#dragon age 2 fanficiton

[tiny-elf-of-doom]

The Cloak-and-Dagger Game - DA2

M!Hawke x Fenris ft. Varric

Varric is writing another book and needs inspiration for his protagonist's sex sequence. To ensure his knowledge is clear as glass, he decides to snoop around Hawke's mansion to see what he and Fenris get up to. The dwarf ends up pleasantly surprised.

MDNI 🔞: sex, gay boys, top!Hawke, bottom!Fenris, flirting, dirty talk, language, erotic massage, rough kissing, spying, humor, Varric is hilarious, and plenty of banter.

In my attempts to complete my most recent tale, I've found myself in a rut; stuck with a lack of creativity. This happens among writers many times in their lives, but through trials and tribulations, or perhaps sheer luck, they break down such blockages. Unfortunately for me, I've been staring at this page for a while now, and of course its a heated scene.

I would love to think of myself as a sexually involved man, a romantic lover, but moments like this brings me to opposite conclusions. Perhaps I need to get into the mood when I write these sequences, or ask someone how to go about establishing the involvement of two men. I wipe the annoyance from my tired eyes, knowing fully that asking that question would be rather complicated. Sebastian has probably never been touched in his life, nor has Anders, but Hawke has, and so has the broody elf, Fenris.

Perhaps the clouds have lifted. A warmth pools over my lower belly as I imagine their secret escapades, or perhaps its the ale. No one knows what kinds of lustful acts they conduct, which would make it hard to interrogate them. I nearly banish the thought from my mind when I recall a conversation had between them at the Hanged Man. Something about staying the night in Hawke's mansion to 'catch up' after all of three days of separation had passed. I could snoop around, wade my way through the mansion until I stumble upon his sleeping quarters. I'd stay in a tight closet, yes, Varric, very good!

And so it is settled, I play the cloak-and-dagger game.

~*~

If I hadn't been so dull, I would have left some space between myself and the damn linens. Closets in these large houses never fail to be stuffed with ridiculous clothing. Wriggling against the farbics, I peek through the grates on the side of the wood paneling. From there, two figures are seated on the carpet, enjoying wine next to the fire. It crackles, blazing gold against their casual garb. I don't think I've ever seen Fenris and Hawke dress so simply, especially in one another's presence. Firelight brightens their skin and for once in all of the time I've known the elf, he smiles. Chuckles, even, at the yarn Hawke begins to spin.

He's truly not that comical. Well, compared to me, at least.

"...and that was how I defeated a Qunari in battle with a broken sword," Hawke finished with a bow.

Fenris had clapped, smirking with full lips. "A true hero of legend!"

Hawke batted the comment with his hand," forget it!"

"Award him with anything he desires!" Fenris replied.

Of course, I feel happy for Hawke and that broody elf, but their interactions are anything but unique. Typical lovers congratulating one another on their accomplishments was mild drabble, I want more, and after a moment of feeling like a fool trapped in a closet, I finally have my wishes granted.

"Anything I desire?" Hawke coos, "I would like you in my bed, elf."

"Me? I'm sure you can find someone better..." Fenris might be serious, appearing self-conscious as his gaze is cast aside.

Suddenly, Hawke's voice lowers. "No, Fenris. You have always had my full desire. I only crave you."

Now we're talking. I wish I brought a quill and paper with me, though I doubt it would fit in that closet with me. Hawke pulls the elf into a kiss with the tug of his fingers under that dainty chin. It's slow at first, then picks up when they began to get handsy. To be completely honest, I have always wanted to see the full design of Fenris' lyrium tattoos. They peak out along his arms and throat, some on his legs, but I have never had the chance to truly see what kind of chaos covers his torso. Hawke has, and I am still slightly jealous for that.

The elf happily disrobes, sitting nude in the wake of the fire. White, glowing lines flow along every muscle, branching around his body as a tree in spring blooms outward. It's kinda cool, though unfortunate. All the pain of a full body carving, and for what? To rip people's hearts out? It doesn't seem very fair. Soon, Hawke joins him in the disrobing, throwing their clothes to the side nearest to this closet. I hold my breath, don't you dare bump anything.

Luckily, they don't seem to notice my shadow moving between the grates. I am safe for the moment, thank the Maker. Fenris climbs atop Hawke, straddling his left thigh. He moves along the bulging muscles with finesse and utmost experience. To my surprise, he begins to make a stream of noises I never thought I would hear. They are loose, sultry in the back of his throat. A songbird couldn't carry a pretty tune as this elf can. Hawke has his left hand settled on the elf's hip, moving it along with the smooth gyrations.

"Care to take a ride with me, my beautiful Fenris?" Hawke asks softly.

Fenris nods, "yes, I believe a ride is much needed."

Oh yes, I agree. Hawke lifts the elf into his arms and I can't help but adore the way broody elf's legs wrap around Hawke's strong torso. To the bed they go and I've lost visual on them. Goddamnit, I curse. I peer around the closet for any holes in the wood, but I am left with darkness. Perhaps if I slightly open the door, I can see the bed. Rattling is heard from the nightstand, so there is enough distraction and noise to hide my movements. Carefully as to remain hidden, I push the closet door forward until there is a decent view of the bed. To my relief, neither of them noticed the squeaking. Varric, if you ever do this again, don't choose the fucking closet next time.

Hawke takes his time kissing the elf, making sure his lips have ventured over every crevice and marking on Fenris' body. His moans are sweet, but grow desperate when his lover pushes his legs upward to touch his shoulders. Maker's balls, I can't believe how flexible the elf is. If anyone else in our group ever tried that, they'd be out of commission for a month. However, Fenris wraps his arms around his calves, keeping them in place so Hawke has full access to his ass. He dips down to plant a kiss on the back of the elf's thigh, relaxing his partner, no doubt. Fenris is always a nervous creature, so such tenderness is most definitely needed.

Then, things become interesting.

I watch as Hawke latches to the elf's backside, licking the skin and fucking the hole with his tongue. Broody elf's big, green eyes roll back into his head, flopping to the bedsheets in absolute delight. A tingle pricks at my belly, an excitement like no other. I may need to take care of personal business at this rate, but not here. The sounds are obscene and Fenris is eating them up, going so far as to grip Hawke's hair for dear life.

"G-Get the oil, Hawke," the elf pleads, "I want more than just your tongue inside of me."

"Is it that bad?" He joked with a wink.

"It's better than anything I could ever dream."

Cheesy as hell, and I roll my eyes. Another kiss is pressed to the elf's leg before Hawke turns to grab their decorative bottle of oil. It's in a gold vial covered in intricate markings, likely one of the treasures Hawke's been gifted over the years. A few drops suffice along with the man's spit to lube them both. The larger man lays back against the pillows, welcoming a needy elf to seat himself on his lap. Those markings glow brightly, nearly blinding me as I try to shield my eyes. One hand on Hawke's well endowed cock and one lyrium clad palm help ease the elf onto that incredible hilt.

Pain, plenty of pain causes the elf to cry out. Even I cannot help but flinch at the idea of being penetrated by something so thick. The stretch must be unforgiving, though broody is taking it like a champ. Hawke rubs the elf's hips, attempting to sooth the agony just a little more. It takes time, and I expect it to, but soon he's seated and breathing heavy. And this is why I don't bottom.

"Are you alright, Fenris?" Hawke checks in, voice gentle.

Fenris only groans, gasping for any words willing to be released. There appear to be none present, therefore, he ignores communication and starts to rock his hips. Bouncing up and down, he brings Hawke into a small fit of vocalization. It's everything I imagined it would be, just as masculine and deep as his usual voice. Opening up slowly, Hawke joins Fenris in thrusting upward into the elf, angling his hips in a different manner every time. I raise my brow in momentary confusion, what is he trying to accomplish?

Suddenly, Fenris cries out, gripping Hawke's strong forearms. I think I see trails of blood leaking to the bed. "Keep your hips like that and don't you dare shift them!"

Ah, I mumble to myself, he found broody's love spot.

The thrusting continues in this new position and Fenris is mewling like the most popular whore in all of Lowtown. I never thought I would be hearing Fenris lose himself in the wrung of pleasure, but here I am, stiffening from the men before me. Bianca will be jealous, but I ignore the thought and begin to palm at my trousers.

"Fenris, not so fast... I might-" Hawke growls, head thrown back against the plush pillows.

Fucking hell, Hawke.

The elf slams his mouth against his lover's, taking him in a deep, hot kiss. "Come, right now... fill me with your kin."

What the hell, Fenris?

It all becomes too much, even for me, and I watch as the two come undone within each other's grasp. Fenris releases himself all over the front of Hawke's stomach and chest while the champion of Kirkwall has found a safe place to expel his orgasm within the elf. In order to keep myself from joining them, I squeeze the hell out of my testicles, focusing on the pain as opposed to the pleasure. They collapse onto the bed, heaving breaths until the only sound in the room is the roar of the fireplace.

"Once you're up to it, how does a bath sound?" Hawke questions.

"Much needed," broody raises his head to kiss Hawke's cheek, "thank you, my darling Hawke."

"Always, Fenris," he had replied.

No, no, thank you both, I cackle in thought, for all of these incredible ideas. Hopefully, I won't get anything wrong when I tell this story.

[tigereyes45]

Our Alibi

Chapters: 1/1 Fandom: Dragon Age - All Media Types, Dragon Age II Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: Graphic Depictions Of Violence Relationships: Female Hawke/Varric Tethras Characters: Varric Tethras, Hawke (Dragon Age), Bethany Hawke, Aveline Vallen, Isabela (Dragon Age), Merrill (Dragon Age), Fenris (Dragon Age), Sebastian Vael Additional Tags: POV Varric Tethras, Missing Scene, Canon Compliant, Hurt/Comfort, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, Rogue Hawke (Dragon Age) Summary:

War has broken out in Kirkwall. Meredith is dead, and Varric needs to get Hawke back home.

------------

This story was a treat I posted for the @hightown-funk 2022 event. This is a gift for @fade-and-loathing-in-thedas​​

The Ao3 link is here: https://archiveofourown.org/works/42538806

[thevikingwoman]

DWC: the way you said I love you; as a goodbye?

Hi! four years later, and I’m filling this prompt. Sadness, for @dadrunkwriting

Fandom: Dragon Age. Words: 399

Iwyn Lavellan X Solas | Inqusition end | angst/romanceRating: G. Sadness, angst, Solas being Solas

Goodbye

He has a plan. They will fightCorypheus, he will take the orb, and he will leave. He’s sure it will go well. Iwyn,the Inquisitor is well prepared, her plan is solid and her allies are competent.In the confusion of battle, he should have no trouble slipping away.

He has a plan, and he will leave.

Solas sighs, and looks at themural before him. Unfinished, but it’s how it has to be. He reaches for heroutline, where he’s traced her, victorious.

Ar lath ma.

He cannot say it, and it’s no use.He’s made his choice.

His desk is messy, paper and booksand half eaten piece of bread. He tosses the bread and straightens the papers.Considers the books. Should he bring them? How neat can make his place withoutarising suspicion. He moves a few papers back, haphazardly over the table. Findsan important one, and shoves it in his pack.

His eyes dart around, and up. Noone is watching, no one is leaning over the railing.

Solas sits at his desk. He can’tleave her like this, not without a word. He find sa blank piece of paper, hispen. He knows she will find it.

Vhenan.

I first of allmust tell you I am sorry. I am certain you have won by now, and I have left. Iapologize for my departure, and how things are between us, but it is better in thelong run.

I hope you findhappiness and peace wherever you go, no matter what you do next.

There arethings I cannot tell you, things that will be made clear later. I wish… I wishit was not so.

Ir ablelas,vhenan.

Goodbye, Iwyn.

Ar lath ma,

-         Solas

 He folds the letter, and places itin the drawer. Takes it out and writes her name across it. He wonders if he shouldput it on her desk, or leave it in his room. No, on his desk is better. Shewill come here, after. When he’s left her, victorious and alone.

It’s better that way. She isstrong, and he shouldn’t interfere.

He loves her, and he needs toleave.

His hands tremble.

I love you, goodbye.

It serves no purpose. He hasalready hurt her enough. The letter turns to ash in his hands.

He has a plan, and he will leave.

[in-arlathan]

Fic Writer Questions (#1)

I was tagged by @kunstpause who came up with the wonderful idea of asking writing-related questions that are a bit different to the usual OC/writing asks (Thank you so much!). The original post is here.

This is about getting to know each other and discussing writing-related stuff. This round starts with three questions for us writers to answer and so I jumped right in.

Todays Topic: Tropes

1. Do you enjoy the occasional trope, do you love them all, do you hate tropy stuff with a passion?

2. Which tropes are your favs? Which ones do you avoid? Have you written any yourself or is there one you really want to write?

3. Do you have different preferences for reading than you have for writing? If so, is there a reason for it?

Tagging forward to some of the writing friends I know around here, but feel free to join in, opt-out, or tag me back. Hello @serial-chillr, @johaeryslavellan, @solas-disapproves, @cornfedcryptid, @elfrootaddict​, @pikapeppa, @rivainisomniari, @midnightprelude, @kita-lavellan, @noire-pandora, @kittimau, @faerieavalon.

My answers are below the cut to keep your dashboard nice and clean.

1. Do you enjoy the occasional trope, do you love them all, do you hate tropy stuff with a passion?

There are many tropes that I enjoy, although I have a hard time remembering them all. There are certain types of stories like Modern or Coffee Shop AUs that are not really my thing, but that’s about it. For me, it really comes down to the story and how it’s told.

2. Which tropes are your favs? Which ones do you avoid? Have you written any yourself or is there one you really want to write?

Is Mutual Pining a trope? If so, I’m a sucker for it. Best served with a slow-burning enemies-to-lovers plot. Any Unresolved Sexual Tension sucks me in and the Found Family trope gets to me every single time. I’m also a big fan of Redemption Arcs if they are done well (and it’s not just the villain being sorry for about 5 minutes before dying).

I’m a bit tired of Chosen Ones and Star-Crossed Lovers, but they can be done well. There are some Dragon Age time-travel AUs that did the last one pretty neatly tbh. When it comes to hate... well, I could go with a classic, the Love Triangle. I hate it with a burning passion. Although I might admit that I hate it a lot more in mainstream media than in fanficiton. In fics, I’m much more forgiving of tropes like these (usually because they are set up in an interesting way and/or don’t involve unhealthy/abusive relationship behaviour).

Looking at my own writing, I’m not sure if I use tropes that much. I don’t use them on purpose, that’s for sure. I have a tendency to build plots that involve a complicated family history complete with betrayals and backstabbing both in my original works and my fanfiction. My one-shots are full of emotional epiphanies like when one character realizes they are crazy in love with someone else. I do it so often I could call it a trope. 

I did notice that I tend to use a trope called Sealed Evil In A Can instead of McGuffins and red herrings. I also do the Aloof Ally a lot. Like A LOT. There is always at least one secondary character throwing shade at people. I guess that’s my evil subconscience emerging from the depth of my brain in the form of characters such as Solas or Mythal to have its five minutes of fame.

3. Do you have different preferences for reading than you have for writing? If so, is there a reason for it?

I guess I read different stuff from what I write for two reasons. The first one being that I enjoy the difference between my own writing and the ideas and writing styles of other creators. Secondly, there are many writers who can pull off certain types of tropes that I’m too afraid to do myself. Some fics are so self-indulgent and yet so well done, but I’m often too afraid to take the leap and do it as well. Beginning with things like There Is Only One Bed, ending with anything that is remotely kinky. I do read smut, especially smutty fanfiction, but for some bizarre reason I avoid writing it myself. As Dorian likes to say; “A mystery for the ages.”

Thanks for reading. Thoughts? :)

[khirsahle]

Fanfiction Survey Results

Details: Six questions were asked—five for public consumption and one for private use. (Because I doubt anyone cares whether most of my readers are Dragon Age or Young Avengers fans.) 100 answers were tallied. Graphs and analysis have been offered as relevant; please consider yourself welcome to provide additional analysis. Research Methods was a very long time ago.

 Note: Also please be aware that this survey includes a selection bias. As it was posted on my Tumblr—and its respondents were my readers—it cannot be considered a purely random sample. Also, several people commented that they wanted to answer with multiple choices or an “it depends”. That’s understandable, but since it would have made analysis difficult, I didn’t offer it as an option.

Question #1: With your typical schedule in mind, what day of the week is the best for reading fanfiction? In other words, if a story could be posted according to your schedule, what day of the week would you be able to begin reading immediately?

Monday: 14%

Tuesday: 8%

Wednesday: 7%

Thursday: 7%

Friday: 26%

Saturday: 25%

Sunday: 13%

 Commentary: Unsurprisingly, the weekend—specifically Friday and Saturday night—is the best time for the majority of people to read fanfiction. Over half of the 100 readers surveyed consider the weekend (Friday, Saturday, and to a lesser extent Sunday) the best time for them to read fanfiction.

 Question #2: With your typical schedule in mind, what time of the day is the best for reading fanfiction? In other words, if a story could be posted according to your schedule, what time of the day would you be able to begin reading immediately?

12 PM EST: 3.13%

1 PM EST: 5.21%

2 PM EST: 3.13%

3 PM EST: 8.33%

4 PM EST: 6.25%

5 PM EST: 5.21%

6 PM EST: 11.46%

7 PM EST: 5.21%

8 PM EST: 6.25%

9 PM EST: 8.33%

10 PM EST: 9.38%

11 PM EST: 6.25%

12 AM EST: 2.08%

1 AM EST: 1.04%

2 AM EST: 0%

3 AM EST: 0%

4 AM EST: 0%

5 AM EST: 1.04%

6 AM EST: 2.08%

7 AM EST: 2.08%

8 AM EST: 5.21%

9 AM EST: 3.13%

10 AM EST: 3.13%

11 AM EST: 2.08%

 Commentary: There is no one clear “best time” to post fanfiction; however, focusing your posting between 3-11 PM EST would seem to yield the best results, with 6 PM EST being arguably the “best” time (though not by a high margin).

 Question #3: Approximately how long is your preferred (completed) fanfiction?

Very Short (Under 1k): 0%

Short (1k-5k): 2%

Medium-Leaning-Short (5k-10k): 5%

Medium-Leaning-Long (10k-20k): 16%

Long (20k-50k): 19%

Very Long (50k-100k): 28%

Ridiculous (100k+): 30%

 Commentary: This is where I think selection bias had some impact. I tend to write long, with a few fics over 100k—it makes sense to assume that people who like my stories also like long stories. However, ignoring that and going purely by the numbers, over half of respondents prefer fics to be 50k or more.

 As a point of comparison, the average mainstream novel is between 80k-95k. 30% of respondents prefer fanficiton that is longer than the average mainstream novel.

 Question #4: How long is your preferred (completed) fanfic chapter?

Short (up to 3k): 6%

Medium (3k-4.5k): 58%

Long (over 4.5k): 36%

 Commentary: This was an unexpected surprise, considering how respondents leaned toward long fics in general. I would imagine that readers would prefer longer chapters if the updates are less frequent, but that wasn’t tested in this survey.

 As a point of comparison, the average mainstream novel has a chapter length of roughly 3.5-4.5k.

 Question #5: If you could control my writing/update schedule--and keeping in mind that rapid updating of one story means slower updating of others--how often would you want to see an update to your favorite story?

 Twice a week: 4.04%

Once a week: 31.31%

Once every two weeks: 43.43%

Once a month: 20.20%

Once every six weeks: 1.01%

Once every other month: 0%

 Comment: I suspect there may be a selection bias here, too, since I juggle so many fics and would never be able to maintain a twice a week schedule. (I’ve been vocal about not being able to maintain a once a week schedule, too.) This may be a case of people having pity on me, as I suspect there would be fewer “once a month” answers otherwise.

[thevikingwoman]

Hay 6

I made up a Dalish festival for this chapter, and I also used some Dalish words and phrases for my own purposes.

Source of the words/phrases are the DA wiki entry on Elvhen language.

Din’al – the death gathering (din: death, ‘al: gather) Enansal (blessing) Enansan Din’al – Gathering for blessing of the dead. Sa'vunin Lethallen – Next day with friends. (sa'vunin: one more time, lethallen: friend) las – grant, hamin - peace

Fandom: Dragon Age. Words: 2816 (this part)

Beginning | Part 5 ||  Start on ao3 | read this on ao3 || Part 7

Iwyn Lavellan x Solas | modern AU | romance Rating: Teen (this part.Overall explicit). Family, holidays, made-up Dalish traditions.

Chapter 6

Iwyn’s phone is vibrating on the shelf. It vibrates again. It’s probably Raina, with well wishes for the holiday. Or maybe it’s Solas. She smiles, and turns to get it, but her mother calls her.

“Help me in the kitchen, Iwyn. Branwen can light the candles.”

“Coming.”

She hands her brother the matches, and he lights more candles. In the tradition of Enansal Din’al there are some on every surface where it’s safe – and some Iwyn deems a little questionable on the bookshelf.

Her phone buzzes once again behind her, but she is already in the kitchen. Her mother is slicing lemons and has two trays and three bowls out, and some dough rising in the corner. The kitchen is warm and familiar, and there are candles in the windowsill. It’s like every Din’al always, in the best way.

“Where’s papae? Did he go with grandmamae and grandpapae on their walk?”

Branwen picked up her grandparents on his way from the farm, they all arrived last night. She washes her hands, and starts chopping the herbs her mom points at.

“He went to pick up a cake at a bakery.”

“I could have brought something on my way here.”

“There is a new Dalish one on 5th St, I wanted to try it. Besides, I think he wanted to stop by Ellan and drop off some of his spirits too.”

“A new Dalish bakery?”

“Well, the proprietor is Dalish, I believe. I don’t know if they do proper hearthbread, but we can make that ourselves.”

“Why aren’t they closed today?”

Most Dalish are celebrating the holiday, and most businesses are closed in Wycome. With the large Dalish population everyone relishes the chance of two extra days of vacation.

“I guess they need the business. I think they close early, though.”

Iwyn nods, and scrapes the herbs into the tiny glass bowl.

“What’s next?”

“Can you do the carrots?”

There is plenty more to do, and it’s much later when she finally remembers her phone. The carrots are roasting in the oven and the fish is ready to cook. Her grandparents and her dad are back, and he has poured wine for them all. She sinks into the couch next to her grandmother. Her grandparents ask about her job, and how proud they are of her. She doesn’t think it’s that special, but they’re her grandparents. Then the talk drift to Branwen and the farm, and the plans he has. They are good plans, but she’s heard most of it, and takes a moment to check her phone.

There is a message from Raina, as she expected, and two from Solas. She opens Raina’s first.

[Happy holidays, Las Hamin]

[Las Hamin Din’al. See you tomorrow!], she replies.

Raina doesn’t reply, as expected. She is busy celebrating with her own family.

Next, she reads Solas’ messages.

[Iwyn, I wanted to tell you I have been offered the job at Wycome, and I intend to accept. They want me to start in Wintermarch, right after First Day.]

[I assume you are celebrating the holiday. Las Hamin Din’al Enansal, Iwyn. Talk to you later.]

He got the job! He is moving to Wycome? Three more months, and he will live here. She feels hot all over. It has been a few weeks with lots of texting, and longing, and calling. She misses him more than before, but he accepted, and she’ll be able to see him a lot, to have him sleep in her bed, to –

“What are you smiling about, Iwyn?” Branwen asks. “You’re looking at your phone like you won the lottery.”

“It’s nothing.”

“Doesn’t look like nothing.”

“It’s none of your business.”

“But it’s something.”

“Yes, it’s something.”

“Looks like happy news. You should share.”

“We always want to hear happy news, dear,” Grandmamae says.

“Branwen!”

Her brother smirks at her.

“I’m seeing someone, and he just told me he got a job in Wycome. He lives in Jader right now.”

It’s not like it’s a secret.

“Solas? Since when are you seeing him?”

This is why it’s a secret.

“For some time now.”

“That’s lovely, Iwyn,” Grandmamae says, “How did you meet? What does he do?”

“Solas is the guy who purchased Mythal’s house. He’s my neighbor, but he doesn’t live there.” Branwen replies. “I suppose he met Iwyn this summer, though I’d no idea they were dating.”

“Who’s dating?“ her mother asks, as she returns from the kitchen.

It’s going to be a very long family dinner.

--

In the end it’s not that bad. Her grandparents are happy for her, if she is happy then they are. And she is happy. She can’t help the warmth in her chest when she talks about Solas. Branwen says Solas is nice enough, even he does seem a little aloof. Her parents are happy for her too, and they want to meet him. She isn’t sure she wants them to, not yet, but maybe at some point. If he lives in Wycome, it’s inevitable and it would be nice to have him here, with her family. The lights are melting, and she is full and happy and maybe a little tipsy from her dad’s spirits. She wants Solas with her now, leaning up against him on her parent’s couch.

She misses him terribly.

She’s already snuck in a quick message of congrats and cheering, but she wants to talk to him. Does he have a place to live? Does he plan on moving here before his job starts? They’ve been talking and texting often, but they haven’t really talked about what would happen if he moved here. He didn’t say anything, and she didn’t want to pressure him. But now it’s settled there are so many things they could do, and so many more they need to figure out.

Later, when her grandparents have gone to sleep, and she’s escaped to foldout bed in her mom’s office – she’s drunk too much to go home and her own old room has been converted to a guest room long ago – she finally has time to talk to Solas.

[Hey, are you awake?]

[I am now.]

[Sorry! I didn’t mean wake you! I’ll call tomorrow.]

He is typing, and then he isn’t. She thinks he might have fallen asleep, but then his name pop up on the phone. She picks up.

“Hi Solas. Congrats, I’m so happy you accepted the offer. And I hope I didn’t really wake you up.”

She doesn’t want to be a nuisance, or expect him to call and text her at all hours.

“It is fine, Iwyn. I was only halfway asleep. And thank you. Did you have a good celebration?”

“Yes, it was real nice. Everyone wants to meet you.”

“Everyone?”

She can see his raised eyebrows in her mind, and she giggles a little.

“My grandmamae and grandpapae were here. Well, they’re still here, just sleeping. And mamae and papae. Branwen you’ve already met. I… they figured it out when I was excited over your message. I hope you don’t mind. You don’t have to meet them immediately, or before you want to or—”

“It’s fine, Iwyn.“ He chuckles a little, and she feels warm. “So, you’re excited?”

“Yes, I am. Quite a bit. I hoped you would take the job here, of course. I miss you, Solas. I can’t wait to see you more often.”

“Ah. I wasn’t – I miss you too, Iwyn.”

“I didn’t want to influence your decision, Solas. I want the job to be nice. I hope it will be, that the offer was good.”

“Thank you. It was as expected. Academic jobs don’t tend to compete on salaries. But the position itself should offer me more research opportunities than in Jasper. The head of the department has an… interesting collection of artifacts.”

Iwyn flops down on her bed, listing to his voice.

“Good. That’s good.”

“I suspect you didn’t want to talk about ancient elven artifacts, though.”

He chuckles again, and she wishes she had her head on his chest.

“I like hearing about that stuff. But yeah. I wanted to congratulate you and – when do you think you’ll move? Do you know where you’ll live? And I just wanted to hear your voice.”

“I don’t know when I will move, but I would like to be settled a week or so before First Day. That should give me time. I’m not sure where I will live. I’d hope to get your opinion on where to look. And maybe – maybe help me look at apartments.”

“I’d like to. I’ll think – I’ll think of where makes sense.” She wants him to not be too far from where she lives, and he wants to be close to his work at the University.

“Thank you. I hope to come for three or four days to look at places. You could go with me. I’d like your opinion, if you don’t mind.”

“That would be lovely, Solas. I’d love to help.”

I love you, she wants to say, but she’s not drunk enough to do so. She’d like to tell him to his face, and soon he’ll be here. It’ll still be too early though. She’ll have to wait.

“I appreciate that, Iwyn. I haven’t settled the exact dates, is there any that would work for you?”

Anytime. Now. Tomorrow.

“I don’t have a lot of plans coming up. I usually spend Santalia with my family. I don’t know if we’ll go to the farm this year, now that Branwen lives there. But we might? So around that time I’m not sure, but otherwise I’m here.”

“I see. I’ve no desire to battle the airport mobs at Santalia in any case, but maybe after will work.”

“Sounds good. I’m looking forward to seeing you. Very much.”

“Me too… Iwyn.” He makes some sort of noise she can’t place, and goes on, “I’ll look at dates this week and see what I can arrange.”

“Stay at my place,” she blurts out. “No need for a hotel. If you want to, that is. If you don’t that’s fine too, if you don’t feel comfort –”

“I’d love to stay with you for the trip, Iwyn. That does make it easier… and more interesting.”

Good. Her heart beats faster.

“Interesting, how?”

“Are you alone?”

“I’m at my parents, but everyone is asleep. I think.”

“Let’s hope so…”

--

The next day, while her parents and grandparents have the somber task of visiting the dead, Iwyn makes her way to Raina’s house. She managed to get out of the house before Branwen asked any more questions. He has formed opinions on his vacationing neighbor; she’s sure. She’ll take as a good sign that he trusts Solas enough to let him help him with the farm.

Raina usually hosts Sa'vunin Lethallen, the next day gathering of friends and younger couples. Raina has a whole house she inherited from her grandmother and she fills it easily with her many friends and friends of friends. Sometimes it seems like she’s connected to half the Dalish Wycome. The house is always bustling full of happy people and delicious food at festival time.

Raina has gone all out this year, the entryway to her house is littered with melted candles. They can’t stand up to rain, but every third one is an electric one, so all in all it gives an effect of real candles fighting against the wind.

Raina opens the door before Iwyn knocks, perfect red lips and bouncy curls. She pulls Iwyn into a hug.

“Come in, it’s raining. You’re the first. Did you bring the dough?”

“The candles look great. I love it Raina.” Iwyn pulls off her winter boots, and hangs up her coat. “The dough is in the red bag. It needs to rise a little more.”

“Great! Come in, come in. And thanks, I really like the candles. Wait till you see the living room. “

Iwyn follows Raina through the hallway and into the living room. She stops and takes in everything. Raina has put fairy light nets under the ceiling, all of them wrapped in tree branches. There are more electric candles everywhere, and a garland of colored leaves at the old fireplace. It’s burning brightly.

“Amazing. You’ve outdone yourself this year.”

Iwyn snaps a couple of pictures, she wants to show Solas.

Raina has already put the dough out on the kitchen table with a towel over it, and Iwyn unloads the rest of her bag on the tall bar separating the kitchen from the living room. A bottle of Dalish spirits, courtesy of her father. Two halla cheeses from the farm, a jar of spicy nuts she roasted yesterday and some olives she found on sale. There is already a batch of brownies and tray of Ferelden and Orlesian cheeses, and she decides to add the halla cheeses to the plate.

“Let me fold the dough,” Iwyn says, as the doorbell rings.

Raina nods and heads to let people in.  

It doesn’t take long for the home to fill with people, and the table filled with food. Everyone is chatting, catching up, and eating. Iwyn returns to the kitchen and starts rolling out the hearthbreads.

“Yay, bread!” someone yells from the back.

“You can do the next batch,” she yells back. It’s some tall dark-haired guy she doesn’t know. Normally she wouldn’t be above flirting a little, but now she just misses Solas. The house is full of elves, her friends, acquaintances, friends of friends. It’s the holiday tradition, and even if Solas isn’t Dalish, she wants to share it with him. He wonders if he likes hearthbread, and if he’s ever had it fresh and homemade. She imagines him here, in the house, in the kitchen. Maybe he’d put his arms around her, kiss her neck --  

“Where are you off to?” Raina asks. Iwyn didn’t even hear her enter the kitchen.

“I’m here.”

“Your mind was elsewhere.”

Iwyn puts the bread on the baking sheet, and takes another ball of dough.

“I was just… missing someone.”

“The boyfriend. The mysterious, brilliant boyfriend in Jasper.”

“Yes, Solas. I wish he were here.”

“So, things are going well?”

Raina grabs her own ball of dough and rolls it out. Iwyn has told Raina most of it, but maybe not that she’s already in love. She’s barely told herself.

“Very well.” She can’t help grinning. “He’s moving here. He got a job offer from the University, and decided to take it.”

“That’s awesome.” Raina is smiling, and Iwyn knows she means it. Iwyn hopes Solas will get along with her, but then again, very few people don’t get along with her friend.

“Did he move here for you?” she continues, “that’s very romantic.”

“No, he didn’t. I mean I don’t think so. He was already looking for the job here, that’s how I ran into him again.”

“Yes, after a month of pining.”

“I didn’t pine.”

“Sure.” Raina grins, and Iwyn doesn’t argue. Her friend is a more than a little right. “I’ve never heard so much about a summer fling. I’m glad he is moving here, and I can meet him, and I’m happy he makes you happy. He better make you happy. When is he moving? Where will he live?”

Iwyn takes the first batch of bread out of the oven and puts the next in.

“I don’t know where he will live. He asked me to look with him. I’ve no idea what his budget is, but I assume he wants to love close to the University campus.”

“Or maybe he want’s to live close to you.”

“He is moving for the job. I didn’t want to pressure him.”

“I get it, and I don’t get it. It’s a lot of pressure, but you can’t just wait around for people. Sometimes you have to, you know, move them a bit.”

Iwyn nods, and makes bread.

“Oh, do you know Lisa? She does real estate. Rentals too. I’ll send you her info.” Raina pulls out her phone, and scrolls through her contacts. “Unless he just moves into your place. Might be easiest and your place is pretty big. Found her! There you go.”

“Thank you. I don’t think – I’m not quite sure I’m ready to have him move in.”

“Well, it does bring some advantages.” Raina waggles her eyebrows, or attempts to. It’s silly, and Iwyn laughs. It would bring advantages. Waking up in his arms, staying in together. She might never get to work though. Not to mention they don’t know each other well enough. People don’t just move in, do they?

“Mmmm, this is so good. Your mom’s recipe is the best.” Raina rips another piece of hearthbread, and dips it in honey.

It’s enough for others to descend on the kitchen and the bread, and Iwyn snatches a piece for herself before they’re all gone.