#why didn't they allow you to make an elven circle mage in dai?

[elliot-ayy]

a private moment between friends

[sea-side-scribbles]

Solas wakes up in the strange new world of his own making and it terrifies him. Ridden with guilt, he joins the Inquisition and begins his lonely research in order to correct his mistake.

He doesn’t expect to find consolation in the presence of a human who wields ancient elven magic without knowing it. Who is way too gentle for an elgar’thanelan, but doesn’t know that either.

Solas, for his part, doesn’t know how to stay away.

Dorian wonders if the mysterious elf just enjoys playing with a Tevinter. He wouldn’t expect anything else.

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Part 1 | Chapter 1- 13 | Right after uthenera, Solas is found by a Dalish clan. This goes well until it doesn’t. (Basically my excuse for world building and hilarious misunderstandings.)

Part 2 | Chapter 14 - ? | Solas joins the Inquisition.

Chapter 17

On the way to the mages' tents, Solas crossed the camp of Commander Cullen's troops who trained, fighting each other or practising on mannequins. He had to force himself not to stare. Magicless combat was still fascinating to him, despite its clumsiness. He indeed came across the Commander on this way through and used the opportunity to approach him.

“Knight Commander Cullen, I presume?”, he said politely. “My name is Solas. I believe we haven't been introduced yet.” “You're...the apostate that helped with the Breach?” The Commander eyed him, but had a friendly tone, competing his lyrium aura. “Yes, we haven't met, but I already heard a lot about you. It seems like you don't shy away from a good fight.” “I am here to help in any way I can.” “Huh, I like that spirit. You seem to know a great deal about rifts.” “Well, I am glad my knowledge is useful in this dire times.” “It is.” After a short pause, the Commander suggested: “Do you think about joining my forces? I can use everybody who's ready to do what must be done.” Solas made an effort to hide his surprise. “I was not aware that you allow mages, especially apostates, to fight alongside your soldiers.” “Well, there was a time where I wouldn't have...”, Cullen began, but hesitated. His face fell a little, then he hardened his features again. “But these days are over. If the Templar Order and the Circles would still be intact, I could summon Circle Mages as allies. Now, I work with whoever is willing to serve the cause.”

“Does that mean you attend to the remaining mages and treat them as equals?” The Commander tensed, then let out a breath. “There's...still a certain tension on both sides. It's hard to trust a rebellion that sacrifices innocent lives, doesn't even spare farmers and beggars.” “You could say the same about the rebelling templars. And it is equally difficult to trust your former prison guards who treated you as less than people.” Cullen sighed again. For a moment, Solas could watch his handsome features crumble. Pain, doubt and regret had left their marks his face. If Varric's book could be trusted, Commander Cullen had seen both outcomes: endured torture as a young templar in a corrupted Circle and then watched his Knight Commander Meredith get consumed by her own hate.

“It didn't have to be like this”, Cullen said quietly. “The templars have lost their way, but their cause is righteous.” It wasn't clear if he spoke to Solas or himself. “Seeker Pentaghast seems to think so as well”, Solas offered. “It might be the right moment to remember their cause and reform the order.” “If there is an order left after the war!”, Cullen blurted out. “Maker knows what this is - a new beginning or our doom! And now the Breach!” He buried his face in his hands for a second, frantically wiping his brow. “Excuse me. Sometimes it's a bit much.” “Perhaps we have Andraste on our side”, Solas said calmly. Cullen gave him a surprised look. “You're not Andrastian, are you?” “Why, because I am an elf? I am not Dalish, either. I am open to different ideas unless I can prove them wrong.” “Well, this is...unexpected from an elf.” “I am glad to broaden your perspective.” “I didn't mean to offend you.” “..which is unexpected from a templar, so I suppose we are even.” Cullen smiled, albeit confused.

“Actually, I meant to meet with the mages”, Solas went on. “To offer them my advice. They will have to face more rifts eventually.” The Commander nodded. “I suppose I can't argue with that. Just in case you'd try anything...funny, the place is guarded by templars.” “So, I assume the air is filled with lyrium?” “...naturally?” Now Solas sighed. “Quite a way to motivate your allies, Knight Commander.” He let him chew on that as he moved on to the mages' tents. The templars watched the place warily. Their numbers still sufficed to keep them at bay. No wonder they were afraid and unfocused. The call of the Breach didn't make it better. Solas himself felt dizzy here, he could only imagine how the mages felt. He sought out the largest tent, assuming that it served as their common room. When he politely nodded to the templars at the entrance, they barely flinched.

Entering the tent, Solas found the mages huddling in the corners, cramped and silent. All eyes followed him. “Good morning, fellow mages”, he greeted. “I hope I do not intrude. My name is Solas and I am here to offer you my assistance.” “You are the elf”, a woman declared, her voice floating as if she was in trance. Her state clearly wasn't well, but everyone seemed to know what she meant. “I suppose you have heard of me then?” From another corner someone snapped: “Did they lock you in here with us or are you here to make sure we behave?” Solas turned his head. The man glared at him. “Neither. I want to help you. With the rifts, the demons and with your overall situation.” That stirred the group.

“Do you speak to the Lady Seeker then? Tell her we're like animals in a cage?” “Why would she care about us?”, someone else hissed. “This is exactly what she wants.” “Your chances are better than you think”, Solas replied. “The Seeker has a different opinion than most clerics. She is aware of the corruption in the Templar Order and her own. In addition, she will need the help of the rebel mages to close the Breach. This threat is greater than the war.” “So she'll use us to save the world and then lock us back into the towers”, came another voice. “This is not decided yet. She'll be more willing to grant you freedom if you are remembered as heroes rather than rebels.” “Heroes?” Someone laughed. “We're no heroes, just monsters by the Chantry's law.”

“I am sorry I cannot make promises, I can only help you to stand against the threat and to resist the call of the Breach, keep your sanity. Only then, you have a chance to make a difference in this war. And I am not a watchdog. You may speak your mind. As an apostate, I do not favour the Chantry. I am accepted here because of the Lady Seeker's open mind.” Their looks softened a little and their muscles released some of the tension. Still, they didn't dare to move. “You also have allies among the soldiers”, Solas went on. “There was a man named Asher who asked me to help you.” To his surprise, their reaction wasn't positive. “There are two kinds of solders”, a mage explained, holding up two fingers. “One that sees us as monsters and wants us dead, and the other that keeps asking where their lost relatives are. But there's no kind that cares about us. We are the sorry bastards without family.” “I have a brother!”, the woman in trance suddenly shouted. “...Or with family that doesn't give a shit,” the mage concluded. “My brother cares about me! He just doesn't know where I am!” “Yeah, yeah, same old story. Does your brother even look for you? No, he doesn't. Because you're a mage.” The woman sobbed. “Why are you like this?” “Shut up, both of you”, another woman hissed. ”The templars...” “Let them come! I don't care!”

“Wait!” Solas raised his hands and cast a spell, a soothing aura that spread in the tent, pushing some of the lyrium out. Hopefully, it was soft enough to not be recognized by templars or to be felt uncomfortable. The mages fell silent, but they appeared to welcome the new atmosphere. “You care about yourselves, don't you?”, Solas asked. “That alone is worth fighting for.” The spell helped his words to bloom in the minds of the mages. “Let me help you.” Then he had their attention.

About midday, the bells of the Chantry suddenly rung. It was a sign for everyone in Haven to flock the building. Commander Cullen coordinated the march into the village. When the soldiers arrived before the building, the closest they could get in between the masses, Solas recognized Seeker Pentaghast, Sister Leliana, the Dalish woman and another woman, probably a noble, standing at the entrance. A group of clerics stood behind them. Cullen joined them when he had made his way through the masses. Then Cassandra stepped forward. She didn't have to quieten her audience, they were already standing in silence and awaiting orders.

“Honoured sisters and brothers of the Chantry, templars, mages, soldiers and villagers of Haven”, her voice resounded in the wide place, as if it came from the mountain behind her, “it was Divine Justinia's will to overcome the chaos, to restore order and to bring peace to Thedas. Now it is our duty to act out her will. We will reinforce the principles of which the Chantry was founded, close the Breach, find the attacker and bing them to justice. Therefore, I declare the Inquisition reborn.” Murmuring ensued, probably by the villagers, for the soldiers were too disciplined to open their mouths. A Chantry sister walked before the Seeker. holding out something. A book? Cassandra placed one hand on it and lifted the other as she vowed: “I, Seeker Pentaghast, Right Hand of Divine Justinia, pledge my will and my forces to the Inquisition.” Then it was the Left Hand's turn. “I, Sister Leliana, Left Hand of Divine Justinia, pledge my knowledge and my allies to the Inquisition.” She was followed by Commander Cullen.

Solas understood that an Inquisition with authority would receive assistance from all over Thedas. A smart decision. And it meant that the Divine's Hands would work together for now. Cullen was another curious one. So far, he appeared willing to serve. Lastly, the Dalish woman spoke. Her speech was almost drowned by shouts from the crowd, but not the sort one would expect. They called her “Herald of Andraste”, blessed her, prayed to her. When she lifted her glowing hand to vow, the shouts became cheers. In her red and golden Circle robe, one could even take her for a member of the Chantry. She simply said: “I, Ellana Lavellan, Keeper's First of Clan Lavellan, pledge myself to the Inquisition.”

Solas decided to make his agents look for clan Lavellan and find out her motivation for coming here. It may not be a coincidence that she had the mark and her confusion could be fake. Now, she so certainly gave herself to a Chantry organisation, no shyness in her voice. She was a Keeper, after all. The mark overshadowed her aura, but Solas was aware she possessed it. Whoever obtained control over Mythal's vallaslin couldn't be trusted. At the end of the ceremony, new banners were hoisted on the Chantry's facade – the Watchful Eye and the Blade of Mercy, intertwined to form the Inquisition's sigil. The people cheered, soldiers lifted their swords in the air. It was a mix of ceremonial choreography and real emotions. In contrast, the mages around Solas remained quiet.

On the march back to the camp, they began whisper to each other. “The Inquisition of old was formed to kill mages likes us.” “They think we created the Breach. They will kill us all.” “I'll never go back to a tower. I'll rather join the rebellion.” Nervous looks were cast at Solas. They, together with the stirred veil and the spirits calling from the Breach, almost gave him a headache. He pinched his nose in frustration.

Enduring the Dalish superstitions against mages had been difficult enough, but at least the elves had an overall positive view on the usefulness of them. Here, in Haven, between fearful humans, Solas truly felt what it meant to be a mage in this world. To be a normal person, simply with a stronger connection to the sky. In the old world, they would've been leaders, generals, scholars, artists, the most talented examples of the People. Here, they were prisoners. Slaves, even. Considered monsters for doing what was naturally given to everyone. To hear what permeated every element of the world – the song of creation. A terrible fire burned in his guts. In a way, he had made the world silent. All he could do now was to help these mages survive.

Back in the tent, they kept glancing at him with wary looks. The ice he had broken hours ago had regrown. Finally, Alaric, a mage who had been brought to a Circle at the age of ten, blurted out: “What does this mean for us, elf? Inquisition? What is the Seeker's plan? You didn't mention it at all!” “I was not aware she would rebuild the Inquisition”, Solas replied full of sympathy. “But the threat remains – the Breach must be closed.” “But it's more likely they sacrifice us to save their world”, a woman, Sibyl, concluded sadly. She was a young apprentice, still years apart from becoming an Enchanter, and she already prepared for her death. “Such a sacrifice is not necessary”, Solas pointed out. “It doesn't meant they won't do it.” “Listen, I did not lie to you when I said the Right and Left Hand of the Divine showed no hostility towards mages.” “As long as they think we'll go back to the Circle!”, Alaric snapped.. “There is no such thought. Both have plans to reform the Chantry. Seeker Pentaghast mentioned the Chantry has lost its true meaning when the Circles became prisons. Sister Leliana has noted the same. Commander Cullen submits to their plans, or does he trouble you?” “Well, not less than any other templar. But we're still alive, if you mean that”, Alaric said sarcastically. He earned a few cramped laughs.

“In addition, the Herald of Andraste is a mage herself. As a Dalish elf, she can even be considered an apostate.” That shook them. “And they truly don't blame it on her? She was in chains when they transported her out of the temple”, Mabel, one of the few experienced Enchanters asked. “She is found innocent. Also, she is our only hope to close the Breach. You see, we need all forces in Thedas against this threat and the Inquisition is a way to achieve the authority for such an endeavour. It does not change your position. It can only better for you if you help the Inquisition. And you should meet with the Herald.” That found their approval.

He finished the lesson he had begun before the ceremony, then went back to the village, intending to pay the tavern a visit and then make himself a home in one of the cottages. Commander Cullen caught his attention, standing at the Chantry's entrance and nailing something to the door. Solas went closer, eyeing it curiously. Cullen noticed him. “The Proclamation of the Inquisition”, he explained. Solas regarded the parchment with many, tiny written letters. “Is there a short version?”, he quipped even though he was curious to read it all. Cullen tapped a line on the text and Solas read it. Into darkness, unafraid. That made him smile. “I see.” They exchanged quiet chuckles and Cullen went back to another task.

Solas began to read, hands clasped against his back, when someone opened the door and came to a halt in front of him. It was Ellana Lavellan. She seemed to be uncertain how to look at him. Her eyes got stuck on the pendant, then his cloak. “The Chosen of Andraste”, he greeted her with a little bow. “A blessed hero sent to save us all.” She let out an irritated breath. “Do you also believe the Maker sent me?” “Why should I not be open to such a thought?”, Solas said with the most innocent look. “Lacking the knowledge needed to prove it wrong?” “I am a Dalish elf.” She pressed a hand to her chest. “What would a shemlen god want from me?” “If the Maker has made this world and everything in it, it would also include you.” “Now you sound like a cleric.” She sighed again and shook her head. “Who are you? Are you an Andrastian? A...city elf?” Her eyes searched him.

Solas straightened himself. “I believe you ask if I am a flat-ear. Well, apparently, I am.” “I didn't say that. I'm just honestly curious.” “What else is there to know about me, I wonder? I am deluded, I forgot my tradition and am no better than a shemlen.” He now had a greater insight into the Dalish perspective and didn't hesitate to show it. “I wasn't...why...?” Ellana stuttered. He found it amusing that being confronted with her own superstition confused her. Then she caught herself. “Well, for once I'd like to know why you're wearing a costume. A Dalish costume, even. Although in a disrespectful, reckless and childish manner.” “Ah, a keen observation. You have answered your question yourself then.” “So...that is you? Just a gimmick at parties? To scare the naughty da'lens into going to bed?” “I remember I scared you not long ago.” “That's highly unfair. I went through the fade right before that and I woke up from a nightmare. Although I'm not sure I'm still in one.” Solas would've pitied her if it wasn't her fault.

“Perhaps I taught you a lesson there, to not blame your problems on traditional bogeymen so quickly.” “You taught me nothing!”, she replied sharply. “You don't know what you're dealing with!” “A pity. Next time you think you meet your worst nightmare, remember it's just me.” She huffed angrily. “You're the one who's giving in to superstition too quickly! Who told you to disrespect the Dread Wolf? The shemlen? Or do City Elves already mock their own culture?” “I prefer to think for myself, albeit it is frowned upon my many cultures.” “So you know nothing. You believe in your own fantasies.” “Answers aren't hard to find if you know where to look. Our ancestors left their marks in the fade, just waiting for an open mind to discover them.” “In the fade? You believe in your own dreams? In what demons tell you?” “I was wondering if you'd make the assumption. Fade means demons to you, all but lies and threats. The fade's true nature is not deceitful, if you look at it with open eyes.” She pressed her hands against her hips. “You should speak to a Keeper about it. That would be amusing.”

“But you recall that my delusions saved your life?” “I don't know what you really did”, she pointed out. “So far, you came out of nowhere and knew how the mark works.” “Suspicious, do you think? Then may I ask why a Dalish elf went to the Conclave?” “Now you suddenly think I'm a terrorist! Could you make up your mind?” “I am asking, not judging.” Ellana thought his tone was very judging. She wanted to strangle him with his coat, Dread Wolf forgive her. “The war affected us Dalish, too. Templars are on the hunt, killing everyone in their way and mage rebels raid all camps they can find for supplies. Nobody spares us. The Keeper sent me to the Conclave. We hoped the war would end. Now, I must stay to save the world.” “What difference would your presence at the Conclave have made?” “Well, you know, the shemlen don't deliver their news to us!” “That is true. The disadvantage of hiding in the woods.” Now she was about to slap him.

“You can leave if you like”, she snapped. “Nothing's holding you here.” “I am afraid I have to watch over the mark on your hand. It is our only hope, but it could also end your life before you can put it to use.” “Does that mean you will watch me sleep again?” A shiver ran down her spine. “No, that will not be necessary. I trust you to alarm the guards if something happens to you.” She relaxed. “What a relief.” Then she pointed a finger at him. “If I ever wake up to your lurking face again, I will feed you your own staff and that ridiculous coat! You understand?” He smiled. “It will not happen again, Herald.” Now his voice was soft. She could almost think it was real compassion. Now, she looked him in the eyes. “You disrespect your own culture. You tempt your fate, provoking the worst enemy of your people”, she summarized, loud and slowly, hoping he would get the message. “I thought you do not consider flat-ears to be a part of your people”, he said dryly. “You are elves, no matter where you live or what you believe in! We share the same fate!”, she said into his ignorant, blank face. “May you never have to learn your lesson!” With that, she stormed away, down the stone steps. Solas looked after her, pondering all the things he could've said instead.