#dragon age fanficiton

[tigereyes45]

Our Alibi

Chapters: 1/1 Fandom: Dragon Age - All Media Types, Dragon Age II Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: Graphic Depictions Of Violence Relationships: Female Hawke/Varric Tethras Characters: Varric Tethras, Hawke (Dragon Age), Bethany Hawke, Aveline Vallen, Isabela (Dragon Age), Merrill (Dragon Age), Fenris (Dragon Age), Sebastian Vael Additional Tags: POV Varric Tethras, Missing Scene, Canon Compliant, Hurt/Comfort, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, Rogue Hawke (Dragon Age) Summary:

War has broken out in Kirkwall. Meredith is dead, and Varric needs to get Hawke back home.

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

This story was a treat I posted for the @hightown-funk 2022 event. This is a gift for @fade-and-loathing-in-thedas​​

The Ao3 link is here: https://archiveofourown.org/works/42538806

[sketchyfletch]

Chapters: 18/? Fandom: Dragon Age: Inquisition, Dragon Age (Video Games) Rating: Mature Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Relationships: Female Inquisitor/Josephine Montilyet, Female Inquisitor/The Iron Bull (Dragon Age) Characters: Female Inquisitor (Dragon Age), Josephine Montilyet, The Iron Bull (Dragon Age), Solas (Dragon Age), Blackwall (Dragon Age), Cullen Rutherford, Cassandra Pentaghast, Leliana (Dragon Age), Sera (Dragon Age), Varric Tethras, Vivienne (Dragon Age), Cole (Dragon Age), Dorian Pavus, and just pretty much the entire cast plus a few others Additional Tags: Found Family, music as an emotional crutch, original origin, i deviate from the set inquisitors pretty much immediate, tags updated as i go, everyone is a little bit gay here, who likes trauma as character building?, Dragon Age - Freeform, Mage Inquisitor (Dragon Age) Summary:

Nicolette O'Hara is a travelling minstrel in search of a story. After ending up in the worst place at the worst time, she gains the ability to do magic and is dragged into the centre of her own tale. Along the way she encounters religious fanatics, mad templars, discovers she's braver than she thinks she is, makes new friends and falls in love. And in the background of the tale we know, the cult of the Second Bride is waiting...

In this chapter, Nicolette is re-introduced to Hawke, and Cassandra has a fit. 

[tiny-elf-of-doom]

The Cloak-and-Dagger Game - DA2

M!Hawke x Fenris ft. Varric

Varric is writing another book and needs inspiration for his protagonist's sex sequence. To ensure his knowledge is clear as glass, he decides to snoop around Hawke's mansion to see what he and Fenris get up to. The dwarf ends up pleasantly surprised.

MDNI 🔞: sex, gay boys, top!Hawke, bottom!Fenris, flirting, dirty talk, language, erotic massage, rough kissing, spying, humor, Varric is hilarious, and plenty of banter.

In my attempts to complete my most recent tale, I've found myself in a rut; stuck with a lack of creativity. This happens among writers many times in their lives, but through trials and tribulations, or perhaps sheer luck, they break down such blockages. Unfortunately for me, I've been staring at this page for a while now, and of course its a heated scene.

I would love to think of myself as a sexually involved man, a romantic lover, but moments like this brings me to opposite conclusions. Perhaps I need to get into the mood when I write these sequences, or ask someone how to go about establishing the involvement of two men. I wipe the annoyance from my tired eyes, knowing fully that asking that question would be rather complicated. Sebastian has probably never been touched in his life, nor has Anders, but Hawke has, and so has the broody elf, Fenris.

Perhaps the clouds have lifted. A warmth pools over my lower belly as I imagine their secret escapades, or perhaps its the ale. No one knows what kinds of lustful acts they conduct, which would make it hard to interrogate them. I nearly banish the thought from my mind when I recall a conversation had between them at the Hanged Man. Something about staying the night in Hawke's mansion to 'catch up' after all of three days of separation had passed. I could snoop around, wade my way through the mansion until I stumble upon his sleeping quarters. I'd stay in a tight closet, yes, Varric, very good!

And so it is settled, I play the cloak-and-dagger game.

~*~

If I hadn't been so dull, I would have left some space between myself and the damn linens. Closets in these large houses never fail to be stuffed with ridiculous clothing. Wriggling against the farbics, I peek through the grates on the side of the wood paneling. From there, two figures are seated on the carpet, enjoying wine next to the fire. It crackles, blazing gold against their casual garb. I don't think I've ever seen Fenris and Hawke dress so simply, especially in one another's presence. Firelight brightens their skin and for once in all of the time I've known the elf, he smiles. Chuckles, even, at the yarn Hawke begins to spin.

He's truly not that comical. Well, compared to me, at least.

"...and that was how I defeated a Qunari in battle with a broken sword," Hawke finished with a bow.

Fenris had clapped, smirking with full lips. "A true hero of legend!"

Hawke batted the comment with his hand," forget it!"

"Award him with anything he desires!" Fenris replied.

Of course, I feel happy for Hawke and that broody elf, but their interactions are anything but unique. Typical lovers congratulating one another on their accomplishments was mild drabble, I want more, and after a moment of feeling like a fool trapped in a closet, I finally have my wishes granted.

"Anything I desire?" Hawke coos, "I would like you in my bed, elf."

"Me? I'm sure you can find someone better..." Fenris might be serious, appearing self-conscious as his gaze is cast aside.

Suddenly, Hawke's voice lowers. "No, Fenris. You have always had my full desire. I only crave you."

Now we're talking. I wish I brought a quill and paper with me, though I doubt it would fit in that closet with me. Hawke pulls the elf into a kiss with the tug of his fingers under that dainty chin. It's slow at first, then picks up when they began to get handsy. To be completely honest, I have always wanted to see the full design of Fenris' lyrium tattoos. They peak out along his arms and throat, some on his legs, but I have never had the chance to truly see what kind of chaos covers his torso. Hawke has, and I am still slightly jealous for that.

The elf happily disrobes, sitting nude in the wake of the fire. White, glowing lines flow along every muscle, branching around his body as a tree in spring blooms outward. It's kinda cool, though unfortunate. All the pain of a full body carving, and for what? To rip people's hearts out? It doesn't seem very fair. Soon, Hawke joins him in the disrobing, throwing their clothes to the side nearest to this closet. I hold my breath, don't you dare bump anything.

Luckily, they don't seem to notice my shadow moving between the grates. I am safe for the moment, thank the Maker. Fenris climbs atop Hawke, straddling his left thigh. He moves along the bulging muscles with finesse and utmost experience. To my surprise, he begins to make a stream of noises I never thought I would hear. They are loose, sultry in the back of his throat. A songbird couldn't carry a pretty tune as this elf can. Hawke has his left hand settled on the elf's hip, moving it along with the smooth gyrations.

"Care to take a ride with me, my beautiful Fenris?" Hawke asks softly.

Fenris nods, "yes, I believe a ride is much needed."

Oh yes, I agree. Hawke lifts the elf into his arms and I can't help but adore the way broody elf's legs wrap around Hawke's strong torso. To the bed they go and I've lost visual on them. Goddamnit, I curse. I peer around the closet for any holes in the wood, but I am left with darkness. Perhaps if I slightly open the door, I can see the bed. Rattling is heard from the nightstand, so there is enough distraction and noise to hide my movements. Carefully as to remain hidden, I push the closet door forward until there is a decent view of the bed. To my relief, neither of them noticed the squeaking. Varric, if you ever do this again, don't choose the fucking closet next time.

Hawke takes his time kissing the elf, making sure his lips have ventured over every crevice and marking on Fenris' body. His moans are sweet, but grow desperate when his lover pushes his legs upward to touch his shoulders. Maker's balls, I can't believe how flexible the elf is. If anyone else in our group ever tried that, they'd be out of commission for a month. However, Fenris wraps his arms around his calves, keeping them in place so Hawke has full access to his ass. He dips down to plant a kiss on the back of the elf's thigh, relaxing his partner, no doubt. Fenris is always a nervous creature, so such tenderness is most definitely needed.

Then, things become interesting.

I watch as Hawke latches to the elf's backside, licking the skin and fucking the hole with his tongue. Broody elf's big, green eyes roll back into his head, flopping to the bedsheets in absolute delight. A tingle pricks at my belly, an excitement like no other. I may need to take care of personal business at this rate, but not here. The sounds are obscene and Fenris is eating them up, going so far as to grip Hawke's hair for dear life.

"G-Get the oil, Hawke," the elf pleads, "I want more than just your tongue inside of me."

"Is it that bad?" He joked with a wink.

"It's better than anything I could ever dream."

Cheesy as hell, and I roll my eyes. Another kiss is pressed to the elf's leg before Hawke turns to grab their decorative bottle of oil. It's in a gold vial covered in intricate markings, likely one of the treasures Hawke's been gifted over the years. A few drops suffice along with the man's spit to lube them both. The larger man lays back against the pillows, welcoming a needy elf to seat himself on his lap. Those markings glow brightly, nearly blinding me as I try to shield my eyes. One hand on Hawke's well endowed cock and one lyrium clad palm help ease the elf onto that incredible hilt.

Pain, plenty of pain causes the elf to cry out. Even I cannot help but flinch at the idea of being penetrated by something so thick. The stretch must be unforgiving, though broody is taking it like a champ. Hawke rubs the elf's hips, attempting to sooth the agony just a little more. It takes time, and I expect it to, but soon he's seated and breathing heavy. And this is why I don't bottom.

"Are you alright, Fenris?" Hawke checks in, voice gentle.

Fenris only groans, gasping for any words willing to be released. There appear to be none present, therefore, he ignores communication and starts to rock his hips. Bouncing up and down, he brings Hawke into a small fit of vocalization. It's everything I imagined it would be, just as masculine and deep as his usual voice. Opening up slowly, Hawke joins Fenris in thrusting upward into the elf, angling his hips in a different manner every time. I raise my brow in momentary confusion, what is he trying to accomplish?

Suddenly, Fenris cries out, gripping Hawke's strong forearms. I think I see trails of blood leaking to the bed. "Keep your hips like that and don't you dare shift them!"

Ah, I mumble to myself, he found broody's love spot.

The thrusting continues in this new position and Fenris is mewling like the most popular whore in all of Lowtown. I never thought I would be hearing Fenris lose himself in the wrung of pleasure, but here I am, stiffening from the men before me. Bianca will be jealous, but I ignore the thought and begin to palm at my trousers.

"Fenris, not so fast... I might-" Hawke growls, head thrown back against the plush pillows.

Fucking hell, Hawke.

The elf slams his mouth against his lover's, taking him in a deep, hot kiss. "Come, right now... fill me with your kin."

What the hell, Fenris?

It all becomes too much, even for me, and I watch as the two come undone within each other's grasp. Fenris releases himself all over the front of Hawke's stomach and chest while the champion of Kirkwall has found a safe place to expel his orgasm within the elf. In order to keep myself from joining them, I squeeze the hell out of my testicles, focusing on the pain as opposed to the pleasure. They collapse onto the bed, heaving breaths until the only sound in the room is the roar of the fireplace.

"Once you're up to it, how does a bath sound?" Hawke questions.

"Much needed," broody raises his head to kiss Hawke's cheek, "thank you, my darling Hawke."

"Always, Fenris," he had replied.

No, no, thank you both, I cackle in thought, for all of these incredible ideas. Hopefully, I won't get anything wrong when I tell this story.

[thejabberwokk]

Dalish Week #1- Arlathvhen

@dalish-appreciation-week

Been working on these since October started and still end up almost late XD

#1- Arlathvhen

Featuring Sintilis Lavellan

Rated PG- Mentions of death

The crowd was too thick and Sintilis wanted nothing more than to run out into the darkness and escape.

To her, it seemed the clans were merciless, she wanted nothing more than to wash her hands of everything and everyone and be gone.

Cheers and adulations rung out up onto the stars. Fears and good fortunes spoke unto gods that did not exist.

Her mood continued to darken. She was there alone, save for a small regiment of Inquisition agents whom she ordered to stay out of the Arlathvhen. She didn't need an honor guard, let alone a group of shems crowding in on the neutral grounds. She had wanted to take just a few scouts, but was denied by her advisors.

She was barely welcome as it were. 

Her clan had fallen. Wycome had been a bloodbath thanks to the Tevinter funded heretics. They had died, helping the people of Wycome at the Inquisition's- no her behest and they had paid the ultimate price.

She was now the leader of clan Lavellan, its soul member. The end of a legacy. And she wanted nothing less than to join them.

She didn't deserve to live when her clan gave everything on her orders.

She had come to the gathering of clans to ease her guilt, yet she avoided anyone that would have offered a kind word or an ear to plead for understanding. She was a mess and she knew it. Self flagellation only worked to calm the egos of the desperate. And she was beyond that stage of grief. 

Dalsih, and then Charter, came up behind her as she stood, just outside one of the bonfire's rings of light. Quiet as the approached, she stood still, staring at the flames and the shadows of those who danced around it. Their life and joy, the thrill of being alive ringing up unto the heavens.

“Inquisitor, “ Charter started, voice unsure at her back. “We, well, the other Inquisition elves and I, we want you to know you can enjoy yourself.” Her voice was calm, but there was an edge of unease that made Sintilis bite her lip in frustration.

“There is nothing for me to celebrate, but I shall not stop you, nor the others from enjoying yourselves.” She grasped her hands behind her back, letting her Inquisitor mantle fall back into place.

“But ser, You are the Inquisitor, and you were first of your clan, the time for grief never passes, but neither does the time to create more memories.” Dalish fidgeted, her bow was nowhere to be seen, and she seemed a bit out of sorts because of it. 

Sintilis turned around abruptly, anger in her gaze, but both women stood their ground.

“This is a gathering of the clans. My clan is no more. A clan is not made up of a soul survivor.” she hissed through her teeth, ashamed that she couldn’t even control her temper.

“Then make your own.” Charter replied boredly. She was inspecting her nails, nonplussed with her superior's tantrum. 

“Excuse me?” She was stupefied. How could they even suggest such a thing?

“I said, make a new clan.” The scout met her eyes, confidence and… triumph shining in their depths. The fire behind her cast her shadow across the two women before her, their eyes glowing in the light.

“I can’t just… You can just make a clan.” Sin flung her arms in exasperation. What they were suggesting was unheard of. Making her own clan, absolutely inconceivable. 

“Then petition your fellow Keepers. You have a following of loyal elves, from all backgrounds. They left their clans, left their alienages, left their homes, to follow you.” Charter continued, and as she did so, more Inquisition soldiers slowly walked out of the shadows; Elven, every one of them. Pride and compassion shining in their eyes as they watched their befuddled leader.

“It does seem like you have a clan, ser.” Dalish hid a smile behind her hand, feigning a cough. “Sorry, smoke.”

Sintilis watched as they assembled, tears fighting to break free. “But I let my family die, how can you all support me even now!?”

“Your grace,” a scout, Briar if she remembered, approached slowly, her helmet in her hands and a nervous smile on her face. “You asked for your family's help, and they did everything they could to provide it. That is what family does. That is what a clan does, right?”

Sintils breathed deeply, trying to reign in the tears that wanted to burst forth. “But they’re gone.” she said softly, ears drooping, eyes squeezing shut.

“So honor their memories, don’t dwell in the past. And learn from them.” This time it was Mineave that spoke, she had joined the other women in front of her. Her calming aura washed over her as she took a deep breath and released it.

“I, I don’t think we can just announce a new clan… I am the Inquisitor, I can’t… I can’t truly be both?”

"Your grace,” Charter stepped forward, placing a hand on her shoulder. “You are the Inquisitor, but you are elvhen first.” She stepped back with a smile. “We don’t follow you because of what some shem’s named you, we follow because you lead us true.”

Cheers went out amongst those gathered as SIntilis looked out among her people in awe.

“We don’t even have a name… What ever would we even present to the Keepers and Elders?”

“Well. ser, we thought about it…” Charter seemed shy, quite suddenly.

She looked at them incredulously.

“And we were thinking since the Thane named you Lady of Sunsets…” Dalish continued.

“Cut to the chase, Charter, Dalish.'' Minaeve snapped, tapping her foot impatiently, a smile fighting to be let lose.

“We were thinking Aridhel” Briar rushed.

“You’ve kept us all safe during the darkest of nights, your grace.” Charter smiled, gratitude in her voice.

Tears streamed down SIntilis face as she walked forward, embracing the women before her. 

“We will speak to the Keepers and Elders in the morning, if this is what you all truly want.”

“It is, Sintilis.” Charter wiped a tear from her cheek, as the other women smiled with their own watery eyes.

Taking a step back, Sintilis regarded them, then walked past, facing her brethren in arms.

“Welcome to clan Aridhel, all of you.”

Clan Aridhel, our protection in the night

[writingforatwistedworld]

malleus when he has access to mc phone notes and sees they are writing self insert fanficiton about him

That would be a nightmare come true for me.

Self-aware au

I do not take any responsibility for you reading this no matter which age group you are from!

WARNINGS: Yandere themes, possessive behavior, obsessive behavior, kidnapping, executions, stalking, breach of privacy

Finding out you write self-insert fanfiction about him

When Lilia entered his dorm he didn't expect to find a Malleus who stared holes into the air

So what happened?

You happened

It was a normal day until he suddenly found out he could access the unending wisdom of the overseer

Great! Does that mean they approve of him as the next king?

So he dove deeper into the things in his head (or as we know, the data on your phone)

It was all innocent in the beginning

Just some things like your friends names, a few photos but nothing weird

And then he stumbled upon them

He noticed his name in some texts but, oh well he was the next ruler of Briar Valley so of course you had dug a bit into his past...

He was about to move on until he reread the texts and didn't just skim over the first two sentences

And oh boy... he did not expect this

The poor man is bluescreening

Why is he being described to be in a relationship??!

Is this his future?!!

Rereading once more he finally concluded that the person he is in a relationship with is... you?

Does that mean that you also harbour feelings for him??!

*happy dragon fae noises*

Why didn't you say so sooner?

If you did he would have made preparations for your descent sooner!

The whole Valley is now panicking because their future king is trying to summon a otherworldly higher being

So uh... I can only say that the wedding preparations are going smoothly

But don't worry about anyone ever daring to question your authority once you are there (not that someone would ever do that)

One walk to the dungeons later and... yes, Lilias sword has been sharpened

As much as your arrival was a big deal for them the faes outside of the palace never actually see you

Why should he put you in danger after all?

Who knows who is after you out there?

[thevikingwoman]

DWC: the way you said I love you; as a goodbye?

Hi! four years later, and I’m filling this prompt. Sadness, for @dadrunkwriting

Fandom: Dragon Age. Words: 399

Iwyn Lavellan X Solas | Inqusition end | angst/romanceRating: G. Sadness, angst, Solas being Solas

Goodbye

He has a plan. They will fightCorypheus, he will take the orb, and he will leave. He’s sure it will go well. Iwyn,the Inquisitor is well prepared, her plan is solid and her allies are competent.In the confusion of battle, he should have no trouble slipping away.

He has a plan, and he will leave.

Solas sighs, and looks at themural before him. Unfinished, but it’s how it has to be. He reaches for heroutline, where he’s traced her, victorious.

Ar lath ma.

He cannot say it, and it’s no use.He’s made his choice.

His desk is messy, paper and booksand half eaten piece of bread. He tosses the bread and straightens the papers.Considers the books. Should he bring them? How neat can make his place withoutarising suspicion. He moves a few papers back, haphazardly over the table. Findsan important one, and shoves it in his pack.

His eyes dart around, and up. Noone is watching, no one is leaning over the railing.

Solas sits at his desk. He can’tleave her like this, not without a word. He find sa blank piece of paper, hispen. He knows she will find it.

Vhenan.

I first of allmust tell you I am sorry. I am certain you have won by now, and I have left. Iapologize for my departure, and how things are between us, but it is better in thelong run.

I hope you findhappiness and peace wherever you go, no matter what you do next.

There arethings I cannot tell you, things that will be made clear later. I wish… I wishit was not so.

Ir ablelas,vhenan.

Goodbye, Iwyn.

Ar lath ma,

-         Solas

 He folds the letter, and places itin the drawer. Takes it out and writes her name across it. He wonders if he shouldput it on her desk, or leave it in his room. No, on his desk is better. Shewill come here, after. When he’s left her, victorious and alone.

It’s better that way. She isstrong, and he shouldn’t interfere.

He loves her, and he needs toleave.

His hands tremble.

I love you, goodbye.

It serves no purpose. He hasalready hurt her enough. The letter turns to ash in his hands.

He has a plan, and he will leave.

[mercenarysexuality]

My Dragon Age RP blog at @valorcorrupt is back up and running

I’m going to reblog some of the drabbles to my old fic blog on @herdarkershadows

So if that’s a thing you’re interested in... u kno

[beckily]

Chapters: 1/1 Fandom: Dragon Age: Inquisition, Dragon Age (Video Games), Dragon Age - All Media Types Rating: General Audiences Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: Alistair/Josephine Montilyet Characters: Alistair (Dragon Age), Josephine Montilyet Additional Tags: Dolls, Drabble Summary:

I saw this adorable picture with Alistair and Josie playing dolls together and had to.

https://postpostgame.tumblr.com/post/116359217020/can-we-pretend-this-happened-this-probably

[coldturkeyshivers]

First, I love your story. "Unqualified" is amazing. It's a joy to see every update. It's been fun to watch the confusion Ellie is undergoing while Solas tries the very approach she unintentionally suggested in patiently winning someone like Vexan over, *cough* her. Do you think she will talk to the mage Maeve? I feel like they would get along. I've wondered how Lavellan would handle Dorian or Cole and I'm hard pressed into imaging her recruiting either. Looking forward to the next!!

Response:

Congratulations on being the reason I’ve logged into my tumblr for the first time in over year! Lol! (or something like that)

I’m glad you enjoy the updates (even they only seem to happen when the stars are aligned and people are chanting naked under a full moon). And ha! When I was writing that scene I also thought it was funny that Ellie didn’t pick up on that (regardless of whether it was intentional on Solas’s part).

As for Maeve... I have no idea who that is. Do you mean Minaeve? (And apparently Maeve is the default name for the female starting elf in DA:O?) 

I’m sorry, please forgive me. XD I tried googling the name and that’s what came up. In general I do want to try and sprinkle in side characters. However, since I haven’t played the game, I might not realize they exist. 

Minaeve is a really good example of this. It’s a name I’ve seen pop up in fics, but not enough for me to think of the character on my own. It isn’t a name I’d be able to say off the top of my head, and I don’t know anything about what Minaeve does outside of fanfiction. My fanfiction impression of Minaeve is that she is some kind of paleontologist??? I hear her name and I think dinosaurs. :| 

Lastly, both Cole and Dorian will be recruited. All the “main” characters/inner circle will be present int he inquisition. Whether or not they’ll stay is another matter. Sera in particular springs to mind given how unapologetically Dalish Lavellan is. 

Regarding the next update: Currently I’m ~3/4 finished with the next chapter of Unqualified. My goal is to have it out before school starts in 3 weeks (and I subsequently fall off the face of the earth for a few months).  

[meloncholor]

Writing Masterlist (11/2-11/8)

Enjoy the updates!

Blog Exclusives

Trevor, You’re an Idiot - Trevor and Sypha try and name their first child.

Christmas Memories (Part 1) - (Prompt) A fluffy story about Trevor, Adrian, and my Bloodborne character name Ezio giving each other simple presents for Christmas and talking about their lonely past.

Reading - Trevor Reading over Sypha’s shoulder to annoy her.

Come to Bed - Sypha is an early riser and Trevor is a lazy boi; Sypha snores and it sounds like purring

Please Put Me Down - Trevor can speak french; Sypha gets injured and Trevor has to carry her

Remembrance - Trevor opens up to Sypha emotionally.

Mi Oso - Sypha tries to teach Trevor Spanish

Dog Days - Sypha brings in a stray German Shepard because it’s scruffy and soft and it reminds her of Trevor.

Magic Spider - Trevor and Sypha have to decide who kills the spider.

Birthday With the Dirty Boy - Trevor’s birthday.

Star Children - Sypha and Trevor looking at the stars.

Winter’s Bounty - Trevor makes a cloak like his for Sypha.

Your Laugh is Funny - Sypha is ticklish.

Goodbye, I Guess - Trevor visits his parents’ graves with Alucard and Sypha.  

Castlevania Mafia AU - Just what the title says.

Osito - Trevor asks why Sypha calls him that.

Birthday Girl - Trevor celebrates Sypha’s Birthday

Finish - Carmilla and Godbrand hate s*x. (Lemon)

In Bed Alone - Trevor isn’t feeling great.

A First - Elinore’s first words.

Singer - Trevor asks Sypha to sing for him.

Destino - Trevor likes Sypha’s singing.

Echo: Undaunted Warmup #1 - Echo is a bit touch starved.

Castlevania Warmup #1 - Elinore goes hunting.

House Call - Lisa treats a young Trevor.

I Would Prefer If You Shut Up - Vlad gets defensive of Echo

How Lovely to See You Again - Vlad greets his wife (reader) when she gets home.

Archive of Our Own

General

Warm - Trevor and Sypha share a moment by the fire. (Lemon)

A Snowy Relief - Sypha and Trevor have fun in the snow

Thunderstorm Blues - Sypha gets hurt by a night creature, Trevor is left to watch over her

An Unexpected Fortune - Trevor and Sypha have to share one bed at an inn. (Lemon)

A Few Drinks Together - Sypha insists on coming with Trevor to the bar. (Lemon)

A Cottage In The Woods - Alucard pays a visit to the Belmonts after a long time away.

You’re a Mean One, Ms. Carmilla - Carmilla calls on Hector when she’s bored (Lemon) (TW: R*pe/Non-con)

One Lie -Trevor nearly drinks himself into a coma

Old Friends - Trefor visits the new home of Leon Belmont

Castlevania 2185 - The gang breaks into Vlad Inc.

The Hanged Man’s Prize - You are hired by the famous crime lord Vlad Tepes, and his interests start to reach far beyond the scope of your duties. (Lemon)(Incomplete)

Echo: Undaunted - Isaac’s biological sister struggles in undoing the evil Carmilla has wrought. (Incomplete)

Hidden Charms -  Alucard likes SOME things about Trevor. (Incomplete)

Grace - Trevor saves you from a witch-burning and you are left with the aftermath of what you’ve seen.

Indulgences - Trevor is a filthy dirt man who only functions on spite, even when it’s to his detriment. Alucard fixes this.

Fifty Shades of Carmilla - Hector and Carmilla have a tit for tat relationship

Belinda and Leandra Belmont - Exploring Trevor’s parentage

Light Reading - Sypha finds a book on vagina spells.

Mother Dearest - Sypha finds a journal on Trevor’s Grandmother.

Blog Exclusives

Tone Deaf - Kyoka/Bakugo AU where they’re musicians

Seeing Stars - BNHA boys smoking weed and girls dropping acid.

Dancing Queen - Todomomo trying to learn to salsa dance.

I Didn’t Know - All Might forces Endeavor to reconnect with his family.

Torment - Students find a bottle of Aizawa’s scotch.

An Early Morning - Emi and Aizawa’s morning with Kiwa.

Please Stop Asking Me - Emi is the first to push for kids.

Bakugo’s Lament - Bakugo explains why he didn’t become a villain.

Unpolished Kiribaku Warmup - The family goes shopping.

BNHA Kyoka/Kaminari Warmup - They’re hanging out.

Little Wonders - Ochako and Izuku in their home.

Parent-Teacher Conference - Emi and Aizawa are asked to come to Kiwa’s school.

Save Me - All Might almost drowning, based on the scene from Aladdin.

A Forgotten Memory - Enji and Yagi before everything changed.

Archive of Our Own

Two Bros in a Hot Tub and They’re Definitely Gay - Kirishima visits the number 2 hero Bakugo in his expensive home (Lemon)

Mom Swap - Katsuki and Izuku switch moms, that’s it.

Mom - Mitsuki visits her son in the hospital

Tired - She hasn’t seen Shoto in a while

Is this a Porno? - Izuku doesn’t think Mei has a medical degree… (Lemon)

Holding a Vigil - Momo waits for Shoto

Alice in Wonderland - Izuku has conflicted feelings when he sees Hitoshi at a strip club. (Lemon)

A Memory Preserved - Toshinori and Enji have passed their times in the limelight, it’s time for them to finally talk about what happened.

Blog Exclusives

Spoken through Pen Strokes - Charthur fluff.

Just a Little Bit Longer - Jovier Fluff.

Sunny Days (Part One) - Charthur Fluff

Happy Valentine’s Day Arthur - Albert pays a visit.

What Once Was - Arthur finding out about his ex-wife and son.

Dance With Me - Dutch asks Hosea to Dance.

Charthur Warmup - Pure Fluff.

Wasted Opportunity - John is an idiot.

Archive of Our Own

Two Sides of the Same Coin -  Albert Mason is a fool.

She’s All I’ve Got -  Hosea has to save Dutch from her brothers.

Soaked to the Bone -  John takes Javier fishing.

Starry-Eyed - Arthur gets distracted while Charles is tracking animals.

Blog Exclusives

Anwar and Nadia Warmup - Nadia tries serving traditional Haitian food.

Muriel and Lillian Short - She likes playing in his hair.

Trouble in Paradise - Lucio isn’t paying enough attention to Ophelia.

Noise - Lillian has a panic attack.

Another Warmup - Avina has trinkets Asra’s never seen.

Archive of our Own

General

Mala -  Lillian takes Muriel to her favorite shop, and then she meets a new friend.

A Short Reprieve -  Lucio and Ophelia are late for a banquet.

Here in the Garden - Julian has to walk through the woods to get home, and on his way intrigues the interest of the woman who makes her home there.

Arcana Thirst

Let My Love Adorn You - Ophelia’s sanctuary is invaded. (Lemon)

Greeting the Sun -  Anwar and Nadia spend the morning together. (Lemon)

Deviating Divination -  Avina gets home late with her supplies. (Lemon)

Sanctuary - Lillian wants to give something to Muriel. (Lemon)

Be My Muse - Donovan is having an art block, Julian helps. (Lemon)

Archive of Our Own

The Gift of a Sword

A Lone Sword - Alistair and Leliana have a short conversation about their leader.

Sharing - Sten wants to give the Warden a small gift for returning his sword.

Gift of a Sword - Valmiro finds out what Kadan means (Incomplete)

Archive of Our Own

Romantic Philistine - Catria and Lukas sneak away from camp (Fire Emblem: Echoes)

Shhh… -  Python and Forsyth forgot to be quiet. (Fire Emblem: Echoes)(Lemon)

Apples -  Catria and Lukas share breakfast. (Fire Emblem: Echoes)

Black Wine and Good Times -  Genji is escaping the mansion for at least a little while, he meets a stranger in a bar. (Overwatch)

Missing You - Genji finds out Jesse is coming home. (Overwatch)

Sickness -  Carol is a bit unsettled when she couldn’t grant wishes for a period of time, she goes to Strange for help. (MCU)

The Entrance - Grim is waiting in jail, he gets saved by an elf and he really likes what he sees (Kingdoms of Amalur)

Spookfest 2019

Halloween Prompt #1 - Ophelia and Lucio go for a walk.

Halloween Prompt #2 - Donovan gives an autumn gift to Julian.

Halloween Prompt #3 -  Symone and Elinore freak out over losing a grimoire.

Halloween Prompt #4 -  Lillian has a bad habit of bringing home animals.

Halloween Prompt #5 -  Izuku and Bakugo go to a haunted location.

Halloween Prompt #6 -  Emi surprises Kiwa

Halloween Prompt #7 -  Avina gets flustered.

Halloween Prompt #8 -  Charles and Arthur go hunting.

Halloween Prompt #9 - Sam tricks Dean and Cas

Halloween Prompt #10 - Dean doesn’t realize what he’s done. (TW: Gore).

Dire Discomfort - Echo braids Trevor’s hair.

[ageoftheelves]

regular people: It’s finally fall! I love pumpkin carving, long nights, and the chill in the air. me: it’s fanfiction angst season, my dudes.

[a-gay-bloodmage]

—Umbrellas—

Pairing: Sera x Female Trevelyan

Pairing Type: F/F

Words: 980

Warnings: Routine Weed Run Turns Fluffy, Harmless Magic, Just Some Cute Lil Girlfriends, Adorable Cuddles As Per Usual

Sure, she wasn't technically doing anything of importance, but sometimes she just needed a day to do something she wanted to do without her advisors distracting her with some boring little chore.

"Isn't it pretty?" Kiora asked, bending over to snip the plant at the base of its stalk.

Sera laughed, looking over. "You're so weird, tadwinks," she said, shaking her head. "It's just a plant."

"A pretty plant," Kiora corrected, smiling. "Isn't it the most beautiful colour? All greenish-blueish..."

"You're mad," Sera laughed. She brought over a handful of the cut stalks, placing them in Kiora's basket. It was already decently full, and the supply would last her quite a while.

"I think I'm good," she said, looking through the plants and checking for any glaring deformities they might have missed. She looked up to the sky, but the uniform mass of clouds made it had to tell the time. "We should be getting back, huh?"

"Yeah, looks like rain," Sera said, hands on her hips as she studied the sky. "Ow!" She flinched, a water droplet hitting her between the eyes. "Stupid sky!" She looked to Kiora, who was hiding a smile behind her hand. "Stop laughing. Caught me off guard, dumb rain."

"I'm not!" Kiora protested, whispery voice laden with amusement. "You just look so cute..."

Sera rolled her eyes, trying not to smile. "You want to head back?" They were a little ways outside of Skyhold, but no more than thirty minutes by foot from the front gates. "Don't want you catching a cold, you know."

Kiora nodded, extending the arm not weighed down by her basket for Sera to take.

"Weirdo," Sera smiled, looping her arm around Kiora's. "Let's go."

A minute into their walk, and the raindrops had started to fall faster.

"Ugh, I'm getting wet!" Sera groaned. "Your makeup's gonna get wet, too!" She gasped.

"Oh, probably," Kiora nodded, readjusting her basket. Flexing her fingers, she concentrated on drawing out a small amount of magical power from deep inside her chest. A shimmering black rod manifested slowly in her hand, growing to about a foot before slightly solidifying. After a second, the end puffed out into a semi-circle, shimmering into existence as a shiny, gossamer-like force field. "Perfect," she smiled, letting the magical shield float above their heads, rain bouncing and rolling off the translucent magic.

"That is... so cool," Sera said, looking up and listening to the slow, heavy droplets hit the magical parasol.

Kiora smiled, always delighted to see Sera enjoying her magic. She understood the reservations the elf had when it came to the craft, and slowly eliciting more smiles via spells were no small victories.

They walked slowly back the the front gates of Skyhold, their arms interlaced the whole way as they walked through forming mud and listened to the sound of the rain. Water rolled down the sides of the summoned umbrella, hitting their shoulders on occasion, but not enough for either of them to care. The bottom of Kiora's robe was a little covered in mud from where she wasn't hiking it up, and her flat, dainty shoes weren't exactly made for walking through the damp outdoors.

The guards by the front entrance both seemed to breathe sighs of relief when they saw Kiora and Sera walk up the the gates, likely quite thankful that the two hadn't gotten lost in the rain.

"Hey. Hey tadwinks," Sera said, grinning as they made their way to Kiora's room, the umbrella finally dematerialized. Kiora looked over, raising a messy black eyebrow. "Your little Fade-y umbrella was good, but I'm still all wet."

"Really? I-" Kiora stopped herself when she noticed Sera's smirk. "Sera!" She hissed, trying not to laugh at the stupid joke.

"You think I'm funny," Sera grinned, triumphant.

"Oh, shush," Kiora said, waving a hand as she smiled, laying her elfroot out on the windowsill. She'd dry and finish up the task tomorrow, as it was getting late. She shook her head a little, trying to put off a sleeping spell she could feel coming on. Not moving much, the sound of the rain on the windows, and the fatigue from walking so much was starting to weigh down on her. She yawned, trying to avoid rubbing her eyes and further smearing her dark purple eyeshadow.

"You ready to turn in, tadwinks?" Sera asked, sitting on the bed, legs crossed and leaning forward. "I'll go grab your nightie," she laughed softly, rolling her pretty eyes. Kiora nodded, making her way over to the bed and just barely managing to crawl on top of it.

She groaned, rolling over onto her back, working to slowly wiggle her way out of her robes as her limbs began to take on lead-like weight. She was thankful her and Dorian didn't share similar tastes in robes, and that hers were relatively easy to remove. "Thanks... sunshine," she mumbled, smiling sleepily as she worked her way into the nightgown Sera handed her.

"No problem," Sera responded. "Here," she said, bending over with a wet washcloth to wipe off Kiora's makeup. As crass and immature as Sera could be, it was impossible to call her uncaring. She helped Kiora get under the covers, snuggling close as soon as she had tossed her clothes to the wayside.

Kiora gave her a kiss, missing her lips by an inch and planting her lips on Sera's chin. Sera quickly corrected her and kissed her chastely on the lips. Kiora could feel the left over dampness in her hair, the coolness a pleasant contrast to the hot, humid air.

"Night," she mumbled, wrapping a heavy arm around Sera's small, elven frame.

"Night," Sera said back, pressing her body closer. The sound of rain hitting the glass outside and Sera's steady breathing kept her company as she stepped again into the Fade.

[samwise-writes]

Surprise

Eloise Trevelyan x Cullen Rutherford

Because apparently I’m a sucker for the moment where ‘it’ begins

Eloise returns from Redcliffe with the rebel mages in tow. She just really wants some rest.

~ *Whispers* fluff and blushing commander because that is my weakness ~

No warnings 

Number 2 from this prompt list

Her breath pushed past her lips in a drawn-out sigh. She was exhausted and wanted nothing more than to curl up in the silent solitude that was her cabin.

Eloise had difficulty in the first months, sleeping in such a solid space. At first the walls had felt just as oppressive as the bars on the cell they had kept her in. No breezes brushing across her face, the starlight unable to break through the curtains that were pulled against the window panes. But she had begun to grow accustomed to the quiet that accompanied those walls.

She could accept the stifling closed-off-ness of the cabin if it meant that she got quiet.

She began the dreaded trek from the chantry, keeping her head down, trying to act like the eyes that followed her wherever she went didn’t make her skin crawl.

She counted each of her footsteps, the new dusting of snow that decorated the gravel path making a soft crunching sound with every step gained. Despite the tired droop to her shoulders she walked with determination. Eloise realized with slight surprise, that for the first time, she was happy to have returned to Haven.

She tried to keep her steps measured as her cabin came into sight, she did not want to appear as though she was fleeing from something. She felt her exhaustion settle further into her limbs with every inch she closed between herself and the door. 

Once the blessed door was secured behind her she let out another long sigh, this time it was tinged with contentment.

Her eyes swept over the small space. Someone had come and started the fire so that the biting cold that had followed her through the door was soon banished. She made a mental note to mention to Josephine that she greatly appreciated that and hoped it could be something that would continue in the future. There was very little she felt comfortable asking for from the exceedingly kind ambassador and her people, but this was one little luxury she would allow for herself.

She walked over to the bed, dropping down ungracefully, and reaching for the ties on her well-worn boots. Her tired fingers fumbled with them at first, but they were practiced in the actions and she made quick work of them anyway. She toed them off, kicking them to the end of her bed, and began undoing her leather armor. Her jacket slipped off, and her rolled her shoulders a few times, untucking her tunic so that it hung loose about her frame. Next, she undid the braided bun, running her hand through it until it hung in its full length past her shoulders. She sat back down on the bed, and considered her leather leggings for a moment. After short contemplation Eloise decided that it would be too much effort to remove them from her body.

She flopped down so she was sprawled across her bed haphazardly. She let out a contented groan and made the decision to remain there, until the end of her days.

Bugger the Inquisition, they can find a new Herald. She thought sleepily.

A loud repeated banging pulled her out of her cloudy satisfaction. She blinked a few times up at the roof, puzzled at the unfamiliar sound .

It sounded again. Someone was knocking at her door.

“Andraste’s knickers,” she swore quietly.

With a large amount of effort she pulled herself up to a sitting postion, and then to a reletivley wobbly standing position, swearing again she tried to shake the sleep that had just about overtaken her, from her bones.

She moved quickly over to the door, yanking it open.

“Yes?” She said impatiently, before the door had even revealed who had disturbed her blessed alone time.

She was faced with a very stunned looking Commander. She blinked at him a few times as he stood in silence, eyes slightly wider than normal, taking in her appearance.

She let out a huff.

“Not you again…” She mumbled quietly.

She didn’t mean for him to hear her less than kind words, but he snapped back into action at the sound of her voice. He cleared his throat.

“Ah, yes. Me… again. I apologize for disturbing you, Herald, but I was hoping to have a word with you, alone.”

She stared at him, dejected. She watched as some colour spread across his cheeks, and he cleared his throat for a second time. He proceeded to avert his eyes to the ground, suddenly very interested in something by his feet.

She tilted her head to the side, intrigued. She had never seen the Commander as anything but either frustrated, exasperated or, well… Commanding.

“Very well.” She said quietly, moving out of the way so that the tall man could step inside.

He met her eyes again and nodded his thanks as he passed her. She shut the door quickly.

Turning to face him she steeled herself, she squared her shoulders and stood up straighter. She started speaking before he could bulldoze her with his facts and thoughts.

“I understand the you were not pleased with the decision I made in Redcliffe, but I stand by it. I believe I made the best decision I could have in the situation we were in. I am sorry that we could not get the templars as well as the mages, but unfortunately that seems to be the way things will have to go.”

She met his gaze once she finished speaking nodding her head once to punctuate her certainty.

The Commander stood there, mouth slightly open, surprise on his features once again.

He snapped out of it quickly, collecting his thoughts.

“I suppose I was rather… loud with my displeasure at the situation, earlier in the War Room, so I likely did not express all my thoughts clearly.” He paused for a moment, “I think you did an admirable job at Redcliffe, you made a difficult decision that needed to be made. You made a call, and we will all stand behind you in it.”

His stance relaxed slightly as he paused again, letting out a small breath, and running one hand through his hair, in a gesture that spoke volumes of the exhaustion the heavily armored man was likely feeling.

“But that is not why I came. I did not want to argue with you. I came to check on you.”

“Check on me?” She asked dubiously.

“Yes…” Colour spread across his cheeks again, but he continued to meet her gaze, “I wanted to check on you to see how you were doing.”

She felt her stance relax slightly, she was taken off-guard. She wrapped her arms around her body, in a protective gesture, she wasn’t even fully aware of, gazing back at the Commander.

“From your report, as well as the Tevinter mage’s – Dorian’s? – report, what you two experienced in the future you were sent to…” he trailed off. He seemed at a loss for words.

She considered him carefully for a moment. She was confused at his concern for her. She wondered briefly if it were some kind of trap, to get her to show a weakness, so that he could remove what little power she had – but she dismissed the thought immediately. What she knew about the commander was that he was stubborn, and imperious at times when it came to his beliefs about magic, and disagreed with her on mostly everything, but he had little patience for two faced dealings like the ones she had experienced before leaving home. That was confirmed over and over when he would suggest helping the people, rather than ungrateful nobles that would reach out to the leaders, and in the times that he would become exasperated when Leliana would suggest underhanded schemes to gain favour for the fledgling Inquisition.

She decided that she thought of him as a good man, despite how annoying she often found him and his constant arguing.

She licked her lips, trying to find words for the way she felt about that particular experience.

“I’m not sure… that I’ve necessarily processed it just yet.” She spoke finally, turning away from him and moving to sit at the edge of her bed.

He watched her silently, waiting for her to continue.

“I haven’t really had time to think about it – not that I’ve wanted to.” She let out a humourless laugh. “But… I think I will be alright. Everyone is alright. For now. I just need to continue reminding myself of that fact.”

“Have you slept?” He prodded gently, his voice quiet.

She met his gaze again. It wasn’t a question she really wanted to answer.

“I don’t often sleep much on the road, so if I appear tired, that is likely why.”

Eloise was evading the question. They both knew it. She watched concern and disbelief flash across his face. He struggle silently with something for a moment. Eloise held her breath hoping that he would decide not to push the issue.

He didn’t. He didn’t want to scare her off from this delicate trust she seemed to place in him, when he had done nothing to deserve it.

“I suppose,” he began, “I should leave you be then, I seem to have, ah… interrupted your rest.” He swallowed hard and diverted his eyes again, glancing around the cabin.

She watched him, slightly confused again.

“That’s alright.” She said softly. “I… appreciate you checking in on me.”

His eyes snapped back to hers. He cleared his throat, making a split second decision he hoped he wouldn’t regret later.

“If you ever feel the need to talk about what happened… or about anything… please don’t hesitate to come see me.”

She was once again startled into silence. She gaped at him, and scrambled about in her head for words. He was the last person she would have expected such an offer from.

“Oh… well… I, ah…” She forced herself to stop talking to collect her thoughts, and she noticed he winced at her sudden quiet, one hand had snaked up around to rub the back of his neck, his eyes on the floor.

“I wouldn’t want to disturb you…” She said hesitantly.

She waited for him to look at her.

“That is, you always seem so busy with missives and training the soldiers I would not want to be a bother. You have enough on your plate as it is… no?”

She thought she saw a hopeful gleam to his eyes as he straightened, his hands coming back to rest on the pommel of his sword, as they so often did.

“I would welcome the distraction… and the company.”

She tried to mask her surprise, and after a moment a small smile spread across his face.

She let out a startled laugh, the sound loud in the quiet of her cabin.

“You should do that more often.” She said without thinking.

He raised his eyebrows, “What’s that?”

She realized it was too late to retreat now.

“Smile.” She said simply, standing and walking past him, so she wasn’t looking at him as she continued, “It makes you look rather kind… and handsome.”

She heard a small choking noise from behind her, as she opened the door slowly, waiting a moment before turning back to him.

He had stopped mid turn, and she could see his face was burning.

It was her turn to nearly choke when he turned fully to her again, and smiled at her again, shyly, but wider this time.

“You should do that more often,” He said softly as he came to a stop in front of her.

Her breath caught as she looked up at him, smiling down at her.

“What’s that?” She asked mimicking his earlier question.

He looked hesitant for a moment before reaching out and brushing some of her hair behind her ear, “Wear your hair down. It is quite beautiful.”

Eloise felt her mouth fall open into an ‘O’ and she felt, for the first time that evening, standing there with the cold breeze sweeping through the open door, that her cabin was too warm.

She watched as his smile grew even more, some of the shyness falling away into a quiet confidence.

“Good night, Herald. Feel free to come ‘bother’ me, if you have the want or need.”

With that he nodded to her and turned and walked out of the dim light of her cabin into the dark night.

Eloise watched for a moment, mesmerized by the way the light from the two moons reflected and danced across his armor.

She shook herself awake again, closing the door, and falling against it. She slid down, until she was sitting and staring unseeingly into the center of the room.

What just happened?

[thevikingwoman]

Hay 6

I made up a Dalish festival for this chapter, and I also used some Dalish words and phrases for my own purposes.

Source of the words/phrases are the DA wiki entry on Elvhen language.

Din’al – the death gathering (din: death, ‘al: gather) Enansal (blessing) Enansan Din’al – Gathering for blessing of the dead. Sa'vunin Lethallen – Next day with friends. (sa'vunin: one more time, lethallen: friend) las – grant, hamin - peace

Fandom: Dragon Age. Words: 2816 (this part)

Beginning | Part 5 ||  Start on ao3 | read this on ao3 || Part 7

Iwyn Lavellan x Solas | modern AU | romance Rating: Teen (this part.Overall explicit). Family, holidays, made-up Dalish traditions.

Chapter 6

Iwyn’s phone is vibrating on the shelf. It vibrates again. It’s probably Raina, with well wishes for the holiday. Or maybe it’s Solas. She smiles, and turns to get it, but her mother calls her.

“Help me in the kitchen, Iwyn. Branwen can light the candles.”

“Coming.”

She hands her brother the matches, and he lights more candles. In the tradition of Enansal Din’al there are some on every surface where it’s safe – and some Iwyn deems a little questionable on the bookshelf.

Her phone buzzes once again behind her, but she is already in the kitchen. Her mother is slicing lemons and has two trays and three bowls out, and some dough rising in the corner. The kitchen is warm and familiar, and there are candles in the windowsill. It’s like every Din’al always, in the best way.

“Where’s papae? Did he go with grandmamae and grandpapae on their walk?”

Branwen picked up her grandparents on his way from the farm, they all arrived last night. She washes her hands, and starts chopping the herbs her mom points at.

“He went to pick up a cake at a bakery.”

“I could have brought something on my way here.”

“There is a new Dalish one on 5th St, I wanted to try it. Besides, I think he wanted to stop by Ellan and drop off some of his spirits too.”

“A new Dalish bakery?”

“Well, the proprietor is Dalish, I believe. I don’t know if they do proper hearthbread, but we can make that ourselves.”

“Why aren’t they closed today?”

Most Dalish are celebrating the holiday, and most businesses are closed in Wycome. With the large Dalish population everyone relishes the chance of two extra days of vacation.

“I guess they need the business. I think they close early, though.”

Iwyn nods, and scrapes the herbs into the tiny glass bowl.

“What’s next?”

“Can you do the carrots?”

There is plenty more to do, and it’s much later when she finally remembers her phone. The carrots are roasting in the oven and the fish is ready to cook. Her grandparents and her dad are back, and he has poured wine for them all. She sinks into the couch next to her grandmother. Her grandparents ask about her job, and how proud they are of her. She doesn’t think it’s that special, but they’re her grandparents. Then the talk drift to Branwen and the farm, and the plans he has. They are good plans, but she’s heard most of it, and takes a moment to check her phone.

There is a message from Raina, as she expected, and two from Solas. She opens Raina’s first.

[Happy holidays, Las Hamin]

[Las Hamin Din’al. See you tomorrow!], she replies.

Raina doesn’t reply, as expected. She is busy celebrating with her own family.

Next, she reads Solas’ messages.

[Iwyn, I wanted to tell you I have been offered the job at Wycome, and I intend to accept. They want me to start in Wintermarch, right after First Day.]

[I assume you are celebrating the holiday. Las Hamin Din’al Enansal, Iwyn. Talk to you later.]

He got the job! He is moving to Wycome? Three more months, and he will live here. She feels hot all over. It has been a few weeks with lots of texting, and longing, and calling. She misses him more than before, but he accepted, and she’ll be able to see him a lot, to have him sleep in her bed, to –

“What are you smiling about, Iwyn?” Branwen asks. “You’re looking at your phone like you won the lottery.”

“It’s nothing.”

“Doesn’t look like nothing.”

“It’s none of your business.”

“But it’s something.”

“Yes, it’s something.”

“Looks like happy news. You should share.”

“We always want to hear happy news, dear,” Grandmamae says.

“Branwen!”

Her brother smirks at her.

“I’m seeing someone, and he just told me he got a job in Wycome. He lives in Jader right now.”

It’s not like it’s a secret.

“Solas? Since when are you seeing him?”

This is why it’s a secret.

“For some time now.”

“That’s lovely, Iwyn,” Grandmamae says, “How did you meet? What does he do?”

“Solas is the guy who purchased Mythal’s house. He’s my neighbor, but he doesn’t live there.” Branwen replies. “I suppose he met Iwyn this summer, though I’d no idea they were dating.”

“Who’s dating?“ her mother asks, as she returns from the kitchen.

It’s going to be a very long family dinner.

--

In the end it’s not that bad. Her grandparents are happy for her, if she is happy then they are. And she is happy. She can’t help the warmth in her chest when she talks about Solas. Branwen says Solas is nice enough, even he does seem a little aloof. Her parents are happy for her too, and they want to meet him. She isn’t sure she wants them to, not yet, but maybe at some point. If he lives in Wycome, it’s inevitable and it would be nice to have him here, with her family. The lights are melting, and she is full and happy and maybe a little tipsy from her dad’s spirits. She wants Solas with her now, leaning up against him on her parent’s couch.

She misses him terribly.

She’s already snuck in a quick message of congrats and cheering, but she wants to talk to him. Does he have a place to live? Does he plan on moving here before his job starts? They’ve been talking and texting often, but they haven’t really talked about what would happen if he moved here. He didn’t say anything, and she didn’t want to pressure him. But now it’s settled there are so many things they could do, and so many more they need to figure out.

Later, when her grandparents have gone to sleep, and she’s escaped to foldout bed in her mom’s office – she’s drunk too much to go home and her own old room has been converted to a guest room long ago – she finally has time to talk to Solas.

[Hey, are you awake?]

[I am now.]

[Sorry! I didn’t mean wake you! I’ll call tomorrow.]

He is typing, and then he isn’t. She thinks he might have fallen asleep, but then his name pop up on the phone. She picks up.

“Hi Solas. Congrats, I’m so happy you accepted the offer. And I hope I didn’t really wake you up.”

She doesn’t want to be a nuisance, or expect him to call and text her at all hours.

“It is fine, Iwyn. I was only halfway asleep. And thank you. Did you have a good celebration?”

“Yes, it was real nice. Everyone wants to meet you.”

“Everyone?”

She can see his raised eyebrows in her mind, and she giggles a little.

“My grandmamae and grandpapae were here. Well, they’re still here, just sleeping. And mamae and papae. Branwen you’ve already met. I… they figured it out when I was excited over your message. I hope you don’t mind. You don’t have to meet them immediately, or before you want to or—”

“It’s fine, Iwyn.“ He chuckles a little, and she feels warm. “So, you’re excited?”

“Yes, I am. Quite a bit. I hoped you would take the job here, of course. I miss you, Solas. I can’t wait to see you more often.”

“Ah. I wasn’t – I miss you too, Iwyn.”

“I didn’t want to influence your decision, Solas. I want the job to be nice. I hope it will be, that the offer was good.”

“Thank you. It was as expected. Academic jobs don’t tend to compete on salaries. But the position itself should offer me more research opportunities than in Jasper. The head of the department has an… interesting collection of artifacts.”

Iwyn flops down on her bed, listing to his voice.

“Good. That’s good.”

“I suspect you didn’t want to talk about ancient elven artifacts, though.”

He chuckles again, and she wishes she had her head on his chest.

“I like hearing about that stuff. But yeah. I wanted to congratulate you and – when do you think you’ll move? Do you know where you’ll live? And I just wanted to hear your voice.”

“I don’t know when I will move, but I would like to be settled a week or so before First Day. That should give me time. I’m not sure where I will live. I’d hope to get your opinion on where to look. And maybe – maybe help me look at apartments.”

“I’d like to. I’ll think – I’ll think of where makes sense.” She wants him to not be too far from where she lives, and he wants to be close to his work at the University.

“Thank you. I hope to come for three or four days to look at places. You could go with me. I’d like your opinion, if you don’t mind.”

“That would be lovely, Solas. I’d love to help.”

I love you, she wants to say, but she’s not drunk enough to do so. She’d like to tell him to his face, and soon he’ll be here. It’ll still be too early though. She’ll have to wait.

“I appreciate that, Iwyn. I haven’t settled the exact dates, is there any that would work for you?”

Anytime. Now. Tomorrow.

“I don’t have a lot of plans coming up. I usually spend Santalia with my family. I don’t know if we’ll go to the farm this year, now that Branwen lives there. But we might? So around that time I’m not sure, but otherwise I’m here.”

“I see. I’ve no desire to battle the airport mobs at Santalia in any case, but maybe after will work.”

“Sounds good. I’m looking forward to seeing you. Very much.”

“Me too… Iwyn.” He makes some sort of noise she can’t place, and goes on, “I’ll look at dates this week and see what I can arrange.”

“Stay at my place,” she blurts out. “No need for a hotel. If you want to, that is. If you don’t that’s fine too, if you don’t feel comfort –”

“I’d love to stay with you for the trip, Iwyn. That does make it easier… and more interesting.”

Good. Her heart beats faster.

“Interesting, how?”

“Are you alone?”

“I’m at my parents, but everyone is asleep. I think.”

“Let’s hope so…”

--

The next day, while her parents and grandparents have the somber task of visiting the dead, Iwyn makes her way to Raina’s house. She managed to get out of the house before Branwen asked any more questions. He has formed opinions on his vacationing neighbor; she’s sure. She’ll take as a good sign that he trusts Solas enough to let him help him with the farm.

Raina usually hosts Sa'vunin Lethallen, the next day gathering of friends and younger couples. Raina has a whole house she inherited from her grandmother and she fills it easily with her many friends and friends of friends. Sometimes it seems like she’s connected to half the Dalish Wycome. The house is always bustling full of happy people and delicious food at festival time.

Raina has gone all out this year, the entryway to her house is littered with melted candles. They can’t stand up to rain, but every third one is an electric one, so all in all it gives an effect of real candles fighting against the wind.

Raina opens the door before Iwyn knocks, perfect red lips and bouncy curls. She pulls Iwyn into a hug.

“Come in, it’s raining. You’re the first. Did you bring the dough?”

“The candles look great. I love it Raina.” Iwyn pulls off her winter boots, and hangs up her coat. “The dough is in the red bag. It needs to rise a little more.”

“Great! Come in, come in. And thanks, I really like the candles. Wait till you see the living room. “

Iwyn follows Raina through the hallway and into the living room. She stops and takes in everything. Raina has put fairy light nets under the ceiling, all of them wrapped in tree branches. There are more electric candles everywhere, and a garland of colored leaves at the old fireplace. It’s burning brightly.

“Amazing. You’ve outdone yourself this year.”

Iwyn snaps a couple of pictures, she wants to show Solas.

Raina has already put the dough out on the kitchen table with a towel over it, and Iwyn unloads the rest of her bag on the tall bar separating the kitchen from the living room. A bottle of Dalish spirits, courtesy of her father. Two halla cheeses from the farm, a jar of spicy nuts she roasted yesterday and some olives she found on sale. There is already a batch of brownies and tray of Ferelden and Orlesian cheeses, and she decides to add the halla cheeses to the plate.

“Let me fold the dough,” Iwyn says, as the doorbell rings.

Raina nods and heads to let people in.  

It doesn’t take long for the home to fill with people, and the table filled with food. Everyone is chatting, catching up, and eating. Iwyn returns to the kitchen and starts rolling out the hearthbreads.

“Yay, bread!” someone yells from the back.

“You can do the next batch,” she yells back. It’s some tall dark-haired guy she doesn’t know. Normally she wouldn’t be above flirting a little, but now she just misses Solas. The house is full of elves, her friends, acquaintances, friends of friends. It’s the holiday tradition, and even if Solas isn’t Dalish, she wants to share it with him. He wonders if he likes hearthbread, and if he’s ever had it fresh and homemade. She imagines him here, in the house, in the kitchen. Maybe he’d put his arms around her, kiss her neck --  

“Where are you off to?” Raina asks. Iwyn didn’t even hear her enter the kitchen.

“I’m here.”

“Your mind was elsewhere.”

Iwyn puts the bread on the baking sheet, and takes another ball of dough.

“I was just… missing someone.”

“The boyfriend. The mysterious, brilliant boyfriend in Jasper.”

“Yes, Solas. I wish he were here.”

“So, things are going well?”

Raina grabs her own ball of dough and rolls it out. Iwyn has told Raina most of it, but maybe not that she’s already in love. She’s barely told herself.

“Very well.” She can’t help grinning. “He’s moving here. He got a job offer from the University, and decided to take it.”

“That’s awesome.” Raina is smiling, and Iwyn knows she means it. Iwyn hopes Solas will get along with her, but then again, very few people don’t get along with her friend.

“Did he move here for you?” she continues, “that’s very romantic.”

“No, he didn’t. I mean I don’t think so. He was already looking for the job here, that’s how I ran into him again.”

“Yes, after a month of pining.”

“I didn’t pine.”

“Sure.” Raina grins, and Iwyn doesn’t argue. Her friend is a more than a little right. “I’ve never heard so much about a summer fling. I’m glad he is moving here, and I can meet him, and I’m happy he makes you happy. He better make you happy. When is he moving? Where will he live?”

Iwyn takes the first batch of bread out of the oven and puts the next in.

“I don’t know where he will live. He asked me to look with him. I’ve no idea what his budget is, but I assume he wants to love close to the University campus.”

“Or maybe he want’s to live close to you.”

“He is moving for the job. I didn’t want to pressure him.”

“I get it, and I don’t get it. It’s a lot of pressure, but you can’t just wait around for people. Sometimes you have to, you know, move them a bit.”

Iwyn nods, and makes bread.

“Oh, do you know Lisa? She does real estate. Rentals too. I’ll send you her info.” Raina pulls out her phone, and scrolls through her contacts. “Unless he just moves into your place. Might be easiest and your place is pretty big. Found her! There you go.”

“Thank you. I don’t think – I’m not quite sure I’m ready to have him move in.”

“Well, it does bring some advantages.” Raina waggles her eyebrows, or attempts to. It’s silly, and Iwyn laughs. It would bring advantages. Waking up in his arms, staying in together. She might never get to work though. Not to mention they don’t know each other well enough. People don’t just move in, do they?

“Mmmm, this is so good. Your mom’s recipe is the best.” Raina rips another piece of hearthbread, and dips it in honey.

It’s enough for others to descend on the kitchen and the bread, and Iwyn snatches a piece for herself before they’re all gone.