The night was calm, the air crisp and scented with pine as you made your way through the forest, far from the constant demands of your duties as the newly established Warden-Commander of Ferelden. A canopy of stars stretched overhead, casting silvery light on the darkened wood. It had been far too long since you saw her, longer still since you felt her warmth beside you. Tonight, you were finally together again.

Leliana stood by the edge of a clearing, back in her old attire while cruising Ferelden with you during the blight. Her presence, serene and striking, reminded you of the days when she fought beside you. Now, she was the revered Left Hand of the Divine, her duties drawing her away to distant lands. But tonight, in this secret moment, she was just Leliana, the woman you loved.

— I feared you might have forgotten what silence feels like. She teased, her voice warm with familiarity.

— Not that you preferred it over battling darkspawn and archdemons.

She finally turned around, her eyes catching yours with a soft smile forming on her lips. Her short, orange hair lit by the bright moonlight overhead, and the distant torch lamps back towards civilization. Leliana's smile deepened, though her eyes betrayed a hint of sadness.

— It hurts me. That what we have chosen in life demands much from both of us that its a miracle to know you're alright.

The two of you stood beneath an ancient oak, the soft rustling of leaves the only sound as the night embraced you both. Despite the distance and the time apart, the connection between you felt as strong as ever. Words weren't always necessary between you and Leliana. The quiet shared moments often spoke louder than any conversation could.

— I hear tales of your victories. The darkspawn don’t stand a chance against the Warden-Commander. Leliana said, breaking the brief silence.