27 Justinian – 2 Solace 9:34
The warm glow of candlelight filled Ariana’s bedroom, casting soft, flickering shadows on the stone walls. Beyond the open window, Kirkwall stirred restlessly, the distant hum of Lowtown’s bustling streets blending with the faint clatter of waves against the harbor. The city never truly slept; its unease was a living, breathing thing, threading its way into every corner of her mind.
Ariana sat at her desk, her quill hovering above the parchment as her thoughts raced faster than she could capture them. The list before her felt more like a confession than a strategy: quiet plans to monitor Michael, to guide him toward the Rangers without him realizing her hand in it. Subtle ways to support Cullen’s efforts within the Gallows, shielding him from Meredith’s scrutiny while ensuring he didn’t bear the full weight of her wrath. It was all delicate and precarious, and each line on the page felt like another strand tightening around her throat.
Her gaze flicked to the window, where the spires of Kirkwall loomed like silent sentinels, jagged against the night sky. The Gallows, in particular, stood out, its dark silhouette a constant reminder of the fight that still lay ahead. Meredith’s iron grip, Michael’s growing disillusionment, Cullen’s growing frustrations weighed on her like stones in her chest.
Ariana sighed, leaning back in her chair as her fingers drummed softly against the desk. What would he think if he knew the truth? The thought gnawed at her, each scenario more damning than the last. She couldn’t bear the thought of him turning away, of his love turning to contempt.
She rose, her movements slow and deliberate, as if carrying the weight of her secrets. She gathered the scattered papers, sliding them into the drawer before extinguishing the candles one by one. The room plunged into shadows, but the faint light from the window kept the darkness at bay. The bed beckoned, but as she slipped beneath the covers, she knew sleep wouldn’t come easily.
It had been weeks since Cullen had stayed the night, his visits to the estate increasingly sporadic. The investigation into the intercepted transport had consumed much of his time, but she knew that wasn’t the only reason. Distance had crept between them, unspoken and heavy, and it was her doing. She had built the walls between them, brick by brick, with every half-truth and omission.
She curled onto her side, pulling the blankets tighter as her hand brushed against his side of the bed. The faint scent of him lingered, a bittersweet comfort that made her chest tighten. If he knew everything… would he leave? Would he hate me? The questions haunted her, their answers as unreachable as the stars outside her window.
The storm in her mind raged on until, eventually, exhaustion claimed her. Even in sleep, her dreams were restless, haunted by shadows and whispers. She clung to the faint trace of Cullen’s presence beside her, a fragile tether to the one thing she couldn’t bear to lose.
~~~
As Cullen stepped inside, the house was silent. He hadn’t intended to come this late; some part of him knew he should have stayed in the Gallows. And yet, the weight of the last few weeks had become unbearable. Meredith’s relentless scrutiny, the investigation that seemed to go nowhere—it all pressed down on him, suffocating and unrelenting. But the thought of Ariana… she was the only thing that kept him steady.
The lanterns had long since burned low, leaving only the shadows to greet him. The quiet creak of the door closing behind him was a stark contrast to the chaos that seemed ever-present in his life. Piece by piece, he shed his armor—each buckle, each strap finally lifting a weight he hadn’t realized he felt. His shoulders ached, his body was exhausted, but more than anything, he felt a weariness deep in his bones that no amount of rest seemed to fix—at least not when he was alone.
The weight of the day clung to him, heavy and unrelenting, but the thought of seeing her—just her—made the burden feel lighter, if only for a moment.
He moved through the familiar halls, his steps slow and deliberate as he made his way to her room. The door creaked softly as he opened it, and the sight before him made his chest tighten. Ariana was curled on his side of the bed, her hair spilling across the pillow like dark silk. The soft rise and fall of her breath was the only sound, her face peaceful in sleep. She missed him. That much was clear in the simple act of claiming his side.
Quietly, Cullen slipped onto the bed with practiced ease. The mattress dipped slightly beneath his weight, and though he tried not to disturb her, Ariana stirred faintly, turning toward him.
“You’re home,” she murmured, her voice heavy with sleep. Her eyes didn’t open fully, but she shifted closer, her hand brushing against his chest as though to confirm he was really there. “I missed you.”
Home. It wasn’t a place, it never had been. It was her.
It wasn’t just the words that undid him, but the way she said them—quiet, honest, wanting. The unspoken meaning settled between them like a whisper: I missed you, I need you.
Cullen swallowed hard, his exhaustion fading into the background. He leaned down, pressing a kiss to her forehead, lingering there as he breathed her in. “I missed you too,” he replied softly, though the words felt insufficient. He pressed another kiss—this time at her temple, trailing lower to her cheek.
Ariana tilted her head up to meet him, her lips brushing his in a kiss that was far too deliberate for someone who was half-asleep. Cullen smiled faintly against her mouth, his hand rising to cradle her jaw. “You are supposed to be sleeping,” he teased gently, the tone of his voice husky now.
She opened her eyes just enough to look at him, the faintest glint of mischief in their hazel depths. “I was but you’re here now.”
There was no hesitation in the way she reached for him, pulling him down into another kiss—this one deeper, lingering. Cullen groaned softly, the sound vibrating in his chest as he braced himself above her. Ariana’s hands slipped beneath his tunic, her fingers skimming his skin with a tenderness that set him alight.
“Are you sure?” he breathed against her lips, though he already knew the answer. She responded by tugging him closer, her legs shifting beneath the blankets to make room for him.
“I wouldn’t have said I missed you if I wasn’t,” she murmured, her words barely a whisper, but they sparked something deep within him.
He didn’t need more encouragement.
He pulled back just enough to rid himself of the last remaining barriers between them—his tunic, his trousers—discarding them with a kind of hurried care. Ariana watched him, her expression soft and knowing, her lips curved in a faint smile that left him breathless.
“Have I told you how much I adore you?” he asked, his voice low as he leaned down to kiss her again.
“Not enough,” she teased, though her breath hitched as his mouth moved to her neck.
Cullen took his time with her, though his heart was pounding in his chest. He kissed her slowly, reverently, tasting the skin of her throat, her shoulder, the hollow just beneath her ear where she shuddered at the touch. Ariana’s hands responded in kind, exploring every part of his body—sliding down his back, tracing old scars, anchoring him to her.
The room felt warmer now, the blanket forgotten, tangled around their legs as their bodies moved in perfect rhythm. Every touch was a question; every sigh, every moan, an answer. He memorized every part of her again, as though it was the first time, marveling at every sound she made, every way her body responded to him.
Cullen had spent much of his life holding himself back—guarding his emotions, his desires. But with her, he could drop his guard, he didn’t have to hold back. She unraveled him piece by piece, and he relished every moment of it.
As the night wore on, they found themselves tangled together beneath the sheets, the room still dim but filled with the sound of their breathing. Cullen fell onto his back, one arm curled around her shoulders as she moved to rest her head against his chest. Her fingers tracing lazy circles against his skin, her breathing soft and steady.
Cullen pressed a kiss to her hair, his lips lingering there as his heart slowed. How did I ever find this? he wondered. How did he—a man who has seen so much darkness—come to deserve something this pure, this good?
Ariana shifted slightly, tilting her head to look up at him. “You seem quiet,” she said, her voice still heavy with sleep. “What are you thinking?”
Cullen smiled faintly, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “That I love you,” he replied honestly.
Her lips curved, and she pressed a kiss to his chest before settling back down. “Good,” she said softly. “Because I love you too.”
Cullen closed his eyes, running his fingers through her hair absentmindedly as sleep pulled them both under. The world outside may still be chaos, but for now—for this moment—he had everything he needed.
And he would never take it for granted.
~~~
Ariana woke to the soft light filtering through the windows, warming the room and illuminating the faint shadows of morning. Cullen’s hand rested against her shoulder, his fingers moving in slow, absentminded circles. She didn’t need to open her eyes to know he was awake; the tension in his touch was enough to give him away.
“I can feel you thinking,” she murmured, her voice husky with sleep but tinged with affection. A faint, teasing smile tugged at her lips as she nestled closer to him.
Cullen’s hand stilled briefly before resuming its gentle motion. “I’m sorry,” he whispered into her hair, his voice low and rough, carrying the weight of unspoken burdens. “It’s nothing. I shouldn’t—”
“Stop,” Ariana interrupted, her fingers trailing lightly over his chest, her touch both reassuring and insistent. “You’re not a burden, Cullen. Talk to me.”
For a moment, silence stretched between them, thick with everything left unsaid. Cullen’s breathing was steady, but she could feel the conflict in him—the way his heart beat just a little faster beneath her touch. When he finally spoke, his voice was strained, hesitant, as if each word pained him.
“I can’t shake the feeling that I’m putting you in danger by being with you,” he admitted, his tone barely above a whisper. “Meredith… she’s focused on you, and I wonder if it would stop if…” He trailed off, unable to finish, the words lodging in his throat like a stone.
Ariana’s chest tightened, the thought of him pulling away cutting deeper than she’d expected. Her fingers stilled against his skin before she shifted to look up at him, her hand gently tilting his face toward hers. His brow furrowed, the lines of worry etched deeply into his features.
“I’m not afraid of Meredith,” she said firmly, her voice steady despite the turmoil beneath the surface. “And I won’t give you up that easily. Don’t even think about it.”
His eyes searched hers, flickering with doubt and something softer—something more vulnerable. “You deserve better than this,” he said quietly, his voice tinged with guilt. “Better than being targeted, better than… me.”
Ariana’s heart ached at the self-recrimination in his tone. Without hesitation, she leaned in, pressing her lips to his in a kiss that was both gentle and fierce, a silent declaration of everything she couldn’t put into words. Her hand slid to the back of his neck, holding him there as if to anchor them both.
“You’re wrong,” she whispered against his lips, her voice breaking slightly. “You’re exactly who I need. I didn’t let a Blight take you from me; I’m certainly not letting Meredith do it.”
Cullen exhaled shakily, his arms wrapping tightly around her as if trying to quiet his doubts. He pulled her close, their bodies entwined as they settled back into the pillows. The steady rhythm of his heartbeat beneath her ear was a fragile comfort, a reminder of what she was fighting to protect.
But as she lay there, her head resting against his chest, her mind couldn’t help but wander to the truth she couldn’t say aloud: He’s right. Letting him go would be easier… for both of us. But I can’t.
~~~
Ariana found herself grinning as she watched Cullen sip his coffee across the table. These mornings, rare as they were, had become her solace. She wished more than anything she could be candid with him. She wondered what it would be like to wake him up at dawn with her, share every part of her life with him, and take him down to the training area of the warehouse.
Whenever they sparred together, she loved it. He was one of the few people who could genuinely challenge her. Her thoughts drifted further, wondering what her life could look like if he could be part of all of it. If they could retreat to the quiet of the Ranger manor outside Redcliffe. Would he even want to live that life? Away from the Order? Would it be enough for him?
“Can I ask what you’re thinking about?” Cullen’s voice broke through her thoughts, drawing her attention back to the present.
She chuckled softly, shaking her head. “How much I love you,” she admitted, her voice tender but tinged with longing.
Before Cullen could respond, Isabel appeared in the doorway, “You’ve got a visitor,” she announced, her tone brisk but curious.
Ariana and Cullen exchanged glances, their surprise mutual. “Who?” Ariana asked, rising from her seat.
Isabel stepped aside, and Riley strode into the room, her fiery red hair catching the light. Ariana’s eyes widened, her breath catching for a moment before she bolted toward her, pulling Riley into a tight hug.
“Riley,” she greeted, her voice steady despite the swirl of emotions. Relief, surprise, and mild panic danced in her chest.
Riley stiffened briefly before hugging her back, a grin tugging at her lips. “Didn’t think I’d see you this happy to see me, Wol—” she caught herself, her voice dropping just before finishing the nickname. Riley’s sharp gaze flicked briefly to Cullen, assessing him.
Ariana pulled back, her smile warm but laced with caution. “I wasn’t expecting you. What brings you to Kirkwall?”
“Couldn’t stay away,” Riley replied, her tone casual but her eyes sharp. “Thought it was time I saw what kind of trouble you’ve gotten yourself into.”
Ariana chuckled softly, though her stomach churned. “Sit,” she said, motioning toward the table. “Breakfast is better with company.” She gestured toward Cullen, who had been watching the exchange closely. “Riley, this is Knight-Captain Cullen.”
Cullen stood, his movements deliberate as he extended a hand. “Pleasure to meet you.”
Riley’s handshake was firm, her gaze unwavering. “So, you’re the Templar,” she said, her tone carrying a faint edge of amusement.
Ariana’s cheeks burned as she shot Riley a warning look. “Riley…”
“What? It’s true,” Riley said with a smirk, glancing back at Cullen. “This one dragged me all over Ferelden and Orlais after the Blight. She wouldn’t say much, but I knew she was looking for someone.”
Cullen’s expression softened, though his wariness didn’t entirely fade. “And you figured it out?”
Riley shrugged, her tone light but calculated. “Wasn’t hard. Our first stop was Lake Calenhad. Not much there except a Circle, so I figured it had to be a Templar. She never seemed the mage type.”
Ariana groaned, burying her face in her hands. “Maker help me.”
Cullen chuckled softly, his earlier tension easing just enough for Ariana to catch the faintest hint of amusement in his eyes. “You could have just told her.”
“She’s stubborn,” Riley quipped, earning a sharp look from Ariana.
“I take it you didn’t come all this way just to embarrass me,” Ariana said, her tone playful but firm as she tried to steer the conversation back on track.
Riley chuckled, finally taking a seat. “Not entirely,” she admitted. “But it’s a benefit.”
Cullen’s jaw tightened slightly as he met Riley’s gaze. “You’ve been through a lot together, from the sounds of it.”
“You could say that,” Riley replied, her tone neutral but pointed. “She’s worth it, though.”
Cullen didn’t respond immediately, but his posture relaxed slightly. “I don’t doubt that,” he said at last, his voice softening as his eyes flicked to Ariana.
As breakfast continued, Ariana couldn’t help but notice the subtle shifts in Cullen’s demeanor. His posture was relaxed, but his eyes flicked to Riley often, as though trying to piece together her connection to Ariana. Ariana kept the conversation light, carefully steering away from anything that might raise more questions, though she felt the weight of his unspoken thoughts.
When Cullen finally stood to leave, his gaze lingered on Ariana. “I’ll see you tonight?” he asked, his tone softer now.
Ariana smiled, her heart squeezing at the question. “Of course.”
The moment he was gone, Riley leaned back in her chair, her smirk returning. “Well, he’s not bad to look at.”
Ariana rolled her eyes but couldn’t suppress her smile. “And you’re insufferable. Now, why are you really here?”
Riley’s expression turned serious, her teasing facade dropping. “We’ve got a lot to talk about, Wolf.”
~~~
The narrow streets of Hightown stretched before Cullen as he made his way back to the Gallows. The early morning light cast long shadows across the stone walls, and the rhythmic echo of his boots against the cobblestones did little to quiet the storm in his mind.
He exhaled sharply, Riley’s words still ringing in his ears: She’s worth it, though.
His jaw clenched as the implications of their conversation weighed heavily on him. Riley wasn’t just a friend. That much was clear. Her presence, her demeanor—everything about her hinted at something more, something calculated. It was in the way she moved, her careful choice of words, her sharp eyes that missed nothing. She wasn’t an ordinary traveler or a simple companion from Ariana’s past. No, Riley was trained, deliberate. She had the bearing of someone used to the weight of responsibility, someone who had seen battle. A Ranger, no doubt.
The thought made Cullen’s chest tighten. Ariana had admitted to knowing the Rangers and even having friends among them. Still, her connection to them had always been a source of unease for him. His instinct was to distrust them—mercenaries who worked in shadows, answering to no one. Yet, as much as his Templar training demanded he view them as little more than opportunists, there was something about Riley that unsettled that belief.
She’s worth it, though.
That simple statement carried a weight Cullen hadn’t been prepared for. It wasn’t just loyalty—it was conviction. Riley believed in Ariana and cared for her deeply. That much was undeniable. And for the first time, Cullen wondered if he’d been too quick to judge the Rangers. If they had indeed been there for Ariana during the Blight, if they had protected her, then how could he dismiss them entirely?
His thoughts shifted to Riley’s other comment: This one dragged me all over Ferelden and Orlais after the Blight. She wouldn’t say much, but I knew she was looking for someone.
A surge of guilt swept through him. Ariana had been searching for him. She had endured the aftermath of the Blight and traveled dangerous roads, all in the hopes of finding him. And Riley had been with her through it all. Protecting her. Supporting her. Ensuring she wasn’t alone.
That realization settled heavily in Cullen’s chest, though it brought with it an odd sense of relief. Ariana hadn’t been alone. She’d had people who cared for her and stood by her when he hadn’t been there. That didn’t erase the regret of not being by her side during those years, but it softened the edges of his guilt.
Still, the question remained: Could he trust the Rangers? Could he trust Riley?
Cullen’s brow furrowed as he rounded a corner, the Gallows now visible in the distance. His instincts told him to be cautious, to remain vigilant. But his heart… His heart clung to the image of Ariana safe, cared for, and alive. If the Rangers had been the ones to ensure that, then perhaps he could tolerate their presence, if only for her sake.
Meredith’s scrutiny of Ariana loomed in his mind, a constant source of dread. He couldn’t always be there to protect her, not with Meredith’s watchful eyes narrowing on both of them. But Riley’s presence shifted something in his perspective. If the Rangers valued Ariana as much as Riley’s words suggested, perhaps he wasn’t alone in ensuring her safety. Perhaps they could protect her in the ways he couldn’t.
His grip on his sword tightened as he crossed the bridge to the Gallows. The tension in his chest didn’t fully dissipate, but the weight of his fears felt slightly lighter. He would never fully trust the Rangers—he couldn’t, not with their secretive methods and loose allegiances. But knowing they cared for Ariana, that they might shield her from Meredith’s growing obsession, made accepting their presence in her life easier.
So long as Ariana wasn’t working with them, he could accept her having friends among the Rangers. Knowing she had people who valued her, who would protect her as fiercely as he wanted to, eased some of his fears. It didn’t erase his distrust, but it made it bearable.
And that, for now, was enough.
~~~
“So…Riley…not that I don’t trust you, but…who’s in charge back home?” Ariana asked, her tone light but edged with genuine curiosity. Her fingers traced the rim of her tea cup as she studied her lieutenant.
Riley leaned back in her chair, crossing her arms with an easy grin. “Don’t worry, I made sure everything back in Redcliffe is in good hands. The Vanguard have really stepped up since you’ve been gone.”
Ariana raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing at her lips. “I see,” she said dryly. “So…you’re telling me I promoted a few people without even realizing it?”
Riley laughed, her voice carrying its usual warmth. “In title only, Wolf. They were already doing the job, you just made it official. Besides, I told Isabel about it. Did she forget to mention it to you?”
Ariana let out a laugh, shaking her head. “She probably thought it was an administrative issue that didn’t need my attention. And honestly, she’s probably right. It’s fine. So…who’s running the manor?”
Riley straightened, her grin shifting into something more practical. “I left Malcolm in charge of the manor and the big-picture tactical plans. He’s got a good head for strategy, and the rest of the Vanguard, that aren’t here, are leading their own squads now.”
“Malcolm?” Ariana repeated with a chuckle. “I hope he hasn’t started running drills in the dining room again. I’ll never forget the time we almost lost a chandelier.”
Riley smirked, leaning forward conspiratorially. “Oh, you know him. Probably has the whole place running like a barracks by now. But it’s better than the alternative. And hey, it’ll toughen up any new recruits. Speaking of… we’re helping Templars defect now?” the confusion on Riley’s face evident
Ariana realized that she really hadn’t sent word ahead “Well, that’s part of what we need to talk about. Things in Kirkwall aren’t good, Riley. But we’ll get into it more later. I think I need help explaining the full extent of what we’re up against.”
“Alright, Wolf. You know I trust you but… this is dangerous territory…” Riley said knowing she was stating the obvious. “Speaking of dangerous… You want to tell me how in the blazes you almost got yourself killed?”
Ariana winced. She’d expected this. If anything, she was only surprised Riley hadn’t arrived sooner. “I… horde of rampaging Qunari?” Her answer sounded more like a question, and she knew it wouldn’t satisfy Riley.
Riley’s expression hardened, her voice like a blade. “Rampaging Qunari? And where exactly were they rampaging?”
“The docks,” Ariana admitted with a sigh. “Cullen’s position was about to fall, and then the Qunari would’ve taken the city, so… I had to do something.”
Riley shook her head, frustration and guilt etched into her features. “You almost died saving Cullen? Is that the short version?”
Ariana buried her face in her hands, unable to withstand Riley’s glare.
“You can’t keep doing this, Wolf,” Riley said, her tone softer but no less serious. “One day, you’re going to run out of luck, and I’m not ready to lose you.”
Ariana looked up, offering a sheepish smile. “I thought you’d be impressed with my strategy.”
Riley huffed, leaning back in her chair. “This conversation isn’t over.”
The tension eased, and Riley’s grin softened, replaced by a look of determination. “Lay it on me. What’s going on?”
Ariana hesitated for a moment, glancing toward the door as if ensuring no one could overhear. Then she began to speak, her voice low but steady. She explained everything—the challenges in Kirkwall, Meredith’s interference, Michael’s unexpected arrival, and the growing strain of their operation. Riley listened intently, her sharp green eyes never leaving Ariana’s face.
When Ariana finished, Riley sat back, her expression unreadable for a moment before she let out a low whistle. “Well,” she said, cracking a grin, “looks like I got here just in time. You’ve really gotten yourself in deep this time, huh?”
Ariana gave her a pointed look but couldn’t help the small smile tugging at her lips. “You could say that.”
“Good thing I like a challenge,” Riley said, clapping her hands together. “Alright, Wolf. Let’s get to work.”
“Alright then,” Ariana said, glancing at Riley with a knowing smirk. “So…do you want a day off, or are you ready to get to work?”
Riley scoffed, crossing her arms. “What, you think I’ve gone soft since you left?”
Ariana laughed, shaking her head. “Of course not. Just making sure. You’re going to find Kirkwall is a dangerous place.” She gestured toward her room. “Let me get dressed, then. There are some people I want you to meet.”
~~~
A short while later, they headed to the Hanged Man. Ariana wanted Riley to meet Varric and Hawke. As they entered the bustling tavern, Ariana gave Corff a knowing look. Without needing to ask, he nodded toward Varric’s suite. She motioned for him to bring up a bottle of wine, which he acknowledged with a nod before she and Riley made their way upstairs.
Peeking into Varric’s suite, Ariana was pleased to find exactly the two people she needed. Varric and Hawke were lounging at the table, a pair of half-empty glasses between them, mid-conversation. The atmosphere was relaxed, but the sharpness in Hawke’s eyes betrayed that their conversation had likely been more serious moments before.
“Do either of you ever get any work done?” Ariana teased, stepping inside with a grin. “I’ve yet to walk in here without finding you both sitting around.”
Varric looked up first, his grin widening. “Ah, pup,” he said, raising his glass in mock toast. “What can I say? It’s hard work keeping the city in one piece.”
Hawke leaned back in her chair, smirking. “We make it look easy.”
Varric’s eyes shifted to Riley, his curiosity evident. “Who’s your friend?”
Ariana closed the door behind her and turned to face them, gesturing for Riley to take a seat at the table. “This,” she smirked, “is First Lieutenant Riley of the Silver Rangers.”
Riley raised an eyebrow, looking at Ariana. “Wait, I’m getting promoted?”
Ariana gave her a sly smile. “Well, you promoted everyone else while I was gone, so…it’s in title only. You were already doing the job.”
Hawke chuckled softly, her eyes glinting with amusement. “So this is the infamous lieutenant?”
“You’ve heard of me?” Riley asked, tilting her head with mock suspicion.
“Of course,” Varric chimed in, leaning back in his chair. “Who do you think got all the communication and shipments set up?”
“So you did all the heavy lifting?” Riley quipped, raising an eyebrow, her tone dry but playful.
Varric’s grin didn’t waver. “Well, I delegated. Besides, someone has to keep an eye on the Champion. She’s a magnet for trouble.”
Hawke shrugged, her smirk widening. “What can I say? Trouble finds me.”
Riley leaned forward, her arms resting on the table as she glanced between the two. “Seems like you two keep things lively.”
“You have no idea,” Ariana muttered, though her tone was fond.
Varric raised his glass with a grin. “Well, welcome to Kirkwall, Lieutenant. Hope you like chaos.”
Riley smirked. “I’m starting to see what you’ve been dealing with, Wolf.” She paused, turning to look at Varric. “I take care of this one. I specialize in chaos.”
Ariana snorted, lifting her glass. “To chaos,” she replied dryly, earning laughter from the others.
Hawke tilted her glass toward Riley. “If you’re sticking around, I hope you’ve got thick skin. You’ll need it between the mages, the Templars, and Varric’s endless storytelling.”
Riley raised an eyebrow at Varric. “Endless storytelling? That sounds dangerous.”
“Only if you’re on the wrong side of it,” Varric replied with a wink. “Don’t worry, Lieutenant. I’m sure you’ll give me plenty of material.”
Ariana groaned, covering her face with one hand. “Maker, please don’t encourage him.”
“Too late,” Varric chirped, leaning back in his chair. “I can already see the chapter titles: The Wolf and Her Pack.”
Riley laughed, her eyes glinting. “That doesn’t sound half bad. Just make sure I get to approve my parts.”
Varric raised his glass again. “You’ve got yourself a deal.”
The room filled with the warm hum of conversation and laughter, the tension of Kirkwall momentarily forgotten. For Ariana, it was a brief but precious reprieve—proof that even in the shadows, there was light.
~~~
Riley woke to the faint hum of the Hanged Man coming to life downstairs. The muffled voices of early patrons and the clatter of mugs told her it was just another day in Kirkwall’s liveliest tavern. She stretched, noting how the modest but functional room had its own charm. “Ariana’s old room,” she murmured, a faint smirk tugging at her lips. “Not bad, Wolf. Not bad.”
Moments later, Ariana arrived, stepping into the room with a teasing grin. “Well? Have you settled in, or do you need more sleep?”
Riley snorted, standing and stretching her arms over her head. “Please, Wolf. This is like waking to the sounds of fresh recruits pretending to train.”
Ariana rolled her eyes but chuckled. “Come on, I’ve got a full day planned for you.”
The morning sun illuminated the bustling streets of Lowtown. The market was alive with the scents of fresh bread, spices, and the unmistakable hum of Kirkwall’s chaos. Riley inhaled deeply, the corner of her mouth twitching as her gaze flicked around the crowd.
“Wolf,” she murmured, her tone casual. “You know you’ve got a shadow, right?”
Ariana didn’t break her stride, her voice equally casual. “Noticed them a block ago. Subtle, aren’t they?”
Riley smirked, her eyes catching a glimpse of their followers in a reflective window. “If by ‘subtle’ you mean stomping around like mabari in full plate, then sure.”
Ariana’s lips twitched with amusement. “Templars. New recruits, I’d wager.”
“Should we invite them to join us?” Riley asked, her voice dripping with mock sincerity. “Maybe give them pointers on how not to stand out?”
Ariana chuckled softly. “Let’s make them work for it first.”
They wove through the market, stopping occasionally to inspect stalls. Riley made a show of scrutinizing an apple, biting into it with exaggerated deliberation. “Think they’re hoping for a grand revelation? Maybe we’ll lead them to a secret Ranger hideout?”
“Let’s disappoint them,” Ariana replied, pretending to study a bolt of fabric. “I could spend hours haggling over linen if it’d bore them enough to leave.”
“They’re persistent, I’ll give them that,” Riley muttered as they slipped into another alley. “Want to lose them properly or keep playing?”
Ariana sighed, exchanging a glance with Riley. “Alright. Let’s head back to the estate.”
“Strategic retreat?” Riley raised an eyebrow.
“Something like that,” Ariana replied with a smirk.
Back at the estate, Riley leaned casually against the wall, her arms crossed. “Alright, Wolf. Spill. Why are we being tailed by Templars? This Cullen’s idea of keeping tabs on you?”
Ariana shook her head, her expression turning serious. “No, he would’ve told me. This is Meredith. The Knight-Commander doesn’t appreciate my ‘distracting’ her Knight-Captain.”
Riley’s eyebrows shot up, a wry grin forming. “Wait. You’re telling me the Knight-Commander is sending rookies to skulk around because you’re seeing her golden boy? That’s petty even for Templars.”
Ariana sighed, running a hand through her hair. “It’s more than that. Meredith doesn’t trust me. She’s been watching me for months. I think she sustpects I’m not an average noble.”
Riley’s grin faded, her expression darkening. “So, she knows something?”
“Probably nothing,” Ariana replied, her tone steady. “But she’s hoping to find something. She’s playing a game of intimidation, hoping I’ll slip.”
Riley’s fists clenched at her sides. “And what if she does find something? Wolf, this isn’t just her watching you—it’s her setting up for a kill.”
“I know,” Ariana admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. “But she’s watching Ariana Trevelyan, not the White Wolf. She thinks I’m just some noblewoman meddling where I don’t belong.”
Riley scoffed. “She’s not wrong about you meddling.”
Ariana shot her a look, but Riley wasn’t done. “If Meredith’s already circling, we need to be ready. We can’t afford to get sloppy.”
Ariana nodded, her resolve firming. “We won’t. But for now, we keep the Rangers in the shadows. Meredith can’t know.”
Riley pushed off the wall, her jaw tight. “Fine. But if she crosses the line, Wolf, you know I’m not the type to sit back and watch.”
Ariana smirked faintly, her eyes hard. “And that’s why I trust you.”
The two women locked eyes, a silent understanding passing between them.
“Let’s plan,” Ariana said finally, her voice steady.
Riley’s grin returned, sharp and confident. “Lead the way, Wolf. Let’s show her what shadows can do.”
~~~
Ariana wandered through Hightown’s bustling market, her steps deliberate but unhurried. The air was thick with the mingling scents of polished steel from the blacksmith’s stall, parchment, and leather. Her thoughts, however, were elsewhere—lingering on the ever-present shadows of Templars that seemed to trail her steps in Lowtown.
Funny how they never followed her into the Hanged Man. Even they knew better than to stir trouble under Varric’s watchful eye. But this—this—being tailed openly, was new. It left an itch of frustration she couldn’t quite shake.
Her musings were interrupted by the sharp, clipped tone of a voice she recognized instantly.
“Lady Trevelyan,” came the sharp, commanding voice that sliced through her musings.
Ariana turned, her heart sinking slightly, but her expression was calm. Meredith stood a few paces away, flanked by two Templars. Her presence was as oppressive as ever, and the bustling crowd instinctively gave them space.
Ariana’s fingers brushed against her side, where the familiar weight of her dagger usually rested. She wasn’t afraid—she’d faced worse than Meredith before—but she knew better than to show anything but calm. The trick with people like Meredith wasn’t strength; it was knowing when to push and when to let the storm blow over.
“Knight-Commander,” Ariana greeted, her tone icy but polite. “To what do I owe the pleasure?”
Meredith’s eyes narrowed. “Your recent travels to Starkhaven have raised questions. Curious, how your visit coincided with certain… disruptions.”
Ariana tilted her head, a faint smile tugging at her lips. “Disruptions?” she echoed, her voice laced with feigned innocence. “You’ll have to be more specific. I’d hate to misunderstand your… insinuations.”
Meredith’s hand twitched near the hilt of her sword, her patience visibly thinning. “Do not play games with me, Lady Trevelyan. Why were you in Starkhaven?”
Before Ariana could respond, a familiar voice cut through the tension, laced with its usual sarcasm.
“Well, well. Is this how Kirkwall handles its noble disputes these days? Public interrogations in the marketplace?”
Hawke emerged from the crowd, her trademark lopsided grin firmly in place. She crossed her arms lazily, her sharp eyes flicking between Meredith and Ariana with practiced ease.
“This doesn’t concern you, Champion,” Meredith snapped, her tone icy.
“Oh, I beg to differ,” Hawke drawled, tilting her head. “See, I was just about to haggle over some essential expedition supplies. But it’s hard to focus on business with all this… tension.” She waved a hand dramatically at the gathered onlookers.
Ariana bit back a laugh, grateful for the intervention.
“Stay out of this,” Meredith warned, her voice sharp as steel.
Hawke’s grin only widened. “Now, where’s the fun in that? You know me, Knight-Commander. I can’t resist poking my nose where it doesn’t belong. And besides, what’s poor Lady Trevelyan done to earn such scrutiny? Misplace your tea set? Borrow the Knight-Captain’s cloak and forget to return it?”
Ariana coughed, covering her smile with a hand.
“This is not a laughing matter,” Meredith hissed, her jaw tightening.
“Neither is attempting to detain a noble in broad daylight without cause,” Hawke shot back, her tone light but edged with steel. “Unless you plan to formally charge her? In that case, might I suggest involving Guard-Captain Aveline? She loves handling these… delicate situations.”
At that precise moment, Aveline’s unmistakable voice rang out from behind them, her tone carrying its usual mix of authority and mild exasperation.
“What now?” Aveline strode toward the group, her armor catching the sunlight. She fixed Hawke with a pointed look before shifting her gaze to Meredith. “Knight-Commander. Is there a reason you’re questioning a noblewoman in the middle of Hightown? Because unless Lady Trevelyan is a mage, this seems more a matter for the City Guard.”
Meredith’s lips pressed into a thin line, her posture stiffening. “I have reason to believe Lady Trevelyan’s recent travels are tied to matters of great importance.”
“Then,” Aveline interrupted, her tone crisp, “I suggest submitting a formal request to the City Guard. We’ll handle it from there.” She crossed her arms, her gaze unwavering. “After all, we wouldn’t want to overstep jurisdiction, would we?”
Hawke smirked, her voice light but pointed. “See? What did I tell you? Aveline’s got this all under control. If you’ll excuse us, we have some very important shopping to finish.”
Meredith’s glare could have cut stone, but after a tense pause, she stepped back. “This isn’t over,” she said coldly, turning sharply on her heel. Her Templars followed without a word.
As the crowd began to disperse, Aveline sighed, rubbing her temples. “I don’t know how I let you drag me into these things, Hawke.”
Hawke smirked, and before she could respond, Aveline added dryly, “One day, Hawke, I’ll bill you for the extra paperwork you cause. Maker knows I’ve earned it.”
“You love it,” Hawke replied breezily, clapping a hand on Aveline’s shoulder. “Keeps life interesting.”
Ariana laughed softly, her shoulders relaxing. “Thank you, Aveline. That could’ve gone worse.”
Aveline shot her a look. “You’re lucky she didn’t escalate. You’ve got too many eyes on you, Trevelyan. Be careful.”
“I will,” Ariana promised.
Hawke grinned, looping her arm through Ariana’s. “Come on, Ari. Let’s leave Aveline to her very important duties. We’ve got shopping and drinks to attend to.”
“And trouble to avoid,” Aveline muttered, shaking her head as she turned to leave.
“Trouble?” Hawke called after her, her grin widening. “Aveline, I am trouble.”
Ariana laughed, slipping her arm through Hawke’s. “And I’m clearly your accomplice. Trouble just seems to follow us.”
“And yet I still let you in my office,” Aveline replied dryly over her shoulder, disappearing into the crowd.
Ariana shook her head, a genuine smile tugging at her lips. “Well, that was eventful.”
“Welcome to the new Kirkwall,” Hawke quipped. “Now, drinks?”
“Drinks,” Ariana agreed, the tension of the encounter finally beginning to lift as they made their way down the bustling street
~~~
Hawke and Ariana eventually made their way down to the Hanged Man. The day’s events merited a conversation with Riley and Varric.
As expected, they found both Riley and Varric in Varric’s suite. Riley was sharpening her sword while Varric lounged with a glass of wine, Bianca resting on the table.
“Well, we just had quite the interesting afternoon in Hightown,” Hawke quipped as she and Ariana walked in, closing the door behind them. “Honestly, probably the most excitement Hightown has seen since the Qunari…”
Ariana flinched at the phrase, raising an eyebrow. “Really?” she asked, her tone dry.
“Too soon?” Hawke smirked.
“Maybe,” Ariana replied, shrugging. “Although I suppose we’re in this mess since the Viscount was killed by the Arishok…”
Riley and Varric exchanged confused glances. “What’s going on, Pup?” Varric asked, his tone shifting to something more serious.
Hawke and Ariana took turns explaining their encounter with Meredith. Varric’s expression darkened as the story unfolded while Riley’s brows knitted together in a deep frown.
“If I do this again, I’m going to need a better cover, Varric,” Ariana finally said, her tone wry. “As in actual business I can point to.”
“Not good, Wolf. This related to your shadow, I’m guessing?” Riley asked, crossing her arms.
“Shadow?” Hawke repeated, looking between the two women. “Do I want to know?”
“Oh, yes,” Ariana replied, her lips curving into a faint smirk.
“Templars have been following me lately. Shadow seems like a strong word since they really aren’t very good at the whole scouting thing.”
Before anyone could respond, the door opened, and Cullen and Michael stepped into the suite. Cullen rushed to Ariana’s side, crouching beside her chair, his eyes scanning her as though expecting to find her injured.
“What happened?” Michael asked, his tone urgent.
“You know… it really would have been helpful if you had gotten here earlier,” Hawke teased, leaning back in her chair. “We just explained everything.”
Cullen ignored the banter, his hazel eyes fixed on Ariana. “Ari, are you alright?” he asked softly, his voice laced with worry.
Ariana offered him a reassuring smile, her hand brushing his cheek. “Cullen, I’m fine. Nothing happened. Hawke was there, and Guard-Captain Aveline stepped in.” She kissed his cheek lightly, motioning for him and Michael to take a seat. Reluctantly, Cullen rose and settled in the chair closest to hers, though his tension was still palpable.
“It appears,” Ariana began with a soft sigh, “that Templars have been following me recently. Do you know why?” Her gaze turned to Cullen, her tone steady but questioning.
Cullen took a deep breath, pinching the bridge of his nose. “I didn’t think she’d resort to this,” he murmured, though his voice was loud enough for everyone to hear.
“What are you talking about, Cullen?” Michael’s voice was sharper now, his concern evident.
“Meredith,” Cullen replied, his frustration spilling into his tone.
“She asked me to bring Ariana in for questioning concerning the intercepted mage transport.” He exhaled sharply, his jaw tightening. “I thought… it was settled.”
Varric let out a low whistle, setting his wine glass down. “Settled? With Meredith? Come on, Curly, you know she doesn’t let things go. Especially not when it comes to… well, anyone with a spine.”
“She’s watching you, Ariana,” Riley added, her tone grim. “And now she’s making sure you know it.”
Cullen’s head dropped into his hands, his voice muffled. “This isn’t how it should be. Ari, this is my fault. If it weren’t for me…”
“No,” Ariana interrupted firmly, placing a hand on his arm. “This isn’t your fault, Cullen. And letting Meredith think she can intimidate me into…” She paused, not wanting to voice the thought out loud. “It’s not a solution.”
“It might not be a solution, but…” Michael began hesitantly, though his words trailed off at Ariana’s sharp look.
Hawke, leaning forward now, crossed her arms. “It’s not going to change anything at this point. Meredith’s already got her sights on you. Giving her an inch isn’t going to make her back off.”
Riley nodded. “Hawke’s right. We need to keep our eyes open. She’s not going to stop unless we give her a reason to.”
“I’ll reach out to my network,” Varric added, his voice more serious than usual. “See what I can dig up. There’s got to be something we can use to take the heat off.”
The room fell into a contemplative silence for a moment before Cullen stood, his expression still troubled. “I’ll walk you home,” he said quietly, looking at Ariana.
Michael stood as well, his expression resolute. “I’m coming too.”
Ariana shook her head, her tone light despite the heaviness of the discussion. “That’s not necessary, Cullen. I—”
“It wasn’t a question,” Cullen cut her off, his gaze steady. Despite the tension, Ariana couldn’t help but smile faintly, finding his protectiveness endearing.
“You all know I live three doors down from Ariana; I could just walk back with her,” Hawke teased, raising her glass with a smirk. “If you’ll just wait until I finish my wine, at least.”
Cullen and Michael shot her a sharp look that made it clear they were going. Hawke put her hands up in mock surrender. “Well, a Templar escort it is then.”
Ariana sighed heavily. “Would you both sit down?” her tone more commanding than she intended.
Cullen glanced at Michael, his jaw tightening as if reluctant to back down. Michael, for his part, mirrored the same resolve, though his hands clenched into fists at his sides. When they both sat, it was with the air of soldiers reluctantly obeying orders—not from a commanding officer, but from someone they couldn’t bear to argue with.
Ariana knew Cullen was this worried. And if she were honest, she didn’t mind it all that much. She appreciated how much he cared. On the other hand, she found Michael’s protectiveness endearing and somewhat unexpected. While she still disliked the circumstances under which Michael ended up in Kirkwall, she was somewhat thankful for them. For once in her life, she had a relationship with at least one of her siblings. Something that felt strange and yet… comforting.
She could feel the weight of their concern pressing against her like armor too heavy to bear. She loved them both for it, but there was a bitter edge to their protectiveness. Cullen and Michael, for all their strength and resolve, were bound by Meredith’s leash. Hawke and Riley, however, were free—untouchable in ways neither Templar could afford to be.
“While I appreciate how much you both care, if our concern is that Meredith will try again to arrest me, it would be best if Hawke and Riley walked with me.” Ariana said calmly, “Neither of you can afford to openly defy Meredith. If you do, we will all be in more trouble.”
“I…” Cullen hesitated for a moment, visibly frustrated. “You’re right. Maker… I hate it, but you’re right.”
His fists clenched briefly before he exhaled, his gaze softening as it settled on her. “I just don’t want to feel powerless again, Ari. Not when it comes to you.”
Ariana placed a hand over his to reassure him, pressing a kiss to his cheek. She lingered for a moment, her hand brushing against his. “You’re not powerless, Cullen. You’re doing more than you realize just by being here.” Her voice softened, her gaze steady as she spoke. “And when the time comes, I know you’ll do what’s right.”
Cullen’s gaze held hers for a beat longer before he nodded, some of the tension in his shoulders easing. Ariana gently squeezed his hand before straightening and turning back to the others.
“Alright, you two,” she said, her tone lighter now, though the weight of the conversation still lingered. “How about you grab a drink and let us all have one peaceful night? We’ve earned it.”
Michael arched an eyebrow but didn’t argue, settling back in his chair. Cullen hesitated momentarily before rising and moving toward the small bar in the corner of the suite, his steps less heavy than before.
“I’ll get the first round,” Cullen said over his shoulder, his voice carrying a touch of warmth.
Varric raised his glass, his grin returning. “Now you’re getting the hang of it, Curly.”
Ariana chuckled softly, settling back in her seat as the conversation shifted to lighter topics. The air in the room lightened, and for a while, the burdens they carried seemed just a little further away. They stayed like that for hours—talking, laughing, and letting the shadows of Kirkwall fade into the background, if only for a little while.