#they/them for my inquisitor please hehe

[wanderingibon]

davrin x inquisitor nation (population: me) how are we feeling!! 🛡🌿

these are also examples for one of the many commission types I want to offer! still in the process of figuring things out, but keep your eyes peeled for updates hehe

[tila-bean]

Thoughts about the Regret Murals, Solas, the Inquisitor, and their relationship.

So I'm on my first Veilguard playthrough and I have so many feelings after unveiling (hehe) the regret murals in the Lighthouse. SO MANY FEELINGS.

Now, relevant context: It's my first playthrough. Yes, I know I just said that but I need you to understand this: IT'S MY FIRST PLAYTHROUGH. That means I don't know how the rest of the story goes and I don't care to know how it goes from any source that ISN'T the game because I'm avoiding spoilers like Neo dodged bullets on the Matrix. I just really needed to come here to share the full range of feelings I'm feeling. PLEASE DON'T SPOIL ME.

Also, because this is my FIRST PLAYTHROUGH and I don't know how the story goes from here, I might very well change my mind on the thoughts expressed here. I've already been warned that Act 3 will require tissues and perhaps a therapy session. I'm not encouraged by this, but also not surprised. It is a Bioware game after all: they love to destroy us emotionally with their incredible storytelling.

So first of all, the nature of Mythal and Solas's relationship shocked me. We knew from Inquisition that there were some feelings involved, at least from Solas to Mythal, but the depth of them impressed me. In Inquisition, it seemed like a sort of devotion, like a loyal servant's or a good friend's, but wow, it was so much more than that. I know the game tries to make it ambiguous or at the very least leave some amount of interpretation around it (Bellara with her "elves felt very deeply, it didn't have to be romantic", and Taash's "they were doing it!") But to me, it makes more sense to say they were in love. Who becomes flesh against your own judgment just because a friend asked? Who commits the murder of giant magical beings just for a friend? And who seals their old friends, breaking the world in the process, just to avenge another friend? It truly gives the impression that Solas loved Mythal both deeply and desperately, and a small moment tucked in there gave the impression that that love was not only corresponded but that they were even happy together for a while, at least before Mythal left to be part of the Evanuris. I also got the impression Solas loved Mythal more than Mythal loved him, but that could just be because it is his memories we're watching, not hers. From what small bites we get from Morrigan after the fact, making her unable to act against Solas even though both she and Mythal's fragment judge him for his actions, I do think she did. Sadly I can't really quantify how much she did love him and if it was as deep as what Solas felt for her. I do have to mention that I resent Mythal for a variety of reasons and that colors my judgment of her and her actions in all this, although that just might be jealousy speaking. My Dread Wolf! Mine! 😠

The whole Blight revelation was incredible. We knew for years that Mythal and Solas were once close to each other, and there were SO many theories behind Solas being a spirit and/or that other elves used to be spirits too thanks to Cole's dialogue snippets, but to learn that Solas and Mythal were responsible for the creation of the Blight? That they tranquiled the Titans and were the reason why dwarves are the way they are now? That the blight wasn't something that already existed and was found (and blamed on Andruil, usually!) but was the consequence of a desperate act to end a war, which in itself was caused by another fuck up when the elves came to be? Like damn. Really, damn. This memory was the one that shook me the most. And it was this memory that really helped me understand the character of Solas all that much more.

I can't hate him. I completely understand how others could hate him or continue to do so even more than before after learning all of this, but I can't. I just feel this horrible amount of pity for him. He took form under the worst circumstances and made decisions that wildly backfired on him, and I can't blame him for regretting it all and wanting to go back to being a simple spirit. My Inky would understand all of this after learning about it and have this tiny part of her tucked deep inside where, despite knowing how he feels and understanding why he does, shamefully be glad he did take form because she's grateful to have had the chance to meet someone like him.

Now, I can almost hear some of you: "What, she still loves him? After all that??"

YUP.

My Inky is someone who loves deeply. Their time together was short, their relationship even shorter, but it made a tremendous impact on her. To me, she's the type of person to not fall in love easily, but once she does, she's in it. Like really in it.

I didn't think of her as inexperienced (not that that's a bad thing anyway) but she didn't have any meaningful liaisons before the start of DA:I, so her falling for Solas so hard and fast was a very surprising and even terrifying event to her. She was secretly glad he asked for time to think after the Fade kiss, I headcanon, because she was just as confused as him, even if she was the one to take that first step between them. To me, they just clicked together in a way she hadn't ever experienced, and in the time they were together through all of the events of Inquisition, that bond deepened and deepened. She knew she wasn't getting the full picture from him, that there were things he hadn't told her. She patiently waited for him to open up and was devastated when their relationship ended as swiftly as it had started, not knowing even why. She's had a long time to think since then, busy handling the Inquisition through its last years and then later managing the chase to help change his mind. She's had the opportunity to build something new with someone else, but it didn't feel as right as what she had with Solas. And to her that meant it couldn't be as meaningful. Was she right? I don't know, but she chose not to pursue it. That was something she could live with and didn't regret.

I feel like all of these murals would have made Inky feel very similarly to me. She would have understood the man she loved way more than she ever did when he was in front of her, felt horrible for him and his circumstances, but at the same time, she unexpectedly felt something she didn't think she would: she'd feel small.

In the face of his deep love for Mythal and the actions he took for her, she'd feel small. Because here depicted is a man that, when he loved someone, he broke the world for her. And for her? For Inky? He couldn't even be honest, be it with his words or his actions. He never fully opened up to her, and was never fully vulnerable with her, even though she was for him. She'd have these horrible thoughts, after learning about the murals, that would say "You didn't mean anything to him." "You were a distraction, a momentary source of good feelings he hadn't felt for a while, but it was never truly love." "He loved Mythal. See what he did for her? He couldn't even do half of that for you while you were together." And that would break her, at least as much as she allowed herself while managing yet another darkspawn invasion in the South. It would devastate her to see how much of a blip she was in his life when, to her, he was everything. She'd chastise herself, there are more pressing matters to focus on after all, but that doubt, that possibility of being unimportant would catch up to her when she was alone.

Now, is that the truth of the matter? I don't know. I've gotten one, JUST ONE, miserable Solavellan crumb so far in the game (when meeting Inky for the first time in Minrathous) and I'm STARVING for more. Do I love my crumb? HELL YEAH I DO. Do I think it's worth the 10 years I've been waiting for it? No. GIVE ME MORE BIOWARE.

OMG SOLAS DID YOU ACTUALLY LOVE HER. DID YOU LOVE INKY.

Anywho, those are my thoughts so far. DAMN YOU, EGG 🍳

[gel-cubes]

Jayvik RP Request

ok this could be a long shot but im gonna try it out anyway!

i have critical brain worms.

im looking for folks into a jayvik rp

i am 25 so i would prefer 20+

i am in the EST timezone

i work fulltime but will try to get one reply done a day bare minimum. if we're both active i do enjoy knocking a few replies out at a time

my casual typing style might be a lil scary if you like lit style like me, i am happy to share samples of my writing to soothe your anxiety that i dont know how to use punctuation or how to capitalize letters lmao

would also prefer to rp over discord but we can figure somethin out if that doesnt work. if we do discord i can make a server for us

i do prefer to play Jayce, i can do Vik if needed but im much stronger playing Jayce

love ooc discussion!! i love to continually work on the plot and generate plans and ideas together on progressing forward. also fine with periods without much ooc discussion.

i only do lit style rp, 3 to 5 paragraphs on average. can be less depending on the scene but that tends to be the usual, though i am more often known to get carried away with my replies than to be short.

i do prefer smut not be the goal of an rp but i absolutely do enjoy it. love a slow burn tho for sure. this ties into the 20+ only tho.

PLEASE do not use AI to generate replies i beg

i would LOVE

anthro/furry jayvik (maybe basic but i would adore dog anthro Jayce and cat anthro Viktor pls pls pls pls)

abo (again basic but its a classic and im a sucker for tropes i enjoy)

literally not a plot but need to include i love trans jayvik. trans jayce, trans viktor, idc i love them.

contract marriage (love a fantasy setting for this, magic and dragons and potions hehe but im a sucker for the old "i have no control over my life, only who i may possibly marry, i promise to never love you" trope. again doesnt have to specifically be this, def could manifest in a diff way but contract marriages are so fun for a lil angst)

Dragon Age rp (blood mage Viktor? blood mage Jayce? champion of kirkwall Jayce? Templar Jayce? Inquisitor Jayce or Viktor? Warden Jayce and/or Viktor? Qunari Jayce. listen the possibilities are endless and i am so so open to ideas if you are into DA au but not these ideas)

Also would be into!!

now i am not typically a modern au fan... but a roommate au could be cute. just throwin it out there. maybe they adopt some cats

swinging back to the fantasy au... bc i am a fantasy slut... lotta room here to play. apothecary Viktor x knight Jayce? blacksmith Jayce. dragon slayer Jayce. could also do diff fantasy crossover aus. like im not super knowledgeable on lotr but if ur patient w me we could do that. i also love the Harper Hall Trilogy by Anne McCaffrey and the Books of Pellinor by Alison Croggon, aus based off those would be so fun.

skyrim au? anyone? elder scrolls in general?

post canon cottagecore. maybe they adopt some cats

Zaunite Viktor? like where he stays in Zaun. Zaunite Jayce? love those fics where they coparent the Zaun kids and specialize in making/repairing/maintaining prosthetics and assistive equipment and tools for the people of Zaun

howls moving castle au. Viktor as Howl. Jayce as Sophie. Blitzcrank as Turnip Head or Calcifer

vampires... vampire husbands... vampire x werewolf?

red dead au... cowboys au.... yknow i also just read that fanfic, The Hat Rule by lukewarmoatmeal. what a fucking masterpiece that is btw go read immediately. but yeah no horses, cowboys, i would like to stay away from brokeback mountain levels of angst if you please but yea

also i realise i made this focusing on jayvik but... if theres anyone wanting to rp hammerhound... my dms are open

im happy to do crossover aus of fandoms im less familiar with (some exceptions may apply, i'll let you know if its a fandom or plot idea im not comfy with). just make sure to lmk if i miss any details or get anything wrong, i will happily correct and keep in mind going forward. i do try to research on my own but it does help if you point me in the direction of what you would like me to focus on.

anyways feel free to pm if this is of any interest! i am very open to ideas as well so feel free to share your particular brainworms if you have any.

[a-dorin]

GIVE ME A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF ALL YOUR OCS (PLEASE)

hehehe I WILL RIGHT NOW

so first things first we have:

august juniper moor — my baby. my first star wars oc. she’s a zygerrian set in pre-phantom menace all the way through revenge of the sith & the crimson dawn era. she is widely known as (previously) darth (now just) maul’s lover. she’s endured a lot. she’s been through some shit. she’s very against the jedi order even though she spent years training alongside obi-wan under qui-gon. she lost her eye in a duel with count dooku where he set the ship to explode. she’s a badass & the strongest force user out of my ocs. her kyber crystal was purple and now it’s red. she wields a double-bladed saber, similar to maul’s. she left the jedi order before the events of rots/order 66.

kade kolpall — a nautolan who is also set in the clone wars era. he was 17 in rots and 35 (1 bby). his inspiration comes from bioluminescent fish species so he has a darker grey skin tone with yellow markings. one of them falls over his right eyes and resembles a crescent moon. he’s 6’8” & one big fella who can crush your windpipe with the snap of his finger. his master was kit fisto. (he was sort of a loose canon (he is sort of a parallel to anakin) he then joined the empire and sort of became an inquisitor but also didn’t really fuck with any of them so he just did his own thing and hunted down the jedi. (fuck canon because this is MY star wars lore) he has two lightsabers that were yellow kyber crystals but now they are also red. he met the love of his life on a backwater planet while trying to hunt down remaining jedi/force users.

erena lianoma arballor — my only human so far out of my ocs. she was 14 during rots and then 32 (1 bby). her home planet is alderaan. she’s 5’7”, medium build, with long, thick, black hair that reaches her mid back. she has hazel eyes and freckles. she was a jedi padawan during the events of order 66 but managed to survive and evade death on some backwater planet. she is taken in by a nautolan mechanic by the name of mara and they end up running a shop together. they sort of become sisters but mara has maternal instincts at times. kade initially is the one assigned to find her and kill her since her force signature can be felt by vader & palpatine. the best part is, kade is so awestruck by her beauty he can't kill her.

all of my clone ocs -- the 328th legion featuring commander bull, leo, scorpio, aro, & gunther. there are a few others but i just haven't fleshed them all out quite yet. their armor is navy with powdery blue accents. they are august's boys and she loves them to death.

mara -- my other nautolan oc. she's 22 when she first takes in erena, and i have to really flesh her out as well. she's a mechanic, insanely intelligent, & is overprotective of erena. her markings resemble a koi fish, and she has the warmest amber eyes you've ever seen.

if you have any other questions, feel free to ask hehe! :))

[engagemythrusters]

Ahsoka ep 2 now!

Low hopes ngl. Anyway hope we see my lil snow pea Jacen

I Hope Mr Turkeyleg is okay… I know Sabine will be bc she’s got more in the trailer but I love that loth kitty

She okay 🥰

Ooo her boots

Two galaxies? Damn expanding it WAY far

Hey wait do you think that this relates to Jedi Survibor? That path? Look okay I just fucking love those games and I want them to tie more into canon

Oooo pretty planet

Oo ruins

Granpa really do got shoulders

PURRFIL NOISES?! Oh no that’s just the music

Oh the loth kitties that pop up! I love when they do that always <3

Oh… does she have psychometry??? Since fhckin when?

YAY MR TURKEYLEG IS OKQY!!! I love you mr Turkeyleg

Do you think the white lothcat is still out there? What about Dume?

Mr Turkeyleg such a good guard kitty 🥰

Hera so proud of her daughter

Sabine you’re such a smartiepants I love you sm

Hera is not ready to watch another person she loves explode

Hera is SO proud of sabine always. God she’s so good

Sabine always was Hera’s girl. Like. God I am. I love their dynamic it’s my favourite.

Night sister magic hellyeah

Fod this means they def made Sabine force sensitive didntw they. I fucjing HATE that so fucking much.

Yknow I’m kinda annoyed they wanna expand to another galaxy. It’s supposed to be just one galaxy. Far far away.

How does this puzzle know that anyway

Does this just. Is this just the path the purrgil always take?? I’m so confused how this puzzle would fucking know that!

This makes no sense!!

I really like Shin. She’s an interesting character. Always watching. Always calculating. Still learning. She’s gonna be so fun I can tell

T-6 shuttle ❤️🤍

PHANTOM

ITS THE FUCKIN PHANTOM

Hey so wait does Jacen just fucking go to boarding school or some shit. Where IS he?!

Hera I love u <3

CHOPPER

The gasp I gusp AGAIN

CHOPPER CHOPPER CHOPPER

His bwaps are different >:(

STILL BETTER THAN NOTHING THO I LOVE YOU CHOPPER MWUAH MY HORRIBLE DROID

Wow what a capitalistic response to loyalty. Jesus. I hate Disney.

Hera: be nice to my daughter or else

She just really cares about Sabine and wants the best for her and just. Hhh. It’s the most important dynamic to me.

Bacta patch!!

joint custody lightsaber xoxo

Hey do you think I can make fire with popsicle sticks

Nope.

OH THANK GOD NO DORCE SENSITIVITH

OH MY GOD

I’ve never been so relieved in my life

Oh my god thank GOD thank for

Oh my god

Okay. Woo. Deep breath in and out.

Hey can we get a Kanan mentions

Please

Hera: bitch please I didn’t sacrifice everything for things to be classified to me

Damn

INQUISITOR

Who r u

CHOPPERRRRR

my most evil droid <3 I love u

THATS NOT HOW AHSOKA HOLDS HER SABERS

What the fuck?!

She’s a backward holder

0/10 that pisses me off so much.

Chopper >:)

Very interested in this inquisitor. Desperate to know who they will be

Chopper always so ready to kill everyone in sight. Love that motherfucker.

HES SO SASSY

i am so happy to see him again

Hey is it weird that I want this to be Kanan

Like. Inquisitor Kanan would be so cool.

Came back wrong n evil

Yeah okay I know he’s dead n they’ll keep him that way but god I liked it

Yay chopper!

Hehe oh my god

Hiii mr turkeyleg

HER ARMOUR YAY

Oh she painted a purrgil on it 😭

She toned down her art tho it’s so simple now. She must’ve gone thru a dark time after Kanan and Ezra.

HAIR CUT TIME

the mirroring of kanans scene… god it cuts me deep

Okay but also. that’s not how you cut hair

T-6 shuttle 🥰

HHHHHHHH ITS THAT SCENE

It’s the tap scene 😭

Wrong time of day.

Also ahsoka isn’t in white and she doesn’t have the cool stick

Where’s the cool stick

0/10

I liked that stick.

God I miss Kanan so so much.

I do like that sabine did get to train more (now that I know she’s not force sensitive) bc that means she can spar with ezra when he gets back. Sibling activities. Roughhousing until hera comes n yells at them.

Not sure I like this big ship

I am so curious about that inquisitor

I do enjoy the end credit designs. Very Lothal.

Okay see y’all for the next ep next week

[moonstrider9904]

I just finished watching Tales of the Jedi and I have a lot of words so SPOILER ALERT if you haven't watched it.

I don't want to put this under a read more because I feel like that'll just make people ignore the post so please, if you haven't filtered spoilers and don't want to be spoiled, close your eyes and scroll past this fast :D

I'll be as coherent as I can 😅

First off I am blown. Blown away by this. I'm in awe at how much Star Wars can make me feel and how this is the only franchise that will do this to me.

Episode one, I cried. Baby 'Soka, I shall protect you from everything even though you shall be the one protecting me even with thou chubby baby legs. But when the end credits rolled and Ahsoka's theme played, I teared up. I hadn't cried with Star Wars ever since Crosshair was left on Kamino!! For a moment, I was nine years old watching The Clone Wars in the movie theater with my brother all over again 🥺

Now... Dooku. I hate him. I love him. I love to hate him. I hate to love him. I love Yaddle more (seriously, Yaddle my beloved, I'm not over that). And the way I howled when I realized some of the events were set in TPM?! I mean, animated TPM Qui Gon?! MY CHILDHOOD-

The sadness that Dooku felt at losing Qui Gon, and the scene at the tree felt so surreal. I would have loved to see Dooku's fall to the Dark Side in much more detail but this is in no way a complaint; I love the execution and the short story format, and I felt the setting was exposed pretty clearly and just- AGH.

Also, that scene where Dooku tells the guy from Raxus he can kind of understand his point of view, and while he talks, his face is lit red and the background behind him is dark - *faints* I love it when a scene can visually reflect a character's inner turmoils. 10/10

I still love Yaddle more.

and Mace Windu was fuckin' amazing in this, as he always is. We stan Mace Windu in this house - holy crap.

Now. Now. NOW.

Tales of the Jedi is truly special because, while many will like to dismiss nostalgia factor as pure frivolity, it's the reason I and possibly others feel so intensely right now.

We saw Ahsoka again, as well as Obi-Wan, Anakin, Rex, Jesse. Characters I watched as a kid, who have shaped me in one way or another; we see them grwo with the course of the mini series, and we can tell the context and feel either joy or pain, mostly pain by the end. I had no clue that the training montages with Rex and the boys would lead so smoothly (and so painfully) back to Order 66.

There's a sequence I will now watch with even more pain!! Thank you, Felony.

Also DEPA BILLABA AND CALEB DUME. Guys. The incoherent noises I made at seeing them. I yelled and cried and fangirled and asdkjhañksjdghañsdbgj it was gorgeous to see them. Their cameo didn't even have words, they were just there and it made sense and it felt nice and I love it. Same with Plo and Yoda.

And I respect Ahsoka way more now knowing she worked hard days under the sun. Respect to my queen. UGH and the pain of knowing she was at Padmé's procession because they were friends, having Bail tell her there was nothing she could have done for them (isn't Bail Organa just the best, most comforting character in the franchise?)

And that inquisitor - I was bummed that it ended so quickly. People, I'm a slut for Percy de Rolo, and then you give me an inquisitor with a bird like mask and a deep voice? AÑISDJHGFAÑSBJGFDA anyways ummm Ahsoka was a badass, as usual, and I really wanted to smack the dude who turned her in.

Hehes, I really hope not to have rambled too much. I'm still not over it, these are just my thoughts on the whole series. Soon, I'm going to rewatch it with a bag of popcorn.

[thedeadthree]

🖊🖊🖊 for each of your da ocs please im begging

HIIII AJ DEAR AND OF COURSE <3 and not emotional at all bc of u wishing to know more about my da babies AHH..! since i finished absolution they've been on the brain again.....! <3

SEND A 🖊 + I WILL GUSH ABOUT MY OCS <3

🖊 - the small folk of ferelden named her the ashen queen! for her ashen hair but as she saved the temple of sacred ashes, and she was reborn in the fires of Highever from lady to warden to queen to hero of all Ferelden from the blight. <3

🖊 - in highever, like the dear girl she was "the teyrnir's delight" she had more than a few paramours and requests for her hand (there was even talk of a tourney for her hand jahsbnjh) but her heart was on her sworn knight, sir roderick gilmore, before the tragedy of highever that resulted in his passing. alistair reminded her a lot of him when they first met in ways of their personalities. and he helped her heal from that and she's grateful to ali for that to this day <3 speaking of ali though <3 he still gifts her roses to this day every year on the day of their anniversary (bc of course he does <3) and had a garden commissioned in the palace for her! was it costly? yes! was it needed? not really! but he loves her and she loved him for it so!

🖊 - this hit me like an epiphany last month? i think? but i thought of having an old amell oc be her lady-in-waiting and childhood bestie! her name was rhiannon but i think i like alicent better? following her successful harrowing (with flying colors mind thee <3) she returned to highever to be the court sorceress of teyrn bryce cousland! alphonsa played wingman to her when ali showed interest in nathaniel howe <3 to be honest i adore natie too much and was going to set him up with alfie in an au but as i was thinking of fun facts it HIT ME and so! wingman alfie to her bestie was born! <3

🖊 - originally his name was faron! but i wasn't into the name and how it flowed together and in browsing the silm/t*olkien tag the plural for the f*eanor came up and i liked how it sounded as a name <3 and so his name was changed to feanorian!!!! his vallaslin and his patron was falon'din for a time as the mother of him and his sister lhysa was at one point a patron of the elven god of shadow <3

🖊 - for his relationship history if i remember reading right, he has been happily married to dorian for about a decade now at the start of da:d and (maybe) absolution <3 he had a short lived relationship with merril back in the day as a companion of hawke. he’s also had more than a few other lords and ladies as partners in the past before he met dorian <3 get ur rich man feanorian!!!!!!

🖊 - other than solas, he is the foremost scholar of elvhen lore and ancient sorcery <3 rivals that of the tevinter archon in terms of power and knowledge of the arcane <3 LOOOATHES using staffs and prefers the tried and true hands to dish out an arcane hind end whooping hehe! the chantry threw a FIT when he refused a staff they offered him but he “assured” them he hasn’t become an abomination.. yet <3 he was also invited to attend the temple of sacred ashes as a dignitary! his extensive knowledge totally doesn’t stem from the fact his biological father was an ancient elf himself and now the left hand to the dread wolf <3

🖊 - NOW FOR MY BABY <3 she has another verse she’s in!!!!! her other verse is the witcher where’s shes lhysa aep lonán, an aen seidhe of nilfgaard <3 also an assassin, she was the premier kingslayer and left hand of both emperor emhyr, his son maxen (an oc of minee <3) and jan c*alveit!!!!! in her da verse she was once an assassin for her mothers order based in nevarra the nahkriin, but went her separate way from it and became freelance!

🖊 - she never meant to be the inquisitor, and for sure never meant to touch the orb it sort of…… happened. her motivations for her presence there was actually that she was on a contract. and who was the contract for you say? it was the divine justinia herself in fact! <3 she hoped to kill her and draw attention to a few important things and people. you know, the chantry because of it was more than obvious that the only way to draw attention was to force their hand when it came to matters pertaining to them, and of course, a particular rebel leader of an unknown but known to someone……. VERY dear to her:

🖊 - WHICH LEADS TO MY LAST ONE!!!!! she and felassan were an item in this verse! i need to read the book he’s in bc she’s also in it for more lore but! he and her! his ideals and charisma captivated her. which was WEIRD for her bc well, in her line of work u know it is neeever a good idea to become close or attached to anyone u know? and uhhhh well……. he dies in the fade right.. bc well bestie rebel leader totally not an elven god right. SO HE WAKES UP AND HE WAKES UP TRANQUIL RIGHT SO HE WAS ZEROED IN THE FADE RIGHT! *cue the tiktok “she knows” song* AND ALSO *cue bloodlines will burn from the hotd soundtrack jsjshx* bc she SWORE to kill the one who killed him u know? it’s only right! an eye for an eye a soul for a soul u know? which makes it MORE inch resting that the whole time it was solas right? and even worse is he fell in love with her and she fell in love with him.. ✨😵‍💫🤍😳

[earlgreyfrootloops]

dragon age blog is @variaoftevinter !!

i only have like 30 followers and most of them are p0rn bots lmfao but i’m gonna migrate my dragon age content to @variaoftevinter :)

i’m gonna start writing a lot more, about my wardens, hawke, inquisitors AND oc’s that are seperate but intertwined w the main story!!! please consider a follow hehe

[citrinie]

Yesss. Blackwall is everything. He’s honestly so well written. Hope you enjoy. I wanted to romance him with a Dalish elf too at some point. I know everyone loves him with Cadash, but his romance animations only work well for Lavellan and Trevelyan so I doubt I’ll ever give it a go. Anyways, please tell me all about your canon playthrough. All your major game decisions. Who you romanced etc.

totally agree with you on that! Blackwall's character is very nicely written which makes him unique to me 🥺 i feel like we have so many sad grey wardens, but it will never be enough lol so far i have only played as lavellan and trevelyan. now in my head the inquisitor is an elf bc i have mostly only played as female lavellan 🧝‍♀️

you asked nonnie, so under the cut is just a “small essay” of my canon playthrough 😅 i could talk abt DA for infinity and never get tired of it, so i did get a little carried away but here you go!

my inquisitor:

my canon playthrough for DAI is a female dalish mage inquisitor. her name is Ithil. she is a raven-haired, pale-skinned elf with purple eyes. she has a very intimidating aura to her and is very standoffish. i found it very fitting for her to have the dark voice option even though her frame is tall and skinny hehe. most recent pic of Ithil, where im doing a rogue playthrough to justify siding with the templars 😃 i hate that decision so far lol

major DAI decisions:

for the major decisions im starting chronologically. i obviously sided with the mages bc Ithil is canonically a mage and i just love mages lol

then its the choice of who to leave in the Fade. this was for me the most gut-wrenching decision bc it stood between Alistair and Hawke 😭 like how could bioware do me like that? i spent a good solid 30 minutes contemplating what to do and ultimately ending up leaving Hawke in the Fade. reasons being that i could never leave Alistair and him being the first DA character i fell in love with, would just be heartbreaking. also someone needed to lead the grey wardens, so why not him? i felt so very sad for Varric. poor Fenris, who i romanced Hawke with, he probably hates Ithil and lashed out at anything close to him 😫 but i try to remember what Flemeth said to Hawke that she may one day find herself facing the abyss and “do not hesitate to leap”, and considering the quest name is Here Lies the Abyss 🥲

when it comes to the fate of the grey wardens, i saved them bc i felt that there were more benefits to being allied with them rather than getting rid of them. grey wardens were a huge part of the first game considering you played as one. 

as for who i had be the ruler of Orlais, i kept Celene in power. she and Briala also got back together. Gaspard was never an option to me so that was yet another easy big decision. i realize now how much female power i have in my DA canon playthrough lol

choosing who would be the next divine was a hard decision. there were pros and cons for both Cassandra and Leliana. i know Vivianne is an option too but she just hates my inquisitor lol. i ended up choosing Leliana tho bc of her standing with the mages and her view of progressive change in Thedas. she also has a huge interest in politics and is well-informed abt almost everything bc of her spies. i definitely think that choosing Leliana will cause chaos bc of all the changes, but im here for it hehe

those are all the major DAI decisions i can think of are important, but lmk if you want to know anything else ;)

romance & companions:

as for romance options, i had Ithil romance Cullen bc i have loved Curly since DAO hehe in my canon DA Cullen had relations with my warden who is a female human mage named Solona. i always think of them when you ask Cullen if he has anyone, and he says something like “not in Kirkwall”. which to me insinuates that he had someone when he was in Ferelden, before going to Kirkwall, but nothing serious as Solona got with Alistair another blond-haired dude with puppy-dog energy lol i love Cullen’s character a lot tho bc you get to see the various things he has gone through in all three games. so all the pain and suffering he is going through in DAI makes a lot of sense, bc of all the trauma he has experienced and the withdrawals he has from lyrium as he essentially is a drug addict. so i love the ending where Ithil and Cullen gets a dog, gets married, the inquisition is disbanded, they move to some place quiet and still help others in their own ways like the good ppl they are ❤️

lastly talking abt Ithil’s chemistry with the gang. the ppl she felt close to were Iron Bull, Solas, Cassandra and Dorian. she loves hanging out with the Bull and the chargers, drinking at the tavern and listening to various stories from everybody. Solas and Ithil have a platonic connection probably bc of their elven background, but also i feel like she learnt a lot from him abt spirits and the Fade. so we are feeling a little bit betrayed and bitter by the fact that Solas was behind everything that happend 😅 all the help for ppl in solavellan hell.  Cassandra and Ithil butt heads quite a bit, but playing Ithil as a rogue made me think that they would be really good sparing friends. and i think Ithil gets Cassandra out of her comfort zone in a good way :) as for her friendship with Dorian, they are both necromancer mages and i see them exchanging a lot of knowledge. i also think Dorian loves pimping Ithil up with dresses and jewellery, for her to show Cullen ;) she is also very close to Josephine who teaches her a lot abt diplomacy, as Ithil do not always have the best social antennas and can be quite blunt in situations where she should not be lol

the only romance options i have finished a whole playthrough of is with Bull and Cullen. so doing a Blackwall romance now, then i want to do a Solas romance just to have done it lol. loved both Bull and Cullen’s romances, they are quite different to each other but that is what i loved abt them hehe. Bull’s romance was so funny and kinky ;) Cullen’s romance was like cute and vanilla with a sprinkle of trauma ✨ in the end Cullen is the canon romance option in my little DA world 😊

[queenofbaws]

63! :D I'll let you pick the ship. hehe

“Well, truly this was...just a colossal waste of both my time and yours,” Hawke said, her voice bright and jovial even as she heaved a long-suffering sigh, “But please, please, do feel free to drag me into as many of these impromptu meetings as your heart desires - I think I shall never tire of revealing my many stratagems for besting Corypheus, starting and ending with ‘Penetrate his body repeatedly with the sharp end of a blade.’” Happily enough, she pantomimed getting a few good stabs in before she hopped off the edge of the war table (where she’d been sitting, much to Josephine’s quiet displeasure), taking her leave and offering each of the others a jaunty salute as she passed them by, teasing, “Sister...Ambassador...Seeker...Knight-Captain...”

From where he’d been (halfheartedly, it was true) taking notes, Varric barely glanced up, warning, “Now, now, play nice, Hawke,” under his breath as he, out of habit, tipped his head juuust to the side.

“I always play nice, Varric,” she drawled, bending down to press a soft kiss to his cheek, “Well...except when I don’t, I suppose.”

Across the way, Cassandra stared wide-eyed, head whipping first towards the Inquisitor, then towards Cullen, her hands not precisely gesturing...but not not gesturing either. “Did you - ” she began, looking hopelessly between Leliana and Varric as Hawke finally departed, “Did they...that wasn’t in The Tale of the Champion.”

six sentence sat(or)sunday!!!

[sithsecrets]

Shock and Awe

May I request a Kylo fic in which he meets the reader, who is nobility on her home planet, and is smitten after he sees her skills on the battlefield? It can be however fluffy/angsty/etc as you want! Thank you so much! I love your fics!

Hello! I hope it’s okay to request, it not please ignore haha! I was wondering if you could write about the reader being like a new inquisitor or something like that and she’s super badass and Kylo is falling hard but he doesn’t know how to talk to her bc ~inexperience~. Thank you so much I love your writing!! I was hooked on Empress and check everyday to see if you updated hehe. Thank you for blessing us with your writing!!!!❤️

May I request Kylo Ren (pre TFA, before he was Supreme Leader) courting the reader who is royalty from a First-Order-occupied planet? You can make it as floofy or as smutty as you want! Thank you!!!

This fic is based of the above asks!

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Enamored with a fearsome, clever princess, Kylo Ren makes an auspicious alliance.

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1.4k words

Mentions: violence, gore, swearing

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Kylo is in awe of you from the moment he lays eyes on you.

The first time the two of you meet, the both of you are caked in blood and gore, fresh from fighting the Resistance. He’s watched you take down men twice your size, watched you tear through flesh and bone as if it were nothing to you. You kill without mercy, without regard for your enemies or who they are, and watching you slaughter person after person gives Kylo the most delicious chills he’s ever felt.

It is only after the fight, when all of your shared adversaries lay slain, that Kylo finds out who you are.

“I’ve never known a princess capable of slaughtering so many people at once,” Kylo tells you, and he cannot help but be transfixed by how beautiful you are, even caked in dirt and the very lifeforce of your victims.

You laugh at Kylo’s statement, saying that he and his men are welcome to convoy back to your palace with you, and the look in your eyes tells him that perhaps he has missed something. A joke, maybe? He’s always been awful with those, so he doesn’t take it too hard.

Back at the palace, Kylo only falls more and more in love with you with every passing minute. He comes to find out that you are a staunch diplomat, a real cutthroat negotiator. You tell several men from prominent planet not yet under the Order’s control to fuck off when they say something that offends you, and two more parties of hopeful ambassadors are soon bent to your will with little more than a smirk and a minute amount of compromise on your part. As he watches, Kylo grows almost jealous of your prowess. Fear has always been his go-to tool for forging connections, but you are a master craftsman when it comes to forming relationships, even with people you seemingly hate! Everyone wants to be on your good side, and it is obvious that your having your friendship is very advantageous for all parties involved.

And though Kylo does not want to be uncouth or simple-minded, he cannot help himself from acknowledging that you are enchanting. He is transfixed by you, by your beauty, and he wants nothing more than for you to take notice of him in a similar way. If Kylo were every given the privilege of being the object of your most intimate affections, he doesn’t know what he would do with himself! And stars, does it make him jealous, watching how men and women alike absolutely fling themselves at you. They shower you in jewelry and dresses and perfume, in promises of wealth and great power, and yet it seems as if you are not flattered by any of it. You always thank these hopeful suitors of yours, accepting their gifts graciously, but you never heed to their advances, never let them in close to you. In a disheartening revelation, Kylo supposes that this must mean you are otherwise attached, perhaps in secret, for you are unmarried and do not openly show off a partner. Of course, he is envious of this mysterious lover of yours beyond belief, but fair is fair— if someone managed to capture your affections before Kylo or someone else could, then they must be an exemplary person indeed.

So, Kylo continues on with the tasks he’s been given, following Supreme Leader Snoke’s directions to the letter. And, as he strikes down enemies and puts the fear of the Order into more than one diplomat, he spends any free moment he has marveling at you from afar. He thinks you can sense his interest in you, but it’s only a guess. Kylo likes to think that some of the smiles you send his way are a little more than friendly, but really, what does he know about things like this? It’s been so long since he spent time with a woman in such a fashion, and even longer since he attempted to date anyone. Kylo knows that he’s gifted in many ways, but he won’t profess to be proficient in the realm of romantic relationships.

After a few days, Kylo’s ready to give up on the whole concept of capturing your affections… until you corner him in the palace gardens.

He’s minding his business amongst the blooms and grasses, reading over some material about a distant planet, when you appear in front of him. Of course, you’re draped in a beautiful, rich gown, and the mere of sight you takes Kylo’s breath away. He begins to ask you how you are, but you seem bent on not wasting time with pleasantries.

“Do you like me?” you ask, and there is a curious look in your eyes that makes Kylo want to choose his words with the utmost care.

“I… Yes, of course. You have been a most wonderful partner in these negotiations. You are a very competent ruler, and the Order is very pleased with your performance.” You sit down across from Kylo in the other little chair that matches the one his, now seemingly keenly interested.

“I didn’t ask what the Order thought of me. I know that I’ve served them well,” you state, and there’s that confidence that Kylo loves so much. “I asked if you like me. Though perhaps that’s a childish way of putting it. Really, I’m asking you if you have feelings for me.” You quirk one perfect eyebrow in Kylo’s direction, and he feels as if he may pass out.

“Well, I— What do you mean?” Kylo stammers, though he knows perfectly well what you’re asking.

Had he really been so obvious?

“Do you think I’m pretty, Kylo?” you ask, apropos of nothing, and Kylo does his best to control his urge to get up and flee, to avoid this whole interaction entirely. You must think Kylo’s taking too long to answer, because you barrel on, saying, “It’s all right if you do. If I’m being honest, I find you rather handsome.”

You give Kylo’s body a lazy onceover, and the look in your eyes is enough to make his face burn.

Embolden by your compliment, Kylo decides that perhaps it is safe to tell the truth. “I think you are quite beautiful,” Kylo admits, earning himself one of your coy little smirks, “but I am just one of your many admirers. It seems that everyone we’ve met with this week wants to capture your affections.”

Though Kylo tries to swallow it down, just a tinge of jealousy seeps into his voice during the last bit of his speech. That seems to please you, though, for your smirk broadens into something more of a satisfied smile.

“Yes, many people want to be close to me,” you affirm, but it doesn’t seem to be with any pride or arrogance. Cutting your eyes towards Kylo suddenly, you settle back in your chair. “Is that what you want, too, Kylo? My affections?”

“You wouldn’t want to be with someone like me, Princess,” Kylo says to you, conscious of himself. “You would like someone more entertaining, I think, someone who it better at making friends.”

A scoff, and then you’re standing up as if you aim to leave. “I have plenty of court jesters already, Kylo Ren. I have no intentions of taking on another.” You pause and cock your head, allow your eyes to skim over Kylo’s face. “I want someone who doesn’t need my help, someone who knows what they want. I have come to realize that many of the people who throw themselves at me so violently are just leeches looking for a powerful, influential person to draw energy from.”

“I understand,” Kylo says companionably, because he does. He may not have many close friends or a lover, but that’s not to say that people haven’t tried to latch onto him before.

“If I were to give you my heart, would you make sure that none of those parasites ever got anything I wasn’t willing to give?”

Kylo is in love with you. He is in love with that calculating, mischievous glint in your eye. You are a true terror, he thinks, a force to be reckoned with.

He locks eyes with you, deadly serious. “If it would please you to be rid of them, all you would have to do is say so.”

For the first time, you grace him with a true, wide, bright smile.

“Finally,” you say, and you sound so, so pleased, “someone who understands what I want.”

[laraslandlockedblues]

How about Cullen x Evelyn for the ship break down meme? Please and thank you. ^-^

Thank you! I’ll go straight up canon for these two instead of any AU, as tempting as those are...which is very. Hehe. I’ll put this under a read more because of length as well.

How did they they meet?

This would depend on who you ask. Cullen remembers Evelyn being carried back into Haven after the destruction of the Conclave, and he often checked in on her in the midst of the chaos. He’s felt like he’s known her since then - at least because he couldn’t get her off his mind. Evelyn would say that it was on the battlefield in front of the forward camp on her way to the Breach, when she threw a barrier in front of him while he was fighting demons.

Who developed romantic feelings first?

It took Evelyn a very long time to realize why she liked talking to him so much, and why she valued their time together more than anyone else’s. She’d never experienced it before, and thought they were just friends. Cullen knew earlier on that he was attracted to her, and did his best to resist because he didn’t feel worthy of her.

Who is their biggest “shipper?”

Possibly a tie between Varric, Marian Hawke, and Leliana.

When did they have their first kiss and under what circumstances?

Their first kiss was the classic first kiss on the battlements after being interrupted by Jim - because I love that moment so much and wanted to just give it my own little twist with these two.

Who confessed their feelings first?

When it came to actual ILYs, it was mutual - but Cullen said it first.

What was their first official date?

The Lake. Cullen took Evelyn on a short trip to the Lake and Redcliffe, in an attempt to be romantic and take her away from the stress of her duties for a bit.

How do they feel about double dates/group dates?

Evelyn loves them, Cullen despises them. Fun Fact - Evelyn’s favorite double date is with Marian and Fenris.

What do they do in their down time?

Read poetry together, or Evelyn sketches while Cullen relaxes.

What was the first meeting of parents as an official couple like?

Evelyn only has her father left, and when he shows up for a surprise visit to Skyhold she’s not certain how things will go. She hasn’t spoken to him since she was taken away to the Circle, and Cullen is the one who actually writes to him and encourages him to come visit. Things actually go well, with her father doing the “what are your intentions with my daughter?” speech, but luckily Cullen answers it all correctly.

What was their first fight over and how did they get past it?

Besides arguing over some of Evelyn’s decisions as Inquisitor before they are together, their first big fight is before they really get together. Cullen questions her delay to go to Redcliffe to meet Dorian’s father without telling anyone, and Evelyn gets so angry and defensive that she refers to him as Knight-Captain and accuses him of trying to keep her under his thumb, essentially. Varric actually helps Cullen see the stress that Evelyn’s been under as Inquisitor, and he actually seeks her out to comfort her and apologize.

Which one is more easily made jealous?

Cullen, because his sense of unworthiness and self-doubt makes him constantly question whether or not he deserves happiness with her.

What is their favourite thing to get to eat?

Cullen has a sweet tooth and likes small sweet rolls, which he frequently shares with Evelyn (part of this is a callback to my AU where they meet at the Ostwick Circle instead of him going to Kirkwall after Kinloch Hold).

Who’s the cuddly one? What their favourite cuddling position?

Evelyn is the cuddly one, and Cullen loves to wrap her up and spoon her so that they both sleep soundly.

Are they hand holders?

Definitely. Evelyn is touch-starved before Cullen and frequently seeks out small touches like hand holding.

How long do they wait before sleeping together for the first time? What’s the circumstances?

They wait a few months, mostly because Evelyn is a virgin and doesn’t know how to show she’s ready for that next step, and also because Cullen is hesitant to take it to that next level, in case they don’t last. He doesn’t want to hurt her. When they do sleep together, he takes her out to the Lake for a picnic and they make love on the shore.

Who tops?

Usually Cullen, but not always.

What’s the worst fight they’ve ever gotten into?

It’s not necessarily a fight, but Evelyn takes time to come to terms with the fact that Cullen, in one of his darker moments in Kirkwall, had heard about the Tranquil Solution and thought perhaps it could be a good idea. They separate for a time, but Evelyn thinks over everything Cullen has told her about what he went through, and how hard he’s trying to be better, and she accepts him as he is, opting to see the good in him.

Who does the shopping and the cooking?

All my ships are so bad at being domestic xD In a perfect world they would do them together, because Evelyn has always wanted to learn to cook. Once they’re done with the Inquisition, they definitely treat the shopping and cooking equally.

Which one is more organized and prone to tidiness?

Evelyn. I mean, have you seen Cullen’s desk?

Who proposes?

Cullen, spur of the moment.

Do they have joined Bachelor/Bacheloette parties or separate?

No, they don’t have any parties beforehand.

Who is the best man/maid of honour? Any other groomsmen or bridesmaids?

Dorian stands beside Evelyn, and Rylen stands beside Cullen.

Big Ceremony or Small?

Small, definitely. Cullen wouldn’t want a fuss, and Evelyn wants to make him happy. Plus they both feel it’s a private, intimate moment and want to enjoy it for themselves.

Do they have a honeymoon? If so, where?  

Once the Inquisition is dissolved, I think they treat their whole life as a honeymoon, after everything they went through.

Do they have children? How many?

Spoilers but yes they do. They have three, a daughter and twins, a boy and a girl.

Thank you so much! This was fun, I haven’t thought about these two’s canon in a while.

[nerf-burger]

Hi, could you answer to 4, 8, 13, 16 and 20 please? (Yeah, I know it's much but, meh! :p ) ~

Thank you! Ha, no worries – I love answering these, so it’s never too much. :D

4) are there any class combat styles you love, but can’t deal with on the mirrored version?

Hmm, not really… At least, not so far (I haven’t played all of the classes yet). The fact that they’re mirrored makes it a lot easier for me, actually… especially if I know the other version well! I particularly love the Combat Sentinel (Knight)/Carnage Marauder (Warrior) styles. It’s so much fun to attack mercilessly with two sabers.

8) what single line is your favourite piece of dialogue in-game? where is it from?

Ooh, I had to think about this one, because I know there are so many lines that I love… but since I haven’t played through a class story in quite a while, I’ve also forgotten a lot of them, oops…

Anyway, the Sith Inquisitor story in particular has a wealth of great lines, but one of my favorites (as evidenced by my blog title, hehe) is Talos’ response to the Inquisitor’s mention of a dream she had.

“Hmm. I never get the good dreams. It’s always flesh-eating Jawas or Hutts in bikinis.“

I also love the conversation between the SI and Khem after confronting Darth Skotia on Dromund Kaas:

“What do you think? Can you eat him?”“More machine than man, I think. Bad for the digestion.”

And I can’t leave out one of Kira Carsen’s combat lines: “Eat lightsaber, jerk!”

13) are there any side/exploration/heroic missions you especially love?

I haven’t gotten into the side missions very much, but out of the ones I’ve done, my favorite would probably be the Revanite mission on Dromund Kaas. 

My favorite Heroic missions are… all the ones that take 2 minutes tops. :P Nah, but really, I love all the Coruscant ones. I think I’ve done them so many times that doing them now is sort of relaxing to me.

16) who was your original main? do you still play them?

My original main was my Jedi Knight, Deena Dyenox. I don’t play her anymore, but I have her reserved on the character screen because I want to go back and level her up sometime!

20) what five companions would you pick, from all of them, if you had to make a new crew?

For no particular reason other than being some of my favorite companions: 

T7-01, Felix Iresso, Kira Carsen, Vette, and LS Jaesa Willsaam.

[ladylike-foxes]

happy dwc night!! "Who gave you such radiance?" prompt, hehe

Thank you so so much, sweetpea!! ❤❤❤ So, this is a verse convergence ficlet, that finally kinda addresses how Felassan is responsible for Halesta becoming Inquisitor? Or at least gives a vague idea. It’s mostly crap because I was more interested in self-indulgence than doing it right, so...I’m sorry? But it was fun to write, anyway!For @dadrunkwriting​! ❤

Oh, and here’s what I’m using as Elvhen It’s not remotely correct, but whatevs.Garas: Come / EnterSavhalla: GreetingsHa’lethassan doesn’t actually mean shit? I mean, (Ha = old/wise/respected) + (leth[al] = family/kin) + (assan = arrow), but I just kind of made it up, cause “Uncle Fel” didn’t feel right.

        Camber was eyeing him suspiciously, and he couldn’t blame her. This had to all seem…very strange. It was very strange. He had told her nearly everything up to this point, but how he would go about explaining this? All Felassan had told them was that he had received a letter from “an old friend”, and that they were headed for a rendezvous in godsforsaken Ferelden—worse yet, in Crestwood. Somber was pleased to go along, his usual chipper, unfazed self. But Camber was noticeably, ah, frazzled; much like the humidity’s effect on her hair. He sighed, nervously smoothing his hair back from his face.        Felassan was unsurprised to find an attempt had been made to give the damp cave feel a somewhat more comfortable atmosphere. Torches had been fixed to the walls and, along with a small fire, were already lit when they arrived. Two desks had been brought in, covered with molding old maps, and there was an unmade bedroll spread out in the back corner. Crates of root vegetables and unleavened bread rested in scattered stacks alongside barrels of fresh water and ale. The familiarity of such hiding places brought back old memories.        A soft rap at the makeshift door startled the trio, straightening themselves with quiet tension. Fel took a deep breath in, glancing quickly to confirm the twins were prepared.

“Garas.”

       The door opened slowly with a creak that, to him, seemed histrionically ominous. Three cloaked figures emerged from the dark tunnel, the taller two flanking the shortest. With a quick, exasperated tug at the hood, the warm light revealed the pale face, fierce face that was hauntingly familiar. Eliana’s daughter was a near-spitting image; Felassan felt a bittersweet pride bloom in his chest. The Inquisitor herself was looking up at him, wearing a wry smirk he hadn’t seen since she was very young.

“All this covertness seems absurdly melodramatic, yeah?” Halesta looked around briefly before turning her grin back at him. “Hey, Ha’lethassan! I thought you were supposed to be dead?”

“Who says I’m not?” Fel couldn’t help but laugh, pulling her into a tight hug.

“Fair enough. You could be a ghost,” Laleal had removed her cloak and was sidling into the embrace. “You definitely haven’t aged a minute in the last two decades. Not that should be any surprise—You know, considering.”

“I missed you, da’Lala. Taking sufficient care of our Halie, I hope?” Planting a swift kiss on his pupil’s cheek before he turning back to the Inquisitor, “Who gave you such a radiance? Wait, what am I saying? It was your Mamae, of course.”

       The sound of shuffling feet, followed quickly by a pointed cough, returned Fel’s awareness to his surroundings. There were three other people here who were clearly feeling awkward and confused. A tall, dark human stood behind Halesta and was regarding the reunion with fond amusement; Fel could feel the man’s magic like a tingle beneath his skin. Somber mirrored the human’s keen puzzlement and, to his relief, Camber’s expression seemed to relax slightly.

“Shit, how rude of me!” Halie perked up, looking to the twins, “This is Altus Dorian Pavus. Dorian, this is Felassan.”

“A pleasure to finally meet the illustrious ‘not-uncle Uncle’,” The mage gave a sweeping bow.

“Savhalla,” Glancing at Halesta with blatant skepticism as she squared her jaw, “An Altus of Tevinter, hm? What an interesting bedfellow for the Inquisitor.”

“—Save it,” Laleal flapped her hand dismissively, “His loyalty to Hals is so absolute, it’s borderline absurd. They’re joined at the hip.”

        Uncertainty still knitting brows, he nodded to Dorian before turning to the twins. Camber had cocked an eyebrow, clearly denoting that her patience was quickly fading.

“Inquisitor, might I introduce Camber and her brother, Somber,” Halesta smiled warmly, clasping a hand with each sibling in turn.“They are from the Wastes. She, in fact, is the one who came to my rescue after Solas and I had our, ah, falling out.”

“Oh, is that what you’re calling it?” A jab aside, Halie directed her attention back to Camber; “I’d love to hear how you wound up here with Fel, when we have time. It must have been quite an adventure.”

“I have known Halesta and Laleal since their births,” Felassan smiled meekly at his companion, “Eliana, her mother, was my dear friend— And the reason we might just stop Fen’Harel yet.”

       Camber’s eyes softened with understanding, she gently slipped her hand into his. He ignored Halie and Lala sharing a piquant glance, struggling to subdue their grins.

“Speaking of Fen’Harel,” Draping an arm over Laleal’s shoulder, Dorian leaned in conspiratorially, “We have quite a bit of work to do, I believe?”

“Ah, yes!” Felassan gave the group a wolfish smile, “Let’s get to it.”

[jentrevellan]

A Skyhold Satinalia

Rating: General Audiences Relationships: Cullen Rutherford x Female Lavellan Words: 4977 Part:1/1

Summary: Lyla Lavellan reflects on her previous Satinalia experiences and is unsure how to feel when Josephine arranges a masquerade Satinalia ball at Skyhold.

A/N: Just a short little one-shot fic to get into the festive mood! Takes place before Adamant / Winter Palace and just after the first kiss on the battlements (and subsequent kisses, hehe).

Read on Ao3 -> here Read on FF.net -> here 

My clan could never understand the Thedosian obsession of Satinalia. I think I had been about six years old when clan Lavellan had approached a village in Fereldan and observed the dancing and merriment of villagers wearing strange masks and exchanging gifts. The village idiot had been declared ruler for the day and had sat on a hay-bale throne, mouth open and drooling in a drunken stupor. Needless to say, most of my clan had turned their noses up at the frivolity, and had waited a few days until it had all calmed down. Not me though - I was delighted to see people smiling, dancing and so happy and joyful. I longed to run around with the other children, chasing one another with presents and creating masks. I wanted so much to dance and sing with the bards, but the Keeper had always pulled me away by the ear. From then, the clan had always stayed clear from villages and towns during that time of year, but it was impossible to avoid. As a teenager I would slip out of the clan at night, sprint to the nearest village and observe the festivities. A sneaky trip to Denerim when I was a teenager still sits as one of my fondest memories and was a turning point in my life when I knew that I could not stay with my clan forever. The world was just too big to be in a self-imposed exile.

From then, the clan had always stayed clear from villages and towns during that time of year, but it was impossible to avoid. As a teenager I would slip out of the clan at night, sprint to the nearest village and observe the festivities. A sneaky trip to Denerim when I was a teenager still sits as one of my fondest memories and was a turning point in my life when I knew that I could not stay with my clan forever. The world was just too big to be in a self-imposed exile.

I think back to last year’s Satinalia, not knowing that it would be the last with my clan. And yet, I had given a gift to my Keeper and I think she knew that I would not be with her in a year’s time. Little did I know that I would be standing on a stone balcony overlooking an ancient keep as a leader of a revolutionary army. The thought sometimes sends me laughing at the ridiculous situation I’ve - literally - landed myself in. I wonder what this year’s Satinalia will be like, surrounded by humans?

There’s a knock at my door and I pull myself away from the afternoon sun on the balcony and head down the stairs. We’ve been at Skyhold for little over a month and I’m still getting used to this empty space as my own, personal chambers. The door flies open before I’m at the bottom step.

“We have lots of work to do,” Dorian says, striding into my chambers.

I close the door behind him and jog to keep up as he bounds up my stairs. “What do you mean?” Thoughts spill into my mind - a new area to close rifts I don’t know about? Has there been a sighting of Corephyeous? Are we too late to find the Grey Wardens?

Once on the landing, Dorian turns to me and grasps my upper arms, grinning mischievously. “There’s to be a Satinalia ball, here at Skyhold.”

I blink, all panicked thoughts of danger, the rifts - everything -  leaving my mind. It takes me a moment to adjust to this turn of events. “Here?” I repeat.

Dorian nods, and pushes past me towards my wardrobe, throwing the doors and draws open. I stand fixed by the fire, watching him rummage through my possessions, trying to comprehend what’s going on.

“Hang on, Dorian: you’re saying that despite everything going on, we’re taking a break to host a ball?” I say incredulously.

He pauses and throws me a glance over his shoulder. “Yes… will that be a problem, Inquisitor?” he asks with a smile, before going back to rummaging.

“I…” trailing off, I pause to think: is it a problem? I’ve always wanted to take part in Satinalia, but to host a ball, when we only left Haven just over a month ago? It seems strange to stop everything and have a party. The fight is far from over. I say as much to Dorian, who strides over to me and puts a finger on my mouth to silence me. I glare at him.

“Shush. Josephine’s already sent the invitations, hired a caterer and purchased the decorations. Vivienne has sent for her best seamstress from Val Royeaux: it’s too late to decline now.”

“But what about the Wardens to the West? I was going to head off there as soon as possible with Hawke and Alistair-”

“We’ll still go west, but not until after Satinalia. That gives us an extra day or two here to relax - Maker knows you haven’t caught your breath since you fell out the sky.”

I cross my arms, making a note to talk to each of my advisors about this arrangement. “Alright, so what work do we need to do?”

Dorian grins at me. “We need to find you an outfit.”

Once I’ve managed to detangle myself from Dorian’s probing - and eventually Vivienne’s, who also clucks over my wardrobe in equal measure - I slip downstairs into the keep, searching for my advisors. To my astonishment, there are hundreds of people now in Skyhold, all busy putting up drapes, lighting scented candles, adding fresh rushes to the floors. There are recruits, mages, templars, healers, cooks, servants all busying about, working together and talking excitedly.

I head straight to Josephine’s office where she’s sat at her desk, surrounded by rich merchants and dignitaries along with their servants.

“… the colour of the tablecloths must compliment the drapes, not the other way around.”

“Yes, Ambassador,” one rich merchant replies, a stack of cloths draped over their arms for inspection.

“Now for the masks - they must be tasteful, but not too Orlesian - we have a lot of Fereldans attending so it must strike a perfect middle ground.”

“Of course, Ambassador,” another merchant replies, nodding to their servant, who scribbles down notes.

At my approach, they incline their heads respectfully and Josephine smiles. “Perhaps we can conclude these details in a few minutes? I must speak with the Inquisitor.”

They all bow out of the room and the door shuts firmly behind them. I let out a sigh I didn’t know I was holding. “Josephine-”

“Inquisitor, I know what you’re going to say but please know that I’ve been planning Satinalia celebrations for the Inquisition for months now, back in Haven…I know I should have discussed this with you first, but I so do love Satinalia,” she smiles at me, sitting behind her desk.

“I know, but can we really afford to? I’m meant to head to the Western Approach…”

“In all of Thedas, the land comes to a stop for Satinalia,” she says. “It is only for one day.”

“Dorian has said as much,” I admit. “But will Corepheous stop his plans for a Satinalia celebration?” I say, in a tone harsher than I intended.

Josephine’s smile fades and she modestly looks down at her hands linked before her. “Commander Cullen said exactly the same,” she admits and my stomach twists. “But it is so good for morale to have just one day of rest - even if we do not stop until Satinalia next year.”

I look away, feeling a little ashamed. Of course - to these people, Satinalia is more than just a party. For many attending the ball, it might be the only good thing to remember in the middle of this strange war. In the brief glimpse I saw of the preparations, all of Skyhold were puling together to make the celebrations memorable. I suppose that no matter what comes, they will have this event to look back on. I relax and find myself coming to terms with it, despite all of the opulence of it.

“If you don’t mind my asking, Inquisitor Lavellan,” Josephine quietly interrupts my thoughts. “Did you not celebrate Satinalia with your clan…?”

I smile thinly. “Unfortunately not.” Her face falls, so I quickly continue: “But I always did. I used to sneak away from my clan just so I could join in all of the dancing.”

Her face brightens. “You did?”

I nod, smiling at the memories. “Once, just before I was old enough to have Vallaslin, I snuck into Denerim’s Alienage to see how the city elves celebrated. It was very similar to the human ones I had watched in the past, but with this one I slipped in easily. I ended up dancing until my feet were sore, my voice hoarse from singing and I know I stole a kiss with an elf or two… I can’t even remember now,” I laugh.

Josephine claps her hands with joy. “Oh, Inquisitor Lavellen, that sounds wonderful! Perhaps this Satinalia will be even more memorable, if you’re not opposed…?” she trails off hopefully.

I shake my head. “Not anymore, Josephine. I think it’s a lovely idea,” I admit, the words out of my mouth before I even realise what I’m saying. Moments later, Josephine is offering rushed thanks and apologies as she bustles me out of her office so she can continue the preparations.

I’ve come to acknowledge that this celebration is a good idea for morale, but the over-spending and extravagance of it all, I’m not as sold on. My feet take me upwards to Leliana’s rooms, where the corridors are bustling with arriving guests and servants dashing around, so I'm thankfully ignored as I blend in, hiding my green-anchor hand in my pocket. Upon the final step at the top of the tower, a crow swoops overhead and lands on Leliana’s desk, affectionally nipping the spymaster on the wrist. I pause and watch as she strokes its chest fondly, before untying a report from the leg.

She ignores my approach, absorbed in the report before finally looking up, her expression a trained mask.

“A message from the Hero of Fereldan,” she explains.

I perch on the edge of her desk and tilt my head to the side. “You’ve managed to find her?”

A wry smile crosses her lips. “I think I taught her too well - she doesn’t want to be found, but managed to send this message without being intercepted.”

“I assume she’s not coming to the Satinalia ball, then?”

“She would’ve declined, even if she were able. Surana was never one for ceremony - she enjoys it all about as much as Alistair.” Leliana sighs and I resist the temptation to pry any further. “But I digress - is there something I can do for you, Inquisitor?”

I spread my hands. “About this Satinalia ball…”

“It’s all a bit much, isn’t it?” Leliana supplies.

I nod. “Partly, yes. I know Satinalia is important, and I’ve already seen how those here are pulling together for a day of celebration… but it all feels a bit, over the top, considering, well everything.”

“I initially thought the same, Inquisitor,” Leliana admits. “But as Josephine will tell you, appearances are everything. We are seeking favour from Orlais, Ferelden and all of Thedas really. So we need to demonstrate that The Inquisition are an organisation to be taken seriously. The ball is sure to cause scandalous gossip, a night of intrigue and the potential advantage of new alliances. It would do no good for us to appear amateur.”

We fall into silence as I process her words. Unlike the town and village celebrations I attended in the past, this one would be bigger, grander and most possibly the most important I will ever be a part of. But to think that Leliana agrees with Josephine on this is rather surprising.

“So you don’t think this is a waste of time and money?” I say slowly.

A rare smile breaks on the spymaster’s face. “On the contrary - I’m almost giddy with excitement.”

I spend the rest of the afternoon helping out with some of the decoration errands, working closely with the servants, swapping stories and learning more about what Satinalia means to them. In my hours of work alongside them, I hear no complaints of the event, and infant hear so much excitement, that I can almost taste it. My stomach feels light as I realise that I too, am becoming more and more excited.

In the early evening, I slip away and quietly, survey the improvement works being made to Skyhold. Inevitably, my feet take me to the familiar tower belonging to a familiar person. I click my fingers anxiously before knocking. A muffled ‘enter’ bids me welcome before I push the door open.

As usual, my stomach does a strange little flip when I see Cullen standing hunched over his desk, and abundance of reports littered around him. A scout by the desk salutes me when I approach and bows out, making Cullen look up.

“Oh, there you are,” he says with a smile, as the scout makes a hasty retreat.

“You were waiting for me?” I say, feeling my eyebrow arch, ignoring the flutter in my stomach.

“I was… no, I wasn’t, but…”

I smile and perch on the edge of his desk, finding my confidence. “Perhaps I should leave and come back…?”

“No, no! That's ok!” he says hurriedly and I chuckle. “Is there… is there something I can do for you?”

“Hmm, you can tell me what you think of this Satinalia ball we’re apparently having.” A frown creases his face and I almost laugh at his response. “Not a fan, are we?”

“It’s not that: I’m Fereldan so I love Satinalia as much as the next person, but all of this extravagance? A ball? How did I get outvoted on this…” he mumbles sourly.

“I thought the same,” I say, and he looks surprised. “I thought that this morning after Dorian and Vivienne hampered me with dresses. But then I spoke to Josephine and Leliana and… my mind has been changed.”

His mouth falls open. “You’re… alright with this?”

I snort. “Not all the over-spending, no. As someone who’s had little to no materialist items all my life, it does all seem very opulent. But even so - it could be to the Inquisition’s benefit.”

Cullen sighs. “I suppose.”

“So will you attend tomorrow night?”

“Attend the ball? No, I’m sorry Inquisitor. Balls just aren't my thing and neither Josephine or Leliana insisted I attend.”

I think that I am well within my right to insist he does, but I’m loathe to pull rank on him. Our little relationship is still in very early days and is a secret to all but us, and I don't want to jeopardise that. Instead I take a different tactic - a more… unprofessional one.

“They’re not my sort of thing either, but it would be a shame to not attend a masquerade ball…” I trail off, licking my lips, feeling a moment of glee when I see him watching.

Sliding off the desk, I stretch and stifle a yawn. “Well if you change your mind, I’ll be the woman dressed in red,” I say, my voice low. I turn and leave, feeling his eyes on me and loving every moment even as my confident resolve breaks once I’m out of his sight. Creators, when did I become so bold?

“Stop fussing, the lace trim is far too much,” Dorian says, swatting Vivienne’s hand away.

“It adds a tease of sophistication, my dear,” she insists, holding the lacy material in place around the low cut of my dress.

“This isn’t Orlais,” Dorian snaps.

“And this isn’t Tevinter,” she retorts, just as sharp.

“Please, the both of you, just stop,” I groan rubbing my forehead. “Let me at least see my reflection in the looking-glass.”

They oblige and help me step forward to the full-length mirror, the long dress pooling on the floor around my feet making it so hard to move. This sort of dress is completely foreign to me, and despite the impracticality of it all, I can’t help but secretly relish being dressed up for a change.

Since late morning, my relaxed Satinalia breakfast had been interrupted with a flurry of drapes, dresses and bickering, and I’m shattered already. My hair has been pulled in all sorts of directions, pinned tight onto my head, only to be pulled out later, so my growing blonde locks fall in graceful ringlets down my back. I feel half-naked without my leather breeches on, and incredibly exposed as the dress scoops low down my back and teasingly low at the front. I fan away Vivienne’s persisting hand to add lace, and instead opt for the simplicity of the material.

When I look in the mirror I do not recognise the woman staring back at me. Blonde hair graciously frames my face in delicate waves, a sweet holly and ivy hairpiece tucked in neatly towards the back. As I look over the long, deep red dress, Vivienne dabs perfume to my exposed neck and collarbone, making me shudder at the touch. The velveteen sleeves are long with a gold trim along the edge that catches the light when I move and my body looks so lithe and slender, I do not know I could look so… graceful.

“Now to add the mask…” Dorian says, attaching it with clips nestled in my hair. It’s a sort mask that covers my upper face, leaving my mouth and chin exposed to accentuate my long neck. The mask is the same red velveteen as my dress and my green eyes peer through in curiosity, knowing that all the attending guests will not know who I am, unless announced. The thought of being disguised for a whole evening sense a ripple of excitement through me.

“And now a gift for you,” Vivienne says, after applying her own mask. She passes me a heavy box which I open carefully gasping at the contents. There are a pair of delicate golden slippers with a small heel, incredibly understated but perfectly beautiful.

“I…I can’t…” I stammer, lost for words.

“They came straight from my favourite designer in Orlais. Leliana will be seething with jealousy,” she smiles, a wicked twinkle in her eye.

“They are stunning, Vivienne,” I say. “But I cannot accept these-”

“I insist, darling.”

After slipping them on, I note that I will never want to take them off. Not only are they beautiful, but they’re practical and I know I could run in them if I needed to make a quick escape. Dorian and Vivienne lead me out of my chambers and we enter the great hall, my heart hammering in my chest with apprehension.

The hall is so crowded with guests talking and dancing that my entrance is not noticed by anyone. Vivienne swans over to some of her guests, whilst I clutch Dorian’s arm, gazing around the hall in wonder at the decorations, the smells of the sweet food, the sound of the musicians. I watch as masked couples take to the centre of the hall to dance in step; some dances more lively than others. There’s a sense of dignity around the room, but the occasional dance brings out the more fun and relaxed side of the ball. I see servants, mages, templars all talking, singing and sharing stories and I relent and agree that this idea of Josephine’s was a good idea after all. i notice a few heads turn to look at me and I grip Dorian’s arm tighter.

“Do they recognise me?” I whisper quickly, disappointment setting in at the thought of no longer being anonymous.

“I don't believe so - they’re just looking at the belle of the ball,” he grins, and I give him an affectionate smack on the arm.

“Don’t be ridiculous,” I say, but my face warms at the notion. Not for the first time this evening, I’m grateful for the mask covering half my face.

We stand to the side and sip some champagne as I watch over the crowd. A few noble men approach me and ask to dance, but Dorian shoos them away before I have a chance to answer. I try to ask him why but he ignores me and tops up my champagne glass pointing out various members of my Inner Circle. I realise that I can keenly observe them without them knowing it’s me, so I scan the hall.

I notice Varric leaning against the wall at his usual spot by the fireplace in the corner. He’s speaking dramatically with hands spread wide and many exaggerated expressions on his face as he explains his abbreviated take on Hard in Hightown. The nobles gathered gasp at the appropriate moments and one woman fans herself when hearing about Hawke’s private relations.

Cassandra stands with her arms crossed, leaning against the wall, just outside the circle of nobles around Varric. Despite her mask, I can still identify her strong jaw jutting forward and her eyes rolling at Varric’s anecdotes. From here, I can almost hear her disgruntled protests, but when Leliana approaches her in a dark and nondescript black outfit, Cassandra relaxes.

Leliana glides away from Cassandra and speaks in low voices with Josephine. The woman who created this event is smiling politely, but grins honestly when speaking to Leliana. The two share a few secrets with wry smiles, and point subtly to some attending nobles. Minutes later, Leliana moves swiftly through the crowd around the dance floor, and mutters secrets to other visiting nobles. I admire the way she melts into the crowd and I wish I could do the same, sometimes. I make a note to ask her how.

I look up to the balcony where the musicians are and spot Sera sitting on the edge of the railing, her feet dangling over the edge. She’s looking down with a bored expression, but bursts into laughter when she hears something whispered in her ear. Next to her, also perched on the edge, is Cole and between them, I know they’re up to mischief. I can only imagine Cole is revealing some of the juiciest secrets of these nobles, just to make Sera feel better about attending.

Blackwall stands just on the edge of the celebrations, casting curious glances to Josephine who is in her element. I watch with curiosity as he approaches Josephine, looks down at his feet, then backs away, his head bowed. The Ambassador watches after him with a somewhat fond expression on her face.

To my surprise, I see Solas speak charmingly to a group of ladies - both human and elven. He flashes them charming smiles I would never have thought possible from him, and actually, I can tell he’s enjoying it. I narrow my eyes, still not sure if I can suss him out. He wears smart elven clothes, something my Keeper would’ve worn to a prestigious event, and I’m amazed when I see his eyes roam over a suave elven woman who leans in to whisper something in his ear.

Iron Bull stands by the kitchen doors, watching each and every red-haired serving go come and go. He occasionally tries to initiate a conversation, but they smile politely and decline. It’s here that I notice Dorian looking in his direction and I sense something change when Iron Bull looks back at him. There's a look between them impossible to miss.

“Am I missing something?” I say casually to Dorian.

“Hmm?” he says distractedly.

“Iron Bull…?” I prompt, giving him a nudge.

Dorian ‘tsks’ under his breath. “Don’t be preposterous,” he says, but he doesn’t take his eyes off him until two figures walk over to us. I instantly reconise Vivienne stride through the crowd, a tall blonde man beside her.

It’s Cullen.

He's wearing deep green formal wear, the jerkin edged with golden thread. His mask also covers half of his face, but I’m getting to know those golden eyes anywhere, and besides, that teasing lip scar is clearly on show. He seems curious but uncomfortable at being walked through the hall with Vivienne de Fer, and looks confused when they come to a halt before us. Instantly I begin to understand Dorian and Vivienne’s insistence upon my attendance with a mask.

Vivienne exchanges a look with Dorian, but I’m not too aware of what it could mean. Instead I feel Cullen’s eyes on me, trying to work out who I am, and I look back, smiling shyly and chewing my bottom lip, hoping he knows it’s me, when all others don’t.

“Dorian, could you be a dear and introduce me to the Nevaran ambassador?” Vivienne says. “I’m sure Cullen here will be in capable hands with your guest.”

Dorian’s eye sparkle with mischief and he winks at me from behind his mask. I squeeze his upper arm in thanks and I’m left alone, feeling exposed in this slimming dress before this shemlen I’m becoming far too attached to.

I tilt my head to the side, a wry smile tugging the corner of my lips. “Do you not recognise me, Commander?”

Cullen begins to shake his head. “Beg your pardon, my lady, but I-” he halts, blinks then grins. “Lyla?” he whispers, so quietly, I can hardly hear him over the music and laughter of the ball.

My stomach flutters as I hold out my hand to him - my left hand with the mark. He takes it with no hesitation and our fingers entwine together.

“I…” he begins. “You look incredible,” he says into my ear so only I can hear.

“You scrub up pretty good yourself,” I reply, and I receive a low chuckle that rumbles in his chest in response.

“I was wondering what Vivienne was up to,” he says. “She stormed into my office with this outfit and mask and demanded that I attend.”

“It’s quite simple really,” I say, taking a sip of champagne, before placing it on a passing servant’s tray. “As it stands, what’s between you and I… between us, is still…” I search for the right words. “A bit of an Inquisition secret.”

“And yet gossip spreads…”

I nod. “That it does, but for tonight, we can be together, in public and not worry about political implications to gossip. Nobody here knows who we are, except those two,” I nod to the cunning pair, who are watching us over the rims of their wine goblets.

He smiles, cottoning on. “That means I can, I mean we can-”

I reach up and kiss him, feeling my stomach flip at the contact, as the people around us are oblivious to who we are. The Commander and the Inquisitor is something the noble dignitaries cannot afford to know yet. It sends a thrill through me as we begin to make our relationship more… official.

“I wish we could tell everyone,” he sighs, our foreheads resting.

I squeeze his gloved hands. “As do I.”

“It takes every strength in me not to shout it from the rooftops,” he laughs.

I laugh and wrap my arms around his neck, whilst his hands rest naturally on my waist. I shudder at the touch, at the intimate contact between us, my mouth dry with unsaid words and anticipation. But the music starts up to a festive dance and we look at each other hesitantly.

“You know I can’t dance,” he says after a moment.

“Thank the Creators, neither can I. Although Josephine is threatening to give me lessons before the ball at the Winter Palace.” I cringe at the thought.

“Count me out of those, if you will,” he groans and I chuckle but agree.

We stand on the edge and watch other couples dance, never once breaking the touch between us, be that his arm draped casually around my waist, or our fingers interlocked as we speak conversationally to other nobles. It’s something I’ve seen countless times at previous Satinalia celebrations of lovers never wanting to break the touch. I did not think that I would be in this position. We speak of non-sensical things, forgetting all of our troubles as we learn the finer details such as our favourite colours, least favourite foods and the like. It’s a strange thrill to be doing something so average to some people and so normal. I didn't realise I was craving it until being given this chance.

At midnight, there’s a final long but lively dance and singing before toasts and exchanging of gifts. With dismay I know the evening has flown by and I'm desperate to make it last longer, to remember each and every moment and commit it to my memory. I turn to Cullen.

“I’m so sorry, I didn’t get you a gift! I've never really, officially, attending a Satinalia event before…”

He smiles. “You’ve already given me the greatest gift - of being here, with me.”

I roll my eyes. “Oh Cullen, would you like some crackers with that cheese?” I laugh and peck him on the cheek under his mask.

“I’m sorry but it’s true,” he grins and the way he’s looking at me makes me feel so… wonderful.

The party starts to disperse around us and Cullen offers me his arm: “Let me escort you to your room, my lady,” he says formally and I smother a chuckle as he leads me away.

At the the door, I am loathe to part his company and want oh, so much more, but we both know that we cannot, not now and not quite yet. Instead he pulls me close, taking one long and deep kiss before mumbling, “Happy Satinalia, Inquisitor.”

I arch an eyebrow at his boldness and thread my fingers through his hair, desperate to take the mask off. As his hands cup my face, our lips lightly touching, I feel his own gloved fingers search for the clips to my mask, but I stop him as I see a few nobles lingering with poorly disguised interest.

I rest my hands on his chest and lick my lips. “Happy Satinalia, Commander,” I reply before slowly and regrettably back away into my rooms. I leave him standing there, knowing I will never forget that look on his face, a secret look only shared between the Commander and the Inquisitor.

Thank you for reading! Likes and reblogs loved. :) 

[mistralrunner]

Trespasser Liveblog, Part 1: Ruins and Reunions

I decided to post my reactions to playing Trespasser with my Inquisitor, Menel Lavellan, cause why not. I watched @inner-muse​ play Trespasser with her Trevelyan when the DLC first came out, so I’m spoiled for a good portion of it, but considering I forgot things, didn’t read many of the codices, didn’t have the context at the time to notice some details, and my Inquisitor is rather different from hers, I’m hoping to be surprised by some things.

The game starts out swimmingly as Menel Lavellan’s face isn’t fully loaded and looks derpy for the opening scene. I reloaded.

Negotiations at Halamshiral are always a kind of punch in the face for a Lavellan

I’m so powerful and yet I still can’t get a Dalish homeland.

The march parade thing is two competent diplomats and Cullen, but his whining is very useful for exposition and probably getting the general Inquisition member pov.

Ahh the theme. Ahh the anchor. It’s really happening.

Mother Giselle: The Dales are finally recovering Menel: *knows he should be happy the shemlen aren’t suffering and somewhat is but considering their homes are on land stolen from his people* *is polite and gracious anyway*

I am so happy I get to reference that conversation about the Inquisition putting down their swords in game yesss. I have a fondness for that sort of thing.

Varric you are the best for negotiating a deal with Wycome’s council, especially with cities like Starkhaven around.

I’m honestly surprised they referenced Clan Lavellan’s fate since Inquisition did such a poor job of tying in character origins. Happy, but surprised.

All hail Viscount Varric he who does not wear the silly pointy crown

I wonder what happens if your Hawke took the Viscount position in DA2 though. Cause Tamara Hawke avoided that route like the plague.

I hesitated re: where to go next and then headed over to the tavern cause new songs. Who are these diplomats that I should probably be speaking to first?

I do not regret making Cole more human cause it made sense to Menel and also fit with Menel’s character arc but I do not ship this ship. It came out of nowhere and the implication that romance is a part of becoming human kind of rubs me the wrong way. It’d be nicer if they were just buddies roaming about making people happy. At least Menel’s reaction mirrored how weirded out I am.

Hehehe Menel you nerd distracting Bull are you even taking this seriously. The Veil as a vibration repelling the Fade part is interesting though given what’s to come.

I just realized Dalish and Menel have the same hairstyle. Huh.

Serraaaaa <3

Menel is no Jenny but he is there to be a friend always.

Sera’s journal is a mix of humor and feels as always. I do wonder how obvious Menel’s pain is to the general populace, and not just observant people like Sera. I headcanon Vivienne and her tailor fashioned formal attire for Menel that cloaked the glowing to some extent.

Josieeee my diplomat buddy

I’m so happy she takes a break and that she considers me enough of a friend to invite me.

Glad to see it’s still Leliana despite the silly new hat. Wanting to borrow Scout Harding to find more nugs, and not hiring anyone without first observing them in a room of baby nugs.

Why is there floating cheese?

It’s just hanging in the air near the palace entrance.

For context I should mention I headcanon that Menel was already in talks with Ferelden about disbanding the Inquisition and relocating members and Ferelden is covering it up by acting buffoonishly belligerent cause the Orlesians will absolutely believe that. Of course things are still tenuous cause the Inquisition has power and Ferelden is probably concerned they’ll be betrayed.

Arl Teagan: Redcliffe remembers its savior. Me: Which one?

Aww I can read Alistair’s letter in his voice wait what how dare you

"Someone, presumably His Majesty, has drawn a stick figure weighed down by an oversized crown at the bottom of the page."

I wonder if that letter is different with a warden romanced Alistair, since technically my canon is that @inner-muse’s Cousland and my Mahariel were wardens together and her Cousland becomes queen.

Oooh the landscape is so pretty.

And that makes Menel sad. Cause Halamshiral.

Fitting the journey ends here at the place named for journey’s end

DORIAN

PFFT CYRIL'S THE NEW DUKE OF CHATEAU HAINE PFFT

All references to Chateau Haine amuse me.

Ugh I really hate the reuniting Briala and Celene option. All the options stink but maybe I should have gone for the triumvirate instead. It was out of character to put a warmonger like Gaspard in power for Menel and I headcanoned that the romantically reuniting dialogue didn’t really happen and it was more like Menel and Briala cornered Celene politically but ugh. The commentary is disgusting even without what I know of The Masked Empire and is hard to listen to.

A fountain with Orlesian lions is such a great commemoration for a Dalish elf

Leliana's right next to a chessboard wow

That Leliana conversation was so good on so many levels. Bonus points for the hand focus

"You and I have come so far through the darkness together. It is time for us both to live in the light."

Thanks Leliana I didn't expect these feels

Now can you please please repeat this speech to Rhovan Mahariel

Pupppyy

I'm still angry we didn’t get a mabari. Menel respects the mabari's intelligence and finds it typical of Orlais to abandon one but doesn't understand my resentment

The line about how the mabari should know where they came from is so Dalish

I forgot the dog treats gave you a constitution bonus!!

My initial reaction to said bonus was tied between “Scary mabari magic” and “Honestly Menel will need it”

Dorian needs a hug

Aaaaah creepy purple smoke things even before the Eluvians that spooked me

Okay there are chessboards everywhere. Even more fitting considering who we’re seeing at the end of this DLC.

Spa day with Vivienne! Admittedly I headcanon Menel has full body vallaslin so seeing him in the swimsuit is weird. .

Hehe Sera in the background steals the show.

Glad to know Vivienne still ships Cassandra and Menel

Love how Leliana has her own guard, nice helmets too, oh they still have the same weird face belt thing as Sebastian

I had a weird feeling about that guy and he vanished right in front of me in creepy smoke like the last one

Saved talking to Cassandra for last. I know what Varric tells her in the case of other romances, but would he really lie about a proposal in this case?

Probably

Casssaaaandraaa she’s so adorable when startled and would probably kill me if I said so

Seriously Varric. Not surprised at all, but seriously.

The awkward silence was excellent.

I really like how this was handled. Cause this is not the right time, they’re busy with their respective duties, Menel is increasingly concerned about the state of his hand, and an Orlesian council isn’t really that romantic to either of them, and they both recognize it and accept that.

But her line about not even the Maker can keep her away coming from Cassandra

You know, Varric technically wasn’t wrong. Cause a quasi proposal did kind of happen in the sense of a conversation about are you okay with a proposal sometime in the future

Okay meeting time, which is clearly not going to be interrupted.

Really Teagan those comments about the wardens were unnecessary

The exile meant that there were very few wardens to combat the Blight, which by the way nearly destroyed your country about a decade ago as opposed Sophia Dryden messing things up hundreds of years ago.

I get we have a tenuous secret arrangement but slandering the wardens is not the way to cover it up.

I kind of just want the Hero of Ferelden to barge into the Council cause that would be hilarious.

Also Menel seriously in pain and struggling to cover it up during these tense talks and Josie's look of concern

Nice, this time they actually have guards blocking off the area rather than just no one noticing the obvious bloodstains in the Winter Palace

Eluvian!

*Rhovan Mahariel’s furious screeching in the distance*

*touches the glass and it makes a fun splooshing noise and pretty light effects* *touches again*

Rhovan “DON’T TOUCH THE GLASS TAMLEN” Mahariel is so done right now

The Crossroads is so much prettier as an elf all the colorsss

I don't have to fight the guardian spirits I am so happy. I could only parse some of the elvish but I feel like it’s cheating to look up an official translation if there is one?

We can't imagine why the Qunari think the Inquisition is in cahoots with Fen'Harel it can't possibly be because the Inquisitor talked to the spirit guardians activated by an agent of Fen'Harel and they attacked the Qunari but let the Inquisitor pass

Huh Vivienne is the first to suggest the Fen'Harel as the deceiver thing is propaganda, fitting considering she knows courts

Constant glowingggg Anchor yes

Sera: The Dalish. Are going. To shit themselves. Menel, a Dalish: ...

Cullen shut up Josie's job is important

I'm so sorry Josie. Our plan is falling apart and I'm not helping. You’re so talented but you should not be carrying this weight alone.

Where is the Tirashan where elves like Sentinels supposedly are

I forgot how much I love Cole’s cryptic lyrical statements. All the alliteration makes me happy.

“Your hand hurts. A heartbeat, not yours, hammering the beat of a song in its final verse. I’m sorry.”

“The spirits have fled, flying, fluttering, fast to the farthest Fade. They’re afraid of the Veil tearing again. ”

Also not concerning at all, nope.

Glad to see Sera still ships Menel and Cassandra, even if her humor is admittedly crude.

"Elf-loovians" pfft

Sera: Are you all right with it? The...Creators? Menel: I don't think I am, Sera. Sera: I...don't know words that fix things. But you have friends. We're real. Please remember that.

Excuse me as I cry

Aaaah Sera says the Jenny near Wycome says my clan is doing well aaaaah

Eluvian, part II!

I already know it’s the Deep Roads, so looks like I’m bringing Varric along!

I am really intrigued by this Dalish elf writing these notebooks, and also the fact that there was another misplaced Dalish in Kirkwall besides Merrill and Feynriel’s mother. Admittedly Merrill didn’t really engage much with the alienage community until much later.

I really do appreciate the Qunari ingenuity in finding people who know things and extracting information and then building upon it. The independence and unwillingness to cooperate with anything they don’t control not so much.

Yeah the Fen'Harel and Mythal in cahoots thing is unnerving to Menel. Also it’s been two years and the Well of Sorrows failed to mention anything about that until now? And elfy ruins underground feels so wrong.