who had been stationed near her bedchamber went with him as two new guards took their places.

Maker's breath, that was bold. Ellaina thought as she headed up toward the spymaster's tower. She found Everett reading a copy of Hard in Hightown near the research table.

"Getting some research in on my companions?" Ellaina teased.

"You know, they had copies of this all over the Circle tower, but I always thought that fiction was folly and a waste of time."

"And now?"

"This is genius! I'm hooked and I don't even know why! I have to talk to Varric, maybe he can give me some pointers."

"What? You want to write stories now?"

"You and I both know that reports might as well be storytelling and I'm pretty damned good at that."

"Yes, but reports aren't novels brother."

"You just don't think I can do it!" Everett teased.

"No I just think you're stupid." Ellaina laughed.

"Well, just you watch sister, someday I'll be just as good of a writer as Varric!"

"I wouldn't say that to his face if I were you." Dorian chimed in from his alcove behind them. "You might wound his precious ego."

Ellaina laughed again as Dorian approached them. "Oh, Dorian, if anyone is in danger of having their ego wounded it would be you."

"Wound my ego? Perish the thought dear lady."

Ellaina chuckled again. "We should really get up to Leliana. I'm sure she's been expecting us."

"Yes, yes, don't let me bother you with my drivel. You have important Inquisitor business to attend to!" Dorian said with a wink. "It's good to have you back by the way."

"Whatever do you mean Dorian? I've been back for some time now."

"You know well what I mean dear. Let me know if you need anything."

Ellaina nodded to him. "I will. Thanks Dorian." She turned to Everett. "Let's get going, Leliana isn't exactly famous for her patience."

"I heard that Inquisitor." Leliana said from somewhere above.

"Don't worry Madam Spymaster, we'll not keep you waiting any longer." Ellaina replied as she climbed the spiral staircase to the aviary.

"Good. We have much to discuss." Leliana replied. "I made contact with Zevran, although it was not easy."

"What did he say?"

"Well, he is concerned about the stability of the Inquisition should the Commander fall so he is willing to help."

"I hear a 'but' coming."

"Yes, well the problem is that the Crows have officially rescinded the contract."

"What do you mean the Crows rescinded the contract?"

"The people who are after Cullen are not truly the Antivan Crows. They are framing them so there isn't much Zevran can do to help us. He has agreed to come to Skyhold for the time being to work some scouting missions for us while we are hunting these imposters."

"Great so we don't even know who our targets really are!" Everett threw his hands up in the air. "Ellaina, we have to confront them directly, that's the only way."

"I don't think that force is necessary. Our forces are still recovering from Halamshiral and the ambush. We aren't exactly in a position to go to war with one of the most powerful families in the Free Marches."

"Then what do you suggest we do?"

"We take the political approach."

"What's your plan?" Leliana asked.

"I think this is something best discussed in the morning. We will discuss it further then."

"Very well."

"And what of me sister?" Everett prodded.

"Why don't you go talk to Varric? I'm sure he'd love to hear some of your stories." Ellaina replied with a wink.

"I think I'm going to pass on that one."

"Do what you like brother. Just make sure you're in the war room in the morning." Ellaina waved her hand as she turned to leave the aviary. She had a personal matter to attend to before they could deal with the Adair's in the war room.

{-Cullen-}

He held that little box in his hands for what seemed like hours staring the ring inside. He'd seen it back in Val Royeaux and almost didn't get it. He kept thinking, now isn't the right time. We're in the middle of a war. She doesn't want that. It was a beautiful ring and he had to give himself a little credit for picking it out. The band itself was silver with marigolds scrolled around it and he had picked the stones himself. A stunning blue sapphire sat in the center flanked by equally beautiful diamonds. The gems had reminded him of Ellaina's eyes. Eyes which reacted so alarmingly well to the nobles idle gossip. All those doubts that had been running through his head for so long were silenced by those eyes in the Great Hall yesterday. Now he just had to find the time and courage to actually ask her. A knock on the door pulled him out of his thoughts and he stashed the box carefully away in his desk.

"Enter." He called out.

"Ser, we're ready to give you our report on the Western Approach."

"Very good Magdalena. Bring in your men."

"Yes Ser." She saluted him and then turned to motion the rest of her squad to enter.

The report was much the same as the Inquisitor had given them. The Darkspawn were still a problem but Ellaina had ordered them to leave the situation to her. That was before Adamant. While she hadn't exactly had time to take companions back to the Approach lately, it was something that needed to be dealt with. However he couldn't allow disease to spread through Griffon Wing Keep. He would have to bring it to her attention soon.

"Thank you for your report. Rylen's men will monitor the situation."

"Yes Ser. We'll begin preparations at once." Magdalena saluted him as a messenger came in and handed him a report on the relief efforts in Crestwood.

"In the meanwhile, we need to send soldiers to…" He trailed off when he glanced up and saw Ellaina standing at the back of the room. She was leaning against the wall giving him a rather sultry look. He cleared his throat and continued. "…assist with the relief efforts. That will be all."

"Ser!" Magdalena saluted him and took the report as she led her men out of his office.

Cullen followed closely behind them. After they were all left he shut and locked the door. He sighed as he leaned against the ancient wood. "There's always something more isn't there?" he breathed.

"Long day?" Ellaina asked, genuinely concerned.

Cullen looked up at her, seeing the exhaustion he felt reflected equally in her eyes. "I shouldn't complain."

"You're tired. There's no shame in that Cullen."

This made him laugh. "I suppose you're right. This war won't last forever you know."

"Maker, I hope not! What's your point?" Ellaina exclaimed as he walked back over to his desk.

"Well, when it started, I hadn't thought about much beyond our survival. After all that's happened, things are different now." He walked behind his desk and opened the drawer he had hidden the ring in earlier. "I've been trying to figure out the right time to do this, but there will be no right time." He took the tiny velvet box out of its hiding place and crossed back over in front of Ellaina. "After this is all over, I won't want to move on. Not from you." As he caressed her face the bravado he had built up began to falter. "But, I…I don't know if that's what you…that is, if you…" he felt the heat rising to his face as he turned back toward his desk to try and gather his courage.

"Cullen. If you're asking me if I want to be with you then the answer is yes." She reached over and put her hand on his shoulder turning him around to face her. She was smiling, but there were tears in her eyes as she continued. "I've never gotten to choose anything in my life. I've had responsibility and expectations thrust upon me since I was born. Being nobility, I didn't get a say in anything. I was expected to follow in the footsteps of my elders, to live a life in servitude to the Maker, and to marry the person who my parents thought was best. The only choices I ever made on my own were to follow Bryanne and to be with you."

Cullen smiled, his heart lifted, and heat spread to his face. She just gave him all the courage he would ever need. He dropped down to his knee, blue velvet box in hand and asked, "Ellaina Lucia Trevelyan, would you do me the honor of becoming my wife?" Her eyes were wide as the tears flowed freely from them. She sucked in air and Cullen felt his confidence falter after she didn't answer. "Ellaina?"

"I can't believe it. This is what you really want?" She asked, her voice full of apprehension.

"Yes. I wouldn't be here asking you if it wasn't what I wanted."

"Even after everything that's happened? Everything I've done?"

"Nothing has changed about the way I feel. Not since I first laid eyes on you at Haven."

"If you're certain…" She faltered.

"Do you see me getting off my knee?" He prodded her. He knew she wanted to say yes. It was adorable how unsure of herself she was in private when she was such a strong leader in public, they were so much more alike than he had ever realized.

"Then my answer, Cullen Stanton Rutherford, is yes. I would love nothing more in this world or the next than to be your wife." She beamed down at him and, after placing the ring on her finger, he rose to capture her in an embrace.

"It's beautiful." She said as she stared at the bauble that now adorned her left ring finger.

"I saw it and it reminded me of you." They pulled away from each other. "It was just a setting at the merchant's stand, I picked out the stones myself."

"It's beautiful." She repeated, then looked up at him. "I love you. I've never been so happy in my life."

"Neither have I." He replied as he stepped toward her, wrapping his arm around her waist and pulling her close to him as he captured her lips with his own.

The kiss was gentle at first, but their passionate desire and all the excitement of the moment took over and soon it became full of lust. He unconsciously stepped forward until he had pinned her hips to his desk, never once breaking their kiss. She was fighting for leverage and he helped her up so she was sitting on the desk. When she moved her hands so she could lean on her hands she pushed off a glass that hadn't moved from the corner of his desk in days.

"Oops." She said with a startled chuckle. He looked at her, seeing her eyes filled with passionate desire and it made his mind fuzzy. So much so that words failed him. He could only shake his head and, in one motion, sweep all of the clutter off of his desk. This elicited a smile from Ellaina, and he returned it with one of his own. He crept forward so that he too was on the desk. Not once did it cross his mind whether or not the desk was sturdy enough to support their collective weight. He was completely focused on her. She had that effect on him. He rained kisses down on her exposed neck and collarbone as she worked the buckles loose on his armor. He kept his own hands busy undoing the laces on her trousers and pulling her loose black tunic over her head. It wasn't long before her expert hands had him in nothing but his breeches. They took in the sight of each other's nearly naked bodies before diving back into their passionate kisses. Cullen freed her from the rest of her offending clothing and ravished her every inch. They had made love several times before, but this was different. He was claiming her as his own. Seeing her throw head back and call his name was all the more cue that Cullen needed to do just that. He removed the remainder of his own clothing and sheathed himself within her.

Maker's breath how did I get so lucky? He thought to himself as he thrust into her. This wonderful woman who walked into his life slaying demons and covered in blood. This woman, who had saved him from the brink of death multiple times. This woman, who was the reason he could still stand to fight his addictions. She was all these things and so much more to him. Thoughts of how much he cared about her continued to play in the back of his mind as they reached their peak together. They lay there, embracing themselves in silence for a while.

"Shall we continue this upstairs?" Ellaina pulled him from his daze.

"As you wish my Lady." He replied with an eagerness he had not meant to show.

Per Ellaina's suggestion they did continue, all night long.

{-Ellaina-}

She awoke early in the morning and was greeted by the light pouring in from Cullen's roof. Maker's breath I wish he would get that fixed already. She thought as she turned to see him sleeping peacefully next to him. She caressed his face not wanting to wake him, but knowing she would have to eventually. She decided to let him sleep a short while longer and got up to dress. Thankfully the doors to his office were still locked because they had left all of their clothes downstairs. After placing his armor on the stand in the corner of his office she gathered up her own garments as well as Cullen's and headed back up the ladder. She ran enough bath water for her to wash her hair and found a towel to dry it with. It was growing rather long, now reaching down below her shoulder blades, and she hadn't realized how much she had missed her long hair. She decided she would just leave it down. Besides, it would dry faster that way. She combed her tresses with her fingers and did her best to make her loose waves presentable. Satisfied with how she looked in the mirror she proceeded to dress. She sat back down on the bed next to Cullen and pulled her boots on. That was when he began to stir. His breathing became heavier and he started tossing in his sleep.

"No…no…" he mumbled. "Leave me. Leave me!" With a sharp intake of breath he woke. Eyes darting all around until finally landing on her.

"It's me Cullen I'm here."

"Maker's breath." He sighed as he allowed his head to fall back down onto the pillow.

"Bad dream I take it?"

"They all are. You know that."

"I know. I was just trying to lighten the mood." She replied with a smile.

"I don't mean to worry you." He said as he put his hand on her face.

"I never worry."

"You know, I almost believed you!"

"I love you." She said with a chuckle as she bent down to give him a kiss. "Now get up lazy bones. We have a war council to attend."

"Do we have to go to work today?" He pouted.

"What do you enjoy the thought of assassins popping out of the shadows at any moment to kill you? I know I don't." Her voice was sarcastic but the question was a serious one.

"Point taken." He nodded picking up his clothing from the pile she had folded and placed next to him.

"Good now hurry. They're probably all waiting for us." With as much urgency as their exhausted bodies could muster they finished dressing and headed to the War Room.

"Wait." Cullen stopped her before they entered the Great Hall. "What's our plan?"

"What? That's what the war council is for. We'll discuss it inside." She turned around and started back toward the steps but Cullen caught her by her left wrist.

He raised her hand so that the back of it was facing her and she immediately understood. "I meant about this? You know that Josephine will notice."

"Let them notice."

"Are you sure you want to garner that much attention?"

"Why? Do you regret it?" She was hurt. Why didn't he want everyone to know? She wanted to scream it from the highest peaks in the Frostbacks. Cullen Rutherford was hers and hers alone.

"No, no! It's just, I don't want everyone making a fuss over us."

"Better now than never wouldn't you agree?"

"Point taken." He replied as he extended his right arm. "Shall we?"

"Yes, please."

They ascended the stairs into the Great Hall. They ignored the gawking nobles as they proceeded to the War Room. Everyone was waiting just outside of Josephine's office.

"Ah the illustrious couple finally decided to grace us with their presence." Everett scoffed.

"Now, now brother, no need to be jealous." Ellaina replied with, perhaps, just a little bit too much enthusiasm.

They all proceeded to the War Room and took their places along the table.

"You said you had a plan Inquisitor?"

"I do, but it will likely get complicated." Ellaina replied as she crossed her arms over her chest being sure to expose her left hand.

"Well, complicated or not let's hear it." Leliana replied.

"I think we can use our political influence as the main bargaining chip. However, it will take a combined effort. We will need to send scouts ahead to the Adair estate and Cullen and I will select a group of Templars to accompany us as honor guard."

"Wait did you just say 'accompany us'?" Everett asked, the disbelief clear on his features.

"Yes. Cullen will be coming with me." She looked at Cullen for approval. "I'm sorry to make you play the bait, but I believe it's the only way to ensure Camden is there when we go. If he's away then this will all be for naught."

"I understand." Cullen had his work face on but his eyes were sparkling like a child. She knew she was making the right decision.

"Thank you, Commander." Ellaina nodded back at him before continuing to her other advisors. "Josephine I need you to help me compose a missive to Camden's father and elder brother. I'm certain they will not condone his actions. You must insist that we hold the meeting at their estate. Offer them influence, coin, or whatever you see fit as compensation for their cooperation."

"Very well Inquisitor. I shall begin a draft immediately." Josephine replied before resuming her note scribbling.

"Once the missive reaches the Adair's we should have a set meeting time. Leliana, I'll need you to send scouts, preferably elven, ahead to the estate. They need to blend in with the servants and it is paramount they not kill anyone unless absolutely necessary."

"Of course, Inquisitor. I will send my best."

"Everett, I need you there with me, but they cannot know you are alive. You will be in the honor guard, but I want you under cover at all times. Understood?"

"Yes, sister. I think I can handle that." He replied with a wink.

"Good. Any questions?"

The room was silent for a beat before Everett piped up. "I have one question if you'll oblige my curiosity."

"Go on." Ellaina prodded.

"You said you were certain that Joseph and Garett were not in cahoots with Camden. Why?"

"Because they stand to gain much more with me alive than they would if Camden went through with his vengeance driven quest. I am the Inquisitor and we are related to the King of Starkhaven. They may reside in Ostwick but much of their trade as well as many of their trained Templars ship to Starkhaven. With my position and our blood ties, there is much more the Inquisition, as well as myself, can offer them."

"I understand."

"I didn't know you were related to the Vael family!" Josephine interjected.

"Cousins. Third if I recall the old mnemonics correctly."

"Maker's breath that would have been wonderful to know before now." Josephine shot a look at Leliana who merely shrugged.

"I too have a question." The spymaster stated.

"Go ahead Leliana."

The spymaster paused, considering carefully. "What is that, oh so sparkly, bauble you're flaunting?" Leliana smiled as she tried to suppress a giggle.

"What?" Josephine exclaimed as she practically leaped across the table to examine it herself. "Sweet Andraste!" Turning to Cullen, "Is this what I think it is?"

"I'm afraid so. Can we use those requests from Halamshiral to start fires now?" Cullen asked and Ellaina could tell he was glad that it was all out in the open now.

"Oh my goodness. I have to start preparations at once! Nobility from all over Thedas will be here!"

"What are you on about Josie?" Ellaina asked.

"The engagement party of course!" she exclaimed before mumbling and furiously scratching away at her clipboard.

"I don't really think that's necessary Lady Montilyet." Cullen pinched the bridge of his nose.

"Oh I do!" Leliana butted in. And just like that the calm that usually settled over the War Room by nonsensical arguments.

Everett shot Ellaina a questioning glance and she shrugged her shoulders. She knew full well what an uproar this would cause, but they had more pressing matters at hand. Ellaina cleared her throat and waited for order to return to their little meeting.

"If I may be so bold as to ask if we attend to the more pressing issues at hand? Like how we plan to hold a party if there are assassins after one of the guests of honor?"

Josephine sighed, defeated. "You have a point, Inquisitor."

"Don't worry Josephine. You'll get your chance to hold a party once this is over I promise you. Now, Commander I need a report on the Western Approach. I haven't been able to attend to matters there since before Adamant."

"I have Magdalena's report right here." He handed the report to her. "Thank you." Reading over the report confirmed her suspicions. The Darkspawn were pushing their position at Griffon Wing Keep. She needed to go back there. "I'll assemble a team and we'll depart for the Western Approach before dark."

"Are you sure that's wise? Traveling in the dark might not be the best idea right now." Cullen asked.

"I don't see how it makes any difference. It's a 4 day ride at best."

"I have to agree with the Commander on this. I think you should wait until first light tomorrow. Get your group prepared. I've received word that one of the King's advisors has interest in these happenings, as well as Corypheus. She, as well as an entourage, should be arriving before dark tonight." Leliana said.

"Wait, you don't mean?" Cullen asked Ellaina.

"Not who you're thinking of, but you know her."

"Alright, officially confused over here." Everett quietly interjected next to her. "If you've no more need of me I think I'll take my leave."

"Go ahead Everett. I know you're dying to go see that pretty elven girl."

"That's not-I mean…" Everett turned bright red. "I'm going to go now." Ellaina wondered if it would have been possible for him to run out of the room any faster.

Ellaina laughed before turning back to Leliana. "We should begin preparations immediately for this advisor's arrival. You seem like you know her well?"

"Yes, she and I travelled along with King Alistair and the Hero of Ferelden during the Blight, but she did not join us until the…" she looked over at Cullen before continuing, "incident at Kinloch Hold. She might have information on the Hero's whereabouts. She also has plenty of personal reasons to be here."

"Maker's breath you plan to bring her here? Don't you think that Celestine has had enough of this damned war?" Cullen exclaimed, obviously outraged at the idea.

"It was by her suggestion Commander." Leliana replied in an irritated tone. "Either way, we have no say in it. The King has given his order and she and her entourage will arrive here at dusk."

"Maker's breath." Cullen repeated. "If you have no more need of me I too shall take my leave…" he shot Ellaina an apologetic glance as she nodded, giving him silent permission to leave. "I need some air." He mumbled as he left the room.

"I think it would be best, if I too went back to my paperwork. I will have the missive for the Adair's on your desk by morning, Inquisitor." Josephine said before she too left the room.

After the door closed behind them Ellaina turned to Leliana, allowing the frustration present itself on her face and in her voice. "Alright, what the hell is going on?"

"I apologize, Inquisitor. I only got the missive yesterday."

"And you didn't think to tell me of it when we spoke in the aviary yesterday?"

"I knew we were calling a war council this morning so I thought it could wait. I see the error in my ways now."

"It doesn't matter. Who is she? Tell me everything."

Leliana hesitated for a moment before shaking her head and proceeding. "Her name is Celestine Amell. She was an enchanter at the Circle tower in Ferelden."

"Kinloch Hold?"

"Correct. She was there when the tower fell, and was taken prisoner by along with First Enchanter Irving and many of the other mages."

"Just like Cullen. Maker's breath."

"Yes. There's more."

"Go on." Ellaina was fuming but she managed to keep her temper under control despite the ever present headache that was now growing.

"Enchanter Amell was one of Cullen's charges in the tower. He begged the Hero to kill her along with Irving and all the other remaining mages in the tower."

"Great! So his guilt materializes. That's just perfect." Ellaina buried her forehead in her hand and massaged her temples. There was a burning question in the back of her mind and she had to have an answer to it. "Was there anything else between them?"

"I can assure you that, if there was ever anything between them, there is nothing now. Save for perhaps regrets and unspoken apologies."

Leliana's tone piqued Ellaina's curiosity. "Was there, rather, is there something between the two of you? You seem very sure of yourself."

"You're asking if we were lovers. Is this going to be a recurring theme with you?"

"Curious minds need to know my dear spymaster." Ellaina did her best to sound innocent.

Leliana sighed. "The answer is yes. We love each other. She has been gone for far too long on this quest with Elissa and I am, selfishly, counting the seconds until she arrives. I know that this will be taxing on Cullen, especially while you are gone, but it needs to be done. She has plenty of good reasons for coming here, personal or otherwise."

"Alright Leliana. I trust your judgement. Just make sure that the necessary preparations for a royal entourage are ready. I'll see you this evening." Ellaina turned to leave.

"Inquisitor, I have one more favor to ask."

"Yes?"

"I know this will be difficult for you, but let the two of them have some time together. Celestine has carried around just as much guilt as Cullen all these years about what happened during the Blight. It would do them both some good. I know it's selfish of me…but I want to see her smile again."

Ellaina sighed. "I'll think on it Leliana. I can't make a decision about it right now, but I can promise you that much."

"Thank you Inquisitor."

With that Ellaina turned and left the war room. She hadn't noticed how tense that room was until the weight of it lifted after she exited it. Maker's breath I could use a drink. Ellaina made her way through to Josephine's office. She found the ambassador scribbling furiously, as usual, on her parchments. Deciding not to bother her right now Ellaina proceeded towards the Rotunda. Solas wasn't there, likely upstairs helping Helissima with her research. She stopped to appreciate the new addition the Rotunda walls before continuing out to the battlements. She closed her eyes, welcoming the sting of the cool mountain air on her face. When she opened her eyes she was greeted by a soldier she had nearly bumped in to.

"'Scuse me ser." She said before going on about her patrol. Ellaina continued toward Cullen's office and was surprised to see he wasn't at his desk burying himself in paperwork.

"Cullen?" She called out but received no answer. Heading out the door closest to the tavern she questioned the inquisition soldier stationed there. "Lieutenant Martin, where is Cullen?"

"He headed in the opposite direction last I saw him." Martin saluted as he answered her.

"He didn't go alone did he?"

"No ser. James was on guard duty with me. He accompanied the Commander to…wherever they went."

"Thank you Martin. That will be all."

"Yes, Inquisitor."

Ellaina returned Martin's salute and headed in the direction he had pointed out in search of Cullen. It did take her much time to find him. He was leaning on the stone battlements near the edge of where the structure began to crumble. James saluted Ellaina as she walked past and she gave him a nod of approval. He still hadn't put his armor back on. So she assumed that he came here directly after leaving the War Room. She walked up to him, making sure her approach was noticeable.

"Hey." She said simply as she put her hand on his arm, trying her best to comfort him.

It was a while before either of them said anything but Cullen was the first to speak up. "I tried to order her death you know. I begged the Hero of Ferelden to kill all the mages in the Harrowing chamber, knowing full well she was one of them."

"Cullen…"Ellaina reached out to him again, but he shook his head.

"I even tried to kill her myself after the Hero refused my offer. I was convinced she was a blood mage, then Elissa invoked the rite of conscription. I was furious. I said horrible things to her as they were leaving the tower. I regret that deeply now, not just because she helped slay the Archdemon. I regret them because well, I cared for her. She was one of my charges. I attended her harrowing, watched as she fought and won against a pride demon in the Fade, yet I still doubted her ability to resist temptation."

Ellaina heard everything he had said. She understood, but she couldn't get past the 'cared for her' part. "Cullen, did the two of you, did anything…?" Ellaina tried to ask the question, but she couldn't get it to come out.

"Trust me when I tell you that it was youthful infatuation on my part. Even if she had felt the same, she never made it known. Besides it would have been inappropriate. I take my vows seriously, as you well know. She was my charge, nothing more."

Ellaina believed him but she couldn't deny the jealousy that tugged on her heart. "You aren't having second thoughts are you?"

"About what?"

Ellaina had to admit that his utter bewilderment was adorable. Frustrating, but adorable. "About us."

Finally seeming to grasp what was going on Cullen reeled. "About us? Andraste's mercy woman are you joking?" He grabbed her by the shoulders and tilted her chin up. "Look at me." She obliged and he continued. "I have never been so sure about anything in my entire life. You will be the only person I will ever truly love. Any glint of feelings between Celestine and I were long extinguished when I fell in love with you. Do you understand that?"

"Yes ser." Ellaina answered with a quick salute.

Cullen chuckled at the display. "Besides, I don't want to wake up to our Spymaster hovering over me with a dagger."

"We can't have that." She replied as she tiptoed up to give kiss him. When they parted she looked out over the Frostbacks and saw a small group of riders carrying what looked like Ferelden banners. "Don't look now, but I think our guests of honor have arrived."

"We had best be there to meet them when they arrive."

"Agreed, but we both look pretty disheveled. I don't know about you, but I don't see myself greeting any entourage, royal or no, without armor on."

"I couldn't agree more." He replied and with another quick kiss they parted ways to don their respective armor.

AN: Ooooh headcannons are so much fun! I just had to throw this little bit in there. Saw a prompt on tumblr about what would happen if all the Wardens got recruited during the Blight. Things are a little bit out of order with the whole romance sequence from the game but hey, what can you do? It just progressed nicely this way :-P

Thanks for all the support! Please leave a review if you are so inclined