It had been a busy afternoon, having arrived at Skyhold around midday. Since they left camp at dawn, eager to return home, the most Cullen saw of Evelyn was the last few miles of their journey as they neared Skyhold. Trying to save himself as much time as possible, he had been riding up and down the column speaking with his officers, diving up the tasks that needed to be done upon their arrival. By the time it was all sorted, he fell in beside the Inquisitor at the front of the army for the Ambassador's fanfare welcome she planned - and had thankfully warned them about yesterday via raven. Evelyn wore her older set of armor having destroyed the one her father had made, much to Josephine's dismay, who had a ceremonial set sent to her. He too wore a secondary set of armor since it had the benefit of not smelling of demon bile. With Inquisition banners flowing in the stiff mountain breeze, the sun high in the sky, and the whole of Skyhold's residents and guests turned out for their return, it certainly was a sight to behold.

With only him by Evelyn’s side - Leliana never liked people to know of her presence - sharing the moment of his first major victory with her smiling beside him was surreal. For all the pain Adamant had brought them, it had also bridged the chasm that had been between them. Yet, after their reconciliation inside the fortress, there were few opportunities for them to steal some time together. Even so, just to be in each other's company and enjoy the repour they once had was enough to sate him. He found it was the little things, such as catching her staring at him while with the soldiers or grazing a hand or finger against him when no one was looking.

The moment the two were spotted on their mounts, the spectators lining the ramparts cheered wildly. He hated this sort of attention - any attention really, especially if Orlesians were involved. Part of him wished he had gone with Leliana, but Josephine had specifically mentioned he escorted the Inquisitor. It was his job after all, even if the Ambassador did not outline it for him in explicitly clear and concise terms: I kindly request that the Commander accompany the Inquisitor by her side, rather than blending into the ranks. I prefer to avoid any misunderstanding of his role in this victory. Furthermore, I would appreciate it if you could remind your valet to polish your armor. While engaging in battle is commendable, maintaining a proper appearance reflects positively on our collective image. And remember to wear a smile. Your cooperation in this matter is greatly appreciated.

"Wave and smile, Commander," Evelyn politely reminded him as they crested the hill making their way to the drawbridge. Her face was a serene façade paired with a bright smile as she began slipping into her role as Inquisitor. She lifted her marked hand to wave at those hanging off the crenellation, who they could just make out from their position. The decorative Inquisition golden-plated armor she was ordered to wear looked more like a red silk-blend formal gown with armor thrown over it. "What's wrong?" She elongated in a teasing tone as she threw a leg over her horse towards him to ride side saddle the remainder of the way. It was at times like these that he was reminded of her noble upbringing. While she complained at times, she mostly did as Josephine bid, knowing full well that each public appearance of hers was a different sort of battle.

"I'm simply trying to figure out how anyone would believe you fought in combat like that."

"Should we test it on the training grounds for fun later?" Her mirth was contagious and he ended up smiling.

"No need for a test, I could defeat you in one move."

"Oh?"

"I'd just pull your skirt over your head." Evelyn threw a surprised glance over at him as if he had just insulted her maiden virtue. "If I wrap it all about you, it'll catch on all those raised embellishments on that poor excuse for plating and you'll be packed in there like sausage."

She groaned, "Ugh, don't talk about food, I'm starving."

In an attempt to keep himself distracted from the many eyes staring at them as they approached the drawbridge, he inquired, "Didn't you eat at our last stop? I swore I saw you with a hunk of cheese the size of my fist as you headed into your tent to change."

She lowered an unamused glare at him, "Yes, but it was taken from me. My new lady's maid, Saphira, who Josephine sent along with the dress, is a stickler and seized it from me. She claimed I wouldn't fit in my corset if I ate it." Evelyn straightened her back and shoulders at the mention of the undergarment.

"I'm surprised the poor girl still retains her hand. I know how you get when you're hungry." He shook his head for emphasis.

They both bit back a laugh, "I did not maim her, Commander. And if you continue to tease me, I'll burn your pants off in front of the entirety of Skyhold."

"Maker's breath, isn't this bad enough," he said, motioning to the crowd as they crossed into the fortress. Thinking he was waving to them, many responded in kind making him awkwardly grab at the reigns while blushing. The two dismounted in practiced unison in the Lower Courtyard where Master Dennet's grooms were waiting to take their mounts. Offering her his arm, the two methodically made their way through the maze of congratulatory people.

"I wouldn't dare fluster you so, and besides, look. I think we have a bigger issue." As they walked up the long flights of steps to where the Ambassador stood, to their shock waited Queen Elissa Cousland, Warden-Commander of Ferelden, beside her. When they passed under the archway beneath where they stood and out of sight, they shared a knowing look. The Queen's ominous presence did not bode well, no doubt here about the displaced Grey Wardens. Noticing the tension in her jaw, his own flexed wondering what awaited them atop the next landing. Ascending the rest of the way, Josephine began her speech, first congratulating them on their victory before welcoming all the soldiers home. The queen was then introduced, though they had already met over a decade ago. Seeing her was…

Cullen swallowed hard trying to reign in his treacherous mind. He froze in his bow, and it wasn't until the Inquisitor's elbow nudged him that he rigidly stood at attention. Ignoring him, the queen addressed the gathering, but he was too busy trying to block out the screams of Kinloch Tower to bother understanding what she was saying. His breathing hastened as cold beads of sweat dotted his brow. A warmth shifted towards him, attempting to discreetly help tether him to reality. As he had done before, he picked apart the visions all the while concentrating on Evelyn's touch and smell hoping it would stop soon. Her dress fluttered over to him, grazing his fingers, which he grabbed feeling the smooth texture against his skin. The amount of scented oil she wore was overcompensating for the earthy musk from being in the field. It was a fact that he was grateful for at this moment, as he envisioned one of the demon's bloody carcass sacs. The spicy sweet smell banished it from his mind, revealing the lunacy of it smelling so nicely. He couldn't close his eyes, resorting to simply blinking away the hallucination because he was in front of the entirety of the Inquisition. Something like that would certainly be noticed, as would Evelyn's closeness, but better that than him ranting and raving publically. Calming, after what seemed like an eternity, the pattern of his breath slowed and he blinked dispelling the illusion around him for good.

Seemingly out of thin air, Leliana appeared on his other flank and protectively stood slightly in front of him as the Hero of Ferelden spun on her heel. Apparently, his brief lapse only lasted through her speech. "Elissa," the two nodded with a warm smile and Sister Nightingale guided her into the Great Hall alongside the Ambassador. The room had been cleared to give them some privacy with the queen, so the only ones walking about were the staff. Once inside the foyer, she spoke again turning to the couple behind them, "Inquisitor, there is an urgent message from Seeker Pentaghast here for you."

Handing the letter over and opening it with practiced speed, Evelyn gave a heavy sigh, "I should respond to this right away. Commander, I'll need your assistance as well. Please excuse us for a moment, Your Majesty."

"Josie, Elissa, and I will go on ahead. Meet us in Josie's office afterward." With a conspiratorial look to the Inquisitor, Leliana hooked arms with the queen chatting happily as they walked through the large hall.

Pushing him just to the side of the large doors out of sight, she studied him with soft concern, "Are you alright? It was her, wasn't it?" He nodded in response, unable to trust his voice. Still taking shallow breaths, she stood as a watchful guardian making sure they were not being observed as he composed himself. Satisfied, Evelyn took his arms and placed them around her hips, pulling his head down, supporting a third of his weight as he shut out the world for a moment. With his head turned to the side against her neck, her soft delicate skin dominated his sight and scent comforting him. Her hand rested on his out-turned ear muffling the sounds of the room, so all he could hear was her heartbeat. The moment of serenity she created, all the while swiveling her head on alert, was exactly what he needed. When he felt like himself, his hands gripped her middle and pushed up off her, unable to help deflating in shame. Stepping closer, her eyes scolded him, "None of that now."

Clearing his throat having no stomach to try and fight her, he motioned to the missive in her hand, "What did Cassandra say?"

Evelyn smiled smugly with a small chuckle, "Look for yourself." Passing him the note, all that was written on it was 'Take your time.' He should've known that Leliana had been aware of his episode, which explained her odd appearance out on the landing. Cullen exhaled forcefully, more angry at himself than anything. As if knowing his thoughts, the beautiful woman beside him slid her fingers along his jaw redirecting his gaze to her, "Don't you dare question being here. This had nothing to do with lyrium or your memory. We all care for you, and we are a team."

"But if I'm more trouble than I'm worth…"

Her finger jabbed him on the chestplate, "You have just planned and executed a successful siege against Adamant Fortress, Grey Wardens, demons, a dragon, and one deranged Venatori mage. Our losses were less than anything you had estimated, and the operation went according to plan… well, mostly, but you know I always like to make things more difficult for you." Her cheeky smile was bright, despite the lambent light of the corner they had tucked themselves into.

"I will admit, being swatted off the ramparts and opening a rift into the Fade was not something I anticipated. Would it kill you to be boring every once in a while?"

Unable to stop a full toothy grin, she leaned against him laughing, "Scared I'll give you more gray hair, Rutherford?"

He simply laughed along with her, "I'd be careful yourself, Trevelyan."

Pushing away, a look of horror was slapped on her face suddenly, as her eyes went wide. "You're joking, right? Cullen, tell me you're joking. I don't have gray hair. That's ridiculous… y-you know because of my mutation." She scoffed grumbling, "I don't have gray hair."

He began walking towards Josephine's office teasingly, "Don't we have a guest we need to placate?" Quickly following him, the rest of the way she muttered about her hair, but before they reached the door, he softly reassured her she wasn't graying, before opening the door for her. With a haughty look, she shrugged a shoulder at him with a 'I knew that.'

That was the end of their light banter as the mask of the Inquisitor was quickly donned as they joined the ladies sitting about in the Ambassador's office. An elegant seating area was arranged beside the large fireplace. It was as if Josephine squeezed all the trappings of a fashionable parlor into her rustic corner of the castle. Inquisition banners hung behind her desk on three of the walls, while on the fourth - beside the door - was one of the large golden murals the Inquisitor found displayed with a curated plaque. Above the fireplace were several other intriguing artifacts, no doubt to be strategically used as conversation starters with the visiting dignitaries.

"I apologize for the delay, Your Majesty. I trust these two have been entertaining you." There was not enough seating for the two of them, so naturally he offered Evelyn the seat while he paced about the office. After being on a horse for so long, his legs were restless, made only worse by his nervousness of looking upon the queen again. Perhaps if he kept himself distracted and just got used to her voice first, he could avoid another relapse. Looking about the room for a distraction, his eyes landed on the colorful arrangement brightening the Ambassador's desk. A fresh bouquet consisting of wildflowers from the outlying forest was placed in an expensive vase on the corner of her desk. After a bow to the queen in greeting once more, he moved to stand against the sturdy piece of furniture so he could still look as if he was engaged in the conversation.

"They have, Inquisitor, but today I'm here strictly as the Warden-Commander of Ferelden. As I've come to hear it from Arl Teagan, you are a woman of purpose, of which I can appreciate. Ambassador Montilyet has told us that you've saved a large number of our wayward brethren. I would very much like them released to me immediately."

"Commander," he picked his head up, "please have someone send for Ser Stroud. I believe he should be here for this."

"At once," he strode to the door, ordering one of the guards to find the man. He spoke to the Inquisitor on his way back to resume station beside the desk, "It may take some time for them to retrieve him from the training grounds, where our soldiers readied an area for them to be quartered. No doubt he's there." A glance from her told him to be on guard as she broke the news to Warden-Commander Cousland of the true extent of what had happened at Adamant. Leaning once more against it, he bumped it a tad too hard and a note fell from the flowers.

As it lay open, Cullen did a double-take as he read the short note that was hidden within it. Instinctually, he gazed up at Josephine, who seemed to blush at his stare. Realizing that he had just made the terrible mistake of getting himself involved in something of a personal nature, he blinked a few times as if it'd dispel the words of Blackwall's chivalrous poem from his memory. Unfortunately, his traitorous mind found itself stuck on fathoming the possibility of the odd pairing: Lady Montilyet and Blackwall?

"Before he arrives, there is a delicate matter we should discuss," thankfully disrupting his inappropriate and irrelevant train of thought. He pushed off the desk to reposition himself just at the Inquisitor's back and slightly to the side. Cullen watched the exchange of looks as Evelyn gave a pointed one to Leliana, who was seated beside the Hero. Turning slightly more to face her on the loveseat, the Spymaster's face was set forebodingly in a frown. "Before the battle, we came across something that could cause public outrage against the Wardens." Holding his breath, he peered up to finally gaze upon their prestigious visitor.

The queen didn't blink, but stared hard at Evelyn, "By all means, do not spare me. I'm well accustomed to bad news."

Observing these two women was like witnessing the final match of the Grand Tourney: The Hero of Ferelden versus the Inquisitor; the latter being the slightly younger up-and-coming challenger. Both of noble lineage, they seemed to be on equal ground when it came to intelligence having a wealth of experience with politics. Cullen found a number of similar characteristics between the two which was slightly unsettling, as he was still trying to repress the disquiet of his mind. Their brown eyes were sharp and perceptive constantly scanning each other for the slightest twitch. Both had striking features, with looks leaning more toward alluring than conventionally pretty as one would suspect from high-borns. The Warden-Commander had a notable scar crossing her high cheekbone, whereas Evelyn's made her look fiercer especially when she set her jaw. The only advantage each woman held was that Elissa was indeed a queen, and Evelyn was surrounded by her advisors.

"Very well," the Inquisitor rested both arms out on the plush chair, "before the battle at Adamant, we found a mass grave of bodies of those the Warden mages were sacrificing, and unfortunately… they were not all Wardens."

The queen placed her cup and saucer down without a clink, "I see." There was a pause as she was clearing thinking over the implications. "And who is all privy to this information?" Her hands folded neatly in her lap as she calmly waited.

"Just my advisors here and some of the Spymaster's agents. Not even Ser Stroud is aware."

Elissa's piercing eyes flitted around to all of them in turn, not moving her head, "And you are planning to keep this a secret?"

Evelyn nodded, "It is one thing to sacrifice members of your own order, it is another to waste the lives of those uninitiated and innocent while under the direction of a Tevinter Magister. If word were to get out, I'm not sure blaming it all on Lord Erimond will sate public outrage."

At that, the Warden-Commander's tough exterior finally succumbed to the seriousness of the revelation. Glancing at Leliana with fondness, no doubt knowing it was she who counseled discretion, Elissa's facial muscles softened, "You were right to withhold this information. I hope you would agree that Thedas cannot survive without the Grey Wardens." The Inquisitor nodded easing out of her own tough mask. "As it stands, peace has never been kind to our order. We always seem to find trouble in our vigilance, be it through the Elder One's treachery or our own. I'm sure Leliana has told you we are struggling to maintain our numbers as it is, a fact that few know as well. As the news of the Battle of Adamant spreads, it will make that task even more difficult. Clarel was a good woman, but it seems history will blacken her name despite the complexity of the truth. The loss of all the Orleasian mages is a devastating blow to us along with the other casualties. Yet, I have been assured again by Arl Teagan and Lady Montilyet that you laid siege with the intention of saving as many as you could." Elissa's demeanor was more accusatory now, wanting to be certain.

The Warden-Commander looked at him then at the Inquisitor, but her resolve didn't waver, "I assure you, and the Commander here can contest, that I made sure both Warden Blackwall and Stroud were able to negotiate a surrender with every soldier possible. The mages had been possessed by demons and we both know that is as unfortunate as it is irreversible."

Feeling the need to validate her words, Cullen found his voice, "Let us not forget that it was Warden-Commander Clarel who allowed this corruption in their ranks. We simply responded to the threat, without the aid of Emperor Gaspard or the other Grey Warden of Thedas."

Squinting at him, the Hero of Ferelden looked him over skeptically. No doubt if Leliana had been corresponding with her about key members of the Inquisition she mentioned the incident involving him at Kinloch Tower. "You are not wrong, Commander, but politics between Ferelden and Orlais have always been tumultuous, be it between monarchs or Wardens. There is no Blight, so our entry into Orlais would've been met with hostility. Emperor Gaspard will have no foreign armies cross his border for any reason, except for the Inquisition it seems. The late Empress Celene was much more diplomatic, cooperative, and understanding of the importance of preserving our lands, but once Gaspard rebuilds his empire, there will be a great war." Her ominous words made his gut uneasy at the prospect of another war between the two neighboring kingdoms - one being his homeland. She turned her attention back on Evelyn now, "You, Inquisitor, have guaranteed the coming storm by placing him on the throne."

Cullen held his breath as his love scoffed at the queen, which made him realize the kind of job he'd have in the future should she mouth off to the wrong person. Especially if she had no qualms about snubbing a queen of all… Maker’s breath, she was the Hero of Ferelden! As they conversed, he went through a mental checklist of how well-equipped he would be if Elissa decided to lash out at the insult. "Given my choices between him and Ambassador Briala, I chose stability." Elissa seemed thoughtful as she listened, "Briala harbored loyalty to no one, not even Orlais. If she ascended the throne, another civil war would've broken out that very night, and one that would see the elves of Thedas targeted. It would've resulted in a war of race, one that would've spread beyond the borders - into your borders to be precise. Ailenages would rise up and rivers of blood would run through the streets of Ferelden's cities." Evelyn paused, "At least with Gaspard he's the monster you know and there are diplomatic measures that you can take to protect your people. Not to mention the fact, that his military experience and reputation alone will hold Tevinter at bay from invading the south. Either way, he's weak right now, giving you the time to consider your options."

Surprisingly, the queen chuckled, making all the advisors shoot relieved glances at each other. "You speak true, Inquisitor. It's nice to meet a woman who stands by her decisions."

"Evelyn, please."

"Elissa," the Hero fired back, but looked to Leliana, "I have to say, when you insisted I come to meet the Herald months ago, I had no idea she'd be so reasonable. I expected some Chantry zealot, spewing the lies the hidden powers of the world want us to, to keep the sheep in line. I can see now why they are beginning to fear her influence." Cullen watched Evelyn visibly swallow. He remembered back to how anxious she was after Haven was destroyed when it was just Corypheus she had to worry about, but now others were wishing to undermine her. Feeling his heart beat faster at the thought of the unseen dangers, he couldn't help but place his hand on the pommel of his sword. "I would very much like to know your thoughts on several subjects, Evelyn."

"And who is I'd be speaking with: the queen, the Warden, or the Hero of Ferelden?"

She shook her head, "None of them. You'd speak with Elissa Cousland." The Phoenix snorted a laugh at the sentiment and even he felt his facial muscles twitch. "I'm interested to see if we share any common goals, ones that would benefit Ferelden and the Inquisition. I may not be able to aid you as openly as politics allow us to, but your Spymaster knows how to farrier messages back and forth without raising suspicion."

"That certainly piques my interest." There was a knock on the door, and in walked Ser Stroud. The queen leaned forward lowering her voice, but Cullen was too distracted by the interruption that all he was able to separate from Stroud's heavy intonation echoing through the chamber was Evelyn's reply of, 'Dinner it is.' After the introductions, their friendly chat returned to one of formal business, "Ser Stroud, The Warden-Commander has offered to provide the Orlesian Wardens with refuge. What say you?"

Stroud seemed slightly taken back, "That is extremely generous, of our Ferelden brothers and sisters. Thank you, Warden-Commander." He turned back to the Inquisitor, "If it's alright with Your Worship, I'd like to accept the offer. The Inquisition has done enough to help the Grey Wardens, I'd hate to keep imposing on you when you have the Elder One to defeat."

"I will grant the request and defer judgment of the Wardens to its highest-ranking members under one stipulation… that should the Inquisition require the services of Wardens in its fight against Corypheus, that you answer my call." Evelyn's words quieted the room, as the Warden-Commander thought it over for any pitfalls. Cullen thought her terms were more than fair, even too lenient given the consequences of what may have happened if the Inquisition failed. Yet, he understood not wanting to get the Inquisition involved in the messy politics of dealing out "justice" in whatever form that took. He could hear the uproar now of how the Inquisitor thought herself so mighty as to surpass the authority of all but the Maker Himself. Thinking back to the queen alluding to enemies abound waiting for their chance to strike, who would seize the opportunity in this case? The decision to leave the judgment of Wardens to Wardens was both practical and prudent. As far as the Inquisition was concerned, this was the best possible option to pair its military strength with its diplomatic prowess.

Queen Elissa studied Evelyn with an air of uncertainty, "That's all the Inquisition would ask of us?"

The Inquisitor looked at each one of her advisors for approval. The ladies just sat back and nodded content with the terms, and as nothing more came to mind, he set his jaw and gave a firm nod as well. They had discussed it, but never settled on a course of action, and with Elissa's surprise visit, Evelyn was forced to make this decision alone. "I speak for all of us when I say that the Elder One and his army are a threat to everyone, but the powers that be seem to be leaving it all up to us to deal with - no offense meant to you personally, Your Majesty. Yet, they will gripe that we are becoming too powerful without an elected Divine to steward us. The way I see it," Evelyn sat back tenting her hands, "I don't care if I have their permission to do what must be done to save the world. Something I'm sure you can appreciate." She directed the comment at the queen who smirked. "What I would like is to have allies who we can trust and who trust us in return to do the right thing by the people of Thedas when immediate action is called for."

"Isn't that what we Wardens do, save the world? Or in this case, help save the world." Elissa glanced at Stroud who gave her a suave nod. "We accept the Inquisition's terms. If you call Inquisitor, we will come."

With a smug expression, she looked up at him contently though the others would have trouble seeing it at the angle they were at. "Commander, would you have some soldier assist them in reading themselves to leave…?" she turned from him to the others, waving her hand in question.

"Tomorrow, if we can manage it. At least the men would have the rest of today to rest before having to set out once more."

"Very good," he bowed to the women and took Stroud with him, "To work?" Grateful for the distraction and an excuse if the Ambassador requested his presence at dinner, the two men walked to his office to work out the particulars. Evelyn seemed to have things well in hand with the queen, whom he hoped he never had the pleasure of seeing again.

----------------------------------------

After dressing for dinner intrigued at the prospect of gaining a secret ally - and it being the Hero of Ferelden, no less - she hurried down in a casual forest green silk dress. The neckline was wide but not deep, and she wore her two-toned hair of mahogany and birch to one side. Having expressly desired a private conversation over dinner, only Josephine was planning to join them as her other two advisors regrettably had matters to attend to having just returned. She had successfully given Cullen enough to do to dodge the invite, and she was almost certain Leliana declined knowing exactly what was going to be said already. To be honest, she had a pile of work on her desk as well, but when the Hero of Ferelden wants to discuss several issues facing Thedas and offers her aid, that pile can suddenly wait another day.

Entering the Great Hall, the guards announced her arrival at the orders of Josephine, still trying to impress Her Majesty with all the pomp. Before he could get halfway through her many titles, she squeezed the man's shoulder who was speaking, whispering with a hint of sarcasm, "That's plenty, thank you." The queen was already seated waiting for her, and she dismissed the nobles who were beginning to stand with a few stern waves of her marked hand. Sitting at the head of the table beside her guest with a huff, an amused smirk twitched at Elissa's lips. "Maker, I'm lucky they don't inform the keep when I make a bowel movement. Can't a woman just walk into a room for a meal? Our soldiers already seem to know too much providing these nobles with ample entertainment when asked." She gave the Ambassador - who was seated to her left - a pointed look.

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Elissa chuckled, "It's the worst, but unfortunately I've grown used to it. I didn't have a fortress full of gossiping people, but every town or city I passed through made up plenty of tall tales."

Evelyn reminisced about the myriad of wild stories she had heard, musing, "Among them all, I must admit my favorite was the legend of your solitary escape from Fort Drakon, stark naked."

The Hero nearly choked on her wine, "That one is true, except I stole a guard uniform and had assistance from Leliana and my Mabari in escaping. It's utterly ridiculous that people would honestly think I wouldn't try to arm myself. I suppose I did distract the guards a bit in getting the key…" She threw Evelyn a cheeky smile. "You know, while I was dressing, I remembered that my mother had been looking to marry me off to a Trevelyan before the Blight hit."

"If there is a silver lining to that awful time," she placed a consoling hand on the queen's, "it is that bringing you and King Alistair together saved you from a truly frightful mother-in-law." They all shared a light laugh as everyone had now heard of the theatrics her mother had brought to Skyhold.

"Even so, treasure the time you have with her, you never know what the Maker has in store for us."

"I wholeheartedly share the sentiment, but it's different for us mages from a noble house. My mother hated me for it and my first two years in the Circle she never spoke to me. I was only ten. Many mages of noble birth suffer the same shunning or disinheritance altogether. Their parents get angry they wasted years of time and effort training them to be a pawn in their schemes."

"I'm sorry for your trials, and I can sympathize, for joining the Wardens saw me stripped of the status my family name granted."

The mage sighed, "It's not about the inheritance, it's about the treatment and perception of mages."

"I take it then you are against reinstating the Circles?" Evelyn leaned back, remembering that even it was a partial jest, she had warned Her Majesty about her opinions. As if reading her mind, Elissa chuckled lightly to herself knowing the deep rabbit hole they could be going down. "Please, go on, this is what I want to hear after all."

Scanning the others dining in the hall giving her a moment of reprieve before laying it all out before Elissa, Evelyn's gaze unfortunately landed on the one person she was purposely avoiding…

As if having a sixth sense, Hawke strutted his way over to the ladies. Only he would be so bold as to ignore the guards keeping the rest of their noble guests at a distance. Evelyn pinched the bridge of her nose looking up with a frown as they watched him approach. Under her breath, she muttered, "Maker help us." Elissa raised an eyebrow, before sizing up the rugged-looking mage. Even Josephine looked at the Inquisitor incredulously, no doubt wondering what Evelyn had not told her yet that occurred between the two mages. His beard and hair looked groomed at least, but he had clearly been at The Herald's Rest most of the day. He moved to stand between the Inquisitor and Ambassador, resting his two meaty arms on the backs of their chairs. The rum he had been guzzling gave him a spicy scent that matched his attitude.

With a hum, the Ambassador patted her mouth with a linen, before launching into the Champion's introduction. "You Highness, I'm honored to present to you the Champion of Kirkwall, Ser Garret Hawke." He bowed with a dashing smile, "Won't you dine with us?" At the prospect of having the three greatest heroes of their time all at one table was too much for Josephine to resist it seemed, as well as the rest of the hall, as astonished gasps echoed about. The Inquisitor, however, grumbled a curse, to which Hawke gave her a pitiful yet, smug look.

"Come, Evie," his breath was strong enough to give her a buzz, "don't be like that." He addressed Elissa now, "It is an honor, Your Majesty. Don't mind the Inquisitor, she and I had a bit of a spat that she's still sore over."

Lifting her head from resting her cheek in her hand, Evelyn glowered over at him, "That's not how I remember it, Garry." She said his name with a bite. The Ambassador stood, moving over a place at the table, "Oh, Josie you don't have to--"

"Nonsense! This is a historic meeting, one that I'm honored to be privy to," while her words were filled with giddiness, the delivery was ever graceful. Her excited smile and the way she brushed down her silk dress displayed her pleasure at the turn of events. Pointing to her aides and directing them with hand gestures, there was a sudden flurry of movement about the hall. No doubt she was already drafting in her head what she would report to the public about the monumental meeting. Evelyn however was more inclined to call it a monumental something with a few more impolite words…

"Thank you, Ambassador." A shit-eating grin came to rest on his face, staring at Evelyn as he claimed the spot on her left.

"I do hope this 'spat' will not detract from our conversation, for I'm sure the Champion--"

"Please, Garret," he purred with a sloppy devenir smile that came so readily.

"-- Garret, would offer much to it as well," Elissa finished.

Evelyn gave a deadpan stare back and forth between them, "Maybe a bit too much. It was this exact topic that became rather heated a few days ago." Her cold glare landed upon Hawke, as the Inquisitor shifted in her seat uncomfortably.

"Well, to be fair," he paused to burp quietly into his hand, "we were under a lot of stress in the Fade." He tilted his head playfully toward her as if all was forgotten. It was not. Not by her. "Did you hear of it, Your Majesty?"

"You may call me Elissa, Garret. I heard something of it, though I must admit, my interest in coming here had more to do with the Warden you saved."

Garret leaned back creating a large dramatic flourish with his meaty arm, "You should've seen the way the fearless Inquisitor led us through the Fade." With a cheeky smile, he added sarcastically, "I think you only screamed like a girl twice at the demons."

She sighed thinking, Don't let him get to you. You know how he can provoke a reaction from you when he manages to stir you up. Look at poor Josie, she is smiling so hard she'll shatter her teeth. She changed the subject by speaking stiffly through her teeth. "Elissa and I were just about to discuss the issue of the Mage Rebellion, and you're welcome to add your perspective so long as you do it respectfully this time," her pointed look conveyed her annoyance at having to rehash it so soon with him.

Her scolding tone was amusing for him apparently, and his smirk grew as he swayed slightly in his seat. He held a hand up as if pledging an oath, "On my honor, no mention of the Commander."

Evelyn groaned, debating whether to get it out of her system and throw her wine in his face now rather than later. She thought better of it when she spied at least two Orlesians with sketchbooks out, hurriedly scribbling away. Thankfully, Josephine had her back to the other nobles, for her look of mortification at Hawke's words seemed to overwhelm her stalwart diplomatic mask. This "debate" was going to go very well for one of them, and Evelyn prayed Hawke's drunkenness would get the better of him. A spark of inspiration made her look at the glass in her hand, and she quickly finished her cup of wine, signaling for a servant to bring a glass for Garret. She staged a short toast to having a civil debate with him once more and tossed back the glass eyeing the Champion the whole time as he followed her lead.

With the most congenial smile she could muster, Evelyn decided to poke the bear, "Are you always such an arse, or do you like to show off when I'm around?"

His arm was resting across the table as he fingered the wine glass, "All for you darlin'."

"Darlin' me one more time, and I'll burn your pants off and really give these Orleasians something to sketch, that is if they could see anything from that distance," her politely terse glare flicked down into his lap for emphasis.

"You two remind me of Morrigan and Alistair," Elissa commented with a snort of a chuckle. "And while it is quite nostalgic, may we move the insults along?" They both expressed a short apology, but she waved it off in good humor. "Evelyn, I must admit, I believe I already know your stance on the necessity of Circles, for Alistair and I were passed several transcripts from proposals you gave to the White Spire years ago. Correct me if I'm wrong, but you believe that they are still useful, but would see various reforms enacted to give mages more freedom and opportunity. Is that right?"

Pleased that the Hero of Ferelden had taken an interest in her call for change, Evelyn straightened her back and happily expanded on the brief summary. "Yes, truly what we need is a change in the culture of how non-mages see us. Yet, this change must progress naturally otherwise it will be met with fierce resistance. In my experience, the majority of mages are resentful of Circles because they have become asylums to lock them away for the safety of the public. There are no windows, for fear of escape or suicide attempts, and what outdoor space mages can use is within view of a great wall manned by Templars. When I entered the Ostwick Circle at the age of ten, I was taught both by the Chanty and relations that I should feel shame for something I had no control over and that I needed to be locked away for the good of everyone. My father had said the Circle would teach me to respect my power and how to wield it responsibly to protect people. So when I first entered the Circle of Ostwick, I saw it as a school, not a prison. I resent that some mages believe me to be brainwashed, that my affiliation with working so closely with Templars has made me blind."

Hawke choked out a snarky laugh "Just remember what you said when I remind you of that fact."

She rolled her eyes continuing, "It was only when I proved that I could control my mana, was I worthy of the title of Knight-Enchanter and the trust of the Templars. Rather than complain I was some victim of circumstance, I studied and mastered my powers. As the Templars got to know me and trusted me - Evelyn - not mage Evelyn, they began to see beyond the fact that I was their charge, but their comrade. It took time, of course, to peel away the layers of prejudice and suspicion, but I earned it through my devotion to making sure I was in control of myself to not harm anyone."

A glance at the drunk on her left revealed he was hardly listening, picking at something under his fingernails. "Ah, such a heartwarming tale. I can barely hold back the tears,” he remarked dryly. "Thank you for being so brave and revealing the source of your undying love for Chantry boys."

"Ser Hawke," Josephine interjected, "perhaps you'd like to share your views. This is, after all, a polite debate." He stared at the Ambassador a bit too long for Evelyn's liking, and she kicked him under the table, pretending she was just trying to cross her legs. He was so numb from drinking that he hardly flinched though.

Turning back to them, his heavy lids made his every gaze seem more sensual than he intended, especially towards the Inquisitor. "You kick hard for a Knight-Humper."

"Enchanter," she corrected flatly.

"That's what I said."

She rolled her eyes and huffed, "You know, the queen doesn't need to sit here and be forced to tolerate your drunken stupidity as I must daily. You have the rest of your life to be an idiot, couldn't you have just taken tonight off?"

"It's quite alright, Evelyn. I think you forget who I'm married to. Childish insults and arguments consume my days while in Denerim." She was relieved to find Elissa taking it all in good humor, as she too sipped her wine with a smirk. "Please Garret, I'd like to hear what you have to say as a mage who evaded the Chantry all his life." At that, Evelyn swiftly finished her glass of wine and called for another.

The stare that he gave the queen was one of a man's undivided attention - though Evelyn mused in her head it was probably because his drowning brain couldn't manage much else. "Simple, Elissa: Here I stand, a shining example of a mage who has forged his own path, untainted by the Chantry's indoctrination. It's quite shocking, isn't it, that I haven't succumbed to becoming some accursed maleficar, as they would have you believe. Raised by a mother who embraced love and wisdom, I gained a deeper understanding of the world than those imprisoned within the Circle's walls, surrounded by their dusty tomes. My mother taught me morals, distinguishing right from wrong, rejecting the Chantry's narrow-minded perception of mages. I have no desire to see myself or any other mage subjected to the Templars' oppressive rule. They are nothing but relics of a bygone era, puppets controlled by the strings of the Chantry. Their purpose? Merely to suppress and subjugate mages, driven by their fear of our innate power. I say leave things the way they are, it'll work itself out in time."

"You're joking?" The Inquisitor couldn't help her gaping mouth, "Seems hypocritical of a man who took matters into his own hands quite often. 'Oh look, the Qunari are invading. I suppose it'll work itself out.' I'm sure that is what Varric quoted you saying in his book, right? There needs to be a balance and healthier change to how Circles are managed. They should be centers of learning not just for mages but for everyone due to their vast stores of scrolls and books. Every Circle should also have a healing center, where mages, surgeons, and alchemists work together. So many times we've seen infectious outbreaks in cities, yet, no one dares summons the mage healers to assist simply because of fear."

"The fear of mages runs deep in Ferelden's people." Elissa alternated her weary gaze between the two. "Horrid stories of Tevinter and the barbaric rituals that they perform on slaves do not help alleviate their fears. Now, an ancient Magister, one who breached the Black City, is trying to destroy our world. Things just keep getting more and more complicated for mages, and yet, the ones I know are some of the best people I've met - Anders excluded." Elissa's brow drew down and she looked to Hawke, "Your friend did mages no favors when he blew up the Chantry in Kirkwall."

Garret huffed, and for once Evelyn didn't blame him. He was asked more about his rebellious companion than anything else, and it always seemed to weigh heavy on him. "I'm not sure I could call him my friend, for I'm not sure if any of us truly knew the real Anders. I may believe Circles have outlived their usefulness, but I cannot condone the killing of innocents by them either. What he did was wrong, but the Templars have no doubt condemned more mages than the amount of people Anders killed that day."

The Inquisitor interjected, "It is the Chantry who is to blame; the Templars are merely their weapon." The queen looked expectantly at her for an explanation, "If we trace the path of treachery from oppressed mage, to the abusive Templar, up the chain of command, there is always a Chantry Mother at the end of it. There is enough blame to be shared between all the parties involved, but all the hate and fear is spread by the heads of the Chantry."

"I suppose then it is convenient that the head of it is dead now." All three looked in quiet shock at the Hero of Ferelden. "Come now," she said in a more hushed tone, "you've both seen the ugly truth of having had dealings with it now. Do you think we monarchs are unaware of it? We all call ourselves Andrastians, but are we really? Or do we follow the tailored teachings of the Chant of Light? How many times has it been reworded to their advantage throughout history? The Chantry wields its two most powerful weapons, fear and repentance, like a true master. All of us are seemingly on their leash, not just the ones they've convinced with lyrium. It is as you say, Evelyn, they preach to us from a young age to hate mages, then train the young minds who give themselves to the service of the Templar Order that they are above their charges, and you know the rest that follows. I've seen young untainted minds look at mages with awe and amazement, only to be reprimanded by an elder that they should fear it instead. Hate is taught and bred, we are not born with it." She took a slow sip of wine allowing her words to sink in. Her sharp eyes never left them, but were more focused on the Knight-Enchanter.

Hawke crossed his arms with another burp, "Let’s say you enact these changes and the Chantry miraculously stops spreading hate in its teachings, people are still people. They will always fear what they do not understand."

Evelyn shot back, "Then they need to learn. They need more interaction with mages to understand them, and to build trust. I've spent the last decade doing just that. I've taken their spite and kindness in kind simply for a chance to show them that we are just people like they are, just with a stronger connection to the Fade. We aren't Tevinter Magisters here to enslave them but stand beside them to stop that from happening. The South is literally the opposite of Tevinter! Neither way has it right, but we have to start somewhere that doesn't involve traumatizing the populace as this Mage Rebellion has done." The Inquisitor looked to her Ambassador, "Josie, how many officials have written to us to intervene in disputes between mages and a frenzied mob?"

"Too many, and they still are delivered to us in the dozens." Josephine's tone was somber, as this issue was a frequent discussion in the War Room. Even after all this time, there was no way to put a definitive end to it amidst the rest of the chaos. "Most of the time, our agents arrive too late. The mob has simply taken justice into their own hands and the mage dies. After investigating, the majority of cases have proven that the mage was simply trying to survive - begging, purchasing food, providing healing services, and so on. The times that were able to diffuse the situation, it was our Templars who talked down the mob or used justifiable force. The mages we save usually join the Inquisition for protection."

"The king and I personally believe reform is needed." She looked to Hawke now with a touch of disapproval, "However, this change cannot be the complete dissolution of the Circles, for the people will riot and mages will be the ones slaughtered." A glance back to Evelyn brought back the earlier sentiments she shared about the elves should Briala had become Empress. In both cases, it was too much change too quickly. It had nothing to do with race or magic, simply human nature that when such things are forced upon generations of people who have thought one thing for decades, public resistance was to be expected. "So, I ask the two of you, what is to be done then? We cannot reinstate Circles without change, yet we cannot simply let mages loose among the populace. What is the middle ground?"

There was a long pause as she and the Champion gazed at each other thoughtfully. It had occurred to her that on the day this matter was to be decided by the next Divine that she'd probably be standing beside Hawke looking at him in such a way. They were two of the most infamous mages in Thedas, and somehow it qualified them to decide such things. Evelyn had already been instrumented in the stewarding of Thedas' future, how much more would she be responsible for? "I'm inclined to believe that this is a bigger problem to solve than with just those of us at this table. Shouldn't we discuss it with--"

"Evelyn," the Warden's hand came to grasp her forearm with a will of steel, "you should've learned by now that if the Chantry didn't put your reforms in place then, then they weren't ever going to. No one is going to; you have to do it." The Inquisitor's eyes widened at the queen's firmness. There was an unapologetic resolve that dwelled in her, one that spoke of her rise to fame. She and a few companions against all odds saved Ferelden and the rest of Thedas a long decade ago. Yet, the fight wasn't out of her even having been elevated to a life of privilege beyond her birthright. Blinking them back into the present, her countenance became more congenial, "I've heard the sky here in the mountains boast an unmatched view of the heavens. I would love to see it from your highest tower." A glimmer of conspiracy brightened her eyes once more.

Catching on, Evelyn stood excusing them from dinner with the help of Josephine who took care of Hawke and guided Elissa up to her quarters to speak privately. "I know you were using that as an excuse to ditch dinner, but I really do have the best view," she said good-natured as she opened the doors to the veranda. The women leaned against the windows, not desiring to go out in the cold, but wanting to take in the spectacular display of the moons and stars.

"Have you heard of the events that occurred at the Landsmeet back during the Blight when Alistair became king?"

Evelyn nodded, "That's when you were nominated for queen as well."

She looked over at Evelyn with a sharp stare, "No. I proclaimed myself queen. By all rights, Alistair should've married Anora Mac Tir. It would've pacified both sides of the schism, uniting one of Theirin blood and that of King Cailin's widow. It was the perfect solution." She gazed up at the stars again, "Tell me, would you trust the fate of the Inquisition, after this is all over and if you triumph, to whatever puppet they place on the Sunburst Thone?" Evelyn didn't answer but shrugged having not necessarily spent much time thinking about it. "When the new Divine is "elected," the first order of business will be to bring you in and have you surrender your authority back to Her. In that moment, you will give Her everything you've bled and suffered for, and She will undo it all. Everything you have fought for since you became the Phoenix would have been for naught." Feeling her eyes return to hers, the women shared an understanding of those thrust into the Void and forced to make something of it. "I love Alistair, but I became his queen because if I didn't, Ferelden would've been stewarded by a woman whose family had mine killed. Anora may not be a thug like her father, but she has ambition. My kind, innocent, and hopelessly immature husband," her eyes sparkled with the depth of her love as she spoke of him, "would've been simply a figurehead beside her. I may have designs for the country myself, but when Alistair is being especially king-like, he has made some excellent decisions with my full backing. I can confidently say he'd not have the chance joined with her."

"If this is a lead to asking me to become the next Divine, my answer is a hard no. Should I survive all this," she held up her marked hand, making it spark, "I wish to disappear, live in peace…" A smile graced her lips as she thought of her own Ferelden beau, "hopefully somewhere in your kingdom, actually."

Elissa chuckled, moving to face her more skeptically, "A Marcher preferring frozen Ferelden over the sunny north? You must be doing it for a man." Evelyn gave her a pointed look, smile, and wink at the truth. "Good to know, we'll have a woman such as yourself in residence, but no, not you. The Mothers are speaking of three candidates, all of whom are prominent members of the Inquisition." Walking to her sitting area in front of the fire, the queen took a seat rubbing at her arms from the chill. Stoking the fire with a wave of her hand, she bid the Warden to hold her hands out as she jumped a warming flame from the fire to circle her cold hands. "A handy trick, thank you."

Shutting the doors, the mage joined her and poured them both a glass of sweet red wine. "See, I'll do just fine living in Ferelden."

Elissa hummed in agreement, " I leave tomorrow to ready Vigil's Keep for our brothers and sisters." Evelyn would've thought she'd leave it to others to do, but after getting to know the queen, she knew she left nothing to chance. If she wanted something done, she did it herself - just like the Inquisitor. "I truly believe you and could be formidable allies, Evelyn. You seem to be a woman after my own heart and Leliana trusts you, which speaks volumes." Standing to retire for the evening, the two walked to the stairs, "A Warden's time is limited. It has made me consider the bigger questions in life earlier than one would expect to. Your time leading the Inquisition will be much shorter, so I'd advise you to use what influence you can now rather than later." She and Elissa grasped hands, "Call on me when you need my aid or rather have Leliana. The less people know about our partnership the better. And thank you again for doing all you could at Adamant."

"I will, thank you, Elissa. I look forward to our correspondence. May Andraste guide us both." Descending the steps, Evelyn's lady's maid, Saphira, was waiting in the stairwell for the ladies to finish. When they appeared, the Inquisitor had her show the queen back to her room and dismissed her for the evening. There was one more Ferelden she wanted to see...

Walking over to his office like she had a purpose, she bid all those exiting the Great Hall after dessert goodnight in passing. Though the hour was late, it looked like Skyhold's guests were still celebrating their victory and return home. Slipping through the bedizen nobles and diplomats, she caught two Orlesians gossiping. Typically, she ignored it, but she had an uncanny feeling that they were speaking of her:

"Would you have guessed such a pairing?" Out of the corner of her eye, Evelyn caught the woman who was speaking as she skirted around them.

"Oh, yes. The lure of command. Noble names. Classically arousing in every sense."

"Careful, ears."

"Of course," he whispered back.

She thought to herself, Command? Noble name? Was it a coincidence? Shaking her head at the oddly chosen phrasing, she continued in her mission only getting suckered into a brief conversation or two before finally slipping out through the rotunda and across the bridge. Pausing outside of his door she listened to him speaking to some of the messengers regarding supplies for the Grey Wardens. She gazed up to the sky saying a silent prayer to Andraste that that whole ordeal over… sort of. They still had to speak about her returned memories and spreading mark, to which she was not looking forward to either discussion.

Knocking when she believed he was done, she heard him bark out a 'Come,' and she entered. "Inquisitor. Why are you knocking?"

"Oh, I wasn't, that was me banging my head against the door after the night I had."

He chuckled, not looking up from shuffling the papers around into neat piles on his desk, "So long as you haven't started a war with Ferelden, it couldn't have been that bad." He gave her a sidelong stare, "Evelyn, you sassed the Hero and Queen of Ferelden… Maker's breath, the next time you plan on speaking like that to a monarch - and one who has killed an Archdemon - tell me so I can at least bring my shield!"

She just shrugged laughing, as she walked over to his bookshelf to peruse the titles, "Sometimes it just happens. You know me and my mouth… especially when I'm hungry."

He made a snort of a scoff in agreement still bent over his desk making notes, "You still haven't told me why you were banging your head on my door? What was so awful?"

"What would you say about debating the future of Circles with a drunk Hawke in front of the Queen of Ferelden?" Cullen's head snapped up with a scowl. She hummed raising her eyebrows and rolling her eyes.

He stared at her in disbelief, starting and stopping a few times lacking the articulation to express his shock. "And the Ambassador allowed it?!"

Evelyn spun from the shelf, chuckling lowly, "Oh if you could've seen her face! She had no idea Hawke and I got into it in the Fade and--"

"About that," he interrupted, "you've yet to tell me as well." He arched an eyebrow straightening to full height with his arms crossed. When the hour bell rang, he twisted about as if looking for something hidden beneath the papers cluttering his desk, "Shit, is that the bloody time already?"

She swallowed hard at being saved by the bell. It wasn't that she didn't want to tell him, she just knew it'd ruin his night because he'd blame himself for Garret acting like an arse to her when it was not the case - at least anymore. No, their disagreement was now political. Lost in thought for a moment, she realized he was trying to hurriedly organize his papers for the morning's messengers. "You have a date tonight that you're rushing off to, Commander? Does someone else command your attention?"

"Believe it or not, I need to get down to the tavern to see Varric."

"Either I drank too much wine tonight, or you just said you were headed to the tavern… to see Varric?"

"That's right," he still didn't look up, making marks here and there on several pieces of parchment before standing back with a final inspection. "Care to join me?"

Standing in shock and befuddlement with an expression to match, Cullen rounded his desk to place a kiss on her lips, looking amused by her state. "Having endured Garret's stench of the tavern for the past few hours, I think I'll pass and simply meet you in bed. Will you be long?"

"If I know you'll be waiting for me, not at all." He strode to the door, but looked back, "Lock the doors before you head up, I have my key. And then you can tell me about Hawke and the Fade." With that, he was off and after doing as he bid, she climbed the ladder.

As she changed into one of his shirts, she swayed her way over to the single window where there was once a gaping hole. The moons had moved since she gazed upon them with Elissa and the stars twinkled to a celestial tune. All was quiet, save for the occasional jingle of armor from the guards patrolling below. Propping herself up on the table under the window, she shivered when the cool breeze snaked its way in through the window as she unbound her not-graying hair. Hugging and tucking her legs up into herself, yet enjoying the way the chill felt against her bare skin beneath the shirt, she sat silently closing her eyes. It was the first quiet moment she had all day. As much as she loved Cullen and having him near, she still needed some time to herself now and then to sort through the chaos of her days. Having been away from Skyhold for almost a month and with the army, she had not had a minute to herself for the sake of her sanity.

When the door down below clanked open and closed, she smiled to herself. Even though he expected her to explain what was said between her and Hawke, the respite from everything and everyone was enough to bring forth clarity to her thoughts. Each boot hitting the rung on the ladder, getting closer and closer just made her breathe deeper. The veil of tranquility that settled over the room must have confounded the Commander for when his blonde hair appeared, it was followed by a look of concern.

"For a moment I thought you left," the rest of him followed, bounding up over the ladder.

"Shhh, listen," he froze as his eyes darted back and forth, "it's so peaceful." Her head fell back against the window frame as she closed her eyes once more. The loose collar of the shirt drifted down off her shoulder and she lost herself in the moment again. Listening to him trying to unbuckle his armor without disturbing her made her chuckle to herself and she slipped on the table to help him. He'd be at it all night at this rate. When his plates were off, they went back to the window and he embraced her from behind. They stood there in silence once more for a long time just listening to their steady breathing. She knew he needed this as much as she did.

"One day, perhaps you and I will be able to do this more often," he whispered sweetly.

She turned to face him, "I hope so." Elissa's words came back to her, "Do you think we'll be able to let go of our duty when the time comes? You know, leave the responsibility to someone else to carry?"

His face tensed with serious thought, "It'll be difficult, but hopefully, we'll find a new purpose."

She hummed in agreement, "I think you're right." She led him over to the bed and stripped him of his remaining clothing.

"If you think this is going to get you out of telling me what happened in the Fade--"

Evelyn pressed a finger to his lips, "Cullen, it's our first night back from being in the field. It can wait until morning… and until you're next to a practice dummy." She pushed him down and straddled his hips.

"It's going to make me that angry?!" Even in the silver moonlight streaming in from the window, she could see his cheeks already reddening.

"Yes, my Ferelden farm bumpkin." He scowled at her. "See," she pointed to his face, "his words, and that wasn't even the worst he said." He growled, but she claimed his lips swiftly, pressing his shoulders into the mattress. His hands grabbed her sides and pushed her off, but she was persistent grappling him with her legs and arms. She found the melee amusing, giggling every so often as she thwarted his attempts to unseat her. When Cullen finally freed one of his legs as she was all but laying flat on top of him, he hooked it around her and rolled them. With a grunt from the weight of his body landing atop hers, she flipped her hair back out of her face as she tried to reason with him, "If it makes you feel better, my shining reputation did not go unscathed either. Can we stop talking about him?" She forced her voice back to a soothing tone, closing her eyes for a moment with a deep breath, "I want to think about you. Us. Look, we even meet your minimum requirements of having at least one pillow."

Gyrating her hips up against him, he let go of a big huff gazing back down at her. A smile he was trying to suppress peaked through his rage, "Fine, but the first training dummy I see is getting splintered into a million pieces."

"I'm sure it had it coming anyway," her hands and fingers teased about his hips and thighs. Making their way up his back now, she dug her fingertips into the solid muscle, dragging them hard down his back. He let out a groan as if she released some tension in them. Massaging what she could from on her back, he closed his eyes and surrendered to her ministrations. When his anger fled a minute or so later and was replaced by arousal, she felt safe to speak again without flustering him, "No matter what each day brings, know that when we meet at the end of it, I'll be here to give you what you need. Whether it is this," she arched her body up against him, "or space, and everything in between, I'll be here."

"I don't deserve you," he kissed from her scared shoulder from Haven up to her jaw.

She couldn't help but chuckle, "Cullen, I'm not quite sure there is another soul out there that would put up with me as you do. I hate to be the one to break it to you, but you're stuck with me."

He pushed the large shirt up out of the way, up past her hips, "I think you have it backwards, I'm the charity case after all."

"And I'm a magical time bomb. There we're even," she pulled him down into a searing kiss and after some time as the tingling between her legs began to coil, she murmured, "Now make love to me already before I throw all your pillows out the window."