#I’m choosing to be pleased with that rather than harping on how i desperately need to edit 🙃

[chdarling]

feeling pretty emotional this morning about how there are only 2 chapters of TLE2 left. Holy shit.

[evalinashryver]

A Mysterious Stranger: thoughts on Gwyn’s unknown father

Gwyneth Berdara: our lovely cinnammon roll who could actually kill you who was introduced in ACOSF and who took the fandom by storm. She’s strong, brave, good and optimistic despite a dark past, a great friend that Nesta desperately needed. Her potential as a character is extraordinary, both because of the development and healing she needs to undergo, her connection with the Valkyries and Nesta and a very mysterious — and interesting! — family tree.

@yazthebookish​ did a great meta elaborating on Gwyn's maternal bloodline, connecting her with the Autumn Court and, more specifically, to Eris, which you can find and read (here). As you can guess by the title, we’ll not be diving into that side of the family, but rather about the mysterious stranger who so happens to be her father. 

Firstly, I want to clarify that we actually have almost no information on Gwyn's father except for this one line in ACOSF: I, we—my sister and I, I mean—were the result of that sacred union with a male stranger. If we apply Occam's Razor to try and figure out his identity, the solution that covers all available data and makes the fewest leaps of logic is that this mysterious male is just that: a mysterious male, irrelevant in the grand scheme of things. 

But let's be honest— we all know how unlikely that is in a fantasy and ficiton setting. How many books out there do we have where a character’s unknown father (because yes, it’s hardly ever the mothers) turns out to be of relevance? And SJM does love to give her character something extra, something more, that makes them stand out from those surrouding them.

 Look at ToG: how many of them either came from important bloodlines or were blessed by some kind of God? Aelin and Dorian are royals and a descendant of Mala herself; Yrene, introduced a novella and expanded upon Tower of Dawn, comes from an ancient line of healers dating centuries back; the key players are nearly all tied to some deity. 

 In ACoTaR itself, both Azriel and Cassian don't really come from special bloodlines (that we know of), but are extremely powerful to make up for it. The Archeron sisters? Their father was the Prince of Merchants, and there may be something else to their bloodline that we don’t yet know like, say, being descendants of the Fae who imprisoned Koschei. Feyre ended the curse and a silver of the High Lord’s magic, Nesta took from the Cauldron when she went down, and it loved Elain so much it voluntarily gave her more. 

So let's put in our tinfoil hats and ask: what if Gwyn's paternal side is more than what it appears to be?

We all know Sarah loves Mythology and folklore and is constantly lifting things directly from it, be it names or concepts. Sometimes she picks and chooses and blends them together to create her own thing, other times she doesn’t even bother as much. Nyx's own name, for instance, or the High King Fionn, from the Irish legend of Fionn mac Cumhaill. 

It’s fairly common in mythology and folklore for deities and supernatural beings to take different guises and seduce different women, then disappear and leaving them behind with a child, unbeknownst to them. Some already know from the start, but other times, the child grows up and only learns of their parentage when fate comes calling. 

There's one god I'd like to call attention to, though. One norse God who is known to wander through the nine worlds, with a nearly insatiable thirst for knowledge: Odin. Wait, Ella, why Odin, of all of them? Because the Valkyries are his daughters. It's true that ACoTaR's Valkyries more closely mirror the Amazons than the Norse Valkyries themselves, but the connection is still there. And who brought the Valkyries up first, questioned why they didn't use Valkyrie technics (even though Nesta suggested mixing it with th Illyrians), and perhaps most symbolic, she was the first to cut the ribbon.

Gwyn, first of the new Valkyries.

We know from Sarah's multiverse that there are ways to travel between worlds; in ACoTaR, the harp itself allows one to open any door; in ToG, we have the wyrdkeys and the gates. So what if Gwyn's father was one such worldwaker, who just so happened to be passing by then? This could potentially tie her in with the greater forces at work, the otherworldly beings which Koschei and the Bone Carver are a part of. A child of secret knowledge.

That's the first assumption/idea. The second one is the other reason why I selected Odin: in the Norse versions of the story, he's the leader of Wild Hunt. ACoSF introduces us to the concept in the verse, this is what we know of it: "The Wild Hunt was a way to keep all of us in line. They’d gather a host of their fiercest, most merciless warriors and grant them free rein to kill as they pleased."

What's even funnier is that Odin, despite our current image of him, was far more related to the more berserker warriors and the frenzy of the combat. The Valkyries, the choosers of the slain, picked the most valiant and fiercest of warriors, half of whom became einherjar— and here I'd like to point out that they stemmed or were influenced probably from a common source, as the Wild Hunt is a ghostly horde (that does not seem to be the case in ACOTAR, but the connection is there).

Which brings me to another possibility: what if Gwyn's father is one the Daglan? We know they were cast down and hunted down, likely by Fionn (Rhys says that this one of the strains, but I'm going to go with it being true to Prythian), but just like there were Fae who fought with the humans in the Great War, were there not Daglan who sided with the Fae and Humans? We know that after they were cast down, the Fae hunt them down and imprisoned them, slowly, but how many managed to survive and live out there, in hiding? Even if they were not evil, the Daglan were demonized. Just like the Fae imprisoned Amren for thinking her one of their enemies, they could have turned against the Daglan who actually helped them.

The Daglan are, to me, inspired by the Fomorians who are described to be gods associated with the destructive powers of nature, being in direct opposition to the other race of gods, who are associated with more positive things. They also dwelled under the sea or under the earth. Cassian gives us Lubia as a seamonster. But under the Earth? We have the halls of the Prison, Under the Mountain, Hewn City... And yet unexplored Ramiel. With how the Hewn City designs were connected to the hounds of the hunt, these to me were important places of the Daglan of old. They might've even held the Dread Trove, once upon a time, and maybe Ramiel still does, or at least a clue towards it.

Gwyn being half-Daglan could neatly connect her to the overarching plot of the series, which seems to be going further into how the world was before the Fae took rulership. It would also tie her in with the otherworldly beings and plot that's emerging, and allow her to play a greater role. Would she be able to scry the fourth trove? No, but she and Azriel — because I firmly believe the next book is his — might be able to figure out and unveil the shadows surrounding the fourth trove.

This is very tinfoil-y and I'll readily admit that, but it's a thought that grabbed me and won't let go so I'm throwing it out there! Enjoy!

[rons-hermiones]

Come Find Me

Come Find Me

by rons-hermiones

Summary: Unplanned, Hermione is forced to spend Christmas at the Burrow due to her grandmother falling very ill. After being ignored by Hermione for weeks, Ron is determined to show her how much she means to him. Just before he gets the chance to tell her, Bellatrix Lestrange shows up with other plans for Hermione. Can Ron get to her before it's too late? (Ron/Hermione Half-Blood Prince AU)

Rating: M for language & dark themes in later chapters.

Chapter Twenty Eight

Ron sent the owl out last night. He didn’t write much. He knew he didn’t have to. 

Fred and George would do as they were told, for once knowing the severity and seriousness of his requests. 

So now, he sat anxiously by his window awaiting their reply. 

When he woke up the next morning and saw an owl tapping at his window with a small parcel, he almost leaped in excitement. 

However, as he read the tag from his Mum and Dad, his face dropped in disappointment. He almost forgot, he’s seventeen today. 

Seventeen is a big deal in the wizarding world. You’re free to do magic outside of school, you can get an apparating license. He’s a legal adult. He can buy his own flat, drop out of school, get married, have free reign of his vault down at Gringotts. 

He should be excited. Over the moon with this new found freedom. 

But he’s not. 

The one thing he wants, it seems that no one can give him. 

The second best thing to that, Fred and George’s response, has yet to come. 

Bugger Birthday’s he thought as he collapsed back on his bed. 

He’d left the dining hall moments ago. The mass of Gryffindor begged him to stay for pudding, saying it was his birthday after all, but he declined. Made up some barmy lie that his Mum sent him some candy he wanted to have at. He promised them he’d meet them in the common room in an hour. 

Another lie. 

He was missing Hermione more than ever today. It was his first birthday in what, six years, that she wasn’t around to give him a gift. 

It would probably have been some book. He would’ve pretended he wouldn’t read it, but he would. He always did. 

There’s even a stack of all the ones he’s gifted them under his bed at the Burrow. He scanned through them all at least three times. Something about her picking out the various texts whilst she thinks of him is just so special. 

Merlin, I’m mental.  

He shakes his head trying to veer his thoughts from what could have been today. Instead he directs his mind to something he can understand. Something that’s simple enough, routine. 

You’re hungry. You eat. You wait. You’re hungry again. You keep eating. And so on. 

And right now his stomach is letting out a frustrated grumble at his decision to skip tonight’s pudding. 

For second he can’t even remember why he’d do such a- oh yeah. That’s why. 

Not wanting to explain to anyone, namely Harry, why he left in the first place, he opts for raiding his trunk in hopes to find something from Honeydukes. 

After rummaging through jumpers, parchment, and other miscellaneous items he closes the thing with a defeated huff. 

His eyes soon land on Harry’s trunk. They share just about everything. They’ve raided one another’s things before. What’s mine is his, what’s his is mine. 

After all, he can’t be upset. It is my birthday, Ron thought. 

He flung open his friend's trunk and spent some time in there, narrowly avoiding any contact with his best mates underwear. 

Finally, just when Ron reached the bottom he spotted them. 

Gotcha. 

For a brief moment he held them up and began squishing them, as if to test their density. He wondered why Harry didn’t have at them, he knew he was quite fond of the little things. 

Shrugging he unwrapped it and popped one in his mouth. 

After chewing thoughtfully for a few moments and deciding they weren’t spoiled, like he originally thought. 

Ron swallowed the chocolate cauldron. 

...

It had been twenty minutes since Harry entered the common room and Ron still didn’t come down. He had rightfully so been worried for his best mate as of late, and skipping pudding on any day, his birthday no less? Unheard of. 

Merlin, is this how he and Hermione always feel about me? 

Dismissing the thought, he trudged up the boys dormitory step and pushed open the door to their room. 

There he found Ron, sitting cross legged on the bed, a dreamy look on his face. It’s the happiest he’s seen him look in months. 

“Ron?” He called out, cautiously stepping further into the room. 

“Harry!” He called excitedly from the bed, jumping to his feet and smiling. 

“Hey...” he replied nervously. 

“Have you seen her?” The ginger asked almost anxiously. 

The chosen one was taken aback, “no, what? We just talked about this.” 

Ron looked confused, “we did? Well, where is she?” He asked eagerly, teetering anger and impatience. However, still looking rather well-drunk. 

“Ron what?” He shook his head, “did Fred and George send you Fire whiskey? You’re acting well-pissed.” The chosen one said. 

Before Ron could respond, something donned on Harry, “wait if they sent you fire whiskey, that means they sent you a reply. Meaning they know-“

Harry was soon stopped by a plush pillow thunking onto his head. 

“Focus Harry! Where is she?” He demanded, with a slight scowl, eyes still clouded. 

“Ron I just said-“ he watches as Weasley tosses the pillow onto the bed, leading atop foil wrappers. 

Glimmering gold foil wrappers surrounding his best mate's bed. 

Hermione’s voice distantly rang through his head: “That’s Romilda Vane. Apparently she’s trying to smuggle you a love potion.”

That along with flashes of a pink card donned in hearts and a sack of chocolate cauldrons flash behind his eyes.

Buggering fuck- 

“Ron, is this about Romilda?” Harry decides to ask carefully. 

Any anger soon leaves the other boy's face as a wistful smile takes over, “of course it is Harry, when is it not?” He sighs. 

Well, considering before this year I haven’t heard about her since Dean took her to the ball... never. He refrains from saying.  

“You’ve got to help me find her! Please Harry, will you? Please!” Ron pathetically dropped to one knee and clutched the edges of his friends shirt sleeves. 

Harry stares down a little bewildered. It was odd to see Ron in such a state and he knew he’d need to fix this fast. 

Knowing he couldn’t do it on his own, he weighed his options. 

Dumbledore was probably way too busy. McGonagall would freak out. 

This was a love potion after all, he could suppose a potions master would do. 

Trouble is, he doesn’t fancy waltzing around the dungeons or talking to Snape. On the other hand, he and Slughorn did have a rather tense conversation earlier about his relationship to Tom Riddle. 

Harry knew he had to push aside any awkwardness for Ron’s sake and decided on what to do. 

“Help me find her, please? She’d want me to find her.” Ron states, not happy with Harry’s silence. 

The Boy-Who-Lived gulp, he couldn’t help but hear Ron’s pained voice in the back of his mind telling him Hermione asked him to find her. 

‘Come find me.’

That’s what Ron said her last words to him were. 

He swallows the bile in his throat, preparing a tale, “come on, I heard Romilda is with Slughorn-“

“She’s with Slughorn? He’s way too old! He doesn’t love her like-“ 

“No, Ron, he's tutoring her.” Though a lie, this didn’t satisfy the ginger, “if Romilda does bad in potions then she can’t graduate. Then how will you guys start your lives together?” Merlin, he can't believe these words are leaving his mouth. 

“You’re right Harry! Come on, let’s go find her.” Ron stood now, but swayed a bit. 

Harry grabbed onto his shoulders for a bit of support. As the chosen one ushered his love sick friend from the room, he failed to notice the pecking of Fred and George’s owl on the window. 

...

Harry wrapped his knuckles on Slughorn’s door, hoping he’d be awake. 

Thankfully, after a moment, he heard shuffling. 

The small window through the door opened, “Harry?” The potions teacher questioned, soon his face dropped, “if this is about-“

“No sir!” He insisted, “I’m sorry to bother you so late, I wouldn’t if it wasn’t important, but it seems as if-“ 

“Harry, is she there?” Ron called loudly from a few feet behind.

Slughorn’s eyes widened, failing to notice Weasley’s presence, “it seems as if Ron accidentally took a love potion. I was hoping you may have a cure.” 

Horace’s eyes again flicked to the red heads. He noticed the unmistakable dazed look only a strong potion could cause and sighed. 

“Come in, I’ll be sure to fix Rodney right up. Harry chooses not to harp on the fact he messed up his name, despite only speaking it seconds ago, and turns to Ron. 

“Romilda had to get something from her dorm, but she’ll be back soon. Let’s wait for her in here. So she’ll know where you are.” Harry lies, knowing the fact Romilda Vane wouldn’t be inside would anger his love struck friend. 

Deafly, the ginger saunters through the now open door as Harry places him on the brown couch in the center of the room.  

Ron’s hands appear to be longing to hold something, as he desperately grasps at the air. Sighing, Harry shoves a pillow into his arms, seeing that had worked when he found him earlier. 

“I’m sorry again for this and earlier.” Harry told his Professor, walking to where he was mixing something. 

Slughorn tuts, “nonsense, water under the bridge. I’m happy to help you and your friend. It’s been a while since I’ve mixed a remedy for this, it’s quite fun!” He admits, throwing in some powder that turns the liquid a violet color. 

The dark haired boy can’t help but smirk, a bit amused by the old man's excitement. 

“Tell me boy, how did Rhodes find himself accidentally taking a love potion?” 

Biting his tongue on correcting Slughorn, Harry opted to explain, “He had left the great hall early. It is his birthday-“

“Birthday! Very important, seventeen is he?” Slughorn questions. Funny how he could get Ron’s age, but not name, correct. 

He nods, “yeah, well, I reckon he wanted some candy or something for it, dunno. I had some spiked with a love potion, he took it by mistake.” 

Thankfully, the professor didn’t seem to question exactly why Harry had spiked candies and instead handed him a glass. 

“Unfortunate on his seventeenth of all days! But you give him this and Ren will have time to

spare to celebrate.” 

Harry smiled gratefully, “cheers.” He joked before walking to the couch. “Ron?” He said tentatively. 

His blue eyes seemed to snap from a trance, “Oi Harry, you told me she’d be here!” He exclaimed fussily. 

A little annoyed, Potter sighs, “I know I did, but she told me she needs you to drink this first.” 

Funny enough, Ron doesn’t question it because of his current state and downs the whole thing in a few gulps. 

Just moments later, the glossed over look leaves his eyes, as his lips drop from their smile. 

“Merlin, what happened to me?” He groaned sadly. 

“Love potion.” Harry said simply, just as Slughorn joined them. 

“I feel really-Harry, did you hear anything about Hermione?” Ron asked, sounding so sad, clearly his mind was a bit foggy since he asked in front of Slughorn. 

“Miss Granger, I thought he was thinking about Romilda Vane?” Slughorn whispered loud enough Ron would’ve heard, had he been paying attention. 

Harry shook his head, not wanting to delve into the topic, “is he okay?” 

“Just needs a pick me up. It’s a bit drastic going from such a high to this. So what I’ll it be, Roy?” 

This seems to snap Ron’s attention. 

“Butter beer. Wine. Matured Mead.” He lists, picking up the latter, “I had other plans for this, but it feels appropriate. It is your birthday after all Ryan.” He winks. 

“Right...” Ron trails, still feeling rather down. 

Slughorn pours three glasses. Handing two to Harry, who passes the dark liquid to Ron. 

“Here’s a toast to,” the old man thought for a moment, “another year of life!” Slughorn and Harry clink glasses. 

Ron however, doesn’t wait, and takes a large sip of his. 

“Happy Birthday Ro-“ 

Before the potions master can finish his sentence a large thud sounds. 

At his and Harry’s feet, is a writhing Ron. 

[justadram]

Words Written on Wings

Jaime x Sansa fic written for @storey1. Thank you for your donation to help fight Nazis!

Request: continuation of Words Written in Steam

The soft sweet sound of Sansa’s high harp echoes in the chill of the corridor. Sansa once told Jaime that the harp was one of her weapons, and while that might be the case, he has heard those who play with more skill. Lady Leonette, her first teacher, while proficient and pleasant enough, was not Prince Rhaegar returned. Knowing it is Sansa’s head bowed beside its golden frame, however, lends some enchantment to the playing that few could duplicate in Jaime’s estimation. The only thing that might improve upon the glissandos would be the accompaniment of her voice. She rarely sings, but the beauty of her sad voice can cut as keenly as any blade. That is her true weapon.

Listening to her fingers pluck the taut strings is a fleeting pleasure: when he makes his presence known, she’ll put her instrument away for the night. For she plays either in solitude or for company, and he is something else to her. She doesn’t think to entertain or win him over, as she does the others, but he is also not yet a fading piece of furniture adorning her chamber.

Slowing his steps, Jaime tries to recall the song without the benefit of the words sung over it, but as soon as he thinks he’s caught a thread, she misses a note, two, and the music stops. Without yet turning the corner, he can picture her elegant white hands pressed flat to the strings, dampening their ring. Her face will be pinched with annoyance, drawing her finely arched brows down. It isn’t like her to make a mistake. Not on the harp, nor on any other field she commands, and yet tonight, she was not herself long before her notes went astray.

Something disturbs her practiced calm, enough that Jaime wonders whether he should have bent his feet this way to stretch out before her hearth and stare into the flames as is their habit. Custom overcame hesitation. That and the fear of the emptiness he feels, when he is left to his own devices. Those long nights when she must see to those more important than him in this new world order reverberates with voices lost forever, the past washing over him as relentlessly as the tide.

His good hand wraps around the thick frame of the door, as he dips his head through its entrance, clearing his throat to announce his presence. She ought to have a guard posted. It is a well-worn argument between the two of them.

Why do I have need of constant guard, when a lion stands beside me?

To protect us from each other, a more honest man would admit.

She lifts her gaze to him, and he swallows at the pull of her lower lip through her teeth as she stands and lets the harp rest back flat on the floor. How long was it before vague attraction, a sort of detached appreciation turned into this clawing hunger?

“You’ve been listening long enough to know I’m in need of practice.”

“Are my footfalls that heavy?”

“Just a wager.”

Sansa’s intuition is honed sharply enough that she could make a real menace of herself at the gaming table, should she ever take it into her head to indulge the pursuit. Indulgence of any kind is not her practice. Ned Stark’s daughter indeed.

“But yes, I heard. A disastrous effort to be sure,” he says with a slow grin.

If she would give an inch, he would be lost. It is her caution that keeps him in check. He is half a man at best, and the loss of his hand was not the cause. Nature made him this week: strong in body, weak in character. He is at best the reflection of others. Choosing the right mirror is the real trick. Ser Arthur Dayne for a time, his sister, now Sansa Stark. His honor, the one he sought so desperately, is only hers reflected back.

She hums her assent, though she knows he teases, and gestures at the two chairs before the hearth. It is an invitation he scarcely requires, as he strides to take his place beside her, but she is nothing if not courteous. It gives them a script to follow, which he appreciates. Knowing one’s role is half the battle.

“You might wish you’d sought out better company tonight, ser. It’s not only my playing that suffers if that weren’t yet plain.”

Even on her worst day, Jaime has known worse company. Certainly less beautiful company. Less quick. Less gentle. It is she that is forbearing of his moods more often than not, so he can afford to be tolerant.

“Will you ask what is amiss?” she asks, as she sinks into her chair and rests her head against the side of its high back, turning her lash shadowed eyes on him.

Crossing his ankle over his knee, he watches the light play over her unlined face, tracing the slope of her nose, her cheekbones, the bow of her lips, consuming every detail to sate himself. This is how they wile the hours alone, trading verbal intimacies and looking. It is only in the attendance of others that he ever dares touch her, freed from constraint by the safeguard of their presence.

Kneeling at her feet, he could wipe away that careworn look she wears.

The silence between them beats with the pulse of the blood in his veins, not yet sluggish with enough wine, watered down as it often is, though spring has come. Thriving vineyards are not the most pressing need of a thawing Westeros.

Giving up on his ever prompting her, she lets her head roll towards the fire with a purse of her lips. “A raven brought word today. Jon has arranged a marriage. For himself.”

His gut twists.

Just as Sansa’s giving of Winterfell to Jon Snow as a poor substitute for herself brought Jaime no real joy, he feels no thrill in this announcement. If she’d gone with Jon to the North, he could have dispensed with this attempt to be someone he fears he’ll never quite manage to be. The mummer’s act could be dispensed with and there would be some relief in that, he suspects.

Though Sansa will never admit it, Jaime can’t even claim victory over the dour faced bastard. He knows he is not Sansa’s first choice anymore than she is his. It is circumstance—mostly unwanted circumstance—that has thrown the lion and the shewolf together and formed them into a two person pride or pack.

If anything, he feels trapped. Like a hare in a foot soldier’s snare.

He runs his hand over the plush fabric covering the left arm of his chair. The fibers give under his touch and spring back, as he asks flatly in what he hopes sounds like bored disinterest, “One of the Mormonts?”

“The daughter of that hedge knight Daenerys raised up in High Garden.”

Jaime snorts. The men elevated in these days aren’t fit to sit at the same table with the likes of Tywin Lannister, much less hold a great house. He supposes his brother thinks it helps his queen consolidate her power to surround herself with loyal upstarts.

“She’s a child, is she not?”

Her narrow shoulders lift and fall. “Older than I was when Daenerys made land.”

“A child and a Southroner.”

That is like to irk Sansa more than the girl’s age. She is wary of all Southroners, and with good reason given what she endured at their hands. His family’s hands. He does penance for that, keeping his hands to himself, when he would like to run them over her smooth skin.

“Yes. It’s not what I was expecting from Jon.”

“You’re... disappointed? In his choice?” he falsely clarifies for her benefit.

“No,” she says, her eyes narrowing as her lips curl into something approaching a smile. “It makes more political sense than I gave Jon credit for.”

“How astute. That hedge knight’s wife was a crofter. A finer match was never made.”

“That doesn’t matter now,” she says with a wave of her hand. “Daenerys favors these new families. She’ll be pleased. And Jon prefers a simpler woman, I think. It might suit him.”

He lifts his brows at her insincerity. “This message appears to have earned the old saying for you. Dark wings, dark words. What is the source of your upset then, if he has chosen so wisely, pray tell?”

She refuses to turn her attention on him, staring fixedly. Never will she admit what she really feels for her bastard brother, and while he taunts, the last thing he truly wants is an admission from her. Jaime seeks assurances of his place here. With her. If he is a rabbit, he’s sought the warmth of her lap. There were no need of snares.

“I own I am surprised in his choice. He demonstrated rather more refined preferences in women when last I saw him. More appreciation for those he’d call family too.”

That finally rouses her. Its an icy glance, as cold as any Northern winter she casts his way.

He’d rather she be full of wrath than sullen, so he presses further, as he extends a boot towards the fire. “Shall I arrange an assassination? Solve both your problems once and for all?”

“Don’t jest.”

“Was I?”

She exhales slowly as if in exacerbation. “Sometimes I don’t know with you, ser.” She reaches across the space and trails her fingertips over the linen of his shirt. His hairs respond, standing at attention in the wake of her touch. “But don’t you dare.”

He lowers his voice. “I’d do it for you, my lady.” Perhaps he would. He’s done worse or close to it. He’d feel some conflict, but not enough. “And then your honorable Jon Snow would come for my head.”

As surely as if he’d spoken of what he might do with his cock in the seclusion of her bedchamber, her cheeks color. She’s a bold thing, when she wants to be, however, and her hand finds his, slender fingers slipping between his sword calloused ones.

“No, I wish Jon and his bride all happiness.”

He would laugh at the absurdity of her statement if the tension in his chest permitted it.

He curls his fingers in, squeezing too hard in his rising desperation to hold tight to what feels like is slipping away from him even as obstacles are removed from his path. “Of course you do. Your concern for his happiness was most evident when you sent him away, trading him a kingdom for your love.”

She didn’t choose Jaime, but he would accept her claiming she did, plying him with some prettily worded lie here alone with her hand in his. He could live off that lie.

Her fingers dig half-moons into his palm. “Jon does not always know what is best for him.”

“And you do?” She normally does a better job of obscuring the fact that she believes she knows better than anyone else. Men do not like to be so blatantly managed. Most men. Jaime finds it easier to submit. Just a touch of artifice will do.

“His parentage doesn’t change what was. Ned Stark was his father. He needed to believe in the meaning of his Targaryen blood, but Jon and I are both Starks. Not Targaryens.”

“Nor Lannister.”

She nods. “We can’t always silence our hearts, but we can choose what’s right.”

It is not a romantic girl’s notion. She sounds like a septa. It would cool his ardor if he did not think stripping a septa’s veil from her coppery locks appealing. Jaime always appreciated playacting.

“Well, he lacks a sense of humor and fails in conversation, but I cannot fault him for his taste.” Neither in choosing Sansa nor a sister. “Best wishes to them both, I suppose.”

She gives her head a tired shake. “It’s all for the best.”

He turns his hand, letting her palm fit into his. “Sounds practically medicinal.”

“Not all tinctures are loathsome.”

Pulling their clasped hands from the arm of his chair, something dances in her eyes. Something other than the reflection of the flames. Something freed by a raven’s message.

“I can be plenty odious.”

She clicks her tongue and draws their hands to her breast. “I am aware of your questionable qualities, ser.”

Tilting her head down, she kisses each knuckle in turn, as his breath quickens.

“The songs never celebrate those who did what was best for them.” And while this Southron upstart might be just the thing for a lovesick bastard prince, Jaime wonders that Sansa’s skills at deception—even self-deception—can extend so far as to believe him a salve for what ails her.

“Imagine how dull it would be if they did. But they might sing of the wolf and the lion. Mightn’t they?”

They might.

[beneathsilverstars]

Inquisitor As Companion: Nai’ahvier

It’s been a while, I figured I should finally write the last section and actually post this! I wrote out a lot of dialogue so it’s a tad long, have fun. ;)

(content warnings: her brother is a bit of an abusive shithead, and she’s a little desperate for approval, and making the wrong choice in her related personal quest can have some really sucky effects. also, she’s ace, and if romanced, the inquisitor can say dumb things regarding that.)

Name:

Nai’ahvier Alerion

Race, Class, & Specialization:

She’s an elven mage. Since there’s one companion with each dai specialization I’m gonna say she’s allowed to add a new one: Spirit Healer.

Nickname:

Varric calls her Hummingbird, because she’s small and colorful and flits around collecting flowers, and mostly... because she hums a lot. ;)

Default Card:

Here’s a sketch! It’s not based on an actual Tarot because I like to have fun.

Recruitment:

You find Nai’ahvier in a group of rebel mages in the Hinterlands, fighting some templars. Once the templars are all defeated, it goes into a cutscene where she offers to surrender on behalf of the mages left in her lil group. You can tell them to get lost, to go to the Inquisition for protection, or to go to the Inquisition so you can keep on eye on them, or you can attack. If you choose any of the non-attack options, Nai’ahvier offers to join:

I’ve heard that the Inquisition helps people. I’ve been trying to help the mages here, but there’s always more angry templars, more scared townspeople… It’s been the same desperate fight for survival every day - until you showed up. The Inquisition is changing things. And if you’re trying to end the war, and to fix the sky, I want to help.

There are a few question options, and then accepting or rejecting her offer:

(?) Who are you? Oh, I’m sorry, we never had proper introductions! I’m Nai’ahvier, the First of clan Alerion. And you are, of course, the Herald of Andraste.

(?) You’re Dalish, right? What are you doing in the middle of these fights instead of back with your clan? When I first heard about the mages leaving the Circles, I knew they’d need help. Most of them have spent pretty much their entire lives locked up; they don’t know the first thing about how to survive outside the Circles! Leaving everything you’ve known, no matter how awful those things are….

It’s hard enough to adjust even without templars after you. And with the templars – well. They needed all the help they could get. And it’s not like many other people were stepping up.

(?) What skills can you offer the Inquisition? I know I don’t look it, but I’m a good fighter, and an even better healer. I work hard, I’m good with people. I’ll help however I can. And.. (if the inquisitor is a human, qunari, or dwarf) I’ve got connections with the Dalish. Your reputation among the people relies primarily on your position in the Chantry, as the Inquisition and as the Herald. The Dalish aren’t going to be swayed so easily by Andrastian titles. I can help you out there; they’ll already think more highly of you if one of their own is seen as an esteemed member, and I know what to tell them to get them further on your side. You could use their support, and I can get it for you. (if the inquisitor is an elf) I know the clans around here. They’re happy to see a Dalish elf in a position of power, but wary that the power in question is a Chantry Inquisition. I can convince them that you’re more than a chantry mouthpiece, that you’re really on their side. I can reach out to them, get their support, so you don’t have to take time out of saving the world to do it yourself. And it’s always nice having another Dalish around, right?

(1) Welcome to the team. Thank you! I promise I won’t let you down.

(2) We don’t need your help. ... I understand. I’ll keep watching out for the mages here, then! Good luck. We’re counting on you.

Default location:

At Haven, she hangs out near the apothecary.

In Skyhold, she has a spot in the garden, off to the side.

Mages or Templars:

Nai’ahvier is very pro-mage and terrified of templars. She’ll admit magic can be a bit dangerous, but insists that templars and Circles make mages more dangerous rather than less, in addition to the awful things they do directly. If you ask her to elaborate on that before her personal quest, she tells you vague things she heard from the rebel mages in the Hinterlands; if you ask afterwards, she’ll admit that her opinions are from her own experiences, and if you have high approval, she’ll give you some more specific and in-depth examples. If you have low approval, she’ll equivocate and say that she might be unlucky and biased and the Inquisitor is probably correct, whatever their stance is.

Fetch quest:

When you talk to Nai’ahvier in the Skyhold garden, a cutscene starts where you find her quietly singing and surreptitiously strumming patterns in the air.

> What are you doing? Oh! I’m sorry Inquisitor, I was just – I played the harp as a kid, but I lost mine a while ago, but I still like trying to remember the songs.. I hope I didn’t bother you!

(diplomatic) The garden’s for everyone, don’t worry about it. (slightly approves) Well, everyone includes everyone else, I don’t want to be a nuisance... But if you say it’s okay!

(sarcastic) It’s a refreshing change from Maryden’s repertoire, at least. (slightly disapproves) [giggles] I’ll make sure to keep up the variety!

(aggressive) Just keep it down. (slightly disapproves) Of course, Inquisitor.

(flirt) A pretty voice likes yours is no bother at all! Oh, um, I’m, glad it’s alright then.

Further conversation reveals that she really misses playing, and she’s dabbled in a few other instruments. You can offer to find some for her!

Upon accepting the quest, you get a war table mission to procure a harp. Completing it gets a (greatly approves) from Nai’ahvier, and the harp will appear next to her in the garden. From now on, you can request that she play songs for you! You get a chance for a (slightly approves) the first time you listen to each song, and then it goes on the list so you can request it again.

You also get a fetch quest for several other instruments, each of which will get a (slightly approves) and unlock one new song played on that instrument.

Side mission:

If Nai’ahvier is in your party when exploring the Hinterlands, you get an option to spare the mages you fight instead of killing them, in the form of an optional banter response.

Nai’ahvier: Everyone, please, we don’t have to do this!

(1) It’s too late for them, Nai’ahvier. (slightly disapproves)

(2) She’s right, we don’t. (slightly approves)

If you ignore it or choose the first option, the battle continues as normal. If you choose the second option, your companions stop attacking, and as you continue speaking, your enemies stop as well.

(diplomatic) We’re trying to end the war. Nai’ahvier: The Inquisition isn’t here to fight, we want to help!

(sarcastic) We’re not actually here to kill you, honest. Nai’ahvier: The Inquisition is here to end the war, not further it.

(aggressive) Stand down, now. Nai’ahvier: Please listen, we don’t want to hurt you, the Inquisition is here to make peace.

Nai’ahvier: If you surrender we can help you, or even just send you on your way if you don’t trust us. I know you have little reason to, but not long ago I was out here fighting for my life just like you, and the Inquisition gave me another chance. A chance to live free from fear, to spend my time on something other than defending myself and my friends. If you join the Inquisition, we can protect you, and you can help us end this pointless fighting.

> If you want to join or learn more, then go to the Crossroads, and say the Inquisitor sent you. Even if you don’t, we can give you a place to rest and resupply before moving on.

Mage: Thank you. That’s– very generous. We will consider your offer.

(+80 influence)

In subsequent battles, this is shortened to just a few lines.

If you spare at least one group, a few mages will appear at the crossroads with related ambient dialogue.

Cassandra gets a parallel side mission: if she is in your party when fighting Hinterlands templars, she asks you to stop and convince them to surrender. She tells the templars that the Inquisition is taking care of things and keeping the people safe. She swears as a Seeker that standing down now is the right thing. She encourages them to return to their friends and family, but also mentions that joining the Inquisition includes access to lyrium, and a way to make a bigger difference in the fate of the world.

War table quests:

Similar to Sera’s Red Jenny quests and Bull’s Charger/Ben-Hassrath quests, recruiting Nai’ahvier will give you Dalish quests. The majority of them are about problems that Nai’ahvier’s connections made you aware of, some of them are a clan offering to go do something for you, and a few of them are some Dalish asking for help with something.

Companion quest:

Part one:

Once her approval is high enough, Nai’ahvier asks for help locating her twin brother, Nai’sulahn. She hasn’t seen him since she was a kid, and left him in.. less than ideal circumstances. She’s not sure if she wants to see him, but she wants to know if he’s alive. It’s probably impossible to find out, though; he might still be in (city)’s alienage, but he might have left, or he might have... most likely he’s still there!

(?) You might not want to see him? Well, we didn’t along that great as kids.. but you know, we were kids! I’m sure things will go better now.

(?) Aren’t you Dalish? Why would he be in an alienage? Um, life just works in weird ways sometimes, you know? I mean, look at you! Falling out of a rift, becoming the Herald, leading an organization to save the world from an ancient Magister... What a life you’re living.

(diplomatic) I’ll try my best. (approves) Thank you so much, Inquisitor! I appreciate that you’re willing to help, whether it works out or not.

(sarcastic) Sure, what’s one more wild goose chase? (slightly approves) Thank you so much, Inquisitor! If it’s too hard you really don’t have to worry about it, but... I appreciate that you’re willing to help, whether it works out or not.

(aggressive) You want me to use Inquisition resources to track down a long lost relative, when all you can give me is a first name and a place he lived years ago? (disapproves) I’m sorry, you’re right, it’s probably impossible even for Leliana. The Inquisition can’t afford to waste time on personal matters, not just because the Inquisitor asked... I’m sorry for bringing it up!

(flirt) If it’s this important to you, I promise, I’ll do whatever it takes to find him. (approves) I... Thank you, (last name). I really appreciate it.

After the conversation, a war table mission is unlocked. Josephine can ask contacts in the city to ask their contacts and see if anyone’s heard of him, or Leliana can send spies to poke around, which takes less time. Either way, they locate someone who might be him - and express their surprise that Nai’ahvier’s brother is apparently the leader of a crime network. The city, the same one Nai’ahvier mentioned, appears on the map.

Part two:

You arrive in a small but not-too-shabby plaza, on the evening you arranged to meet. After a bit of awkward waiting, one of your companions remarks on Nai’sulahn’s lateness: suspicion from Bull, or a joke about proper narrative timing from Varric, or perhaps a comment on power plays from Vivienne. Finally he arrives, just as the sun starts setting.

Nai’ahvier: There he is! Sulahn, it’s really you!! Nai’sulahn: Nai’ah, I’m glad you’re finally here! Once I heard you made it out of the Circle, I knew you’d be back eventually. You never did do very well without me. Although I didn’t expect the vallaslin! Just like mother’s... perhaps I should have expected it. So, where have you been all these years? Nai’ahvier: Actually, I'm not here to stay or anything, um, I’m actually with the Inquisition now and- Nai’sulahn: Ah yes, the mighty Inquisition. And this is its leader? I didn’t expect to meet you, Inquisitor!

(?) Made it out of the Circle? But aren’t you Dalish? Nai’ahvier: Um, I’ll explain later- Nai’sulahn: Nai’ah! Have you been lying to the Inquisition? Or at least twisting the truth, that way you do. Looks like you never did grow out of fairy tales.

(diplomatic) I’m glad we found you.

(sarcastic) What a reunion!

(aggressive) So, what now?

The conversation continues, with Nai’sulahn explaining how of course she’s going to do the better thing and join him, and how generous he is for making the offer. She can be trouble sometimes, after all - but everyone else is worse, it’s wild out there. With her by his side, he could go so much further with his... enterprises. (A companion might comment on how suspect his “enterprises” are, to which his response is to feign insult and wink - he’s sure the Inquisition will play along, and sure enough, Nai’ahvier reassures that there’s no cause for official action.)

Nai’ahvier's responses vary wildly in tone. Sometimes she goes along with his framing of the conversation, agreeing with him and even volunteering her own support for his arguments, sympathetic and contrite and well-spoken. Sometimes she’s more upset and nervous, trying to correct a fact or protest an assumption- but concedes the point quickly, sometimes before she’s even properly made it. The Inquisitor can step in to support either side, on the occasions that they disagree.

Nai’ahvier: I just wanted to see if you’d.. if you were still... Nai’sulahn: Alive? No thanks to you. Living the sheltered life, not even sparing a thought to send help to your poor brother you left bleeding out in an alley. Nai’ahvier: I did think about you! I did everything I could to convince them to send someone, something, even when it must’ve been far too late, Nai’sulahn: Or did you just do everything you could short of anything that might possibly cause trouble for you?

> What are you talking about? Nai’sulahn: [looks expectantly to his sister] Nai’ahvier: When we, um, parted ways. That is, when I, left for the Circle. It wasn’t exactly the best of circumstances, we had, Nai’sulahn: Can’t even say what you did? Nai’ahvier: I didn’t do anything!! Nai’sulahn: Oh sure, this *points to an old scar curving out from his hairline* was nothing.

(diplomatic) That looks like a nasty scar. Nai’sulahn: It is! You can see why I would have appreciated a little help at the time I got it. Or even better, not being put in that situation in the first place.

(sarcastic) Ok, you know what, I actually don’t need to hear you argue about old family drama. (slightly approves) Nai’ahvier: Let’s not bother the Inquisitor.

(aggressive) Stop interrupting her. (disapproves) Nai’ahvier: It’s ok ser, you don’t have to- Nai’sulahn: As if I’d be able to get a word in otherwise.

Nai’sulahn: Anyway, that’s all ancient history, right? I was angry at you at the time, Nai’ah, but it’s been years. If you’re really sorry, I’m ready to forgive you. Nai’ahvier: You were.. angry at me.... But, you were- I mean, the templars, it wasn’t, Nai’sulahn: Making excuses again? Come on, Nai’ah. Lethallan. Just apologize, and we can move on. Nai’ahvier: ...

(1) Finally, we can be done with this. (2) I hope this fixes things. (3) You don’t need to apologize to him. (4) You need to stop interrupting her.

Part three, if Nai’ahvier apologizes:

(1) You know he’s alive, we did what we came here for, just apologize already so we can leave. (slightly disapproves) Nai’ahvier: Of course, Inquisitor.

(2) It’s a tragedy that you two were apart for so long. I hope you can mend things. (slightly approves) Nai’sulahn: I want to. We never knew our dad, our mom died long ago... we’re the only family we have.

Nai’ahvier: Sulahn, you’re right. I shouldn’t have left you like I did. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have brought down so much trouble on your head, I should have helped you more... I’m grateful you put up with me and my problems for as long as you did. Nai’sulahn: Of course I stuck with you. How could I let lowlife and shems hurt my sister, no matter how much of a liability she was? We’re adults now, though, and things are serious. Such weaknesses matter now more than ever... Nai’ahvier: I never meant to be a weakness. I’m sorry for dragging you down. Every day I regret how things went, I wish I'd never had magic, I wish I’d done better with it, I promise I’ll do better. I’m sorry, I’m so sorry. Nai’sulahn: [sighs] I guess It’s not your fault the world has it out for us. It’s not like you held the templar’s sword yourself. I forgive you. Nai’ahvier: Thank you.

(diplomatic) Maybe you can keep in touch this time.

(sarcastic) Alright, sibling bond restored, what’s next?

(aggressive) Are you done yet? (slightly disapproves)

Nai’sulahn: Actually, Nai’ahvier. I really could use your help. Can you join me? Like old times? Nai’ahvier: I’m sorry, but I’m committed to the Inquisition right now. I’ve learned my lesson and I won’t abandon them. Nai’sulahn: Not forever, surely? [glares at Inquisitor] What did they even do to deserve such devotion? Nai’ahvier: No, not forever.. but without them I wouldn’t have been able to find you. I owe it to them, to stay at least till Corypheus is defeated. But perhaps, after that... Nai’sulahn: I’ll be waiting for you.

As you walk away, Nai’ahvier expresses her relief that it went smoothly, and you get an (approves).

Part three, if Nai’ahvier stands up for herself:

(3) Nai’ahvier, stop. I don’t know what happened exactly, but it seems to me that your brother is the one who should be apologizing. (slightly disapproves) Nai’sulahn: Apologizing for what? How would you know anything, Inquisitor? Nai’ahvier: They know you haven’t listened to a thing I’ve said!

(4) Nai’sulahn, stop. From what I can see, which hasn’t been very much because you keep interrupting her, your sister doesn’t agree with your view of events at all. Shut up and let her speak. (slightly disapproves) Nai’sulahn: But she- (a companion): The Inquisitor said stop. Nai’sulahn: Fine. So, Nai’ah, what do you have to say to me that’s oh so important?

Nai’ahvier: I didn’t really want to say anything to you, I just wanted to see if you were alive! But I guess since I’m here, I do have something to say! I never asked for your help. You always say it’s my fault when you get hurt helping me, but I never asked! I- Nai’sulahn: Please, as if-

> Stop interrupting.

Nai’ahvier: Thank you, Inquisitor. Sulahn, I got hurt helping you as well! We were knife-ear orphans, we both got hurt all the time, and it’s not either of our faults! You were always picking fights, but I never held it against you, I just tried to get you out them. Half of the times I got in trouble, it was because I was trying to get you out of worse! Nai’sulahn: Well I didn’t ask you to help me either. Nai’ahvier: Yes you did! Or as good as! If I didn’t, you- Nai’sulahn: How could you blame me-

> I said stop interrupting. (slightly approves) Nai’sulahn: [glares but then silently folds his arms, looking away]

Nai’ahvier: I’m not blaming you, but it’s not my fault either! It’s not my fault I have magic, it’s not my fault the templars attacked, it’s not my fault you tried to stop them! I didn’t ask for your protection then, and I’m sorry that I ever did, it’s not worth much when you bring just as much pain as you save me from! I helped you more than you ever helped me, and I helped you with worse things, why would I be here to help you again! I just wanted to know if I had any family left alive!! I’m sorry you got hurt, I’m sorry, I spent my entire childhood trying to stop that from happening, I could have left you to get yourself killed so many times, but I didn’t, I never would have if I had any choice, I would have died for you just like Mamae did- Nai’sulahn: Don’t you dare say it was- Nai’ahvier: And it’s not my fault the templars didn’t listen to me when I begged for them to stop, to go back, when I offered my own life if they’d just leave you be, promised I’d do whatever they wanted if they saved you, I tried, I tried!!! I’m sorry they wouldn’t let me die for you! And I’m sorry, but I’m not going to stick around to try again! Nai’sulahn: As if you could do anything better than- Nai’ahvier: [sobbing] Stop it!

(diplomatic) I don’t think this is going to go anywhere.

(sarcastic) Someone doesn’t know how to take a hint.

(aggressive) Do I need to shut you up more permanently?

Nai’ahvier: I’m done anyway. I don’t want to be around him anymore. Nai’sulahn: [opens his mouth] (All companions): [take threatening stances]

(diplomatic) Let’s go.

(sarcastic) And there’s your cue to leave. I suggest you take it.

(aggressive) [punch him] (disapproves)

Nai’sulahn: [spits on the ground, turns and leaves]

Nai’ahvier stands there for a bit, composing herself, and then apologizes for her brother’s behavior and thanks you for giving her a chance to speak. She seems rather shocked at herself and unsure how to feel. You get an (approves).

Part four, if Nai’ahvier apologizes:

After returning to Skyhold, you find Nai’ahvier waiting in the throne room, outside your door.

Inquisitor, I’m sorry if I’m bothering you, but I thought that if you wanted to speak to me about our journey, it’d be better not to do it in the garden. Perhaps in your hallway here?

> Sure.

I just wanted to thank you for helping me find my brother, and apologize for dragging you into our business. And explain, although I’m not sure what all you want to know, or where to start.

(?) You’re not Dalish? I’m not exactly not Dalish, but I may have- I purposefully led you to believe I’m more Dalish than I am. My parents are of Clan Enasalin, but my mother left my father and her entire clan before my brother and I were born. We grew up in an alienage. I did spend the last half a dozen years with Clan Alerion, my Vallaslin are truly earned, I did not lie when I said I could help you, but.. I exaggerated my qualifications, which is as good as lying. I’m sorry. I should have told you from the beginning. I understand if you don’t want to keep me in your services anymore. (?) I heard something about a Circle as well? I tried to keep my magic secret, but the templars found me using it to keep warm in the winter. I spent the years between childhood and adulthood in the Circle. When I got away, I asked Clan Alerion if I could join them, since that was the clan my mother was originally from. They had room for a mage, so they took me in, for my mother’s sake.

(diplomatic) Everyone has their secrets. I forgive you. (approves) Thank you, Inquisitor.

(sarcastic) No harm no foul, right? You’ve done your job. (slightly approves) I promise to continue doing what needs to be done. I won’t let you down, Ser.

(aggressive) I can’t have my companions lying to me about the very thing I brought them in to do. I’m so sorry, Ser. I’ll do anything I can to make it up to you.

(flirt) Don’t worry about it. I’m just glad you trust me enough to tell me the truth now. (slightly approves) Of course I do.

(?) What exactly were you apologizing for? I got some of it, but it was a bit confusing. He was attacked by templars. It was my fault; they were going after me, and he was in their way. I told them I’d go quietly if they left him alone, I tried to convince them to let me do what I could to save him, but my offers weren’t good enough. I left him for dead in an alley, just like my mother. (?) Your mother? She... She died protecting us from drunk, angry humans. Things got out of hand. We were just kids. We couldn’t do anything to help her.

(diplomatic) You tried your best. It’s not your fault. (slightly approves) If you say so, Inquisitor.

(sarcastic) In your defense, if you’d helped more, you probably would have died too. (slightly disapproves) Or maybe my magic could have done some good for once.

(aggressive) What’s done is done. Exactly. There’s nothing I can do but try to do make things better with my brother.

(?) You’re going to go back to him, after this is all done? He asked. It’s better to go along with his plans than to try to argue. And I wouldn’t want anything bad to happen to him because I’m not there; it’s the least I can do.

Again, thank you so much for helping me find him, Inquisitor. I know it was a big thing to ask, but I’ve been worrying about him all this time... I’m so glad to know he survived. Hopefully we’ll get along better now... Thank you for giving me the chance to apologize. (slightly approves)

Part four, if Nai’ahvier stands up for herself:

After returning to Skyhold, you find Nai’ahvier waiting in the throne room, outside your door.

Inquisitor, I figure I owe you a bit of an explanation, and was hoping it could happen somewhere a bit more private than the gardens. Perhaps in your hallway here?

> Sure.

Thank you so much for helping me find my brother. It.. didn’t go exactly as I hoped, but I suppose I should have known better. He’s always been like that. I usually don’t argue with him so much, though... We always had to work together, and it was easier to try to mitigate the damage than to tell him he was wrong. He was never scared of anything.. I’m surprised you managed to get him to back down so easily. Anyway, um, I’m not sure where to start..?

(?) You’re not Dalish? Yeah, I.. didn’t exactly tell the whole truth. My mother was originally Dalish, and I joined her old clan once I had the chance, but my brother and I grew up in an alienage. I was desperate to help the Inquisition, so I exaggerated my standing among the clans, hoping my diplomacy skills would be enough... And they really did like me well enough, even if I didn’t grow up with them. I apologize for not telling the whole truth. (?) I heard something about a Circle as well? My mother taught me to keep my magic secret, but I often used it to help my brother... I was keeping us warm on a bad winter night when the templars found us. So, I spent the years between childhood and adulthood in the Circle. When I managed to escape, I went looking for Clan Alerion... My mother had always been planning to bring us there, once we were in a good position to make the journey. We just.. never quite were.

(diplomatic) Everyone has their secrets. Don’t worry about it. (slightly approves) I suppose there are worse things not to tell.

(sarcastic) No harm no foul, right? You’ve done your job. (approves) And I’ll keep doing it, best I can!

(aggressive) I can’t have my companions lying to me about the very thing I brought them in to do. You’re right. I’ll do my best to make up for it.

(flirt) I’m glad you trust me enough to tell me the truth now. (approves) I just... don’t like thinking about my past, I guess. It’s easier to pretend.... But I can’t make it go away by ignoring it.

(?) What exactly did he want you to apologize for? I got some of it, but it was a bit confusing. When the templars found me doing magic, he tried to defend me. It only took them one blow to stop him. He’d always reassured me that he’d protect me from the templars... and the shems, and starvation, and everything else, if only I stayed with him and helped him in return.... It was comforting, pretending he could do something about any of that. When it came down to it, it was obvious he couldn’t, but he never was good at weighing the odds. I told him to stop, but he wasn’t good at listening either, not when I was saying something that contradicted his view of himself. The last thing I saw was him bleeding out, just like my mother...  (?) You said she died for him. You know how I said he was bad at weighing the odds? One time when we were walking home at night, some drunk shems made a rude comment, and he didn’t take it very well. I ran for Mamae, because she could fix anything, right? And sure enough, she won him a chance to escape. But facing a full-grown mage defending her children is different than teaching a bratty knife-ear a quick lesson. Weapons were drawn, and they had a whole group and she was all alone, she’d told us to run, she was down by the time we’d turned the corner. But she’d be okay, right? Mamae could fix anything. But she never came home. Nai’sulahn always said that he could’ve handled it, and if I hadn’t brought Mamae into it, then...

(diplomatic) I’m so sorry. That’s awful. (slightly approves) [smiles sadly] Isn’t it.

(sarcastic) He wanted you to apologize for that? (approves) That and everything else that ever went wrong in his life. He could always find a way to blame me for anything...

(aggressive) Kids make mistakes. No matter how much I regret how things went, there’s nothing I can do about it now. Who knows if there was anything else I could have done back then, either.

(?) He wanted you to join him again? Of course. I was rather good at keeping him out of trouble, no matter how much he claims it’s the opposite. He’s just so dumb sometimes, and he won’t take advice, I always had to be so subtle about it.. (?) Will you ever go back to him? No. I hope not. Maybe if he... No. I don’t want to be stuck cleaning up his messes for the rest of my life.

Again, thank you so much for helping me find him. He’ll probably go on thinking the same things he always has, but at least now that’s on him for not listening, rather than me for not speaking up. Thank you for giving me the chance. (greatly approves)

Post-quest cards:

(if she apologized)

(if she stood up for herself)

Relationships:

Varric - Nai’ahvier reminds him of Merrill. He looks out for her in a similar way, and tells her stories, trying to stick to the happy ones. Nai’ahvier loves his stories and thinks Merrill sounds very cool: the savior of Dalish traditions, the protector of the Kirkwall alienage! At first Nai’ahvier gets a bit suspicious when Varric goes out of his way to help her, but more and more she trusts him. She really likes hanging out with him and will go to him for advice/comfort!

Sera - They disagree on everything, but those different opinions come from similar places. They were both hurt elven kids in the city, but Sera responded by trying to fit in with the humans, while Nai’ahvier ran away to the Dalish; Sera decided not to care what people think, while Nai’ahvier tried ever-harder to please them; Sera is scared of magic, while Nai’ahvier is scared of what people will do to her because of her magic. This makes it hard not to sympathize, at the same the time that it makes agreement impossible

Since arguments between the two often end with both feeling justifiably angry and guilty, they try to avoid them. Instead, they help each other where they can. Sera teaches Nai’ahvier how to not be so worried about what people think, mostly by dragging her into pranks and forcing her to face the not-actually-that-bad consequences. Nai’ahvier helps fast-talk Sera out of trouble – and quietly shows that being elfy isn’t so bad, while easily accepting that Sera doesn’t want to be elfy herself.

Cole - Nai’ahvier is a bit wary of him at first, as the Circle teaches, but soon believes that he really just wants to help, which is definitely something she can get behind. Then she’s worried for him, and will try to change the subject / diffuse the situation / perhaps even defend him, when other companions are rude to him. They can often be found plotting out ways to help, combining Cole's knowledge and Nai’ahvier’s people skills. If he becomes more human, she’s a bit worried that he won’t be as Compassionate, and if he becomes more spirit, she’s a bit sad that he’s forgetting things, but otherwise she’s pretty supportive either way.

A few times when Nai’ahvier’s uncomfortable/scared/guilty, Cole interrupts a conversation to say so – how else will they know to change what they say? – but stops when that makes her more upset. Sometimes he brings up thoughts about her brother or her time in the Circle, which occasionally gets honest responses, but most often ends quickly as Nai’ahvier changes the subject with desperate cheer. She mostly blames herself for being upset rather than him for bringing it up, but she does get mad at him when his interruptions mess up any careful diplomacy.

Blackwall - Initially, they think well enough of each other but don’t have much in common (or in conflict) to talk about. Blackwall makes awkward small talk best he can, Nai’ahvier makes it less awkward best she can. After their respective quests, they get closer: Blackwall’s reveal leads to Nai’ahvier trying to reassure him that it’s ok if he messed up, he’s doing his best now and that’s worth something and she still likes him. Nai’ahvier’s quest leads to Blackwall dad-ing her a bit (or more than a bit); if she apologized, he worries about her and tries to look out for her, and if she stood up for herself, he’s proud of her.

Cassandra - As a human almost-templar, she scares Nai’ahvier, who never starts conversations with her and tries to end them as quickly and politely as possible. Cassandra is a bit hurt and alternates between trying to convince her that templars aren’t that bad in general and that Cassandra isn’t that bad individually. This doesn’t help. After Cassandra’s had her bit of crisis-of-faith over corruption in the Seekers, she apologizes and says she won’t try to defend them anymore. If she’s going to rebuild them she asks Nai’ahvier for advice, and if she isn’t, she admits Nai’ahvier was right. Either way, they’re still not really friends, but now they can have actual conversations.

Iron Bull - Bull is strong and intimidating but nonhuman and kind, so Nai’ahvier latches onto him as a protector, and Nai’ahvier is sweet and tiny and has been through too much, so Bull is happy to step into the role. They discuss pretty flowers and floofy dresses, and they defend each other, and Bull teases Nai’ahvier about her crush on Krem.

If Bull leaves the Qun, she’s quick to remind him that he’s still good and has always been good. If he sacrifices the Chargers, she totally cuts him off, because ironically she likes him enough to let him know she doesn’t like him. She either breaks the silent-except-for-professional-communication treatment once for some distraught lecture-yelling, or forgives him eventually, depending on the outcome of her own quest. And no matter all the choices, Bull keeps trying to look out for her.

Solas - Solas lectures Nai’ahvier a lot. He’s glad to have someone who will listen and nod and tell him how great he is! Nai’ahvier appreciates the guidance and stories sometimes, but appreciates less how he always makes her feel lowkey or even highkey guilty about everything. She keeps talking to him though, because it’s easy to make him happy, and he sets himself up as the kind of person you want to make sure is happy with you.

Vivienne - Familiar with the politicking of Circles and the importance of cultivated reputations, Nai’ahvier quickly recognizes how Vivienne wants to be feared. Likewise, Vivienne recognizes when Nai’ahvier’s affability and cheerfulness is artificial, and why. They get along well, then, with both happy to help the other appear as they wish (not to mention with both genuinely reacting the way the other wants).

Vivienne tries to convince Nai’ahvier of her politics, saying that her skills would serve her better in a controlled, sheltered system than out in the streets. Before her quest, Nai’ahvier squeaks out agreements. Vivienne can tell she doesn’t believe it, but isn’t too put out by it. If Nai’ahvier apologizes in her quest, she starts agreeing more genuinely, but in a way that’s a bit worrying. Vivienne’s triumph is short-lived, and she starts trying to bait Nai’ahvier into her old opinions despite herself. If Nai’ahvier stands up for herself, she instead starts arguing back against Vivienne, who's annoyed at the new lack of wary deference.

Dorian - Dorian means well and is easy to please, so Nai’ahvier gets along with him very well. He gives her tips on magical theory, and they discuss the importance of good aesthetics and warm weather, and she tells him about the Dalish and the Ferelden Circles. Sometimes they talk politics, with Dorian filling in some gaps in Nai’ahvier’s theoretical knowledge, and her filling in some gaps in his privileged view of the world. They bond even more over the similar decision they have to make in their quests – They support each other’s choice, whichever way it goes, and commiserate about the problems of family and forgiveness.

Leliana - Though Nai’ahvier doesn’t dislike her, exactly, she’s definitely a bit wary of the human spymaster. Leliana does nothing to dissuade that, feeling like the sweet girl would be better off far away from the deceit and violence of Leliana’s life. She knows Nai’ahvier isn’t as naïve as she appears, but... better to leave her to her pretend innocence.

Cullen - Being a (former) templar would be bad enough, but Cullen’s history and reputation in particular are enough to send Nai’ahvier into a panic. She avoids him as much as she can, and acts extremely polite and deferential when she can’t. Cullen is pleasantly surprised that she’s so agreeable at first, but soon starts feeling like something’s off. He gets a bit frustrated, and then a bit horrified, as he figures out how scared she is. He pushes aside his guilt enough to ask Josephine for advice on how to fix things, pushes aside his pride enough to admit she’s right and he can’t, and from then on, does his best to aid Nai’ahvier in her quest to never be in the same room as him.

Josephine - They work together in their roles as diplomats: Josephine giving Nai’ahvier tips, Nai’ahvier helping Josephine host dinners, both of them discussing people and places and plans. They’re very fond of each other, as colleagues and as friends! If you mess with Nai’ahver, Josephine will make your life hell. Luckily people don’t do that much on purpose (as Josie is not the only one to feel this way), but woe to the newcomer who calls Nai’ahvier a knife-ear or the clueless templar who doesn’t back off.

Approval:

Approves of:

Being a mage

Recruiting the mages, especially as allies

Leading the Inquisition for order, or what’s right, or as a mage or elf

Putting Briala in charge, through Gaspard or with all three of them

Doing the rituals in the temple of Mythal, and allying with Abelas

Supporting the Dalish

Supporting mage freedom

Diplomatic/clever responses

Being supportive and friendly when speaking to her

Asking for her opinion

Collecting a new type of plant with her in the party

Disapproves of:

Being a human

Killing rebel mages in the Hinterlands

Recruiting the templars, especially as allies

Leading the Inquisition for faith or personal gain or vengeance

Getting Briala and Celene back together, or Gaspard/Celene ruling alone

Banishing the Wardens

Letting Morrigan drink from the well

Sacrificing the Chargers

Supporting Circles

Supporting the Chantry

Harsh judgements, especially tranquility

Rude/inappropriate responses in tense situations

Ordering people around, insults, or taking contributions for granted

Choosing the templar specialization

Greetings:

Pre-quest:

Good morning, Herald/Inquisitor!

*humming*- Oh, Herald/Inquisitor, I’m so sorry, I didn’t see you there!

Lord/Lady (last name), how can I help you?

Did you need something, ser?

(Although if you’ve expressed displeasure at honorifics/titles, she’ll drop them.)

Stood up for herself, high approval:

Good morning!

*humming*- Oh, (last name)! Hello!

What’s going on?

*playing harp* Hey, do you think that last bit sounded ok?

(if you get the last one, you get options to say it was great or it needs work, or you can go straight to other topics)

Stood up for herself, medium approval:

Same as pre-quest.

Stood up for herself, low approval:

What do you need from me?

Inquisitor.

Make it quick, please.

Apologized, high/medium approval:

Same as pre-quest.

Apologized, medium/low approval:

Lord/Lady Inquisitor, ser!

(alternatively) Lo- Ser- (last name)!

Lord/Lady Inquisitor, please let me know if there’s anything I can do to help!

Approval is too low, pre-quest or if Nai’ahvier apologized:

She’s just gone. She isn’t in the garden, her party selection card is greyed out, and her equipment is in the storage chest at Undercroft. You can ask each companion if they know where she’s off to.

Varric: Sorry your Inquisitorialness, but if that was a story Hummingbird wanted to tell, I think she already would have.

Sera: Why’re you askin? The high and mighty Herald is a bit above the likes of her, yeah? That’s what I heard.

Cole: Worried, wandering, wondering, what if I made the wrong choice? No, I know I did, nothing to do but not do it more.

Blackwall (before his quest): She’ll show up if she wants to.

Blackwall (after his quest): Have you checked the jails of Orlais?

Cassandra: I’ve been wondering as well; the walk to the Chantry is quieter without her singing.

Iron Bull (if chargers were sacrificed): [sighs] She’s gotten rather skilled at avoiding me, Boss. I couldn’t tell you more than anyone else.

Iron Bull (otherwise): I’ve been looking around, and so have my Chargers. There’s no trace.

Krem: I've got nothing to say, Inquisitor. 

Solas: Our paths don’t often cross. I will let you know if I discover anything.

Vivienne: She’s run off? A shame.

Dorian: I did notice that she hasn’t been by recently. Perhaps she doesn’t want to be found?

Josephine: She informed me she wouldn’t be able to make a few diplomatic meetings; I’d assumed she was on an errand for you?

Cullen: Ha, as if I would know. That girl avoids me like the plague.

Leliana: Of course I've been keeping tabs on her. I strongly suggest, however, that you stop trying to find her. She seemed unhappy with the Inquisition’s actions and atmosphere, and wouldn’t want to be bothered.

(diplomatic) I wish she’d said something. Leliana: I wish she hadn’t felt like she needed to leave.

(sarcastic) So we’re letting a member of the Inquisition’s inner circle just disappear without a word? Leliana: Yes.

(aggressive) I need to know what she’s doing and why she left. Leliana: She would not want you to know. > I’m the Inquisitor. Tell me where she is. Leliana: I will not. I will tell you that this kind of reaction is likely why she didn’t talk to you about leaving in the first place.

After you’ve spoken to Leliana, the options to ask anyone are gone.

Approval is too low, if Nai’ahvier stood up for herself:

She confronts you as you enter skyhold.

Inquisitor. I have something to say.

> What is it?

I joined the Inquisition to do good, so I could be part of a greater cause, but you haven’t been doing much good at all. (if you sided with the Templars) You left the very mages I was trying to protect to be enslaved by the Venatori. You’ve killed many of them yourself. (if you've punished anyone with tranquility) You’ve set precedent that tranquility is a reasonable way to stop mages who have wronged you, when it should be seen as a heinous breach of rights that is never warranted. Once you’ve said it’s an acceptable punishment at all, where will you draw the line? And how much lower, then, will others draw it? (if you sacrificed the chargers) You told The Iron Bull to watch all his men die, when he could have easily saved them. They trusted him. He trusted you. I know sometimes you have to make tough choices, I know sometimes people die, but Krem didn’t have to be one of them! (if you didn’t do any of the preceding) You’re rude and selfish and mean and you lead your followers in awful directions. You’re exactly the kind of person I never wanted to have to tiptoe around again. (if you’re a human) I should have known better than to trust a shem. (if you’re a qunari mage or an elf or you romanced her) I thought I could trust you, but I was wrong.

I don’t want to be a part of the things you’re doing anymore. You don’t deserve the Dalish’s support, and you don’t deserve my support. I have friends here in the Inquisition, but you’re not one of them, so I’m not going to act like it anymore.

(special - if romanced) I’m.. not your friend? I tried to forgive you, again and again. But I’m sick of making excuses for why my so-called loved-ones don’t seem to care about how I feel about what they’re doing. I’m not going to follow you around, desperately trying to fix your mistakes, not this time.

(stoic) What are you going to do instead, then.

(confused) This is so sudden, where is this coming from? It’s not my fault you don’t pay attention to your followers’ opinions of your leadership.

(sad) Are you going to leave?

(angry) Get out, then. Of course, Oh Mighty Inquisitor. (the rest of the conversation is skipped)

I wish I hadn’t joined at all, I should have stayed in the Hinterlands helping the mages, but it’s too late to go back to that. It’s too late for them. Corypheus does still need to be stopped, and not everyone here is as awful as you, so I’m willing to stay for a time for their sake. I’ll fight against Corypheus, but I won’t help you or the Inquisition with anything else, and if that means I have to leave, I’m okay with that too.

(1) I need all the help I can get. A good choice, for once.

(2) If you don’t support me, I don’t want you here. Fair enough. I hope I never see you again.

If you tell her to stay, she’s still in the garden, but you won’t get the Dalish war table missions anymore, and you won’t be able to put her in your party unless you’re facing Corypheus. If you tell her to leave, you still get her equipment back, because she’s polite like that.

Romance:

Orientation:

Nai’ahvier is bi and ace. You might figure out her orientation from her banter, especially with Cole, Sera, or Bull, but banter of course depends on who you bring with you, and some of it’s more subtle, so you might not.

Humans are locked out of her romance, mostly. Noble Trevelyan the human Inquisitor is just a bit too much for her!

Flirting:

Flirting with Nai’ahvier mostly involves being complementary, understanding, appreciative, and funny. Sometimes she responds with polite grace, but sometimes she’s more touched and flustered. (Or if you’re human, she’s wary and tries to deflect and change the subject.)

There are a few examples throughout the scenes I’ve written, but here are some more:

>Nai’ahvier? I’m so sorry, I didn’t notice you there, Inquisitor!

(flirt) Don’t worry about it, you’re cute when you’re concentrating. Oh! Um, I, >You’re cute when you’re flustered, too. Th- thank you, you, you’re also, um, that is,, Oh, Creators.

>Thanks for your help! It’s no problem, Inquisitor.

(flirt) I mean it; I don’t know what I’d do without you. (if non-human) (slightly approves) That’s... I mean it too, it’s no problem, (last name). I like helping you. (if human) I’m sure you’d do fine, Ser. You’re very competent. I’m glad I can help the Inquisition though, in my own little way.

Starting the romance:

After you’ve completed her quest, you get the option to approach her to start a romance.

(flirt) I really like you. You.. like me? >You’re kind and cute and I love being around you. (slightly approves) (Last name)... >I’d like to be around you more, if you want. Are you, um, do you mean that the way I think you do? That depends, are you thinking that I mean it the way that I do mean it? [blushing and flustered] Come on, that’s no answer!

(<3) I like you, and I want to hold your hand and listen to you sing and tell you romantic things that make you blush. That’s how I mean it. (if nonhuman + high approval + either quest end) Oh, Mythal, I’d thought maybe, but what if I just, but now you..! Really? I mean, yes, that is what I want, I. I like you too. I’d like that too. (if nonhuman + low approval + either quest end) (if nonhuman + medium approval + stood up for herself) Oh Mythal, I.. I’m sorry, you’re great, but the world’s so hectic right now, I think I’m not quite ready for that? I need some time to think about it... I’m sorry! (if human + any approval + stood up for herself) Wow, I’m, I’m honored, but.. we’re in the middle of a war, and you’re Inquisitor and it just wouldn’t be appropriate! I’m sorry. You’re great, but.. I don’t. think we could do that. (if nonhuman + medium approval + apologized) (if human + any approval + apologized) I... I’m honored. I want that as well. You’re great, Inquisitor, I’d love to spend more time with you.

If she tells you you need more time, you can keep asking.

(<3) So.. have you thought about what I asked you? (if approval is still too low) A little, but, uh... Not enough? I’m sorry. (if approval has been raised enough) Actually, I.. I have. and. I think I’d like that too, the- the things you said. So, um, yes? To, um.. Creators, sorry, I’m not making sense, I mean. I think I like you too!

Romance cards:

(if she apologized)

(if she stood up for herself)

Companion Comments:

Next time you talk to Josie after you’ve started the romance, a cutscene is triggered.

Inquisitor! Could I speak to you for a moment? > Of course. What is it? I’ve noticed you spending more time with our lovely Dalish Ambassador. Are the rumors true? Are you two involved?

(diplomatic) Yes. I’m quite fond of her, and it turns out she’s fond of me too.

(sarcastic) That’s one way to put it.

(aggressive) What business is it of yours if we are? [gives a Look] > ...We are.

I only ask because, she can be rather.. overly accommodating. (if Nai’ahvier apologized) She’s very good at filling the roles that other people want her to. She says what they want to hear, especially if they have power, as you do, Inquisitor. If you two have disagreements, which all people eventually do, she may be afraid to speak her mind. You must be careful not to pressure her. I worry that she is doing what she knows you want, rather than what she wants. (if Nai’ahvier stood up for herself) She’s been doing better at speaking up, and you helped her with that, for which I’m glad. However, she still sometimes puts the needs of others above her own. If you want a successful relationship, you must keep that in mind, and be careful not to pressure her.

She is dear to many of us in Skyhold; we would hate to see her hurt. I hope she proves my worry misplaced, and I hope you prove it unneeded.

A few other people around Skyhold have comments as well:

Krem: So, you and Nai’ahvier, eh? Quite a catch you’ve got there, Your Worship. She’s real sweet. The Chargers are fond of her, so try to keep her safe, alright?

Sera (if Nai’ahvier apologized): Elfy girl’s a bit of a push-over, yeah? And if you pushed her over, pchewwww splat, she’d go down right hard. You say dive, she says how deep, won’t even check first to see if there’s pointy rocks at the bottom, ya know? So, don’t.

Ideally that’s all you’ll get, but just in case, a fair amount of the inner circle has a shovel talk ready. The lower your approval with Nai’ahvier is, the more of them you get, starting with the companions who like you the least.

(If you get very low, as in a few slightly disapproves from Nai’ahvier leaving the Inquisition altogether, Josephine confronts you again, and warns you as a diplomat and a friend that you really need to break up with Nai’ahvier: she’s obviously unhappy, but unwilling to speak up about it.)

Romance Quest:

You arrive in the garden, and stop for a bit to listen to Nai’ahvier’s song. It’s not really a whole song today, though; she’s tapping the side of her harp absentmindedly as she stares into space and hums the same line over and over, each time tacking another few notes onto the end and then trailing off in frustration.

(diplomatic) Are you composing something? Remembering something, actually.

(sarcastic) Forget the end, did you? [sighs] More like the entire song.

(aggressive) [wave a hand in front of her face] Oh, (last name)! Sorry, not much of a performance today. Just trying to remember something...

>What song is that?

Some Dalish love song, I don’t even know the name. It might have to do with flowers? My mom used to sing it a lot, but unlike most of her lullabies, I never heard it in Clan Alerion... It must be a favorite of hers that's out of style or something. I know it starts out like Ahh hmhmm hmm hmhmmmm, hmmmm hmmm hm..... but that’s it. I wish I remembered the words.

You get a quest to go ask the Dalish of the Exalted Plains about the song, or if you’re Lavellan and your clan is alive, you can have Josephine send them a message instead. Either way, no one has heard of it, but they recommend that you ask a certain music-lover they remember from a clan meet.

You get a war table mission to locate the Dalish musician. Turns out they do know the song, and they teach it to you! They tell you that a girl wrote it for her sweetheart a few generations back, and mostly only her family knows it.

Next time you talk to Nai’ahvier, you tell her you have a song for her this time, and she settles down cheerfully to listen.

Ar dirthara, ma’arlath Whenever life is troubling you

Her eyes widen as she recognizes it.

Ar dirthara, our light Whenever times are dark-

She starts sobbing, and you cut yourself off in worry.

(diplomatic) Nai’ahvier? Is everything alright?? Yes, I’m, I just,

(sarcastic) I didn’t think my singing was that bad. [laugh sob]

(aggressive) I... don’t suppose that’s happy crying? I, yes, or, mostly it is, I just,

I thought I’d, never hear that song again, I’d, forgotten, and I’m, I promise I’m, so glad, to hear it, but also, it’s so... I haven’t heard it in so long I just, remember it in Mamae’s voice, and, I miss her, but I, think she’d, be happy, that you, that I have you, here, that you can, sing it for me, since she- can’t, and, I, you, how hard was it to find, just for, just for me, thank you, I, thank you,

You step forward, hand outstretched but hovering, unsure what kind of comfort to give. She launches herself into your arms and cries on your shoulder. You hug her tight, till she eventually steps back a bit, wiping at her eyes. She smiles through the remaining tears, then leans forward - pauses for your nod - and gives you a quick kiss.

She asks quietly if you could start the song again, since she interrupted. The cutscene ends with both of you sitting in the garden side by side, leaning into each other, a fond look on your face as you sing, a wavery smile on Nai’ahvier’s as she listens.

Ar Dirthara is added to the list of songs you can request from her. The first time you ask her to play it, she explains to a non-elven inquisitor that “ar dirthera” is the name of a flower meaning “know of me / remember me”, similar to the human Forget-Me-Not. To an elven inquisitor, she remarks upon how ironic it is to have forgotten a song about remembering, conveying the same information to the player.

Next scene:

You’re winding down in your room after a long day. Nai’ahvier knocks, then enters, bearing a report she meant to get to you earlier. She hesitates after the official conversation is over, though.

Could I.. stay for a bit?

(diplomatic) You’re always welcome. (slightly approves) [smiles] Oh, good.

(sarcastic) I hope you don’t have more reports. [giggles] Nope, that was it. And, even that one was, um, actually more of an excuse.

(aggressive) Why? (if she apologized) You’re always so busy.. I thought it might be nice if I came to you, for once. (if she stood up for herself) Actually, um.. it’s silly, I just. I don’t.. want to cross Skyhold again quite yet, because, the templars are out doing something tonight? And there’s nowhere I’d rather be than with you, anyway!

You invite her to join you where you’re sitting on the edge of your bed. You talk some, and then there’s a natural lull in the conversation as you look at each other, and you ask...

> May I kiss you?

She nods. You reach to touch the side of her face, brushing her hair back. She closes her eyes. You kiss her.

She hesitantly rests her hand on your hip for a moment, before pulling back, breaking the kiss.

Could we... could we talk about something for a moment?

(diplomatic) Of course.

(sarcastic) Now? (slightly disapproves) (if she apologized) I’m sorry, but it’s um, kind of relevant. (if she stood up for herself) Yes.

(aggressive) What?

I, um. I thought I should tell you, before um, you.. That is..... [covers face with hands] Sorry, sorry, give me a second.

> ...

> You thought you should tell me about..?

About, that.. I don’t want to have sex. With you, or, with anyone. Ever.

(?) Why not? I’m just... not interested in it, it seems... really gross and not so good? I would never think about it, if other people didn’t talk about it so much, and when I do it’s just. I just don’t get it. It’s not for me.

(?) You don’t want me? I... I want to talk to you and hold your hand and say sappy things and, maybe kiss you more, but I. I don’t. want you that way, no. I’m sorry.

(?) Have you at least given it a try? (slightly disapproves) No. I don’t plan to.

(diplomatic) I’m glad you felt like you could tell me this.

(sarcastic) Well, this isn’t what I was expecting from tonight.

(aggressive) Alright.

So, um, I just thought I should tell you. So you aren’t.. expecting anything. If you, want to break it off over this, um, it’s ok, I understand. Just.. let me know.

(1) I guess this won’t work out. (2) But sex is great! Especially with me. (3) I don’t want to break up, but... (4) This doesn’t change anything.

(1) Well. It seems we’re both looking for different things in a relationship. I guess this isn’t going to work out.

Oh.

(diplomatic) I’m really sorry. It’s fine.

(sarcastic) Nothing personal, yeah? Of course.

(aggressive) That it’s, then. I’m sorry for leading you on.

I’ll just take my leave, then. Thank you for understanding. I hope you find someone who can give you what you need.

</3

(2) How can you know for sure if you haven’t done it? I promise I’ll make it good.

(if she apologized) (greatly disapproves) until her approval is at zero I. I’m sure you would. You’re right, maybe I should think about it more. Or less. Thank you for talking with me about this. It’s getting late and I promised to meet with Bull tonight so I have to go, but I’ll see you soon. (She leaves the Inquisition, as previously described, except that Bull’s answer changes to “No offense, but fuck off, Boss.”)

(if she stood up for herself) (greatly disapproves) I don’t have to set you on fire right now for you to know if you want me to, and I’d guess you don’t. And while I’m tempted about the fire, I’m sure about the sex. Thanks for the clear answer, I guess. See you around, Inquisitor.

</3

(3) I'd never want you to do something you don’t want to, but I really don’t know if I can commit to celibacy for the foreseeable future.. I don’t want to leave you, but I just...

I, um, I wouldn’t mind if you, that is, um. You.. don’t have to commit to celibacy? I don’t want to have sex, but, I get that most people do, and, I don’t want to leave you either, so, um...

> You’re... giving me permission to sleep with other people?

Y es? I. really don’t mind. I want you to be happy. Just.. try not to fall in love with them?

(<3) We might have to discuss some more specifics, but, if you’re sure you’re ok with it then.. that could work. I want to make this work. (approves) Oh good. I really, really want this to work, too.

(</3) I don’t think it would work. We should end this here. Alright. That makes sense. I hope you find someone who can give you what you need.

(4) Don’t worry about it. This doesn’t change anything.

(approves) Really? You... You’re sure?

(diplomatic) Of course. I love you just how you are. (slightly approves)

(sarcastic) You already give me flowers and blush when I compliment you, what more could I want? (slightly approves)

(aggressive) I’d never want anything from you that you don’t want to give. Never. (approves)

I.. I never thought..... I’m so, I don’t know what to say, I. I’m so happy.

> That’s all I want.

Conversation topics:

After you start dating, there are a few more options when you speak to her.

Repeatable scene:

(flirt) Can I join you? Of course, (last name)! (or, after the romance is confirmed) Always, Ma’arlath.

You wander around the garden a bit, chatting indistinctly, pausing as Nai’ahvier crouches to pick a flower, or cast a spell on a wilting plant. Then you both settle on the bench near her harp, and comfortable silence (cut by the background murmur of the garden) falls. She weaves the flowers into a crown, as you admire the scenery, and her.

After the cutscene, you both have flower crowns equipped. They do nothing, and disappear when removed or when you leave skyhold.

Breaking up:

(</3) I think this isn’t working out. We should break up. (if she apologized)

You.. You don’t... want to be with me anymore? I’m, I’m sorry, what did I do wrong?

(diplomatic) I want you to be happy, and you just didn’t seem happy with me. I’m the one in the wrong, not you. (if low/medium approval) (greatly approves) I’m sorry that I couldn’t make it work. You didn’t do anything wrong, I’m just... not ready for this, I guess. Thank you for thinking of my happiness. I don’t deserve someone like you. (if high approval) (slightly approves) ... Of course, Inquisitor. Thank you for thinking of me. I hope we can remain friends as we find our happiness elsewhere. I hope you find someone who returns your love as you deserve.

(sarcastic) This just doesn’t seem to be the best thing for either of us. It was fun, but it wasn’t going anywhere. I’m sorry that I couldn’t make it work. I hope you find something that goes where you want it to. (if low approval) (approves)

(aggressive) I feel like you don’t really appreciate me. I’m tired of investing myself in this relationship when you obviously aren’t doing the same. (slightly disapproves) I’m sorry, I promise I was trying, I do appreciate you, you’re so amazing and, I promise, I’ll try to do better, if you, give me another chance, and tell me what you need, I’m, you’re right, I don’t deserve this, you’re too good for me, I’m sorry, I’m sorry. (<3) Alright. One more chance. (approves) Thank you, I don’t deserve this, thank you. (</3) No, it’s too late. (slightly approves) You’re right, I don’t deserve it, I’m sorry for wasting your time, I won’t bother you again.

(</3) I think this isn’t working out. We should break up. (if she stood up for herself)

[a friendly, happy smile melts into a look of shock and distress] You.... [breathes in deep then meets your eyes solemnly.] Alright. Fair enough. You’ll still... Can we still be friends? Or would you rather...

(diplomatic) Of course we can still be friends. (approves) Oh, good. I’d miss your company a lot, if we stopped talking altogether. Friends is... staying friends is great.

(sarcastic) Well, as members of the Inquisition’s inner circle, I sure hope we can still get along. (slightly approves) Yes, I, hope so too. (aggressive) We’ll see how things go. Of course, Inquisitor.

After she’s called you Ma’arlath:

(?) You called me...

Hmm?

(if the Inquistor is an elf)

(diplomatic) You said, ma’arlath. I love you too, emma da’enansal, vhenan’ara.

(sarcastic) your love. Did you think I wouldn’t catch that?

(aggressive) Ah, never mind. Ma’arlath.

(if the Inquisitor is a human, qunari, or dwarf)

> Marlath?

Oh, um, arlath, yes. ma’arlath.

> What does it mean, if you don’t mind me asking?

It’s Elvhen for.. [blushing, she starts took look away, then stops, and meets your eyes instead] My love.

Non-romanced Romance:

If you don’t romance Nai’ahvier, she dates Krem!

Lead-up:

Once you’ve got both Nai’ahvier and the Chargers recruited and have moved to Skyhold, party banter starts mentioning Nai’ahvier’s crush on Krem. Sera teases her and gives her bad advice and makes funny nsfw suggestions. Bull teases her and gives her good advice and makes funny overly-pg suggestions.

The banter stops if you haven’t locked into a romance and you’ve flirted with Nai’ahvier more than anyone else, or flirted with her a few times and have high approval. But if not, or if you begin her romance but break up with her, it continues. Solas side-eyes her for her interest in a human. Cole reveals some of her gooshy romantic thoughts, to her great embarrassment, and starts to reveal something Krem has thought before she shushes him. Dorian suggests some Tevinter methods of courtship.

If Krem dies:

If you bring Nai’ahvier with you on Bull’s mission, then when the time comes for the decision, she tries her best to convince you to not trust the Qunari deal, to think of the PR, to remember how helpful the Chargers have been – she turns to Bull and begs him to be loyal to his followers and repay their trust, to follow his heart, to think for himself for once – she has to be held back from signaling the retreat herself. When it’s obvious she hasn’t succeeded, she runs off, spells crackling along her staff, hoping she’s not too late to do something.

In banter, several companions express their condolences, with varying opinions on the necessity of the sacrifice. Nai’ahvier replies with quiet agreements and “thank you”s and “don’t worry about me”s. Bull’s attempt at apology and explanation is pointedly ignored.

Back at Skyhold, you can talk to her about your decision.

(diplomatic) I'm so sorry it turned out this way. (if she apologized) It’s not your fault. (if she stood up for herself) Of course. Inquisitor.

(sarcastic) Well, that turned to shit, huh. Life sucks. Heh. Yes. It does sometimes.

(aggressive) It was the only thing I could do. (slightly disapproves) (if she apologized) Being the one who has to make the tough calls must be difficult. (if she stood up for herself) I suppose it is the only thing you could do.

If Nai’ahvier apologizes:

She decides not to act on her crush. Varric reassures her that things will go ok even if Krem turns her down, and Bull says he probably won’t. Sera cooks up silly fanfic-esque plots, which Blackwall laughs at despite his efforts to back up Nai’ahvier’s protests. Vivienne gives her a pep talk, telling her to seize what she wants.

But she doesn’t want to.

She doesn’t want to drag Krem into her life. She doesn’t want to be a burden. She’s planning to join her brother when Corypheus is defeated, so, why bother starting something that can’t last.

Krem will mention that the cute elven girl with the flowers hasn’t been around the tavern lately, what a shame.

If Krem lives and Nai’ahvier stands up for herself:

She gathers her courage – she starts to talk directly with Krem more, rather than just hanging around the edges of group conversations – she gets a last round of advice – she asks him to go on a picnic with her. Afterwards, he asks her to join him for a night of drinks and cards. He starts hanging out in the garden sometimes. She starts hanging out with the Chargers sometimes.

Or at least, this is what you gather from banter! There’s lots of ribbing and “about time”s and winks all around. Cassandra tries her best not to ask, starry-eyed, for details. Varric pretends to quote the back of their romance novel. Nai’ahvier, answers some questions and shuts down others, embarrassed but happy.

The End:

If Nai’ahvier apologized, she breaks up with a romanced inquisitor, saying it wouldn’t be fair not to, since she’s leaving. Romanced or not, she promised her brother she’d help him once Corypheus was defeated, and now- off she goes.

If she stood up for herself, she’s planning to travel, and assist the Dalish and mages of all kinds however she can. If romanced, she asks you to keep her updated and she’ll try to do the same, so you can visit each other whenever both your schedules allow. Not romanced, she still asks a medium/high approval Inquisitor to keep up correspondence with her.

Trespasser:

If Nai’ahvier apologized:

She’s a bit reluctant to give details to what she’s been up to, since you’re part of a law-keeping organization and all, and what she does say seems... off. She’s happy to see you and the rest of her friends, and seems to brighten up when you speak to her, but overall seems worried and lost.

The revelations about the Dalish gods turns her a little bitter - the nice stories were always just too-nice stories. The truth is worse than she ever could have guessed. She’s horrified at Solas’s plan, but then- things are so awful.

The ending slides show her leaving, to help he who she promised she would help - you hope she’s going back to her brother, and not Solas’s armies.

If Nai’ahvier stood up for herself:

She’s full of stories about the places she’s been and the people she’s seen. If you have high approval she reminisces fondly about the Inquisition, and if you have low then she makes some pointed comments, and either way she gives you some good diplomatic advice.

If Nai’ahvier romanced Krem, they have a very cute reunion, and she mentions that the world has settled enough that it’d be nice to take a break - perhaps travel with a mercenary band? Separately, Krem mentions that he could use a break from fighting - perhaps it would be nice to, uh.. yeah, whatever Nai’ahvier wants to do.

If the Inquisitor romanced Nai’ahvier, she says she’s tired of missing you - it seems like it’s been so long since you were last able to meet up with each other. Everything depends on how the talks go, on what the fate of the Inquisition is, but... she hopes that after this, you two can stay closer, still making the world a better place in your own ways - but together, this time.

The revelations about the Dalish gods are shocking, but luckily not too personally earth-shattering - she enjoyed her mother’s stories, but never quite believed. What she does believe in is the goodness of people and the importance of culture, and learning about the the “true” past of the elves makes her more sure in her love for the Dalish than ever. She’s horrified by Solas’s plan, and while she usually leans towards more peaceful conflict-resolution herself, she will support you if you must fight him. She will stand up for herself and her people.

The ending slides show her dedicating herself to teaching the world how to get along with mages instead of being dicks and making everything worse. If she romanced Krem, he joins her, and they sometimes travel with the Chargers, and they adopt a bunch of kiddos. If the Inquisitor romanced her and still leads an organization, she makes her base there and travels when her work calls for it, happy to return home between missions. If the Inquisitor romanced her and has left the Inquisition behind, they travel together. In any of these endings, she is sure of her choices, and dedicated to living the best life she can.