Dragon Age Origins:
Last of the Couslands
Disclaimer: I don't own any rights to Dragon Age, its script or characters. Also I make no money from this Fan-fiction.
Chapter One: Castle Cousland
I'm training with some of the castle guards out in the courtyard when I receive a message from my father, asking me to meet him in the main hall.
I know he's speaking to Arl Howe today about Ostagar, the guy creeps me out if I'm honest… just a strange almost apprehensive feeling I get whenever our families meet. But since I cannot provide any proof to back up my suspicions I'll just have to represent house Cousland as best I can.
Father introduces me once I arrive and I smile nodding my head towards Arl Howe, a hard thing to do especially as his eyes wander my body from head to toe. See what I mean… creepy, does it so subtly that my father is unable to notice.
I narrow my eyes at this and try to distract his attentions by asking if he has brought his family with him to Highever.
"Is your family here, Arl Howe?"
"Oh no, I left them in Amaranthine, well away from the fighting in the south. They do send their best wishes"
"My son Thomas asked after you. Perhaps I should bring him with me next time."
Thomas isn't a bad guy but he's had a crush on me since we were little. Something I share no interest in returning, at least he is quite different than his father and keeps a respectful distance.
"To what end?"
"Ha, surely Thomas' affections do not offend you so?" he sneers.
Arl Howe's always wanted a match between our houses and detests the fact my father has allowed me to train as a warrior. Probably thinks that Thomas will be able to tame me and allow his father more control though the marriage.
Luckily my Father chooses this moment to interrupt.
"My fierce girl has her own mind these days, maker bless her heart".
I breathe a sigh of relief when he says that. It's my father's subtle way of saying he has no intention of forcing my hand and making me marry.
I've not told him but I think he suspects my true interests lie with Women rather than men.
I smile at him, secretly thanking him for the acceptance. I love my father and am glad he doesn't simply expect heirs from me because we are nobility.
"At any rate pup, while your brother and I are away, I'm leaving you in charge of the castle."
"I'll do my best Father"
I'll admit I am a little nervous at being left in charge on my own. I'd rather be accompanying father and my brother to help them fight against the Darkspawn. But someone needs to keep the castle ready and prepared for their return.
"There's also someone you must meet. Please… show Duncan in."
A grey warden, their orders quite mysterious from what I've heard. They fight against the Blighted Darkspawn and are the only warriors that can kill the Archdemon leading them.
Why is it that only they can kill the Archdemon though?
When I questioned my teacher Brother Aldous he was unable to provide an answer, saying only that the wardens themselves are the only ones who know. The fact they keep that a secret unnerves me.
"Duncan is looking for recruits, I believe he's got his eye on Ser Gilmore."
"If I Might be so bold, I would say that your daughter is also an excellent candidate".
Taking a step back at the comment I reply as politely as I can.
"Whilst I appreciate the compliment I've no interest in becoming a Grey Warden. I have responsibilities here, my family needs me".
"Indeed honour though that may be, this is my daughter we're talking about. With me and Fergus both travelling to Ostagar I do not think my wife would take too kindly to the news of her only daughter leaving as well." He says stepping in front of me.
He's right. Mother may be able to deal with me training with a sword and shield, and even refusing to wear dresses since I reached the age where I could dress myself. But she would never let me go into battle leaving her with no family left.
I couldn't do that to her anyway so I can accept being left to look after the castle.
"Have no fear. Whilst we need as many good recruits as we can find, I've no intention of forcing the issue". Replies Duncan.
At that my Father and Duncan continue the discussion, leaving me to fill the frosty silence forming with Arl Howe. I start by asking him some more about his and my father's history as friends. Eventually he changes the conversation to, not subtly either, his sons' interest in me again.
"The young and their infatuations" he grins.
Taking note of the apprehensive look on my face he continues.
"Too be honest, I have no expectations. And your father seems determined to let you find your own way".
"Yes… I've yet to find a suitable match". I say forcing a smile.
"Hmm but if something did happen… well, we'd address it as befits a family of our stature."
"Don't hold your breath" I scoff losing my patience.
Surprised yet seemingly satisfied with his success in making me lose my temper he adds
"Your father's permissiveness has made you will-full, indeed. It may not always serve you so well".
I raise an eyebrow at this, sounds like a threat to me. Arl Howe really doesn't take too kindly to being refused what he wants.
Ignoring the remark I turn to my Father.
"Father is there anything else you need of me?"
"Yes, Pup. Please find Fergus and tell him to lead the troops to Ostagar ahead of me". "Arl Howe's troops are delayed" he adds seeing the question forming in my mind.
"Of course Father". I nod my head to Duncan and Arl Howe before leaving the main hall in search of Fergus.
I can feel eyes watching me leave, most likely Arl Howe's so I'm great-full to close the doors behind me blocking his view.
My instincts tell me this delay of his troops is just too well timed. I know I must sound a little paranoid but most of our troops are going to Ostagar with my brother, which leaves the castle practically empty when Howe's troops arrive. Easily a good time to stage a coup.
Hope everyone enjoyed reading this. I know it uses a fair bit of dialogue from the game but I'm just trying to portray my wardens thoughts on things for the most part (the parts in Italics) if this is popular enough i plan to eventually cover the whole game. Please keep in mind though that this is my first Dragon Age fic so any advice and reviews would be appreciated.