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There were a few things Rook had learned about the Inquisitor in the short time they had actually been speaking. First, as intimidated as he was at first by her, she was actually an incredibly friendly down to earth sort of person. Second, she cared ferociously about everyone around her. Their best interest was always in the forefront of her mind at all times. Rook was unsure if this was a good thing or a weakness that could be exploited; he would have to figure that out. And three, even though she was constantly surrounded by others on her stay here; she still seemed rather lonely. During their time together, he would often catch her looking around as if she was looking for someone in particular. Other times, she seemed to be staring at something with a far off expression. Rook recognized this as longing but for what he was unsure. The last thing, she loved gossip and it seemed that Harding along with Dorian gave her plenty of that. Rook was pretty sure Morrigan was in on it as well at this point.
Today, Rook had gone to meet the Inquisitor as he always had. Normally when meeting he would leave his companions back at the lighthouse but today was going to be a rather busy day so Emmrich and Harding had come with him.
Emmrich in particular had been rather excited to be allowed to come along. Despite being a professor and an excellent lecturer, he was not well traveled. If you wanted to hear one of Professor Valkarin’s enthralling lectures; you needed to come to him. It was not uncommon for most watchers to rarely leave the Necropolis so this was nothing unusual.
The party did have a bit of time to kill before meeting with the Inquisitor so Rook decided to take Emmrich to the markets in particular. Neve had personally recommended a few stalls that she thought would be of particular interest to the two Mourn Watchers. Harding had watched in amusement as the two watchers had lively discussions about various tomes they had found, even deciding to take a few back to the lighthouse.
Rook had never had a fellow watcher as a friend before since he in particular was not permitted such dalliances. He was raised that his duties to the dead were absolutely everything, we do not connect with mortals but the undead his mother figure had told him on various occasions. Rook had wanted mortal connections but his parental figures loomed over him with very specific expectations. So, finding such companionship in Emmrich was particularly special to him.
As Harding followed the two watchers through the bustling market, she noticed that Rook paid a very particular attention to the older watcher. She would catch Rook just watching Emmrich quietly with a soft smile as the man looked at all the various wears that were around them. Harding let out a small huff and shook her head at the display. She had seen something of this nature play out before so she knew what would be on the horizon soon enough.
Then the party; of course, had to stop and find a gift to take back to Manfred. That gift ended up being a lovely little set of marbles in various colors. Emmrich had elaborated that for some reason as of late, Manfred had become particularly fascinated by marbles. Specifically blue marbles, which Emmrich found particularly curious. He was hoping he could entice his curious skeleton assistant into enjoying other colors as well.
With the sun now high in the sky, the party made their way across the city to the Cobbled Swan where Rook always found the Inquisitor and her companions.
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As he entered, he noticed the Inquisitor stood infront of the fire looking as if she was a million miles away. She stared at something small in her hand before clasping her hands together and bringing it to her chest. Her lips moved softly but Rook could not hear what was said, a prayer of sorts maybe? It was known that the Inquisitor carried deep beliefs in the Andrastian faith even after everything that had happened. That is when Rook noticed Harding glancing around the empty tavern as they moved deeper within.
“Hey Rook?” Harding paused as she scanned the tavern. The Swan was empty beside themselves, the Inquisitor and a suspicious looking bar keep. Rook suspected this bar keep was more than likely one of the Inquisitor’s honor guards. He highly doubted that Dorian or Morrigan would let the Inquisitor to just wander around Minrathous alone.
“Is something the matter Harding?” Rook began to look around himself. Nothing seemed out of place compared to the previous times he had come to this place.
“Is the Inquisitor always alone?” Rook thought back. She wasn’t always alone, normally Dorian or Morrigan in tow with her but even they seemed to keep their distance a certain amount at times from her.
“Normally Dorian or Morrigan is here but I have never seen anyone else with her” He commented as he watched the Inquisitor slide whatever was in her hand back into her breast pocket. The pocket that might be considered over the heart by some.
”That is so strange” Harding commented softly as the Inquisitor turned to face them as she finally noticed them. The distant expression disappears into a smile.
“Good afternoon Rook! Oh, I see you brought friends” The Inquisitor made her way over quickly to greet everyone. She seemed excited at the prospect of company.
“It is good to see you, Inquisitor!” Harding said as chipper as ever with a smile. Rook smiled at the woman as well then began to notice she wasn’t in her normally casual wear but armor with two blades sitting on her back.
“Rough time getting here?” Rook commented as he motioned to her current outfit which made the Inquisitor laugh.
“Not quite Rook, just helping a old friend with a favor since he was in these parts” that is when her attention turned to Emmrich. She knew of each of Rook’s companions fairly well from missives sent by Harding but had yet to meet barely any of them.
“You must be Professor Volkarin. I cannot tell you how exciting it is to have a necromancer of your caliber joining the guard. I have read some of your work and it is always so incredibly fascinating” Rook smiled as the Inquisitor doled out praise to his older counterpart. Emmrich looked a bit taken aback for a moment by her enthusiasm before a large smile spread across his face.
“The Inquisitor herself being fascinated by my work is high praise indeed considering you also had a talented necromancer as a part of your inner circle. And please, call me Emmrich” his hands laced together in front of him as he kept a friendly smile. The inquisitor seemed to beam at that.
“Well Emmrich, we must have tea sometime! I have so many questions I would love to ask. When you get a moment, of course” Rook never really took the Inquisitor for someone so interested in what south Thedas would consider the occult but you learn something new everyday. In a way, it did make sense; she had been steeped in fade magic and death for so long so having questions and curiosities would be a natural progression in his mind. He did have to wonder if her Nevarren companion had piqued that interest in any capacity.
“It would be an honor to speak with you on the matter. I truly look forward to it” Rook looked at Emmrich as he spoke with a smile. Ever the polite gentleman that one but he could tell there was a hint of excitement to his voice. If there is one thing he knew of his fellow watcher, the man loved to talk of his work in the Necropolis. Rook adored that about him. Where most watchers he knew would shy away from the topic with outsiders, Emmrich was truly an educator for everyone on the subject.
“Now, Harding, Emmrich, why don’t you make yourselves comfortable while Rook and I go have a chat. Feel free to order anything you desire on my coin. I hear they serve a very hearty stew and a great variety of teas here” She said as she looked at the two of them.
“You know, my dear friend; if you keep offering to buy everyone food on what is left of the Inquisition coin, Josephine is going to have a fit when looking at the ledgers” A voice rang out from behind the group. With hearing that voice, the Inquisitor positivity lit up. Before Rook knew it she had disappeared from in front of them and was now across the room with the new arrival.
“Dorian!” She called out as she practically crashed into him, hugging him as he laughed. Dorian gave her a quick hug before pulling back with a smile.
“As lively as ever, it is good to see you as well. Also please do be careful, I am quite fragile these days you know” He said with a slight pout before looking her up and down. His eyes narrowed and his nose crinkled slightly at her attire. The Inquisitor gave him a questioning look before Dorian gestured up and down at her armor.
“I was doing a friend a favor!” She exclaimed as Dorian shook his head at her.
“Getting a missive from Bull and then just deciding to go on a rather thrilling bounty hunt because you are bored is not doing a friend a favor” Dorian said in a scalding yet playful tone as he shook his finger at her.
“I mean he did ask if I was bored and wanted to come. And you know everyone keeps me out of the fray to protect me all the time, I just wanted to have a little of the old days. Plus you know Krem is helping down south so the least I could do was help for taking one of Bull’s best” The Inquisitor put her hands on her hips as she spoke. Her sass getting the better of her. Dorian’s face softened at her words.
“Where I do appreciate you helping and caring about my Amatus. I would prefer you keep yourself out of danger, I would hate to have to explain to anyone in particular that I didn’t keep an eye on you and you got yourself hurt reliving the glory days” the Inquisitor stiffened at his words for a moment before sighing.
“I promise, I wasn’t doing anything dangerous, Dorian. This hunt was practically child play for us. You know I don't make a habit of going out and getting myself hurt recklessly. “ She said softly as he sighed in defeat while looking up at her.
“As long as you promise, it isn’t nice to give your dear friend premature wrinkles. But just so you know I was going to have a surprise for you but I am not sure you deserve it after running off to play mercenary” he smiled with a gleam in his eye and the Inquisitor frowned.
“You know I love surprises” She said in a serious tone which made Dorian laugh.
“How about we don’t leave Rook and their companions waiting any longer. If that goes well then I will think about allowing you to have what I have cooked up for you” the Inquisitor huffed a bit as she turned around and began walking back over toward Rook. Dorian actually looked a bit relieved that she gave up so easily. In truth, his surprise seemed to be running just a little late and had yet to arrive. If it didn’t soon, he would have to go through the hassle of sending a search party.
The Inquisitor stopped for a moment which made Dorian almost run into her. Dorian made a slightly annoyed sound as he looked around the Inquisitor. Across the room stood Rook with one of his companions, an older gentleman that Dorian did recognize. It seemed Harding had already abandoned them in favor of a nice warm bowl of stew in the corner.
They looked to be speaking with each other quietly and the younger watcher wore the softest smile possible on his face. The older man held his hand out slightly to the younger. Rook took it so softly as if it would break and seemed to be looking at one of the golden rings decorating the elder's hand. The older companion wore a pleased smile as he explained something to Rook. The young watcher watched the older man explain while glancing up through his eyelashes then back down. Whatever the older man was explaining left a slightly pink dusting on the young watcher’s cheeks as he slowly let go of the other’s hand.
Dorian hummed at the display before him which made the Inquisitor make direct eye contact with him. A small knowing smirk was on her face that Dorian returned.
“Ah Love at the end of the world, a beautiful sight” Dorian whispered to the Inquisitor as she let out a small giggle before resuming her rather short trek back to Rook and his companion.
“Sorry to keep you waiting Rook” The inquisitor said in a chipper tone before looking at Dorian who joined her.
“Good Afternoon everyone” Dorian said as he looked at the crew before him. Both Rook and Emmrich seemed to straighten up at the new arrival. Only Rook and Emmrich remained as Harding had abandoned them to get comfortable with a bowl of stew in the corner. The Inquisitor looked between the two for a moment before giving Dorian an even more knowing look which made Dorian chuckle.
“Afternoon Dorian, it is good to see you well” Rook reply and he glanced up at Emmrich for a moment noticing the man was politely smiling with him hands clasp gentle in front of him.
“Good Afternoon, Magister Pavus. It is a pleasure to remeet your acquaintance.” Dorian observed the man for a moment before offering him a smile.
“ I am surprised to see such an esteemed professor as yourself released from the Necropolis to help our dear Rook. Do tell me, were you two friends prior to this little misadventure we are having?” Dorian’s question seemed to have peeked the Inquisitor’s ears as she looked back and further between the both of them. Rook shook his head before Emmrich answered.
“ We never personally met prior to my assignment with the Veilguard but I believe Rook did attend a few of my lectures. Isn’t that correct Rook?” Emmrich looked to Rook with a pleasant smile which made Rook smile back.
“I was actually incredibly lucky to be able to get into the ones I did. You would not believe the demand for certain topics. There are waitlists and everything. It also got way worse after everyone saw his assistant” Emmrich looked surprised at Rook’s words.
‘It would seem I was not aware just how in demand my lectures were around the Necropolis.” Emmrich murmured thoughtfully, glancing over at Rook.
‘I believe that demand has always been there. When I was younger, my father used his position in the magisterium to get myself into your lectures. Quite fascinating all of it” Rook tilted his head for a moment. Emmrich had never mentioned meeting the Inquisitor’s personal necromancer.
‘Ah yes, I remember! Has your terribly flippant attitude towards the dead changed in your older years?’ The Inquisitor snorted at the question which made Dorian give her a slight glare.
‘I assure you Professor Valkarin, I am always respectful to the dead” Dorian said in a clipped tone as he crossed his arms in front of his chest. It took everything in the Inquisitor to not start laughing at his statement. She personally knew that was a ridiculous lie on Dorian’s part. Rook shook his head as a slightly annoyed expression set into Emmrich’s face.
“I don’t mean to intrude on this lovely conversation but business needs to be done. So, Emmrich, why don’t you join Harding for some refreshments while Rook and I get down to business” The Inquisitor interrupted as politely as possible. All she needed was Dorian getting overly catty and starting a fight with Emmrich. She truly didn’t know Emmrich well enough to know if he would take Dorian’s bait on the subject, she didn’t have all night to sit and listen to a debate. The Inquisitor was a busy woman after all. The sooner she could take care of all the issues in the north, the sooner she could return to the south. Return to what truly mattered to her.
“If you should need any assistance Rook, myself and Harding will be over there” Emmrich turned to join Harding who had seemed to have already ordered tea for the older man as a teapot sat on the table in front of her. Rook watched him take his leave before turning back to his other company.
“Shall we?” The Inquisitor spoke as she turned to move into the other dining area. Rook found it so odd seeing her dressed in her armor. He could tell it was well taken care of and well traveled, it seemed something incredibly special to her even after all this time. In a way, it surprised him to see her dressed this way. Over their conversations he had forgotten she was more than just a figurehead for the Inquisition but also the main boots on the ground in most cases. Much like him, she always made sure she fought her battles personally and was at every conflict on the ground with her companions. Rook felt a slight sense of wonder watching her move into the other room, this was the Inquisitor.
“Are you just realizing who you have been speaking to?” Dorian watched Rook’s expression as Rook seemed to come out of thought.
“Sometimes, it is easy to forget who she really is…who she was and everything she did until you see her like this” Rook mumbled slightly as Dorian watched the Inquisitor in front of them.
Dorian mused that she hadn’t changed that much since they first met ten years ago. She was still as lively, stubborn and fierce as ever, especially behind closed doors, always moving forward for betterment and never looking back. That was the Inquisitor he knew, a fearless woman who would take everything on her shoulder if it met that others would be safe and sound. She was incredibly kind to those who stuck with her, loyal to a fault. Dorian remembers the fight that ensued when himself, Cullen and some of their fellow inner circle companions had begged her to take a rest and let Rook handle the north. She had fought so hard to try and retain control, how could she keep everyone safe if she wasn’t in control. In the end, it was Cullen who convinced her to allow Rook to take over after many hours of arguments.
The Inquisitor settled at a table in front of the fire before motioning Rook and Dorian to sit. Dorian placed himself next to the Inquisitor which Rook sat across. He watched a pensive look cross her face for a moment before she looked up at him.
“On to my absolutely favorite subject, Solas and the old Gods, Varric sent me some information to find in the old Inquisition libraries…it was quite a trek back to Skyhold but I did find what you requested.” She pulled out a stack of slightly crumpled papers along with a larger weathered tome out of her pack before sliding them to Rook.
“I also found this. I don’t make it a habit to go through old companions' things but I had a feeling. I never saw this in his things before so I am unsure if I was overlooking it when I was upset or it was planted now but I entrust this to you.” A small book that seemed to have seen better days was slid across the table. Rook took the old book and opened it before humming slightly when glancing through the pages.
“I am not particularly well versed in ancient elven but I hear you have an expert on hand for that since mine seems to be trying to end the world” there was a bite to that last part of her worlds. Rook looked at her for a moment, she looked rather angry now even speaking about her former companion.
“I feel like companions are kinda a luck of the draw, sometimes you get good eggs and other times you get eggs that want to end the world. We all make bad calls” Rook said humorously as he tried to decipher one of the diagrams in the book. He was not well versed in old elven either but knew enough to get by in the more ancient of tombs. He figured that he and Bellara could have a fun evening over snacks trying to get it all figured out.
“This is true, no one’s perfect” The inquisitor let out a sad chuckle at that before getting a small smile on her face, one that seemed almost mischievous.
“Speaking of companions, the rumor is you and a particular senior watcher have…become a little close?” The mischievous smile never left her face as she spoke. He saw Dorian to the side shake his head a bit in slight disbelief.
“Ever the gossip but I will say I do find myself rather curious” Dorian now joined in with the Inquisitor looking at Rook with an expectant gaze.
“What?” Rook said, a bit surprised, while the small book dropped from his hand hitting the papers below. He knew the Inquisitor had ears and eyes everywhere but he figured him and Emmrich had been discreet enough with their newly blooming affections. Rook thought for a moment, maybe their definition of discreet here in the north was different than the south?
”I am unsure what you are talking about Inquisitor. I assure you there is to be no fraternization going on in the Veilguard ranks. Wouldn’t dream of it” Rook waved his hands in front of his body in a no gesture. His tone high and a bit nervous which made the Inquisitor burst out laughing, she has flustered the poor man. At this point in time, Rook had no idea what was in store for the Veilguard but those words would turn out to be an utter and complete lie here soon.
“Then what was that moment earlier?” Dorian questioned as Rook brightened thinking about when he was speaking to Emmrich. Rook had been making an odd habit about asking Emmrich about his grave gold pieces he wore, all watchers tended to have them and they all had stories as to what made them special enough to wear. Today, Rook had just happened to ask about one incredibly special piece in particular.
“Rook, it’s fine. You act like I would be upset if all of you found companionship with each other as the world could be possibly ending. Everyone needs someone, whether that is friends that you make for the rest of your lifetime” she looked at Dorian with the softest smile. He smiled back at her looking touched.
“Or the other half of your soul, that you can hold on to for the rest of your days. There is nothing wrong with love at possibly the end of the world. Honestly…I tried to encourage these connections, it gives everyone something very personal to keep fighting for” She looked down as she pulled out the item she had placed in her pocket earlier. A small weathered coin with the image of Andreste on a broken string sat in her hand. She looked down at it with the softest smile he had ever seen grace her face.
Rook’s nose crinkled slightly as she spoke about the other half of one’s soul. Soulmates were a very romantic southern idea but any watcher knew that it was simply untrue. There was no such thing as an incomplete soul, at least none he had ever read or seen? The notion was romantic but silly nonsense…right?
“Someone to fight for, someone who is always in your corner even at the end of the world. Unwavering support and loyalty for the one who always runs into danger. You may disagree, you may fight about things but at the end of the day, they are there to remind you above all else, that you are still just you. Not the Inquisitor, nor Rook but just you. They ground you at the worst of times and uplift you at your best. That is why I wholeheartedly encourage these types of relationships especially under our circumstances” Rook stared at her as she looked at him with a smile. Her voice was soft and calming as she spoke.
Rook had to admit as he admitted to Varric in particular, he was scared of the bonds he was making. He had been worried if it was appropriate to make such strong bonds with his fellow companions. The feelings of warmth he felt while traveling with everyone, the family he never really had among the spirits of the Necropolis. His blossoming intimate feelings for Emmrich, which he had to admit he had no experience with besides the raunchy romance novels that were hidden in the Necropolis library. It was all a bit overwhelming for him after being among the dead for so long.
“Varric must have written to you then?” Rook looked down at the table, his hand ringing together on his lap.
”He did. He said you were having some worries that I could ease as I have done this all before. Rook, you don’t need to go through Varric for such things, if you need any advice, anything, you can call upon me or send me a missive and I will answer. Let me be your mentor, let me help you ease yourself into this leadership. Varric is wonderful at grounding you but for anything more, you may need a bit extra and that is where I come in. Also, I hear from friends that I make a particularly good wingman” She winked at him with the last sentence as Dorain laughed at the comment.
“I can speak to that. I wouldn’t have my Amatus if she didn’t encourage those dalliances” Rook blushed a bit as he looked out toward the other dining area where Emmrich and Harding looked to be having pleasant conversation. With a sigh, he relented, Emmrich was worth it.
“Honestly, I have no idea what I am doing. Everything has just seemed to fall in place in certain respects so far. I mean there are issues but we overcome them. This goes for my leadership as Rook and my….love life” the Inquisitor set her coin softly on the table tracing the features.
“Leadership is something that is learned since how you will lead each group can be totally different based on the needs and wants of the organization and your companions around you. How I led the Inquisition would be totally different than how I would personally lead the Veilguard. Your approach thus far from what I know from Varric has been perfect. You know your companions, their hopes, their dreams and what they wish to protect. And you are trying to help them work out their issues. The most important key to the Veilguard’s success is that everyone is united. You being close to them and feeling those bonds is so important to this being successful ” Rook listened to her every word quietly absorbing each one. She continued to trace the image on the coin gently. So, he was doing this right? He thought to himself.
“As for Emmrich, Harding says you spend a lot of time together and he is always in the field with you. It seems that his presence is a comfort from the looks you exchanged earlier so I am unsure why you say you have no idea what you are doing. What do you like about Emmrich that has you so smitten?” She glanced out to the dining hall where she caught the older man staring into the room with a slightly worried expression.
“I am not smit…” Rook let out a sigh, he couldn’t refute this seeing that the Inquisitor obviously had information on the subject from those around him and seen the moment earlier plus she had seen that earlier display. That also worried him in a way but that would be a subject he would deal with later. The Inquisitor looked amused at his flustered nature on the subject.
“Emmirch is…..” Rook glanced back into the other room noticing the other man meeting his glaze with a slightly questioning look. A look that read, is everything alright Rook? He could hear the words in his head as he looked back to the Inquisitor.
“We get each other. We can talk about everything we have experienced in the Necropolis and it isn't strange or weird. It is just our lives, there is something about sharing experiences with someone who understands. He also speaks of the most fascinating things and with his experience, he shows me things I could only dream of seeing on my own even as a fellow Mourn Watcher” the Inquisitor hums a bit as Rook explains, stopping the movements on her coin.
“Plus…..he is kind, so incredibly intelligent and very considerate. There is also a vulnerability there. Not many in our line of work will admit any sort of fear, it isn’t in our business but Emmrich does and he does to me. We trust each other above all else cause a fear like that isn’t spoken about lightly. And after working with the dead for so long…there is something so appealing to me about being mortal and experiencing these things. I guess in a way… we are exploring our mortality together” Rook smiled when explaining, his hands moving softly as he explained.
“A tad bit morbid but there is something so endearing about that. It is rather romantic thinking about two Mourn Watchers coming to explore what it truly means to be mortal from the folks on the outside since I know most watchers rarely leave to other parts of Thedas. I would be careful tho, make your love story too endearing and Varric will be writing a novel about you two. Trust me, I know from experience” Rook looked at her surprised for a moment.
“He really wrote a novel about you and ….” Rook trailed off as a bark filled the Cobbled Swan. The Inquisitor blinked and looked at Dorian who in turn looked very pleased with himself.
“Dorian, I thought we had the Swan for that day?” Her tone was slow and questioning as Dorian sat looking even more pleased with himself.
“We do have the Swan for the whole day but it sounds like my surprise has finally arrived” His voice sing songy in a way, almost teasing. The Inquisitor looked unamused for a moment.
“You got me a Mabari? I mean I adore Mabari and you know this but we have plenty of Mabari back….” She stopped mid sentence when she saw what Mabari come prancing through the doorway. Her eyes slowly looked toward Dorian growing in size as the Mabari nudged her hand softly. Dorian smiled at her softly as commotion could be heard in the other room.
“Oh Hey Commander, what are you doing here? Oh scratch that, I know what you are doing here” Harding said in greeting with a laugh. The Inquisitor grabbed her lucky charm off the table while scrambling out of her chair, almost falling onto the floor. Dorian laughed at the display as the Mabari barked happily as it ran back into the other room. A new voice entered the Swan area as the Mabari disappeared out of Rook’s sight. Rook looked over to Dorian with a look of absolute confusion.
“Did you find her boy?” Rook had never heard this particular voice before. Excited barking could be heard from the other room and the jiggling of a collar. But whoever it was had the Inquisitor frozen in her tracks in the doorway between the rooms. Her hands moving up to her mouth to cover the small gasp she made when hearing that voice.
Months, it had been months since they had been together since she had seen him, had held him and now he was here. Since the Inquisition disbanded ten years ago, they were rarely apart. They always traveled together, he was her greatest shield, advisor and confidant. It tore her apart to have to leave him in Ferelden but she knew they needed him, they needed a commander with the blight banging on their door. King Alastair needed him until one of her greatest allies had arrived; she knew this.
She penned a letter the evening before leaving and left it on his nightstand. Without so much as a spoken word she spirited into the night to try to save what little world was left as she always had. Was he cross with her? Oh yes…he had been rather cross with her from the missive she received a few days later but he knew duty had to come first once again. They had a world to save and he would support her with anything he could provide.
They had written to one another at length but most of the missives were of a Commander and Inquisitor nature. They fell back into their respective roles with ease but once in a while, one of Leliana’s personal crows would be carrying a love letter. The Inquisitor would cherish these letters even though the Commander wasn’t the greatest at love letter correspondence.
“Don’t just stand there. I worked hard for this lover’s reunion. Go to him” Dorian had moved to the Inquisitor and nudged her lightly. The man looked toward the voice and his eyes met those of the Inquisitor. He absolutely beamed upon seeing her. Once the smile graced his face, she took off, absolutely flying into his waiting arms. The force of her knocking the man to the ground with a thud. The thud elicited a laugh from Harding and an Oh my, are you alright? from Emmrich who now watched the couple gather themselves on the floor. The Mabari now danced around them barking happily at the reunion.
“Cullen” her voice was faint and a bit watery. Cullen reached up and placed his hand gently on her face, she leaned into the touch. It was so grounding and warm. The most loving glaze placed on his face.
“Maker’s Breath, what am I going to do with you?” His voice was soft and loving as tears rolled down the Inquisitor’s face. Maker, she missed him so much.
“You’re here” Her hands came up to his chest to feel his heartbeat. Cullen was here, he was real and back beside her at last.
“You know, wherever you are is where I need to be” He spoke softly as she buried herself in his chest. This was right, everything was right now. Cullen wrapped his arms around her tightly almost protectively as he could hear her sniffle into his chest. His face buried in her hair and sigh of relief could be heard from that man. His Inquisitor was safe, sound and back in his arms where he wanted her the most.
When she pulled away, she just stared at his face for a moment before kissing him. Cullen sighed happily into the kiss, wrapping an arm protectively around her waist.
Rook watched the scene from where he now stood next to Dorian with a slightly questioning look. Dorian watched the two with a soft smile on his face. The man had been watching his dearest friend the whole time she had graced his city, on the outside she appeared to be happy, appeared to be fine. But in her quiet moments, he would catch the lonely and sad expression as she looked into the distance. The longing sighs when something reminded her of her commander. The turns in conversation like she was expecting someone else to be there, in the last 10 years they two had become so ingrained into one another. So, he got to work with some special help to make sure they could return to one another as soon as possible.
“It is not very becoming of you Dorian to take all the credit for this reunion when it twas I that did most of the hard work” Dorian turned to face the new voice. Morrigan had strolled in from the back of the tavern.
“Ah Good Evening Morrigan, I see everything was a success” Morrigan looked completely unimpressed with his friendly tone. Rook nodded in greeting to Morrigan. He has to admit the witch still made him a bit uncomfortable, there was just something about how magic just wrapped around her.
“It ‘twas but I feel that two sickeningly romantic reunions is enough for me for one day” Her tone sounded a bit disgusted as Dorian laughed at it.
“Two sickeningly romantic reunions?” Rook asked a bit perplexed as he watched the commander help the inquisitor off the floor with ease.
“For the Commander to come here to be with the Inquisitor, he had to be replaced. The only replacement the Inquisitor would allow twas an old friend of mine. So, I retrieved the Hero of Fereldan and took her home to her fool” Rook blinked his mouth slightly agape at the name. It had been many years since he had heard whispers about the Hero of Fereldan.
“Twas sickening. Alistair would not stop sobbing and Alanna insisted on making his blubbering worse. But what matters is that the south is in good hands. Alanna will easily make sure everything is put back into order, the idiot will listen to her” Morrigan put her hand on her hip as she spoke.
Rook began to wonder, how many connections did the Inquisitor actually have at this point? A small thought popped into his head, if she had all these amazing connections, then why did she actually need him?
He watched as she stood so comfortable next to Cullen. His arm draped loosely around her waist as they spoke to Harding and Emmrich. Cullen looked a bit nervous while rubbing the back of his neck when the Inquisitor was introducing him to Emmrich.
Rook moved into the room with his companions which caught the attention of the far happier Inquisitor. She smiled at him as he joined the other, taking a spot between Emmrich and Harding.
“Cullen, this is Rook. He is the leader of the Veilguard and much like Emmrich here, he is a fellow Mourn Watcher from Nevarra. He comes highly recommended by both Varric and Harding as an extraordinary talent” The Inquisitor spoke with some excitement. Cullen eyed the watcher up and down with a very slight frown which made Rook rather uncomfortable. The man was inspecting him.
“An Rook, this is Cullen Rutherford, Commander of the Inquisition armies, one of my closest advisors and my husband” the last part of the sentence was spoken so lovingly as she leaned into him. Rook silently mouthed o as he looked at Cullen who was still frowning just a bit at him. Rook would chalk up that expression to just being highly protective of his wife.
“A pleasure Commander Rutherford” Rook said in the most polite and respectful tone he could muster. The tone he would use when speaking to Nevarra royalty about funeral rites, perfect and practiced. This only made Cullen narrow his eyes more and pull the Inquisitor slightly closer. That action made the Inquisitor look at him with a small sigh.
“Forgive Cullen, he is far more comfortable these days with mages but he is not so great with the necromancy” she said as she patted Cullen’s chest softly. Rook and Emmrich gave each other a knowing look.
“I’m not…its not…I’m fine” Cullen said a bit flustered at her reply to the two necromancers. Rook let out a small chuckle watching the man fluster.
“It is more than alright, Inquisitor. I understand how we handle our dead and our necromancy magic can be very off putting to those in the south. Hopefully as we work together more we can come to find common ground and improve Cullen’s comfort. Harding seems to be more comfortable already.” Rook explained with as friendly a smile as he could, he glanced at Emmrich for a moment. A look of am I doing this right graced his face. He looked to the older watcher for advice on this matter since Emmrich was far more used to speaking with people from being a professor.
“If you would be inclined, Cullen, me and the Inquisitor were planning to enjoy some tea along with conversation about these very topics in the near future. It would be a great pleasure if you would decide to join us for that conversation. I believe it could ease your mind in regards to the Inquisitor working alongside us” Rook took a small sigh of relief as he watched Cullen’s face become a bit less hard. If anyone could be an ambassador for the Mourn watch and convince outsiders of the watchers good intentions, it would be Emmrich.
“Emmrich is really great at explaining all their customs and necromancy principles, Cullen. You should have heard the lecture I got when he saw a cremation happening. He was absolutely horrified” Harding laughed at the thought of listening to Emmrich’s exclamations over the southern ritual. That made Cullen turn to the Inquisitor and give her a slightly weary look. Which made her return an encouraging smile his way. Cullen let out a relenting sign before turning to Emmrich and Rook.
“What do you mean cremation, were we cremating someone?” Rook asked with a great deal of concern which made Harding laugh.
“No, no not us. Just some locals we ran into on a wonderful outing to a Chantry in Amaranthine . You know I would prefer to not allow such a barbaric practice in our ranks Rook” Harding watched Rook shake his head and make an inaudible comment under his breath. Cullen watched the exchange before clearing his throat and bringing attention back to himself and Inquisitor.
“I guess it would be rude to not accept” Cullen commented with a slight half smile which made the Inquisitor happy it seemed. It would be a start and Rook could work with a start. Emmrich smiled at Rook as he clapped his hands together softly.
“Maybe I can even bring Manfred, he loves to meet new people” Rook looked to Emmrich surprised before shaking his head and mouthing no to him.
“Or maybe not the best idea just yet?” Emmrich commented as he watched the expression of the younger man next to him. The inquisitor looked between the two with curiosity.
“Who is Manfred? Is there a third watcher on the team? Why would Varric need to have more Necromancers?” The Inquisitor seemed a bit excitable with this question. Did Varric have some sort of crazy plan that seemed like it could be right from one of his novels that he was keeping from her? Did he really want to keep her away from all the fun?
“Oh Maker’s Breath” Cullen murmured listening to his excitable wife. One necromancer on a team, Cullen could at least understand that. Two Necromancers…in this combination he could justify due to Emmrich seemed far more seasoned in the craft than Rook but three, whatever Varric had in mind sounded too dangerous for the Inquisitor to be involved in. That was way too much death magic for Cullen to personally be comfortable with.
”Oh goodness, no. Manfred isn’t a mourn watcher per say. He is my assistant” Emmrich elaborated to the group.
“A skeleton assistance, he is alright tho” Harding adds in a matter of fact manner. The inquisitor’s eyes lit up.
“A reanimated skeleton as an assistant. How incredible! Does he have a personality or it is just sort of the do my bidding kinda magical control like you would use on an inanimate object? I know Dorian’s skeletons were the just do my bidding kind” Emmrich laughed lightly at her explanation of the fellow Necromancer’s magic before a pleased smile crossed his face.
Rook smiled at the interaction watching Emmrich closely. Upon noticing he was staring he quickly looked away, a light blush dusted his cheeks. Rook was just starting to notice in addition to all the things he had told the Inquisitor earlier, Emmrich was also quite handsome. Rook had never really been one to really look at people for such things before so this odd feeling in his chest was all new to him. He believed it was referred to as butterflies in novels he has read.
“Manfred does indeed have a personality. As a spirit of curiosity, he does have the ability to grow and understand a variety of topics but he does require proper guidance to do so.” The inquisitor’s eyes seemed to glitter in curiosity as Emmrich spoke.
“Oh Cullen, Manfred has to come, it would be rude to exclude him” Cullen looked a little green at the thought of the reanimated skeleton. Where he was from, things died and stayed dead for the most part. He would prefer that the dead stayed dead as much as possible. But seeing his Inquisitor so excited at the prospect of seeing something new and fascinating just melted his heart. It wasn’t often she got this excited about things anymore. It was wonderful to see those eye’s sparkle. He would humor her this time.
“I guess that would be alright” His voice was cautious as the Inquisitor let out a slightly excited squeal and hugged the man. Emmrich looked rather pleased with the response. He had hoped Manfred would be able to come along since he would possibly be able to dispel a lot of Cullen’s negative notions of the practice.
“You’re the best Cull!” She exclaimed as she kissed his cheek which flustered the man a tad. Not one for an audience to their affections Rook figured.
Rook looked at the man who still looked a bit green at the idea, he was slightly flustered but smirked just a bit as he watched his wife excitedly speak to Emmrich about Manfred. He watched as Cullen watched her every move and moved his body to adjust so she was never far out of his grip. Rook was unsure if this man missed the closeness or was highly protective, maybe it was both but the thought of having someone that in tune with you did things to Rook.
Rook watched Emmrich closely as he regaled the Inquisitor with a story of Manfred’s mischief that happened this very morning. A smile here, a hand wave there, an inflection in his voice when presenting a humorous moment, Rook was starting to become highly aware of all these things. He wanted to see and hear so much more of it as he watched the man. And maybe just maybe, he wanted that man to hold on to him how Cullen held on to the Inquisitor at this very moment with a now besotted expression. He possibly wanted it way more than he would allow himself to admit which was ever so confusing for him.
“Earth to Rook is everything alright?” The Inquisitor’s voice broke through his thoughts. Rook shook his head, retrieving himself from his contemplations. He blinked a few times before noticing he had absolutely been staring at Emmrich the whole time he spoke. Emmrich looked at him with the most concerned expression which made Rook averted his gaze.
“Rook, are you feeling quite alright? You seemed to be a million miles away for just a moment. If you are feeling unwell.” Rook held up his hand which made Emmrich stop speaking for just a moment. The thought that he had been staring at the man for however long the story has been was making his cheeks feel like absolute fire. No wonder others were catching on, he was not being subtle at all.
“I’m quite alright, Emmrich. Just alot on my mind. Please don’t let me stop you from continuing” Rook looked away and down a bit trying to hide the blush that sat on his cheeks. This made Cullen glance at the Inquisitor who gave him a knowing grin.
“We were quite finished, Rook.” Emmrich watches the younger man with some concern as he stares at the floor. The Inquisitor looks to Cullen with a slight smile which makes him release her for a moment as she moves over to Rook. She moves close to Rook with slight concern.
“Anything else I should know before I meet this Manfred?” Cullen asked while looking at Emmrich uncomfortably. He was trying to give the Inquisitor a moment with Rook while hoping to distract the older man who seemed to be earning the younger’s affections. How in the maker did he get pulled into this, he just wanted to see his wife in peace. Instead he is getting dragged into a possible matchmaking plot if his wife’s expression is any indication. He knows that look so well.
“Oh yes! You see….” Emmrich began as his attention turned to the Commander who was trying to be as patient as he could with this whole situation. Emmrich could feel something was amiss with Rook but he couldn’t place his finger on what might have been bothering the young watcher. If it was anything about his current leadership role then Emmrich would take the discussion bait since the Inquisitor was far better suited to handle that topic than he.
The Inquisitor gently touched the young man’s shoulder moving him away just slightly which made him glance at her through his lashes. His face was still a bit red from the earlier situation. She gave him a warm, sympathetic smile.
“Listen to me. It is ok to be feeling everything you are feeling. The butterflies, the confusion, it is all normal. This is normal” She spoke so softly and warmly to Rook as he then moved to look at her. She doubted with Emmrich’s vibrate explanation of another Manfred story that he could hear what they were speaking about.
“I have never…a lot of watchers don’t……I wasn’t…I was discouraged from doing this. This is not what I am supposed to be doing ” Rook mumbled incredibly softly feeling a bit overwhelmed with all his new thoughts. He felt a slight squeeze on his shoulder where the inquisitor’s hand rested.
“It will be ok, Rook. Just remember, you are going to be exploring what it means to be among us mortals now. We are filled with so many vibrant emotions, beautiful, wonderful, messy emotions. One of the greatest emotions one of us can ever experience is love” She whispered so softly to him. Rook looked at her a bit hopelessly for a moment. His lessons at the Necropolis never prepared him for something like this and he still felt lost.
“What if I mess this all up?” was such a hush whisper as he watched her face. She removed her hand from his shoulder and took his hand softly. Her soft touch and smile exuded so much warmth and comfort.
“Much like leading the Veilguard, you have to trust yourself. Just roll with everything like you always do and if it happens, then trust Emmrich to also help guide you. Just follow what your heart is saying and you will be fine” she patted his hand softly as he nodded. Slowly she let go and waited for him to offer her a smile before moving away.
She returned to Cullen with a soft knowing smile, his arm looping around her waist so easily once more. Emmrich finished his new story with a rather green looking commander and a rather soft looking Inquisitor.
“Manfred sounds positively lovely” She looked to Cullen who looked still positively green at the thought. But he was trying so hard for her and for that she was the most lucky woman in the world.
“Manfred is positively splendid, isn’t that right Rook?” Emmrich looked to the younger watcher who had turned back to the conversation with a pensive look.
“Yeah, Manfred is something quite incredible” Rook said as composed as he could in the moment while thinking about the Inquisitor’s words. This was not the Necropolis anymore, he was no longer just Watcher Ingellvar who tended the dead, no; now he was Rook who saved the living. And it was about time he tried to give this whole living thing a try.
“It is wonderful that you think so highly of Manfred. I am sure he would be overjoyed to hear such praise” Emmrich’s voice was alight with joy at Rook’s previous statement. Rook took a deep centering breath before looking back at Emmrich with a smile.
“Maybe I should tell him sometime and see how he reacts. Even Skeletons need praise from time to time” Emmrich looked absolutely delighted at this proposition which in turn made Rook delighted.
“Whatever you said must have helped” Cullen whispered softly into the Inquisitor’s ear. She glanced up at him for a moment with a sly smile.
“Did you doubt me Commander? I am a bit wounded ” She spoke softly enough for him to hear in a teasing manner while leaning into him.
“Not for a moment but please just warn me next time” He replayed back softly. The inquisitor chuckled for a moment.
“Just trying to keep you on your toes” she teased as she watched Rook say something to Harding as she made her way over.
“As much as I love to watch everyone stand around and chat, I believe it is time we all took our leave. I am a busy man and the Inquisitor is about to be an even more busy women” Dorain entered the little group with a certain lit to his voice as he spoke the last part. It seemed Morrigan had already slipped out during the conversation.
“That’s right, Rook. We have a lot to get done today. Lucanis wanted to speak with us in Trevisio then there are the Veil jumpers in need in Arlathan” Harding trailed off as Rook watched her start to count the items on today’s list on her fingers.
“As diligent as ever I see Harding” The inquisitor commented as she moved to take Cullen’s hand to head out the door.
“As always Inquisitor” She said brightly while watching the Inquisitor and the Commander head to the door hand in hand.
“Inquisitor” Dorian called after her which caused her to turn back and look at her friend in slight annoyance. He smiled at her devilishly.
”Please do keep in mind that I would like the desks in my home left in tack” Rook stared at Dorian with his mouth slightly agape at the words. Desks, his brain was slowly putting the pieces together as to what Dorian really met. He heard an oh my out of Emmrich next to him and a slight giggle out of Harding.
”Dorian!” The Inquisitor shouted at him. Cullen looked positively mortified at the statement, the older man’s face bright red at Dorian’s words. Rook then looked at the Inquisitor with large owl eyes as she looked positively embarrassed. Dorian just laughed as he passed by the two lovers trying to head out their door.
“I swear to the maker Dorian, next time Bull is in town” The Inquisitor stomped out with Cullen in tow who looked so flustered and exacerbated at this point. He was getting too old for this.
Rook slowly looked at Harding, his face bright red at this point. His brain completely working out what Dorian had meant, he didn’t know if he could look at the Inquisitor the same after that.
“Were they always this lively?” He asked Harding with a slight shake to his voice. Harding looked up at Rook with a huge smile.
“Oh yeah, they were actually way worse than this at Skyhold when everyone was together. They all played off each other for chaos. The Inquisitor has always been rather chaotic but she has a good heart. I am glad to see her still so fiery after everything she has been through” Harding looked thoughtful for a moment.
“Well, since everyone else has headed out. I guess we should also get moving” Rook said as he headed toward the door.
“Ya know Rook, I hope someday that we can all be like that. Even though we thought the world was ending, we still tried to have some fun in the Inquisition. The Inquisitor’s Wicked Grace nights were legendary” Harding’s eye seemed to sparkle as she spoke when heading out the door. That made Rook smile as he watched her head down the stairs.
“Rook, a word?” Emmrich’s voice rang from behind which made Rook turn to face his watcher companion.
”Emmrich?” He questioned softly as the man approached, stopping a few inches away to speak a bit more privately.
“Listen Rook, if there is anything that ails you; do not hesitate to come see me at once. I may not be a physician by trade but I can handle most ails with my abilities.” Emmrich sounded concerned as he spoke looking over Rook slightly which made Rook smile.
”I, thank you for your concern Emmrich but I can assure you I am feeling quite fine at the moment” Rook comments softly and Emmrich slots his hands delicately in front of him as he always does. The older watcher looks slightly unsure of himself for a moment before the polite smile returns.
“ Just know, Rook, that if you ever need a supportive ear or guidence; my door is alway open anytime you may need. I am sure Manfred would be delighted to show off his tea making skills to another who will truly appreciate them.” Emmrich stood with such a soft smile as he looked at Rook. A smile that made Rook just want to melt into the floor at that moment.
“I wouldn’t want to burden you with my problems, Emmrich. But I appreciate the offer, truly” Emmrich’s expression didn’t falter at Rook’s words.
“It would be no burden. I find that I have the most splendid of times when we get to spend time together.” Rook looked surprised for a moment before a slight blush settled into his cheeks.
“If it is no trouble then I think I would really enjoy that” Rook smiled at his fellow watcher who smiled back before taking his leave out the door.
Rook watched him go with a small smile before looking to the sky for just a moment. He feels like after speaking with the Inquisitor he found new resolution within himself. It was time for him to start experiencing what it was like to be among the living instead of the dead. He was just a bit unsure if doing it this way was the best or worse first step.