A Cousland's Duty

by Sirya Ebony Black

First in the Daughter's of Amell Series. Cousins Elissa and Solona along with Alistair have to fulfill their roles in a Prophecy. To a Cousland duty comes first. Elissa must do everything she for family, country and Wardens to see them all through the Blight. She has help in the form of the group they gather, each member will have their own roles to play in the coming trials.

10. Chapter 10

Part 6

They took the same route back to Orzammar that they had taken when they left, still trying to avoid as many people as possible. This time when they arrived the dwarven guards at the door had been doubled and there were only two soldiers belonging to Loghain waiting and looking very bored off to the side. They had no gear with them, which meant they had a camp, likely with more men nearby. The guards were far enough away that Elissa could get close enough to talk in low voices without being overheard.

"Hail, Serah." Elissa said softly.

"I'm sorry, but the doors of Orzammar are closed until a new king is crowned." The guard said in a remote tone, as if he'd repeatedly told this to everyone and was tired of having to repeat himself.

Elissa winced and heave a sigh. "I am sorry for your loss, Serah." She replied softly. "We hadn't heard that, only that the King had been sick."

The guard nodded in acceptance of the condolences. "It will be some time before the coronation of the new king can be organized."

Elissa acknowledged him. "I am going to show you something that might change things for us, but please don't say anything that Loghain's men over there can overhear." She explained before pulling out Duncan's Grey Warden Commander Seal, she had a feeling she would need it this morning.

The Dwarf looked surprised, but quickly recovered. "The Wardens are always welcome in our halls, even at times like these." He said quietly, understanding why she was being discrete. The Dwarves were never going to care nor believe the lies Loghain's men had been spreading. The Wardens were too useful to the Dwarven Nation for them to care.

Elissa smiled in thanks. "Perhaps we can pretend we have items needed to help with the succession debate as an excuse to be allowed in. We are a very diverse group and not all wardens yet."

The guard looked over towards the party standing with the dwarf merchants across the merchant encampment. He growled slightly. "That merchant, Bodahn cannot enter, and he should not stay here while you are inside. But all Wardens and their recruits are welcome in Orzammar at anytime."

Elissa nodded again. "I'll be back shortly with the rest, and I'll send Bodahn away." She bowed and backed away.

She smirked as she approached the party. "We're in." She announced softly. "Bodahn, if you could go back to Kinloch Hold or Soldier's Peak and help them out there, we can meet up again once we are done here."

"Of course, Serah." He said with a bow."My boy and I can make much profit and gather information for you while you are here."

The dwarven merchant had been more than pleased with his profits and adventures he had been a part of since joining the party. More important to Bodahn was the fact that they valued his son and treated him with respect and kindness. Even the evil looking Wilds Witch watched interested when Sandal enchanted his runes. Elissa had not judged him for his scavenging either, in fact the party had done the same and sold the items to him at fair exchanges. In sending him to Kinloch and Soldier's Peak he could help her, and make a profit helping the Tower.

Elissa looked relieved. "That was the good news, the bad news is that the king died; there is no king at the moment."

"What does that mean for us?" Solona asked anxiously.

"We could be here for quite some time," She explained exasperated with the political maneuverings that might be involved with this level of politics, "and if we want to be unnoticed we are not going to be able to come and go. Once we enter those doors we are there until we deliver the treaty to the new king." She warned.

"I will deliver that message to Warden Cara for you Commander." Bodahn bowed to her. "Last time it took four months, and eight assassinations before the Old King was ratified." That news was disturbing for quite a few of the party, but Elissa wasn't surprised, she had known that already.

"Only eight? That was an easy ascension then." Elissa said incensed. "Hopefully this one will be just as easy and quicker."

"Wait, we are going to be underground for how long?" Alistair asked, he was astonished by the idea of so much time being wasted during a Blight.

Elissa looked grim, "As long as it takes. Hopefully it won't take months this time."

"You said months!" Alistair exclaimed. "We can't ignore the Blight that long!"

Solona looked away with frustration. "At least when we are done here Loghain will likely be too busy to be looking for us. We'll be out of sight where no one will be able to report back on us."

Rory agreed. "As a bonus we can apply some pressure by telling them there is an Archdemon somewhere in the Deep Roads. They will be more likely to pressure a vote if they know they might have to face it."

"We will do just that. Any pressure we can apply we will. I just need to figure out who is being considered for King and who to side with. Last I heard there were three heirs and the oldest was considered an isolationist. Not a good candidate for us." She explained.

"If I may, Serah," Bodahn interrupted. "But with the recent events there is only one heir to the throne left. The others were killed only about a month ago."

Elissa growled and rubbed her forehead in frustration. "Well that should cut down on the amount of time, unless there is more than one challenger." This was why she hated Orzammar politics. You never knew who was going to still be alive in the morning.

"According to rumors only Lord Harrowmont is challenging the Prince." Bodahn told her. "He was the old King Endrin's High General. He's also not a good replacement for the surface and Ferelden. He too is an isolationist, and likely the source of the Old Prince's views. Additional he would have been bad for the poorest of Dwarves. "

Elissa raised a brow at his assessment. "What makes you say so?"

"You must understand the Dwarven caste system to understand." He said sadly.

"I know the basics." She told him. "Very basically there are clan expectations, merchant clans, noble clans, smith clans and such and then there are the casteless." She explained to the others. "What occupation you have it determined by the family you are born into. Needless to say most Carta Dwarves are casteless." The party was quietly watching the exchange but she could see most of them were following along.

"It is much more complicated than that." Bodahn retorted politely.

Elissa grinned. "I know, but we don't have time to explain much more than that."

Bodahn once more bowed his head to acknowledge her, and he caught her meaning to speed things along. "Lord Harrowmont would see us continue to hold to the traditions that have decimated the Dwarves reducing us to only two cities; Orzammar and Kal-Sharok near the Hunterhorn Mountains on the border of the Anderfels and Nevarra."

"What is the political stance of the last living Prince?" Elissa asked.

Bodahn looked thoughtful. "He, at least, is willing to change the way things are. He's of the opinion Orzammar needs more trade with the surface and he's willing to do away with the casteless by allowing them to join the army."

Elissa was suspicious. "There has to be a catch. This is Orzammar."

Bodahn shrugged. "To human morals Prince Bhelen will not be appealing because he is rumored to have had his older brother killed, and his sister framed for the murder and sent to the Deep Roads which is the current form of the Death Sentence in Orzammar."

"That is horrible!" Alistair gasped.

"That's Dwarven politics, unfortunately." Elissa rubbed her forehead trying to relax the headache she could feel forming. "I can see why it would be a concern. Still, he is the Prince and as such he is the rightful Heir." She turned her full attention back to Bodahn. "From what you've said he is the best candidate for Ferelden once the Blight is over."

Alistair looked at her in surprise. "He is? But he's a murderer!"

"So are we according to rumors, and like us, there is no proof or this Harrowmont would have used to already to charge the Prince with treason." She bowed her head and pinched the bridge of her nose. "We'll have to see how the public is leaning but hopefully they will be done quickly." She brought her head back up and placed a hand on Bodahn's shoulder. "Thank you for your advice. I know being here is difficult for you."

"Think nothing of it, Serah." He bowed with respect and a smile for her. "I'll see you when you return." With that he walked back to his wagon and began to pack up their things for the return trip in the morning. The Party quickly unpacked their supplies from the wagon and horses.

"What should we do with them since we'll be gone so long?" Solona asked as she placed her gear inside her backpack.

"There are no real arrangements for long term stabling here." Elissa looked around for a solution, not finding one she looked towards the wagon sadly. "Bodahn is going to have to lead them back to Kinloch Hold stables for us." she looked back at the merchant with concern.

Solona followed her gaze. "Some of us should go with him." She said uncertainly. "He'll need extra protection on the roads, in particular if he has extra horses."

Elissa agreed with her. "We should spare at least two." She looked back at the party, "Who do you suggest we send?"

Solona looked back at the group. "Sten will be a good guard. He's big enough and intimidating, which would make him a better choice to leave behind."

Elissa nodded and looked over the rest of the party. "Good choice, who else do you suggest?"

Solona blushed as she realized she was being cornered into make her first command decision. "Morrigan; we are going into a political situation and she is too abrasive. Also her magic would be useful to them if they get in a bad situation. She can heal very minor wounds now too." It was also a chance to get rid of the mage for a while so she could openly look at and discuss the grimore without worrying she would see it.

Elissa smirked, amused by Solona's weird flip-flopping of liking and hating Morrigan. "That one would be my choice too, but for different reasons."

"Her comments to Alistair are annoying you?" Solona asked with a half-hidden smile of her own.

Elissa actually laughed this time. "I find the two of them funny, to be honest. I swear she acts like a little boy tormenting her crush in the play area."

Solona laughed and poked her in her side. "Imagine if Alistair had long hair, she'd be pulling his braids."

Elissa started to picture Alistair with longer hair but her mind flashed to Cailan's dead body hung naked from the pole at Ostagar with his long hair hanging over his face. She shivered and cleared her throat. "Anyone else you think should stay?"

Solona cleared her throat, unsure why Elissa so suddenly changed directions on her. She looked back at their companions once more. "As much as I want to say Zevran, we can't let him out of our sight yet. Shale too should stay with us, if for nothing else as a guard while we sleep." Shale had insisted that she take the night watch since they left Soldier's Peak. Elissa had agreed but included at least one other with her so Shale wouldn't wake everyone doing patrols around the camp. She was still getting used to the idea of quiet walking instead of earth trembling stomps.

"Leliana uses a bow and down below that will be a liability." Elissa said, giving her own opinion on at least one member of the group..

"I was thinking the same thing. I also trust her to look after our concerns because she believes in this more than even I do at times." Solona bit her lip, she was worried about Elissa's thoughts on her doubts, but Elissa had just given her a knowing smile and nod, waiting for her in continue. "I was honestly thinking Rory should stay up here too."

Elissa blinked several times trying to hide her surprise at that last assessment. "Why?"

"They should have a Warden in case of Darkspawn raids." Solona said with certainty. "He'll gain his sensing ability soon, and that will be a huge help."

"That's more people than I feel comfortable leaving behind." Elissa admitted.

Solona sighed. "I know. I could make a case for Wynne being left behind too, but we are likely to need her if Orzammar is as tough a place as it sounds. Better to have two healers, less likely we can both be neutralized." She looked back at the group once more. "Let's send Leliana, Sten and Morrigan then."

Elissa nodded, she fully agreed with her choices, but she wanted to hear Solona's logic in choosing them to reinforce the Commander choice she was making. Solona was making huge strides in her ability to lead. She had that charisma that made people look to her. She was also logical and didn't like to play games when she had decisions to make. "Why those party members?" She finally asked her, keeping her face neutral so as to not influence her choices.

"It's a balance of skills and intimidation factors." Solona said with certainty. "While they don't have a Warden with them for sensing the Darkspawn they also don't have one to work as a beacon for them to draw them in to attack. We also have to consider the dogs. Honestly, I want to leave them here, but if we are gone for months they will become upset."

Elissa shook her head. "They won't go at all. Side-missions when they are nearby are acceptable to them, but they already know we are talking long-term and they will stay with us regardless of orders." She said to explain Mabari loyalty to Solona. "Don't take their loyalty for granted, and never treat them like anything other than the warriors they are. Adele will lose respect for you and stop obeying your orders, but she will never leave you."

She nodded her acceptance of the advice on Adele. "Well, that was my assessment of the group anyway." She looked down slightly, as if waiting for a grade from a tutor.

Elissa smiled brightly. "I suggest you give the troops their orders then, Warden-Constable." She said with a wink.

Solona looked surprised but she laughed it off. "Awful free with titles aren't we?"

"Someone has to step-up, and so far that person is you." Elissa told her seriously. "You can count on Rory in a battle situation, only because it's second-nature to him now, same with Alistair. Both will also give you advice, but right now neither has the drive to take command. Rory doesn't want it and Alistair is convinced no one would follow him, or listen, because he believes he doesn't have the right to lead."

"We'll work on that." Solona said with a smile before she walked towards the group. She called over Morrigan, Sten and Leliana and explained that she wanted them to stay with Bodahn and gather information and help Cara when possible. Leliana had looked over at Elissa for confirmation and she had nodded her agreement. Leliana had then enthusiastically agreed and almost pushed a protesting Morrigan towards the horses. Sten had looked at Solona for a moment before he gave her a small nod of acceptance and walked over to his large charger. The reduced group turned towards the gates.

Elissa had been hoping to get into Orzammar without any drama but that was not meant to be. Elissa ordered the dogs to stay out of sight of the soldiers. They ran off and circled to the steps to stay in the soldiers' blind-spot. Loghain's guards, seeing half their group getting ready to depart and the rest of them heading towards the gate, had demanded to know what was going on.

"That is of no concern to you." The gate guardian was telling the soldiers the party consisting of Alistair, Solona, Rory and Elissa in full plate, followed by Zevran in medium armor and Wynne in her Circle robes, and then Shale without armor approached.

The guard's eyes landed on Shale and he smiled. "The Assembly has agreed to allow you in to present your gift to the new King."

Elissa smiled and faked an Orlisian accent. "Merci." She thanked him and began to walk forward when Loghain's man grabbed her arm.

"You're letting some Orlisian bitch in, but not the King of Ferelden's ambassador?" He snapped.

The gate guardian gave him a cold look. "When the King of Ferelden is actually crowned, and sends a gift of this caliber, then, and only then, will we consider allowing you in."

"Uncouth Dog Lord," Elissa sniffed as she turned up her nose and pulled her arm away from the astonished guard and walked by. The rest of the party managed to get into the gate before they began to laugh, even the dogs that circled around behind them. The gate closed behind them, locking them away from Loghain's men.

"Did you see his face?" Alistair managed to puff out as he laughed as he nearly bent in half. Even Wynne who had kept to herself since the Keep was chuckling out loud. The dwarves in the Hall of Paragons were staring at the laughing group with astonishment and disgust.

"I haven't heard you pull that fake Orlisian accent and attitude since that bitch... what's her name, the Arl's wife, was bitching about Nan's cooking." Rory wiped tears of mirth from his eyes.

"Isolde." Alistair supplied, still chuckling.

"I am never going to remember that over-bred bitch's name." Rory laughed. He was leaning against Alistair to hold himself upright.

"Unfortunately I'll never forget it." Alistair said cheerfully, chuckling more to himself than with the group.

"I am uncertain what the gift it was supposed to be bringing into the City was." Shale spoke up. She had been the only one not laughing, although she had been doing what passed as smiling for her.

"That would be you." Solona said was a friendly slap on Shale's arm. "Loghain's men are going to assume you are just another golem, instead of the being of free will that you are." She explained.

"It is dumb, but I have found most squishy things are." Shale summed up. Her comment had them all smirking and chuckling again.

"The guard assumed since golems are outside of Loghain's ability to reproduce or find easily, in saying that, he hoped they might finally get the message and leave him alone." Elissa explained to Shale.

"The surface squishy things are unable to reproduce a masterpiece such as I. Why am I not surprised?" Shale asked in her uniquely condescending tone.

"It also was a convenient explanation on why he would allow us in, but not them." Solona added.

"We should move on." Elissa told them.

The group walked towards the doors leading to the city. They had barely entered the front entrance of the market when the captain of the guard walked over to them. They were directed to the local tavern called Tapsters which would have rooms available for humans. They were also told the Deep Roads were closed, as was the Assembly, until the new King was crowned.

Elissa lead the group to the Tavern and had gotten all three of the rooms fairly easily since travel was restricted for the time being. Each room only had one bed in each. While she as Solona could share along with the two dogs, the problem was the other four. Ideally Shale would room with Zevran and Wynne because she did not sleep and could watch him. That, however, left Alistair and Rory sharing what would be a small bed for two such large men. Looking at the smaller than average bed, Elissa was at a loss for what to do. Wynne, at least, had not made a comment about the room arrangements, yet.

Solona chuckled, "I bet Rory and Alistair aren't going to fit on one bed."

Elissa giggled. "Not without some serious cuddling."

Both of them laughed. "I'll see if we can arrange for a few cots. I'm sure they must have something."

It turned out they did have a few cots and so an extra one was set-up in both of the other rooms while Elissa and Solona were fine with their arrangement.

"We should split up and take a walk around the Commons first, get a feel for the place." Elissa suggested.

Solona nodded. "I'll go with Rory and Wynne."

Zevran who had been quiet until now gave her a flirty smile. "My I accompany you my delightful goddess of magic?" He said with a purr in his voice. "I would like to perhaps show you the finer things the merchants might carry."

Elissa smiled slyly. Since Solona had sicced Morrigan on Alistair she thought some payback was in order. "I think that is a great idea. Sole knows quite a bit about herbs, perhaps you can find a poison recipe she can use on her blades once she is proficient enough with them, that is."

Solona rolled her eyes. "Yes, by all means join us."

"Does it wish for me to continue to follow the pointed-eared one and squish it if it gets too unruly?" Shale asked.

Elissa smiled at Zevran's move to place himself on the other side of Solona away from Shale. "That will be quite alright. I was hoping to see if they have any of the augmentation crystals you wanted. This is likely the best place we will find any." The dogs sorted themselves out with Adele going to Solona's side and Flynn going to Elissa's.

Shale stood a little taller. "Oh I hope so. I feel absolutely naked without some form of adornment."

Elissa covered Alistair's mouth before he could say anything. "Don't." She warned him quietly. She knew him too well at this point. "Sole would have to repair your smashed foot if you say that." She smiled as she pulled back her gauntlet.

"I wouldn't dream of saying something that would result in our large, heavy friend taking insult from me." He said smoothly but his sheepish look told her she had been right about the thoughts running through his mind. She was getting much better at reading him.

The shopping trip turned out to be a very good idea and had netted them some much needed additions. Solona had found another backpack and Zevran had made a few poison recommendations for Solona that she could easily reproduce both for him and herself. Elissa had managed to find some fire, ice and lightening augmentation crystals that made Shale very happy, as well as a nice ruby. With lyrium being so easy to get within the city, Elissa had bought a supply of lyrium dust that Solona could use to replace the potions she needed.

They also learned that the population was split on who to support, but it was more for the Prince than the old General. The rumors about the Prince setting-up and killing his brother and sister were considered points in his favor rather than against him. It proved he was cunning and ruthless. Alistair had made a comment about not understanding how anyone could do that to family. Elissa had told him she would explain it later.

They had all had dinner in the Tapsters Tavern in the main marketplace. Listening to the dwarves around them talking a few other things became clear. The Nobles were deadlocked. The main sticking point had been regarding an issue about the casteless. The more traditional and most of the Warrior Caste were backing Harrowmont while the majority of the Smith and Merchant Clans were backing the Prince. It was rumored the Prince had a Casteless mistress who was influencing him.

Elissa pulled Alistair, Rory and Solona upstairs into her room to discuss the situation.

"I have my reasons for who I support, and why that is. I'll explain my thoughts after, if you want. But the three of you need to decide amongst yourselves as Grey Wardens who you support and why. As Wardens you are going to be asked at some point" Elissa told them as she sat between Alistair's legs and leaned back against his chest to listen to their debate, and to help out if they had questions.

Alistair looked disgruntled even before the debate began. "Grey Wardens don't get involved in politics." He reminded her.

"It doesn't always work out that way." Rory told him. "Even if it's unofficial someone is going to ask us who we support, or like, or some other euphemism for 'who do we back'. It would be nice to have an answer that is a group decision before any of us gets backed into a corner."

Solona thought hard, biting her lip before speaking up. "As much as I want to side with Harrowmont..." She looked disgruntled. "And I hate his name by the way..." She muttered. Every time someone said his name she felt a start at the Harrow part of his name. "I can't really see how cutting themselves off from the rest of the world is in the best interests of the Dwarven people, and it certainly wouldn't be in the Order's best interest with the Deep Roads being accessed here, or even Ferelden as a whole if they limit trade."

Alistair shook his head. "But the alternative is someone who killed his brother and framed his sister!"

"Allegedly, and that's not a bad thing to Dwarves." Rory reminded him. The conversation they had overheard earlier that evening in the common room of the tavern had chilled even him. "They seemed pretty impressed that he'd done it and only rumors of a conspiracy are circulating."

"That's not something we should be encouraging though, is it?" Alistair questioned.

"Isn't it?" Solona asked with concern. "At any cost, remember? The Dwarves are at war with the Darkspawn all the time unless there is a Blight... Can we really blame them for needing ruthless people to rule over their kingdom?" Alistair was quiet for a moment while he thought about it.

"I agree, but for a different reason." Rory agreed. "I slipped down into 'Dust Town' earlier, and it makes alienages look like the lap of luxury." He told them grimly. "The people down there are born into the poverty with no way of leaving it, except for crime or birthing a child with someone of higher rank. Bhelen at least wants to give them a way out, make them able to work and join the army. That's where his opposition is, the people who don't want to see that happen."

"So the murderer wants to help his people?" Alistair said confused. "Why?"

Solona smiled wistfully. "It's simple, because he's in love with one of them. If he can make his people stronger, and free the casteless from their roles, then he can be happy too."

"Isn't he happy now?" Alistair asked.

"She's his mistress Alistair." Elissa said sadly in a near whisper. "If he truly loves her, he'd want her as his wife."

"Oh, I never thought of that." He admitted bashfully. He should have realized that, but his knowledge of nobles was limited by those that visited Redcliffe when he was a child. A good number of them had been Orlisian and related to Isolde which left his opinion somewhat distorted.

"Harrowmont and his brother never would have allowed her to be more and even might have tried to kill her for having influence over him." Rory explained to the others. Like Elissa he'd had the same basic lessons about Dwarven politics.

Alistair shook his head. "Why would they do that?"

"They're afraid of change, afraid of losing power." Elissa explained. "Nobles are only as powerful as their influence can take them. If they don't prove they have it every so often the amount of influence they wield is diminished."

"Take Elissa and I," Rory began as he tried to clarify the issue. "As the third in line for Highever's line, and me being a third son, she could have married me and no one in the nobility of Ferelden would have cared, except maybe my father's landholders because they looked to her father for influence. But as Queen, no matter who she marries everyone will care because it will impact their ability to have influence on the Crown."

Alistair had stiffened at his explanation. "I know that much." He muttered, holding Elissa closer.

"The same applies here." Elissa told them quietly. "The Prince had to get rid of his brother because his brother would have killed her if Bhelen wasn't willing to let her go when ordered to." She looked up at him. "'The Game' is what Nobles call this petty one-upmanship. It's why both Maric and Cailan didn't acknowledge you." Alistair stiffened even more. "I don't know why Maric never said anything... but Cailan didn't know about you until six months after being crowned. He had no standing to pull you out of the Chantry without acknowledging you. And he couldn't do that with the way the Ferelden political scene was then. Cailan never really had the full support of his nobles. It was my father and Loghain's support that kept him as King."

"I thought the point of being King meant you ruled the country." He said bitterly.

Elissa closed her eyes tightly. Her temper wanted desperately to escape but she knew he deserved a better explanation then he'd been given. "If Cailan had acknowledged you, your life would have been much worse, Alistair." Her tone was laced with bitterness. "Royal Bastards are treated with even more contempt than most, and one in position to actually become King should something happen to Cailan, with your lack of training... Cailan would have been begging for a dagger in the back if he acknowledged you as his brother and heir."

Alistair was holding her tightly but his face and sputtering told everyone how he truly felt about being used that way. "I would never have..."

"You, no," Rory cut in sternly before anyone could lose their temper. "But the other nobles... Look at Loghain." He snorted with contempt. "He helped murder everyone standing between him and the throne, except his daughter and what do you want to bet if she gets in his way she'll be next."

"The nobles who think they could have controlled you wouldn't have asked you Alistair." Elissa placed her hand on his arms holding them tightly against her stomach. "They would have just done it and then tried to make you their puppet."

Everyone sat quietly for a while. "If you both want to support this Bhelen, than I agree too and support you." Alistair said quietly not looking up from where he was hiding his face in Elissa's hair. Solona and Rory agreed.

"Who did you support?" He asked in her ear.

"Bhelen; he would be best for a Blighted Ferelden, and he is a direct heir. Not supporting him would undercut my own position at the Landsmeet if it was known I supported a non-heir for the throne here." She said sadly. "I don't like it, but he does understand duty to his people. I just would have liked for him to find a better way of doing things, but this is Orzammar, not Ferelden." She admitted grimly. "And their ways are not our own and we have to accept that." With their decision made they all went their own rooms.

It took another two days before they were able to meet with a representative from both camps. They both were very interested in talking to Elissa and establishing relationships with her-once they were crowned, but due to the political climate they wished to not be seen by strangers until they could prove loyal to one faction or the other. Elissa was more than a little infuriated by their attitude.

Solona had basically set-up an office in the Shaperite with the scholars. Wynne was being pestered by a young dwarf Dagna about everything the girl could think of when it came to magic. And considering the speed her brain and mouth could move at Elissa was amazed the older woman was able to keep up. Shale had taken to staying with Solona to protect her from anyone who would try to engage her, other than young Dagna.

Rory had suggested they enter the Provings on their own merit to let Elissa blow off some steam before she showed the dwarves how deadly she could be with her blades in an explosive undiplomatic way. He'd seen Elissa in tempers before, but he could see her grief over Highever was being suppressed and she needed to find ways to release her rage at Howe and Loghain someway productive, as did he. The Provings were just the place for it in his opinion.

Wynne had joined Rory, Alistair and Elissa for the group combat, but Elissa took all the single combat bouts she could get. Her victories were lining up, and earning them quite the purse of winnings, both from the purses and the side bets Zevran and Rory was making. Zevran also had tagged along as Wynne's flirty shadow for most of the day, and watched their bouts when Wynne was in the ring.

Zevran was very amusing to Elissa. His comments and flirting with Wynne had been so hilarious that she often was being pulled from her brooding with his comments. Even Alistair who was determined to hate him had chuckled at some of his antics, especially his comments about Wynne's amazing bosom, and how it was gravity deifying. She could tell he wasn't use to being so quiet with the others, but he must have sensed the tension between Wynne and Elissa and figured he could get away with his antics with her. His comments were over-the-top teasing, and surprisingly Wynne was giving it right back.

Wynne was very different with Zevran. His teasing didn't fluster her at all, in fact, she seemed to get a kick out of it. Solona had told Elissa that flirting in the Circle being a form of entertainment, so it was likely Wynne had more experience with the teasing than her grandmotherly persona indicated. Zevran seemed even more delighted and encouraged by her reactions to his bosom jests. Although, when Elissa thought about it his comments had a hint of truth, Wynne's body and especially her breasts had held up to the ravages of time very well; she could only hope she aged half as well.

After the last round in the ring as a group, the Provings Master had asked who they fought for. This was the moment that Elissa had been anticipating. Despite being warned by Rory just a few days before Alistair was surprised they were put on the spot like this so publicly. Elissa had been ready. She knew both Bhelen and Harrowmont were looking for some type of public sentiment of support before being willing to make an appointment with them.

"I fight for myself, Elissa Cousland, heir to the throne of Ferelden." Elissa had said before motioning to Alistair. There was a small eruption of talking from the spectators. Obviously most hadn't known who Elissa Cousland was. Her status was of instant interest to the nobles in the crowd who hadn't known.

"I am Alistair and I fight for the Grey Wardens." He said proudly. There was an even louder rumble of approval from the crowd. Grey Wardens were held in great respect within Orzammar.

Rory stepped forward. "I also fight for the Grey Wardens. And the Ferelden Wardens stand with Prince Bhelen." He said with his head held up, staring down the Proving Master. Being human, the pose held an air of arrogance since he was so much taller than the Provings Master and had to cast his eyes downward to look at him. The Hall exploded with both applause and angry yells.

"We had best leave." Wynne suggested as the volume of the yelling and increased as the supporters of each faction turned on one another.

"Yes." Elissa said with disgust before leading the group out of the arena, and into the Proving Outer Chamber. "Well... that should get us in to see the Prince now I should think." She blew out a deep breath.

Zevran looked at Elissa and smirked slightly. "I have also made inroads towards the Prince's camp." He admitted.

They all turned and closed ranks around him. "What did you do?" Elissa asked, irritation at his possible actions already rubbing against her raw nerves.

"Nothing politically unwise I assure you, my future Queen." He promised, raising his hands up to ward off her anger, although he was smiling. "I just delivered some promissory notes to two local families for the Prince. It was a task unbecoming someone as powerful as you." He said with a courtly bow.

Elissa shook her head and chuckled. "Is that all you did?"

Zevran started to give her a suggestive look, but rethought it when Rory cleared his throat. "One of the nobles is actually in the Deep Roads so I left the note with his daughter. She asked we retrieve him, but I made no promises."

Elissa growled with angry approval. "Too right, we are supposed to be Wardens, not messengers."

"I did however get a permissive for entrance for the Deep Roads in case we need it for anything." He said handing the parchment over to her.

"We might need that." She said thoughtfully. "Grey Warden recruits need to be blooded before the Joining."

Zevran managed to not show how startled he was by the statement. "Anything you require, your Grace, I'll be happy to provide." His tone suggested so much more than his continued messenger services. Rory growled protectively as Alistair bristled and stepped between him and Elissa.

"I suggest you return to your contact in the Diamond quarter then," Elissa replied as if he hadn't said anything to ruffle the feathers of the protective men, "I am sure after our display over the past two days someone will want to talk to us. And at this stage I really don't care who." She did give Zevran a hard stare. "Under no circumstances are you to accept any 'side jobs'. Are we clear?" Her emphasis on side jobs portrayed her meaning not to agree to any assassinations.

Zevran nodded and gave a tilt of his head. "On your orders, Commander." He said seriously. It was an interesting habit Zevran was beginning to form. When he was dead serious about something he called her Commander, as did the rest of the party. The rest of the time when he would talk to her, or tease the others, he would use anything else. It was comforting to have a something like this 'tell' regarding his intentions."

Later that evening Zevran had told her that the Prince was interested in meeting, but he needed two more days to deal with a 'political issue' before they could meet. Elissa sighed but understood, the rumors of assassination attempts were circulating and it wouldn't be prudent to meet with strangers without taking the time to confirm identities. Still it was encouraging to see Zevran had returned with a tentative appointment time.

"So what is this political issue?" Elissa asked him quietly. She wanted more information on the rumors he'd heard, his contact seemed better informed than listening in the tavern had provided her.

"The local Carta is causing trouble and have an assassination attempt planned." He reported. "If they delay their plans then the appointment could be pushed back further."

Elissa was displeased but not surprised by the news. "I really hope it gets dealt with before then. My patience is wearing thin." Zevran nodded and walked away. Had she paid more attention to the assassin than her drink and irritation she would have noticed the gleam of excitement in his eyes.

He waited until most of the party had gone upstairs before he approached Solona who was engrossed in a book at the table and hadn't even noticed the rest had gone to bed. "I am to understand that you are the second on command of this little party, are you not my dearest Warden?"

Solona looked up at the assassin with surprise. Shale as always was nearby, so Solona didn't feel threatened by how close the elf was to her. "Not officially, but I guess so... Why?"

"It is a rather delicate situation." He purred softly. He took her hand lightly, his fingers almost caressing her palm.

She pulled her hand away as a shiver of pleasure ran up her arm. "I'm listening."

Zevran smiled widely. "Elissa can't be seen as doing favors for another, it would be beneath her station." He once more purred as he leaned forward towards her ear.

Solona nodded and held her breath. He had breathed into her ear and once more made her shiver. As much as she disliked and distrusted the elf, he was very good at seduction. "And that's important because..." She encouraged him to continue.

"The Prince needs a certain Carta leadership taken care of before he can meet with us. It is unlikely they will be dealt with before your dear cousin loses her patience with the situation and deals with them herself." He whispered to her, breathing just enough to keep her trembling.

Solona tried to control her breathing but it only ended up with her slightly panting. "So we should what? Take them down ourselves?"

"And maybe without your other loud, Warden friends...yes? They don't seem the type to be discrete." He chuckled lightly.

Solona turned her face to they were staring at one another. She hadn't realized he was so close, until her nose brushed his. "Like you are?" She asked breathlessly.

He chuckled. "But of course, no one here is aware we are planning to kill all the Carta members currently in Orzammar. They think we are lovers, teasing one another." He placed his hand on the side of her face dragging them towards him. Solona without thinking let him lead her forward to kiss him.

As their lips were about to meet Shale spoke. "Does it really think kissing that is a good idea?" Shale looked down at their surprised expressions. "It would regret such actions later would it not?"

Solona jumped back as if burned. "Yes of course." She stammered, flushing completely red. "I'll arrange everything for tomorrow night." She said to Zevran without looking at him again.
"Good night." She said quickly before almost running up the stairs to her room.

"That was not very nice my rocky friend." Zevran said with a pout.

"It was recently hurt. It does not need to be hurt again." Shale said with disinterest. She got up and followed Solona up the stairs.

Zevran was left alone in the Tapsters main hall. "Does anyone wish to have a game of Wicked Grace?" He asked the room at large, within five minutes there were eight players set-up for an all night game. Zevran smiled. It would be a good night after all.

The next day Solona seemed to be a little out-of-sorts. Alistair had been watching her all through breakfast and every time someone came down the stairs she would look up, blush and then look away with an almost relieved look on her face. He didn't know what to make of it.

"Are you going to the library again today?" He asked her as she watched Rory come down the stairs.

Solona looked completely distracted and barely looked at him, "Yes..."

"Did you know I got a dress so I can dance the Remigold for you like I promised?" He asked her.

"Oh that's good." She said as she watched Elissa come down completely failing to respond to his remark.

Alistair raised a brow at her. He looked around the group and realized the only one not down there now was Zevran, as he had just gone to bed as Alistair was coming down. Solona was still watching the stairs, meaning she was looking for the elf. He groaned and gave her arm a little shake to gain her attention. "Hey, Sole."

She finally gave him most of her attention, but her eyes darted to the stairs. "Yeah."

"Zevran's not coming down." He said with a scowl, leaning back and crossing his arms.

His words finally got her complete attention. "What? Why not?"

"He stayed up all night and just went to his own bed." Alistair said blandly.

"Oh." She said in a soft voice. "That's actually really good." She sighed in relief.

"Something I should know about... as your big brother?" He prodded her.

Solona blushed slightly but shook her head. "It's nothing to worry about." She sighed. "I just did something stupid for a second last night and..." She looked at Alistair's expression as it darkened a little. "Nothing bad..." She promised him.

Alistair sighed and sat forward. "I know how hard the next few months can be," Solona's eyes widened and she clamped her mouth shut as he continued, "It can get really intense. So don't be too hard on yourself if you do start to think, or do something that is out-of-character." He said flushing a little as he spoke.

Solona bit her lip. "I thought I had another month before that kind of thing became a problem."

Alistair sat back. "Well there is more going on than just that part of it." He sat back. "The nightmares usually get worse in the Deep Roads, and then there is a sudden increase to your strength. It's almost like it's easier to wield a weapon."

Solona nodded. "I noticed the nightmares were a little more... In focus..." She said uncertain how to describe the change. "For mages that usually means we are being manipulated by a demon or spirit, in this case I think it's proximity to the Archdemon." She told him.

He nodded to her. "Yeah. That's what I think too." He looked a little bashful as he continued. "I'm still changing too." He admitted softly. "I am now able to sense where any of the wardens are even if we are split up within Orzammar itself since the city is so compact."

Solona was surprised. "So when I'm in the Diamond district, you know that?"

Alistair nodded while a little embarrassed and worried how she'd take the news, because of his background. "Yup, no phylactery required." He joked, Solona chuckled and hit him in the arm. "Of course I don't know it's you personally. Just a warden." He assured her, not wanting her to think he was watching her like a Templar would.

"Do wardens feel different than Darkspawn?" She asked, her curiosity suddenly peaked.

Alistair thought on that. "Mostly... It's a very subtle difference." He finally said. "More the feeling is... less intense with us. If the warden was older, like Duncan, it's not so different that I'd be able to tell for certain at a distance, but closer, say a mile, yes I can tell darkspawn from a warden easily."

She nodded. "Ok... That's actually really interesting to know. Thank you." She told him with a small smile, her thoughts thinking about everything she was learning. Perhaps it would be a good idea to make a diary of her own to confirm the differences between Rava's experiences and those of Blight Wardens.

"Hey that's what big brothers are for, or at least that's what I've been told." He chuckled sadly trying not to think about the last time he saw Cailan's body.

She put her hand on his shoulder and put her head down as she laughed. "You are a very good big brother Ally." She kissed him on the cheek. "And thank you for not asking."

He gave her a worried look. "Should I have asked?"

She shook her head. "Nothing happened." He looked relieved. "And as a brother you wouldn't have wanted to know if it had." She chuckled. Alistair stuck out his tongue at her, but tucked back into his breakfast.

She thought back on Zevran's suggestion that the others not be involved and disagreed. Alistair couldn't be there since someone had to stay with Elissa, but Rory would be a good choice to come along. She also wanted the rest of them there for back-up. With Sten, Leliana and Morrigan gone, their strength was reduced, and without Elissa or Alistair that strength was reduced further. She'd feel better if Rory were there.

"I do need you to do something for me tonight." She said with a wicked grin.

Alistair moved his upper body away from her and answered her with a very wary look. "Yes?"

"Can you keep Elissa busy tonight, without drawing attention to the fact that the rest of us will be out, possibly for most of the night?" She asked him.

Alistair blinked in confusion. "I am pretty sure I can. Why?"

Solona shrugged. "I have something I need help doing and I don't want Elissa to know about it, so I can't tell you either."

"Is this one of those things we aren't supposed to being doing?" He asked, his eyes narrowed with suspicion.

Solona chuckled. "I can't tell you that! If I say yes, then you know something, and if I say no, you still know too much."

"And you need Zevran but not me?" He asked looking slightly jealous.

She looked at him. "You'd rather he kept Elissa occupied?" She chuckled at the sour face he made.

Alistair quickly shook his head. "No! Of course not."

"Then don't ask any more questions." She sat back smugly as he tried several times to say something but finally he gave up. "I will answer everything when we get back, ok?" She promised him.

He shook his head, but didn't refute her anymore. "I don't like it... but I trust you, and I will keep a sense on you." He said referring to his new ability.

"I wouldn't expect otherwise." She chuckled as she patted his hand.

Alistair had been a little nervous when he walked up to Elissa that afternoon to ask her to go on a date with him. Until now there hadn't been any way they could go on one before due to a lack of any type of entertainment or dining opportunities in the middle of the wilderness.

He'd asked around and found out there was a place in the diamond district that did fine dining, and they were thrilled with the prospect of serving a warden and the future queen of Ferelden. He'd asked Solona and Wynne to see if they could find her a dress. There was also an evening Proving that night, although he wasn't sure he wanted to do that. He'd rather have an evening of talking over a good meal alone with her. In a way he was happy they had time alone.

He found a good shirt with some new leather pants that he could wear under his armor later if he needed to. They were a little tight for regular outerwear use, but it was the only thing they had in his size and he was lacking decent clothes for that level of dining. He was blushing when Elissa had made him turn slowly when he came to her room to pick her up. When she walked up and kissed him deep and hard he rethought going out for a moment. Elissa had insisted he wear his cloak to cover his behind because the pants did indecent things to his anatomy. That had left his cheeks in a heightened shade of pink for several minutes.

Dinner had been wonderful. They had been ushered to a walled off darkened section of the dining room with candles making their dinner very romantic. Their conversation centered around getting to know each other better. They'd talked a little about the future. They had been there slowly enjoying the several courses and sample sized glasses of suggested wines and ales with each dish for several hours. The dinner had been designed to take a great deal of time with small portions every half hour.

"I know this seems fast, but I have really never felt so... " Alistair searched for the right word. "I really don't know how to describe this feeling." He admitted after giving up after a moment of thought. "I just know that I've never felt it before and I never want it to end."

Elissa blushed and reached out her hand to place it over his. "I know what you mean. I have so many bad things trying to crowd my mind all the time, but when I think of you, and the things you say I can feel some of that hurt, anger and frustration just disappear." She admitted softly.

Alistair just stared into her eyes, the candle light was making them seem mysterious and alluring. Her hair was a deep dark red in the candlelight. The light from the candle made the golden flecks in her eyes gleam like gems.

"Maker's Breath, but you are beautiful." His voice a breathless husky whisper of awe. Elissa looked down and blushed softly. The flickering of the candles making the shadows play across her face. "I must be the luckiest man alive." He said as he brought his hand to the side of her face, in part so he could touch her, but more because he needed to know she was real in that moment, and not some Fade dream.

"Or I'm the luckiest woman." She shyly replied, placing her hand over his and leaning into his touch.

"I'm so glad we did this." He said, caressing her other hand on the table as he slowly pulled his hand back from her face, but letting his fingertips caress her cheek as he pulled them away slowly.

She giggled softly. "I'm surprised the others haven't interrupted us by now." Alistair looked guilty and she noticed right away. "Why do I get the feeling you know why?" She teased him.

"I don't!" He defended himself quickly. "I really don't!" He said as she gave him the look he found hard to resist confessing everything to her.

She raised her brow and shook her head. "So they didn't tell you." She chuckled.

He looked down bashfully. "Sole said it was for the best, and I decided to do this so you wouldn't worry about them." He looked hopefully at her. "Besides I really wanted to spend a night together getting to know you better, just like this."

She smiled lovingly at him. "This is perfect Alistair, thank you." He felt his heart swell with warmth and happiness.

Elissa was waiting in her room with her arms crossed as Solona dragged herself into the room at sometime just before what would be dawn on the surface. She was soaked and had bits of grime and gore still on her.

After killing the majority of the Carta and their leader Jarvia along with her minions, the party had washed as much of the blood off themselves as they could so they wouldn't be noticed on the walk to Tapsters, hence the soaked hair and armor. Coming up out through Dagna's family smith shop had been a surprise, but a good one since they'd only had to go such a short ways to get to the inn.

Solona sighed as she dumped her backpack as well as Elissa's on the floor. "Before you start. It was my decision to exclude you from the mission." She slumped down on the floor and began to pulled her gauntlets and boots off, rather than risk getting the bed wet.

"And I suppose it was your decision to do whatever you did on your own as well." She snorted, not believing it for a moment.

Solona stared her down, "Actually it was." She said proudly.

Elissa didn't know if she should hit her or congratulate her. "Well..." She bit her lip with confusion

"Well what?" Solona asked, she was too tired to think clearly at that moment, and all she wanted was to get her armor off and get to sleep. She began to pull at the straps holding her breastplate on. She'd used almost all her mana and it was going on twenty-four hours since she'd had any sleep.

"Oh Maker's Breath!" Elissa exclaimed with frustration and she pushed Solona's hands out of the way and began unbuckling her armor for her. "What were you doing that required you to leave Alistair and me behind?"

Solona groaned in relief as the armor come off. "Maker! I have no idea how Templars can stand to wear this stuff all the time." She moaned. Even with the plate mail being made a feather-light fade metal, it was still more armor than Solona had ever even imagined wearing. Even after a couple of weeks it was still taking her time to get used to the extra weight and how it moved.

"Sole! I swear I will hit you if you don't tell me soon." Elissa growled as she pulled hard at the straps holding her greaves on.

Solona sighed as she began to fully strip down. "We did something that you can't be tied to."

"And that was?" Elissa pressed.

Sole looked at her crossly. "Do you really think I should tell you?'

"Please tell me Zevran didn't talk you into anything." Elissa pleaded.

Solona looked away. "He might have had a point and I decided to go and do something about it."

Elissa's jaw dropped in shock. "He talked you into assassinating someone?"

Solona scoffed. "I wouldn't ever assassinate anybody." Elissa began to take a deep breath in relief. "We took out the Carta that was threatening the people of Dust Town and trying to kill the Prince." Solona said as finished laying her wet under clothes out in front of the fire Elissa had thoughtfully kept going.

Elissa stared at her in complete disbelief. "You did what?" She nearly yelled, catching herself just in time and managing to keep her voice at a reasonable decibel.

"Jarvia's Carta is dead, or at least everyone in their base is dead." Solona sighed in relief as she finally climbed into bed naked, too tired to even get into a shift to sleep in.

Elissa began to hyperventilate. "Rory and everyone who went with you-"

Solona yawned. "All fine." She mumbled as she waved Elissa away. "Used too much mana, going to sleep now." She groaned and slipped into sleep almost immediately.

Elissa stared at her cousin, who only a month ago had never killed anybody before. Now she didn't even bat an eye at killing possibly a hundred people in a single night. Elissa was both proud of her for making a hard choice and following it through, willing to take on the consequences, and wanting to strangle her for taking such risks without evaluating it with herself first.

She walked out of the room as calmly as she could before she pushed open Rory and Alistair's door which wasn't locked, without knocking. Rory was waiting for her in front of his fireplace. He'd laid his clothes out too, but he'd taken the time to dress in dry clothes knowing she was going to come stalking over. Alistair looked to be asleep.

Elissa sat in front of the fireplace on the floor facing him. "What happened?" She said as calmly as she could.

"Zevran knew the location and way into the Carta base." Rory explained. "Solona said that we needed to end the deadlock so we could get in the see the Prince which wasn't going to happen until they were dealt with."

Elissa groaned, knowing that Solona and Zevran had been right, but not liking how far they were being drawn into the political game. "I know, but why not me and Alistair?"

Rory smiled. "A Queen and her Consort do not play messenger or take out a Carta. They send their most trusted and discrete troops. And in this case Solona wanted you to have plausible deniability." He smirked. "Although I think Zevran instigated the whole thing. He knows something we don't. Likely that the Prince wouldn't met with us without another action to prove ourselves to be in his corner so to speak."

Elissa snorted knowing that was likely true. For someone who had only been there a few days Zevran was already more integrated into the underground network than anyone else was. "No one is going to believe I didn't know about this."

Rory chuckled. "No, but they are going to wonder just how good your political face is since you couldn't have given anything away tonight either."

Elissa blushed, it had been quite late when she realized that Alistair and she had not been interrupted once during their 'date'. "Did she do well?" She asked quietly.

Rory chuckled and gave her a positive response. "She did very well... She led, but let me arrange the fight tactics. She used everyone's abilities the way a leader should. You'd have been proud."

Elissa looked to Alistair. "You or Alistair should be the first to get the Warden-Commander position." She told him quietly.

"No." Rory said sternly. "Alistair does not want it, especially since it will mean he'd hardly ever see you if he does take it." He said meaningfully. "He'll still do his duty, you know that, but he'll never want command as long as someone he trusts can do the job instead. I don't know if that will ever change, but right now that's the way it is."

Elissa looked away. "I've been thinking about what Wynne said, about being selfish and duty."

Rory sighed and shook his head with annoyance. "You were right 'Lissa when you defended yourself against her accusations." He said lifting her face with his fingers. "You have more than your fair share of burdens. You need someone you can rely on to be there to help you. Alistair is that person." He nudged her chin to make her smile if only for a small moment.

"But he has his own calling." She said sadly.

Rory pulled her into his lap and breathed into her hair rubbing her back like he had when they were younger. When she had first began to have responsibilities that had her ordering the men around she had often come to him afterwards to ask if as a knight he would resent whatever order she'd given that day, seeing as the orders came from 'snot nosed child playing soldier'. He'd needed to assure her several times just like this.

"His duty can be carried out in Denerim for the most part once the Blight is over. He, Solona and I will have to rebuild our Order." He reminded her. "Half of that battle will be with the Nobles. The Grey Wardens had a base in Denerim and one in Soldier's Peak at one time. We'll just do the same once more. That way the secrets the Wardens need to keep can be kept at Soldier's Peak, and the political wrangling and the recruit training can be done in Denerim." He said laying out a simple plan. "You'll be able to help him with that, and so will I, at least at first."

She sighed and she hugged him tightly. "Thank you, I needed to hear that."

Rory nodded against her head. "I know. Sometimes I think your family does itself a disservice making you think duty is the most important thing." Normally Elissa would protest such a comment but she was too tired, and a tiny part of her agreed, without someone to share her life with her duty would be empty. Rory smiled as she gave him a half-hearted squeeze in retaliation instead. "Just because you both have duties doesn't mean you can't find ways to make them work together most of the time."

"You don't want command?" She asked him. She needed him to tell her he didn't want it before she endorsed Solona.

Rory shook his head. "Solona has a destiny and as a mage she'll need all the political protection she can get as she fulfills it."

"She'll have me and the Order." Elissa said fiercely. "So do you want command or not?"

Rory chuckled. "Down Pup!" She burrowed her face into his shoulder a little deeper to hide her tears. He still felt them as they slipped through his shirt. "She'll also have the rest of us as well, but the title of Warden-Commander is one the Chantry can't ignore... And no, I don't want it. I have always been happy to serve the Cousland family and in this I still will be." He gave her a reassuring smile that she couldn't help returning.

She relaxed now that she had his word that he didn't want to be the Commander. "So it's ok that I'm thinking of pushing her to accept it?" She asked, still hesitant to make the choice alone, she wasn't really a Warden so it felt wrong for her to be making the decision without their approval.

"If you don't... I will." Alistair said from his bed. His voice raspy from sleep, but neither was sure when he'd woken up.

They both looked up and over to Alistair, he was sitting up watching the two on the floor, his expression was soft and he gave Elissa a shy-looking smirk that only Alistair could pull off. Elissa smiled at him and he moved to join them on the floor. Elissa moved from Rory's lap to Alistair's.

"That's settled then." Rory said with a yawn. "Can I go to bed now? It's been a really long night, even with Shale taking the lion's share of the damage."

Elissa sniffled back the last of the tears that threatened to fall and laughed. "Yes, sorry to keep you from your beauty sleep... You need it."

Rory got up and groaned as he stretched his back. "Not that I mind when you need it, but you are getting too heavy to be in my lap, Pup." He said in retaliation for her snarkiness.

Alistair chuckled. "She's not too heavy for mine." He said with a quick kiss to her cheek.

Elissa sighed and settled into his lap with her head tucked on his shoulder. "I'm glad you think so, because I'm too tired to go back to bed on my own."

Alistair stood and readjusted her in his arms, smiling down at her. "Then I shall carry you back." She snuggled into his shoulder and let him do just that.