[ He could never tire of her company, and he certainly hasn't. In the months that have passed, they have spent quite the amount of time together. Both on and off the battlements, and Cullen wouldn't have it any other way. Despite the pain and discomfort he is in, he feels at his best at her side. Her smile brings him strength, her touch only feeding to it and he finds confidence that he will make it through this downward spiral so long as she holds his hand along the way. ]

[ Neria tells him his feelings are not a burden to her, and he believes it. There had been a point where he almost hadn't, but her tone and delivery is genuine. What she says next has him pausing, eyes quick to meet with hers where he hangs on that hesitation as if it were a cliff crumbling under his grasp. But he doesn't fall, she says... Something. Something akin to whatever it is that this might be, and he can't help but press. ]

Of course you belong. Your contribution to the Inquisition is just as valuable as your presence. We've come so far with your guidance, your Wardens...

[ Cullen looks down at their hands, where his fingers latch around and thumbs roll circles around her knuckles. ]

I... I certainly owe my own success to you.

[ Even through his pain, his smile is soft, genuine. ]

Neria...

I care for you. Words cannot express how far such feelings run, but I find myself eager to know where this might go once everything is over.