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Chapter Text

The air was still, charged with something unspoken as Thalia stood before him, bare skinned. The flicker of candlelight and the moonlight shining in from the window casting soft shadows across her skin, the glow accentuating every curve, every scar, every freckle and line that Solas had come to know as intimately as he knew the Fade. His hands hovered over her body, reverent, as if unsure whether he was worthy to touch her.

Solas knelt before her, as she stood by the foot of the bed, his eyes tracing the delicate red tattoos marking her face and body, the subtle rise and fall of her chest as she breathed. She was a living contradiction, so fragile in appearance yet strong enough to command the world before her. His fingers ghosted over her skin, not quite touching, but close enough for her to feel the warmth radiating from them. It was deliberate, torturous in the way only Solas could be, drawing every ounce of tension from her body with his unspoken adoration.

"You are so beautiful," he whispered, his voice thick with a raw, reverent tone. Thalia's breath hitched at the intensity in his gaze. His eyes traveled slowly from her neck down to her collarbone, lingering on her chest and breasts. There was nothing hurried in his movements, only an unrelenting, aching patience.

"Say it again," she murmured, her voice soft, but commanding.

He obliged. "You are Beautiful. Perfect."

“Again.” She commanded him again

"You are beautiful. Perfect." His voice carried more conviction now, a reverence that bordered on worship. His words were no longer just praise-they were a confession, spoken like an oath sworn beneath the stars.

Thalia hummed in approval, a soft, satisfied sound escaping her lips as she smiled down at him. The power she held in that moment was palpable, and she reveled in it.
"Good," she said, her voice low, controlled. With a wave of her fingers, she gave him permission to rise.

Solas obeyed without hesitation, unfolding himself gracefully as he stood before her.
His eyes never left her face, even as he towered over her, his taller frame casting a shadow against the flickering candlelight. But even with the height difference, it was Thalia who held the power, her smirk cutting through the air like a blade. She pierced him with her gaze, her eyes gleaming with dominance and desire.

His hands, trembling with restraint, hovered over her once again, so close yet not touching. He let them float near her skin, from her face to her neck, down to her shoulders, trailing heat in their wake. They moved slowly, almost reverently, until he reached her upper arms, where he lingered. He could feel her heartbeat in the space between them, the tension thick in the air.

"May I?" Solas asked, his voice soft, but laced with need.

Thalia smirked, the barest hint of a nod granting him permission. His hands finally made contact with her skin, his fingers tracing the contours of her body with the delicacy of someone handling something precious. His touch was light at first, almost hesitant, but as his confidence grew, his fingers pressed more firmly, tracing the lines of her arms, the dips of her waist.

When his hands came to rest on her hips, he let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding. "You are the strongest person I have ever met," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.

Thalia chuckled, the sound rich with amusement. "Stronger than you?" she teased.
A flicker of something-perhaps admiration, perhaps awe-passed through Solas's eyes. "Yes."

She let the moment stretch out, then laid her hands over his, her fingers cool against the warmth of his skin. Slowly, deliberately, she guided his hands away from her body, a silent command to relinquish control. "Let go," she said softly, and he obeyed without question.

"Stay here," she commanded, stepping back slightly. "Don't move. Don't touch. Just watch."

Solas swallowed hard, his throat tight with desire. He watched as Thalia moved to the bed, the grace in her movements unmistakable. She sat on the edge first, then turned, crawling slowly toward the center. Each motion was deliberate, teasing, her body shifting and stretching with such grace. She settled into the pillows, her legs spreading as she leaned back, one hand trailing over her own skin.

His eyes darkened, the hunger in them undeniable. Every part of him ached to close the distance between them, to touch her, to worship her as she deserved. But he remained rooted to the spot, his chest rising and falling with the effort it took to restrain himself.

Thalia's hand moved slowly over her own body, her fingers grazing her thighs, her stomach, her breasts, each movement deliberate, slow. She was a vision of power and control, and he was nothing but a willing observer, bound by her command.
Solas's breath hitched, his gaze devouring every inch of her. "You want to touch," Thalia said, her voice smooth, almost a purr.

He could only nod, unable to find his voice, his throat dry as he watched her.

"Good," she murmured, her eyes locking onto his, filled with an intensity that set him on fire. "Now, just look at me, Solas. Watch me."

Chapter Text

The warm bathwater wrapped gently against their bodies, the soft candlelight flickering in the private bathroom of Thalia’s chambers. The room smelled of lavender and roses, calming and soothing. The large mirror on the wall reflected everything-the intimate closeness of their bodies submerged in the water, the way their skin gleamed in the dim light.

Thalia sat upright with her back against Solas, his legs wrapped securely around her, grounding her in the moment. His hands were gentle but firm as he held a folded cloth, rubbing it slowly against her back. And the other on her waist, holding her still. Each movement was filled with quiet determination, as though he was intent on washing away not just the grime of the day, but the weight of the battles she had fought and the tension that clung to her muscles.

She looked into the mirror, her eyes locking onto his reflection. His expression was calm, focused, but there was an unmistakable softness there—a tenderness that made her heart flutter. The steady rhythm of his hands, his breath warm against the back of her neck, soothed her in a way words never could. A soft, pleasurable hum escaped her lips, and she leaned back into his touch, her body instinctively seeking more of the comfort he offered.

Solas glanced up, catching her gaze in the mirror. His lips quirked into a small smile, his eyes filled with quiet affection. "Does it feel good?" he asked, his voice low and intimate, a question meant only for her.

Thalia smiled softly, the warmth of his touch easing her further into relaxation. "It does," she replied, her eyes never leaving his in the reflection.

Solas's smile widened, a glint of satisfaction in his gaze. He leaned closer to her, his breath brushing against her ear. "Lean back against me," he murmured.

Thalia complied, but not without a playful touch. She shifted her body slowly, sliding up against his chest in a teasing manner and moved her ass up against his crotch. The heat between them intensified as her movements sent subtle ripples through the water. Solas hummed with pleasure at the contact, his eyes fluttering closed for a moment as he savored the way her body fit perfectly against his.

Once she settled, Solas leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss to her shoulder, the warmth of his lips sending a shiver down her spine. His kisses trailed slowly, deliberately, up the side of her neck, each one lingering just long enough to ignite the spark of desire growing between them.

His hands moved around her, still holding the washcloth in one, while the other came to rest on her stomach, grounding her. He stopped kissing her just long enough to begin washing her chest and shoulders, his movements slow, reverent, the cloth gliding across her skin with careful attention. His touch was steady, as if memorizing every curve of her body, every line that made her unique.

Thalia's breath hitched, her eyes closing as she let herself melt into the sensation.

The warmth of the bath, the rhythm of his hands, and the intimacy of the moment washed over her. Her mind drifted, lost in the pleasure of his touch, but something made her open her eyes again. She looked into the mirror, her reflection meeting his once more.

There was something powerful about the sight-the way he held her, the way his hands worshipped her body with such care. It was more than just touch; it was devotion. The connection between them was palpable, mirrored in every movement, every shared glance.

As Solas continued to wash her chest, his lips returned to her neck, kissing the sensitive skin just beneath her ear. A soft moan escaped Thalia's lips, her body arching slightly into his touch as the cloth moved across her breasts, each stroke sending a pulse of pleasure through her.

Solas's hand that had been resting on her stomach, began to drift upward. Slowly, deliberately, it trailed up her body, between her breasts, his fingers grazing her skin until they reached her neck. His touch was gentle, yet possessive, his hand wrapping around her throat with just enough pressure to remind her of his presence, of the control he held.

His lips moved from soft kisses to light bites, his teeth grazing her skin as he worked his way down her neck, biting down just enough to send another wave of heat coursing through her. Thalia's moans deepened, her eyes fluttering closed again as she surrendered completely to the sensation, to the pleasure of his touch, his kisses.

But even as her eyes closed, she opened them again, drawn once more to the reflection in the mirror. There, she saw herself-her body leaning into Solas's, his arms wrapped around her, his hand gently holding her neck, his lips claiming her skin. The sight sent a thrill through her, an undeniable rush of desire that made her crave more of him, more of this moment.

Solas's breath was hot against her ear as he whispered, "Do you like seeing yourself like this?" His voice was a hushed, intimate question, one that only deepened the connection between them.
Thalia's eyes met his in the reflection, her breath quickening as her lips parted to answer. "Yes," she whispered, her voice barely audible above the sound of the water.

"I do."

Solas smiled against her neck, his hand tightening slightly on her throat as his lips continued their assault, each kiss and bite stoking the fire that burned between them. His other hand moved more firmly across her chest, the cloth forgotten now and sinking into the bottom of the tub as he let his touch explore her breasts freely.

Thalia's moans filled the room, her body arching into his hands, into the pleasure he gave her. And through it all, she watched them in the mirror-the way their bodies moved together, the way his touch made her feel alive, powerful, cherished.

Solas's hand remained fondling around her breast, and Thalia's own hand joined him, her fingers brushing over his as she let out a soft, breathless moan. She could feel him hardening against her back, the heat of his excitement unmistakable, even through the warm water. A wicked smile played on her lips as her free hand began to slip beneath the surface of the water, fingers trailing slowly down her stomach, heading for the heat between her thighs.

But before she could indulge in the pleasure of her own touch, Solas's hand left her breast, moving swiftly under the water to intercept her. His fingers wrapped around her wrist, halting her movements with a firm but gentle grip. He leaned closer, his breath hot against her ear as he whispered, "Did I give you permission to touch yourself, vhenan?"

A chuckle escaped her, her eyes flashing with mischief as she met his gaze in the mirror. "And since when do I need your permission?" she teased, her voice sultry and full of defiance.

Solas's lips curled into a smile, though it was dark, almost predatory. He bit down on her ear, making her gasp, his teeth grazing her skin as his grip on her neck tightened slightly. "You do," he growled softly, his voice low and commanding. "I haven't finished washing you, and I won't have you getting dirty again so soon."

Thalia's laughter bubbled up from her throat, rich and teasing. "Then it's a good thing we're still in the tub," she quipped, her tone light but filled with challenge.

"That way, we can wash off the ‘filth’ as soon as it appears."

Solas let out a low, amused hum at her words, loosening his grip just enough to guide her. His hands moved to her waist, gently turning her around until she was facing him, her legs wrapping instinctively around his waist as she settled onto his lap. The friction of their bodies pressed together under the water sent a spark of pleasure coursing through her, and she couldn't resist rolling her hips against him, eliciting a low growl from his throat.

His hands trailed up her body again, one settling around her neck with a firm but steady grip, the other gripping her ass, squeezing it with possessive intent. "Do you want to undo all the work l've done to get you clean, vhenan?" he asked, his voice dark and teasing, his gaze locked on hers.

Thalia's lips curled into a seductive smile as she pressed herself closer, the sensation of their bodies rubbing together in the water making her ache with desire.

"I enjoy getting washed by you," she purred, her hips moving with deliberate slowness, grinding against him, "so I wouldn't mind a second round."

Solas growled again, the sound deep and rough, the tension in his body evident as he tightened his grip on her ass. Her movements sent waves of heat through him, and she could feel how close he was to losing control. "If you enjoy it so much," he said, his voice dropping to a low, dangerous whisper, "then show me how dirty you're willing to get."

His words sent a thrill through her, and she responded by grinding her hips harder against him, seeking more friction, more heat. Her lips parted in a soft moan as their bodies moved in sync, the water sloshing around them, creating a rhythm that was as intoxicating as the heat building between them.

Solas's grip on her neck tightened slightly as he leaned in, his lips brushing against hers in a teasing almost-kiss. "You drive me mad, Thalia," he murmured, his voice rough with desire. His hand on her ass pulled her even closer, their bodies pressed so tightly together that it was almost painful-but the pain only heightened the pleasure.

Thalia's breath came in shallow gasps as she ground against him, her fingers curling into his shoulders as she moved with purpose. The heat between them was overwhelming, and she relished in the control she had over him, in the way his body responded to hers with such intensity.

She leaned in, her lips finally meeting his in a deep, hungry kiss, her teeth grazing his lower lip as she pulled back just enough to whisper against his mouth, "I'm willing to get as dirty as it takes to make you lose control."

Solas's growl of approval reverberated through his chest, and his hands gripped her harder, pulling her into him with such force that the water sloshed over the edge of the tub. "Then don't hold back, vhenan," he whispered, his voice rough and commanding. "Show me."

Chapter Text

The room was thick with tension, the air between them crackling as if charged with magic. Thalia and Solas stood across from each other, their brows furrowed, anger flashing in their eyes. Their chests heaved with the weight of their argument, the heat of their words still lingering in the space between them.

"You made the wrong choice," Solas growled, his voice low but seething with frustration. He stood by the unlit hearth, his hands clenched into fists at his sides.
"You should not have made the mage Tranquil. There were other options."

Thalia, standing at the foot of the bed with her back to it, glared at him, her hands balled into fists as well. Her voice was sharp, cutting through the silence. "And what would you have me do, Solas? Let a mage who slaughtered an entire town roam free? Risk more lives? It was the best judgment I could give."

Her words hit him like a blow, and the fire in his eyes flared. He took a step closer to her, his expression darkening. "I would have made a different judgment," he hissed.

Thalia's eyes narrowed, and a bitter laugh escaped her lips. "A different judgment?
What—like letting them go? Let them put people at risk by letting them be free? Maybe I should start with you then," she spat, her voice laced with venom. "You're a mage too, and a brilliant one, but a dangerous one just like they were. Perhaps you're next in line for a similar fate if you keep questioning my choices."

Solas's expression hardened at the threat, and in an instant, he closed the distance between them, his tall frame towering over her. His voice dropped to a low, dangerous whisper as he leaned in, his breath hot against her ear. "Careful Vhenan, You have no idea what I'm capable of."

Thalia didn't back down. She kept her gaze locked onto his, her eyes fierce and unyielding. "Maybe I do," she shot back, her voice low and challenging.

The tension between them exploded like a firestorm. Solas's hands shot out, grabbing her roughly, pulling her body against his as he shoved her back into the bedpost. The force of the impact knocked the breath from her lungs, but she didn't resist. His hand gripped her face, his fingers digging into her skin as his other hand pinned her against the post, his body pressing into hers with an intensity that made her gasp.

And then he kissed her- hard, desperate, angry. It was a kiss born out of frustration, a collision of mouths that was more bite than kiss. Thalia bit back just as fiercely, her teeth grazing his lower lip, drawing a low groan from his throat. Their kiss was all-consuming, violent in its intensity, both of them pouring their anger into it, as if the act itself could settle the storm brewing between them.

Their bodies moved instinctively, grinding against each other as they kissed, the friction of their clothes only heightening the tension. Thalia could feel Solas's hardness pressing against her hip, the evidence of his desire undeniable. She smirked against his mouth, her hips shifting to give him more friction, more of the maddening pressure that she knew would push him closer to the edge.

Solas broke the kiss with a deep, ragged breath, his eyes dark and wild. Thalia smiled wickedly, her voice dripping with defiance. "Maybe you should be careful, Solas. You're getting a little too excited for someone who could meet the same fate as today's judgment."

Her words stoked the flames of his anger, but he allowed it, indulging her, letting her feel in control. His hands didn't leave her, and neither did his desire. He let her grind against him, feeling the friction between their clothes, the heat rising between them, his body responding to every teasing shift of her hips. She thought she had him, that she was the one in power, and for a moment, he let her believe it.

But only for a moment.

After a torturous minute of her teasing, Solas's hand shot up, grabbing her wrists and pinning them against the post above her head. Thalia let out a soft gasp, her eyes blazing with a mix of anger and desire. She stared at him, her expression hungry, challenging, but she was trapped now-held in place by his strength and his will.

His eyes never left hers as he loosened the belt of her breeches with his free hand, his movements aggressive, purposeful. He didn't bother with delicacy as he slid his hand beneath the fabric, fingers finding the heat between her legs, already soaked from the tense kiss. Thalia moaned loudly as his fingers curved into her, moving with an intensity that made her head spin. The pleasure was immediate, raw, and she writhed against him, her body trembling from the force of his touch.

Solas silenced her moan with another rough kiss, his mouth crashing against hers as his fingers worked her relentlessly, pushing her closer to the edge. She could barely move, pinned beneath him, her wrists held tightly above her head, her body shaking with each thrust of his fingers. He didn't let up, didn't give her room to breathe, to think. It was overwhelming, consuming.

And she loved it.

Thalia's head fell back against the bedpost, her lips parted as she gasped for air, her body on fire from the relentless assault of his hand. Solas finally pulled his finger out from her. Placed his fingers into his mouth and sucked on her wet that had covered his fingers. After he had licked his finger clean, he yanking her breeches down to her knees, exposing her to him completely. His eyes darkened as he took her in, still holding her hands pinned above her head, still in control.

With his free hand, he unbuckled his own belt, managing to free himself while keeping her pinned in place. He pulled his belt and wrapped it around her wrists, securing them to the bedpost. Thalia's breath hitched as she realized what he was doing, but there was no time to protest, no time to stop him.

Once she was bound, Solas wasted no time. He lifted her up, his hands rough as he positioned her, her legs wrapping instinctively around his waist as he pressed her back against the post. And then, with one swift motion, he pressed his cock into her, filling her completely. Thalia let out a loud, ragged moan, her body arching against his as he began to move.

Solas didn't hold back, his thrusts aggressive, punishing, as he took what he wanted. Thalia's breathed in shallow gasps as she surrendered to the raw, primal pleasure of the moment. Bound and helpless, she had no choice but to take it, and the thought thrilled her as much as it drove her wild with need.

His grip tightened on her ass as he thrust into her harder, faster, the sound of their bodies colliding filling the room. The tension between them was still there, still simmering beneath the surface, but now it was fuel for the fire, driving them both to the brink of madness. Thalia's moans grew louder, her body shaking as she neared the edge, and Solas growled in her ear, his voice thick with desire.

"I have a lot more power than you think, Vhenan," he whispered, his breath hot against her skin as he drove into her again and again.

Solas's pace was relentless, each thrust driving deeper into her, his lips finding her neck where he bit down, sending shivers of pleasure through her body. Thalia's breaths came in ragged gasps, her body coiled tightly, ready to unravel at any moment. She was on the edge, the pressure building inside her until she couldn't hold it in any longer.

"Solas," she whimpered, her voice breathless as she leaned into his ear, "I'm going to-"

But before she could finish, he stopped. He pulled himself out of her, leaving her gasping, desperate. Solas set her back down, her body still trembling, her legs weak as she stood against the bedpost. Her hands bound, tied securely to the post. She tugged against the restraints, but there was no escape. The knot held fast, denying her any release.

Her body ached, her mind swimming in frustration as she writhed, her hips moving instinctively, trying to find some sort of satisfaction. But it was no use. She was at his mercy.

"Solas," she begged, her voice trembling with need. "Please."

But Solas only stepped back, his gaze fixed on her, his lips curling into a wicked smile. He bit down on his lip, savoring the sight of her, the way her body strained against the bonds, the desperation in her voice.

"Who has the power here, vhenan?" he asked, his voice low, devious.

Thalia's resolve cracked. She was too far gone, too close to the edge, and he was the only one who could tip her over. "You," she admitted, her voice barely more than a breath. "You have the power."

Solas's eyes gleamed with satisfaction. "Good," he murmured, his tone dark and commanding.

He moved back to her with purpose, his hands grabbing her hips as he twisted her around, forcing her to face the bedpost. Her front was now pressed against the wood, her hands still bound above her head, while her ass was exposed to him. Her body trembled in anticipation, her breath coming in quick gasps as she felt his hands move over her skin.

Her hands twisted in the restraints, but not uncomfortably. She couldn't see him, but she felt his presence, his heat, as he positioned himself behind her. His hand sliding down her back before gripping her ass firmly, spreading her open. His other hand tangled in her hair, pulling her head back just enough to make her gasp again, a mixture of pleasure and pain shooting through her. A moment later, she felt him press against her once more, his cock sliding into her with a rough, urgent thrust. The sensation was overwhelming, and she cried out, her body arching against the bedpost as he filled her completely.

Without warning, Solas' hand came down hard on her ass, the sharp sting of the slap sending a jolt of pleasure through her. She moaned, her body responding to the mix of pain and pleasure as he thrust into her again, his pace punishing and deliberate. Each slap was perfectly timed, driving her closer and closer to the edge, pushing her beyond the point of reason.

"Is this what you wanted?" Solas growled, his voice thick with lust as he drove into her harder. His grip on her ass tightened, holding her in place as he thrust into her over and over, their bodies colliding with an intensity that threatened to tear them apart.

Thalia could barely form words, her mind a haze of pleasure and pain as she rocked back against him, meeting each of his thrusts with desperate need. She was so close, her body trembling, the pressure building inside her until she felt like she might break.

Solas’ hand snaked around to her front, finding the sensitive spot between her thighs as he continued to drive into her from behind. His fingers worked her mercilessly, the combination of his cock and his touch sending her spiraling into a state of pure ecstasy.

"Solas—" she gasped, her voice a desperate cry as she finally teetered on the edge.

"Come for me," he growled into her ear, his voice dark and commanding.

That was all it took. With a loud, ragged moan, Thalia's body exploded into release, her muscles tightening around him as wave after wave of pleasure crashed through her. Her hands strained against the bonds, her legs shaking as she came apart, unable to hold back the force of her orgasm.

Solas didn't stop. He kept thrusting, riding out her release as he chased his own.
The way her body clenched around him, the sound of her moans, sent him spiraling over the edge as well. With a deep, primal growl, he buried himself inside her one last time, his body trembling as he came, filling her up with his heat, his release crashing through him with a force that left him breathless.

For a long moment, the room was filled with nothing but the sound of their heavy breathing, their bodies still entwined, their minds foggy with the afterglow of their shared release. Solas's hands softened their grip, his touch becoming gentle as he leaned forward, pressing a soft kiss to the back of her neck, a stark contrast to the intensity of what had just transpired.

"You... drive me mad, my lady," he whispered, his voice low and hoarse.

Thalia let out a soft, breathless laugh, her body still shaking slightly from the intensity of her orgasm. "Good," she whispered back, her voice filled with satisfaction.

Solas carefully loosened the knot that held her hands bound, freeing her from the bedpost. She sagged against him, her body spent, but her mind still buzzing with the electric energy that only he could ignite.

Together, they remained like that for a moment longer, their breathing slowly returning to normal, their bodies still pressed together in the aftermath of their passion. It was a moment of peace, of connection, in the wake of the storm they had just unleashed.

Chapter Text

The soft light of sunset filtered through the windows of Thalia’s chambers, casting the room in hues of orange and pink as the last rays of sunlight slipped behind the mountains. The day had been long, filled with paperwork and the endless responsibilities of the Inquisition. Thalia sat at her desk, quill in hand, her brow furrowed in concentration as she worked through the last of the reports. Across the room, Solas lounged on the couch near the stair railing, his book open in his lap, the soft turning of pages the only sound between them.

The comfortable silence was one they had long grown accustomed to-both immersed in their own worlds, yet enjoying the quiet companionship of each other's presence. But as the light began to fade and the sky deepened into shades of twilight, Thalia decided she had done enough for the day. She set her quill down, stretching her arms high above her head, arching her back as she stood up from her desk.

Her shirt rode up slightly with the movement, exposing a sliver of her toned stomach, and she caught the flicker of Solas's eyes as they glanced up from his book. His gaze lingered for a brief moment before he pretended to return to his reading, but Thalia saw the way his attention had shifted. A small smile tugged at her lips, knowing full well that she had caught his eye.

Solas was lounging comfortably on the couch, leaning into the corner with one leg draped over the edge, his foot planted firmly on the floor. His other leg stretched across the couch, knee bent and raised slightly. The way he sat gave him a relaxed but commanding presence, perfectly situated as Thalia began her teasing approach. She sauntered over to him and planted herself directly between him and the book, her body draped casually across the couch and leaned back into him as she looked up at him with a teasing glint in her eyes.

"Solas," she said, her voice soft but filled with mischief, "what are you reading?"
Solas sighed softly, amused by her interruption. He marked his place in the book with a finger and glanced down at her. "A treatise on the nature of the Veil and its interactions with the Fade," he replied, his tone patient, though there was a small smile pulling at the corners of his mouth.

Thalia feigned interest for a moment, leaning closer into him. “Fascinating,” she murmured, though her mind was clearly elsewhere. Solas leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to her cheek, his lips lingering just long enough to make her smile. Before she could pull away, his hand gently cupped her face, brushing her hair from her eyes. The kiss lingered, and as Thalia leaned into it, it naturally deepened. Their lips met in a slow, deliberate kiss that quickly grew more intense, her hunger for him building.

As their kiss continued, Solas closed his book with one hand and set it aside on the couch, his full attention now on her. His other hand found its way into her hair, holding her close as he kissed her back, their breath mingling as the intensity between them grew. Thalia shifted closer, her body pressing against his as their kiss became more heated, both of them losing themselves in the moment.

A soft hum of satisfaction escaped Thalia as she allowed herself to sink further down his body, her kisses trailing from his lips to his jawline, and then down his neck.
She moved with purpose, her fingers lightly grazing his chest as her body shifted lower, until she was crouched on the floor between his legs. Her hands rested on his thighs, feeling the tension in the muscles beneath her touch, and she looked up at him with a playful smirk, her eyes glinting with mischief.

Solas's breath hitched as he watched her, his anticipation growing as she began to work at the hem of his breeches, her fingers deftly loosening the fabric. She pulled them down just enough to expose the sharp lines of his lower stomach and pelvis, her lips trailing teasing kisses across the newly exposed skin. Solas's hands gripped the couch, his chest rising and falling more rapidly as he tried to maintain his composure.

"Do you like this?" Thalia asked, her voice low and sultry as she placed another kiss just above where he wanted her most.

Solas swallowed hard, his voice thick with desire as he answered, "Yes."

"Good," she whispered, a teasing smile on her lips as she continued. She pulled his breeches down further, fully exposing him to her now, her eyes flicking up to meet his as she chuckled softly. He was already hard, and the sight of him only made her grin widen.

Without another word, Thalia leaned in and took him into her mouth, her tongue moving in slow, deliberate strokes as she began to work him. Solas groaned deeply, his hands tightening on the edge of the couch as he leaned his head back, his body responding immediately to her touch. Each stroke, each flick of her tongue, drove him closer to the edge, and he could feel the tension building inside him as she worked him with long, deep strokes.

But just as he felt himself begin to reach the tipping point, Thalia stopped.

Solas blinked, his breath ragged as he looked down, confusion flashing in his eyes.
He found her there, kneeling between his legs, her hand still wrapped around him, but her lips curled into a devious smile.

She chuckled softly, running her tongue teasingly along the length of him before pulling back. "Do you want me to keep going?" she asked, her tone playful as she watched him struggle to catch his breath.

Solas exhaled sharply, his chest rising and falling as he nodded. "Yes," he growled, his voice thick with need.

Thalia smirked and, satisfied with his response, resumed her work, her mouth moving over him with deliberate intensity. Solas groaned again, his body trembling as the tension began to build once more, her movements pushing him closer and closer to the edge. But just as before, when he was on the verge of release, she stopped.

This time, Solas growled in frustration, his hands gripping the couch even tighter as he looked down at her, his eyes dark with need. Thalia only smiled, clearly enjoying the power she held over him, her laughter soft as she teased him with her touch.

She whispered, her voice filled with amusement, "you look so good like this."

His breath came in heavy gasps, his patience quickly wearing thin as she tormented him with her teasing. "Thalia," he warned, his voice low, laced with frustration. "Stop playing with me."

But Thalia only chuckled, leaning in to give him a long, slow lick that sent a shiver through his entire body. "Not yet," she whispered.

She went back to work, her mouth and hands moving in perfect harmony as she brought him closer to the edge once more. Solas's breath grew more erratic, his body trembling as he neared release. But just as she felt him about to tip over, she stopped again.

This time, Solas let out a deep growl, his frustration evident in the way his body tensed. "If you stop again," he growled, his voice thick with restrained desire, "I’ll make you finish what you started."

Thalia smirked, clearly unbothered by the threat. "Is that so?" she teased, before resuming her work.

This time, she worked him with more purpose, her mouth moving over him in long, deep strokes. Solas's body tensed beneath her, his breaths coming in quick gasps as he neared the edge again. She could feel him trembling, his hands gripping the couch tightly as his hips began to move in sync with her.

But just as she was about to stop, Solas's hands shot down, grabbing her head with both hands. His fingers tangled in her hair, holding her firmly in place as he growled low in his throat. "Not this time."

With a rough tug, he guided her head, forcing her to keep going as he began to thrust his hips in time with her movements. Thalia let out a muffled moan, her body responding to the intensity of his control as he took over, his hips moving faster and harder.

Solas's grip tightened in her hair as his body tensed, his breath growing more ragged as he pushed himself over the edge. With a deep, guttural groan, he came, his body trembling as the pleasure crashed over him, his release spilling into her mouth.

He held her there, guiding her through it, his hands still tangled in her hair as he rode out the waves of his climax. When it was finally over, he released his grip, his body slumping back against the couch as he let out a deep, satisfied breath.

Thalia sat up, wiped the corner of her mouth, chuckling softly as she looked up at him. "I'd say you enjoyed that."

Solas gazed down at her, his eyes heavy-lidded with the ecstasy of his release.
"More than you know, vhenan," he murmured, his voice rough and filled with affection.

Chapter Text

The campfire crackled softly in the quiet of the Emerald Graves, the dim moonlight casting a faint glow through the thick canopy of trees above. The night was peaceful, but the tension in the air was palpable, unspoken between Thalia and Solas. Sera and Dorian were with them, the two already winding down from the day's travels. Sera had tossed her boots off, lounging near the fire, while Dorian fussed over the dirt on his boots.

Thalia was busy sorting through the supplies, checking to make sure they had enough for the days ahead, her fingers grazing over the worn leather of their provisions. Across the camp, Solas sat by the fire, casually reading a book. His gaze occasionally flickered over to Thalia, who was acutely aware of the way his presence seemed to pull her attention away from her task.

The heaviest layers of their armor had been removed, leaving them in their lighter, casual clothes, but even in this relaxed state, there was a tension simmering just beneath the surface. They both knew it-had known it all day—but with Sera and Dorian so close, neither could act on the energy that sparked between them.

Thalia bit her lip, her fingers grazing over the last of the supplies, and finally, she stood up, making her decision. "I'm going to collect more elfroot," she said casually, though her voice had an edge to it, something almost too rehearsed. Sera and Dorian barely glanced up, absorbed in their own conversations.

Solas didn't say a word, but his eyes lingered on her as she grabbed her staff, knowing full well it wasn't needed. A few moments later, he followed suit, making his own excuse about checking the perimeter, his staff slung over his shoulder as he slipped into the shadows of the forest. Going into the opposite direction where Thalia had gone.

They moved far enough away from the camp that the firelight was no longer visible, and the sounds of their companions had long since faded. The trees loomed high above them, their trunks thick and gnarled, casting deep shadows in the moonlight.
Thalia moved with purpose, though she couldn't shake the feeling that she was being followed.

And then, almost by accident, they walked into each other.

Thalia’s breath caught as she let out a startled yelp, her staff clattering against the nearby tree. Before the sound could carry far, Solas was upon her, swift and silent. In an instant, he wrapped an arm around her waist from behind, pulling her against him as his other hand came up to cover her mouth.

“Shh,” he whispered softly in her ear, his breath warm against her skin. “Be quiet.”

Thalia’s eyes widened in surprise, her heart racing from both the suddenness and the closeness of him. But when she realized it was Solas, her body relaxed, instantly sinking into his hold. The tension melted away, and instead of fear, she felt the warmth of his embrace, her head leaning back slightly into his chest as she let out a soft, muffled sigh behind his hand.

Solas's hand slowly slipped away from her mouth, and they stood there for a moment, their bodies pressed close, the night around them growing impossibly still.
His lips brushed her ear, his breath warm as he whispered, "Are we far enough away?"

Thalia smiled, her pulse quickening as her body responded to his nearness. "I hope so," she whispered back, her voice barely audible.

But Solas didn't seem to care. Before she could say anything more, he move in front of her and pushed her back against the nearest tree, his body pressing against hers with a hunger that had been brewing all day. His lips found hers in an instant, the kiss hot, demanding, as his hands moved over her body, pulling her shirt up, exploring her curves with a sense of urgency. Thalia responded just as fiercely, her fingers tangling in his shirt as she pulled him closer, needing to feel him against her.

The bark of the tree was rough against her back, but Thalia barely noticed as Solas's hands roamed over her, tugging at her breeches, his kisses growing more desperate with each passing second. He bit her lip softly, his teeth grazing her skin before his lips trailed down her neck, leaving a path of fire in their wake.

His hands worked quickly, pulling her breeches and smallclothes down in one swift motion, baring her to the cool night air. Thalia gasped, but the sound was swallowed by Solas's mouth as he kissed her again, more urgently this time, his hands gripping her hips as though he couldn't bear to be apart from her for even a moment.

Then, without breaking the kiss, Solas sank to his knees before her, his fingers still firmly wrapped around her hips. Thalia shivered as his breath and lips ghosted over her skin, the anticipation of what was to come making her heart race.

She lifted one leg, draping it over his shoulder, and Solas welcomed the gesture with a low growl of approval. His arm gripped her thigh, holding her steady as his lips began their slow exploration of her inner thigh. His mouth moved deliberately, leaving soft, open-mouthed kisses along her skin, before his teeth grazed the tender flesh there.

Thalia bit her lip, trying to stifle the sounds that wanted to escape, but when Solas's teeth sank deeper into her thigh, she gasped. The bite was harder than before, leaving a red mark and the beginnings of a bruise in its wake. A mix of pain and pleasure shot through her, and she quickly brought her hand up to her mouth, pressing it firmly against her lips to muffle her moans. Her breath hitched as he continued to work her skin, kissing and biting in equal measure, each mark a reminder of the intensity of the moment.

Solas's lips continued their teasing, kissing and biting her inner thigh, leaving faint marks in his wake. But then, his free hand moved between her legs, his fingers slipping inside her with a smooth, practiced motion. Thalia gasped, her body arching against the tree as his fingers curled inside her, stroking her in a way that made her pulse quicken.

With his thumb, Solas rubbed her sensitive spot, moving in slow, deliberate circles that had her trembling under his touch. Thalia moaned softly behind her hand, trying desperately to keep quiet, but the sensation was overwhelming. The cool night air against her heated skin, the rough texture of the tree behind her, and Solas's hands and mouth working in perfect harmony— it was almost too much.

"Quiet," Solas murmured against her thigh, his voice a low, heated rasp as his fingers continued their slow, torturous rhythm inside her. His thumb pressed a little harder against her sensitive spot, and Thalia's body shuddered in response, her breath coming in shallow gasps as the pleasure built inside her.

Thalia's hand tangled in his shirt, pulling him closer, urging him on as her body trembled with need. Solas obliged, his mouth pressing harder against her skin, his teeth grazing her thigh in another bite, marking her as his fingers moved faster, pushing her closer to the edge.

Her moans grew louder behind her hand, her body trembling as the pleasure became unbearable. "Solas..." she gasped, her voice breaking as she teetered on the edge of release. His fingers curled inside her, finding just the right spot, and with a final stroke, Thalia came undone. Her body arched against the tree, her hand still pressed firmly to her mouth as the waves of pleasure crashed over her, leaving her breathless and trembling.

Solas continued to work her through her release, his hand moving gently now, coaxing her down from the heights of her pleasure. When she finally stilled, her breathing ragged, he pressed one last kiss to her thigh, his lips lingering over the mark he had left behind, before slowly rising to his feet. His eyes were dark with desire as he met her gaze, his lips curling into a small, satisfied smile.

Thalia's chest heaved as she tried to catch her breath, her body still trembling from the intensity of her release. She reached for him, pulling him close, their lips meeting in a slow, lingering kiss that spoke of everything they couldn't say aloud. The warmth of his mouth against hers was grounding, but beneath it, there was still something smoldering-something far from finished.

Despite the satisfaction that coursed through her, Thalia felt a renewed hunger stirring inside her, the need for him growing even stronger. She could feel it in the way Solas responded to her kiss, the heat simmering just beneath the surface.
Without a word, she deepened the kiss, her movements more deliberate, her desire reigniting as she sensed the same hunger in him.

With sudden strength, she gripped his shoulders and, with a swift motion, switched their places, pushing him against the rough bark of the tree. Her hands moved quickly to unbutton his shirt, revealing his freckled chest and toned torso, her lips already trailing the path her hands had opened.

Her lips descended on him immediately, kissing and lightly biting all over his skin.
She left a trail of warmth and pressure along his chest and shoulders, before biting down harder over his heart, leaving a deep red mark-a reminder of her possession.
Solas groaned softly in response, his head tilting back against the tree as his hands rested at his sides, fingers flexing against the bark.

Thalia continued her slow descent, kissing and biting her way down his stomach, her lips grazing the faint lines of his muscles as she knelt before him. With deliberate precision, she untied his breeches and pulled them down, exposing his hard cock to the night air. Without hesitation, she took him in her hand, her grip firm and confident, leaning in to bite him lightly at the base.

Solas let out a deep, restrained groan, his body reacting instinctively to her touch.
He pressed a hand over his mouth, trying to keep quiet as Thalia's mouth and hand worked in tandem, her kisses and bites trailing along his stomach while her hand teased him with slow, purposeful strokes. Occasionally, she would slide him into her mouth, just enough to make him tremble beneath her.

His breath grew more ragged, the quiet groans in his throat betraying his struggle to remain silent. His other hand found its way to her hair, fingers tangling in the strands as she continued to work him, pushing him closer to the edge. Each time her mouth moved over him, Solas gripped her hair more tightly, his hips involuntarily shifting toward her as his body reacted to the overwhelming pleasure.

Thalia could feel Solas nearing his breaking point, his body tensing beneath her touch. Every movement of her hand sent him closer to the edge, his breath coming in ragged gasps. She sensed the shift in him, the way his muscles tightened, signaling that he was almost undone. In response, she let her hand still, shifting her focus entirely to her mouth.

She took him in deeper, her lips sliding over him with deliberate slowness, savoring every inch of him. As she moved, she took all of him into her mouth, feeling him press against the back of her throat. Her tongue teased him as she worked him steadily, her mouth wrapping around him with a combination of heat and pressure that made Solas groan softly, the sound escaping before he could stop it.

He tried to stifle the noise, holding his breath as both hands found their way to her head, fingers threading through her hair. His grip was gentle but insistent, guiding her pace as he urged her to continue, desperate for the release that now hovered just out of reach. Thalia moved in perfect rhythm, knowing exactly how to push him to that final edge.

Her movements quickened, her mouth working over him, taking him deeper each time. Solas's breath hitched as the pressure became unbearable, his hands gripping her hair as he tried desperately to keep quiet. He nearly choked on his own breath, his body shuddering as the sensation became too much. With one final groan, he came in her mouth, the heat of him filling her as he released.

Thalia dragged him along her tongue, savoring the taste of him, feeling his heat as it hit the back of her throat. She swallowed without hesitation, taking everything he gave her, her lips still moving over him as his body trembled in the aftermath of his release.

When it was over, she pulled back slightly, looking up at him with a satisfied, knowing smile, her eyes gleaming in the dim moonlight.

Thalia remained on her knees in front of him for a moment longer, looking up at Solas with a satisfied smile. She wiped her lips with her fingers, her eyes glinting with mischief as she caught her breath.

"You looked tense," she teased, her voice a soft whisper, still laced with amusement.
"I'd say you needed that release."

Solas let out a low chuckle, his head tilting slightly as he gazed down at her, his hand brushing gently along the back of his neck. “Dangerous,” he muttered under his breath, warm affection lacing his tone. “You. Are dangerous, vhenan.”

Thalia smirked as she rose to her feet, brushing the dirt off her knees before Solas pulled her in, his hands finding her waist with ease. His lips met hers in a deep, slow kiss, his affection pouring into every movement. She melted into him for a moment, their bodies pressed close, their shared warmth lingering in the night air.

When they finally parted, Solas's hand lingered at her waist, his thumb brushing over her skin. Thalia stepped back, giving him a playful grin as she began to gather her clothes.

Without a word, she bent to pick up her smallclothes and breeches, quickly pulling them back on with a practiced ease. Solas, still watching her with that quiet intensity, tugged his breeches back over his hips, binding them as he took in her every movement. His fingers moved methodically as he started fastened the buttons on his shirt, his breath finally steadying as the cool air brushed against his freshly dressed skin.

Thalia finished dressing, grabbing her staff and slinging it over her shoulder, casting one last look at Solas. She raised an eyebrow, her lips curling into a smirk. "You might want to button up a little faster, Vhenan. Can't have you wandering back to camp looking all... unraveled."

Solas smirked back, his eyes narrowing playfully. "I think you enjoy leaving me behind like this, vhenan."

Her laugh was soft and full of amusement as she took a step back, the moonlight catching her playful expression. "Oh, I do," she replied, her voice light and teasing.
"But I think I'm not quite done with you yet."

Without another word, Thalia turned and bolted into the night, her giggles trailing behind her, leaving Solas standing there, his heart pounding with affection for her.

For a moment, he simply watched her disappear into the forest, the quiet laughter still ringing in the air. He shook his head, utterly and completely in love with her, knowing full well what awaited him deeper in the trees. With a quiet laugh, he picked up his staff and followed her, his footsteps soft as he ventured further into the shadows, knowing there would be another round of pleasure waiting just ahead.

Chapter Text

The moonlight shimmered through the dense canopy of the woods as Thalia dashed further into the forest, her staff clutched tightly in her hand. Her heart pounded with both excitement and adrenaline, the thrill of the chase sparking a playful fire in her chest. She cast Fade Step again, her form dissolving into mist and reappearing several feet ahead, leaving Solas behind in a swirl of laughter. But she knew he kept up with her; his presence, though unseen, seemed to be everywhere.

Solas, the more experienced mage between the two of them, had been watching her carefully. He allowed her the advantage for a while, keeping his distance, letting her tire herself out with each step. His movements were deliberate, his magic allowing him to blend seamlessly with the shadows of the forest. As Thalia sprinted further, her laughter filled the woods, light and carefree. Every time she cast Fade Step, dissolving into mist and reappearing several feet ahead, she could feel Solas closing in just before she slipped out of reach, teasing him with her growing advantage.

“Too slow!” she called out with a playful grin, glancing over her shoulder as she darted around a tree, her feet light on the mossy ground. Her heart raced with exhilaration, each step fueling the excitement of their game. She could hear his soft footsteps behind her, the steady rhythm of his chase pushing her to go faster.

Another Fade Step carried her further ahead, her form shimmering like smoke in the moonlight before solidifying again in the distance. She giggled to herself, feeling the thrill of the moment as she ran deeper into the woods, her pulse quickening. The rush of using her magic made her feel weightless, and she could hear her own breath catching in excitement as she imagined Solas trying to close the gap between them.

But then, something strange caught her interest. Thalia stopped hearing his footsteps. She slowed her pace, her giggles fading into soft breaths as she glanced back over her shoulder again, expecting to see him. He should have been just behind her—she was certain of it.

The forest, however, had grown eerily still.

Frowning, Thalia cast another glance around, her eyes scanning the darkened trees. “Solas?” she called out, her voice light but questioning, thinking maybe he was teasing her now. She paused for a heartbeat, expecting his tall, familiar form to emerge from the shadows with that sly, knowing smile of his.

But nothing came.

She stood there for a moment, her staff gripped in her hand, her breathing still quick from the chase. She laughed softly to herself, shaking her head. “Alright, you win,” she said aloud, her voice cutting through the silence of the woods. “You can come out now.”

Still, there was no response.

Her heart fluttered uneasily in her chest. Had he really just… disappeared? She took a few cautious steps forward, her eyes scanning the trees again, her senses straining to catch any movement. The only sound was the soft rustle of leaves above her, the gentle sway of branches in the cool night breeze. Her laughter faded entirely as an unsettling silence fell over the clearing.

Her breath hitched slightly, a flicker of worry stirring at the edges of her mind. Had something happened to him? She reached out with her senses, trying to detect any trace of his presence, but the forest around her felt unnervingly empty. Her hand tightened on her staff as the realization slowly crept over her—Solas was gone.

“Solas?” she called again, this time louder, her voice breaking the stillness. The playful tone was gone now, replaced by a note of confusion. She took another step forward, the faint echo of her own voice bouncing off the trees as she stood there, suddenly feeling very alone.

The moment stretched on, and with each passing second feeling like a minute, the silence became more oppressive. The absence of his pursuit, the lack of any sign of him, made her heart race for an entirely different reason now. What if something had happened to him? What if they weren’t alone in these woods? Thalia’s mind raced as her breath quickened, panic starting to settle in.

The Freemen of the Dales were known to stalk these woods—dangerous, ruthless rebels who wouldn’t hesitate to attack anyone affiliated with the Inquisition. Her pulse surged as she recalled the ambushes they had with them. What if they had found him? What if Solas had fallen into a trap? Her grip on her staff tightened more, her eyes darting to the darkened trees, searching for any sign of movement.

Her heart pounded in her chest now, her earlier confidence quickly eroding as the weight of the silence pressed down on her. The once playful chase had turned into something far more tense, the forest no longer felt like a game. She took another step forward, her breath catching in her throat as the creeping sense of Dread began to claw at her.

“Solas?” she called out again, her voice breaking slightly with the rising worry.

And then, in an instant, she felt a strong arm wrap around her from behind, pulling her backward into a firm, unyielding embrace. Before she could react, a hand clamped over her mouth, silencing the startled gasp that had just escaped her lips. Her body tensed immediately, her mind racing as fear surged through her. For a fleeting, terrifying moment, she thought it was someone else—one of the Freemen, or a hunter waiting to strike.

Her heart hammered in her chest, her instincts telling her to fight, to struggle against the hold. But then, as she felt the warmth of the body against hers and heard the low, familiar voice whispering softly in her pointed ear, the panic melted away.

“You’re out of mana, vhenan,” Solas whispered, his voice filled with amusement and something darker, something more possessive. “You can’t fade step away from me anymore.”

Relief flooded through her, followed quickly by the thrill of knowing that he had been one step ahead of her all along. He had been toying with her, letting her exhaust her magic while he remained in control. Thalia’s body relaxed against him, her breath slowing as she leaned into his hold, the earlier panic now replaced by the exhilarating realization of what was to come.

Thalia squirmed slightly, testing his grip, but it was unyielding. She was completely at his mercy, and the realization sent another rush of excitement through her. She turned her head slightly, her lips brushing against the palm of his hand as her breath quickened. Solas chuckled softly, sensing her response.

Thalia's breath hitched beneath Solas's firm grip, her body tensing as his hand remained over her mouth, keeping her quiet. The tension between them was palpable, the thrill of being caught sending an electric current through her. She could feel his steady, controlled breathing against the back of her neck as he held her tightly in place, his body pressed firmly against hers. The sudden shift from playful chase to quiet intensity left her dizzy, her senses heightened by the stillness of the forest.

His other hand moved slowly, deliberately, tracing the curve of her waist as it slipped lower, his touch sending a shiver down her spine. Thalia's heart raced in her chest, her breaths shallow and quick against his palm. She was completely at his mercy, unable to move, her magic depleted, and yet, the vulnerability of the moment only heightened her anticipation.

Solas's fingers dipped beneath the fabric of her breeches and small clothes, his movements purposeful yet unhurried. Thalia's body responded immediately, her muscles tightening in response as he slipped his fingers into her heat. The forest around them seemed to fall away, the only sound her soft, muffled breaths as Solas continued, his hand moving with the same precision and care he always showed her.

Her mind spun, caught in the overwhelming sensation of the moment. Each stroke of his fingers sent waves of warmth through her, building slowly, steadily, until she was teetering on the edge. The strength of his hold kept her grounded, even as her body began to tremble, her legs growing weak beneath her.

Solas's lips brushed against her ear, his breath warm and heavy, a low murmur escaping him. "You can't run anymore, vhenan. You're mine now."

Thalia's eyes fluttered closed, her pulse quickening as his words sank in. She could feel herself giving in, the tension inside her coiling tighter and tighter with each deliberate motion of his hand. Her breathing became ragged, her body arching slightly into his touch, her head falling back against his shoulder. The pressure inside her built to an unbearable height, and her muffled gasps became more urgent.

The moment arrived all at once-a wave of warmth and release crashing over her, her body trembling in his arms as she succumbed to the intensity of the sensation.

Solas held her steady, his hand still firmly over her mouth, her soft, restrained moans the only sound in the stillness of the forest. The world around them seemed to slow, the quiet night air enveloping them in its embrace as she came undone in his arms.

Solas's breath was warm against the back of Thalia's neck as he held her close, the weight of the moment surrounding them. The forest remained still, the only sounds between them the soft rustling of leaves and their breaths mingling in the night air.
He held her firm, his hand still firmly covering her mouth, as the depth of their connection pulsed between them-both an unspoken understanding and a shared desire.

Slowly, with one hand, he began to pull their breeches down, his movements deliberate and controlled, never breaking the hold he had on her. Thalia's body trembled, anticipation coiling through her with every touch. Solas’ cock was already hard again, the excitement of working her to that point and hearing her soft, muffled moans only deepening his desire for her.

Thalia leaned back against him, her body surrendering to the control he held over the moment. The trust between them, the knowledge that she was completely safe in his hands, made every sensation feel more electric. His hand, still firmly over her mouth, kept her anchored, even as her mind began to blur with the tension building inside her once again.

With a slow, deliberate motion, Solas pressed himself against her from behind, sliding his cock into her folds. His lips found the soft curve of her neck, brushing gentle kisses along her skin as their connection deepened.

Thalia's breath hitched, muffled against his hand, her eyes fluttering closed as her body responded to every movement, every kiss. She could feel the intensity between them, the way every touch, every shift, sent ripples of sensation through her.

Solas's grip tightened around her waist as he continued, his pace steady yet full of passion and need they both shared. Thalia's hands grasped at his arms, desperate to hold onto something as her body responded to him, each movement building the tension between them once more. She could hear his breath growing more ragged, his soft groans mixing with the quiet sounds of the forest around them.

Solas pressed himself against Thalia, his breath heavy as the moment overtook them both. Every movement was deliberate, each thrust of his body into hers carrying the weight of their connection. His deep groans were quiet but filled with raw emotion, the sound reverberating through the stillness of the forest as he held her close.
Every sound he made reflected the depth of his desire, a low, guttural resonance that spoke of more than just physical need—it was a release of the tension that had built up between them, a reflection of how completely she consumed him.

After a while of Solas working her steady from behind, his pace firm and controlled, the tension between them building higher and higher, he decided he wanted more of her. His hands slid slowly from her waist, releasing the grip that had kept her in place, and at last, he removed his hand from her mouth. Thalia gasped, her lungs filling with much-needed air, her body trembling from the overwhelming sensations coursing through her.

Solas's eyes met hers, dark with intensity, and without a word, he bent down to remove her breeches fully, letting them fall to the forest floor along with her smallclothes. The cool night air brushed against her bare skin. Thalia barely had a moment to react before Solas's strong hands found their way to her thighs, lifting her up effortlessly. She instinctively wrapped her legs around his waist, her arms looping around his neck as she clung to him.

With a steady step, Solas walked her to the nearest tree, his body pressed firmly against hers, keeping her suspended in the air. Her upper back met the bark with a soft thud, and the roughness of it against her skin only heightened the sensations swirling between them. Solas's grip on her tightened, his fingers digging into the sensitive part of her thighs as he spread her open, positioning her just right.

Thalia's breath hitched as she felt his cock against her again, and when he entered her again, it was slow and deliberate, as though he wanted to savor every second. The world around them seemed to fade away-the stars overhead, the canopy of trees, the distant rustle of leaves in the night wind-all of it disappeared, leaving only the two of them, completely entwined in the quiet wilderness.

Solas's hands held her firm, guiding her movements as he lifted her up and down in a steady rhythm. Each motion sent ripples of sensation through her, and the friction between their bodies, combined with the rough texture of the tree at her back, made the moment feel raw, electric. Thalia's hands clung tightly to his shoulders, her fingers digging into the fabric of his shirt as her body responded to every shift and thrust.

Their breaths became ragged, the quiet of the forest broken by the sounds they made. Neither of them cared anymore about keeping quiet-the restraint from earlier was gone, replaced by the primal intensity of the moment. Thalia's soft moans escaped her lips, growing louder with each movement, while Solas's deep groans filled the space between them, his voice low and full of need. It was as though the entire forest was echoing with the sound of their connection, their bodies moving together in perfect harmony.

Solas leaned forward, his forehead resting briefly against hers, and she could feel his breath hot against her lips, every exhale mirroring her own. His lips found her neck again, leaving heated kisses along her skin, his nose brushing against her as he moved. Each kiss felt like fire, igniting something even deeper within her. Thalia gasped as the pleasure built, her body trembling against his as the tension coiled tight in her core.

The rhythm of their movements grew more frantic, driven by the mutual need that pulsed between them. Solas's grip on her tightened even more as he quickened the pace, lifting and lowering her with renewed intensity. Their bodies were moving together as one, the raw energy between them building to an almost unbearable height.

Thalia could feel herself nearing the edge, the sensation overwhelming her as she clung to him, her fingers curling into his skin. Her voice was barely a whisper at first, but it grew louder as the tension became too much to bear. "Solas..." she gasped, her words trembling with urgency.

His response was a deep groan, his own breath coming in short, ragged gasps as he pushed them both closer to the edge. The intensity between them was palpable, and it felt as though the entire forest was holding its breath, waiting for them to fall over that final peak.

When it finally came, it was explosive. Thalia's body shuddered violently, her release crashing over her in waves that left her breathless. Her moans filled the air, unrestrained, as she let go completely, her body melting into Solas's embrace. He followed soon after, his own release hitting him with just as much force, his deep groan reverberating through her as he held her tight against the tree. His heat filling her. The world around them seemed to blur as they both reached their peak, their voices mingling in the quiet night, their bodies trembling in the aftermath.

For a long moment, they stayed like that, their foreheads resting against each other as they caught their breath, their hearts still racing in time. The intensity of the moment slowly gave way to a quiet calm, the night air cool against their heated skin.
Solas's hands, once gripping her with such urgency, now softened, his touch gentle as he held her close.

Chapter Text

It was late-far later than she had expected, but Thalia remained awake, standing by the hearth in her chambers, the soft glow of the firelight casting flickering shadows across the stone walls. She pulled her robe tighter around her, the warmth comforting against the chill that had settled into the air. The night was quiet, and the stillness around her only heightened her anticipation. Solas was late. She knew he had to be careful, that he couldn't be seen slipping into her chambers at such an hour-his every movement had to be precise. Their relationship was kept hidden from most, a secret known only by a select few.

Thalia allowed her mind to wander, her thoughts lingering on the feeling of his touch, the intensity of their connection. It had been a while since they had last shared a night together, and the yearning in her chest grew stronger with each passing moment. She turned slightly, glancing at the door, wondering when he would finally arrive. And then, without a sound, she felt him before she saw him.

Solas had slipped inside silently, his presence like a shadow moving across the room. Thalia hadn't even noticed at first-his entrance so quiet that it startled her when she finally turned to face him. He was standing there, his face calm, his eyes filled with warmth as they met hers.

"I didn't mean to keep you waiting," he whispered softly, stepping toward her. "I thought you'd be asleep by now."

Thalia shook her head, a playful smirk tugging at the corner of her lips. "I don't care how late it is," she replied, her voice full of affection. "I just wanted to feel you again."

Solas’ gaze softened at her words, and he stepped closer, his hand reaching up to brush a lock of hair away from her face. “Then let’s make sure the night is worth the wait.”

He lingered for a moment, studying her expression as though considering something. His eyes were filled with a quiet intensity, the weight of his thoughts clear on his face. After a moment, he spoke again, his voice low, intimate. "I want to try something tonight, something different." He hesitated, as if waiting for her reaction, his hand still lightly brushing her cheek. "Something... exciting."

Thalia's smirk deepened, her curiosity piqued. "I'm always up for your suggestions, Solas," she said, her tone playful but full of trust. She had never doubted him before, and tonight would be no different.

Solas' lips twitched into a soft smile, and without another word, he raised his hand and began tracing a glyph over her chest. The magic hummed faintly as the rune took form, glowing softly beneath his palm. It was a spell she wasn't familiar with, but she didn't question him-she trusted him implicitly.

The glyph shimmered, its glow intensifying for a brief moment before he pressed it into her and it burst outward, enveloping them both in a wave of magic. Thalia gasped softly as the spell took hold, the air around her seeming to shift, becoming more vibrant, more alive.

Every sound, every breath, every brush of air against her skin felt sharper, more vivid, as though the world around her had come alive in a new and electrifying way. She blinked, trying to make sense of the sensation that now enveloped her. "What did you do?" she asked breathlessly, her voice trembling slightly as she adjusted to the changes in her body.

Solas didn't answer immediately. Instead, he stepped closer, his hands cupping her face as his lips found hers. The kiss was slow, deliberate, but the intensity of it was overwhelming. It was as though every nerve in her body had come alive, each touch of his lips sending ripples of sensation through her. The magic worked its way into every part of her, amplifying the intimacy of the moment.

As their kiss deepened, a wave of excitement rushed through her, her body instinctively leaning closer, unable to resist the magnetic pull between them. Solas pulled back slightly, his forehead resting against hers, both of them breathing heavily. "Are you alright?" he asked softly, his voice filled with care.

Thalia nodded, though it took her a moment to find her voice. "I'm fine," she whispered, her breath shaky. "I just... need a moment to adjust. What is this?"

Solas' lips brushed against her cheek, his breath warm against her skin. "It's an old spell," he murmured, his voice low, almost reverent. "One I found in an ancient tome years before I joined the Inquisition. It enhances sensation... heightens everything you feel."

Thalia closed her eyes, her body trembling slightly as she took in the new sensations. It was as though her mortal body had faded away, leaving only her spirit to experience the world around her. The air itself felt alive, humming against her skin like the soft whisper of the Veil. Every touch from Solas was electric, sending waves of warmth through her body.

Solas’s hands moved with practiced ease, sliding beneath her robe and guiding it off her shoulders until it slipped to the floor, revealing her night dress beneath. The cool air of the room felt like a soft caress against her skin, every sensation magnified by the spell. Thalia shivered, not from the cold, but from the overwhelming feeling of magic coursing through her body.

With a slow, deliberate motion, Solas slipped the straps of her night dress off her shoulders. The soft linen cascaded down her body, grazing her skin like a whisper before pooling at her feet. The sensation of the fabric falling away left her breathless, her body exposed to the cool air that felt impossibly vivid against her heightened senses. She gasped softly, feeling as though each brush of the dress had left her more attuned to every sensation in the room, the magic thrumming between them like a living presence.

His eyes never left hers as he reached for his belt, untying it with a slow, deliberate motion. He stepped behind her, wrapping the belt around her wrists, binding them together gently. It was an act they had performed before, but with the magic pulsing between them, the sensation of the leather against her skin felt almost surreal. The pressure of the belt was light, yet it sent shivers through her as he tightened the knot, securing her hands behind her back.

His lips brushed against her ear as he whispered, "Are you alright, vhenan? Do you want me to keep going?"

Thalia's breath came in soft, ragged gasps as she nodded, her voice barely more than a whisper. "Yes," she breathed.

His hands moved back to her arms, his touch light but full of purpose. The magic continued to thrum between them, every touch, every movement amplified. Thalia's heart raced as his hands explored her body, his fingers brushing over her skin in a way that made her feel as though she was floating. The sensation of being bound only heightened her awareness of his presence, the trust between them deepening with every passing moment.

Solas moved with purpose as he began to undress, his eyes never leaving Thalia as her breath came in quick, shallow bursts. Every movement he made felt deliberate, almost ritualistic, as the magic they shared continued to hum in the air between them. The soft rustling of his clothes being removed filled the room, a subtle sound that carried far more weight given the heightened sensitivity they both felt.

When he stepped closer to her, the heat from his bare chest and stomach pressed gently against her back and tied wrists, the sensation was indescribable. Thalia's entire body trembled under the intensity of the feeling-his skin against hers, the firm warmth of his form enveloping her like a protective barrier. It was as though every inch of her body was alive.

Solas' hands moved slowly, tracing over her shoulders and down her arms, then snaking their way down her sides. His touch felt electric, sending ripples of sensation through her. Thalia bit down hard on her lip, stifling a moan that threatened to escape as his fingers glided lower, the feeling so intense it was almost overwhelming. The air seemed charged, the quiet night and the crackling of the fire adding to the intimacy of the moment.

Thalia gasped, struggling to keep her breath steady, her body instinctively leaning into his touch. Solas, ever aware of her reactions, paused for a moment, his lips brushing the back of her neck. "Are you alright?" he whispered softly, his voice filled with concern and tenderness, though his own breathing had grown heavier with the intensity of the moment.

Unable to speak, Thalia simply nodded, her chest rising and falling quickly as she adjusted to the heightened sensations coursing through her. She could feel his breath against her skin, each exhale sending a fresh wave of warmth through her body.

Solas continued, his hands moving lower until they found their way between her thighs. The moment his fingers slipped into her, Thalia's body reacted instinctively, a soft, muffled sound escaping her as she bit down harder on her lip. His touch was careful yet precise, each stroke sending her deeper into the flood of sensations that rippled through her like waves.

His lips found the back of her neck once more, trailing soft, lingering kisses along her skin, each touch sending a ripple of warmth through her. The delicate pressure of his mouth moved slowly up the length of her freckled shoulders, his breath hot against her skin. Every kiss felt electric, making her body respond with shivers of pleasure. Then, as his teeth grazed the edge of her pointed ear, Thalia let out a soft gasp, her body trembling beneath him.

Solas, too, was feeling the heightened sensations, his own breath growing more ragged as he reveled in the way her body responded to his touch. He took his time, savoring the moment, letting the magic between them enhance everything they felt. His fingers moved expertly, working her slowly, steadily, as her body began to tremble beneath his hands.

But then, he stopped, giving her a moment to catch her breath. Thalia exhaled sharply, her body still trembling from the intensity of it all. Solas watched her with that familiar, affectionate gaze, his patience never wavering. He allowed her the time she needed, his presence calm yet charged with anticipation. Every beat of silence only deepened the connection between them, as though the air itself was holding its breath, waiting for what was to come next.

Without a word, Solas gently guided her from the center of the room toward the bed.
Thalia, eager to continue, moved with purpose, her body already responding to the promise of what was to come. With the ease of familiarity, she positioned herself on the bed-on her knees, her face pressed into the soft mattress, her ass up in the air and her hands bound behind her back. It was a position they had often preformed before, but now, with the magic amplifying every sensation, it felt entirely new, as though the tension between them was building to something even more powerful.

Solas chuckled softly at her eagerness, his voice filled with warmth as he crawled onto the bed behind her. The warmth radiating from their bodies now seemed even more palpable, the magic making every brush of skin against skin feel like a surge of energy. His own breathing had grown heavier with anticipation, and though he already knew her answer, he still asked, "Are you ready, vhenan?"

Thalia whispered "yes," her voice barely audible, trembling with excitement and need.

Solas' hands slowly found their way to her hips, his touch sending a new wave of warmth through her body as he held her firmly, his grip steady but tender. His fingers pressed into her skin with a careful, deliberate strength, grounding her while igniting the anticipation simmering just beneath the surface. The air felt alive, charged with desire, each breath carrying the weight of the moment.

Slowly, deliberately, Solas pushed his cock into her. The sensation was so intense they both trembled, their bodies responding instinctively. Thalia's breath caught in her throat, a soft moan escaping her lips as the pleasure washed over her in waves. Solas' grip tightened on her hips as he held her steady, his own breath coming in ragged gasps. They both paused for a moment, nearly undone by the overwhelming sensations they shared.

As they caught their breath, Solas began to move, slowly at first, each movement deliberate and filled with purpose. The magic between them made everything sharper, more vivid. Thalia's body trembled with every motion, her breaths shallow as the intensity built, each thrust sending shockwaves through her. Solas moved with increasing speed, the connection between them deepening with every passing second, their shared energy pulsing in time with their rhythm.

His hand moved from her hip to her bound wrists, his grip firm yet tender as he used them to guide her movements. The feeling of restraint, combined with his careful control, sent a rush of sensation through her, heightening the anticipation with every shift. Each motion felt powerful, as though the connection between them was deepening with every touch, every breath. The intensity of it all built slowly, a steady rise that left Thalia teetering on the edge of control, barely able to contain the sensations flooding through her.

When her release finally came, it crashed over her like a tidal wave, overwhelming and all-consuming. She gasped, her body trembling violently as the climax tore through her, leaving her breathless. The magic amplified every feeling, each muscle spasm, each wave of pleasure magnified until it became almost too much to bear.
For a moment, she felt as though she might stop breathing entirely, her senses so overwhelmed by the power of the moment that everything else seemed to fade away, leaving only the raw intensity of the connection between them.

Solas, ever attuned to her, paused briefly, his voice soft with concern. "Are you alright?"

Thalia, barely able to catch her breath, nodded, her voice weak but filled with satisfaction. "More than alright."

Solas chuckled softly, the sound filled with affection and quiet satisfaction. He started moving again as Thalia's body trembled beneath him, his movements became faster, more deliberate, each thrust filled with purpose. He could feel the tension between them building once again, driving him forward with a deep, primal need.

The steady rhythm of his body against hers only intensified the sensations, making each moment more electric. Every time Thalia arched her back to meet his movements, every soft moan that escaped her lips, only drove him further. Her subtle movements, the way her body instinctively responded to his touch, ignited something primal in him, stirring his desire with every passing second.

As the intensity mounted, Thalia felt herself nearing the edge once more, the feeling sharper, more powerful with each movement. The magic coursing through her body heightened every touch, every sensation until it was almost too much to bear. She could feel Solas' firm grip on her wrists, the way he guided her, controlled the pace, and it sent her spiraling toward another release. When she finally climaxed again, the pleasure was overwhelming, washing over her in waves that left her breathless, her body shaking from the force of it. Solas didn't stop, his steady pace making the sensations more intense, pushing her beyond the brink.

A third climax followed almost immediately as he kept moving, her body barely having time to recover before the next wave hit. Her muscles tensed, her breath came in short, ragged gasps, and the pleasure consumed her, the force of it leaving her unable to think of anything else. Solas, feeling her reactions beneath him, continued with unwavering focus, his own pleasure building as he thrust deeper, knowing that every motion was driving them both closer to the edge. Thalia's body shook violently as the climax subsided, leaving her trembling, completely at his mercy.

Solas could feel himself nearing the edge, the intensity of the moment driving him forward. His pace quickened, each thrust more urgent as the sensation grew overwhelming. His breath came in ragged gasps, his grip on Thalia tightening as he chased his own release, the sensation amplified in every touch, every movement. The weight of their connection, the shared energy between them, spurred him on, pushing him closer to the brink with every second.

When he finally came undone, the release hit him like a crash, his body trembling violently with the force of it. The sensation was overwhelming, the magic making every pulse, every breath feel more intense than anything he had ever experienced.
He held onto Thalia tightly, his arm wrapped around her as the moment lingered between them, their bodies still moving in perfect harmony. The connection pulsed between them, heightening every feeling as they both gasped for breath, the intensity of the release still thrumming in the air around them.

Thalia gasped softly, her breath catching as she felt Solas' seed deep inside her, the sensation of their shared release overwhelming her senses. The magic that still coursed through their bodies, leaving her trembling in the wake of their connection. Her chest rose and fell rapidly, their bodies still pressed close as they both caught their breath, the intensity of the moment lingering between them.

For a moment, it was as if the world around them stood still. The room was quiet, save for the faint crackling of the fire and the soft hum of magic that still surrounded them, binding them together in the afterglow. The air felt heavy with the weight of their shared experience, a moment suspended in time as they both basked in the quiet intensity of what they had just shared. The connection between them felt stronger than ever, unspoken but undeniably present in every lingering touch, every breath.

Solas, still breathing heavily, gently loosened the belt from Thalia's wrists, his touch soft and reverent as he removed the restraints. The marks from the binding faded as the magic's effects began to disappear, leaving behind only the memory of the heightened sensations that had coursed through their bodies. Thalia stretched her arms, feeling the return of her usual awareness as the intensity of the spell receded, but the lingering warmth of their connection remained.

Thalia turned to face Solas, her eyes wide with awe. "That was... unlike anything l've ever felt," she murmured, her voice filled with wonder. Her fingers brushed lightly over his chest as if grounding herself after the experience. "What kind of magic was that? The sensations were so vivid."

Solas smiled softly, his hand coming to rest on her waist as they lay side by side.
"It's an old spell, most likely forgotten, one that I came across in my earlier studies. The glyph I cast acts as a conduit for magic, heightening sensory awareness and amplifying physical sensations. It's like a bridge between the Fade and the physical world, allowing us to feel things far beyond what is normally possible." He paused, his fingers idly tracing patterns on her skin. "But it's a delicate balance. Too much of it can be overwhelming, as you experienced."

Thalia nodded, her mind still buzzing from the intensity. "I could feel everything—like my body and spirit were intertwined with the Fade itself." She smiled, a soft chuckle escaping her lips. "I don't think I'll ever be able to fuck you without it again."

Solas chuckled in response, pulling her closer as they settled into the bed. The warmth of the fire crackled softly in the hearth, casting a golden glow over their intertwined bodies. "It's a powerful tool, but one that requires care. Magic is always about balance, as you know-too much can overwhelm, too little can leave it ineffective. That spell, in particular, relies on trust between two people." He paused, his voice dropping to a tender whisper. "I trust you, vhenan, and I'm glad we experienced it together."

Thalia nestled closer to him, her head resting on his chest as his arms wrapped around her. "I trust you too," she whispered, her eyes fluttering shut as the calm settled over them both. "And I'm glad you shared this with me."

They stayed like that, wrapped in each other's arms, the intensity of the night giving way to a soft, comfortable warmth. As they drifted into the quiet of the night, their conversation about magic turned into soft murmurs, the theory fading as they reveled in the simple pleasure of being close. With the magic now gone, the bond between them felt stronger than ever, and they both fell into a peaceful slumber, content in each other's arms.

Chapter Text

It was early morning, and the soft sunlight streamed through the balcony windows, casting a warm glow across Thalia's chambers. The warmth of the sun kissed her skin as she slowly stirred awake, the peacefulness of the day settling over her. It was a rest day—a rare break where no Inquisition work would be done. The entire keep had decided to take a much-needed breather, a day to let the weight of responsibility slip away.

Thalia stretched beneath the warm blankets, her body still soft and relaxed from the comfort of sleep. The morning light filtered in through the balcony windows, casting a soft glow across the room as she extended her arms above her head, feeling the pleasant pull of her muscles. It was one of those rare mornings where she felt no rush, no pressing duties calling her away from the bed. She sighed contentedly, relishing the quiet peace that surrounded her, the world still calm and undisturbed.

As she turned her head to the side, her gaze fell on Solas, who was lying beside her, his breathing slow and rhythmic in the deep embrace of sleep. Her heart swelled at the sight of him like this—so calm, so untroubled by the weight of the world. His face, always so focused and sharp when awake, was soft now, relaxed in a way she didn’t often get to see. A gentle affection bloomed in her chest as she watched him, and she couldn’t help but smile at the thought of how different he seemed in these quiet moments. His usual reserve and careful composure were gone, replaced by the vulnerability of sleep, and it filled her with a sense of protectiveness and warmth.

His expression was almost ethereal in the early morning light, the angles of his face softened by the glow of dawn. His bare chest rose and fell with each steady breath, and the freckles that dusted his skin seemed more pronounced in the soft sunlight. Thalia felt a tenderness toward him that ran deep, deeper than words could express. She marveled at how peaceful he looked, as if all the burdens he carried were, for the moment, forgotten. It was in these quiet mornings that she saw him most clearly—the man behind the mysteries, the one she loved without hesitation.

As her eyes traced the lines of his sleeping form, an idea began to form in her mind, her smile growing mischievous. Today was a rest day, a rare and precious thing, and she intended to make the most of it. Thalia’s heart fluttered with excitement at the thought of giving him a different kind of morning—a slow, tender way to wake up, filled with affection and intimacy. She knew he’d appreciate the gesture, and there was something thrilling about taking control for once, about being the one to make him feel cherished and adored. Yes, she thought to herself, this would be a good morning indeed.

Without making a sound, Thalia shifted closer to him, careful not to disturb his peaceful slumber. She wrapped an arm around him first, pulling herself gently into his side, savoring the warmth that radiated from his body. For a moment, she simply cuddled him, pressing herself against him in a way that felt both comforting and intimate. The steady rhythm of his breathing lulled her into the quiet of the morning, but her desire to rouse him grew, and soon she lifted herself onto her elbows, hovering over him.

Thalia leaned in and began to press soft, featherlight kisses to his skin. She started at his shoulder, her lips brushing gently across the familiar path of freckles that dusted his skin. Slowly, she kissed her way down to his chest, her lips lingering over each freckle, tracing the constellation of marks she knew so well. His skin was warm beneath her mouth, soft and inviting, and she kissed his collarbone, then up the side of his neck, before making her way back down to his sternum. She paused there, savoring the moment, before continuing lower, brushing her lips across his abdomen. It was then that she felt him stir slightly, a quiet rustling as his body began to respond to her touch, and she smiled against his skin, knowing that he was beginning to wake.

Solas sighed contentedly in his sleep, the quiet sound of pleasure stirring from deep within him as Thalia's gentle kisses trailed over his skin. His body responded before his mind was fully awake, his hand instinctively sliding over to rest on her waist, fingers brushing lightly against her bare skin. Her warmth was soothing, the steady rhythm of her soft touches drawing him closer to wakefulness. She continued her delicate exploration, her lips finding new places to kiss along his abdomen, her breath tickling his skin. He stirred slightly under her, his muscles flexing gently as the sensation of her closeness began to seep into his dreams.

When he finally opened his eyes, the hazy blur of sleep gave way to the soft light of morning, and the first thing he saw was Thalia hovering over him. Her lips still pressed softly to his skin, her eyes filled with affection as she kissed his chest. A slow, sleepy smile tugged at the corners of his lips as their gazes met, his hand tightening gently on her waist. "Good morning, Vhenan," he whispered, his voice thick with the remnants of sleep, rough and tender all at once. There was a warmth in his eyes as he looked at her, the kind of sleepy affection that comes only in the quiet moments of early morning, when the world is still just theirs. His other hand moved to brush a stray lock of hair behind her ear, and he let out a soft sigh, content to wake up this way, wrapped in the warmth of her love and the serenity of the dawn.

Thalia smiled down at him, her eyes warm with affection as she whispered, "Good morning, ma vhenan," her voice soft and filled with love. Slowly, she moved from his chest, her lips leaving a trail of lingering kisses as she made her way back up to him.
When their eyes met again, she leaned in, her breath mingling with his as she pressed her lips to his in a gentle kiss. The kiss was slow and languid, a perfect reflection of the quiet intimacy of the morning. Her lips moved tenderly against his, savoring the softness and the connection that passed between them with every touch. Solas responded in kind, his hand tightening on her waist, pulling her just a little closer, as if he wanted to feel her warmth even more deeply. The moment stretched out between them, unhurried and calm, their bodies fitting together naturally, the world outside of their embrace forgotten. Each gentle press of their lips was a reminder of the love they shared, a silent conversation that spoke louder than any words could, and for a long moment, they simply existed in the quiet beauty of it.

Thalia shifted, moving gracefully as she climbed on top of him, her movements slow and deliberate. Her thighs pressed against his hips as she straddled him, feeling the warmth of his body beneath her. The intimate connection between them deepened as her bare skin met his, the soft sheets rustling beneath them. She could feel his body respond almost immediately, the evidence of his morning arousal pressing firmly against her as she settled down. A soft, pleased smile played on her lips as she took in the sight of him-eyes fluttering closed, lips slightly parted, his breath catching in his throat as she sat down on him. The weight of her presence, the warmth of her body, sent a shiver through him that made his grip on her waist tighten.

Solas let out a soft groan, his hands instinctively moving to her hips as if to steady himself. His eyes opened halfway, heavy with the haze of desire, and he looked up at her with a lazy smile. "You certainly know how to make mornings interesting, Vhenan," he whispered, his voice thick with warmth.

Thalia chuckled softly, leaning down just enough to brush her lips against his ear, her breath warm against his skin. "I thought you deserved a little something special today," she murmured teasingly.

Solas' fingers tightened slightly on her hips as he smiled back at her, his eyes darkening with affection and desire. "Then by all means," he replied, his voice low and full of anticipation, "take your time."

He let out a soft groan, his hands instinctively moving to grab her thighs, but Thalia stopped him with a playful grin. "Let me," she whispered, her voice firm but affectionate. She wanted to take control this morning, to let him simply enjoy without having to do anything. Solas closed his eyes, a knowing smile playing on his lips, and he nodded, releasing his grip, moved them back to her hips and sunk back into the pillows, his trust in her absolute.

Thalia shifted her hips slowly, guiding his morning hardened cock inside her with a deliberate, teasing slowness that made them both gasp. The feeling of him filling her was electric, a wave of pleasure that started low in her belly and spread throughout her body. She took her time, allowing herself to adjust to the sensation while savoring the subtle tension in the air between them. Solas' body responded instantly-his fingers flexed against her hips, gripping her tighter, but he didn't move, trusting her to take the lead. His eyes fluttered shut for a brief moment, a deep groan escaping his lips as she continued her slow descent. Thalia could feel every inch of him, the stretch and warmth as they became one, and it sent a shiver up her spine.

Once she had fully taken him in, Thalia braced her hands on his chest, her palms pressing into his warm skin, and began to move, her pace measured and deliberate.
Her hips rolled in slow circles, each motion calculated to draw out the sensation and make it last. Solas' reaction was immediate-his breath hitched, his chest rising sharply beneath her fingers, his muscles tensing as he struggled to stay still. His hands left her hips and fisted into the sheets, gripping them tightly as he fought to control his instinct to thrust up into her. His breath came in ragged, shallow gasps, his eyes half-lidded as he watched her move above him, captivated by the way she maintained control, dictating the rhythm with a slow, intoxicating grace that kept them both on edge.

Each roll of her hips brought them closer, the sensation between them building in waves. Thalia moved with purpose, controlling the rhythm, her eyes locked onto Solas's as he lay beneath her, his hands now gripping the sheets, his chest rising and falling with each breath. She could feel the tension building in him, the way his body responded to her every touch, but she wasn't done yet. She wanted to draw it out, to make the moment last.

Every time she rose and sank back down, the feeling became more intense, her heat gripping his cock perfectly, pulling him deeper each time. His moans became more ragged, his breaths short and shallow, and he couldn't help but arch his hips slightly to meet her movements. The sensation was exquisite, his body caught between the desire to surrender completely and the overwhelming pleasure she was giving him.
Thalia, too, felt the tension mounting, her own moans growing louder as the pleasure built, their bodies perfectly in sync, their rhythm a slow burn that grew hotter with every passing second.

As Thalia moved faster, the tension between them reached its breaking point.
Solas's moans grew louder, his breaths coming in ragged gasps as his body tensed beneath her. His muscles were taut, his chest rising and falling with the strain of holding back, but he couldn't resist the pull of her movements. His grip on the sheets tightened, his knuckles turning white as he fought to maintain control, though he willingly surrendered it to her. Thalia's hips moved with a steady, deliberate rhythm, guiding him closer and closer to the edge, her body a perfect fit against his.
Solas' back arched slightly, his entire form trembling under the intensity of the sensation, the pleasure building until it was almost unbearable.

As the tension built to its peak, Solas's body tensed beneath her, his breaths coming in short, ragged bursts. Thalia felt the shift, the way his grip tightened on the sheets, knuckles white as the overwhelming sensation took hold. And then, with a powerful surge, his release hit-a deep, visceral climax that pulsed through him. She could feel the heat of him filling her, each pulse of his pelvis sending waves of pleasure through them both as he pumped his heat into her. Solas's moans mixed with hers, the rhythm of their bodies slowing only slightly as she continued to move, drawing out every last bit of pleasure, keeping him riding that edge until he was spent. The aftershocks rippled through him, his body trembling beneath hers as he finally relaxed, his grip loosening and his breathing gradually steadying. Together, they sank into the quiet, wrapped in the warmth of their shared release.

She leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to his chin and then his forehead, her fingers gently brushing his cheek as they both lay there, catching their breath. The room was still bathed in the golden light of the morning sun, casting a peaceful glow around them. Solas looked up at her, his lips curving into a soft smile, his eyes brimming with quiet affection and a hint of gratitude. "You certainly know how to make a rest day memorable," he whispered, his voice filled with warmth.

Thalia chuckled softly, her hand resting on his chest as she shifted slightly. "Well, I couldn't let the day start without a proper wake-up call," she teased, leaning down to kiss him once more. Slowly, she lifted herself off of him, her body sensitive to every movement, the feeling of his length slipping from her leaving her with a shiver of heightened sensation. They both let out quiet sighs, the intimacy of the moment lingering as she settled beside him, curling up into his side. Solas wrapped his arm around her, pulling her close, their bodies fitting together naturally as they fell into a comfortable embrace. The warmth of the sun, their shared affection, and the quiet of the morning surrounded them as they returned to a soft, contented cuddle.

Chapter Text

Solas stood quietly at the back of the great hall, observing Thalia as she presided over the day's judgments. She sat on the throne with an effortless grace, her green gown adorned with golden jewel accents and a red sash around her waist that highlighted her commanding presence. Her poise was undeniable; the confidence in her posture radiated strength and wisdom. Solas, ever the quiet observer, held his journal and charcoal in hand, his eyes never leaving her as he sketched. Each stroke was deliberate, a testament to the admiration he felt as he captured her presence on the throne.

The great hall was packed with people, all eyes on the Inquisitor as she passed judgment on the prisoners brought before her. Solas, however, only had eyes for her.
He studied every detail of her form-the way the gown hugged her curves, the glint of gold from her jewelry, and the soft glow of the hall's torchlight on her vallaslin. He admired the way her scars traced over her skin, speaking of battles hard fought, her muscles taut as she held herself with regal authority. Her power wasn't just in her words but in the way she commanded the room without speaking.

It wasn't just her physicality that captured him-it was her power. The strength of her voice as she gave her verdicts, the wisdom in her words, and the subtlety in her gestures that spoke of a leader who knew far more than she let on. Each stroke of the charcoal on his paper captured not just her appearance but her spirit. To him, she was magnificent, a force unlike anything he had ever known. He committed each detail to memory-the way the gown's neckline plunged down to her stomach, revealing her freckled chest and shoulders, her firm but fair manner in delivering justice, the way the golden jewelry danced in the light as she moved.

When the judgments were over and the hall emptied, Solas returned to his workspace in the rotunda. He stood over his desk and opened his journal, reviewing the sketches he had made that day. He couldn't help but marvel at what he had captured-her poise, her elegance, her power. There was something magnetic about Thalia that he could never fully put into words, but with each sketch, he felt closer to understanding it. The way her red hair framed her face, the way her vallaslin danced over her skin-she was an embodiment of grace and strength.

As he studied his work, lost in thought, he didn't hear the soft footsteps approaching behind him.

"Keeping secrets, Solas?" Thalia's teasing voice broke the quiet, and Solas jumped slightly, startled by her sudden presence.

In a moment of panic, he closed the journal quickly and hid it behind his back, thinking it was someone else who had caught him. But when he turned and saw it was her, still dressed in the elegant gown that had captivated him all day, he relaxed, though his heart still raced. The sight of her up close, the curve of her hip outlined by the fabric, the scent of roses wafting from her hair-it was overwhelming.

"Inquisitor," he addressed her formally, a habit in public spaces, even though the urge to call her "Vhenan" was almost overwhelming. "I uh... I wasn't expecting your company."

Thalia stepped closer, her eyes flicking toward the journal behind his back. "I saw you in the hall today, working on something in your journal," she said, a playful curiosity in her voice. "What were you up to?"

"I was merely... observing." He paused, letting his words hang in the air, carefully choosing how much to reveal.

Thalia's eyebrow arched, a playful glint in her eye as she crossed her arms, the motion pushing her breasts together, emphasizing the deep, low-cut neckline of her gown. The green fabric framed her curves, her exposed skin drawing Solas' gaze for a fleeting moment before he could catch himself. The temptation to let his eyes linger, to study every curve of her body, was almost unbearable. The tension between them crackled like wild magic.

"Observing?" she teased, her lips curving in a knowing smirk as she took a step closer. Her gown shifted softly around her legs, the golden accents on her shoulders gleaming under the dim light of the rotunda. Solas' breath hitched subtly, his eyes struggling not to linger on the way her body moved within the fabric, the way the cut of the gown seemed designed to tempt him.

"Observing what exactly?" she continued, her voice light but with a hint of challenge. "It seemed like you were rather focused on your book while I was up there."

Solas swallowed hard, quickly straightening his posture, trying to maintain control as his chest rose and fell slightly faster. He attempted to keep his expression neutral, though his mind was flooded with the sight of her-the way the neckline dipped, how her curves seemed to draw him in despite his best efforts to remain composed.

"I was merely... studying the moment," he replied, his voice almost too steady as his fingers tightened slightly around the journal in his hand, knuckles whitening. His mind was still focused on the visual memory of how her breasts had pressed together with her arms crossed, the pull of fabric on her breasts mesmerizing. He cleared his throat, doing his best to mask the heat that had crept into his skin.

"I was... working, Inquisitor," he said carefully, choosing his words with a precision that masked the underlying sentiment. His tone remained soft, almost reverent, as if there was an unspoken layer of meaning in the simple statement. He was careful not to let his voice betray the admiration, or the way her presence had completely captivated him. "Capturing your essence while you presided over judgment."

His eyes flicked momentarily to the gown that clung to her, but he quickly redirected his gaze, determined not to betray his composure. His words were deliberate, professional on the surface, yet laced with the subtle undertone of admiration that only she could detect. Solas kept his posture tall, his hands clasped behind his back in a way that suggested formality, but the tension in his stance betrayed the careful control he maintained.

With a composed expression, Solas inhaled deeply, calming the heat that had risen between them. With a slow, measured exhale, he presented the journal to her and opened it again, flipping to the sketches he had captured of her. His fingers lingered on the pages for a brief moment before he hesitantly handed it to her, maintaining his professional demeanor.

Thalia took the journal from him, her fingers brushing his in the process, a spark igniting between them. She flipped through the pages, her eyes widening slightly as she realized just how detailed the sketches were. The way he had captured her form, her strength, even the subtleties in her expression—it was as if he had drawn her through his admiration. Her lips parted slightly, a flush spreading across her cheeks as she absorbed the images, her body reacting to his silent worship of her. Heat gathered between her thighs, a slow burn rising as she imagined what he must have thought while watching her.

"Your poise and authority in that moment..." he paused, gathering his thoughts, "It is something worth studying." His eyes glanced toward the journal in her hands, but his mind was occupied with the lingering image of her figure, the way her movements had held him spellbound from across the hall. Yet, he remained composed, ensuring no one in the rotunda or library above could suspect anything more than a professional meeting.

Thalia's eyes flicked between the sketches. The first page showed her on the throne, regal and strong, her vallaslin visible even through the lines of charcoal. The more she flipped through, the more she saw how deeply he had studied her, his drawings capturing every nuance of her being. She could feel his gaze on her, the intensity of it making her skin tingle.

"You have no idea how remarkable you are," Solas said softly, his voice dripping with admiration. "The way you command a room, the wisdom behind every word you speak, the way your strength radiates from within... it is truly a sight to behold."

A warmth spread through Thalia at his words, her core stirring as she thrived off his praise. The tension between them grew as he continued to speak, his voice low, intimate.

"You are more than a leader, Lethalin," he continued, still careful to avoid calling her by her name in public. "You are a force. Your power is unlike anything l've ever witnessed."

Thalia felt a flush rise to her cheeks at his words. His praise was like a warm caress, and she thrived off it. She could feel the tension between them growing, the space between their bodies suddenly feeling much too large. Her breath caught in her throat as she turned another page in the journal.

"You flatter me, Solas," she said softly, though the heat in her voice betrayed how much his words affected her.

"I speak only the truth," Solas replied, his eyes darkening with desire as he stepped closer to her. "You are more than a leader-you are extraordinary."

Solas stood behind her, his chest rising and falling slowly as he tried to compose himself. He clasped his hands behind his back again, attempting to appear composed, but the tightness in his breeches betrayed him. He could feel his arousal building, the sight of her holding the sketches of herself, the way her skin so exposed in the gown-it was almost too much. He cleared his throat, struggling to keep his voice steady. "You are... remarkable, Inquisitor. Powerful. Regal… Beautiful."

Her gaze flicked up to him, her lips curving into a small smile as her heartbeat quickened. She could feel his desire through the tension in the air. She knew the effect she had on him, and it made the heat between her legs even more unbearable. "Is that so?" she asked, her voice lower now, more intimate, though still keeping up the pretense of professionalism.

Solas could barely contain the groan that threatened to escape his lips as she propped herself up on one leg, her butt brushing against his thigh ever so slightly. The subtle touch was like a match igniting a flame. He leaned in just a little, enough for him to catch the faint scent of the oils in her hair-roses, a scent uniquely hers that it drove him wild. His breath hitched, and he whispered, his voice so low it was barely audible, "If only I could show you how your presence... consumes me."

Thalia's breath caught, the knot of desire in her core tightening. She swallowed hard, forcing herself to maintain control, but she couldn't help the way her body responded to his words. She glanced at him, her eyes smoldering as she whispered back, "Solas, if you don't keep your composure, someone in the library might notice."

Solas leaned a bit closer, his lips almost brushing softly against her ear, sending a shiver down her spine as his words took on a different meaning, meant only for her. "Vhenan," he whispered, his voice rough with restraint, "you do not know what you are doing to me." He let out a quiet groan, one that barely escaped his throat, his hands trembling behind his back as he fought the overwhelming urge to touch her. The desire to claim her right there, to press her against the desk and give in to the fire building inside of him, was nearly unbearable. His proximity was intoxicating, and the tension between them thickened, every moment of restraint only adding to the heat that simmered beneath the surface.

"I know exactly what I'm doing," she teased, her lips barely curving into a smirk as she pretended to keep flipping through the journal.

As Thalia turned a page, her breath caught at the sight before her. These sketches were different-more intimate, private. Her bare form captured in delicate, soft lines, every detail meticulously rendered as if Solas had memorized her body by heart. He had drawn her in moments of stillness, her face relaxed in sleep, her hands resting gently at her sides, the anchor on her palm glowing faintly. He had drawn her stretching, the curves of her body accentuated by the fluidity of her movements, and even her doing mundane tasks, each sketch filled with a sense of reverence. There were drawings of her scars, her vallaslin traced in intricate detail, and even sketches of her face without the markings, as though he had imagined what she might look like without them. Every inch of her had been captured with care, as if she were his most treasured subject.

Her cheeks flushed deeply, a warmth blooming in her chest as she processed the intimacy of these images. Thalia's breath hitched, the knot of desire tightening as her fingers lingered over the pages. The way he had drawn her wasn't just an artist capturing his subject-it was something more. She felt exposed, vulnerable, but in a way that made her feel cherished. "Solas..." she whispered, her voice barely above a breath. "You've been drawing me like this... for some time, haven't you?" There was no accusation in her tone, only wonder and awe .

Solas' face and ears turned a deep shade of red, embarrassment flooding him as she flipped through the pages with his more intimate drawings of her. He hadn't meant for her to see those, at least not yet. "I-Thalia..."

But she smiled at him, a knowing, seductive smile that sent another wave of heat through his body. "I'm flattered," she whispered, subtly biting her lip as her eyes scanned another sketch of her bare back, her curves, the way her body seemed to come alive through his art. "I didn't know you were so captivated."

Solas couldn't take it anymore. He leaned in closer again, his lips brushing against her ear as he whispered, his voice dripping with restrained desire, "You captivate me in every way. Every movement, every breath... I have never been so consumed by another."

Thalia's breath hitched, her heart pounding in her chest. She could feel her arousal pooling between her legs, her body aching for him. "Solas..."

"I know," he groaned softly, his voice full of frustration. He wanted nothing more than to act on the desire that was coursing through his veins, but they were in public, with people above them in the library, where one wrong move could expose everything.
His breath was ragged now, his arousal almost painful as he struggled to maintain control. "If we were alone, I would show you just how much I worship you."

Thalia's legs felt weak as she closed the journal and handed it back to him. "You may get your chance... later," she whispered teasingly, before stepping away from him, her hips swaying as she moved. She glanced back at him with a smirk and a wink, the bare skin of her back captivating him, the jewels dancing over her shoulder blades and spine with each step.

Solas stared after her, his throat dry, his hands trembling with desire. He wanted to memorize every detail of her as she walked away, her teasing smirk, the sway of her hips, the confidence in every step. Once she was out of sight, he collapsed into his chair, breathing heavily and ran his hand over his face, his mind filled with thoughts of her. He couldn't wait any longer. Opened his journal again, he quickly began to sketch the image of her walking away, her smirk lingering in his mind as he captured every detail from memory-the way her gown flowed, the way her bare back looked under the low light, the knowing glance she had given him before leaving.

He sighed heavily, knowing that the tension between them would only grow. And yet, the secret of their relationship, the way they had to keep things hidden, only made the moments they could steal even sweeter.

Chapter Text

Amid the grand halls of the Winter Palace in Halamshiral, Thalia Lavellan found herself navigating the intricacies of Orlesian politics while hiding her own dangerous secret. Dressed in an exquisite, revealing green gown, her attire was a far cry from her usual battle-worn armor. The gown’s low-cut neckline left little to the imagination, its fabric hugging her form in all the right places, and the bold red lace mask she wore only heightened the mystery and allure surrounding her. The dress shimmered under the grand chandeliers, drawing all eyes to her, a dazzling sight in a sea of opulence. Every step she took was accompanied by hushed whispers and not-so-subtle glances, the nobility speculating about her bold fashion choice and the daring Inquisitor who now commanded their attention.

Thalia had always been confident, but she couldn’t help but feel out of place amidst the elite of Orlais. The feeling of eyes on her, constantly watching, following her every movement, sent an uncomfortable flutter through her. She had brought along a select few from her inner circle—Dorian, Iron Bull, and Solas, along with her trusted advisors, Cullen, Josephine, and Leliana. She stuck close to them, using their presence as a shield from the overwhelming scrutiny of the nobles. They were her support, her anchor in this world of polished smiles and hidden agendas. Thalia knew she had to rely on their expertise, particularly Josephine, who effortlessly charmed and diffused any potential political minefield they encountered.

Josephine leaned in as they moved through the crowd. “Inquisitor, you’re making quite the impression tonight,” she whispered, her smile warm but her eyes keen as they surveyed the room.

“Good or bad?” Thalia murmured, adjusting her gown with a subtle tug.

“Depends on who you ask,” Josephine replied with a light chuckle. “Though I’d say they’re intrigued, if nothing else.”

Iron Bull, towering over the crowd and clearly enjoying the event far more than Thalia, nudged her lightly. “Don’t worry, Boss. You’re the talk of the palace, and from what I can tell, it’s mostly good talk.” He gave her a wink, his jovial nature easing some of the tension she felt.

Despite the reassurances, Thalia caught snippets of conversations as she passed, whispers speculating on her relationship with Commander Cullen. The rumors that they were involved romantically spread like wildfire among the nobles, and the mere suggestion sent shivers down her spine. Nothing could be further from the truth, but she knew how dangerous rumors could be, especially in Orlesian circles where gossip often held more weight than facts.

Leliana, always perceptive, sidled up to her. “Do not let the whispers distract you, Inquisitor,” she said softly. “They thrive on speculation, but they fear your power.”

Thalia nodded, though the discomfort still lingered. “It’s unsettling,” she admitted quietly. “I’d much prefer fighting demons over this.”

“You’re doing wonderfully,” Cullen interjected, his posture as stiff and formal as always, but his tone kind. “The court is watching, yes, but they are also measuring. And right now, they see strength.”

Thalia smiled weakly. “Strength, yes, but I’m not sure how much of it I have left.”

The night continued, with Dorian frequently at her side, offering commentary on the court’s absurdity with his usual sharp wit. “If I hear one more noble fawning over the Commander as if they have any real insight into your life, I may scream,” he muttered as they approached another group of high-ranking guests.

Thalia chuckled despite herself. “You and me both,” she replied under her breath.

She kept her focus as best she could, mingling with various nobles and dignitaries, each conversation carefully crafted to gain favor or broker future alliances. The whispers and rumors seemed never-ending, and though she was used to handling herself in battle, this kind of confrontation—the political battlefield of Halamshiral—was a different kind of exhausting. She exchanged pleasantries with an Orlesian lord who complimented her gown, while his wife eyed her with a mixture of jealousy and admiration.

“You’ve set quite the standard, Inquisitor,” the lord said smoothly, his gaze lingering on her gown longer than was appropriate. “I dare say the ladies of Orlais will be following your fashion lead for years to come.”

Thalia smiled politely, offering a light laugh. “Perhaps, though I imagine the cold here is less forgiving than my usual attire allows for.”

Josephine quickly interjected, steering the conversation back to less superficial topics, allowing Thalia a moment to breathe.

Trying her best to stay professional, Thalia mingled through the crowd with poise and grace, but there was a constant, distracting presence she could not shake. Solas, disguised as her serving man for the evening, never let her out of his sight. Clad in the black formal attire of the Inquisition, his elven features and servant’s role made him nearly invisible among the glittering Orlesian nobles. None of them spared a second glance at him, focusing instead on the Inquisitor, whose daring gown was already setting the tone for the evening’s gossip. But to Thalia, he was anything but invisible. His presence was electric, sending sparks across her skin with every fleeting glance and subtle touch.

As she weaved through the ornate ballroom, exchanging pleasantries with nobles, her thoughts kept drifting back to him. Solas’ eyes followed her from the shadows, his gaze lingering on the curves of her body, exposed tantalizingly by the low-cut neckline of her gown. His admiration was hidden behind a mask of professionalism, but Thalia could feel the intensity of it like a physical weight. Each time he neared her under the guise of attending to his duties, her heart skipped a beat.

“Inquisitor,” Solas murmured quietly, appearing beside her with a calm, deferential demeanor, his voice smooth and low. “Your gown seems to have shifted slightly.” His hands moved swiftly, subtly adjusting the back of her dress, his fingers grazing her exposed skin as he did so. His touch sent a shiver down her spine, but she kept her expression neutral, tilting her head ever so slightly as if considering something distant in the crowd. “Thank you,” she replied softly, though the warmth of his hand lingered long after he had moved away.

Each time Solas approached her, he maintained his role, always polite, always professional—but his fingers brushed her skin just enough to remind her of the tension between them. He offered her a drink moments later, holding the glass out to her with the same practiced grace he’d been showing all night. “Another drink, Inquisitor? You’ve certainly caught everyone’s eye tonight.”

Thalia accepted the glass, her lips curving slightly at the compliment hidden beneath his formal tone. “It seems so,” she replied, taking a sip of the wine as her gaze met his. “Perhaps a bit too much attention.”

He leaned in slightly, his voice low enough that only she could hear, a teasing edge to his words. “Perhaps they are all wondering when you and the Commander will finally make an announcement. The rumors are rather persistent.”

Thalia scoffed softly, shooting him a sharp look through the intricate red lace mask she wore. “I would’ve thought you to be above such ridiculous gossip,” she muttered under her breath, though the hint of a smirk betrayed her amusement.

“Merely an observation,” Solas said with a faint smile, standing at her side with a posture of servitude, his gaze flicking to the nobles around them, who were still oblivious to their interaction. “It seems the court finds it fascinating to imagine you and Cullen are secretly lovers.” His eyes gleamed with mischief as he continued, “Perhaps you should give them something else to talk about.”

Thalia suppressed the laugh that threatened to escape, her lips curling as she turned her attention back to the room. “I think they have enough to speculate on already,” she said with a quiet chuckle, keeping her voice low.

His fingers brushed her waist briefly as he moved to adjust her gown once more, an act so casual it could never be mistaken for anything more by those watching. But the heat that radiated from his touch was undeniable. She felt her pulse quicken, the teasing playfulness between them barely masked by their professional facades. Solas stepped back into the crowd, his presence never far from her, and Thalia, for all her attempts to focus on her duties, found herself acutely aware of him with every passing second.

Her movements through the ballroom were fluid, her words polite as she exchanged pleasantries with nobles, but Solas’ gaze lingered on her from across the room. The subtle game they played—the teasing touches, the quiet words exchanged just out of earshot from the rest—kept her on edge, her heart racing with every encounter.

As the evening wore on, Solas approached her again, this time with a knowing look in his eyes as he leaned in slightly. “Inquisitor, if I may suggest, there is a quiet hallway near the east wing that you may wish to explore. The artwork there is… quite remarkable.” His voice was neutral, professional, but the meaning behind his words was clear.

Thalia met his gaze, holding it for just a moment longer than necessary. She nodded, her tone equally poised. “Thank you, Solas. I may do just that.” Their eyes lingered on each other for a heartbeat too long, a glance filled with unspoken intent. She quickly filed away his words, understanding the meaning behind them, though her expression remained calm and professional.

With a subtle bow, Solas stepped back into the background, blending seamlessly with the other attendants. Thalia resumed her conversation with the nobility, her voice steady as she engaged in the shallow pleasantries required of her role. Yet, her attention wavered slightly, her thoughts on the lingering promise of their earlier exchange.

Moments later, Thalia realized she no longer felt the familiar weight of Solas’ gaze on her. She scanned the room discreetly, noting that he had disappeared—gone to the place he had discreetly mentioned earlier. Her pulse quickened in response, anticipation building as she continued to maintain her composure in the crowd, waiting for the right moment to excuse herself and meet him in the shadows of the palace.

After mingling for some time, Thalia excused herself, offering a polite smile to the gathered nobles. "If you'll excuse me," she said with a graceful nod, "I seem to have spilled a bit of wine on my skirt. I'll return shortly."

The nobles barely acknowledged her, their attention drifting back to their own conversations as she slipped away. She made her way through the grand halls, her heart pounding in anticipation with each step. The soft click of her heels echoed against the polished marble floors as she moved, the red lace of her mask casting faint shadows over her face.

As she walked, her mind raced. Solas had been watching her all evening, his teasing glances and fleeting touches making it almost impossible to focus on the evening's proceedings. His subtle invitation had been clear, and now, as she moved through the halls, she couldn't deny the excitement that buzzed beneath her skin.

She turned a corner, finding herself in a quieter wing of the palace. The chandeliers cast a dim glow over the ornate decor, and the moonlight filtered in through tall windows, casting silver streaks on the floor.

Thalia's breath hitched slightly as she neared the hallway Solas had mentioned. The paintings that adorned the walls were beautiful, but her thoughts were elsewhere, focused on the man who had all but disappeared into the shadows.

As she passed a large pillar, she was suddenly pulled into the shadows by a firm hand. Her back pressed against the cold stone as she gasped softly, her heart leaping in her chest. There, in the dim moonlight filtering through the grand windows, stood Solas. His grip was gentle yet unyielding, and his piercing gaze locked onto hers with an intensity that sent a shiver down her spine.

His eyes, dark and filled with longing, met hers. "Do you have any idea how stunning you are tonight?" he murmured, his voice low and husky. His hand moved to her waist, his touch firm but careful.

Thalia smirked, teasing despite the rapid flutter of her heart. "I think everyone in there already made that clear," she whispered. "But you... you've been watching me all night, haven't you?"

Solas leaned closer, his lips grazing the curve of her neck. "How could I not?" he whispered, his breath warm against her skin. "Every time I looked at you, in that dress, it's... difficult to remember my place."

She let out a soft breath, biting her lip as her body instinctively reacted to his closeness. "We shouldn't do this here..." Her words came out weak, betraying the resolve she was trying to muster. She knew it, and so did he. The thrill of being so close, hidden in the shadows of the Winter Palace, only fueled the growing need between them.

Solas' hand moved up, his touch light but deliberate, as he placed an index finger under her chin, tilting her head up to meet his gaze. The intensity in his eyes made her pulse quicken. His thumb slowly stroked her lower lip, the intimate gesture causing her breath to hitch.

"We should make this meeting quick then," he murmured, his voice low and teasing, laced with a desire that was barely contained.

The sensation of his thumb brushing against her lips sent heat rushing through her.
She could feel the strength of his control, but also the dangerous edge of what they were playing with. His lips hovered close, teasing but not quite touching. Every fiber of her being wanted to close the distance between them.

Without a word, his lips were on hers, his body pressed tightly against hers as if he couldn't bear to be apart from her any longer. The kiss was deep, hungry, and his tongue pressed past her lips, tasting her, claiming her.

Solas' hands roamed over her body with deliberate, practiced ease, finding their way beneath the revealing cut of her gown as though they belonged there. One hand slipped up to cup her breast, his thumb brushing teasingly over her already hardened nipple through the delicate fabric. The other hand slid down the smooth curve of her thigh, the slit in her gown giving him full access to explore her heated skin.

Thalia moaned softly into his mouth, her breath hitching as she tried her best to remain quiet. But the intensity of his touch, the way his fingers grazed her in all the right places, made it almost impossible to stifle the sounds of her pleasure. Her body responded instantly to his caresses, her chest rising and falling rapidly as she struggled to catch her breath.

The design of her dress, meant to entice and provoke, now felt like it was crafted specifically for this moment. Solas seemed intent on indulging every inch of her exposed skin, his fingers pressing and teasing in ways that made her body tremble beneath his touch. The thrill of being hidden in plain sight, the danger of discovery, only heightened her arousal. She bit her lip to hold back another moan, but the fire inside her was growing harder to contain.

Solas' hand lifted her thigh effortlessly, hooking it around his hip as he pressed his hard length against her through his pants. The pressure and heat of him against her sent a rush of desire surging through Thalia's body. She gasped quietly, her lips parting as she struggled to keep herself from making a sound. The feeling was almost overwhelming-the tension between them had been building all night, and now, pressed together in the shadows, it felt impossible to resist.

His hips pushed against her, the friction drawing a soft moan from deep in her throat that she quickly swallowed, biting down on her lower lip to keep quiet. Her fingers tightened around his shoulders, gripping the fabric of his coat as she arched into him. Each movement, each touch, was deliberate and controlled, but the urgency beneath it all was palpable.

Solas leaned in, his breath hot against her ear as he whispered, "I need you, Vhenan." His voice was rough with desire, his restraint barely holding. As he spoke, his hand reached under the thigh propped up on his hip. His fingers found her bare skin, gripping her ass firmly, pulling her closer until there was no space left between them.

The sudden possessiveness of his touch sent a jolt through Thalia, her breath hitching as she struggled to keep her composure. The pressure of his hardened length pressing against her core was maddening, and she could feel herself unraveling, her body responding to every subtle movement.

Her hand slipped down between them, deftly undoing the fastenings of his trousers.
As her fingers wrapped around his length, Solas let out a quiet groan, his head dropping to her shoulder as the sensation overwhelmed him. His hips instinctively bucked into her hand, the movement desperate and full of hunger.

"Vhenan..." His voice was a ragged whisper, barely able to contain the tension thrumming through his body. The cool night air contrasted sharply with the warmth of their bodies pressed together, heightening every touch, every sensation. Thalia stroked him slowly, teasingly, watching his composure slip further with each motion of her hand.

Solas' breath came in shallow bursts as his grip on her tightened. His hand squeezed her ass again, pulling her even closer, pressing his hips harder against her.
"You have no idea what you do to me," he growled softly, his breath hot against her neck.

But they couldn't waste time-they couldn't afford to let the moment stretch on too long. With quick, practiced movements, Solas moved the fabric of her gown aside, pulling her small clothes down just enough to give him access. Thalia, her breath hitching in anticipation, pushed his trousers down just enough to free him.

Without warning, Solas slipped into her, his hand gripping her ass harder while the other gripped her waist, pulling her flush against him as he thrust his cock into her with a restrained but powerful rhythm. Thalia bit her lip hard, placing a hand over her mouth to muffle the moan that threatened to escape, the feeling of him inside her overwhelming. Each thrust pushed her harder against the pillar, the cold stone a sharp contrast to the heat building between them.

Her body clung to his, her fingers digging into his shoulder, desperate for something to hold on to as he drove deeper. Solas groaned low in her ear, the quiet sound sending a shiver through her body. The feeling of his cock stretching her, filling her completely, consumed every thought, every sense. She could barely breathe, barely think, as his hips moved relentlessly against hers, pushing her further and further up the pillar with each thrust. The thrill of being caught only heightened the intensity, their shared desire a dangerous, intoxicating flame.

The only sounds were the soft rustling of their clothes, the scrape of Thalia's jewels dragging against the stone as they slid up and down with each thrust, and the faint, rhythmic meeting of their bodies. The sensation of the cold pillar and the weight of the jewels grinding against her back only heightened her awareness of Solas' heat.
Thalia's head fell back against the pillar, eyes closing as she surrendered to the relentless friction between them.

"Solas..." she whispered breathlessly, her body tightening around him as she neared her release.

He groaned softly, his forehead resting against her chest as he thrust deeper, faster.
"You feel... incredible," he murmured, his voice low and rough with need.

The pressure built between them, their breaths mingling in the small space between the pillar and their heated bodies. Thalia's hand pressed harder against her mouth as her climax hit, her body trembling as she tried to remain silent. Her muscles clenched around him, the waves of pleasure crashing through her, making her whole body shudder. She bit her lip to stifle the moan that threatened to spill out, her grip tightening on Solas' shoulder as her knees weakened under the intensity of her release.

Moments later, Solas followed, his restraint shattering as he thrust deep into her one last time. His release spilled into her, his groan muffled against her chest as he clung to her, his hands trembling from the overwhelming force of it all. His fingers dug into her ass and waist, anchoring them together as his breath came in ragged gasps. The feeling of her warm body against his, their forbidden closeness in this hidden corner of the Palace, made the moment all the more electric.

They stayed like that for a moment, their bodies still entwined, breath mingling in the cool air of the hallway as they both clung to the remnants of their shared passion.
Solas pressed gentle kisses along Thalia's neck, his lips lingering on her skin as the intensity of their secret moment began to ebb away. He could feel her pulse still racing beneath his mouth, both of them suspended in the aftermath of their risky rendezvous.

Reluctantly, Solas began to pull away, his hands loosening their grip on her waist and thigh. Slowly, he withdrew his cock from her, a soft moan escaping both of their lips at the sudden loss of contact, the cool air rushing between them. Thalia shivered, not just from the cold but from the sudden absence of his heat. She bit her lip as she felt him leave her, her body still humming from the intensity of their encounter.

With quiet efficiency, they adjusted their clothes, smoothing out every wrinkle and carefully restoring their appearances. Solas, always attentive, assisted Thalia as she tidied her gown, his hands brushing over the fabric to ensure there was no sign of their recent passion. Once everything was in place, he discreetly handed her a kerchief to clean herself before she slipped her small clothes back on. Neither of them wanted any evidence of their tryst to betray them to the prying eyes of the Winter Palace.

Thalia smirked as she took the kerchief, her lips curving upward in amusement. “Always so prepared,” she whispered, her tone laced with praise as she cleaned herself. There was a glint of admiration in her eyes, both for his thoroughness and for the quiet intensity of their shared moment.

Solas offered her a faint, knowing smile in return, his gaze warm as he helped her with the final adjustments to her gown. “I must serve you well, Inquisitor,” he replied softly, the professionalism in his voice barely masking the affection beneath it.

“Well, you’ve been quite the excellent servant tonight,” Thalia teased, a playful smirk on her lips as she straightened her gown and adjusted her small clothes.

Solas grinned in response, his eyes twinkling with mischief. With a dramatic flourish, he bowed deeply before her, the gesture perfectly respectful yet filled with an underlying warmth. “I live to serve, Inquisitor,” he replied smoothly, his tone laced with hidden meaning as he gently lifted her hand and pressed a soft kiss to the back of it.

Solas straightened, his gaze meeting hers briefly before he spoke, his tone returning to a more professional cadence. “You must return to the ball, Inquisitor. They’ll be wondering where you’ve gone,” he said softly, the weight of their secret settling between them once more. Without another word, he slipped into the shadows with practiced ease, his presence fading as he returned to his role as a silent, unseen servant.

Thalia took a deep breath, steadying herself as the rush of their shared moment ebbed away. With her heart still pounding, she adjusted her mask and smoothed out her gown one last time before stepping out of the secluded hallway. She re-entered the ballroom, her poise and grace intact, no one the wiser to the secret passion that had just unfolded in the shadows.

Chapter Text

The path winding through the woods was dimly lit by the last rays of the setting sun, the sky painted in hues of crimson and orange, obscured by the Frostback mountains looming over them. They had just descended from the mountain pass after leaving Skyhold, and their path now led toward the Hinterlands, a familiar region. Thalia and Solas had ventured from the camp where Varric and Iron Bull were putting up their tents and resting. They headed out to gather herbs and elfroot for their dwindling supply. The woods were silent but for the occasional rustling of leaves, and the cool air carried the faint scent of pine and earth as they walked side by side.

They wore only light armor, their staves strapped to their backs in case they encountered danger in the wild, though unlikely. The path was uneven, but they navigated it with ease, the sound of their footsteps muffled by the earth. As they moved further from the campsite, the trees grew denser, casting long shadows over the forest floor. Solas gradually drifted closer to Thalia, his hand eventually resting possessively on her waist, a subtle gesture of protection that felt instinctual rather than deliberate.

As they gathered the herbs, bending down to pluck elfroot from the ground, Solas’ fingers would brush against hers as they both reached for the same bundle. His touch was fleeting but deliberate, sending a spark through Thalia each time their hands connected. When his hands weren’t hovering close to hers, he helped her pack the herbs into her pouch, his knuckles grazing her side as he tucked bundles of elfroot into the pouch strapped to her waist. The contact was subtle but intentional, lingering longer than necessary, and Thalia could feel his eyes on her, the heat of his gaze almost as palpable as the weight of his hand on her.

Thalia noticed the shift in his demeanor, the way his fingers curled slightly into the fabric of her tunic, pulling her closer with every step. A smirk tugged at her lips as she glanced up at him. "Feeling a little protective tonight are we?" she teased lightly, her voice holding the familiar playfulness she often used with him. As she spoke, she slid her own hand around his waist, their bodies moving in sync as they continued walking together through the forest.

Solas glanced down at her, his eyes dark with something more than just affection.
"It's difficult not to be," he murmured, his voice low. His grip on her waist tightened slightly, the sensation sending a shiver up her spine. "Especially when l've noticed one particular commander... staring at you with less-than-honorable intentions." His voice took on a sharper edge, the words laced with thinly veiled frustration. "And those flirts he throws your way. You return them all too easily."

Thalia raised an amused brow. "Cullen?" she asked, her smirk growing wider. "He's harmless. Besides, we both know he's not really my type." Her voice was teasing, but she couldn't deny the small thrill that shot through her at the idea of Solas being jealous.

Solas didn't share her amusement. "Harmless or not, it doesn't stop him from looking at you the way he does. And since we're not public knowledge," he continued, his tone hardening as he spoke, "there is nothing I can do about it." His hand moved from her waist, pulling her shirt up lightly and sliding his hand under it to rest against the warm skin beneath. His touch was possessive, his fingers digging in slightly as if to remind her of who she belonged to.

Thalia's breath hitched at the sudden warmth of Solas' hand on her bare skin. Her pulse quickened as his fingers brushed at her waist, sending a shiver of anticipation down her spine. The possessiveness in his grip ignited something deep inside her, a mix of thrill and desire she couldn't suppress. Her body instinctively leaned into his touch, craving more, her skin tingling with the need for contact. Despite the chill in the air, a heat spread through her core, intensifying with each subtle movement of his hand.

She let out a soft, teasing laugh, biting her lip as she turned her head slightly to glance at him. "What's wrong, Solas? Afraid he might steal me?" Her voice was laced with amusement, but her body betrayed the lightness of her words, responding eagerly to the possessiveness in his touch.

Solas halted their walk, his eyes locking onto hers with an intensity that made her breath catch. Without a word, he removed their staves first, tossing them carelessly to the side. Then, with deliberate movements, he untied the pouch from her waist and discarded it beside the staves. His hands, rough but deliberate, grasped the hem of her shirt and tugged it up from her breeches, exposing her stomach to the cool evening air.

Before Thalia could fully process what he was doing, Solas knelt in front of her, his movements deliberate and controlled. He leaned in, his breath hot against her skin, and bit into the flesh of her waist. The sensation sent a shock through her system, a mixture of pain and pleasure that made her gasp, her body instinctively arching toward him. The bite left a sharp, red mark behind, and Thalia's fingers curled into the fabric of his tunic, her breath shaky as a surge of desire coursed through her. Solas' teeth grazed her skin once more before he left another mark on her other side, his possessiveness clear in each deliberate movement.

His lips lingered there for a moment before he slowly rose to his feet again, his hands still holding her firmly by the waist.

Thalia chuckled softly as Solas rose up, her eyes locking with his. In that moment, she saw something primal in him—an intensity she hadn't seen before, a hunger that sent a thrill through her. Her lips curled into a wicked grin, her breath coming in shallow pants as she teased, "Maybe I should let Cullen flirt with me more often if this is how you react." Her voice was playful, but there was a challenge behind her words, daring him to respond, to prove that she was his.

Solas’ eyes darkened at her words, and before Thalia could say anything more, he pushed her back against a nearby tree with a force that knocked the breath from her lungs. The impact sent a jolt of surprise through her body, and for a brief moment, a flicker of fear flashed in her eyes. She had never seen him like this, this feral intensity, this possessive aggression. His hand gripped her chin, tilting her face up to meet his gaze as he leaned in close, his breath hot and heavy against her face.

“Don’t. You. Dare,” he growled, his voice laced with a dangerous edge. The primal hunger in his eyes was unmistakable, and the raw possessiveness in his tone sent a shiver down her spine. Thalia could feel the tree’s rough bark pressing into her back, but it was nothing compared to the way Solas’ presence pressed into her, consuming her every thought and sensation.

She was pinned in place, unable to move, and despite the hint of fear, the thrill of his dominance stirred something deep within her.

Thalia, never one to back down from a challenge, smirked up at him. "Or what?" she whispered, her voice breathy as her body pressed back against the tree. She could feel the tension in his body, the restraint barely holding back the primal desire coursing through him.

Solas' face darkened at her challenge, his brows furrowing as his control slipped.
Without warning, he claimed her lips in a bruising kiss, his teeth grazing her lower lip with just enough force to send a thrill through her. His mouth moved down her jawline, leaving a trail of heat in its wake, before settling on her neck. There, he bit down, his teeth pressing into her sensitive skin, drawing a sharp gasp from her lips.

His aggression was palpable, every movement deliberate and charged with an intensity she had never felt from him before. The calm, collected Solas she had known seemed to vanish, replaced by something primal, something instinctual. As his lips found her pointed ear, he bit down just hard enough to make her gasp again, the sharp sting mixed with pleasure.

She could feel his breath, hot and ragged against her skin, and with every bite, every touch, he staked his claim on her, leaving no doubt in her mind about the possessive fire burning inside him. Thalia's heart raced as she let him have his way with her, her hands finding their way around his neck. She draped one arm over his shoulder while the other grasped at the back of his neck. Her head tilted back against the tree as she let out a soft moan, barely more than a whisper, her body responding eagerly to his possessive touch.

Solas' breath grew ragged as his lips trailed down her neck and shoulder, biting and kissing her with an intensity that left her breathless. He tugged at the string of her breeches, loosening them with swift precision before sliding them down just enough to expose her pelvis. His movements were purposeful, filled with an animalistic hunger that both excited and unnerved her.

His hand moved to the back of her thigh, gripping her ass tightly, his nails digging into her skin with a possessive growl. The roughness of his touch made her gasp, the primal energy between them sparking hotter with every second. His body pressed against hers, and the world around them seemed to fade, leaving nothing but the heat between them as Solas gave in to instincts he never let surface.

"Mine," he murmured low against her skin, his voice a hushed growl, his control barely restrained.

Solas made quick work of his own breeches, the urgency in his movements palpable as he freed himself. Pressing her harder against the tree, his hand gripped her thighs, pulling her legs up to wrap around his waist. Thalia's heart raced, a mixture of excitement and the faintest flicker of fear. There was something primal in his eyes, something raw that she'd never seen before, and it sent a thrill through her despite the uncertainty.

His cock, stiff and ready, pressed against her, his body flushed with heat as he leaned in, his breath hot against her ear. "You. Are mine," he growled possessively, his voice low and filled with a dangerous edge. The words sent a shiver down her spine as he bit lightly just below her ear. The possessiveness in his tone, the way his nails dug into her flesh-it all made the tension between them electric, each moment thrumming with primal energy.

Thalia's hands gripped his shoulders as he held her firmly in place, her body reacting to his every touch, her breaths coming in short gasps as she surrendered herself to him.

Solas' hands gripped her thighs with primal strength, his fingers digging into her skin as he thrust his rock-hard cock into her folds without warning. The sudden sensation sent a sharp gasp tearing from her lips, her body jolting against the tree as he filled her completely. Thalia's back arched involuntarily, the rough bark digging into her skin as the intensity of the moment took over.

Her head hit the tree, her eyes wide open as the shock of the sudden invasion mixed with overwhelming pleasure. The muscles in her core spasmed around him, her body responding to the sheer force of his need. Slick heat and wet coated him as he moved, the friction of his body against hers electrifying, every thrust driving her harder into the bark, the feral nature of their connection fueling the storm between them.

Solas' thrusts grew harder, each slap of their bodies meeting echoed in the quiet wilderness, primal and relentless. His grip on her ass tightened, his fingers digging into her as though claiming every inch of her. His growl was low, reverberating against her skin as his teeth grazed her collarbone, biting down harder than before.

The possessiveness in his movements was undeniable. "Ara'lin emma dirth," he growled, the words slipping from his lips, laden with feral need. Thalia let out a moan, louder than intended, the pleasure overwhelming her.

Solas' response was swift. His hand shot up to her face, gripping her cheeks firmly but not enough to hurt, his palm silencing her. His fingers pressed into her skin, tilting her head so her eyes met his, a fire burning in his gazes.

"Shhh," he warned, his voice a low rumble, raw with dominance and desire. "We don't want the others to hear us."

Despite the sharpness of his words, his hips never slowed, his pace remaining as brutal and demanding as before, his body driving into hers relentlessly. Thalia's muffled moans were now trapped under the weight of his palm, her body pinned between him and the tree, each thrust sending waves of heat coursing through her.

Solas' eyes never left hers, watching every reaction, every twitch of her face as she fought to contain her pleasure.

The forest around them had faded away, leaving only the sensation of Solas claiming her, marking her as his in a way that no one else could see. The primal nature of it all-the bites, the growls, the way his body moved against hers-made her heart race even faster.

Solas' pace became erratic, each thrust more desperate than the last as his cock drove deeper into her, hitting her cervix with an almost punishing rhythm. His hips slammed against hers with a raw, primal intensity that sent her body spiraling toward the brink. The heat between them grew unbearable, the friction and force of their union pushing Thalia closer and closer to the edge.

Her grip on him tightened, fingers digging into his shoulders as her legs wrapped more firmly around his waist. Every muscle in her body tensed as she fought against the overwhelming need to moan, her breath quickening and becoming frantic as it came out in sharp, shallow bursts through her nose. His palm remained firmly over her mouth, stifling the sounds of her impending release, while his fingers pressed hard into her cheeks, keeping her pinned.

Thalia's eyes widened, the raw sensation of him filling her again and again sending her closer to losing control. The muffled sounds of her panting grew more desperate, her body trembling as her climax approached. She bit down on her lip as her breath quickened, drooling against his palm as she tried to moan through the pressure of his hand. Her body shook, her muscles tightening around him, her inner walls spasming as she hovered at the edge, desperate for release.

Solas growled low against her ear, feeling her body tighten around him, sensing how close she was. His own control was slipping, but he held on, his thrusts becoming harder, more possessive. He wanted to feel her come undone, to know that despite the control he exerted over her, she was lost to the pleasure he was giving her.

With one final, powerful thrust, Thalia's body surrendered to the overwhelming pleasure. Her climax hit her like a wave, crashing through her in uncontrollable spasms. Her muscles clenched tightly around Solas, her back arching against the tree as she trembled violently in his grip. Her moans, though muffled by his palm, were desperate and breathless, her lips parting against his hand as drool spilled past them.

Her nails dug deep into his back, leaving red trails underneath his tunic of her intensity. Her eyes, wide from the force of her release, fluttered before rolling back as the ecstasy consumed her. Solas, feeling her tightening around him, kept up his relentless pace, thrusting into her with deep, controlled strokes that dragged her climax out longer. He growled against her skin, his own restraint hanging by a thread as he felt her come undone beneath him.

Her body convulsed with each thrust, every pulse of pleasure wracking through her until she was left gasping for breath, her body quivering against his as the intensity of her release.

Solas' pace grew more erratic, frantic as Thalia's release pushed him closer to his own edge. With a powerful thrust, he buried himself deep inside her, his cock pressing against her cervix as his seed spilled into her. His groan was low and guttural, muffled against her neck as his body shuddered violently from the intensity. His teeth sank into her shoulder in a fierce bite, the need to claim her one last time driving his actions as his body shuddered violently from the intensity of his climax.

As his seed shot into her, hot and tick, Solas continued to thrust, dragging out the pleasure for as long as he could. Each movement sent another wave of sensation through his body, prolonging the heat of his release as it filled her insides completely. His grip on her tightened, fingers digging into her skin with possessive urgency, desperate to savor every second of the moment.

With a final, trembling slow thrust, buried deep against her cervix, Solas stilled against her, his body spent yet thrumming with the lingering traces of pleasure. His teeth remained at her skin, savoring the connection between them.

Thalia felt Solas' cock pulse deep inside her, every throb sending a wave of warmth through her as his seed filled her, simmering in her core. As his teeth remained buried in her shoulder, the sharp pressure grounding her in the moment, while his nails dug into the soft flesh of her ass and the delicate skin of her cheeks. Their connection was raw, each sensation amplified by the intensity of their union.

Their breaths were heavy and labored, mingling in the cool air between them.
Thalia's chest heaved as she tried to catch her breath, her body trembling slightly from the overwhelming sensations. The bark of the tree pressed into her back, but all she could focus on was the heat of Solas pressed against her, his closeness both comforting and overwhelming.

Solas finally released his grip on her shoulder, his teeth leaving behind red indents on her skin, and a slick trail of drool clung to the bite mark. He leaned in and kissed the mark he had left, a gentle apology for the primal act moments before. Slowly, he released her face, his fingers relaxing from where they had pressed into her cheeks. Thalia gasped, finally free to draw a full breath, her chest rising and falling rapidly as she regained control of her breathing.

Solas shifted, resting his hand firmly on her thigh while the other still gripped her ass cheek, his possessive hold never faltering. His lips trailed along her skin, from the freshly kissed mark on her shoulder, up the side of her neck in a series of soft, heated kisses. He paused at her ear, letting his breath tickle her before continuing to her jaw, his lips lingering on her skin as she shivered under his touch.

Finally, his lips found hers, capturing them in a kiss that was both tender and fierce.
Thalia's breath hitched again, still trying to regulate herself, but her lips parted instinctively as Solas slicked his tongue into her mouth, deepening the kiss. The taste of him mingled with her ragged breaths, their intimacy rekindled even in the aftermath of their primal release, neither could get enough of the other.

Solas wanted to consume her entirely, his desire still burning even after their shared release, but he forced himself to let go of their kiss. His brows furrowed in frustration and need as he rested his forehead against hers, his breath ragged and uneven.
Despite the momentary pause, he couldn't resist the pull of her warmth. With a sudden, deliberate thrust, he pressed into her again, his body unwilling to leave the comfort of her heat.

The unexpected movement sent a sharp gasp from Thalia's lips, her back arching slightly against the rough bark of the tree. But the surprise quickly gave way to a soft chuckle, a mix of pleasure and amusement escaping her as she tilted her head back, meeting his intense gaze. The tension between them still hummed in the air, their shared intimacy deepening with every moment.

They stayed like that for a moment, their bodies pressed together as they caught their breath, the primal fire slowly fading into the cool air of the night. Solas pressed a soft kiss to her lips, lingering there as he breathed her in.

After a few moments, Solas reluctantly pulled himself out of her, both of them releasing soft groans at the sudden loss of connection. The warmth they had shared now replaced by the cool evening air. His seed mixed with her slickness, dripping out from her down onto the grass beneath them, the evidence of their passion a stark contrast to the quiet forest around them.

Solas carefully held Thalia upright, his hands still firm on her thighs as she lowered her legs from his hips, her feet finally touching the ground again. Her legs felt shaky, but he kept her steady, their breathing still heavy as they slowly regained their composure.

Solas’ gaze traveled over the dozen bite marks he had left on her shoulder and collarbone, his eyes lingering on each one with a mixture of pride and guilt. The small, red imprints of his teeth were stark against her skin, and the two marks on her waist stood out even more prominently. He was undeniably pleased with himself, but a hint of apology flickered across his face as he gently ran his thumb over the mark on her waist, tracing it with a tender touch.

His breath was still ragged as he met her gaze, the primal possessiveness from earlier now softened by concern. “I may have been a little… excessive,” he murmured, though his tone held no real regret. His thumb continued to stroke the mark, as if trying to soothe the skin he had claimed.

Thalia's lips curled into a smirk as she caught her breath, the remnants of her release still making her body tremble. "Excessive? Maybe just a little," she teased, her voice hushed but laced with satisfaction. She leaned into his touch, her body still humming with the thrill, her eyes glinting with playful mischief. "But don't worry, I'll make sure Cullen doesn't get away with the flirting anymore." Her tone was teasing, but her meaning was clear-she wouldn't let anyone else think they could have her attention. Not after this.

Solas raised an eyebrow, a satisfied smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. “Good,” he replied, his voice still thick with the possessiveness that had overtaken him earlier. His hand moved to cup her cheek, his thumb brushing gently against her lips.

Solas gently adjusted Thalia's clothes, his touch now careful and soft despite the intensity that had overtaken him only moments ago. His hands moved over her body, ensuring the marks he had left were hidden beneath her shirt, his possessive streak not forgotten. Once satisfied, his gaze met hers-dark with satisfaction and pride.
The primal hunger had eased, but the claim was still there, simmering in his eyes.

With a firm yet gentle grip, he grabbed her chin, puffing up her cheeks, tilting her face up toward his, and kissed her once more. It was slow and deliberate, filled with the weight of unspoken promises. "Mine," he whispered against her lips with a smirk, the single word carrying all the intensity of his earlier actions.

Chapter Text

Solas sat in his tent, the distant sounds of the campfire crackling outside, mingling with the laughter and chatter of his companions. He had intended to read—the book lay open in his lap, its words blurred and forgotten—but he hadn’t turned a page in what felt like hours. His thoughts had wandered, pulled irresistibly toward her. Thalia. How had she come to occupy every corner of his mind? It was maddening, the way she consumed him so entirely, leaving little room for reason or focus.

Through the canvas of the tent, her voice carried clearly, sharp and bright as it always was. She was talking to Dorian and Sera, her words punctuated by her occasional bursts of laughter. He couldn’t make out the specifics of their conversation, though bits of it trickled in.

“Honestly, Sera,” Thalia was saying, her tone playful yet exasperated, “you can’t just steal someone’s hat and call it ‘redistribution.’”

“Can if it’s an ugly hat,” Sera quipped back, her voice full of mischief.

Dorian’s voice joined in, smooth and amused. “If the hat’s truly that offensive, it may have been an act of mercy.”

Thalia’s laugh followed, warm and infectious, drawing a faint smile to Solas’s lips despite himself. He knew they were discussing something inconsequential—likely one of Sera’s chaotic escapades—but he couldn’t bring himself to care about the subject. It wasn’t the words that held him captive. It was her voice. Every syllable was a note in a song that only he seemed to hear, weaving its way through his mind and lodging itself deep within his chest.

He closed his eyes, letting the sound of her voice wash over him, the way her tone shifted with her words—light and teasing one moment, commanding and fierce the next. He could picture the way her lips moved as she spoke, the slight quirk of her mouth when she smirked, or the furrow of her brow when she was deep in thought. His heart clenched, and he couldn’t decide if it was longing or frustration that filled him more.

For all her small stature, she had a presence that demanded attention. How could someone so small hold so much energy, so much force within her? She seemed to burn brighter than the fire that crackled outside, her fierce spirit igniting everyone around her. And yet, it wasn’t just her strength that drew him. It was her warmth, her laughter, her very being. She was unlike anyone he had ever known, and it was both exhilarating and terrifying.

The book slipped from his lap, forgotten as he laid down onto the bedroll, her voice still echoing in his mind.

The moment he closed his eyes, her image appeared. Her fiery red hair, her bright red eyes that seemed to see straight through him, her smile that held both mischief and strength. It wasn’t just her beauty that plagued him—though it was undeniable. No, it was her energy, her presence. She was small in stature, barely reaching his shoulders, yet she carried herself with the ferocity of someone twice her size. How could someone so small command so much space in his heart and his thoughts?

He tried to shake her from his mind, to banish the thoughts that clung to him like shadows, but it was futile. No matter how hard he tried to focus on the present or coax himself into sleep, his thoughts always circled back to her. He thought of her during training, the way her muscles moved beneath her skin with precision and power, each motion a testament to her strength and grace. Her training clothes left little to the imagination: loose pants tucked into leg wrappings that reached her knees, a green sash tied snugly around her waist, a blue breast band that accentuated her toned upper body, and leather forearm braces that framed her movements perfectly. Her torso was almost entirely bare, exposing the contours of her muscles and every intricate curve that made her form so striking. It wasn’t just the beauty of her body that captivated him but the confidence she carried in it, the fierce energy that radiated from her every step.

Her vallaslin seemed to enhance everything about her, the markings sweeping over her skin like art designed to draw the eye to all her features. They framed her face with regal strength, wrapped around her arms like roots of her heritage, and when she moved, they seemed alive, accentuating every shift of her muscles, every stretch and stride. He thought of the beads of sweat that clung to her brow as she trained, the determination in her bright red eyes, the fire in her spirit. That fire burned through his thoughts now, and no amount of resolve could extinguish it. She was a force of nature, a presence that consumed him completely, and the more he tried to push her away, the more vivid she became.

For a split second, his mind wandered to that one morning in Skyhold, a memory as vivid as if it had just happened. They had been training together in the crisp mountain air, her movements sharp and calculated, her fiery spirit unrelenting. He remembered the moment she had managed to tackle him, his back hitting the cold stone ground beneath them. She had her knee pressed against his chest, her staff poised at his neck, the triumphant smirk on her face framed by the faint glow of dawn. Her breath had been heavy, warm, and tantalizing as it brushed against his face, a stark contrast to the biting chill around them. The weight of her, the energy radiating from her victorious posture, had stirred something in him that morning, a feeling he hadn’t been able to shake since.

He shook his head, startled back to the present. The memory had lingered too long, the sensations too vivid, and he realized his breath was as uneven as it had been that morning. He turned onto his side, exhaling deeply as he willed himself to let go of the thoughts that consumed him. But even as he closed his eyes and tried to fall asleep, the image of her remained, vivid and undeniable, etched into the fabric of his mind.

As he lay on his side, Solas found his thoughts drifting to earlier that day, to a moment that had lingered in his mind since it happened. They had been setting up camp after a grueling fight with a group of Templars, one of whom had managed to strike Thalia across her back with a sword. The wound had been deep, bleeding heavily, and he had immediately gone to her side to tend to her. His magic had helped close most of it, the green glow of his healing spell illuminating her pained but resolute features. Despite the tension in the air and the exhaustion settling over the group, she had smiled at him, her lips curling softly as she whispered her thanks.

After handing a healing potion to her, he still needed to wrap her shoulder to ensure the wound wouldn’t reopen. As his fingers worked delicately, securing the bandage, he couldn’t help but feel the warmth of her skin beneath his touch, the strength of her muscles even as she winced from the pain. Her voice, soft and filled with gratitude, lingered in his ears, and when she smiled at him again—small but genuine—it sent an ache through his chest that had nothing to do with the events of the battle. It was in that moment, with the light fading and the camp beginning to settle, that he realized just how much space she had claimed in his mind and heart. No matter how he tried, he couldn’t push her away. Not when she smiled at him like that, not when she looked at him as though he were something more.

How did she make him feel this way? Why was she the one who managed unraveled him?

He thought back to the kiss they had shared in the Fade. It had been fleeting, a single stolen moment amidst the chaos, but it had stayed with him, lingering in his thoughts like a brand. Her lips-soft, warm, and entirely irresistible-had ignited something deep within him, something that refused to be ignored. The memory replayed itself over and over in his mind. How they had pressed together, her breath mingling with his, her fingers brushing against his cheek. It hadn't been enough. It would never be enough. He imagined what it would feel like to kiss her again, slower this time, with the world around them forgotten. His chest tightened at the thought, and he shifted uncomfortably on his bedroll, the ache of longing twisting within him.

Her face swam before his mind's eye, every detail of her etched into his thoughts. The elegant slope of her jawline, her cheekbones kissed by the sun, the slight curve of her button nose that made her look even more mischievous when she smirked. His gaze drifted lower in his imagination, tracing the column of her neck and the delicate hollow of her throat, where her pulse would quicken beneath his lips. He thought of her collarbones, the faint sheen of sweat that might collect there after …. and the swell of her chest, strong yet soft, a contradiction that drove him mad with desire. His breathing quickened as his thoughts wandered further. He pictured the curve of her waist, the toned muscles of her stomach, every line and dip accentuated by the vallaslin that adorned her skin. His mind lingered on her thighs-powerful and graceful-and then her butt. Fenedhis, her butt. The memory of how it moved, how it seemed to defy logic with its perfection, sent a sharp pulse through him.

He shifted again, now fully aware of the heat and tightness in his breeches, his body betraying him. He clenched his fists at his sides, trying to regain control, but the images of her wouldn't leave him. How could someone so fierce and small hold such power over him? How could she, with her fiery spirit and unstoppable energy, bring him to his knees with a single glance or memory? He exhaled shakily, closing his eyes tightly and trying to banish the thoughts, but it was useless.

She was in every corner of his mind, consuming him entirely, and he wasn't sure he wanted her to leave.

solds groaned sorty, shitting again as the tightness in his breeches became impossible to ignore. His hand hovered hesitantly above his lap, caught between the warring forces of restraint and desire. His rational mind urged him to stop, to focus on his duties, on the greater purpose that loomed ahead. But the memory of her-the curve of her lips, the fire in her eyes-was too powerful, too consuming. His resolve crumbled as he allowed his hand to drift downward, fingers brushing over his cock, the contact sending a jolt through him.

With a deep, shuddering breath, he gripped himself firmly, the tension in his body both unbearable and exhilarating. Closing his eyes, he let the image of her flood his senses again. The thought of her, so vivid and unrelenting, sent a shiver through him, and he surrendered fully to the pull she had on him, his breath quickening as he began to move.

He imagined her in his tent, straddling him, her bare form illuminated by the faint, flickering glow of the campfire outside. Her hands gripped his shoulders, strong yet tender, as her nails grazed his skin. He pictured her leaning in close, her lips brushing against his ear as she whispered his name, her voice sultry and commanding, sending a shiver down his spine. His mind crafted every detail-the way her breath would tickle his neck, her fiery red hair spilling over his chest, her bright eyes fixed on him with an intensity that left him powerless.

He saw her fingers trailing down his chest, nails scraping lightly as they moved lower, igniting a fire beneath his skin. Her lips moved from his ear to his neck, planting soft, deliberate kisses that became hungrier as they descended. She would bite him, leaving marks he would wear with pride, her teeth grazing the sensitive skin of his throat before trailing down his collarbone. One hand would hold his chin, tilting his face so she could claim his lips in a deep, passionate kiss, while her other hand explored him further, tracing the lines of his body with maddening precision.

Solas groaned against his palm, his other hand stroking himself with increasing urgency, the rhythm matching the frantic pace of his imagination. His mind conjured her touch, the way her hands would slide over his body, her hips rocking against him with perfect precision. He imagined her whispering wicked promises into his ear, her breath hot against his skin, her lips curling into a teasing smirk as she took him apart.

The thought of her bare thighs straddling his hips, the weight of her pressing him into the bedroll, and the feeling of her hands guiding his brought him closer to the edge. His breathing turned shallow, his chest rising and falling in quick gasps as he tried to stifle his moans against his hand, the pressure of his palm muffling the desperate sounds threatening to escape. The vivid image of her leaning forward, her lips ghosting over his, whispering, "You're mine, Solas," sent him reeling. His strokes became more frantic, the fantasy of her overwhelming him completely as he surrendered to the pleasure consuming him.

Solas' strokes grew more frantic as the vision of her consumed him, her commanding presence an intoxicating blend of strength and seduction. He could hear her voice, low and teasing, in his mind, each word dripping with dominance.

"You're mine, Solas. Look at me. Don't you dare close your eyes. You'll see who owns you." The imagined weight of her words made him shudder, his body betraying him completely as his restraint crumbled into nothing.

A whispered moan broke past the barrier of his palm, her name spilling from his lips like a confession. "Thalia..." He pressed his hand harder against his mouth, stifling any more sound from him. But the pressure forced his mind deeper into the fantasy. In his vision, she leaned down to kiss him, her lips firm, passionate, claiming every breath he had left to give. He could feel her heat enveloping him, her body pressing him into the bedroll, her nails grazing over his chest as she murmured his name against his lips. The thought of her control, the command she held over him, sent his mind reeling.

He could almost feel her weight on him, her thighs gripping his sides as she moved.
Her body rose and fell in perfect rhythm, the imagined sensation of her core gripping him driving him to the edge of madness. His hand moved in sync with the vision, stroking himself as if it were her body, her heat, pulling him deeper into her. Her bare form loomed in his mind's eye, every curve accentuated by the flickering light of a campfire. Her breasts moved with every rise and fall of her hips, the mesmerizing sight leaving him powerless to do anything but watch and surrender.

His eyes rolled back into his head as the vision overwhelmed him. The imagined sight of her above him, commanding, breathtaking, sent shivers down his spine. Solas bit down on his lip to stifle another moan, his breath ragged as he tried to keep quiet, the desperate sounds of his pleasure threatening to betray him in the stillness of the camp. Every imagined word, every movement, every touch dragged him closer to the precipice, leaving him completely at her mercy-even if only in his mind.

The image of her finding her release consumed him, the imagined sound of her moans echoing in his mind. He envisioned the way her body would tremble above him, her core tightening around him as she gasped his name. The thought of her losing herself to pleasure, the sight of her flushed cheeks and trembling thighs, drove him to the edge. Her imagined movements grew more frantic, and he could almost feel the pulse of her release against him, sending him spiraling further into his fantasy.

Solas groaned into his palm, his body tensing as the vision overtook him completely.
His strokes quickened, frantic and desperate, until his release finally overwhelmed him. His cock throbbed in his hand, his spill warm against his palm and soaking into his small clothes. He bit down on his lip, stifling the groan that threatened to escape, his body shaking with the intensity of the moment. As the tension ebbed from his body, he lay there for a moment, his chest heaving, still consumed by the image of her in his mind-radiant, powerful, and utterly irresistible.

The image of her began to fade from his mind, leaving behind the faint echo of her imagined voice and touch. As clarity seeped back into his thoughts, Solas realized the conversation outside his tent was still ongoing. Relief washed over him-no one had any idea what had just transpired within the privacy of his tent. He lay on his bedroll, chest heaving, the weight of his actions pressing down on him as he stared at the fabric of the tent above.

He slowly let go of his mouth, his palm marked faintly by his teeth from the effort of stifling his moans. Drawing in deep breaths, he tried to calm the rapid thundering of his heart. His other hand still gripped his length, his body trembling slightly from the lingering intensity of his release. Solas exhaled shakily, loosening his fingers from his now-softening cock, and lay still for a moment, his mind struggling to reconcile the passion he had just indulged with the reality of what had stirred it.

With a heavy sigh, Solas wiped his sticky hand on the underside of his bedroll, his movements deliberate and quiet to ensure no sound gave him away. The soft murmur of conversation outside continued, a reminder of how close the others were and how easily his private moment could have been discovered. The thought made his cheeks flush faintly with embarrassment. He sat up slowly, his muscles tense, before rising to his feet, his fingers hesitating as they brushed the waistband of his soiled small clothes.

He peeled them off with a quiet groan, the cool air in the tent brushing against his flushed skin, making him acutely aware of his exposed state. Standing half-naked in the dim light, he felt a pang of self-consciousness. Even alone, the weight of what he had just done lingered. He reached into his pack, pulling out a clean pair of small clothes, and dressed quickly, eager to regain some sense of composure. The soiled garments were tucked deep into the bottom of his pack, hidden beneath layers of clothes and supplies. As he smoothed his tunic back into place, he closed his eyes for a moment, taking a deep, steadying breath.

As he finished tucking the soiled small clothes into the bottom of his pack, a burst of laughter drifted into his tent from outside. Thalia’s laugh—bright, melodic, and unrestrained—cut through the quiet of his solitude, stirring something deep within him once more. He froze, his fingers still gripping the edges of his pack, and closed his eyes, breathing deeply to steady himself.

Her voice seemed to dance on the air, mingling with the others’ chuckles, but it was hers alone that captivated him. He inhaled deeply, trying to calm the thrum of his racing thoughts and the lingering heat that her image had ignited within him. Even after such a private moment of release, she still had a hold over him, a pull that refused to loosen. Letting out a slow exhale, he shook his head and sat back down on his bedroll, determined to compose himself.

But even as he tried to compose himself, his mind returned to her. To her fiery spirit, the way her smile lit up the campfire’s glow, and how she could make him laugh in a way that felt utterly foreign to his carefully guarded heart. The way she made him feel—happy, despite the heavy burden he carried—was something he hadn’t anticipated. She had consumed him entirely, every thought, every fleeting moment of peace. He knew there was no escaping her pull, no denying how deeply she had rooted herself in his very soul.

As he settled back into his bedroll, staring up at the tent, his thoughts swirled in restless circles. Should he tell her? Should he confess the storm of emotions she had unleashed within him? Could they even have a relationship, given the lies he lived by and the truths he was too afraid to share? He was the greatest adversary in her mythology, the architect of the very chaos she sought to stop. How could he reconcile these feelings with the crushing weight of who he was? And yet, how could he not? How could he continue to hide this when every part of him yearned for her—to hold her, to love her, to be consumed by her? The questions hung heavy in the air, unanswered, as his heart warred with his mind.

Solas closed his eyes, exhaling deeply. Tomorrow, he would see her again. Tomorrow, he would stand by her side as always, protect her, watching as she fought with the strength of a warrior twice her size. And tomorrow, he would wrestle with the same questions, the same longing. For now, though, he let her image consume him one last time, her voice, her laugh, her smile carrying him into restless dreams.

Chapter Text

Thalia twisted under the blankets, her body shifting to find a comfortable position that never came. The moonlight spilling through her window illuminated the room in a soft glow, highlighting the familiar shapes of her desk, wardrobe, and the small table where a half-empty mug of tea sat untouched. Despite the warmth of her bed, she felt cold—an emptiness creeping in that she couldn’t shake.

Her mind drifted, as it often did in the stillness of the night, to him. Solas. The way his voice softened when he spoke to her, the way his touch steadied her even in the most chaotic moments, the way he had become the one place she felt truly seen. She turned onto her side with a huff, her hands gripping the edge of the blanket. He hadn’t come to her tonight. He always came to her on nights like these when her heart was too heavy and her mind too loud. But not tonight.

She stared at the empty space beside her, the ache of his absence heavier than she wanted to admit. Where are you? she wondered, her mind painting a thousand possibilities—most of them involving him losing himself in research again. A small, frustrated sigh escaped her lips as she sat up, the cool air brushing against her skin. She couldn’t stay like this, tangled in her thoughts and emotions, waiting for a knock that wouldn’t come.

Throwing off the blanket, Thalia reached for the robe draped over the couch beside her bed, wrapping it tightly around herself. The soft fabric of her nightdress brushed against her thighs as she tied the sash firmly, a small shiver running through her at the chill of the stone floor beneath her feet. If Solas wouldn’t come to her, she would go to him.

Skyhold was bathed in moonlight, its halls eerily silent save for the occasional echo of boots from the patrolling guards. Thalia moved quietly, her bare feet making little sound as she padded through the stone corridors. She nodded politely to the few guards she passed, their expressions neutral but slightly curious at the sight of their Inquisitor wandering the halls at this hour. Her steps were purposeful, driven by a need to see him, to pull him out of whatever thoughts had consumed him so thoroughly that he had forgotten her.

Skyhold’s great hall stretched before her, empty and cloaked in moonlight that spilled through the tall, arched windows. The vast space, so often filled with voices and the bustle of activity, was now eerily quiet, her footsteps the only sound as she crossed the cool stone floor. The banners that hung high above swayed faintly, their colours barely visible in the dim light. Thalia’s eyes drifted briefly to the throne where she often passed judgment, its polished surface reflecting the silvery light. The silence felt almost sacred, a reminder of the burdens she carried.

As she reached the door to the rotunda, she paused, leaning slightly against the stone frame as her eyes found him. Solas stood with his back to her, one hand braced against the desk, his other holding a piece of parchment. His posture was tense, his head bowed in concentration as the flickering candlelight cast soft shadows across his form. The desk and the floor around it was cluttered with open tomes, scattered notes, and a faint smell of ink and wax.

Thalia allowed herself a moment to watch him, the familiar ache of longing tugging at her chest. He looked tired, the weight of his thoughts pressing down on him as always. She stepped forward, carefully closing the door behind her, her voice soft as she broke the silence. “At this point, I’m starting to think you’re trying to solve every mystery in Thedas before sunrise.”

Solas startled slightly, glancing over his shoulder. When he saw her, a small, almost imperceptible smile flickered across his lips before he straightened, setting the parchment down. “Inquisitor,” he said softly, his voice laced with fondness despite his attempt to remain neutral. “What are you doing here at this hour?”

“I could ask you the same thing,” she replied, crossing the room and circling around the desk to stand opposite him. She rested her hands lightly on the edge of the wood, her gaze flicking to the chaotic spread of his notes. “Any luck in solving the mysteries of the ancient world?”

Solas let out a quiet chuckle, the sound tinged with exhaustion as he leaned back slightly, his hands braced against the desk. “Perhaps,” he replied, his tone wry. “Though the ancient world seems determined to keep its secrets.”

“Maybe,” she said, her eyes flicking back to his. “But I think, you might stand a better chance if you didn’t look like you were about to collapse from exhaustion.”

He raised a brow, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. “I assure you, Inquisitor, I am quite capable of managing my own wellbeing.”

Thalia tilted her head, her gaze sweeping over him with an appraising look. “Oh, really?” she countered, her tone light but laced with sarcasm. “Because you look about one sleepless night away from toppling over into that pile of books.”

Solas chuckled softly, shaking his head as he folded his arms across his chest. “I appreciate your concern, but I assure you, I’m far more resilient than I appear.”

She leaned forward slightly, resting her hands on the desk as she arched a brow. “Resilient, maybe. But even the most stubborn of people need rest, Solas. I’ve seen fresher faces on soldiers who’ve marched for days.”

Solas huffed softly, shaking his head as his lips twitched into a faint smile. “Your concern is touching, though misplaced,” he said, his tone wry. “I can assure you, I’ve faced far greater trials than a few late nights.” His eyes lingered on her for a moment, his expression softening. “Though I suspect you won’t let me win this argument.”

Thalia laughed softly, the sound warm and intimate despite their attempts to maintain a professional distance. Her fingers traced lazy patterns along the edge of the desk, her gaze flicking between his scattered notes and his face. “You’ve been keeping to yourself more than usual,” she remarked, her tone light but with a subtle undercurrent of curiosity. “Should I be worried I’ve done something to offend you?”

Solas’ eyes lifted from the desk, softening as they met hers. “Never,” he replied quickly, his voice quiet but certain. “You are… never a source of offense.”

“Good,” Thalia said, a faint smile tugging at her lips. “Because I was starting to think you’d decided to avoid me altogether. It’s been…” She paused, her fidgeting fingers lingering on the edge of a tome. “…difficult to sleep lately. Quiet nights feel a bit emptier than usual.”

Solas straightened slightly, the flicker of understanding in his gaze unmistakable. “Emptier,” he echoed, his voice dropping into a softer tone, though there was no hiding the flicker of guilt in his expression. “I have been… preoccupied.”

Thalia tilted her head, leaning closer as though scrutinizing him, the soft glow of the candlelight catching the playful curve of her lips. “Preoccupied?” she whispered, her voice low enough to carry only between them. “Is that your excuse for leaving me to battle sleeplessness alone?” she teased, her smile gentle but edged with genuine feeling. “I thought you were far too considerate for that.”

As she shifted closer, her robe slipped just slightly off her shoulder, revealing a smooth expanse of freckled skin. Her movements were deliberate, her hands tracing the edge of his desk with feigned absentmindedness, the subtle arch of her back drawing attention to the soft fabric of her nightgown clinging to her form. The casual nature of the gesture, paired with her teasing tone, sent a ripple of tension through the air between them.

Solas’ sharp eyes immediately noticed the shift, his breath catching almost imperceptibly as his gaze flicked to her exposed shoulder. His jaw tightened, and his hands curled into loose fists against the desk, as if grounding himself. The soft, teasing glow in her eyes only deepened the ache that had already stirred in his chest. “Inquisitor,” he murmured, his voice a warning laced with something deeper—desire mixed with restraint.

She tilted her head innocently, though the glint in her eyes betrayed her. “Yes, Solas?” she asked, her tone light but her proximity anything but casual. Her robe slipped a little further as she leaned even closer, the faintest smirk tugging at her lips as she added in a whisper, “You’re awfully quiet for someone who always has an answer.”

Solas swallowed hard, his violet eyes locking onto hers as he steadied himself. “You are far too bold for someone standing in a public space,” he replied, his voice low and husky, though his attempt at reproach was betrayed by the heat in his gaze. His hand reached out instinctively, brushing against the fabric of her robe as though to fix it, but he stopped short, his fingers lingering just above her skin.

“And yet,” Thalia murmured, leaning into his hand ever so slightly, “you haven’t asked me to stop.”

Solas exhaled sharply, his restraint teetering on the edge. He leaned closer, his lips hovering just above her ear as he whispered, “You test my resolve, Inquisitor. Be careful, or you may find it breaking.” His tone was both a warning and a promise, his breath warm against her skin, and she couldn’t help the shiver that ran through her at his words.

Thalia’s lips curved into a soft, mischievous smile, her breath hitching for just a moment before she tilted her head slightly, allowing his warm breath to linger on her skin. Her hand moved closer to his, their fingers brushing faintly against the desk, though she didn’t take his hand outright. Instead, her voice came as a teasing whisper, low and intimate, meant only for him.

“Maybe that’s the point,” she murmured, her eyes flicking up to meet his, her expression both playful and bold. “I’m trying to see how far I can push you before you… break.” The emphasis she placed on the last word was deliberate, her voice carrying a quiet challenge that made her intentions unmistakable.

Her gaze stayed locked on his, watching as his jaw tightened and the flicker of desire in his eyes deepened. Thalia leaned back just slightly, allowing the moment to stretch, her body still close enough to his that the faint scent of her skin—wild roses and something uniquely hers—was impossible to ignore. Her robe shifted again, the edge slipping just slightly further down her arm, and she let it, her fingers lightly tracing the grain of the desk’s wood as though daring him to react.

Solas straightened up, pulling his hands away from the desk as he visibly composed himself. His expression was controlled now, the sharp lines of his face carefully neutral, but Thalia could see it—the wildness lingering in his eyes, the tension in the corners of his mouth that hinted at his struggle to maintain control. He cleared his throat softly, his voice calm, though there was an unmistakable undertone of heat as he began to speak.

“These runes,” he said, gesturing to the scattered notes and open tomes on the desk, “are part of an ancient network of glyphs meant to channel energy across elven sanctuaries. Their purpose, I suspect, was not unlike the Veil itself—a barrier between what is seen and what lies behind.” His tone was smooth, professional, but there was an edge to it, a subtle inflection in his words that made the double meaning unmistakable.

Thalia’s lips curved into a smirk, her gaze fixed on him as she tilted her head slightly. “A barrier, you say?” she murmured, her voice low and laced with teasing curiosity. “And what happens when that barrier… weakens?”

Solas’ eyes flicked to hers, his gaze sharp and deliberate. “When the barrier weakens,” he said slowly, his voice dropping just slightly, “what lies beneath begins to spill through. Often uncontrollably.” He allowed the words to hang in the air for a moment before continuing, stepping away from the desk and beginning a slow, measured walk around it.

Thalia didn’t move, her body remaining still save for her hand, which idly traced along the grain of the desk, her gaze following him as he circled. She caught the way his eyes lingered on her, how his sharp focus betrayed his feigned indifference. When he reached the far side of the desk, only a few steps away from her, she shifted, letting the other shoulder of her robe slip down her arm. The thin strap of her nightgown followed, sliding lazily down her skin, leaving the bare curve of her shoulder exposed to the candlelight.

Solas paused mid-step, his eyes catching the motion, but he didn’t falter. “These glyphs,” he continued, his tone still perfectly measured, “require precision to interpret. A single misplaced symbol could alter their meaning entirely. The key lies in careful observation… and restraint.” His words carried weight, layered with meaning as his gaze flicked up to meet hers, the controlled fire in his eyes unmistakable.

Thalia’s smirk deepened, her body turning slightly to face him more fully as she leaned her hip casually against the desk. “Restraint can be difficult, though, can’t it?” she said softly, her tone teasing but her gaze steady, locked onto his. “Especially when faced with something… unpredictable.”

Solas’ lips twitched, his faint smile betraying the tension he worked so hard to hide. “Unpredictable,” he echoed, his voice quieter now, his steps resuming until he stood directly in front of her. “That is one word for it.”

Thalia held his gaze, her breathing steady despite the pounding of her heart. She could feel the heat radiating from him, the barely restrained desire simmering beneath the surface of his carefully composed demeanor. “And you?” she asked, her voice almost a whisper, her fingers brushing faintly against the edge of the desk. “How good are you at keeping those barriers intact, Solas?”

His response was immediate, his voice low and laced with something raw. “Better than I would like to be.”

The space between them crackled with tension, their unspoken desires weaving a fragile thread between professionalism and something far more dangerous. Thalia let her robe slip just a little further, the fabric barely clinging to her arms now, daring him to break the very restraint he prided himself on. Solas’ gaze flickered downward, but he didn’t move—yet. The moment stretched, both of them acutely aware of how close they were to crossing a line neither could uncross.

Thalia shifted with deliberate grace, turning to lean the back of her thighs against the desk. Her hands rested on either side of her, fingers curling around the edge of the wood for support as she tilted her head slightly, exposing the elegant line of her neck and the smooth, freckled skin of her shoulders. Her robe hung precariously, teasingly, the strap of her nightgown slipping further as she raised a brow at him, her smile soft yet edged with challenge.

“Would you like to risk breaking the barrier, Solas?” she asked softly, her voice carrying a sultry undertone that made the air between them feel heavier, warmer. Her gaze locked onto his, unflinching, her body language a mix of boldness and invitation.

Solas paused, his sharp eyes narrowing slightly as if weighing her question with mock consideration. In truth, his thoughts were elsewhere, his ears attuned to the faintest sounds outside the rotunda. The library was silent, the quiet hum of the spies’ headquarters far above completely still, save for the caw of the crows. He listened for the echo of footsteps, the creak of hinges—anything that might signal they were not alone.

There was nothing. Only the soft crackle of torches and the sound of their breathing.

Confident they were safe, Solas moved forward with deliberate purpose, his footsteps quiet but unhurried. He stopped directly in front of her, his eyes darker now as they traced her form, his gaze lingering on her bare shoulders before flicking back to her face. Without a word, he placed his hands on the desk on either side of her, his fingers brushing lightly against hers as he leaned in. His movements were slow, controlled, his face mere inches from hers.

Thalia felt her breath catch, her heart pounding as she instinctively leaned back slightly, teasingly retreating as his presence overwhelmed her. Her smirk deepened, her head tilting slightly to maintain eye contact, daring him to come closer. The heat radiating from him was palpable, and the way his body caged her in sent a shiver down her spine.

Solas’ voice, when it came, was low and laced with a dangerous edge. “I think,” he murmured, his lips curving into the faintest smirk, “that I would very much like the thrill of risking it.” His gaze held hers as he spoke, the weight of his words wrapping around them like a veil, sealing them in their shared secrecy.

The rotunda seemed to shrink around them, the rest of the world falling away as Solas leaned closer still. His fingers tightened slightly on the edge of the desk, his knuckles brushing hers as if daring her to move, to break the moment. Thalia didn’t move; she stayed exactly where she was, her body humming with anticipation as his breath ghosted over her skin.

The tension between them was electric, the line they were about to cross so thin it was nearly invisible. Thalia’s chest rose and fell with shallow breaths, her lips parting slightly as she held his gaze, her own resolve trembling but unyielding.

Before Thalia could respond, her lips parting to form the words, Solas closed the space between them with a sudden, overwhelming intensity. His lips captured hers, silencing her with a kiss that was both possessive and desperate, as though he could no longer bear the tension that had built between them. His hands moved from the table to cradle her face, his fingers threading into her hair as his thumbs brushed the curve of her cheeks.

Thalia gasped softly against his mouth, her fingers tightening on the edge of the desk before instinctively moving to his waist. The weight of his body pressed against hers, firm yet careful, and the heat of his touch sent a shiver racing down her spine. Solas leaned further into her, his movements fervent and unrelenting as though he were afraid to let her go.

The edge of the desk dug into the backs of her thighs as Solas stepped closer, his hands gripping her hips with purpose. With a fluid motion, he easily lifted her onto the desk, his strength leaving her breathless. The movement sent books and parchment scattering to the floor, their soft thuds barely registering as their bodies aligned seamlessly. Solas stepped between her legs, his presence overwhelming as he leaned into her, his lips claiming hers with fervor.

Thalia let out a soft gasp, slipping her arms free from the sleeves of her robe and wrapping them tightly around his neck. Her fingers tangled together at the back of his head, pulling him closer as their kiss deepened. His grip on her waist was firm, grounding, as the chaos of the fallen books and papers faded into the background, forgotten in the haze of their shared intensity.

The desperation in Solas’ movements was palpable, his normally measured control entirely absent. He kissed her as though the world might end at any moment, his breaths coming in shallow gasps between the fervent presses of their lips. Thalia responded in kind, her body arching into his, the robe pooled around her waist.

Her legs instinctively wrapped around him, anchoring him to her as his hands roamed her sides, his thumbs brushing the thin fabric of her nightgown. The kiss deepened, his tongue brushing against hers in a rhythm that sent sparks through her body, leaving her dizzy and wanting.

Solas moved his kisses from her lips to her cheek, his breath warm against her skin, before his teeth grazed her jaw in a light, teasing bite. The soft gasp that escaped Thalia’s lips only spurred him on, his mouth continuing its descent along the curve of her neck and down to her collarbone, each kiss purposeful and reverent.

His hands, firm but gentle, slid further down her sides, his fingertips brushing over the soft fabric of her nightgown before slipping underneath. The warmth of his touch trailed up her thighs, his palms caressing the bare skin with an intimacy that made her shiver. Solas pressed closer, his lips finding the exposed skin above the neckline of her nightgown, the kisses growing more deliberate as he worshiped her with every touch.

Thalia arched into him, her hands tightening around his shoulders as her breathing quickened. The sensation of his lips and hands working in tandem unraveled her, the delicate line between restraint and desire crumbling with every soft brush of his mouth against her chest. Solas, ever attuned to her reactions, let his hands linger, his thumbs tracing slow, deliberate circles along her thighs as he kissed her skin as though it were sacred.

Solas paused, his lips lingering against her skin before pulling back, his eyes meeting hers with a flicker of mischief and unspoken desire. Slowly, deliberately, he knelt before her, his hands sliding down her thighs as he settled himself on the floor. Thalia’s breath hitched as he reached for the hem of her nightgown, lifting it with practiced ease to reveal her bare skin. The absence of her small clothes made him pause, his gaze darkening with both surprise and approval.

A knowing smirk tugged at the corner of his lips as he glanced up at her, his expression teasing yet filled with reverence. He leaned forward, pressing a gentle kiss to her knee before beginning a slow, tantalizing ascent up her inner thigh.

Thalia’s body tensed under the delicate weight of his kisses, her fingers clutching the edge of the desk for support as each press of his lips sent a spark of electricity coursing through her. Solas moved with precision, his hands sliding up to grip her hips gently, holding her steady as he continued his trail upward. The warmth of his breath against her sensitive skin made her shiver, her breath coming in soft gasps as anticipation coiled tightly within her.

When his lips finally reached her core, he paused, letting his breath ghost over her before placing the softest, most reverent kiss there. Thalia trembled, her legs threatening to give way as a sharp gasp escaped her lips. Solas hummed softly, a sound of satisfaction and devotion, as he pressed closer, his hands tightening on her thighs to keep her steady. Each movement was careful, deliberate, as though he sought to unravel her completely while savoring every moment of her surrender.

Solas’ lips pressed against her folds, soft and unhurried, his movements deliberate as he savored the warmth of her. He started slowly, his tongue tracing along the sensitive skin with reverence, parting her folds gently. The first flick of his tongue against her most sensitive spot drew a sharp gasp from Thalia, her hips jerking instinctively toward him, seeking more.

He responded to her movements with a low hum of approval, the vibration sending shivers through her. His tongue moved with precision, alternating between slow, languid strokes and quick, teasing flicks that left her trembling. When he began to suck gently, his mouth creating a rhythm that matched the heat building within her, she let out a breathless moan, her body arching as she gave herself over to the sensation.

Thalia leaned back slightly, her weight supported by her hand holding her up on the desk, but her other hand found its way to the back of his head. Her nails dragging lightly against the skin on his scalp as her hips moved in rhythm with his kisses. The combination of his tongue and lips, the way he seemed to know exactly where to focus, left her gasping his name in broken whispers.

Solas’ grip on her thighs tightened, anchoring her to him as he adjusted his angle, his tongue pressing deeper as he explored every reaction she gave him. He was relentless yet patient, his movements guided by her gasps and the way her body responded to him. When he flicked his tongue against her most sensitive spot again, then sucked lightly, her hips bucked, and her grip on his head tightened.

Her breath came in shallow gasps, her body trembling as the pleasure built to an almost unbearable peak. Solas didn’t relent, his focus unwavering as he drove her closer to the edge, his hands and mouth working together to unravel her completely. Thalia’s head tilted back, her lips parting in a breathless moan, her nails dragging along his scalp again as her hips moved in rhythm to his relentless attention.

Solas’ lips curled into a smirk against her skin as he released one of her thighs, his hand sliding with purpose. Thalia’s breath hitched, her body tensing in anticipation as his fingers brushed teasingly against her entrance. Slowly, with the same precision he’d shown with his tongue, he began to press a single finger into her core.

The sensation earned a sharp, shivering gasp from her, her hips instinctively bucking to meet his hand. Her nails on his scalp tightened its grip as she tried to stifle her moans, her voice coming out in breathless whispers, but the intensity of his touch made it difficult to stay quiet.

Solas paused briefly, glancing up at her flushed face with a playful glint in his eyes. He pressed a gentle kiss just above her sensitive nub before smirking. “Shhh, vhenan,” he murmured teasingly, his voice low and edged with amusement. His actions spoke volumes as he added a second finger, stretching her gently as he moved them in slow, deliberate strokes.

Thalia whimpered, her body trembling under his touch, her thighs threatening to close around him but held steady by his free hand. Solas curled his fingers inside her, pressing against the sensitive spot that sent jolts of pleasure through her, and she let out a broken cry, quickly biting her lip to muffle the sound. He grinned against her skin, clearly satisfied with her reaction, before pressing a third finger into her, filling her completely.

Her breath came in shallow gasps as he began to move his fingers in and out of her, his pace slow at first, then gradually quickening as he felt her body respond. At the same time, his lips returned to her clit, kissing and sucking with maddening precision. His tongue flicked and circled the sensitive bundle of nerves, each motion perfectly timed with the thrust of his fingers.

Thalia’s body writhed beneath his touch, her hips jerking to meet the rhythm he set. She struggled to keep quiet, her hand gripping his head as though it were the only thing keeping her tethered. The combination of his fingers and his mouth was overwhelming, her entire body trembling as he worked her closer and closer to the edge. The tension coiled within her, ready to snap, as her moans grew softer but no less desperate. Solas, ever attuned to her, continued with unwavering focus, determined to push her completely over the brink.

Solas’ fingers curled deeper inside her, his movements precise as he arched them just right, brushing against the spot that made Thalia gasp and tremble. He flicked his fingers side to side, the pressure and rhythm relentless yet controlled, coaxing her body to its peak. His tongue never ceased its work, licking and lapping at the slickness that coated her core, tasting her as though her pleasure was his greatest reward.

Thalia’s breaths became shallow, her hips jerking uncontrollably as the heat in her core built to a breaking point. She tried to steady herself, her nails dragging along his scalp, but it was futile. The way Solas worked her—his fingers, his tongue, the low hums of satisfaction he let out against her—left her utterly undone.

And then it snapped.

A sharp cry escaped her lips as her body convulsed, waves of pleasure radiating outward from her core, leaving her shivering and writhing beneath his touch. Her legs trembled, her thighs squeezing around him as her back arched, the intensity overwhelming. Solas didn’t stop, his tongue continuing to lap at her as she rode out her release, his fingers slowing just enough to draw out every last ripple of pleasure.

Thalia’s hand fell from his head, gripping the edge of the desk for support as her body relaxed into a trembling, breathless state. Her chest heaved, her skin glistening as her head tilted back, her eyes fluttering shut. She could feel the way Solas lingered, his lips pressing reverent kisses to her folds, his touch light but steady as though grounding her.

She finally opened her eyes and looked down at him, her gaze hazy with satisfaction and awe. Solas lifted his head slightly, his eyes locking onto hers, his mouth and chin glistening with her slick as a faint, satisfied smirk graced his features. He looked utterly enraptured by her, his expression filled with a quiet reverence that left her heart pounding anew.

“You are exquisite,” he murmured, his voice low and velvety, as his fingers gently withdrew from her. Instead of moving away, he brought his hand to his lips, his eyes locking onto hers as he slowly licked the slick from his fingers, savoring her taste with deliberate intent. The gesture was unhurried, almost reverent, and the faint hum of approval that escaped him sent a fresh shiver down her spine.

Thalia’s breath hitched at the sight, her body trembling anew as she watched him, utterly mesmerized. Solas’ gaze never wavered, his expression both tender and possessive, as though he were claiming this moment as much as savoring it. When his fingers were clean, he licked his lips, the faintest smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth.

Solas rose gracefully to his feet, his movements fluid and deliberate as he towered over her once more. He leaned down, his body encircling hers, his presence enveloping her completely. His hands slid to either side of her, bracing himself on the desk as his chest pressed against hers, grounding her with his warmth. Thalia’s breath hitched as his lips hovered just above hers, the scent of her slick sticking to his mouth, filling her senses.

“You,” he murmured softly, his voice low and reverent, the lips brushing against hers, “are perfection.”

Before she could respond, his mouth claimed hers in a deep, fervent kiss, his hands shifting to cradle her face again. Thalia melted into him, her hands sliding to his waist, her body trembling from the lingering aftershocks of her release and the renewed heat of his kiss. Solas’ lips moved against hers with an intensity that left no doubt—she had undone him as thoroughly as he had unraveled her.

Solas leaned further into her, his weight pressing her gently back onto the desk until she lay beneath him. His body hovered over hers, his hands braced on either side of her, but his lips never left hers. Their kiss deepened, tongues exploring one another with a hunger that left them both breathless. The cool surface of the desk contrasted with the heat radiating from their bodies, and the sensation made Thalia shiver.

As Solas shifted, the hardness of his arousal through his breeches pressed against her, undeniable and insistent. Thalia’s breath hitched, a surge of heat pooling in her core. She instinctively rolled her hips, grinding against him, a deliberate motion to stir him further. The friction drew a guttural sound from deep in his throat, a low growl that sent a thrill through her.

Solas’ hands moved to her hips, gripping her firmly as he groaned into her mouth. “Thalia,” he murmured, her name breaking from his lips in a breathless whisper as he began to match her rhythm, rolling his hips against hers. The deliberate movement, the pressure, and the undeniable heat between them left them both trembling with desire, the tension building like a storm ready to break.

Thalia’s hands slid from Solas’ waist, her fingers curling into the fabric of his tunic. With deliberate care, she tugged it upward, her nails lightly brushing his skin as she revealed his bare stomach. The warmth of his flesh met hers as the tunic bunched higher, their bodies pressing together more intimately. The sensation sent a shiver through her, her breath catching as the intensity between them grew.

Her hands didn’t linger long on his stomach, though, as she shifted her focus lower. Her fingers worked deftly at the ties of his breeches, unfastening the straps with a mix of urgency and determination. Solas paused in his movements, his gaze fixed on her, his eyes dark with desire as he watched her unravel him piece by piece.

Once the ties were loosened, Thalia pushed the fabric down over his hips, freeing him completely. His cock pressed against her core, the heat of him undeniable, and the sensation sent a sharp jolt of pleasure through her. She arched slightly, her thighs instinctively parting to cradle him more fully as her hands slid back up to rest on his waist.

Solas groaned softly, the sound deep and unrestrained as he shifted closer, the tip of his length brushing against her slick folds. His body trembled slightly, his restraint tenuous as he leaned down, capturing her lips in another searing kiss. Their bare skin met in heated contact, every brush and press of their bodies feeding the fire burning between them.

With agonising slowness, Solas pressed his cock into her, his movements deliberate and controlled as a restrained growl rumbled deep in his chest. The sound was low, almost primal, the strain of his restraint evident as he sheathed himself fully within her. Thalia’s lips parted, soft gasps escaping her as her body arched to meet his. The intensity of the sensation sent shivers through her, and her hands gripped his sides tightly, grounding herself against the overwhelming pleasure.

Her breaths came in deep, trembling exhalations, her focus on keeping them quiet even as her body cried out for more. The stretch, the heat, the sheer intimacy left her dizzy, her head tipping back as her hips instinctively shifted to meet his. The effort to remain silent only heightened the tension, every movement charged with the weight of their secrecy.

Solas paused once he was fully buried within her, his forehead pressing against hers, his own breaths ragged and uneven. His eyes fluttered shut for a moment, as if collecting himself, before they reopened, locking onto hers with an intensity that made her tremble. His hand slid up to cup her face, his thumb brushing her cheek as he whispered something in Elvhen, his voice reverent and thick with emotion.

Thalia’s nails raked gently against his lower back, her lips forming his name in a breathless whisper. The connection between them, both physical and emotional, was electric. Slowly, Solas began to move, his thrusts measured and deliberate, each one drawing a quiet gasp from her as their bodies found a rhythm. The desk beneath them creaked softly with their movements, the faint sound drowned out by the quiet hum of their shared breath and the overwhelming heat of the moment.

With each passing moment, Solas’ thrusts grew more frantic, his restraint unraveling as he drove deeper into her. The desk beneath them groaned louder, the creaks echoing softly in the quiet rotunda. Their shared gasping breaths filled the space, their moans muffled but laden with desire, a testament to their efforts to remain unheard despite the intensity of their movements.

Books, journals, and papers tumbled from the desk, scattering across the floor in a chaotic heap. Thalia’s fingers fumbled above her head, gripping the edge of the desk to steady herself as Solas’ pace quickened, his control slipping further with each thrust. Her body arched to meet him, her breaths ragged and trembling, her nails dragging against the wood as her hips rolled instinctively in time with his.

The papers beneath her crumpled and tore with their movements, but neither spared a thought for the disarray they were creating. All that mattered in that moment was the sensation of their connection, the way their bodies moved in perfect rhythm, their shared heat and passion eclipsing everything else. Thalia’s head tilted back, her lips parting in a silent cry as Solas leaned closer, his body pressing her further into the desk, his hands gripping her hips tightly to keep her steady as they teetered on the edge.

Solas buried his face into the crook of her neck, his breath hot and uneven against her skin as his lips found her shoulder. He bit gently at first, then harder, his kisses mingling with nips and licks as he sought to ground himself amidst the rising storm inside him. Each groan and growl he released was muffled against her, his voice low and guttural, the sound from his chest vibrating against hers without carrying through the rotunda.

His thrusts became deeper, more urgent, his body trembling as he fought to maintain some semblance of control. Solas’ hands slid from her hips, tracing the curves of her waist and up her sides until they found her hands gripping the edge of the desk above her head. Without hesitation, he entwined his fingers with hers, pressing their joined hands into the wood to steady them both. The intimate gesture was grounding, anchoring him to her as his desperation for release grew wilder with each passing second.

Thalia gasped, her back arching as she felt his fingers tighten around hers, his body pressing closer, his pace relentless. Her own breaths were ragged, her body trembling beneath him as she matched his movements. The heat between them was unbearable, intoxicating, and she could feel the tension coiling in him, his need building to the point of no return. Solas pressed his lips against her neck again, groaning softly into her skin as he drove himself closer to the edge, his entire being consumed by the feel of her, the way she responded to him, and the connection they shared.

Solas’ release struck him like a crashing wave, his entire body trembling as his seed flooded into her, hot and sticky, marking her as wholly his in a way that felt both primal and sacred. His cock pulsed within her, the sensation drawing a guttural, muffled groan from his lips as his face pressed into the curve of her neck. Each throb sent shivers through him, his breath hitching with every ripple of pleasure that coursed through his body.

The warmth of him, the way he filled her so completely, was enough to push Thalia over the edge as well. Her body tensed beneath him, her legs trembling as her climax surged through her like fire. She writhed against him, her nails digging into his hands where their fingers remained intertwined, her gasps and quiet moans the only sound she dared let escape. Her inner walls clenched tightly around him, drawing a sharp growl from his throat as she milked every ounce of his release.

The intensity of her pleasure, the way she quaked beneath him, only spurred Solas on. Despite the overwhelming sensation coursing through him, he kept moving, his thrusts slower but no less driven, prolonging the moment as though he could hold onto it forever. He was utterly consumed by her—the warmth of her body, the way she responded to his every movement, the shared ecstasy that bound them together in a way no words ever could. He wanted to lose himself entirely in her, to be absorbed into this feeling and never part from it.

His mind, usually so focused and calculated, was clouded with a single thought. I want this forever. I want her forever. The weight of his need for her, his desire to be consumed by her, her love, her presence, overwhelmed him. Solas kissed her shoulder fervently, his breath hot against her skin as his movements finally began to slow, though his hold on her never loosened. He pressed himself as close to her as he could, as though trying to merge their bodies and souls, his heart pounding wildly as he let the moment wash over him, utterly captivated by the woman beneath him.

Both of them gasped softly, their breaths mingling in the still air of the rotunda as their bodies began to calm from the intensity of their release. Yet, even as the tension ebbed away, Solas felt his desire for her only deepen. The fire within him burned brighter, his cock still pulsing inside her, impossibly harder than before. He couldn’t bring himself to part from her warmth, to lose the connection that tethered him to her in this moment. His fingers tightened slightly around hers, his voice rough and laced with need as he whispered, “Turn around, vhenan.”

Thalia’s body trembled at his words, her heart racing as she felt the renewed intensity in his tone. She tilted her head to the side, her lips finding his in a desperate, breathless kiss, their mouths crashing together despite the gasps that still lingered between them. Her arms wrapped around his neck as she sat up fully, her body pressing against his as they rose up and their kiss deepened, her hands tangling in the back of his tunic.

Solas groaned into her mouth, his hands sliding to the small of her back as he thrust into her again, his movements slow but insistent. The way she clung to him, kissed him with unrestrained passion, made him tremble, his need for her growing even more unbearable. He didn’t pull out immediately, savoring every second of their joined bodies as his hips moved with deliberate precision, his cock pressing deeper into her with each thrust.

But as much as he wanted to stay buried inside her, the ache for her to follow his wish burned stronger. With a strained groan, Solas reluctantly withdrew from her, the motion slow and deliberate. A slick, faint pop echoed softly as he pulled away, and his breath hitched at the sight before him. His eyes lowered to her core, where his release trickled out of her, a slow, white and glistening trail that made his chest tighten with a mix of reverence and desire.

His hands lingered on her waist, his fingers brushing against her as though grounding himself. For a moment, he simply stared, his body trembling with the need to reclaim her. But he leaned closer instead, his lips ghosting over her ear as he whispered again, his voice low and commanding, “Turn around.”

Thalia stood up from the desk, her movements slow and deliberate as she turned around for him, her body trembling with anticipation. She leaned forward, bracing her hands on the edge of the desk, her back arching slightly to present herself to him. Solas’ breath hitched as he took her in, the way the candlelight caressed her form leaving him momentarily spellbound.

He reached out with steady hands, brushing her robe to the side and sliding her nightgown up to her waist, fully exposing her to him. His breath caught in his throat as his gaze settled on the soft curve of her butt, firm and inviting. A flicker of something feral stirring in his chest. He couldn’t deny how much he adored this view of her, how it made his pulse quicken and his desire burn even hotter.

Solas’ hand moved instinctively to her, his palm brushing over the soft skin before he gently caressed the curve of her butt. The warmth of her flesh against his palm sent a shiver down his spine, and before he could stop himself, he gave her a firm squeeze. The soft sound she made in response nearly undid him, his self-control teetering on the edge.

For a moment, he froze, his hand lingering as he fought against the temptation to do more. His fingers flexed slightly, the urge to spank her flashing through his mind, but he forced himself to restrain. Instead, he leaned forward, his lips brushing against the small of her back as his other hand joined the first, reverently stroking her as though committing every curve to memory.

Solas kissed the small of her back, his lips lingering against her skin as his hands tightened slightly on her soft skin. He trailed downward, his breath warm and uneven as he pressed a tender kiss to each cheek of her butt. Then, unable to resist the growing hunger within him, he bit lightly, his teeth grazing her skin in a way that sent a sharp jolt of sensation through her.

Thalia gasped, the sound soft but filled with surprise and pleasure, her body arching slightly beneath his touch. The sound was intoxicating, stirring something primal in Solas as his restraint began to slip further. His desire to spank her, to mark her in some way, transformed into an overwhelming need to bite her again, to feel her soft flesh under his teeth.

He leaned in, his lips trailing kisses along the curve of her butt before biting her again, this time with slightly more pressure, though still gentle enough to tease rather than hurt. Thalia’s sharp intake of breath and the way her fingers curled against the desk only spurred him on, his tongue brushing over the marks he left as if soothing them. His hands roamed the curve of her butt and thighs as he worked, every movement deliberate, his need for her consuming him completely.

Solas leaned in again, his teeth sinking into the soft curve of her butt, this time with enough pressure to leave a mark blooming on her skin. Thalia let out a sharp gasp, her body shivering at the blend of pain and pleasure. Solas hummed in satisfaction, his lips curving into a smirk as he licked the mark, soothing the sting left by his bite.

Rising to his full length, he grasped her hips firmly, angling himself behind her. His cock, slick with their mingled release, brushed against her entrance, smearing the warmth of him against her core. The sensation made them both groan softly, their sharp intakes of breath mingling. Solas closed his eyes for a moment, steadying himself as he pushed forward slowly, the tightness of her drawing him in inch by inch.

The gasps and groans that escaped them echoed through the rotunda, the sound carrying in the silence. Both of them froze instantly, the weight of their reckless passion hitting them as they listened intently. Thalia’s breath was shallow, her chest rising and falling as she strained to hear any movement from outside—boots on stone, voices drawing nearer—but there was only silence. No guards stirred, and the rotunda remained undisturbed.

Relief washed over them, and Solas chuckled softly, the low sound vibrating against her back as he leaned forward slightly, his hands tightening on her hips. Thalia followed with a quiet laugh of her own, the shared moment of tension and amusement only heightening the intimacy between them. With a small shake of his head, Solas pressed his lips to her shoulder in a tender kiss before continuing his slow, deliberate thrusts, their laughter melting into gasps and moans once more.

But as quickly as their realization of the need for secrecy came, their care to keep quiet began to dissolve in the haze of their passion. Solas’ thrusts grew more frantic, each movement driving deeper into her, eliciting soft gasps and moans that mingled with the faint echoes of their bodies colliding.

Solas’ hands gripped her waist tightly, his fingers pressing into her skin as his mind reeled with the sensations. He couldn’t help but revel in the soft bounce of her butt each time he thrust, the curve of her body driving him to near madness. The way her form molded so perfectly against his own left him breathless, his admiration only heightening the pace of his movements. His eyes flicked down for a moment, his breath hitching at the sight of her curves moving in perfect tandem with his, the image seared into his mind as he lost himself entirely to her.

Thalia’s gasps matched the rhythm of his movements, her body aching with every powerful thrust. Her fingers clutched the edge of the desk, knuckles white as she tried to steady herself against the pleasure surging through her. Solas gripped her hips tightly, his fingers digging into her soft skin as he lost himself further in the intoxicating sensation of her warmth and tightness wrapped around him.

The thought of his earlier release, his seed still inside her, being pushed deeper with every thrust spurred them both on. The primal idea of him filling her so completely, marking her in such an intimate way, left Solas trembling with a mix of reverence and need. Thalia, too, was consumed by the thought, her gasps turning into soft, breathless moans as the sensation of him moving within her stirred a raw, aching pleasure that she could no longer contain.

Solas’ chest pressed against her back as his thrusts became erratic, his control slipping entirely. His breath was hot against her ear as he groaned her name, his breath warm and uneven against her shoulder as he managed to speak between groans. “This… this is reckless,” he muttered, his voice rough and trembling with desire. “If anyone hears us… finds us..?”

Thalia’s laugh was soft but tinged with a playful edge, her body trembling beneath him as she gasped in reply. “And when… have I ever not been reckless, Solas?” Her voice hitched as his cock pressed deeper into her, her hips meeting his. “The thrill of it… being here, where anyone… could catch us… makes this more… intoxicating.”

Solas groaned in response, his hands gripping her tighter, his self-control slipping further. “You are impossible to resist,” he said, his words muffled as he pressed a kiss to her neck, his teeth grazing her skin. “This… thrill, the risk of it—it’s maddening. We should stop… but I can’t.”

“Then don’t,” Thalia whispered, her voice trembling with pleasure as she arched back against him. “The thought of being caught, knowing they might hear us—it only makes this better.” She let out a soft cry as his pace quickened, her fingers curling against the desk. “Your precious research is a disaster.”

Solas’ eyes flicked to the chaos around them—books and papers scattered, papers torn and crumpled beneath her, the runes he had meticulously studied now smudged and displaced. He growled softly, his hands sliding from her hips and up under her nightgown to her waist as he pulled her closer, pressing deeper into her. His voice thick with both exasperation and amusement. “I don’t care. None of it… compares to... you.”

Thalia moaned at his words, her nails digging into the desk as her body trembled beneath his. “Ahh.. keep going,” she teased breathlessly, her voice laced with pleasure. “You’re just as reckless as I am.”

His laugh was low and ragged, his thrusts growing harder as he leaned down, his lips brushing her ear. “Perhaps I am,” he murmured, his voice husky with desire. “Or perhaps it’s you, vhenan. You’ve turned my control to ash and made me crave your chaos.”

She gasped, her head tilting back as the intensity of his movements drove her closer to the edge. “Then let it consume you,” she whispered, her voice trembling as she pushed back against him.

The desk beneath them creaked loudly, the scattered books and papers crumpling further with every thrust. The thrill of their passion, the danger of being caught, and the sheer abandonment of logic in favor of their desire heightened every sensation. Solas groaned again, his hands tightening as he gave in fully to her, no longer caring about the mess they had made or the consequences that might follow.

His chest pressing against her back as his thrusts slowed for a moment, deep and deliberate, drawing out the sensation for both of them. His lips hovered by her ear, his breath warm and uneven as he whispered, his voice low and trembling with emotion. “Ar lath ma vhenan,” he murmured, the words raw and unguarded. “You’ve utterly consumed me… I am obsessed with you. The way you tear me apart with just a glance, the way your very presence makes my blood burn—you make me feel alive in ways I never thought possible.”

Thalia gasped at his words, her hands gripping the edge of the desk tightly as her body trembled beneath him. Solas’ hips resumed their rhythm, his thrusts deep and powerful as he continued to speak, his voice thick with both adoration and desire. “You have me wrapped around your fingers, Thalia. Every word you say, every touch, every glance… I am helpless before you.”

His hands slid from her waist and back to her hips, gripping her firmly as he pushed deeper into her, drawing a soft cry from her lips. “And the way you feel, vhenan,” he groaned, his voice rough and trembling. “You’re perfect. So tight around me, squeezing me… it’s maddening. Do you feel how perfectly we fit together? As if you were made for me?”

Thalia whimpered, her head falling forward as her body clenched around him, her breaths coming in shallow gasps. “Solas…” she whispered, her voice trembling as she pushed back against him, her movements meeting his in perfect rhythm.

His thrusts grew more frantic, the sound of their bodies meeting echoing softly through the rotunda. Solas pressed a kiss to her ear, his lips trailing down to her neck as he groaned. “And I never want it to end, vhenan.”

Thalia’s breath hitched as the tension within her coiled impossibly tight, every thrust from Solas pushing her closer to the edge. Her lips parted, her voice trembling as she whispered his name, her tone laced with desperation. “Solas…” The sound of her need made his pace falter for a moment, his hands gripping her hips tighter as his lips brushing against her ear.

“I can feel you, vhenan,” he murmured, his voice low and heavy with desire. “So close, so perfect... Let go for me. Let me feel you fall apart.” His words were a mixture of command and devotion, each one spoken with a raw intensity that left no doubt of his need for her.

That was all it took. His words sent her spiraling over the edge again, her body trembling violently as her climax crashed through her. Thalia’s arms gave out, her weight sinking onto the desk as her body writhed beneath him, her cries muffled by the wood beneath her cheek. Her muscles clenched tightly around him, the sensation making Solas groan deeply, his grip on her tightening as he continued to thrust through her release.

“Beautiful,” he whispered, his voice reverent as he watched her fall apart beneath him. “You are breathtaking, Thalia...” His lips found the back of her neck, pressing tender kisses there as her body continued to quake beneath him, her breaths coming in shallow, uneven gasps.

Solas paused for a brief moment, allowing her to ride the final waves of her release. The sight of her—completely undone, her body trembling beneath him—only deepened his hunger. His desire surged anew, and without hesitation, his hips began to move again, his need for her insatiable as he sought his own release.

Solas slid one hand from her waist, his fingers grazing up her spine before finding her hair, brushing through it with a gentle touch that quickly turned possessive. He tangled his fingers tightly into the strands, his grip firm as he rose, pulling her up with him. The motion was fluid yet commanding, his other hand stayed anchored at her waist, holding her steady as his hips moved with wild, relentless urgency.

His thrusts grew frantic, quick and deep, each motion drawing a gasp from Thalia as the tip of his cock hit her cervix with maddening precision. The sensation was overwhelming, every thrust pushing his earlier release further inside her, the warmth of his seed spreading impossibly deep. Thalia’s body trembled under his hold, her back arching against him as she clung to the desk for support. The idea of being filled so completely, of him claiming her so thoroughly, only heightened the heat pooling within her.

Her breaths came in sharp, ragged bursts, her lips parting in desperate attempts to stifle the cries threatening to escape. Every movement, every collision of their bodies, made it harder to keep quiet. Solas growled low in her ear, the sound vibrating against her skin, primal and unrestrained. The way she tightened around him with every thrust was driving him mad, his need for her shadowing all logic.

Thalia’s hands gripped the edge of the desk, her knuckles white as she tried to ground herself, but the sensation was nigh impossible to endure silently. The feel of him, the way he filled her and moved within her, left her completely undone. Solas leaned forward, his breath hot against her neck as he murmured, his voice rough and trembling, “You take me so perfectly, vhenan. I can’t stop—I don’t want to stop.”

Solas released her hair, his hand gliding around her neck to wrap firmly around her throat, his fingers curling gently yet possessively against her skin. The gesture made Thalia shiver beneath him, her breath hitching as his pace grew even more frenzied. He leaned forward, his lips finding her neck, trailing heated kisses before biting down just hard enough to send a sharp jolt of sensation through her.

The sound of their bodies colliding together grew louder, the echoes bouncing off the stone walls of the rotunda. Neither of them cared anymore; the risk, the chance of being caught, only spurred them on. Solas’ movements were relentless, each thrust driving deeper, his hips snapping against hers with maddening precision. The heat between them was all-consuming, a storm of need and connection that neither could control.

Solas groaned deeply, the sound muffled against her neck as his climax crashed through him with brutal force. His cock pulsed within her, his seed shooting far into her in hot, sticky streams, filling her completely. The heat and pressure of his seed mixed with the remnants of his earlier release, the slick mingling together deep inside her, pressing up against her cervix in a way that made both of their entire bodies tremble. His grip on her throat tightened briefly as he steadied himself, his other hand firmly holding her waist, grounding them both as the overwhelming sensation coursed through him.

Unable to fully contain himself, Solas buried his mouth into her shoulder, his teeth grazing her skin as he tried to stifle the groan that tore from his chest. He fought the urge to bite hard enough to mark her, his need for control battling the primal instinct to claim her. The thought of marking her so thoroughly, of their union lingering within her even after they parted, sent a shudder down his spine, leaving him utterly undone. Thalia gasped, her breaths coming in broken, uneven bursts as her body quaked beneath his, the aftershocks of her own release mingling with the overwhelming sensation of him pouring into her.

Their breaths heaved in unison, the intensity of their release leaving them trembling as they remained still, pressed together. Solas loosened his grip on her throat, his fingers brushing lightly over her skin in a gesture of both reassurance and reverence. His other hand remained on her waist, his palm warm and grounding as he gave her a gentle squeeze, his touch firm but tender as the last ripples of his climax coursed through him.

His body shuddered slightly, the aftershocks of their intimacy leaving him weak and breathless. His forehead resting against the curve of her shoulder, his lips brushing her skin in soft, reverent kisses. For a moment, the world around them faded entirely, the only thing anchoring them both being the warmth of their connection, the feeling of completeness that neither could deny.

Solas kept himself buried deep within her, unwilling to part from the warmth and intimacy they shared. Their bodies remained pressed together, trembling slightly as their breathing began to steady, each inhale and exhale mingling in the quiet of the rotunda. His hands softened their grip, one still resting gently on her waist while the other caressed the curve of her shoulder, his thumb brushing soothing circles against her skin.

“Ar lath ma vhenan,” he whispered, his voice low and reverent, laced with the remnants of their passion.

Thalia let out a soft, breathless laugh, her voice trembling with both emotion and satisfaction. “Ar lath ma,” she murmured, her fingers flexing slightly against the desk as she pushed back into him, relishing the feeling of his closeness.

Solas leaned forward, his lips pressing tenderly to the curve of her neck as he whispered, “You’re everything to me, Thalia. I… I never want to let you go.” His voice broke slightly, the vulnerability in his words matching the intensity of his gaze as he pressed a kiss to her shoulder.

Thalia tilted her head back, her eyes fluttering closed as she let his words wash over her. “You make me feel so good,” she confessed softly, her voice barely audible but carrying the weight of her emotions. “Like I’m the only thing in your world.”

“You are,” Solas replied without hesitation, his hands tightening on her ever so slightly, as though to ground himself in her presence. “Always, vhenan. Always.”

Solas lingered within her, the intimacy of their connection making it impossible to pull away just yet. The temptation became too much to resist, and he shifted his hips, thrusting slowly into her once more. The slick motion sent shivers through both of them, her warmth enveloping him completely, coaxing a groan from his lips. Thalia gasped softly, her body trembling beneath him, and a breathless giggle escaped her as the sensation reignited the sensitivity they had only just begun to recover from.

He chuckled lowly, his voice rich with both affection and desire as he murmured, “I can’t get enough of you, vhenan. Your… your body, your voice, the way you feel.”

Thalia let out another soft laugh, her fingers curling against the desk as she tilted her head to glance back at him. “Tempting fate all over again.” she teased, her voice breathless but filled with warmth.

Solas smiled against her skin, his hands sliding gently over her hips as he gave one last deliberate thrust, groaning softly as he felt his seed push further into her. “I would keep going,” he admitted, his voice low and velvety, “for hours, if you let me. But…” He exhaled slowly, reluctantly stilling his movements. “We’ve tempted fate long enough tonight.”

He pressed a soft, lingering kiss to her shoulder, his hands squeezing her hips gently before he finally began to ease out of her, the loss of their connection making both of them shudder.

Solas carefully adjusted Thalia’s nightgown and robe, smoothing the fabric over her butt and shoulders with hands that lingered just long enough to feel her warmth through the cloth. She rose up from the desk with a quiet huff, her fingers brushing over the marks and wrinkles left behind on her clothing. Solas turned his attention to fastening his breeches, his movements deliberate as he straightened his tunic.

Thalia turned and leaned back against the desk, resting her hands on either side of her for balance. Her thighs pressed against the edge, and she let out a soft sigh. Her gaze fell on Solas, the man she loved, and the corner of her lips twitched into a faint smile. She was utterly captivated by him—the way the candlelight caught the curve of his cheekbone, the strength in his jaw, and the way his chest rose and fell as he caught his breath.

She bit her lip, her eyes lingering on him, feeling a heat stir within her again. Her cheeks flushed as she became acutely aware of the sensation of his seed slipping out of her, a tangible reminder of their intimacy that made her shiver.

Solas caught her gaze and arched a brow, a knowing smirk tugging at his lips. “What is it, vhenan?” he asked, his voice soft but playful as he stepped closer, his eyes alight with curiosity.

Thalia’s cheeks flushed deeper, but she didn’t look away. “I don’t think I’ll ever get enough of looking at you.” she murmured, her voice tender yet bold,

Her words made him pause, his smirk softening into something more reverent. Solas closed the distance between them, his hands lifting to cradle her face with such gentleness that her breath caught. His thumbs brushed along her cheekbones as he tilted her head slightly, his eyes holding hers as though searching for something unspoken.

Without another word, he leaned in, pressing a tender kiss to her lips. The kiss was slow, unhurried, and full of unspoken emotion—gratitude, adoration, and love. Thalia’s hands lifted instinctively, resting lightly against his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart beneath her fingers.

Just as their kiss deepened, a sound reached their ears—the unmistakable click of a door handle above them. Both froze, their breaths stilling as they processed the noise. The soft creak of a library door swinging open sent a jolt through them, and in a split second, they parted, creating a respectable distance between them. Solas leaned casually against the desk, his expression composed but his eyes still holding a glimmer of their earlier intimacy. Thalia crossed her arms loosely over her chest, her robe pulled snugly around her, as though she had been lost in thought.

Footsteps echoed down the stairs leading to the rotunda, and soon, a guard appeared, his face neutral but alert. He glanced between the two of them, then gave a small bow toward the two of them. “Inquisitor. Master Solas.” he said respectfully, his tone polite. “Good evening.”

“Good evening,” Thalia replied smoothly, her voice steady despite the rapid beat of her heart.

Solas inclined his head in acknowledgment, his expression calm and unreadable. The guard lingered only a moment before continuing through the rotunda, heading toward the door that led to the ramparts. As soon as the heavy door closed behind him, they both let out a shared laugh, the tension breaking into a soft sigh of relief.

Thalia let out a soft sigh of relief, brushing a loose strand of hair from her face. “Glad he didn’t make his rounds through the rotunda any sooner,” she said, a playful smile tugging at her lips. “We’d be very much in trouble.”

Solas chuckled, his shoulders relaxing as he leaned against the edge of the desk. “A stroke of luck,” he replied, his tone warm yet tinged with wry amusement. “Though I fear I might have had difficulty explaining why the Inquisitor and I were… discussing matters so energetically.”

Thalia laughed quietly, the sound light but still carrying a hint of lingering tension. She gestured to the scattered books and papers on the floor. “Well,” she began, “I wonder what he must’ve thought about the state of your research.”

Solas chuckled again, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. “No doubt he suspects my work has overtaken me once more,” he said lightly, his voice carrying a teasing edge. “I’ll need to spend some time rearranging it… before anyone wonders where I am.”

Thalia caught the subtle implication in his words, her smile turning mischievous as she stepped closer, her voice dropping slightly. “Make sure you don’t get too lost in your work, alright?” she replied, her tone soft but laced with promise.

Solas’ smirk deepened, his gaze meeting hers with a mixture of amusement and heat. “Don’t worry, Inquisitor,” he murmured, his voice low and velvety, “I won’t take long.”

With that, Thalia turned gracefully, her steps purposeful as she made her way back toward the great hall, leaving him to his scattered research. Solas watched her go, a small smile lingering on his lips as the thought of her waiting for him stirred something warm and possessive within him. With a final glance at the mess they had left, he sighed, shaking his head with fondness before beginning to gather his books and papers, anticipation thrumming through him.