A/N: And now… I will become like George R.R Martin. -bows- And a big Thank you to DragonReckoning for allowing me to help write Ceras. Can't wait for you to write her story. Much love to everyone, and I'm sorry that I have to be a jerk now. Um. Also…. This chapter has some M content in it. Skip over it if you feel the need. I still feel awkward writing it. Sorry if it's bad.

Warden Stroud was a middle-aged man that was strong and weathered. He had an incredible mustache, and he was holding a sword to Mina's throat. Mina stood her ground and did not let her eyes leave his. Despite her squaring off with him, she did not pull out her weapon or cast a spell. Staring him down seemed to be the better choice.

"Stroud, stand down, it's just me. I brought the Inquisitor," Hawke said as he entered the cave with Mina's other companions.

Stroud sheathed his sword and nodded to Mina respectfully, "Brave woman, coming in here alone. It is a pleasure to meet you, Lady Inquisitor."

Mina shot a look at Hawke and then looked back at Stroud.

"Call me Mina, Ser Stroud. I welcome any ally I can get in times like this," she replied.

"You came here for information tough; not to make friends. I fear that Corypheus has much to do with why the Wardens are missing. When Hawke slew Corypheus, Weisshaupt was happy to put the matter to rest. That was a mistake. I have been gathering information on this creature… Do you know much about Archdemons, Inquisitor?"

"I know a bit," she said getting flashbacks of the Hero of Ferelden.

"When fatally wounded, they can transfer their soul to another vessel. I believe Corypheus can do the same."

Varric chimed in, "That's just great. How are we supposed to kill something like that?"

Stroud moved over to a table with papers strewn about. He concentrated on the wood for a while. Mina didn't think he was going to continue. He had provided them with important information like he said he would. Disheartening as it might've been, they needed to know more about Corypheus' power. The Warden looked up once more, his eyes going between Hawke and Mina.

"Every Warden in Orlais began to hear the Calling…"

"Maker! Stroud, why didn't you say anything?" asked Hawke.

"Because you couldn't have done anything about it. It was a Grey Warden matter and I was sworn to secrecy," he said sadly.

Mina furrowed her eyebrows and clenched her fist. This was not right. Stroud had to be thinking the same thing that she was, "Corypheus is using the Calling to somehow control the Wardens isn't he?"

"Not exactly. The Calling Warns a Grey Warden his time in this world is short. Every Warden in Orlais thinks that they are dying, likely because of Corypheus. If the Wardens fall, who is left to stand against the Blight? It is our greatest fear," Stroud continued.

"So, Corypheus is bluffing them with a fake Calling, and they're falling for it," Hawke said angrily. He wasn't angry at Stroud. He was angry that this creature seemed to be screwing up his life even more and the lives of his friends. Mina felt his pain. Those were her exact feelings for this so-called Magister.

Mina put a hand on Hawke's shoulder, "The Wardens are scared. They think it's the end of their Order and they've stopped thinking clearly. We need to get to them before things get too out of hand."

Stroud nodded in agreement, "Wardens are the only ones who can slay an Archdemon. Without us, the next Blight will consume the world. I believe that they are already out of hand, Inquisitor. Warden-Commander Clarel spoke of a blood magic ritual to prevent future Blights before we all perished. I protested and said it was madness… and was branded a traitor. My own comrades turned on me."

He motioned them all over to a table with a map on it. There was an x in a place called the Western Approach.

"The Wardens are gathering here, in the Western Approach. It is an ancient Tevinter ritual tower. I believe we will find answers there," he said.

Mina smiled and crossed her arms. This was exactly what they needed in order to get answers and stop Corypheus. If they could disorient his army and disrupt whatever plans he had, it gave them more of a chance to win.

"Let's go back to Skyhold and talk to my advisors. I'm sure they'll come up with something. Thank you, Stroud. You've helped us a great deal. I promise to do what I can for the Wardens," Mina said.

On their way back from Crestwood, Mina had received a letter from Leliana saying that Clan Lavellan was in danger. Bandits had begun attacking them, trying to take advantage of the chaos throughout the world caused by the Rifts and demons. There was also a letter from Ceras that had been unopened.

Mina put it in her bag for later and wrote back to Skyhold immediately.

Leliana, Cullen, Josephine,

Do whatever you can to protect my Clan. Send soldiers, ask the nobles for help, send assassins.

Whatever it takes to protect my people, I want it done.

If there are consequences to be paid, I will deal with them later. Just protect my Clan.

If I need to, I will go to the Free Marches myself and kill anything that threatens them.

-Mina

A few days later, they arrived back at Skyhold. Mina immediately called a War meeting, despite the protest of her advisors. Stroud relayed the information to them, sparking many ideas of what to do next. They had talked for a few hours before winding the conversations down. Before Mina left, Josephine grabbed her attention.

"There is… one more matter to discuss, Lady Inquisitor," she said gently.

Mina looked up at her advisors. They all averted their eyes and fidgeted with something. Stroud pardoned himself, leaving the Inquisitor with her leadership.

"Well, what's the matter?" Mina asked heart racing. Her stomach started to knot. Something had happened if Leliana wasn't even looking at her.

"We did as you said and sent people in the area to help you Clan, Inquisitor," Cullen said. His eyes were wide and sad like a puppy who just got spanked for peeing on the carpet.

Leliana spoke up next, "Inquisitor… by the time my agents reached them… your Clan was either killed off or scattered."

All the air in Mina's lungs seemed to disappear. Her body went numb, and her mind looped the words 'your Clan was killed off'. Thalion. Keeper Deshanna. Serren the mighty hunter. Elros who had talked to Mina for hours about how he wanted to be Ceras' bond. All of the children. They were all gone.

"We are still investigating the matter. We suspect Duke Antione had something to do with this. We will keep you updated," Leliana finished.

Mina nodded and excused herself. She had to get out of there. She had to get away from everyone.

She ran out of Skyhold's gates, much to the confusion of the guards. She didn't stop running until her legs collapsed under her. She fell on the rocks soil, scraping up her hands and knees. She didn't care. She cried and yelled and cursed the Creators for letting her Clan die.

In her rage, her magic went wild. She threw fireballs into the snow and when she screamed in pain, sound waves reverberated and caused avalanches. It did not bury her, though. Her fury was so white hot that fire swirled around her, melting the snow as it slid down the mountain. Rams, bears, and snow leopards ran from her destruction.

Finally, she wore out her mana. She burned through all of her anger and lay there in the mud and rocks.

Seeking some kind of solace, she pulled out the letter she'd received from Ceras. Her sister had curious timing. Maybe Ceras had known what was going on and sought to comfort her little sister.

Dearest sister,

If you're reading this baby sister then my time has come.

You must understand how hard these words are to write, there's much I want to tell you but I'm unsure of what to say. I suppose I must start with saying I'm sorry. I had hoped that you would never have to witness the demon lurking in my soul. Forgive me Mina, but I had one last task to complete, you must give something to get something the law that governs all things. I saved this life and gave my own in return. I would expect that they have returned to Father by now, That is the only time I will ever call him that don't tell him I said it will you. It might go to his head. There's a lot I wish I could have told you. And maybe things that I didn't tell you enough. My wish was to find and protect my sister but as we grew closer I realized that you never needed me. You're strong and capable and I'm proud to call you my little sister and I know our parents are too. I've left you some things that Might help you better understand ancient magics and demons. I'm no Mage, you know this, but that doesn't mean I'm uneducated to magic. I leave everything stored inside the vault to you only you can find and unlock it. You have a certain sense for that kind of thing.

I'm proud of you baby sister,

Ceras

Finally, she let the tears fall freely.

Everything was lost to her. She lost her entire family. She couldn't protect any of them.

Someone picked her up and held her, rocking her and kissing her head gently.

"Hawke… is this how you felt after you lost everything?" she asked sniffling.

He squeezed her tighter and nodded, "Yes, cutie. It is. I'm so, so sorry you have to feel this too."

"I have to do something. Would you mind bringing me back to Skyhold?" she asked.

Hawke nodded. Before he could ask what she was going to do, she pricked her thumb with one of her daggers and muttered something. She was going to see Ceras.

Everything seemed hazy and strange. She wasn't physically anywhere. Mina could see a cage in front of her. An ominous laugh came from within it.

'You've come, at last, little one. I am Wrath, the demon that dwells within the confines of your sister's mind,' it said.

Mina squared her shoulders and glared at the thing in the darkness. She refused to let it scare her.

'Ceras! It's me, Mina. I just wanted to tell you that I love you. You're a wonderful sister, and I wish I could save you. The Clan is gone… They were killed. I don't want to lose you too,' Mina cried out into the nothingness.

The demon showed itself then. It was a huge dragon that resembled an Archdemon. It was twisted and disfigured; a horrible sight to behold. Her sister was powerful indeed if she kept that thing at bay constantly.

Mina knew she was inside of Ceras' mind. Something wasn't allowing her to manifest herself physically wherever Ceras was at.

'Leave her be, little one. Fate has already decided what will become of your sister. Go back to your Inquisition and your Dread Wolf. Urthemiel awaits you, be wary,' it hissed.

She came to in the room that Hawke had been staying in. She looked around and saw him sitting by a window, watching the sky. He looked peaceful. In her heart, she knew she should push him away. It was selfish of her to keep him around. He'd end up dying because of her. She couldn't protect anyone.

He looked at her then, worry clouding his eyes.

"What did you do?"

"I had to get a message to Ceras," Mina answered.

Hawke crossed the room and glared at her, "But you used Blood Magic."

Mina winced. It wasn't the kind he was thinking of. "I didn't make any deals with demons if that's what you're worried about. It's a bond between my sister and I. We hardly use it, and there are no sacrifices or demons."

Hawke shook his head and threw his hands in the air, "I can't believe you would do something like that. After all that happened in Kirkwall. After scolding Merrill about it… You go and do it!"

"It's not the same, Hawke. I'm not harming anyone! Never have! Nothing is whispering to me in my dreams, so I don't see the problem!"

He scowled and clenched his fists, rage and worry warring on his face.

"Since when do you only call me 'Hawke' anyway? Let Varric do that. Let the world do that. But, not you, damn it!"

He got quiet and glared at the ceiling. Mina's hackles raised and she jumped out of his bed, ready to punch him in the jaw again.

"I call you that because it's your name. I'm leaving before you decide to lecture me any further. I've had enough bullshit happen lately, and I don't want any more from you!" she snapped.

Like usual, she found herself in the tavern. Herald's Rest was lively for the time of night. Usually, people were still on duty or eating dinner. She sat down next to Bull and ordered the same thing he was drinking; same size too.

Two cups of ale later and Bull finally spoke up, "Boss, I'm sorry for what you're going through. If you want to talk, I'm here."

Mina sighed and looked at the Qunari. She trusted him with her life and wouldn't trade him for another Qunari. Not for all the gold in Thedas.

"Thanks, Bull. Right now, I just want to drink and listen to Maryden play and sing," she said gruffly.

Bull nodded, "I'll drink to that."

Not but 20 minutes later and Warden Stroud walks in, making a b-line for Mina. He didn't seem angry, which was a good sign. Mina didn't want to have to fist fight a Warden.

"Lady Inquisitor," Stroud began.

Mina, a bit tipsy poked his chest and frowned, "Didn't I tell you to call me Mina?"

Stroud cleared his throat and started again, "Mina. Could I talk to you a moment about Hawke?"

Mina rolled her eyes and groaned. She didn't want to get her ass chewed out for this again.

"Sure, but make it quick. I've got stuff to do before I do other stuff," she said, "And I will fight you if you piss me off!"

Stroud made a face, clearly thinking if this was a good time to talk to her or not. She smiled at her handiwork, thinking she scared him off. She was wrong.

"To be perfectly honest, I think you should send him away. Banish him from Skyhold," he said.

Bull made a choking noise behind her. Stroud shared a look with him as Mina stared at her glass. Bull got what he was up to and nodded, staying quiet.

"Actually, that probably wouldn't work. There's nothing that could keep him away from you. I really mean that. The Maker Himself could come down and hide you away, and Garrett Hawke would still find you. I've seen this before, and I know what it is. I've had that myself before, actually."

Mina took another gulp of ale and looked at the Warden before her, "I can't keep him. If he stays around me, he'll die, Stroud."

Stroud smiled and shook his head, "You sound just like anyone who has lost dear ones violently. But, Hawke has something stronger than fear. Stronger than despair or lust, or pride. Stronger than anything you could possibly imagine. You've been incredibly hard on him and it's tearing him apart."

"And what's he got that's so damned powerful?" Mina asked sarcastically. She was getting tired of talking to Stroud. She swore that if he said hope or determination she was going to knock him out.

"Love," Stroud answered with a grin.

Mina almost spat out her drink, "What? Whatcha mean love?"

Bull decided to speak up, "Boss. Boss, come on. Anyone with eyes can see that the Champion is in love with you."

Mina stood up and backed away from the two men, "I, uh… I have to go. I'm er… I've got things to do. Thanks for the drinks, Bull."

Mina disappeared into the wilderness for a few hours once more. It was very late when she finally returned…

Mina stood on her balcony, looking over the mountains she'd come to love. Skyhold was her home. She'd become Inquisitor there, lead an army from there, and tried her best to protect people from there. But, her thoughts weren't on any of that for once. Her thoughts were on Hawke, and the conversation she'd had with Stroud earlier. He'd said that Hawke was in love with her and she needed to soften up on him a bit. Bull said that even he could see that there was something. These thoughts circled in her mind over and over. Mina felt tears well up in her eyes. She wanted nothing more than to let Hawke hold her and kiss her once more. She wanted to cuddle with him and laugh as they lazed around in bed for half the day. That just wasn't going to happen. She'd forgiven the silence for those four years. She just couldn't let herself become distracted from being the Inquisitor. That was her job now. So many people counted on her to guide them. How could she be so selfish? The tears fell down her cheeks, thick and heavy. Her heart was breaking all over again. Hawke messed everything up. She'd gotten used to not seeing him. He had hardly crossed her mind after three years, and now he was back.

Arms wrapped around her waist and someone's head rested on top of hers. She knew who it was without having to look. She always knew when it was him. Her Hawke. Her Champion. He stood there with her silently for a few minutes before he gently turned her to face him. Her lip was quivering and tears still ran down her cheeks.

He put his hands on either cheek, wiping away her tears with his thumbs. She couldn't look at him. No one had seen her cry for a long time. It just wasn't something she did very often. To be seen in a state of weakness… It was awful. But, he didn't care. He held onto her tightly and let her cry. Hawke rubbed her back soothingly and stroked her hair, waiting for her to calm down. Eventually, she did. She had no words to say to him, but she didn't push him away. Her heart ached for him. As his did for her.

"You wanna tell me why you were crying? It's not just because of your Clan this time," he said softly. Mina shook her head and sighed sadly. He led her over to the Kirkwall-styled bed and sat down with her, not once letting go of her hand. It was so small compared to his. Each of them worn and callused by different things… They had both fought so hard.

"Mina… I'm sorry I didn't send you letters. Varric sent me yours. It broke my heart not responding, but I couldn't. I didn't want anyone to find me and blame me for the war. Fenris and I weren't just killing slavers. We were hunting down Anders," he explained again.

Mina sniffled and leaned her head against his shoulder. She still didn't know what to say.

"I—I really wanted to come see you. If I did, that could've put you in danger. I didn't know what the Seekers wanted. I was angry at the Chantry too… If I could have brought you with me, I would have…' his voice cracked and he trailed off. She could tell he was close to breaking down as well. The last thing she wanted.

"Hawke, I'm not mad at you for that anymore. I understand," she began, "You know I would've probably done the same thing. But, now… I'm Inquisitor. I don't know how you acted as Champion as long as you did! It's so much pressure."

They'd had this talk before, but… it would seem it hadn't been enough.

The relief on his face made Mina's heart soar. His eyes weren't so sad. They were their regular happy blue, full of hope and, if she was right, a hint of mischief.

"You're not alone, cutie. You've got so many people to help you and give you counsel. You need to learn to trust them more."

Mina smiled, "Thank you, Hawke."

He frowned and shook his head, "I really wish you would stop calling me that."

Mina looked at him confused, "Calling you what? Hawke?"

He leaned in close and whispered in her ear, "Say my name right, or I'm going to make you."

Mina's stomach flipped and twirled. His breath sent chills down her spine and made her grin from ear to ear.

"Hah! Champion Hawke thinks he's all big and bad against the mighty Inquisitor! Let's just see you try and—!"

He pushed her over onto the bed and kissed her roughly. She kissed him back, eagerly. That's exactly what she thought he'd do, and she wasn't disappointed in the least! She wrapped her arms and legs around him and rolled him on his back.

They parted, smiling at each other. She wanted to let go of all the pain that had embedded itself in her soul. She wanted to lose herself in the moment and not care about fighting more fucking mages. He was the perfect opportunity to do so.

"I've missed you, Garrett," she purred. He looked at her hungrily and licked his lips. She hadn't realized how much she wanted him. She'd never been with a man, but if she had the chance, she'd choose him right then. He pulled her lips to his again and ran his hands down her body slowly, feeling her curves and cupping her arse.

Mina grinned when she felt the bulge in his pants. She decided to be daring and try something new. Her body seemed to know exactly what to do.

She swung her hips around and pushed herself down on him a little harder, eliciting a moan of pleasure from him. He broke the kiss and looked at her surprised. She grinned and slid her hands under his shirt, feeling his chest muscles. He had a bit of chest hair right in the middle Mina bit her lip and ran her hands through it. It wasn't as wild or prominent as Varric's. It was short, curly, and just the right amount to drive Mina crazy. She wanted to see his chest. More than that, she wanted to kiss it and hear more of that beautiful noise that came out of his mouth. She was being driven by a primal instinct she didn't know she had.

He was wearing a loose white cotton shirt that she thought made him look like a sexy pirate. She bet it was easy enough to take off. She leaned in close, acting like she was going to kiss him, which he was ready for, but instead of kissing him, she skimmed her lips across his and lightly kissed up his neck. He shivered and slid his hands under her shirt, feeling her soft skin.

"I've waited long enough, Hawke. I'm making you mine now," Mina growled.

Garrett grinned and pulled her shirt over her head. She all but ripped his off, kissing down his chest and stomach, following the light trail of hair down to the edge of his pants. Mina felt his pulse quicken even more as she undid his pants and pulled them off. He'd kicked his boots off moments before, saving her the trouble.

It wasn't long before they were naked, Mina straddling Garrett, staring him down. His body was amazing. He had scars to add to the ruggedness she loved so much. She didn't exactly know what she was doing, and it made her nervous. She almost backed down, but the look on his face made her melt. His eyes were focused on her face, despite her being naked. He was looking at her like she was the most precious thing in the world while at the same time he was barely holding himself back from just ravaging her body.

His voice was low and seductive when he spoke, "Are you just going to sit there, looking sexy and tease me?"

Mina smiled, puffed out her chest, and wiggled her hips, causing Garrett's face to contort in ecstasy. She thought about being mean for a little while longer, but her lover had different ideas. He flipped her around so she was on the bottom and held her hands above her head with one hand and fingered her with two of his fingers with the spare hand. Mina's eyes rolled back and she opened her mouth. He didn't let up right until she didn't think she could stand it much longer. She let out a small moan and dug her nails into his back. He stifled a groan and let out a deep breath. She couldn't wait anymore. She really wanted him. If he waited any longer, she was going to roll him over again and do it herself.

He kissed up her stomach to her breasts and up to her neck. "You ready?" he asked gently. Mina nodded. He smiled at her; that half smile that made her bite her lip.

"If you want me to stop, let me know," he whispered. She nodded again, bracing herself. She didn't know what it was going to be like, considering she'd never been with a man. The last time they'd messed around, he'd used his mouth, which had been wonderful!

He carefully slid into her, making Mina gasp. Her nails slid down his back, spurring him on. At first, he thrust in and out slowly, making sure she was alright. He knew it was her first time without even asking. He could feel it.

"Ooohh…. Garrett!" she moaned, arching her back. He kissed her and picked up the speed, loving the feel of her melting into his body. He had wrapped an arm around her waist to lift her up a little more. Her head was tilted back, eyes closed. She was so beautiful. She had no idea. Hawke caressed her with his other hand, drawing out more moans from her.

They found their rhythm, grinding their bodies together in sync. Mina had pushed up harder than she had before.

Hawke couldn't help but throw his head back and yell, "Fuck! Yes! Mina!" He thrusted harder, feeling her legs starting to tighten up little by little. She was getting close.

"Garret—Garrett…." She called, "Uhn! Harder! HARDER!"

He happily obliged, giving his all to please her. Suddenly, her thighs clenched around him, her back arched real high, and she screamed, "AH! GARRETT!" He so loved when she called his name like that.

Her tightening up pushed his own release, "Uhn! Mina!" He sat there a minute, letting his breathing slow a bit before he pulled out, tired and very satisfied. Mina lay there panting with her eyes closed, unable to move her legs.

Garrett lay beside her and pulled her into his arms with a sweet kiss. She just looked at him with a smile and nuzzled his chest.

"Mmm… You're beautiful," he murmured sleepily. His elf kissed his chin and told him to shut up. Hawke chuckled and smacked her butt playfully. He had everything he wanted in that moment. It was beyond perfect. He'd never imagined that after her outburst when he'd showed up at Skyhold—or back in his room— that she'd forgive him, much less, lie with him. His heart was finally complete.

Mina squeaked when he slapped her butt. She made a face and nipped at his nipple with her teeth. That was the closest thing, and she didn't really feel like moving. It was so much better than she'd thought it would be. She laughed when he jumped and raised an eyebrow at her. Mina put an arm around him and closed her eyes. He definitely knew what he was doing, and now she was very tired. For the first time in a while, Mina knew she'd get a good night's sleep. No nightmares, no waking up half through the night with worries.

And so, the Inquisitor lay side by side with the Champion of Kirkwall; both content, both with a new hope, and both with a big job ahead of them. But, they were, at last, together again.