#he flirts with varric too

[pupkinpumpkin]

I would like to say thank you to Cullen for breaking the tradition of me romancing characters I actually don't want to romance bc I worry about their happiness and wellbeing if I don't

[abyssal-ilk]

an hour with merrill and varric curled up ontop of him like cats would fix him, i think. i mean it wouldn't. but it would definitely make him feel better.

i cannot stress enough that my new hawke was made purely with the idea of him being a big, strong man grappling with his own morality and the responsibilities he has to take care of his friends and his family– responsibilities that ultimately lead him to seeing everyone else as potential threats to the safety of those he cares for. it solidifies this idea in his head that his purpose is to be A Protector no matter the cost, and when he fails to protect, it is a personal failure and ultimately his fault for not being stronger.

and then all of his friends have 10x the issues so he seems like just a guy compared to them but he isn't, someone please put this man in therapy

[rpgchoices]

What I miss the most in Veilguard

Thinking about what I miss the most in Veilguard and I realized it is the found family feeling of DAI and DA2. (also sorry for using he/him for rook, I keep playing male Rooks).

In my opinion, the biggest culprit is the lack of companions reactions during quests/npc dialogues.

DA2 did this quite well by putting Hawke and the companions against/in opposition to another character. In Veilguard we do not have NPCs you can chat with while your companions react.

If I am not misremembering, in Veilguard talking with NPCs is mainly Rook only. Even when your companions are there, they will not appear during the chat, and they won't comment. The only moment when they do is if the NPCs are part of their personal quests, then they will mainly do the talking and Rook will partecipate, but even if that case it is only one companion per time.

I honestly cannot think of any example where you have Rook talking with an NPC and the two companions having comments.

Ex.

Companions interacting

I think this is not as important as the previous point!

While you can see characters getting close (Neve/Lucanis, Taash/Harding, Bellara and Neve, Lucanis and Davrin etc.) I think the game misses the characters getting close to Rook. I think the missions where they are all together really help, especially because we get a lot of banter from Rook too, but from what I remember all the scenes where Rook interacts with the companions are (excluding the one on one chats):

Rook walking in on Emmrich and Harding preparing to go camping and having to manage their differences;

Rook walking in on Emmrich and Neve, Emmrich and Davrin or Emmrich and Lucanis doing necromancy. It never seems like they were waiting for Rook, just doing their thing and Rook walked in;

Rook walking in on Neve and Bellara talking food. I think this scene is a bit better given Rook here doesn't need to manage a situation, same with the serials scene with Neve and Bellara;

The Lucanis and Davrin scene (where they are drunk) is also probably one of the best ones, as Rook finds them there and they invite him to stare and eat with them;

Rook walking in on Taash and Emmrich fighting and having to manage their differences;

Rook walking in on Taash and Davrin training. No managing of differences here, thankfully, and it is mainly teasing;

Rook walking in on Neve and Lucanis flirting and same for Taash and Harding.

We never see a companion waiting for Rook in his room, or a scene just start with Rook already there instead of walking in and being ready to leave.

I am trying to think of some Inquisition scenes:

Inquisitor and Bull drinking after killing the first dragon. The scene would be completely different if it was Bull drinking and the Inquisitor walking in;

Inquisitor and Sera doing pranks. How different would it be if it was just the Inquisitor walking in on Sera and Josephine bickering becasue of a prank and having to manage their differences;

Inquisitor walking in on Cassandra reading would be similar to Veilguard but this scene then turns in a way for the player to tease Cassandra and create a sort of comraderie with Varric. A different scene I could see in Veilguard would have been just Rook walking in on Varric and Cassandra already discussing the romance and having to settle their decisions/preferences;

and of course the Wicked Grace scene. I know it is just one scene but I think it helps set the feeling of group a lot;

We also get robbed of emotional moments for Rook. We do not see the companions trying to get them out of the fade, or worrying about Rook, or expressing their worries to him (ex. Dorian and Vivienne).

In general the structure of the lighthouse banter also makes it seem like all the companions meet each other all the time, but not Rook.

[skelebellie]

desiderium

emmrich volkarin x gender neutral mournwatch!rook

a/n: my last poll solrook vs emmrich ended, and emmrich won. so here’s a treat since im not as busy right now (for 24 hrs). i see a lot of fics making emmrich as some sort of master sex man, but i think there are some real insecurities that would arise out of an age difference relationship. also- i wanted to write carnally down bad rook. also exploring mournwatch rook.

rook does not have any physical descriptors

Warning: Mature. No explicitly sexually themes, suggestive content. slight angst w/ comfort. fluff?

i.e. rook gets FREAKY

Rook settled into Emmrich’s chair comfortably. Their feet pulled underneath them as they poured over one of his tomes. Before his joining, Rook was left throwing stones off the edge of the Lighthouse to see how far they could keep an eye on it before it blipped out into the endless sea of the fade. Emmrich settled at the end of his desk, flipping through a series of scrolls and papers detailing a recent surge of events through the fade. Even if he wasn’t in the Grand Necropolis, he tended to keep busy. It wasn’t the most exciting thing, reading in the presence of their partner, but it was a welcomed contrast to the insanity that followed with fighting ancient elven gods. While Varric described them as a straight thinker and often getting themselves into more trouble than good, it was nice to take off the mask.

However, anxieties were bubbling under the surface regarding their relationship with Emmrich. Nothing remarkably concerning, but they sensed some form of… hesitation. Emmrich had made it very clear how much they loved them, and their neck wasn’t safe from a surprise kiss or the gentle whisper of words. However, outside of that, their romance had been relatively tame. Not that it had upset them, they both had agreed to take it slow. Rook hadn’t been in a previous relationship, as they were far too busy under the Mourn Watch to consider the notion in the past.

For all purposes, Emmrich was exceptionally transparent with their relationship. Even so, Emmrich seemed- how did Harding describe it- mopey? Languid kisses ended earlier, his hands hesitated, and some nights they were even denied the comforting embrace of their lover arms.

Which lead to the moment before them, Rook’s eyes locked onto Emmrich as he continued to read. Only stopping to make eye contact with Rook, the flames of the fireplace dancing across his skin.

“You’re starring, dear.” Emmrich commented, raising his head lightly, the glint of his glasses catching against the golden ember of the room.

“It’s hard not too when you’re so distracting.” Rook responded, closing their book and giving Emmrich a cheeky grin.

“Your compliments find me at the most unique moments.”

Emmrich's words were always well constructed. Even at their most focused Rook could barely knock him off his feet with their flirting. However, Rook also became keenly aware that Emmrich wouldn’t accept said compliment.

Truthfully, it frustrated them to no end. Since they hadn’t escalleted their relationship, Rook made a point to constantly praise Emmrich. It was impairitive that he understand how much they loved him. Especially with the continued teasing from the rest of the group.

A silence fell between the two. However, unlike the prior calm, an air of unpleasantness settled. Emmrich’s eyes stared at Rook as the cogs in their brain ticked and spun.

“Do you not desire me sexually, Emmrich?” Rook responded, voice rather blunt for such a crude comment. Instead of being filled with frustration, their face fell to curiosity- understanding. Rook wasn’t unaware of the different forms of love that were followed across Thedas. Sex didnt equal love, and not all love had to involve sex. So while their initial comment was one meant to open the doors to a productive conversation, it may have come off as accusatory.

“Excuse me?” Emmrich responded, shock evident across his creased eyebrows.

“Do you feel sexual attraction to me? Arousal? Excitement at the idea of my naked”, They rambled, before being swiftly cut off.

“Im well aware of what you mean. What Im wondering is why you would ask such a thing?” His voice turned serious, slightly intimidated at the conversation at hand.

Emmrich had his own demons. He was an accomplished necromancer, reasercher, and professor. But in the ways of long-term love, he had his own failings. Prior to meeting Rook, he had accepted that he would be entombed alone. And while he did love Rook, there were lingering doubts about their relationship.

Could he keep up with Rook? They were much younger, and lacked experience- would it have been better for them to get with someone like Davrin or Taash? Live out the fleeting moments of sexual exileration and lust from a partner their age? Was he fulfilling their needs, or was in inadvertently tying them down? Emmrich had no discourse concerning the age difference, other than the time they would spend apart. Was it selfish of him to love such a young beauty, only to leave them behind? Did Rook even desire him in that way- or was he far from what they wanted physically?

These questions riddled his brain until the night fell silent. And while Emmrich considered himself calm and collected, these worries had inadvertently began to affect the way the treated Rook. Hesitation and doubt imbued with his touch like a sickening virus.

Rook returned a less serious look to Emmrich. “You’ve been hesitant. I dont find your hand on my waist as often, and the physical contact between us has been few and far between. I even walked in earlier this week with some of my buttons undone and you had the gall to button it back up.”

“Im not mad- I understand relationships all take different shapes and forms. But I felt it was a point we needed to address.” They replied, their gaze softening at Emmrich. While they had enough confidence to rival that of Solas’, there was something disheartening at the idea that your partner didnt feel attracted to you. Let alone not find you desirable.

Emmrich’s voice came out soft, and apologetic.

“Oh Dear,” He said quietly, raising up from his seat and discarding his paperwork as he made his way across his quarters. Arriving infront of Rook, taking the book out of their hands and placing it onto the side table. Replacing the leather bound texture with the smoothness of his hands.

“It’s not like that at all. I had no idea I had been coming across as prudish- it’s just that-“, His voice failed him momentarily. Emmrich wasn’t shy, his sexual past was quite adventurous compared to his peers. But for some reason, the daunting idea of not being enough was sufficient to cause doubt within him. His fingertips rubbing over Rook’s palms as he thought.

“Of course I find you attractive. I find myself staring at you when you aren’t looking, unable to peel my eyes away from you- afraid to miss the smallest detail about you. My desire for you, both mind and body, bubbles beneath my skin in the most inappropriate of times.” He coughed out, albeit a bit embarrassed at the sudden confession.

A gentle sigh escaped Emmrich’s nose.

“It’s just that I worry. Nothing more than the ramblings of an older man.” He replied, aiming to settle the conversation with minimal details.

Although, this would not work on Rook. They had spent far too many nights solving the problems of their teammates. And their relationship with Emmrich made it even more transparent to them that something was on his mind.

“Love, please, talk to me.” Rook whispered, standing up from their seat to meet their eyes with Emmrich’s. A pleading look engrained from their eyes to the deepest part of their soul.

A silent moment passed between them, the necromancers shoulders relaxing as a breath he didnt even know he was holding escaped. He didnt want to bother his lover with such trivial things, but he found that they often wormed their way in anyhow. Grateful to be a shoulder of understanding and acceptance. Quietly, he pulled Rook back towards his desk, guiding them with a gentle grip. As he pulled his partner closer, he settled himself at the edge of his desk, shortening himself just enough so that they were eye level with each other.

“It’s not that I don’t find you absolutely enticing, far from it. More so, I am worried about my own endeavors.” Emmrich babbled, his eyes falling to the hands he cradled within his own. Admiring the contrast of his grave jewelry amongst Rooks skin.

“Such as?” Rook asked.

“I find that there are looming doubts within me. That I may not be enough for you- physically. There are far younger individuals who could fulfill my place. At my age, there are much more… compatible suitors. for you” He admitted.

Rook looked back at Emmrich, their face filled with worry. It’s not as if this thought hadn’t crossed their mind. Although, their worries didnt involve their compatibility, sexually or otherwise. They were far more worried about how others would view Emmrich, or if they were fulfilling his needs.

But the momentary falter in their gaze drove Emmrich’s stomach to the bottom of his abdomen. Their hesitancy a personal confirmation of his deepest doubts.

“I see you have your own doubts. I knew It was selfish of me to-“ He responded, gently pushing back against Rook. Only to be met with a force pushing against him, keeping him against the edge of the desk.

“Emmrich, you are not the one who decides who and what I am attracted to.” Rook responded firmly, tone absent of their usual jovial and forgiving nature. Honestly, it shocked Emmrich to see this side of them, the one usually reserved for the battlefield- for a leader.

“I am not ignorant of our differences in age. But do not think for a moment that you had “tricked” me into anything. I knew very well what I was getting into when I decided to pursue you.” They responded, a gentle yet firm hand coming up to rest underneath Emmrich’s chin, closing the small space between the two. Rooks eyes shifted their gaze from soft to an almost peering look. Looking across Emmrich’s face with rigid admiration, as if viewing one of the hundreds of phantasmal paintings that covered the Grand Necropolis.

“It would be amiss of me to not recongnize that being raised by skeletons and spirits in the Grand Necropolis turned my attraction to an… older audience. One that I can assure you fall into.” Rook divulged. Their thumb running across the bottom of Emmrich’s lip, admiring the way the muscle gave way to their finger.

“Darling, I didn’t intend to assume…” Emmrich whispered, his hands settling on their lowers hips given their proximity. Rooks gaze alighting a rumbling heat in his pelvis. There was something about Rooks eyes- the look belonging not to some hesitant, inexperienced lover. Rather, someone who knew exactly what they wanted.

“And yet you did.” Rook responded, shortening the distance between the two until Emmrich was forced to place a hand on his desk in order to maintain his balance.

“I can assure you, I am not without my desires. I am simply good at hiding them. I may be inexperienced, dear, but I am not unknowledgeable about what I want. I just thought it would better to keep said intentions to myself until we discussed it further. However, Im beginning to understand that you are a man of action, not words.” They continued, their hand traveling across the outside of Emmrichs thigh, fingers dancing along the side seam in a manner that caused his leg to shake.

“Must I show you my hunger? Reveal to you the heat that scorches my body until it’s the only thing I think about? How some days you leave my thoughts reduced to its only basic instinct?”

Rooks hand continued upwards, palming across Emmrich’s abdomen as he let out belittled breaths in return. The skillful hands of a mortalitasi unbuttoning his exterior vest to untuck his undershirt. Rooks head dipped into the crook of Emmrich’s neck, quickly removing the skull lapel across his neck to unbutton the top buttons of his undershirt. Needing to pay hommeage to the caratoid artery that kept the object of their desire alive. Belated breaths tickling across the pale skin before them. Tantalising close, as their own wants teetered out from under their control.

“Dearest- I- Please-“ Emmrich responded, his words finally reaching Rooks ears as his other hand clenched across their back. Torn between an embrace and halting them all together.

Softly, Rook’s hand drifted under his shirt, teasing at skin they couldn’t see. There was something arousing about finally getting to touch the skin Emmrich constantly kept covering up. Their feelings at odds with each other as they took the moment to explore. Dip their fingers into his back dimples and forgotten scars as if ingraining it within their memory for a later day. Although, their attention would quickly return to Emmrichs neck. Planting hungry kisses down to his trapezoid, far below the collar.

“Desire is a fools word, Professor. What I feel towards you is not as simple as a want- it’s an obsession. I need you just as much as the blood beneath my skin and the air in my lungs. If I could, I would devour you until we were one and the same.” Rook recounted, before planting wet kisses along the crevices of Emmrich’s life line. Alternating between biting and sucking the skin. Drowning the room out before them in a mixture of heated gasps, soft moans, and the until the fire within Rooks stomach settled into a gentle simmer. Their back only slightly sore from Emmrich’s grasp, before they finally leaned back. Revealing the dischevled Professor, his hair tussled and sweat on his brow. Not that rook looked any better.

Rook paused for a moment, allowing them both to catch their breath, before they removed the hand underneath Emmrich’s under clothes and placing it against his cheek. Relishing in the feeling of stubble just beneath their palm.

“I assume I have been quite demonstrative as towards my intentions?” Rook responded.

Emmrich could only give a wide eyed look, his face teetering on embarrassment and arousal. Shock could barely describe the revelation he just had.

“I think you’ve been quite clear, dear.”

[stankhole]

predictions for veilguard romances under the cut. would love to hear what you guys think will happen with the characters

davrin

confident and seems like the type that would immediately flirt back

would use assan playing cute as a way to pick up dates

later you find out the sad reasoning behind why he left his clan & joined the wardens

taash

her wearing armor reminiscent of the shokra-taar/antaam-saar makes me think she’s a qunari still following the qun

she’s initially only interested in a physical relationship and has to work through her upbringing under the qun to become comfortable with a romantic relationship

wants to ride rook’s bones to dust after they take down a dragon the first time

harding

she feels like she has an obligation to the inquisition/rook/varric/whatever organization she’s a part of so she’s initially hesistant to enter into a relationship. she’s been a forward scout for so long she’s used to being all work and no play so when you flirt with her she enjoys it but doesn’t take it too seriously, she’s been traveling with varric recently so she’s used to it after all

she’s also confused because of the magical powers she gains and is afraid of hurting rook since she can’t control them

you help her get control of her magic/figure out where it’s from and you bone

lucanis

virgin

been raised to be a perfect assassin so he doesn’t know what to do when someone shows genuine interest in him

since he was raised to take over as the next talon, he’s used to having his life planned out for him so when he gets the freedom of making his own choices he doesn’t really know what to do

final romance flag is either after he tells his grandmother he doesn’t want to be the new talon or after his cousin finds out he’s not dead

please let him mention zevran, even if just in passing

bellara

sunny and goofball personality, likes to make their lover laugh

very intelligent, a big history nerd and would love to take you to romantic places in arlathan and give romantic ancient gifts

thrill seeker, first kiss scene happens after doing something reckless, be that a veil jump or boss fight

emmrich

grandpa thinks he’s too old for you and you deserve someone younger, but when you don’t back down you realize that peepaw absolutely ~ f u c k s ~

married to his job for the past 30 years, his only friends are his skeletal assistants

manfred will absolutely walk in on you two getting busy at some point

i hope desire demons make a comeback and show up in his story

somehow knows cassandra; is like her 5th uncle 3 times removed

neve

knows what she wants and isn’t going to hesitate if you show interest in her

but will not be fully invested in the relationship aspect at first because of her cynicism. eventually comes around when she realizes how devoted you are to making minrathous/the world a better place

has worked with dorian/ dorian is an informant for her

god bioware please give her a dwarven strap that matches her prosthetic. she’d be unstoppable 🙏🏻

[mercars-musings]

Will You Fall In Love With Me Again?

Fandom: Dragon Age - The Veilguard

Pairing- Emmrich Volkarin x TransMan!Rook {OC in particular}

TW- depicted: anxiety, self doubt, briefly mentioned psychological torture, failed attempt at calming ones self down from anger, self doubt; genre: reunion, hurt/comfort, angst, angst with happy ending, fluff. ~MAJOR SPOILERS FOR THE END OF VEILGUARD ~

Description-

After trying to claw his way out of the fade for the past 7 years, Rook is pulled back into Thedas only to be confronted by the fact that time passes differently outside of the Fade.

{Aka. Rook is mentally decemated by his time in the Fade which leads to him & Emmrich having a heart to heart about how much they love eachother.} Ps. The title of this fic comes curtosey of my hyperfixation on Epic the Musical & the fact I can't listen to "Will You Fall In Love with Me" from the Ithica saga without thinking of these two fuckers ;-;

Word count- 3.6k

Read on AO3: Here!

~ ♡ ~

An unfamiliar chill settles deep within Rook's bones, raising the proverbial hackles on the back of his neck.

Cool air was nothing new, Rook had experienced the unreasonable coldness of the fade for years at this point. Every waking moment he spent there was accompanied by the numbness of exposed skin and the crystallisation of stray tears on his cheeks. Both being an unfortunate aspect of the new reality he had found himself in.

The coolness he was experiencing now, however, was far from the norm. This coolness prickled at his skin, stabbing into his muscles as if reawakening the nerves that had long since desensitised. It was rejuvenating in a sense. Rook might have actually welcomed the feeling if his mind wasn't already preoccupied with well… whatever the hell that was.

Just ahead of Rook, the air had begun to ripple and fluctuate. The entire fabric of the fade had begun stretching & contorting in gorgeous hues of blue & silver; the low crackling noise that emanated from it intensified with each new fracture beginning to form at the edges. It tugged at the world around Az, threatening to claw something unknown into existence. The view would be hypnotising if it wasn't so nerve wracking to see in the usually impenetrable walls of the fade.

Nothing could snap Az out of his terrified awestruck stare, that was until a loud crash ricocheted through the fade & a strikingly familiar hand burst through the centre of the disruption, with a fervour that could only be described as desperate and frantic.

"Is that…" Rook breaths, his voice catching in his throat before he could finish his thought.

"I believe that's your queue kid." A husky voice chimed in from behind him.

After a few seconds of stunned silence, Az eventually looked over at his friend. He watched as a sad smile tugged at the dwarf's lips & a knowing look glinted in his eyes.

There's no fucking way… after all this time… ?

"ROOK!" A voice that Az had almost begun to forget screamed through the fade tear, "DARLING! FOLLOW MY VOICE!"

"It's not very nice to keep your friends waiting," the shorter man continued, nodding towards the rupture in the fade. "Or do you want to spend another 7 years flirting with frostbite?"

Az knew it was a joke, but it still seemed to help him finally snap out of the surprisingly comfortable haze he'd spent the last… Gods know how long, stuck in.

There was no way in Hell that he would spend another second in here longer than he had to.

Without another word, Rook dropped to his knees, throwing his arms around the Dwarf & pulling him in for the tightest hug he could possibly manage in his fatigued state.

"I'll miss you Varric", he mumbled after a few moments, once tears began to sting at the corners of his eyes.

Varric chuckled lightly as he returned the hug, tightening his grip around the younger mans shoulders for the next few moments.

"I'll miss you too kid… now will you get the hell out there & stop whatever shit chuckles' is up to this time?"

Rook snorted at the comment, slowly letting go of Varric before rising to his knees & giving a faux salute. However, before he could finish his jest, the crackling of the tear suddenly turned into ragged sputtering.

"We can't hold it open much longer-" Emmrich's voice echoed through the tear, before he was cut off by a more aggressive yell from the Veilguard's resident scout.

"Rook where the hell are you!?"

With that, Az turned on his heels and began to run at full speed towards the tear. Only glancing back momentarily to see Varric's form slowly dissipate into the rest of the fade as Rook was dragged forward & back into his own world.

~

Rook stumbled forward, barely able to keep himself from falling face first into the cobbled stone beneath him. Though, only just, as he instead felt himself crash onto his knees. Az didn't mind though, the coarse rubble that had begun to cut its way into the calloused joints helped ground him. The searing pain contrasted the almost numb aches he felt back in the fade, letting him know that wherever he was now, he was at least somewhere that let him be more grounded in his body.

"Rook…?" He heard the familiar voice from earlier, though this time it featured a hint of uncertainty.

Still somewhat dazed, Rook looked up towards the noise, only to be met with a face he'd never in his wildest dreams thought he'd get to see again. Wordlessly, Az stared up at the older man, his eyes widening into saucers as his chest swelled with something he hadn't felt for quite some time.

Hope.

However, the hope was soon joined by a wave of confusion as the man's eyes fully adjusted to the light.

Everyone looked… exactly as Rook remembered them.

Not similar, not very close, exactly the same. Like, no more than a month had passed since… but it had been years. Rook knew it had been years, he's felt the ache of every single day passing him by as he stayed trapped in the Fade, helpless to save his friends… his world…

After a few moments, Az realised everyone was still staring at him in wait.

He'd forgotten to answer Emmrich, of course he had. No more than a few moments out of the Fade and Az was already acting like a fool again.

Rook opened his mouth to try and offer some form of an answer. Though, no matter how hard he tried nothing seemed to be coming out, it's as if all the screaming he'd done in the fade had torn his vocal chords to shreds, and now outside of the Fade his body was finally able to reflect that.

Unfortunately, the pain in his throat was only the beginning. Soon Rook felt his limbs begin to weigh heavily and his joints start to grate. His stomach ached & his head began to swim as if his body was finally being crushed by the weight of the exhaustion that had made itself at home in his bones for so long.

Before anyone knew what was happening, Rook collapsed forward onto an astonished Emmrich once again. Unable to stay conscious for much longer, Az mustered up the strength to utter one final, disbelieving phrase.

"You came for me…"

~

Upon opening his eyes, Rook tiredly looked around him, taking in the dark grey landscape that expanded far beyond his view. The cold air nipped at his skin once again as a familiar numbness began to seep back into his bones.

Az bowed forward, as the realisation dawned on him, his body shook as his frame curled in on itself and tears stung the corners of his eyes anew.

He hadn't escaped.

He'd just fallen for another one of the prisons cruel tricks.

How could he be so foolish as to think that he'd actually make it out of here? Never mind back into the arms of the man he ached so deeply for.

Frustration bubbled beneath the surface as Az trembled in place, the rage that he had managed to subdue during his first few years in the Fade was now starting to claw its way back up into his mind yet again.

In an attempt to stave it off, Rook shakily raised a hand to his chest, pressing lightly into the middle of it as he tried to remember the breathing exercises that Emmrich had taught him all those years ago.

In for 3… hold for 3… out for 3… & Repeat.

The years he had spent in the Fade hadn't been kind; during each & every moment he had been plagued with his doubts, his fears & his regrets. With each step he took he was reminded of every failure in his life & with each breath he was reminded of the good that he would never get to experience again.

So of fucking course this was just another trick.

In for 3… hold for 3… out for 3… Repeat.

Why not right?

Nothing in this Gods forsaken place would ever let him go.

In for 3… hold… out for 3…

It was a prison built for Gods, and Rook was no God.

Of course he wouldn't be able to escape.

In for 3… hold…

The odds were stacked against him, as always.

It wasn't fair.

None of this was fair.

In for 3…

All he had ever tried to do was help others: help Tevinter do better, help Varric find Solas, help his friends battle their own demons, help the world save itself from the worst of the worst.

And what was his reward?

Torture.

And with that thought, the rage had officially gnawed its way into his throat and he had to let it out before it consumed him once and for all.

~

An ear splitting, heart wrenching scream ripped its way through Rook as he lurched upright. The scream wracked its way through his body, racketing through his already tender vocal chords and into the dim light of the room he found himself in.

Az might've started to panic that the darkness that surrounded him was just more of the fade, if there wasn't a sudden dip in the bedding to the left of him. The new & independent movement caused Rook's head to snap in it's direction, only for him to be greeted by a silhouette that he hadn't seen in years.

Due to his stint in the darker parts of the Fade, Az's eyes were able to adjust to the dimness of the room quite quickly & after a few moments his breath painfully caught in his throat.

It was Emmrich.

"Darling, are you alright?" His Amatus' cooed.

Rook barely heard the question though, between the pounding of his heart & the blood rushing through his ears it was a wonder how he could hear anything honestly. So, instead of answering, he simply stared incredulously at the man before him, trying to process his words.

Was he alright?

After a few moments, Rook shook his head slightly, trying to push past the adrenaline pumping through every limb of his body.

"What happened? W-where's Elgar'nan?" Az managed to choke out, his throat still seemingly sensitive from whatever damage it had sustained in the fade.

Emmrich raised his hand slowly, cautiously hovering it over Az's as he waited for some form of confirmation from the Qunari. Instead of saying anything, Rook simply raised his own hand to meet Emmrich's & in return the older man immediately interwove his fingers with Rook's.

"Dearest, it's okay. Nothing has happened yet." Emmrich answered in a hushed tone, seemingly trying to keep his voice quiet enough to not startle his lover any further.

"W-what do you mean nothing's happened yet?" Az sputtered.

Nothing means, he's still out there. But if he's still out there how are they still in Emmrich's room in the lighthouse? Wouldn't he have levelled half of existence by now?

"We're still looking for him Az," Emmrich began, placing his free hand on Rook's cheek. "Which means we're safe."

"We're safe," Az muttered back, half in response to his lover & half in an attempt to convince himself.

It didn't make any sense, did the team and Elgar'nan enter a stalemate after they'd taken Ghilan'nain off of the board?

If they had, surely the stalemate couldn't still be happening, it had been years… but Emmrich wouldn't lie… not to Rook and definitely not about something this serious.

Although everything in his body screamed at Rook that there had to be a mistake, that none of it made sense… Rook was weaker than he'd like to admit. The idea that things hadn't completely gone to shit in the last few years was too tempting… and the idea that Emmrich was lying to him was too much to bear right now.

So, any argument he tried to form simply died on his tongue, and after a few minutes of trying to protest, Az's better judgement became easily overridden by his desire to lean further into Emmrich's touch.

The necromancer's gentle touch was a feeling Rook had almost begun to forget, though feeling it again seemed to thrust the memories back to the forefront. Warm, soft hands… eyes full of genuine adoration… the scent of Lavender & freshly turned dirt. The latter meant he must have visited the Necropolis recently, good to know that it was still around.

Taking a few seconds to reacquaint himself with his lover's features, Az's eyes traced along every crease that had been earned over years of life; every freckle whether it had been there the day Emmrich was born or whether it simply appeared one random Tuesday; and every well, everything that had made itself at home on his Kadan's face.

Enamoured wasn't a strong enough word…

Seemingly amused by how enraptured Rook had become, Emmrich brushed his thumb against Az's cheek, tightening his other hands grip in Rook's own hand.

"I've missed you so much Darling."

A gentle blush began to spread along Rook's cheeks as he tried to tear his eyes away from Emmrich sheepishly, though he'll admit he had done a pretty shit job at it since his eyes didn't even really budge.

It had always been so hard to look away from that man.

Sadly, all this wonderful bliss still couldn't fully silence Rook's cascading thoughts, especially not…

"Please… tell me this is real." Az blurted out, practically begging for the reassurance as he tightened his grip around Emmrich's hand. Tears began to sting at the corners of his eyes again, threatening to break the dam that kept them at bay.

In response, Emmrich simply leaned forward and pressed a gentle kiss against the corner of Rook's eye, seeming to stop one of the tears in its tracks.

Az blinked momentarily, tears slowly starting to roll down his other cheek before wordlessly, falling into the necromancer. Sobs started to rack their way through his body yet again, though this time, for a very different reason.

He was home…

His joints ached as his body trembled against Emmrich's, though the pain could be a problem for future Rook, for now all Rook cared about was finally being able to hold his lover again.

Emmrich wrapped his arms around the larger gentleman, moving the hand he was using to hold Rook's cheek and placing it on his back. Slowly he rubbed circles on the Qunari's back in a motion that he knew Az had always found comforting.

"I never… I can't believe I'm here" Rook managed to choke out after a few moments.

"Nor I, dearest." Emmrich whispered, smiling slightly as Rook raised his head and their eyes met once more. "I was worried I'd never get to see that charming smile of yours again."

This earned another blush from Az as he felt his stomach flip slightly in the way that only a heartfelt compliment from Emmrich could make it.

"How… how long?" Az finally thought to ask, once his shyness subsided.

"Two weeks…" Emmrich sighed, shifting his gaze to their still interlocked digits momentarily before returning his gaze back to the man before him.

"Two-?" Az choked out, jolting backwards slightly as his wide eyes met Emmrich's sad ones.

The pair sat in silence as Rook's brain tried to work it's way through the answer he'd been presented with. The utterly ridiculous, observably incorrect answer…

Two weeks…

Two weeks?

But… how?

Rook knew it had been longer than that, he had lived it for fucks sake.

And then, a skin crawling thought, wriggled its way into Az's mind.

Breaking from Emmrich's embrace, Rook swung around and frantically opened the bedside cabinets. He flailed his hand around in each cabinet until he found the old hand mirror that he knew the professor kept nearby for emergencies.

Emmrich snapped his fingers which brought the lamp on the bedside table to life, seemingly knowing exactly what Rook was trying to do.

As the Qunari's face came into view in the mirror, a gasp caught in his throat.

He looked like absolute shit, which was to be expected after how long he'd been in the Fade alone. Though, what really alarmed him was the obvious signs of ageing that had now made themselves known on his features: his pink hair was now mostly greyed; deep wrinkles that were once only noticeable when Rook had slept particularly awfully were ever present; his face was paler; new cuts were making their way into scars; & his makeup had long since faded.

He looked early thirties now while Emmrich still looked…

"Emm…" Rook mumbled, realisation setting in that his lover {give or take a few extra bags under his eyes} looked the exact same as he had the day that Rook…

And with that, the dam broke once more.

"Gods, these fucking tears!" Az growled through gritted teeth, using his free hand to aggressively brush them away. "You'd think I'd be too fucking dehydrated to cry after…"

The words get stuck in his throat as all the pain & fear that surrounded him in the Fade returned two fold, crashing down on him as tried to wrap his head around the shifting of his world yet again.

"… after 7 years." Az finally muttered in disbelief.

Emmrich's eyes widened at the length of time Rook had seemingly been left alone in the fade to suffer while he - the so called "Fade Expert" - had floundered to find an entrance into the prison.

Now, Emmrich was no fool, clearly his beloved had aged somewhat, meaning longer than Two weeks had definitely passed by for him but… 7 years? That's almost the entire length of time it took for Emmrich to earn his professorship!

"My dear…" Emmrich was the one to choke on his words this time, "I am so sorry I wasn't able to find you sooner… to save you from…" Pausing, Emmrich seemed to weigh his options before he finally settled on the question he needed an answer to the most. "What happened?"

Az wanted to joke: say something that would make Emmrich smile again, something that would cut through the heavy feeling settling in his own chest and making him feel like he would all but suffocate under all of the days revelations. But… after seeing the genuine concern etched into his partners features, Rook decided that he would try to be brave & answer genuinely for a change.

"Nothing… good." He sighed, "the things I saw… the grief I felt… I don't know- how to… explain it." Rook admitted, turning his gaze down as his hand found its way back to Emmrich's and the men interlocked their fingers once more.

Emmrich's energy shifted after Rook's admission, changing to be more comfort oriented rather than fear centred. He couldn't change how long it had taken them to rescue Az but he could certainly be there for the man for as long as the spirits allowed.

"Take all the time you need my Darling Boy," Emmrich cooed, taking Rook's chin in his free hand & gently raising it so the younger gentleman was eye to eye with him again. "However long you need… I'll be here for you."

A short breath left Az as their eyes met, the Qunari seemingly freezing in place momentarily.

"Are you sure?"

Emmrich raised an eyebrow slightly, confusion now painting his features. "Of course Az, why wouldn't I be?"

"I'm not the same person," Rook croaked, "The pain, the fear, the rage it… it helped me survive in there but now that I'm out- I'm not sure… I don't think I know how to- to deal with it all. And I don't expect…"

Az trailed off, unable to continue speaking his train of thought aloud in fear that he would let slip the fear that had been squirming at the back of his mind since he'd realised he really had escaped the Fade.

"Az… talk to me. Please" Emmrich pleaded, concern lacing every word once again.

He was really bad at pretending not to be concerned, pretending not to be freaked out… well pretending anything really. He was an awful liar, it was something Az found so incredibly adorable about his Amatus. It used to brighten his day but… not right now.

Right now, Az was scared.

"What if… what if you hate the new me?" Rook asked, his voice barely a whisper at this point.

Emmrich's eyes softened as his partners words sunk in.

Of course Rook's self doubt would return stronger now than ever before, especially after all the torment he'd just been through.

"I do think it's far too late for that possibility to rear its ugly head, Dearest." The necromancer answered, slowly moving his hand from Rook's chin to brush a piece of greying hair behind the Qunari's ear.

A light blush formed across Az's cheeks once again, causing a smile to dance across Emmrich's lips as he continued. "I've fallen much too hard… I fear I shall fall in love with every single version of you My Dear."

A moment passed as Emmrich's answer settled over the two gentlemen, and although Rook knew it would be a long time before he could truly believe it, it seemed like this was all the confirmation he needed for right now.

Before he could really register what his body was doing, Az found his free hand had made its way to Emmrich's waist coat, grabbing a hold of it and pulling the necromancer closer as their lips crashed into each other. Az ignored the shooting pain in his joints in favour of relishing in the love of the man he had spent the last 7 years dreaming of.

Responding just as emphatically, Emmrich lurched forward though, slightly to the side of Rook, placing himself further into the bed. He deepened the kiss as he pulled Rook into him, opting to be the one to take the brunt of the weight, as they fell deeper into each other.

Both men's chests swelled with a warm feeling that they both had missed dearly in their time apart.

Love.

[svartalfhild]

ooo either 12 or 20 please :3

I'm going to see if I can combine these.

12. nervous embarrassment around them (blushing, fidgeting etc) 20. clumsy attempts at flirting

Rook didn't want to admit it to a single soul, living or dead, but she was completely out of her depth when it came to romance. It had always seemed like something other people did and usually only in novels.

She'd grown up in the Grand Necropolis where romantic love was the purview of the dead or grieving, and even amidst the Mourn Watch, well, she hadn't been social enough to witness romance in action between her colleagues. She'd always been strange, even for a Mourn Watcher, as the elf crypt foundling with ghostly white hair and eyes, and thus she'd always found it easier to befriend spirits than people.

Then she'd been cast out for her own safety. And Varric had taken her in, given her new purpose, and taken her all over Thedas. Even after a year, so much of the world and the intricacies of interpersonal relationships were new to her. She was a quick learner, though, and she liked to think she was a decent actor too, capable of pretending she was normal, even if she didn't exactly look it.

Varric and Harding had helped her a lot at first. They were gentle in correcting her blunders, for which she was eternally grateful. She still winced at the memory of the etiquette teacher she'd had growing up. Of course, that class had been meant to prepare young Watchers for behaving appropriately with the bereaved and the nobility. Common folk were a bit more forgiving, she'd found, as long as you were laid back, kind, and had a sense of humor. It worked really well for Varric and Harding, and it worked really well for her too, especially once she learned to stop casually using what Varric called "gold coin words" and mentioning anything to do with death or funerary practices.

After they'd come to the Lighthouse, though, things had changed. Rook was in charge now. Varric was bedridden, and she couldn't constantly be running off to the infirmary for advice he may not even have the energy to give. Harding was available, but Rook didn't want to disturb her too much, since she had a lot going on with the whole Titan magic thing. Rook just needed to toughen up and learn to handle things herself. She was a grown woman. She should be able to figure out social dynamics on her own, especially now that she knew she could rely on her positive attitude and helpful nature to deal with difficult situations.

Romance, though. That was a different animal, one she'd never thought she'd personally encounter. But then she'd met Emmrich, and all the work she'd done to appear socially competent just sort of went directly out the window. Or perhaps more accurately, right over the balcony of his beautifully appointed tower. He was just so...so...talented and knowledgeable and handsome and caring and dapper and well-spoken and generous and patient and...well, attractive. It didn't matter that he was twice her age. Her brain slid out her nose, skipped away, and left the building whenever he so much as said a nice thing to her. For some bizarre reason she did not yet understand, her gut reaction was to try to flirt with him, even though she had no practice at it, and her understanding of flirting was entirely based on things she'd read in fiction.

That being said, she felt she wasn't too bad at it. He hadn't reacted poorly to her flirting so far. In fact, though he often seemed surprised at first, he was always receptive. That didn't necessarily mean anything, though. For a while, she'd thought maybe he was just being kind and trying not to make her feel awkward because she was failing and he wasn't interested, but he still wanted to be friends with her. But then he'd told her he was interested and flirted with her so expertly that she'd been utterly swept away by it. And then he'd kissed her in the Memorial Gardens, and she knew she was so stupidly in love that there was absolutely no going back now.

So she kept at it.

One evening after returning from an excursion to Arlathan with Neve and Bellara, Rook snuck off towards Emmrich's tower while the others headed for the courtyard. She gave the door her unique little knock, and she heard his distant voice tell her to come in. She slipped inside and didn't see him in the immediate area of the study, so she nimbly climbed the spiral stairs to find him returning some books to the shelves.

"Hello," she greeted, trying to sound soft and a little sultry.

"Ah, Rook! How was your trip?" he responded cheerfully, tossing her a smile before shelving another book. She approached him in what she hoped was a casual manner. Was it always so warm in the tower? She didn't remember it ever being this warm. Her hands were sweating.

"Oh, you know. Magical. Like Arlathan always is." She gave a little chuckle, one which she hoped came across as charming and not nervous. Not that long ago, she would have just launched into a monologue about all the exciting magical phenomena she'd encountered in the forest, but these days, she was committed to being a bit more charismatic than that. "I got you something." She reached into the back of her cinch belt and pulled out a purple flower with a bent stem to hold it out to Emmrich. Her smile faltered when she noticed the bent stem, and she swallowed the swear that wanted to burst from her lips. Emmrich fully looked over at her after quickly sliding the last book into place, and a grin instantly spread across his distinguished features.

"Oh, how lovely! Cyclamen hederifolium! Thank you, darling!" He stepped closer to her and gently took the flower from her, his fingers brushing against hers and making her heart flutter.

"Sorry it's bent. I had to tuck it in my belt and I didn't notice until just now," Rook blurted out. Shit, that was awkward. She needed to find a way to recover. "I saw them while we were walking and thought of you, so I picked one," she added, attempting a casual lean against the nearest bookcase. Sure, that worked.

"How sweet," Emmrich replied, giving the bloom a sniff, his hazel eyes never leaving her as he did so. He then straightened the bend in the stem and swiped a fingertip over it. After a brief glow of green, the damage was repaired. "There. Nothing to trouble yourself over." Wow. She wished she knew how to do that. Maybe he could teach her. Oh, but as she watched him hold the flower, she realized he may not even have somewhere to put it. It wasn't a rose. It didn't have a long stem. He probably didn't have any pots small enough.

"I'll get a cup or something for you to put it in," she offered, straightening up and curling her fingers nervously.

"Ah." Emmrich halted her with the simple sound just as she began to turn to go, and stepped much closer to her, entering her space. "Not to worry, my dear. I know the perfect place for it," he told her softly before carefully tucking the purple cyclamen into her hair.

"O-Oh," she gasped, her ghostly pale cheeks instantly flushing pink. He brushed his fingertips down the side of her face when he was done, and she felt like she was going to melt into a puddle right then and there. Without even meaning to, she leaned closer to him, basking in the adoration that filled his gaze. "But the flower was for you," she said, her voice a little distant as she stared up at him.

"And I would like to see such a beautiful gift adorn the beautiful young woman who gave it to me." She gave him a dreamy smile at this, and her blush deepened.

"If that's what pleases you."

"It does indeed." Emmrich's fingers traced the edge of her jaw before settling under her chin and tilting her head up so he could easily lean down and kiss her.

Rook's last thought before all others abandoned her was that she must being doing this romance thing right if this was the result of her efforts.

[asharaks]

solas in DAI part 2 (the game)

read part one here!

so the vision for solas in DAI is, first of all, to bring his design closer to his concept art. while he carries himself the same (hunched, head down, making himself smaller), he’s a visibly brown man with a strong, slightly hooked nose and dark eyes. he is still masquerading as a humble elven apostate and still, absolutely, planning to tear the world apart, and completely willing to accept the deaths of millions as a consequence of his plan to tear down the Veil, but his motivations are no longer tied to a belief in the lack of sapience or personhood (for lack of a better term) of qunari, dwarves and even humans. instead, he is trying to stave off disaster: reinforcing the crumbling prison he’s locked his blighted peers away in as the blight eats them alive. they’re growing stronger, and more dangerous, in their agony, as the blight robs them too of the capacity for higher thought with which they were imbued as protector spirits, and solas has neither the heart to try to kill them and end their suffering nor the courage to risk attempting to cure them of blight, of which he is mortally afraid. similar to ‘actual’ DAI solas, he mirrors the inquisitor’s attitude towards him (which can be seen in his interactions with other companions, too), responding with suspicion and antagonism to an antagonistic inquisitor and open humility and generosity to a friendlier one, however, throughout the game he occasionally ‘tests’ the inquisitor through attempts at manipulation and leading questions/statements, and the inquisitor’s response determines his respect for them overall. he also still shows flashes of his former role as mythal’s capable lieutenant in times of urgent stress, assuming command decisively and with charisma that he doesn’t otherwise display. 

gone is his surprise at the individuality of qunari and dwarven players; and while he remains occasionally dismissive of elven culture (both city- and dalish), as the game progresses, it becomes increasingly apparent that this disregard is an expression of the guilt and responsibility he feels, seeing in them everything he has taken from them and everything he feels he is responsible for diminishing them to. the suffering of his people, per solas, is his fault, though he will not state this directly: the loss of immortality, the loss of the old magic and the incredible accomplishments, the loss of land and freedom; perhaps patronisingly, solas sees all of this as the inevitable consequence of his own failure, and at least at first struggles to see past this in his interactions with modern elven culture. 

though solas remains fully romanceable only by elves, as he is a character fixated on the plight of his own people, he can be romanced by lavellans of any gender, and flirt options for a ‘partial’ romance or a charged dynamic are available to all inquisitors; lavellan is his connection back to his own people, but all inquisitors are representations of his own failures and the increasingly steep price he pays to correct them to him, and accordingly he can become entangled (not necessarily healthy) with any version of them. he also maintains contentious relationships with the primary cast; he struggles with sera in particular, as an elf taught to hate elves and being elven through abuse and bigotry, his antagonism with her is laced with both condescension and self-recrimination, while, for example, he is much less affected (and even at times amused) by cassandra’s distrust. among the inquisition, he can grow to respect, among others, vivienne (disagreements with whom reliably make him angry as he sees himself as indisputably correct and her as someone more than smart, reasonable and compassionate enough to know better), cole and varric; however, none of these relationships — least of all his relationship with the inquisitor, even lavellan — can turn him off his path. he may care for them (may love lavellan in particular, who can push back on him significantly without sacrificing the romance), but until the plans he’s putting into motions fail, he simply can’t be brought to consider that he may be wrong, and the question lingers of just how capable he is of seeing even a romanced inquisitor as an individual person rather than as a personification of his mistakes. It’s only in Veilguard, trapped in the fade and able to interact with the world only through the medium of rook, that he can be effectively reasoned with. 

instead of having this final confrontation confined to a DLC, solas is brought into the main game as its final villain, with a corypheus figure (not corypheus. something hawke didn’t defeat with three disastrous friends and a prayer) as the ‘middle’ antagonist. the game ends on the loss of the inquisitor’s hand and solas’s disappearance in the midst of the culmination of the inquisitor’s influence on thedas (choice of divine, wardens, mage rebellion, disbanding the inquisition or not, etc).

(previous - solas in DAI part one)

[yes-these-obsessions-are-healthy]

DAI x BG3 matchups I need to see. I’m not good at writing crossovers nor am I clever at all. This is very much non-exhaustive and very much not the end point of these characters’ potential interactions with each other.

Karlach + Sera + Iron Bull

The absolute chaos. The absolute CHAOS. A powerhouse. Putting aside Karlach’s demon heritage aside, she and Iron Bull tossing back tankards and swapping war stories as vets that have been dealt shitty hands but continue to chug along despite it. Karlach and Sera connecting over growing up mainly on the streets and having soft spots for little ragamuffins. Plus they all talk about women’s tits a lot. I feel Sera would find Karlach sexy and funny.

Wyll + Cole

Like Solas and Varric, Wyll would take to Cole because he recognizes Cole’s desire to help others, even if his methods are a bit unorthodox. He would recognize Cole’s soul as gentle and kind, and his efforts to atone for the murders he committed in the Tower as proof of his humanity. He will join the Uncle-Dad Duo and complete the Uncle-Dad Trio. Cole would gravitate toward Wyll’s goodness in turn, and probably tell Wyll that him making a contract wasn’t foolish because in the end he saved a city, and if that was his desire, then he committed no sin in doing so.

Solas + Astarion

The messiest shit can only occur, and my messy bitch self wants to see it. Watch as Solas’s upright and stiff demeanor utterly bores Astarion. Watch as Astarion’s selfishness, penchant for violence, and casual disregard for the well-being of others utterly pisses Solas the fuck off. Watch as Astarion yawns or interrupts Solas’s lectures with a “yes, yes, we get it” or the most dramatic eyeroll and overwrought “ugh”. Watch as Solas and Astarion immediately sniff each other out as liars and schemers from first jump and hold each other at a distance, the tension spiking at random moments early in them knowing each other where the other prods at their falsehoods. Watch as Astarion is dumbfounded by Solas expressing his condolences to Astarion upon learning of Astarion’s enslavement to his master, because how could a man who holds such reproach for him still manage to feel pity? ‘It is not pity, but compassion, which you are at liberty to reject. That is your right as a free man, just as it is my right to feel it.’

In the best case scenario, Astarion calms down eventually, teasing Solas but still treating him like that friend of a friend that you grudgingly admit is useful. I think a part of Astarion would find Solas’s penchant dislike of him funny.

Vivienne + Astarion + Dorian

We are all doomed. The haughtiness will be scarcely contained. Dorian and Astarion are definitely flirting. Fucking? Not sure. But definitely flirting and enjoying killing bad guys, playfully arguing over wine, snickering over Solas’s shabby dress.

Shadowheart + Leliana

Tools forged to serve a religious order? Check. Crisis of faith? Check. Subterfuge preferred? Check.

Lae’zel + Cassandra

Soldiers recognizing soldiers. 🫡 ‘Why are the men around me so annoying.’

Minsc & Boo + Cole

Cole might be able to understand Boo! If not his speech, then his little hamster feelings. Minsc might be wary of Cole for the information that he manages to glean from Minsc’s head, but his unquestioned understanding of Boo would probably smooth that bump in the road, right?

Solas + Gale

A friend remarked that Gale would remind Solas too much of himself (prideful, ambitious) and thus they would not get along. There is that. I think that Gale would get a small smile out of Solas every now and then with his quips, because Solas himself is clearly a fan of banter; Gale would provide more of the energy in the same way Dorian does with his and Solas’s more civil banters. Gale and Solas also both hold a great measure of respect and adoration for magic as a force, an element, a piece of entirety that is beautiful for its own existence. Not simply just what magic can do for them as wielders of magic, but what it is and how it does so much to enhance a person’s understanding and interaction with the world, as precious as sight or sound.

Minthara + Iron Bull

Oh she will have him cowed in a goddamn minute. Oh man. Oh no. ‘Yes ma’am’, ‘no ma’am’.

Minthara + Cassandra

Oh this would be so interesting. Disciplined, serious bulwarks with little time for silly little men—Minthara would share Cassandra’s frustration and lack of amusement with Varric, though Cassandra would consider her suggestions to maim him.

Solas + Halsin + Iron Bull

I see potential here. Iron Bull and Solas already have a dynamic of Iron Bull’s “I have a pretty good idea of who you are, and it’s a liar” toward Solas, while Solas grudgingly respects Iron Bull’s strength and mental acumen in the same way you would respect a very intelligent bear—do not draw attention more than necessary, but stand tall lest it smell fear. Halsin feels like a softer Iron Bull, a mediation between the two. Like Iron Bull, his stature and build belies a thoughtful and sharp mind. Like Solas, he sees everything as connected, feeding into the other as part of a system, and would too feel a sense of loss at magic and mundane being so dramatically split as it is in Thedas—an aberration against what is natural. Also like Iron Bull, he’s frank with his sexuality. I’m certain the two would swap stories over booze. The trio would be arguably the three most mature and experienced in a room in any given situation. Not only that, but Halsin is far more actively in touch with his heart and honest with his feelings than Solas or Iron Bull. The latter two very much care about their loved ones, but with Solas it is under the surface and with Iron Bull it’s mixed up in cultural trappings of romance not being a “thing” in his culture, and thus both struggle with their feelings. Halsin however is very much in touch. There is next to nothing obstructing what his head and heart wants. He listens to his heart and he follows it. Solas and Iron Bull could learn a thing or two from him, tbh

Also I feel like Iron Bull, Halsin, and even Solas have a bit of a brat tamer streak in them so there’s that

Also Astarion would outright reject the notion of drinking Cullen’s blood cuz it smells like battery acid.

[xxcherrydevilxx]

Liquid Courage

Pairing & Fandom: Female Lavellan x Solas -Dragon Age Word count: 3,238 Warnings - slight lewd descriptions, otherwise pretty fluffy Summary

Solas keeps denying poor Lavellan's advances after settling into Skyhold, and she is getting a bit tired of it. A night drinking then stumbling into his sad little corner might be the push she needs to finally stop dancing around the question and just ask it, and also admit to herself that she is hopelessly in love despite trying not to be.

Author Notes: More brainrot on my lavellan, just reposting this to my Tumblr so the terminal illness can be seen by everyone everywhere for all time. Not fully proofread, several errors here and there but tada! Banner used below is by CafeKitsune!

“It's sad, he makes me sad when I look at him,” Lumine Lavellan grumbled beside Varric. He snorted as he continued to write down words in a letter, shaking his head lightly at Lumine’s glum expression. They had just settled into Skyhold and he was getting together some notes for his companions in Kirkwall. The casual “No I didn’t die,” and “Yes I’m staying with the Inquisition for a bit longer,” 

“That's curiosity, Charmer,” Varric replied with another swish of his quill against parchment and a flourish of gathering ink to begin yet another letter.

“No- well, perhaps, back at Haven…” She mumbles to herself. She was still half-slouched half-stood at the table beside her dwarf companion. He inclined his head to her, continuing to listen to her chatter. The background noise of Lumine was becoming his favorite sound in Skyhold. 

“But when he led us here, told me things about our people, I really started to wonder… he's alone, yet still so wise? How? Who taught him? What more does he know that he does not share and why-” she heaved a dramatic sigh, making his stack of papers flutter slightly but not become disarray. “-why he never joins us at the tavern, am I bad company, Varric? I think everyone pretty much likes me, I know he enjoys me when we discuss trivial things here and there- yet he never takes up my invitation for a drink?”

Varric pressed a hand to the back of his neck and let out another laugh at the poor young elf’s questions. He had to tell Hawke about this, it reminded him of her, in a strange way.

“Yes, Charmer, you are horrible company—that's why half of Skyhold follows your every flippant whim. " She shoved her shoulder into his playfully, making his quill slip and the letter he had almost finished being swallowed by ink with no intent. He pushed her back jokingly as he stood to fix her mess. 

Really. She was just Hawke but in a different coat of paint. Perhaps more charming too, less prone to fighting as well. 

“I'm gonna try again Varric, maybe he’ll play Wicked Grace with us and I will be able to make him let down that icy guard of his,” She began, with new reckless stubbornness. Nobody ever said no to her, especially not the men. Varric had purposefully watched when she charmed Curly, the sight was something to behold. The poor boy, a stuttering mess, and a devilish elf just smiling at him. Then there was The Iron Bull, those two took fast to flirting with one another on the battlefield. Some of the things so salacious he had noted to write it down in his next book, Maker, it felt as if those two were trying to win a battle or something with the sly comments they gave one another. 

“Yeah, yeah, you can woo Chuckles after you help me clean up your mess. " Somehow, when Varric uttered those words, the spilled ink and ruined parchment suddenly disappeared and were replaced with fresh and clean versions of both. Huh. Noted.

“I appreciate your invitation, but I must decline once again. I am… studying some things,” Solas rejected her yet again, which made her lean against one of the walls that he had yet to paint. Why was he so stubborn? She knew he liked her—or well, he did. They flirted well enough at Haven. What's so different with Skyhold? 

“Oh? Like what! Tell me about it, I like hearing about your studies and things,” she quipped, trying to keep him talking for as long as she could. She knew once he stopped they both would recede into different spaces. She would head to the tavern, drink ale and flirt with Bull for fun, cheat at cards with Varric, and be unabashedly herself for a few short hours before she had to be “inquisitor” again. 

It reminded her of when she was shuffled between clans to become the First to clan Lavellen, oh how she had to fold into herself there too. Do not run off, do not explore, pay attention, do not speak with humans, your magic is unchecked, blah blah blah. 

Perhaps that's why she desperately wanted for Solas to join her, to see her outside of her inquisitor persona and the real her. He had caught glimpses, she was not as subtle with her personality, never was as her Keeper would confirm. Her flippant attitude to certain problems, her joy in parties and victories, her defiance against the idea that mages were “unsafe”. That still wasn’t enough, she wanted him to know her and in turn, her know him. He was interesting, he reminded her of a Keeper she would actually follow, a Keeper who was actually wise. She found herself seeking his guidance, relishing in their talks, and learning far more than ever before… And perhaps when he spoke of how fascinating it would be to see her dominated it sent shivers down her spine and made her begin thinking about the sage elf differently. 

“I could not keep the inquisitor away from her companions, the work would bore you either way,”  He evaded smoothly, making a turn to look over a book that was sprawled on his desk. She pushed herself off the wall and walked forward, craning her head over his shoulder to peer at the text- ugh, she didn’t understand a lick of it from her quick glance. Yet she did enjoy seeing the spooked expression on Solas’s face as he stepped away. 

“Inquisitor, I assure you its-”

“Lumine, call me Lumine,” She beamed, swaying her hips slightly as she watched him squirm under her gaze. He leaned against his desk, inching farther away as she stood in front of him, blocking an easy escape. Yet, he did not make to push past her, how curious.

“...Inquisitor Lumine, please, do not worry about me, I enjoy my time here,” he spoke curtly, and she scoffed, stepping back and walking towards the door. Perhaps that was a bit mean, well, more so than mean. He had just gotten under her skin so terribly bad. 

“Right, of course, If the ale doesn’t make me pass out I shall find you again, Solas,” She called over her shoulder, she gave him a toothy grin as she did. She wasn’t someone who gave up on others, especially one that looked so… alone in that rotunda he called his own. Also, she never gave up on someone who didn’t trip at her feet. 

Perhaps he had divulged himself too much with his simple flirting and long looks. The strange, yet charming elf, Lavellen, had sunk her teeth into him and refused to let go despite his constant backwalking on past discussions. He thought after a few days of his somber and humble ploy she would saunter off to find another man to set her sights on. For a short while, he thought he was succeeding, until her incessant pestering about catching a drink or playing cards. He was amused by her, flattered even- despite wishing not to be and had not harshly rejected her. He enjoyed her confident walk into the rotunda, the pout after a soft refusal, and her walking away to lick her wounds. 

Yes, he enjoyed the game. He enjoyed seeing her eyes light thinking she might have won, then smoldering the flame with another shake of his head. How he enjoyed watching her new ideas and antics, her walk away with a pang of hunger.

Yet he shouldn’t, which is why he keeps denying her advances to the best of his abilities. He had something much more serious to do than devour Lavellan because of his foolish desire. He needed to stop watching the sway of her hips and the way she licked her lips when she ate honeyed treats. He had fleeting thoughts of how they would taste if instead, he licked them clean. How she would tremble and gasp against him-

Right. Focus. He could not be that man. She would find someone else, there were plenty of them lining up that she only bolstered with her teasing. Which is why, when she stumbled into the rotunda long past when the moon had risen, her skin flushed pink and her hair a mess, well- he just had to make sure she was okay, of course. Yes. it was important to confirm the inquisitor did not drink too much. He was just doing the humble apostate mage thing of leading her by the arm over to his couch and helping her lay down. 

The ale flowed plentifully, she had tipped her drink back to nothing so many times during the night that Josephine would most definitely need to place new orders for more drinks. How she stumbled up Skyhold’s steps and into the rotunda where her favorite elf would be is nothing short of a miracle. Perhaps she was Andraste’s chosen, for that's the only fathomable reason she didn’t fall on her face when she ascended the first step.

She must say though, seeing the bewildered look of a man deep in thought, the man she desired, who all but pushed aside his work to stride to her side and take her by the arm. 

“Inquisitor-” he began. His voice was rough from not using it for several hours. How she loved the sound, it would sound better if he called her name instead, though.

“Lumine” she slurred to correct him. Hoping to win hearing the syllables slip off his tongue with that gruff and tired voice of his.

“Lumine,” she won. Lovely, the sound struck her heart true and she leaned into him. Smelling the scent of ink, paper, and elfroot on his clothes. She let herself be led by him, perhaps because it gave her more of an excuse to practically nuzzle her way into his chest and then was laid down on the couch that sat in the otherwise sparse space. Her ale-addled mind had several pleasing thoughts of how this would continue, his walking away was not one of them. 

She sputtered to call after him, trying to lean up but the whooshing sound of blood in her ears and the spinning of the already very round room made her fall back down.

Oh, rotunda, round, of course. Did she truly only drink ale tonight?

“I’ll acquire you some water, Lumine,” Hearing her name again on his tongue, without that stupid title, made her relax back onto the sofa with a content sigh. Fine, so be it, let him grab her some water.

She dozed as she waited, her eyes closing and opening languidly as she took in the veilfire that lit the space. She found her eyes wandering in wonder at the paintings he had done in their time here. Perhaps she could ask him to give her lessons, another way to get more time with him and slip past his defenses. She heard the door click close and soon, there he was. She should make stopping by his room drunk a habit if it meant he doted on her. 

“Why, thank you my dear apostate.” She said, her voice intoxicatingly sweet. He sat the water beside her as he smoothed the hair off her brow. 

Yes, this shall become a habit of hers. 

“It's the least I can do Lumine… How much did you drink exactly?” he asked, his hand slowly sliding away and into his lap where he folded them together- so composed. 

“Cups!” she beamed, her voice echoing off the walls and up to wake some of the sleeping crows. He gave her a wry smile and sucked in a sharp breath. 

“Why, yes Lumine, cups,” He joked back to her. His eyes crinkled at the corners as he smiled, she saw his sharp canine and felt a sudden flip of her stomach. Was it the drink or the butterflies? Both? Something else?

“Wolfish,” She whispered. She grinned up at the shock that wove across his face. Yes, she was great at this teasing thing even when drunk. At least she knew she still had that effect on him, she was worried truth be told. 

“Wolfish and tricky,” she continued. Elated to see the way he shook his head with a bemused expression. She agreed with both her declarations, only now finding the right words to place what he reminded her of. She probably wouldn’t remember it in the morning, how sad she had finally placed the big mystery and she wouldn’t even remember. Perhaps she should write a note down for herself to remember. 

“I hope those are compliments, inquisitor,” she groaned at the usage of her stupid title once again. Throwing her arm over her eyes as she pursed her lips, hadn’t they worked past that?

“Please, I beg you, just call me my name, every blasted person in here calls me inquisitor,” she whined, her annoyances at these past few months bubbling up from their hiding place. Maker, she was so tired of it all, how much longer would she have to play yet another act of who the people around her supposed she was? When could she abandon the titles for her own name?

“I am not inquisitor, I am not the First, and I am not a knife-eared mage, I am Lumine Lavellen- witty and charming and whatever other positive words I cannot think of at this moment.” She declared. Yet again making his eyes crinkle and a smile tug at his lips. A shudder of a laugh shook his body as she pouted. Did he find this funny? How rude, she was dead serious. 

“Do not laugh, I forbid it, you are a tricky man to get to do anything, did you know? I have been poking and prodding you to come out of that shell of yours,” She babbled on, her train of thought leaving the first thought and jumping to the next as she did. The liquid courage flowing through her veins only allowed her to speak more directly to the apostate sitting beside her. 

“You- you do make your intentions noted,” He chuckled, looking away from her as his grip on his folded hands tightened. He was as taut as a bow, why? What had him on the defense so terribly as if he would leap away? 

“Well, that's good, I thought my charm had dulled since Haven,” She grumbled, making a move to grab the water and almost tipping the cup over. He practically leaped at the ability to help her, holding the cup for her as she sipped from it. Still, his eyes still seemed to betray his composure. A storm seemed to brew inside of them, and it made her choke on the water that slipped past her lips. 

“That's quite impossible, Lumine, you’ve charmed all of the inquisition and half of the Hinterlands, I am no fool to your guile,” He said, his voice low and still carrying edges of roughness from little use during the night. Yet again, her stomach flipped and she felt her skin heat from her face to the tip of her ears. 

“Yet you deny my charm, is there- did I misread?” she rushed out, leaning on her elbows and tipping her head closer to him. He tipped back as if getting too close to her could hurt him. Yet she waited, out of spite or fear or something else… She waited to hear his answer.

And that answer took a long time to form, as his eyes flicked back and forth between her and the door. 

“You… You did not misread, I just- well, I think… I do not want to distract you from your duties,” He had finally spoken after he gathered his thoughts. She snorted, duties? Can’t he see that's what she wants him to be? A distraction, something to remind her she was still her underneath the heavy weight of saving the world. 

She didn’t let her mind wander to the much more dangerous underlying factor that she, in fact, had a crush. It was sickening and she had never gotten one like this before, and well- she liked it, she liked feeling something other than the mounting pressure and the fear of failure.

“You silly man…” She had uttered, which only made him shoot her a confused stare. She grabbed hold of his wrist, running her fingers over the fabric that covered it before dipping it under the sleeve to feel the pulse there. It pounded beneath the pad of her finger, and she pressed down just slightly to see if he would pull away. He didn’t.

“You do not… distract me from my duties, you give me.. A breath of air before I am pulled back under by them,” She began, her finger still rubbing the cool and soft skin of his wrist as she spoke. “If it weren’t for you, Solas, I do not… I cannot see myself coming out of this as well as I have.” She finished, not intending to be so honest about her feelings- about her fears. His other hand softly came up to trace the bones underneath her wrist, before tugging it away from under his sleeve. 

She feared he would leave it at that, ignore her silly confession and her soft touches, and say “good night, inquisitor” in that annoying closed-off voice of his that she dreaded. The most beautiful thing occurred instead, for he intertwined his fingers with hers and held her hand. She felt her heart soar as she let out a soft gasp. 

The world could end now for all she cared, at this moment she was breathtakingly and maddeningly in love with a man for simply holding her hand. Such a simple act, and yet it broke her. 

“I fear for what would happen if we indulged in this, I fear for how it would… look,” He said softly, rubbing his thumb across the back of her hand. She forgot how to breathe, she was sure of it. 

“I do not want to make anything… difficult, I do not want to hinder our plans.” She sighed at his touch, feeling her body relax. She was lovesick, horrible, especially for her. The elf inquisitor who boasts about her flirtations, in love, gods…

“You could never be a hindrance, and if anyone were to say a thing I might just throw them off the highest point in Skyhold,” she spoke back softly, her eyelids drooping as she met his gaze. Longing pooled there, and love so true it made her heart stutter. Then, he smiled and pulled her hand to his lips to give the softest of kisses as she felt herself lull into sleep. His words were the last thing she heard, his face the last thing she saw before sleep overtook her. 

“Duly noted Lumine, I will keep your words close to heart… though, please do not throw anyone off any balconies for me, understood?” He said, a soft laugh permeating through his comment. She smiled in her sleep as she felt him again reach to smooth her hair. “No promises..” She mumbled, leaning into his touch that she wondered how she lived without for so long. Never again… She had declared to herself. Never again would she go without him, without this, without love like this.

[apriltastic]

Meet my Rook: Felix "Rook" Thorne

Male (he/him)/28/Grey Warden rogue

He once belonged to clan Lavellan and was 17 (almost 18) when the woman who would become the Inquisitor left for the conclave. They knew each other, but not well. Felix knew she was a powerful mage, quick-witted, and kind. When the clan got word she'd joined the Inquisition, he wanted to join the organization, as he'd recently proven himself to be a skilled hunter. The Keeper denied his request, as promising young hunters in the clan were few and far between.

Shortly after turning 19, he was out hunting with a group of hunters from his clan when they were attacked by darkspawn. Instead of fleeing, he fought off the horde, ensuring the safety of his other hunters, but he ended up blighted after being injured by the darkspawn. Knowing Grey Wardens were in the area, the hunters took Felix to them and pleaded with the Wardens to save his life. While the Joining is not to be used as a life-saving measure, the Wardens were already preparing for one for a group of new recruits, and they were impressed with the hunter's recounting of Felix's bravery and skills. They agreed to allow him to attempt the Joining, saying they would send word from Weisshaupt regarding his condition. (Obviously Wardens are going to keep their secrets...don't want to tell them he might die choking on darkspawn blood).

He survived, started going by Rook (because he cheated death..."rook" is slang for cheat/swindle), and immediately became a...Thorne (lol) in the First Warden's side. He is an absolute shithead. I love him.

He knew who Davrin was, but nothing beyond passing greetings at Weisshaupt. There was talk amongst senior leaders of also sending Rook to be an additional bodyguard for the griffons and their trainers, but then Rook decided to climb to the top of the First Warden's shit list.

Rook is driven by his emotions but is more likely to hide their outward manifestations with sarcasm and jokes. He tries not to take things too seriously unless the situation calls for it because he still can't decide if those hunters did him a favor when he was 19 or not. He reacts strongly to injustice, feeling part of his duty as a Warden is to correct it when he sees it. His correction of such situations is usually through force...he's not afraid to get into a physical confrontation if he feels it's called for.

He's also quick on his feet, often meaning he's prone to "do now, ask for forgiveness later" actions...which eventually lead to him being sent with Varric (see: First Warden's shit list).

He's a shameless flirt and has charmed the pants off many partners with relative ease.

He can't say he's ever been in love. There was one girl back in his clan he thought maybe one day... but when he went back to visit after surviving the Joining, she was married with babies on the way. He wasn't particularly upset or heartbroken over it and sent the family a gift when the babies were born.

And then he met Bellara.

At first, he found her a bit odd, constantly bouncing from one thing to the next. Obviously, he thought she was beautiful, but when his usual flirting fell flat, he just assumed she wasn't interested and made peace with just being friends.

What Rook thought was disinterest on her part was largely due to her inexperience. The topic of her inexperience made him nervous at first, mostly because he had plenty of it. He'd put plenty of notches in his belt and didn't want her to think she was just another one, or to think inexperience on her part was some kind of kink for him. He was nervous that despite his experience, he wouldn't be enough for her. It was paramount to him to make sure she felt safe, cherished, and cared for. She may have fallen first, but he definitely fell harder.

The night they...well, you know... He spent the time afterward worshipping every inch of her body he could get his hands and lips on. She traced his tattoos with her fingertips, and he mimicked her motions with his.

With Elgar'nan defeated, and Solas successfully tricked into using the fake dagger, Rook and Bellara return to Arlathan. While the blight within him may have changed, his experience as a Warden was still invaluable to the Veil Jumpers when fighting off any blight or darkspawn that lingered. Evka, now First Warden, assigned him to remain in Arlathan to assist with recovery efforts there and help Eldrin with the griffons now under his care.

Davrin also built a cabin nearby to "help with the griffons." (Eldrin, Rook, and Bellara are the closest thing he has to family but won't admit he wants to stay close to them).

He and Bellara get married by Eldrin in a small Dalish ceremony witnessed by Davrin and the Feather Brigade, and he starts going by his name again.

....

Not sure what happens from here, but I have LOVED every moment of playing this absolute cinnamon roll. I might start writing post-veilguard stuff for him, but either way. I had to share my guy. 🩷🩷🩷

[s1mpid10t]

So funny things I found out while playing Dragon Age Inquisition

THERE WILL BE SPOILERS

• If you piss off Solas enough (like REALLY piss him off) then you get the option to punch him in the face

• Solas is a "sweet talker" as our character calls him in the path of romancing him

• He does end up breaking up with you though so ಥ⁠‿⁠ಥ

• Also he has a turtle shaped tea pot

• Sera is a lesbian who will literally bark for a qunari woman (but also finds herself attracted to Iron Bull making her question things)

• Speaking of Sera, she doesn't like elves since she was raised by humans, so if you ask her how she feels about Solas she'll say he's "too elfy"

• Cassandra likes cheesy romance

• Iron Bull is very oblivious (you can ask him to fuck you, he will do it, and still think y'all are just friends)

• He also makes a lot of jokes (in the scene where people walk in on him naked he says "actually ___'s the one who's been taking it")

• Vivienne is married and even though you can flirt with her you can't romance her

• Varric named his crossbow after the woman he loves (also he's a famous writer which you find out through Josephine)

• Cullen in the hook up scene literally takes you ON A TABLE

[thechildofmythal]

Library Books

Short fic of Cullen x Inquisitor Lavellan slow burn.

The Inquisitor literally bumps into Cullen in the library of Skyhold. Cue some of the oldest tricks in the book, pun intended. There's attraction, there's tension, there's two bookish nerds trying to flirt. Awful and cute.

It's canon that Cullen reads a lot, so it would be easy to find him at the library, I think.

Read here in AO3 if you're a registered user, or find it in its entirety below the cut.

Words: 1 790

*

Ellana Lavellan climbed the stairs to the Skyhold library with her arms full of books. Reaching the top, she looked around to see if Dorian was around, but saw no sign of him. He would have been a great help in getting the books back in their right places, and made it fun, too.

Sighing, Ellana faced returning the books on her own. She took a look at the book on top of the pile in her arms, “A Study of the Fifth Blight,” and began to wander a meandering route between the bookshelves to find its place. Luckily, it did not take too long for her to find it. She tilted her head to read the cover of the next book on her lap while she walked between the shelves - and promptly walked into something tall, furry and immovable. 

“Oh!” she exhaled as a few books fell from her arms to the ground, but felt a stabilising, firm hand on her arm. It was Commander Cullen. She had bumped into his back - face first into the fur mantle on his shoulders. 

“Inquisitor!” Cullen exclaimed in surprise as he turned to face her, holding on to her arm with his hand, a book in the other hand. Ellana noticed he did not have his gloves on for once. “What were you– are you alright?”

Ellana blinked up at the man, trying to reorient herself, but his widened amber eyes on her and the man’s sudden proximity made her all the dizzier. Creators, he smells nice. Why did she always think about his scent? She never thought of what Varric or Blackwall or anyone else smelled like. Did Cullen simply have a stronger smell? Did he use more of some scent? No, it wasn’t that. The smell was very subtle, and it didn’t seem like he actually added any perfume. Perhaps a spicy, vanilla aroma in the hair product he used, then there was the leather of his armour, and most importantly, his own masculine musk that made her feel positively drunk of his presence. 

“Ellana?” Cullen repeated in a softer tone, squeezing her arm with a concerned look.

Ellana realised that the reason why she always noticed his scent was because, well, she noticed everything about him. Except apparently him being there in the library, having just walked straight into him.

“Sorry, I’m fine! I just, uh, wasn’t looking where I was going!” she hurried to explain and get a grip of herself. 

“So engrossed in,” Cullen turned his head to read the title of the book still remaining in her hand, “ A Dissertation on the Fade as a Physical Manifestation? Riveting reading, I’m sure.”

He gave her a lopsided smile, and Ellana swallowed. Her eyes were locked on the scar on his lip, and the tease in his voice made her get all kinds of ideas. She only needed to lean forward a bit, go up on tiptoe, and she could kiss him. It would be so easy. Would he still hold on to her arm? Would he answer her kiss and wrap the other arm around her, too? The thought gave her a thousand butterflies in her stomach.

“Dorian gave me this to read,” Ellana said and ripped her eyes off him to see where the other books had fallen.

Cullen’s hand let go of her. He tucked the book he was holding under his arm, and promptly knelt down on the floor to pick up the fallen books for her. Ellana quickly crouched down as well to clean up her mess, with a flustered face.

“That’s a book for mage students at Circles, ” he said, handing her a book from the floor. “Not the best suited for the likes of you and me.”

“You can say that again. Don’t tell Dorian, but I couldn’t finish it. Awful stuff. He’ll have to explain it to me.”

Ellana reached for the book farthest away at the same moment as Cullen did. Their hands brushed together, they looked at each other, then away, and they both chuckled a little. Cullen then picked up the book easily, having longer reach, and they both stood up together.

“Were you bringing all of these back?” Cullen asked, and with curiosity looked at the titles of the books he had picked up.

“Yes. Reading helps me get to know the world in other than Dalish terms,” she said and shifted, looking down at the books. “You must think me a bore, but I do enjoy reading.”

“If you are a bore, then there’s two of us,” Cullen said softly. Ellana looked up at him, and saw him smiling down at her. The butterflies and the terrible urge to kiss him returned in an instant. 

“Let me help you return these, or you’ll be here all evening,” Cullen offered. He took a book called Beyond the Frostbacks from her hands, and looked around. “This one belongs to this shelf, I think.”

“Thank you,” she said, and took a step aside to look for the right place for the next book called Ferelden: Folklore and History. 

“Rather heavy reading, all of these. Not a fan of Varric’s works, then?” Cullen asked conversationally as they walked between the bookshelves slowly, looking at the shelves and slipping the books in their places. 

“I’ve already read a couple of them, actually, and they’re really good,” Ellana admitted. “But I constantly feel like I’m out of my depth. I try to catch up on knowledge everyone seems to assume the Inquisitor should be well versed in.”

Cullen paused to look at Ellana as she reached to put a book on an upper shelf. With her back to him, he let his eyes wander along her stretched body, taking in her athletic, toned form and, Maker, her round buttocks perking up as she got up on tiptoe. Those were some form fitting trousers she was wearing, he thought appreciatively. She was not particularly short or small, but she had trouble reaching the top shelf. Cullen took a couple of seconds to gather courage to step closer - and to enjoy the view. Then he took a step forward, right next to her, and reached up easily being considerably taller than her. His larger hand covered hers holding the book, and he gently guided the book to its shelf. The book slotted into its place, and her hand ended up in his for a brief moment.

There she was. So close. Looking up at him with those big earnest blue eyes. She smelled fresh - like the moment just before rain, or perhaps freshly washed bed clothes that had been hanging outside to dry, and like a summery meadow in the middle of the night. No one else in Thedas smelled as enticing as she did. Or was as captivating as she was. Or as beautiful, he caught himself thinking. Cullen’s eyes were drawn to her parted lips - she then bit her lower lip, looking up at him, and he felt a sudden urge to bow his head and kiss her. The way she looked at him - he had to misjudge it, right? It would be madness to kiss her. It would be madness if she wanted him to, but she looked like that… This is mad, he decided. Get a grip of yourself. 

Cullen cleared his throat audibly - she blinked her eyes and looked down immediately. He let go of her hand and took a step back. The moment was over. He looked at the last book in his hands and started walking to the next library aisle. 

“You sound like you’re putting too much pressure on yourself,” Cullen said, picking up the conversation. “You should remember to let yourself relax, as well.”

“You’re one to talk. When’s the last time you’ve had a day off?” Ellana asked pointedly, walking after him. She gripped on the book she had left with both hands to stop them from shaking. 

“That, my lady, is beside the point,” Cullen quipped over his shoulder, and placed the last book in the shelf. “May I suggest a book? Some light reading to get your mind off of Grey Wardens and the Fade and Orlesian emperors of old.”

“If Dorian recommended a book on the intricacies of the Fade, are you going to suggest a book on trebuchets?” Ellana teased him, making him stop and look at her with a raised eyebrow.

“As a matter of fact I do know an excellent book on siege equipment, thank you very much,” Cullen said and Ellana couldn’t help but laugh. Making her smile and laugh made his heart swell in his chest. “But I thought of a fictional adventure story, actually. You might think it childish, but I enjoyed it as a younger man. I haven’t read it in years, but it’s harmless fun with a good plot twist.”

Cullen’s eyes scanned the shelves for a moment. “A-ha!” he found it, picked it off the shelf, and presented it to Ellana. 

“Empire’s End,” she read the title and thumbed through the book. She looked up at him, finding herself biting her lower lip again. “It doesn’t seem childish at all. Any romance?”

“There’s a subplot, if you must know,” Cullen admitted.

“Does the couple get a happy ending?” she asked, lifting an eyebrow at him. 

“That would be spoiling it,” he remarked. “And this is actually only the first book of a trilogy.”

“Oh come on, I won’t be reading it if they don’t get a happy ending,” Ellana complained playfully. 

“I didn’t realise you were so starved for romance, my lady,” he noted with a teasing smirk. “Perhaps you should ask Cassandra for book recommendations, instead.”

“I prefer your recommendations, thank you,” Ellana said and surprised her for being forward, “so I get more excuses to talk to you.”

Cullen’s mouth opened, then he breathed out and laughed a little. Boldened by her rather obvious flirt, he attempted one of his own. “In that case, perhaps I should take the two other parts of the trilogy, just to give you the excuse to come and see me when you need them.”

They both chuckled nervously, looking at each other, then away, then theirs eyes finding each other again.

“Sounds great,” she said.

“Good,” he said.

“Um."

“Yes, well…”

“Thank you for the help.”

“Any time, Inquisitor.”

Cullen bowed his head to her, and Ellana took a step back, smiling like an idiot. Then she turned before she would bump into someone else, and walked away. 

Before she left, she looked back over her shoulder - and caught him looking after her. They both looked guilty, then grinned at each other, Cullen shook his head smiling, and she escaped to the staircase.

[a-gay-bloodmage]

I'm curious...

Fellow Dragon Age fans, did you ever come up with a nickname for Varric to call your Inquisitor / Custom Hawke? Seeing as the man seems to be incapable of calling most of his friends their actual names, I figure that he'd give the Inquisitor one, even if he doesn't in-game!

I'd love to see people reblogging and tagging / replying with their PCs' nicknames... and maybe why or how they got them! My own Inquisitors' nicknames are under the cut! It'd be a very long post, otherwise...

Mallory Trevelyan: Girly, a very literal nickname. Before coming out as a cross-dresser, there wasn't a moment where Mallory (or Mallie) wasn't in a full face of makeup. He was always worrying about getting his hair messed up or complaining about having to wear things like pants or unflattering, manly armor. Even when Varric learned that Mallory was actually a man, the nickname stuck around. It still applied, after all! Mallory doesn't mind the nickname, but he does find it hopelessly unoriginal.

Kiora Trevelyan: Pep, a clear joke of a nickname. Kiora, a somniari, struggles with narcolepsy caused by her strong connection to the Fade. Both Kiora and Varric think that calling the girl who nods off after half an hour of sitting down in a loud tavern very funny.

Aelon Lavellan: Twitch, an unfortunately literal nickname. Aelon hates it, and Varric can't help but be amused the way that Lavellan's nose and ears twitch every time Varric calls him by the nickname. Lavellan is a very anxious, slightly paranoid person, and he certainly fits the nickname.

Ashavise Lavellan: Cuddles, an affectionately ironic nickname. Ashavise is one of the least cuddly people he knows, clearly not very interested touching anyone in the world of the living for the majority of her time in the Inquisition. Even if it's a joke about her, Ashavise does think that the durgen'len's stupid nickname for her is kind of funny. Not that she'd tell him, of course.

Ademamar Cadash: Big Guy, an obviously ironic nickname. Ade is about an inch taller than Varric, but the two of them are obviously the shortest men in the Inquisition. Ade's constant flirting with the Iron Bull only makes Varric think the nickname is all the funnier. Ade likes it, and cites it to Bull when he's trying to convince the quinari to sleep with him.

Harta Cadash: Madame, a literal and relatively respectful nickname. While she and Varric are friends, he tends to be a little careful around a woman still very deeply tied to the Carta. Especially since she admitted, very cheerfully, to having met Varric before the Inquisition, her family having wanted to check up on one of the Merchant guild men involved with the mess in Kirkwall. Harta loves the nickname.

Ozol Adaar: Willow, an affectionately literal nickname. It took him a while to come up with something that wasn't too obvious. He finally settled on Willow, even if a tree joke was a bit basic. The combined factors of Ozol's towering height, strength, and his long silver dreadlocks made Willow a perfect nickname. Ozol thinks it's very nice. Far better than most of things he's called by bas.

Semiha Silva-Adaar: Bouncy, a soft and literal nickname. Semiha's personality is very go-getter and cheerful, and she tends to fidget by bouncing a little on her heels. Her twin puffs of silvery afro hair only add to the perpetual motion. She thinks it's a great nickname, and smiles every time Varric calls her it.

[bloodedhearts]

Once my theme is ready I'll write these things properly on their pages BUT here have some info in alphabetical order:

BALDUR'S GATE 3 MUSES

My Astarion will always remain a spawn. I won't write him ascended.

For his personal quest, I will "default" to him freeing the other spawns after he killed Cazador and sending them to the Underdark.

He's a flirt, but he's hard to actually ship with. It takes a lot to reach him under his many layers.

I will mostly write him during BG3 timeline, but I'm open to do pre-game and post-game stuff, too.

Cassandra is a gold draconic sorcerer, which means she has high affinity with fire magic

She resisted her urge and ended up free from it after her dual with Orin, being alive and well at the end of the game. I won't write her otherwise.

In her playthrough, she was in a romantic relationship with Astarion, but she won't automatically be interested in him if you write him. Chemistry is needed, and I'm also open to ship her with other characters if chemistry is there.

In my headcanon, Cassandra couldn't resist her urge before getting the tadpole and could barely exist on her own.

My main verse is BG3, but I'm very interested in writing pre-game stuff and even post-game stuff.

My Shadowheart will always become a Selunite and betrayed Shar.

My "default" for her ending is that she accepted to let her parents rest in peace.

Chemistry is needed for shipping as usual.

I will mostly write her during BG3 timeline, but I'm open to do pre-game and post-game stuff, like I said for Astarion.

DRAGON AGE MUSES

My "default" for Fenris is that he stayed at Hawke's side and that they sided with the mages.

Like I said for Neve, he won't automatically have a crush on Hawke or sleep with Isabela if you write them because chemistry is always needed. I'm also willing to ship him with other characters if chemistry is there.

I'm willing to write pre-DA2 stuff, but I'll focus on DA2, DAI and DATV's timelines.

If we're writing in DAI or DATV's timelines and we're not shipping, you can assume Fenris is Hawke's lover. The one I have in mind is my main Hawke, Allys, who's a diplomatic/sarcastic mage who sided with the mages.

In DAI, romanced or not, he will come to Skyhold once he learns Hawke is there and help the Inquisition at his friend's/lover's side.

In DATV, he will be helping the Shadow Dragons.

He hates Solas deeply, and even more after he learned what happened to Varric.

I'm writing Neve hardened and not hardened. I personally saved Treviso in my first playthrough and Minrathous in my second one, and I know I'll save Treviso more often. I'll write both versions of Neve, but I'll mostly default to Treviso.

Neve will always become the protector of Dock Town at the end of her questline.

Because I'm always selective when it comes to shipping, she won't automatically have a crush on Rook or on Lucanis if you write them. Chemistry will always be needed. I'm willing to ship her with other characters too if chemistry is there.

I'm focusing on Veilguard timeline, but I'm also open to write her post-Veilguard and post-Trespasser.

My inquisitor Thalia Lavellan is a tempest rogue and she's a very skilled archer.

Her romance in DAI was with Solas, but I'm open to other ships if chemistry is there (especially with Cullen ngl because he's the one I've romanced the most in DAI). If we're not shipping, I'll default to a relationship with Solas, especially in Trespasser and Veilguard's timelines.

Dorian was Thalia's closest friend in DAI and it'll default to this when it applies.

She has a twin brother named Zephyr.

I'm open to pre-Inquisition stuff, but I'm more interested in writing her during DAI, Trespasser, Veilguard and the gap between these games.

[midorisudachi]

“The Inquisitor And Her Commander”

As some of you may have noticed, I am a huge fan of the Dragon Age games, especially Dragon Age Inquisition. Last year, I had planned on drawing all the main [playable] characters up until Dragon Age Day (which took place on December 4th), but I just didn’t have time to draw more than three characters (the Inquisitor, Solas, & Varric…please check them out in my gallery) due to being busy with work and other things. I’ll eventually draw the other characters when I gather more motivation to do so.

For now, please enjoy this piece. I hope everybody likes this. I worked very hard on this artwork. It took longer than usual to create, due to all the small details, the poses, & the armour. (Armour is not easy to draw for me!) For those of you who are DAI fans, you may recognize the flowers: Crystal Grace on the bottom and Andraste’s Grace on the top. I know Andraste’s Grace is not in DAI, but I thought it would be pretty to add to the artwork (since it technically exists in the Thedas world).

 My OC Inquisitor is named Bryony Trevelyan. She is actually my 2nd Inquisitor character, the first one having been an elf (which I may draw someday). I had been playing DAI for the 3rd time, a few months ago, as a male character (since I wanted him to be in a romance with Dorian, so yes, my male Inquisitor is gay), but I stopped for a bit since I am playing Skyrim at the moment (with updates & mods). Anyway, back on the main subject: I drew Inquisitor Bryony Trevelyan in the Armor of the Dragon Hunter outfit (from the Jaws of Hakkon DLC), which I had altered the colours by tinting it with Veil Quartz. I based her crown from concept art for DAI. So much armour in the game! Which I love, especially since the DA games don’t give female characters the stereotypical skimpy outfits…I love that I get to make my female characters wear bad-ass armour.

Cullen Rutherford is such an adorable and slightly awkward character around my Inquisitor. I knew I had to romance him right away, because his looks are the type of man I am attracted to in real life. (I’m not going to lie…in the game, he’s hot for a video game character. Ha ha!) I’ve always enjoyed the flirting in the DA games when it comes to the relationships. The best scene was right before their first kiss, when Cullen got interrupted by a member of the Inquisition, and then got mad about it. Ha ha. I liked when my Inquisitor asked Cullen, “The day you kissed me on the battlements…how long had you wanted to do that?” And Cullen replied (with a laugh), “Longer that I should admit.” Awwwww.

I also liked the part in the Winter Palace, when all these people were flirting with Cullen, and one asked him, “Are you married, Commander?” And Cullen replied, “Not yet, but I am…already taken.” Double awwww, because a loyal man is so dreamy. :3 I actually had Bryony & Cullen get married in the last DLC. :3 They adopt a Mabari (dog), too!

I love DAI too much. :D It’s such a fun game with the most gorgeous graphics (especially on the Xbox Series X).

Drawn with Sakura Pigma Micron pens, then coloured in with a mixture of Copic Markers & Ohuhu Markers. I used Koi Watercolours for the background. White accents done with both a gel pen and white watercolour. Gold acrylic was used for the Inquisition Symbol & the lines, which the scanner absolutely murders...the gold is such a pretty, shimmery metallic in real life. The light green around my art was done in Photoshop Elements.

Dragon Age Inquisition © Bioware & Electronic Arts

Fan artwork © Jacqueline E. McNeese