Chapter Text
“Anders. A letter arrived for you.” Orana walked into the sitting room. Fenris watched Anders stand and carefully walk across the room to Orana. She smiled and placed the letter in his hand.
“Thank you, Orana.”
“Lunch is a cold nug ham and cheese platter, rolls, and fruit.”
“Cookies?” Anders looked hopeful.
“And cookies,” Orana said. She gave Fenris a smile and then flitted from the room.
“We got lucky that she wanted to stay,” Anders said as he made his way back to the couch.
“Mm. She really likes you.” Fenris put his book to the side and gave Anders his full attention. “Who is it from?”
Anders stiffened. “From the Warden Commander.”
Icy tendrils spread through Fenris. He clenched his hands into fists as he waited for Anders to read the letter. It seemed like an age; Anders read it and then read it again. Finally, when Fenris felt like he was about to come apart from anxiety, Anders looked up at him.
“She said that Nathaniel told her what happened. She said that it sounds like I am doing good here, and she’s sending an official notice to the Gallows telling them that I am here under orders.” Anders shook the letter at Fenris. “She’s declaring me an official envoy from the Wardens to aid with the refugees.”
“Can she do that?” Fenris could feel the unfamiliar feeling of hope fill him.
“She’s the Warden Commander. We don’t answer to any local government. She can say whatever she wants.” Anders rubbed a hand over his face. “She’s saved me again.”
Fenris moved to sit next to Anders. He took the letter from Anders’ hands and placed it on the low table in front of the couch. “Are you alright?”
“Maker. I never thought…” Anders laughed. “I knew I would never be allowed to just flee the Wardens but…this….”
Fenris took Anders’ hand. “Anders.”
“Fenris?”
“I told Nathaniel they could not have you back.”
“She’s just working around you.”
Fenris squeezed Anders’ hand. “Are you alright?”
“I am. I really am.”
“Good. I’m ready for lunch if you are. Orana did say she made cookies.” Fenris stood. He watched with pride as Anders stood as well and turned to walk from the room. The letter was left on the low table. As far as Fenris was concerned, the worst that could happen had.
“Fenris?” Anders called out.
“I’m coming.” Fenris responded. He walked to where Anders was standing. He smiled, took Anders’ hand, and walked with him to the kitchen.