DISCLAIMER: I base my stories on Intellectual Property (IP) owned by BioWare ™ and EA™. I pretend to live in their world.
SPOILERS: I refer to information from the games, the novels and the comics. If you have not played or read, please beware.
CHAPTER 26: DO NOT DOUBT9:30 Dragon === Justinian – Hrothgar's Wrath Camp
Nathaniel looked up from the map he had been studying. "Ly…Mel, good morning."
Mel smiled. "You look worried. Is it me? Or your campaign plans?"
Nate chuckled softly. "A little of both?"
"Are you alright?" Mel chewed at her lip. "Anders healed you?"
"I'm fine, Mel. Your reaction was understandable. We should have warned you."
"Pippa should have. I would have demanded to see you right away, probably yelled a lot, but that would have been better. No weapons drawn. Just knowing both she and Mum met you and accepted your story-"
"-my story? You make it sound as if I made it up."
"No, I…your explanation? What word would you prefer?"
He shook his head. "Sorry. I shouldn't be so sensitive. I'm apprehensive about my reception in Highever." His grin had a rueful edge. "The first test – you – didn't go well."
"You'll be with Pippa, not bumping into half-awake women."
"We'll carry banners to identify us. No Bears, only Higheverport, Highever Teyrnir, and Cousland banners Your Mum provided the laurel banner."
"Good. Pippa, will make sure everyone knows you're there to recover the lands for her and…for Fergus." She noted his raised eyebrows. "As I've said, I choose to believe Fergus is alive. I expect he'll make his way to South Reach and Uncle Leonas will support him."
"I hope so, Mel, but are you sure-"
"-Alistair was at Ostagar. So were the three other wardens. Fergus was not. He led a full company of Highever troops and three wardens. He was scouting, not engaging in battle with the Horde. He may have been forced far into the Wilds, but he'll make his way out."
Nathaniel recognized the determined look and grinned. "You tend to get what you want when you have that look, Mel. You're right – If anyone can bring his troops through, it's Fergus. I'll choose to believe the same."
"Nate, you should carry the Bear as well. Mark yourself as the true heir to Amaranthine."
He stared at her. "I…"
"It's your inheritance, Nate. Honor those who came before you."
"My grandfather? Your grandfather hung him."
"I was thinking of your Uncle Byron, Nate."
His eyes drifted away, unfocused. "Maybe a pennant or a patch." He looked down at the map. "Now, help me out here. I could use more detail on those campsites you showed me."
Mel squeezed his arm before she leaned over the map next to him. "Fergus would tell you the same," she said quietly.
"Thank you." His mouth twitched at the corners. "He probably would."
"You two were up early." Pippa led Alistair, Zevran, and Kai into the command tent. They found Nate and Mel bent over the map, marking locations and murmuring to each other
"I wondered where you got off to," Alistair added, standing next to Mel.
Mel leaned over and kissed his check. "Avoiding temptation," she whispered. "You needed to pack."
Alistair chuckled. "Well…I'll provide more temptation later."
Pippa set mugs of tea on the table, carefully keeping them away from the parchment map.
Nate straightened up and brushed her cheek with his knuckles. "Work to do. I need to send patrols out today. The tide turns before Nones." He looked at Alistair. "We can drop your group off on the Little Sister on our way to the mainland if you're ready to leave."
"We are." He glanced out at the water dripping off the tent flap. "Although, I would have preferred sun!"
o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o
Pippa's fingers brushed Nate's hand as the galley pushed off.
"We'll see them again before they head south."
"I know. It's just odd, seeing everyone again all grown up. That summer at Highever…it seems like yesterday. Reviving that competition was silly of me, but…that was such a perfect day."
"Alistair enjoyed it." Pippa kept her tone neutral.
Nate snorted. "He won. Again." His smile faded. "And I missed Fergus. I think he did too."
"Do you think Mel is right? That Fergus lives?"
Nate shrugged. "As she said, she chooses to believe that." He looked at Pippa and, uncharacteristically, put his arm around her in front of his troops. "So do I," he said softly. He squeezed her shoulders, removed his arm and resumed his soldierly stance.
Justinian === On the Wrath Galley
The four companions and Shep crowded into the prow of the galley where a waxed canvas tarp protected them from some of the rain and spray. The six members of the Wrath patrol huddled beneath the protection of the steering platform in the stern. The wind had blown the storm in from the north, roiling the waters of the inner passage between the Middle Sister and mainland as they entered from the more protected channel bordering Weyland's Hope. The wind gusts varied in speed and strength, making sailing tricky in the narrow channel. The captain chose to row the galley and forego the use of its sails. It would take most of the day to row to the secluded inlet on the Little Sister where the galley would anchor for the night.
The small cove, known to the captain from prior trips, lay just south of the hidden path the Rasiae had taken at midsummer to get to the island. Alistair and his companions would leave the galley, its crew and the Wrath patrol in the morning to make their way inland to the Lirmue and Rasiae clan camps. Kai assured the group that they could reach the clan camps in a day's walk. She and Mel thought Alistair should approach Keeper Lilia first and get her thoughts before approaching the Lirmue Keeper, Anthea. Dalish don't decide things quickly, Kai had remarked. Mel agreed. She suggested the galley return in a week to pick them up for the return trip to the Wrath's camp.
While Kai, Mel and Zevran chatted and snuggled around Shep for warmth, Alistair fidgeted. It was too wet to bring out his drawing materials. While he knew he should ask more questions about the Rasiae, his mind kept drifting to the conversations about his mother. An Orlesian, elven, mage, Grey Warden. I'm a half Orlesian, elf-blooded Theirin who might have been a mage. No wonder King Maric hid me away. And Loghain stopped visiting once he found out. He frowned. I'm assuming that. Mel didn't say that. She said he found out much later, but before King Maric died. Loghain visited me after he knew. By then he knew I wasn't a mage, or an Orlesian sympathizer, just elf-blooded. He must have wondered later if my mother had anything to do with me becoming a warden. Or if she would want me to come to Orlais. Did she? If she didn't want me at King Maric's court, she wouldn't want me at the Empire's. "Ugh!" He groaned aloud. No wonder he thought I would cooperate with Orlais. He knows I always wanted a family.
Mel, Zevran and Kai looked up at his groan.
"Are you alright?"
"Fine," he snapped and then huffed and shook his head. "Sorry. Just having disturbing thoughts. I'm going to see if the captain needs an oarsman." He got up and made his way between the benches to the stern, where the captain stood on the platform by the steering oar.
Mel watched him. "He's thinking about some information I provided on the way to camp. It's hard for him."
"Trying to reconcile him with Loghain?" Kai asked.
"No, but I'm hoping he'll agree to meet with Anora when we get to Denerim. Loghain can wait. I'm more concerned about her. If she's alright."
"You think Loghain would harm her?" Kai whispered.
"No. At least not the Loghain I know, but…we heard so many rumors at the Docks. That he's regent. That he's king. That Howe's his right hand. And no word of Anora or Elin. Or Delilah. Only that Howe is Arl of Denerim, calling himself Teyrn and advising Loghain. Nate said his intelligence was the same. His father spends his time in Denerim or at the Vigil. Thomas stays in Highever to command…" Mel sniffed, "…to command Howe's troops in subduing the Coastlands. Nate heard that he's advised by a captain Howe trusts, but not Captain Lowan who led the attack…that night. Lowan's at the Vigil."
"So Nate will face his brother, not his father?" Kai asked.
"Both, at some point, but, yes, Thomas first. He knows and accepts that." Mel's brow furrowed slightly. "I don't envy him that, despite what they've done to us and him. I can't imagine fighting a brother or a father. I'm glad he and Pippa will face it together." She noticed Zevran's gaze stray to toward the stern as a slow smile spread across his face.
"Zev?" Mel turned toward the stern and watched a bare-chested Alistair walk down the center board and settle onto one of the rowing benches, replacing one of the Wrath warriors. He took the oar in hand and began to row in time with the other oarsmen, his baritone joining their chant. Muscles rippled across his back as he stroked.
"Ah, Melysande, he is a lovely specimen," Zev grinned.
Kai snorted. "More fodder for your efforts to make him blush I suppose."
"But of course, cara. Tell me you do not appreciate that broad back, those flexing muscles, those firm, strong arms."
Mel stared at him, while Kai laughed. "You'll make Mel jealous if you're not careful, Zevran."
"Can I not appreciate beauty when I see it, carissima? If he were a statue we would all gaze at him in awe. Why not a living man?'
Mel looked down, a slight smile on her lips. "He is lovely, isn't he? I still don't always believe he's my Ali when I look at him." Her grin turned mischievous. "Sadly, his perfect ass is not visible."
Zev's eyes lit up. "Ah, but rowing will only improve it, cara. Imagine how the muscles tighten when he pulls and release as he lets the oar go forward-"
"Alright, Zev, enough." Mel giggled softly.
"You're blushing, Mel." Kai smiled. "Under all that armor at the tournament last Solace, you couldn't tell what he looked like, but now…. He is handsome, for a human." Kai tilted her head, pursed her lips and stared at Zev. "I prefer my men elven, slender and muscular. Tall is good, but definitely not a human."
Mel looked up at the edge to Kai's voice as she spoke the last words. "That's not a surprise, given your experiences with humans. I call Vaughan a vile creature, but, sadly, he is human."
Kai's bitter laugh surprised her. Zevran reached out and squeezed Kai's shoulder.
"What did I miss?" Mel asked, suddenly serious.
Kai shrugged. "Just…Vaughan wasn't the only shem…human who gave me trouble, just the worst. I didn't fear for my life with most of them, like I did with him."
"You never said-"
"-you were fifteen Mel. Not something I would tell a fifteen year old human girl I hardly knew. It's not something that mattered later. Myfanwy didn't even know. Higheverport was safer, and not just because I worked for your family. She didn't have the experiences I had. No reason to say anything." She shrugged. "You and I never got involved with men while we traveled. You never asked me why, because you avoided it as well. We both had men whose attentions we didn't want. We dealt with it. With others we flirted, but it never went any farther. None of it was like Denerim. I didn't, and still don't, want to resume my life there, but I have put it behind me."
"I didn't know. You must have hated our time at the palace."
"Mel, the palace is not Denerim. Wearing Cousland livery with the royal patch, no one bothered me."
"Well, I still should have understood better." Mel looked from Zevran to Kai. "Zev's helped you."
Kai grinned. "Yeah…you could say that. He understood, so I could talk to him. I never told anyone…well, except Ariel. I did talk with her some, when I wanted to discourage Darae."
Mel's eyes widened. "Darae courted you?"
"It didn't get that far. Ariel spoke with him and then he and I talked. We're friends. He met a woman in the Lirmue clan. Keeper Anthea and Keeper Lilia have approved of the match, just not agreed on which clan they will join."
She watched Mel's face shift from relief to concern. "Now don't you start. You did nothing but good things for me, Mel. If I had wanted a romance, there were plenty of young men in the Higheverport alienage. Nelaros and others. I didn't. When Nelaros preferred Aemilia I was thrilled…for them and for me. Saved me from a row with my father when Nelaros declined the match. For that matter I could have been with Zevran all those years ago. I wasn't ready. This time, I was. We talked and…other things and it's all good now.'
Zevran put his arm around her and she leaned into him.
"Fine. I…well, I would have listened."
"I know."
Mel chuckled. "I couldn't provide the same comfort as Zevran."
Kai's smile was genuine. "No, you couldn't.
"Now, I suggest we lean back, relax and enjoy the view," Zevran said. "Only not too much, carissima, or I shall have to get up and row as well."
The galley rose as each wave hit the bow and then dropped into the trough. The captain directed his mate to steer the prow into the waves keeping them on an easterly course, but well in the middle of the channel. The weather had cooled, causing mist to rise off the warmer coastal waters. Mixed with the rain, the mist obscured the coastline of the Middle Sister and the farther coast of the mainland as they passed. It would also obscure the view of any one on shore looking to identify passing ships.
If Mel leaned back and closed her eyes, she could almost pretend this was a coastal trip from Higheverport. The smell of the sea, the sounds of the waves hitting the bow, and the scream of the gulls overhead all reminded her of trips from home. Kai and Zev chatted softly, their words muffled by the wind and rain. She opened her eyes and looked at Alistair's back, wishing he would return and cuddle with her, but she understood his need to be alone and think. Maker knows I've ruined enough sparring dummies to understand how physical effort can help clear your mind and sooth your emotions. Although I hope not all his emotions get soothed. She giggled loud enough to cause Zev and Kai to eye her in surprise. She grinned at them and settled back against her pack, closing her eyes again. The waves hit the prow at a regular sequence.
At least Anders survived his Joining. He and Alistair had disappeared after the evening meal last night and only Alistair had returned. He had whispered, he made it, letting Mel know Anders had survived. Mel knew Alistair would have taken it hard had Anders died, but the mage had survived and awakened in time to see them off. He would remain with the Nevarran wardens who would oversee his recovery and explain more about being a warden. Alistair had spoken with him on the way to the Wrath's camp and explained what the Joining meant. He gave Anders the choice of leaving and becoming an apostate…again or staying and becoming a warden. Anders decided to stay. Knowing the importance Alistair placed on choices, she was not surprised. Knowing the consequences of the Joining and the premium Warden's placed on secrecy, she could only feel proud and pleased that Ander's choice had worked out.
I'll be Tranquil or dead in a year if I run. And I can't heal without getting caught. At least as a warden I can use my skills. Anders had grinned. All of them. I can heal, flirt, and shoot lightening at fools! Seeing Alistair's skeptical look, he added, and darkspawn. Besides, I owe you. You saved my life all those years ago. And Kat's. Those templars would have killed us and claimed we tried to escape.
o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o
Zev squinted into the gusting rain. "Cara," he whispered to Kai, "does Alistair have scars on his back?"
Kai leaned forward and stared. "I think so, but how-"
"-please don't mention it to him."
Zev and Kai turned towards Mel. "Sorry, didn't mean to wake you," Zev said. "You know about the scars?"
"I do. It's not my story to tell."
"I assumed the templars had done that," said Kai, "but if you know…."
Mel sighed. "Yes, it happened before he went to Dragon's Peak."
"Do not worry, cara, I do not ask about such things. I understand."
"I've never asked you," Mel replied. "I've seen you in the sparring grounds."
"No. You are right. Explaining scars belongs to the scarred. I appreciate your discretion. You can count on mine." He looked at Kai who nodded. "And Kai's. It's surprising, though, for someone who did not grow up a slave or servant."
"He's told you he lived in the kennels and the stables, Zev. Why do you think he wasn't a servant?"
"He knew you, Nathaniel, Loghain, the Queen…those are not the acquaintances of a servant." Zevran frowned. "Quite a story there I assume?"
"His."
Zev nodded.
"His?"
"Ali," Mel's head snapped up and she fumbled for a cloth. "Here, get under the tarp and dry off."
"You don't need to protect me, Mel."
"I'm not, but I won't tell your story. It's yours."
He nodded. "That's fair, then. " He lips quirked, but he did not smile. He sat down, his back to Mel, Zev and Kai. "Would you dry me off?"
Mel rubbed the cloth over his scars.
"I grew up in Redcliffe, because my father wanted me away from his…Court. I say Court, because, my father was King Maric." He turned back to Zev and Kai. "I'm guessing you knew that, Kai."
She nodded.
Zev smirked. "So you're a prince?"
"No. I'm a bastard and I've already heard the royal bastard comments."
Zev chuckled. "In Antiva royal bastards often have short lives."
"Remind me not to become an Antivan royal bastard then." He snorted. "Being a Grey Warden is bad enough."
"See, I knew you were wise." He saw Mel frown. "Continue, your-"
Kai punched his arm.
Zev sighed. "I will be serious. No more comments. What happened next?"
Alistair shook his head. "My…father…sent me to live with his brother-in-law, the Arl of Redcliffe. I guess it was fine when I was very young. I don't remember much, but I know I lived in the keep and had a nurse. The Arl's betrothed, later his wife, thought I was his bastard. The Arl, keeping the king's secret, could only insist I was not his child. She didn't believe him. She saw I was moved out of the keep, first to the kennels, where I was the dog boy. I introduced myself to Mel as Dog Boy, I think?"
She nodded.
"Later, when I was bigger, I became a stable hand and lived in the stables."
"Moved up in the world, then," Zev said quietly. "Warmer anyway."
Alistair looked back over his shoulder. "Up to the loft, so warmer yes, but still not far enough from the Arlessa. She had me whipped regularly, which just hurt, but sometimes she would have them use a lash. That's where the scars came from. Eventually, my father, Teyrn Loghain, and Teyrn Cousland found out, thanks to Mel, and my life changed for the better, but she still punished me. So they sent me to Dragon's Peak, and I think you all know the rest."
"And you don't want to go back. So you came here, and sent Liam there."
"No, Zev, I don't, but I will. In truth, coming here was necessary. I needed to meet with the Nevarran wardens and I need to meet with the Dalish. I would be a distraction in Redcliffe, if the Arl is sick. The Arlessa and the Revered Mother in the castle's chapel would resent me being there. This way, everyone can focus on healing the Arl. Once he's healed and his brother, Bann Teagan, is there, I can show up and be useful. Liam will prepare them, so I won't be a surprise. So that's my story. You know, Nate and Pippa know…well, maybe not the King Maric part?" He looked at Mel.
"If they don't know officially, they will have guessed, Ali. The attention when you were younger, and your looks."
"Duncan knew, but none of the other wardens."
"So you and Mel both have secrets, but know about you."
Alistair nodded.
Zev looked at Mel. "Taina, Morrigan and Liam know who you are, yes?"
Mel nodded. "inner circle. The others might trade me for gold. Well, probably not Daveth, but…. Or trade Alistair to the Orlesians. Our Chantry Bard…who might be a Seeker…worries me most."
Alistair put his arm around Mel and looked at Kai. "In Redcliffe or anywhere nobles gather, you two are the bigger problem."
Zev looked at the two women, eyebrows raised.
"The Arlessa might recognize us from Court," Mel explained. "We'll just stay in the town, while Alistair goes to the castle. Maybe you too, Zev."
"As his bodyguard?"
Alistair sighed and shook his head, then smiled. "No! As my spy. You can collect intelligence. Find out how many Orlesians are there."
"They conspire? With Orlais?"
"The Arlessa is Orlesian. So yes, we believe they conspire. Alistair is right, intelligence will help. And you can keep Alistair safe! We don't want the Arlessa sending him to Orlais." Me squinted into the rain, thinking. "The Arlessa will be distracted. She's a horrible woman, but she does love the Arl. If he's ill, she'll focus only on that. Kai and I will find out what we can in the town. No one there will recognize us. I haven't been to Redcliffe in years."
"That's a plan. Now we need to get ready. I stopped rowing, because they're getting close to the inlet where the galley will anchor for the night. It's also where we disembark. We'll camp on shore tonight. Kai can lead us to the Dalish camp in the morning."
Justinian === The Rasiae Clan Camp
"Halt!" The voice came from the forest. Before they could react, a score of elves dropped from trees or burst from the underbrush, surrounding Alistair's party and surprising even Shep.
Kai stepped forward. "Who is the leader?"
"Adaia." The Dalish elf to her right addressed Kai by her Dalish name. "You have returned."
"Of course I've returned. This is my home."
"Fenriel said you would come, but…some of us were not sure."
"Some of you…you mean you, Gytha?"
The elven woman shrugged. "Me. Others."
Kai sighed. "Andaran atish'an, Gytha. As you see, I come with companions. You know Melys and Shep, her mabari. Alistair is the other human, Zevran the elf. Please let us continue to the clan camp."
"Andaran atish'an." Gytha nodded and stepped back. At that, the others greeted both Kai and Mel before fading back into the forest.
"Well, that was…disconcerting?"
Mel laughed. "Feeling large and clumsy, Ali?"
"A bit. I couldn't disappear that easily into a fog bank."
Zevran patted him on the arm. "You have other qualities, Alistair."
Alistair rolled his eyes. "Let's not go there again, Zevran. My butt and back are not objects for discussion today."
Chuckling, the group continued down the narrow track between tall hardwood trees. This far north, the forest had fewer pines, more hardwoods and a healthy understory nourished by spring and autumn sunlight and the mulch formed by fallen leaves and branches. The weather had improved, but rain squalls marred their walk, allowing only intermittent sunlight to flicker through the heavy Justinian canopy of leaves. Rushing streams covered stepping stones, leaving wet feet and ankles. Disturbed branches, loosing a shower of water droplets on their heads, left them wondering if the rain had resumed. Damp, tired and chilled, as the wind freshened towards evening, the four companions finally arrived at the Rasiae encampment. Kai and Mel called out greetings as they approached.
"Aneth ara, my friends."
Heads poked out of aravels, peeked around the side of the large land ships and looked up from work. The forest trail entered the camp from the south. The Keeper's aravel lay to the right of the main path. The Fenharial aravel lay off the path, to the west, but Finian's wood shop stood opposite Keeper Lilia's aravel. Finian strode out to greet Kai and wrap Mel in a hug.
"Lethallan! Creators, it is so good to find you safe." He nodded his approval to Kai. "Adaia, you succeeded. Fenriel brought us the news, but," he stepped back but kept his hand on Mel's shoulders, "to see you here safe…it is beyond words." Finian looked at the two men. "Your friends?"
"Finian, this is Alistair. You might remember me speaking of him when I was younger."
"Yes, the boy from Redcliffe. I take it there might be a story behind him being here?"
"A long one, Finian."
"Then we shall save it for the fire." He turned to Alistair. "Welcome, lethallin. We welcome any friend of Adaia and Melys in these strange times."
Alistair bowed awkwardly, giving Mel a questioning glance. She nodded encouragement.
"I am honored to be here Finian…umm…you are my elder. Is there some other way I should address you?"
Another voice answered. "No, lethallin, but it is courteous of you to ask."
Alistair turned. A petite, white-haired elf with piercing blue eyes walked towards the group.
"I am Keeper Lilia. Welcome to our clan."
Alistair bowed again, this time more confidently.
"And you, Melys. I can only echo Finian's joy in seeing you. I will add my sorrow for your losses. Your father was a righteous man. We will miss him."
"Thank you, Keeper. Mum and I miss him too."
Lilia turned to Zevran. "And you. You are not Dalish, but not of an Alienage either."
Kai covered her mouth to hide a grin at Zevran's surprise.
Zevran responded with courtesy, also bowing. "I am not, exactly. I am from Antiva City, but I am a Crow. I belong to a league of assassins and mercenaries for hire, Keeper."
"Ah…yes, I have heard of your…league." Her brow wrinkled. "You belong voluntarily?"
"No. They purchased me when I was a child, an orphan."
"And your parents?"
"My father I never knew, although he lived in Antiva City. My mother…she was a Dalish elf who left her clan and went to the city with my father."
"Ah. I wondered. Your pride shows through, lethallin." Keeper Lilia's brow smoothed as she smiled.
By this time a larger crowd had gathered. Kai and Mel quietly hugged Sarae, Ariel, Finian, Darae and several other good friends. Ariel exchanged a glance with Keeper Lilia and then spoke.
"Now, all of you come with me to our aravel. You will stay with us. We will visit tonight. Tomorrow you can speak with Keeper Lilia. There will be time for you to meet the entire camp tomorrow night."
The other elves murmured their agreement. When Alistair and Zevran turned back to take their leave of the keeper they found her already gone. They followed Kai and Mel to the Fenharial camp, while the other elves returned to their work.
Settling by the fire to keep out of the way, Alistair watched the Mel and Kai decide sleeping arrangements and stow the packs. The way Mel blended into the Dalish routine surprised Alistair. Where he felt awkward and out of place, she immediately began preparing herbs for processing and discussing healing methods with Ariel. Clearly, she was not considered a guest, but expected, or encouraged, to become part of the clan. He looked at Zevran, expecting he would feel out of place too, but Zevran and Finian had engaged in a discussion about the merits of ironbark.
Finian looked up. "Zevran says you shoot, Alistair. Come. We're going to the workshop to look at bows. We'll leave the women to their talk. Unless…do you want to join us, Adaia?"
Kai shook her head. "No, you three go. I'll help Ariel and Mel. I can at least begin the dinner preparations while they work." She gave Zev and Alistair a smile.
Alistair trailed along behind Zevran and Finian. The Dalish camp spread out across a clearing. Aravels dotted the space in no identifiable pattern. Statues of animals and elves bordered what seemed to be pathways. As he passed each camp, the lilting strains of Dalish sounded pleasing, even if he understood nothing. All he elves worked, whether at their family camp or at one of the artisan's aravels. Some elves must be hunting or guarding the approaches, although Kai said the Rasiae and Lirmue shared those tasks. To the southwest, hunters prepared game and worked the skins. Southwest will be downwind on most days. That's a good idea. Off to one side he could just make out a corral with white…horses? They must be halla. I feel like I'm in a minstrel's tale. He realized Finian had stopped at his worktable.
"Your first time in a Dalish camp?"
"Yes. It's…well, it's like something out of a tale." Alistair blushed. "I don't mean…."
"No offense taken, Alistair. We work hard to remain invisible to our human neighbors. That must make us seem not quite real to you."
"But you speak the Common Tongue well."
"Some of us trade with humans and dwarves. We learn it by necessity. Our clan lived much of the time in Highever. There, we did not seek out humans, but we did trade. More of us speak the Common Tongue than elves of other clans. Our neighboring clan, the Lirmue, have only a few members who speak it." He held up a bow. "Try this bow, Alistair. It's made for a human." He handed Alistair an ironbark long bow.
Zevran gave an approving huff of breath.
"It's magnificent," Alistair said after pulling on the bowstring. "Light, a smooth pull, a comfortable hand hold…."
Finian held up a second bow, a pair to the one Alistair held. "Melys had me make these as gifts for her parents. I think they should now go to you and her."
Alistair held up his hands. "That should be her decision."
Finian smiled. "She already told me that one should go to you. She'll use the other until she can give it to her mother. One day, perhaps, she can retrieve her own from her home. Or I will replace it."
Alistair rubbed his hands along the bow. At either side of the grip he recognized laurel branches curving along the limbs. Animal faces peeked out between the leaves. "It's magnificent. More bow than I deserve."
"Melys thinks differently. You can practice while you're here. We have a range set up on the edge of camp; we can set up a competition. Melys and Adaia both shoot well." Finian looked at Zevran.
"Ah, do not include me, my friend. My skills lie elsewhere. Blades, poisons, persuasion, but not bows."
"Then you should spend time with my bond mate. You, Ariel and Melys can exchange knowledge. Ariel is a healer, but well versed in poisons too."
Zevran grinned. "That I shall enjoy. I might also enjoy watching the competition." He wiggled his eyebrows at Alistair who blushed, as if on command.
Finian looked between the two men, while Alistair just smiled and shook his head. "Don't even ask, Finian. He just does it to make me blush."
Finian chuckled. "And apparently he succeeds?" He nodded towards his aravel. "Let's go see if dinner is ready."
o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o
Alistair ducked to enter Keeper Lilia's aravel. He was not sure why the keeper wanted him to speak with her inside. Is it to ensure privacy? Or just her custom? Her first, Vaniden, set two cups of tea on a small table, as he took a seat on the bench extending along one side of the aravel. Vaniden then left to join Sarae, Keeper Lilia's second, outside. The keeper sat on a stool facing him across the table. She spoke a few words in Dalish and waved her hand.
"Meeting inside makes our conversation more private, warden."
"You set a ward."
The keeper tilted her head. "I did. A ward of privacy, but how could you know that?"
"I felt the magic. I…," he took a deep breath, "I was trained as a templar, before I became a warden. I only trained, I did not take vows, but I have some of the skills."
"You are a man of many qualities. I understand Melys' love for you better now. The son of nobility, trained as a warrior and a templar, now a warden and…" she smiled. "Your mother…was she elven?"
He closed his eyes. "Mel said you might know when she told me. I haven't come to terms with it yet, but yes, I am elf-blooded." He held the keeper's gaze as he added, "and she was, maybe is, a mage. You know my father's name?"
The keeper shook her head. "No, only that he was noble and did not acknowledge you. Something we Dalish do not completely understand. All our children are…precious. As you are to Melys." She smiled as he flushed. "Ah, as I said a man of many qualities. And you love Melys."
"In every way a man can love a woman," he said softly.
"Good. I see you are good for each other. But that is not why you asked to speak with me."
"No. I have treaties, Warden Treaties, which ensure the Dalish will come to the aid of the Grey Wardens in times of Blight." He handed her the Dalish Treaty.
"These are ancient, Warden. And they do indeed compel our aid. What is it you want from me, other than the support of our small clan?"
"Directions. Introductions. I understand the larger clans stay in the Brecilian Forest. We need to visit and gain their support, too. I ask that you help us do that. Mel believes you have influence with the other clans."
The keeper nodded. "I can provide directions to spots where the clans will find you. I can also send messages telling them to expect you and what you will ask of them. I do, indeed, have some influence. Such messages, warning of your coming, will keep you safe." She sipped her tea. "There is something more?"
"I ask this next thing, not as a warden, but as Mel's friend. Another force, a group of mercenaries and Grey Wardens, will move on Highever to recapture it. I wondered if some of your hunters and scouts might aid them. They're led by Mel's friend Philippa Broughten and, well," he took another breath, "the son of the man who attacked Highever and holds it."
"The ones who brought you here? They camp in the old ruins on the monastery island."
"Yes, them. Mel's mother sent them. They're friends."
"And the man's name?"
"Nate. Nathaniel. He's…his father tried to kill him too. He's been living in Nevarra under another name. He wants to see that his father…he wants justice. For Philippa, his betrothed. For his family. For Mel and the Teyrna."
"You return to him?"
"Yes, we'll see him before we head south
."
"I will send Fenriel to make arrangements. We will help. It is our land too – we would like to return to our clan's camp."
"Keeper, what about the other clan, the Lirmue?"
"We will meet with Keeper Anthea, Warden Alistair, but let me speak with her first. They do not welcome humans easily. The treaty will convince her. And she can tell you of the darkspawn they've sighted on the mainland and the larger island."
"We feared they'd found their way here. Mel said there are many dwarven ruins."
"Not on this island, so we believe we are safe, but yes, on the other island and the mainland. Give me a day, then we will meet with the Lirmue."
Alistair drained his tea.
Keeper Lilia laughed softly as he placed it on the table. "Am I so intimidating?"
Alistair flushed, eyes widening. "No, I…it's…I've never done this before. The task is intimidating."
"And you are very young to have this responsibility. Take heart. You handle it well. And you have good friends to help you."
"That I do." He smiled. "Keeper, I have another, personal, request. Is there some ceremony to promise a couple to each other? Not a marriage, or, well you call it bonding, right?"
"For you and Melys?"
"Yes. We promised ourselves to each other many years ago. Then, well, her family betrothed her to another. She believes she broke her vow to me. I don't see it that way, but I think another ceremony would make her feel better."
"There is a promise ceremony. We don't use it often. Sometimes it's done at Arlathven, when two people choose not to bond immediately for some reason. They return to their own clan for a time and come together later at one clan's encampment or the other to bond."
"Arlathven?"
"Ah…our gathering of clans every ten years. Many bondings occur during the gathering between members of different clans. Sometimes, as I said, the bonding is put off and completed later."
"That sounds perfect. What must I do?"
"Promise to love and care for her, always."
"That's almost too easy, Keeper."
Lilia smiled. "A good answer, lethallin; I'll arrange it. My second, Sarae can assist you in getting ready. She's familiar with the ritual. Will you speak with Melys?"
"I will."
"Speak with Finian too. Rather than a bonding rope, which is more permanent, rings are exchanged. He can make them, if you wish. And Warden, know that you do far better than you realize. You will face many obstacles, but do not doubt your talents. You can overcome them."
o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o
"I can't believe you did that." Kai had come up behind Alistair, where he stood next to his tent.
Alistair whirled around, surprised at the comment, half-expecting to find an angry Kailian. Instead she threw her arms around his waist and hugged him.
"Alistair, that was perfect. The Teyrna wasn't here, but Mel had her second family around her. The ceremony was lovely. The rings were perfect. She's happy. You did that."
"Thank you. I'm happy too." He grinned. "The others, they think it's good too?"
"Melys is loved here. Everyone wants to see her happy." She grinned. "And they like you too, shem."
"How about you?"
"I just hugged you. I haven't gotten that close to a human man in years. Not even Fergus, and I like Fergus."
"I'm blushing, right?" Alistair whispered.
"Yep."
"Let's not tell the assassin about this."
Kai giggled. "Alistair, he's sitting right over there"
"Right. So he saw you hug me. Not too worried."
Kai chuckled. "Seriously Alistair, keep making her happy." She touched his arm. "Making her happy makes you happy, I think."
"More than you know." He frowned. "We will fight sometimes."
"I know. And she can be annoying and stubborn," she tilted her head, narrowing her eyes, "as can you, I suspect, but you will work it out. In spite of all that's happened, she is happy. Do not doubt that it is because of you."
"Of us, Kai. I'll take some credit, but you and Zev must too. And Finian, Ariel and Sarae. And Nate and Pippa. She's not alone, anymore."
"And neither are you, Alistair."
He grinned. "It's a good feeling. One I haven't had in a long time."
o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o
Mel twisted the promise ring, a band of ironbark carved to look like a miniature laurel branch. It echoed the silver one she wore on the chain around her neck and matched the wider ironbark one Alistair wore on his left hand. She heard him talking quietly with Kai, but could not make out the words. She couldn't see them from where she sat, inside the tent, but she could see Zev, who sat by the fire sipping a cup of Finian's mead and chatting with the Dalish bowyer. A letter to her mother lay folded and sealed beside her. She would leave it with Nate to send to Cumberland.
Alistair, Sarae and Kai had conspired to make the promise ceremony a surprise. Ariel had taken her out to search for plants to give them time to prepare. On her return, Kai and Sarae had taken her to the bathing pool, where they spent the late afternoon talking, laughing and washing each other hair. On their return, Sarae had presented her with a new deerskin vest, finely worked with embroidery, which she now knew must have been Sarae's own. Worn over her own fine wool gown, it made a pretty outfit, but raised her suspicions that something was going on. Alistair confirmed her suspicions when he appeared at the aravel door to escort her. She recalled her confused surprise.
What's going on? Shep? You have a flower collar! She heard Kai giggle behind her and felt a wreath of flowers being placed on her own head. Ali?
I wanted to formalize our promises to each other.
Mel's eyes had widened. He took her hand and they fell into a small procession behind Kai and Sarae. Ariel, Finian, Darae, Zevran and a few other close friends surrounded the Fenhariel camp's fire. Keeper Lilia stood at their center. The ceremony itself was short. Keeper Lilia confirmed their intent to bond, asked them to affirm their love for each other and exchange rings as tokens of their promises. Unlike a bonding ceremony, where a rope or band of cloth physically bound the couple, the rings signified intent.
The rest of the evening was taken up by food, drink, dancing and storytelling. Particularly stories about Alistair and Mel. Mel stuck to fond recollections of good times in Redcliffe and Highever. Alistair mostly did the same, but did tell his tale of leading Mel through a series of caves infested with spiders, much to her mock dismay.
Sitting on her bedroll, legs crossed, leaning against Shep, she sighed and smiled. I know we must leave tomorrow, but this has been such a welcome respite. After tonight, Ali and I know we'll work through any differences. And we'll stop at the Wrath camp before we truly resume our travel to Redcliffe. I almost feel hopeful. Finding friends and allies makes it easier to forget my doubts.
A/N:Thank you for reading. If you have time, please review. I appreciate all followers, favorites, kudos and comments.
Thanks to my wonderful betas Kira Tamarion and Elyssa Cousland whose efforts make this a better story. Any remaining errors are mine.
Thanks for the reviews and comments. ChaoticHarmony1991,SnowHelm,clafount,dustywalker, ClairBrink, Pervinca T and Mike3207. Thanks to those who favorited, followed and gave kudos. I hope you continue to read and enjoy.
