Chapter 38

Teagan opened his eyes and looked at Madeline sleeping beside him. The estate was quiet when they had returned from the reception. He swept her into his arms, and kissed her before carrying her upstairs. They made love then fell into a blissful sleep. The last thing he remembered before closing his eyes was hearing Madeline's sweet sigh as she stretched an arm across his chest.

"Enjoy your time with Madeline dear Brother but do not consider this over with."

Teagan sat up. His brother's words haunted him and he had no doubt it wouldn't be over with. Eamon was used to getting his way. Years of being his brother's errand boy have prepared him for this. Glancing at Madeline, he felt his anger come to the surface. His brother thought she was merely a fling, and that he was having this dalliance as a way of bringing her closer to Alistair. It was disgusting that Eamon could even think he would hurt Madeline that way and to have him compare his relationship to her with his joke of a marriage with Isolde offended him.

As much as it hurt to realize he would likely lose his brother over this, he also didn't care because Eamon has not been a brother to him for years. He would have Madeline and they would have their own family and that's all that mattered.

A part of him wanted to reveal his brother's plan to her and get it out in the open but he just couldn't do it. Insecurity dogged him and he resented his brother for figuring him out. Of course Eamon would make it a point of knowing his weaknesses. It was a trick he used in getting what he wanted. He shouldn't even be surprised that Eamon would do this to him as well.

He hated feeling jealous when watching Madeline dance with some of the eligible noblemen last night and could not deny how seeing her with Alistair bothered him the most. The way Alistair smiled as he danced with her; he had that same smile when he was with Elissa.

"What is wrong with me?"

Madeline was lying right beside him and he was worried about Alistair taking her away. It was the first time he realized there was just as much agony as there was ecstasy when you love someone so deeply.

"Teagan."

He turned in time to see her yawn as she wrapped herself in the covers.

"I'm sorry for waking you," Teagan put an arm around her as she scooted close to him.

"It's alright," Madeline reached over and kissed him. "I just thought it was time to get up."

"We have a few more hours," Teagan laid back against the pillows as Madeline snuggled against him.

"It was a wonderful night," Madeline sighed.

"Yes it was. I don't recall the last time I saw Sighard look so happy and Natasha looked beautiful."

"It was interesting mingling with the other nobles."

"And dancing with them," Teagan teased.

"I told them my heart was spoken for," Madeline kissed Teagan's chest.

"I suppose I can't blame them, you were the most beautiful woman there."

"You flatterer," Madeline laughed.

"Well you were," Teagan pulled her close to him.

"So what do you want to do once we get up?"

"I was thinking we could have a quiet day to ourselves."

"Sounds like a wonderful idea," Madeline closed her eyes. "I was thinking since your brother is back, you'd be wanting to get together with him to catch up. Did you tell him about us?"

"My brother?" Teagan opened his eyes and tried to mask the bitterness in his voice. "He knows but being the chancellor has left little room or time to share any sentiment. I'm sure he wishes us well…in his own way and I doubt we'll be seeing him much at the moment. He'll want to get back to his routine after being away for so long."

"You know Teagan I'm certainly glad you don't take after him. Sure duty is important but life was meant to be enjoyed."
"You don't ever have to worry because that is something that will never happen," Teagan put his arm around her.

"Good to know," Madeline yawned.

Teagan stroked her cheek, watching her fall asleep before closing his eyes.

….

"Eamon, I don't want to hear it," Alistair slammed the fork down on the table. "Madeline and I are friends. "That's it! For the love of the Maker! He's your brother! Don't you want him to be happy?"

"I do want him to be happy, but I don't think Madeline is the right match for him."
"And what do you want me to do?" Alistair laughed. "Issue a decree that Teagan end his relationship with Madeline? Do I lock her in the tower and force her to stay there until she declares her undying love to me?"

"It was quite obvious you like her. I saw the way you watched them dance."

"I care for Madeline…as a friend," Alistair said exasperatedly as he tried to butter his bread. "Teagan has also been good to me. I've heard nothing but great reports coming from Redcliffe as well as Rainesfere. He's worked hard. I'm not going to deny him his chance at happiness and neither should you."

"Yes," Eamon sighed. "My brother knows how to rule and he knows how to pick competent people to delegate responsibility to. He can also have any woman he desires. You and Madeline would be a perfect match."

"Why? Because she is Elissa's sister?"

"Bryce Cousland was highly regarded. Even Empress Celene respected him. With Fergus rebuilding Highever its fitting that his long lost sister become queen. The fact that she survived the odds makes for a romantic story that would captivate the people. Uniting the Cousland-Theirin families could usher a new era, a new dynasty."

"Eamon, I care for Madeline as a friend. She has endured a great deal in her life but she's with Teagan. I am not going to infringe on their happiness. I suggest you accept that. I will find someone suitable to continue the line."

"Yes…your Majesty," Eamon got up from his chair. "If you will excuse me, I have lost my appetite. Remember we have that meeting in two hours."

"Eamon, I was on time for every meeting while you were at Gwaren, and I'll make it for this one."

Alistair let out a sigh and continued to eat before pushing his plate away as Wynne sat beside him.

"For what it's worth Alistair I am proud of you for asserting yourself."

"Sure I said my peace but there is this part of me that…" Alistair paused and looked at Wynne. "I like Madeline…more than I should like her and I hate myself for feeling this way."

"She's not Elissa Alistair," Wynne reached for his hand.

"I know that but Madeline has given me a connection to her that I thought was lost forever. She's also nice and is one of only a few people that don't expect anything from me. Do you know how refreshing it is to be treated like a regular person?"

"I know it has not been easy," Wynne said gently.

"No. It hasn't. And do you think I want to feel this way? I like Teagan. He's been good to me and I want Madeline to be happy but I like having her in my life."

"There is nothing wrong with you having a friendship with her but she loves Teagan."

"I'm going to tell you two thing now and I hope you understand Wynne," Alistair wiped his face with his napkin and stood up.

"You know you can tell me anything."

"If I am not married within three years, I intend to abdicate the throne and rejoin the Wardens," Alistair paced before Wynne. "I've made some…inquiries with the Warden Commander in Amaranthine and he said I would be welcomed back anytime."

"I see." Wynne set her cup down and looked up. "And what else did you want to tell me?"

"I'm happy for Teagan but if I ever hear that he has hurt Madeline in any way, I will not hesitate to go after her."

Wynne pushed her plate aside and watched as he turned and left the dining room.

…

Eamon lurked quietly by the doorway watching Alistair trudge down the corridor. Having overheard the last part his conversation with Wynne, Eamon smiled before walking away.

"The spark is there," He chuckled.

Watching Isolde come out of their quarters he grinned as she waked towards him.

"Husband," Isolde bowed he head.

"Isolde love, I need you to do something for me and its something I know you can handle."

"Of…course Eamon," Isolde looked up at him in amazement.

Eamon took her arm and led her back into their quarters, "The next time you see Madeline. I want her to realize that my brother is not the perfect man as he appears."

"I can definitely do that," Isolde nodded eagerly.

"She's grown up so sheltered, and while my brother may have good intentions, Madeline would be much better off with the king."

"Teagan should have never gotten involved with her," Isolde huffed. "It's disgraceful."

"I'm glad you agree my dear," Eamon smiled. "And I trust you to do this task for me. Alistair told me since Madeline gave up the bannorn, she is assisting Fergus with coordinating the rebuilding of his estate here as well as other business. You should… stop by. And when you're chatting with her I need you to mention Teagan once having an account at that brothel. Some seeds of doubt need to be sewn."

"I'll do my best husband," Isolde promised.

"I know you will," Eamon kissed her on the forehead before heading out of the room.

…..

Madeline knelt on the ground beside the groundskeeper and they cheerily planted flowers and chatted.

"This courtyard is going to look so beautiful when it's done."

"Indeed it will my lady," Ivan smiled as he filled in the hole. "Thanks to you, the entire estate no longer looks like a mausoleum."

"All of you have been a great help," Madeline smiled and got up, heading to the basin of water to rinse her hands.

"Excuse me Maddie…I mean Lady Madeline. You have...a visitor in the main hall."

Madeline turned to see Soris standing on the path bearing an expression that conveyed both awkwardness and irritation.

"I wasn't expecting anyone or any more deliveries today."

"It's Lady Isolde, Lady Madeline."

"Isolde?" Madeline frowned. "I wonder what she wants. Thank you Soris. Please excuse me Ivan."

"Of course my lady," Ivan nodded. "I'll finish planting the rest of these."

"Thank you," Madeline wiped her hands on a cloth. "I'm just sorry we got interrupted."

…

Madeline forced a smile as she watched Isolde scrutinize the hall. "Hello Isolde," Madeline silently thanked her aunt for teaching her the ability to feign graciousness.

"Madeline!" Isolde turned and rushed to her. "It's been a long time since we had a chat. I have heard how you stepped down from the bannorn in order to help your brother and wanted to see how you were doing."

"Thank you Isolde," Madeline led her to a bench where they sat down. "As you can see things are coming along rather well. I also have a wonderful staff and they have helped me along the way."

"I see you have employed an elven butler," Isolde remarked as she watched Soris directed the housekeeper. "I hope that is working out for you."

"Soris is an excellent butler and so are all the other servants I employed for my brother," Madeline looked away.

"I'm sure they are. In Orlais the nobility tend to prefer elves as they are easier to handle."

"I don't have to handle them; they are doing a spectacular job on their own."

"I'm sure they are," Isolde said as looked at the portrait over the fireplace. "I think it's wonderful you are remembering your sister with that portrait of her and Fergus."

"That is not Elissa. Fergus and I sat for Byron when we first met."

"I just assumed that your brother would want to honor her and the family," Isolde said as she played with the bracelet on her wrist.

"My brother…we have honored them by the memorial garden at Highever Castle. Fergus said he wants to move forward. He wanted this portrait to symbolize the future."

"I see. Does he plan to remarry eventually?"

"I presume he will when he's ready," Madeline looked away.

"So what does Fergus think of your courtship…with Teagan?" Isolde looked at Madeline.

"My brother is happy for us Isolde," Madeline smiled.

"You will have to move to Redcliffe once you're married; wouldn't that be difficult considering you have not known each other long?"

"Teagan and I are not planning to marry right off and it's not like Fergus and I will never see each other again."

"Redcliffe is so uncultured Madeline, I hope a person of your grace and intelligence will be able to handle living there."

"Actually, it does not sound much different than Harpers Ford. I am looking forward to moving there with Teagan."

"And speaking of Teagan; Eamon and I had almost given up hope that he would ever marry. He seemed to enjoy reveling in his wild ways."

"A lot of men are that way before they're married," Madeline replied. "It's not out of the ordinary."

"I….suppose but Teagan…used to have a habit of…" Isolde paused. "He used to frequent…that brothel here."

Isolde looked at Madeline as if she was waiting for some big response.

"I didn't know Teagan back then so I could care less at what type of establishments he visited. And there are no laws in Ferelden that outlaw brothels. They pay their taxes and fulfill a service."

"I suppose…" Isolde's eyes glared briefly before she looked away. "I just thought being so young, you should be aware…"

"There is an age difference between you and Eamon as well," Madeline chuckled.

"I love Eamon but because of the difference in our ages, it has not always been easy."

"Well it has never been an issue with Teagan. We talk all the time; we play cards, and genuinely enjoy each other's company. We have similar dreams on how we want to share our life together. I presume it's the same with you and Eamon."

"Um…yes," Isolde coughed. "I just don't want to see you make some of the same mistakes I have made. I was so young and innocent back then."

"Isolde, I am twenty two years old and I think you need to be made aware of my upbringing," Madeline got up from the bench and folded her arms. "My aunt survived the rebellion by being a courtesan as well as a spy. She served two prominent Orlesian generals."

"Your aunt was a…" Isolde eyes widened in horror.

"Yes my aunt was a whore and she survived because of that. I mean no offense to your people but there are documented cases of Orlesian soldiers raping and massacring families. Aunt Lydia did what she had to do to survive. She killed those men and helped resupply the rebellion. That was her contribution to freeing Ferelden. Her stubbornness and will helped me to become what I am today."

"You should be aware that a lot of us did not like what was happening," Isolde's eyes flared. "Many of us thought the military regime went too far."

"I know that," Madeline agreed. "But there weren't enough of you to help the cause. My aunt was also friends with several Orlesian expatriates and a couple of them trained me. Do you have any training Isolde?"

"Me?" Isolde laughed nervously. "My family was more… traditional."

"I see," Madeline nodded. "I only asked because my Aunt Lydia did encounter some very compassionate female chevaliers during the rebellion."

"Some families do let their daughters become chevalier while some subscribe to tradition," Isolde explained. "Seeing how articulate you are, your aunt obviously had you educated beyond your battle training."

"Yes," Madeline smiled. "I was taught Literature, art, history, botany as well as everything in between."

"How is your limp?" Isolde asked. "Didn't all that dancing at Sighard's reception affect you?"

"No not all, Teagan and I had a wonderful time at Sighard and Natasha's reception and she looked absolutely beautiful. I'm sorry you weren't there."

"I had a previous commitment," Isolde explained.

"I see," Madeline tightened her lips to keep from smirking. "Isolde would you like some tea? You must excuse my manners. It's just been so hectic around here getting everything ready for my brother."

"I understand," Isolde nodded. "I see by the dirt on your skirt, you've been planting the courtyard. Don't you have somebody for that?"

"Actually I do but I enjoy gardening. It fills me with a sense of peace."

"You did some work at the courtyard at the estate for Teagan as well. I had all the removed. I thought it was too much trouble."

"Teagan wanted some memories of his childhood and it was my pleasure to give that to him. The Maker gave us this entire beautiful world and it is my belief we should be stewards for what He has given us."

"Do you ever attend the services here?"

"I will when the mood strikes. My Aunt made sure I had religious studies growing up but she let me choose how I want to believe. I would rather sit on the ground tending to the world the Maker gave us then spend two hours on a bench listening to a sermon."

"You are a lot like your sister," Isolde stood up and smoothed her skirt down.

"Is that a bad thing or good thing?" Madeline chuckled.

"You sister always had an answer for everything."

"And that likely helped her to save your son," Madeline smiled.

"Excuse me Lady Madeline."

Madeline turned to see Ser Mallory standing in the doorway, "Is there a problem?"

" There are some papers that need signed and sent back to Highever to your brother," Ser Mallory held up some papers. "It has to do with that trade agreement."

"Of course," Madeline looked Isolde. "I'm sorry to cut this chat short."

"It's alright. I understand. I'll let myself out," Isolde gave a quick bow. "It was good to see you."

"Likewise," Madeline curtsied.

Madeline stood beside Ser Mallory and they watched as Isolde left the room.

"Thank you," Madeline said as she heard the main door close. "You saved me Ser Mallory."

"You're welcome my lady. Soris told me you looked annoyed," Ser Mallory laughed. "I used to remember my mother doing something similar when she was tired of being hounded by relatives coming by unannounced." "Well thank you again and I will make sure I give my thanks to Soris as well," Madeline shook her head. "I can't believe the nerve of that woman."

"I'm glad I could help," Ser Mallory smiled.

"I think I'm going to call it a day," Madeline wiped her hands. "I'll see you tomorrow."

"Of course my lady," Ser Mallory bowed.

Madeline grabbed her cloak from the table and hurried out the door.

…

Teagan smiled when seeing Madeline come in the room, "You're early today. Supper is not for a couple of hours."

"I'm early because Isolde's surprise visit tired me out," Madeline kissed Teagan and sat down on the settee.

"Isolde," Teagan raised a brow and sat down beside her. "What in the blazes did she want?"

"I honestly don't know Teagan," Madeline rested her against his shoulder as he put his arm around her. "It almost felt like she was…fishing for information. She asked me about you and what we had in common, and mentioned that you used to visit brothels and looked disappointed when I told her I didn't care."

Teagan's face flushed in anger. It was obvious Isolde's visit was because of his brother.

"Its…true what Isolde said; I used to do that. I stopped frequenting The Pearl several months before Cailan started to rally Ferelden about the Blight though. I just grew tired of it. It's not something I'm proud of but it was not her place to tell you that."

"Teagan," Madeline climbed on his lap and put her arms around him. "I don't care what you did in your past. I didn't know you then. You also have forgotten that I was raised by a former courtesan spy. And Aunt Lydia once told me that people should be more concerned about the married men who frequented brothels in secret because they are the ones who harbor the most secrets."

"How did I get so lucky to have you in my life?" Teagan sighed then kissed Madeline.

"What people do with their lives is their business," Madeline traced circles on his chin. "The only time I speak up is when someone's actions affect everyone around them."

"I'm sorry you had to deal with Isolde today," Teagan brushed the hair out of her face.

"She even lied to me," Madeline exclaimed. "Isolde told me that she had a previous commitment and that was why she did not attend Sighard and Natasha's wedding. As much as I wanted to say something, I didn't."

"What else did she talk about?"

"She asked about my life in Harpers, how I was educated, and mentioned how marriage is not always easy. And she made a remark about I was like my sister and that she always had an answer for everything."

"Your sister was not very fond of Isolde," Teagan remembered. "And it's obvious she's very jealous of our relationship."

"I really don't like her Teagan. I'll be polite when I see her but when the time comes for us to marry, she is not going to be invited."

"Don't worry love; you won't have to worry about that."

"Good," Madeline sighed. "She radiates…misery and I'd like to avoid that as much as possible. You know that portrait of Fergus and me? She thought that was my sister. It didn't occur to her that my brother wanted a memory of us."

"Isolde is not known for her tact," Teagan kissed her cheek.

"Obviously," Madeline grumbled.

"I hate to do this now but I have to run out for a bit so why don't you have your bath and when I return, we'll have supper."

"Alright," Madeline smiled as she got up, "Don't be too long."

"I won't," Teagan promised.

Teagan watched her go up the stairs before grabbing his coat.

….

Eamon looked up from his book as the door flew open and Isolde gasped.

"Hello brother," Teagan walked in the room.

"I was expecting you," Eamon stood up.

Teagan looked over at Isolde and enjoyed seeing the startled look on her face.

"Get out," He growled.

"Teagan, you are in the palace. You best watch your tone," Eamon warned.

"What are you going to do?" Teagan laughed. "Have me thrown in the dungeon?"

"Leave us Isolde," Eamon ordered.

"Yes," Teagan agreed. "Go pray or something."
Glaring, Isolde got up from her chair and left the room. Teagan shut the door and walked back to his brother.

"So I take it this is about the visit Isolde made to Madeline," Eamon sat down on his chair.

"You had that shrew you call a wife visit Madeline to get information and to try to plant seeds of doubt," Teagan accused. "Your plan failed brother. The only thing it did do was annoy Madeline."

"You only won this battle Teagan but you will not win the war."

"I've already won Eamon. Madeline loves me and that's all that matters. We're going to have a future together and there's nothing you can do about it."

"You say you love Madeline but you have still kept this from her. If you are so secure about the love you share, tell her." Eamon looked at Teagan. "But you won't because you are afraid it would draw her to Alistair. I bet every time she sees Alistair it eats you up inside. You are your own worst enemy Teagan."

"I have no issue with Madeline being a friend to Alistair," Teagan retorted. "He provides a connection to her sister. She deserves that after her family cast her away."

"Always so…noble," Eamon poured a drink and set it down. "Some of the ladies at the Pearl still remember that dashing charm you…possess."

"Still have your fetish for elven women brother?" Teagan folded his arms. "I wonder how Isolde would react if she knew of your particular habit."

"There no point of going down that road Teagan," Eamon laughed. "She'd never believe you."

"So why aren't you hovering around Alistair like you usually do?" Teagan took the crystal decanter and defiantly drunk from it before setting it down.

"Alistair is dining with the Wardens tonight at the compound."

"It's nice to see you loosen the strings on him," Teagan scoffed.

"Contrary to what you think Teagan; I do not control Alistair. I just keep him on the right path."

"You mean your path," Teagan spat.

"Believe what you want. I only want the best for Alistair. He's been through a lot and a great deal of it could have been avoided."

"And that's partly due to your actions! You could have stopped Isolde but you didn't. Elissa is gone. Having Alistair chasing a ghost is not helping him its only benefiting you."

Teagan turned to leave the room but paused and looked back at Eamon.

"If Isolde makes anymore…unannounced visits, I will be sure to tell Madeline of all the things she did to Alistair before you sent him to the chantry."

"You wouldn't dare embarrass the family," Eamon glared.

"Are you sure about that?" Teagan laughed and left the room.

"I'm sorry it's come to this," Eamon sighed.

Leaving the room, Eamon grabbed the letter and headed out the door.

"Ser Kenley," Eamon called.

The young knight turned and bowed, "Yes Chancellor? Is there something I can do for you?"

"Can you make certain this letter gets to the royal messengers? I need this letter sent to Redcliffe as soon as possible."

"The messengers will be here tomorrow to pick up all correspondence. I'll make sure it gets in the stack."

"Thank you. I have some boxes at Redcliffe that need to be sent here."

"I'll put it on the top of the stack."

"I appreciate it," Eamon smiled as he turned to go back to his study.

…..