Chapter 10
"We will need to update Wynne and Sten about our current situation and I require your assistance." Maia cocked her right eyebrow wondering what Sarine had up her sleeves, or amour for that matter.
Sarine stopped outside the room Wynne and Sten was in and turned to Maia. "As you know Wynne is against blood magic and recruiting Jowan might push her to leave the group. I know you have informed me of our complete party but I need you to tell Wynne that you knew of Jowan's joining," she whispered.
"But isn't that lying?" Maia's eyes were wide open and she was shocked to hear Sarine's request.
"Unfortunately yes but I need both of their talents. I can sense that Jowan is very skillful and if I had allowed the Circle to take him, you know that they will turn him into a Tranquil. No one else needs to know about this, it is our little secret. I know that Alistair knows about the future so maybe you can tell him that Jowan just slipped your mind. I really would like to have a strong party to increase our chances of beating the Archdemon. What say you?" Sarine laid out her intention.
Maia took a minute to absorb her reasoning and it started to make perfect sense. She closed her eyes and nodded her head secretly hoping that this lie would not jeopardize her integrity and relationships. Lying is going against every inch of her very being.
Sarine smiled, satisfied that her plans are falling into place and readied herself for the upcoming bombardment as they entered the room.
"Sarine, Maia, I'm glad to see that both of you are fine. I was wondering what had happened when Cullen and Morrigan was called away," Wynne enquired.
"Are we to sit here while the darkspawns build their army and wait for the Archdemon to come knocking at our door?" Sten added sarcastically.
"Not unless we live in a castle with no doors then the Archdemon has no choice but to knock on the windows instead," Sarine tilted her head to the right and gave the most innocent smile she can muster. "But seriously, some decisions were made and I want to update both of you. First if all we will be camping here for two nights to replenish our supplies, furthermore, Maia will be joining us in our quest and she will use this time to train under Leliana." Sarine braced herself for Sten's protest but he only shifted uncomfortably in his seat but just kept silent. Sarine further justified Maia's prolonged stay with the fact the she has valuable information and it would not be wise to let it fall into the enemies' grubby hands and the Archdemon might try to bring her back again.
Sten remained still and Sarine could see that he was processing the facts and when he nodded, she took a deep breath and prepared herself for her next battle.
"As you know, the Archdemon will not be easily defeated and as the in charge, I have decided to recruit Jowan for his abilities," once she finished saying it, as she predicted, Wynne was quick to protest.
"Are you out of your mind? He is dangerous, he has even gone so far as to hurt Irving and the other senior enchanters with blood magic, not to mention the Arl's poisoning. If not for him, this village will still be peace with everyone still alive. Can you be sure that he will not turn on you, on us once a better offer comes his way?" Wynne started to get hysterical.
"Calm down Wynne, as a Grey Warden, defeating the Blight is my top priority and I will make sure that I succeed and if it means recruiting a blood mage, I will. I hope you will understand that the fate of Fereldan is in our hands. Maia?" Sarine waited for her to back her up.
"That's right Wynne. Jowan joined the party and proved to be a loyal and skilled mage and the blight was defeated with everyone's help, including his. Please try to accept him; I know that it's hard for you." Maia pleaded as she held Wynne's hands in hers.
Wynne looked down and began shaking her head wishing that they were just joking but when she looked into Maia's eyes, she saw innocence and trust and it calmed her down.
"Alright, I will try. But don't let me say, I told you so." Wynne looked over Maia shoulders at Sarine.
Sarine was amazed at how well the altercations were handled. Maia was truly proving to be useful and she will be her secret weapon, not only against her enemies but with her companions, If need be.
"Good, now that this is settled, there is the matter of the Arl to handle, let's go Maia. I thank the both of you for your understanding and now I want you to rest." Sarine walked out with Maia at her heels.
"Thank you back there. You really helped with the Wynne situation." Sarine whispered to Maia as they headed to the throne room.
Maia smiled knowing that this is something she does not want to repeat.
"Bann Teagan, I would like to discuss regarding the Arl's cure, if you may," Sarine announced once they found Teagan sitting in the throne room staring into the fire.
"Grey Warden, do you know of a cure for him?" Teagan rise and meet them half way.
"Yes, however, I need a favor from you." Sarine asked calmly and Maia felt a sense of dejavu.
"Name it, anything to cure my brother." Teagan replied anxiously,
"I wish for my party to camp here for two nights to replenish our supplies and for them to rest before we depart for an unknown village to look for a cure," Sarine requested.
"My castle is at your disposal Grey Warden. After how you helped us in our time of need, you need not ask for my permission to stay here. This is your home as much as mine. Please, make yourselves comfortable. However, can I ask where did you get your information from and if it is reliable?" Teagan tried to probe.
"Let's just say that I have a very reliable source and wished to remain anonymous. We thank you for your hospitality," Sarine tried to escape before he stared asking more questions. Sarine does not want anyone else outside her party to now of Maia's real identity. She gave a quick bow and swiftly exited the room.
"So, you're saying that we will get ambushed once we leave Redcliffe?" Sarine asked Maia once they are out of Teagan's range.
"That's right. I even remember how the ambush would take place."
"Good, we will devise a strategy before departing. Now, let's get some sleep. I have enough excitement for today." Sarine stretched her back as they entered a room where all the female companions were gathered.
"Little Mai! Here! I have prepared a spot for you!" Leliana called out excitedly to Maia.
Maia was pleased that she had someone who cared for her and skipped over to Leliana, looking forward to a good night's sleep.
"Oh, Alistair wanted me to tell you that he wishes you good night and pleasant dreams," Leliana whispered as she helped Maia out of her gear, grinning from ear to ear.