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imdoingaokay · 2 years

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if you’re doing dragon age requests: dai companions reacting to an inquiz asking if they need a hug. bonus points if it’s because they (inquisitor) noticed the companion was looking sad or tired, or because they’ve just been through something difficult (say, after one of their personal quests). thank you :)

Oh my dear anon.

I been waiting for this one.

I have spent literal nights working on this bad boy and lemme tell you if you don't like it illliterallystartcryingohmygod

Anyways, here you go babe <3

Blackwall/Thom Rainer: It was strange, honestly. Being Thom Rainer again. It felt almost wrong. He was thankful for the Inquisitor, their kindness. They could’ve left him, let him pay. But they didn’t. Somehow, they even forgave him.

It made him feel, free, in a way. Not just physically, with all the chains being taken off. But there was a metaphorical weight taken off his shoulders. Just now, he felt guilty for his lies.

“Blackw- I mean, Rainer.” A familiar voice called for him, pulling him away from the wood he worked on.

“Ah, Inquisitor-”

“Please, call me by my name.”

Rainer paused, before letting the name of the Inquisitor fall from his lips.

“Thank you, I like my name, I’d like to keep it.” The Inquisitor smiled, and Rainer smiled back.

“It suits you.” Rainer chuckled.

“I could say the same to you, Rainer.” The Inquisitor responded, catching him off guard.

Before Rainer could respond, the Inquisitor spoke quietly, “I’ve forgiven you, you know.”

And soon enough, Rainer was wrapped in a tight hug. And while he still felt as though he wasn’t worthy of such care and affection, he was going to make himself worthy.

But for now, he’ll be fine with the hug, wrapping his own arms around the Inquisitor.

Cassandra: It started when Cassandra snapped at the Inquisitor. She wouldn’t admit it, but she was still upset. Upset about the betrayal of her superior, upset about the death of her comrades. And she had taken it out on the Inquisitor.

She was thankful for the quiet camp that followed, and how spaced out the tents were. She didn’t know if she could face the Inquisitor just yet.

“I hope you know I’m not upset with you.” It didn’t matter if she could or couldn’t.

“Wh-Oh. I do apolog-”

“Cassandra, it’s okay. You’ve been through a lot in the past few weeks.” The Inquisitor comforted her, placing a hand on Cassandra’s back.

“I-” She had hesitated, wondering if she should pull away or stay. In her turmoil, the Inquisitor wrapped an arm around her shoulders. Cassandra turned to look at them before enveloping them in a hug.

“Thank you.” She said, and she meant it.

Cole: Cole was quiet, his thoughts had been more mixed up as of late. Sometimes he was quiet, sometimes he was loud. But he felt more at peace. It felt better to be out of limbo, but was he on the right side?

“Cole? I was looking for you, I wanted to check in.” The Inquisitor said as they climbed the tavern stairs.

“Oh, h-hello.” Cole responded, “I think I’m okay.”

“Really? That’s good.”

“Grey, muddled, furrowing your brow… you don’t believe me.” Cole looked down, a little dejected.

“I guess it’s hard to believe you’d be doing okay after everything that had happened.” The Inquisitor frowned, “I just want you to know, I’m here. And I wanted to ask if you wanted a hug.”

Cole paused, lifting his gaze to the Inquisitor. He opened his arms and they did the same.

“Warm, protected, so small, still young? I deserved more. I must be protected.” He said, reading the mind of his Inquisitor.

“Hey… just enjoy the hug, alright?” The Inquisitor replied.

“A-Alright.”

Cullen Rutherford: Scribbling down more missives, Cullen’s head throbbed. Lyrium or no lyrium, life was not easy for the former templar. He was so entrenched in the paperwork, he didn’t notice the door slowly open.

“Cullen?” The Inquisitor asked, curious about their friend.

“Ah, Inquisitor, I apologize. I was… busy.” Cullen looked up, sighing at the heap of papers littering his desk.

“I could always get a soldier or two to help you.” The Inquisitor suggested.

“Maker, no. They never do it right, and their handwriting is awful.” Cullen sighed, his fingers pinching the bridge of his nose, “Regardless, is there something I can do for you?”

“I just wanted to check in on you, after everything.” The Inquisitor asked, “I know we talked but…”

“Me? I am fine, doing much better.” Cullen smiled at the Inquisitor’s concern, he stood up to meet the Inquisitor infront of his desk.

“Good, I need my commander in tip-top shape.” The Inquisitor playfully punched Cullen’s shoulder.

“I’ll try…” Cullen laughed gently, gazing at the paperwork he still had to do.

“Why don’t I help? I’ve done this before.” The Inquisitor smiled, Cullen hesitated, wanting to say no, that the Inquisitor deserved rest, but the offer of help was too tempting.

Luckily, he did say yes. And no less than an hour later, the pair was done with the remaining papers.

“Do you mind doing all my paperwork from now on?” Cullen asked, the Inquisitor standing up and stretching.

“Not really, but I think you’ll mind more.” The Inquisitor joked, “But… I wanted to tell you… you work so much, I want you to know… how much I appreciate it.” The Inquisitor spoke gently.

“Oh, you don’t need to-”

“No, I need to. You deserve that much.” The Inquisitor spoke, and wrapped their arms around Cullen.

Cullen felt strange, a good type of strange. Being a templar meant… not many hugs. The last one he had gotten… was it from his family? He hadn’t seen them in ages… perhaps…

“Cullen. Stop overthinking this.” The Inquisitor ordered, and the commander quickly wrapped his arms around them.

He liked this.

Dorian Pavus: He was reading some cheesy Orlesian drama, and he heard footsteps climbing up the stairs, he had expected it to be one of the many messengers of the Inquisition, and was surprised when he saw the Inquisitor instead.

“I… I wanted to check up on you.” They said.

“What is there to check up on? I’m alive, aren’t I? Downed a few bottles of wine, but hey, don’t we all?” Dorian retorted.

“Dorian, I know you aren’t okay. I just wanted to make sure if there was anything I could do. You’re my friend. Probably one of my closest friends.” The Inquisitor responded.

“You? Friends with some devious little boy from the Imperium? My, what would Mother Giselle say?” Dorian deflected, but he was still touched by their declaration.

“Dorian.” The Inquisitor spoke sternly, causing Dorian to look up.

“I… Thank you… I… I appreciate your friendship.” Dorian spoke, turning towards the Inquisitor.

The two looked at each other for a moment before The Inquisitor opened their arms, and wordlessly, Dorian entered the warm embrace of his friend.

Iron Bull: The tavern was full, but it still felt lonely.

He cursed himself for looking to the Inquisitor for judgment, he should’ve decided. The chargers were his men, but so was the Qunari. Had he failed them?

Iron Bull could hear approaching steps and distinctly recognized them as the Inquisitor.

“Hey, Boss.” He smiled, only to see a sad smile on the Inquisitor’s face.

“I wanted to talk with you.” They said, and Iron Bull followed them out of the tavern.

The two rested on the Battlements, luckily, there weren’t any soldiers around to disturb the two.

“I wanted to let you know I’m here.” The Inquisitor said, “You lost someone today, lost… a part of yourself.” The Inquisitor spoke.

“Oh, you don’t need to worry about that, Boss. I’m fine.” Iron Bull smiled. But the Inquisitor saw right through that.

“Still, I’m sorry. I wanted to offer you…” The Inquisitor opened their arms, holding them out.

Iron Bull was confused for a moment, before hesitantly wrapping his arms around the Inquisitor. It was a gentle hug, one Iron Bull wasn’t entirely used to, but he felt some sort of relief when he relaxed into it.

The Qunari would eventually wage war on Ferelden and Orlais, and Iron Bull felt a sad pity in his heart for his oblivious Inquisitor.

But, he didn’t need to think of that. Not at the moment.

Josephine Montilyet: Another letter from Yvette, detailing how the family had been getting on without her. Josephine had been successful for the most part, with the assassins now off her back, she was happily able to begin rebuilding her family’s trading empire.

“You look pleased.” Josephine heard the door to her office be opened.

“Oh, yes! I cannot thank you enough for your help with the House of Repose, it is a relief knowing I won’t need to worry about assassins anymore. Of course, rebuilding the Montilyet name will be difficult, but not impossible.” She got up from her chair, smoothing her skirt before moving away from the desk.

“I don’t think I properly thanked you, all I did was ramble about my time as a bard.” She sighed, “It must’ve sounded, odd to you.”

“Quite the opposite, Josephine, and I wanted to apologize to you if I gave you that impression.” The Inquisitor said, their hands moving to Josephine’s shoulders, “You know I care for you right? When you talk about things, it makes me happy.”

Josephine didn’t know what to say, she found herself wrapping her arms around the Inquisitor as a response. Josephine was someone who rarely found a person who wanted to hear her talk. Who wanted to hear her ramble.

The Inquisitor was that person… she liked it.

Leliana: A quiet prayer to the altar in front of her, she almost didn’t hear the Inquisitor behind her. Luckily, she’s a spymaster for a reason, so she turned to face the Inquisitor right before they have begun to speak.

“Are you okay?” They said, leaning over to get a view of the altar.

“I’m fine, you don’t need to concern yourself with my state,” Leliana responded, standing up and walking over to the railing, watching the birds flap their wings.

“You’re my advisor, I have to worry about you.” The Inquisitor crossed their arms, looking up at the birds themselves.

Leliana paused, turned to The Inquisitor, and smiled, “I suppose I’m happy that it was you who became our inquisitor. You’ve done an excellent job.” She spoke.

“I feel like you need to hear that too.” The Inquisitor said, earning a silent Leliana. Leliana turned to The Inquisitor, hesitant to continue speaking, when was the last time she had been this vulnerable? The two stared at one another before the Inquisitor opened their arms, and the two silent began to hug. The pair said nothing, the two remaining silent while they hugged, but strangely, more was communicated than they expected. Words of praise, appreciation, sorrow, and just a little bit of platonic affection.

Sera: She was working on her arrows, angrily wrapping the twine around the sharp point. A knock at her door caught her off guard. She didn’t respond, allowing her silence to be an invitation.

“Sorry for intruding.” Sera heard the Inquisitor say, closing the door behind them.

“You don’t need to be,” Sera grumbled.

“Well, I know you’re upset, I assume it’s about the-”

“Prissy pants noble arse? Yeah, I ‘ppose you could say I’m pissed.” She snapped, turning around to face her friend. Her angry look melted, and her eyes dropped from the Inquisitor’s face to the floor.

It was silent for a while before the two spoke in unison.

“I’m sorry.” They said, only to look at each other before the two broke into a laugh.

“No, but seriously. I feel bad about how everything went…” The Inquisitor said.

“Sorry for snapping.” Sera sighed, she was surprised she was apologizing to Inky, as she had rarely apologized to anyone.

“Can I sit?” The Inquisitor asked, getting a nod in response.

“I didn’t mean for all that shite to happen, I thought sometin’ else.” Sera said, shrugging.

“It’s not your fault, you know?” The Inquisitor responded, wrapping an arm around Sera. Sera tensed up for a second, but when her friend began to pull away, worried they upset her, she pulled them back in.

Hugging Inky was nice, she thought.

Solas: Solas mourned his friend quietly, like he did most things. He sighed as he sat in his oversized chair, watching the tea in front of him. He was angry at the world he woke up into, mad at the mages for hurting the spirits he cared for, and mad at himself for not stopping it sooner. He wondered if he should be mad at the Inquisitor too, he could’ve gotten there sooner had they hurried up-

A quick curse and he stood up, how could he blame someone else? Someone who had actively helped him? How could-

“Solas?” He heard, turning to the door that led from the great hall to his rotunda.

“Inquisitor.” Solas breathed, it was almost like the Inquisitor had read his mind.

“I apologize for intruding, I just… wanted to check on you, after everything that happened…” The Inquisitor spoke slowly, fiddling with their hands.

“Inquisitor, you don’t need to” Solas began, only to be cut off.

“Solas, I should’ve- I should’ve been faster. Maybe if we didn’t take that trail, if we didn’t get so distracted by the halla, your friend… they… they would’ve been.”

Solas sighed if he felt bad before, but he felt worse now.

Walking over to The Inquisitor, he attempted to comfort them, but he found himself stopping short.

“I know this must be hard for you, losing a friend. I want you to know, I’m here for you.” They said, smiling at him. Solas was surprised, and before he knew it, he was wrapped up in a bear hug.

“Thank you… my friend.” He responded.

Varric Tethras: Cleaning Bianca should be like therapy, but it felt like torture at the moment. He was angry, hurt, and betrayed, it felt like the world was crashing on his shoulders. He kept asking himself about Bianca, the “real” Bianca. Why did he keep going back to her? Why did she keep coming back to him? Why does Red Lyrium keep coming into his life?

“Hey, Varric, you okay? You’ve been scrubbing that spot for an hour at least.” Varric heard a familiar voice behind him.

“Uh, yeah, I’m fine.” He said, quickly moving to another spot on Bianca.

“Normally, you’re a good liar.” He heard the Inquisitor laugh. Varric chuckled a little in response, turning to his friend.

“I guess I’m off today.” He shrugged.

“You’ve been off ever since-” The Inquisitor stopped themselves, “Varric, do you need a hug?”

Varric paused, he had to think about it for a bit, but he found himself nodding.

He wished in Inquisitor knew how strange they were, how they seemed untouchable but down-to-earth. They were a rare breed.

But he stopped his thoughts, stilling the words in his mind for just a moment while he held and was held by his friend.

Vivienne: A response from Bastien’s son; “Thank you” was the most straightforward summary. There were flowery words, but Vivienne knew what Laurent had meant.

“You look upset.” Vivienne heard behind her, and her gaze lifted from the paper to the balcony in front of her. She plastered a smile and waved her hand as if she were batting away whatever negativity hung around her.

“Oh of course not. I’m perfectly fine, darling.” She had begun, turning around to face the Inquisitor. But, the second she locked eyes with them, she faltered.

“I’m sorry. I… I wish I could’ve done more for him.” The Inquisitor began.

“There’s no need to say such things,” Vivienne responded.

“Then… maybe I could just…” The Inquisitor sighed before taking a step closer to her, holding their arms out. Vivienne was taken aback, she couldn’t recall the last time she hugged or was hugged. She chalked it up to her pitying the Inquisitor for their soft heart. But as the Inquisitor wrapped their arms around her, Vivienne did the same. She melted into the embrace, having forgotten the feeling of safety.

She wouldn’t mind it happening again, but she would never ask for it again.

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magnimoon · 1 year

Text

Chapter 15: A pleasant drink (Final part of Jealousy) - A Cullevelyan fic

You can read it on AO3 as well as the rest of the episodes!

Summary:

Final part of the Jealousy mini arc. Varric is the only one brave enough to ask Bryony if she's having some sort of affair, while Cullen is present. Although the truth might not be what they expected, at all.

The rest of the episode under the cut

Maker’s breath, what am I doing here? Cullen thought while he entered the tavern and immediately localized the all-well-known dwarf.

Varric waved at Cullen, inviting him to sit at his side; he had already asked a pint for him and one filled with juice for Bryony. Since he didn’t know there would be a third guest, he asked without hesitation for another mug filled with foamy ale. At first, he was surprised to see Curly even entering the tavern; usually the man asks a soldier to fetch him a drink, that way he can still work and drink at the same time.

“So, I’ll take you came here out of pure coincidence, not knowing I would be here.” Varric asked with a pinch of intrigue in his words, full knowing that this couldn’t be random encounter. Maybe that’s why Handy is taking her time.

“The Herald invited me.” And the mystery unfolded itself while Cullen sat down at the opposite side of the dwarf while glaring at him in case of an undesired joke.

“I see. Trying to make it up due to last time? I’m moved, Curly.” Yet Varric felt no fear towards the Commander. He placed his leathery glove over his chest covered hair, acting the dramatic part.

To those under his command, Cullen might be seen as a strict and fierce leader, merciless to those who decide to cross some lines; to Varric… probably he sees the same, however he has caught him exiting the Blooming Rose in at least three different nights while both lived on Kirkwall. Cullen is just as human as anyone else from his race.

“And you ask why I never went to the Hanged Man.” His grumpy frown began to slightly mark the wrinkles on his forehead, Cullen was still wondering if this was a good plan and was questioning if the Herald would get angry or disappointed if he suddenly had to attend an inconvenient meeting with his second-in-command.

“A pity, I must say. But let’s leave my hurt feelings aside, I’ll assume that you accepted only because Handy asked you to. Should I ask the obvious or…” Varric grabbed his mug while agitating slightly its content, making the foam swirl to the borders. He intentionally made a sip, not finishing his phrasing, since it was evident what he was going to ask.

“Varric, I must say that her nickname has been the weakest I’ve heard.” Cullen evaded the question, an action noticed by Varric as he gave a long gulp but keeping an eye open to glare at the Commander and the rest in the tavern.

“Weaker than Aveline’s? She doesn’t have one.” Varric gently placed the mug over the table, its clunk wasn’t even heard by him. Cullen crossed his arms, reluctant in changing his mind. “Fine, I’ll think of another one, everyone wants to be a critic nowadays. But back to the point, I’ll take that you fancy our holy chosen one.” Now it was Varric’s turn to cross his arms, with a hint of cockiness in his words.

“Varric, not that loud!” Cullen flinched, almost jumping from his seat. He angrily whispered at the dwarf, making sure no one in the tavern heard such straightforward truth.

“Well, well, not denying the facts. You can also relax a bit, Curly, everyone is more invested in courting Flyssa or seeing who drinks more mead without fainting.” He said as he glanced at the fair maiden, who had four soldiers around her, some already drunk and others trying to maintain a conversation with her. The lady just ignored them and went to deliver some drinks to the ones still competing in the drinking contest, and one for the Commander.

“I am not…”, he sighed, defeated. “Look, Varric, could we move aside that particular question? Today of all days is not a good one.” He cautiously grabbed the mug and thanked Flyssa. Although he had no incentive for drinking, at least not that day.

“Because of the Herald and Tiny’s suggestive approaches? I must say, even I can’t ignore that she might’ve gotten over our dear Commander here.” Varric said jokingly.

The bitter, yet devastated look on Cullen’s face made Varric realize that someone was having a hard time admitting their feelings. The dwarf pitied the Commander, not because it was ridiculous that a grown-up man had his ups and downs romantically speaking. It reminded him of his younger self and the bad luck he encountered with the real Bianca.

“Luckily for you, your favorite dwarf here is more curious than the rest. I was planning on dwelling about that specific topic today. And now you are here, consider it a birthday gift from my part… whenever that’s day.” Varric had to contain his laugh the moment he saw Cullen bumping the mug, dropping a few droplets over his mantle.

“You!” Cullen put away the mug, “why would you… I-I have to go, that is none of my…” After he wiped away the stains in the fur of his outfit, he immediately stood up.

“Ah, Herald, you’re just in time!” But just when Cullen was about to make his move, Varric turned to his left, towards the door and greeted Bryony, who now had a new clothing and armor.

The Ostwick mage, oblivious to their previous conversation, changed from the casual battlemage outfit the Inquisition offered to a more personal looking one. Instead of a simple vest coat, surrounded by a scarf and leathery belts, Bryony now wore a long ram leather coat, its purple color still fresh just like its smell. Her blouse was now silk made, shining a bit with the candlelight. The colors helped in remarking her black hair.

“Sorry, sorry, that took me more than…” Bryony hurried up, reaching the pair in no time, then she glanced firstly at the Commander who was standing up, yet he remained frozen. “Oh, you are leaving already? Did I linger too much?” she was genuinely confused, recalling in her mind how many minutes she actually spent in removing the dirt from her skin.

“Of course not, your chosen one, Curly was only going to fetch a chair for you. We were just starting the first round.” Varric stepped in before Cullen could even answer, he took another sip from his mug and let the rest play by itself.

In a blink, the Commander did as Varric asked. Luckily there were so many empty chairs since the drunken soldiers fell onto the floor due to the competition previously mentioned.

“I’m amazed you haven’t lashed out at them, Commander.” Bryony chuckled briefly before sitting in the chair Cullen barely approached to her.

“They are Orlesian soldiers from an insufferable noble. The Ambassador told me to ‘leave them be’ while she gets the supplies and allies. As far as I can see, only my men are still standing.” Cullen scoffed proudly while nodding at one rookie who was probably at his tenth pint. The soldier looked confidant, even happy that his Commander was pleased with his efforts.

The Herald discreetly, by covering her mouth with her non cursed hand, laughed a bit, looking at the masked chevaliers defeated by a simple beverage of unknown origins.

“Well, now that Curly is with us, I believe he can help us with my story. After all, he was in the same city as me.” The dwarf was focusing only on Bryony, ignoring any possible deathly silent threats Cullen might be sending him.

He has lived enough with Cassandra that he has developed some sort of immunity to deathly glares. If Varric can survive that, something like the Commander felt like a walk through the Hinterlands… with no bears and possibly a camp nearby.

“I…. what?” Cullen exclaimed confused.

“Oh, that’s right.” Bryony realized that the Commander was new to their tradition, finger snapping in the process. “Each time I return to Haven, Varric and I meet up here in the tavern and share some stories. He tells me about Hawke and I tell him about… whatever he finds curious about me.” She looked towards her left, looking at the Commander briefly before returning to Varric.

“You know me, Curly, I want to have my main character full fleshed. That is if I survive this terrible mess long enough to write a book.” Varric reassured the Commander, to avoid any suspicion, then he looked towards the Herald. “If I’m not mistaken, you want to learn about her… how would you call it… how she beat the crap out of her foes?”

“Yes! Her combat styles! I’ve heard that, even if the Champion is a mage, just like me, she still knew how to land good punches to her enemies. According to your book, she even fist flighted the Arishok when she ran out of magic.” Bryony was enthusiastic, her eyes even twinkled with joy and her hands made tiny fists so that she could punch the air. She, of course, released small sparks of electricity through her fingers. Nothing mortal, just a bit of purple static covering her small punches.

This made Cullen flinch a little, he wasn’t used to see a mage releasing magic in such a casual way. It wasn’t an intentional spell, judging by Bryony’s enthusiasm, usually magic can’t be controlled in such a small amount. Maybe Ostwick trained their mages in a different way? But then he processed what the Trevelyan said about Hawke.

“Yes… fist fight.” Cullen was rising his eyebrow, while slowly turning towards Varric, as much as he could while looking indifferently at the lying dwarf.

The Commander has never touched one of Varric’s books, since he lived the events in Kirkwall and wasn’t so fond of any smutty literature. So, when Bryony told the fist fight part, he knew; he knew that he omitted completely the fact that Hawke was running around the pillars in the Viscount chamber while her magic was recharging. Everyone in Kirkwall is aware that her mabari did most of the distracting.

This is something I need to hear. I want to see how much the dwarf changed the facts. Thought Cullen.

..........................

The Commander barely talked; he mostly watched painfully amazed the lies and fantastical tales Varric spat about the fight against the Arishok. Although, he gave credit where it’s due and added information about Hawke’s techniques in combat. Some of the most intriguing topics were the approaches she displayed in physical combat when it was imperative to hide her magic, such as being nearby templars or the Gallows in general. He added also how there were times she didn’t bring her staff to some places around Kirkwall to camouflage between the citizens.

Most of his comments shone while mentioning their first encounter, where Ivy Hawke had to fight abominations while showing her “roguish” techniques. Varric wasn’t in that particular event, so Cullen had to fill in how he knew since the beginning about Anders presence. This made Varric attentively interested in listening to another side of said event. Cullen even admitted he had to feign ignorance since Hawke and the other apostate mage saved Keran from a blood mage, he owed them that much. Varric was surprised since he always thought Cullen was blind for not noticing the apostate spreading pamphlets about the templars abuse.

After a while, the story about Hawke focused more on the battles she had once Meredith got into power. Then the conversation had a different perception, not for Bryony nor Varric, for they were chatting in their usual style. Cullen, on the other hand, began to remember the parts Varric was intentionally omitting.

Whether it was the allowance of the Tranquil rite on innocent mages, or the actions some templars did on the personal quarters the mages had, Cullen acknowledged most of these actions and sometimes even acted blind towards their unfair treatment. He never touched a mage or directly inflicted pain to one, yet he permitted many atrocities as Knight-Captain.

Mages cannot be treated like people. They are not like you or me. Those words lingered in his mind, returning from time to time. This, however, didn’t happen because he shared the same ideal as his younger self. No. It was a reminder of how low he has fallen in his life, a reminder of what he should avoid to repeat again.

Had he met Bryony a few years prior to the explosion in the Conclave… he concealed that thought since the answer wasn’t kind. Once Varric took the reins of the conversation, he remained quiet, hoping the thoughts would blur away.

Maybe someone like me shouldn’t even consider to think… Cullen thought to himself, then he looked at Bryony, who was beaming only with her smile while listening to Varric very attentively. Yes, she would be happier with someone better.

He thought low about himself, and at the same time couldn’t avoid to smile while looking at her. There was a mix of bittersweetness in his feelings, a flavor Varric managed to detect.

The dwarf didn’t want to judge anyone from that city, there is no one that came out clean from those events. Except maybe the elven servant Hawke hired.

“I believe these tales covers my share of the deal.” Varric added while ending abruptly the tale of the time Hawke battled against Aveline in one of their friendly trainings.

“More than I expected honestly,” Bryony stretched her arms and legs, she looked at her mug, already empty. She glanced at Flyssa and ordered one more, as well as some dry meat, “my turn, I guess, what would you like to know? My time at the Circle?”

Cullen suddenly remembered what Varric had planned prior to the meeting, making the Commander sweat coldly on his back. He wasn’t sure he wanted to listen the harsh truth so soon.

“Well, I’m a curious dwarf. And as much as I want to hear the miserable life the Circle provides… let’s just say that a little bird told me of a rumor, and I love rumors.” Varric put his mug aside, twiddling his fingers under his chin. He was ecstatic for the truth and probably Cullen’s reaction. As much as everyone thinks that Bryony and Bull may end together, he is betting his own pride that that’s not the case.

“Oh? Do tell, Varric.” Bryony leaned back on the comfy chair, crossing both arms.

“Well, I usually don’t ponder about the love life of my friends. Unless you are Hawke, and you decided to date the crazy apostate with a spirit inside his body. Word of advice, don’t do that.” Varric, with a bit of smooth talk, was preparing the setting to the Herald before dropping the bomb.

“I’m… not liking where this is going.” She sounded hesitant, unfolded even her arms due to the tension. Her confidant expression dropped very low, somehow there was a bit of panic in her eyes.

“Nor do I.” Interrupted Cullen, making everyone sure they still acknowledged that he was present. Interestingly enough, this made Bryony flinch, as if she had forgotten about him.

“The thing is, people have been talking, your Heraldness. Some say that you and Tiny may do more than just training. And look, I don’t judge, but after the attack on Kirkwall, I may want to consider dating a qunari.” He added last part with a sarcastic tone, not seriously questioning her choices, but he wanted to hide the involvement of Cullen in this conversation.

“Whoa, whoa, really? They think I’m dating the Bull?” Bryony tried to laugh about the situation, but there was an anxious tone behind her words. The two lads over there couldn’t see it, but she was sweating behind her neck.

What Varric did notice is that she began fidgeting her fingers, specifically trying to dig inexistent dirt under her nails. However, he couldn’t know if it was related to the Bull or Cullen. Or any other person.

“I would say more than that, since some have spotted some ladies come and go from his tent. Just making sure the qunari is not being unfaithful to our dearest boss. Unless is a casual thing between you.” Varric followed the question, looking as confidant as ever.

There was a bit of worry and grumpiness in his words, but that’s just the brotherly side he shows; it usually happens with Hawke, but Bryony sometimes looks so naïve or ignorant he can’t help but worry. Even if she’s already 26, people do find her behavior somewhat childish. Not to the level of Sera, of course. A more enthusiastic and altruistic kind of childishness. Someone that can get fooled very easily.

“That’s...!” she panicked for a second, almost getting flustered due to the implications of sleeping with the Bull. Then she took a breath to calm down, not showing any blush to the guys. “Wow, I’m impressed, Varric, people really want to gossip so desperately about me?” She regained her cool and calm self.

“So, you’re telling me you don’t have a love affair with Tiny?” Varric wanted to push a direct answer from her, he even sounded deliberately confused.

“Of course not!” And she lost her cool and calm self. She almost rose the tone of her voice enough to gain the attention of everyone. Luckily everyone was too drunk or busy to care.

“You… don’t?” Cullen broke his silence with a low but audible question. His eyes showed a bit of sparkle in them and almost smiled by hearing at the Herald’s answer.

“I… no, no I don’t!” Bryony looked at Cullen, she regained her low voice and tried to sound more considerate after screaming. She sighed. “Listen, Varric, you don’t mind helping me dismiss this rumor? As much as it would help me to get rid of… unwanted suitors, I’m not really in the mood for a fake love affair.” She massaged her temples, sounding already tired. Usually physical training leaves her intact, but gossip and political deals? That destroys her energy.

“Well, you know how I work. I need some inspiration for my lies, and for that I need a good story.” Varric answered.

“Get comfortable, but don’t expect too much. It has nothing to do with love, and more of a stupid thing we both decided to do.” There was no reason to sound that proud at all, yet her cockiness began to show the moment she readjusted her sitting posture.

For the first time in the whole conversation, Cullen looked interested. Resting his hands on his lap.

“Does this mean I’ll get disappointed?” Varric was already expecting a stupid bet or a challenge.

“You’ll regret it, I can assure you.” Bryony chuckled. Then she held her chin with her hand, trying to remember the events. “Let me start from the beginning. You know that we recruited the Bull in the Storm Coast a few days ago. I know I didn’t take you on that mission, Sera was there.”

“No hard feelings here. I didn’t get to taste a wonderful non-stop storm.” Varric brought up again his charming sarcasm. He remembered the day Cassandra returned from that bloody place since the Bull took her place.

Both the Seeker and the Chargers, whom accompanied her to Haven since they got hired, still had some places of their armor covered in sea water.

“After taking like ten salty baths while recruiting him, I decided it was better to test his battle and exploring skills. To see the range of his abilities, you know. So, Solas, Sera, Bull and I began to roam around the Storm Coast. We stayed there for a couple of days and even recruited a group of mercenaries called the Blades of Hessarian for the Inquistion.” Bryony continued explaining her tale, having both men interested in the adventure.

“I remember that, I saw on the reports that they are helping us recruiting more soldiers. They are under my care now.” Cullen remembered the report, a broad smile over his face while doing so. His mood was getting better over the course of the story.

Varric couldn’t believe the radical change in the Commander’s behavior. He needs to help the man.

“Yes! We had to fight his leader. Which I needed to mention, Varric, they are fan of your books.” Bryony added with a touch of smugness.

“Oh, you got to be shitting me.” Varric got a bit grumpy, quite frustrated since his publisher told him that his books didn’t reach Ferelden.

“Wish I was. Anyways, on the last day exploring we found something that immediately caught both of our attentions. You see, for some time we heard these bizarre and gigantic stomps. We headed towards the sound and…” Bryony continued.

“Please don’t tell me you found a dragon.” Varric felt the scenario quite too similar to when he visited the Bone Pit with Hawke. He sounded worried, although precisely worried about himself.

“Oh no, something worse, a dragon fighting a giant!” Bryony sounded way too enthusiastic than she thought. Usually anyone encountering a dragon for the first would’ve felt fear. Judging by the expression she currently holds, she could’ve even thanked Andraste and the Maker for such an amazing gift.

“Ah, shit.” Varric sighed while covering his face with both hands, there was cold shiver through his back.

He was getting an idea why he was going to regret asking this.

“You tried to fight both creatures?” Since Varric was regretting all of his decisions, Cullen had to inquire more about the event. After all, now he is interested in knowing about the bizarre trainings both she and Bull are having. He’s now believing he may be able to assist her with some advices. Or perhaps aiding in the trainings as combat partner.

“We tried to. Bull and I went crazy and enthusiastic about fighting them and charged like a pair of fools. Sera and Solas were dragged against their will.” She answered disappointed, getting ahead of the result just by the response.

Flyssa delivered her a second drink, that’s when Cullen realized that she wasn’t drinking alcohol. He found that detail quite adorable.

“Once we got near enough… I don’t know, maybe we disrupted something or they finished their business that the blasted beast went off. Just by the dragon spreading her wings and launching herself into the air the whole team got knocked far away from the area.” Bryony proceeded to rub her shoulder since that area was still recovering from the wound she received by the impact.

“Please tell me you didn’t go to finish the giant.” Cullen was starting to get worried about Bryony’s recklessness. He trusts in her abilities, but even then, she’s only a human being. Not to mention that it might cause a lot of paperwork for the Advisors.

“Per Solas suggestion, it was better to head back towards Haven and… you know, get better equipment, weapons and just get better in combat.” Bryony answered, looking again at Cullen.

“I’m surprised, for the first time you took the advice from Chuckles.” Varric had to remind the pair that, even if he is smaller in size, he was still present in the conversation.

“Well… I tried to, then giant noticed us while we were still recovering from the impact. So, we had to defend ourselves. We managed to defeat it; it was badly hurt due to the dragon. After that, we realized we were still so weak in order to fight a giant, even less a dragon.” She crossed her arms, her gaze avoiding both gentlemen as a result of her shame. It was a reminder of weakness and she has no experience dealing with the wild areas.

“You’ve been training with the Iron Bull in order to defeat one?” Cullen asked, he wasn’t noticing it, but he got closer to Bryony just to get a better look. Not that she minded or noticed it, only Varric did.

“Mhm, Cassandra told me once that she used to hunt dragons, so we asked her to give us tips for combat. That’s why she has been supervising our fights.” Bryony answered while giving a bite to the dry meat she ordered. She offered some to both of them, which was refused.

“I’m impressed, boss. And here I thought I needed to prepare myself for an Ostwick wedding.” Varric looked at his nails, even if he was wearing gloves at the moment, as a way of teasing.

“You are kidding, right? Did we really look like a couple?” Bryony, flabbergasted by the wild scenario, immediately asked Cullen. She locked eyes on his, making giving him a very inconvenient place since he did think of that minutes ago.

“I- uh, I… don’t know, perhaps in some cases. Can we please ask Varric?” The poor man’s fingers were shaking, his shoulders tensing by nature of the question itself. From all the people, why did she have to ask me? Sweet Maker. He pondered.

“I get a new member for the team and this is how I got treated? Please, Varric, can you help me on this one? Bull is a great guy and I will always appreciate a good muscular body. But he is not my type.” She pleaded at Varric, both hands together over the table.

“Of course, leave it to your favorite dwarf.” Varric wanted to stretch a bit his teasing. “Care to confess what’s your type?” He raised an eyebrow, pompously smiling at the Herald; but it was also directed at the Commander.

“That! That is none of your business, Varric!” There was sourness in her words, a venom spread through every syllable. While she didn’t intend to sound as rude as it was, Varric could feel that there is an interesting reason and, best of all, a story behind her reaction.

Now I’ve found what would be the best topic to dig about, how can I make her speak about her love affairs? Maybe is something embarrassing? I don’t think it’s a specific race. Shit, now I’m curious. Varric thought.

“Alright, alright. I get it, Twinkles. No need to get flustered about it. Knowing you, you’ll reveal it once you get a partner.” Varric wanted to look at Cullen, to see how desperate he was to learn about the type Bryony has. But he won’t give away what he knows. He promised it.

“Twinkles?” Bryony asked.

“Yeah, your dear Commander here didn’t like the beautiful nickname I gave to you. Handy was too weak apparently. So, I’m trying with Twinkles, you do cover your body with twinkling lighting magic.” Varric fluttered his fingers as to simulate whatever mages do in order to cast spells.

“You did?” She towards Cullen once more. “Thanks, Commander! I think I like this new one.” She smiled upon him, making him return the gesture.

I don’t think I need to help Curly that much. The problem is making them interact more often, thought Varric.

“It was nothing, Herald.” The Commander softly reassured her, forgetting that he is currently in middle of a tavern.

“Oh yeah! Speaking of partners,” suddenly, Bryony broke the silence. She looked nervous, a gesture the dwarf noted. Then she looked at Varric once more, “we do need a full team in order to fight the dragon. And, according to your books, you fought one alongside Hawke.”

Varric wasn’t liking where this was going.

“Remember that I love lying. I wanted to look a bit heroic.” He put confidence in his unprincipled bluff, reacting immediately to the suggestion she was making in an effort to avoid what she was about decide.

“No, I remember Solivitus mentioned you when Hawke delivered him a rare ingredient. It was from a dragon as far as I recall.” Cullen interrupted his well-made lie. He spoke without thinking about the consequences. Or maybe he did.

“Shit.” Varric hadn’t felt such betrayal ever since Cassandra told him that she would release him after hearing the Tale of the Champion.

“Welcome to the team, Varric, I’m so glad I can count on you. Gentlemen, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll get ready for the next mission. We depart in two days, Varric, we’re headed towards Redcliffe.” Bryony finally rose from her chair, taking the leftovers of the dry meat into one of her leather pouches as rations.

The Herald gave a last wave to both guys before paying her part to Flyssa and exiting the tavern.

“It’s good to know I can count on you for anything, Curly.” Varric didn’t spare the disgust he felt towards the Commander after such betrayal.

“Let’s say that you owed me that one, I didn’t know what she would answer. Going straight into the Breach was easier than listening to it.” Cullen looked downwards towards his drink and saw his reflect in a foamless part. He smiled after remembering what she said, that the Bull wasn’t her type.

“Is this your way of saying that you’re definitely into the Herald? I’ll even forgive you if you say yes.” Varric proceeded to give the last sip to his drink, emptying its content, trying to forget that he’ll probably get roasted by a giant flying lizard in the near future.

“Look, Varric, I, uh, I’m not confidant in answering that. Right now, my main focus is this war. Nothing else.” He wanted to say more, the last words got stuck in his throat, there was only a mumbling mouth moving faintly.

Varric knows that’s there is something else he doesn’t admit, besides his evident infatuation towards the Herald; however, he also is aware that Cullen has barely escaped from the life of a Templar. And in his special case, one that was so unhealthy tied to the rules of the Order. Cullen has no close friends, not one like Hawke is to Varric, nor any close person he can confide in. Not saying that the dwarf is enthusiastic in becoming his confidant, but he believes that the Commander can escape from his previous torment.

“Yeah, right. Then the person gets in peril and that’s when someone realizes they love them. Just remember, if you decide to be honest with yourself, you know where to find me. I can help and old friend if needed so. Well, I have to keep going or Bianca will be moody all weekend.” Varric also stood up from the table and gave the usual signal to Flyssa. Everything to his tab, Cullen’s drink as well. The dwarf exited just in time to meet up with his most favorite person in all Thedas, Cassandra.

Meanwhile, Cullen stayed in his chair, the other only conscious person in the tavern was Flyssa. The sun was setting and perhaps Josephine already finished buttering up that pesky noble. The Commander asked the fair lady to fetch some soldiers that would help him carrying the Orleasian chevaliers away from there.

Once Flyssa exited the tavern, he was alone in middle of a drunken sea. He would take care of those unconscious while still looking at his mug. After a solid minute, he finally decided to give a long sip to his mug, emptying it at once. He was smiling. Of course he was. The heavy burden he was carrying for almost a week lifted up in a second the moment Bryony said “no” to Varric. In his mind he was still thinking he had a chance with the Herald.

But that was the issue as well. The moment he thought of having any opportunity at all with Bryony, it also came along the guilt and self-loathing he has inflicted upon himself. Cullen thought of himself as a criminal, someone unworthy of the title of Commander and worse, unworthy of the Herald’s love. The only reason he was standing there with said responsibility was his desire to amend even a small fraction of the crimes he committed while being Knight-Captain. He will never recover the lives of those mages slain by Meredith during her regime or the war; as well as those still living in Kirkwall, with possible physical or mental scars or worse, Tranquilized.

His hands were never covered in mage blood, yet the others made actions that spilled metaphorically on his body. If Bryony were to know all the things he did in the past, could she still smile at him the way she does currently?

No, there’s no way she would, he thought.

The best course of action would be if he got over those lousy feelings as soon as possible. But words will never speak as loud as actions. And he just saw first hand what happened when there was even the slightest idea of the Herald being interested in someone else that is not him. For that he was a fool, his mind was clouded, there was no plan nor strategy for this conundrum. He was jealous, which means that, in fact, he feels something for her. But he still denies it.

“Maker, she is adorable.” Cullen blurted out in middle of the empty tavern, head looking towards the ceiling while smiling like a fool, hoping to see her smile every day.

After a few seconds, he heard footsteps getting closer towards the entrances. The soldiers he asked for were arriving to help. Which meant the Commander needed to do his part as well. He stood up from his chair and began to resume his duties.

Just as everyone was doing their chores, a shadow over one of the windows disappeared immediately, and a pair of shoes leaving footprints in the snow.

Someone heard the Commander.

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