Our options were exhausted. Our mages weary and shaky, from the concentration. The Archdemon however, was severely wounded. I made my choice, the next time it would open it's maw, I would strike. I felt Duncan's sword and dagger steady in my hands, both balanced and light. I smeared venom on both blades quickly and broke into a run. I could hear the shouts of Alistair behind me. He was distracting, and I looked at Morrigan, she nodded and threw up a tempest storm with her last remaining mana. With the winds, rain and lightening, Alistair was held back. Angrily he bellowed for me to stop. I, myself had no doubts the ritual had worked.
I launched my small frame into the air, pivoting and landing on the face of the Archdemon, impaling both blades into it's skull. It screamed and thrashed with unholy strength. I arched back, withdrawing the blades, twisting them again, hard into bone. The resistance of bone and sinew bending and snapping excited me. I saw the venom well up and pool into the wounds. I slid the blades out a third time and wounded the Archdemon anew. Suddenly it screamed as a pillar of pure white light erupted from it's mouth. I was thrown into the air. I heard Alistair cry out as my body tried to control it's plummet. I hit the ground with a crash. The pain was blinding. Then blackness.
The sun was blinding when I finally opened my eyes. Alistair was sleeping in the chair by my bed, and it was Wynne who alerted our friends that I was stirring. The look on everyone's faces was of pure disbelief and joy, they had expected me to die along with the Archdemon, and only three of us knew of the dark ritual. "Come now, everyone. Let's leave these two alone. We have to prepare for the coronation ceremony." Wynne smiled at me as she ushered the troop out the doors, and closed them behind her. I looked at Alistair quizzically "I thought they planned for the ceremony on the eve after the battle? Wait…how long was I out?" But Alistair just smiled, "It's only been a day. We wanted to make sure you came through. I wanted you to be there…I have a surprise for you then." He drew me in, and sighed. My head just resting under his chin. I felt his voice rumble in my ear. "You scared me. I thought I lost you. I don't know what I would do without you with me." I leaned deeper into his arms. "Alistair, I promised, didn't I?" He chuckled and we stayed in each other's arms until we were summoned to the ceremony.
I watched as my King was blessed by the Reverend Mother and turned to face the roaring crowd. He had won over even the most hardened hearts after all. Alistair held up his hand, and they fell silent. "My friends, we have succeeded against impossible odds.
And although the Darkspawn are not gone, they have been dealt a mighty blow. And if not for our allies, this would not be possible. One individual in particular has risen among the ranks. I scarcely remember the nervous new Grey Warden recruit who stands before me, instead she has been replaced by a strong, noble fighter. Ladies and Gentlemen of the court, may I present my betrothed and your future Queen." My body moved on it's own. I've always been nervous in front of crowds, and as a noble I've had experience with this many times, but never as the complete and utter center of attention. Maker please don't let me trip! I stood facing Alistair, his face beaming. "My friend as a boon, and also an engagement present," I smirked as I saw the mischievous look he gave me, "I have decided to begin construction on a monument to the fallen. There was a time, during our travels, when you made plans to honor those lost. I have never forgotten this, nor my promise to help you." I bowed my head, and knelt before Alistair's feet, feeling suddenly very humble. "My Lord, I wish to serve the crown." My throat became tight with emotion. If things have gone differently I would be lying in a stone sarcophagus right now. Every moment of this, was a gift. I sensed movement above me, and out of the corner of my eye, saw something sparkle in the light. "As a symbol of my gratitude and affection, I present to you the most precious item I own. You may recognize it, for you were the one who found it for me. It's my mother's pendant, may you wear it as a display of my love for you." The cool metal chain was slipped around my bowed neck, and my hand shaking, clasped the pendant. The crowd erupted into cheers of approval. "Then, rise my dear. Your public awaits," Alistair offered his arm.
We walked to the open doors of the estate and gazed upon the massive crowd. It felt like every soul in Fereldan was cheering us on. Cheering for the most impossible of all love stories, the most incredible victory. Alistair leaned into me, "Tell me what will you do now? I heard Zev talking about taking you on more adventures. Lelianna wants you to journey with her as well. There are more Darkspawn in the Deep Roads as well…" his voice trailed off. "Alistair, I don't plan on going anywhere without you for a while, I imagine you could use a woman's touch to this whole ruling thing." I grinned at him, as he rubbed the back of his neck shyly. "Well I was hoping you would, but I didn't want to come right out and say it." I laughed and we waved to the crowd. He suddenly glanced at me, "You really want to make them go wild? Watch this!" I was embraced by his arms the next instant, my body dipping backwards, and his lips capturing mine. I felt myself go weak, this was bold, even for Alistair! And sure enough the people of Fereldan were overjoyed to see how much their King loved me.