attack0npotato - Tumblr blog

attack0npotato · 5 years ago

Text

You Don’t Know Me

Chapter 8. Enjoy.

“Cullen, come with me to the dance floor we can find out more there.” Ava muttered as she snatched up his hand, before he or Amell could protest.

They both went to the middle of the dance for, taking his hand and placing it on her side. Cullen’s face got a light touch of pink across his cheeks, before following his steps.

“Look around the room, tell me what you see.” Ava asked him looking around the room herself.

“I see a bunch of nobles staring at us, as well as the King of Ferelden.” Cullen replied trying not to trip over his feet.

“On my way here, I noticed that some servants are wearing a small silver snake on the cuffs of their sleeves, what group do we know that has such a symbol?” Ava questioned him yet again

“The Tevinter Imperium, but why would they be here?” He asked her

“The King of Ferelden is here, what more of an explication do you need, we need to get close to him.” She told Cullen “The only issue is we have to wait for them to try and strike.”

“That’s risky, and you know that.” Cullen said as they bowed to each other as the song ended to exit the dance floor.

“Yes, and that’s why we have to do something.” Ava murmured as she went up the stairs

Cullen followed behind her, he couldn’t help but notice the way her hips swayed as she went up the stairs; it made his face turn red at the thought. It felt odd to be looking at her in such a way, he looked up to her and quit literally in this moment. He caught him self slipping from reality yet again and shook the thoughts from his head as the approached the King of Ferelden, He was a witty man and the lost son of King Maric. Those who saw him before he became King say he still the same, using dry humor to get through boring noble meetings. He was currently standing in front of a masked woman who was chatting away while proceeded to nod pretending to listen as he stared off into the distance.

“Do you mind if I interrupt?” Ava asked in a polite tone to which the masked woman scoffed at, the woman curtsied to the King and went on her way.

“I must say thanks to my savior who just heroically rescued me from that utterly boring conversation.” The King said as he turned with a grin on his face

“King Alistair, it is always an honor meeting you. It’s no trouble saving you, your Majesty.” Ava retorted as she curtsied and returning to her normal stance.

“Oh, please enough of the ‘your majesty’, I’ve been hearing it all day and some normalcy would be quite nice.” King Alistair stated

“I can agree to that, I have a more pressing matter that is of your concern as well.” Ava told him as she stepped closer to him.

“Oh?” He raised an eyebrow to her words “and what might that be?”

“We believe that the Tevinter Imperium might try and assassinate you this evening.” She whispered to him.

“Well, that would be an act of war and that at the moment wouldn’t be the greatest thing in the world.” He said as his eyebrows furrowed together, he was about to say something when he noticed Cullen out of the corner of his eye. “Cullen Rutherford? Is that really you?” He approached Cullen with open arms who embraced the bear hug.

“Well, I didn’t know if I dare approach the great Archdemon slayer.” Cullen chuckled as they stepped back from each other.

“My wife did that, I just stood there and looked pretty.” He snickered

“That is what you do best, I didn’t forget about you slacking during templar training.” Cullen reminded King Alistair.

“Ah, yes. That is true, or when we used to chase the chantry sisters with frogs.” He nodded with a look of nostalgia.

Ava scanned the ballroom, looking at the whispering masks and shifty eyed servants. All she needed was a sign, something to tell her that the attack was going to happen, yet she felt like she was looking in all the wrong places. A servant went past her carrying a tray of drinks she quickly tapped the servants shoulder which nearly caused her to drop the tray of drinks.

“Excuse me, do you think I could bother you with some questions?” Ava spoke in crystal clear Dalish which stunned the elf for a moment.

“Yes, Ma’am.” She stammered

“Do you know that servant over there? The one with the silver snake on his cuff.” Ava asked her

“No, Ma’am. They arrived when a Tevinter Magister showed up.” The girl replied “I really must serve these drinks.”

“Alright, Thank you.” Ava said as she returned her attention back to King Alistair and Cullen’s’ conversation.

“What is her name? She never introduced herself.” King Alistair asked Cullen only for Ava to interject

“Ava Skywalker, I was a Knight Captain for the Ferelden circle.” She answered

“Really? I don’t remember seeing you there, then again a lot was happening at the time.” King Alistair said grabbing a drink off of a servant’s tray, which Cullen took away from him shaking his head.

“I managed to get away, not unscathed but I got out of there.” She gestured to her back with mangled scars.

“That is Gnarly, how’d you get that number?” King Alistair asked turning to face her

“An Ogre, wasn’t friendly clearly.” She sighed, that’s when she saw it. A glint of metal up above, she focused on it trying to make out what it was.

“I ran into one of those, big bastards will pick you up and shake you.” King Alistair rambled on

Cullen noticed that Ava wasn’t paying attention to Alistair at all, instead he tried to follow her gaze but couldn’t figure out what she was even looking at. What was she even looking at? What is she seeing? Cullen rambled on in his head which now becoming a bad habit, he replaced his gaze back onto Ava. That’s when she finally could make out what it was, an archer getting ready to fire a shot at the King of Ferelden. She didn’t have time to tell Cullen as the archer let out a breath which was a sure sign of an arrow getting ready to soar through the sky.

Ava sprung into action grabbing a servant’s tray and shoving King Alistair out of the way who fell into Cullen, the arrow went through the tray stopping inches away from Ava’s face. She tossed it down scanning the ballroom, standing a few feet away a tall man in a serpent’s mask flicked his wrist and those with the silver serpent pulled daggers and swords from places that wouldn’t be expected. Nobles ran screaming as they tried to escape the ballroom floor, plates clattered as tables were over turned. Cullen helped the King up and shielded him, for a moment he felt like he was back in the tower. The screaming, the screaming was all to familiar.

“Protect the King!” Ava shouted as she stepped in front of King Alistair, the Chevaliers stormed in only protecting the Orlesian nobles. Typical, Ava thought.

Ava had no weapon neither did Cullen, she quickly looked around noticing the swords mounted on the wall which was probably meant for décor purposes but not at this moment. Ava jumped up grabbing the hilt of the sword, Cullen took note and did the same thing. She got into her stance putting the sword in the perfect setting for a quick lunge. A few of the assassins stepped forward just a little to close for Ava’s comfort, she swung in a arch and took off the hand of one who was to slow. He stumbled back clutching at the stump which now spurted blood, once he hit the floor battles broke out across the ballroom. As Cullen was fending off two attackers he once again couldn’t help but notice how elegant Ava looked as she spun and her dress followed like a plume of smoke, his mind shot to Amell. Where was she? He finished off the two and had enough time to frantically search the large room, he spotted her by Dorian and Bull who thankfully were protecting her. Unbeknownst to Cullen an attacker was trying to sneak up on him, King Alistair noticed looking over to a table with a tray filled with cheeses. With a heavy groan he grabbed the tray and slammed it into the back of the attacker’s head causing him to crumple to the floor, Cullen looked at Alistair and gave a nod of thanks. Ava’s attention turned to the man in the serpent mask who was now exiting out to the balcony, she sprinted past Cullen he went to chase after her only to realize someone must stay with the King. Ava stopped sword still in hand as she looked at the mystery man who’s back was turned to her, she crept forward stopping when the man spoke.

“I’m sure you are wondering who I am.” He spoke with a thick accent, Ava couldn’t place where it was from. “I hope you haven’t forgotten who I am.” He told her as he turned around pulling off the mask, he was an older man with a greying beard neatly trimmed.

“Magister Leonard.” She sighed lowering the sword slightly “Why are you doing this?”

“Ferelden betrayed me, and more then one person wants to see that wretched Kingdom fall.” He stated

“You won’t be able too, not while King Alistair sits on the throne.” She told him raising her sword.

“Foolish girl, Just like your sister. So Naive.” He chuckled

“I’m going to cut your throat.” Ava growled

“She said the same exact thing.” Magister Leonard sighed before chucking a dagger, Ava stepped aside only to watch where it landed.

Cullen felt the thud in his shoulder, he didn’t feel anything at first. He couldn’t tell if it was from the shock of there was now a dagger sticking out of him or the fact that Ava knew this man who caused chaos or that she had a sister, he almost felt like he didn’t know her at all. That’s when the burning sensation started to spread through his body he then realized her felt like he couldn’t breathe, his vision started to blur and the last thing he saw was Ava dropping her sword and rushing towards him.

“What did you do?!” Ava screamed as she placed her hand around the wound.

“Let’s just say my dear, you better act quickly or he will die a very painful death, Goodbye for now.” Magister Leonard waved before shortly disappearing over the balcony’s railing.

The clock was ticking.

1 note · View note

attack0npotato · 5 years ago

Text

Chapter 10: Dream State

Training the new recruits was Ava’s least favorite thing, some of them barely knew how to hold a sword. As Ava stood there pretending to watch them spar against each other she noticed Cullen and Amell walking along the battlements, arms hooked, laughing with one another, sun shining down on them. It made her angry, what made her angrier was looking down and noticing a recruit standing there not even practicing.

“You! What are you doing?” She shouted causing the group to slow to a stop.

“Me?” He asked pointing to himself.

“Who the fuck else? Yes, you.” She said in an agitated tone as she made her way towards him.

“I don’t feel like it, plus I am a better solider then all of these men.” He cockily claimed

“What’s your name?” She asked

“Evan-.” He replied to be cut short as she slammed her fist into his face causing him to fall.

“Shut the fuck up, no one gives a shit about who you are in war. No on cares if you’re ‘the best swords man’ to ever live.” She scolded him as she looked down on him

“And no one gives a shit about you either.” He spat blood on the ground as he went to get up.

She snapped, she kicked him in the side hard enough to make him roll across the ground. Ava strode towards him as he tried to get up, she grabbed him by his leather armor and slammed her fist into the side of his again. She didn’t stop, she lost count of how many times she smashed his face in with her fist while the other recruits stood there watching in shock. She eventually let him go, dropping him to the ground as he spat out a few teeth.

“If you were so good as you say, that wouldn’t have happened.” She hissed as she turned to face the other troops. “Anyone else want to spout bullshit, or shall we get back to training?” No response. “Get back to work!” She hollered as she looked over her shoulder to the man on the floor. “You can pack your things and go.” She was flippant, she didn’t wait for a response as she walked through the soldiers that were training furiously. She began to pull off her glove to check on her bruised knuckles, taking a cloth resting in cool water and placing it on her tender hand.

Cullen came marching down the stairs after witnessing Ava beat a soldier to a bloody pulp, Amell had trouble trying to keep up as she followed Cullen. He was enraged, she might be Captain but it doesn’t give her the right to beat on his soldiers. He hadn’t talk to her since their argument, Amell pestered him to know why they haven’t talked in months but it was all about to change. He stopped only a foot away from her.

“What in the hell do you think you’re doing?” Cullen raised his voice as his sentence went on

“Weeding out the ones who won’t make it.” She implied

“That is not how you handle it.” He yelled

“Are you done?” She asked as she slipped her glove back on

“I don’t know what your problem is, but you don’t get to act like an asshole.” He told her

“My problem is you!” Ava shouted to be interrupted by a solider

“We’re under attack! Lower the gates!” He screamed as an arrow exploded through his face sending him over the edge of the wall.

Screaming. That’s all Cullen could hear as people ran from the arrows flying over the wall, he breathed harder as his mind raced back to the tower. He felt like it was happening again, how he couldn’t do anything then. He’ll do something now. He saw Ava shouting for people to get to cover, directing them into Sky hold’s court yard; he saw the gate had only been closed half way and raced for it. If he could just make it the people of Sky Hold would be fine, too bad that isn’t what happened. As he ran towards it an arrow caught him in his already freshly injured shoulder, He stumbled to the ground to see Ava go past him and cover him with her shield from the on coming arrows, he thought of the tower again. How they were so young, how they felt invincible, how they talked about how they thought they were going to be. Yet, here she is saving him.

“Go!” She shouted at him as she began backing up

Cullen scrambled to his feet and backed up with her until they reached suitable cover, he grabbed the end of the arrow snapping it off so he wouldn’t knock it against things. He went to thank Ava to see her already fighting the attackers with other Soldiers as they made their way inside Sky Hold’s walls. Cullen unsheathed his sword to join the fight, he ran over to cover Ava’s back side. Stepping in just in time as a sword came swinging down Cullen blocked it shoving it out of the way, he rammed his sword through his attacker. Cullen and Ava would swap places for moments countering attacks and protecting each other, as he leaned down to get under an attacker swing Ava rolled over him swinging her sword in an arch striking a man across his chest only to retract and strike another. That’s when it hit him, Amell.

“Ava, I don’t know where Amell is!” Cullen shouted at her

“Where did you see her last?” She shouted as she fought against two men.

“She was right behind me-” He responded as he shoved his sword through a man’s chest. “When I was coming down the stairs to speak with you.

Ava gritted her teeth before letting out a frustrated growl as she slashed one man’s throat and hacked into another. “I’ll find her, just push them back!” She replied rushing off.

Ava scanned the area as quickly as she could, heading towards the doors of Skyhold closer to the tavern, she looked around to see bodies of women, some children, men. It reminded her of the tower, how innocence was slaughtered. The tower still haunted her, yet she put her anger and sorrow on the farthest place on the shelf.

“Get away from me!” Amell shouted as a hooded man snatched her around her waist and began dragging her away.

Ava thought for a moment that this was a perfect chance to get rid of Amell, she brought her out of the fade and she treats her like shit. Why should she save her again? Ava was enraged at herself for thinking such a thing, she dashed for letting out a battle cry as she slammed into the two of them knocking them all down. Amell scrambled to her feet standing there, not knowing what to do.

“Get out of here! Help protect the children!” Ava commanded her to which Amell sprinted off.

Ava got to her feet to face her attacker who ran off giving her a moment to catch her breath, only to face a bigger problem. A giant of a man approached her with hammer the size of a horse’s head, he began a trot as he came towards. He raised the hammer and gave a swing at her to which she rolled out of the way, hearing a whoosh go past her head. She landed in a crouched position, she knew if that hammer made contact with her head she would die instantly. She sprung forward staying low as he went to swing again, she slashed at the back of his leg causing him to scream and slam his hammer wildly against the ground. Ava stumbled back as it narrowly missed her, He raised the hammer above his head to slam it on her. She rolled but noticed the dent in the ground he had created, he swung again and she rolled only to turn and grab the hammer as he raised it. Ava brought her armored knee to his face feeling the crunch of his nose, he grabbed her with his other hand and tossed her off. She had smacked her head on a merchant’s cart when she rolled across the ground, she felt dazed. She knew she was now closer to Cullen’s battle, she stumbled to her feet holding on to her head. Cullen turned to see Ava standing there looking like she was dazed holding her head, that’s when the hammer made contact to her chest. It sent her flying into the castle wall, she couldn’t even gasp for air she had none left. The man with the hammer tossed it aside as he grabbed her by her throat, he pressed her against the wall lifting her off of the ground. Ava kicked her feet holding on to the man’s arm with searching for her knife with the other, her vision was going dark and sounds began to fade.

Cullen saw Ava and it felt like the tower, her against that pillar with the ogre crushing her. It filled Cullen with rage, he couldn’t stand thinking of those dark days. Though there were darker days to come he could at least do something about it now, He made his way to her. Cutting down any fool who tried to get in his way, he raised his sword above his head he charged forward bringing it down on the man’s arm, Ava dropped to the ground as the man stumbled back holding onto the bleeding nub. Cullen sent his sword into the top of the man’s skull, kicking him down as he pulled his sword free. Ava was on the ground fighting for breath, she slowly regained her vision looking up at Cullen as he tried to speak to her. Cullen felt relieved, he felt like he ended his dark day only to bring himself into a brighter night.

“Are you alright?” He asked her as he helped her to her feet.

She only nodded in response.

“Get to the others a protect them, I know you’re going to say no but just go.” He told her as he went to return to the battle.

Ava stood there thinking of what she should do, a scream of a child rose in the air catching her attention. The blonde boy with curly hair stood there screaming holding his dead mother’s hand since an arrow had struck her deep in the back, Ava ran over to the boy hearing screams of more arrows coming. She could hear them whistling in the air as she pushed herself towards the boy, he was probably only three or four. She slid on her knees and grabbed the boy, holding him tightly in her arms as she covered him with her body curling into a tight ball over him. She could hear the arrows thudding around them, and a horn blow in the air.

It all stopped, they retreated and just left. Someone closed the gates so those that couldn’t get away were either captured or killed, Ava slowly got up with the boy in her arms still crying she held him close to her as she tried to calm him down. People slowly came out from places she wouldn’t even think of, some rejoined together in a loving embrace, others sobbed for the lost loved ones laying on the ground. Through the now crowds of people Ava saw Cullen, a fresh cut on his face covered in blood splatter. He saw her too, holding a small crying boy, her ear bleeding, throat bruised and chest plate slightly caved in. The boy’s older sister collected him with tears of joy that he was alive, thanking Ava repeatedly who gave a nod as she made her way towards Cullen. All of this felt like a dream that they were awake in, someone had attacked Skyhold and for what reason? They made it to each other, embracing one another.

“Are you alright?” Cullen asked Ava holding her by the shoulders as he pushed her back to get a good look at her.

“I’m fine, this all feels like a dream. How did we even survive?” She croaked not looking at him, her eye was red from busted blood vessels from being choked. It made her eyes look more intimidating then they already did. “I wish we could go back, to the days when we were young, running around the tower before the attack happened before all of this.” She admitted to him holding back tears.

He could tell she was finishing the conversation they had started before the attack, he could tell she was hurt. Things were much simpler back then, he sometimes wished the same thing.

“How do we feel it? How we feel that again?” She asked him now looking him in the eye

“We move on from this, you’ll always be my greatest friend no matter what.” He sighed as he hugged her once more. “The tower will always haunt us, but we are wide awake now.” Cullen looked up to see Amell looking for him, he felt the urge to run and scoop her up in his arms. He pushed Ava back to look at her once more. “Thank you for saving her.” He thanked Ava who gave a small smile in response.

Cullen raced towards Amell who began to cry upon seeing him, he did what he felt and scooped Amell in his arms kissing her as he did so. Amell tried to speak between her sobs as Cullen tried his best to calm her. He just brought her closer to him holding on to her he looked back to see Ava who disappeared, he felt a pit in his stomach as he looked around seeing the destruction. They must rebuild.

From what they found out it was that damn Magister from the ball, Magister Leonard. Cullen couldn’t bring himself to ask Ava how she knew him but her knew he’d have to eventually. Apparently, the Magister wanted to send a message to Ferelden as well as Skyhold that he is capable of mass destruction, which he made very clear. Not only did he attack Skyhold he attacked the Ferelden tower, as well as other holds around Ferelden and a few in Orlais. Cullen waited at the war table with Josephine and Leliana, the two women whispered to each other and exchanged some papers but grew quiet as Ava entered.

“I am terribly sorry I am late; shall we discuss business?” Ava said as she adjusted her braid looking at the three of them.

“Well.” Josephine cleared her throat stepping forward with a letter in hand. “This arrived and it’s addressed to you.”

Ava took the letter, running gloved fingers over the seal before breaking it. Her eyes darted over the letters as her face grew red in anger, she let out a heavy sigh through her nose.

“What does it say?” Cullen spoke up stepping forward.

Ava took a deep breath in before speaking. “Dear Ava, you’ve grown since the last I have saw you. I remember when you were thirteen with spitfire in you and determination to become a templar. I also remember your poor sister, beautiful girl. It’s a shame she had to die for your mistakes, she was meant to marry me I am sure you can recall. Yet, you took her outside the walls when I was meant to take her to Tevinter where she could live freely as a mage. You had gotten her slayed by those templars.” Ava paused as her voice grew quieter before it cracked, she cleared her throat as she swallowed her emotions. “That is not why I write to you, I write to you to tell you I will crush all of Thedas for what they have done to Tevinter returning it to its former glory.”

There was a long silence as everyone was taking in what she just read, and what it even meant. It made no sense for him to tell them his plans. Ava tossed the letter onto the war table, balling her hands into fists and resting her knuckles on top of the table. He could tell she was, well to put it plainly, pissed off.

“Why would he tell us his plan?” Leliana asked looking at Ava from under the brim of her hood.

“To scare us, we have seen and heard what he could do.” Ava told her looking at her directly with her eyebrow furrowed together, a serious expression Cullen has seen before.

“Yet, he made such a personal attack against you. Most likely to cause you to do something irrational.” Josephine added

“Send a letter to King Alistair, I will write one to the Arishok of Par Vollen.” Ava told Josephine as she started to exit the war room.

“Wait, to the king? And say what?” Josephine called out her as Leliana looked between them with a mixture of confusion and shock.

“Tell him we need to meet, and I will see him in a week at Denerim.” She called out as she exited the war room.

Cullen looked at the two women who were now staring at him, they both looked at each other and huddled close whispering as they left the war room as well. Cullen walked towards the war table, grabbing the letter and reading it over. She got her sister killed? Her sister was a mage? He gave a sigh as he exited the war room himself to go after Ava and at least try and get some answers, the air outside was crisp and cool. He took a deep breath in as he headed to Ava’s office, winter was starting to fade and summer was settling in. Luckily it wasn’t too hot yet, as he walked by a few merchants he decided to stop and see if they had Ava’s favorite; Chocolate. He gave them a few shillings, thanked them, and went on his way. He remembered how Greagoir would get mad at Ava for getting chocolate stains on her uniforms pants, or the fact she would eat enough for ten templars and there was never any left for the others or desserts for occasions. As he approached her office he noticed the door was left ajar and the sounds of someone digging around could be heard, for a moment he thought it could be a spy but knowing her it wasn’t a spy. He reached a hand up and gave the door some light taps with his knuckles it caused the door to open more allowing him to peak in, the room was a mess with Ava standing in front of her desk leaning against it with the back of her gloveless hand to her face with her eyes squeezed shut.

“Are you alright?” Cullen asked her letting himself in.

She nodded.

“Are you sure?” He walked closer setting the small thing of wrapped chocolate on her desk, he stood in front of her only a couple of feet a way which made his mind think of that dream he had months ago. Before his face could grow red he shook the thought from his mind.

“I’ll be fine.” She let out a shaky sigh, as she removed her hand from her face and placed it on her desk using it as support. “I just can’t find my stupid fucking signet.”

“I’m sure it’s in here.” He told her before pausing to collect his thoughts, he felt stupid for what he was about to say yet he was going to do it anyways. “You had a sister?”

Ava let out a chuckle that seemed almost more like a scoff to him, she shook her head before wiping her nose with the back of her hand. She had been crying, most likely because of the letter and her not being able to find her signet was the breaking point.

“Yes, I had a sister.” She spoke without emotion as she looked up at him, he was too close not to.

“You never spoke of her.” Another dumb reply Cullen thought.

“I wasn’t supposed too.” Ava mumbled quickly glancing at the floor.

“What happened?” He questioned, he didn’t want to ask but it would drive him crazy if he didn’t.

“Honestly, Cullen. You are the last person I would want to talk to about it.” She disclosed still looking at him with that blank look.

Those words stung, he thought they were close but clearly, they were growing apart. Looking at her face, those eyes empty; he knew she had swallowed her emotions and that was the end of that. He gave a nodded and exited her office. He felt like he was just aimlessly wandering to his office, he felt empty. Ava, who considered his best friend didn’t want to talk to him. It felt foreign to him, they had shared plenty of things with each other that he probably wouldn’t tell anyone else. He hadn’t even realized that he made it to his office, his brain was almost stuck trying to process what happened. Cullen looked up to see Amell in his office who had brought him tea and placed it on his desk. Amell looked up at him and her expression softened, she set her cup down and went up to him cradling his face in her hands.

“Cullen, what’s wrong?” Amell asked voice full of concern.

“I think I’ve lost my best friend.” Cullen exhaled, his chest feeling emptier as he said it.

“What do you mean?” She asked again with confusion written all over her face.

“I think Ava and I are growing apart, I tried to talk to her about a letter she received but she didn’t want to talk to me about it.” Cullen explained “I could be over reacting, but we’ve being having issues for months. It’s the most she said to me since the attack against Skyhold.”

“I’ll speak to her.” Amell told him with a reassuring kiss.

“No, just leave it.” Cullen sighed pulling her hands away from his face as he walked to desk.

Amell ignored him and head straight for the door, she was going to talk to Ava whether he liked it or not.

“Amell!” Cullen called out to her to stop her, but didn’t chase after her.

Amell was walking along the battlements when she noticed Ava was heading towards her, Amell marched up to Ava who was now stopped.

“What is your problem?” Amell asked her being inches away from her face.

“My problem?” Ava raised an eyebrow

“You don’t need to be such a bitch to him.” Amell told her

“I’m not a bitch, and I would assume that you would have no problem with me being out of the picture.” She replied her hands at her sides that were now balled into fists.

“You’re not wrong!” She admitted

“What is your fucking problem with me?” Ava rose her voice

“My problem is how you betrayed me at the tower! You said you would get my phylactery to help Cullen and I escape, but you didn’t! I got turned into a fucking tranquil.” Amell screamed at her

“I did get your phylactery, but the fucking tower fell and I lost it during battle. I am sorry if the tower collapsing was an inconvenience you but the world doesn’t revolve around you!” She screamed in her face, her blood was boiling and her face bright red.

“Like I should’ve relied on you anyways, you couldn’t even protect the tower from falling.” Amell scoffed

Ava took a step back and yanked her fist back then sent it right into Amell’s face, her nose crunching underneath Ava’s bare knuckles. Amell fell to the ground clutching her face, looking up at Ava who was now standing over her pointing a bloody finger in her face.

“You have no right to say that! I could’ve went to the towers prison for you, and I nearly died protecting you and all the mages with in that tower, I have the scars to fucking prove it!” She screamed at her, Ava’s accent was thick and there was no hiding it. “I did everything I could to save that bloody tower, I should’ve died in that tower! You do not get to say I couldn’t protect them, and do not forget that your beloved Commander couldn’t save them either.” She called him Commander with a venomous anger dripping in her voice. “Mind you aren’t a fucking mage anymore since I pulled you out of the fucking fade, and you didn’t die in that fucking tower thanks to me. You are the most fortunate one, while the rest of us get to fucking suffer!”

Ava looked up from Amell to see Cullen standing there watching the two, he heard every word. Ava’s expression was beyond anger, she stood up straight locking eyes with him. No guilt for what she has just done or said.

“Thank you for the chocolate.” She said with sarcasm hiding the rage, she turned on her heel and stormed off.

Cullen went to Amell, helping her up from the ground and brushing her hands away to look at her nose. It was broken, she would have to go to the healer to get it fixed. He noticed she was avoiding looking at him, or speaking.

“What was she talking about?” Cullen asked her still holding her by her face.

“Its just stuff from the tower.” She told him sounding nasally

“Tower stuff? It sounded more like criminal acts.” He said as his eyebrows furrowed together. “You should’ve never said that, you know how it is to live with that guilty and memories, you’ve seen it firsthand.”

“It doesn’t give her a right to act like an ass.” She scoffed

“Let’s just take you to the healer and get your nose fixed.” Cullen gave a heavy sigh as he slid his arm around her shoulders walking her to the stairs.

Ava slammed the door to her office hard enough to not even shut it, the top hinge broke causing the door to tilt and drop down. She struggled with the straps of her gauntlets as she tried to take it off, she noticed her knuckle was bleeding since she stupidly punched Amell in the face without a glove but it felt good to hit her. Amell was a bitch to her at the tower and a bitch to her now, yet she stole her phylactery to help Cullen and her escape; to live a life of normalcy. She eventually pulled her gauntlets off and tossed them across the room, she didn’t want to be in armor anymore it just felt heavy. She pulled at the straps on her sides then grabbed the armor by its shoulders and pushed it up over her head letting it clatter to the ground, her shirt was a tattered grey with a rip in the front. She decided to leave her slightly armored pants on, she was impressed on what they did in the forge. They had stitched metal plates into the pants and covered the stitching with fabric, the metal was strong yet quiet flexible; almost like dragon scales. Ava laid back in her bed, and did what she’s been doing instead of coping with her emotions. Sleeping.

The King of Ferelden’s schedule was a lot busier than they had expected, they probably wouldn’t see him for another two months and three months have already passed. In-between that time, Cullen and Ava had completely stopped talking which was weird for the both of them as well as for everyone else since they were Commander and Captain of Sky Hold’s forces. The two communicated through letters or through their two apprentices Jim and Hailey, Hailey and Ava had formed a friendship to the point where they would drink in the tavern and harass the bard. Cullen kept Jim at a distance though everyone even Ava who doesn’t even look at Cullen could tell Jim was seeking his approval. Ava sat in her office filling out papers when she heard a light knock on her door causing her to look up, there was a beautiful man with an even more beautiful mustache.

“Dorian! What on earth are you doing here?” She exclaimed with excitement written all over her face.

“Oh, you know. Scouting out your troops, you’ve picked up some quiet attractive ones this time.” He chuckled as he stepped into her office, he was wearing something that she guesses could pass for a shirt. It was made up of straps leaving most of his upper body exposed, he wore pants that were made of some sort of mesh and leather. Interesting colors, she noted.

“You know you came to see me too, you said you’d be back the next summer.” She laughed as she stood up to give him a hug.

“Goodness, what on earth are you wearing and when was the last time you went to a spa of some sort? Your hair needs a cut!” He stepped back examining her

He was right, she would sit on her hair now. She also need some freshening up; a hot bath would be nice. She had been bathing in cold water and ran out of her orange scented soap so she’d use what the troops had, Dorian couldn’t resist on a project.

“That’s it, get dressed and out of those sorry excuse of clothes.” Dorian told her heading out the door.

“What? Dorian, I can’t just leave!” She shouted after him

“Too late, I already talked to your dear friend Hailey. Come see by the gate, in the mean time I’ll go harass the Commander.” Dorian chuckled as he left.

Ava grumbled as she fixed her shirt, it was just a tan shirt with a draw string in the front which she had tied closed all the way since it felt like it was showing too much untied. She had on black pants which fitted tightly, other than that her she wore boots for shoes. She could already tell Dorian hated her outfit choice.

“You’re wearing that?” He asked with a raised eyebrow

“What’s wrong with this?” She looked down at herself stopping in front of him.

“Well, for starters.” He sighed yanking at the string on her shirt undoing what she had done.

“Dorian! Stop it, I have a reputation.” She grabbed the front of her shirt to fix it

“A reputation for not letting those puppies out.” He chuckled “Now follow me, I have a gift.”

“A gift?” She raised an eyebrow as she followed.

“Yes, a gift. I wouldn’t forget your birthday.” He told her as they headed down a trail.

“Birthday, birthdays are a waste of time.” She sighed

“Not true, and you’ll like this.” He assured her waving a hand in the air.

“I have a small feeling I won’t.” She laughed

“Oh, hush now, we will have tea and discuss a few things. Then you’ll be fitted and have your hair trimmed.” Dorian explained to her.

“Fitted? Did you come with your entire wardrobe team?” She asked him

“Yes, I did, you need a makeover. Everyone deserves one every so often.” He said nonchalant.

“Dorian that sounds expensive, and I think I’m fine; but I know there is no arguing with you.” She grumbled

“Good.” He grinned as they arrived to a small little caravan with a table and two chairs set up with two cups of tea. “Now take a seat, we have some gossip to discuss.” He rubbed his hands together as a form of excitement, sitting down on the chair.

“Oh, there is plenty of gossip.” She scoffed as she sat, taking the cup into her hand. “How’s Bull?”

“Oh, he’s fine! Killing things here, doing me there.” Dorian told her as he took a sip of tea.

“Sounds fun, better then the Skyhold bullshit.” She rolled her eyes shaking her head.

“I heard about that, the attack was a tragedy. I can’t believe such a thing even happened to Skyhold, and I am glad you’re ok. I also heard the defenses have been doubled, but how does that work since you and the Commander don’t talk?” He quarried tapping a ring against his cup.

“We have two apprentices and they speak with each other, we basically communicate to each other through them.” She admitted looking out around the forest. “Things between us aren’t the same, the difference is we aren’t in a tower anymore. Amell couldn’t speak up about me since she was a mage and a mage having relations with a templar, now she’s not a mage and not with a templar.”

“You can’t not be friends with him because of her, I know you love the man but she shouldn’t be the reason you two aren’t friends.” He told her as he sipped his tea before setting it down. “You can’t be hung up on him forever, you have to get laid at some point.”

“Dorian!” She shouted

“What? I’m only speaking the truth.” He shrugged “Come now, lets get your hair trimmed and you fitted for a dress.” Dorian demanded leaving for room for a no.

After what felt like an hour of her hair getting messed with and her arguing with the hair dresser, he only cut it back to her lower back and put it in a nice braid. She thought about dropping to the ground as the lady took her measurements and told Dorian she was too muscular for the dresses she brought, that they would look awkward on her. Dorian told her that he was paying her and to make it work.

“Dorian, can we just go? This is the fifth dress I’ve tried on, I think I am a lost cause.” Ava groaned

“Just one more and I swear it’ll be the one.” He promised her “I also need to know your measurements for my wedding.”

“What?” She shouted spinning around with a big smile on her face. “Why didn’t you tell me?!”

“I figured I would need to save that bit of information for when you start to get difficult.” He chuckled as he flashed the ring at her, it looked like some sort of glazed bone. “It’s dragons tooth, you know how that man is about dragons.”

“I do.” She laughed “Congratulations, I can’t wait to be there.”

‘You’ll have to be, you’re going to be helping me get ready.” He said as he stood up to stretch. “Now, hurry up and try that dress on.”

The dress was beautiful, a dark red velvet. The straps hung off her shoulders and hugged her torso before flowing down from her hips looking like all one piece. Dorian held the ides of his face looking at her in awe, he made her do a spin as he squealed with glee.

“You look breath taking, I might have to rearrange my wedding colors just so you can wear this dress.” He admitted

“Oh, don’t do that. I’m I can find a dress similar to the this one for the colors you’ve picked.” She said as she brushed her braid forward.

“You have to wear this through Skyhold.” He urged her “Don’t even argue, we are going too.”

“I won’t, I’ll just accept it.” She giggled as he helped her into her shoes.

“We are going to have to do something about those shoes.” He sighed shaking his head.

“I agree.” She nodded as they made their way back to Skyhold.

Once they made it into the walls of Skyhold, Dorian stopped her grabbing both of her hands, which caused a pit to grow in her stomach. He took a deep breath in and let out a heavy sigh, looking her in the eyes which were now trained on him.

“Now, you might he me.” He sighed

“Dorian, what did you do now?” She asked him with concern growing.

“I may or may not have struck a deal with the Commander to convince you to talk to him.” He gestured towards Cullen who was standing up on the battlements. “And before you decline, he wrote to me asking me to come all the way out here to come talk to you.”

“Dorian, I don’t want to talk to him.” She sighed looking away. “I need him, I need to move on from everything.”

“My dear, this isn’t the way to do it. You have to realize you’ll protect him no matter what, you put his happiness before yours. Your day will come when you can’t make him happy or protect him, though I am sure you have only just begun. You can’t let it end like this. Just talk to him, I didn’t get you dolled up for nothing because if you aren’t going to speak with him anymore you’re going to look so damn good that he’ll regret letting you slip between his fingers.” Dorian said as his grip tightened, he gave a small smile before giving her a peck on the cheek. “Just give him a chance, and give yourself a chance.”

With that, Dorian left her standing there. She stood there for a moment, she could just turn and go straight to her office. She chewed at her lip and she groaned, making her way towards the stairs. The pit in her stomach felt now like a crater, she stopped at the top of the stairs before approaching him. He didn’t turn to look at her as he leaned over the wall looking out at the view, Ava decided to do the same looking at him from the corner of her eye. They stood there for a moment, he went to open his mouth to speak only to be cut off by her.

“My sister was a mage.” She finally told him still looking off into the distance. “My parents didn’t want to send her to the tower so they hired someone from Tevinter to teach her how to use and control her powers, she was amazing. One of the best mages I have ever seen, they struck a deal with Magister Leonard that once she was old enough she would marry him and go live in Tevinter where it was safer for her.” Ava gave a heavy sigh dropping her head low before taking a deep breath in and continuing, Cullen now looked at her as she spoke, studying her. “I was young and wanted to go outside, my mother and father were gone so I pestered my sister to go until she finally caved in and said yes. We were outside and I begged her to play hide and seek, what we didn’t know was that there was templars here first; the Templars chased after us when we tried to run. They captured us and one held me as the other tried to collect my sister, I screamed and kicked trying to stop them as the other cut her down while she conjured a spell. She never taught her about templars so she never even had the chance of coming out alive. The templars brought me home and told my parents what had happened.” A hot tear rolled from her eyes as she squeezed them shut. “My father beat me and my mother didn’t speak to me, I remember blood and tears. I decided to ship myself off to the chantry when I heard that Magister Leonard would take me instead. I became a Templar to protect mages like my sister and to never be like the templars I saw that day. I got my sister killed because of my own selfish reasons.

“You couldn’t have known it would end that way.” Cullen said as he placed a hand over hers. He felt terrible for her, and he didn’t know that’s why she became a templar, the real reason that is. Yet, he noticed how beautiful she looked and how he just wanted to hold her to tell her that it wasn’t her fault.

“I should’ve know better; my sister was my best friend. That day I lost everything, and I’m sorry I’ve been unfair to you.” She sighed, she wanted to tell him she gained him even through all those events but figured it would be best to save that for another time.

“I’m sorry as well, you’re my closest, dearest friend and I should’ve told you that sooner. I’m sure your sister would’ve been proud of the woman you have become today and proud of the differences you have made in many people’s lives.” He sympathized

“Thank you.” She gave a small smile as she wiped her eyes

“Well, as a good sign of friendship I have some good news to tell you.” He smiled taking her hand. “I was wondering if you would be willing to attended my wedding.”

“Your wedding?” She huffed with a look of confusion written up on her face.

“I’m going to propose to Amell, and I’m hoping if she says yes you will attend the wedding, maybe even help me find a decent suit or convince Dorian to help me.” He explained to her. “I only mean well with this sort of invitation.”

Ava’s heart sunk, she felt that rush of emotion. She didn’t want to believe him, he doesn’t care a bit she felt. She grew angry, she was going to tell him.

“Of course, I’ll help you, I’m happy for you.” She smiled as he words betrayed her. “Good luck too.”

“Thank you.” He hugged her even though he still felt some sort of distance between them. “I’m glad we are speaking again.” He told her as he stepped away.

“So am I, well you can tell me all about the proposal later I have to escape this dress.” She chuckled

“I understand, I will talk with you soon.” He nodded.

Ava turned as she quickly went back down the stairs, she felt a pain in her chest as she slowly realized it was too late for him and her. That it was stupid to continue dwelling on him, dwelling on a man that will never love her or even see her in that way. She must move on, she mustn’t protect him anymore. He was a grown man, not some boy from the tower. As the pain in the chest grew she made it to her office shutting the door behind her to sob. She had that sinking feeling again, she rubbed her eyes as she noticed a yellow envelope on her desk. She opened it to read that it was from the King, and he requested her presence immediately.

4 notes · View notes

attack0npotato · 5 years ago

Text

Chapter 11: Fool

I was going to proof read but I didn’t feel like it, just lmk if there is any typos.

Dusty old Denerim, the paths they followed were covered though they were supposedly roads. As they walked through the market, the merchants stared while some tried to convince them to purchase things for outrageous prices. They eventually made it to cobblestone, then to the Royal palace doors. The Inquisitor gave a hefty knock on the door which opened willingly, it opened to a surprisingly well-lit hallway with stained glassed windows fluttering in light. The rugs that laid across the stone floor contained intricate details along the edges, Servants rushed to them to grab their things to take it to their rooms. Ava adjusted the sword on her hip as she scanned the room, she had heard there was an ambush here when the blight was going on. A spry man came forth clearing his throat while tucking his hands behind him, he wore a dusty red tunic with golden trim.

“The King has a table prepped for your meeting, he would like for it to start right away.” He told the Inquisitor.

“My advisors and I are ready now if you take us to the room, we can’t delay this any longer.” The Inquisitor said giving a sigh looking around at the lot of them.

The man nodded leading them to an open room with tapestries hanging from the ceiling, a prominent dark wooden table with chairs lining the sides and end. At the very end was King Alistair, wearing a crown of gold which he was fidgeting until they all walked in. He wore leathers with fur lining the inside that seemed right for the weather in Denerim, the cold weather seemed to linger here. The Inquisitor and the others bowed as the King stood, except for Ava.

“Please such formality isn’t needed, last time we met I was a bit harsh.” Alistair chuckled nervously. “Uh, please take seat.” He gestured

The Inquisitor sat at the end of the table, Leliana and Josephine sat to the left of the Inquisitor while Ava and Cullen sat to the right. Cullen seemed tense, he couldn’t tell if it was because this is as close he has been to Ava in a while or the fact he was sitting in the same room as the King who he hopes doesn’t recognize him.

“Do I know you from somewhere? You seem familiar.” Alistair asked lingering on the word familiar as he looked at Cullen.

“I believe that we-” Cullen cleared his throat “We might have met in the Chantry.”

“That’s right! We called you noodle hair, glad to see you’ve gotten your hair under control.” Alistair chuckled

“Yes, indeed.’ Cullen replied giving a small smile.

“Shall we get to business than?” Josephine suggested

“Ah, yes. Magister Leonard.” King Alistair sighed “What do we know about him?”

“Well, he is a powerful influence in Tevinter yet Tevinter sent a letter saying they have no desire to take over our barbaric land and that he is on his own agenda.” Josephine explained.

“Doesn’t matter what region he is claiming himself under, he has to be stopped regardless.” Ava spoke “This man is no threat to be taken lightly, with just a small attack our defense fell like a deck of cards and we are one of the most powerful allies in Ferelden.”

Alistair’s attention was drawn to her as she spoke truthful words, she reminded him of his wife. Beautiful, yet strong in more ways than one. “My wife told me about you, when she heard you were coming she was displeased she couldn’t make it. She spoke very highly of you.” The King said as he finally addressed her “Your words will be taken into account for, though I purpose we watch him and hold off on doing anything at this moment.”

Ava shook her head. “No, we can’t wait. Not with a man like this, none of you know him the way I do.” She looked down the table looking at each of their faces. “I purpose that I go to the Freemarches, my parents’ home lives close to the edge of the Imperium. I can see if I can find out any information on how many troops he has or anything for that matter.”

“I don’t think you should go alone, if you wait I can rally troops and we can travel there to-” King Alistair started

“No, I will go. We can’t wait, we don’t have time for him to launch an attack on anymore of our holds.” Ava raised her voice more in a demanding tone.

“Now, I respect your opinion.” King Alistair adjusted himself in his seat now sitting up straighter and using a free hand to make gestures. “But I don’t agree with this at all, we can’t act not knowing his full well of his attentions.”

“That’s ridiculous! We know his intentions full well, He isn’t offering peace clearly!” Ava raised her voice gradually as her sentence carried on

“I won’t argue with you on this, I said we will wait and that’s what we will do.” Alistair told her his own voice now rising.

“He will slaughter everyone while they sleep, this man has no care or respect for huma-” Ava was cut off by Alistair and their arguing was now becoming intangible.

Cullen looked at the two of them than at the Inquisitor who was giving Cullen a pleading look to interject, Josephine tried to say something but not much was heard by the two of them. Cullen assumed they must’ve known each other from somewhere because he assumed not anybody would be able to get in such a heated debate with the King. Cullen shook his head with a heavy sigh and abruptly sat up from his chair causing it to scrap loudly against the stone floor. Their attention snapped to him and the bickering quieted, Cullen cleared his throat before looking at the king.

“I will go with her to the Freemarches, I will make sure that everything is done properly and that no risks will be taken. We are merely observing, and our investigation will not be under any title whether it be under the Inquisition or Ferelden. This is our own choice.” Cullen told the both of them

Alistair slid a hand over his mouth, eyebrow knitting together, he considered it. He removed his hand taking a breath to speak. “Fine, that’s what you two shall do. I’ll allow to go ahead of us a week in advanced.”

Cullen could tell Ava wanted to protest by the glare she shot him, before she nodded and got up heading out of the room with a servant trotting after her. Cullen sat back down pinching the bridge of his nose with a heavy sigh.

“Strong women will do that to you.” Alistair chuckled easing back into his chair “I would know, you’re lucky.”

Cullen went to protest, but he was right. He is lucky.

“So, shall we continue?” Alistair asked them with a small tired smile.

Ava was quiet the ride to her parents, they had sailed across the waking sea from the coast lands to try and cut down time only to have to go around Vimmark mountain. Cullen didn’t try and push her to speak, he had a pit in his stomach the whole time they were traveling. He knew Amell was mad, Ava seemed agitated which was becoming normal but looking at her she seemed to have other things on her mind. Her eyes seemed distant and her face seem blank yet filled with so many emotions, she had Leliana send a raven ahead to let her family know she was arriving soon. That they were, they were approaching a metal gate with a fence that ran along a decent sized property with trees inside the fence line but none seemed to rich the house. The house was a pale emerald green with white trimmings, it was obvious that there was a second floor with the columns being present that held up the porches roof. Ava had hopped off her horse and gave a shove to one of the gates doors just enough for them both to make it through, she waved Cullen through him leading her horse to the other side while she shut the gate. She climbed back atop her horse and he hand her the reins, she sighed looking at the house.

“I can’t believe I’m back here.” Ava said plainly “I never thought I’d come back to this shit hole.”

She nudged her horse with her heel and they headed down the road, the house wasn’t far from the gate but still a good distance and even more tiresome one if it was taken on foot. Cullen noticed Ava kept looking at him out of the corner of his eye, twitching her mouth side to side before speaking.

“Thank you. You didn’t have to come out here with me.” She told him now only looking forward.

“Of course, I wouldn’t advised you to go alone anyways.” Cullen admitted “Plus I know where your situation stands with them, I don’t want you to deal with anything alone. Are you nervous?”

“I just want to get this over with honestly.” She sighed

Their conversation ended there, they climbed down from their horses and tied them to a post, Ava had her sword still attached at her hip as a form of comfort. She looked at Cullen and gave a nod as they headed up the porch steps, as they reached the top the large wooden door groaned open. A woman with pale blue eyes with grey hair pinned up with ornate pins had opened the door, her skin was tan like old leather that sat in the sun in her face Cullen could tell that he was now looking at Ava’s mother. She wore a dark blue dress that made of silk with some of layers trimmed in gold, she wore a heavily jeweled broach on the right side of her dress that help hold a thin silk shawl to her shoulders; she was quite thin too her cheek bones protruded oddly from her face.

“Ava.” The woman’s voice was cool, stopping them in their tracks.

“Juliana.” Ava replied

Cullen felt a tension rise between the two of them, it was an odd interaction for a mother and daughter who haven’t seen each other in years react in such a way. When his family came to visit there was tears of joy and full-hearted embraces, this just seemed callous and empty.

“You know his rules, no weapons in the house.” Juliana gestured to Ava’s sword before her attention snapped to Cullen while Ava unbuckled her belt that held her sword to her person resting it against the house. “And who is this?” Juliana’s cold expression shifting to warm smile.

“My name is-” Cullen went to say before Ava jumped in

“Sir Cullen Rutherford, His father is a lord in Ferelden.” Ava said shooting a glance a Cullen who smiled and nodded.

“Oh?” Juliana smiled placing a hand atop her chest “Well, how rude of me. The son of a lord deserves better treatment.” She moved herself back from the door way to allow them in.

Ava headed in first with Cullen following behind, the house was decorated with tapestries and small to very large crystals as well as rocks. The house was oddly cool and smelled of old books, her mother gestured for them to follow as she glided across the polished stone floor. She led them to a room with an open entry way and a large book shelf that lined the wall to the right, in the middle was two couches with a dark wood table separating them, at the other end of that table between the couches was a loan red chair which sat an old grizzled man. The large windows behind him set an eerie glow across the room and around the main in the chair. His beard was neatly trimmed with cold grey eyes brimmed with bushy eyebrows, he had a harsh look to him. His vest was made of dark leather with dull blue long sleeves, dark brown pants, with simplistic black boots; the man’s face was lined heavily with wrinkles that showed signs of a significant amount of frowning and scowls which he was giving them both now.

“Rube, we have guest.” Juliana told him in the same cold tone she had with Ava at the door.

“I can see that.” He responded pressing his lips thin before standing up which he surprisingly did with ease for how old he appeared to be. “The first thing you send us in years is a letter asking for our help.”

“It’s not like you’ve been sending me letters.” She retorted with a scoff

“Don’t not sass me girl.” He told her raising a finger to her, which shockingly she complied.

“Dear, this man here is the son of a Lord.” Juliana chimed in to which Cullen was now being scanned by the man’s analytical eyes.

“Son of a Lord?” He questioned with the slight unimpressed raise of an eyebrow.

“I am.” Cullen spoke louder than he normally would, speaking in a confident tone.

“And what is a son of a Lord doing with a girl like her?” Rube loosely gestured to Ava.

“Well-” Cullen inhaled deeply quickly looking at Ava, her demeanor seemed broken with her eyes fixated on the floor and her head hung low. “We are actually engaged; the wedding is in a few months actually.”

Juliana looked between the both of them, while Rube’s expression returned to the same permanent scowl he seems to have. Cullen stood straight up trying his best to exude the confidence he was currently lacking, Ava was now standing straight up with a small smirk looking at Cullen from the corner of her eye.

“Well, Congratulations are in order than.” Juliana gave a small smile

“Your sister’s wedding would’ve been this month all those years ago.” He father threw in which turned the mood sour again and any hope of thing being some what normal wash away from Ava’s face.

“I know that, do not think I would’ve forgotten.” Ava replied

“No, and neither have we.” He spat anger dripping in his words. “You sold your self to the Templar order just to make us think you’re dead, but in reality, you fled like a coward. You broke your poor mother heart! All you did was leave a note for her to find in the morning, you made her lose two daughters not one.”

Ava’s jaw was clenched with her lips pressed thin, she looked at her mother whose eyes were brimmed with tears. She wanted to scream, to throw something, get out of there but instead she stood there while Cullen watched in silence.

“Rube, that is enough.” Juliana snapped “You two sit on the couch, and you come help me find the good wine to celebrate; be sure to bring the papers she asked ofr.” She sniffled dabbing an eye with the back of her finger.

Her father said nothing as he locked eyes with her mother, he briskly left the room once breaking eye contact and exited through one of the doors. Ava’s mother placed a hand on her shoulder and gave what could’ve been considered a sad smile.

“We’ve only wanted the best for you, I know he’s harsh but, in the end, he is trying his best.” Juliana left before Ava could reply, pulling out a small handkerchief to dab her eyes.

Just like that it was just the two of them.

“I can’t wait to get out here.” She heavily sighed dragging a hand down her face.

“Once we get the papers we can leave immediately if you’d like.” Cullen suggested turning to face her.

“I would like that very much, and thank you again.” She gave a small smile “They have always cared about titles, nice touch with the engagement.”

“I had to improvise, if only it didn’t make things turn so sour.” Cullen gave a light chuckle as he rubbed the back of his neck.

Their attention snapped to the door that her parents had left through, instead of the clinking of glasses it was the clinking of metal. Two men had come through the door, they only wore leather but it was clear they weren’t here to celebrate since one had a large dagger in his hand.

“Listen, we were told about your lil get together and let me just say Magister Leonard is not pleased.” The man with the knife said as he approached them, Cullen stepped in front of Ava. “So, I’m gonna kill blondie here and take you to speak with him directly.”

Ava wasn’t quick enough to hit the man that had come up behind her and grabbed her by her hair yanking her head back causing her to shriek, Cullen glanced behind him only to step back as the man’s accomplice missed his punch. Cullen returned with a powerful blow to the left side of his face sending him stumbling between the couch and the table, the man with the knife tried to slash at Cullen only missing him by a hair which he countered with a jab to the ribs. He had armor, but what good is armor when a small blade can weave between it. The man slammed Ava’s face into the heavy wooden table, she felt a crack in her cheek. The man brought her head back up keeping her on her knees, she could feel her face swelling instantly. She heard the man take a deep inhale of her hair, she took the opportunity to bash his nose with the back of her head which gave a satisfying crunch. As she spun around she reached for her sword, and it was gone. Still on the porch where she left it, the man gave a kick to her chest and even with armor it still knocked the wind out of her. He grabbed her by her hair again and held her still once again. Cullen was distracted by the man with the knife to not notice the man he had punched had now gotten to his feet and slammed his hand into the side of his head yet tackling Cullen at the same time taking them both to the ground. He tried to kick one of the standing man’s leg out from under him, but the man who had hit him was hammering his head with his fist while the other kicked. He could faintly hear Ava struggling with her own attacker, he felt a sick crack come from his chest and began to be unable to see out of an eye. The man heavily breathed as he got off of Cullen wiping his face with the back of his hand, the man with the knife gestured to him and then Cullen who he then made get to his knees and held him by his neck. Cullen felt a rattle come from his chest as he breathed and looked at Ava as the man walked towards her with the knife in hand, she looked pissed off and a bruise had already formed on her cheek with dark purple with a misshapen ring of white. The man crouched in front of her waving the knife in front her.

“Ya know, I heard you twos was a tough duo but I don’t see it.” The man laughed “Shame yer pretty face got a bash.” He tried to touch her face but she jerked away which made him laugh. “You can act that way now but you and I are going to get really close on our trip back. I was gonna make this quick but since you put up a fight I say we have some fun, I was just going to stab him to death but I think watching his eyes bulge would be a lot more fun.” He gave a wave of the knife as he partly turned to watch.

The man holding Cullen quickly yanked on a small cord that he hadn’t even noticed was fastened around his neck, he tried to wiggle his finger underneath but it was far to deep. When he went to stand the man kicked the back of his knee and laughed.

“For how big he is, he sure is easy to kill.” The man laughed yanking the chord tighter.

Cullen tried to cough, scream, just make a sound and nothing came out. His vision was threatening to give out at any moment, he once again focused on Ava who seemed to be shaking. She had a small letter opener in her hand that she snatched off the table, she slammed it into the man’s foot who was holding her and using his shove as a boost to lunge at the man with the knife. He wasn’t quick to react as the knife stupidly fell out of his hand, he wrapped his arms around Ava tightly to try and restrain her. She let out a frustrated yell as she wiggled only to have him squeeze tightly around her shoulders too low to head butt his nose, the other had freed his foot and had stood by the two stomping on Ava’s side. She looked up and caught eyes with Cullen who looked almost like he had accepted he was going to die and it sent a shock of panic through her. The man kicking stumbled over a smaller higher table that was by the couch which a crystal sat atop of and fell over cursing at himself.

“You fuckin idiot!” The man strangling Cullen shouted at him causing his grip on the chord to loosen just enough to give Cullen a brief moment of relief and take in the situation.

Ava then let out a rageful scream, more like a battle cry. That didn’t catch everyone’s attention, it was the fact that she bared her teeth and lunged at the man’s throat. Sickening pop came from her mouth as she bit down as hard as she could jerking her head back in fourth like a dog, he let out a gurgle as he tried to push her away which aloud her to slid her arms up and push as well. A loud snap let out as she ripped his throat out with his teeth, he convulsed for a brief moment before becoming lifeless. The man holding the chord let it go completely, the man behind her was now standing with his mouth gaped open in shock. Ava arose to her feet heavily breathing with a chunk of gnarled flesh with other bits no one could make out and a knife in hand.

“What in the fuck.” He breathed as he let go of the chord completely causing Cullen to collapse coughing and gasping for air, he walked towards Ava who spit the flesh out and braced herself. Cullen some how managed to lunge and grab for his ankle causing him to fall. The man behind Ava tried to rush her but she kicked back hitting his stomach before he could recover she had swung down embedding the knife in his skull, his expression almost melted on his face as he collapsed. Cullen lost his grip on the remaining man who scrambled and tackled Ava from behind.

“You bitch, You’re a monster!” He screamed as he began punching the back of her head.

Ava let out a grunt as she swung her elbow back connecting it to his face, he landed on his side. Ava crawled over to him her last bit of energy running out, she knew she was hurt and bad. Nothing new to her. Cullen tried to get up and help but every time he did his vision would threaten to give way, Ava got a good punch into the man’s face before wrapping her hand around his neck trying to strangle him. It was of no use he was still to coherent, grabbing at her face as she tried to pull away he punched her on her bruised cheek causing her to knock to the side, she grabbed the large crystal that used to be on the table squeezing it tight in her hands and raised it high above her head. She looked like something out of a scary tale people would tell their children at night to keep them from miss behaving, fresh blood trailed from her mouth down her chin and neck along with a cheekbone so swollen it was starting to close up her eye and now bleeding from the punch. The man punched her ribs in an attempt to stop her only to have screamed as she swung down with grunt and a wet thud came after, she raised it again now covered in blood spray and with a weak roar she swung again this time a crack rang out. Ava dropped the bloodied crystal to the ground, and sat there for a moment on her knees letting out heavy ragged breaths. She crawled on her hands and knees wearily towards Cullen who laid on the floor in a patch of sunlight, the images of her burned into his mind. She ripped out a man’s throat, stabbed another in the head, and bashed a man’s skull in just to save him. He reached a hand up to touch his neck but winced when he lightly touched it, he had also received a black eye with an injured knee. Her breathing was raspy, she must’ve broken a rib when one of them stomped on her, she laid down next to him for a moment catching her breath.

“We-We have to get out of here.” She breathed as she used the couch to get up, Cullen tried to speak but it felt like someone was stepping on his throat. Ava reached a hand out and Cullen took it using the couch to help them both as he got up, he felt unsteady and apparently swayed to the point where Ava hooked his arm around her shoulders which was almost of no use since she was so small. Both of them some how managed to make it outside to the horses, as she was helping Cullen onto his horse a scream rang out from the house. Ava didn’t turn back to look or rush back in to see what was wrong, she climbed up onto her horse and the both of them were heading back down the road with the only thing keeping them from silence was her raspy breaths. They didn’t stop, even when he just felt like sleeping something would push him to stay awake. Ava was gazing vacantly into the distance, he noticed she would turn to look at him a few times just to return facing forward. Even in the dark he could still feel her eyes when she would look at him with the help of the moonlight through the trees, which was eventually replaced with the break of dawn. As they came around the bend they were met with soldiers from the Inquisition and King’s army, they all halted with King Alistair squinting from atop his white horse before realizing who he was looking at. The Inquisitor along with the other advisors had already climbed off of their rides striding towards them, Ava tried to climb off of her horse only to slip and hit the ground on her side with a thud.

“Well don’t just stand there, Go help!” Alistair barked at his men than climbing off of his horse, he told the courtier that they were to set up camp here and to bring the medics fourth. He stood there as people got to work giving his horses reins to a stable boy for him to handle, he placed a hand over his mouth as he thought. It was easier when his wife was here, He learned how to make some decisions without her but still he wish she was at least there. He missed her he knew that, Ava reminded him of her. He watched as they carried her off on a stretcher with Josephine and the Inquisitor following, Cullen wasn’t far behind limping after her. Cullen looked like shit, He had a large black eye a dark red, purple and blue band around his neck. He held his rib with on arm with his hand placed on his thigh to try and soothe his knee, As Cullen was about to pass Alistair, Alistair placed a gentle hand on Cullen’s shoulder to stop him for a moment with the space between the short.

“She’ll pull through, she’s a strong woman.” Alistair gave a faint reassuring smile. “I’m sure you two have just been through hell, and by the looks of it she isn’t leaving you anytime soon.” He gave a small pat before he let his hand fall from his shoulder. “Do yourself and her a favor go get looked at.”

Cullen gave a curt nod not fully listening to him has he continued to make his way to the medics and healers, he looked back at Alistair for a brief moment who had walked off a few steps rubbing the back of his head causing the simple crown he was wearing to tilt forward.

A cracked rib from what the medic could hear, a sprained knee, and a damaged throat that should heal in due time. Cullen had a very simple white shirt on with brown trousers and boots, he had a smithy take a look at his armor and joined the Inquisitor, Leliana, Josephine, along with the King by a campfire. It was nice to see a noble man still take to simple pleasures by sitting next to a fire when he could sit in a lavish tent instead, they had asked him what happened which left hardened looks on their faces.

“What do we do? That is her family yet they went against Ferelden and acted with a possible enemy.” Leliana asked

“I think that choice should be up to her since it is her family, but I don’t think there should be no punishment.” The inquisitor added

“I agree.” Josephine stated

“Lets just wait and see what she has to say.” Cullen rasped decided for them all with Alistair remaining oddly quiet.

Ava left the medics tent badly bruised, eye almost swollen shut, and broken ribs which she knew she had since she’s had it happen before. The gash on her cheek had to have an elfroot paste smeared on it with a thin bandage placed on top to help the wound heal shut, she had to pick flesh out from between her teeth which made her vomit. She couldn’t believe she had done that, but what choice did she have. She scanned the area to see the group with the King discussing something, she chose to hobble over to them. Just walking hurt her ribs, amazing how almost everything in the body is somehow connected. By the time she made it to them they were quiet.

“Ava.” Leliana breathed as she went to stand up.

“No, please just sit.” Ava waved at her and she obliged, Ava struggled for a moment giving a small wince as she sat down between the king and Cullen with enough space between them that made her comfortable. “How are you feeling?” She asked Cullen who was just about to ask her the same.

“Could be better.” He forced out in a hoarse voice than clearing his throat, it was definitely uncomfortable to speak.

“I could say the same.” She replied with a small grin as she studied him, the marks on his neck won’t go away for quiet sometime.

“Ava, we need to know what to do about your family.” Cullen struggled to ask

“They are not my family.” She quickly answered him before looking at Alistair. “I want you to give them the highest punishment you can, they committed treason.”

“You know that punishment can be death.” Alistair told her

“I don’t care, they tried to kidnap me and kill him. They deserve death.” She said staring him down, her intense eyes making him shift in his seat.

“I’ll see what I can do, but they will be arrested I assure you that.” He gave a nod

“Thank you.” Ava sighed

“I think we could discuss this all in the morning.” Leliana suggested “How about I grab my lute and lighten the mood, no?”

“That sounds like a good idea, I can grab a good wine from the cooks.” Josephine said getting to her feet and the pair took off in different directions.

Before they knew it Leliana was singing to the group and Josephine did indeed bring back a good wine. It warmed Alistair’s heart to see Leliana again, they got to catch up on the road and having her sing right now warmed his heart but also pained it. He wishes his love was here, sitting with them, singing along, laughing, just being in his arms. She would’ve loved this. As he looked around at their faces he noticed Ava was looking at Cullen who was having a debate with the inquisitor, his eye brows knitted together as he tried to make a point though he could hardly speak. Alistair saw that she was watching him, more like studying every movement he made, with a soft warm look on her face with a small smile but there was something. Something he was missing, and he saw it when she looked down into the fire. Pain, but not from her injuries. From her heart, there was almost a sadness in her eyes. He looked at his wife like that at one point, he loved her with all his heart, every fiber of his being, but it would hit him sometimes that all that could be taken away which would sadden him yet scare him at the same time. He could see her eyes start to turn red as tears tried to form, Ava gave a hard blink and swallowed her emotions looking back up at Leliana before slowly standing up.

“Leaving so soon?” Alistair questioned, he was already looking at her so he figured he should ask.

“Yes, I am quite tired.” She told him

“Well, I had a tent set up for you not far from the medics, it is three tents down. I hope it is adequate for you if not please tell me or one of my men.” Alistair explained

“I’m sure it will be fine.” She assured him with a curt smile.

“Let me walk you back.” Cullen said as he stood.

“No, I’ll be fine. You should get some rest too though.” She suggested, she told everyone goodnight to which they did the same and she headed off towards her tent.

Slowly everyone disbursed until it was just Cullen and Alistair left by a dying fire, Alistair offered to show him to his tent though Cullen tried to protest he eventually agreed, Alistair was impressed that his men had lit the area up well enough they weren’t stumbling in the dark. He had to adjust his speed a few times to accommodate for Cullen’s limp until he found the right pace and they were walking side by side.

“You are a lucky man you know.” Alistair admitted

“I am?” Cullen asked with a raised brow

“You are, to have a woman fight for you like that is incredible.” Alistair told him glancing at him every so often.

“She is amazing, a pain in the ass, but amazing.” He agreed “I left out a part in our ambush, she had ripped a man’s throat just to save me. I still don’t know why, I could tell she wasn’t fighting to save herself it was to save me.”

“Makers breath.” Alistair breathed “With her teeth?”

Cullen gave a nod, he was glad his throat was feeling better after a medic gave him an elixir to drink.

“That is, well, insane.” Alistair chuckled “I don’t know if my wife would do that, I mean kill an archdemon yes. But to rip a man’s throat out with her teeth! I don’t think she can beat that.”

A small silence fell onto them for a small moment, the only sound was the crunching underneath their feet until Alistair cleared his throat stopping him and Cullen a few feet before they were to walk past Ava’s tent.

“You know, I’ve seen the way she looks at you.” Alistair told Cullen as his eyebrows knitted together.

“The way she looks at me?” Cullen asked what felt like a dumb question.

“You’d be a fool not to notice, she adores you. Might just be madly in love with you after that story.” Alistair chuckled, and Cullen felt like a fool. “The way she looks at you is the way I used to look at my wife, which I still do when I see her and Ava reminds me of her so much I swear they could be related.” Alistair gave a sigh. “You should say something to her, you wouldn’t want a woman like that slipping through your fingers.”

What did he mean? Does she love him? If she did, it is only as a friend or something more? Cullen’s thoughts bounced around in his brain, realizing Alistair had only stopped them a few feet from her tent. He should talk to her, he has run away too many times before as it is.

“I should check on her anyways, thank you.” Cullen smiled as Alistair patted his shoulder

“Well, Good luck to you than and I will see you in the morning.” Alistair said as he began to walk away.

“That you will.” Cullen told him and he replied with a wave in the air not turning around.

Cullen felt nerves creep into his stomach then settle as he approached her tent, her lanterns were still on once her got close enough. He cleared his throat before announcing himself.

“Come in.” She called out which startled him since he hasn’t even declared who he was and the fact her response was so fast.

He pushed the tents flap to the side, leaning down a bit as he made his way in. She had her backed turned to him, her hair completely undone reaching all the way down to her hindquarters. For a moment he though she had no shirt on, but could see white bandage peeking through her mess of black hair. She turned around facing him, they stood there for a moment saying nothing. Her bandages were wrapped all around her chest and she had her arm across her lower ribs, he could see her bruise had grew bigger now spreading to the lower half of her face.

“Why did you save me?” He blurted at out which the question seemed to shock her.

“Why wouldn’t I?” Asking a question in return as she furrowed her eyebrows.

“Ava, you bit a man’s throat and ripped it out with your teeth. Why? You could’ve just let me die, and I know you so there is no way you can say that you did it so you could be free.” Cullen explained “You had away to get out of that, you could’ve let me go.”

“Is that what you want me to say? I should’ve let you die?” She furrowed her eyebrows together with a confused angry look. “What do you wish you died, is that what you’re saying?”

“Maybe I do!” He shouted at her his voice cracking sending a shot of pain through his neck, he swallowed hard to try and ignore the trouble his throat was causing him. The look on her face was shocked and angry with her mouth slightly a gaped, her eyebrows know knitted together causing wrinkles to form.

“What do you mean maybe you do?” Ava asked him angrily “How could you say that?”

“I-I’m scared.” Cullen confided in her and her look softened “I’m scared because the lyrium with drawls have gotten worse, I don’t want to be some rambling man wandering the streets or hurting the ones I love because my brain has turned to liquid.” He squeezed his eyes shut for a moment before opening them again looking at her. “And you can’t keep saving me, I’m not going to live forever.”

“Cullen, I…” She paused for a moment trying to find the words, pressing her lips thin giving a sigh before her expression turned worried. “That isn’t going to happen to you.” She sympathized taking a few steps towards him placing a hand on his arm with a light squeeze, she looked up at him looking into his eyes. “That will never be you, I can promise you that.” She gave a sigh. “And you are right I can’t be there to save you every time, but despite how annoyed or upset I get with you I will always be there to save you. Whether you like it or not.”

He paused for a moment studying her face, he could see it written all over her face how much she cared for him. She made him not feel so hopeless towards the lyrium with drawls, towards a lot of things.

“Do you love me?” He blurted out

“Do I love you?” She repeated feeling panic and nerves race through her, this was her chance to tell him how she really felt and she might not get another with the way things are going. “Of course, I do that’s a silly question.” She gave a small chuckle “You’re my best friend, Cullen. We’ve been through everything together, and I have saved you more times than I could count.”

“I know, I just figured I should ask.” He gave a small smile, but he felt like something was missing in what she said that it felt empty yet full all at the same time. “I love you too, you’re are the greatest friend I could ever have.”

She felt a pain in her chest, she knew he meant it but not in the way that she was hoping. She gave his arm another small squeeze with a small before backing away. “I suggest we get some sleep.”

“I agree, once everything is handled here we head back to Denerim.” He added

“Goodnight Cullen.” Ava told him

“Goodnight Ava.” He said softly before turning and leaving.

Ava wanted to cry, but she didn’t. Instead she swallowed her feelings and crawled into her makeshift bed they had prepared for her and went to sleep.

5 notes · View notes