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. |
Sitting at the desk in her chambers, she silently looked over through the documents as she sipped on a cup of tea while smiling to herself. The relief and freedom had hit her really hard to the point of giddiness. Not only was her stalker gone for good and those who helped were punished, but her and Cullen… Sirena knew there was what she would call “hot tension”. At least something within her, wasn’t completely destroyed. In fact, for the first time in a long time, the American felt alive! She thought she’d never get the feeling back but here she was. When the girl with the smile heard sounds of someone approaching her, her eyes flickered up to see Chiara, her best friend.
“So… What happened?” Sirena knew her friend was going to be curious about what went on between herself and her boyfriend. It was only natural since he had wanted her presence according to the dwarf who had practically adopted her as a niece.
“I have no idea what you are talking about.”
“Yeah, okay, like I’m going to believe that. I see that smile of yours, the one that is finally meeting the eyes.”
“Nothing really happened honestly. I mean we talked and had a moment; I think…” In a way the outlander was confused if she may have just conjured up the feeling, she had with him and he with her. Was she just seeing things and being delusional?
“What sort of moment are we talking about?”
“You know how in movies where the two leads have so much tension between them?” Sirena asked as she stood up and walked around the desk to fetch another tea cup while revealing the hanfu she was wearing that day. It was simpler than the ones she has worn previously; fashioning a white under robe with a sea green over robe that had matching flowers sewn into the fabric. Her hair was also in a half up and half down with a pin sticking through it. Once she had the cup, the older American girl walked back over to her desk and set the cup down on the dark wood surface. “Tea?” She offered to her friend who gave her a nod. Without seeing or hearing whether she answered, she poured tea into the cup. “Well, I had a moment like that with Cullen, but I don’t know if he felt the same and knowing my dumbass, I’m too shy to ask him.”
“So, it was an intense yet affectionate moment?” The older outlander nodded her head to Chiara’s question. After she poured some tea into the cup, she watched her friend take a sip. “And nothing happened?” Only shaking her head silently at Chiara only made the other modern girl want to pry more. “You know in most romance films when there is that much tension, the couple usually bump uglies.” As Sirena was taking a sip, she spewed out her drink when she heard what her friend said.
“Really? Bump uglies? You know the terms they use here? Moaning statues, bucking horses; that’s only a couple of them. It just seemed like he was holding himself back.”
“Maybe he wants to wait for the right time when he knows you both are ready.” It was very logical and perhaps she was right; if that’s the case then he really was a gentleman. How lucky she was. While the two young women were having their discussion, the twenty-three-year-old heard another pair of footsteps had entered her chamber which made her look at Chiara with a confused look on her face. Was she supposed to have a visitor? She didn’t think she had scheduled an appointment. As she pondered over her thoughts whether she had forgotten something or not, the person finally had revealed themselves and much to her surprise it was her boyfriend whom they were talking about, Cullen.
“There you are.” To her ear, he sounded relieved that he had found her location. Though, where else would she be? She really had nothing to do but hang out with the companions that were still around.
“Were you looking for me?” It was the first time the commander had come to seek her out. Normally it was the other way around. For her, it was actually nice.
“Yes. I mean, no.” Well… that certainly was baffling to the woman wearing the hanfu. Sirena shared a look with Chiara and they both wore the same expression on their faces.
“Well, um, I guess you can leave my chambers if you want to?” At that point her bewilderment level was so high to the point she was wondering what was going on with her boyfriend.
“No! I’ll stay!” The American glanced over at her friend to see her chuckling under her breath at the way the blonde man was acting. Granted it was unusual since he normally had his Commander mode on. Seeing his awkward side was rather adorable and amusing. “We have some dealings in Fereldon. I was hoping you might accompany me. When you can spare the time, of course.” Was he asking her out on a date? Sirena’s eyes blinked a few times. Had he really asked her out for the first time?
“Is there something wrong?” He did mention there were things he had to do in the country he was from. What was it he had to do there? It made her curious as to what he had planned. Perhaps, it was an excuse to visit where he wanted or needed to go.
“What? No. I would rather explain there; if you wish to go.” Her blue-green gaze met her friend’s again only to see her nodding her head enthusiastically.
“I do believe my schedule is empty today.” Sirena informed Cullen with the corner of her lips tilted up in a smile. As she looked up at the blonde man, she noticed that he was also smiling due to her acceptance. It was nice to see that for the times she was in were sometimes very dangerous.
“I will make the necessary arrangements.” Immediately, the man turned and walked out of the room with confident steps. As soon as both women heard the door shut, they let out excited squeals.
“So… You and him… alone.” Chiara held the “o” in “alone” to tease her friend who was now a blushing mess. Sirena stood up knowing full well she was ready to go that very minute.
“Is this really an invitation to a date from him?” She needed the confirmation. Was it job related or personal matters? After all he did mention Fereldon. What business did he have there?
“I think it was an invitation for a date after his business. Even so, you’re getting alone time which you both need. So, who really cares what motivation is behind it? Even I could tell he had thought about it for a while.” Chiara had brought up some good points to Sirena that made her nod her head in response. Though, once she saw a knowing smile on her friend’s face, she stopped and gave her a “what?” look. “Do you remember which part of the game this is?” The twenty-three-year-old had thought about the progression only for her eyes to widen. Was it really that far already?
“But it’s different from the game. When we play the game, we go visit Cullen; but he came here.”
“That’s because it is no longer a game. Everyone is real now, making their own choices. He is making his.” What her friend said made complete sense yet the way he talked was the same or maybe it had changed a bit without her realizing it. “Anyway, you should get going. You don’t want to make him wait too long.”
“You’re right, I should get going.” Normally she’d want to grab her purse before heading out, but the young woman didn’t have to worry about that accessory anymore. It’s nice to have for her world, but not the one she was currently in. Sirena walked over towards her friend and gave her a hug. “I’ll tell you what happened when I get back.”
“You better.” With a smile on her face, she nodded at her friend while giving her upper arm a gentle squeeze before leaving her chambers. At this point Sirena was so excited that she couldn’t stop herself from running. Before she even knew it, the American was racing through the Great Hall. The stares she felt people giving her were not unfriendly, just filled with surprise. If she were them, the girl would give a look of disdain due to how crazy they’d look for running the way she was so, she couldn’t blame them. In no time, the blonde who thought herself average, was outside in the crisp spring air. The outlander had to force herself to slow her steps so she didn’t look over eager. While descending down the stone steps to get to the gate, she evened out her breathing to the best of her ability which didn’t take a whole lot of effort since she had gained more stamina while she was in Thedas. Once Sirena walked to where she needed to go, she saw Cullen holding both of their horses’ reins. With quick steps, the outlander approached him while grasping her steed’s reins and brushed her hand against the commander’s.
“Ready to go?” The way he asked sounded soft yet excited at the same time. Moving to the side of her horse, she mounted and turned towards the gates, showing that she was indeed ready to leave the keep. Once her eyes caught sight of his horse moving, the American clicked with her tongue which signaled her horse to move along with his. Knowing full well where the first destination was, Ferelden. Of course, she knew where that was because of Origins which was full of darkspawn. Though, this was going to be her first time actually going there physically. Would it be like it was in the games?
After arriving in Denerim, her blue-green eyes were wide as she looked everywhere. It was exciting to be in the large city. Obviously, she kept herself from running in different directions and getting lost even if she knew where stores were located, but things change over the years. And the only time a player gets to visit Denerim was in the first game so she had no idea what changes were made. So instead, she remained next to Cullen, walking to the castle. As they walked in the direction, Sirena was able to hear “dwarven crafts! Buy some dwarven crafts!” in the distance. For her, it was the sound of nostalgia. As she had begun to drift, she felt the blonde man’s hand grab hers to steer her in the correct direction.
“Have you seen this place yet.” Her eyes glanced up at him before giving him a nod.
“In the first game. It was basically a showdown between Loghain and the Grey Wardens. I do believe Loghain was executed for his crimes.” The American noticed Cullen nodding his head, most likely because he heard it from his higher up at the time.
“What were his crimes?” Was he asking to quiz her? Or was he actually curious to know himself? Though, if he hadn’t heard anything maybe it was good if he knew about his country’s history. But, of course, they made no secret about the affair.
“His crimes were betraying the Grey Wardens, traitor to his country, and death of King Cailin.” Sirena was honestly quite proud of herself for remembering all of that information when she hadn’t played the earlier games for a while. To be fair, as soon as she got the PlayStation four, she stopped playing on the PlayStation three.
“You certainly do know a lot.” Once they were outside the gate, Cullen stopped her from walking further which befuddled her greatly. “Do you by any chance know where the Hero of Fereldon went?” She knew that topic was a concern and sadly, one she did not have an answer for him.
“Honestly, no one knows. There are theories of course, but that’s it. She just up and disappeared.” Sirena watched as Cullen’s brow furrowed in thought.
“It’s best we don’t say anything about this unless he brings it up.” When he said “he” she grew curious. Who was she going to meet? Or was he going to leave her outside? In a way she’d be sad if that were to happen, for why would he take her to a castle if she couldn’t go in? To her great surprise, the commander motioned for her to go forward. Immediately, the American began climbing up the stairs to the castle made of stone. Since it was her first time being there, she gawked a little. Once she entered the massive building, she saw portraits hanging as well as decorative pieces against the walls. Soon, she found herself in a large room and two chairs that looked like thrones. Her eyes looked at the surroundings to see tapestries hanging on the walls like they did at Skyhold. There were also quite a few people mingling around which to her conclusion must be the nobles in Fereldon. As she began to lag behind, Sirena felt Cullen grab her arm gently and led her over to the thrones. One was occupied by a man with blonde hair and the other was empty which did not surprise her at all. In her peripheral, she saw her boyfriend bow which she had never seen him do before, but it was also a hint to her. For the second time in her life, she dropped down into a graceful curtsy that made her look like she could have been a noble woman her whole life.
“Commander Cullen, it’s good to see you again after an incident somewhere.” Her eyes took a glimpse of the man and sort of recognized him as King Alistair.
“It’s good to see you as well, Your Majesty.” As she stood there silently, her knees were beginning to shake for being in the uncomfortable position when she noticed his eyes had landed on her.
“I see you brought a lady friend.” Her knees were starting to burn over time as she had waited for permission to stand back up. “Oh! Where are my manners? Stand up. That really must have been uncomfortable.” With relief, the outlander stood back up. “Anyway, shall we take a walk? It is dreadfully boring in here.” Both Cullen and Sirena glanced at each other as the King got up before they followed him through the halls. In silence, they were led to his chambers where people could seek private audience with the King. Alistair shut the door behind the two before turning to them. “I’m sure this wasn’t just a social call; what’s the reason?” That was the thing she wanted to know herself, so she listened with quiet interest.
“The Inquisition wanted to make sure we had your support; for eventually, we may need more warriors when the time comes.” Her brows furrowed wondering why that couldn’t be sent by a raven. That’d have been easier, surely. Perhaps he wanted to see Alistair’s reaction; that’d make sense to her.
“Wow! You sure just get straight to the point. Is he like this at Skyhold too?” Her eyes widened slightly not expecting him to acknowledge her, let alone whisper in her ear. Due to getting caught unaware, she ended up speechless. “That’s a first time I got that sort of reaction from anyone unless they were appalled by something. What is your name, my lady?” She couldn’t help but glance at Cullen to see what he thought when she saw him give her a nod.
“I’m Sirena, Your Majesty. Sirena Laurelette.” Quickly, the American dropped down into another curtsy and stood back up. Once she was back up, both the commander and the outlander grew surprised when the man who was closer to her age took her hand and kissed the back of it.
“It is lovely to meet you, Sirena.” Her blue-green eyes glimpsed at his quickly not before seeing how closely he was watching her. It was rather unnerving for her. Was she supposed to pull her hand away? “Where did you find this young woman, Cullen?” When he finally let her hand go, she let out a silent sight of relief.
“She found us actually.” From the Commander’s tone, he didn’t sound too thrilled with what the King was doing.
“Interesting… Ah! Where are my manners? I’m Alister Therin, King of Fereldon.” The movement beside her had caught her attention when she saw the man bow to her. He certainly had changed, like he has gotten used to his role while still being humble.
“If you don’t mind me asking, Your Majesty… But where is your wife?” Sirena’s eyes looked over at Cullen as she shook her head subtly. He had told her not to bring up the Hero of Fereldon, yet he just did himself.
“We are presuming that she is dead. No one has seen her since she was getting Grey Warden recruits.” That for sure was not a lie for she hadn’t heard anything about the woman since the first game. But why would her boyfriend bring up the sore topic?
“I am terribly sorry to hear that, Your Majesty. Back to what we were talking about before…” It was clear Alistair did not want to get straight to business, but the commander would not let it slide. From her observation, he seemed rather annoyed.
“You should learn to stop and smell the roses Commander, plus I’m sure the Lady Sirena here would like some refreshments.” The King then walked over to the door and talked to someone in hushed tones which made it impossible for her to hear. While Alistair was busy, she moved her hands to get Cullen’s attention. Once his eyes moved to look at her, she mouthed “are you okay?”. He motioned with his hands that he will talk about it later. The host then shut the door again before moving to the seat across from her. “How old are you dear, Lady Laurelette?” Why was it every time the man asked her something, it surprises her? Perhaps it was because he was a king who was acknowledging her.
“I’m twenty-three, Your Majesty.” When would the man get back to business like Cullen wants? It was rather childish in her opinion. Though, he could just be lonely and wanted someone to talk to. It must not be easy being in his shoes.
“You’re rather young.” Immediately, her brows shot up from getting offended as she looked at Alistair.
“Have you ever licked a lamp post in the winter?” A little smirk had crossed her features as she continued to look at him without waver which would make her seem bold.
“I actually have once. It’s not fun getting your tongue stuck. Though, why does that sound so familiar?” The American heard him question. Of course, she was going to let him think about it. For now, she was the one with the wit.
“You know… for someone as young as myself, I can’t say I have done that for I already knew that could happen. It’s science. Who looks the fool now?” That was something she couldn’t help, her competitive side making its appearance. Seeing things as challenges. As her eyes glanced up at Cullen, she noticed him looking at her with his eyes wide. When she thought about what she had said, a hand slapped over her mouth.
“Well, you are cheeky.” Her face was burning in shame by this point. “I like it! I don’t get to see it much anymore. It’s nice.” Sirena automatically turned her gaze to look at Cullen who met her eyes. Who would have thought he liked a little banter? Soon, there was a knock on the door which their host stood back up and made his way to the door. Cullen took this opportunity and moved beside her before leaning down to whisper in her ear.
“You need to be careful. You’re lucky he didn’t get offended for that could have been a trip to the dungeon.”
“I know, I’m sorry! It just slipped out!” The outlander whispered back as her hands trembled a bit from what could have happened. “It’s just that, he was close to my age when the blight happened and when he became King. I got a little offended.” Her attention was turned to the Commander and saw him pinch the bridge of her nose. “I will try to curb my temper.”
“Please do. I don’t want you to get taken as prisoner, but at this point I don’t think that will happen for I believe he has taken a liking to you.” There was her answer, he sounded a little jealous.
“I’ll be more careful.” Sirena felt her shoulder get squeezed before he moved away from her. Alistair then came back with some food and three glasses filled with wine. The King grabbed two wine glasses and passed one to her boyfriend and herself before grabbing one for himself.
“Eat to your heart’s content. You traveled all this way from Skyhold. I can’t let you two go out hungry.” With hesitation, the American grabbed a piece of bread as Cullen made his way to the table. “You should try the bread with this. When I first tried it, I nearly died.” Alistair then put some orange spread on her bread. Discreetly, she looked at Cullen to see him glaring. That was not good.
“Uh… Thank you, Your Majesty.” She then took a little nibble and for some reason the taste reminded her of the sauces that Burger King carried for the chicken nuggets. It was the first tine awhile when she felt home sick. “It tastes sweet and spicy; a perfect blend.” Sirena gave her honest opinion before taking another bite.
“That’s what I thought!” A sound of someone clearing their throat was heard causing the young woman to look at Cullen who was brimming with impatience. A sigh had come from her side where Alistair was sitting. “Alright, to answer your question about the troops; when the time comes and if they are needed, I will send some men to help. The enemy is after my late wife’s and her recruits’ faults so, I’ll take some responsibility.” Quickly, Sirena downed her drink just so it wouldn’t go to waste.
“Thank you, Your Majesty. I will tell the Inquisitor immediately.” Taking that as her que, the outlander stood up. Before she was able to step away, she felt a hand grabbed hers which made her turn her head to see that it was Alistair’s hand holding hers.
“It was nice meeting you, Lady Sirena.” He again kissed her hand before letting her go. As a proper good-bye, the young woman dropped down into a quick curtsy. She then made her way over to Cullen and left the room not even knowing a pair of eyes had never left her. The American girl followed the commander through the halls to the main doors which prevented her from getting lost. Together, the couple exited the place. Once they were out of the castle, they walked over to the gate while listening to the hustle and bustle of life in Denerim. Though, there was silence between them often, this time it seemed a bit odd. She didn’t want to press the issue until he brought it up himself.
The two were soon on their horses and trotted away from the main city in Fereldon. It was a silent ride at first and sort of uncomfortable for the young American. She wondered what was going through her commander’s mind for he hadn’t said anything since they had left King Alistair’s chamber. Did she do anything wrong? All she knew was the behavior started with the King. Her eyes peered over at Cullen only to see him focusing on the road ahead with no smile. Finally, Sirena let out a sigh before diving into whatever was bothering her boyfriend.
“Would you like to talk about it now?”
“Hm?” Cullen hummed while slowly turning his head to look at her before facing forward again. “Talk about what exactly?”
“Talk about what happened back in Denerim. After meeting up with King Alistair seemed to change your mood and don’t act like it hasn’t.”
“He irritates me sometimes.” The outlander knew there was more to it than that. She patiently waited till he said more. “I didn’t like how he was treating you. It was over friendly. The way he was acting… it seemed like he was looking for another wife already and his sight was on you.” The American girl wanted to laugh but knew it wasn’t the right time. She wasn’t seeing what he was. But, in the past, she has been told that she was naïve.
“I don’t think that was how he was seeing me. I believe he was just trying to be a good host.” Though, why all the hand kissing? It made her feel a bit awkward.
“Sirena, I know and understand you come from a different time, but please, don’t be so trusting. I’m sure you know how this time period is like.” The twenty-three-year-old nodded her head agreeing to the fact that she did indeed know what the time period was like. “If anything happens, please let me know.” With a smile, Sirena nodded her head.
In no time, the American followed Cullen to what looked like a lake surrounded by trees and grass. The place was very foggy. The blonde young woman dismounted off her horse and took a look at the lake where she saw a little dock. She was confused in the location she was at. Her eyes glanced over at the blonde man to see him motioning to follow him.
“Um, where are we?” The outlander finally asked her boyfriend.
“You have a lot of stress and responsibility. I wanted to take you away from that. If only for a moment. I grew up not far from here. This place was always quiet.” She watched as he leaned against a post in leisure.
“Were you here a lot then?” This was another opportunity to learn more about the ex-blonde Templar whom she was dating. Of course, the young woman was going to take it without a doubt.
“I loved my siblings, but they were very loud. I would come here to clear my head. Of course, they always found me eventually.”
“You were happy here.”
“I was. I still am.”
“And to top it, you, the workaholic is actually taking a break! Wow! How much those messages and war reports must miss you!” The sarcasm was very much thick in her words as she smiled in amusement.
“I should be able to last a day. Besides, I told Leliana to send word if- “His gaze looked out at the water.
“Cullen! You, me, alone. It’s a pretty lake.” Her cheeks turned pink as she looked at him.
“Right! Of course! The last time I was here was the day I left for Templar training. My brother gave me this.” He held his gloved hand out where a coin was sitting on his palm.” It was just happened to be in his pocket, but he said it was for luck. Templars are not supposed to carry such things. Our faith should see us through.”
“A little luck can’t hurt every now and then.” Luck was definitely better since it also worked hand in hand with faith at least from her understanding it did. Though, he wasn’t very fortunate; his life could have been a lot worse.
“I suppose not. I should have died during the blight! Or Kirkwall, Or Haven; take your pick. And yet I made it back here.” He stepped towards her while holding the coin out to her. “Humor me.” His hand took hers, placing his lucky coin in her hand. “We don’t know what you’ll face before the end. This can’t hurt.” Sirena took that as a hint towards the things he knew she’s been through.
“Thank you!” The blonde girl was speechless with emotion for a few seconds. “I will keep it safe for you.”
“Good.” Her ears caught the lower octave of his voice. Her eyes watched as he stepped even closer to her. “I know it’s foolish but, I’m glad.” Like a piece of metal getting pulled by a magnet, the young outlander moved towards the man in front of her; slipping into his arms. Her head tilted back just as his lips pressed against hers. She slid her hands up his arms till they were resting at the back of his neck. There was heat against her hips that made its way to her lower back that could only be his gentle yet firm hands.
It was the first time really for them being able to be together. There was no way she was going to waste the moment with her man in her arms. Her hands slipped into his blonde locks as she pressed herself against his body. There was little to no space between the two. It was like all their inhibition went away as she felt his tongue glide over her lower lip; in which she knew was a silent way of saying he wanted access which she gladly submitted to as both their breaths grew more ragged. Before she knew it, Cullen had pulled away as she had begun to feel heat run through her. Noticing he had stepped away back, she looked up at him. “We should, uh… head back.”
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