Lady Elissa Cousland of Highever is the youngest child of the Teyrn and Teyrna of Highever. As such she has never wanted for anything. At the age of five, her father insisted she learn so sword craft, but her heart lay with the past so she sort the life of an academic. Realising his daughter's desire, Bryce Cousland hired the best academics to teach her which earned her a place at the University of Orlais at the age of eighteen. She was school in Val Royeaux under the careful supervision of her aunt who would not see her niece indulge in Orlesian pursuits. Three years later, Elissa returned to her homeland with the qualifications that would allow her to become Court Historian when the current one passed on. For the last two years, she has acted as Lord Henty's assistant in Denerim.
Lady Cousland is considered a beauty within Ferelden. Many a suitor has attempted to win her hand but following an unpleasant experience with a Chevalier in Orlais, Lady Cousland has little desire to settle down.
News of the Blight results in Lady Cousland returning to Highever to make preparations for the war. It is at this time she meets Warden-Commander Duncan, who announces that despite her lack of sword skills, she is a prime candidate for the Grey Warden's of Ferelden.
Lady Cousland is none too impressed.