Judgment Day: Part III

Back at his estate, Cauthrien had to deliver dire news to the regent. It was dusk by the time she finally made it back and the walk back here was harrowing. As she walked through the Denerim streets all of the common folk looked at her and her men and angry, accusing eyes. In fact, not an hour ago children were throwing horse shit at her and yelling traitor and killers of the king at her. Her armor still rank of the feces. Apparently the whole city got word of what that snake, Howe, had done. While she was glad the sniveling bastard was gone she was still horrified by the grisly end that was inflicted upon him by the Wardens. The fact that the Wardens are willing to commit that much violence on a man should speak of how trustworthy they are, but then again Howe deserved that fate a hundred times over for what he did, even if it was for their country's sake, further still, many lords and common folk seemed to believe that Loghain had murdered their king and are speaking of how he was no better than King Meghren himself! She wouldn't believe that. She couldn't believe that. Ever since he tapped his sword on her shoulders and dubbed her a knight she had seen how his whole existence was to keep Ferelden safe and free. She had no time to think of such matters she had to speak to her lord about these troubling matters and make preparations for the Landsmeet.

Cauthrien found her lord in his solar and from the looks of things, Loghain had just gotten done with some paperwork. "My lord…" The knight uttered cautiously "I'm afraid I bring troubling news."

"Is there any other kind?" Loghain sighed exhausted.

"I regret to inform you that…Teyrn Howe was murdered." She informed half lying about how she felt concerning Howe's death.

"So it's true." Loghain exhaled slowly. "So the traitor finally got his revenge. If what I've heard on the streets is true, the Warden cannibalized him."

"That and more." Cauthrien confirmed grimly before she gave the full details of how Rendon Howe was butchered, broken, and eaten. Loghain was disgusted by the details, but he doubted that was the only thing she had to report. "My lord…there was happenings going on in Howe's estate that have come to light and several, very powerful nobles are furious at the discovery."

Loghain put down his paper and quill before giving Cauthrien his full attention. "Such as?"

All of the terrible things that she had seen in Howe's dungeons began to rush back into her mind, some were too difficult to even put into words. "It would appear that Howe was…kidnapping Denerim citizens and…torturing them in his dungeons. With extreme prejudice."

"Yes. I know." Loghain responded gravely. "I gave him leave to do so."

"How…how could you permit something so horrible!?" Cauthrien gasped.

"It was the only way we could truly find out who was turning traitor here in the capital." Loghain informed remorselessly.

Cauthrien continued to express her horror. "But my lord, most of the people in Howe's dungeons were just simple common folk! There was no reason to imprison them, let alone execute them in such…ghastly manners!"

"It was necessary, Cauthrien!" Loghain barked angrily before regaining his calm. "During the liberation we had to deal with many traitors within our own borders! Bootlicks who were more than happy to live under the yolk of the Orlesian Empire. Several turncoats sold us out to have some of the False King's gold and it cost us several major battles and the lives of many good, loyal citizens. I couldn't risk a repeat of what happened then."

Some of what Loghain said made sense to her, but Cautherine still couldn't fathom what Howe had done to these people. "My lord if they were traitors they should have been given a fair trial. And what if they weren't traitors? What if we let Howe torture and murder innocent people? What Howe did in those dungeons, with your authority reflects on you."

Loghain had a look on his face that said it bore the weight of the world. "Cauthrien, in war we can't afford to think about the innocent, we have to think of the long term goals, and the dead…the only thing we can do for the dead is make sure their they didn't die in vain."

If that's the case, this next bit of news is going to make Loghain wish a couple of Howe's prisoners were dead. "My lord, that sort of reasoning will not satisfy Bann Sighard."

"What does Bann Sighard have to do with anything?"

"It would seem that his son, Oswyn, was among the prisoners being tortured by Howe. From what we have heard Sighard is furious and wants someone to answer for it. To make matters worse Bann Alfstanna learned that her brother was being held captive and why. More than likely their going to lend their support to Maric's bastard!"

So that was the contingency Howe had on Sighard. "Cauthrien, all that has been done is what's needed to keep Ferelden free. If Sighard's son was a threat to our borders then he had to be kept secured and Irminric couldn't be allowed to walk freely, the information he knew was too great a risk, even if he was doing it in the Maker's name."

This still didn't sit right with Cautherine. "My lord, all of this severely damages your credibility. The Chantry isn't going to just sweep this under the carpet, and all of the nobles whose families were harmed by Howe are holding you responsible. To top it all off many citizen throughout the capital are saying that you're acting no different than the Orlesians…"

"THEY KNOW NOTHING!" Loghain exploded out of his seat before Cautherine finished. "I remember what it was like to be a slave to the chevaliers! I remember what it took make us a free people again! Maric and I did whatever it took to drive those bastards out! It took blood, sweat and sacrifice! If peace has made all of these traitors forget that, or if they don't have the spine to do what it takes to secure this nation than they don't deserve to live freely to begin with!"

When he finished his rant Loghain finally noticed that he was holding Cauthrien by the shoulders and had her forced against the wall. He was letting all of this get to him. If he was going to prove that the Wardens couldn't be trusted at the Landsmeet he needed to keep his emotions under control. He let go of his lieutenant and stepped into the center of the room. "Is there anything else?"

This was the hardest bit of news Cautherine had to explain to the regent. "Yes. I'm afraid so. I have…failed you my lord."

"Failed?"

"When I had heard that the Wardens was going to Teryn Howe's estate while the queen was there I took a contingency or our best men to prevent the Wardens from doing any harm to the queen. I failed. The Warden and his allies took the queen and I have no idea what he had done with her."

Now this was a blow for Loghain. Loghain doubted the Warden would just kill his daughter, not with Eamon advising him. No, at this very moment he is probably interrogating his daughter for information and brainwashing her so that she may stand against her own father in the Landsmeet. He couldn't do anything. If he took troops into Eamon's estate on the eve of a Landsmeet that would make more nobles sympathetic to the Wardens. The only thing he could do now was win the Landsmeet and rescue his daughter afterwards.

"You did not fail me, Cauthrien." Loghain said calmly. "Aedan Cousland may be a traitor, but he is still one of the best warriors of his generation. It doesn't matter anymore. What matters now is that we end this farce of a Landsmeet, execute the traitors and their pretender. Once we have full unity we can end the darkspawn threat and at last have peace again." With that Loghain gave the Knight her leave.

Cauthrien was surprised by Loghain's leniency towards her failure but was still disturbed by his behavior. The man who knighted her was much different than the man she just got done speaking with. He would never have done any of these terrible deeds were things not so desperate. Yes. If it weren't for the Grey Wardens and their sympathizers all of these horrible events would never have happened, they would have ended the darkspawn by now and have peace, many dead would still be alive. Still, now the Wardens had powerful allies and there was a chance they could win the Landsmeet. Loghain still knew all that was best for Ferelden, she couldn't allow the Wardens and their allies to cause further harm to this country than they already have. So for the sake of her lord, for the sake of Ferelden, she would have end the threat Aedan and Alistair posed herself, even if it cost her.

With Cautherine out of the room Loghain had time to collect himself. Tomorrow was when it would finally end. He would finally end Orlesian infiltration of his country and then he would end this Blight harrowing the south. The thought that lingered most in his mind was his daughter. Can he save her from the Wardens, can she still be trusted? Hard to say, she was after all his daughter, and if she was anything like him she would do whatever it takes to accomplish her own goal, even if it meant siding against her own father. Loghain wasn't blind to all that he had done for their independence but it was needed. No doubt the Wardens would have strong supporters in the Landsmeet, but the word of the Hero of River Dane carried more weight than that of a green child who only saw battle as a game. Loghain was a symbol of the Ferelden spirit of hard work and independence. He is Ferelden. He will prove all this and more at the Landsmeet.

That Night at Eamon's Estate….

XoXoXo

Aedan had arranged with Eamon to look after Amythene and ensure that she would be well cared for while in his custody. Aedan was able to set her down to sleep in one of the guest rooms. Seeing her wide-eyed excitement of having a room this big and books to read reminded Aedan of how little Oren would react every time his father showed him something new. When Aedan left Morrigan was waiting outside the door with a serious look on her face. This would be fun. "I am curious, Aedan." The witch stated inquisitively. "Why are you going through the trouble of helping one orphan girl? One would think that you had other things on your mind. And what did you mean that you and her mother were 'friends'?"

"Her name was Iona." Aedan answered plainly. "She and I were…intimate."

"Ah. I see. Did she mean so much to you that you know wish to watch after her child as though she were your very own?"

"If you're interrogating me, Morrigan, because you're jealous, don't be. Iona and I never got far. She was killed when Highever was sacked."

"But that does not answer my question." The witch continued. "If she didn't mean that much to you why go through the trouble of looking out for someone else's whelp."

Aedan had a stern look on his face. "I was supposed to protect Highever Castle and everyone in it. I failed. Now I have an obligation to avenge the dead and look after the living."

Morrigan still didn't understand his reasoning judging by the blank look on her face, while Alistair looked at his brother with approval of his reason. Aedan noticed the look on Alistair's face and cracked a mischievous grin. "And besides, no child should have to be raised by the Chantry. Otherwise they end up like Alistair."

"Heeeeeey!" Alistair whined at that remark.

"In that case…how noble of you." Morrigan approved chuckling.

"Why do you ask?" Aedan inquired. "Are you jealous?"

"Don't be absurd!" Morrigan denied. "I…merely do not wish you distracted is all. With all that is happening right now, your mind should not be elsewhere."

Aedan softly kissed Morrigan's soft face. "I'm glad to see you care, Morrigan."

Aedan left to go see Eamon and Teagan. Morrigan just stood there in the hall, her pale cheeks blushing. Alistair snickered at the sight of the melting ice-queen, making her flash a glare that threatened to turn the former Templar into a frog if he didn't go away.

Eamon and Riordan were sitting in the study when Aedan came in unexpectedly, catching them both pleasantly surprised though Eamon was a little disturbed with all the blood crusted on his armor, Riordan, on the other hand was used to it at this point.

"Ah, you've returned." Eaman stated relieved. "I've been hearing of a great commotion in the Alienage, I was about to send out a search party."

Aedan had a vicious grin on his face and produced a small stack of papers from his satchel. "I have irrefutable proof that Loghain was collaborating with Tevinter slavers in the Alienage." When he announced that Riordan choked and spat out his wine on the floor.

"Are….Are you certain, Lord Aedan?" Riordan coughed.

"Take a look for yourselves."

Both the Arl and the Senior Warden looked at the paper carefully and there was no doubt about it. Here, in great detail, the documents stated that the Tevinters were to given free rein to conduct their slave trade in the Alienage and Loghain had agreed to give them full discretion. In return for allowing them to take elves into slavery the Minarthous Circle would pay the teryn one hundred gold pieces per elf. Stamped at the bottom of the document was the Yellow Wyvern of Gwaren and written right next to it was the broad, rough signature of Teyrn Loghain.

Riordan sat back down in his chair with utter horror. How could Loghain stoop so low? How can you he sell the very citizens he swore to defend and claim that he is fighting for this nation's freedom? He couldn't think of it right now, as terrible as it may be their duty is to combat the Blight and if this truly spelt the end of Loghain's reign as the regent perhaps they could make use of his warrior prowess and tactical mind should it come to that. He wouldn't bring it up right now, though, he would wait until they have one this Landsmeet. He just hoped Aedan and Alistair would set aside their grudge influenced by their youth so that they may do their duty to end the Archedemon.

"Maker forgive me." Eamon sighed sadly. "I should be horrified that such a thing would exist here in Ferelden, but I am overjoyed that you can implicate Loghain."

"With this we've got that bastard by the short hairs." Aedan stated malignantly.

That statement was crude but Eamon gave it a confirmed nod. "We must end this civil war quickly. Whatever the darkspawn don't destroy of this county politics certainly will."

"When is the soonest we can commence the Landsmeet, Eamon?" Aedan asked.

"Midday tomorrow. The last of the nobles and freeholders have come to the city and from what I have heard a few very powerful noble have turned their support the Wardens."

"So, tomorrow we settle this civil war, then we can finally face the true enemy, the Blight." Stated Riordan with relief. The Blight was growing larger with each passing hour and they could no longer have any more political delays.

"Yes, though I suggest we all get as much rest as we can tonight, tomorrow our nation will face a great change." Eamon informed cryptically.

Aedan took his leave with a great smile on his face. Finally, all of the bullshit he had gone through to have Loghain face justice was coming to fruition. The people of Ferelden will see how far Loghain has fallen as a hero and a liberator and they can at last route the darkspawn threat. All the death and destruction that had happened in this country will not have been in vain. Aedan sat in his room next at his night table to do some drawing with a bottle of Coastland brandy quench his thirst. It had been a while since he indulged in his favorite pastime. After the terrifying and gory things his hands had done today the strain in his wrists from etching on paper was a welcome change.

But even on paper he couldn't escape what was in his mind. He illustrated the memories of Howe's desiccated corpse, his torn face twisted agony and Caladrius' scalped skull, even the slavers and soldiers he broke, cleaved, cut down and crushed. Aedan's mind travelled to the more immediate problems at hand and set their images on paper. Cauthrien with her Orlesian Summer Sword. Loghain with his Wyvern mounted shield and sword. Anora in her crown.

There was a knock on Aedan's door, he'd hoped that it was Morrigan but was deeply disappointed to see it was Erlina, she still had the bruises from when Aedan attempted to strangle her. For obvious reasons she avoided his looking him in the eye. "My lady would like a private word with you, Lord Cousland." The elf rasped. She had regained her voice but there was definitely damage so that she couldn't talk very well.

"Very well." Aedan snorted. "Send your lady here. I will hear her out." A few minutes later Anora came to Aedan's room dressed like she was at a spring gala looking for a suitor. She knew how to play men, he'd give her that. But she forgot that while she was educated by Eleanor Cousland, he was raised by her.

Anora was surprised to see Aedan was shirtless, but was not shocked by it. After all this wasn't the first time she'd seen a bare-chested man. But the tattoos were certainly…alluring. In their own way. Anora intentionally dressed in a sleeveless satin blue gown that shimmered in the light. The neckline was low and showed off her delicate skin and a modest amount of cleavage. Growing up she learned that when it came to men, especially men of power, the best way to get their attention, or better yet, get them to listen was to show off their natural treasures. It worked so well with Cailan, and judging from that scantily clad Chasind woman that Aedan clung to, this tactic would work on him, too.

"It is good you've agreed to speak with me, Aedan." Anora started. "First allow to say how sorry I am about your family. Eleanor in particular was dear to me."

Aedan flashed an angry gaze at the mentioning of his mother. "And yet you did nothing when Howe slaughtered my family and usurped our teyrnir. In fact, it seems to me you allowed him to just have it."

Anora was treading on thin ice and she knew it. She had to make Aedan see reason. "My father allowed Howe to have your teyrnir. And with the state the country is in right now I needed someone of authority to hold the teyrnir, and I trusted my father's judgment. But I think it was fitting that Howe died at your hands."

"He didn't die well, that's for certain." Aedan smiled as took another sip from his brandy. "The taste of his blood was better than what I'm drinking right here."

Anora looked at the drawings on the nightstand. Some of them she found violently disturbing. Images of men being slaughtered, dismembered and disemboweled. Others were a bit more flattering. Like the illustration of herself that was flawless down to the tiniest detail. Eleanor always said her son had an artistic talent, but it was overshadowed by his violent nature. "I know that my actions at Howe's estate haven't painted me in the best light. I am hoping we can move past that. Let me start first by thanking you for saving me from Howe."

Aedan downed another drink of his brandy. "I wasn't there for you, Anora." He chuckled. "I was there for the sole purpose of murdering Howe with my bare hands. You were just an afterthought."

Anora glared at the sitting Warden angrily. How dare he speak to her in such a way? "If your vengeance is more important to you than saving your queen, maybe you're unfit to protect this country, Aedan."

Aedan retuned her glare with twice the authority. "And if you let the civil war get this bad in the midst of a Blight, maybe you are unfit to rule this country, Anora! Bloodmages and slavers run rampant in the heart of our capital while your father wages war on our people, and your too busy trying to be daddy's little girl while our people are dying!"

Anora was stunned for a moment. No one, not even her father or Cailan had ever spoken to her in such a way. Who did Aedan think he was? "I didn't come here to argue the past." She sighed. "I came here because I believe we can help each other."

"You think to form some kind of alliance to remove your father…." Aedan scoffed. "…who has taken the throne from you in all but name and title."

"Yes." Anora confirmed. "You are competent and powerful. And in the right place at the right time. Don't you see? We can do together what we can't accomplish alone."

Aedan smiled deviously at the queen in way that reminded her of a cat about to catch the mouse. "So far all you've done is list the things I can do for you. But you've yet to list any uses you could possibly have for me."

This was where the negotiating table got tricky. Especially with another competent noblemen sitting at it. "When my father is deposed I promise to restore Highever to you and your family." Anora promised.

"You can't give back what was never yours to begin with, Anora." Aedan reminded. "And besides, I already have another candidate for the throne. What need have I for you?"

Anora's face turned sour and her fist angrily clenched at the mentioning of that base-born usurper. "Alistair seems like a good man. But that does not make him king material. Ferelden doesn't need a good man, it needs a strong ruler. He is untested and unwilling. Alistair could destroy everything Cailan and I have done." Anora stated firmly, but honestly. "I, however, have ruled this nation in all but name for almost five years. I am what this nation needs, not Alistair."

"Well, it seems to me that your father has been doing a fine job of destroying everything you and Cailan have done all by himself, with your authority no less." Aedan rebutted sternly. "You think that just because Cailan happened to have the misfortune of dying that the mantle of rulership falls to you? This isn't Orlais, in case you've forgotten that. You and your father have spent so much time looking down on others from your high positions that you've forgotten what it's like to be amongst our people." Aedan's scolding of both her and her father as well as mentioning her husband's death caused feeling of anger to erupt in Anora but she kept her composure. "And while you were standing around letting your father trample on every right we Feredans hold sacred, Alistair was in the Deep Roads, the Brecelian Forest and in the Temple of Sacred Ashes wading through demons, darkspawn and every kind of enemy in creation fighting at my side, and helping me gather the strength necessary to defeat the Blight."

"I have no doubts that Alistair is a great warrior and Grey Warden." Anora agreed. "But do you honestly think he has what it takes to rule this country? I have my doubts. Could he really live up to the legacy of Maric the Savior?"

"Alistair didn't grow up in a castle, it's true." Aedan agreed. "But look at Calenhad the Great. He was poor dog handler before he united Ferelden. The same was true of King Maric. Alistair has lived amongst our people, and thanks to your father, he knows what it's like to be hunted and persecuted. And despite everything that been mounted up against him, he was still there fighting for Ferelden in her time of need." Aedan smiled impudently. "Personally, I think Alistair is more of Maric's son than Cailan ever was."

Aedan's disrespect for her husband's memory made Anora want to slap the Warden for his impudence, but she maintained her self-control. She would not show weakness in front of Aedan. Anora Mac Tir would not be pushed around by anyone.

"What do you say we cut the self-worthiness bullshit, Anora?" Aedan finally relented. "I won't deny that you've been a capable administrator for the past five years, but there are many in the Landsmeet who aren't happy with the authority you gave your father, and there are also many who will want to see Maric's son on the throne." Aedan was finally getting down to business. "You and I both know this. So, why not simply marry Alistair, and everyone gets what they want."

Anora was taken aback by such a suggestion. She was still a recent widow and hasn't had proper time to mourn her husband. Anora did love Cailan in her way, but it was still more of a sibling love than anything else. Now Aedan wanted her to marry his brother? "Ignoring the fact that the man looks so much like Cailan, my recently deceased husband, if you remember. My main fear is that he will govern like Cailan, but he does have royal blood, which to some is more important than practical matters."

"So when your father had his men murder Bann Grainne of Wintersbreath for burning her own crops that was him being practical?" Aedan reminded. "Burning the king's grain was the charge I believe."

"Is this even something Alistair would consent to?" Anora questioned. "Would he be willing to set aside his freedom?"

"Unlike some people I've met, Alistair actually takes the Blight seriously." Aedan answered. "Trust me, he will consent to this."

"If this is to happen he must promise to stand aside and allow me to continue to rule on my own." The queen's request caused Aedan to flinch irritably. "It is my understanding that governing does not appeal to him anyway. If he is willing to rule as king in name in only, then that is an arrangement I can live with."

"Too fucking bad, Anora." Aedan shot down her proposal like a turkey. "That's not how it's going to work. The instant you had the throne to yourself the kingdom went to shit. If Alistair is to be crowned alongside you, he has to share in that responsibility." The Warden explained. "Your marriage has to be a nightmare for the both of you."

Anora could see that there was no persuading Aedan. His loyalty to Alistair was noble but misguided. But if it meant retaining her authority as queen, she would have to comply. For now. "To marry Cailan's brother." Anora sighed. "I suppose stranger things have happened. Is this it? I marry Alistair and you agree to give me your support in the Landsmeet?"

"There is one more condition, Anora." Aedan revealed insidiously. "I still want your father's head on a pike. That's non-negotiable! His crimes are too severe to be ignored."

Anora was completely stunned by the very suggestion. How could he ask such a thing of her? "My father is the best war leader in all of Ferelden, and a hero to its people. Surely you can see the benefits of having him as a general once he is deposed?"

"I watched all the loyal soldiers and your husband die at the hands of the darkspawn from the Tower of Ishal, Anora. I saw the look on the faces of the elves he was selling into slavery. So, No. I don't see the benefits of having such a man serving as a general. He must die." The intense look of hatred in Aedan's eyes could have burned a witch at the stake.

"Then…that is how it must be." Anora relented sadly. "We have an agreement then, Aedan?"

"We have an agreement." Aedan confirmed with a strange grim happiness.

"I trust you'll keep your end of the bargain, Warden." Anora said bitterly. "Next comes the difficult task of dealing with my father. That will be no small feat, I assure you. But of course you know this." Aedan noticed the disingenuous tone in her voice and that sly look in her eyes as she turned to leave.

"Anora." Aedan called warningly. "I've been having to clean up your father's mistakes since the moment Howe killed my family. And you only turned against him when he threatened your bid for the throne. I am not a man to be crossed a second time. And don't forget, you may have been educated by my mother, but I was raised by her."

Anora left Aedan's room and stormed down the hallway. She was beginning to think that relying on the Grey Wardens to secure her throne might be a mistake. She couldn't allow Alistair's idiocy to destroy everything she had built for Ferelden for the past five years. And the fact that he was backed by a very volatile heir to the powerful terynir of Higever made the situation direr. Alistair from what she had seen and heard from Cailan was a naïve oaf of a man, not that much different than Cailan himself, and if he did become ruler he'd be more inclined to listen Aedan's violent and irrational counsel rather than her own. Perhaps her father was right, at least in this instance; should Alistair take the throne it would be the Warden ruling not hers. She couldn't allow that. Alistair's stupidity and Aedan's recklessness would destroy Ferelden. Not to mention Aedan was completely erratic, he had absolutely no respect for authority and set on strong-arming her into this possible marriage. She would not be bullied nor would she be dissuaded. So for the sake of her country and for the sake of maintaining her sovereignty she would have to do something drastic. The most important thing her father taught her was "A country conforms to its ruler, not the other way around."

After Anora had left Aedan resumed his drinking and drawing. His mind and hand left the images of those he hated and traveled to those he cared about. His mother, his father, Fergus. Orianna. Oren. Morrigan. These last few weeks she had been very distant from him, and whenever he tried to ask her why she would push him away. He couldn't shake the need he had for her away. He needed to finally tell her how he truly felt.

Aedan put on a simple shirt and silently made his way to Morrigan's room. After Aedan rapped on the door and asked to be let in. Morrigan hesitantly allowed him. Morrigan's room was simple enough. Aedan noticed the mirror he had given her was resting on the night table and glittering in the dim fire light. "Is there something you wanted, Aedan?"

"Yes, there is." Aedan answered softly. "Morrigan, ever since you asked me about how I feel about you, you've been avoiding me. I cannot ignore this any longer."

"I've already told you that I don't want to..."

"Please, let me finish." Aedan insisted. "Tomorrow may definitely decide the fate of this nation. After that everything is uncertain. I don't if I'll be alive after it's all done, or if I'll be killed fighting the darkspawn. So, please hear me out."

Morrigan wanted him to leave so badly, but her heart wanted him to stay. She needed to hear his words. "Very well, Aedan. But I promise nothing."

"At the Temple of Sacred Ashes and at Howe's estate you heard me say that avenging my family was my only reason for living."

"Yes, and from what I've seen I believe it."

"I lied, both times." Aedan confessed. "For a while it was true. But then you became my reason for living." Morrigan felt her heart skip a beat. "Morrigan, I love you. No matter what you may think of love, or what may happen to me after tomorrow, please know that."

Morrigan tried her hardest to fight back her emotions, but the more she fought the more her feelings shone through. "Aedan, please." She practically wept. "You must stop this. You don't know what it is you're saying."

"No. I do know what I'm saying, Morrigan." Aedan insisted as he gently cupped her face in his hand. "And I swear that when this is over, I'll spend every day I have in me with you. I'll show you that love is real."

Morrigan was drawn by the intensity of his determined, yet gentle blue eyes. Damn him. She wanted nothing more than to kiss him right now. To feel his warm embrace and love. Morrigan embraced Aedan and cuddled her head into his chest and tried hold back her tears. "I want that more than you could possibly realize." The witch whispered. "But I can't. Please, please let this go. It can't be."

Aedan still couldn't understand. "Why? Why can't it be? Is it because I'm a Warden or that I'm a noble?"

"No." Morrigan answered truthfully. "You are the most perfect man I have ever met. And any woman who thinks otherwise is not worthy of you. 'Tis me. I want nothing more than to have life with you, to wake every morning and find myself in your arms and spend my days with you. But 'tis not to be."

"Why can't it?" Aedan urged. "You are not a woman to let anything get in your way, no matter the opposition. It's one of the things I love about you. So why can't it be unless you don't want it?"

Morrigan bit her tongue and forced back the answer. "Please, Aedan. If you love me, then please wait. Trust that I will give you the answer when the time is right. I will explain everything."

Aedan couldn't stand to see how much he was hurting Morrigan. "Very well, Morrigan." Aedan relented. "I won't force this. I will wait until you're ready. Only because I love you. But please know that everything I've said is the truth."

Aedan quietly left the room. Morrigan slumped against the door until her face fell into her knees and quietly wept to herself. She felt her heart breaking inside her chest, she did love him and he loved her. But Aedan of all people knew that what a person must do always comes before their own feelings. All she could do now was hope that Aedan would forgive her.

The Day of the Landsmeet….

XoXoXo

Today was the day. The fate of their nation would be decided by those who safeguarded it, and they would choose who would lead them against the Blight. And if they were going to be the saviors of this country, they needed to look the part. Which is why Aedan took Alistair too Wade's Emporium. "Why are we at an armorer's when the Landsmeet is only hours away?" Alistair asked anxiously. Ever since he woke up this morning he felt like he was just a small surprise away from having a heart-attack. It wasn't enough that the Blight was almost on their doorstep, and the fact that he may actually become king of a whole nation, but he woke to the delightful surprise that Aedan cut a deal with Anora last night and arranged for the two of them to get married! As in "husband and wife" married. To his brother's widow no less! Aedan was able to convince him that this was the best course of action, his humility could be the perfect counter-balance to her pride, and it would cement the peace. Maker, he hated that was almost always right.

"I figured that if you're going to be made king at the Landsmeet, you may as well look the part." Aedan answered as he waited for Wade to bring the finished piece.

"That's a little optimistic, don't you think?" Alistair countered. He still didn't know if they could pull this off. "I mean, I doubt everyone's going to be thrilled to put a bastard on the throne."

"Well, that depends on what said bastard has accomplished." Aedan sighed. Wade finally came in through the back giddy as a girl in a dress, whereas Herren, who was wheeling in the veiled final piece, had a forlorn look of agitation plastered on his face.

"Here it is, ser." The master smith practically squealed. "The materials you brought me were breath taking and they worked amazingly! This will undoubtedly go down as one of the highlights of my career!"

"Oh, good!" Herren's voice was laced with dismal sarcasm. "You can put that down on the paper work, too. When we file for bankruptcy."

"Silence, Herren!" Wade demanded. "The Warden asked me for a set fit for a king! And no Fereldan King will be anything less than glorious if I have anything to say about it!"

Wade pulled the veil off and revealed a set of armor the likes of which Alistair hadn't seen before. The armor was charcoal black with gold highlighting, featuring engraved Mabaris on the fauld. The pauldrons were shaped into the forms of snarling Mabari heads, the boots were engraved with the symbol of the Fereldan Templar Order and the image of the Griffons were stamped on the gauntlets in honor of the Grey Wardens. The cuirass was reinforced splintmail which gave protection against arrows and would glance off sword blows. There were also some strange inscription delicately etched into it. "Are these protective enchantments?" Aedan asked very impressed.

"Well, I have a friend of a friend who is rather good at protective spells." Wade answered bashfully. "And since this man is a descendant of the Calenhad the Silver Knight, I thought I would try to measure up to that legendary armor he wore."

The final piece was the helmet, which was a piece of Fereldan at all on its own. It was designed in the shape of a Mabari head, with the wearers head was to fit in its snarling maw. The entire piece screamed Fereldan pride, while also detailing everything that Alistair is. Templar. Warden. Fereldan King. Alistair couldn't believe that Aedan arranged such a maginificent set for him. "Where did you get the material for this?"

"You remember the scales I fleeced off that High Dragon?" Aedan answered. "Well, I gave those scales to Wade and commissioned him to fashion this armor for you."

"And without even paying us, I might add." Hahren whined under his breath.

"Silence, Heren!" Wade snapped. "We are making art for the future king! I will not accept the king's gold for merely performing my craft!"

"But why do I need this armor?" Alistair questioned. "My armor….My brother's armor has served me well. And I haven't even been elected king yet."

"Because, Alistair, you need to stop being a ghost of someone else and living in another's legacy." Aedan's wisdom was actually profound. "When people see you Cailan's armor they think you're him, or you're trying to honor his memory. Others may want you on the throne simply because you're Maric's son. Instead, show them who you truly are, what you've accomplished, and let that be the king that rules over us."

Once again Aedan was right, but this time in the best way. "You're right, Aedan. I do need to stop letting other people's expectation and legacies define me. I never gave a damn about Maric in the first place. Anora thinks she could just push me off to the side, but that's not who I am, not anymore. It's time the whole world saw me for who I am."

"Then put the damn armor on!" Aedan insisted. "We've got a Landsmeet to win!"

Wade was truly a master of his craft, the armor fit Alistair so perfectly it was like a second skin, and its weight was so evenly distributed it felt like it weight nothing. Alistair donned the mabari-shaped helm and realized that this armor felt more…natural than wearing his brother's armor, it didn't feel like he was trespassing on another, but strangely like he was shedding his own skin. "There is one last thing I that I think you should have."

Aedan handed Alistair a veiled object with an unusual sense of deference. Alistair unveiled the giht and was almost brought to tears, something he promised himself not to do again, but these were tears were too joyful to be held back. It was a silverite shield and despite being worn and battle-scared it still shined with a bright luster. On the face of the shield was painted a Griffon standing rampant regardant, with a silver dagger in both talons and flaming tongue. "This…this shield. It belonged to Duncan."

"Riordan told me of the cache of weapons that was hidden in the city." Aedan explained. "I recognized that as Duncan's. You once said you had nothing to remember him by, so I thought you would be the most appropriate person to bear this shield."

"Thank you, Aedan." Alistair sniffed as he wiped away his tears. "I shall always treasure this gift."

"Wear this and your armor proudly as we redeem our names and the Order of the Grey in the Landsmeet. And we will both prove we are our father's sons." Aedan's pride and charisma radiated off of him like a halo.

With this new found sense of self-confidence Alistair walked with his head held high, and for once in his life, embraced his right to be king.

At the Royal Palace of Ferelden….

XoXoXo

The two Grey Wardens and their companions walked the street with utter surety and, for the first time since they arrive in this city, without incident. Some of the citizens of the city, humans, dwarves and elves alike even came out and greeted them as heroes. But Aedan felt that it was undeserved, they still haven't saved the country yet. The Fereldan Palace did not possess any of the comforts or grandeur one would expect in the seat of royalty, like in Orlais or the Free Marches. Fereldans preferred practicality over beauty and held opulence in contempt, so the palace was built more like a fortress than a house of royalty. Built upon a high hill with powerful walls, thick barricaded doors and mighty towers standing proudly. The seat of Fereldan kings also reflected their might.

As was tradition, the Landsmeet would be held in the throne room before the witness of the freeholders and the mediation of the Grand Cleric. As they made their through the halls Aedan couldn't help but notice the lack of guards posted in them. That couldn't be by chance, not when a Landsmeet was in session. Aedan pushed the final chamber doors that led to the throne room and was displeased, but not surprised, to see Ser Cauthrien, Summer Sword in hand, and all the members of Maric's Shield waiting for them. She was obviously here and ready for a fight, but that look of bitter look of doubt and despair filled her eyes.

"Aedan Cousland. I am not surprised it has come to this." She scowled resentfully at Alistair and all that he was. "And Alistair, if you were even remotely worthy of being called a son of Maric's, you would already be in the Landsmeet, wouldn't you? You have torn this nation apart to oppose the very man who ensure you were born into freedom, but do not think you will get past me to desecrate the Landsmeet itself. The nobles will finally confirm my lord as regent, and we can finally put this to rest. Once you are gone."

Aedan had come too far to let this misbegotten knight and her self-righteous sense of honor stand between him and his goal. He would not be deterred. "Even after all the evil things he's done that disgraces Ferelden, you still stand for him?"

Ever since her last talk with Loghain, Cauthrien couldn't shake that feeling of doubt that had gripped her, but she couldn't abandon her lord now. She had to stand against the Warden. "I am aware that he's…changed. It has been difficult for him to comprehend how his own countrymen could turn against him. I am not surprised he is bitter, but he is still a great man, one of the best Ferelden has ever seen! He has sacrificed everything for this country!"

"Was sacrificing King Cailan and the army at Ostagar done in the defence of Ferelden? Or did your master simply abandon his post because it was what? Convenient for him?"

"Cailan was a fool!" Cauthrien cursed spitefully. "He grew up a spoiled brat in ancestor's palace. He didn't know what it was like to starve or be hunted. Maybe the Grey Wardens killed him or maybe my lord let Cailan die of his own foolishness. Either way it may have saved Ferelden."

"So when he sold Ferelden citizens into the Tevinter Imperium he was saving them? Don't make me laugh!" Aedan yelled.

"What was he supposed to do!?" Cauthrien defended desperately. "You and Eamon were harassing him at every turn, forcing him to empty the treasurey to fight you! He never wanted a civil war! After Cailan died everyone was supposed to rally together to fight the darkspawn without crying to Orlais for aid! He never anticipated Maric's bastard would challenge him for the throne and force this war."

"And so that pitiful excuse gives him the right to sell people like they're just things? That gives him the right to round people up like cattle by the likes of Howe and torture them? That's the kind of man you serve!?"

"You think war is simple don't you? You only fight monsters!" Cauthrien yelled back. "No one sheds a tear over the death of an ogre. Torture is an ugly business, but sometimes it's the only way to learn what your enemy is planning. And it's hard to tell who your enemy is when it's your own countrymen you fight."

"Your lord and Howe are monsters. Howe didn't imprison and torture enemy spies!" Aedan hissed coming forward forcing Cauthrien to assume her guard. "He was tying up loose ends! Anyone who knew of Loghain's crimes or simply didn't support him was thrown into a dungeon and were flayed, broken and skewered to cover up your lords crimes!" Aedan could see Cauthrien's resolve faltering. "If I'm so evil why has everyone turned against Loghain? Why is it I had to fight against the crimes Loghain commited against our people? If Loghain is such a great man why did he stoop to committing evil acts against his own countrymen!? And you aided him! Every widow, every orphan, every life he ruined you helped destroy!"

Cauthrien's sword trembled like a leaf in her grip. Every word from Aedan cut her like a sword down to her very soul. "What would you have me do!?" She cried. "Loghain is a great man! He's done terrible things, I know it! But I owe him everything! I cannot betray him, you can't ask me to!"

"Loghain is not the kingdom! Serve your country for once, and get out of my way!"

Aedan's truthful order broke what resolve Cauthrien had left. For the first time in her life she knew she could not follow Loghain Mac Tir. "I….I wished I had died at Ostagar than live to see this moment." Cauthrien head lowered in defeat and wept silently as the Summer Sword fell from her grasp. "Please, show mercy. Without Loghain there would be no Ferelden to defend."

"I will show him the same mercy he showed me and all the other loyal souls that died at Ostagar." Aedan answered grimly. Cauthrien knelt to the ground and wept bitter tears as her men all threw down their arms. Alistair never thought he'd see the day, but Aedan it seems had accomplished the impossible. He didn't break Cauthrien's body like he thought Aedan would, but instead did something far worse. Aedan broke her spirit.

The passed through the final doors to the throne room unopposed. Aedan's very presence caused the freeholders on the ground floor to jump out of his way. Many of the lords and freeholders were armed and armored, as was custom in the turbulent and many times violent proceedings of Fereldan politics. Those who weren't armored wore traditional finery that echoed their status. Eamon was standing in the balcony above the floor with the rest of the arls and banns overlooking the proceedings. Aedan's timing couldn't have been more perfect; he had just walked in the middle of Eamon's speech. "My lords and ladies of the Landsmeet, Teryn Loghain would have us give up our freedoms, our traditions out of fear! He placed us on this path, yet he expects us to follow him? Must we give up everything great about our nation to save it?"

Many of the lords applauded Eamon's words genuinely. But Loghain was unmoved. "A fine performance, Eamon." The teryn complimented sardonically as he gave a discourteous applaud of his own. "But no one here is taken in by it. You would attempt to put a puppet on the throne and everyone here knows it. The question is…who will pull the strings?" Loghain's eyes turned accusingly to Aedan he approached the floor. "Aha! And here we have the puppeteer!" Aedan was ready to face his nemesis in the eyes of the Landsmeet. "Tell us, Warden. How will the Orlesians take our nation from us? Will they deign to send troops or simply issue their commands from this would-be prince?" Aedan realized how mad Loghain is now. He still thinks they're at war with Orlais. "What did they offer you? How much Fereldan blood does Orlesian gold buy now."

"You really are a senile old bastard, aren't you Loghain?" Aedan asked spitefully. "Maybe it's escaped your notice, but we're being besieged by the darkspawn! Not chevaliers!"

"The South has fallen, Loghain!" Arl Wulff called. "Will you let the darkspawn ravage the whole country for fear of Orlais?"

"The Blight is indeed real, Wulff." Loghain finally acknowledged. "But do we need Grey Wardens to fight it? They claim that they alone can stop the Blight, yet they failed spectacularly fighting the darkspawn at Ostagar, and they aske to bring with them four legions of chevaliers!" Loghain's yelled accusingly. "And once we open our borders to the chevaliers can we really expect them to simply return from whence they came?"

"You asked me how much Fereldan blood Orlesian gold buys, Loghain." Aedan stated hatefully as tossed a small purse to all the lords in the balcony and dumped a larger purse right in the middle of the floor spilling golden coins to the ground. All the lords gazed at the foreign coinage, but it didn't bear the visage of the empress, it was stamped with the heraldry of the Imperium. "But why don't you tell the lords of the Landsmeet how much elven flesh Tevinter gold buys, slaver?" Aedan demanded as he revealed the promissory documents sealed with Loghain's signature.

"What!?" Bann Sighard demanded aghast. "There is no slavery in Ferelden! Explain yourself, Loghain!"

"This is war." Loghain answered callously. "Did you really think things would be settled simply and with honor? War is cruel, every soul who fought with Maric knows this. And in war there is no such thing as innocents, only the living and the dead, and the degrees of guilt both bear." Loghain's answer elicited looks of disgust from many of the lords and freeholders. "We cannot save the Alienage if the Blight comes here. We cannot save this city without resources, and it is far better for the elves to be in the Imperium than here where they cannot be saved. And now because it has been stopped the army we have is only a third the size it needs to be to combat the Blight."

"The army wouldn't be so small if you hadn't fled Ostagar, like a coward." Aedan pointed out. "And so the elves have to pay the price because you fucked up?"

"Despite my sympathy for the elves, I have done my duty, Warden!" Loghain's eyes matched the hatred in Aedan's.

Loghain's excuses made Aedan feel nauseous, and homicidal. "Was having Howe kidnap and torture Fereldan citizens who knew of your crimes also a part of your duty, Loghain?"

"Lord Cousland speaks truly!" Bann Sighard yelled hurtfully. "Howe stole my only son under cover of night! The things done to him….Some of them are beyond any healer's skill!"

"Howe was responsible for himself." Loghain waved off. "Whatever crimes Howe commited he will answer for in the afterlife, as must we all."

"Fuck the Afterlife!" Aedan spat. "Everyone must first face the judgment of those they wronged first!"

"And you would know that perfectly well, wouldn't you, Cousland. You're the one who murdered him." Loghain accused truthfully. "No matter what Howe may have done, he should have been brought before the seneschal! There is no justice in butchering a man in his home!"

"You mean like what Howe did to me?" Aedan's voice was laced with venom and hatred. "Or, how about, like when you sent an apostate to murder Arl Eamon in his home?"

"I assure you, Warden, if I was going to kill anyone I would use my own soldiers. I would never stoop to so low as to trust the discretion of an apostate."

"Is that so, Loghain?" Bann Alfstanna questioned incredulously. "My brother tells a very different tale. He says you had him imprisoned after you snatched up a bloodmage from the Chantry's justice. I doubt that is a coincidence."

"Do not think the Chantry will overlook this, Teryn Loghain!" The Grand Cleric warned dangerously. For once Aedan was glad to have the Chantry's presence in their politics. "Interference with a Templar's sacred duty is an offense against the Maker!"

"Everything I have done, I have done for the good of Ferelden!" Loghain declared powerfully. "If my actions were too much, or my sacrifice was too great, I will answer for them to the Maker! No one else!"

"Fuck the Maker! Everyone, even kings must answer to the Landsmeet first!" Aedan voice was full of resolve and bitter hatred. You have forgotten what it means to be a Fereldan!"

"Enough of this!" Loghain shouted threateningly. "Right now I want to know what you've done with my daughter."

"We're not here for your daughter. We're here for you!"

"You took my daughter, our queen by force!" Loghain accused. "Killing her guards and spiriting her away in the process. What have you done with her? What arts have you employed to keep her? Does she even still live?"

"I believe I can speak for myself." Anora called in all her authority and grace. "Lords and ladies of Ferelden, here me. This man has slandered and attacked my father, The Hero of River Dane, all in an attempt to place a usurper upon Maric's throne. This man and Alistair are too dangerous to be trusted."

"Oh, and she betrays us!" Alistair jibed sarcastically. "How did we not see this coming?"

"I am going to claw out that hag's eyes and wear them as earrings." Morrigan promised.

"Can we slay these people now, kadan?" Sten asked casually.

"I'm with the pygmy ogre on this one." Oghren agreed. "All this talking reminds too much of the Assembly of the Houses."

Leliana couldn't believe what Anora was doing. "Even after we risked our lives to save her she still betrays us? She's no better than her father!"

"Next time we're betrayed by an ungrateful monarch maybe you'll let me slit their throat and toss them in the river before they betray us a second time." Zevran suggested.

"Let me just crush the Lying Queen's pretty head in my hand like a tomato." Shale proposed.

That smug look of victory spread on to Loghain's face. "Who here can deny that Anora is unfit to rule, and who can say that this Alistair is? We know nothing of him, save that he may have royal blood. But for the past five years she has proven an able ruler worthy of the Theirin name. She can lead our people through this crisis, and I can lead her armies."

"Even after our negotiations last night night, you still stab me in the back?" Aedan's tone was murderous.

"I gave the chance to side with me, but you refused to listen." Anora defended. "I will not let you ruin the throne Cailan and I have held. You are the true threat to this nation, I am merely doing what I know to be right."

The room grew silent as all could feel Aedan's presence of authority. "My father once told me that being a leader is not about being right, it's about doing right. You and your father have failed miserably." Aedan turned to all present in the Landsmeet and spoke with a voice that carried like a song and was felt with the force of thunder. "Lords and ladies of the Landsmeet! I will not deny that Anora ruled this country well when we were at peace. But when we needed a ruler, she chose to be her father's daughter and gave him the authority to act against you! And then he breaks one of our most sacred laws and sells our citizens into slavery to fill his coffers! What kind of nation are we if not even our leaders obey our laws?"

"We cannot live that way!" Bann Sighard yelled and was accompanied by agreements from the rest of the Landsmeet.

"You hear that, Anora? They can't live that way!" Aedan demanded from the queen. "No real nation based on freedom can! Every crime Loghain has committed he did as the regent, he did it with the queen's authority. His crimes are her crimes! How can we trust either of them?" Alistair could see Aedan's words ringing true with the nobles. "And throughout this whole war Alistair has fought at my side for this country, not its borders or its economy but for her people. What son of Maric could do any less? The right to choose the path our country takes is in your hands, not the thrones. And that is exactly the right that Loghain has tried to strip from you. But I say exert your right to choose right now. Who do you find worthy of leading you? What say you?"

The whole room grew silent as the lords debated amongst themselves. The tension was so thick you could almost choke on it. Arl Bryland finally broke the silence "South Reach stands with the Grey Wardens."

"The Warden helped me personally in a…family matter." One of the Banns called.

"The Waking Sea stands with the Wardens." Bann Alfstanna voiced.

"Dragon's Peak supports the rightful king, Alistair!" Bann Sighard agreed.

"We of White River fought with Teryn Bryce Cousland!" Called Bann Reginalda. "We stand now with his son."

"The Southern Bannorn supports the Warden!" Another of the banns declared. "It's about time someone came to help us!"

"The Western Hills throw their lot in with the Wardens!" Arl Wullf finally declared. "Maker help us!"

"I stand by Loghain! We've no hope for victory otherwise!" Bann Ceorlic cried.

"The Freeholders of the Bannorn side with the Warden!" A representative of the Fereldan Freeholders announced. "The Blight is coming, we need the Grey Wardens!"

Aedan turned to Loghain whose scowl could shatter glass at this point. "Ferelden has spoken, Loghain! Stand down!"

But Loghain refused to admit defeat or his failure. "Traitors! Which of you stood against the Orlesian Emperor when his troops flattened your fields and raped your wives!?" Loghain angrily turned to Arl Eamon with a hurt look of betrayal on his face. "You fought with us once, Eamon! You cared about this land once, before you got too old and fat, and content to see what you risk. None of you deserve a say in what happens here. None of you have sacrificed for this country the way I have! How dare you judge me!?"

"You didn't sacrifice a damned thing, Loghain!" Aedan countered angrily. "You only sacrificed others! You've lost the right to represent our people!"

"I will not let you destroy my country, Warden!" Loghain declared for all to hear in a threatening manner. Because the regent refused to give up his power made all of the lords, anxious, angry, and well aware to the insanity of Teryn Loghain.

"I'm giving you my final warning, Loghain…." Aedan snarled. "Step down or I'll put you down!"

With that Loghain raised his fist in the air and at least two contingencies of his soldiers poured into the room and stood behind their liege with their swords drawn and their crossbows loaded. This caught all the lords of Ferelden of guard, many of them gasping and yelling out in surprise, fright and anger. "I will not let the stupidity and cowardice of lesser men destroy my nation!"

"What is the meaning of this!?" Bann Alfstanna questioned rhetorically.

"The Teryn is staging a coup!" Arl Wulff growled.

"This is a breach of the Landsmeet!" Arl Bryland angrily declared.

"You've gone too far, Loghain!" Bann Sighard yelled.

"You who would see Ferelden enslaved to foreign powers once again have no right to lead this country!" Loghain yelled like a madman. "I will lead this nation myself!"

"You want a fight, Loghain!? You've got one!" Alistair cried.

"FOR FERELDEN!" Both leaders bellowed as the fight commenced. Loghain's men surged into the throne room with the intent to subdue the nobles present, but they all brought soldiers of their own. Alfstanna's archers shot down every Gwaren soldier before they could get close to her, as Bryland's bodyguards battered the soldiers back. Arl Wulff jumped down from the balcony with his Avvarian hammer and slugging and breaking every soldier he swung at. Anora and many of the freeholders scurried into the back of the room to avoid being caught in the fight.

Aedan and Alistair cut down every soldier blocking their way to Loghain as their companions held of the rest of his men. Alistair finally made it to his brother's betrayer, the one who tried to make Duncan's life in vain. Loghain and Alistair's swords and shields clashed against one another fueled by their hatred for one another. Maric's sword scraped against the Orlesian steel of the Armor of The River Dane, as Loghain's iron sword clanged against the face of Duncan's shield. Both warriors slashed, hammered struck each other with all the might and intensity they could must, filled with the hate and anger for what the other had done or represented.

"In the Maker's name, stop!" the Grand Cleric commanded with the authority of a military commander, forcing everyone stop their fighting. "We will have order."

Aedan was offended that a representative of the Chantry would interfere with a purely Fereldan matter. "Fuck you, you dried out old hag!"

"Agreed." Eamon announced, which was a total kill-joy to Aedan. "Let there be no more bloodshed in the Landsmeet."

"Alistair's right to the throne has been challenged, but his challenger's honor is in serious doubt." The Grand Cleric stated.

"In times past such matters were settled in a duel, either between the opposing parties or their champions."

"Screw that!" Aedan spat. "Loghain has lost all rights to be take up matters of honor!"

"Aedan, please reconsider." Eamon insisted. "If there is way to end this conflict without open war then we must settle it here."

"Why should we even consider this? He has already shamed this Landsmeet with dishonor. How do I know he'll even fight honorably?"

"Though you may count my honor as worth less than nothing, Cousland," Loghain pitched forlornly, "we are standing before the Landsmeet. They will judge us for what we do here."

"You just attempted a coup because the Landsmeet already sided against you, traitor! What makes you think you're worthy of duel of honor?"

"Because…we both want an end to this war." Loghain answered sadly.

Aedan relented, the Landsmeet would have its duel. "So be it. You've been beaten at diplomacy, and now you'll be beaten in combat."

"Heh. In another life I would have liked you." Loghain complimented. "We have more in common than you'd probably care to think. But I suppose we both knew in our heart it would come down to this. A man is made by the qualities of his enemies. Maric told me that once. I wonder if it's more of a compliment to you or me."

"You know, it's funny. Growing up I wanted to be just like you." Aedan informed sardonically. "Now the very mention of your name makes me sick."

"Enough of this. Let the Landsmeet declare the terms of the duel."

"It will be fought in accordance to tradition: a test of arms." Alfstanna called down to the combatants. "The two shall fight until one party yields or is killed. And we of the Landsmeet shall abide by the outcome."

"Will you face me yourself or have you a champion?" Loghain inquired.

"Aedan, let me fight him." Alistair urged fiercely. "Let me fight him so I can avenge Duncan and my brother."

"I'm sorry, Alistair, but no." Aedan answered.

"But why? You know better than anyone what it means to seek justice with your own hands!"

"I am forwarding you to be king. If you slay him here, like this, history will see it as one contender for the throne killing the other." Aedan explained to his brother in arms. "I, however, am still just a Warden in their eyes. A neutral party. I am merely acting in the best interests and salvation of this country. I must defeat him."

"Very well." Alistair sighed. As usual, Aedan's logic was too sound to be ignored.

"It is you or me the men will follow, Cousland." Loghain stated with zeal. "Let us see if the Wardens are as skilled as they claim. Prepare yourself!"

Aedan unsheathed Starfang, raising it above his head as he assumed his stance. "I'll show you exactly what I learned with the Wardens. And just how Howe died."

The two warriors squared off and circled one another, gauging their opponent's movements. Both of them students of war, masters of combat. And sons of Ferelden. Aedan was younger and much less patient, he swung Starfang with incredible force at his enemy. Loghain was older and his body was not what it used to be, but he was more experienced than Aedan. He blocked Aedan's strike with his shield and thrusted a perfect counter riposte at the Warden's heart. Aedan narrowly dodged to the side, narrowly avoiding Loghain's thrust as he used his momentum to swing his sword around to cut off Logain's head. Loghain quickly dodged beneath the blade and backed away from his angry adversary.

Aedan's greatsword had a longer reach on Loghain, but Loghain's masterful use of the shield and sword was legendary in this country. Loghain was a highly skilled and seasoned warrior who made a reputation by killing highly trained chevaliers by the dozens, even when he was outnumbered ten to one. Loghain Mac Tir was truly an opponent worthy of respect. And that, Aedan realized, was his own flaw. Loghain had lost all of Aedan's respect and earned his animosity. Aedan decided it was time to stop fighting like he respected Loghain, and fight like he hated him.

"FOR OSTAGAR!" Aedan screamed as he speared his greatsword at his adversary like lance! Loghain was able to block the precise, fearsome strike, but the sheer force of the blow sent the older warrior staggering back. Loghain could no longer attack or counter. All the Hero of River Dane could do was desperately defend himself against the onslaught of attacks Aedan rained down blow after blow on his wyvern painted shield. The Warden was drunk with rage as he pounded on Loghain's shield as if he were hammering an anvil. Starfang's edge cut down through the shield, splitting the yellow wyvern's head in half. With Aedan's sword stuck in his ruined shield, Loghain seized the opportunity to thrust his sword right into Aedan chest!

Morrigan shrieked an earsplitting cry as the entire Landsmeet saw Loghain's blade pierce Aedan's body. Aedan felt the searing pain of the sword tip penetrating him. The blade barely missed his heart, but he caught Loghain's blade in his off hand. Blood trickled down Loghain's swords as Aedan's chest and hand bled from its cutting edge. Loghain pushed all his might and weight behind the sword in an attempt to skewer Aedan's heart. But Aedan's resolve wasn't through. Aedan wanted to win more than Loghain ever could! Being honorable became too difficult for Loghain, and it was why he resorted to doing everything that was against Fereldan values. But Aedan was still a Fereldan!

"I am Aedan of Highever! I will not yield!" He clenched Loghain's blade in his fist and forcefully pulled it out of his chest. Loghain's strength was dwarfed by Aedan's as his strength became greater from his pain and anger. Aedan forced the blade out of his chest and brought Starfang down on the iron blade, snapping it into pieces! Without a moment's pause, with one last powerful swing, Aedan slashed Starfang across Loghain's chest, cleaving the legendary Armor of The River Dane open!

It was Anora's turn to scream as a wave of crimson spurted from the crevice in Loghain's breastplate as he fell to his knees. "I underestimated you, Cousland." Loghain rasped as he coughed and spat blood out of his mouth. "I thought you were like Cailan, a child wanting to play at war. I was wrong. There is a strength in you I haven't seen since Maric died. I yield."

Aedan reared Starfang back. "I hope you made your peace, Loghain. Tonight you sleep in hell!"

"Wait!" Riordan cried, forcing Aedan to stop his death blow. "There is another option."

"We don't have enough time to have him drawn, disemboweled and quartered, Riordan." Aedan retorted.

"That is not what I mean at all. The teryn is a warrior and general of great reknown. Let him be of use. Let him go through the Joining."

Aedan couldn't fathom the very words coming Riordan's mouth. "Are you fucking insane, Riordan!?"

"There are too few of us in Ferelden, my friend." Riordan explained calmly, as if Loghain's crimes were nothing. "We aren't judges and executioners. Kinslayers, carta thugs, thieves, assassins and apostates. All are allowed to join our ranks. Any with the skill and mettle to take up arms against the darkspawn are welcome among us."

"Then it's time for the Wardens to raise their standards!" Aedan shouted.

"The Joining is often fatal, is it not?" Anora asked pleadingly. "If he survives you get a general, and if he doesn't you get your revenge. Does this not satisfy you?"

"Absolutley not!" Alistair objected ardently. "Riordan, this man killed our brothers and then framed us for the deed! He sold people into slavery, he tortured you! How can we let this go unanswered?"

"There are only three of us in the whole country, Alistair. And there are…compelling reasons to have as many Wardens as possible, especially during a Blight." The Senior Warden answered disquietly.

"That is unacceptable!" Alistair shot back. "If you let this man join our ranks, you cheapen us all!"

"And this is the man you want to forward as king, Aedan?" Anora questioned spitefully, looking at Alistair as though he were a petulant child. "Do you really think you can afford to lose a skilled general and a proven leader over Alistair's tantrum?"

"But we can afford to lose a king and an army?" Alistair retorted returning Anora's angered look. "Whose tantrum cost us that?"

"Silence!" Aedan commanded. "Riordan, you interfere with these proceedings again and I'll forget all bonds of brotherhood when I snap your neck in my hands." Riordan didn't seem bothered by Aedan's death promise. "Loghain's fate isn't for you, or even me to decide." Aedan turned to face the Landsmeet. "My lords and ladies of the Landsmeet. It was your lands Loghain tried to take, and left to the darkspawn. It was your sons and brothers he left to die at Ostagar. And it was the rights and priveleges he tried to usurp from us and our citizens. What would you have done with him?" Utter silence washed over all those present at the Landsmeet. The fate of the Hero of River Dane in their hands.

"Death!" Bann Sighard answered fervently.

Bann Alfstanna noded her head. "Death."

"His crimes can only be answered with his life." Arl Bryland answered. "Death."

"Agreed. If we must obey the law, then so must he." Arl Wulff called. "Death."

"I am sorry, my lord." Bann Ceorlic cried. "Death."

"Death!" The bann of the Southren Bannorn yelled.

"After what he did to Bann Grainne and her husband, death is too good for him!" Bann Reginalda screamed. "But this will have to do."

"Death! Death. Death…Death!" The Freeholders of the bannorn called.

"You hear that, Anora!?" Aedan growled. "Ferelden. Has. Spoken!"

"You can't do this!" Anora protested. "My father may have been wrong, but he is still a hero to the people!"

"Anora, hush. It's over." Loghain soothed in an unfamiliar tone.

"Stop treating me like a child!" Anora cried. "This is serious!"

"Daughters never grow up, Anora. They always remain six years old with pigtails and skinned knees forever."

Anora's regal façade finally fell from her face as despaired tears fell down her face. "Father…." She wept.

"Just finish it quickly, Lord Cousland." Loghain bade. "I can face the Maker knowing Ferelden is in your hands."

"So be it." Aedan obliged with murder in his eyes. "Kneel before your rightful king, Loghain." But even on the verge of his own death Loghain refused to yield. "I said…KNEEL!" Aedan smashed his mailed boot in Loghain's knee, breaking it and forcing him down.

"No!" Anora cried trying to reach out to her father.

"Restrain her!" Aedan ordered as two Redcliffe knights held the queen back.

Aedan stood above his defeated foe, his star metal sword tightly in his hand. He had been waiting for this moment since Ostagar. The man who was once like a hero to him was now the embodiment of everything he hated. All the lives lost, the values he betrayed, the people he murdered. Now he would face true Fereldan justice. He remembered the words he recited to Avernus back at Soldier's Peak. "Loghain Mac Tir, for the crimes you have committed against the people of Ferelden, conspiracy to commit murder, regicide, treason, and for partaking in the heinous crime of slavery, I, Aedan Cousland, acting Warden-Commander of the Grey in Ferelden, by the will of the Landsmeet and the authority of our rightful King Alistair Theirin, sentence you to die. Have you any final words?"

Loghain lowered his head and submitted to his final judgment. "Long live Ferelden." Aedan raised his sword high above his head, and then let it fall. Blood spurted on to his face, Loghain's body hit the ground. The Starfang performed its grisly task flawlessly. And thus ended the life of Loghain Mac Tir, The Hero of River Dane and a savior of Ferelden.

Aedan picked up Loghain's severed head and hocked a lugi into his dead eyes. "Never looked better you son of a bitch. Here!" He tossed the head to one of the guards. "Take that over to Fort Drakon. And pike where Meghren's head used to be." The guard obeyed.

"And so it is decided. Alistair will take his place on his father's throne." Eamon announced.

"I humbly accept this responsibility if the Landsmeet will have me." Alistair was finally ready to take up his father's and his brother's mantle.

"Anora, the Landsmeet has sided against you." Eamon informed with full authority. "You must swear allegiance to our rightful king and forswear any claim to the throne for you or your heirs."

Anora glared at the arl and Alistair hatefully. "If you think I'll swear that oath, Eamon, then you know nothing of me."

"Alright!" Aedan laughed madly. "We get to chop down the whole family tree in one day!" he lifted his sword to Anora's neck. "I say we pike her head right next to her daddy's!"

"Wait!" Alistair ordered. "We still might have need of her."

"Alistair we cannot leave the country in a state of civil war if we are to combat the Blight." Eamon insisted. "If she will not swear fealty to you then she is a threat to us all."

"Put her in the tower for now. If I fall in the Blight she can have her damned throne. If I live, then we'll see…." Aedan had to admit, that was intimidatingly ominous of Alistair.

Even Anora couldn't believe Alistair's words. "You'l still give me a chance for the throne? Even after all this?"

"I said if I fall, Anora. If I fall the throne goes to you. Someone has to take this Blight seriously."

"That is…uncharacteristically wise of you."

"Yeah, well don't let it out. I've got a reputation to live up to."

Eamon agreed with this decision. "Very well. Guards! Take her away."

"Wait one moment." Morrigan demanded. The witch walked up to the former queen and slapped her right across the face, drawing blood with her sharp nails! Anora cried in pain and shock as she pressed her hand to her gashed cheek.

Aedan took Morrigan right into his arms and kissed her in the most passionate and inappropriate of manners. "You are the most beautiful woman I ever met."

Morrigan was left slightly weak-kneed from that kiss. "I know. And I warned her before. No one betrays my Warden a second time when I'm around."

"Ahem. Er, King Alistair, would you please address the Landsmeet." Eamon insisted.

"Oh! That's, uh, me, isn't it?" Alistair was still very unused to this prospect. "Ahem! I-I may be, Maric's son and I may be king, but I am still a Warden first. And I must perform my sworn duty to protect this nation from the darkspawn. No matter the cost to myself."

"Come on, Alistair, let's get to the ass kicking already." Aedan urged.

"I was getting to that!" Alistair whispered back. "Uh, this is not the first time Ferelden has been threatned by the darkspawn, nor is it the first time Ferelden has stood alone against the Blight. But like Teryn Hafter before us, we will drive the darkspawn horde back into the earth!" Alistair newfound powers of public speaking earned him a loud cheer from the Landsmeet. "My fellow Grey Ward will, I hope, stand beside me against the darkspawn."

Aedan smiled bowed with deference. "I could do no less. For my country and my king."

"Okay, that's a load off my back." Alistair sighed. "Everyone get ready to march! We will need all of Ferelden's strength if we are to meet this Blight."

All the nobles cheered and bowed to their new king. At one point Alistair would have thought that this was too much, but after speaking with his half-sister he believed there was actually some good her could do. Alistair looked over to his companions. Aedan and Wynne knelt before their new king as Oghren pumped his fist with excitement, and Zevran applauded cheerfully. Leliana curtsied endearingly to her friend, while Sten nodded his head in respect. Morrigan…did nothing, but that was no surprise. It was funny. Alistair never grew up in a castle, never rubbed elbows with lords, but by growing up in an abbey, being hunted and starved, and living through a Blight he learned what it meant to be king. Was this what it was like for Maric?

And now it was done. Aedan's family had been avenged. His king, the Grey Wardens and all the patriots at Ostagar had been given justice. Now he could finally face the true enemy of his nation without any reservations or regrets. All that remained now was to face down the Archdemon. The only question that remained was how would three Wardens accomplish such a feat?

Author's Note:

Okay! I got this part done! Justice is served! Please tell me what you think. Do ya love it, do ya hate it? Please tell me, I gotta know! Once again, I claim and own nothing.