The Lady of Highever: The Tale of Ferelden's Hero
Prologue - The Siege of Highever: Warden's Calling
(Origin)
Within the walls of Highever, on a beautiful summer's morning, a faire maiden lay upon the soft grass on a hill overlooking the castle. She was clothed in an elegant red dress adorned with a gold sash and a pendant with her family crest emblazoned upon it. All was calm and quiet and the maiden slowly closed her luminous brown eyes and smiled at the warmth of the sun on her body. She had finally found serenity amongst the chaos and nothing was going to ruin it.
"Lady Guinevere!" a man's voiced called, "My lady, where are you?"
Guinevere sighed, hoisted herself onto her feet and made her way down the hill and back into the castle. She maneuvered through the streets without paying much attention, as no one knew the fortress as well as she, not even her father's most elite of soldiers. She turned a corner and upon seeing the man who was looking for her she ducked back around and hugged the wall. The man turned, having heard what he thought was small footsteps, and slowly made his way to the corner.
"Guinevere?"
He was greeted by having his arm grabbed and twisted behind his back. He let out a slight moan of pain, which was met with him being thrust into the wall. His attacker was strong, but not strong enough. He broke out of the hold, grabbed his dagger from his belt and slammed the attacker into the wall, blade to their throat. His eyes widened in surprise to see that his attacker was the very woman he was looking for.
She smiled slyly, "Ser Roland Gilmore, you never cease to amaze me with your ability to evade capture. I am humbly at your mercy," her brown eyes held his own, which had finally overcome their surprise.
"My lady, you know better than to sneak up on me like that. I was worried something had happened to you," his blade was still pressed into her throat, and he had his free hand against the wall, briefly moving it the brush Guinevere's dark hair from her face. She was breathing hard, her arms above her hand on the wall; she shuddered with pleasure as the cold blade touched her neck.
"Ser, I apologize for causing you distress and great alarm, but I think you over exaggerate your talents," she smirked at the knight.
He responded by pressing his body into her gorgeous form, pushing her closer to the wall, "I have the skills to kill you right now, my lady. You know that for a fact, do you not? Or is it Nan who eyes me with such desire when I train in the barracks courtyard? Do not worry, I wouldn't do it. My sworn duty is to protect you. You and that pretty little neck. I live only to serve."
He barely got the last word out when her mouth claimed his in a passionate kiss. The dagger fell from his hand, forgotten, as he cupped his hand behind her neck, deepening the kiss. His free hand ran down her bursting bosom and onto her stomach. She moaned with anticipation, earning a smirk from her knight. He slowly lifted the folds of her dress and caressed her thighs. He felt his groin throb with want, and sharply inhaled when he felt a small hand undoing his trousers.
"Stop teasing me, Rory. I command you to make love to me right now," her eyes were filled with lust as she tugged his trousers down slightly, revealing his member, fully erect. He chuckled slightly and spoke into her ear.
"As you wish."
He thrust himself into her wet opening, and rhythmically continued, kissing her soft lips as he did. Guinevere whined in pleasure and pulled his armoured torso closer to her breasts. He continued to love her, his desire heightening every time she whispered his name through kisses. He parted his lips from hers oh so slightly, and nibbled at her cheek. Her lips followed him, and were yearning for him so close the gap yet again. He obliged and she ran her fingers through his auburn hair, which was soft and thick. Guinevere wrapped her legs around Gilmore's waist and he pushed her arms over her head, hungrily kissing her now fully exposed chest. She moaned in ecstasy as her lover pounded into her, with a true warrior's strength. Her eyes shot open as she cried out, reaching her climax, and her knight collapsed onto her, spent.
They grinned at each other with great satisfaction, and softly kissed each other's swollen lips.
"Was that to my lady's satisfaction?" Ser Gilmore asked in a serious voice, which contradicted his mischievous grin.
Guinevere nodded, "Oh, yes, Ser Gilmore," her voiced faint in her pleasure, "That was a most wonderful performance," she licked her lips in a tease, which disappeared into another moan when he gently rocked his hips.
"You forget, I am still inside of you, dear lady. If I had my way, I'd ravish you all day and long into the night, but your mother sent me to find you. I fear your hound has the kitchens in an uproar once again. Nan is threatening to leave," Guinevere sighed softly but smiled at him. The two separated reluctantly, fixed each other's tousled hair and adjusted their clothing to be decent and presentable, and made their way towards the kitchens.
"Did he get into the larder again?"
Ser Gilmore nodded, "No matter how the maids try to keep him out, he always finds a way in, "he laughed, "You know these Mabari hounds. He'll listen to his mistress, but anyone else risk having an arm bitten off."
Guinevere chuckled at this, "Then I guess I should go and collect him," she was slightly disappointed with how quickly their professional relationship resurfaced again. Were they not just making love with great passion? He face remained smiling, but her eyes were sad.
Ser Gilmore did not notice, and if he did he did not show it, "That would be wise, before Nan tears down the walls," he looked at her in admiration, "You're quite lucky to have your own Mabari war hound, you know. Smart enough not to talk, my father used to say," he sighed, "of course that means he is easily bored. Nan swears he confounds her just to amuse himself."
Guinevere burst into laughter, for she could imagine Briar doing just that. Ser Gilmore laughed too, but stopped when she turned her brown eyes onto his blue, longing within both pairs.
He blinked and looked away, "At any rate, your mother would have me accompany you until the matter is settled. Shall we?" he motioned in the direction of the kitchens. Guinevere frowned and glanced towards the main castle.
"I need to talk to my brother, first."
"Your mother was quite specific—'unless the castle is under attack, you get that dog before doing anything else.' Her words, not mine."
The two chatted as they made their way to the kitchens, their main topic being of the Grey Warden, Duncan, whom Guinevere had met a short while earlier. The Teryn had summoned his daughter to ask her to inform her elder brother, Fergus that he was to ride out ahead of him. Her father's good friend, Arl Rendon Howe, had been there as well. His troops were slightly delayed, and her father had decided to wait for the Arl's men to arrive before heading out. She did not mention to Ser Gilmore that the Arl had informed her of his eldest son's inquiries about her. Thomas Howe was indeed charming, but he wasn't her type. She preferred the company of his brother, Nathaniel, quiet and stoic.
Even those who were visiting Castle Cousland for the first time in their lives would be able to find the kitchen, as one only had to follow Nan's incessant bellowing. Guinevere bit her lip in an effort to suppress a smile, but Ser Gilmore saw it anyways and smiled back, his ears slightly pink. Guinevere giggled; as her smile was more so directed towards her mischievous hound infiltrating the larder even though it had been thoroughly dog-proofed, but thinking about the encounter that occurred naught five minutes ago caused her to smile even more. When they reached the kitchens, Guinevere turned the large iron handle and heaved the heavy wooden door open, the familiar and angry tone of her Nan greeted her.
"Get that bloody mutt out of the larder!" Nan crossed her arms and sternly stared at the two servants standing before her.
They cringed at her outburst, "But, mistress! It won't let us near!"
"If I can't get into that larder, I'll skin both of you useless elves, I swear it!"
Ser Gilmore gently placed a hand on her shoulder, "Err…calm down, good woman. We've come to help…"
Nan whipped around and glared at him, "You!" her expression hardened even more when she saw Guinevere, "And You! Your bloody mongrel keeps getting into my larder! That beast should be put down!"
Guinevere held her gaze and spoke quietly, "I'm sorry he's bothering you, Nan."
Nan's facial expression softened, but her voice remained stern, "Just get him gone! I've enough to worry about with a castle full of hungry soldiers!" she turned to the two elven servants, who happened to be blocking the door, "You two! Stop standing there like idiots! Get out of the way!" They quickly scurried across the kitchen, and Nan nodded to the door, arms crossed impatiently.
Guinevere and Ser Gilmore entered the larder, and sure enough; there he was, Guinevere's most loyal companion and best friend, Briar. He was a massive Mabari war hound, with light brown fur and large black eyes, eyes that brightened when he saw his master, and he bounced around her happily, but quickly returned to the back wall. He let out a menacing growl, baring all of his large, sharp teeth, not once looking from the wall.
Ser Gilmore was too busy examining the larder. He let out a deep sigh, "Look at this mess. How did he even get in here?" The dog responded with excited barking towards the wall.
Guinevere eyed her hound suspiciously, "What is it, boy? Is there something back there?"
Ser Gilmore nodded slowly, "It does look like he is trying to tell you something…"
As he spoke, Guinevere reached towards some sacks near where Briar was glaring.
"Wait, do you hear that?"
She had only briefly touched them when huge rats erupted from behind them. Ser Gilmore drew his blade and struck at them, tossing Guinevere his dagger, which she plunged into one of the rodents before it crawled out the door. Briar was also attacking the rats, lunging at them with his teeth and crushing them with his large paws. After all the rats had been eradicated, Ser Gilmore was shaking his head.
"Giant rats? It's like the start of every bad adventure tale my grandfather used to tell."
Briar was pressing his snout into a small hole in the base of the back wall. He barked at it, sniffed it, and trotted to Guinevere's side when he realized they were all gone. She scratched behind his ears and beamed at her hero of the larder, "Your hound must have chased them in through their holes. Looks like he wasn't raiding the larder after all."
"It certainly looks that way."
Guinevere turned to Ser Gilmore, about to speak but he cut her off, "Seeing as you've got your Mabari well in hand, I'll be on my way. I'm to prepare for the arrival of more of the Arl's men, "he crossed his arms over his chest and bowed, "My lady," and then he was gone.
Guinevere scoffed and glared at the spot he had been standing in. Why was he being so cold and distant? She disliked very much the way he was acting, and she exited the larder feeling like someone had slammed a shield into her head.
"There he is, as brazen as you please, licking his chops after helping himself to the roast, no doubt!" Nan glared at the massive dog.
Guinevere put a hand on his head, "Actually, he was defending you larder from rats. Big ones," this earned a small squeak from the two servants whose faces paled with fear.
Nan shot Guinevere a look, "See? Now you've gone and scared the servants! I expect those filthy things are dead?"
"My faithful war hound made sure it's safe."
Nan snorted at this, "Hmph. I bet that dog led those rats into there to begin with," Briar seemed hurt by this and whined sadly, ears drooping. Nan was unaffected, "Oh, don't even start with the sad eyes! I'm immune to your so-called charms," Briar laid down on the floor and whined some more, causing Nan to cave, "Here, then. Take these pork bits and don't say that Nan never gives you anything!" Briar gobbled the pork bits down and barked happily, and Nan shook her head.
"Bloody dog," she turned to Guinevere and smiled, "Thank you, my lady. Now we can get to work, "she glared towards the elves, "That's right, you two, quit standing about!"
Guinevere exited the kitchens, Briar in tow, and made her way towards the main castle. She had to find Fergus and relay father's message. She slowed down at an intersection when she heard a familiar woman's voice.
"And my dear Bryce brought this back from Orlais last year," the woman laughed, "The marquis who gave it to him was drunk, I understand, and mistook Bryce for the king," she found herself chuckling as well, as she remembered the story fondly when her father told it to them upon returning from Orlais. She turned the corner and walked up the cobblestones towards her mother, who was in the company of other nobles. Teryna Eleanor brightened when she saw her.
"Ah, here is my lovely daughter," she took on a slightly serious expression upon seeing Briar, "I take it by the presence of that troublesome hound of yours that the situation in the kitchen is handled?"
"Yes. Mother. Nan is back to work as we speak."
The Teryna let out a sigh of relief, "You've always had a way with her," she motioned to the woman standing next to her, "Darling, you remember Lady Landra? Bann Loren's wife?"
Lady Landra smiled at her, "I think we last met at your mother's spring salon."
Guinevere giggled at the memory, "Of course. It is good to see you again, my lady," but Lady Landra laughed in response.
"You're too kind, dear girl. Didn't I spend half of the salon trying to convince you marry my son?"
As if on cue, the handsome man materialized at her side, "And made a very poor case for it, I might add," he smiled at Guinevere.
"You remember my son, Dairren?" she paused before she added suggestively, "He's not married yet, either."
Dairren rolled his eyes and shot a tiny glare towards his mother, "Don't listen to her," he smiled again as his gaze returned to Guinevere, "It's good to see you again, my lady. You're looking as beautiful as ever," he took her hand and kissed it softly, smiling at her still.
Guinevere felt herself blush, "You're looking handsome, yourself."
The two stared at each other for a few moments, Guinevere only half listening to Lady Landra as she introduced her lady-in-waiting, Iona, who said a comment that earned a snort from her mother, which snapped her back to reality.
"And she says this after seeing you whacking stuffed men in the courtyard, sweating like a mule," the Teryna shook her head but smiled slightly.
Dairren glanced at Eleanor, "Your daughter's prowess with a blade is most impressive."
The Teryna laughed, "I was quite the battle maiden myself, in my day. But I think it was the softer arts that helped me land a husband," she directed the last bit towards Guinevere, who was about to open her mouth in protest when she saw Ser Gilmore standing nearby, speaking with Lady Landra's guard.
She turned to Dairren, and spoke in a voice just loud enough for Roland to hear her, "Perhaps we should speak alone sometime, Dairren?"
Dairren, still holding her hand, planted another kiss upon it, "I would like that, my lady."
Lady Landra and Teryna Eleanor both looked amused and pleased at their children's flirtatious and non subtle suggestiveness. Lady Landra exchanged a smile with Eleanor, "I think perhaps I shall rest now, my dear," she turned to her son, "Dairren, I will see you and Iona at supper."
"Perhaps we'll retire to the study for now," he winked at Guinevere before taking his leave. He did not notice Ser Gilmore glowering at him.
Lady Landra curtsied, "Good evening, your Ladyship."
Guinevere turned to her mother and was about to say something when her she held up her hand, "You should go say goodbye to Fergus while you have the chance."
Guinevere took her mother's hands and shook her head, "I have a bad feeling about all this."
Eleanor squeezed her daughter's hands, "As do I; Your father and brother off to fight Maker-knows-what. All the assurances in the world couldn't comfort me. But it wouldn't help for us to take up arms and follow. Fergus and your father have their duty and we have ours."
Guinevere scoffed and gazed longingly at her mother, "Why can't I go with Father and Fergus?"
"I know it's difficult to stay in the castle and watch others ride off, but we must see to our duties first," she paused and placed a hand on her daughter's face; "You understand that, don't you?"
Guinevere opened her mouth to retort, but instead nodded slowly, "I understand," she released her mother's hands and turned towards the castle, "I should go," Eleanor's arms caught her first.
"I love you, my darling girl. You know that, don't you?"
"I love you, too."
Eleanor kissed her daughter on the forehead and stroked her hair softly before saying, "Go do what you must, then. I will see you soon," she turned and made her way towards to Great Hall, probably to scold her husband into properly seeing his son off instead of using Guinevere as a carrier pigeon. Guinevere started towards the castle, but found herself at the door of the study instead. Smirking slightly, she entered the room, greeted by Dairren's not very subtle observation of her bosom.
"Hello, again. Your castle's study is wonderful. Might I ask whose collection this is?"
Guinevere ran a hand over the leather books, seductively making her way towards him, "It was my grandfather's, but I come here often to read."
Dairren swallowed hard, "So would I. Do you have a favourite book?"
Guinevere gracefully slid behind him, running a hand along his shoulders, and said into his ear, "The Art of Passionate Love by Brother Capria."
"Oh…that was banned by the Chantry, wasn't it? Quite…provocative, I understand. I've, ah, never read it, myself," he turned around to face her, and found himself becoming quite aroused. She pulled him close to her, slowly. Once he was pressed into her she twirled one of his curls in her finger.
"I could show you what I learned," she said huskily.
Their lips brushed, and both were breathing hard, "Oh. That sounds…interesting," he managed. He would have ripped her dress of right then and there, until he remembered where they were, "Um… Here?"
"Why don't we go somewhere more private?"
He smirked mischievously, "Gladly…but you mother is expecting me for dinner shortly. As is mine. Perhaps another time?"
"Why don't you," she ran a hand down his chest, "come up to my room later tonight?"
Dairren felt himself become even more aroused, Lady Guinevere was just so alluring; and he was positive she had this affect on just about every man she met, "I…suppose I could see you after everyone is asleep, for something of a more…intimate nature. If that is what you mean?"
Her hand wandered further down his torso, until it found his growing groin, and gently squeezed it, causing him to moan slightly.
"Yes, I'd like that," Guinevere purred.
Just then, the door to the study opened slightly, but neither of them seemed to care if they were seen in this, compromising situation.
Dairren winked at her, "I look forward to it, I shall see you then," and made his way out of the study. As Dairren left the room, Ser Gilmore entered with a cold expression on his face. Guinevere cocked an eyebrow at him and turned towards the shelves, hardly surprised when she felt him behind her.
"Have a nice chat, did you?"
She nodded, "Very. We were discussing our favourite books when you arrived," she turned around to face him, "Dairren is such a good man, he maintains the same type of persona towards me at all times, even within company. Too bad not all men are like him."
Ser Gilmore pinned her to the wall, "Guinevere…my dearest Gwen. You know I want to be open about my affections for you but your father would tan my hide."
Guinevere pulled him closer, "In case you didn't remember, Rory, my father is going away for Maker knows how long. Which means, that this castle, is under my command and you can ravish me in front of everyone and they can't do a damned thing about it."
He kissed her passionately, "Please, Gwen. Don't do this," he kissed her again, "Don't lay with him tonight, my love."
Guinevere kissed him tenderly, before slipping out of his grip and out the door, leaving Ser Gilmore alone in the study. He was so overcome by jealousy and so afraid that he had lost her that he sobbed quietly into the books and did not leave the room for some time.
Meanwhile, Guinevere finally made it to her brother's room, and entered as Fergus was knelt down beside his son.
"Is there really going to be a war, papa? Will you bring me back a sward?"
Fergus laughed, "That's 'sword', Oren. And I'll find you the mightiest one I can find, I promise. I'll be back before you know it."
Guinevere's sister-in-law, Oriana, had tears streaming down her face, "I wish victory was indeed so certain. My heart is…disquiet."
"Don't frighten the boy, love. I speak the truth," he spotted Guinevere out of the corner of his eye, "And here's my little sister to see me off," he turned to his wife, "Now dry your eyes, love, and wish me well."
Guinevere felt as if she was interrupting and motioned to the door, "Should I wait outside?"
Fergus grabbed her hand, "Stay. I'd like to say farewell," his eyes were filled with pain, and he felt them swelling as Guinevere threw her arms around him and let out a small sob.
"You'll be missed, brother," the two siblings hugged each other tightly, before Fergus pulled away and wiped a tear from her eye.
"If it's any consolation, I'm sure I'll freeze in the southern rain and be completely jealous of you up here, warm and safe," both of them laughed, and Oriana commented with a chuckle.
"I am positively thrilled that you will be so miserable, husband."
Guinevere's face again turned sad, "I wish I could go with you."
Fergus nodded, "I wish you could come! It'll be tiring, killing all those darkspawn myself."
Oriana snorted, "In Antiva, a woman fighting in battle would be…unthinkable," Fergus raised an eyebrow at her.
"Is that so? I always heard Antivan women were quite, dangerous," he hissed the last word into her ear playfully.
She laughed, "With kindness and poison only, my husband."
Fergus threw up his arms in defeat, "This from the woman who serves me my tea," he chuckled. He glanced towards Guinevere and smiled.
She did not return it, "I bring a message. Father wants you to leave without him."
Fergus cursed under his breath, "Then the Arl's men are delayed," he snorted in disgust, "You'd think he men were all walking backwards!" he sighed and glanced at his baby sister, "Well, I'd better get underway. So many darkspawn to behead, so little time," he laughed and Guinevere laughed with him.
Guinevere crossed to Oren, her nephew and placed her hands on his shoulders, as Fergus approached Oriana.
He kissed her sweetly, "Off we go, then. I'll see you soon, my love," they kissed again and Fergus turned towards the door, only to almost collide with his own father and mother.
Teyrn Bryce Cousland embraced his son, "I would hope, dear boy, that you planned to wait for us before taking your leave?" he pulled back to beam at his son, and released him so that the Teryna might embrace him as well.
"Be well, my son. I will pray for your safety every day you are gone."
Guinevere mumbled under her breath, "A good shield would be more useful," causing Oren to erupt into a fit of giggles, and Fergus to kick her playfully in the shin.
Oriana did not notice, "The Maker sustain and preserve us all. Watch over our sons, husbands, and fathers, and bring them safely back to us."
"And bring us some ale and wenches while you're at it!" Fergus laughed, and then upon seeing his wife's expression added, "Err…for the men, of course," Oriana slapped his arm.
"Fergus! You would say this in front of your mother?"
Before he could reply, Oren's voice was heard, "What's a wench? Is that what you pull on to get the bucket out of the well?" Fergus, Bryce, and Guinevere all roared with laughter.
Bryce found his voice first, "A wench is a woman who pours ale at the tavern," he mumbled to Fergus, "Or a woman who drinks a lot of ale," the two erupted into a fit of laughter once more. The Teryna threw up her arms in disbelief.
"Bryce!" she scolded, "Maker's breath, it's like living with a pair of small boys," she beamed at Guinevere, "Thankfully, I have a daughter."
Fergus kissed his mother's cheek lovingly, "I'll miss you, Mother dear," he glanced at Guinevere, "You'll take care of her, Sister, won't you?"
Guinevere snorted, "Mother can handle herself, Brother. Always has."
Fergus chuckled, "It's true! They should be sending her, not me. She would scold those darkspawn back into the Deep Roads," he wagged his finger at Oren, causing him to giggle some more. Eleanor swatted his hand.
"Well, I'm glad you find this so funny."
The Teryn jumped in, "Enough, enough," he turned to his daughter, "Pup, you'll want to get an early night. You've much to do tomorrow."
"Yes, Father," Guinevere headed out the door when Fergus whispered in her ear.
"Have fun with Dairren tonight, you saucy minx," he laughed quietly as she reached her room and turned towards him.
"Oh, have no fear, Brother. I shall have a great deal of fun," she smirked and latched her door behind her.
A few hours later, there was a knock on her door. Guinevere unlatched the door and opened it to reveal Dairren. A small bit of disappointment washed over her, as she had secretly wished that Roland would be the one to visit her chambers in the dead of night. She shook it off, and invited him in. She re-latched the door, and slowly turned around. Dairren was checking out the décor, but when he turned around, Guinevere had dropped her robe and was beautifully nude. She crossed over to him and pushed him onto the bed, straddling him. He hungrily claimed her mouth as she undid his trousers, she felt his arousal pulsing and wanted him inside of her. No, she needed him inside of her.
She was appeased as he flipped her over and took her with one swift movement, earning a moan of delight from the lady. Guinevere dug her nails into his back as he continued to thrust into her. As good and satisfying as sex with Dairren felt, it was nothing compared to Roland. Then again, Rory was nothing compared to the fantasies of a handsome Bann with hair the colour of wet sand plaguing her ever since she was a young girl.
Before she knew it, Dairren had collapsed onto the bed, sleep claiming him. Guinevere felt herself drifting as well, and with her fantasies and memories replaying in her mind she fell asleep. Their sleep that lasted only an hour or two, as both woke to Briar barking and snarling at the door.
Dairren turned to Guinevere when she stirred, "I'm sorry. I've been trying to quiet him, but he just won't have it," he shook his head, "I don't know why he's so angry."
Guinevere sat up, worry on her face, "Perhaps something is wrong," she watched as Briar pawed and growled at the door and start to get up, but Dairren stopped her.
"Wait here, Guinevere. I'm going to see if there's something out in the hall," he wrapped a robe around him and opened the door. He stepped out only a few feet when an arrow went straight through his neck. Guinevere screamed, and someone then slammed the door shut.
"DAIRREN!"
Guinevere grabbed her long-sword and flung the door open. She turned in time to see a man lunging at her, and swiftly dodged to the side. She spun around and thrust her blade into the man's back. She pulled it back out and kicked the body to the floor, and started towards the archer that had killed Dairren. An archer's hands are swift, but Guinevere's feet proved swifter. She swung her sword at the archer, severing his head. She spit at the body just as another approached.
She turned, her inner warrior fueling her. She was about to lunge when she saw it was her mother, she dropped her blade and embraced her. Her mother was frantic with worry.
"Darling!" she hugged her daughter tightly, happy to see her unharmed, "I heard fighting outside and I feared the worst! Are you hurt?"
Guinevere clutched her mother's arms, choking on her tears, "Those men killed Dairren! Mother, they killed him!" she sobbed into her mother's armour,
"What? Not Landra's son! But why?"
Guinevere shook her head, "He was with me, and Briar was acting strangely, so he checked in the hall," she collapsed onto the floor and pointed towards him. Eleanor turned and gasped, "They shot an arrow through his neck, Mother. I saw it. It's my fault he's dead. If I…If I hadn't asked him to—"
Eleanor knelt beside her, "Guinevere Andraste Cousland. My darling, you did not know that when he stepped out that door it would be the last time he did so. You have wronged no one. Now you must pull yourself together, Bryce and I did not name you after Our Lady just because we wanted to. You are a symbol of hope, and you must shine bright when all other light has been extinguished," Guinevere nodded and Eleanor heaved both of them to their feet.
"A scream woke me up," she glanced at Guinevere, as she was sure it was her scream she had heard, "There were men in the hall so I barred the door," she glanced at their attackers, and gasped.
She turned to Guinevere, "Did you see their shields? Those are Howe's men! Why would they attack us?"
Suddenly, the Arl's reaction to the Grey Warden being in the castle made sense. Howe wanted the Warden dead, as well as the Couslands. His troops were delayed on purpose, to ensure that Fergus left before her father. She scoffed, as the whole situation reeked with the stench of politics. She turned to her mother, "He's betrayed Father! He attacks while our troops are gone!"
Eleanor's eyes widened, "You don't think Howe's men were delayed…on purpose?" Guinevere nodded and Eleanor's eyes darkened, "That bastard! I'll cut his lying throat myself." Guinevere quickly threw on some armour and returned to her mother. She stopped when she saw her mother's expression.
"Have you seen your father?" her voice wavered, "He never came to bed!"
Guinevere shook her head, "No I haven't. I was in my room."
"We must find him!"
Guinevere's eyes widened, "We should check on Oriana and Oren, as well."
"Andraste's mercy! What if the soldiers went into your brother's room first?" she grabbed Guinevere's hand, "Let's check on them! Quickly! Then we'll look for Bryce downstairs!" the two ran across the hall and barged into Fergus' room. Eleanor immediately screamed. Guinevere felt as if a battering ram had just been driven into her stomach. Beautiful Oriana and dear little Oren lay dead upon the floor. Blood flowed from their bodies, entwining upon the stone in grotesque silence and swiftness. Guinevere punched the doorframe in anger.
"No! My little Oren!" Eleanor let out a cry of anguish, "What manner of fiend slaughters innocents?"
Guinevere's voice was cold and low, "I'll make them pay."
Eleanor stumbled back towards the door, "Howe is not even taking hostages! He means to kill all of us!" she reached for Guinevere, "Oh, poor Fergus…let's go. I don't want to see this!"
Guinevere led her mother down the hall and into the courtyard. The clanging of swords could be heard echoing of the stone walls. Guinevere pulled her mother into an annex when they heard soldiers coming.
"Can you hear the fighting? Howe's men must be everywhere!" Eleanor shook her head in disbelief.
Guinevere was dying inside, but her training had taught her to be strong, so strong she would be, "How can we get out of the castle?" her mother thought for a moment then pointed down the path.
"The servants' passage leads out from the larder. But we must find your father first," she thought for a moment, "The front gates! That's where your father must be."
Guinevere felt her strength waning, "What if father isn't there?"
Eleanor grabbed her hands, "Listen darling, we haven't much time," she swallowed hard, "If we can't find your father, you must get out of here alive, "Guinevere tried to protest but Eleanor continued, "Without you and Fergus, the entire Cousland line dies here," she cupped Guinevere's face in her hands, "If Howe's men are inside, they must already control the castle. We must use the servants' entry in the larder to escape. Do you hear me?"
Guinevere did not need to be asked twice, "I hear you."
"Then let us be swift," the two darted around the corner and down the path, staying quiet and close to one another, as they made their way to the Great Hall. They entered swiftly and latched the door behind them. Guinevere turned towards the main doors, and relief washed over her as she saw Ser Gilmore's familiar hair.
"Go! Man the gate! Keep those bastards out as long as you can!" he turned around and locked eyes with Guinevere. When he realized who was standing there he ran over to them, "Your Ladyship! My lady! You're both alive! I was certain Howe's men had gotten through!"
Guinevere broke his gaze, "They did get through," Ser Gilmore gazed at her expectantly, but when Guinevere didn't answer, Eleanor explained.
"They killed Oriana, and Oren…I can't believe—"she spotted some blood seeping through his chainmail, "Are you injured?" Guinevere whipped around, pain in her eyes as she too spotted the blood.
He waved them off, "Don't worry about me, your Ladyship," he turned to Guinevere, "Thank the Maker you are unharmed," he motioned to the main door, "When I realized what was happening, it was all I could do to shut the gates. But they won't keep Howe's men out long. If you've another way out of the castle, use it quickly!" he started to walk away but Guinevere grabbed his arm.
"No! I'll help you hold the gates!" she couldn't lose someone else. Not tonight, not him.
He shook his head, "They won't hold! It will only delay the inevitable," he pulled her close and kissed her, "Please! Go while you have the chance!"
He started towards the doors, but turned around again, "When I last saw the Teyrn, he'd been badly wounded. I urged him not to go but he was determined to find you. He went towards the kitchen. I believe he thought to find you at the servants' exit in the larder."
Eleanor was already heading towards the door, "Bless you, Ser Gilmore. Maker watch over you!"
"Maker watch over us all."
Guinevere started towards the door, but Roland stopped her, "Did you—"
"Yes."
Ser Gilmore lowered his eyes, but Guinevere pulled his lips onto her own, in one final kiss, "It was a mistake, Rory," she turned towards the door, only looking back once before disappearing.
Ser Gilmore simply mouthed, 'I love you." Then she was gone.
Guinevere ran as fast as she could to the larder, and it was she who entered first and found her father.
"There you two are…" Gwen stared in horror as her father lay before her, blood gushing through his tattered and torn shirt. His skin was pale, and his eyes dim; as he tried to look strong for his big girl.
Eleanor ran to his side, "Bryce!"
"I had…feared the worst…"
She stroked his face, "Maker's blood, what's happening? You're bleeding!" Guinevere fell to her knees beside her father, tears swelling in her eyes.
"Howe's men…found me first. Almost…did me in right there," he groaned in pain, and clutched his wound, crimson blood flowing onto his hand.
Guinevere slammed her fists onto the ground, fire in her eyes, "I'll kill Howe for what he's done!"
Bryce coughed and nodded, "He can't…get away with this! The king will…" he groaned in pain and Eleanor pulled him close to her, his blood now trickling onto her armour.
Tears were streaming down the Teyrna's face, "Bryce! We must get you out of here!"
The Teyrn shook his head, "I…I won't survive the standing, I think."
Guinevere grabbed her father's hand, "That's not true! You'll be fine!" The Teyrn reached a hand up to stroke her cheek.
He smiled through his pain, "Ah, my darling girl…if only will, could make it so."
"Once Howe's men break through the gate, they will find us! We must go!"Eleanor pleaded to her husband.
Bryce turned to her, "Someone…must reach Fergus…tell him what has happened."
"You can tell him yourself, Father," Guinevere tried her best to sound reassuring. Her father smiled at her again.
"I…wish I could," he groaned in pain again, and winced when Eleanor tried to lift him.
"Bryce, no! The servants' passage is right here! We can flee together, find you healing magic!"
The Teyrn softly shushed his wife, "The castle is surrounded…I cannot make it."
"I'm afraid the Teryn is correct," Guinevere turned to see Duncan, the Grey Warden entering the larder, "Howe's men have not yet discovered this exit, but they surround the castle. Getting past will be difficult."
"You are…Duncan, then? The Grey Warden?"
"Yes, your Ladyship. The Teyrn and I tried to reach you sooner."
Eleanor nodded to Guinevere, "My daughter helped me get here, Maker be praised."
Duncan smiled briefly at her, "I am not surprised."
Guinevere bowed her head in respect, "Thank you for saving my father."
Duncan shook his head, "I fear your thanks are premature. I doubt I have saved him," he gazed at Guinevere and she could see and hint of sadness in his eyes. Eleanor held her husband close.
"Whatever is to be done now, it must be done quick! They are coming!"
Teyrn Cousland reached for Duncan's hand, "Duncan…I beg of you…take my wife and daughter to safety!"
"I will, your Lordship. But…I fear I must ask for something in return," he held the Teyrn's gaze, and Guinevere knew what boon he would request.
"Anything."
"What is happening here pales in comparison to the evil now loose in this world," he briefly glanced at Guinevere, "I came to your castle seeking a recruit. The darkspawn threat demands that I leave with one."
Bryce nodded slowly, "I…I understand."
Guinevere interrupted, "But what if something has happened to Fergus?"
Duncan clapped a hand on her shoulder, "The king will see justice done. The Grey Wardens, however, must face the darkspawn above all else."
Guinevere looked pleadingly at her father, but he nodded, "He is…right, Pup."
Duncan turned to Bryce, "I will take the Teyrna and your daughter to Ostagar, to tell Fergus and the king what happened. Then, your daughter joins the Grey Wardens."
Bryce winced in pain, and was now sitting in a very large pool of blood, his face paling, "So long as justice comes to Howe…I agree."
Duncan turned his attention to Guinevere, "Then I offer you a place within the Grey Wardens. Fight with us!"
Guinevere glanced at her father and mother before answering, "I accept your offer."
Duncan nodded, "We must leave quickly, then," he rose to check the door.
Eleanor turned to her husband, "Bryce, are you…sure?"
"Our daughter will not die of Howe's treachery," he gazed at her, full of pride," She will live, and make her mark on the world," Eleanor started to rise then stopped, she took a deep breath and spoke to Guinevere, still looking at Bryce.
"Darling, go with Duncan. You have a better chance to escape without me."
"Eleanor…"
Eleanor placed a finger on his lips, "Hush, Bryce," she kissed him softly, "I'll kill every bastard that comes through that door to buy them time. But I won't abandon you."
Guinevere embraced her family one last time, "I love you both, so much," she whispered.
"Then live, darling. Become and Grey Warden and do what is right."
The gate was breached, and Duncan hurried Guinevere through the passage and out of the castle. She glanced back one more time at Highever, and swore that she'd slaughter Rendon Howe as it was engulfed in flames.
Bryce Cousland was fading fast, and Eleanor held him close, "Hush, my love. We've had a long and happy life, but it is up to our children now."
