Dawn of Beginning | By : EunjiMinJeon Category: +A through F > Dragon Age (all) > Dragon Age (all) Views: 2459 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0 |
Disclaimer: I do not own Dragon Age world nor characters. |
After letting her friend into the room, the short petite woman shut the door behind them. She wanted to make sure the heat didn’t leave the office. It was a day after the ball and everyone was still recuperating. Even the three in the room. Sirena looked at her friend in silence while debating whether to bring up the whole going back to their home thing or not. She knew Chiara wanted to go back after barging into the place, which was great but now the outlander had to think about her options as well as the consequences of her choices. If given the choices now, what would she choose?
“So, with dating the Commander, does this mean you won’t go back with me?” The question that she had been asking herself made her want to get swallowed up by the earth even though it runs through her mind all the time.
“I don’t know. I have been very indecisive on that subject when I ask myself.” Her eyes looked down at the stone floor, feeling slightly ashamed of her answer despite her candor. Her thoughts always went to Cullen and how she would feel guilty if she ever left him to go back to her world. If the young woman never got close to anyone then it would have been easier. Her eyes glanced up at her friend only to see that she looked at her with understanding as well as pity. To get the attention off of her, Sirena made the topic focus on Chiara. “How many people have you told about our situation?”
“I don’t know. Maybe about three or four others.” Her friend admitted which made her eyes widen in shock. Didn’t she know the danger of telling people that sort of thing? It could put them in peril.
“Chiara! That is not a wise thing to do! I get one or two people you trust, but more?” The outlander shook her head in disappointment. “I’ve only told one person. Chi Chi, you got to be less careless. Trusting people too easily could get you hurt.” Glancing over at Cullen, she noticed he hadn’t moved but was listening to their conversation. It was clear he was not going to help.
“I didn’t know it was a big deal since magic is normal here.” The American looked at her friend wanting to give her a comforting hug but knew she shouldn’t at the time. In a way, she felt like her mother, in a way she got lectured as a child.
“Did you not pay attention to history? People tend to find ways to get rid of something they don’t understand. If our information goes to the wrong hands, we could potentially die because of it. Sadly, that is how humanity is.” Not only that, but usually they’d also get experimented on in their world as well.
“Does that mean there are mages where you’re from as well?” Both Sirena and Chiara looked at the man who had just spoken after being quiet for a while. The two glanced at each other. One was fighting off laughter while the other just looked at Cullen, shaking her head.
“No, we don’t have mages. We do have witches, druids, and satanists which are all part of paganism.” Sirena answered with a straight face. It made sense in why he asked since in Thedas there were magic users everywhere. Whereas where she came from, witchcraft was more subtle and not instantaneous therefore one didn’t know who or how many were into paganism.
“Do people from your time believe in the Maker?” In a way she dreaded the question but expected it at the same time. Religion was important in both worlds to some people. Sadly, it made sense to her. There were people out there that needed the strength from somewhere, what was better than faith in a religion?
“Um sort of. Instead of “the Maker” people call the higher being “God”” The more she thought about it, the more similarities Sirena saw in both the modern world and Thedas. There wasn’t a whole lot of differences that she was able to see.
“With the many cultures there are in our world, there are many religions.” Chiara added which Sirena nodded her head to.
When one of the doors was heard opening, everyone immediately ended the conversation. No one else should know about the situation. Soon everyone saw a page enter Cullen’s office. Sirena looked at the guy in green waiting for what he had to say. The only thing the American assumed that it had to do with what happened at the Winter Palace. For all she knew there was two people that needed to go on trial. Of course, she could be wrong as well.
“Everyone is needed in the Great Hall.” The page squeaked as he looked at the Commander. It was very clear that he was intimidated.
“Who sends these summonses?” The Commander asked while crossing his arms.
“The Inquisitor, Commander. It’s for the two trials that are to happen.” It really was happening! Sirena was happy to know she was correct at the same time; dread filled her as she thought about Kiana getting free to torture her more. For the sake of other people, she hoped that girl gets punished.
“We will be on our way.” The courtier bowed to the authoritative man then to the ladies in the room before taking his leave. Everyone had looked at each other. Two were hoping this would be the last that they hear from the stalker while the other just wanted to get the stuff over with. In silence, the trio made their way to the great hall by crossing the stone bridge from Cullen’s office to Solas’s memorial. As soon as the small group entered the room where their presence was required, they saw a lot of people were already there like it was some big event; perhaps it was.
Sirena noticed the Inquisitor was already sitting on her throne when she finally joined the crowd. As discreetly was possible, the outlander moved herself up to the front where the other advisors were usually located. Because of how small she was, it was easy for her to squeeze through the throng of people. Behind her was Cullen, what she didn’t know was her friend was also following. Once she had reached the front, her sight caught Leliana, who looked like she was waiting for someone. As the spymaster caught a glimpse of both the commander and the blonde girl, a look of relief briefly crossed her features. Her eyes looked around and noticed two men bringing up a box. Glancing at the ambassador, she saw her get taken aback.
“The Empress would like you to give judgement on the remains of the Duchess.”
“They want me to judge a box?” Both Sirena and Chiara let out a quiet snort knowing it was a waste of time. Even Evelyn did not look amused in the slightest. “Send the box back to them to be judged, we have more pressing matters to deal with.” After she gave her order, the two men picked up the box and walked out with it. Before Josephine could say anything, Leliana spoke up.
“Next up we have Kiyana for stalking and attempted murder on an Inquisition member while spreading malicious rumors.” The more words that were spoken the more tense Sirena got. Would she really get the justice she needed? The fear of Kiyana being freed made her begin to shake. All the memories she had of the stalking came back quick in flashes causing her to feel her blood boil.
“What defense do you have to say for your actions?”
“My defense?” Kiyana had begun to laugh like she had gone mad which unsettled the blonde American. Her blue-green eyes looked over at her friend fearfully as Chiara did the same to her. The laughter was a hint to something dark about the one on trial. “My defense! That bitch had everything! I was a shadow because of her! People loved talking to her! And here I was, forgotten; even by my own friends! As soon as she got stalked everyone began to hate her and finally saw me.” Her laughter changed into a happy one as she had thought of her success. “Sirena got what she deserved.” Kiyana’s laughter had changed again to that of someone who had gone insane. It got so bad to the point she had to be escorted out before hearing her verdict.
“For those who are remaining, I find the defendant guilty. Because of the situation of what had happened as well for the attempted murder of two women, she shall be executed.” Sirena’s eyes watched the Inquisitor move wondering if she was going to do the deed herself. Those that wanted to watch the first ever execution followed Evelyn out, including herself. Once outside, everyone made their way to the green grass. Everyone but the Inquisitor, advisors, and the victim with the witness. As the woman in charge was taking her sword out of the scabbard, the short American stepped forward but was stopped by Cullen who held her in place.
“I want to do it!” Evelyn looked at Sirena and shook her head. It was a burden she didn’t want the younger to carry.
“This isn’t something you will want to do. If you do, it could change you and there will be no coming back from that.” Cullen whispered into her ear as she struggled against him. For all she had been through, the blonde wanted vengeance. She was owed that much for what she had gone through. But after hearing her boyfriend explain things, she had stopped struggling. Instead, she remained silent as Evelyn raised her ceremony dragon sword then swung it down onto Kiyana’s neck. The sword sliced through skin and bone just before the head fell onto the stone with a “thump” along with the body. Sirena couldn’t believe her eyes. It was a nice clean slice. Her eyes remained on the body that had dark red blood pouring from the neck making it get soaked in the crimson pool. “It’s done; you’re safe now.” Without her noticing at all till after his comforting words, she had begun to notice the tremors in her body. Why did Kiyana have to go that far? There was a way without all the stalking, like, talking things out like adults, but instead, the woman made her choice and paved her path.
While in a trance, she felt someone gently grab her arms. Her legs moved of their own accord as she got led back into the castle. Was she really so weak still that death in front of her turn her off? After everything the girl had seen? It was quite baffling. Before she knew, Sirena was back in her large chambers. There was a pressure which made her sit down on something soft. Finally, there was a shaking motion in her shoulders like someone was pulling her forwards and backwards. At last! Her blue-green eyes looked at the person and saw her best friend, Chiara.
“Finally! You came out of whatever stupor you were in. Are you okay?” Sirena was able to hear the concern in her friend’s voice.
“Yeah, I’m fine. Is it real? Is she really… gone? Am I finally free from the torment?” The questions had finally slipped out. In a way, it was freeing. She was able to breathe again. Would her paranoia stay? Was she really free? It was hard to believe for her since it was happening for so long to the point it was to be expected therefore it became part of her life. She felt Chiara wrap her arms around her in a hug.
“It’s real Sirena. Kiyana is gone and can’t hurt you or anyone anymore. You are free.” With those words the blonde tackle hugged her friend on her bed as tears of relief cascade down her cheeks. Finally, she was free at last! Free! How nice it would be for her to go back on a computer to get a taste of her new found freedom; yet she liked Thedas. In the world she was currently in, she didn’t have to worry about getting on a computer or her PlayStation. Of course, cutting her off cold turkey like an addict for drugs, she got jittery from time to time while having an urge that felt like a need to get back on the internet and games. Though, over time, she got better to where she was currently at.
After a while, someone else had entered the room which caught the American’s attention as she wiped her hand against her cheeks, hiding the evidence of her crying. Once the person saw her condition, she felt another pair of arms around her. Did people care that much about her? It honestly surprised her for she usually tried to hide her emotions. At least she thought she did. Even if she was transparent, there was nothing wrong with it. Sometimes it was better that way anyway. It saved people from a lot of trouble. And sometimes it saves her from having to answer certain questions for all someone had to do was read her face.
“How are you feeling?” The voice surprised her for it didn’t belong to Cullen, but Varric. “I noticed Curly had to hold you back. What were you trying to do? Execute the girl yourself?” Without saying anything, the young outlander nodded her head. “It’s a good thing he stopped you. Doing it yourself would have taken what little innocence you have left. Also, vengeance won’t make you feel better but hollow. You don’t want that kid. You don’t want the hate and anger to consume you.” As she listened to him while being in both people’s arms, Sirena realized that the dwarf was right; it was time to let go. Time to let herself completely relax again. Time to love herself and be happy. Raising her head, she looked at both her friends, Chiara and Varric confidently with a smile.
“You’re right Varric, I don’t need it to consume me. In fact, for once, I feel… like I don’t have to worry anymore.” Her smile for once reached her eyes which made her friend give her a hug.
“Now Blondie, I think you should visit a certain someone who cares about you a lot. He’s been very worried about you after the whole ordeal. The Inquisitor had also left for another place that needed her attention.”
“Okay; I got to admit that I feel bad, she doesn’t get a break, not even a small one. I should go see that man of mine.” As she stood up, the young woman felt pats on her back. For her, it was an emotional time. And not even negative either, just one where she wanted to give her affection to show how much she appreciated them. Without thinking further, Sirena gave the two a hug before setting off to find Cullen. There were a few reasons of why she was grateful to be held back from bloodying her hands further. The first reason was material, she was wearing light clothes. The other reasons were because she did want her innocence back but was satisfied with who she had become. Even more, the American felt lighter which she hadn’t felt since she was a teenager despite the stress graduated caused. Once outside, the accepted outlander took a deep breath of fresh air and made her way to Cullen’s chamber which wasn’t far since she always took the shortcut. Her blue-green eyes looked up at the blue sky filled with white fluffy clouds before entering the office. The American looked around only to see her boyfriend was not in the room. There was a place she could think of on where he'd be. Sirena made her way out through the door on the right. At once she spotted Cullen with a small smile on his face after he gazed up at the sky like she had done earlier. It seemed he knew that she was approaching him for he had turned to face her.
“I wanted to thank you… when you uh came to see me earlier, you know before the whole… If there is anything…” Sirena softly smiled seeing her man become awkward in front of her which she thought was adorable. “This sounded much better in my head.” Sirena couldn’t help but chuckle.
“I know what you’re talking about. Are you feeling any better?” Despite the amusement she had earlier, concern was very much evident.
“I… Yes, I am feeling better.”
“Does it always get that bad?” After everything he has done for her, she wanted to listen to his problems. It was the least she could do for him.
“The pain come and goes. Sometimes I feel as if I am back there.” What did he mean by “back there”? In the tower or Kirkwall? “I should not have pushed myself far that day.” Just how hard did he push himself? When not in a good shape, one shouldn’t push themselves too hard for bad things could happen to the person’s health.
“I’m just glad that you’re alright.”
“I am.” Taking his words as a que, the American approached the man who was older than her and stood next to him. “I’ve never told anyone what truly happened to me at Fereldon’s circle. Though, I’m sure you already know.” She noticed he had given her a pointed look which made her giggle. A sound that she thought she’d never make again due to an ex of hers who constantly giggled. It’d annoyed her so much that she swore she’s never make that sound. Yet, one had slipped out. What was this man doing to her?
“You know… I have short term memory. Perhaps you could remind me?” Sirena batted her eyelashes at him which made him chuckle.
“I’ll indulge you. I was not myself afterward. For years, that anger blinded me. I’m not proud of the man that made me. So, now I’ve put some distance between myself and everything that happened. It’s a start.”
“I hope you know, despite what I do know, I like who you are now.” It was true, she loved the way he was now. If there was a way to show it, she would. Perhaps she might.
“Even after?” The way he sounded so insecure about himself in that moment made her hand move to grip firmly onto his arms. She wanted him to see how serious she was being.
“Cullen, I care about you. What you’ve done in the past does nothing to change that.” As he looked down at her so intensely, a smile slowly grew on his face.
“What about you? How are you holding up?” Sirena felt hands slowly encircle her waist. She smiled at the man before her as she moved closer to him.
“Well for the time being, I am very happy. Though, once I have to take over Evelyn’s responsibilities, I’m terrified. There are so many people who depend on us out there and that dark spawn magister is still out there.”
“We have made great strides together as a whole. Don’t doubt yourself or the Inquisition quite just yet. If there’s anything I can do, you only have to ask.” His forehead moved closer to hers as a way of showing affection.
“You’ve already done enough. You had accepted me despite of where I come from. That, I’m sure was a hard pill to swallow. If you ever have any issues, let me know; I’m here for you.” Her hand rose up and rested against his cheek.
“I will… try to remember that.” His voice lowered before tilting his head to the side and kissed Sirena softly yet firmly. She definitely could tell that tension was rising between them. Of course, she didn’t feel quite comfortable with intimacy yet how long was she going to hold herself back? The American knew she wasn’t giving a whole lot of signs, but to her, he also wasn’t. He was just as shy as she was. If only they could have a date, but knew they were too busy for the time being for it. A girl could always dream.
Author Note:
Hello! For some reason some chapters are getting replicated and I don't catch it immediately. I do apologize.
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